Walk, Bike & Roll New York Symposium 2026I recently had the opportunity to attend the 2026 Walk, Bike & Roll New York Symposium in Tarrytown on behalf of the Mid-Hudson Bicycle Club. The symposium brought together transportation planners, advocates, engineers, educators, and community organizations from across the state to share ideas for creating safer, more accessible places to walk, bike, and roll. Throughout the day, expert-led presentations highlighted innovative programs and practical strategies that communities are using to improve active transportation and expand access for people of all ages and abilities.
Among the many excellent presentations, two stood out in particular. Shredders MTB, a statewide youth cycling organization, shared how they partnered with local public schools and bike shops to introduce cycling into physical education classes. Students are taught how to ride from balance bikes to geared bicycles while learning best practices, basic maintenance, and traffic safety all in the controlled environment of a school gymnasium. The program has been so successful that it helped generate community support for building a public bike park to meet the growing demand from young riders and their families.
Another memorable presentation came from Parks & Trails New York, which very recently unveiled its new report on the economic impact of the Empire State Trail. The findings reinforce what many of us have long recognized: investing in cycling infrastructure benefits both local communities and the state's economy. The report estimates that the trail generates $1.87 billion in annual statewide economic output and attracts 9.75 million visits each year, with detailed data available for individual counties throughout New York.
The Hudson Valley is already an incredible place to ride, but there are still many opportunities to improve safety, expand access, and encourage more people to choose biking. It was inspiring to see so many organizations working toward these shared goals, and the symposium provided valuable ideas that can help inform advocacy and community efforts here at home. Events like this are an excellent opportunity for MHBC to learn, collaborate, and continue supporting a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone who rides.
For those interested in learning more, both organizations have excellent resources available online: - Submitted by Rob Cerrato of BikePoughkeepsie.org
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