Perceptions of Recreation Greenway Impacts Among Rural Community Residents

Abstract

Data were collected in the fall of 1997 from people living near the Kokosing Gap Trail in Northeast Central Ohio to assess perceived socioeconomic impacts of the recreation facility on local community groups. Survey methodology was used to collect data to examine the merits of a vested interest model used to guide the investigation. Study findings demonstrated that the theoretical model was useful for predicting perceived impacts of the trail. An impact assessment scale was developed and was shown to have high reliability. Regression analysis revealed a strong relationship between impact assessment scale scores and variables that could affect the likelihood that local residents would internalize costs and/or benefits associated with the recreation trail. Predictive variables were shown to explain about 51.5 percent of the variance in the dependent variable. Research findings revealed that local people perceived the recreation facility in a positive manner. Residents identified both positive and negative impacts associated with the trail; however, they believed the recreation facility had produced more positive than negative impacts. Study findings suggest that similar projects designed to enhance benefits and reduce disruptions of local lifestyles will probably be well received by local community groups. Suggestions for increasing local benefits are offered for consideration.