Guidelines for greenways: Determining the distance to, features of, and human needs met by destinations on multi -use corridors.

Abstract

Greenways, also known as bicycle paths, exist and are being added to in the tens of thousands of miles in the United States. While some offer positive environments enjoyed by many users, others are designed to highway-like standards and lack qualities that foster human well-being. On a well-designed greenway, individuals can feel encouraged to recreate, thus following the recommendations of health experts. In natural settings, people can restore directed attention, thus minimizing the effects of directed attention fatigue. At locations of social interaction, individuals can build social capital, thus increasing quality of life. Previous research has revealed users' dissatisfaction with greenways that displayed a sameness of the path for too long. This research suggested that destinations some distance apart offer variety and a sense of arrival and reward. The research sought to determine the particular features and qualities of destinations on a greenway. The research framework utilizes the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being model developed by Maslow-Barrett and the features, activities, and meanings of Canter's place model. This multiple case research studies six attractive greenways in the U.S. that were selected for their perceived quality through a survey sent to 90 greenway experts. The exemplars studied include: 2 rural paths (Stowe Recreation Path, Vermont and the Vail I-70 Trail, Colorado), 2 urban paths (Denver South Platte River Greenway and the Chicago Lakefront Trail), and 2 rail-trails (Minuteman Trail near Boston and the West Orange Trail near Orlando). The study employs a mapping and survey exercise of habitual users, and in situ physical measurements, observations, surveys, and photographs. The results indicate that the most frequently used destinations are characterized by a convergence of multiple physical features, a variety of activities for all ages, and a broad range of meanings. In a typical walk, bicycle, jog, or in-line skate trip, a person prefers to experience 3 to 4 destinations. The range for distances between destinations (mean of 4 miles) depends on variables such as sport, incline, and crowds. This research concludes with a set of 23 design guidelines for greenway development with implications for sidewalks, parks, and streets.