Urban Feasibility and Breaking Down Barriers

Using a feasibility study from Omaha, Nebraska, USA, as a model, this session demonstrates a paradigm shift in urban planning that moves beyond traditional topography-based assessments to prioritize equity in access.

Webinar Outline
In many growing cities worldwide, trail infrastructure has historically followed the path of least resistance. This often results in robust networks in affluent areas while leaving underserved neighborhoods in "trail deserts." Using a feasibility study from Omaha, Nebraska, USA, as a model, this session demonstrates a paradigm shift in urban planning that moves beyond traditional topography-based assessments to prioritize equity in access. While many urban centers provide expansive paved networks, natural surface singletrack is often scarce or inaccessible to marginalized residents. This project identifies high-priority locations for trails and bike-optimized facilities within existing urban parks and public spaces. By focusing on neighborhoods currently lacking nature-based recreation, the initiative aims to improve public health, increase youth engagement, and foster community connectivity.

Learning Objectives:

• Apply equity-centered planning frameworks to identify and develop natural surface trail opportunities that address recreational gaps in underserved urban environments.
• Understand how to leverage modern bike amenities to support active, community-based youth programming.
• Learn techniques for involving a wide variety of stakeholders to ensure long-term community buy-in.

When: October 1, 2026 at 11AM MDT

Presented by: 
Kent McNeill, President, International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA)

Shane Wilson, trail planner, designer, and principal at Trailhaus

Hosted by American Trails as part of their Advancing Trails Webinar Series