A Bicycling in the Shenandoah Valley Economic Impact Analysis (EIA) is currently being conducted by the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission (CSPDC) in conjunction with regional partners from Shenandoah County Tourism, Bryce Resort, Harrisonburg Tourism, Rockingham County, Massanutten Resort, Greater Augusta Regional Tourism, Lexington & the Rockbridge Area Tourism and the Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition.
The study will look at and measure multiple levels of impact that cycling has within the Shenandoah Valley region, particularly on local retail, lodging and restaurant businesses. This study will create a basis for planning future bicycle tourism marketing to achieve the most positive economic effect possible.
A survey aimed at both visitor and resident bicyclists will collect study data. Cyclists that would like to take the survey can find it here: www.surveymonkey.com/s/shenvalleybiking. All survey responses are confidential and respondents are invited to enter to win several prizes provided by businesses around the area. The drawing will take place in November 2015.
Brenda Black, Director of Harrisonburg Tourism and Visitor Services commented about the importance of bicycling to the region: “Bicycle tourism creates profitable opportunities for Harrisonburg’s local retail, lodging and restaurant businesses. The study will provide valuable information as we evaluate current marketing efforts and explore new markets that will showcase our bicycle-friendly amenities to a larger audience.”
For more information on the region’s bicycle and pedestrian program, contact the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission at [email protected], (540) 885-5174.
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