MetroBikeLink Survey Results Reinforce Trail System Usability and Value
St. Clair County Transit District (SCCTD) announced the results of a survey it recently conducted to help quantify the impact of the MetroBikeLink System, which consists of 14 miles of trails and bike paths that run adjacent to the MetroLink alignment in Southwestern Illinois. Results from surveyed MetroBikeLink users were favorable and reinforced the system’s usability and value.
Surveys were disseminated via SCCTD’s website and social media channels, as well as through ambassador engagement with bikers, runners and walkers when utilizing the system. A total of 200 surveys were completed in 36 different zip codes throughout the region over a three-week period in late September into early October. Questions were centered around utilization, accessibility, maintenance, cleanliness and overall value of the MetroBikeLink System.
Following are a few key highlights from the survey:
- More than 50 percent of respondents say they use the trail at least three times a week – and 17 percent of those say they use it daily.
- Biking is the primary activity on the trail, followed by walking and then running.
- More than 80 percent of respondents noted “health and exercise” as the primary reason for using the trail system, followed by recreation, commuting and transit access.
- More than 85 percent of respondents rated trail system maintenance as “good” or “excellent.”
- More than 97 percent of respondents rated trail system cleanliness as “good” or “excellent.”
- Nearly 98 percent of all respondents said the MetroBikeLink System adds value to their local community.
- Comments were highly favorably with regards to accessibility, beautification, safety and security, friendliness of staff and overall experiences.
- Comments also included recommendations for additional restrooms, clearer signage and other improvements, as well as expansion ideas.
“The results of the survey are encouraging,” commented Herb Simmons, Chair of the St. Clair County Transit District Board of Trustees. “I am happy to see the community utilizes the trails and bike paths and appreciates its value. Feedback on ways to improve the system will also be taken into consideration.”
The first section of the MetroBikeLink System opened in 2002 and was comprised of a four-mile trail from Southwestern Illinois College to the Swansea MetroLink Station. Since then, the system has expanded to include the Memorial Section, Fairview Heights Sections, SCCTD Orchard Loop Trail Phases I & II and the Shiloh Scott sections – which all connect back to the original trail. SCCTD most recently completed construction of the new Engelmann Farm Connector Trail. This .66-mile trail runs parallel along the west side of Shiloh Station Road in Shiloh from the existing MetroBikeLink at NSRR to Stonewall Lane. This section of trail connects Shiloh residence to the current MetroBikeLink system. The project included construction of a HMA trail and concrete sidewalk, as well as drainage improvements. This trail will eventually connect to the St Clair County Engleman Park.
Currently, the MetroBikeLink System runs from the Shiloh/Scott MetroLink Station to the Fairview Heights MetroLink Station, providing access to six MetroLink Stations and four different communities. Phase I & II of the Old Collinsville Road Trail, featuring another approximately 1.7-miles of trail, are currently in design and will further the system’s interconnectivity. These trails are expected to open in 2023.
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