Economic Impact of Off Road Cycling in Duluth: An Expenditures Approach

Abstract

Through the use of a survey taken by 384 people, data analysis, and IMPLAN this study quantified the extent of economic impact and satisfaction levels of Duluth mountain bike trail users. First the demographics of trail users were analyzed to conclude that the majority of riders in Duluth are male with annual income levels that varied greatly across respondents. 57% of survey respondents were between the ages of 30 and 49, and 57% ride the Duluth mountain bike trails at least once per week. Overall, Duluth mountain bike trail users are satisfied with the various aspects of the trails such as the variety of trails, bike friendly amenities, number of trails, etc. Results of this study show that mountain bikers in Duluth who ride these trails contribute $36.6 million to $48.9 million a year to the Duluth economy. This number includes an economic impact of $10.9 million to $14.5 million from local trail users and an economic impact of $25.8 million to $34.4 million from nonlocal trail users. One can see that the original estimated cost of $6.1 million to $7 million, to add an additional 70 miles to the Duluth Mountain biking trail system, is economically beneficial to the Duluth economy. The original investment is creating annual returns greater than the original costs.