At Paving the Way 2024, Trailnet will introduce the winners of the 2024 MAP Awards, an award series that acknowledges the contributions of exceptional Trailnet Members, Advocates, and Partners.
This award honors an outstanding Trailnet Member who has demonstrated a commitment to fighting for Streets for All. This individual or family has invested significant resources—money, time or energy—into advancing Trailnet’s mission. They inspire others to join the fight.
2024 Winners: Barbara and Bob Lindecke
Barbara and Bob have been consistent Trailnet members since 1994, making this year their 30th anniversary as Trailnet members!
Barbara and Bob love to take walks on Grant’s Trail. Bob became the Eagle Scout Project Coordinator for Grant’s Trail when he retired. He also worked with several AmeriCorp groups that helped improve the trail in the late 90s.
Not only do they give generously as Peloton Society members, but they also love to come to Trailnet events to learn more about bike/ped advocacy. They joined us for the Walking Tour of Louisiana Calm Street, where they insisted on helping set up the table when they arrived a little early. Barbara and Bob are steady, generous supporters of our work.
Outstanding Streets for All Advocate
This award honors an individual, family or organization that has fought for policies that make our region better for people walking, biking or using public transportation. The honoree has advanced specific advocacy campaigns that have resulted in safer streets for all users. They are exemplary advocates.
2024 Winner: Anne Schweitzer
For years, Hon. Anne Schweitzer has used her voice and influence to protect vulnerable road users in St. Louis.
During her time as Chairwoman of the Public Infrastructure and Utilities committee, Alderwoman Schweitzer has passed significant legislation to protect people who walk, bike and catch the bus in the City of St. Louis. She shepherded key legislation including BB120, BB105, Vision Zero and Complete Streets.
In addition to using her legislative power, Hon. Schweitzer has also used her voice and personal life as an example for others. In 2023, she wrote an op-ed in the Riverfront Times entitled “What I’ve Learned Being ‘Car-Light’ in St. Louis for 6 Months” and shared both the joys and difficulties of getting around the city with limited access to a personal vehicle. This year, she organized a bike bus to city hall for the passage of the Complete Streets Bill. She joined other bike buses and events organized by the St. Louis Coalition to Protect Cyclists and Pedestrians to bring public attention to street safety issues and worked with the community and the city to create a monthly “car free” week in Carondelet Park.
Outstanding Streets for All Partner
This award honors an individual, family or organization that has worked hand-in-hand with Trailnet and other community members to fight for Streets for All. The honoree has contributed essential knowledge, skills, time and resources to a project that spurred progress in the region. They are passionate, multi-dimensional allies who share our vision.
2024 Winner: Kelly McGowan & Transform 314
Kelly McGowan, MPH, is a proud St. Louisan and Health Equity Advocate.
Kelly is the founder and Executive Director of Transform 314, an organization whose mission is “to educate, engage, and empower Black St. Louisans to drive policy changes at the local level needed to create thriving communities.” Kelly is also the Policy & Membership Experience Manager for the Missouri Center for Public Health Excellence.
Kelly and Transform314 launched a project which surveyed Black residents in St. Louis about the challenges they are facing in their communities. Traffic violence and street-related issues were top concerns. Kelly and Transform314 hosts monthly Community Meet Ups to “facilitate dialogue between elected officials and residents, so that we all understand our roles and responsibilities concerning the betterment of our communities.” Traffic violence is a common topic, and Kelly is inspiring people to take action.
Ride your bike between the Oak Bend and Grant’s View branches for prizes, kid’s programming, wellness activities, and more. In partnership with St. Louis County Library, Great Rivers Greenway, Historic Sappington House Museum, and Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site. All ages. Learn more at https://ow.ly/BW5T50Ts7uR
Release: St. Louis Region Celebrates National Bike to Work Day on May 17
[ST. LOUIS, MO/May 13, 2024] May 17 is National Bike to Work Day, the perfect occasion to see how the many benefits of biking can be a part of your regular work commute. Great Rivers Greenway, Metro Transit, Trailnet and Washington University in St. Louis have partnered to host “bike hospitality stations” at five MetroLink stations on National Bike to Work Day to support cyclists celebrating the holiday, promote biking and alternative transportation, and encourage more people to give biking a try.
“Our streets are for you. You deserve safe, convenient, affordable, environmentally sustainable and fun options for your commute. That might mean biking, walking, scooting, or catching a bus or MetroLink,” said Cindy Mense, CEO of Trailnet. “Every May during National Bike Month, we celebrate biking as an important part of that equation, while continuing to advocate for streets that are safe for everyone.”
On Friday, May 17, from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., bike commuters can visit any of five area hospitality stations located at the Clayton, Skinker, Forest Park-DeBaliviere, Cortex and Stadium MetroLink Stations. Visitors will be able to enjoy free coffee, fruits, snacks and other refreshments, as well as a custom “I Biked to Work” sticker they can wear with pride. Cyclists can also receive a free Metro Transit Day Pass while supplies last, other giveaways and cycling information.
Combining your bike with MetroLink and/or MetroBus is a great way to extend the reach of the transit system and make your commutes quicker and more convenient. All MetroLInk trains have designated areas for commuters to store their bikes during their train trips, and commuters can also store their bikes on special bike racks attached to the front of all Metro buses. Transit customers can learn more about how to easily load their bikes onto buses and trains by visiting MetroStLouis.org/Bike-and-Ride.
“Our region enjoys an integrated transportation network with trails and greenways, bike paths and walkways, safe streets, buses, trains, and more. Combining different elements of this network is one of the best ways to travel around town,” said Charles Stewart, Chief Operating Officer of Metro Transit. “National Bike to Work Day is the perfect excuse to stop procrastinating, get on your bike and see how you can incorporate cycling into your daily routine and enjoy more convenient, enjoyable and healthier commuting.”
For more information: Justin Seaton, Trailnet | justin@trailnet.org Jerry Vallely, Metro Transit | jmvallely@bistatedev.org | 314.982.1458
Embark on a beloved Trailnet Community Ride tour led by Dana Gray, an art consultant. Explore the rich art history of St. Louis as you visit various sites and delve into their stories. Join us for an enlightening journey through the city’s vibrant artistic heritage!
Check back soon for ride starting location, route, and program.
The ride will depart at 10 a.m. Check-in begins at 9 a.m.
Approximate End Time: 12 pm
About Trailnet Community Rides
Trailnet Community Rides are guided, slow-paced, group bike rides that explore the history and culture of the St. Louis Community.
Community Rides generally last around 3 hours. There are no staffed rest stops on these rides, and we cannot guarantee access to restrooms or water. Please plan accordingly.
Community Rides registration is capped at 75 participants. A smaller group allows us to safely manage riders on open city streets, ensures our docents/guides can effectively deliver information, and guarantees that local stops (museums, churches, businesses, etc.…) won’t be overwhelmed when we roll up.
This Juneteenth, celebrate St. Louis’s Black artists, musicians, and history with a bike ride featuring live music. Join Trailnet & 4 The Ville with support from the Missouri Historical Society, and Regional Arts Commission, on Saturday, June 15th, for a group bicycle ride with performances from area musicians and storytellers sharing the city’s history.
This year’s Juneteenth celebration features post-event activities and live music.
1:30 pm – rough estimation on ride returning to Tandy Recreation Center
Start Location: Tandy Recreation Center (4206 Kennerly Ave, St. Louis, MO 63113)
Routes Length (in miles): roughly 11 miles (leisurely riding broken up by four stops)
Terrain: Paved city streets
About Trailnet Community Rides
Trailnet Community Rides are guided, slow-paced, group bike rides that explore the history and culture of the St. Louis Community. Community Rides generally last around 3 hours. There are no staffed rest stops on these rides, and we cannot guarantee access to restrooms or water. Please plan accordingly.
The Giro Della Montagna (“Tour of The Hill” in Italiano) is our showcase of the City of St. Louis. Giro bursts onto the scene with vibrant energy, swapping the serene forest green for the fiery allure of red brick. Its winding paths weave through the heart of iconic neighborhoods like St. Louis Hills, Carondelet, and the Central West End, offering a thrilling adventure for cyclists. This urban journey adds a dash of metropolitan flair to our roster, providing the ideal counterpart to our rustic escapades. Embark on the Giro and experience the pulse of the city like never before.
After the ride, stick around on The Hill to watch some exciting bike racing during The Gateway Cup brought to you by Big Shark Bicycle Company.
Schedule
6:30 am – Registration & check-in opens
7 am – 8 am – Open start window (details below)
10:30 am – Gateway Cup racing begins! (Giro Della Montagna Event Page)
Riders can start anytime between 7 and 8 a.m. but must leave before 8:00 a.m. The purpose of the 8:00 a.m. cutoff time is to help us manage SAG and Rest Stop support by knowing how many riders are out on the course. If we allow riders to start later than 8:00 a.m., we must keep rest stops open much later in the day, which strains our amazing volunteers who have given their time to keep you hydrated and fed. We appreciate your cooperation.
New for 2024!
We have partnered with our friends from the World Affairs Council STL to incorporate a community bike ride during the Giro Della Montagna!
Have you ever wondered how international community members have shaped the development of St. Louis into the vibrant city we know today? Join Trailnet and the World Affairs STL for a group bike tour of St. Louis neighborhoods and cultural history to learn more. This ride within a ride will feature presentations at several distinct locations, each with unique and noteworthy historical significance.
Route and content information will be emailed on or before 6/5/24.
Embark on a thrilling adventure in the Bottleneck Bridge Ride, proudly brought to you by Trailnet, the Festus Tourism Commission, the City of Festus, and the Jefferson County Growth Association. Affectionately known as “One Hill of a Ride,” this event promises a memorable journey through the heart of Jefferson County.
Begin your adventure amidst the lively atmosphere of Festus Main Street, where anticipation fills the air. With route options ranging from 17 to 67 miles, cyclists of all levels can explore the charming town centers and tranquil country roads that define the region. Along the way, discover rest stops at local wineries, restaurants, and historical landmarks like the Sandy Creek Covered Bridge.
For the younger riders, there are exciting Strider races, courtesy of Living Life on 2 Wheels, adding an extra dash of fun to the day. And after the ride, linger awhile to enjoy live music, delicious dining options, and unique shopping experiences.
Join us for a day of cycling, community, and celebration at the Bottleneck Bridge Ride—an event that promises unforgettable moments and the simple joy of exploring the great outdoors.
Registration includes:
Exclusive Bottleneck Bridge 2024 T-shirt
Complimentary Beer and Fitz’s Beverages
Well-stocked rest stations
Kaldi Coffee for morning fuel
SAG support
Post-ride street party with live entertainment
Vendor stations with giveaways and engagement
Entry to win a fun Festus raffle basket
Schedule
6:30 am – Registration opens
7:30 am – Staging for all routes begins
7:45 am – Registration closes
8 am – rolling group start led by a police escort. Once riders have been escorted into Crystal City, they may ride at their own pace. The group start is not optional and is required by the Cities of Festus and Crystal City.
11 am – live music starts and food vendors open up
12 pm – Kid’s race begins under the Trailnet arch at the start/finish line
🚲🍦 Get Ready to Pedal & Savor: Join Us for the Ultimate Ice Cream Bike Ride! 🍦🚲
Indulge Your Senses: This year, we’re pulling out all the stops to make your July ride a truly unforgettable experience. Picture this: cruising along the beautiful Madison County Trail system, surrounded by lush greenery and summer sunshine, fully stocked aid stations with smiling attendants, and plenty of fun back at the finish line.
🍨 Treats Galore: From creamy scoops of locally churned ice cream courtesy of Ice Caps Creamery to fizzy root beer floats generously provided by Fitz Root Beer, we’ve got all your cravings covered. And for those who prefer a different kind of chill, we will have you sorted with ice-cold beer.
👨👩👧👦 Fun for the Whole Family: Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, there’s something for everyone at I Scream for Ice Cream Ride. Choose from a variety of routes ranging from leisurely tours to longer treks, and bring the whole family along for a day of outdoor adventure.
🛍️ Stay, play, and shop! You won’t want to miss the awesome sidewalk sale at the Cyclery and Fitness Center. From top-of-the-line bikes to must-have gear, they’ve got everything you need to take your ride to the next level. 🚴♀️ Trailnet merch will be sold at event-only pricing and local food trucks will be on site, so bring extra cash or a card. Trust us – the fun doesn’t stop when the riding ends!
Mark Your Calendar: We’ll see you at I Scream for Ice Cream – where every mile leads to delicious treats and unforgettable memories! 🚴♀️🍦
Here’s the Scoop (Schedule)
6:15 am – Registration opens
7:30 am – Staging begins for 51 Mile Ride
7:40 am – Registration closes
7:45 am – 51 Mile Start*
8:00 am – 35 Mile Start*
8:15 am – 23 Mile Start*
8:30 am – 10 Mile Start*
*Rolling group start led by a police escort. Once riders have been escorted onto the MCT Trail, they may ride at their own pace. The group start is not optional and is required by the City of Edwardsville.
Exciting event extras!
Stay the weekend in downtown Edwardsville! Urban Collective Boutique Hotel has offered a 15% discount to folks registered for the I Scream for Ice Cream Classic. Nestled in the heart of the city, this boutique hotel features eight distinct suites, each with its own unique ambiance, colors, themes, styles, and décor. Discount code will be sent in your confirmation email. Book before rooms sell out!
We are thrilled to offer you a wild bike journey through the lush landscapes of Wildwood, MO!
With carefully planned routes catering to various skill levels, participants can expect an adventure filled with ups and downs, traversing some of the region’s most stunning parks and wildlife areas.
For those seeking a less demanding ride, shorter distances are available, ensuring energy reserves for the lively post-ride celebration. Meanwhile, participants looking for a challenge can tackle longer courses featuring Category 3 climbs with gradients exceeding 10%.
Regardless of the chosen route, cyclists can anticipate a well-deserved post-ride party to celebrate their accomplishments. This event is a fantastic opportunity for biking enthusiasts to experience the beauty of Wildwood, MO, while pushing their limits and enjoying the camaraderie of fellow riders.
Schedule
6:30 am – Registration opens
7:30 am – Staging for all routes begins
7:45 am – Registration closes
8 am – Rolling group start led by a police escort. The group start is not optional and is required by the City of Wildwood.
St. Louis, MO – As Missouri approaches its first Distracted Driving Awareness Month with a Hands-Free Law on the books, Trailnet is committed to educating our neighbors about the benefits of staying focused on the road. That’s why Trailnet is launching its Drive the Change: Buckle Up Phone Down campaign, fueled by General Motors, this April.
We all know that distracted driving is dangerous. Now, it’s also illegal, thanks to the Siddens Bening Hands Free Law, which went into effect on August 28, 2023. The new law prohibits all drivers from using a handheld electronic communication device while driving. Learn more about the law here.
Starting this April, Drive the Change will recruit our neighbors to 1) sign the Buckle Up, Phone Down pledge 2) challenge friends and family to sign the pledge, and 3) display a car magnet and yard sign showing their support during April 2024.
The Buckle Up Phone Down pledge is a challenge initiated by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) to address the two most impactful actions a driver can take to prevent crashes or survive if one occurs.
Now is the perfect opportunity for Missourians to be a part of a changing culture around driving safety. By committing to driving distraction-free, you’re not just following the law — you’re actively contributing to a safer, more caring community.
Trailnet is partnering with other community organizations and businesses including the Hands Free Missouri Coalition, Alpine Shop, BWorks, Billy Goat Bicycles, Bike Walk KC, the Joplin Health Department, MoDOT, Ozark Greenways, Pedego St. Louis, and Southside Cyclery to spread the word about the campaign. Your organization or business can still get involved at trailnet.org/take-the-pledge.
Trailnet invites members of the public and the media to our Saturday, April 6 kick-off event outside Pedego St. Louis along Grant’s Trail, 801 S Holmes Ave, St. Louis, MO 63122. Stop by the kick-off event any time from 10 am to noon. Learn more about the campaign, take the pledge, enjoy a treat, take a ride or walk along Grant’s Trail, and pick up a car magnet and yard sign to show your support. RSVP at https://fb.me/e/6GmucysOM
Trailnet is the St. Louis-region non-profit advocating for better walking, biking and public transit. Founded in 1988, Trailnet’s vision is for Streets for All. Trailnet pursues this vision through four program areas: community planning, education, policy and bike rides. Learn more at trailnet.org or by following us @Trailnet on Facebook and X and @TrailnetSTL on Instagram.
Please reach out to Corinne Austin, Chief Operating Officer, corinne@trailnet.org or 314-520-2324 or Charles Bryson, Policy Catalyst, charles@trailnet.org or 314-560-8447 for more information.
General Motors (NYSE:GM) is a global company focused on advancing an all-electric future that is inclusive and accessible to all. At the heart of this strategy is the Ultium battery platform, which will power everything from mass-market to high-performance vehicles. General Motors, its subsidiaries and its joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Baojun and Wuling brands. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in safety services and connected vehicle technology, can be found at https://www.gm.com.
For more information about MoDOT and the Buckle Up Phone Down initiative, call MoDOT at 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org. To receive the latest statewide news and text alerts, signup for e-updates.
