Using a Collaborative Approach to Developing a Regional Bicycle Tourism Plan

Abstract

With the goal of establishing a premier bicycle tourism area in the Northeast, a study team undertook a collaborative approach to developing the Bicycle Master Plan for the Adirondack North Country Region of New York State. A regional tourism committee that oversaw the year-long planning effort consisted of individuals representing a number of state agencies, local governments, nonprofit organizations, and Chambers of Commerce. A combination of informal interviews, meetings, presentations, a regional bicycle conference, and two mail survey efforts provided the opportunity to triangulate data and confirm the necessary ''next steps.'' The results from this effort are outlined in addition to recommendations that provide guidance to interested tourism organizations and bicycle- related businesses on the most cost-effective means of developing promotional materials, and offer suggestions for a regional marketing approach focused on bicycling.