Dear BATS Trail Community,
As SVC prepares to close, during this time of transition, we have a few updates regarding current trailhead access and parking. Please look to our website, E-News, and Facebook page for updates as access may change again. We will share a press release with an update if necessary.
Trail Access and Parking
1 -Trail users wishing to park at SVC must check in with Campus Security at their booth/checkpoint by the Fieldhouse.
2 -Be respectful and express that you are there to use the trails. This applies if you are stopped while on campus as well.
3 -Parking during campus hours is preferred near the BATS kiosk at the south end of the Everett Mansion parking lot where BATS has designated parking signs, or alternatively at the Fieldhouse.
4 -Please keep all dogs on a leash on SVC property.
5 -Please avoid campus on Graduation Day, Saturday, May 18th.
Alternative Parking
-Alternative parking is still currently available at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center along Monument Ave or the Camelot Village/Garlic Fest field.
Refer to our trail map for trailhead access point at www.batsvt.org/trails or find us on TrailFinder.Info‘s VT Trail database (which we will update when necessary).
Going Forward
Once graduation has passed, BATS expects that the mortgage-holders (banks) will assume control of the campus at some point. BATS has had ongoing discussions with both the SVC Board of Trustees and bank representatives doing everything we can to ensure that access to the trails is maintained. We are presently optimistic that we will be able to maintain access to the trails with little interruption and will pass along any updates as soon as they are available. As these events unfold, it is imperative for ensuring longer-term access that trail users behave in a responsible manner and respect the wishes of the landowner during any (hopefully) temporary closures and/or changes to access points that they request.
Nothing is more clear to us than the value this trail system has to our community, and how much potential it has. We have heard from many people who use the trails who are members and volunteers, as well as many who aren’t our usual volunteers or members. We are and will be working to try and keep public recreation access open walkers, runners, hikers, bikers, nordic skiers, and snowshoers.
As we go through these difficult times as a community, we ask for your support. Reach out and volunteer, help out on trail work days, and join as a BATS member through the Vermont Mountain Bike Association. #BATSVT
Thank you,
Bennington Area Trail System Board of Directors