FABB 20th Anniversary Spotlight Series – Part 4
As FABB marked its 20th anniversary, we paused not only to celebrate our progress, partnerships, and collective vision—but also to honor three remarkable individuals whose lives and work shaped the better, more bikeable Fairfax County we know today: Congressman Gerry Connolly, Supervisor Cathy Hudgins, and FABB co-founder Kerie Hitt.
Their legacy lives on in every trail, every policy win, and every safe ride taken by our neighbors.
Congressman Gerry Connolly: A Visionary for Safer Streets
When Gerry Connolly served as Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors (2003–2009), he was more than a friend to FABB—he was a transformational leader for active transportation. Connolly championed the creation of the Cross County Trail, pushed for Fairfax County’s first Bicycle Master Plan, helped establish the bike coordinator position, and backed some of the county’s earliest bike projects and the official bike map.
And it didn’t stop with policy. He showed up—again and again. He joined FABB on a ride along the W&OD Trail in 2008 to spotlight dangerous crossings. He helped celebrate new bike racks at local schools. He cheered on the launch of Capital Bikeshare in Fairfax County. And as a congressman, he consistently delivered results for bicyclists: securing millions in federal funding for safer infrastructure, from Sunrise Valley Drive to the Vienna Metro area to the new Long Bridge over the Potomac.
Congressman Connolly never stopped believing that Fairfax County could become a safer place for people of all ages and abilities to bike—and he backed that belief with action, year after year. His legacy is etched in every trail and bike lane in our community.
Supervisor Cathy Hudgins: A Trailblazer for Inclusion and Access
Supervisor Catherine M. “Cathy” Hudgins led the Hunter Mill District for two decades with integrity, compassion, and a powerful vision of equity and inclusion. As the first African American to serve on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, Cathy dedicated her life to ensuring all residents had access to safe, sustainable transportation options—regardless of background or income.
For the bicycling community, Cathy was more than a supporter—she was a champion. She launched Fairfax County’s first Bike to Work Day event in 2002 and continued to participate for years, often arriving on her folding bike to greet riders. She worked with FABB and residents to develop the Northern Vienna Trail Network, advocated for Safe Routes to School, and championed amenities like the secure bike room at the Wiehle-Reston East Metro station.
Her leadership was key to making the W&OD Trail bridge over Wiehle Avenue a reality—an enduring improvement and a lasting tribute to her foresight. She also served on the WMATA Board and the region’s Access for All Advisory Committee, always pushing for thoughtful, inclusive transportation planning.
Supervisor Hudgins understood that transportation isn’t just about getting from A to B—it’s about community, dignity, and opportunity. Her life’s work made that truth a reality for thousands.
Kerie Hitt: A Founding Heart of FABB
Kerie Hitt.
FABB’s accomplishments over the past 20 years would not have been possible without the vision and dedication of its founding members—and no one embodied that spirit more than Kerie Hitt.
A gifted scientist and one of the first to apply GIS mapping to national water-resources data at the US Geological Survey, Kerie brought the same analytical mind and creative spark to her bicycling advocacy. She helped launch FABB in 2005, served as our inaugural secretary, and supported our first president, her husband Bruce Wright, with insight and strength. She designed our logo, created beautiful public-facing materials, and was an indispensable part of our growth and identity.
More than that, Kerie lived the joy of cycling. She commuted by bike, explored local trails, and rode on unforgettable journeys through Canada, Oregon, Florida, and Quebec—even after her ovarian cancer diagnosis. Her love of cycling, and her belief in its power to connect and heal, stayed with her to the end—riding in tandem with Bruce on a cargo bike when she could no longer ride alone.
We remember Kerie not only for her contributions, but for her kindness, her laughter, and her unwavering belief in what FABB could become.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
Congressman Connolly. Supervisor Hudgins. Kerie Hitt. Each of them brought something extraordinary to the cause of better bicycling: vision, perseverance, creativity, compassion. They helped make FABB what it is today, and they made Fairfax County a better place for all who ride.
As we look ahead to the next 20 years, may we be inspired by their example. May we all aspire to be champions—for our community, for our values, and for the simple joy of riding a bike.
Join us. The path forward is bright—and we need your help to keep moving ahead.
