Leadership Columbia Class of 2026 selects Cola Town Bike Collective for community impact project
February 10, 2026
The Leadership Columbia Class of 2026 (LC26), a flagship leadership development program of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce, has selected Cola Town Bike Collective (CTBC) as the nonprofit partner for its class project. The project represents a year-long investment by 63 leaders from across the Midlands, spanning industries and sectors, united by a shared commitment to community impact and greater local access to safe, connected ways to move through the Midlands.
As part of the Leadership Columbia program, each class identifies and executes a project that delivers lasting benefit to the region. For LC26, that mission will focus on strengthening CTBC’s physical infrastructure, expanding programming and outreach, and amplifying advocacy efforts that support safer streets and more connected, livable neighborhoods across the Columbia area.
The LC26 project includes onsite renovations at CTBC facilities, such as fencing, landscaping, insulation, and other critical upgrades designed to enhance functionality and long-term sustainability. In addition, the class will work to repair and update bike repair stations throughout the Columbia region, expanding access for riders and supporting CTBC’s broader efforts to create a safer, more connected Midlands.
Beyond physical improvements, LC26 will support expanded programming and community engagement, partnering with CTBC on activations at local events while also developing new opportunities to connect residents with biking resources, education, and services. The project also includes a coordinated marketing and social media effort to increase awareness of CTBC’s mission and reach new audiences.
An important component of the project centers on awareness and advocacy, with LC26 leaders working alongside CTBC to elevate initiatives focused on safety, access, and equitable mobility for people of all ages and abilities. Together, the partnership aims to strengthen community understanding of bicycling as a tool for mobility, recreation, and connection.
Each LC26 participant will contribute a minimum of 15 volunteer hours toward the project, representing nearly 1,000 hours of collective service dedicated to improving quality of life across the region.
“Our class is incredibly proud to invest our time and talents right here in the Midlands,” said Stephen Lynch and Zach Lundberg, Co-Chairs of the Leadership Columbia Class of 2026. “This project reflects what Leadership Columbia is about: bringing together leaders from across industries to make a tangible impact and help expand access to opportunities that strengthen our communities.”
Scott Nuelken, Executive Director of Cola Town Bike Collective, emphasized the value of the partnership. “We are deeply grateful for the collaboration of 63 local leaders who are choosing to support our mission,” Nuelken said. “This partnership will significantly amplify our work, from improving infrastructure to expanding awareness and access for riders across the region. The impact will be felt well beyond this year.”
The project will culminate in a public, media-friendly ribbon-cutting event scheduled for May, aligning with National Bike Month, to celebrate the partnership and the collective impact of the LC26 class.
Community members are encouraged to learn more about Cola Town Bike Collective and its work by visiting www.colatownbikes.com and following CTBC on social media.
For information about supporting the Leadership Columbia Class of 2026 project through donations or contributions, contact [email protected]
About Leadership Columbia
Leadership Columbia is a 10-month civic leadership program of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce designed to educate and connect emerging and established leaders across the Midlands. For more than 50 years, the program has helped participants better understand the region while building relationships that strengthen the community.
About the Columbia Chamber of Commerce
The Columbia Chamber of Commerce is a private, nonprofit, Partner-driven organization representing more than 1,200 businesses, organizations, and institutions across the Midlands. Founded in 1902, the Chamber serves as the voice of the business community through advocacy, leadership development, and engagement.
About Cola Town Bike Collective
Cola Town Bike Collective is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding bike access, promoting safety, and fostering a more connected and bike-friendly Columbia through infrastructure, education, and community partnerships.
