A Comparison Between Fargo and Grand Forks, North Dakota Citizens no Bicycle Usage and Attitudes

The purpose of this study was to compare Fargo and Grand Forks residents on the status of bicycle usage and attitudes in order to determine the feasibility of bikeway implementation. The survey method was employed in this study. One thousand questionnaires were sent to the residents of Grand Forks and Fargo, 500 to each city. However, 180 questionnaires were returned address unknown. Therefore, 820 questionnaires were received by the addressees in both cities. Two hundred and thirty-three, or 28.4 per cent, individuals responded to the questionnaire. One hundred and ten, or 28.6 per cent, Fargoans and 123, or 28.2 per cent, Grand Forks residents responded to the questionnaire. The data obtained from the questionnaires were transferred to computer cards for analysis. The information was then arranged into tables for analysis and interpretation. As a result of the findings obtained during the investigation the following conclusions appeared warranted: 1. Although Grand Forks citizens of all ages may ride bicycles, the typical rider is young, male and rides for one reason at a time. On the whole, all of the riders use their bikes for exercise, sport and pleasure, but are more serious about the transportation aspect. These serious riders use their bikes for short periods of time, usually to travel from one place to another. 2. Although many Fargo citizens of all ages ride bicycles, the typical rider is young and male. Bicycle usage is usually of the single interest type. All of the bicyclists use their bikes for exercise, sport and transportation. However, Fargo residents are more interested in riding for relaxation and enjoyment than Grand Forks riders. These pleasure riders use their bicycles for longer periods of time, usually for weekend jaunts through the parks. 3. On the whole, residents of both Fargo and Grand Forks possess a healthy attitude toward biking as a recreational activity. However, a provincial attitude prevails which limits biking activity to the confines of the city. Residents in both cities felt cic\u3e parks and city streets should be developed for bike paths and bikeways before attention and money was given to other areas for development. 4. On the whole, many Grand Forks and Fargo residento ride their bicycles for intra-city usage. However, the idea of using their bicycles for longer periods of time and for long distances held their interest. Cross-country bikeway development was approved by the population. However, residents in both cities could be considered home bodies in 1974 and in no particular rush to venture beyond the city limits. They felt the future held more opportunities and if the facilities existed, they would probably use them. 5. On the whole, residents from Grand Forks and Fargo had a positive attitude toward all aspects of bicycling. However, there were those who were disturbed by the dangers involved. They felt that this aspect limited the potential of full participation in this type of recreational activity. And, until these problems were solved, it would be best to remain within the confines of the city