Biking: Trail impact study under way
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A few minutes of your time.
That's all the Trail Town Program, Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau and Allegheny Trail Alliance are asking for.
By taking time to answer 12 questions, users of the Great Allegheny Passage will be participating in an economic impact study and doing a favor for themselves, other trail users and businesses situated along the passage from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Md.
From now through October, volunteers stationed at trailhead towns along the passage will be asking trail users for their zip code, where they began their ride, where they plan to end it and whether it's their first trip on the passage.
They will also ask riders traveling together how many are in their group, their ages and their estimate on how much they might spend on snacks and beverages, rental equipment, transportation, clothing and restaurants.
If a group is staying overnight, they'll be asked how many nights they plan to spend along the trail and where they'll stay -- B&B, campground, guest house, hostel, motel, hotel, a friend or relative's home or somewhere else. They'll also be asked how much money the group plans to spend on overnight accommodations per night.
The volunteers asking the questions, many of whom will be wearing easily recognizable bright yellow T-shirts, will be in Homestead, McKeesport, Boston, West Newton, Connellsville, Ohiopyle, Confluence, Rockwood, Meyersdale, Frostburg and Cumberland.
Trail Town Program manager Amy Camp said the program is looking for teams of at least 10 volunteers per town to conduct about 50 surveys a month.
"Volunteers will be needed two to three days per week," Camp said. "Their days and times will vary. Individual members don't have to commit to specific times and days each week. Any amount of volunteer time will be greatly appreciated."
Camp said volunteers will be required to complete two training sessions, both over the phone.
First Published July 23, 2011 12:00 am
