Berkshire Bike Path Council April 2008 Update
Progress: Not Always a
Straight Line
The
Berkshire Bike Path Council is always working to advance our bikeway network in
Berkshire County. We attend meetings, study maps, organize events, seek funding,
send e-newsletters, and encourage communities to work together. We love to
walk, ride and explore new routes all over Berkshire County. All of these
diverse activities are essential to the success of our advocacy mission. Recently our efforts were recognized by a partnership grant from the
Rails to Trails Conservancy and National Park Service to support our advocacy
work. Not always a straight line, but we're getting there! ~Marge
Cohan, President,
Berkshire Bike Path Council
p.s. Help
us reach our goal of 1000 subscribers by sharing this newsletter with 2.5 of your
friends ("Forward email" link below). We just reached 400. Happy Cycling!
Spotlight: Ashuwillticook Trail in
Cheshire and Lanesborough
The southern
end of the Ashuwillticook Trail (map) begins at
the south entrance to the Berkshire Mall off Route 8 and extends north through
Lanesborough and Cheshire 11.2 miles to the center of Adams. One of four Mass Parks Rail Trails
managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), the
Ashuwillticook is widely regarded as one of the most scenic rail trails in New
England. In fact, a 2006 user survey found that 85% rated the trail's scenic
beauty as their favorite aspect, followed closely by safety (62%) and
accessibility (59%).
According
to Becky Barnes, Western Regional Trails Coordinator for DCR, "The trail is a
favorite for users of all ages, ever since its opening in 2001. For young
cyclists and those who are returning to bicycling, it's a perfect way to recreate
and enjoy the natural beauty of the Berkshires." The trail's popularity is growing:
in 2007, DCR estimated an average of over 8000 visits per month, with visitation
in July and September topping 10,000. In response, DCR is purchasing a facility
in Cheshire for trail maintenance and visitor information. Ms. Barnes added, "Keeping the Ashuwillticook
in good condition and providing visitor contact is a real challenge. I
encourage everyone to help us spruce up the trail on Park Serve Day on May 17."
(see upcoming events).
Upcoming Events
May 17, Ashuwillticook Trail Stewardship
Join volunteers on Park Serve Day,
a statewide effort sponsored by DCR to encourage park visitors to become
environmental stewards, for a variety of trail stewardship projects on the
Ashuwillticook. Contact Becky Barnes (413-499-7003) for information.
May 3, Green Living Fair
Presentations, workshops, activities for children and a vendor fair that
will demonstrate many new tools to help us make changes for
the good of the planet. Lenox Memorial Middle and High
School from 1-6 pm. Contact Susan Olshuff (413-637-2643 /saustown@aol.com) for information.
May 12-18 Southern Berkshire Bike Week
The goals of Bike Week are to educate the community that bicycles are an effective
and healthy alternative to driving; provide useful information to potential
bicycle commuters; encourage riding bikes for commuting and transportation; and
increase awareness and respect for bicyclists. For more information, including how employees and businesses
can participate in Bike-to-Work week visit BerkshireBikeAndBoard.com.
May 31, NAMI-BC "walkrunpedalpaddlehopskiporjumpathon"
Help spread awareness and raise funds to
support those in Berkshire County suffering from mental illness
and their families. Call 413-443-1466 for details. Sponsored by National Alliance on Mental Illness of Berkshire County
Ashuwillticook Etiquette: Six Tips for Safe Riding
Keep to the right while traveling and when stopping, do not block the path.
When passing, please alert others with an audible signal (voice, bell or horn).
Stop at intersections and obey all regulatory signs and pavement markings.
Use pedestrian-activated light at Route 8 Cheshire trail crossing.
Wear protective headgear (required by state law for children 16 and younger).
Please keep your children close, especially when crossing roads.
Visit Us and Pick Up Some Spring
Gear
We
welcome your support and ideas on improving bicycling in Berkshire County. We
also want you to look good out there, so check out our bikegear page for your
spring cycling wardrobe.
Coming in May: Spotlight on Lenox
For more
information, visit us at http://www.berkshirebikepath.com
