Wasson Way Trail and Red Bike at Xavier University: A descriptive epidemiology of trail users and physical activity behaviors
Start Date
7-8-2026 11:00 AM
End Date
7-8-2026 11:15 AM
Location
ALT 206
Abstract
Purpose: Cities are increasingly expanding trail networks to promote physical activity and active transportation. Cincinnati's CROWN initiative is developing a 34-mile multi-use trail loop around the city, including recent expansions of the Wasson Way Trail through Xavier University's campus and the addition of new Red Bike stations. Understanding how these facilities are used, who uses them, and for what purposes is essential for evaluating community health benefits, guiding future infrastructure investments, and addressing concerns related to e-bike use and trail safety.
Methods: From June through August 2026, a comprehensive assessment of trail use was conducted along the Wasson Way corridor between Ault Park Bridge and Blair Court. Trail-intercept surveys were administered at multiple locations during morning, midday, and evening periods across weekdays and weekends to capture a representative sample of users. Systematic observational counts were performed near three existing trail counters to validate user counts and mode classification (walking vs. cycling). Bicycle speed data were collected using a law-enforcement-issued radar gun.
Results: Across 11 data collection days, 577 trail-intercept surveys have been completed and more than 3,100 trail users directly observed. Additionally, four days of trail counter validation and bicycle speed monitoring have been completed.
Conclusions: These findings will improve understanding of trail use patterns and user characteristics, inform future trail planning and management, support safe trail use, and identify opportunities to increase participation in health-enhancing physical activity among community residents.
Wasson Way Trail and Red Bike at Xavier University: A descriptive epidemiology of trail users and physical activity behaviors
ALT 206
Purpose: Cities are increasingly expanding trail networks to promote physical activity and active transportation. Cincinnati's CROWN initiative is developing a 34-mile multi-use trail loop around the city, including recent expansions of the Wasson Way Trail through Xavier University's campus and the addition of new Red Bike stations. Understanding how these facilities are used, who uses them, and for what purposes is essential for evaluating community health benefits, guiding future infrastructure investments, and addressing concerns related to e-bike use and trail safety.
Methods: From June through August 2026, a comprehensive assessment of trail use was conducted along the Wasson Way corridor between Ault Park Bridge and Blair Court. Trail-intercept surveys were administered at multiple locations during morning, midday, and evening periods across weekdays and weekends to capture a representative sample of users. Systematic observational counts were performed near three existing trail counters to validate user counts and mode classification (walking vs. cycling). Bicycle speed data were collected using a law-enforcement-issued radar gun.
Results: Across 11 data collection days, 577 trail-intercept surveys have been completed and more than 3,100 trail users directly observed. Additionally, four days of trail counter validation and bicycle speed monitoring have been completed.
Conclusions: These findings will improve understanding of trail use patterns and user characteristics, inform future trail planning and management, support safe trail use, and identify opportunities to increase participation in health-enhancing physical activity among community residents.
