Fairfax County

Implementation Plan

For The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail In Fairfax County

Prepared for the Fairfax County Department of Planning and Zoning, and the Department of Public Works and Environmental Assessment by the Northern Virginia Regional Commission September 2002 Cover Photograph Credits (clockwise from top right): Virginia Tourism Corporation, Donald Briggs and Jennifer Burke Acknowledgments i

The Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC) wishes to acknowledge the following individuals for their contributions to this project: Don Briggs, Superintendent of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail for the National Park Service; David Marshall and Sheng Leu with the Fairfax County Office of Planning and Zoning; Jenny Pate with the Fairfax County Park Authority; and the members of the Fairfax County Non-Motorized Transportation Committee.

This report is an NVRC staff product prepared for Fairfax County, supported in part by funds provided through a cooperative agreement with the National Capital Region, National Park Service. Any assess- ments, conclusions, or recommendations contained in this report represent the results of the NVRC staff's technical investigation, and do not represent policy positions of the Northern Virginia Regional Commis- sion unless so stated in an adopted resolution of said Commission. The views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Fairfax County, the National Park Service or any of its subagencies.

Funding for this report was provided by: The National Park Service Challenge Cost Share Program

Report prepared by: Douglas A. Pickford Director Economic & Heritage Resources Northern Virginia Regional Commission

with assistance from Jennifer Burke

THE NORTHERN VIRGINIA REGIONAL COMMISSION 7535 Little River Turnpike, Suite 100 Annandale, Virginia 22003 703.642.0700 www.novaregion.org THE NORTHERN VIRGINIA ii REGIONAL COMMISSION as of August 9, 2002 Chairman Hon. Scott K. York Vice Chairman Hon. Kristen C. Umstattd Treasurer Hon. Barbara A. Favola Executive Director G. Mark Gibb

Commissioners

County of Alrington County Of Prince William City of Manassas Park Hon. Albert C. Eisenberg Hon. Hilda M. Barg Jesse Ludvigsen Hon. Barbara A. Favola Edgar Bruce Holley Hon. William R. Wren Hon. Jay N. Fisette Hon. John D. Jenkins Hon. Charles Monroe Don White Town of Dumfries Hon. Edgar S. Wilbourn, III Hon. Melvin Bray County of Fairfax Hon. Sharon Bulova City of Alexandria Town of Herndon Hon. James C. Chesley Hon. William C. Cleveland Hon. Michael L. O'Reilly Hon. Gerald E. Connolly Hon. Redella S. Pepper Anna F. Dixon Robert Rapanut Town of Leesburg Brenda Z. Greene Hon. Kristen C. Umstattd Hon. Penelope A. Gross City of Fairfax Hon. Katherine K. Hanley Hon. Joan Cross Town of Purcellville John F. Herrity David Kirkpatrick, Jr Hon. William T. Druhan, Jr. Hon. Catherine M. Hudgins Hon. Elaine N. McConnell City of Falls Church Town of Vienna Hon. Stuart Mendelsohn Lyman Krekel Hon. Albert J. Boudreau Sally B. Ormsby Alice Keane Putman City of Manassas Lilla D. Richards Robert C. Goessman Hon. Harry J. Parrish, II County of Loudoun Charles J. Billand Hon. Mark R. Herring The Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC) is an independent public agency char- Hon. Scott K. York tered in 1969 to plan for the physical, social and economic development of the region. The Com- mission serves in an advisory capacity to local, state and federal governments and as an advocate for Northern Virginia and its 1.8 million residents. The Commission's policies and programs are established by a 42 member Board of Commissioners comprised of elected officials and private citizens appointed by the governing bodies of the Counties of Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William; the Cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, Manassas Park, and the Towns of Dumfries, Herndon, Leesburg, Purcellville and Vienna. Table of Contents iii

I. INTRODUCTION ...... 1 How to Use This Report ...... 1 II. POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL (PHNST) ...... 2 The Trail At A Glance ...... 2 PHNST Generalized Alignment Corridor Map ...... 3 III. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 4 Trail Characteristics of the PHNST in Fairfax County ...... 4 Action Items ...... 5 IV. THE PHNST IN FAIRFAX COUNTY Segment 1 - Prince William County Line to Pohick Creek at Ft. Belvoir...... 6 Recommended Alignment ...... 6 Opportunities and Issues...... 6 Next Steps ...... 6 Aerial Photograph of Corridor...... 7 Cost Estimate ...... 8 Map 1 ...... 9 Segment 2 - Pohick Creek at Ft. Belvoir to Grist Mill Park...... 10 Recommended Alignment ...... 10 Opportunities and Issues...... 10 Next Steps ...... 11 Aerial Photograph of Corridor...... 11 Cost Estimate ...... 12 Map 2 ...... 13 iv Table of Contents

Segment 3 - Grist Mill Park to the City of Alexandria Line...... 14 Existing Alignment ...... 14 Next Steps ...... 14 Aerial Photograph of Corridor...... 15 Cost Estimate ...... 16 Map 3 ...... 17 Segment 4 - Arlington County Line to I-495/Capital Beltway...... 18 Existing/Alternative Alignments ...... 18 Opportunities and Issues...... 18 Next Steps ...... 19 Aerial Photograph of Corridor...... 19 Cost Estimate ...... 20 Map 4 ...... 21 Segment 5 - I-495/Capital Beltway to Great Falls National Park ...... 22 Recommended/Alternative Alignments...... 22 Opportunities and Issues...... 22 Next Steps ...... 23 Aerial Photograph of Corridor...... 23 Cost Estimate ...... 24 Map 5 ...... 25 Segment 6 - Great Falls National Park to Loudoun County Line ...... 26 Recommended Alignment ...... 26 Opportunities and Issues...... 26 Next Steps ...... 26 Aerial Photograph of Corridor...... 27 Cost Estimate ...... 28 Map 6 ...... 29 Table of Contents v

TABLES Table 1 - Estimated Trail Construction Costs ...... A-1 APPENDICES A. Trail Construction Cost Estimate Methodology B. Sources of Funding C. Listing of PHNST Stakeholders D. Draft Guidelines for Requesting Designation of a Trail as a Segment of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail INTRODUCTION change from day to day, as will cost estimates for construction (see Appendix A for Cost Estimate Methodology) and the viability of rout- With passage of the National Trails System Act of ing a trail within certain areas in the County. Anyone interested in a I. 1968, Congress authorized a national system of trails particular section of the trail should consult one or more of the follow- based on multiple partnerships and substantial roles ing agencies or organizations: the Fairfax County Department of Plan- for citizens organizations. Subsequently, the Depart- ning and Zoning; Fairfax County Department of Public Works and ment of Interior (DOI) and the Department of Agriculture have been Environmental Assessment; the Northern Virginia Regional Park Au- authorized and funded to study the feasibility of establishing additional thority; the Fairfax County Park Authority; or the National Park Ser- national scenic trails. In 1974, DOI completed a feasibility study that vice (contact information is listed in Appendix D). All of these agen- led to Congressional enactment of Public Law 98-11 in March, 1983, cies have some jurisdiction and oversight of the PHNST corridor in and establishment of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Fairfax County. (PHNST). The original concept proposed to establish 704 miles of connecting trails through Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Wash- This report has divides the PHNST corridor in Fairfax County into six ington D.C. The Act establishing the Potomac Heritage National Sce- sections. Each section begins with a chart that provides a summary of nic Trail states that no lands outside the exterior boundaries of any the trail corridor, providing information on trail length; status of plan- federally administered area may be acquired by the federal govern- ning; trail surface type; major water bodies that are crossed; where to ment for the Trail, making local initiatives extremely vital to complet- find the trail section on U.S. Geological Survey maps (7.5 minute quad- ing the Trail. To date, approximately 300 miles of the Potomac Heri- rangles); and a list of the major parks and attractions that are linked by tage National Scenic Trail have been designated. the trail. Each section also provides a written description of the recommended alignment, as well as any alternative alignments followed In the Summer of 2001 the National Park Service entered into a coop- by a brief discussion of the opportunities and issues that exist within erative agreement with the Northern Virginia Regional Commission the corridor. The chapter concludes with a summary of immediate (NVRC) to identify practical opportunities for development of the next steps to construct the PHNST in Fairfax County. PHNST in Prince William and Fairfax Counties. NVRC staff, with considerable assistance and guidance from local government staff, de- Each section also includes an aerial photograph of the trail corridor, a veloped the recommendations contained within this report. The rec- detailed map and a spreadsheet that summarizes the specific costs, sta- ommended alignment and potential alternative alignments for the tus and elements that need to be constructed before the trail is consid- PHNST are based on local government plans, studies and field work ered completed. Each trail element has an index number that can be conducted by NVRC. cross referenced to the adjoining map. The cost estimates do not take into account any funds that may be needed for land acquisitions or the HOW TO USE THIS REPORT purchase of easements. The information contained within this report represents a snapshot of the conditions and status of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail (PHNST) in Fairfax County. Circumstances along the corridor will

PAGE 1 NORTHERN VIRGINIA II. THE POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL SECTION The Trail at a Glance

TRAIL CHARACTERISTICS PROMINENT HERITAGE, AND CULTURAL LINKAGES: Potomac Overlook, Fort C.F. Smith, TRAIL CORRIDOR: Stafford/Prince William County Boundary to Harpers Theodore Roosevelt Island, Arlington Ferry, West Virginia Cemetery, Arlington House, Numerous

LENGTH: 116 Miles (76.4 Planned, 39.6 Existing) Sites in Old Town Alexandria, Jones Point, Dyke Marsh, River Farm, Fort Hunt, Mt. Arlington - 8.94 (Existing) Vernon, Woodlawn Alexandria - 4.38 Miles (Existing) Fairfax - 41.69 Miles (25.27 Existing, 16.42 Planned) Loudoun - 45.56 Miles (.78 Existing, 44.77 Planned) COUNTY BY COUNTY SUMMARY Prince William - 15.51 Miles (.28 Existing, 15.23 Planned) Estimated Avg. Cost City of Alexandria Mileage Percent Cost1 Per Mile TRAIL SURFACE TYPES: Paved Asphalt - 48 Estimated Miles Trail Completed 4.38 100%$ - Trail Planned 0 0%$ - $ - Total 4.38 100%$ - $ - Stone Dust - 27 Estimated Miles Arlington County Trail Completed 8.94 100%$ - Natural - 41 Estimated Miles Trail Plannned 0 0%$ - $ - Total 8.94 100%$ - $ - Fairfax County PUBLIC PARK LINKAGES: G.W. Memorial Parkway, Potomac Overlook, Oronoco Trail Completed 25.27 61%$ - Trail Plannned 16.42 39%$ 5,751,439 $ 350,369 Bay, Founders, Torpedo Factory, Waterfront, Potomac Total 41.69 100% $ 5,751,439 Loudoun County View, Jones Point, Fort Hunt, Washington Mill, Grist Trail Completed 0.78 2%$ - Trail Plannned 44.77 98%$ 7,699,388 $ 171,959 Mill, Scotts Run Nature Preserve, Great Falls NP, Total 45.56 100% $ 7,699,388 Prince William County* Riverbend Trail Completed 0.49 2%$ - Trail Plannned 20.68 98%$ 6,880,333 $ 332,727 PRIMARY TRAIL LINKAGES: Chain Bridge, Custis Lee, Key Bridge, Theodore Total 21.17 100% $ 6,880,333 Roosevelt Bridge, Memorial Bridge, 14th Street Northern Virginia Corridor Trail Completed 39.86 33%$ - Bridge, Four Mile Run, Eisenhower Avenue/Cameron Trail Plannned 81.87 67%$ 20,331,160 $ 248,339 Total 121.73 100% $ 20,331,160 Run 1Does not include costs associated with land acquisition or easement purchases.

PAGE 2 Harpers Ferry, W.Va.

THE The Potomac Heritage POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL National Scenic Trail Corridor Potomac Heritage National GENERALIZED TRAIL CORRIDOR Scenic Trail Corridor In Northern Virginia

Potential Whites Ferry to Leesburg Connection

Leesburg

Loudoun County

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Alternative Bike Corridor (W&OD, Lee Custis, 4 Mile Run)

Arlington

Alexandria Fairfax County

Prince William County

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Corridor

PAGE 3 FAIRFAX III. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS COUNTY The PHNST in Fairfax County

PUBLIC PARK LINKAGES: Occoquan Regional Park, Mason Neck State Park, TRAIL CHARACTERISTICS Pohick Regional Park, G.W. Memorial Parkway,

TRAIL CORRIDOR: Prince William County Line to Loudoun County Line Fort Hunt, George Washington Grist Mill State Park, Grist Mill Park, Scotts Run Nature Preserve, LENGTH: Fairfax - 41.69 Miles (25.27 Existing, 16.42 Planned) Great Falls National Historic Park, Riverbend PRIMARY TRAIL LINKAGES: Chain Bridge, Custis Lee, Key Bridge, Theodore Alternative Routes - 21.98 Miles Roosevelt Bridge, Memorial Bridge, 14th Street COST ESTIMATE Bridge, Four Mile Run, Eisenhower Avenue/ FOR COMPLETION: $5,751,439 (approx. $350,359 per mile) Cameron Run, Fairfax Cross County Mt. Vernon Extension - $1,422,288 PROMINENT HERITAGE, AND CULTURAL LINKAGES: Woodlawn, Colchester Church, Mt. Vernon, NO. OF PRIVATE PROPERTIES Washington's Grist Mill, George Washington's IMPACTED: TBD Patowmack Canal NO. EXISTING EASEMENTS: TBD

SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS Park and the Loudoun County line presents an immediate oppor- tunity to connect a number of public parks and open spaces. With With over 60% of the trail complete and a greater part of support from the Great Falls Trailblazers, a local citizens' group, the northern corridor secured with easements or within the pub- and the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (with over 2,000 mem- lic domain, the establishment of the Potomac Heritage National ber), this section of trail corridor could serve as an example for Scenic Trail (PHNST) in Fairfax County is close to becoming a volunteer development and maintenance of trail segments in other reality. Resolving the issues associated with routing the trail parts of the County. These organizations have secured easements through Fort Belvoir and linking it to the newly acquired Lorton and are helping to build and maintain trail segments. Both have property remain problematic, but not insurmountable. worked closely with Fairfax County and the Northern Virginia As efforts are made to establish the PHNST in the south- Regional Park Authority (NVRPA) to see that a regional trail ern part of the County, the corridor between Great Falls National network becomes a reality.

PAGE 4 The cost estimate of $5.75 million includes all facilities INTERMEDIATE ACTIONS necessary to provide a network of trails serving the County's 1 1. Continue to work with Fort Belvoir to determine the most million residents. Additionally, construction is much less expen- suitable route through/around the military installation. sive using the region's vast reservoir of volunteers and trial-build- 2. Incorporate a PHNST alignment in the site/management ing expertise. Along with donated materials, natural surface trails plan being developed for the Lorton property. require less engineering, labor and materials. A primary option 3. Continue to monitor construction of the Wilson Bridge to for the southern corridor features a paved facility for different ensure adequate pedestrian access through, over and near types of users, providing an important link in the region's non- the new bridge facility. motorized transportation system as well as the trail network; in this scenario, costs are substantially higher than in the northern corridor. FUTURE ACTIONS The numerous steps that need to be undertaken to see that 1. Continue to examine opportunities to link the PHNST to the PHNST is completed in Fairfax County have been summa- existing and future trail networks within the County. rized below, and ranked by priority from those items that need 2. Continue to work with the National Park Service to find a immediate attention to the issues or concerns that can be dealt suitable alignment that will extend the Mt. Vernon trail with in the future. The list of items were determined by the con- from Roosevelt Island to I-495. sensus agreement between County and NVRPA staff and mem- 3. Identify funding for a bridge over I-95 and determine a bers of the County's Non-motorized Transportation Committee. suitable alignment to allow the PHNST to follow the These priority actions include: Pohick stream valley north to the Lorton property.

IMMEDIATE ACTIONS 1. Complete construction and signage of the segment of trail between Riverbend Park and the Loudoun County boundary. 2. Initiate the Scenic Byway grant to study the feasibility of establishing trail adjacent to Georgetown Pike between I- 495 and Great Falls National Park. 3. Continue to work with NVRC to identify sources of funding for implementation of the PHNST in Fairfax County. 4. Complete construction of Clarke's Crossing bridge work.

PAGE 5 PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY LINE TO IV. THE PHNST Segment POHICK CREEK AT FORT BELVOIR IN FAIRFAX Length: Recommended Alignment - 6.19 miles COUNTY 1 Number of Private Properties - TBD Properties Under Easement - TBD County moving towards fruition, a good opportu- Lorton Alternative - 4.94 miles from Occoquan Regional Park nity exists to route the PHNST through what is Number of Private Properties - TBD planned to be a very large park area. The user ex- Properties Under Easement - TBD perience would be greatly enhanced if this route Status: All Alignments Planned were eventually developed. The difficulty of this Trail Type: 10' asphalt multi-use trail option arises in routing the trail back over (or un- USGS 7.5 Map: Fort Belvoir, Occoquan der) Interstate 95. The initial concept was to fol- Water Bodies: Massey Creek, Occoquan River low the Pohick Stream valley to Old Colchester Linkages: Planned Lorton trail system, Gunston Road Trail to Pohick Regional Park Road and into Fort Belvoir. However upon further and Mason Neck State Park, Pedestrian and Equestrian Trails along investigation it was found that the culvert under I- Occoquan River/Bull Run, Occoquan Regional Park 95 is quite narrow and would need substantial up- grading and re-configuration to accommodate a trail RECOMMENDED ALIGNMENT entire segment would be either on-road or on a trail facility. The most practical option is now to follow that would run parallel to existing roadways. the alignment as identified in the Countywide Trail The Proposed Countywide Trails Plan has identi- plan. This route designates Pohick Road as the point fied a potential route for the PHNST from the Prince to cross over I-95 where it would then connect to William County line to Fort Belvoir. This proposed OPPORTUNITIES AND ISSUES Old Colchester Road. An alternative alignment route begins at the existing (but currently closed) New Route 123 Bride Crossing might include a connection to the Cross County Trail pedestrian bridge that crosses the Occoquan River The Prince William County Park Authority has iden- within the Accotink stream valley north of Lorton. near the northern boundary of the Town of tified two alternatives for crossing the Occoquan Occoquan. The trail would then use an existing River into Fairfax County. The first and most at- Gunston Cove Road and Old Colchester Road public access road, travelling north to Route 123. tractive is the pedestrian bridge in the Town of Routing The trail would continue north along the west side Occoquan. However, a second alternative might Building a trail along Gunston Cove Road and Old of Route 123 to the intersection of Lorton Road (ap- be considered if the pedestrian bridge remains Colchester Road could prove to be quite problem- proximately 1.19 miles). Here the trail would turn closed. This route is along the proposed pedestrian atic due to the number of adjacent private property east, crossing Route 123 and following Lorton Road access that will be incorporated into the new Route owners. From Gunston Road to Pohick Creek (-- to the intersection of Gunston Cove Road (approx. 123 bridge after the widening project is completed miles) the trail would crossover -- properties if lo- 2.15 miles). The trail would turn south following in Fairfax. Funding for this project has been put on cated on the west side and -- to the east. Gunston Cove Road to Route 1 (approx. 1.16 miles). hold due to state funding issues. Both options pro- Crossing Route 1 Gunston Cove Road changes into vide essentially the same connection to the planned Gunston Road, continuing east to Old Colchester NEXT STEPS route in Fairfax County. Road (approx. .71 mile). Turning north again the ¥ Continue monitoring the progress of widening trail would follow Old Colchester Road to Fort Lorton Property - Alternative Alignment Route 123 to ensure the design and final con- Belvoir at Pohick Creek (approx. .97 mile). This With the transfer of the Lorton property to Fairfax struction of the pedestrian facilities are compat- ible with planned PHNST alignments.

PAGE 6 ¥Monitor future improvements to Lorton, Gunston Cove and Old Colchester Roads to ensure that the PHNST is accommodated in design improvements.

¥ Continue monitoring developments in the transfer and future use of the Lorton complex to ensure that a viable route for the PHNST can be accommodated through the complex.

Proposed PHNST Alignment & Alternatives From Prince William County Line to Pohick Creek at Fort Belvoir

Pohic

R Lorton Rd. o

u k

te 123

Cr e ek Recommended Fort Alignment Belvoir

. Rd Alternative

i-95 Gunston Rd. ter Lorton s e Alignment h c l

Co d l O

Route 1

Town of Occoquan

PAGE 7 POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL Fairfax County Implementation Plan Map 1

COST MILEPOSTS1 TRAIL SEGMENTS FEET (est.) ABCDE Map ref. # COMMENTS / DESCRIPTION

Map 1 Prince William County Line to Pohick Creek at Ft. Belvoir

Recommended Alignment Trail Construction Asphalt 10' wide multi-use trail. Corridor begins at pedestrian bridge from Town of Occoquan then traverses the Lorton site. Proffered Prince William County Line to Pohick Creek at Ft. Belvoir 32,630 $ 1,403,934 1 improvements are a real possibility when site is developed in the future. Large Bridge over Pohick Creek 100 $ 75,000 2 Subtotal 32,730 $ 1,478,934

Trail Amenities Placed at major access point(s). Fairfax County side of the Occoquan River, Route 123 crossing, within Lorton complex, and at Old Colchester Large Sign 4800$ Road at Pohick Creek. Small Trail Sign 16$ 1,637 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 61,5$ 50 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 3,986

Total Cost Recommended Alignment $ 1,482,920

Alternative Alignment Trail Construction Asphalt 10' wide multi-use trail. Corridor begins at pedestrian bridge from Town of Occoquan then traverses the Lorton site. Proffered Route 123 to I-95 at Eastern Boundary of Lorton Property 16,168 $ 715,822 3 improvements are a real possibility when site is developed in the future. Bridge Crossing of Giles Mill Branch 100 $ 75,000 4 Lorton Road Crossing Improvments TBD 5 I-95 Bridge or Tunnel Improvements TBD 6 I-95 to Pohick Creek at Fort Belvroir 9,821 $ 450,518 7 Subtotal 26,089 $ 1,241,340

Alternative 2 Amenities Placed at major access point(s). Fairfax County side of the Occoquan River near Route 1 bridge, Gunston Road, and at Old Colchester Road at Large Sign 3600$ Pohick Creek. Small Trail Sign 13$ 1,304 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 51,2$ 35 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 3,140

Total Cost Alternative 2 $ 1,244,480

1 Mileposts: Milepost Status Codes: A: Segment in a local comprehensive plan X = completed (including determination of a final alignment) U = underway B: Preliminary engineering completed $ = funded (including environmental, historic and cultural resource reviews) O = on hold pending administrative/regulatory action C: Property acquisition completed (including appraisal & negotiations) D: Final design (including surveying, structural design & inspections) E: Construction - Indicates that trail segment is complete

PAGE 8 MAP 1 Implementation Plan For The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail In Fairfax County (Prince William County Line to Fort Belvoir) Recommended PHNST Route (6) Alternative PHNST Routes (3) I-95 Existing Connecting Trails Alternative PHNST Crossing Other Open Space Alignment Federal Land Public Parks (1) Map Reference #

(5) (4) Lorton Rd. Giles Br. Crossing (7) (1) Pohick Cr. Recommended PHNST Alignment Alignment (2) Route 123 Pohick Cr. Lorton Road P ohick C Bridge reek Fort Belvoir Lorton Gunston Cove Road

Road Fairfax County r Gunston se Prince William Co e Road h lc o

Interstate 95

ld C O

unty Pohick Regional Park Occoquan

Occoquan Regional Park

PAGE 9 POHICK CREEK AT FORT BELVOIR TO IV. THE PHNST Segment GRIST MILL PARK IN FAIRFAX Length: Recommended Alignment - 5.68 miles COUNTY 2 Number of Private Properties - TBD Properties Under Easement - TBD way, Route 235 (approx. 4.3 miles). Turning due Alternative Alignment - 6.60 miles east the trail would then follow the Mt. Vernon High- Number of Private Properties - TBD way to the Walker Gate where it would then follow Properties Under Easement - TBD the recommended alignment (approx. .41 of a mile). Status: All Alignments Planned Trail Type: 10' asphalt multi-use trail USGS 7.5 Map: Fort Belvoir, Mount Vernon OPPORTUNITIES AND ISSUES Water Bodies: Pohick Creek, Accotink Creek, Dogue Creek Prior to September 11, 2001 this section of trail rep- Linkages: Planned Pohick Stream Valley Trail, Potential Rail-to-trail conversion, resented one of the better opportunities for quick Planned Accotink Stream Valley Trail completion. Funding was dedicated and the entire trail corridor was planned, engineered and within ing northeast, the trail roughly parallels Poe Road The Proposed Fairfax Countywide Trails Plan iden- the public domain. Since September, the status is to Pohick Road. The alignment then moves slightly tifies a PHNST alignment planned and designed in very uncertain (see Next Steps). 1997 by staff of the Installation Support, U.S. Army north and would run adjacent to Route 1 past Gunston Road and Pence Gate on Belvoir Road. Garrison Fort Belvoir (Fort Belvoir). Unfortunately, Alternative Route Development Issues a by-product of the events that occurred on Sep- After crossing through a forested area, the trail Between Pohick Creek and the east of Walker Gate, tember 11, 2001 has been a dramatic increase in would pick up the Dogue Creek stream valley and Ft. Belvoir, the best location for the PHNST is within security at all military installations. Fort Belvoir is exit Fort Belvoir at Walker Gate. Staying on the Fort Belvoir. In the vicinity of the intersection be- no exception, and original plans to route the PHNST southern shoulder, the PHNST would follow the tween Route 1 and Mt. Vernon Highway, a loop trail through main areas of the installation are being re- Mount Vernon Memorial Highway east to the or other connection to Woodlawn Plantation, a prop- visited. Hopefully the original route can be main- boundary of Fort Belvoir. At Grist Mill Road, the erty owned and managed by the National Trust for tained. However, if an alternative must be identi- trail would cross Mount Vernon Memorial High- Historic Preservation, could also become a segment fied it is anticipated that Fort Belvoir officials will way and continues east in the right-of-way between of the PHNST, adding to the educational opportuni- be receptive to providing a significant easement the highway and the existing access road. Between ties associate with the trail. along the perimeter of the installation along Old Patton Boulevard and Grist Mill Park, the PHNST Colchester Road, Route 1 and Mt. Vernon High- would cross approximately 800 feet of private prop- The section of trail from Pohick Creek to the vicin- way. This study will summarizes both alignments. erty before crossing Ferry Landing Road and onto County owned property at Grist Mill Park. ity of the Accotink Creek would be routed through an undeveloped and wooded landscape. Significant RECOMMENDED ALIGNMENT wetlands are encountered in the vicinity of Accotink ALTERNATIVE ALIGNMENT As mentioned previously, the recommended align- Creek and Route 1, which may require substantial ment is consistent with trail plans developed by Fort From Pohick Creek, the trail would ideally continue elevated trail grading or wood decking. Both op- Belvoir and Fairfax County. From Pohick Creek north running parallel to Old Colchester Road to tions are expensive. From Accotink Creek the cor- the trail would enter the Fort Belvoir installation the intersection of Route 1 (approx. .88 of a mile). ridor could follow an existing utility right-of-way and run north through the wooded area that is adja- At Route 1, a grade-separated trail could parallel that parallels Route 1 to Pence gate. From Pence cent to an existing access road (Poe Road). Turn- the highway to the intersection of Mt. Vernon High- Gate to Mt. Vernon Highway the trail would have

PAGE 10 to be integrated into existing landscapes and devel- (Cross County Trail) with the Fairfax County opments including a golf course and the Woodlawn ¥ Initiate negotiations to find a resolution to the Parkway trail to provide linkages to Fort Belvoir Plantation equestrian area. Substantial improve- alignment of the PHNST either through or around at Telegraph Road, as well as with the planned ments or a new bridge would be required to cross Fort Belvoir. At issue is whether the recom- Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail. Con- Dogue Creek on Mt. Vernon Highway. mended or the alternative routes of the PHNST tinue examining development of a safe bicycle/ NEXT STEPS through Fort Belvoir can be realistically pedestrian crossing of Route 1. achieved. If not, then a new route needs to be ¥ In 2000 Congressman Moran secured $500,000 identified in this area. ¥ Examine the feasibility of obtaining a voluntary in funding for the development of Phase I of the easement to route the PHNST through property PHNST within Fort Belvoir. As of publication ¥ Complete an analysis of whether VDOT right- owned by the Saint James Episcopal Church in of this document, no construction has be initi- of-way between Fort Belvoir and Fairfax order to align the PHNST on the north side of ated within the installation. The Potomac Trail County's Grist Mill Park is sufficient to accom- the Mount Vernon Memorial Highway between Council and interested citizen groups should modate the PHNST. Patton Boulevard and Old Mill Road. monitor the status of this project to ensure that the resources are allocated to the construction of ¥ Continue to advocate implementation of current the PHNST and not used for other purposes. plans to link the Accotink Stream Valley Trail

Proposed PHNST Alignment & Alternatives From Pohick Creek at Ft. Belvoir to Grist Mill Park

Recommended Alignment

Alternative Alignment

PAGE 11 POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL Fairfax County Implementation Plan Map 2

COST MILEPOSTS1 TRAIL SEGMENTS FEET (est.) ABCDE Map ref. # COMMENTS / DESCRIPTION

Map 2 Pohick Creek at Ft. Belvoir to Grist Mill Park

Recommended Alignment Asphalt 10' wide multi-use trail. Initial corridor will require considerable grading, but becomes much more level once leaving the immediate Pohick Pohick Creek to Western Bndry of Accotink Bay Wildlife Refuge 10,008 $ 346,270 8 Creek stream area. 10' wide wood deck. Almost entire corridor consists of wetlands and Western Bndry of Accotink Bay Wildlife Refuge to Eastern Bndry 4,652 $ 1,250,084 9 marsh areas necessiating raised, wood deck structure. Large Bridge over Accotink Creek 100 $ 75,000 10 Large bridge structure required to cross over Accotink Creek. Asphalt 10' wide multi-use trail. Steep terrain approaching Dogue Creek Eastern Bndry of Accotink Bay Wildlife Refuge to Dogue Creek 10,284 $ 437,871 11 will require considerable grading and site improvements. Large Bridge over Dogue Creek 100 $ 75,000 12 Large bridge structure required to cross over Accotink Creek. Dogue Creek to Grist Mill Park 4,871 $ 211,608 13 Road Crossing Improvements at Mt. Vernon Highway TBD 14 Subtotal 30,015 $ 2,395,833

Recommended Alignment Amenities Placed at major access point(s). Fairfax County Parkway, Beulah Rd. Large Sign 61,$ 200 gate, Gunston Rd., Main Gate, Walker Gate, and Grist Mill Park. Small Trail Sign 15$ 1,501 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 61,$ 421 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 4,122

Total Cost $ 2,399,955

Alternative Alignment Asphalt 10' wide multi-use trail. Initial corridor will require considerable grading, but becomes much more level once leaving the immediate Pohick Pohick Creek to Walker Gate (along the perimeter of Fort Belvoir) 29,767 $ 1,014,125 A1 Creek stream area. Large Bridge over Accotink Creek 100 $ 75,000 A2 Large bridge structure required to cross over Accotink Creek. Large Bridge over Dogue Creek 100 $ 75,000 A3 Large bridge structure required to cross over Dogue Creek. The alternative alignment picks up the recommended alignment at this Walker Gate to Grist Mill Park 4,871 $ 211,608 13 point. Road Crossing Improvements at Mt. Vernon Highway TBD 14 Subtotal 34,838 $ 1,375,732

Alternative Alignment Amenities Placed at major access point(s). Fairfax County Parkway, Beulah Rd. Large Sign 61,$ 200 gate, Gunston Rd., Main Gate, Walker Gate, and Grist Mill Park. Small Trail Sign 17$ 1,742 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 71,$ 650 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 4,591

Total Alternative Alignment Cost $ 1,380,324

PAGE 12 Fairfax County Acco Fort Cree tink Belvoir k Parkway Woodlawn G.W. Grist Mill State Park (A3) Country Club Pence Gate (14) Alternative PHNST (A2) Walker Gate

Alignment M Grist Mill t. Ve (A1) rnon Park Highway Route 1 Golf Course (12) (13) Dogue Occoquan (9) Belvoir Road (10) (11) Creek

Old Colchestter Rd. (8) Pohick Creek Fort Belvoir

MAP 2 Implementation Plan For The Pohick Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Regional Park In Fairfax County (Pohick Creek at Fort Belvoir to Grist Mill Park)

Pohick Bay Recommended PHNST Route Alternative PHNST Routes Existing Connecting Trails

Federal Land Other Open Space Public Parks (1) Map Reference #

PAGE 13 GRIST MILL PARK TO THE CITY OF IV. THE PHNST Segment ALEXANDRIA LINE IN FAIRFAX COUNTY 3 Length: Recommended Alignment - 10.88 Miles Number of Private Properties - TBD Properties Under Easement - TBD Status: All alignments existing Trail Type: Varying widths of asphalt & some wood decking, multi-use trail USGS 7.5 Map: Mount Vernon, Alexandria Water Bodies: Little Hunting Creek, Potomac River, Hunting Creek Linkages: Grist Mill, Mt. Vernon, Riverside, River Farm, Collingwood, Dyke Marsh, NEXT STEPS Belle Haven ¥ Extend the 10' foot asphalt surfaced trail another 40 feet between Peachtree Landing Road and From Fairfax County's Grist Mill Park to the City fore again crossing to the north at the intersection the trail leading into Grist Mill Park. of Alexandria Boundary (Hunting Creek/Cameron of Old Mill Road. Between Old Mill Road and the Run), an existing trail alignment serves as the pre- parking lot west of the Mount Vernon Circle, the ¥Encourage VDOT to provide bicycle route strip- ferred route for the PHNST. The trail between Grist trail is aligned to the north of Mount Vernon Me- ing along the north shoulder of Mount Vernon Mill and Mt. Vernon is presently owned and main- morial Highway. At Mount Vernon, trail users must Memorial Highway between Peachtree Landing tained by Fairfax County. The Mount Vernon Trail, navigate the circle in front of the main entrance, Road and Southwood Drive. a recognized segment of the PHNST managed by and continue through the east parking lot to its north- George Washington Memorial Parkway, National ern terminus before picking up the trail again. Con- ¥ Upgrade the trail surface (approximately 200 Park Service, connects Mt. Vernon and the City of tinuing north, the grade-separated trail is located feet) in the proximity of the Washington Farm Alexandria, providing an important route for trans- on the eastern side of Mount Vernon Parkway. Be- Methodist Church located at Old Mill Road. The portation as well as recreation and education. Rec- tween Little Hunting Creek and Fort Hunt, the trail trail should be upgraded from a concrete pedes- ommendations for this trail corridor are limited to a runs close to the river shoreline. At Fort Hunt, the trian walkway (approx. 3' width) to a 10' asphalt number of improvements to existing trail conditions, vehicle access tunnel takes trail users to the west surface suitable for multi use purposes (Federal and potential new linkages to improve access to and side of the Mount Vernon Parkway. The trail con- funding for this project has been secured). from the trail. tinues north on the west side until crossing back to the river side of the parkway at Alexandria Road. ¥ Improve signage and lane striping in and around EXISTING ALIGNMENT For a short distance the alignment uses North Down the circle and main entrance to Mount Vernon. Road, before the trail becomes grade separated An alternative route might be considered to sepa- Beginning at Grist Mill Park, the trail runs east, again. Approximately one mile to the north, the rate bicyclists from the large crowds of pedestri- parallel to the Mount Vernon Memorial Highway. trail travels through Dyke Marsh and Belle Haven ans congregating in this area. Between Peachtree Landing and Southwood Drive, park, before reaching Cameron Run/Hunting Creek the trail is located on the paved shoulder of Mount and the City of Alexandria line. ¥ Continue to encourage the maintenance and im- Vernon Memorial Highway. The trail crosses the provements to the Mt. Vernon Trail, including highway at Southwood, and remains on the PHNST signage. southside of the highway for a short distance be-

PAGE 14 City of Alexandria

Belle Haven Proposed PHNST Alignment CC & Alternatives Grist Mill Park to City of Alexandria Line Dyke Marsh Existing PHNST Alignment

Recommended Alignment

Alternative The Potomac Heritage Alignment Huntley National Scenic Trail Meadows

Fort Belvoir

Lit

l Recommended e

Alignment u

t i n g C re e Ft. Hunt k Park Grist Mill M Park Mount t. V ern on Highway Vernon

PAGE 15 POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL Fairfax County Implementation Plan Map 3

COST MILEPOSTS1 TRAIL SEGMENTS FEET (est.) ABCDE Map ref. # COMMENTS / DESCRIPTION Map 3 Grist Mill Park to City of Alexandria Line

Trail Construction Asphalt 10' wide multi-use trail. Maintained by Farifax County from Grist Mill Park to Mt. Vernon. From Mt. Vernon to City of Alexandria Line trail is Grist Mill Park to City of Alexandria Line 54,971 $ 2,305,788 XXXXX 15 maintained by the NPS, G.W. Memorial Parkway. Decking through portions of Dyke Marsh 2,500 $ 675,500 XXXXX 16 10' wide wood deck completed through much of Dyke Marsh area. Subtotal 57,471 $ 2,981,288

Amenities Placed at major access point(s). Mt. Vernon, Ft. Hunt, and Belle Haven Large Sign 3600$ picnic area. Small Trail Sign 29$ 2,874 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 11$ 2,721 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 6,195

Total Cost $ 2,987,483

PAGE 16 C ity o f A MAP 3 lex an Implementation Plan For The dria Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Belle Haven In Fairfax County CC (Grist Mill Park to City of Alexandria Line) Existing PHNST Recommended PHNST Route (16) Alternative PHNST Routes Existing Connecting Trails Dyke Marsh Federal Land Other Open Space Public Parks (1) Map Reference # Potomac River

Huntley Meadows

(15) The Potomac Heritage Fort National Scenic Trail Belvoir

t i n g C re e Ft. Hunt k Park Grist Mill M Park Mount t. V ern on Highway Vernon

PAGE 17 ARLINGTON COUNTY LINE TO I-495/ IV. THE PHNST Segment IN FAIRFAX CAPITAL BELTWAY Length: Recommended Alignment (Hiking Trail) -4.85 miles COUNTY 4 Number of Private Properties - TBD Properties Under Easement - TBD Additional Alignment (Mt. Vernon Extension) - 6.06 miles Number of Private Properties - TBD Properties Under Easement - TBD Status: Existing and Planned (Bicycle Route) Trail Type: Natural Surface, Paved (Planned Bicycle Route, Mt. Vernon Extension) USGS Quadrangle: Washington West, Falls Church Water Bodies: Turkey Run, Dead Run Linkages: Fort Marcey, Turkey Run Recreation Area (G.W. Parkway), Langley Oaks Park, Claude Moore Colonial Farm

From the Arlington county line to the I-495/The ALTERNATIVE ALIGNMENT (POTENTIAL GWMP boundaries, providing opportunities for Capital Beltway, there is one existing route and one outstanding educational and recreational experi- possible route for the PHNST: The Potomac Heri- BICYCLING ROUTE) ences for residents of and visitors to the region. If tage Trail, a hiking only route within George Wash- constructed, the bicycling route would complement ington Memorial Parkway (GWMP) between Through the efforts of the Virginia Bicycling Fed- these experiences while providing anon-motorized Theodore Roosevelt Island and I-495/The Capital eration and the Washington Area Bicyclist Associa- transportation option parallel to the Parkway. Beltway, and a bicycling route, currently being stud- tion, the Congress provided funds for GWMP, Na- tional Park Service, to study the feasibility of ex- ied, between the same two points. NEXT STEPS: tending the Mount Vernon Trail north from its current terminus at Theodore Roosevelt Island. This EXISTING ALIGNMENT (HIKING ONLY) proposed route is included generally in the ¥ Potomac Heritage Trail (hiking only route): Countywide Trails Plan. In2002, a contractor to The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club has re- The Potomac Heritage Trail crosses the Fairfax- GWMP provided staff with a study indicating po- quested designation of this trail by the National Arlington border at Pimmit Run. Trail users must tential locations for a multi-use trail between Park Service as a segment of the PHNST. With use caution when crossing an entrance ramp at the Theodore Roosevelt Island and the American Le- adoption by Fairfax County of this implemen- Route 123 cloverleaf. Near the CIA/FHA entrance gion Bridge (I-495), both on and off property man- tation plan, such designation should proceed in ramp, the trail descends through the Turkey Run aged by NPS. Among other findings, the study in- tandem with designation of the route between Recreation Area and toward the Potomac River dicates the need for comprehensive resource inven- the northern terminus of the Potomac Heritage shoreline. At I-495, the trail crosses under the tories, engineering analyses and an evaluation of Trail and the Fairfax County-Loudoun County American Legion Bridge, connecting on the north community issues, especially potential impacts on border. side of the Bridge to Live Oak Drive. North residential areas adjacent to potential trail routes. ofPimmit Run, the trail crosses Turkey Run, Dead ¥ Potomac Heritage Trail? Scotts Run Nature Run and seven minor stream crossings. Potomac Opportunities and Issues Preserve: Fairfax County and the Virginia De- Appalachian Trail Club volunteers have maintained partment of Transportation should analyze the the Trail for years. The Potomac Heritage Trail lies completely within feasibility of constructing a grade-separated trail in the space betweenI-495 and Live Oak Drive,

PAGE 18 connecting to an existing parking area for Scotts Arlington and Fairfax County representatives should be recognized in continuing studies and Run Nature Preserve off Georgetown Pike. to help determine next steps in the process to public discussions. Such a trail would discourage use of the Live determine the feasibility of the trail develop- Oak Drive cul-de-sac, a residential area, as a ment. If the concept is determined to have merit, trailhead. the Parkway will initiate additional feasibility analyses and environmental and historical re- ¥ Mount Vernon Trail Extension (proposed bi- source compliance, including opportunities for cycle route): GWMP staff will consult with public participation. The concept of the PHNST

Live Oak Turkey Run Road

Scotts Run Nature Dead Run Preserve

y G wa .W. lt Langley Oaks Me Be mor al ial it Park P p ar kw /Ca a 5 y 9 4 I- FHWA Proposed PHNST Alignment Claude Moore G & Alternatives eorgetow Colonial Farm CIA n Pike Arlington Co. Line to I-495 Recommended Langley Fork Alignment Park Alternative Alignment (Mt. Vernon R ou Trail Extension te 1 23

Potomac Heritage Trail

Arlington County Line

PAGE 19 POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL Fairfax County Implementation Plan Map 4

COST MILEPOSTS1 TRAIL SEGMENTS FEET (est.) ABCDE Map ref. # COMMENTS / DESCRIPTION Map 4 Arlington County Line to I-495/Capital Beltway

Trail Construction Natural surface hiking trail. Trail is maintained by the Potomac Arlington County Line to I-495/Capital Beltway 25,607 $ 128,035 XXXXX 17 Appalachian Trail Club (PATC). Bridge or Culvert over Turkey Run 25 $ 17,500 XXXXX 18 Small bridge to cross Turkey Run. Bridge or Culvert over Dead Run 25 $ 17,500 XXXXX 19 Small bridge to cross Dead Run. Sub-total 25,657 $ 163,035

Amenities Large Sign 3600$ Placed at major access point(s). Route 123, Turkey Run, and I-495/Capita Small Trail Sign 13$ 1,283 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 51,$ 215 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 3,098

Total Cost $ 166,133

Additional Alignment - Mt. Vernon Trail Extension Trail Construction Asphalt 10' wide multi-use trail. Some areas will require significant grading and site improvements to keep slopes level for bicycle use adjacent to Arlington County Line to Dead Run 22,000 $ 959,600 U 20 G.W. Memorial Parkway. Asphalt 10' wide multi-use trail. Some sections of this trail may be crushed stone, particularly those within the Dead Run stream valley. Sections of this trail may also be on-road bike routes on low volume residential streets Dead Run to I-495/Georgetown Pike Overpass 10,028 $ 459,170 U 21 (Whann Avenue, Benjamin Street and Balls Hill Road). Sub-total 32,028 $ 1,418,770

Amenities Large Sign 2400$ Placed at major access point(s). Route 123, and Turkey Run. Small Trail Sign 16$ 1,601 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 61,$ 516 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 3,518

Total Cost Additional Alignment - Mt. Vernon Trail Extension $ 1,422,288

PAGE 20 (19) Live Oak Dead Run Road (18) Turkey Run

Scotts Run Nature Preserve Langley Oaks Park

twa l e

lB a FHWA t i p a C /

95 4 Claude Moore - I Colonial Farm CIA

(17) Langley Fork Potomac Heritage Park Trail

Route 123

MAP 4 Implementation Plan For The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail In Fairfax County (Arlington County Line to I-495/Capital Beltway) Recommended PHNST Route Alternative PHNST Routes Existing Connecting Trails

Federal Land Other Open Space Public Parks (1) Map Reference #

PAGE 21 I-495/CAPITAL BELTWAY TO GREAT FALLS IV. THE PHNST Segment IN FAIRFAX NATIONAL PARK COUNTY 5 Length: Recommended Alignment - 7.49 miles Number of Private Properties - 32 (north), 21 (south) Properties Under Easement - 0 Alternative Alignment - 10.44 miles Number of Private Properties - 83 (north of Old Dominion Drive) Properties Under Easement - 0 Status: Planned Trail Type: Crush stone and asphalt USGS Quadrangle: Falls Church Water Bodies: Scotts Run, Bullneck Run, Rocky Run, Difficult Run Linkages: Scotts Run Nature Preserve, Great Falls National Park, Difficult Run/Cross County Trail

This section of the proposed PHNST represents one Visitors Center area and continues north following the trail would follow the recommended route to of the more difficult alignments due to the densely the existing Potomac Heritage hiking trail that con- Riverbend Park (approx. 3.93 miles ). developed nature of the corridor. In the spring of nects to Fairfax County's Riverbend Park (approx. 2002, the Northern Virginia Regional Commission 3.4 miles). OPPORTUNITIES AND ISSUES will begin a feasibility study of routing the trail along Private Property Easements on the Recommended Georgetown Pike. The findings of the feasibility ALTERNATIVE ALIGNMENT and Alternative Routes - The recommended route study should supplement the recommendations pro- along Georgetown Pike will possibly transverse 32 vided in this Implementation Plan. The trail would follow the recommended route to Scotts Run and Georgetown Pike. From here the private lots between Scotts Run and Great Falls Na- trail would continue south along Scotts Run (a pro- tional Park if the trail is situated on the north side of RECOMMENDED ALIGNMENT posed stream valley trail in the Countywide Plan) the road. It would cross 21 lots if routed on the The Proposed Countywide Trails Plan routes the to the vicinity of the I-495/Old Dominion Drive south side of Georgetown Pike. The feasibility study PHNST up Live Oak Road (see comments in previ- overpass. Here the trail would turn northwest and will attempt (without actually conducting property ous section concerning this segment of trail) to follow Old Dominion Drive to Difficult Run where surveys) to determine the extent and suitability of Scotts Run Nature Preserve. The trail would then it would turn north and follow the existing stream using existing VDOT right-of-way for the trail route. utilize existing trails within Scotts Run to a point valley trail. A significant physical barrier in this If the right-of-way is insufficient for trail purposes, near the existing parking lot at Scotts Run where area are steep slopes that exist along Difficult Run a significant number of private property easements the trail would turn west and continues along the near Old Dominion Drive. If this alignment were will have to be negotiated for completion of this north side of Georgetown Pike to the eastern bound- considered, a significant amount of site work would section of trail. ary of Great Falls National Park (approx. 4.09 be necessary to complete this connection. The trail miles). At Great Falls National Park the trail would would continue east along the Difficult Run Trail As with the recommended route, a significant num- turn north and connect to the existing trail network before entering into Great Falls National Park (to- ber of properties (72 in total on the north side of within the park. The trail then passes through the tal approx. length is 6.36 miles). From this point Old Dominion Drive and another 11 or more along

PAGE 22 Scotts Run) that front along Old Dominion Drive years to complete. If the feasibility study concludes Georgetown Pike between Scotts Run Nature would require easements for trail construction. This that the recommended route is not possible, then a Preserve and Great Falls National Park should is a significant undertaking and could take many similar study should be conducted on the alternate be completed before a final alignment is deter- route. mined in this corridor. NEXT STEPS ¥Trailhead at Live Oak Drive - To provide a better Riverbend Park trailhead for the Potomac Heritage Trail terminus at Live Oak Drive, a better connection and (23) signage should be established between the exist- Existing Potomac ing trail and Scotts Run Nature Preserve. This Heritage Trail Geo improvement would encourage trail users to rg in Great Falls NHP utilize the existing parking lots at Scotts Run et ow n instead of shoulder parking along the resi- Pi ke dential area adjacent to Live Oak Drive. Proposed PHNST Alignment & Alternatives ¥ Feasibility Study - Completion of the Northern Virginia Regional Com- I-495 to Great Falls NP Great Falls mission feasi- Recommended NHP bility study for (24) routing the Alignment (27) Difficult Run trail along Alternative Bridge Alternative Route Alignment Difficult Run SV Park & Cross County Trail Madeira School (22) Live Oak Recommended PHNST Drive

O Route l d Ge D o o rg m eto n Scotts Run in wn u io P R Nature Preserve n ik e s t D t r o i v c e S

(25) (26) Alternative Alternative Route y ltwa Route e B l a it p a /C 5 9 4

PAGE 23 POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL Fairfax County Implementation Plan Map 5

COST MILEPOSTS1 TRAIL SEGMENTS FEET (est.) ABCDE Map ref. # COMMENTS / DESCRIPTION Map 5 I-495/Capital Beltway to Great Falls National Historic Park

Recommended Alignment - Georgetown Pike Trail Construction Trail Construction Alignment is located on Live Oak Drive. Some striping may be Live Oak Road to Eastern Boundary of Great Fall NHP 21,601 $ 1,002,922 U 22 appropriate. Most of this section of trail already exists, however some critical Eastern Bndry Great Falls NHP to Riverbend Park 17,980 TBD XXXXX 23 improvements would be necessary to upgrade the existing trail tread. A major bridge structure will be necessary to cross over Difficult Run Bridge over Difficult Run 500 $ 375,000 U 24 downstream from the Georgetown Pike crossing. Sub-total 39,581 $ 1,002,922

Recommended Alignment Amenities Large Sign 1200$ Placed at major access point(s). Dranesville District Park. Small Trail Sign 20 $ 1,979 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 7 $ 1,874 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 4,053

Alternative 1 Total Cost $ 1,006,975

Alternative Alignment - Scotts Run/Old Dominion Drive Trail Construction Live Oak Drive to Old Dominion Drive 15,000 $ 536,500 25 Crushed stone. Steep grades, wooded area within the stream valley. Old Dominion Drive & Scotts Run to Difficult Run 19,350 $ 888,830 26 Asphalt 10' wide multi-use trail. Grade separated from Old Dominion Dr.

Difficult Run to Riverbend 20,800 $ - XXXXX 27 Some improvements may be necessary to trail tread within Great Fall NHP. Sub-total 55,150 $ 1,425,330

Alternative Alignment - Scotts Run/Old Dominion Drive Amenities Placed at major access point(s). Dranesville District Park and at Old Large Sign 2400$ Dominion Drive and Scotts Run. Small Trail Sign 28 $ 2,758 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 10 $ 2,611 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 5,769

Alternative Alignment Total Cost $ 1,431,099

PAGE 24 MAP 5 Implementation Plan For The Riverbend Park Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail In Fairfax County (I-495/Capital Beltway to Great Falls NHP) Recommended PHNST Route Alternative PHNST Routes Geo Existing Connecting Trails r (23) ge tow n Existing Potomac Federal Land Other Open Space P ik Heritage Trail e Public Parks (1) in Great Falls NHP Map Reference #

(24) Great Falls Difficult Run NHP Bridge (27) Alternative Route Difficult Run SV Park & Cross County Trail Madeira Live Oak School (22) Recommended PHNST Drive

O Route l d Ge D o o rg m eto n Scotts Run in wn u io P R Nature Preserve n ik e s t D t r o i v c e S

(25) (26) Alternative Alternative Route y ltwa Route e B l a it p a /C 5 9 -4 I

PAGE 25 GREAT FALLS NATIONAL PARK TO LOUDOUN IV. THE PHNST Segment COUNTY LINE IN FAIRFAX COUNTY Length: Recommended Alignment -6.56 miles 6 Number of Private Properties - TBD Properties Under Easement - TBD Status: Underway Trail Type: Natural Surface USGS Quadrangle: Water Bodies: Clarks Branch, Nichols Run Linkages: Riverbend Park, Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority properties

An "unofficial" trail has existed along this corridor would then transverse six private parcels (about parks that are owned and managed by the National for years and has been enjoyed by local hikers and 1,250 feet), four of which currently have easements. Park Service, Fairfax County and the Northern Vir- equestrians who knew of its existence. In the late The trail would then again enter onto another ginia Regional Park Authority. Moreover, this par- 1990's the Great Falls Trailblazers (a local trail ad- NVRPA parcel. About 1.5 miles to the west are ticular section of trail enjoys considerable commu- vocacy group) undertook an effort to formally es- two more private parcels. One of these parcels is nity and volunteer support through the actions of the tablish this section of trail and to obtain easements being developed and a trail easement will be re- Great Falls Trail Blazers, Potomac River Greenways from the private properties that abut the Potomac quired during the Fairfax County subdivision pro- Coalition, and the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club. River. The Trailblazers have made significant cess, to connect to another NVRPA parcel to the With the exception of four parcels, an uninterrupted progress and at the time of publication, only two west. Just upstream of NVRPA, is a large private corridor exists between Great Falls National Historic property easements remain to be completed to as- parcel with 2,135 feet of river frontage. This prop- Park and the Loudoun County boundary (where the sure an uninterrupted corridor between Riverbend erty is the Fraser Preserve and is owned by the Na- corridor can also proceed further west due to exist- Park and the Loudoun County line. ture Conservancy, who have agreed to grant an ease- ing easements and public lands). ment for the trail. From here, the trail enters the RECOMMENDED ALIGNMENT last parcel in Fairfax County, owned by NVRPA, NEXT STEPS From the northern boundary of Great Falls National and the alignment follows the District of Columbia ¥ The reconstruction of a bridge over Clarks Branch Park the trail would continue along the Potomac Water and Sewer Authority (DCWASA) mainte- has been a top priority for local trail users in this shoreline and passes through the parking lot of the nance road for the Potomac interceptor sewer (about area. However, no approved plans have been Riverbend visitors center and boat ramp (approx. 1,680 feet from the Fraser boundary). The trail adopted and the bridge project is not fully funded. .95 mile). Following closely to the shoreline the would follow the DCWASA right-of-way and ex- trail continues north (using existing park trails) un- isting natural surface trails to the Loudoun County ¥ NVRPA and the Great Falls Trail Blazers are work- til reaching the bend in the river where it turns to line for about .86 of a mile. ing to secure easements on the remaining four pri- the northwest. Shortly after crossing Clarks Branch vate parcels in this section of the trail. the trail would enter onto Northern Virginia Re- OPPORTUNITIES AND ISSUES gional Park Authority (NVRPA) property (1.22 This section of trail in Fairfax County represents ¥ Initial talks have been conducted with staff from miles from the visitor center). At the west bound- one of the prime opportunities to demonstrate a co- the District of Columbia Water and Sanitation Au- ary of the NVRPA property (1.15 miles) the trail operative initiative by linking numerous existing thority to negotiate use of the maintenance road

PAGE 26 right-of-way. These negotiations are continuing ity staff has been working with the Great Falls toward a formal agreement between the Trail Blazers and the Potomac Appalachian Trail DCWASA and the Northern Virginia Regional Club to determine an appropriate alignment for Park Authority. the trail and to initiate development of the trail. ¥ Fairfax This cooperative initiative should continue and County Park Author- may serve as a model for the development of other sections of trail in the County.

Potomac Loudoun CountyNVRPA Proposed PHNST Alignment & Alternatives Fraser River Great Falls NP to Loudoun Preserve County Line NVRPA WSSC Right-of -Way Recommended Alignment (29)Alternative NVRPA ExistingAlignment Potomac Heritage Trail

NVRPA

anch s Br Clark

Clarks Branch Bridge

Country Riverbend Club Existing Potomac Heritage Trail

Great Falls NHP

PAGE 27 POTOMAC HERITAGE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL Fairfax County Implementation Plan Map 6

COST MILEPOSTS1 TRAIL SEGMENTS FEET (est.) ABCDE Map ref. # COMMENTS / DESCRIPTION Map 6 Great Falls NHP to Loudoun County Line

Trail Construction Great Fall NHP Boundary to Riverbend Visitors Center 5,052 $ 25,260 XXXXX 28 Natural surface hiking and equestrian trail Riverbend Visitors Center to Eastern Boundary of NVRPA Property 6,490 $ 32,450 U 29 Natural surface hiking and equestrian trail Large Bridge over Clark's Run 200 $ 150,000 U 30 Large bridge over Clarkes Run (replace bridge washed out from flood). Eastern Boundary of NVRPA Property to Fraser Preserve 14,212 $ 71,060 U 31 Natural surface hiking and equestrian trail Bridge over Nichols Run 60 $ 45,000 U 32 Small bridge suitable to cross Nichols Run Fraser Preserve to WSSC Right-of-Way 3,811 $ 19,055 U 33 Natural surface hiking and equestrian trail WSSC Right-of-Way to Loudoun County Line 4,580 $ 22,900 U 34 Improvements to existing gravel maintenance roadbed. 10 Minor Water Crossings 250 $ 175,000 U Bridge or culverts for minor, unnamed water crossings. Sub-total 34,655 $ 540,725

Amenities Large Sign 1200$ Placed at major access point(s). Riverbend Park. Small Trail Sign 17$ 1,733 Placed every 2,000 feet. Trash Receptacles (Fiberglass) 71,$ 641 Placed every mile. Sub-total $ 3,574

Total Cost $ 544,299

PAGE 28 MAP 6 Implementation Plan For The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail In Fairfax County Po County to (Great Falls NHP to Loudoun County Line) m a c (32) Recommended PHNST Route Loudoun NVRPA Nichols Run Alternative PHNST Routes Bridge River Existing Connecting Trails

Federal Land Other Open Space (33) NVRPA WSSC (33) Public Parks (1) Map Reference # Right-of -Way Fraser Preserve

(29) NVRPA Existing Potomac Heritage Trail (31)

NVRPA

anch s Br Clark (30) Clarks Branch Bridge Country Riverbend Club

(28) Existing Great Falls Potomac Heritage Trail NHP

PAGE 29 FAIRFAX V. APPENDICES COUNTY

A. Trail Construction Cost Estimate Methodology

B. Sources of Funding

C. Listing of PHNST Stakeholders

D. Draft Guidelines for Requesting Designation of a Trail as a Segment of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail