MRGI/NOPS/NDPW/HyGround Team: Jin Rui Yap, Eliana Perlmutter, Joanna Kenneally, Sophia Poulos
2015-2016: In collaboration with the Mill River Greenway Initiative (MRGI), the Northampton Office of Planning and Sustainability, the Northampton Department of Public Works, and HyGround Engineering, this student team designed an extension of the Mass Central Rail Trail from Northampton MA into neighboring Haydenville MA. The trail extension involved a flat portion continuing the current trail and a sloped section traversing a steep slope to South Main Street.
The team initially collected data about the existing site conditions using various surveying methods and designed a drainage system for the flat portion of the trail. Then the team developed a design for the steep portion, including trail alignments, a grading plan, retaining walls, drainage and erosion control plans, and footings for a proposed structure. The team prepared 30% designs for two options: an earthwork solution with a paved asphalt path and an elevated boardwalk with concrete surfacing. The team presented both options to the Haydenville community at a public meeting.
The team delivered a 30% design package, including design drawings, specifications, and cost estimates for both options, to their multiple liaisons to inform future permitting and funding requests.