BikeWalk Virginia, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, is seeking a qualified individual full-time to coordinate our educational programs promoting biking, walking, and trails. Specific responsibilities include coordinating our annual conference, special grant projects, legislative efforts, and membership development. The primary office is in Williamsburg, but the new position will be based in Richmond. The successful applicant must be able to work from home, and travel as needed across the state. Please mail a cover letter and resume to BikeWalk Virginia. For more information, contact Allen Turnbull (aturnbull@bikewalkvirginia.org).

BikeWalk Virginia, in partnership with VDOT, the Northern Neck Planning District Commision, and the National Park Service, is coordinating a series of meetings to map out the existing and potential routes for bicycling in the counties of Stafford, King George, Westmoreland, Northumberland, Richmond, and Lancaster. These routes would comprise a portion of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail.

The Community Planning Meetings will take place along the Northern Neck on November 27, 29, and 30. Any and all are welcome to attend the meetings. For a detailed schedule, please follow the link below. For more information, contact aturnbull@bikewalkvirginia.org.

The Virginia Capital Trail Foundation and VDOT have announced the ribbon-cutting for the first phase of the Virginia Capital Trail. The ceremony will be on Tuesday, November 21 at 10:00am. Governor Tim Kaine will be the keynote speaker with opening remarks from Virginia Senator Thomas Norment. The public is invited to attend the event.

Ultimately, the 54-mile Virginia Capital Trail will connect Williamsburg and Richmond and will offer a unique experience providing access to scenic, natural, and cultural landscapes; historic buildings; archaeological sites; and recreational areas along Route 5.

Photo credit: The Virginia Capital Trail Foundation

The Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR), in partnership with the City of Richmond and the Mid- Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts (MORE), will be sponsoring the Richmond Regional Trailbuilding Workshop on Friday, December 1, at the Carillon in Byrd Park.

The workshop will feature topics relevant to urban trail systems like solving multi-use conflicts, building sustainable trails, finding funding for trails and designing universally accessible trail-related facilities. See the preliminary agenda.

Space is limited so register quickly.

On November 17-19, the Virginia Bicyling Federation (VBF) will host its annual retreat. A dedicated group of cycling advocates throughout Virginia will convene in Louisa County at the Sophia House to share information and guidance on local cycling advocacy matters. This strategic planning session is intended to address bicycling issues in communities across the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The cost is $15 for VBF individual members for the weekend (including one representative from each member bicycle club), and $33 for non members and additional club representatives. Cost includes overnight bunkbed/dorm room accommodations with linens and food for Saturday breakfast through Sunday lunch.

For more information contact VBF President Barbara Duerk 540-343-1616 or barbgary@cox.net.

On November 9, the Virginia Chapter of the East Coast Greenway hosted a planning meeting in Alexandria to discuss the progress of this exciting system that will stretch from Florida to Maine.

The next meeting is planned for Richmond. Date TBD.

Nelson County Supervisors agreed to the purchase of an abandoned railroad tunnel in Afton for $1, providing a significant step in mapping out a trail system in the area. Restoration of the Blue Ridge tunnel is the first priority is being managed by the Whitesell Group, and once restored, it will be the third largest converted tunnel in the US.

Just in time for the holidays! BikeWalk Virginia is offering a special membership benefit. Join or renew your membership at the Family Level ($40) or higher and receive a FREE pair of "Virginia is for Bike Lovers" socks manufactered by DeFeet. These socks are one of a kind and are not available anywhere else!

This is in addition to all the other great benefits you receive for being a BikeWalk Virginia member! Take a minute to join us now! Join online or download an application and mention the recipient's shoe size in the "Biggest Concern" section.

The American Canoe Association (ACA) recently awarded the Lower Mattaponi and Pamunkey Canoe Trail as one of its twelve "Recommended Water Trails" for 2006.

To be awarded this distinction, water trails must meet a set of basic criteria and stand out as particularly good destinations for paddlers.

From January 8-14, 2007, in Shepherdstown, WV, the Conservation Fund will host a seminar on Green Infrastructure. If interested, follow the link below.