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Highlights from the 8th Biennial Tri-State Trails Summit
Thursday, November 21, 2024 by Caitlin Sparks
As we reflect and soak up the insights shared, Bridget Marquis’ words resonate deeply, capturing the essence of the day and our shared mission:
“Reimagining the civic commons isn’t just about building beautiful public spaces, though that’s necessary. It’s not simply about the bricks and mortar; there’s so much more potential to your collective work. This is about considering your work as a solution. It’s about joining a network of leaders in cities across the country who are committing to outcomes, changing practice, and ultimately building a movement to harness the true power of the commons.”
Bridget continued:
“As stewards and builders of the public realm, we have the opportunity—and I would say the obligation—to take on some of the most pressing challenges of our time. It’s incumbent upon each and every one of us to find ways to build social connection, particularly across diversity, to create a sense of belonging, and to counter the prevailing winds of isolation, division, fear, and distrust. It’s on us to deliver the common good. Human connection is the bedrock for democracy, and local connection really matters. We’re charged, in essence, with building the literal common ground of our communities.”
Her call to action reminds us of our profound responsibility in shaping spaces that bring people together, nurture connection, and build resilience. The Summit has left us inspired, united, and ready to embrace this challenge with emboldened purpose.
Continue reading; you’ll find a collection of resources to keep the momentum alive: recordings of the panels and sessions, the Summit evaluation survey, reflections on the awards ceremony, and meaningful ways to get involved and support Tri-State Trails as we move forward.
Thank You 2024 Summit Sponsors!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, whose generous support made the 8th Biennial Tri-State Trails Summit possible. A special thank you to our presenting sponsor, Cincinnati Metro, for leading the way in championing connectivity and vitality in our region. To all our sponsors, members, and partners, we thank you for your support and collaboration—your dedication energizes this movement and sustains our shared journey forward!
Join the Movement! Together, we’re activating positive change for communities across our region.
- Session Recordings: Whether you want to relive a favorite moment or catch up on sessions you missed, the full experience is now available to explore.
- Share Your Feedback: We value your input! Please take a moment to complete the Summit evaluation survey—your feedback will help shape future events.
- Join the January Regional Trail & Bikeway Committee Meeting: Register for our annual rapid-fire trail report-out. Hear exciting updates from trail partners across the Tri-State region and learn about the latest projects and plans shaping our communities.
- Become a Member: If you’re a professional working for a local government, nonprofit, or business, you can lend the weight of your company to our cause by becoming an organizational member.
- Double Your Impact: Support Tri-State Trails’ work today and double your impact! Thanks to a generous match, any donation made before the end of the year will be doubled, helping us build a more connected and vibrant region.
Summit Awards Ceremony
Advocate of the Year, Julia Keister: As a community leader, active board member of Queen City Bike, and co-owner of Roebling Books and Coffee, Julia Keister is celebrated for creating thoughtful, welcoming, and inclusive spaces and experiences for those around her. At our 2024 Summit, she was recognized for her leadership and vision in creating the Go with Glo Park in Covington, Kentucky—a space dedicated to the memory of Gloria San Miguel. The park reflects Gloria’s love for art, poetry, music, and bicycles and offers resources such as a large display of the Low-Stress Bike Map, a bicycle repair stand, and bike parking.
Organizations of the Year: Queen City Bike and MoBo Bicycle Co-op are celebrated for their year-round dedication to supporting bicyclists of all ages and skill levels and demonstrating that Bike Month can be celebrated every month!
These organizations are key partners in the Pop-Up Bike Shop series, a collaborative initiative hosting six annual events that offer free bicycle repairs and safety gear.
Beyond the Pop-Up Bike Shop series, both organizations give back in countless ways, from organizing group rides to hosting events like the upcoming Black Friday Fix-A-Thon and last weekend’s Cranksgiving. We’re thankful for all y’all do to support and strengthen our community!
Project of the Year: The Lick Run Greenway, developed by MSD of Greater Cincinnati, is a landmark project integrating stormwater management with neighborhood revitalization. This transformative initiative has redefined the landscape by unveiling the daylit Lick Run Creek and creating a sprawling waterway park with playgrounds, basketball courts, and winding paved trails.
Beyond its local benefits, the Greenway is a critical connection linking Cincinnati’s west side to downtown and plays a pivotal role in the CROWN urban trail loop. Its impact is far-reaching, addressing environmental challenges today and laying the groundwork for regional connectivity and vibrant public spaces for generations to come.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Don Mills
Don’s story is a powerful example of the perseverance and persistence needed to build trails and strengthen communities. Despite early resistance, he worked tirelessly with his neighbors and regional partners to overcome obstacles and make the Terrace Park trail a reality. As we move into the new year, let’s take inspiration from his dedication to continue building connections and advancing our own community efforts.
Thank you again for your continued support of Tri-State Trails!
As the Summit concluded, our 170+ participants left inspired and energized by discussions that highlighted trails as essential infrastructure for economic growth, community well-being, and regional connectivity. The event underscored the importance of collaboration in creating a more connected, accessible, and equitable trail network. We’re proud of the insights shared and progress made, and we look forward to building on this momentum for even greater impact in 2025!
