Bicycle Facilities in Highland, Illinois: An Assessment of Potential Users

Author

Suanne Davendonis, Southern Illinois University CarbondaleFollow

Date of Award

5-1-2010

Degree Name

Master of Science in Education

Department

Recreation

First Advisor

Ward, Whitney

Abstract

ABSTRACT OF THE THESIS OF Suanne R. Davendonis, for the Master of Science degree in Education, presented on December 10 of 2009 at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. TITLE: BICYCLE FACILITIES IN HIGHLAND, ILLINOIS: AN ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL USERS MAJOR PROFESSOR: Dr. Whitney Ward This study was conducted to determine likely users of bicycle facilities in Highland, Illinois. Highland is a rural community in southern Illinois with a population of just fewer than 10,000 people, located about 30 miles east of St. Louis, Missouri. Specifically, the study looked at possible relationships between gender, age, active walkers, and a desire for biking or bike trails in Highland. The study drew on data from the 2008 Highland Parks and Recreation Community Survey used to determine the wants and needs of the community in order to provide added focus and priority for the Parks and Recreation Department. The survey was completed by 148 respondents, of which data from 73 surveys were used in the study. Gender makeup was 57 females and 14 males, and 2 who did not declare their gender. The 21 question survey included a question with 28 activities asking the respondent to select an unlimited number of choices from those activities that he or she would like to see more offered or have those activities provided. Two of those activities were biking and bike trails. The survey also asked which, if any, walking facilities were used at the community's nine parks and recreation facilities. Statistical analysis showed no significant relationship between gender and a desire for biking or bike trails. Age had some effect on a desire for biking but no significant effect on a desire for bike trails. Lastly, being an active walker did show an association with a desire for biking or bike trails; however, it was a weak correlation.