Stop the TRAIL CLOSURES at PENNYPACK PARK. 

 We are petitioningThe Philadelphia Parks and Recreation to stop all further closures of any trails until a review of the parks single track trails can be evaluated fairly, allowing SINGLE TRACK trails for mountain bikers to become part of the parks recognized permanent trail system.

The most common reason  put forth by the PPR regarding mountain biking restrictions involves environmental degradation. But the International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) has referenced numerous scientific studies that assert that mountain bikes create similar environmental impacts as hikers, and less impact than equestrians. (Link: Environmental Impacts of Mountain Biking: Science Review and Best Practices)

Further economic studies show that mountain bikers bring in dollars to communities. The PPR should be working hard to encourage valuable ecotourism opportunities like mountain biking.  A policy that restricts mountain bikers and has a negative economic impact on local businesses and taxes is irresponsible and counter productive. (Link: Jackson Hole Trails Project Economic Impact Study) (Link: Economic Benefits of Trail Tourism)
 
Public lands belong to all of us. It is time for the Philadelphia Parks and Recreation to have in place a policy that sets mountain bikers on equal footing with hikers and equestrians and provides us with equal trail access opportunities.

Please sign this petition and send the message to the Philadelphia Parks and Recreation that it is time for a consistent and non-discriminatory standard policy that addresses mountain bike trail access.