Christian Hill Sidepath

The Christian Hill Sidepath project is a proposed development initiative aimed at enhancing pedestrian and cyclist safety along Christian Hill Road in. This initiative has been prompted by the planned development by TransFarmations, Inc. at 17 Christian Hill Road, which includes multiple housing units. Given the road's existing challenges—poor sight lines, lack of shoulder facilities, and constrained space—the addition of a sidepath is crucial to accommodate the expected increase in vehicular, pedestrian, and cycling traffic.

Project Context

Christian Hill Road is currently a difficult and unsafe route for non-motorized users due to its narrow lanes and limited visibility. The proposed development at Jacobson Farm will significantly increase local traffic and pedestrian activity, making the current conditions increasingly untenable. The Amherst Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) has recommended the construction of an 8-foot-wide separated sidepath along the east side of Christian Hill Road to provide a safe, accessible route connecting the new development to Amherst Village near Spaulding Field.

Proposed Improvements

The sidepath will offer a high-quality, bidirectional, multi-use space beside the street, enhancing access for all ages and abilities.

The proposed sidepath configuration along Christian Hill Rd
The proposed sidepath configuration along Christian Hill Rd

Unlike traditional on-road facilities, this sidepath will help preserve the rural and small-town community character by providing the following features:

  • Safety and Accessibility: An 8-foot wide path with 2 feet of clearance on either side, ensuring enough space for various types of users, from pedestrians to cyclists.
  • Horizontal Separation: A minimum of 8-10 feet from the roadway, with natural vegetation as a buffer to enhance safety and maintain the area's aesthetic.
  • Enhanced Crossing: Proposed enhancements at midblock crossings to ensure safe access across Christian Hill Rd for residents on the southern side.
  • Material and Design: The path should use either terra cotta-colored asphalt surfacing to increase visibility and safety. While not optimal, if budget constraints are too limiting, crushed stone may be considered as an option. These choice of material fits naturally into the rural setting and is durable enough to withstand local weather conditions without significant maintenance.

Community Impact and Benefits

The sidepath is expected to significantly improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly for those accessing local schools and community facilities. It will also enhance property values by improving local infrastructure and accessibility. The addition of this path aligns with Amherst's goals of promoting sustainable, non-motorized transport and improving the quality of life for its residents.

Need for Action

The BPAC strongly urges the inclusion of the Christian Hill Sidepath in the development plans of TransFarmations, Inc. This infrastructure is not merely an enhancement; it is a necessity to ensure the safety and well-being of future residents and the existing community. As such, the committee remains open to further discussions and collaborations to see this critical project to fruition.

Public letters submitted by BPAC to the Planning Board and TransFarmations are listed below:

DateFile
2024-January-14RE: Robert H. Jacobson Revocable Trust, Laurie Stevens, Trustee (Owner) & TransFarmations, Inc. (Applicant), 17 Christian Hill Road, PIN #s: Tax Map 005-148-000 & 005-100-000
2023-April-04RE: CASE #: PZ17124-032323 - Robert H. Jacobson Revocable Trust, Laurie Stevens, Trustee (Owner) & TransFarmations, Inc. (Applicant), 17 Christian Hill Road, PIN #s: Tax Map 005-148-000 & 005-100-000 - Conditional Use Permit.
2023-February-24RE: CASE #: PZ12161-121319 - Robert H. Jacobson Revocable Trust, Laurie Stevens, Trustee (Owner) & TransFarmations, Inc. (Applicant), 17 Christian Hill Road, PIN #s: Tax Map 005-148-000 & 005-100-000 - Conditional Use Permit. Design Review.