The objective of this project was to develop a new trail planning curriculum and conduct a trail research project in the Portland metropolitan area. The curriculum was created for a community service-based, University Capstone course at Portland State University, with Metro regional government as the community course partner. Project goals include:
_ Expanded opportunities for undergraduate students to study trail design and planning for walking and bicycling;
_ Practical application of knowledge to a planning project through research and data collection on trail use;
_ Raising awareness of bicycle and pedestrian travel among students across disciplines;
_ Fostering continuing involvement and interest in regional bicycle and pedestrian travel and trail development;
_ Research on the amount and type of use of certain regional trails to demonstrate their value in the regional transportation network; and
_ Creating a model for trail planning and research curriculum.