1. Rustic Path and Bridge SETTING: Near River. Could be constructed in preserved open space created with parks, conservation subdivisions, or neo-traditional neighborhoods. EXAMPLE:Existing and potential river shore paths. OBJECTIVE: Safe and enjoyable recreational trail experiences (snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, walking, running, and wide tire biking) in a natural settin for a wide range of abilities and ages, including children not mature enough to share a roadway with motor vehicle traffic. DESIGN: Trail with 4' wide tread plus an additional 1' clearin of trees and shrubs on either side to enable 2 people to walk side-by-side or provide wobble room for bicycles. Crown the trail tread with 3% side slopes to shed water and thereby enable use of path in wetter conditions. Bridges 4' wider are adequate where the bridge is less than 2' above ground or stream bottom level. Bridges should be 8' wide with 42" high railing where bridge is more than 2' above ground or stream bottom level, especially with the narrowing of trail surface that occurs as snow depth increases on a bridge.

IMPROVEMENTS: Build up crown of River Shore Path with well-drained material that drians well for a dryer trail even though flooding will dpeosit mud on the trail surface. Depending on which alternative routes are selected, the existing River Shore Path may be extended on one or both sides of the Winooski River. COST: $1.60 to $3.35 per linear foot.

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Nat Goodhue
GOODHUE LAND DESIGN
P.O. Box 235
Stowe, VT 05672
ngoodhue@stowevt.net