Multi-Use Trails/Pathways

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Creates a dedicated route for pedestrians, bicyclists, scooters, and skaters that is separate from vehicles. Serves both transportation and recreational users.

Description

Multi-use trails provide two-way travel for walking, bicycling, jogging, and skating. They are paved pathways that may be built independent from the road network or alongside a roadway. Also called shared use path or side path.

Multi-use paths can be connected to trails and sidewalks to provide users with shorter, more direct routes and to create a robust pedestrian and bicycle network.

Width can vary based on right-of-way constraints. Multi-use trails should be wide enough for two bicyclists to ride side-by-side, either for social cycling or safe passing, preferred 12 feet or wider and a minimum of 10 feet. Paths may have a yellow stripe or dash to separate opposite directions of travel.

When multi-use trails intersect with major roads, marked crosswalks should be provided and signals may need to be altered. Signs, and sometimes pavement markings, should indicate to both multi-use path users and drivers on the intersecting road that a crossing is upcoming.

Wayfinding signs can help users navigate multiuse paths and determine nearby destinations.

Safety Benefits

  • Physically separates pedestrians and bicycles from vehicles.
  • Reduces conflicts with drivers.
  • Can accommodate two-way pedestrian and bicycle use.

     

Street Types and Context

Applicable Street Types

Can be implemented along an independent alignment or along an existing roadway alignment, which may cross any street type. 

Primary User Groups

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Key Implementation Considerations

  • The design must accommodate pedestrians with disabilities and should be part of an ADA compliant pathway.
  • Permeable pavement materials or green storm water infrastructure can be used to manage runoff in particularly environmentally sensitive areas.
  • In constrained sections of trail where the minimum width is not possible, a width of 8 feet can be used; however, this may increase trail user conflicts, crash risk, and decreases trail user comfort.
  • Easements for right-of-way may be needed, which will require additional time and resources.
  • Multi-use trails may need to accommodate maintenance vehicles

     

Expected Crash Reduction

86% reduction in crashes with bicyclists, compared to bicyclists riding in the roadway. (Chen et al. 2012).

Cost

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Varies, but are typically among the more expensive types of bicycle and pedestrian facilities. Depending on the location and existing conditions, implementation of multiuse trails can include terrain grading, surface installation, lighting installation or upgrades, landscaping, and signage.

Timeline

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Typically, three or more years for new multiuse trails on independent rights of way. Shorter timeframes may be possible for multi-use trails adjacent to a roadway.

 

References

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