The Journal of the Transportation Research Board, Inc., examined whether urban, multiuse trail users are more likely to spend money and support retail businesses in trail corridors. The study looked at the results of intercept surveys from 1,282 trail users on the Central Ohio Greenway trail network in 2014 to estimate the probabilities and patterns of the users' expenditures.

Approximately one-fifth of trail users reported spending between $15.00 and $20.00 for food, drink, and other incidental items. Across all trail users, the average expenditure by individuals was about $3.00 per visit. Users visiting trails principally for recreation were 53 percent more likely to spend, while users visiting trails mainly for exercise were about 19 percent less likely. Longer trips to and on the trails were associated with higher spending. The results can be used to inform local planning, marketing, and economic development activities related to local trail networks.