DEEP Seeks Public Comment On Possible Bicycle Rental Offerings Along Four Linear CT State Park Trails

Comments Due November 20, 2026, For New Program in DEEP’s Partnerships in Parks Initiative

(HARTFORD) — The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is inviting the public to help shape plans to offer bicycle rentals along four Connecticut State Park trails. DEEP is seeking feedback on a proposed Request for Proposals (RFP) for bicycle rentals and optional shuttle services as part of its Partnerships in Parks Initiative.

Led by DEEP's Office of Outdoor Industry and Experiences, the Partnerships in Parks Initiative brings together businesses, nonprofits, community groups, and the public to explore new ways to enjoy Connecticut's State Parks, expand access to outdoor recreation, and support tourism.

One of the most common requests DEEP has heard from the public through the Partnership initiative is for more opportunities to rent recreational equipment, including bicycles. In response to that feedback, DEEP is exploring offering an opportunity for vendors to provide bicycle rental services along some of Connecticut's most popular multi-use trails. Before moving forward, DEEP wants to hear from both the public and potential bike rental providers about what these services should look like, where they would be most useful, and how they could best serve trail visitors.

Bicycle rentals are being considered along the Air Line State Park Trail, Hop River State Park Trail, Moosup Valley State Park Trail, and Farmington River Trail. Optional shuttle services could also allow visitors to ride between two locations without having to return to their starting point. Bike rentals would make it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy Connecticut’s scenic trails, especially those who don’t own a bike or have a convenient way to transport one to the trail. Bike rentals could help boost tourism as well to local businesses located near the trail.

Feedback received on this proposed RFP will help DEEP better understand impacts to the park visitor experience as well as interest from potential operators. The following locations are currently being considered:

Air Line State Park Trail, Trailhead at “Pomfret Station” on Railroad Street, Pomfret Center
Air Line State Park Trail, Trailheads at Air Line State Park Parking Lot Hebron and Salmon River Parking, 208 River Road in Colchester
Hop River State Park Trail, Trailhead at Bolton Notch State Park, Bolton
Moosup Valley State Park Trail, Trailhead at Moosup Rail Trail Parking, Sterling
Farmington River Trail at Stratton Brook State Park in Simsbury

“Connecticut’s State Parks offer some of the best outdoor experiences in New England, and our scenic trails are a great way to explore everything that makes Connecticut such a great place to live, work, and play,” said DEEP Acting Commissioner Emma Cimino. “By offering bike rentals, we can give residents and tourists exciting new ways to discover the communities and natural spaces connected by these trails, from charming downtowns and local businesses to forests, rivers, and scenic landscapes.”

“We’re excited to explore partnerships that expand bicycle rentals, create new ways for people to enjoy Connecticut’s State Park trails, and boost tourism,” said Jeff Shaw, Director of DEEP’s Office of Outdoor Industry and Experiences. “We encourage park visitors, local residents, and bicycle rental providers to review the proposed RFP and share their feedback by November 20.”

DEEP asks the public to review the Proposed RFP and comment on the questions listed therein. Comments are due November 20, 2026 and can be submitted by email to DEEP.parksdivisionRFP@ct.gov with the subject line “Bicycle Rentals Proposed RFP Comments.”

The Bicycle Rentals Proposed RFP may be viewed at this link on the DEEP website or on the CTsource Bid Board – search for Solicitation # DEEP-2027-006-MM.

At this time, DEEP is only seeking public comments on the proposed RFP. This is not yet a call for formal proposals from bike rental providers. After the comment period concludes, DEEP will review and consider the feedback received, and may announce and release a formal RFP for which proposals will be accepted.

Led by DEEP’s Office of Outdoor Industry and Experiences, the Partnership in Parks Initiative aims to elevate outdoor recreation and visitor experiences, expand access to the outdoors, and strengthen Connecticut’s State Parks as tourism destinations.

Earlier this year, DEEP announced new, multi-year paddlecraft rental services that were offered in five State Parks. Businesses, non-profits or individuals with additional partnership ideas are welcome to submit suggestions to DEEP’s Partnerships in Parks Request for Information (RFI) on a rolling basis.

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Contact

DEEP Communications
DEEP.Communications@ct.gov
860-424-4100

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