Albany cyclists just got a major infrastructure boost thanks to the initiative of a local teen. Two permanent, public-use bike repair stations were officially installed this month at Henderson Park and Grand Prairie Park, filling a long-standing gap in the city’s outdoor amenities.
The project was spearheaded by Thor Halchishick, a 17-year-old Eagle Scout candidate from Troop 100. After noticing that local riders had nowhere to perform quick repairs during rides—a service common in nearby Corvallis—Halchishick took it upon himself to pitch the idea to the Albany Parks and Recreation Department.
“My goal was to make it so local riders could stop by and easily prop up their bike for quick repairs while at the park or mid-ride,” Halchishick shared during his fundraising phase.
The community rallied quickly behind the vision. A GoFundMe campaign launched in late 2025 successfully hit its $2,100 goal within weeks, providing the full funding required to purchase and install the professional-grade equipment.
Where to Find Them:
- Henderson Park: Located downtown, this station serves riders coming off the Calapooia Street routes.
- Grand Prairie Park: Serving the southeast side of town, this location is a popular hub for families and commuters using the Periwinkle Creek bike path.
Each station features a stand to hold the bike at eye level, a heavy-duty air pump, and common tools like Allen wrenches and tire levers securely attached by stainless steel cables. Looking ahead, the city plans to integrate these locations into official digital and print park maps, making Albany a more “bike-friendly” destination for residents and visitors alike.
