The analysis is complete and the results are in for the Truckee Trails Foundation 2023 Trails Survey. A big thanks to everyone that provided feedback on this year’s topic: Paved Trails and Bike Lanes.
There were some standout results and a few continuing historical trends. Let’s walk through the high level results.
PAVED TRAILS
#1 Martis Valley Trail is an instant hit. A relative newcomer that completed just last summer, the paved trail alternative to CA 267 up to Northstar Drive saw 50% of respondents list it as a favorite. It lands in 3rd spot after the overwhelming favorite, Legacy Trail (linking Glenshire to downtown Truckee) with 93%, and Trout Creek Trail (connector from Tahoe Donner to downtown Truckee) at 55%.
#2 Paved Trails Very Popular with Use Still Split. E-Bikes on the Rise. Walking and biking are still the most popular activities on paved trails like Legacy or Trout Creek Trails. No surprise here – this was envisioned 20 years ago in the original Town of Truckee Master Plan and a critical part of TTF’s vision for viable local transport alternatives to autos. E-Bike use is creeping up – 33% of respondents checked this box when asked how they use paved trails.
#3 Mixed Pave Trail Use Causes Some Conflict. When asked about inappropriate or dangerous paved trail use issues, leading responses centered on dogs (not picking up waste and dogs unleashed out of control) and excessive bike speeds. TTF is leading the discussion on the latter item – speeding bikes – with the Town of Truckee right now Stay tuned for more details in the coming weeks.
BIKE LANES
#4 Bike Lanes Useful for Many but Riders Encounter Issues. About 81% of respondents said they use bike lanes for recreation at least a few times a year, while 29% use bike lanes for commuting. Pedestrians walking and cars encroaching in or parking within bike lanes are an issue for some, while potholes or cracks in the pavement still cause problems for a few riders within bike lanes.
RESPONDENTS
About three-quarters of survey respondents are full-time respondents, 19% are part-time, and 7% are occasional visitors. Survey takers were split about evenly between male and female, and self-reported an age range between 25 and 65+.
As always, reply to this email with questions or comments. Your feedback is important.