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4 <br />The relocation of the trail would allow the Town to abandon the existing stairs <br />which provide trail access from Caldwell Street. The stairs are a significant <br />barrier to handicapped and elderly people. Moving the trail location <br />approximately 120 ft. would allow the Town to build a trail without stairs and at a <br />reasonable grade. <br />The Chapel Hill Greenways Commission is exploring the possibility of paving <br />the Tanyard Branch Trail. If paving is to be accomplished, the present location <br />of the trail would be unsuitable due to severe slopes. We would most likely <br />pave the connector between Caldwell and McMasters as well as the main trail <br />to Umstead Park. We think that paving the trail would increase trail use, solve <br />maintenance problems, allow bicycle use, and allow the trail to become <br />wheelchair accessible. <br />Any easement agreement could be written to specify that the Town would be <br />responsible for the maintenance, security, and liability of the trail. We typically <br />take on these responsibilities when negotiating for easements with private <br />landowners. <br />We ask that Orange County consider granting the Town of Chapel Hill a <br />pedestrian and non - motorized vehicle easement over the 1.78 -acre tract <br />indicated on the attached map. If you require any additional information please <br />call me at 968 -2784. <br />Sincerely, <br />Bill Webster, Administrative Officer <br />Chapel Hill Parks & Recreation Department <br />CC: Sonna Loewenthal, Assistant Town Manager <br />Michael Loveman, Director of Parks & Recreation <br />