(WWJ) - The Lexus Velodrome has been re-inflated and is now officially open for business after a power outage from high winds forced the facility to close in mid-December.
The massive white dome could be seen rising once again from it's spot at the corner of I-75 and Mack Ave. in Detroit. which resumed business operations on Monday, Jan. 31. Officials for the Velodrome said community activities -- such as riding, racing, skating, walking, disc golf and fitness classes -- have been scheduled and are now open to the public.
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The Velodrome is even set to host the American Cycling League in its first bike race of 2022 on Feb. 18 and 19. The "Re-Inflation Race" is being called a big "thank you" to over 100 donors and volunteers who worked tirelessly to get the venue back in business.
The structure collapsed two months ago when a power outage caused the large fans that inflate the Velodrome to fail. Officials said when the dome fell in, the fabric was able to protect much of their fitness equipment and the state-of-the-art cycling track.
"When the dome came down our first effort was to protect the track from the winter elements -- the snow, the ice, the water and, of course, to get it patched and re-inflated ASAP," said Dale Hughes, Executive Director of the Detroit Fitness Foundation which owns and operates the facility.
While the Velodrome was closed, Hughes said workers went into "restoration" mode, making repairs and improvements which benefitted the facility.
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"What we are most excited about right now is to be back to the business of offering unique fitness opportunities to everyone and getting our bike racers back onto the best venue in the nation," said Hughes.
The Velodrome is also home to the Eddie Tolan Oval - a 1/8 mile long track used for walking, running and skating; the 12,000 square foot Detroit Fit Fitness Studio; and the LV Weight Space, which features bikes and skates for first time users.
For more information regarding class schedules, please visit detroit fitness.org.