Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
14C H A P T E R
14-1
Ch
ap
ter 14. S
ha
red U
se Pa
th D
esign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
Shared-UsePath Design
A shared-usepath serves as part of atransportation circulationsystem and supportsmultiple recreationopportunities, suchas walking, bicycling,and inline skating.A shared-use pathtypically has a surfacethat is asphalt, concrete,or firmly packed crushedaggregate. The 1999AASHTO Guide for theDevelopment of BicycleFacilities defines ashared-use path as beingphysically separated frommotor vehicular traffic
Figure 14-1. Shared-use paths provide recreation andtransportation opportunities for a variety of user groupsincluding pedestrians and bicyclists.
with an open space or barrier (AASHTO,1999). Shared-use paths should always bedesigned to include pedestrians even if theprimary anticipated users are bicyclists.
Shared-use paths provide atransportation function. All newlyconstructed shared-use paths shouldbe built to provide access for peoplewith disabilities. In addition, existingshared-use paths should be improvedto enhance access whenever possible. Ifimprovements to existing facilities cannotbe made immediately, it is recommendedthat information, including signage, beprovided at all path entrances. Thisinformation should clearly conveyobjective information to trail users,including data about grade, cross slope,surface, and width.
14C H A P T E R
14-2
Ch
ap
ter
14.
Sh
are
d U
se P
ath
Des
ign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
14.1 Background information
For most shared-use paths, bicyclistsare the primary user group. Cyclistsinclude tandem, recumbent, and handpowered three-wheelers. Road racingwheelchairs may use shared-use paths,reaching speeds of over 30 mph ondownhill sections, and should have thesame rights and privileges as cyclists.In many cases, the design requirementsfor bicyclists are similar, if not morestringent, than the design requirementsfor pedestrians with disabilities. Forexample, people who use wheelchairscan travel over small changes in level.However, because bicyclists are oftentraveling at faster speeds, smooth surfacesare needed. Although people with visionimpairments can identify an edgeprotection in a trail environment if it ismore than 76 mm (3 in) high, an edgeprotection lower than a 1.065 m (42 in)railing can be dangerous for a bicyclist.
For this report, the majority ofthe accessibility recommendations forshared-use paths are based on the 1999
AASHTO Guide for the Developmentof Bicycle Facilities (AASHTO, 1999).Additional issues, such as protrudingobjects (that are not addressed in theAASHTO bicycle facility guide) are alsoincluded in this report. However, therecommendations for grade in this reportare based on the work by the RegulatoryNegotiation Committee for OutdoorDeveloped Areas because the maximumgrades identified for bicyclists in theAASHTO bicycle facility guide do notprovide access to many people withmobility impairments.
14.2 Access to shared-use paths
Creating a shared-use path thatprovides access for people with disabilitiesinvolves more than the trail itself. Ensuringthat an accessible pathway leads up to theshared-use path must also be considered.In addition, all access points along theshared-use path should be accessible topeople with disabilities. Furthermore, thefacilities around the trail should also bedesigned for access. For example:
14C H A P T E R
14-3
Ch
ap
ter 14. S
ha
red U
se Pa
th D
esign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
Figure 14-2. Curb ramps andother accessible featuresshould be provided atshared-use pathaccess points.
• Trailhead and destination areaswith parking and bathrooms shouldconform to ADAAG requirementsfor accessible parking andbathrooms;
• Elements, such as picnic areas,should be connected with a pathwaythat meets the accessible design
Case Study 14-1
Anticipated to span eightcounties between Chadron andNorfolk, Nebraska, the 550 km(321 mile) Cowboy Trail willbe the longest rails to trailsconversion in the United Stateswhen it is complete.
recommendations for shared-usepaths;
• Road access points shouldmeet the recommendations inChapter 16; and
• Signage at the access point shouldconform to ADAAG requirementsfor font size, font type, and contrast.
As previously indicated, the designof pathways leading up to shared-usepaths should provide the same standardof accessibility as is provided on the pathitself. However, the full 3.05 m (10 ft) thatis recommended for tread width may notbe necessary unless traffic is expected tobe heavy.
14.2.1 Rail trails
Rail trails are an example ofshared-use paths that are created from theright-of-way of abandoned railroad lines.Because railroad beds have gradual gradesand turns, relatively few barriers exist in
14C H A P T E R
14-4
Ch
ap
ter
14.
Sh
are
d U
se P
ath
Des
ign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
Figure 14-3. POTENTIAL PROBLEM:Although rail trails are often veryaccessible to people with mobilityimpairments, they may not beusable by people with mobilityimpairments if the pathleading up to the trailis very steep orincludes unstablesurfaces.
Figure 14-4.GOOD DESIGN:Access to rail trailscan be improved byreplacing steep gradeswith more gradual slopes.
making this type of trail accessible. Thegreatest challenge is typically designingan accessible pathway to the shared-usepath. If the rail bed is raised high abovethe surrounding areas, providing accessfor people with mobility impairmentsmay involve changes in design, suchas reducing grade through the use ofswitchbacks or building ramped surfaces.
14.3 Conflicts between multipleuser groups
Shared-use paths attract a variety ofuser groups who often have conflictingneeds. All pedestrians are affected bysudden changes in the environment andby other trail users, such as bicyclists,who travel at high speeds. However, theconflicts on shared-use paths are especiallysignificant for people who cannot reactquickly to hazards, such as some peoplewith mobility impairments. To improvethe shared-use path experience for allusers, including people with disabilities,designers and planners should be aware ofpotential conflicts and employ innovative
14C H A P T E R
14-5
Ch
ap
ter 14. S
ha
red U
se Pa
th D
esign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
solutions whenever possible. Basicconflicts can be reduced by:
• Providing information, includingsignage, in multiple formats thatclearly indicates permitted usersand rules of conduct;
• Ensuring that the shared-use pathprovides sufficient width and anappropriate surface for everyone,or providing alternate paths fordifferent types of users;
• Providing sufficient separation forusers traveling at different speeds.For example, if volume and spacepermits, bicyclists and pedestriansshould have different lanes orpathways;
• Providing the necessary amenitiesfor all users. For example, bicyclistsrequire bike racks or lockers; and
• Considering the needs of peoplewith disabilities within all of theuser groups permitted on the path.For example, many individuals with
disabilities may use a longer handcycle or wider tricycle design thatmay not be compatible with bikeracks, bathroom stalls, or lockersof limited width. Longer and widerequipment may need additionalmaneuvering space in restroomsand when transferring from thechair to benches.
14.4 Shared-use path surfaces
The condition of the surface is asignificant factor in determining howeasily a person with a disability can travelalong a shared-use path. The accessibilityof the shared-use path surface isdetermined by a variety of factorsincluding:
• Surface material;
• Surface firmness and stability;
• Slip-resistance;
• Changes in level; and
• Size and design of surface openings.
Figure 14-5. Shared-use paths attracta variety of user groups. Providing signsthat clearly indicate which users havethe right of way will help avoid conflict.
Figure 14-6. GOOD DESIGN:Shared-use paths that provide differentlanes for users who travel at differentspeeds prevent conflicts between usergroups on high use trails.
14C H A P T E R
14-6
Ch
ap
ter
14.
Sh
are
d U
se P
ath
Des
ign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
14.4.1 Surface material
There are various surface materialsthat can be used in outdoor environments.Shared-use paths are generally pavedwith asphalt or concrete, but may alsouse prepared surfaces such as crushedstone or soil stabilizing agents mixed withnative soils or aggregates. High use trailspassing through developed areas or fragileenvironments are commonly surfacedwith asphalt or concrete to maximizethe longevity of the shared-use pathsurface and promote bicycle and inlineskating use.
The surfacing material on theshared-use path significantly affects whichuser groups will be capable of negotiatingthe terrain. Shared-use paths that havebeen built using crushed aggregategenerally are unusable by inline skatersand slow down the speed of bicyclists.Paved surfaces should be provided inareas that are subject to flooding ordrainage problems, in areas with steepterrain, and in areas where bicyclists orinline skaters are the primary users.
14.4.2 Surface firmness, stability, and slip resistance
The firmness, stability, and slipresistance of the shared-use path surfaceaffects all users but is particularlyimportant for people using mobilitydevices such as canes, crutches,wheelchairs, or walkers.
• Firmness is the degree to whicha surface resists deformation byindentation when a person walksor wheels across it. A firm surfacewould not compress significantlyunder the forces exerted as aperson walks or wheels on it.
• Stability is the degree to which asurface remains unchanged bycontaminants or applied force sothat when the contaminant or forceis removed, the surface returns to itsoriginal condition. A stable surfacewould not be significantly alteredby a person walking or maneuveringa wheelchair on it.
14C H A P T E R
14-7
Ch
ap
ter 14. S
ha
red U
se Pa
th D
esign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
• Slip resistance is based on thefrictional force necessary to permit aperson to ambulate without slipping.A slip resistant surface does notallow a shoe heel, wheelchair tires,or a crutch tip to slip whenambulating on the surface.
Shared-use paths should have a firmand stable surface. When a person walksor wheels across a surface that is not firmand stable, energy that would otherwisecause forward motion instead deformsor displaces the surface or is lost throughslipping. Asphalt and concrete are firmand stable in all conditions. Other shared-
with a surface that is slip resistant duringtypical weather conditions. A slip-resistantsurface reduces the possibility of a person’sshoes, crutch tips, or tires sliding acrossthe surface. The U.S. Access BoardTechnical Bulletin #4 addresses slipresistance in further detail (U.S. AccessBoard, 1994a).
14.4.3 Changes in level
Changes in level are defined as themaximum vertical change between twoadjacent surfaces. Examples of changesin level that may be seen on shared-usepaths include uneven transitions fromthe shared-use path surface to a bridge orwalkway, cracks caused by freezing andthawing, or a sudden change in the naturalground level (often caused by earthquakesor nearby trees).
Although changes in level arenot desirable for people with mobilityimpairments, they are most harmfulto bicyclists and inline skaters. Abruptchanges in level can cause pedestrians totrip and fall. The risk is particularly acute
Figure 14-7. Oftentimes, surfacemaintenance issues are addressed insmall segments rather than resurfacingthe entire path. Improperly recompactedtrenching can contribute to loss ofcontrol and cause the wheelchair toflip over backwards.
Figure 14-8. Vertical changes in level on shared usepaths should not exceed 6 mm (0.25 in). A bevel shouldbe applied to changes in level between 6 mm (0.25 in)and 13 mm (0.5 in).
use path materials, such ascrushed limestone, are alsofirm and stable under mostconditions. If a more naturalsurface is desired, syntheticbonding materials should beconsidered.
Under dry conditions, mostasphalt and concrete surfacesare fairly slip resistant. Shared-use paths should be designed
14C H A P T E R
14-8
Ch
ap
ter
14.
Sh
are
d U
se P
ath
Des
ign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
for individuals who have difficulty liftingtheir feet high up off the ground or whohave limited vision and may be unableto detect the change in level. Catching awheel on an obstacle or change in levelcan easily tip wheeled devices over asthe individual’s momentum continuesdespite the wheel having suddenlystopped. Minimizing or eliminatingchanges in level will greatly improveshared-use path safety for all users.
For shared-use paths, the followingrecommendations should be followed:
• Vertical changes in level shouldnot be incorporated in newconstruction;
• If unavoidable, small changes inlevel up to 6 mm (0.25 in) mayremain vertical and without edgetreatment;
• A beveled surface with a maximumslope of 50 percent should be addedto small level changes in levelsbetween 6 mm (0.25 in) and 13 mm(0.5 in); and
• Changes in level such as curbs thatexceed 13 mm (0.5 in) should beramped or removed.
14.4.4 Openings
Openings are spaces or holes inthe tread surface. On recreation trails,openings may occur naturally, such as acrack in a rock surface. On shared-usepaths, however, openings are usuallyconstructed, such as spaces between theplanks of a boardwalk that allow waterto drain from the surface. A grate is anexample of an opening that is a frameworkof latticed or parallel bars that preventslarge obstacles from falling through adrainage inlet but permits water andsome sediment to pass through. Anotherexample of an opening is a flangewaygap at a railroad crossing.
If at all possible, openings shouldnot be within the shared-use path surface.Openings, such as drainage grates, shouldbe located outside the shared-use pathtread. Wheelchair casters or walkers,crutch and cane tips, inline skate wheels,
14C H A P T E R
14-9
Ch
ap
ter 14. S
ha
red U
se Pa
th D
esign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
and the tires of road bicycles can getcaught in poorly placed grates or gapscreating a serious safety hazard.
When designers cannot avoid placingopenings in the shared-use path, theyemploy the following specifications:
• Opening Width — The size of theopen space should not permit a13 mm (0.5 in) diameter sphereto pass through the opening. If awider gap is unavoidable because ofexisting design constraints, it maybe acceptable to extend the width toa maximum of 19 mm (0.75 in); and
• Opening Orientation — If theopen space is elongated, it must beoriented so that the long dimensionis perpendicular to the dominantdirection of travel.
14.5 Shared-use path grade andcross slope
Steep grades and cross slopes havesignificant drawbacks for people withmobility impairments. For example, more
energy is required to traverse slopedsurfaces than level surfaces. Poweredwheelchairs use more battery power onsteep grades because the chaircompensates for the difficult terrain.Furthermore, both powered and manualwheelchairs are less stable on slopedsurfaces, particularly if wet or frozen.
14.5.1 Grade
People with mobility impairmentshave a difficult time negotiating steepgrades because of the additional effortrequired to travel over sloped surfaces.Manual wheelchair users may travel veryrapidly on downhill pathways but will besignificantly slower on uphill segments.Steep running grades are particularlydifficult for users with mobility impairmentswhen resting opportunities are not provided.Less severe grades that extend over longerdistances may tire users as much as shorter,steeper grades. In general, running gradeson shared-use paths should not exceed5 percent and the most gradual slopepossible should be used at all times.
14C H A P T E R
14-10
Ch
ap
ter
14.
Sh
are
d U
se P
ath
Des
ign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
If steeper segments are incorporatedinto the shared-use path, the total runninggrade that exceeds 8.33 percent shouldbe less than 30 percent of the total traillength. In addition, it is essential that thelengths of the steep sections are minimizedand are free of other access barriers.Negotiating a steep grade requiresconsiderable effort. Users should not berequired to exert additional energy tosimultaneously deal with other factors,such as steep cross slopes and changein vertical levels. When designingmaximum grade segments, the followingrecommendations should be used:
• 8.3 percent for a maximum of61.0 m (200 ft);
• 10 percent for a maximum of9.14 m (30 ft); and
• 12.5 percent for a maximum of3.05 m (10 ft).
Although the recommendedmaximum grades are similar to thoserecommended in the 1999 AASHTO Guidefor the Development of Bicycle Facilities,the maximum distances are significantlyshorter.
Near the top and bottom of themaximum grade segments, the gradeshould gradually transition to less than5 percent. In addition, rest intervalsshould be provided within 7.6 m (25 ft)of the top and bottom of a maximumgrade segment. Rest intervals may belocated on the shared-use path but shouldideally be located adjacent to the path forthe safety of all users (see Section 14.5.2).Well-designed rest intervals should havethe following characteristics:
• Grades that do not exceed 5 percent;
• Cross slopes on paved surfaces thatdo not exceed 2 percent and crossslopes on non-paved surfaces thatdo not exceed 5 percent;
Figure 14-9. When steep grades abruptly changeinto level landings, people who use wheelchairs and scootersare put at risk of falling forward or losing control of their device.
14C H A P T E R
14-11
Ch
ap
ter 14. S
ha
red U
se Pa
th D
esign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
• A firm and stable surface;
• A width equal to or greater than thewidth of the path segment leadingto and from the rest interval;
• A minimum length of 1.525 m(60 in); and
• A minimum change of gradeand cross slope on the segmentconnecting the rest interval withthe shared-use path.
Figure 14-10.Frequent rest areas that includebenches and wheelchair spaces providerelief from prevailing grades.
14.5.2 Rest areas
Periodic restareas are beneficialfor all shared-use pathusers, particularly forpeople with mobilityimpairments thatexpend more effortto walk than otherpedestrians. Restareas are especiallycrucial when grade orcross slope demands
increase. The frequency of rest areasshould vary depending on the terrainand intended use. For example, heavilyused shared-use paths should have morefrequent opportunities for rest. Rest areasprovide an opportunity for users to moveoff the trail, instead of remaining on thetrail to stop and rest. If a rest area is onlyprovided on one side of the trail, it shouldbe on the uphill side. Having separate restareas on both sides of the trail is preferredwhen there is a higher volume or highertraffic speed. This reduces trail users fromhaving to cross in front of other trail usersmoving in the opposite direction.
A rest area will have many of thesame characteristics as a rest interval(see Section 15.5.1.3). However theadditional space allows for moreamenities. In general, rest areas shouldhave the following design characteristics:
• Grades that do not exceed 5 percent;
• Cross slopes on paved surfaces thatdo not exceed 2 percent and crossslopes on non-paved surfaces thatdo not exceed 5 percent;
14C H A P T E R
14-12
Ch
ap
ter
14.
Sh
are
d U
se P
ath
Des
ign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
• A firm and stable surface;
• A width equal to or greater than thewidth of the trail segment leadingto and from the rest area;
• A minimum length of 1.525 m(60 in);
• A minimal change of grade andcross slope on the segmentconnecting the rest area withthe main pathway; and
• Accessible designs for amenitiessuch as benches, where provided.
Benches can be particularly importantfor people with disabilities, who may havedifficulty getting up from a seated positionon the ground. Some benches should havebackrests to provide support when resting,and at least one armrest to providesupport as the user resumes a standingposition. Accessible seating should providethe same benefits as seating for userswithout disabilities. For example, providinga wheelchair space facing away from theintended view would not be appropriate.
14.5.3 Cross slope and drainage
Severe cross slopes can make itdifficult for wheelchair users and otherpedestrians to maintain their lateralbalance because they must work againstthe force of gravity. Cross slopes can causewheelchairs to veer downhill and createproblems for individuals using crutcheswho cannot compensate for the heightdifferential that cross slopes create. Theimpacts of cross slopes are compoundedwhen combined with steep grades orsurfaces that are not firm and stable.
Cross slope can be a barrier to peoplewith mobility impairments. However,some cross slope is necessary to drainwater quickly off of shared-use paths.Designers must balance the negative effectcross slopes have on pedestrian mobilityagainst the necessity of including crossslopes to provide adequate drainage.Designers should use the minimum crossslope necessary for the shared-use path.For asphalt and concrete, a cross slopeof 2.0 percent should be adequate. Fornon-paved surfaces, such as crushed
14C H A P T E R
14-13
Ch
ap
ter 14. S
ha
red U
se Pa
th D
esign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
aggregate, the maximum recommendedcross slope is 5 percent.
14.6 Shared-use path width
The width of the shared-use path treadnot only affects pedestrian usability butalso determines the types of users who canuse the path. Factors, such as the movementpatterns of designated user groups, shouldbe considered. For example, skaters mayuse a lateral foot motion for propulsionthat is wider than the stride of mostpedestrians. In addition, shared-use
Figure 14-11.Shared-use pathsshould be designed witha minimum tread widthof 3.05 m (10 ft) withgraded areas of at least610 mm (2 ft) on eitherside of the path.
paths should be designed to accommodatehigh-speed users in both directions.
The tread of a shared-use path shouldbe at least 3.05 m (10 ft) wide. A minimumof 2.44 m (8 ft) may be used on shared-usepaths that will have limited use. Shared-use paths should also have graded areas atleast 610 mm (2 ft) on either side of thepath. On shared-use paths with heavyvolumes of users, tread width should beincreased to a range from 3.66 m to 4.27 m(12 ft to 14 ft).
14.6.1 Passing space
Generally, passing spaces are notnecessary on shared-use paths becausethe width of the shared-use path exceedsthe recommended dimensions that requirea passing space. If a shared-use path isnarrow, periodic passing spaces of at least1.525 m x 1.525 m (60 in x 60 in) shouldbe provided.
14.6.2 Protruding objects
Protruding objects are anythingthat overhangs or protrudes into the
14C H A P T E R
14-14
Ch
ap
ter
14.
Sh
are
d U
se P
ath
Des
ign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
shared-use path tread whether or not theobject touches the surface. Examples ofprotruding objects include lighting posts,poorly maintained vegetation, and signs.
People with vision impairmentswho use guide dogs for navigation areable to avoid obstacles in the pathway upto 2.030 m (80 in). Objects that protrudeinto a shared-use path but are higherthan 2.030 m (80 in) tend to go unnoticedbecause most pedestrians require less than2.030 m (80 in) of headroom. People
with vision impairments who use longwhite canes to navigate can easily detectobjects on the shared-use path that arebelow 685 mm (27 in). However, objectsthat protrude into the pathway between685 mm (27 in) and 2.030 m (80 in) aremore difficult because the cane will notalways come in contact with the objectbefore the pedestrian comes in contactwith the object.
Ideally, objects should not protrudeinto any portion of the clear tread widthof a shared-use path. If an object mustprotrude into the travel space, it shouldnot extend more than 101 mm (4 in).Furthermore, a vertical clearance of2.44 (8 ft) should be provided rather thanthe 2.030 m (80 in) needed for pedestrians,to accommodate other shared-use pathusers, such as bicyclists. On shared-usepaths where there is the potential foremergency or maintenance vehicles togain access to areas, it may be necessaryto increase the vertical clearance. Inaddition, when an underpass such as atunnel is used, 3.05 m (10 ft) of verticalclearance is recommended (Section 16.4).
Figure 14-12.Overhead branches shouldbe maintained to a heightwhich is sufficient for allexpected users of ashared-use path.
14C H A P T E R
14-15
Ch
ap
ter 14. S
ha
red U
se Pa
th D
esign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
14.7 Railings
Low forms of edge protection, suchas curbs, are not recommended on shared-use paths because of the negative impactthey have on bicyclists. If edge protectionis needed, it should take the form of arailing. The minimum railing height on ashared-use path should be 1.065 m (42 in).In some situations, it may also be beneficialto provide a gripping surface for pedestrianuse in addition to the protective railing. If
Figure 14-13. Railings onshared use paths should be
at least 1.065 m (42 in) high toprevent bicycle riders from flipping
over the top. AVOID protrusions athandlebar height.
Figure 14-14.Signs that provide objectiveinformation about shared-usepaths using simplified text andgraphics benefit all users.
a handrail is included as part of the railingdesign, it should meet the specifications inADAAG 4.26.
14.8 Signs
Signs that clearly describe the shared-use path conditions are an essentialcomponent to enhance pedestrian access.Signs should be provided in an easy tounderstand format with limited text andgraphics that are understood by all users.Providing accurate, objective informationabout actual shared-use path conditionswill allow people to assess their owninterests, experience, and skills inorder to determine whether a particularshared-use path is appropriate or providesaccess to them with their assistive devices.Providing information about the conditionof the shared-use path to users is stronglyrecommended for the following reasons:
• Users are less likely to findthemselves in unsafe situations ifthey understand the demands of theshared-use path before beginning;
14C H A P T E R
14-16
Ch
ap
ter
14.
Sh
are
d U
se P
ath
Des
ign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
• Frustration is reduced and peopleare less likely to have to turn aroundon a shared-use path because theycan identify impassible situations,such as steep grades, beforethey begin;
• Users can select shared-use pathsthat meet their skill level anddesired experience;
• The level of satisfaction increasesbecause the user is able to select ashared-use path that meets his orher expectations; and
• If more difficult conditions will beencountered, users can prepare forthe skill level and equipmentrequired.
Objective information about theshared-use path conditions (e.g., grade,cross slope, surface, width, obstacles) ispreferable to subjective difficulty ratings(e.g., easier, most difficult). Becausesubjective ratings of difficulty typically
represent the perceptions of the personmaking the assessment, the ratings cannotbe accurate or appropriate for the rangeof shared-use path users. Individuals withrespiratory or heart conditions, as well asindividuals with mobility impairments, aremore likely to have different interpretationsof shared-use path difficulty than otherusers.
A variety of information formats maybe used to convey objective shared-usepath information. The type of format shouldconform to the policy of the managementagency. Written information should alsobe provided in alternative formats, such asBraille, large print, or an audible format.For example, the text of a shared-usetrailhead sign can also be made availableon audiocassette or using a digital voicerecorder. In addition, simplified text andreliance on universal graphic symbols willprovide information to individuals withlimited reading abilities.
The type and extent of the informationprovided will vary depending on theshared-use path, environmental conditions,and expected users. It is recommended
14C H A P T E R
14-17
Ch
ap
ter 14. S
ha
red U
se Pa
th D
esign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
that the following information beobjectively measured and conveyed tothe user through appropriate informationformats:
• Shared-use path name;
• Permitted users;
• Path length;
• Change in elevation over the totallength and maximum elevationobtained;
• Average running grade andmaximum grades that will beencountered;
• Average and maximum crossslopes;
• Average tread width and minimumclear width;
• Type of surface; and
• Firmness, stability, and slipresistance of surface.
14C H A P T E R
14-18
Ch
ap
ter
14.
Sh
are
d U
se P
ath
Des
ign
SHARED USE PATH DESIGN
