Trail Feasibility Study

Transcription

1 VOLUSIA COUNTY MPO CITY OF NEW SMYRNA BEACH FINAL REPORT JUNE 30, 2009 Trail Feasibility Study What s inside? 1 Introduction 2 Project Purpose & Scope 3 Physical Inventory & Assessment of Right-of- Way 4 Trail Concept Plan 5 Financial Feasibility The 2000 census figures show that, of those that commute to work a total of 4.4% walk, take public transportation or use other means. 1. Introduction The City of New Smyrna Beach, Florida has previously completed a study to review the feasibility of the New Smyrna Beach Multi-Use Trail. The proposal was submitted to the Volusia County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for review of feasibility prior to funding approval. This proposal includes the addition of a twelve (12) foot wide multi-use trail and a ten (10) foot stabilized trail for equestrian use. The trail is proposed to be constructed on land owned by the City of New Smyrna Beach Utilities Commission, and exists today as a utility transmission corridor. The multi-use trail would extend from Sugarmill Drive to the Fire Station located on Pioneer Trail (2.2 miles) and is illustrated in Figure 1. The proposal to Volusia County MPO discussed a longer trail extending from the fire station across I-95 to Pell Road. This study analyzes only the first phase, to Sugarmill Road. The phased approach is a valuable option to minimize the strain on the resources available for this type of construction. In 2000, the Volusia County MPO completed an update to its 2020 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) for the region. One of the priorities that emerged from the transportation plan was the importance of providing pedestrian and bicycle facilities as a means of expanding the travel opportunities for county residents. The 2020 LRTP also recognizes the importance of bicycle and pedestrian facilities as a tool for economic development and as an expansion of recreational activities for residents and visitors. The Volusia County Trail Plan represents approximately 76 miles of multi-use trails throughout the County. The 2020 LRTP describes the performance measures used to analyze and evaluate the need for improved or new bicycle and pedestrian facilities. The measures consider: bicycle and pedestrian injuries per million vehicle miles, connectivity of segments, proximity to attractions (such as: schools, parks, civic centers, etc.), and proximity to transit. The trail can serve as a link to the Sandspur Riding Club, where equestrian access can be provided. The club, as seen in Figure 2, is on the southwest side of the corridor, a short distance from the County Fire Station. As the trail system extends further beyond the limits of this study, both along the utility corridor and throughout the city and county, the quality of life of the residents and visitors will increase by accommodating activities such as walking, running, rollerblading, bicycling and horseback riding. This trail will provide more opportunities for recreational use as well as an alternate form of transportation throughout New Smyrna Beach. The 2000 census figures, for Volusia County, show that of those that commute to work a total of 4.8% walk, take public transportation or use other means. Providing extra transportation avenues, as well as modes, will prove beneficial especially to this group of people, as well as to others. 1 Volusia County Metropolitan Planning Organization, 2020 Long Range Transportation Plan, Chapter 5.

2 PAGE 2 Figure 1: Project Location Map

3 PAGE 3 The goal of this study is to determine the feasibility of the trail considering items such as project need, support of jurisdictional planning studies, and construction cost estimates. 2. Project Purpose & Scope The following sections provide an overview of the Scope of Work completed for this feasibility study. Study Purpose This study evaluated the eastern portion of the New Smyrna Beach Utility Commission utility corridor for use as multiuse trail right-of-way. The goal of this study is to determine the feasibility of the trail considering items such as project need, support of jurisdictional planning studies, and construction cost estimates. Physical Inventory & Assessment of Right-of- Way The New Smyrna Beach Trail Report (Summer 2002), GIS maps, and the white paper prepared by the City of New Smyrna Beach regarding this trail and the Cross Volusia Trail were reviewed to assess the physical inventory as it relates to the proposed improvements. GIS databases were utilized to create mapping for the project and were supplemented with local, municipal and county data. The Utility Commission s corridor consists of rightof-way ranging from feet and is just over seven (7) miles long, beginning northeast of the intersection of Ingam Road and State Road 44, and stretching to a point just east of North Samsula Road. The portion of the utility corridor under consideration for use in this study begins at the County Fire Station (about one (1) mile east of the eastern terminus of the corridor) and extends to Sugarmill Drive, an approximate distance of 2.2 miles. Upon review of the previously published studies, a field review and analysis was conducted of the proposed corridor. This analysis provided information that was used to make specific recommendations for construction, safety, signing, and access. Also identified were potential locations for connections to public facilities, parking areas, and connections to other facilities that are part of the bicycle and pedestrian network. New Smyrna Beach Utility Commission corridor maps and municipal land development plans were utilized to review the alignment and identify neighboring property owners. Trail Concept Plan The field analysis and mapping were used as a base for the planning of proposed construction elements. Mapping of the proposed corridors identified environmental and natural features, surrounding land uses, surrounding roads, community developments and assets, and construction element locations. The final graphics include notes, diagrams, and callouts identifying the trail, access points, trail features, mitigation efforts (if any), and enhancements to natural, cultural, and historic features. A concept plan of the trail project area was prepared and includes all of the features listed, as well as any other proposed enhancements. Financial Feasibility Detailed estimates for construction were prepared based on American Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance, Florida Department of Transportation standards for design, the City of New Smyrna Beach Standards and past construction bids for the construction of related projects.

4 PAGE 4 Figure 2: Riding Club and Bus Stops

5 PAGE 5 3. Physical Inventory & Assessment of Right-of-Way A physical inventory and assessment (via field review) for the corridor was conducted in order to document present conditions, assets, and obstacles throughout the area. Topographic and soils maps were used to supplement the field reviews. One field review was conducted to determine the conditions along the proposed corridor. The field review was conducted on August 18, The following persons attended the field review and represented the respective entities: City of New Smyrna Beach Mark Rakowski HNTB Corporation Luis Diaz, Kate Brady Based on the discussions among the participants, it was determined that the best alternative for the multi-use trail was to create a twelve (12) foot asphalt trail through the utility corridor and a 10 stabilized trail for equestrian use. A photographic inventory of the corridor is presented here to provide an understanding of the physical features of the corridor. Physical Description The corridor for the multi-use trail begins at the County Fire Station near Newcomb Street and continues west to Sugarmill Drive. The previous studies have identified that discussions have occurred leading to the possible relocation of the existing fire station facility, leaving the building available for use as a trail facility. The land on which the fire station sits includes a building and a wide expanse of undeveloped land which could be used as a trail head or provide parking access for the trail. The County Fire Station and surrounding land can be seen in Figure 3. As the utility corridor continues west, the land available for the proposed multi-use trail is approximately 100 feet wide with utility poles running generally down the centerline, similar to that of Figure 4. This corridor initially existed as the City s first railway (the old Orange City Blue Springs to New Smyrna Line). The rails have since been replaced with the addition of the utility poles. The corridor is lined with trees and various forms of native vegetation and wildlife. Grade crossings will exist along the trail as it crosses over two (2) streets, Pine Avenue and Glencoe Road. Several VOTRAN bus stops exist just south of the corridor that could create an ideal opportunity for persons wishing to access the trail without using personal transportation. The locations of the nearest bus stations are shown in Figure 2. The multi-use trail will also cross a tributary stream from Turnbull Creek. The crossing of the stream will require construction of a small bridge. The stream will also pass along the side of a private lake along the north side of the trail near Otter Boulevard. Approximately onequarter mile west of the Fire Station is Sandspur Riding Club. This equestrian facility creates an opportunity for semi-public access and a trail head for equestrian users. The other main feature of the existing corridor is the presence of a historic black cemetery, the Glencoe Geiger Cemetery. Currently, the cemetery is patrolled by city police Figure 3: County Fire Station and adjoining lot Figure 4: Typical look of utility corridor

6 PAGE 6 Previous studies, for other trails, have indicated that crime rates, vandalism, and break-ins decrease in areas adjacent to trails based on the likely presence of users of the trail system. but seems to be poorly maintained. The presence of the trail alongside this designated historic site may spur enhancements to the cemetery. The western terminus of the trail is just before Sugarmill Drive. A turnaround is provided for all uses to continue east along the trail. Approximately four (4) miles of the entire seven (7) mile utility corridor lies within the jurisdiction of the City, while the rest remains within the County jurisdiction. Although the Utilities Commission intends to eventually annex the entire corridor into the City, annexation is contingent upon the prior annexation of the parcels that abut the corridor. This may create the need for a cooperative maintenance agreement for any maintenance necessary along the trail. Many private residences exist along the length of the trail. Based on public involvement programs implemented in the 2002 study of this corridor, property owners raised concerns regarding security along the corridor. Based on the field review, the corridor is currently being used unlawfully by people with all-terrain vehicles, on foot, and on horseback. The creation of this designated trail should help to limit these uses that existed while the land was undeveloped. Previous studies, for other trails, have indicated that crime rates, vandalism, and break-ins decrease in areas adjacent to trails, based on the likely presence of users of the trail system. The New Smyrna Beach Police Department is equipped for bicycle patrol and previously has shown a willingness to provide periodic patrolling of the multiuse trail. Unlike the fears of some property owners, a trail that is designed to enhance and beautify the area will promote community and neighborhood activity that are healthy for the population. The trail will be off-limits to motorized vehicles except those providing maintenance of the system, emergency services, maintenance of the utility corridor, or those with access easements, creating a serene place for outdoor activities. Currently some property owners have access easements to their property through the utility corridor area. All easements will be respected during final design, construction, and maintenance of the trail system. Light flooding through the corridor has been a concern in the past, as noted during the field review. Proper design of the system, as well as the accompanying drainage facilities, will be necessary to ensure that flooding through the corridor and on nearby properties does not become an issue after construction of the trail system. As previously discussed, the right-of-way along the corridor, that owned by the City of New Smyrna Beach Utilities Commission ranges in width from 60 to 110 feet. The trail corridor will utilize 60 feet of this corridor including the greenspace centered about the utility poles. Fencing should be added to both sides along the length of the corridor to limit access to the trail and to prohibit access to private lands. Those private lands with easement access will have gate access through the fence.

7 PAGE 7 4. Trail Concept Plan Establishing a trail system within Volusia County will offer residents and visitors a network of recreational facilities and alternative forms of transportations. This trail will provide a connection to other proposed systems throughout New Smyrna Beach, neighboring towns and cities and throughout Volusia County. Although most often wide concrete sidewalks can serve as multi-use trails for biking, walking, rollerblading, etc., it is important for this corridor that the multi-use trial be constructed of asphalt. The trail will be used for maintenance by the Utilities Commission and will require vehicles to traverse the length. Currently the maintenance vehicles travel along dirt paths that have been created over time by the same vehicles. After construction of the trail, the amount of right-ofway for these vehicles will be limited and therefore the asphalt area can be used by the motorized vehicles using caution. Figure 5 provides the proposed typical section for this trail along with its location through the utility corridor. The multi-use trail along this corridor offers a feasible option for use by the residents and visitors to the City of New Smyrna Beach. The surrounding land uses range from urban business, agricultural, to residential throughout this portion of the utility corridor. These land uses are not in conflict with the proposed trail and the area should not present design challenges that must be overcome prior to construction. Based on the current equestrian use of the utility corridor and the close proximity to the Sandspurs Riding Club, the trail would offer the club an additional amenity for its members and an opportunity for riders to safely use the corridor for recreational activities. Figure 6 provides an overview of the topography throughout the 2.2 mile corridor for the proposed multi-use trail. The map indicates a fairly flat area throughout the corridor with some minor vertical definition which will provide a pleasing atmosphere for the trail. Figure 7 indicates the soil types present in the areas surrounding the proposed trail. This map provided a basis for any considerations given to the infrastructure in this conceptual plan. The soils should be studied in more detail upon undertaking of the design of this system. The following trail amenities are proposed along this corridor: trailheads, benches and distance marker signs. Trailheads are main access areas to the trail that typically include parking space, restroom facilities, and drinking water facilities. As mentioned previously, the County Fire Station represents a feasible and probable location for a trailhead. This location may also serve as public access with parking options available. The parking area can remain as undeveloped land with only mowing maintenance required. Benches spaced appropriately along the length of the 2.2 mile trail will afford persons the opportunity to rest, gather, and socialize along the route. Next to the benches, the City may also want to include drinking water facilities either as water fountains or water stations for users to refill their personal water containers. Restroom facilities may not be necessary during this initial phase of the utility corridor trail. The multi-use trail along this corridor offers a feasible option for use by the residents and visitors of the City of New Smyrna Beach.

8 PAGE 8 The stabilized portion of the trail for equestrian uses has previously been studied, and it was determined that the favorable configuration for construction is ten (10) feet wide to allow for horse and carriage use side-by-side. However, as the trail is completed to include the remaining five (5) miles of the corridor, it may be necessary to make these facilities available. This may be accomplished on the eastern end of the utility corridor at the County Fire Station building, if abandoned. Distance marker signs should be placed every half (1/2) mile to guide emergency services and to assist users in gauging their length of travel. The stabilized portion of the trail for equestrian uses has previously been studied, and it was determined that the favorable configuration for construction is ten (10) feet wide to allow for horse and carriage use side-by-side. The stabilization of this trail will follow the same process that the Florida Department of Transportation utilizes for the stabilization of unpaved shoulders. Figures 8 through 11 are provided for more detail of the corridor in order to convey the full scope of the project and necessary construction items. Figure 5: Proposed Typical Section

9 PAGE 9 Figure 6: Topographic Map of Corridor

10 PAGE 10 Figure 7: Soils Map of Corridor

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15 PAGE Financial Feasibility Table 1 provides a summary cost estimates for the design and construction of the multi-use trail. For the purposes of potential phasing, this cost summary has been broken down into segments for both the bicycle and pedestrian portion and the equestrian portion of the trail. A separate cost estimate of the bridge required over Turnbull Creek is also provided in Table 1. The item number and unit of measure are based on the Florida Department of Transportation Basis of Estimate manual. The unit prices are based on the average costs for each pay item as provided by the Florida Department of Transportation. The cost estimate is based on Florida Department of Transportation design for Bike Paths and Trails. The minimum construction standards call for 4 thick Portland concrete. However, for this project, as discussed previously, the pedestrian trail will be asphalt pavement. The proposed trail bridge will utilize a single 120- foot span to clear Turnbull Creek and associated wetlands. The bridge section consists of two (2) 54 deep prestressed concrete Florida I-Beams, supporting a 12-ft wide cast-in-place concrete deck. The bridge provides a 10-ft wide trail with 1-ft wide pedestrian parapets. The bridge will be founded on 18 prestressed concrete piles using a traditional pile-supported end bent substructure. As shown in Table 1, the total estimated cost for design and construction of the entire multi-use trail as detailed in the conceptual plan and discussed in this report is $1,160, The estimated cost of the bridge is $265, The estimated cost of the western portion of the multi-use trail, from Sugarmill Drive to Turnbull Creek, is $649, and the estimated cost of the eastern portion of the multi-use trail, from Turnbull Creek to the Fire Station, is $245, This project will be planned, designed and constructed with a variety of funds. The project is eligible for federal funds that will flow through the Florida Department of Transportation and will be matched by the City of New Smyrna Beach.

16 PAGE 16 Table 1: Cost Estimate PEDESTRIAN TRAIL SUGARMILL DRIVE TO TURNBULL CREEK TURNBULL CREEK TO FIRE STATION ITEM UNIT UNIT OF DESCRIPTION NUMBER PRICE MEASURE EST QTY 2009 COST 2010 COST 2011 COST 2012 COST EST QTY 2009 COST 2010 COST 2011 COST 2012 COST Mowing $46.85 AC 3.8 $ $ $ $ $67.00 $69.01 $71.08 $ Staked Silt Fence $0.69 LF 16,547.4 $11, $11, $12, $12, ,276.6 $4, $4, $4, $4, Clearing & Grubbing (18.2 acres) $4, LS 0.7 $2, $2, $3, $3, $1, $1, $1, $1, Regular Excavation $2.03 CY 6,322.7 $12, $13, $13, $14, ,398.3 $4, $5, $5, $5, Type B Stabilization $1.17 SY 12,531.6 $14, $15, $15, $16, ,753.4 $5, $5, $5, $6, Base, Optional (Group 1) $11.47 SY 12,531.6 $143, $148, $152, $157, ,753.4 $54, $56, $57, $59, Superpave Asphaltic Concrete $42.00 TN $19, $19, $20, $21, $7, $7, $7, $7, Pedestrian/Bicycle Railing (Aluminum, 42" 301 Picket Railing) $44.09 LF $6, $6, $6, $6, $2, $2, $2, $2, Patterened/Textured Pavement $ SY $15, $15, $16, $16, $5, $6, $6, $6, Fencing (Type B 220 Standard) $10.50 LF 15,858.7 $166, $171, $176, $181, ,015.4 $63, $65, $67, $69, Seeding & Mulching $0.25 SY 10,306.6 $2, $2, $2, $2, ,909.4 $ $1, $1, $1, Grass Seed (Permanent Type) $3.00 LB $1, $1, $1, $1, $ $ $ $ Mulch Material $50.00 TN 8.4 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Water for Grassing $19.57 MG $1.23 $1.27 $1.31 $ $0.47 $0.48 $0.50 $0.51 N/A Water Facilities $ EA 4 $2, $2, $2, $2, $ $ $ $ N/A Benches $ EA 4 $1, $1, $1, $1, $ $ $ $ N/A Mile Markers $ EA 4 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ SUBTOTAL BEFORE MOBILIZATION $401, $413, $425, $438, $151, $156, $161, $165, Mobilization LS 10% $40, $41, $42, $43, % $15, $15, $16, $16, SUBTOTAL BEFORE DESIGN/CONSTRUCTION/SCOPE CREEP $441, $454, $468, $482, $166, $171, $177, $182, N/A Engineering & Design LS 15% $66, $68, $70, $72, % $25, $25, $26, $27, Initial Contingency LS 5% $22, $22, $23, $24, % $8, $8, $8, $9, Scope Creep LS 20% $88, $90, $93, $96, % $33, $34, $35, $36, TOTAL COST $618, $636, $655, $675, TOTAL $233, $240, $247, $255, EQUESTRIAN TRAIL SUGARMILL DRIVE TO TURNBULL CREEK TURNBULL CREEK TO FIRE STATION ITEM UNIT UNIT OF DESCRIPTION NUMBER PRICE MEASURE EST QTY 2009 COST 2010 COST 2011 COST 2012 COST EST QTY 2009 COST 2010 COST 2011 COST 2012 COST Mowing $46.85 AC 2.7 $ $ $ $ $47.67 $49.10 $50.57 $ Clearing & Grubbing (18.2 acres) $3, LS 0.7 $2, $2, $2, $2, $ $ $ $ Type B Stabilization $1.17 SY 9,448.3 $11, $11, $11, $12, ,583.8 $4, $4, $4, $4, Seeding & Mulching $0.25 SY 17,178.7 $4, $4, $4, $4, ,516.1 $1, $1, $1, $1, Grass Seed (Permanent Type) $3.00 LB $1, $1, $2, $2, $ $ $ $ Mulch Material $50.00 TN 14.2 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Water for Grassing $19.57 MG $2.09 $2.15 $2.21 $ $0.79 $0.81 $0.84 $0.86 SUBTOTAL BEFORE MOBILIZATION $20, $20, $21, $22, $7, $7, $8, $8, Mobilization LS 10% $2, $2, $2, $2, % $ $ $ $ SUBTOTAL BEFORE DESIGN/CONSTRUCTION/SCOPE CREEP $22, $22, $23, $24, $8, $8, $8, $9, N/A Engineering & Design LS 15% $3, $3, $3, $3, % $1, $1, $1, $1, Initial Contingency LS 5% $1, $1, $1, $1, % $ $ $ $ Scope Creep LS 20% $4, $4, $4, $4, % $1, $1, $1, $1, TOTAL COST $31, $32, $33, $34, $11, $12, $12, $12, BRIDGE ITEM NUMBER DESCRIPTION UNIT PRICE UNIT OF MEASURE EST QTY 2009 COST BRIDGE OVER TURNBULL CREEK 2010 COST 2011 COST 2012 COST Class II Concrete (Superstructure) $ CY 37.8 $32, $33, $34, $35, Class II Concrete (Substructure) $ CY 10.9 $10, $10, $10, $11, Reinforcing Steel (Superstructure) $1.10 LB 7,744.4 $8, $8, $9, $9, Reinforcing Steel (Substructure) $1.12 LB 1,470.0 $1, $1, $1, $1, Prestressed Beams (FIB ") $ LF $52, $54, $56, $57, Prestressed Concrete Piling (18" Sq.) $80.00 LF $38, $39, $40, $41, Concrete Parapet $ LF $28, $29, $30, $31, SUBTOTAL BEFORE MOBILIZATION $172, $177, $183, $188, Mobilization LS 10% $17, $17, $18, $18, SUBTOTAL BEFORE DESIGN/CONSTRUCTION/SCOPE CREEP $189, $195, $201, $207, N/A Engineering & Design LS 15% $28, $29, $30, $31, Initial Contingency LS 5% $9, $9, $10, $10, Scope Creep LS 20% $37, $39, $40, $41, TOTAL COST $265, $273, $282, $290, TOTAL PROJECT COST DESCRIPTION 2009 COST 2010 COST 2011 COST 2012 COST Pedestrian Trail, Sugarmill Drive to Turnbull Creek Pedestrian Trail, Turnbull Creek to Fire Station Equestrian Trail, Sugarmill Drive to Turnbull Creek Equestrian Trail, Turnbull Creek to Fire Station Bridge over Turnbull Creek TOTAL COST Multi-Use Trail (no bridge), Sugarmill Drive to Turnbull Creek Multi-Use Trail (no bridge), Turnbull Creek to Fire Station $618, $636, $655, $675, $233, $240, $247, $255, $31, $32, $33, $34, $11, $12, $12, $12, $265, $273, $282, $290, $1,160, $1,195, $1,231, $1,268, $649, $668, $689, $709, $245, $252, $260, $268,331.59