Advancing Access to Mountain Biking in Bristol — March Bonus Episode

The March issue of Parks & Recreation magazine is out now, and
on today’s bonus episode of the podcast we’re diving deeper into
one of this month’s feature stories, titled, “Blazing a Trail in
Bristol, Connecticut.” The story highlights a mountain bike pump
track in Bristol that became a reality thanks to the advocacy of
community members, buy-in from the local park and recreation
department, and funding from NRPA’s Youth Sports and Play grant.

I’m thrilled to be joined today by some key players in this
project that is helping provide increased access to recreational
opportunities – joining me are Dr. Josh Medeiros, an NRPA board
member and the superintendent of Bristol Parks, Recreation, Youth
and Community Services; Brian Archibald, a teacher and member of
the Bristol community and founder of Bike Bristol; and Brian’s
son, Lance, who is an avid mountain biker.


Tune in to the full episode below to learn the inspiration behind
this project, how it came to fruition, and how the bike pump
track is advancing equitable access to mountain biking in
Bristol. You’ll also learn:


How mountain biking provided Lance an opportunity to find his
“thing” when traditional team sports did not interest him

The importance of bringing youth to the decision-making table
and listening to their voices

The importance of listening to community members and saying
“yes” when you can

What challenges arose due to COVID-19 and how NRPA’s Youth
Sports and Play grant helped make the track a reality

How a space like a bike pump track is benefitting the broader
community, and much more!