19th Street Trail in Mandan, ND

As a key element of the Bismarck-Mandan Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, the 19th Street Trail project from Macedonia Avenue SE to ND 6 is part of a prominent east-west link in the City of Mandan and was the second phase of a larger trail project in the area. The trail project was introduced during the Safe Routes to School study process and was strongly encouraged and supported by area residents.

Design Solutions for Safe Transportation Alternatives

Prior to this project, there were no pedestrian or bicycle facilities or ADA crossings in this area. Steep ditch slopes and narrow shoulders also severely limited space for pedestrians and bicyclists. SRF provided design solutions for the shared use path, consisting of design and environmental clearance, with careful consideration of the topography and proximity to Fort Lincoln Elementary School. The three main improvements included:

• New 10-foot wide multi-use trail on the south side of 19th Street, completing the connection of the trail system to provide access to existing facilities over the Heart River
• Installation of two new rectangular rapid flashing beacon (RRFB) systems 4th Avenue SW and Canyon Road SW
• New rectangular rapid flashing beacon (RRFB) systems, providing designated, highly visible crossings for pedestrians and bicycles
• Culvert extension at the stream crossing just west of Macedonia Avenue and removal of guardrail that did not meet current design standards

Addressing Project Limitations

Creek Crossing: As one of the main design challenges, SRF evaluated multiple options for the creek crossing on the east end of the project. The end result was a cost-effective solution that minimized structure costs and right of way impacts while still providing a safe transportation corridor.

Right of Way and Drainage: With residential development along the entire corridor, the majority of the design needed to occur within the limited existing right of way. The design team had to balance where to place the proposed trail facility to match into existing properties, while maintaining adequate drainage through the project area.

Construction Operations: Because of the project’s proximity to Fort Lincoln Elementary School, the construction schedule and staging needed to ensure that a majority of construction activities were completed in the summer months. Construction preparation started as early as possible in the spring and heavy construction started as soon as school was out for the summer. The construction schedule ultimately minimized impacts to school operations and traffic along 19th Street during the school year.

With the growing residential developments and the nearby elementary school as the focus of the design, the completed project provides a safe transportation alternative to driving and a protected connection to the school. The purpose of the project was not only to minimize existing safety issues but to also prevent as many vehicle and pedestrian collisions, injuries, and fatalities as possible. Overwhelmingly supported by residents and local officials, this project will provide benefits well into the future as Mandan continues to grow and thrive.

Resource Links:
19th Street Trail Phase II
Safe Routes to School

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Roadways
Parks, Trails & Recreation

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Bismarck, ND