Trailnet is excited to announce two new grants supporting our work to improve walking and biking in the community in 2022. Together these grants represent $40,000 of new funding to support our mission and programs.
P. Wayne & Jane B. Goode Foundation
Trailnet received $25,000 from the P. Wayne & Jane B. Goode Foundation to support our planning, education and advocacy efforts. Wayne Goode was a former Missouri state legislator who also served the region as president of Trailnet’s board. Wayne passed away in the fall of 2020 and we appreciate the support of his family’s foundation and the lasting impact this grant offers.
U.S. Energy Foundation
Trailnet has also received a $15,000 grant from the U.S. Energy Foundation to assist the City of St. Louis with community engagement efforts. These efforts are focused on modifying streets to be safer and lower-stress for people walking and biking. This effort is in partnership with the Natural Resources Defense Council and is aimed at reducing the environmental effects of car-dependency by making walking and biking safer and more accessible.
Prop 1: Voters to weigh in on sidewalks, bike lanes and street repairs in April vote.
A $50 million bond question including funding for sidewalk improvements, bike infrastructure and street repairs is headed to voter after being approved by the City of St. Louis’ Board of Aldermen and Mayor Tishaura Jones. The bond question will go on the ballot for a Tuesday, April 5 vote.
The bond question, Proposition 1, would help pay for the backlog of infrastructure repairs and improvements that aren’t covered by federal assistance funds.
“This bond question is an important step to invest in safe, sustainable infrastructure and ensure it is done in an equitable way. We need to see more funding focused on closing sidewalk gaps, improving accessibility for people with disabilities and supporting safer biking,” Kevin Hahn-Petruso Trailnet’s policy manager said.
Alderwoman Marlene Davis introduced the board bill initiating this process and it was passed without opposition by the Board of Aldermen.
The debt from the bonds will be paid off using existing property tax streams and not result in a property tax increase.
In addition to street repair and biking and walking upgrades, the bonds would also help pay for a new emergency dispatch center and improving conditions at correctional facilities. Money from the bonds could also be used as matching funds for federal programs – including the transportation programs that help fund the city’s planned cycle tracks – and for repairs of city buildings.
Two-thirds of people voting in the election would need to support the bond issue for it to pass.
Press Release | Trailnet & Ste. Genevieve Department of Tourism to host inaugural gravel bike ride: StG Gravel Classic
Ste. Genevieve, Mo. – Trailnet and the Ste. Genevieve Department of Tourism are launching the StG Gravel Classic. This multi-route bike ride, Saturday April 9, 2022, is the tourism department and Trailnet’s first gravel event.
The StG Gravel Classic offers riders a choice of three routes, 20, 45 and 78 miles on levee trails and hilly gravel roads, with less than 10% of each route on paved roads.
This ride is the first of the 2022 Trailnet Classics, a series of multi-distanced, supported bike rides across the region that help fund Trailnet’s work to improve safety for people walking and biking.
The StG Gravel Classic and all of the Trailnet Classics include rest stops with food and water, marked routes, turn-by-turn directions, and support vehicles to help riders in case of mechanical or first aid issues.
“We’re launching our first gravel event this year to introduce more people to the beautiful and challenging riding Ste. Genevieve has to offer. This is a chance to embrace the spirit of gravel in such a welcoming and historically significant community,” Matt Hartman, Trailnet’s Rides Director said.
“The Ste Genevieve Tourism Department is excited to welcome riders, their friends and families to explore and connect with everything we have to offer. With our long storied- history, the Missouri Dinosaur discovery, scenic nature, delicious dining, wineries, and unique shopping, we know all who visit will fall in love,” Jeff Wix, Ste. Genevieve’s Tourism Director, said.
Riders should explore visitstegen.com for a convenient guide to lodging, dining, local winners, shops, and attractions during the weekend of the ride and for their next trip to Ste. Genevieve.
“By partnering with Ste. Genevieve, we’re introducing more people to the community and helping share the benefits of biking for economic development as well as the health and connection in the community” Cindy Mense, Trailnet’s CEO said.
What is gravel riding?
Gravel biking is simply riding bikes on unpaved gravel or dirt roads. Combining elements of road riding and mountain biking, gravel riding has grown in popularity in recent years both in recreational riding and racing.
While any bike can be ridden on gravel roads, bikes with wider tires – 32 mm or 1.25 in or thicker – are encouraged for greater comfort and handling.
The StG Gravel Classic is designed to give people of different skill levels a unique, supported gravel experience.
Timing and Prizes
All riders will receive a timing chip that records their total time on the ride. Trailnet and sponsors will be providing prizes for the top five finishers in age and gender categories.
18 and Under ($10 registration)
Men’s Open – (age 19+)
Women’s Open – (age 19+)
Men’s Masters – (age 35+)
Women’s Masters – (age 35+)
Gravel riding is as competitive or non-competitive as individual riders want it to be. The Masters Category is the more-competitive category. The Open Category is meant for riders of all levels.
Registration & Pricing
Registration is open now at Trailnet.org/rides and is $45 for the public and $30 for Trailnet members.
This year Trailnet is introducing youth pricing for riders 18 years old and younger to encourage more young riders and families to participate. Registration for people 18 and younger is $10.
Trailnet is following local health rules for organizing events. As rules change, Trailnet staff will communicate details and expectations with riders.
Trailnet will announce its full 2022 ride season calendar on Wednesday, Feb. 9.
Sponsors
The StG Gravel Classic is sponsored by Ste. Genevieve Tourism Department. The prizes for the fastest riders of each category are sponsored by InMotion Bike Fit Studio. The timing for the ride is courtesy of Billy Goat Bicycle Company. Logan University will provide complementary post-ride massages.
Schlafly Beer is the 2022 beer and hard seltzer sponsor of the Trailnet Classics.
Details
DATE: Saturday, April 19, 2022
TIME: 8 a.m.
LOCATION: Downtown Ste. Genevieve and surrounding roads and levee trails
ROUTE DISTANCES: 20, 45, 78
PRICE: $45, $30 for Trailnet Members, $10 for riders 18 years old and younger
Trailnet is the St. Louis region’s nonprofit walking, biking and public transit advocacy organization. For more than 33 years, Trailnet has been working within the St. Louis region and across the state to respond to the demand for improved walking and biking networks that attract and retain talent, strengthen our economy, and connect people to the places they love.
Rock Island Trail State park, a new cross-state bike trail
Tuesday Dec.15, 2021 the Missouri Department of Natural Resources took ownership of a 144 mile railroad corridor to convert it into the Rock Island Trail State Park.
The new trail will cross through communities in Central Missouri from Windsor to Beaufort. At Windsor, it will connect to 237 mile Katy Trail State park including the 47 mile Rock Island Trail spur that connects Windsor to Lee’s Summit in the Kansas City suburbs. Once completed the Rock Island and Katy Trails will form a 428 mile trail loop network that will connect communities, boost local economies, as well as increase bike and outdoor tourism.
From Missouri State Parks
Trailnet helped organize early efforts through its statewide collaboration: Missourians for Responsible Transportation (MRT). MRT is a partnership between the Trailnet, BikeWalk KC, LocalMotion (formerly PedNet) and Ozark Greenways focused on improving walking and biking in communities across the state.
Trailnet started meeting with partners including MMRT and Missouri State Parks in 2018 to help build a coalition to help push the trail forward. This work included vital early fundraising efforts for the trail, helping connect donors to the project and raise the initial funding to make the future rail trail possible.
This month’s news is a key step towards the creation of this new trail and state park, but it will be several years before people can ride or hike on the trail.
Missouri State Parks and Missouri Department of Natural Resources have already begun planning for construction. The trail will be completed in stages, with some sections taking a number of years and others up to a decade.
As planning and construction on the trail begins, the potential also exists to extend the trail and create more links to into the St. Louis region. This is a significant regional and statewide project with strong implications for communities across the state to be more connected through safe walking and biking infrastructure.
Trailnet’s 33rd Birthday!
Today, November 29 Trailnet turns 33! That means 33 years of dedicated work in the community.
From the early days rehabbing the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge and developing Grant’s Trail, to our work advocating for better biking, walking and public transit safety across the St. Louis region: We appreciate all our friends, members and partners who have supported our mission along the way!
33 years of your support helps us:
Bring awareness and advocacy for safer streets for all. We’re preparing for another year of committed advocacy, fighting distracted driving and connecting our St. Louis community.
Create a network of low-stress connections for people to get around the region by foot or or by bike. More than 6 miles of protected bike lanes are on track for construction in the coming years. Our work to champion this vital progress is thanks to support from people like you!
Advocate for policy changes to limit distracted driving in Missouri and improve safety for people walking and biking.
Host bike rodeos where kids and adults practice safe bike skills. We also get adults moving by hosting education sessions to build confidence commuting by bike and riding in all conditions.
Celebrate and support Trailnet
To celebrate Trailnet’s 33 years, our $55 friend-level membership will be $33 all day today! Support us by becoming a member to improve biking, walking and public transit in the St. Louis region. Become a friend-level member or gift a membership to a friend by: 1) Clicking here or the button below 2) Selecting the option “Join/Renew with a One-Time Gift” 3) Typing in $33 on the “Other” line
Share with us any of your favorite Trailnet photos, stories and memories by emailing communications@trailnet.org or connecting with us on our social media!
Thank you for so much for 33 years!
2021 Quarter 3 (July – September) Crash Report
We are over halfway through 2021, which means it is time for another quarterly crash report. This report examines crashes from July 2021 to September 2021 on roads within the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County. The report compares the number of bicycle, pedestrian, and vehicular crashes during a three month period to the same time period in the previous year.
When comparing July to September 2021 to July to September 2020, we’ve seen a slight decrease in total pedestrian and vehicular crashes in St. Louis City, with a light increase of pedestrian crashes & deaths, and total vehicular crashes in St. Louis County. When looking at specific corridors and areas in the City we saw decreases in pedestrian crashes along Kingshighway Blvd, N. Florissant Ave, and throughout Downtown St. Louis. In the County, while we have seen an increase in the total amount of pedestrian crashes and deaths, there has been a decrease in crashes specifically along Chambers Rd, a traditionally high crash corridor (6 crashes from July to September 2020 – 1 crash in July to September 2021.) It should be noted that there was a large jump in bike crashes in these months, compared to previous months of the year (Almost 60% of bike crashes in the City occurred from July to September. The rise is most likely contributed to the nicer weather in the summer months.
Click the PDF to enlarge
THIS IS A YEAR-TO-DATE GRAPHIC SHOWING TOTAL NUMBER OF CRASHES FROM JAN. 1ST TO SEPT. 30TH
New core transportation projects receive federal funding, move towards construction
Two greenway extensions, two cycle tracks (aka protected bike lanes), and a Metrolink station upgrade all move forward.
Today, five regional projects for improved walking, biking, and transit (core transportation) received federal funding, clearing the way towards construction in the coming years.
These projects are sponsored by our partners at the City of St. Louis, Great Rivers Greenway, and Metro Transit.
The projects were approved by the East West Gateway Council of Governments, a 14-county regional board responsible for transportation planning and funding.
St. Louis City projects include:
Funding to replace the Compton Ave. Bridge, adding a cycle track (aka protected bike lane) plus sidewalk and crosswalk upgrades
A city-led effort to build a cycle track on South Broadway between River Des Peres Greenway and Dover St. at Bellerive Park
Metro Transit
Accessibility, lighting, and canopy improvements at the Forest Park-DeBaliviere Metro Station
Additional funding was awarded to Metro for 18 new call-a-ride vans for seniors and people with disabilities as well as 20 new buses which will be hitting the streets in the next few years.
Great Rivers Greenway
A segment of the Brickline Greenway from Sarah St. To Grand St., including an overpass over Vandeventer Ave.
An extension of the St. Vincent Greenway from Werley Ave. to St. Charles Rock Road in St. Louis County.
Congratulations to our partners on this key step and the strides towards bringing more core transportation projects to the region. All of these projects are included in competitive federal transportation funds administered by East West Gateway. Learn more about these funds on the EWG website.
Trailnet is honored to offer enriching internships every year that allow people to gain experience building a better, more connected St. Louis. Trailnet interns come from dynamic backgrounds and are immediately plugged in to our exciting work. This month, we’re highlighting Hannah Hirsch, one of our talented 2021 summer interns.
Read on to learn about how Hannah is dedicated to working towards a more sustainable planet with active transportation options for all.
Hannah Hirsch
1) What you did this summer (outside of Trailnet)?
Outside of my work at Trailnet, I enjoyed my first summer in St. Louis where I was able to get to know the city without the stress of academics. I met a bunch of new, great people with whom I explored different local shops, neighborhoods, and events. To name a few examples, I spent a lot of time in Forest Park where I got to witness cool areas I had never seen before and enjoy nature in an urban environment. I love thrifting and I explored new shops where I enjoyed both browsing and the occasional purchase. I also attended live music shows in Tower Grove Park and frequented the farmers market.
2) What you’re studying in school?
I am pursuing a double major in Environmental Studies and Economics at WashU. I hope to use my knowledge in the future to play a role in developing climate solutions that challenge current norms and transition ourselves to a more circular economy.
3) What drew you to intern at Trailnet?
My interest in the environment both personally and academically drew me to intern at Trailnet as I desired to dig deeper into the organization’s efforts to connect neighborhoods and make streets safer for biking and walking, which are important carbon-neutral alternatives to most popular forms of transportation. My initial interest grew into an understanding of street connectivity as a goal not only to better the climate, but as a must for equity and a more cohesive city.
4) What about your time at Trailnet was valuable to your career?
Having an opportunity to work hands-on with a grant writing project is a unique experience that I was provided at Trailnet, which I cannot say I would have been offered elsewhere. I felt valued as a team member during meetings and working one-on-one with staff despite my role as an intern, challenging me to think more critically, quickly, and creatively. Taking ownership of a project and its timeline from beginning to end will prove to be critical experience in any career I ultimately pursue.
5) What has been the most fun Trailnet project to work on or learn about?
Apart from my grant writing project, I enjoyed accompanying Sam to tabling events and getting to know different St. Louis neighborhoods. In addition to immersing myself in local community events, it was interesting to take speed data at the same intersection over time and see for myself how infrastructure changes have the power to calm traffic and create safer streets.
6) What do you do like to do for fun?
In my free time I enjoy reading, listening to music, exploring and spending time with friends, and other relaxing activities. It has been harder to make time for these as the school year has started, but I’ve been doing my best to keep in the loop with local events. Recently I’ve seen live music at Blueberry Hill, visited the farmers’ market on the Delmar Loop, and explored the Hill, to name a few..
Thank you so much Hannah for you time and work at Trailnet! You are so wonderful, and we all wish you a wonderful school year!
Ride the Rivers 2021 Frequently Asked Questions
Thank you for your interest in the 2021 Ride the Rivers Century presented by Streets of St. Charles. Whether you’re riding the metric century, or the full century, here are some answers to frequently asked questions.
Packet Pickup
When and where should I get my ride packet?
Thursday Oct. 7, 6-8:00 p.m. Streets of St. Charles 1520 S 5th St, St Charles, MO 63303
If you preordered an event jersey you’ll be able to pickup it up Oct. 7 as well.
There is day-of packet pickup at 5:30 a.m. on Saturday at the check-in tent
What is the bib number for? There is a timing chip built into the number plate. It is linked to your registration and will be used to track your cumulative ride time. Use the included zip ties to attach it to your handlebars to track your overall time and standings.
What is the wristband for? The wristband confirms you’ve registered for the ride. The tear-off tabs are used for the ferry crossings, give one to the ferry operator. Please don’t tear off ahead of time.
You will need the tear-off tabs for the Golden Eagle Ferry (both routes) the Grafton Ferry (metric century route only). The Brussels Ferry is free for all users and doesn’t need a tab.
I ordered a jersey (or any other merchandise), when will I get it? If you ordered a Jersey during early-bird registration, you can pick it up on Thursday during packet pickup or on Saturday.
If you ordered the jersey after the early-bird window, it will be shipped to your house.
If you ordered socks, they will be included in your packet.
If you ordered a bottle, it will be available for pickup on Saturday.
Before the Ride
How will the route be marked?
All our routes will be marked with bright pink paint and arrows on the road.
We will have paper maps and cue sheets on our Check-in table, as well.
Once you’ve downloaded the app click here to access the routes. We may need to make be minor changes to the routes based on road conditions and construction up until Friday. You’ll receive an email when the routes are finalized and can be downloaded to your phone or GPS.
How do I contact SAG (Support And Gear) if I need help on the ride? Because of the large number of participants and distance covered during this ride we are using TraQ Central for SAG. This lets us more accurately track riders and give GPS locations to sag drivers, speeding up response times.
This easy-to-use app runs passively in the background of your phone and doesn’t significantly impact your battery. More info on TraQCentral can be found here.
Or, save this number in your phone and call: 314-913-BIKE (314-913-2453)
How should I plan for food/nutrition? Food, nutrition and water will be available at check in and at several rest stops along the routes.
Rest stops are spaced no more than 20 miles apart and will have a variety of food, water and sports mix to fuel along the way.
All riders will receive a meal ticket after the ride for food from Mission Taco and beers from Schlafly.
From Mission Taco Joint:
Chicken burrito – grilled chicken, cilantro rice, smashed black beans, Chihuahua cheese, and chipotle aioli.
Veggie burrito – smashed black beans, cilantro rice, pico de gallo, Chihuahua cheese.
From Trailnet
Schlafly Beer
Sodas
Gatorade
Day-of the Ride
When should I arrive?
If you have already picked up your ride packet, arrive no later than 6:00 a.m. This will give you time to find parking, get coffee, grab snacks, fill water etc.
If you have not picked up your packet: we strongly suggest you be in line no later than 5:30 a.m. You will need to give yourself time to get the packet, attached your timing card, return the packet to your car, and get ready to ride
When can I start the ride? All Riders must depart with the group at 7: a.m.
St. Charles Police Department will escort riders through town before closing streets along the route for two separate events after our ride group departs.
Riders will not be able to depart after the 7 a.m. group start.
Where should I park? All Riders must park in the Streets of St. Charles Parking Deck, located between Beal St. and S. Main St.
Do not park in any of the neighboring surface lots, anyone who does will be towed.
1650 Beale St. St. Charles, MO 63303
Enter the parking deck off of S. Main Street or Camelback Road because of ride-day street closures.
Do I need to bring cash for the ferry crossings?
No, your wristband has tear-off tabs that you will give to the ferry operators at Golden Eagle Ferry (both routes) the Grafton Ferry (metric century route only). The Brussels Ferry is free for all users and doesn’t need a tab.
Do I need to wear a mask?
We are asking that all riders wear a mask when not riding, eating or drinking.
Trailnet staff and volunteers will be wearing masks when interacting with other people and when social distancing isn’t possible.
We’re looking for a freelance graphic designer
Freelance Graphic Designer
Trailnet is seeking a talented, motivated Freelance Graphic Designer to collaborate remotely with our communications, development, and rides team. You will develop visual concepts, coordinate images with the comms team, and create visual assets to be used in campaigns, websites, and printed materials.
This role requires a creative and imaginative individual who can operate within the framework of our style and brand guidelines to produce original and engaging visual content. Our ideal candidate has a strong portfolio of successful design work and comprehensive knowledge of Adobe Suite and related design software. Design work will be project based with timelines and deadlines associated with each project.
Primary Responsibilities:
Create specialized assets for print, social media, web page and newsletters
Produce digital and print holiday card design
Create annual report infographics
Format and design gala program booklet
Make recommendations on updating style guidelines and branding where appropriate
Reporting Relationship: You will work closely with the Director of Development and Marketing & Communications Coordinator on a schedule and project scope of work
Job Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in graphic design preferred
Extensive portfolio of successful design work, especially digital content
Comprehensive knowledge of design software, including Adobe Suite
Excellent communicate and problem-solving skills
Enthusiasm for Trailnet’s mission and vision
About the Organization
Trailnet is a nonprofit 501c(3) organization with a 33-year history of making walking and biking a way of life in the St. Louis region. We believe everyone should have access to safe low-stress walking and biking connections where we live, work, and play in our communities. Trailnet works within the St. Louis region and across the state to respond to the demand for improved walking and biking networks that attract and retain talent, strengthen our economy, and connect people to the places they love.
Compensation: $35/hour, estimated hours per week- 5-10 hrs, may vary
Job Typeand Duration
Freelance, initial contract for 6-months
Application Information
Interested candidates should send a portfolio and resume to hr@trailnet.org
