Kevin was drawn to BikeNet originally because of the camaraderie intrinsic with the organization. An active trail user, Kevin was excited to find a group of like-minded people who were also excited about hiking and biking on the trails. As he learned a bit more about BikeNet, Kevin realized that there was a lot to be done. “This started for me because I wanted to change my little part of the world” Kevin says.

Over the past year, Kevin has done just that. As a board and trails committee member, Kevin took on the job of advocating for a bike lane on Lewis Avenue. “I’d see a lot of people riding on the sidewalks which you’re not really supposed to do, but they’re afraid to ride on the roads. One of the big advantages of having bike lanes is not only do you feel safer because you know that you’re supposed to be there and cars know that you’re supposed to be there, but cars are a lot more respectful because they know what to expect” Kevin explains.

Kevin sprinkles cycling pixi-dust (reflective material) on the newly painted bike sign.

After considering bike lanes on Lewis Ave. eight or nine years ago, the City of Billings revisited the issue again this spring. In August, the city approached BikeNet about funding signs and sharrow markings. The project was completed in early October, with the City paying for lane striping and BikeNet, together with Lucky’s Market, RiverStone Health and St. Vincent Healthcare contributing funds for signs and markings. “It was nice to see it come to fruition. We started working on it in springtime and by winter it was done.”

In addition to getting new trails created, Kevin also wants to help maintain the trails. “We work pretty hard to get more trails. There doesn’t appear to be any budget or funding to maintain those trails. Is it possible that we may be able to fund some of the equipment to maintain the trails? Is it possible that we may be able to help with volunteers to maintain some of the trails,” Kevin wonders. Not one to waste time, this fall Kevin was able to volunteer at Refresh the Rims where he helped the Parks Department clean up trash and broken glass.

Kevin with New Belgium Brewing Fat Tire Bike winner.

Last spring, Kevin became BikeNet’s Events Committee chairman, and took on much of the planning for Ales for Trails. With the fresh perspective and creativity of a former business owner, he suggested that BikeNet provide a special entrance for bicyclists to alleviate congestion at the main entry lines.  He revised ticket pre-event sales and added more ticket outlets so shops like The Base Camp, Anytime Fitness and all area bike shops were able to sell tickets to Ales for Trails through their closing time on the day of the event.

This outstanding board member’s final project for the year was to work with the city to create a uniform standard for downtown bike racks. “There are some bike racks downtown, but they don’t really hold your bike very well.” Kevin explains. In partnership with the city, Kevin selected locations for the new bike racks and worked with a manufacturer to get the new bike racks made. They will be installed in the spring once the weather warms up a bit.

What is his key to success? “Take a baby step. With surprisingly little effort you can get a lot done.”