What happens to the crime rate when a new trail is built?
Several studies have shown that increased trail usage reduces crime and loitering. Safety is related to public visibility, exposure, and the increased numbers of persons with cell phones reporting problems quickly to authorities. Criminals typically use motor vehicles for anonymity and range, not bicycles and footpaths. Mountain View police officials have stated at several public meetings that there has been no increase in crime since the establishment of the trail in Mountain View. Liz Wylie, Community Relations Manager/PIO Mountain View Police Department, reports, Considering how popular our trail is and how long it is, it is very, very safe. Top • How does a trail affect the safety of school children? For communities where a trail is in close proximity of a school, the trail is typically planned to provide a safe route to school. In addition to increasing walking and biking to school, trails can provide a safer environment away from motor vehicle traffic. The trail in Mountain View
