Coalition Vision for a Model Trail Section
IV. Design and Implementation Recommendations
for Recommended Alternatives
By preserving the unique environment in RRMSEA, and the
desires of most trail users, there is an added benefit to the town: an
opportunity to develop this unique section of trail into an environmental education
showcase of biodiversity for children and adults. The Coalition members have expertise and experience in these
areas, and offer to partner with the Town in this exciting endeavor.
The Coalition does not have the engineering capability of a
design firm, so rather than creating eye-catching graphics, we would like to
put some key design ideas in writing. We would like to work with the engineer, and its designers,
to create graphic representations of the following design suggestions.
- S
 ignage
delineating the Railroad Mills Special Environmental Area. These signs would be at
both the north and the south ends of RRMSEA, and will inform users that they
are entering the special environmental area. At the north end, by Probst Road, a sign would be located
just inside the current gate. At
the south end the recommended location is where the trail, continuing north
from the culvert, leaves the woodland and enters the area where there are open
wetlands on both sides. - Slow
bicycle speeds are recommended in RRMSEA, to encourage people to travel
slowly and appreciate the special environmental features of the area.
- Interpretive
kiosks or signage, located at wider areas at 2 or 3 locations, at
appropriate intervals within the 3000’ area. These would also serve as passing places. We have specific locations to
recommend. It is important to note that besides being able to safely pass
on the grass, as is done today, these areas would provide additional,
wider, locations for safe passing within the 3000’ stretch.
- Rustic
benches to be sited at the kiosks.
- Consideration
may be given to additional passing spaces – precise location to be determined at site to avoid direct or
indirect impact to threatened or other significant species.
- Mowing
the linear meadow will be assisted by Coalition volunteers – with
attention to timing and protection of significant species.
- Assistance
with environmentally friendly techniques for invasive species management
by the Coalition.
- The
use, and modification of our website, www.saveauburntrail.org into an even more outstanding
educational resource for the Victor schools and community. The website is a source of
excellent information on local flora, fauna, and geology.
- The
Coalition offers to lead interpretive walks for the town and its
organizations.
- The
Coalition offers to work with the Victor schools and teachers, to help
develop the use of the area for field studies, in coordination with
grade-level curricula. A
great deal of published research recognizes the broad benefits to children
of safe, hands-on learning experiences in natural environments. Because of the biodiversity, and
the unique ‘nature up close’ experience, this section of trail can offer
children a tremendous experiential learning opportunity.
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