If You Build It, They Won't Walk

Trails and walking paths are commonly built in suburban areas. But their mere presence doesn't automatically mean they'll be used, according to a new study.

1 minute read

October 15, 2010, 11:00 AM PDT

By Nate Berg

Researchers at the University of California, Santa Barbara found that the building a new trail in an area didn't result in an increase in physical activity.

"One unique aspect of the study was its "before-and-after" approach - it measured the neighbors' walking-jogging-cycling frequency before the trail was built and after it was completed. About 87 percent of those who used the new trail reported they were pursuing these activities before the path was constructed and used sidewalks or more distant trails. Proximity to the trail had no significant effect on total physical activity; those near it were no more likely to use it than those farther away."

FULL STORY: Suburban Trail Use Not a Sure Thing

Tuesday, October 5, 2010 in Miller-McCune

Land Use Landscape Architecture Social / Demographics Transportation United States Suburbs Walking Trails View More

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