The Roanoke Mountain Bike Alliance (RMBA) believes that strong partnerships between local governments and volunteer organizations are essential to maintaining and growing the outdoor resources that make our region special.
Formerly known as Blue Ridge Off-Road Cyclists (BROC), RMBA is a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization whose mission is to be stewards of mountain bike experiences and foster community in the greater Roanoke region. Our volunteers contribute thousands of hours each year maintaining trails, supporting the mountain biking community and helping ensure that public trail systems remain safe, sustainable and accessible. We take pride in the abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities at our doorstep and strive to be a vital part of keeping those public places welcoming and thriving.
RMBA has worked with the city of Roanoke on numerous successful projects over the 15 years of our existence. Recent examples include the Trough Trail reroute project, construction and resurfacing efforts at the Vic Thomas Park Skills Loop, and ongoing volunteer trail maintenance days. In each case, RMBA volunteers provided labor, equipment, fundraising support and project coordination while working within established approval processes and in partnership with the city parks and recreation department.
These successes, and the recent national-level press regarding the success of the collaborative efforts between the city of Blacksburg, the New River Land Trust and the volunteers at the Poverty Creek Trails Coalition, demonstrate what can be accomplished when public agencies and volunteer organizations work together toward shared goals. At Brush Mountain Park in Blacksburg, this collaboration has resulted in the development and maintenance of over 20 miles of trail, including new, professionally built trails, which have introduced variety, increased access to outdoor recreation and helped cement the area as a destination for mountain bikers. Volunteers bring passion, expertise, local knowledge and thousands of hours of labor that supplement limited public resources. Local governments provide oversight, planning and long-term stewardship. Together, these partnerships create better outcomes for everyone who uses and enjoys our trail systems.
Like many organizations working on public lands, RMBA has at times encountered administrative and procedural challenges that can make volunteer efforts difficult to organize efficiently. However, our focus remains on finding solutions and strengthening collaboration. We believe there are opportunities to streamline communication, improve project approval processes and create clearer pathways for community involvement. Particularly in this time of exceedingly tight fiscal constraints on the city’s parks and recreation budget, fostering community trust and looking towards creative solutions are critical for the ongoing stewardship of our public lands.
Communities across the nation have demonstrated the benefits of strong partnerships between municipalities, conservation organizations and volunteer trail groups. These collaborations have resulted in expanded recreational opportunities, improved trail systems, increased tourism and stronger community engagement.
Roanoke already possesses an incredible network of trails and a passionate outdoor community. RMBA remains committed to working collaboratively with city staff, elected officials and community partners to protect and enhance these resources. We believe that by continuing to build trust, improve communication and embrace volunteer contributions, Roanoke can further strengthen its position as one of the premier outdoor recreation destinations in the country.
Abi Snyder is a board member of the Roanoke Mountain Bike Alliance.
