Route 104 Corridor Trail Feasibility Study - Genesee Transportation ...

RECOMMENDATIONS
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Route 104 Corridor Trail Feasibility Study
structure. Construction impacts are minimized by a leap-frog construction technique that allows the contractor to
continuously stage equipment on the built boardwalk sections.
Post-construction monitoring of completed boardwalks indicates that vegetation continues to thrive, and small
animals are able to move freely beneath the completed structures. The boardwalk is above grade and creates a
micro-climate that can add diversity to overall site conditions. The shaded area beneath the boardwalk will retain soil
moisture and a lower air temperature during the summer months. Depending on exposure, the ground beneath the
boardwalk may be slower to thaw in the spring. Figure 18 provides typical boardwalk details and images.
The helical pier boardwalk system recommended for this project can be constructed with minimal environmental
impacts, can accommodate light vehicles for emergency response and trail maintenance, and is suitable for ADA
compliant multi-use trails built to AASHTO standards. However, other boardwalk systems are available.
Construction costs for boardwalks can range from $15-$30 per square foot, depending on the foundation system,
framing, decking material and railings. Helical pier boardwalks cost $27.50 per square foot, but the initial
construction costs need to be weighed against long term stability, maintainability, safety, environmental impacts and
ADA compliance. Lower cost boardwalk systems are often suitable for low volume recreational trails and footpaths in
undeveloped areas, but they can be prone to flooding, and can be difficult places to maintain ADA accessibility.
Wetland locations are approximate based on on-site visual assessment, aerial mapping, and state and federal
wetland mapping. Jurisdictional status is dependent on a site-specific wetland delineation. When the wetland
delineation is conducted, it may be determined that there are marginal wetland areas that are suitable for a less
structured wetland crossing. However, the helical pier boardwalk system provides a durable, reliable, and stable
structure that is recommended for active transportation systems, and has been used in developing the cost estimate.
3. Gateways, Trailheads and Signage
Each entrance to the Route 104 Corridor Trail, as well as every at-grade road crossing, will require safety features.
Aesthetic features, such as trail gateways, are also recommended to provide character.
Gateways. Each road crossing and trailhead presents an opportunity to define the character of the Route 104
Corridor Trail. Using the proximity to the Ontario-Midland Railroad as a guide, the preliminary design for aesthetic
features reflects this railroad character. Trail gateways have been designed that utilize locally salvaged railroad
materials. Pier caps could be constructed from local stone, recycled steel or salvaged railroad tie plates. Piers could
be constructed from recycled railroad ties, with metal strapping used to define the structure. The gateways would
welcome trail users as they enter the trail, and alert trail users that a road crossing is coming up. Figure 20 illustrates
a proposed trail gateway.
Trailheads and Signage. One trailhead is proposed in each of the four phases/towns. Each trailhead should have
parking for approximately ten cars, as well as an informational kiosk with trail maps. Figure 20 illustrates a
preliminary design for a trail kiosk that is constructed from locally salvaged railroad materials, which would
complement the gateways described previously. Figure 17 indicates proposed trailhead locations.
Other Signage. At each road crossing, signage is needed to instruct both motorists and trail users. Figure 20
illustrates a typical road crossing, and the associated signage. Road crossing signage should comply with the
FHWA‘s Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and the American Association of State Highway
Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Guidelines for the Development of Bicycle Facilities. In addition, the existing
traffic signal at the proposed Salt Road crossing should be upgraded to include a pedestrian signal.
Prepared for GTC and the Towns of Ontario, Sodus, Webster, and Williamson, NY Page 49