Statistics

Bike and Pedestrian Resources

BikeWalk Virginia just completed research to provide the first ever comprehensive picture of the current state of biking and walking planning, resources, accommodations, and safety in the State of Virginia.The study consists of two parts. Part I collected data from all counties, cities, and towns between 2006 and 2009. Part II consists of a statistical analysis to assess the relationship between the current level of biking and walking resources and injuries to bicyclists and pedestrians involving motor vehicle collisions. 

Localities were surveyed about biking and walking resources. The data from responding localities was translated into the newly developed Virginia Active Transportation Index. Localities received scores from 0-11 on the index based on the number or resources they reported.

The following elements, each suggesting a level of commitment to bicycles and pedestrians, were included in the index: comprehensive transportation plan, bicycle plan, pedestrian plan, greenway plan, bicycle advisory committee, pedestrian advisory committee, greenway advisory committee, law requiring persons 14 and under to wear a helmet, paved bike trails, striped bike lanes, and grants. Notably Three localities (cities and counties) earned the highest possible Virginia Active Transportation Index score of 11 points:

1. City of Alexandria

2. Arlington County

3. City of Harrisonburg

Virginia Active Transportation Index results were mapped.

Localities that did not respond were reflected as a score of zero on mapping. Two localities scored 1 point:

Highland County and Westmoreland County. Twenty-two scored 5 to 7 points. Five reported 10 to 11 resources.

Full VATI score findings, regional averages, and locality responses are provided in the full report.   

Researchers concluded that Virginia has significant need for greater inclusion of biking and pedestrian resources of all types. The number of localities participating in planning for biking and walking is alarmingly low in a time when attention to healthy and environmentally forms of transportation and recreation is critical. Resources vary widely across the state with greater numbers of resources grouped in high density areas, yet needs for bicycle and pedestrians accommodations stretch across the state.The Richmond region drew particular attention of the researchers. Richmond City did not provide a response, but Chesterfield scored 5 points, Hanover 4, and Henrico 3 of 11 possible points. Large regional gaps exist in resources and more should be done to encourage increased planning and awareness of bike and pedestrian needs in localities from rural to urban.

Additional evaluation of the impact of greenways would also provide useful information. Thirty-three percent of localities reported including greenways initiatives planning. The researchers pose that greenways may present an important opportunity to bridge the gap between needed resources of multiple stakeholder groups and accomplishable goals based on resource limitations. In all, study findings supports that more work needs to take place to include biking and walking into the transportation picture. Injury and fatality data shows that more can be done to improve the safety of Virginia roadways for non-motorized users. Not only is inclusion of biking and walking an important part of the transportation needs of Virginia, it is also beneficial for the health of both residents and the environment.

Download the Executive Summary

Download the Full Part I Report

Crash Facts

In January 2008, the Virginia Highway Safety Office announced their new website with the latest Virginia crash statistics; safety tips for mature drivers, young drivers, pedestrians, and motorcycles; helpful safety information for parents; a calendar featuring statewide safety events; and more.