HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity of Rexburg Trails PlanCITY OF REXBURG TRAILS PLAN
Adopted May 16, 2018
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Residents of Rexburg have chosen to live here because
they enjoy the current quality of life, aesthetics, recreational
opportunities, mix of land uses, and patterns of development
that the City provides. The City of Rexburg is a community
that highly values its history of a well-maintained residential
community. The preservation of quality of life is of utmost
importance to residents and business owners. Rexburg
views itself as a city where residents, tourists, businesses,
and government come together to create an attractive,
safe, and well-maintained community where people can
live, learn, work, and recreate.
A network of urban trails is a desire of the City and its
residents. A trail system would allow residents, both
young and elderly, to easily access the resources of the
City without driving. Public places should be linked to
residential neighborhoods, and commercial areas by a
well-maintained trail system and complete streets featuring
multimodal features such as bicycle lanes and pedestrian
ways, so that the community’s amenities are noticeable and
convenient for visitors and residents. Use of public and/
or civic property for trail alignments should be prioritized
as funding becomes available and as suggested in this
Plan. Further, trail alignments should not require removal
of housing units or condemnation of private property.
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1. INTRODUCTION................................................................................................1
PLAN OVERVIEW.....................................................................................................................................................2
VISION.....................................................................................................................................................2
REXBURG WELLNESS VISION...................................................................................................................................2
PLAN SCOPE & PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT..........................................................................................................3
RELATED PLANS & BACKGROUND DOCUMENTS............................................................................................3
GOALS & OBJECTIVES................................................................................................................................3
2. EXISTING CONDITIONS......................................................................................5
SUMMARY OF EXISTING CONDITIONS.......................................................................................................................6
GROWTH......................................................................................................................................6
EXISTING TRAILS...................................................................................................................................................6
CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES.................................................................................................................7
ACCESS........................................................................................................................................7
LIMITED PUBLIC RIGHTS-OF-WAY & ENCROACHMENT.......................................................................7
3. DESIGN GUIDELINES.........................................................................................9
PLAN CONCEPT....................................................................................................................................................10
DEFINITIONS...............................................................................................................................10
REGIONAL TRAILS........................................................................................................................10
COMMUNITY TRAILS....................................................................................................................10
LOCAL TRAILS.............................................................................................................................10
TRAIL DESIGNS........................................................................................................................................11
MAJOR ARTERIAL .......................................................................................................................12
MINOR ARTERIAL.........................................................................................................................13
MINOR ARTERIAL STREET WITH BIKE PATH....................................................................................14
RESIDENTIAL COLLECTOR STREET WITH BIKE LANE.......................................................................15
RESIDENTIAL COLLECTOR STREET WITH BIKE LANE (OPTION B)......................................................16
ACCESS-WAYS.............................................................................................................................17
TRAIL ROADWAY CROSSINGS....................................................................................................................17
TRAIL FEATURES......................................................................................................................................17
AMENITIES..................................................................................................................................18
4. RECOMMENDED TRAIL NETWORK.....................................................................21
RECOMMENDED STRATEGY.......................................................................................................................22
DEVELOPMENT............................................................................................................................22
5. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY.............................................................................25
REXBURG TRAILS COMMITTEE...................................................................................................................26
TRAIL IMPROVEMENT SELECTION CRITERIA................................................................................................26
SELECTION CRITERIA....................................................................................................................26
PROJECT PRIORITIES & PHASING...............................................................................................................26
SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL.........................................................................................................................26
TRAIL FUNDING SOURCES..........................................................................................................................27
6. ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS.....................................................................29
NEW DEVELOPMENT..................................................................................................................................30
MULTIMODAL TRAFFIC STUDIES.................................................................................................................30
TRANSPORTATION PLANNING.....................................................................................................................30
SIGNAGE.................................................................................................................................................30
APPENDIX 1: ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION OF THE REXBURG TRAILS
COMMITTEE..........................................................................................................34
APPENDIX 2 TRAIL EASEMENTS & TRAILS INT HE ROAD RIGHT OF WAY.....................36
APPENDIX 3: SUMMARY OF PLANS AND DOCUMENTS...........................................46
TRAILS OF MADISON COUNTY COMMITTEE................................................................................................46
REXBURG VISION 2020 COMPRESSIVE PLAN..............................................................................................46
ENVISION MADISON.................................................................................................................................47
HIGHWAY 33 PEDESTRIAN FACILITIES IMPROVEMENT STUDY......................................................................47
RESEARCH BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER STUDY: WALKABILITY...........................................................48
Prepared by:
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 1
1. INTRODUCTION
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 32 | INTRODUCTION
PLAN OVERVIEW
Trails offer both aesthetic and recreational opportunities,
as well as commuter options for traveling to and from
destinations within Rexburg. Residents who wish to walk
or bike to work, go for family outings, travel to school
or the university, will benefit from safe, connecting trails.
Research has shown that trails often help raise property
values, provide common space for social interactions, im-
prove community safety and encourage healthy lifestyles.
A high-quality trail system is a marker of a great communi-
ty. The Rexburg Trails Plan (referred hereafter as the Plan)
uses the term “trail” to describe shared use paths, multi-
use paths, multi-use trails, sidewalks, and hiking pedes-
trian paths designed for non-motorized usage. Sidewalks
or paths directly adjacent to roadways are included when
they provide a link between trails or between a trail and
a destination. Trail users may include but are not limit-
ed to: bicyclists, non-motorized scooters, in-line skaters,
users of other wheeled devices like Segways or electric
assist-bicycles, roller skaters, wheelchair users (both
Lastly, a trail system can help preserve the history of
Rexburg. As the city continues to grow and develop, pieces
of history are lost under new buildings and parking lots.
This Plan suggests the development of a “heritage trail”
which could help preserve the rich history and unearth
buried pieces of the past. A heritage trail on city sidewalks
within the core of the city should be developed to link these
historic sites in a comprehensive manner.
PLAN SCOPE & PUBLIC
INVOLVEMENT
This Plan has followed the work of previous plans, stud-
ies and documents; as well as public involvement in the
form of surveys, mapping activities and more. These past
efforts have spanned from 2012 to 2017.
Research activities have included:
• Assessment of existing walking and bicycling condi-
tions within the City of Rexburg, the City of Sugar City
and Madison County.
- Field assessment of missing gaps
• Evaluation of sidewalk connectivity, and conditions
within the City of Rexburg.
• Review of past trail planning efforts, specifically the
Trails of Madison County Committee
Public Outreach included:
• 2012 to 2014 Envision Madison
• 2017 Idaho Transportation Department sponsored
BYU-Idaho Engineering Project on Trails and Side-
walks
• 2017 BYU-Idaho Trails Study
• 2017 Public Mapping Activity
GOALS & OBJECTIVES
The Rexburg Trails Plan aims to develop a comprehensive
network of pedestrian and bicycle trails that link important
pedestrian generators, natural features, public facilities,
commercial centers, educational and business districts.
GOAL 1: INTEGRATED TRAIL NETWORK
• Support the development of an integrated trail net-
work connecting Rexburg neighborhoods to parks,
recreation areas, and community amenities such as
the Teton River corridor, BYU-Idaho, and downtown.
GOAL 2: TRAIL DEVELOPMENT AND REGIONAL
CONNECTIONS
• Provide a trail system that connects Rexburg to Sug-
ar City, Madison County and regionally significant
trails to local trails, and ensure that new development
and subdivisions connect to this system.
GOAL 3: ACCESS
• Develop a trail system for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Create a complementary system of on-road bicycle
routs for commuter, recreational, and touring enthu-
siasts.
GOAL 4: COMMUNITY LINKAGES
• Link trails to residential neighborhoods, community
facilities, parks, schools, the downtown, BYU-Idaho,
as well as other commercial and retail centers, and
place people want to go.
GOAL 5: INTIGRATED TRANSPORTATION
SYSTEM
• Ensure that the trail system connects with current
and future planned transportation systems. Ensure
that city departments develop at multi-modal strate-
gies to enhance transportation options for residents,
and to reduce the number of vehicles on city roads.
GOAL 6: AMENITIES
• Where appropriate, locate trailheads at or in conjunc-
tion with park sites, schools and other community
facilities to increase local access to the trail system.
Furnish trail systems with trail improvements that in-
clude interpretive and directional signage systems,
benches, drinking fountains, restrooms, parking and
staging areas and other services.
GOAL 7: PRESERVATION
• Provide trail access preserving the natural state of the
Teton River corridor.
• Preserve existing public right-of-way and other ease-
ments for future trails and access ways, particularly
power line and utility corridors.
non-motorized and motorized), walkers, and runners.
As part of the development of this Plan, staff analyzed
the existing street network and trails. The Plan recom-
mends improvements that will upgrade the existing sys-
tem where needed, fill in missing gaps, and connect to
schools, public facilities, local neighborhoods and busi-
nesses, as well as connecting the City of Rexburg’s Trail
System to nearby trail systems, namely Sugar City’s and
Madison County.
This Plan is intended to provide guidance for the devel-
opment of trails and trail connectivity for the next 30 to
40 years. This long view sets forth the vision which will
Figure 1. Trail Hierarchy Concept
require the support of residents, City Staff and elected
officials to implement and support.
VISION
This Plan proposes that the trails identified herein are part
of a hierarchical trail system that integrates regional trails
and county trails to the Rexburg Trail System. The Rexburg
Trail System is integral to neighborhoods and destinations,
both public and private, through an established network
of sidewalks which connect residences and businesses
to each other.
The recommended trail network connects established
neighborhoods to public and private amenities such as
parks, schools, higher education, and businesses. The Plan
also acknowledges resident’s desires for a trail network
along the Teton River; increased pedestrian safety; the
development of additional walking and bike paths to reduce
the number of vehicles on City roads; and to enhance
recreational opportunities.
REXBURG WELLNESS VISION
The City of Rexburg has developed a Vision for community
Wellness. The City believes that being active is being
healthy. All Rexburg residents should have access to high-
quality, clean, and safe park and recreation facilities. (2020
Vision). The City supports the development of an integrated
trail network connecting Rexburg neighborhoods to parks,
recreation areas, and community amenities to provide
residents with the tools to thrive. Living well is being well.
Further, The City of Rexburg believes that it should work
with community health partners, private and public entities
to promote healthy habits and lifestyles. Opportunities for
promoting healthy behaviors and practices can contribute
to the overall quality of life for our citizen’s. A healthy
population, with lower health costs, with less days lost to
illness, means greater worker and student productivity,
higher wages, higher educational attainment, and will make
Rexburg a more competitive city.
The US Surgeon General issued a “Call to Action” in 2001
concerning overweight and obesity. “Overweight and
obesity have reached nationwide epidemic proportions.
Both the prevention and treatment of overweight and
obesity and their associated health problems are important
public health goals.” This Plan can help address this
epidemic by providing residents with opportunities to
work towards achieving the Surgeon General’s goals
of: “Assisting Americans in… regular physical activity…
and encourage environmental changes that help prevent
overweight and obesity” (The Office of the Surgeon General
2001).
Regional Trails
Madison County
Trails
City of Sugar City
Trails
City of Rexburg
Trails
National Forest Service
Trails
BLM
Trails
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 5
2. EXISTING CONDITIONS
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 76 | EXISTING CONDITIONS
SUMMARY OF EXISTING
CONDITIONS
At a little over 10 square miles, Rexburg is geo-
graphically compact. However, within these bound-
aries is one of the more densely populated cities in
Idaho. Established neighborhoods provide an ex-
cellent foundation for the development of a com-
prehensive trail system connecting the Teton River
corridor with civic and private destinations.
The City currently has a small system of trails, lo-
cated mainly in its parks and along portions of the
Teton River. The most established trails located
within: Porter Park, Smith Park, Riverside Park and
Nature Parks. Many of these trails proved pleasant
walking opportunities, particularly in small loops.
But there are many gaps that need to be addressed,
as connections remain to be made between these
trails and homes, schools, churches and places of
business.
Many of the existing paved trails are in great con-
dition and feel safe and inviting to trail users; but
they do not provide larger community connections.
Topography, and private land ownership, presents a
challenge to trail development along the Teton Riv-
er.
The existing trail system poorly serves bicyclists, as
there are few striped bicycle lanes and many of the
paved paths in the parks are narrow, limiting shared
pedestrian and bicycle use.
Rapid population growth, due primarily to the growth
of Brigham Young University-Idaho, presents both
challenges and opportunities. Rexburg’s population
grew 37% between 2000 and 2017 (from 17,779 to
28,222). With few exceptions, single family hous-
ing has been suburban in nature. While several new
residential neighborhoods have been built around
the City, most of this growth has been in multi-fam-
ily community housing mostly within in the historic
street grid system. Single-student dormitory hous-
ing, supporting the university student population,
has been concentrated around the university in the
Pedestrian Emphasis Area.
EXISTING TRAILS
There are several types of trails in Rexburg: on-road
shoulders, sidewalks, on road bicycle lands, paved
park trails, access-ways and informal “demand” pe-
destrian trails.
There are pathways in some sections of Rexburg
that are designed as on-road shoulders, character-
ized by a 3’ to 6’ wide shoulder, on one or the other
side of the roadway. The shoulder is demarcated by
a wide fog line.
Sidewalks are distinguished from shoulder path-
ways in that they usually have a curb and are phys-
ically elevated from the roadway. Sidewalk connec-
tions for pedestrians are fairly comprehensive in the
downtown and in new neighborhoods (new devel-
opments are required to build sidewalks since ___).
In older sections of the city, sidewalks are absent
in many locations, as well as on the fringe of the
community.
Figure 2: City of Rexburg Annexation History
Bicycle lanes are located sporadically on roadways.
Bicycle lanes currently exist on: Pioneer Road, 2nd
North; portions of, 1st West, 2nd West, 1st North,
5th West, and 2nd East. Rexburg residents have
indicated that the wish to see improved and ad-
ditional bicycle lanes on identified routes through
town.
Paved trails are found in City Parks like: Nature,
Porter, Riverside, and Smith Parks; and along the
Teton River.
Access-ways are provide direct connections to
local roads, schools, parks and other community
destinations. Currently there is no requirement for
dedicated access-ways for new development.
CHALLENGES AND
OPPORTUNITIES
Residents of Rexburg have indicated, in Envision
Madison and again in 2017’s trail studies, that they
wish to see an expansion of the current trail system
to better connect the community. Schools, parks
and commercial nodes should be connected to
neighborhoods and apartments.
ACCESS
There are several small trail systems located in
parks and along the Teton River in the City of Rex-
burg. However, much of the sidewalk and bicycle
lane network is incomplete or nonexistent, making
it difficult to walk or bicycle to these trails. Many of
the existing trails lack amenities like lighting, sig-
nage, and benches to invite users.
LIMITED PUBLIC RIGHTS-OF-WAY AND
ENCROACHMENT
The City of Rexburg, like many well-established
communities, has the challenge of accommodating
and balancing the needs of different roadway uses
within limited public rights-of-way. Pedestrians and
bicyclists are often left without proper facilities. Even
more problematic is the issue of private property
encroachment into the public right-of-way, such as
a property owner placing trees, shrubs, fences, or
walls in the public right-of-way. This is particular-
ly true in older residential areas without sidewalks,
where there is no visual delineation between private
property and the public right-of-way. Although it is
within the City’s right to reclaim this space, it can
be politically challenging to do so, particularly if the
residents perceive that a trail or improved facility
will bring more people through the area.
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 98 | DESIGN GUIDELINES
3. DESIGN GUIDELINES
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 1110 | DESIGN GUIDELINES
PLAN CONCEPT
The Rexburg Trails Plan proposes to create a series of
interconnected trail routes throughout the City of Rex-
burg, which connect each other and to the City of Sugar
City and Madison County. This concept enables trail us-
ers to connect to most destinations on a variety of trails;
from nature trails to sidewalks and bicycle lanes to paved
shared use paths. This concept also allows recreational
trail users to create personal loops, depending on how
long or far they wish to travel.
Where trails are shown on the Conceptual Trails Map
along City streets, these trails should include both: a sep-
arated pedestrian path within the public right-of-way and
a bike lane along the street shoulder. The ideal layout, by
road classification, is shown on the following pages in the
street cross sections.
DEFINITIONS
Trails. The term ‘trail’ is used to describe shared use paths,
multi-use trails, sidewalks, and hiking pedestrian paths
designed for non-motorized usage.
Sidewalks. Sidewalks, or paths, are directly adjacent to
roadways are included when they provide a link between
trails or between a trail and a destination.
Trail users may include but are not limited to: bicyclists,
non-motorized scooters, in-line skaters, users of other
wheeled devices like Segways or electric assist-bicycles,
roller skaters, wheelchair users (both non-motorized
and motorized), walkers, runners, and, in some cases,
equestrians and non-motorized water activities.
REGIONAL TRAILS
Regional trails connect Madison County (and Rexburg)
to adjacent counties and communities. Many of these
connections need to still be made to local communities.
One of these trails is the Yellowstone/Grand Teton Rail to
Trail which connects Ashton to Driggs. There are several
established trails in the Big Hole Mountains which are
maintained by the BLM and National Forest Service which
could connect to Rexburg through the Madison County
trail systems.
COMMUNITY TRAILS
Community trails link important Rexburg land uses and
areas of interest, including retail areas, schools, parks,
transit centers, churches, employment centers, and other
desirable areas. They also connect users to adjacent
communities and the regional trail system.
Most community trails in Rexburg are off-street paths
with separate facilities (i.e., a sidewalk or pathway for
pedestrians and on-street bike lanes for bicyclists) that
should meet State and Federal standards. Safety for
bicyclists and pedestrians on these routes is important, as
they often parallel or intersect busy roadways. However,
some community trails follow neighborhood streets,
in which case pedestrians are accommodated with a
sidewalk or shared use path and bicyclists share the
roadway with vehicles.
LOCAL TRAILS
Local trails primarily serve pedestrians with safe and
direct connections to and within local features, such as
schools, parks, and natural areas. Some local trails may
also be appropriate for bicycling and skating. There are
three categories of local trails: City Trails, Natural Trails
and Access-ways.
City Trails
City trails are typically paved or made of a smooth surface
to accommodate most trail users. These trails are typically
found in developed parks and recreational areas, like
Porter, Smith, Nature or Riverside Park.
Natural Trails
Natural trails are typically found in undeveloped parks
and natural areas and aim to provide a natural outdoor
experience. These trails are usually for pedestrians only,
but some trails could be open to bikes. Most of the trails
in Nature Park and along the Teton River are, or will be,
of this variety.
Access-ways
Access-ways are specifically off-street path or way which is
intended for the primary use of pedestrians and bicyclists.
These routes are intended to provide safe, direct, and
convenient connections to reduce out-of-direction travel
and make walking and bicycling easier.
Access-ways can also be unique. They can be stairs,
bridge, alley or passage connecting gardens, courtyards,
or other urban spaces.
TRAIL DESIGN
The following cross sections illustrate standard treat-
ments for the primary trail design opportunities in Rex-
burg. There are also a few innovative designs, like swales
(shallow, wide depressions adjacent to roadways and
trails that collect storm water runoff) and other “green
street” concepts, that can be used in some situations.
This section should be supplemented with other trail de-
sign documents as they become available.
Trail Standards
Rexburg’s standard for trails is an 10’ paved asphalt trails,
(3” asphalt over 6” roadbase) with a 1’ gravel shoulder on
each side, within a 12’ wide easement. Permanent signs
with a trail map shall be erected at each terminus of the
trail. Mileage and trail name signs shall be posted at 1/2
mile intervals facing both directions. Trails and signage
should integrate with Madison County trails standards.
Bikeable Community
Rexburg’s standard for bike lanes is a 4’ painted striped
lane on both sides of a road designated as a bike route.
The outside stripe shall be a minimum of 4’ from any
parking lane, and a minimum 2’ from the road shoulder
or gutter. Permanent bike route signs shall be posted at
1/4 mile intervals facing both directions. Bicycle warning
signs for motorists shall be posted at 1/2 mile intervals.
Walkable Community
A walkable community is defined in this plan in terms of
recreation to mean integrated City design standards that
promote walking for recreation, as an alternative means
of transportation, and as a way to orient buildings and
uses toward the street to create a comfortable, attractive
streetscape.
Rexburg’s standard for a walkable community is to in-
clude sidewalks (min. 5’ wide) on both sides of the street
through all new and existing development. Sidewalks and
their intersections with driveways and roads shall be ADA
(Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible and contin-
uous between intersections. Sidewalks shall not be al-
lowed to dead end into an unpaved surface or undevel-
oped area. Buildings and parking shall be designed to
welcome pedestrians and make access to buildings safe.
City blocks shall be designed with numerous intersec-
tions and access points for more direct routes.
10' WIDTH
2.5" PLANT MIX ASPHALT
3.5" OF 3/4" CRUSH
12" GRANULAR BORROW
12' WIDTH
PATH CROSS SECTIONANO SCALE
Trail Design Types Community Trail Local Trail
On-Street Off-Street City Trail Natural Trail Access-way
Facility
Type
Sidewalk/
pathway
Shared Use
Path
Shared Use
Path
Shared Use
Path
Shared Use
Path
Stairs,
Incline,
bridge,
alley, etc.
Bicycle Lane
Shared
Roadway
Users Bicyclists Bicyclists Bicyclists Bicyclists Bicyclists Depends
on Facility
Type Pedestrians Pedestrians Pedestrians Pedestrians
Pedestrians
Wheelchairs Wheelchairs Wheelchairs Wheelchairs
Baby Strollers Baby Strollers Baby Strollers Baby Strollers
Skaters Skaters Skaters Skaters
Width 5' to 12'
Sidewalk
8- to 12' 8- to 12' 6' to 12' 7', 4'
shoulders
Depends
on Facility
Type 5' to 6' Bike
Lane
5' in
Greenways
Surface Concreate Paved or other
smooth rolling
surface to
accommodate
all trail users
Paved or other
smooth rolling
surface to
accommodate
all trail users
Earth, gravel,
wood shavers,
or other soft
surface
material
Concrete or
asphalt
Depends
on Facility
Type Asphalt Gravel in
Greenways
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 1312 | DESIGN GUIDELINES
MAJOR ARTERIAL STREET TYPICAL LANDSCAPE SECTION
TYPICAL SECTION WITH BIKE PATH
SECTION
OVERVIEW
MINOR ARTERIAL STREET
TYPICAL WITH BIKE LANE
SECTION
OVERVIEW
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 1514 | DESIGN GUIDELINES
MINOR ARTERIAL STREET WITH BIKE PATH
TYPICAL WITH BIKE PATH
SECTION
OVERVIEW
RESIDENTIAL COLLECTOR STREET
TYPICAL WITH BIKE LANE (OPTION A)
SECTION
OVERVIEW
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 1716 | DESIGN GUIDELINES
RESIDENTIAL COLLECTOR STREET
TYPICAL WITH BIKE LANE (OPTION B)
SECTION
OVERVIEW
ACCESS-WAYS
Access-ways provide direct connections for trail users
to schools, parks, community centers, retail areas,
neighborhoods, and other trails. They are intended to be
short, direct connections to reduce unnecessary out-of-
direction travel for bicyclists and pedestrians. Access-ways
should have a 15’ right-of-way with a centered 7’ wide
paved surface. The access-way should not exceed 5%
slope to accommodate all users.
TRAIL ROADWAY CROSSINGS
Like most trails in built urban areas, City of Rexburg trails
must cross roadways at certain points. These roadway
crossings may be designed at-, below-, or above-grade.
At-grade crossings create a potentially high level of conflict
between trail users and motorists. However, well-designed
crossings have not historically posed a safety problem, as
evidenced by the thousands of successful trails around
the United States with at-grade crossings. Designing safe
grade crossings is a key to safe implementation of this Plan.
In some cases, a required trail crossing may be so
dangerous or expensive (e.g., to build an undercrossing
or overcrossing) as to affect the feasibility of the entire
alignment. However, in most cases, trail crossings can
be properly designed at-grade to a reasonable degree of
safety and to meet existing traffic and safety standards.
Evaluation of trail crossings involves analysis of vehicular
and trail user traffic pattern, including speeds, street width,
traffic volumes (average daily traffic, peak hour traffic), line
of sight, and trail user profile (age distribution, destinations).
Virtually all crossings fit into one of three basic categories:
• Type 1: Unprotected/Marked Unprotected/marked
crossings include trail crossings of residential,
collector, and sometimes major arterial streets or
railroad tracks.
• Type 2: Route Users to Existing Intersection Trails that
emerge near existing intersections may be routed to
these locations, provided that sufficient protection is
provided at the existing intersection.
• Type 3: Signalized/Controlled Trail crossings that
require signals or other control measures due to traffic
volumes, speeds, and trail usage.
This plan suggests that further work be done to identify the
most appropriate crossing options as trails alignments are
developed further. These crossings must be verified and/
or refined through the actual engineering and construction
document stage.
TRAIL FEATURES
Crossing features for all roadways include warning signs
both for vehicles and trail users. Signage should be highly
visible; catching the attention of motorists accustomed
to roadway signs may require additional alerting devices
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 1918 | DESIGN GUIDELINES
such as a flashing light, roadway striping or changes in
pavement texture.
Care must be taken not to place too many signs at
crossings lest they overwhelm the user and lose their
impact. Directional signing may be useful for trail users
and motorists alike. For motorists, a sign reading “Bicycle
Trail Xing” along with an City of Rexburg trail emblem or
logo helps both warn and promote use of the trail itself.
For trail users, directional signs and street names at
crossings help direct people to their destinations. The
directional signing should impart a unique theme, so trail
users know which trail they are following and where it goes.
A central information installation at trailheads and
major crossroads also helps users find their way and
acknowledge the rules of the trail.
The actual crosswalk striping is a matter of local and
State preference and may be accompanied by pavement
treatments to help warn and slow motorists. The
effectiveness of crosswalk striping is highly related to local
customs and regulations. In communities where motorists
do not typically yield to pedestrians in crosswalks,
additional measures may be required.
AMENITIES
There are many amenities that make a trail inviting to the
user. Below are some common items that can make a trail
system stand out.
Water Fountains and Bicycle Parking
Water fountains provide water for people (and pets, in some
cases) and bicycle racks allow trail users to safely park
their bikes if they wish to stop along the way, particularly
at parks and other desirable destinations.
Pedestrian-Scale Lighting and Furniture
Pedestrian-scale lighting improves safety and enables the
trail to be used year-round. It also enhances the aesthetic
of the trail. Lighting fixtures should be consistent with
other light fixtures in the city. Providing benches at key
rest areas can encourage people of all ages to use the trail
by ensuring that they have a place to rest along the way.
Maps and Signage
A comprehensive signing system makes a trail system
stand out. Informational kiosks with maps at trailheads
and other pedestrian generators can provide enough
information for someone to use the trail system with little
introduction – perfect for areas with high out of-area
visitation rates as well as the local citizens.
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 21
4. RECOMMENDED TRIAL NETWORK
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 2322 | RECOMMENDED TRAIL NETWORK
RECOMMENDED STRATEGY
The recommended trail network, herein proposed, fulfills
the vision and goals of this Plan. It provided a compre-
hensive network of trails that connects to schools, parks,
community centers, business districts, historical sites
and natural resources. It connects to Rexburg’s imme-
diate neighbor, the City of Sugar City; and to portions of
unincorporated Madison County.
The following details of the network should be noted:
• The Conceptual Trails Plan Map includes both exist-
ing (shown as solid lines) and recommended trails
(shown as dashed lines). Many trail projects call for
improvements to existing but substandard facilities.
• Some trails shown are largely conceptual. These
conceptual trails need to be further studied and de-
signed. The location of the trail may change as a re-
sult.
• Some sidewalks are shown as part of the trail system
because they fulfill the needs of pedestrian circulation
and connections in an already “built” environment.
• The Conceptual Trails Plan Map shows trail loca-
tions. Where trails are shown, the expectation is that
a complete street with pedestrian path and on road
bike lane will be built.
DEVELOPMENT
Many of the trails shown on the Conceptual Trails
Map, particularly local trails located along road-
ways or intended as accessways, will be developed
over time by City of Rexburg property owners and
new development, much like the sidewalk system
that has been developed. In some cases, the City
will able to require the property owner to construct
the trail as part of the development review process.
In other cases, the City will need to work with the
property owner to ensure the City can develop the
trail itself in the future.
24 | Rexburg Trails Master Plan REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 25
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26 | Rexburg Trails Master Plan REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 27
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28 | Rexburg Trails Master Plan REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 29
5. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 3130 | IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY
REXBURG TRAILS COMMITTEE
In order to implement the policies and objectives identified
in this Plan it is recommended that the City of Rexburg
establish an autonomous, five-member, Rexburg Trails
Committee which will assume the responsibilities of
planning and developing: alternative, non-mechanized
transportation paths, promote the development of green
spaces and green vegetation, help mitigate damage
caused by flooding along the rivers of the county, and
advise the Rexburg City Council relative to trails and
greenways.
This five-member committee would represent the City
of Rexburg within the current Trails of Madison County
Committee. It is recommended that Rexburg City Council
adopt the proposed by-laws contained in Appendix __
to establish this committee (See Appendix __ for the
proposed by-laws of the Rexburg Trails Committee.)
TRAIL IMPROVEMENT SELECTION CRITERIA
With the goal of developing a high-quality system of trails,
improvements must meet the residents’ expectations.
There are essentially two types of improvements for the
Rexburg trail network.
Develop New Facilities
New facility provisions are needed for regional trails,
community trail corridors, local trails, and to connect
residential and commercial areas if:
There are no existing facilities;
• Facilities currently only serve one user group but are
intended to serve multiple user groups;
• In parks, no ADA compliant facilities are available.
• Upgrade Existing Facilities
• Facilities will need to be upgraded if not constructed
to Federal and State standards, have obstructions, or
are in poor condition.
SELECTION CRITERIA
There are four different categories of trails, but three
different sets of selection and ranking criteria (accessways
are not included due to their development requirement).
Depending on the type of trail, the criteria include (100
total points possible):
• Ease of Implementation (25 points): How difficult will
it be to implement this project? This criteria takes into
account cost, topographical, environmental, political,
and economic constraints.
• User Generators (20 points): How many user
generators does the project connect to within ¼ - ½
miles of the project, such as schools, parks, transit
centers, employment and commercial districts,
churches, etc.? Relative to other projects, does this
serve special needs populations, like children and
the elderly?
• Connectivity (25 points): To what degree does this
project fill in a missing gap in the trail system?
• Hazard Mitigation (20 points): To what degree does
this project mitigate safety problems, such as speed,
road width, and dangerous roadway crossings?
• Equity (10 points): Have projects been evenly
dispersed throughout the city? Is this project in an
under-served area?
PROJECT PRIORITIES AND PHASING
Projects in each category should be ranked based on the
weighted scoring system and selection criteria described
previously. Project scores should be based on information
obtained from City Staff, the Trails Committee, Elected
Officials and the Public. In addition, site visits and field
work should be part of the evaluation process.
Projects below have been grouped by trail classification.
It is recommended that the Rexburg Trails Committee
determine the prioritization for these trails based upon
this data contained in this Plan. Trail projects should be
categorized with the following time frames:
• 1 to 5 years
- These include projects are the top priority trail
projects for short-term project implementation and
are targeted for completion in the next five years.
• 5 to 10 years
- These include projects are priority trail projects
for short-term project implementation, but which
may require additional funding to complete outside
the normal City budgeting process.
• 10 to 25 years
These projects are mid-term projects planned for
implementation between ten and 25 years. These
projects comprise the bulk of the trail system.
• 25 + years
- These projects are long-term projects
recommended for implementation between the
next 25 and 50 years from Plan adoption. These
are projects that generally supplement the trail
system or may provide potential trails over a
longer period of time as land uses and regional
planning boundaries change.
SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL
Nationwide, communities are developing programs to
improve the safety and ability of children to bicycle and
walk to school. Federal money may be available in the
future as a part of the transportation budget for projects
that improve direct access to schools. This Plan includes
a trail connection to every school in the City of Rexburg.
Complementary to that would be the development of
a local safe routes to school program. The toolbox of
potential solutions includes:
• Signal timing modifications
• Curb extensions and median islands
• Traffic calming
• Markings and signage
• Trails, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and other facility
improvements
• Crosswalks
• Crossing guard programs
• Safe routes to school maps
• Escorted bike and walk groups
• Educational safety curricula
• Outreach programs to encourage safe driving.
TRAIL FUNDING SOURCES
There are a variety of potential funding sources including
local, State, regional, and Federal funding programs that
can be used to construct or augment the proposed trail
improvements. Most of the these are competitive and
involve the completion of extensive applications with clear
documentation of the project need, costs, and benefits.
Local funding for these projects would typically come from
the City of Rexburg and/or potential future bonds or other
local revenues.
Funding Sources
User Fees
General Obligation Bonds
Lease Revenue Bonds
Urban Renewal
Impact Fees
Grants, Foundations, Donations
The table above summarizes public funding sources for
Rexburg trails. Some of these funds are restricted to the
type of improvements that qualify for assistance. It is
important to note that many of the funding sources are
highly competitive and impossible to determine exactly
which projects will be funded by which funding sources.
Residents and other community members are excellent
resources for garnering support and enthusiasm for a trail
and the City should work with volunteers to substantially
reduce trail implementation and maintenance costs. Local
schools, community groups, or a group of dedicated
neighbors may use the project as a project for the year,
possibly working with a local designer or engineer. Work
parties can be formed to help clear the right-of-way where
needed. A local construction company can donate or
discount services. Other opportunities for implementation
will appear over time, such as grants and private funds.
The City should look to its residents for additional funding
ideas to expedite the completion of the trail system.
For detailed information regarding funding sources, please
refer to the Rexburg Funding Chapter contained in the
Rexburg Parks Master Plan.
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 33
6. ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
34 | Rexburg Trails Master Plan REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 35
cost efficiencies when preparing and prioritizing public-
ly-funded transportation capital improvements.
When asphalt resurfacing is scheduled, sidewalk and
curb ramp upgrades are automatically required by the
federal Americans with Disabilities Act, which offers an
opportunity to include improvements identified in this
Plan. Asphalt resurfacing also offers an opportunity to
re-channelize an arterial street to include bikeways identi-
fied in this Plan. If infrastructure improvements are sched-
uled on a corridor in an area that has been identified for
placemaking opportunities, efficiencies may be gained in
constructing both the transportation and placemaking
improvements, provided funding can be allocated for all
of the work.
SIGNAGE
A comprehensive signage and directional system should
be developed to inform and educate users about the
trail and pathway system. This program should include
a unique sign that delineates the City of Rexburg Trail
network theme. Opportunities for interpretive information
could include the history of the City of Rexburg and its
early pioneers; historic sites, information about native flo-
ra and fauna; geologic formations; bicycle and pedestrian
safety and awareness; history of the Teton and Snake riv-
ers and native populations. An integrated system of inter-
pretive signs or markers should be developed on histor-
ic trail to guide, and provide information about, heritage
sites. Comprehensive and innovative signing systems
make trail networks outstanding. Signs should also be
created to warn either motorists of bicyclists and pedes-
trians or caution bicyclists and pedestrians of oncoming
motor vehicles. Kiosks could be placed along some trails
and at trailheads that include a map and other helpful
information about the route, safety, and the city
In addition to implementing the proposed trails discussed
in the previous chapter, the following action items are rec-
ommended to ensure the success of the Rexburg Trails
Plan.
NEW DEVELOPMENT
The City of Rexburg should develop and amend the City
Development Code to ensure that trail portions are built
to recommended standards as part of the land use per-
mitting process. City officials and planning boards should
be educated about City of Rexburg trail standards and
trail siting guidelines to ensure that trails are included in
the development and are constructed properly.
When a new subdivision is proposed, the City should ac-
quire trails corresponding to the routes outlined on the
Trails Plan trail map. In this process, two types of trail
routes should be acquired: easements through private
property, and on public road right of ways.
Trails on easements through private or common areas in
the subdivision: These easements should be granted to
the City as part of the subdivision process. The City is
the holder of these easements and interference with them
can only be as the result of City Council approval after a
public hearing.
Trails on the public road right of way: These trails should
be developed on the shoulders of streets and roads in the
City. Since this is public right of way the City reserves the
right to ensure their availability for public use.
See Appendixes ___ for proposed trail easement guide-
lines and ordinance text.
MULTIMODAL TRAFFIC STUDIES
Where new development is proposed the City of Rexburg
Public Works Department should require a Multimod-
al Traffic Study which in addition to motorized vehicular
movement should include the impacts of Pedestrians and
Bicyclists, including:
• General accommodation and facility design as it per-
tains to Pedestrians and Bicyclists
• Access to buildings and other attractions or ameni-
ties for Pedestrians and Bicyclists
• Bicycle lanes and sidewalk connections to routes
and trails
TRANSPORTATION PLANNING
In order to maximize benefit and minimize cost, it is im-
portant to look for opportunities to take advantage of
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 37
APPENDIX
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 3938 | APPENDIX
APPENDIX 1: ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION OF THE
REXBURG TRAILS COMMITTEE
ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION
OF THE REXBURG TRAILS COMMITTEE
January 26, 2018
I. PURPOSE. The purpose of the Rexburg Trails Committee (the Committee) is to:
A. Promote alternative, non-mechanized transportation paths within the City of Rexburg, Idaho. This would specifically
include pedestrian and bike paths.
B. Promote the development of green spaces and green vegetation with in the City for public enjoyment and recreation.
This would specifically include the development of public pathways and parks along the water ways (natural and man
made) in the City. It would also include developing connection paths between various “islands” of recreation such as
public parks and schools. The committee would be responsible for administering the Tree City Ordinances within the
county in the absence of such a committee designated by another public entity.
C. Advise the City Council relative to trails and greenways.
II. OBJECTIVE. The Committee will attempt to achieve the purposes specified by doing the following:
A. Following the Trails Plan for trails and greenways within the City of Rexburg.
B. Develop, facilitate, and coordinate projects to achieve the Plan.
C. Develop, facilitate, and coordinate public education for cyclists, pedestrians, and citizens in general regarding
the purpose of the committee.
D. Identify and seek political and funding support for the projects that have been identified. This would include fund
raising activities and identifying grants.
E. Develop, facilitate, and coordinate projects to maintain existing trail and greenway infrastructure.
F. Promote the renovation of existing roads and bridges to accommodate pedestrian and bicycle usage.
G. Promote the inclusion of pedestrian and bicycle usage in the design of future roads and bridges.
III. RESPONSIBILITIES. The Committee shall be responsible for:
A. Achieving the purposes and objectives specified.
B. Advising the City of Rexburg regarding the purposes and objectives
C. Reporting to the City Council on the progress in achieving the purposes and objectives on a regular basis.
AUTHORITY. The committee derives its authority by specific authorization Rexburg City Council.
I. ORGANIZATION
A. Committee members:
1. The committee shall consist of FIVE members, each serving a two-year term.
2. The Rexburg City Council shall the members, one being a representative from BYU-Idaho.
3. Attempts shall be made to stagger the terms of committee members.
4. The committee members shall be residents of the City of Rexburg or be associated with businesses located
within the City.
B. Chairman
1. The chairman shall be selected by and from the committee. The term of office shall be for one year. It is
anticipated that the Vice Chairman from the previous year be elected to the Chairmanship.
2. The Chairman shall arrange and conduct all meetings of the committee
3. The Chairman shall prepare the agendas for the committee meetings.
4. The Chairman shall be the official spokesman for the committee. This duty does not preempt the duties of
the Mayor (or designated City Staff) duties as the public spokespersons.
C. Vice Chairman.
1. The chairman selected by and from the committee. The term of office shall be for one year. The Vice
Chairman shall assume all responsibilities of the Chairman in his absence.
D. Secretary
1. The secretary shall be selected by and from the committee. The term of office shall be for one year.
2. The Secretary shall record attendance and minutes of all meetings.
II. MEETINGS
A. At least 4 committee meetings shall be held each year. Due to the cyclical nature of the duties, the meetings may be
more frequent during some parts of the year than during others.
B. All meetings will comply with the Idaho Open Meeting Law
C. Meetings shall be announced to the committee five calendar days prior the date scheduled.
D. Minutes shall be taken at each meeting and distributed to committee members prior to the next meeting.
E. A quorum of 3 or more members of the committee present at any regularly scheduled meeting may transact busi-
ness.
F. A majority vote of those present is required to carry any voting matter.
G. The Chairman may call special meetings when in the best interest of the purposes and objectives of the committee.
These special meetings will comply with the Idaho Open Meeting Law. Minutes of these meeting must be taken and
preserved.
H. The committee shall conduct business according to standard parliamentary procedures.
Ratified, approved and accepted by:
____________________________________________________________
Mayor of the City of Rexburg Date
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 41
40 | APPENDIX
APPENDIX 2 TRAIL EASEMENTS & TRAILS IN THE ROAD
RIGHT OF WAY
ENVISION MADISON PARKS & RECREATION FINDINGS
The City of Rexburg has a strong commitment to preserving ways for people to travel without the automobile. Our
system of trails, paths, and bike paths is used for essential transportation to schools and work, as well as for recreation
and pleasure. The City Trails Committee has responsibility for identifying and designing trails.
HOW THE TRAILS ARE PLANNED, ACQUIRED, BUILT AND MAINTAINED
The basic trail system is an approved part of the Comprehensive Plan, as defined in the Rexburg Trails Plan. Most of
the trail system has been identified. When a new subdivision is proposed, the City acquires trails corresponding to the
routes outlined on the Trails Plan trail map. In this process, two types of trail routes are acquired, easements through
private property and on public road right of ways.
Trails on easements through private or common areas in the subdivision: These easements are granted to the City
as part of the subdivision process. The City is the holder of these easements and interference with them can only be as
the result of City Council approval after a public hearing.
Trails on the public road right of way: These trails have been developed on the shoulders of streets and roads in the
City. Since this is public right of way the City reserves the right to ensure their availability for public use. Interference with
them is legal only after securing an encroachment permit. The City reserves the right to remove an interference with
public use of road shoulders, including any plants that grow over the trails.
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 43
42 | APPENDIX
APPENDIX 3: SUMMARY OF PLANS AND DOCUMENTS
TRAILS OF MADISON COUNTY COMMITTEE
The community group, Trails of Madison County, had an ambitious vision for a connected trail network throughout the
County. This includes further development of greenbelt trails adjacent to the Teton River and around Rexburg.
The Comprehensive Plan proposes extending the traditional street grid as new areas develop, a “green grid” or network
of bike lanes, trails, parks, and open spaces should similarly be extended. Specifically, the Teton River is highlighted in
the Comprehensive Plan as a unique and precious resource for the community. The Teton River Park, much of it left in
its natural state, will occupy a portion of the floodplain. The bike and jogging path within the river park could tie into a
bike system that encircles Rexburg and connects new and existing neighborhoods to community destinations.
The following is a list of specific trail recommendations for Rexburg:
• Encourage the utilization of areas of the eastern portion of the City where topography, floodplains, steep slopes, or
narrow drainages make development difficult for the alignment of new trails.
• Encourage the development of a “green grid” of sidewalks, bicycle facilities, and trails connecting new and existing
neighborhoods, parks, neighborhood centers, open spaces, and recreation resources throughout the City.
• Support the development of a greenbelt trail system along the Teton River corridor, encircling the City, and connecting
to Sugar City.
• Encourage investigation of sources for funding the development of trails throughout Rexburg.
• Support the development of parking areas in appropriate places to increase access to trails throughout the city.
• Work with local civic organizations to encourage community events along the City’s trail systems to raise awareness
and funding for additional trails.
• Encourage redevelopment of underutilized or vacated industrial lands along the Teton River as opportunities arise.
REXBURG VISION 2020 COMPRESSIVE PLAN
Chapter 8 of the Rexburg Vision 2020 Compressive Plan outlines the following Objectives and Policies:
Objective 2.2: Aspire to provide safe and connected pedestrian and bicycle facilities throughout the City.
Policy: Encourage the development of a “green grid” plan identifying pedestrian and bicycle routes connecting
neighborhoods to community amenities and destinations including: schools, parks, churches, downtown, BYU-I,
the Teton River, and neighborhood commercial areas.
Policy: Work with landowners to construct sidewalks where they do not presently exist, whenever possible.
Policy: When resources allow it, identify areas with high pedestrian volumes (downtown and around BYU-I),
and evaluate the need and possibility for added crosswalks or other types of pedestrian crossing treatments.
These may include pedestrian-activated flashing lights, pavement treatments, or pedestrian signals.
Policy: Encourage the Trails of Madison County organization to implement the Madison County Trails Master
Plan and Greenbelt Plan.
Policy: When appropriate, identify and prioritize improvements to the green grid, sidewalk, and trails system
to include in a City -wide Capital Improvement Plan.
Objective 3.1: Support improvement in the safety of all city streets and intersections for use by all modes of
transportation.
Policy: Develop and complete a “safe route to school” street plan. Discourage high speeds and heavy traffic
on these streets. Work with school district committees to develop safe route to school routes.
Chapter 10 of the Rexburg Vision 2020 Compressive Plan outlines the following Objectives and Policies:
Support the development of an integrated trail network connecting Rexburg neighborhoods to parks, recreation
areas, and community amenities such as the Teton River corridor, BYU-I, and downtown.
Objective 2.1: Support and encourage the development of a “green grid” plan identifying key pedestrian and
bicycle routes throughout the City.
Policy: Encourage developers to set aside land for trails as new development occurs.
Policy: When appropriate, the City should identify and prioritize alignments for future bicycle routes to be
included in a City-wide Capital Improvement Plan.
Policy: Cooperate with the Trails of Madison County organization to implement the Madison County Trails
Master Plan and Greenbelt Plan.
Policy: Explore options for funding sources for the development of future trails systems, as identified in the
Trails of Madison County Trails Master Plan, and in this Comprehensive Plan Chapter, at the appropriate time.
ENVISION MADISON
In 2012 Madison County, Sugar City and Rexburg residents participated in a long-range planning effort called Envision
Madison. Led by a citizen committee, Envision Madison asked residents “What do you want Madison County to look
like in 40 years?” Envision Madison explored planning scenarios based on growth projections. Envision Madison also
identified several areas of concern to residents of which Recreation, Economic Growth and Community Relations with
BYU-Idaho were of the greatest concerns. Three sub-committees were formed to address these concerns. The following
information was generated from the Envision Madison Process as it pertains to pedestrian and bicycle mobility:
• Residents were asked to rank in order of preference which mode of transportation should be the highest priority
for future public investment.
- Bike and walking paths: 37%
- More and wider roads: 33%
- A bus system: 30%
• Residents were surveyed to find out how much emphasis should be placed on developing bike and walking trails
in the community. Their responses were:
- Bike paths and walking trails should be created to provide access to local parks and to get around town: 58%
- Bike paths and walking trails should be created primarily to connect regional recreation areas: 25%
- Trails should mostly be in the form of bike lanes on roads for commuting: 9%
- No trails should be constructed: 8%
• Residents were asked how important Expanding the Trail Network was:
- Very Important: 30%
- Important: 29%
- Somewhat Important: 24%
- Not Important: 17%
• Residents were asked how important providing more opportunities for bike/walk commutes:
- Very Important: 37%
- Important: 32%
- Somewhat Important: 19%
- Not Important: 12%
Envision Madison explored strategies whereby the community and BYU-Idaho could add value to each other.
• Residents ranked on a scale from 1 to 10 (10 being Extremely Important, 1 Not At All Important) “Develop more
walking and bike paths so not as many students need cars” as 7.4.
• Residents ranked on a scale from 1 to 10 (10 being Very Significant Concern, 1 Being Not A Concern For Me At
All) “Significance to me personally”:
- Increased traffic congestion: 7.2
- Safety for the large pedestrian population: 6.8
HIGHWAY 33 PEDESTRIAN FACILITIES IMPROVEMENT STUDY
The Idaho Transportation Department commissioned an engineering team from Brigham Young University-Idaho to
identify, analyze and propose improvements to the most relevant travel paths for both bicyclists and pedestrians within
Rexburg, Sugar City and Madison County. Paths were identified through a combined effort with local officials, residents
and BYU-Idaho students.
The objective of the project was to 1) come up with paths around the cities of Rexburg and Sugar City that are commonly
used throughout the year, 2) determine whether or not they meet the ADA requirements, 3) provide a cost estimate for
REXBURG TRAILS MASTER PLAN | 45
44 | APPENDIX
the selected paths to satisfy ADA requirements, and 4) incorporate these paths as a list of recommended projects that
would be implemented in the future projects of the city.
A survey was conducted as part of the study. The following questions were asked:
1. Do you prefer to walk or bike around town?
2. Select which destinations are most important to be able to walk to: Restaurants, Parks, Madison County Library,
Grocery Store, Campus, or Other Recreation (The Craze, Fat Cats, Theater, etc...)?
3. How far are you willing to walk to a destination: 0 - 0.5 miles, 0.5 - 1.0 mile, 1.0 - 1.5 miles, 1.5 - 2.0 miles, or more
than 2.0 miles?
4. If there was a consistent bike path through town would you use it?
5. And an input box for additional comments and/or suggestions about the sidewalks and bicycle paths in Rexburg
was included.
The results from the surveys along with information obtained from talking with local school officials and bus driver
coordinators were used to select the routes (as it pertained to Safe Routes to Schools). The following trails were identified:
1. University Village to Rexburg Rapids
2. Kennedy Elementary School to Rexburg Rapids
3. Hidden Valley Park to Madison Library
4. Mesa Falls Apartments to Porter Park
5. Smith Park to Kershaw Intermediate School (Sugar City)
6. Water Tower to Madison Senior High School
7. Valley Country Store to N Yellowstone Highway
RESEARCH BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER STUDY: WALKABILITY
BYU-Idaho’s Research Business Development Center conducted a study from April to July 2017 on Walkablity within
Madison County. This team created a detailed Geographic Information System (GIS) map of existing sidewalk and trail
conditions within Rexburg and Sugar City, surveyed residents and students to discover their biking and walking habits
to ascertain future trail priorities and looked at best practices for municipal trail systems employed by other cities and
states in the United States. Some key finding were:
1. 94% of people in Rexburg walk, 42% run, and 36% bike. For the 36% of people who bike, 70% of them bike for
leisure and recreation, while the remaining bike for commuting and other reasons such as running errands. Of the 94%
of people who walk, 51% reported that they walk for leisure. The remainder walk for other purposes such as exercise
or commuting. Of the 42% of people who run, 62% of people do it for recreation.
2. 84% of people said they were willing to walk up to 1.5 miles from their home to a destination such as a store. Only
5% of people are willing to walk more than two miles for commuting purposes. However, 11% of the same responses
will walk more than two miles for recreation. 56% respondents reported that they are willing to bike up to 10 miles for
recreation or commuting, while 9% say they are willing to go over 10 miles. The remaining 35% of respondents reported
that biking for recreation or commuting does not apply to them.
3. During the winter months, walking, biking, and running all declined. Walking was the main activity with 25% of the
respondents walking daily, 18% multiple times a week, 15% weekly, 11% monthly, and 31% did not walk at all for
recreation or commuting. It was reported that 31% of the walking responses do not walk during the winter months.
4. During the winter, only about 2% of 154 respondents said that they biked on a weekly or monthly basis.
5. Walking is the most popular activity for either recreation or commuting throughout the year in Rexburg.