Montour Trail Council User Survey

Transcription

1 2018 Montour Trail Council User Survey

2 Contents 1 About the Montour Trail and Montour Trail Council Message from the Council Executive Summary Methodology Survey Questions Responses & Analysis Respondent Zip Codes (Q.1) Gender & Age (Q.2 & 3) Primary & Secondary Trail Activities (Q.4 & 5) Frequency, Duration & Days of Trail Use (Q.6, 7 & 8) Distance from Trail (Q.9, 10 & 11) Trail Sections Used (Q.12) Trail Etiquette (Q.13, 14 & 15) Trail Maintenance (Q.16) Trail Safety and Security (Q.17) Trail Comparisons (Q.18 & 19) Trail-Related Spending (Q.20, 21 & 22) Improvement Priorities (Q.23) MTC Improvement Suggestions (Q.24) MTC Event Participation (Q.25) Communications (Q.26) MTC Financial Participation (Q.27 & 28) Additional Comments (Q. 29) Contact Information & Follow-up (Q.30 & 31) Compiled by: John Dorman May 2018 Version 4 Cover Photo: Rosa Lamour, Apr 2018 MTC User Survey 2018 Page 2

3 1 About the Montour Trail and Montour Trail Council The Montour Trail is the longest suburban non-motorized rail-trail in the United States, with main line and branches extending 63 miles. Running through communities west and south of Pittsburgh, the trail follows the abandoned rights-of-way of the Montour Railroad and the Pennsylvania Railroad, Peters Creek branch. The trail is paved with a smooth surface of crushed limestone, which makes it ideal for all forms of non-motorized use: bicycling, walking, running, cross-country skiing, and nature appreciation. The trail connects Pittsburgh International Airport to the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP), a trail system that stretches over 330 miles from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC. A portion of the trail within Peters Township is called The Arrowhead Trail and is owned and maintained by the Township. The Montour Trail connects in McDonald, PA to the Panhandle Trail that stretches 29 miles between Carnegie, PA, and Weirton, WV. The Montour Trail Council (MTC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that oversees construction and maintenance of the Montour Trail. The MTC is an entirely volunteer based organization with no paid staff and receives no tax-based financial support for trail maintenance. The MTC conducts construction projects, public relations efforts, fundraising, and managing a growing volunteer base. Since its founding MTC leadership has responded to the need to manage the tremendous amount of activity by creating a formal structure with a Board of Directors, by-laws and standing committees. Maintenance is conducted by seven Friends Groups that solicit volunteers and raise funds supporting the maintenance of their assigned sections of the trail. Learn more about the MTC and the Trail by visiting MTC User Survey 2018 Page 3

4 2 Message from the Council We are pleased to present the results of the Montour Trial Council s 2018 User Survey. Nearly 1,000 of you responded to the request to gather your thoughts and opinions about the trail, and we thank you for taking your time to share them with us and help improve the trail. Your worthy efforts serve as a bright beacon that helps to draw in new people from all over. The survey has evolved since the last one in 2016, although the general areas of focus remain. John Dorman has again done a stellar job compiling the numbers, and they tell a compelling story. Overall, most people are greatly appreciative of the good condition of the trail and of the volunteers who keep it that way. As before, this speaks highly of all of you who work long and hard on the trail. This past year, it has been particularly challenging due to some of the severe weather events we have had. Volunteer groups throughout the MTC are already working in various ways to address many of the needs most often mentioned in the survey. We all get thirsty, so a sub-committee has been formed to specify good sites for additional water fountains. Early and late season rest facilities are desired, so the MTC Board is taking direction from the Friends Groups to identify where the current portable toilets should be designated as year round facilities. In a response to your requests for better on-trail directions, new signs have been deployed at the trailheads, indicating direction and distance to other trailheads. Small user-directed safety reminder signs will be going up later this year. Also, being planned is a system of wayfinder signage, intended to direct people coming from the area s major roads to our trailheads. This initiative is being supported by an effort on the part of Washington County Tourism. There also are many things you, dear reader, can do, perhaps none more important than simply being courteous to others on the trail. Bear in mind that we re all out there to enjoy it in our own ways, so be respectful of others ways of enjoying it too. The Montour Trail is a beautiful and accessible resource for everybody, and there is plenty of space and opportunity for all of us to get out there have a good time, and leave room for others to do the same. The Trail s surface needs the touch of a caring volunteer now and then. If you get out and use the trail, consider helping to keep it in good shape. You can start by getting in touch with your local Friends Group, and find out when they ll be doing a little work. Picking up branches and plain old mowing always need volunteers. Love the trail? It s very satisfying to help keep it smooth, clean, and looking attractive. As to the trail sections that aren t yet done, work continues to overcome the obstacles and move them towards construction and eventual completion. Completing these gaps remains a top priority within MTC, and there s a lot of effort by the project managers, and many others, to get going with building. Again, many of you specifically indicated that you would like to help out further, and left your contact information. This is the best of all possible outcomes of a survey. Someone will be getting back to you. We hope to repeat this survey process at intervals. In the meantime, if you have a comment or question, please or call the trail. Your ideas help us make this a great trail for you to enjoy! Ned Williams, Vice President Montour Trail Council May, 2018 MTC User Survey 2018 Page 4

5 3 Executive Summary At the request of the MTC Board, trail user input was gathered by means of an on-line survey offered through the Survey Monkey website ( between 28Jan18 28Feb18. This was the second survey of this type, the prior survey being completed in Thirty one questions covering demographics, trail use, trail comparisons, improvement priorities, trail-related spending, communications, membership (financial support of the trail) and optional contact information were included in the survey. The survey was publicized through various MTC resources and was announced through a series of s from the MTC general list. Responses were analyzed and summarized for review and compared to the 2016 results where appropriate. In April 2018, key findings were shared with the MTC Board and with the volunteer Friends Groups. Action items were identified and initiated to address opportunities, and additional action is contemplated as part of the upcoming MTC Strategic Planning Process. A total of 978 respondents scattered across 134 Zip codes provided this data. Of those, 91.3% are over the age of 35 and 76.2% are over 45. Just over 60% of respondents are male. Overall demographics are similar to the prior survey. The largest fraction of respondents selected Biking, followed by Jogging / Running and Walking / Hiking as their primary trail activity. Over 85% of respondents indicate that they use the trail for 2 or more different activities. The majority of respondents reported using the trail for 1-2 hours per visit, regardless of frequency of use, activity or distance traveled. Over half of respondents reported using the trail at least weekly. Nearly 60% of respondents report using the trail on both weekdays and weekends. Proximity appears to be a key driver in frequency of trail use. Looking at activities, Bikers travel the farthest to use the trail, followed by runners. Walkers & dog walkers travel least. The relationship between Distance and Frequency and between Distance and Activity are very similar to the prior survey. Of the 83 respondents that reported living 20 miles or more from the trail, 8 reported an overnight stay when using the trail. Those that reported traveling over 20 miles were also asked how they learned of the trail: Word of Mouth, having lived near the trail, and websites were the top three means. Respondents were asked to indicate their frequency of use of six defined trail segments. Airport segment has highest number of respondents that use it Very Often, followed by Peters. Combining "Very Often" and "Sometimes", Cecil has the most users, followed by Peters and the Airport. South Park has the fewest frequent and total users. Airport, Cecil and Peters were also the top 3 segments in the 2016 survey. For the 2018 survey, a series of questions on Trail Etiquette was added. Over 96% of users indicate that they use the correct etiquette regarding keeping right on the trail whether biking or Walking / Jogging. However, 16% of respondents indicate that they violate Passing rules (specifically warning others before passing). Analysis of the comments provided in several sections of the survey reinforces the improvement opportunity in this area. Maintenance scored very high with over half of respondents rating it Excellent and 97% of respondents rating it Excellent or Good. The Weighted score and distribution of scores was virtually unchanged from Comments indicate an opportunity for improvements in surface condition, trimming of the sides and tree / obstacle removal. Security scored somewhat lower than Maintenance and was unchanged from Nearly 10% of MTC User Survey 2018 Page 5

6 respondents rated it Fair or Poor. Airport & Ft Cherry had lower ratings compared to the other segments, although both, along with Bethel, were improved compared to the prior survey. Ratings for Peters and South Park dipped since the last survey. Respondents were asked to indicate their overall impression of the Montour Trail compared nine other regional rail-trails that they may have used in the past 12 months. The Montour scored higher (i.e., was rated between About the Same and Somewhat Better ) than all other trails with an overall average of Respondents were also asked WHY they assigned the rating that they did. Maintenance, Surface & Pavement and Environment are most often mentioned attributes. In order to start establishing a baseline for the economic impact of the Trail on the surrounding communities, respondents were asked a series of questions about trail-related purchases in the past 12 months. About 44% reported purchasing items for use on the trail. Of those, just over half (240) reported spending $100 or less during the year, 150 reported spending between $100 and $300 and the remaining 50 reported spending over $300. Approximately 70% those spending $100 or less indicate that they purchased food (beverages, snacks, meals) and clothing / souvenirs. Equipment and clothing represent an increasing percentage of the mentioned items as the spend goes up. The top 4 improvement priorities were: Water Fountains, Year Round Toilets, On-Trail Signs and Trailhead Signage. These options are the preferred choices based on total mentions, "Top-2 mentions" and Total Points based on the weighted score. These same 4 are also top choices regardless of primary activity or trail segment. Respondents were asked what MTC could be doing better, or what would make them use or enjoy the trail more. About 25% of the comments received were complimentary and/or indicated that the respondent had no suggestions. Trail and Surface maintenance was the top comment area, focused on surface condition, paving, trimming of the sides and tree / obstacle removal. Etiquette in one form or another was the next highest area - with focus on passing, speed, pet leash enforcement and walking 2-3 abreast. Gap Completion and connections to other trails / communities was the third highest comment theme. Respondents were asked to identify what MTC-sponsored events that they had participated in during the past 12 months. Just over 70% of respondents have not participated in any MTC activities in the prior year up from 48% in the prior survey. Participation by age group ranges from 17-21% below age 45 to 30-35% above age 45. Participation rates are down for all age groups compared to the prior survey. Tour the Montour attracts the largest number of participants, and also the most diverse in terms of age and primary activity. Volunteer / Work parties are second - again spanning most age groups and activities. Respondents were asked to indicate the various sources of information that they used to stay informed about the trail and MTC activities. Most mentioned regardless of age or activity is the E-Newsletter, followed by the Montour.org and the MT Facebook group. Together, these 3 account for 75% of the mentions. The Twitter Acct and Yahoo group combined are only 4% of the mentions, down from a combined total of 6% in the prior survey. Just over half (52%) of respondents indicated that they had made a financial contribution to establish or maintain membership in the trail, up from 46% in Rates are up for all age groups and nearly all activities. MTC User Survey 2018 Page 6

7 Two of the three most common reasons given by non-members are to claim to be unaware of the MTC and its activities. These totals are down sharply from 2016 indicating increased awareness about the MTC. A total of 201 respondents submitted comments regarding trail use, condition, suggestions and support. These were aggregated along with key demographic and attribute for separate review and action. Approximately 8% of respondents provide basic contact information to either follow up on their survey responses or volunteer in some capacity with the MTC with virtually all of them offering to volunteer. MTC User Survey 2018 Page 7

8 4 Methodology At the request of the MTC Board, trail user input was gathered by means of an on-line survey offered through the Survey Monkey website ( between 28Jan18 28Feb18. This was the second survey of this type, the prior survey being completed in The questions were drafted by a team composed of MTC Board members and volunteers. Thirty one questions covering demographics, trail use, trail comparisons, improvement priorities, trail-related spending, communications, membership (financial support of the trail) and optional contact information were included in the survey (see Section 3). Branching logic was provided to explore purchases and reasons why respondents indicated that they do not contribute to support the trail when appropriate. Most questions were multiple choice with an option to provide other responses. Several open ended questions were provided to allow respondents to elaborate on their responses or provide additional general comments. The survey was publicized through various MTC resources (Trail web page, Facebook page, Yahoo group, etc.) and was announced through a series of s from the MTC general list to a total of approximately 3900 addresses. Responses were analyzed and summarized for review. Note that some respondents did not answer all survey questions, and in in those cases, totals were calculated based on the number of complete responses for the applicable questions. This approach sometimes resulted in minor differences in totals and other calculated values between tables. In April 2018, key findings were shared with the MTC Board and with the volunteer Friends Groups. Action items were identified and initiated to address opportunities, and additional action is contemplated as part of the upcoming MTC Strategic Planning Process. It is anticipated that a follow-up survey will be conducted in about 2 years. Note: It is recognized that the survey responses may not fully represent trail users the respondents are selfselected from those aware of and with access to the survey. (Many trail users may have been unaware of the survey, aware but not able to access the survey, or unwilling to respond to the survey.) That said, the data collected does provide some insight into a broad cross section of users, and provides meaningful feedback on perceptions and opportunities for use in the Montour Trail planning process. MTC User Survey 2018 Page 8

9 5 Survey Questions First, please provide a little information about yourself: 1. What is your ZIP code? 2. What is your gender? o Male o Female 3. What is your age group? o 15 and younger o o o o o o 66 or older Considering your use of the Montour Trail in the past 12 months: 4. What is your primary activity on the trail? (Pick 1) o Walking/ hiking o Dog walking o Jogging/ running o Other: o o o Biking Commuting to work or school Fishing 5. In addition to your primary activity (from Question 5 above,) what other activities have you enjoyed on the trail? (Select all that apply) o Walking/ hiking o Biking o Dog walking o Commuting to work or school o Jogging/ running o Fishing o Other: 6. How often, on average, do you use the trail? (Pick 1) o Daily o Two or more times per week o Weekly 7. Generally, when do you use the trail? (Pick 1) o Weekdays o Weekends o Both o o o Couple of times a month Once a month A few times a year 8. How much time do you generally spend on the trail each visit? (Pick 1) o 1 hour or less o 2 to 4 hours o 1 to 2 hours o More than 4 hours MTC User Survey 2018 Page 9

10 9. Approximately how far do you typically travel to get to the trail? (Pick 1) o I live adjacent to the trail (Go to Q12) o Between 5 and 10 miles (Go to Q12) o Less than 1 mile (Go to Q12) o Between 10 and 20 miles (Go to Q12) o Between 1 and 5 miles (Go to Q12) o More than 20 miles (Go to Q10) 10. If more than 20 miles: When you use the trail, do you typically stay overnight? o Yes o No 11. If more than 20 miles: How did you learn about the trail? o Social media o Website o Bike shop o Word of mouth o Used to live near the trail o Other: 12. How much do you use each section of the trail? Airport Area from Coraopolis to Washington County line including the Airport Connector (MP 0 to 12.4) Ft. Cherry Area from the Washington County line to the new bridge over Rt. 50, including the Panhandle Trail Connector (MP 12.4 to 22) Cecil Area from the bridge over Rt. 50 to Tandem Connection, including the Westland Branch (MP 22 to 27) Peters Area from Tandem Connection to Library Viaduct over Rt. 88 (MP 27 to 35.5) Bethel Branch, from the horse farm at Library Junction to Logan Rd. South Park Township and points east, including the Library Viaduct over Rt. 88 to end of trail at Clairton (MP 35.5to 46.5) I use this section very often I sometimes use this section I rarely use this section I never use this section Montour Trail social media generates a steady exchange of comments about trail etiquette. The questions below are intended to help us collect baseline information from users. 13. When walking or jogging on the trail, do you typically: (Pick 1) o Keep LEFT (facing oncoming users) except when overtaking others? o Keep RIGHT - except when overtaking others? o Stay in the middle so others can pass on either side? o Other: MTC User Survey 2018 Page 10

11 14. When biking on the trail, do you typically: (Pick 1) o Keep LEFT (facing oncoming users) except when overtaking others? o Keep RIGHT - except when overtaking others? o Stay in the middle so others can pass on either side? o Other: 15. When passing others on the trail while biking or jogging, do you typically: (Pick 1) o Announce that you are there (ring a bell, say 'passing' or 'on your left', etc.)? o Say or do nothing unless you need the other person to move aside o Other: Considering your experience on the Montour Trail over the past 12 months: 16. The maintenance of the trail is: (Pick 1) o Excellent o Good o Fair o Poor 17. Safety and security along the trail is: (Pick 1) o Excellent o Good o Fair o Poor Considering the Montour Trail and any other trails that you have used in the past 12 months: 18. Rate how the Montour Trail compares to other Trails in the region. For each Trail, indicate if the Montour Trail is: Panhandle Trail Three River Heritage Trail Steel Valley Trail (between Homestead & McKeesport) Yough River Trail (GAP between McKeesport Connellsville) Yough River Trail (GAP south & east of Connellsville Allegheny River, Oil Creek & Samuel Justus Trails Butler- Freeport Trail Ghost Town Trail Armstrong Trail Much Better Somewhat Better About the Same Somewhat Worse Much Worse N/A I haven t used this trail MTC User Survey 2018 Page 11

12 19. If you rated the Montour Trail "Much Better" or "Much Worse" than any of the trails above, why? The Montour Trail is a valuable community resource that brings people into and through the various trail communities. 20. Did you purchase anything in preparation for or during your visits to the trail this year? o No, I didn t purchase any items (Go to Q21) o Yes, I purchased such things as beverages, snacks, meals, clothing, souvenirs, lodging, recreational equipment, bike rentals and/or repair services for or during my trail visits. 21. What items or services did you purchase primarily for use on the Montour Trail in the past 12 months? (Select all that apply) o Beverages / Ice Cream / Snacks o Bike Rental or Repair Services o Meals o Lodging o Clothing/Souvenirs o Other o Recreational Equipment, bike accessories, etc. 22. Approximately how much did you spend on these types of items for primary use on the Montour Trail in the past 12 months? (Pick 1) o Less than $100 total o $100 - $300 total o More than $300 total The Montour Trail Council (MTC) is the 100% volunteer organization that manages the trail. 23. Please RANK the top 5 most important trail improvements that you would like to see (1 = most important, 2 = 2 nd most important, etc. Please use each number only once.) RANK Trail Improvement 1-5 Signage at trailheads showing amenities and nearby businesses More on-trail signage that reinforces trail rules and trail etiquette More seating / picnic areas More seasonal portajohns More year-round portajohns More water fountains More / Better parking Other: 24. What do you think the MTC could be doing better? What would make you use or enjoy the trail more? MTC User Survey 2018 Page 12

13 25. What MTC-sponsored events have you participated in during the past year? (Select all that apply) o I have not participated in any o J. R. Taylor 5K race and walk o Tour the Montour o Volunteer Trail Work Party o National Tunnel 10K run/ 2 mile walk o Annual member s dinner o Twilight Trail Walk o Other: 26. How do you keep in touch with events on the Montour Trail? (Select all that apply) o o o o o Montour.org Web site Montour Trail Facebook group Montour Trail Twitter account Montour Trail Yahoo group Other: o o o Newsletter ( ed or downloaded) Newsletter (Hard copy sent by US Mail) Word of mouth 27. In the past year did you make a financial contribution to join or maintain membership in the MTC? o Yes o No 28. If not a member, Why not? (Pick 1) o I didn t know about the MTC o I don t know where the money goes o I used to be, but let it expire o Other: 29. Is there anything else you d like to say regarding the trail, your favorite sections or the Montour Trail Council? 30. If you would you like us to contact you regarding your comments on this survey or volunteer opportunities for the trail, please complete the following: Name: 31. And tell us what you would like to discuss: (Select all that apply) o Discuss Comments I ve made on this survey o Volunteering: Membership drives o Volunteering: Trail maintenance o Volunteering: Event planning o Volunteering: Trail management o Volunteering: Event support o Volunteering: Fund raising o Other: MTC User Survey 2018 Page 13

14 6 Responses & Analysis 6.1 Respondent Zip Codes (Q.1) A total of 978 respondents scattered across 134 Zip codes provided this data. Most are clustered in the region, with the top 20 ZIP codes accounting for 72% of the respondents. The Top 20 Zip Codes accounted for 67% of respondents in the 2016 survey. Most of the top Zip Codes are for communities to the West and South of Pittsburgh along the trail route, and 19 of the Top 20 codes were the in the 2016 Top 20 as well Rank 2016 Rank City (Per Post Ofc) Coraopolis PA Canonsburg PA Bethel Park PA Pittsburgh PA Mc Kees Rocks PA Pittsburgh PA Washington PA Mc Donald PA Bridgeville PA Venetia PA Imperial PA South Park PA Pittsburgh PA Pittsburgh PA Pittsburgh PA Oakdale PA Carnegie PA Sewickley PA Pittsburgh PA Aliquippa PA Pittsburgh PA Wexford PA Pittsburgh PA Cluster Map of Respondents by Zip Code MTC User Survey 2018 Page 14

15 6.2 Gender & Age (Q.2 & 3) A total of 964 respondents answered one or both of the questions regarding age and gender. Of those, 91.3% are over the age of 35 and 76.2% are over 45. Just over 60% of respondents are male. On average, the female respondents appear to be younger based on their higher proportion in the lower age brackets. Using the midpoint of each age band, the overall average age of respondents was estimated, and found to be about 2 years higher than the prior survey (54.2 in 2018 vs 52.5 in 2016). Overall demographics are similar to the prior survey. Age Group Female Male Grand Total or older Grand Total Totals 2016 Totals 91.3% Respondents are over % 76.2% Respondents are over % 60.1% Respondents are male 62.9% 39.9% Respondents are female 37.1% 54.2 Estimated Average Age Primary & Secondary Trail Activities (Q.4 & 5) Count of Resp ID Gender Prim Activity Female Male Grand Total Biking Jogging/ running Walking/ hiking Dog walking Other Commuting to work or school 1 1 Grand Total Respondents were asked to identify a single Primary Activity on the trail and could also indicate one or more Secondary Activities. The largest fraction of respondents selected Biking, followed by Jogging / Running and Walking / Hiking as their primary activity. The same order of preference applied by gender as well. By age group, however, the order varied somewhat, with a higher percentage of MTC User Survey 2018 Page 15

16 younger (<45) respondents selecting Jogging / Running as their primary activity. (Note that discrepancies in the response totals between tables are caused by some respondents not responding to either the Age or Gender questions.) The overall proportion of respondents selecting each Primary Activity was very similar to the 2016 survey totals. Count of Resp ID Age Prim Activity or older Grand Total Biking Jogging/ running Walking/ hiking Dog walking Other Commuting to work or school 1 1 Grand Total Respondents picked an average of 2.3 activities each between questions 5 & 6 (1 Primary activity + an average of 1.3 Secondary Activities). Less than 15% of respondents indicated that they use the trail for a single activity and 50% indicated that they use the trail for 2 activities. The remaining 35% of respondents selected between 2 and 5 Secondary activities (3-6 total activities on the trail.) Biking is the most common primary activity and the most common overall (Primary + Secondary). Walking / Hiking is the most common Secondary activity, and the second most common overall. The overall proportion of respondents selecting each Secondary Activity was very similar to the 2016 survey totals. A total of 18 additional activities were identified by respondents as Other Primary or Secondary activities. Cross-country Skiing was the most often mentioned activity, receiving a total of 12 mentions. Trail Volunteer and Bird Watching were the only other two activities receiving 5 or more mentions. MTC User Survey 2018 Page 16

17 MTC User Survey 2018 Page 17

18 6.4 Frequency, Duration & Days of Trail Use (Q.6, 7 & 8) The majority of respondents reported using the trail for 1-2 hours per visit, regardless of frequency of use, Activity or distance traveled. The single exception is the majority of users traveling over 20 miles reported using the trail 2-4 hours. Over half of respondents (56.3%) reported using the trail at least weekly. Nearly 60% of respondents report using the trail on both weekdays and weekends. Color scale by row (duration by freqency) Time On Count of Resp ID Trail Frequency of Use 1 hour or less 1 to 2 hours 2 to 4 hours More than 4 hours Grand Total % of Total Daily % Two or more times per week % Weekly % Couple of times a month % Once a month % A few times a year % Grand Total % of Total 14.4% 56.2% 25.8% 3.6% Color scale by row (duration by Activity) Time On Count of Resp ID Trail Primary Activity 1 hour or less 1 to 2 hours 2 to 4 hours More than 4 hours Grand Total % of Total Biking % Jogging/ running % Walking/ hiking % Dog walking % Other % Commuting to work or school % Grand Total % of Total 14.4% 56.4% 25.8% 3.4% Color scale by row (duration by Distance Traveled) Count of Resp ID Time On Trail Distance Traveled 1 hour or less 1 to 2 hours 2 to 4 hours More than 4 hours Grand Total % of Total I live adjacent to the trail % Less than 1 mile % Between 1 and 5 miles % Between 5 and 10 miles % Between 10 and 20 miles % More than 20 miles % Grand Total % 56.2% 25.8% 3.6% Days of Use Count of Resp ID % of Total Both % Weekends % Weekdays % Grand Total % MTC User Survey 2018 Page 18

19 6.5 Distance from Trail (Q.9, 10 & 11) By assigning a specific distance (typically, the average of the minimum and maximum) to each band and calculating weighted average based on the responses, an Estimated Average Distance was determined to compare travel distance by activity and frequency of use. Proximity appears to be a key driver in frequency of trail use. Frequent users live close to the trail - or people that live close to the trail are Frequent Users. Frequency of use declines as the average estimated travel distance increases. Looking at activities, Bikers travel the farthest to use the trail, followed by runners. Walkers & dog walkers travel least. Once again, the relationship between Distance and Frequency and between Distance and Activity are very similar to the prior survey. Count of Resp ID Distance Frequency of Use I live adjacent to the trail Less than 1 mile Between 1 and 5 miles Between 5 and 10 miles Between 10 and 20 miles More than 20 miles Grand Total Est Avg Distance Daily Two or more times per week Weekly Couple of times a month Once a month A few times a year Grand Total Count of Resp ID Distance Primary Activity I live adjacent to the trail Less than 1 mile Between 1 and 5 miles Between 5 and 10 miles Between 10 and 20 miles More than 20 miles Grand Total Est Avg Distance Biking Jogging/ running Walking/ hiking Dog walking Other Commuting to work or school Grand Total Additional questions were added to this year s survey to explore the behavior or users that travel 20 miles or more to reach the trail. A total of 83 respondents (74 of which are bikers) reported living 20 miles or more from the trail. Of these, 8 reported an overnight stay when using the trail. However, the overnight stay did not drive significant spending: 3 of the 8 spent less than $100 in Trail-related expenses for the year, and the other 5 reported spending $100-$300 total for the year. Per the detail map below (which excludes two respondents from California and Minnesota), many of those indicating that they live 20 miles or more from the trail, appear to live closer to at least some portion of the trail which may be contributing to the minimal reports of overnight stays and lodging purchases. Those that reported traveling over 20 miles were also asked how they learned of the trail. Word of Mouth is the most frequent mentioned means, followed by having lived near the trail, and websites. MTC User Survey 2018 Page 19

20 Overnight Stay: No Total Cluster Map of respondents indicating that they travel more than 20 miles to trail by Zip Code Overnight Stay: Yes Total Overnight Stay: No Overnight Stay: Yes Less than $100 - $300 More than Less than $100 - Primary Activity $100 total total $300 total $100 total $300 total Biking Jogging/ running Other Walking/ hiking Grand Total Grand Total 6.6 Trail Sections Used (Q.12) Respondents were asked to indicate their frequency of use (Very Often, Sometimes, Rarely or Never) of six trail segments - corresponding to the six Friends Groups that maintain the trail. Airport segment has the most MTC User Survey 2018 Page 20

21 Frequent users ('Very Often' =358), followed by Peters (333). Combining "Very Often" and "Sometimes", Cecil has the most users (559), followed by Peters and the Airport (543 & 519 respectively). South Park has the fewest frequent (97) and total (490) users. Airport, Cecil and Peters were also the top 3 segments in the 2016 survey. On a weighted average basis of Users (Respondents that indicated they use a given segment Very Often, Sometimes or Rarely), Airport and Peters rank the highest (tied at 3.46), followed by Cecil, Bethel, Ft Cherry and South Park. A total of 8 users report using all 6 segments "Very Often" (6 are bikers). Airport Ft Cherry Cecil Peters Bethel South Park Very Often Sometimes Rarely Never Respondents Users Rating/Users Given that the trail is continuous and users move freely among segments, a chart of the respondents that indicated that they were frequent (Very Often or Sometimes) users of multiple segments was developed. For example, the first point of the Airport graph (blue) shows how many people frequently use the Airport segment (519). Of those 519, about 320 are also frequent users of Ft Cherry, 250 frequently use Cecil and so on down to 98 of the 520 are frequent users of South Park. As expected, usage increases as you move to the center sections of the trail (indicated by the rising peaks to Cecil and Peters) and drops at the ends and as you get further from the users home section. MTC User Survey 2018 Page 21

22 6.7 Trail Etiquette (Q.13, 14 & 15) For the 2018 survey, a series of questions on Trail Etiquette was added. This topic has garnered a great deal of attention in the MTC Social Media venues. Over 96% of users indicate that they use the correct etiquette regarding keeping right on the trail whether biking or Walking / Jogging. However, 16% of respondents indicate that they violate Passing rules (specifically warning others before passing). Over 1/3 of Joggers/Runners (34.7%) responded that they provide no warning when passing. The airport segment has slightly higher proportion of users reporting that they don't follow Passing etiquette (15.8% vs 10-13% for the other segments. Keep LEFT (facing oncoming users) except when overtaking others? Walking/Jogging Etiquette Biking Etiquette Passing Etiquette Keep RIGHT - except when overtaking others? Stay in the middle so others can pass on either side? Keep LEFT (facing oncoming users) except when overtaking others? Keep RIGHT - except when overtaking others? Stay in the middle so others can pass on either side? Announce that you are there Say or do (ring a bell, say nothing unless 'passing' or you need the 'on your left', other person etc.)? to move aside Biking % % % Walking/ hiking % % % Jogging/ running % % % Dog walking % % % Total % of Total 3.0% 96.5% 0.5% 2.1% 97.7% 0.2% 83.8% 16.2% Say or do nothing unless you need the other person to move aside I use this section very often I sometimes use this section % of Freq+ Sometimes Users Total Airport % Ft Cherry % Cecil % Peters % Bethel % S Park % Analysis of the comments provided in several sections of the survey (including Q23 Other Improvements & Q24 MTC Could Do Better) reinforces the improvement opportunity in this area. Etiquette in one form or another was the second highest comment category - with focus on passing, speed, pet / leash enforcement and walking / jogging 2-3 abreast (58 combined mentions). 6.8 Trail Maintenance (Q.16) The responses for trail maintenance were arrayed on a scale from Excellent = 5 to Poor = 1. Maintenance scored very high (Avg. score = 4.38) with over half of respondents rating it Excellent and 97% of respondents rating it Excellent or Good. The rating was high across all Primary Activities, with only small differences between groups. Only 2 respondents gave a rating of Poor. The Weighted score and distribution of scores was virtually unchanged from While the ratings given for Maintenance were consistently high, the comments provide a broader perspective. Trail and Surface maintenance was the top comment area (70 total mentions) for suggested improvements (Q.24). Users focused on the opportunity for improvements in surface maintenance, repair of surface damage due to weather, trimming of overgrowth from the sides of the trail and removal of downed trees. MTC User Survey 2018 Page 22

23 Count of Resp ID Maint 2018 Wtd Primary Activity Excellent Good Fair Poor Total Score Biking Jogging/ running Walking/ hiking Dog walking Other Commuting to work or school Total Total Fair/Poor 2.6% 2016 Fair/Poor 2.2% 6.9 Trail Safety and Security (Q.17) A weighted average Safety & Security score was determined based on a scale of: Excellent=5 through Poor=1. Security scored somewhat lower than Maintenance (Average score = 4.09 unchanged from 2016). Nearly 10% of respondents rated it Fair or Poor, with proportionately more females giving the lower rating. However, ratings by gender, like the overall rating, are essentially unchanged from Airport & Ft Cherry had lower ratings compared to the other segments, although both, along with Bethel, were improved compared to the prior survey. Ratings for Peters and South Park dipped since the last survey. Cecil was unchanged. While specific drivers of these differences cannot be determined from this survey, several comments mention the long stretches of undeveloped areas (a feature of the trail to many users) as a potential concern. Suggested opportunities for improvement include: increased trail monitoring and patrols (including Police presence), trail cameras, and call boxes or signage to call 911 in case of emergency. Count of Resp ID Safe & Sec Gender Excellent Good Fair Poor 2018 Tot Wtd Score Female Male Tot MTC User Survey 2018 Page 23

24 Count of Resp ID Safe & Sec 2018 Wtd Primary Activity Excellent Good Fair Poor 2018 Tot Score Biking Jogging/ running Walking/ hiking Dog walking Other Tot Total Fair/Poor 9.6% 2016 Fair/Poor 9.3% 6.10 Trail Comparisons (Q.18 & 19) Respondents were asked to indicate their overall impression of the Montour Trail compared nine other regional rail-trails that they may have used in the past 12 months. Over 800 respondents provided ratings for one or more of the listed trails, ranging from 636 comparisons with the Panhandle Trail down to 103 comparisons with the Armstrong Trail. An overall rating for the Montour Trail relative to each other trail was calculated based on the weighted average of responses where Much Better was given 5 points, Somewhat Better was 4 points and so on. Using this approach, an average score of 3 would indicate that the Montour was equal to the other trail under consideration. The Montour scored higher (i.e., was rated between About the Same and Somewhat Better ) than all other trails with an overall average of The most favorable rating was relative the Butler Freeport Trail (MTC received a 3.64 average score) and lowest favorable rating was relative to the Allegheny River Trail (MTC average score was 3.15). MTC vs MTC vs 3 MTC vs MTC vs YRT MTC vs YRT MTC vs MTC vs Butler MTC vs MTC vs Rating Panhandle Rivers Steel Valley North South Alleg Rvr Freeport Ghost Town Armstrong Total Overall MTC User Survey 2018 Page 24

25 Respondents were also asked WHY they assigned the rating that they did. These comments were reviewed and broadly categorized and then tabulated against the Comparison Ratings. An evaluation of comments indicates that Maintenance, Surface & Pavement and Environment are most often mentioned attributes for better or worse (in some cases they were listed as why the Montour was preferred, and in other cases, they were given as the reasons that the other trails were preferred.) Maintenance is most often mentioned as a favorable attribute of the MTC, or an unfavorable attribute of the other trails. Consistency and maintenance of surface is frequently mentioned. Runners see it as an attribute, while many bikers mention the pavement of other trails as an advantage for them. Paved rural trails such as the Panhandle and Allegheny River Trail (which have similar environments and scenery) score much higher with Bikers (often citing pavement as a driver) than with Runners (Runners prefer MTC with a rating difference of 7 to 15%) Trail-Related Spending (Q.20, 21 & 22) In order to start establishing a baseline for the economic impact of the Trail on the surrounding communities, respondents were asked a series of questions about trail-related purchases in the past 12 months. A total of 441 respondents (44%) reported purchasing items for use on the trail including food and drink, souvenirs, equipment rentals or repairs, new bikes, etc. or lodging. Of those, just over half (240) reported spending $100 or MTC User Survey 2018 Page 25

26 less during the year, 150 reported spending between $100 and $300 and the remaining 50 reported spending over $300. About 65% of the 'spenders' are bikers, and 53% of all bikers reported purchasing something for use on the trail. Approximately 22% of the 'spenders' are Runners, and 38% of all Runners reported purchasing something for use on the trail. About 9% of the 'spenders' are Walkers; 32% of all Walkers reported purchasing something for use on the trail. Approximately 70% of those spending $100 or less mention purchases of food (beverages, snacks, meals) and clothing / souvenirs. Equipment and clothing represent an increasing percentage of the mentioned items as the spend goes up. Assuming average expenditures of $50, $200 and $400 for the three bands, users reported an annual spend of approximately $62K. If the spend is assumed to be at the higher end of each range ($75, $250 and $500), the total spend rises to $81K. Assuming mid-range values for each band, Bikers account for approximately 63% of the total spend (slightly more than their proportion of respondents), followed by Runners with 23% of the total spend. Of eight respondents purchasing lodging, five were from the trail vicinity (Bridgeville, Canonsburg, Coraopolis, McDonald, and Washington). Two were from OH (Cleveland, Columbus) and one from Charleston WV. One reported spending less than $100, four spent between $100 and $300, and the remaining three spent over $300 total for the year (including lodging). Keep in mind that this represents the estimated spend by survey respondents. Since not all users responded to the survey, total spend by users can be assumed to be significantly higher, but in the absence of a reliable estimate of total trail users, cannot be quantified at this time. Count of Resp ID Spend Amt Estimated Primary Activity Less than $100 total $100 - $300 total More than $300 total Grand Total % of Spenders % of Primary Activity Total Spend (Mid) % of Total Spend Biking % 53.4% $ 39, % Jogging/ running % 37.9% $ 14, % Walking/ hiking % 32.5% $ 4, % Dog walking % 32.4% $ 1, % Other % 40.0% $ 1, % Commuting to work or school % 100.0% $ % Grand Total % $ 62, % MTC User Survey 2018 Page 26

27 6.12 Improvement Priorities (Q.23) Respondents were asked to rank their top five improvement priorities from a list of 7 options (plus Other ). A weighted score for each option was then calculated by assigning 5 points to the top (#1) option, 4 points to the next (#2) option and so on. The options were then sorted in descending order of weighted score. The top 4 priorities were: Water Fountains, Year Round Toilets, On-Trail Signs and Trailhead Signage. These 4 are top choices based on total mentions, "Top-2 mentions" (where the respondent assigned the option as one of their top-2 priorities) and Total Points basis based on the weighted score. These same 4 are also top choices regardless of primary activity or trail segment as well. Priority Ranking (Higher is Preferred) Other suggested improvements with 10 or more mentions include: Better Surface Maint (82% of suggestors are Bikers) Pavement (94% of suggestors are Bikers) Trash Cans Safety Signs / Rules Pet / Leash Enforcement Water Fountains Year Round Toilets Color bands applied horizontally (by calculation method) On-Trail TrailHead Seasonal Seating & Signs Signs Toilets Picnic Parking Other Total Mentions Top 2 Mentions Total Pts Priority Ranking by Primary Activity (Top 2 Mentions) Color bands applied horizontally (by primary activity) Water Fountains Year Round Toilets On-Trail Signs TrailHead Signs Seasonal Toilets Seating & Picnic Parking Other Biking Jogging/ running Walking/ hiking Dog walking Other Commuting to work or sch Priorities of Frequent Segment Users (Top 2 Mentions) Color bands applied horizontally (by trail segment) Water Fountains Year Round Toilets On-Trail Signs TrailHead Signs Seasonal Toilets Seating & Picnic Parking Other Airport Ft Cherry Cecil Peters Bethel South Park MTC User Survey 2018 Page 27

28 Fill Gaps / Extend Trail Suggestions with fewer than 10 mentions ranged from more connections to communities, to lighting to snow removal. Other Improvement Suggestions Count of Respondent ID Primary Activity Category Biking Walking/ hiking Jogging/ running Dog walking Other Grand Total Better Surface Maint Pavement Trash Cans Safety Signs / Rules Missing Sections Pet / Leash Enforcement Grand Total MTC Improvement Suggestions (Q.24) Respondents were asked what MTC could be doing better, or what would make them use or enjoy the trail more, and approximately 404 comments were received. The comments were categorized with each comment being assigned up to 3 issue categories. The number of mentions of each category was then tallied to aggregate the common themes from the comments. About 25% (102) of the comments were complimentary Category Biking Dog walking Jogging/ running Other Walking/ hiking Total Comment Area No Suggestions Maintenance Trail Maint & Pavement Surface Safety Signs / Rules Etiquette Pet / Leash Enforcement Complete Gaps Complete Events Events Route Signage & Maps Signs Connections Complete Other Security Safe & Secure Fountains Portajohns Trash Cans Volunteers Montour Crossing Safe & Secure Amenities Mile Markers Signs Picnic / Seating Restroom Maint Road Crossing Safe & Secure Snake Management Snow Removal Social Media Administration Camping Emergency Phones Safe & Secure Lighting Safe & Secure Barrier Spacing Safe & Secure Neighbors Too Crowded TOTAL and/or indicated that the respondent had no suggestions. Trail and Surface maintenance was the top comment area (70 total mentions), focused on surface condition, paving, trimming of the sides and tree / obstacle removal. Etiquette in one form or another was the next highest area - with focus on passing, speed, pet leash enforcement and walking 2-3 abreast (58 combined mentions). Gap Completion and connections to other trails / communities received 32 total mentions. There were 6 issues related to safety MTC User Survey 2018 Page 28

29 and that collected 28 mentions. Improved or additional route signage, mile markers and Maps received 19 total mentions. Restoring or adding Events received 15 mentions. Fifteen additional comment areas received 10 or fewer mentions each MTC Event Participation (Q.25) Respondents were asked to identify what MTC-sponsored events that they had participated in during the past 12 months. Just over 70% of respondents have not participated in any MTC activities in the prior year up from 48% in the prior survey. Participation by age group ranges from 17-21% below age 45 to 30-35% above age 45. Participation rates are down for all age groups compared to the prior survey. Count of Resp ID Age # of Events or older Grand Total % of Tot % % % % % % Grand Total % % in 1 or More Events 16.7% 16.7% 21.4% 31.8% 34.6% 31.0% 29.6% National Tunnel 10K run/ 2 mile walk Tour the Montour attracts the largest number of participants (192 of the respondents selected it), and also the most diverse in terms of age and primary activity. Volunteer / Work parties are second with 42 participants - again spanning most age groups and activities. Not surprising, Tour the Montour is the most popular activity for Bikers, the 5K and 10K events are the most popular for Runners and the Trail Walk is the most popular event for the Dog Walkers. The spectrum of events appeals to the spectrum of primary activities of the users. Color bands applied horizontally (by Primary Activity) J. R. Taylor 5K race and walk Volunteer Trail Work Party Annual member s dinner Tour the Montour Twilight Trail Walk Walking/ hiking Dog walking Jogging/ running Biking Other Total MTC User Survey 2018 Page 29

30 6.15 Communications (Q.26) Respondents were asked to indicate the various sources of information that they used to stay informed about the trail and MTC activities. A total of 848 respondents selected 1265 communications options. About 55% of respondents rely on 1 communications channel, and 21% rely on 2, with the balance making use of 3-6 channels. Most mentioned regardless of age or activity is the E-Newsletter (420), followed by the Montour.org and the MT Facebook group (290 and 242 respectively.) Together, these 3 account for 75% of the mentions. Approximately 14% of respondents do not rely on any of the listed communications media, although the most often mentioned "other" means is signage along the trail. The Twitter Acct and Yahoo group only account for 51 mentions combined (4%), down from a combined total of 6% in the prior survey. Almost a quarter of respondents (194) indicated that they rely on Word of Mouth, 88 of which rely solely on this communications means. Once again, a color scale was applied by activity and by age group (across rows). The MTC Newsletter (on-line or ed) is the most mentioned source above age 45. The MTC Facebook page is the most mentioned source for the younger age groups. Twitter and Yahoo are little used by respondents of all ages, and 15% of responses (spread across nearly all age groups) indicate that they rely on "Word of Mouth". Newsletter ( ed or downloaded) Montour Trail Facebook group Newsletter (Hard copy sent by US Mail) Montour Trail Twitter account Montour.org Web site Word of mouth Montour Trail Yahoo group Total Mentions 15 and younger or older Total % 22.9% 19.1% 15.3% 5.3% 2.2% 1.8% Newsletter ( ed or downloaded) Montour Trail Facebook group # of Media # of Resp % of Resp % % % % % % % Grand Total % Newsletter (Hard copy sent by US Mail) Montour Trail Twitter account Montour.org Web site Word of mouth Montour Trail Yahoo group Total Mentions Walking/ hiking Dog walking Jogging/ running Biking Commuting to work o Other Total % 23.0% 19.1% 15.2% 5.5% 2.2% 1.8% 6.16 MTC Financial Participation (Q.27 & 28) Just over half (52%) of respondents indicated that they had made a financial contribution to establish or maintain membership in the trail, up from 46% in (When asked about financial support of the trail, 8% MTC User Survey 2018 Page 30

31 of respondents that answered other questions did not answer this question, and it is assumed in the analysis that they are NOT members.) As in the prior survey, membership is correlated with, and increases with age, from a low of 17% for the youngest respondents to 76% for the most senior band. Rates are up for all age groups compared to the prior survey. Of the most common activities, membership rates for Bikers, Hikers and Dog Walkers are between 58 and 61% - all comparable to or up from Joggers are under-represented with a membership rate of only 28%, similar to the 2016 rate. However, given the correlation between Age and Membership, the difference may be driven as much by age as activity since more older respondents Bike, Hike and Walk than Run. Count of Resp ID Membership (Yes / No / Blank) Age Group No Yes Grand Total 2018 Members 2016 Members % 10% % 16% % 23% % 42% % 60% 66 or older % 68% Grand Total % 46.2% Respondents that indicated that they have not made a contribution were asked why. Two of the three most common answers, given by 30% and 8% of non-members respectively, are to claim to be unaware of the MTC and its activities ( I didn t know about the MTC and I don t know where the money goes ). These totals are down sharply from 2016 (43% and 13%), indicating increased awareness about the MTC. The only other response with more than three mentions indicates that they let it expire (12%), essentially unchanged from The 102 additional reasons given for not being members (all with 3 or fewer mentions each) include apathy, budgeting, minimal use, never thought of it and many others Non-member Reason # of Resp 2018% 2016% I didn t know about the MTC % 43% I used to be, but let it expire 57 12% 11% I don t know where the money goes 38 8% 13% MTC User Survey 2018 Page 31