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Reports, Studies & Publications
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In February 2005, Islands stakeholders completed the Champlain Islands Trail Report to evaluate on- and off-road options in Grand Isle County, between the existing Island Line Trail to the south and Quebec's Route Verte to the north. The Rutland Railroad's abandoned Island Line corridor was a major focus of that report. The corridor is mostly in private ownership, the report's recommendations and conclusions are a result of extensive outreach to landowners. The study was managed by the Lake Champlain Islands Chamber of Commerce and overseen by the Island Line Steering Committee. Download the current version of the report below. For info, contact
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Right Click or Control Click a link below to download one of two versions of the report:
Champlain Islands Trail Report (Low Resolution PDF, 1.5 MB)
Champlain Islands Trail Report (High Resolution PDF, 5 MB)
In 2009, the Island Line Steering Committee completed and presented to the county towns a new study based upon the opportunities and constraints identified by their previous report. Unfortunately, only a few sections of the Island Line were identified as having the potential for development as a rail-trail in the near-term. As a result, the Lake Champlain Bikeway/Island Line Improvement Plan focused on improvements to the existing route through the Islands, the Lake Champlain Bikeway - specifically, the development of bicycle rest areas that would not only provide users with opportunities to stop and enjoy the lake and the spectacular views, but would also encourage riders to patronize local businesses, farm stands, and enjoy the area's natural attractions. In cooperation with the towns, the committee will also continue to pursue future opportunities to develop the railbed as they arise.
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A two-year planning process completed in 2004 determined that 3-foot shoulders should be added to South Street in order to make it safe for bicyclists and pedestrians. South Street is the connection between the causeway and the village center. While voters approved $120,000 in local funds for the improvement project, over $800,000 still needs to be raised. Our projections are that this project will take about 5 years to complete. For more info, contact South Hero Administrative Officer
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South Hero Village to Allen Point Access Linkage Feasibility and Alignment Study - June 2004
The Feasibility and Alignment study for South Street is available to download. Right Click or Control Click a link below to download the full report or text only.
Text Only (PDF, 3.08 MB)
Full Report (PDF, 19.2 MB)
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Local Motion continues development work on the Colchester/South Hero Causeway Bike Ferry. A federal earmark secured by Senator Sanders and a state transportation enhancement grant is funding the planning and engineering for the improvements needed to expand service. Local Motion has hired consultant Lamoureux & Dickinson to serve as the project manager. They will guide this project through the design, permitting and construction stages. Local Motion hopes to expand this popular but limited ferry service throughout the season. For more info, contact
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To help tie individual path sections together into a regional trail, stakeholders contracted with Landworks to develop a comprehensive sign and amenity plan for the trail. Products from this study include a trail logo, design of a comprehensive sign system, and identification of needed amenities (water fountains, parking, bathrooms, etc) along the trail. As this trail becomes more popular, clear signage and well-placed amenities will ensure the trail offers a safe and enjoyable experience to the growing number of trail users. For info, contact
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.
Right Click or Control Click the link below to download the plan:
Island Line Sign & Amenity Plan (10.1 MB) |
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The trail bridge and boardwalk were completed and opened in June 2004! This linkage has transform the local Burlington Bike Path and Colchester Causeway Trail into a regional 12-mile Island Line trail. VTrans, Burlington and Colchester have done a great job bringing this challenging project to fruition. For the most recent info and photos on the Winooski River bridge, go to our bridge page. |
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The City of Burlington is proposing substantial upgrades to its popular and often congested waterfront bike path. Improvements include trail widening in high-use areas, removing safety hazards, and providing gravel shoulders for joggers when feasible. Sections of the Burlington path are now 20 years old. For a copy of the report, contact
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, Burlington's Bike & Pedestrian Coordinator. The City is now working to secure funding for the improvements. |
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In 2003, stakeholders completed a plan for extending the trail south to South Burlington, Shelburne, and Charlotte. Much of the proposed path alignment parallels the active rail line – a "rail-with-trail" approach. The estimated project cost for the entire 13-mile stretch was $6 million. For a copy of the report, contact
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at the Chittenden County Metropolitan Planning Organization. |
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The ferry currently runs a limited schedule of August weekends and Labor Day Weekend from 10am-6pm. A donation of at least $5 is requested to help offset our operational expense. We are working to offer expanded service throughout the season.
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