Infrastructure for alternative modes of transportation is just starting to take shape in Florida. The River of Grass Greenway is one of several regional efforts to create more and safer access for non-motorized transportation to the natural assets of South Florida.
In collaboration with AECOM, Nelson\Nygaard analyzed the traffic impacts of the 12- to 14-foot wide pathway envisioned across the Everglades National Park between Naples and Miami. Nelson\Nygaard provided the projected reduction of automobile traffic and improvements to safety that would be possible and what would be required to achieve them. Our efforts included using custom-developed tools, such as our Trip Reduction Impact Analysis model, to assess the potential benefits to be gained from infrastructure, services, and partnerships within the corridor. The work also identified threats to this sustainable investment approach (such as the overbuilding of parking lots and visitor site entrance congestion).
The feasibility study of the Greenway is identifying alignments and patch design elements via an open community process. The path will be suitable for bicycling, walking, bird watching, fishing and general enjoyment of the Everglades.