To the BOS,
I am a 63 year old county resident who has enjoyed hiking and bicycling at RMR. The RMR is a beautiful and unique resource for active residents of the Albemarle/C'ville area that should be re-opened to bicycle use. The county ordinance from 1981 did not prohibit mountain biking at RMR, it simply did not include bicycling because mountain biking did not exist as an activity in this area at that time. 5 or more years of shared use at RMR has proven that hikers and bicyclists can co-exist in harmony on these trails. Experience on the multiuse trails at Walnut Creek and Preddy Creek add further evidence that these trails can be enjoyed by all. Creative suggestions such as hiker only trails or shared use days could easily be adopted to allow all groups to enjoy this area in their preferred way. Thank you for your consideration.
As an outdoor enthusiast, walker, runner, long time supporter of and visitor to the Ragged Mountain Reservoir, I am writing to express my concern at the recent proposed limitations to access and use by cyclists and runners. A great deal of the maintenance, care and stewardship of the RMR trail system is tended to by members of these two groups. The trail systems has long been a wonderful resource for recreation, fitness and enjoyment. I strongly oppose the proposed limits and hope that the RMR will remain accessible. Thanks for your time, service and consideration.
Keeping our community active and moving is important. I support shared use of Ragged Mountain Reservoir whether it be running, biking, and hiking. Let's give the entire community a chance to enjoy this special resource while enjoying a healthy and active lifestyle.
Good Day - At a time when so many groups are fighting for inclusion and fairness to all, I would urge the BOS to consider the overall impact to the community by electing to make the Ragged Mountain Area exclusive and not open to all. The Ragged Mountain Natural Area is not a private park, but a state and locally maintained area that has enjoyed cohesive shared usage of the trails by all the past few years. Much of the maintenance and expansion has been completed by CAMBC and the mountain bike community along with CATs. The arguments presented to the BOS regarding impact to the area have been proven to be inaccurate. The use of the trails should be open to all, whether you walk, ride a bike or wish to run. The Ragged Mountain Reservoir is a hidden gem in the heart of Albemarle County and should be allowed to be embraced by all. Thank you for your time and consideration - Bill Scanlon - Rio District - Ned Galloway - PLEASE HELP!!!
To the Albemarle BOS.
I am a resident of the City of Charlottesville and I am writing to express my support for reopening the trails at Ragged Mountain Reservoir to all trail users including runners and cyclists. During the pandemic, riding on the trails at Ragged played a major role in maintaining my mental health and I have been disheartened by the recent loss of access. Please consider updating County Code.
Adding my voice in support of making the Ragged Reservoir trails shared use for bikes and foot traffic. I won't reiterate the objections many others have already stated. How can we in the user community address the concerns and find a way forward to open Ragged for everyone?
Dear Reader, I write to you as an athlete who grew up in the surrounding area of Charlottesville. I have enjoyed walking, running and biking at Ragged for as long as I can remember. I’ve lived a lot of places but one of the things that brought me back to my hometown was knowing that I had quick access to beautiful landscapes to get a long run in or squeeze in a bike ride after work. Ragged has been a mainstay and crucial part of this equation. I am saddened—that might seem dramatic but it’s very true—to think I might only be able to walk the loop. I love walking, but I love walk/running, walk/running/biking significantly more. As a teen therapist, getting my heart rate up is a critical part of my mental healthcare protocol and it will legitimately change my ways of tending to this if Ragged is restricted to walking. I appreciate you considering, zooming out and looking at the big picture of the implications this choice could make on community mental health and wellness. Best, Julia
BOS,
Bikers are not asking for special treatment, just equal treatment. For all users to enjoy Ragged Mountain. Multi-use trails (and the etiquette accompanied) is a modern day solution and there are plenty of alternatives, such as dedicated activity and directional based days, for everyone to enjoy the Reservoir. Trails build communities build trails.
-HQ
I recently moved to Charlottesville from Belgium, where trails connect every village, serving not just as recreation but vital transportation. Here, I joined the CAMBC Ladies' group, a wonderful community of women who bike together weekly. Unfortunately, I've never had the opportunity to ride at Ragged Mountain due to the existing biking ban. This restriction feels not only like a loss to our vibrant biking community but also diminishes a safe and inclusive space for women cyclists. Lifting this ban would not only restore access to a cherished local resource but also support our community’s health, inclusivity, and connection. Let’s make Ragged Mountain accessible again to everyone, fostering a more welcoming and active Charlottesville.
Resident of the City of Charlottesville
I am writing to re-iterate my support for changing the county code and opening up Ragged Mountain to all types of trail users - runners, bikers, hikers, birders, and dog walkers. Its proximity to town makes it an ideal resource in maintaining both physical and mental health. I am confident that the county can find a solution that meets the needs of those seeking a quiet trail experience without excluding any particular group of trail users. I think the proposed solution of a shared use loop at Ragged Mountain to complement the hiker only trails is an excellent idea. My family would regularly use both of them!!!
Dear BOS, I grew up in Charlottesville and have been biking in Charlottesville since I was a child. Part of the reason I choose to live in town is the easy access to the outdoors and growing trail systems. I would like to see the board support all outdoor activities, inclusive of cycling at Ragged Mountain.
Members of the Board: I'm John Imbrie, UVA faculty member, County resident. Due to its proximity to the University, I frequent the Ragged Mountain Reservoir trails both as a hiker and a biker. It would be a very disappointing to lose the opportunity to enjoy the trails as a bicyclist. I think the last five years have demonstrated that hikers and bikers can share this valuable resource without interfering with the enjoyment of either group. And it is clear that there is no difference between hiking and biking as far as impacts on the reservoir are concerned. The CAMBC is committed to continue its public service work maintaining the trails to manage all traffic and prevent erosion.
To the members of the board,
At the time of writing this comment, 85 other comments have been posted, all of which heavily support inclusivity and the changing of the code to allow running, mountain biking, dog walking, and other recreational uses. I am a senior at Albemarle high school and on the Albemarle mountain biking team. For me, removing mountain biking from Ragged Mountain Reserve has significant implications. It's not just about leisure or exercise; it's about community, passion, and personal growth. As well as this, it has been shown by the Rivanna Water and Sewer Authority that there would be no adverse affect to the water quality from recreational activities at the reservoir. Please reconsider and allow all types of recreational activities at Ragged Mountain and stop being exclusive. Thank you.
I would like to ask for full access for biking, running, hiking and more for the ragged mountain park. This has always been such a gorgeous park with amazing access for all ages and to have that access denied in a city that promotes their amazing outdoor lifestyle makes absolutely no sense! Please reinstate access to all. Thank you.
The trails at Ragged Mountain are unique in that they're accessible to town, are beginner friendly, and have plenty of space for all users to share and enjoy responsibly. As a parent, biker, hiker, paddler, nature lover, and long-time County resident, I strongly urge you to reconsider the code and open beautiful Ragged Mountain to all users.
From someone who cares for the well-being of nature above all else; if the ruling stands that, due to the environmental impact, access should be restricted for some, then it should be restricted for all. When I volunteered with the Nature Conservancy, never once was it mentioned that cyclists damaged the lands where trails were built sustainably. If anything, hikers can cause more damage to the trails than cyclists (https://www.americantrails.org/resources/natural-resource-impacts-of-mountain-biking). If you claim its a safety issue to have cyclists on the same trails as hikers and runners, then assign the inner and outer loops to each group. When I have hiked at Ragged, I've seen more damage caused by other people on foot walking off trail and trampling the wildlife, or dropping their wrappers and trash without regard to who will clean up their mess. If you feel so strongly that cyclists and runners do not belong at Ragged, then no one deserves to be there.
Board member - Charlottesville Area Mountain bike Club.
I'm writing to express my support for a shared use loop at Ragged Mountain(to include running and hiking)to complement the hiker only trails there. A plan was put in place through a public process 8 years ago for a 6-1/2 mile shared use loop allowing bikes and also 7-1/2 miles of hiking trails. No need to re-invent the wheel. The code needs to be changed to allow this to move forward and make Ragged Mountain a great destination for outdoor activity and fitness for all users. Thanks for considering.
Members of the Board, I would urge you to change the code to allow running and mountain biking at Ragged Mountain Reservoir, along with hiking and walking. In no way does allowing running and bicycling harm water quality or negatively affect the flora and fauna. The mountain bike community is supportive of helping this Ragged remain a place to “be in nature” and purely wants this to be accessible to everyone. As a member of CAMBC, these trails have allowed mountain bikers not only the chance to ride, but also many opportunities to grow a strong community in collaboration with other users/user groups to build and maintain this valuable resource.
To the Alb County BOS,
I write again to urge you to change the code re: Ragged Mtn Reservoir so that it does not prohibit all activities excepting three. Given all of the research and information gathered, it is clear that activities like running and biking do not pose a threat to the water quality, the wildlife or the vegetation at the Reservoir. Additionally, the people who engage in these activities are often the ones doing the work to preserve/maintain the trails so that they are an asset to the natural area rather than a detriment. It’s clear that the County wants its citizens to be healthy and to enjoy our outdoor recreational spaces. As Ragged is one of the few that provides access to citizens of all ages and abilities, changing the code is the logical next step in this process. Thank you for shepherding us through this process - I feel optimistic that your willingness to engage in this important discussion means we will have change soon! Best, Rachel Lloyd Miller
To the BOS,
I am a 63 year old county resident who has enjoyed hiking and bicycling at RMR. The RMR is a beautiful and unique resource for active residents of the Albemarle/C'ville area that should be re-opened to bicycle use. The county ordinance from 1981 did not prohibit mountain biking at RMR, it simply did not include bicycling because mountain biking did not exist as an activity in this area at that time. 5 or more years of shared use at RMR has proven that hikers and bicyclists can co-exist in harmony on these trails. Experience on the multiuse trails at Walnut Creek and Preddy Creek add further evidence that these trails can be enjoyed by all. Creative suggestions such as hiker only trails or shared use days could easily be adopted to allow all groups to enjoy this area in their preferred way. Thank you for your consideration.
As an outdoor enthusiast, walker, runner, long time supporter of and visitor to the Ragged Mountain Reservoir, I am writing to express my concern at the recent proposed limitations to access and use by cyclists and runners. A great deal of the maintenance, care and stewardship of the RMR trail system is tended to by members of these two groups. The trail systems has long been a wonderful resource for recreation, fitness and enjoyment. I strongly oppose the proposed limits and hope that the RMR will remain accessible. Thanks for your time, service and consideration.
Keeping our community active and moving is important. I support shared use of Ragged Mountain Reservoir whether it be running, biking, and hiking. Let's give the entire community a chance to enjoy this special resource while enjoying a healthy and active lifestyle.
Good Day - At a time when so many groups are fighting for inclusion and fairness to all, I would urge the BOS to consider the overall impact to the community by electing to make the Ragged Mountain Area exclusive and not open to all. The Ragged Mountain Natural Area is not a private park, but a state and locally maintained area that has enjoyed cohesive shared usage of the trails by all the past few years. Much of the maintenance and expansion has been completed by CAMBC and the mountain bike community along with CATs. The arguments presented to the BOS regarding impact to the area have been proven to be inaccurate. The use of the trails should be open to all, whether you walk, ride a bike or wish to run. The Ragged Mountain Reservoir is a hidden gem in the heart of Albemarle County and should be allowed to be embraced by all. Thank you for your time and consideration - Bill Scanlon - Rio District - Ned Galloway - PLEASE HELP!!!
To the Albemarle BOS.
I am a resident of the City of Charlottesville and I am writing to express my support for reopening the trails at Ragged Mountain Reservoir to all trail users including runners and cyclists. During the pandemic, riding on the trails at Ragged played a major role in maintaining my mental health and I have been disheartened by the recent loss of access. Please consider updating County Code.
Adding my voice in support of making the Ragged Reservoir trails shared use for bikes and foot traffic. I won't reiterate the objections many others have already stated. How can we in the user community address the concerns and find a way forward to open Ragged for everyone?
Dear Reader, I write to you as an athlete who grew up in the surrounding area of Charlottesville. I have enjoyed walking, running and biking at Ragged for as long as I can remember. I’ve lived a lot of places but one of the things that brought me back to my hometown was knowing that I had quick access to beautiful landscapes to get a long run in or squeeze in a bike ride after work. Ragged has been a mainstay and crucial part of this equation. I am saddened—that might seem dramatic but it’s very true—to think I might only be able to walk the loop. I love walking, but I love walk/running, walk/running/biking significantly more. As a teen therapist, getting my heart rate up is a critical part of my mental healthcare protocol and it will legitimately change my ways of tending to this if Ragged is restricted to walking. I appreciate you considering, zooming out and looking at the big picture of the implications this choice could make on community mental health and wellness. Best, Julia
BOS,
Bikers are not asking for special treatment, just equal treatment. For all users to enjoy Ragged Mountain. Multi-use trails (and the etiquette accompanied) is a modern day solution and there are plenty of alternatives, such as dedicated activity and directional based days, for everyone to enjoy the Reservoir. Trails build communities build trails.
-HQ
I recently moved to Charlottesville from Belgium, where trails connect every village, serving not just as recreation but vital transportation. Here, I joined the CAMBC Ladies' group, a wonderful community of women who bike together weekly. Unfortunately, I've never had the opportunity to ride at Ragged Mountain due to the existing biking ban. This restriction feels not only like a loss to our vibrant biking community but also diminishes a safe and inclusive space for women cyclists. Lifting this ban would not only restore access to a cherished local resource but also support our community’s health, inclusivity, and connection. Let’s make Ragged Mountain accessible again to everyone, fostering a more welcoming and active Charlottesville.
Resident of the City of Charlottesville
I am writing to re-iterate my support for changing the county code and opening up Ragged Mountain to all types of trail users - runners, bikers, hikers, birders, and dog walkers. Its proximity to town makes it an ideal resource in maintaining both physical and mental health. I am confident that the county can find a solution that meets the needs of those seeking a quiet trail experience without excluding any particular group of trail users. I think the proposed solution of a shared use loop at Ragged Mountain to complement the hiker only trails is an excellent idea. My family would regularly use both of them!!!
Dear BOS, I grew up in Charlottesville and have been biking in Charlottesville since I was a child. Part of the reason I choose to live in town is the easy access to the outdoors and growing trail systems. I would like to see the board support all outdoor activities, inclusive of cycling at Ragged Mountain.
Please reconsider the code and open ragged to all users.
Members of the Board: I'm John Imbrie, UVA faculty member, County resident. Due to its proximity to the University, I frequent the Ragged Mountain Reservoir trails both as a hiker and a biker. It would be a very disappointing to lose the opportunity to enjoy the trails as a bicyclist. I think the last five years have demonstrated that hikers and bikers can share this valuable resource without interfering with the enjoyment of either group. And it is clear that there is no difference between hiking and biking as far as impacts on the reservoir are concerned. The CAMBC is committed to continue its public service work maintaining the trails to manage all traffic and prevent erosion.
To the members of the board,
At the time of writing this comment, 85 other comments have been posted, all of which heavily support inclusivity and the changing of the code to allow running, mountain biking, dog walking, and other recreational uses. I am a senior at Albemarle high school and on the Albemarle mountain biking team. For me, removing mountain biking from Ragged Mountain Reserve has significant implications. It's not just about leisure or exercise; it's about community, passion, and personal growth. As well as this, it has been shown by the Rivanna Water and Sewer Authority that there would be no adverse affect to the water quality from recreational activities at the reservoir. Please reconsider and allow all types of recreational activities at Ragged Mountain and stop being exclusive. Thank you.
I would like to ask for full access for biking, running, hiking and more for the ragged mountain park. This has always been such a gorgeous park with amazing access for all ages and to have that access denied in a city that promotes their amazing outdoor lifestyle makes absolutely no sense! Please reinstate access to all. Thank you.
The trails at Ragged Mountain are unique in that they're accessible to town, are beginner friendly, and have plenty of space for all users to share and enjoy responsibly. As a parent, biker, hiker, paddler, nature lover, and long-time County resident, I strongly urge you to reconsider the code and open beautiful Ragged Mountain to all users.
From someone who cares for the well-being of nature above all else; if the ruling stands that, due to the environmental impact, access should be restricted for some, then it should be restricted for all. When I volunteered with the Nature Conservancy, never once was it mentioned that cyclists damaged the lands where trails were built sustainably. If anything, hikers can cause more damage to the trails than cyclists (https://www.americantrails.org/resources/natural-resource-impacts-of-mountain-biking). If you claim its a safety issue to have cyclists on the same trails as hikers and runners, then assign the inner and outer loops to each group. When I have hiked at Ragged, I've seen more damage caused by other people on foot walking off trail and trampling the wildlife, or dropping their wrappers and trash without regard to who will clean up their mess. If you feel so strongly that cyclists and runners do not belong at Ragged, then no one deserves to be there.
Board member - Charlottesville Area Mountain bike Club.
I'm writing to express my support for a shared use loop at Ragged Mountain(to include running and hiking)to complement the hiker only trails there. A plan was put in place through a public process 8 years ago for a 6-1/2 mile shared use loop allowing bikes and also 7-1/2 miles of hiking trails. No need to re-invent the wheel. The code needs to be changed to allow this to move forward and make Ragged Mountain a great destination for outdoor activity and fitness for all users. Thanks for considering.
Members of the Board, I would urge you to change the code to allow running and mountain biking at Ragged Mountain Reservoir, along with hiking and walking. In no way does allowing running and bicycling harm water quality or negatively affect the flora and fauna. The mountain bike community is supportive of helping this Ragged remain a place to “be in nature” and purely wants this to be accessible to everyone. As a member of CAMBC, these trails have allowed mountain bikers not only the chance to ride, but also many opportunities to grow a strong community in collaboration with other users/user groups to build and maintain this valuable resource.
To the Alb County BOS,
I write again to urge you to change the code re: Ragged Mtn Reservoir so that it does not prohibit all activities excepting three. Given all of the research and information gathered, it is clear that activities like running and biking do not pose a threat to the water quality, the wildlife or the vegetation at the Reservoir. Additionally, the people who engage in these activities are often the ones doing the work to preserve/maintain the trails so that they are an asset to the natural area rather than a detriment. It’s clear that the County wants its citizens to be healthy and to enjoy our outdoor recreational spaces. As Ragged is one of the few that provides access to citizens of all ages and abilities, changing the code is the logical next step in this process. Thank you for shepherding us through this process - I feel optimistic that your willingness to engage in this important discussion means we will have change soon! Best, Rachel Lloyd Miller