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Capital Connector Trail Main
Trail Map
Partnerships
Ingham County Parks Main
Page |
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CRIME ON TRAILS?
One of the largest misconceptions
regarding trails is that when they are built, crime will
increase along the
trail route. Studies throughout the United States have concluded
that these claims are completely unsubstantiated.
- "South Portland does not have a crime problem related to
its Greenbelt Trail. The heavier the use, the safer they are,
because, bad guys are concerned about being detected. It seems
safe to conclude that trails in Maine, like those in other
parts of the country, do not encourage crime." -South
Portland’s Chief of Police Edward Googins (Andrews)
- This study indicates that concerns about decreased
property values, increased crime, and a lower quality of life
due to the construction of multi-use trails are unfounded. In
fact, the opposite is true. The study indicates that multi-use
trails are an amenity that helps sell homes, increase property
values, and improve quality of life. (Zarker 1987).
- There are many perceptions that when you build a trail
system, along with the trail, also comes increased crime.
Actually, the opposite is true. Numerous studies across the
United States have shown that ideas and perceptions of
increased crime are unfounded. Reports from law enforcement
officials "confirmed that trails do not encourage, and are
more a deterrent to, crime." (Tioughnioga River Trail Study)
One nationwide survey reports that the Chief of Police in
South Burlington, Vermont wrote to a local planning agency,
"Crime and the fear of crime do not flourish in an environment
of high energy and healthy interaction among law abiding
community members." He went on to say, "The trail may be one of
the safest places in the city." (Andrews) |
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