Milwaukee, Wisconsin: First Singletrack Opens
Thanks to stellar work from local mountain bikers, there is finally an authorized trail to ride in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The Whitnall Trail, located in Whitnall Park, is open to mountain bikers, hikers, joggers, cross country skiers and showshoers. The trail was designed with help from IMBA and constructed by volunteers from the Wisconsin Off Road Bicyclists Metro Mountain Bikers Chapter.
"This trail system has been a goal of ours for the past several years and is seen by us as the first step in upgrading the trail system throughout the entire county," explained Marty Weigel of the Metro Mountain Bikers.
Until very recently, Milwaukee city officials viewed mountain biking as a fringe sport. Thanks to work from the Metro Mountain Bikers, advocates were able to convince the city that mountain biking is a legitimate sport that warrants trails. Trails are built to be environmentally sustainable.
"This is another example of partnerships that enhance our park system," said County Executive Scott Walker. "Without the support of the Metro Mountain Bikers, residents would not be able to legally ride on mountain biking trails in Milwaukee County."
Key Lessons:
- Urban success story
- Partnerships are key
