Integrating Transportation and Recreation Networks
This presentation focuses on design publications that address common design challenges and barriers.
by Christopher Douwes, Community Planner, Federal Highway Administration, Laura Toole, Planning and Environmental Specialist, Federal Highway Administration
Several new design publications highlight ways that planners and designers can apply the design flexibility found in national design guidelines to address common design challenges and barriers.
These publications focus on reducing multimodal conflicts and achieving connected networks, so that walking and bicycling are safe, comfortable, and attractive options for people of all ages and abilities.
Christopher Douwes is a Community Planner with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in Washington DC. He has managed the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) since 1992, Transportation Enhancement (TE) activities since 2003, Transportation Alternatives (TA) since 2012, and has assisted with Bicycle and Pedestrian Activities since 1992. He manages contracts for research, technology development, technical assistance, and training for trail-related activities., Christopher received his Masters of Science in Transportation from Northwestern University in 1990.
Contact: [email protected]
Laura Toole is a Planning and Environmental Specialist in the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Ohio Division. She manages the Bicycle and Pedestrian and Recreational Trails Programs, as well as serving as the liaison to five Ohio Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO) and the point of contact for MPO transportation performance management and integration of safety into the planning process. Laura has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Industrial Engineering with a focus on Human Factors Engineering from Virginia Tech.
Contact: [email protected]
Perceptions of Conflict Surrounding Future E-Bike Use on the Arizona Trail
On average, the majority of survey respondents disapprove of e-bikes being allowed on the trail. This remains true across the board for each of the major user groups; however, mountain bike rider respondents are less likely to disapprove of allowing e-bikes on non-motorized trails and equestrian respondents are more likely to disapprove.
30 New National Recreation Trails Have Been Designated
On October 22, 2020 U.S. Secretary of the Interior David L. Bernhardt announced 30 new national recreation trails in 25 states, adding more than 1,275 miles to the National Trails System.
With this document, the Dakota County Greenway Collaborative takes the approach used in roadbuilding and applies it to creating a countywide network of greenways.
Times of crisis challenge social sector leaders in extraordinary ways. The unprecedented circumstances brought forth by COVID-19 and recent acts of police brutality call on each of us to individually reflect, collectively support, and intentionally adapt our work to meet the urgent needs of this moment.
