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Berkshire Bike Path Council
June 2009 Update
10 Years and Riding Forward
What better way to celebrate 10 years of the Berkshire Bike Path Council's commitment to building a bike path from Vermont to Connecticut than the completion of the a countywide Implementation Plan that includes the official support of eleven communities. Our work to cultivate an interested contingency in every community, continually advocating for and supporting bike path efforts and collaborating effectively with community groups has made this accomplishment possible. The BBPC Board is to be commended our their steadfast determination and years of service, many for the full 10 years. (The completed implementation plan will be posted on web page after July 1).
Increasing numbers of people are participating in group road rides, and commuting to work or daily activities. Towns are adding signage, developing bike route maps and exploring safe routes to schools. This month's newsletter will report on these activities and offer ways for you to get more involved in supporting cycling and bike path efforts in Berkshire County. We made it easy for you to volunteer online. We also recommend that you check the web page for updates on local meetings in your area.
Our future progress depends on you. Pass this newsletter on to your friends, we need their help and energy to continue for the next 10 years.
Marge Cohan
Marge Cohan President, Berkshire Bike Path Council |
Spotlight on
Join us for Summer Fun
Farnum's Challenge - Sunday July 19th 10:00 - at Farnum's Crossing
The 7th annual triathlon on the Ashuwillticook trail will provide an opportunity for athletes, both with or without disabilities, to participate together in running (or rolling), cycling and canoeing. Volunteers are needed on teams, to direct traffic, ensure water safety and, of course, set up and clean up. To learn more go to berkshirebikepath.com.
DCR Universal Accessible will be on the Ashuwillticook - Berkshire Bike and Boat Day - Saturday, August 8 10am - 4pm At Farnum's Crossing
Try out a variety of adaptive cycles on the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, then kayak on scenic reservoirs. Bring your lunch and enjoy this free day in one of the most beautiful spots in the whole state. For further information and to pre-register, call All Out Adventures at 413-527-8980.
Barriers to Bike Path Conference - Thursday Sept 10, 4-6 PM - Red Lion Inn, Stockbridge
The Upper Housatonic Heritage in coordination with BBPC, Berkshire Regional Planning Commission and National Park Service is planning a workshop to support local efforts to build bike paths. Free and open to everyone - please save the date. More information to follow.
Housatonic Heritage Walks, Hikes. . . - Sept 19, 20, Oct 3 and 4
. . .And now bikes - Save these dates - learn more about Housatonic Hertiage here. More information to follow.
Everyone is enjoying the trail!
The flowers are beautiful in June
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Bike Path Progress Report
Williamstown/North Adams
Milone and MacBroom, Inc, of Cheshire CT have been selected as the consultant firm for the North County project. They hit the ground runningJune 1st with Lauren Gaherty, senior planner for Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, when she handed over maps and materials to the consultant. She and Tim Kaiser from Williamstown spent the day with the consultants, doing field work and documenting current conditions. The firm is scheduled to work intensively this summer and produce preliminary designs and cost estimates for final design and construction by Sept 15th.
Public meetings with neighbors along the route will occur this summer. Volunteers are need to help make these meetings inclusive and effective. To get involved email Lgaherty@berkshireplanning.org
Adams
The extension of the Ashuwillticook Trail to the industrial park has met some design challenges but is progressing forward. Good news - a farmer adjacent to the terminus is very interested in getting involved in seeing the path move closer to North Adams. Hopefully public hearings will be held this summer. Watch berkshirebikepath.com for dates. Pittsfield
The City of Pittsfield, received an honorable mention designation as Bike Friendly City from the League of American Bicyclist (LAB). Mayor Ruberto declared June 1-5 Ride your Bike to Work Week. The event was kicked off Saturday with the Blessing of the Bikes. A bike rodeo is scheduled June 16 for Morningside Neighborhood Day from 5-8. Efforts to explore Safe Routes to School are also being initiated.
Lenox
As reported last month, Lenox is moving forward with a section of their route on Housatonic Street. They have met some challenges that will require additional design and increased expenses to meet those challenges. They will also be hold public meetings in the near future. Watch berkshirebikepath.com for dates. Lee
At the May 14th Lee Town Meeting, the Town approved a request for $50,000 to retain a consultant for the conceptual design and engineering for their bike path. Working closely with Christine Neuman, BRPC planner, the committee has identified three possible routes and expects the consultant to establish a preferred route. Here too, public meetings will be held for community input. Watch berkshirebikepath.com for dates.
Stockbridge
Working with CharlesTracy, National Park Service Rails and Trails, the Stockbridge committee has developed a map with bike routes through town. Funds for the maps and support of the event is being contributed by BBPC thru a grant from Rail to Trails.
Great Barrington
Town officials at their June meeting agreed to purchase 10 bike route signs, which will identify the best way to ride thru GB. They have also allocated funds for 12 Share the Road signs that will raise awareness of potential riders on the road.
The Great Barrington Bike Trail Committee is calling for volunteers to help with field assessment of the proposed bike path routes through Great Barrington. Join their next meeting on Friday, June 19 at 4:00 p.m. at Ira Kaplan's office (Suite 9 at The Mahaiwe Building located at 4 Castle St. near the corner of Main St.). For more information: contact Ira Kaplan or Steffen Root.
Sheffield
South County bike group welcomed Sheffield as their newest member at their May meeting. To send a bike friendly message, Sheffield will be locating a bike rack and Port-a-John in town for cyclist traveling through their community. Their committee will be identifying possible routes and would welcome new members. Contact Joe Kellogg town manager. Upcoming Meetings:
Great Barrington - Friday, June 19 at 4:00 PM - see above for more info |
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If you missed the BCA Tire Changing Clinic:
You still have a chance to learn how to change your tires:
Berkshire Bike & Board in Great Barrington is having a flat tire repair clinic Thursday, June 18, 7 PM. They plan to have clinics on the third Thursday of the month for the rest of the summer. Call to confirm (413)-528-5555.
Arcadian Shop in Lenox is having another Women's Bike Clinic on July 11. Learn about repair and maintenance, tire- changing, and drivetrain adjustments. Call them to register (413) 637-3010.
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____________________________________________________________________
Bike Shop of the Month
Berkshire Bike and Blade
29 State Road, Great Barrington, MA 01230 USA
M-F 10-7 Sat 10-5 Sun 11-5
Telephone: (413) 528-5555
10% off Anything in the Store
Excluding Bikes
Print and present this coupon, valid through 7/31/09
BBPC Newsletter ______________________________________________________
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Thank you for your continued support!
Please support our efforts to advocate for better bicycling in Berkshire County. Mail your check, made out to Berkshire Bike Path Council, 55 South Mountain Rd, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Per IRS regulations, your donation to the Berkshire Bike Path Council will be treated similarly to a donation made to a 501(c)(3) organization and will be tax deductible. | |
