BRADLEY IS CURRENTLY CLOSED FOR CLIMBING.
BRADLEY IS CURRENTLY CLOSED FOR CLIMBING.
We encourage the community to recognize and support the efforts of the RMF to lead this initiative towards finding a positive resolution to establish access at Bradley. In doing so, we want to remind the community that climbing is currently prohibited at Bradley, and we urge everyone to respect this closure. Further climbing at Bradley will only make this process more challenging. Please spread the word, and help keep one another accountable for heeding the closure.
THE ISSUE.
The Bradley Mountain Boulders, nestled between Crescent Lake and Shuttle Meadow Reservoir, have long been a cherished space for climbers in central Connecticut. Unfortunately, the enforced closure of this beloved area has left a void in our community.
Since the late 1970s, Bradley has not only provided world-class bouldering opportunities but has also fostered a vibrant outdoor community and supported local businesses through climbers' patronage. However, concerns over liability issues have led to its closure.
We believe that with collaboration between the New Britain Water Department (NBWD) and the Ragged Mountain Foundation, solutions can be found to address these concerns while ensuring the safe and responsible enjoyment of Bradley by climbers. The Ragged Mountain Foundation is willing to assist in implementing necessary measures and educating climbers on responsible practices.
For nearly 50 years, climbers have enjoyed Bradley safely, and RMF is seeking a solution that will mitigate risks, promote responsible land stewardship, and address any liability concerns. We are urging the NBWD to work with us to find a solution that allows for the reopening of Bradley Mountain Boulders while addressing any valid issues.
A CALL TO ACTION.
Letter Writing Campaign
One way you can help is to make your voice heard by sending a letter on behalf of the climbing community to the New Britain Common Council.
We have prepared a letter template (below) that you may use. Feel free to add to it or write your own letter if you prefer. If you choose to change the language, please keep in mind that we endeavor to use positive, open language that will encourage a response. Our goal is to find an amicable solution for all parties.
Print the letter template, and mail to:
New Britain Common Council
27 West Main Street
New Britain, CT 06051
What else can you do?
We need volunteers to attend monthly New Britain Water Department and New Britain Common Council meetings to advocate for the Ragged Mountain Foundation and climbers, as this presence is crucial in demonstrating ongoing community support for climbing access at Bradley. Your personal testimonies about what Bradley climbing and public recreation mean to you and the community will help reinforce the importance of preserving this cherished outdoor space.
Attendees are allotted a short amount of time to speak to the council, and our goal is have individuals each month speak on behalf of RMF and climbing access at Bradley.
Does this sounds like your kind of thing? If so, we could really use your help. Please send an email to RMF board members Jen Chmiel and Kyle Cifarelli indicating your interest, and they will help you out and provide you all the details.
WEAR IT.
Now you can spread the message while supporting the RMF’s mission with ‘Save Bradley Boulders’ merch.
Check out the RMF store!
