Trail System-CS 950624MEMORANDUM
June 24, 1995
TO: Rick Wieland, Parks Planner
FROM: Clay Phillips, Assistant City Manager /Fire Chief
SUBJECT: Comments on Hike and Bike Trail Master Plan
The following comments are being made following our meeting with
the consultant on the above referenced project. Most of the
comments were mentioned during the meeting. However, a brief
provided below.
summary is
The first item of concern deals with trail access in remote
areas. It is somewhat: unclear as to how Fire, EMS and Police
personnel will access the trail in remote areas particularly
along waterways. This is obviously a concern regarding our
ability to respond emergency personnel to a location where a
fire, injury or medical emergency may occur. Similar concerns
exist regarding vandalism and crime prevention efforts. Some
thought should be given concerning how we can access the trail
system without requiring our apparatus to back out of the trail
system.
The second issue deals with our concerns when bicycle traffic is
mixed with motor vehicle traffic. Specifically, the
intersections, mid -block crossings and onroad trails raise
questions. Several onroad trails are included in the master plan
that utilize current roads without providing any improvements to
the roads. While cyclists currently use these roadways, we will
be representing the roadways to the public as safe bicycle
routes. In turn, bicycle traffic will increase. There appears to
be some added liability toward the city if accident rates also
increases on these "safe" routes. Mid -block crossings and
intersections also pose some problems particularly if
signalization is used instead of stop signs. Confusion will
exist between motor vehicles making turning movements and
cyclists regarding who has the right -of -way. Cyclists entering
an intersection at 15 - -20 miles per hour will have little time to
react to the motor vehicle turning right into their path.
The issues discussed summarize the primary safety concerns I have
regarding the trail system. It is my opinion that some thought
should be given to each. Other staff members have similar and
additional concerns. Each of us look forward to assisting you in
any way we can to provide a safe, user friendly trail system.
Please let me know if you need any additional information.
cc: Jim Witt, City Manager FORWARDED TO
MAYOR AND CO T CIL
DATE O'