State Parks seeks volunteers for Scenic Bikeways task force | Application period closes May 10

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (Parks) will establish a statewide Scenic Bikeways program. As part of that effort, the agency will establish an advisory task force to work with agency staff throughout the development and implementation of this new program.

Parks is recruiting approximately 15 members of the public to serve a two-year term on a volunteer advisory task force. Most task force meetings will take place virtually. However, the task force may occasionally meet in person. Travel expenses for in-person meetings can be reimbursed in some cases. Members who are low-income or have lived experience as part of a historically marginalized group may apply for a stipend in accordance with the state’s Office of Equity guidance.

Task force duties include:

Reviewing and discussing draft processes, such as evaluation criteria for route proposals.

Reviewing and evaluating route proposals.

Providing recommendations on Scenic Bikeway designations to the Commission.

Assisting in other aspects of program formation.

Parks seeks to incorporate community knowledge throughout the process to create a program that welcomes a broad group of recreational visitors. The task force is intended to reflect the diverse populations served by the agency.

Scenic Bikeways will include bicycle routes made up of existing trails, roadway shoulders and/or bike lanes that have exceptional scenic, historic, recreational or cultural value, as proposed by individuals across the state. The Commission will designate a collection of scenic bikeways statewide. Parks will provide route signage and promote the areas as extraordinary places for cycling in Washington. The program is being established in accordance with RCW 79A.05.800.

Task force applications and additional information can be found at: www.parks.wa.gov/128/Trails.

The Application can be found in the middle of the page, under “Join the Scenic Bikeways task force.” Applications must be filled out and submitted by email to ScenicBikeways@parks.wa.gov by May 10.

This application is to serve on the task force. The agency is not yet accepting proposals for Scenic Bikeway routes.

For more information, contact Meryl Lassen, Communications Consultant at media@parks.wa.gov.

About Washington State Parks

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.