08.25.2011

Yahoo News on Ohio to Erie Trail

Ohio to Erie Cycling Trail Expands Eco-Tourism Attractions in the Buckeye State
By Tara Dodrill | Yahoo! Contributor Network

Columbus, Ohio, is rapidly becoming a destination of choice for cyclists. A new bicycle hub may be added to the 300 mile long Ohio to Erie Trail in the city's Hilltop area. While the added muscle-powered attraction has many cycling, running and in-line skating enthusiasts excited, garnering funds for the hub remains a major obstacle. The Ohio to Erie Trail which extends from Cincinnati to Cleveland is 82 percent complete. Members of the non-profit Erie Trail Fund are planning events toraise the money necessary to build a "world-class" bicycle pathway and cyclists hub.

The planned bicycle hub will be not only a place for cyclists to park their cars, but a full-service trail stop for supplies, rest and bicycle repair. The planned Ohio to Erie Trail route swings past a nearly 50 acre part in the metropolitan area near Broad Street before wining out of the city. Camp Chase Station, the anticipated name of the bicycle hub would be near the new Hollywood Casino and further efforts to rejuvenate the West Side of Columbus.

Urban dwellers typically have far less space and opportunity for outdoor recreation than those living in suburban and rural areas. Bicycle trails and hubs like the one currently underway in Ohio offers not only added opportunity but potential eco-tourism dollars. In theory, visitors traveling the lengthy trail will need a place to sleep, eat and purchase supplies. Blending cultural and commercial attractions with eco-tourism offerings will not only garner revenue for local businesses, but perhaps introduce more city residents to the joys of outdoor recreation. Visitors may come for the casino, but decide to finally live-up to a fading New Year's resolution to get into shape and walk, run or rent a bicycle to traverse a portion of the trail.

Preliminary plans for the cycling hub along the massive trail include a shelter house, restrooms, meeting space and a nutrition center. The building will not be an unattractive concrete building, but harkens to the natural side of the Buckeye State with an old fashioned red barn design. Consider Biking Executive Director Jeff Stephens has grand ideas for hub, which include attributes at a similar site in Minneapolis which included a bicycle repair and coffee shop.

The Ohio to Erie Trail already boasts a railroad station themed hub in the city of Xenia which includes a travel and cycling literature booth and rest area. Columbus Recreation and Park's Director Alan McKnight noted that while there are no funds in the budget for such a project, he likes the idea and is willing to work with community groups to determine if the project is supported and feasible in the area.

Article Link:
http://news.yahoo.com/ohio-erie-cycling-trail-expands-eco-tourism-attractions-235800920.html