One of the greatest opportunities for improvement in the greenway network is designing effective connections. These include four types of connectors: streets, corridors, canals, and trails.
This connection parallels streets but is enhanced to provide better access to many users, such as cyclists and pedestrians.
Ecosystem Services Provided:
Cultural - Recreation
Regulating - Climate control, air quality, water runoff
Examples:
A corridor is an independent multi-use pathway, not parallel to roads or waterways. It offers easy access to a naturalized experience, and integrates potential habitat and relating ecosystem services into the community.
Ecosystem Services Provided:
Supporting - Habitat migration, safe pedestrian travel
Cultural - Exploration opportunities for all ages and abilities
Examples:
This connection parallels the existing canal system through the area.
Ecosystem Services Provided:
Cultural: Recreation, aesthetics
Provisioning: Fresh water
Regulating: Flood regulation, water purification
Supporting: Nutrient cycling, soil formation
Examples:
Trails in this context have a natural surface and are more rugged. They embody the traditional hiking experience and offer the greatest connection to natural systems. They give access to more isolated natural areas, and better connect users to wildlife.
Ecosystem Services Provided:
Cultural - Recreation, aesthetics
Supporting - Habitat corridor, water cycling, photosynthesis
Regulating - Climate control, flood control, erosion prevention
Examples:
Trail surfaces come in a large variety, fitting a range of costs, longevities and each its own character. The surface of a trail can play a large role in shaping the atmosphere of a section of greenway allowing designers to match a particular theme in mind.
The following must be considered when choosing:
User acceptance and satisfaction
Goals of themes/setting of the trail
Accessibility
Cost to purchase and install
Cost of maintenance
Life expectancy
Availability
Concrete
Looks the most formal. Best for shorter sections of trail near specific focal areas. More expensive and not as ideal for rollerblades or skateboards due to the necessary scoring.
Asphalt
Less expensive to install than concrete and less durable but can hold up to relatively high use. Can feel out of place in a natural environment. Better Suited for an urban location.
Crushed Stone
Works well in a natural landscape and holds up very well under heavy use. Easier to source. Can be widely accommodating as long as it is properly compacted.
Soil Cement
A mixture of pulverized native soil, Portland cement and water, rolled and compacted into a highly dense surface type. This is less expensive that asphalt, but drainage is very important.
Resin-Based Stabilized Material
Uses resin to bind aggregate or soil particles together. Works well in natural environments. This surface impacts the environment less than asphalt and can be less expensive.
Boardwalk
Often used for trail segments through wetlands. Allows for better drainage in wetland ecosystems. Expensive to install and maintain and can be slippery when wet.
Natural Earth
Low maintenance depending on the usage levels and drainage. Gives a natural, adventure feel. 4' width or less is best. Wider trails can have usage conflicts with motorized off-road users.
Woodchips
A less formal and less expensive option for surfacing. Shorter sections of this surface type are more common. Drainage results can be relatively good. Good upgrade from a natural trail.