Undergraduate Abstract

Sonya E. Wilson
May 1995

Trail Development at the Whitney Mesa Nature Preserve: American with Disabilities Act- Guidelines & Interpretations

A Thesis submitted in partial satisfaction
of the requirement for the degree of

BACHELOR OF ARTS

In

Environmental Studies Program
University of Nevada Las Vegas

by

Sonya E. Wilson

Spring 1995

Thesis Adviser: Dennis L. Soden, Professor
Environmental Studies Program
University of Nevada Las Vegas

Abstract

An assessment of trails proposed in the Whitney Mesa Nature Preserve Long-Range Development Plan was conducted. The purpose was to look at suitability for short-term development and for making trails accessible to individuals with disabilities. Research o f this report outlined spatial and location requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) specific to an outdoor facility. Field, digital and map data was collectively used with ARC/INFO Geographic Information Sys tem (GIS) software. Analysis produced information on trails and was the basis for trail development recommendations. Accessibility was determined at a moderate level, as defined by the guidelines, and is consistent with the purpose of the proposed facility. Related criteria and information pertaining to providing access were based on this.