251613 Using trails to enhance connectivity and physical activity in rural areas

Tuesday, November 1, 2011: 8:50 AM

Stephanie S. Frost, MAOM , Health Research Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV
Carole V. Harris, PhD , ICF International, Atlanta, GA
Andrew S. Bradlyn, PhD , ICF Macro, Morgantown, WV
Molly Matthews, MS , Department of Community Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV
Kristy Blower, MA , Office of Child Nutrition, West Virginia Department of Education, Charleston, WV
Keri Kennedy, MPH , Office of Child Nutrition, West Virginia Department of Education, Charleston, WV
Lucas C. Moore, EdD , Health Research Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV
Kimberly Bosworth Blake, PharmD, MBA , Department of Pharmaceutical Systems and Policy, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV
Jessica Coffman, MA , Health Research Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV
Lauren Penwell, MA , Health Research Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV
     
Background: A six county area of West Virginia is one of 50 sites implementing the Communities Putting Prevention to Work (CPPW) initiative, and increasing the proportion of youth and adults who meet national guidelines for physical activity (PA) is a primary goal. To attain this goal, the CPPW team is increasing PA opportunities by increasing connectivity between destinations via trails and sidewalks; developing land- use policies; implementing a comprehensive trail signage policy and increasing signage; and scheduling regular PA events on trails to increase visibility and social support.

Methods: Baseline assessments of the built environment were conducted in Fall 2010 and included the number/ location of trails and direct observations of trail conditions, trail signage, and resident usage. Trail locations were also geo-coded and matched to population density. A total of 49 trails were identified across the region and repeated observations were conducted of 11 trails specifically targeted for improvement. The enhanced evaluation of trails and connectivity will begin January 2011 and follow-up assessments will occur in Spring 2012.

Results: Trail lengths varied from .25 to 3 miles and surfaces were asphalt, crushed lime, or dirt. The most frequently observed trail activity was walking followed by running and biking. The average number of walkers/ trail was 3.3 (range: 0-18); 3 of 11 trails did not have signage.

Conclusions: Baseline assessments and current status of environmental and policy interventions are discussed along with the opportunities/challenges associated with environmental and policy interventions in rural areas.

Learning Areas:
Chronic disease management and prevention
Public health or related public policy

Learning Objectives:
Describe the variables impacting the development of policy, systems, and environmental interventions for connectivity and physical activity in a rural community. Explain methods used to prioritize and assess trail interventions.

Keywords: Physical Activity, Rural Communities

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: : I am qualified to be presenting in the CPPW trails session because I have research experience examining the influence of the physical environment in rural areas with regard to physical activity. I am also a member of the evaluation team for the West Virginia CPPW initiative and I have been directly involved in the development of our trail measures and trail observation training.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

See more of: Creating Healthier Communities: the Built Environment and Physical Activity
See more of: Physical Activity