Bicycle Economic Impact Survey Update

An update from the Central Shenandoah Valley Planning District

Between April and November 2015, the CSPDC conducted a survey for the “Bicycling in the Shenandoah Valley” Economic Impact Analysis (EIA).  Over 1,500 residents and visitors participated in the survey, 45% of which were visitors and 55% residents.  Preliminary survey results indicate that of the visitors, most were advanced/serious riders.  The most popular months for visits were May and September, and over half of survey-takers participated in a bike event while in the area.  Residents that took the survey were primarily intermediate/recreational road biking enthusiasts.  When asked about improvements to bicycle facilities, their top choices were wide paved shoulders, designated bike lanes, and multi-use paths.

Survey responses on bicyclists’ expenditures will be run through an economic impact model to estimate the economic impact of bicycle tourism, events, and businesses in the region.  The final report is expected to be available in March 2016.  The report will include additional details from the survey and recommend future efforts to better promote the region’s bicycling events and activities as well as to improve the riding experience for bicyclists in the Shenandoah Valley.  This study is sponsored by Shenandoah County, Bryce Resort, City of Harrisonburg, Rockingham County, Massanutten Resort, Greater Augusta Regional Tourism, Lexington & the Rockbridge Area Tourism, and the Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition and coordinated by the CSPDC.