RICHMOND, Va. -- As businesses close and self-isolation measures increase across Virginia, people are turning to the outdoors to exercise and get some fresh air before heading back inside.
So much so that the Capital Hill Trail in Richmond saw a 65 percent increase in usage in March as compared to the same time last year.
Capital Trail e-counters (trail counters set in designated areas along the Trail to collect usage data) recorded a 65% increase in trail counts compared to last year’s month of March.
The Greensprings section which extends from Jamestown High School to the beginning of the Colonial Parkway saw an increase of 81 percent, while the Chickahominy Riverfront section, which weaves past cornfields and woods towards James City County’s Chickahominy Riverfront Park, recorded a 53 percent increase.
“We are excited to see so many people practicing social distancing and enjoying outdoor activity on the Virginia Capital Trail. We know how valuable it is for people, especially when dealing with stressful situations, to find solace and connection in outdoor activity,” said Cat Anthony, Executive Director of the Virginia Capital Trail.
“We ask that visitors practice self-responsibility and to continue to follow Governor Northam’s and CDC guidelines, maintain a social distance of 6-feet, stay home if you feel sick, and to avoid congested areas, groups of more than 10, and peak hours (11 am -3 pm). If you arrive at a busy trail-head, please consider coming back at a later time."
