Last week, BAC received a North Carolina Adopt a Trail (AAT) grant of $5,000 for Rocky Knob Park. The AAT program was authorized in 1987 by the North Carolina General Assembly with the North Carolina Trails System Act. The AAT awards are managed by the State Trails, a section of the North Carolina Department of Parks and Recreation. 

In May 2011, BAC received a $500 grant from the International Mountain Bicycling Association and CLIF Bar. This award is given to only ten trail projects nationally which “promote environmental education and inspire conservation in the mountain biking community.”

BAC will use the funds from both awards for “special projects” of Phase II Trail Development at Rocky Knob Park. These projects include wooden structures that will be used to cross streams and rocky areas.

BAC has been influential in previously awarded grants for Rocky Knob Park through bike-specific organizations like Bikes Belong and Specialized. To date, BAC, Watauga County, and Watauga County Tourism Development Authority (WCTDA) have secured over $550,000 in grants for the facility. 

These funds, along with over 2,500 volunteer service hours have created something our whole area is proud of!

For more info, read the full release. 

Stay up-to-date with all the happenings at the park through the Rocky Knob BLOG. 

• Thursday, February 16th at 6pm
• Councill Auditorium at Watauga Medical Center- Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Entrance
• Parking is available directly across from the AHEC entrance (near the main entrance to the hospital) or in the Parking Deck located at the intersection of Deerfield and State Farm Road.
• This great venue is very easy to find (see picture of the entrance below)
• Look for the BAC signs to direct you to the Auditorium
• Open to the Public
• Membership Renewals and 2012 Memberships will be available

Advocacy. Members have worked diligently to make cycling more visible, accessible, and safe in the Boone area.  As an active 501c‐3 non‐profit, BAC has helped secure grant funding for Cyclo.Via, Rocky Knob Park, and other projects.

Annual Meeting. Conducted our 2nd‐annual membership meeting with over 40 people in attendance.

BAC Member Day at the Shops. On January 19 the fine folks at Boone Bike and Magic Cycles opened their doors after hours for BAC members and provided a festive environment with deep discounts.

Bikes as Transportation. BAC is working for those who commute. Closely worked with elected officials and NCDOT on the Watauga County Comprehensive Transportation Plan, specifically, a Bike Element Map which highlighted areas where appropriations for bicycle improvements are needed. Many BAC representatives also present at public meetings for the NC Highway 105 widening project.

BSG Support. For the second year, BAC has supported the Blood, Sweat, and Gears event by staffing a rest area on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Cyclo.Via! This first-annual event closed the streets of Boone to vehicles! This was a huge success with hundreds of attendees. Video.

Kids Events. Conducted an extensive Kid's Spring Bike Rally with high attendance. Also, conducted Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day in conjunction with IMBA.

Membership Growth. over 175 individuals (increase of approximately 20% over 2010). 2012 Membership information HERE.

Partnerships. Development continues rapidly in this area, particularly as we establish relationships with organizations who are similar to our mission like High Country Recreation, and Watauga County Pathways. 

Safe Streets Pledge. As part of the Year of the Bike initiative, increased awareness for cycling by promoting the pledge, and won the public endorsement of the Boone Town Council. Take the Pledge!

Web and Social Media Development. More communication with members including two newsletters. A busy website with an active user forum to share ideas, rides, and items for sale.

photos courtesy of Kristian Jackson.