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ARTICLE S (a) Project: Minuteman Bikeway Preservation CPA Category: Recreational Use/Open Space (50150) Amount Requested: $320,000 Amount Recommended: $320,000 CPC Vote: (9-0) Project Description: The Minuteman Bikeway was opened in 1993. Over the last sixteen years there has been deterioration in numerous areas of Lexington's 5.5 mile section of the Bikeway. The deterioration is the result of a number of factors including improper drainage,root penetration., and erosion. In addition to the long-term deterioration of the Bikeway, there has been more recent and significant damage at particular locations. This project will prevent further damage from these problems and protect and preserve the condition of the Bikeway.Damage will be prevented through the installation of root barriers, drainage repairs,and swale restoration. The Town's Engineering Division.,with input from the Bicycle Advisory Committee,has identified key areas that need to be addressed to prevent further deterioration and to mitigate hazards to users. The work being proposed is beyond the scope of normal maintenance and is intended to address the problems caused by increased storm water runoff,erosion, and root heaving along discrete portions of the path(items not addressed in the initial construction of the Bikeway).Remediation will involve the installation of swales, culverts and other drainage solutions to address water flow and erosion control, and selective root pruning and installation of a root barrier to address the root migration and heaving problems. Project Goals and Objectives: • Mitigate pavement erosion,washouts and other damage to preserve the Bikeway. • Design and build drainage swales in several locations to enhance ground water recharge and slow street runoff beside the Bikeway into brooks. • Redesign,improve and/or replace several stream conduits that cross under the Bikeway. This will improve the health of the brooks while preserving the integrity of the Bikeway pavement and roadbed. • Mitigate root heaves on the trail bed caused by growth of large trees along the Bikeway by cutting roots and installing root barriers in several stretches. • Preserve usage of the Bikeway with these mitigation measures, keeping it a safe place for walking, cycling,rollerblading and other recreational activities. • Preserve this valuable resource for future generations to enjoy. Project Benefit: The Minuteman Bikeway has value to the community even beyond its importance as a recreational resource for Lexington citizens. It is also an economic resource,bringing large numbers of visitors to and through Lexington during most months of the year.The long-term viability of the Bikeway is in jeopardy unless the drainage and root problems are properly addressed. Funding Request: This FY 2011 request for$320,000 is to perform necessary drainage and root mitigation.The cost estimate for this project was developed by the Town's Engineering Division and is based on past similar projects. This request is in addition to $175,000 appropriated under Article 31(i) from Annual Town Meeting in 2007 for Bikeway paving, as yet unspent due to a re-examination of the entire Bikeway project. (Paving does not qualify for CPA funds.) 6