Hike and Bike System Master Plan Hike and Bike System Master Plan | Page 199

HIKE AND BIKE SYSTEM MASTER PLAN
4 . Bikeway and Walkway Signage and Markings
Bikeway and walkway signs fall into two categories : safety and information . Trail users should be informed where they are , where they are going , and how to use the facilities safely . Signs related to safety are most important and should be considered priority and shall be maintained . Informational signage can enhance the users ’ experience . Inspection of bikeway and walkway safety and information signs and other pavement markings is critical . Signage should be visible at all times for all users . Horizontal signs and pavement markings on the street should be visible and the appropriate color reflectivity should be used . Replace defective signs and pavement markings on an as needed basis .
5 . Weed control
Weed control along Bikeways and walkways will be limited to areas in which certain weeds create a hazard to users . Environmentally safe weed removal methods should be used , especially along waterways .
6 . Edging
Edging maintains bikeway and walkway widths , and improves drainage . Problem areas include trail edges where berms tend to build up and where uphill slopes erode onto the trails . Removal of this material will allow proper draining , allow the flowing action of the water to clean the trail , and limit standing water .
7 . Drainage control
A culvert often becomes clogged with trash and debris and must be cleaned to prevent flooding and undercutting of pavement surfaces . In places where low spots on the bikeway or walkway catch water , the pavement surface should be raised or drains should be considered to carry away water . Drainage control can also be achieved through the proper edging of trails . If drainage is corrected near steep slopes , the possibility of erosion must be considered . Drainage structures shall be flush with pavement surfaces or adjusted as needed to prevent damage and harm to pedestrians and bicyclist and to maintain proper drainage .
8 . Maintenance of water crossings
Water crossings can be bridges , boardwalks or open box culverts . Debris needs to be removed on an as needed basis from the structures to allow the free flow of water and to reduce the risk of flooding . These structures need to be inspected on a regular basis for erosion control and action taken accordingly to preserve or replace structures .
9 . Revegetation
Areas adjacent to bikeways and walkways that have been disturbed for any reason should be revegetated to minimize future erosion concerns .
10 . Habitat enhancement and control
Habitat enhancement is achieved by planting vegetation along trails , mainly trees and shrubs . This can improve the aesthetics of the trail , help prevent erosion , and provide for wildlife habitat . Habitat control involves mitigation of damage caused by wildlife . An example is the protection of trees along waterways from damage caused by beavers .
11 . Coordination with other agencies
Maintenance of bikeways and walkways can often be located within more than one jurisdiction . A clear understanding of maintenance responsibilities needs to be established to avoid duplicating efforts or missing maintenance on the sections of the facilities .
12 . Graffiti control
The key to graffiti control is prompt observation and removal . During scheduled trail inspections any graffiti should be noted and the graffiti removal crew promptly notified . Vandalism left unattended encourages more of the same activity and should be a high priority of maintenance .
13 . Law enforcement
Law-enforcement effort is critical towards the goal of a safe bikeway and walkway system . Law enforcement agencies should be aware of the location of facilities , and the types and lev-
Chapter 7 : Design Guidelines | 7-93