Mesa Verde National Park accepting applications for bike-rental operation

The Journal<br><br>Hikers and bikers take advantage of a recent Mesa Verde Bike and Hike event in September.

Mesa Verde National Park Superintendent Cliff Spencer announced Tuesday that the park will begin accepting applications for a commercial use authorization for bicycle rental operations on Wetherill Mesa in Mesa Verde National Park. The operation will also include stroller and wheel chair rentals.

The National Park Service will issue up to one authorization for a temporary bicycle rental operation at Wetherill Mesa parking area in Mesa Verde National Park. The permittee will be authorized to rent bicycles to park visitors for use on approved roadways and trails on Wetherill Mesa and will be responsible for providing and maintaining all rental equipment necessary for the operation, as well as temporary sales and storage facilities.

The National Park Service will issue the permit for an initial term of 12 months. The need for the authorization will be re-evaluated after the initial season.

The National Park Service will utilize information and data collected during the term of this CUA to aid in the transportation plan for Wetherill Mesa, and in determining how bicycle rental operations will be managed in the future.

A copy of the application and application instructions, along with 2015 visitation statistics for Wetherill Mesa, can be obtained by contacting the Mesa Verde National Park Concessions Management Division at 970-529-4613. In order to be considered completed applications must be received by March 4 at 4 p.m. Mountain time.

The National Park Service will review all applications, received by the closing date, and select the best qualified applicant to operate the bicycle rental.

For questions or additional information about the bicycle rental operation, please contact Dewey Higley, Concessions Management Specialist at 970-529-4613.

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