Draft Comprehensive Transportation Plan Update_September 25

DRAFT

Off-Street Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities Multi-use path planning incorporates transportation, recreation, and health elements. Depending on the community, multi-use paths are represented by a variety of forms and uses. Often, a well-connected system of multi-use paths is not utilized solely for recreational purposes, but offers pedestrians and bicyclists the option of using the facilities as commuter corridors. The Town of Morrisville has taken a proactive approach to the planning of multi-use paths through incorporation into the Parks and Recreation Master Plan to encourage non-motorized transportation throughout the Town and to the systems of adjoining municipalities. Multi-use paths provide a myriad of benefits to the Town: alternative transportation, health promotion, economic development, recreational opportunities, land and habitat conservation, and improved air and water quality. The Town of Morrisville Comprehensive Transportation Plan Update includes two variations of multi-use paths that will be designed to provide off-road trails that provide access to parks, neighborhoods, and commercial areas. For this plan, multi-use paths are classified as either a greenway or sidepath and are described below. GREENWAY Greenways are trails that are found in both urban and rural settings that are typically set aside for recreational use or environmental protection. These facilities are comfortable for both bicyclists and pedestrians to travel on. General Considerations · Greenways should provide a high level of comfort for both bicyclists and pedestrians. · Greenways can be used for commuting purposes of non-motorists if alignments are strategically placed in a community. SIDEPATHS Sidepaths are a type of multi-use facility that is physically separated from motorized vehicular traffic, but still within the roadway right-of-way. Sidepaths provide an extra level of comfort and safety to pedestrians and cyclists from roadways with higher travel speeds and vehicular volumes. General Considerations · Careful consideration in design should be given to the degree of separation and driveway crossings. · The inclusion of sidepaths includes a wide roadside environment to provide the appropriate separation and pathway width. NEIGHBORHOOD CONNECTORS Neighborhood connectors are similar in design and function to greenways or sidewalks, but provide connections to the primary trail system via short spurs. Neighborhood connectors may vary in width, and may take the form of a short greenway or sidewalk section. General Considerations · Neighborhood connectors should follow ADA accessibility guidelines.

FACILITY TYPES

Greenway

Sidepath

Source: FHWA Small Town and Rural Design Guide, Facilities for Walking and Biking

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September 25, 2017 Draft