Evaluation of bicycle and pedestrian facilities : user satisfaction and perceptions on three shared use trails in Texas
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Date
1999-05
Authors
Shafer, C. Scott
Turner, Shawn
Texas Transportation Institute
Texas A & M University. Dept. of Recreation, Park & Tourism Sciences
Southwest Region University Transportation Center (U.S.)
University Transportation Centers Program (U.S.)
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Dept. of Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences, Texas A&M University ; Texas Transportation Institute
Abstract
This report describes research conducted to evaluate bicycle and pedestrian facilities (i.e., shared use trails) with user
satisfaction and perception surveys. Public and community input on transportation projects is often mentioned as a
necessary step in the planning process but seldom perfonned. The opinions and perceptions of facility users are
immensely valuable in improving conditions at current trails as well as in the development and design of new trails. In
this study, the research team developed on-site and mail-back survey instruments that were distributed on three shared
use trails in Texas: the Brays and Buffalo Bayou Trails in Houston, and the Shoal Creek Trail in Austin.
The responses to the surveys were analyzed to determine consistent themes and trends in user satisfaction and
perceptions. The study found that several trail attributes contribute significantly to user satisfaction and higher levels of
trail use. Adequate separation from motor vehicles was noted as a positive attribute that should be provided whenever
possible on s~ed use trails. Trail surface quality and width was also noted as an important attribute, particularly in
cases where numerous user types (e.g., bicyclists, joggers, walkers) were using the same trail. The study also revealed
that many of the trail users felt that the shared use trails significantly contributed to hannonizing transportation and
community goals. The survey responses indicated that the trails were used for a variety of purposes, including
transportation, recreation, social interaction, and enjoyment of the natural environment. The researchers concluded that
user surveys (such as those conducted in this study) are a valuable addition to other traditional transportation planning
tools, and as such, can provide more and better insight into roadway and trail user behavior and motivation.
Description
87 p. Illustrations, Maps
Keywords
Bicycle trails -- Texas -- Evaluation, Pedestrian areas -- Texas -- Evaluation, Cyclists -- Texas -- Attitudes, Pedestrians -- Texas -- Attitudes, Sustainable development -- Texas, Multi-use trails, Multiple-use trails