DALLAS BOROUGH, LUZERNE COUNTY D

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COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

PREPARED FOR DALLAS BOROUGH COUNCIL AND PLANNING COMMISSION

W AND MALCOLM STRACHAN, PLANNING CONSULTANT COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN FOR DALLAS BOROUGH , LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA 1980

APPROVED UNA IIMOUSLY BY BOROUGH COUNCIL ON SEPTEMBER 23, 1980

The preparation of this report was financed in part through a planning grant from the Deartment of Community Affairs under the provisions of Act 16A approved May 31, 1978, as administered by the Bureau of Planning, Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs

THE CHESTER ENGINEERS ENGINEERS ARCHITECTS PLANNERS (41 2) 262- 1035

AND

MALCOLM STRACHAN PL,ANNING CONSULTANT ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

BOROUGH COUNCIL Harold L. Brobst, President William Bert:, Vice President Wi 11ard Newberry D. Craig Aicher Kenneth Young Nancy Eckert Jerry Flachell

MAY OR James B. Davies, 111

BOROUGH SECRETARY Ralph C. Garris

BOROUGH TREASURER Wi 11 i am Baker

BOROUGH SOLICITOR Johen E. Morris

BOROUGH ENGINEER Leo Corbet

PLANNING COMMI S I ON Warren Y arnell Thomas E. Reese Charles Lemmond Richard Di sque A. T. Common

OTHER PARTICIPANTS Paul Sol ornon, P1 anni ng Analyst Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs Luzerne County Planning Commission Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Luzerne County Transportation Authority TE-fE CH&S"i"ER ENc2ENEERS

845 Fourth Avenue Coreopolis. PA 151OS Phone [412] 262-1 035 Phone (4121 771-4320

October 9, 1980 Ref. No. 3045-02

Mr. Harold L. Brobst, President Dall as Borough Counci 1 Dall as Borough Bui 1 ding Main Street Da 1 1as , Pennsy 1 vani a 1861 2 Dear Mr. Brobst: Dallas Borough Comprehensive Master Plan We are pleased to submit herewith the Dallas Borough Comprehensive Master Plan. This plan, a long range guide for the future growth and development of the community, has been completed through the cooperation and assistance of Borough officials and interested citizens. We would like to extend a special thanks to Ms. Nancy Eckert, Councilperson and Mr. Ralph Garris, Borough Secretary for their assistance during the planning process. It was a pleasure serving the Planning Commission, Borough Council and the Community in the development of this plan. If we can ever be of further assistance to your Community, please feel free to contact us. Very truly yours, THE CHESTER ENGINEERS a+ a+ %- Anthony M. Caffarell Communi ty PI anner AMC/nl k COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE NO. TABLE OF CONTENTS ...... i

LIST OF TABLES ...... V LIST OF FIGURES ...... Vii LIST OF PLATES ...... Viii CHAPTER I - INTRODUCTION ...... 1 PURPOSE OF THE STUDY ...... 1 LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION ...... 2 FORMATION AND HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT...... :...... 5 STUDY GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ...... 7 '.

CHAPTER I1 - EXISTING CONDITIONS ...... 13 POPULATION ...... HISTORIC POPULATION TRENDS...... 13 AGE-SEX D~STRIBUTION...... 16 NATURAL INCREASE AND MIGRATION...... 18 POPULATION PROJECTIONS...... 19 HOUSING ...... 20 HOUSING STOCK CHARACTERISTICS...... 20 .HOUSING VAUIE...... 24 HOUSING DE~ND...... 24 LAND USE...... 27

' ENVIRONMENTAL AND PHYSICAL FEATURES...... 31 SOILS...... 31 SLOPES...... 31 FLOOD HAZARD AREAS...... 32

i TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONTINUED)

PAGE NO. ECONOMY ...... 32 ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS...... 32 LABOR FORCE CHARACTERISTICS...... 40 EMPLOYMENT BY MAJOR INDUSTRY CLASSIFICATION...... 42 IN-PLACE MANUFACTURING EMPLOYMENT...... 44 INCOME...... 44 TRANSPORTATION AND THOROUGHFARES ...... 48

STREET CLASSIFICATION AND DIMENSIONSIONS...... 48 TRAFFIC VOLUMES...... 53 PROJECTED’ TRAFFIC VOLUMES...... 52 TURNING MOV~ENTS...... 56 TRANSIT SERVICE ...... 58 COMMUNITY FACILITIES ...... 59 RECREATION FACILITIES ...... 59 EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES...... 63 LIBRARY FACILITIES...... 66 SEWER FACILITIES...... 67 WATER FACILITIES...... 68 FIRE AND AMBULANCE PROTECTION...... 73 DALLAS BOROUGH POLICE DEPARlWENT...... 74 CHAPTER I11 - BUSINESS DISTRICT PLA...... 75 DALLAS BOROUGH RETAIL TRADE AREA ...... 75 BUSINESS ACTIVITY IN THE BOROUGH...... 76 EXISTING CONDITIONS ...... 79 APPE~NCE...... 79 PARUNG...... 79 TRAFFIC CIRCULATION...... 80 BUSINESS DISTRICTPLAN...... 81 PRIVATE ~PROVEMENTS...... :...... 81 ADDITIONAL PARUNG FACILITIES...... 87

ii TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT I NUED 1

PAGE NO . CHAPTER IV .COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ...... 91 LAND USE PLAN ...... 91 FUTURE LAND USE AREAS ...... 92 ZONING ANALYSIS ...... 97 COMMUNITY FACILITIES ...... 103 RECREATION FACILITIES ...... 103 BIKE PATH ...... 103 EDUCATION FACILITIES ...... 104 LIBRARY FACILITIES ...... 104 FIRE, AMBULANCE. POLICE AND BOROUGH OFFICE FACILITY ...... 105 SEWER FACILITIES ...... 107 WATER FACILITIES ...... 107 TRANSPORTATION AND THOROUGHFARE PLAN ...... 108 LOCAL STREETS ...... 108 COLLECTORS...... 109 INTERSECTION IMPROVIWENTS ...... 109 .. CHAPTER V .FISCAL STUDY ...... 113

FINANCIAL TRENDS ...... 113 . R.ENUES ...... 115 CASH BALANCE ...... 115 EXPENDITURES ...... 115 RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURE TRENDS AND PROJECTIONS...... 115 OUTSTANDING INDEBTEDNESS AND DEBT LIMITATIONS ...... 117 EXISTING DEBT ...... 117 DEBT LIMIT ...... 117 OTHER METHODS OF FINANCING ...... 118 PAY-AS-YOU-GO ...... 118 REVOLVING FUNDS ...... 119 MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY ...... 120 STATE AND FEDERAL FUNDING ...... 120

iii TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONTINUED)

PAGE NO. SIX YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM ...... 120 PRIORITY RANkTNG...... 121 SIX YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVi5MENTS PLAN ...... 121 A OF APPENDIX - CRITIQUE EXISTING ZONING ORDINANCE TEXT ...... A- 1 B . APPENDIX LOCAL ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION TAX ASSISTANCE...... B- 1

iV COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY. PENNSYLVANIA

LIST OF TABLES

TABLE NO . PAGE NO . 11-1 HISTORIC AND PROJECTED POPULATION STATISTICS ..... 14 11-2 HOUSING UNITS BY STRUCTURE TYPE ...... 22 11-3 HOUSING TENURE ...... 22 11-4 HOUSING UNITS BY YEAR STRUCTURE BUILT ...... 23 11-5 OWNER OCCUPIED HOUSING UNITS ...... 25 11-6 RENTER OCCUPIED HOUSING UNITS ...... 25 11-7 HOUSING DEMAND ESTIMATES ...... 26 11-8 EXISTING LAND USE ...... 28 11-9 ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS ...... 39 11-10 LABOR FORCE CHARACTERISTICS AND LABOR PARTICIPATION RATES ...... 41 11-11 EMPLOYMENT BY MAJOR INDUSTRY CLASSIFICATION ...... 43 11-12 IN-PLACE MANUFACTURING EMPLOYMENT ...... 45 11-13 MAJOR DURABLE AND NON-DURABLE MANUFACTURERS ...... 46 11-14 INCOME FOR FAMILIES AND UNRELATED INDIVIDUALS .... 47 11-15 STREET CHARACTERISTICS AND STANDARDS ...... 49 11-16 INVENTORY OF RECREATION FACILITIES ...... 61 11-17 INVENTORY OF RECREATION PROGRAMS ...... 62 11-18 DALLAS SCHOOL DISTRICT ENROLLMENT TRENDS ...... 65 111-1 COMMERCIAL AND SERVICE FUNCTIONS BY TYPE ...... 78 LIST OF TABLES (CONTINUED)

TABLE NO. PAGE NO. IV- 1 LAND USE PLAN ACREAGE ...... 95 v- 1 SUMMARY OF GENERAL FUND RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURES ...... 114 v- 2 PROJECTED RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURES ...... 116 v- 3 CALCULATION OF BOROUGH'S NONELECTORAL DEBT LIMIT ...... 1'17 v- 4 SIX YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN ...... 122

Vi COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURE NO. PAGE NO. I- 1 PHYSICAL AND CULTURAL FEATURES...... 6 11-1 HISTORIC AND PROJECTED POPULATION STATISTICS ..... 15 11-2 AGE-SEX POPULATION DISTRIBUTION ...... 17 11-3 TRAFFIC VOLUMES - 1977...... 51 11-4 TRAFFIC VOLUME ESTIMATES...... 53 11-5 TRAFFIC VOLUMES PER HOUR ...... 55 11-6 DIRECTIONAL TRAFFIC FLOW DIAGRAM ...... 57

111-1 DALLAS BOROUGH RETAIL TRADE AREA ...... ’ 77 111-2 PROPOSED PARKING PLAN ...... 88 IV-1 DALLAS CENTER TRAFFIC RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 110 .. IV-2 DALLAS SHOPPING AREA TRAFFIC RECOMMENDATIONS ..... 111

Vii COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

LIST OF PLATES

PLATE NO. I- 1 REGIONAL ORIENTATION MAP...... '...... 3 11-1 EXISTING LAND USE...... 29 11-2 SOIL'SUITABILITY...... 33 11-3 SLOPES...... 35 11-4 DRAINAGE DIVIDES AND FLOOD HAZARD ZONES ...... 37 11-5 SEWER LINES AND SERVICE AREAS ...... 69 11-6 WATER LINES AND SERVICE AREAS ...... 71 111-1 FACADE STUDY - MAIN STREET ...... 83 IV- 1 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ...... 93 IV-2 ZONING DISTRICTS - ZOOO...... 99

viii COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

CHAPTER I I NTRODUCT I ON

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

A comprehensive master plan examines the broad spectrum of physical, social and economic elements of the community in order to develop policy guidelines for directing future growth. After examination of each of these elements separately, they are related and coordinated w th each other to achieve the stated local goals and objectives. This comprehensive master plan for Dallas Borough not only examines the raditional comprehensive pl anni ng elements such as 1and use , population , communi ty facilities, etc. , but also the Borough's central business district.

In most communities, the central business district (CBD) is usually .. the hub of both economic and social activity. Frequently, strangers obtain their initial impression of a community while traveling through the central business district on a major transportation route. Residents of the community and surrounding area frequent the central business district to shop and utilize the services provided.

The drawing power of a comunity's central business district is primarily a function of the number and variety of commercial and service establishments available. Two other factors which influence the drawing power of the central business district are attractiveness and con- venience.

-1 - A central business district possessing attractive store fronts, clean, shaded streets, and provisions for pedestrian circulation and comfort stands a better chance of attracting more business. The accessibility of the central business district via automobile and mass transportation, together with ample and convenient parking facilities also enhances the drawing power.

After an examination of the central business district's assets and liabilities, a plan was developed to achieve the goal of improving the central business district. Both public and private involvement will be considered in the developing a plan for implementation.

This plan is the result of many months of data gathering, analysis and synthesis relative to the past and existing conditions within the Borough. The plan that has been developed is by no means final, but does however, reflect current local goals and objectives relative to the existing conditions and estimated future potential of the Borough. With the passage of time, conditions change, additional development occurs, and therefore these plans should be re-examined in light of these changes

LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION

Dallas Borough is located n the north central portion of Luzerne County. As shown in Plate 1-1, the Borough is bounded by Dallas Town- ship on the north, east and south and by Lehman Township on the west. The Borough is located about nine (9) miles north of the City of Wilkes- Barre, the Luzerne County Seat, which is located on the North Branch of the Susquehanna River in the Wyoming Valley. According to the 1970 u. s Census, Dallas Borough is a part of the Wilkes-Barre urbanized area and the Wi 1 kes-Barre-Hazel ton Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area which consists of all of Luzerne County. Pennsylvania Routes 309 and 15 connect the Borough to Kingston Borough and the City of

-2- c I m REGIONAL ORIENTATION MAP DALLAS BOROUGH & THE GREATER BACK MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY AREA LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

LEGEND @ STATE ROUTES @ U.S. ROUTES 1 @ INTERSTATE ROUTES BOUNDARY OF GREATER - BACK MOUNTAIN AREA

0 I 23

PLATE 1-1

\ \ \ \ Wilkes-Barre to the south. To the north, Pennsylvania Route 415 links Dallas Borough to Harvey's Lake Borough and Pennsylvania Route 309 connects the Borough to Tunkhannock, the Wyoming County Seat.

Relative relief within the Borough is approximately 200 feet, the lowest point being 1,080 feet above sea level and the highest point at 1,340 feet above sea level (see Figure 1-1). In comparison, the Sus- quehanna River pool level near Kingston Borough is 520 feet above sea level.

Major bodies of water include the Huntsville Reservoir located in the western portion of the Borough and in Lehman Township. The reservoir and its tributaries drain about two-thirds of the Borough and Toby Creek, which parallels Pennsylvania Routes 415 and 309, receives runoff from the remaining portion. Two tributaries drain to the Creek within the Borough (see Figure 1-1). The first enters the Creek just south of the northern boundary of the Borough (Center Hill Road) and the second enters behind the Post Office on the east side of Pennsylvania Route 415 .. and 309.

FORMATION AND HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT

In order to have school taxes applied to the construction of a new Dallas High School, area residents presented a petition for the formation of Dallas Borough to a grand jury on January 4, 1879. The applica- t ion, which was opposed by Towns hip Supervi sors and school di rectors, was finally approved April 21, 1879.

The historical development of the Borough is linked to the development of the Wyoming Valley. Until the discovery of anthracite coal in 1825, the Wyoming Val ley was predominantly agricultural in nature. Growth in the valley occurred at a rapid rate as a result of the development of the coal industry and canal and railroad facilities during the mid eighteen hundreds. From the 1850's to the early part of the

-5- I! PHYSICAL AND CULTURAL FEATURES DALLAS BOROUGH, LUZERNE COUNTY d

1600' 0 1600' 3200'

..-- -- _- twentieth century, the area became a leading center for anthracite coal. Low wages and the availability of surplus female labor fostered the growth of the textile and garment industry in the valley in the 1940's. Employment in the coal industry declined over the period 1940-1960 and the importation of clothing from abroad made it difficult for the garment industry to compete. The Val ley experienced high out-migration and unemployment during this period. An upturn in employment occurred in the 1960's as the economic situation began to improve. Recently, new light industries have begun to locate in the valley.

STUDY GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

The following goals and objectives will be used in guiding the development of the Dallas Borough Comprehensive Master Plan. It is intended that these goals be realistic and attainable and consider the present characteristics of Dallas Borough and its Central Business District. Changing community desires, problems, and financial resources may necessitate a reassessment of these goals and objectives at some .. future point in time.

1. LAND USE GOAL: Encourase efficient and harmonious utilization of land for com6ercial and residential use. OBJECTI VES : a. The existing general land use pattern should be maintained and protected. The presence of public utilities, shopping, and highway access will draw new development to Dal las. b. Residential growth should be channeled into areas where sewer and water services either exist or can be easily extended by developers.

C. Commercial growth and redevelopment should be designed to have safe highway access, adequate off- P street parking and storm water management, and at least some landscaping.

- 7- d. All new development should respect the natural features and drainage patterns of the land. De- velopment should be restricted in areas subject to flooding, underlaid by poor soils or containing steep sl opes. 2. POPULATION AND HOUSING L GOAL : Maintain the character and quality of existing housing in the Borough and encourage the development of new I housing to accommodate the modest population growth expected in the future. I OBJECTIVES : a. The Borough should encourage the development of additional housing within i ts 1 imi ts to accommodate I a gradually rising population. b. The character and quality of existing housing should I be maintained. Dilapidated houses should be removed and deteriorated housing should be rehabilitated to a standard condition. L c. The Borough should consider the adoption of a housing code to guarantee the quality of older housing. d. Older dwellings too large to be maintained by individual families and in danger of becoming deteriorated should be converted to two or three family dwellings. e. Housing for the elderly should be encouraged near the central business area. Such housing should preferably be provided by a non-profi t corporation under a rent subsidy program. f. The planned residential development approach should be used in developing large properties that contain development problems or significant amenities.

3. COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND UTILITIES GOAL: Provide adequate community facilities, utilities and emergency services for the existing and future Borough residents.

-a- OBJECTIVES : a. Public sewers should be extended at developer expense to the limits of the watersheds now served, as development proceeds. b. The Borough should take steps to alleviate potential storm water drainage problems by creating retention basins and requiring developers to release storm water from their properties at a control led rate.

C. Recreation activities should be available to all age groups; using municipal, school, college and church facilities to the maximum in order to avoid duplica- tion. Special attention should be given to the needs of the elderly. d. Because of the Borough's position in the Back Mountain area, it should be the center for emergency services coordination throughout the region. e. The Borough Building should be examined to see if certain services, such as the streets department or fire department, could be relocated, or if a second building should be acquired for administrative functions. 4. TRAFFIC AND PARKING

GOAL : Improve the functioning and safety of both vehicular and pedestrian circulation within the Borough and especially in the central business district.

OB3 ECTIVES : a. Proposed improvements to relieve congestion and increase safety should be the minimum needed to achieve the desired result. Addition of turning lanes, adjustment of signal cycles and elimination of unneeded access points might be typical improvements provi ding major benefits . b. Consideration should be given to pedestrians and bi cycl i s ts i n preparing the pl an. Separate bi keways between major locations should be studied and safe pedestrian crossing points along highways provided.

-9- c. New street construction should avoid curbing and ex- 1 cessively wlde pavements to recharge the ground water table as quickly as possible and lessen run-off problems. 1 d. Commuters from the Dallas area to Wilkes-Barre and Scranton should be encouraged to drisve to designated parking lots in the Dallas business area for pick-up by 1 express buses. e. Access of new commercial development to the highway should be carefully located to assure safe entry and exit 1 and adjacent properties should be encouraged to share access drives to reduce the number of conflict points and attain maximum sight distances. I 5. CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT 1 GOAL: Improve the appearance and functioning of the Central Business District, thereby making it more competitive relative to other retail centers. 1 OBJECT I VES : a. The older business area along Main Street west of Route I 415 should be encouraged to renew itself.

b. New commercial growth, particularly special ty-type shops, should be channeled there rather than along the highway. c. The area should be made more attractive through public and private action. Public action should include intersection improvements, repair of sidewalks , leadership in the provision of additional off-street parking, and development of new signage controls. Private action should include facade improvements and repair of rear areas of the buildings. An overall policy of sign arrangement and repainting should be adopted. d. Use should be made of vacant upper floor space for apartments or offices. 6. ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION GOAL: Encourage the wise use and management of the Borough's natural resources and protect them from the adverse effects of unsound new development.

-1 0- OBJECTIVES: a. New development should have a minimum impact upon the original ground surface by siting structures, parking and circulation to keep grading and removal of trees and ground cover to a minimum; by controlling storm water run-off and recharging as much water as possible to the water table; and by encouraging planned residential development to preserve hillsides, woods and floodplains. b. Parks, playgrounds, schools and shopping areas should be connected by sidewal ks and/or bikeways. c. School and recreation departments should make maximum use of park and natural areas to teach environmental apprecia- tion and nature studies.

-11- COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

CHAPTER I1 EXISTING CONDITIONS

POPULATION

HISTORIC POPULATION TRENDS

Dallas Borough's population has been growing steadily for the past several decades as shown in Table 11-1 and Figure 11-1. During the 40 year period, 1930 to 1970, the population increased by 1,210 persons or 102 percent. Examined in another way, this is an increase of 30 persons per year. During this 40 year period the largest increase, 555 persons, occurred during the 1950 decade. Recent estimates made by the U. S. Census Bureau show the Borough's population increasing from 2,398 in 1970 to 2,825 in 1975. This trend is consistent with the municipalities.' surrounding the Borough in the Greater Back Mountain Community Area, as shown in Table 11-1.

While Dallas Borough and the Greater Back Mountain Area experienced increases in population over the period 1930-1970, Luzerne County's population decreased from 445,109 to 342,478. This was a total loss of 102,631 or 23 percent over the 40 year period. The major portion of this total loss occurred during the 1940's and the 1950's. The County continued to loose population from 1960 to 1970; however, this loss was only about 4,500 or one-tenth of the loss that occurred during the two previous decades. The 1975 estimated population of the County, according to the U. s. Census Bureau was 345,645. This is an increase of 3,167 or .9 percent over the 1970 figure. Thus, the previous declining trend in the County's population appears to be reversed to an increasing trend.

-1 3- .- I__---

TABLE 11-1 HISTORIC AND PROJECTED POPUL4TIr)N STATISTICS FOR DALLAS BOROUGH, THE SREATER BACK MOUNTAIN ARE4 AND LUZERME COUNTY, PEr\lNSVLVANI A 1930-2020

1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 20 20 -1930 -1940 1950 - 1960 - _I I_ Dall as Borough 1,198 1,484 1,674 2,229 2,398 2,760 3,035 3,260 3,450 3,590

I Absolute Change - +296 +190 t555 t169 t362 t2 75 t225 t190 t140 AP % Change - +24.9 t12.9 4-33.2 t7.6 t15.1 t10.0 t7.4 t5.8 t4.1 I Greater Back Mountain Area* 10,542 13,527 14,744 18,546 22,686 29,095 33,385 37,860 42,480 47,210 Absolute Change - +2,985 +1,217 +3,802 t4,140 t6,409 +4,290 +4,475 +4,620 +4,730 % Change - t28.3 t9 .o t25.8 t22.4 t28.3 +14.7 t13.4 t12.2 t11.1 Luzerne County 445,109 441,518 392,241 346,972 342,478 362,000 383,500 404,500 426,000 446,900 Absolute Change - -3,591 -49,277 -45,269 -4,494 +19,522 +21,500 +21,000 +21,500 +20,900 % Change - - .8 -11.2 -11.5 -1.3 t5.7 t5.9 t5.5 4-5.3 t4.9

* Includes the Boroughs of Dallas and Harveys Lake and the Townships of Dallas, Franklin, Jackson, Kingston, Lake, and Lehman.

SOURCE: U .S. Census Bureau and the Luzerne County P1 anni ng Comini ssion. HISTORIC A JD PROJECTED POPI ATION STATISTICS FOR DALLAS BOROUGH, THE GREATER BACK MOUNTAIN AREA AND LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA 1930 - 2020

1,ooo,o0O I I 1 I 1 1 I I 1 I 800,000 I I I I 1 I I I I I 600,000

400,000

200,000

100,000 80,000

60,000

40.000

20,000

10,000 8,000

6,000

4,000

2,oqo

1.oo $30a 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 201 0 2020 KEY YEAR 4k, - HISTORIC POPULATION i? -- PROJECTED POPULATION f SOURCE US CENSUS BUREAU AND THE LUZERNE FIGURE 11-1 J COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION - 'i '.," ,-i' t " '... ,'./[* As a result of tropical storm Agnes in June of 1972, variations in the population distribution in the Wyoming Valley and surrounding area have occurred. Population losses occurred along the river flood plain in the Valley while the Back Mountain and Mountain Top areas continued to grow.

AGE-SEX DISTRIBUTION

Dallas Borough and Luzerne County, age-sex groups by five year intervals for 1960 and 1970 are shown by the population pyramids in Figure 11-2. The pyramids show each five year age-sex group as a percentage of the total population, thus indicating the different per- centages of males and females in each age group and also comparing the Dallas Borough profile with the County's. In general, recent changes in life expectancy and birth rates have had the affect of altering the "true" pyramid shape of an area's population distribution. Smaller birth rates have made pyramids narrower at the bottom, while increased life expectancy has broadened the tops of the pyramids. An examination of the Borough's and County's less than 5 and 5-9 groups for 1960 and 1970 reveals the decline in births and a narrowing of the base of the pyramids while the tops (75 and over age group), have broadened.

The post war "baby boom'' population appears as a bulge in both sets of pyramids in the 10-14 and 15-19 age group. The relative large percentage of females in the Borough 15-19 and 20-24 age groups is probably a result of Misericordia College (previously an all girls school) students residing in the Borough.

The narrowing of the pyramid in the groups from age 20 to 39 is explained in part by the relative y low birth rates in the 1930's. Another reason for the pattern is the out-migration of young workers in this age group due to the lack of employment opportunities. Persons in this age group are likely to have a family; therefore, losses in this -1 6- 1 e AGE-SEX POPULATION DISTRIBUTION AGE-SEX POPULATION DISTRIBUTION DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY

AGE -r-nlTr m AGE POPULATION 2.229 75 AN0 OVER 75 AND OVER 70-74 70-74 I 65-69 65 -69 I 60-64 60-64 I 55-59 55 -59 50-54 50-54 45-49 45-49 i 40-44 40-44 35-39 35-39 30-34 30-34 25-29 25 -29 20-24 20-24 15-19 15-19 10-14 10-14 !I 5- 9 5- 9 LESS THAN 5 LESS THAN 5 i

j I 11970 i I i I AGE POPULATION ,398 AGE i I ~ ' I POPULATION 342 478

I 75 AN0 OVER 75 AN0 OVER 10-74 70-14 I 65-69 65-69 60-64 60-64 I 55 -59 55-59 50-54 50.54 45-49 45-49 40-44 L 40-44 i 35-39 35-39 I 30-34 30-34 25-29 25-29 20-24 20-24 15-19 15-19 10-14 10-14 5- 9 5- 9 LESS THAN 5 LESS THAN 5 7 8 6765432 IO 12 1 4321012345 1 PERCENT OF TOTAL POPULATION PERCENT OF TOTAL POPULATION

L __ +--MALES 1- FEMALES .-d +MALES 1- FEMALES 4

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

EIfiIIRC IlLr) group ultimately affect the birth rate and the number of children under 14 years of age. From 1960 to 1970, the percentage of persons in this group in Dallas Borough increased as a result of improved employment conditions and out-migration from the more urbanized areas of the Wyoming Valley to Dallas Borough.

NATURAL INCREASE AND MIGRATION

Population changes occur as a result of changes in the number of births, deaths, and persons moving into or out of an area. Birth and death statistics for Dallas Borough were obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of Health for the period 1960 to 1975. During the ten year period 1960-1970, there were 360 births and 311 deaths in the Borough, an excess of 49 births over deaths. The Borough's population increased 169 over the same period and therefore, an in-migration of 120 persons occurred during the 1960's decade. This means that every year there was an average of 36 births, 31 deaths and 12 persons entering the Borough. From 1970 to 1975, there were 200 births and 176 deaths, an excess of 24 births over deaths. During this same period, it has been estimated that the Borough's population increased by 427 and therefore, an in-migration of 403 persons occurred during the five year period. A significant number of these migrants were displaced from their homes in Wil kes-Barre and Kingston as a result of tropical storm Agnes in 1972. For the period 1970-1975, there were on the average 40 births, 35 deaths and 81 in-migrants to the Borough per year. Thus, the rate of births and deaths between 1970-1975 has increased sl over the 1960 s decade while in-migration has increased by about seven (7) times. Luzerne County over the same periods exper enced the fol owing: i

-1 8- 1 1 1960- 1970 1970-1 975 Births 51,125 20,411 Deaths 36 ,981 22 ,497 Natural Increase +14,144 - 2,086 Population Change -45 ,269 + 3,167 I Mi grati on -59,413 + 5,253

The above shows that during the 1960's the natural increase (births minus deaths) could not make up for the large loss of population due to out-migration. During the period 1970-1975, despite the fact that there were more deaths than births, the County population increased by about 3,200 due to the in-migration of 5,253 people. Over the fifteen year period 1960-1975, the number of births per year has decreased while the number of deaths per year has almost remained constant. On the other hand, both the number of births and deaths per year for Dallas Borough has remained relatively constant.

AVERAGE FAMILY SIZE AND POPULATION DENSITY

.' In 1970, 651 families and 636 unrelated individuals resided in the Borough. Using the 1970 census population figure of 2,398, the average family size is 2.71 persons.

The land area of the Borough is 2.4 square miles. Based on the 1970 populatfon, the Borough's population density is 999.2 persons per square mile.

POPULATION PROJECTIONS

According to the population projections , developed by the Luzerne County Planning Commission shown in Table 11-1 and Figure 11-1, Dallas Borough's population is expected to increase by 1,192 or 49.7 percent from 1970 to 2020. The largest portion of this total increase, 362 or 15.0 percent, is expected to occur during the present decade.

-1 9- The Greater Back Mountain Community Area, which includes Dallas Borough, is expected to increase by 24,524 or 108 percent over the same period. As was true for Dallas Borough the largest portion of the increase, 6,409 or 26.1 percent, is expected to occur during the 1970's. Increases for the remaining four (4) decades are in the neighborhood of 4,500 persons per decade.

The increases that Luzerne County's population experienced during the early and mid 1970's are expected to continue and a total increase of 19,522 or 5.7 percent is projected from 1970 to 1980. The County population is expected to grow by about 21,000 persons per decade for the four succeeding decades.

HOUSING

The purpose of this section is to examine the characteristics of the existing housing supply in Dallas Borough and also determine future housing needs. As the Borough's population grows, the demand for housing will increase greatly. If this increased demand is not met by an increased supply of units, those that are available will command a higher price and thus make it difficult for persons of low and moderate incomes to acquire she1 ter.

HOUSING STOCK CHARACTERISTICS

The major housing type found in Dallas Borough is the single family detached unit which comprises 83.2 percent of the total housing units (see Table 11-2). Multiple family units account for 16.2 percent of the tota . This is more than the County, State and national figures as shown in Table 11-2. Thus, it can be seen that Dallas Borough is a predominant y single family residential community.

- 20- In 1970, 2.5 percent of the total housing units in the Borough were vacant. This was less than the County, State, and national figures which were 3.8 percent, 4.5 percent and 6.3 percent, respectively. Usually vacancy rates are indications of the amount of available housing supply. In this case, a small vacancy rate may indicate a shortage of housing units. Dallas Borough has a higher proportion of home owners than the County, State or Nation and a lower percentage of renter occupied housing units, as shown by the statistics in Table 11-3.

The following is a summary of the three major indices of housing quality: conditions of crowding, age of structure, and lack of sanitary facilities. The 1970 statistics for Dallas Borough will be compared to those for Luzerne County, Pennsylvania and the United States.

Overcrowding: A common index of overcrowding are those housing units that contain more than 1.01 persons per room. Dallas Borough has only .65 percent of its occupied units in this category, while Luzerne County has 4.41 percent and Pennsylvania and the Nation had 4.5 percent and 6.0 percent, respectively. Thus, it can be seen that overcrowding '' is not a serious problem in Dallas Borough.

Housing Age: Nearly half (48.7%) of the total housing units in Dallas Borough were constructed in 1939 or before, while Luzerne County has more tha;i three-fourths (76.5%) of its units constructed during this period and the State and the Nation had 58.8 percent and 40.6 percent, respectively. A post-war growth in housing construction in Dallas Borough between 1950-1959 is noted by the relatively large percentage of homes in this age bracket (Table 11-4). A similar growth trend for this period occurred in the State and the Nation, while Luzerne County does not show a high percentage of structures built during this period.

-21 - TABLE 11-2 HOUSING UNITS BY STRUCTURE TYPE: COMPARISON BY PERCENT - 1970

DALLAS L UZE RN E BOROUGH COUNTY PENNSYLVANIA UNITED STATES 1 Unit Detached 83.2 56.4 53.6 66.2 1 Unit Attached .6 4.5 19.0 2.9 2-4 Units 15.6 32.3 15.4 13.3 5 or more Units 0.6 5.6 9.7 14.5 Mobile Homes 0.0 1.2 2.3 3.1 TOTAL 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

TABLE 11-3 HOUSING TENURE FOR DALLAS BOROUGH, LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA AND THE UNITED STATES BY PERCENT - 1970

DALLAS LUZERNE TENURE BOROUGH COUNTY PENNSYLVANIA UNITED STATES Owner Occupied 77.1 63.6 65.7 59.0 Renter Occupied 19.5 31.9 29.8 34.8 Vacant for Sale .5 .4 .6 .7 Vacant for Rent .4 1.3 1.6 2.5 Vacant, Other’ 2.5 2.8 2.3 3.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Includes seasonal housing units. SOURCE: 1970 U. S. Census: Fourth County Summary Tape. 1970 U. S. Census of General Housing Characteristics for Pennsylvania: HC (1) 40. 1970 U. S. Census of General Housing Characteristics for the United States: HC (1) Al.

-22- TABLE 11-4 HOUSING UNITS BY YEAR STRUCTURE BUILT: A COMPARISON BY PERCENT - 1970

YEAR DALLAS LUZERNE STRUCTURE BUILT BOROUGH COUNTY PENNSYLVANIA UNITED STATES 1960-1 970 10.9 8.6 15.4 25.0 1950- 1959 24.6 6.5 16.5 21.4 1940- 1949 15.8 5.3 9.3 13.0

Pre- 1939 48.7 -79.6 _I__58.8 -40.6 TOTAL 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

SOURCE: 1970 U. S. Census of Detailed Housing Characteristics for Pennsylvania, HC (1) 40. 1970 U. S. Census of Detailed Housing Characteristics for the United States, HC (1) B1. 1970 U. S. Census: Fourth Count Summary Tape.

Lack of Sanitary Facilities: In 1970, less than one percent (.76%) of the housing units lacked some form of sanitary facilities. This is a very low percentage relative to all of Luzerne County which had 5.29 percent of its units lacking some plumbing facilities. The State and National figures were 4.7 percent and 6.9 percent, respectively.

General Housing Condition: Based on a visual inspection of the Borough's housing stock, no residential structures appeared to be in a delapidated condition (beyond repair). General areas where some of the structures appeared to be in need of minor repair and thus considered deteriorated are: both sides of Main Street south of the CBD; on both sides of Franklin Street near the Dallas Elementary School; and on both sides of Jackson Street. The condition of these structures for the most part could be improved by painting them and making needed minor repairs. The condition of most of the housing stock in the Borough could be considered good to excellent.

-23- HOUSING VALVE

The market value of owner occup ed housing and the gross monthly rent for renter occupied units gives an indication of the stability and quality of a residential area. TabL 11-5 compares the owner occupied housing unit market values of Dallas Borough and Luzerne County according to the 1970 U. s. Census. Dallas Borough had a higher percentage in the four highest market value categories than Luzerne County. On the other hand, Luzerne County had a higher percentage of the total in the lowest valued categories. Thus, the real estate values in the Borough are, in general, higher than the County averages. This is supported by the Borough's mean market value figure of $19,183 compared to the County figure of $13,357.

Table 11-6, shows that a relationship similar to the above exists between the Borough and the County regarding renter occupied housing units. Comparing the Borough's mean monthly rent of $119 with that of the County, $84, also reflects the fact that the Borough has a higher percentage of units in the three highest rent categories than the County.

HOUSING DEMAND

Projected housing demand figures developed by the Luzerne County Planning Commission are found in Table 11-7. Based on a declining person per household size (as shown) over the period 1970-2020, 1,310 housing units will be needed by the year 2020 to accommodate the projected Borough population of 3,590. This is an increase of 388 units over the estimated 922 units in existence as of April 1, 1977. Examined in another way, this means that the housing unit supply must be increased by about 9 units per year over the next 43 years.

-24-

. TABLE 11-5 OWNER OCCUPIED HOUSING UNITS BY MARKET VALUE-1970

DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY NUMBER PERCENT NUMB E R PERCENT Less Than $7,500 37 6.9 14,734 27.2 $7,500-$9,999 33 6.1 9,524 17.6 $1 0,000-$14,999 189 35.1 13,070 24.1 $1 5,000-$17,499 65 12.1 4,485 8.3 $1 7,500-$24,999 122 22.7 7,599 14.0 $25,000 and Over 92 17.1 4,782 8.8 TOTAL TABULATED 538 100.0 54,194 100.0 MEAN MARKET VALUE $19,183 $1 3,357

SOURCE: 1970 U. S. Census Fourth Count Summary Tape.

TABLE 11-6 RENTER OCCUPIED HOUSING UNITS BY GROSS RENT-1970

DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY MONTHLY RENT NUMBER PERCENT NUMBER PERCENT Less Than $50 0 0.0 3,055 9.0 $50-$79 25 15.5 14,068 41.5 rh $80-$99 43 26.5 9,065 26.7 $1 00-$119 31 19.1 , 4,074 12.0 $1 20-$149 24 14.8 2,331 6.9 $150 and Over -39 24.1 1,325 3.9 TOTAL TABULATED 162 100.0 33 $918 100.0 MEAN RENT PAID $119 $84

SOURCE: 1970 U. S. Census Fourth Count Summary Tape.

-25- TABLE 11-7 HOUSING DEMAND ESTIMATES -1970-2020 DALLAS BOROUGH

411 177 -1970 ESTIMATE 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 Housing Units 786 922 950 1,070 1,170 1,250 1,310 Absolute Change - 136 28 120 I00 80 60 Percent Change - 17.3 3.0 12.6 9.3 6.8 4.8 I N cn I Persons Per Household 3 051 2.935 2.905 2.836 2.786 2.760 2.740 Popul a ti on 2 ,398 2,706 2,760 3,035 3,260 3,450 3,590

SOURCE: Luzerne County Planning Commission, March 1, 1978. As previously shown in the population section, the number of elderly (retired 65 and over) persons has been increasing in the Borough. These elderly persons who are on fixed incomes will not be able to afford conventional housing and therefore present a problem. By 1990, these persons may account for nearly 20 percent of the population compared to about 11 percent in 1960.

LAND USE

Existing land use in Dallas Borough is shown on Plate 11-1. Table 11-8 gives the estimated existing land use acreage in 1979. This data was compiled from the Luzerne County Land Use Plan for the year 2000 which was prepared by the Luzerne County Planning Commission in June 1976, the Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties Transportation Study Area aerial photographs of October 30, 1978 compiled by PennDOT, and from field checks performed by the consultant.

The following is an explanation of the land use categories shown on.. the existing land use map:

RESIDENTIAL: single family and mu1 ti-family are shown separately. COMMERCIAL: includes central business district commercial and highway commercial. INDUSTRIAL: includes manufacturing and non-manufacturing such as transfer and storage. PUBLIC/SEMI-PUBLIC: includes schools, churches, colleges, cerne- teries, parks, municipal county and state facilities.

TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNICATION, AND UTILITIES (TUC) : includes disposal plants, water reservoirs, treatment plants, gas or electric utilities, etc. AGRICULTURE: i ncl udes 1ands in agri cul ture , orchards, commeri cal tree growing, etc.

-27- TABLE 11-8 EXISTING LAND USE DALLAS BOROUGH - 1979

PERCENT OF LAND USE ACRES TOTAL Residential - Single Family 145.3 9.5 Residential - Multi-Family 57.4 3.7 Comercia 1 42.5 2.8 Industrial 17.45 1.1 Transportation, Utilities and Communi cation 65 4.2 Public and Semi-Public 29.4 1.9 Agriculture 92.6 6.0 Wooded 417.5 27.2 Vacant 601.65 23.5 Water 62.2 4.0 TOTAL DEVELOPED ACRES 357.05 23.2 TOTAL AREA OF BOROUGH 1,536 100.0

-28- EXISTING LAND USE

-~ - - .. LUZERNE COUNTY, PEN S' A MJ. ...,: . INDUSTRIAL mdPUBLlClSE'M~CPUBLIC dN TRANSPORTATION COMMUNICATION AND UTILITIES m]AGRICULTURE Source Lurerne Couniv Plannlng Cornm>ss#on WOODED

J VACANT PLATE 11-1 WOODED: areas with non-commercial tree cover. VACANT: land not classified in any of the above uses.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND PHYSICAL FEATURES

SOILS

Using the U.S.D.A. Soil Conservation Service information, an analysis of Dallas Borough's soils were made with particular attention to their suitability for community development. Each of the soil types was evaluated by considering its suitability for on-lot septic tanks and its ability to accommodate low buildings with basements. According to the Soil Conservation Service's interpretation, all of the soils in the Borough have severe limitations for on-lot septic tanks. Plate 11-2 shows the areas of the Borough which are considered to have moderate and severe limitations to low buildings with basements according to the S .C. S . interpreta ti ons .

SLOPES

Topographic conditions in Dallas Borough are shown on Plate 11-3. The slopes were divided into the following four categories:

1. 0-8% Present no development problems. 2. 9-15% Present slight development problems. 3. 16-24% Severe development problems; usually requires extensive site preparation. 4. 25% and Over Development considered not feasible.

-31 - As shown by Plate 11-3, the majority of the Borough's land surface lies in the 0-8% and 9-15% slope categories and thus, this environmental factor presents only slight deterrent to land development within the Borough.

FLOOD HAZARD AREAS

Plate 11-4 shows the areas of the Borough which lie in the flood hazard zone as designated by the Department of Housing and Urban De- velopment Flood Insurance Administration and corresponds to the approximate area of the 100-year flood. The boundaries enclose the area expected to be inundated by a flood at a magnitude which could be equalled or exceeded once on the average during any 100 year period.

ECONOMY

Dallas Borough, as part of the Greater Wilkes-Barre Urban Area, is 1 inked economically to the manufacturing, commercial and service establishments located in the Wyoming Valley. Formerly an area strongly dependent upon mining employment, the Valley and all of Luzerne County has recently experienced high growth rates in other major economic sectors and is well on the way to industrial diversification. The decline of the anthracite industry in Luzerne County was followed by a large number of garment and textile industries locating in the County. As a result of the efforts of industrial development groups, new industries have been attracted to the County and the garment and textile mill products industries now account for a smaller share of the manufacturing labor market.

ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS

A comparison of key economic characteristics for Dallas Borough, Luzerne County, and Pennsylvania from the 1970 U. S. Census appears in Table 11-9. -32- SOIL SUITABILITY

Soil Suitability for septic tanks * ------3nd.-low-buildings with _._I. ___- __- -- basements. DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA LEGEND MODERATE LIMITATIONS Low WITH BASEMENTS 1-1 1-1 SEVERE LIMITATIONS THE CHESTER ENQINEERS I I .,I .,.,,, .> . ,.I . . . ,I ::.I,/ /I ...... Rc\TB CUT AND FILL-NOT CLASSIFIED Souice Luzerne Counly Plannmg Conrmlsslon

*All soils have severe limitations for use of on-lot septic tanks PLATE 11-2 and are not shown on map.

Source: Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service, Soil Survey, Luzerne County. SLOPES

DALLAS BOROUGH SLOPE CATEGORIES LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA rl0-8% 9 - 15% 16 - 24% 25% AND OVER

Source Luzcrna Counlv Planning Carnmmlon

Source: U.S.G.S. Kingston Quadrangle PLATE 11-3 .. . DRAINAGE DIVIDES DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

FLOOD HAZARD ZONE

Source: Department of Housing and Source Luzerne Counly Planning Commission Urban Development-Federal insurance Administration.

PLATE 11-4 TABLE 11-9 ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS, 1970 DALLAS BOROUGH, LUZERNE COUNTY, AND PENNSYLVANIA

DALLAS LUZERNE BOROUGH COUNTY P E NNS Y L VAN I A % Unemployed 4.4 4.0 3.7 % Adult Females in Labor Force 28.1 38.8 39.4 Non-Worker - Worker Ratio 1.69 1.41 1.47 % Employed in Manufacturing 30.0 40.8 34.1 Median Family Income $1 0 ,01 0 $8 ,244 $9,558 % Families Below Poverty Level 5.7 a. 9 7.9 % Families with Income of $1 5,00O/year or More 18.9 10.9 18.3

The above statistics show that in most categories, Dallas Borough's economy could be considered on a par with or better than the County's and the State's. The Borough's non-worker to worker ratio (equal to the number of people not in the labor force divided by those who are) is 1.69, which is somewhat higher than the County and State figures. This '. higher ratio is probably due to the relatively low percentage of females in the labor force. This situation is worsened by the fact that nearly 60 percent of the Borough's population is female. These factors indicate there may be a lack of employment opportunities for females in the area or that family incomes are sufficiently high enough to discourage the female members of households from seeking work.

The unemployment rate for the Borough in 1970 was slightly higher than the County and the State. The percentage of Dallas Borough residents employed in manufacturing was 10 percent less than the County figure and 4 percent less than the State.

-39- The median family income for Dallas Borough in 1970 was significantly higher than the County's and the State figure. The fact that Dallas Borough is an area of relatively high incomes is also supported by the fact that the percentage of families below poverty level was less than the County and the State and also by the fact that the Borough had nearly 19 percent of its family incomes in the $15,000 or more per year range.

LABOR FORCE CHARACTERISTICS

Table 11-10 compares the labor force characteristics for Dallas Borough, Luzerne County, the State and the Nation according to the 1970 U. S. Census. The Census considers anyone who is 14 years old or older as a potential member of the labor force. The category, Civilian Labor Force, appearing in Table 11-10, does not include persons in the armed services, in school, institutional inmates or other persons, but only those who are employed and those who are unemployed, but actively seeking work.

The total number of persons 14 years old and over in Dallas Borough in 1970 was 2,281. Of this total, 1,093 (or 47.9%), were part of the labor force. This figure is significantly less than the national, State, and County figures of 59.0 percent, 56.2 percent, and 53.0 percent, respectively. Some 567 school students or nearly 25 percent of total persons 14 years old and over, are not included as participants in the labor force as are some 621 "other" persons or 27.2 percent. The percentage of males in the Dallas Borough labor force is significantly higher than the percentage in the County labor force, while the percentage of females, 29.5 percent, is significantly lower than the national, State and County figures of 43.3 percent, 39.4 percent, and 40.1 percent, respectively.

-40- TMLE I1-10 LABOR FORCE CHARACTERISTICS AND LABOR PARTICIPATION RATES - 1970

DALLAS LUZERNE PENNSYLVANIA UNITED STATES BO ROUGH COUNTY IN 1,000's IN MILLIONS Total (14 and over) 2,281 267,794 8,848 140.2 Ci vi 1i an Labor Force 1,093 141,819 4,757 82.7 % Of Tafal 47.9 53.0 53.8 59 .O Employed 1,045 136,180 4,577 78.7 Unemployed 48 5,639 179 4.1 % Unemployed 4.4 4.0 3.8 5 .O I 2 Total Males (14 and over) 850 123,059 4,163 67.4 I Civi 1 i an Labor Force 671 83,779 2,989 51.2 % of Total 78.9 68.1 71.8 76 .O 643 80,038 2,834 49.0 UnempEmpl Ofed oyed 28 3,741 105 2.2 % Unemployed 4.2 4.5 3.5 4.4 Total Females (14 and over) 1,431 144,735 4,685 72.8 Ci vi 1 i an Labor Force 422 58,040 1,768 31.5 % of Total 29.5 40.1 37.7 43.3 Employed 402 56,142 1,693 29.7 2Q 1,898 74 1.9 Unempl% UnempOfed oyed 4.7 3.3 4.2 5.9

SOURCE: 1970 U. S. Census - Fourth Count Sumnary Tape and the 1970 Census Report General, Social, -and Economic Characteristics. EMPLOYMENT BY MAJOR INDUSTRY CLASSIFICATION

Resident employment figures by major industry classification from the 1970 U. S. Census for Dallas Borough and Luzerne County are presented in Table 11-11. These statistics reflect the number of employed persons by place of residence rather than by place of employment.

Nearly 30 percent of the total number of jobs of persons residing in Dallas Borough are in manufacturing. This is a lower percentage than Luzerne County with 40.5 percent employment in manufacturing. The services category is the second largest employer of Borough residents accounting for 29.2 percent of the total resident jobs. The wholesale and retail trade category ranks third in importance accounting for about 20 percent of the total. The above three categories together account for 78.7 percent of the total 1,045 resident jobs in Dallas Borough. The remaining 21.3 percent are in public administration (7.2%) , construction (5.4%), transportation, communication and utilities (4.4%), finance, insurance, and real estate (3.5%), and agriculture and forestry (.8%).

At the County level, manufacturing services and wholesale and retail trade also ranked first, second, and third, respectively. Con- struction, 5.7 percent of the total employment, ranked fourth and public administration with 4.5 percent ranked fifth.

The total 1,045 resident jobs in Dallas Borough in 1970 was an increase of 293 jobs over the 1960 figure of 752. During this ten-year period, the largest increase, 167, occurred in the services category, while manufacturing jobs increased by 88, public administration by 47, wholesale and retail trade by 36, finance, insurance and real estate by 6, and agriculture and forestry by 4. This gain of 354 jobs was partially counterbalanced by the loss of 33 construction jobs, 23 jobs in transportation, communication and utilities and a loss of 8 jobs in mining. In 1960, 57 jobs were not reported by category.

-42- TABLE 11-11 EMPLOYMENT BY MAJOR INDUSTRY CLASSIFICATION - 1970

DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY INDUSTRY CLASSIFICATION NUMBER EMPLOYED % OF TOTAL NUMBER EMPLOYED % OF TOTAL Total Employment 1,045 100.0 136,180 100.0 Agri cul ture and Forestry 8 .8 1,189 .9 Mini ng 0 0 .o 1,914 1.4 Construction 56 5.4 7,823 5.7 I wJ=- Manufacturing 31 3 29.9 55,150 40.5 I Transportation, Communi cation and Uti1 ities 46 4.4 7,333 5.4 Wholesale and Retail Trade 205 19.6 25,538 18.7 Finance, Insurance and Real Estate 37 3.5 4,567 3.4 Se rvices 305 29.2 26,563 19.5 Public Administration 75 7.2 6,103 4.5

SOURCE: 1970 U. S. Census - Fourth Count Summary Tape. A high percentage (72.8%) of the total number of Dallas Borough residents employed in manufacturing are engaged in the production of non-durable goods. This is also true for Luzerne County which has 67.4 percent of its total manufacturing employment engaged in the production of non-durable goods. These jobs are connected with the production of apparel and related products, food and kindred products, textile mill products, leather and leather products, printing, publishing, and allied products.

MANUFACTURING EMPWYMENT BY MAJOR INDUSTRY CLASSIFICATION

Table 11-12 gives a summary of the manufacturing employment in Dallas Borough in 1975 according to Pennsylvania Department of Commerce statistics. In that year, six (6) manufacturing establishments accounting for 256 jobs were located in Dallas Borough. One establishment engaged in book printing is located east of Pennsylvania Route 309 in Dallas Township just outside the Borough and accounts for 246 additional jobs.

In Luzerne County in 1975, there was a total of 644 manufacturing establishments employing a total of 40,866 persons. Twenty Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) groups were represented with 7 groups having employment exceeding 2,000. Three of the seven were manufacturers of durable goods and four were non-durable goods manufacturers as shown in Table 11-13.

INCOME

A comparison of incomes for families and unrelated individuals for Dallas Borough and Luzerne County according to the 1970 U. S. Census is found n Table 11-14. Based on the statistics presented, Dallas Borough's incomes are significantly higher than the County averages in 1970. Dallas Borough shows 50 percent of its family incomes in the

-44- 1 il d f TABLE 11-12 I N-P LACE MANUFACTUR IN6 EMPLOYMENT BY FOUR DIGIT INDUSTRIAL CLASS IFI CATION a DALLAS BOROUGHJ LUZERNE COUNTY J 1975

NUMBER OF 1 CODE DESCRIPTION ESTABLISHMENTS EMPLOYMENT 2258 Warp Knit Fabric Mil S 1 164 n 271 1 Newspapers: Publish ng, and/or 2 38 Printing d 2732* Book Pri nti ng 1 246 2751 Comerci a1 Printi ng , Letter 1 43 Press and Screen 1 ill 3599 Machinery, except El lctric n.c,e. -2 11 TOTALS 7 502

* This establishment is located just outside of the Dallas Borough in Da 11 as Towns hip . 1 n.c.e. - not classified elsewhere. SOURCE: Pennsylvania Industrial Census Series M-5-75, Pennsylvania Department of Commerce.

-45- TABLE 11-13 MAJOR DURABLE AND NON-DURABLE MANUFACTURERS IN LUZERNE COUNTY BY TWO DIGIT SIC - 1975

CODE INDUSTRY EMPLOYMENT PERCENT County Total 40,866 100.0 DURABLE 34 Fabricated Metal Products 3,021 7.4 36 Electrical and Electronic Machinery, Equipment and Supplies 2,917 7.1 35 Machinery, Except Electrical 2,230 5.4

NON- DURABLE 23 Apparel and Related Products 12,428 30.4 20 Food and Kindred Products 3,187 7.8 22 Textile Mil 1 Products 2,754 6.7 31 Leather and Leather Products 2,182 5.3

SOURCE : Penns 1 vani a Industri a1 Census Seri es M-5-75 , Pennsyl vani a &f Commerce.

-46- TABLE I1-14 INCOME FOR FAMI LIES AND UNRELATED INDIVIDUALS 1970

DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY NUMBER PERCENT NUMBER PERCENT Less than $2,000 16 2.5 4,462 4.9 $2,000 - 2,999 18 2.8 3,911 4.3 $3,000 - 3,999 14 2.2 5,554 6.1 $4,000 - 4,999 29 4.4 5 ,500 6.1 $5,000 - 5,999 49 7.5 7,410 8.2 $6,000 - 6,999 30 4.6 7,892 8.7 $7,000 - 7,999 72 11.1 8,658 9.6 $8,000 - 9,999 97 14.9 15,587 17.2 $10,000 - 11,999 96 14.7 12,132 13.4 $12,000 - 14,999 107 16.4 9,663 10.7 $15,000 - 24,9.99 101 15.5 7,808 8.6 $25,000 - 49,999 15 2.3 1,595 1.7 .. $50,000 and Over 7 1.1 4 70 .5 TOTAL -- ALL FAMILIES 651 100 .o 90,642 100.0 MEDIAN. INCOME $10,010 $ 8,244 MEAN INCOME 11,538 9,233 ALL UNRELATED INDIVIDUALS 6 36 26,728 MEDIAN INCOME 707 1,915 MEAN INCOME 1,017 2 ,908 ALL FAMILIES AND UNRELATED INDIVIDUALS 1,287 117,370 MEDIAN INCOME 4,230 6,928 MEAN INCOME 6,339 7,793

SOURCE: 1970 U. S. Census - General, Social , -and Economic Characteristics, .- .- C40.

-47- ranges $10,000 or greater, while the County shows 34.9 percent. The Borough shows only 7.5 percent of its family incomes in the less than $4,000 ranges, while the County has 15.3 percent. A comparison of the family median and mean incomes also reflects Borough family income levels higher than the overall County averages.

The median and mean incomes for unrelated individuals substantially reduces the mean and median incomes when combined with the family figures. The effect appears to be more severe for the Borough than the County due to the very low median and mean incomes of unrelated individuals in the Borough of $707 and $1,017, respectively. This may be due to the low incomes of college students residing in the Borough. ;

TRANSPORTATION AND THOROUGHFARES

Transportation to and from Dallas Borough plays an important role in the functioning of the area. Both automobiles and mass transportation (buses) provide circulation between places of work, residence, recreation, and shopping. Both of these means of transportation link the Borough to the much larger circulation system in Wilkes-Barre and the Wyoming Valley and also to the smaller nearby local communities. Thus, the maintenance of this system is essential to the functioning of the Borough.

Street Classification and Emensions

The streets in Dallas Borough may be classified into three categories shown in the following table which summarizes the characteristics and standards of each classification. :

-48- TABLE 11-15 STREET CHARACTERISTICS AND STANDARDS Ioci

D I PI ENS I ON STANDARDS DAILY STREET (IN FEET) TRAFFIC CLASSIFICATION CHARACTERISTICS RIGHT-OF-WAY PAVING VOLUMES

Local Internal community 40-44 20- 24 <2,000 streets; serve adjacent residential properties

Col 1ector Recei ve traf f i c from 52- 60 22-24 2,000-8,000 local streets and funnel it onto major or arterial streets

Arteri a1 Major carriers of traffic 60 min. 24 min. 600 per hour into and out of the per 1ane community and to other areas within the community Parking Lane* Self explanatory - 8-10' -

* Paving widths of travel lanes should be widened by one (1) foot when parking 1 anes are provi ded.

NOTE : All of the above paving widths are for uncurbed streets. When streets are curbed an additional foot of paving width is recommended. SOURCE: Guidelines of Local Roads and Streets - Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Pub ication #70.

-49- Due to the degree of development that has occurred throughout the Borough, the above standards for recommended pavement widths are difficult to apply uniformly. In future developments, however, it is recommended that the above right-of-way and pavement widths be used as standards.

In Dallas Borough, streets that are classified as arterials include Memori a1 Hi ghway (Pennsylvania Routes 41 5 and 11 8) and Pennsyl vani a Route 309. Much of the traffic on these routes has its origin and destination outside of the Borough. Memorial Highway links the Borough to Harvey's Lake to the northwest, while Route 309 connects the Borough to Kingston and Wil kes-Barre to the south and to the Borough of Tunk- hammock in Wyoming County to the north.

The following streets located within the Borough have been classified as collectors: Church Street, Lake Street, Machell Avenue, Hunts- L ville Road, Main Street, and Center Hill Road. The first four of the above listed streets meet Memorial Highway in the vicinity of Dallas L Center. This convergence upon Memorial Highway at the same point creates significant amounts of traffic congestion in Dallas Center. B The remaining streets located wthin the Borough are classified as local streets. They serve a variety of functions, the most important of P which is vehicular and pedestrian access to property abutting the pub ic right-of-way. (See Table 11-15 for street classification). 3

TRAFFIC VOLUMES

Traffic volumes for state maintained roads in Dallas Borough obtained from PennDOT, are shown in Figure 11-3. The data shows that Memorial Highway on the average had 13,700 trips per day between the intersection with traffic route (T. R.) 309 and the Borough boundary to the northwest. The second most heavily traveled state maintained road s -50- 31 '1 TRAFFIC VOLUMES DALLAS BOROUGH, LUZERNE COUNTY

\ \ \ \ \' v'

0' 1000' 2,000' I SCALE IN FEET

SOURCE: COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, DEPARTM ENT OF TRANSPORTATION is T. R. 309 with 7,020 average daily trips (ADT) wi hin the Borough Boundaries. Lake Street with 6,380 ADT was the most heavily traveled collector followed by Church Street with 5,980 ADT. Main Street, from Memorial Highway to Pioneer Avenue, had an ADT of 3,850, while the segment from Pioneer Avenue to T. R. 309 had an ADT of 160. These volumes are presently less than the rated capacities as shown in Figure 11-4.

PROJECTED TRAFFIC VOLUMES

Projected traffic volumes for the major state maintained highways in the Borough were obtained from the PennDOT Bureau of Advanced Plan- ning for the year 1990. Figure 11-4 shows these projected volumes together with the 1990 daily capacity. Please note that the road segments for which volumes and capacities have been projected do not correspond exactly with the 1977 ADT segments shown in Figure 11-3.

As might be expected, the 1990 projected ADT's are higher than the 1977 figures. Traffic along the southern portion of PA 309 is expected to increase by nearly four (4) times the 1977 figure and will exceed its design capacity by 4,000 ADT. PA 309 north of the intersection with PA 41 5 and 118 is expected to have a traffic volume of 11,000 ADT or an increase of about 4,000 over the 1977 figure. This increase will be 5,000 ADT less than the roads design capacity. Memorial Highway is expected to experience a 1990 traffic volume of 19,000 ADT, a 6,000 ADT increase over the 1977 figure. Daily volumes of this magnitude by 1990 mean that this road will be exceeding its design capacity of 16,000 ADT by 3,000 ADT. Although Main Street is projected to experience an increase of about 1,500 ADT over its 1977 figure of 3,850 ADT by 1990, it will not be close to exceeding its design capacity of 12,000 ADT. The projected volumes are based on the level of service "C." This level of service rating refers to the relative amount of road congestion with

"A" being least congested and 'IF" being the most congested. Thus, a

-52- TRAFFIC VOLUME ESTIMATES DALLAS BOROUGH, LUZERNE COUNTY

.\ \ / \ / / \ / \/v

N ./ 0' 1000 I 2000' 5,300 - 1990 ADT 8 (12,000) - 1990 DAILY CAPACITY SCALE IN FEET ND - NO DATA

SOURCE: COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION BUREAU OF ADVANCED PLANNING FIGURE 11-4 level of service "C" rating indicates a condition of average to below average congestion for the routes in Dallas Borough, shown on Figure 11-4 for the year 1990.

Based on PennDOT counts performed in October of 1974, 8:OO to 9:00 AM was the peak morning traffic hour in the Dallas Borough Central Business District for all but Church Street which peaked from 9:00 to 1O:OO AM (see Figure 11-5). The peak afternoon traffic hour was from 4:OO to 5:OO PM for all the streets except Lake Street and PA 415 and 118 east of Main Street which peaked from 5:OO to 6:OO PM. The hour of least traffic is from 3:OO to 4:OO PM for all of the streets shown in Figure 11-5.

In general, the morning peak hour traffic volumes dropped until about 10:30 or 1l:OO AM at which time they rose again and peaked at 12:OO PM and 1:00 PM. Volumes again dropped until about 2:OO PM and 3:OO PM when they started to increase and peaked during the afternoon rush hour. Traffic due to persons commuting to and from work dropped off at about 10:30 to 11:OO AM. Volumes begin to rise again after 11:OO AM due to persons who are shopping and conducting their business in the Central Business District. The drop in traffic volumes around 2:OO to 3:OO PM is due to the fact that morning and noon time shoppers have gone home and lunch time traffic which contributed to the early afternoon peak is back at work. After this lull, traffic volumes increase and peak for the day as afternoon shoppers and workers travel to their residences. Volumes then decline until the morning low point from 3:OO to 4:OO PM.

-54- TRAFFIC VOLUMES PER HOUR IN THE DALLAS BOROUGH CBD - OCTOBER, 1974

500 - -- 4

I I

400 -

\* I / \ \ I I \ I ! I 300 - r f \ I I \ \

200 - \ \ I .* .* Y c 0 I -c - '* 100 - ,, \

\' -- a

-A.M. P.M.A

LEGEND

-*- T.R. 415 & 118 EAST OF MAIN STREET -CHURCH STREET NORTH OF T.R. 415 & 118 --- T.R. 415 & 118 WEST OF MAIN STREET ------LAKE STREET NORTH OF T.R. 415 & 118 --- MAIN STREET SOUTH OF T.R. 415 & 118

FIGURE 11-5 SOURCE: PENNDOT, BUREAU OF TRANSPORTATION TURNING MOVEMENTS

Turning movements recorded Over an 11 hour period during 1969 by PennDOT for the intersection of Memorial Highway and Main Street are shown on Figure 11-6. The diagram shows a five (5) legged intersection with a total of 20 turning movements. Data for 18 movements was available and is shown in the diagram.

The diagram helps to point out the large number of traffic conflict points that exists at the intersection, while also showing the total number of vehicular movements for each path during the 11 hour period of traffic flow. The south leg of Memorial Highway experienced the largest number of vehicular movements with 6,858, while the north leg experienced 6,232 movements. Church Street ranked third with 2,701 movements which is less than one-half the volume on the south leg of Memorial Highway. Main Street with 2,471 movements and Lake Street with 1,790 movements were the least traveled routes.

An analysis of the traffice entering and leaving each leg of the intersection revealed the following:

(I Memorial Highway - A large percentage of the traffic passing through the intersection is through-traffic. Of the total 3,595 vehicles which are south bound in the south leg, 2,756 or about 77 percent came from the north leg. On the other hand, of the 2,700 north bound in the north leg, 2,408 or 89 percent came from the south leg.

0 Main Street - A majority of the north bound traffic is local in nature with 371 vehicles crossing to Lake Street and 407 vehicles crossing to Church Street.

-56- DIRECTIONAL TRAFFIC FLOW DIAGRAM INTERSECTION OF MEMORIAL HIGHWAY AND MAIN STREET DALLAS BOROUGH, LUZERNE COUNTY

c c

& i c W W a c v) I 0 a x I 0

TO WILKES-BARRE - MEMORIAL HIGHWAY T..R. 415 & 118

t W w a t cn L z- 4 5

DATE: August 1, 1969 (Friday) 7:OOam to 6:OOpm WEATHER: Clear Numbers are the total vehicles in each movement. Source: Commenwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Transportation. FIGURE 11-6 0 Church Street - A little more than half of the south bound traffic crosses the intersection to Main Street, while the remaining portion turns onto Memorial Highway. The majori ty of the traffic turning onto Memorial Highway is east bound.

Lake Street - About two-thirds of the south bound traffic turns onto Main Street and Church Street and is considered local in nature, while the remaining one-third turns onto Memorial Highway and is south bound.

Memorial Highway is the most important street in the Dallas Borough Central Business District. It carries a significant amount of traffic through the Central Business District and also carries traffic to and from the Central Business District. The increased volumes projected for the future for all the roads in the Central Business District can have both a positive and negative effect. More traffic means potentially more business for establishments located in the Business District, however, it also means that it may become more difficult for business patrons to circulate by car and foot in the Business District area and also increases the traffic hazards at the access and egress points to retail trade establishments and parking areas.

TRAiVSIT SERVICE

The Luzerne County Transportation Authority provides bus services to Dallas Borough, Harveys Lake and Misericordia College. The route extends along Pioneer Avenue and Pennsylvania Route 309 southward to the Public Square in Wilkes-Barre. Service to the Wyoming Valley extends from Old Forge in the east to Glen Lyon in the west.

A1 though not an officially designated Luzerne County Transportation Authority Park and Ride location, the parking lot to the rear of Fino's and the United Penn Bank is used by transit riders who commute to

-58- Wilkes-Barre and other points south. This creates a problem for customers who patronize the business establishments, as it limits the available parking for shoppers. Attempts by the Luzerne County Trans- portation Authority to establish Park and Ride locations in the Borough have been unsuccessful in the past.

If a Park and Ride lot could be established, it would relieve the pressure from the presently used lot and make more parking available for persons wishing to utilize the Dallas Center establishments.

COMMUNITY FAC I L IT 1ES

This section examines those facilities which are owned by the public and are operated for the benefit of the community or the public. Facilities owned and operated by private enterprise or quasi-public authorities for the benefit of the community, i.e., sewer, water, will also be examined. The information presented in this section addresses the needs, priorities, and standards for a wide range of facilities in the community. In some cases, as is true in the case of planning for '* educational and library facilities, this information may be of a contributory nature and not of primary importance in the overall planning for the community.

RECREATION FACILITIES

Due to recent increases in the amount of leisure time and dis- posable income, the cost of fuel, the demand for recreational facilities close to home has been continually expanding. In order to determine the relative adequacy or inadequacy of the Borough's recreation facilities and programs, an inventory of the existing facilities compared to the appropriate recreation standards is presented here.

-59- Dallas Borough's recreation facilities are inventoried in Table II- 16 while Table 11-17 presents an inventory of recreation programs. The National Recreation Association uses the ratio of seven and one half (7-1/2) acres per one thousand (1,000) persons as a general standard for determining the recreational needs within a community. In order for Dallas Borough, with an estimated population of 3,000, to be within this standard, the Borough needs a total of 22.5 acres of recreational land. According to the Association, this total recreational development should be accounted for by the following four types of facilities:

1. Playlots or Totlots - service radius of 1,500 feet; 1/2 acre of playlots per 1,000 persons.

2. Neighborhood Playground - an area comprised of 1-1/2 acres per 1,000 population, service radius of 1/2 mile; should consist of play area with apparatus for children from 5-12.

3. Neighborhood Park - two (2) acres per 1,000 persons, service radius of 1/2 mile; consists of picnicking, walking area; passive and supervised recreation.

4. Community Park - an area comprised of 3-1/2 acres per 1,000 persons of population with a service radius of 2 miles. A diversified park providing a wide variety of activities for all age groups both indoor and outdoor all year round; 1 facility for up to 15,000 persons.

Because the Borough's present population is about 3,000, it does not appear to be necessary to apply the standards for a community park. Also, the low density pattern of development, characteristic of the Borough, allows a considerable amount of open space in association with the residential land use pattern for play areas and passive recreation

-60- TABLE 11-16 DALLAS BOROUGH ‘INVENTORY OF RECREATION FACILITIES

NAME OF FACILITY OWNERSHIP SIZE AND LOCATION STATUS FAC I L IT1 ES CONDITION ACCESS ACRES COMMENTS Dallas Borough Publ i c She1ter Good Good 2.75 Voll eyball /badminton, Municipal Park Basketball Court shuffleboard courts Burndale and Luzerne P1 ay f i el d (2), playground Avenue Tennis Courts (2) apparatus Ping Pong Tables Bi centenni a1 Park Publ i c Benches (5) Good Good .67 Bike Rack Climbing Apparatus Dallas Elem. School Publ i c C1 ub Good Good 1.98 Huntsville Road Stage/Audi tori um I !3 Basketball Court I Gym Playground Gate of Heaven Quasi-Pub1ic C1 ub Good Good 3.67 Elementary School Bas ketball Courts (2) Machell Avenue P 1ay f i e 1d P1 ayground Not lighted Crown Imperial Bowling Private C1 ub Good Good 6.00 Route 415 BowJ ing A1 1eys Pool Tables Games Highland Acres Private Riding Stables Good Fair 4.29 Eq ues t r i an Center Machell Avenue

SOURCE: Appendix to the Recreation, Park and Open Space, Historic Preservation, and Tourism Report of Luzerne County, Luzerne County Planning Commission, 1974. TABLE 11-17 DALLAS BOROUGH INVENTORY OF RECREATION PROGRAMS

AGE LOCATION PROGRAM GROUPS PROGRAM AND SPONSORSHIP SEASON TIME OF DAY DURATION SERVED ACTIVITIES Little League Dallas Borough Sunnier Afternoon & 2 Months 9-12 Baseball Lit tl e League Evening Organization Commerci a1 Sp.

Teeners Program Dallas Borough Summer Eveni ng 2 Months 13-16 Baseball Teen B. Inc. Commerci a1 Sp.

Boy Scouts Dallas Borough Year Afternoon & Year 8-20 Physical Activities,

I B.S. of America Round Evening Round Arts & Crafts, Ed. Act., cn Trips & Camping, Civic Iu I & Social Services

Summer Program Dallas Borough Summer Morning & 3 Months 6-19 Arts & Crafts, Ping Pong, Municipal Park Fa11 Afternoon Shuff1 e Board, Marbles , Burndale & Luzerne Ave. Etc. Borough Sponsored Adaptive Phys. Elementary Schools Summer Afternoon & 6 Weeks 6-12 Phys . Ed. Instructor Ed. Dallas Area School Evening District

Girl Scouts Dallas Borough Year Afternoon & Year 7-1 7 Same as Boy Scouts G.S. of America Round Evening Round

Junior Football Dallas Borough Summer Afternoon & 3 Months 8-13 Football Commerci a1 Sp. Fa1 1 Evening

SOURCE: Appendix to the Recreation, Park and Open Space, Historic Preservation, and Tourism Report of Luzerne County, Luzerne County Planning Comission, 1974. and therefore, the rigid application of standards is undesirable. This factor also precludes the use of totlots or playlots throughout the Borough.

Based on the above standards, the Borough presently requires 4.5 acres of neighborhood playground facilities. According to the inventory in Table 11-16, the Borough Municipal Park fulfills more than half of this requirement. Because of its location in the north central portion of the Borough, the southern portion of the comunity is outside of its 1/2 mile service. The recreational facilities located at the Dallas Elementary School and Gate of Heaven Elementary School do provide for the community to the south. However, the level of recreational facilities available at either of these facilities is not equivalent to the Municipal Park. Baseball and softball fields are found just outside the Borough in Dallas Township at two locations; that is, at the elementary school and junior and senior high school.

EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES

Dallas Borough is a member of the Dallas School District which includes Dallas, Franklin, and Kingston Townships. The school district totals about 52.8 square miles and is comprised of seven school facilities (five elementary, one junior, and one senior high school).

Located within the Borough is the Dallas Elementary School which serves grades K-4. The structure contains seven classrooms with a total capacity of 240 students. Enrollment during the 1979-1980 school year is 186 students. The Dallas Elementary School is a neighborhood school and fulfills the needs of the Borough's residents. About 70 percent of the students are able to walk to school. Because there are no sidewalks within the Borough, the remaining 30 percent, the younger age groups,

-63- are transported by buses. Bus transportation for grades 5-12 is provided for the Borough's students who attend the intermediate, junior and senior high school facilities located outside the Borough in Dallas Township.

Table 11-18 summarizes school enrollment trends over the period 1976-1980 and also shows the capacity of each of the District's facilities. According to the trends, enrollment has been declining recently. This decline is believed to be due to the declining birth rate which is presently both a local and nationwide trend.

Improved transportation linkage to Wilkes-Barre via the completion of the Cross Valley Expressway (Trucksville-Pringle Section) could result in substantial residential growth in the Borough. Luzerne County Planning Commission projections estimate 220 new households in the Borough by 2000. Presently, the Dallas Borough Elementary School has room for 54 additional students, while the School District as a whole has room for 1,013 additional students.

According to the 1970 census data, nearly 8 percent of the Borough's population was in the 5-9 year old age group. Assuming this trend continues, the following numbers of students in grade K-4 for 1980, 1990 and the year 2000 have been determined from the population projections.

PROJECTED STUDENT PROJECTION -YEAR POPULATION K- 4 1980 2 ,760 221 1990 3,035 243 2000 3 ,260 261 201 0 3,450 276 2020 3,590 287

-64- TABLE 11-18 DALLAS SCHOOL DISTRICT ENROLLMENT TRENDS 1976 - 1980

SCHOOL YEAR SCHOOL 1976-1977 1977-1 978 1978-1 979 1979-1 980* CAPACITY Elementary Dall as Borough Elementary (K-4) 223 142 184 186 240 Dallas Township Elementary (K-4) 467 480 51 7 483 580

I Dall as Intermediate (5&6) 556 488 480 548 600 cn UI I Trucksvi 11e (K-4) 21 2 21 7 21 0 168 240 Westmorel and (K-4) 404 396 332 339 700

Junior High 960 - 850 780 1,000

Senior High 780 - 766 742 899 TOTAL ENROLLMENT 3,602 - 3,339 3,246 4,259

* Includes three (3) learning disability classes (37 students) and one handicapped class (9 students). SOURCE: Dallas School District. According to this method, it appears that the Dallas Elementary School capacity of 240 students will be adequate until at least 1990. The Gate of Heaven Roman Catholic School located within the Borough will probably accommodate a portion of the projected student population for grades 1-4. Presently, (1979-1980 school year), there are 330 students in grades 1-8 enrolled in this facility which has 16 classrooms and an estimated capacity of 400 students. Thus, the Dallas Elementary School facility should have adequate capacity until at least the year 2000.

LIBRARY FACILITIES

The Back Mountain Memorial Library located on Main Street in Dallas Borough serves the following nine municipalities in the Back Mountain Area: Harvey's Lake and Dallas Boroughs and the Townships of Dallas, Franklin, Jackson, Kingston, Lake, Lehman and Ross. Presently, the library contains 40,000 plus volumes which are housed in two structures which are 90-100 years old. It is estimated that the library serves approximately 30,200 persons. The 1 ibrary is supported by donations and the money raised by periodic auctions sponsored by the 1 i brary.

Considering the projected service area population of 40,700 persons and the present volume per capita ratio of 1.32, the library should contain 53,724 volumes in the year 2000*. These volumes would require about 6,700 lineal feet of shelving and an estimated 5,400 square feet of total floor space for storage. Total library floor space required would be about 13,000 sq ft. This includes reader space, staff work space and miscellaneous space (heating, cooling, stairways, rest rooms,

* Public Library Association, Interim Standards for Small Publ ic Libraries: Guidelines Toward Achieving the Goals of Publ ic Library Services, Chicago: The Association, 1962.

-66- L etc.). The existing facility has a floor space area of 3,276 square feet or about 1/4 of the required area according to the guidelines. The existing facility has no room for expansion.

In considering a future location for a new facility, accessibility to the service population is of major importance. A location in the Borough's business district or close to this district would be ideal.

SEWER FACILITIES

As shown on Plate 11-5, the most densely populated portions of Dallas Borough, located in the Toby Creek Watershed, are sewered by the Dallas Area Municipal Authority System. Existing development appears to be serviced adequately by the existing system. Areas where the potential for residential development in the near future exists, such as the High1 and Boulevard Area, have a1 so been provided service.

Of major concern in the future is the effect that continued use of on-lot sewage disposal systems, increased number of dwellings and the .. soil characteristics in the western portion of the Borough will have on the Rul i son Evans Reservoir ' s (formerly Huntsvi 1 le Reservoir) water quality. This reservoir is a potable water supply for the city of Wilkes-Barre and the western portion of the Borough is part of its drainage basin. An examination of the existing land use map shows that the area presently serviced by sewers has not been fully developed and, therefore, it is logical that this area of the Borough will develop before the Rulison Evans Reservoir drainage basin area. A new development in the vicinity of Luzerne and Burndale Avenues is presently under construction and will contain approximately 20 single family residences. The Highland Avenue area presently contains about 25 homes and could accommodate about 2-3 times this number in the future.

- 67- The improved accessibility of the Borough to the more densely populated areas in the Wyoming Valley as a result of the completion of the Cross Valley Expressway, Trucksvi lle-Pringle Section and anticipated connection with the other sections of the Expressway is expected to increase the demand for residential acreage. Completion of the Pringle Section is scheduled for 1983. The date of the connection of this section to the remaining portion of the Expressway is presently not known.

WATER FACILITIES

The Dallas Water Company owned by the Eastern Gas and Water In- vestment Company, is the largest system in the Back Mountain Area. In 1970, it was estimated that the system served 4,310 people in the Borough and in limited areas of Dallas Township surrounding the Borough.

Water for the system is obtained from nine wells and is chlori- nated. Eight storage tanks with a total capacity of 0.75 million gallons .. (mg) serve partly as distribution storage. The system contains mains ranging from 10 inches to 1 inch in diameter. The location of the major water distribution mains in Dallas Borough are shown on Plate 11-6.

In 1970, it was estimated that the average daily water requirement for the system was 0.43 million gallons per day (mgd) and the maximum daily demand was 0.75 mgd. The estimated safe yield of the wells was over 1.0 mgd, which was adequate at that time*. Based on 100 gallons per capita per day consumption and the previous maximum daily demand of 0.75 mgd, the system has adequate capacity to serve an additional 1,430

* Master Plan for Water Supply and Waste Water Management in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania; Volume I1 Water Planning. January 31, 1973, Gilbert Associates, Inc., Reading, Pennsylvania.

-68- SEWER LINE AND SERVICE AREA

DiLLA S

Ir I

......

LEGEND

------MAW-SEWERS- DALLAS BOROUGH -1 -1 EXISTING SERVICE AREA LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA SERVICE AREA - 1985 ElSERVICE AREA - 1995 wj SERVICE AREA - 2000

Source: Dallas Area Municipal Authority Sowce. Luzerne County Planning Commission

PLATE 11-5 I-7 1

WATER LINES AND SERVICE AREA rDiLL A S

I I

LEGEND

...... - -- _I- - -- __ -----'-WATER-LINES--- DALLAS BmOUGH LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA r]EXISTING SERVICE my FUTURE SERVICE - 1985 EiFUTURE SERVICE - 1995 1-4 1-4 FUTURE SERVICE - 2000

Source: Dallas Area Municipal Authority

PLATE 11-6 equivalent population. Continued growth in both Dallas Borough and Dallas Township could deplete the system's excess capacity before 1985 or 1990 and thus, necessitate increasing the amount of safe yield supply

FIRE AND AMBULANCE PROTECTION

The Dallas Fire and Ambulance Inc. is located at the Borough Building, Main Street, Dallas. The organization is a private corporation supported by volunteers and donations. Total membership is approximately 70 with all functions performed by trained volunteers.

The Borough has three fire trucks. They are:

1. 1953 American LaFrance 750 gpm pumper with a 500 gallon tank capacity. 2. 1968 American LaFrance 750 gpm pumper with a 1,000 gal lon tank capacity. 3. 1977 American LaFrance 1,000 gpm pumper with a 750 gallon tank capacity.

In addition to the above, the company operates a 1979 Yankee Van Type Ambulance. The company serves all of Dallas Borough and 85 percent of Dallas Township. Response time for calls within the Borough is approximately 8 to 10 minutes maximum, while the coverage of Dallas Township is approximately 10 to 12 minutes maxlrnum.

The Dallas Fire and Ambulance, Inc. assists and is assisted by the following volunteer companies when necessary: Kunkle, Shavertown, Lehman, Trucksville, Franklin Township and Idetown. Each of the above on the average have three pieces of fire fighting equipment and their own ambulance.

- 73- Approximately 75 percent of the Borough has fire hydrant coverage , while the remaining 25 percent is dependent upon coverage by tanker.

The company is centrally located in the Borough Building on Main Street. This building, however, houses other functions such as Borough government, street maintenance, and police, and is, therefore, overcrowded and in fair condition.

DALLAS BOROUGH POLICE DEPARTMEYT

The Dallas Borough Police Department covers all of Dallas Borough and assists and is assisted by the Dallas and Kingston Township Depart- ments. The office is located in the Borough Building on Main Street and is staffed by 4 full time and 7 part time patrolmen. When manned, police calls are handled in the office. When men are on patrol, the Dallas Township radio dispatcher 'takes calls for the Borough from their police office located on Route 309 in the Township. The Borough pays the Township for this service. The Borough owns and operates one police cruiser.

According to police officials, there is a deficiency of manpower due to the fact that oftentimes the part time help are not able to work when necessary and assistance is then sought from the Dallas Township Police Department.

- 74- COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

CHAPTER I11 BUSINESS DISTRICT PLAN

Dal as Borough's Business District is located along Pennsylvania Routes 4 5/118 and 309, major transportation routes through the community. The image that it presents every day to travelers passing through is the basis for their opinion of the total community. For this reason, it is important for the district to present the most pleasing and orderly appearance possible so that the area may be a pleasant and profitable place to shop and conduct business.

The Dallas Borough Business District consist of three different business activity areas. The first area is Dallas Center which consists of the older grouping of structures located on both sides of Main Street south of Route 415. This area contains the oldest structures in the community and has been historically the hub of activity. Pennsylvania Route 415, a major transportation route with heavy volumes of traffic, separates Dallas Center from the second business activity area, the support district which is located north of Pennsylvania Route 415. The third area is the highway commercial district which includes all the commercial establishments above and below the Dallas Center and the support district on Route 415. This area, as the name implies, stretches along the highway and is not safely accessible to pedestrians.

DALLAS BOROUGH RETAIL TRADE AREA

The commercial and service establishments found in Dallas Borough provide for a wide range of consumer needs. These establishments together provide a range of service better than a typical neighborhood

-75- shopping center, but not as comprehensive as those provided by a large regional shopping center. The nearby commercial and service establishments located in the Wilkes-Barre-Scranton Area are the major competitors for the Greater Back Mountain Area retail trade.

An approximation of the Dallas Borough retail trade area was made based on travel time and distance from Dallas, and the location of other competitive retail centers. Figure 111-1 shows the location of major and minor retail trade centers and the approximate area considered to be the Borough's retail trade area. The line representing the retail trade area was derived by connecting the outer points of the area over which it was estimated that the Dallas Eorough business establishments exer- cise the dominating retail trade influence. A glance at the map clearly shows the major limits or breakpoints of this influence.

With increased demand for goods and service in the Back Mountain Area as a result of the projected future increase in population, additional retail trade businesses will be started and the resultant diversification of the types of goods and service available may increase the retail trade area of the Borough.

BUSINESS ACTIVITY IN THE BOROUGH

A checklist of the commercial and service functions by type that are found in each of these areas is shown in Table 111-1. The table shows that most of the Borough's commercial functions are found in the support and highway commercial areas. On the other hand, the CBD in addition to having several commercial establishments, does contain many of the Borough's service functions such as the Borough bui.lding and garage, fire and pol ice department, Dall as Area Municipal Authority , bank, library, newspaper, and drugstore. While only a minor center of commercial activity, the CBD is a center of many basic community services and facilities.

-76- DALLAS BOROUGH RETAIL TRADE AREA

LEGEND

DALLAS BOROUGH RE1'All TRADE AREA POSSIBLE FUTURE EXPANSION OF RETAIL TRADE AREA STATE ROUTES U.S. ROUTES INTERSTATE ROUTES

FIGURE 111-1 TABLE 111-1 COMMERCIAL AND SERVICE FUNCTIONS RY TYPE LOCATED IN DALLAS BOROUGH

CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT CB D SUP PORT H I GHWAY CORE AREA D I STRICT COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL RETAIL FUNCTIONS

Food Stores X X Eating and Drinking Places X X X General Merchandise X Apparel and Accessories X X Home Furnishing & Appliances X X Automotive Sales X X Gas Service Stations X X Hardware, Lumber, Building Materials X X Drug Stores X X X Bicycle Shop X Hobby and Craft Shop X X Jewelers X

SERVICE FUNCTIONS

Banking , S&L , Fi nance Agency X X X Real Estate X X Insurance X X Barber Shop X X Beauty Shop X X Cable TV X Radio and TV ReDair X Shoe Repair Laundry C1 eaners X Hotels & Motels Post Office Government X Pol ice X Fire X Uti 1i ties X Professional Serv ces-Doctors, Dent st X Newspaper X

-78- EXISTING CONDITIONS

The focus of this portion of the plan is Dallas Center, the historic hub of the community. Concern for the appearance of this area has been expressed by Borough officials. The area is typical of other old down- town or commercial areas across the country. A facade of commercial buildings stand side by side along Main Street punctuated occasionally by walks between structures leading to rear entrances, or by a lot cleared for parking.

APPEARANCE

An analysis of the store front facades in Dallas Center was performed by the consultant using black and white photography. The appearance of this area revealed the fronts and rears of many of the buildings located on the east side of Main Street are deteriorated and in need of rehabilitation. The west side of Main Street appears to be relatively II sound.

PARkTNG

Parking facilities in Dallas Center are rather limited. The lot located to the rear of Fino's and the United Penn Bank provides parking for about 46 vehicles. The vacant lot on the east side of Main Street between the barber shop and the restaurant provides parking for a small I number of vehicles. As mentioned in the previous section, persons riding the Luzerne County Transportation Authority buses use the bank lot and reduce the number of spaces available for business patrons. Other parking areas in the Borough include the ACME Market lot, the Corner Restaurant lot and the area to the rear of the Arc0 service station. The majority of this parking is for business patrons as is true of the parking provided by the post office.

- 79-

- . . . . . - . . The limited availability of off-street parking encourages parking along Main Street and other streets in Dallas Center. This street parking adds to street congestion, but on the other hand, benefits retail establishments which have parking available in front of their stores. Persons riding the Luzerne County Transportation Authority bus to work who park in Dallas may be using street parking and thus, in some cases, occupying spaces in front of retail establishments.

An increase in population for Dallas Borough and the Greater Back Mountain Community Area has been projected for the future. This growth will create the need for additional parking as more people will come to the Central Business District for commerical and service functions. This growth will increase the number of persons who drive to Dal las and park their cars in the Borough and ride the bus into the Wyoming Valley. Should the cost of gasoline rise significantly in the near future, more parking may be required to accommodate additional "Park and Ride" commuters and car poolers. The location of the parking facilities should be near the shopping area in order to promote commercial trade and encourage commuter shopping at the end of the day.

Idealistically, the Borough could utilize a Park and Ride lot for Luzerne County Transportation Authority commuters and also develop additional parking for business patrons. In the long run, this should have the affect of increasing both Dallas Center business and ridership on the Luzerne County Transportation Authority. Control of street parking, especially on Main Street via a time limit should be attempted if not already done in order to make it possible for more people to park near store fronts.

TRAFFIC CIRCULATION

The intersection of Main Street and Memorial Highway is awkward in that five streets converge and there are many different traffic movements possible. This intersection was dealt with in more detail in the previous chapter under the Transportation and Thoroughfare section.

-80- A circulation problem related to this intersection involves the access to the United Penn Bank parking lot. Traffic entering and leaving the lot in the vicinity of the intersection of Machell Avenue and Memorial Highway has difficulty at peak traffic hours. Also, bank customers approaching the bank's drive-in windows from Memorial Highway sometimes overflow or backup onto Main Street.

BUSINESS DISTRICT PLAN

A sketch of the proposed improvements to each of the store front facades along the east side of Main Street is illustrated in Plate 111-1.

The proposed actions needed to achieve these results will require both public and private involvement. Public support will be needed to provide improvements in the streets and sidewalk areas while private action and cooperation between property owners will be needed to upgrade the buildings. Public action would include the following:

1. Planting of two street trees (2 - 2-1/2 inch diameter trunks) one on each side of the entrance to the proposed park ng lot i (to be discussed next). 2. Improving and maintaining sidewalks and curbs. I 3. Provision and maintenance of street furniture such as benches, I trash containers and decorative features. PRIVATE liWROVEMENTS 'I The proposed contribution by merchants and property owners incl udes attention to repainting and cleaning of building facades and signs, I removal of unnecessary elements such as unneeded hanging signs, lighting brackets and wires, and reorganization of store fronts when necessary to I provide continuity for several stores in the same structure and across I adjacent buildings. The actions would be voluntary and the desired I -81 - I result would be to improve the visual appearance of the street by making it more orderly and attractive. Since store fronts and the buildings themselves deteriorate and need to be refurbished, and since a store

owner i s normal ly conscious of his bui 1 di ng I s appearance , the opportunity for repainting and repair comes periodically for every business building. In addition to this, added incentive can be given to the business establishments in the form of tax breaks which will be discussed in Chapter V and the Appendix. Usually the selection of colors, sign types, lighting, letter styles and store front materials is made without reference to how neighboring buildings are designed or deco- rated. If store owners are made aware of a desire by all the owners to improve in accordance with a plan that all will follow, the chances are excellent that the plan will be carried out without coercion over a period of time as each owner repaints, replaces signs and redecorates for new tenants, as he would do naturally with or without a plan. The active and enthusiastic support of the Chamber of Commerce will be necessary start the program moving and provide leadership as it i to to develops. The cooperation of the Borough will also be needed. Its commitment to the program by maintaining the sidewalks and other street elements will go a long way to encourage the store owners to act to further the plan.

Proposed improvements to the stores on the east side of Main Street are indicated on the drawing titled "Facade Study" (Plate 111-1). Specifically the improvements to private property can be grouped as follows:

1. Upgrading walls, trim and architectural details by cleaning, repainting, repairing deterioration and removing surface clutter, such as old or redundant signs, lighting brackets or wires.

2. Improving store fronts by reorganizing the elements, providing continuity across store fronts and between buildings and upgrading 1 i ghting and entranceways.

-82-

3. Refurbishing signs by repainting, selection of lettering from a family of alphabets, relighting from within the sign or from a hidden source, and rehanging signs to improve continuity with neighboring signs.

Where walls are brick or stone they should be cleaned and repainted. Painted masonry, plaster or stucco surfaces should be brushed down to remove scale and dirt and repainted. Wood trim and architectural details should be repainted also. The colors used in repainting are important. Two groups of colors should be selected - one for walls and other surfaces to be neutralized and the second for surfaces to be made prominent, such as store fronts, window and door trim to be emphasized and sign lettering or backgrounds.

The intended colors are listed on Plate 111-1. Ten neutral or "field" colors are suggested as well as ten high visibility or "accent" colors. They may be used in any combination that suits the building owner. The field colors would include neutral greys, browns, and greens as well as black and white. The accent colors would be vibrant reds, oranges, blues, greens and yellows. The field colors could be used for sidewalls and upper floor front walls as well as second floor trim if it should be played down. The accent colors should highlight store front trim, architectural details, entrances and sign lettering.

When several stores share the same building they should relate to one another by having a common window head height and sign boards that are of equal height. When this relationship is difficult to achieve, an awning or screen can unify the facade. Doorways should be recessed so they do not swing out over the sidewalk and entrances to second floors off the street should be visually distinct from entrances to the stores. Upper floor premises should be neutralized so as to emphasize the store fronts below. Where possible continuity should be carried across adjacent store fronts by using a common height of signs above the sidewalk.

-85- Signs should be secured flat to the front of a building between the head of first floor windows and the sills of windows on the second floor or the top of the parapet wall if a one story building. Attention should be paid to letter styles, to color of backgrounds and letters and to lighting. Perhaps nine letter styles should be selected that are easily read, yet provide some continuity among themselves and offer a variety to fit most tastes. There should be some solid styles of letters and some open; some san serif and others with "feet." Upper and lower case of each alphabet could be used, increasing variety. Colors should be contrasting - bright or dark letters on a neutral light background or light or bright letters on a neutral dark background.

While signs should be mounted flat on the wall, awnings and marquees should be permitted also, and the opportunity exists on the lower edges of the ends or fronts of these for store names. Awnings are normally in use only in warm weather, are removed in cold weather, provide shade from hot sun and are retractable on a metal frame. Marquees are perma- nently mounted on a building, are made of materials that can withstand all weather and provide protection from rain and snow as well as sun. Both awnings and marquees can provide a unifying element across the fronts of buildings housing several stores behind dissimilar store fronts and be a colorful element in the streetscape. Since signs lighted from within require a thickness of perhaps a foot to accommodate the lighting elements, the ends of those signs could also bear a store name .

Sign lighting should be from behind, above or below the sign. Lighting from behind will shine through a translucent panel, emphasizing the letters, or the panel can be opaque and the letters translucent. If lighting is from above or below the sign, it should be fluorescent and mounted on the sign panel, washing light across the face of the sign. Such lighting can be so unobtrusive that the source of the lighting is hardly visible except from directly below.

-86- ADDITIONAL PARKING FACILITIES

An increase in population for Dallas Borough and the Greater Back Mountain Community Area has been projected for the future. This growth will create the need for additional parking as more people will come to the business district for commercial and service functions. This growth in the Back Mountain Area may increase the number of persons who drive to Dallas and park their cars in the Borough and ride the bus into the Wyoming Valley. Should the cost of gasoline rise significantly in the near future, more parking may be required to accommodate additional "park and ride" commuters and car poolers. The location of the parking facility should be near Dallas Center in order to promote commercial trade and encourage commuter shopping at the end of the day.

Vacant land located in the area bounded by Main Street, Memorial Highway, and Mill Street would be close to the major business establishments and also to the Transportation Authority Bus Stops and could provide parking for at least 30 cars.

This lot would help to reduce the pressure for parking in the bank lot which is intended for patrons and would also make use of the vacant land between the barber shop and restaurant and the land on the corner of Memorial Highway and Mill Street. Figure 111-2 shows the proposed parking plan. A preliminary cost estimate for developing a lot in this area is as follows:

Acquisition of Property $ 50,000 Site Preparation, Paving, Curbing, Line Painting 20 ,000 TOTAL $ 70,000

-87- 1. The preparation of this map was financed in part through a planning grant lrom the De partment of Community Affairs under the provisions 01 Act 16A approved May 31, 1978. as administered by the Bureau of Planning, Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs.

20' 0' 20' 40'

SCALE

PROPOSED PARKING PLAN :DALLAS BOROUGH BUSINESS DISTRICT PREPARED BY THE CHESTER ENGINEERS AND MALCOLM STRACHAN, PLANNING CONSULTANT APRIL 25, 1979 FIGURE 111-2 The lot would provide free public parking and would be owned, developed, and maintained by the Borough. Maintenance costs would be minimal and would include snow removal and periodic surface repair. Business establishments may be willing to share the maintenance costs with the Borough.

-89- COMPREHENSIVE MASTER PLAN DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

CHAPTER IV COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

This chapter presents the Comprehensive Plan, the purpose of which is to help guide the physical development of Dallas Borough during the next 20-year period. The plan is a synthesis of the Land Use Plan, Environmental Preservation Plan, Community Facilities and Utilities Plan, and the Transportation and Thoroughfare Plan.

As is true of any plan, the Comprehensive Plan and its separate elements should be a flexible document, responsive to change overtime. Periodically, Borough Council and the Planning Commission should review and update the Plan so that the community's resources are utilized in an efficient manner.

LAND USE PLAN

The Land Use Plan, presented in Plate IV-1, draws heavily upon the existing land use arrangement and other factors such as topography and the existence of utilities. The land use categories shown on the Com- prehensive Plan Map are as follows:

1. Residential: low density, single family. 2. Multi-Family Residential: single family, low to high density mu1 ti-family. 3. Commercial: includes both CBD commercial and highway commercial. 4. Industrial: manufacturing and non-manufacturing such as transfer and storage.

-91- 5. Public/Semi-Public: includes schools, churches, colleges, cemeteries, parks, municipal, county and state facilities. 6. Transportation, Communication, and Utili ties (TUC) : includes disposal plants, water reservoirs, treatment plants, gas or electric utilities, etc. 7. Agriculture: includes lands in agriculture, orchards, commercial tree growing, etc. 8. Conservation/Wooded: includes steep slopes, wooded areas, stream valleys and floodplains which should not be developed.

FUTURE LAND USE AREAS

The Comprehensive Plan Map (Plate IV-1) shows the year 2000 configu- ration of the above land use categories. The estimated acreage of each of these uses as shown in Table IV-1. These land use figures are estimates of the amount of acreage available for each land use, not the amount of total land to be developed by the year 2000.

The area designated as single family residential by the Comprehen- sive Plan Map would not be completely developed by the year 2000 assum-. ing the addition of the estimated 220 residences. Based on the Luzerne County Planning Commission Assessment maps, the estimated number of lots presently vacant in the area planned for single family residential is about 350. The major areas where significant single family residential development may occur and an estimate of the lots available is summar- ized below. Additonal new development west of the present residential area is also expected to occur.

AREA LOTS AVAILABLE 1. Highland Boulevard Area 68 2. Hickory Road, Powder Horn Drive and Orchard Drive 25 3. Maple Avenue 35 4. Pineview Street 25

-92- ":&;* - RESIDENTIAL-MULTI-FAMILY

HIGHWAY COMMERCIAL DALLAS BOROUGH LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSY LVANlA COMMERCIAL-CBD

Ed.I . INDUSTRIAL

PUBLICISEMI-PUBLIC

---____I_ - -_ - - - -I_ ____. _I -- ______-_- _- - THE CHE%?ETENQlNEEnS - -- TRANSPORTATION, COMMUNICATION, E .'... . . AND UTILITIES source Lulerne Counly Planning cornmlsslon

AGRICULTURE mj CONSERVATlONlWOODED PLATE IV-1

IBIKE PATH-PROPOSED

R SUMMER RECREATION-PROPOSED @ TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENTS TABLE IV-1 LAND USE PLAN ACREAGE DALLAS BOROUGH YEAR 2000

ESTIMATED ACREAGE LAND USE NUMBER PERCENT OF TOTAL Residential - Single Family 360.00 23.4 Residential - Multi-Family 85.00 5.5 Commercial 75.00 4.9 Industrial 17.45 1.1 Transportation, Communication, and Utilities (TUC) 75.00 4.9 Public and Semi-public 29.40 1.9 Agriculture 125.00 8.1 Conservation/Wooded 706.95 46.0 Water 62.20 4.0 TOTAL DEVELOPED ACRES (Subtotal ) 691.85 45.0 1 TOTAL AREA OF BOROUGH 1,536 99.8

1 Does not total 100% due to rounding.

-95- I

AREA LOTS AVAILABLE s 5. South of Huntsville Street 63 m 6. Maplewood Avenue and Red Ledge Road 36 7. Susquehanna Avenue, Center Hill Road and Lackawanna Avenue 21 1 8. Miscellaneous, scattered throughout area -77 TOTAL 350 I

Additional highway commercial development expected to occur will be along Memorial Highway and Pennsylvania Route 309. 1

The amount of land in the Transportation Communication and Utili- ties (TCU) category is expected to increase as a result of the paving of new local streets due to residential development.

No significant change in the amount of land in industrial and public and semi-public uses is projected.

ENVIRONMENTAL PRESERVATION PLAN

The Land Use Plan shows 46 percent of the Borough to be in the Conservation/Wooded category. Accounting for the major portion of this use is the Huntsville Reservoir watershed which occupies the western portion of the Borough. Because the reservoir is a source of water for municipalities in the Wyoming Valley, development in the watershed or nearby area should be discouraged. In addition other wooded areas in the Borough not presently developed should be conserved as an open space amenity for the residents. The cemeteries, located in the eastern portion of the Borough, should be considered as conservation areas. Other undeveloped steep slope areas and stream valleys such as Toby Creek should remain undeveloped, in order to minimize future problems attributable to development of unsuitable terrain. No development should be permitted in the flood hazard zone areas of the streams and water bodies in the Borough. -96- ZONING ANALYSIS

The Borough's zoning ordinance was adopted on February 20, 1973, nearly eight years prior to the publication of this comprehensive plan. The analysis of existing land- use and of the various factors that will affect the future use of land has resulted in a land use plan for Dallas Borough which is the key element of the planning process. It is appropriate that the existing zoning district map be reviewed against the land use plan and recommendations made for amendments to the map as necessary. The land use plan should be the basis for the zoning map and significant deviations, one from the other, may be difficult for the Borough to justify if the zoning map is challenged in court. In addition, the text of the ordinance has been reviewed and a critique is bound into the rear of this document as Appendix A.

It should be kept in mind that the land use plan is the most logical arrangement for the year 2000 as projected in 1980, while the present zoning map was developed without the benefit of a formal projection of growth and change. A comparison of the land use plan and the zoning map should be amended wholesale to accommodate the land use plan. Instead, as developer pressure builds and zoning district changes are requested, the land use plan should be consulted to determine whether a request should be approved or whether the developer should be encouraged to consider other locations in the Borough more appropriate for what he contemplates.

The following specific changes are recommended to the zoning map, P to be accomplished over a 20-year period, in order to make the map compatible with the land use plan (see Plate IV-2). Developer interest should determine the order in which these changes occur. A critique of the Zoning Ordinance text is found in the appendix of this plan. The critique discusses the specific portions of each of the articles in the zoning ordi nance which could be improved or corrected.

-97- 1. C-1 Conservation District - Portions of the C-1 District in the Toby Creek drainage basin west of the present large R-1 District should eventually be rezoned R-1, as public sewer and water lines are extended. The extension of the R-1 district into the area draining toward the Huntsville Reservoir should be avoided until nearly all available land in the rest of the R-1 zoned districts has been developed. Such extension of R-1 will involve construction of sewer pump stations and force mains and careful attention to surface water drainage. It is also recommended that the Toby Creek Valley south from below the town center, including the steep valley sides and the portions of the stream where it directly abuts Route 415 be rezoned C-1 to preserve the fragile environment from encroachment. The two cemeteries should also be rezoned C-1 for protection.

2. R-1 Single and Two-Family Residence District - The future extension of the R-1 District westward into C-1 is described above. It is also recommended that the Main Street area south of the town center, now zoned 8-2 Business, be rezoned R-1 because of the predominantly steep slopes on both sides of the street and present residential character of the development. It should be remembered that a great many small lots remain to be developed in the R-1 district and most of these should be used before the R-1 District is expanded.

3. R-2 Apartment Residence District - At present only a large, already developed, tract in the southeast corner of the Borough is zoned R-2. The consensus of Borough officials seems to be that the remainder of the residential areas should be reserved for one and two family buildings. If the pressure from developers for more apartment opportunities becomes irresistible, areas within the present R-1 zone that could best support apartment development are those that abut the collector streets leading to the town center and are closest to the center. The rationale is that higher density development acts as a buffer between commercial and single family home areas and by placing apartments next

-98- ZONING DISTRICTS I 2000 DkLL A S -3- nI c-1

A C-1

LEGEND DALLAS BOROUGH C-l CONSERVATION DISTRICTS LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

ThC "lr"drn,,On "1 lhld ma" WdS llnanced I" R-1 SINGLE & TWO FAMILY RESIDENTIAL oartlncht,),1,, ,n,"$,qn "I acommunliy p,a"","g gem,AII~US 1,om under ,ne theDe a ,a5~)r~rwons .lilminislcrEdor Act by16A the dpvoveO Bs8eav May01 Planning11 1970 R-2 APARTMENT RESIDENCE DISTRICT N

-~~ -94- -NEIGHBORHOOD -BUSINESS & SHOPPING ~ CENTER- -. ~- SCILL1N EEL1 - - - THE CHESTER ENQINEERS B-2 HIGHWAY SERVICE BUSINESS DISTRICT E /./...., v;,;. . :.,; ,: ,,, , , ;. #;.yC*'.,,, ,,,,,, , M-1 INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT C Source ~uierneCourily Planning Cornrnisslon

PLATE IV-2 to the business district, traffic generated by the apartment residents will not have to traverse the single family home neighborhoods to reach the main highways. On this basis the best areas for expansion of the R- 2 districts would be along Center Hill, machell, and Huntsville Avenues to the west of the town center and Lake Avenue to the east, particularly larger parcels of land that abut these streets. It is very likely that within any areas rezoned from R-1 to R-2 the majority of development will remain single or two-family dwellings because of the existing pattern of small lots throughout the older residential areas of the Borough, and the maximum permitted height of two and a half stories. Incidentally, the best means for preserving the large older homes in the Borough near the town center, is to allow their conversion to several dwelling units, consistent with the size of the lots they occupy, as would be permitted in an R-2 district.

4. 9-1 Neighborhood Business and Shopping Center District - The B-1 District currently includes only that portion of the Borough's business section on the east side of Routes 309 and 415 in the southeast corner of the Borough extending up Route 309 on both sides of its short length before it enters Dallas Township. All the remainder of the highway frontage and town center, as well as Main Street south of the center, is zoned B-2, Highway Service Commercial. This arrangement seems inappropriate considering the way the commercial areas have historically developed. The B-1 Neighborhood Business District should be the town center on either side of Route 415 from Machell to below Mill Street, extending short distances up Lake, Church and Main Streets. The rest of the commercially zones areas, except the properties fronting Main Street below Huntsville Avenue which should be I?-1 and the Toby Creek Valley and cemeteries which should be C-1 , are more appropriately zoned B-2, Highway Service Business District. It would appear that the present lists of permitted and special uses for each commercial zoning classification would neatly fit this proposed rearrangement of commercial districts.

-101- 5. B-2 Highway Service Business District - Changes recommended for this district are discussed under B-1 above.

6. M-1 Industrial District - 140 changes in this district are proposed.

The suggestions for improving the text of the Ordinance are intended to call attention to inconsistencies, potential problems arising from application of the ordinance regulations, and compl iance with recent requirements of the State Planning Code. For example, the minimum size lot permitted for single family development in the R-1 zone district when public sewer and water service is lacking is 20,000 square feet. Considering the poor quality of soils throughout the Borough a minimum area of one acre should be adopted wherever public sewer access is not avai 1 able.

Mobile home park standards are described in the text but are not permitted by right or special use in any zone district. Individual mobile homes are permitted only in mobile home parks, so effectively mobile homes are now prohibited in the Borough. Several alternative solutions to this dilemma should be considered. Mobile home parks could be allowed as a special use in either the C-1 or B-2 districts. If the C-1 was selected, the parks would be removed from the single family home areas and large tracts could be acquired but traffic would filter through the residential districts, and sewage and storm water disposal would have to be carefully handled. If the B-2 was selected, the residential districts would be protected and sewage and storm water disposal would be no real problem but only small parcels of land would be available and the parks would be visually prominent from the highways. The B-2 alternative would seem to be the better of the two.

-102- It is suggested that the Borough adopt regulations in the zoning ordinance to control highway access, parking lot layout, storm drainage, landscaping, and site preparation in the commercial and industrial districts. Also, similar requirements should be considered for multiple family developments, establishing standards for access , spacing between buildings, storm drainage, landscaping, site preparation and home owner associations if condominium sales are being considered.

COMMUNITY FACILITIES

Good schools, parks, and public services are expected as a basic part of a community's environment. Maintenance of sound community facilities is an important aspect of an area's desirability as a place to live. Each of the community facilities discussed in this section were described in Chapter I1 and evaluated as to their adequacy.

RECREATION FACILITIES

The Borough needs a neighborhood recreation facility in the southern portion of the community.

This deficiency could be accommodated by improving the available facilities at the Dallas Elementary School on Huntsville Road. Opera- tion of a public summer recreation program similar to that offered at the Dallas Borough Municipal Park should be considered.

BIKE PATH

A proposed route for a bike path through the Borough is shown on the Comprehensive Plan Map. In addition to its recreational value, the bike path could help link together areas where people live, work and play. Automobile congestion could be reduced and energy conserved through the increased use of bicycles throughout the Borough. The

- 103- suggested route intentionally avoids, as much as possible, those areas which experience heavy vehicular traffic. Access to Dallas Center has been provided through the utilization of back streets. The route should be a paved path at least 5 feet wide with 8 feet being desirable. Except for the 2,800 foot portion of the path on Reservoir Road the proposed path is already paved. Designation of the route could be accomplished using pavement markings and signs.

Assistance should be sought from the League of American Irlheelman, the National Organization of Bicyclists in the detailed planning of the b i keway .

The provision of bike racks at strategic locations in Dallas Center, the Municipal Park, etc. would help promote bicycle usage.

EDUCATION FACILITIES

Based on the information presented in Chapter 11, it was shown that the Dallas Elementary School Facility should have adequate capacity until at least the year 2000.

LIBRARY FACILITIES

The Back Mountain Memorial Library is presently in need of additional space. It was estimated in Chapter I1 that the Library would require about 13,000 square feet of space by the year 2000.

A new library facility to be located at the present location is recommended. The area presently occupied by the library is about 57,800 sq ft or 1.3 acres. Using an estimated building cost of $50.00/sq ft, a new 13,000 sq ft facility would cost about $650,000. An additional $55,000 for design and engineering and $12,000 for demolition brings the total cost of the new library to $717,000. This cost includes masonry,

-1 04- roofing, floor covering, painting, plumbing, heating, ventilating, air conditioning, mechanical, and electrical costs, but does not include demolition of the existing buildings or site preparation work.

Other libraries available to the Borough's residents include the Hoyt Public Library in Kingston Borough, the library facility of Misrecordia College, and the libraries available in the Dallas Area School District. With the exception of the Hoyt Library, these facilities are usually only available to a particular age group at specified times during school hours. In order to more effectively use these available resources, the hours could be expanded and the services made available to a wider segment of the population. Through such techniques as a comprehensive indexing system, inter1 ibrary book loans, cooperative reading involvement programs, etc., a better utilization of the area's total library resources could be achieved.

FIRE, AMBULANCE, POLICE AND BOROUGH OFFICE FACILITY

The present structure, housing all of the above is lacking in space and is badly in need of repair. It is recommended that a new facility housing the Dall as Fi re and Ambul ance Company, Pol ice Department, Borough Government, Magistrate's Office, Social Meeting Room and Street Maintenance Department be built on the present site.

The present site measures about 90 feet wide by 325 feet deep, a total area of about 29,250 sq ft or .67 acres. Based on the 1976 Dallas Municipal Center Plan, by Smith, Miller and Associates, Inc., the new facility would contain a total of 17,000 sq ft. The approximate area of each of the functions housed is as follows:

- 105- AREA IN SQUARE FEET Borough Garage and Mechanical Equipment Storage 5,100 Fire and Ambulance Department 3,500 Magistrate Office and Hearing Room 1,500 Borough Office, Council Chambers and Caucus Room 1,800 Social Meeting Room, Kitchen, two offices 3,500 Heating, Air Conditioning , Corridors , Restrooms, and Miscellaneous Space 1,600 TOTAL 17,000

Using a figure of $50 a square foot for construction the estimated cost of this 17,000 square foot facility would be as follows.

1. Demo1 i tion $ 18,000 2. Building Construction 17,000 sq ft @ $50/sq ft 850,000 3. Design and Engineering 8% of Line 2 68,000 TOTAL $936 ,000 I Please note this does not include the cost of site preparation. There would also be additional costs associated with the provision of space to house each of the functions temporarily during the construction phase.

An alternative proposal would be to implement the original plans for the Dallas Municipal Center as drawn up in 1976. This plan included a library facility with nearly 9,000 square feet of floor space which would be adequate. The width of this structure requires the acquisition of the property which is adjacent to and south of the Borough property. The estimated cost of this structure in 1976 was $2-1/4 million dollars. It is not known what this figure included, however, using a 10 percent per anum inflation rate this structure would be estimated at about $3- 1/4 million today. It is assumed that this estimate does not include the cost of acquiring the additional property that is needed.

-1 06- SEWER FACILITIES i I The present sewer facilities in Dallas Borough are adequate. It has been estimated that significant development pressure in the Borough should not occur prior to 1985. Aft r this date, residential development may move into the Rulison Evans Reservoir's drainage basin and if not sewered, could cause serious env ronmental problem in the future (see Plate 11-5).

Because the Powder Horn Drive Area has recently experienced some development, it appears to be a likely candidate for future sewer service expansion. A community sand mound system is presently employed in this area for a portion of the residences. Over the long run, these systems usually lose their operational efficiency and must be maintained. Conversion to conventional sewer service is recommended.

The provision of sewers in this area would require the use of a pump station at the lowest point in the drainage area and the construction of a force main to transport the sewage over the drainage divide into the gravity lines located in the eastern portion of the Borough.

WATER FACILITIES

As is true of sewer facilities the Borough appears to be well equipped with water facilities.' The provision of water to the Powder Horn Drive Area by developer is recommended (see Plate 11-6).

In 1970 the maximum daily water demand of the system was .75 mg. In 1973 this was projected to increase to 1.45 mg by 1980 as a result of continued growth in Dallas Borough and Dallas Township.* Thus it is recommended that there be additional improvements made in the distribution system.

*Master Plan for Water Supply and Waste Water Management in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, Volume I1 Water Planning., January 31, 1973, Gilbert Associates, Inc., Reading Pennsylvania. It is also recommended that whenever possible, the transmission and distribution mains be upgraded to meet the standards of the Gradlng Schedule for Municipal Fire Protection as published by the Insurance Services Office. This schedule suggests that in residential areas water mains have a minimum size of 6 inches for short lengths and 8 inches for longer runs, new construction, dead ends, and where a poor gridiron pattern exists. Commerical areas should have 8 inch minimum mains and 12 inch maximum mains on principal streets and for all long lines.

TRANSPORTATION AND THOROUGHFARE PLAN

The PennDOT street dimension standards presented in Chapter I1 were applied to each of the street classifications in the Borough revealing the following deficiencies which should be corrected.

LOCAL STREETS

@ Widen Water Street from 12 feet to 16 or 18 feet and provide a cul-de-sac at the end of the street.

@ The portion of Spring Street between Lehman and Pinecrest Lane (alley) should be closed due to the severe dip at the intersection of Lehman and Spring. A turn around or cul-de-sac could be provided in the vicinity of Spring Street and Pine- crest Lane and the paving on Spring Street between Pinecrest Lane and Lehman Avenue could be removed and replaced with grass and plantings.

0 Sidewalks should be provided on Huntsville Road from the Dallas Elementary School to Davenport Avenue in order to minimize the safety hazard of students who must walk on the road in going to and from school.

-1 08- COLLECTORS

8 Increase the paving width of Machell Avenue from 18 feet to 20 feet from Olde Orchard to the Equestrian Center.

INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS

Proposed improvements to minimize problems at the two key inter- sections in the Borough are presented in this section.

8 Intersection of Main Street and Memorial Highway (Figure IV- 1).

1. Widen pavement on Lake Street at monument to accommodate a right turn lane. 2. Widen Church Street pavement at the intersection with Memorial Highway in order to provide for a right turn storage 1ane. 3. Widen Memorial Highway pavement in front of the post office to accommodate a separate right hand turning lane. 4. Make the post office entrance one way from Church Street into the post office lot. Provide an additional two way access point to the lot on Foster Street. 5. Provide two left turn storage lanes on Memorial Highway northbound. The first would be for the entrance into the bank parking lot. The second lane would be for the entrance into Machell Avenue. 6. During peak traffic hours, 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM, prohibit on street parking on the east side of Main Street.

# Intersection of Memorial Highway (PA 415) and PA 309 (Figure IV-2). These improvements assume the installation of traffic si gnal s . ‘I I 6 -1 09- I

=,&@a - m m ------e

DALLAS SHOPPING AREA TRAFFIC RECOMMENDATIONS INTERSECTION OF PA ROUTES 309 & 415

LEGEND - Proposed Edge of Pavement ------Access Proposed To Be Closed \ -'-.-*-*- Proposed Edge of Traffic Lanes Direction of Traffic Flow -- -* Proposed Traffic Signal

The preparation 01 this map was tlnancrd ,n parl lhrough a planning grant lrom the De Parlmenl 01 Community Allairs under the provisions 01 Act 16A approved Ma31. 1970. a5 administered by Ihe Bureau 01 Planning. AllaimPennsylvania Department 01 Community

I FIGURE IV-2 1. Close access to both highways at the indicated locations. 2. Provide dual left turn storage lanes at the intersection of Memorial Highway and PA 309 by widen pavement. This should help alleviate the problem of cars stacking up and blocking the access and egress to the Dallas Shopping Center. 3. Move the access and egress point from the Shopping Center onto PA 309, northward along 309. 4. Combine the access and egress point to Perkins Pancakes and the Medical Center. 5. Widen pavement on Memorial Highway in front of Dallas Shopping Center to provide for a left turn storage lane. 6. Widen southbound lane of PA 309 to provide left turn storage 1anes . 7. Provide additional turn storage lanes along both highways as shown on map. 8. Provide curbing in the Dallas Shopping Center in order to minimize irregular and hazardous movements.

STORM WATER MANAGEMENT

During periods of high flow, Toby Creek has risen over its banks and flooded the backyards of residences fronting on Foster Street. Large volumes of runoff entering from the unnamed tributary which enters Toby Creek from the north just downstream from these properties is believed to be the cause of the problem. Toby Creek then flows beneath the Agway Building and then crosses under PA Route 415 and flows southward.

In order to solve this problem it is recommended that a transfer channel be constructed at a specified elevation along the east side of PA 415 connecting Toby Creek to itself just south of the post office. This channel would divert excess flow away from the problem area during I peak runoff events.

-112- COMPREHENSIVE VASTER PLAN DALLAS BOROUGH 1 LUZERNE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CHAPTER V P FISCAL STUDY

I 2 This chapter presents an analysis of Dallas Borough's past budg- etary trends and projects these trends forward to provide a basis for I understanding how the effectuation of the Comprehensive Plan can be achieved financially. All major recommendations in the Comprehensive fl Plan considered Capital Improvements are compiled and existing methods for financing them are presented. 1 At the time of the writing of this plan cutbacks in some of the federal funding sources are perceived. These changes may seriously hamper the Borough's future efforts to implement certain elements of the plan. Because of the present state of the economy, cost estimates made today are not accurate for significantly long periods of time.

FINANCIAL TRENDS

Borough financial reports over the three year period 1976 to 1978 were examined to determine the Borough's spending and revenue patterns. Table V-1 summarizes the Borough's General Fund receipts and expenditures by major categories. From this data, trend line projections were made for 1980 through 1986.

-1 13- TABLE V-1 SUMPIARY OF GENERAL FUND RECE I PTS AND EXPEND I TURES 1976-1978

1976 1977 1978 % OF % OF % OF CATEGORY DOLLARS TOTAL DOLLARS TOTAL DOLLARS TOTAL

BALANCE - January 1 $ 41,054.53 $ 44,287.93 $ 77,821.05

Real Estate and Per Capita Tax 55,073.95 31.5 57,341.47 26.2 56,496.1 7 28.4 Earned Income Tax 70,210.80 40.1 80,034.87 36.5 83,832.33 42.1 Real Estate Transfer Tax 11,813.01 6.7 13,430.64 6.1 12,389.57 6.2 Licenses and Permits 2,704.00 1.5 2,783.00 1.3 4,065.00 2.0 Fines, Forfeits and Costs 1,364.50 .8 4,009.42 1.8 7,370.25 3.7 Interes t 1,438.84 .8 2 ,382.98 1.1 3,114.92 1.6 Rents 3,900.00 2.2 3,045.00 1.4 2,980.00 1.5 Departmen ta 1 Ea rnings 3,268.50 1.9 3,298.46 1.5 2,902.78 1.4 Grants and Gifts 21,434.37 12.2 51,085.30 23.3 23,825.76 12.0 Miscellaneous Revenue Receipts --- 955.29 .4 1,014,93 .5 I -I d NON-REVENUE RECEIPTS 3,816.56 2.2 649.00 .3 1,213.30 .6 P I TOTAL RECEIPTS 175,024.53 100.0 21 9,015.43 100.0 199,205.01 100.0 TOTAL RECE 1PTS AND OPEN1 NG BALANCE 21 6,079.06 263,303.36 277,026.06 GOVERNMENTAL EXPENDITURES Adnii nistrati on 12,360.12 7.2 8,876.93 4.8 9,644.72 5.2 Tax Collections 4,548.19 2.6 4,616.78 2.5 5,018.29 2.7 Borough Buildings 9,432.53 5.5 5,678.25 3.1 3,941.65 2.1 Pol ice Protection 65,389.77 38.1 62,976.84 34.0 63,012.66 33.6 Fire Protection 2,560.87 1.5 759.98 .4 746.81 .4 Building, Regulation, Planning and Zoning 691.70 .4 1,005.48 .5 955.30 .5 Highways Streets, Roads and Bridges 35,845.05 20.9 55,580.1 3 30.0 47,576.14 25.4 Street L ight ing 12,802.18 7.4 14,246.86 7.7 14,656.23 7.8 Library 100.00 .1 100.00 .1 100.00 .1 Recreation 7,802.84 4.5 6,089.99 3.3 6,964.1 1 3.7 Insurance 9,999.00 5.8 13,090.00 7.1 16 ,183.00 8.6 Miscellaneous Governmental 10,240.87 6.0 12,461.07 6.7 14,829.20 7.9 Transfers to Other Funds ------3,748.70 2.0 TOTAL EXPENDITURES 171,791.12 100.0 185,482.31 100.0 187,376.81 100.0 BALANCE-END OF YEAR 44,287.94 77,821.05 89,649.25 TOTAL EXPENDITURES AND BALANCE 21 6 ,079.06 263 ,303.36 277,026.00 SOURCE: Annual Audit and Financial Report for Dallas Borough, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania - 1976, 1977, 1978. mrnmmrnummmmrn~~~,-mmrmmm REVENUES

Table V-1 shows that the largest source of revenue for the Borough during the three year period was tax receipts. In 1976 taxes accounted for nearly 78 percent of the total income. While revenue from taxes increased over the three year period, the dollar amount accounted for about the same proportion of total receipts in 1978.

CASH BALANCE

These monies are not an actual revenue source but the cash balance that is carried forward from one fiscal year to another. The Borough during the three year period has carried forward increasingly larger amounts of money. In 1976, the cash balance as of January 1 was $41,055 at the end of 1978 the balance was $89,649.

EXPENDITURES

The actual cost of performing and providing Borough services is covered by general fund expenditures.

In 1978 police expenditures accounted for approximately 33.6 percent of the total. Highway expenditures accounted for about 33.2 percent of the total. These two items together accounted for nearly two-thirds of the Borough's expenditures in 1978. Table V-1 shows the distribution of other expenditures for the period 1976-1978.

RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURES TRENDS AND PROJECTIONS

An examination of Figure V-1, showing Borough receipts and expenditures for the period.1976-1978, reveals that there has never been a period of deficit spending. Over this three year period the Borough's expenditures have remained bel ow the receipts .

-1 15- It was determined that the average yearly increase in expenditures over the period 1976-1978 was about 3.0 percent while receipts increased on the average by 4.6 percent. Projections for the period 1980 to 1986 were made using these percentage increases on a per anum basis (see Table V-2).

TABLE V-2 PROJECTED RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURES

PROJECTED PROJ ECTED DIFFERENCE YEAR RECEIPTS EXPENDITURES SURPLUS (+) - DEFICIT (-) 1980 217,953 198,788 +19,165 1981 229,979 204,752 +25 ,227 1982 240,558 21 0,894 +29,664 1983 251,624 217,221 +34,403 1984 263,199 223,138 +30,461 1985 275,306 230,450 +44,856 1986 287,970 237,364 +50,600

The projections show a continuation of the past trend where receipts have exceeded expenditures to the year 1982. The Borough will be repaving streets in 1982 and this will increase highway expenditures significantly, thus negating the projected surplus.

From the past trends and future projections shown it appears that the Borough has a sound budget and has historically met its financial responsibilities in the past. In order to meet its future street repaving needs the Borough may have to increase its revenues through a tax increase in the near future.

-1 16- i B OUTSTANDING INDEBTEDNESS AND DEBT LIMITATIONS

The Borough's borrowing capacity and present debt are key factors in understanding the amount of funds that are available through borrowing in order to finance recommended capital improvements.

EXISTING DEBT

According to the 1978 financi a1 statement , Dall as Borough presently has no outstanding debts.

DEBT LLVIT

The Local Government Unit Debt Act as amended by Act 1978-52 estab- lishes the nonelectoral debt limit for third class boroughs as 250 percent of their average total revenue over the past three years. Calculation of the Borough's nonelectoral debt limit is presented below in Table V-3:

TABLE V-3 CALCULATION OF DEBT LIMIT -YEAR REVENUES 1976 $1 49,774 1977 167,281 1978 174.166 TOTAL $491,221*

Average-Total I 3 = $163,740 Debt Limit ($163,740 x 2.5) $409,350

* Less Grants and Gifts-in-Aid.

-1 17- The above calculation is an approximation of the Borough's nonelectoral debt limit. From this total must be subtracted the net nonelectoral debt which should be calculated with the assistance of expert legal advice. The difference between the nonelectoral debt limit and the net nonelectoral debt is the Borough's nonelectoral . borrowing capacity. Using the above simplified calculations, the Borough's nonelectoral borrowing capacity is estimated to be $409,000.

In cases where it is necessary for the Borough to incur a debt greater than the nonelectoral borrowing capacity this debt must be approved by the electors. There is no limit on the electoral debt.

OTHER METHODS OF FINANCING

A number of other financing options are open to municipalities in Pennsylvania. A summary of these methods and the types of projects which they are suitable for is discussed below.

PAY-AS-YOU-GO

This type of financing should be used for recurring capital improvements. Usually the least expensive method of doing this is by financing out of current appropriations by setting aside a portion of the municipal funds each year for the specified capital improvements. Most capital improvements based on a pay-as-you-go program will be supported by either general tax revenue, or by special taxes raised for a specific public works purpose. In general special tax levies can be used for shade tree care, lighting of streets and public places, permanent street improvements, f i re engines and apparatus, f i re house, municipal building or library (with favorable vote by the electorate).

-t18- Two kinds of funds can be established to accumulate money for I public works and capital expenditures. The first is the special fund which can be financed through gifts, donations, sale or lease of municipal property, or through special tax levies as outlined above. Boroughs may levy and collect annually, a special tax in addition to the general real estate tax, not to exceed two (2) mills to be used for the construction of municipal buildings only. This additional millage is permitted only by referendum and is temporary. The second type of fund that can be established is the capital reserve fund which is generally started using money transferred from the General Fund. Proceeds from sale or lease of property, or from any other general purpose source can be used. Capital Reserve Funds should be placed in approved interest bearing accounts or investments to increase the purchasing power of the fund

Service charges and special assessments are two other means of prov ding certain public works functions. These are applicable when it is possible to identify that portion of the population of the municipality which realize the benefits of a specific service. Tax exempt institutions such as schools, colleges, hospitals, and churches should contribute to the costs of the service provided. When compared with services provided out of tax revenues, the charges collected from tax- exempt institutions should tend to lower the costs for the average house holder.

REVOLVING FUNDS

This is a combination of pay-as-you-go and deferred payment financing. A revolving fund represents a pool of money set aside for permanent improvements or extensions of streets, sidewalks, water mains and/or sewer systems. The fund may be established either by a special tax levy or through a general obligation bond issue. When the revolving fund is used for a particular project, a schedule of repayment should be

-119- drawn up and payments put back into the fund. As in a capital reserve fund, the money in the revolving fund should be invested in an approved manner so that interest will benefit the municipality.

MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY

A municipal authority is a governmental unit which can independ- ently raise money for specified projects and not be restricted by the legal limits placed on municipal borrowing. Authorities finance revenue producing projects through the issue of bonds and are supported by the revenues generated by the completed project.

STATE AND FEDERAL FUNDING i The most sought after source of project funding is through state or federal funding sources. Three sources of governmental funds presently being used by Dallas Borough are State Highway Aid funds, Federal Revenue Sharing funds, and Community Development Block Grant funds.

SIX YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

Prior to developing a six year capital improvements program the proposed projects were subjectively ranked based on their relative urgency. The projects were also assigned a future time frame for completion based on the following time periods:

0 Short Range 1 980- 1983 0 Medium Range 1983- 1986 0 Long Range After 1986

-1 20- PRIORITY RANKTNG

The following is the suggested priority ranking of each of the major projects contained in the Comprehensive Plan.

PRIORITY PROJECT TIMING 1 Store Front Facade Improvements Short Range 2 Dallas Center Parking Lot Short Range 3 Toby Creek Transfer Channel Short Range 4 I n ters ect i on Improvements Memor i a 1 Highway and Main Street Short Range 5 Intersection Improvements Memori a 1 Highway and Pennsylvania Route 309 Short Range 6 New Borough Bui 1ding Medium Range 7 New Library Bui 1ding Long Range 8 Additional Summer Recreation Program at Dallas Elementary School Medium Range 9 Street Projects Short Range 10 Bike Path Medium Range

SIX YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVWNTS PLAN

The six year capital improvements plan for Dallas Borough is presented in Table V-4. Additional comments about some of the projects are presented below:

@ Store Front Facade Improvements - The Borough should strongly consider the use of Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance (LERTA) as an incentive to the property owners involved in the project. LERTA allows taxing authorities to exempt improvements to business property if such property is located in a deteriorated area. See the Appendix for more i nforma t i on.

-1 21 - TABLE V-4 S I X YEAR CAP I TAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN

POSS IBLE BOROUGH PROJECT METHODS OF F INANC IPIG RESPONSIBLE AGENCY _-COST SHARE 1. Store Front Facade Improvements Small Business Administration Private Businesses TBD’ None 502 loans2

2. Dallas Center Parking Lot Community Development Funds Borough $ 70,000 All

3. Intersection Improvements Memorial Highway Budget and PennDOT Borough and PennDOT 27,000 Partial Highway and Main Street Sa f e ty Imp rovemen t Program or New Incentives Program

4. Intersection Improvements Memorial Highway Budget and PennDOT Borough and PennDOT 61,000 Partial Highway and Pennsylvania Route Safety Improvement Program 309 or New Incentives Program

5. Dallas Municipal Center Farmers Home Administration Borough 936,000 All Loan3 (FmHA) I A ro 6. New Library Farmers Home Administration Nine Muni cipal iti es 71 7,000 Parti a 1 rv I Loan3 served by the Library

7. Additional Summer Recreation Operating Budget Borough 7,500 All Program at Dallas Elementary School

8. Street Projects Highway Budget Borough TBD A1 1

9. Bike Path Section 141 of the 1978 Borough TBD Partial Federal Aid Highway Act

10. Toby Creek Transfer Channel Cornunity Development Funds, Borough TBD Partial FmHA, Cornunity Facilities Grant/Loan Program 1 TBD - to be determined. 2 Small Business Administration, Section 502 Local Development Company Program, offers long-term low-interest loans to merchants for business expansion, store front renovation, interior modernization, purchase of store buildings, etc. 3 For rural areas and towns of up to 10,000 people. Low interest loans (5%) for a maximum term of 40 years are avai 1ab1 e.

w 0 Intersection Improvements and Street Projects - The Borough may want to consider implementing these projects, especially the street projects, in conjunction with normal street pavement maintenance and resurfacing.

0 Dallas Municipal Center - A $936,000, 40-year loan, at 5 percent interest would require an annual payment of $54,550. This amount is more than the Borough presently receives in real estate taxes a year. Also a loan of this magnitude exceeds the Borough's nonelectoral borrowing capacity of $409,000.

-1 23- I 1 1 I

APPENDIX A CRITIQUE OF EXISTING ZONING ORDINANCE TEXT i CRITIQUE OF EXISTING ZONING ORDINANCE TEXT

Article 2 2.05 - Excavations: A grading plan, drainage plan and erosion and sedimentatfon control plan should be required as a condition of issuing a permit. The excavation should be protected by an enclosing fence, particularly if steep slopes or standing water is involved. Excavator should be responsible for removing spilled materials from adjacent roads. 2.06 - Non-Conforming Uses: Criteria should be established to determine what constitutes discontinuance of a non-conforming use. Some official should be designated for determining when a non-conforming structure has been damaged 60 percent and hence cannot be replaced. Alternatively, to avoid having to make this judgment, the Ordinance could be amended to allow any damaged or destroyed structure to be rebuilt on its original foundations. A record of non-conforming uses should be kept by the Zoning Officer. The State Code requires such a record. Article 3 3.022 - Interpretation of Boundaries: The zoning officer should determine zoning district boundaries that are not clear, with appeal from his decision to the Zoning Hearing Board. Article 4 4.06 - Industrial Districts: Is the Borough prepared to enforce the performance standards in the event a developer fails to comply after his industry is in operation? Article 5 R-1 District - Mlnimum lot size when public sewage dlsposal and/or water supply are lacking seems low. A minimum of three quarters of an acre would be better if soil absorption Is good. R-2 District - For a "high density multiple dwelling project,'' what is the minimum sjte size, and under what conditions would the Zoning Hearing Board reduce the lot area per unit from 3,500 to 3,000 square feet?

A- 1 Article 6 6.02 - Animal Hospital: Animal holding pens should be in an enclosed structure. No disposal of animals on the premises should be permitted. 6.0422 - Size of Signs: The maximum size of a sign in the industrial district is too lenient, permitting an 800 square foot sign on a property with 200 feet of frontage. One times the frontage, rather than four times would be sufficient. 6.04431 - Maximum Height of Signs: Signs mounted on roofs or above the eave line of a building should be avoided. 6.08 - Drive-In Threatres: Space should be required on .the property to allow cars to line up approaching the ticket booth. 6.10 - Home Occupations: Are barber or beauty shops, or retail sales of any kind allowed as home occupations? Also, minimum off- street parking should be indicated. 6.11 - Hospitals: It is not clear whether hospitals treating persons with contagious diseases or other socially unacceptable conditions are not allowed, or allowed only if the property size exceeds 15 acres. 6.12 - Junk Yards: It may be difficult to apply the Ordinance retroactively to existing junk yards. 6.141 - Off-street Loading: It should be made clear that the off- street loading areas are not within an area designated for parking or access to parking. 6.142 - Off Street Parking: Two parking spaces should be required for each one family dwelling or each dwelling in a two-family building. Motels should provide one space for each sleeping room plus more spaces for bar or restaurant. 6.16 - Solid Waste Disposal Areas: This use is prohibited by Section 4.0635. 6.18 - Swimming Pools: Is it intended that pools that are assembled on the ground surface and capable of being dismantled be excluded from this section? 6.20 - Mobile Home Parks: The Ordinance does not indicate where mobile home parks may be permitted. Regulations on mobile home parks should be contained in the Borough's Subdivision Regulations.

A- 2 6.21 - Accessory Structures: Is it intended that accessory structures are not to be permitted in the B-1 zone district and that no height Ilmit for such structures should apply in the C-1 district? Article 8 8.311 - Public Notlce: Provisions should be included to require the posting of the area to be rezoned, advertising the hearing. The notices should state where and when copies of the proposed amendment will be available prior to the hearing for public view. 8.314 - Decisions of the Board: Testimony taken at a heardng should be stenographically recorded. The Board must hold a hearing within 60 days of the applicant's request for a hearing, or the decision will favor the applicant unless he agrees to an extension. ! Article 9 9.51 3 and 9.514 - Fees for Appeals and Zone Changes: These fees seem low. Perhaps the applicant could make a deposit of $100 against which the Borough would draw in meeting its expenses in connection with the hearing. Any money left over would be returned to the applicant, or he would be billed for excess costs . Article 10 10.22 - Action of Planning Commission on Amendments: Borough Council must give the Commission 30 days in which to review an amendment proposed by Council and make recomnendations. 10.23 - Public Hearing by Council: A proposed amendment should be submitted to the County Planning Commission at least 30 days before the hearing for review and comment. 10.24 - Action of Dallas Borough Council : Council must act on an amendment proposal not later than 90 days after the conclusion of the hearing.

It would be desirable to add a section to the Ordinance regulating commercial development, particularly such concerns as access from the highway, parking layout, storm water management, landscaping, trash removal , appearance of buildings , etc.

A- 3 c 1 Similar regulations to govern mu1 tiple dwelling projects involving several or many buildings should be written for use in the R-[2 zone district. Spacing between buildings, requirements for a home owners II association if condominiums are contemplated, and storm water management would be addressed. These regulations could be either in the zoning ordinance or contained in a separate planned residential development 1 ordinance.

A- 4 ~ I 1 I i I I i

I APPENDIX B 1 LOCAL ECONOMIC RIVITALIZATION TAX ASS I STANCE I I I 1 1 I 'I I I 1 1 LOCAL ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION TAX ASSISTANCE

LERTA

LERTA was established by the State Legislature in December 1977 to allow taxing authorities to exempt improvements to business property if such property is located in a deteriorated area.

WHY DO WE NEED LERTA?

A major deterrent to improving deteriorated business property has been that improvements result in higher property value and, therefore, result in higher local property taxes. The higher taxes often discourage business property owners from making improvements in bl ighted areas.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?

Any city, county, borough, incorporated town, township, institutional district, or school district having the authority to levy real property taxes can participate in this program.

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THE MUNICIPALITY?

Municipalities are authorized to affix the boundaries of the deteriorated area or areas. The municipality shall hold at least one pub1 ic hearing to determine the deteriorated area boundaries. Such criteria as unsafe, unsanitary, and overcrowded buildings; vacant over- grown and unsightly lots of ground; high incidence of unemployment, a high incidence of crime and delinquency; and other indicators of social and poverty conditions.

B- 1 WHAT IMPROVEMENTS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR A TAX EXEMPTION?

Improvements eligible for exemption include repair, construction or reconstruction, including a1 terations and additions, having the effect of rehabilitating a deteriorated property so that it becomes habitable or attains a higher standard of safety, health, economic use or amenity, or is brought into compliance with laws, ordinances or regulations governing such standards, Ordinary upkeep and maintenance shall not be deemed an improvement.

WHAT IS THE LOCAL TAX AUTHORITY PROCEDURE?

The local tax authority may provide for an exemption on the assessment attributable to the actual cost of the improvements, or up to any maximum cost uniformly established by the municipal governing body. Such maximum costs shall uniformly apply to all eligible deteriorated property within the local taxing authority jurisdiction.

The local tax authority shall establish an exemption schedule, not to exceed 10 years; and shall specify the portion of improvements to be exempted each year.

Each local tax authority should adopt an exemption request form on which eligible persons can apply for a tax exemption.

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF COMRCE?

The Department of Commerce's role is advisory in nature, providing technical assistance to municipalities and taxing authorities.

For more information contact Bureau of Management Services, Depart- ment of commerce, 6-36 South Office Building, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17120, telephone (71 7)-783-1790.

B- 2