Vision

Create a 100+ mile interconnected trail system while respecting the natural ecosystems and cultural resources

Goals

• Identify locations of future public trails and connecting routes
• Provide outdoor recreation opportunities on trails through parks and conservation areas
• Provide opportunities for bike-to-work commutes and safe routes to schools and other local trips by walking and cycling
• Increase conservation through reduced use of cars, fuel and roadways
• Increase opportunities for health and fitness
• Promote safety through proper design of trails and road crossings, construction of trails separated from roadways and education supporting safe use of trails
• Provide connections to transit and on-road bikeways

Objectives

• Connect new miles of trail to existing 34+ miles of trail
• Add at least 15 miles of new trail in the next 5 years
• Identify and promote an initial trail to demonstrate the importance of connectivity (targeting North Eldridge Parkway Trail
• Develop a strategic implementation plan
• Prioritize implementation of trail projects
• Create partnerships for implementation
• Identify funding strategies
• Develop minimum design standards for a variety of trail types
• Develop trails that are light on the land and consistent with USACE criteria for sensitive areas
• Develop standards for operating and sustainably maintaining trails
• Establish user guidelines; communicate and enforce them
• Develop educational programs to promote the trails plan and encourage use of existing trails for all purposes
• Communicate project goals and objectives on the internet and other public forums
• Incorporate environmental and cultural interpretation opportunities when developing trails
• Update and publicize West Houston trail maps regardless of governmental jurisdictions
• Encourage volunteerism to fund and implement trails, trail maintenance and patrol