Committee hears idea for Dutch-style numbered-node bike app; local developer gives rough cost estimate

A BPAC member described a Netherlands-style numbered-node mapping app and asked whether the committee had interest and a financial pathway to develop a local version for Santa Fe and surrounding trails.

Member McConnell described the concept — an interconnected node system where users tap numbered nodes to route between safe bicycle pathways — and said the idea could help visitors and residents find the safest routes. He said the app could be expanded to include hiking and other trails and that development and annual maintenance would be required.

Member Ben Pingeli, who said he develops apps professionally, offered a development estimate: “To do something like that would be around 2 to $300,000. Yeah. I'll do it for 200,” he said. Committee members discussed alternatives such as Google Maps, existing trail apps in nearby counties, and Santa Fe County’s interactive trail map as lower-cost or interim approaches.

Committee members asked Member McConnell to do further research and bring a follow-up item with budget and scope. No formal funding commitment or motion was made; the discussion was exploratory and members emphasized competing priorities such as trail maintenance.