Bike League welcomes Will Simpson to Fellowship Program
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The League of American Bicyclists has announced Will Simpson as its newest fellow, bringing a passion for cycling and a background in policy advocacy to the association. Simpson’s arrival marks a new phase in the League’s commitment to expanding bicycle-friendly infrastructure and policies nationwide.
Simpson’s connection to cycling began in Northern California, mountain biking with his father. Though he stepped away from regular riding during middle school after moving to Connecticut and focusing on organized sports, he rediscovered his enthusiasm during the pandemic, now regularly logging miles on both gravel and mountain bike trails.
Currently, Simpson rides a Canyon grizl gravel bike, which also serves as his commuter bike, and a 2004 Specialized mountain bike for more challenging terrain. He finds inspiration in the immersive experience cycling provides, noting the unique sights, sounds, and smells often missed when traveling by car. He also values the discovery of hidden gems – local cafés and farm stands – accessible only by bike, and the camaraderie within the cycling community.
“What inspires me about cycling is how much you can experience during a longer ride – new sights, sounds, and smells,” Simpson stated. “It is notably enthralling because many of the sensory experiences are things that you may otherwise miss if you were traveling by car.”
Simpson frequently explores routes near Washington, D.C., including out-and-backs on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath, and longer excursions around the Frederick City Watershed in Maryland, where he enjoys the network of flowy downhill mountain bike trails and hilly unpaved roads.
During his year-long fellowship with the League, Simpson aims to deepen his understanding of the active transportation landscape in the U.S.and learn effective strategies for advocating for bicycle-friendly policies beyond his fellowship.
