Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway Brightwood Neighborhood Assessment CONTENTS

I. Executive Summary 3

II. River Walk and Study Area Description 8

III. Current Condition 12 Plan and Document Review 12 Social Conditions 14 Community Facilities and Resources 18 Physical Conditions and Recommendations 20

.IV Recommendations and Community Engagement 22 Infrastructure and Amenities 22 Connections and Access 24 Safety Considerations 25 Education and Programming 26

V. Conclusion 27

Technical Appendix 28

Works Cited 41 Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway Brightwood Neighborhood Assessment

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Project Team: Carl Knoch Kelly Pack

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This community assessment was made possible by a generous grant from The Kresge Foundation to support Rails-to-Trails Conservancy’s (RTC) Urban Pathways Initiative. RTC and our many local partners extend our gratitude to The Kresge Foundation for their support and shared vision to create healthier communities by connecting people and places with urban pathways.

We would also like to acknowledge our partners in Springfield, without which the success of the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway could never have been realized:

Partners for a Healthier Community City of Springfield Planning and Economic Development City of Springfield Parks and Recreation Pioneer Valley Planning Commission North End Citizens Coalition Baystate Health Finally, the team would like to acknowledge the contributions of RTC staff to the design and production of this report: Barbara Richey, graphic designer; Karl Wirsing, editor; and Tim Rosner, GIS specialist. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

2 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

INTRODUCTION

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) began its Urban Pathways Initiative on the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway in Springfield, Mass. in the spring of 2009. Prior to that time, RTC had been engaged in Springfield with the “Springfield Walks” initiative, which dates back to 2006. With support from The Kresge Foundation, RTC began a multi-year effort in Springfield to provide community-based assistance to groups and municipal agencies working to promote or develop pathways intersecting low-income communities. This report provides findings and recommendations based on an in-depth analysis of the Brightwood neighborhood, which borders the northernmost mile of the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway.

• River Walk and Study Area Description — Overview of the context and challenges surrounding use of the entire 3.7-mile pathway;

• Current Conditions — A description of existing physical and social conditions in Springfield and the Brightwood neighborhood, along with photographs depicting various physical conditions. This analysis covers both important demographic and social factors and identifies significant landscape barriers that limit access to River Walk and Bikeway;

• Recommendations and Community Engagement — Suggestions for increasing awareness of the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway, and actions taken to engage the residents of Bright- wood, the nearby medical community, the Springfield Parks Department and the city of Springfield’s municipal leaders.

This report is the culmination of more than two years of active engagement by RTC to convert a neglected and infrequently used pathway into a community asset that serves as a source of community pride. Through the efforts of many local organizations, the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway is well on the way to achieving that goal.

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

THE CORRIDOR

The Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway is a 3.7-mile, asphalt, multi-use trail that runs along the banks of the Connecticut River from just south of Springfield’s Basketball Hall of Fame to Wason Avenue at the northern end of the Brightwood neighborhood. At its southern end, the River Walk is cut off from adjacent residential neighborhoods by Interstate 91 and an active rail corridor. The only access is via a “skywalk”— located behind the LA Fitness facility — that crosses the railroad corridor. A steep stairway climbs around an elevator tower on the eastern side of the rail line. The elevator has been out of service for a number of years and recent efforts to find the required parts to repair it have been unsuccessful. From the bridge, a switchback ramp extends down to the trail. The River Walk can also be accessed at Riverfront Park via an unprotected, at-grade crossing of the rail corridor at State Street.

West Street at the North End Bridge and the southern edge of the Brightwood neighborhood is the next access point. Here, the neighborhood is cut off from the River Walk by a 10-foot-high flood-control wall. For more than a mile along this stretch, there are only three access points to get on or off the trail.

Through the efforts of local citizen advocates and the work of RTC’s Urban Pathways Initiative, the city of Springfield has taken a more proactive position on the promotion and maintenance of the River Walk. Involvement by the North End Citizens Coalition and the highly successful Fun on the River Walk event held in May 2011 have resulted in a better appreciation of the River Walk by the residents of the Brightwood neighborhood.

4 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

COMMUNITY STUDY AREA

The Brightwood neighborhood between West Street and Wason Avenue provides the best oppor- tunity to improve community attitudes and utilization of the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway. A strong community organization, North End Campus Coalition, medical facilities and organizations associated with Baystate Health System, city of Springfield Parks and Planning departments, and Pioneer Valley Planning Commission came together to facilitate change along the entire length of the River Walk and highlight Brightwood as an example of what can be accomplished.

A physical assessment of walking and biking conditions within the Brightwood neighborhood was conducted to examine access to the River Walk and overall neighborhood walkability and bike- ability. The summary of the social conditions in this report presents data for U.S. Census Bureau block groups that are either completely within or intersect the defined study area.

TRAIL-HEALTH CONNECTION

During the past 20 years, obesity has become a significant health risk to millions of Americans. The number of deaths associated with obesity is second only to the number of deaths per year related to smoking. In 2004, the Centers for Disease Control announced that the obesity rate among the adult population swelled to 30 percent (about 60 million), a figure that has doubled since 1980. The health risks associated with obesity can be mitigated by creating environments that provide individuals with a place to engage in regular, safe physical activity. Research suggests that walking is a particularly important component to active living since it is the most accessible form of physical activity across socioeconomic groups and in areas that are urban or rural1. Related studies support the role of multi-use trails as enhancers of a community’s pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure and reinforce the notion that trails contribute to community health by providing accessible and safe walking and biking environments2. The Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway extends through economically distressed communities that are in need of safe, inexpensive recreational facilities to help promote healthy lifestyles and curb the significant trends of obesity-related disease among Springfield residents.

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 5 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

RECOMMENDATIONS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT WAYFINDING The Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway is • Placement of additional signage leading to the trail fully developed within Springfield, and the • Wider distribution of trail brochures recommendations and community engage- • Placement of informational maps and kiosks along the trail ment suggestions provide for ways to increase use and stewardship of the River Walk by the citizens of Brightwood and the downtown NEIGHBORHOOD STREET CROSSINGS sections of the trail • Reapply crosswalk markings on most Brightwood streets • Improve sidewalk along Wason Avenue at railroad crossing

CONNECTIONS AND ACCESS • Investigate additional access to the River Walk along Riverside Road • Install map exhibit at Riverside Road and West Avenue • Move forward with making connections to Chicopee and Agawam

SAFETY • Continue efforts to increase access from the Brightwood neighborhood • Control graffiti and illegal dumping • Encourage community events around the River Walk

EDUCATION AND PROGRAMMING • Schedule regular guided tours of the River Walk and Bikeway • Plan additional River Walk-centered community events

6 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

CONCLUSION

The process of converting the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway in Springfield from a neglected strip of asphalt into a city gem has made great strides in the two years that RTC has been engaged through its Urban Pathways Initiative. From a handful of community advocates, the initiative has grown significantly and engaged ever-larger segments of the community. The work began by bringing together representatives from the health community, and the region’s largest employer, the Springfield City Planning and Parks departments and Pioneer Valley Regional Planning to analyze the challenges and developing a plan to address them while engaging new areas of the community. Month after month, progress could be seen as more and more people came in contact with the River Walk and embraced its potential.

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 7 STUDY AREA DESCRIPTION

II. RIVER WALK AND STUDY AREA DESCRIPTION

The Urban Pathways Initiative in Springfield, Mass., focuses on the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway that stretches from the Springfield/Chicopee city boundary south to the vicinity of South End Bridge (U.S. Route 5). This asphalt trail is 3.7 miles in length.

For its entire length, the Connecticut River Walk and Bike Way is bounded on the west by the Connecticut River. Many views of the river are blocked by dense foliage during the summer months. Efforts are being made by the Springfield Department of Parks to clear some of the un- desirable foliage and small trees to open up views of the Connecticut River from the trail. Some efforts to clear foliage and trees have been hampered by the United States Army Corps of Engi- neers, which has flood control responsibility along the Connecticut River through Springfield.

At its southern end, the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway is confined and segregated from Amtrak line parallels the southern portion of the trail. direct access from city neighborhoods and businesses by an active Amtrak Rail Line and elevated Interstate 91. The trail currently dead-ends in a cul-de-sac. South of the cul-de-sac is an area of overgrown brush and trees stretching to underneath the South End Bridge. Local residents have created foot paths through the area and have crossed the active railroad line illegally to reach the River Walk.

Substantial residential neighborhoods exist at the south end of the trail, including Forest Park, East Forest Park, Old Hill, Upper Hill, McKnight and Bay. Unfortunately, none of these neighborhood residents can easily reach the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway. Interstate 91 and the active rail corridor effectively cut off any access to the trail. The closest access point is the “skywalk” over the rail corridor at the Basketball Hall of Fame and LA Fitness complex. A rail-trail feasibility study was initiated in the McKnight neighborhood during 2010. If this trail is developed, it may provide an important neighborhood link to the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway. Pedestrian walkway over the active railroad line. On the eastern side of the railroad corridor are a Hilton Garden Inn, several restaurants, the Basket ball Hall of Fame and an LA Fitness facility. The only access to the River Walk and Bikeway in this segment is via a pedestrian walkway located adjacent to the LA fitness facility. On the eastern side of the pedestrian walkway is a set of stairs and an elevator. The elevator has been “out of service” for several years. Efforts are currently under way to obtain the required parts and get the eleva-

8 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY STUDY AREA DESCRIPTION

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 9 STUDY AREA DESCRIPTION

tor operating again. On the western side of the pedestrian walkway, a series of ramps leads down to the level of the River Walk and Bikeway. So the bridge is still usable yet not ADA-accessible.

Moving north, the next place to access the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway is at River Front Park. The entrance to the park is at the western end of State Street at Columbus Avenue. Passing through a brick archway, there is an unprotected, at-grade crossing of the rail line.

A few dozen yards north of the pedestrian entrance to River Front Park, an underpass under the railroad line provides vehicular access to the park. This is used only by “official vehicles” such as Springfield Police Department and Parks Department personnel. There is no designated River Walk and Bikeway parking currently available at this location. Parking spots here have been reserved for workers in the downtown business district who pay a monthly fee.

Moving north from River Front Park, the next access point for the trail is Entrance to Riverfront Park. from Liberty Street at Clinton Street. For a distance of approximately .2 miles, the River Walk utilizes Clinton Street. Clinton is a dead-end street that provides vehicular access to several city of Springfield facilities. Lib- erty Street passes under Interstate 91 and across an at-grade crossing of a railroad spur. The nearest residential neighborhood to this access point is six blocks to the east. As defined by the city of Springfield, Clin- ton Street marks the southern boundary of Brightwood neighborhood.

Heading north into Brightwood, the next point for public access to the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway is at West Street and Riverside Road. West Street leads to the North End Bridge across the Connecticut River. There is on-street parking here along Riverside Road. In late De- cember 2010, Robert L. Bolduc, president of Pride Stations and Stores, announced that he will donate a new access way to the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway from land behind the Pride gas station and store on West Street near the North End Bridge. Along with the access, this location will provide ample parking in its paved lot, use of the public restrooms in the store and will create a clean, level strip of land

10 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY STUDY AREA DESCRIPTION

with picnic tables and bike racks. Residents and city officials who have been lamenting the under-utilization of the bikeway and problems with access praised the offer. West Street marks the southern boundary of the residential portion of the Brightwood neighborhood, which will be the primary focus of our community outreach efforts in conjunction with the Urban Pathways Initiative in Springfield.

The Brightwood neighborhood is bounded by West Street on the south and the Chicopee/Springfield town line on the north. To the east, the neighborhood is constrained by an active rail corridor and Interstate 91. On the west from West Avenue to Wason Avenue, a flood-control retaining wall runs along the entire length of Riverside Road. From approximately Lowell Street to Laurel Street, the retaining wall is 10 feet high. The Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway is located on ground at the top of this wall. It is conceivable that some residents living in the Brightwood neighborhood are not even aware that the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway exists on the top of the wall. A sidewalk runs Welcome to Brightwood Neighborhood. the entire length of Riverside Road at the base of the flood-control retaining wall, and without easy access to the bikeway, residents may not know of the trail just above them.

This neighborhood was selected for the primary focus of the Urban Pathways Initiative in Springfield for several factors. First, it is the only residential neighborhood that has direct access to the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway without having to deal with crossing an active railroad corridor or getting over or under Interstate 91. Second, the neighborhood effectively has access points to the trail at Clinton Street, West Street, Monroe Street and Wason Avenue. Third, Brightwood was also selected because it reports high rates of poverty. Key factors sup- porting physical activity in low-income urban communities are safety from traffic, perceived safety from crime and provision of parks and recreation facilities — all of which can be addressed through trail promotion and use.

River Walk and Bikeway through Brightwood neighborhood.

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 11 CURRENT CONDITIONS

III. CURRENT CONDITIONS

This section of the assessment provides a Plan and Document Review, illustrating the role of the River Walk within the context of city and regional planning. A summary of statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau demonstrates the social characteristics and conditions in Springfield and more specifically Brightwood, the closest neighborhood to the River Walk and one that is challenged by high rates of poverty. An assessment of physical conditions in the Brightwood neighborhood illustrates the barriers and facilitating factors to walking, biking and trail access. This evaluation can provide a deeper understanding of the opportunities and constraints to using the River Walk for physical activity, whether for recreation or transportation.

PLAN AND DOCUMENT REVIEW

Plans for the city and the region can have an important influence on the River Walk and nearby neighborhoods. This section provides a summary of pertinent planning documents to highlight envisioned changes to the River Walk and surrounding communities.

SPRINGFIELD RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY SURVEY FINAL REPORT FOR THE CITY OF SPRINGFIELD Description: The purpose of this survey is to assess the current volume of users on the Springfield River Walk and Bikeway and ways to improve their experience along this facility. The survey also identifies potential users of the River Walk and why they may not use the bike path. Information gathered as part of this survey will also assist in the development of recommendations to improve the River Walk, increase the use of the bike path and assist in planning efforts of proposed links to the River Walk.

Completion Date: December 2005 Relationship to Study Area: Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway Contact Information: Pioneer Valley Planning Commission www.pvpc.org/resources/transport/ctwalk_fin_web.pdf

12 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY CURRENT CONDITIONS

PIONEER VALLEY UNIFIED Completion Date: September 2006 PLANNING WORK PROGRAM Relationship to Study Area: Provides recommendations for sustaining Springfield neighborhoods. Description: Plan of work for FY 2008 for Contact Information: Urban Land Institute the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway, http://boston.uli.org/Community%20Building/~/media/DC/Boston/ including coordination of the comple- TAPs/SPRINGFIELD_FINAL_REPORT%20pdf.ashx tion of engineering and construction of the five remaining segments of the Con- necticut River Walk network. This would 2007 UPDATE TO REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION PLAN — connect the existing Springfield segment CHAPTER 3 SECTION E, NON-MOTORIZED to other communities up and down the TRANSPORTATION riverfront. Description: This report from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Completion Date: August 2007 (PVPC) updates the Regional Transportation Plan originally published Relationship to Study Area: Work plan for FY 2008 for Connecticut River in 2003. The plan outlines the direction of transportation planning and Walk and Bikeway improvements for the Pioneer Valley through the year 2030. Contact Information: Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Relationship to the Study Area: To get more people walking and bik- www.pvpc.org/resources/transport/09%20report/upwp_aug_09.pdf ing, PVPC has developed a strategic plan of policy-related actions and physical projects on which municipal and regional officials and citizens SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS — STRATEGIES FOR A can collaborate to improve conditions for pedestrians and bicyclists in SUSTAINABLE CITY the Pioneer Valley.

Description: The report from the Urban Contact: Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Land Institute makes recommendations www.pvpc.org/resources/transport/07_report/chapts_1to3.pdf on improvements to critical issues that Springfield is facing. In general, the recommendations include:

• Make downtown the urban center of the Pioneer Valley a great place to live, work and play.

• Embrace diversity throughout the city.

• Conserve Springfield’s neighborhoods.

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 13 CURRENT CONDITIONS

SOCIAL CONDITIONS Springfield Demographics

The Community Study Area is the Brightwood Category 2000 U.S. Census Recent estimate* neighborhood of Springfield, Mass. The Population 152,082 153,170 neighborhood is bounded by the Chicopee/ Springfield town line on the north, an active Median Age 32.6 32.5 railroad corridor on the east, Clinton Street Total Number of Households 57,178 62,946 on the south and the Connecticut River on Average Household Size 2.57 2.61 the west. Median Household Income $30,417 $34,113

Age

19 or younger 32.4% N/A

20 to 64 55.2% N/A

65 and older 12.4% N/A

Gender

Male 47.21% N/A

Female 52.79% N/A

Race

White 56.11% 51.6%

Black 21.01% 21.6%

Asian 1.92% 2.00%

Hispanic (any race) 27.18% 34.5%

Persons over 25 with HS diploma or higher 73% 60.42%

Persons over 25 with Bachelor’s Degree of Higher 15% 17.1%

Population living below the poverty line 23.1% 23.3%

* U.S. Census Bureau, 2005–2009 American Community Survey

14 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY CURRENT CONDITIONS

In 2000, the most recent year with U.S. Cen- Commuting Statistics sus data available, the population of Bright- wood was 3,936 — a decrease of 4.3 percent Public Transportation 4.0% from 1990 Census data. A 2008 population Drive or Carpool 87.6% estimate for the neighborhood was 3,934, indicating that the population’s downward Walk 6.1% slide in the neighborhood has abated. The Bike or Motorcycle 0.0% U.S. Department of Health and Human Other Means 0.7% Service’s Office on Minority Health reported in 2007 that Latinos were 1.1 times more Work from Home 1.6% likely to be obese than non-Hispanic whites. The Centers for Disease Control has reported Latinos as the minority group with the Crime Statistics, 2008 (per 100,000) second-highest obesity prevalence in adults. Providing trail programs and encouragement Springfield Massachusetts strategies could offer more opportunities for Murders 9.3 2.6 physical activity and help stem the rising tide Rapes 77.4 26.7 of obesity in this population group. Robberies 374.9 108.8 Brightwood is predominately a Hispanic Assaults 793.4 294.7 neighborhood with 85 percent of the population claiming Hispanic heritage in the 2000 Burglaries 1323.6 552.9 Census. The neighborhood has a significant Thefts 2930.3 1648.6 high-school age population with more than a third of the residents under the age of 18 in Auto thefts 596.4 196.0 2000. Childhood and adolescent overweight Arson 40.3 N/A and obesity rates show increasing trends that surpass the rates for adults. Hispanic children ages 6–11 years old are 1.3 times more likely to be overweight than non-Hispanic white children in the same age group. Between 2001 and 2004, the percentage of Latino children between 12 and 19 years of age who were overweight increased from 8 percent to 21 percent. Programs on the River

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 15 CURRENT CONDITIONS

Walk and Bikeway should focus on youth- Brightwood Neighborhood Demographics oriented activities that encourage healthy lifestyles. Category 2000 Census Most recent estimate (2008) Population 3,936 3,934 The Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway leads from the Brightwood neighborhood Average Household Size 2.8 directly to the heart of Springfield’s down- Median Household Income $15,956 $18,659 town business district, yet only 6.1 percent of Age the residents walk to work, and none reported biking to work. By highlighting the River 18 or younger 36.8%

Walk and Bikeway as an easy and inexpensive 19 to 64 55.0% way to get to work, the transportation and health benefits can pay dividends to the resi- 65 and older 8.2% dents of Brightwood. Gender

Male 46.2%

Female 53.8%

Race

White 6.6%

Black 6.2%

Asian 1.8%

Hispanic (any race) 85.2%

American Indian/Alaska Native 0.2%

Persons over 25 with HS diploma or higher 44%

Persons over 25 with Bachelor’s Degree of Higher 4%

Population living below the poverty line 46.5% 37.9%

River Walk — a family-friendly place .

16 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY CURRENT CONDITIONS

Employment According to 2000 Census data, 16.6 percent of Brightwood neighborhood residents were unemployed. This rate was nearly double the 8.5 percent unemployment rate for the entire city of Springfield; the rate may have increased, as well, as a result of the recent economic down- turn. The utilization of the River Walk and Bikeway as a transportation corridor leading to the central business district may open up employment opportunities for neighborhood residents.

Poverty Rates As might be anticipated from the high unemployment rate in Bright- wood, 38 percent of the neighborhood population reported living below the poverty level in 1999, as reported by the 2000 Census. The poverty rate for the city of Springfield, however, was 23 percent. Promoting the trail as a low-cost recreation and transportation facility should be included in all promotional and outreach materials to residents.

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 17 CURRENT CONDITIONS

COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND RESOURCES

Grocery Stores and Markets A Pride Stations and Store location on West Avenue carries a wide variety of convenience and grocery items. The Apple Tree Market along Avocado Street also houses a restaurant with take-out and catering services. There is a seasonal market during the growing season along Avocado Street just south of West Avenue.

Community Garden In the area bounded by Sanderson Street and Whiting Street is a one-block area dedicated to a community garden.

Recreational Facilities Recreational facilities provide opportunities for people to engage in physical activity. They draw individuals from the neighborhood and become centers for community activity. For example, a group of employees from the Bay State Medical facilities may engage in physical activity along the River Walk during a lunch break. There are four recreational facilities within the defined Bright- wood neighborhood.

Name Location Connecticut River Walk & Bikeway Wason Street to West Street along Riverside Road Kenefick Park Plainfield Street at Clyde Street Plainfield Street Soccer Field Plainfield Street at Clyde Street Lowell Street Park Lowell Street

18 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY CURRENT CONDITIONS

Churches Churches provide social support for a neighborhood. They can help to engage community members in discussions about spiritual and physical health. Eight churches are located within the Brightwood neighborhood, as defined for this project.

Name Location Iglesia Pentecostal Fente De 6 Talcott Street Spanish Apostolate All Souls Church Roland Street Iglesia Bautista Sinai 134 Abbe Avenue Blessed Sacrament Church 445 Plainfield Street Blessed Sacrament Church. Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses Sanderson Street Spanish Christian Church Clyde Street Greater Love Church of God and Christ 65 Newland Street Iglesia De Dios Pentecoastal Cla 72 Orchard Street

Schools Schools are a potential asset to increasing physical activity. They provide a forum for educating youth (and potentially adults) to the existence of local facilities, such as the River Walk and Bike- way. Schools may also be able to plan activities along the trail. There are two schools located within the study area. Brightwood School. Name Location Brightwood School 471 Plainfield Street Chestnut Accelerated Middle School 355 Plainfield Street

Library A branch of the Springfield Public Library is located next to the Brightwood School on Plainfield Street.

Bright Branch — Springfield Library.

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 19 CURRENT CONDITIONS

PHYSICAL CONDITIONS

Overall, the infrastructure within the Brightwood neighborhood is in good condition. There are very few sections of sidewalk that need to be repaired. Most sidewalk street intersections have ADA-compliant ramps. Street intersections are for the most part controlled by stop signs. At the intersection of Plainfield Street and Fisk, in front of the Chestnut Accelerated Middle Scholl and the library, is a stoplight and pedestrian-controlled walk signal.

Along Wason Avenue there has been continuing construction of additional buildings on the north side of the street. As new facilities are completed, new sidewalks are installed. Project completion will take several more years. This ongoing construction is to some extent a deterrent to employees of the medical facilities along Main Street to walk along Wason Avenue to access the River Walk.

Many of the crosswalk markings, unlike the sidewalks, are in poor condition. A repainting of the crosswalks would be beneficial to the overall walkability of the neighborhood.

20 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY CURRENT CONDITIONS

Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway Access Points All along its length from the Basketball Hall of Fame at the south end to Wason Avenue at the north end, the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway is challenged by a limited number of access points. At the southern end the trail is cut off from nearby neighborhoods by Interstate 91 and an active railroad line that carries both freight and passenger traffic. The only access point is a pedestrian bridge over the railroad line behind the LA Fitness facility. The next closest northern access point is at Riverside Park, State Street and West Columbus Avenue. Even here, there is an unprotected crossing of the railroad corridor. Heading north, the trail can next be accessed at Liberty Street. The trail shares the right-of-way for about a block with Clinton Street, which is a dead end. At West Avenue at the entrance to the North End Bridge, the trail can be accessed from either side of the street. The Pride Market on the south side of West Avenue provides parking, a table and seating, and use of their restroom facilities for trail users. On the north side of West Avenue, there are sidewalks to the trail from Riverside Road. At the north end of the Bright- wood neighborhood, the River Walk and Bikeway can be accessed at Laurel Street, Moore Street and Wason Avenue.

Brightwood neighborhood access to River Walk and Bikeway.

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 21 RECOMMENDATIONS

IV. RECOMMENDATIONS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Community use of the Springfield River Walk and Bikeway has made great progress during the period that RTC has been engaged through its Urban Pathways Initiative. The city of Springfield has taken a much more proactive stance toward the maintenance and safety along the River Walk. Community groups such as Brightwood Community Based Health Center, LA Fitness, North End Campus Coalition, North End Citizen’s Council and Riverside Senior Center have taken positive steps to assure that the River Walk becomes a community asset. While a great deal of progress has been made, there is more work to be done. The biggest challenge is increasing community awareness of the River Walk and overcoming the perception that it is not safe to use. In the Brightwood neighborhood, these challenges are compounded by the 10-foot wall that separates most of the neighborhood from the River Walk, limiting access to only four points. With the continued support of the community organizations and the assistance of the Springfield Parks and Recreation Department, City Planning and Economic Development and Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway will come to be recognized as a valuable community asset.

Based on RTC’s community-based work in Springfield and the Brightwood neighborhood, the following recommendations are presented to encourage further, focused work to improve the utilization of the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway for transportation, recreation and health.

INFRASTRUCTURE AND AMENITIES

1) Wayfinding One issue that has limited usage of the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway is that in many areas it is “cut off” from neighborhoods and businesses by an active railroad corridor and Interstate 91. During 2010, new wayfinding signs were placed along streets to provide direction to the River Walk. Additional wayfinding signs need to be placed throughout the Brightwood neighborhood. A map of the Springfield River Walk and Bikeway was developed by Pioneer Valley Planning Com- mission. This map is available on the city’s website: www.springfieldcityhall.com/Park/riverwalk- bikeway.0.html

22 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY RECOMMENDATIONS

A brochure with map and description and rules was also developed. Distribution of the brochure needs to be expanded. The branch library in Brightwood and the medical facilities nearby are two logical outlets. A program to get the brochures into the medical facilities was initiated during 2010.

Once someone arrives at the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway, there is only one informational kiosk and map at Riverfront Park. A map display project was initiated during 2010 to develop a new attractive map of the River Walk, and to have a map display produced. RTC worked with the Springfield Department of Parks and Recreation to design and develop a product that would help to enhance the River Walk and Bikeway visitor experience. To be located at the intersection of West Avenue and Riverside Road, the map will be similar to the types of wayfinding exhibits that are found in national parks.

2) Neighborhood Street Crossings While virtually all of the sidewalks within the Brightwood neighborhood are in good condition, the same cannot be said for the pavement markings for crosswalks. There are some street sidewalk intersections that are completely missing crosswalk markings. Where there is pavement marking of a crosswalk, most are in very poor condition. It is recommended that all pavement markings at crosswalks be reapplied during 2012.

Between the Bay State Medical complexes on Main Street and Riverside Road, Wason Avenue crosses a rail corridor. As the commercial properties along Wason have been developed, new sidewalk has been installed. However, it appears that was not the case at the rail crossing, where no sidewalk exists, just a section of asphalt. It is recommended the city of Springfield contact the railroad and have sidewalk installed on both sides of the rail crossing of Wason Avenue.

Railroad crossing at Wason Avenue.

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 23 RECOMMENDATIONS

CONNECTIONS AND ACCESS

As stated previously, access to the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway from the Brightwood neighborhood is a significant challenge because of a 10-foot-high flood control wall that separates the neighborhood streets and sidewalks from the River Walk, which runs along the top of the levee. Riverside Road runs along the entire length of the wall between Wason Avenue and West Street. Between the curb of Riverside Road and the wall, there is also a sidewalk along the entire length between Wason Avenue and West Street. In addition to limiting access from neighborhood streets, this separation also creates a safety concern due to limiting points at which someone could exit the River Walk. It is strongly recommended that the city of Springfield begin discussions with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to identify a way to create at least two new entry/ exit points to the River Walk from Riverside Road between Wason Avenue and West Street.

In the near term, improved signage, installation of a map exhibit at West Street and Riverside Road, and distribution of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission map and brochure should help to overcome concerns.

The Fun on the River Walk event that was held in Brightwood on Saturday, May 21, 2011, was very successful in getting neighborhood residents more familiar and comfortable with the River Walk as a community asset. Nearly 400 people attended the event, which was centered at the intersection of West Avenue and Riverside Road. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., residents flocked to the River Walk to enjoy numerous activities and food. Our partners in this event included: Brightwood Community School Based Health Center, City of Springfield Planning & Economic Development, North End Campus Coalition, North End Citizen’s Council, Partners for a Healthier Community, Riverview Senior Center and Pioneer Valley Planning Commission. Promotional flyers for the event were made available in both English and Spanish.

24 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY RECOMMENDATIONS

The north end of the Connecticut River Walk, just beyond Wason Avenue, ends at the Springfield/ Chicopee town line. Plans call for the River Walk to extend into Chicopee and connect to walks already developed within that community. During 2010, RTC attended two meetings — hosted by the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission — that were designed to move that connection forward. Efforts to complete the connection to Chicopee should be encouraged.

The southern end of the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway in Springfield is a dead end. Again, plans were developed to connect Springfield’s River Walk and Bikeway with the developed riverfront tail in Agawam. Discussions have taken place during 2010 to develop solutions to make the connection a reality. The biggest challenge is an active railroad corridor between the River Walk and any connection that could be made to Agawam. Efforts to develop this connection should be ongoing. Southern end of River Walk and Bikeway.

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

Two of the primary safety considerations have already been briefly touched on. First, at the south end of the River Walk the pathway dead ends and it separated from any “escape route” by a chain-link fence and an active rail line. The area just south of the dead end is currently heavily overgrown with shrubs and brush. However, there are individuals who come onto the trail from the south, primarily to fish in the Connecticut River. There is a well-worn dirt path that leads south from the end of the River Walk. During 2010, it was recommended that the area south of the end of the River Walk be opened up to provide a better sense of a way on and off the trail.

Second, at the northern end of the River Walk, the pathway lies on top of a flood control dike that is 10 feet above street level. The only exit points are at West Street, Moore Street and Wason Avenue. It will be recommended that additional access/exit point be developed.

Another safety concern was a homeless encampment under a bridge that takes the River Walk across an active east-west railroad corridor. The city of Springfield Police Department has been proactive during 2010 to remove this safety concern.

Graffiti has been an issue at several of the highway overpasses. However, Springfield has a very active program to deal with graffiti as soon as it appears. In some cases this effort is conducted on a weekly basis. Interestingly, very little graffiti has ever been seen on the 10-foot-tall flood-control wall that runs for many blocks along Riverside Road.

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 25 RECOMMENDATIONS

Illegal dumping and litter are issues that once were not dealt with in a timely fashion. However, during the past year, the city has been much more responsive. The running group from LA Fitness reports litter and dumping on a weekly basis. As pride in the River Walk has increased across the community, more citizens are participating in helping to keep the River Walk litter free.

The River Walk is patrolled on a regular basis by Springfield’s Police Department. They utilize both bikes and patrol cars. In addition, as with most trails, the more people who are using the River Walk, the safer it becomes. There is still the perception that the River Walk is not a safe place, but that attitude will change over time as it becomes increasingly utilized.

To that end, the Fun on the River Walk event on May 21, 2011, went a long way in helping to promote the River Walk as a safe place to have fun. The Springfield Police Department Bicycle Patrol was in attendance throughout the event and interacted with the community in a highly positive way.

EDUCATION AND PROGRAMMING

As just stated, there is still the perception that the River Walk isn’t safe for everyday use. Education and utilization will go a long way in helping to dispel that perception. During 2010, volunteers conducted lunchtime tours on the downtown section of the River Walk. Once or twice a week, volunteers would meet downtown workers at the Riverfront Park entrance to the River Walk and conduct a tour either north or south. In 2011, this program will be expanded to include the Bay State medical complexes at the northern end of the River Walk. In 2009 and continuing into 2010, LA Fitness, which is located at the “skywalk” entrance to the River Walk, conducted weekly runs on the River Walk. These types of activities show people that the River Walk is a safe and enjoyable place to exercise. Participants in these outreach programs will help to spread the word of this valuable community resource along the Connecticut River.

During 2010, meetings were held with representatives of the North End Campus Coalition to begin planning for a 2011 event on the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway in the Brightwood neighborhood. That event, Fun on the River Walk, was held on May 21. Nearly 400 local residents attended and took part in numerous activities, including a River Walk scavenger hunt. Based on the success of this event, additional community activities should be developed around the River Walk.

26 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY CONCLUSION

CONCLUSION

The process of converting the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway in Springfield from a neglected strip of asphalt into a city gem has made great strides in the two years that RTC has been engaged through its Urban Pathways Initiative. From a handful of community advocates, the initiative has grown to engage ever-larger segments of the community. The work began by bringing together representatives from the health community, and the region’s largest employer, Springfield City Planning and Parks departments and Pioneer Valley Regional Planning to analyze the challenges and developing a plan to address them while engaging new populations within the community. Month after month progress could be seen as more and more people came in contact with the River Walk and learned of its potential.

There is still much work to be done. The groundwork that has been laid must be nurtured so that when RTC’s engagement comes to an end, there will still be sufficient motivation across the coalition to support and carry on the work. Many of the challenges that lie ahead to improve access to the River Walk will take years of work and significant funding to be realized. But it would ap- pear at this point that the community support and political will are in place to see the improvements accomplished. Engagement of the New North Citizens Council to develop neighborhood programming that utilizes the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway as a focal point should evolve into a series of annual events.

Finally, outreach to the Bay State health campuses near the north end of the River Walk and Bike- way will provide employees with a venue for exercise and relaxation that many might not even know exists.

We hope this assessment can serve as a tool for local advocacy groups, neighborhood residents and decision makers who are involved in efforts to expand and better connect the River Walk and Bikeway to Springfield’s neighborhoods.

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 27 APPENDIX

TECHNICAL APPENDIX EXAMPLES AND INSTRUCTIONS

This Technical Appendix includes examples of materials used to conduct Sidewalk Quality: Examples a physical assessment examining trail access and pedestrian and bicycle

conditions near the River Walk. Materials include:

• A visual guide to assist in identifying and classifying conditions to 0 – No sidewalk or path be assessed

• The assessment instrument — a table used to inventory physical

conditions observed.

• Maps of neighborhood zones used in assessment

1 – Sidewalk or path, poorly maintained

2 – Sidewalk, fair condition

3 – Sidewalk, good condition

28 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY APPENDIX

EXAMPLES AND INSTRUCTIONS

ON THE MAP: How to record sidewalk quality on the map HOW TO MARK CROSSWALKS & CURB CROSSWALK QUALITY Mark each side of the street with one number per block. RAMPS ON MAP: See other side of sheet for guide to sidewalk quality numbers.

If the quality of the sidewalk varies greatly on the same block, choose a number that best describes its overall condition.

0 – not marked

ON THE SPREADSHEET: Intersection Treatment: Examples

CROSSWALK TYPE

1 – faded paint A: Two parallel lines of paint (most common in New Orleans)

Stopsign types: Stoplight types: Other: All way Timed Yield Partial By request Roundabout Non-traditional lights 2 – worn but not faded B: “Ladder” crosswalk

C: Other, including solid paint, 3 – solid, bright paint textured surface or raised crosswalk

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 29 APPENDIX

EXAMPLES AND INSTRUCTIONS

TYPES OF EXAMPLES OF WAYFINDING SIGNS: What is a CURB RAMP QUALITY: BIKE RACKS: pedestrian signal?

0 – no curb ramp 1  EXAMPLES OF SIGNS: BOLLARD

1 – curb ramp, poor condition

2  GRID

2 – curb ramp, good condition, but without textured area for blind users 3  U-RACK or STAPLE

3 – curb ramp, good condition, with textured area for blind users 4  WAVE

30 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY APPENDIX

Intersection Treatment for Cars (check one) Stop light Stop sign Other Zone Location None Timed By request All way Partial Enter description or notes N5 Abbe Ave. & Riverside Rd. X NO STOP SIGN N5 Abbe Ave. & Plainfield St. X X STOP ON ABBE AVENUE N5 Abbe Ave. & Fisk Ave. X X STOP ON ABBE AVENUE N5 Abbe Ave. & E Fisk Ave. X NO STOP SIGN N5 Rowland St. & Riverside Rd. X X STOP ON ROLAND N5 Rowland St. & Plainfield St. X X STOP ON ROLAND N5 Rowland St. & Fisk Ave. INTERSECTION UNDER CONSTRUCTION N5 Rowland St. & E Fisk Ave. INTERSECTION UNDER CONSTRUCTION N6 Clayton St. & Riverside Rd. X NO STOP SIGN N6 Clayton St. & Plainfield St. X X STOP ON CLAYTON STREET N6 Plainfield St. & Fisk Ave. X N6 Plainfield St. & Sanderson St. X X STOP ON SANDERSON N6 Sanderson St. & Whiting St. X NO STOP SIGN N6 Sanderson St. & Division St. X X STOP ON DIVISION STREET N6 Clyde St. & M St. X NO STOP SIGN N6 Clyde St. & Plainfield St. X X STOP ON CLYDE STREET N7 Newland St. & Riverside Rd. X X STOP ON NEWLAND STREET N7 Newland St. & Plainfield St. X NO STOP SIGN - NEWLAND ONE WAY ST. N7 Orchard St. & Riverside Rd. INTERSECTION UNDER CONSTRUCTION N7 Orchard St. & Plainfield St. X X STOP ON ORCHARD N7 Washburn St. & Riverside Rd. X X STOP ON WASHBURN STREET N7 Washburn St. & Plainfield St. X NO STOP SIGN - WASHBURN ONE WAY ST. N7 Lowell St. & Riverside Rd. X NO STOP SIGN N7 Lowell St. & Plainfield St. X X STOP ON LOWELL STREET N7 West St. & Riverside Rd. X N7 West St. & Plainfield St. X

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 31 APPENDIX

Crosswalks across Street A Crosswalks across Street B Type Paint Signed Ped Qual- Type Paint Signed Ped Quality Quality Signal? ity of Curb Quality Signal? of Curb Ramps Ramps Zone Street A & Street B A/B/C 0/1/2/3 Yes/No/ Yes/No/ 0/1/2/3 A/B/C 0/1/2/3 Yes/No/ Yes/No/ 0/1/2/3 Partial Partial Partial Partial N5 Abbe Ave. & Riverside Rd. 0 0 NO NO 2 0 0 NO NO 2 N5 Abbe Ave. & Plainfield St. A 2 NO NO 2 A 2 N0 NO 2 N5 Abbe Ave. & Fisk Ave. 0 0 NO NO 2 0 0 NO NO 2 N5 Abbe Ave. & E Fisk Ave. 0 0 NO NO 2 0 NO NO 0 N5 Rowland St. & Riverside Rd. 0 0 NO NO 2/3 0 0 NO NO 2 N5 Rowland St. & Plainfield St. A 2 NO NO 2 A 2 NO NO 2 N5 Rowland St. & Fisk Ave. CONSTRUCTION N5 Rowland St. & E Fisk Ave. CONSTRUCTION N6 Clayton St. & Riverside Rd. 0 0 NO NO 2 0 0 N0 NO 2 N6 Clayton St. & Plainfield St. 0 0 NO NO 3 NONE N6 Plainfield St. & Fisk Ave. 0 0 NO NO 2 a 2 NO YES N6 Plainfield St. & Sanderson St. 0 0 NO NO NONE A 2 NO NO 2 N6 Sanderson St . & Whiting St. 0 0 NO NO NONE 0 0 NO M 2 N6 Sanderson St . & Division St. 0 0 NO NO 3 0 0 NO NO 3 N6 Clyde St. & M St. 0 0 NO NO NONE 0 0 NO NO 2 N6 Clyde St. & Plainfield St. 0 0 NO NO 2 NONE N7 Newland St. & Riverside Rd. 0 0 NO NO 2 0 0 NO NO 2 N7 Newland St. & Plainfield St. A 1 NO NO 2 NONE N7 Orchard St. & Riverside Rd. CONSTRUCTION N7 Orchard St. & Plainfield St. 0 0 NO NO 2 0 0 NO NO NONE N7 Washburn St. & Riverside Rd. B 3 NO NO 3 0 0 NO NO 2 N7 Washburn St. & Plainfield St. A 1 NO NO 2 0 0 NO NO NONE N7 Lowell St. & Riverside Rd. 0 0 NO NO 2 0 0 N NO 2 N7 Lowell St. & Plainfield St. 0 0 NO NO 2 2 0 N NO NONE N7 West St. & Riverside Rd. A 2 YES YES NONE A 2 N NO 2 N7 West St. & Plainfield St. 0 0 NO NO 0 B 2 N NO 2

32 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY APPENDIX

Intersection Treatment for Cars (check one) None Stop light Stop sign Other Zone Location Timed By request All way Partial Enter description or notes N1 Center St. & Plainfield St. X NO STOP SIGN N1 Main St. & Wason Ave. X X STOP ON WASON AVENUE N1 Wason Ave. & Birnie Ave. X X STOP ON BIRNIE AVENUE N1 Birnie Ave. & Un-named road X NO STOP SIGN N1 Un-named road & Main St. X NO STOP SIGN N2 Birnie Ave. & Walter St. X X STOP ON WATER STREET N2 Walter St. & Main St. X N3 Wason Ave. & Fisk Ave. X X STOP ON FISK AVENUE N3 Wason Ave. & Plainfield St. X X N3 Wason Ave. & Riverside Rd. X X N3 Hyde Ave. & Fisk Ave. X X STOP ON HYDE AVENUE N3 Hyde Ave. & Plainfield St. X X STOP ON HYDE AVENUE N3 Demond Ave. & Fisk Ave. X X STOP ON DEMOND AVENUE N3 Demond Ave. & Plainfield St. X X STOP ON DEMOND AVENUE N3 Moore St. & Plainfield St. X X STOP ON MOORE STREET N3 Moore St. & Riverside Rd. X X STOP ON MOORE STREET N4 Laureal St. & Plainfield St. X X STOP ON LAUREL STREET N4 Laureal St. & Brightwood St. X NO STOP SIGN N4 Laureal St. & Riverside Rd. X X STOP ON LAUREL STREET N4 Worcester Ave. & Plainfield St. X X STOP ON WORCESTER AVENUE N4 Worcester Ave. & Fisk Ave. X X STOP ON WORCESTER AVENUE N4 Brightwood St. & Plainfield St. X X STOP ON BRIGHTWOOD N4 Talcott Ave. & Plainfield St. X X STOP ON TALCOTT AVENUE N4 Talcott Ave. & Fisk Ave. X X STOP ON TALCOTT AVENUE

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 33 APPENDIX

Crosswalks across Street A Crosswalks across Street B Type Paint Signed Ped Quality of Type Paint Signed Ped Quality of Curb Quality Signal? Curb Ramps Quality Signal? Ramps Zone Street A & Street B A/B/C 0/1/2/3 Yes/No/ Yes/No/ 0/1/2/3 A/B/C 0/1/2/3 Yes/No/ Yes/No/ 0/1/2/3 Partial Partial Partial Partial N1 Center St. & Plainfield St. 0 0 NO NO 3 0 0 NO NO 3 N1 Main St. & Wason Ave. 0 0 NO NO 1 0 0 NO NO 3 N1 Wason Ave. & Birnie Ave. 0 0 NO NO 0 0 0 NO NO 3 N2 Birnie Ave. & Un-named NO CROSSING NO NO 0 0 0 NO NO Construction N2 Un-named & Main St. B 2 NO NO 0 NONE N2 Birnie Ave. & Walter St. 0 0 NO NO 0 A/B/C 1 NO NO 2 N2 Walter St. & Main St. A 1 YES 2 A/B/C 1 NO YES 2 N3 Wason Ave. & Fisk Ave. 0 0 NO NO 3 0 0 NO NO 3 N3 Wason Ave. & Plainfield St. 0 0 NO NO 2 0 0 NO NO 2 N3 Wason Ave. & Riverside Rd. 0 0 NO NO 2 0 0 NO NO 2 N3 Hyde Ave. & Fisk Ave. A 2 NO NO 2 NONE N3 Hyde Ave. & Plainfield St. A 2 NO NO 2 NONE N3 Demond Ave. & Fisk Ave. A 2 NO NO 2 NONE N3 Demond Ave. & Plainfield St. A 2 NO NO 2 0 0 NO NO 2 N3 Moore St. & Plainfield St. A 2 NO NO 2 NONE N3 Moore St. & Riverside Rd. 0 0 NO NO 2 0 0 NO NO 2 N4 Laureal St. & Plainfield St. A 2 NO NO 2 NONE N4 Laureal St. & Brightwood St. 0 0 NO NO 2 NONE N4 Laureal St. & Riverside Rd. A 2 NO NO 2 A/B/C 2 NO NO 2 N4 Worcester Ave & Plainfield St. A 2 NO NO 2 NONE N4 Worcester Ave & Fisk Ave. A 2 NO NO 2 NONE N4 Brightwood St. & Plainfield St. 0 0 NO NO 2 0 0 NO NO 2 N4 Talcott Ave. & Plainfield St. 0 0 NO NO 2 0 0 NO NO 2 N4 Talcott Ave. & Fisk Ave. A 2 NO NO 2 NONE

34 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY APPENDIX

Amenity? Wayfinding Sign? Bike Rack? Drinking Bench Art Public Picnic Other or Description Description Type Capacity Fountain Restroom Table Zone Item # # < 5 5-10 > 10 7 4 4 X 3 2 X 3 3 X 4 X 3 ASPHALT RAMP TO RIVER WALK AT RIVERSIDE ROAD AND MOORE STREET 4 ASPHALT RAMP TO RIVER WALK AT RIVERSIDE ROAD AND LAUREL STREET

7 4 7 MID-STREET CROSSWALK, SIGNED, 90 FEET NORTH OF WEST ST. CURB RAMPS 2, STRIPPED A

7 MID-STREET CROSSWALK, 250 FEET NORTH OF WEST STREET CURB RAMPS 2, STRIPPED A

7 RIVERWALK SIGN AT START OF WALL

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 35 APPENDIX

NEIGHBORHOOD ZONES USED IN ASSESSMENT

ZONE 1 ZONE 2

36 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY APPENDIX

ZONE 3

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 37 APPENDIX

ZONE 4

ZONE 5

38 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY APPENDIX

ZONE 6

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 39 APPENDIX

ZONE 7

40 CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY • RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY APPENDIX

WORKS CITED:

1. Henderson, K. 2005. “Parks and Physical Activity.” Parks and Recreation, August: 20–26.

2. Troped, P.J., Saunders, R.P., Pate, R.R. 2005. “Comparisons Between Rail-Trail Users and Non-Users and Men and Women’s Patterns of Use in a Suburban Community.” Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 2: 169–180.

RAILS-TO-TRAILS CONSERVANCY • CONNECTICUT RIVER WALK AND BIKEWAY 41 Northeast Regional Office / 2133 Market Street, Suite 222 / Camp Hill, PA 17011 tel 717.238.1717 / fax 717.238.7566 / www.railstotrails.org

National Headquarters / 2121 Ward Court, NW, 5th Floor / Washington, DC 20037 tel 202.331.9696 / fax 202.223.9257 / www.railstotrails.org