A new survey has shown that Warren County Bikeway and Feeder Canal Trail users want more public restrooms along the trails, along with winter snow removal for more cold-weather usage.
Those requests stem from the preliminary results from a user survey for the trails that is being used to inform the development of the plan to modernize and improve the multi-use trail system that connects Lake George to the Empire State Trail.
The information was compiled from an online survey last fall that focused on trail use, to which over 600 people responded.
This data collection was part of the first phase of Modernization and Connectivity Plan for Multi-Use Trails that resulted in a survey of Bikeway and Feeder Canal users, which is being overseen by Warren County Department of Planning & Community Development and consulting firm Barton & Loguidice, D.P.C.
The user survey information will be incorporated into a detailed physical evaluation of trail conditions, road crossings, and associated infrastructure that is being drafted by the projects engineering consultant. Due to the geographic scale of the project (17 miles, 10 of which are Warren County Bikeway and 7 for the Feeder Canal Trail) public input will help inform how needed improvements are prioritized.
The next step of the project is to determine connections between the existing trails and the downtown areas of Lake George Village, Glens Falls, and Hudson Falls and to identify a connection between the eastern and western segments of the Feeder Canal Trail in Glens Falls.
Safe, apparent, and comfortable connections from the existing trails to downtown areas is intended to increase visitation and accessibility to commercial areas. Trail usage has surged since the pandemic and by providing connections to downtowns should increase visitor spending and generate increased economic activity in our region.
This spring and summer there will be public outreach in Glens Falls, Hudson Falls, and Lake George to evaluate possible trail connections.
Ultimately this project will identify and evaluate the most appropriate trail connections so that additional state and federal funding can be pursued for implementation.
A website has been created to show results of the survey, results of trail use counts and an interactive map of the trails that allows for commenting on sections of trail. Data from in-person trail surveys performed during June 2023 are also included on the site.
Some highlights from the survey:
Trail User Demographics
- Age Groups: A significant portion of the respondents are within the 51-65 age group (34%), followed by 36-50 (26%), 65+ (25%), and 16-35 (15%). Less than 1% are under 16.
Trail Usage Patterns
- Entry Points and Activities: Respondents access the trail from various locations, notably Battlefield Park and Feeder Canal Park. Activities include biking, walking, and running/jogging, highlighting the need for a trail design that caters to different activities through clear signage, designated lanes, and supportive infrastructure.
- E-bike Usage: E-bikes constitute 13% of trail usage, indicating a preference for accessible biking options.
Transportation to Trails
- Modes of Transport: 39% bike to the trail, 37% drive, and 21% walk, with a small percentage using other modes (3%).
Trail User Interactions
- Quality of Interactions: The majority view interactions between cyclists and pedestrians positively, with 60% rating them as good and 18% as excellent. However, 18% rated them as fair and 4% as poor.
- Concerns and Suggestions: Safety concerns, especially regarding cyclists' speed, and the importance of etiquette are highlighted. Suggestions include improved signage and educational efforts to foster a culture of shared use and courtesy.
Desired Amenities along Trails
- Top Amenities Requested:
- Restrooms (26%)
- Snow Removal in Winter (17%)
- Lighting (13%)
- Neighborhood Connections (11%)
- Historical Interpretation (8%)
- Additional Seating Areas (7%)
- Bike Storage/Bike Repair (6%)
- Additional Parking (5%)
Warren County Department of Planning and Community Development asked that trail users review the website, data and findings and email any additional commentary to gaddye@warrencountyny.gov .
Public meetings and engagement sessions will be scheduled later this spring on dates to be determined.