HomeMy WebLinkAbout227-12 RESOLUTIONRESOLUTION NO. 227-12
A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE THE NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
RAZORBACK GREENWAY OPERATIONS AND MANAGEMENT PLAN
FOR RAZORBACK GREENWAY TRAILS WITHIN FAYETTEVILLE
WHEREAS, the City of Fayetteville has reviewed the Northwest Arkansas Razorback
Greenway Operations and Management Plan as applicable to sections of the Greenway that
extend through the City of Fayetteville's municipal jurisdiction; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of this Operations and Management Plan is to define the
maintenance, management and operation requirements associated with the Razorback Regional
Greenway facilities and lands that are located within the City of Fayetteville; and
WHEREAS, the Plan has been reviewed and approved by all City Departments that are
responsible for maintaining, managing and operating the lands and facilities of the Greenway and
other tails within Fayetteville; and
WHEREAS, Article XI Operations of Vehicles and Use of City Trails of Title VII
Traffic Code of the Code of Fayetteville regulating multi -use operations shall have precedence
and supersede if there would be any conflict with this Plan.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS:
Section 1: That the City Council of the City of Fayetteville, Arkansas hereby approves
the Northwest Arkansas Razorback Greenway Operations and Management Plan (attached as
Exhibit A) as it applies to current or future Razorback Greenway trails within the City of
Fayetteville.
Section 2: That the City Council of the City of Fayetteville, Arkansas hereby agrees that
the Northwest Arkansas Razorback Greenway Operations and Management Plan shall be used as
a guide for maintenance and management for current and future Razorback Greenway trails
within Fayetteville.
PASSED and APPROVED this 4th day of December, 2012.
APPROVED:
By:
ATTEST:
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LTU LD .lO • , Mayor
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Matt Mihalevich
Submitted By
City of Fayetteville Staff Review Form
City Council Agenda Items
and
Contracts, Leases or Agreements
12/4/2012
City Council Meeting Date
Agenda Items Only
Engineering
Division
Action Required:
Development Services
Department
Approval of an Operations and Management Plan for the sections of the Razorback Regional Greenway within the
City of Fayetteville.
N/A
Cost of this request
N/A
Account Number
N/A
Project Number
Budgeted Item
x
N/A
Category / Project Budget
N/A
N/A
Program Category / Project Name
N/A
Funds Used to Date Program / Project Category Name
N/A
N/A
Remaining Balance Fund Name
Budget Adjustment Attached
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Departme nl irector Date
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City Att°They
Finance and Internal Services Director
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Date
Date
Date
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Previous Ordinance or Resolution #
Original Contract Date:
Original Contract Number:
Received in City 1 '-' A = C4
Clerk's Office 1 %
Comments:
Revised January 15, 2009
Wtevi1e
THE CITY OF FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS
DEPARTMENT CORRESPONDENCE
ARKANSAS
www.accessfayetteville.org
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA MEMO
To: Mayor and City Council
Thru: Don Marr, Chief of Staff
Jeremy Pate, Development Services Director
Chris Brown, City Engineer VP)
From: Matt Mihalevich, Trails Coordinator""
Date: November 14, 2012
Subject: Operations and Management Plan for the Razorback Regional Greenway
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval of an Operations and Management Plan for the sections of the Razorback Regional Greenway
within the City of Fayetteville.
PROPOSAL:
To insure proper operations and management of the new 36 -mile Razorback Regional Greenway, each of the Cities
containing sections of the greenway have adopted similar versions of an Operations and Management Plan. Since
Fayetteville already operates and maintains over 20 miles of trails, the Fayetteville version of the Operations and
Management Plan has been modified to model the existing operation and maintenance procedures. The Police, Parks &
Recreation and Transportation departments have reviewed and approved the attached Operations and Management Plan.
BUDGET IMPACT:
This Operations and Management plan formalizes the existing operation and maintenance procedures of the trail system
for the Police, Parks & Recreation and Transportation departments without requesting additional funding. Current
budgets within these departments will cover the responsibilities outlined within this document.
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE THE NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
RAZORBACK GREENWAY OPERATIONS AND MANAGEMENT PLAN
FOR RAZORBACK GREENWAY TRAILS WITHIN FAYETTEVILLE
WHEREAS, the City of Fayetteville has reviewed the Northwest Arkansas Razorback
Greenway Operations and Management Plan as applicable to sections of the Greenway that
extend through the City of Fayetteville's municipal jurisdiction; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of this Operations and Management Plan is to define the
maintenance, management and operation requirements associated with the Razorback Regional
Greenway facilities and lands that are located within the City of Fayetteville; and
WHEREAS, the Plan has been reviewed and approved by all City Departments that are
responsible for maintaining, managing and operating the lands and facilities of the Greenway and
other tails within Fayetteville; and
WHEREAS, Article XI Operations of Vehicles and Use of City Trails of Title VII
Traffic Code of the Code of Fayetteville regulating multi -use operations shall have precedence
and supersede if there would be any conflict with this Plan.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS:
Section 1: That the City Council of the City of Fayetteville, Arkansas hereby approves
the Northwest Arkansas Razorback Greenway Operations and Management Plan (attached as
Exhibit A) as it applies to current or future Greenway trails within the City of Fayetteville.
Section 2: That the City Council of the City of Fayetteville, Arkansas hereby agrees that
the Northwest Arkansas Razorback Greenway Operations and Management Plan shall be used as
a guide for maintenance and management for current and future Razorback Greenway trails
within Fayetteville.
PASSED and APPROVED this 4th day of December, 2012.
APPROVED: ATTEST:
By: By:
LIONELD JORDAN, Mayor SONDRA E. SMITH, City Clerk/Treasurer
Northwest Arkansas Razorback Greenway
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Operations and
Management Plan
City of Fayetteville, Arkansas
Prepared November 2012
Adopted by the City of Fayetteville , 2012
City of Fayetteville, Arkansas
Northwest Arkansas Razorback Greenway
Operations and Management Plan
1. Overview
1.1 Project Description and Objectives
The mission of this Operations and Maintenance Plan is to promote a well-maintained,
well-groomed, safe, secure and pleasant -to -use Razorback Greenway shared -use public
trail. The Greenway corridor must be an asset to the City of Fayetteville and a good
neighbor to surrounding public and private properties, businesses and landscapes. The
standard of care and quality will be consistent across the multiple jurisdictional boundaries
of Northwest Arkansas. Fayetteville agrees to maintain the Razorback Greenway to the
regional standards defined herein.
The term operations and maintenance refers to specific day-to-day tasks as well as the
longer term remedial functions and programs performed to assure resources and facilities
of the Greenway are kept in good usable condition. This begins with sound design, durable
components, and a comprehensive management plan. In addition, community groups,
residents, business owners, developers and other stakeholders will continue to be engaged
in the long-term stewardship of the resources preserved and enhanced by the Razorback
Greenway as it extends through the City of Fayetteville.
The Razorback Greenway plan envisions a continuous multi -use, non -gas motorized
corridor accommodating bikes, pedestrians, roller -skaters, wheelchairs and other human -
propelled uses. The Greenway extends approximately 9 miles through Fayetteville, from
Lake Fayetteville Trail to Clear Creek Trail to Scull Creek Trail to Frisco Trail. to Walker
Park Trail. The Greenway corridor may include and incorporate: parks, feature areas,
plazas, open spaces, streams and wetlands, as well as cultural and interpretive elements.
1.2 The Jurisdictions and Partners
The Razorback Greenway will traverse six jurisdictions including: Bentonville; Rogers;
Lowell; Springdale; Johnson; and Fayetteville. In addition, portions of the trail will run
within, or proximate to, State of Arkansas and the United States Department of
Transportation rights-of-way. Most of the trail corridor will be off-street, though some
portions will be on -street, accommodating bicycles on the roadway and pedestrians on
sidewalks. Because the trail and the greenway corridor includes streets, streams, parks and
other spaces, multiple departments and agencies within the jurisdictions must also be
engaged; including Parks and Recreation, Transportation, Planning, Engineering, Police and
Fire/rescue agencies.
Razorback Greenway: Fayetteville 3 DRAFT - Operations and Management Plan
Razorback Regional Greenway
Fayetteville, Arkansas
9.4 Miles within the City of Fayetteville
_
_1
City of Johnson 1
4.0
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a r.
To Springdale
1
s.
0 0.5 1 2
Miles
Razorback Greenway: Fayetteville
4 DRAFT - Operations and Management Plan
While each major jurisdiction has its own operations and maintenance departments, a key
to a sustainable quality greenway over the length of the corridor will be a consistency of
standards, cooperation and coordination amongst the communities and building
enduring partnerships engaging both public and private sector leadership. While some of
the jurisdictions already have a history of existing trails and greenway management, for
others the Razorback Greenway will represent the first major trail/greenway maintenance
obligation and there will be a need for capacity building and diversification of skills and
resources to meet this challenge in those communities. This report provides guidelines and
strategies to help address this need of both coordination and capacity.
1.3 Guiding Principles of Quality/Cost-Effective Trail Management
The trail and greenway system should be viewed and maintained as a world-class public
resource. Indeed it will become infrastructure similar to the street system, park system or
utility networks serving the communities for generations to come. The following guiding
principals will help assure the preservation of a first class system:
1. Good maintenance begins with sound planning and design.
2. Foremost protect life, property and the environment.
3. Promote and maintain a quality outdoors recreation and transportation experience.
4. Maintain quality control and standards.
5. Develop a management plan that is reviewed and updated annually with tasks,
operational policies, standards, and routine and remedial maintenance goals.
6. Conduct regular inspections and keep complete records.
7. Maintain an effective, responsive public feedback system and promote public
participation.
8. Be a good neighbor to adjacent properties.
9. Operate a cost effective program with sustainable funding sources.
10. The City agrees to maintain membership on a regional committee of respective agencies
and jurisdictions that are situated along the length of the Razorback Greenway to
establish, adopt, and implement a uniform program of trail management.
The Razorback Greenway traverses three different types of environments: parkland owned
by local government, urban land that is either within public ownership or will be acquired
as public access and use easements, and private land where multi -use trail easements have
been acquired by the City for the purpose of public access. This management and
operations plan addresses lands associated with the Razorback Greenway.
The operations and management plan for the Razorback Greenway provides baseline
information for tasks that need to be undertaken by the City of Fayetteville and its project
partners. This plan recommends a series of work items and tasks that need to be
Razorback Greenway: Fayetteville 5 DRAFT - Operations and Management Plan
completed in order to maintain the Razorback Greenway Trail system as an attractive, safe,
and enjoyable amenity. The following defines key aspects of the Razorback Greenway
management, beginning with operational policies, followed by facility management, land
management, safety, security, emergency response and risk management.
2. Operations and Maintenance Functions
2.1 Overview of Functional Areas
The functional landscapes that are part of the Razorback Greenway, located within the City
of Fayetteville, are:
1) Fayetteville Trail Head
2) Lake Fayetteville Trail
3) Clear Creek Trail
4) Scull Creek Trail
5) Frisco Trail
6) Walker Park
2.2 Maintenance—Routine, Remedial and Seasonal Defined
Routine Maintenance refers to the daily/weekly/monthly regime of trail sweeping, trash
and debris removal, sign replacement, weed control, tree and shrub trimming, and other
regularly scheduled activities. Routine maintenance also includes minor repairs and
replacement such as fixing cracks and potholes or repairing a broken hand railing.
Remedial Maintenance refers to correcting significant defects as well as repairing, replacing
or restoring major components that have been destroyed, damaged, or significantly
deteriorated during the life of the project. Some items ("minor repairs") may occur on a five
to ten year cycle such as repainting, seal coating asphalt pavement or replacing signage.
Major reconstruction items will occur over a longer period or after an event such as a flood.
Examples of major reconstruction remedial maintenance include stabilization of a severely
eroded hillside, repaving a significant stretch of the trail surface, repaving a street used for
biking or replacing a footbridge. Remedial maintenance should be part of a long-term
capital improvement plan.
Longevity of Greenway
Asphalt
Facilities
10 to 20 years
Concrete
20 years +
Boardwalk
15 to 20 years
Bridge/Underpass/Tunnel
50 years +
Seasonal Maintenance—In addition to the routine and remedial categories, there are
seasonal tasks that should be performed as needed. Designated maintenance crews should
remove leaf debris, gravel and mud, etc. from all network facilities as soon as possible.
Razorback Greenway: Fayetteville 6 DRAFT - Operations and Management Plan
2.3 Components That Are Maintained
Following are the key components of the Razorback Greenway System:
• Off -Street Shared -Use Trails
■ Off -Street Side Trails
• Trail -Related Corridors (such as landscaping, vegetation and viewsheds adjacent to the trail.)
• On -Street Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities (such as bike lanes, cycle tracks and bike routes)
• Associated Natural Resource Areas (such as streams,woodlands,wetlands and other natural
and cultural resources proximate and associated with the trail)
• Trailheads and Access Points
• Trail -Related Park and Feature Areas (integral to the trail system)
• Associated Sidewalks (interconnecting with or adjacent to trails and on -street routes.)
• Associated Streetscapes
2.4 Typical operations and maintenance tasks include:
In General
• User Courtesy and Regulatory Framework/Hours of Operation
■ Conflict Reduction and Resolution
• User Safety and Risk Management
• Prompt graffiti and vandalism repair
• Herbicide Management
■ Programming and Events
■ Stewardship and Enhancement
■ Coordinate volunteer and adopt-a-trail/street activities
• Oversight and Coordination
• User/Neighboring Property Feedback and Response
Off -Street Shared -Use Trails
• Inspection
• Trail Surface Maintenance
• Sweeping
• Vegetation Management including tree and branch trimming and fallen tree removal
• Erosion Control
• Litter and Trash Removal
• Repair Trail Structures
• Fixture and Furnishings Maintenance
• Signage and Displays, Public Art
■ Lighting and signal maintenance
• Toilet Facility Service
• Remedy "Social Trails" (such as shortcuts)
■ Address Detours/Disruptions (Promptly)
• Patrol and Security Services
• Accident and Incident Data Tracking
■ User Feedback and Follow-up
Razorback Greenway: Fayetteville 7 DRAFT - Operations and Management Plan
Trail -Related Corridors and Associated Resource Conservation Areas*
• Inspection
• Vegetation Management
• Stream Channel/Riverbank Maintenance
• Litter and Trash Removal
• Pest Management
• Vegetation Management including Weeds and Invasive Plants
• Waterfowl and Hunting Regulation
• Monitor Dumping and Filling
• Fire Prevention
• Patrol and Security Services
• User Feedback and Follow-up
* The Razorback Greenway Trail corridor includes open land immediately next to, or integral
with, the trail corridor. For planning purposes this is considered to be a swath up to 30' -wide.
This open space may include stream corridors or other open landscapes. Resource
conservation areas include wetlands, riparian areas, woodlots and other open spaces that
have been set aside along the trail system.
Trail Related Park and Feature Areas
• Inspection
■ Mowing/Vegetation Management
• Fixture and Furnishings Maintenance
■ User Feedback and Follow-up
Other Management Functions
• Programming and Events
• Oversight and Coordination
Razorback Greenway: Fayetteville 8 DRAFT - Operations and Management Plan
Operations and Maintenance Tasks
Parks
Transportation
Volunteers
Mowing
X
Trail Lighting
X
Sweeping
X
Tunnel / Underpass Cleaning
X
Pest & Herbicide Management
X
Storm Debris Removal
X
Snow Removal
X
Pavement Rehabilitation
X
Center Line and Bollard Striping
X
Trail Crossing Signal Lights
X
Tree & Shrub Trimming
X
Graffiti Removal
X
Trash Pickup
X
X
Sign Maintenance
X
Trail Head Maintenance
X
• Public Art
• Bollards
• Benches
• Trash Cans
• Way Side Maps
• Water Fountains
• Dogi Pots
X
Railroad Underpass Covered
Walkway Painting
X
Fence Repair/Replacement
X
Trail Programs/Promotion
X
X
Adjacent Stream Bank Restoration
X
X
Adopt -a -trail - Trail trekkers
X
X
Razorback Greenway: Fayetteville 9 DRAFT - Operations and Management Plan
3. Razorback Greenway Access and Use
3.1 Public Access and Use
Residents and visitors shall have access to and use of the Razorback Greenway during
normal hours of operation as defined herein. All access and use is governed by City of
Fayetteville Ordinance. The use of the trail system is limited to non - gas motorized users,
including hiking, bicycling, in-line skating, running, jogging, and wheelchair use. No horses
are allowed on the Razorback Regional Greenway. The City of Fayetteville authorized
motorized vehicles used for maintenance, safety and emergency purposes are permitted to
use the pathway. The City of Fayetteville's Ordinance, Article XI, chapter 71 "Operation of
Vehicles and Use of City Trails" defines the restrictions and regulations of the Fayetteville
Trail system.
3.2 Hours of Operation
The Razorback Greenway will be operated as a non -lighted (except where the City has
installed and maintains trail lighting) linear park and recreation facility, and shall be open
for public use at all times, 365 days a year, except as specifically designated by the City of
Fayetteville.
3.3 Care and Management of the Trails
The City of Fayetteville shall be responsible for the care and upkeep of the trails and all
lands, drainage features, signage, fences, bridges, trail heads, landscape plantings and trail
amenities. This manual will govern management and operation roles and responsibilities.
It is recommended for this Manual to be periodically reviewed and updated by all parties.
3.4 Fencing and Vegetative Screening Policy
The City of Fayetteville will work with adjacent landowners on an individual basis to
determine fencing and vegetative screening requirements of the Razorback Greenway. The
care of fences and screening outside of the trail right-of-way or not on publicly owned
lands is the responsibility of the adjacent landowner.
3.5 Drainage Management Policy
The City of Fayetteville shall, within its rights-of-way and easement corridors, maintain all
drainage channels, ditches and streams that bisect or intersect with the Razorback
Greenway and shall ensure that all of these drainages are free flowing and unimpeded.
Management of drainage channels and structures shall include the removal of vegetation,
trash and debris that would serve to block the flow of surface waters.
4. Trail Lands and Facility Management Policy
The Razorback Greenway should be classified under this agreement as a multi -use trail and
will be maintained in a manner that is consistent with best maintenance practices of all
trails within the City of Fayetteville.
Razorback Greenway: Fayetteville 10 DRAFT - Operations and Management Plan
Greenway maintenance shall include the removal of all debris, trash, litter, obnoxious and
unsafe human -made structures, vegetation and other foreign matter. Trail heads, points of
public access, rest areas, and other activity areas shall be maintained in a clean and usable
condition. The primary concern for trail maintenance shall always be public safety.
All trail facilities shall be maintained in a safe and usable manner during hours of operation.
Rough edges, severe bumps or depressions, cracked or uneven pavement, gullies, rills and
washed out tread surface shall be repaired as soon as possible. Volunteer vegetation
occurring in the trail tread should be removed in such a manner so that the trail surface is
maintained as a continuous, even and clean surface.
5. Land Management
Parkland that is owned by the City of Fayetteville and used for Razorback Greenway, shall
be governed by park and recreation management and operations policies, procedures and
programs. Other public rights-of-way and private property that is accessed and used for the
Greenway as part of a greenway easement shall be maintained in a condition that promotes
safety and security for users and adjacent property owners.
Vegetation within the trail corridor should be managed to promote safety, serve as habitat
for wildlife, buffer public use from private property, enhance water quality and preserve
the unique aesthetic values of the natural landscape. Removal of native vegetation should
be done with clear purpose and discretion. The objective in controlling growth of
vegetation shall be to maintain clear and open lines of sight along the trail at all times, at
intersections with roadways and driveways, and along roadways. Vegetation removal
within the trail development zone should be accomplished to eliminate potential hazards
that could occur from natural growth.
To promote safe use of the trail, all vegetation should be clear-cut to a minimum distance of
3 feet from the edge of the trail tread. Selective clearing of vegetation should be conducted,
in cooperation with appropriate management agents, within a zone that is defined as being
between three to ten feet from the edge of the pathway. At any point along the trail, a user
should have an unobstructed view, along the centerline of the pathway, 250 feet ahead and
behind his/her position, except where the terrain, existing structures, large trees or trail
curvature is a limiting factor.
Removal or installation of vegetation within the trail right-of-way by an individual or
agency other than the City of Fayetteville or its designee, is deemed unlawful and subject to
fines and/or prosecution.
5.1 Accurate and Organized Record Keeping
Good record-keeping techniques are essential to a comprehensive operations and
maintenance program, particularly when multiple jurisdictions are involved. This
information can be used to eliminate overlap or gaps in maintenance services provided,
identify levels of use, and prioritize management needs. Handheld digital devices and
Razorback Greenway: Fayetteville
11 DRAFT - Operations and Management Plan
applications with GPS capability carried by field inspectors and maintenance personal may
help expedite and facilitate a more effective record keeping system where data is fed into a
central source—accessible on the Web not only locally but by the other jurisdictions along
the entire length of the Razorback Greenway. The record keeping template could include:
o Schedule of routine (and remedial) maintenance tasks
o Inspection reports
o List of daily activities
o Observed routine and remedial maintenance items and issues
o Hazards, incidents, safety issues observed and action taken
o Prioritization of remedial maintenance projects
o User and adjacent properties input (complaints, comments, suggestions, etc.) and follow-
up
o Annual maintenance budgets and costs
o Projected costs for subsequent years (short term, medium term, and long-term)
o Internal working database for existing, planned, or proposed projects for each system—
greenway, off-street, on -street, bicycle, and pedestrian
6. Safety and Security
6.1 Security and Public Safety, Risk Management and Liability Considerations
Promoting safety and security of trail users and the security of adjacent properties should
be the foremost objective of this operations and management plan.
The City of Fayetteville should work in cooperation with other local government agencies
to develop and implement a safety and security program for the Razorback Greenway. This
program should consist of well-defined safety and security policies; the identification of
trail management, law enforcement, emergency and fire protection policies; and a system
that offers timely response to the residents and visitors for issues or problems related to
safety and security. Important components of the safety and security program may include:
1) Establishment of a safety committee and/or coordinator,
2) Preparation of a pathway safety manual,
3) Establishment of user rules and regulations,
4) Development of trail emergency procedures,
5) Preparation of a safety checklist for the pathway,
6) Preparation of a pathway -user response form,
Razorback Greenway: Fayetteville 12 DRAFT - Operations and Management Plan
7) A system for trail related incident reporting and analysis,
8) Regular maintenance and inspection programs,
9) Site and facility development and review,
10) Public information programs,
11) Employee training programs for safety and emergency response,
and
12) Ongoing research and evaluation of program objectives.
Key considerations in promoting public safety and security may include:
• Have good, current, data—Implement a data base management system, a crime tracking
system, with police for tracking the specific locations and circumstances of all incidents,
such as accidents, crime and vandalism, and create a follow-up plan to address any major,
re -occurring problems that develop.
• Monitor the condition of facilities—Schedule and document frequent inspections to
determine the amount of use, location, age, type of construction, and condition of railings,
bridges, trail surfaces, signage, etc. Evaluate and remove all obstacles or objects that
could impede facility usage such as debris, rumble strips, etc. and provide solutions such
as alternative routing, removal of obstacle, etc. Follow-up with the appropriate corrective
measures in a timely manner.
• Preventative maintenance—Identify potential safety problems such as a missing curve
or stop sign, a damaged trail surface, a missing railing, leaf litter, snow and ice build-ups
(especially hidden ice and snow), flash flood issue, storm water drainage and/or erosion
issues. Important to check for these after events like storms or construction along the trail
corridor.
• Safety and security features though planning and design—This includes adhering to
state -of -the -standards such as the ASSHTO Guide to the Development of Bicycle
Facilities, The Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devises, ADA, OSHA, etc. It also
includes incorporating good lines of sight, trimming vegetation and other measures to
avoid hiding places and other defense -through -design techniques to help reduce crime
and accidents.
• Multi -disciplinary plan review—All proposed plans and construction drawings should
be circulated amongst the various engaged departments and staff including engineering,
transportation, parks and recreation, and police and fire/rescue, including key field staff.
• User courtesy and conflict reduction—Posting signs, equipping patrol persons, using
brochures and Website to educated public on trail etiquette including bicycle yield,
equestrian courtesies, dog on leash and safe practices (See "conflict reduction" below).
• Wayfinding and location identification—This should include, street signs at cross
streets readily visible from the trail and "mile markers" located at least every 1/4 mile
giving the location based on a north to south or west to east numbering staring at a single
"point zero" such as a major cross street and running the entire length of the trail across
jurisdictional line.
• Patrol and enforcement—This might be a multi -jurisdictional patrol with wireless
communication capability and first aid training.
• Protecting adjacent properties Working with adjacent land owners, tenants, and
businesses to assure the trail is a good neighbor. This may include (where appropriate),
security barriers, do not trespass signage, and communication with impacted neighbors.
Razorback Greenway: Fayetteville 13 DRAFT - Operations and Management Plan
• Medical emergencies and rescue, response and access—Working with police and
fire/rescue for optimal emergency response including design for rescue and vehicle (to
accommodate up to 6.5 tons) access, incident reporting by location, and location
identification.
• Address system—Have in place and "address system" such as mile markers to identify
locations for all off-road greenway facilities. On -road facilities should make use of the
existing street names and adjacent property addresses. Each local emergency response
office/unit should have an up-to-date map of all City greenway, bicycle, and pedestrian
facilities.
• Surveillance Technologies—Webcams and similar video technology may be
advantageous to position solar powered wireless "webcams" that transmit visual images
of the trail to a publicly accessible Website increasing the number of "eyes" on the trail.
The City of Fayetteville will work towards the implementation of these goals and guidelines
as future budget opportunities become available.
6.2 Conflict Reduction
User conflicts are bound to occur along the trail especially as the trail system becomes
increasingly popular and more crowded. Planning, designing and managing ahead of the
curve can help reduce conflicts and promote a safer, more enjoyable trail experience. Steps
to promote conflict reduction include:
• Anticipate issues—Including reckless and unsafe behavior; incompatible uses;
trespassing; disturbances and adverse environmental impacts. Respond to illegal or
disturbing activity quickly.
• Consider diverse user goals—Recognize the different goals of different users, such as
walkers and bicyclists, and separate where feasible.
• Educate—Provide user education through signage, patrol, volunteers, brochures, and
media. Promote trail etiquette and techniques such as educating bicyclists and hikers.
• Enforce—Post user courtesy signs and speed limits for bicyclists. Cite (where allowed
by law) and if necessary ticket reckless behavior including excessive bicycle speeds, dogs
on leash, etc.
• Anticipate the need for adequate capacity—Provide adequate trail mileage and bicycle,
pedestrian, and greenway acreage to accommodate user populations.
• Solicit input from user groups—Provide contact information to report problems and
respond promptly and effectively to complaints, concerns, or suggestions.
• Monitor problems—Track, document, and log problem areas and address problems
through design and management.
6.3 Shared -Use Trail User Rules and Regulations (Trail Ordinance)
The City of Fayetteville's Ordinance, Article XI, chapter 71 "Operation of Vehicles and Use of
City Trails" defines the restrictions and regulations of the Fayetteville Trail system. The
following rules and regulations further define the use on the Razorback Regional Greenway.
These following rules should be displayed in brochures and on information signs
throughout the pathway.
Razorback Greenway: Fayetteville 14 DRAFT - Operations and Management Plan
1) Be Courteous: All trail users, including bicyclists, joggers, and walkers should be
respectful of other users regardless of their mode of travel, speed or level of skill.
Respect the privacy of adjacent landowners.
2) Keep Right: Always stay to the right as you use the path. The exception to this rule
occurs when you need to pass another user and should occur only when the centerline
is dashed.
3) Pass on the Left: Pass others going in your direction on their left and give an audible
warning. Look ahead and behind to make sure that your lane is clear before you pull
out and around the other user. Pass with ample separation. Do not move back to the
right until you have safely gained distance and speed on the other user.
4) Give Audible Signal When Passing: All users should give a clear warning signal before
passing. This signal may be produced by voice, bell or soft horn. Voice signals might
include "Passing on the Left!" or "Cyclist on the left!" Always be courteous when
providing the audible signal -- profanity is unwarranted and unappreciated.
5) Be Predictable: Travel in a consistent and predictable manner. Always look behind
before changing position on the trail regardless of your mode of travel.
6) Control Your Bicycle: Inattention, even for a second, can cause disaster —always stay
alert! Maintain a safe and legal speed at all times.
7) Don't Block the Trail: When in a group, including your pets, use no more than half the
pathway so as not to block the flow of other users. If users approach your group from
both directions, form a single line or stop and move to the far right edge of the path to
allow safe passage by these users.
8) Yield When Entering or Crossing Trails: When entering or crossing a path at
uncontrolled intersections, yield to traffic already using the other path.
9) The Use of Lights: When using the trail during periods of low visibility each cyclist
should be equipped with proper lights. Cyclists should have a white light that is
visible from 500 feet to the front, and a red or amber light that is visible from 500 feet
to the rear. Other path users should use white lights (bright flashlights) visible 250
feet to the front, and wear light or reflective clothing.
10) Don't Use this Path Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs: It is illegal to use this
path if you have consumed alcohol in excess of the statutory limits, or if you have
consumed illegal drugs. Persons who use a prescribed medication should check with
their doctor or pharmacist to ensure that it will not impair their ability to safely
operate a bicycle.
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11) Clean Up Your Litter: Leave no Trace! Please keep this path clean and neat for other
users to enjoy. Do not leave glass, paper, cans or other debris on or near the path.
Please clean up after your pets. Pack out what you bring in —and remember always
to recycle your trash.
12) Keep Pets on Leashes: All pets must be kept on a secure and tethered leash no longer
than 3 feet in length. Pet owners are responsible for removing pet waste promptly.
13) Use the Buddy System: Always use the path system with a friend!
14) Vegetation Removal: It is illegal to remove vegetation of any type, size, or species from
the pathway. Please contact the City of Fayetteville should you have concerns about
noxious weeds, poisonous vegetation, dying or dead vegetation or other concerns
about vegetation growth in the pathway.
15) Share the Path! Always exercise due care and caution when using the pathway!
6.5 Police Patrol and Emergency Response System
In order to provide effective patrol and emergency response to the needs of trail users and
adjacent property owners, the Communities of Northwest Arkansas should develop a
specific patrol and emergency response plan for the Razorback Greenway. This plan
should define a cooperative law enforcement strategy for the trail based on the capabilities
of different agencies and services typically required for the facility. The trail will go
through numerous phases of development before completion. All phases should illustrate:
points of access to the pathway; approved design details for making these access points
safe, secure, and accessible to law enforcement officials.
6.6 Emergency Response Plan
The City of Fayetteville should define an emergency response plan in conjunction with
appropriate local police, fire and paramedical units in order to define which agencies
should respond to 911 calls, and provides easy -to -understand routing plans and access
points for emergency vehicles. Local hospitals should be notified of these routes so that
they may also be familiar with the size and scope of the project. The entire pathway system
should be designed and developed to support a minimum gross vehicle weight of 6 tons to
allow emergency vehicle access.
7. Risk Management and Liability
The design, development, management and operation of the Razorback Greenway must be
carefully and accurately executed in order to provide a resource that protects the health,
welfare, and safety of the public. The City of Fayetteville has adopted the Fayetteville
Alternative Transportation and Trail Master Plan that includes the following:
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1) A complete maintenance program that provides the appropriate duty or level of care to
greenway users,
2) A risk management plan that appropriately covers all aspects of the trail, and
3) A comprehensive working knowledge of public use laws.
Public use of the Razorback Greenway should be covered under existing City of Fayetteville
policies for the use of park and public spaces. City of Fayetteville is charged with the care of
the Razorback Greenway and should exercise reasonable care in the managing all
Greenway facilities to reduce hazardous, public nuisance and life threatening situations.
8. Anticipated Needs Administrative Considerations and Costs
8.1 Coordinating a Level of Excellence
Existing functions, capacities, trail maintenance experience and structure differ from
jurisdiction to jurisdiction just as priorities and emphasis on existing streets, parks and
drainage maintenance departments differ. To assure the Razorback Greenway sustains a
level of excellence over the long term, it is important to have an agreed-upon, effective
multi -jurisdictional structure. To that end, we are assuming that, while the City of
Fayetteville is directly responsible for maintaining its respective greenway
segments—to overall standards—there is specific method for cooperative oversight and
resource sharing that transcends jurisdictional and local agency boundaries.
This could include having:
o A Trail Ranger Patrol—(Trail Trekker) This consists of a bicycle -mounted volunteer that
routinely rides the Razorback Greenway providing regular inspection and reporting,
minor clean-up and repairs, assisting trail users directions, fixing flats, etc. and serving as
ambassadors of the program. It would be ideal to select or provide rangers with first aid
and CPR training. Rangers would hold no official capacity for enforcement unless also
employed as local law enforcement agents.
Departmental Liaisons—The City of Fayetteville will designate the Trails Coordinator to
coordinate construction standards such as assuring that the Razorback Greenway is built,
to the standards defined in this O&M Plan.
o Shared Equipment—City of Fayetteville maintenance staff should have access to a work
vehicle such as a pick-up truck to haul materials, visit work sites, etc. In certain
circumstances, Trail Trekkers may also have access to wireless communication devices
(i.e. handheld radios or cell phones), bicycles and bike trailers.
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