Evaluation Tool for Proposed Multi-Use Trails

About the report:

This report describes a screening tool for comparing multi-use trails (MUTs) that could compete for funding from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) or other state sources. The tool scores, based on selected geographic information system (GIS)-processed factors for which metrics are available by trail segment, are calculated in Excel using variable elective weights. The tool has been designed around an internal sample of trails provided to the researchers by VDOT, and it is available as a supplemental file to this report.

The tool’s objective is to measure the relative potential user demand for each MUT segment in the internal sample, on the logic that the agency has a charge to install transportation facilities where demand for them is greatest. With respect to MUTs, potential demand encompasses both utilitarian and recreational uses. The tool incorporates both sources of demand for MUTs through factors described by data capable of geolocation and GIS processing. In the tool, factor metrics by trail segment are normalized, and users can adjust weights on factor metrics so that priorities can be explored.

Additional consideration is given to two requests expressed by the project champion at the outset of the research, which are consideration of equity and a regional perspective. Equity dimensions of MUTs are carefully examined in the literature review, and two factors in the tool are selected to address the regional perspective. These efforts notwithstanding, two important factors bearing on equity and affecting potential trail demand lie outside the reach of the tool described here, which are community interest in a proposed MUT and the quality of connectivity provided to a MUT network by a specific segment.

It is recommended that VDOT use the tool results as a preliminary model for ranking the relative demand for specific MUTs. However, because the tool is only one of several inputs into the planning process, site-specific factors not encompassed by the tool, such as a proposed trail’s acceptance by the community and the role the trail plays in network connectivity, may be used to supplement these rankings.

Supplemental materials can be found at https://library.vdot.virginia.gov/vtrc/supplements

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