Bike Hike Trail Ph 2 SAFE-TEA Grant App
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MEMORANDUM
September 22, 2005
TO:
The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM:
Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager
SUBJECT: SAFE-TEA Grant Application for Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail (Phase 2)
The Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail Project is nearly 5 miles of 10-foot wide paved, off-road trail
along Iowa 32 from just north of US 20 (Dodge Street) to the planned extension of the
Dubuque County Heritage Trail just east of the intersection of US 52/1owa 386 (John
Deere Road).
Planning Services Manager Laura Carstens recommends City Council approval of a
SAFE-TEA Statewide Transportation Enhancements grant application in the amount of
$249,288 for Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail Project. The local match of
$106,812 would be provided by the City's budgeted ORA distribution of $178,020 for
this project.
I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council
approval.
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Michael C. Van Milligen
MCVM/jh
Attachment
cc: Barry Lindahl, Corporation Counsel
Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager
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MEMORANDUM
September 21, 2005
FROM:
Michael Van Milligen, City Manager
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager ~
TO:
SUBJECT: SAFE-TEA Grant Application for Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail (Phase 2)
Introduction
This memorandum presents for City Council review and approval, an application to the
Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) for a SAFE-TEA Statewide Transportation
Enhancements grant for Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 (Northwest Arterial) Bike/Hike Trail.
SAFE-TEA, the new federal transportation bill, stands for Safe, Accountable, Flexible,
and Efficient Transportation Equity Act. SAFE-TEA is a federal pass-thru grant to IDOT.
Background
The Iowa 32 Bike/ Hike Trail project is nearly 5 miles of a 10-foot wide off-road trail
along Iowa 32 from just north of U. S. 20 (Dodge Street) to the planned extension of the
Dubuque County Heritage Trail just east of the intersection of U.S. 52/ Iowa 386 (John
Deere Road). Preliminary grading for the trail was included in the expansion of Iowa 32
from 2 lanes to 4 lanes between U.S. 20 and Kennedy Road, and in the extension of
Iowa 32 from Kennedy Road to U.S. 52. The City has budgeted $178,020 in DRA
Distribution funds for the entire 5-mile trail, with an estimated project cost of $593,400.
In August, 2005, the City of Dubuque applied for a $200,000 REAP grant from the Iowa
Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) for Phase 1 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail.
Phase 1 is approximately 2 miles of off-road trail along the southerly side of Iowa 32
from Dubuque County's planned extension of the Herita~e Trail to U.S. 52 and Iowa 386
(John Deere Road), west to the intersection of West 32" Street and Kennedy Road with
Iowa 32. Signed on-street routes along Arboretum Drive will connect Phase 1 of the trail
to Marshall Park and the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. The estimated
project cost for Phase 1 is $237,360.
On September 19, 2005, the REAP Grant Review Committee recommended full funding
for the City of Dubuque's $200,000 grant application for Phase 1 of the Iowa 32
(Northwest Arterial) Bike/Hike Trail. The recommendations of the REAP Grant Review
Committee will go to the IDNR Commission for review and approval in October.
D~B~E
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MEMORANDUM
September 21, 2005
FROM:
Michael Van Milligen, City Manager
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager ~
TO:
SUBJECT: SAFE-TEA Grant Application for Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail (Phase 2)
Introduction
This memorandum presents for City Council review and approval, an application to the
Iowa Department of Transportation (lOOT) for a SAFE-TEA Statewide Transportation
Enhancements grant for Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 (Northwest Arterial) Bike/Hike Trail.
SAFE-TEA, the new federal transportation bill, stands for Safe, Accountable, Flexible,
and Efficient Transportation Equity Act. SAFE-TEA is a federal pass-thru grant to lOOT.
Background
The Iowa 32 Bike/ Hike Trail project is nearly 5 miles of a 10-foot wide off-road trail
along Iowa 32 from just north of U. S. 20 (Dodge Street) to the planned extension of the
Dubuque County Heritage Trail just east of the intersection of U.S. 52/lowa 386 (John
Deere Road). Preliminary grading for the trail was included in the expansion of Iowa 32
from 2 lanes to 4 lanes between U.S. 20 and Kennedy Road, and in the extension of
Iowa 32 from Kennedy Road to U.S. 52. The City has budgeted $178,020 in ORA
Distribution funds for the entire 5-mile trail, with an estimated project cost of $593,400.
In August, 2005, the City of Dubuque applied for a $200,000 REAP grant from the Iowa
Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) for Phase 1 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail.
Phase 1 is approximately 2 miles of off-road trail along the southerly side of Iowa 32
from Dubuque County's planned extension of the Herita~e Trail to U.S. 52 and Iowa 386
(John Deere Road), west to the intersection of West 32" Street and Kennedy Road with
Iowa 32. Signed on-street routes along Arboretum Drive will connect Phase 1 of the trail
to Marshall Park and the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. The estimated
project cost for Phase 1 is $237,360.
On September 19, 2005, the REAP Grant Review Committee recommended full funding
for the City of Dubuque's $200,000 grant application for Phase 1 of the Iowa 32
(Northwest Arterial) Bike/Hike Trail. The recommendations of the REAP Grant Review
Committee will go to the IDNR Commission for review and approval in October.
Grant Application for Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail (Phase 2)
Page 2 of 2
Discussion
The Statewide Transportation Enhancements grant application is for design,
engineering, and construction of Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 (Northwest Arterial) Bike/Hike
Trail. The project includes about 3 miles of trail along Iowa 32 from just north of U.S. 20
(Dodge Street) to Kennedy Road.
The paved, off-road trail would be 10 feet wide. Preliminary grading for the trail was
included in the expansion of Iowa 32 from two lanes to four lanes between U.S. 20 and
Kennedy Road.
The Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail is a component of the Dubuque Heritage Trail Extension.
The project is an important link in the communitywide bike/hike trail system. It would be
the City's first west side extension of the City's Heritage Trail system.
Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will connect to west side attractions via signed
on-street routes. Trail connections will be along Plaza Drive to the Asbury Plaza
Shopping Center and along Chavenelle Drive to the Bergfeld Recreation Area.
City Engineering has estimated the project cost for Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike
Trail to be approximately $356,040. The Federal SAFE-TEA Grant application is for
70% of the Phase 2 project cost, which is $249,288. The local match of $106,812 would
be provided by the City's budgeted ORA Distribution of $178,020 for this project.
Recommendation
I recommend that the City Council approve the submittal of the SAFE-TEA Statewide
Transportation Enhancements grant application of $249,288 for Phase 2 of the Iowa 32
Bike/Hike Trail Project.
Since the grant application deadline is October 1, the application will be submitted to the
lOOT prior to the October 3, 2005 City Council meeting. Any changes made by the City
Council will be provided to the lOOT after the October 3 meeting.
Enclosures
cc Gil Spence, Leisure Services Manager
Gus Psihoyos, City Engineer
Jon Dienst, Civil Engineer
Dawn Lang, Budget Director
.
Prepared by: Laura Carstens Plannina Services Manaaer Address: CitY Hall. 50 W. 13th St Telephone: 589-4210
RESOLUTION NO. 452-05
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SUBMITTAL OF AN APPLICATION FOR STATEWIDE
TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENTS FUNDING TO THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION FOR THE DUBUQUE HERITAGE TRAIL EXTENSION: PHASE 2
OF THE IOWA 32 (NORTHWEST ARTERIAL) BIKE/HIKE TRAIL PROJECT.
Whereas, the Iowa Department of Transportation has announced the availability of
Statewide Transportation Enhancements Funding; and
Whereas, pedestrian and bicycle facilities are eligible activities for this funding; and
Whereas, design, engineering and construction costs are eligible for this funding; and
Whereas, the City has adopted a Comprehensive Plan that identified a community-wide
bike/pedestrian network that includes extension of the Dubuque Heritage Trail along Iowa 32
(Northwest Arterial).
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
DUBUQUE, IOWA:
Section 1. The Mayor is authorized to sign and submit this application to the Iowa
Department of Transportation for Statewide Transportation Enhancements Funding for the
Dubuque Heritage Trail Extension: Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 (Northwest Arterial) Bike/Hike Trail.
Section 2. That the City Council authorizes the City Manager to utilize budgeted Capital
Improvement Program funds to provide the match required by this program.
Section 3. That in the event said application is approved, the City Council hereby
provides its written assurance that the completed project will be adequately maintained for its
intended public use for a minimum of twenty (20) years following the project.
Section 4. That the City of Dubuque agrees to abide by all local, state and federal
requirements applicable to the proposed budget.
Passed, approved and adopted this 3rd day of October, 2005.
Joyce E. Connors, Mayor Pro-Tern
Attest:
Jeanne F. Schneider, City Clerk
"
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~~1OW3 Department of TransportatiOn
..
REQUEST FOR STATEWIDE TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENT FUNDS
Generallnfonnation
Applicant Agency: City of QubL!que
Contact (Name & Title}: Laura Carstens. Planninq Services Manaqer
Complete Mailing Address: City Ha 11 - 50 W. l'Hh St.
Street Address and/or Box No.
Dubuque IA 52001-4864 563.589.4210
City Stale Zip Daytime Phone
If more than one agency or organization is involved in this project, please state the name, contact person,
mailing address, and telephone number of the second agency. (Attach an additional page if more than two
agencies are involved,)
Agency:
Contact (Name & Title):
Complete Mailing Address:
SImeI Address and/or Box No.
City
Project Title:
Stale
Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail
Zip
Daytime Phone
Project Description: (including length if applicable):
Construction of approximately three
miles of 10-foot wide, paved off-road trail along Iowa 32 between U.S. Highway
20 and John F. Kennedy Road.
If this project includes land acquisition. how many acres? N/ A
Project Category - Check all boxes that apply and indicate the project grouping (1, 2 or 3) you wish your
project to be scored in.
o Trails and Bicycle Grouping
6if Facilities for Pedestrians and Bicydes
o Preservation of Abandoned Railway Corridors
o Safety and Educational Activities for Pedestrians
and Bicyclists
49 Scenic and Natural Resources Grouping
o Scenic Highway Programs Induding Tourist and
Welcome Centers
o Acquisition of Scenic Easements and Scenic Sites
o Landscaping and Other Scenic Beautification,
Including Graffiti and Litter Removal
o Control and Removal of Outdoor Advertising
o Mitigation of Water Pollution Due to Highway
Runoff, Including Projects That Reduce Vehicle-
Caused Wildlife Mortality, While Maintaining
Habitat Connectivity
. Historic and Archaeological Grouping
o Historic Highway Programs, including Tourist and
Welcome Centers
o Historic Preservation
o Rehabilitation and Operation of Historic
Transportation Buildings. Structures, or Facilities
o Archaeological Planning and Research
o Establishment of Transportation Museums
-1- Project Group you wish your project scored in
-1-
Project COSts (An itemized breakdown must be mClUaea on an auacnea sneer):
Estimated land cost $ 0
Estimated engineering cost $ 38, 147
Estimated construction cost $ 317.893
Other Costs $ 0
Estimated Total Cost $ 356.040
Enhancement Fund Request $ 2Q9.228
Applicant Match (30"A, minimum) $ 1 06 . 8 1 2
1.
Match Source Amount Assured or Anticipated
City of Dubuque $106.812 Assured
2.
3.
Are any state funds involved in this project? 0 Yes iJ No
If yes, please explain the source and conditions
Are any other federal funds involved in this project? 0 Yes ua No
If yes, please explain the source and conditions
Estimated Project Development Schedule:
Design (start and completion date) May-September 2006
Land Acquisition (start and completion date) N/ A
Construction (start and completion date) Ma rch-Novembe r 2007
Has any part of this project been started? fi Yes 0 No
If yes, explain
lOOT completed preliminary gradinq for the trail when Iowa 32
was expanded from two lanes to four lanes between U.S. Highway 20 and John
F. Kennedy Road.
Will this project be open to the public?
~ Yes 0 No
o Yes f]J No
Do you intend a charge a fee to users?
If yes, how much? $
What will it be used for?
-2-
Documentation and Narrative Information
The following documents and narratives must be attached to this application. In the upper right-hand comer of
each document or narrative write the corresponding letter shown below:
00 A. A NARRATIVE assessing existing conditions, outlining the concept of the proposed project, and
providing adequate project justification. Transportation enhancements must have a direct relationship
to the intermodal transportation system, either as it exists or as it is planned. Assess your project in
regard to the transportation system relative to its functional relationship, proximity, or impact to an
existing or planned transportation facility. Assess the value of this project from a statewide perspective
and how it will be a functional addition to the transportation system and the state as a whole if no
additional development funds are received.
!Xl B. A MAP identifying the location of the project.
IX! C. A SKETCH-PLAN of the project, induding cross-section for bicyde or pedestrian facilities.
IX! D. An ITEMIZED BREAKDOWN of the total project costs.
IX] E. A TIME SCHEDULE for the total project development. Funding for projects which fail to make
satisfactory progress may be rescheduled or removed from the program by the Iowa Department of
Transportation.
IKJ F. An OFFICiAl ENDORSEMENT of the proposal from the authority to be responsible for the
maintenance and operation. The authority must provide written assurance that it will adequately
maintain the completed project for its intended public use for a minimum of 20 years following project
completion.
00 G. A NARRATIVE discussing the public input process that was followed and the extent to which adjacent
properly owners and others have been informed of the proposed project and an assessment of their
acceptance.
The award of statewide Transportation Enhancement (TE) funds; any subsequent funding of letting of
contracts for design, construction, reconstruction, improvement, or maintenance; or the furnishing of materials
shall not involve direct or indirect interest, prohibited by Iowa Code Sections 314.2,362.5 or 331.342, of any
state, county, or city official, elective or appointive. Any award of funding or any letting of a contract in violation
of the foregoing provisions shan invalidate the award of funding and authorize a complete recovery of any
funds previously disbursed.
Certification
To the best of my knowledge and belief, all information induded in this application is true and accurate,
including the commitment of all physical and financial resources. This application has been duly authorized by
the participating local authority. I understand the attached OFFICIAL ENDORSEMENT(S) binds the
participating local govemments to assume responsibility for adequate maintenance of any new or improved
facilities.
I understand that, although this information is sufficient to secure a commitment of funds, executed contract
between the applicant and the Department is required prior to the authorization of funds.
Representing the
City of Dubuque
Signature
Date
Laura Carstens, Planning Services Manager
Typed Name & Tide
09/21/05
Date
-3-
A.
DUBUQUE HERITAGE TRAIL EXTENSION: IOWA 32 BIKE/HIKE TRAIL (PHASE 2)
Project Location
Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will extend approximately 3 miles along Iowa 32
on the northwest side of Dubuque. The trail will begin at the intersection of John F.
Kennedy Road with Iowa 32. It will extend as a physically separated paved trail along
the west side of Iowa 32 in the highway right-of-way to just north of U.S. 20. The 10-foot
wide trail will end near the highway bridge over Catfish Creek. Signed on-street routes
will link the trail to City parks and a major shopping center. A location map is enclosed.
Existing Conditions: Iowa 32 Corridor
The entire Iowa 32 Bike/ Hike Trail project will approximately 4.7 miles of an off-road
bike/hike trail along Iowa 32 (locally known as the Northwest Arterial), from U.S. 20 to
U.S. 52 and Iowa 386 (S. John Deere Road). The Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will utilize a
route that has been preliminarily graded by the lOOT with the expansion of Iowa 32 to a
four-lane divided highway from U.S. 20 to U.S. 52. The route is located in grassy right-
of-way that parallels residential and commercial developments.
The Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will be located within the right-of-way for the four-lane
extension of Iowa 32 from U.S. 20 to U.S. 52. The lOOT conducted an environmental
impact analysis of the highway route to identify and mitigate impacts to historical,
archeological, cultural, and architectural features prior to construction of the roadway.
As a result, the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will not impact any such resources.
The Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will run through a picturesque corridor of open space,
recreational areas, limestone bluffs, woodlands, agricultural lands, residential
neighborhoods, and significant commercial developments on the west side of Dubuque.
Project Concept
The entire Iowa 32 Bike/ Hike Trail Project is approximately 5 miles of 1 O-foot wide
paved trail along Iowa 32 from a point just east of the U.S. 52 /Iowa 386 intersection to
U. S. 20. The entire Iowa 32 Bike/ Hike Trail Project will be constructed in phases
between major intersections along Iowa 32.
Phase 1
Phase 1 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will begin at the planned connection of the
Dubuque County Heritage Trail with the City of Dubuque's Heritage Trail Riverfront
System. This County-City trail connection is located at Iowa 386 just east of the U.S.
52/lowa 32 intersection. The trail will extend westerly about 2 miles as a physically
separated paved trail along the south side of Iowa 32 to the intersection of John F.
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Kennedy Road with Iowa 32. A signed on-street route on Arboretum Drive will connect
to Marshall Park and the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.
The City of Dubuque has received preliminary approval for a REAP (Resource and
Enhancement Program) grant from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR)
to help fund Phase 1 of the trail.
Phase 2
This Statewide Transportation Enhancement (TE) grant application is just for Phase 2
of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail. Phase 2 is approximately 3 miles of the 5-mile trail
project. Phase 2 extends along the west side of Iowa 32 from John F. Kennedy Road to
just north of U.S. 20 (Dodge Street). The 10-foot off-road trail will end near the highway
bridge over Catfish Creek.
The west side of Dubuque is the fastest growing shopping, employment and residential
area in the city of Dubuque. Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will connect to west
side attractions. One signed on-street route along Plaza Drive will provide access to
Asbury Plaza, a major shopping center. A second signed on-street route will travel
through the Dubuque Industrial Center along Chavenelle Drive to the Bergfeld
Recreation Area.
Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will feature two rest areas. One will be at Asbury
Plaza, a regional shopping center with restaurants, supermarket, movie theater, and
other retail/service uses. The second rest area will be in the Dubuque Industrial Center.
These rest areas will include landscaping, benches and trash receptacles.
Project Justification
The Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail is included in the Dubuque Metropolitan Area
Transportation Study (DMA TS) 2025 Long Range Transportation Plan. The DMA TS
Plan includes the comprehensive Bicycle and Pedestrian Network as an example of
multi-modal transportation for the Dubuque area. The DMA TS Plan calls for hiking and
biking trails for recreational purposes and to provide alternative modes of transportation
that will help reduce pollution and highway congestion.
The west side of Dubuque is the fastest growing shopping, employment and residential
area in the city of Dubuque. The Iowa 32 Trail will provide an important and safe
north/south link for bikers and hikers from the Dubuque Heritage Trail and the north end
of town to the west side of Dubuque. The Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will also be a part of
the Heritage Trail network and will complete a loop back to the planned extension of
Heritage Trail into the City of Dubuque.
The 4.7 mile Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will also provide access to Marshall Park and the
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Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, where rest rooms, drinking water, play
equipment, picnic areas, benches and trash receptacles will be available. Trail users
also will be able to reach the Dubuque Soccer Complex, where rest rooms, drinking
fountains, play equipment, concessions and, of course, soccer fields, are provided.
Trail users will be able to access a variety of restaurants and retailers at Asbury Plaza,
a regional shopping center that includes fast food and sit down restaurants,
supermarket, convenience store, and other shops west of the Iowa 32 Bike/ Hike Trail
between Asbury Road and the Dubuque Soccer Complex. A rest area will be located
along the trail in conjunction with the plaza development.
Near the western terminus of the Iowa 32 Bike/ Hike Trail, direct access will be provided
to the Bergfeld Recreation Area via an on-street signed route along Chavenelle Drive.
The Bergfeld Rec Area is the largest park on the city's west side, and is one of two
parks in the city that offer fishing. It is open year round from sunrise to sunset, free of
charge.
Relationship to Intermodal Transportation System
The Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail is related to the intermodal transportation system. Related
facilities include the planned extension of the existing Dubuque County Heritage Trail,
the City of Dubuque's existing Heritage Trail Riverfront System, and existing links to the
America's River project at the Port of Dubuque and other riverfront attractions.
The Dubuque County Heritage Trail and the City of Dubuque's Heritage Trail Riverfront
System are accessible to the rural areas north of Dubuque, to Dubuque's north end
neighborhood and central business district, and to the south end of town. The existing
County/City Heritage Trail network, however, does not connect with the City's growing
west side.
Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will provide an important west side link to the
County/City Heritage Trail network and other attractions that does not exist.
Dubuque County Heritaae Trail
The Dubuque County Heritage Trail is a 26-mile bicycling/hiking path linking the
communities of Dubuque, Dyersville, Farley, Epworth, Graf, Durango and Sageville in
Dubuque County. The trail surface is crushed limestone with a one percent maximum
grade. No horses or motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail.
The Dubuque County Conservation Board has received federal transportation funding
for an extension of the Heritage Trail along the former Chicago-Great Western Railroad
right-of-way from its current terminus at Heritage Pond 3 miles north of Dubuque,
across U.S. 52 via a bike/pedestrian bridge, under Iowa 386, to its intersection with the
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City's Heritage Trail Riverfront System.
Phase 1 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will connect to the Dubuque County Heritage
Trail near Iowa 386, providing access between the west side of Dubuque and the
Heritage Trail via Phase 2 of the trail project.
Mlt.ES.
. 'J
City of Dubuque Heritaqe Trail Riverfront System
The City of Dubuque's Heritage Trail Riverfront System connects the north end of the
city with the riverfront, the downtown area, and the Mines of Spain State Recreational
Area, south of Dubuque. The City of Dubuque has established this urban trail system
using signed routes on City streets and several off-road trail segments where possible.
The City has also completed several trail connections to City parks and attractions
along the riverfront. A map of the Heritage Trail Riverfront System is enclosed.
Users of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will be able to link with this 10.5 mile riverfront trail
system. Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail users will be able to travel on the Heritage Trail
Riverfront System to attractions like Lock and Dam No. 11, City parks, the Mississippi
River, the America's River project at the Port of Dubuque, and the Mines of Spain State
Recreation Area. Phase 1 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will provide an important link to
three off-road trails within the City's Heritage Trail Riverfront System -- the Dubuque
Jaycees Trail, Heron Pond Wetlands Nature Trail, and the Alliant Energy Powerline
Trail. Phase 2 will provide west side linkages for these existing trails.
The Mines of Spain is a 1,387 -acre recreation area located at the southeast end of
Dubuque. The State Park is a designated National Historic Landmark, a National
Wildlife Federation Nature Area, and a Watchable Wildlife Area. The Mines of Spain
spans the 600-acre Catfish Creek Preserve, an architectural and geological preserve.
America's River at the Port of Dubuque boasts the Grand River Center -- an education
and conference center, the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, the
Grand Harbor Resort and Indoor Water Park, and the Mississippi Riverwalk
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City's Heritage Trail Riverfront System.
Phase 1 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will connect to the Dubuque County Heritage
Trail near Iowa 386, providing access between the west side of Dubuque and the
Heritage Trail via Phase 2 of the trail project.
..... .
. "
City of Dubuque Heritaae Trail Riverfront System
The City of Dubuque's Heritage Trail Riverfront System connects the north end of the
city with the riverfront, the downtown area, and the Mines of Spain State Recreational
Area, south of Dubuque. The City of Dubuque has established this urban trail system
using signed routes on City streets and several off-road trail segments where possible.
The City has also completed several trail connections to City parks and attractions
along the riverfront. A map of the Heritage Trail Riverfront System is enclosed.
Users of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will be able to link with this 10.5 mile riverfront trail
system. Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail users will be able to travel on the Heritage Trail
Riverfront System to attractions like Lock and Dam No. 11, City parks, the Mississippi
River, the America's River project at the Port of Dubuque, and the Mines of Spain State
Recreation Area. Phase 1 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will provide an important link to
three off-road trails within the City's Heritage Trail Riverfront System -- the Dubuque
Jaycees Trail, Heron Pond Wetlands Nature Trail, and the Alliant Energy Powerline
Trail. Phase 2 will provide west side linkages for these existing trails.
The Mines of Spain is a 1 ,387-acre recreation area located at the southeast end of
Dubuque. The State Park is a designated National Historic Landmark, a National
Wildlife Federation Nature Area, and a Watchable Wildlife Area. The Mines of Spain
spans the 600-acre Catfish Creek Preserve, an architectural and geological preserve.
America's River at the Port of Dubuque boasts the Grand River Center -- an education
and conference center, the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, the
Grand Harbor Resort and Indoor Water Park, and the Mississippi Riverwalk
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Recreational Trail, a one-mile promenade along the riverfront and historic Ice Harbor.
In addition to vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, the Port of Dubuque offers
other transportation modes: horse-drawn carriage rides, riverboat rides, public transit,
and historic replica trolleys.
State and National Trails
The County and City sections of the Heritage Trail are part of the backbone system of
the State Recreational Trail Plan. The Dubuque County Heritage Trail is a National
Recreation Trail.
Portions of the Dubuque County Heritage Trail and the City's Heritage Trail Riverfront
System are part of the designated route for the Mississippi River Trail (MRT) through
Iowa. The MRT is a 2,000-mile bike trail system being developed through the river cities
and river landscapes in the 10 states along the Mississippi River from Lake Itasca to the
Gulf of Mexico. The Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will provide a side trip from the Heritage
Trail and the MRT.
City Parks and Schools
Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail provides an important west side link for bicyclists
and pedestrians to access passive and active recreational facilities at the City's parks
and the public and parochial schools in the Dubuque community. A map showing the
proximity of the proposed trail project to parks and schools is enclosed.
Project Value
Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail is of local state and regional value because it is
consistent with a number of state and local plans, and because it provides multi-modal
access to a diverse population.
Dubuaue County 5-Year REAP Plan
The Dubuque County 5- Year REAP Plan states that "it is the goal of the City of
Dubuque's Leisure Services Department to develop...a safe, clean, functional and
attractive system of parks and recreational facilities to meet the passive and active
leisure needs of all residents and visitors". Phase 1 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will
help to achieve these goals by providing the City's first off-road trail to the community's
growing west side. It will be a plus for residents of the entire community and for visitors
to the Dubuque area.
Iowa Open Spaces Prooram
Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail also addresses the overall goals of the Iowa
Open Spaces Program to "educate the citizens of the state about the needs and
urgency of protecting the state's open spaces, plan for the protection of the state's
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significant open space areas, and acquire and protect those properties on a priority
basis through a variety of appropriate means".
The Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will offer a safe and accessible route through a picturesque
open space corridor, with scenic views of woodlands, farmland and limestone bluffs. It
will provide links to open space amenities. At the eastern terminus of Phase 1, the
Iowa 32 trail will link to the Dubuque County Heritage Trail just 3 miles south of the
eastern trailhead, Heritage Pond and Trail Interpretive Area. At the juncture of Phases
1 and 2, the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will link to Marshall Park and Dubuque Arboretum
and Botanical Gardens. At the southern terminus of Phase 2, the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike
Trail will link to the Bergfeld Recreation Area.
Iowa Statewide Comprehensive Statewide Plan
Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail is closely tied to many of the priorities and
issues of the Iowa Statewide Comprehensive Statewide Plan (SCORP). The SCORP
comments that the three most important values for quality trail experience are: health
and fitness, aesthetic beauty, and natural area preservation of open space. The
SCORP calls for the "expansion and acquisition, development and management of
existing. . . wetlands, recreation and wildlife areas and a need to increase awareness of
wildlife diversity programs and non-consuming enjoyment of wildlife on all lands".
Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will provide ready opportunities for health and
fitness, aesthetic beauty and appreciation of open space.
Statewide Recreation Trails Usaae Study
In the 1989 Iowa Statewide Recreation Trails Usage Study, elements that were
mentioned that contributed most to the trail user's enjoyment were:
· The trail traverses a variety of landscapes.
· The presence of water.
· The trail corridor is separate from the roadway.
· Historical markers are present.
The existing Heritage Trail and proposed recreational trails fall into these categories of
enjoyment. Ultimately, the City of Dubuque envisions the Heritage Trail as the focal
point of a city-wide bicycling and pedestrian system. Links along Iowa 32, 32"d Street,
Loras Boulevard, Dodge Street/Highway 20 and Catfish Creek will provide safe, scenic
full-city and riverfront loops.
Construction of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail as a side trip off the Heritage Trail system
will add to Dubuque's reputation as a tourist destination for both the State of Iowa and
the community. Annual use on the Dubuque County Heritage Trail exceeds 60,000
people with an estimated 30% from out-of-town.
Statewide Trails Vision
6
A.
According to the Statewide Trails Vision, the ultimate goal is to "connect communities,
parks, natural resources, shopping, employment and other amenities with a
comprehensive, multi-modal, easily accessible trails system". Phase 2 of the Iowa 32
Bike/Hike Trail will connect with Asbury Plaza Shopping Center, Dubuque Industrial
Center, Bergfeld Recreation Area, and other amenities in the community.
DMA TS Lona Ranae Transportation Plan
The entire 5-mile Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail Project is included in the Dubuque
Metropolitan Area Transportation Study (DMATS) 2025 Long Range Transportation
Plan. The DMATS Plan includes the comprehensive Bicycle and Pedestrian Network as
an example of multi-modal transportation for the Dubuque area. The DMA TS Plan calls
for hiking and biking trails for recreational purposes and as alternative modes of
transportation that will help reduce pollution and highway congestion. Phase 2 of the
Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will help to achieve these goals.
City of DubuQue Comprehensive Plan
In addition, the 2002 City of Dubuque Comprehensive Plan contains goals for bike/hike
trails, riverfront enhancement and increased accessibility to the river as well as the
development of neighborhood parks and open space. Specifically, the Plan's recreation
goals include:
~ To improve and expand recreational opportunities for adults, the elderly and the
disabled.
~ To optimize the recreational amenities offered by the city's riverfront.
~ To enhance the visual attractiveness of the community and park system.
Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will help to realize these goals.
Accessibilitv
The Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will provide an important and safe "first step" for bike and
pedestrian traffic to flow back and forth from the Dubuque County Heritage Trail and the
City of Dubuque's Heritage Trail Riverfront System on the north end of Dubuque to the
west end of town. The west side of Dubuque is the city's fastest growing shopping,
employment and residential area. The north end of Dubuque includes low and
moderate income neighborhoods with a diversity of racial, ethnic, and age groups.
This 3-mile second phase of Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will also provide access to the
Bergfeld Recreation Area. Here trail users can enjoy picnic areas, a pavilion for outdoor
gatherings, a fishing pond with jetties, trash receptacles, and an accessible walking trail
around the fishing pond. An on-street signed route along Chavenelle Drive will connect
Bergfeld Recreation Area to the Iowa 32 Bike/ Hike Trail.
The Iowa 32 Bike/ Hike Trail project will allow bicyclists and pedestrians opportunities to
7
A.
safely access a variety of recreational uses, including hiking, biking, jogging, picnicking,
fishing, and other recreational facilities at City and County parks and recreational
facilities. Enclosed are maps depicting primary bicycle and pedestrian destinations
along the Iowa 32 Bike/ Hike Trail, links to the existing bike/hike trails, and links to the
proposed and existing portions of the bicycle and pedestrian network in the Dubuque
area.
The Dubuque County Heritage Trail, the City's Heritage Trail Riverfront System, and the
Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail form a bicycle and pedestrian network that will be used by both
tourists and local residents.
All City bike/hike trail projects comply with Americans with Disabilities (ADA) guidelines
and American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO)
guidelines for recreational trail facilities. All City bike/hike trails are open to the public
free of charge, which facilitates their use by economically disadvantaged persons.
Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/Hike Trail will provide a 10-foot wide paved trail physically
separated from the motorized traffic on Iowa 32 by an open space located within the
highway right-of-way. This type of facility is well suited for all users.
A physically separated pathway like Phase 2 of the Iowa 32 Bike/ Hike Trail
accommodates the greatest number of user groups, by taking into consideration the
differing abilities of the potential trail users. As a paved off-road trail, the Iowa 32
Bike/Hike Trail will accommodate experienced riders, casual or new adult and teenage
riders, pre-teens and young children monitored by parents, older adults, persons with
disabilities, and similar special needs populations.
8
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