TORONTO MULTI-USE TRAIL DESIGN GUIDELINES
Shade Tree
Interpretation Signage
Fence 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Area of Special Interest
1.0m min. Bench Clearance
Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Transportation Services Parks, Forestry & Recreation Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design GuidelinesJanuary 20151 Acknowledgements The Toronto Multi-use Trail Guidelines are a joint project of the City of Toronto’s Transportation Services and Parks, Forestry and Recreation Divisions. The following individuals and their organizations are recognized here for their contribution to the development of these guidelines. CONSULTANT TEAM Victor Ford and Associates Inc Landscape Architects Victor Ford, OALA, CSLA, ASLA Jeremy Craig Lori Philp Mehran Ataee Jocelyn Hirtes
with support from Bríd Ní Leidhin, Cole Engineering Group Limited
STEERING COMMITTEE
Transportation Services Daniel Egan, Manager; Cycling Infrastructure & Programs Jennifer Hyland, Transportation Planner; Cycling Infrastructure & Programs Sibel Sarper, Assistant Planner; Cycling Infrastructure & Programs Parks, Forestry & Recreation Alex Shevchuk, Project Manager, Landscape Architecture Unit; Planning, Design & Development Stewart McIntosh, Landscape Architect; Landscape Architecture Unit; Planning, Design & Development Ruthanne Henry, Project Co-ordinator; Parks Development & Capital Projects Shade Tree Wendy Strickland, Natural Environment Specialist; Natural Environment & Community Programs Shade Tree
TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage City Planning Fence Fence 1.0m min. Hamish Goodwin, Urban Designer; Civic Design; City Planning / Design Review Panel Coordinator 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Kristina Reinders, Urban Designer; Civic Design; City Planning Trail Clearance Area of Special Area of Special Interest Engineering and Construction Services Interest Penelope Palmer, Senior Engineer, Capital Works Delivery A 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance Emergency Medical Services Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Cindy Taber, Superintendent Operations, EMS Program Development and Professional Services Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
Waterfront2 TrailToronto at Multi-UseMarie Curtis Trail Design Park Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines i Toronto Water Acknowledgements, continued Bill Snodgrass, Senior Engineer; Stormwater Management; Water Contents Parks, Forestry & Recreation Infrastructure Management PREFACE viii 6. TRAILS IN SPECIAL SITUATIONS 59 Tara Coley, Project Coordinator; Standards & Innovation Background viii 6.1. Strategies for Multi-use Trail 59 Carol Cormier, Manager; Standards & Innovation Transportation Services Policy viii Development with Challenging or Johanna Kyte, Project Lead; Public Realm – Beautiful Streets Constrained Site Conditions James Dann, Manager; Parks – Waterfront District Program 6.2. Constructing Trails in Challenging 61 Norman DeFraeye, Supervisor; Ravine and Natural Features 1. INTRODUCTION 1 Site Conditions Marko Oinonen, Manager, Trafic Operations – Scarborough District Protection 1.1. Scope | Application 1 6.3. Trails through Natural Areas 65 Jackie Parissi, Supervisor, Street & Expressway Lighting – Trafic 1.2. Guiding Principles 1 6.4. Special Restrictions 68 Lori Ellis, Planner; Central Waterfront Planning & Design Plant Installation & Maintenance 1.3. Sound Design Judgement 1 6.5 Multi-use Trails in Park Roads and 71 Ed Fearon, Program Standards & Development Oficer; Chris Ronson, Project Manager; Public Realm -- Pedestrian Projects Parking Lots Standards & Innovation 2. MULTI-USE TRAIL CLASSIFICATION 3 6.6 Vehicular Access Control 74 Rob Watson, Project Oficer; Public Realm – Beautiful Streets Diane Leal, Urban Forestry Planner; Ravine and Natural Program Features Protection 3. GEOMETRIC DESIGN FOR MULTI-USE 7 7. DESIGN FOR MULTI-USE TRAIL 77 TRAILS ELEMENTS AND AMENITIES Roger Macklin, General Supervisor; Parks – North York District PARTICIPATING STAKEHOLDER ORGANIZATIONS 3.1. Trail Users 7 7.1. Signage and Wayinding 77 Jamie Warren, General Supervisor, Technical; Parks – North Canada Bikes 3.2. Design Users 8 7.2. Grade Separations and Structures 83 York District City of Mississauga, Parks Forestry Division, Community Services 3.3. Volume of Users 9 7.3. Lighting 86 and Cycling Ofice 3.4. Mix of Users 10 7.4. Resting and Viewing Areas 87 Lorene Bodiam, Program Standards & Development Oficer; 3.5. Site Features 10 7.5. Trailheads 89 Community Development Cycle Toronto, Trails Working Group and Cycle 26 3.6. Special Uses 11 7.6. Passing Areas 89 Etobicoke South Cycling Committee 7.7. Site Furnishings 90 Policy, Planning, Finance & Administration 4. TYPICAL TRAIL DESIGN 13 7.8 Personal Security 94 Maogosha Pyjor, Senior Public Consultation Coordinator; Public Gooderham & Worts Neighbourhood Association 4.1. Design Condition 13 7.9. Temporary Conditions 95 Consultation Hydro One Networks Inc., Facilities and Real Estate 4.2. Trail Conigurations 14 4.3. Trail Width and Surface 22 8. CONSTRUCTION OF MULTI-USE TRAILS 96 Metrolinx, Policy, Planning and Innovation Public Health Shade Tree 4.4. Trail Edge Conditions 23 Shade Tree Rich Whate, Consultant, Health Promotion Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Sport – Ontario Trails Strategy 4.5. Vertical Clearances 27 9. MAINTENANCE CONSIDERATIONS 99 Ministry of Transportation -- Ontario 4.6. Slopes 28 FOR MULTI-USE TRAILS Solid Waste City of Toronto – Parks, Forestry, and Recreation Division 4.7. Curves 28 Eugene Benda, Supervisor; Landill Monitoring; Municipalities CommunityInterpretation Disability Steering Signage Committee 4.8. Existing, Non-conforming Trails 32 Interpretation Signage & Services PEL Consulting 5. TRAIL CROSSINGS 35 Fence Fence Toronto and Region Conservation1.0m min. Authority Todmorden Mills Wildlower Preserve 5.1. Trail Intersections 35 1.0m min. Mike Bender, Manager, ConservationTrail Clearance Lands 5.2. Crossing Roads 40 Trail Clearance Toronto FieldArea Naturalists of Special Area of Special Adam Szalarski, Acting Conservation Lands Coordinator Interest 5.3. Park Roads and Driveways 57 Interest Toronto Green Community Brittany Reid, Landscape and Trail Designer, Conservation 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Lands Bench Clearance Toronto Trailblazers Bench Clearance Walk Toronto Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Waterfront Regeneration Trust ii Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines iii List of Figures
Figure 2.01. multi-use trail classiication chart Figure 5.16: mid-block crossing conigurations (signalized examples) Figure 5.17: mid-block crossing coniguration (unsignalized examples) Figure 4.01 multi-use trail condition chart Figure 5.18: unsignalized crossing coniguration of a trail and a roadway ramp Figure 4.02: secondary trail coniguration Figure 5.19: typical park road / driveway crossings: design options Figure 4.03: primary trail coniguration Figure 4.04: high-capacity trail - wide trail coniguration Figure 6.01: preferred design for trails on slopes Figure 4.05: high-capacity trail coniguration with pedestrian-only area/promenade/sidewalk Figure 6.02: typical trail construction in wet soil areas Figure 4.06: high-capacity trail coniguration with separated pedestrian-only area Figure 6.03: trail design conigurations for wet soil areas Figure 4.07: high-capacity trail - segregated-use coniguration Figure 6.04: trail crossing at active railway Figure 4.08: high-capacity trail -- twinned coniguration Figure 6.05: trails through or adjacent to parking lots Figure 4.09: typical trail construction Figure 6.06: vehicular access control options Figure 4.10: dimensions of trail clearances Figure 4.11: slopes or drop-offs parallel to trail Figure 7.01a: placement of signage Figure 4.12: example of clearance and mitigation for trails with edge obstruction Figure 7.01b: placement of infoboard Figure 4.13: curb-side zones Figure 7.02: signage table Figure 4.14: vertical clearances Figure 7.03: signage guide plan Figure 4.15: maximum cross-slopes Figure 4.16: maintenance markers for curve clearances Figure 4.17: horizontal curves: 30 km/h bicycle design speed with no mitigation measures Figure 4.18: horizontal curves: 20 km/h bicycle design speed with mitigation measures All igures prepared by Victor Ford and Associates Inc, with the exception of the map on the rear overleaf, Figure 4.19: horizontal curves: 30 km/h bicycle design speed with mitigation measures which has been prepared by Victor Ford and Associates Inc using mapping provided by City of Toronto Transportation Services, Cycling Infrastructure & Programs. Figure 5.01: alignments for trail crossings Figure 5.02: crossing of two trails of similar width Figure 5.03: crossing of two trails of differentShade widths Tree Shade Tree Figure 5.04: T-intersection of two trails Photo Credit: Figure 5.05: lateral clearance for two merging trails All photographs by Victor Ford and Associates Inc Figure 5.06: mixed crossride Figure 5.07: enhancement options for mixed crossrides Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage Figure 5.08: combined crossride comprised of zebra stripes and elephant’s feet Figure 5.09: separated crossride comprised of double zebra stripes and elephant’s feet Fence Fence Figure 5.10: 1.0m asymmetrical min. separated crossride comprised of zebra stripes and elephant’s feet 1.0m min. Figure 5.11: Trail pavement Clearance word markings Trail Clearance Figure 5.12: trail crossing at intersection (signalized exampleArea with of asymmetrical Special separated crossride) Area of Special Interest Interest Figure 5.13: trail crossing at intersection (signalized example with combined crossride) Figure 5.14: trail crossing at intersection (all way stop controlled example with asymmetrical separated crossride) 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Figure 5.15: trailBench crossing Clearance at intersection (all way stop controlled example with mixed crossride) Bench Clearance
Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
iv Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines v
Preface
These Guidelines will assist the City of Toronto in the development and ongoing maintenance of multi-use trails throughout the city. The guidelines respond to the urban context of Toronto’s trails and their varied locations in city boulevards, ravines, parkland, and rail and hydro corridors. These guidelines are consistent with current, relevant City and Provincial guidelines and policy documents, as well as with current North American and international best practices. In some cases, these guidelines make recommendations that exceed existing guidelines and best practices, to create truly world-class multi-use trails for Toronto’s residents and visitors.
Background In June 2012, Toronto City Council adopted the Bikeway Trails Implementation Plan1 a planning document which is the basis for moving forward with new multi-use trail development within the city. The Plan calls for 77 kilometres of new trails to be built within a ten-year time frame. The Plan also identiies priorities for upgrades to the city’s existing trail network and a plan for consistency in maintenance practices. The Plan provides a program that supports future trail building. One element of that program is the development of these Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines.
Policy The City of Toronto Oficial Plan2 recognizes that the city-wide bike network, which includes the multi-use trail system, is a key element of the City’s transportation network. These Guidelines support implementation of the Oficial Plan by helping to develop a safe and comfortable environment that encourages people of all ages to choose active transportation for everyday mobility and enjoyment.
Oficial Plan references: 2.2 Structuring Growth in the City: Integrating Land Use and Transportation Shade Tree Shade Tree 2.4 Bringing the City Together: A Progressive Agenda of Transportation Change, Policy 7(a)
The City of Toronto Parks Plan 2013-20173 identiies four key themes (page vi) Interpretation Signage 1. Communicate and connect with users Interpretation Signage
Fence 2. Preserve and promote nature Fence 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance 3. Maintain quality parks Trail Clearance Area of Special Area of Special Interest 4. Improve system planning Interest
1.0m min. 1 http://www1.toronto.ca/City%20Of%20Toronto/Policy,%20Planning,%20Finance%20&%20Administration/Public%20Consultation%20Unit/ 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Studies/Transportation/East%20Don%20Trail/Files/PDF/trails_project_table.pdf Bench Clearance
Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas 2 http://www1.toronto.ca/wps/portal/contentonly?vgnextoid=03eda07443f36410VgnVCM10000071d60f89RCRD Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas 3 http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2013/pe/bgrd/backgroundile-57282.pdf View along theToronto Don Multi-Use Trail Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines vii Of these, the signiicant theme for trail planning and design is number 4, “Improve system planning,” which includes the following exerpted clauses:
10.4 Complete a comprehensive inventory and mapping of parks, trails and assets 11.2 Develop policies, standards and measures to support the appropriate use of parks and trails that guide planning, design, space allocation and permitting, and that address emerging and exclusive uses 11.3 Improve and coordinate trail mapping, classiication, maintenance, way-inding and connections to other public realm elements 12.2 Ensure that parks and trails meet or exceed provincial accessibility requirements
These guidelines support all of these measures by:
• providing tools for creating a detailed inventory of existing and planned trails and related assets; • providing tools to standardize the process for planning and designing trails; • providing tools--including a new trail classiication system--that that will allow city staff to better coordinate trail mapping, classiication, maintenance, way-inding and connections to other public realm elements; and • providing a design and planning tool that incorporates best practices for universal design that meet or exceed provincially-mandated requirements. Shade Tree Shade Tree
Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage
Fence Fence 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance Area of Special Area of Special Interest Interest
1.0m min. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance
Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
viii Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines View along the Gatineau Hydro Corridor Trail, near McCowan Road Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Introduction 1 1.2. Guiding Principles 1.3. Sound Design Judgement These guidelines have been developed for Toronto Transportation Services and Toronto Parks, Forestry and The following guiding principles have been developed in Designers and decision-makers should exercise every Recreation. Many stakeholders have been consulted and order to evaluate the success of these guidelines and of effort to comply with these guidelines whenever possible. a broad literature review conducted to ensure that this trails that may be developed by following them. Situations may arise where a designer’s judgment may document will be a useful and practical resource, with be that the guideline should be exceeded, and in other ahead-of-the-curve guidance for trail planners, designers Consistency and Excellence situations, a designer’s judgment may determine that there are sound reasons that a design may be considered and operators in Toronto and elsewhere. MULTI-USE TRAILS should be consistently designed, constructed and maintained, in accordance with clearly- appropriate despite a certain guideline not being met. In deined guidelines that meet current and evolving best these cases, designers should reasonably and carefully practices, as a minimum. Wherever possible, Toronto’s limit the departures from the guideline, document 1.1. Scope | Application MULTI-USE TRAILS should strive to exceed existing best the reasons for them, and provide suitable mitigation practices and “raise the bar” for excellence. measures. While these guidelines may be broadly applicable for the design of any multi-use trail, it is important to note that Safety, Security and Comfort they have been developed primarily as a resource for the The SAFETY, SECURITY and COMFORT of all trail users design and operation of a speciic network of multi-use are primary considerations for the design, construction trails in Toronto (see rear overleaf for current network and maintenance of MULTI-USE TRAILS. map). Accessibility These are not local park walkways or natural All people are welcome on Toronto’s MULTI-USE TRAILS, environment trails, and they are also not dedicated regardless of ability. The design, construction and bicycle lanes. maintenance of these facilities must strive to adhere to the principles of Universal Design, and to exceed relevant Shade Tree These are hard-surfaced, off-road routes that form a regulations wherever possible. Shade Tree network of active transportation options across the City, with on-road bikeways, sidewalks and park paths. They Sustainability also provide a signiicant recreation asset. All facilities MULTI-USE TRAILS should be designed, constructed formingInterpretation part of Signage this network should be considered to be and maintained in the most sustainable ways possible: Interpretation Signage shared among many kinds of users. accommodating existing and anticipated volumes of users and making use of sustainable building and Fence Fence 1.0m min. maintenance technologies wherever possible. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance Area of Special Environmental Protection Area of Special Interest Interest As many MULTI-USE TRAILS exist within sensitive 1.0m min. natural environments, it is important that the design, 1.0m min. Bench Clearance construction, use, and maintenance of these facilities Bench Clearance minimize impacts and disruptions within and adjacent to Pedestrians enjoying the Don Mills Trail Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas the trail corridor. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
View alongx HighlandToronto Multi-Use Creek TrailTrail, Design near Guidelines Colonel Danforth Park Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 1 2 Trail Classiication The trail classiication system described in this chapter is intended to provide a simple method of categorizing multi- use trails based on their function in Toronto’s networks of active transportation facilities and parks. The classiication of trails facilitates a family of design options that are presented in the following chapters.
Toronto’s trails form a dense network throughout the city. Taken together with the city’s parks and open spaces, sidewalks and on-road bicycle facilities; this network forms part of a greater network of active transportation and recreation choices for Toronto’s residents and visitors.
Within this network, each trail, park, bicycle lane or other component has a particular role to play. As a result, each trail needs to have certain characteristics to ensure that it can perform appropriately. Three classes of trails are identiied by their role in the network: Example of a secondary trail in G Ross Lord Park
Secondary trails connect between destinations within a small geographic area, or act as feeder or tributary Shade Tree routes for larger trails. They are similar to local or Shade Tree collector roads in the road classiication system, or to parkettes and neighbourhood parks in the parks network.
Interpretation Signage Primary trails connect between destinations in Interpretation Signage different parts of the city, and will often connect with Fence each other, providing perhaps the most signiicant level Fence 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance of connectivity among the three types. They are similar Trail Clearance Area of Special to arterial roads in the road classiication system, or Example of a primary trail: Finch Hydro Area of Special Interest to community and district parks in the parks network. Corridor Trail, near the intersection Interest The majority of multi-use trails in Toronto are in this of McNicoll Avenue and Middleield Road 1.0m min. category. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance
Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
View along theToronto Finch Multi-Use Hydro Trail Corridor Design Trail, Guidelines looking west from near Sentinel Road Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 3 SECONDARY catchment area: smallest 2 user volumes: lowest local connections mix of user-types: average feeder or tributary routes site features: typical special uses: none seasonal variation: typical
PRIMARY catchment area: large user volumes: medium to high connects different parts of the city mix of user-types: average collects traffic from secondary trails Figure 2.01. connects with other primary trails site features: minor features or amenities multi-use trail may be present classiication chart special uses: special uses may occur if no closure is required seasonal variation: typical
HIGH-CAPACITY catchment area: largest Example of a high-capacity trail: Martin Goodman Trail waterfront user volumes: highest promenade in Marilyn Bell Park (south-west of Exhibition Place) may perform any or all of the functions of primary and/or secondary trails mix of user-types: varies site features: significant attractions, collects traffic from primary and Shade Tree features, and/or amenities Shade Tree High-capacity trails provide a special function in the With any attempt to classify diverse elements, there secondary trails may be present network. In the simplest sense, they accommodate will be some level of overlap evident among the actual the highest number of users, and can be compared facilities, and some examples of non-conformance. This trail may be a destination or attraction itself to the expressways in the road network or to large should not pose a signiicant problem, as the various special uses: various special uses may “City Parks” in the park network. High-capacity trails designInterpretation conigurations Signage presented later incorporate the be accommodated including Interpretation Signage address a broader concept of “capacity” than simply possibility of overlap, and are capable of bridging most those that may require greater size or volume, however, and they do not imply gaps.Fence temporary closures or Fence 1.0m min. special permits 1.0m min. greater speed.Trail They Clearance connect to signiicant destinations Trail Clearance within the city and can be utilized to accommodate NewArea trails of Special will be designed to it within these seasonal variation: atypical patterns of use Area of Special a wider range or unusual distribution of user-types, classiications.Interest Identiication of the classes of existing depending upon site Interest to perform special functions, or to address particular trails has already taken place, but may need to be features present 1.0m min. 1.0m min. site conditions. Bench Notably, Clearance high-capacity trails may be applied to new trails, or reined as the city evolves over Bench Clearance destinations or attractions themselves. time. The map provided in the overleaf at the end of Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas these guidelines provides a snapshot of the trail system Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas in autumn, 2014. 4 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 5 2 3 General Design Considerations The comfort and safety of trail users will be served by facilities that anticipate how different types of users behave on a trail, how many users may be present at a time of peak use, and whether they are all travelling by the same mode or using the trail for the same purpose.
3.1. Trail Users Toronto’s multi-use trails are utilized by residents and In Toronto, all multi-use trails are intended to be used for visitors throughout the year in many ways. A discussion all purposes. These trails are not considered to be only of trail users must take in not only the growing number recreational or only commuter trails. of trail users, but their growing variety as well. While the prevalent uses of trails may not be experiencing a Age of trail users, and skill and comfort level are often signiicant shift, the subtle changes are useful to observe, considered together. Providing trails that are inviting and especially where potential conlicts or incompatibilities safe for users of all ages, skills and comfort levels, should may arise between different uses. be a priority for designers.
Modes of travel are becoming more diverse, with in- line skating, scooters, pedal-bikes, recumbent bicycles, skateboards, longboards and many other non-motorized ways of moving around appearing on trails. These are probably not going to compete with pedestrians and cyclists for sheer numbers, but their increasing presence Shade Tree Shade Tree is worth consideration, and supports designing trails that are capable of accommodating different users.
Purposes or trip purposes have most often been viewed Interpretation Signage from a cyclist lens, with commuter, recreational and Interpretation Signage touring being the usual categories. This remains a Fence useful simpliication, however a broader view can take in Fence 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance signiicant users who may appear in smaller numbers but Trail Clearance Area of Special have a signiicant impact. These include hikers, joggers, Area of Special Interest dog-walkers, cycle-couriers (with or without cargo bikes Interest and trailers) child-care workers and their carriages, 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance school groups and others. Bench Clearance
Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas In-line skater on the Lower Don Trail Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
East Don TrailToronto in Charles Multi-Use Sauriol Trail Design Conservation Guidelines Area, near Milne Hollow Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 7 3 3.2. Design Users Geometric design of trails typically follows from Providing a high level of accessibility is important In some circumstances, such as access ramps, operating Any point on any trail of a given class should exhibit an assessment of the anticipated users and their for the success of Toronto’s trails. Compliance space and other physical characteristics required by the similar user volume characteristics as other trails of the characteristics as they move along a trail. For different with legislated requirements and best practices for legislation will be a primary determinant for functional same class. Characteristics that might be considered aspects of trail design, it is common practice to identify accessibility are critical for determining trail designs. design. In other cases, such as with regard to lateral include total user volumes and peak user volumes, as a design user whose characteristics place the greatest Therefore, where accessibility requirements exceed clearances, the requirements of other design users will well as the direction and purpose of each user. demand on any particular aspect of trail geometry. the characteristics of other design users, they will exceed the accessibility requirements, and provide a higher level of accessibility as a result. determine basic geometric requirements. This includes Total user volume refers to the overall number of users These guidelines take an inclusive approach to design restricting cross-slopes to 2%, keeping running slopes of all types, during a 24-hour period. Peak user volume users with the intended result that trails are comfortable, Most of the trails covered by these guidelines must under 5% and ramps under 6.67%, wherever possible. refers to the highest hourly user volume observed on enjoyable, and usable for the widest range of users. Slower accommodate emergency vehicles, maintenance a given trail, and may or may not correspond to typical moving trail users such as pedestrians and inexperienced vehicles and/or waste removal trucks to some extent. morning or afternoon rush hour periods. cyclists are to be comfortably accommodated alongside This will control minimum trail widths and will also help faster, more experienced cyclists. Ontario Regulation 191/11 - Integrated to determine trail construction requirements. In some 1 It is not always possible to make accurate predictions of Accessibility Standards, was established under cases this may determine loading required on bridges the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities user volumes for planned trails. However a generalized or other structures, and the cover required over culverts Act, 2005. comparison with other, similar trails is possible. Some and drains. factors to consider are: The standards that apply to trails are included in the Integrated Accessibility Standards Trails are typically not designed for heavy-duty vehicles 2 such as ire trucks or full-sized garbage trucks. • Size of catchment area: the greater the ratio of Regulation Guidelines, April 2014. catchment area to length of trail, the higher the Cyclists are restricted by by-law to a speed limit of 20 anticipated use. kilometres per hour1, which will be the design speed used to determine minimum turning radii. As cyclists often • Population density of catchment area: an increase move more quickly with experience or with a downward in this factor also increases, and possibly multiplies slope in their favour, the minimum facilities determined the effect of the catchment area. by this speed should be provided with additional features Shade Tree to mitigate any possible hazards. Designing trails with a • Number of entry points: as this increases, barriers Shade Tree more conservative, 30 kilometres per hour design speed restricting use are removed, and a facility is more is preferred where site conditions will allow. likely to collect more users from its catchment area. • Variety of destinations: for example a trail that Interpretation Signage 3.3. Volume of Users connects a series of residential areas will probably Interpretation Signage see less use than a trail that connects between Fence Trails are expected to exhibit typical patterns of use residential, mixed-use and employment areas. Fence 1.0m min. during the day that generally adhere to certain patterns. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance These patterns generally relate to the traditional work- • Alternative trail options: a greater number of trails Area of Special within a given area will result in fewer users for each Area of Special Tandem bicyclists on the Martin Goodman Trail, near AshbridgesInterest Bay day and work-week, the school calendar, and the Interest seasons. Factors unique to every trail will result in trail, if other factors are equalized. 1.0m min. slight variations, even on different parts of the same 1.0m min. 1 http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/html/regs/english/elaws_regs_110191_e.htm Bench Clearance trail. Bench Clearance Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances2 http://www.mcss.gov.on.ca/documents/en/mcss/accessibility/DOPS%20Guidelines%20%28short%29%20FINAL% for rest stops or other trail amenity areas 20 Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas April%202014%20EN-s.pdf 1 Toronto Municipal Code, Chapter 608, Parks (§608-32) http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/municode/1184_608.pdf 8 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 9 3.4. Mix of Users Limiting factors include a range of possible site side of the trail. The widest range of ages and conditions that limit the possible trail conigurations abilities should be expected. The presence of many 3 The different types of uses anticipated for a trail will because one or more characteristic of the classes is distractions and crossing movements along the trail help determine the appropriate design coniguration. A incompatible with the site conditions. Some examples can also be foreseen. These all add up to a need higher level of trail development is indicated by a variety include: for a facility type with adequate space for different of uses, and more overlapping of these uses during the users that will serve to resolve or minimize the day. • Environmentally sensitive sites and habitat potential conlicts that may arise. corridors are not compatible with lit facilities or with certain types of winter maintenance, and may • Localized attractions, views, etc. will have a similar • Does the proposed trail provide a connection effect as the waterfront sites, but at a smaller scale. between residential, mixed-use and employment be more heavily impacted by twinned trails or other larger conigurations; therefore they may not be Consideration may be given to providing a more areas? If the answer is yes, heavier commuting generous trail coniguration for the entire trail section cyclist volumes can be anticipated, spread across the compatible with the more intensive trail classes. If a trail must be located in these areas, additional or for only the part adjacent or connecting to the day with peak times in the morning and afternoon attraction, including short offshoots of the trail. rush-hours. The Beach Skateboard Park, a popular destination mitigation measures should be considered on a site adjacent to The Waterfront Trail, near Coxwell Avenue speciic basis. • Are there alternative trail or transportation • Some lood plain and ravine sites are not compatible 3.6. Special Uses options that are more convenient or more direct? which will generally be distributed throughout the day If the answer is yes, commuting cyclists will likely with all-season uses. with higher volumes observed on weekends and in Occasionally, Toronto’s trails travel through areas that form a smaller proportion of trail users, however warmer seasons. • Sites on rail or hydro corridor lands will be subject are used for special events. In some cases, these may their peak times remain in the morning and to speciic technical requirements and thus will not • Does the proposed trail pass through or not be compatible with existing trail trafic due to security afternoon rush-hours. be compatible with certain features that may be near signiicant tourist areas or sporting or concerns, paid-access or sheer density of the event. In necessary for the more intensive trail conigurations • Does the proposed trail connect to schools? If entertainment venues? If the answer is yes, then other cases, the event may disrupt trail trafic, but not so or for trails with extensive amenities. the answer is yes, higher numbers of children higher volumes of users can be expected during much that trail users must be warned or diverted. and adolescents should be anticipated, often warm seasons. Irregular spikes in use can also be accompanied by adults. Peak periods will occur anticipated. Multipliers include a range of possible site conditions during morning rush-hour and slightly ahead of that create signiicantly higher user volumes, • Consider other local conditions that may drive an afternoon rush-hour. During summer months, this occasionally, seasonally or year-round. These may Shade Tree increase or decrease in a particular kind of trail user, Shade Tree use would be less. be limited to smaller segments of a larger trail. Some and how that volume would rise and fall during the examples include: • Does the proposed trail connect to or travel day and across the seasons. through parks, playgrounds, or other open space • Special events permitting: is the area of the trail or recreational facilities? If yes, then higher Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage proportions of recreational users and children can (or the trail itself) subject to permitting for special 3.5. Site Features events, or does it pass through areas used for special be expected, which will generally be distributed Fence Fence throughout1.0m the min. day with higher volumes observed The situation of every trail facility will be unique however events? If the answer is yes, then consideration 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance on weekends and in warmer seasons. there are a few generalizations that can be made should be given to high-capacity trail types, including Area of Special bypass conigurations. Area of Special about Interestsite features that are helpful for determining an Interest • Does the proposed trail connect to seniors’ appropriate trail design, when considered in conjunction • Waterfront sites will be subject to high seasonal residences 1.0m or othermin. facilities popular with with the above factors. These can be divided into two 1.0m min. Bench Clearance use of a speciic nature. The proportion of Bench Clearance senior citizens? If yes, then higher proportions of broad categories that we will call limiting factors and pedestrians can be predicted to be very high, and recreational users and seniors can be expected, multipliers. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas they can be expected to mainly use the water- Toronto Caribbean Carnival and Martin Goodman Trail Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
10 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 11 4 Typical Trail Design This section provides guidance on the geometric design of linear trail facilities, including typical cross-sections, edge treatments and curves. Broadly speaking, the guidance contained here attempts to provide a limited set of templates that can be applied to most situations. Designers should strive to comply with the guidelines, recognizing that ev- ery trail is unique and may require new solutions. Where a design solution is proposed that does not comply with these guidelines, a more rigorous justiication of design decisions should be provided, and robust mitigation measure should be included.
4.1. Design Condition
In the following section a family of typical design (i) where a particular class and/or coniguration of conigurations is presented. These follow from the trail is desired, the corridor width requirements may trail classiication presented in chapter 2. Certain be used as the basis for planning a trail—to determine dimensions in each coniguration are provided as potential impacts, or to negotiate access to properties ranges. The dimension for any given trail element is outside of City ownership. In both instances, the desire referred to as the design condition. Three terms are for additional amenities or landscaping should be used: minimum, default and exemplary. considered, as these may give cause to increase the suggested corridor width for the length of the trail, or in Determining the appropriate dimensions can be done speciic locations. with reference to the factors identiied in chapter 3. The default dimension should always be the starting (ii) where the space available is limited to a narrow point, and any selected dimension above or below it corridor, comparison with suggested corridor widths will Shade Tree should be justiied by the presence of one or more of determine the maximum possible class of trail, for that Shade Tree the conditions noted in the right column of the following space. chart. For any given trail it is possible to have segments with different design conditions, depending upon opportunities or constraints. Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage
Fence 4.1.1. Trail Planning and Corridor Fence 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Width Trail Clearance Area of Special Each of the trail conigurations presented on the Area of Special Interest Interest following pages include minimum, default and 1.0m min. exemplary dimensions for various elements. These 1.0m min. Bench Clearance add up to an overall corridor width that can be useful Bench Clearance to planners and designers early in the trail planning View of the Don Mills Trail near Lawrence Avenue Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas process in two ways: Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
“Twinned” segmentToronto Multi-Use of the EglintonTrail Design West Guidelines Trail, near Kipling Avenue Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 13 TRAIL CONDITIONS
A Multi-use Trail Surface 4 Minimum possible justifications for not meeting default design: B Lateral Clearance dimensions given as minimum are use/user pressure* are below average to least within class C Furnishing Zone the absolute minimum physical constraints this category includes any dimension environmental constraints less than default limited space mitigation measures such as warning signs may be considered, especially existing trail is less than default and functioning satisfactorily where only a portion of a trail is minimum
Figure 4.01. multi-use trail condition Default no justification required (this is the preferred design) natural area vertical clearance parkland chart starting point for every design
Figure 4.02. secondary trail Exemplary possible justifications for exceeding default design: coniguration typically no maximum for exemplary use/user pressure* are significant, including situations where C B A B C required dimensions special uses occur or significant site features are present corridor trail is intended to be a destination this category includes any dimension 0.6m 0.6m 2.7m 0.6m 0.6m total=5.1m minimum greater than default physical, environmental and spatial constraints are surmountable, if present 1.0m 1.0m 3.0m 1.0m 1.0m total=7.0m default other opportunities exist for exemplary trail development, such as available funding or community support for exemplary n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a not applicable exemplary Shade Tree design treatment. Shade Tree
* Use/user pressures refers to the topics in the right-hand column of the classiications chart (Figure 2.01.) and include, catchment area, user volumes, mix of user-types, site features, special uses, and seasonal variation. All secondary trails should conform to the coniguration above. For surface, slope and edge conditions, refer to the Interpretation Signage following sections. Interpretation Signage 4.2. Trail Conigurations in the High-capacity class, and is joined by additional conigurationsFence that are more substantially different. Fence The illustrations1.0m min. on the following pages detail 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance conigurations for Secondary, Primary and High-capacity Texts accompanying the illustrations describe where The default dimension for a secondary trail provides space for two cyclists to pass each other, with no Area of Special Area of Special trails. each isInterest appropriate. overlapping of their preferred operating space of 1.5 metres each. Interest The minimum dimension provides space for two cyclists to pass each other where one cyclist is operating in For Secondary and1.0m Primary min. trails, there is essentially Discussions of the trail width and surface, edge their preferred operating space, and the other in their minimum operating space of 1.2 metres each. 1.0m min. a single, basic coniguration,Bench Clearance with acceptable ranges conditions, and other elements follow after the Bench Clearance of dimensions. This coniguration repeats itself again diagrams. These widths are considered appropriate and comfortable for low-volume trails. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
14 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 15 4 A Multi-use Trail Surface B Lateral Clearance C Furnishing Zone
natural area vertical clearance parkland natural area vertical clearance parkland
Figure 4.04. Figure 4.03. high-capacity primary trail trail - wide trail coniguration coniguration
C B A B C required A required corridor C B B C corridor
0.6m 0.6m 3.0m 0.6m 0.6m total=5.4m minimum 0.6m 0.6m 3.6m 0.6m 0.6m total=6.0m minimum
1.0m 1.0m 3.6m 1.0m 1.0m total=7.6m default 1.0m 1.0m 4.1m 1.0m 1.0m total=8.1m default
>1m 1.0m>3.6m 1.0m >1m total>7.6m exemplary >1m 1.0m>4.1m 1.0m >1m total>8.1m exemplary Shade Tree Shade Tree
All primary trails should conform to the coniguration above. For surface, slope and edge conditions, refer to the The coniguration above represents the simplest version of a high-capacity trail. It is intended for situations where high following sections. volume is the primary determinant for using a high-capacity coniguration. For special situations, one of the following conigurations may be more appropriate. For surface, slope and edge conditions, refer to the following sections. Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage
The default dimension for a primary trail provides space forFence two cyclists to pass each other, with no Fence 1.0m min. 1.0m min. overlappingTrail of theirClearance preferred operating space of 1.5 metres each with extra space left over, for three The default dimension for a high-capacity trail provides space for many combinations of users to pass each Trail Clearance cyclists at their minimum operating space of 1.2 metres each,Area or of forSpecial a cyclist using 1.5 metres to pass two other. Area of Special pedestrians walking abreast. Interest Interest The minimum dimension provides space for three cyclists at their minimum operating space of 1.2 metres The minimum dimension1.0m min. provides space for two cyclists to pass each other with no overlapping of their each, or for a cyclist at 1.5 metres to pass two pedestrians walking abreast. 1.0m min. preferred operatingBench space. Clearance Bench Clearance These widths are considered appropriate and comfortable for higher-volume trails. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearancesThese for widths rest stops are orconsidered other trail amenity appropriate areas and comfortable for medium-volume trails. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
16 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 17 A Multi-use Trail Surface D Pedestrian-only Area 4 B Lateral Clearance E Separation Strip C Furnishing Zone F Landscape Buffer
vertical clearance Figure 4.06. high-capacity Figure 4.05. vertical clearance high-capacity trail trail conigu- coniguration with ration with pedestrian-only separated area/promenade/ pedestrian-only sidewalk area
C D * E A B C required corridor C D C F * C B A B C required corridor 0.6m1.7m 0.3m 3.0m 0.6m 0.6m total=6.8m minimum 0.6m 1.7m 0.6m 0.6m 0.6m 3.0m 0.6m 0.6m total=8.3m + F minimum 1.0m2.1m 0.6m 3.6m 1.0m 1.0m total=9.3m default
>1m >2.1m 0.6m >3.6m 1.0m >1m total>9.3m exemplary 1.0m 2.1m 1.0m 1.0m 1.0m 3.6m 1.0m 1.0m total=11.7m + F default
* Existing sidewalks Shademay be Tree retained at narrower widths in some situations. Shade Tree >1m>2.1m >1m >1m 1.0m>3.6m 1.0m >1m total>11.7m + F exemplary
* Where pavement is continuous between the pedestrian-only area and shared-use surfaces, a separation strip is required This coniguration is a useful option for resolving potential conlicts between pedestrians and cyclists, especially where within the lateral clearance zone (B) of the multi-use surface. Furnishing zone is to be maximized for the space available. pedestrians form an above-average proportion of the trail users,Interpretation and/or Signagewhere there is an attraction or frequent Interpretation Signage amenities along one side of the trail, . Waterfronts are good examples of situations where this coniguration would be This coniguration is a variant of the previous that is useful where a promenade is desired, but the continuous width is Fence not available, or where a grade difference may be present, for example. It could also be utilized as a design feature to Fence appropriate. 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance introduce more planting or a shared amenity space between the shared-use surface and the pedestrian-only surface. Trail Clearance It is possible to provide a promenade on either or both sides of aArea trail. of SpecialSuch a coniguration might be appropriate in a Area of Special heavily urbanized context where there are active building entrancesInterest on one side of a trail, and a roadway on the other Signage or pavement markings to designate the pedestrian-only area are discretionary. Note that the pedestrian Interest (especially where parking exists). area does not require a lateral clearance zone, and for surface, slope and edge conditions, refer to the following 1.0m min. sections. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance Signage or pavement markings to designate the pedestrian-only area are discretionary. Note that the pedestrian area Figure 3.08: Lateral clearancesdoes not for require rest stops a lateral or other clearance trail amenity zone, areas and for surface, slope and edge conditions, refer to the following sections. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
18 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 19 A Multi-use Trail Surface D Pedestrian-only Area 4 B Lateral Clearance E Bicycle-only Trail Surface C Furnishing Zone F Landscape Buffer
vertical clearance vertical clearance vertical clearance
Figure 4.08. high-capacity trail -- twinned coniguration
C D C F * C B E B C required C B A B C F C B A B C required corridor corridor
0.6m 2.1m 0.6m 0.6m 0.6m 2.7m 0.6m 0.6m total=8.4m + F minimum 0.6m 0.6m 3.0m 0.6m 0.6m 0.6m 0.6m 3.0m 0.6m 0.6m total=10.8m + F minimum Figure 4.07. high-capacity trail 1.0m 3.0m 1.0m 1.0m 1.0m 3.6m 1.0m 1.0m total=12.6m + F default 1.0m 1.0m 3.6m 1.0m 1.0m 1.0m 1.0m 3.6m 1.0m 1.0m total=15.2m + F default - segregated-use coniguration >1m 1.0m >3.6m 1.0m >1m >1m 1.0m>3.6m 1.0m >1m total>15.2m + F exemplary
maximum available >3.0m maximum available >1m 1.0m>4.5m 1.0m >1m total>13.5m + F exemplary Shade Tree Note: See chapter 5 for conditions where trails merge. Shade Tree * Consider physical separation such as tree planting, flexi bollards, fences, etc. This coniguration is a useful option for situations including but not limited to: This coniguration should be used rarely, and only in situations where signiicant conlicts between cyclists and Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage pedestrians cannot be resolved by less severe measures. • creating a “by-pass” to carry trail trafic around an area that is often used for special events;
The segregated-use trail is very similar to the previous twoFence conigurations, except that use of both surfaces is • accommodating a high density of users in a short length of trail where a single, wider trail is either not Fence 1.0m min. 1.0m min. restricted. ThisTrail allowsClearance a wider range of shared-use surface widths, and requires a wider pedestrian-only surface feasible or not desirable; or Trail Clearance than other conigurations. A landscaped buffer or some other,Area wider of Specialseparation is preferred in addition to signage Area of Special that communicates the segregated uses. Occasionally, a physicalInterest separation such as a fence or lexi-bollards may • separating higher-speed, utilitarian cyclists from recreational users (in which case, one of the twinned Interest be used, depending on the design and context. segments would be a “direct route” and the other would be the “scenic route.”) 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Each of the “twins” may have a distinct design condition within the ranges stated, and it is also possible for one or Bench Clearance Signage or pavement markings to designate the use of each area is optional. Note that the pedestrian area does both to make use of one of the other high-capacity conigurations. For surface, slope and edge conditions, refer to Figure 3.08: Lateral clearancesnot require for rest a lateral stops or clearance other trail zone,amenity and areas for surface, slope and edge conditions, refer to the following sections. the following sections. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
20 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 21 4.3 Trail Width and Surface 4.4. Trail Edge Conditions Lateral Furnishing Zone 4 Clearance 4.3.1. Trail Width 4.4.1. Lateral Clearances must remain minimum size will unobstructed accomodate For every class of multi-use trail there is a default, Separation strips may be any cane-detectable, visually Lateral clearances are areas to the side of the trail vertical elements minimum and exemplary width. In most cases there is (signs, lights, contrasting surface. Metal “tactile walking surface surface that improve safety conditions for trail users by trees); greater size no maximum. indicator” strips may be most preferable, but are not providing space for avoiding collisions, running off the permits wider range of elements necessarily feasible for long distances. Textured and/or trail, or falling -- all without risk of colliding with any ixed Because design consistency is preferable to a coloured concrete, or unit pavers may be more suitable object. Figure 4.10. frequently shifting design condition, trail designers in many situations. 0.6m min. 0.6m min. dimensions of 1.0m default 1.0m default should seek a balance between optimal trail conditions Lateral clearance areas are designed, constructed and trail clearances and site constraints. Widths below minimum should Surfaces for stairs, ramps and bridges are discussed in maintained free from any obstruction. The surface >1.0m not >1.0m only be used for short distances where some physical a later chapter. recommended recommended is usually a different material but shall always be where possible constraint is present that cannot be overcome (bridge continuous with the trail surface. It should meet the width of trail abutments, for example). In this situation, warning same cross-slope requirements as the trail surface, and signs, and/or trail calming measures should be (to top of tamped edge) where it connects to trail-side amenities it shall also implemented. 1 meet appropriate accessibility requirements. Note: Where minimum clearances are not possible, mitigation measures such as warning signage, or trail calming are required. Figure 4.09. 2 5 Greater clearances are not recommended except where they The preferred lateral clearance for any class of multi- may be helpful to mitigate other conditions (such as tight turns). typical trail 3 6 construction 4.3.2. Trail Surface use trail is 1.0 metre; anything less than this should The preferred surface for all multi-use or cyclist-only be provided with warning signage or other mitigation solid white line should mark the boundary of the trail’s 7 surfaces is asphalt. Any irm, durable, hard surface measures; wider lateral clearance areas are not functional width, and all requirements for the lateral that conforms to accessibility requirements may 4 recommended. clearance zone must be met. Consideration may be be investigated during design. These may include given to using a cane-detectable, visually-contrasting The minimum lateral clearance for any class of surface to improve accessibility conditions. concrete, pre-cast unit pavers, or specialty surfaces 1 Surface is usually cross-sloped in the same direction such as “TerraElast” (a proprietary, epoxy-based, porous as adjacent grades, to 2% maximum; crowned paths multi-use trail is 0.60 metres; in all cases, utilization pavement material). Granular surfaces, including those may occasionally be appropriate of the minimum dimension should be justiied by the 4.4.2. Furnishing Zone Shade Tree presence of some constraint that cannot be reasonably Shade Tree that are chemically stabilized are not recommended. 2 Asphalt pavement is usually 2 layers: coarse layer below, fine layer above overcome, such as large trees or existing structures. The minimum prescribed furnishing zone allows for Pedestrian-only areas may also be any irm, vertical elements such as signs, lights and trees, while 3 Compacted granular base may be single or multiple Where rest stops or other trail amenity areas are a wider zone allows for other kinds of furnishings, durable, hard surface that conforms to accessibility layers of a range of possible materials requirements. Asphalt is generally preferred, however Interpretation Signage present, lateral clearances should include the amenities, public art or other improvements. Interpretation Signage 4 Existing sub soils shall be scarified and compacted cumulative width requirements for the trail, and for the (Furnishings are discussed in a later chapter.) In where the pedestrian-only area is near the multi-use before placing the granular base trail, a distinct surface such as concrete, unit pavers or Fence rest stop, such as leg-space for a bench. Designers restricted corridors where default or minimum Fence 1.0m min. should consider providing a wider lateral clearance for a dimensions are used, designers should consider 1.0m min. boardwalk is Trailpreferable Clearance to reinforce the pedestrian-only 5 Adjacent surfaces shall be level with the pavement Trail Clearance distance approaching the rest stop from each direction, occasional shifts of the trail alignment to permit both condition. Where the pedestrian-only area is a sidewalk 6Area Theof Special edge of the pavement shall be neatly tamped to Area of Special or within a road right-of-way, concrete is the preferred Interest45 degrees and paving this area to allow trail users to slow down furnishing zones to be located on one side of the trail, Interest surface. In some situations, granular surfaces (granite, and pull off of the trail. which will permit a greater range of furnishing choices. 1.0m min. 7 The granular base shall extend at least 200mm Where continuous obstructions are present on one or 1.0m min. limestone, or clay)Bench may Clearance be acceptable, provided that beyond the trail edge Bench Clearance they meet accessibility guidelines. Lateral clearances do Shoulders are an extension of the travelled surface both sides of the trail, this condition should be limited to Note: All layers shall be parallel to the desired finished slope into the lateral clearance zone. Where they are used, a approximately 20 metres or less. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearancesnot apply for torest pedestrian-only stops or other trail areas. amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
22 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 23 4.4.3. Continuous Obstructions Given a 2.0m or greater clearance from the slope, 4 No guard is recommended if: Occasionally, some continuous element will exist or be In natural areas, new and existing trails may be Slope is less than 2:1, or required to run parallel to the trail. These may include constrained by vegetation that cannot be removed. 2.0m Height difference is less than 0.6 metres fences, guards, walls, hedges, or other elements. When If lateral clearances cannot be achieved in these the length of such an element exceeds approximately situations, then appropriate mitigation measures 20 metres, it is considered a continuous edge should be implemented for both trail user safety and >0.6m obstruction. This would include sections of trail on environmental protection. bridges or elevated structures. Slopes and drop-offs that run parallel to a trail should It is recommended that continuous edge obstructions be treated in the same way as a continuous edge should be 2 metres from the trail. As a result, the obstruction, and kept 2 metres away from the trail. 2.0m Given a 2.0m or greater clearance from the slope, furnishing zone would generally be considered to be Where the slope exceeds 2:1 or 50%, and is higher than Guard is recommended if: the entire space between the lateral clearance and the 0.6 metres, a guard should be provided. If the slope or Slope is 2:1 or greater, and obstruction. Items generally found within the furnishing drop-off must be less than 2.0 metres away, is in excess Height difference is 0.6 metres or greater zone may be located within this area. of 1:6 or 16.7%, and is higher than 0.6 metres, a guard should also be provided. The igure to the left outlines Figure 4.11. 0.6m Where the full 2 metre distance cannot be provided, these requirements. slopes or or greater some form of mitigation is recommended. Figure 4.12. drop-offs shows the preferred approach. This is appropriate in Where drop-offs or slopes provide views or some type parallel to trail natural areas where a minimal impact is desired, for of attraction, designers should consider treating that example. section of the trail with a high-capacity coniguration that features a pedestrian promenade, which does not <2.0m Given a clearance less than 2.0m from the slope, Trail calming measures or trail narrowing may be require any separation from continuous obstructions Guard is recommended if: considered in addition to the choke feature and warning (but does require separation from unprotected slopes Slope is 16.7% (1:6) and greater than 0.6 metres, or signs, but should not replace them. over 0.6m). Drop off is greater than 0.2 metres in height
>0.2m Reflective hazard signs Shade Tree Clearance Figure 4.12. Shade Tree Surface may vary and can include Necessary when clearance is <2m asphalt, concrete, lawn, or unit example of Choke feature clearance and The minimum height of pavers. Flush transition required. At termination of fence to beyond 2.0 metres from the trail mitigation for guards shall be 1.37m Edge marking 2.0m trails with edge preferred Interpretation Signage obstruction Interpretation Signage Gaps in guards shall Fence be less than 0.1m or Fence 1.0m min. Where slope or drop-off provides a view, 1.0m min. Trail Clearance greater than 0.3m Trail Clearance consider promenade configuration separation separation strip promenade Area of Special Area of Special Interest 2.0m Interest or greater <2.0m 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance Warning Sign Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas 10 to 15 metres Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas before fence
24 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 25 WITH EXISTING SIDEWALK 4.4.4. Curb-side Zone 4.5. Vertical Clearances
Where paths are adjacent to roadways, the furnishing 4 Where one or both sides of the proposed trail corridor Vertical clearances for all parts of all trail conigurations zone may be treated differently, and is referred to as Trail Surface Separation Strip: are to be fenced or blocked by some other continuous shall start at a default height of 3.0 metres. The consider using the curb-side zone. This area is used for loading and barrier, at least 2.0 metres should be provided on either minimum that should be considered is 2.5 metres. additional width for unloading, for the placement of signs and streetlights, future sidewalk side of the trail. expansion where and for street furnishings and tree plantings. In the applicable vertical clearanceThis area should be kept free of all woody vegetation winter it becomes a snow storage area. The preceding recommendations will provide only for with branches or twigs over 0.02 metres, as well as any a minimal total facility, even where default dimensions hanging elements such as lights in an underpass. The pedestrian clearway portion of the sidewalk is are used. Provision of a wider corridor wherever preferred to be 2.1 metres, while the minimum is possible will allow for the development of better and Where an overhead obstruction lower than 2.5 metres considered to be 1.7 metres. as exists more attractive trails and public spaces for the city. cannot be avoided, warning signs must be placed ahead (no change) of the obstruction. If it is a constructed element such as Where a sidewalk exists, the trail designer may provide an underpass or gateway, a relective warning should be the required separation strip between the trail and placed overhead, at the entrance to the obstruction. NO EXISTING SIDEWALK : existing sidewalk. If the sidewalk is less than the DEFAULT CONDITION preferred width, it can be widened, or space can be left A Bicycle Trail Surface for future widening. Building the separation strip next to an existing, narrower sidewalk may occasionally be B Lateral Clearance Trail Surface where possible, leave Figure 4.13. 3.0 metres or greater unavoidable. C Furnishing Zone curb-side for future sidewalk D Pedestrian-only Area zones development Where no sidewalk exists, the trail is preferably located to allow for a future sidewalk installation, which would require a minimum of 3.0 metres from the curb to the For pedestrian- For multi-use or only areas, bicycle only edge of the shared-use surface. Where no sidewalk is vertical clearance surfaces, lateral planned, the trail may be located 1.5 metres from the applies only to clearance areas travelled surface require full curb, which includes a 0.6 metre lateral clearance and vertical clearance 3.0m or greater Shade Tree a 0.9 metre curb-side zone. Smaller dimensions are Shade Tree discouraged, but may be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on site constraints. NO EXISTING SIDEWALK : CONSTRAINED SITES ONLY Where a trail is planned in a restricted corridor, the 3.0 m default Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage corridor should be wide enough to accommodate the 2.5 m minimum planned trail surface as well as appropriate lateral Figure 4.14. Fence Fence 1.0m min. clearances and furnishing zones. vertical 1.0m min. Trail Clearance clearances Trail Clearance Trail Surface If theArea of character Special of the proposed corridor includes Area of Special steeperInterest running slopes or frequent tight turns, Interest additional widths should be sought to allow for the C D C C B A B C 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance implementation of mitigating measures. Bench Clearance
Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas 1.5m min 26 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 27 4.6. Slopes From these, stopping sight distances and minimum turning radii are calculated as follows: 4 Reflective Due to accessibility requirements, running slopes on Superelevation (increased cross-slopes through curves) • At 20 km/h the stopping sight distance is 21 metres trails should be limited to 5%, and cross-slopes should is sometimes used as a justiication to provide a tighter Material and the minimum turning radius is 10 metres be limited to 2% (including crowned conigurations). turning radius. Accessibility requirements restrict cross- 1.0m slopes to 2%, thus eliminating superelevation as an • At 30 km/h the stopping sight distance is 35 metres Pressure Where a running slope greater than 5% cannot be option for multi-use trail design. and the minimum turning radius is 20 metres Treated avoided, designers should consult with stakeholders Wood Figure 4.16. and use their best judgement to determine which of the The preferred turning radius for all multi-use trails is 20 metres. Where running slopes are less than 3%, no maintenance following two options is preferred: markers for curve 4.7. Curves mitigation is required. Install with equal spacing clearances of approx. 6 meters • design the sloped segment to be continuous with between markers adjacent sections of trail, adding mitigation measures 4.7.1. Stopping Sight Distances and Where space is restricted, a lower turning radius such as warning signage; or may be used, to a minimum of 10 metres. In these Minimum Turning Radii situations, warning signage and trail widening is • design the segment as a grade-separation, in required. accordance with the guidance set out in section 7.2 Stopping sight distance is the distance required for a 4.7.2. Open Sightline Zone trail user to decelerate to a full stop from a given speed. of this document. This would accommodate a wider Where running slopes on or near the curve are more The open sightline zone is a space on the inside portion range of possible strategies, such as stairs, ramps than 3%, warning signage and trail widening are of a curve—including at intersections—that is meant The primary determinant for setting the minimum radius and/or switchbacks. required. to be kept free of signiicant obstructions within the and related characteristics for curves in trail design is approximate eye-level range of trail users, or from the stopping sight distance. Factors affecting this are Where a running slope steeper than 5% cannot be approximately 0.6m to 2.0m height. Lateral clearance areas should match the slope of the the design user’s characteristics, design speed (which avoided, a more detailed engineering analysis of curves trail, and should also not exceed 2%. Furnishing zones varies with slope) and friction. The design user in this should be undertaken. Wider radii or other mitigation The open sightline zone is determined by the sight- that are intended to be occupied should also adhere to a case is a typical cyclist. Design speeds of 20 and 30 measures can be implemented, as well as accessibility stopping distance and the radius of the curve. It should 2% maximum. Any area outside of the lateral clearance, km/h are considered. but within 2 metres of the shared-use surface should improvements such as warning signage and alternate allow a trail user to see obstacles or other users in the not exceed a downward slope of 16.7% (1:6), but may routes. path ahead and stop completely before reaching them. include a steeper uphill slope. Shade Tree Shade Tree On all curves, a wider lateral clearance shall be Signs, high-branching trees, light poles or other narrow, Lateral Furnishing Clearance Zone maintained, as shown on the illustrations that follow. In vertical elements are compatible with this space, as is natural areas, marker posts are recommended at the low vegetation. Multi-stemmed or, low-branching trees, Interpretation Signage limit of the clear space to assist with maintenance of especially conifers, are not. Where vegetation can be Interpretation Signage Figure 4.15. the cleared area. Extensive clearing of all vegetation is cleared, the boundary of the area to be cleared should maximum 2% max* 16.7% (1:6) max see Figure 4.11 2% max Fence discouraged in favour of occasional, selective clearing be marked as shown in igure 4.16, to ensure consistent Fence cross-slopes 1.0m min. of woody vegetation over 0.6m height. Alternately, maintenance practices. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance mitigation measures such as warning signage or trail Area of Special Area of Special Interest calming may be considered. In natural areas, clearing the open sightline zone may Interest not always be appropriate, in which case warning * Slope of the lateral clearance area should match that of the trail surface 1.0m min. This section does not apply to grade separations signage and possibly trail calming measures should be 1.0m min. Bench Clearance forming trail accesses, which are dealt with separately introduced. Bench Clearance in section 7.2. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
28 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 29 4.7.3. Typical Trail Curve Conigurations curve minimum : 30cm The coniguration to the widening preferred : 50cm right and associated 4 The three igures on these pages show three different, mitigation measures are edge of minimum typical scenarios for the design of curves in trails. The designed to address curve open sightline zone various combinations of trail geometry and supplemental radii from 10m up to 20m. maintenance A B measures are a toolkit that is capable of addressing most Curves tighter than 10m markers situations. 10m SHARP SHARP should be subjected to a TURN TURN Figure 4.18. more detailed engineering 3.4m 4.6m horizontal The more generous, wider curve shown below is intended analysis. curves: 20 as the irst option for designers. The designs on the facing 10m Radius km/h bicycle page are intended to address situations where space is 1m preferred design speed - 20 km/h speed lateral clearance limited or where slopes are present, respectively. - running slope = less than 3% sightline with mitigation - coefficient of friction = 0.25 obstruction measures The coniguration to the - stopping sight distance of 21m right and associated A B mitigation measures are designed to address Figure 3.11: Horizontal curves: 20 km/h bicycle design speed with mitigation measures running slopes from 3% to 5%. Steeper slopes should be subjected to a Figure 4.17. more detailed engineering open horizontal sightline minimum : 30cm analysis. zone curve curves: widening preferred : 50cm 30 km/h bicycle design speed with no mitigation edge of minimum edge of minimum Figure 4.19. open sightline zone open sightline zone measures 20m 20m horizontal curves: 30 Shade Tree km/h bicycle Shade Tree 4.2m 4.2m design speed 7m with mitigation maintenance 7m maintenance markers A measures markers 11m Interpretation Signage 11m Interpretation Signage
Fence Fence 1m preferred 1.0m min. 1m preferred 20m Radius 1.0m min. lateral clearance Trail Clearance lateral clearance - 30 km/h speed Trail Clearance Area of Special - running slope = 3-5% Area of Special Interest - coefficient of friction = 0.25 Interest 20m Radius - stopping sight distance of 39m 1.0m min. sightline obstruction - 30 km/h speed sightline obstruction 1.0m min. Bench Clearance - running slope = less than 3% Bench Clearance - coefficient of friction = 0.25 A A Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas - stopping sight distance of 35m Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
30 TorontoFigure Multi-Use 3.12: Trail Design Horizontal Guidelines curves: 30 km/h bicycle design speed with no mitigation measures Figure 3.13: Horizontal curves: 30 km/h bicycle design speed with mitigationToronto Multi-Use Trailmeasures Design Guidelines 31 4.8. Existing, Non-conforming 4 Trails Throughout the City’s network of multi-use trails, examples can be found of facilities that in some substantial way do not conform to the recommendations of these guidelines. In some cases, the non-conforming qualities are a deining characteristic of those facilities. An example of this is the Kay Gardner Beltline Trail which is surfaced with “trap rock,” a sand material made from crushing and sieving granite. Although this material is not recommended in this guideline for use on any new multi-use trails, this guideline does not recommend that the Beltline be converted to some other surface. The trap rock surface is a deining characteristic of the trail. Any such changes should be reviewed through consultation with trail users and the local community.
Being a non-conforming facility may limit how this or any trail could be classiied. Even where several factors may suggest a more intensive development, these non-conforming qualities should be weighed against opposing factors. Where the situation of such a facility changes to such an extent that intensiication seems necessary due to user demand, an observed spike in user volumes, high seasonal or pedestrian Non-conforming “trap rock” surfacing uses, reported conlicts, or other reasons, it is strongly material at the Kay Gardner Beltline Trail Shade Tree Shade Tree recommended that changes be carefully considered in consultation with stakeholders, users and the public.
Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage
Fence Fence 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance Area of Special Area of Special Interest Interest
1.0m min. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance
Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
32 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines A runner on the Humber Bay Bridge, as seen from the Humber Trail below 5 Trail Crossings The primary objective of multi-use trail crossing design is to provide a safe and direct crossing for trail users. This chapter provides designers with detailed conigurations for intersections of trails with other trails, roadways, and driveways in a variety of situations, and provides criteria for choosing the most appropriate coniguration.
This chapter is divided into three sections that relect Trail crossings are excellent opportunities to provide the three broad categories of crossings that will be amenities such as rest areas or infoboards. Typically, encountered: trail intersections, roadway crossings, these should be located around the edge of the and crossings of driveways and park roads. intersection, and should not interfere with the open sightline zones. Each section provides a range of useful scenarios and describes the various elements that make up a Trails should intersect each other at 90-degrees successful crossing: surface treatments, signage and wherever possible. signals, open sightline zones, etc. As trail crossing angles move away from 90-degrees, In most cases, especially with regard to roadway sightlines and turning radii are affected. The result crossings, these guidelines follow the guidance of the is either that these are compromised, or that open Ontario Trafic Manual Book 18 - Cycling Facilities.1 sightline areas take up signiicant amounts of space. Where minor divergences are proposed, they are noted Whenever possible, realigning pathways as close as as such. possible to 90 degrees should be considered. In doing so, however, turning radii should be kept a safe distance 5.1. Trail Intersections away from the crossing, and should be designed in the manner described in the previous chapter. Shade Tree When multi-use trails cross each other, the primary goal Shade Tree is to prevent collisions between users. This is achieved The following igure provides a graphic description of by designing trails with the appropriate alignments and the preferred, less preferred and discouraged crossing sightlines, and by providing appropriate warnings to trail alignments. Interpretation Signage users when necessary. YES - BEST YES - LIMIT Figure 5.01. Interpretation Signage alignments for trail crossings Fence A secondary goal is to ensure that trail users can navigate Fence 1.0m min. through the crossing easily. This is achieved by good 1.0m min. Trail Clearance 90 Trail Clearance trail design and reinforced by wayinding design and sign 60 Area of Special Area of Special Interest placement within the crossing coniguration. Interest
1.0m min. All of these considerations are incorporated into the 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance designs presented in this section. <60 Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas NO YES Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas 1 http://www.otc.org/research/download-manuals/ Signalized crossingToronto Multi-Use of Lawrence Trail Design Avenue Guidelines East on the Don Mills Trail Figure 3.34: alignmentsToronto for Multi-Use trail crossings Trail Design Guidelines 35 Each of the three igures on the right shows a range of For crossings of different classes or sizes of trails, the The greater emphasis of warning signage should face the smaller design for a T-intersection. This is illustrated common elements or measures: smaller facility should always be transitioned to match facility, as the likelihood is greater of encountering faster or more below. 5 the larger, which should be considered the through- trafic on the larger trail. • The minimum open sightline zone at the crossing facility. Where there are alignment, grade or surfacing The advice given previously with regard to and the minimum lateral clearance of the linear trail differences, the transition should occur on the smaller In most situations, following the guidance provided above, but emphasis of warning signage, can also be are shown as a continuous light green colour. trail, in the area marked “transition area.” removing the fourth leg of the crossing, will result in a good applied to the third-branch of a T-intersection. • The preferred open sightline zone is shown as a dashed line at 45-degrees to the crossing trails. Figure 5.02. 1 1 1 Figure 5.03. crossing of crossing of two trails of • The centre line, broken elsewhere, is shown two trails 2 2 2 similar width continuous in the vicinity of the crossing. 15m pref. of different 10m min widths 12m min** 3m • Wayinding signs are shown for trail users approaching 3 3 3 and leaving from each branch of the crossing. • An enhanced surface is shown within the crossings Figure 5.04. 9 --this is discretionary. This is typically used where sightline open zone T-intersection added visibility or improved aesthetics are desirable. of two trails Various patterns or solid colours may be considered, but all must be non-slip and accessible.
10 4 R=10m min* R=10m min* 11 4 4 R=10m min*
5 5 8 8 5 6 6 6 Shade Tree Shade Tree 7 7 7
Notes for igures 5.02, 5.03 and 5.04 1 InterpretationMulti-use trailSignage 6 Dashed line should not be present within intersection 10 Transition zone - same material as larger trail, no centre Interpretation Signage as defined by outer limit of the radius, except where line unless present on smaller trail 2FenceUnobstructed sightline area enhanced surface treatment extends beyond that point Fence 1.0m min. Crossing approach - same width and material as larger 1.0m min. Trail Clearance 11 Trail Clearance 3 Marking posts 7 Wayfinding sign, installed beyond the unobstructed trail, centre line present unless absent from larger trail Area of Special Area of Special Interest sightline area Interest 4 Curves should be located beyond the unobstructed * Where radius is increased above 10 metres, 1.0m min. sightline area 8 Wayfinding and warning signs on common post, unobstructed sightline area should be adjusted to match 1.0m min. Intersection of FinchBench HydroClearance Corridor Trail and a installed in advance of unobstructed sightline area Bench Clearance secondary trail in G Ross Lord Park - secondary 5 Consider enhanced surface treatments (solid colour NOTE: the impressed surface is optional, but is trail has been aligned to intersect at 90-degrees Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas paint, textured and coloured asphalt, etc.) 9 Smaller multi-use trail or other facility recommended for high-use trails Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
36 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 37 Merging trails should generally be avoided, as described at the beginning of 5 this section. Site constraints or other conditions--such as the beginning or ending of “twinned” trails, for example--are possible situations where an oblique T-intersection of two trails may be called for. The igure below illustrates how this should be conigured.
Note that the open sightline zone between diverging trails is a critical element towards reducing possible conlicts between trail users approaching the crossing from the two separate branches of the “twinned” trail.
As with previous conigurations, wayinding signage is provided for users entering or exiting the crossing by each branch.
Figure 5.05. B lateral clearance for two merging wayfinding sign trails
Trail-trail crossing with enhanced surface A park path merging with the Gatineau Hydro lateral treatment at Marie Curtis Park Corridor Trail near Thomson Memorial Park clearance lateral clearance wayfinding and warning sings (optional, typical) A E F C D Shade Tree Shade Tree lateral clearance
A Width as required for primary trail or better Interpretation Signage A Width as required for primary trail or better Interpretation Signage B Width as required for primary trail or better (not necessarily equal to A ) B Width as required for primary trail or better (not necessarily equal to A ) C Width as required for high-capacity trail (and at least as wide as or wider than A or B ) Fence C Width as required for high-capacity trail (and at least as wide as or wider than A or B ) Fence 1.0m min. D Merge distance determined by angle of approaching trail segments (10m minimum) 1.0m min. Trail Clearance D Merge distance determined by angle of approaching trail segments (10m minimum) Trail Clearance Area of Special EE PavePave gore gore areaarea to at least thethe point point where where lateral lateral clearances clearances intersect intersect Area of Special Interest Interest F OpenOpen sightline sightline zone within goregore to to be be at at least least 21 21 metres metres from from merge merge point; point; signage signage and and F trees can be located within the area if they do not constitute a significant sightline obstruction 1.0m min. trees can be located within the area if they do not constitute a significant sightline obstruction 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance
Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas T-intersection at the Gatineau Hydro Corridor TrailToronto near PharmacyMulti-Use Trail Avenue Design Guidelines Merging trails at Marilyn Bell Park Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 39 5.2. Crossing Roads 5.2.1 Pavement Markings Crossride is the term used for the markings that carry trail or cycling facilities across roadways and through 5 Pavement markings in roadway crossings serve primarily intersections. There are four basic options Where trails cross roads, road operations must continue to provide the crossing with enhanced visibility for to function as planned and in accordance with the motorists. • mixed crossride Highway Trafic Act (HTA).1 All of the proposed crossing designs in this section should be applied only in The HTA does not provide speciic requirements for • combined crossride consultation with qualiied staff. 0.4m 0.4m motorist behaviour in association with the various • separated crossride crossing markings that will be discussed here. Instead, Figure 5.06. Preferably, trail alignments are directed towards existing motor vehicles are controlled by a separate system of • asymmetrical separated crossride min mixed intersections where the crossing can be integrated into signs, signals and markings. The markings shown in 4.0m crossride the existing operations. This is not always possible, and this section serve primarily to direct trail users, and as The mixed crossride is the simplest option. It is situations will occur where trails cross roads at mid- 0.4m a secondary beneit provide a higher level of visibility for comprised of “elephant’s feet” markings with symbols textured & block locations. Both of these scenarios are included in coloured trail users crossing roadways. inside. All trail users share the space. pavement coloured this section. coating pavement coating Provincial guidelines suggest assigning trail users space on the right side by positioning the symbols but not by Figure 5.07. use of a separation line. The symbols are discretionary, enhancement however, and0.4m it may 0.4m be preferable in some situations to options for reduce visual clutter by using only the directional arrows. mixed cross- rides minEnhanced options for the mixed crossride are 4.0m recommended for situations where additional visibility or aesthetic enhancement 0.4m is desired. These are also suitable for non-roadway crossings, such as those that coloured textured & pavement coloured are discussed at the end of this chapter. coating pavement coating
Shade Tree The combined crossride is comprised of “elephant’s Shade Tree 0.4m 0.4m feet” markings with “zebra stripe” markings inside. elephant’s feet Figure 5.08. Pedestrians are intended to make use of the central combined 1.5m min. zebra stripe area, and cyclists to use the outer parts. crossride Interpretation Signage 5.0m 2.0m min.* comprised of Interpretation Signage It is more visible than the simple mixed crossride and min. zebra stripes and elephant’s Fence will mostly be used at mid-block locations with low to 1.5m min. 0.6m 0.6m Fence 1.0m min. 0.4m feet 1.0m min. Trail Clearance moderate volumes of trail users. It may occasionally be Trail Clearance Area of Special appropriate for intersections where sidewalk and trail Area of Special Interest users mix, and where user volumes are low. * OTM Book 18 recommends a minimum 2.5 metres width Interest for the zebra strip in this crossride. Signalized crossing1.0m of min. Midland Avenue on the Finch Hydro Corridor Trail 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance 1 http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/html/statutes/english/elaws_statutes_90h08_e.htm Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
40 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 41 The separated crossride consists of “elephant’s feet” 5 markings in the centre, surrounded by “zebra stripe” markings on both sides. In this coniguration, cyclists elephant’s feet are intended to use the centre part, and pedestrians the zebra stripe outside. Figure 5.09. separated 0.3m This is intended for use at mid-block locations where crossride 2.5m- comprised of 3.0m trail user volumes are high, and usually where sidewalks double zebra 0.4m are present. It is not used at intersections in Toronto. stripes and 2.5m min elephant’s feet Improved visibility is an added beneit, making this a 0.6m 0.6m suitable choice for signalized mid-block crossings of high-speed and high volume roadways.
The asymmetrical separated crossride is Toronto’s Figure 5.10. 0.4m 0.4m asymmetrical most widely-used crossing type and is appropriate for 0.4m many signalized intersections, and some all way stop separated 2.5m- crossride 3.0m controlled intersections as well. comprised of elephant’s feet Gatineau Hydro Corridor Trail crossing two branches of the McCowan Avenue (background) and zebra stripes 0.3m This crossride consists of “elephant’s feet” markings in St. Andrews Road (foreground) intersection using asymmetrical, separated crossrides and elephant’s 2.5m zebra stripe the on one side and “zebra stripe” markings on the other. feet min The zebra stripes and elephant’s feet should be aligned 5.2.2. Crossing Roads at Intersections 0.6m 0.6m with the appropriate facility—typically the “zebra stripes” with the sidewalk and the “elephant’s feet” with the trail. Trail crossings at roadway intersections are deined Each coniguration illustrates the relative placements of by whether the intersection is signalized or stop different elements related to the crossing: crossrides, Shade Tree Many examples exist in Toronto (as seen in the photos in controlled, and further by the position of the trail painted lines and symbols, signs, signals, and other Shade Tree this section) where this crossride has been installed with and sidewalk (if present) relative to the edge of the elements that would be present. bicycle symbols, however that coniguration will no longer roadway. The volume and speed of the roadway and be used. the user volume of the trail may also inluence the The conigurations provided cross only one branch of 1.2m 1.2m 1.2m 1.2m Interpretation Signage choice of coniguration. Uncontrolled intersections are the intersection. Trails occasionally cross two branches Interpretation Signage Word markings will be seen on the trail in the approach not treated here. Crossrides should not be included at of intersections, as seen in the photo above. Design of Figure 5.11. to many of the crossing conigurations. The two examples uncontrolled intersections. such a two-stage crossing is, for the most part, a matter pavement 1.0m 1.0m 1.0m 1.0m Fence Fence ROAD1.0mROAD min. SLOW SLOW at left are used in Toronto, and others may be possible of applying the above conigurations to two adjacent 1.0m min. word markings Trail Clearance Trail Clearance depending on site-speciic needs. These should all be The irst three igures in this section are divided left- branches of an intersection, while minding the relation 1.5m 1.5m Area of Special Area of Special brief andInterest clear, and should use short words. Where a right to show how the trail crossing would be conigured to and crossing of adjacent pedestrian sidewalks. Interest 1.0m 1.0m universally accepted symbol exists, it should be used in when the sidewalk is next to the curb (left) or when a AHEADAHEAD1.0m min. place of word markings. boulevard is present (right). The inal igure describes a 1.0m min. Bench Clearance roadway without a sidewalk, where these variations are Bench Clearance More information about these and other pavement not required. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas markings is included in chapter 7. 42 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 43
AHEAD AHEAD
SIDEWALK ADJACENT BOULEVARD BETWEEN ROAD ROAD TO CURB SIDEWALK AND CURB trail centre TRAIL CROSSING AT INTERSECTION line shall be (signalized example with ASYMMETRICAL solid within 5 SEPARATED crossride) G 10m of stop bar at crossings This coniguration consists of an asymmetrical separated A pedestrian crossride serving parallel multi-use trail and sidewalk signal (typical) facilities. It includes: multi-use CYCLISTS STOP trail (typical) HERE B B ON bicycle • bicycle signals (trail) and pedestrian signals RED SIGNAL signal C (sidewalk) optional(typical) optional E • stop bars for trail users located behind the sidewalk C 4 • solid centre line approaching the crossing 4 sidewalk F • warning and wayinding signage descriptions and LEFTKEEPRIGHT placements D 3 boulevard 2 min This is the most frequently used crossing coniguration KEEP 1 15m for signalized intersections in Toronto. E RIGHT LEFT
Signalized crossing of Sentinel Road on the Finch offset varies This coniguration is appropriate for any signalized Hydro Corridor Trail with separated crossride 1 crossing where both trail and sidewalk are present.
F boulevard CROSSING Shade Tree Shade Tree 4 5 sidewalk
1 Asymmetrical separated crossride (see Figure 5.10.) G 1m 4 stop bar B C 2 Tactile walking surface indicator and flush curb, match width of crosswalk/crossrideInterpretation Signage (typical) (typical) D Interpretation Signage
SLOW Figure 5.12. 3 Curb transition (typically 1.2 metres) WATCH FOR TURNING min trail crossing at
Fence H VEHICLES 0.6m Fence 1.0m min. intersection (signalized 1.0m min. 4 PedestrianTrail crossing Clearance configurations are drawn in accordance with Toronto Technical Standards drawings optional Trail Clearance 5-10m 15m example with Area of Special asymmetrical Area of Special 5 Boulevard area forming part of trail crossing may be concrete, asphalt,Interest or any other hard surface Interest conforming to accessibility requirements; where sufficient space exists in the boulevard for a bicycle to stop, separated crossride) a waiting area should be provided, with the stop bar located near the curb (see Figure 5.16, upper right) A 1.0m min. 1.0m min. 6 Optional warningBench text Clearance painted on trail (see Figure 5.11.) Bench Clearance Figure 3.08: Lateral clearancesNOTE: Where for rest bicycle stops andor other other trail signals amenity are positionedareas close together, they should be mounted on a single pole. H Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas for diagrammatic purposes; roadways ROAD ROAD are not drawn
Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines sidewalk sidewalk Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 6 boulevard 45 44 accurately AHEAD AHEAD AHEAD
SIDEWALK ADJACENT BOULEVARD BETWEEN AHEAD ROAD TO CURB SIDEWALK AND CURB ROAD TRAIL CROSSING AT INTERSECTION (signalized example with COMBINED crossride) trail centre line shall be solid within 5 E 10m of stop bar A This coniguration consists of a combined crossride This coniguration is appropriate for a signalized crossing at crossings serving parallel multi-use trail and sidewalk facilities. It where both trail and sidewalk are present in very close optional CYCLISTS includes: proximity, and where user volumes are low on both the STOP trail and the sidewalk. It may be more suitable for roads HERE B ON pedestrian multi-use • bicycle signals (trail, discretionary) and pedestrian with lower speeds and volumes, or for secondary trail RED signal SIGNAL (typical) trail (typical) signals (sidewalk) types. • stop bars for trail users located behind the The bicycle signal is considered discretionary because C bicycle sidewalk the trail users may be served by the pedestrian signal. signal (typical) 4 • solid centre line approaching the crossing 4 sidewalk • warning and wayinding signage descriptions and placements D 3 D boulevard CROSSING 2 min 1 15m E 1 offset varies
SLOW WATCH FOR TURNING F VEHICLES optional boulevard
Shade Tree Shade Tree 1 Combined crossride (see Figure 5.08.) 4 5 sidewalk 2 Tactile walking surface indicator and flush curb, match width of crosswalk/crossride (typical) 4 1m 3 Curb transition (typically 1.2 metres) B C Interpretation Signage Figure 5.13. Interpretation Signage trail crossing at 4 Pedestrian crossing configurations are drawn in accordance with Toronto Technical Standards drawings stop bar Fence (typical) intersection Fence 5 Boulevard1.0m area min. forming part of trail crossing may be concrete, asphalt, or any other hard surface (signalized 1.0m min. conformingTrail to Clearance accessibility requirements; where sufficient space exists in the boulevard for a bicycle to stop, example with Trail Clearance a waiting area should be provided, with the stop bar located near Areathe curbof Special (see Figure 5.16, upper right) combined Area of Special Interest min Interest 0.6m crossride) 5-10m 6 Optional warning text painted on trail (see Figure 5.11.) 15m 1.0m min. A 1.0m min. 7 Visually contrastingBench cane-detectable Clearance surface (such as tactile walking surface) where separation is less than 1.0 metre Bench Clearance
Figure 3.08: Lateral clearancesNOTE: Where for rest bicycle stops andor other road trail signals amenity are positioned areas close together, they should be mounted on a single pole. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas for diagrammatic purposes; roadways ROAD 7 6 ROAD are not drawn F
Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines sidewalk sidewalk Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 46 boulevard 47 accurately AHEAD AHEAD
AHEAD
AHEAD SIDEWALK ADJACENT BOULEVARD BETWEEN
ROAD ROAD TO CURB SIDEWALK AND CURB trail centre TRAIL CROSSING AT INTERSECTION line shall be (all way stop controlled example with solid within 10m of stop 5 ASYMMETRICAL SEPARATED crossride) bar at crossings This coniguration consists of an asymmetrical separated crossride serving parallel multi-use trail and sidewalk facilities. It includes: multi-use trail (typical) • “Yield” sign facing trail users A • NO stop bars for trail users
• solid centre line approaching the crossing 4 • warning and wayinding signage descriptions and B 4 sidewalk placements CROSSING B
3 boulevard SLOW This coniguration is appropriate for any stop-controlled WATCH FOR C TURNING crossing where both trail and sidewalk are present. VEHICLES 2 optional optional min 1 15m
D 1 offset varies
boulevard
Shade Tree Shade Tree 4 5 sidewalk 4
Interpretation Signage D Figure 5.14. Interpretation Signage 1 Combined crossride (see Figure 5.08.) trail crossing at min
0.6m intersection (all way Fence Fence 2 Tactile walking1.0m min.surface indicator and flush curb, match width of crosswalk/crossride (typical) stop controlled 1.0m min. Trail Clearance 5-10m example with Trail Clearance 3 Curb transition (typically 1.2 metres) 15m Area of Special asymmetrical Area of Special Interest A Interest 4 Pedestrian crossing configurations are drawn in accordance with Toronto Technical Standards drawings separated crossride) 5 For combined or1.0m mixed min. crossrides, the surface of the boulevard area within the crossing should 1.0m min. be concrete toBench match Clearance the pedestrian crossing Bench Clearance
Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances6 Optional for rest warning stops or text other painted trail amenityon trail (seeareas Figure 5.11.) C Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas for diagrammatic ROAD purposes; roadways ROAD are not drawn 6 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines sidewalk sidewalk Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 48 accurately AHEAD boulevard 49 AHEAD
AHEAD ROAD BOULEVARD BETWEEN SIDEWALK AND CURB TRAIL CROSSING AT INTERSECTION 5.2.3. Mid-Block Road Crossings (all way stop controlled example with MIXED 5 crossride) Mid-block crossings may be uncontrolled or signalized. The Highway Trafic Act trail centre line does not permit a stop-controlled mid-block crossing. This section begins with a shall be solid This coniguration consists of a mixed crossride serving a within 10m of discussion of the criteria for determining whether a crossing should be signalized multi-use trail only. It includes: stop bar at or not, then presents two signalized crossing conigurations, along with three crossings variations of an uncontrolled crossing. • “Yield” sign facing trail users multi-use A trail (typical) The igure showing the signalized crossing coniguration is divided left-right to • NO stop bars for trail users show the two possible conigurations. The upper and lower portions of each coniguration show how the trail crossing would be conigured when the sidewalk • solid centre line approaching the crossing is next to the5 curb (lower) or when a boulevard is present (upper). The igure • warning and wayinding signage descriptions and showing the uncontrolled conigurations presents each separately and completely. placements B sidewalk CROSSING Each coniguration illustrates the relative placements of different elements related to the crossing: crossrides, painted lines and symbols, signs, signals, This coniguration is appropriate for any stop-controlled 3 and other elementsboulevard that wouldB be present. SLOW crossing where a trail is present and a sidewalk is not. WATCH FOR C TURNING VEHICLES 2 All mid-block crossings will require implementation of a no-stopping zone adjacent optional optional min 1 the crossing to prevent15m physical or sightline obstructions.
D SIGNALIZED1 OR UNSIGNALIZED? The criteria that are considered when deciding if a crossing should be signalized An uncontrolled
15m are daily trafic volume, posted speed limit, and road width. min crossing is suitable for roadways where these are less than 5,500 vehicles per day, 40km/hboulevard or less, and less than 4 lanes. Anything exceeding these limits Shade Tree should be signalized. Shade Tree 6 sidewalk D Roads exceeding 35,000 vehicles per day, 60 km/h and four lanes are typically B not appropriate for an at-grade crossing. In rare cases however, a signalized crossing may be appropriate. Interpretation Signage min Interpretation Signage 0.6m
Fence Fence 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance 5-10m Trail Clearance 1 Mixed crossride (see Figures 5.06, 5.07) 15m Area of Special Area of Special Interest A Interest 2 Tactile walking surface indicator and flush curb, match Figure 5.15. width of crosswalk/crossride (typical) 1.0m min. trail crossing at 1.0m min. 3 Curb transitionBench (typically Clearance 1.2 metres) intersection (all way Bench Clearance stop controlled Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances4 Optional for rest warning stops or text other painted trail amenityon trail (seeareas Figure 5.11.) C example with Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas for diagrammatic ROAD purposes; roadways mixed crossride) are not drawn 50 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines accurately AHEAD 4 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 51
AHEAD
SIGNALIZED CROSSING SIGNALIZED CROSSING AHEAD
ROAD SEPARATED CROSSRIDE COMBINED CROSSRIDE ROAD trail centre MID BLOCK TRAIL CROSSING MID BLOCK TRAIL CROSSING line shall be (signalized example with SEPARATED crossride) (signalized example with COMBINED crossride) solid within 10m of stop 5 bar at The coniguration on the left side of the facing page The coniguration on the right side of the facing page crossings
consists of a separated crossride serving multi-use trail consists of a combined crossride serving multi-use trail and sidewalk facilities. It includes: and sidewalk facilities. It includes: A SLOW multi-use multi-use trail (typical) E trail (typical) • bicycle signals (trail and sidewalk) • bicycle signals (trail and sidewalk)
SIDEWALK AND CURB SIDEWALK CYCLISTS BOULEVARD BETWEEN BOULEVARD STOP • stop bars for trail users located behind the • stop bars for trail users located beyond the HERE B ON sidewalk sidewalk where the boulevard is wide enough for RED pedestrian SIGNAL a cyclist to stop without obstructing the sidewalk, signal bicycle • solid centre line approaching the crossing and behind the sidewalk in the lower part where (typical) signal (typical) • warning and wayinding signage descriptions and no boulevard is present C 7 2.0m or placements • solid centre line approaching the crossing greater D • warning and wayinding signage descriptions and 5 This coniguration is appropriate for any signalized placements crossing where both trail and sidewalk are present. It is D min
preferable for roadways with higher speeds and volumes, 15m 3 CROSSING or for trails with higher volumes and/or a broad mix of This coniguration is appropriate for any signalized 2 user-types. crossing where both trail and sidewalk are present. This 4 1 coniguration should be the default approach for a YIELD TO signalized mid-block crossing. E PEDESTRIANS min 15m 1 Symmetrical separated crossride (see Figure 5.09.). Note that an asymmetrical crossing is possible, where the pedestrian crossing is deleted fromShade one Tree side. Shade Tree
2 Tactile walking surface indicator and flush curb, match width of crosswalk/crossride (typical) 1m stop bar 3 Curb transition (typically 1.2 metres) typical B C B C Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage 4 Combined crossride (see Figure 5.08.) Figure 5.16. min
Fence 0.6m mid-block crossing congurations Fence 5 Boulevard1.0m area min. forming part of trail crossing may be concrete, asphalt, or any other hard surface (signalized examples) 1.0m min. conformingTrail to Clearance accessibility requirements 5-10m Trail Clearance Area of Special 15m Area of Special 6 Optional warning text painted on trail (see Figure 5.11.) Interest A Interest TO CURB TO 7 Where sufficient1.0m space min. exists in the boulevard for a bicycle to stop, a waiting area should be provided, 1.0m min. as shown, withBench the stop Clearance bar located near the curb Bench Clearance
SIDEWALK ADJACENT SIDEWALK Requirements for Figure 3.08: Lateral clearancesNOTE: Where for rest bicycle stops orand other road trail signals amenity are positionedareas close together, they should be mounted on a single pole. E (optional) both pedestrian and ROAD Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas for diagrammatic ROAD bicycle signals shall purposes; roadways be determined based Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines are not drawn 6 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 53 52 accurately AHEAD on site conditions. AHEAD NO MODIFICATIONS “PINCH” REFUGE ISLAND TO ROADWAY CONFIGURATION CONFIGURATION MID BLOCK TRAIL CROSSING A 5 (unsignalized examples) optional Uncontrolled mid-block crossings are typically appropriate for the most amenable B situations. These are typically small local roads with two lanes where volumes, speeds and especially the crossing distances are low. C 0.15m 15m guards/barricades In the simplest example, (at left) no changes are made to CROSSING the roadway.
Where the distance is greater, or some trafic calming SLOW D WATCH FOR is desired, a “pinch” may be appropriate (centre). This VEHICLES consists of narrowing the roadway in the vicinity of the optional sidewalk crossing. The enhanced surfacing is discretionary, but boulevard greatly improves the visibility of the crossing. E “WAIT FOR GAP” 3m
optional trail users’ C path of travel Where distance is greater and speeds or volumes are elevated, a refuge island may be appropriate. This consists 0.6m trail centre line min of an elevated island in the centre of the road. shall be solid within 10m of stop bar 30m at crossings The refuge island design necessitates that trail users face B oncoming trafic before exiting. As such, the coniguration shown here must be used, and a mirror relection of it 3 5-10m E should be avoided. Trail designers should be conscious of B E E the fact that a refuge island will add to the time required for A multi-use B crossing. 2 Shade Tree 0.6m trail (typical) E Shade Tree min 15m 11m 1 min
The refuge island design provides suficient space for
AHEAD SLOW waiting cyclists including tandems, recumbents and those ROAD with trailers. It is intended for riding through rather than 1m Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage dismounting, but is necessarily designed with narrow widths and tight turning radii, so additional trail calming measures D B 15m C Figure 5.17. can be an asset. Fence Fence 1.0m min. mid-block 1.0m min. Trail Clearance 15m Trail Clearance crossing 1 Tactile walking surface indicator and flush curb, min guards/barricades Area of Special 15m congurations Area of Special Tactilematch walking width surface of trail indicator (typical) and flush curb, Interest (sightlines must not Interest 1 min be obstructed) (unsignalized match width of trail (typical) 2 Curb transition (typically 1.21.0m metres) min. examples) 1.0m min. 2 Curb transition (typically 1.2 metres)Bench Clearance Bench Clearance 3 Optional warning text painted on trail (see Figure 5.11.) Figure3 3.08:Optional Lateral warning clearances text forpainted rest stops on trail or (seeother Figure trail amenity 5.11.) areas for diagrammatic Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas purposes; roadways C are not drawn C 54 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines accurately Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 55 5.2.4. Crossings at Ramps 5.3. Park Roads and Driveways enhancing visibility of crossings and improving sight lines. 5 Crossings of on- and off-ramps are conigured in a users is critical, and (ii) the sidewalk, if present will Trails running within road rights-of-way will also cross similar manner to mid-block crossings. The signiicant only be on one side of the trail--in this regard it is like a driveways. This presents a signiicant risk for faster trail In all options, it is preferable to balance the position of differences include (i) on-coming vehicles usually have crossing at an intersection. The trail should be aligned users as motorists tend to expect slower trafic in the the trail between sightlines of motorists entering and poorer sightlines, so providing effective warning signs so that the sidewalk and trail crossings are adjacent. boulevard areas and frequently focus their attention on exiting the driveway. The grade of the trail should not for the vehicles and good sightlines for waiting trail road trafic. Trail users also may not anticipate crossing change through the crossing. motorists, especially at obscured or hidden entrances. It is for these reasons that roadways with numerous Prohibiting left-turn entrances and exits (for example by A driveways are considered less suitable for multi-use constructing a median in the roadway) is an additional trails in boulevards. optional measure that can improve conditions for trail users along roads with higher trafic volumes, or where many Where no alternative alignment exists, the following driveways are present. B trail centre line coniguration will help to reduce risks for trail users by shall be solid within 10m of stop bar at crossings SLOW NOTES: A WATCH FOR driveway / C multi-use VEHICLES park road All measures shall be trail (typical) B considered optional. Where CROSSING use is greater or visibility poorer, increasing levels of 2 marking shall be used. ramp B Figure 5.19. SLOW 1 Trail surface shall be level typical park D WATCH FOR VEHICLES CROSSING throughout. road / driveway 15m 15m optional min crossings: sidewalk Bollards are discouraged. design options B C A
0.6m Shade Tree 5-10m min Shade Tree C A min
15m 15m Figure 5.18. unsignalized 3 crossing Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage ROAD coniguration AHEAD multi-use trail of a trail and a Fence for diagrammatic Fence roadway ramp D purposes; roadways 1.0m min. are not drawn 1.0m min. Trail Clearance accurately Trail Clearance textured or coloured Area of Special solid line surface markings Area of Special Interest within Interest ten metres 1.0m min. 1.0m min. 1 Tactile walking surface indicator and flush curb, match width of trail (typical) min Bench Clearance 15m Bench Clearance 2 Curb transition (typically 1.2 metres) C Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for3 restOptional stops orwarning other trail text amenitypainted areason trail (see Figure 5.11.) road Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas 56 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 57 6 Trails in Special Situations In Toronto, many of our trails exist in places that are not developed parkland or wide boulevards of local low-volume streets. Many of our trails are in ravines and river valleys, rail or hydro corridors, or in other spaces where special care in design is needed. This results in a character for our trails that is special, but also presents new sets of challenges for trail designers. This section identiies some of the common situations and challenges that arise, and provides guidance for addressing them.
requirements for warning signs described in the 6.1. Strategies for Multi-use Ontario Trafic Manual.1 The warning should specify Trail Development with the conditions that will be encountered. For additional Challenging or Constrained information about signage, refer to chapter 7. Site Conditions
Implementing trails in areas of challenging or constrained site conditions should be avoided whenever possible. Where that is not possible the sections of trail may result that do not meet guidelines, or that may require special implementation measures to ensure the quality or safety of the built facility.
Where a section of trail must be installed that does Shade Tree not meet the guidelines, the following measures may Shade Tree be used. These situations should be minimized to the shortest possible length of trail, and appropriate mitigation measures should be provided, such as those Interpretation Signage described below. Interpretation Signage
Fence Fence 1.0m min. 6.1.1. Warning Signage 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance Area of Special Warning signage should be considered mandatory for all Area of Special Interest sections of a trail that do not meet the guidelines. Interest
1.0m min. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Warning signs should be located in advance of the area Warning sign for a steep slope at the Finch Bench Clearance requiring warning, and should conform to standard Hydro Corridor Trail in G Ross Lord Park Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas 1 http://www.otc.org/research/download-manuals/ Section of theToronto Finch Multi-Use Hydro TrailCorridor Design Trail Guidelines near G Ross Lord Park Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 59 6.1.2. Trafic Calming for Trails • Textured surfaces are an excellent way to slow 6.2. Constructing Trails in • Curves should be avoided (this includes switchbacks, down trail trafic, but must be non slip and except where they form park of a grade separation- 6 Several of the following measures may be used together accessible. Alternatives include detectable warning Challenging Site Conditions -see section 7.2). If a curve is required to align the or in combination, and should usually be combined with strips, imprinted asphalt or concrete, or unit pavers. trail with contours, the curve should be located above warning signs. Contrasting colour in combination with texture will This section provides guidance for a selection of or below the slope. When a switchback is used for improve trail user safety in these situations, but on challenging situations that trail designers working in trail access, it is considered to be a distinct element • Curves rather than straightaways will cause faster its own does not represent a calming measure. Toronto are likely to face. It is intended to be read in which is discussed later in these guidelines. trail users to move more slowly; in most cases conjunction with the Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design • Friction is a technique for slowing trafic where • Trails should be installed by “bench-cut” grading, and stopping sight distances should be maintained. Guidelines Construction Document Supplement, which elements are located along the edge of a facility should be cross-sloped to accommodate surface run In cases where stronger trail calming is desired, includes further details related to implementation of for the length where trail calming is desired. These off and prevent ponding. designers may reduce stopping sight distances and many of this section’s recommendations. should be kept outside of the minimum lateral provide explicit warnings regarding restricted sight- clearance area, but should be in plain view. Flexi- • Sections of trail sloped more than 3% for a signiicant lines. In these scenarios, additional measures should 6.2.1. Trails on Steep Slopes bollards, fences, landscaping and other elements length should be provided with extra width, following be considered for reinforcement. similar guidelines to those for trail widening at can be used. As trails strive to achieve universal accessibility, limiting curves, discussed earlier. • Smaller turning radii (below guideline running slopes will provide challenges for designers in • Gateway features and choke fences are more recommendations) are an extension of adding many situations, especially in Toronto’s extensive ravine extreme measures that should be used with caution When site conditions make it impossible to establish a curves, whereby the tighter radii cause faster trail system. Avoiding steep slopes is the best strategy, and should be located in a manner that allows trail with accessible slopes, signage at trail entrances and users to slow down to negotiate the turn; these however, this is not always practical or even desirable. the fastest trail users to see them and slow down, published trail maps should indicate the non-accessible should always be provided with mitigation measures and should be implemented with signage requiring area, how long and how steep it is, and where the nearest such as warning signage. Where a trail must cross a steep slope, the following cyclists to slow, yield or dismount. accessible entrances and exits to the trail are found. strategies may be considered: Where possible, trail designers should seek to provide a parallel facility or detour that meets accessibility criteria. • Trails should be aligned diagonally across slopes to achieve desired running slopes. 2 2 1 1 2 upperupper slope slope Figure 6.01. 1 3 3 upper slope Shade Tree 3 preferred Shade Tree 4 4 design for 4 trails on slopes 2% 2%
2% 10% 5% 10%
5% 10% Interpretation Signage 5% Interpretation Signage 10% 10% 10% Fence Fence 1.0m min. 2% 2% 1.0m min. Trail Clearance 2% Trail Clearance Area of Special lowerlower slope slope contourcontour line line Area of Special Interest lower slope contour line Interest
1 11LocateLocate curves curves away away from from slopes slopes 3 Cut-and-fill3 Cut-and-fill grading grading 1.0m min. Locate curves away from slopes 3 Cut-and-fill grading 1.0m min. 4 Bench Clearance A choke fence on the approach to a 2 22AlignAlignAlign trail trail trail diagonally diagonally diagonally across across across slope slope slope to to to 4 WidenedWidened4 Widened trail trail surface surface Bench Clearance Curved alignment of the Finch Hydro bridge/underpass on the Lower Don A steep slope at the Finch Hydro Corridor achieveachieveachieve desired desired desired running running running slope slope slope Figure 3.08: Lateral clearancesCorridor for restTrail stops near or Sentinel other trail Drive amenity areas Trail near Taylor Creek Park Trail in G Ross Lord Park (below(below(below 5%) 5%) 5%) Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas FigureFigureFigure 3.39: 3.39: 3.39: preferred preferred preferred alignment alignment alignment of of trails oftrails trails on on slopes onslopes slopes 60 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 61 6.2.2. Trails through Wet Areas
6 Trails should not be routed through wetlands or seepage The example shown below may be used in most areas zones, or areas that have persistent or seasonally wet where wet soils are present, seasonally, but standing soils. They may be planned near these areas or in water does not occur. already impacted parts of such areas. Early Consultation with Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) The designs shown to the right are appropriate where will help to ensure success. standing water is persistent or seasonally present. The example on the left will prevent overland lows, and Raised Trail Elevated Trail Where such conditions cannot be avoided, special should be constructed with culverts to preserve natural Raised Trail Elevated Trail 2 1 2 pathway construction methods may be appropriate. water movement as much as possible. Where erosion 2 1 2 2 1 2 or wash-out risks are present, stronger edge protection 2 1 2 11 Figure 6.03. The following general conigurations may be considered is recommended. The example on the right allows 10 11 trail design 6 10 7 for such situations, depending on the exact nature of surface lows to pass below. 3 6 7 conigurations the site conditions. Variations on each of these designs 3 for wet soil are possible. areas
8 9 12 4 4 8 9 12 Figure 6.02. typical trail 1 5 5 construction 1 * requires* requires structural structural design; design; surfacing surfacing in wet soil and structuraland structural systems systems may vary may vary + + + + + + + + + + areas + + + + + + + + + + + + ++ ++ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ++ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ++ ++ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ++ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ++ ++ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ++ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ++ ++ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ++ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ++ ++ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + 5 + + ++ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + 5 + + + + + + + + 1 Trail1 Trail width width 7 Trail7 surfaceTrail surface and lateral and clearancelateral clearance areas (possibly areas (possibly two two 2 2 differentdifferent materials) materials) 4 4 Shade Tree 2 Lateral2 Lateral clearance clearance zone zone Shade Tree 3 3 8 Footings8 Footings (requirements (requirements may vary) may vary) 3 Trail3 Trail surface surface and pavedand paved shoulders shoulders (shoulders (shoulders may be may be alternatealternate material) material) 9 Restoring9 Restoring work area work below area structurebelow structure may not may be not be 1 1TrailTrail surface surface - consider - consider crowned crowned trail for traillow-lying for low-lying level areas level with areas limited with limited overland flows possible;possible; provide provide 50-75 mm50-75 size mm clear size stone clear working stone working overland flows 4 Trail base, built up in lifts (use free-draining, compactible surface Interpretation Signage 4 Trail base, built up in lifts (use free-draining, compactible surface Interpretation Signage materialsmaterials such such as Granular as Granular ‘O’) ‘O’) 2 Trail base - consider expanded depths, and use free-draining, compactible 10 2materialTrail suchbase as - consider Granular ‘O’expanded depths, and use free-draining, compactible Guard10 Guardwhere whereheight heightis over is0.6 over metres 0.6 metres material such as Granular ‘O’ Fence 5 Remove5 Remove organic organic soils soilsor at orleast at leastuppermost uppermost vegetated vegetated Fence 1.0m min. layer and install geosynthetics for improved stability 11 Edge11 protection where height is below 0.6 metres 1.0m min. Trail3 ClearanceGeosynthetics for improved stability - extend beyond limit of trail base layer and install geosynthetics for improved stability Edge protection where height is below 0.6 metres Trail Clearance 3 Geosynthetics for improved stability - extend beyond limit of trail base Area of Special 6 Protect6 edges with rip-rap (shown) or armour stone. 12 Adjacent12 undisturbed areas Area of Special 4 Backfill with native soils and restore with dense plantingsInterest of bareroot or Protect edges with rip-rap (shown) or armour stone. Adjacent undisturbed areas Interest 4containerBackfill plants with and native over soils seeding and restore with dense plantings of bareroot or ConformConform to requirements to requirements for trails for trailsadjacent adjacent to slopes to slopes container plants and over seeding 5 1.0mUse existingmin. adjacent plant communities as a guide for designing restoration 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance 5 Use existing adjacent plant communities as a guide for designing restoration Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.40: typical trail construction in wet soil areas Figure 3.41: raised and elevated trail configurations for wet soil areas Figure 3.41: raised and elevated trail configurations for wet soil areas 62 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 63 Figure 3.40: typical trail construction in wet soil areas 6.2.3. Trails in the Vicinity of 6.3. Trails through Natural 6.3.1. Regulated Areas and 6 Tree Roots Areas Approvals by Authorities Having Preserving a suitable soil environment for tree roots textile reinforcement over the stripped soil and has Jurisdiction Trails provide an important recreational asset by below trails must be balanced against the need to been used successfully in Toronto. Because of its facilitating access into natural areas. This is a beneit In Toronto, natural areas are typically regulated by one prevent damages to the trail surface that may be elevated nature, care must be taken to ensure run- to trail users, but results in challenges for protecting or both of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority caused by tree roots. off is properly directed in the vicinity, and that the (TRCA) and Ravine and Natural Feature Protection (RNFP) grading of trail edges transitions smoothly to meet the quality of the natural area. On one hand, the trail is a means to manage human impacts to the natural staff in the Urban Forestry branch of Toronto Parks, All trail construction or related excavations in the vicinity existing grades. area by focusing them in appropriate places and on Forestry and Recreation. Each will be concerned with of trees must be reviewed and where appropriate • Preventing tree roots from growing beneath trails appropriate surfaces. On the other hand, trails interrupt particular aspects of trail construction and operation and approved by the Tree Protection and Plan Review section can be achieved by use of root barriers, many types the continuity of natural areas, provide pathways for both must be consulted when planning any new trail or of the Urban Forestry branch of Parks, Forestry and of which are commercially available. Limestone invasive species to enter natural areas, bring wildlife trail upgrades within natural areas, wet areas, seepages, Recreation. Any work completed within these areas should not be used as a means to prevent root into conlict with human activities, and ready access to or in proximity to slopes and watercourses. must be done in conformance with City of Toronto Tree growth due to the possibility of impacts to the natural areas for more adventurous trail users, off-leash Protection Policy and Speciications for Construction TRCA and RNFP staff will advise about possible areas of 1 ground water beyond the trail bed. dogs, and others. near Trees. concern, such as bird nesting habitats, isheries or the • Facilitating tree root growth below trails may Issues to be addressed by trail designers include presence of protected species. Where concerns exist, • Building trails over existing tree roots, where be desirable in areas where tree planting space is regulations and approvals by authorities having TRCA and RNFP may assist with determining if additional necessary may be accomplished by stripping only restricted, such as within boulevard spaces. In such jurisdiction, managing impacts of construction and requirements apply, and developing strategies to address the top vegetated layer of soil by hand, and installing situations, soil cells are a suitable strategy, and are operation, and constructing trails in adverse site those requirements. a minimum amount of granular base as a levelling described in detail along with other strategies in conditions. course, followed by a single, heavy lift of asphalt Tree Planting Solutions in Hard Boulevard Surfaces pavement. This strategy may also include geo- – Best Practices Manual.2
Shade Tree Shade Tree
Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage
Fence Fence 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance Area of Special Area of Special Interest Interest A natural area in the Highland Creek Trail near Colonel1.0m Danforth min. Park 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance 1 http://www1.toronto.ca/city_of_toronto/parks_forestry__recreation/urban_forestry/iles/pdf/TreeProtSpecs.pdf Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances2 http://www1.toronto.ca/city_of_toronto/parks_forestry__recreation/urban_forestry/iles/pdf/TreePlan for rest stops or other trail amenity areas tingSolutions_ View of Highland Creek and trail from Morningside Avenue Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas BestPracticesManual.pdf 64 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 65 6.3.2. Managing Impacts of Work within unobstructed sight line areas should Concentrated lows, such as swales, ditches or • Preserving existing trees and vegetation is, Trail Construction and Operation be reduced to clearing of brush over 0.6 metres seasonal streams should be bridged or conveyed again, partially helped by reducing the footprint of 6 height and clearing of small branches below 2.5 within culverts. construction to the minimum area possible, and this metres height. This work must be done by hand, by preservation also supports preventing the spread Environmentally Signiicant Areas and Areas of Natural Where concentrated lows run parallel to a pathway, qualiied workers, and in conformance with City of of invasive plants; complying with Toronto’s Tree and Scientiic Interest are speciic demarcated areas they may constitute a continuous edge obstruction Toronto Tree Protection Policy and Speciications Protection Policy and Speciications for Construction that in most cases are not compatible with multi-use (see chapter 4). trails. Where trails pass near these areas, mitigation and for Construction near Trees. near Trees is critical for both planning trails to avoid • Preventing the spread of invasive plants is greatly trees and for building trails near trees, as described restoration measures should be anticipated and planned If the trail has been sized appropriately, impacts helped by reducing the footprint of construction; earlier in this section. in consultation with the TRCA and RNFP staff. Any issues to the edge of the trail while in operation should additional measures during construction include relating to areas of lood storage and conveyance or to not be signiicant. Where problems do arise from • Reducing conlicts between wildlife and human avoiding importing soil, retaining existing vegetation lood hazards must be referred to the TRCA. trail user behaviour, fencing will help reduce these activities includes a range of issues such as in the lateral clearance areas and applying impacts. Proper training of maintenance workers preventing disruptions to wildlife patterns, preventing aggressive restoration practices that will not leave The most important aspects of managing construction can prevent impacts from maintenance activities. risks to wildlife safety and preventing risks to human bare soils or mulch areas where invasive plants and operation impacts are ensuring a minimal footprint safety. These need to be assessed on a site-by-site • Preventing disruption of water movement: can gain a foothold. During operation of the trail, for the trail and to prevent interfering with a site’s natural basis, and may include choosing routes that avoid Following the guidelines for trail slopes will help trail-side areas should be mowed as infrequently hydrology. nesting areas, limiting artiicial lights in habitat to ensure that impacts to water movement do not as possible, and preferably only cleared of woody corridors, providing snake basking areas away from result from trail construction, by permitting natural vegetation. • Minimizing trail footprints: During construction, the trail, and a wide range of other possibilities. the footprint of activity should be constrained within overland lows. the trail corridor (see chapter 4) on either side of Where a trail has steep slopes above or below it, the trail and this area should be demarcated by overland lows can cause erosion, deposition and temporary fencing. Staging, and equipment or slope destabilization if not designed, constructed material storage areas must be located outside of and maintained correctly. Each site will be the natural area. Construction activities should be different, however strategies including interception followed by restoration immediately and should be swales, erosion protection stone (rip-rap), scheduled to accommodate suitable planting and stabilization plantings, and low-impact development establishment times for restoration measures. can be used to mitigate potential erosion. Shade Tree Shade Tree
Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage
Fence Fence 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance Area of Special Area of Special Interest Interest
1.0m min. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance Invasive plant growth (dog-strangling vine) along Erosion adjacent to Highland Creek Figure 3.08: Lateral clearancesHighland for rest Creek stops Trail or other near trail Morningside amenity areas Park Trail near Colonel Danforth Park Fence protecting natural area along the East Don Trail in at Charles Sauriol Conservation Area Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
66 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 67 these are roadways with speeds of 60 km/h or more clearance to the centre of the nearest active track must 6.4. Special Restrictions 1 1 Fence, where present, shall not extend within minimum and four or more lanes of trafic. These types of be maintained, and some form of visual cue provided, lateral clearance area 6 roadways often do not have sidewalks, and a trail such as landscaping or a less intensive fence design. Toronto’s trails are occasionally constructed on land 15m min adjacent should be planned in a similar manner as a 2 Purpose-made rail crossing system to provide level, that is not owned by the City, or is encumbered by trail within a dedicated right-of-way. Trails in inactive or abandoned rail corridors may beneit universal access across rail utilities or easements. Piggybacking a trail system 8m min from the relatively lat grades and compacted bases that 2 within these networks can provide a highly-connected 3 Barrier and warning lights, where required The conlict between high-speed trafic and trail uses are generally found in these locations however these trail network for the City. In every one of these 3 is best addressed by distance. Designers should try to sites should be investigated before planning for possible 4 4 Warning and wayfinding signs on common post in situations, it is a priority to identify and consult with achieve the maximum distance between the trail and contamination issues. These are surmountable, but may advance of unobstructed sight line area the affected landowners or stakeholders early in the the roadway. Aligning trails at the maximum distance add signiicant additional costs to the trail project.
process and regularly as the design is developed. In RAIL 5 from the roadway will also help to “future-proof” the trail X-ING Where curves in trail alignment are near the rail crossing, these situations, it is both the functional constraints provide an unobstructed sightline area of at least 25 against road expansions. RAIL CROSSINGS metres from the near side of the crossing (measure to of the particular use encountered, AND the legal or 5 bureaucratic requirements that will be determine how Situations calling for crossing of active railway lines will detectable warning strip) Where an appropriate distance cannot be achieved, be infrequent, and will be subject to review by the rail 6 the trail is implemented. 6 Marking post to delineate lateral clearance guide rails and a physical separation such as a fence or operator, who may require additional measures such as landscaping are recommended. signals and barriers. Where feasible, providing a grade- 7 Figure 6.04. In some of the cases discussed in this section, the land trail 7crossingDetectable at warning strip, full-width of trail on both sides may be owned and managed by the City, but the use will separated crossing is preferred to any at-grade solution. and located 1 metre from barrier or fence Guidance provided earlier for roadway crossings may be 8 active railway create limitations. Again, the priority is to identify and applied to situations where the trail crosses a road that 8 Rail consult with the affected stakeholders. The crossing coniguration shown at right is intended to 9 intersects a high-speed, high-volume road. In situations provide general guidance only for designers and planners. 6.4.1. Trails Adjacent High-Volume or where an existing signalized crossing is present, it is 9 Centre-line of track possible for a trail to cross such a road. Crossing conigurations at rail lines should always be High-Speed Arterial Roadways 1 Figure1 Fence, 3.37: where trail present, crossing shall atnot activeextend within railway minimum 6.4.2. Trails in or adjacent to designed at 90-degrees for a minimum distance of 15 lateral clearance area High-volume and high-speed roadways may have space metres from the centreline of 15mthe mintrack, or of the outer Rail Corridors tracks where more than one is present. 2 Purpose-made rail crossing system to provide level, for trails in the lands dedicated to them. Generally, universal access across rail Active and inactive rail corridors crisscross the entire 8m min 2 City and present an opportunity for trail building. Both 3 Barrier and warning lights, where required Shade Tree 3 Shade Tree active and inactive rail lines present special challenges 4 4 Warning and wayfinding signs on common post in for trail development. Important resources include the advance of unobstructed sight line area Canadian Railway-Roadway Grade-Crossings Standards1
Rails to RAIL 5 and a number of publications developed by the X-ING Where curves in trail alignment are near the rail crossing, TrailsInterpretation Conservancy. Signage These should be consulted for any provide an unobstructed sightline area of at least 25 Interpretation Signage metres from the near side of the crossing (measure to trail design adjacent to an active or inactive railway. 5 Fence detectable warning strip) Fence 1.0m min. 1.0m min. 6 Trail Clearance Trails near active railways in Toronto will usually be 6 Marking post to delineate lateral clearance Trail Clearance separatedArea of Special physically by a chain link fence or a more Area of Special signiicantInterest barrier such as noise attenuation wall, 7 7 Detectable warning strip, full-width of trail on both sides Interest even where the trail is on rail property. In the rare and located 1 metre from barrier or fence 1.0m min. 8 1.0m min. Martin GoodmanBench Trail Clearance adjacent to Lakeshore circumstance where this may not be the case, a The West Toronto Railpath, Bench Clearance Boulevard, near Ashbridges Bay 8 Rail distance of at least eight metres from the trail’s lateral adjacent to active rail lines 9 Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances1 https://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/railsafety/grade-crossings-standards.htm for rest stops or other trail amenity areas 9 Centre-line of track Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
68 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Figure 3.37: trail crossing at active railway Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 69 6.4.3. Trails in Hydro-Electric • Trails and ancillary elements must not be installed 6.4.4. Trails over Pipelines and Other 6.5. Multi-use Trails in Park Transmission Corridors within 15 metres of tower foundations to prevent Private Utilities 6 disruption during maintenance of the tower. In Roads and Parking Lots Hydro-electric transmission corridors crisscross the heavily constrained situations, HONI may consider a When planning any trail, planners and designers should city and provide opportunities for an extensive trail reduction of this distance. identify any existing utilities or utility easements as early Where multi-use trails are routed on park roads, network. These lands are managed by a provincial as possible in the planning process. Measures required to the results can fall between typical on-road cycling crown corporation (Infrastructure Ontario) and operated As a general guideline, locating trails near the edges of construct a trail over such a utility will vary. Requirements facilities and typical multi-use trails. In most cases, by the utility, Hydro One Networks Incorporated (HONI). hydro corridors preserves larger open spaces for other may include daylighting the utility and backilling with it would be preferable for the park road to function Consultation with both of these groups is critical for activities and reduces potential conlicts between trail unshrinkable ill or other special materials, or simply as a multi-use trail where motor-vehicles happen developing trails in these areas. uses and utility operations. This also may allow for ensuring access for maintenance or upgrades. to be included among the permitted users. In utilization of shade and lighting assets present beyond these situations, a few basic rules can be applied: HONI will provide detailed input into designs to ensure the corridor boundary, or a simpliied rationalization for Trails crossing private utilities typically are not that site-speciic concerns can be addressed. Their providing these within the corridor (i.e. trees planted at signiicantly affected by the requirements of utility • Motor vehicles should be limited to speeds of20 main concerns will be: edges pose no risk to wires). owners, because the affected area of the crossing is km/h or less. typically small. Trails running parallel to private utilities • Any grading associated with trail development must • Regulatory and warning signs (stop, yield, etc.) may share a corridor, but should typically be aligned not interfere with natural drainage patterns of the should follow the requirements determined for motor parallel at a suficient distance that: transmission corridor. vehicles. • Height restrictions for light standards, plantings and • capital costs related to special requirements do not • Wayinding signage for motor vehicles and trails other elements are typically dealt with on a case by become excessive, and should be distinct; the trail signage should follow the case basis, and can depend upon the height and guidance in the next chapter. • repairs or improvements to the utility have less voltage of transmission lines. signiicant impacts on the trail condition and use • Ample symbol painting and signage should be • All trail access points must be designed to prevent provided to clearly communicate to motorists that In natural areas, it may be desirable for the pathway vehicular access and should be clear of HONI trail users are present. and utility to share the same footprint. This will reduce maintenance access (see end of this chapter for potential impacts, but will also increase capital costs and • Where curbs are present, the roadway should provide access restriction measures). result in a need to coordinate maintenance activities. suficient width for the trail AND lateral clearances • Anti-climbing barriers may be required onShade HONI Tree between the curbs; where no curbs are present and Shade Tree structures along the length of the trail, as the roadway width only accommodates the paths- determined by HONI, to prevent unauthorized of-travel, the shoulders should meet the lateral climbing of towers. clearance and shoulder requirements for trails. Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage • Relective markers must be installed on all tower • If a raised sidewalk is present, it should be considered legs and at all tower locations along the route if the Fence a separate facility and conform to requirements for Fence trail is to 1.0mbe used min. at night. sidewalks, while the road continues to be considered 1.0m min. Trail Clearance a multi-use facility; if a sidewalk is present that is Trail Clearance • HONI may be utilizing multi-use pathways on Area of Special Area of Special Interest level with the road, then it should be included and Interest corridors from time to time for maintenance should meet the requirements for a multi-use trail activities and will not accept responsibility for 1.0m min. with an adjacent pedestrian-only area (one of the 1.0m min. damages. Bench Clearance high-capacity conigurations). Bench Clearance The Finch Hydro Corridor Trail near The Finch Hydro Corridor Trail crossing Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas McNicoll Avenue and Brimley Road pipeline utilities near Sentinel Road Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
70 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 71 5 5 1b 1b
5 5 1 1
2 2 12 12 6 6 5 • Road closures for seasonal or night-time restrictions • Trails through parking lots should be avoided 1b should be communicated in signage and all other wherever possible. 6 communications. Where it is possible to restrict only 3 3 5 1 motor vehicles and not trail users, then care should • Where a trail must be routed through drive aisles, 7 7 7 7 13 13 be taken regarding the means of restriction (see those aisles should be two-way, and should be 14 14 2 2 2 chapter 7). provided with additional width, and extensive 4 4 1 1 12 markings and signage where possible. Trail calming 6 • Winter maintenance must be considered during measures should be applied as well. design, for example by providing snow storage areas 3 7 13 outside of cyclist operating space. • Where a trail crosses through a parking lot, 5 5 5 5 7 perpendicular to the drive aisles, the portion that 1 1 14 4 2 10 1 10 Park roads can also function as roadways with typical crosses the drive aisle should be treated as a mixed on-road cycling facilities and separate pedestrian crossride; any portion of this facility that passes 8 8 facilities, where heavier trafic is present or sightlines are between or beside parked automobiles shall require 5 5 9 9 Figure 6.05. restricted. In these situations, designers should refer to lateral clearance areas AND additional clearance 1 10 trails through guidelines for on-street facilities, including the entire space from the parked car to allow for opening doors 8 or adjacent to range of possible conigurations from signed routes up to and staging from the vehicle. This has the added 9 parking lots cycle tracks, and including contra-low bike lanes where advantage of promoting the inclusion of accessible 11 11 one-way park roads are present. spaces near the trail.
11 1b 1b For trails through or adjacent to parking lots there are • Where a trail is routed along the edge of a parking 1 1 a greater number of possible hazards: reversing cars, lot, the trail’s lateral clearance must be kept free of signs, lights and other elements. Additional space 1 1b distracted drivers, crossing pedestrians, and loading and 5 5 unloading activities. The following guidance is intended should be provided for these and also for staging from vehicles. 5 to result in trail designs that improve visibility of the trail Trail Crossing TrailThrough Crossing Length Through of a Parking Length Lot of a Parking Trail Lot Crossing TrailThrough Crossing Width Through of a Parking Width Lot of a Parking Trail Lot Adjacent Trailto a AdjParkingacent Lot to a Parking Lot and promote awareness between all different modes • Winter maintenance must be considered during Trail Crossing Through Length of a Parking Lot Trail Crossing Through Width of a Parking Lot Trail Adjacent to a Parking Lot within the parking lot: design, for example by providing snow storage areas outside of cyclist operating space. 1 Warning1 sign:Warning1 “WATCH Warningsign: “WATCH FOR sign: PEDESTRIANS FOR “WATCH PEDESTRIANS FOR AND AND PEDESTRIANS AUTOMOBILES” AND AUTOMOBILES” 7 Standard7 accessibleStandard parking accessible space7 Standard parking accessible space parking space Shade Tree Shade Tree 1b Warning sign: “WATCH FOR PEDESTRIANS” Painted lateral clearance zone 1b Warning sign:1b “WATCHWarning FOR sign: PEDESTRIANS” “WATCH FOR PEDESTRIANS” 8 8 Painted lateral8 clearancePainted lateralzone clearance zone 2 Detectable warning strip 9 Painted clearance zone beside parking space 2 Detectable warning2 Detectable strip warning strip 9 Painted clearance9 Painted zone beside clearance parking zone space beside parking space 3 Pavement markings: with symbol painting at entrances and lines 10 Mixed crossride configuration. Consider treatment for Interpretation Signage through the entire parking lot. Markings should be centred in aisle improved visibility Interpretation Signage 3 Pavement andmarkings:3 matchPavement the with width symbol of markings: adjacent painting trail with sections. atsymbol entrances Demarcation painting and lines at lines entrancesand and lines 10 Mixed crossride10 configuration.Mixed crossride Consider configuration. treatment Consider for treatment for through thesymbols entire throughshould parking be theprovided. lot. entire Markings For parkinghigh visibility should lot. and Markingsbe improved centred shouldsafety, in aisle be centred in aisle11 Warning sign: improved“TRAIL X-ING visibility AHEAD”improved visibility Fence Fence 1.0m min. and matchconsider the widthand full-colour ofmatch adjacent painting. the width trail sections.of adjacent Demarcation trail sections. lines Demarcation and lines and 1.0m min. Trail Clearance symbols4 should besymbols provided. should For highbe provided. visibility Forand high improved visibility safety, and improved safety,12 Staging 11and furnishingWarning zone sign:11 “TRAILWarning X-ING sign: AHEAD” “TRAIL X-ING AHEAD” Trail Clearance Aisle to be 2-way and provided with extra width for improved visibility Area of Special consider5 full-colourconsider painting. full-colour painting. 13 Trail lateral clearance area. Use contrasting material Area of Special Interest 4 Wayfinding4 sign 12 Staging and 12furnishingStaging zone and furnishing zone Interest Aisle to6 be 2-way Aisleand providedto be 2-way with and extra provided width forwith improved extra width visibility for improved visibility14 Curb ramp, not to extend into lateral clearance area 1.0m min. “NO MOTOR VEHICLES ON TRAIL” sign Trail lateral clearanceTrail lateralarea. Use clearance contrasting area. materialUse contrasting material 1.0m min. Bench Clearance 5 5 13 13 Bench Clearance Wayfinding sign Wayfinding sign 14 14 Figure 3.08: Lateral clearancesFinch forHydro rest Corridorstops or other Trail trailadjacent amenity to areas a parking lot in G Ross Lord Park 6 6 Curb ramp, not toCurb extend ramp, into not lateral to extend clearance into lateralarea clearance areaFigure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas “NO MOTOR VEHICLESFigure“NO 3.38:MOTOR ON TRAIL” trails VEHICLES signthrough ON orTRAIL” adjacent sign to parking lots 72 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 73
Figure 3.38:Figure trails through3.38: trails or adjacent through orto adjacentparking lots to parking lots 6.6. Vehicular Access Control 6 adjust position of Trail entrances near roadways may be mistaken as signage. In addition, trail calming measures such as stop bar and sign roadways by motorists, or wilfully accessed for short-cuts gateway features or textured pavements can assist in divided centre line or other purposes. Controlling unauthorized access to controlling unwanted vehicles on trails. 1.0m and widened trail trails by motor vehicles must be balanced against the 3 removable bollards need for emergency vehicle and maintenance access. Where controls beyond design improvements are 0.6m [outer bollards optional] While it can be dangerous and disruptive, the actual considered, the default control should be no control or frequency of motor vehicles entering trails may be quite only signage. Where problems are reported, increasing 1 1 1.5m min low, and may be largely a result of ignorance rather than levels of control should be implemented until the 2.0m max bad intent. problems are reduced to an acceptable level. Signage, median islands and lexi-bollards are the preferred 2 default condition - 2 bollards (discouraged) Thoughtful trail design can help prevent unauthorized control measures, whereas bollards and P-gates are a no barrier removable, 1.0m tall access by presenting a facility that is clearly a trail rather last resort when all other methods have been proven than a road. Strategies for this can include enhanced unsuccessful, or in some cases, where they may be landscaping adjacent to the trail and bold designation required by landowners. 3 4 5 3 4 5
adjust position of offset “P” gate stop bar and sign Figure 6.06. divided centre line 1.0m vehicular 1.0m and widened trail access control options 1.5m min 3 flexi-bollards [outer 1.0m 0.6m bollards optional] 2.0m max
1 1.5m min 1 2.0m max Shade Tree Shade Tree 2 flexi-bollards 2 gates (discouraged) (1.0m tall min.) offset, 1.4m tall
Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage illustrations are for 3 4 5 3 4 5 diagrammatic purposes Fence Fence 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance 1 Sidewalk (if present) 4 Tactile walking surface indicator Trail Clearance Area of Special Area of Special Interest 2 Boulevard (varies, if present) 5 Roadway Interest
1.0m min. 3 Curb with transition 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance NOTE: For general arrangement of crossings, refer to Chapter 5. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearancesAccess for to rest the stops Finch or Hydroother trail Corridor amenity Trail areas at Silver Star Boulevard with motor vehicle restriction measures Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
74 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 75 Design of Multi-Use Trail 7 Elements and Amenities
Many amenities beyond the trail surface are required in order to provide a functional facility and positive trail user experiences. These include signage and wayinding, grade separations, structures, lighting, site furnishings and a range of other elements. 7.1. Signage and Wayinding 7.1.1. Sign Types REGULATORY SIGNS The following sections provide supplementary guidance These include signs such as yield or stop signs which to the earlier sections, with regard to signage, wayinding communicate a regulation of some type to trail users. and related issues. These signs are not to be confused with informational signs such as those that communicate bylaw information In all cases, sign panels and posts should be installed and which may form part of the wayinding system. outside of lateral clearance areas, but not farther than 1.8 metres from the edge of the trail. Sign panels shall Regulatory signs shall be placed as close as possible be installed with tops no higher than 2.4 metres and to the point where the regulation is in effect. no lower than 1.8 metres. This balances visibility with reducing the risk of vandalism or theft. WARNING SIGNS Warning signs serve to warn trail users about any Infoboards and any other signs with detailed abnormal or potentially hazardous conditions ahead information not intended to be read by trail users in such as steep slopes or sharp turns. motion should be placed away from the trail, with suficient room for trail users provided outside of the They should always identify the speciic condition being Shade Tree trail's lateral clearance areas, and separated by a Shade Tree warned against. visually-contrasting, cane-detectable surface. The height of the sign and its design should be optimized Warning signs shall typically be placed a distance in for comfortable reading. A height no higher than 1.7 advance of the condition identiied, except where the Interpretation Signage metres and no lower than 1.0 metres is suggested. Interpretation Signage sign is placed as a marker on the potential hazard, such as the leading edge of a fence near the trail. The To reduce visual clutter, it is preferable for signs to be Fence speciic location of sign placement will vary, but should Fence 1.0m min. attached to other elements such as lights if they are 1.0m min. Trail Clearance give faster users suficient distance to stop. Typically Trail Clearance present, or for multiple sign panels to share a single Area of Special this would be the sight stopping distance minus the Area of Special Interest post if they can it within the preferred height range, Interest distance that the sign can be read from. Warning signs or for general information to be included on message include the typical black-on-yellow signs indicating 1.0m min. boards rather than on trail signs. Stop and yield signs 1.0m min. Bench Clearance permanent conditions as well as the black-on-orange Bench Clearance should not be installed with other signs. signs indicating temporary conditions. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
Trailhead at Torontothe Don Multi-Use Mills Trail Trail Designand Lawrence Guidelines Avenue East Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 77 2.4m max. sign panel envelope - ensure vegetation is cleared to permit visibility 2.4m 7 at least 10m away Decision Signs Decision signs are used to identify route options at any decision points along a trail (trail-trail crossings, 1.0m pref. 1.8m trail-access intersections), and at access points to Figure 7.01.a. active trail surface 0.6m min. parks, streets, etc. Decision signs should include placement of information about connecting trails, pedestrian or signage bicycle facilities, as well as identifying important destinations ahead. Decision signs should always lateral clearance area make note of accessibility conditions, including a description of conditions to be encountered. Decision signs are to be located 5 to 10 metres before decision points.
infoboard Conirmation Signs Figure 7.01.b. 1.0m pref. Conirmation signs are used to conirm to trail users what placement of 0.6m min. trail they are on, and to indicate distance to points ahead. infoboard active trail surface Conirmation signs are to be located 20 to 30 metres after decision points, as well as approximately every kilometer - lateral clearance area sign along a continuous trail where no other decision or - cane-detectable visually reading information signs are present. contrasting surface area Access/Road Information Signs Regulatory and warning sign designs and call numbers • determination of distances travelled and distances Access/road information signs are used to identify the A conirmation sign at the Finch 1 trail (by name and EMS location code, as applicable), to can be found in the Ontario Trafic Manual Shade. Tree to points ahead; Hydro Corridor Trail Shade Tree • identiication of major destinations and landmarks; identify distance to the next trail exit, and to mention trail WAYFINDING SYSTEM • identiication of network connections to facilitate etiquette. In some cases, these signs may be superceded Road Ahead Sign The wayinding system has six distinct signage types that changes in destination or routing; by an infoboard sign (below). Road ahead signs are used to identify upcoming work together to provide trail users with information that • identiication of levels of accessibility; and roadway crossings, to show a map of the immediate Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage will assist them in navigating through the trail system. The • rules-of-the-trail and etiquette Access/road information signs are to be located 5 to 10 trail area, to identify distance to the next trail exit, and information being communicated can be summarized as: metres from the trail access road and be visible from any to mention trail etiquette. In some cases, these signs Fence cycling or pedestrian facilities in the roadway. may be superseded by an Infoboard sign (below). Fence 1.0m min. Individual sign types usually perform multiple functions. 1.0m min. • conirmationTrail Clearancethat a facility is the desired trail; The placement of signs and the information presented Conirmation signs are to be located 15 to 20 metres Trail Clearance • selection of correct direction at intersections, in thisArea document of Special are a guide, however standards for trail ahead of the stopping area before crossing the road Area of Special Interest Interest crossings, etc; signs shall conform to the Parks Wayinding Strategy2. ahead. 1.0m min. 1.0m min. 1 http://www.otc.org/research/download-manuals/Bench Clearance Bench Clearance
Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances2 http://www1.toronto.ca/wps/portal/contentonly?vgnextoid=de73cc524a3d6410VgnVCM10000071d60f89RCRD&v for rest stops or other trail amenity areas gnextchan Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas nel=55d9dada600f0410VgnVCM10000071d60f89RCRD 78 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 79 information road trail 7 access A
sign type* placement A diagram symbol ‘Yield to Peds’ ‘Yield to name road exit trail next map trail map area heritage warning hazard trail name trail destination distances rules trail address street
20-30m after Access - Trail intersection C Confirmation 20-30m after Trail - Trail intersection R Every km along the trail C 5-10m before Access - Trail intersection Figure 7.02. Decision limited sightlines D 5-10m before Trail - Trail intersection D signage table: H D Figure 7.03. this table C signage guide 5-10m from trail access at road C identiies the A Access - Road C plan: this recommended (must be visible from roadway) I plan provides A D D placement D examples of and content R Road Ahead 15-20m from road ahead appropriate for each of C placement for Trail - Trail Intersection H the sign types I Infoboard D each sign type recommended Every 4 km along the trail C H Warning ** 25m from hazard if grade is 2% or less D 40m from hazard if grade >2%
* regulatory signs not shown Infoboards are Figurealso appropriate 4.03: Signage places placement to include plan maps, indicate some particular feature or some unusual ** excludes object marker signs trail etiquette information, information about amenities condition. These should follow the same principles of (ie washrooms), natural or cultural attractions, and communication and appear to be of the same family Infoboard In the context of Toronto's dense urban trails network, possibly community bulletins. as the preceding six sign types. An example of a Infoboards are used to communicate aShade signiicant Tree there are additional points that should be included: Shade Tree miscellaneous sign is a trail etiquette sign. amount of wayinding and trail condition information Figure 4.02: Signage placement and content Infoboards should be located at all trail entry points to trail users. Some of this information is required by • distance to the next trail exit/entrance in each and trail crossings. They should be installed partway Event signs or interpretive signs may also occur. They accessibility legislation, and must be presented in an direction, and to crossings with other trails (including along any stretch of trail that continues for more than may follow a variety of possible formats, but should all accessible format. These items are: accessibility information for exits or crossing facilities) Interpretation Signage four kilometres without the occurrence of any of the adhere to principles of Universal Design, and should Interpretation Signage • where a trail entrance/exit is not fully accessible, mentioned locations where an infoboard might be be located in accordance with these guidelines. • the length of the trail this must be stated on the infoboard or another sign, Fence required. Placement of miscellaneous signs will vary depending Fence • the type of1.0m surface min. of which the trail is constructed along with information directing potential trail users 1.0m min. Trail Clearance on what is being identiied by the sign. Trail Clearance • the average and the minimum trail width to the nearest fully accessible entrance/exit Where a cluster of amenities is provided for trail users, • the average and maximum running slope and cross • Area presence of Special or absence of lighting Area of Special Interest an infoboard should be considered. Miscellaneous sign types should not be used to warn Interest slope • seasonal closures or potential seasonal closures trail users of hazardous conditions. Instead, a Warning • the location of1.0m amenities, min. where provided 1.0m min. Miscellaneous Signs Sign should be used. • accessibility informationBench Clearance Bench Clearance Special situations may call for unique signs to Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
80 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 81 7.1.2. Pavement Markings 7.2. Grade Separations and
7 All new trails should be provided with centre lines. Structures The default approach should be a broken green line. Solid lines may be used on the approaches to crossing 7.2.1. Access Stairs and Ramps important, and all new or upgraded trail accesses and curves or in other areas to reinforce the intention (including switchbacks) should seek to satisfy at least the most current that trail users should keep to the right. Other colours legislated accessibility requirements; care should of lines, solid or dashed, and even combinations of Access stairs and ramps are important parts of trail be taken that the trail being accessed is also lines of different colours may be utilized as part of a systems. They are necessary for providing access to accessible. design theme for trails. The Lake Ontario waterfront trail trails from adjacent areas at higher or lower elevations, uses parallel, solid blue and green lines, for example. and in some cases for connecting two separate trail • Ramps should be designed to meet and exceed Ontario Building Code1 and the Integrated facilities. Access stairs and ramps should be treated 2 STOP BARS differently from linear trail facilities, and should not Accessibility Standards Regulation Guidelines Stop bars should be placed adjacent to any stop signs interrupt continuous trail alignments. where possible. These include all of the Creative use of pavement markings to indicate or at signalized intersections along the trail, and should dimensional requirements for stairs and ramps as the path of travel through a refuge island at the well as requirements for surfaces, guards, handrails be white. See chapter 5 for additional info. intersection of the Lower Don Trail and Pottery Road A few general guidelines can be applied: and most other components. DESIGNATION SYMBOLS WORD MARKINGS • It is broadly desirable to maximize the number • Where a switchback is desired, it should be Designation symbols typically communicate shared-use, Word markings may be used to warn trail users about of access points to and from trails; priority should designed to conform with the requirements for or single use. At minimum, designation symbols should conditions ahead, reinforcing warning signs, but be given to providing accesses that are most ramps that are noted above. Avoid design features be placed at the beginning of a trail, the entrance to any not replacing them. They should be placed between convenient for the greatest number of people; a that encourage or facilitate fast cycling (long, stage of a crossing, and shortly after a crossing. They can the warning sign and the condition being identiied second priority may be given to locations that are straight runs, greater widths) because the turning also be placed at intervals along the length of a trail to to reinforce the warning. Word markings should be considered “quick wins.” radii used for switchbacks are not suitable for such remind trail users to keep to the right. Directional arrows composed as they would be on a page of text, with a use. subsequent lines placed to be visible at once. The are used in conjunction with designation symbols in most • Providing universal accesses that can be navigated colour should be white. See chapter 5 for their use situations except for at crossings. by users with a wide range of abilities is very near crossings. Shade Tree CROSS-HATCHES Shade Tree SYMBOLS Cross-hatches may be used to indicate waiting areas Symbols are preferable to word markings where possible. or to demarcate areas outside of the trail but on a The colour should be white. common surface. Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage DIRECTIONAL ARROWS SOLID COLOURED AREAS These may be placed at intersections or near tight Earlier in this report, solid coloured areas and imprinted Fence Fence curves to help1.0m prevent min. conlicts by reminding trail users and coloured areas have been recommended for 1.0m min. of their correctTrail positions. Clearance They may also be used at trail enhancing visibility or for providing trail calming at Trail Clearance entrances or along the trail. The colour should be white. crossingsArea of Special and some other situations. These should Area of Special generallyInterest be provided in a contrasting colour, but usually Interest A ramp connecting the Eglinton Access stairs with channels for carrying not white or yellow as symbols or lines in these colours 1.0m min. West Trail to an overpass bicycles, at Mallaby Park 1.0m min. Bench Clearance may need to overlay them. Bench Clearance 1 http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page7393.aspx Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas 2 http://www.mcss.gov.on.ca/documents/en/mcss/accessibility/DOPS%20Guidelines%20 (short)%20FINAL%20April%202014%20EN-s.pdf 82 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 83 • Both stairs and ramps can be installed as in-ground coordinating amenities such as seating or water • A minimum guard height of 1.37 metres is required or elevated structures. Elevated structures, though bottle illers at these locations is recommended. on both sides; some circumstances may call for a 7 more costly are preferable (especially for stairs) taller guard; the guard should be non-climbable. due to a somewhat reduced construction impact in • Wayinding sign placement should include, at natural areas, longer service life, and the ability to minimum, clear decision or direction signs at the • Where a bridge’s width is less than the recommended maintain existing drainage patterns. top and bottom of all stairs (for trail users entering width, the guard should be provided with a non- or exiting at these locations); provision of map and metallic (wood or plastic) guide rail; taller guards • Generally, a clear width of two metres between information signs and accessibility information should be considered; the terminations of guards at handrails is appropriate as it permits two users to is recommended on the side of the facility that either end of the bridge should be lared out beyond pass in opposite directions and does not trigger a constitutes an entrance to the trail system. the lateral clearance area, and warning signage code requirement for a centre handrail. A bridge on the Finch Hydro Corridor Trail should be provided; trail calming measures are also • It is recommended that stairs be provided with recommended. • Because these facilities are not considered part channels for bicycles and other wheeled devices of the linear trail, they are not usually widened such as strollers. These should be constructed 7.2.2. Bridges • The preferred surface on a bridge is bare, non- to accommodate heavier use (although this can from visually-contrasting materials, and should not In this section, bridges are discussed as a continuous slip concrete and weathering steel decks are also be considered); instead, extra space should be obstruct pedestrian use of the hand grab on either component of a linear pathway facility. Where a bridge acceptable and frequently used. The latter is provided at landings to allow users to rest, to enjoy side. These should be on both sides, if feasible, and is accessed via stairs or ramps as discussed above, especially useful where the bridge is narrower than the view or to wait for the way ahead to become should be approximately 0.2 metres wide. A raised it becomes part of the grade separation and may be the path. The premium surface is asphalt pavement clear; this also requires clear sight lines from one lip (approximately 0.05m) can help to keep wheels governed by those requirements instead. All bridges over a concrete deck because it provides continuity landing to the next, or preferably from the top to the on the channel and make it more visible. Channels will require detailed structural design, and will normally with the trail surface. Wood decking has also been bottom of the entire stair or ramp. should connect smoothly with any landings. require consultation with the authority responsible for used. It is often considered appropriate for natural the area being crossed (conservation or road authority, areas, but care must be taken to use a durable, • At the top and bottom of stairs and ramps, there • Stair and ramp combinations may also be for example). For initial planning, the following guidelines chemical-free, non-slip wood decking product, should be space for trail users to set up or orient considered to provide choices for trail users and a apply: aligned perpendicular to the direction of travel. themselves; this should be a minimum of three or combination of access and convenience. preferably ive metres from the edge of the trail; • The preferred width of the bridge (between the • All horizontal requirements for trails may be applied guards) is the trail width plus lateral clearance areas to bridges. (refer to chapter 4). Shade Tree Shade Tree
Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage
Fence Fence 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance Area of Special Area of Special Interest Interest
1.0m min. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance
Figure 3.08: Lateral clearancesView of for the rest Humber stops or Bridgeother trail connecting amenity areas the Martin Goodman Trail over the mouth of the Humber River Gatineau Hydro Corridor Trail bridging over Highland Creek near Thompson Memorial Park Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
84 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 85 7.2.3. Tunnels and Underpasses guard, and warning signage should be provided; trail • Luminaires should be a full-cutoff design, providing calming measures are also recommended. appropriate illumination levels, with minimal spill of 7 In this section, as with bridges, tunnels are discussed light off of the trail surface. (Refer to OTM18.) • The trail surface is preferably carried through the as a continuous component of a linear pathway facility. tunnel uninterrupted. Where a tunnel is accessed via stairs or ramps, it • Given the preceding requirements, light posts will becomes part of the grade separation and may be • Sightlines should allow for clear surveillance of the usually be spaced at approximately 25 metres apart. governed by those requirements instead. All tunnels will entire tunnel from one end to the other, and care • Lamps should be energy eficient, long-lasting and require detailed structural design. For initial planning, should be given to preventing hiding spots or ambush provide good colour rendering. LED lamps should the following guidelines apply: points; lighting should be provided where possible. be considered for new lighting, but may not be • A tunnel should be the shortest length possible, with • For drainage, a high point is preferably located in the appropriate for retroitting existing trail lights if the no curves or bends. middle of a tunnel, and the trail surface is crowned, existing equipment and/or infrastructure is not ensuring any water will run out at the edges; the compatible. • The preferred width of the tunnel is the trail width ground adjacent to the openings of the tunnel should plus lateral clearance areas (refer to chapter 4). be graded to provide positive drainage away from the • Consider energy-saving approaches such as timers, • Reducing the slope of a tunnel approach improves entrance. Drain inlets or catch basins are preferably motion sensors, and user-activated lights. safety for trail users and maximizes daylight entering outside of the tunnel and away from the trail. Light standards along Martin Goodman Trail • Locate electrical cabinets where they can be easily the tunnel (refer to chapter 4). • A gutter or fence should be installed above the waterfront promenade at Marilyn Bell Park accessed by maintenance vehicles; ensure that • A tunnel should meet the same overhead clearance opening of the tunnel to divert runoff or other debris access doors face the trail at a distance where requirements as trails. from falling on the trail. Where lighting is not included, trail designers should neither the doors nor an operator would encroach consider lighting the entrances and exits and any into the lateral clearance area of the trail. • Where a tunnel’s width is less than the recommended intersections, if this can be done without creating the width, the walls should be provided with non-metallic impacts described above. A trail should not be only Professional lighting and electrical design is required (wood or plastic) guide rails; the terminations of walls 7.3. Lighting partially lit between access points, as this can create for trail lighting, and certiication by the Electrical Safety at either end should be lared out beyond the lateral hazardous situations for trail users expecting a trail to Authority (ESA) is also necessary. clearance area (this may be done with a fence or Lighting trails can signiicantly increase the utility of be fully lit. In other words, if part of a trail cannot be lit, a trail by extending the hours where trail users will the rest of the trail should not be lit. This does not apply Where trails are not lit, it is recommended to provide this be comfortable on a trail. Every proposed new or to lighting in tunnels or underpasses. information on signs or infoboards at trail entrances. Shade Tree upgraded trail should be considered independently and Shade Tree in consultation with stakeholders, before a decision is The following points should be considered: made to light it. 7.4. Resting and Viewing • Pole-and-arm mountings are preferred over post-top Areas LightingInterpretation is Signage recommended for multi-use trails, styles, and bollard-style lights should not be used Interpretation Signage except where lighting would impact sensitive because they are easily vandalized. Resting and viewing areas are similar types of areas, differentiated only by a subtle difference in use. Resting wildlifeFence activities, invite trail users into dangerous Fence 1.0m min. situations, or where lighting would conlict with • Light poles must be located outside of lateral areas are designed and situated simply to provide a 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance special requirements (in hydro corridors, for example). clearance areas, and consistently on one side of the resting space for trail users, whereas viewing areas are Area of Special trail only. located strategically with regard to some feature, and Area of Special ExcludingInterest lighting on the grounds of potential nuisances Interest designed to accommodate that activity. A few simple is not recommended, as nuisances may be discouraged • Luminaires should be mounted so that their 1.0m min. by other means. guidelines and suggestions can help to ensure that these 1.0m min. Bench Clearance inished height is no lower than 4.5 metres above the elements function well. Bench Clearance The Rainbow Tunnel at the East Don Trail trail surface (this is primarily to prevent vandalism, Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas but also results in luminaires that are outside of the Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas vertical clearance areas). 86 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 87 7
Viewing area along Martin Goodman Resting area on the Don Mills Trail Trail at Ashbridges Bay south of Lawrence Avenue East Trailhead amenities at the Finch Hydro Corridor Trail Trailhead design at the Don Mills Trail
Resting and viewing areas should both… Resting areas should… • Trailheads are a good opportunity to establish the • be considered signiicant opportunities to improve • be located on both sides of the trail, visible from 7.5. Trailheads identity of a trail. trail experiences for all users; each other. This is so trail users moving on either Trailheads can be developed as resting or viewing areas direction can enter resting areas without crossing Additionally, proper design of trailheads can help to • be designed with an accessible surface that is that happen to be located at trail entrances. As they the trails. reduce undesired vehicle access onto trails. continuous with the pathway surface, but which is additionally function as staging and meeting areas, a few either cane-detectable and visually contrasting, or is additional guidelines apply: 7.6. Passing Areas separated from the trail by such a surface; Viewing areas should… • Additional space should be provided for staging and • be provided with caution signs in both directions, as • be designed with ample space for trail users to rest meeting activities. Passing areas are simply widened parts of a trail, and stage a variety of activities without obstructing trail users will cross the trail to access the viewing continuous with the trail surface. They are located the pathway (bicycle repairs, map-reading, etc.); area; • Fencing or rails should be considered as elements strategically at areas where slower users can move Shade Tree to help guide trail users to the trail entrance and aside (to the right) and allow faster users to pass on Shade Tree • be generally planned to optimize and preserve • be delineated by a fence, rail or landscaping where reduce short-cutting through natural areas. their left. The minimum widening should be 0.3 metres sightlines to the feature; located within natural areas; on each side of the trail, and should be increased to • If the trail continues through or adjacent to the • be provided with a portion of seating arranged to accommodate higher use or higher levels of potential or • be provided with ample seating arranged in a variety trailhead, it should be very clearly marked. Interpretation Signage reported conlicts. Passing areas should be at least ive Interpretation Signage of conigurations for small groups or individuals. view the feature; and • Wayinding signage should be located near the to ten metres long, and should be signed with an info • be provided with informational or interpretational • be provided with waste and recycling containers, Fence entrances to the trailhead, and at the point or points sign placed adjacent to the start of the widened part of Fence 1.0m min. signage. 1.0m min. generally Trailin a Clearance periphery area so noxious smells and where the trail departs the area. the trail. Trail Clearance wasps do not become a nuisance; RestingArea of and Special viewing areas are excellent opportunities Area of Special • Additional urban design improvements, such as Passing areas should be implemented in the following for provisionInterest of additional or enhanced trail amenities. Interest • be provided with an infoboard sign when practical; gateways or public art features are appropriate. situations: and 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance • Supportive facilities such as bicycle repair stations Bench Clearance • be provided with a shaded area and shelter from • where trails intersect or merge, leading to a localized and water bottle illers may be considered as well. area of high use; Figure 3.08: Lateral clearancesrain for where rest stops possible. or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
88 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 89 • on slopes; Bench and bicycle locking post adjacent to the Gatineau Hydro Corridor Trail near McCowan Road 7 • in areas of restricted visibility such as densely vegetated areas or sharp curves in the trail; • intermittently through areas where trail widths are less than desired; and/or • adjacent to, or occasionally in place of fully-developed resting and viewing areas.
7.7. Site Furnishings
Site furnishings provide important amenities for trail Bench and bicycle locking post users and sometimes perform other duties that improve adjacent to the Don Mills Trail Waste and recycling bins at the East Don Trail the function or operation of a trail (such as providing • site furnishings will be comfortable, universally landmarks for wayinding, demarcation of sensitive accessible and aesthetically pleasing; be two benches for every trail entrance and for every Waste and recycling bins are another ubiquitous and environments, or other functions). These elements also 200 metres of trail, and increasing with higher volumes useful item of site furniture. Selection of bins should • site furnishings will be consistent along any one help to create an identity for each trail and to designate of use. be based upon the location of the trail. Those in public trail or through a given area of special character; rights-of-way should conform to the Coordinated Street trails as public spaces in the city. Where benches are provided, they should be provided on • site furnishings will be durable, resistant to abuse Furniture Program, and those in parks should conform As many trails are in parklands or are managed primarily both sides of the trail to reduce crossing-over. In natural and low-maintenance; and to Solid Waste Management Services parks litter bin by the Parks, Forestry and Recreation division, most site environment or other areas with unsuitable conditions, collection program. furnishings will conform to the standards implemented • site furnishings will be situated appropriately fewer benches may be appropriate. In such cases, the for parks. Some areas, such as within ravines and designer should consider clustering benches at trail Waste bins should only be provided in locations where they valleys, will make use of equipment and materials that Benches are one of the most common site furniture entrances or other key areas. can be accessed by staff responsible for emptying them. element. They come in a variety of conigurations and Priority should be given to trail entrances, trailheads, conform to practices of the Urban Forestry section or the Placement of benches should usually face the trail, TRCA. Written standards are not currently Shadeavailable, Tree so styles. Selection of benches should be based upon the trail-road intersections, trail-trail intersections, rest stops Shade Tree location of the trail. Those in public rights-of-way should except where located as part of a resting or viewing and viewing areas. Bins should be located at a distance designers should consult the appropriate divisional staff area or trailhead. Benches should be mounted on a for a given site. conform to the Coordinated Street Furniture Program, from seating or gathering areas to reduce smell and and those in parks should conform to Parks, Forestry hard surface that is accessible and continuous with the insect nuisances. trail surface, but which is either made of or separated Some trails may be installed in or adjacent to road andInterpretation Recreations Signage standards. For trails in special areas Interpretation Signage rights-of-way, and in such cases furnishings should such as BIA's or "signature" parks, or for trails in any by a cane-detectable and visually-contrasting material. Placement of waste bins should face the trail, except conform to the Toronto Coordinated Street Furniture Suficient leg and standing room (1 metre) should where they are part of a resting or viewing area or of Fence the "exemplary" classes, alternative standards Fence Program1. For1.0m elements min. not governed by the program, may apply, or custom seating solutions and space for be provided in front of the bench and outside of the trailhead. Bins should be mounted on a hard surface 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance designers can consult the Streetscape Manual2 that is bicycles may be considered. lateral clearance area. It can be beneicial to provide an that is accessible and continuous with the trail surface, Area of Special expanded hard surface adjacent to the bench for mobility but which is either made of or separated by a cane- Area of Special maintained by The City of Toronto’s Urban Design section. Interest Interest Benches should be provided at intervals along trails, devices, strollers, etc. detectable and visually-contrasting material. Suficient individually or in groups. A suggested frequency would standing room (1 metre) should be provided in front of 1.0m min. This section can be applied to other forms of seating as 1.0m min. Bench Clearance the bin and outside of the lateral clearance area. Bench Clearance 1 http://www1.toronto.ca/wps/portal/contentonly?vgnextoid=cb5a8d0195ce1410VgnVCM10000071d60f89RCRD well, such as boulders or logs. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances2 http://www1.toronto.ca/wps/portal/contentonly?vgnextoid=0e88036318061410VgnVCM10000071d60f89RC for rest stops or other trail amenity areas RD#SpecialAreas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
90 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 91 Bicycle locking posts, where provided, should conform to the Coordinated Street Furniture Program. For trails 7 in special areas such as BIA's or "signature" parks, or for trails in any of the "exemplary" classes, alternative standards may apply, or custom bicycle parking solutions may be considered. Bicycle racks should be selected to be durable and attractive, and well-coordinated with nearby furnishings. Priority for bicycle parking associated with trails should be given for areas adjacent to destinations or to other transportation modes such as subway stations, however many of these will provide bicycle parking facilities. Otherwise, trailheads, rest stops and viewing areas are Large shelter at Port Union Waterfront Park Tree planting along Martin Goodman Elevated Wetlands sculptures adjacent to the all suitable places to provide bicycle parking. Trail near Woodbine Park Lower Don Trail and the Don Valley Parkway Climate protection includes both shade provision and Placement of bicycle parking should be arranged so that shelter from rain or other precipitation. Shade provision Shade shelters are usually appropriate only at the trail surface, it should not constitute an unsafe neither the parked bicycles, nor the cyclist parking or is considered a priority as the physical nature of trail signiicant locations such as trailheads or resting and distraction for trail users and it should not encroach retrieving a bicycle should occupy any part of the trail or use can compound the risks of exposure to heat. Shade viewing areas. Feasibility of providing shelters should into lateral or vertical clearance areas, and it should lateral clearance area. Facilities should be mounted on may be provided by tree planting (including planning be considered each time such an area is implemented not block trail users' sight lines. a hard surface that is accessible and continuous with the the trail and associated facilities to take advantage of or upgraded. trail surface, but which is either made of or separated by existing trees) or it may be provided by shade shelters. • public art can be integrated into trail surfaces, trail- a cane-detectable and visually-contrasting material. Well Reference should be made to the Toronto Parks, Forestry Water provision should be considered at all trailheads side amenities, fences, and other features along and sited bicycle parking can also provide a visual cue to help and Recreation's Shade Provision Design Standards*. and trail accesses where feasible. It is recommended near trails, but should not compromise functionality prevent unwanted vehicular access on trails. for rest stops and viewing areas where practical. Water or safety of the trail. Tree planting should be undertaken outside of the lateral provision should typically take the form of water bottle clearance areas, in the locations where the best shade illers rather than drinking fountains. Parks, Forestry results can be obtained—the south and west. Allowances and Recreation has standard preferences for these Shade Tree should be made for tree growth, and the trees selected items. Shade Tree should be appropriately-sized, native species suitable for the conditions of the planting site and acceptable to the Public art should be included in all "exemplary" trails, Urban Forestry branch. and at other locations where possible. Toronto's Cultural Services branch, within the Economic Development Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage Shade shelters may have slatted or solid roofs, however & Culture Division is responsible for selection and solid roofs are preferable as they can also provide procurement of public art. Integrating public art into Fence Fence 1.0m min. shelter against precipitation. Selection and design trails should consider the following: 1.0m min. Trail Clearance should prefer durable, easily maintained materials Trail Clearance andArea construction, of Special and should consider the risks of • generally the best opportunities will be at trailheads, Area of Special vandalism.Interest Placement should optimize shade, and trail entrances, rest and viewing areas, and crossings Interest should take into account sightlines for nearby trails. of various types. 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance • public art should not compromise the function of the Bench Clearance Bicycle locking posts along the West Toronto Resting area at the Martin Goodman Trail trail, it should not affect accessibility or suitability of waterfront promenade in Marilyn Bell Park Figure 3.08: Lateral clearancesRailpath for nearrest stops Bloor or GOother Station trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas *This document has yet to be completed and released. 92 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 93 7.8. Personal Security • provide escape routes and reduce entrapment areas; 7.9. Temporary Conditions 7 and Well-designed and maintained trails can bring more • provide means to identify one's location to emergency All trails will be subject to some form of restriction at people into remote areas, and by doing so improve both services. some point in time, whether due to construction repair or real and perceived public safety in those areas. some other condition. Dealing appropriately with these These can generally be achieved very easily within the conditions will reduce trail users' exposure to hazards Personal security of trail users should not be guidelines already provided. Some speciic steps include: and inconveniences. Planning for temporary conditions compromised by design. This includes security from is to be carried out by qualiied professionals. both perceived and actual danger. The principles of Crime 1 • Identify any signiicant sightline obstructions or hiding Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) can Temporary conditions should be signed using standard places within ten metres of the trail, and remove be beneicially applied. orange-on-black warning signage (custom signs as shown them if feasible (in natural environment areas for at right are also acceptable). The signage should indicate: In general, trail designers should seek to maintain sight example, removal of all brush within 10 metres of a lines and eliminate hiding places: trail is usually not feasible or desirable). Warning signage and detour information at • the type of closure or restriction; Martin Goodman Trail near Leslie Street • maximize views in and out of trail areas (surveillance); • Provide mirrors or trail widening at blind corners • detour routes (with maps) or actions such as "keep to such as the exits of tunnels or bridges; or consider left/right" or "proceed with caution;" blocking off possible hiding places associated with Where possible, a partial closure or restricted access is preferable to a full closure. Where a full closure these areas by providing tall, see-through fencing • the length of trail affected; and for a short distance beyond the blind corners. Take is necessary, a detour route should be planned and advantage of the presence of neighbouring streets, • the expected duration of the closure. communicated with a sign. parks, businesses or residences by facilitating views The signs should be placed as soon as the conditions Detour routes into the trail from those areas. should be planned to be the least become known, or in the case of planned closures signs inconvenient for the majority of trail users, and should • Provide lighting using lamps that give accurate colour should be placed a minimum of two weeks before the take into consideration signiicant downstream rendering. closure. destinations and network connections. In some cases, multiple detour routes may be useful. Detour routes may • Maximize frequency of escape routes (breaks in Signs should be removed immediately upon re-opening make use of on-road cycling and pedestrian facilities, and Shade Tree fencing or walls on at least one side of the trail) and the trail. If the signs apply to only part of the day or should provide a safe alternative during construction. Shade Tree trail accesses/intersections (targets are 50 and 200 are otherwise intermittent, this information should be metres, respectively). included, and covering the signs when the conditions of Special event closures are ideally restricted to areas away closure are not present should be considered. • Do not shape the fencing at viewing areas or from multi-use trails or to multi-use trails with "twinned" Interpretationtrailheads Signagein such a way that it channels trail users facilities that have been designed to accommodate Interpretation Signage Signage should be provided at trail access points and into a dead-end situation where they may become such events. Where these will restrict access to trails before the closest decision point in advance of the Fencetrapped. or constitute an inconvenience for trail users, a detour Fence 1.0m min. closure, or at the beginning of any designated detour should be provided. 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance Prior to commencing design of upgrades or rehabilitation route. Area of Special Area of Special of an existingInterest trail, a community safety audit should be Seasonal closures, or frequent seasonal hazards such Interest Hidden access points, such as this one along Conirmation-type signage along the detour route is the West Toronto Railpath, can act as hiding undertaken. This is a voluntary step that can positively as lash loods or no winter maintenance, should be places 1.0m min. inluence the design of the trail, but which applies best recommended if the detour is over one kilometre or indicated on permanent signage as well as on temporary 1.0m min. Bench Clearance to improving existing situations, rather than to designing passes other decision points. signage when the closure is active. Bench Clearance new trails. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances1 http://cptedontario.ca/ for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
94 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 95 8 Construction of Multi-Use Trails This section provides broad guidance related to the con- Urban Forestry, as well as general compliance with the CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION AND FOLLOW-UP struction of multi-use trails. All activities should conform City of Toronto Tree Protection Policy and Speciications to the speciic requirements and procedures of the divi- for Construction near Trees.1 Prior to commencing construction, the owner, contractor sion or section leading the implementation of any par- and consultant should meet to review the project ticular trail development project. It is important that the contractor have extensive requirements and review site conditions. A schedule for experience constructing trails, especially when working regular construction meetings should be established, This section is intended to be read in conjunction with in natural environment areas. and inspections scheduled at project milestones to the Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Construc- ensure that the design intent is followed through to tion Document Supplement, which incorporates many Where trails are constructed near trees or tree roots, a certiied arborist shall be retained by the contractor to completion. It is also important to verify site access, of the details and speciications that will make up a staging, fencing and sequencing of works at this time. construction document package, and provides samples supervise construction activities in the vicinity of existing trees, especially during excavation, and to undertake any taken from recent projects. The supplement makes ex- At or near completion of construction, an inspection pruning or tree services that may be required. tensive use of Toronto Standard Drawings and Speciica- of the works will be conducted with involvement of tions and Ontario Provincial Standard Details and Speci- For trails in natural areas, the general contractor should be representatives from any groups responsible for ications, and also includes a selection of details created able to demonstrate experience building trails in natural maintenance and operation of the trail. This meeting to relect the content of these guidelines. areas and should have the services of both a certiied need not be simultaneous with the inspection for arborist and an experienced and qualiied restoration substantial completion, but should be done at a point PROFESSIONAL SERVICES contractor to perform restoration of any impacted areas. where adjustments to the work can still be made. A qualiied professional construction administrator The general contractor should be required, by contract, Post-construction activities primarily rely on reporting should be retained to supervise construction. In most to have a supervisor on site at all times to ensure that from the maintenance and operations staff of any cases it is preferable for the designing professional to work, including the work of sub-contractors, is performed problems that develop. At the end of the required be retained for these services to ensure continuity, according to the project requirements. warranty period (usually one year) a inal inspection eficiency, and effective quality control. should be undertaken and any remaining deiciencies promptly corrected. Shade Tree Additional professional services for inspection and testing Shade Tree should be carried out by a qualiied, third-party irm CONSTRUCTION BUDGET CONTINGENCIES retained either by the Owner or by the Contractor from In addition to the price agreed for the work to be a cash allowance or similar arrangement. For most trail completed, funding should be set aside for the testing construction projects, the testing required will be limited to Interpretation sieve testing Signage of granular materials and compaction and inspections noted earlier, and for unexpected Interpretation Signage testing of sub-grades, bases and asphalt pavements. circumstances that may arise during construction. Fence Typically ten percent of the construction cost is Fence 1.0m min. recommended, however this should be increased 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance in natural areas or on lands heavily encumbered by CONTRACTORArea of Special REQUIREMENTS Area of Special Interest utilities. Interest The Contractor must be informed of and be required by 1.0m min. contract to adhere to any requirements of approvals or 1.0m min. Bench Clearance any regulations that may be in force. Speciic approvals Construction site of a park trail at Goldhawk Park Bench Clearance from the Tree Protection and Plan Review section of Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas 1 http://www1.toronto.ca/city_of_toronto/parks_forestry__recreation/urban_forestry/iles/pdf/TreeProtSpecs.pdf Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Construction site at Martin Goodman Trail waterfront96 promenadeToronto Multi-Use at Marilyn Trail Design Bell Guidelines Park Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 97 Maintenance Considerations for 9 Multi-Use Trails Maintenance requirements and programs should be established for all facilities and included in annual operational budgets and considered during the design process.
The classiication system described earlier is intended to assist with identifying an appropriate class for any selected section of trail, whether planned or already existing. From this identiication of class, existing trails can be assessed, maintenance activities can be planned, and needed upgrades prioritized. The intended result is that in time, all exist- ing trails will: • be improved to meet the requirements of this guideline; • be maintained in that condition; and • be able to evolve as needs change over time.
DIVISIONAL JURISDICTIONS not be relied upon for regular maintenance activities It is recommended that maintenance responsibilities be in most situations. Instead volunteer activities established on a per-task-basis, city-wide. This will help (coordinated by appropriate staff) could be used for less to ensure a consistent approach across all facilities. critical tasks such as litter collection or invasive plant removal, or to take pressure off of maintenance workers It is also expected to simplify management and where volunteer resources are plentiful, allowing these budgeting. Ideally, divisions with parallel responsibilities regular resources to be redirected to areas needing would undertake the parallel tasks that apply to trail more or special attention. facilities. This would take advantage of existing tool, equipment and material inventories, existing skill-sets INSPECTIONS AND AUDITS Shade Tree among current staff and operational eficiencies that All trails should be inspected regularly to identify any Shade Tree have already been established. needed repairs. A complete trail audit should be performed prior to signiicant scheduled repairs, using These guidelines make no speciic recommendation the audit forms adjunct to these guidelines. with regard to which City of Toronto Divisions should Interpretation Signage Interpretation Signage undertake any particular maintenance task that may If regular trail maintenance and repairs are divided be recommended, however it is recommended that a between divisions, then regular inspections can be Fence Fence 1.0m min. consistent approach be taken with regard to the various carried out by each division in the course of other 1.0m min. Trail Clearance maintenance tasks. maintenance work. Alternately inspections could be Trail Clearance Area of Special carried out as stand-alone activities performed by a Area of Special Interest VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES small team of staff representing each of the divisions Interest Involving community members and trail users in involved in trail maintenance. 1.0m min. 1.0m min. Bench Clearance the maintenance of trails helps to build a sense of Bench Clearance stewardship and ownership. Volunteer efforts should Assessments shall also be conducted regularly for Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas possible tree hazards related to trail targets. Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
MaintenanceToronto vehicle Multi-Use near Port Trail UnionDesign GuidelinesWaterfront Park Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 99 AS-NEEDED REPAIRS • drain clearing (clearing vegetation debris and/or • resurfacing (spot repairs of signiicant pavement • pavement replacement (full-depth trail replacement; Identifying as-needed repairs can be done by staff and ice from drain inlets, culverts and swales; useful for problems and overlay of entire surface; this is an this is an opportunity to make minor adjustments to 9 supervisors during the course of regular maintenance identifying drainage problems) opportunity to make minor adjustments to trail trail widths or alignments and should be preceded duties. Providing a way for trail users to report problems widths or alignments and should be preceded by a by a complete trail audit; this activity triggers should also be considered (such as through the 311 complete trail audit) compliance with accessibility legislation) service). SEASONAL MAINTENANCE Seasonal maintenance activities may include: • drainage improvements (de-silting swales and • Signiicant scheduled improvements or replacements Priority for as-needed repairs is partly related to the permeable pavements, lushing catch basins, drain to the trail surface should be viewed as opportunities severity of the problem and the risks or hazards • spring clean-up (clearing of vegetation debris, litter lines and culverts) to re-assess and if necessary change the class of a and silt that may have accumulated over the winter trail (in any direction). associated with it. It is also a function of the trail in • sign repair and replacement question. Higher-use trails should be given priority. or during the snow-melt period, identiication and repair of any minor problems with trail surface and REGULAR AND ROUTINE MAINTENANCE facilities) Regular maintenance activities are those that are • snow clearing (only on designated trails; in natural performed on regular rotation throughout the year, and areas special restrictions may apply such as leaving may include: a packed snow surface in-place, removing snow from the site, or clearing only part of the trail) • vegetation clearing (typically pruning of trees and shrubs for parkland areas, but within natural areas • salting (generally not appropriate for natural areas) should consist of carefully removing woody vegetation and selective pruning of tree branches only) SCHEDULED REPAIRS, IMPROVEMENTS AND • mowing (in parkland, this can follow regular park REPLACEMENT mowing schedules, in natural areas, mowing may be Scheduled repairs, improvements and replacements are restricted or not carried out at all, which will need to those that happen on a cycle longer than one year, and be determined on an as-needed basis) may include:
• sweeping (of trail surfaces) • line and symbol painting Shade Tree Shade Tree • litter pick-up (a suitable activity for utilizing volunteer • surface and edge repairs (temporary repairs of efforts) cracks, potholes and edge ravelling; where these • empty waste bins (schedule to be determined by problems are signiicant, they should be escalated responsible division; in parkland or streetscapes this Interpretationto as-needed Signage repairs) Interpretation Signage can follow regular waste bin emptying schedules for • replacing lamps (schedule varies depending on those areas) Fence Fence 1.0m min. the type of lamps used; on heavily-used trails 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Trail Clearance • leaf-blowing (to remove leaf litter and other vegetation replacements should occur when lamp condition Areais such of Special that lighting is below 50% of design levels, Area of Special debris that may accumulate on or adjacent to trail Interest Interest surfaces; should be scheduled in tandem with or to on less-used trails a scheduled replacement of all follow sweeping1.0m activities) min. lamps may be more economic) 1.0m min. Bench Clearance Bench Clearance
Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas Waterfront Trail near Marie Curtis Park Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas
100 Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines Toronto Multi-Use Trail Design Guidelines 101 Current Bikeway Network
MIDDLEFIELD MIDDLEFIELDRD STEELES AVE E TAPSCOTT RD STEELES AVE E STEELES AVE E STEELES AVE E STEELES AVE E FENMAR DR STEELES AVE E STEELES AVE W DON MILLS RD
ALNESS ST GARYRAY DR
HILDA AVE MOUNT OLIVE DR MILLWICK DR PASSMORE AVE
DYNAMIC DR
MARTIN GROVERD MILLWICK DR HULLMAR DR GORDON BAKER RD
ORMONTSIGNETDR DR NEWTON DR BEARE RD ALBION RD JANE ST PATRICIA AVE MILVAN DR FENMAR DR PETROLIA RD
NORFINCH DR
TAPSCOTT RD TAPSCOTT
MIDLANDAVE OASIS BLVD TORYORK DR CUMMER AVE MCNICOLL AVE MIDDLEFIELD RD MCNICOLL AVE
DREWRY AVE DREWRY AVE CUMMER AVE CUMMER AVE HUNTSMILL BLVD MCCOWAN RD PLUG HAT RD LESLIE ST FENMAR DR FLINT RD
PHARMACY AVE
ALNESS ST DUFFERIN ST
SIGNET DR NASHDENE RD
MAXOME AVE
TAPSCOTT RD PICKERING TOWN LINE
FINCH AVE W
CARRIER DR HUMBERLINE DR
CHAMPAGNE DR BRIMLEY RD KENNEDY RD OLD FINCH AVE FINCH AVE E
HIGHWAY 27HIGHWAY S FINCH AVE E OLD FINCH AVE
FINCH AVE E LITTLES RD PHARMACY AVE PHARMACY
DONMILLS RDE
SENTINEL RD FINCHDENE SQ CHURCHILL AVE OVERBROOK PL
WILMINGTON AVE STEEPROCK DR VAN HORNE AVE OAKDALE RD DRBRIAN CERAMIC RD TAPSCOTT RD PARK HOME AVE HUPFIELDMCLEVIN TRL AVE CROW TRL MCLEVIN AVE
JANE ST
ARROW RD WILFREDAVE
KIPLING AVE KENNETHAVE HAWKSBURY DR MELFORD DR BRENYON WAY DON MILLS RD W BAYVIEW AVE
WILLOWDALEAVE MIDDLEFIELD RD
REXDALE BLVD PHARMACYAVE SENLAC RD MCLEVIN AVE
WESTON RD ARROW RD OAKDALE RD SHEPPARD AVE W WICKSON TRL BONIS AVE NUGGET AVE WILLIAM R ALLEN RD FLORENCE AVE COMMANDER BLVD
WASHBURN WAY VENTURE DR GILTSPUR DR SHEPPARD AVE E SHEPPARD AVE E
RACINE RD MILNER AVE MILNER AVE ARMOUR BLVD CASS AVE BARTOR RD CONSUMERS RD MILNER AVE UPPER CANADA DR LESMILL RD INVERGORDON AVE MILNER AVE PITFIELD RD MILNER AVE
EXBURY RD NEILSON RD DEAN PARK RD
FENN AVE FENELONDR FIFESHIRE RD TORBARRIE RD BEAVERHALL DR MILNER AVE NEILSONKEELER RD BLVD KEELE ST
PLEWES RD BATHURST ST BETHRIDGE RD CANMORE BLVD
PROGRESSAVE YORK MILLS RD MILITARY TRL WILSON AVE FAYWOOD BLVD PROGRESS AVE DISCO RD TRANSIT RD PROGRESS AVE KNOB HILL DR
KINGSTON RD FRIENDSHIP AVE CLAYSON RD HIGHWAY N 27 YORKDALE RD SAGEWOOD DR ELLESMERE RD ELLESMERE RD ISLAND RD BELFIELD RD ELLESMERE RD MORNINGSIDEAVE MILITARY TRL FALSTAFF AVE BRIDGELAND AVE
ATTWELL DR BROOKBANKS DR
BROOKE AVE CONLINS RD
PORT UNION RD GARY DR AVE CLYDE LAWSON RD
WENDELLAVE RUSTIC RD SLAN AVE RANEE AVE MELROSE AVE LAWSON RD ORFUS RD POST RD MEADOWVALE RD CHURCH ST MAPLE LEAF DR MORRISH RD VARNA DR BRIMORTON DR
RONSON DR CARLINGVIEW DR
CULFORD RD EASTAVE
DIXON RD ELM RD
CALEDONIA RD ORTON PARK RD
UNDERHILL DR
MIDWEST RD
NANTUCKET BLVD AVENUE RD FLEMINGTON RD
WESTON RD PINE ST LAWRENCE AVE W LEDBURY ST LAWRENCE AVE E JEDBURGH RD LAWRENCE AVE E
BIRCHMOUNT RD CURLEW DR ELLINGTON DR
CANLISH RD SCARLETT RD WARDENAVE
MARKHAM RD CENTENNIAL RD HOWDEN RD LAWRENCE AVE E LAWRENCE AVE E PORT UNION RD
CARLINGVIEW DR THE WESTWAY LING RD
MANSE RD THE WESTWAY TYCOS DR BLYTHWOOD RD
SKYWAY AVE SKYWAY INDUSTRY ST INGRAM DR CORONATION DR
MARLEEAVE SHEFFIELD ST CORONATION DR
DON MILLS RD
DUFFERIN ST MARTIN GROVE RD WESTON RD DUPLEXAVE LA ROSE AVE CASTLEFIELD AVE ROSELAWN AVE POPLAR RD
ROYAL YORKROYAL RD ROSELAWN AVE EMMETT AVE SLOANEAVE
MOUNT PLEASANT RD BROADWAY AVE WYNFORD DR DUNELM ST
RANGOON RD
TRUDELLE ST BELLAMY RD N GALLOWAY RD SOUDAN AVE EGLINTON AVE E GUILDWOOD PKWY WELLESWORTH DR ST DENNIS DR WICKSTEED AVE ST DENNIS DR LAMBTON AVE VAUGHAN RD MANOR RD E EGLINTON AVE W EAST DR
SILVERTHORN AVE
LIVINGSTON RD KEELE ST OLD WESTON RD DAVISVILLE AVE MARTIN GROVE RD EDENBRIDGE DR DAVISVILLE AVE ALLIANCE AVE LAIRD DR THE EAST MALL THE KINGSWAY KILBARRY RD MASON RD
THE EAST MALL
ISLINGTONAVE MILLWOOD RD
SPADINA RD MERTON ST MCRAE DR SINNOTT RD DANFORTH RD
ER RD MANVILLE RD
RENFORTH DR HILL CRES LONSDALE RD RATHBURN RD HOLLING
RATHBURN RD PHARMACYAVE NAIRNAVE
OAKWOODAVE HEATH ST W VICTORIA AVE PARK ST CLAIR AVE W ST CLAIR AVE E BRIMLEY RD
ST CLAIR AVE E MIDLANDAVE VARSITY RD ETHEL AVE KINGSTONSLOLEY RD RD O CONNOR DR FERRIS RD DAVENPORT RD WELLANDAVE BURNHAMTHORPE RD DAVENPORT RD PARK ST COSBURN AVE MILL RD ANNETTE ST AVENUE RD DUPONT ST DUPONT ST DAWES RD
DAVENPORT RD BIRCHMOUNT RD GLEN RD MORTIMER AVE HALLAM ST MIDLAND AVE RALEIGH AVE KENNEDY RD
PAPEAVE SAMMON AVE WALLACE AVE BLOOR ST W SECORD AVE MCINTOSH ST
BLOOR ST W BARTON AVE SPADINA RD
KEELE ST MAIN ST
DONLANDSAVE WOODBINEAVE
SHAW ST DENTON AVE
CLENDENANAVE WARDENAVE HIGHAVE PARK DANFORTH AVE
ST GEORGEST ST DANFORTH AVE SOUTH KINGSWAY HOLLIS AVE RUNNYMEDE RD Shade Tree DUNDAS ST W FELSTEAD AVE Shade Tree ADVANCE RD DEWSON ST GERRARD ST E
THE WEST MALL
NORSEMAN ST STBAY
GRACE ST SPADINA AVE SPADINA COLLEGE ST AVE PAPE
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JONESAVE MAIN ST
CARLAWAVE CHURCH ST
DUNDAS ST W JARVIS ST FAIRFORD AVE
BROCKAVE ROYAL YORKROYAL RD PRINCE EDWARD DR S CLONMORE DR TITAN RD BERRY RD AVE ELLIS LOGANAVE GERRARD ST E EASTWOOD RD THE EAST MALL BLEECKER ST
JUTLAND RD DUNDAS ST W PARLIAMENT ST SHERBOURNE ST NORTH QUEEN ST HOMEWOODAVE DUNDAS ST E DUNDAS ST E THE WEST MALL SHUTER ST PARK LAWN RD RONCESVALLESAVE SORAURENAVE QUEEN ST W RICHMOND ST E QUEEN ST E CARLAWAVE QUEEN ST E QUEEN ST E LAKE SHORE BLVD W UNIVERSITYAVE
JONESAVE EASTERN AVE ADELAIDE ST W AVE WINEVA EASTERN AVE KING ST W KING ST E EVANSInterpretation AVE SignageEVANS AVE LIBERTY ST SPADINAAVE Interpretation Signage
FRONT ST W GRANDAVE LAKE SHORE BLVD E VALERMO DR FLEET ST JUDSON ST COMMISSIONERS ST
CHERRY ST YORK ST FenceHORNER AVE HORNER AVE DRUMMOND ST Fence 1.0m min. HORNERAVE high-capacity trail 1.0m min.
Trail Clearance ELDER AVE Trail Clearance
DWIGHTAVE AreaLAKE SHORE of BLVD Special W Area of Special Interest primary trail Interest
1.0m min. secondary trail 1.0m min. Map showing Toronto’s current and plannedBench multi-use Clearance Bench Clearance trail network. Colour-coding shows an approximation existingon-road off-road connection ofFigure how these3.08: Lateral trails wouldclearances be classiied for rest stops according or other totrail amenity areas existing park road Figure 3.08: Lateral clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas the system set forth in chapter 2 Cycling Infrastructure and Programs Transportation Services 0 4,000 8,000 16,000 24,000 dashed line indicatesexisting signed proposed route trail Date created: April 28, 2014 Metres TORONTO MULTI-USE TRAIL DESIGN GUIDELINES
Shade Tree
Interpretation Signage
Fence 1.0m min. Trail Clearance Area of Special Interest 2015January Transportation Services Parks, Forestry & Recreation 1.0m min. Bench Clearance TORONTO MULTI-USE TRAIL DESIGN GUIDELINES FigureJanuary 3.08: Lateral 2015 clearances for rest stops or other trail amenity areas