In the spring of 2021, the Adirondack Community Recreation Alliance (ACRA) awarded three grants to projects that will enhance recreation amenities to benefit Adirondack communities.

The Alliance is a group of community leaders, outdoor enthusiasts and local entrepreneurs dedicated to enhancing and developing recreation assets, increasing region-wide stewardship, and advancing policies to secure long-lasting community and economic benefits for Adirondack towns and villages.

The Northern Forest Center, which facilitates and participates in the Alliance, raised funds for this round of grants. The Alliance awarded approximately $9,000 to develop a pump track for cyclists in Keene, assess mountain biking trail options in Tupper Lake, and improve trails on Panther Mountain near Tupper Lake.

In Tupper Lake, the group Recreate Tupper Lake will evaluate the feasibility of developing new mountain bike trails on state land near Route 30 and support unit management planning. “Tupper Lake has been watching other communities reap the economic and recreational benefits of mountain bike trail networks,” said Matt Ellis of Recreate Tupper Lake. “We want to strengthen local assets and give mountain bikers a reason to stop and enjoy what Tupper Lake has to offer – and give locals who love to ride a fabulous option close to home.”

In Keene, the Keene Youth Commission will use its funding to select a site and develop plans for a pump track to enhance front-country recreation assets in the town.