Resources
WiBike Community Toolkit
Developing New Trails
Bicycling in Wisconsin is a powerful economic driver. Users of bike paths, routes and trails generate significant impact across the state, with consumer spending on bicycle-related expenses estimated at $1.42 billion in 2017 and producing $83 million in state and local taxes. Access to bike trails also enhances community livability by providing safe transportation routes and enjoyable places to play, key factors in where people choose to live, work and spend time.
Why It Matters
Bicycling Drives Communities Forward
Users of bike paths, routes and trails provide a significant economic impact to Wisconsin. Consumer spending on bicycle-related expenses in Wisconsin was estimated at $1.42 billion in 2017, generating $83 million in state and local taxes. Access to bike trails plays a substantial role in providing livability benefits to communities, from safe transportation routes to enjoyable places to play – all reasons people choose to live, work and play in a certain community.
The Path to Developing New Trails
Define the Vision
Describe the future successful state once the project is complete. What is being created or changed? What needs will it address? Who will benefit from it? A clear vision is the foundation of any successful project.
Resource: Rails-to-Trails – Route of the Badger
Form a Team
Rally your champions into action. Recruit representatives from stakeholder groups. An effective team builds momentum and moves the project forward.
Engage the Community
Gain community support, including from elected officials, to make the project relevant. Establish strong working relationships with land managers and understand property master plans. Provide intentional opportunities to hear community needs and keep stakeholders informed throughout the process.
Resource: Find Your Elected Officials
Establish Roles
Define roles and responsibilities to ensure a well-managed project. Set clear expectations for future management, programming and stewardship.
Resource: Rails-to-Trails – Management Basics
Seek Funding
Develop a budget and pursue funding through public-private partnerships, grants, donations and events. Fundraising often occurs in phases throughout the project timeline and beyond.
Resource: International Mountain Bicycling Association – Trail Accelerator Grant
Plan & Design It
Consider engaging trail professionals through a request for proposal to lead planning and design. Select partners who will engage the public and land managers while ensuring the design reflects community needs and aligns with funding, phasing, permitting and long-term maintenance.
Resource: International Mountain Bicycling Association – Trail Labs
Build It
Determine a construction approach that leverages professional builders, volunteers, youth conservation corps and in-kind services. A construction manager or client representative may be needed to oversee the work.
Resource: International Mountain Bicycling Association – Trail Solutions
Maintain It
Implement the operations and maintenance plan developed during design and construction. Engage partners and volunteers to build long-term ownership and pride.
Promote It
Partner with local organizations and tourism entities to promote the trail to residents and visitors. Events and programming help drive engagement and economic impact.
Resource: Travel Wisconsin – Travel Promotion
The WiBike Community Toolkit was created by in partnership by the Office of Outdoor Recreation, the Wisconsin Bike Fed, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) and Wheel & Sprocket.
Take the First Step
