Complete Design Services for Conversion of Abandoned Railroad Bed to Multi-use Recreational Path
Weston & Sampson provided complete design services for the conversion of a 3 kilometer section of abandoned railroad bed to a multi-use recreational path for pedestrians, cyclists and skaters. The design includes various access/rest-stop/activity areas along the length of the linear park, which crosses the Quinnipiac River and passes through the Town of Southington’s Central Business/Industrial District. The path, located primarily in an urban area, was developed in order to provide the community with options for alternative modes of transportation (walking, biking, etc.), plus to help generate economic development in the business district.
Weston & Sampson’s project team (formerly A-N Consulting Engineers, Inc.,) worked with the town to develop thoughtful and cost-effective infrastructure design. The completed multi-use trail includes:
- Renovation of a bridge crossing the Quinnipiac River
- Integration of extra-deep parking spaces along the trail in order to accommodate vehicles with rear-mounted bicycle racks/trailers
- Installation of a 3-foot wide stone dust trail parallel to the paved trail in order to provide a more forgiving surface for joggers
- Benches, bike racks, and other rest-stop/activity amenities
- Construction phase consultations and milestone inspections