Challenge

In Massachusetts, as in many places, trail funding often goes toward expanding networks with new segments. While growth is important, existing trails need attention too if they are to remain safe, comfortable, and useful for the public. Agencies responsible for these facilities have not always had the data they need to understand which segments most require maintenance and modernization; this in turn makes it difficult to prioritize the limited funding that exists.

Solution

Building on lessons from similar studies in Minnesota and Iowa, Kittelson partnered with MassTrails to develop a data collection plan for measuring surface condition, identifying major assets along trails, and capturing extensive reference imagery. Our team built the MassTrails Data Bike, an electric bicycle equipped with specialized tools including a smartphone with data collection applications, a 360-degree camera, and a GoPro. Over the course of Summer and Fall 2022, this bike was ridden across 345 miles of Massachusetts trails, gathering detailed information on surface condition, documenting key assets, and capturing reference imagery.

After the data rides were complete, Kittelson analyzed the surface condition data and produced a public-facing report and an internal memo that highlighted the results of the study.