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I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Asphalt Asphalt is the most versatile trail surface choice although it is the most expensive. The trail surface is suited to bicyclists, pedestrians, inline skaters, and allows more accessibility to users with handicaps. Asphalt weathers and ages better than gravel but has disadvantages. For example, asphalt does not allow precipitation to infiltrate which increases runoff and erosion alongside the trail. Erosion problems can be minimized with the use of mulch. Equipment and heat from installation can also be intensive and may cause short term effects on vegetation. Table 2 lists the costs of an asphalt trail surface. TABLE 2: Cost of Asphalt Trail Surface Cost Per Mile for Asphalt Trail (Mn DNR, 1996) cost/mile clear route of vegetation and stumps $5,950 strip topsoil $1,800 grade preparation $2,650 crushed rock 12' wide, 6" of class #5 $18,300 asphalt 8' wide, #2.5 $14,100 topsoil or mulch along shoulder $1,700 TOTAL $44,500 Boardwalk A boardwalk is required to cross low areas and water. Approximately 1,420 feet of boardwalk is needed for the proposed Trott Brook Trail. The Helical Pier System, used by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, is a boardwalk trail that can be tailored to specific needs such as width, height, soil characteristics, and weight capacity. This system is simple to install and causes very little soil disturbance. The piers have a maximum depth of sixty feet allowing their use in almost any area and soil. The piers used in the Helical Pier System look similar to auger bits. Threads located at the bottom turn into the soil and eliminate the need for drilling post holes. The maximum weight capacity of this system is 10,000 pounds, allowing the possibility for emergency vehicles to access remote areas. Less expensive lightweight systems 15