Survey Seeks Community Input on Trails

Central Ohio Greenways wants to know how you utilize pathways

MOUNT VERNON, Feb. 15, 2022 – How do trails make a difference in your life and community?

The Central Ohio Trail Community Survey, distributed by Central Ohio Greenways, wants your input to gain a better understanding of the value Mount Vernon residents place on the Ohio to Erie Trail, which extends from Cincinnati to Cleveland, as well as biking and walking trails generally.

Central Ohio Greenways, which is part of the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC), is asking residents and businesses in Mount Vernon, Centerburg, Sunbury and London to share their thoughts on what value they attach to trails, when they visit them, how well they feel local agencies maintain the trails, and whether trail connectivity across the region can be improved.

In addition to trail users, Central Ohio Greenways hopes members of various civic and youth groups, health and tourism organizations and education officials will take a moment to take the brief, 25-question survey as well.

The Ohio to Erie Trail covers 326 miles from the Ohio River to Lake Erie. Across central Ohio, it incorporates the Kokosing Gap, Heart of Ohio, Alum Creek, Roberts Pass, Prairie Grass and Downtown Connector trails.

Previous surveys have shown that these trails are heavily utilized, with users logging about 12 million miles annually on the trails in central Ohio alone. Regional planners have noted time and again that walking and biking trails add value to a community, have positive economic impacts and, not surprisingly, can improve the overall health of local residents.

The Central Ohio Trail Community Survey will be open until March 10. All answers will be kept