This report serves as a national resource guide to assist communities in utilizing new and existing brownfield programs to understand and address environmental clean-up issues that may inhibit the conversion of unused rail rights-of-way (ROW) into multi-use trails. RTC’s objective was to address brownfield concerns by researching appropriate legal, funding and construction issues related to […]

The Florida Power and Light Greenway Assessment is an initiative of the Collier County Traffic Operations and Alternative Transportation Modes Department in partnership with Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC). This team was further supported by the firms of Borrelli and Associates and Vanassee Hangen Brustlin, Inc., which each provided pro-bono services to further advance this project. The […]

This document summarizes Best Management Practices (“BMPs”) that should be considered before, during, and after former railroad lines are converted to recreation trails. These BMPs have been developed to eliminate or minimize potential exposures to residual oil or hazardous materials commonly found along railroad rights-of-way being converted to rail trails. This document also identifies locations and conditions […]

This document is an example of an agreement between a landowner and the County, allowing public access to their property for the construction and use of a non-motorized bicycle and pedestrian trail. Author: Collier County

When approaching a trail project, trail designers and local agency representatives often assume their trail will be surfaced with asphalt or perhaps concrete if budget allows. These are some of the most common and acceptable materials used on trails. But this may not be what local residents had in mind when the trail idea was initially conceived. Or, […]

This fact sheet examines the value of trails and greenways. Despite different methodologies of different studies, there is growing evidence of such facilities’ value in terms of increased property values, community assets, and a host of environmental and economic benefits.

This agreement between Sandy City and the Utah Transit Authority grants the former a right-of-way license to build a trail alongside a light rail corridor. The agreement includes maintenance, insurance and safety considerations for the Porter Rockwell rail-with-trail. Created by Utah Transit Authority

This comprehensive report provides information and recommendations regarding feasibility, potential benefits, legislation and liability, planning, designing, operation and maintenance of rails-with-trails. It’s technical and specific guidelines and helpful diagrams make it an excellent resource for trail builders. Author: ALTA Planning + Design