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Background on 2024 Wayfinding and
Amenities Study 

Why is NVRC looking at wayfinding and amenities on the PHNST?

I. Outcomes from the Strategic Partnership Plan for the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail​ 2022-2027:

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This plan included a focus on improving branding, marketing, wayfinding and signage so visitors can understand how to access, enjoy, and support the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail​.

 

Learn more about the Strategic Partnership Plan.

Screenshot of the document, Outline of Strategic Partnership Plan for the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail.

II. Results from the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail 2022 Northern Virginia Corridor Analysis: 

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During the development of the Corridor Analysis, the PHNST management stakeholders identified a range of priorities and needs to advance and promote the trail. Top needs amongst all management stakeholders include increased wayfinding and interpretation materials as well as funding for trail maintenance activities​.

 

A number of management stakeholders discussed the need for inventorying assistance to be able to identify the wayfinding and amenities that exist along their section of the trail.

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Learn more at the Corridor Analysis here. 

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Cover image of the 2022 Corridor Analysis Report

III. Results from the 2021 study "Health, Social Equity, and Economic Impact of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail in Northern Virginia":

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  • Findings indicated that "the biggest deterrents to participants and their families using the trail include a lack of accommodations (i.e., parking and restrooms) particularly for seniors and persons with disabilities, accessible online information, and wayfinding signage along the trail". ​

  • It revealed gaps in access points along the trail in moderately high and high socially vulnerable Census tracts. ​

  • Beyond direct links to the trail, improved pedestrian and bike infrastructure in the greater trail corridor would encourage additional use by residents. ​

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Learn more about the Health, Social Equity, and Economic Impact study.

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Screenshot of "Benefits of Existing Trail" infographic, outreach material for 2022 Health, Social Equity, and Economic Impact Study

Fall Webinar Event

Webinar

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NVRC shared the results of the study on Monday, October 21st from 11 am - 12 pm. The virtual event offered an opportunity to share findings from the study, ways to view the mapped data, new interpretive signage, and next steps for a PHNST wayfinding and amenities implementation plan.

 

For any questions, please contact Linnea Sherman at lsherman@novaregion.org. 

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Study Results & Maps


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​Report of Study Findings 






 

4,325 
Locations Surveyed

2,564
Wayfinding Points

1,007
Amenities

465
Information Panels

​NVRC finalized the study in fall 2024 and produced a report highlighting the data collected, key takeaways from wayfinding and amenity distributions, and next steps for developing a wayfinding and amenities implementation plan. Key data points include: 

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Interactive Maps

NVRC also produced online maps to explore the locations of the existing wayfinding signs, amenities, and informational panels along the trail, including photos and current condition of each item: ​

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