D&K engineers completed the alignment analysis, developed final design, and prepared final engineering plans and contract documents for the Millstone Hill West Bike Path, a 7,100 ft-long, 10 ft-wide shared use pathway for pedestrians, bicyclists, and other non motorized users. As part of the larger Central Vermont Regional Path, the Millstone Hill West Bike Path provides connection between the Websterville and Graniteville area, the elementary school and Graniteville neighborhood, recreational and residential areas, and commercial and industrial operations.

The project was developed through the VTrans Local Transportation Facilities (LTF) Section and followed the LTF Guidebook. Professional services included project definition (purpose and need, project scoping, information gathering, public participation), right-of-way, utility considerations, final design and contract documents, and engineering services during bid and construction. Environmental documentation and permitting services included: Categorical Exclusion, Wetlands, Historical & Archaeological, Stormwater, NPDES, Corps of Engineers, Stream Alteration, and Act 250.

The design incorporated reuse and recycling techniques, avoidance of natural resources, and extensive alignment analysis. Bridges (90 and 60-ft spans) were used to span a large wetland and a stream. D&K advocated use of recycled steel beams for the longer bridge and adaptive reuse of a historic steel truss bridge for the shorter span, resulting in significant cost savings to the Town. Trees removed from the path during construction were ground on site and used for erosion control. D&K was proactive in right-of-way acquisition, engaging property owners through early and consistent coordination and informational meetings resulting in significant public and landowner support for the project. Work included property owner meetings, development of preliminary and final right-of-way plans, property appraisals, and assistance with review of right-of-way documents.

DuBois & King conducted an alignment study and prepared conceptual level engineering plans for the first phase of the 1.6-mile-long shared use Granite Museum Segment, resulting in a preferred path alignment, preparation of conceptual level engineering plans, and execution of the required NEPA Categorical Exclusion document. The alignment established the basis for the subsequent design.

DuBois & King continued as the City’s consultant for design, permitting, and construction phase services. The path is designed to provide a source of outdoor recreation and an alternative commuter route, and to connect neighborhoods and businesses. The path is a 10-ft wide paved facility and includes two pedestrian bridges over the Stevens Branch of the Winooski River, as well as several retaining walls to support the path and adjacent side slopes. Interpretive stations are planned to highlight Barre’s rich history in the granite industry and to add interest for path users. The path is being designed to thread its way through a built-up urban area and will be located between the VT Route 62 corridor and adjacent neighborhoods and commercial businesses.

DuBois & King services include topographic field survey; identification and assessment of alignment options and environmental resources; preparation of conceptual, preliminary, and final plans and Categorical Exclusion documentation; permitting; right-of-way documentation and acquisition plans; preparation of contract documents; coordination with utilities, VTrans, and the Vermont Railway; landscape design; and design services during construction.

DuBois & King has actively participated in meetings with property owners, the City Council, the public, and the Barre City Bike Path Committee, and has provided support of the Bike Path Committee’s public outreach efforts, including preparation of quarterly newsletters and displays for local events such as the Barre Heritage Festival and first ever Barre Bike and Fitness Festival.