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Bike-Walk Alliance of NH ==
Franconia
Notch to Twin Mountain Bike Path Proposed
Scoping hearing held in Carroll Town Hall, May 30, 2006
The BWA-NH was represented on a ten-person panel to present options, details, and support for the proposed nine-mile bike path from the existing Franconia Notch recreational trail at the Skookumchuck trail head to Route 302 in Twin Mountain. Jim Covey, working with the local Chamber of Commerce for the past few years on this proposal, chaired the meeting and gave a PowerPoint presentation to about 60 area residents and business owners. Various private, state, and federal agencies were represented on the panel. Throughout the entire hearing, all comments and presentations were 100% behind this project.
The process of this bike path to become a reality requires several more critical steps as outlined in a letter from the US Forest Service, White Mountain National Forest Pemigewasset Ranger District. Comments during the current "Scoping" period must be submitted by July 24, 2004. For details, please visit the Forest Service web site at www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/white_mountain/ then look under "Projects and Plans." For direct access to the letter from the Forest Service and a map of the proposed path and alternatives, a PDF file may be viewed on this web site.
This proposed bike path will be designed to be "family friendly" to allow safe use by bicyclists, walkers, cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and basically all non-motorized activities, a vast improvement over the current Franconia Notch trail. In the winter season with snow cover, a small portion of the path away from Route 3 would be shared with snowmobilers. The path will serve multiple purposes for the residents of Twin Mountain and enhance the recreational opportunities for visitors. Based on current expectations, construction could start within the next 3-4 years.
Here are some photos taken at the May 30 hearing in the Carroll Town Hall. Note the many expressions of both the presenters and the audience -- plus Jim Covey's illuminated bicycle!
Tom Jameson & Jerry Moore, NH DOT Bike-Ped Office, entering Carroll Town Hall
Flat tires but a lot of lights!
Jim Covey on left, Twin Mountain bike path advocate
Like all projects relating to improved conditions for bicycling, residents and interested parties must become involved to offer support, write letters, attend meetings, and basically make your thoughts known! Public officials want to hear from you before money is spent on a project. This Franconia Notch to Twin Mountain bike path is considered to be a meaningful project that will serve both the Twin Mountain residents and the public for many decades. Check out the web site mentioned above -- and offer your support for this bike path!
