Matrix delivered GIS and land use expertise in developing a comprehensive, map-based master plan for the Arkansas River Trail Extension, one of the most critical segments of the Pueblo River Trail System in Pueblo County, Colorado. The Extension is the lynchpin connection between St. Charles Mesa and the Arkansas River Regional Trail, linking that community to Pueblo Lake State Park and areas beyond. It was first studied in 1998, but changes in land use, local trail systems, environmental standards, and community priorities necessitated a more current evaluation and development guidance. Matrix’ GIS and Landscape Architecture teams collaborated on a new master plan that will support informed decision-making well into the future.

The teams’ comprehensive analysis of area topography, watershed characteristics, protected wetlands, land ownership, and other variables supported the full integration of nearly 43 miles of proposed trail improvements into the existing trail systems to provide pedestrian, bicycle, and ADA-compliant access and overall enhanced connectivity. Proposed improvements included trail alignments, pedestrian bridges, drainage culverts, and landscape restoration areas.

Reflecting our expertise in and commitment to presenting complex information in highly functional and easy-to-understand formats, the Arkansas River Trail Extension Master Plan incorporated a 73-page, indexed map book that integrated extensive data layers to provide users access to information ranging from contour lines and floodplain boundaries to trail features in cross-referenced large-scale and detailed, area-specific maps. Planners, landowners, and others could evaluate and prioritize projects, as well as easily update the map book, for strategic, efficient, and holistic trail development that realizes the community’s vision for the system.