C6.5: Support Physical Activity – Above Green

INTENT

Improve human health by providing on-site opportunities that encourage outdoor physical activity.

REQUIREMENTS

Estimate the total number of site users and the peak times of use.
- Identify, describe, and list the four largest user groups.
Develop and implement a functional plan that encourages outdoor physical activity for the largest four distinct user groups identified.
Provide services to support site users during physical activity (e.g., drinking fountains, bicycle racks, emergency call boxes).
Provide at least two of the following five outdoor physical activity features:
- On-site trail or bicycle path that is a minimum of one mile (1.61 kilometers) in length, and is either a closed loop or has a turn-around at both ends.
  - If connecting to either an off-site bicycle lane or multi-use trail that meets the local minimum standards, the on-site trail or bicycle path must be a minimum of 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) in length.
- Playgrounds that are physically challenging and engaging
- Fitness courses (e.g., pull-up bars, disc golf, steps, inclined surfaces)
- Physical activity programs (e.g., yoga classes, tai chi, regular sports programs) to be established within six months of project completion
- Scheduled events that support physical activity (e.g., tournaments, races)

RECOMMENDED STRATEGIES

Identify potential site users and the physical activities preferred by intended user groups.
Locate desirable and accessible spaces on site to enable and encourage physical activity.
For small sites, creatively design meandering pathways to maximize on-site physical activity opportunities.
If public sidewalks are used as part or all of a trail or pathway, conduct a walkability audit to assess the safety and desirability of the walking routes.
If a private site provides access to the public, consider pedestrian level lighting as part of the design.
For larger sites, provide a variety of opportunities for active living that may physically challenge the users and offer seating at key nodes of activity.