EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Many
states have identified roads and trails to serve as bicycle touring routes for
travel, tourism and recreation. New Jersey's proximity to the coast and
location between major metropolitan centers presents a significant opportunity
for bicycle touring. Fortunately, New Jersey is particularly well suited for
the establishment of a major bicycle touring route. The state's land- use
patterns and development density allow an attractive route rich with history,
scenery and attractions. The High Point to Cape May Bicycle Route will be
emblematic of New Jersey, guiding bicyclists through diverse areas of our
state. Governor Whitman's commitment to bicycling as an important element to
improving the quality of life for the state's residents is evident in this
proposal to establish a major bike route through New Jersey.
The High
Point to Cape May Bicycle Route traverses the center of the state. It will
serve as a "spine" that will ultimately expand to a network of bicycle routes
and trails reaching across the state to link local bike routes. Cyclists may
choose to ride the entire 220 miles of the main route in a multi-day outing or
travel along short segments of the route as part of a local ride. In any case,
the route will provide encouragement to discover the excellent opportunities
New Jersey - offers bicyclists.
The selected route is located along
roadways that balance the goals of convenient connections to major attractions
and a pleasant cycling experience. The New Jersey Department of Transportation,
Bicycle Compatible Roadways and Bikeways Planning and Design Guidelines was
used to evaluate the route segments and not all roads along the selected route
fully meet "bicycle compatible" criteria. Various improvements will be
recommended at spot locations or along sections of the route that do not meet
NJDOT guidelines.
This preliminary touring route location study was
performed under the direction of a steering committee formed by the project's
sponsor, the New Jersey Department of Transportation. The Committee included
members of various State agencies and organizations. County Planning
Departments were contacted and information on bicycle facilities and
initiatives in each County was obtained. The route was selected after
evaluating all of the information against the chosen goals.
This Report
includes a description of the route, major attractions and services. The route
is also displayed on a statewide map in the body of the Report and on
county-by-county strip maps (located in the appendix) which show the route's
bicycle compatibility and services such as bicycle repair shops, restaurants,
camping, lodging, etc. The maps also indicate environmental, historic, cultural
and other attractions located along the way. This information is further
provided in tables in the Appendix.
The next phase of development will
have an expanded outreach program including all of the municipalities along the
identified route. The goal will be to obtain resolutions of support from all of
these communities. With this input and support, the route will be finalized and
plans for signing installation will be produced. Additional-products of the
next phase may include promotional materials and maps to be distributed in hard
copy and available on the Internet.
I. INTRODUCTION
The
concept of a single designated bike route crossing an entire state, a route
that is emblematic of that particular state, is not new. Many such routes have
been mapped out by cycling enthusiasts, planners and government officials all
over the country'. Along with the institutionalization of many of these routes
have come organized events. Some are extremely well known, such as Register's
Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI), the annual multi-day tour
across Iowa that attracts thousands. Others are less well known like Vermont's
'200 on 100', a 200 mile one day ride across all of Vermont from north to south
on scenic State Route 100 that attracts only a hardy few. Whether large or
small, well known or obscure, the events that seem to grow up around such
established routes are equally important to all who attempt them.
Bicycle touring has, since the mid-seventies, been a key component of
Vermont's very successful tourism strategy, and the presence of 'flagship'
routes like the '200 on 100' help add to the allure of cycling in that
particular state. Other states across the nation are catching on. Spurred on by
the availability of federal funds for the planning, design and implementation
of bike routes and trails, many states are now working on comprehensive plans
for improved cycling facilities in the hopes of not only attracting tourism
dollars from the growing market represented by bicycle touring enthusiasts, but
also in the hopes of reducing congestion on local roads and improving air
quality by encouraging more bicycle commuting.
Whether transcontinental
or village to village, on-road bike routes that offer a safe cycling
environment, access to services and attractions (such as scenic, cultural,
historic and ecological resources) are not only of use to experienced cycling
enthusiasts but serve also as a powerful incentive to casual cyclists as well.
Many adults, children and families would like very much to re-gain the sense of
fun and freedom that once made cycling a more popular mode of travel. Properly
planned and designed roadways and bike routes are a necessary prerequisite if
the general population are to feel safe riding their bikes on roadways once
again.
The State of New Jersey is particularly well suited to the
establishment of a major bike route. The idea of a designated bike route that
runs north-south, from one end of New Jersey to the other has been around for
quite some time with a number of routes being suggested over the years [See
map, next page - Preliminary Mapping - Existing Routes for an illustration of
three routes used in the past: NJDOT (1982), Rappaport (1984), Central Jersey
Bicycle Club (1998)]. Because of New Jersey's land-use patterns and development
density, the opportunity still remains for a single route that both offers a
bucolic ride rich with scenery and attractions and also connects many local
destinations. It is anticipated however, that the selected High Point to Cape
May Bicycle Touring Route identified by this report will serve as a "spine"
route or initiator, ultimately expanding to include a greater network of
bicycle compatible roadways and off-road/ paved/rail trail bicycling facilities
throughout New Jersey.1
II. ABOUT THIS STUDY
The
current study revisited the previously identified routes as well as well as
other alternatives considering current services, attractions and land use
patterns. The final selected Route was evaluated in terms of standardized
roadway bicycle compatibility actors. The total length of the selected Route is
approximately 242 miles (see map next p \FC: Selected Route, December, 1999).
Alternate and Spur routes are additional to this distance.
The
following steps were taken toward selection of a route:
- A list of project stakeholders was assembled and a steering
committee formed to direct the project (See Appendix for list of Steering
Committee members)
- Compile a variety of data sources including studies, plans,
maps (commercially distributed, county and other bike maps), technical
memoranda and other information. Compiled data was screened for potential route
alignments favoring attractions and cyclist service.
- Alternative Route alignments and spur route options were
reviewed. o Three possible alternative Routes were presented to the Steering
Committee.
- A single preferred Route alignment was selected by the
Steering Committee with several desired spur routes.
- Field investigation of the selected Route was conducted,
minor modifications were incorporated and necessary data on the final Route
roadways were assembled for standardized evaluation of the Route.
- The final Route and spurs have been mapped - see Selected
Route map - December, 1999.
- All route segments have been identified in a Bicycle
Compatibility Matrix and Filter Matrix found in the Appendix.
- Descriptions of most road segments, surrounding land uses,
terrain and significant constraints to bicycling are provided in text,
presented in order of travel from north to south starting from High Point State
Park, and separated by County. Following each Route description are a summary
listing of the major attractions, services and facilities provided in each
county.
Spur
Routes
Several opportunities for alternate routing or
"out-and-back" side trips have been identified along the course of the Route.
Spur routes can be viewed as not only providing .side trips from the main High
Point to Cape May Route, but also as providing access by bicycle to the High
Point to Cape May Route from these surrounding areas as well. Spur
routes may also provide starting points for possible cross-state bicycle
touring routes and other linkages.
Spur route distances have been kept
to a minimum (usually 5 miles or less, one way). However, where a significant
trail connection or service/attraction destination is accessible, a slightly
longer distance was allowed.
Bicycle Compatibility of
Selected Roadways
All of the streets and roadways that make up
the High Point to Cape May Route have been evaluated as to their bicycle
compatibility or "suitability" based on field measurements, field observed
posted speed limits and where available, traffic volume data obtained from the
NJDOT database. A printed copy of the Bicycle Compatibility Evaluation
Spreadsheet results for each roadway/road segment is presented in the Appendix.
The computer spreadsheet contains programming that evaluates entered roadway
data (traffic volume, roadway, posted speed limit, shoulder widths, and
presence or absence of parking) and presents the compatibility evaluation as
either True or False in accordance with Table 1. Bicycle Compatible Roadway
Pavement Widths of NJDOT Bicycle Compatible Roadways and Bikeways, Planning and
Design Guidelines, April, 1996 (page 7.).
The accompanying
County-by-County strip maps (prepared by NJDOT GIS mapping division) indicate
the route in terms of bicycle compatibility rating of the roadway segments -
green for compatible, according to the above mentioned Guidelines, and purple
for suitable but not fully compatible. The roadway compatibility ratings
pertain generally to main portions of roadways, intersections are not evaluated
for bicycle compatibility/suitability. Major constraints, such as bridges or
high conflict intersections, are noted as singular red spots. Bicycle
compatibility of roadways can change, such as when traffic volumes increase,
when posted speed limits are raised or when lane configurations are changed,
such as at intersections when shoulders are eliminated to provide turning
lanes. Bicycle compatibility rating analysis of a roadway does not specifically
consider pavement surface conditions, frequency of driveways, or types and
number of drainage inlet grates. However, for a roadway to be fully bicycle
compatible, a high level of pavement surface maintenance and elimination of
other surface hazards (stream flow inlet grates, unimproved rail crossings,
etc.) would be necessary. After all, bicycles as legal vehicles on roadways
deserve a standard of care and protection for the facilities to be safe, just
as other vehicles require and deserve safe travel ways.
Bicycle
compatibility presumes that the cyclists who travel the High Point to Cape May
route will be generally comfortable with riding along roadways with motor
vehicular traffic. Bicycle compatible roadways may not be appropriate for use
by young children or casual adult cyclists with little traffic cycling
experience, but a favorable (True/green) bicycle compatible rating indicates
that the roadway and/or shoulders currently provides sufficient operating space
in order for bicyclists and motor vehicles to comfortably share the roadways at
the measured traffic volumes and posted speeds.
Bicycle "suitability"
(not necessarily meeting compatibility standards - indicated as purple on the
strip maps) where roadways would require reconstruction to meet the "bicycle
compatible" standard may be enhanced through use of "Share the Road" signs,
pavement markings and other techniques. Signage and markings would serve to
beneficially warn motorists as to the possible presence of bicyclists. Such
additions would likely have a comforting affect on the more casual cyclists and
attract cyclists that otherwise might not be inclined to ride these roadways.
Application of these techniques would have to be identified in detail through
additional study of the High Point to Cape May Route. None the less, the
computer Compatibility Spreadsheets (based on the noted Table 1.) provide a
good basis for evaluating the existing conditions and can also provide a means
to test various modifications for bicycle compatibility for future roadway
modifications or speed limit changes.
County Route Maps
As
mentioned above, the ten (10) NJDOT produced Route maps provided in the
Appendix indicate the High Point to Cape May Bike Route in terms of each
roadway segment's bicycle compatibility (True or False, green or purple). Red
spots along otherwise green (compatible) roads indicate a significant
constraint to bicycle travel that would need to be addressed before formally
establishing the Route.
The maps also indicate the locations of
services and attractions that are described in the following section,
identified by icons with legend.
Next Steps
The next
phase of development will have an expanded outreach program including all of
the municipalities along the identified route. The goal will be to obtain
resolutions of support from all of these communities. With this input and
support, the route will be finalized and plans for signing installation will be
produced. Additional products of the next phase may include promotional
materials and maps to be distributed in hard copy and available on the
Internet.
III. ROUTE
DESCRIPTIONS
The following county-by-county narrative
descriptions do not describe every road, road name or mileage. For this
additional information, the reader should refer to the Spreadsheets in the
Appendix. The descriptions are from north to south. The descriptions are meant
to provide general indications as to the nature of most sections of the route
and generally describe services, attractions, bicycling constraints and
possible alternatives and opportunities for the route (such as future
rail-trails). Each county narrative is followed by a listing of the services
and attractions in each respective county. County Route numbered roads are
abbreviated with the prefix "CR. Local roads are listed as named
| 1. |
Sussex County - Approximately 36
Miles
Sussex County, the northern-most county in New Jersey is
primarily a rural area with few town centers/central business districts widely
dispersed. The major attraction of this part of the state is its relatively
undeveloped rural character with numerous state parks and wildlife management
areas. The Appalachian Trail, a major regional attraction crosses the county,
traveling past the southern flank of High Point State park. The High Point
Monument was constructed in the 1920's in honor of veterans from New Jersey. At
549.6 m (1803 feet) it is also the highest elevation of New Jersey. Two major
abandoned rail corridors in Sussex County have been converted to multi-use
trails: the Paulinskill Valley Trail and the Sussex Branch Trail. The Route
begins at the High Point Monument in the High Point State Park (see Photograph
I, and Cover). There is a large parking lot (approximate capacity 200 cars)
adjacent to the monument. This allows for a convenient meeting place for
bicyclists who wish to start their ride at this end point of the route. There
are also restrooms in the park which are open all year. The village of Port
Jervis, New York is located about three miles north of High Point (see
Photograph 2), and has a well established central business district with many
services available and offers connections into New York State. Exiting the High
Point State Park roadway, the route turns north on Route 23 for a short
distance to get to Sawmill Road (see Photograph 3), a small rural roadway
through the southern portion of the High Point State Park. There are
connections to various large and small camping sites along this section of the
route. There is a small waterfall and picnic areas along the route as well (see
Photograph 4). The route then travels along several county roadways which
generally have good signage complimenting way-finding signage that will be
provided when the final High Point to Cape May Bike Touring Route is
designated. There are a few bridges along Route 519 that are more narrow than
the typical roadway cross section. These constrictions could benefit from
"Share the Road" signage and pavement markings to alert motorists and
bicyclists that the shoulders narrow, causing them to share the travel lane
along a short segment. There are also numerous locations where there are unsafe
drainage grates which should be replaced with bicycle-safe grates before the
route is designated.
The Space Farms Zoo and Museum in Beemerville (see
Photograph 5) is located along Route 519, and is a popular family attraction.
The route passes through the Branchville central business district (see
Photograph 6), where there are the first substantial services, including deli,
food shops and gas stations with restrooms. Just south of Branchville there is
the potential for a link to the Sussex County Fair Grounds on Smith Hill Road.
The Sussex Branch Trail and Paulinskill Valley Trail, both converted rail
trails, each cross the route in this area and there is a trailhead with parking
and portable restrooms at Warbasse Junction, just east of the route alignment
which could be connected by a spur route. The Paulinskill Valley trail runs
generally east-west, while the Sussex Branch trail runs parallel to the route
and can be used as an off road option for approximately 14 miles through
southern Sussex County.
The route passes the Sussex County Community
College (see Photograph 7) and continues into the Newton central business
district. In Newton there are many stores and services, including a bicycle
shop. There is a one way couplet at the town center where Route 206 and Route
94 intersect. New Jersey DOT is currently studying improving bicycle
accommodation along this area of relatively high traffic conflicts.
The
Route continues south along Route 206, which NJDOT is currently considering
improving through Byram Township. The route passes Allamuchy State Park, which
has several camping and hiking opportunities. The Sussex Branch trail see
Photograph 8) has its southern trailhead at Waterloo Village in Byram Township,
a National Registered Historic Site with a restored historic village.
One major constraint to bicycle travel is the interchange of Route 206
and Route 183 in the southbound direction. There are two lanes that continue to
the right along Route 206, with the left lane forking to the left to continue
onto route 183. This forces bicyclists to make a two-lane merge along a high
speed segment. At a minimum, signage and striping enhancements should be
considered for this location.
Listed below are the Route roads and
nearby attractions, services and towns in Sussex County:
- Sawmill Road, CR650, CR647, CR519, NJ Route 206, CR183
Nearby attractions/services:
- High Point State Park - family camping, group camping,
group cabins and individual cabins.
- Appalachian Trail - hiking trail from Georgia to
Maine.
- Villages of Plumbsock, Beemerville, Halsey,
Springdale, Greendell, Tranquility
- Space Farms Zoo and Museum, food
- Branchville central business district
- Paulinskill Valley Trail crossing in Hampton
- Central business district of Newton (County seat)
- Whittingham Wildlife Management Area
- Sussex Branch Trail with several crossings
- Paulins Kill Valley Trail crossing in Hampton
- Allamuchy Mountain State Park/Waterloo Village -
camping at Stephens State Park
- Wild West City - shows and rides
|
| 2. |
Morris County - Approximately 19
Miles
Morris County has a great variety of land uses, from
agricultural to light industrial. There are many large residential communities
and Morris County has the highest growth rate of any county in the metropolitan
New York City area. There are also numerous historic sites around the
Morristown area such as Washington's headquarters and Jockey Hollow. Morris
County has recently completed a bicycle and pedestrian element to the County
Master Plan. "This plan identifies many preferred bicycle routes throughout the
county. The Patriots Path trail system is currently in place in the center of
the county and will be extended to reach both the eastern and western edges of
the county. This trail system links historic and recreational areas throughout
Morris County.
The Route crosses into Morris County along Route 183 in
order to avoid the Route 206 - Interstate 80 dual designation for a few miles
in Netcong. Route 183 is currently being studied by NJDOT for improvements
around the traffic circle at Route 46 (see Photograph 9). Route 183 does cross
under 1-80 and has a clover leaf style interchange, that would benefit from
enhanced signage and striping to inform motorists and bicyclists of the merging
traffic movements (see Photograph 10).
The southern Route 206 portion
of the Route is primarily rural (see Photograph II). There are several services
along Route 206, including food shops, a gas station and a mini golf course in
Flanders. The route passes though the central business districts of the Borough
of Chester (see Photograph 12) and Mendham along county roads. Each have
on-street parking and lower travel speeds that the surrounding areas. There are
numerous shops and services throughout this southern portion of Morris County.
The Patriots Path network and the Columbia Trail (rail trail) cross the
proposed route in this area, and are planned to be expanded. There is excellent
potential to link to local paths throughout southeastern Morris County.
The Black River Wildlife Management Area, the Hacklebamey State Park,
Schooleys Mountain County Park are all in close by to the route and can easily
be accessed via short spur diversions off the Route.
The Route heads
south toward Somerset County at the edge of Jockey Hollow National Historic
Park where General Washington and his Continental Army spent the remainder of
the winter of 1777 after his famous crossing of the Delaware River and
successfully waging a surprise attack on the Hessian troops in Trenton,
followed by a defeat of three British regiments at Princeton. A short spur
route will connect to the Park main entrance (see Photograph 13). Jockey Hollow
is now a major historic attraction with a visitor center, parking, and self
guided tours through the park (see Photograph 14). The park also offers access
to downtown Morristown, a major economic hub in northern New Jersey, with many
historic, shopping other attractions.
Route 206, Route 513, Route 510,
Route 646, Leddell Road - approximately 18.5 miles
Nearby
attractions/services:
- Netcong Central business district in Netcong
- Black River Wildlife Management Area
- Patriots Path existing segment connection
- Lewis Morris Park o Morristown national Historic Park
(Jockey Hollow)
- Hackelbarney State Park
- Columbia Trail - near Chester
- Schooleys Mountain County Park
|
| 3. |
Somerset County - Approximately 38
Miles
One of the major attractions for bicycling in New Jersey
is the Delaware & Raritan (D&R) Canal towpath. This unpaved, multi-use
path bisects southern Somerset County along with numerous other County parks
and preserves. There are the interstate highways 1-287 and 1-78 in central and
northern portions of the county. Crossing these highways is a major concern for
bicycle travel.
RidwWise of Raritan Valley, Transportation Management
Association (TMA) has prepared a "bicycle suitability map " entitled The Spirit
of Discovery - Bicycling In and Around Somerset County, New Jersey which
assesses many roadways throughout the county for bicycle travel. There are
significant town centers in both Somerville and Bound Brook with a spectrum of
services for bicyclists. The longest continually held bicycle race in the
United States is held in Somerville which is also the home of the U.S.
Bicycling Hall of Fame.
The route enters Somerset County along a small
local roadway across a short single lane bridge (see Photograph 15), and passes
by the New Jersey Brigade Area of the Morristown National Historic Park (see
Photograph 16). The route then passes by the Van Dorens Mill, a historic mill.
By using Finley Road across Route 287 and Dead River Road over Route
78, and Main Street across Route 287 in Bound Brook the route avoids clover
leaf interchanges at all three major interstate crossings.
Dock Watch
Hollow Road and Vossler Road offer hilly terrain and scenic vistas from the
Wachung Mountains, (the first/southern Wachung Mountain was used during the
Revolutionary War for monitoring enemy troop movements and ships in New York
Bay, especially Washington Rock). This is the last high vista scenery before
dropping down to Bound Brook and Somerville and points south.
Main
Street through Bound Brook and Somerville offers many services including
bicycle shops (see Photograph 17) and numerous restaurants. The US Bicycling
Hall of Fame is located on Main Street in Somerville, a few steps away from the
course of the country's longest continually held bicycle race - The Tour of
Somerville (Memorial Day). A short mile and a half spur connection links the
Hall of Fame to the High Point to Cape May Route.
The Route continues
south through the Borough of Manville (named after the Johns-Manville Company
which founded the Borough and supported it for decades from manufacture and
sale of industrial products.) Manville has a developed central business
district. South of Manville the route follows Arnwell Road to cross the
Millstone River and the D&R Canal (see Photograph 18). This is the northern
crossing of the D&R Canal tow path, a major statewide attraction for
bicycling, hiking, jogging, bird watching and other recreational activities.
The route runs parallel to the D&R canal tow path for approximately eight
miles between Millstone and Kingston. This provides excellent on and off road
options for traveling along the Route. An alternate loop spur to Princeton is
available from Kingston, and rejoins the Route further south in Middlesex
County (See Mercer County, below).
Listed below are the roads, spur
routes, nearby attractions/services and towns in Somerset County:
Leddell Road, Jockey Hollow Road, Hardscrabble Road, 202, Finley Road,
South Maple, Cross Road, Stonehouse Valley Rd, 512, Acken Road/Dead River,
Mountain Road, Round Top Road, Dock Watch Hollow, Wash Valley Road, Vosseller
Avenue, Main Street, 533/Findeme Avenue, 514/Amwell Road, Canal Road, Kingstown
Rockyhill Road
Nearby attractions/services:
- Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge o Bemardsville
and Basking Ridge central business districts
- Lord Sterling Park - Environmental Education Center
- Scherman-Hoffman Sanctuaries - NJ Audubon
- Somerville -food, lodging, bike shop, services
- Manville - food, services
- Bound Brook - food, services
- Parallel to D&R Canal tow path - can be used as
option or for looped connection to Princeton
- Six Mile Run - trails administered by D&R Canal
State Park
|
| 4. |
Middlesex County - Approximately 12
Miles
Middlesex County located in eastern New Jersey is one of
the more densely populated counties that the High Point to Cape May Route
travel through. Both Route I and the New Jersey Turnpike traverse Middlesex
County. Keep Middlesex Moving (KMM) TMA has produced the Bicycle Suitability
Map for Middlesex County. The County Planning Department has also prepared a
Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan which identifies and evaluates County road
bicycle routes and local bike path proposals around the County. Rutgers
University, located in New Brunswick, is a major attraction for and generator
of bicycle travel. There are numerous parks throughout the county.
The
Route passes briefly through the southwestern corner of Middlesex County. Route
I is crossed at a signalized intersection. There are several intersections that
are planned to be grade separated along Route I and if the High Point to Cape
May Route-crossing is grade separated, it will improve the bicycling
accommodation by eliminating a significant intersection and motor vehicle
conflicts. (See also Spur Route description to Princeton, Mercer County for an
alternative location of crossing Route 1.)
The route passes by the
Plainsboro Township municipal complex and travels along Plainsboro Road, the
site of an ongoing municipal traffic calming and bicycle improvement project.
The route also passes through the Cranbury central business district, which has
a historic "rural America" character.
The crossing of high speed Route
130 presents a significant obstacle to bicycle travel. This crossing presently
incorporates a pseudo "traffic circle" which is under review by NJDOT for
reconstruction. In keeping with NJDOT policy to incorporate bicycle and
pedestrian compatibility into all of its projects, this obstacle should
therefore be eliminated of significantly ameliorated as part of any
reconstruction. Ideally, a Route 130 overpass would be preferred, with bicycle
compatible roadways, striping and warning signage as appropriate.
Below
are the Route roads, and nearby attractions, services and towns in Middlesex
County:
22, CR522, CR683, CR614/Plainsboro Road, Main St/York Road, CR539
Nearby attractions/services:
- Rutgers University linked through spur route
- Mill Pond Park/Plainsboro Pond
- Cranbury - food, services
|
| 5. |
Mercer County - Approximately 10 Miles +
Optional 15 mile alternate/spur
Mercer, New Jersey's Capital
County harbors land uses from some of the highest densities in the state to
rural farm land. Mercer County is rich in history and recreational attractions
and therefore has great allure for a statewide bicycle touring route to pass
through. Mercer County is at the heart of one of the state's finest
recreational facilities, the D&R Canal State Park, which can serve an
alternative and spur portion of the High Point to Cape May bicycle touring
route.
Historic Princeton (see Photograph 20) is a distinctive
attraction to include on a tourism route. Princeton conveniently falls near the
center of the state and contains both rural and characters mostly favorable for
bicycling. Princeton is currently rewriting its Bicycle Circulation Plan which
will hopefully improve the overall cycling environment in Princeton from its
current system of sidewalk "bike routes". Cyclists may also find themselves
sharing a lane with a Princeton Bike Patrol Police Officer. An alternate loop
or spur from the main High Point to Cape May Route in Somerset County accessing
downtown Princeton is possible. This spur route would loop to the west cross
the D&R Canal into Mercer County and Princeton, south to Princeton Junction
(location of the Northeast Corridor and NJ Transit Rail lines) and rejoin with
the Route outside of Princeton Junction in Middlesex County.
The High
Point to Cape May Route enters Mercer County from Cranbury (Middlesex County)
on CR 539 (county route 539) and within one mile enters Hightstown, a somewhat
typical "rural America" town. The recently opened (Dec. 1999) Hightstown Bypass
highway should alleviate much traffic congestion from the center of town in
future years. This may serve to improve upon the current bicycle-incompatible
status entering and within Hightstown.
An attractive possibility for
planning the High Point to Cape May Route in Mercer County is future
development of the abandoned Hightstown Branch of the Conrail Penn Central
Railroad formerly know as the Union Transportation Company Railroad, an
agricultural rail line that once carried crops from the fertile farms of south
Jersey. This rail corridor parallels the High Point to Cape May Route for over
twenty miles. Its development could provide a superior system of recreational
trails far-reaching network into south Jersey, and provide an excellent
alternative to the High Point to Cape May route.
South of Hightstown, a
future spur route to the east into Monmouth County (see below) could connect
with an existing and proposed network of bike and rail-trails. From the High
Point to Cape May Route, approximately twelve miles travel on local and county
roadways provides access to Monmouth Battlefield State Park at Freehold. A
proposed pathway system will then link with the proposed Monmouth Heritage
Trail and the existing Coastal Heritage Trail. Together these two Rail Trail
facilities will provide over twenty five miles of linear recreational facility
enabling cyclists, in-line skaters, joggers and hikers the opportunity to
travel from Freehold to Sandy Hook Bay and the Gateway National Recreation
Area.
Also of note in Mercer and Monmouth Counties are plans by the NJ
Department of Parks and Forestry to create a linked greenway trail from
Washington's Crossing State Park to Princeton Battlefield and Monmouth
Battlefield State Parks. Efforts are currently underway to secure parcels that
could make this linkage possible. The exact nature of the trail (whether it may
be for hiking only or a paved or other finished surface trail facility suitable
for bicycling) is not known at this stage of planning. This pathway however,
whatever its final disposition, will cross the High Point to Cape May Route and
should be noted in future Route descriptions.
The High Point to Cape
May Route crosses the Assunpink Wildlife Management Area. A portion is located
in Mercer County to the west of the High Point to Cape May Route. The Delaware
Valley Regional Planning Commission is completing the Assunpink Greenway study
linking Mercer County Park and the D&R Canal State Park in West Windsor and
Hamilton Townships.2 The largest portion of the
Assunpink area is located in Monmouth County, to the East.
West
Windsor, East Windsor and Washington Townships are planning a Greenway along
the Bear Brook just north of the Assunpink WMA and west of the High Point to
Cape May Route. The Bear Brook Greenway may intersect with the above mentioned
Hightstown Branch of the Penn Central Railroad abandoned rail corridor
providing a local linking network that would include the High Point to Cape May
bike Route.
The terrain of Mercer County is mostly rolling to hilly.
The High Point to Cape May Route, however, steers clear of the county's
steepest hills. The alternate/spur route into Princeton (which is situated on a
hilltop) affords the most difficult climbing, particularly from the south, but
the climb is well worth the effort.
Listed below are the spur routes
and significant attractions/services and towns in Mercer County:
Nearby
attractions/services:
- Hightstown
- Food stops, deli's
- Lodging
- Spur Route to Monmouth County - Monmouth Battlefield
State Park trail system, through Freehold and then to the Monmouth Heritage and
then the Henry Hudson Trails.
Spur west on Route 27 to Princeton, then to
Washington Road (CR 571), to Princeton Junction, then CR 615 to rejoin the main
High Point to Cape May Route - distance approximately 15 miles.
Nearby
Attractions and services in and near Princeton:
- Nassau Hall at Princeton University
- Princeton University Art Museum
- Princeton Cemetery
- Historic Bainbridge House
- Drumthwacket - Governor's Mansion
- Morven - Former Governor's Mansion
- Institute for Advanced Study
- Numerous restaurants, fast food, refreshments " Nassau
Inn and other hotels in the area
- Kopps Cycles, Jay's Cycles
- Battlefield State Park
- McCarter Theater
- Bus service
- Rail Service (NJ Transit, Armtrack Northeast Corridor
line)
- Kingston - D&R Canal Towpath to Kingston
- Kingston Village, Mill House, food
Princeton Junction / Grovers Mill
Nearby
attractions/services
CR 526 to the Monmouth County Line - distance
approximately 13 miles.
Nearby attractions/services:
- Mercer County Park
- Mercer County Community College
- Spur route to Freehold and the Monmouth Heritage Trail
and the Henry Hudson Trail to Gateway National Recreation Area.
- Portion of Assunpink Wildlife Management Area
- Possible future greenway interconnections
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| 6. |
Monmouth County - Approximately 9
Miles
A shore county with the Atlantic Ocean, the High Point to
Cape May Route is proposed to pass through the rural western "panhandle" of the
county. The terrain is mostly flat, however there are a couple of short hills
as the Route dips into the Crosswicks Creek drainage area. The Conrail
(formerly Union Transportation Co. RR) rail corridor roughly parallels the High
Point to Cape May Route through Monmouth County. The road route however, passes
through the small village of Allentown (see Photograph 22). A possible spur
route to the proposed Monmouth Heritage and Henry Hudson Rail Trail facilities
would provide a significant expansion to the touring route (mentioned above),
providing access to shore attractions/services. Both facilities are nearing
their approvals to become viable rail- trail facilities.
The High Point
to Cape May Route enters Monmouth County just south of the Assunpink Wildlife
Management Area. Abutting the main portion of the Assunpink in Monmouth County
is the Borough of Roosevelt. Developed during the Depression, a unique social
experiment known as Jersey Homesteads, Roosevelt was planned as a cooperative
agricultural and industrial community for unemployed Jewish Garment workers.
Many of the original homes in their simple, yet attractive architecture and
some of the factory buildings still can be seen in this quiet community.
The village of Allentown provides some travel amenities. South of
Allentown off of county route 539 is the Historic village of Walnford and
Crosswicks Creek Park. Founded in 1734, many of Walnfords' original buildings
are preserved and programs relating to history, milling, technology, nature and
the landscape are offered for individuals and groups.
CR 526
(Allentown) and CR 539, Local Roads to the corner of Ocean County.
Nearby
attractions/services:
- Assunpink Wildlife Management Area
- Borough of Roosevelt - food
- Allentown - food
- Historic Walnford village
- lmlaystown Wildlife Management Area
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| 7. |
Ocean County - Approximately 3
miles
Ocean County hosts a major portion of New Jersey's shore.
Largely rural, the High Point to Cape May Route passes only briefly through the
north west corner of the county and through the small village of New Egypt (see
Photograph 23) before crossing into Burlington County. The village of New Egypt
provides some travel amenities. The terrain is fairly flat and roads are
variable as to bicycle compatibility, changing within short distances.
It is noteworthy that the Ocean County Comprehensive Master Plan
identifies County Route 539 as suitable for review as a bikeway route extending
from the Monmouth County border and running the length of Ocean County to
Tuckerton Borough at the southern tip of Ocean County. The Master Plan
recommends review for its future development potential either individually or
as part of County road improvements.
Several abandoned rail corridors
converging in Ocean county could provide excellent recreational and
non-motorized transportation facilities to the shore and to points to the west
in Burlington County.
Evergreen Road, Brindletown Road Nearby
attractions/services:
- New Egypt - food
- Possible future Conrail/Union Transportation
Co./Hightstown Branch Rail corridor rail trail
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| 8. |
Burlington County - Approximately 40
miles
One of the largest of New Jersey's counties, Burlington is
home to the largest portions of New Jersey's pristine pine forests (the Pine
Barrens), Wharton State Forest and Lebanon State Forest. Spanning nearly the
entire state, Burlington County is a key county in the High Point to Cape May
Bike Touring Route.
Burlington County is fairly flat and sparsely
populated. But if you like smooth shoulders and pine trees, this will be a
favorite part of the ride. Be sure to have extra water and some food when
crossing Burlington County.
Several abandoned rail corridors cross the
county and provide potentially far- reaching access to shore communities and
other destinations. A spur route can be taken west to the village of Pemberton
which recently rehabilitated its historic rail station, and in July, 1999,
Governor Christine Whitman attended the ribbon-cutting for the first section of
a potentially significant rail-trail recreational facility (that could connect
with the Union Transportation Co. RR corridor mentioned above). Three miles
west of Pemberton is the historic industrial village of Smithville.
Founded in 1776, Smithville became one of the 19'h century's great
industrial centers. Of bicycle notoriety, Smithville's namesake H.B. Smith
Company manufactured bicycles and tricycles through the 1880's. It manufactured
the successful "Star" bicycle, a high-wheeler with the smaller wheel in the
front - for greater safety. Also of note, a "Bicycle Railway" was built in
1892. It ran from nearby Mount Holly to Smithville so that employees could more
quickly travel to and from their homes to work. Traveling at a top speed of 18
miles per hour, riders could travel the distance in a matter of minutes. The
Bicycle railway was doomed however, since a second rail line was never built.
Faster riders would get stuck behind slower riders and one rider would have to
dismount when opposite-direction riders met. The Mount Holly and Smithville
Bicycle Railway Company declared bankruptcy in 1898.
Three miles from
Cookstown to the west is Wrightstown where additional services are available.
The abandoned rail corridor of the Conrail Pennsylvania Railroad / formerly
Union Transportation Company RR crosses into Burlington immediately to the
north of Cookstown and continues to Pemberton and to Mount Holly. The abandoned
Penn Central RR (Philadelphia and Long Branch) rail line to Seaside Park begins
at Pemberton. This would make an attractive rail trail facility.
The
High Point to Cape May Route enters Burlington County on a local road at the
small village of Cookstown, just north of Fort Dix military reservation.
Traveling south from Cookstown through Ft. Dix, we enter Browns Mills where
there are numerous services. In Browns Mills, there is a "Bike Route - on walk"
on the south/west-bound side of CR 530 for approximately two blocks. It is
encumbered with driveways and a road crossing and the roadway is bicycle
compatible so there is no compelling need to use this walkway "bike route".
Leaving Browns Mills the High Point to Cape May Route passes Buttonwood
Hospital and turns south onto CR 646 at the Hospital's large, conspicuous water
tower. The remaining portion of the Route through Burlington County follows the
long-standing High Point to Cape May bike Route identified in the 1981 NJ State
Trails Plan.
At Four Mile Circle, cyclists may find some difficulty in
negotiating the circle to cross State Highway 70. The circle roadways are wide
and visibility is good, however extra cautionary measures would have to be
employed to guide cyclists through the circle (passing two incoming/exiting
roads south-bound and one, north-bound) and alert motorists as to the possible
presence of cyclists in the circle and to exercise caution. Again, these
measures would be the subject of further study and recommendations.
Continuing on State Highway 72 (see Photograph 24), the Route passes a
few food establishments and Lebanon State Forest in which is located the
Whitesbog Historic Village. The Forest Park Office, Lebanon Lakes and Camping
are available in the forest before turning south onto CR 543. This portion of
the Route begins nearly 20 miles of mostly remote cycling and few services.
Food service and a private campground is available in Chatsworth at about 4
miles on CR 543. At 13 miles we enter the Wharton State Forest. Camping and
lodging is available in Jenkins as well as canoe rental service just inside
after entering the forest. The Blueberry and Cranberry Research Station is also
located in Jenkins. A Mountain biking trail is identified along Batsto -
Washington - Jenkins Road toward Batsto Village. The Batona Trail for hiking,
crosses CR 543 just south of Jenkins.
At Green Bank, the southern most
village in Burlington County, spur routes both east and west can be taken to
various attractions and amenities. To the west 4 miles, Historic Batsto Village
is an educational attraction and group camping is available there. The Batona
Trail (for hiking only) begins at Batsto Village. To the east of Green bank
approximately 13 miles, Bass River State Forest has Camping.
CR 667, CR
530, CR 646 Nearby attractions/services:
- Cookstown - food - Diner
- Browns Mills - lodging/motel, food - restaurants,
supermarkets
- Fort Dix Military reservation
- Camping at Wharton State Forest - Batsto
- Historic Batsto Village
Rte. 72, CR 646, CR 563, CR 542 to the Atlantic
County Line
Nearby attractions/services:
- Lebanon State Forest, Camping
- Wharton State Forest o Chatsworth - Food stop
- Blueberry/Cranberry Research Center
- Spur route to Bass River State Forest, Camping
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| 9. |
Atlantic County - Approximately 27
miles
Atlantic County borders on its namesake ocean to the east.
It is largely rural in nature with farms and wetlands, and contains a sizeable
portion of the Wharton State Forest at its northern corner. Atlantic City is on
the ocean front and the Atlantic City Racetrack is located nearer the center of
the County. The terrain is flat to slight grade changes.
Crossing the
Mullica River into Atlantic County at the Green Bank State Forest on CR 563 is
almost a journey back in time. The narrow causeway and bridge is flanked by
water and waves of tall reeds. As in Burlington County, the Route follows roads
identified as part of a state-wide bike route since the early 1980's. This
route is also identified in the current Atlantic County Parks & Recreation
Guide distributed by the Atlantic County Division of Parks & Recreation.
Within 6 miles of crossing into Atlantic County we enter Egg Harbor
City (see Photograph 25) which provides several types of services. The Main
Street in Egg Harbor utilizes diagonal parking on both sides of the street.
There is no established criteria for bicycle compatibility in the presence of
diagonal parking as it is generally not viewed as bicycle-friendly. However,
the single lane in each direction is 16 ft wide to the end of the parking
stripes, which should provide sufficient space in which to stripe a bike lane
and retain sufficient motor vehicle lane width. Details of this bike lane
design would be determined in subsequent study.
NJ Transit provides
rail service from Philadelphia to Atlantic City with a stop in Egg Harbor City.
Through PATCO, the High Point to Cape May Route at Egg Harbor City can be
accessed from the Conrail/Northeast Corridor rail line. An abandoned rail line
also parallels the Southern RR of NJ/NJ Transit Atlantic City Line and although
not directly linked, it nearly meets the abandoned Pennsylvania RR Seashore
Line outside of Atlantic City, also described below.
Egg Harbor City is
home to the Renault Winery, which could provide a tasty end- of-day stop for
cyclists traveling the High Point to Cape May Route.
South of Egg
Harbor on State Highway 50, the Route crosses the Atlantic City Expressway.
Access ramps could present some difficulty to cyclists. Signage and possible
pavement markings could help guide cyclists and alert motorists to the presence
of cyclists. Similarly, access ramps for State Highway 322 - Black Horse Pike
may present some difficulty to cyclists and could use signage and markings to
help this situation.
To the west of this section of the High Point to
Cape May Route is the Makepeace Wildlife Management Area. To the east is the
Atlantic City Racetrack. The racetrack, presumably is part of the reason for
the access ramps onto State Highway 50.
Historic Mays Landing provides
a food and other services as well as the Balic Winery. The abandoned rail
corridor of the Pennsylvania RR Seashore Line passes through Mays Landing,
crossing Atlantic County from within Gloucester County to nearly reaching
Atlantic City.
Leaving Mays Landing, there are no services until
passing out of Atlantic County. Estell Manor County Park has a nature center
and provides boat rentals. Estellville was once home to the Estelleville glass
works. The historic Estellville M.E. Church (see Photograph 26), built in 1834
and cemetery, provide insights into the areas rich past. A short distance west
of Estellville is Maple Lake Wildlife Management Area.
Traveling south
from Estellevile, the High Point to Cape May Route passes between Gibson Creek
and Tuckahoe Wildlife Management Areas before crossing into Cape May County.
CR 563, State Highway 50, CR 557
Nearby attractions/services:
- Egg Harbor City - food, Renault Winery, rail transit
service
- Atlantic City Racetrack
- Makepeace Wildlife Management Area
- Mays Landing - food service, Balic Winery
- Great Egg Harbor River
- Estelle Manor County Park, nature center, boat rental,
camping at Lake Lenape
- Maple Lake Wildlife Management Area
- Tuckahoe Wildlife Management Area
- Gibson Creek Wildlife Management Area
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| 10. |
Cape May County - Approximately 50
miles
The destination. Cape May County has more attractions than
any other county in the southern half of the Route. Rural Cape May County has
considerable numbers of wildlife management areas, wildlife refuges, bays and
estuaries where natural ecosystems thrive. Identified as the most important
east coast bird migration stopover. Cape May County open spaces can be a
significant attraction for low- impact non-motorized access. The Atlantic Ocean
barrier island and shore communities provide significant year-round
recreational and vacation opportunities for tourism.
Cape May County
has very little elevation change. The highest climb is the bikeway/bridge
crossing over the Cape May Canal (possibly as high as 100 feet). Except for the
mostly constant breeze if you happen to be heading into the wind, cycling is
fairly easy throughout the county.
The abandoned Pennsylvania RR Shore
Lines, Millville Branch, West Jersey & Seashore Railroad Company
(Manamuskin to Cape May) and numerous spur lines to the barrier island is a
noteworthy feature. At a length of over 30 miles, its development into a
continuous recreational rail trail would be a premier facility for bicyclists,
pedestrians and other recreational users and an overall attraction for
Cumberland and Cape May Counties. Developed, it could serve as an attractive
alternative-for the High Point to Cape May Route. In addition, there are
several connecting abandoned rail corridor spurs that could provide bike/ped
access to many shore communities and attractions. During the height of the
tourist and bicycling season, such a facility would be a welcomed alternative
to the roadways, even though they may be bicycle compatible. To date, only two
short sections have been developed; Approximately 1.75 miles in Woodbine and
approximately 3.5 miles in Lower Township. Additional sections are planned to
be developed in the near future. West from Woodbine, the trail will enter into
Belleplain State Forest where camping, showers, laundry, swimming and other
facilities are available. Beyond Belleplain SF, the trail will enter Cumberland
County near the historic village of Mauricetown and the city of Millville.
Cumberland County contains a significant section of the Coastal Heritage Trail.
The High Point to Cape May Route crosses the Tuckahoe River enters Cape
May County at Tuckahoe. To the east is Lake Tuckahoe, within the Tuckahoe
Wildlife Management Area. To the west is the Peaslee Wildlife Management Area.
Traveling south of CR 557, the Route encounters a narrow bridge/culvert
crossing on an otherwise fully bicycle-compatible roadway with shoulder. The
shoulder is eliminated at this crossing.
The High Point to Cape May
Route then enters Woodbine and turns eastward to avoid the higher traffic
downtown streets. Several parallel alternatives are available at this turn. CR
550, Dehirsch Avenue, or a paved bikeway in a park/median between these two
roadways. Both roadways are bicycle compatible. Accessing the bikeway
southbound from CR 557 might be difficult using a vehicular-style turn as it is
a "short mid-block" crossing and there is no signage or striping indicating a
bikeway crossing. The bikeway is built within the above noted corridor of the
abandoned Pennsylvania-Reading Seashore Lines, Millville Branch, West Jersey
& Seashore Railroad Company, and is also interrupted by several cross
streets. Just east of Woodbine is the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge.
Traveling south from Woodbine on CR 660 & 638, we enter the hamlet
of Dennisville, home to the Schoolhouse museum. Joining state highway 47 for a
short distance, before reaching South Dennis, the shoulder is interrupted at a
bridge crossing the Dennis Creek. To the west is the Dennis Creek Wildlife
Management Area.
Branching east onto CR 657, the High Point to Cape May
Route passes the Beaver Swamp Wildlife Management Area. A diagonal rail
crossing of a single-track Conrail freight line (see Photograph 27) creates a
difficult and dangerous constraint to bicycling. Fortunately, there is slight
pavement widening or "bulb-outs" but the surfaces and track crossing is very
rough. Reconstruction of this crossing would be in order before the High Point
to Cape May Route were to be instituted.
A private campground is
located a short distance to the east on Swainton Road/CR 646.
The Cape
May Zoo is located along CR 657 just before entering historic Cape May
Courthouse (see Photograph 28). Food and other services such as NJ Transit bus
service and the Burdette Tomlin Memorial Hospital are available in the County
Seat of Cape May Court House.
Turning west, the Route joins State
Highway 47 and follows it south. Two private campgrounds are located along this
stretch of highway. A narrow bridge which eliminates the shoulder at Nummytown
constrains the bicycle compatibility of the otherwise suitable shoulder of
Highway 47.
Proceeding south on CR 626, we pass another private
campground and parallel the abandoned rail line which is in the process of
being developed into the "Cold Spring Bike Path".
To the west, on state
highway 9 is the US Coast Guard Life Boat Station and the Cape May-Lews
(Delaware) Ferry terminal.
Just past the historic village of Cold
Spring, the bridge over the Cape May Canal has its shoulders designated as bike
lanes with signs and pavement markings (see Photograph 29). This bike lane
continues on both sides of CR 626 for approximately 2 miles. The bike
lanes/shoulders end just north of an abandoned railroad crossing, entering into
the business section of West Cape May (see Photograph 30). Numerous services
are located along the Route and on side streets.
At the intersection
with CR 606, the High Point to Cape May Route turns west onto Sunset Boulevard.
At this point we are less than _ mile from the ocean shore but 3 miles to Cape
May Point. Lined with areas of tall marsh reeds and some residences, the near
constant wind can either be a help or a hindrance, depending on your direction
of travel (see Photograph 31).
The last turn south brings us to the
Cape May Point State Park (see Photograph 32) and the historic Cape May
Lighthouse.
Rte. 50, CR 557, CR 660, CR 638, Rte. 47, CR 657, Rte. 9,
CR 612, CR 643, Rte. 47, CR 626, CR 606, CR 629
Nearby attractions:
- Belleplain State Forest
- Millville - Cumberland County
- Peaselee Creek Wildlife Management Area
- Tuckahoe - food stop
- Tuckahoe Wildlife Management Area
- Abandoned Pennsylvania RR Shore Lines Miliville Branch
(Manamuskin to Cape May)
- Abandoned rail corridor spurs off of the Miliville
Branch
- Sea Isle Branch & the Wildwood and Delaware branch
- The Wildwoods
- Cape May Courthouse - food, historic
- Cape May National Wildlife Refuge
- Dennis Creek Wildlife Management Area
- Dennisville - Schoolhouse museum
- Beaver Swamp Wildlife Management Area
- Numerous Private Campgrounds
- US Coast Guard Installations (3)
- Cape May - Lewis Ferry
- Cape May / West Cape May - Food, lodging, bike shops
- Cape May Lighthouse
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