May 4, 2020
This data bulletin looks at trail use captured through DVRPC's permanent bike counters and finds trail use continues to be higher on most trails compared to 2019.
Spring 2020 trail use continues to be high. Last month, DVRPC shared the spike in trail use we saw in March using data from our permanent trail counters. April data looks the same: trail use continues to be higher on most trails compared to 2019 despite worse weather. April 2019 had roughly the same amount of rainy days (5 versus 4), but twice as many days over 60 degrees (26 versus 13). Each month had 8 weekend days, typically the highest use days.
Despite last year's better weather, two of the region's traditionally more lightly trafficked trails, the D&L at Washington Crossing and the US 202 Parkway trail, saw large percentage increases (118% and 138% respectively). The Schuylkill Banks trail, the region's most heavily trafficked trail segment, actually saw an 18% drop in use. This drop could be due in part to the weather, but the continued high use of other trails suggests users may be seeking out more lightly trafficked trails in order to maintain physical distance.
A shift in the time of day cyclists are using our trails is also occurring. As more of our region's workforce works from home rather than commuting to their workplace, usage has shifted away from the double peak "rush hours" more typical on trails used for commuting to a single "recreational" peak in the afternoon. Wissahickon trail weekday bicycle data illustrates that the April 2019 bicycle "rush hour" peaks at the beginning and end of the workday shifted in April 2020 to a single, late afternoon peak profile, more typical of recreational users.
As we celebrate Bike Month this May, continue to stay safe. Follow national guidance on physical distancing such as wearing a mask and maintaining a physical distance of at least 6' from others. Consider going on a ride in the morning instead of the afternoon, and go the extra mile by waiting to pass, signalling your approach, and maintaining a single file in some locations.
Explore DVRPC's Permanent Bicycle and Pedestrian Count web page for more details!