Best public bike initiative - Duluth Traverse - 2014 Best of MN

This could be a breakout year for the Duluth Traverse, the 100-mile mountain biking and hiking trail that connects trail networks across Duluth. The DT is still years from completion, but if all goes as planned it will grow by 20 miles this summer as trail builders carve sections from the Duluth woods. Thanks to several existing trail systems, the Traverse already spans 35 miles, according to Adam Sundberg, a West Duluth chiropractor who's leading the charge. State and federal grants, private donations from individuals and companies have helped pay for trail-building equipment and workers' salaries. Plus a new partnership with the city of Duluth brings $100,000 annually. At a cost of up to $42,000 per mile, the trail could ring in at $2 million, says Sundberg. If grants and donations continue, the trail could be complete in five years. An off-road century ride can't be far behind. strib.mn/1kDbSAF