Revised Edition of Trail Master Plan
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| Map of 2021 Richmond City Trails Plan - Inventory. Located in the Richmond City Trail Master Plan, 2023, pg. 45 |
The Richmond City Trail Master Plan has created its first draft. Richmond City started working with Cache County and Bear River Association of Governments to create a city-wide Trails Master Plan
In March of 2021, they began the process of a Trail Master Plan by having Richmond Citizens take a 5-10 minute survey. Finally, after 2.5 years of hard work, the first draft was released by the Richmond City official Facebook on Aug 18, 2023.
They made the post asking citizens of Richmond to comment on the plan. The plan is 105 pages long. We hope to publish some of the key features of the Trail Master Plan. You can find the original document here.
Acknowledgments
City Council Member Terry Wierenga and City Administrator Jeremy Kimpton have been working with Zac Covington of the Bear River Association of Governments, Carly Lansche of the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation, Lauren Ryan and Tayli Hillyard of the Cache County Government, and many Richmond City residents as a Steering Committee for the Master Plan.
Over 20 listed individuals and organizations have helped to make the plan a reality, including the Logan Ranger District of the United States Forest Service, UDOT, Cache County Development Services, Cache County Public Works, Smithfield City, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, Pepperidge Farms, and Bike Utah.
Executive Summary
Richmond is now experiencing increased demand for outdoor recreation and trails as it continues to grow. Activities such as road cycling, hunting, fishing, backpacking, skiing, snowboarding, Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) riding, and horseback riding are popular, and the city's parks and sidewalks are enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.
To address the growing interest in outdoor recreation, the Richmond Trail Master Plan has been developed to guide investments in sidewalk connectivity, trail development, and other amenities, to connect the community, ensure safe routes, and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors.
The Richmond Trail Master Plan is a guide for the community's investment in trails, safe connections, and outdoor recreation. Richmond City is experiencing rapid growth, with a 2.28% annual increase in population, becoming younger and more prosperous. Traffic volume has risen along key streets, and a paved trail, the 300 East Pathway was built in 2019, increasing interest in trails. To address concerns about trails, the plan addresses questions about funding, maintenance, landowner cooperation, liability, and trail use.
Trails offer numerous benefits, including enhancing quality of life by promoting physical activity, improving mental well-being, and facilitating community events. They connect communities, providing safe transportation alternatives. Trails also benefit the environment by protecting natural resources and offering educational opportunities. They can preserve historic and cultural sites, boost property values, drive economic development, and attract tourists, benefiting the local economy.
Vision, Goals, Objectives
The Richmond City Trials Master Plan has a set of three main categories: Safety, Heritage, and Community. These are what most citizens of Richmond love about this small city, and don’t want to watch their homes waste away. Accessible places to walk and bike, preserve Richmond’s scenic beauty, and enhance Richmond’s quality of life are what is on the minds of the Master Planners.
The Planning Process
The planning process for Richmond City's outdoor recreation and trail development began in May 2021 and involved active engagement with the community and stakeholders. Several levels of analysis were conducted to shape the plan's recommendations, including:
General Demographic Review: Examining population demographics, household income, age distribution, and commute times using data from the American Community Survey.
Existing Conditions Inventory: Inventory of the current sidewalk network, parks, structures, landmarks, amenities, existing trails, land ownership, and sensitive areas within Richmond City.
Trails Analysis: Identifying activity nodes, potential connectivity routes, and scenic areas in the community.
Strava Heat Maps (Hiking and Biking): Analyzing data on popular hiking and biking routes, identifying connectivity patterns, and highlighting areas with safety concerns.
300 East Paved Trail Data Collection: Gathering usage data on the existing 300 East paved trail using an EcoCounter to establish usage trends and support further investment in similar projects.
Park Analysis: Quantifying resi- dents' proximity to open spaces and parks, revealing areas with deficits in park access.
Crossing Analysis & Preliminary Design: Assessing logical crossing locations along Highway 91 and conceptualizing traffic calming measures and infrastructure needed for trail crossings.
Exiting Plan Review
The planning process for Richmond City's outdoor recreation and trail development included a review of previously adopted plans and land-use planning documents to understand existing trail priorities and opportunities. Some of the key documents and plans that were reviewed include:
Richmond General Plan, 2013: This plan proposed various trail types, including bike lanes, multi-use pathways, pedestrian-only paths, equestrian routes, and singletrack trails within Richmond City.
Cache County Trail Feasibility Study, 2021: This study focused on establishing a paved trail system connecting Smithfield and Richmond within the Highway 91 corridor.
U.S. Forest Service Motor Vehicle Use Maps for the Logan Ranger Districts: These maps provide information about motorized vehicle use in the nearby forested areas.
Wasatch-Cache National Forest 2003 Revised Forest Plan and Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS): This document outlines the forest management plan and its impact on the area.
UDOT Statewide Active Transportation Plan: The Utah Department of Transportation's plan for active transportation infrastructure and development.
Cache County Trails and Active Transportation Master Plan, 2018: A county-level plan addressing trails and active transportation infrastructure.
Northern Utah Bonneville Shoreline Trail Master Plan: A plan for developing the Bonneville Shoreline Trail in northern Utah.
These existing plans and documents provided valuable insights into the trail priorities and opportunities within Richmond City, helping to inform the development of the Richmond Trail Master Plan.
Stakeholder & Public Input
The development of the Richmond Trail Master Plan involved significant community engagement and input from various stakeholders:
Steering Committee: A diverse steering committee composed of elected officials, Richmond City residents, and trail users, as well as agency personnel from Bear River Association of Governments, Cache County, and the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation, provided guidance and expertise throughout the planning process.
Online Public Survey: An online survey was distributed to residents and non-residents, with 15 questions aimed at assessing community goals related to trails. The survey was promoted through Richmond City's online newsletter, posters in government buildings, text messages, emails, and social media channels.
Stakeholder Input: A broader Stakeholder Committee meeting was convened to review existing conditions and demographic analysis and to provide input and feedback on proposed trails and project recommendations. Representatives from local businesses, the Utah Department of Transportation, neighboring land management agencies, and local government officials participated in this meeting.
Public Open House: A public open house was held in Richmond City's Council Chambers, with approximately 15 members of the public in attendance. Various maps were presented, illustrating draft plan recommendations for different types of trails and facilities. Participants were encouraged to express their preferences and concerns by placing green (favored) or red (unfavored) stickers on the maps. The project team and steering committee members were available to discuss the maps and proposed trails with attendees. The Region 1 UDOT Planning Manager also engaged with the community on issues related to the S.R. 91 corridor.
Virtual Open House: A virtual open house was provided for citizens to view proposed trails and offer comments online. However, this platform received limited participation, with only three comments submitted.
The input and feedback collected from these engagement activities were vital in shaping the Richmond Trail Master Plan to align with the community's needs and preferences.
Implementation Strategy
The implementation of the Richmond Trail Master Plan is essential for the long-term preservation and maintenance of trails, ensuring they can be enjoyed by future generations. To maximize its effectiveness, the plan should be formally adopted by the city and seamlessly integrated into other community planning documents and processes. This integration will help ensure that the trails align cohesively within the community and on a regional scale, creating a network of connected trails and pathways.
Furthermore, adopting this plan will offer significant benefits when seeking grant funding to support the development or maintenance of existing trail facilities. Grants and funding opportunities often require communities to have a well-defined and comprehensive trail plan in place, making the adoption of this plan a strategic move for securing financial support for trail projects.
Proposed Trails & Project Summaries
On-Street Bike Facilities: The Richmond Trail Master Plan includes the development of on-street bike facilities (bike lanes) as a crucial component of creating a continuous and safe cycling network within the community. Here are the key on-street bike facilities identified in the plan:
200 S Bikeway: This bikeway features a visibly separated bike lane along 200 S/10200 N, spanning from 300 E to 300 E. It provides a connection to the proposed Cache Bikeway.
Main Street Bikeway: Envisioned as a visibly separated bike lane, this facility serves as a primary east/west route along Main Street, extending from 650 E to the Bear River Nature Trail. Coordination with the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) is necessary for the US 91 crossing and feasibility within HWY 142.
State Street Bikeway (North): This bikeway offers a visibly separated bike lane for north/south cycling along State Street, running from High Creek Road south to the 1100 E/8950 N intersection on US 91.
State Street Bikeway (South): Similar to the north segment, this bikeway provides a visibly separated bike lane for north/south cycling along State Street, covering the stretch from High Creek Road south to the 1100 E/8950 N intersection on US 91.
9800 N Bike Lane: This bike lane runs from State Street to the Cache Bikeway Extension, spanning a distance of 1.06 miles.
The development of these on-street bike facilities aims to enhance safety for cyclists, promote road cycling in Cache Valley, reduce the risk of accidents, and contribute to the region's reputation as a world-class road cycling destination. Additionally, these facilities can encourage active commuting and reduce the wear and tear on roadways from increased vehicular traffic. It's worth noting that electric micromobility devices like e-scooters and one-wheels can also benefit from these on-street bike facilities.
Paved Pathways: The Richmond Trail Master Plan includes the development of paved multi-use trails, also known as paved pathways, to provide safe facilities for walking, jogging, or rolling throughout Richmond. These pathways aim to enhance the quality of life for nearby residents and improve recreational access for people of all ages and abilities. Here are the identified paved multi-use trails in the plan:
200 S Paved Trail: This trail spans 1.54 miles, providing a connection from the 300 E Paved trail to the west side of Richmond, ultimately connecting to 300 E west of 500 W.
State Street Paved Trai: Extending for 5.40 miles, this trail is detailed in the Cache County Trail Feasibility Study (2021). It includes a proposed trail south of 8590 N, including a crossing at 9000 N and US 91. Future coordination with Cache County and UDOT Region 1 is necessary to determine the feasibility of the stretch from 8590 N to High Creek Road and north along 1200 E toward Cove and the Idaho border.
500 North Community Trail: Covering 0.44 miles, this paved connector runs north of Richmond Cemetery, linking Cherry Ridge Lane and State Street.
Cherry Creek Connector: Spanning 2.20 miles, this trail provides High Creek Connector trail access to Cherry Peak Resort within the 11000 N right-of-way. Coordination with Cache County Public Works is required.
Upper Richmond Connector Trail: This 1.09-mile trail extends from 2000 E to State Street, following the creek channel.
Mountain Home Rd. Path: Covering 2.56 miles, this regional connector links High Creek Road to the Idaho border. Coordination with Cache County Public Works is necessary.
Cherry Ridge Lane Connector: This trail spans 0.30 miles and provides a paved connection to the Cherry Ridge Lane Connector trail.
Main Street Paved Path: Envisioned as a 3.22-mile paved pathway, it serves as a primary east/west facility along Main Street, extending from 650 E or the Bonneville Shoreline Trail access to the Bear River Nature Trail. Coordination with UDOT is necessary for the US 91 crossing and feasibility within HWY 142.
11800 N Path: Covering 0.93 miles, this trail connects State Street and 200 E along 11800 N.
250 E Path: This 0.09-mile paved north/south trail extends the 300 E trail and connects 400 S to 825 S.
These paved multi-use trails will contribute to safer and more accessible recreational opportunities within Richmond, benefitting both residents and visitors.
Motorized Trails & Recreation Area: The Richmond Trail Master Plan includes the development of motorized recreational facilities and associated access routes to address the lack of publicly accessible motorized trails and recreational amenities within Cache Valley. Here are the key motorized facilities and access routes identified in the plan:
Motorized Recreation Area (Dirt Track): This proposed Motorized Recreation Area is located outside of Richmond City limits and lies within Cache County's unincorporated area. Richmond City is recommended to pursue a partnership with Cache County to explore the potential of this area. The facility could include a dirt track, a skills park, and other features. It has the potential to host regional or state-wide events and competitions, driving economic activity towards local businesses.
Cub River Sports Complex Access (Motorized): This 2.41-mile route involves an existing road where signage should be added to indicate allowable OHV/motorized use and enhance crossing signage. It aims to provide improved access along 300/400 E from the Cub River Sports Complex and along 10600 N to US 91.
Cub River Sports Access (11600 N) (Motorized): Covering 1.00 miles, this route also utilizes an existing road. It requires the addition of signage to indicate allowable OHV/motorized use and enhance crossing signage. Coordination with the Cache County Public Works Department is necessary.
400 W Motorized (Motorized): This 0.67-mile route involves an existing road and requires the addition of signage to indicate allowable OHV/motorized use and enhance crossing signage. It aims to improve access along 300/400 E from the Cub River Sports Complex and along 10600 N to US 91.
Bridger Motorized Access (Motorized): Covering 0.56 miles, this route involves creating motorized access along the Union Pacific ROW to 400 W Motorized access and 11600 N.
200 E Motorized Access (Motorized): This 0.28-mile route provides motorized access near the Cub River Sports Complex, involving the addition of signage on an existing road.
Motorized Recreation Area (Dirt Track) Access (Motorized): Covering 0.65 miles, this route involves adding signage on an existing road on 10600 N to access the proposed motorized recreation area with a dirt track.
These motorized facilities and access routes are aimed at providing opportunities for motorized recreational activities while enhancing economic activity and regional events within the Richmond area. Coordination with Cache County and other relevant entities will be essential to realize these plans.
Non-Paved Multi-Use Trails: The Richmond Trail Master Plan also includes the development of non-paved multi-use trails to provide safe facilities for various recreational activities such as walking, jogging, biking, and equestrian use. These trails typically have compacted gravel surfaces. Here are the key non-paved multi-use trails identified in the plan:
Bridger Rail Trail: This 5.45-mile trail is envisioned as the Bridger Rail Trail. You can refer to Cache County's Trail & Active Transportation Plan (2019) for more information on this trail.
100 E Neighborhood Trail: Covering 1.86 miles, this trail aims to provide a non-paved trail along the entirety of 100 E.
City Creek Nature Trail: This 3.07-mile trail is envisioned as a natural surface trail that spans from the proposed Bear River Nature Trail in unincorporated Cache County to 250 E in Richmond along the City Creek corridor.
Bear River Nature Trail: Covering 4.58 miles, this trail is envisioned as a natural surface trail that spans from 12600 N in unincorporated Cache County and connects to the proposed City Creek Nature Trail.
700 E Multi-use Trail: This proposed trail covers 2.62 miles from 8500 N to 10600 N in 700 E ROW and will require coordination with Cache County Public Works.
Cherry Creek Nature Trail: Envisioned as a 1.08-mile natural surface trail, it spans from 2000 E to State Street.
High Creek Community Connector: This 3.98-mile trail on the east side of Richmond follows the toe of the foothills from 11000 N to High Creek Road, jogging on 200 E. It will continue to jog to the west until it connects with 1400 E and the envisioned Mountain Home Rd.
Upper Cherry Creek Connector Trail: Covering 1.21 miles, this trail connects residents and future development to the Upper Richmond Connector Trail and the Cherry Creek Nature Trail, providing various trail loop opportunities for residents.
Lower Cherry Creek Connector Trail: This 0.62-mile non-paved trail provides a connection to the Cherry Ridge Connector trail.
11000 N Connector: Covering 0.35 miles, this trail provides a connection from Upper High Creek Community Connector trail from 11000 N.
200 S Paved Trail & City Creek Connector: This 0.37-mile trail connects City Creek Nature Trail along 100 E to 10200 N, and along 10200 N to 300 E to the proposed 200 S Paved Trail.
300 E Connector: Covering 0.52 miles, this trail connects to 10200 N and City Creek Nature Trail from 10600 N.
Cub River Trail: This 0.32-mile trail is along 11600 N between Cub River Sports Complex and the proposed Bear River Nature Trail.
200 E River Loop: Covering 0.38 miles, this trail creates a loop between the Cub River Trail and the Bear River Nature Trail along 200 E.
825 S Trai: This 0.24-mile trail provides a connection between 250 E and 100 E.
These non-paved multi-use trails are designed to enhance recreational opportunities and connectivity within the Richmond community, catering to a variety of outdoor activities and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Singletrack Trails: The Richmond Trail Master Plan also includes the development of singletrack trails, which are narrow trails designed for non-motorized activities such as hiking, trail running, mountain biking, and equestrian use. These trails offer opportunities to connect with nature, stay physically active, engage with the community, and potentially increase property values. Here are the proposed singletrack trails in the plan:
Bonneville Shoreline Connector Trail: Covering 0.52 miles, this trail is proposed within the 9800 N right-of-way (ROW) to connect to the future Bonneville Shoreline Trail alignment.
9800 N Single Track: Envisioned to cover 1.82 miles, this trail aims to connect to Cherry Peak Ski Resort. However, its feasibility depends on permission from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
Canyon Access: Covering 2.15 miles, this trail requires permission from the Division of Wildlife Resources.
Nebo Canyon Trail: This 1.61-mile scenic singletrack trail is located above Richmond and would require coordination with the Logan Ranger District of the US Forest Service (USFS).
City Creek Canyon Trail: Covering 3.05 miles, this trail requires permission from the Division of Wildlife Resources and coordination with the Logan Ranger District of the USFS.
City Creek Loop Connection: Covering 0.47 miles, this trail is designed to create a loop between the North Fork of City Creek and the main City Creek trail. Permission from the Logan Ranger District of the USFS is required.
Lower High Creek Community Connector: Covering 0.43 miles, this trail is located on the east side of Richmond, at the toe of the foothills, from 11000 N to the Horse Arena.
Upper Richmond Trail / Bonneville Shoreline Trail: Envisioned as a Bonneville Shoreline Trail segment between 9800 N and 11000 N, this trail covers 1.94 miles.
9800 N Single Track: Covering 0.59 miles, this trail aims to connect to Cherry Peak Ski Resort, subject to permission from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
North Fork City Creek Connector: Covering 0.86 miles, this trail is designed to create a loop between the North Fork of City Creek and the main City Creek trail, requiring permission from the Logan Ranger District of the USFS.
Cherry Creek Nature Trail - West Connection: Covering 1.90 miles, this trail connects the east side of the proposed Cherry Creek Nature Trail to the Bear River Nature Trail.
Bear River Nature Trail North Connector: Covering 0.55 miles, this trail provides a connection between 300 E and the proposed Bear River Nature Trail.
These singletrack trails aim to enhance outdoor recreational opportunities and promote connectivity within Richmond, catering to a range of outdoor enthusiasts and providing a natural experience in the beautiful surrounding landscape.
Proposed Trailhead: The Richmond Trail Master Plan includes the development of nine proposed trailheads to enhance trail access within Richmond City and its surrounding areas. These trailheads aim to provide convenient entry points for various trails and recreational amenities, but their precise locations and facilities may require further refinement and approvals from land managers and property owners. Here are the proposed trailheads:
City Creek Trailhead - 9600 N: This trailhead is proposed adjacent to the existing walk-in access on the Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) property. Permission from the Division of Wildlife Resources and coordination with the Logan Ranger District of the US Forest Service (USFS) are required. It serves as the starting point for the proposed City Creek Canyon and City Creek Canyon Loop singletrack trails.
Nebo Creek Trailhead - 9000 N: Proposed at the end of 9000 N, this trailhead serves as the starting point for the proposed Nebo Canyon singletrack trail.
Central City Creek / Bridger Rail Trail Trailhead: This proposed trailhead is located between 400 W and 300 E to the west of Richmond. Access improvements from 200 S are required, along with permission and coordination with private property owners and Union Pacific. It provides access to the proposed Bridger Rail Trail and the envisioned City Creek Nature Trail.
Bear River Nature Trail / Motorized Dirt Track Trailhead: Accessible from HWY 143, this trailhead would require coordination with UDOT Region 1. It offers access to the proposed Bear River Nature Trail and the proposed motorized recreation area (dirt track). If a motorized dirt track is developed, the trailhead should include spaces for staging trailers.
10600 N Trailhead (Motorized Access): If a motorized recreation area is developed, this trailhead could be established along 10600 N to accommodate an OHV staging area. From here, motorized users could access a proposed loop that leads to the motorized recreation area (dirt track), Cub River Sports Complex, and the paved trail on HWY 91.
Cub River Sports Complex Trailhead: Dedicated trailhead parking at the existing Cub River Sports Complex or a new trailhead in the area could provide access to the proposed Bear River Nature Trail and the motorized access road to the proposed motorized recreation area (dirt track).
Lower State Street Trailhead: Proposed along State Street near 100 N, this trailhead would offer dedicated parking spaces for access to the proposed State Street Paved Trail and the envisioned State Street bike lane.
Upper State Street Trailhead: Proposed along State Street near 11600 N, this trailhead would provide access to the proposed Upper Richmond Connector Trail, the Cherry Creek Nature Street, the State Street Paved Trail, and the State Street bike lane.
Bear River Nature Trail Trailhead: This proposed trailhead is located in unincorporated Cache County where the Bear River intersects 800 S/12600 N. It would provide access to the proposed Bear River Nature Trail.
These trailheads play a crucial role in facilitating trail access and promoting outdoor recreation opportunities in Richmond City and its surrounding areas.
Construction & Maintenance Cost Estimates
When seeking funding for proposed trails in Richmond City, it's essential to request quotes or contractor bids for the listed projects. However, please note that the cost estimates provided below are for planning purposes only and may vary based on several factors, including the specific project requirements and conditions. Here are the estimated construction and maintenance costs per mile for different trail types:
2-4 ft. wide Single Track Trail:
Construction Cost: $0 - $93,600
Maintenance Cost: $250 - $1,170
Notes: Costs can vary greatly based on the level of volunteer involvement versus professional contractor services. Maintenance needs may include invasive weed control, signage replacement, cleaning trail drains, and more.
On-Street Bike Facility:
Construction Cost: $1,500 - $30,000
Maintenance Cost: $5,000 - $11,700
Notes: Cost estimates cover stripe/painting costs. Additional maintenance costs are similar to local roadway maintenance estimates, such as filling potholes and street sweeping.
Paved Multi-use Trail:
Construction Cost: $500,000 - $1.4 million
Maintenance Cost: $5,000 - $11,700
Notes: Costs can vary significantly based on necessary earthwork/grading or other infrastructure needs. For example, costs may be higher if a canal needs to be culverted underneath the trail.
Non-Paved Multi-Use Trail:
Construction Cost: $10,000 - $23,400
Maintenance Cost: $1,500 - $5,850
Notes: Costs may vary based on specific surface types and the availability of in-kind resources. Maintenance needs for non-paved trails are similar to those of singletrack trails.
These cost estimates are based on 2019 estimates for similar projects and have been adjusted for 2023 inflation rates. Keep in mind that actual costs may vary based on project-specific factors, local conditions, and the competitive bidding process. It's crucial to work with contractors and obtain accurate project-specific cost estimates when seeking funding for trail projects in Richmond City.
Trail Development Process
The outlined process for developing new trails in and around local rural communities, like Richmond City, provides a structured approach to ensure the successful planning, construction, and maintenance of trails. Here's a summary of the key steps in this process:
Idea: The process begins with an idea, which could come from the trail plan, trail users, or local trails committee.
Initial Feasibility: Determine if the idea is feasible by considering potential conflicts, opportunities, limitations, and whether there are insurmountable issues.
Corridor Mapping & Landowner Permissions: Map the initial trail corridor and engage with local leaders, landowners, land managers, trails committees, and other stakeholders. Obtain permissions from landowners or public land managers and be open to incorporating input from various groups.
Site Analysis & Programmatic Approvals: Consider sensitive natural areas and try to avoid them. Buffer the trail from other properties if necessary. Go through any additional approval processes required by relevant authorities.
Conceptual Alignment: Ensure the trail is designed sustainably, has a clear purpose, connects well with existing trail networks, or has a relevant starting point, purpose, or destination.
Final Flagging: Establish the final trail alignment by placing pin flags along the corridor. This step involves collaboration between trail designers and landowners or managers.
Project Funding: Initiate the project once formal approval has been granted. Be aware of funding timelines and ensure the project can realistically be executed within the allocated timeline.
Construction: Advertise a request for bids if a private contractor is involved, or utilize a land management agency's trail crews and equipment for in-house construction. Volunteer efforts can support light brushing and finishing work.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial to address small issues before they become major problems, ensuring trail stability, safety, and user experience. New trails should be monitored for invasive weed species during the initial years.
Ongoing Public Support: Encourage a community of trail enthusiasts who care about and take ownership of the trail's health and longevity. Engage volunteers in trail clean-ups, maintenance, and related projects.
This structured approach helps balance private property rights, land management objectives, and public needs, ensuring that new trails are planned, constructed, and maintained effectively. It also promotes community involvement and support for the trails, contributing to their long-term success.
Trails Committee
Trails committees play a vital role in the planning, development, and maintenance of trail and recreation-related projects within communities. They often consist of dedicated and inspired citizens who volunteer their time and expertise to support these initiatives. Trails committees can take various forms, from ad-hoc volunteer groups to more structured committees with established ordinances and bylaws.
In the context of your document, you mentioned two examples of trial committees:
Ogden Trails Network Committee: This committee likely operates in the Ogden, Utah area and is involved in coordinating and promoting trail-related projects and activities. They may have established ordinances and bylaws to guide their operations and decision-making processes.
Grand County Committee Resolution: This suggests that Grand County in Utah has passed a resolution related to the formation or operation of a trials committee. The resolution may outline the committee's purpose, responsibilities, and structure.
Appendix: Trails Committees likely contain more detailed information about these examples, including their roles, responsibilities, and governance structures. Trails committees are instrumental in fostering community engagement, advocating for trail projects, and ensuring their successful implementation and maintenance.
Building Partnerships
Building partnerships is indeed a crucial aspect of creating a connected and seamless trail network. Cooperation and collaboration among various stakeholders, including different levels of government, landowners, and organizations, are essential to the success of trail projects. In this case, Richmond City recognizes the importance of working with several key partners:
Cache County's Trail & Active Transportation Program: Collaborating with the county's program can help ensure that trail projects within Richmond City align with regional goals and integrate seamlessly into the broader network of trails in Cache County.
Utah Division of Wildlife Resources: Given the importance of natural areas and wildlife habitats, working with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is essential to minimize the impact of trail development on sensitive ecosystems and ensure that trails are environmentally responsible.
Logan Ranger District of the United States Forest Service (USFS): The USFS often manages public lands that may be adjacent to or intersect with trail systems. Cooperation with the local ranger district is necessary to obtain the required permissions and ensure that trails comply with federal regulations.
Private Landowners: Many trail projects involve traversing private property or require access through privately owned lands. Building positive relationships with private landowners, obtaining necessary permissions, and addressing their concerns are essential for successful trail development.
By fostering these partnerships and maintaining open lines of communication, Richmond City can enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of its trail network while addressing the interests and concerns of various stakeholders. This collaborative approach is key to creating a well-connected and well-maintained trail system that benefits the community and the region as a whole.
Private Property, Access, Easements, Liability, and Private Property Liability - Utah’s Recreational Liability Statute
The emphasis on private property rights and liability protection is crucial in trail development planning. Here's a summary of key points regarding private property, access, easements, and liability in the context of Utah's recreational liability statute:
No Eminent Domain: Eminent domain or other forms of government overreach will not be used for trail or trailhead development on private property. Access must be secured through willing buyer/willing seller scenarios or through access or conservation easements with willing landowners.
Written Agreements: Trails can become official on private land if there is a written agreement between the private landowner and the public entity responsible for the trail. Similarly, on public land, a trail becomes official after undergoing an official review and approval process by the relevant public agency.
Public Land Approval: When a trail crosses public land, it must go through the approval process of the respective public land management agency to ensure compliance with regulations and environmental considerations.
Private Property Liability: Landowners who allow public use of their property for recreational purposes, including trails, are protected under Utah State Code 57-14. This statute limits the liability of landowners for persons entering their land for recreation, whether by permission or under certain acts. While it may not necessarily prevent a landowner from being sued, it provides basic protection.
License Agreements: Landowners can consider entering into license agreements with the city, county, or state entity to further protect themselves from liability concerns. These agreements can absolve the private property owner of liability, with the public entity assuming full liability responsibility.
The combination of Utah's recreational liability statute and well-structured agreements between landowners and public entities helps create a framework that encourages landowners to allow public access to their property for recreational purposes, promoting the development of trails while addressing liability concerns.
Potential Funding Sources
Certainly, here's a summary of the key points regarding accessing grants for trail development without specific numbers:
Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation: Grants for recreation-related projects in Utah are often managed by the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation, part of the Department of Natural Resources. These grants can be combined to maximize local investment.
Braiding Grants: Combining grants from different sources is an effective strategy to secure funding for projects, allowing local communities to increase their financial capacity for implementation.
In-Kind Contributions: Project descriptions can include in-kind contributions like volunteer labor and donated materials, which help leverage local investment and demonstrate community support.
Diverse Grant Sources: Grants for recreation projects can come from various sources, including private organizations, local government agencies, and federal entities. Exploring a range of grant opportunities is crucial to finding the right fit for a project.
Additional Information: A list of potential grant sources from different entities can be accessed through a QR code or a provided link. This resource assists in identifying funding opportunities for recreation-related initiatives.
By actively pursuing grants from various sources, communities like Richmond City can make substantial progress in developing and improving their recreational trails and facilities.
Incentives
In various Utah communities, incentive ordinances or programs have been established to encourage new development or redevelopment projects to incorporate desired trail infrastructure. An example of such an ordinance is provided in the Appendix: Trails Bonus Density Ordinance.
This type of program offers incentives or benefits to property developers who include trail infrastructure, such as trails, pathways, or access points, within their projects. These incentives can take the form of increased development density allowances, reduced fees, or other advantages that make it more attractive for developers to invest in trail-related amenities.
This approach helps communities expand their trail networks and enhance recreational opportunities while accommodating growth and development.
Regulations and Maintenance
This section outlines strategies to mitigate liability concerns associated with trails and facilities, as well as details on trail maintenance responsibilities and practices.
To limit liability, it is crucial to adopt measures that reduce the risk of accidents and injuries on trails. Ensuring regular maintenance activities, such as mowing, weed control, litter and waste collection, snow removal, trail resurfacing, re-striping lines, and replacing degraded or vandalized signs, can enhance safety and security for trail users. It is essential to allocate resources for ongoing maintenance to uphold the quality and safety of trails.
The costs associated with trail maintenance can vary significantly depending on the type of trail and its level of use. Funding for maintenance activities can come from various sources, including city funds, agency funds, donations, volunteer labor, grants, or a combination of these. Establishing a functional trail committee can aid in identifying maintenance priorities and help the city plan its maintenance efforts effectively.
Furthermore, active use of trails by the community can contribute to their maintenance to some extent, especially natural surface trails, as regular use can help prevent certain issues.
In summary, implementing regular maintenance practices, along with appropriate preventative measures, is essential to manage liability, reduce future repair costs, and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for trail users.
Trail Design & Facilities Guidelines
Best read directly from the Master Plan Draft. You can find the original document here.
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