Title
Resolution in Support of Further Study and Exploration of the Birthplace of America Trail.
Purpose
PURPOSE/BACKGROUND:
Following the success of the Virginia Capital Trail, and other signature trails, as tools for promoting community health, recreation, tourism, and placemaking, the Birthplace of America Trail Study: Connecting to the Virginia Capital Trail has been prepared by the Hampton Roads Transportation Planning Organization (HRTPO) in conjunction with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), consultant Michael Baker, and Hampton Roads localities and cycling organizations.
Two-thirty mile extensions of the Virginia Capital Trail are proposed stretching from Jamestown to Fort Monroe and the South Hampton Roads Trail. The recommended Peninsula route has been evaluated alongside recommendations of the recently adopted Bike Walk Hampton: A Strategic Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan. Development of a signature path is a recommendation of Bike Walk Hampton.
Discussion:
This resolution demonstrates support for the preferred route but does not imply financial commitment from agencies and localities.
Impact:
Study and exploration of the Birthplace of America Trail is in keeping with the recommendations of Bike Walk Hampton: A Strategic Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan, which recommends development of a signature path or trail in the City of Hampton.
Recommendation:
Rec
Staff recommends approval of this resolution.
Body
WHEREAS, the City of Hampton adopted Bike Walk Hampton: A Strategic Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan in December 2016;
WHEREAS, development of a signature multi-use path is a recommendation of Bike Walk Hampton;
WHEREAS, the proposed extension of Virginia Capital Trail is a thirty-mile signature path extending from Jamestown to Fort Monroe and achieves a goal of the Bike Walk Hampton plan, and
WHEREAS, a path will promote active transportation, offer additional recreation opportunities in the City of Hampton, and connect both residents and tourists to a wealth of natural and cultural resources.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Hampton supports further study and exploration of signature paths connecting to the Virginia Capital Trail.