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BillB3
Site Admin
Joined: 30 Aug 2006
Posts: 1572
Location: Kingston, NY
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 Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 10:38 am Post subject: FDR Trails Master Plan - Comment Period & Public Meeting |
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The National Park Service is now undertaking a plan to guide development and use of the trails at the Roosevelt-Vanderbilt National Historic Sites in Hyde Park, New York. The project will include the trails at the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site (Val-Kill), and the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site. The goal of the Trail Plan is to lay the groundwork for a comprehensive, well-designed, sustainable trail system which provides a variety of visitor experiences that support the parks' missions.
The project involves several stages. These include data collection and evaluation of existing conditions, public outreach, exploration of alternatives for the trail system, and the assessment of the environmental impacts of the options considered.
Currently the NPS is has released the draft plan and Environmental Assessment for public comment. The comment period is June 15 - July 15, 2012. There is also a public meeting scheduled for June 28, 2012 at 6PM in the Henry A. Wallace Visitor & Education center at the park.
Once the public comment period is complete, the NPS will review and address all comments. At that time the NPS will either issue a Finding of No Significant Impact or prepare an Environmental Impact Statement. |
Summary: http://parkplanning.nps.gov/projectHome.cfm?projectID=23682
Direct Link to PDF: http://parkplanning.nps.gov/showFile.cfm?projectID=23682&docType=public&MIMEType=application%252Fpdf&filename=Trail%5FMaster%5FPlan%5FPublic%5FEA%5FRelease%2Epdf&clientFilename=Trail%5FMaster%5FPlan%5FPublic%5FEA%5FRelease%2Epdf
Comments: http://parkplanning.nps.gov/commentForm.cfm?documentID=48052
Last edited by BillB3 on Thu Jun 21, 2012 10:51 am; edited 1 time in total |
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BillB3
Site Admin
Joined: 30 Aug 2006
Posts: 1572
Location: Kingston, NY
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| Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 10:44 am Post subject: |
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In case you don't feel like reading 190 pages...this is most of the bike related stuff.
Page 2, PDF Page 12 - PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR ACTION
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The purpose of the Roosevelt-Vanderbilt National Historic Sites Trails Master Plan is to develop a comprehensive, well-designed and sustainable, multi-modal trail system that provides a variety of visitor experiences uniquely suited to the sites’ resources, that supports the purposes for which the sites were established, and to support the goals established in the 2010 General Management Plan (GMP) to provide for public use and enjoyment.
The existing trail system at the Roosevelt-Vanderbilt National Historic Sites comprises over 15 miles of trails throughout the three sites. Trail surfaces along this network vary, from single track primitive hiking trails to wide historic roadways to paved roadways. Use of the trails that are not on site roads is currently limited to pedestrian use. Bicycle use along these roads is currently prohibited, in accordance with 36 CFR 4.30. As such, bicycle use within the sites is very limited. Some trails that enter the Home of FDR NHS from private property allow mountain bike use outside NPS jurisdiction; however, when users enter NPS jurisdiction, mountain bike use is no longer authorized. This is especially an issue in the Roosevelt Farm and Forest, where a network of mountain bike trails was established on the property prior to NPS acquisition of the land in 2007.
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Based on the purpose and need identified above, the specific objectives for the proposed action are as follows:
- Improve connectivity of trail types while maintaining a range of touring and recreational
choices and connections to other local trail networks
- Provide visitors with wayfinding information about and orientation to the trail network
that allows comfortable, safe, and easily navigated access to and between sites
- Provide enhanced interpretive opportunities along the trail system so visitors are left with
an enhanced understanding of the parks’ resources and stories, along with a better
understanding of NPS preservation practices
- Attract new generations of visitors who may have greater interest in accessing NPS sites
on foot, bike, cross-country skis, or snow-shoes |
Page 7, PDF Page 17 - STUDY AREA
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At the Home of FDR site (including the Roosevelt Farm and Forest but excluding Top Cottage
Trail), there are a total of 6.4 miles of authorized trails (3 miles at the main home site and 3.4
miles in the Roosevelt Farm and Forest). West of Route 9, the primary trails include the Cove
Trail (0.6), the Forest Trail (1.4), and the Meadow Trail (0.4). The 0.3 mile Home Road also
serves as a pedestrian route. Across Route 9 in the Roosevelt Farm and Forest, the Roosevelt
Farm Lane (1.8 miles) is the only full trail that is open to bicycle use as well as pedestrian use.
The Park tram also uses this road, although it is closed to public vehicles. Branching off of the
Roosevelt Farm Lane are the Red, Yellow, and Blue Trails (at 0.7, 07., and 0.2 miles,
respectively). There also are 5.1 miles of unauthorized mountain bike trails branching off of the
Roosevelt Farm Land and the Red, Yellow, and Blue Trails in the Roosevelt Farm and Forest. |
Page 22, PDF Page 32 - ALTERNATIVE A
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| Under the no-action alternative, the existing trail system would continue to be managed as it is currently, according to guidance provided in the GMP. Maintenance and improvements would take place as time and funding allows but would not be part of a formalized comprehensive trails plan. |
Page 28, PDF Page 38 - ALTERNATIVE B
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Under alternative B, the NPS would adopt the proposed Trails Master Plan as a comprehensive plan for how to best capitalize on and enhance the existing trail network, as described above, while also adding or formalizing new trails to improve access and connections within and between the sites. Given the variation in existing conditions, along with the variety of trail user groups, the proposed plan would address use management as well as physical improvements. Currently there are no multi-use paths within the sites or immediately nearby. Though the roadway network can be expected to address the connectivity needs, there are limited instances where a shared-use path may better address the needs of visitors travelling between the sites.
The plan focuses on the improvement of connectivity for the specific trail user groups. In some cases, the plan recommends separation of different user groups; in other cases it suggests appropriate locations for shared use. The overall trail system is outlined on figure 4. In focusing on improved access, connectivity, and use management, the plan proposes improvements by user type. The proposed improvements are outlined below in the context of general improvements that affect the entire trail system, specific improvements within each site, and improvements suggested for areas outside NPS jurisdiction. |
Page 40, PDF Page 50 - BIKE ROUTES
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Figure 8 includes existing and proposed improvements to the bicycle network within and between the three sites. Current NPS regulations on bicycle use within units of the national park
system limit the use of bicycles to park roads1, parking areas, and routes designated for bicycle use. If bicycles are to be used in areas outside developed areas and special use zones, a special
regulation specific to the individual unit of the national park system must be adopted. In December of 2008 the NPS developed a proposed rule governing bicycle use that would allow
superintendents to designate existing trails for bicycle use outside of developed areas and special use zones rather than requiring the promulgation of special regulations. Until that regulation is
finalized, the current regulations governing bicycle use contained at 36 CFR 4.30 remain in effect; therefore, the expanded bicycle use within NPS boundaries may require a special
regulation to be promulgated prior to implementation.
Several actions would apply to the overall utility of the trail system for bicyclists throughout and between the sites. The NPS would install wayfinding that directs users to destinations within the
sites and would coordinate with relevant authorities to install signs outside NPS jurisdiction. NPS would also post signs to make all users aware of the shared roadway conditions and
appropriate etiquette and would consider traffic calming where bicyclists share the roadway with motor vehicles to ensure motorists obey the 15 MPH speed limit.
Specific recommended improvements to the bicycle network at each site are described below.
Home of FDR National Historic Site
Under the proposed plan, the Home of FDR NHS would be opened to bicycle use through the establishment of a wider multi-use trail along 0.6 miles of the existing Forest Trail and a new link along the Morgan Boundary Road (0.8 miles). This would allow bicyclists to enter the site along the multi-use trail from the northwest, near the river, or from Route 9 (separate from the vehicle entrance they currently share).
The Roosevelt Farm Lane would continue to be open to bicyclists March to November, although it would continue to be closed to bicyclists during hazardous winter conditions (December 1 to
February 28). Improvements specific to single track mountain bike trails are discussed in the following section.
Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site
Bicyclist-oriented improvements at Eleanor Roosevelt NHS would be limited to the addition of wayfinding, orientation, and trailhead amenities discussed in other sections describing this alternative.
Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site
Under the trails plan, the NPS would open the Vanderbilt Service Road to bicycles to create a loop trail that provides bicycle access throughout the site.
Outside Roosevelt-Vanderbilt National Historic Site
Additional recommendations would need to be coordinated with other state and/or local agencies and/or private landowners. The Hyde Park Trail between the Vanderbilt Mansion NHS and the Home of FDR NHS could be opened to bicycles between the terminus of the on-road section on River Road and the boundary road as part of the multi-use trail. Additionally, the NPS would coordinate on-road bike improvements with the Town of Hyde Park, Dutchess County, and NYDOT to facilitate development of circulation and access routes that would link the sites to each other, as well as to regional destinations. Specifically, on-road improvements are needed on... |
Page 43, PDF Page 53 - MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS
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Figure 9 includes potential improvements to re-establish and expand opportunities for mountain biking within the Roosevelt Farm and Forest. The existing sections shown on figure 3 are unauthorized; mountain biking is currently prohibited on these sections but has been observed by NPS staff in these areas. The proposed improvements would allow authorized mountain bike use in appropriate areas, helping to expand the visitor base for the sites, while also engaging a valuable partner in the overall implementation of this alternative. The specific recommendations for potential mountain bike trails are described below.
Home of FDR National Historic Site
Through promulgation of special regulations, the NPS would re-establish access to mountain bike trail loops within the Roosevelt Farm and Forest using the Yellow, Red, and Blue trails and approximately 2.3 miles of the existing but currently unauthorized, single track trails. The remaining unauthorized trails (totaling approximately 2.8 miles) would remain closed and use would be discouraged through the use of physical barriers such as brush piles. In order to provide logical trail loops within NPS jurisdiction, four new trail connections (totaling approximately 0.5 miles) would be established in conjunction with the designation of existing unauthorized trails as authorized.
Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site
Mountain bike-oriented improvements at Eleanor Roosevelt NHS would be limited to the addition of wayfinding, orientation, and trailhead amenities discussed in other sections describing this alternative.
Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site
Mountain bike-oriented improvements at Vanderbilt Mansion NHS would be limited to the addition of wayfinding, orientation, and trailhead amenities discussed in other sections describing this alternative.
Outside Roosevelt-Vanderbilt National Historic Site
The NPS would also coordinate with property owners to the north and south of Roosevelt Farm and Forest as well as Central Hudson Gas & Electric to establish a large loop trail and access to the Winnakee Nature Preserve. Because this involves land outside the national historic site’s authorized boundary, this would need to involve a land trust or other entity. |
Page 52, PDF Page 62 - MITIGATION MEASURES
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| Coordinate trail building, maintenance, and education workshops through volunteer and stakeholder groups, such as Fats in the Cats, to build a stewardship base. |
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TriassicDoc
El Presidente
Joined: 25 Mar 2007
Posts: 1235
Location: Poughquag
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| Posted: Thu Jun 21, 2012 1:22 pm Post subject: |
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| nice work! I sent in a letter with high praises for the fats... |
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Tim845
Joined: 02 Sep 2006
Posts: 3684
Location: Poughkeepsie
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| Posted: Fri Jun 22, 2012 6:27 am Post subject: |
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Really man nice work!
I hope that people do the right thing 
_________________
Pedal, b*tches!! |
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Forest_biker
Joined: 16 Sep 2006
Posts: 859
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| Posted: Fri Jun 22, 2012 6:42 pm Post subject: |
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| Tim845 wrote: |
Really man nice work!
I hope that people do the right thing |
You mean maybe more than four Fats will show up at the meeting this time?
Last time it really didn't look like we wanted it bad enough.  |
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Tim845
Joined: 02 Sep 2006
Posts: 3684
Location: Poughkeepsie
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| Posted: Sat Jun 23, 2012 7:39 am Post subject: |
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Whether cyclists are FitC or not, hopefully they'll take a moment and write - or attend the meeting.
The logic of the National Parks isnt easy to understand 
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Pedal, b*tches!! |
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Forest_biker
Joined: 16 Sep 2006
Posts: 859
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| Posted: Tue Jun 26, 2012 10:24 pm Post subject: |
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Eventhough this isn't listed on the "upcoming events," board this meeting is this Thursday at 6pm.
I like how they call the trails "singletrack hiking trails."
Really?
I don't recall any trails there made by hikers?
Here is a whole trail system worth standing up for and hopefully opening up like it was years ago.
Even if you don't have much to say, numbers are important, it shows how much interest there is.
Consider this as the ultimate trailwork day. |
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BillB3
Site Admin
Joined: 30 Aug 2006
Posts: 1572
Location: Kingston, NY
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| Posted: Wed Jun 27, 2012 11:40 am Post subject: |
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| Forest_biker wrote: |
| Eventhough this isn't listed on the "upcoming events," board this meeting is this Thursday at 6pm. |
It is now |
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Forest_biker
Joined: 16 Sep 2006
Posts: 859
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| Posted: Wed Jun 27, 2012 6:12 pm Post subject: |
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| Thanks! |
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Forest_biker
Joined: 16 Sep 2006
Posts: 859
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| Posted: Wed Jun 27, 2012 9:43 pm Post subject: |
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Seriously, the more people who can show up the better.
This forum topic has over 280 views, but only 4 people have piped in.
If 10% of those viewers could show it would be tremendous!
Back before the NPS took (away) over the site there were tons of great trails and riding. A awesome place to bike and exercise. A place to meet other mtbikers and friends on a variety of terrain in a beautiful forest.
Now if you pass through, it's like a ghost town. The trails are disappearing, there are trees down and many old ways are hard to find.
The good old days of Hyde Park/pre-NPS
Yeah, those days could return if only someone would do something about it....... |
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BillB3
Site Admin
Joined: 30 Aug 2006
Posts: 1572
Location: Kingston, NY
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| Posted: Wed Jun 27, 2012 9:51 pm Post subject: |
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Meeting details:
This meeting will provide the public a chance to learn about the trails master plan and ask questions or make comments. This is part of the public comment period which runs from June 11 to July 11, 2012.
Thursday, June 28th, 6PM
Wallace Visitor Center, Room A
Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt NHS
4097 Albany Post Road
Hyde Park, New York
From Route 9, enter the main park entrance and proceed to the visitor parking area. Enter the Wallace Visitor Center and proceed to multipurpose room A. |
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TriassicDoc
El Presidente
Joined: 25 Mar 2007
Posts: 1235
Location: Poughquag
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| Posted: Wed Jun 27, 2012 10:14 pm Post subject: |
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| I will try to make it. |
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Tim845
Joined: 02 Sep 2006
Posts: 3684
Location: Poughkeepsie
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| Posted: Thu Jun 28, 2012 8:27 am Post subject: |
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Kind of a moot point now maybe, but it was under the National Parks direction that we had an IMBA weekend there, with trailbuilding etc. Turnout was about 40.
I know going to meetings isnt as glamorous as being in the woods, but sometimes you've got to...
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Pedal, b*tches!! |
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jamesframes
Joined: 30 Sep 2006
Posts: 2655
Location: new paltz, NY
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| Posted: Thu Jun 28, 2012 10:29 am Post subject: |
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Comments sent-
_________________
If I can bicycle, I bicycle.
David Attenborough
Support your LBS-Bicycle Depot New Paltz NY |
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fjhilde
Joined: 11 Nov 2006
Posts: 78
Location: Wappinger Falls
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| Posted: Wed Jul 11, 2012 5:16 pm Post subject: Trail Plan Comments for Roosevelt-Vanderbilt NHS |
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Hi, I've sent in my comments via the PDF file along with some emails to NPS folks. Certainly this will change some of the trail use at FDR in some negative way, given that we've had free rein for years, however it does also offer us a way to establish official trail access given that the NPS is on a path to formalize access to this property.
_________________
Ride on my friends,
Frank
--(-iii-)<() |
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fjhilde
Joined: 11 Nov 2006
Posts: 78
Location: Wappinger Falls
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| Posted: Sat Jan 05, 2013 10:28 am Post subject: FDR Trails Master Plan Status |
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Hi, I have exchanged some emails with Dave Hayes from the NPS this week and was informed that the trails plan is near completion. There's a final review expected to complete Jan 15. After this is a final edit followed with review by the Regional Director for signature.
This final plan conforms closely to what we reviewed during the summer. Indications are that 3 trails along the Farm Lane will be opened up for bicycles after some work and signage for which I've offered to help. Hopefully sometime soon here in 2013 this will wrap up.
Ride On My Friends!
Frank |
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