The Dakota Rail Regional Trail is a 28-mile regional trail extending from Wayzata to the McLeod County line, west of New Germany. SRF worked with Three Rivers Park District and Carver County to prepare master plans and provided subsequent design and construction administration services.
Obtaining input from the public in the development of the various trail segments was an important aspect of SRF’s work. Through numerous public open houses, resident surveys, and meetings with the affected communities, there was generally strong community support for the trail. SRF worked closely with clients to determine the best methods for resolving the issues.
In the case of the Three Rivers Park District segment, it was the creation of a design development task force made up of representatives of all the affected communities. For the Carver County segment it was focused on discussions with various user groups.
Highlights of the constructed Dakota Rail Trail include:
- Numerous at-grade trail crossings
- Four bridge rehabilitation projects with custom railings
- Five new trail bridges
- Trailhead development and system-wide signage
- Stormwater management
- Trail rest areas
Reusing the existing railroad ballast for the trail base significantly reduced construction costs and accelerated the build timeline. Since completion, the trail has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from both users and nearby communities, with usage levels exceeding master plan projections by more than threefold.
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Dakota Rail Regional Trail
Three Rivers Park District
Carver County, MN
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