Unpaved Greenways The establishment of linear greenways is a key com- ponent of broader land conservation efforts, connect- ing preserved natural areas to and through communi- ties. Thousands of acres of environmentally sensitive wildlife habitat and corridors are managed through the Jan K. Platt Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Plan (ELAPP). The natural ecosystems of Hillsborough County include pine flatwoods, depres- sion marsh, sandhill, xeric scrub, floodplain forest, and saltern/coastal areas. Unpaved greenways connect and provide access to the scenic and natural areas of Hillsborough County. Loop and spur unpaved greenways within preserved areas are popular for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Unpaved greenway alignments lead to points of interest such as bodies of water and view- points, meandering to follow topography and water- ways and utilizing the existing tree canopies to pro- vide much - desired shade. Waysides at scenic over- looks or other points of interest away from trailheads can incorporate additional elements such as interpre- tive signs and shade structures that provide tempo- rary shelter from sun or rain ( Figure 29 ). Boardwalks can provide connections, where appropriate, while protecting wetland areas and highlighting environ- mentally sensitive areas ( Figure 30 ).
Unpaved Greenway Amenities Attracting specific user groups, unpaved greenways often incorporate features and amenities targeted to those groups. For example, unpaved greenways can be added in the same corridor as paved greenways ( Figure 31 ). The parallel pathways can improve safety and comfort by providing dedicated spaces for differ- ent speeds of travel and types of users, especially those on horseback. Enhanced amenities for equestri- ans can include expanded parking areas for horse trailers, watering troughs, and hitching posts for hors- es. Amenities for mountain bicyclists can include bicy- cle repair stands, wash stations, and dirt parks where skills can be practiced. Like paved trails, unpaved trails should meet the needs of all intended users and be designed in com- pliance with appropriate County, State, and Federal guidance and regulations. Guidelines for unpaved rec- reational trails are included in Section F245 of the ABA Accessibility Standards, issued under the Federal Ar- chitectural Barriers Act (ABA).
Figure 29. Interpretive signage along an unpaved greenway highlighting the natural environment
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY GREENWAYS AND TRAILS MASTER PLAN
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