DESIGN DETAIL: ALL-PERSONS WAL k ING TRAIL

Hanover residents demonstrated a huge interest in walking trails. Over 100 survey respondents indicated a desire for walking trails at B. Everett Hall Field. In the final design proposal, an all-persons walking loop connects various park elements and loops around the perimeter of the fields and meadow.

In conversations with seniors at the Senior Center, the following trailrelated desires emerged: many opportunities to sit; flat, smooth surfaces; trails that don’t feel too isolated; in a place with other people; and trails alongside a gathering space, especially a place to eat lunch.

What is an all-persons trail?

All-persons trails are built to be accessible to all people, including those with hearing, sight, or mobility impairments. All-persons trails require firm, stable surfacing; restrict the duration of steeply sloped trail segments; and ensure obstruction-free passage for people in wheelchairs. Municipals lands must use American Disabilities Act (ADA) standards for walking paths in developed areas. The Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) accessibility standards section 1017 details paths and picnic areas in public parks. The U.S. Forest Service Trail Accessibility Guidelines (FSTAG) are also a best practice standard in the industry for trails.¹

Basic all persons trail dimensions

• 36 inch minimum width of treadway

• 60 by 60 inch passing space every 200 feet

Crushed stone trails

Crushed stone paths are considered a step up in durability and stability level from a simple gravel path and are permeable, reducing problems with water runoff, unlike paved trails. Crushed stone trails are prone to spreading over time which can add to maintenance costs. Crushed stone is generally preferable to paved surfaces because it looks natural, compacts well, dries out after rain or snow, is "firm and stable" according to accessibility guidelines, and doesn't feel hard underfoot.²

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• 5% cross slope at maximum; 2% cross slope max for built structures (pavement, concrete, boardwalks)

• 5% or less running slope for any distance; 8.3% max running slope for up to 200 feet

• Transitions between slopes require rest interval at least 5 feet long and with a grade less than 5%

CONVERSATION - STYLE BENCHES

Paved trails

Paved trails are typically asphalt or concrete. Asphalt requires expensive maintenance as it deteriorates over time. Concrete is more expensive initially, but less expensive to maintain over its long lifespan. Both pavement types embody significant energy in their construction, and are less environmentally friendly than natural alternatives.²

Paths that would be accessible according to ADA standards are highlighted. The story book trail north of the fields has many roots that obstruct access, but could be retrofitted according to ABA standards to be accessible or maintained as an uneven natural surface trail.