VAI worked with the Chehalem Park and Recreation District (CPRD) to develop a 70+ mile trail system. VAI was the project manager for the Strategice Plan and is currently leading the development of the Phase I Master Plan. The trail system will link parks, historical sites, schools, libraries and other public venues; the Willamette River; and regional trails in the Newberg-Dundee area.

The Strategic Plan developed by VAI and CPRD identified the most practical alignments for the 70-mile network. Using geographic system information system (GIS) analysis, VAI assessed land use, parcel size, topography, floodplains, and other factors to inform the strategic plan. VAI also identified problem areas such as unsafe and/or expensive road and stream crossings, trail access associated with the proposed Highway 99 bypass, and connection to existing trail infrastructure. During the strategic planning process, VAI led public involvement efforts, including opens houses and a design charette, to define the project goals and objectives and to identify points of interest. The GIS analysis and local resident input were used to create a conceptual plan during the design charette and form the basis for the Strategic Plan.

As part of the strategic planning process, VAI developed multiple trail typologies that met the needs of CPRD, Newberg and Dundee, and local residents. Trail typologies included multi-use off-road trails, bike lanes, and designated bike boulevards on low-traffic streets. The Strategic Plan also identified 15 phases to complete the project and included preliminary construction cost estimates to assist CPRD in developing the trail system.

Following the development of the Strategic plan, VAI was asked to develop the Phase 1 Master Plan, a 16 mile section. Draft trail alignments and profiles, including alternative alignments, were developed and used during the process of landowner outreach. Field work was conducted to assess factors such as safety of proposed alignments, to ensure that adequate right-of-way was available for both off-road and shared roadway segments, and that trail alignments were appropriate for areas with challenging topography. VAI also addressed access through park land, identifying enhancements to existing trails and the addition of new trails where appropriate. Tail alignments in the Phase 1 Master plan were verified with thorough topographic analysis and cross-sections.

During the Phase 1 Master Plan, VAI led additional public meetings to communicate draft and final trail alignments. VAI also prepared more comprehensive cost estimates from the master plan, which assisted CPRD in generating funds for the construction of this initial phase.