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Crossing Analysis for Phases 3 and 4 of the Bolin Creek Greenway.
PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND: The Town Engineer, Sungate Design Group, has completed an analysis of four crossing locations identified in the Conceptual Master Plan as potential pedestrian bridge locations for Phases 3 and 4 of the Bolin Creek Greenway. The purpose of this agenda item is to present the findings of the crossing analysis, provide the Town Council an opportunity to ask questions, and receive Council direction on next steps. A representative from Sungate Design Group will present the findings.
The Town allocated funding in the FY2026 operating budget for a crossing analysis of the potential locations for the pedestrian budges identified in the 2009 Bolin Creek Conceptual Master Plan for phases 3 and 4 of the greenway (Attachment A). Phases 3 and 4 are the longest phases of the greenway and together form the spine of the system. The conceptual master plan identified two possible alignments for phases 3 and 4; the Town Council selected the “creekside alignment” in October 2023 (Attachment B). (For additional information the Bolin Creek Greenway, please see the project webpage here: Bolin Creek Greenway | Carrboro, NC - Official Website <https://www.carrboronc.gov/2762/Bolin-Creek-Greenway>).
The greenway is designed to meander along Bolin Creek with crossing points at various intervals. The purpose of analysis is to evaluate the potential flood impacts for different types of bridges at the four different locations. The result of the analysis provides key information on the cost to construct and install different types/sizes of bridges and the difficulties and extent of potential impacts associated with installation (clearing, direct access, etc.). It also guides, with a greater level of specificity, the greenway profile and alignment. This information is necessary for design to move forward, and for the Town to prepare preliminary plans and to develop more accurate construction costs. Opportunities to divide the project into additional, smaller phases could also be explored.
It should be noted that the Town does not currently control the land on which the trail would be located. Easements and/or property would need to be acquired as part of the right-of-way certification process, and it would be beneficial to begin those conversations early. In addition, the feasibility study for the J Branch project is scheduled for completion in May 2027. Given the proximity of the J Branch project to Bolin Creek, there may be opportunities to coordinate the projects and realize potential cost efficiencies (Attachment C).
The executive summary and project map have been included with the agenda item. The full report, anticipated at 20 pages will be posted to the Town webpage.
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Department
DEPARTMENT: Planning
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Fiscal and Staff Impact
FISCAL AND STAFF IMPACT: The project cost for the analysis, reporting and presentation to the Council is $37,200. The Town has allocated $500,000 in the FY2027 budget to cover the costs associated with preliminary design (15% to 30% design). The Town does not currently have funding allocated for the development of construction-level plans or for construction.
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Community Impact
COMMUNITY IMPACT: There is no direct community impact associated with receiving the presentation. Future decisions regarding the alignment, bridge locations, and design of Phases 3 and 4 may affect trail access and connectivity, neighboring properties, and the experience of residents and other users of the Bolin Creek corridor. The project may also create temporary impacts during construction and longer-term changes to how the area is accessed and used. Phases 3 and 4 of the Bolin Creek Greenway have generated significant community interest, and future design and implementation will provide opportunities for continued community engagement.
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Climate Impact
CLIMATE IMPACT: There is no climate impact associated with receiving the presentation. Decisions relating to the three alternatives, however, will affect the final design of the greenway, including the cost of design and construction. In addition, the location of the trail and the selection, location, and number of bridges may affect access to the trail, neighboring properties, the extent of tree clearing, and disturbance to natural habitat.
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