Ashley Linn, ’24, and Dr. Douglas Gregory, Associate Professor of Exercise Science, collaborated with the City of Athens Parks and Recreation Department to study the trail systems in Athens. This project led to Ashely receiving a summer research scholarship through the Appalachian College Association, as well as numerous regional and national presentations on the research project. 

Part of this project included a report that could be used by local officials and the public interested in trail usage and the health of those using the trails. 

The Greenway infrastructure in Athens Tennessee spans across 12.7 miles of trails, and features specifically the Eureka, Regional Park, and Veterans Park trails. 

To accurately track the trail usage, Ashley Linn, used infrared trail counters to document whenever someone passed by a counter. The data collected from these counters were downloaded monthly and uploaded to an online data management software.

However, to ensure the data was accurate, she also developed and deployed a survey to supplement demographic data. These efforts made were an attempt to ensure that the data being recorded was accounting for different variables and providing the most accurate results possible.

Ultimately, the data recorded showed that the primary purpose of the trails is for recreation and exercise, the goal of this research is to document that these trails need to be expanded to create access for all and to seek trail advocates from the community to create a safe and coherent understanding of the trails in Athens Tennessee.

Click here to view the full report.