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Councilmember Cook inquired if the requirement to place trails on both sides of the road can be <br />linked to density. <br /> <br />Assistant Director of Public Works Olson replied that it would apply to all medium or high- <br />density developments. He explained that the new trail standards will make existing trails deficient <br />and obviously they can't go forward and replace all of the existing trails. The new standards <br />would apply to all new development and then when possible segments of existing trail will be <br />upgraded. <br /> <br />Councilmember Cook stated that the policy should have different standards between a ten-foot <br />trail and sidewalks. <br /> <br />Assistant Director of Public Works Olson explained that sidewalks generally follow curb lines and <br />are generally not an issue. It is the trails the curve through trees and hills that bring out more <br />safety concerns. <br /> <br />Councilmember Cook inquired if staff was looking for trails to be constructed on both sides of the <br />road. <br /> <br />Assistant Director of Public Works Olson replied in certain situations. The requirement could <br />state trail or sidewalk must be constructed on both sides of the road under certain situations. <br /> <br />Chairperson Elvig inquired if the City was trying to build to a standard so that people can travel <br />20 mph on the trails. <br /> <br />Assistant Director of Public Works Olson explained that the trails would be designed so that a <br />person could travel 20 mph and still be safe that is not saying that is what they are going to be <br />encouraging people to do. <br /> <br />Chairperson Elvig stated that he did not want to create a situation where the City is allowing <br />really fast biking and scare away the walking residents or mom's pushing strollers. He questioned <br />if the City should be writing a standard for the type of activity they expect to see on the trails such <br />as 10 mph maximum speed. He was concerned that if they set a standard of 20 mph and they <br />have one curve that does not accommodate that speed they are going to set themselves up for <br />scrutiny. <br /> <br />Assistant Director of Public Works Olson replied that that was a good point, but you could say <br />the same thing at 10 mph. <br /> <br />Chairperson Elvig stated that he thinks that there are dual standards for trails and another thing <br />they should be considering is the use of electric carts on specific trails, especially in the Town <br />Center. <br /> <br />Public Works Committee/January 18, 2005 <br /> Page 22 of 27 <br /> <br /> <br />