Road Runners Club of America Welcomes Two New Runner Friendly Communities

January 16, 2026

Welcomes Two NEW Runner Friendly CommunitIES

Arlington, VA (January 16, 2025) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – The Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) is excited to announce the newest addition to Runner Friendly Communities® designation for winter 2025-26:

• Anchorage, Alaska
• Huntsville, Alabama

The RRCA’s Runner Friendly Community program recognizes communities that excel in supporting runners and encourages others to follow their lead. Runner Friendly Communities promote active lifestyles, enhance livability, and deliver lasting social and economic benefits.

“Runner Friendly Communities reflect a shared commitment to infrastructure, safety, and access. By working together, cities and local partners create environments where running is supported—and where community well-being thrives.”

Anchorage exemplifies what it means to be a Runner Friendly Community, offering year-round access to an expansive, well-maintained trail system that supports running in every season. The Municipality of Anchorage maintains more than 120 miles of paved multi-use trails and an additional 200 miles of connecting park and greenbelt trails, providing runners with safe and scenic route options, including popular destinations like the well-lit Ship Creek Trail and Kincaid Park, which features 35–40 miles of paved and unpaved trails and year-round amenities such as restrooms, water, and warming areas. Consistent support from the Parks & Recreation Department and Public Works teams—including snow removal and lighting—combined with safety efforts from the Anchorage Police Department, Parks & Recreation staff, and volunteer groups like Trail Watch, helps ensure a safe running environment. A strong local running culture, supported by organizations such as the Anchorage Running Club, Girls on the Run, the Anchorage School District, and local businesses like Skinny Raven Sports, along with more than 1,300 volunteers supporting annual events, reflects how deeply running is woven into Anchorage’s community identity.

Huntsville is recognized for its growing runner-friendly infrastructure and strong community engagement, supported by a long-term vision for connected trails, parks, and complete streets. The city’s Greenway Master Plan envisions approximately 312 miles of interconnected greenways, with 73 miles currently in place, including routes along Aldridge Creek, Indian Creek, Flint River, and Big Cove Creek, all connected to nearly 65 parks and more than 3,000 acres of parkland with runner-supportive amenities. The Huntsville Track Club (HTC), active since 1971, anchors the local running community by organizing 24 races and events annually, including Rocket City Marathon Race Weekend and the Bridge Street Half Marathon, while championship-caliber facilities like the John Hunt Cross Country Course / Running Park provide high-quality training and racing opportunities. Close collaboration among HTC, Huntsville Parks & Recreation, Police, Fire & Rescue, and the city’s Special Events Office ensures safe, well-supported races and community runs throughout the year.

Runner Friendly Communities are recognized for meeting RRCA’s criteria, which include exceptional community infrastructure and strong support from local businesses and government. These communities boast pedestrian-friendly networks of sidewalks, multi-use trails, shared lanes, and other amenities that make running safe and accessible. They also demonstrate collaboration between public and private organizations to promote running as a sport and a healthy activity.

The following communities have successfully renewed their Runner Friendly Community designations, confirming their commitment to supporting runners:

• Columba/Howard County, Maryland
• Rochester, Minnesota
• Terre Haute, Indiana

About the RRCA:
Founded in 1958, the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) is the oldest and largest national association dedicated to growing the sport of running. The RRCA champions the development and success of community-based running organizations that empower all people to participate in the sport of running in pursuit of enjoyment, health, well-being and competition.  For more information, visit www.RRCA.org.

Contact:

Andy Smith
programs@RRCA.org
703-525-3890