David Thompson

David Thompson

Trail Advocacy Writer
David Thompson is a cycling advocate and writer specializing in rail trail development and active transportation policy in New England.

Areas of Expertise

Rail Trail Development

Documentation and analysis of rail trail conversion projects throughout New England with focus on design standards and best practices

Cycling Advocacy

Community organizing and policy advocacy for improved bicycle infrastructure and multi-use path systems

Active Transportation Policy

Research and writing on transportation planning policies that support walking and cycling as practical mobility options

Community Engagement

Strategies for public participation in trail planning including design hearings, volunteer coordination, and stakeholder communication

Education & Qualifications

  • Master of Regional Planning
    University of Massachusetts Amherst, 2012

    Thesis: Economic Impact of Rail Trail Development in Rural New England Communities

  • Bachelor of Arts in Geography
    Williams College, 2008

    Magna Cum Laude

  • Professional Certifications
    League Cycling Instructor (LCI), 2013

    League of American Bicyclists

Recent Publications

  • Rail Trails as Economic Development Tools in Western Massachusetts
    Journal of Regional Planning, Vol 18 No 3
    2019

    Analysis of tourism spending patterns and property value impacts near completed rail trail segments in Berkshire County

  • Community Engagement Strategies for Multi-Use Path Planning
    Active Transportation Quarterly, Vol 12 No 2
    2020

    Case studies examining public participation methods in trail design processes across New England

  • Environmental Benefits of Railway Corridor Conversion Projects
    Sustainable Communities Review, Vol 9 No 4
    2021

    Research on habitat connectivity and stormwater management improvements resulting from rail trail development

Awards & Recognition

  • Excellence in Cycling Advocacy Award
    Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition, 2020

    Recognition for contributions to rail trail promotion and bicycle infrastructure advocacy in Western Massachusetts

  • Regional Planning Achievement Award
    American Planning Association Massachusetts Chapter, 2021

    Honored for work documenting and promoting multi-use trail development as transportation infrastructure

  • Outstanding Alumni Award
    UMass Amherst Department of Landscape Architecture and Regional Planning, 2023

    Recognition for professional achievements in active transportation planning and community development

Professional Experience

  • Trail Advocacy Writer
    Berkshire Bike Path Council, 2016-Present

    Research and writing on rail trail development projects, policy analysis, and community engagement strategies for Berkshire County trail initiatives

  • Regional Planner
    Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, 2013-2016

    Transportation planning with emphasis on bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, grant writing, and municipal technical assistance

  • GIS Analyst
    Massachusetts Department of Transportation, 2010-2013

    Spatial analysis and mapping for bicycle and pedestrian projects including rail trail corridor identification and feasibility assessment

Articles by David Thompson