NEWS • TRAINING • TECHNOLOGY • FUNDING • LEGISLATION • RESOURCES
TheThe futurefuture ofof trailstrails andand greenwaysgreenways inin AmericaAmerica NewNew Years Years 20072007
American Trails NEW YEARS 2007
On the Cover: The bridge over the Corps of Engineers’ Murray Lock and Dam connecting trail systems in Little Rock and North Little Rock, AR (photo by Drew Harris, CJRW) Features
The Future of Trails and Greenways in America 6 Recommendations put forth at the National Trails Symposium By Robert Searns, American Trails Chair The biggest dam bridge of all 8 A bridge of dreams in Little Rock, Arkansas Little Rock will host the next National Trails Symposium in 2008 National Trail Awards for 2006 10 American Trails recognizes volunteers, professionals, and trails community leaders For more on all of the award winners see www.AmericanTrails.org/awards/index.html National Recreation Trails Photo Contest 14 Great photos of great trails in the 2006 contest sponsored by American Trails See the winners and all the entries at www.AmericanTrails.org/nationalrecreationtrails Health and trails in Michigan 16 Suburban trailways master plan helps counter unhealthy trend By John J. Crumm,AICP and Gerard P.Santoro,AICP American Trails and National Trails Symposium news 22 New American Trails Board Members and Patron Members Facts and figures from the National Trails Symposium October 19-22, 2006 The “Medical Mile” 30 Innovative walkway for health hailed by national trails leaders By Terry Eastin Surfaces for accessible trails 34 From the new Accessibility Guidebook on Outdoor Recreation and Trails By Janet Zeller, USDA Forest Service Trail Tracks Editorial: Why do people leave the trail? 38 America’s national historic trails come in many shapes, sizes, and partnerships By Karen Umphress,American Trails Board Member NEWS • AWARDS • RESOURCES • EVENTS • PEOPLE • PLACES • PROJECTS
www.AmericanTrails.org 3 American Trails Little Rock in 2008 Executive Committee Bob Searns, Chair, The GreenWay Team, Inc. Roger Bell, Vice-Chair, Professional Trailbuilders Assn. Terry Hanson, Treasurer, City of Redding Jim Wood, Secretary, FL Office of Greenways & Trails Hulet Hornbeck, Member at Large Mike Passo, Member at Large, Elakah Expeditions Pam Gluck, Executive Director The future of trails— in Arkansas Directors By Pam Gluck, Executive Director, American Trails John R. Collins, Jr., PhD, University of North Texas Mylon Filkins, DVM, Equestrian Representative hy did we choose Arkansas as the location for the next Marianne Fowler, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy National Trails Symposium? I’m excited to share some of the Gil Penalosa, Walk & Bike for Life W Joe Taylor, Quad Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau “wow factors” that amazed me and led to the final decision in mak- Karen Umphress, NOHVCC ing Little Rock the place to be in November of 2008. Bob Walker, MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks Tim Wegner, International Mountain Bicycling Assn. First, we are all trying to make the connection between trails and Terry Whaley, Ozark Greenways health. Little Rock’s cutting-edge Medical Mile project, coordinated Advisory Board by trail innovator Terry Eastin, is a linear outdoor health museum. It Steve Anderson, Pima County (AZ) Parks & Rec. Dept. is “lighting the way” for us to learn how to work with the medical Peter Axelson, Beneficial Designs, Inc. Dana Bell, Senior Project Coordinator, NOHVCC community and bring hospitals and physicians across the country Nathan Caldwell, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service “on board” with trails. See page 32 to learn more about it. James Coffman, RLA, ASLA, Coffman Studio Tom Crimmins, USDA Forest Service Retired Then there is the Big Dam Bridge project, over the Arkansas River, Christopher Douwes, Rec. Trails Program Mgr., FHWA Troy Duffin, President, Alpine Trails, Inc. that is a shining example of how to take a BIG vision and make it John C. Fegan, Bicycle Program Mgr., FHWA happen. Judge Buddy Villines of Pulaski County had the concept and Mark Goldbach, Nat’l Trails Coordinator, BLM worked tirelessly to make it happen. He says “We build roads Jan Hancock, Equestrian Representative Patti Klein, Nat’l Stewardship Coordinator, BLM because we have to move cars in commerce. We build trails to Erik Larsen, Palmer Course Design improve the quality of life for our citizens.” Read more on page 8. Kay Lloyd, Past Chair, American Trails Board Stuart Macdonald, Nat’l Assn. State Trail Administrators The mayors of both Little Rock and North Little Rock live trails. Roger Moore, Associate Professor, NC State University Deb Salt, Nat’l Trails Coordinator, BLM Jim Dailey, Mayor of Little Rock, believes “The artistry of our land- Rodger Schmitt, BLM Retired scape, the health of our citizens, and the desire for innovative eco- Michael Schuett, Assistant Professor, Texas A & M nomic stimulus that harmonizes with the environment have given us Jonathan Stephens, Trails Program Mgr., USDA Forest Service a mandate for developing the Arkansas River Trail.” Scott Weaver, Student Conservation Association Mayor Patrick Hays thinks, “The River Trail is one of the most American Trails Magazine scenic bicycle and walking trails in the country.” Terry Eastin and I American Trails Magazine (ISSN 1082-8303) is the maga- zine of American Trails, the nonprofit organization dedi- had the memorable experience of touring the lovely North Little cated to quality trails and greenways within 15 minutes of Rock River Trail with Mayor Hays. This proud and enthusiastic every American home or workplace. Editor: Stuart H. Macdonald “father” of the trail actually helped lay out sections of it. Subscriptions are $35 per year or free with membership– The leaders and people of Little Rock are enthusiastic about their see page 28 for membership form. Reprints and copies. Unless otherwise noted, articles trail projects and are just as excited to share them with you at the may be copied or reprinted if credit is given to American 2008 National Trails Symposium. So mark your calendars and join Trails, American Trails Magazine, and the author. For reprinted articles and excerpts, contact the original author us in Arkansas in 2008! or publisher. Contributions. We welcome contributions on trails Identification Statement issues, advocacy, and news, either original material or suggestions from other publications. We cannot pay for Publication's title and number: American Trails Magazine (ISSN submissions, but authors will receive full credit. 1082-8303) Advertising. For advertising rates, please call (530) 547- 2060. Issue date: January 10, 2007 American Trails Statement of frequency: Published three times a year P.O. Box 491797 Authorized organization's name, address, phone number: Redding, CA 96049-1797 American Trails, P.O. Box 491797, Redding, CA 96049-1797 Phone (530) 547-2060 Physical Address: 21750 Rolling Hills Drive, Palo Cedro, CA Fax (530) 547-2035 96073 - Phone (530) 547-2060 [email protected] Issue Number: Volume 35, Number 3 www.AmericanTrails.org Subscription price: $35 per year or free with membership
4 NEW YEARS 2007 American Trails The National Trails Training Partnership www.NTTP.net
American Trails to help states meet trails training needs MERICAN TRAILS’ GOAL FOR TRAINING is to Aexpand efforts to provide better education programs and technical assistance by working with the states and local communities, nonprofit groups, and agencies who are plan- ning, building, and managing trails. • The states may provide training venues, and may charge a We are expanding key elements of the National Trails training fee. The goal of in-state travel is to reduce travel Training Partnership (NTTP) to better serve the needs of the time and cost for the participants and for the states. nationwide trails community, both motorized and nonmotor- These educational workshops are available for your agency ized. We are working with the State Trails Programs to help or nonprofit organization. Each workshop can be coordinated bring more training and expertise directly to them. with a state trails conference or other training event, held as These efforts are in support of the Recreational Trails a single event, or held as a series in different locations. The Program goals to help local trail project sponsors build better goal is to bring more training to the staff and volunteers who and more cost effective trails. We are emphasizing accessible need it, while minimizing travel and other expenses. trails, assessing trails, trail crew leadership, developing a • Understanding Accessibility and Building Better Trails state training program, and working with developers. • Universal Trail Assessment Process Workshop States may use RTP Educational Funds for safety and envi- • TrailWare Workshop ronmental protection, including training for trail planning, • Trail Crew Leadership Training design, construction, maintenance, operation, and assess- • Creating a State Trails Training Program Workshop ment. States may pay for the training, and could charge a fee • Working with Developers Forum to attendees to recoup some or all of the workshop costs. For information on hosting the workshops, contact Pam Benefits of Bringing Trainings to the States: Gluck, Executive Director of American Trails, at (530) 547-2060 or [email protected]. • Bringing training to the states saves scarce travel funds, reduces travel time, and eliminates the need to obtain out- of-state travel permission. NTTP can help publicize your • Staff and volunteers receive training they could not get without significant time and travel expenditures. trails training opportunities • Youth are better educated for future employment in outdoor ind the class or workshop you need on the most compre- recreation and natural resources fields. Fhensive calendar on the Web for trail-related training and • The availability of skilled volunteers and staff reduces the education. Hosted by www.AmericanTrails.org, the calen- cost of local trail projects and provides more significant dar can also be accessed from www.NTTP.net. We’re also matching services. eager to promote your trails training opportunities of every kind on our online calendar. Please add us to your mailing • Better training of local trail project sponsors will result in list and we’ll help publicize your events. We also invite you better trails built at a lower cost to be more sustainable and to include a link to www.NTTP.net on your website. The accessible over the long term. combined American Trails and NTTP websites receive over • Better-trained volunteers will do work with more value. 100,000 visitors per month. The National Trails Training Partnership brings you hundreds of resources, studies, and articles, as well as an online calendar of scheduled training on all topics related to trails and greenways.Visit us at www.NTTP.net.
www.AmericanTrails.org 5
The biggest dam bridge of all A trail facility with extensive river views in the heart of the Little Rock urban area
T WAS PULASKI COUNTY JUDGE BUDDY VILLINES Iwho came up with a name for the bridge. When it was uncertain to officials whether they’d be able to build the bridge, the Judge vowed, “We’re going to build that dam bridge,” and the name, which officially became “the Big Dam Bridge,” stuck. Comprising 4,226 linear feet, the bridge over the Corps of Engineers’ Murray Lock and Dam is the longest bridge built specifically for pedestrians and bicyclists in the world (the longest in the U. S. is the Chain of Rocks Bridge in St. Louis, at 5,350 feet, but it was originally a highway bridge). Some of the more impressive design aspects of the Big Dam Bridge include girders that curve up to a 82.3 meter radius and a substructure designed to withstand winds up to 160.93 kmph. Built with a 14-foot-wide deck, the bridge is capable A bridge of dreams of handling pedestrian and bicycle traffic and it was also “Our spirits will be renewed as we gaze upon the beauty built with gentle slopes to assure compliance with Uniform before us, over this river whose waters have come and Federal Accessibility Standards. passed this way for thousands of years, connecting us to our history— our past, our present, and our future. Our future, our history yet to be written. We can be what we choose to be. If we can conceive it, we can achieve it! For all things are possible, if we only believe! Let this be a BRIDGE OF DREAMS." — Judge Buddy Villines
The bridge connects about 17 miles of trail in the cities of Little Rock and North Little Rock, bridging the Arkansas River from Little Rock’s Murray Park to North Little Rock’s Cooks Landing. Also known as “Buddy’s Bridge,” Judge Villines was the visionary and pushing force behind the Big Dam Bridge, a lasting legacy for this larger than life southern politician. “Bridges connect people and places. This one will attract people and be good for economic growth. Plus,” says the
8 NEW YEARS 2007 American Trails Little Rock’s big new project
Judge, “our culture has to change its ways. We have to be healthier.” And that may just be the most spectacular feature of the bridge— the way it is bringing people together. Thousands of people gathered on September 30th, 2006 for the opening ceremonies and 5k footrace, and daily walkers, runners, bicyclists, and families from all walks of life can be seen enjoying the bridge. “It truly is a gift to every member of our community,” Anne Woker of Little Rock says about the bridge, “no matter how old or young, rich or poor, fit or physically challenged… and, it is a gift that will keep giving to each of us in our life- times and those to come. Wow, I love that dam bridge!” Speaking at the ribbon cutting ceremony in September, way. We will bring our families and our friends here, and we Judge Villines furthered that notion. “This bridge, like the will meet other families and make new friends. We will be very early bridges, connects people and places. Spanning this better and our community will be better for the experience. river that would divide us, it connects us in a very human Let this be a “Bridge to Friendship and Community.”
www.AmericanTrails.org 9 2006 National Trails Awards American Trails recognizes volunteers, professionals, and trails community leaders
he National Trails Awards are presented by use, the collaboration was developed to raise $350,000 for TAmerican Trails for outstanding efforts to create the construction of a “Medical Mile” on the Arkansas River a national system of trails for all Americans.The Trail. To learn more about this project, see pages 30-32. awards were presented on October 21, 2006, at the The Memorial Hospital Foundation in Logansport, 18th National Trails Symposium in the Quad Cities of Indiana, formed a team to build the River Bluff Trail for the Iowa and Illinois. community, to stress exercise as a path to a healthy life style and longevity, and to insure the protection of community ✯ LIFETIME SERVICE environments by developing a walking trail. AWARD: Bill Bliss For 40 years, Bill commuted to ✯ PARTNERSHIP AWARD: American Discovery work from his home in San Jose Trail, Quad Cities Section to Lockheed in Sunnyvale. He The construction of a segment of the American Discovery crusaded for safer trails, bicy- Trail, completed in 2005, required funding, support and part- cling, and bicycling facilities nership from many entities. The trail section connects the until he was tragically killed Great River Trail/Grand Illinois Trail/Mississippi River Trail while riding his bicycle across in Rock Island over the Government Bridge on Arsenal the country. Bill said, “It is not Island to the Mississippi River Trail in Davenport, Iowa. how fast you ride, all that mat- ters is that you are moving in the ✯ TRAILS PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD: right direction.” This was Bill’s Steve Anderson approach to biking, advocacy, Steve Anderson of Tucson, Arizona, is Principal Planner of and life. Bill Bliss Pima County Natural Resources Parks & Recreation ✯ Department. A trails advocate for more than twenty years, he HULET HORNBECK has been involved in successful trails and open space conser- AWARD: Tom Ross vation projects at the local, state and national levels. The first Hulet Hornbeck Award was presented to Tom Ross, ✯ OUTSTANDING MEDIA AWARD: who led the National Trails Des Moines Register, Iowa System in the National Park The Des Moines Register newspaper has consistently and for Service’s Washington Office many years been a public source of reliable information and since 1988. As a believer in strong advocate for trail development on a local, state and community-based conservation, federal level. Their coverage has addressed trail issues from Tom encouraged and helped numerous perspectives such as personal stories, land con- sustain long-term partnerships demnation issues, funding (state & federal), maintenance with national trails organiza- costs, location, public participation, volunteers, design, edi- tions. His guidance, common torials, and public reactions. sense, broad-ranging vision, and ✯ Tom Ross charm have graced the national TRAILS AND THE ARTS AWARD: trails community for 16 years. Back to the River, Inc., Iowa ✯ TRAILS FOR HEALTH AWARD: The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Trail tells stories of the Arkansas River Trail Medical Mile Project Lewis and Clark Expedition through monumental public art Memorial Hospital Foundation - River Bluff Trail and outdoor exhibits in 15 parks and public spaces along 40 miles of the Missouri River. The trail exposes people to the The Arkansas River Trail Medical Mile is a multi-year col- history of Lewis and Clark’s Expedition in a fun, original laboration project between the City of Little Rock and Heart way while encouraging use of the Nebraska and Iowa Clinic Arkansas, the state’s largest cardiology clinic. To raise Riverfront Trails and riverfront parks. awareness of public health issues and the benefits of trail
10 NEW YEARS 2007 American Trails National Trails Awards for 2006 continued
✯ PLANNING/DESIGN AWARD: Fantasy Island Task Force,Arizona Prairie Pathways Interpretive Project, Iowa The Fantasy Island Task Force brought together the trails community and conservation groups. Their Master Plan ulti- mately won over the State Land Department, demonstrating how creative master planning and landscape design, support- ed by community advocacy, can generate a success. Prairie Pathways created a systematic approach to trail interpretation, wayfinding, and other enhancements. Tracing through the communities of Iowa’s Cedar Valley is an 80- mile network of recreational trails that meander through his- toric landscapes and pass by historic resources, providing Georeference marker applied to trail bench opportunities to interpret the region’s cultural heritage. ✯ ✯ STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY AWARD: CORPORATE AWARD: Principal Riverwalk Cedar Valley Trails 911 - Signs Project, Iowa The Principal Riverwalk made a great contribution to Iowa The project designed a comprehensive method to georefer- by highlighting the revitalization of downtown Des Moines. ence trail locations on the 95 miles of paved trail in Black This project links the areas east and west of the Des Moines Hawk County, Iowa. As trail use and the trail system River at the heart of downtown with walking paths along the expanded into secluded areas, an improved means of com- river banks as well as bridges to connect them. municating trail location was needed. National Trails Awards for 2006 continued
UTAH: Ann Parr WEST VIRGINIA: Martha Ballman WISCONSIN: William E. (Bill) Schumann
✯ TRAIL WORKER AWARDS:
6One award per state to recognize the commitment and efforts of private or public sector individuals in working for enhanced trail recreation in their local area or state. ALABAMA: Brooke Beazley ARIZONA: Mark Flint Eagle Days on the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge CALIFORNIA: Ray Ford ✯ OUTSTANDING TRAIL SHARING AWARD: FLORIDA: Tom Daniel Ann Hill, BLM Training Center, Phoenix,Arizona ILLINOIS: Jerry Yockey Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, Missouri & Illinois INDIANA: Greg Midgley As Recreation Training Coordinator for the Bureau of Land Management, Ann Hill is the principal developer of the IOWA: Gerry Rowland nationally recognized trails training course, “Trails KANSAS: Frank Meyer Management: Plans, Projects and People.” Ann has given a KENTUCKY: James Stapleton tremendous amount of time, energy, and passion to provide MONTANA: Jocelyn Dodge this needed training throughout the U.S. NEVADA: Janet Carson The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge was restored in 1999 by Trailnet and the City of Madison, IL, as a bicycle/pedestrian NEW HAMPSHIRE: Dianne Raymond bridge. It connects trail systems in Missouri and Illinois and OREGON: Jim Talburt hosts many recreational activities, including Eagle Days, a SOUTH CAROLINA: Bill Victor bi-state community educational program. The trail bridge WASHINGTON: Sid Knutson provides safe, accessible viewing of the Mississippi River’s large population of wintering bald eagles. WEST VIRGINIA: Doug Wood WYOMING: Matthew Shannon ✯ TRAIL ADVOCACY AWARDS: 6 For more information on all of the award winners see One award per state for efforts to influence public policy www.AmericanTrails.org/awards/index.html. relating to trail planning, protection, and development. ARIZONA: Sue Clark & Linda Anderson-McKee ARKANSAS: Jerry Shields FLORIDA: Ken Bryan ILLINOIS: Chuck Oestreich IOWA: Mark Ackelson KENTUCKY: Nina Aragon MAINE: Sally Jacobs MONTANA: Darlene Tussing NEVADA: Erin Casey NEW HAMPSHIRE: Gail Hanson Tahoe Rim Trail Association volunteers in Nevada
12 NEW YEARS 2007 American Trails
NRT Photo Contest winners Highlights of the 2006 National Recreation Trails Photo Contest
are pleased to announce the Accessibility • photo by Mark Wwinners of the National Musselman Recreation Trails Photo Contest for • Francis Beidler Forest National 2006. American Trails sponsors an Recreation Trail, SC annual contest for photographs of Rail and Canal Trails • photo by National Recreation Trails across Jennifer Waite the country.Awards are made in • Historic Union Pacific Railtrail near several categories and entries to Park City, UT highlight the diversity of the NRTs. We also hope the pictures will make Historic Features • photo by Mary more Americans familiar with these Shaw great trails. • Ghost Town National Recreation Trail at Eliza Furnace, PA Hiking and Walking • photo by Scenery and Natural Features • Terry Whaley photo by Alan S. Carmer • Galloway Creek Greenway National • Indian to Girdwood National Recreation Trail, Springfield, Missouri Rivanna NRT (photo by Diana Foster) Recreation Trail, near Anchorage, AK Equestrian Trails • photo by Peggie Kimberlin Wildlife and Habitat • photo by Mark Musselman • Northshore National Recreation Trail at Grapevine Lake, • Francis Beidler Forest National Recreation Trail, SC near Dallas, Texas Arts and Interpretation • photo from NC Museum Paddling and Water Trails • photo by Eddee Daniel of Art • Milwaukee Urban Water Trail, Milwaukee, Wisconsin • House Creek Greenway National Recreation Trail, at the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh Bicycling • photo by Mary Shaw • Allegheny Highlands section of the Great Allegheny Innovative Facilities • photo by Mary Shaw Passage NRT, PA • Cuyahoga Valley Trail, near Cleveland, Ohio Skiing, Snowshoeing, and Dogsledding • photo from Artistic Merit • photo by Diane McCleland Monongahela River Trails Conservancy • Tunnel Hill National Recreation Trail, IL • Deckers Creek National Recreation Trail, WV Trail Sharing • photo by Mary Shaw Trail Work • photo by Mary Shaw • Great Allegheny Passage NRT; east of Frostburg, MD • Allegheny Highlands section of the Great Allegheny Passage between Rockwood and Confluence, PA Education and Youth Corps • Building Bridges • Falls Lake Trail, South Shore; part of the Mountains-to-Sea National Recreation Trail, North Carolina Youth and Volunteers • photo by Charlie Rowe • The Buck Trail in the Red River Gorge NRT system, KY Health and Fitness • photo by Diana Foster • Rivanna National Recreation Trail, Charlottesville, VA The Great Allegheny Passage NRT (Photo by Mary Shaw) See the photo contest winners and all the entries: Visit www.AmericanTrails.org/nationalrecreationtrails
14 NEW YEARS 2007 American Trails
Health and trails in Michigan Suburban trailways master plan helps counter unhealthy trends
By John J. Crumm,AICP and Gerard P.Santoro,AICP How the Countywide Trailway System Began Prior to 1998 there was no coordinated effort to construct acomb County, Michigan is in the midst of showing trails. The result was that segments of trail were being built how a well thought-out trail system plan can help M in various communities but no agency was in charge of look- counter some of the negative trends in society. How can we ing for linkages. This all changed when Canadian National provide more recreation opportunities when budget restric- Railroad announced the sale of 23.5 miles of railroad corri- tions limit the purchase of traditional large-acreage parks? dor in Macomb County. Spurred on by a local friends group, How can counties create recreation opportunities in a state the County became involved and negotiated a price and that has vested land use decisions at the local jurisdiction? renamed the corridor “The Macomb Orchard Trail.” How do you get people active in suburban communities that are designed for the automobile with little regard for pedes- A commission was formed to construct and maintain the trian flow? Is there a way to curb our reliance on fast food trail. The first action of the commission was to develop a diets and reduce the number of obese people? master plan that emphasized the former agricultural produc- tion of the area and the railroad that Macomb County is one of seven was used to bring fresh fruit and cash counties that comprise the crop products to the various markets Detroit Metropolitan area. The in the Lower Great Lakes Region. county’s 27 local municipal gov- The excitement of residents and gov- ernments include three of the 10 ernmental leaders led to great press largest communities in Michigan coverage and ultimately increased and four of the fastest growth the number of citizens interested in communities. the completion of the trail. With significant growth pres- Within four years Macomb County sures and reduced natural areas, had secured enough funding to pay there is a general consensus in for the design and construction of the this region that there are many entire trail. Developers and adjacent untapped recreational resources store owners began to see the advan- in Macomb County. An increase tage of marketing to trail enthusiasts. in sedentary lifestyle has caused Coffee shops and restaurants saw a the overall health of our citizens dramatic increase of business and to decline and results in other businesses used architectural increased health care costs. features of the trail’s heritage to Like Michigan, Macomb is in blend into the area. Housing develop- the midst of battling the epidem- ers realized that people would pay ic of obesity. Currently Michigan more to live next to this popular trail ranks 8th in the nation of states and so requests came for trail hook having the most obese and over- The Clinton River (photo by Gerard P.Santoro) ups to proposed and existing neigh- weight residents and Macomb is borhoods. One developer went so far ranked right up there. as to name his new development “Trailside Commons.” Macomb County Planning was left to develop a method for increasing the number of recreational alternatives and begin Construction is projected to be completed in summer of an educational campaign to get residents up on their feet and 2007, and staff then turn their focus on developing innova- out of their homes. Along with the positive impacts of tive financing methods for maintenance. As more developers improved health, the new trail system has offered a new way and business owners adjacent to the trail request access, staff for citizens to get to know the community they live in and saw the need to create proper access requirements and to their neighbors. review site plans based on a fee schedule. The site plan
16 NEW YEARS 2007 American Trails
Health and Trails in Michigan continued
Many of the local municipalities within the county realized the benefit of this agricultural heritage trail and the excite- ment generated from this project, allowing the Macomb Planning and Economic Development Department to obtain a grant from the State of Michigan to develop an expanded countywide master trailways plan. The plan’s purpose is to serve as a guide for a unified and coordinated vision for non- motorized transportation between communities and the region. The plan began with each individual community’s trails plan and then looked at connections to adjacent communities and neighboring counties. Trail routes were categorized into regional, county and local trails. Macomb County govern- ment has agreed to be the leader in the development of the regional trails. It was the first in-depth countywide trail plan in the State of Michigan, and as such, was recognized by the American Planning Association Michigan Chapter as the Outstanding Plan for 2004. Photo by Gerard P.Santoro review fee ranges from $650 to $800 and the yearly license fee is based on the number of square feet affected and adjusted by a factor that increases rates for those uses that have a higher impact to the corridor (i.e. above ground requests cost more than a request to place items underground that are soil bored and don’t disturb the finished grade). While this has generated some income, the program will never generate enough funds to pay for all of the mainte- nance costs. Staff research has determined that maintenance costs per year will run from $75,000 to $85,000 and the best way to generate this type of money is to create a mainte- nance endowment fund of approximately one million dollars.
Complete GPS trail condition survey and mapping service: • Easy to read flexible printed reports, digital photos, all associated tables plus “raw data” in any format • Customized feature codes for any database • Map sizes from pocket to kiosk available • Customized data dictionaries available • 30 years of trail building experience (530) 583-9128 • [email protected] www.trailbuilders.org/donald_hays.html
18 NEW YEARS 2007 American Trails Health and Trails in Michigan continued
State of Michigan, and then connecting to neighboring states, as well as to the Trans-Canadian Trail in Ontario. Conclusion A well thought out suburban trailways system can help counter unhealthy habits and trends. Although recent budget restrictions may hold back some development, an organized master plan for trails allows local governments to be more competitive for state, federal, and non-profit funds. The newly developed trails may do more to encourage active use among more residents than traditional large acreage parks. Being able to access cultural, historical, institutional, and natural places makes residents and visitors more engaged in valuing and caring for their communities. For more information on the Macomb County Trailways Master Plan and the Macomb Orchard Trail visit www.wadetrim.com/resources/macomb www.macomborchardtrail.com Photo by Gerard P.Santoro Future Hopes ART THURESON, INC Besides its 130 parks, Macomb County is blessed with a 31- Phone 248.623.8599 FAX 248.623.8766 mile coastline along Lake St. Clair, which is part of the Treated Timber Bridges Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway system. With a navi- • Prefabricated ready to assemble gable river delta and over 44 marinas, this shoreline is a • Quotation includes: Lumber, Piling & Hardware major destination for boaters and anglers in southeast Michigan. The Clinton River and its three major branches Boardwalk Lumber and Timber • Treating: CCA, ACQ, Creosote, Penta, CuNap provide natural greenways linked throughout the county. • Special Fabrication To better identify these recreation and natural resources, the • Glue Laminated Lumber county has developed computer mapping datasets that Piling and Poles include natural areas, historic villages, farm markets, and • Southern Pine, Douglas Fir agricultural heritage sites. This effort has contributed to the development of a “Greenways Vision.” Crane Mats • Made with cut-outs or cable loops The “Greenways Vision” consists of the identifying “hubs” • Quick delivery – any width or length where significant natural areas remain, and then using natur- al stream corridors and the network of pathways to link these Steel Pedestrian Bridges • AISC Certification areas to each other. Benefits include recreation as well as • Treated timber or concrete deck options preservation of natural landscapes and enhancement of habi- • Clear span lengths up to 250 feet tat for wildlife. The model that was created for Macomb County helped promote the region-wide program initiated by the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan. This regional study, being conducted by the GreenWays Initiative (a program associated with the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan) will assist all local and regional governments in setting priorities for developing trail and greenway linkages throughout this region, across the www.artthuresoninc.com
www.AmericanTrails.org 19
New Patrons and Board Members News from American Trails
improving our E.A.R.T.H.: Environment, Activity/Economic, Gil Penalosa and Joe Taylor join Recreation, Transportation and Health.” American Trails Board Gil currently works for the City of Mississauga, Canada, and presides over the nonprofit Walk & Bike for Life. He enjoys Gil Penalosa is a multicultural speaking at conferences and was a keynote at the 2006 executive and a global thinker National Trails Symposium. He uses his leisure time to and marketing strategist with explore outdoor activities with his wife and three children. years of experience in Canada and Latin America. He is pas- Joe Taylor has been employed sionate about trails, greenways, by the Quad Cities Convention and parks, because of their & Visitors Bureau in Moline, impact on the quality of life for Illinois for 15 years, serving as everyone. President and Chief Executive As Commissioner of Parks and Officer since 1998. Joe has also Recreation, Bogotá, Colombia, worked as a newspaper reporter Gil Penalosa Gil led a major redevelopment and editor. He enjoys reading, of its parks and trails system. travel, the quiet and slow pace He also led the closure to cars of 50 miles of roads every of hiking, and the noise and Sunday, where now over 1.5 million people walk, run, skate, frenzy of NASCAR racing. Joe and bike. Gil says “Trails are great equalizers, where every was an extraordinary leader as Joe Taylor person has a sense of belonging, of being equal as a human Co-Chair of the recent 2006 being. Trails are beautiful and fun, but they are also about National Trails Symposium.
For more information, visit them at www.GETREIL.com or We’d like to thank two Patron call 1-888-GET-REIL. Members of American Trails The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America based in Irvine, For the last 16 years, Team REIL has been best known for CA, is a nonprofit trade its sales and ser- association sponsored by vice in the play- Arctic Cat, BRP, Bush ground industry. Hog, Honda, John Deere, Team REIL covers Kawasaki, Polaris, all aspects of the Tomberlin, Suzuki, and Yamaha. Since 1983 SVIA has pro- parks and recreation field, including EZ Dock, its newest moted safe and responsible use of ATVs through rider train- line. One-piece EZ Dock sections are made of roto-molded, ing programs, public awareness, and legislation. SVIA also low density polyethylene and are perfect for water crossings, serves as a resource for ATV research and vehicle standards. outlooks, and fully accessible boardwalks. Team REIL also SVIA’s All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute implements provides construction and replacement services for wood- ATV safety education and awareness programs nationwide. fiber, asphalt, and all Member companies offer the types of nature trails. At ASI RiderCourse, a hands-on Team REIL, it’s a family training course conducted by affair for CEO John licensed instructors, free of Cederlund, who is thrilled charge to purchasers of new to have the entire family ATVs. following him into this fun and exciting industry.
22 NEW YEARS 2007 American Trails 2006 National Trails Symposium Quad Cities attracts 600
HE QUAD CITIES OF IOWAAND ILLINOIS proved • 602 people registered for the Symposium Tto be a memorable location for the 2006 National Trails • 15 attendees from Canada Symposium— not only because of the beautiful trail system • One attendee from France and one from Jamaica and the majestic Mississippi River within walking distance, • 150 Presenters and 170 Volunteers but also from the generous hospitality we received from the • 143 Sponsors and 100 Exhibitors local community and how truly honored and happy they were to have us all there. Please visit the Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau’s website for trails events Joe Walker wins ATV raffle happening throughout the year: www.visitquadcities.com. E THANK JOHN DEERE for their generous dona- tion of a John Deere Buck ATV that was raffled off We also want to recognize the great states of Iowa W at the National Trails Symposium in the Quad Cities. The (www.iowadnr.com) and Illinois (http://dnr.state.il.us/) and winner was Joe Walker of Denton, Texas. Here is what Joe encourage you to browse their websites to check out the told us after being notified that he had won: great things they are doing for trails everyday. “Thank you to American Trails for setting up the raffle. I We also want to thank our cutting-edge presenters and gener- was very excited to get the news. The Deere ATV will be a ous sponsors. Check out all of our sponsors on page 25. You big help with two upcoming trail projects hauling in tools can view all of the presenters’ bios and get their contact and water for the crews that are scheduled to renovate and information at www.AmericanTrails.org/quad/bios.html. swath cut eight miles of trails. With this new resource I will Here are some statistics from the Symposium: have to try and get more crew time organized to get even • 47 of 50 U.S. States and D.C. were represented— all but more done in the future. I really appreciate the support of Hawaii, Louisiana, and Mississippi both John Deere and American Trails.”
2006 National Trails Symposium Thanks to Symposium Sponsors!
isit our generous sponsors and • Ditch Witch – Iowa, Inc. • East Coast Greenway Alliance • Equestrian Land Conservation Resource links to their websites at • Eastern Region, US Forest Service V • International Mountain Bicycling Assn. • Great River Trail www.AmericanTrails.org/quad/ • Labyrinths in Stone • Henry County Tourism Bureau / Geneseo sponsors.html. • PBS&J Chamber of Commerce • Illinois Trail Riders • Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Bald Eagle ~ $15,000 - $25,000 • Illinois Trails Conservancy • Rhino Marking & Protection Systems • Iowa Bicycle Coalition • American Trails • RiverCenter • Iowa Horse Council • City of Davenport • Scott County and Scott County • Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation • John Deere Conservation Board • Iowa Trails Council • Iowa Department of Natural • US Army Corps of Engineers – Mississippi • Keep Scott County Beautiful • League of Illinois Bicyclists Resources River Project • Voss Signs LLC • Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics • Illinois Department of Natural • Wallace’s Garden Center • Minnesota Conservation Corps Resources • Wheeler Lumber, LLC • Mississippi River Parkway Commission • Minnesota Department of Natural • National Center on Accessibility White Pelican ~ $700-$800 • National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Resources • America’s Byways Resource Center Council • Quad Cities Convention & Visitors • Arizona State Horsemen’s Association • National Transportation Enhancements Bureau • Beneficial Designs, Inc. Clearinghouse • BEST-EX, INC. • Nez Perce National Historic Trail • Riverboat Development Authority • North Country Trail Association • Big Muddy Workshop, Inc. • US DOT Federal Highway • Quad Cities: Midwest Arts Mecca Administration • Big R Manufacturing LLC • Quad City Bicycle Club • CONTECH Bridge Solutions Inc. • Quad-City Labyrinth Whooping Crane ~ $10,000 • Custom Manufacturing, Inc. • Raccoon River Valley Trail Association • National Park Service • E.T. Techtonics, Inc. • Riverwise Publishing, Inc. • US DOI Bureau of Land Management • Eco-counter • Roscoe Bridge • Iowa State Snowmobile Association • Silos and Smokestacks National Heritage Area • USDA Forest Service • JAMAR Technologies, Inc. • Take Pride in America • Texas Trails Network Great Horned Owl ~ $5,000 • Loris and Associates, Inc. • Mississippi River Trail, Inc. sponsored by • Tread Lightly! • Iowa Department of Transportation • Trees Forever Eastin Outdoors, Inc. • Rhythm City Casino • United States Eventing Association • Pannier Graphics • United States Pony Clubs Great Blue Heron ~ $2,500 • Plastic Recycling of Iowa Falls, Inc. • Western Illinois University – Quad Cities • Aunt Rhodie’s Landscaping & Design • Stabilizer Solutions Studio • South Florida Water Management District Roadrunner ~ $300 • Ashton Engineering • CH2M HILL • TrafficGuard® Direct • U.S. TrailMaps, Inc. • Centro Restaurant in Davenport • Dura Grade by Milford Manufacturing • Corbin Design • Wickcraft Company, Inc. • Florida Office of Greenways and Trails • GCY, INC. Professional Surveyors & Mappers • Isle of Capri Hotel and Casino Red Tail Hawk ~ $500 • Huckleberry’s Italian Restaurant • Isabel Bloom • Maplelag Resort – Callaway, MN • Missman, Stanley & Associates, P.C. • Mountaineers Books • Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks • Nordic Group International • Professional Trailbuilders Association • NEW-LIFESTYLES, Inc. • Presto Products Company - Alcoa • Quad City Conservation Alliance • Stoney Creek Inn & Conference Center • Westcliffe Publishers • Shive-Hattery • StormSlide • Trails Unlimited USDA Forest Service Whippoorwill ~ $75 Kingfisher (Nonprofit rate) ~ $300-$600 • US Fish & Wildlife Service • Bob Searns & Sally Preston • Amateur Riders MotorCycle Association • Dana Bell • Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. • American Discovery Trail Society • Friends of the Hennepin Canal • American Hiking Society Pileated Woodpecker ~ $1,000-$1,200 • Iowa Association of County Conservation • Back Country Horsemen of America • AirTran Airways Boards/Iowa Trust for Local Conservation • Carroll Co. Economic Development Corp. • Blue Ribbon Coalition • Jeannene & Terry Whaley • Cedar Rapids Area Convention & Visitors • Pam & Jeff Gluck • City of Bettendorf Bureau • Roger Bell • City of Moline • Central Iowa Bicycle-Pedestrian Roundtable • City of Rock Island • City of Cedar Falls Tourism & Visitors Bureau Golden Cheeked Warbler ~ $25 • Cross Alert Systems • Dickinson County Trails Board • Mississippi River Ramblers Volkssport Club www.AmericanTrails.org 25 •Signs •Decals •Kiosks •Sign SSIGNSI G N S ANDA N D MARKERSM A R K E R S “Products that Identify” #03-420 DOUBLE-SIDED MESSAGE CENTER KIOSKS
• All square tube steel construction • 6” x 6” uprights with slotted steel sign mounts • Brown Powder Coat for durability and longevity • Green steel simulated shingle roof • Easy assembly with tamper-resistant fasteners • Interchangeable replacement parts • Accepts 48” x 48” sign panels (sold separately) • Available in 5 different confi gurations • Also available without roofs Call for pricing.
Sign not included. See Kiosk Sign Panels below.
#03-440 #03-450
Slotted steel sign mounts 48” x 48” PLASTIC allow for sign expansion and contraction due to KIOSK SIGN PANELS #03-460 temperature changes.
ALSO AVAILABLE WITHOUT ROOFS.
#03-470 FREE BROCHURE BOX When you order any Message Center Kiosk. One per customer. BROCHURE BOX Offer expires 4/1/2007. • Attaches to Kiosk post with tamper-resistant drive-rivets (included) • Oversized, slanted lid keeps literature safe from the elements • 12”H x 5”W x 5”D
Drive-rivets install easily with a hammer • Tamper-resistant • Available in MANY different confi gurations: shown #03-550 Call for pricing. is #03-607 with routed plastic header and footer, side rails and Lexan® protective cover. Call for pricing. • 877-718-7446 • www.rockartsigns.com © 2006-2007 Rockart, Inc. Signs and Markers Pedestals •Brochure Boxes •Registration Boxes •and MORE!
ALL-STEEL SIGN PEDESTAL REGISTRATION BOX #03-530 #03-540 Our durable steel Registration Box not only holds sign-in books and brochures, but the generous 15”W x 13”H lid is ideal for an informative sign. (Sign sold separately.)
• 3/16” thick steel • 18˚ slope for ease of reading • Durable powder coat • 38” from top to ground • Signs can be larger, or • 1/8” thick steel • Durable powder coat Below ground, welded smaller, than pedestal top Rebar anchors secure • Heavy-duty hinged lid • 42” from top to ground • Signs sold separately the Sign Pedestal. Call for pricing. Call for pricing.
ALUMINUM & SIGNS MARKER POSTS POLYFLEX TIC SIGNS PUTER CUT OR SCREEN PRINTED ROUTED PLAS WE OFFER A FULL LINE OF COM MARKER POSTS AND ANCHORS 9 • Fiberglass Reinforced 1
Year, h OFF e cratc at Sit ss, S rival te Pa of Ar alida Time Polyester (FRP) To V and y, h, Da Mont
1 • Multiple colors, shapes MA and lengths • Mark trails, property lots & even rural addresses for • Many color emergency vehicles ROADROAD combinations CLOSEDCLOSED SLOW • Maintenance free
10-267-12
• 100% waterproof ® DECALS ROCKART • Critter resistant • Ideal for any climate • Logos • Warning TRAFFIC CONTR • Informational OL • Refl ective or non-refl ective ALL STEEL • Many different sizes ARCH SIGN FRAMES • One to multiple colors
10-115 ROCKART®
PlayPlay SSafeafe ! SCHOOLSCHOOL - AAGEGE THISTHIS PLAYPLAY SSTRUCTURETRUCTURE HASHAS BEENBEEN DESIGNEDDESIGNED FORFOR SCHOOLSCHOOL AGEAGE PLAYERS,PLAYERS, 5 TOTO 1122 YEARSYEARS OOLD,LD, ACTIVEACTIVE ADULTADULT SUPERVISIONSUPERVISION ISIS ROCKART® 10-163 RECOMMENDEDRECOMMENDED DDURINGURING PLAY.PLAY.
YAKUTAT PARKS & RECREATION SSIGNSI G N S ANDA N D MARKERSM A R K E R S • 877-718-7446 • www.rockartsigns.com JoinJoin AmericanAmerican TrailsTrails A new opportunity!
e have a new opportunity to the $100 Supporter level and above name with a Whighlight our members’ will not only get their regular mem- direct link businesses through the American ber benefits, but they’ll also be to their Trails website at showcased on the first page of the website will www.AmericanTrails.org! Products and Services webpage be placed on with a short description of their the second Up until now, we have given busi- company, contact information and a page of the Products and Services nesses a direct link from our direct link from our website to webpage. Products and Services page at no theirs’ for an entire year! We can Contact Candace at the American cost. We want to recognize our include your logo if you join at the Trails office at (530) 547-2060 or members even more. $250 Patron level. [email protected] for In order to do so, those members at For nonmembers, only the company more information. Join American Trails and help develop and protect trails! Save time— join or renew online! Visit our website at www.AmericanTrails.org. This is a _____ New _____ Renewing Membership or Subscription. ____ Associate (Individual) $25 or more Receive American Trails Magazine for 1 year, and discount on National Trails Symposium registration. ____ Subscription (Agency/Library) $35 Receive American Trails Magazine for 1 year. ____ Affiliate Organization (Nonprofit/Volunteer Groups) $50 or more Receive American Trails Magazine and Action Alerts for 1 year, discount on National Trails Symposium registration for 1 person, and name listing in American Trails Magazine and on the American Trails website. ____ Supporter (Business, Organization,Agency, or Individual) $100 - $249 Receive 3 copies of American Trails Magazine for 1 year, discount on National Trails Symposium registrations for 3 people, and organization name listing in American Trails Magazine and on the American Trails website. ____ Patron (Business, Organization,Agency, or Individual) $250 or more All board members and CEO receive copies of American Trails Magazine for 1 year, and discounts on National Trails Symposium registrations. Organization is profiled in one issue and name is listed in every American Trails Magazine and on the American Trails website. ____ Additional Donation for American Trails programs $______THANK YOU! ____ Additional Donation for National Recreation Trails program $______THANK YOU! Please make check payable to AMERICAN TRAILS, and mail to: P.O. Box 491797, Redding, CA 96049-1797 Phone (530) 547-2060. Form may also be faxed if paying by credit card to (530) 547-2035. If paying by credit card: ____Visa ____Master Card Card#______Exp.______Name on Card______Signature______Date______Contact name ______Organization______Address______City______State____ Zip______Phone______Fax______Email______Website______If this is a Patron or Supporter membership, please attach names & addresses of additional newsletter recipients.Thanks! American Trails does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, or ability.
28 NEW YEARS 2007 American Trails American Trails Member Groups
• Indiana Trail Riders Association, Inc. • Pam Gluck PATRON MEMBERS • International Mountain Bicycling Assn. • Great Rivers Greenway Americans for Responsible • Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation • Greater Hazleton Area Civic • JAMAR Technologies, Inc. Partnership, PA Recreational Access • Johnson County Park & Rec. District, • Hansville Greenway Association,WA Daniel Belknap KS • Haywood Greenway Advisory Council Beneficial Designs, Inc. • Lan-Oak Park District, IL • Houston Wilderness City of Redding Community • Lehman & Lehman, Inc., IN • Hudson River Valley Greenway Services • Longleaf Trace, MS • Imagine Grinnell • Loris and Associates, Inc. • In Memory of Charles Moore Christopher B. Douwes • Los Alamos Co. Parks Division, NM • Indiana Horse Council, Inc. EZ Dock / Team REIL,Inc. • Manatee County Conservation Lands • Iowa State Snowmobile Association Jefferson County Open Space Mgmt., FL • Iowa Trails Council John Deere & Company • Methow Valley Sport Trails Assn.,WA • Jackson Hole Community Pathways,WY Montana Fish,Wildlife & Parks • MN Recreational Trail Users Assn. • LA Trails Project • National Park Service/RTCA • Lubbock Lake Landmark,TX Moosman Bridge • Naturtec:Trail & Bridge Technologies • Memorial Hospital Logansport, IN Motorcycle Industry Council • NOHVIS Group • Miami and Erie Canal Corridor Assn., Mt. Shasta Products • Osceola Co. Parks & Recreation, FL OH Professional Trailbuilders Assn. • Papio-Missouri River Natural • Miami Conservancy District Quad Cities Convention & Resources, NE • National Association of Service and • S.W. Leader, Inc. Conservation Corps Visitors Bureau • Sapphos Environmental, Inc. • National Smokejumper Association Rails-to-Trails Conservancy • Steadfast Bridge Company • Nebraska Off Highway Vehicle Rhino Marketing & Protection • Texas Trails Network Association Systems • The Unturned Stone, Inc. • New England Trail Rider Assn. • Town of Menasha • New Mexico Rails-to-Trails San Mateo County Parks & • TrafficGuard • North American Trail Ride Conference Recreation • Trail Facts - A Service of Interactive • North Country Trail Association Specialty Vehicle Institute of Marketing Solutions • Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning America • Van Dyke Landscape Architects Commission (NIRPC) T.E.A.M.S USDA Forest • Wisconsin State Horse Council/Trails • Northwestern Ohio Rails-to-Trails Assn. Committee • Ozark Greenways, MO Service • PA Recreation & Park Society The McConnell Foundation AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS • Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Trails.com, Inc. • Aboite New Trails Conservancy Trails Unlimited • Adventure Cycling Association • Parks & Trails Council of MN • Pinetop-Lakeside TRACKS,AZ Voss Signs LLC • Agony of De-Feet, CA • Alabama Hiking Trail Society • Polk County Conservation Board, IA SUPPORTERS • American Canoe Association • Quad-City Labyrinth Project, IA & IL • American Discovery Trail Society • Rahall Transportation Institute,WV • Alta Planning + Design • American Motorcyclist Association • Recreational Trails, Inc. • American Discovery Trail Society • Appalachian Trail Conservancy • Redmond Trails Commission,WA • Anasazi Trails, Inc. • Arizona Trail Association • River Action • Arrowhead Trails, Inc., CO • Artists of Note Inc. • Sand Creek Reg. Greenway Partnership, • Art Thureson, Inc • Dana Bell CO • Austin Parks Foundation • Bike FLorida • Save Burney Falls, CA • Back Country Horsemen of America • Blue Ribbon Coalition • Sterling Park District, IL • BORRELLI + PARTNERS, INC. • CA Trails & Greenways Foundation • Tahoe Rim Trail Association, NV • City of Aspen, CO • California Travel Parks Association • The Power of Prevention • City of Grand Forks, ND - Greenway • Cardinal Greenways, IN • Tionesta Valley Snowmobile Club of PA • City of Pella, IA - Parks & Recreation • Cerro Gordo Trails, Inc., IA • Town of Collingwood, Ontario • City of Prescott,AZ • Champaign Park District, IL • Trail Mix, Inc.,Alaska • Dallas County Conservation Board • City of Eugene, OR Parks & Open Space • Trails & Open Space Coalition, CO • DE State Parks-DNREC • City of Grants Pass, OR • Trails 4 All, CA • Donald A. Neptune,A.I.A. • Continental Divide Trail Alliance • Trails for the Future, Inc. • Eastin Outdoors, Inc. and City of Little • Contrax Enterprise • Tri-Cities Visitor & Convention Bureau, Rock • Dillon Nature Center, KS WA • Eco-counter • Kevin Dwyer • VA Dept. of Conservation & Recreation • Equestrian Land Conservation • Eastern Trail Management District • Vermont Association of Snow Travelers, Resource • Equestrian Trails, Inc. Inc. • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation • Fallbrook Land Conservancy • Walk & Bike for Life, Ontario Commission • Forest Preserve District of DuPage • Wheeler Lumber, LLC • Garfield County Trails, UT County, IL • Whiterock Conservancy • The GreenWay Team,Inc. • Friends of the Katy Trail,TX • Wildwood Development Company • Hulet Hornbeck • Friends of the Riverfront, PA • Yavapai Trails Association Arkansas’“Medical Mile”
Little Rock’s innovative walkway for health hailed by national trails leaders
By Terry Eastin n December 2003 two dozen physicians with the state’s Ilargest cardiology clinic agreed unanimously to support completion of the Arkansas River Trail. This was a ground- breaking move to increase awareness and make a real impact on the prevention of obesity and heart disease in Arkansas: a “medical mile” of trail in the heart of downtown Little Rock. Supported by major hospitals, coalitions, the Arkansas Department of Health, and numerous individual physicians and medical practices, the fundraising program exceeded the $350,000 goal in the first three months of the campaign. By the end of two years, the project had raised $2.1 million. The inspiration was born of a collaboration between the National Park Service Rivers Trails and Wisteria pergola on the Medical Mile Conservation Assistance “Our participation in Program, Heart Clinic this project is a way of Body-Mind-Spirit entry plaza that encourages trail users to Arkansas, and Little Rock saying ‘Thank you’ and remember that a healthy mind and spirit are the key steps Parks and Recreation, and toward a healthy body. became the focal point for represents an effort to The project theme, developed by the Arkansas Department a unique health and trails give back to the commu- of Health, a project partner, focused on an “Exercise + partnership that created Smoking Cessation + Better Nutrition” formula that signals a the nation’s first outdoor nity by offering our citi- 70% reduction in chronic disease. By using varying spatial linear health museum. zens a safe and accessible and interpretive perspectives, each of the three key features The “Medical Mile” has place to exercise and by provided something unique and inspiring for trail users. become an artistic expres- encouraging a more The Medical Mile winds along the river through the most sion of health designed to prominent commercial and recreational district in Arkansas. inspire, delight, and moti- healthy lifestyle.” Riverfront Park, the location of the Medical Mile is the hub vate people to make well- – Dr. Eleanor Kennedy, of the central district. The park is adjacent to the Clinton ness-oriented lifestyle Heart Clinic Arkansas Presidential Library and numerous other venues like the changes. Arkansas Statehouse Convention Center. Over two million It includes a 1,300 foot three-dimensional mural wall, a wellness promenade with artful displays, as well as a
The Peace Plaza
30 NEW YEARS 2007 American Trails The Medical Mile continued
people from around the world visit the area each year. The Medical Mile gives a positive impression of a city dedicated to the health and wellness of its citizens. The Medical Mile can be experienced from either direction, on foot, roller blades or wheels. Created to encourage fitness in people of every ability, young and old and in-between, the trail is a resounding statement about the need to focus national attention on preventable chronic disease through lifestyle changes. The Medical Mile is only one dazzling piece of the Arkansas River Trail. Making a 14-mile loop with an additional 10-mile extension to Pinnacle Mountain State Park, the trail will eventually connect with the 225-mile Ouachita Wilderness trail. Over 24 key tourism destinations, including over 5,000 acres of federal, state, and local parkland will be connected by the trail. Developers use the trail’s proximity to sell high-rise condominiums, housing, and commercial developments. From the per- spective of the City of Little Rock, the trail is an economic, health, and environmental conservation stimulator. And... it’s good public health! For more information on the Medical Mile project visit www.AmericanTrails.org. Go to the “Quick Jump” menu and select “Health & Trails,” then see the “Community” section.
“The Medical Mile ought to be an example for the future, because it’s good for all of us.” – Richard Davies, Executive Director, Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism Terry Eastin The Medical Mile continued
through to all aspects of the project, and I was honored to Art and health on Little Rock’s contribute logo design, sheet metal “decorations,” coordinat- ing interpretive panel stands, light fixture designs, tile “Medical Mile” greenway accents, and even landscape design consultation. I designed By Debra Moseley-Lord,Artist, Medical Mile Project the entire “monument” for our primary fundraiser, Heart Clinic Arkansas, in native stone, sheet metals, and a wonder- HEN I WAS ASKED TO DESIGN THE ART for a ful light fixture that serves as a beacon for all evening trail W1,300-foot wall along a section of the Arkansas River visitors. Trail that was to be part of the Medical Mile project, I knew This cohesiveness is what made the Medical Mile project my years of experience producing public art in Arkansas rewarding for me... that, and a wonderful working relation- would serve me well. ship with our project coordinator, Terry Eastin. Good design It goes without saying that public art pieces have to with- aside, the caring human will is what drives projects like this; stand the worst physical forces, and I immediately chose to the desire to produce something greater than yourself and use sheet metals, mosaic tiles, and phenolic something for all of us. resin panels to capture the designs. Simple It’s not a perfect project, by any means. and few, but visually compelling: this There are things I’d definitely do differently, always works for my aesthetic senses, and but I expect that’s the way with any com- all things are possible, I believe, as long as plex projects. Do and Learn. And let Art be you don’t venture away from one guiding one of those forces that lead you further principle... and that is: good, strong, and down the trail. cohesive design. For more information on the Medical I was also asked to collaborate with city Mile and other trails and greenways parks planners on designs for the other large projects that include art and artists, installations on the Medical Mile. visit www.AmericanTrails.org. Click I was really happy and relieved to see the on “Resources & Library” and look understanding by all involved here, that a in the “Trail Spotlight” section for unified design concept needs to follow Debra Moseley-Lord “Art & Trails.”
See more resources at www.AmericanTrails.org Your online source for trails and greenways ideas and information
32 NEW YEARS 2007 American Trails
Surfaces for accessible trails?
From USDA Forest Service Accessibility Guidebook on Outdoor Recreation and Trails
By Janet Zeller, USFS Accessibility Program Manager HE SURFACE OF AN Outdoor Recreation Accessibility TRoute and the surface surrounding constructed features must be firm and stable. No exceptions are allowed. Slip resistance is not required because leaves and needles, dirt, ice, snow, and other surface debris and weather conditions are components of the natural environment that would be difficult, if not impossible, to avoid. Paving the Wilderness? Does a firm and stable surface always mean concrete and asphalt? No! The surface provision states that the type of surface material used should be appropriate to the setting and Crushed rock can provide a firm and stable surface level of development. Some natural soils can be compacted so they are firm and stable. Other soils can be treated with • Crushed rock (rather than uncrushed gravel) stabilizers without drastically changing their appearance. • Rock with broken faces (rather than rounded rocks) Many surfaces that appear natural and that meet the firm and • A rock mixture containing a full spectrum of sieve sizes stable requirements also are available on the market. (rather than a single size) Designers are encouraged to investigate these options and • Hard rock (rather than soft rock that breaks down easily) use surfacing materials that are consistent with the site’s level of development and that require as little maintenance as • Rock that passes through a 1⁄2-inch (13-millimeter) screen possible. • Rock material that has been compacted into 3- to 4-inch (75- to 100-millimeter) thick layers (not thicker layers) What is Firm and Stable? • Material that is moist, but not too wet, before it is compact- What sort of surface is firm and stable? In general, if the ed (rather than material that is compacted when it is dry) answer to both of the following questions is yes, the surface • Material that is compacted with a vibrating plate com- is probably firm and stable: pactor, roller, or by hand tamping (rather than material that • Could a person ride a narrow-tired bicycle across the sur- is laid loose and compacted by use) face easily without making ruts? The Forest Service Accessibility Guidebook on Outdoor • Could a folding stroller with small, narrow plastic wheels Recreation and Trails will help users integrate accessibility containing a three-year-old be pushed easily across the sur- into planning, design, construction, and maintenance of out- face without making ruts? door recreation facilities and trails while maintaining the nat- Firm and stable surfaces prevent assistive devices from sink- ural setting. It provides detailed information about accessi- ing into the surface, which would make movement difficult bility requirements in an easy-to-use format, with photos, for a person using crutches, a cane, a wheelchair, or other illustrations, and design tips, hotlinks, and sidebars. This assistive device. In the accessibility guidelines, the standard guidebook will also help Forest Service personnel, partners, assistive device is the wheelchair because its dimensions, contractors, and Federal and State agencies working in coop- multiple moving surface contact points, and four wheels eration with the Forest Service understand how to apply the often are difficult to accommodate. If a person using a Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Accessibility Guidelines wheelchair can use an area, most other people also can use and Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines. that area. See www.AmericanTrails.org for more information Construction Tips on Surfacing Materials on Accessible Trails, including links to the new Forest Generally, the following materials provide firmer surfaces Service Accessibility Guidebook and many other that are more stable: articles and resources.
34 NEW YEARS 2007 American Trails NEW FROM The Scanner JAMAR Accurately record pedestrians, bicyclists & more!
Passive Infrared Data Collector
FREE FREE Non-Invasive Data Retrieval Installation Kit Software
The Scanner is an infrared data recorder that has been specifi cally designed to • Count Pedestrains & Bicyclists count pedestrians and/or bicyclists in a variety of places, such as trails, outdoor • Time-Stamped Data Recording walkways, sidewalks and commercial areas. This unit will register at distances up • Wireless data download to 35 feet and does not require a refl ector or other external unit. • Free interface software • GPS compatible format Total volume can be recorded, as can individual time stamps of every recording. Data can be easily read off the unit’s display, or retrieved using wireless Bluetooth • Record up to 35 feet away download to free software designed for a PDA. Also equipped with GPS compat- • No external refl ector required ibility, this device represents a new generation of passive infrared data recorders. • Ideal for Trails/Walkways
800-776-0940 www.jamartech.com JAMAR [email protected] Technologies, Inc.
The Data Collection Specialists for More Than 30 Years
www.AmericanTrails.org New at www.American Trails.org New look, same great resource. Visit www.AmericanTrails.org to see our new look and improved navigation to help you find what you’re looking for. We’re the largest online resource for trail advocates, planners, builders, and managers with hundreds of articles, studies, and resources, and thousands of links to the worldwide trails community.
• Improving our trail systems Trail Tracks Forum: sharing • Learning from our history • New activities uses for trails your opinions and ideas • Spiritual dimensions of trails HAT’S YOUR OPINION? We welcome your ideas, You can access the new Opinions Forum from the Weditorials, and your vision of the future of trails and American Trails home page: www.AmericanTrails.org. greenways. Look for a variety of viewpoints in the “Trail Use the “Quick Jump” menu or click on the “Resources” Tracks” forum, and submit your opinion for possible use on icon and select “Opinions” under “Trails Spotlight.” Send the website or publication in American Trails Magazine. your editorials and opinion pieces to us by email at The forum is your opportunity to offer your ideas and opin- [email protected]. ions to the larger trails community. Good material in any form is archived on the Trail Tracks opinion forum index Symposium presentations will page. Short editorials or longer articles may be used in American Trails Magazine, published three times a year. You be available on our website retain all other rights to your material. We hope to see your creative ideas— these are just some E WILL BE POSTING all the presentation materials suggestions to get you thinking: W(PowerPoints, documents, etc.) on our website within the next month. Check www.AmericanTrails.org for more • The future of trails and greenways information as it becomes available. If you have presentation • Ideas and new concepts materials to share, please mail to: American Trails, P.O. Box • New ways to apply technology to trails 491797, Redding, CA 96049. You can also view all of the • Personal experiences presenters’ bios and get their contact information at • More effective advocacy www.AmericanTrails.org/quad/bios.html. • The value and benefits of trails
www.AmericanTrails.org 37 Trail Tracks Editorial Why do people leave the trail?
How can we foster a stronger appreciation and respect for Tread Lightly! and NOHVCC our natural resources? We are all responsible for getting the message out that it is not okay to go off trail regardless of are doing something about it your activity. I would like to highlight two good programs By Karen Umphress,American Trails Board that the motorized recreation community has created to help HY DO PEOPLE LEAVE THE TRAIL? While my educate the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts. Whusband and I were hiking in Mt. Rainier National The first one is the Adventure Trail program created by the Park, the Paradise Trail was almost irritating with the num- National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council. The ber of signs along its edge. They were spaced about five feet program includes an Activity Book and an interactive CD apart and alternated between “Stay on the trail” and “Don’t which introduce young riders to Penny, Rascal, and AT. be a meadow stomper.” These characters and activities teach children about trail ethics as well as safety. The reason for the signs on the trail was explained by a The program includes a traveling truck or trailer that allows large sign at the trailhead. children to go through the Adventure Trail and take a short This sign stated that there quiz at the end. Correct answers are rewarded and incorrect were 20 miles of legitimate answers are gently corrected. See www.nohvcc.org for more trail and an additional 28 information about this program. miles of trail that was created Tread Lightly! also has a traveling trailer that takes environ- by people walking off-trail. mental education on the road. It travels to major motorized During the same trip, we sporting events and trailheads to spread their message. The spent some time at Mt. St. focus for the trailer is to be an education center. In addition Helens. to the educational material, the trailer also has local informa- tion such as trail maps and After many programs and weather information. signs that told people how In addition to the trailer, Tread fragile the area was, we went Lightly! has a web section to a trailhead and watched designed just for kids called parents letting their children Kid’s Club. Their squirrel run around in the meadow, mascot, Lightfoot, educates picking the wildflowers. Then, kids with fun activities and while hiking to Half Dome in tips on playing responsibly Yosemite National Park, the outdoors and reducing their people ahead of us continued impact on nature. Please see to cut across the switch backs even though they did not gain any distance from us. their website at There are many different reasons people leave the trail. www.treadlightly.org. Some of the blame can be placed on the trail design. If we I’m sure there are some do not give people the experience they are looking for, they national non-motorized will create it. If we put a trail close enough to a waterfall that recreational organizations hikers can hear it, but not close enough to see it, they will which also have similar pro- find a way to it. If we create a mountain bike trail that is grams. We would like to mostly flat and the bikers are expecting elevation changes, know more about them as they will ride off trail to find more fun. If we build an ATV well. In the end, it is up to trail that is wide open and boring, riders will create a chal- all of us to get the message lenge for themselves. It is part of human nature and is not across: “Everyone— stay on dependent upon the type of recreation chosen. the trails!”
38 NEW YEARS 2007 American Trails
NON-PROFIT t e a ORGANIZATION lin U.S. POSTAGE PAID on ails JEFFERSON CITY, Tr .org ican ails MO er nTr PERMIT NO. 210 Am rica Join me w.A ww
P.O. Box 491797 Redding CA 96049-1797