PROVIDENCE, R.I. (BRAIN) — Cyclocross races are often held in public parks where officials and user groups are concerned about events’ impact. At the cyclocross national championships in Austin, Texas, earlier this year, for example, racing was delayed a day because a local tree advocacy group feared damage from the combination of a large rainstorm and the racing.
USA Cycling is now working with New England landscape architect Josh Burgel to develop a technical guide for cyclocross promoters working in public parks. The manual will set standard for course layout, preparation and renovation.
“We are excited about partnering with an expert like Josh Burgel to help cut through the myths and misunderstandings about the impact of cyclocross bicycles to landscapes and vegetation,” said Micah Rice, USA Cycling’s vice president of national events.
“We are very aware of the difficulties that cyclocross race directors are encountering when talking with their parks departments across the United States, and we look forward to creating a healthy discussion about cyclocross. Communication between race directors, parks-and-rec managers, arborists and landscapers are critical to the health of this quickly growing sport, and USA Cycling endeavors to be a resource for all of these groups. As cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, the love of nature and respect for our parks is important to all of us.”
Burgel worked with a team of other landscape professionals, including Eric Papetti and Donald Bishop, during 2014 to conduct frontline research using penetrometers (an instrument that measures how much force it takes to drive a rod or needle into soil) to determine the real impact of cyclocross on Roger Williams Park in Providence, the site of two national championships and six editions of the KMC Cyclo-cross Festival Presented by Maxxis, which is being held this weekend.
“As a landscape architect who designs parks and a dedicated cyclocross racer, it is an honor to combine my two passions to benefit the sport and our shared open spaces,” said Burgel. “This kind of event takes careful planning and communication between director and steward, and the end result is a great collaboration. My goal is to help navigate the sometimes treacherous landscape between a race director's goals and a park steward's mission.”
Burgel’s work both in Providence and for USA Cycling will guide both race promoters and park managers to create exciting events that, if properly managed, can revitalize park usage for the 21st Century.
Providence park superintendent Wendy Nilsson said, “We are redefining the ways our parks are used; not only through the amenities we offer, but how we work with residents and community partners to bring relevant programming and activities into our parks that engage and inspire … Cyclocross is one of those non-traditional activities where there is clearly a demand and is suitable for many abilities and generations. We are looking at creative ways of keeping the historical context and beautiful landscape, while providing unique experiences to explore and play in our parks.”
