Dear Mr. Schuckman,

Like several other hikers and runners that regularly enjoy the beauty of Mt. Airy, I appreciate the natural and safe environment you and your board have created for us. The peacefulness we find at Mt. Airy is unique for a metropolitan park and a great natural resource for this city.

I recently have heard that discussions are in place to transform portions of the Mt. Airy trails into multi-use surfaces, specifically allowing access to mountain bikes. Because of this, I am writing to express my concern and asking your help to ensure your pedestrian users are heard before any decisions are made to open access of the trails to mountain bikes.

Mountain bikes can be very dangerous for hikers, runners, and pets enjoying the trails. In hilly terrains such as those found at Mt. Airy, bikes can often gain high speeds that make it difficult to brake in time to ensure pedestrian safety. Not only is this a hazard in itself, but it forces pedestrians to then have a higher level of alertness when on the trails, jeopardizing one of the greatest benefits we find at Mt. Airy, which is that peacefulness we have enjoyed for so many years.

We ask you make all efforts to listen to the concerns of your pedestrian users. We are not as organized as CORA and other biking organizations, but we are the largest users of trail systems. We contribute regularly with unsolicited trail cleanup, promotion of the park and the foot-races it sponsors on social media, and direct donations from those same races.

Thank you for your support and consideration.