The Association of Trail Features With Self-Report Trail Use by Neighborhood Residents

Area of Science:

• Urban planning
• Public health
• Environmental psychology

Background:

• Urban trails are vital for promoting physical activity.
• Understanding factors influencing trail use is crucial for public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify specific built environmental features of urban trails associated with their usage.
• To inform urban trail design and promotion strategies for increased physical activity.

Main Methods:

• Selected multiuse urban trails in Chicago, Dallas, and Los Angeles.
• Conducted environmental audits using the Systematic Pedestrian and Cyclist Environmental Scan for Trails (SPEC-T) instrument.
• Collected self-reported trail use data from 331 residents living near the trails.

Main Results:

• Positive correlations between trail use (hours and dichotomous) and the presence of distance signs, vegetation height, vegetation maintenance, and trail crowding.
• Negative association between trail use and the presence of trail crossings.
• Regression analyses controlled for proximity to trail and motivation for physical activity.

Conclusions:

• Features such as distance markers, vegetation management, and perceived crowding are linked to higher urban trail use.
• Trail crossings may deter usage, highlighting a potential design consideration.
• Findings suggest urban trail design and maintenance can influence physical activity levels and should be further investigated.