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Berkshire Bike Path Council
August 2010 Update
In the 11 years that BBPC has been working to build a bike path from VT to CT, we have faced many setbacks and challenges. The Lenox Board of Selectman's decision to revise their plans at the time of construction was another one of the challenges. What have we learned ?
The importance of community participation and involvement from the beginning is key. Hearing community concerns at the front end of the project and incorporating their suggestions when possible builds support.
Local officials only hear from people who do not support the path proposed. People who support the path find it hard to believe that we repeatedly meet with opposition. Until local officials really believe there is strong support and that we will VOTE for the officials who support the path, we will not have political muscle to make this happen.
While we have data and research that answers many of the concerns raised about property values, privacy, etc, the myths and distortions are perpetuated by people who do not want the path near their home. We need to take advantage of all opportunities to publicize the correction information.
And from the Greg Federspiel, Town Manager and Jeff Vincent, Public Works Commissioner we need to learn the art of compromising. Special thanks to both of them and the Lenox citizens who have worked hard and continue to be committed to having good bike access in Lenox. Marge CohanMarge Cohan President, Berkshire Bike Path Council
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Calendar-
UPCOMING EVENTS
Thu, Aug 19 - Pittsfield Criterium
Sat, Aug 21 - Hoosic River Ride, Bennington, VT
Mon, Sep 13 - BBPC Meeting, 6PM, 1 Fenn Street, Pittsfield
The meeting will include a presentation by Berkshire Regional Planning staff on their countywide bike/ped plan.
Thu, Sep,16 - Great Barrington Bike Path Meeting,5pm,Town Hall |
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Volunteer's needed-
September User's Count on the Ashuwillticook
Trail counters are needed Tuesday, Sept 21, 7-9AM and 4-6 pm and Sat, Sept 25, 8 AM-7 PM. Counting is done in two hour shifts, at 3 locations along the trail: the Berkshire Mall, Farnum's Road in Cheshire, and Russell Field in Adams. To volunteer, please contact Ellen Downes at 413-442-1521 x23 or edownes@berkshireplanning.org In your response, please include the time and location you prefer.
Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) and the Berkshire Bike path Council (BBPC) help the Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) gather information regarding the popularity of multi-use trails state wide. The data we collect is used to advocate for greater trail development. |
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Lenox Selectman Respond to community concerns
In response to the strong wishes of abutting property owners, the Lenox Board of Selectmen is pursuing an alternative design for the proposed multi-use path along Housatonic and East Streets. Instead of a separate path with the requisite large setbacks, a more traditional sidewalk and bike lane approach will be pursued when going through residential neighborhoods. The Selectmen are re-constituting the Lenox recreational path committee in a new push to determine the definitive routing of Lenox's portion of the County's north/south path. Lenox aims to complete this effort by the first of the year and be in a position to utilize the funds allocated for the Housatonic and East Street portion, subject to MPO approval. Congressman Olver's ongoing support for a county-wide path and his recognition of matching the design standards to a particular environment are greatly appreciated. Greg Federspiel, Town Manager
Gail Cariddi, NA committee chair spreads the word at National Night Out event
The North Adams/Williamstown Bike Path committee has been busy attending community events to get the word out about their bike path plans. With our new brochures and display boards, volunteers engaged people who were not aware of the countywide bikeway vision plan. This is a great way to get more people involved in your committee and build a positive constituency. With lots of Fall events coming up, consider setting up an information table in your community. Call Marge Cohan for materials 442 5223.
BCA Saturday Ride joins GB Community Ride
The Great Barrington Bike Path Committee sponsored a community ride on Saturday, July 17 to raise awareness of bicycling in South County. The ride started in the village of Housatonic and portions of the route followed the Housatonic River with a much needed water stop at the Great Barrington Town Hall. Berkshire Cycling Association (BCA) showed support for the ride by combining its July weekend ride with the community ride. BBPC thanks all of the participants of this ride.
Riders register for Great Barrington's Community Ride
Steffen Root of Berkshire Bike and Blade gives pre-ride instructions
Riders begin from Housatonic Village
BBPC supports Berkshire Cycling Association (BCA) Criterium bicycle race on Pittsfield's August Third Thursday (8/19/2010) celebration.
The race will consist of 45 laps around a closed course in downtown Pittsfield. The Criterium is intended for professional bicycle racers and limited to 80 entries. Be sure to come to Pittsfield and watch this exciting event and look for the BBPC banner posted along the race course.
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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. | |
