GUIDELINES MANUAL
Westchester RiverWalk a Greenway Trail
Andrew J. Spano, Westchester County Executive County Board of Legislators
Federal Disclaimer
The preparation of this report has been financed in part through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration under U.S.C. Title 23, and the Federal Transit Administration, under the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century. This document is disseminated under the sponsorship of the Westchester County Department of Transportation in the interest of information exchange. The contents of this report reflect the views of the author who is responsible for the facts and accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the Federal Transit Administration, the Federal Highway Administration or the State of New York. This report does not constitute a standard, specification or regulation.
This project was funded through matching grants from the Federal Highway Administration under PT 2720914 and PT2721915, and Federal Transit Administration under PT272180Z. Andrew J. Spano, Westchester County Executive and County Board of Legislators
CREDITS
Westchester County Department of Planning Gerard E. Mulligan, AICP, Commissioner Patrick Natarelli, Chief Planner Anthony Zaino, Director of Design Robert Lopane, Landscape Architect Paul Gisondo, Associate Planner Jeffrey Williams, Associate Planner
Cherbuliez/Munz, PLLC, Landscape Architects & Site Planners Susan Cherbuliez, ASLA Lucille Munz, RLA Russell Design Associates, Sub-Consultant Karen Greenwood, Graphic Design, Sub-Consultant
2005
On the cover: “View on the Hudson” by John Frederick Kensett, 1865
Technical Report Documentation Page 1. Report No. 2. Government Accession No. 3. Recipient's Catalog No.
4. Title and Subtitle 5. Report Date Westchester RiverWalk – A Greenway Trail March 2005 Design Guidelines 6. Performing Organization Code
7. Author(s) 8. Performing Organization Report No. Cherbuliez/Munz PLLC, Westchester County Planning Dept.
9. Performing Organization Name and Address 10. Work Unit No. (TRAIS) Westchester County Department of Planning 432 Michaelian Office Building 11. Contract or Grant No. White Plains, NY 10601 PT2720914, PT2721915, PT272180Z
12. Sponsoring Agency Name and Address 13. Type of Report and Period Covered Westchester County Department of Transportation 100 East First Street Mount Vernon, NY 10550 14. Sponsoring Agency Code 1803, 1798, 1795 15. Supplementary Notes
16. Abstract The “Westchester RiverWalk Design Guidelines” manual provides a set of standards and design palette for the purpose of providing unity and consistency for its 46-mile length. A consistent set of guidelines is needed because RiverWalk will be constructed in many segments over a period of time, rather than all at once. Each municipality and other entity that plans a trail segment will apply these guidelines by incorporating the standards and amenities that apply to its category of trail, such as an esplanade or trail in a natural area. The goal of this document is to create a cohesive trail that is visually connected, so that users can traverse easily and experience the Hudson River through a unified trailway experience.
17. Key Word 18. Distribution Statement RiverWalk, Hudson River, Trailway, Design Westchester County Department of Planning Guidelines 432 Michaelian Office Building White Plains, NY 10601
19. Security Classif. (of this report) 20. Security Classif. (of this page) 21. No. of Pages 22. Price unclassified unclassified 96
Form DOT F 1700.7 (8-72) Reproduction of completed page authorized A nd see the rivers how they run Through wood and mead, in shade and sun, Sometimes swift, sometimes slow, Wave succeeding wave, they go A various journey to the deep Like human life to endless sleep.
John Dyer: Grongar Hill, 1726 table of Contents
1 Introduction 5
2 How to Use This Manual 9
3 Categories of Trails 13
Multi-Use Trail 14 - Table A 15
Multi-Use Trail Along Roads or in Parking Lots 16 - Table B 17
Pedestrian Trails 18 - Table C-1: In Constrained Area 19 - Table C-2: In Natural Area 20
Bicycle Trail on Road 21 - Table D
Trail Adjacent to Railroad 22 - Table E 23
Trail Where Existing Land Area is Limited 24 - Table F 25
Esplanade 26 - Table G 27
2 TABLE OF CONTENTS table of Contents
4 Amenities 29
Standard Amenities - Signage 30 - Surface Materials 60 - Seating 64 - Bicycle Racks & Trash Receptacles 65 - Lighting 66 - Bollards 67 - Railing & Fencing 69 - Planting 72
Suggested Amenities - Structures 81 - Bridges 83 - River Access/Edge Treatments 84 - Miscellaneous 85
5 Typical Scenarios 87
A: Trail Through an Existing Parking Area 87 B: Trail Adjacent to Railroad 88 C: Tributary Treatment with Access to Water from Trail 88 D: Trail with Limited Land Area 89 E: Esplanades in Industrial Areas 90 F: Linkages on Existing Sidewalks 91
6 Linkages, Parking, & Traffic Control 93
7 Resources 95
TABLE OF CONTENTS 3 A Hudson River Trail spanning 46 miles in Westchester
6 9W ppalachian A Trail PUTNAM COUNTY
Park ds State hlan Hig son Bear Mou ud Cam ntain H Bridge p NYS Military Parkway Anthony's Nose Reservation 9 S 900' elevation mith 202 Camp Smith
6 Trail 1 9W 6
202 Toll House Bear Visitor Center r Mtn Brid Bea ge / Annsville Mountain Hoo YORKTOWN k Rd. Bridge Pa rkway C 2 1 Hudson 35 202 Highlands 202 State Park Pem A art Av. 35 Steamboat Riverfront Park, Verplanck A Annsville Preserve Bear Mountain 3 Riverfront PEEKSKILL State Park Green Path on Annsville Bridge, Peekskill Park Peekskill Sta. B Travis Charles Pt. Cove Depew Park Louisa h St. Park RESCO d. Wals Lents Cove Park Blv
ohn
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Indian Point Blue Mountain Facility Trail ne li Reservation ore h 4 t S d County Park Verplanck lan Cort Buchanan
dway a h Bri e g ak a h 202 Bro L a ar Kin Me d. cli g D R 9A s R . ff 9W iverview Av Ferry S u C n s CORTLANDT e t Steamboat 5 R Montrose State Riverfront Montrose d.
Park Pt. Park d t R 9 trose P NYSDEC on M Cortlandt Pee E Sta. Kolping kskill Society VA 129 B Hospital Georges Island RiverWalk at VA Hospital, Montrose 6 Crugers Bridge County Park Cort
Battery St landt Place . Riverfront Green Park, Peekskill RiverWalk 7 New Croton Res. at VA Hospital e E ac . Croton Gorge Oscawana rn d Fu ck R County Do Graff Brinton County Park STONY Park 2 Sanc. Brook T 8 Sanctuary rai
l POINT F way 9 Croton
9 on 129 9A Hudson Croton G Old Teatown Landing Park Croton Reservation 1010 Aqueduct Haverstraw Senasqua Park Trailway 202 Half Moon Bay Br. 9 Discovery 9A Long . Cove at 1111 100 t. Ave NEW Pa Half Moon P th Bay O Croton ld Railroad 1 H 9W Area CASTLE 134 Taconic G Croton Harmon 9A H Sta.
High Tor a 1313 v N Croton D e 1212 o. RiverWalk at Croton Landing Park State Park rs t 3 9 133 ra OSSINING Kings Ferry Road Path along w Croton Crossining Village of Croton-on-Hudson Rt. 9 Bike Path H Mariandale i - Point ghl County and Lake Meahagh, Montrose O 9A s Park H s 4 o in Crawbuckie o i Ossining k n Preserve A g v 1414 e . M . ve o A F n e u d e w n r o n t r S 304 a y W i a t. t S n e n r i I S Ma t - . Long Harbor Square Hook N Ossining 9 way y Sta. il Mtn. a a c 1515 Hunter r k T CLARKSTOWN State Path Engel St. B Park Park e Sing a c Sing h . St
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iv Hills Philipse Manor Sta. R 59 Horseman's Nyack 7 Trail DeVries Kykuit Park Kingsland Point Philipsburg County Park Manor K MOUNT North General 9 Motors Site Eastview PLEASANT Landing Park Blauvelt County Asphalt 303 State Pierson Park J Park 1919 Losee I Tappan Zee Bridge Park ay Rockefeller State Park Tarrytown arkw Rockwood Hall area P Old Croton Aqueduct Trailway, Ossining
Pa ulding Ave Kraft Foods Palisades Site 287 2020 Lyndhurst 8 Elms- County Waterfront Park ford Sunnyside 87
Long ORANGETOWN Path Piermont Matthiessen lway Park Trai
Irvington Sta. Main St. Scenic Hudson Tallman Park y 9 wa Mtn. il NEW Y Parkway L 2121 a Irvington Brook Clinton Av. Tr 9 NEW JERSEY State Park y GREENBURGH ORK 9W Ardsley-on-Hudson Sta. Count 10 340 Mercy 2222 College Wickers Summit Creek 11 Landing K X-ing U/C. L Waterfront Park Ardsley Kingsland Point Co. Park, Sleepy Hollow 2323 Ave. RiverWalk at Scenic Hudson Park RiverWalk Route Walnut St. Dobbs Ferry On publicly accessible lands Village of Irvington t M and road rights-of-way: 34 miles uc d
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Aq RiverWalk Route 2424 Restricted/limited access: 12 miles l MacEachon Park Trai s 100 9 d Marinello Cove oo 5 RiverWalk Segment Number Hillside W . Main St Hastings Sta. Greenway Designated Trails (RiverWalk Rte) Hastings h al Anaconda ut 87 on So Greenway Designated Trails 2525 Centr 12 Hudson Zinsser Croton County, State and other Regional Trails Bridge r Rowley's Brook ve
Trail Ri Graham HRTW Study Area / Rockland Villages School ain 2626 Spr
13 Lenoir County & State Parks Greystone Sta. County Odell Ave. Preserve Westchester County Land Use Yonkers North 22 Hudson . Promenade e Untermyer v Park P M A u tnam Local Parks n o t 2727 r HESTER u R. b Old Croton Aqueduct Trail, Dobbs Ferry r N Nature Preserves a O W .W e o STC . ld h JKF O a k Hudson Park, Yonkers Waterfront Institutions Marina c EA Trevor Park u Hudson River Museum T Glenwood
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Major Industrial Areas Ave. i M
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v i VERNON C Croton Westchester County Planning Department I TY R O F updated August 2004 NEW d YO l R O Andrew J Spano, Westchester County Executive Jerry Mulligan, AICP, Commissioner K Pelham Westchester County Board of Legislators Paul Gisondo, Associate Planner/Cartographer SECTION Introduction 1
Overview
he Westchester RiverWalk will be a it a reality. A plan, “Westchester RiverWalk: continuous trail paralleling Hudson River Trailway Plan,” was prepared T Westchester County’s 46 miles of by the Department and released in Hudson River shoreline September 2003. The between New York City plan showed how the and Putnam County. concept could be Offering a variety of realized – one segment at experiences and serving a time – through many functions, partnerships of local, RiverWalk will link the county and state Hudson River villages, governments, agencies, historic sites, parks and landowners and river access points via a developers. The key connection of trails, element was partnership. esplanades and boardwalks. This report shows how the physical aspects of RiverWalk can be coordinated to create a Westchester County Executive Andrew continuous trail. This trail will be the result Spano initiated the concept of RiverWalk by of many projects by many participants in the drawing a line on a map. He then challenged wide variety of situations encountered in the County Department of Planning to make each riverfront municipality.
Goal of Guidelines
he goal of the Guidelines for incorporating the standards and amenities Westchester RiverWalk is to create a that apply to its category of trail, such as an T cohesive trail that is visually Esplanade or a Trail in a Natural Area. connected, so that users can traverse easily in an attractive setting, and can experience the These Guidelines will serve to meet the needs Hudson River through a unified trail way of all users in varying conditions. The experience. The Guidelines will serve as a set manual describes how to accommodate of standards and a design palette that will pedestrians and bicyclists along with other unify the trail and establish a consistent users, in most environments, but cannot approach for construction. These Guidelines address all possible situations. It does, are a vital tool because RiverWalk will be however, provide a foundation upon which constructed in segments, over a period of each segment can be developed to incorporate time, rather than all at once. The ultimate specific individual needs and conditions. The goal is to connect all segments, either guidelines noted within this manual physically or through signage and other represent a thorough and organized effort to markers, in order to create a 46-mile trail. provide sound design principles in order to Each municipality and other entity that plans attain a cohesive RiverWalk trail experience. a trail segment can apply these Guidelines by (continued on page 6)
INTRODUCTION 5 GUIDELINES MANUAL Introduction continued . . .
Site Conditions
The conditions that must be considered during planning, design and construction include:
Soil Conditions Including Fill be selected to tolerate these conditions. Some locations designated for RiverWalk are Other considerations will have to respond to composed of wet or unstable soils while other the specific River environment of each trail locations will be in areas of fill. Therefore, segment. footings and paving materials must account for the varied soil conditions to achieve Limited or Difficult Accessibility for stability and longevity. Geotextile material Construction and Maintenance may be needed, for the trail itself, in selected Some areas will be difficult to access. soil conditions. Material may need to be barged in by boat or brought in small loads to the site. Since Waterfront Conditions repair and maintenance may be difficult, an The unique waterfront environment must be initial investment in high-grade material is considered when constructing along the necessary. Hudson River. The freeze/thaw conditions in the winter necessitate careful location and Anticipated Heavy Usage construction of piers, breakwaters and other Because of the anticipated heavy usage, amenities in or at the water. Wind and material for RiverWalk must be durable, brackish water requires that plant material strong, stable and tolerant of heavy wear.
Permitting & Engineering Services
epending on the site conditions and determine if and what permits may be the anticipated scope of work, it is required. Dpossible that Federal and State permits may be required. It will be advisable Engineering and environmental services may to have the municipal engineer, or a also be needed to address specific site consulting engineer, review the scope of the conditions, such as soil conditions, rock and project during the initial design process to wetlands.
6 INTRODUCTION GUIDELINES MANUAL
Primary Unifying Element - Signage
hile the Guidelines present repetition, they may be located at recommended standards, design significant distances from each other. The W treatments and amenities to unify user may not encounter these repeated RiverWalk, the primary unifying feature will amenities. Lighting and railings, for be the signage. This manual presents the example, will only appear in specific recommended logo for Westchester settings, dependent on RiverWalk. The logo will be placed on site conditions. These trailblazers along the trail to lead the user, site conditions, as regardless of the setting. Thus if the trail well as the turns inland from the water and runs along a different settings, city sidewalk or beside a roadway, the will influence the trailblazer will guide the way. selection of the standards, Although other amenities will be repeated treatments and will serve to unify the trail by their and amenities.
Categories of Trails
iverWalk is planned as a multi-use other areas with constraints that could limit trail, for walkers, bikers and the the usage because of conditions such as steep R disabled. There will be, however, grades or limited space for a wide enough segments that will be inaccessible to the trail to accommodate different users. biker or the disabled due to unalterable site Signage and maps will designate where the conditions, such as the steep wooded trail in trail is specifically limited to pedestrians and Camp Smith in Cortlandt. While this type of where there are other special conditions for trail segment is the exception, there will be use. (continued on page 8)
INTRODUCTION 7 GUIDELINES MANUAL Introduction continued . . .
Categories of Trails
hile the Guidelines have been assist and make recommendations regarding developed specifically for the need to adhere to AASHTO standards, W RiverWalk, they are based on the NYS DOT regulations and ADA current state of the practice and reflect the requirements. judgment of professionals experienced in accommodating pedestrians, bicyclists and ADA: If ADA Accessibility Guidelines are other potential trail users. Where possible, to be adhered to, the components, which ADA Accessibility Guidelines have been must be evaluated for compliance, include adhered to in this manual. Where Federal the longitudinal slope, railings, the need for and State funding is provided, certain ramps with railings, drainage structure standards may be required. These other grates and signage. standards and guidelines include AASHTO standards, NYS DOT regulations and ADA AASHTO: In specific conditions, such as requirements. They are referred to in this where the trail intersects with a state or manual where appropriate. See Section 7: municipal road, AASHTO standards may be Resources which identifies the specific sources. required.
When the trail is in design, the municipal NYSDOT: In specific locations, NYSDOT engineer or a consulting engineer will have to regulations may have to be followed.
( see Resources: page 95, for contact information )
8 INTRODUCTION SECTION
how to use This Manual 2
Municipalities or other entities will use the Guidelines in the layout and design of their trail segment. The municipality may create a Citizens RiverWalk Committee to work with the municipal officials on the development of the Trail segment. When private entities are developing a Trail segment, the municipality where the Trail will be located, will work closely with the developer to insure that the Guidelines are followed.
“Where do we begin?”
The first step is to identify how Step much width you have to layout the 1 trail and the type of trail you want. The available space and intended use will determine the category of your trail.
“What category is our trail?”
Based on the physical features Step (width and length available, slope, 2 adjacent constraints, etc.) and the types of uses to be encouraged “How do we get ideas for (heavy usage, limited usage, multi-use, varied design of the trail activities on the trail), determine the category of trail, selecting from the different categories in special settings?” listed in Section 3. You may want to review Check Section 5: Typical the example of typical scenarios for the Step Scenarios for ideas and guidance RiverWalk, illustrated in Section 5, for in developing the design of your further clarification. 4 trail in special settings.
“After we identify our category, “What if the only place what do we do next?” we can provide part of our trail
Apply the Standards in Section 3 is on our sidewalks?” Step for your selected category, read the 3 discussion and look at the Linkages or Trails on Existing sketches. Step Sidewalks: You may use existing 5 sidewalks when conditions do not allow space to develop a trail. The municipality can then use their existing sidewalks as the trail and the linkage to other trail segments. Here the logo or trailblazer will play an important role. See Section 4 on Amenities: Signage. Also see Section 6: Linkages.
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL 9 GUIDELINES MANUAL How to Use This Manual continued . . .
“After applying the standards, for your trail (also see Step Eight). Any other site study costs, such as soil investigation, how will we make the trail archeology and/or construction supervision comfortable, attractive costs should be part of the proposed budget. and fun to use?” “How do we get our trail built?”
Step Select from Section 4: Amenities, If you are a municipality, you will 6 those amenities you wish to use. Step prepare construction documents for 8 bidding purposes, done either in Signage: The most important amenities are house or by a consultant, based on the signage and graphics you will need for these Guidelines and the decisions you have your specific trail segment. Review the made about location, category, and the various signs and select those which will standards. You will first need an accurate enhance the users’ experience. Be sure also to topographic survey, done by a licensed review signage required by NYS DOT and the surveyor, to use as the basis for the AASHTO standards for traffic control. The construction documents. Once your municipal engineer, your Highway documents are complete, you will put your Department, or your Department of Public documents out for public bidding. The Works may assist with this aspect of the selected contractor will construct the trail, trail. with construction administration done by your municipality or by a consultant, to Other Amenities: Select the other amenities insure that the trail is built according to the that will make your segment of the trail Guidelines. comfortable, attractive, and will suit your budget. If you are a private entity, you will also need construction documents and an accurate survey as well as construction administration. Coordination with the “How much will our trail municipality where your trail segment is cost to build?” located will be essential throughout the whole process. As the Guidelines do not identify Step specific project costs, you will be 7 responsible for determining your budget. Once you have selected your route, the layout, and the overall design and amenities you want, the municipal staff or a private consultant can develop a preliminary budget.
This budget will be further refined when you develop construction documents (see Step Eight), but can serve as the basis for you to fund your trail. Remember also, to add pre- construction costs, such as the cost of obtaining a professional topographic survey
10 HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL GUIDELINES MANUAL
“How can the trail help the community?”
The trail can lead people from one Step community to another, providing 11 opportunities for the trail users to enjoy your restaurants, shopping, and other amenities. You may also want to share your cultural, historic and natural resources, just as you will want to enjoy those of adjacent communities, as you walk or ride the trail. See Section 4 on Amenities: “Must we provide parking Signage for interpretive signage for cultural for people who want and historic resources. The trail may also improve and enliven an area of your to use the trail?” municipality which previously was
unattractive or unused. No, but consider whether it will be Step in the interest of your community 9 to provide parking. Do you have Open your trail and parking in your municipality that enjoy the use! could be available to the prospective trail users, such as at public buildings, train Hold a ribbon cutting or other stations on weekends and summer evenings, Step public ceremony to open your or in shopping areas? See Section 6 on 12 trail. Identify and acknowledge at Linkages, Parking, and Traffic Control. this event the cooperative efforts of the involved parties. Make this a big party “How do we link our with photos, balloons and food! trail segment to other trail segments?”
You will want to work with Step adjacent municipalities, with 10 Westchester County and landholders to create these physical linkages. Signage will be essential to lead people to and along the trails. See Section 4 on Amenities: Signage.
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL 11
SECTION Categories of Trails 3
Introduction
he standards for the categories of trail’s use will be limited to pedestrians, or trails are prepared for municipalities may not be suitable for those with disabilities T and other entities that will design or on bicycles. and construct segments of RiverWalk. The walk is to adhere to the Guidelines of the Different categories of trails have been Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), identified to represent the different settings where feasible and which will be practical. encountered as RiverWalk is Westchester developed. The RiverWalk is planned accompanying Tables as a multi-use trail provide the adjacent to the standards for each Hudson River. At category of trail. times, the trail will have to detour off the Signage will play a waterfront, such as major role in through municipal identifying the uses settings, using the of the trail, any existing sidewalks as limitations, and the linkage between the RiverWalk directing users to the linkages. See Section 4 segments. In some situations, existing trails on Amenities: Signage for details of the sign such as the Croton Aqueduct, will be used as standards. the linkage. In still other situations, the trail will be located along a road or in a parking An overview of each of the trail categories is lot. Because of site conditions, the type of provided along with an illustration and trail developed will vary. In some cases, the accompanying chart.
LIST OF CATEGORIES
A: Multi-Use Trail D: Bicycle Trail On Road B: Multi-Use Trail On Roads E: Trail Adjacent To & In Parking Lots Railroad C: Pedestrian Trail F: Trail With Limited Land c-1 - In Constrained Area Area c-2 - In Natural Area G: Esplanade
CATEGORIES OF TRAILS 13 GUIDELINES MANUAL
A Multi-Use Trail
Discussion
he standards for the Multi-Use Trail apply to the segments where the trail can be used by different users: walkers, bicyclists, runners, joggers, those on roller blades, T those wheeling strollers, and people in wheelchairs or with walkers.
MULTI-USE TRAIL
14 CATEGORIES OF TRAILS GUIDELINES MANUAL
TABLE RIVERWALK STANDARDS FOR CATEGORIES OF TRAILS A Multi-Use Trail feature standards comments
• Trails with anticipated high volume or length greater Trail Width 10' min - 16' wide than a 1/2 mile shall be 12'-16'
Width Min. 5'- 0" from • Clearance to all fixed objects, such as fences, Clearance outside edge of trail poles, signs, benches, parked cars & top of to any object slope at water's edge
Special On a case by case basis, • Site constraints include steep slopes, distance Width based on various from railroad, proximity to water's edge & situations Clearances site constraints where barriers are not feasible or desired
Height 10'-0" Ht. clearance from • Clearance to all overhead elements such Clearance finished grade of trail as tree limbs, signs, lighting etc.
2% Min. & Max. • If trail is to be crowned for grading and drainage Cross-slope Cross-pitch slope purposes, the max. & min. slope shall be Pitch 2% from centerline of trail
• If land adjacent to the trail is sloped greater than 5%, Longitudinal 5% Maximum the trail may be aligned in a curved manner to Slope achieve 5% maximum longitudinal slope.
Impervious material: • See Amenities Section - also for special conditions Surface asphalt concrete, concrete over water or in limited land mass Material or asphalt pavers, flagstone or granite
Railing • Adjacent slope or shoreline more than 1:3 slope (for protection or Railing or other barriers • Adjacent road and or parking if less than 5' distance as barrier) are provided in specific • Adjacent railroad See pg 70 - situations of need Railing along • Unattractive or potentially unsafe condition Waterfront
• The trail is to be flush with adjacent land with no trip There shall be no curbing along Curbing hazard between trail and adjacent land. the edge of the trail unless an adjacent slope warrants curbing • Curbing shall be used only to stabilize adjacent slopes.
• Edging materials: brick, precast concrete pavers, Trail Border Trail edging shall be optional flagstone, granite. Wood edging may be used or Edge and must be flush with with asphalt. trail surface • Passage area must be 10' minimum not including border or edging
Height and distance between Lighting poles to be established on • See Amenites Section case by case basis
Benches, waste containers, Miscellaneous planters, etc. to be located • See Amenities Section on a case by case basis
CATEGORIES OF TRAILS 15 GUIDELINES MANUAL
B Multi-Use Trail On Roads & In Parking Lots
Discussion
he standards for the Multi-Use Trail in the parking lot, making a trail of 10’-0” along roads and in parking lots are impossible to construct, the trail will become T based primarily on creating a safe and a Pedestrian Trail, as noted in the two visually pleasing experience for the user. The Pedestrian Trails, C.1. and C.2. Signage is to standards correspond in large part to those be provided indicating the trail’s use as being for A. Multi-Use Trail, described on page 14. If limited to people on foot, with no bicyclists there is a limited area along the roadway or allowed.
NOTE:
Designers of RiverWalk are advised to meet with their municipal DOT and to review the NYS Highway Design Manual, chapter 18 - Facilities for Pedestrians and Bicyclist. (see section 7– Resources), to insure safety for both trail users and vehicles.
MULTI-USE TRAIL ON ROADS & IN PARKING LOTS
16 CATEGORIES OF TRAILS GUIDELINES MANUAL
TABLE
RIVERWALK STANDARDS FOR CATEGORIES OF TRAILS B Multi-Use Trail On Roads & In Parking Lots feature standard comments
• Where limited space, a pedestrian trail Trail Width 10' min - 16' wide of 6'- 0" minimum can be built, signing it for Pedestrians Only
• Clearance to all fixed objects, such as fences, Width Min. 5'- 0" from outside edge poles, signs, benches, parked cars & top of Clearance of trail to any object slope at water's edge
• Constraints may include steep slopes, Special Width On a case by case basis, distance from railroad, proximity to water's Clearances based on various site constraints edge & situations where barriers are not feasible or desired
Height 10'-0" Ht. clearance from finished grade • Clearance to all overhead elements such Clearance as tree limbs, signs, lighting etc.
• Where trail is to be crowned for grading and Cross-slope 2% Min. & Max. Cross-pitch slope drainage purposes, the max. & min. slope Pitch shall be 2% from centerline of trail
• If the land adjacent to the trail is sloped Longitudinal 5% Maximum greater than 5%, the trail may be aligned Slope in a curved manner to achieve 5% maximum longitudinal slope
Surface Impervious material: asphalt, concrete, • See Amenities Section Material concrete pavers, bluestone, or granite
Wood guiderail per NYS DOT, • As separation of Trail from road and/or Railing installed in paved area, in addition parking lot to 6' or 10' trail width
• Adjacent slope or water level more than Fencing & other On a case by case basis, 1:3 slope Barriers where physical separation • Adjacent railroad advisable • Unattractive or potentially unsafe condition
• The trail is to be flush with adjacent land There shall be no curbing along with no trip hazard between the trail and Curbing edge of trail unless adjacent land. an adjacent slope warrants curbing • Curbing shall be used only where necessary to stabilize adjacent slopes.
• Edging materials: brick, precast concrete Trail edging shall optional and must be flush pavers, flagstone, granite. Wood edging may Trail Border be used w/asphalt. or Edge with trail surface. • Passage area must be 10' minimum not including border or edging
Height & distance between poles to Lighting be established on case by case basis • See Amenities Section
Benches, wast containers, Miscellaneous planters, etc. to be located • See Amenities Section on a case by case basis
CATEGORIES OF TRAILS 17 GUIDELINES MANUAL
C Pedestrian Trail
Discussion
wo types of Pedestrian Trails have been identified for development in T constrained areas: C-1: Pedestrian Trail in Constrained Area, and C-2: Pedestrian Trail in Natural Area.
A segment of RiverWalk in a natural area is best exemplified by the trail in Camp Smith, where steep slopes, and heavy woods create a limited access trail, more similar to a hiking trail than a walking trail. If other segments have similar characteristics, most of the standards will have to be determined on a case by case basis generally. Those standards on the chart do apply. C-1: PEDESTRIAN TRAIL IN CONSTRAINED AREAS
C-2 : PEDESTRIAN TRAIL IN NATURAL AREA
18 CATEGORIES OF TRAILS GUIDELINES MANUAL
TABLE
RIVERWALK STANDARDS FOR CATEGORIES OF TRAILS
C-1 Pedestrian Trail In Constrained Area (not adjacent to road or parking)
feature standard comment
Trail Width 6'-0" minimum width • This pedestrian trail is in areas where there are physical barrier & site constraints that limit the ability to develop a wider trail.
Min. 2'- 0" from Width Clearance • Clearance to all fixed objects, such as fences, outside edge of trail poles, signs, benches, parked cars & top of slope to any object at water's edge
Special Width On a case by case basis, • Constraints may include steep slopes, distance from Clearances based on various site railroad, proximity to water's edge & situations constraints where barriers are not feasible or desired
Height Clearance 10'-0" Ht. clearance from • Clearance to all overhead elements such finished grade as tree limbs, signs, lighting etc.
Cross-slope Pitch 2% Min. & Max. • Where trail is to be crowned for grading and Cross-pitch slope drainage purposes, the max. & min. slope shall be 2% from centerline of trail
Longitudinal Slope 5% Maximum
Impervious material: Surface Material asphalt, concrete, • See Amenities Section concrete pavers, bluestone, or granite
Railing, Fencing On a case by case basis, • Adjacent slope or water level more than 1:3 slope & other Barriers where physical • Adjacent railroad separation advisable • Unattractive or potentially unsafe condition
There shall be no • The trail is to be flush with adjacent land. Curbing curbing along edge • There shall be no trip hazard between the trail and of trail unless an adjacent adjacent land. slope warrants curbing • Curbing shall be used only where necessary to stabilize adjacent slopes
No border or edging • Edging material may be brick, precast concrete shall be provided Trail Border or Edge pavers, flagstone or granite. except if surface • Overall width of the path may not increase by more material is asphalt than 1'-0" on either side; asphalt must be 4'-0" min.
Miscellaneous • If there is the ability to cantilever the trail over the water to make a wider trail, see Chart F. , Limited Land Mass
CATEGORIES OF TRAILS 19 GUIDELINES MANUAL
TABLE RIVERWALK STANDARDS FOR CATEGORIES OF TRAILS C-2 Pedestrian Trail In Natural Area feature standard comment
• This trail for natural areas with emphasis Trail Width 5'-0" minimum width on minimal site disturbance
Min. 2'- 0" from • Clearance to all fixed objects, such Width Clearance outside edge of trail as trees, rocks, etc. to any object
Special Width On a case by case basis, • Constraints may include steep slopes where Clearances based on various site more width clearance is needed, or rock constraints outcroppings were no clearance is possible
Height 10'-0" Ht. clearance • Clearance to all overhead elements such Clearance from finished as tree limbs, signs, etc. grade
Cross-slope On a case by case basis, Pitch based on various site constraints
Longitudinal On a case by case basis, Slope based on various site constraints
Compacted stone dust, Surface stabilized crushed • See Amenities Section
Material stone paving, • When slope is over 5%, consider use of chipped or water logs to slow drainage shredded harwood
On a case by case basis, • Handrails are required for all steps Handrails based on various or step ramp areas site constraints
Use 6"-8" round locust Steps or or cedar posts, step ramps 5' length, anchored into grade by 15" long iron rods
Trail Border or No border or edging • In rugged and steep terrain, cedar logs Edge shall normally or stone borders may help to reduce erosion be providing
20 CATEGORIES OF TRAILS GUIDELINES MANUAL
Bicycle Trail On Road D
Discussion
or a Bicycle Trail On Road, the AASHTO standards (Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities) and the NYS DOT, Highway Design Manual, Chapter 18 – Facilities Ffor Pedestrians and Bicyclists (See Section 7. Resources) shall be consulted.
BICYCLE TRAIL ON ROAD WITH/WITHOUT CURB
TABLE RIVERWALK STANDARDS FOR CATEGORIES OF TRAILS
Bicycle Trail On Road D (with or without curb) feature standard comments
With curb: 1.5 m. min. Trail Width per NYS DOT (4.92') • Signage indicating bike lane as well as "Share the Road" is required. Without curb: 1.2 min. per NYS DOT (3.94')
Striping is to be provided Miscellaneous on roadway indicating Bike Lane, per NYS DOT
CATEGORIES OF TRAILS 21 GUIDELINES MANUAL
E Trail Adjacent To Railroad
Discussion
rails Adjacent to the Railroad will vary in width, material and methods of construction, type of use, and budget, depending on site conditions and the type of trail the T community wishes to construct. All plans must be submitted to Metro North for review and comment, prior to the finalization of plans and before the commencement of any construction activity.
TRAIL ADJACENT TO RAILROAD
22 CATEGORIES OF TRAILS GUIDELINES MANUAL
TABLE RIVERWALK STANDARDS FOR CATEGORIES OF TRAILS E Trail Adjacent To Railroad feature standard comments
Trail Multi-use Trail: 10' min. • Use of trail will be determined by available width based Width Ped. Trail : 6' min. on site conditions Esplanade: 16' min.
Width Min. 5'- 0" from outside edge • Clearance to all fixed objects, such as fences, Clearance of trail to any object poles, signs, benches, parked cars & top of slope at water's edge
Special 15' min. clearance between • Or, as per rail carrier requirements Width closest rail track and barrier Clearances with fencing
Height 10'-0" Ht. clearance • Clearance to all overhead elements such as tree limbs, Clearance from finished grade signs, lighting, wires, etc.
Cross-slope 2% Min. & Max. • If trail is to be crowned for grading and drainage Pitch Cross-pitch slope purposes, the max. & min. slope shall be 2% from centerline of trail
Longitudinal 5% Maximum • If the slope adjacent to the trail is greater than 5%, Slope the trail may be aligned in a curved manner to achieve 5% max. slope
Surface Shall be an impervious • See Amenities Section Material material, asphalt, concrete, concrete or asphalt pavers
Provide Jersey Barrier • See Amenities Section for fencing requirements Barriers with 6'-0" ht. galvanized fence on top
There shall be no curbing • The trail is to be flush with adjacent land. There shall Curbing along the edge of the trail be no trip hazard between the trail and adjacent land. unless an adjacent slope • Curbing shall be used only to stabilize adjacent slopes warrants curbing
• Edging material may be brick, precast concrete Trail Border pavers, flagstone or granite. or Edge • Passage area must be 10' minimum not including border or edging
CATEGORIES OF TRAILS 23 GUIDELINES MANUAL
F Trail With Limited Land Area
Discussion
rails in areas with Limited Land Area will vary in width, material and methods of construction, and type of use, dependent on site conditions, budget, and the type of trail T the community wishes to construct. Some trails may take the form of 6’ wide boardwalks for pedestrians only where space is very limited, while others may become wide multi-use esplanades, cantilevered over riprap or sandy beach areas. See page 28: Special Situations for further information on special situations.
NOTE:
For this trail, there are different options, depending on site conditions. A cantilevered trail or a deck with piers for support are two options. The designer is advised to consult an engineer to evaluate the options.
TRAIL WITH LIMITED LAND AREA
24 CATEGORIES OF TRAILS GUIDELINES MANUAL
TABLE
RIVERWALK STANDARDS FOR CATEGORIES OF TRAILS F Trail With Limited Land Area feature standard comments
Trail Ped. Trail: 6' min. • Use of trail will be determined Width Multi-use Trail : 10' min. by available width based on site Esplanade: 16' min. conditions, engineering, and cost evaluations
Width Varies depending on type of trail, Clearance site conditions and adjacent uses
Height • Clearance to all overhead Clearance 10'-0" Ht. clearance from finished grade elements such as tree limbs, signs, lighting, wires, etc.
• If trail is to be crowned for Cross-slope 2% Min. & Max. Cross-pitch slope grading and drainage purposes, Pitch for any material the max. & min. slope shall be 2% from centerline of trail
Longitudinal Slope 5% Maximum
Surface Shall be an impervious material, • See Amenities Section Material or decking of wood, synthetic material or steel grating
Barriers Railing to be provided if trail is more • See Amenities Section than 18" above grade
Curbing Curbing of wood, synthetic material, or steel is to be provided per ADA if railing needed
Lighting Height and distance between poles to be established on a case by case basis
Miscellaneous Benches, waste containers, planters, etc. to be located on a case by case basis
CATEGORIES OF TRAILS 25 GUIDELINES MANUAL
G Esplanade
Discussion
What is an Esplanade? Gathering Places or Mixed-Use Areas:
or RiverWalk, an Esplanade (a splanades will often lead into or promenade along the waterfront) is a actually be situated in mixed-use Fsegment of the trail where a large areas, where shops and restaurants number of users is anticipated or where the E are located and afford these enterprises the municipality or other entity wishes to opportunity to display goods or provide for encourage heavy use. Esplanades will be outdoor eating. Seating and other amenities located in primarily urban areas, where may be provided on an esplanade, and, in existing facilities/features support heavy use. most cases, lighting is recommended if Esplanades promote use of RiverWalk by nighttime use is desired and anticipated. large numbers of people who will walk, bike, These mixed use areas become mini-parks in and gather at a special trail feature, thereby their own right, and may be developed in necessitating a more expansive area than a locations where such amenities as boat 10’-0” trail can provide. One esplanade landings exist, or where certain activities are already exists in Westchester, at the desired, such as performances and vendors. downtown Yonkers Waterfront. Railings may be needed on some esplanades. The standard for railings is addressed in Section 4: Amenities.
ESPLANADE
26 CATEGORIES OF TRAILS GUIDELINES MANUAL
TABLE RIVERWALK STANDARDS FOR CATEGORIES OF TRAILS G Esplanade feature standard comments
• Where additional uses and amenities are to be Trail Width 16' minimum provided, trail width must be increased to allow 16' to remain for passage of users
Min. 5'- 0" from outside edge • Clearance to all fixed objects, such as fences, Width Clearance of trail to any object poles, signs, benches, parked cars & top of slope at water's edge
Special Width On a case by case basis, • Site constraints include steep slopes, distance Clearances based on various from railroad, proximity to water's edge & site constraints situations where barriers are not feasible or desired
Height 10'-0" Ht. clearance from • Clearance to all overhead elements such as tree Clearance finished grade limbs, signs, lighting etc.
Cross-slope 2% Min. & Max. • If trail is to be crowned for grading and drainage Pitch Cross-pitch slope purposes, the max. & min. slope shall be 2% from centerline of trail
Longitudinal • If the slope adjacent to the trail is greater than 5%, Slope 5% Maximum the trail may be aligned in a curved manner to achieve 5% max. slope
Surface Impervious material: concrete, • Asphalt is not to be used for Esplanades. Material asphalt or con-crete pavers, • See Amenities Section, page 60 flagstone, granite, or decking
• Adjacent slope or water level more than 1:3 slope Railing Railing or other barriers • Adjacent road and or parking is less than 5' are provided in specific distance situations of need • Adjacent railroad • Unattractive or potentially unsafe condition
• The trail is to be flush with adjacent land. Curbing There shall be no curbing along • There shall be no trip hazard between the trail and the edge of the trail unless an adjacent land. adjacent slope warrants curbing • Curbing shall be used only to stabilize adjacent slopes
Trail Border or Border may be provided to add • See Amenities Section Edge visual interest; all pavement must be flush
Lighting Height and distance between • See Amenities Section poles to be established on a case by case basis
Miscellaneous Benches, waste containers, • See Amenities Section planters, etc. to be located on a case by case basis
CATEGORIES OF TRAILS 27 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Special Situations
n addition to the material in the chart, Special Width Clearances the following explanations clarify specific In individual cases the clearance area on Isituations and related standards: either side of a trail may have to be increased. Such situations are to be handled on a case-by-case basis by the entity designing and constructing the trail. These situations may include distance from top of slope of water’s edge where the slope is very steep, and distance from the railroad where the trail parallels the tracks. Consideration may be given in these cases to providing fencing or other barriers rather than increasing the distance. The distance from railroad tracks is addressed in Table E, page Surface Material in Special Situations 23. In specific settings, a boardwalk of wood, synthetic material or steel grating will be Railing/Fencing/Guiderails/ used. These settings include areas of limited Bollards/Other Barriers: land area, where bridging over a rocky shore, a beach, or water body is necessary. In cases Specific barriers are described in the Amenities Section. where the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has jurisdiction, boardwalk or decking with open grating may be required, in order to avoid shading fish habitats along shoreline areas.
Although a compacted stone dust surface for a trail can be constructed to adhere to ADA guidelines, this surface is not included in the standards for the multi-use trail because of the need for continual maintenance for such a surface and the potential for erosion.
28 CATEGORIES OF TRAILS SECTION Amenities 4
Introduction
he Guidelines provide the designers of the RiverWalk segments with a choice T for most amenities, based on the category of trail, as well as on site conditions, design and budget. These amenities correspond to a higher standard than might normally be required for a municipal project, due to specific site conditions and comprehensive quality standards mandated by the County of Westchester.
Standard Amenities
ust as standards have been set for widths, esplanade, while a different bench may be Jsetbacks and other dimensions for chosen for a pedestrian trail. Signage, with RiverWalk, standard amenities have been the logo, is the required amenity. Choices are selected, in order to develop a unified trail. provided with the palette of signs so that one Within the standard amenities there are segment of trail may use only the logo as a choices that can be made, dependent on the Trailblazer, while another may include trail category as well as its setting and regulatory, directional and interpretive surroundings. Thus, one of the benches and signage. one of the bike racks may be selected for an
Suggested Amenities
ifferent amenities are suggested for playgrounds, or facilities for fishing where use along the trail. The amenities suitable to the site, or with other Dsuggest here will also serve as ideas improvements which enhance the users’ for designers of trail segments, to make the experience. trail more interesting with structures,
STANDARD AMENITIES
- Signage - Surface Materials - Seating - Bicycle Racks & Trash Receptacles - Lighting - Bollards - Railing & Fencing - Planting
SUGGESTED AMENITIES
- Structures - Bridges - River Access/Edge Treatments - Miscellaneous
AMENITIES 29 GUIDELINES MANUAL
STANDARD AMENITIES
SIGNAGE
Introduction
he Westchester RiverWalk identity & This signage system is to be used on all sign system has been developed to segments of RiverWalk, as the standard for T maintain a strong identity for the navigation and information. The design of trail as it runs though a wide variety of each sign and details for its implementation environments. Its purpose is to offer a highly are provided. The specific information, such recognizable and friendly voice to visitors as as rules and regulations, or interpretative they explore the area. The signs will orient materials, will be developed by each entity and navigate visitors along RiverWalk and to that designs a trail. Specific site locations for adjacent communities and resources. The each sign will be part of the construction signs will inform visitors about the documents for each segment. uniqueness of each area and the destinations within them.
Logo/Trailblazer (page 32) panels which illustrate the The logo for RiverWalk will be RiverWalk logo and an arrow. used on most signs and will The intention of this sign is to serve as the primary navigate visitors on foot and in identification for the trail. The cars through the nearby streets logo as a trailblazer for to trail entrances. The signs can pedestrians and bikers will be mounted to light poles, or to indicate the location of the trail other site features, adjusting through city streets or through a natural the direction of the arrow based on its area. The trailblazer can be placed on light location. poles, buildings, fences or on other permanent fixtures to lead the user when Pedestrian Trail Blazer (page 41) clear identification is needed. The trailblazer The pedestrian trailblazer consists of only will also be used on trees along a trail the RiverWalk logo. This sign should be leading through a natural area using mounted throughout the trail to assure stainless steel nails or screws to anchor it. visitors they are still on course. The RiverWalk identity and trail blazer signs are Exact locations and distances will be the only consistent elements throughout the determined on a case by case basis, entire length of this riverfront trail. Along dependent on site distances, terrain and with the regulatory sign, the pedestrian trail other site conditions. blazer can be mounted in a variety of locations. This sign, particularly in natural Vehicular Trail Blazer (page 39) wooded areas, can be mounted directly to The vehicular trailblazer is composed of two trees, using stainless steel nails or screws.
30 STANDARD AMENITIES GUIDELINES MANUAL
Regulation (page 42) The regulatory sign conveys trail rules and safety information. The sign has been designed in a simple manner allowing it to be mounted in a variety of locations. The layout, which incorporates elements of the RiverWalk logo, reinforces the the trail's identity while conveying the necessary information.
Directional (page 43) The pedestrian directional is a double sided of their current location. In addition to sign that should be located at each trail directional information, the signs will, in the entrance not signed with the major future, include two maps of the trail. The identification. It should also be located at first map will illustrate the entire length of major decision points along the trail, to the RiverWalk trail, highlighting waterfront navigate visitors to nearby points of interest. towns and identifying points of interest This sign has been designed in a similar way along the way. The second map will to the major identification to reinforce the illustrate the municipality in detail, offering trail identity. visitors information about local points of interest and amenities. The maps will be developed later in the project, as more segments of RiverWalk are completed.
Interpretive (page 52) Each municipality or private entity that develops a segment of RiverWalk will identify which resources, natural or cultural for instance, of their riverfront they wish to interpret to the public. The interpretive signage can be mounted horizontally on a railing or can be mounted vertically, in the Major Identification and Maps (page 46) area of the feature to be interpreted. This The major identification sign should be signage may be integrated into the design of located at the northern and southern most seating areas, or as part of a structure where entrances of each municipality along the people will gather. trail. This double sided sign identifies the trail, identifies the municipality name and includes detailed information about the area. A welcome statement offers a brief history of the municipality including where its name originated. Trail hours and a list of the rules are conveyed underneath the welcome statement.
The major identification also conveys directional information, guiding visitors toward the municipality just north and south
STANDARD AMENITIES 31 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Logo/Trailblazer
32 SIGNAGE GUIDELINES MANUAL
SIGNAGE 33 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Logo/Trailblazer continued . . .
34 SIGNAGE GUIDELINES MANUAL
SIGNAGE 35 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Logo/Trailblazer continued . . .
36 SIGNAGE GUIDELINES MANUAL
SIGNAGE 37 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Logo/Trailblazer continued . . .
38 SIGNAGE GUIDELINES MANUAL
Vehicular Trailblazer
SIGNAGE 39 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Vehicular Trailblazer continued . . .
40 SIGNAGE GUIDELINES MANUAL
Pedestrian Trailblazer
TO MATCH STREET TRAIL BLAZER
SIGNAGE 41 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Regulation
42 SIGNAGE GUIDELINES MANUAL
Directional
SIGNAGE 43 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Directional continued . . .
44 SIGNAGE GUIDELINES MANUAL
SIGNAGE 45 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Major Identification and Maps
46 SIGNAGE GUIDELINES MANUAL
SIGNAGE 47 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Major Identification and Maps continued . . .
48 SIGNAGE GUIDELINES MANUAL
SIGNAGE 49 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Major Identification and Maps continued . . .
50 SIGNAGE GUIDELINES MANUAL
SIGNAGE 51 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Interpretive
52 SIGNAGE GUIDELINES MANUAL
SIGNAGE 53 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Interpretive continued . . .
54 SIGNAGE GUIDELINES MANUAL
SIGNAGE 55 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Interpretive continued . . .
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SIGNAGE 57 GUIDELINES MANUAL
Interpretive continued . . .
58 SIGNAGE GUIDELINES MANUAL
SIGNAGE 59 GUIDELINES MANUAL
STANDARD AMENITIES
SURFACE MATERIALS
Asphalt Pavement
Asphalt top course shall be 1 1/2" depth and type 6 (F) Item 403.7-1 as specified in Table 401-1 "Composition of Bituminous Plant Mixtures" of the NYSDOT Standard Specifications dated January 1990 and any subsequent addenda.
The base course material used shall be 3" depth Base Course Type 3 Item no. 403.13 as specified in table 401-1 “Composition of Bituminous Plant Mixtures" of the NYSDOT Specifications and any subsequent addenda.
Tack coat shall be NYSDOT Item 702.30, material designation RS-1.
The crushed stone subbase shall be 6" depth and conform in every respect to the requirements contained in these specifications and those set forth for "Bases and Subbase", Section 300 of the NYSDOT Standard Specifications of January 2, 1990, and any subsequent addenda.
Use of geo-textile may be required in areas of poor subgrade.
60 STANDARD AMENITIES GUIDELINES MANUAL
Granite Pavers
Granite Pavers shall be grey-black modeled as manufactured by Hanover Architectural Products, or an acceptable equal. Pavers shall be 1'-0" X 2'-0" X 1-1/2".
Surface of granite shall be thermal finished for "slip resistance", Granite pavers shall be installed on a 1" asphalt setting bed, and depending on soil borings the setting bed shall be on 8" compacted item 4 and or a concrete subbase.
Concrete Pavers
Concrete Pavers shall be Hanover Prest Pavers model no. M # 1064 Tudor Finish in a 1'-0" X 2'-0" X 2" nominal dimension as manufactured by Hanover Architectural Pavers - Hanover~ PA or approved equal. Pavers shall be installed as per manufacturer's recommendations.
Subbase shall be NYSDOT item 4 and shall be 8" minimum depth. Depending on drainage and soil borings, sub-surface drainage material, such as geotextile fabric, may be required.
STANDARD AMENITIES 61 GUIDELINES MANUAL Surface Materials continued . . .
Concrete/Granite Blend Paver
Concrete granite blend paver shall be type 2 Granitex (direct wash surface) paver Model #GTX2108 in 1’- 0 x 1’ Or 1’– 0 x 2’ – 0” nominal dimension as manufactured by Wausau Tile or approved equal. Pavers shall be installed as per manufacturer’s recommendations.
Subbase shall be NYSDOT item 4 and shall be 8” minimum depth. Depending on drainage and soil borings, sub-surface drainage material, such as Geotextile fabric may be required.
Bluestone Pavers
Bluestone pavers shall be NY State bluestone, cleft free and shall be 1 1/2" thick. Pavers shall be 1 ' x 1' min.; pattern shall be on a case-by-case basis. Subbase and setting bed materials shall be as per engineer's recommendation.
Ipe Wood or Mahogany Decking
Pressure treated lumber is unacceptable for decking and railings. Mahogany and Ipe wood are to be used for decking materials.
62 STANDARD AMENITIES GUIDELINES MANUAL
Composite Decking
An acceptable alternative to Mahogany or Ipe wood is composite material, such as TrexTM.
Steel Grating
Steel grating shall be galvanized heavy-duty bar grating welded steel with series grating in accordance with NAAMM Heavy-Duty Bar Grating Manual. Grating size to be calculated by an engineer.
Stabilized Gravel
Native stone shall be used for gravel. Stabilizer shall be a natural, non-toxic, non-staining, odorless, environmentally safe Powder consisting of 95% psylllurn with a 70% mucilliod contact. The powder shall be "StabilizerTM” as manufactured by Stabilizer, Inc. or an approved equal. Contact rep. Ralph Crosby: (914) 476-8773
Wood Mulch Path
Wood mulch path shall be shredded bark mulch path; 3" depth on a 4" crushed gravel subbase.
STANDARD AMENITIES 63 GUIDELINES MANUAL
STANDARD AMENITIES
SEATING
ocation of benches will be determined on a case-by-case basis. They should be placed approximately 500’ to 1000’ apart, depending on the design of each segment. L Consideration should be given to allowing rest areas for the elderly, disabled, children, and others who need or wish to stop. Respite areas may also be created with several benches grouped with plantings, especially where such areas provide views of the river. Seating may also be desirable near access points to RiverWalk. The designer may not want to locate benches in isolated areas due to security concerns.
Metal Bench
Shall be model #160 6’ length in Black Powder Coat finish as manufactured by DuMor Site Furnishings or approved equal. (585) 964-2731
Wood & Metal Bench
Wood & Metal Bench model "Arcata" in-ground "Ipe" wood. Metal shall be Blue Spruce Powder Coat and manufacturer shall be Landscape Forms or approved equal. Bench may be used with or without back depending on site conditions and design considerations. Landscape Forms: (800) 521-2546
64 STANDARD AMENITIES GUIDELINES MANUAL
STANDARD AMENITIES
BICYCLE RACKS & TRASH RECEPTACLES
Metal Rolling Style
Metal Rolling Style or Ribbon Style Bike Rack in Blue Spruce Powder Coat as manufactured by American Bicycle Security Company or approved equal. (800) 245-3723
Metal Bike Hitch
Metal Bike Hitch in Blue Spruce Powder Coat as Manufactured by American Bicycle Security Company or approved equal. (800) 245-3723
Metal Trash Receptacle
Metal Trash receptacle shall be 36-gallon open top surface mount, with insert and shall be “Chase Park” model in Blue Spruce Powder Coat as manufactured by Landscapes Forms or approved equal. (800) 521-2546
STANDARD AMENITIES 65 GUIDELINES MANUAL
STANDARD AMENITIES
LIGHTING
Visionaire Lighting Newcastle with APA-05-S1 Mounting Arm and DCB-13 Decorative Pole
Pedestrian Lighting
Pole Lighting The lighting selected is primarily for high use areas, such as on an esplanade, or on a trail which passes through a parking lot for security. RiverWalk is not intended for night time use except in these special areas. This is pedestrian lighting, with the total height of the fixture and pole at 14’. It has been selected to minimize light pollution, thus preserving night skies. Circumstances will determine the spacing and foot candles. The light shall be metal Halide, 175 watt max.
Light Bollards Two different light bollards have been selected, and may be used in parking areas, or in areas where a low level of light is needed to lead people to RiverWalk.
66 STANDARD AMENITIES GUIDELINES MANUAL
STANDARD AMENITIES
BOLLARDS
choice of bollards is provided to suit different functions and needs. Low level lighting can be provided using the Lighthouse Bollard or the Metal “Annapolis” A Bollard which can be ordered as a light bollard. Bollards may also be used for safety purposes, such as where a trail intersects with a road. In such cases a removal bollard may be suitable to allow vehicles or equipment to access the trail. Bollards may also separate or define different areas of use, where fencing would not be needed. A timber bollard is also provided, for use in more rustic situations, such as in a natural trail.
Metal Light Bollard
Metal Bollard shall be 6” ”Annapolis”" Model as manufactured by Landscape Forms or approved equal in black or Blue Spruce Powder Coat. Bollard can also be light bollard. (800) 521-2546
Metal Bollard
Metal Bollard shall be 5” O.D. Domed Metal Bollard model # 2190 3’ ht. Black Powder Coat finish as manufactured by Timber Form Columbia Cascade or approved equal. (503) 223-1157
STANDARD AMENITIES 67 GUIDELINES MANUAL Bollards continued . . .
Wood Bollard
Wood Bollard shall be 8” x 8” Nominal O.D. Free-of heart-center F.O.H.C. douglas Fir Timbers model # 2561 with custom trail blazer as manufactured by Timber Form Columbia Cascade or approved equal. (503) 223-1157
Lighthouse Light Bollard
Lighthouse light bollard shall be metal model # L209 in Black or Blue Spruce Powder Coat as manufactured by Forms and Surfaces or approved equal. (800) 451-0410
68 STANDARD AMENITIES GUIDELINES MANUAL
STANDARD AMENITIES
RAILINGS / FENCING
ELEVATION DETAIL
Jersey Barrier Wave Fence
Adjacent to the Railroad, Jersey Barriers shall be provided, with fencing on top. See Table E (page 23) for layout requirements. This protection is required by Metro-North Railroad. The fencing has been designed for visual interest as well as to serve as barrier protection from railroad property. The fencing is required to be galvanized (not powder-coated) due to grounding issues associated with metal fencing adjacent to the railroad tracks. The fence shall be Wave Fence as manufactured by A&T Iron Works of New Rochelle or approved equal. (914) 632-8992
STANDARD AMENITIES 69 GUIDELINES MANUAL Railings/Fencing continued . . .
Railing Along the Waterfront
In order to encourage and maintain visual and physical contact with the Hudson River, railing along the waterfront shall be used in situations only where absolutely necessary. Railing is to be provided at edge of trail where there is a vertical drop to the water more than 18”. Refer to New York State Building Code. Railings may also be provided on a case by case basis, such as where large numbers of people are expected to gather, such as at an Esplanade. The railing has been designed to allow views to the river with minimal obstruction, and to provide comfort by using wood for the handrail. The rail shall be Orsogril Fence as manufactured by A&T Iron Works of New Rochelle. (914) 632-8992
70 STANDARD AMENITIES GUIDELINES MANUAL
Metal Picket Fence Gate with Decorative Laser Cut Railing
Metal picket barrier fencing shall be 6’-0” height. All members shall be made of extruded B131 aluminum alloy. All fence members shall be polyester powder coated with 2 to 30 ml., coating in black. Pickets shall be 1” x 1” and posts shall be 2 1/2” x 21/2”. Fencing shall have two top rails and one bottom rail. Pickets shall be 4” O.C. and posts shall be 6’-0” O.C. max.
Vertical Concrete Wood Style Fence
Vertical Concrete Wood Style fence shall be 6'-8' ht, Grey-brown color mix as manufactured by American Technocrete or approved equal. Product shall be manufactured in a factory that is certified by the National Precast Concrete Association. (818) 990-3362
Horizontal Concrete Cedar Style Fence
Horizontal Concrete Cedar Style fence shall be 6'-8' ht. Grey-brown color mix as manufactured by American Technocrete or approved equal. Product shall be manufactured in a factory that is certified by the National Precast Concrete Association. (818) 990-3362
STANDARD AMENITIES 71 GUIDELINES MANUAL
STANDARD AMENITIES
PLANTING
Native Plantings
Following the Westchester County’s Executive Order # 1-2001 issued December 3, 2000, requiring all County projects to use native plants, RiverWalk projects will also use native plantings. Their use is the standard because of their tolerance for varying conditions, (a harsh river front or bordering the railroad), their low maintenance requirements, their creation of wildlife habitat, and their role in creating a sense of the natural history of the area.
Part of the Overall Design
Plantings are part of the overall design of each trail segment, and should be planned with the trail layout itself as well as with the other amenities. A balance of open lawn and planted areas will provide the user with varied experiences. The plantings will serve to create privacy, screening, shade and to enhance views and provide wildlife habitat and inhibit erosion.
Planting Groups
Plants will have the most impact visually and will grow most robustly if they are planted in mixed groupings which require similar growing conditions. Plants can be grouped among rocks, along the water, and along the trail in varying designs, dependent on design intent, budget, and site conditions.
72 STANDARD AMENITIES GUIDELINES MANUAL
Discussion
lanting standards and plant lists are provided in this section. These Pstandards are to be applied to all categories of Trails, with planting determined on a case by case basis, as part of the overall design, the site conditions, and the budget.
The plants listed are native to the northeast primarily, with some plants which originated further south and now are naturalized here,
with the changing climate. The plants are suited primarily to open exposed areas, with sun and varied soil conditions. Many of the plants will tolerate wet or moist conditions. Plants which attract wildlife are indicated with an asterisk. Woodland plants are not included, as woodland conditions hardly exist in the areas planned for RiverWalk. For those few wooded areas, see material noted in Section 7, Resources.
STANDARD AMENITIES 73 GUIDELINES MANUAL Planting continued . . .
STANDARD AMENITIES
PLANTING
feature standard comments
Select plants which are of the • In order to have plants survive and General same plant community remain healthy, they must need the planting or are compatible same conditions, such as hydric soil and shade, or hard pan and full sun
Planting Trees shall be planted in lawn of Trees or in planting beds
General planting Shrubs and herbaceous of shrubs and material herbaceous shall be planted material in planting beds
Trees in lawn shall be Plant size for trees minimum 3'- 3 1/2' caliper, in lawn B & B, with mulched saucer
Plant size for trees Trees in beds may be any size, in beds on a case by case basis
Plant sizes for Plants in beds may be any size, • Plants may be B & B, in containers, shrubs and on a case by case basis or bareroot herbaceous plants
Planting beds Filter fabric shall be provided with 3" depth mulch
Mulch shall be chipped hardwood • Necessary to preserve moisture, Mulch material at size 1" to 3" minimize weeds, and to provide a neat of non-diseased trees appearance
Height and distance between • Location of trees must be coordinated Lighting poles to be established with placement of lighting on case by case basis
74 STANDARD AMENITIES GUIDELINES MANUAL
PLANTPLANT LISTLIST botanical name common name comments
MAJOR TREES ( ultimate heights noted ) Acer rubrum Red Maple • 40'-50', good fall color, tolerates wet conditions * Acer saccharum Sugar Maple • 40'-50', good fall color Carya ovata Shagbark Hickory • 75'-100'; good nuts for wildlife * Celtis occidentalis Hackberry • 40'-50' ht. tolerates tough conditions Gleditsia Honeylocust • 25'-50', moist to dry, sun, variety "inermis" has no triacanthos thorns, provides light shade, somewhat over used Gymnocladus Kentucky Coffeetree • 60'-75', moist to dry, sun, hardy, flowers attractive to dioicus insects, leather pods on female plants, good bark * Liquidambar Sweet Gum • 50'-60', good fall color, prickly fruit, won’t styraciflua tolerate pollution Nyssa sylvatica Black Tupelo • 40'-70', likes moisture, great fall color Quercus alba White Oak • 60'-80', moist to dry; slow growing * Quercus bicolor Swamp White Oak • 60'-80', moist to wet; can grow in poor soil * Quercus phellos Willow Oak • 40'-50', fine narrow leaves * Quercus rubra Northery Red Oak • 75'-100', shade tolerant, very hardy *
MINOR TREES ( understory, some flowering; ultimate heights noted ) Amelanchier arborea Serviceberry • 20'-30', white flowers, fruit, good bark, & fall color Amelanchier Shadblow • 10'-20', similar to above, multi-stem canadensis Amelanchier laevis Allegheny Serviceberry • 25'-40', beautiful new growth, delicious fruits Betula nigra River Birch • 50'-60', moist to dry, pink bark, disease free Carpinus caroliniana American Hornbeam • 25'-30', tolerates dry conditions, spring catkins, good fall color, winged nuts Cercis canadensis Eastern Redbud • 20'-30', rose flowers on branches early Spring before leaves; yellow fall leaves Cornus alternifolia Pagoda Dogwood • 15'-20', Light shade, moist acid soil, horizontal branches, bright fruit, handsome bark Cornus florida White Flowering Dogwood • 15'-30', needs good air circulation Crataegus Washington Hawthorne • 25'-30' , well drained soil, disease resistant, phaenopyrum red fruits, thorns Crataegus viridis Green Hawthorne • 20'-35', similar to above, but wider tree, nice bark Hamamelis vernalis Spring Witch Hazel • 8'-12', moist, part sun to shade, flowers in Feb. Hamamelis virginiana Common Witch Hazel • 10'-30', sun or shade; small yellow flowers in Fall Ostrya virginiana American Hop Hornbeam • 30'-50', very hardy; spring catkins; white fruit clusters Sassafras albidum Sassafras • 30'-60', sun, moist to moderately dry, good fall color
EVERGREEN TREES ( ultimate height noted ) Ilex opaca American Holly • 15'-40', likes good drainage, fruit, sun to light shade * Juniperus virginiana Eastern Red Cedar • 15'-35', moist to dry, berries and shelter for wildlife * Pinus strobus Easter White Pine • 60'-90', acidic soil, cones, looses bottom branches as ages, needs sun * Thuja occidentalis Arborvitae,Northern White Cedar • 20'-40', sun to light shade, attractive to deer * Tsuga canadensis Eastern Hemlock • 50'-60', sun to shade, moist to dry, some disease, good for wildlife *
( * plant is also valuable to wildlife, often to insects, butterflies, & birds ) STANDARD AMENITIES 75 GUIDELINES MANUAL Planting continued . . . PLANTPLANT LISTLIST botanical Name common name comments
EVERGREEN SHRUBS Ilex glabra Inkberry • wet to dry; sun to part sun, sandy soil, black fruits * Juniperus horizontalis Creeping Juniper • well drained, sun, low ground cover Kalmia latifolia Mountain Laurel • 4'-15' ht. sun to light shade, acidic soil, flowers Leucothoe axillaris Coast Leucothoe • 3'-4', moist to moderately dry, acidic, sun & shade, white flowers, bronze new leaf growth, Leucothoe fontanesiana Dog Hobble • 3'-6', same as above but larger Rhododendron Catawba Rhododendron • 4'-10' ht. needs acidic well drained soil; violet flowers catawbiense Rhododendron Rosebay • 6'-20' ht, needs some shade, can be lanky, good for maximum screening, flower insignificant Taxus canadensis Canada Yew • 2'-3', moist, cool, acidic, shade, groundcover, attractive to deer
DECIDUOUS SHRUBS Aesculus parviflora Bottlebrush Buckeye • Moist, well drained, high organic soil; good flowers * Amorpha fruticosa False Indigo • 4’-5’ adaptable, on riverbanks, tolerates poor dry soil, small purple flowers Aronia arbutifolia Red Chokeberry • Suckering, sun & shade, white flowers, good fall color, winter fruit, disease & pest free, good for wildlife * Aronia melanocarpa Black Chokeberry • Same as above, with black fruit, less conspicuous * Callicarpa americana American Beautyberry • Good drainage, sun to light shade, purple fruit, Calyanthus floridus Carolina Allspice • Very adaptable, pest free, unusual deep red flower Clethra alnifolia Summersweet • Sun to part shade; moist acidic soil best, summer fragrant blooms; good for insects, fall color good * Cornus amomum Silky Dogwood • To 10' ht. Wet soil, blue fruit, for naturalizing & wildlife * Cornus sericea Red Osier Dogwood • To 10' ht. Tolerates dryness, for naturalizing & wildlife * Diervilla lonicera Dwarf Bush-honeysuckle • 2'-4' ht, sun to light shade, for naturalizing in masses Fothergilla gardenii Dwarf Witch-alder • 2'-5' ht, moist to wet soil, compact plant, fall color * Hydrangea arborescens Smooth Hydrangea • Light shade, well-drained moist soil, white large flowers Hydrangea quercifolia Oakleaf Hydrangea • Same as above, tolerates quite heavy shade, fall color Hypericum prolificum Shrubby St. John's Wort • 3'-6', moist to dry, well drained, yellow flowers in summer, adaptable, disease free Ilex verticillata Winterberry • 6'-10', sun to light shade, moist, acidic, strong fruits, wildlife* Itea virginica Virginia Sweetspire • 3'-6', prefers wet, tolerates dry, white blooms early summer, red twigs, good fall color * Myrica pensylvanica Northern Bayberry • 3'-10', thrives in poor dry or wet soil, problem-free, good naturalizer, colonizes Potentilla fruiticosa Bush Cinquefoil • 1'-3', thrives in infertile sunny dry sites, long flowering Rhododendron Sweet Azalea • 5'-10', moist acidic soil, sun to light shade, ragrant arborescens white flowers early summer * Rhodo. calendulaceum Flame Azalea • 8'-15', moist to dry acidic, sun to light shade, orange • large yellow flowers spring; not fragrant Rhodo. Canadense Rhodora • 2'-4', moist to wet, cool, acidic, partial sun, purple to lavender to white flowers early spring Rhodo. periclymenoides Pinxterbloom Azalea • 3'-8', moist acidic, sun to light shade, light to dark pink flowers in Spring, delicate fragrance, woodland plant * Rhodo. prinophyllum Rose Shell Azalea • Same as Pinxterbloom, bluer leaves, dark pink fragrant flowers in spring * ( * plant is also valuable to wildlife, often to insects, butterflies, & birds ) 76 STANDARD AMENITIES GUIDELINES MANUAL
PLANTPLANT LISTLIST
botanical name common name comments
DECIDUOUS SHRUBS ( continued ) Rhodo. Vaseyi Pinkshell Azalea • 4'-8', moist to somewhat dry, sun to light shade, pink bloom early Spring, good Fall color* Rhodo. Viscosum Swamp Azalea • 4'-10', sun to light shade, moist to wet, white to pink very fragrant summer bloom. Attracts wildlife* Rhus aromatica Fragrant Sumac • 4'-8' full, dense, most to dry, sun, thrives in poor soil, suckering, yellow flowers, good fall color, red fruits* Rhus aromatica Grow-Low Fragrant • 2'-3' , same as above but low, groundcover or to stabilize ‘Grow-Low’ Sumac Rhus copallinum Shining Sumac • 5'-15', sun, moist to dry, red fall color, suckers & spreads Rosa blanda Meadow or Smooth Rose • 2'-6', sun, moist to dry, pink to dark pink flowers summer, thorns, rapid spreader forming dense thickets* Rosa carolina Pasture Rose • 2'-3', light to dark pink summer, thorns, not too spreading Rosa nitida New England Rose • 1'-3', wet, for marshes and river banks, pink flowers* Rosa palustris Swamp Rose • 5'-10', moist to moderately dry, sun, soft pink large single in summer, red orange fruits, good for birds* Rose virginiana Virginia Rose • 2'-6', moist to dry, sun, light pink summer bloom, most common wild rose on east coast, red fall leaves & canes* Salix discolor Pussy Willow • 6'-15', moist to wet in swamps, sun, seeds freely Sambucus canadensis Common Elderberry • 5'-10', sun to light shade, moist to wet, fast growing stoloniferous, White flowers, fruit valued by wildlife* Spirea latifolia Meadowsweet • 2'-5', moist, suckering, white to pink flowers, butterflies* Spirea tomentosa Steeplebush • 2'-5', moist to somewhat dry, pink flowers mid summer * Symphoricarpos albus Snowberry • 2'-3', moist to dry, white-pink flowers, fruits for wildlife, grows well in difficult sites, stabilizes slopes, some shade Symphoricarpos Indian Currant, Coralberry • 3'-4', same as above, with large coral red fruits, for birds orbiculatus Vaccinium angustifolium Lowbush Blueberry • 6"-24", well-drained, moist to dry, acidic, low groundcover, fruits only in sun, brilliant red fall color in sun Vaccinium corymbosum Highbush Blueberry • 3'-10', wet to moderately dry, acidic, white flowers, red fall color, red twigs
Note: All viburnums are excellent for wildlife and for naturalizing, as well as for shrub groupings
Viburnum acerifolium Mapleleaf Viburnum • 3'-6', moist to dry, sun & shade, creamy white flowers spring, will grow in understory of dry upland woods, blue black fruits Viburnum alnifolium Hobblebush • 3'-10', shade, moist, cool, white flowers early Spring, leaves turn varied colors in fall as do fruits Viburnum dentatum Arrowwood • 6'-12', moist to dry, sun to light shade, creamy white flowers late Spring, blue-black fruits fall Viburnum lentago Nannyberry • 8'-15', moist to dry, sun to light shade, creamy white flowers late Spring, berries red to black, tough adaptable large shrub Viburnum nudum Witherod, Possum Haw • 6'-12', wet to moderately dry, sun to light shade, creamy white flowers late spring, beautiful fruits in many colors, outstanding fall color, very good habit Viburnum opulus var. American Cranberrybush • 5'-15', moist to wet, sun, white flowers early summer, red americanum (trilobum) fruits, maple shape leaves, fast growing, suckering shrub
( * plant is also valuable to wildlife, often to insects, butterflies, & birds ) STANDARD AMENITIES 77 GUIDELINES MANUAL Planting continued . . .
PLANTPLANT LISTLIST
botanical name common name comments
DECIDUOUS SHRUBS ( continued ) • 8'-15', moist to dry, sun to light shade, creamy white flowers Viburnum prunifolium Black Haw early spring, suckers, varied color fruits, deep red fall color
Xanthorhiza simplicissima Yellowroot • 12'-18', moist to dry, sun to shade, lacey foliage, bronze in fall, very adaptable, good as groundcover
HERBACEOUS PLANTS Amsonia Common Bluestar • 3' ht. full plant, blue flowers spring, yellow fall color tabernaemontana Aruncus dioicus Goatsbeard • 3'-5', part sun, shade, moist, white flowers * Asclepias incarnata Swamp Milkweed • 2'-4', moist to wet, pink flowers in summer, clumping, * Asclepias purpurescens Purple Milkweed • 2'-4', moist to dry, rose purple in summer, * Ascelpias syriaca Common Milkweed • 2'-4', moist to dry, sun or some shade, colonizes heavily * Ascelpias tuberosa Butterfly Weed • 1'-3', sun, part sun, striking orange flower in summer, * Aster concolor Eastern Silver Aster • 1'-3', sun, dry, well drained soil, violet flowers fall * Aster cordifolius Blue Wood Aster • 2'-3', grows in shade, violet flower fall, seeds heavily * Aster divaricatus White Wood Aster • 1'-2', sun to shade, moist to dry, white flowers fall, seeds heavily * Aster laevis Smooth Aster • 1'-3', sun, part sun, moist to dry, violet flower fall, adaptable, neat * Aster novae-angliae New England Aster • 2'-6', sun, part sun, moist, violet to purple flowers fall, showy * Baptisia australis Blue False Indigo • 3'-4', sun, part sun, moist to dry, violet blue flowers Spring Boltonia asteroides False Aster • 2'-4', sun, part sun, wet to dry, white to pink flowers fall, hardy * Coreopsis tripteris Tall Tickseed • 3'-6', sun, part sun, moist, light yellow summer, seeds heavily * • 1'-2', sun, part sun, moist to mod. dry, yellow flowers Coreopsis verticillata Threadleaf Tickseed summer, hybrids such as 'Moonbeam' and cultivars available and good * Ecinacea purpureum Purple Coneflower • 2'-3 1/2 ;sun, moist to somewhat dry, rose color flowers summer * Eupatorium coelestinum Hardy Ageratum • 2'-3', sun to light shade, moist, blue flowers summer, spreads * Eupatorium fistulosum Joe Pye Weed • 3'-8', sun, part sun, moist to wet, mauve-red purple late summer, Species E. maculatum & E. purpureum have good cultivars * Eupatorium perfoliatum Boneset • 2'-5', sun, part sun, moist, white flowers summer * Euphorbia corollata Flowering Spurge • 2'-3', sun, part sun, dry, masses of long blooming white flowers summer to fall, heat and drought tolerant, very hardy Filipendula rubra Queen of the Prairie • 3'-7', wet, sun, part sun, pink flowers in summer, tall astilbe-like Helianthus giganteus Swamp Sunflower • 6'-10', moist to wet, yellow flowers fall, good cultivars available * Helianthus microcephalus Small-headed • 3'-6', sun to light shade, moist, yellow flowers in late Sunflower summer, tolerates drought *
( * plant is also valuable to wildlife, often to insects, butterflies, & birds ) 78 STANDARD AMENITIES GUIDELINES MANUAL
PLANTPLANT LISTLIST botanical name common name comments HERBACEOUS PLANTS ( continued ) Heiopsis helianthoides Oxeye • 3'-5', moist to dry, sun, yellow flowers in summer, very hardy
Hibiscus moscheutos Swamp Rose Mallow • 4'-6', moist to wet, sun, white to pink large flowers *
Iris versicolor Northern Blueflag • 3'-4', moist to wet, blue violet flower late spring
Liatris spicata Blazing Star • 2'-4', sun, part sun, moist to dry, pink-purple flower summer *
Monarda didyma Beebalm • 3'-4', sun to light shade, moist to somewhat dry, scarlet red flowers in summer, easy to grow *
Monarda fistulosa Wild Bergamot • 3'-4', sun to light shade, moist to somewhat dry, violet flowers in summer, easy to grow *
Monarda punctata Horsemint, Dotted • 2'-3', sun, part sun, moist to dry, pink, green,& brown purple Mint flowers in late summer *
Penstemon digitalis Tall White • 2'-4', sun to light shade, moist, white spring flower; cultivar Beardtongue Husker Red' good plant with burgundy leaf, best in masses * Phlox maculata Meadow Phlox • 2'-3', sun, part sun, moist, pink-lavender in summer
Phlox pilosa Prairie Phlox • 1'-2', sun to light shade, moist to dry, pink-lavender late spring Pycnanthemum Narrow-leaved Mt. • 1'-2', sun-part shade, moist to dry, white flowers summer, tenuifolium Mint hardy* Rudgeckian fulgida Orange Coneflower • 2-2 1/2', known has black-eyed Susan, sun, moist to somewhat dry, golden yellow flowers midsummer
Solidago caesia Blue-stemmed • 1'-4', sun to shade, moist to dry, grows at woodlands edge, Goldenrod golden yellow flowers fall, arching graceful *
Solidago rigida Stiff Goldenrod • 2'-5', sun, part sun, moist to dry, yellow flowers fall, good foliage * Solidago sempervirens Seaside Goldenrod • 2'-4', sun, part sun, sandy soil needed, grows in dunes, golden yellow flowers fall * Solidago speciosa Showy Goldenrod • 2'-5', sun to part sun, moist to dry, light yellow flowers fall * Vernonia noveboracensis New York Ironweed • 4'-8', sun, moist , deep reddish purple flower late summer * GRASSES Andropogon gerardi Big Bluestem • 4'-7', sun, bronze fall color
Chasmanthium latifolium Northern Sea Oats • 2'-4', sun to part shade, tolerates salt spray, spreads
Panicum virgatum Switch Grass • 3'-6', any soil, sun, tolerates salt spray, fall color, cultivar Heavy Metal' is blue-toned and striking Schizachyrium Little Bluestem • 2'-4', sun, thrives on dry sites & poor soil; colorful fall foliage scoparium Sorgastrum nutans Indian Grass • 2'-5', sun, burnt orange fall color
( * plant is also valuable to wildlife, often to insects, butterflies, & birds )
STANDARD AMENITIES 79 GUIDELINES MANUAL Planting continued . . .
LIST OF PLANTS NOT TO BE USED botanical name common name comments TREES Acer platanoides Norway Maple These plants, including all varieties, are not to be used for RiverWalk. Ailanthus altissima Tree of Heaven They are invasive, are overused and Pyrus calleryana Callery Pear have poor structure. In addition, they SHRUBS are not native and crowd out desirable Berberis thunbergii Japanese Barberry native plants.
Berberis vulgaris European Barberry Some plants, like the Callery Pear, Eleagnus species Russian and Autumn Olive are not to be installed because of their Euonymus alatus Burning Bush overuse and their poor structure. Lonicera maackii Amur Honeysuckle Other plants, such as English Ivy and Lonicera morrowii Morrow's Honeysuckle Porcelain Berry spread rampantly Lonicera tatarica Tatarian Honeysuckle as groundcovers or up walls, fences and buildings. They need frequent Rhamnus cathartica Common Buckthorn, Tallhedge trimming and tend to crowd out Rosa multiflora Multiflora Rose desirable, less aggressive species. HERBACEOUS This list has been created based on Ampelopsis brevipedunculata Porcelain Berry information and lists from the following Buddleia species Butterfly Bush sources: Wildlife Foundation, The Celastrus orbiculatus Asian Bittersweet Nature Conservancy and the New Euonymus fortunei Wintercreeper York State Ad Hoc Invasive Plant Hedera helix English Ivy Group. See Section 7: Resources Lythrum salicaria Purple Loosestrife (page 95) which identify these and other related sources. Lonicera japonica Japanese Honeysuckle
English Ivy Porcelain Berry
Callery Pear Burning Bush Japanese Barberry
80 STANDARD AMENITIES GUIDELINES MANUAL
SUGGESTED AMENITIES
STRUCTURES
Shade Structures
Shade structures can be constructed of a variety of materials. Versatile and durable tensile fabric structures provide shade, shelter and architectural interest while at the same time visually suggest the sails of ships along the Hudson.
Metal Pavilions
Metal pavilions provide shade and shelter and can provide architectural interest through color and shape. The uses of wood shelters are not part of the cohesive design vocabulary for RiverWalk, since shelters will be used in primarily urban areas. Choices shall be on a case-by-case basis.
SUGGESTED AMENITIES 81 GUIDELINES MANUAL S t r u c t u r e s c o n t i n u e d . . .
Portals
Portals and/or gateway entrances to RiverWalk can enhance some of the more remote areas of the trail, serve to delineate trail locations and provide linkages to a municipality.
Open Trellis
Open Trellis structures provide filtered shade for seating areas and structural interest as well.
Banner Poles
Banner Poles can serve many purposes, such as to identify RiverWalk access points from both the River and from visually congested urban areas; announce festivals, local attractions or seasonal events and provide eye-catching, visually pleasing accents along a section of the RiverWalk.
82 SUGGESTED AMENITIES GUIDELINES MANUAL
SUGGESTED AMENITIES
BRIDGES
Bridge Styles
Bridges should have a simple style and not be “rustic” or “Adirondack” style. They can also be more inventive and even fun like the photo below, playing up the RiverWalk water focus.
Bridges should compliment the chosen site amenities such as benches and lighting.
SUGGESTED AMENITIES 83 GUIDELINES MANUAL
SUGGESTED AMENITIES
RIVER ACCESS / EDGE TREATMENTS
Disability Access
Design of areas for fishing must also include provisions for people with disabilities. This includes fishing piers and all other areas with railings. Refer to ADA Guidelines.
Piers
Piers that allow for a variety of river craft docking and offloading should be considered when designing a pier or river access area. Where conditions allow, boat docking facilities should be provided.
Boat Ramps
Where conditions allow, public boat ramps should be considered in planning trail improvements at the waterfront, including canoe/ kayak launching areas, especially if a ramp is not currently available in the community.
84 SUGGESTED AMENITIES GUIDELINES MANUAL
SUGGESTED AMENITIES
MISCELLANEOUS
Playgrounds
Municipalities may choose to construct additional amenities such as playgrounds. Playgrounds along the riverfront should have components that celebrate the river. It may be a water theme, boating theme, and/or cultural theme, further enhancing and reinforcing the importance and beauty of the Hudson River.
Let-downs
Where practical and desirable “let-downs” to the water should be incorporated into the trail design, for pedestrians to experience the waterfront, as well as for boaters to access the trail.
Riprap
In areas where riprap is necessary, it should be incompliance with U.S. Army Corps of Engineer standards. The color of the riprap shall be of a natural indigenous rock with a tan-brown and grey range of color (schist and/or granite). Size will be determined by the site conditions and as per the engineer’s recommendations.
SUGGESTED AMENITIES 85 GUIDELINES MANUAL S t r u c t u r e s c o n t i n u e d . . .
Telescopes
Many areas along the Hudson River present wonderful opportunities for viewing watercraft as well as wildlife such as birds, fish and marsh life. Telescopes should be considered in several areas along the trail to involve trail use more interactively with the River’s scenic resources.
Re-use
Re-use of existing old quarried stone or other stable architectural features from pre-existing structures along the waterfront front, should be considered for re-use to create an historic context as well as cultural enhancements on various sites.
Etched Paving
To help orient visitors to the trail and or mark important locations along the trail, names of streets, people and/or events can be etched the paving materials.
86 SUGGESTED AMENITIES SECTION typical Scenarios 5
Introduction
he purpose of the following Scenarios are to illustrate how RiverWalk may appear in different situations. They are provided for inspiration and ideas, and based on existing T settings proposed for RiverWalk. While each setting is unique, the Scenarios presented show an attractive and functional solution to a specific setting and a response to different site constraints. A Trail Through an Existing Parking Area
After
Before
TYPICAL SCENARIOS 87 GUIDELINES MANUAL Typical Scenarios continued . . . B Trail Adjacent to Railroad
C Tributary Treatment with Access to Water from Trail
88 TYPICAL SCENERIOS GUIDELINES MANUAL
D Trail with Limited Land Area
Photographic Example
TYPICAL SCENARIOS 89 GUIDELINES MANUAL Typical Scenarios continued . . . E Esplanade in Industrial Areas
Former Railroad Power Station in Yonkers
Before
After 90 TYPICAL SCENERIOS GUIDELINES MANUAL
F Linkages on Existing Sidewalk
Urban Sidewalk
Rural Sidewalk
TYPICAL SCENARIOS 91
SECTION Linkages parking & 6 traffic control
Introduction
hile standards and amenities are Standards cannot be established for linkages described in this Manual for the and parking as each municipality has W trail itself, different conditions they must recommendations are made here consider when determining how for linkages, access and parking to connect trail segments, how to for RiverWalk. get to the trail, and where to park.
Linkages
Parking As a municipality or other entity plans a weekends at train stations, or in commercial segment of RiverWalk, consideration should areas where little activity occurs during the be given to providing parking facilities weekends or summer evenings. Such shared specifically for RiverWalk users. While it is usage should be explored by each understood that many users will walk from municipality. their homes, work places and train stations to RiverWalk, others will come by car. Similar Signage should be provided to direct to the small parking areas provided in motorists to parking areas designated for various locations along the North and South RiverWalk. If a parking area for RiverWalk County Trailways, these areas should be users is not adjacent to the trail, signage located where there are no other parking should be provided to direct users to the trail. options for users. See Section 4: Amenities - Signage (page 30) It is possible that existing parking areas can be utilized by RiverWalk users, such as on ( continued on page 94 )
LINKAGES, PARKING & TRAFFIC CONTROL 93 GUIDELINES MANUAL Linkages, Parking & T r a f f i c C o n t r o l c o n t i n u e d . . .
Access and Connections
Access to the Trail Access to and from Downtowns Depending on the situation, a municipality or Where RiverWalk is near downtowns or private entity may want to have access to the commercial centers, a clear connecting path trail from one or two specific locations. In or paths should be provided, with signage other situations the trail may be accessed indicating the direction to RiverWalk and the from any place along its length. In each case, direction to the downtown from Riverwalk. signage will direct the user to the trail. The Directional Sign type shall be used.
Access to and from Train Stations and Connecting Segments of RiverWalk Boat / Ferry Landings Where RiverWalk segments are not Where RiverWalk is near a train station or contiguous, clear signage is to be provided to boat/ferry landing, a clear connecting path lead the user from one segment to the next. should be provided, with signage indicating The signage to be used in these cases is the the direction to RiverWalk. The Directional Trailblazer, and, in cases where more Sign type shall be used. information is needed, the Informational Sign shall be used.
Traffic Control
ignage for control of the use of Transportation Officials) policies and the RiverWalk is detailed in Chapter 4. NYS MUTCD (NYS Manual of Uniform SWhere RiverWalk intersects with a Traffic Control Devices). Adherence to road, all traffic control devices, such as cross ADAAG (American with Disabilities Act walks, signage, vehicular and pedestrian Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and signals, are the responsibility of the Facilities), is also the responsibility of the municipality, and will adhere to AASHTO municipality. (American Association of State Highway and
94 LINKAGES, PARKING & TRAFFIC CONTROL SECTION Resources 7
Westchester County Department of Planning http://www.co.westchester.ny.us/planning/mainhome.html
Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities (ADAAG also known as ADA) http://www.access-board.gov/adaag/html/adaag.html
New York State Department Of Transportation http://www.dot.state.ny.us/info/communicate.html
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities, (AASHTO), 1999) http://www.aashto.org/aashto/organization.nsf/homepage/overview
NYS Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (NYS MUTCD) The new Federal MUTCD (Millennium Edition) debuted in December 2000. You can view it online and download it directly (free) from the Federal Highway Administration website. http://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/kno-millenium.html
You can also purchase it through various organizations: AASHTO - American Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials ATSSA - American Traffic Safety Services Association ITE - Institute of Transportation Engineers
Metro North Railroad http://www.mta.nyc.ny.us/mnr/
U.S. Army Corp of Engineers http://www.usace.army.mil/ContactUs.html
New York State Department of Conservation http://www.dec.state.ny.us/website/site/contact.html
Invasive Plants: • www.nps.gov/plants/alien/pubs/midatlantic/toc.html • www.ipcnys.org (New York State Invasive Plant Council) • http://nature.org/initiatives/invasivespecies (The Nature Conservancy)
Native Plants: “Go Native” (Recommended Westchester County Native Plants for Homeowners and Landscapers), Westchester County Parks, undated http://www.westchestergov.com/parks/
RESOURCES 95 I stand by the river and I know that it has been here yesterday and will be here tomorrow and that therefore, since I am part of its pattern today, I also belong to all its yesterdays and will be a part of all its tomorrows.
This is a kind of earthly immortality, a kinship with rivers and hills and rocks, with all things and all creatures that have ever lived or ever will live or have their being on the earth. It is my assurance of an orderly continuity in the great design of the universe.
Virginia S. Eifert