Thanks to the state Department of Transportation and the efforts of local residents, Scotland County has a new map that highlights bicycling routes for cycling enthusiasts and others to enjoy.

"The map project has been a joint effort by the Scotland County Parks and Recreation department and the NCDOT," said county Parks and Rec Director Shannon Newton. "It's a very exciting, positive development for the county, and a good tool for promoting physical activity."

The 147-mile system, divided into three routes through the countryside and passing by various points of interest in Scotland County, includes historical churches and part of the North Carolina Civil War Trail among its attractions.

Ray Fidler, chairman of the county bicycling committee, called a meeting of the committee on Monday to decide how best to disseminate the maps to the public.

"The purpose of the meeting was to unveil the brochure and for members to brainstorm ways to make the best use of the map," Fidler said. "We want everyone to know that the routes detailed on the new map are not only great for bikers, but will work equally as well for motorcyclists, hikers, and automobile drivers to see county historical sites and learn more about the area. I think of this project as a great tool for tourism."

Fidler divided the 13 in attendance into smaller groups to better facilitate ideas.

Ideas promoted by the groups included making the maps available at retail locations that promoted cycling and other outdoor sports, increasing awareness of the maps through internet links at various locations, and by making the new map available at local events such as the John Blue Festival and the Scotland County Highland Games.

"The Habitat for Humanity Bike to Build event has a mailing list that is 900 strong," committee member and Bike to Build Chairman Vic Celadon said. "I am certain a lot of these participants would be interested in this."

Other points of distribution that were discussed included local fitness centers, newspaper and radio coverage, state and regional welcome centers, Cypress Bend Vineyards, and listing on the "Active Laurinburg" website. A followup meeting is planned to execute the ideas that were discussed Monday.

Bicyclists may order a copy of the map by going to www.ncdot.gov/travel/mappubs/bikemaps/default.html, by calling 919-807-0777, or by visiting the Parks and Recreation offices on Turnpike Road in Laurinburg.

Copies of the map were financed in full by the NCDOT.

For information on bicycle safety and laws pertaining to the operation of a bicycle, visit the Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation’s Web site at www.ncdot.gov/bikeped/.