The University of Montevallo received a $20,000 grant from the Cawaco Resource Conservation & Development Council that has gone toward refurbishing a pre-existing structure into a multi-purpose storage room for UM’s cycling team.
The grant funds are available through a partnership between Cawaco RC&D and the Alabama State Legislature. Cawaco RC&D is a nonprofit organization that connects Central Alabama communities to resources and partnerships needed to spur economic development in an environmentally sustainable way.
“Cawaco RC&D prioritizes projects that can drive economic development in a way that balances human and natural resources,” said Erin Hackenmueller, communications specialist for Cawaco RC&D. “The University of Montevallo’s mountain biking course has already had positive health and economic impacts on the community. As health and outdoor recreation both receive a bigger spotlight in Alabama, it’s great to see a place for UM students to explore those interests in a space that fosters learning and community.”
The recently completed multi-purpose room will enhance the cycling team’s training experience, providing a reliable and climate-controlled place to store their bikes and a designated maintenance and repair bike station. Additional space will accommodate two spin bikes and five bike trainers, providing team members with a place to warm up before races or train when the weather isn’t ideal for riding outdoors.
The UM cycling team was created in fall 2021, growing from three cyclists in its initial year to 17 members for the 2024-2025 academic year. The team races in mountain, bike, road, cyclocross, BMX and gravel. For more information about UM cycling, visit montevallofalcons.com/sports/cyclingbiking.
