Designation Application

Submitted to: Florida Department of Transportation District Three Scenic Highways Coordinator P.O. Box 607 Chipley, FL 32428 850.638.0250

Submitted by: Franklin County Corridor Advocacy Group Dixie Partington, Chairperson 52 7th Street Apalachicola, FL 32320 850.653.9646

Wakulla County Corridor Advocacy Group Bonnie Holub, Chairperson c/o Wakulla County Tourist Development Council P.O. Box 67 Panacea, FL 32346 850.984.3966

Prepared by: Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. Suite 100 1820 East Park Avenue Tallahassee, FL 32301 850.309.0035

September 2006 Acknowledgements

The process of designating a Florida Scenic Highway relies on the volunteer efforts of local citizens, community leaders, businesses, and non-profit organizations working closely with land-management agencies, local governments, consultants, and the Florida Department of Transportation. The members of the Franklin County and Wakulla County Corridor Advocacy Groups (CAG) have made an exemplary devotion of time and effort to this process. Other individuals, agencies, and businesses deserving recognition for their participation, encouragement, guidance, and financial contributions in the joint effort to make the Big Bend Scenic Byway a reality include:

Financial Support Florida Department of Transportation

FDOT District Three Scenic Highway Coordinator Laura Haddock

Grassroots Support Franklin County CAG Wakulla County CAG

Photography Diane G. Delaney Wakulla County Tourist Development Council Apalachicola Chamber of Commerce

Eligibility Application Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. Big Bend Scenic Byway Map Universal and Resource-Specific Criteria

Universal Criterion #1: Visible Resources ...... 55 The resource(s) must be visible from the roadway.

Universal Criterion #2: Tells a Story ...... 56 The corridor must “tell a story” that relates to its intrinsic resources.

Universal Criterion #3: Public Roadway ...... 58 The roadway must be a public road that safely accommodates two-wheel drive motor vehicles.

Universal Criterion #4: Corridor Features ...... 61 The roadway must exhibit significant, exceptional, and distinctive features of the region it traverses.

Universal Criterion #5: Roadway Length ...... 70 The roadway generally should be more than one mile in length and, if appropriate, provide access to the resource(s).

Universal Criterion #6: Qualifying Resources ...... 71 The majority of the corridor must exhibit scenic or heritage qualifying resource(s). These resources must be as continuous as possible throughout the corridor. Universal and Resource-Specific Criteria

Universal Criterion #7: Organized CAG ...... 93 A Corridor Advocacy Group (CAG) must be organized to support the scenic highway designation.

Universal Criterion #8: Community Participation ...... 94 A Community Participation Program must be developed and implemented.

Universal Criterion #9: Local Support ...... 94 Strong local support must be demonstrated.

Universal Criterion #10: Corridor Management Plan ...... 94 A Corridor Management Plan (CMP) must be developed with the endorsement of local government(s) and a Corridor Management Entity (CME) created.

The foundation of the Florida Scenic Highways Program lies in the preservation and protection of the State’s outstanding resources. These ten criteria are basic elements of a Florida Scenic Highway. A brief description and reference to the page of specific criteria in the Designation Application are included in this list. Table of Contents

List of Tables and Figures i

Secretary Signature Page iii

Designation Application Form iv

Franklin/Wakulla CAG Members vi

SHAC Comments and Responses xi

Executive Summary of the Action Plan xv

1. Introduction 1

2. Background Conditions Analysis 5

3. Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria 54

4. Corridor Vision 103

5. Goals, Objectives and Strategies 107

6. Corridor Story 117

7. Corridor Management Entity 121

8. Community Participation Program 125

9. Local Support 131

10. Protection Techniques 137

11. Funding and Promotion 153

12. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan 159

13. Partnerships and Agreements 169

14. Action Plan 173 Table of Contents

Appendices

A. FDOT Authorization Letter

B. SHAC Eligibility Application Comments

C. Wakulla FLUM

D. Franklin FLUM

E. Billboard Inventory

F. Complete Intrinsic Resource List by County

G. Intrinsic Resource Visibility Inventory

H. Combined Initial Goals and Preliminary Action Plans

I. CME Agreement and Bylaws

J. CME Meeting Materials

K. Community Participation Program

L. Local Support

M. Potential Sources of Grant Funding

N. Sample Partnership Agreement

O. Stakeholder Matrix

List of Tables and Figures

Tables 3.14 Forest Trail Central Figures 1.1 Route Description 3.15 Forest Trail West 1.1 Franklin County 2.1 Background Support for CMP 10.1 Apalachicola National Forest Plan 2.1 Corridor Limits 2.2 Corridor Limits 10.2 National Wildlife Refuge 2.2 Sample Urban Corridor Limits 2.3 Functional Classification Management Plans 2.3 Sample Rural Corridor Limits 2.4 Summary of Right-of-Way Widths 10.3 National Estuarine Research 2.4 Corridor Segments 2.5 Corridor Utility Contacts Reserve System Plans 2.5 Billboard Locations 2.6 Existing Land Uses 10.4 FWC State Wildlife Area Plans 2.6 Traffic Volumes 2.7 Franklin County Zoning Districts 10.5 DEP State Park Protection 2.7 Level of Service 2.8 Wakulla County Zoning Districts 10.6 State Forest Management Plans 2.8 Trail Network 2.9 Existing Zoning Designations 10.7 OGT Recreational Trails 3.1 Resource Visibility 2.10 Franklin County Crash Data 10.8 National Register of Historic Places 3.2 Corridor Segments 2.11 Wakulla County Crash Data 10.9 Florida Historical Marker Program 3.3 Resource Accessibility 2.12 Franklin County Traffic Volumes 10.10 Additional Protection Techniques 3.4 Qualifying Resources and Level of Service 11.1 Existing Funding Sources 3.5 Coastal Trail East 2.13 Wakulla County Traffic Volumes 12.1 Potential Comp Plan Elements for 3.6 Coastal Trail Central and Level of Service Inclusion of the Byway Vision and Goals 3.7 Coastal Trail West 2.14 Franklin County Level of Service 3.8 Forest Trail East Standards 12.2 Comp Plan Adoption Date and Scheduled EAR Completion Date 3.9 Forest Trail Central 2.15 Wakulla County Level of Service 3.10 Forest Trail West Standards 14.1 Transportation Planning/Safety 2.16 FDOT 5-Year Work Program 14.2 Land Use/Zoning and Utilities 2.17 U.S. Census Population Summary 14.3 Landscaping/Beautification and 3.1 Universal Criterion #1 Public Access 3.2 Universal Criterion #2 14.4 Trail Development and Tourism/Recreation Facilities 3.3 Universal Criterion #3 14.5 Historical/Cultural Preservation 3.4 Universal Criterion #4 14.6 Interpretation/Signage 3.5 Resource Accessibility 14.7 Promotion 3.6 Universal Criterion #5 14.8 Economic Development 3.7 Universal Criterion #6 14.9 Administration and Coordination 3.8 Universal Criterion #7 14.10 Responsible Parties 3.9 Natural Community Assessment 14.11 Potential Funding Sources 3.10 Coastal Trail East 3.11 Coastal Trail Central 3.12 Coastal Trail West 3.13 Forest Trail East

i

Secretary Signature Page

As Secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation, the signature below indicates the approval and endorsement of this Corridor Management Plan and this corridor for designation as a Florida Scenic Highway. FDOT approval of this management plan represents our agreement to serve in a partnership with the Corridor Management Entity to preserve, enhance, and maintain the designated scenic highway corridor. We recognize the grass roots initiative and strong local support for this corridor demonstrated by the communities involved in the preparation of this management plan. This corridor management plan acknowledges that the designated corridor will be subject to the requirements of the Section 1046(c) of the ISTEA which added a new subsection(s) to 23 USC 131 precluding outdoor advertising on designated scenic highways, and the requirements of the Uniform Relocation Act. I hereby designate this corridor as a Florida Scenic Highway.

______, Date:______

Denver Stutler, Jr., P.E. Secretary, Florida Department of Transportation

iii

Big Bend Scenic Byway CAG Members

Don & Pam Ashley David Butler Sandy A. Cook Ashley Associates, Inc. Vice President, Gulf State Community Bank Florida Department of Environmental P.O. Box 430, Sopchoppy, FL 32358 Drawer GG, P.O. Box 361, Carrabelle, FL 32322 Protection, Division of Recreation & Parks 850/893-6869, 850/893-9376 (F) 850/697-3395, 850/697-3183 (H) Manager, Wakulla Springs State Park [email protected] [email protected] 550 Wakulla Park Dr., Wakulla Springs, FL 32327 James F. Burnett, Jr. Patsy Byrd 850/224-5950, 850/561-7282 (F) U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Member, Panacea Waterfronts Partnership [email protected] Refuge Manager, St. Marks National Wildlife P.O. Box 884, Panacea, FL 32346 Refuge 850/984-5733 Toni Courtier P.O. Box 68, St. Marks, FL 32355 North State Title, Inc. 850/925-6121 Capt. Jody Campbell P.O. Box 127, Panacea, FL 32346 [email protected] Member, Wakulla County TDC 850/926-5211 34 Connie Drive, Shell Point, Crawfordville, FL [email protected] Curt Blair 32327 Apalachee Land Conservancy 850/926-1173 Capt. Vic Davis P.O. Box 729, Apalachicola, FL 32329 [email protected] Board Member, Florida Foresight 850/653-4021 14 Stratton Lane, Crawfordville, FL 32327 Madeleine Carr 850/925-6660 Billy Boothe Friends of Wakulla Springs [email protected] The Photo Naturalist 223 Iroquois Rd., Crawfordville, FL 32327 P.O. Box 715, Bristol, FL 32321 850/926-3126 Michael W. Delaney 850/643-2583 [email protected] Board Member, Florida Foresight [email protected] 23 Knotty Pine St., Panacea, FL 32346 Gene Charbonneau, M.D. 850/984-4980 Cathleen M. Briggs Chair, Panacea Waterfronts Florida Partnership [email protected] USDA Forest Service Director, Wakulla Medical Center Recreation Manager, Apalachicola National 1328 Coastal Highway Bonnie Dietz Forest P.O. 959, Panacea, FL 32346-0959 President, Lanark Village Association 57 Taff Drive, Crawfordville, FL 32327 850/984-4735, 850/984-4742 (F) P.O. Box 434 850/926-3561, 850/926-1904 (F) [email protected] Lanark Village, FL 32323 [email protected] 850/697-2852 Gibby Conrad Beth Brinkley Apalachicola Eco-Tours Jerry S. Evans Proprietor, Resort Vacation Properties, Inc. P.O. Box 578 Director, Marketing & Sales 125 West Gulf Beach Dr. Apalachicola 32329 The Inn at Wildwood St. George Island, FL 32328 850/653-2593 3896 Coastal Highway, Crawfordville, FL 850/927-2322, X132 [email protected] 32327 [email protected] 850/926-4455 fx.850/926-6955 [email protected] vi Big Bend Scenic Byway CAG Members

Allen Freeland Ace Haddock Dr. John W. Hitron Director, Wakulla County Economic Florida Department of Agriculture & Associate Director, FSU Marine Laboratory Development Council Community Services, Division of Forestry 3618 Highway 98, St. Teresa, FL 32358-2702 Vice President, St. Marks Powder Co. Operations Administrator, Tate’s Hell State 850/697-4095 (O) 850/697-3822 (F) P.O. Box 222 Forest [email protected] St. Marks, FL 32355 865 Geddie Road, Tallahassee, FL 32307 850/577-2030 850/697-3734, X 104 Allen Hobbs [email protected] [email protected] Mayor, City of St. Marks P.O. Box 275 Skip Frink Jerry Hall St. Marks, FL 32355 Carrabelle Area Chamber of Commerce Owner/Chef, Apalachicola Seafood Grill 850/925-6226 201 Tallahassee St. 100 Market Street P.O. Box 75 Apalachicola, FL 32320 Tom W. Hoffer Carrabelle, FL 32322 850/653-8805 Publisher, Franklin Chronicle 850/697-9010 [email protected] P.O. Box 590 [email protected] St. George Island, FL 32328 Walt and Eunice Hartmann 850/670-1685, 850/927-2186 Dan Garlick St. George Island Association President, Garlick Environmental Associates, 1181 W Gulf Beach Dr. Bonnie Holub Inc. St. George Island, FL 32328 Co-Chair, Big Bend Scenic Byway CAG P.O. Box 385 850/927-2663 Director, Wakulla County Tourist Development Apalachicola, FL 32329-0385 [email protected] Council 850/653-8899 P.O. Box 67, Panacea, FL 32346 [email protected] Tim Harbison 850/984-2966, 850/984-2967 (F) Ochlockonee Bay Airport Association [email protected] Betty Green 2355 Surf Road President, Wakulla County Historical Society Panacea, FL 32346 Dorothy C. Holub P.O. Box 151 850/984-5832 Volunteer Coordinator, Wakulla Welcome Crawfordville, FL 32326 [email protected] Center 850/926-7405 P. O. Box 727 Shanon Harvey Panacea, Fl 32346 Anita Grove USDA Forest Service 850/984-5887 Executive Director, Apalachicola Bay Chamber Landscape Architect, Apalachicola National of Commerce Forest Marj Jacques 99 Market Street 57 Taff Drive, Crawfordville, FL 32327 Keep Wakulla County Beautiful Apalachicola, FL 32320 850/926-3561, 850/926-1904 (F) P.O. Box 700, Crawfordville, FL 32326 850/653-9419 [email protected] 926-0830, 926-0896 (F) [email protected] [email protected]

vii Big Bend Scenic Byway CAG Members

Paul G. Johnson Rosalyn F. Kilcollins Jimmy Lewis Secretary, Wakulla County Chamber of Coastal Training Program Coordinator 1172 West Gulf Beach Drive Commerce Apalachicola National Estuarine Research St. George Island, FL 32328 537 Hickory Wood Drive Reserve 850/927-4792 Crawfordville, FL 32327 261 7th Street, Apalachicola, FL 32320 [email protected] 850/926-7439, 850/926-4755 (F) 850/653-8063 [email protected] Helen Livingston L. Katie Kuehn 21 Saint James St., Panacea, FL 32346 Kevin Jones Owner/Broker, Sandy Beach Properties, Inc. 850/984-2299 Florida Department of Environmental 311 N.E. Avenue C [email protected] Protection, Division of Recreation & Parks Carrabelle, FL 32322 Park Manager, Julian Bruce State Park 850/697-5300 William Lowrie 1900 East Gulf Drive [email protected] Executive Director, Florida Foresight St. George Island, FL 32328 P.O. Box 55, Sopchoppy, FL 32358 850/927-2111 Jackie Lawhon 850/962-4138 (H) [email protected] Municipal Clerk, City of Sopchoppy [email protected] P.O. Box 74 Tim Jordan Sopchoppy, FL 32358 Nelson Martin Owner/Broker, Ochlockonee Bay Realty, Inc. 850/962-2794, 850/962-4611 (F) Sopchoppy Outfitters P.O. Box 556 [email protected] 60 Lizard Lane, Sopchoppy, FL 32358 Panacea, FL 32346 850/962-2200 850/984-0001, 850/984-4748 (F) Maxie Lawhon [email protected] [email protected] Chair, Wakulla County Board of County Commissioners Roger Martin Saundra Kelley P.O. Box 1263, Crawfordville, FL 32326 Apalachicola Bay & River Keeper, Inc. P.O. Box 285, Panacea, FL 32346 850/962-3681, 850/926-2071 (F) 29 Island Drive, Suite 8 22 Mardi Gras Way [email protected] P.O. Box 484, Eastpoint, FL 32328 Alligator Point, FL 850/670-5470 850/349-2199 Patrick Lemons [email protected] Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Debbie Kent Commission Nelle McCall and Rick Ott Crooked River Lighthouse Association Recreation Coordinator, Tate’s Hell State Forest Proprietors, From the Heart 2820 Highway 98 East, Carrabelle, FL 32322 Farris Bryant Building, 620 S. Meridian St. P.O. Box 399 850/697-9062 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600 Sopchoppy, FL 32358 [email protected] 850/488-4676 850/962-5282 [email protected] [email protected]

viii Big Bend Scenic Byway CAG Members

Michael E. Millender Terry Peacock Robert Seidler Proprietor, Island View Seafood, Inc. U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Seidler Productions 326 Patton Drive, Deputy Manager, St. Marks National Wildlife 191 Pine Lane, Eastpoint, FL 32328 Refuge Crawfordville, FL 32327 850/670-8555 P.O. Box 68, St. Marks, FL 32355 850/925-6331 850/925-6121, 850/925-6930 (F) [email protected] Sherrie Miller [email protected] Proprietor, Posey’s Up-the-Creek Restaurant Charles Shields 36 Elberta Ct., Panacea, FL 32346 Alan Pierce Proprietor, Shields Marina, Inc. 850/984-5799, 984-5243 (O) Planning Director, Franklin County 97 Riverside Drive [email protected] 34 Forbes St., Ste. 1, Apalachicola, Fl 32320 St. Marks, FL 32355 850/653-9783, X161 850/925-6158 Linda Minichiello [email protected] Museum Curator, Camp Gordon Johnston Colleen Skipper Association Lori Ann Pollgreen Commissioner, City of Sopchoppy P.O. Box 1334, Carrabelle, FL 32322 Member, Panacea Waterfronts Florida P.O. Box 1219 850/697-8575 Partnership Sopchoppy, FL 32358 [email protected] 14 Stratton Lane, Crawfordville, FL 32327 850/962-4611 850/925-0582 Laura Moody [email protected] William Spohrer Apalachicola Area Historical Association Coombs Inn P.O. Box 75, Apalachicola, FL 32329 Pam Portwood 127 Avenue B 653-9851 Director, Wakulla County Grants Department Apalachicola, FL 32320 [email protected] P.O. Box 309, Crawfordville, FL 32326 850/653-4321 850/926-0909, 850/926-0941 (F) [email protected] Dixie Partington [email protected] Co-Chair, Big Bend Scenic Byway CAG Robert Teel The Dixie Theatre Callie Quigg ERA Community Realty, Inc. 52 7th Street, Apalachicola, FL 32320 Sopchoppy School 1517 Crawfordville Highway 850/653-9646 60 Mathers Farm Road Crawfordville, FL 32327 [email protected] , Crawfordville, FL 32327 [email protected] [email protected] 850/926-7373 Ron & Linda Thompson Diane Patchell Barbara Revell P.O. Box 96 377 Mashes Sands Rd., Panacea, FL 32346 Crooked River Lighthouse Association Panacea, FL 32346 850/570-8111 2820 Highway 98 East, Carrabelle, FL 32322 850/984-5253 [email protected] 850/697-2054 [email protected]

ix Big Bend Scenic BywayCAG Members

Tony Tindell Kenneth Weber Kay Williamson Florida Department of Environmental Florida Department of Agriculture & Proprietor, Harbor House Restaurant Protection, Division of Recreation & Parks Community Services, Division of Forestry P.O. Box 1057 Assistant Park Manager, Julian Bruce State Manager, Tate’s Hell State Forest Panacea, FL 32346 Park 865 Geddie Road, Tallahassee 32304 850/984-2758 1900 East Gulf Beach Drive, St. George Island, 850/414-1137, Carrabelle Office FL 32328 850/697-3734 x 100 Mary Wolfgang 850/927-2111 [email protected] Director, Wakulla Service Center [email protected] Tallahassee Community College Ron Weiss 444 Appleyard Dr. Linda Trice Florida Department of Environmental Tallahassee, FL 32304 Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Recreation & Parks 850/201-6102, 850/922-6290 (F) Protection, Division of Recreation & Parks Manager, Wakulla Springs Lodge [email protected] Ranger, Ochlockonee Bay State Park 550 Wakulla Park Dr., Wakulla Springs, FL P.O. Box 5, Sopchoppy, FL 32358 32305 Norma J. Woodcock 850/962-2771, 850/962-2403 (F) 850/224-5950, 850/561-7251 (F) 3599 Bloxham Cutoff Rd. [email protected] [email protected] Crawfordville, FL 32327 850/421-0042 Quill Turk, D.D.S. Howard Wesson President, Coastal Optimist Club Oyster Radio Carol Zurawka Proprietor, Dentistry by the Sea, Inc. 35 Island Dr., Ste. 16, Eastpoint, FL 32328 2606 Hwy. 98W P.O. Drawer 459, Panacea, FL 32346 850/670-8450 Carrabelle, FL 32322 850/984-5384 [email protected] l 850/697-9183 [email protected] [email protected] Robin M. Will Susan Turner U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Vice President, Wakulla Bank Refuge Ranger, St. Marks National Wildlife P.O. Box 610 Refuge Crawfordville, FL 32326 P.O. Box 68, St. Marks, FL 32355 850/926-7111 850/925-6121, 850/925-6930 (F) [email protected] [email protected]

x SHAC Comments and Responses

The role of the Scenic Highways Advisory the SHAC voted unanimously to recommend Franklin/Wakulla CAG Response Committee (SHAC) is to evaluate approval of the Franklin County Eligibility Existing permitted conforming billboards applications and determine if a candidate Application. SHAC comments and CAG along the corridor will not be removed. Non- corridor merits eligibility and designation as responses for the Wakulla County and conforming billboards are addressed in the a Florida Scenic Highway. This section of Franklin County Eligibility Applications are Action Plan under I. Interpretation/Signage the Designation Application summarizes the provided below. and in the Goals, Objectives, and Strategies comments made by the SHAC when under Strategy 2.2.5., “Encourage local In general, comments from the SHAC were reviewing Eligibility Applications for the Big governments to remove non-conforming and very complimentary of the Wakulla County Bend Scenic Byway. Included are comments non-permitted signs.” made by SHAC members and the Eligibility Application. Some comments that Franklin/Wakulla Corridor Advocacy Group’s did not require responses include: 2. How will the safety and LOS (CAG) responses to comments. “Model application, model county, model deficiencies be addressed? OK to include group of organizers! OUTSTANDING!” in CMP. In a letter dated October 28, 2005, Florida Kerri Post, VISIT FLORIDA Secretary of Transportation, Denver Stutler, Franklin/Wakulla CAG Response “Good background and interesting story,” Jr., P.E. stated that the Wakulla section of the Safety issues are addressed in the Action Diane Quigley, DCA Big Bend Scenic Byway “has met the Plan under A. Transportation eligibility requirements of the Florida Scenic “Background Conditions and Analysis Planning/Safety and in the Goals, Highways Program necessary for possible is very complete,” Pat Evans, DEP Objectives, and Strategies under Objective designation as a Florida Scenic Highway.” 2.3: Improve Corridor Safety. LOS See Appendix A for a copy of the Eligibility SHAC Comments and Responses for deficiencies were identified as ‘projected Determination letter. Wakulla County Eligibility traffic volumes’ for planning year 2009. Improvements to roadway capacity are The eligibility approval letter from the Application addressed under Strategy 2.3.3., “Improve Secretary of Transportation was based on the There were three comments from SHAC capacity, provide alternative transportation recommendation by the SHAC that the Big members on their evaluation forms submitted facilities, and encourage parallel routes in Bend Scenic Byway corridor merits to FDOT that required a response from the areas of high-volume traffic congestion eligibility as a Florida Scenic Highway. The Franklin/Wakulla CAG. The comments and wherever practical.” Wakulla County Eligibility Application was responses are identified below. presented to the SHAC on September 20, 3. Need more work regarding comp plan 2005 for their recommendation. At the Diane Quigley, AICP, relationship. Would like to see strategies September 2005 meeting, the SHAC gave Department of Community Affairs which include the identification of the the Franklin and Wakulla County CAGs scenic corridor in the comprehensive approval to develop a joint Designation 1. Mentions that once designated no new plan and strategies to protect, preserve Application due to the timing of Eligibility billboards will be approved. Will and enhance the corridor in accordance Application submittals. The Franklin County existing ones be removed? with the CMP. Eligibility Application was presented to the SHAC on July 20, 2006 for their recommendation. At the July 2006 meeting

xi SHAC Comments and Responses

Franklin/Wakulla CAG Response CME to local governments prior to their and enhancement are included under Goal 1 Additional work regarding the respective Comp Plan updates. The specific Preservation and Enhancement of Intrinsic comprehensive plan (Comp Plan) location within the Comp Plan for the draft Resources and Goal 2 Improvement of relationship has been conducted since the policy language, such as an existing Goal Transportation and Safety (see Chapter 5 Eligibility Phase. Chapter 12 Relationship to and Objective that supports the Byway Goals, Objectives and Strategies and the Comprehensive Plan identifies when Vision, has been identified. Chapter 12 also Chapter 14 Action Plan). each local government will be conducting identifies existing Comp Plan policies that their required Evaluation and Appraisal currently support scenic highway Report (EAR) and next Comp Plan update. designation and resource protection, Draft Comp Plan policy language has been preservation and enhancement. The drafted (see Chapter 12) and will be Objectives and Strategies in this Corridor submitted by the Big Bend Scenic Byway Management Plan that were developed to support resource protection, preservation

xii SHAC Comments and Responses

SHAC Comments and Responses for Franklin County. FDOT has committed 6.Don’t see discussion of significance, Franklin County Eligibility Application nearly $100 million in Federal Highway would like to see more discussion Administration emergency repair funds to (comment refers to Cultural, Historical The Franklin Eligibility Application was address hurricane damage on portions of and Archeological sections). approved by FDOT on August 24, 2006. In US 98 from Eastpoint to Carrabelle Beach. Franklin/Wakulla CAG Response general, comments from the SHAC were Articulated block walls will be installed The significance of Big Bend Scenic Byway very complimentary of the Franklin County along the coastline to prevent roadway intrinsic resources is provided in the Eligibility Application. Some comments that failure from future storms. Additionally, the description of Universal Criteria #4 in did not require responses include: relocation of US 98 has been discussed as a Chapter 3 Intrinsic Resource Assessment potential long-term project by the Franklin “This application is also a model for Scenic and Designation Criteria as required in the County Planning Department. The Franklin Designation Application/Corridor Highway applications; It is extremely Comprehensive Plans addresses coastal well-written, beautifully presented, extremely Management Plan. Corridor features zone protection in the Coastal/Conservation identified as exceptional, significant and easy to comprehend and truly paints the Element. picture,”Kerri Post, VISIT FLORIDA. distinctive are listed with a narrative An analysis of safety issues along the Big description of each resource. “Great local support,” Pat Evans, DEP. Bend Scenic Byway shows that safety Shawn Hartzer, Department of concerns currently exist along “Good history, very informative,” Diane ‘undeveloped’ segments of the corridor. Agriculture and Consumer Services, Quigley, DCA. Safety issues are addresses in Strategies Division of Forestry “Outstanding scenic [resources]; potential 2.3.1 and 2.3.3. 7.Limited archeological features (Bald P & for nature interpretation and education,” SP and St. George Island SP) and is 5.Ensure preservation techniques and Bob Jones, FL Department of State. BPSP even visible from roadway? standards in Comp Plan and Land There were three comments from SHAC Development Regulations. Franklin/Wakulla CAG Response members on their evaluation forms Franklin/Wakulla CAG Response The number of archeological resources has submitted to FDOT that required a response been identified in Figure 3.4 – Qualifying Chapter 10 Protection Techniques and from the Franklin/Wakulla CAG. The Resources. A complete listing of intrinsic Chapter 12 Relationship to the comments and responses are identified resources by trail segment is included in the Comprehensive Plan provide references to below. Intrinsic Resource Assessment Matrix policies that support resource preservation. (Figures 3.10 – 3.14). The matrix provides a Roadway improvements, landscaping, Diane Quigley, AICP, Department of reference to resource accessibility and type. building placement, and design are Community Affairs Appendix G provides a reference to addressed in Objectives 2.1 and 2.2 and resource visibility. 4.Concern over coastal erosion and safety supporting strategies and Action Plan items. as population/development grows. Cheryl Malin for Brian Telfair, Federal Franklin/Wakulla CAG Response Highway Administration Concern over coastal erosion is valid for the portions of the Big Bend Scenic Byway in

xiii

BIG BEND Scenic Byway

protection and public access rummage sale • Promote establishment of appropriate setbacks and • Promote family-friendly and pet-frien landscape screening to protect scenic views • Market Byway to private pilots and ch • Establish conservation easements or use other tools for airports further development and expansion of key resources • Promote the Byway through existing

UTILITIES TOURISM/RECREATION FACILITIES • Explore relocation of utility poles where they visually • Promote restoration of Panacea, Newport, and Lanark Mineral Springs for public access ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT impact scenic views • Promote goal of walkable communities (connectivity, town centers, alternative transportation) • Encourage a wider spectrum of shopp • Encourage central sewage, advanced water treatment, and • Encourage the establishment of a Big Bend Maritime Center in Panacea and a maritime heritage • Support training programs to improv improved septic systems museum in Apalachicola • Collaborate on mentoring programs f • Support improved stormwater control practices • Explore the creation of new facilities such as a butterfly farm • Seek designation as a National Scenic • Encourage construction and improvement of public restrooms and picnic sites possible ON • Support establishment of new accommodations as well as associated shops and restaurants in landscaping and removal of • Explore ways to increase use of recreation areas for boating, fishing, picnicking, etc. provides wildlife food and forage rs along rights-of-way, in medians, properties HISTORICAL/CULTURAL PRESERVATION along rights-of-way to protect • Support completion of an eding, and expand access for inventory of historic structures fe and sites s on landscaping, tree planting • Cooperate on restoration of ification efforts selected older buildings for tourism ng of intersections and use of • Encourage appropriate repair, blic view restoration, upgrading, and d pedestrian/bicycle facilities painting of homes and buildings in ie Bridge to Apalachicola historic districts on roadways and rights-of-way ADMINISTRATION signated as Adopt-a-Road • Monitor and periodically revise the A • Report to FDOT regarding problems INTERPRETATION/SIGNAGE ve working waterfronts and • Develop a Work Plan and correspond • Establish standard Byway-themed signing plan for public information and of wildflower/wildlife • Establish committees to address specif sites • Conduct meetings “in the Sunshine” t • Support incentives/opportunities for local signage that meet business and directional needs, while helping to maintain a distinctive “Old Florida” atmosphere rural character • Improve signage for, and public access to, attractions, parking, and facilities COORDINATION • Improve scale and location of directional sign for St. George Island on U.S. 98 in Eastpoint • Encourage coordination of regional t • Encourage local governments to remove non-conforming and non-permitted signs • Encourage participation of regional • Facilitate planning of interpretive sites, encouraging consistently-themed logos, designs, and styles resources projects for both the coastal and forest trails of the Byway • Develop a Master Plan to address corr • Encourage periodic prescribed burning and improved interpretation of the ecological and scenic viewing areas, public staging ar economic values of the practice tion, wildflower sites, and gateways. • Provide improved and expanded interpretive displays of red-cockaded woodpecker tree banding, • Develop a Big Bend Scenic Byway web “cat-faced” pines, history of Byway communities, black bears, etc. status information, contacts, and ann • Explore uses of old Forest Service Fire Towers as interpretive sites upcoming events and activities • Improve and/or establish observation points in key areas along the Byway • Involve interested and affected stakeho • Establish “gateways” and/or attractive welcome signs at entry points implementation strategy or St. Marks and Crooked River • Build formal and informal public/priv partnerships to implement individual ion of scenic views and public items Big Bend Scenic Byway Story

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Introduction

This document has been prepared as a of the information required for the Eligibility summary table (see Chapter 2, Table 2.1). model for future candidate corridors in the Application is also required for the The table offers a quick reference from each state. A unique collaboration led by local Designation Application as supporting data. Background Conditions Element to a Topic residents, state and local government Summaries at the beginning of each chapter Area in the Action Plan. A bulleted list of representatives, business owners, and and sub-section explain the importance of findings has also been included in this community organizations, has taken the the information. Whenever possible, tables, chapter to highlight significant opportunities initiative to secure Scenic Highway bulleted lists, maps and non-technical and constraints. Findings are also supported designation for one of the longest individual summaries have been provided to help the by tables, maps, and photos of existing candidate corridors in the State of Florida. reader understand what they are reading. conditions along the Byway corridor. The documentation included in this Corridor Management Plan has been prepared in The summaries below provide a guide for Intrinsic Resource Assessment and accordance with the requirements set forth the content included in this document. Designation Criteria in the Florida Scenic Highway Program Manual. The document, in its entirety, Executive Summary of the The intrinsic resources of the Byway tell the constitutes the Designation Application for Action Plan story of the Big Bend. The resources the combined Franklin County and Wakulla inventoried during the Eligibility Phase The Big Bend Scenic Byway CAG (BBSB County portions of the Big Bend Scenic have been described in further detail in this CAG) developed an executive summary Byway. chapter of the application. Resources have poster as a community participation tool. been identified and described in the The Big Bend Scenic Byway Corridor The poster is included in the beginning of following ways: this application to fulfill the program Advocacy Group (CAG) has been developing • Resource Visibility from the roadway the background information, intrinsic requirements for an Executive Summary of • Resources with Exceptional Features resource research and necessary the Action Plan. Also included in the poster partnerships to support the process of Scenic is a full-size Byway Map, the Byway Story, • Resources with Significant Features Highway Designation for almost six years. Vision, Goals, Objectives, Action Plan items, • Resources with Distinctive Features The 171-mile corridor in Florida’s Big Bend benefits and what the Byway does not do. If • Resources by type (Natural, Recreational, region has required continuous due approved, the poster will be used during the etc.) diligence in data collection, field work, goal Implementation Phase to educate decision- • Resource Continuity throughout the setting, visioning, planning, and forethought makers on Byway improvements that the corridor in strategic implementation. Great effort has Corridor Management Entity (CME) will be been devoted, not only to the research, but pursuing. This chapter of the application includes the also to the format used to communicate the Ten Universal Criteria and how each significance of the resources and local Background Conditions Analysis Criterion has been met. This chapter also illustrates the location of all identified support for this unique corridor. All the background research conducted resources (111 resources in total) in full- during the Eligibility Phase has been The following summary outlines the format color Byway maps. The reader can take a evaluated to determine opportunities and of this document to help the reader navigate ‘virtual tour’ of the Byway by reading each constraints along the corridor. This through the volumes of information of the Byway Trail (Coastal and Forest) information has been linked to the Goals, contained within this Corridor Management narratives, and following the gallery of Objectives, and Action Plan by topic in a Plan for the Big Bend Scenic Byway. Much resource photos and maps.

3 Introduction

Vision, Goals and Story Objectives, Strategies and The content in these chapters has been Action Plan refined since the Eligibility Application. The The BBSB CAG developed a Preliminary Story has been condensed to one paragraph Action Plan during the Eligibility Phase. The to be used as a marketing tool for the Byway. improvements and concerns from field surveys identified during that phase were Community Participation Program developed into objectives and strategies. The Community Participation Program These were then grouped into “action items” (CPP) includes every aspect of the and categories by topic. The Action Plan designation process: formal and informal also identifies responsible parties, potential CAG meetings, developing local support, funding sources, and prioritization by short, securing funding, promoting the Byway, mid- or long-term. The Background organizing a CME, and developing Conditions Analysis, and Intrinsic Resource partnerships and agreements. The BBSB Assessment, and Designation Criteria are CAG has created a model process for linked to the Goals, Objectives, and designating a corridor as a Florida Scenic Strategies in the Action Plan. Highway. See Chapters 7, 8, 9, 11, and 13 for examples. Protection Techniques and Relation to the Comp Plan The intent of Florida Scenic Highway Designation is to preserve, enhance, and maintain intrinsic resources for the traveling public. Protecting Byway resources is a key component in the Scenic Highway Program. These two chapters provide all available data on plans, policies, and programs to protect the corridor’s resources, from management area master plans to roadside litter removal programs. Also included in the Comp Plan chapter (see Chapter 12), is draft policy language and identification of the element in each local government Comprehensive Plan where language may be inserted to reflect the Goals, Vision, and corridor limits of the Big Bend Scenic Byway.

4 Chapter 2: Corridor Limits

Roadway Description

Functional Classification

Roadway Characteristics

Right-of-Way Width

Utility Placements

Acquisitions

Land Use

Zoning

Signage

Billboards

Safety Issues

Traffic Volumes and User Types

Level of Service

Transportation Planning

Roadway Improvements

Social and Economic Conditions

Tourism and User Facilities

Other Programs Background Conditions Analysis

A Background Assessment was conducted protection and improvement. An analysis of reader bring together the background during the Eligibility Phase of the program background conditions supports the findings research conducted during the Eligibility for the Franklin and Wakulla County in this chapter. The Florida Scenic Highway Phase with the Action Plan developed portions of the Big Bend Scenic Byway. The Program Manual (2003) requires a Summary during the Designation Phase. Background Assessment provided of Findings that “should be linked to the information on existing conditions of the Goals and Objectives, and to the Action Plan The table below links each data element to a Byway such as a physical description of the (3.6.2).” The following table and bulleted list corresponding Action Plan item by topic. Byway corridor, functional characteristics, of findings is designed to meet this Reference numbers for Goals, Objectives, and area land uses, utilities, and planned requirement. It is intended to help the Strategies relate to Chapter 14 Action Plan. improvements. Information also documented during the data collection phase included the existing policy/program framework for the Byway corridor.

This chapter provides a summary of the existing conditions and indicates potential opportunities and constraints within the corridor. This analysis, when combined with the Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria (see Chapter 3) directly links all Goals, Objectives, and Strategies developed for this Corridor Management Plan document.

Summary of Findings There are a number of existing conditions that may provide opportunities for intrinsic resource

7 Background Conditions Analysis

The following list illustrates opportunities • Some phone, cable and internet are Safety Issues and constraints that currently exist along the underground in fiber optic cables • Long, straight, rural corridors have corridor. The information included in this • Only urban areas have sewer systems relatively high fatality rates chapter deals primarily with the physical • US 98 from Medart to Panacea has features of the corridor, such as roadway Land Use and Zoning highest traffic volume, but had zero (0) characteristics, traffic conditions, land use, • Significant amount of private land is fatalities (‘99-’03) and a socioeconomic profile. Findings undeveloped • US 98 from Medart to Newport has lower relative to Intrinsic Resources are supported • Majority of Franklin/Wakulla land is traffic volumes, but had seven (7) fatalities in Chapter 3 Intrinsic Resource Assessment publicly owned (‘99-’03) and Designation Criteria. • Commercial land uses located at major • Pedestrian and bicyclist facilities are Roadway Characteristics intersections limited along the corridor • 171 miles of regionally significant scenic • Mixed Use zoning in urban areas or corridors transitioning urban areas Traffic Volumes and User Types • Functional classification is predominantly • Historic District in downtown • Highest traffic volumes on US 98 near Principal Arterial Apalachicola Medart in Wakulla County and in • Corridor includes two distinct scenic • Setbacks and height requirements are downtown Apalachicola in Franklin County routes: the Coastal Trail and Forest Trail addressed in zoning ordinances • The US 98 segment in Medart has three • Approximately 60 percent of the corridor schools along the corridor, which is adjacent to public land Signage and Billboards generates significant commuter traffic • Approximately 42 percent of the corridor • FDOT regulates highway directional signs • Non-vehicular users (pedestrians/ is adjacent to a significant water body within right-of-way bicyclists) are focused near multi-use path viewshed (rivers, bays and/or the Gulf of • Local government ordinances/codes networks, recreational land uses, and Mexico) regulate on-premise (business) signs on urban areas private property Right-of-Way Widths • FDOT Outdoor Advertising Office Level of Service • 50' to 66' in urban areas regulates billboard permits adjacent to • LOS is based on existing traffic volumes • Typically 100' to 200' in rural/undeveloped state roads • Local comprehensive plans determine areas • Once designated, no new billboard minimum standard (typically LOS C) • Roadway width is typically 34' (two 12' permits on state roads within ‘control • US 98 in Medart and downtown travel lanes and 5' paved shoulders) zone’ Apalachicola are projected to have LOS D • State directional signs are concentrated at or worse by 2009 Utilities major intersections • Parallel facilities are encouraged for • Underground in new developments • No consistent sign theme exists along corridors with projected LOS deficiencies • Utility easements exist adjacent to road Byway Transportation Planning right-of-way • Panacea has Waterfronts Florida gateway • FDOT Five-Year Work Program projects • Overhead power lines carry electric, signs include state-funded resurfacing, bridge phone and cable

8 Background Conditions Analysis

replacements, sidewalk and bike path Tourism and User Facilities local streets and county roads. See Table 2.2 projects • Nature- and Heritage-based tourism is for a detailed route description of the • Local government transportation planning being promoted in Wakulla County corridor limits and Figure 2.1 for an is limited to county/local roads or facilities • Lodging facilities are needed along illustration of the corridor limits. • Capital Region Transportation Planning Coastal Trail East in Wakulla County The limits of the Big Bend Scenic Byway Agency (CRTPA) coordinates federal and • Wakulla Welcome Center in Panacea may include a length of 171 centerline-miles of state transportation funding serve as a Byway resource and gateway roads and a corridor width of 600 feet • Apalachee Regional Planning Council • St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge outside the edge of an average public right- provides technical assistance to the region Visitors Center may serve as Coastal Trail of-way width for urban areas (see Right-of- • Access Management Plans are developed East gateway Way Widths in this chapter). In rural areas, specific to publicly managed lands • Beach access for recreational fishing is an the width of the corridor includes the limits • Northwest Florida Transportation Corridor issue in Franklin County along US 98 of visibility. For example, the right-of-way Authority is currently conducting US 98 width in downtown Sopchoppy is 50 feet. corridor master plan study Corridor Limits The width of the Byway corridor in The Franklin/Wakulla Big Bend Scenic Sopchoppy includes the 50 foot right-of-way, Roadway Improvements Byway encompasses a 171-mile route in and 600 feet outside the edge of right-of- • US 98 Emergency Repair project is Franklin and Wakulla Counties. The corridor way, totaling a 1,250 foot wide corridor. In underway in Franklin County from limits have not changed from the Eligibility rural areas, such as portions of US 98 on the Eastpoint to Carrabelle Phase. The proposed Byway corridor limits Coastal Trail Central, right-of-way width is • Ongoing FDOT resurfacing projects are extend along US 98 (referred to as the 150 feet. The width of the corridor in this identified in the Five-Year Work Program Coastal Trail) from the western limit in the rural area of US 98 includes the 150 foot • Site-specific improvements are occurring City of Apalachicola, Franklin County, right-of-way, and the limits of visibility, from private developments adjacent to the including a spur to St. George Island which are dependent on the physical edge corridor (SR 300), to the eastern limit on CR 59 in of the viewshed from the corridor. • Design for the Ochlockonee Bay Trail and the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge in The limits of the corridor width were construction for the St. George Island Bike Wakulla County. The corridor limits include established to be consistent with the Path are funded three corridors definition of the ‘control (referred to as the zone’ specified in Florida Social and Economic Conditions Forest Trails) through Statute for managing • 32,700 combined population for Franklin Tate’s Hell State outdoor advertising for and Wakulla Counties (2000 Census) Forest (SR 65), state and local roads • Annual festivals conducted throughout the Wakulla State Forest designated as scenic region ten months out of the year (SR 267) and the highways. The corridor • Hunting and fishing Apalachicola limits of the Big Bend National Forest • Tourism is significant economic Scenic Byway DOES NOT (CR 375). The development activity change public right-of-way corridor also includes or create any inherent land short segments of use protections, nor limit,

9 Background Conditions Analysis

in any way, private property rights within the limits of the corridor (see Executive Summary – What the Byway Does Not Do). The corridor limits attempt to provide an ‘area of influence’ to focus Byway-related improvements, enhancements and programs.

However, the Action Plan for the Big Bend Scenic Byway does not solely focus on areas within the corridor limits. For example, some strategies along the corridor apply to resources directly accessible from the boundary of the corridor limits.

Due to the overall length of the corridor, providing scale maps of the corridor limits for each segment is not feasible for a report of this type. Sample corridor limit maps are illustrated for typical urban and rural areas in Figures 2.2 and 2.3.

10 Background Conditions Analysis Figure 2.1: Corridor Limits

11 Background Conditions Analysis Figure 2.2: Sample Urban Corridor Limits

12 Background Conditions Analysis Figure 2.3: Sample Rural Corridor Limits

13 Background Conditions Analysis

Roadway/Right-of-Way Description Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, Dr. Julian located along the corridor including G. Bruce St. George Island State Park, archeological sites, historic The Big Bend Scenic Byway comprises a Ochlockonee River State Park, and the buildings/sites/districts, recreational areas, series of scenic corridors in Florida’s Apalachicola River Wildlife and scenic viewsheds, communities with annual Panhandle along the boundary of Florida’s Environmental Area to name but a few. cultural festivals, and some of the most largest national forest, Apalachicola Numerous other significant resources are diverse natural habitats in North America. National Forest, to the Refer to the maps and breathtaking Coastal Highway supporting text in along the Gulf of Mexico. The Chapter 3 for an 220-mile route passes through illustration of abundant Leon, Wakulla, and Franklin intrinsic resources Counties. The Byway provides along the Big Bend access to communities and Scenic Byway. natural areas along the Wakulla, Ochlockonee, and Apalachicola Functional Rivers, in addition to the Gulf of Mexico shoreline. Classification The functional This Corridor Management Plan classification for the describes a 171-mile portion of corridors in Franklin the Byway in two of the three and Wakulla Counties counties; Franklin and Wakulla. varies, depending on The Leon County section will the type and location of join this byway (Wakulla and the facility. In general, Franklin) as a Scenic Highway any U.S. Highway corridor extension. The Leon functions as a principal County segment of the arterial roadway along candidate Byway will be the Byway. The submitted separately as an functional classification extension at a later date. of state, county, and The two-county portion of the local roads will vary Byway corridor passes by well- depending on traffic known significant intrinsic volumes and lane resources such as the St. Marks configurations. A National Wildlife Refuge, St. summary of functional Vincent National Wildlife classification for the Refuge, Apalachicola National corridors is listed in Forest, Wakulla State Forest, Table 2.3. Tate’s Hell State Forest, Edward

14 Background Conditions Analysis

Roadway Characteristics resources in this chapter and Chapter 3. The corridors along the Gulf of Mexico coastline Roadways within the corridor limits are will be referred to the Coastal Trail West/ typically two-lane undivided roads. The Central/East and inland corridors will be corridor typically consists of 24-foot to 34- referred to as Forest Trail West/Central/East foot wide paved roads, including two 12-foot (see Figure 2.4). travel lanes, and four-foot to five-foot paved shoulders. The public right-of-way on either The following section provides a description side of the road includes 20-foot to 50-foot of roadway characteristics by Trail from West grass shoulders with forest, private property to East, and South to North. This method is lines, major water bodies, and/or utility poles consistent with FDOT’s mile marker at the physical edge of the viewshed. Major program where mile markers go up as bridge structures typically include nine-foot travelers head north or east. However, the paved shoulders with steel or concrete guard ‘Virtual Tour’ of the continuity of Byway rails. Turning lanes and traffic control resources provided in Chapter 3 begins in devices are typically located at intersections the east and travels west. These descriptions with other arterial roads, in commercial were provided in both directions to appeal to areas, new developments, and/or near visitors, who may travel in any direction school sites. along the Byway and begin their travels at either the eastern or western gateway. A The following description of Roadway map and summary of roadway features for Characteristics illustrates what a traveler the corridor is listed on the following pages. would see while traversing the Big Bend Scenic Byway, focusing mainly on physical characteristics such as number of travel lanes, type of shoulder, presence of traffic control devices, visible landmarks, etc. The description summarizes significant physical features of the roadway and some of the major resources located along the corridor to help paint a picture of the Byway route for the everyday traveler. Because of the length of the corridor, a detailed description of every identified intrinsic resource would require volumes of narrative. The following sections are therefore intended only to offer a glimpse of the abundant resources and indicate how they relate to traveling along the route. Maps and graphics provide additional documentation of the intrinsic

15 Background Conditions Analysis Figure 2.4: Corridor Segments

16 Background Conditions Analysis

Coastal Trail West towards the town of Eastpoint on the other Gulf Coastal Waterway Bridge consists of a side of Apalachicola Bay. The drive over the three and a half-mile span with nine-foot The western gateway for the Big Bend bridge offers breathtaking views of the shoulders. Portions of the old SR 300 Bridge Scenic Byway is the Scipio Creek Marina in area’s National Estuarine Research Reserve located adjacent to Byway remain as the City of Apalachicola, Franklin County. and barrier islands, including the St. artificial reefs and fishing piers. These are The Byway route follows Market Street out Vincent National Wildlife Refuge to the open to the public with pedestrian and of the marina parking lot through a semi- southwest. bicycle access. residential area past the historic Orman House on the right and numerous other The John Gorrie Memorial Bridge consists SR 300 ends at a T-intersection on St. historic buildings. Market Street consists of of a four-mile two-lane bridge with nine-foot George Island at the major east-west a two-lane road without sidewalks. Market shoulders or breakdown lanes. The roadway on the island, CR 300. The portion Street joins Coastal Highway US 98 coming shoulders are not conducive to bicycle or of the Byway near the intersection is a two- in from the west at Avenue E nine blocks pedestrian use. However, the height of the lane divided roadway with palm-tree-lined south of the marina. bridge offers panoramic views of the landscaped medians. The island’s commercial shipping and fishing on the commercial land uses are concentrated at Apalachicola River and Bay. this location. The Byway route turns left and continues east as a two-lane undivided Once over the water and back on land, the roadway without paved shoulders. The St. corridor takes an immediate right turn south George Island bike path is separated from at the urban edge of Eastpoint on CR 65 the south side of the roadway and parallels (South Bayshore Drive) to access St. George the Byway route for over a mile. Island. CR 65 is a two-lane county road without paved shoulders. St. George Island The corridor continues along CR 300 for four can be accessed directly from US 98, but miles to the entrance of Dr. Julian G. Bruce CR 65 was determined to be a more scenic St. George Island State Park. Construction route by the CAG to bypass a portion of of a bike path extension east to the park US 98 with a concentration of billboard and entrance is currently funded in FDOT’s 5- point-of-sale signs near the SR 300/US 98 Year Work Program. Upon entering the State intersection in Eastpoint. CR 65 is bordered Park entrance gate, the roadway is classified mostly by undeveloped land up to the as a state facility, SR 300. The corridor in the This portion of the corridor resembles an SR 300 or Island Drive intersection. park consists of two ten-foot travel lanes urban streetscape with historic brick without paved shoulders. The Byway route buildings located close to the street, curb, The Byway then takes another right turn on continues through the State Park to the and gutter, wide sidewalks, benches for SR 300, heading due south towards St. eastern park boundary. sitting and socializing, and diagonal on- George Island. SR 300 consists of a two-lane street parking for local businesses. The roadway with five-foot paved shoulders. The The Coastal Trail West returns to US 98 from Byway route passes through historic Byway crosses over St. George Sound on the the vicinity of the CR 65/SR 300 intersection downtown Apalachicola, continues east on Gulf Coastal Waterway Bridge to access the on Patton Drive. Patton Drive is a two-lane US 98, and ascends out of the port town emerald blue water and sugar-white sand undivided county road without paved across the John Gorrie Memorial Bridge beaches of St. George Island. The SR 300 shoulders that connects SR 300 with US 98

17 Background Conditions Analysis

east of Eastpoint’s commercial core. Patton in downtown Carrabelle and continues Drive passes through commercial land uses along the city’s picturesque harbor front. along the coast such as bait shops, seafood restaurants, and related fishing operations. This portion of the corridor illustrates the The combined CR 65/Patton Drive section of historic character of the city with small the Byway acts as a southern bypass loop locally-owned shops, sidewalks, and on- around an area of Eastpoint with a street parking. The Riverwalk, a considerable number of billboard and redevelopment area located adjacent to the business signs. The US 98 portion of the harbor, includes streetscape improvements Coastal Trail West continues for three miles such as a boardwalk overlooking the and ends at the SR 65 intersection. Carrabelle harbor, landscaping and street amenities including pedestrian-scale Coastal Trail Central lighting, benches, and railings. New residential development is also occurring in A majority of the Coastal Trail corridor The Coastal Trail Central provides access to this area. The Byway route continues east consists of a two-lane road with five-foot the Tate’s Hell State Forest resources, from the harbor through a residential area paved shoulders. Older sections of asphalt including the historic Crooked River and merges back with US 98. The CR 30-A typically do not have paved shoulders, but Lighthouse and the High Bluff Coastal Trail. portion of the corridor that passes through as these areas are routinely resurfaced, The route passes by one of the few state- the Carrabelle Harbor and adjacent paved shoulders will potentially be included. owned roadside public beach facilities at residential neighborhoods is approximately two miles in length. The Coastal Trail Central portion of the Carrabelle Beach. The location is also a historic World War II training site. The corridor in Franklin County offers some of The remaining eight and one-half miles of public beach facility includes turn lanes off the most spectacular ocean views along the the Coastal Trail Central follow the coastline US 98, parking, restrooms, covered picnic Byway. The route segment begins at the east along US 98 through the historic tables, and a white sand swimming beach. US 98/SR 65 intersection and travels east for community of Lanark Village and pass by The route continues along US 98 across the approximately 23 miles to the US 98/SR 377 the residential community of St. James Bay Carrabelle River into the historic City of (Sopchoppy Highway) just east of the St. ending at the US 98/SR 377 (Sopchoppy Carrabelle. James Bay residential community. The Highway) intersection. The route consists of corridor is bordered by Tate’s Hell State The portion of the corridor that passes a two-lane road without paved shoulders. Forest to the north and the Gulf of Mexico to through downtown Carrabelle consists of a Private land borders the corridor to the north the south. The City of Carrabelle is located two-lane road with nine-foot paved and single-deep residential lots/houses to in the middle of this largely undeveloped shoulders, which serve as turn lanes and/or the south. Many of the residential lots are segment along the Carrabelle River. Because on-street parallel parking areas. Sidewalks undeveloped with real estate ‘for sale’ signs of the roadway’s proximity to the Gulf, are intermittently present along this portion posted along the driveway entrances on hurricane-generated tidal surges have of the corridor. One of the significant US 98. Real estate property values have historically eroded the roadway, forcing the intrinsic resources in the city is the increased dramatically along the Coastal route to temporarily close during Carrabelle Harbor. The Byway route turns Trail in recent years. reconstruction. right off US 98 onto CR 30-A (Gulf Avenue)

18 Background Conditions Analysis

Coastal Trail East The Byway corridor crosses over the resemble a more historic small town. Ochlockonee Bay Bridge and enters Wakulla Buildings are located closer to the roadway, The Coastal Trail East segment of the Big County at this point. The bridge includes some sidewalks are present and mature oak Bend Scenic Byway corridor begins in two travel lanes with nine-foot paved trees have remained adjacent to the road. Franklin County, but a majority of the route shoulders. The one-mile bridge span The paved shoulder on US 98 in Panacea lies in Wakulla County. The route begins at provides exceptional views of the varies and buildings are typically located at the US 98/SR 377 intersection, and Ochlockonee River to the north and the edge of asphalt. The Coastal Trail East continues in an eastern direction across the Ochlockonee Bay to the south. There is a passes through about one and one-half miles remaining portion of St. James Island. St. flashing yellow light at the east end of the of the Panacea community. Panacea is a James Island is the land surrounded by the bridge for the Surf Road intersection in the designated Waterfronts Florida Community Gulf, Ochlockonee Bay and the Carrabelle small community of Ochlockonee Bay. The and includes a working waterfront for River. intersection is the location of a small service commercial fishermen in the area. station/country store, private campground, The ten-mile drive from US 98/SR 377 along The Coastal Trail East continues east of US 98 up to the Ochlockonee Bay bridge is seafood restaurant (currently being rebuilt from the ground up due to 2005 hurricane Panacea for three miles to the US 319/ surrounded by undeveloped forested land. SR 375 (Sopchoppy Highway) intersection. The land is privately owned. This area has a damage) and a vacant storefront. A proposed bike trail, the Ochlockonee Bay Trail, will The characteristics of the roadway in more high occurrence of bear sightings due in rural undeveloped areas such as this one large part to the pristine bear habitat on eventually cross the Coastal Trail East at this intersection. The planned and funded trail typically consists of a two-lane road with either side of the roadway. Bear crossings five-foot paved shoulders. This characteristic are also frequent along this portion of the will parallel Surf Road starting from the Gulf of Mexico at Mashes Sands County Park is very typical for the rural areas between Byway. This segment consists of a two-lane the small communities along the Coastal road with five-foot paved shoulders. The and running to the City of Sopchoppy, totaling over 11 miles in length. The trail Trail. The US 98/US 319 intersection is corridor is very located in the vicinity of the community of scenic with few project is a partnership between Wakulla County, the St. Marks National Wildlife Medart. This area of Coastal Trail East roadway signs. The includes turn lanes for the Medart Alligator Harbor Refuge, and FDOT. Preserve can be The two and one-half mile portion of seen to the south Coastal Trail East between the from a one and communities of Ochlockonee Bay and three-quarter mile Panacea is largely undeveloped and stretch of roadway provides pristine tidal marsh views of along the coastline. Tide Creek north and south of the Alligator Point and roadway. The route consists of a two- Bald Point State lane elevated roadway with four-foot Park are both paved shoulders. The roadway is accessed from elevated due to the proximity of the tidal US 98 along this marsh. Upon entering the community of Byway segment. Panacea, the roadway characteristics

19 Background Conditions Analysis

Elementary and the Sopchoppy Highway Coastal Trail East corridor has the same East portion of the Byway. The SR 363 (US319/SR 375). The two-mile section of the roadway characteristics predominant (Woodville Highway/Port Leon Drive) Byway that passes through Medart has one throughout the Big Bend Scenic Byway, but intersection is located two miles east of the of the highest volumes of traffic along the the FDOT right-of-way width is 200 feet; Wakulla River bridge on US 98. Byway. Due to high traffic volumes, features double the Byway average of 100 feet (see such as turn lanes, striped medians, Right-of-Way Width sub-section in this SR 363 is a six-mile spur road off the US 98 concrete medians, designated bike lanes chapter). The result is a corridor that corridor. The intersection has a flashing and a traffic signal exist in this area. includes the same typical roadway with yellow signal and is in close proximity to the more generous grass shoulders and a wider Tallahassee–St. Marks Historic Railroad Trial The characteristics of this portion of the viewshed. This portion of the Byway has bike path. An un-signalized striped Byway are significant because two US only two curves in the road, providing crosswalk is located on US 98 for the paved highways converge along this two-mile excellent sight-distance and visibility. multi-use Tallahassee–St. Marks Historic section of the Byway. The only US Highway Because of these physical features, the Railroad Trail. The paved trail parallels the connecting Tallahassee to the Gulf, US 319 corridor has one of the highest speed limits west side of SR 363 a distance of 16 miles and Florida’s Panhandle coast highway, US along the Byway (60 mph) and one of the from the City of Tallahassee to the City of St. 98 intersect here. US 319 enters the Byway highest fatality rates (see Safety Issues in Marks. This regionally significant resource corridor near two school sites to the north of this chapter). is more closely associated with the Forest Medart (Medart High School and Middle Trail East. SR 363 consists of a two-lane School) and exits the corridor near a school There are east and westbound turn lanes at roadway with four-foot paved shoulders. The site to the south of Medart (Medart the entrance to the Wildwood subdivision roadway shoulders narrow as the spur route Elementary). Crawfordville, the Wakulla approximately two miles east of the US 319 approaches the city limits of St. Marks. The County seat, lies four and one half miles to (Crawfordville Highway) intersection. One corridor continues through downtown St. the north on US 319 (Crawfordville major intersection is located within this Marks on two local streets (Riverbreeze Highway) and the City of Sopchoppy lies six segment of the Byway: CR 365, which Street and Riverside Drive) out to the San and one-half miles to the west on US 319/ provides access to the small coastal town of Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park at SR 375 (Sopchoppy Highway). Shell Point six miles south, on the coast. The the confluence of the Wakulla and St. Marks Coastal Trail East rivers. The local streets consist of two-lane The corridor continues corridor crosses roads without striping or paved shoulders. east from the US 319 the beautiful The roadway shoulders consist of tidal (Crawfordville Highway) Wakulla River five marsh and subsequent flooding of the two intersection through miles east of the streets occurs during heavy rainstorms or another underdeveloped CR 365 hurricanes. 12-mile segment of the intersection. The Coastal Trail East to origin of the The Coastal Trail East continues along the SR 363 (Woodville Wakulla River, US 98 corridor from the SR 363 intersection Highway). The Woodville Wakulla Springs, to the CR 59 intersection two and one-half Highway serves as the is located six miles miles to the east. The CR 59 intersection is only north/south road to upstream within located in the community of Newport and the City of St. Marks. The the Forest Trail represents the eastern gateway to the Big US 98 portion of the Bend Scenic Byway. The St. Marks National

20 Background Conditions Analysis

Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center is located shoulders and pine consists of a six and three and one-half miles south of US 98. The forest at the edge of the one-half mile two- corridor consists of a two-lane road without viewshed. Wildlife, lane county road striping or paved shoulders. The roadbed is wildflowers, and exotic without paved partially elevated through tidal marsh areas. plants such as the shoulders. Three- The corridor is well known for recreational carnivorous Pitcher quarters of the fishing in the tidal pools and spotting plant can be seen along CR 299 corridor lies wildlife such as migratory birds, alligators, this portion of the Forest adjacent to the and deer. The roadway continues past the Trail West. National Forest. A Visitor’s Center for an additional six and one short one and one- half miles to the road’s end at the historic St. Forest Trail Central half mile section of Marks Lighthouse on Apalachee Bay. the corridor, in the The Forest Trail Central vicinity of US 319, is another north/south Forest Trail West is bordered by corridor and parallels private lands. The corridor is characteristic The Forest Trail West segment of the Big the Ochlockonee River. The 40-mile corridor of rural countryside. Bend Scenic Byway begins on SR 65 at the begins at the intersection of US 319 US 98 intersection in Franklin County about (Sopchoppy Highway) and US 98 The Forest Trail Central continues from the two miles east of the community of intersection in eastern Franklin County, end of CR 299 in an eastern direction to Eastpoint. The corridor extends for 25 miles crosses the Ochlockonee River into Wakulla downtown Sopchoppy. This segment of the north to the Franklin/Liberty County line County, extends to the City of Sopchoppy, Byway has the combined designation of a and parallels the Apalachicola River to the and ends to the north at the Wakulla/Leon county road, state highway and a downtown west. The corridor consists of a recently- County line. The US 319 segment of the main street. A small bridge near downtown repaved two-lane roadway with five-foot corridor is a six and one-half mile two-lane includes a five-foot paved shoulder, one and paved shoulders. The entire corridor is roadway with five-foot paved shoulders. The one-half foot walkway, and railing. As the nearly contained within Tate’s Hell State Ochlockonee River bridge at the Franklin/ segment enters Sopchoppy, the roadway Forest, Apalachicola National Forest (ANF), Wakulla county line consists of two travel characteristics change to a two-lane road and Apalachicola River Wildlife and lanes and nine-foot paved shoulders and with six-foot paved shoulders for parallel Environmental Area lands. Tate’s Hell State spans 850 feet. The Ochlockonee River State parking and five-foot sidewalks on both Forest and the ANF are the largest state and Park is accessed from this corridor and sides of the roadway. Buildings and property national forests in Florida, respectively. The includes a day-use area, campground, and lines are located at the back of the sidewalk. segment passes through 17 miles of roadway bay access. The park entrance is three- There is one stop sign in downtown along Tate’s Hell State Forest and quarters of a mile from the Ochlockonee Sopchoppy on at Municipal Avenue. The Apalachicola River Wildlife and River bridge on the east side of the roadway. corridor ends at the historic Sopchoppy Environmental Area land before entering the The US 319 segment ends at the T- Railroad Depot building on Winthrop Street. ANF boundary. The portion of SR 65 in the intersection with CR 299 on the west side of Sopchoppy includes a historic schoolhouse ANF is a designated National Forest Scenic the roadway. and a handful of small businesses in this Byway known as the Apalachee Savannahs quiet town along the Sopchoppy River. Forest Scenic Byway. The characteristics of CR 299 (Curtis Mill Road) connects this corridor include a paved roadway, grass Sopchoppy with the Coastal Trail. CR 299

21 Background Conditions Analysis

The Forest Trail Central backtracks rumble strips and signs are used to northwest from downtown Sopchoppy on identify the Tallahassee–St. Marks CR 375 (Smith Creek Road) through the Historic Railroad Trail crossing. A Apalachicola National Forest for 25 miles to striped crosswalk is also located at the Wakulla/Leon County line. The corridor the intersection for the trail users. consists of a two-lane rural road without A flashing yellow signal is located at paved shoulders. The route parallels the the intersection of SR 61 five miles Ochlockonee River and passes by numerous north of SR 363. Three and one-half boat landings on the river, scenic views, miles further north, rumble strips wildlife viewing areas, the Bradwell Bay located on the approaches to the Wilderness Area, and also crosses the US 319 (Crawfordville Highway) Florida National Scenic Trail. warn the Byway traveler of one of the few traffic signals located along the Forest Trail East Big Bend Scenic Byway. The Forest Trail East segment of the Big Bend Scenic Byway begins at the Right-oof-WWay Width intersection of US 98 and SR 267 (Bloxham The existing or maintained right-of- Cutoff) in the community of Newport, way (ROW) widths along the corridor Wakulla County. The corridor extends 17 vary according to roadway miles north through the Wakulla State Forest characteristics and land uses. ROW and Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park is narrower in more urban areas such ending at the Wakulla/Leon County line as Sopchoppy, Panacea, Carrabelle, within the Apalachicola National Forest. The and Apalachicola. In these corridor Forest Trail East parallels the Wakulla River segments, buildings will be located and passes through Wakulla Springs State close to the road. In the rural and Park. The SR 267 portion of the segment forested corridor segments, existing consists of a 16-mile two-lane roadway with ROW is typically 100-feet to 200-feet. five-foot paved shoulders. SR 267 was FDOT considers the maintained resurfaced in late 2005. The CR 373 ROW to be the roadway pavement, and the Utility Placements (Springhill Road) portion of Forest Trail East width of the shoulder where FDOT has Utilities are necessary for the communities consists of a one-mile two-lane roadway completed routine maintenance for over four along the Big Bend Scenic Byway and can without paved shoulders. years. Corridor segments with ROW in be considered opportunities in many There are three significant intersections excess of 100' may be locations for respects. Utilities and associated services along the Bloxham Cutoff portion of Forest improvements such as bike paths, parking, provide benefits such as water, power, Trail East. The SR 267 corridor intersects interpretation sites, scenic viewing areas or technological advantages for local SR 363 (Woodville Highway) and the landscaping treatments. A summary of the businesses, wastewater management and Tallahassee–St. Marks Historic Railroad Trail minimum and maximum ROW widths for lines of communication. In general, utilities four miles north of US 98. Advanced warning each segment is described in Table 2.4. along the Big Bend Scenic Byway can also

22 Background Conditions Analysis pose constraints to the scenic nature of the Franklin County City of Carrabelle corridor. Overhead power lines, utility poles City of Apalachicola The City of Carrabelle has both six-inch and and/or structures, transformers at eight-inch underground waterlines buried intersections, and septic systems can have The City of Apalachicola has six to eight- six to nine feet underground running from negative effects on views and water quality, inch underground waterlines within the the Carrabelle River. Carrabelle uses respectively. The Action Plan identifies some corridor along US 98/SR 30. Apalachicola vacuum and gravity sewer lines for strategies to address these constraints such uses gravity and vacuum sewer lines for wastewater management. Overhead power as screening utilities at intersections, wastewater management; lines are buried lines carry power, phone, and cable on the continuing installation of utilities three to eight feet deep. Overhead power northern curb line on some single pole and underground in new developments, and lines carry power, phone, and cable on the some H-frame structures along US 98/SR 30. using best management practices for north side of the roadway corridors on some Structures are 65 to 85 feet tall and are stormwater and sanitary sewer. single pole and some H-frame power line distributed 250 to 450 feet apart. structures along US 98/SR 30. Structures are All known utility companies with utility 65 to 85 feet in height and are spaced Eastpoint placements within the Byway corridors were approximately 250 to 450 feet apart. The community of Eastpoint has three-, six-, contacted. A description of utility and eight-inch underground water mains placements within the corridor and their buried three feet deep beginning at CR 65 respective contacts is provided in Table 2.5. and across the bridge to St. George Island. Eastpoint uses vacuum sewer lines buried three to six feet deep for wastewater management. St. George Island primarily relies on septic tanks except in the State Park and in a few developments where small treatment facilities exist. The island’s water is pumped across the bridge through three-,

23 Background Conditions Analysis

six-, and eight-inch water mains, and then cables along the US 98/SR 30 corridor. Bay. An additional line is located off US 98/ buried three feet deep once on land. Along Cable lines are typically located both above SR 30 out to the community of Wildwood. US 98/SR 30, overhead power lines carry ground on utility pole structures and below The towns of Panacea, Sopchoppy, and St. power, phone, and cable on the northern ground three feet deep. Breaks in service Marks have their own water supply, and curb line on some single pole and some include: between Carrabelle and Eastpoint, underground water lines. H-frame structures. Structures are 65 to 85 Lanark Village to Alligator Point, and the St. feet tall and are distributed 250 feet to 450 James Bay area. Talquin Electric feet apart. Talquin Electric provides electric, water, and St. George Island Cable sewer service to residents in Gadsden, Leon, St. George Island Cable provides phone, Wakulla, Liberty, and Jefferson counties. cable, and High Speed Internet services to Water service, either eight-inch or ten-inch residences on St. George Island. Both lines, is located within right-of-way along coaxial and fiberoptic cables are buried 38 SR 267 from US 319 to Wakulla Springs. inches underground and are located on both One eight-inch water line crosses US 98/ sides of SR 300. There are many breaks in SR 30 at the CR 365 intersection. There are service depending on the number of current no underground service lines along the subscribers. CR 375 portion of the corridor in Wakulla County. Wakulla County Talquin Electric provides overhead electric City of Sopchoppy distribution lines along CR 375, four miles The City of Sopchoppy has six-inch outside of Sopchoppy, up to the Leon County underground waterlines within the corridor line; on SR 267, from Springhill road to Lanark Village along SR 375 (Rose Street). The City uses Wakulla Springs; and on a portion of US 98 Lanark Village has six- to nine-inch septic service for wastewater management; between Medart and the Wakulla River. The underground waterlines buried three to six therefore, there are no sewer lines in the power lines are typically three-phase or feet deep. Lanark Village uses a vacuum corridor. Overhead power lines exist on the sewer for wastewater management. north curb line along SR 375 that carry Overhead power lines carry power, phone, power, phone, and cable service. and cable on the north side of the roadway on some single pole and some H-frame City of St. Marks structures along US 98/SR 30. Structures are The City of St. Marks has water, high 65 to 85 feet tall and are distributed 250 to pressure gas, sewer, phone, and cable 450 feet apart. underground utilities within the corridor. Mediacom Cablevision Wakulla County Mediacom Cablevision provides DVR, DCT, Wakulla County has a sewer line within the High and Low Speed Internet, and phone corridor from the intersection of US 319/ services through both coaxial and fiber SR 61, and US 98/SR 30 to Ochlockonee

24 Background Conditions Analysis single-phase lines on utility poles owned by of the transmission lines along US 98 are SR 61/SR 30 intersection through Talquin Electric. Poles are typically located located within a 100-foot transmission right- Sopchoppy on SR 375, continuing one mile within four to seven feet of the edge of right- of-way adjacent to FDOT right-of-way. past CR 299 (Curtis Mill Road) on CR 375. of-way with poles spaced approximately 300 Transmission poles are typically 80 to 110 From the same US 319/US 98/ SR 61/SR 30 feet apart. Cable and some phone companies feet tall, and include H-structure type twin intersection, overhead cable runs out to lease space on Talquin’s utility poles for their poles. Distribution poles are typically 35 to Ochlockonee Bay on the west curb line, distribution lines. 45 feet in height, with taller 55-foot poles crossing over to the east, and back in the used to cross roadways, and existing town of Panacea. On US 98 near Wakulla Sprint Florida lighting. High School, overhead cable crosses over Sprint Florida has underground cable within the corridor. Cable continues on the south the corridor right-of-way. Cables are Florida Gas Transmission side of US 98 from Cassora up to Wildwood, generally located at the outermost edge of Florida Gas Transmission provides federally crosses the roadway, and then goes the right-of-way, unless FDOT requests regulated underground gas transmission underground at the golf course. Overhead otherwise. Underground cable exists along lines. One eight-inch transmission line is cable service is provided for the City of St. CR 375 and US 98 with some cable located located in Wakulla County along SR 363, Marks on the west side of SR 363. off-and-on along CR 299. From the east of from the Leon County line down to the City Wakulla High School, underground cable is of St. Marks. The gas line is located within a Acquisitions located on the south side of the roadway. 50-foot transmission easement typically There are no transportation-related Along SR 267, cable is located on either the adjacent to the road right-of-way. An above- acquisitions planned as of the printing of east or west side of the roadway within ground take-off valve is located every ten this CMP for the Byway in Franklin and right-of-way. Sprint Florida has cable mixed miles to help regulate the 1,200 pounds-per- Wakulla Counties. with fiberoptics in their underground lines. square-inch gas pressured line. Gas distribution lines are owned by local gas The Big Bend Scenic Byway Corridor Progress Energy utility companies, and vary depending upon Management Entity will coordinate with Progress Energy provides transmission and the type and age of development. FDOT on any future planned acquisitions to distribution overhead, and underground help facilitate opportunities for road-side Comcast Cable electric power along the corridors in Wakulla improvements to the corridor. County. Transmission lines are located on Comcast provides cable service to residents SR 267 from Wakulla Springs to the St. in Leon and Wakulla counties. Comcast runs Land Use and Zoning Marks Lighthouse, on SR 375 in Sopchoppy, coaxial and fiber optic cable, both on and along US 98. Overhead power lines go overhead lines and below ground. Overhead An analysis of existing land uses and zoning underground one mile from US 98 on CR 59 cable exists on the west side of CR 373 designations was conducted for all parcels (Lighthouse Road) out to the St. Marks (Springhill Road). SR 267 (Bloxham Cuttoff) directly adjacent to the Big Bend Scenic Historic Lighthouse. These lines were put has overhead cable on the south curb line of Byway. This analysis included an evaluation underground at the request of the State of the roadway extending to US 319. Overhead of generalized land use categories and Florida. Three-phase lines are reduced to cable continues on SR 267, just west of specific zoning district designations for single-phase lines on SR 363 near the city Shadeville Road, on the east curb line past individual segments along the Coastal and limits of St. Marks. Overhead power lines on SR 363 for 1 ½ miles, crossing over to the Forest Trail routes. US 98 transfer to an underwater cable west side of the roadway. Additional cable is crossing at Ochlockonee Bay. The majority located overhead from the US 319/US 98/

25 Background Conditions Analysis

Land Use Existing land uses along the Byway is generally Conservation in the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, Conservation in the State Forests, Agriculture in the Apalachicola National Forest, Rural along the undeveloped corridors and Urban in developed communities. Land use is typically commercial within town centers and at major intersections. A summary of existing land uses by corridor segment is listed in Table 2.6. The Franklin County Planning Department uses both Existing and Future Land Use Maps in their Comprehensive Plan. The Wakulla County Planning and Zoning Department uses their current Future Land Use Map for both existing and future land use designations. Franklin and Wakulla County Land Use Maps are located in Appendices C and D.

A description of the land uses along the Big Bend Scenic Byway is helpful in determining what types of development could occur on vacant parcels along the corridor. Local land development and zoning regulations will dictate where buildings are located in relation to the roadway, how tall buildings are, and landscaping requirements, however land uses are designated to support local government comprehensive plan goals and policies. The following list provides a brief summary of the land use classifications for Franklin and Wakulla Counties.

26 Background Conditions Analysis

Wakulla County Land Uses • Residential density not to exceed one (1) • Non-residential uses shall not exceed a Classification Summary unit per twenty (20) acres FAR of 0.15 • Non-residential uses shall not exceed a • Non-residential development shall be Conservation FAR of 0.05 located on lots of at least one (1) acre • Most restrictive land use designation • Residential areas that are wetlands have • Residential development is permitted up • Includes National Forest and National density permitted at one (1) unit per forty to one (1) unit per two (2) acres with Wildlife Refuge, both which are restricted (40) acres central water or one (1) unit per five (5) from development acres without • Very limited public or private development Rural - 1 (Agriculture/Rural Fringe) may be permitted • Conventional agriculture and low-density Urban - 1 (Urban Fringe) • Public recreational uses are permitted residential designation • Provides for higher density development • Limited forestry activities are permitted on • Agriculture and forestry activities are in rural areas which are near urban areas public lands permitted • Residential development is permitted • Residential uses are permitted at very low • Residential development at very low • Commercial development is permitted densities density is permitted • Public uses including schools are • Existing agriculture or new or existing • Public uses including schools are permitted silvirculture activities are permitted permitted • Light industrial and manufacturing uses • Land may not be subdivided • Non-residential uses may to exceed FAR may be permitted subject to review • Residential density may not exceed one of 0.05 • Residential density not to exceed two (2) (1) unit per forty (40) acres • Residential densities: one unit per five (5) units per acre with water/sewer, and one • Non-residential uses shall not exceed a acres on paved roads, one unit per ten (1) unit per acre without floor-area ratio (FAR) of 0.05 (10) acres on unpaved roads • Non-residential development may not • Gross density of subdivisions shall not exceed a FAR of 0.3 Agriculture (Primary Agriculture) exceed one unit to five (5) acres • Commercial development shall be • Addresses large-scale timber industry, • Subdivisions up to or greater than forty permitted only where parcel has access to and/or farming activities on privately (40) acres in area; five (5) acres minimum an arterial or collector road owned property lot size • Forestry and agricultural uses are Urban - 2 (Urban Services) permitted Rural - 2 • Supports urban services area • Residential uses are permitted at low • Provides for development of rural areas • Residential, commercial, and light densities near emerging urban areas industrial uses may be permitted • Public uses including schools are • General agriculture and forestry activities • Agricultural and forestry activities which permitted are permitted produce odors or rely on unrestricted • Areas lying contiguous to Urban Service • Residential development is permitted pesticide use shall be limited near Areas, and/or in private ownership may be • Commercial development is permitted residential uses developed as PUDs to protect sensitive along arterial or collector roads • Public land uses including schools may be areas • Public land uses including schools may be permitted permitted

27 Background Conditions Analysis

• In areas outside the coastal high-hazard – Advancing the efficient use of land and Commercial area, residential is permitted up to a other resources • To provide for the location of commercial density of ten (10) units per acre with – Creating quality communities and jobs activities related to local industry central water/sewer, and one (1) unit per – Minimizing external traffic impacts and • Primarily located in Apalachicola, acre without maximizing internal capture rates Eastpoint, and Carrabelle • Not customarily built-out within less than Commercial (Non-Urban) • Located on transportation corridors a ten (10) year planning time frame adjacent to residential land uses • Addresses larger commercial activities • Mixed-use designation in which suburban • Commercial retail, office, and service uses or exurban residential is the predominant Conservation are permitted use • To provide for the long-term protection • Public land uses including schools are • Agricultural and forestry activities which and management of undeveloped lands permitted produce odors or unrestricted pesticide • Includes national, state, and privately • Non-residential development maximum use shall be limited owned conservation lands FAR of 0.25 with central water/sewer, and • Public land uses, including schools, are • Majority of mainland and barrier islands FAR of 0.15 without permitted are devoted to conservation • Sixteen (16) units per acre maximum Industrial allocated density Incorporated • Reserves land for industrial activities • Total residential development may not • Lands inside the boundaries of the Cities • Manufacturing, processing, warehousing, exceed 75 percent of the overall land area of Carrabelle and Apalachicola and storage activities are permitted • Non-residential development shall be • Municipal land use designations apply • Commercial retail, office and services uses allowed at a maximum FAR of 0.5 Institutional are permitted • Commercial and light industrial use • Includes educational and correctional • Public land uses including schools are limited to thirty-five (35) percent of total facilities permitted land area • Maximum FAR of 0.4 with central water/ • Overall non-residential use may not Recreational sewer; FAR 0.15 where not available exceed fifty (50) percent of total land area • To protect the natural systems of the county for resource-based recreational Sustainable Community activities • Promotes the creation of self-contained Franklin County Land Use • Includes parks and open spaces new communities in Wakulla County Descriptions • Furthers six broad principles of Agriculture Residential sustainability: • To preserve threatened agricultural land • Most residential land uses are in – Restoring key ecosystems from urban development incorporated cities of Apalachicola and – Achieving a more clean, healthy • Consists primarily of agriculture, Carrabelle, and the communities of environment aquaculture and silviculture Eastpoint, Lanark Village, Alligator Point, – Limiting urban sprawl and St. George Island – Protecting wildlife and natural areas • Second largest land use in Franklin County

28 Background Conditions Analysis

Transportation, Communications and Utilities • Majority of this land use is for airstrips • Includes utility and communication facilities

Zoning Zoning designations identify allowable uses, setback requirements, building heights and maximum densities for private parcels along the corridor. Zoning along the Byway directly supports and should be consistent with land use designations. Descriptions of the corridor’s zoning districts are described in Table 2.7 and Table 2.8. Zoning along the Byway is typically a category of Agriculture or Residential. As the Byway passes through more urban and developed communities, the zoning is typically Industrial, Commercial, and higher density Residential. A description of the existing zoning designations along the Byway is described in Table 2.9. Both the Franklin and Wakulla County Planning Departments only have original copies of their zoning maps located at their county offices in Apalachicola and Crawfordville, respectively.

29 Background Conditions Analysis

30 Background Conditions Analysis

Signage The type and placement of signs within the Supplemental Regulations to Wakulla corridor right-of-way is regulated by the County Code, Section 6-18. Wakulla County The Big Bend Scenic Byway has signage Florida Department of Transportation and Sign Regulations, contain relevant typical of a corridor with large tract of rural Chapter 479 of the Florida Statutes. Franklin information on signs for Wakulla County. undeveloped areas and public lands, County provides an ordinance in Section 450 These regulations contain multiple and combined with small towns and fishing Franklin County Zoning Code that describes lengthy definitions, as well as this general villages. Highway signs are typically the the size, location, and type of advertising statement in Section 6-18 (b): only visible signs in rural areas with and billboards allowed outside of public concentrations of these signs near major “It is the purpose, and intent of this right of way on county and local roads. On- section to regulate the construction, intersections. Private signs, on-site signs, or premise (point-of-sale) and off-premise signs ‘point-of-sale’ signs are located adjacent to use, and placement of signage on are allowed in commercial districts as all land within the unincorporated the corridor on commercial specified in the zoning parcels in more urban areas of Wakulla County, Florida. code. Temporary real These provisions may also be areas. Some wayfinding estate and rental signs signs exist along the route enforced in an incorporated city are permitted in any within the County if the affected for major public tourist district, but must attractions such as wildlife city, and County enter into an comply with specific interlocal agreement to provide refuges, state parks, as well size, location, and as county and city public such services. It is the County’s duration standards. intent that the provisions of these spaces. The communities of Certain signs may be the Big Bend Scenic Byway sign regulations be consistent with permitted in any Chapter 479, Florida Statutes, the currently do not have district only with the formal wayfinding signs for Florida laws regulating outdoor approval of a advertising. Further, the County support facilities such as variance by accommodations and dining, nor do finds that the regulation of signage the County is in the best interests of Wakulla they have consistent signage for Board of publicly accessible private County, adds to the protection of Adjustment. the character of a community, and resources. Consistent Byway themed Franklin signs and formal wayfinding are promotes the health, safety, welfare, County visual integrity, economic viability, identified in the Big Bend Scenic currently Byway Vision, Goals, Objectives, and property values of the does not have community at large.” Strategies and Action Plan to countywide improve resource recognition, traffic directional Off-premises signs are permitted in the circulation, and to enhance the signs other following land use designations as identified scenic nature of the corridor. than county road signs. All other directional in the County Comprehensive Plan Future A description of the regulatory framework for signs along the proposed Byway are U.S. Land Use Map: Highway and State Highway directional signage along the Big Bend Scenic Byway • Commercial signs. corridor is provided in the section below. • Industrial

31 Background Conditions Analysis • Urban In 1991, Section 1046(c) of the Intermodal As mentioned in the Signage sub-section • Any designation which allows Surface Transportation Equity Act (ISTEA) above, if a road system is not on the commercial or industrial activities. added a new subsection (s) to 23 United National Highway System or State Highway States Code (USC) 131 that precludes System and is maintained and controlled On-premise signs are regulated by the sign outdoor advertising on designated scenic solely by a local jurisdiction, the road system ordinance policies within the Wakulla highways/byways. Once a corridor has been is not controlled for outdoor advertising County Code (Sec. 6-18) and the Wakulla designated, the Florida Department of purposes by FDOT. In addition, if the sign is County Zoning Ordinance. The codes set Transportation Outdoor Advertising Office is an on-premise sign, it is not controlled by regulations for the size, location, height, and precluded from issuing FDOT. In these cases, local sign type of on-premise signs allowed in each new outdoor advertising ordinances would be the land use designation. permits within the governing authority. control zone of the Billboards Interstate, and National A billboard inventory for the Byway was conducted on August Any billboard that is on the National Highway Systems, the Federal Aid Primary 19-20, 2004. Billboards were ‘shot’ Highway System, Federal Aid Primary with Global Positioning System System or State Highway System as of System, and any State Highway System along (GPS) surveying equipment and June 1, 1991, is controlled by the State for inventoried with a digital camera. outdoor advertising purposes. The only the corridor. A local government may have The billboard inventory is restriction a Florida Scenic Highway illustrated in Figure 2.5. A list of designation will place on a corridor is the an ordinance that is stricter than State law, the billboards inventoried in the provision of no new billboard permits field and any recent permits adjacent to designated state roads within the but such ordinance would not preclude the approved, have been verified corridor limits. In summary, existing through the FDOT Outdoor billboards will remain along the corridor as State from issuing an outdoor advertising Advertising Office. Some of these long as they are in conformance with local locations may include billboards and state outdoor advertising regulations; permit if the permit application meets all of that are permitted, but have been however, no new billboards will be permitted removed or have not been along designated state roads. Any existing the requirements of State law. constructed to date. Even though a billboard billboard permits are protected under law may not be constructed a billboard permit and their removal would require monetary The control area for outdoor advertising may exist for the location. Billboards are compensation based on current and purposes is 660 feet or less from the nearest typically located at or near major potential market value. The Vision and edge of the right of way of any portion of the intersections, and in urban areas. Goals of the Big Bend Scenic Byway are State Highway System, interstate, or supported by an Action Plan item that federal-aid primary system and beyond 660 addresses the removal of non-conforming feet of the nearest edge of the right of way of billboards and signs along the corridor. any portion of the State Highway System, This section outlines the regulatory interstate, or federal-aid primary system framework for billboards along the Big Bend outside an urban area (Chapter 479.01(4), Scenic Byway. Florida Statute).

32 Background Conditions Analysis

Figure 2.5: Billboard Locations

33 Background Conditions Analysis

Safety Issues to connect Sopchoppy and Ochlockonee intersections, and high speed limits. In River State Park to the Gulf of Mexico. general, these corridors indirectly encourage Franklin County is currently working on the vehicles to travel at high speeds. installation of more sidewalks in downtown Apalachicola and extending the St. George Crash data for 1999 through 2003 from the Island bike path network. The City of FDOT Crash Data and Records Office was Carrabelle has included a city-wide the most recent data available at the time of Pathways Plan in its current Comprehensive the safety analysis. County roads and local Plan Update. The Apalachicola National streets along the Byway are considered “off- Forest has been working with local system roadways (O/S)” and no crash data governments to develop the multi-purpose are available for those corridors. Three of the paved G, F & A Trail that will ultimately five corridors evaluated had a decrease in provide bicycle and pedestrian access from the number of collisions from 1999 to 2003. Tallahassee to Sopchoppy and Carrabelle. The two corridors that had an increase in When complete, these types of projects will crashes, SR 300 (from US 98 to St. George help improve safety and mobility issues for Island) and SR 377 (Sopchoppy Highway), Significant non-vehicular traffic (bicycle and bicyclists and pedestrians, and help promote had less than six additional crashes in 2003 pedestrian) along the proposed Byway is area tourism. compared to the 1999 figure. limited to the Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad Trail, St. George Island and higher Safety issues for vehicle traffic along the Big US 98 from the City of Apalachicola to the density urban areas. These areas are Bend Scenic Byway include high accident, City of Carrabelle, had the highest rate of conducive to day-to-day walking or injury and/or fatality rates along injuries per mile. The highest rate of bicycling. The safety issues for these user undeveloped rural corridors with very fatalities per mile occurred on SR 377 types include the speed of vehicular traffic, straight roadway alignments. The roadway (Sopchoppy Highway). There were two the level of vehicular traffic volumes and the characteristics of these corridors are fatalities on each of the two corridors from absence of traffic control devises throughout conducive to good sight-distance, few 1999 to 2003, however US 98 has four to six the corridor, such as traffic signals with times the number of traffic volume as crosswalks. While there are miles of paved SR 377 (see sub-section G Traffic Volumes shoulders along the proposed Byway and User Types). A complete breakdown of corridor, bicycle use is limited to urban areas crash data for Byway corridors in Franklin due in part to the length and characteristics County is illustrated in Table 2.10 of rural roadways in the area. Support facilities, such as stores and rest areas Crash data for 1999 through 2003 were typically need to be in convenient locations compiled from the FDOT Crash Data and to encourage bicycle use. Records Office. There was a 50 percent-67 percent increase in collisions along US 98 In general, pedestrian safety issues include (Coastal Highway) from 1999 to 2003. There a lack of sidewalks and signalized was an overall decrease in collisions along crosswalks. Wakulla County has a small SR 377/US 319 and SR 267 during the same network of planned paved shared-use paths years. Port Leon Drive (SR 363), which

34 Background Conditions Analysis connects US 98 with the City of St. Marks Traffic Volumes and User Types Highway), some rush-hour traffic occurs on the Gulf, experienced no change in along all portions of the corridor. number of collisions during the five-year Wakulla County is largely a bedroom study period. community for Leon County, and an In addition, the Panacea/Medart section of estimated 7,000 residents work in the corridor experiences school-related The segment of US 98 from US 319 Tallahassee. Though most of this commuter traffic, as three schools are located along (Crawfordville Highway) to the eastern traffic occurs on US 319 north through this section of the corridor. Because of a lack gateway of the Byway near CR 59 had the Crawfordville, and on CR 363 (Woodville of bike lanes and sidewalks along the highest number of fatalities (7) during the last five years. The highest number of injuries (187) occurred on SR 267 during that same time period. Although SR 363 had no increase in collisions from 1999 to 2003, this short segment has the highest ratio of injuries and fatalities per mile along the Byway. The second highest ratio of injuries and fatalities per mile occurred on SR 267. A complete breakdown of crash data for Byway corridors in Wakulla County is illustrated in Table 2.11.

Non-vehicular (bicycle and pedestrian) traffic along the proposed Byway is limited. The safety issues for these user types include the speed of vehicular traffic, the level of vehicular traffic volumes, and the absence of traffic control devices throughout the corridor.

35 Background Conditions Analysis

corridor, pedestrian and bicycle activity is characteristics of motorists are easily across the corridor. The traffic characteristics very light compared to vehicular usage. described using existing traffic volumes. of motorists are easily described using Bicyclists, walkers, joggers, skaters and existing traffic volumes. The Florida children in strollers can be found on the The users of the roadway corridor include Department of Transportation collects traffic Tallahassee–St. Marks Historic Railroad daily commuters to Leon County, users with data at Traffic Monitoring Stations State Park Trail which extends 16 miles from an origin or destination within the corridor, throughout the State. The State has two the City of St. Marks at the Gulf coast north and visitors. As previously stated, there is types of monitoring stations: portable and to Tallahassee in Leon County. In general, little pedestrian or bicycle activity along or telemetered. Portable monitoring stations these types of non- vehicular users are mostly found in urban areas and within the numerous recreation areas along the proposed Byway corridor throughout the county such as Ochlockonee River State Park, Wakulla Springs State Park, and Mashes Sands County Park, for example.

The users of the roadway include local commuter traffic and visitor traffic. Apalachicola has significant pedestrian traffic in its historic downtown. Sidewalks exist on all downtown streets and low traffic volumes in adjacent neighborhoods are conducive to walking and bicycling. St. George Island has a paved bicycle path adjacent to the corridor on CR 300 which is used by bicyclists, walkers, roller bladers, and families with strollers. The traffic

36 Background Conditions Analysis consist of a set of tubes that are set across a majority of Franklin County residents are roadway once or twice a year, and then employed locally in the seafood industry, removed. Telemetered monitoring stations vacation rental market, and boat charter consist of permanent traffic counting businesses. According to the 2000 U.S. devices, such as a loop detector in the Census, approximately 20 percent of the pavement. homes in Franklin County are rentals. Many of those residences in Franklin County are Overall traffic volumes in Franklin County vacation or second homes and generate vary from 2,000 vehicles per day on US 98/ local tourist traffic. SR 30 across St. James Island to 12,000 vehicles per day on Market Street in The following roadways within the Scenic Apalachicola. Traffic volumes on the Wakulla Byway corridor are identified as Evacuation County corridors vary from 300 vehicles per Routes: day on CR 59 (Lighthouse Road) to 9,400 • US 98 (Coastal Highway) from vehicles per day on US 319/US 98/SR 61/ Apalachicola north through Panacea and SR 30 (Crawfordville Highway). Existing Medart to the US 319/SR 377 intersection traffic volumes are illustrated by roadway • SR 300 (Franklin Boulevard) from CR 300 location in Figure 2.3. to US 98 FDOT Average Annual Daily Traffic (AADT) • SR 65 (James Gadsen Highway) from counts from a five-year period were used for US 98 to the Liberty County line five-year, and ten-year projections. See Table • US 319 (Sopchoppy Highway) from US 98 2.12 and Table 2.13 for historical, existing, north past Sopchoppy and Medart to the and projected traffic volumes, and US 98/SR 30 intersection, north through corresponding level of service for the Crawfordville to the Leon County Line Franklin and Wakulla County corridors, • SR 267 (Bloxham Cutoff) from Wakulla respectively. Planned developments along Springs to the CR 373 (Springhill Road) the corridor will increase area traffic intersection, and north to the Leon County volumes over time and should be Line reevaluated when the CME develops the • CR 300 (East Gorrie Drive) from State Annual Report for the Big Bend Scenic Park boundary to SR 300 Byway each year.

US 98, along the coast, is the main transportation route in Franklin County. SR 65 and CR 67 provide the only alternate north/south routes in the county. SR 300 provides access to St. George Island and CR 370 accesses Alligator Point from US 98 in the eastern portion of the county. A

37 Background Conditions Analysis Figure 2.6: Traffic Volumes

38 Background Conditions Analysis

39 Background Conditions Analysis

40 Background Conditions Analysis Levels of Service or undeveloped, whether turning bays are Transportation Planning present at major intersections, the number of Based on the data acquired from FDOT, travel lanes, and whether there is an The transportation planning issues fifteen of the sixteen corridor segments uninterrupted flow of traffic or traffic control addressed in the Vision and supporting operate adequately at or better than the devices such as stop signs or signals. The Action Plan primarily deal with intersection adopted level of service (LOS) standards. thresholds for LOS standards for the safety, bicycle and pedestrian access, One two-mile corridor, the US 319/US 98/ Franklin and Wakulla corridors are detailed wildlife safety, and alternative transportation SR 61/SR 30 (Crawfordville Highway) in Table 2.14 and Table 2.15, respectively. All for tourism. Responsibility for transportation corridor in Medart, Wakulla County, LOS standards are based on applicable planning along the scenic highway corridor operates at a substandard level of service. comprehensive plan policies. is divided between the Florida Department Existing LOS is illustrated by roadway of Transportation (FDOT), the City of location in Figure 2.7.

The Action Plan encourages the use of separate or parallel facilities in areas of LOS deficiencies. Addressing roadway LOS deficiencies is not the responsibility of the Big Bend Scenic Byway CAG or CME. However, the CME will coordinate with FDOT, the Capital Region Transportation Planning Agency, and local governments on solutions to address LOS deficiencies that are consistent with the Goals and Vision of the Byway.

Future traffic volumes and LOS standards were developed using the methodology stated in Sub- section G Traffic Volumes and User Types of this chapter. Considerations for LOS include: whether the corridor is rural or urban, developed

41 Background Conditions Analysis Figure 2.7: LOS

42 Background Conditions Analysis

Sopchoppy, the City of St. Marks, Wakulla Apalachee Regional Planning Council The framework for transportation planning County, the City of Apalachicola, the City of (ARPC). The ARPC has a Strategic Regional along the corridor includes: Carrabelle, Franklin County, and the Capital Policy Plan (1996) that identifies regional • FDOT’s State Long-Range Transportation Region Transportation Planning Agency. goals, policies, and implementation Plan – 2025 Florida Transportation Plan Long-range planning and technical strategies within the Regional Transportation assistance is also conducted by the Element of the plan.

43 Background Conditions Analysis

• FDOT District Three Environmental RTA Mission Statement (As stated on RTA projects into a comprehensive Master Management, Planning and Traffic website – http://www.nwftca.com/): Corridor Transportation Improvement Plan. Operations Offices Phase One (Planning) Upon the successful accomplishment of this • Northwest Florida Transportation Corridor To develop and adopt a Master Corridor Authority Phase One Planning Mission, a Phase Two Transportation Improvement Plan, by July Implementation Mission Statement will be • Local Government Comprehensive Plan, 1, 2007, for “the US 98 Corridor System” – developed and adopted by the RTA for Transportation or Traffic Elements US 98 and all necessary feeder roads, construction, operation, and maintenance of • County Community Traffic Safety Teams reliever roads, connector roads, bypasses, the Master Corridor Transportation • Local Government Public Works approaches, bridges, avenues of access, Improvement Plan. Departments hurricane evacuation routes, and any and all appurtenant facilities to facilitate The Big Bend Scenic Byway has a number In August 2005, the Florida Legislature maximum usage of and access to all of existing and planned shared-use paths created The Northwest Florida existing, planned, and future either intersecting or adjacent to the Transportation Corridor Authority (RTA) for transportation improvements within the proposed Byway (see Figure 2.8). The GF&A the primary purpose of improving mobility US 98 Corridor through Escambia, Santa Rail Trail is a 5.9 mile shared-use path throughout the US 98 corridor in Northwest Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Bay, Gulf, planned to eventually provide a connection Florida. Improvements include Franklin and Wakulla Counties. The goals from the City of Tallahassee through the City enhancement of traveler safety, and objectives of the RTA in the of Sopchoppy ending at Ochlockonee River identification and development/ development of this Master Plan are to State Park. The trail follows an abandoned enhancement of hurricane evacuation optimize mobility, traffic safety, hurricane rail line corridor for most of its planned routes, promotion of economic development evacuation routes, economic development length. One segment of the paved along the corridor, and implementation of potential, and community enhancement recreational path in Wakulla County is transportation projects to alleviate current or throughout the US 98 Corridor System. currently in the Project Development and anticipated traffic congestion. The US 98 The RTA shall be innovative and creative Environment (PD&E) phase from the corridor means U.S. Highway 98 and any in its transportation solutions and Historic Railroad Depot in the City of feeder roads, reliever roads, connector roads, financing, and shall coordinate for Sopchoppy with an alignment adjacent to bridges, and other transportation cohesion and cost savings, with all CR 299 (Curtis Mill Road) to Ochlockonee appurtenances, existing or constructed in concerned governmental agencies, River State Park. When this segment has the future, that support U.S. Highway 98 in organizations, boards, etc. (ie, Federal, been constructed, the path will provide Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, State (FDOT), & Local Governments, visitors an alternative route for viewing the Bay, Gulf, Franklin and Wakulla Counties TPO’s, Transportation Authorities), the significant intrinsic resources along the (excerpt from US 98 Corridor 2007 Legislative private sector (business community) and Byway. Priorities). the public, to assemble all existing related transportation projects and information The Ochlockonee Bay Trail is a proposed and not to impede, but to enhance and 11.7 mile shared-use path that will provide a optimize, all existing and planned paved recreational path from the City of transportation projects within the US 98 Sopchoppy to the Gulf of Mexico with an Corridor System, via coordination with, alignment adjacent to CR 372 (Surf Road) and adoption of, said transportation through a portion of the St. Marks National

44 Background Conditions Analysis

Wildlife Refuge that borders Surf Road. The The City of Sopchoppy also has sidewalk the planning tool show how County citizens path will intersect the proposed Byway at improvements planned for its area would like to see their communities grow in the US 98 bridge over the Ochlockonee Bay. downtown. the future and their preferred role in The path will provide a ‘City to Sea’ route regional development. For example, the from Sopchoppy through the Refuge and Wakulla County and Franklin County have Town of Panacea has been designated a will terminate near existing and planned both completed county-wide visioning Waterfronts Florida Community, and is in vacation condominium units along exercises with results that are consistent the process of a volunteer effort to increase Ochlockonee Bay. A 7.1 mile segment of the with the Vision for the Big Bend Scenic the community’s walkability, among other path is planned for construction in 2006. Byway (see Chapter 4 Vision). The results of planning initiatives.

45

Background Conditions Analysis

Roadway Improvements facilities. The historic Railroad Depot in development of a GF&A Trail trailhead at the Sopchoppy has funding programmed for Depot will position the City of Sopchoppy as The FDOT District Three Work Program for rehabilitation. Improvements to the historic a Byway hub for nature- and heritage-based 2005-2010 outlines roadway, bridge, bike building in conjunction with the tourism. Currently, no planned roadway path, and sidewalk projects on or near the improvements will negatively impact proposed Byway. These the proposed Byway or its intrinsic projects will have a positive resources. effect on the proposed Byway by providing additional A summary of facility improvements connectivity for non- included in the work program and vehicular users and located along the Byway are listed in improving existing roadway Table 2.16 below. facilities. The adopted FDOT Work Program includes annual support for the Franklin County Transportation Disadvantaged Program, rural transit, and improvements to the Apalachicola Municipal and Carrabelle-Thompson Airports. Sidewalk improvements along Market Street and Water Street will improve pedestrian connectivity from downtown Apalachicola to the western Byway gateway at the Scipio Creek Marina. The proposed 2.43-mile extension of the existing bike path on St. George Island will also increase non-vehicular user types on the island. The additional shared-use path will provide a much needed connection between the commercial/beach rental areas of St. George and the entrance of the State Park.

The Work Program projects in Wakulla County will have a positive effect on the proposed Byway by providing additional connectivity for non- vehicular users and improving existing

49 Background Conditions Analysis

Social and Economic Conditions explore miles of uncrowded pristine thought to serve some of the best seafood in beaches, protected shallow bays, acres of the country. Charter fishing and tourism are The Big Bend Scenic Byway region includes National and State forests, and enjoy also prominent throughout the community. distinct physical environments along the excellent fresh and saltwater fishing. Though the seafood industry is dominant Coastal and Forest Trails. The physical economically throughout the area, farming environments of the Byway are directly Bathed in southern hospitality, this area and retail sales also generate income for linked to the conditions of local economies, holds historical significance, particularly County residents. There is no reported resources, and history. These conditions within the City of Apalachicola, once the manufacturing in Franklin County. help tell the Big Bend Scenic Byway Story third largest port on the Gulf of Mexico. In (see Chapter 6 Story). The following section Apalachicola, there are over 200 historic Although Franklin County is not as fast- provides a socio-economic context for the homes and buildings listed on the National growing as its neighbor county along the Intrinsic Resource Assessment (see Chapter Register, including the historic Orman Byway (see Table 2.17), it is thought that 3 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and House Museum and the John Gorrie State future new development will play a Designation Criteria). The people, jobs, and Museum. In the City’s historic district, many prominent part in its eventual growth. For local resources are the foundation of the Big of the older homes and buildings date back example, a large portion of the Eastpoint Bend Scenic Byway. to the 1830s. During the County’s early waterfront has recently been purchased for history, shipping cotton and lumber mills redevelopment, and Franklin County now Along the Coastal Trail West, the Big Bend generated the economic development of this finds itself at a crossroads as to whether or Scenic Byway provides views of area. By the end of the 19th century, oyster not to rezone the waterfront in order to allow Apalachicola Bay, Ochlockonee Bay and harvesting and seafood became important other uses of the area, while ensuring the River, St. George Island sand dunes and industries. Today, over 90 percent of protection of the existing seafood industry, shores, historic buildings, authentic oyster Florida’s oysters are harvested in the County which has suffered in recent years due to and seafood houses, Bryant Patton and John from more than 7,000 acres of public and falling seafood prices, increasing land Gorrie Bridges, and more. The corridor private oyster bars in Apalachicola Bay. Over values, and damage from hurricanes. passes through a variety of significant 1,000 people are employed by the oyster intrinsic resources from historic towns and industry in Franklin County. Commercial Only a short drive from the State Capitol in quaint fishing villages to expansive longleaf fishermen annually bring in over $11 million Tallahassee, Wakulla remains literally a pine and hardwood hammocks and worth of shrimp, blue crab, and finfish to sportsman’s and tourist’s paradise, with untouched beaches. County docks, and the area’s restaurants are approximately 70 percent of its land and more than 80 Known as Florida’s Forgotten Coast, percent of its Franklin County enjoys some of coastline in Florida’s most beautiful, well- some kind of preserved natural and cultural protected status. resources. It is located in Florida’s Home to the northwestern Panhandle world-class St. approximately 80 miles southwest of Marks National the state capitol, Tallahassee. The Wildlife Refuge maritime culture is dominant and the throughout the region. One can internationally

50 Background Conditions Analysis known Wakulla Springs State Park, Wakulla is now one of only six Florida counties that capita income had risen to $25,153. In fact, County offers its residents and visitors have average commuting times of 31-36 in Dr. Sliger’s view, on the basis of these outstanding opportunities for recreation, minutes, while the state average is only 26 factors and several others, Wakulla County is fishing, birding, hiking, and hunting in the minutes. Reluctantly, Wakulla seems to be prospering while “most of rural America is Apalachicola National Forest, as well as its moving to the status of a “bedroom doing poorly.” extensive state forests, parks, marshlands, community” for Leon County and rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. The Tallahassee (55 percent of those counted as Tourism and User Facilities county’s public school system enjoys employed in Wakulla County actually work Increasingly, statistics prove that tourism recognition statewide for its excellence, and outside of Wakulla, and spend much of their bolsters employment, injects “imported” Wakulla students consistently rank above income there as well). funds into local economies, spreads benefits the state average in ACT and SAT scores. Meanwhile, Wakulla County real estate to rural areas, encourages the development Like many other areas in Florida, Wakulla values are soaring, especially along the of resources, and promotes infrastructure County is in the midst of controversy about Coastal Trail. And unemployment remains at projects. It is the largest sector in world growth. As more and more people, a comparatively low level of 3.8 percent, economies, and the centerpiece of Florida’s especially from the Tallahassee area, decide well under the national average as well as economy. Tourism represented over $49 that “Wakulla County is the natural place to the statewide average of 5.3 percent (U.S. billion, or 20 percent of the state’s total be,” the county is not only growing but, Census). However, these averages do not tell taxable sales, from 1999-2000, and far more inevitably, changing. Its population grew 61 the full story. Wakulla County still contains than any other single source. In 2002, percent over the decade from 1990-2000, pockets of severe poverty, particularly Franklin and Wakulla Counties had over $30 rising from 14,380 to 22,863, making among families whose livelihoods have been million in sales for accommodation and food Wakulla County the fourth fastest-growing impacted by reduced timber sales on public sales (Florida Statistical Abstract 2005 – county in the nation during that period. And lands and net restrictions on mullet fishing. BEBR). According to 2005 data from the the trend goes on: the University of Florida Job training programs have failed to State of Florida, Franklin County has 4 has projected that Wakulla County will produce high-paying jobs. continue to be one of the fastest-growing counties in Florida over the next 30 years, Nevertheless, U.S. Census with an estimated growth rate of 91 percent reports have confirmed that by the year 2030. The county’s population is Wakulla County’s growth in now estimated to be close to 25,000, and, at median per capita income from projected rates, could reach 43,655 by 2030. 1989-1999 ranked in the top ten in Florida, with a jump of over 48 Wakulla County is struggling to cope with percent to $17,678. That was divided views over where to grow and how good news, but still well below to grow, impact fees, road construction, the state average of $21,557. In planning, and zoning regulations, 2002, however, according to the permitting of large new developments, research of Dr. Bernard Sliger, provision of education, utilities, and other former Florida State University services, and protection of environmental President and distinguished and natural resource values. Wakulla County economist, Wakulla County’s per

51 Background Conditions Analysis

hotels, 12 motels and 48 restaurants, and Lighthouse. Other recreational activities (28 percent were from Florida). But tourists Wakulla County has 1 hotel, 3 motels, and include the St. James Bay Golf Course and clearly like what they see: over 96 percent of 36 restaurants. Putt-N-Fuss Fun Park. the repeat visitors had made more than one visit in the past five years. One key finding from this background Guided tours are offered by Apalachicola information is the Coastal Trail East segment Sailing Adventures, Apalachicola Tours, B-9 The average party size of tourist groups was of the Big Bend Scenic Byway needs Adventures Tours & Charter Fishing, 3.17 persons, and 92 percent traveled by additional accommodations to keep tourists Backwater Guide Service, Bay & Bayou auto. Out-of-state visitors said that while in in the area for longer periods of time. The Excursions, Book Me Charter, Journeys of Wakulla County there was “plenty to do” (90 Vision, Goals, and Action Plan support this St. George Island, Robinson Brothers Guide percent), and 97 percent found it “a good finding. Service, Seahorse Water Safaris, and value for the money spent.” 85 percent said WindCatcher Sailing Charters. it was “an ideal vacation destination for the The Franklin County portion of the Big Bend family.” 100 percent found Wakulla to be Scenic Byway offers a variety of activities, Visitor Centers are provided at St. Vincent very welcoming to tourists and visitors. 99 attractions, and scenery for tourists. From National Wildlife Refuge and in the City of percent said it was “a good place to get antique shopping to eating fresh seafood in Apalachicola. Lafayette Park supplies some peace and quiet,” and 84 percent a four-star restaurant, this area can provide interpretive signage for visitors. Lodging is reported that it was so enjoyable that they satisfaction for everyone. This portion of the available through rentals, hotels, bed and would definitely return. corridor has opportunities for visitors to breakfasts, cabins, and camping. retreat to uncrowded beaches, watch wildlife 62 percent of out-of-state visitors said they and birds, hike and bike, boat, fish, hunt, Wakulla County’s tourism-related business chose Wakulla County for rest and and photograph wildflowers. income for 2002 was $23,541,220 (sources). relaxation. Main activities were varied: 22 Approximately 424 residents within Wakulla percent went to the beach, 59 percent Some of the natural attractions include the County are employed in the tourism sector fished, 52 percent visited Wakulla Springs Apalachicola National Forest, Tate’s Hell (lodging, restaurants, guide services, parks, State Park, 23 percent birded, 28 percent State Forest, Apalachicola River Wildlife and recreation, and stores). In 2002, over 67,453 enjoyed a sightseeing water cruise, 19 Environmental Area, Apalachicola National tourists stopped by the St. Marks National percent visited the St. Marks National Estuarine Research Reserve, St. Vincent Wildlife Refuge Visitor’s Center (up from 43 Wildlife Refuge, 51 percent dined out, and National Wildlife Refuge, Bald Point State percent from 1999), and over 193,245 17 percent did general sightseeing. Park, Cape St. George State Reserve, and St. tourists traveled CR 59 (Lighthouse Road) Seasonal visitation was fairly even (88 George Island State Park. through the Refuge to its terminus at the St. percent summer, 58 percent fall, 65 percent Marks Lighthouse (up 2 percent from 1999). winter, 75 percent spring). Historic sites and museums are other popular attractions for tourists. These Mid-Florida Marketing & Research, Inc. The occupation of the primary wage earner include Apalachicola Historic District, conducted baseline data research in Wakulla of out-of-state visitors’ households was 23 Battery Park and the City Marina, Camp County from April 2002 to March 2003, percent professional/managerial/self- Gordon Johnston Museum, Chestnut Street providing new insights into the composition employed, 34 percent mid-range white Cemetery, Dixie Theatre, Fort Gadsden and interests of tourists visiting the county. collar, 25 percent retired. The average Historic Site, John Gorrie State Museum, The results of the data show 53 percent of household income before taxes was between Orman House and Cape St. George tourists were first-time, out-of-state visitors $50,000 and $55,000. The average age of

52 Background Conditions Analysis visitors surveyed was 52 years old, and 90 • Sweet Magnolia B&B in St. Marks River State Park, Myron B. Hodge City Park percent were married. • Panacea Motel in Sopchoppy, Panacea RV Park in Panacea, • The Landings Restaurant and Motel in Holiday Park and Campground in In addition, the Wakulla County Tourist Panacea Ochlockonee Bay, Newport Recreation Area Development Council conducted two media County Park, and designated areas in the familiarization tours (FAM Tours) during • Shell Island Fish Camp & Marina in St. Marks Apalachicola National Forest. In Franklin 2001-2002, resulting in increased media County, camping is available at Indian Pass • The Inn at Wildwood coverage and high praise for the county’s Campground and Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. attractions. Ron Brooks, Internet columnist, George Island State Park. wrote: “Wakulla County might just be the Franklin County best hidden treasure Florida has to offer.” • Apalachicola River Inn Other Related Programs Other comments included: “Good luck in • Apalachicola Riverfront Vacation Home promoting Wakulla, and be sure to control • Bay City Lodge The Big Bend Scenic Byway is fortunate to be able to build upon the momentum the growth that’s coming your way. I’d hate • Best Western created by other resource and locally-based to see the county change too much,” and • Breakaway Marina & Motel “I’ve often driven through Wakulla en route programs. The corridor has been able to • Bryant House Bed & Breakfast to other places. Now I realize there’s so combine and unite many elements of related much to do right there.” • Buccaneer Inn programs into a comprehensive Corridor • Cape San Blas Inn Management Plan. For a comprehensive Wakulla County offers a range of • Coombs House Inn listing of Other Related Programs for the Big accommodations, from primitive campsites • The Consulate Bend Scenic Byway, see Chapter 10 to cozy lodges and motels. However, most of • Gibson Inn Protection Techniques. these facilities are modest in size, and date • Harbor House from the 1950s or earlier. A new Best Western Motel is scheduled for completion • House of Tartts by 2006-07 on US 98/SR 30. The Inn at • Inn at Resort Village Wildwood, a certified Green Lodge located • Old Carrabelle Hotel adjacent to the Wildwood Country Club, is • Old Saltworks Cabins now in full operation. A lodge in Panacea, • Pelican Inn modeled after the old Mineral Springs • Rancho Inn Lodge, is being planned. As they are • Sportsman’s Lodge completed, these facilities will update and • Raney Guest Cottage expand the traveling public’s inventory of accommodation choices along the Byway. • St. George Inn • Turtle Beach Inn Existing accommodations along the corridor • Wind-de-Mer Guest House include: • Witherspoon Inn

Wakulla County In Wakulla County, camping is • Wakulla Springs State Park and Lodge available at the Ochlockonee

53 Chapter 3:

Designation Criteria

UC#1 – Resource Visibility

UC#2 – Tells a Story

UC#3 – Public Roadway

UC#4 – Exceptional/Significant/ Distinctive Features

UC#5 – Corridor Length/Access

UC#6 – Quality/Continuity of Resources

UC#7 – CAG

UC#8 – CPP

UC#9 – Local Support

UC#10 – CMP/CME

Intrinsic Resource Assessment

Assessment Summary

Archeological Assessment

Natural Community Assessment

Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

This chapter provides documentation of how section of this chapter, Intrinsic Resource phase, some significant elements of the landscape Assessment, summarizes the findings of the 111 were contribute to the scenic or heritage nature of Designation Criteria. ranked as the Big Bend Scenic Byway in Franklin and being of Wakulla Counties. The Designation Criteria priority and Intrinsic Resource Assessment is based Designation Criteria interest. on ten Universal and Resource Specific The following section describes the ten Examples of Criteria (Designation Criteria) that all criteria and provides a reference where those not proposed State Scenic Highway corridors these criteria are addressed in the Eligibility included in must meet. These criteria establish the Application. the priority list are: small cemeteries, homes standard requirements of the Florida Scenic not in historic districts or on the national Highway Program. This chapter documents: Universal Criterion #1 - Resource(s) registry, sites with no facilities, sites too far • Visibility of the intrinsic resources from must be visible from the roadway. off the route, archaeological sites not open to the public, sites of minimal interest, etc. the roadway During the Designation process, the Wakulla • How the resources fulfill the ten and Franklin Corridor Advocacy Groups As the charts below indicate, 77% of the Designation Criteria (CAGs) divided their sections of the corridor intrinsic resources of the Big Bend Scenic • Summary of Exceptional Byway Features into two distinct routes—the Coastal Trail Byway are in the corridor’s viewshed. Sixty • Summary of Significant Byway Features and Forest Trail—and prioritized resources resources were identified on the Coastal • Summary of Distinctive Byway Features along both. Of the 233 resources first Trail and fifty-one on the Forest Trail. • Summary of Qualifying Resources by Type identified by the CAGs during the Eligibility (Natural, Scenic, Recreational, Historic, Cultural, and Archeological) • Continuity of Resources – Virtual Byway Tour

The summaries of Byway features, intrinsic resource maps (see Figures 3.1 – 3.9) and abundance of Byway photographs illustrate how the Big Bend Scenic Byway corridor fulfills the Designation Criteria for State Scenic Highway Designation. The second

55 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

The candidate Byway Universal Criterion #2 - discovered at has an abundance of The corridor must ‘tell a historic ports resources along the where brick proposed route (see story’ that relates to its warehouses the Intrinsic Resource intrinsic resource(s). once stood Assessment for a sentinel over The Big Bend Scenic Byway complete listing and bustling tells the story of people: their Appendix G, Intrinsic waterfronts, with ships filled with goods history, culture, development, Resource Visibility bound for New England and Europe. Today, and interdependence with the Inventory, which these picturesque structures house galleries area’s rich natural resources. assesses their degree and antique shops welcoming visitors from Whether traveling the of visibility from the corridor). around the globe. Shrimp, crab, and oyster Forest Trail of pine boats still ply the coastal waters, providing forests, hardwood The Corridor Management Plan Florida’s freshest seafood to Byway hammocks, grasslands, includes two goals, three objectives, restaurants and seafood houses. The streams, and rivers, or and six strategies that address corridor’s history is also alive at night, when Universal Criterion #1. the Coastal Trail of salt marshes, bays, sand dunes, and beaches, the Byway is truly the “natural place to be.” Along the 171-mile route, travelers can trace the footsteps of Apalachee and Creek Indians, Spanish Conquistadors, British and American troops, early settlers, cotton and timber barons, and Hollywood producers through historic markers, interpretive displays, parks, museums, forts, depots, lighthouses, and historic buildings. The corridor’s lively maritime past can be

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travelers and signs, audio tours, and informational locals alike brochures. See Chapter 5 Corridor Story. can enjoy an evening jam session, play, or “grand ole opry” revue in an historic theatre, school, or once-private home. The Byway’s diversity of scenery, small towns, countryside, and rural charm represents the quintessential “Old Florida.” The Corridor Management Plan includes Interpretation of the corridor’s long and five goals, 14 objectives, and 22 strategies varied history will be augmented through that address Universal Criterion No. 2. the use of information kiosks, interpretive

57 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria Universal Criterion #3 - The Wildlife and Environmental Area, and the roadway must be a public road that Apalachicola National Forest, ending at the Liberty County line. The approximate safely accommodates two-wheel- distance of this section is 25 miles. drive motor vehicles. Coastal Trail East All 171 miles of the candidate Byway Beginning in Wakulla County on SR 30/ corridor are paved public facilities that can US 98 (Coastal Highway) at the intersection safely accommodate two-wheel-drive with CR 59 (Lighthouse Road), this section vehicles. The corridor is divided into two then travels west over the Ochlockonee Bay distinct segments: a Coastal Trail of 96 miles Bridge into Franklin County, ending at the and a Forest Trail of 75 miles. Each trail is intersection with SR 377/US 319 further divided into three segments: East, (Sopchoppy Highway). It includes two spur West, and Central. The route description for routes from SR 30/US 98: (1) SR 363 (Port each follows: Leon Drive) through the town on St. Marks Forest Trail East to the San Marcos de Apalache State Historic Site, and (2) CR 59 (Lighthouse This trail begins on SR 30/US 98 (Coastal Road) through the St. Marks National Highway), west of the town of Newport at Wildlife Refuge to its terminus at the St. the intersection with SR 267 (Bloxham Marks Lighthouse on Apalachee Bay. The Cutoff), and travels northwest, following the approximate distance of this section is St. Marks and Wakulla Rivers past Wakulla 47 miles. Springs State Park. At the intersection with CR 373 (Springhill Road), the trail travels Coastal Trail Central north on CR 373, ending in the Apalachicola This section begins in Franklin County on National Forest at the boundary with Leon SR 30/US 98/US 319 at the intersection with County. The approximate distance of this SR377/US 319 and travels west, ending at section is 18 miles. SR 377/US 319 (Sopchoppy Highway), and the intersection with SR 65. The continues south on SR 377/US 319, crossing approximate distance is 23 miles. Forest Trail Central the Ochlockonee River Bridge into Franklin Beginning in Wakulla County on CR 375 County. The trail ends at the intersection Coastal Trail West (Smith Creek Road) at the boundary with with SR 30/US Highway 98. The approximate This section begins in Franklin County on Leon County, this route travels south distance of this section is 32 miles. SR 30/US 98/US 319 at the intersection with through the Apalachicola National Forest, SR 65 and travels west. In Eastpoint, the crossing the Sopchoppy River. The route Forest Trail West route follows SR 30 (Patton Drive), crossing then turns east into the town of Sopchoppy This segment begins in Franklin County on Apalachicola Bay on the Bryant Patton on CR 375/CR 22 (Rose Street). At Winthrop SR 65 at the intersection with US 98/SR 30 Bridge/SR 300 to St. George Island. The Street, the route doubles back on CR 22 to at the Green Point community just east of route follows CR 300 to St. George Island CR 299 (Curtis Mill Road). The route follows Eastpoint, and travels north through Tate’s State Park. Returning to US 98/SR 30, the CR 299 south to the intersection with Hell State Forest, the Apalachicola River corridor continues westward over the John

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Gorrie Memorial Bridge and Apalachicola See Figure 3.2 for a map illustrating the The Corridor Management Plan includes Bay to the City of Apalachicola. The route Forest and Coastal Trails. Functional one goal, two objectives, and four strategies follows Market Street to its end at Scipio classification and route descriptions begin in that address Universal Criterion #3. Creek. The approximate distance is 26 Chapter 2 and provide additional roadway miles. information to fulfill the requirements of this criterion.

59 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria Figure 3.2: Corridor Segments

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Universal Criterion #4 - The corridor the largest water-flow volume in Florida, is Lighthouse, built in 1832, which is still in must exhibit significant, exceptional, the fifth largest entering the Gulf of Mexico, use today. and is the 21st largest in the United States. and distinctive features of the The basin has the highest species diversity Wakulla Springs State Park and Lodge/ region it traverses. of reptiles and amphibians in the Archaeological and Historic District – United States and Canada, with Wakulla Springs is one of the world’s largest Some 111 cultural, historic, more than 40 species of and deepest fresh water springs, archeological, recreational, amphibians and 80 species of highlighting the 2,860-acre Edward Ball natural, and scenic reptiles. Apalachicola Bay Wakulla Springs State Park. The bowl of the resources have been ranked supports one of the most spring covers approximately three acres. The as priority features of the productive fisheries in the nation, water temperature remains a relatively Big Bend Scenic Byway and accounting for 10% of the U.S. constant 70 degrees year-round. A record are identified on the production of oysters and over peak flow from the spring on April 11, 1973 Intrinsic Resource 90% of Florida’s oysters. was measured at 14,325 gallons per Assessment List. See Figures Apalachicola Bay is recognized by second—equal to 1.2 billion gallons per day. 3.5 – 3.10 for the location of the United Nations Educational, The site is listed on the National Register of resources. Scientific and Cultural Historic Places, and is designated as a National Natural Landmark. The Lodge, The following 46 intrinsic Organization (UNESCO) as an which features hand-painted ceilings, was resources are recognized on International Biosphere Reserve. built in 1937 by financier Edward Ball. The a state, regional, national, or The largest stand of Tupelo trees Park has preserved habitat for over a dozen international level for their in the world is in the lower rare and endangered species, including exceptional, significant, and Apalachicola floodplain. ferns and orchids. distinctive features. Several of these St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge – A resources, such as the Apalachicola National unique refuge established in 1931 to provide Forest, Tate’s Hell State Forest, and the St. wintering habitat for migratory birds, St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, occupy Marks is internationally recognized as home large portions of the Byway and offer a wide to more than 300 species of birds. It is one of variety of scenic and recreational the oldest refuges in the National Wildlife opportunities to the traveling public. They Refuge System. It encompasses 68,000 acres represent 53% of the listed resources, which of land and 31,000 acres of bay, spread occur at 59 locations along the Byway’s along the Gulf Coast of Northwest Florida. Coastal and Forest trails. The refuge includes coastal marshes, Exceptional Features/Outstanding islands, tidal creeks and estuaries of seven North Florida rivers, and is home to a Quality diverse community of plant and animal life. Apalachicola River Basin – This geographic The refuge also has strong ties to a rich Apalachicola National Forest – One of the area contains many unique features worthy cultural past and is the site of the St. Marks largest contiguous blocks of public lands of superlatives. The Apalachicola River has

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east of the Mississippi, the Apalachicola wider than most of the Florida National Scenic Trail – National Forest is the largest National northern Gulf Coast As it leads hikers through Forest in Florida. Containing 569,804 acres barrier islands. Except for Florida’s natural wonders, the and over 120 miles of hiking and equestrian official Refuge uses, no Florida National Scenic Trail trails, it is one of the best remaining motorized vehicles are meanders 1,300 miles across the examples of the native Longleaf pine/ permitted. In 1990, St. state. In 1983, the U.S. Wiregrass ecosystem. The upland parts of Vincent was selected as Congress designated the Florida the forest are covered by stands of Longleaf one of several Trail as part of the National and Slash pine. Wet lowlands are covered by southeastern coastal Trails System, making it one of trees such as Oak, Southern magnolia, and islands for the breeding of only eight National Scenic Cypress. More than 300 species of mammals, endangered Red Wolves. Trails. The Trail extends birds, reptiles, and amphibians make the approximately 100 miles along Apalachicola National Forest their home. Apalachicola Historic the Byway from the St. Marks District – With over 200 National Wildlife Refuge to the historically significant Apalachicola National Forest. homes and commercial structures listed on the Significant Features National Register of Historic Places, the city of St. Marks River – Listed as an Apalachicola was established in 1831. Outstanding Florida Water, the Shipping cotton was the city’s major St. Mark’s River is critical to the Apalachee industry, and it soon became the third region’s ecosystem. It originates in the largest port on the Gulf of Mexico. By the hardwood and cypress river swamps of the 1850s, the waterfront was lined with brick Red Hills near Tallahassee and flows for 35 warehouses and broad streets to handle the miles through Florida before emptying into loading and unloading of cotton. Steamboats Apalachee Bay. At Natural Bridge, it laden with cotton came down the river to be disappears underground and reappears a St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge – A unloaded, then small shallow-draft mile downstream. In the 1800s, the St. remote 12,300-acre barrier island at the west schooners (lighters) shuttled the cargo to Marks River provided the basis for a end of Apalachicola Bay, St. Vincent is ships moored offshore. As the railroads lucrative cotton transport business, which in dissected by dune ridges, which are expanded throughout the United States, a turn supported the establishment of five geological records of ancient beaches and new industry took shape in the city. Home to towns along the river bank. fluctuating sea levels over the last 5,000 large cypress forests, Franklin County Wakulla River – One of the few spring-fed years. Many of the sand roads follow these developed several big lumber mills in the rivers in North Florida, the Wakulla River is ridges, extending from east to west the late 1800s. Lumber magnates built many of listed as an Outstanding Florida Water. The length of the island. The interdune areas the magnificent historic homes that line the river rises from Wakulla Springs and the vary from freshwater lakes and sloughs to city’s streets. Noteworthy structures include Florida Aquifer at Edward Ball Wakulla dry upland pine forests. Four miles wide and the Chestnut Street Cemetery, Dixie Springs State Park, then flows south for ten nine miles long, St. Vincent is larger and Theatre, Sponge Exchange, and Consulate. miles to its confluence with the St. Marks

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River at the town of St. Marks. The Wakulla the water include fishing and canoeing on Ochlockonee River State Park – Located River is a state-designated canoe trail used the state-designated canoe trail upstream near the scenic point where the by thousands of people each year for and downstream of Lake Talquin. Ochlockonee and Dead Rivers intersect, the canoeing, manatee-watching, and fishing. Archaeological sites have been found in the park’s name means “yellow waters,” which river corridor, indicating it has been used by describes the mix of brackish, tidal surge, Ochlockonee River – One of the Apalachee at least five Native American cultures. and fresh water emptying into the Gulf of region’s most important aquatic corridors, Mexico. Trails allow visitors to explore the the Ochlockonee River has the potential to Bald Point State Park – One of the most park and view the diverse wildlife including be one of the most significant greenways in picturesque areas along the North Florida endangered Red-cockaded woodpeckers, the region. It connects the Red Hills area in Gulf Coast, Bald Point is one of the newest rare White squirrels, and natural the north with the public forests, wildlife additions to the award-winning Florida Park communities such as pine flatwoods and oak management areas, and coastal areas of the System. Located on Alligator Point where thickets. A boat ramp provides easy access south. The Ochlockonee River has been Ochlockonee Bay meets Apalachee Bay, the to the river. Both freshwater and saltwater designated as an Outstanding Florida Water, park’s coastal marshes, pine flatwoods, and fish inhabit the waters around the park, and is part of a Strategic Habitat oak thickets foster a diversity of biological including Largemouth bass, Bream, Catfish Conservation Area for the Florida Black Bear communities that make it a popular and Speckled perch. identified by the Florida Fish and Wildlife destination for birding and wildlife viewing. Conservation Commission. The Florida Every fall, Bald eagles, other migrating Natural Areas Inventory has classified the raptors, and Monarch butterflies are upper river segments as an alluvial stream commonly sighted here as they head south community, which is rare in Florida. The for the winter. The park is also home to river and its corridor are home to many fish, many endangered and rare species wildlife, and plant species that are including the Florida Black Bear, sea turtles, endangered, threatened, or of special and alligators. concern. The river and its corridor also offer excellent recreational opportunities, as does St. George Island State Park – Over 1,962 Ochlockonee Bay. Recreational activities on acres of long, narrow barrier island, with miles of undeveloped beaches, dunes, and emerald waters. The park offers excellent opportunities for Gulf Coast shelling and fishing for flounder, redfish, sea trout, Fort Gadsden – Called the “Hill of Good pompano, whiting, and Spanish mackerel. It Vistas” by the Spanish and “Achackweithle” is also a Florida Birding Trail site for spring by Native Americans, this site on the eastern migration. Snowy plover, Least tern, Black bank of the Apalachicola River was the focus skimmer, and willet nest along the park’s of a series of international conflicts that sandy shores and grass flats, which are also literally determined the destiny of nations. home to the endangered Gopher tortoise. At various times, Prospect Bluff hosted a Sea turtles nest along the park beaches, with Spanish settlement, a British Fort, a Negro Loggerhead turtles being the most common. Fort, and the U.S. Fort Scott and Fort

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Gadsden. Conflicts involved escaped Negro Sopchoppy River & Canoe Aquaculture, and the clam slaves; Creek, Choctaw, and Seminole Trail – Officially designated aquaculture leases within the Indians; British and American forces; and as part of Florida’s harbor, as well as other Confederate and Union troops. This site is a Statewide System of important resources and National Historic Landmark and is listed in Greenways and Trails, the habitats within the Alligator the National Register of Historic Places. Sopchoppy River is a good Harbor Aquatic Preserve. example of a blackwater San Marcos de Apalache Historic State stream. High, heavily John Gorrie State Park – This Park – The first European known to have wooded banks line the river park celebrates the local seen this point was Panfilo de Narvaez in and wildlife is abundant. doctor, John Gorrie, who 1528. In 1679, the Spanish started building On the upper section, there pioneered the development of the first fort on this site, using logs painted is little evidence of artificial ice-making, with lime to look like stone, but pirates civilization, as the river refrigeration, and air weren’t fooled by the camouflage. They twists and bends around conditioning. As a young looted and burned the fort a few years later. clumps of cypress knees. physician, John Gorrie moved Forts in St. Marks were later occupied by to Apalachicola in the early Spanish, British, Spanish again, then (for Alligator Harbor – This 1800s when it was a prominent five weeks) by a force seeking to establish Florida Aquatic Preserve is one of the port of trade, commerce, and shipping in “The Nation of Muskogee,” and Spanish yet world’s largest feeding grounds for the Florida. Gorrie also served as postmaster, again, before being taken over by Andrew Kemp’s Ridley, which is the rarest and most city treasurer, town councilman, and bank Jackson in 1818. The fort passed back into endangered of all marine turtles. The area’s director. Concern for his yellow fever Spanish control one more time before U.S. abundance of blue crabs, jellyfish, shellfish patients motivated Gorrie to invent a troops occupied it in 1821. In 1861, it was and seagrass provide an important food method for cooling their rooms. He became reoccupied by Confederate troops and source for all sea turtles. The unspoiled a pioneer in the field of air conditioning and named Fort Ward. The site became a waters and beaches are valuable breeding refrigeration by inventing a machine that permanent possession of the United States and nesting grounds for all marine life. made ice, which in 1851 received the first at the end of the Civil War. Alligator Harbor, in addition to being a U.S. Patent for mechanical refrigeration. A valuable natural resource, is also replica of Gorrie’s ice-making machine is on archaeologically rich with several display at the museum in the Park, as well Miccosukee/Seminole Indian artifacts and as exhibits chronicling the colorful history of burial mounds surrounding the harbor. In a Apalachicola, which played an important joint effort between Coastal and Aquatic role in Florida’s early economic Managed Areas and the Division of development. Agricultural Consumer Services, an informational kiosk has been established at Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Leonard’s Landing Recreation site and boat Reserve – The Apalachicola National ramp for the Preserve. The kiosk presents a Estuarine Research Reserve(ANERR) is one compilation of information about the of 25 sites designated by the U.S. National Department of Agriculture, Division of Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as a National Research Reserve. The program is

64 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria a federal/state partnership established to Distinctive Features/Uniqueness underground caverns, which are often filled provide opportunities for long-term estuarine to Region with water. Along the Byway corridor, these research and monitoring, estuarine notable features are represented by education and interpretation, and resource Karst Topography – Starting from the Cherokee Sink, Wakulla Springs, and management, to provide a basis for more Florida-Georgia state line and extending Shepard’s Spring, among others. Wakulla informed coastal management decisions. The through several counties, the St. Marks Springs is an excellent example of a first- ANERR covers 246,766 acres of the Watershed is a dominant geographic, magnitude spring, pouring forth an average Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint hydrological, and environmental feature of of 2,900 gallons of water per second from a Watershed. The reserve includes barrier the Byway corridor. Covering 1,170 square vent 140 feet deep. In an ongoing scientific island, estuarine, riverine, floodplain, and miles, the Watershed serves as a drainage research effort, one of the most advanced in upland environments, which are closely basin from north of Tallahassee to the St. the world, divers have mapped at least 16 interrelated. Florida Natural Areas Marks River and, ultimately, to Apalachee caves extending from Wakulla Springs, some Inventory – Managed Area Tracking Record Bay. On the north, the area is characterized with caverns 45 feet high and 120 feet wide, Information is available through the Reserve. by hardwood and cypress rivers and and some 1,800 feet long. swamps, as well as numerous small lakes. Apalachicola River Wildlife and On the south, the watershed is of global Tate’s Hell State Forest – This state forest is Environmental Area – This area is part of a scientific interest for its Karst Topography, one continuous tract of land comprising over vast ecosystem that begins hundreds of running throughout the Woodville Plain. A 185,000 acres. Conquering this wet and miles away in the Chattahoochee National porous landform, pierced by conduits and seemingly unproductive area for timber Forest in Georgia. The 82,554-acre channels extending through dissolved production was the focus of the private Apalachicola River Wildlife and limestone, the plain is thinly covered with timber industry from the 1950s to the early Environmental Area (WEA), which is low sand hills where water is quickly 1990s. During the 1960s and 1970s, the administered by the Florida Fish and absorbed. Prominent Karst Topography hydrology of the area was substantially Wildlife Conservation Commission, contains features, created over millions of years, altered in an attempt to establish extensive the largest expanse of floodplain forest in include sinkholes, sinkhole lakes, tracts of pine plantations and enhance the Florida. This forest along the lower disappearing rivers, springs, and production of pine timber. These alterations Apalachicola River protects, feeds, and involved clearing of natural forests, nurtures Apalachicola Bay, the site of construction of roads and associated ditches, Florida’s most productive oyster harvesting. followed by the planting of large dense The region is also considered one of the stands of Slash pine that were fertilized with most important bird habitats in the phosphorus and nitrogen. To protect southeastern United States: more than 280 Apalachicola Bay from the severe freshwater species have been identified in the runoff that ensued, the state began Apalachicola River WEA. Lying on the repurchasing the majority of the property in eastern fringe of the Mississippi Flyway, the 1994 and has continued to acquire area hosts large numbers of birds from both additional lands. As a result, Tate’s Hell has the Midwest and the Atlantic seaboard now become the largest state forest in during migratory periods. Florida, as well as one of the state’s largest reforestation and reclamation efforts.

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St. Marks Lighthouse – The St. Marks bars and 600 acres of private leased bars in Visitors arrived from far away by buggy and Lighthouse was completed in 1831, when its Apalachicola Bay. Public bars are divided plank road trams drawn by mules to bathe in whale-oil lamp was lit for the first time. By into “winter” bars, which are harvested from the springs’ curative waters and stay at the 1842, the structure had to be torn down October through June, and “summer” bars, Panacea Mineral Springs Hotel. The because it was being undercut by erosion. harvested from July through September. protection and planned restoration of the The lamp was taken apart and then There are more than 1,000 people employed Panacea Mineral Springs will provide the reassembled in a new tower, only to be taken by the oyster industry along this part of the traveling public an insight into this historic down again during the Civil War to prevent Byway. Tongers (traditionally called attraction. its use by Union forces blockading the town “oystermen”) harvest the oysters today in the of St. Marks. The tower was rebuilt and the same manner they have for a century. From Camp Gordon Johnston – In 1942, St. light returned to service after the war. The small wooden boats 20-23 feet long, using James Island was commandeered to serve as lighthouse has served mariners ever since. tongs that look somewhat like two rakes the amphibious landing training site for the attached scissor-style, the invasion of Normandy. Originally named Crooked River Lighthouse – oystermen haul the oysters Camp Carrabelle, it was home to 30,000 The Crooked River Lighthouse to the surface. In 2000, military personnel, training an estimated was erected in 1895 on Dog approximately $3.5 million 250,000 troops for the D-Day invasion. The Island, and later moved to its dollars worth of oysters (2.3 camp stretched from Alligator Point to current site on the mainland, million pounds) were Carrabelle and included Lanark, St. Teresa, near the city of Carrabelle. The shucked in local seafood Dog Island, and St. George Island. It was lens was built in 1894 by houses. Historically, Franklin the second largest military installation in Henri La Paute in Paris. The County supplies more than Florida. By 1948, most of the buildings had lighthouse was completely 90% of Florida’s oysters and been demolished and the lands transferred damaged by a hurricane in 10% of the national supply. back to private ownership. The former 2005 and efforts are underway Tongers can be viewed in officers’ family quarters are in the Lanark to rebuild the historic action from Eastpoint and Village retirement community. Army landmark. from the bridge to St. Generals George Patton and Mark Clark George Island. stayed in the Breakaway Lodge, and are Sopchoppy High School and reported to have planned the Normandy Gymnasium – A plaque Mineral Springs – The Invasion sitting on the Lodge’s screen porch describes the history and Byway features several overlooking the Ochlockonee River. Life at architecture of this site, historic mineral springs. In Camp Gordon Johnston can also be constructed in 1939 in native limestone by 1846, the Wakulla Hotel was built next to a experienced today through a dedicated Works Progress Administration (WPA) labor. sulfur spring in New Port and was marketed museum in Carrabelle. It is listed on the National Register of as a health resort for the allegedly medicinal Historic Places, and is regularly used for quality of the mineral water. Lanark once City of Sopchoppy – Known as the” worm musical performances and other public boasted a mineral spring and a luxurious gruntin’ capital of the world,” Sopchoppy is events. resort, the Lanark Springs Hotel. Founded where locals still practice the art of coaxing in 1895, Panacea was named for the healing earthworms from the ground to sell as bait. Oystermen – These harvesters of oysters properties of its many mineral springs. They go into the woods at dawn, drive a cover more than 7,000 acres of public oyster hardwood stob into the ground, and

66 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria rhythmically rub the top of the exposed Tupelo-blossom-laden swamps. These river wood with a heavy piece of iron, such as a valleys are the only place in the world where leaf spring from an old tractor. The friction Tupelo honey is produced commercially. sends vibrations into the ground and Tupelo honey is light amber in color or light apparently irritates the earthworms, causing golden with a greenish cast. The flavor is them to rise to the surface where they are delicious and distinctive, and the honey will collected in bait cans. Each year in early not granulate. Due to the high laevulose April, the town celebrates its tradition with a content and low dextrose ratio, diabetic daylong festival, which has attracted patients have been permitted by their national and international attention. physicians to eat Tupelo honey. Tupelo honey signs are displayed throughout the City of Carrabelle – Incorporated in 1893, corridor. Carrabelle flourished during the early part of the 1900s when lumbering and turpentine prescribed fire is applied along the Byway to Tallahassee–St. Marks Historic Railroad industries were at their height. Turpentine achieve forest management objectives such State Trail – This trail follows the and other pinesap products were used in as: reduce hazardous fuels, dispose of abandoned railbed of Florida’s oldest line naval stores, in an era still dependent on logging debris, prepare sites for seeding and (operating from 1837 to 1984 as the wooden sailing vessels, and for multiple planting, improve wildlife habitat, control Tallahassee-St. Marks Railroad) for sixteen other uses such as printing ink, wax thinner, disease, improve forage for grazing, miles from Florida’s capitol city, Tallahassee, polishes for leather and furniture, and enhance appearance, improve access, through the Apalachicola National Forest to laundry glosses. Turpentining was perpetuate fire-dependent species, recycle the coastal community of St. Marks. intrinsically linked to logging. Once an area nutrients, manage endangered species, and Through the early 1900s, this historic of trees had been tapped out for turpentine, suppress competing vegetation. Prescribed railroad corridor was used to transport the logging operations began. In the late fire signs and burn sites appear throughout cotton from the plantation belt to the coast 1800s, water and steam were employed to the corridor. for shipment to textile mills in England and power circular and band saws. The crew of a New England. Florida’s first designated large steam-operated mill could produce as Tupelo Gum Trees and Honey – Tupelo gum state trail, it is used by approximately much as 100,000 board feet of lumber per trees grow 170,000 bicyclists, day. Tram road systems were developed and profusely along walkers, skaters, and steam-powered locomotives, skidders, rivers of the Byway. equestrians each year. carriages, and loaders moved the old-growth In these river timber to mills. swamps, beehives Shrimp Fleet – By the are placed on 1920s, shrimpers shifted Prescribed Fire – Early settlers in the Big elevated platforms their primary base of Bend found Indians using fire in virgin pine along the river’s operation in Florida stands and adopted the practice themselves edge from which, from Fernandina Beach to provide better access, improve hunting, during April and near Jacksonville to and clear brush and timber so they could May, the bees fan Franklin County and farm. Annual burning to “freshen up” out through the Apalachicola. From southern range became a custom. Today, surrounding 1927-30, the seafood

67 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria industry was the primary industry in the cypress roots from growing deeper. The Red-cockaded woodpecker cavity, sometimes Franklin County. Apalachicola had 16 soil here is also very low in nutrients, as enlarging the hole enough to allow Screech seafood and packing plants operating at full evidenced by the many carnivorous plants in owls, Wood ducks, and even raccoons to force. Though today’s fleet is smaller, shrimp the area. This site is thought to have been move in. Flying squirrels, several species of boats remain a distinctive feature of flooded in the past, further reducing the reptiles and amphibians, and insects, Apalachicola docks and waters. ability of these trees to grow. primarily bees and wasps, also will use Red- cockaded woodpecker cavities. Town of Panacea – A designated Waterfronts Red-Cockaded Woodpecker Tree Bands – Florida Community, Panacea’s long White bands encircling mature Longleaf Pitcher Plants (Sarracenia) – The world’s maritime heritage is linked to the days of pine trees along the forest trails of the greatest concentration of pitcher plant catching thousands of pounds of mullet by Byway indicate nest sites of the endangered species can be seen along the Byway’s use of hand-drawn seine nets. Seineyards Red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW). savannahs and hydric pine flatwoods. sprang up along Dickerson Bay, where Historically, this bird’s range extended from Florida’s six species are native perennials farmers from Georgia and Alabama traveled Florida to New Jersey and Maryland, as far with hollow leaves modified as passive by mule-drawn wagons to barter farm goods west as Texas and Oklahoma, and inland to insect traps. In late March-April, the for salt-dried mullet. Fishing for Grouper Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Today, it wetlands in which these plants grow are and other species overtook the mullet is estimated that there are only about 5,000 transformed from wintry browns and grays industry following the 1993 net-ban, and groups of Red-cockaded woodpeckers, or to the green of spring, highlighted by the crabbing is still actively pursued in Panacea approximately 12,500 birds, from Florida to brightly colored, nodding flowers of pitcher waters. A Big Bend Maritime Center is Virginia and west to southeast Oklahoma plants. Flowers range in colors from bright being established in Panacea to interpret and eastern Texas, representing a mere one purple to red, dark red, or rose. Pitcher this rich heritage for the traveling public percent of the bird’s original numbers. The plants are fire-dependent species. Prescribed and new generations of local residents. forests along the Byway are home to the fire maintains the open aspect of the largest population of RCWs in the United savannahs and bogs and ensures a high Ralph Kendrick Dwarf Cypress Dome – A States. The Red-cockaded woodpecker light environment. This adaptation is unique feature of this area, the Dwarf makes its home in mature pine forests. exhibited chiefly in the thickened Cypress-also known as Bonsai or Hat-Rack Cavities generally take from one to three underground rhizome from which new Cypress--is found throughout Tate’s Hell years to excavate. The aggregate of cavity leaves are produced after fire. State Forest, but nowhere more prominently trees is called a cluster and may include one than in the area of this boardwalk. Many of to 20 or more cavity trees on 3 to 60 acres. Chapman Botanical Gardens – These the trees are more than 300 years old, but The Red-cockaded woodpecker is gardens in Apalachicola, overlooking Scipio they grow to a height of only 6-15 feet. No considered a “keystone species” because it Creek and the Apalachicola River, are one is exactly sure what causes the cypress plays a vital role in the intricate web of life named for Dr. Alvin W. Chapman, an in this area to be dwarfed. The trees are not of the southern pine forests. A number of internationally known botanist and friend in genetically different from other pond- other birds-such as Chickadees, Bluebirds, the early 1800s of Dr. John Gorrie. In 1847, cypress trees in the area, and seeds from Titmice, and several other woodpecker Dr. Chapman authored The Flora of the these trees will grow to normal heights species, including the Downy, Hairy, and Southern United States. when planted on other sites. The soil in this Red-bellied woodpecker—as well as small Orman House State Park – The Orman area is very deep before hitting bedrock, but mammals—use the cavities excavated by House is a restored 1838 two-story home in there is a layer of hard clay that may prevent RCWs. Larger woodpeckers may take over a Apalachicola combining Federal and Greek

68 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

Revival style. The wood for this home was GF&A Trail and Depot – With a visible in 1528, St. Marks may be the third oldest cut to measure near Syracuse, New York, railbed through portions of the Byway’s settlement in North America. and shipped to Apalachicola by a sailing Forest Trail, this is a remnant of the Georgia, vessel around the Florida Keys, then Florida, and Alabama Railroad, which was Dickerson Bay – Surrounded by the Panacea assembled on the bluff overlooking the built in 1893. Today, portions of the bed are Unit of the St. Marks National Wildlife broad estuary and bay of the Apalachicola being converted into hiking and biking Refuge, this bay is refreshed by several River. trails. The Depot is in the town of freshwater springs. It is lined with Black Sopchoppy. needlerush and Smooth cordgrass, and World’s Smallest Police Station – Featured provides food and shelter to birds and on “Real People,” “Ripley’s Believe It or Apalachee Bay – Apalachee Bay’s coast is wildlife, including the endangered Kemp’s Not,” and the “Today Show,” the station is nearly solid salt marsh. Apalachee Bay is Ridley sea turtle. Recreational activities located on the Byway in Carrabelle. In the classified as an open bay type of estuary, include fishing and birdwatching. The Bay early 1960s, the police phone was bolted to a where the water is shallow a long distance included a number of “mullet seineyards” building. It was later placed in a phone from the shore. Winds and waves are weak, and was the site of Panacea bathhouses in booth, making it the World’s Smallest Police so there’s not enough sediment brought in the late 1800s and early 1900s. During the Station. by rivers and waves to make islands. Marsh Civil War, these seineyards were closed by grasses—such as Black needlerush (Juncus Federal troops along with a number of “salt Historic Wakulla County Courthouse – roemarianus) and Smooth cordgrass vats.” In addition to being a valuable natural Listed on the National Register of Historic (Spartina alterniflora)—grow, die, and form resource, the bay is also archaeologically Places, the wooden vernacular-style the basis for one of the world’s most rich with several Miccosukee/Seminole courthouse in Crawfordville was designed productive food chains: the salt marsh. Indian artifacts and burial mounds by G. W. Tully and constructed in 1892-93. It surrounding the harbor. is the oldest wood-frame courthouse still in City of St. Marks – Located at the junction use in Florida. of the St. Marks and Wakulla Rivers, the city The Corridor Management Plan includes has one of the longest histories of any place two goals, two objectives, and six strategies in Florida. Founded by Panfilo de Narvaez that address Universal Criterion #4.

69 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

Universal Criterion #5 - The roadway Summary of percentages of resources that are See Intrinsic Resource Assessment matrix for should be more than one mile in accessed directly from the Byway: a listing of accessibility by resource in Tables 3.10—3.14. length and, if appropriate, provide Of the 111 resources of the Big Bend Scenic access to the resource(s). Byway, 79 (71%) are accessed directly from the route, and 32 (29%) are accessed off the The Franklin/Wakulla County corridor of the Byway via an intersecting road. proposed Big Bend Scenic Byway is 171 miles in length. All intrinsic resources are accessible from the corridor. The corridor is divided into two distinct routes: a Coastal Trail of 96 miles and a Forest Trail of 75 miles, each of which is divided into three segments: East, West, and Central. Due to the ‘wild and natural’ environment of the Byway, some resources are ‘off the beaten path’ and require access from adjacent or intersecting roadways. Below is a summary of how resources are accessed— The Corridor Management Plan includes one directly via the Byway, or indirectly via an goal, two objectives, and three strategies that intersecting roadway. address Universal Criterion #5.

70 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

Universal Criterion #6 - A majority Continuity of Resources of the corridor must exhibit scenic The description below provides the reader or heritage qualifying resource(s). with a “virtual tour” of the Big Bend Scenic Byway. Resources shown in bold and These resources must be as underlined typeface signify those prioritized continuous as possible throughout by the CAG for that trail segment and the corridor. identified on the accompanying Resource Maps and Intrinsic Resource Assessment Qualifying Resources (Figures 3.5 – 3.10). The 46 resources already described in Criterion #4 are so A majority of the Franklin/Wakulla County noted to avoid repetition. corridor exhibits scenic and heritage resources. Much of the proposed Byway is Visitors can begin their adventure on the within or in view of national forest, state Byway from a number of entry points. For forest, and state parks or dramatic ocean the purpose of this discussion, we’ll first viewsheds. travel the Coastal Trail from East to West.

71 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria Figure 3.5: Coastal Trail East There are 32 intrinsic resources identified within the 47 miles of this trail, with 72% of the resources in the viewshed of the corridor.

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HG370 Big Bend Scenic Byway Coastal Trail East riday, July 14, 2006riday, 11:12:02 AM F P:\042176 - FDOT District 3\004 TWO - #7 - Big Bend Scenic Byway\1200 - Designation Phase\GIS\Map Files\f3-5_CTE_060717.mxd

72 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

Coastal Trail East and fall with a profusion economic center with as many as of wildflowers that line the 1,500 inhabitants and a dozen This segment begins in southeastern route. Visitors are also large stores, warehouses, Wakulla County near the town of Newport, treated to legendary wharves, and stills, and was at the intersection of Coastal Highway migrations of waterfowl, designated the county seat in (SR 30/US 98) as well as Monarch and 1844. In 1846, the Wakulla Hotel and Lighthouse other butterflies in the fall. was built next to a sulfur spring Road (CR 59). The Refuge hosts a (at a site on Plank Road one mile Traveling south Monarch Butterfly Festival north from the intersection with on CR 59 for in October. SR 30/US 98) and was marketed 3.7 miles, the as a health resort for the corridor passes Returning to the Byway on allegedly medicinal quality of the through rows of SR 30/US 98 traveling mineral waters. The town was Longleaf pine west, visitors will see the seriously damaged during the before entering the St. Marks National Wakulla County Newport Civil War. Once Florida’s second Wildlife Refuge (Criterion #4). The Visitors Park on the north side of largest city, Newport had fewer Center at the Refuge contains an excellent the road almost directly than 30 residents by 1872. natural history museum, a viewing platform, opposite the road to the Refuge. The park Newport revived for a few years during bathrooms, water fountains, a trail, and offers camping, picnic facilities, bathrooms, World War II when PT boats and other picnic faculties. From a boat launch, and a boardwalk on the St. watercraft were the Center, the road Marks River (Criterion #4). A marker at the built nearby on travels 6.5 miles park entrance notes that the old town of the St. Marks through a mixed Magnolia was established about two miles River. hardwood/pine forest, north of the park. Boat rentals are available across vast salt on the northwest side of the river. On the After crossing marshes dotted with west bank of the river lies the town of the river, the large man-made Newport. Originally called New Port when it Byway winds pools, to the historic was founded to replace 2.5 miles St. Marks Port Leon following a through hardwood forests draped in Lighthouse (Criterion disastrous hurricane, wisteria to the intersection with Port Leon #4) on scenic Newport became an Drive (SR 363). Turning left (south), Apalachee Bay visitors will pass through the City of St. (Criterion #4). Recreational activities Marks (Criterion #4). St. Marks hosts the include fishing and birding at Refuge ponds Humanatee Festival each April. From the along the road, hiking numerous nature city, visitors follow signs at Riverside Drive trails, including the Florida National for 0.6-mile to San Marcos de Apalache Scenic Trail (Criterion #4), and Historic State Park (Criterion #4). A well- photographing the scenery at viewing marked trail with an informative brochure platforms. The drive is enlivened in spring leads visitors on a journey through the

73 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria historic fortification ruins. A viewing opportunities the Wakulla Unit Visitor Center containing include West Indian of the St. Marks exhibits and artifacts covering manatees, turtles, alligators, National Wildlife the area’s history is built on and a wide variety of birds Refuge to visit the foundation of an old and plants. Shell Point Beach marine hospital. Picnic areas and Spring Creek. are provided. The City of St. Side Trips Shell Point is a Marks has enhanced this site, Traveling an additional 1.3 coastal community located at the miles, visitors may wish to with a public beach and restrooms. On confluence of the take a brief side trip on Wakulla Beach windy days this is a popular spot for sailing Wakulla and St. Road, a graded dirt road that winds for 3.9 and surf boarding. Shell Point hosts a Marks Rivers, with miles through the St. Regatta each April. Spring Creek is an an attractive canoe Marks National historic fishing village on the shore of and boat launch, Wildlife Refuge to Dickerson Bay. The name is derived picnic pavilion, and Goose Creek Bay. from a first-magnitude spring that the trailhead for the From the Florida upwells just offshore. Tallahassee-St. National Scenic Trail Marks Historic Railroad Trail (Criterion trailhead, visitors can Continuing west #4). hike three miles to on the Byway Shepard’s Spring, a (SR 30/US 98) for Returning to the Byway on SR 30/US 98, the beautiful spring 2.8 miles, the corridor passes through wooded countryside surrounded by lush route passes for 2.1 miles to the Wakulla River (Criterion vegetation with a raised Wildwood Golf #4). Canoe and kayak rentals are available walkway and benches. and Country at the southeast Opposite the spring is Club, a popular side of the The Cathedral of the 18-hole course open to the public. bridge. The Palms, an ancient, old- Wildwood has a restaurant, golf shop, Wakulla River, growth palm forest. The road ends at and driving range. The Inn at Wildwood, a which Wakulla Beach, with a wonderful view of nature-oriented hotel recently designated a originates at Goose Creek Bay and vast seagrass beds to Green Lodging by the Florida DEP, is Wakulla explore. There are no other public facilities, adjacent to the Country Club. The Medart Springs, flows but the solitude and views are worth Recreation Park is 1.3 miles farther along south for about the drive. SR 30/US 98. It ten miles before joining has ballfields, the St. Marks River Back on the Byway, the route basketball near Fort San Marcos. continues through wooded courts, a The crystal-clear waters countryside for 3.8 miles. At the children’s make it a popular place intersection with Shell Point Road playground, for swimming, boating, (CR 365), visitors can take a brief side and ample and fishing. Wildlife- trip for 5.9 miles through sections of parking. This

74 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria portion of the Byway is planted with native launching point for small boats with a motor coastline, and houses old photographs, wildflowers that bloom during spring and size limit of ten horsepower or less. About artifacts, artwork, educational displays, and fall. 6.5 miles of the Florida tourist information. Directly National Scenic Trail traverses across the road is the Just past the this unit of the Refuge. In 3.8 Panacea Mineral Springs red brick miles, visitors may want to (Criterion #4). Woolley Park, Wakulla High turn on Bottoms Road before which has a children’s School, the entering the town of Panacea. playground, walking trail, Byway joins Only 2.5 miles long, this road parking, and fishing pier, lies Crawfordville passes through the Refuge just off the Byway. The Highway along Dickerson privately owned Gulf (SR 377/ Bay (Criterion #4) and offers Specimen Aquarium and Marine US 319) at the community fantastic marsh views. This is an Laboratory is another stop. It features a of Medart. The route excellent birding spot for large 25,000-gallon marine aquarium of diverse passes vegetable stands, a congregations of White pelicans Big Bend sea life. The facility has open sugar cane field, and in winter, Marsh hawks in the touch tanks, displays, dioramas, as well as several houses dating fall, Marsh wrens, Clapper rails, gift and book shop. Panacea hosts the Blue from the early 1900s. In and a wide variety of shore birds Crab Festival in May, the Mighty Mullet Big 1.5 miles, SR 377/US 319 in spring. In summer, Roseate Bend Festival in November, and Christmas splits off from the Byway. spoonbills have even been in Panacea in December. Continuing on SR 30/US 98, the Byway sighted. Birding or not, the view alone is route passes the Wakulla Middle School and worth the drive. A boat ramp Traveling south from enters the Panacea Unit of the St. Marks at the end of the road offers Panacea, the Byway offers National Wildlife fishermen direct sweeping vistas of roadside Refuge. This Unit is access to the Bay. ponds and coastal marshes largely dominated by At night, Bottoms alive with wildlife, including uplands pine and oak Road is a great Bald eagles, osprey, and forests interspersed with place for star- numerous herons. In 2.4 several freshwater lakes. gazing. miles, the route enters the Primitive walking trails tranquil Community of crisscross this unit, which Continuing on SR 30/US 98 for Ochlockonee Bay. The Wakulla County is open to quota-hunts 0.6-mile, the route enters the Regional during the fall and winter Town of Panacea (Criterion #4). Airport has a months. Located within Visitors will want to stop first at grass runway the Panacea Unit is the the Wakulla County Welcome for small Otter Lake Recreation Center. Perched on pilings planes and Area, which offers picnic overlooking Dickerson Bay, the during the tables and shelters, Center offers sweeping views of summer offers restrooms, and a the surrounding marshland and airplane rides

75 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria and skydiving. At the The Byway blinking traffic light before continues on the Ochlockonee Bay SR 30/US 98 across Bridge, visitors can turn the Ochlockonee right (west) onto Surf Bay Bridge, which Road, which leads some offers sweeping 3.6 miles past private water views of coastal homes to the Ochlockonee Bay entrance of another portion and Apalachee of the Panacea Unit of the Bay (Criterion #4). St. Marks National Wildlife The Byway enters Refuge with hiking trails. Franklin County at Alternatively, they can turn left at the traffic the end of the bridge. The turnoff to light onto Mashes Sands Road, which leads Alligator Point and Bald Point State Park passes numerous lily-clad ponds, the St. Joe to Mashes Sands Recreation Area, a nice (Criterion #4) is approximately one mile development of Summer Camp, then the place to view Apalachee Bay, watch ahead. Activities include birding, picnicking, Florida State University Marine Laboratory dolphins, cast for mullet and, at low tide, swimming, beachcombing, fishing, at Turkey Bayou. The Marine Lab was walk the sandbars to see a great variety of canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, and constructed in 1968 to facilitate study of the shorebirds, including Black skimmers. hiking. The park has two beaches, a fishing coastal environment. Facilities include Facilities include a white sand beach, dock, picnic pavilions, restrooms, hiking laboratories, classrooms, a modest library, restrooms, boat landing, picnic tables, tidal trails, and a handicapped-accessible housing, a fleet of small boats, a 47-foot marshes, and trailhead for the Ochlockonee boardwalk with interpretation. multi-purpose research vessel, diving Bay Trail. The 15-mile trail, currently under technology, and construction, will travel alongside Mashes Continuing on the Byway, visitors will catch other equipment Sands Road and Surf Road through the their first glimpses of the Alligator Harbor for education and Panacea Unit of the St. Marks National Aquatic Preserve (Criterion #4) with research in the Wildlife Refuge to another trailhead near Alligator Point in the background. Here marine Sopchoppy. Leonard’s Landing, a small waterside pull- environment. off and boat launch, features a roadside kiosk with information on clam farming and seagrass beds.

The Byway continues on SR 30/US 98 through St. Teresa, a traditional seaside community adjacent to Alligator Harbor. The corridor

76 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

This portion of the Coastal route ends 0.6-mile past the FSU Marine Lab at the intersection of Coastal Highway (SR 30/US 98) with Sopchoppy Highway (SR 377/US 319).

77 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria Figure 3.6: Coastal Trail Central There are twelve intrinsic resources identified within the 23 miles of this trail, with 75% of the resources in the viewshed of the corridor.

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!44 Dog Island Legend ST65 St George Sound Coastal Trail Central [N National Forest State Forest State or County Park Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve Wildlife or Environmental Area !50 Research Reserve Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park ! Intrinsic Resource Location Gulf of Mexico 012340.5 Miles

St. George Island Big Bend Scenic Byway Coastal Trail Central onday, July 17, 20061:36:44PM M P:\042176 - FDOT District 3\004 TWO - #7 - Big Bend Scenic Byway\1200 - Designation Phase\GIS\Map Files\f3-6_CTC_060717.mxd

78 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

Coastal Trail Central dynamite. Instead of Johnston opening the springs, the Reunion in From the intersection of Coastal blast, unfortunately, March, Highway (SR 30/US 98) and collapsed the source. Riverfront Sopchoppy Highway The hotel later burned Festival in (SR 377/US 319), the Byway down. April, continues west on Coastal Shriners’ Highway with views of beach Across from Lanark is Fishing houses, seagrass beds, and the Lanark Reef. Best Tournament Alligator Harbor Aquatic Preserve. viewed at low tide, the in May, Saltwater Fishing Classic in June, The St. James Bay Golf Course is reef is a nesting site and a Boat Parade of Lights in December. three miles from the beginning of and a feeding ground This is also the location of the Camp this trail segment. This 18-hole for terns and many Gordon Johnston Museum. Dedicated to championship course, designated shore birds. Franklin the heritage of soldiers of World War II, this as an Audubon International County maintains a museum focuses on those who trained for Sanctuary, is both challenging boat launch here for amphibious landings at Camp Gordon and beautiful. Open to the public, direct access to Dog Johnston. It includes extensive history of facilities include a restaurant and pro shop. Island and the reef, highly prized for tarpon these units, as well as a photographic Approximately 0.6-mile farther is Lanark fishing. display of the area and life as it Village, a retirement community with a existed at the camp. Artifacts are The route continues along the small golf course that is also open to the displayed in six rooms: Barracks, water for 6.6 miles, then public. Many of the homes in Lanark were Equipment, War, Home Front, reaches a Forest Service fire originally officers’ quarters for Camp Camp Gordon Johnston, and tower, which is the future Gordon Johnston during World War II. Franklin County Veterans. Lanark once boasted a mineral springs and location of a trailhead for the a luxurious resort, the Lanark Springs Hotel. GF&A Bike Trail running from The Byway rejoins SR 30/US 98/ Reportedly, the springs became plugged and Leon County south through US 319 at the intersection with locals decided to clear them out with Sopchoppy to the Gulf. The Marine Street and continues west Byway turns left from SR through Carrabelle. Visitors can 30/US 98/US 319 at this point, following take Tallahassee Street for one block north to Gulf Avenue (CR 30A) past wetlands that the Old Carrabelle Hotel, a nicely serve as a rookery for wading birds. This renovated structure dating route enters the City of from the late 1800s. The Carrabelle (Criterion #4) property once was used as a along Marine Street, with railroad hotel serving the line a harbor walk, waterfront from Tallahassee. The Byway pavilion, and beautiful passes the World’s Smallest views of the harbor and Police Station (Criterion #4) Timber Island. The city before crossing over the hosts a Camp Gordon

79 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

Carrabelle River, offering covered by plants, Scrub oaks, breathtaking views of St. and isolated groups of Sand George Sound and pines, and lower elevations Carrabelle Harbor. with dense palmettos, Slash and Longleaf pine. A picnic Carrabelle Beach is 1.5 table is located at the halfway miles west of Carrabelle on point and a park bench at the the Byway. A popular tourist end of the spur trail. stop, activities here include shelling, swimming, volley The route soon crosses Yent ball, and surf fishing. Public restrooms and Bayou, a scenic stream winding through covered picnic areas are available. There are marsh grass into the Gulf of Mexico. Black a number of good diving locations off the bears are frequently seen along this stretch coast, most within 20 miles of shore, making of the Byway. The next few miles offer great them readily views of St. George Sound and St. George accessible. Island in the distance. The Coastal Trail Artificial reefs, Central ends at shipwrecks, the intersection and five Air of SR 30/US 98/ Force signal US 319 and towers are just SR 65. a few of the sites to visit.

The Byway continues along St. George Sound for another 1.9 miles, where visitors can see the Crooked River Lighthouse (Criterion #4). A short distance farther along SR 30/US 98/US 319 is Tate’s Hell State Forest (Criterion #4) and the parking lot for the High Bluff Coastal Hiking Trail. This one-mile loop features coastal scrub habitat unique to this coastline. The route crosses old sand dunes

80 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria Figure 3.7: Coastal Trail West There are 16 intrinsic resources identified within the 26 miles of this trail, with 69% of the resources in the viewshed of the corridor. ST

101! !42 FRANKLINFRANKLIN Tate’s Hell State Forest 102! !100 !98 Lake Wimico Apalachicola River !97 !43 Wildlife and Environmental Area !96 GULF !44

ST65 Box-R Wildlife Management Area East Bay ./98 50 !51 Eastpoint ! Apalachicola 45 !!!!!!! ! !!!!!!! !47!46 St George Sound !!!! !! !48

./98 !!!!!!!! HG30A !!!!!!! Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park St Vincent Sound

Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve ST300

Apalachicola Bay St. Vincent Island St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge

A !59!58 palachicola River !60 !56 384 57 53 M Legend HG ! ! A RK E T Coastal Trail West St. George Island S [N 54 T National Forest ! Apalachicola !55 !52 State Forest State or County Park ENUE E AV Wildlife or Environmental Area Gulf of Mexico Research Reserve ./98 HG384 ! Intrinsic Resource Location Apalachicola Bay

012340.5 Miles

Big Bend Scenic Byway Coastal Trail West riday, July 14, 2006riday, 11:32:08 AM F P:\042176 - FDOT District 3\004 TWO - #7 - Big Bend Scenic Byway\1200 - Designation Phase\GIS\Map Files\f3-7_CTW_060714.mxd

81 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

Coastal Trail West these piers today are popular fishing spots. The route continues on SR 30 for From the intersection of SR 0.7-mile until it intersects with 30/US 98/US 319 and SR 65, Island Drive. The Byway follows the Byway continues west to Island Drive over the newly- Eastpoint, a commercial constructed Bryant Patton Bridge fishing village with (SR 300) to St. George Island. processing plants, docks, The water views are wonderful seafood markets, and from the bridge and provide a restaurants stretching the great opportunity to watch length of town along St. oystermen in their boats George Sound. Visitors will notice huge “tonging” for oysters. piles of oystershells and wooden oyster boats bridge, the route turns west on South tied behind processing plants, denoting the St. George Island is a 28-mile barrier island Bayshore Drive for 1.1 miles to SR 30/ role of Oystermen (Criterion #4) in the with some of the most beautiful and serene US 98/US 319. It then follows US 98 for 5.1 region. Eastpoint hosts the Volunteer Fire beaches in the United States. The island has miles across the John Gorrie Bridge to Department Rib Cook in March. an extensive residential community, as well Apalachicola. Visitors have an excellent as bike and kayak rentals and a bike trail. view of the famous Apalachicola Bay and In Eastpoint, 2.9 miles from the intersection The island hosts a Chili Cook-Off in March River (Criterion #4) from the bridge. with SR 65, the route leaves SR 30/ and Oyster Spat Festival in October. Once US 98/US 319 and follows Patton Drive on St. George Island, the Byway The City of Apalachicola, a (SR 30) along the water past several typical follows Gulf Beach Drive (CR designated Waterfronts seafood houses and the Marion Millender 300) with good views of the Gulf Florida Community, has an Site, a lovely shaded picnic area of Mexico east exceptionally rich history on St. George Sound. From here for 4.5 miles to and its maritime culture it is only a short distance to the St. George reflects the area’s bountiful St. George Island Bridge Island State natural resources. Visitors Fishing Pier, which is a remnant Park (Criterion can stroll past beautiful of the old bridge that was #4). The park’s Victorian homes or spend completed in 1965. Left standing beaches have been rated time browsing through unique galleries, on both sides of the Sound, among the best in the stores, and antique shops. The Historic United States. Activities District include birding, swimming, fishing, boating, (Criterion #4) hiking, biking, camping, and nature study. boasts over 200 Facilities include picnic shelters, restrooms, historically picnic tables, a boat ramp, and a camp significant ground. homes and commercial From here, the Byway doubles back across structures the bridge to the mainland. Once off the around town.

82 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

The Welcome Center Refuge Visitor Center Apalachicola hosts numerous celebrations offers tourist materials (Criterion #4) and, at each year, including the Mardi Gras Festival and walking maps of the the opposite end of the in February, Spring Jazz Festival in March, district. Another marina, the Antique & Classic Boat Show in April, Tour noteworthy stop is the Apalachicola National of Historic Homes in May, and in John Gorrie State Park Estuarine Research November, the Florida Seafood Festival, (Criterion #4), Reserve Nature Historic Christmas Celebration, and Fall celebrating the local Center (Criterion #4). Jazz Festival. doctor who pioneered the It contains extensive development of artificial displays and The Big Bend Scenic Byway’s other ice-making, refrigeration, information on the attraction is its Forest Trail. To continue this and air conditioning. estuary that includes “virtual tour,” we’ll follow the Forest Trail the river delta bay. from East to West. Continuing through town on Market Street Three tanks include the Byway follows Scipio Creek, passing indigenous life from the Chapman Botanical the river, bay, and Garden (Criterion #4) and, gulf. A short across the street, the Orman interpretive nature House State Park (Criterion #4). walk winds through a picturesque The Byway terminates at the wetland. Scipio Creek Marina, a picturesque facility full of green net-draped Shrimp Boats (Criterion #4). The marina also provides access to two resources— the St. Vincent National Wildlife

83 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria Figure 3.8: Forest Trail East There are 13 intrinsic resources identified within the 18 miles of this trail, with 62% of the resources in the viewshed of the corridor.

84 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

Forest Trail East restored sinkhole lake, are both examples of Karst Topography (Criterion #4). Cherokee This portion of the Byway Sink is located a short drive from begins in eastern Wakulla the Park entrance, and has picnic County at the intersection tables and walkways leading down of Coastal Highway to the lake. Swimming, SCUBA (SR 30/US 98) and diving, picnicking, and hiking are Bloxham Cutoff (SR 267) allowed. west of Newport. The corridor along SR 267 is Wakulla State Forest is located wooded and lined with directly opposite the entrance to flowering magnolia and Wakulla Springs State Park. This is dogwood trees in spring. Florida’s newest state forest and it The route crosses the currently is in the planning phase. Tallahassee-St. Marks Visitors are encouraged to hike, Side Trip Historic Railroad Trail bike, or ride horseback on the old At the signalized intersection with (Criterion #4), which can roadbeds and fire lanes to Crawfordville Highway (SR 377/US 319), be accessed at a nearby experience first-hand the same visitors may wish to take a side trip five trailhead. natural, untamed resources that miles south to the town of Crawfordville, the early settlers discovered. Continuing on the county seat of Wakulla County. Points of In a short distance, the Byway passes over a Byway, the Bethel Historic Site, consisting scenic freshwater stream, McBride Slough, interest include the Historic Wakulla of an old church and cemetery, is at the County Courthouse (Criterion #4), Old before reaching the entrance to Edward Ball intersection with Spring Creek Highway Wakulla Springs State Park and Lodge Wakulla County Jail and Historical Society (SR 365). From here the corridor passes Center, and (Criterion #4). Activities include birding, Camp Indian Springs and then winds wildlife viewing, swimming, photography, Azalea and through rural countryside lined with fields Hudson Parks, horseback riding, hiking, and boat rides. and homes. Facilities two urban include a full parks in the service lodge, center of town gift shop, with walking hiking trails, trails and diving picnic platform, facilities. Apalachicola National Forest swimming Headquarters, located two blocks off area, horse SR 377/US 319 on Taff Drive, offering bird trails, interpretive exhibits, picnic areas, lists, nature books, forest maps, as well as restrooms, and showers. The Park hosts the trail and camping information, is a must Wakulla Wildlife Festival in April. Wakulla stop for anyone wanting to visit the National Springs and Cherokee Sink, a beautifully Forest.

85 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

The Byway continues west on SR 267 for 2.6 miles to Springhill Road (CR 373) and turns north to access resources of the Apalachicola National Forest (ANF) (Criterion #4). This portion of the Byway encompasses the eastern portion of the ANF along Springhill Road. The roadway first passes through the site of the historic mill town of Helen. Though there is nothing left of the town itself, visitors will notice a raised roadbed on the west side of the Byway, which was the railbed for the Georgia, Florida, and Alabama Railroad of 1893 (nicknamed the “Gopher, Frog, and Alligator” by old-timers). This is now being converted into the GF&A Bike Trail (Criterion #4). The Helen Guard Station, a former Forest Service Work Center, is currently closed to the public, but is also being developed as a trailhead for the GF&A Bike Trail with an interpretive kiosk. This portion of the Byway ends at the Leon County line.

86 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria Figure 3.9: Forest Trail Central There are 22 intrinsic resources identified within the 32 miles of this trail, with 55% of the resources in the viewshed of the corridor.

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! ! ! !85 !87 ! 86 Sopchoppy d Swamp ! !88 17 !89!90 ! !13 ./98 O Legend chlockonee River HG22 HG299 18 !19 Forest Trail East ./319 !21 ! !23 !91 22 !20 !!!!!!!! Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail ! Panacea 24 Goose Creek Bay Ochlockonee River ! !!!!!!!! Florida National Scenic Trail State Park National Forest !92 FRANKLINFRANKLIN HG372 !25 !94 State Forest 95 ! Mashes Sands State or County Park Tate’s Hell State Forest 27 County Park Tate’s Hell State Forest Ochlockonee! Bay Wildlife or Environmental Area 93 F R A N K L I N ! Apalachee Bay Research Reserve F R A N K L I N !28 HG67 N rooked River ./319 [ C ! Intrinsic Resource Location Bald Point State Park !31 !30 Gulf of 024681 ./98 Miles !32 Mexico 29 !33 Alligator Harbor ! Big Bend Scenic Byway Forest Trail Central onday, July17, 20062:08:14PM M P:\042176 - FDOT District 3\004 TWO - #7 - Big Bend Scenic Byway\1200 - Designation Phase\GIS\Map Files\f3-9_FTC_060717.mxd

87 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

Forest Trail Central of beautiful butterflies. Here the Sopchoppy River and Byway passes through acres Canoe Trail (Criterion #4) This portion of the of Longleaf pine and and enters the charming Byway begins at the Wiregrass habitat. Black Town of Sopchoppy Leon County line on trunks of the trees denote (Criterion #4) on Rose Smith Creek the use of Prescribed Fire Street (CR 22). The town Highway (CR 375). (Criterion #4) as a features an 1893 GF&A Here the Scenic management tool and white Railroad Depot (Criterion Byway borders the bands on mature Longleaf #4), a small historic Ochlockonee River pine trees indicate Red- district, outfitters, and (Criterion #4), cockaded woodpecker shops. Nearby sites to visit passing through the nests (Criterion #4). About include Myron B. Hodge City central portion of the Apalachicola National one mile from Smith Creek, Park, a 35-acre park located on Forest (Criterion #4). The first recreational FR 13 crosses the Byway to the banks of the pristine facility along the route is Pine Creek Two Rivers Bridge, offering Sopchoppy River and canoe Landing, which lies just 1.3 miles to the sweeping views of the trail, with camping facilities, west of Byway and offers a great view of the Ochlockonee River and the ballfield, one-room schoolhouse Ochlockonee River. There are picnic floodplain swamp and log cabin, and boardwalk, as facilities, primitive camping, dominated by Tupelo well as the Historic Sopchoppy and a boat launch. Five gum trees (Criterion #4). The bridge High School and Gymnasium (Criterion miles further south on the also serves as the route for the Florida #4). Sopchoppy hosts the Worm Gruntin’ Byway is the rural Scenic Trail (Criterion #4), with a Festival in April, 4th of July Celebration, Community of Smith trailhead at Porter Lake, an ANF facility and Christmas in Sopchoppy in December. Creek, comprising a on the western end of the bridge. The picturesque cluster of old bridge is also an excellent area for At Winthrop Street barns and homes, a birdwatching. The next ANF facility in Sopchoppy, the cemetery, and one-room along the Byway is Mack Landing, Byway doubles school house. Just off the which is six miles south of FR 13. The back on Rose Byway is Jack Langston’s landing is one mile from the Byway on a Avenue (CR 22), Fish Camp and Landing, graded dirt road (FR 336). Mack and follows the left with original fishing cabins Landing is an area with camping, boat fork over the river and a great view of the launch, picnic tables, restrooms, and on CR 22. In just Ochlockonee River. fishing. over a mile, it turns left on Curtis Spring and fall are As the route continues southward, the Mill Road particularly beautiful Apalachicola National Forest gives way (CR 299). When seasons along this portion of to gently rolling hills with fields and completed, the the Byway. The roadsides farms. Some nine miles from the Mack GF&A Bike Trail are filled with wildflowers Landing turnoff, the Byway crosses the will follow this and frequented by varieties

88 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

Continuing south on SR 377/US 319, the Island was commandeered to serve as Camp Byway crosses the Ochlockonee River Gordon Johnston (Criterion #4), an Bridge, leaving Wakulla County and amphibious landing training site for the entering St. James Island in Franklin invasion of Normandy. Army Generals County. At low tide, visitors can still see the George Patton and Mark Clark stayed in the remains of the Old McIntyre Ferry lying Breakaway Lodge and are reported to have partially submerged against the southwest planned the Normandy Invasion sitting on bank of the river. McIntyre was a turn-of- the Lodge’s screen porch overlooking the the-century logging town and mid-way stop Ochlockonee River. for the GF&A railroad line from Tallahassee to Carrabelle. The old trestle Byway route from town. The at the St. Joe Boat Ramp route enters the Apalachicola lies just off the Byway on National Forest in a few McIntyre Road. miles. Just off the route is Wood Lake, a facility of the The first intersection with Apalachicola National Forest, Rio Vista Road (CR 370) which has a boat launch and provides access to the fishing. The route continues Cow Creek Boat Ramp. through the forest, then winds through Cow Creek is a beautiful stream that wooded countryside. meanders past old-growth cypress and banks lined with wild rice. Travelers might In another 6.2 miles, the Byway reaches the also see White squirrels that were brought to The final six miles of this route passes pine intersection with Sopchoppy Highway the Breakaway Lodge, a hunting and fishing plantations and a Forest Service Fire Tower. (SR 377/US 319) and turns south for 0.2- lodge built in 1938. In 1942, St. James This area is frequented by Black bear and mile to the entrance of the Ochlockonee other wildlife. The route ends at the River State Park (Criterion #4). Activities intersection of SR 377/US 319 and SR 30/ include swimming, boating, hiking, biking, US 98. camping, picnicking, birding, and wildlife viewing. Facilities include interpretive kiosks, picnic shelters, boat launch, canoe rentals, and hiking trails.

89 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria Figure 3.10: Forest Trail West There are 16 intrinsic resources identified within the 25 miles of this trail, with 69% of the resources in the viewshed of the corridor.

HG22 LI B E R T Y ST65 hipola River C Legend A ! palachic k o ee la r R lC Forest Trail East i v w e 111 O [N r ! Intrinsic Resource Location

HG381 National Forest Apalachicola State Forest National Forest State or County Park Wildlife or Environmental Area

R obinson Bay ! ! Research Reserve 012340.5 109 110 ! Miles ! ! 106 108 107 FFRR AA NN KK LL II NN Tate’s Hell State Forest HG387

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90 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

Forest Trail West approximately 4.75 miles off the and third creeks in succession are Whiskey Byway (see Criterion #4). The George (which has a handicapped- This section of the Forest Trail facility includes an information accessible landing) and Doyle Creek and begins on SR 65 in Franklin kiosk with an excellent Landing. County and continues 25 miles interpretation of the ecosystem, a to the north, terminating at the boardwalk, and an observation Approximately 3.5 miles north of the turnoff Liberty County line. The Forest tower. Activities include wildlife to the Cypress Dome on SR 65 the Byway Trail West follows the observation and photography. enters the Apalachicola River Wildlife and Apalachicola River northward Environmental Area (Criterion #4) and the and is bordered by public From here the Byway passes a Sand Beach Recreation Area, a beautiful lands—Tate’s Hell State Forest, series of creeks. One of the best Cabbage palm hammock with an Apalachicola River Wildlife ways to explore this land outstanding and Environmental Area, and water—immortalized in view of the and the Apalachicola the film Ulee’s Gold, which Apalachicola National Forest. Tate’s Hell featured Tupelo Honey River and State Forest (Criterion #4) (Criterion #4)—is by canoe floodplain contains a network of or kayak. The scenery is forest. The unpaved forest roads to breathtaking. Visitors can facility is 2.7 explore the area, including birdwatch or fish for Large- miles off the approximately 150 miles of mouth bass, catfish, Byway on a new off-highway vehicle Striped bass, and graded dirt road. Facilities include an (OHV) trails, which are available for a fee of bream. Hundreds of information kiosk, picnic tables, nature trail, $50 per vehicle per year. Activities include miles of scenic natural dock, and observation tower. Activities hiking, canoeing, boating, and fishing along waterways wind include wildlife observation, hiking, fishing, 35 miles of beautiful rivers, streams, and through pristine picnicking, and boating. This is also a great creeks. floodplain forests and place to watch sunsets. intertidal marshes Approximately 5.5 miles north of the offering excellent Continuing north on SR 65, the Byway intersection of SR 30/US 98/US 319 and opportunities for passes Graham Creek & Landing. The train CR 65 is the directional sign on the east side paddlers on the trestle and tracks along the roadway belong of the road for the Ralph Kendrick Dwarf Apalachicola River and to the Apalachicola Northern Railroad. Some Cypress its tributaries. April and October 16.6 miles from the Dome are great months to view Swamp starting point on SR (Criterion lilies, Swamp roses, and asters. 65, the Byway enters #4). The The first creek the route passes is the Apalachicola Dome is Cash Creek with a boat launch on National Forest reached via the east side of the road. The (Criterion #4). This a graded magnificent views in both portion of the forest dirt road, directions from the bridge are well has been regularly worth the entire drive. The second burned. The terrain

91 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

here shifts to more the Byway on FR 129 trailer space and dump station, restrooms, open savannahs, (a graded dirt road). showers, fishing, swimming, hiking, and sub-tropical The site was nature trails. Wright Lake is handicapped- grasslands described in Criterion accessible and both facilities have entrance scattered with #4. Facilities include fees. The Byway ends 2.5 miles to the north Longleaf pine trees an information kiosk at the old town of Sumatra. Just before and covered with with historic reaching the town is the Sumatra Cemetery, drought-resistant dioramas depicting which has gravestones from the Civil War. undergrowth. They early settlements and form an open landscape where wiregrass major battles, picnic tables, nature trail, The narratives provided for Universal covers the forest floor. Much of the soil is shelter, and restrooms. Activities include Criterion #4, the Intrinsic Resource Matrix, sandy and often wet. Wildflowers such as hiking, picnicking, wildlife observation, and resource maps (Figures 3.5 – 3.10), orchids, Pitcher Plants (Criterion #4), and photography, and fishing. together with the accompanying sundews flourish, making the savannahs descriptions, fulfill this criterion. some of the most botanically rich areas in There are two other distinctive Apalachicola The Corridor Management Plan includes the country. National Forest facilities along this route: Hickory Landing with camping, picnic three goals, four objectives, and fourteen Four miles farther along the Byway is the tables, restrooms, drinking water, boat strategies that address Universal Criterion entrance to the Fort Gadsden Historic Site landing, and fishing and hiking trails; and #6. (Criterion #4). The site is three miles west of Wright Lake with camping, picnic tables,

92 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

Universal Criterion #7 - A Corridor • Active Participation—at public meetings, Advocacy Group (CAG) must be presentations, and workshops; and • Funding and Promotion—confirmed by organized to support the scenic wide support for production of the video highway designation. Fire Forests of the Big Bend Scenic Byway, The Wakulla County CAG was formed in the and production and dissemination of The spring of 2001 and the Franklin County Guide to the Big Bend Scenic Byway (see CAG in the spring of 2004. The two CAGs Chapter 11). joined forces following their Designation The Corridor Management Plan includes Training in November 2005, and have four goals, six objectives, and fifteen continued to conduct regularly scheduled strategies that address Universal Criterion joint meetings. The combined CAG has 80 In addition to the number and diversity of its #7. Note that 6PP is the assigned reference members (see pages vi—x for a list of members, the success of the joint CAG is to the Big Bend Scenic Byway Corridor current CAG members), with 45 members evident in: from Wakulla and 35 from Franklin (see • Letters of Support—representing a broad Advocacy Group. Appendix K for minutes of meetings, spectrum of endorsing groups; announcements, etc.). • Formation of CAG Teams—for visioning and conduct of Field Inventories and Corridor Impression Surveys;

The CAG Members continue to be the “heart and soul” of the Big Bend Scenic Byway, as all of the officers elected for the newly-formed Corridor Management Entity are CAG Members (see Chapter 7 for list of CME officers.

93 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

Universal Criterion #8 - A Community Universal Criterion #9 - Strong local Universal Criterion #10 - A Corridor Participation Program must be support must be demonstrated. Management Plan (CMP) must be developed and implemented. The Big Bend Scenic Byway has achieved developed with the endorsement of The Franklin/Wakulla County CAG has strong, highly balanced support for Florida local government(s) and a Corridor developed and successfully implemented a Scenic Highway designation. Of the 55 Management Entity (CME) created. strong Community Participation Program letters and resolutions received, 35 (64%) (CPP). More information on the CPP can be were from local businesses and civic Corridor Management Plan organizations, 11 (20%) were from state and found in Chapter 8 - Community The CAG developed its Corridor federal agencies and institutions, and 9 Participation Program. Management Plan over a six-month period (16%) were from local government bodies, beginning in November 2005 (see Chapters During the Designation phase, the focus of both city and county. (For additional 7 and 8). As stated in Universal Criterion #8 the CPP changed from “getting people information see Chapter 9 - Local Support, and in Chapter 8 Community Participation involved” to “helping make it happen.” The and Appendix L for sample letters and Program, the CAG chose to present its CAG decided to package its Corridor resolutions). Corridor Management Plan in the form of Management Plan as a public education an Executive Summary Poster for use as a tool: the Corridor Management Plan Poster. public education tool. The Poster includes all This fold-out, richly illustrated, color poster elements of the Corridor Management Plan includes the following sections: in a graphically pleasing and highly • The Big Bend Scenic Byway Story; readable format (see the enclosed Executive • Vision; Summary Poster on page xv). • Goals, Objectives, and Strategies; The CAG is now working with the • Action Plan; incorporated cities of Carrabelle, • Benefits of Designation; and Apalachicola, Sopchoppy, and St. Marks, as • What the Florida Scenic Highway well as with the Franklin and Wakulla Program Does Not Do County Boards of County Commissioners, to In addition, the strength of local support is have the Corridor Map, Vision Statement, Members of the CAG have presented the evident in the diversity and level of and Goals and Objectives of the Corridor poster at numerous public events and participation by CAG and CME members Management Plan included in each meetings along the Byway, and succeeded (see page vi—x CAG Directory). The extent government’s Comprehensive Growth Plan in building broader support for the of local government support is confirmed by during the next amendment cycle (see Implementation Phase. Community the resolutions of support approved by all Chapter 12 for details). All jurisdictions and participation will continue to be a vital incorporated communities and counties both county governments have signed the component of work on the Big Bend Scenic along the Byway. Designation Application and have adopted Byway and is reflected in the language used resolutions stating their support for for implementation strategies in the Action designation of the Big Bend Scenic Byway. Plan-Raise Awareness, Promote, Support, Encourage, Improve Capacity, Educate, Explore, etc.

94 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

Formation of the CME Commerce of Carrabelle and Wakulla • Thirteen resources, or 12%, are identified The first action of the combined Franklin County; Franklin County Office of as having Archaeological qualities. and Wakulla CAG in November 2005 was to Emergency Management; Franklin and convene a preliminary Corridor Wakulla County Corridor Advocacy Groups; Archaeological Assessment Panacea Waterfronts Florida Partnership; Management Entity (CME) to help develop Staff at the Master Site File of the Florida Florida Foresight-Big Bend Maritime and expand support for the Corridor Department of State have generously Center; Wakulla County Realtors Management Plan (CMP). Though this task cooperated in identifying 199 archaeological Association; Gulf Coast Community Bank; is usually undertaken at the end of the resource sites that are within one half-mile TCC Department of Economic and Designation Application process, the CAG of each side of the Big Bend Scenic Byway Workforce Development; and The Inn at felt that early formation would be corridor. No listing is included in the Wildwood. advantageous. The CAG established a six- application, as--in keeping with Department month meeting schedule with alternate Intrinsic Resource Assessment of State policy—the CAG wishes to protect monthly meetings of the CAG and the CME their exact location. Only those sites that are (see Chapter 7 for background and a list of The Byway CAG identified 111 resources as open to the public are identified on the CME Members). In a meeting on May 31, being of priority interest, sixty on the Resource List and Map. 2006, the CME reviewed and approved its Coastal Trails and fifty-one on the Forest Bylaws, elected Officers, and all members Trails. The location of each resource is The 199 archaeological sites along the present signed the CME Agreement. The identified in Figures 3.5 - 3.10, utilizing the corridor include prehistoric burial mounds, composition of the CME is profiled in number assigned to each resource on the shell middens, habitations, quarries, and Criterion #9. following Matrix. ceramic scatter from cultures dating from as early as 700 - 300 B.C. Here is a summary of Participating in the meeting were Assessment Summary their distribution along the Byway corridor: representatives of the Florida Department of • Of these sites, 53% were rated as being Transportation (Environmental Management • Coastal Trail East - 62 sites Exceptional, Significant, or Distinctive. Office); Florida Department of • Coastal Trail Central - 20 sites Environmental Protection (Division of • Seventy-eight resources, or 70%, are • Coastal Trail West - 16 sites Recreation & Parks and Office of Greenways directly accessible from the Byway. • Forest Trail East - 30 sites & Trails); Florida Fish & Wildlife • Thirty-three resources, or 30%, are • Forest Trail Central - 58 sites accessible via a connecting road. Conservation Commission; Apalachee • Forest Trail West - 13 sites Regional Planning Council; Capital Region • Forty-eight resources, or 43%, are Transportation Planning Agency; USDA identified as having Natural qualities. Natural Community Assessment Forest Service–Apalachicola National Forest; • Seventy-four resources, or 67%, are US Department of Interior-St. Marks and St. identified as having Scenic qualities. This system was created by the Florida Vincent National Wildlife Refuges; Wakulla • Seventy-three resources, or 66%, are Freshwater Fish and Wildlife Conservation County Board of County Commissioners; identified as having Recreational qualities. Commission (FWC), using satellite images taken in 2003. The FWC mapped the entire Cities of Apalachicola, Carrabelle, and • Forty-four resources, or 40%, are identified state, ending up with 43 categories: 26 Sopchoppy; Wakulla County Tourist as having Historic qualities. natural and semi-natural vegetation types, Development Council and Economic • Forty-seven resources, or 42%, are 16 types of disturbed lands (e.g., agriculture, Development Council; Chambers of identified as having Cultural qualities.

95 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

urban, mining), and 1 category for open Intrinsic Resource Assessment water. Of the 43 categories, 26 are found Matrix along the Big Bend Scenic Byway in Wakulla and Franklin counties: 17 natural The Intrinsic Resource Assessment Matrix and semi-natural vegetation types, 8 kinds identifies the 111 resources of the Big Bend of disturbed lands, and open water. Scenic Byway within the following set of criteria:

checked because it is an Exceptional The first resource listed in the Matrix for Feature of the Byway. All four Universal Coastal Trail East is the St. Marks Unit–St. Criteria (UC) are listed because this Marks National Wildlife Refuge & Visitors resource meets the following FDOT Center. DA is checked because it is requirements: accessible directly from the corridor. E is

96 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

• #1 resource(s) must be visible from the internationally recognized as home to to provide wintering habitat for migratory roadway; more than 300 species of birds. birds. • #4 the corridor must exhibit significant, • IR-Scenic: The drive through the Refuge • IR-Archaeological: The Refuge houses exceptional, and distinctive features of offers numerous scenic vistas-freshwater numerous sites and features which can be the region it traverses; ponds with herons and egrets, expanses of accessed from trails, including Spanish • #5 the roadway provides access to the marsh with hardwood hammocks, a quarries, salt vat sites, and shell mounds— resource(s); and lighthouse on Apalachee Bay, etc. one of which rests under the Visitors • #6 a majority of the corridor must exhibit • IR-Recreational: Opportunities include Center. scenic or heritage qualifying resource(s). birding, photography, wildlife viewing, boating, fishing, hiking, biking, and All 111 Intrinsic Resources are profiled These resources must be as continuous as horseback riding. using the criteria listed above. They are organized by Trail and are identified on the possible throughout the corridor. All of the • IR-Historical: The Refuge is the site of the accompanying Intrinsic Resource Maps qualifying resource definitions are checked, St. Marks Lighthouse, which was built in (Figures 3.5 – 3.10). 46 resources are profiled because the St. Marks National Wildlife 1832. Refuge exhibits characteristics of each. in Criterion #4 in the Designation Criteria • IR-Cultural: The Visitors Center houses section of this chapter. • IR-Natural: The Refuge exhibits an excellent natural history museum and numerous natural features—pine the Refuge has strong ties to a rich wiregrass, coastal marshes, islands, tidal cultural past with artifacts ranging from creeks and estuaries of seven North “cat-faced” turpentine trees and logging Florida rivers, is home to a diverse mill sites to seineyard fishing sites, and community of plant and animal life, and is water impoundments established in 1931

97 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

98 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

99 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

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101 Intrinsic Resource Assessment and Designation Criteria

102 Chapter 4:

Corridor Vision

Florida Scenic Highway and distinctive Big Visitors stop at scenic pull-offs, boardwalks, Ole Oprey hoedowns at the historic Bend Scenic Byway signs greet visitors as and observation towers along the coastal Sopchoppy School, and great music by they enter the Wakulla and Franklin County trail where rich marshes, seagrass beds, renowned local musicians at numerous corridor of the Big Bend Scenic Byway. clam aquaculture, oyster harvesting, and venues. Visitors also save some time to other maritime practices are interpreted, and browse through galleries and antique shops visit the vibrant working waterfronts, and take their children to interpretive sites, galleries, fish markets, and seafood such as San Marcos de Apalache Historic restaurants that share the shoreline with State Park, the John Gorrie and Orman moss-draped oaks. Photographers are House Historic State Museums, Camp impressed by the varied scenery and try to Gordon Johnston World War II Museum, photograph dolphins as they chase schools Natural Bridge Battlefield State Park, of fish in the shallows while Great Blue historic Fort Gadsden, and the St. Marks Herons stand like sentries ready to defend and Crooked River Lighthouses. their territories along the shore. Tourists who visit the Byway during the fall and spring, Others who enjoy getting out can hike the are treated to spectacular butterfly and bird Florida National Scenic Trail to the migrations, and even try “tagging” “Cathedral of the Palms,” bike the numerous hummingbirds and monarch butterflies at paved and off-road trails, including the 16- Offering two distinct drives—the Forest and the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. mile Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad Coastal Trails reveal unique cultural sites Trail, try bird-watching along the coast, and spectacular natural settings in an “Old” History buffs trace bygone days of the picnicking at Otter Lake, or beachcombing Florida atmosphere. Knowledgeable, cotton, turpentine and lumber trade along among majestic dunes and sandy coves at friendly staff at Welcome Centers along both signed walkways that wind past railroad Bald Point and St. George Island State Park, trails orient visitors to special attractions, depots, ports, historic homes, and buildings. Mashes Sands and Carrabelle Beach, or St. activities, and services of the area. Attractive town squares and plazas Vincent National Wildlife Refuge. encourage locals and guests to relax and Travelers are impressed by the broad enjoy the view. Folks can sample the expanse of trees, native vegetation, and “Official Big Bend Scenic Byway Sandwich” wildlife-friendly wildflowers that line the or order fresh seafood served any way they Byway. Multi-use pathways and greenways choose as they watch charter boats, invite travelers to hike and bike the rural crabbers, and net-draped shrimp boats ply countryside that connects colorful offshore waters, or they can come aboard communities and distinctive seaside and catch their own meal. Exhibits and live developments to thousands of acres of demonstrations of the life of watermen and protected public lands. Drivers slow down at women await those who want to learn more wildlife crossings in hopes of seeing a at the Big Bend Maritime Center and the Florida Black Bear, bobcat, grey fox, and Apalachicola Maritime Heritage Museum. other animals. Evenings along the Byway are enlivened by plays at the historic Dixie Theater, Grand

105 Corridor Vision

and ground orchids—ablaze in bright hues endangered Gopher Tortoise and Red- of orange, yellow, reds, and blues—and a Cockaded Woodpecker depend on fire. dwarf Cypress dome where time seems to stand still. Forest Trail East follows the The Big Bend Scenic Byway has something Wakulla River through mixed hardwood special for every traveler. The Byway’s forests of Magnolia, Holly, and Dogwood. family-oriented, pet friendly, down-home The terrain here shifts from sandy soils to feel keeps visitors coming back year after limestone “Karst” topography, dotted with year. From St. Marks, Panacea, and sinkhole lakes and fresh water springs. Sopchoppy to St. Theresa, Carrabelle, Visitors flock to the world famous Wakulla Eastpoint, St. George Island, and Springs State Park and Lodge, to see the Apalachicola, visitors find nature-based inns, B&B’s, historic hotels, and camping spots to fit every budget. And there are But that’s not all! There is another side to knowledgeable outfitters ready to organize the Big Bend Scenic Byway where its more any trip they desire, from catching scallops primitive soul is revealed. Hidden treasures to fishing or diving reefs or springs. But within its forests, springs, sinkholes, lakes, everyone agrees that it’s the natural and savannahs await those who explore the splendor, acknowledged as one of the most Forest Trails. Forest Trail West follows the productive and biologically significant in the Apalachicola River, through the Tate’s Hell world, that makes the Big Bend Scenic State Forest, Apalachicola River Wildlife and Byway a very special destination. Environmental Area, and Apalachicola National Forest. Forest Trail Central follows the Ochlockonee River through the Ochlockonee River State Park and springs made famous by Tarzan movies and Apalachicola National Forest. Both are lined other films such as The Creature from the with jungle-like hardwood hammocks, Black Lagoon. Here families enjoy a cool dip swamps, bays, and streams. Easily in the springs and a guided boat tour for up- accessible kayak and canoe trails beckon close encounters with alligators, turtles, ibis, visitors to explore its riches. Camping spots ospreys, ducks, herons, and egrets. accommodate those who wish to extend their stay to hike trails or try their hand at Visitors are surprised to learn that the fishing the bays and inlets. Hunting deer, Byway is a national model for prescribed wild pig, and turkey are also popular in- fire, and learn about this forest management season sports. tool at interpretive “fire” stops. Attractive educational displays illustrate how the Travelers who leave their car and walk the Long-Leaf Pine and Wiregrass ecosystem Byway’s wet prairies will discover clouds of and keystone species such as the butterflies and rare pitcher plants, sun dews,

106 Chapter 5:

Goals, Objectives and Strategies

The Goals, Objectives and Strategies further designation, protection, and/or Strategy 1.1.7: Work with local, regional, developed for the Big Bend Scenic Byway in improvement. and state authorities on the preservation of Franklin and Wakulla Counties were based scenic views and public access to rivers and on the Initial Goals and Preliminary Action Strategy 1.1.2: Collaborate with officials bays. Plan from the Eligibility Phase of the and organizations on plans to restore the program (see Appendix H). The Franklin and Crooked River and St. Marks Lighthouses Strategy 1.1.8: Work with utility companies Wakulla CAGs documented the action plan for public access. and local officials to move utility poles or items from Corridor Impression Surveys, place them underground where they Strategy 1.1.3: Encourage appropriate Field Inventories and work by CAG teams. obstruct or detract from scenic views of the repair, upgrading, and painting of homes These preliminary ideas are the basis for the corridor. and buildings in historic districts. strategies outlined in this chapter. The Strategy 1.1.9: Create additional Viewshed objectives and strategies directly support the areas through selective vegetation clearing. Vision (Chapter 4) and Story of the Byway (Chapter 6). Objective 1.2: Promote and Support Prescribed Burning of Goal 1 – Preservation and Forest Areas and Other Responsible Enhancement of Intrinsic Intrinsic Resource Management Resources Practices. The Big Bend Scenic Byway shall maintain the character of the Big Bend region through Strategy 1.2.1: Collaborate with national, preservation and enrichment of historic sites state, county, local, and private owners of and natural areas; encouragement of forest areas to encourage periodic prescribed prescribed burning and other responsible burning, and provide improved resource management practices; promotion Strategy 1.1.4: Seek ways, including interpretation and public information on of native vegetation for landscaping; use of possible construction of an observation ecological and economic values of the appropriate setbacks and screening in tower, to open a view of Spring Creek “Boil” practice. commercial and residential development to visitors. Strategy 1.2.2: Work with appropriate state, areas; protection of wildlife; and county, and local authorities, as well as improvement of recreational facilities, Strategy 1.1.5: Cooperate with public and developers and home builders, to promote interpretive sites, and access to scenic views. private owners on the restoration of selected older buildings for tourist use. FireWise practices and wider understanding of individual responsibility for prevention of Objective 1.1: Preserve and Enrich Strategy 1.1.6: Cooperate with public and destructive wildfires. Historic Sites and Natural Areas for private sources on restoration of Panacea Public Access. and Newport Mineral Springs for public Strategy 1.2.3: Encourage construction and access, including provision of an historically expansion of central sewage and water Strategy 1.1.1: Support completion of an appropriate lodging facility. treatment systems in residential and inventory of major historic structures and commercial areas along the corridor as well sites along corridor, defining those requiring

109 Goals, Objectives and Strategies

as, where appropriate, upgraded and Strategy 1.3.5: Encourage county and local (e.g., Bald Point and Ochlockonee River improved septic systems. governments to adopt ordinances on State Parks). landscaping, tree planting and protection Strategy 1.2.4: Work with state, county, and that support beautification efforts. Strategy 1.4.3: Support state purchase of local authorities to improve stormwater land to increase intrinsic resource protection control practices. Strategy 1.3.6: Establish a Byway-themed along the corridor (e.g., property across from signage plan for wildflower sites in the Ochlockonee River State Park). Strategy 1.2.5: Educate property owners corridor. and visitors on the importance of vegetation Objective 1.5: Protect Wildlife. management to help minimize pollution Objective 1.4: Establish Strategy 1.5.1: Work with state, regional, runoffs to surrounding natural areas, such as Appropriate Setbacks and rivers and bays. county, and local authorities as well as Landscape Screening in Areas of nonprofit wildlife and environmental groups Objective 1.3: Promote Use of Commercial and Residential to raise the awareness of wildlife protection Native Vegetation in Public and Development. techniques in transportation and land development planning. Private Landscaping. Strategy 1.5.2: Support establishment of Strategy 1.3.1: Collaborate with state, reduced speed zones and other traffic- county, and local authorities as well as calming measures in areas of known bear private landowners to promote use of native and other wildlife trails and crossings. plants and trees in landscaping as well as, where appropriate, removal of exotic and Strategy 1.5.3: Collaborate with invasive species. transportation planners and developers on methods to improve sight distance and off- Strategy 1.3.2: Encourage planting of road obstacles to reduce the potential for wildflowers along rights of way, in medians, wildlife road kill. and adjacent to public and private properties. Strategy 1.5.4: Cooperate with law Strategy 1.4.1: Work with county and local enforcement to support reduced, more strict Strategy 1.3.3: Support coordination of governments as well as public and private enforcement of, speed limits on area plans for mowing along rights of way to landowners to promote the establishment of highways and roads—as well as within protect wildflowers, promote natural appropriate setbacks and landscape parks, reserves, and refuges—to reduce road reseeding, and expand access for butterflies, screening along the corridor to protect and kill. birds, and other wildlife. enhance scenic and water views. Strategy 1.5.5: Encourage the posting of Strategy 1.3.4: Help educate private Strategy 1.4.2: Cooperate with private land more widespread, more attractive, and more property owners on the desirability and owners to establish conservation easements imaginative interpretive signage to educate value of butterfly gardens, hummingbird or use other tools for the further the traveling public about the presence, and feeders, and other wildlife-friendly features. development and expansion of key resources value, of wildlife in the region.

110 Goals, Objectives and Strategies

Strategy 1.5.6: Support planting of native including passing lanes, pull-off areas, and Strategy 2.1.6: Encourage coordination of trees and bushes that provide wildlife food parking sites, with a design and scale regional transportation planning with FDOT, and forage to expand opportunities for appropriate to the region. local governments, the MPO, US 98 wildlife habitat and viewing. Corridor Authority, Regional Planning Strategy 2.1.2: Collaborate with state, Council, and land management entities on Objective 1.6: Enhance regional, county, and local authorities to regionally significant projects. improve connectivity between and among Recreational Facilities and Scenic existing trail networks. Strategy 2.1.7: Encourage enhancement Sites. projects along the Byway corridor to improve Strategy 2.1.3: Work with regional, state, Strategy 1.6.1: Improve signage for, and bicycle and pedestrian connectivity and county, and local authorities to identify public access to, area attractions, parking, facilities. major intersections and corridor segments and facilities. that require improvement and enhancement Objective 2.2: Cooperate with Strategy 1.6.2: Encourage more widespread (such as the intersections of US 319 and US Counties and Local Communities. dissemination and use of The Guide to the 98 in Franklin and Wakulla Counties). Big Bend Scenic Byway. Strategy 2.2.1: Work with counties and local Strategy 2.1.4: Encourage and support authorities on the construction and Strategy 1.6.3: Work with authorities of area construction and improvement of public improvement of pedestrian walkways, parks, forests, refuges, and recreation sites restrooms and picnic sites along area bridges, parking and rest areas. to establish standard Byway-themed roadways. signage, interpretation, and public Strategy 2.2.2: Support appropriate paving, information. as well as directional and interpretive signage on currently unpaved roads (such as Old Plank Road and Wakulla Beach Road) GOAL 2 – Improvement of that provide important access to scenic and Transportation and Safety recreational sites in forests, parks, and The Big Bend Scenic Byway shall assure refuges. both residents and visitors safe and Strategy 2.2.3: Support consistent clean-up convenient access to and from sites along of roadways and right-of-ways. the Byway, by varied modes of travel, as well as improved signage, parking, and Strategy 2.2.4: Support permitting of appropriate speed limits for the enjoyment, electric golf carts and other alternative forms understanding, and appreciation of all of transportation in refuges and small towns, intrinsic resources. Strategy 2.1.5: Facilitate planning of when requested by local residents. interpretive sites, encouraging consistently- Strategy 2.2.5: Encourage local Objective 2.1: Support Regional themed logos, designs, and styles for both governments to remove non-conforming and Transportation Planning. the coastal and forest trails of the Byway. non-permitted signs. Strategy 2.1.1: Promote roadway construction and associated improvements,

111 Goals, Objectives and Strategies

Strategy 2.2.6: Identify segments of the Objective 3.1: Include Public Input Strategy 3.1.6: Ensure non-motorized Byway, currently not designated as Adopt-a- in the Expansion and Improvements connectivity between the GF&A Bike Trail, Road corridors, for litter removal. the Ochlockonee Bay Trail, and St. James of Area Greenway & Trail Island. Objective 2.3: Improve Corridor Connectivity. Strategy 3.1.7: Evaluate potential public Safety. Strategy 3.1.1: Develop and, where staging areas at trail heads and other Strategy 2.3.1: Encourage building possible, expand the existing network of convenient locations to facilitate public setbacks and landscaping closer to the bicycle and hiking trails along the corridor. access to trail networks. roadway as a traffic-calming measure. Strategy 3.1.8: Work with landowners, Strategy 2.3.2: Improve pedestrian developers, and officials to establish non- crossings at signalized and un-signalized motorized greenways/habitat corridors to locations. connect public lands along the corridor. Strategy 2.3.3: Improve capacity, provide Objective 3.2: Build Consensus alternative transportation facilities, and from Public and Private Preferences encourage parallel routes in areas of high- volume traffic congestion wherever to Improve Signage in and General practical. Appearance of Byway Communities. Strategy 3.2.1: Work with local GOAL 3 – Expansion of communities to establish “gateways” and/or Community Support and Strategy 3.1.2: Work with St. Marks attractive welcome signs at Byway entry Participation National Wildlife Refuge and others to points. establish a marked bike trail along The Management Plan for the Big Bend Strategy 3.2.2: Encourage incentives/ Lighthouse Road. Scenic Byway shall be community-driven opportunities for local signage that meet and administered through innovative, open Strategy 3.1.3: Encourage completion of the business and directional needs while public/private partnerships to identify and St. George Island bike trail to the entrance helping to maintain a distinctive “Old achieve common goals such as development of the State Park. Florida” atmosphere and rural character of greenways, hiking and bicycle trails, boat wherever possible. trails through sensitive seagrass beds, more Strategy 3.1.4: Encourage improvement attractive streetscaping, signage, and and expansion of bicycle trails in Wakulla Strategy 3.2.3: Encourage improvements in walkways as well as preservation of the Springs State Park, Apalachicola National streetscaping such as compatible crosswalk area’s maritime heritage, traditional Forest, and Tate’s Hell State Forest. markings, street lighting, sidewalks and architectural styles, and community walkways (possibly using oyster shells, character. Strategy 3.1.5: Promote equestrian trails gravel, or other water-permeable materials along the corridor as well as related stables to minimize runoff), benches and rest areas, and support facilities. etc.

112 Goals, Objectives and Strategies

Strategy 3.2.4: Encourage creation of “town unique natural resources through Strategy 4.1.4: Improve interpretation of centers” where local residents and visitors interpretive displays, live demonstrations, Cherokee Sink. can come together and enjoy shops, festivals, museums, special events, and other services, food, entertainment, conversation, media. Strategy 4.1.5: Provide interpretation on and refreshments. smaller, less known historic sites, like Bethel. Strategy 3.2.5: Support goal of “walkable communities” wherever possible, potentially Strategy 4.1.6: Provide interpretation with provision of town centers, connectivity, of turpentining industry and and transportation alternatives, such as remaining “cat-face” pines. walking, bicycles, carriages, jitneys, etc. Strategy 4.1.7: Provide interpretation Strategy 3.2.6: Build on existing efforts to of the history of Byway communities. improve working waterfronts, offering Strategy 4.1.8: Provide handicap options for tourist observation and visits access to, and interpretation of, where feasible. “Cathedral of the Palms” and other key Strategy 3.2.7: Promote the beautification of destinations along the Florida Trail. intersections and use of screening to hide Strategy 4.1.9: Encourage and assist utilities from public view. St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge in Strategy 3.2.8: Improve directional signage providing public access to and for access to intrinsic resources. interpretation of Goose Creek Seineyard, possibly with observation Strategy 3.2.9: Improve scale and location Objective 4.1: Expand Interpretive tower, picnic facility, periodic reenactment of of directional sign for St. George Island on Displays & Improve Informational “Seineyard Days,” and opportunity for US 98 in Eastpoint. Signage. concessionaire to serve smoked mullet. Strategy 3.2.10: Improve landscaping and Strategy 4.1.1: Work with county and local Strategy 4.1.10: Explore possible uses of pedestrian and bicycle facilities along both authorities as well as administrators of old Fire Towers on SR 65 and US 319 as sides of the John Gorrie Bridge to parks, forests, and refuges to provide interpretive sites. Apalachicola. improved and expanded interpretive Strategy 4.1.11: Encourage establishment displays throughout the corridor. of new Black bear displays along corridor. GOAL 4 – Provision of Strategy 4.1.2: Give more prominence to Education and Telling the signage and interpretation for Dwarf Objective 4.2: Promote Byway Corridor Story Cypress Dome. through Annual Festivals and The Big Bend Scenic Byway shall offer Strategy 4.1.3: Provide interpretation of Celebrations. residents and visitors alike educational Red-cockaded woodpecker tree banding. Strategy 4.2.1: Establish Scenic Byway sub- insights into the area’s rich history and group to coordinate scheduling of annual

113 Goals, Objectives and Strategies

festivals and events to avoid overlap and attractive facilities, accommodations, and corridor as well as associated shops and competition insofar as possible. services as well as clean and accessible restaurants. beaches, green spaces, and opportunities for Strategy 4.2.2: Expand Wakulla Birding and appropriate recreational activities such as Strategy 5.2.2: Coordinate with area Wildlife Festival to a full week. wildlife watching, boating, hunting, and tourism development councils and local fishing. businesses to promote nature- and heritage- Strategy 4.2.3: Coordinate promotion of all based tourism. Byway events and festivals and maintain a Objective 5.1: Improve Public common calendar. Strategy 5.2.3: Establish Big Bend Scenic Facilities throughout Byway Corridor. Byway entry points and information centers Strategy 4.2.4: Encourage establishment of Strategy 5.1.1: Encourage construction of at appropriate locations along the corridor. new festivals, such as a Seaside Bear more public restrooms along the Byway as Festival at Ochlockonee River and Bald well as within parks, forests, and refuges. Objective 5.3: Improve Public Point State Parks or a Byway-wide rummage Services. sale. Strategy 5.1.2: Improve and/or establish observation points in key areas along the Strategy 5.3.1: Collaborate with local Objective 4.3: Facilitate and Byway. governments, area Chambers of Commerce, Promote Byway Museums. Economic Development Councils, and Strategy 5.1.3: Improve public access to Tourist Development Councils on provision Strategy 4.3.1: Encourage and support waterfront areas and docks for visitors. of a wider spectrum of shopping establishment of a Big Bend Maritime opportunities along the corridor. Center in Panacea, and an Apalachicola Strategy 5.1.4: Explore ways to encourage Maritime Heritage Museum. greater use of Recreation Areas throughout Strategy 5.3.2: Work with the newly the Byway for boating, fishing, picnicking, established Tallahassee Community College Strategy 4.3.2: Encourage and support etc. Service Center in Crawfordville on the establishment of new facilities, such as a development of training programs to Butterfly Farm. Strategy 5.1.5: Work with local residents to improve local skills for the promotion of clean up and improve the town of Spring heritage- and nature-based tourism. Strategy 4.3.3: Emphasize historic Creek to encourage tourism. museums and activity centers in Scenic Strategy 5.3.3: Collaborate with local Byway promotional materials. Strategy 5.1.6: Construct a boardwalk along business owners and Chambers of the shore of Dickerson Bay from the Wakulla Commerce on mentoring programs for new GOAL 5 – Promotion of Welcome Center to Woolley Park in Panacea. tourism entrepreneurs, such as outfitters, guides, etc. Economic Development and Objective 5.2: Provide Expanded Job Creation Through Tourism Tourist Accommodations. The Big Bend Scenic Byway shall encourage Strategy 5.2.1: Encourage the nature- and heritage-based tourism as a tool establishment of new accommodations (bed for sustainable economic development and and breakfasts, motels, and hotels) along the shall provide travelers and their pets with

114 Goals, Objectives and Strategies

Objective 5.4: Expand Public Strategy 5.4.7: Seek designation as a Strategy 6.1.4: Monitor and periodically Understanding of Scenic Byway National Scenic Byway, with inclusion of the adjust the Action Plan to reflect current Leon County corridor, as soon as possible. realities and opportunities and report to Attractions. FDOT on problems and progress in a timely Strategy 5.4.1: Promote family-friendly and GOAL 6 – Administration and manner. pet-friendly character of Big Bend Scenic Byway and its major attractions. Coordination of Byway Objective 6.2: Coordinate Actions Activities with All Stakeholders. Strategy 5.4.2: Provide information on and The Big Bend Scenic Byway Corridor directions to interesting sites located outside Strategy 6.2.1: Involve interested and Management Entity shall serve as the the Byway corridor but easily accessible affected government officials, citizens, caretaker of the Big Bend Scenic Byway by from it, including Leon Sinks Geologic Site, landowners, businesses, and public land ensuring that the Action Plan is executed, Natural Bridge Battlefield State Historic managers in the implementation strategy. and corridor activities are monitored and Site, Crawfordville Courthouse, implemented in accordance with the Crawfordville Historic Museum, Bald Point Strategy 6.2.2: Build formal and informal Corridor Management Plan and that such State Park, Ft. Gadsden Historical Site, etc. public/private partnerships to implement activities are consistent with the Florida individual action items. Strategy 5.4.3: Promote the strong tradition Scenic Highway program requirements. in the area of fine musicians, performing all Strategy 6.2.3: Develop a Big Bend Scenic styles from Country and Western to Rock. Byway website to provide status information, contacts, and announcements of upcoming Strategy 5.4.4: Highlight the extraordinary events and activities. opportunities for nature photography along the corridor, from rare and endangered Strategy 6.2.4: Develop a Corridor Master species of flowers and plants to migrating Plan to address corridor-wide plans for butterflies, White squirrels, Red-cockaded landscaping, signing, trail networks, scenic woodpeckers, Alligators, Black bears, and viewing areas, public staging areas, many others. interpretation, wildflower sites, and Objective 6.1: Establish a Sound gateways. Strategy 5.4.5: Target some marketing effort Administrative Structure. on private pilots and charter plane service, Strategy 6.2.5: Encourage participation of emphasizing the easy availability of the Strategy 6.1.1: Conduct meetings “in the regional governmental entities, regional Wakulla County and Franklin County Sunshine” to encourage transparency and private entities, and management agencies Airports and the opportunity for fly-in visits, public participation. with multi-jurisdictional resources on all charter fishing and hunting expeditions, and corridor-wide projects. Strategy 6.1.2: Develop a Work Plan and seasonal festivals and celebrations. corresponding Fundraising Strategy to Strategy 5.4.6: Promote the Byway through implement the Plan. existing and new internet-based Strategy 6.1.3: Establish committees to applications. address specific Action Plan items.

115

Chapter 6:

Corridor Story

Big Bend Scenic Byway Story countryside that is “Old Florida.” Go hiking, kayaking, biking, or birding in The Story of the Big Bend Scenic Byway has two National Wildlife Refuges, a been revised from an original two-page National Forest, two State Forests, narrative developed during the Eligibility a State Wildlife and Phase. The story will be condensed further Environmental Area, or six State for marketing purposes by the CME Parks. Charter a fishing boat or following approval for designation. dive for scallops. The Big Bend is Open the door to a world of memories: slower-paced, relaxed, and full of Florida’s Big Bend Scenic Byway is waiting surprising values. Smiles and for you! Whether you visit the Forest Trail friendly people are the norm. You rich with pine forests, hardwood hammocks, won’t be disappointed…rain or grasslands, streams and rivers, or the shine. Come make memories! Coastal Trail of salt marshes, bays, sand dunes, and beaches, it’s the natural place to be. Over 200 miles of wonderland inhabited by birds, butterflies, animals and wildflowers are yours to explore. Trace the footsteps of Apalachee and Creek Indians, Spanish Conquistadors, British and American Troops, Settlers, Cotton or Timber Barons, and Hollywood Producers through historic markers, interpretive displays, parks, museums, forts, depots, lighthouses, and historic buildings. Discover our rich maritime heritage at historic ports where brick warehouses once stood sentinel over bustling waterfronts. In yesteryear the warehouses were filled with goods bound for New England and Europe. Today these picturesque structures house galleries and antique shops welcoming visitors from around the globe. Savor Florida’s freshest seafood while watching shrimp, crab, and oyster boats work the coastal waters. Enjoy an evening jam session, play, or “grand ole opry” revue in an historic theatre, school or once private home. Experience the diversity of scenery, small towns, and rural

119

Chapter 7:

Corridor Management Entity

The Corridor Management Entity (CME) of the Big Bend Scenic Byway will build on the work of the Franklin and Wakulla CAGs and this Corridor Management Plan to ensure that the Action Plan is accurately implemented, monitored, and updated.

The CME for the Big Bend Scenic Byway was developed in advance of the Florida Scenic Highway Program requirement. The Franklin and Wakulla CAGs began to CME,” is fortunate to draw participation establish CME membership early as part of from the existing CAG, local municipalities, • Franklin County Tourist Development and business partners. Its membership Council includes: • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission • Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce • Florida Department of Environmental • Apalachicola Bay Waterfronts Florida Protection, State Park Service Partnership • Florida Department of Transportation • Apalachee Land Conservancy • Florida Department of Agriculture & • Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Consumer Services, Division of Forestry Reserve • Inn at Wildwood • Apalachee Regional Planning Council • Keep Franklin County Beautiful • Big Bend Maritime Center • Keep Wakulla County Beautiful • Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce • Capital Region Transportation Planning • City of Apalachicola Agency • City of Carrabelle their innovative Community Participation • National Forests in Florida Program (see Chapter 8 Community • City of Sopchoppy • Northwest Florida Water Management Participation Program). The intent for • City of St. Marks District forming a CME early was to educate, • First Coast Builders Association • Panacea Waterfronts Florida Partnership inform, and engage potential CME members • Franklin County in the development of the Big Bend Scenic • Franklin County Corridor Byway Action Plan. Engaging CME Advocacy Group members early in the process allowed members to develop an understanding of the • Franklin County Emergency Action Plan and guide the implementation Management of projects. • Franklin County Realtors Association The Corridor Management Entity, formally known as the “Big Bend Scenic Byway

123 Corridor Management Entity

• St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge 2006. Although the corridor will not be Vice President - Cathleen Briggs • St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge designated by that time, the CME has Secretary, Franklin County Big Bend Scenic • St. Joe Company already discussed projects such as getting a Byway CAG; Member, Leon County Big • St. Joe Land Company trademark for the Big Bend Scenic Byway Bend Scenic Byway CAG; Recreation logo and seeking National Designation as • St. Joe Foundation Manager, USDA Forest Service- interim priorities before a detailed work plan Apalachicola National Forest; Landscape • USDA Forest Service, Apalachicola is established. Architect National Forest • US 98 Corridor Authority (Wakulla and Secretary - Bill Lowrie Franklin Reps) Executive Director, Florida Foresight; • Wakulla County President, Sopchoppy Preservation and • Wakulla County Chamber of Commerce Improvement Association; Principal • Wakulla County Corridor Advocacy Group Organizer, Sopchoppy Worm Gruntin’ • Wakulla County Economic Development Festival Council • Wakulla County Emergency Management Treasurer - David Butler • Wakulla County Realtors Association Board Member, Franklin County Big Bend • Wakulla County Tourist Development Scenic Byway CAG; Member, Carrabelle Council Chamber of Commerce; Director, Camp Gordon Johnston Association; Senior Vice President, Gulf State Community Bank

See Appendix J for sample CME meeting agendas, sign in sheets, minutes and notices.

Big Bend Scenic Byway CME Officers: President - Bonnie Holub Current Chair, Wakulla County Big Bend Scenic Byway CAG; Director, Wakulla The CME was officially formed on May 31st, County Tourist Development Council; Board 2006 with 24 members signing the CME Member, Panacea Waterfronts Florida Agreement and Bylaws (see Appendix I). Partnership, Co-Director, Wakulla Welcome The members voted on officers and set a Center; Board Member, Blue Crab Festival date for their first meeting in September Steering Committee

124 Chapter 8:

Community Participation Program

Throughout the designation phase, the CPP has been integrated with the development of the Corridor Management Plan (CMP) and will continue after the anticipated Florida Scenic Highway designation.

Members of the BBSB CAG are representative of Byway communities and include a diverse cross section of local officials, state and federal agency personnel, local residents, and business owners. See page vi—x for a current list of CAG Members. The list of 80+ actively involved Franklin/Wakulla County citizens illustrates the success of the CPP. Community Involvement Collaboration Dixie Partington, Franklin County CAG Chair, and Bonnie Holub, Wakulla County In the past six months, the CAG and CME Following the Designation Training CAG Chair, now serve as Co-Chairs for the have sought public input and garnered Workshop conducted for the Wakulla and combined CAG. support for the CMP. To facilitate public Franklin County CAGs on November 9, presentations, the CAG worked with FDOT 2005, by FDOT District Three Scenic consultants (Kimley-Horn and Associates Highways Coordinator, Laura and Applied Sustainability Enterprises) to Haddock, the CAGs agreed to produce a graphic illustration of the CMP in proceed toward designation a poster format (see Executive Summary of together, as a consolidated Big the Action Plan). Bend Scenic Byway CAG (BBSB CAG). The primary reason for The richly illustrated joining forces was to implement poster was, and still an effective regional Community is, being used to Participation Program (CPP) with communicate the Big these goals: Bend Scenic Byway Vision, Goals, and 1) Promote community Action Plan to the awareness public in a user- 2) Build broader consensus friendly format. The 3) Obtain public input CPP tool has helped 4) Foster continued public community members involvement in the preservation and understand the role of enhancement of the Big Bend Scenic Scenic Highway Byway corridor Designation and the CMP to protect and

127 Community Participation Program

enhance the intrinsic resources along the In addition, the CMP Poster was displayed Identity; a supplement to the Tallahassee Byway corridor. Elements of the poster and presented to the public for review and Magazine. The article titled, “A Natural include: comment at the following regional events: Showcase: A 220-Mile Trail Through the • Overview • March 17, at The Nature-Based Summit at Forgotten Coast’s Natural Wonders Soon May Become a Reality” features interviews • Vision for the BBSB The Inn at Wildwood with CAG members, highlights area • April 8, at the annual Worm Gruntin’ • Action Plan resources and discusses the designation Festival in Sopchoppy, an event that draws • What the BBSB Does Not Do process. • Benefits of the BBSB thousands of participants from throughout the region and state • Goals & Objectives The Big Bend Scenic Byway CAGs also • April 18, at the Panacea Waterfronts • BBSB Map participated in the Florida Scenic Highways Florida Partnership Workshop Program State Conference in Cocoa Beach • Story • May 6, at the Blue Crab Festival in in May 2006. A panel consisting of Bonnie Panacea Holub, Pam Portwood, Diane Delaney and • May 12, at the Florida State Scenic Oxo Slayer presented “Five Lessons from Highways Conference in Cocoa Beach the Big Bend Scenic Byway” and

The CAGs developed press releases for the media and had great local coverage on the Big Bend Scenic Byway in a variety of media. Jason Dehart, reporter for the Tallahassee Magazine received a Scenic Highway Program Summary press release from the CAGs and interviewed Scenic Over a three-month period (March-May Highway Coordinator Laura Haddock. An 2006), the CMP Poster was presented by the article was developed for the May–June CAG to the public for review and comment issue of the Forgotten Coast – Attracting New at regularly scheduled meetings of Growth While Preserving Our Old Florida organizations such as: participated in lively discussion on the • Chambers of Commerce Byway corridor and CPP successes (see • Tourist Development Councils Appendix K for the conference • Women’s Clubs presentation). • Management Agencies • Waterfronts Florida Partnership The BBSB CAG developed a Byway logo in an effort to brand the corridor and any print • County and City Commission Meetings material developed as part of the CPP. The logo includes elements of the Coastal and Forest Trails and was developed with National Designation in mind. If designated

128 Community Participation Program

• Brought together a broader range of MARCH 29, 2006 community participants CME MEETING • Educated CME members about the Scenic 2:00 - 4:00 PM Highway program and the extensive TCC Wakulla Service Center, Crawfordville background work done by the CAG • Enabled CME members to understand APRIL 26, 2006 and support the designation process CAG MEETING • Encouraged CME members to review and 2:00 - 4:00 PM comment on elements of the Draft CMP Welcome Center, Panacea • Developed a foundation for continued MAY 31, 2006 collaboration and partnership among CME MEETING members of the CME 2:00 - 4:00 PM as a National Scenic Byway, the corridor The CAG established a six-month meeting TCC Wakulla Service Center, Crawfordville schedule—alternating between monthly would receive national marketing and Together, the CAG and CME have meetings of the CAG and the CME—during promotional benefits. Inclusion of the state developed a unified Story, Vision, Goals, which the BBSB designation application name, ‘Florida’ on the logo was included to Objectives, Strategies, and Action Plan for would be finalized (see meeting schedule distinguish the corridor from other ‘Big the Wakulla and Franklin segments of the below). All meetings were publicized Bend’ areas around the nation. Big Bend Scenic Byway (presented in this through announcements in newspapers document). Formation of the Corridor and/or flyers to encourage public Management Entity attendance. The combined membership of the newly formed CME broadly represents the groups The first action of the CAG was to form a Schedule of CAG/CME Meetings and individuals that have a stake in the preliminary Corridor Management Entity corridor’s designation (see Chapter 7 (CME) to help develop and expand support NOVEMBER 30, 2005 CAG MEETING Corridor Management Entity). Through work for the Corridor Management Plan (CMP). on the Corridor Management Plan they Though this task is usually accomplished at 10:00-NOON Library-Carrabelle have solidified the significance of the end of the designation application community outreach and involvement. See process, the CAG felt that early formation supporting CPP materials in Appendix K. would lead to more productive and timely JANUARY 25, 2006 CME MEETING The Big Bend Scenic Byway CME will implementation of the Action Plan. The CAG continue to use the CAGs, CME meetings, brainstormed a list of all groups, agencies, 2:00 - 4:00 PM FDOT-Tallahassee and CME member organizations to engage entities, and organizations that have a stake and include public participation in Byway- in the corridor’s future and issued an related events and activities in the future. invitation to attend a ‘Form the CME” FEBRUARY 22, 2006 meeting. This strategy was highly CAG MEETING successful. Early formation of a CME has: 2:00 - 4:00 PM Welcome Center-Panacea

129

Chapter 9:

Local Support

• Apalachicola Traffic Safety Committee • Sopchoppy Preservation and Improvement • Camp Gordon Johnston Association Association • Carrabelle Area Chamber of Commerce • St. George Island Civic Club • Carrabelle Lighthouse Association • St. George Island State Park • Coastal Optimist Club • St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge • Dixie Theatre • St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge • Florida Department of Agriculture and • Shields Marina Consumer Services-Florida Division of • Sweet Magnolia B&B Forestry • USDA-Apalachicola National Forest • Florida State University Marine • Wakulla County Chamber of Commerce The combined Big Bend Scenic Byway Laboratory • Wakulla County Community Theater Corridor Advocacy Group (BBSB CAG) has • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation • Wakulla County Historical Society built strong local support for designation of Commission • Wakulla County Sheriff’s Department the Big Bend Scenic Byway during the five- • Florida State University (Marine • Wakulla Springs State Park and Lodge year public participation process, which Laboratory) emphasized working CAG teams, regularly • Friends of St. George Island State Park Several articles have appeared in local scheduled productive meetings, public • From the Heart newspapers supporting Scenic Highway workshops and presentations. All CME • Garlick Environmental Associates, Inc. designation. Appendix L includes sample members and CAG members are committed • George Griffin Pottery and School letters of support and copies of government to sustain the current level of local/regional resolutions illustrating local support for • Iris Garden Club support into the future. Scenic Highway Designation. • Keep Wakulla County Beautiful All incorporated Byway communities, St. • Lanark Village Association Throughout the implementation phase, the Marks, Sopchoppy, Carrabelle, and • Mike’s Marine Supply Corridor Management Entity (CME) will Apalachicola, have unanimously endorsed • Ochlockonee Bay Airport Association continue to work with local governments, the Scenic Byway, as have the Franklin and Wakulla County Boards of County • Ochlockonee Bay Realty Commissioners. • Ochlockonee River State Park • 1000 Friends of Florida Endorsements from local authorities, • Panacea Waterfronts Florida Partnership organizations, and merchants include: • Posey’s Up-The-Creek Restaurant • Alligator Point Taxpayers Association • Sea Oats Garden Club • Apalachee Ecological Conservancy • Sopchoppy Education Center • Apalachicola Area Historical Society • Sopchoppy Lions Club • Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce • Sopchoppy Opry • Apalachicola Bay & Riverkeeper • Sopchoppy Outfitters • Apalachicola National Estuarine Research • Sopchoppy Post Office Reserve

133 Local Support

non-profit organizations, community groups, “We strongly believe that the Scenic available for these and other business owners, and local citizens to Byway can stimulate and facilitate worthwhile efforts.” strengthen support for and implementation sustainable economic progress that will — Apalachee Ecological Conservancy of the Corridor Management Plan. be of direct benefit to our members and Furthermore, the CME will continue to all other citizens of Franklin County. “The scenic highway is an opportunity pursue other recognition, proclamations, This is an opportunity to help build to help build community pride and resolutions, or ordinances that support the community pride and involvement involvement through the identification Vision and Goals of the Big Bend Scenic through the identification of the unique of the unique resources that we Byway. scenic, natural, recreational, cultural, possess. In addition, we believe that archeological, and historical resources visitors will realize what a wonderful Sample comments from local supporters on that we possess.” natural resource that we have in the the importance of designation include: — Carrabelle Area Apalachicola Bay & River and will support our efforts for its preservation “Our surveys show that driving for Chamber of Commerce and protection.” pleasure is one of the most popular activities enjoyed by our visitors. Now — Apalachicola Bay & Riverkeeper they will have the Big Bend Scenic “We strongly believe that the proposed Byway to guide, inform, and educate Big Bend Scenic Byway project will them on their visits to the Apalachicola help stimulate and support each county National Forest and surrounding area.” in their efforts to preserve numerous — Cathy Briggs, Recreation Manager, environmental, cultural, and historic Apalachicola National Forest features, which when linked via the Byway will further development of “This designation will be important sustainable local economies.” economically to us and help us increase tourism in the area. Each year we — 1000 Friends of Florida receive thousands of inquires from “This area is still remarkably “The Scenic Byway initiative fits potential visitors seeking to engage in undeveloped and pristine with much to perfectly with all the other work we’re heritage- and nature-based leisure offer visitors interested in ecotourism. doing under the Panacea Waterfronts activities that incorporate unique local With efforts under way to restore the Florida Partnership, helping to bring history and environments. Having US Crooked River Lighthouse, enlarge the more people here to enjoy this beautiful Highway 98 designated a Scenic Camp Gordon Johnston Museum, and natural area.” Byway could contribute immensely to create a scenic bikeway linking the two — Sherrie Posey Miller, Owner, the reasons why people decide to visit sites, visitors will be afforded many Posey’s Up-the-Creek Restaurant Franklin County and why they choose opportunities to sample the Forgotten to stay longer in our area.” Coast’s history and heritage. This — Apalachicola Bay designation would also open doors to Chamber of Commerce grant funds that are not currently

134 Local Support

“We’ve been working in many ways for citizenry as to the value of the area’s years to encourage nature-based and natural resources an the need for their heritage-based tourism in Wakulla protection and conservation.” County, and the Big Bend Scenic — Jesse Quigg, Site Administrator, Byway has the potential for opening Sopchoppy Education Center, Wakulla our area to a wide range of national County School Board and international visitors. “ — Bonnie Holub, Director, Wakulla The Scenic Byway designation will County Tourist Development Council assist people in shaping their awareness around the positive virtues “It’s been striking to watch how our local culture has to offer.” development of the Scenic Byway has — George Griffin, served as a catalyst to bring concerned George Griffin Pottery and School “The Big Bend Scenic Byway offers citizens together to pursue multiple visitors a chance to enjoy a piece of the local and regional needs.” “We believe the proposed Big Bend real Florida that still exists here in the — Michael W. Delaney, Board Member, Scenic Byway can only enhance and Panhandle.” Florida Foresight build upon the current efforts to — Tim Jordan, Chair, Wakulla Realtors preserve, protect, and promote the Association & Owner/Broker “The Big Bend Scenic Byway offers unique natural, cultural, and historical Ochlockonee Bay Realty great exposure for Wakulla County as a resources present in the Panacea fly-in destination for pilots who live in community.” “Our biggest challenge is to get people Florida and other Southeastern states.” — Dr. Gene Charbonneau, Chairman, off the interstate highway and down to — Roger Shilling, Chairman, Panacea Waterfronts Florida Partnership St. Marks for fishing, boating, and Wakulla County Airport Association down-home food. Putting the Scenic Byway on the map will make that a lot “We strongly believe that the Scenic easier.” Byway can stimulate and facilitate — Allen Hobbs, Commission Chair, sustainable economic progress that will City of St. Marks & Owner, be of direct benefit to our members and Shell Island Fish Camp all other citizens of Wakulla County.” — Susan Payne Turner, Past President, “Work with a broad range of local Wakulla County Coastal Optimist Club citizens on the Big Bend Scenic Byway and Vice President, Wakulla Bank has made me even more aware of the great cultural and natural resources of “Because the project encourages the our area, and the unique heritage we active involvement and participation of all share.” social, civic, church, school, and — Robin M. Will, Refuge Ranger, business groups, it provides a good St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge opportunity for the education of the

135

Chapter 10:

Protection Techniques

Approximately three-quarters of the land in • Road Maintenance Programs: – There are thirteen (13) identified Franklin and Wakulla Counties is publicly – State Road Maintenance contracted to National Register of Historic Place sites owned. These public lands are managed by VMS, Inc. and fifteen (15) sites identified through various agencies, entities and public/private – Local/County Road Maintenance the Florida Historic Marker program partnerships. There are a number of existing • Land Management Findings: – State Archaeological Landmark programs, policies, standards, regulations, – Management Agencies Designation, where appropriate, is also and ordinances that relate to this intrinsic • U.S. Department of Agriculture a program available for private property resource management and provide owners • Forest Service; National Oceanic and protection techniques for the candidate Atmospheric Administration, National • Comprehensive Plans (Comp Plan) Byway corridor. Additionally, local Estuarine Research Reserves Findings: comprehensive plans supply a policy • U.S. Department of Interior, Fish and – Related references are located within framework to support additional protection the Coastal/Conservation, Future Land efforts. Government entities and land Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Refuges Use, Transportation, Recreation & Open management agencies along the corridor Space, and Intergovernmental • Florida Fish and Wildlife provide protection through ongoing Coordination Elements of the Franklin Conservation Commission resource-based management and land County Comp Plan development regulation within their • Florida Department of Agriculture – Related references are located within jurisdictions. Non-profit organizations and and Consumer Services, Division of the Coastal Management, volunteer groups also play a vital role in Forestry Intergovernmental Coordination, and maintaining the resources of the Big Bend • Florida Department of Environmental Economic Development Elements of the Scenic Byway, working to keep roadways Protection, Office of Greenways and Wakulla County Comp Plan clean, improve wildlife environments, and Trails Additional Protection Opportunities promote area culture. – Protection Techniques include: • Exotic species removal (plant and • Land Acquisition Programs, Florida animals) Department of Environmental Protection, Summary of Findings Division of State Lands • Prescribed burnings The following lists provide a summary of the – Florida Forever • Habitat monitoring (i.e. sand dunes, agencies, programs, and techniques – Preservation 2000 pine forests, nesting sites) currently being used to maintain and – Conservation and Recreational Lands preserve the intrinsic resources of the • Protection of designated species (CARL) Byway. A more detailed description of the • Access management (on and off-road • Non-Profit Agencies vehicles, boats, equestrians, programs and groups follows the summary. – Nature Conservancy bicyclists, and pedestrians) • Litter Control Programs: – Florida Wildlife Federation • Historic Resources Findings – FDOT’s Adopt-A-Highway Program – Florida Trail Association – Programs identify historic resources and – Keep Wakulla Beautiful • State-Initiated Efforts provide incentives for historic – Keep Franklin Beautiful (transitioning – Waterfronts Florida Partnership preservation new leadership) Program, Department of Community – Sheriff’s Department Work Program Affairs

139 Protection Techniques

– North Florida Water Management VMS, and its sub-consultants, who provide roadways in forest areas, including the District grass-cutting crews, coordinate with FDOT Apalachicola National Forest. – Florida’s Nature Coast Coalition to properly maintain protected wildflower – Great Florida Birding Trail areas along state right-of-ways. Specific Keep Wakulla Beautiful (KWCB) is a non- • Private Conservation Easements efforts have included a dialogue with FDOT profit organization affiliated with Keep and local associations regarding wildflower America Beautiful and Keep Florida and butterfly populations along SR 65 at the Beautiful, and maintains an Adopt-A-Road Protection Techniques within Franklin County/Liberty County border. Program for county-maintained roadways. Comprehensive Plans Currently, there are 59 volunteer groups VMS also manages FDOT’s Adopt-A- participating in the program. Each group In general, a Comprehensive Plan can Highway program for state-maintained has adopted two miles of roadway and has provide county-wide policy direction to roadways in Franklin and Wakulla Counties. agreed to clean them twice a year. protect existing intrinsic resources within Interested parties volunteer to “adopt” a Volunteers are provided bags, gloves, and the Byway corridor through existing goals, stretch of highway, promising to clean it at free disposal of trash collected. KWCB, the objectives and policies for land development least four times a year for two years. The County Commission, and the Litter Control adjacent to Byway corridor resources. Many program application is reviewed by VMS Unit work with the volunteers to ensure the of these inherent protection techniques are and FDOT. Once approved, VMS success of the Adopt-a-Road program. Two designed to protect public health, safety, and coordinates the installation of signage KWCB volunteers call the groups quarterly welfare of the communities the designating the roadway as adopted. VMS to monitor progress. Comprehensive Plans serve. However, these is currently reviewing if current volunteers protection techniques can also provide a are conducting the trash pick-ups as agreed. KWCB also sponsors the following related foundation for the development and activities and programs: implementation of a Corridor Management Wakulla County Plan. The protection techniques and • Supporting beautification of the Byway The Wakulla County Road and Bridge associated land development policies within through native wildlife plantings. In Department provides road repair and area comprehensive plans related to the Big Panacea, by sponsoring a program with landscaping, including grass-cutting Bend Scenic Byway are described in Chapter local schools to create decorative tile services for county roads. The Sheriff’s 12 Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan. mosaics with coastal and maritime themes Department operates a litter control program on the walls of the Brooks Concrete for county roads. Inmate work crews pick up Company. Litter Control and Road litter along all state and county roadways. • The Great Wakulla CleanUp, which is a Maintenance Programs Two units of five to six inmates, working part of the Great Americans CleanUp each eight hours a day require 10-12 days to State-Maintained Roadways April. The main objective of this program complete one cycle of litter pick-up is to focus attention on litter and litter In 2000, VMS, Inc. entered into a seven- throughout the county. The Sheriff’s prevention. This empowers a broad range year contract with FDOT in District Three to Department operates eight cycles per year of volunteers to take greater responsibility provide routine and preventive maintenance and coordinates efforts with VMS grass- for making a visible difference in Florida’s on state roadways and facilities throughout a cutting crews. Additionally, the Sheriff’s environment. five-county area, including Gulf, Franklin, Department is currently in the process of Jefferson, Liberty and Wakulla Counties. establishing a litter control program for

140 Protection Techniques

• The Coastal CleanUp, is held each year in and state roadways as part of their normally areas. Local governments in Franklin and September. Hundreds of volunteers come scheduled work duties. Wakulla County also manage public park ready to clean Wakulla County’s areas located along the Byway. waterways: sinkholes, rivers, beaches, and Keep Franklin Beautiful (KFCB) is a non- coastline. profit organization also affiliated with the While each entity has its own formal • Adopt-a-Shore programs invite volunteers Keep America Beautiful and Keep Florida resource plan that describes the policies, to “adopt” part of the county’s shoreline. Beautiful program. The group is currently procedures and regulations for protecting Like the Adopt-a-Roadway program, transitioning new leadership and has no intrinsic resources, goals between agencies volunteers agree to clean their section at active programs. have a common framework to preserve least four times each year. They are natural community associations and provided bags, gloves, and free disposal of Land Management Agencies hydrological regimes through the trash collected. application of system-wide policies. The The candidate Byway corridor is located following summary identifies the primary • Weigh Your Butts is an ongoing campaign adjacent to numerous parks, reserves, and managing agencies and identifies protection directed primarily towards young people. protected forest areas, as indicated by Figure techniques within specific management KWCB offers incentives to those who 3.2, Chapter 3. Each of the areas is managed areas located adjacent to the Big Bend collect the most cigarette butts at coastal by local, state, or federal agencies and some Scenic Byway in Franklin and Wakulla “hot spots” such as marinas, restaurants, often are co-managed. The following tables Counties. and motels. During the Coastal CleanUp identify each of the entities, owners, and of 1998, volunteers picked up 30,000 managing agencies for all management butts! areas near the Byway corridor. • The Great Paper Project is a five-county program designed to promote greater Several federal and state agencies work to recycling of paper products. Recycling maintain significant portions of land within receptacles are offered to every school and Wakulla and Franklin counties. Franklin business in this region. Small counties County is predominately composed of Tate’s have difficulty in becoming competitive in Hell State Forest, two State Parks, and the broader market; working together, Wildlife Management Areas. Publicly however, they are able to offer the volume managed land is also a majority of Wakulla of recycled materials required to attract County with Apalachicola National Forest highest prices for recycling. and St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. Approximately 73 percent of the land in Franklin County Wakulla County is federally or state The Franklin County Road Department managed. Under the direction of Florida coordinates road construction, repair Constitution Article IV, Section 9, the Florida services, and landscaping (including grass- Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission cutting) for county-maintained roads. In and the Florida Department of addition, inmate work crews from the Environmental Protection have created Franklin Work Camp in Apalachicola several offices that work to maintain and conduct litter and trash picks along county implement management plans for these

141 Protection Techniques U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service Established in 1905, the agencies mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.

U.S. Department of Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, National Wildlife Refuge System Management, ranging from preservation to active manipulation of habitats and populations, is necessary to achieve Refuge System and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service missions.

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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Estuarine Research Reserve

Administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the reserve system is a federal-state partnership with Florida Department of Environmental Protection Office of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas. NOAA and coastal state partners collaborate to set common priorities and to develop system-wide programs. Additionally, NOAA provides support for state partners and national cohesion. State partners carry out locally-relevant and nationally- significant programs at individual reserves and provide day-to-day management of resources and programs. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)

The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission came into existence on July 1, 1999, the creation of a constitutional amendment approved in the 1998 General Election as part of the package proposed by the Constitutional Revision Commission. Plans of the FWC comply with the Florida Constitution as well as the guidance and directives of Chapters 372, 253, 259, 327, 370, 403, 870, 373,

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375, 378, 487, and 597 of the Florida Statutes. These plans are in conformance with the Local Government Comprehensive Plans, as approved and adopted. Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Recreation and Parks

The content, development and maintenance of unit management plans are directed by Florida Statutes 253 and 259. Resource management planning begins with a thorough and detailed inventory of the park’s natural and cultural resources, and an appraisal of their quality and condition. The purpose of this step is to identify resource management problems and needs. Next, specific management objectives and management measures for both natural and cultural resources are established, aimed at correcting identified deficiencies and sustaining the park’s resource base in perpetuity. At this stage, important decisions are made on such issues as ecological burning, exotic plant and animal removal, mitigation of environmental intrusions, protection measures for listed plants and animals and the long-term restoration of natural conditions.

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Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Forestry The mission of the Division of Forestry is to protect Florida and its people from the dangers of wildfires and manage the forest resources through a stewardship ethic to assure they are available for future generations.

Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Office of Greenways and Trails Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) administers the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) in coordination with the US Department of Transportation, Federal Highway to preserve them and also provide a means occupation and historical development of Administration (FHWA). Collectively they to enrich the experience of visitors to the our nation, state, and local communities. implement the competitive program which Byway. provides grants for projects that render, Listing in the National Register or being restore, or preserve recreational trails, National Register of Historic Places determined eligible for listing does not trailhead and trailside facilities. RTP funding automatically preserve a building and does is primarily used for subsidiary project The National Register of Historic Places is not keep a property from being modified or corridors where DOT enhancement dollars an official listing of historically significant even destroyed. Unless an undertaking is are not utilized. sites and properties throughout the country. state or federally funded, or regulated by It is maintained by the National Park local ordinance, private property owners Service of the U.S. Department of the may deal with their property in any way Historic Resources Interior. It includes districts, sites, buildings, they see fit. It does, however, encourage the Efforts at the state and federal level offer structures, and objects that have been preservation of significant historic resources programs designed to identify historic identified and documented as being in the following ways: resources. Designation of a historic site significant in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering or culture. These • By providing official recognition of the through these programs provides incentives historic significance of the property and to property owners and community groups sites and properties reflect the prehistoric

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encouraging consideration of its historic is increased and the assessment is raised Act (FEMA) requirements and eligible for value in future development planning, accordingly. The ad valorem tax some American Disabilities Act (ADA) and and imposing limited protection from legislation provides that the increase in building safety code adjustments. activities involving funding, licensing, or assessed value of the improved property assistance by Federal agencies that could will be exempted for up to ten years from The nomination of historic resources in result in damage or loss of its historic taxation for those portions of the tax bill Florida for listing in the National Register is value(s). affected by local option county or a function of the State Historic Preservation • By making the property eligible for a municipal exemption ordinances. Officer, Florida Division of Historical Federal Income Tax Credit. If a registered • Listing may make a property exempt from Resources. Anyone interested in having a property that is income producing certain Federal Emergency Management particular property listed may submit a undergoes a substantial rehabilitation carried out according to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, the owner may apply for a 20 percent income tax credit. The credit amounts to 20 pecent of the cost of the rehabilitation. • In 1992, the Florida Legislature passed legislation that allows counties or cities to grant ad valorem tax relief for owners of properties that are listed or eligible for listing in the National Register or in a local district. When a property is improved its value

146 Protection Techniques nomination proposal to the State Historic Florida history, and traditional culture by available state and local governmental Preservation Office. The nomination promoting the placing of historic markers agencies and nonprofit organizations may proposal must meet National Register and plaques at sites of historical and visual apply for matching grants to defray half the standards. It is the responsibility of the interest to visitors. Normally, individuals and cost of purchasing the markers and plaques. person submitting the proposal to provide for-profit organizations must bear the full However, marker applications must be the necessary information and materials. cost of paying for and maintaining historical approved by the State Historical Marker The staff of the Division is available for markers and plaques, but when funds are Council before a grant application may be consultation on preparation of proposals. Below is a list of locations within Franklin and Wakulla County along or near the Byway that are the National Register of Historic Places. The Department of State, Office of Cultural and Historical Programs Located within the Department of State, the Office of Cultural and Historical Programs is the state agency responsible for promoting the historical, archaeological, museum, arts, and folk culture resources in Florida. A description of the programs and activities within this department that help to preserve and showcase the historic resources in and around the candidate Byway corridor are included below. Florida Historical Marker Program The program recognizes historic resources, persons, and events that are significant in the areas of architecture, archaeology,

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submitted. The grant application cycle is may take action against non-permitted, Landmark or Landmark Zone, it does offer a October 1–December 15 each year. While illegal digging. potential protection techniques for the markers do not provide protections to interested private property owners. the resources, they increase public As provided in the statutes, a designated site awareness of the rich cultural heritage of the or group of sites must demonstrate Additional Efforts state and enhance the enjoyment of historic “significance to the scientific study or public Additional efforts by both non-profit sites in Florida by its citizens and tourists. representation of the state’s historical, organizations, and public agencies, often Below is a list of the historical markers in prehistoric, or aboriginal past” (Chapter working together and in connection with Franklin and Wakulla Counties. 267.11, Florida Statutes). The Division requires that archaeological resources be community organizations, provide protection State Archaeological Landmark eligible for listing on National Register of techniques for areas along the candidate Historic Places in order for designation as a Byway corridor, which help to protect the Designation for Privately Owned State Archaeological Landmark or experience of visitors to the Byway. The Sites Landmark Zone. If a site is not already listed table below describes the efforts, programs, and protection techniques offered by these Under the provisions of Chapter 267.11, on the National Register of Historic Places, groups. Florida Statutes, the Division of Historical only a professionally qualified archaeologist Resources can designate archaeological can determine eligibility. While no resources on private property as an properties in Wakulla or Franklin Counties Archaeological Landmark have been designated as an Archaeological or Landmark Zone. This designation recognizes the significance and increases the legal protection of privately owned archaeological sites under state law. Often without a State Archaeological Landmark or Landmark Zone designation, an owner’s only legal protection against illegal or unwanted digging is the trespass law. With State designation a permit is required from the Division of Historical Resources to legally conduct field investigation. An owner

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149 Protection Techniques

150 Protection Techniques

Conservation Easements Conservation easements may apply to a variety of resources and are possible protection technique available to property holders along the scenic Byway. Broadly applied, a conservation easement is a legal agreement a property owner makes with a non-profit or government organization to protect a cultural or natural resource on his property. Depending on the resources they protect, conservation easements are known by several different names. Along with tax benefits and community benefits, conservation easements are uniquely tailored to meet the needs of the individual property owner. They allow property owners to protect specific resources on their property while retaining ownership. An owner can choose which portions of the property to be protected and which to exclude from protective covenants of the easement.

151

Chapter 11:

Funding and Promotion

Building on Success distribute 14,000 copies of the Guide to the below details how the CAG has leveraged Big Bend Scenic Byway, to showcase the funds for Scenic Byway designation and Designation of the Big Bend Scenic Byway unique resources, sites, and activities related promotion activities. is viewed as the cornerstone for economic available to the traveling public. development of nature and heritage-based • State and federal government agencies Grants/Contributions ...... $189,395 tourism and a catalyst for enhanced quality Cash Match ...... 30,500 and Corridor Advocacy Group members of life and positive social change. In-Kind Match ...... 85,725 from Wakulla and Franklin Counties are The process of Scenic Highway Designation promoting prescribed fire education along Combined Total ...... $305,620 (as of April 2006) requires countless hours of work by the Byway. Agency support supplied funds to produce FireForests of the Big Bend volunteers throughout eligibility, For those projects eligible for grant funding, Scenic Byway, a 7-minute video that designation and implementation. In addition Byway counties, cities, other government documents the unusual tale of prescribed to volunteers, support comes from agency, agencies, Big Bend Scenic Byway fire as the source of ecosystem health and local government and private sources in the supporters, area non-profits, and/or the renewal of the Byway’s long-leaf pine and form of staff, technical resources, meeting Corridor Management Entity may take the wiregrass habitats. This project has been space and in some cases, financial lead in securing funds. See Appendix M for especially valuable in building assistance. a partial list of available sources. relationships along the Byway corridor, The Florida Department of Transportation which helped lay the groundwork for the has provided funding support for the Scenic Corridor Management Entity. Partnership Funding Highway Program in District Three through • Wakulla County in partnership with In addition to fundraising through grants the use of consultants to assist with the Florida Foresight is implementing a and donations, enhancements outlined in technical aspects of the program. Master Plan for a Big Bend Maritime the Big Bend Scenic Byway Corridor Center to be established as a major Management Plan can be funded and Here is an overview of other funding cultural and educational center for the activities to date. implemented through a variety of other Byway. The Maritime Center will means. Many projects can be accomplished • Funding from the Florida Department of showcase this region’s distinctive local by coordination during the design of current Transportation and the St. Marks National history, coastal resources and or future projects, and therefore do not Wildlife Refuge has been secured for the environment, traditions, practices, life require additional funding. In other cases, 12-mile Ochlockonee Bay Bike Trail, a styles, crafts and skills of the watermen creative public/private partnerships can major recreational feature for the Byway. whose labors created the Byway’s working accomplish the goal. Though there are • Wakulla County, with support from the waterfronts. The Maritime Center will numerous partnership opportunities, the Florida Coastal Management Program, serve as a major attraction for residents following are a few examples currently Panacea Waterfronts Florida Partnership, and visitors alike. being explored by the CAG: and the Blue Crab Festival has opened a • Approach local businesses to fund Welcome Center on US 98 in Panacea. As Fundraising for Scenic Byway designation landscaping in front of their buildings. a museum and resource center, the facility and related projects has been highly will serve as a “Gateway” for the Byway. successful, and will provide a sound basis • Ask local businesses to donate from which to continue fundraising activities landscaping materials (i.e. plants, ropes, • 22 sponsors from Wakulla and Franklin during the implementation phase. The table site furniture, etc.). Signage and on-site County provided funds to print and

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furniture could advertise the contributing business. • Secure sponsorship from Wakulla and Franklin County libraries and groups for a resource fair with education booths, a “walk-a-thon,” community barbecue, or cook-off to raise awareness for the corridor’s resources and proposed improvements. Local businesses could donate food, drinks, and/or prizes. This type of regional event would raise awareness and support for the Scenic Byway, as well as raise funding for improvements • Other co-sponsorship opportunities include a driving tour contest, poster raffle, bike-a-thon, car rally, marathons, triathlons, or bike rallies. Additionally, group-sponsored festivals, fairs, and/or garage sales could occur along the corridor. • Develop a Big Bend Scenic Byway Calendar • Establish a “Seed Money” campaign, selling packets of wildflower seeds.

Promotional Techniques Collaboration among CME members to develop and implement a promotional strategy for the Big Bend Scenic Byway will build on the successful publication, The Guide to the Big Bend Scenic Byway. This richly illustrated, 68-page, full-color travel guide has nine maps and over 300 beautiful photographs of Byway resources. It introduces visitors to over 100 Nature/ Cultural heritage sites along the Byway’s

156 Funding and Promotion scenic drives in Wakulla, Franklin, and Leon cultural resources of the area. When Counties. looking through the booklet you get a sort of “Gee, I didn’t know that” The Guide is organized into two color-coded feeling about all the really cool places routes—the Coastal Trail and Forest Trail— in the Big Bend.” and includes chapters on Special Features, Natural History, History at a Glance, Charts —Sandy Cook, Manager, Wakulla Springs State Park & Lodge for Planning a Day Trip, Specifics on Major Attractions, Celebrations, Interpretation, and Much of the information for The Guide a Visitor Questionnaire. Introduced to the came from work by the CAG members public in 2006, it has become “the source” in developing their Eligibility for the traveling public. Some 14,000 copies Application, and full credit is given to are being distributed and/or sold at the appropriate groups and individuals numerous points along the Byway, in both for their support and contributions. The Franklin and Wakulla Counties, with CME, together with Florida Foresight, highly positive feedback will continue to update and revise the from users. publication. For example, the cover will add a new seal: “Designated a Florida Scenic Highway,” when the designation is made official.

The Wakulla Welcome Center in Panacea processes returned Visitor Questionnaires. The information will help guide the CME to prioritize improvements and enhancements based …The Guide is one of on visitor responses. To the most (if not the most) solicit more responses, comprehensive publications that provides the questionnaires will be information on nature based tourism in the available at various points Big Bend area. I served on the Scenic along the Byway and Highway committee and can attest to the available on area fact that no stone went unturned regarding websites. To encourage gathering information on the natural and completion of the

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questionnaire, the respondent receives two free DVDs illustrating area resources, FireForests of the Big Bend Scenic Byway and Last Best Natural Place.

Other promotional techniques under discussion are: Materials – Printed Fact Sheets – Travel Map with Resources – Newsletter – Magazine/Newspaper Articles – Corridor Audio/CD ROM Tour – Internet Web Page Sites and Structures – Informational Kiosks – Markers – Gateway/Welcome Centers Activities and Events – Media FAM Tours – Learning Experiences or Seminars – Scenic Highway sponsored contests, fairs, projects

158 Chapter 12:

Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan

The Franklin County Comprehensive Plan The following draft policy language will be Comp Plan with current development and the Wakulla County Comprehensive submitted to local planning staff prior to the conditions to ensure the Comp Plan reflects Plan provide the foundation of goals, appropriate cycle of Comp Plan the intent of its policies. The Florida objectives, and policies that directly relate to amendments, full-plan updates or scheduled Department of Community Affairs has the management of the Big Bend Scenic Evaluation and Appraisal Report, whichever established a phased schedule for the Byway. In addition, the Comprehensive comes first. Table 12.1 identifies the adoption of EARs. Consistent with state law, Plans (Comp Plans) from the Cities of corresponding Comp Plan Element that will municipalities are scheduled to adopt their Sopchoppy and St. Marks in Wakulla be recommended for a Comp Plan EARs approximately one year to 18 months County, and Carrabelle and Apalachicola in amendment. after the county in which they are located Franklin County, also provide policies that [Jurisdiction name] shall support the adopts its EAR. This phasing allows support the Byway. The following chapter designated corridors of the Big Bend municipalities to benefit from updated includes a description and summary of Scenic Byway (BBSB) as well as the information that may be collected and findings from the Comp Plans and related goals and vision of the Byway as stated analyzed by each respective county, policies of each respective jurisdiction that in the Big Bend Scenic Byway Corridor particularly regarding major community- support intrinsic resources along the Big Management Plan. wide planning issues. Bend Scenic Byway corridor. A workshop was conducted Inclusion of the Big Bend Scenic in March 2006 Byway in Local Government by the Comprehensive Plans Apalachee Regional The Florida Scenic Highways Program Planning requires the adoption of the Byway Vision, Council (RPC) Goals and Map in local Comp Plans for the and Florida candidate corridor to be considered for Department of designation. In order to facilitate adoption of Community the required Byway components into local Comprehensive Plan Evaluation Affairs (DCA) to explain the necessary Comp Plans, the CAG has developed the and Appraisal Reports requirements relevant to local governments following draft language for use by each in the Apalachee Region, such as Franklin respective jurisdiction. The Transportation or All Comp Plans should address relevant and Wakulla County’s upcoming evaluation Traffic Circulation Element of each Comp current statutory and rule requirements. and appraisal reports for their respective Plan could serve as an appropriate location Pursuant to Section 163.3191, Florida Comp Plan updates. The workshop was an for inclusion of the Big Bend Scenic Byway. Statutes, “each local government shall adopt opportunity for the Franklin/Wakulla CAG to However, after review of each local an evaluation and appraisal report (EAR) present the Byway project to the public, the government’s Comp Plan structure, once every seven years assessing the RPC and DCA. This allowed local additional elements were identified as target progress in implementing the local government staff and elected officials to locations for inclusion of the Byway’s route, government’s Comprehensive Plan.” The understand the goal of the candidate Byway vision and goals. EAR presents an opportunity for local and anticipate adoption of the appropriate jurisdictions to compare the content of their

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In an effort to accomplish this objective the following policies outline support for this objective. • Policy 18.1: U.S. Highway 98 within the County, shall be designated a scenic road along the coast. • Policy 18.2: Properties between designated scenic roads and wetlands or open water shall be zoned the lowest density allowed for their respective future land use categories. • Policy 18.3: Site plan requirements for areas between designated scenic roads and wetlands or open water shall require Corridor Management Plan components. the Eligibility Phase, however provides the use of native vegetation in Table 12.2 identifies when each local detailed policy statements to guide the most landscaping, separation of buildings by at government Comp Plan was adopted and appropriate location for the Big Bend Scenic least 20 feet along the axis of the road, when the next EAR is scheduled. Byway Goals, Vision and route map. and the avoidance of fencing or landscaping that would obstruct views of It should be noted that the Comp Plans for Franklin County Comprehensive wetlands or open water. the Cities of Sopchoppy, St. Marks, and Apalachicola were last adopted in 1990, and Growth Management Plan The Franklin County Comprehensive Plan the target date for achieving the majority of Due to the overwhelming endorsement and also includes wetland protection from new the goals within the Plans is the year 2000. approval of Plans for the proposed Byway by land uses, such as a 50-foot vegetated The goals, policies, and objectives within virtually all project stakeholders, the perimeter buffer, higher protection status for these Comp Plans may not fully reflect members of the CAG are encouraged by the high-quality wetlands and no new current conditions or needs within these inclusion of a ‘scenic roads’ objective in the development in wetland areas (some cities, especially given the impacts of recent Coastal/Conservation Element of the restrictions apply). Commercial land hurricane seasons and growth. The EAR Franklin County Growth Management adjacent to waters of Apalachicola Bay shall presents an opportunity to compare the (Comprehensive Plan). be developed as a ‘last resort’ and will be content of the Comp Plan with any updated reserved for water-dependent activities legislative requirements and community Most importantly, as a part of the Franklin (Policy 2.2). This policy will assist in needs to ensure that the Comp Plan is up to County Comprehensive Plan Coastal/ retaining the existing scenic intrinsic date. Conservation Element, Objective 18 states: resources and viewshed along the proposed corridor. “Maintaining Scenic routes. By 2009, The following section outlines existing the County will establish a scenic road Comp Plan policies that generally support A policy to consider identification of a program in order to help preserve the parallel U.S. 98 corridor may also affect the the Vision and Goals of the Big Bend Scenic area’s natural beauty.” Byway. This information is duplicated from proposed Byway corridor (Traffic Circulation

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Element, Objective 4, Policy 4.3). An Protection of the proposed Byway corridor • Policy 3.9 insures compliance with the alternative route for U.S. 98 could reduce intrinsic resources is also clear in the first Critical Shoreline District Ordinance. the amount of traffic along the existing goal of the Future Land Use Element: The Transportation Element contains coastline and could potentially enhance Ensure that the character and location pedestrian and bicycle transportation additional policies to provide a safe of land uses in Franklin County transportation system which aids in the options, however a determination of the minimize the threat to the natural long-term maintenance of the existing Byway corridor traffic movement through environment or public health, safety, the goal of: US 98 alignment will need to be evaluated. and welfare, and maximize the protection of the Apalachicola Bay Providing a safe and efficient multi- The Franklin County CAG continues to work modal transportation system for all closely with county authorities in many while respecting individual property rights. residents and visitors to Franklin County areas, including planning and zoning, with minimum delays to through traffic public works, parks and recreation, Among the associated objectives and movement. economic development and others. If the policies stated to achieve this goal are the Franklin corridor is designated, the CAG following: The policies and objectives that support this believes that the specific corridor and goal include Objective 1, which provides for resource enhancements that may occur • Objective 1 provides for development the safe flow of motorized and non during implementation, which will serve the activities that protect the Apalachicola Bay motorized traffic, and Policy 1.3, that action plan of the scenic corridor, will be from harmful impact; accommodates bicycle and pedestrian traffic consistent and directly support the policy • Policy 1.6. Objective 2 describes how as needed. guidance stated in the existing Franklin County will manage its future Comprehensive Plan. growth through; The Coastal/Conservation Element of the • Policy 2.1 (b) regulates signage; Comp Plan aims to further balance growth Franklin County Protection Techniques • Policy 2.1 (f), provides for adequate open and provide protection of coastal resources The Comp Plan of Franklin County, as space; through the goal of keeping: adopted on April 5, 2005, contains numerous • Policy 2.1(g), protection of potable water Natural and historic resources of the goals, objectives and policies that may well fields and aquifer recharge areas; coastal area preserved, protected or contribute significantly to the protection of • Objective 3 ensures protection of natural enhanced as the development proposed intrinsic resources along the corridor of the and historic resources and protects the in the Future Land Use Element occurs. Big Bend Scenic Byway. Apalachicola Bay from the deleterious effect of stormwater runoff; Several policies and objectives have been As described above, a majority of the Byway outlined as a means to achieve the above • Policy 3.6 limits the area of impervious corridor, along U.S. 98, is mentioned in the stated goal; Objective 2 supports the surfaces; Coastal/Conservation Element. The Comp conservation and protection of native Plan contains an objective and three • Policy 3.7 protects historic resources by ecological communities and prohibits corresponding policies directly related to providing special designation through the development which would damage the maintaining scenic routes and preservation State or County; County’s natural resources through; Policies the area’s natural beauty. • Policy 3.8 ensures protection of threatened 2.1, Policy 2.3, Policy 2.4, Policy 2.5 and or endangered species through agency Policy 2.10. Objective 4 seeks to protect coordination; and

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water quality on the Apalachicola River and Management Plan and related resource is by way of a connection that meets the Bay to the extent that all waters maintain protection for the proposed Big Bend Scenic requirements of the Florida Department of ambient water quality as established by the Byway. Transportation’s Access Management Rule FDEP regulations; Policy 4.5. Objective 7 (Rule 14-97 F.A.C.) maintains ambient air quality standard City of Carrabelle • Lots that cannot meet the access standards which are more stringent than the State and The most recent Comprehensive Plan shall have access by one of the following Federal air quality standards and Objective Update for the City of Carrabelle, currently methods: platted side streets, frontage 9 enforces aquifer protection of the County’s in draft form, offers goals, policies, and streets, combined parking lots, shared potable water source to safeguard public objectives that provide projection techniques drives, or the provision of access by heath. for the Byway, as indicated in Goal 1 of the easements. To further encourage preservation, Future Land Use element: Additional regulations included in the education, and usage of its natural and Ensure that the character and location transportation element also provide historical areas/open space, the Recreation of land uses maximize the potential for protection and future opportunities for the and Open Space Element of the Comp Plan economic benefit and the enjoyment of byway: has encouraged; natural and manmade resources by • 4.G.1 Objective 1.3 will coordinate the The goal of recreation and open space citizens while minimizing the threat to traffic circulation expansion with Franklin planning to provide adequate quality health, safety, welfare posed by County, the Apalachee Regional Planning and quantity in recreation so that the hazards, nuisances, incompatible land Council, and FDOT. uses, and environmental degradation. citizens and visitors to Franklin County • 4.G.1 Objective 1.4 states that the City will can be assured ample open space and Goal 1.G.1 Policy 1.1.6, Objective D protects protect “existing and future right-of-ways resource, and user-based recreational wetland areas by enforcing the Critical from encroachment.” opportunities. Shoreline Section of the land development • 4.G.1 Objective 1.5 indicates that the City Intergovernmental cooperation is built into regulations, which prohibits impervious will “analyze the feasibility for bicycle and the Franklin County Comp Plan under the surfaces and structures other decks, docks, pedestrian ways in planning for Intergovernmental Coordination Element, and dune walkovers to be constructed within transportation facilities” and includes the through an objective to maintain 20 feet of wetlands or waters of the state. preparation of a bicycle/pedestrian plan to coordination with Apalachicola, Eastpoint, Development adjacent to wetland areas shall connect residential areas and major and Carrabelle and the School District. The provide a minimum 20-foot buffer. activity centers by December 1, 2007. element provides additional policy direction The Transportation Element of the Comp The Recreation and Open Space Element for the continuance of existing Plan provides for a safe, convenient, and also offers notable protections and understandings between governments and efficient movement of people and goods. opportunities for areas adjacent to the related entities. US 98, a part of the Byway through the City Byway: On whole, these and other features of the of Carrabelle, is listed under Goal 4.G.1, • Goal 1, Policy 1.1.2 states that the City will Franklin County Comp Plan offer a Policy 1.1.5, which states that: pursue grants through year 2010 to foundation for working with local • Land located adjacent to U.S. Highway 98 develop 900 feet of public waterfront government on the cooperative development and State Road 67 shall not be subdivided property adjacent to the Carrabelle River and administration of a Corridor unless direct access to the State Highway into a public marina.

164 Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan

• Goal 1, Policy 1.3.1 provides for the City of Apalachicola access onto US 98 from driveways (except maintenance and improvement of existing where no other access is available.) levels of shoreline access. Apalachicola’s Comp Plan describes the US 98 (Avenue E and Market St.) corridor as Much of the City’s Comp Plan speaks to the The Intergovernmental Coordination one of the primary commercial areas within vulnerable location of the City, surrounded Element outlines how the City will the City. The Future Land Use Element of by waterways, and the dangers inherent coordinate planning efforts. Goal 1. Policy the Comp Plan identifies “approximately ten during hurricane season. Intergovernmental 1.1.2 states that the City of Carrabelle and acres of land which border Avenue E/US 98 coordination with the following agencies Franklin County road improvements will be from 5th Street to 18th Street” as being plays a vital role in the City’s planning formalized by interlocal agreement to under a mixed use residential land use efforts, because, “as a result of the heavy include distribution of State road funds and category. The combination of residential and reliance on US 98 and the low bridge access Franklin County’s responsibility regarding commercial purposes was sought to between Apalachicola and Eastpoint, it is Carrabelle’s Level of Service standards. minimize the impact of urban sprawl. imperative that evacuation from these areas Analysis provided within the Comp Plan occur during the early states of the The Coastal Management Element seeks to states, “Development should be encouraged [hurricane] warning process”: balance growth with cultural and natural to occur in the central business district and • National Hurricane Center resources. The objectives and polices, listed should be discouraged from occurring west below, give specific support to the scenic along U.S. 98 in ‘strip’ fashion (44).” • National Weather Service routes within the City. • Governor of Florida Policy 2.1.b of the Future Land Use Element • 7.G Objective 2.7: Maintaining Scenic • Florida Division of Emergency seeks to protect areas along the coast by Routes. By 2007, the City will establish a Management limiting impervious service coverage along scenic road program in order to help • Franklin County of Emergency the riverfront and establishing setbacks preserve the area’s natural beauty. Management along riverfront and bay wetlands. Policy 3.5 • Red Cross • 7.G Policy 2.7.1: Properties between requires, in part, for subdivisions with lots • Apalachee Regional Planning Council designated scenic roads and wetlands or along the periphery to be buffered from open water shall be zoned to the lowest major roads. density allowed for their respective future Coordination also extends to road improvements priorities, which are land use categories. The Traffic Circulation Element identifies established by the Franklin Board of County • 7.G Policy 2.7.2 Site plan requirements for US 98 as the major transportation element Commissions. The entities involved with the areas between designated scenic roads within the City, lists it as an arterial coordinating efforts are Apalachicola, FDOT, and wetlands or open water shall require roadway, and provides the following and the Franklin County Board of County the use of native vegetation in critique: Commissioners. The Comp Plan states that landscaping, separation of buildings by at US 98 currently has a right of way of 90 the jurisdictions in Franklin County “agree least 50 feet along the axis of the road, feet. To provide projection of this corridor, that its not economically prudent for the and the avoidance of fencing of future development should be scrutinized County and the Cities to separately own and landscaping that would obstruct views of carefully to insure adequate right of way. operate road improvement equipment and to wetlands or open water. contract separately for contract paving” and Policy 5.2.d seeks to limit hazardous that there is an “understanding between the roadway conditions by prohibiting direct

165 Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan

City and County regarding road posed by hazards, nuisances, There are repeated requirements for special improvement funds…The nature of the incompatible land uses, and care and coordination in the management of relationship between the City and the environmental degradation. coastal areas. Wakulla County’s Comp Plan County is informal yet cooperative.” in the Coastal Management Element CME-1 Among the associated policies stated to specifies that all proposed developments in Wakulla County Comprehensive Plan achieve this goal are these: Policy 1.1. (3) for or adjacent to coastal areas must be reviewed protection of environmentally sensitive together with other key resource The Executive Summary of the 1997 EAR lands, especially those designated for management agencies in the Big Bend noted that the laudable objectives stated in Conservation; Policy 1.1.(6) for protection of region including, for example, consonance the Wakulla County Comp Plan of potable water well fields and aquifer with the Big Bend Seagrass Aquatic Preserve November 30, 1995, in many cases took the recharge areas; Policy 1.1.(7) for regulation Management Plan, Alligator Harbor Aquatic form of mandates for future revisions to be of signage; Policy 1.1.(8) for assurance of Preserve Management Plan, Apalachicola made in the Land Development Code. The safe and convenient traffic flow and vehicle Bay Aquatic Preserve Management Plan, 1997 EAR concluded that up to that time, a parking; and Policy 1.1.(10) for identification and the Apalachicola National Estuarine lack of resources had prevented the County and preservation of historically significant Research Reserve Management Plan (Policy from carrying out “the necessary monitoring resources. 1.9, CME-3). Topics of special emphasis and implementation processes.” The EAR include dune preservation, mitigation of did acknowledge that significant progress The Comp Plan also mandates in Policy hazards, cooperation on hurricane had been made in improving the technical 1.19, FLUE-19 that the Wakulla County evacuation, setting and maintenance of capacity of Wakulla County to deal with its Land Development Regulations incorporate marinas, encouragement of coastal land-use and development issues, but noted appropriate buffering of new development recreation sites, designation of parks and that much remained to be done. and requirements for open space; protection other scenic facilities, etc. of historically significant properties; and The Comp Plan of Wakulla County, as preservation of wildlife habitat, water flow, Intergovernmental cooperation is already adopted on November 30, 1995 and revised and water quality in 100-year floodplains, built into the Wakulla County Comp Plan on July 17, 2000, also contains numerous sinkholes, wetlands, and important upland under the Intergovernmental Coordination policies, standards and regulations that may habitats. Element, ICE-1 – through a requirement for contribute significantly to the protection of the resolution of goals, objectives and intrinsic resources along the corridor of the As means to encourage the continuing use coordination of county land-use decisions in Big Bend Scenic Byway. of land in the county for agriculture and this area with the School Board; the silviculture, the Comp Plan stresses the separately incorporated municipalities of St. This is clear in the first and most prominent importance in Objective 2, FLUE-20 of Marks and Sopchoppy; authorities in goal stated in the Future Land Use Element limiting new urban development such as neighboring counties such as, Franklin, (FLUE-1) of the Wakulla County Comp Plan: business or commercial activity to Enterprise Jefferson, Leon and Liberty as well as, state, Zones or mixed-use areas, and the adoption Ensure that the character and location regional and federal agencies. of land uses allow for appropriate in Objective 4, FLUE-21 of innovative land- economic benefit and support the use techniques such as clustering, transfer Finally, with reference to the topic of enjoyment of natural and man-made of development rights, public purchases of encouraging economic development, the resources by citizens while minimizing land in Coastal High Hazard zones, land Comp Plan under Goal 1 of the Economic the threat to health, safety, and welfare banking and conservation easements. Development Element, EDE-1 specifies

166 Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan inclusion of the goal of “pursuing growth Objective 7 of the FLU Element calls for the County Road Department to “conduct a within the tourism industry” and City to “improve coordination with affected drainage assessment with appropriate “investigation of tourism development and appropriate governments and agencies recommendations of road side ditches and activities of other counties” when preparing to maximize their input into the swales located within the city limits.” The recommendations to the Board of County development process and mitigate potential culmination of these efforts, as stated in Commissioners (Policy 2.4, EDE-2). adverse impacts of future development and Objective 3, was that by 1992, the City Economic development authorities in redevelopment activities.” Policy 7.1 outlines would have adopted drainage regulations for Wakulla County are enjoined to highlight that requests for development/ new development that provide for the “the importance of resource-based redevelopment orders or permits will be protection of natural resources. The opportunities” as well as, “clean air and coordinated with adjacent counties, special Conservation Element offers protections and water, historic and prehistoric landmarks, districts, the Regional Planning Council, regulations regarding air quality, ground and copious natural resources” when water management districts, the state, and and water, soil erosion, flora and fauna, and pursuing economic expansion (Policy 2.6, federal agencies. hazard wastes. EDE-2). In Policy 1.5 of the Traffic Circulation The Recreation/Open Space Element of the Taken as a whole, these and other features Element, the City will “eliminate or Comp Plan also offers protection techniques of the Wakulla County Comp Plan offer a minimize roadway designs which lead to through Objective 3, which maintains that promising foundation for working with local hazardous conditions by preventing conflicts public agencies and private enterprises will government on the cooperative development between roadway and pedestrian traffic.” be provided the chance to donate land to the and administration of this Corridor Objective 2 protects Right-Of-Way (ROW) City. Policy 4.3 offers specific support for Management Plan for the Big Bend Scenic from new building construction. Objective 3 areas adjacent to the Byway, by stating that Byway. of the Transportation Element outlines that the City will support efforts by the US Forest the City will “coordinate with transportation Service to protect the portions of the St. City of Sopchoppy Comprehensive activities and improvement which impact Mark’s Wildlife Refuge Environmental Plan the City but are implemented by other Services Element, and the Apalachicola government agencies,” including FDOT, National Forest located adjacent to While the Comprehensive Plan for the City Wakulla County, and Apalachee Regional Sopchoppy’s city limits. of Sopchoppy does not specifically mention Planning Council. In addition, Policy 3.3 the Byway, it too provides goals, objectives, describes that the City will examine the Additionally, the Intergovernmental and policies that could be utilized to support possibility of determining bicycle and Coordination Element outlines efforts for the Byway activities. Objective 3 of the Future pedestrian ways, including applying for City to coordinate its Comprehensive Plan Land Use (FLU) Element states that: grants. with other local governments which provide services to the City but do not have Sopchoppy shall protect new The City of Sopchoppy, in Objective 2 of the regulatory control over the use of the land. development from destroying natural Environmental Services Element, will seek Relevant governments include the Wakulla resources including the Sopchoppy River, to “correct problems within the capacity of County School Board, Apalachee Regional Wetlands, Flood prone areas and the drainage facilities by coordinating with Planning Council, Northwest Florida Water environmentally sensitive natural Wakulla County.” Part of this coordination Management District, Wakulla County, habitats. included (Policy 2.2) requesting the Wakulla Special Service Districts, and the State of

167 Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan

Florida. Coordination will consist of making Council, and surrounding governments is plan modifications based on comments included in the Intergovernmental received from the above-mentioned Coordination Element, but it is clear that governmental agencies. interactions with Wakulla County are paramount. City of St. Marks Comprehensive The St. Marks Plan has been developed Plan with its relation to the Wakulla County The City’s Comp Plan provides provisions Plan as one if its prime considerations. that offer general support for the Byway. The The major effect of St. Marks’ Plan on Future Land Use Element seeks to be, as Wakulla County is to induce continuing described in Goal 1, “consistent with the growth of the County as both cause and existing character of the City” and to “not effect of St. Marks growth as a more pose a threat to human health and safety or balanced City. In the process, St. Marks to natural resources.” The Conservation will lean on the County due to greater Element, in its only goal, states that the City demand for county facilities and will “conserve, manage and protect its services, including permitting, but natural resources to the highest extent particularly for improved roads and possible.” This element utilizes coordination solid waste disposal (8-5). with Wakulla County to protect groundwater The Traffic Circulation Element, in its first resources, vegetation, ecological goal, establishes a roadway system that is communities, and threatened wildlife “safe, effective, and efficient,” and includes species (species of special concern). coordinating planning efforts with FDOT’s The Recreation and Open Space Element Five Year Transportation Plan (Objective requires buffer areas of open space adjacent 1.3). St. Marks has only one arterial road, to the St. Marks and Wakulla Rivers in land SR 363, which is part of the Scenic Byway, development regulations (Policy 1.2.1). and the City, through the year 2000, saw no need for immediate road improvements. The Coastal Management Element Present day traffic flows are light, and describes protection procedures in the case based upon projected growth no of natural disaster, protects marine arterial or collector roadway resources, and St. Marks and Wakulla improvement will be required. The Rivers, including developing 25-foot buffer principal improvements needed will be areas of native vegetation adjacent to the the maintenance of existing paved rivers. In addition, this Element considers local roadways and the reconstruction the entire jurisdiction to be a coastal area. of existing graded roadways to effect safer driving conditions and more Coordination with the Wakulla County efficient traffic flow.” School Board, Apalachee Regional Planning

168 Chapter 13:

Partnerships and Agreements

The Big Bend Scenic Byway CAG has • Leon County Tourist Development Council Based Businesses to encourage established informal partnerships with a • Langford Foundation development of tourism-related jobs. number of entities over the past five years to • Wakulla Springs State Park & Lodge • Preliminary discussions with Apalachicola encourage Byway-related improvements. For • Wakulla Bank National Forest, Florida State Parks, Tate’s example, members of the CAG worked with • Wakulla County Chamber of Commerce Hell and Wakulla Springs State Forests, the Ochlockonee Bay Bike Trail Committee and St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge on • Apalachicola Chamber of Commerce to establish a bike trail along the Byway the eradication of invasive exotic species Corridor, and Keep Wakulla County • Carrabelle Chamber of Commerce and planting of wild flowers along their Beautiful and local students to construct a • Wakulla County Economic Development portions of the Byway Corridor. picturesque maritime mosaic—known Council • Grant application support for the Big Bend locally as the Great Wall of Panacea. More • Florida DEP-Office of Environmental Maritime Center. formal agreements have been used to secure Education • Preliminary discussions with Panacea funding for Byway Projects. For example, • Panacea Blue Crab Committee Waterfronts Florida Partnership to explore businesses and agencies were asked to sign • ERA Community Realty a Special Overlay District along the a Sponsorship Agreement stipulating that • Wakulla Realty Byway Corridor in Panacea. the business/organization would help • Ochlockonee Bay Realty • Preliminary discussions with Apalachicola promote the image of the Big Bend Scenic National Forest on prescribed fire Byway through the purchase and • Century 21 interpretation. dissemination of copies of The Guide to the • Resort Vacation Properties Big Bend Scenic Byway, according to the • Harbor Point Realty • Preliminary discussions with Florida Fish following scale: • Sandy Beach Properties & Wildlife Conservation Commission on upgrading canoe/kayak launch sites along • The Inn at Wildwood • 225 copies with a personalized gold seal the Apalachicola River. • Waterfront Properties, LLC for $500 • Exploration of partnership opportunities • 500 copies with a personalized gold seal • St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge between the Wakulla and Franklin County for $1,050 Currently the Big Bend Scenic Byway is Tourist Development Councils to promote • 1,000 copies with a personalized gold developing partnerships and agreements by and market the Big Bend Scenic Byway. seal for $2,050 building on the strength of existing • 1,500 copies with a personalized gold The possibilities for developing partnerships relationships of its CME members. Having and agreements to implement the Corridor seal for $3,000 already prioritized actions of the Corridor • A separate fee of $75.00 was required to Master Plan are almost limitless. Management Plan, CME members are now Agreements among partnering entities can place a name and logo as “Sponsor” on pursuing the following partnership inside back cover of The Guide take the form of simple written documents opportunities: (e.g., a letter) or a more formal With the assistance of the nonprofit Florida • Preliminary discussions with Tallahassee Memorandum of Understanding. The BBSB Foresight, over 14,000 copies of The Guide Community College to sponsor a course CAG recently compiled the following were funded through sponsorship on Nature- and Heritage-Based Tourism. proposed projects: agreements with: • Preliminary discussions with The Inn at • Donation of materials and labor to • Tallahassee Community College Wildwood and the Association of Nature- construct information kiosks

171 Partnerships and Agreements

• Development of information for kiosks • Donation of trees and native vegetation to be planted along the Byway • Creation of Scenic Byway materials • Provision of services for Byway activities • Donation of conservation and/or recreation easements • Removal of invasive/exotic plant species • Construction of walking paths • Co-sponsorship of Byway events • Design of murals, street art, or facilities along the Byway • Clean-up of dilapidated buildings, litter, and/or trash along the Byway • Co-sponsorship of grants for Byway projects • Provision of labor and/or materials for beautification projects • Assistance with training and education projects

Once the Big Bend Scenic Byway has been designated and the CME formalized, both formal and informal agreements and partnerships to implement the CMP will be initiated. An existing Partnership Agreement established between the Big Bend Scenic Byway CME and Florida Foresight, along with a sample Partnership Agreement form, are also included in Appendix N.

172 Chapter 14:

Action Plan

This Action Plan outlines actions the Corridor Promotion & Administration Appendix O) to provide a ‘quick glance’ of all Corridor Management Entity will work J Promotion the projects their group will be involved in. towards in support of the Goals, Objectives, K Economic Development Strategies, and Corridor Vision. The Action L Administration Plan serves as the “instruction manual” on Funding Sources M Coordination how to implement the Corridor The CAG divided the potential funding Management Plan. The Big Bend Scenic The abbreviations used in the Matrix for sources (described in Chapter 11) into eight Byway Action Plan is considered a ‘living Responsible Parties and Funding Sources categories: document’ that will be revised over time by are explained in Table 14.10. A. Community Redevelopment & the CME to reflect current conditions along Revitalization the Byway corridor. The CME will evaluate, B. Cultural & Historic and when necessary, revise the Action Plan Responsible Parties C. Education & Promotion every year during the development of the The members of the Big Bend Scenic Byway Annual Report. CAG identified a wide variety of groups that D. Landscaping & Beautification should be involved in implementing the E. Roadway, Pedestrian, & Bicycle The Action Plan is organized into two Action Plan. They are grouped into six Improvements categories: Corridor Improvements/ categories and each is assigned a letter. For F. Parks & Public Lands Maintenance; and Corridor Promotion/ example, the USDA Apalachicola National G. Beach Erosion & Hazard Mitigation Administration. Each category includes Forest is under 1. Government Agencies- H. Stormwater Management generalized Topic Areas, followed by more Federal and assigned the letter B. In the specific Actions, Goals, Objectives, Action Plan Matrix, this particular The funding sources are numbered, Strategies, Responsible Parties, Time Frame, Responsible Party appears as 1B. arranged alphabetically under each and Funding Sources. The estimated time category, and are identified by the frames are defined as: (S) short-term for 1–5 Although the Corridor Management Entity responsible agency or entity. The years; (L) long-term for 6–15 years; or (O) will be involved in all aspects of corresponding numbering system (A1, B6, ongoing. The 13 Topic Areas of the Action implementing the Action Plan, other etc.) is used to identify potential funding Plan include the following: “responsible parties” are identified in the sources in the Action Plan. Action Plan Matrix. The CME or CAG have Corridor Improvements & Maintenance been identified as a Responsible Party when A funding source is listed more than once if A Transportation Planning & Safety they would be expected to exercise primary program funds can be applied to multiple B Land Use/Zoning leadership, such as applying for national categories. For example, the Florida Coastal C Utilities designation or developing a corridor-wide Management Grant is listed under three D Landscaping/Beautification Work Plan. funding categories. E Public Access The Big Bend Scenic Byway CAG developed F Trail Development a stakeholder matrix for each of the CME G Tourism/Recreation Facilities members to identify all Action Items H Historic/Cultural Preservation associated with their respective Responsible I Interpretation/Signage Party. The matrix has all Action Items in rows and Responsible Party in columns (see

175 Action Plan

176 Action Plan

177 Action Plan

178 Action Plan

179 Action Plan

180 Action Plan

181 Action Plan

182 Action Plan

183 Action Plan

184 Action Plan

185

A) FDOT Authorization Letter

B) SHAC Eligibility Application Comments

C) Wakulla FLUM

D) Franklin FLUM

E) Billboard Inventory

F) Complete Intrinsic Resource List by County

G) Intrinsic Resource Visibility Inventory

H) Combined Initial Goals and Preliminary Action Plans

I) CME Agreement and Bylaws

J) CME Meeting Materials

K) Community Participation Program

L) Local Support

M) Potential Sources of Grant Funding

N) Sample Partnership Agreement

O) Stakeholder Matrix

Appendix A – FDOT Authorization Letter

189

Appendix B – SHAC Eligibility Application Comments

193

Appendix C – Wakulla FLUM

225

Appendix D – Franklin FLUM

227

Appendix E – Billboard Inventory

229

Appendix F – Complete Intrinsic Resource List by County

231

Appendix G – Intrinsic Resource Visibility Inventory

235

Appendix H – Combined Initial Goals and Preliminary Action Plans

239

Appendix I – CME Agreement and Bylaws

245

Appendix J – CME Meeting Materials

255

Appendix K – Community Participation Program

259

Appendix L – Local Support

271

Appendix M – Potential Sources of Grant Funding

281

Appendix N – Sample Partnership Agreement

287

Appendix O – Stakeholder Matrix

291