This 2011 report from Rails-to-Trails Conservancy discusses preliminary considerations and strategies in the process of developing a trail along a waterway. Topics include land ownership, developing an agreement, owner use, liability, maintenance, public safety and other considerations. The report includes sample cooperative agreements between water districts and local jurisdictions for trail development.

There are more than 20,000 miles of rail-trails crossing the nation and connecting towns and country. Getting out on the trail to enjoy the outdoors, exercise or spend time with friends and family is an option for everyone. However, when we think about commuting to work or running errands from A to B, many assume […]

This study assesses the effects of zig-zag pavement markings at trail crossings on the W&OD Trail in Virginia. The study found that the markings installed in advance of the two crossings heightened the awareness of both approaching motorists and trail users, and reduced motorist speeds. The study also found that motorists have limited understanding regarding […]

The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design set minimum requirements–both scoping and technical–for newly designed and constructed or altered state and local government facilities, public accommodations, and commercial facilities to be readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities. Created by U.S. Department of Justice

This April 2010 draft memorandum of understanding between the city of Columbus, Ohio, Recreation and Parks Department and Franklin County, Ohio, regional parks system MetroParks is part of an agreement in which MetroParks assumes maintenance responsibility for maintenance of trails within the city of Columbus. Created by City of Columbus

This research project provides up-to-date information on legal risks to transportation and other public entities having bikeways, or the authority to designate them, or bicycle use on shared roadways. This report will be useful to attorneys, transportation officials, risk managers, planners, maintenance engineers, financial officers, policy makers, and all persons interested in the relative rights […]

This Public Art Master Plan lays out the implementation of public art along Lexington, Kentucky’s Legacy Trail. Supporters note that the trail will be a place for the community to learn about its culture, environment and heritage. As people pass through this landscape, its features, history and processes should be elucidated by the artwork sited […]

The City of San Jose Reflective Striping Specifications outlines the specifications, requirements and execution of retro-reflective thermoplastic pavement striping for the City of San Jose trail system. Created by the City of San Jose

This April 2010 draft lease agreement between the city of Columbus, Ohio, Recreation and Parks Department and Franklin County, Ohio, regional parks system MetroParks is part of an agreement in which MetroParks assumes maintenance responsibility for maintenance of trails within the city of Columbus. Created by the City of Columbus

This 2009 License Agreement between St. Louis and Lake Counties Regional Railroad Authority and the City of Duluth outlines the agreements of a 20 year lease ($1 per year) for the Duluth Lakewalk in Minnesota. This agreement details all aspects of trail development, including construction specifications, materials preferences and shared access agreements. Specifically mentioned is […]