Impact survey being conducted on cycling in the Valley

STAUNTON — Bicyclists are invited to partake in an economic impact analysis to see how cycling in the Valley will affect businesses.

The "Bicycling in the Shenandoah Valley" analysis is being conducted by the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission with regional partners from Shenandoah County Tourism, Bryce Resort, Harrisonburg Tourism, Rockingham County, Massanutten Resort, Greater Augusta Regional Tourism, Lexington & the Rockbridge Area Tourism and the Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition, a release said.

According to a release, the study measures multiple levels of impact that cycling has within the Valley, including local retail, lodging and restaurant businesses. This study will create a basis for planning future bicycle tourism marketing to achieve the most positive economic effect possible, the release said.

"Bicycle tourism creates profitable opportunities for Harrisonburg's local retail, lodging and restaurant businesses," said Brenda Black, director of Harrisonburg Tourism and Visitor Services, in a release. "The study will provide valuable information as we evaluate current marketing efforts and explore new markets that will showcase our bicycle-friendly amenities to a larger audience."

Earlier this year, the City of Staunton established the Staunton Bicycle and Pedestrian and Advisory Committee, a six-member panel that will set objectives and offer advice for making the city more accommodating to bikers and walkers.

In May, Staunton cyclists also participated in The Ride of Silence, which took place across the globe to honor bicyclists killed by motorists, promote sharing the road and provide awareness of bicycling safety.

Visitors and residents are encouraged to take the survey, which can be found at surveymonkey.com/s/shenvalleybiking.

Follow Laura Peters@peterslaura and@peterpants. You can reach her atlpeters@newsleader.com or 213-9125.