BRIGHTON — The all-terrain-vehicle and dirt bike trail system at Richard Bong State Recreation Area is getting a much-anticipated $300,000 makeover.

Reconstruction of the seven-mile system began in September and will keep the trails closed until June, when a grand opening is planned.

“Our main goal is to have the trails open more often,” said park superintendent Laura Van Slyke, adding that improvements are also being made to increase safety and interest as well.

The three-loop system was plagued for years by standing water, which resulted in lengthy trail closures. Some riders may have enjoyed tearing through the mud and splashing through the water, but allowing such use would create costly maintenance issues.

Van Slyke said the improvements will meet the needs of those who like to ride in rough, wet conditions while respecting the resource. Special-skills areas will be located along the trails, allowing riders to take a traditional path or maneuver through water or across rocks and logs.

A skill-building area, with all of the challenges located in one place, is also being added. In addition, trails will have wider turnout areas to allow slower riders to pull aside and let faster riders pass or for multiple riders to regroup mid-trail.

The project is three years in the making. Professional trail designer John Riter was hired by the state Department of Natural Resources in 2006 to assess the system and make recommendations about how to make it more sustainable and fun.

Many of Riter’s recommendations are included in the final plan, as are suggestions from members of the Richard Bong ATV/OHM Riders Inc., an off-highway vehicle club formed to support the trails at Bong.

For example, some of the trail surface will be left untouched while the trail will be completely rerouted to higher ground in some areas.

“We are very pleased the beginner’s loop will have added mileage,” said Van Slyke. “In some areas the trail was straightened, and in other areas curves were added for increased safety or interest.”