As many are aware, KT and the Burke Chamber, received a USDA Rural Business Development Grant to fund a Network Capacity Study that was completed this past Spring. Public engagement was a key component throughout the process and we were grateful to learn our community’s wants, concerns, and vision for KT’s future. The study determined that KT had sufficient capacity, but there were significant safety issues and imbalances in usage. Recommendations focused on safer traffic and pedestrian flow and dispersion of users. One specific strategy that we were excited to tackle right away is the Safe Road and Trail Crossings project.
The goal of the Safe Road and Trail Crossings project is improved safety for drivers and trail users where roads and trails intersect. Specific interventions will include tactile “rumble strips” to signal riders that they are approaching a road crossing, slow down and come to a complete stop. These rumble strips will not only promote rider and driver safety, but also help control erosion where the trail meets the road. There will also be signage that includes Stop Signs in advance of the road’s right of way, and adjacent “You Are Here” maps delineating crossing specifics and including emergency evacuation details. There vertical road signs will also be implemented to signal drivers that they are approaching a trail crossing.
KT was able to pursue this Capacity Study recommendation due to generous grant funding from Northern Forest Center’s Destination Development Initiative. The goal of this grant program is to improve outdoor recreation opportunities in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. It supports projects that help communities and organizations serve residents and visitors, plus invests in projects that enhance economic development and outdoor recreation in our region’s rural communities.
KTA is grateful to be taking action on this project that was suggested by our own community members. We are glad to be improving the safety where roads and trails intersect for drivers and trail users, community members and visitors. This project’s infrastructure, paired with the expanded KT Ambassador Program, will hold trail users accountable, monitor safe road and trail crossings, and promote engagement and education with the goals of creating a safer experience for those walking, biking, and driving, strengthening the economic impact across the region, as well as relieving pressure and stress on landowners, our host communities, and roads.
