Assateague Island National Seashore: Alternative Transportation Systems Planning Study and Business Plan for Alternative Transportation

The purpose of this study was to (1) study the potential expansion of existing alternative transportation systems (bicycle facilities) and development of new alternative transportation systems in and around the Maryland District of Assateague Island National Seashore and (2) develop a business plan for implementation of a new alternative transportation system (transit). The park experiences congestion and parking capacity issues from its beach visitation, as well as challenges around signage, over-sand vehicle zone access, and bicycle and pedestrian access. Assateague Island also faces challenges as a barrier island and is likely to experience an increasingly dynamic land base on the island as a result of storms, natural shoreline processes, and sea level rise and other climate change effects. These changes raise questions about cost, sustainability, and access. The study consists of an assessment of current and future conditions and needs as they relate to transportation within and to the Maryland District of Assateague Island NS. including a transit feasibility assessment.\n