IMBA Focuses on Urban Trail Access with Hot Spots Program

For Immediate Release
05-31-02
Contact: Dan Vardamis, IMBA advocacy coordinator

303-545-9011

IMBA has designated San Francisco, Cleveland and New York City as IMBA Hot Spot locations in 2002, as part of an effort to improve mountain bike access in urban areas.

Urban access is one of the most difficult challenges facing IMBA and its affiliated clubs. As cities continue to expand and open space dwindles, mountain bikers and other trail enthusiasts struggle to find convenient places to enjoy the outdoors. The IMBA Hot Spots program focuses on improving urban trail access by applying a variety of advocacy resources simultaneously.

"The Hot Spots program has two basic goals," said IMBA advocacy coordinator Dan Vardamis. "First, we're trying to improve trail access for mountain bikers and all trail visitors in urban areas. Second, we want to highlight the bicycle as an awesome way to get city residents outdoors."

The IMBA Hot Spots program concentrates on a few cities each year. IMBA provides local mountain bike groups and land managers in these cities with Subaru/IMBA Trail Care Crew visits, educational materials, management solutions and strategic advice. IMBA also works with local advocates to create National Mountain Bike Patrol Units and IMBA Sprockids Clubs. Special public events celebrate the spirit of mountain biking and build awareness of local trail access issues.

The IMBA Hot Spots program is supported by Clif Bar Inc. For more information visit IMBA's Urban Resources or call 303-545-9011.

Mountain bike clubs in each Hot Spot city will host 10 days of focused events. Detailed schedules will be forthcoming.

2002 Hot Spot Dates:

San Francisco; July 10-21, 2002

Cleveland; August 8-18, 2002

New York City; September 19-29, 2002