On April 9, 2025, Farmington’s cycling community skipped dinner tables in favor of Zoom windows, gathering virtually to pedal their grievances directly into the public record.
The primary topic of discussion was the 2024 League of American Bicyclists Survey, a comprehensive poll capturing feedback from 250 respondentsâmore than 200 of whom identified as Farmington residents. The results highlighted stark contrasts in satisfaction: residents praised Farmingtonâs off-road trails, like the Canal Heritage Trail and River Trail, as “well-maintained” and a “gem” but sharply criticized the town’s on-road cycling conditions, especially Route 4.
“Route 4 is completely unsafe for bikesâno bike lanes, paths, or sidewalks,” one resident noted bluntly. Another resident added, âI moved from a very bicyclist-friendly area to here where I can’t safely bike more than 100 feet away from my home.â
These concerns weren’t isolated. Respondents repeatedly cited distracted driving and insufficient bike lanes as major barriers. Carolyn, a committee member who meticulously reviewed survey findings, stressed that Route 4 emerged repeatedly as a particularly problematic area, largely due to fast-moving, inattentive drivers.
Committee member Rich further emphasized the need for improved connectivity along Route 4, underscoring its role as a vital corridor connecting neighborhoods to Farmington’s center. Neil, another member who joined after coaching a local youth game, added urgency by recounting a recent accident involving a local high school student, highlighting real-world consequences of inadequate safety measures.
Recognizing the urgency, the committee agreed to swiftly escalate their concerns to the Farmington Town Council. “They ought to hear this,” emphasized one committee participant, highlighting plans to present survey findings before summer’s peak cycling months. The committee also proposed a multifaceted outreach effort: incorporating results into the town newsletter, enhancing the townâs website with QR codes linking to detailed reports, and broadening public engagement.
In contrast to the safety debates, the meeting included a positive note courtesy of Life Scout Seth Kalanseria. Seth shared details of his Eagle Scout project, a thoughtful initiative to replace a deteriorating kiosk and bench along the Canal Heritage Trail at Red Oak Hill Road. His proposal, complete with robust design sketches and considerations from town guidelines, provided a brief respite from discussions on safety hazards.
Yet, despite celebrating community pride in local trails, Farmington cyclists remain focused on addressing urgent infrastructure shortcomings. Carolyn aptly summarized, “Farmington supports biking at a ‘B’ levelâsolid but needing clear improvement.” As local elections approach, cycling safety, particularly around Route 4, will undoubtedly gain further traction. đ˛
This article is proudly sponsored by Farmington Storageâbecause nothing secures your peace of mind quite like a climate-controlled storage unit at 155 Scott Swamp Road. Give us a call at 860.777.4001âtrust us, even your bike prefers our premium “museum air” over Route 4. đ´ââď¸đ
Cheers and gears, Jack Beckett
Senior Writer, The Farmington Mercury
Powered daily by Summit Coffee espressoâlife’s too short for decaf. âď¸
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