Welcome Bent Water as a '23 NEMBA Regional Sponsor

12/12/2024

Grant funding to boost regional tourism and adaptive mountain biking

BOSTON — Today, the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced over $300,000 in Destination Mountain Biking Development Grants through the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR). In partnership with the New England Mountain Bike Association (NEMBA), three organizations have been awarded grants to build and maintain destination mountain biking trail systems that include accessibility features, offer scenic routes, and stimulate rural economies.

“Expanding our mountain biking trail system will create destinations that connect visitors to our rural communities and the mountains and forests that surround them,” said MOOR Director Paul Jahnige. “It is without a doubt, that investing in accessible outdoor recreation is beneficial not only for our state’s regional economies but also for our health. Everyone deserves to enjoy the freedom and thrill of mountain biking and playing outside.”

Projects completed by grantees will also feature adaptive mountain biking trails that can be enjoyed by riders using assistive devices. Established in December 2023, a key pillar of MOOR is to include communities that have historically been left out of outdoor recreational activities. The Office also collaborates with agencies and private partners to promote activities across the state, including fishing, horseback riding, paddling, snowmobiling, bird watching, swimming, and more. Outdoor recreation is vital to Massachusetts, contributing $13.2 billion to the economy, creating over 103,600 jobs, and boosting tourism.

"These awards recognize innovative projects that enhance trail access, promote outdoor recreation, and strengthen our communities,” said State Representative John Barrett III (D-1st Berkshire).