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Area bike trails getting bigger, better

Downtown hub is among 17 projects to be completed in 3 counties this summer.

Bike trail, sidewalk improvement projects to begin

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By Ken McCall, Staff Writer Updated 11:43 AM Monday, April 19, 2010

The summer construction season is shaping up to be a good one for cyclists and pedestrians.

At least 17 projects for bikers, runners, walkers and other trail users will be completed in Montgomery, Miami and Greene counties this year. The projects will add close to 14 miles of new trail, some trail resurfacing, many pedestrian improvements, and two new hubs for trail users.

Total spending will be well over $25 million in federal, state and local money.

The crown jewel is the new bike hub included in the $65 million Phase III of RiverScape, which is slated to be completed in June.

The hub will offer amenities for bike commuters, casual cyclists and anyone visiting RiverScape. It’s part of an expansion of the downtown MetroPark that includes a 17,000-square-foot pavilion and an expanded ice rink.

The 5,000-square-foot bike hub includes secure bike parking, lockers and showers for bike commuters, as well as public restrooms, food concessions, and an expanded rental operation that will offer bikes as well as watercraft and ice skates in season.

“The idea is to become the psychological center of commuting and bike advocacy and bicycle friendliness,” said Beth Miller, director of marketing for Five Rivers MetroParks.

The park expansion isn’t just for trail users. The pavilion will be set up with tables and chairs for shaded lounging during the day, house concerts in the evening with seating for 1,800, and shelter a 9,600-square-foot ice rink in the winter.

“There are wonderfully vibrant things happening downtown,” Miller said. “This is just one example.”

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2393 or kmccall@DaytonDailyNews.com.

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