Mr. Money provided some photographs of the existing wooden walkways at the Holiday Beach Conservation Area. He noted that they are in poor condition and are closed to the public at this time. He noted that the plan for reconstruction of the wooden walkways, that include a chair rail on either side of a six foot wide span made of cedar wood over steel. He noted that some of the wooden walkways are raised and the ERCA is mindful of the grade of the incline that is required for accessible compliance.
The Chair asked whether hand rails had been considered by ERCA for the portions of the walkway that are raised, particularly over waterways.
Mr. Money indicated that no hand rails were planned for the reconstruction, but taking the suggestion under advisement will bring that design element to the team for review.
Mr. Money indicated that the construction would take place sometime this fall, likely in October to avoid any disruption to the turtle hibernation.
Mr. Money discussed other upgrades to conservation area trails and maintenance activities to return the gravel trails back to the proper grade and condition for pedestrians, and other human traffic. He noted that the gravel trails are compacted and made up of fine screenings for optimal accessibility.