DEEP Seeks Feedback on State Park Bike Rentals
Connecticut's environmental agency is asking the public to weigh in on a proposal to add bicycle rentals and optional shuttles at state park trails.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in National Parks
Live Poll
Would you rent a bicycle to ride a Connecticut state park trail?
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is seeking public feedback on a proposed Request for Proposals for bicycle rentals on state park linear trails. The proposal also includes optional shuttle services, and public comments are due by Nov. 20.
Why it matters
DEEP officials said they frequently hear requests for more opportunities to rent recreational equipment, including bikes. The proposal is part of the agency's Partnerships in Parks Initiative, which aims to bring businesses, nonprofits, community groups and the public together to expand access to outdoor recreation.
DEEP proposes bicycle rentals at five trailhead locations, including Pomfret Center, Colchester, Bolton, Sterling and Simsbury, with public comments due Nov. 20 by email to DEEP.parksdivisionRFP@ct.gov. The formal selection of rental providers has not yet been determined.
The players
Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP)
The state agency that manages Connecticut's state parks and trails and is seeking public input on the proposed bicycle rental program.
The details
Comments may be submitted by email to DEEP.parksdivisionRFP@ct.gov with the subject line "Bicycle Rentals Proposed RFP Comments." After reviewing feedback, DEEP may announce and release a formal Request for Proposals for which bike rental providers' proposals would be accepted.
Timeline
Nov. 20: Deadline for public comments on the proposed bicycle rentals.
Travel Outlook
The proposal extends the Partnerships in Parks Initiative's stated goal of expanding outdoor recreation access by bringing private providers into state park trail use. It follows that initiative's model of inviting businesses and community groups to share in park services.
Residents and visitors who enjoy biking on Connecticut state park trails may eventually be able to rent bicycles at five proposed trailhead locations. Comments on the proposal are due by Nov. 20 if you want to weigh in.
The takeaway
Public comment periods like this one give residents a direct way to shape how state parks are used. Anyone interested in trail access can submit feedback by Nov. 20.
What happens next
DEEP will review public feedback on the proposed bicycle rentals and may then release a formal Request for Proposals. Comments are due Nov. 20.
Further reading
Explore more about National Parks across Connecticut for additional context on the state's trail network.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WTNH.
Live Poll
Would you rent a bicycle to ride a Connecticut state park trail?
