2015 Corridor Analysis Of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail in Northern Virginia

Transcription

1 2015 Corridor Analysis Of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail in Northern Virginia 0

2 Acknowledgements The Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC) thanks the following individuals for their contributions to this report: Donald Briggs, Superintendent,Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, National Park Service; Ursula Lemanski, Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program, National Park Service; Mark Novak, Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services; Debbie Andrews of Prince William County Department of Parks and Recreation; and Members of the Potomac Heritage Trail Association. The report is an NVRC staff product, supported with funds provided through a cooperative agreement with the National Park Service National Capital Region (Task Agreement P14AC01704). Any assessments, conclusions, or recommendations contained in this report represent the results of the NVRC staff s technical investigation and do not represent policy positions of the Northern Virginia Regional Commission unless so stated in an adopted resolution of said Commission. The views expressed in this document are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the jurisdictions, the National Park Service, or any of its sub agencies. Report prepared by: Corey Miles, Senior Environmental Planner Northern Virginia Regional Commission Debbie Spiliotopoulos, Senior Environmental Planner Northern Virginia Regional Commission Figure 1 Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Corridor 1

3 The Northern Virginia Regional Commission 2015 Commissioners Listed by Jurisdiction (as of December 2015) Commissioners are appointed by and from the governing bodies of NVRC s member localities on a population-based representation formula. Terms are normally for three years, and representatives may be reappointed. Officers are elected each June for the upcoming year beginning July 1. For more information go to County of Arlington Hon. John Vihstadt Hon. Libby Garvey County of Fairfax Hon. Sharon Bulova Hon. John C. Cook Hon. Penelope A. "Penny" Gross Hon. Pat Herrity Hon. Catherine M. Hudgins Hon. Jeffrey C. McKay Hon. Kathy Smith County of Loudoun Hon. Phyllis Randall Hon. Tony Buffington Officers of the Commission Hon. Penelope A. "Penny" Gross, Chairman Hon. Lisa C. Merkel, Vice Chairman Hon. Redella S. "Del" Pepper, Treasurer G. Mark Gibb (staff, non-voting), Executive Director Commission Members County of Prince William Hon. Peter Candland Hon. Martin E. Nohe Hon. Frank J. Principi City of Alexandria Hon. Redella S. "Del" Pepper Hon. Paul C. Smedberg City of Fairfax Hon. Scott Silverthorne City of Falls Church Hon. David Tarter City of Manassas Hon. Harry J. Parrish II City of Manassas Park Hon. Frank Jones Town of Dumfries Hon. Gerald M. Foreman II Town of Herndon Hon. Lisa C. Merkel Town of Leesburg Hon. David S. Butler Town of Purcellville Hon. Kwasi Fraser Town of Vienna Hon. Laurie A. DiRocco 2

4 Contents Acknowledgements... 1 The Northern Virginia Regional Commission... 2 About this Report Report Methodology... 2 Using the Interactive Map of the Corridor... 2 Caveats... 7 Potomac Heritage Trail Background... 7 Trail Management in Northern Virginia... 8 Land Managers in Northern Virginia... 8 Features of the Trail Corridor in Northern Virginia... 9 Table 1 Trail Progress and Populations Served Amenities Along the Northern Virginia Trail Corridor Table 2: Local Park Amenities Events on the Potomac Heritage Trail Annual PHNST Events Event Sponsors Accessibility Table 3 Trail Parking The Trail References in Local Plans Table 4 References in Local Plans The Potomac Heritage Trail in Loudoun County Figure 3 Map of Loudoun from West Virginia Border Figure 4 Map of Loudoun to Fairfax County Line Existing Parks and Amenities: Existing Easements Table 5 Loudoun Parks and Easements Table 6 Loudoun Trail Completion Projects Potomac Heritage Trail in Northern Fairfax County Figure 5 Map of Trail in Northern Fairfax County Table 8 Trail Completion Project for Northern Fairfax The Trail in Arlington County and City of Alexandria Figure 6 Map of Arlington and Alexandria Potomac Heritage Trail in Southern Fairfax County Southern Fairfax Features Figure 7 Map of Southern Fairfax County from Alexandria to Prince William Border Table 8 Southern Prince William Parks and Amenities Table 9 Southern Fairfax Trail Completion Proje... cts The Trail in Prince William County Figure 8 Prince William County from Fairfax Border Figure 9 Corridor to Stafford County Line Table 10 Prince William Corridor Trails and Amenities Table 11 Prince William County Gap Completion Projects.. 48 Appendix A Economic and Public Health Trail Benefits Appendix B Trail Funding Opportunities Appendix C Memorandum of Understanding

5 About this Report The 2015 Corridor Analysis of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail in Northern Virginia offers a regional summary of current and planned segments, amenities along the trail network, and projects that improve and eliminate specific gaps within the larger framework of the Trail network in Northern Virginia. For 2015, the maps are interactive and public, providing information on features, trail completion projects, and current 2015 Report Methodology Each section Identifies existing routes, parks and amenities, and provides information on some trail projects Some trail projects include cost estimates for completion Spurs/continuous hiking/paddling opportunities The report suggests funding sources that can be used to eliminate gaps in the trail network Route marking needs are identified, as well as existing and potential interpretive features Online component: this report offers a paper version of the online maps with all relevant information provided for both trip development and assessment of opportunities to close gaps. Developed for land managers and interested members of the public to understand the scope of the Potomac Heritage Trail amenities. This corridor analysis supports the new feature with an overview of the Trail network, benefits of multiuse trails, and funding opportunities for completing trail gaps. Please note that the information used in this report represents a snapshot of conditions and status of the Trail network in Northern Virginia: circumstances, costs and specific alignments are subject to change. in Northern Virginia--the connections, benefits and gaps. The report provides funding opportunities and timelines. Descriptions of the corridor and trail segments geographically by County from Loudoun County in the North to Prince William County in the South. Trail projects are identified by local jurisdictions and with input from National Park Service. Unlike the 2012 report, this corridor analysis is comprised of text and an interactive online map, so that the user can better understand existing trail elements in context with trail gaps that require alternatives or completion. The PHNST Interactive map is located at. Using the Interactive Map of the Corridor The core effort of the 2015 corridor analysis produced a public online, interactive map found at. The online tool offers users the ability to zoom in and out and offers specific, detailed parks and corridor gaps information also summarized in the corridor analysis report. Park resource 2

6 features provide size, trails, amenities, land manager, and connections for each park. Black points represent trail completion projects and offer details on project scope, planning status, and trail connections. This graphical online component has two connected purposes for land managers and other users: 1) existing segments offer the ability to plan routes and regions to promote; and 2) trail completion projects offer information and a visual immediacy for completing trail segments. Caveats This report reflects the efforts of NVRC staff and spatial and project information is a snapshot of the corridor in 2015 and subject to change. Online information will be updated as new data become available. The Trail network in southern Fairfax County is currently in a state of development, subject to changes based upon plans and commitments by various land managers. Funding information found in Appendix B was developed in November Congress has since passed and the Presdient has enacted a new transportation bill to replace MAP 21. This bill, referred to as the "Fixing America s Surface Transportation Act" (FAST Act), will have a number of elements different than those posted. For more information, go to Potomac Heritage Trail Background The Potomac River is an iconic symbol of the diverse history and natural environment of the United States and the Potomac Heritage Trail celebrates this by connecting communities to natural areas, scenic vistas, historic landmarks, and Potomac River public access points. The Trail also advances the goals of the Virginia Outdoors Plan Congress authorized the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail in 1983, under the National Trails System Act of 1968 (Public Law , creating an opportunity to connect trail users to the history, culture and natural beauty of the Potomac River corridor. The Potomac Heritage Trail corridor includes numerous jurisdictions between the mouth of the Potomac River in Virginia and Maryland and the Allegheny Highlands in western Pennsylvania. To date, 862 miles of existing and planned trails have been recognized as segments of the Trail network; various segments are managed by a variety of agencies and organizations. The National Park Service is responsible for administration of the federal interest in the Trail network, fulfilling roles that include coordination between and among agencies and partner organizations; planning; interpretation; executing agreements for management of Trail segments; 7

7 administration of the official Trail marker; and assistance to other government agencies, landowners, interest groups, and individuals. Various government and private entities own and manage lands for national trails. Management responsibilities often include inventorying of resources and mapping, planning and development of trail segments or sites, compliance, provision of appropriate public access, site interpretation, trail maintenance, route marking, resource preservation and protection, view-shed protection, and management of visitor use. And volunteers certainly play substantial roles. Trail Management in Northern Virginia The Trail network in Northern Virginia is a braided network embracing portions of four counties, two cities and two towns, and involves coordination of fourteen separate land managers representing federal, state, regional, and local ownership. In October 2014, the aforementioned land managers, the National Park Service, and NVRC signed a memorandum of understanding to formalize coordination, completion, and promotion of Trail segments in Northern Virginia (Appendix C). Primary Contacts in Northern Virginia Carrie Sanders, City of Alexandria Transportation and Environmental Services Elizabeth Cronauer, Fairfax County Park Authority Adam Lind, Fairfax County Department of Transportation William Ference, Town of Leesburg Department of Parks and Recreation Mark Novak, Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Community Service Kirstyn Jovanovich, Town of Occoquan Debbie Andrews, Prince William County Park Authority Dan Iglhaut, Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority Debbie Spiliotopoulos, Northern Virginia Regional Commission Karen Lambey, Leesylvania State Park Jess Lowry, Mason Neck State Park Daffney Pitchford, Potomac River Complex National Wildlife Refuge Zach Reichold, Meadowood Special Recreation Management Area, Bureau of Land Management Brent O Neill, George Washington Memorial Parkway George Liffert, Prince William Forest Park Donald Briggs, Superintendent, Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, National Park Service Figure 2 Northern Virginia Region 8

8 Features of the Trail Corridor in Northern Virginia The Potomac River is an iconic symbol of the diverse history and natural environment of the United States and the Potomac Heritage Trail celebrates this by connecting communities to natural areas, scenic vistas, historic landmarks, and Potomac River public access points. The Trail also advances the goals of the Virginia Outdoors Plan Trail Benefits to the Growing Population of Northern Virginia The Trail corridor in Northern Virginia is a combination of natural footpaths and hard surface sidewalks or roads. The population of the Northern Virginia region was 2,325,903, up 3.1 percent from the 2010 U.S. Census, representing comprising approximately 28.4 percent of Virginia s total population. Northern Virginia continues to grow at a rate of ~3 percent per year. To put this in perspective, almost one quarter of the entire population of Virginia lives within five miles of the trail. To promote the use of the trail and appreciation of points of interest along the trail, the local jurisdictions have invested in the following amenities. The distance from Harpers Ferry, West Virginia to the Stafford/Prince William County boundary encompassing the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail is estimated to be 116 miles when preferred alignments are complete. Table 1 summarizes the trail progress, the parks, and the population served. Almost one quarter of the entire population of Virginia lives within five miles of the Trail. 2,325,903 14, Resident Population served by the trail network Acres of open space and parkland linked by trail network Miles of trail existing or planned Local parks enhanced by trail network 9

9 Table 1 Trail Progress and Populations Served Jurisdiction Miles of Trail Complete (2011) Miles of Trail Complete (2015) Miles of Trail Planned or in Progress (2015) Residential Population Loudoun ,708 Fairfax ,118,884 Prince William ,636 Arlington ,302 Alexandria ,230 Total Miles NOVA = 2,302,760 VA = 8,326,289 Amenities Along the Northern Virginia Trail Corridor Parks along the trail corridor in Northern Virginia range from urban parks with multi-use trails to quiet footpaths that trace the steps of Native Americans and Civil War soldiers. Trail users can follow history, enjoy connections to longer cycling, hiking, or paddling routes, or enjoy their local outdoors. Table 1 offers a list of amenities available along the trail in each jurisdiction. 10

10 Table 2: Local Park Amenities Jurisdiction Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead # of Parks Loudoun Fairfax Prince William Arlington /Alexandria Total Events on the Potomac Heritage Trail From small hikes to ultra-marathons, there are events to suit a variety of interests held every year along the Potomac Heritage Trail. Annual PHNST Events Jan. 1: First Day Hike (Leesylvania State Park) Two mile, New Year s Day hike April: The North Face Endurance Challenge (Algonkian Regional Park) Two day, 50-kilometer race with varying terrain. Race starts in Sterling and goes through Great Falls Park November: Potomac Heritage Trail 50 km (Woodley Park) Starting and ending in DC, this event goes along the Virginia side of the Potomac River 11

11 Event Sponsors Several organizations hold regular events on the PHNST. Check their websites for the latest information on upcoming events. Potomac Heritage Trail Association: Prince William Trails & Stream Coalition: Sierra Club Potomac Region Outings: Virginia Happy Trails Running Club: Accessibility In addition to making significant investments in the user experience of the trail, local jurisdictions have made significant progress administering accessibility to trails and transit access. The following Metro and VRE stations offer trail access, in addition to many local bus stops. Table 3 Trail Parking Jurisdiction Parking Lots with Access to the Trail Loudoun 7 Fairfax 21 Prince William 9 Arlington and Alexandria 9 Total 49 12

12 The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail References in Local Plans Table 4 References in Local Plans Jurisdiction Plan Loudoun Amended 2013: Section 10. The County will seek to complete its portion of the Potomac Heritage Trail through public and private efforts as proactively coordinated with County resources. Section 3: The County designates priority trails to include: Potomac Heritage Trail The County will seek through public purchase, proffer, density transfer, donation or open-space easement, the preservation of greenways and the development of trails. Priorities for acquisition and/or development are: Potomac Heritage Trail Fairfax Fairfax countywide trails plan adopted October Prince William Prince William County Trails Plan Adopted Arlington Arlington County Public Spaces Master Plan, currently under review, last adopted 2005.p. 49: The Federal government also contributes significantly to the preservation of public spaces within Arlington County, primarily along the Potomac River. The two largest federal public spaces are the George Washington Memorial Parkway, and the Arlington National Cemetery. Several sites within George Washington Memorial Parkway which were acquired in the 1930 s that are located within Arlington County include sections of the Mount Vernon Trail, the Marine Corps War Memorial, Roaches Run Waterfowl Sanctuary, and sections of the Potomac Heritage Trail. 13

13 Jurisdiction Plan Alexandria 2002 Open Space Master Plan (part of the Citywide Master Plan) p.6: Alexandria strategic master plan for recreation parks: Alexandria also references the Potomac Heritage Trail for the city s project page for the Mount Vernon Trail at East Abingdon improvements In a previous citywide bikeway map, Alexandria mentioned the Potomac Heritage Trail on the cover side (below), but on the latest edition it is not included: 14

14 The Potomac Heritage Trail in Loudoun County and the City of Leesburg As The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail traverses southeastward from Harper s Ferry West Virginia, it enters Loudoun County on the Virginia side of the Potomac near White s Ferry. Fifteen miles of the trail corridor was dedicated in 2006 as a linear park in Loudoun County, from Keep Loudoun Beautiful Park on Goose Creek, to Seneca Rocks on the Fairfax County line. The trail corridor in Loudoun County can be characterized in two distinct geographic areas - the corridor southeast of the Town of Leesburg and the corridor northwest of Leesburg. In the County east of Leesburg, significant portions of the trail have been established on mostly public parklands and significant progress has been made to secure easements and proffers from the remaining private landowners. In the western part of the County, the trail corridor consists entirely of private lands along the Potomac River (73 private parcels have been identified in the corridor) resulting in more gaps that are contingent upon securing easements. However, it is important that plans be developed, and an alignment agreed upon in the western corridor to ensure that the corridor is preserved for future construction of the PHNST. Construction of the trail in eastern Loudoun represents an excellent opportunity to extend the PHNST from Great Falls National Historic Park to Leesburg. Obstacles within this portion involve routing the trail through the Broad Run Farms and Potomac Farms subdivisions. With this goal in mind, the following priorities have been identified to facilitate the construction of the PHNST in Loudoun County. Loudoun County, though containing fewer completed segments than many Northern Virginia jurisdictions, has actively addressed gaps and priorities through regular meetings of a multiagency group of committed county staff, citizen representatives, volunteers, the National Park Service, and the Northern Virginia Regional Commission. As a result, this section provides more detail than other sections in the report. Loudoun remains the fastest growing county in Virginia, increasing from 142,712 in the 2000 to 312,311 in In the past five years, Loudoun County has added ~50,000 residents, the largest number of any jurisdiction in the state. Since 2000, Loudoun has averaged almost 14,000 residents per year. Though the rate has slowed somewhat, Loudoun s increased population increases demand for outdoor recreation and trails, as well as increased for transit and walkability. According to the last Virginia Outdoors Plan survey, 82 percent of respondents indicated walking for pleasure. 15

15 Figure 3 Map of Loudoun from West Virginia Border to Town of Leesburg 16

16 Figure 4 Map of Loudoun from Town of Leesburg to Fairfax County Line 17

17 Existing Parks and Amenities: Existing Easements To promote the use of the trail and appreciation of points of interest along the trail, Loudoun County, the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority, and the National Park Service have invested in the following amenities. The information can also be viewed spatially at the following link with more detail on specific trail and park information and amenities Table 5 Loudoun Parks and Easements Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead Algonkian Regional Park NVRPA Large regional park with a golf course and mini golf course, a boat launch, fishing, and picnic shelters. Also the location of Volcano Island, a waterpark complex. /park/algonkian/ 838 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Ball s Buff Battlefield Regional Park NVRPA Location of the Civil War Battle of Ball s Buff and one of the smallest National Cemeteries in the country. Offers free battlefield tours through the woodland trails. park/ball_s_bluff 223 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Bles Park Loudoun County Parks and Recreatio n Park with sports fields and a playground, as well as scenic wetlands. ov/facilities/facility/d etails/bles-park Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 18

18 Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead Edward's Landing Park Town of Leesburg Parks and Recreatio n Thirty-two acre community park with picnic shelter and tables. rtments/parksrecreation/townparks#edwardslanding 32 Y Y Y Elizabeth Mills Riverfront Park Loudoun County Parks and Recreatio n Location of the historic Elizabeth Mills canal lock system and Kephart Bridge Landing, where you can canoe or fish in the Potomac River. ov/facilities/facility/d etails/elizabeth-mills- Riverfront-Park Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Horsepen Run Preserve Countrysid e Homeown ers Associatio n The Countryside community in Loudoun County was completed in Horsepen Run is 370 acres of undeveloped land that was donated by the developer of the Countryside community. Now Horsepen Run is a protected wetland preserve that has several different trails with the main trail leading to the Potomac River. e- va.com/indey.php?opti on=com_content&task= view&id=36&itemid= Y Y Y Y Y Keep Loudoun Beautiful Park Loudoun County Parks and Recreatio n Riverfront park with canoe access, fishing, and picnic areas. Home to the Historic Goose Creek truss bridge and Goose Creek, a designated State Scenic River. ov/facilities/facility/d etails/ Y Y Y Y Y 19

19 Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead Red Rock Wilderness Overlook NVRPA Panoramic views of the Potomac, several Civil War era buildings and six nature trails make up this regional park. park/red_rock_widerne ss_overlook 67 Y Y Y White s Ford Regional Park NVRPA Park opened in 2014 on the banks of the Potomac River just north of Leesburg. Features a canoe and kayak launch, trails and scenic nature. Was the location where the Confederate Army crossed into Maryland on their way to the Battle of Antietam during the Civil War. park/whites_ford/cont ent/home 295 Y Y Y Y 20

20 Table 6 Loudoun Trail Completion Projects Location Length (ft) Managed By Needs (as of Oct. 2015) Issue/Comments Connection to other continuous hiking or paddling opportunities Cost Estimate to complete the project and Long Term Funding Strategy Amenities Horse Pen Run Bridge Crossing at Countryside 90 LCDPRCS Engineering SOW completed 2010; April 2011 cost estimate $95,110. Project requires a realignment and coordination with the Countryside HOA. It may be better to offer a fairweather crossing and provide another crossing upstream. An existing bridge exists upstream. Fair weather crossing several hundred yards up over Sugarland Run will close the gap. Algonkian Park Signage needed Askegren Easement LCDPRCS No crossing, a trail continuation. Project requires 12/4/14- Landowner made contact with PRCS- may be interested in future; 12/17/14 -PRCS to maintain contact with landowner- target date /25/15- follow up needed This project, in conjunction with Moran Smith and Youngs cliff will be completed when Moran Smith is available for complete alignment. Canoe/kayak resting spot. Trail development needed Trail building materials, wayfinding for trail and on river for landing spot. Moran-Smith Easement LCDPRCS Moran Smith is awaiting EPA signoff for access. Development of trail is in combination with Askregen Trail building materials, wayfinding for when trail is built. Youngs Cliff Road Trail along Broad Run and under Route 7 connecting to Tollhouse. High priority. This project connects to Sanitation authority easement. Broad Run, under Rt 7 to Tollhouse trailhead. Farther upstream to Pacific Blvd facilities. Design costs, trail costs, potential purchase of land to connect Youngs Cliff and Sanitation easement. 21

21 Location Length (ft) Managed By Needs (as of Oct. 2015) Issue/Comments Connection to other continuous hiking or paddling opportunities Cost Estimate to complete the project and Long Term Funding Strategy Amenities Sanitation Authority Easement Loudoun Trans LCPS to contact re easement, crossing for connection will offer longer-term improvement. high priority Loudoun Water to Criminal Justice academy. Water access for Broad Run, Potomac, and farther north to Pacific Blvd and W&OD. Broad Run Bridge at Bles Park 220+ LCDPRCS Connecting Bles Park to Broad Run Farms. Loudoun County performing cost estimate. Bridge may not be necessary if CJA easement approved Medium priority, proffered to park by developer. Fair weather crossing with concrete stepping-stones possible, bridge cost was estimated as $ M Pacific Blvd. offers a crossing farther upstream. Connect Broad Run to Potomac and W&OD trail parking, launch NOVA Criminal Justice Academy Easement LCDPRCS meeting between LCPR and owner on easement 9/26/13 In process. Trail building required trail building and materials, wayfinding wayfinding Goose Creek Bridge at Keep Loudoun Beautiful Park LCDPRCS High Priority: Redesign or rehabilitate Keep Loudoun beautiful bridge over Goose Creek. See transportation enhancement application for background. VDOT comment: federal grant 10 years ago, lost funds. Line item for 6-year plan. No longer a project/state/fed involvement. Look for grant funding, federal match opportunities- Feature as highlighted project in corridor analysis. Cost estimate $200,000. Cost estimate for bridge, looking at structural/ permitting costs associated. Look for private support, present to park board Parking, picnic, fire ring, boat launch. 22

22 Location Length (ft) Managed By Needs (as of Oct. 2015) Issue/Comments Connection to other continuous hiking or paddling opportunities Cost Estimate to complete the project and Long Term Funding Strategy Amenities Elizabeth Mills Riverfront Park Trail Bridges at Lansdowne LCDPRCS High Priority: Requires two bridge crossings. Need to avoid use of Lansdowne Golf Course bridges; execute task agreement NPS- LCDPRCS to obtain cost estimates-jones to pursue bridge costs Estimate from tectonics for prefabricated bridges that can be carried in and built onsite without heavy equipment. ~100,000 for Techtonics approximate. Need better costs for permitting, helical supports, structural eng. Potential RTF grant? Private support? Horse Pen Run Bridge Crossing at Countryside 90 LCDPRCS Engineering SOW completed 2010; April 2011 cost estimate $95,110. Project requires a realignment and coordination with the Countryside HOA. It may be better to offer a fair-weather crossing and provide another crossing upstream. An existing bridge exists upstream. Fair weather crossing several hundred yards up over Sugarland Run will close the gap. Algonkian Park Signage needed 23

23 Potomac Heritage Trail in Northern Fairfax County Seneca Regional Park, Fairfax County Park Authority s Riverbend Park, and Great Falls National Park preserve the historic, forested landscape found along the Potomac. Most of Fairfax County s portion of the Potomac Heritage Trail makes use of stream valley parks. The trail connects with the W&OD regional trail and the Fairfax Cross County Trail. The information can also be viewed spatially at the following link with more detail on specific trail and park information and amenities 11e5-bcc7-0ef b/map. Figure 5 Map of Trail in Northern Fairfax County 24

24 Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead Great Falls National Park NPS Contains the Great Falls waterfall and Mather Gorge. Along with beautiful views, Great Falls Park hosts many activities including, boating, climbing, fishing, and hiking. Connection to CCT. fa/index.htm Grea t Falls Nati onal Park Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Riverbend Park Fairfax County Park Authority More than 10 miles of trails on more than 400 acres. Includes visitor center, barbeque pits, small boat access, boat rentals, and fishing. nty.gov/parks/riverben d-park/ River bend Park Y Y Y Y Y Y Scotts Run Nature Preserve Fairfax County Park Authority One of only a few nature preserves in Fairfax County. Includes eight hiking trails. nty.gov/parks/scottsru n/ Scot ts Run Natu re Pres erve Y Y Seneca Falls Park NVRPA Location of the channel that serves as the remains of George Washington s Patowmack Canal. Many trails to explore. park/seneca/content/h ome Sene ca Falls Park Y Y Y 25

25 Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead Turkey Run Park NPS (as part of the George Washingto n Memorial Parkway) Park featuring the Potomac Gorge ecosystem and Claude Moore Colonial Farm, a living history museum that depicts the life on a Virginia farm, circa Picnic tables, restrooms, and water fountains. wmp/planyourvisit/turk eyrun.htm Turk ey Run Park Y Y Y Y Y Y Fort Hunt National Park NPS (as part of the George Washingto n Memorial Parkway) Spanish American War-era batteries and grassy picnic areas once part of Mt. Vernon now used for picnicking, jogging, softball & more. Parking, restrooms wmp/planyourvisit/fort hunt.htm Fort Hunt Nati onal Park Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Fort Marcy Park NPS (as part of the George Washingto n Memorial Parkway) Built by the early United States Army Corps of Engineers, Fort Marcy Park features some of the best-preserved examples of landscapes of the Civil War, including earthwork walls, trenches, rifle pits, and parade ground. wmp/planyourvisit/fort marcy.htm Fort Marc y Park Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 26

26 Table 8 Trail Completion Project for Northern Fairfax Location Length (ft) Managed By Description Scott's Run Nature Preserve to Great Falls Park ~ 12,000 Fairfax County See NVRC/FFX County feasibility study for a trail facility along Georgetown Pike; note Madeira School proffered easement along Georgetown Pike corridor. Need to identify any facility on Georgetown Pike. 27

27 Potomac Heritage Trail in Arlington County and City of Alexandria The trail in Arlington County and Alexandria follows the Mount Vernon trail and George Washington Memorial Parkway. The terrain is quite hilly until the trail passes the fall line near Key Bridge. From Key Bridge to Mount Vernon, the trail aligns with the Potomac as part of the Mount Vernon Trail. The trail, located across the Potomac from Washington DC, offers views of the river and monuments. Urban multi-use, mostly paved. Many opportunities for continuous cycling, jogging, hiking or paddling on spur trails. This trail segment is very popular with cyclists. Even though the trail crosses an urban area, some parts are quiet paths through wooded areas. A new connection is the Potomac Yard Park and trail. This new multi-use trail from Potomac Yard to Braddock Road Metro station was developed as part of the new Potomac Yard Park. The trail provides a useful connection between the new residences and shops opening in Potomac Yard and Old Town. Several Metrorail stations are located within close proximity to the trail. The most convenient stations are Rosslyn (near the north end of the trail) Arlington Cemetery, Reagan National Airport, Potomac Yard and Braddock Road. There are several trail linkages in this section that provide additional hiking or cycling opportunities. The trails are; Pimmit Run Trail in Fort Marcy, Chain Bridge to C&O Canal and Capital Crescent Trail, Gulf Branch Trail spur will take you to Gulf Branch Nature Center, Donaldson Run Trail, Windy Run Park Trail, Mount Vernon Trail, Four Mile Run Trail, W&OD Trail, and Custis Trail. Prominent Heritage and Cultural Resources also abound in this region such as Fort Marcey, Old Town Alexandria, Jones Point Lighthouse, and elements of the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Trail improvement opportunities from Fort Marcey to Jones Point This section of the trail is complete with no major gaps; however, there are route marking and graphic identity needs and opportunities to improve the trail experience through Old Town Alexandria. Identify the Mount Vernon trail as being a part of the PHNST network through graphic identity markings and interpretive signs at various key access points and trailheads. Since the area is popular with cyclists, there are opportunities to enhance this experience with mile markers, bike racks or bike share stations. Connections to other local and regional trail and bikeway systems should be actively sought in order to provide alternatives to automobile access to this portion of the trail. Closely monitor the Old Town Waterfront Redevelopment process to ensure that a pedestrian safe and continuous alignment of the trail is maintained during and after construction. 28

28 There is another opportunity to create a connection to Huntley Meadows Park which is a rich, natural and historical wetland of over 1,500 acres. It harbors a nationally significant historic house, majestic forests, wildflowerspeckled meadows and vast wetlands bursting with life. Huntley Meadows is well known as a prime birding spot, with over 200 species identified in the park. Figure 6 Map of Trial in Arlington County and City of Alexandria 29

29 Table 7 Arlington and Alexandria Parks and Amenities Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead Potomac Overlook Regional Park NVRPA Woodland, trails, educational gardens, a small picnic area and a Nature Center. park/potomac_overlook 67 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Arlington Memorial Bridge and Avenue, Arlington Ridge Park NPS (as part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway) Contains United States Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial) Statue honoring U.S. marines in World War II, depicting the iconic scene from Iwo Jima from 1945 and Netherlands Carillon. ultural_landscapes/snp / html 27.5 Y Y Y Y Arlington National Cemetery Departmen t of the Army Arlington National Cemetery and Arboretum is the final resting place for more than 400,000 active duty service members, veterans and their families. Welcome Center with maps, information services (to include grave locations), kiosks for accessing ANC Explorer, a bookstore, restrooms and water fountains, exhibit s and emetery.mil/ 624 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 30

30 Feature Daingerfield Island Fort C.F. Smith Park Fort Hunt National Park Land Manager Description Link NPS (as part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway) Arlington County Parks and Recreation NPS (as part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway) displays that tell the story of Arlington National Cemetery and its significance to the nation. Connection to Custis Trail Water, restrooms, food, parking. Bike and boat rentals 19-acre park with The Hendry House, a restored 20th century mansion, preserve. Spanish American War-era batteries and grassy picnic areas once part of Mt. Vernon now used for picnicking, jogging, softball & more. Parking, restrooms va.us/locations/fort-cfsmith-park/ wmp/planyourvisit/fort hunt.htm Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead 106 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 19 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Founders Park Alexandria Dept. of Parks Waterfront park in Old Town, near the shops and restaurants of King Street, the Alexandria Marina and the Torpedo Factory. Multi-use trail, ava.gov/recreation/inf o/default.aspy?id=1228 6#Founders 4.5 Y 31

31 Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead volleyball, picnic. No parking or restrooms Gravelly Point NPS (as part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway) Waterfront park known for its up-close views of planes taking off & landing at Reagan Airport. Parking, water access, major trailhead for PHNST. wmp/indey.htm Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Jones Point Park NPS (as part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway) Site of an 1800s lighthouse, original D.C. Boundary Stone, interpretive trail, 2 playgrounds & sports fields. Parking, restrooms, water, playground, water access, canoe launch. wmp/planyourvisit/jon espoint.htm Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Oronoco Bay Park Alexandria Dept. of Parks 5-acre waterfront park with scenic views. Event space, parking, picnic areas, and multi-use trails Oronoco Park has many festivals and is often rented for events. ava.gov/recreation/inf o/default.aspy?id= Y Y Potomac Yards Soccer Fields Alexandria Dept. of Parks Linear park that has opened in phases since ADA accessible picnic tables and pathways, special events area ava.gov/recreation/inf 24 Y Y Y Y Y Y 32

32 Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead with outdoor stage, athletic fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, volleyball courts, picnic area, interactive fountain. The City of Alexandria has built a new multi-use trail from Potomac Yard to Braddock. New Potomac Yard Metro Station planned to open in 2017 o/default.aspy?id= Roaches Run Waterfowl Sanctuary NPS (as part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway) This is a popular spot for observing wintering waterfowl. During summer, osprey, green heron, red-winged blackbird, and mallard are common. In addition, summer vegetation along the lakeshore is alive with dragonflies and damselflies. Also part of the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries Birding and Wildlife Trail. ia.gov/vbwt/site.asp?tr ail=1&loop=cgf&site=c GF03 Y Y Theodore Roosevelt Island Park (island is accessed from Virginia but NPS (as part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway) Wild 91-acre tract purchased and named for Roosevelt in Two-mile loop that includes a half-mile boardwalk section. Parking, restrooms, water, hiking, water access. is/planyourvisit/trails.h tm 91 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 33

33 Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead is actually located in DC) Waterfront Park Alexandria Dept. of Parks 1.37 with boat docking, open lawn space, riverfront seating, and walking trails ava.gov/recreation/inf o/default.aspy?id=1228 6#Founders Y Windy Run Park Arlington County Parks and Recreation Small open space park with limited parking, a stream and nature paths. PHNST is marked in the park. va.us/locations/windyrun-park/ 14 Y Y Y Y Fort Bennett Park and Palisades Trail Arlington County Parks and Recreation 11-acre city park & green space with a nature trail & a historic covered springhouse. va.us/locations/fortbennett-park-palisadestrail/ 11 Y Y Y 34

34 Potomac Heritage Trail in Southern Fairfax County Southern Fairfax Features From Jones Point South to Fort Belvoir, the PHNST follows the Mount Vernon trail and George Washington Memorial Parkway. Some segments are part of pre-existing Mount Vernon Trail. Bus services are widely available along this route. There are a number of prominent historical and cultural resources in this section including Mount Vernon Estate, Grist Mill Park and Distillery, Woodlawn Plantation, the former Lorton prison, and Gunston Hall. The trail in this section is a connection between large tracts of undeveloped land in the Mason Neck peninsula. Table 15 lists all the parks and amenities in this area. The information can also be viewed spatially at the following link with more detail on specific trail and park information and amenities There are several important road improvement projects taking place or planned to take place in this area of the trail as well. The Route 1 Corridor Improvement project that is being led by Fairfax County may provide continuous bike and pedestrian paths along the corridor as a paved multi-use trail that is adjacent to the roadway to provide access to the transit services along the Richmond Highway Corridor. These plans increase the potential for an alignment between the Woodlawn area and Fort Belvoir and Pohick Bay Regional Park. It is possible that certain sections will be set back slightly from the road with a vegetated buffer of about 30 feet and provide the trail user with a quieter off road experience. These plans are subject to amendments so it is important to stay informed of the progress of this plan and its potential impacts to the trail. The link to the plan is here: a4/mtvernon-richmondhighway.pdf 35

35 Figure 7 Map of Southern Fairfax County from Alexandria to Prince William Border 36

36 Table 8 Southern Prince William Parks and Amenities Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead Laurel Hill Park Fairfax County Park Authority Laurel Hill Park, which was once the property of the Lorton Prison and is quite historical as the prison was established around Whether you are visiting the playground area, ball fields or their disc golf, the trails take you all around this historical landmark and you can browse around some of the original structures. Other than being well known for previously being the Lorton Prison in the early 1900 s, this park is also well known for their 10 mile walking/hiking trail ounty.gov/parks/laur elhill/ 3,200 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Mason Neck State Park Virginia Departme nt of Conservati on and Recreatio n 1,814-acre park on the Pohick Bay Peninsula, which includes the Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge. In addition to having a small boat launch, guided canoe trips, picnic areas, and a playground, Mason Neck is known as one of the best places to spot bald eagles. nia.gov/stateparks/masonneck.shtml#general_i nformation Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 37

37 Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead Occoquan Regional Park NVRPA 400 of recreational space along the Occoquan River, featuring water trails and linkages between the PHNST and the Fairfax Cross- County Trail. Also includes boat tours, sports fields, and food services. rg/park/occoquan Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Pohick Bay Regional Park NVRPA Home of the Gunston Hall Museum, as well as scenic views, one of the largest outdoor freeform pools on the east coast, an amphitheater, and a golf course. The park also includes lodging, a small boat launch, and boat rentals. g/park/pohick_bay 1,002 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge USFWS The first national wildlife refuge established specifically for the protection of the bald eagle. /refuge/mason_neck / 2,227 Y Y Y Y Y Y 38

38 Table 9 Southern Fairfax Trail Completion Projects Location Length Land Manager Description Steps to Eliminate Gaps Funding Woodlawn to Grist Mill Park 7,500 Fairfax County DOT/VDOT; Mount Vernon Ladies Association Along Mount Vernon Memorial Highway. Ensure continued connections with planned/existing trail improvements. Complete multi-use trail facility along Mount Vernon Memorial Highway between Grist Mill Park - Woodlawn Historic District (includes GW Distillery & Grist Mill & Route 1/Richmond Highway). Includes bridge over Dogue Creek; see FHWA study (2004); see FHWA Mulligan Road/Route 1 plan. April 2011 study estimates project cost $1.36 million for completing work. These improvements may take place as part of Route 1 corridor improvement Woodlawn Stables, Noman Cole Trail to Cook Inlet Trail PHTA citizens group identified Mt Vernon Highway and crosswalk along Route 1 near Baptist Church Property for trail access to planned army museum Execute agreement between PHTA and US Army. Along Route 1 Fort Belvoir 20,000 U.S. Army Garrison Fort Belvoir Clarify intersections, pedestrian and trail alignments as fence design progresses. Ensure opportunities for safe bicycle / pedestrian access. Construct pedestrian & bicycle trail facilities alongside U.S. Army Garrison Fort Belvoir. OR provide access to trails in Fort Belvoir/Accotink NWR on a periodic basis. Negotiations with the Army on the alignment, fence location, and access are currently in progress. NCPC is working with Army. 39

39 Location Length Land Manager Description Steps to Eliminate Gaps Funding Old Colchestor to Mason Neck NVRPA, FCDOT, VDOT, US Army Spur: connection between planned trails within Pohick Bay Regional Park and proposed PHNST segment in USAG Fort Belvoir. Use funds obligated through NPS-NVRPA Task Agreement to conduct feasibility study. Possible water crossing. Lorton Road and Route 1, CSY/VRE and I-95 FC DOT / FCPA / VDOT Approval from VDOT for access below I-95 overpass, approval form CSY for access below/across rail line. Complete pedestrian and bicycle trail facilities between existing Trail segment at w. entrance to Noman Cole Pollution Control facility (on Route 1) - trailhead at entrance to Occoquan Regional Park Could be separate facilities for foot, bicycle and/or equestrian use (At ORP trailhead near Rte. 123, bicycle route uses roadway and pedestrian route uses footbridge into Town of Occoquan.) 40

40 The Trail in Prince William County The 2010 Census reports that Prince William County is the third most populous jurisdiction in Virginia. The current estimated population of Prince William County is 428,329 (as of June 30, 2015), which represents growth of 6.25% since April 1, Prince William County is projected to grow to 561,953 persons by 2030 according to the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments. Demand for recreation in this rapidly growing county is high. For example, in 2012, 535,729 people visited Leesylvania State Park. Leesylvania is the third most visited Virginia State Park, preceded by First Landing (1.5 million) and New River Trail (1 million). Of the five most visited Virginia State Parks, Leesylvania is the only one without a substantial overnight campground facility or cabins, and it services primarily local visitors from Prince William and surrounding counties instead of out of state/town patrons. The County has been actively working towards developing connections between an extensive network of trails, including the PHNST. A complicated process of negotiating, easements with private landowners, proffers from developers, land acquisitions, memorandums of understanding with agencies along the trail, funding and volunteer hours will continue to be necessary to get the entire trail connected and operational. Leadership comes from Prince William County Parks and Recreation, Board of Supervisors, and committed residents and trail advocates. Once completed, the planned Alignment would connect Locust Shade Park, Prince William Forest National Park, Leesylvania State Park, Metz Wetland Mitigation Bank, Featherstone National Wildlife Refuge, the Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge and Veteran's Park (Maps 17 and 18). Trail Amenities: Prince William County parks information can be viewed spatially at the following link with more detail on specific trail and park information and amenities 215, population (actual) 280, population (actual) 402,002 April 1, 2010 population (actual) 428,329 June 30, 2015 population (estimate) 494, population (forecast) 561, population (forecast) Sources: 1990, 2000, April 1, 2010 figures: U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census; June 30, 2015 estimate: Prince William Co.; forecasts: Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments 41

41 Figure 8 Corridor in Prince William County from Fairfax Border to Leesylvania State Park 42

42 Figure 9 Corridor from Leesylvania State Park to Stafford County Line 43

43 Table 10 Prince William Corridor Trails and Amenities Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead Julie J. Metz Neabsco Creek Wetlands Preserve Prince William County Department of Public Works Historic Preservation Division The Metz Wetlands Bank is a ±227 acre parcel of land that will be preserved in perpetuity by a recorded conservation easement, containing over 217 acres of created and preserved wetlands, 10 acres of upland buffers and almost 2 miles of nature trails. nt/pt/publicw orks/hp/pages /Metz- Wetlands.aspY 227 Y Y Y Y Y Y Leesylvania State Park Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation A nationally registered Historic Landmark, Leesylvania has a fishing pier, several beaches along the Potomac, picnic areas, boat rentals and launching areas, and camping. cr.virginia.gov /stateparks/leesylva nia.shtml#gen eral_informati on 543 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Locust Shade Park Prince William County Parks and Recreation Scenic park with a golf driving range, mini golf course, batting cages and an 8-acre lake. Also, the home of the 400 seat Jean C. Smith Amphitheater. wcgov.org/gov ernment/dept /park/locustsh ade/pages/def ault.aspy Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 44

44 Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead National Museum of the Marine Corps United States Marine Corps Features exhibits, which highlight significant moments in Marine History. smcmuseum.c om/indey.asp 135 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge US Fish and Wildlife Service Down the Occoquan River from Occoquan Regional Park. A large protected area made up of grasslands and marshes that serve as refuge for migratory birds. Serves as an outdoor classroom for those interested in the native habitat of the region. ws.gov/refuge /Occoquan_Ba y/visit/plan_y our_visit.html 642 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Prince William Forest Park NPS Adjacent to Marine Corps Base Quantico, Prince William Forest park is the largest protected area in the region and the largest example of the Eastern Piedmont forest. The park includes nearly 40 miles of hiking trails and a variety of camping options. 16,084 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 45

45 Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead Rippon Landing Park Prince William County Parks and Recreation A community park containing a playground and sand volleyball court. pwcgov.org/go vernment/dep t/publicworks/ hp/pages/ripp on-lodge.aspy Y Y Y Y Veterans Memorial Park Prince William County Parks and Recreation Facilities to host a range of activities, including a skate park, sports fields, a community center, outdoor pool, picnic tables. There is also a duck pond in the park. wcgov.org/gov ernment/dept /park/vetspar k/pages/defau lt.aspy Featherston e National Wildlife Refuge USFWS Public access to Featherstone National Wildlife Refuge is limited due to the railroad, though recently a nonmotorized boat landing was constructed for public use. ws.gov/refuge /Featherstone /about.html Y Y 46

46 Feature Land Manager Description Link Size (acres) Restrooms Potable Water Trail Linkages Cultural or Historic Sites Natural Area Canoe/Kayak Launch Scenic View Picnic Area Parking (off street) Camping Interpretive Panels PHNST Route Marked Visitor Center Major PHNST Trailhead Quantico National Cemetery US Department of Veteran's Affairs Quantico National Cemetery is a national cemetery in Triangle, Virginia for veterans who served in the United States Armed Forces. Adjacent to and originally part of Marine Corps Base Quantico, it was established as a national cemetery. em.va.gov/ce ms/nchp/quan tico.asp 16,084 Y Y Rippon Lodge Historic Site Prince William County Department of Public Works Historic Preservation Division Rippon Lodge is one of the oldest known homes in Prince William County. Built circa pwcgov.org/go vernment/dep t/publicworks/ hp/pages/ripp on-lodge.aspy Y Y Y Y 47

47 Table 11 Prince William County Gap Completion Projects Location Length Land Manager Description Steps to Eliminate Gaps Funding Notes Woodbridge VRE Sidewalk Gap 200' VDOT ROW 200' long gap in sidewalk along Express Dr. adjacent to Woodbridge VRE Station No action identified. VDOT is responsible for Phase 1 and 2 widening of Route 1. Currently Phase 2 is underfunded by $100 million VDOT VDOT is responsible for Phase 1 and 2 widening of Route 1. Currently phase 2 is underfunded by 100 million. Within Belmont Bay Community 1 mile PWC Parks and Recreation / developer Multi-Purpose Trail along waterfront in Belmont Bay. Construction complete but easement needs to be granted to BOCS per proffer. NA - Construction Complete Per proffer, easement will be transferred when we have a logical connection to north and south and have "security plan". Belmont Bay Community to Occoquan Bay NWR 40 (feet) Belmont Bay LLC. 40' gap between Belmont Bay trail and Occoquan Refuge boundary. Place burden upon developer upon the completion of items D and F (and possibly C). Developer should fund construction per proffer May be difficult to address if developer gets off bond. Occoquan Wildlife Refuge 1 US Fish and Wildlife Service Multi-Purpose Trail to be developed through Occoquan Refuge. 1. US Fish & Wildlife is waiting to hear back official confirmation from Ecological Services that there are no bat impacts. 2. Once confirmation is received a binder of the project will be sent to the Regional Offices by Daffny Pitchford to move forward with the approvals. PHNST CIP Account - Park Proffers This segment includes sections of trail in the refuge on both the east and west side of Transitional Housing Veterans Memorial Park to Featherstone NWR 0.54 VDOT ROW 4' wide sidewalk along Featherstone Rd. Construction won't be completed until there is approval from Featherstone NWR NA - Complete Design is completed for the crosswalk. Parks will submit plans for a VDOT Permit. Heritage Harbor Trail Easement 0.17 Heritage Harbor HOA 900' of trail to be constructed to connect Featherstone Rd. to Featherstone Refuge. 3. Design of crosswalk in process to be completed by: end of December 2015 for $36,775. Design has been completed and is under review at VDOT. Design is completed for the crosswalk, applying for VDOT Permit 4. Build once Featherstone begins construction and funding is PHNST CIP Account - Park Proffers- PWC did preliminary wetlands delineation in 12/14. No wetlands found. Parks has proposal for crosswalk - awaiting funding. 48

48 Location Length Land Manager Description Steps to Eliminate Gaps Funding Notes secured. 5. HOA has replaced their fence separating the trail from homeowners. Featherstone Refuge/ FLAP 1.08 US Fish and Wildlife Service Multi-Purpose Trail to be developed through Featherstone Refuge 1. All agreements have been signed. Parks staff meet with VDOT staff in December, to go over the process for the project, as they are administering the FLAP Grant. 2. Pacuilli and Simmons has until 5/1/2016 to have permitted plans completed. PHNST CIP Account - Park Proffers- $585,000 FLAP Grant; $120,000 County match and Developer contribution. Rippon VRE Overpass & Ramp 0.05 VRE/ Riverside Park LLC Trail to utilize VRE pedestrian overpass over RR tracks. Ramp up to train landing to be constructed by Rippon Center developer per proffers 1. Get authorization from VRE/CSY to utilize pedestrian overpass - COMPLETE. 2. Developer to build ramp up to train landing - Parks staff meeting with Richard Kieler on 1/8/16 on site to discuss Scope of Work and schedule. Proffered Highams Parcel 0.08 Higham / Cannon Trust 400' of trail to be consturcted. 1. Title Attorney- County to go to court to appoint Ms. Hingham s legal authority to grant conveyance of easement. 2. Construct trail - awaiting acquisition of easement or parcel. PHNST CIP Account - Park Proffers This could likely be done with volunteers. Without this parcel, the route of the trail will have to change dramatically. Trail in Transitional Housing and OBNWR west would not be logical. Neabsco Creek Boardwalk 2,650 PWC Parks and Recreation 3000' long boardwalk connecting Rippon Landing to Julie J Metz Wetlands Bank over Neabsco Creek near confluence with Potomac 1. PO for $173,000 issued to Lardner Klein to develop plans to 90% and add 200ft of additional boardwalk and an overlook. 2. FEMA/Flood Study/Wetland Permit application needs to be done and the Horton Parcel easement has been signed by the Rippons Landing HOA. Wetland/waters permit application was submitted to Virginia Marine Resources Commission; Phase 2 is close to New estimate for the Neabsco Boardwalk is $4,731,000. $3,000,000 in proffers to go to BOCS on 9/8/15 to fund most of the short fall, and was approved on 9/8/15. County has $1,611, set 49

49 Location Length Land Manager Description Steps to Eliminate Gaps Funding Notes 65% completed, this is the additional boardwalk and overlook that was requested; geo technical work for phase 2 is scheduled for early January; Phase 2 design must be updated before applying for Flood Permit and to complete the Floodplain impact permit application. Overall design is at 90% aside for the Boardwalk. Powells Landing Row Stub 0 PWC Parks & Recreation 120' long gap between existing sidewalk and existing trail. VDOT requests a hard surface stub when connecting to ROW sidewalks 1. Design and engineering of asphalt stub - no action at this time. 2. Construction of hard surface stub - no action at this time. None identified Transitional Housing 0.06 PWC BOCS 320' multipurpose trail to be constructed through Transitional Housing property. 1. Acquire easement over land - complete. 2. Construct trail - awaiting development of trail in Occoquan Refuge. PHNST CIP Account - Park Proffers Not logical to build this segment until trail in OBNWR is complete. Woodbridge VRE Sidewalk Gap 200' VDOT ROW 200' long gap in sidewalk along Express Dr. adjacent to Woodbridge VRE Station No action identified. VDOT is responsible for Phase 1 and 2 widening of Route 1. Currently Phase 2 is underfunded by $100 million VDOT VDOT is responsible for Phase 1 and 2 widening of Route 1. Currently phase 2 is underfunded by 100 million. Within Belmont Bay Community 1 mile PWC Parks and Recreation / developer Multi-Purpose Trail along waterfront in Belmont Bay. Construction complete but easement needs to be granted to BOCS per proffer. NA - Construction Complete Per proffer, easement will be transferred when we have a logical connection to north and south and have "security plan". Belmont Bay Community to Occoquan Bay NWR 40 (feet) Belmont Bay LLC. 40' gap between Belmont Bay trail and Occoquan Refuge boundary. Place burden upon developer upon the completion of items D and F (and possibly C). Developer should fund construction per proffer May be difficult to address if developer gets off bond. 50

50 Appendix A Economic and Public Health Trail Benefits Trail projects should be viewed as investments and productive community assets. The costs of land acquisition for trails and trail construction and maintenance are minimal when compared to the economic return on the money invested by the creation of a trails network. Beyond stormwater and other environmental benefits provided by parks and green space, trails offer a significant economic benefit (from the Virginia Outdoors Plan): In 2009, the Trust for Public land determined that properties located near parks increase in value by $100/ft2. In Virginia, $8 billion/year is spent on recreation. Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) estimates that the state park systems generate between $9.7 billion in income and 320,000 jobs in Eight million park users in Virginia generate more than $189 million in economic activity for the state. Every dollar of general funds spent on parks yields ~$11 in economic activity. Every $1 million spent on trail infrastructure creates 11 jobs, providing significant local tax revenue, from lodging and food purchases. A multi-use trail system offers tangible economic, social and environmental benefits to communities, beyond recreation and alternative transportation. A multi-use trails network can positively influence economic and community development by stimulating business creation, influencing corporate location decisions, boosting spending at local businesses and increasing property values. It can provide public health benefits and reduce medical costs by encouraging exercise, and a multi-use trail network can protect the environment. A trails network can also provide low or no-cost recreational opportunities and transportation options to the public. The economic benefits of trails have been documented by economic impact studies conducted nationwide. A National Association of Homebuilders study found that trails are the second most important community amenity that potential homeowners cite when choosing a new community. Trails were cited by 57 percent of prospective buyers in a 2004 survey by the association, ahead of public parks and outdoor pools. Additionally, the study found that trail availability outranked 16 other options including security, ball fields, golf courses, parks and access to shopping or business centers. Those homebuyer preferences translate into increased property values and enhanced tax revenue for communities that incorporate trails into planning. In a study on the impact of trails on adjacent property values in Indianapolis, researchers found that the overall impact of trails on adjacent property values was estimated at more than $140 million dollars. Trails boost spending at local businesses. Communities along trails benefit from the influx of visitors going to restaurants and other retail establishments. On longer 51

51 trails, hotels, bed and breakfasts, and outdoor outfitters benefit. Tourism and outdoor recreation-related revenues from trails come in several forms. Trails create opportunities in construction and maintenance, rentals (such as shuttle buses and guided tours), historic preservation, restaurants and lodging. In Virginia, outdoor recreation generates approximately $13.6 billion in consumer spending. Community leaders and planners are using trails as important parts of overall strategies for economic revitalization and building and strengthening local businesses. On the Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34-mile trail in southwestern Virginia, visitors spend approximately $2.5 million annually related to their recreation visits. Of this amount, non-local visitors spend about $1.2 million directly into the local economies. The Convention and Visitors Bureau in Morgantown, West Virginia, credits the 45-mile Mon River Trail for revitalizing an entire district of the city, with a reported $200 million in private investment as a direct result of the trail. Trails increase tax revenues in the communities in which they are located, often paying for their own maintenance. For example, a study of Maryland s Northern Central Rail Trail found that the state received $303,000/year in trail related tax income while paying $192,000/year in maintenance. PUBLIC HEALTH BENEFITS Since the 1970s, overweight and obesity rates have risen dramatically in the United States as physical activity rates have declined. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 2013 calculations for Virginia indicate that almost 30% of residents consider themselves obese or overweight, a risk factor for chronic disease. The CDC reports that access to parks and open space, and community design that allows residents to walk or bike to near-by destinations offers an effective way to increase physical activity and reduce obesity in both adults and youth. Medical research shows that walking can improve health. The University of Kansas Alzheimer s disease Center indicates that walkable cities/areas have positive implications for cognitive health. The study tracked 25 people with mild Alzheimer s disease and 39 older adults with cognitive impairment. The study found that those who lived in areas of where there was not an easily accessible connection or established trail network, and where fewer turns are required to navigate the streets, performed worse on baseline cognitive tests and were more likely to see declines in attention and verbal memory. Conversely, those who lived in place with higher connectivity, with more paths, trails and streets linked to each address, performed better on initial cognitive tests and saw fewer declines in attention and verbal memory. Trails provide low or no-cost recreation to families. Data gathered between 2006 and 2011 by Virginia Outdoors Plan (VOP); found that the most popular activities were walking for pleasure (82% of participating households), visiting historic sites (63.5%), visiting parks (50.6%) and visiting natural areas (50.3%). The VOP also finds that in the next five years, the two highest needs for outdoor recreation will be access to recreational waters and facilities for trail-related activities. The VOP further states that the number of facilities is often 52

52 not as important as their proximity to local populations. Many VOP survey responders reported that they are not willing to travel more than 10 to 15 minutes to access these facilities. A strong, well-maintained trails network provides localities with a positive economic impact. Closing of gaps within the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail would address the demand for activities such as hiking, biking and equine uses, and would reduce the barriers that inhibit physical activity, such as cost and lack of proximity to facilities. Appendix B Trail Funding Opportunities Transportation-Based Funding Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century The bulk of this information pertaining to funding in this report was developed in November Since then, congress has enacted a new transportation bill to replace MAP 21. This bill, referred to as the Fixing America s Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act), will have a number of elements different from those posted. For information as it develops, go to The following information summary offers some guidance on MAP 21 programs that may or may not translate into FAST Act programs. The Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP 21), includes funds for trail construction and improvements. Many programs are managed by state agencies, and in Virginia, the Commonwealth Transportation Board is responsible for selecting many projects for funding. In addition, total funds are allocated to metropolitan areas, Northern Virginia being one of them. Most grant programs require a 20 percent match and operate on a reimbursable basis (i.e., after a project is approved, the organization or agency is required to submit invoices to receive funds). The following programs that could be used to support trail projects: Transportation Alternative Program (TAP) Replaces earlier Transportation TE: delivered by transportation management areas (TMAs), $9.4 million for Activities include: 1) construction, planning, and design of on road and off road non-motorized trail facilities. 2) Construction, planning and design of infrastructure related projects that will provide safe routes for non-drivers to access daily needs. 3) Conversion and use of abandoned railroad facilities. Construction of turnouts, overlooks and viewing areas to promote the scenic and historic character of local roads. In Virginia, the application deadline is November 1. Grants range from $50,000 to $1,000, /20 match reimbursement program Eligible for States, localities, regional planning districts?, transit, natural resource, public land agencies, school districts 80/20 match 53

53 asp Safe Routes to School (SRTS) STRS are included in above grant. The purpose of this program is to improve the safety and availability of bicycle and pedestrian facilities to primary and middle school students (K-8). As with the Recreational Trails Program, state coordinators are responsible for program management; as of late 2010, though, Virginia lacks a program trainer. Deadlines for applications are usually in early/late fall. Grants range from $5,000 to $100,000. Eligible for school divisions, municipal governments, non-profits 80/20 match ies_and_programs_plan_app_for_noninfrastructure_grantsactivities_and_programs_plan_noninfrastructure_act.asp Map 21 SRTS Mini-grants Funds are direct to schools >$5,000. Only applies to within 2 miles of K-8 schools. Quick Start Mini-grants are $1,000 grants for schools that are interested in funding a small (or large) Safe Routes to School Activity. These grants are easy to apply for and are a great way to start up a Safe Routes program. Activities need to occur within 90 days from award. Semiannual cycles: August October, February April $1,000 to <$5,000 Eligible for adult supervised school groups or clubs, local governments, community nonprofits. Mini-grant-Application-Form Recreational Trails Program Managed in Virginia by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (VDCR), the program is very competitive and based on guidance from the Virginia Recreational Trails Advisory Committee. Only available to shovel ready construction projects with permitting/design complete. 30 percent motorized trails, 30 percent non-motorized, and 40 percent for multiple number of compatible recreational purposes or innovated corridor sharing (multiuse trails). Funds are provided on a reimbursable basis, may not be used for planning, and may be used for maintenance and restoration of existing trails, development or rehabilitation of trailside and trailhead facilities and linkages, acquisition of necessary easements, associated administrative costs, new trails, and educational programs. Grant deadline in early August. Project size ranges from $100,000 to $250,000. Eligible for non-profit organizations, city governments, county governments, or other government entities 80/20 match lfnd.shtml Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program (CMAQ) As with its predecessor legislation, the MAP-21 provides funding to areas in nonattainment or maintenance for 54

54 ozone, carbon monoxide, and/or particulate matter. In addition, those State that have no nonattainment or maintenance areas still receive a minimum apportionment of CMAQ funding for either air quality projects or other elements of flexible spending. Funds may be used for transportation projects likely to contribute to the attainment or maintenance of a national ambient air quality standard, with a high level of effectiveness in reducing air pollution, and that will be included in the Metropolitan Planning Organization's (MPO's) current transportation plan and transportation improvement program (TIP) or the current state transportation improvement program (STIP) in areas without an MPO. Some specific eligible activities are described below: Establishment or operation of a traffic monitoring, management, and control facility, (including advanced truck stop electrification) systems, if it contributes to attainment of an air quality standard. Projects that improve traffic flow, including projects to improve signalization, construct HOV lanes, improve intersections, add turning lanes, improve transportation systems management and operations that mitigate congestion and improve air quality, and implement ITS and other CMAQ-eligible projects, including projects to improve incident and emergency response or improve mobility, such as real-time traffic, transit, and multimodal traveler information. Purchase of integrated, interoperable emergency communications equipment. Projects that shift traffic demand to nonpeak hours or other transportation modes, increase vehicle occupancy rates, or otherwise reduce demand. Purchase of diesel retrofits or conduct of related outreach activities. Facilities serving electric or natural gas-fueled vehicles (except where this conflicts with prohibition on rest area commercialization) are explicitly eligible. Some expanded authority to use funds for transit operations. Workforce development, training, and education activities are also an eligible use of CMAQ funds. m Transportation, Community and System Preservation Program (TCSP) Administered by FHWA, TCSP provides grant funding for strategies that promote improved planning and coordination among transportation, community and system preservation plans. Program funds support improving the efficiency of the U.S. transportation system, reducing the environmental impacts of transportation and ensuring access to jobs, services, and centers of trade Virginia awards: $800,000 Walk to Downtown Vienna Initiative, TCSP funds will improve local pedestrian safety by constructing sidewalks on side streets in downtown Vienna and improve access from neighborhoods to local stores and merchants. $1,620,341 to Luray Main Street Bridge for Rehabilitation and Repair for the 78-year-old Main Street Bridge in Luray. January deadline States, metropolitan planning organizations, local governments and tribal governments are eligible Not clear if still a funded program. 55

55 Federal Lands Access Program (FLAP) Fund to improve transportation facilities that provide access to, are adjacent to, or are located within Federal lands. The Access Program supplements State and local resources for public roads, transit systems, and other transportation facilities, with an emphasis on high-use recreation sites and economic generators. Transportation planning, research, engineering, preventive maintenance, rehabilitation, restoration, construction, and reconstruction of Federal Lands located on or adjacent to, or that: provide access to a Federal land (adjacent vehicular parking areas; acquisition of necessary scenic easements and scenic or historic sites; provisions for pedestrians and bicycles; environmental mitigation in or adjacent to Federal land to improve public safety and reduce vehicle-caused wildlife mortality while maintaining habitat connectivity; construction and reconstruction of roadside rest areas, including sanitary and water facilities); Operation and maintenance of transit facilities. The Access Program is funded by contract authority from the Highway Trust Fund. Funds are subject to the overall Federal-aid obligation limitation. Funds will be allocated among the States using a new statutory formula based on road mileage, number of bridges, land area, and visitation. $250,000,000 provided annually through MAP-21. Projects must be on the state transportation improvement list, and bicycle pedestrian activities compete with road and bridge work. Twelve projects received funding in in Virginia, including two in Arlington (bikeshare and complete street conversion on Army Navy Drive), Fairfax (Old Dominion Drive/Great Falls Park), four in Prince William County (Roadway repair, Featherstone Lane, Trail construction in Prince William Forest Park and Featherstone NWR, Traffic Study near Manassas Battlefield). November deadline $250, ,000 preferred funding State and local agencies eligible Requires coordination with federal land managers 80/20 match National Scenic Byways Program A discretionary grant program, eligible uses include projects that improve bicycle and pedestrian safety along the byway corridor for designated FHWA national scenic byways. Applications for national byway status are submitted to state departments of transportation and then forwarded to FHWA in a competitive process. Virginia hosts five byways: Blue Ridge Parkway, Colonial Parkway, George Washington Memorial Parkway, Journey through Hallowed Ground Byway, and Skyline Drive. Most of the jurisdictions in Northern Virginia host scenic byways. February deadline $25,000-1,020,000 States, metropolitan planning organizations, local governments and tribal government eligible Virginia awarded 56

56 Other Virginia Grant Opportunities Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) This 50/50 matching grant program is administered by state agencies in cooperation with the National Park Service. Program funds are intended for the acquisition and development of outdoor recreation areas; trails are one priority of this program. June deadline 50/50 matching grant cities, towns, counties, Native American Tribes, regional park authorities and state agencies eligible 2014 maximum grant request amount $500,000, minimum $300,000 Total of 6 grants awarded ffaq.shtml#1 Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program The National Park Service (NPS) State and Local Assistance Division has set aside $3 million of the FY 2014 appropriations for Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) State Assistance grants for a new nationally competitive grant program called the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLPP). Develop public land for outdoor recreation purposes located within or serving jurisdictions with a population of 50,000 or more and consisting of densely settled territory. Acquisition, development or both of lands and facilities that will provide outdoor recreation opportunities to the public. Examples of eligible development projects includes sport and other playing fields, parks and picnic areas, water-based recreation facilities, such as pools and spray parks, trails, campgrounds, boating facilities, etc. Certain kinds of support facilities, such as restrooms, may also be eligible. For either project type, to be eligible, the project sponsor must possess sufficient legal title and control of the property to be assisted to ensure that it can be managed and maintained for outdoor recreation in perpetuity and otherwise remain compliant with Section 6(f)(3) of the LWCF Act. July Deadline 50/50 match $250, ,000 State and local government agencies and federally recognized Indian tribes eligible Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program (RTCA) Though not a source of funding, RTCA is a technical assistance arm of the National Park Service dedicated to helping local groups and communities preserve and develop open space, trails and greenways. RTCA is an important resource center for many trail builders in urban, rural and suburban areas. RTCA supplies a staff person with extensive experience in community-based conservation to work with a local group on a project. August 1 deadline Open to state or local agencies, tribes, nonprofit organizations, or citizen groups

57 American Hiking Society National Trails Fund Grants for hiking trails, projects must be completed in one year. December deadline $ Open to nonprofits Historic Preservation Funding Sources American Battlefield Protection Program (ABPP) Managed by the NPS primarily for conservation purposes, see for current guidelines. Site identification, documentation, planning, and interpretation. The American Battlefield Protection Program announces the awarding of 21 grants totaling $1.358 million to assist in the preservation and protection of America's significant battlefield lands. The funds will support a variety of projects at battle sites in 14 states. In 2014 $60,000 awarded for Balls Bluff in Loudoun County. This project will prepare a boundary expansion amendment of the current 76 acre National Historic Landmark at the Ball's Bluff Battlefield and National Cemetery to include approximately 2,900 acres. Deadline January 14, 2016 Eligible activities include site identification, and documentation, planning and consensus building, and interpretation Match not required but recommended No minimum, maximum $117,000 average $32,000 State, local federal, nonprofits, educational institutions eligible. see Preserve America Preserve America is a 50/50 grant program that will match non-federal funds. Administered by the NPS and focusing on education and heritage tourism, grants are awarded only to designated Preserve America communities and state historic preservation offices (SHPOs). Trails are a common recipient of Preserve America grants. Deadline 50/50 match Not currently funded States, localities, NTHP, certified local governments (most in NOVA) eligible / Save America s Treasures Save America's Treasures grants only preserve properties and sites listed in the National Register of Historic Places that are of national significance or designated as a National Historic Landmark. Focus on protecting nationally significant historic properties and museum collections. Not currently funded 50/50 match 58

58 Other Funding and Assistance Chesapeake Bay Gateways and Water Trail Program Chesapeake Bay Gateways and Water trails Network (CBGN) financial assistance awards assist projects at designated Gateways. The awards require a 1:1 match with eligible non-federal agencies. The awards assist designated Gateways in implementing high-quality public access, stewardship and interpretive and educational projects that advance Network goals: Financial assistance awards are predicated on the availability of Congressional appropriations. Public water access site development projects that advance the development of designated Gateways water trails, the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail, and/or the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail are the current funding focus. Grants from $10,000 to 250,000 November to January deadline 50/50 match Nonprofit, state and local government Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) Providing annual grants on a formula basis to local governments and states for a wide range of community planning initiatives, CDBG monies have been used for trails and trail construction. CDBG projects must be used for activities that benefit low- and moderate-income persons, prevent or eliminate slums or blight, and address community development needs having a particular urgency. programs/ Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) A program of the USDA Forest Service, UCF "provides technical, financial, research and educational services to local government, nonprofit organizations, community groups, educational institutions, and tribal governments." Trails and greenways are a key part of the program. Public Works and Economic Development Program (PWED) One of a few investment programs administered by the Economic Development Administration of the US Department of Commerce, PWED is meant to provide funding for "construction or rehabilitation of essential public infrastructure and facilities" that, among other things, can help to "redevelop Brownfield sites and provide ecoindustrial development." ml Brownfield Funding Sources Brownfield funding remediates areas contaminated from years of industrial use. Trails can benefit from federal and state funding sources available to remediate brownfield environmental pollution. The Environmental Protection Agency offers funding and financing information for brownfield properties. Many Trails have taken advantage of brownfield funding, including Rhode Island's Woonsquatucket River Greenway Project Parks list from trust for public land: lder_id=

59 Wetlands Restoration Funding Sources National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program This program offers a matching grant program designed to assist states in the "acquisition, restoration, management or enhancement of coastal wetlands." States bordering the Atlantic, Pacific, Gulf of Mexico or Great Lakes are eligible. Although trails cannot be the primary beneficiary of these funds, the program has been used to work on trail infrastructure. Corporate Wetlands Restoration Partnership Offers a source of private money for wetlands restoration, Natural Resources Conservation Service The US Department of Agriculture offers technical and financial assistance programs to restore and protect natural resources and wildlife. U.S. EPA list of federal funding sources for watershed protection. USDA Rural Information Center Guide to Funding sources e.htm Virginia Tourism Corporation VTC Marketing Leverage Program and the Cooperative Advertising Fund Program is designed to stimulate the creation of tourism marketing initiatives throughout the Commonwealth. The program supports only those marketing efforts undertaken by partnerships constituted by three or more local and regional tourism destinations, marketing organizations, museums, state and local attractions, businesses, chambers of commerce, and economic development organizations. Two tiers for funding: tier 1: Up to $5,000, maximum award of $5,000 with a 1:1 match required; tier $5,001 to $25, a 2:1 match required (two dollars from partners matched by one dollar from VTC). Applications are due by January 5. However, in order to be considered for funding, applicants must submit a letter of intent prior to August Other programs: Virginia Community Capital Virginia Office of Community Capacity Building Non- Profit Funding Search Request ing/pdfs/fundingrequestform.pdf Virginia Small Business Financing Authority Virginia Enterprise Zone Center for Community Development, Inc. 60

60 Private Resources Healthy Youth anti-obesity grants These grants include funding for trail planning. August Deadline, Smaller grants up to $60K. National Park Foundation m Grants up to $10,000 Rails to Trails Clearinghouse /indey.html American Trails Clearinghouse Resources for planning and construction, news items: Y.htmlNational Geographic Conservation Trust Grants 2.html 61

61 Appendix C Memorandum of Understanding 62

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