ATHENS TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Table of Contents
Pase EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... ix .
CHAPTER 1 . INTRODUCTION
A . What is a Comprehensive Plan ...... 1. B . Purpose of a Comprehensive Plan ...... 3 . C . Comprehensive Planning Process ...... 3 . D . Legal Status of Comprehensive Plans ...... 4 .
CHAPTER 2 . MUNICIPAL HISTORY AND GENERAL BACKGROUND
A . History of Athens Township ...... 6 . B . Location of Township in Regional Setting ...... 9 . C . Administrative Organization ...... 10 .
CHAPTER 3 . DEMOGRAPHICS ANALYSIS
A . Past Growth Trends ...... 13 . B . Current Population Profile ...... 15 . 1. Age-Sex Distribution ...... 16 . 2 . Race ...... 19 . 3 . Marital Status ...... 20 . 4 . Household and Family Characteristics .. 21 . 5 . Family and Household Income ...... 22 . 6 . Education ...... 24 . C . Population Projection (20 years) ...... 25 . D . Implications for Development Plan ...... 26 . i CHAPTER 4 . ECONOMIC ANALYSIS Paae A . Regional Economy ...... 28 . B . Employers and Economic Base ...... 28 . C . Banking ...... 29 . D . Local Economy and Work Force ...... 32 . E . Employment Forecasts...... 35 . F . Township Fiscal Analysis ...... 40 .
CHAPTER 5 .
COMMUNITY FACILITIES & SERVICES
... A . Government Facilities and Services ...... 44 . 1. Township Government ...... 44 . 2 . County Government ...... 46 . B . Police Protection ...... 47 . C . Fire Protection ...... 47 . D . Emergency Management Coordinator ...... 48 . E . Emergency Medical Services ...... 48 . 1 . Greater Valley EMS Ambulance Service .. 48 . 2 . Guthrie EMS Service ...... 49 . F . Educational Facilities ...... 49 . 1 . Public and Private Schools (K-12) ..... 49 . 2 . Post-Secondary Opportunities ...... 51 . 3 . Vocational-Technical Training ...... 51 . .a. 4 . Employment Education ...... 51 . 5 . Other Adult Education & Career Training 52 . G . Social Services ...... 52 . H . Health Care ...... 53 . 1 . Guthrie Healthcare System ...... 53 . 2 . Memorial Hospital ...... 55 . 3 . Other Long-Term Care Options ...... 55 . I . Parks. Recreational Activities & Cultural Facilities ...... 55 . 1. Round Top Park ...... 55 . 2 . Other Facilities 61 Activities ...... 56 . 3 . Cultural Facilities ...... 58 . ii CHAPTER 6 .
PUBLIC UTILITIES Paae
A . Water Supply Facilities ...... 59 . 1 . Public Water Supply ...... 59 . 2 . Private. On-Site Water Supplies ...... 60 . B . Sewage Facilities ...... 61. 1 . Public Sewer System ...... 61 . 2 . Private. On-Site Sewage Facilities .... 63 . C . Stormwater Facilities and Management ...... 64 . D . Solid Waste Management ...... 65 . E . Electric & Natural-Gas Utilities ...... 66 . 1 . Electric Service ...... 66 . 2 . Natural Gas Service ...... 67 . F . Cable Service ...... 67 .
CHAPTER 7 . LAND USE
A . Physical Features ...... 68 . 1 . Topography ...... 68 . 2 . Soils ...... 70 . 3 . Floodplains and Wetlands ...... 74 . 4 . Natural Resources ...... 75 . B . Existing Land Uses ...... 75 . 1 . Residential ...... 75 . 2 . Commercial & Industrial ...... 77 . 3 . Public/Semi-Public ...... 77 . 4 . Agriculture ...... 78 . 5 . Forest/Woodland ...... 79 . 6 . Streets and Railroads ...... 80 . 7 . Other Undeveloped Lands SI Water ...... 80 . C . Future Land Use Needs ...... 83 .
iii
. CHAPTER 8 .
HOUSING Pase
A . Housing Profile ...... 84 . B . Housing Conditions ...... 88 . C . Housing Needs Assessment ...... 91. D . Housing and Building Codes ...... 94 .
CHAPTER 9 . TRANSPORTATION
A . Road and Highway Transportation Network ...... 95 . 1 . Functional Classification ...... 95 . 2 . Ownership/Responsibility ...... 99 . 3 . Physical Conditions ...... 99 . 4 . Township Bridges ...... 102 . 5 . County Bridges ...... 103 . B . Traffic Analysis ...... 103 . 1 . Circulation Patterns ...... 103 . 2 . Problem Areas ...... 104 . C . Future Highway Needs and Plans ...... 106 . 1 . Township Roads ...... 106 . 2 . State Routes ...... 107 . D . Public Transit Services ...... 108 . 1 . Endless Mountains Transportation Authority ...... 108 . 2 . Commercial Bus Service ...... 109 . E . Air Service ...... 110 . F . Rail Service ...... 110 .
iv CHAPTER 10
DEVELOPMENT PLAN Paae A . Statement of Community Development Objectives . 112 . B . Development Suitabilities f Limitations ...... 113 . 1 . Growth Stimuli ...... 113 . 2 . Growth Limitations ...... 115 . C . General Goals and Objectives ...... 116 .
1 . Natural Features f Resources ...... 116. 2 . Noise. Air 61 Electromagnetic Field Pollution ...... 117. 3 . Public Utilities ...... 117. 4 . Public Safetyj-Emergency Services ..... 117. 5 . Property Rights 61 Values ...... 118. 6 . Transportation ...... 118. 7 . Economics ...... 118. 8 . Housing ...... 119. 9 . Recreation ...... 119. 10 . Historic f Cultural Programs ...... 119. 11 . Government f Education ...... 119. 12 . Intergovernmental Cooperation ...... 119. D . Future Growth Policies 61 Plan Recommendations . 120 . E . Future Land Use Planning Concepts ...... 130 . 1 . General Concepts ...... 130 . 2 . Land Use Recommendations ...... 131 . F . Effect on Adjacent Municipalities ...... 134 . G . Interrelationship of Plan Components ...... 136 .
CHAPTER 11 .
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
A . Land Use Control Regulation Recommendations ... 137 . B . Priorities and Implementation Schedule ...... 138 . 1 . Short-Term Strategies .Limited Budget Impact ...... 139 . 2 . Short-Term Strategies .Budget Impact 141 . 3 . Long-Term Strategies .Limited Budget Impact ...... 143 . 4 . Long-Term Strategies .Budget Impact . 145 . Paae C . Capital Improvements Program Recommendations .. 147 . D . Project Funding Options ...... 149 .
RESOLUTION OF ADOPTION ...... 152 .
APPENDICES A . Major Regional Employers ...... A-1 B . Athens Township Businesses ...... B-1 C . Athens Township Condensed Audit Reports 1982. 1984. 1986. 1988. 1990 and 1991 ...... C-1 D . Education (Public and Private - K through 12) and Libraries ...... D-1 E . Colleges and Adult Education ...... E-1 F . Social Services ...... F-1 G . Long-Term Health Care ...... G-1 H . Land Use Survey Rating Form & Criteria ...... H-1 I . Roadway Condition Rating Form ...... 1-1
Graph 1 . Household Income By Zip Code (1989) ...... 36 . Graph 2 . Earned Income Tax Collected (1980-1990) .. 37 .
LISTING OF MAPS Map 1 . Township Location ...... 12 . Map 2 . Five-County Economic Region ...... 30 . Map 3 . Public Water Service Areas ...... 60-A Map 4 . Public & Package Sewage Treatment Service Areas ...... 63-A Map 5 . Slope ...... 69-A Map 6 . Soils ...... 70-A Map 7 . Agricultural Soils ...... 72-A Map 8 . Floodplains and Wetlands ...... 74-A Map 9 . Existing Land Use ...... 80-A Map 10 . Future Land Use Recommendations ...... 133-A
vi
P'.. .' LISTING OF TABLES Paae Table 1. Athens Township & Bradford County Popula- tion (1950-1990) ...... 13. Table 2. Valley Region Population Growth (1950-1990) . 14. Table 3A. Athens Township Age-Sex Distribution - 1980 . 16. Table 3B. Athens Township Age-Sex Distribution - 1990 . 16. Table 3C. Athens Township Age-Sex Distribution Compar- ison (1980 and 1990) ...... 17. Table 3D. Athens Township Age-Sex Distribution Compar- ison (1970, 1980, 1990) ...... 17. Table 4. Bradford County Age Characteristic Project- ions (1980-2000) ...... 19. Table 5. Athens Township Population by Race (1970, 1980-,-and 1990) ...... 20. Table 6. Athens Township Household and Family Charact- eristics (1980 and 1990) ...... 21. Table 7. Athens Township Family and Household Income (1970, 1980 and 1990) ...... 22. Table 8. Athens Township Income Status - 1980 ...... 23. Table 9. Athens Township Poverty Status, Low-Moderate Status, & Section 8 Eligibility (1980 and 1990) ...... 23. Table 10. Years of School Completed - Athens Township Residents over 25 Years of Age - (1970, 1980 & 1990) ...... 24. Table 11. Athens Township Population Projections to 2000 ...... e...... 25. Table 12. Athens Township Population Projections to 2010 ...... 26. Table 13. Bradford County Financial Institutions - Total Deposits - 1981 to 1990 ...... 29. Table 14. Athens Township Area Bank Deposits - 1989 ... 31. Table 15. Bradford County Wage & Salary Rates - 1991 .. 33. Table 16. Wage Rates for Selected Positions - 1990 .... 33. Table 17. Athens Township Area Occupational Classifi- cations - 1991 ...... 34. Table 18. Athens Township Income Distribution (1969- 1990) & Income Projections - 1995 ...... 35. Table 19. Social Security Receipts by Zip Code - 1988 . 39. Table 20. Athens Township Major Expenditures (1982-1990) ...... 41. Table 21. Athens Township Major Receipts (1982-1990) .. 42. Table 22. Athens Township Cash & Investments (1982-1990) ...... 43. Table 23. Percent of Slope ...... 69. Table 24. Athens Township Land Use - 1967 ...... 81. Table 25. Athens Township Land Use - 1991 ...... 82.
vii Pase Table 26. Athens Township Future Land Use Needs (1992-2010) ...... 83. Table 27. Athens Township Housing Characteristics (1990) 84. Table 28. Valley Area Housing Characteristics Compar- ison (1990) ...... 85. Table 29. Athens Township Housing Unit Comparison (1970, 1980, and 1990) ...... 86. Table 30. Athens Township Single Family Home Growth (1984-1990) ...... 87. Table 31. Athens Township - Condition of Housing Units - 1991 ...... 88. Table 32. Athens Township - Condition of Mobile Homes - 1991 ...... 89. Table 33. Athens Township - Value of Owner-Occupied Housing Units- & Land -1990 ...... 89. Table 34. Athens Township - Value of Mobile Homes - 1991 ...... 90. Table 35. Rental-Assisted Housing in Bradford County - 1992 ...... 91. Table 36. Athens Township - Contract Rent for Renter- Occupied Housing Units - 1990 ...... 93. Table 37. Road Classification Descriptions ...... 96. Table 38. Roadway Functional Classifications ...... 97. Table 39. Roadway Surface Conditions ...... 100. Table 40. Athens Township Road & Highway Projects (1992-1995) ...... 106. Table 41. PADOT Road & Highway Projects - Athens Town- ship (1990-2002) ...... 107. Table 42. Other PADOT Road & Highway Projects - Athens Township (1991-1992) ...... 108. Table 43. Comparison of Existing & Proposed Land Use Allocations ...... 134. Table 44. Land Use Control Policies & Regulations of Adjacent Municipalities ...... 135. Table 45. Athens Township Capital Improvements Project Recommendations ...... 148.
viii The eleven chapters of this comprehensive plan provide a written and graphic description and analysis of present conditions in the Township and conclude with future growth policies, recommen- dations and strategies to address identified problems and protect the Township's many assets for the future. A Comprehensive Plan Preparation Committee, made up of Township Supervisors, members of the Township Planning Commission and numerous citizens at large, assisted in the collection of background information and in the development of community goals and objectives, and guided the overall planning process. The various elements -of the Plan are interrelated from beginning to end. The background chapters (1-9) evaluate current conditions and land uses in the Township; the goals (Chapter 10) establish broad desires regarding the type and intensity of future development desired in the community; the objective statements (following the goals in Chapter 10) describe in more detail what must be done to meet each goal: and the recommendations (also in Chapter 10) illustrate specific ways in which the goals may be achieved. Chapter 11 identifies specific short and long term strategies which could be used to implement the recommendations. In other words, the goal statements represent what the Township would like to see accomplished in the future; the objectives explain how each goal can be met, the recommendations include specific suggestions for achieving each goal: and the implementa- tion strategies propose a timetable for addressing the recommenda- tions. The intent throughout the Plan is to provide for future growth in the community in such a way that will maintain the existing pleasant environment and quality of life. The following paragraphs provide additional detail regarding each of the chapters of this Plan. Chapter 1 provides on overview of the planning process. The importance of public input in the planning process and the legal status of the plan are explained. In general, although the plan provides a basis for land use control regulations (particularly zoning regulations), the plan itself is not an ordinance and has limited legal authority. Athens Townshipls decision to develop its own plan despite the existence of a Master Plan prepared for the Valley Region in 1968 and a Comprehensive Plan adopted by Bradford County in 1982 is also reviewed in this chapter.
Chapters 2-9 survey existing conditions in Athens Township and identify concerns and opportunities. A brief history of the Township provided in Chapter 2 notes that as early as 1650 the ix Township's location at the confluence of the Susquehanna and Chemung Rivers, and its rich valley soils and timbered slopes had established it as a strategic and much sought after site by Indians, Continental Army troops and settlers. Chapters 3 and 4 provide an analysis of the area's demo- graphics and economics, respectively. In general, Census data included in Chapter 3 shows that the Township's growth in the 1980's slowed somewhat after significant increases between 1960 and 1980. Census figures also showed that the composition of the Township's population has aged considerably in the past 20 years, from a median age of 28 in 1970 to 35.5 in 1990. Current economic conditions in the Township and in the five-County economic area are detailed in Chapter 4, as are forecasts for employment in the future.
The Plan, in Chapters 5 and 6, finds community facilities and services, and public utilit-ies within the Township to be quite extensive. Government facilities, municipal police protection, volunteer fire protection, emergency medical services, educational facilities and opportunities, health care, and parks, recreational and cultural activities are detailed in Chapter 5. Water supply and sewage facilities, as well as stormwater management, solid waste management, and electric and natural gas utilities are discussed in Chapter 6. The Township's existing land uses are discussed in Chapter 7 of the Plan. The major existing land use in the Township is agriculture; approximately 46% of the total land area is utilized for this purpose. Woodland is the second largest land use, accounting for just over 37% of the municipality's acreage. Residential, commercial/industrial and public/semi-public land uses, and streets and railroads added together make up slightly more than 12% of the existing land uses.
Chapter 8 provides an assessment of the Township's housing profile. This Chapter shows that most housing units in the Township are conventional single family homes. Just over 32% of all of the housing units in the municipality are mobile homes and there are a number of multi-family dwellings or apartment complexes; approximately 6% of the total housing units. Overall housing conditions in the Township are good. The Township's transportation system is discussed in Chapter 9. The functional classification of each roadway in the Township is established and the condition of each roadway is assessed. Circulation and traffic patterns are analyzed and problem areas identified. Anticipated municipal and State highway projects are listed and other forms of public transit, and air and rail service are discussed.
Chapter 10 is the Township's development plan. It identifies
X growth stimuli and limitations for the Township and presents goals and objectives regarding future development of the community. Future growth policies and specific recommendations for achieving the identified goals are also detailed. Specific land use concepts and recommendations are presented and acreage allocations are proposed for each land use category for the next 15-20 years. > Chapter 11 proposes short and long-term implementation strategies to fulfill the goals and objectives itemized in Chapter 10. In addition to setting forth a suggested timetable for addressing the plan's recommendations, responsibilities for addressing the strategies are assigned to the applicable municipal agency, group, personnel or individual. Capital Improvements Programming is also reviewed and various project funding options are presented. And, to assist the reader in visualizing the information presented, including existing- and recommended future land uses, a total of ten (10) maps have been incorporated into the text of the Plan. They can be found locatedthroughout the document, generally in proximity to the information they explain.
xi CHAPTER 1.
INTRODUCTION
A. WHAT IS A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN? A Comprehensive Plan is a document stating basic policies designed to guide the growth of a community. This plan examines how the past has led to the present and outlines the community's goals and aspirations for the future and develops practical strategies to achieve those goals. In this way a plan provides a framework for municipal decision-making which supports community goals while focusing attention on the correction of existing problems where possible. A Comprehensive Plan consists of maps, charts and text which make recommendations to manage, control and guide growth, while providing protection of special areas and community assets. The legal authority to undertake the preparation of a Compre- hensive Plan is provided to the State's municipalities through the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (Act 247 of 1968, as amended). This legislation provides an outline of what is required in such a Plan and how it should be developed. The Planning Code states that the over-riding intent of a Comprehensive Plan should be.. . to promote the safety, health, and morals; to accomplish coordinated development; to provide for the general welfare by guiding and protecting amenity, convenience, future governmental, economic, practical and social and cultural facilities, development and growth, as well as the improvement of governmental processes and functions; to guide uses of land and structures, type and location of streets, public grounds and other facilities; to promote the conservation of energy through the use of planning practices and to promote the effective utilization of renewable energy sources; and to permit municipalities to minimize such problems as may presently exist or which may be foreseen.Il In Pennsylvania, Comprehensive Plans have been adopted by many of the Statels Boroughs and some of its Townships. Recent revisions to the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code now require all Counties to have a comprehensive plan, municipal planning remains optional. Athens Township is part of the Valley Region which also consists of Athens Borough, Sayre Borough, and South Waverly Borough in Pennsylvania, and the Town of Barton and the Village of Waverly in New York'State. A Master Plan for the Valley Region was prepared in 1968. Although Athens Borough prepared a municipal
1 Comprehensive Plan in 1975 and adopted revisions to that Plan in 1991, no other individual municipal plans or updates of the 1968 plan have been developed. Bradford County prepared a County-wide Plan in 1971, which was updated in 1982. Ideally, plans should be reviewed and updated every five years or when appropriate. Although periodic reviews are not specifically required by the Planning Code, they are necessary if a plan is to continue to closely reflect current needs and address changing trends. The Valley Region Master Plan includes a general discussion of the future development of Athens Township as part of the Valley Region. This 1968 plan addressed a wide range of planning components and identified many factors contributing to the quality of future growth in the Valley. To continue this work on a Township level, the Supervisors authorized the Planning Commission in 1989 to develop a Comprehensive Plan for the Township. The Comprehensive Plan for Athens Township was developed based on the guidelines established in the Planning Code and includes the following basic elements.
1. A statement of community development goals and objectives i
2. A land use plan, including provisions to guide the amount, intensity, character and timing of land use and the preservation of special areas and types of land uses;
3. A plan to meet the housing needs of present residents and the accommodation of anticipated future residents;
4. A plan for the movement of people and goods;
5. A plan for community facilities and utilities;
6. A statement of the interrelationships among the various plan components;
7. A discussion of short and long term implementation strategies and their budgetary impacts; and 8. A statement indicating the relationship of the existing and proposed development of the municipality to the region. Once enacted, a community must refer to the plan often to use it effectively. A good plan does not just sit on a shelf. The plan should provide a foundation for municipal decision-making, and should function as a reference document for all interested parties, including businesses or industries seeking a place to locate or relocate. According to the Municipalities Planning Code, the County planning agency, contiguous municipalities, and affected school districts must be given an opportunity to review the
2 Comprehensive Plan prior to its formal adoption to ensure consistency with their plans and policies. This also encourages the County and nearby municipalities to be aware of Athens Township's concerns and goals. Likewise, as the document is revised in later years, adjacent municipalities and school districts should be made aware of the revisions.
B. PURPOSE OF A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN A comprehensive plan provides a Itsnapshot"of a community and a clear statement of how its governing body and residents would like to see it develop in the future. It expresses a community's desires for the coming years by providing a written portrait of the hopeful planned future. If a community does not identify what it would like to see in the future, direction will be lost, thereby possibly contributing to a loss-inthe community's quality of life. _- In addition to establishing policies to help preserve the best existing features of a community, a comprehensive plan is also the first step in directing the location and intensity of the municipality's future growth and development. For this reason, it is especially critical to adopt a Comprehensive Plan prior to establishing land use control regulations. Where a plan establishes what is needed and how it can be achieved, land use regulations set forth the specific provisionsto implement the plan recommendations and realize the plan's goals. A community's land use recommendations, as stated in the Comprehensive Plan, are the primary means of accommodating population, commercial, industrial, utility and other growth. Since comprehensive plans typically project growth over a 15-20 year period, they are an excellent basis for developing local land use control regulations, such as zoning and/or subdivision ordinances. Zoning and Subdivision laws first came into effect in this 0 century. In the past, the protection of land and related natural resources, like water, was not given a high priority because there seemed to be limitless supplies of farmland, woodland, and water resources available. Now it is clear that careless management of these resources can have far ranging consequences. In worst cases, prime farmland can be lost under concrete and asphalt, woodland poorly managed so that large amounts of topsoil are lost to erosion, and poor development practices can lead to falling groundwater tables, water pollution and well or sewage system failures. Without land use controls, a community can lose many of the natural areas which were once available for hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities.
C. COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING PROCESS The first step in the comprehensive planning process is an I
3 examination of existing conditions in the Township. The Munic- ipalities Planning Code recommends a thorough review of existing conditions before the preparation of a comprehensive plan. Exist- ing problems must be identified, from the serious, such as septic system failures and well water contamination, to less serious, but still troublesome problems, like inadequate traffic circulation patterns and movements. In addition to an identification of existing problems, limitations to development such as poor soils, steep slopes and flood plains must be identified. Fragile and special resource areas, such as prime farm lands, must be located. These land areas must be mapped after they are identified so they can be considered during the development of the municipality's land use policies and implementing strategies. Growth pressures must be identified and addressed and a response to those pressures -must be incorporated in the land use recommendations. The land use goals must also consider the environmental limits to development and most importantly, the Township's goals and objectives for the future. The Township's goals and objectives must then be linked to specific recommendations for achieving the desired end results. Ultimately, these recommendations become molded into an implementation strategy setting forth a schedule for both short and long range achievement of the recommendations. Background research and some analysis for the Athens Township Plan was partially developed by local residents. Committees, made up of community citizens and members of the Township Planning Commission, were organized to address various aspects of the Plan's background. The committees collected and evaluated information for over a year. Upon completion of the committees' work, -a Comprehensive Plan Preparation Committee consisting of Township Supervisors, Planning Commission members and residents was formed. This Committee directed the development of the final plan document.
D. LEGAL STATUS OF COMPREHENSIVE PLANS According to the Municipalities Planning Code, after the adoption of a comprehensive plan, the municipal governing body (and its agencies and departments) must request municipal planning agency review before it takes action on certain types of activ- ities. Each of the following proposed activities must be reviewed by the Township Planning Commission to determine the activity's consistency with the objectives of the municipal Comprehensive Plan before action is taken by the Township Supervisors. 1. the location, opening, vacation, extension, widening, narrowing or enlargement of any street, public ground, ...... 4 pierhead or watercourse; 2. the location, erection, demolition, removal or sale of any public structure located within the municipality; 3. the adoption, amendment or repeal of an official map, subdivision and land development ordinance, zoning ordinance or provisions for planned residential development, or capital improvements program (Capital Improvement Programming is discussed in Chapter 11 of this Plan); or 4. the construction, extension or abandonment of any water line, sewer line or sewage treatment facility. Despite this mandated review requirement, the Planning Code also provides that an action taken by a municipal governing body can not be declared invalid If.onthe basis that such action is inconsistent with, or fails to comply with, the provisions of the Comprehensive Plantf.
5 CHAPTER 2.
MUNICIPAL HISTORY AND GENERAL BACKGROUND
A. HISTORY OF ATHENS TOWNSHIP The earliest recorded history of the Township begins in the early 17th century when the first white settler entered what was to become Athens Township. Etienne Brule, interpreter for Samuel de Champlain, arrived at Carantouan (Spanish Hill), home to 4,000 Susquehannock Indians in 1615. His was the only recorded white presence until the mid 1700's.
In about 1650, the Iroquois League of Nations overpowered the Susquehannock Indians. The Cayuga Tribe of the Iroquois settled the strategic site of Diahoga- (Tioga Point, later Athens Borough) after the victory. They lived in the area for nearly 130 years and a guarded the Iroquois Nation's "southern door'' until defeated in 1779 by General John Sullivan's 5,000 troops. General Sullivan's troops made up one third of George Washington's Continental Army. Both Connecticut and Pennsylvania interests had made plans to settle the area before General Sullivan's campaign. In 1754 the Susquehanna Company bought a large tract of land from the Iroquois Nation. This tract included the future Athens Township. The first white settlers arrived in 1777 and in 1784 Matthias Hollenback set up a trading post. The Township was surveyed in 1786 and legally established by the court in 1797. The rich bounty of the land drew new pioneers and population growth continued. Early settlers were mainly subsistence and cash crop farmers; a short while later timber harvesting followed. A gristmill and also a sawmill were erected on Cayuta Creek in 1787, a and from these two mills Milltown received it's name. Goods were rafted down the Susquehanna River to market. The first road was opened in 1790 and it extended south to Wysox. The road system was expanded and improved so that by 1810 a stagecoach route was established with a stop in Athens.
A large portion of the Township was lost when 38 square miles of its western portion was taken to establish Ridgebury Township in 1818. Litchfield Township was formed from the eastern portion of Athens Township in 1821. Although the Village of Athens was laid out when the Township was first surveyed, it was not incorporated as a separate municipality until 1831. South Waverly was incorporated in 1878 and Sayre in 1891. Since then, the boundaries of Athens Township have remained the same.
6 Two important firsts for Bradford County occurred about this time in the Township. Athens Academy, the first institution of higher learning opened in 1814. It was here that Stephen Foster penned his first successful work. The first river bridge in the County was opened in 1820 and spanned the Chemung River. The Indians always valued the strategic location of Athens Township, and later, early developers recognized the importance of the natural geographic cross roads created by the confluence of the Susquehanna and Chemung Rivers. This led to the opening, in 1854, of the North Branch Canal. In 1870 Sayre was laid out as a railroad town to service the Lehigh Valley Railroad yard complex. Farm life and the crops raised or produced were a very important aspect of the history of the region during the late 19th century and early 20th century. For example, from about 1880 until 1928, cigarleaf tobacco was grown on some of the river flats up and down the Valley and was sold--locallyto cigar factories in Athens and Waverly. Gradually, dairying replaced tobacco farming as a more economically viable activity and one that was far less demanding of the area's soil. At the turn of the century, buckwheat was grown on many of the hill farms. Because seed was sown by hand, a great deal of the crop could be grown on very steep ground, much of it too steep for today's planting and harvesting machinery. Bradford County was the buckwheat capital of the world in the early 1900's. Potatoes were grown in the western part of the Township and many wagonloads were brought into the valley towns for sale to area residents. Even though dairying was gaining popularity during this period, individual dairies remained small until the early 1920's when electricity became available to the valley farms. The REA further extended electric service to the outlying areas of the Township in the 1930's. Oxen, horses and mules provided power on the farms and in these areas until tractors became practical in the 1920's. Rubber tired tractors were first introduced in the late 1930's. Silos for fodder storage were introduced in the area before 1920. The first ones were of wooden construction and were quite small by today's standards.
Milk was delivered to local creameries or milk stations in 40 quart cans. Today it is collected at the farm from bulk tanks in the milk house, usually every other day. Most farms also had flocks of chickens. Eggs and butter were often traded for groceries and supplies in area stores. Some of the larger egg producers however belonged to a cooperative that 7 marketed the eggs for them. From 1908 to 1933, the Interstate Fair was held in East Athens in the Township. This was a popular event which drew large crowds of people from a wide area. By 1936 though, Max Cohen Auto Parts was occupying the fair grounds and was advertising "20 acres of auto parts'', the largest operation of its kind for miles in any direction. In West Athens, on the Thurston farm, a pump station for the United States Pipeline Company operated from the early 1890's until World War I. Two pipes, a 5 inch and a 6 inch line, transported crude oil and kerosene from the oil fields in McKean County to Marcus Hook, PA, just south of Philadelphia, where it was loaded onto tankers and shipped to Europe. With the unrest in Europe caused by World War I, the oil market was lost and the pipes were removed in the mid 1920's. U.S. Route 220 now runs directly through the pump station site. Spring water was bottled at the Diamond Spring Farm in the early part of the 20th century. This enterprise was located on the west side of the Chemung River, south of the old Tozer's Bridge on the present Minard Farm. The owner/operator, a Mr. Teottle, delivered to local homes. Also during the 1920's, eel racks were located in the rivers to supply local markets. Rural Free Delivery first began in this country around 1900 and by 1917, most of the U.S. was being served by rural routes. As recently as the early 19601s,Athens Township was served by six post offices. They were Athens, Sayre, Waverly, Milan, Wilawana and Chemung. Today Athens, Sayre, and Milan cover the entire Township. Telephone lines cover all of the Township and service is provided from the Sayre office of GTE. A number of the lines were installed underground to eliminate a great deal of the weather- related problems that often plague overhead utility lines. Some of the early rural lines were owned and maintained by the farmers or other individuals that they served. The Township road system remained rather primitive during the early 190O1s, with limited drainage facilities and wooden creek bridges. Gradual improvement began in the late 1920's and early 1930's. In 1905 however, a macadam road was constructed from Milan to Athens. Other parts of the State highway system developed as Pennsylvania took over some of the more heavily traveled Township roads. Governor Pinchot (1923-27 & 1931-35) improved farm to market roads all over the State, including many in Bradford County and Athens Township. Thus, the main traffic routes in the Township were upgraded early.
8 In 1947, the Township bought its first truck, and the first power grader was purchased in 1953. In 1956, the community bought its first four wheel drive truck with a plow. 1960 saw the addition of two larger, heavier dump trucks with plows. This schedule of purchases illustrates the road development and maintenance program, which resulted in increased residential and commercial growth. The Valley Airport, now known as the Blue Swan, had its beginnings in the 1920's as a group-owned facility. Originally, the land was leased, but later on, people from Blue Swan Mill obtained title to the tract. Eventually, the land was deeded to Sayre Borough with the understanding that it remain an airport. In the 1950's and 1960's, land became available for development along Elmira Street. The present Ames Plaza buildings were constructed in 1968 for Pages Department Store and later on Fays Drug Store. Nearly simultaneously, the Valley Shopping Plaza was developed for Giants, Rite Aid and Grand Union. A drive-in 0 movie theater was also created earlier in the 1950's and A & W Root Beer, now Beeman's, appeared in the 1960's. During the. last 30 years, so many retail outlets have appeared on Elmira Street that only 40% of the route's frontage now remains in a residential or undeveloped status. Pupils were transported to a new 4 room school on Wolcott Hollow Road as early as 1937 when the viaduct at Morley's crossing was built, and Greens Landing school was closed because of highway acquisition. The McDuffee Street school, later known as the Helen Minier school, was originally built in 1916. It was enlarged twice as more residents arrived and more transportation was provided. Consolidation proceeded gradually throughout the Township. Later on, when the population increased considerably, Athens Township, joined with the Athens Area School System. Public utilities expanded coverage in areas where population density and commercial/industrial development occurred throughout the past 100 years.
B. LOCATION OF TOWNSHIP IN REGIONAL SETTING Athens Township is located in northcentral Bradford County. Both Athens Township and Bradford County border New York state and lie slightly east of central Pennsylvania. According to the 1990 Census, the Township contains 43.8 square miles (approximately 28,032 acres) and is bordered to the west by Ridgebury Township, to the east by Litchfield Township, and to the south by Smithfield and Ulster and Sheshequin Townships all in Bradford County. Chemung and Tioga Counties, both in New York state lie north of Athens Township. Athens, Sayre and South Waverly Boroughs were created from interior portions of Athens Township in the nineteenth
9 century. (See Map 1.) The best access to the Township is via U.S. Route 220 from the south and New York State Route 17 from the east and west. Route 17 gives easy access to Steuben, Chemung, Tioga and Broome Counties in New York state, and points further east and west. The Township is served by state collector routes running east and west, and north and south highways on both the east and west banks of the Susquehanna and Chemung Rivers. Numerous Township roads and streets criss-cross the area as well. (See Chapter 9 for additional details regarding the Township's transportation network. ) Municipalities in the Valley Region have much in common and are linked by a common industrial and social infrastructure. The economic links within the five-county region are discussed in the Chapter 4. -. .
C. ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION Athens Township is a Second Class Township and is subject to the provisions of the Second Class Township Code. The Township government consists of three (3) Supervisors, elected by the residents of the municipality to serve as the official governing body; five (5) Planning Commission members, appointed by the Supervisors to serve as an advisory body: a Township Secretary, also appointed by the governing body: a 10-member appointed Sewer Authority: a 5-member appointed Park Commission; an elected Real Estate Tax Collector; 3 elected Auditors: an elected Tax Assessor; and an appointed Earned Income Tax Collector. Petitions have been circulating recently to increase the number of elected Supervisors in the Township from three to five. If a sufficient number of Township signatures are obtained, it is expected that a referendum question will be placed on the ballot in the November General Election asking the voters to register their opinion on the subject. According to the State Association of Township Supervisors, if the voters agree that two additional Supervisors are needed, the two new members of the Board would be elected in the 1993 municipal election. The five-member would then begin to serve in January 1994. If the voters reject the referendum however, the question can not be asked for another three years. The Township established a municipal police force in 1964. The force has grown from lman to its current complement of a full time Police Chief overseeing 5 full-time and 3 part-time officers. The department operates 24 hours a day and has a complement of 3 patrol cars which travel the 67 miles of Township roads. Last year the Athens police force responded to over 2,300 complaints and patrolled over 60,000 miles.
10 Athens Township is served by a volunteer fire department with fire stations located on Herrick Avenue in the central segment of the community and on Kirby Street in East Athens. Both stations are equipped with at least one water tanker truck and one fire engine. In addition, the Herrick Avenue station has two vehicles for moving equipment, and a boat and motor for water rescues. Like the police department, the fire stations provide 24 hour coverage. The Township provides 80% of the fire company's operating budget and the 40 volunteer firemen provide the balance of the needed funds through fundraising activities. (Details regarding the community's administration, and public services and facilities can be found in Chapter 5.)
11 BRADFORD COUNTY 1 LOCATION MAP
MAP 1 12 CHAPTER 3. I I DEMOGRAPHICS ANALYSIS
A. PAST GROWTH TRENDS
From 1950 to 1980, the population of Athens Township grew quickly, gaining more than 20% each decade according to U.S. Census figures. This growth rate was over five times as fast as the County growth rate for the same 30 year period. The growth spurt appears however to have ended for the present time. The Township and the County both lost population between 1980 and 1990 according to the most recent U.S. Census results. These losses were not substantial, -3.1% or just less than 2,000 persons for the County, and -4.8% or 239 people for -the Township, but they could be potentially significant, depending on how the long-range trend develops. Other Pennsylvania Townships and Boroughs within the 0 Valley Region planning area exhibited more substantial population losses. Table 1 below summarizes growth trends for Athens Township, as compared with Bradford County, over the most recent 40 year period. Table 1
Athens Township and Bradford County Population 1950-1990
Athens Township Bradford County Population % Chanae Powlation % Chanse I 1950 2,268 - 51,722 -
~ 1960 2 ,882 27.1 54 ,925 6.2
~ 1970 4 ,007 39.0 57,962 5.5
1980 4,994 24.6 62 ,919 8.6
1990 4 ,755 -4.8 60 ,967 -3.1
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, 1990 Pennsylvania Municipal Population, PA State Data Center, 1991.
Since the Valley Region shares many of the same employers and functions in many ways as an integrated economic district, an examination of the population growth of Athens Township within the context of the Valley as a whole is illustrative. Athens Township
13 has grown more quickly than the other municipalities in the Valley, possibly because prime development land was, and is, available within the Township, close to industry, excellent medical care, and a wide range of services. Table 2 contrasts the past growth rate of Athens Township with other municipalities in the Valley as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau. (The Census Bureau may have undercounted the 1990 population though, in view of the fact that its 1986 projection for the community anticipated an increase of 4.3% for 1990 over the 1980 population. As a result of this projection, the identified population losses were not expected and they have been questioned by the Township officials.)
Table 2 Valley Region Population Growth 1950-1990
_. 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 a Pop . Pop . Pop . Pop . Pop . % % % % % Municipality Chancre Chancre Chancre Chancre Qlmrre
Athens Borough, PA 4,430 4 ,515 4,173 3 ,622 3,468 (--I 1.9 -7.6 -13 .2 -4.3
I Litchf ield Twp. ,PA 713 786 1,002 1,203 1,296 I (-1 10.2 27.2 20.1 7.7
I Sayre, PA 7,735 7 ,917 7 ,473 6,951 5,791 (--I 2.4 -5.6 -7.0 -16.7 S. Waverly, PA 1,298 1,382 1,307 1,176 1,049 (--I 6.5 -5.4 -10.0 -10 .8 Waverly, NY 6,037 5,950 5,261 4 ,738 4 ,787 (--I -1.4 -11.6 -9.9 1.0
Barton, NY 1,980 2,415 3 ,285 4 ,046 4 ,138 (--I 21.9 36.1 23.2 2.3
Source: U.S. 'Bureau of Census, 1990 Pennsylvania Municipal Population, PA State Data Center, 1991.
14 Analysis of this Table further demonstrates that the municipalities with a good supply of developable land are growing. These communities include Athens and Litchfield Townships in Pennsylvania and the Town of Barton, New York. More recent population losses, if accurate, might be due to a variety of factors such as possible lack of professional opportunities for recent college graduates, migration of elderly people to the south, and a relatively low birth rate. Since the unemployment rate in the areas is generally lower than the State average, it can be assumed that the total job supply is relatively stable in relation to the supply of workers. However, at least 1/3 of the employers contributing to the GTE/VEDA labor market study in 1988 reported difficulty in recruiting certain skilled trades people, and a lesser degree of difficulty in recruiting profession- al and managerial employees. (See Chapter 4 for a more detailed analysis of economic conditions in the Township and in the Valley a Region. ) B. CURRENT POPULATION PROFILE An analysis of the current and recent population profiles is helpful in predicting upcoming trends and potential problems and opportunities. Detailed population information from both the 1980 and 1990 Census records was used as the basis for comparison, and where available, the 1970 Census figures were also included. This section will examine the age and sex composition, minority and race statistics, marital status, household and family characteristics, general income, and educational levels of Township residents. These characteristics will be used to identify current and future needs for services and facilities. (Chapter- 5 will discuss the implications of the current population profile on in more detail.) 0 future needs The age and sex distribution of the Township population will I be examined first . Table 3A summarizes the age and sex I distribution of Athens Township in 1980; Table 3B provides the same distribution, in slightly different detail, fog 1990; Table 3C presents a comparison of age categories for 1980 and 1990 and Table 3D compares the change in age distribution in the Township from I 1970 to 1990.
15 Table 3A
Athens Township Age-Sex Distribution 1980
Age Male Female TotalPopulation Catecrorv Number (%/ Total) Number (%/ Total) Number (%/ Total) 0-4 206 (4.1) 190 (3.8) 396 (7.9) 5-14 413 (8.3) 442 (8.9) 855 (17.1)
15-24 440 (8.8) 443 (8.9) 883 (17.7)
25-34 355 (7.1) 388 (7.8) 743 (14.9)
35-44 301 (6.0) -. 314 (6.3) 615 (12.3)
45-54 262 (5.2) 255 (5.1) 517 (10.4)
55-59 116 (2.3) 137 (2.7) 253 (5.1)
60-64 109 (2.2) 108 (2.2) 217 (4.3)
65-74 169 (3.4) 179 (3.6) 348 (7.0)
7% 69 (1.4) 98 (2.0) 167 (3.3)
TOTAL 2,440 (48.9) 2,554 (51.1) 4,994 (100)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population and Housing, Summary Population and Housing Characteristics, 1980.
Table 3B
Athens Township Age-Sex Distribution 1990
Age Male Female Total Catecrorv Number (%/ Total) Number (%/Total) Number (%/ Total 1
0-17 639 (13.4) 594 (12.5) 1,233 (25.9) 18-64 1,418 (29.8) 1,471 (30.9) 2,889 (60.8) 65 + 264 ( 5.6) 369 ( 7.8) 633 (13.3)
TOTAL 2,321 (48.8) 2,434 (51.2) 4,755 (100.0)
16 Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population and Housing, Summary of Age/Sex Characteristics, 1990.
Table 3C
Athens Township Age Distribution Comparison
1980 and 1990
Age 1980 1990 Catecrorv Number (%/Total1 Number (%/ Totall
0-4 396 ( 7.9) 352 ( 7.4) 5-24 1,738 (34.8) 1,236 (26.0) 25-64 2,345 (47.0) 2,534 (53.3) 65+ -.515 (10.3) 633 (13.3)
TOTAL 4,994 (100.0) 4,755 (100.0)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population and Housing, Summary of Population and Housing Characteristics, 1980 and 1990.
Tab18 3D
Athens Township Age Distribution Comparison
1970, 1980 and 1990
1970 1980 1990 Age Number Number Number Catecrory (%/Total (%/Total) (%/Total1
0-17 1,527 (38.1) 1,597 (32.0) 1,233 (25.9) 18-64 2,119 (52.9) 2,882 (57.7) 2,889 (60.8) 65+ 361 ( 9.0) 515 (10.3) 633 (13.3)
TOTAL 4,007 (100.0) 4,994 (100.0) 4,755 (100.0)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population and Housing, Summary of Population and Housing Characteristics, 1970, 1980 and 1990.
17 Pennsylvania's population, like the U.S. population as a whole, is aging as longevity increases and birth rates moderate. For example, comparing age group statistics in Athens Township from the 1990 Census with figures from the 1980 Census (Table 3C) shows that over the most recent decade, the municipality's available work force (the 25-64 age group) increased by 6.3%- During the same time period, the elderly population (those over 65 years of age) also increased by 3%. These increases were countered by a .5% decrease in the number of pre-school age children (0-4 years of age) in the community and a decline of 8.8% in the elementary/high school/college age group (those between the ages of 5-24 years). An examination of 1970 Census figures shows that the same general trends occurred during the decade of the 70's. (See Table 3D.) Although the population numbers in each category are not the most illustrative, the percentages illustrate a definite increase in the size of the work force and in the number of elderly residents in the Township, and a reduction in the number of younger people in the municipality. Thus, there has been a rather signif- icant shift in age composition of Athens Township over the past 20 years. The Township's median age has also corresponding increased, from 28 years of age in 1970, to 34 in 1980, and to 35.5 in 1990. No projections for future age composition have been prepared for Athens Township by the Census Bureau. However, based on 1980 Census information, the PA State Data Center projected age charac- teristics for Bradford County through the year 2000. Their projections are included in Table 4. The most interesting aspect of these projections is the continued growth rate in the number of senior and elderly residents as compared to the rate in the number of pre-school and school age residents. Nationally, the senior age group is the fastest growing in the country. The projected age composition for the population of Bradford County, which should be generally applicable to Athens Township, supports this national trend. (The social service implications of the aging population of Athens Township will be examined in greater detail in Chapter 5, the Community Facilities and Services section of this Plan,) Actual 1990 Census figures for Bradford County show that the percentage projections for that year turned out to be fairly accurate. Although the population numbers were slightly high, the percentages were proportionately similar. It is expected that future trends in the Township and County will continue in a fashion similar to that illustrated in Table 4.
18 Table 4 Bradford County Age Characteristics Projections 1980 Through 2000
1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 Number Number Number Number Number Acre Cohort (%/POD .1 (%/POD.) (%/Pop. 1 (%/Pop.) (%/POD.) Pre-School 4 ,751 5,085 5,478 5,317 4 ,670 0-4 (7 6) (7.9) (8.4) (8.0) (6.9) School Age 17 ,014 14 ,939 14 ,218 14 ,538 15 ,067 5-19 (27.0) (23.3) (21.7) (21.8) (22.4)
Adult 33,497 --35,663 36,811 37 ,386 37,649 20-64 (53.4) (55.7) (56.2) (56.0) (55.9)
Senior 5,871 6,395 6,866 7,017 7,010 65-79 (9.3) (10.0) (1015) (10.5) (10.4) Elderly 1,786 1,953 2 ,178 2 ,556 2 ,927 80+ (2.8) (3.0) (3.3) (3.8) (4.3)
TOTAL 62,919 64,035 65,551 66,814 67,323
Source: Population Issues Research Center, PA State Data Center, Pennsylvania Population Projections, 1980-2000, January, 1986.
Minority populations, like the elderly, often have unique needs. For example, non-english speaking school age minorities often need special instruction. Athens Township, unlike more urbanized areas, has a very small minority population and few special need minorities. Statistics developed by the U.S. Census for the Athens Area School District, which includes Athens Township, indicate that in 1980 there were only a few, if any, enrolled students who did not speak english well. As Table 5 below illustrates, only .55% of the total Athens Township population was identified as being a member of a minority race according to the 1970 Census. That percentage increased only slightly to 1.24% in 1980 and to 2.0% in 1990.
19 Table 5
Athens Township Population by Race
1970, 1980 and 1990
1970 1980 1990 Race Number (%/Total) Number (%/Total) Number (%/ Total)
White 3,985 (99.45) 4,932 (98.76) 4,660 (98.0) Black, Not Hispanic 15 ( 0.38) 18 ( 0.36) 12 ( 0.3) American Indian * 1 ( 0.02) 5 ( 0.1) Asian & Pacific Islander *. 40 ( 0.80) 72 ( 1.5) Other 7 ( 0-.17) 3 ( 0.06) 6 ( 0.1)
TOTAL 4,007 (100.0) 4,994 (100.0) 4,755 (100.0)
Hispanic Origin, Any Race * 14 ( 0.28) 13 ( 0.3)
* Information not provided by Census
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population and Housing, Selected Population and Housing Characteristics, 1970, 1980 and 1990.
Sometimes the composition of a household can indicate more special needs. For example, single parent households often have extra day care and social service needs. In Athens Township, traditional families are very much the predominant household type. According to the Census Bureau, over 64% of the population of the Township in 1980 was married, and 69% of all households were married couple households, with or without children. 1990 Census figures show that these percentages remained fairly constant over the past ten years, with only a 5.5% decrease in the total number of married couple households. (See Table 6.) Married couples, with or without children, and single person households, are the major household types in the Township. Although nearly 10% of all households were single parent households in 1980, less than 4% of all households with two or more individuals were considered non-family households. By 1990 the number of single parent households had increased to 11.2% and the
20 number of non-family units with two or more persons had decreased to less than 3%.
Table 6 offers an overview of all household types in the Township. The table also shows that of all single parent households in 1980, nearly 68% were headed by females with no husband present. That number increased to almost 75% in 1990. Of these female-headed households, 16% were below the poverty line in 1979 according to the U.S. Census Bureau. (1990 figures in this category have not yet been released.) Although this is a small number of households, it is likely they are very needy. (Household and family poverty statistics will be discussed later in this chapter. )
Table 6 Athens Township Household & Family Characteristics
1980 and 1990
1980 1990 Number (%/ Total) Number (%/ Total)
Households Number of Family Households 1,358 (78.8) 1,373 (74.8) Number of Non-Family Households 365 (21.2) 463 (25.2)
TOTAL 1,723 1,836
Family Households Number of Married Couple Families 1,190 (69.1) 1,168 (63.6) Number of Female Households, No Husband Present 114 ( 6.6) 153 ( 8.4) Number of Male House- holds, No Wife Present 54 ( 3.1) 52 ( 2.8)
(Continued on Next Page)
21 Household & Family Characteristics - Continued 1980 1990 Number (%/Total 1 Number (%/Total)
Non-FamilV Households One Person Households 308 (17.9) 411 (22.4)
Two or More Persons 57 ( 3.3) 52 ( 2.8)
TOTAL 1,723 1,836
Persons Per Household 3.45 2.59 _- Persons Per Family ---- 3.02
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population and Housing, Summary Population and Housing Characteristics, 1980 and 1990.
Family structure, in particular, the number of single parent households, is only one factor in determining a need for social services. Other factors, such as income levels for individuals and families with children, can more accurately indicate the need for social services and other support for distressed families. Table 7 looks at the type and levels of income for families and house- holds in the Township.
Table 7
Athens Township Family and Household Income 1970 - 1990
Income 1970 1980 1990
Median Household --- $16,125 $26,380
Median Family $8,892 * $17,204 $31,699 Mean Per Capita $3,437 $ 6,238 $13 ,449 * Mean Family Income Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population and
22 Housing, Summary of General Income Characteristics, 1970, 1980, and 1990.
Although personal income in Pennsylvania was rising during the latter part of the 1980'~~per capita income in Athens Township was well below the state average of $16,168 reported for 1988 by the PA State Data Center. Chapter 4 of this Plan will provide a complete economic analysis of the region addressing the employment base and wage rates. For the purposes of a population profile, however, it is vital to look at the number of residents living in poverty. Tables 8 and 9 examine the type and amount of income of Athens Township residents and their income status.
Table 8 Income Status- for Athens Township 1980 Number of Households Mean Tme of Income % of Total Income in 1979
Federally Taxable 1,467 $17 ,879 Income (84.9) Social Security 476 $4 ,877 Income (27.6) Public Assistance 145. $2 ,633 ( 8-41
Table 9 Athens Township Poverty- Status, Low-Moderate Status, 6 Section 8 Eligibility 1980 and 1990
1980 1990
Number of Families Below Poverty Line: 91 115 (% of total families) (6.71 (8.4) Total Number of Persons 407 556
Households Below Section 8 Limit ($15,179): 792 * (% of total households) (46.0) * Total Number of Low-Moderate Persons 2 ,297 *
* Information not yet available from 1990 Census.
23 Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, General Social and Economic Characteristics, 1980; U.S. Bureau of Census, Summary of General Income Characteristics, 1990; and U.S. Bureau of Census, Income and Poverty Status in 1979 for Towns/Townships of 2,500 to 10,000, 1980.
In 1980 and 1990 a significant minority of the population had income levels that could predict economic distress and social needs. Further analysis of 1989 data prepared for the 18810 & 18840 Zip Code areas (see Graph 1) however, shows that the percen- tage of Township people in Low-Moderate and Poverty categories did not change significantly from 1979 to 1989. (Chapters 4 and 5 of this Plan will discuss the implications of these statistics.) A final population characteristic, education levels in the Township, is examined in Table 10. _. a Table 10 Years of School Completed Athens Township Residents 25 Years of Age or Older 19708 1980 and 1990
1970 1980 1990
Total Residents Over 25: 28079 28860 3 8 167
Residents Completing: Elementary (8 years or less) 407 430 *
High School (1-3 years) 526 627 * ( 4 years) 834 1,357 2,448 College (1-3 years) 192 220 * (4 or more years) 120 226 659
Percent High Schoo1.Graduates: 40.1 47.5 77.3
I * Information not yet available from 1990 Census.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Northern Tier Regional Planning & Development Commission compilation, 1970; U.S. Bureau of Census, General Social and Economic Characteristics, 1980 and U.S. Bureau of Census, Summary of General Income Characteristics, 1990.
24 The drop-out rate has decreased so dramatically over the past 10 years, that it is expected that as many as 85% of all students will graduate from high school or technical school in 1992. Thus, over time, the percent of graduates in the population has increased significantly. In 1988, 30-35% of all Township residents graduating from high school could be expected to attend a four-year college. Estimates for 1990 show that this figure may have improved to as high a 40%.
C. POPULATION PROJECTIONS Three (3) factors must be considered when estimating future population growth rates: 1. Birth Rate - the birth rate per 1,000 women. _. 2. Death Rate - the death rates per 1,000 women and 1,000 men (the rates differ). 3. In-Miaration/Out-Miaration - The net growth or loss occurring as people move into and out of the area. The most dominant factor in estimating growth in Athens Township would be in-migration/out-migration, although birth and death rates must be taken into consideration also to generate reasonable estimates of population growth. Table 11 presents Department of Environmental Resources' Municipal Population Projections for Athens Township to the year 2000.
Table 11 Athens Township Population Projection to 2000
1980 1990 2000
Athens Population 4 ,994 5,381 5,396 (4,755 actual)
Source: PA Department of Environmental Resources, Municipal Projections Report, 1985.
Unfortunately, despite population estimate formulas and theories, predictions of future population growth are difficult for two reasons. First, the County and Athens Township have recently
25 lost population, according to the 1990 Census, thus reversing earlier population trends. As a result of this recent erratic growth pattern, it becomes difficult to predict the future. Second, accurate population growth predictions are related to regional and economic factors. Table 12 attempts to look at two optimistic projections for the Township. Both show modest amounts of growth, a reversal of the more recent trend.
Table 12 Athens Township Population Projections to 2010
Birth/Death Low (+. 25%/year) Moderate(+. 5%/year) Population In/Out Migration In/Out Migration Year Growth -: Growth Growth a 1990 4 ,755
I 1995 4 ,779 4 ,814 4 ,874 2000 4,803 4 ,874 5,016
2005 4 ,827 4,933 5,111
I 2010 4 ,a52 4,993 5,231 I
TOTAL GROWTH +2.0% +5.0% +lo. 0%
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, 1990 PA Municipal Population, PA State Data Center, 1991 and Landplan, Inc., 1991.
Athens Township can have an impact on its future population growth through its subdivision and land development regulations as they affect in and out-migration. If a zoning ordinance is adopted, it too will affect future growth. The guidance provided by these ordinances could control the location and, to a certain extent, the timing of future growth. In addition, facilities, services, and other support programs could aid in attracting future residents.
D. IMPLICATIONS FOR DEVELOPMENT PLAN The Township's expected growth rate will probably be at or below the low growth levels shown in Table 12. The ultimate in-
26 migration level will be affected by the Township's land use policies and any implementing ordinances which may be enacted, as well as the regional economy. Preparation for expected population growth must be addressed in any future Zoning Ordinance for the Township. The land use recommendations and implementation strategies of this Plan will also consider the expected rate of growth. The Future Land Use Recommendations Map in this document will identify suitable locations for this growth. Soil suitabilities and topography, which are discussed in Chapter 7, will naturally play a key role in directing the location of new development. The Township must consider the best location for new residents within the developable land available and use appropriate tools to direct growth to those locations. _.
27 CHAPTER 4. ECONOMIC ANALYSIS
A. REGIONAL ECONOMY Athens Township, located at the junction of NY Route 17 and US Route 220, is linked to the surrounding regional economy and sends 90% of its labor force to work outside the Township's boundaries. A sizable minority, slightly over 300 individuals, according to one local tax accounting firm, work out of state in New York. This regional participation gives Athens Township residents many advantages over residents of other Townships in more isolated parts of Pennsylvania. Athens Township is part.of an economic region including five Counties: Bradford in Pennsylvania; and Chemung, Steuben, Tioga and Broome in New York. This region includes a significant number of educational institutions, hospitals and medical clinics. These institutions have helped to cushion Athens Township residents from the worst impacts of recent recessions. In the 19801s, for example, the state of Pennsylvania lost nearly 25% of its manufac- turing jobs and more than 40% of its mining jobs. 1 Statewide, the creation of new jobs over the one year period ending in June of 1990 has been at a rate only one third that of the average rate of the previous three years. The brightest spots in the employment picture have been created by the service sector in medical care, retail trade and business services. The basic manufacturing industries which previously provided much of Pennsylvania and New York's job growth have experienced slower or negative growth in recent years. This trend is expected to continue, but the many positive factors in the region offer hope of a promising future for the Athens Township economy.
B. EMPLOYERS AND ECONOMIC BASE The township's labor force has access to a wide variety of employers in Pennsylvania and New York. A complete listing of the major employers in the five-county Economic Region is included in Appendix A of this document. Employers are listed by County and are ranked according to the number of persons they employ. A total of 84 major employers are identified, including 15 in Bradford County, 8 in Tioga County, 22 in Chemung County, 15 in Steuben County and 24 in Broome County. An additional 12 businesses and 9 financial institutions are listed as employers in the Athens,
I Penn State University, "Road to Renaissance IV report of Pennsylvania job growth, 1991. 28 Athens Township, Sayre, and South Waverly areas. According to information provided by each of the Counties, these employers account for between 75,000 and 80,000 jobs in the region. Most of these employers are located within a 40-45 mile commuting distance for Township residents. A regional map can be found on the next page which outlines the five-county area and illustrates the location of the most prominent employment centers in this portion of New York and Pennsylvania.
C. BANKING Athens Township also has the .advantage of a wide range of strong banking facilities which provide financing for a broad scope of businesses. According to figures published by Decision Research Sciences, Inc. bank deposits for all institutions in Bradford County have nearly doubled during the last decade. Table 13 below tracks the growth in bank deposits from 1981-1990. The avail- ability of these funds in the County furnishes the means for many business development activities directly influencing job creation and growth. I Table 13 Total Deposits (in 0009s) all Financial Institutions in Bradford County Year Amount % Chancre
1981 $311,990 - 1982 $339,961 +8.9% a 1983 $387 ,947 +14.1 1984 $414 ,514 +6.8
1985 $438 ,454 +16.6
1986 $468 ,458 -3.1 1987 $499 ,022 +6.5
1988 $530 ,652 +6.3
1989 $569 ,922 +7.4
1990 $606 ,533 +6.4
Source: Decision Research Sciences, Inc., Directories from 1987, 1988, 1989, and 1990. 29 FIVE-COUNTY ECONOMIC REGION
Steuben County
w 0
MAP 2 Over one third of the total Bradford County deposits for 1989, $193,812,000, were within the Pennsylvania portion of the Valley area. A listing of the Valley banks and their total 1989 deposits follows.
Table 14
Local Bank Deposits (in 000~s)for 1989
Athens TownshiD
Citizens & Northern Bank $ 11,555 First National Bank 5,200
Athens Borouub
BCE Federal Credit Union 643 Citizens & Northern Bank 23,525 Ingersoll-Rand Federal C.U. 11,548 Northern Central Bank 34 ,479
Savre
Citizens Savings Association 16 ,376 Commonwealth Bank & Trust 48 ,915 First National Bank 15,346 PSC Federal Credit Union 494 Packer-Guthrie Federal C.U. 3 ,298 Star Savings & Loan Assoc. 18 ,441 First National Bank, S. Waverly 3 ,992
SUB-TOTAL $ 193,812
Waverly 60,000+
VALLEY- TOTAL $ 253,812+
Source: Decision Research Sciences, Inc., 1989 Directory and Chemung Canal Trust Co. (Waverly figures), 1989.
The Valley banks are generally strong because they have resisted the temptation to over-finance local businesses. Where this has happened, many bank failures have resulted.
31 D. LOCAL ECONOMY AND WORK FORCE In addition to looking at regional factors impacting the Township economy, certain local factors, such as the composition of the work force, education levels and income should be examined. Although a majority of Athens Township residents leave the Township for their employment, the reverse is also true to a lessor degree. Employees come to Athens Township from outside the municipality. In January of 1992, over 130 businesses in Athens Township provided job opportunities, and approximately one third of these businesses were started, expanded or relocated to the Township in the last five years. (See Appendix B of this document for a complete listing of the businesses located in Athens Township in January 1992.) The non-farm businesses of Athens Township have an estimated sales volume of over $136,000,000 per year with major food market sales contributing $58,000,000 of this amount. Residents of Athens Township working within and outside the Township earned over $50,000,000 in wages in 1990. Wage tax revenues were up 13.6% in the 1989-90 tax year in the Athens Area School District. (See also Graph 2 on page 37.) Construction of single family homes in the Township proceeded at a steady rate of 20-25 per year during the last five years (through 1990), providing construction jobs in the short term and added income to the Township and the community in the long term. Also, approximately 24 multi-family units were built and 50 mobile homes were set up during the period. In general the sub-regional (Valley) economy is steady and the employment outlook in many job sectors is normally good. However, more residents are being employed in the skilled and professional ranks and there appears, at times, to be a shortage of applicants for these jobs. The manufacturing sector's need for unskilled and semi-skilled people has weakened according to the 1988 VEDA/GTE e study. This is a common trend throughout Pennsylvania and elsewhere. The unemployment rate in the region is generally below the state average. In Bradford County it averaged 5.6% in 1987 and 5.5% in 1990. The 1990 Bradford County work force was 32,500 and, of that work force, 30,700 were employed. A large work force coupled with rare work stoppages make the sub-region attractive to industry. Table 15 below outlines recent wage rates and salary ranges.
32 Table 15
Bradford Co nty Wage and Salary Rates-1991
Estimated Prevailins Waae Rates/hr.
Skilled $ 10.00 - $ 12.00 Semi-skilled $ 6.00 - $ 10.00 Unskilled $ 4.00 - $ 6.00 Clerical $ 5.00 - $ 8.00 Technicians $ 8.00 - $ 15.00 Estimated Professional Salary Ranaes
Engineering: $22,000 to $45,000 annually Management: $26,000 to $60,000 annually Medical-Specialists: . $80,000 to $150,000 annually _-
Source: Athens Township Planning Commission, 1991.
A Penelec/GPU analysis of the labor market in the Athens/ Towanda/Sayre employment area confirms the previous wage and salary figures. A sampling of their findings follows in Table 16.
Table 16 Wage Rates for Selected Positions - 1990 Posit ion Avu. Hourly Wase Avs. Hourly Start Waue
Computer Operator $ 8.34 $ 6.66 Diesel Mechanic $ 9.91 $ 8.46 0 Electrician $ 12.32 $ 9.69 Hand Packer $ 6.57 $ 5.44 Janitor $ 8.02 $ 6.68 Light Equipment Driver $ 8.06 $ 6.68 Receptionist $ 6.12 $ 5.32
Source: Penelec/GPU, August 1990.
Penelec/GPU also reviewed the characteristics of the unemployed. Their survey confirmed the suspicion that the region has a surplus of unskilled workers. Table 17 provides an overview of the Sayre/Athens/Towanda labor force job seekers.
33 Table 17
Occupational Classifications of Registered Job Applicants Sayre/Athens/Towanda March 31, 1991
OccuDation Catecrory Total Male Female Minority
Professional, Technical 166 95 68 3 and Managerial (57.2%) (41.0%) (1.8%) clerical 366 82 282 2 (22.4%) (77.1%) (0.5%)
Sales 58 36 22 0 (62.1%) (37.9%) .. service 246 87 157 2 (35.4%) (63.8%) (0.8%)
Farming, Forestry 23 20 3 0 and Fishing (87.0%) (13.0%) Processing 62 47 15 0 (75.8%) (2402%)
Machine Trades 153 140 13 0 (91.5%) (8.5%) Bench Work 144 79 64 1 ? (54.9%) (44.4%) (0.7%) Construction Work 286 278 5 3 (Structural) (97.2%) (1.7%) (1.1%) Miscellaneous 308 237 69 2 (76.9%) (22.4%) (0.7%)
TOTAL 1,812 1,101 698 13 (61.4%) (3805%) (0.1%)
Source: Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, Employment Security Automated Reporting System (ESARS), Table 96, 1991.
Overall the income levels in the Valley have increased steadily over the last two decades and projections of future income are also good. Tabie 18 below summarizes recent income trends with projections to 1995. 34 Table 18
Income Distribution and 1995 Income Projection Athens Township
Median Per Average Median Year Capita Income* Household Income Household Income
1969 !$ 2,484 $ 8,321 $ 7,504 1979 $ 5,579 $16,233 $14,452 1990 $10,450 $27,866 $24,147 PROJECTIO, 1995 $13,106 $33,642 $29 ,465 * See Table 7, page 22, for Mean Per Capita Income. Source: Penelec/GPU, August 1990.
Graphs 1 and 2 further illustrate the recent increases in income in Athens Township and the immediately surrounding areas. Graph 1 shows the amount of household income in the two major zip code areas covering the Athens Township area, and Graph 2 depicts the increase in wage taxes collected from Athens Township residents in recent years. (See pages 36 and 37.)
E. EMPLOYMENT FORECASTS In their 1991 publication for the Southern Tier, entitled ttTomorrows Jobs , Tomorrow s Workerst', the New York State Department of Labor forecast 37,000 annual job openings for 1991 and 1992 in'the nine-County area. It is estimated that the number of job openings in the four counties accessible to Athens Township would be approximately 23,000 a year for the two year period. Further, the Department estimates that 9 out of 10 of these openings will be to replace a worker who has left the work force or has changed careers. Departmental figures also show that manufacturing employment will continue to decline, and that construction will be weak. However, employment in the service sector is expected to grow, principally in three area: health care, retail trade and business services. Professional, technical and managerial occupations will provide the greatest number of openings (25%), service positions the next greatest number (22%), clerical (18%), production (17%), sales (16%), and agriculture (2%). Nationally, manufacturing employs approximately 17% of the 35 HOUSEHOLD INCOME BY ZIP CODE 989)
25-
20-
15.
10.
5
0 < 1000010-1 5 ' 15-25' 25-35 .35-50.50-75> 75000 INCOME (IN THOUSANDS)
I EARNED INCOME TAX COLLECTED IN ATHENS TOWNSHIP 280
260 2' t3 240
n v) 220 I-z 3 0 200 z 0 a 180
160
140
120 t I I I I I I I I I I 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 07 88 89 90 YEAR non-farm work force. If major trends continue, this figure is expected to drop to 13% by the year 2000. This is of obvious concern as the non-professional service sector jobs which follow generally pay only 40-60% of the previous rate, and often do not include benefits. In the 5-County Economic Region, Steuben, Chemung, Tioga and Broome Counties in New York had a relatively high percentage of manufacturing employment, averaging approximately 30% in 1990, while Bradford County in Pennsylvania, averaged about 24%. However, even though the region has a higher base than is found nationwide, it will still be affected by the overall decline in the number of manufacturing jobs. This decline can be attributed to a number of factors, including defense cutbacks, government and business restructuring, foreign competition, general economic conditions and even a lack of qualified applicants in some areas. Also in the 1991 repore, the New York State Department of Labor points out that '*the mismatch between work place needs and workers' skills is widening" and that the single best way to fight the erosion of jobs, especially better-paying jobs, is to train and re-train at all levels. With their permission, the following list of Employers' Needs is reprinted. * Employees must be literate - they must be able to read and write and compute with numbers. * Employees should know how to learn - rapidly changing technology will require lifelong education. * Employees should have good communication skills -they need to be effective in both speaking and listening skills and be able to relay accurate messages about their jobs. * Employees should know how to solve problems and be able to develop creative solutions - they should be able to solve both oral and written problems. * Employees need to have a positive self-concept - they need to be able to set a goal and accomplish it. * Employees need to be able to cooperate and work with others - they need to be able to establish and keep successful relationships with their employer and co-workers. * Employees should be able to assume responsibility - they must be able to work with little supervision. Departmental personnel further pointed out that Corning, Inc. has taken the lead in on-going education with a program that allocates 5% of an'employee's time for training. Ingersoll Rand in Athens, PA was also cited as a leader in this area and various 38 IBM plants have received recognition for their on-going training programs. Lastly, there is a bill in Congress that would mandate the allocation of 1% of each employee's time for on-going training. The lack of job skills among segments of the region's work force is also being addressed through a variety of high school, technical school and adult education programs. Bradford County Vo- Tech and BOCES (Board of Cooperative Educational Services) offer extensive training and are working to develop additional courses. At the same time, VEDA has begun an outreach program for 10th graders to familiarize them with area industries and businesses.
In this area, by the year 2000, the median age of the working population is expected to increase from approximately 35 in 1987 to 39. The population 16 years and over is expected to grow at about .2% per year. Women will increase their participation in the work force from 44 to 50%. The labor force in the five-County area is expected to grow by approximately 30,170. Another important demographic factor is the number of elderly residents in Athens Township. Pennsylvania ranks second only to Florida in the percent of its population over age 60. For this, and other reasons it is important to look at the numbers of retired workers receiving social security assistance. Table 19 provides a breakdown of retired workers as well as other social security recipients living in the two zip code areas that cover Athens Township, Sayre and South Waverly.
Table 19 Social Security Recipients by Zip Code 1988
Type of Zip Code Zip Code Benef iciarv 18810 18840 Retired Workers 791 1,454 Disabled Workers 91 164
Widows/Widowers 198 238 over 60' Wives/Husbands3 114 161 -_- Children . 70 144 TOTAL 1,264 2,161 Total Monthly Benefits 1988 $603,000 $1,051,000 39 Source: Social Security Benefits office, December 1988.
The high number of retired workers in the region probably does not impact on business location, relocation or expansion decisions at this time. However, it is possible that some of these retired workers will rejoin the labor force in the future and provide a powerful attraction for businesses looking to relocate to the region. Many economists predict a labor shortage due to the smaller sized generation of workers coming up through the work force following the baby-boomers. If this happens as predicted, these retired workers can be lured back into the labor pool to supplement the work force.
F. TOWNSHIP FISCAL ANALYSIS . _- Condensed copies of the official audit reports for Athens 0 Township from 1982, 1984, 1986, 1988, 1990 and 1991 are included in Appendix B of this Plan. In less than a decade the Township's budget for expenditures, and cash reserves and investments has nearly doubled from $643,550 in 1982 to $1,175,241 in 1990. Table 20 tracks increases for some of the larger annual expenditures.
2 These individuals qual-fy for benefits because of earnings by their deceased spouses, not their own work histories. 3 This group includes spouses of disabled workers or parents of disabled or dependent children. This category also includes spouses of retired workers.
40 Table 20
Athens Township Major Expenditures - 1982-1990
ExPenditure 1982 1984 1986 1988 1990
Legislative $20,921 $27,765 $39,713 $55 ,496 $74,021 (Administration)
Police Protection 94 ,273 107,483 131,120 168,789 188,950
Fire Protection 39,840 38 ,376 42 ,337 41,243 45,181
Highways 155,919 198 ,490 105,666 229,565 191,879
Miscellaneous4 114,405 - -38,038 67 ,048 78 ,549 128,111
Other' 27,023 36,584 168,268 44 ,519 84,827 Total Expenditures $452,381 $446,736 $654,152 $618,161 $712,969 Source: Athens Township Board of Supervisors, Annual Audit Reports, 1982, 1984, 1986, 1988, and 1990. (Totals for 1982 were rounded to the nearest dollar amount.)
Highway expenses, fire protection and miscellaneous expendi- tures do not follow the steady growth pattern of the other Township disbursements. On the one hand, funds for major highway expenses are not tied to tax receipts collected directly by the Township and therefore are not subject to changes in state and federal policies. The record of Township receipts for intergovernmental revenues presented in Table 21 illustrates this clearly. On the other hand, the fire company raises funds locally to supplement the Township's annual contribution and help meet its expenses and for that reason, the Township's expenditures for fire protection have not followed a predictable pattern.
Table 21 also illustrates that receipts have not always exceeded expenditures. This is offset by the Township's
4 nMiscellaneousll expenditures include contributions for unifom and non-unif om retirement pensions, insurance premiums, and other employee benefits. expenditures include costs for tax collection, municipal buildings; other public safety, sanitation, planning and zoning, and culture and recreation.
41 substantial fund reserves and investments set aside during years when receipts exceeded expenditures. For this reason the Township has not had to borrow funds for current expenses. The Township's total cash and investments are included in Table 21 to give a complete picture of the Township's fiscal situation.
Table 21
Athens Township Major Receipts - 1982-1990
ReceiDts 1982 1984 1986 1988 -1993
Real Estate $65,368 $72 ,642 $85 ,628 $116 ,241 $142 ,587 Taxes -. - Local Enabling 148,671 177 ,481 212 ,611 268,993 308 ,809 Taxes
Intergovernmental 0 141,784 257 ,770 198,321 150,246 Revenues
Grants 61 Gifts 154 ,760 0 0 0 0
Other' 45 ,767 62 ,767 56,641 63 ,898 149,125
Total Receipts $414,566 $454,674 $612,650 $647 ?453 $750,767
Total Expenditures $452,381 $446,736 $654,152 $618?161 $7 12,969
DIFFERENCZ ($37,815) $7,938 ($41,502) $29?292 $37?798
Source: Athens Township Board of Supervisors, Annual Audit Reports, 1982, 1984, 1986, 1988, and 1990. (Totals for 1982 were rounded to the nearest dollar amount.)
The cash and investments held by the Township in various funds give the Township a fiscal flexibility other less prosperous
6 "Other" receipts include licenses and permits : fines and costs: interest and rents: departmental earnings; and sales of assets.
42 municipalities lack. The current total funding reserves, excluding pensions, total approximately 25% of the entire expenditures for 1990. Maintaining and in some cases, increasing the funding reserves, could be beneficial to the fiscal health of Athens Township. Table 22 shows the total cash and investments which remained at the conclusion of each identified year.
Table 22 Athens Township Cash and Investments - 1982-1990 Cash and Investments 1982 1984 1986 1988 1990
General Fund $88,159 $96-,008 $61,107 $59,742 $91,156 -. - Landfill Fund 80,567 90,307 a6 ,738 80,925 68, 405
Round Top Fund 1,583 5,036 1,591 4,152 16,314
Highway Aid 12,239 17,090 18,147 11 ,566 4,349 Fund
Revenue Sharing 8,462 10,905 20,504 0 0 Fund
PA. Ave Sewer Fund 159 0 '0 0
Police Pension 0 0 0 249,250
Non-Uniform 0 0 0 32 ,798 Pension
Total Cash and Investments $191,170 $219,346 $188,087 $156,305 $462,272
Source: Athens Township Board of Supervisors, Annual Audit Reports, 1982, 1984, 1986, 1988, and 1990.- (Totals for 1982 were rounded to the nearest dollar amount.)
43 CHAPTER 5.
COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES The quality and capacity of community facilities and services, i.e. police and fire stations, schools, parks, museums, educational institutions, personal care and nursing homes, hospitals and other health care providers, are important factors in evaluating an area's desirability and its ability to attract future residents. Athens Township is part of a group of cooperative municipalities within the Valley region which offer a wide range of easily accessible facilities and services. The excellent facilities and services available in this region directly contribute to the health, safety and welfare of all Valley residents and their en] oyment of the community. Further, Athens Township I s location in an aesthetically attractive.regionhelps the Township maintain a strong economic base. -. -
A. GOVERNMENT FACILITIES AND SERVICES 1. TownshiD Government Based on population, Athens Township is a Class I1 Township and is therefore subject to the provisions of the Second Class Township Code. The Township government consists of 3 Supervisors, elected by the residents of the municipality to serve as the official governing body; 5 Planning Commission members, appointed by the Supervisors to serve as an advisory body; a Township Secretary, also appointed by the governing body; a 10-member appointed Sewer Authority; a 5-member appointed Park Commission; an elected Real Estate Tax Collector; 3 elected Auditors; an elected Tax Assessor; and an appointed Earned Income Tax Collector. There is also an appointed Building Permit Officer. Physical Plant. Athens Township and its municipal Police Department maintain their administrative offices in a 2,500 square foot municipal building located on a 5.5 acre tract of ground that the Township owns at the corner of Elmira Street and Herrick Avenue. The municipal garage, containing 5,000 square feet, and a yard for storing the Township's road and highway maintenance equipment and materials, are also located on the same site. In addition, recycling facilities are provided for Township residents on the Herrick Avenue property and one of the community's fire stations is situated on an adjacent site. Due to a dramatic increase in police activity and additional space needs for Township administration, the municipal building, which was completed in 1972, will be
44 undergoing a major expansion in 1992. No changes or adjustments are planned for the highway garage at this time. Off-site municipal facilities include a target range for the Township Police Department, located along Sunnyfield Drive west of Greenslanding. In addition, long term lease arrangements have been made to obtain gravel for highway maintenance projects from a pit in New York since suitable material can not be found within the Township boundaries. Administration. At the present time, all municipal administrative offices are located in the complex on Herrick Avenue. There are 13 full-time and 9 part-time employees, including a road foreman and 3 highway workers. As indicated above, functions performed in the Township Building include supervisory, secretarial, planning, sanitation, sewage disposal, recreation, accounting, and permit issuance. -.-Themunicipal Police Department, consisting of a police chief and 5 full-time and 3 part- time officers, is also housed within the same structure, (A detailed description of police protection can be found in part B of this Chapter.) A brief explanation of some of the municipal functions follows. The 3 elected Supervisors serve as the governing body for the municipality and are responsible for all aspects of government operation in the Township, from road maintenance to annualbudgeting. They employ or appoint all individuals or agencies necessary to assist them in handling these duties. The 5-member appointed Township Planning Commission advises the Township Supervisors on all land use related matters and provides a report of their actions and recommen- dations at the Supervisors' monthly meetings, The Planning Commission meets regularly once each month and one additional night per month on demand to review subdivision plans and land development proposals. They administer the Township's Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance and will research the possibility of a zoning ordinance for the community, They also coordinate with the Building Permit Officer and collect information on subdivisions and land developments in the Township. A 10-member Township Sewer Authority was created and members were appointed in April of 1988. Their primary function is to oversee the construction and maintenance of sanitary sewer lines in Athens Township. They work in concert with the Sayre-Athens Joint Sewer Authority to assure that adequate public sewage disposal facilities are provided. 'More specifically, they are responsible for negotiating easements for sewer line projects and handling
45 grant applications for funding to finance such work. A 5-man appointed Park Commission meets monthly to oversee and coordinate all aspects of management of Round Top Park in the Township, including the negotiation of leases for the placement of antennae on the site. They provide status reports of the Park's operation to the Township Supervisors each month. The 3 elected Township auditors review the community's income and expenditures at the conclusion of each budget year and prepare a report for the Township and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. They utilize records kept by the Township Secretary and the Township Bookkeeper to complete this task. Their report analyzes the income and expenditures by account number in a form acceptable to the State. These records are open for inspection by the public. _- 2 . County Government Bradford County provides a variety of government services and facilities in nearby Towanda, the County Seat. A list of agencies and departments found in the County Court House on Main Street follows, along with their phone numbers.
General Information: 265-5700 Accounting Supervisor: 265-1723 Adult/Juvenile Probation: 265-1706 Assessment: 265-1714 Auditors: 265- 1716 Board of Commissioners/Courthouse: 265-5700 Court Administrator: 265-1707 District Attorney: 265-1712 Domestic Relations/Support Division: 265-1718 Grants Coordinator: 265-1724 Hearing Master: 265-1711 Maintenance: 265-1719 MIS Department: 265-1720 Personnel/Bookkeeping: 265-1722 Planning Commission: 265-1715 , Prothonotary/Clerk of Courts: 265-1705 Public Defender: 265-1713 Register of Wills/Recorder of Deeds: 265-1702 Sheriff: 265-1701 Title Searchers: 265-1703 Treasurer/Tax Claim Bureau: 265-1700 Veterans' Affairs: 265-1704 Voter Registration/Board of Elections: 265-1717
46 B. POLICE PROTECTION A 1963 citizen's petition brought about the formation of the Athens Township municipal police force in 1964. The force has grown from 1 man to its current complement of a full time Police Chief overseeing 5 full-time and 3 part-time officers. The department operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and utilizes 3 patrol cars to cover the 67 miles of Township roads. The force is well trained and equipped and has recently completed advanced CPR and First Aid training. The Township's new computer will allow the officers to process data more efficiently thereby reducing the amount of time spent on routine paper work. During 1990, the Athens Township police force responded to over 2,300 complaints and patrolled over 60,000 miles of roads. In a typical month, they respond to over 200 complaints, investigate 20 accidents, write 40 traffic citations and make numerous residential checks. The officers make 10-20 arrests per month and over the course of a year process over 150 criminal of-fenses. Due to vigorous arrest and prosecution of offenders, the volume of burglaries occurring in the Township has declined in 1991. However, vandalism, which has always been a problem, is on the rise again. In addition, the large discount and department stores located in the community are putting a heavy burden on the Township police to apprehend an ever-increasing number of shop lifters. Lastly, the State-subsidized drug control program requires a great deal of attention from the police.
C. FIRE PROTECTION Local fire protection for Athens Township was established in 1976. To begin, two stations were set up, one located on Herrick Avenue on Township property and the other on Kirby Street in East Athens. The Athens Township Fire Department is all volunteer, but receives substantial financial support fromthe Township, amounting to as much as 70% of their annual budget. The building on Kirby Street consists of a 40' x 60' two bay garage housing a 1975 Chevrolet tanker working as a water supply truck, and a fully- equipped 1979 Ford pumper which was completely rebuilt recently.
The Herrick Avenue station consists of a seven bay, 5,000 square foot garage housing the following apparatus:
1958 Dodge Brush Truck; 1979 Dodge Carry Van: 1989 fully-equipped FMC Pumper; 1953 Ford F-600 Lighting Truck; 1974 Ford Ladder Truck: 1981 Pierce Midi-Pumper; 1984 GMC Tanker: and, a Boat and Motor for river rescues.
47 This station also has two separate halls available for rental. These are used for fund raising events, large group meetings and social events of all sorts. The upper level of the building is used for fire fighter training and departmental meetings. The fire company has more than 40 active members which cover the stations 24 hours a day. Alarm dispatches are made by the fire company and the Bradford County Communications Center in North Towanda. Further, the Athens Township company has mutual aid agreements with all of the other valley fire companies in the event additional equipment or manpower is needed for a fire or accident. In recent years, the Athens Township Fire Department has responded to an average of more than 200 calls annually. The company has several plans to expand and improve their service capacity, They have targeted new substation sites at Greenslanding and Stovers Acres by 1995 to accommodate new buildings and businesses in -those areas and to provide service on the west side of the Chemung River. They are also working to set up rural water supplies using line hook ups to ponds and lakes as a substitute for hydrants in these areas. Within the next five years they also plan to purchase several new vehicles, including two new pumpers and a quick attack truck.
D. EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR One of the Township's full-time police officers is currently serving as Emergency Management Coordinator for the municipality, An Emergency Operations Plan has also been prepared for the Township which establishes procedures to assist the community in responding to and recovering from a disaster.
E. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
1. Greater Valley EMS Ambulance Service Athens Township is served by the Greater Valley Emergency Medical Services Ambulance Service, formerly the Sayre Fire Department Ambulance Corporation. The service is entirely donation funded and has 45 active members including trained emergency medical technicians and paramedics. They currently have a full-time Basic Life Support (BLS) System and are exploring the creation of a "first responder" unit which would be based in Athens Township Fire Department facilities and the establishment of another station in New York State. Greater Valley has three ambulances, two purchased in 1989, one rescue truck, one underwater search/recovery scuba team and 1 motorboat.
48 Greater Valley EMS currently has mutual aid agreements with Ulster, East Smithfield, and Ridgebury EMS groups, as well as the Chemung Fire Department and Guthrie Emergency Medical Services to provide full coverage for its service area. In the first nine months of 1991 they responded to a total of 2,076 emergency calls. In 1990, the total number of calls was 2,239. Generally, 8 to 9% of the emergency calls are for Athens Township residents. For 1990, the breakdown for responses in Athens Township included 182 emergency calls, 48 transports, 37 accident responses and 3 standby calls.
2. Guthrie EMS Services In addition to Greater Valley, the Guthrie Healthcare System provides a number of Emergency Medical Services. Guthrie Medical Transport provides non-emergency ambulance transport service for patients who are-.stretcher-boundto and from Guthrie facilities. Multiple units are staffed during the day to provide both advanced and basic level care during transport.
In March 1991, Medic 201, a paramedic response unit staffed 24 hours a day with highly trained personnel and advanced life support (ALS) equipment, was added to expand Guthrie's pre- hospital services. This unit responds with the local BLS ambulances and provides communities in the Valley Region with care once available only in an emergency department. In addition to the ambulance transport service and Medic 201, Guthrie Healthcare System provides regional critical care helicopter service, known as Guthrie One. The helicopter program was put into service in July 1989 to provide emergency care and transport. The helicopter can transport up to three critically ill or injured patients simultaneously. Each flight is staffed by a pilot, a flight paramedic and flight nurse. They recently purchased a new Vietnam-era $3.8 million Huey helicopter with a range of up to 400 miles, an upgrade from the Messerschmitt BK 117 helicopter previously used. This transport service is available 24 hours a day, weather permitting, and offers 10 minute response time to any location in the Valley.
F. EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES
1. Public and Private Schools (K throuqh 121
The Athens Area School District covers 180 square miles and includes Athens Township, Athens Borough, and Sheshequin, Ulster, Ridgebury and Smithfield Townships. While it is not the largest system geographically in Bradford County, it has the County's largest enrollment with over 3,100 students attending during the 1990-91 school year. Recent public high school graduating classes have numbered approximately 160, with 30-35
49 graduating from the Vo-Tech Regional School (soon to be renamed the Northern Tier Career Center) located in North Towanda. According to a 1988 Bradford County profile, roughly one third of Athens High School graduates go on for post-secondary education to a 4 year college and 20% go on to a 2 year institution. Another 10% of Athens High School graduates enter the military each year, and 2-3% of the High School's students drop out each year. Some additional capacity appearsto be available in District school buildings, but such space is primarily found in facilities located in the outer areas of the school district, such as the Gladys Burnham Elementary School and the S.R.U. Middle School. This capacity is of little value at the present time however, because the concentration of population served by the District is located in the Valley areas. Generally, the buildings situated in the inner areas are operating at capacity, including the High School -whichhas actually exceeded its design capacity. Furthermore, although more students could be placed in some of the schools according to state-recommended square footage requirements, this would mean that class sizes would have to be increased to levels which would be inconsistent with current School Board preferences. It does appear though, that the Vo-Tech Regional School could house as many as 150 additional students beyond its current enrollment of 250. In addition to public schools, there are four private schools accessible to area residents. While over 90% of school age children attend public school, a small minority of students attend private or parochial schools. Appendix D lists the Athens and Sayre area public and private schools and includes their enrollments. Several special school programs are also available to residents of the Athens School District in addition to the private schools. The BLaST Intermediate Unit 17 in Towanda serves students with special needs and several of these classes are conducted in Athens Areas Schools. There are also literacy programs available nearby. (These and other special Schools and programs are also listed in Appendix D.) State regulations require the District to provide bus transportation to district students attending area private and parochial schools.
There are 6 libraries available to Township residents housing a combined total of over 120,000 volumes with a circu- lation of over 250,000 yearly. The addresses, locations and phone numbers of these libraries are included in Appendix D. The Spalding Library, located on Main Street in Athens Borough, is the llofficiall'library for Township residents. This facility receives an annual financial contribution from the Township Supervisors, and as a result, there is no charge for its use by Athens Township residents. Numerous literacy programs are held
50 in the library and it is part of the Bradford County Library System.
2. Post-Secondarv Educational Ormortunities
. A broad selection of post-secondary schools is available in Pennsylvania and New York. There are fourteen (14) colleges and community colleges in nearby Counties in Pennsylvania, and twelve (12) institutions in the southern and central tier of New York State. Many of these institutions offer opportunities for continuing adult education. Their programs, locations and general course descriptions are included in Appendix E.
3. Vocational-Technical Traininq The Vo-Tech School in North Towanda (Northern Tier Career Center) is geared for students interested in vocational and technical fields. The Vo-Tech is currently working to make their courses more responsive to the needs of area, state and 0 national employers. A grant-funded 1990 survey, by GeoDemo- graphics, Ltd., provided detailed information to the Vo-Tech on the vocational skills important to area businesses and the employment areas with the most job openings. The Vo-Tech has been responding to the survey by planning and developing new courses to better meet the needs of area employers. Among others, the survey identified the fast growing occupations of paralegal, medical assistant, computer programmer, medical records technician, analyst, and computer repair technician. In addition, the survey noted that employers desire workers with good English skills, computer skills, and interpersonal/ communication skills. Further, the Vo-Tech Campus is also now serving as a meeting place for college-level extension courses being offered by institutions such as Penn State at Wilkes-Barre and Mansfield University.
4, Employment Education The Valley Economic Development Association has also begun to address the problems of area high school students lacking in basic knowledge and familiarity with business and industry. Their pilot plan, "An Education for Industry Program", is designed to raise the awareness levels of high school students preparing for employment after graduation or after further vocational or technical training, The program begins with 10th graders and the first class with full exposure to the program will graduate in 1993. Many area industries, including Ingersoll-Rand, Leprino Foods and FASCO, among others, are involved in the project. Minority and female students will be targeted, while 51 overall, the effort will reduce industrial recruiting costs and increase employee productivity. The VEDA Education Committee oversees the project.
5. Other Adult Education & Career Traininq Established employees and career changers can also find assistance in nearby Elmira at the BOCES Technical, Educational and Career (TEC) Center. This center was formed to meet the needs of member school districts in Schulyer, Chemung and Tioga Counties. In the late 1980's TEC started several adult education programs to meet expanding needs in mechanical, electrical, electronic and computer technology, These "hands- on1' courses are offered to the employees of area businesses and industries. Career Counseling is stressed and a Licensed Practical Nurse Program has been established, All of these programs have been very popular with area residents and businesses and are available to all Pennsylvania residents.
G, SOCIAL SERVICES Social services are available through the County and through private agencies. Many federally and state funded programs are available through the County. A variety of counseling services are available through the Counseling Services of Pennsylvania with offices in Athens Borough and Towanda, and Mental Health Assoc- iates, also in Towanda. In general the needs of the community are being met by the available services. Although there may be some special needs that the Township may want to serve locally in the future, none have been identified at this the. Some of the major social service providers include: the Area Office of Aging; the Bradford County Board of Assistance; County Children and Youth Services ; County Housing Authority; Off ices of Employment Security, Social Services and Veterans Affairs; the Red Cross and Salvation Army; and the Towanda Area Women's Center. A complete listing of the major social service agencies, most of which are located in nearby Towanda, is included in Appendix F. Guidelines, a special telephone information and referral service based in Blossburg, also provides social service agency information for residents of Bradford, Sullivan, and Tioga counties. This service can be reached by calling 1-800-332-6718. Although often not identified as a social service need, Athens Township is additionally blessed with a variety of day care and nursery schools within easy reach of Township residents. These facilities help maintain a growing work force by making it easier for women with small children to resume or find employment. A listing of area day care centers and nursery schools is included in Appendix F.
52 H. HEALTH CARE Health care for residents of Athens Township is readily accessible as the Township is located a few miles from one of the premier collections of medical facilities in the northeast. This coordinated array of facilities has been built up over the past 100 years.
1. Guthrie Healthcare System The foundation for this health network was laid when the Robert Packer Mansion was given to the Town of Sayre by Mary Packer Cummings to be used as a site for a hospital for railroad workers and townspeople. She stipulated the hospital be named the Robert Packer Hospital after her brother who was president of the Lehigh Valley railroad. The hospital was established in 1885 and has since grown into a fine tertiary care facility. Dr. Guthrie became chief-surgeon in 1915 and rapid expansion began. The hospital is now part of the Guthrie Healthcare System. The Guthrie Healthcare System, includes the Guthrie Clinic, the Acute Care Division, the Long Term Division, the Guthrie Foundation for Education and Research, and Guthrie Enterprises. The Guthrie Healthcare System handles over 700,000 patient visits per year and employs over 3,000 people. Through the years the organization has demonstrated that it can readily adapt to regulatory and economic changes in health care. The Guthrie Healthcare System is lead by a three member executive committee which receives its authority from an eleven member Board of Directors including representatives of the medical profession and area businessmen. The Guthrie Healthcare System includes the five related divisions identified above, each with its own distinct purpose. Guthrie Clinic. Guthrie Clinic, and its affiliate Guthrie Medical Group, P.C.., ranks as one of the twenty largest multi-specialty medical group practices in the U.S. More than 240 physicians, representing over 40 specialties and subspecialties, practice in 33 communities of the Twin Tiers of Pennsylvania and New York. Acute Care Division. The System's Acute Care Division consists of the Robert Packer Hospital, located in the Borough of Sayre, and the Tioga Healthcare Facility, in .. Waverly, New York. Robert Packer Hospital is a 366-bed tertiary care teaching hospital which primarily serves a forty county region in Pennsylvania and New York. The hospital is 'an accredited Trauma Center, operates a crit- ical care helicopter transport service, is the regional
53 center for extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, per-forms corneal transplants, laser surgery, open-heart surgery, coronary angioplasty, electrophysiology and Automatic Implantable Cardiac Defibrillator. The Tioga Healthcare Facility focuses on same-day surgery and primary care services. Lonu-Term Care Division. This division provides the patient with options for a continuum of care, including skilled nursing care, intermediate care, home health care and adult medical day care. Currently, 348 long term care beds are licensed in the Guthrie Healthcare System in fourlocations: * Dar-Way Nursing Home, Forksville, Pennsylvania * Tioga Nursing Facility, Waverly, New York * Troy Community Hospital, Troy, Pennsylvania * Sayre House, Sayre, Pennsylvania -. - This division also includes Guthrie Home Care in Sayre, Pennsylvania. Guthrie Foundation for Education and Research. Guthrie Foundation for Education and Research includes the Guthrie Research Institute, the Robert Packer Hospital School of Nursing, and Guthrie's Medical Education Programs. Through the Foundation's Research Institute, basic scientific research on the human immune system, and how the immune system might be strengthened to fight tumor growth, is conducted. Applied research is also supported at the Guthrie Clinic. For example, applied research projects in dermatology, gastroenterology, ophthalmology, pulmonary medicine, radiation oncology, rheumatology, surgical infection, and vascular surgery are underway in the Guthrie Clinic, Working in concert with Guthrie Clinic physicians, medical residencies in Internal Medicine, General Surgery, and Thoracic Surgery are maintained at Robert Packer Hospital. Nurses and allied health professionals are educated through the Robert Packer School of Nursing and the Robert Packer Hospital. The School of Nursing conducts a joint program with Mansfield University which leads to a baccalaureate degree in nursing with an emphasis on clinical training. Guthrie Entemrises. Guthrie Enterprises is a for-profit division of the Guthrie Healthcare System. Its purpose is to provide revenue to further the scientific, charitable mission of the System. Guthrie Enterprises includes the Guthrie Inn and Conference Center, a full service hotel, including Guthrie Travel, located in Sayre, PA and the Med Supply Depot, a retail outlet for quality medical equipment
54 and supplies, also in Sayre.
2. Memorial HosDital
This 60 year old hospital contains 55 acute care beds and 44 skilled nursing beds. It began as Mills Hospital and has been at its current location in Towanda since 1959. It has 300 full and part-time employees. 3. Other Lons-Term Care Options In addition to the facilities associated with the Long Term Care Division of the Guthrie Healthcare System and Memorial Hospital, other options for care of the bed-ridden and fragile elderly are also available in the Athens Township area. Nursing home care is available as skilled nursing care for those unable to take care of themselves- or at an intermediate level for patients with more mobility. In Bradford County in Pennsylvania and Tioga and Chemung Counties in New York there are 11 long- term care facilities. These facilities are listed in the Appendix G.
I. PARKS, RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES & CULTURAL FACILITIES Recreation encompasses more than just the physical activities associated with sports and athletics. Recreation also includes cultural, social and educational activities such as fairs, exhibits, festivals, theatrical performances, museum visits and trips to libraries and historical sites. A great number of both physical and social recreational opportunities are available for Township residents throughout the Valley area.
1. Round TOR Park All Valley residents have access to Round Top Park located within the boundaries of Athens Township. The 565 acre Park, maintained by the Township's volunteer Park Commission, is located high on a mountain ridge west of U.S. Route 220 and southwest of the Township's commercial area. As a result of its location, Round Top Park offers picturesque, scenic views of the Valley communities bounded by the Chemung and Susquehanna Rivers. Recreational facilities available at the Park include nature trails, picnic areas, softball fields, play grounds, hunting and fishing areas, mountain biking, cross country skiing and running trails, and other outdoor recreational opportun- ities, such as space for radio control model airplane flying. In addition, the park is available for scouting camp outs, church services, weddings, outdoor classroom studies, and other group and club activities. The idea to locate a park at its present location was first 55 . ..
conceived by the Athens Borough Park Commission in 1949 and the concept became a reality in 1954. After many years of success- ful operation and numerous improvements, it was decided that the Valley would be best served if the park was deeded to Athens Township. This occurred in May of 1971. The park does not charge user fees and is operated solely by monies received from the rental of 10 picnic pavilions and the array of various antennae located on the premises. The park season begins the third weekend in May and ends the third weekend in November. Hours are from dawn to dusk. Weather permitting, the park is also open on some winter weekends.
2. Other Recreational Facilities and Activities Many additional recreational facilities and activities are within easy access of Township residents, including those on the following list. -. -
Area Parks.
* Athens Borough Park offers tennis, softball and picnicking facilities at the Borough Hall grounds. * Sayre East Side Park is in the process of developing jogging trails, boat access to the Susquehanna River, softball and other activities. I * East Waverly Park has facilities for basketball, horseshoes, picnicking, and softball. * Waverly Glen has picnicking facilities, limited hiking trails and tennis courts. * Hornbrook County Park north of Towanda, provides camping, fishing, boating and picnicking opportunities on the east side of the Susquehanna River. * Mt. Pisgah County Park, located southwest of East Smithfield, has picnicking, camping, hunting, hiking, cross country skiing, snowmobiling and softball. * Mt. Pisgah State Park, located east of and adjacent to Mt. Pisgah County Park, offers hiking, camping, hunting, boating, fishing, swimming, cross country skiing, ice skating, ice fishing and sledding. State Game Lands. State Game Lands located throughout Bradford County offer excellent opportunities for hunting, including Game Lands No. 239 located west of Greens Landing, in the southwest corner of Athens Township. In addition to hunting, this 515 acres of State-owned land also provides
56 facilities for hiking and backpacking, horseback riding, cross country skiing, sledding and snowmobiling. Local Schools and Community Activities. The Athens, Sayre, and Waverly School Districts all offer scholastic sports programs for both boys and girls at the High School level. Girls sports include volleyball, softball, track, basket- ball, cross-country and swimming. Boys programs include football, wrestling, basketball, cross country track, swimming, baseball and track. Co-ed soccer is also played at the high school level. In addition to sponsoring high school athletics, the Athens Area School District also administers a Youth Activities Department (YAD) for youths in grades 6-8. This organiza- tion oversees inter- and intra-mural competition in swimming, football, cross-country, track and basketball (boys) _- Schools throughout the region also provide outdoor recreation areas for public use, including basketball courts, tennis courts, softball fields and playground equipment. Local communities also participate in Little League Baseball, American Legion Baseball, Peewee Football Leagues, AYSO Soccer, and numerous basketball leagues, as well as boy and girl scouting programs. Susuuehanna and Chemunu Rivers. Opportunities for fishing, boating (including rowing, canoeing and motor boating), swimming and water skiing activities can be found at various locations along the Susquehanna and Chemung Rivers. In the Athens Township area, access to the Susquehanna River can be gained at the Athens and Ulster Bridges and at several locations along Riverside Drive on the east side of the waterway. Golf Courses. The following golf courses are located within reasonable driving distance of Athens Township. * Shepard Hills Golf Club - Waverly, New York * .Tomasso's Golf Course - Chemung, New York * Dry Brook Golf Course - Chemung, New York * Nichols Golf Club - Nichols, New York Bowlinq. Bowling facilities can be found at the following locations. * Penn York Lanes - Waverly, New York * Shamrock'Lanes - Ulster, Pennsylvania
57 Roller Skating. The Keystone Roller Rink in Sayre offers indoor roller skating facilities. Racinq. The Monroeton Mud Races include racing tracks for 3 and 4 wheelers, as well as off-road vehicles. Stock car racing is held at the Owego Shangra La Speedway. Watkins Glen Raceway hosts NASCAR, Indy car and other assorted races each year.
3. Cultural Facilities Museums, Historical Societies, and Points of Interest. Valley Railroad Museum - Sayre, PA Tioga Point Museum - Athens, PA Corning Glass Center - Corning, NY Rockwell Museum - Corning, NY Mark Twain Musical-Drama - Horseheads, NY Robertson Center for the Arts C Sciences - Binghamton, NY Arnot Art Museum - Elmira, NY Chemung County Historical Society - Elmira, NY National Soaping Museum - Harris Hill, NY Bradford County Historical Society - Towanda, PA Tioga County Historical Museum - Owego, NY Tioga County Historical Society - Owego, NY Tioga Transportation Museum - Flemingville, NY Festivals and Communitv Activities * Bradford County Fair - Troy, PA * Stephen Foster Festival - Tioga Point Museum, Athens, PA * Arts in the Park - Sayre, PA * Concerts - Broome County Arena, Binghamton, NY and Clemens Center, Elmira, NY Sayre Centennial Celebration - 1991 Bradford County Old Timers' Show - East Smithfield, PA Quinlan's Softball - Waverly, NY Guthrie Gallup (5 and 10K foot races) - Sayre, PA Waverly Recreation Tennis and Horseshoe Tournaments - Waverly, NY * Fourth of July Fireworks - various valley locations * Sayre and Waverly Sportsmen's Clubs * Sayre Movie Theater
58 CHAPTER 6.
PUBLIC UTILITIES
A. WATER SUPPLY FACILITIES
1. Public Water Sumlv Public water supply in the Valley area first became avail- able in the 1880's when the Sayre Land Company installed cast iron lines in the eastern portion of Sayre Borough. Pipes were also laid in the downtown area in the early 1900's. Eventually, a private water company assumed ownership of part of the devel- opment company's water supply system, while the Land Company retained the remainder. In 1968, Consumers Water Company, a private utility which provides sewer and water services to 218,672 customers located in six states, purchased both Sayre- based systems and shortly thereafter, bought the South Waverly Water Company. The three systems then became the Sayre Division of the Pennsylvania Water Company. The PA Water Company now serves approximately 4,500 customers in Sayre, Athens and South Waverly Boroughs and Athens Township. They also maintain two interconnections with the Waverly Water Company and a direct supply line to Leprino Cheese, located in the Waverly area. There are more than 66 miles of mains and over 200 hydrants in the system today. The treatment and filtration plant is located on a 2-acre site near the Susquehanna River in Sayre. Two wells on Delta systems supply water for the facility. The larger of the two wells supplies 2.45 million gallons per day (MGD) for users of the system and the smaller has a 1.45 MGD capacity. The Water Company also owns another as yet untapped site which could provide an additional 2 MGD supply for the system. Average daily water consumption averages 1.8 MGD. Thus, there is 54% unused capacity in the system which should be more than adequate to serve the needs of present customers and to accommodate substantial future growth (including industrial development) in the Valley.
Storage for the system's water supply is in 2 basins and 1 reservoir with a total capacity of 3 MG. Another 2 MG of storage capacity is available at an unused reservoir site. These facilities are located in the eastern portion of Athens Township, approximately 200 feet above the ground elevation of the treatment plant, thereby providing good pressure at the plant. The Company must now decide whether to cover these storage facilities, as is being required by the PA Department of Environmental Resources by the end of 1995, or whether to construct tanks with a total capacity of 2-3 million gallons to
59 store the water. Water quality in the system is excellent, although consider- ed moderately hard. Average nitrate levels are less than 3 mg/liter and dissolved minerals and chemicals are well below the allowable limits. Total dissolved solids are 260 mg/liter, 240 mg/liter below the allowable limits of 500 mg/liter. Treatment consists of adding chlorine and fluoride to the water. A sizeable portion of Athens Township's population is served by the PA Water Company. The system presently serves almost all of the area of Athens Township located "between the riversIt;it provides service for Township residents along some segments of Industrial Park Road and Wolcott Hollow Round in the vicinity of Greenslanding; portions of Milltown north of the Sayre Borough line; along 3,000 feet of Sayre Hill Road; and for about 3-4,000 feet of Riverside Drive south of Sayre Hill Road. (See Map 3.) _-
The distribution network consists of a 12 inch main from the Delta; 10, 14, and 18 inch mains crossing the rivers; 8, 10, and 12 inch lines extending along the major thoroughfares; and 6 and 8 inch lines providing service to side streets. Most of the lines in the system built before the 1960's were made of cast iron. After that time, cement-lined ductile iron was used. Most of the lines located in the Township are therefore cement- lined, with a life expectancy of 100 more years. The current, almost year-long drought has had limited impact on the water supply of the PA Water Company in the Sayre/Athens area, although the water table did drop from 34 feet (below surface) to 36 feet. It appears to be coming back a little now though, perhaps even as much as a 1/2 foot. Wells at present average 85 feet deep. Drought conditions in 1988 had similar effect on the water system. On the other hand, Waverly Water Company wells are quite low, even though they too have come back a little lately. The PA Water Company also maintains an on- going leak protection program to minimize water losses through system leaks. Although not formally planned at this time, any major expansion of the system would likely be in Athens Township, in areas west of the Chemung River. From evaluation of the existing facilities, it appears that the system should be able to continue providing a sufficient supply of water to its present customers and should also be capable of supplying additional residential, commercial or industrial customers in the future.
2. Private, On-Site Water Sumlies The segments of the Township not served by PA Water Company
60 BRAOIOl10 COuMTT LOCATION 'MAP II
MAP 3
PUBLIC WATER
SERVICE AREAS
N
LEGEND
SOURCE: Athens Township water Line naps, PA water Company, 1991.
ATHENS TOWNSHIP BRADFORD COUNTY, PA
-. -. . __-I-----
I must obtain their water from private, on-site wells. In all likelihood this will continue to be the major source of water for rural areas of the Township well into the future. Even though community supplies may be extended to areas west of the Chemung River to service some of the recent subdivisions or may extended to serve future development areas, it would not be economically feasible for water lines to be run through the areas of steeper terrain in the municipality.
B. SEWAGE FACILITIES
1. Public Sewer System The majority of the Sayre Sewer System was built by the WPA during the Great Depression, between 1933-37, although the first lines were likely instal1ed.h the early 1900's. Early lines in the system were installed along main streets and were constructed of clay tile. The system discharged directly into the River, and many storm drains were connected into it. (In recent years however, the municipality has been working hard to eliminate storm drainage from its sanitary sewer lines. The Mohawk Street storm drainage project currently underway will eventually drain 5-10% of the community's stormwater runoff. And, three more stormwater drainage projects are now being engineered; one along Lincoln Street, one in the downtown area and one in the Acme Plaza. When these projects are completed, as much as 1/3 of all the Borough's stormwater will be eliminated from the sanitary sewer lines, thereby creating a much more efficient sewage system.) Upon completion of its present sewer project, the entire Borough, with the exception of Milltown, will be served by the system's 28 miles of lines. Much of the Athens Borough Sewer System was also constructed by the WPA Program during the 1930's. Then in 1967, a joint authority was created with Sayre and a one stage treatment plant was built along River Street in Athens Borough to serve both communities. Once the treatment plant was built, additional lines were laid and today, the entire municipality is served. The Athens Borough system contains 12.9 miles of sewers with no combination sanitary sewer and storm sewer lines.
In 1989, the treatment plant was expanded, converted to a two stage conventional activated sludge design and lines were extended to serve portions of Athens Township. The present capacity of the treatment facility is 2 million gallons of waste per day (MGD) and it has an average operating volume of 1.1 MGD. (Thus, 45% of the systems's total capacity remains unused.) Sayre Borough has been allocated 60% (1.2 MGD) of the total plant capacity, Athens Borough 25% (-5 MGD) and Athens Township 15% (-3 MGD) . At current usage rates, there should be adequate capacity for substantial future development throughout the
61 Valley area. Athens Township has made a commitment to sewer all of the streets in the municipality located "between the rivers" . Phases I and I1 of this effort consisted of constructing 1 1/2 miles of lines along and near Elmira Street. This work was completed in 1990 at a cost of $1,079,426 and was entirely financed by a PennVest loan, at 2% interest for the first 5 years and 4% thereafter. Phase 111, the final phase of the project, is now under construction and will cover 8 1/2 miles of streets in the Township at a total cost of $3,531,500. This work is being financed with a PennVest loan for $3,031,500, at 1% interest, and a $500,000 PennVest grant. Assuming no unexpected problems are experienced during construction, it is estimated that this Phase of the project could be completed for $1,339,500 less than its original $4,871,000 projected cost. a The principal Township sewer lines along Elmira Street are 10 inches and 12 inches in diameter. All of the other mains are 8 inches in diameter, with the exception of a few 6 inch lines on cul-de-sac streets. There are 3 pump stations in the system; one at McDuffee Street, one at the K-Mart Plaza, and the other near the Lynch Elementary School.
J The upgraded plant discharges effluent with no visible suspended solids and a reading of 3-4 mg/liter. The BOD averages 8 mg/liter, well below the allowable limits established by the State Department of Environmental Resources. Sludge from the plant is taken to the Northern Tier Landfill and amounts to approximately 960 tons per year. There are no Township plans at this time for major capital expenditures to extend the public sewer system beyond the limits of the Phase I11 project. However, there are some problem areas in the Township which may require attention in the short to medium term. These problem areas include: Greenslandinq. Malfunctions have been reported in this area, especially in the vicinity of two large mobile home parks located near the intersection of Wolcott Hollow Road with Industrial Park Road. The Township Engineer is currently revising a DER-mandated Study of the area which includes approximately 200 dwelling units in a relatively high density configuration. East Athens. A few malfunctions have also been reported in this area of the Township; a village setting of approximate- ly 100 homes on small lots with sub-surface sewage disposal systems and on-lot wells. Corrections have been made to the sewage systems to the extent possible. 62 Riverside Drive. Houses are built into the bank on one side of the road in this area of the Township and are squeezed between the road and the River on the other side. Malfunc- tions have been reported here as well, and most have been satisfactorily corrected. It may however be uneconomical to construct a sewer line or build a treatment plant to service this area because of the length of line that would be involved and the limited number of users. Lake Macham Development. The package treatment plant that was to have been built to serve this development was never constructed by the developer. Consequently, holding tanks which were permitted on an interim basis are now being used year-round and therefore need to be pumped rather frequent- ly. In order to alleviate some oftheir problems, residents of this development have recently hired an engineer and have submitted an application' to the Department of Environmental Resources to construct a package sewage treatment plant. Once built, the Township Sewer Authority will be asked to assume ownership and maintenance responsibilities for the facility. In the near future, the Township Sewer Authority does plan to take over the ownership, operation and maintenance responsib- ilities for the package treatment plant at the Queen Esther Estates Subdivision. And further, since VEDA has signaled that it will allow the sale of its package treatment plant in the Industrial Park, a 94 lot subdivision being proposed by the Webster family along Industrial Park Road can proceed. At some point in the future, this plant will also likely be taken over by the Sewer Authority. When all possibilities are added together, it appears that the Township Authority could be operating as many as 4 or 5 satellite plants by the end of the decade. (See Map 4 for an illustration of the areas of the Township served by public sewer or package sewage treatment facilities. ) 2. Individual. On-Site Sewase Facilities In the outlying areas of the Township, sewage disposal is provided by individual, on-site sub-surface sewage disposal systems. With the exception of the areas identified above and potential high density or high intensity development sites, very few other areas of the Township will likely ever be provided with community sewer service. Maintenance of existing on-site systems and proper permitting of new systems of this type will therefore be critical to assure proper functioning and avoid over-saturation of the soils and pollution of ground water supplies. Careful consideration should be given to the estab- lishment of a septage management program for the Township where septic tanks are pumped on a regular, periodic basis. With proper maintenance, malfunctions should be kept to a minimum and
63 ll.O*OlO C0""TY LOCATION 'MAP
MAP 4
PUBLIC ti PACKAGE SEWAGE TREATMENT SERVICE AREAS +i
LEGEND
SOURCE: Athens Township sewer Line naps, Athens Tovnship Sewer Authority, 1991.
ATHENS TOWNSHIP BRADFORD COUNTY. PA
costly repairs should be limited. And further, the Township may be able to avoid the need to build costly facilities to correct preventable sewage problems.
C. STORMWATER FACILITIES AND MANAGEMENT Within Athens Township there are no major stormwater problems at the present time. However, there were a few areas where minor ponding had become a problem after periods of prolonged rain or rapid snow melt. Most of these areas, located "between the rivers1#,are currently being addressed through the installation of a storm sewer which will run along Elmira Street, from McDuffee Street to Pine Street. (The Township's contribution to this project was $70,385.) Since the remaining problems can likely be corrected or abated through redesign or reconstruction of Township or State-owned roadways, there'are no plans to provide additional storm sewer facilities in the-Township. The Township may however want to consider the addition of grass or rock-lined swales along many of its dirt roads in the more rural parts of the municipality in order to better channel or guide run-off away from buildings and help maintain the structure of the roadways themselves. Or in areas where such swales or drainage cross-pipes already exist, a diligent maintenance program should be followed to preserve the capacity and intent of the facilities. Dry wells also exist at various locations throughout the cornunity to provide a means of controlling surface water run-off. In addition, the Township has incorporated stormwater management regulations in its recently-revised municipal Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance to address potential future stormwater problems caused by new development. Stormwater management plans, prepared by a professional engineer, must now be submitted to the Township with all proposals involving multi-lot residential and commercial development and for all individual lots where the slope of the site exceeds 15%. Developers are then responsible for installing all necessary stormwater management facilities, including detention and retention basins, swales, seepage pits, etc., to control post-development run-off from their sites. Thus far, plans addressing stormwater issues have been prepared, reviewed and approved by the Township for the Evans Subdivision, near Hillcrest Drive in the central part of the municipality; for the Queen Esther Subdivision, south of Wilawana Road in the northern part of the Township; for the Webster Subdivision, located along Industrial Park Road; and for numerous smaller submissions. These regulations should provide protection for the municipality in the future against uncontrolled stormwater run-off and should help assure that down-stream properties and streams are not adversely affected by increases in stormwater run-of f or excess soil erosion and sedimentation resulting from new subdivisions or land developments.
64 In 1978, the PA General Assembly enacted the PA Stormwater Management Act (Act 167) in an effort to deal with stormwater run- off problems resulting from development. The Act recognized that stormwater can only be managed effectively on a watershed basis. County governments were therefore assigned the responsibility for developing and adopting Watershed Management Plans for each watershed within their jurisdictional limits and for coordinating with neighboring counties where a watershed is located in more than one county. At the present time, Bradford County, through its Planning Commission, is preparing such a Watershed Management Plan for the Wysox Creek Watershed, located near Towanda in the central part of the County. They have proceeded through Phase I of the project, have defined their intended Scope of Study, and are now ready to submit a grant application to the Department of Environ- mental Resources to undertake actual Plan development as Phase 11. With the help of a consulting engineer, they hope to develop a model Plan which can then be used by other rural watersheds throughout the County. Alth-ough they have not as yet identified a sequence for preparation of additional watershed plans, it may be advantageous for them to look closely at the Athens Township area because of the amount of growth being experienced in this region.
D. SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT The Northern Tier Solid Waste Authority operates two landfill disposal facilities, a sanitary landfill in West Burlington Township, Bradford County, and a construction/demolition landfill, located in Hamilton Township, Tioga County, which serve residents of Bradford, Sullivan and Tioga Counties. Municipal and residual wastes collected in Athens Township are sent to Northern Tier's Sanitary Landfill for disposal. This facility is a state-of-the- art, double-lined sanitary landfill, situated on a 77 acre site. According to estimates from the Authority, this facility has a projected life span of 14 years assuming the current 260 tons/day loading rate continues. The Authority also maintains a household hazardous waste program for residents of the tri-county region and is aggressively pursuing an area-wide recycling program, aimed at reducing the volume of waste being disposed at the sanitary landfill, thereby extending its life even further. The Demolition Landfill, the Authority's first solid waste facility, accepts approximately 20 tons of construction/ demolition waste each day. The Authority owns 262 acres at this location, only 60 of which have been or are being used for waste disposal. (An adjacent 60 acre site is also being considered for purchase to be added to this landfill.) If needed, this facility could be lined and used later as a sanitary landfill. The newly-expanded Central Offices of the Northern Tier Solid Waste Authority are also located at this site near Blossburg . The Township is also participating in an extensive local recycl- 65 ing effort and has located a recycling center for its residents on the Township I s Herrick Avenue property., Unfortunately , the market for recyclables has been depressed recently as glass, paper, aluminum and plastics have flooded the market. Over the long term though, the market is expected to improve in response to the national commitment to recycling and these efforts should help reduce the size of the waste stream sent to landfills for disposal.
E. ELECTRIC t NATURAL GAS UTILITIES 1. Electric Service Three electric utility companies serve Athens Township. The smaller companies, Tri-County Rural Electric Co-op and Claverack Electric both buy their power from Pennsylvania Electric Company which serves_- the majority of the residents of Athens Township. Pennsylvania Electric Company (Penelec) serves the Susque- hanna region, as well as other parts of the state. The company serves approximately 552,530 customers in Pennsylvania and 3,606 in New York. Currently they have excellent capacity within the valley region and could accommodate significant growth without building any new power plants. Penelec engineers estimate they have a 20 year power supply. With three 34.5 KV lines, one 115 KV line and a major 230 KV line running through the municipality and 5 substations servicing the area, the engineers believe they can accommodate substantial residential, commercial and indus- trial growth in Athens Township. There are however no plans for expansion or upgrade at this time. Furthermore, they have indicated that they have no plans to bury any existing above- ground electric lines even though underground lines are now required for new subdivisions of 5 or more homes. The Tri-County Rural Electric Co-op serves parts of the Township which are not served by Penelec and areas where their wires are closer to area residents than Penelec's. Tri-County Rural Electric Company officials estimate that approximately 300-500 of their 15,000 customers are located in Athens Township. They service the areas near Round Top Park and west of the Blue Swan Airport. They have their own power lines and since 1975 have been competing with Penelec on the basis of customer distance from their respective power lines. A significant number of rural electric customers in the eastern portion of the Township are served by Claverack Electric. Like the Tri-County Rural Electric Company, Claverack buys power from Penelec, while owning its own power lines.
66 2. Natural Gas Service Residents of Athens Township are served by Valley Cities Gas Service which provides natural gas and propane to its customers. Gas lines in the township are presently located "between the rivers"; in the Greenslanding area; and west of the river along Meadowlark and Wilawana Roads to the Queen Esther subdivision. In other areas west of the river and in the areas east of the river, including East Athens, propane is available to customers without gas line accessibility. Valley Cities Gas Service does expand as warranted and plans to extend service to the Webster Subdivision, along Industrial Park Road. Although the company does not provide a breakdown of its customers by municipality, they currently serve 5,000 gas customers and up to 1,300 propane customers in New York and Pennsylvania.
_- F. CABLE TELEVISION In 1964, the Board of Supervisors of Athens Township awarded a non-exclusive franchise to -Valley TV Cable Company, inc. After several name and ownership changes, the company is now known as Cablevision Industries. Cablevision Industries provides television cable, CATV and Satellite services for Athens Township and other parts of the Valley. Their service area includes Waverly, Nichols, Lockwood, Milan and parts of Chemung and Litchfield. Their total customer base includes 8,383 households with approximately 1,400 customers in Athens Township. Cablevision Industries has considerable expansion capability and could accommodate growth in Athens Township. Antennae for the Cable Company are located in Round Top Park and rental is paid to the Township for use of the site.
67 CHAPTER 7. LAND USE
Perhaps the most basic element of a comprehensive plan is the evaluation of current land uses, which is undertaken to provide information on the various uses and activities that occupy land within the Township. This data is used to provide insights into the function of land use and to determine the relationships that exist between different uses. The manner in which land has been used in the past forms the environment of the present and has implications for the future. The analysis of this data is one step in the process to determine the means necessary to achieve an adequate, efficient and attractive region. Once these existing conditions and relationships are known, the knowledge can be used by municipal officials and citizens to develop goals and objectives for the region that reflect a desire to preserve the existing positive attributes of the community and promote and encourage a better future. The land use element of this Plan has taken into consideration all of the essential physical considerations of the municipality. These considerations include: topography, soils, floodplains and wetlands, and natural resources. This element provides the essential data to determine future land use schemes based upon the availability of developable land and the best and highest use for that ground. Subsequent to the discussion of the Township's physical conditions, a review of the various land uses being experienced in the municipality is presented; 25 year old land area estimates are compared to land use current figures; and projections of future land use needs are presented.
0 A. PHYSICAL FEATURES The review of the physical features of an area is a critical component of a comprehensive plan. Many of these features affect policy planning significantly because of their impact on the area's development potential. The major limiting features in Athens Township appear to be topography, particularly the steep slopes of the ridge areas, and soils geology. Other physically-limiting characteristics of the land, such as floodplains and wetlands, have less impact, althoughthey do exist at various locations throughout the Township. I . ToDosraphv Topography, the nature of the land surface, determines to a great extent the uses for which land can be utilized. The more level the land, the more uses the ground can support. The
68 greater the slope, the more restrictive and limited the potential land uses become. As the slope of the land increases, so does the price for development and the impact of such building on the environment. The topography of Athens Township can best be characterized as river and stream valleys surrounded by rolling hills and mountain ridges. The topography or slope of a sizeable portion of Athens Township greatly limits development potential but nonetheless creates an unusually beautiful landscape. Land level enough for agriculture exists between the ridges, and major residential and commercial activities are found in the valley areas created by the Chemung and Susquehanna Rivers. The topographic map for Athens Township can be divided into three (3) categories of slope; 0-8%, 8-15%, and slopes of over 15%. These three categories were selected for a number of reasons. The 0-8% slope areas generally provide limited topographic constraints for development. The 8-15% areas can be developed in most cases dependent upon engineering design and proper building practices. But, development becomes much more difficult when slopes exceed 15%. Table 23 below illustrates the percentage of Township land that falls in each category.
Table 23 Percent of Slope Development Constraints SloDe % of Land Area
No Restrictions 0-8% 15% Slight 8-15% 50%
Moderate/Severe over 15% 35%
Source: Bradford County Soil Survey, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, August 1986; and Field Survey and Calculations by Landplan, Inc., July 1991.
As shown on the attached topographic map (Map 5), the steepest slopes in the Township are found in the ridge areas in the municipality's northwest corner, along the west bank of the Chemung River Valley, and paralleling Riverside Drive, south of East Athens. Flatter ground is found in the valley areas of the numerous streams and watercourses traversing the Township, especially in the Chemung and Susquehanna River Valleys. Moderate slopes of 8-15% make up the remainder and largest part 69 MAP 5
SLOPE
SOURCE: Athens Township Topographic Quadrangles, U.S. Geological Survey, 1986 .
ATH ENS TOWN SH I P BRADFORD COUNTY, PA of the community's topography. 2. Soils The analysis of soil type and location is also important from several perspectives. Historically, knowledge of soils was necessary from a strictly agricultural viewpoint, but now soils carry implications for development. Construction of buildings, septic tank efficiency and agricultural production are all areas that depend on careful soils analysis for optimum results. The Soil Conservation Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture completed and issued its most recent soil survey for Bradford County in 1986, This document shows that there are three major types or generalized soil groupings in Athens Township. They are Volusia-Mardin-Lordstown (VML) , Dystrochrepts-Oquaga-Wellsboro (DOW), and Alton-Pope-Chenango (APC). Geologic descripti-ons and some general information about each soil grouping or association follows. (See Map 6 for general location of each classification.) Volusia-Mardin-Lordstown Soils. These soils are found on broad hillsides and hilltops dissected by drainageways, with gentle to moderately steep slopes. This grouping is made up of 52% Volusia soils, 14% Mardin soils, 12% Lordstown soils, and 22% minor soils. Volusia soils are deep and somewhat poorly drained. They have a fragipan and a seasonal high water table, Mardin soils are deep and moderately well drained, and they also have a fragipan and seasonal high water table. Lordstown soils however are moderately deep and well drained and do not experience seasonal fluctuations. Minor soils in this grouping include Oquaga, Arnot, Wellsboro and Morris soils and deep Dystrochrepts on uplands: Chippewa soils and Medisaprists in lowlands and swamps: Wyoming, Chenango and Rexford soils onterraces: and Holly and Pope soils and Udifluvents on floodplains. Most of this area with these soils is farmland, the rest is woodland and scattered residential sites. The suitability for cultivated crops and pasture is only fair to good in most areas because of the seasonal high water table and moderate depth to bedrock. Suitability of the very stony soils for crops and pasture is poor. Woodland productivity though is moderately high to high. Moderate depth to bedrock, the seasonal high water table, slow and very slow permeability, and the stony surface limit nonfarm uses of the .soils. In particular, the County Soil Survey shows that all of these soils provide severe limitations to the placement and proper functioning of sub-surface sewage
70 nn.nrnnn CWIIT LOCATION MAP
MAP 6
SOILS
I R LEGEND U 1 I 0Volusia-Mardin-Lordstown I I Dystrochrepts-Oquaga-Wellsboro I I Aiton-Pope-chenango
SOURCE: Bradfoe County Soil Survey, U.S. Oepart- ment of Aqriculture, Soil Conservation Service, Auqust 1986. disposal systems and for the excavation of basements. DvstrochreDts-Oauaua-Wellsboro. The second association of soils are found on mountainsides and in associated stream valleys. These soils are mainly very steep, but some of the soils in the valley areas are nearly level to moderately steep. This soils grouping is composed of about 27% Dystrochrepts, 20% Oquaga soils, 15% Wellsboro soils, and 38% minor soils. Dystrochrepts are well drained to somewhat excessively drained soils. Oquaga soils are moderately deep and are well drained to somewhat excessively drained. Wellsboro soils are deep and are moderately well drained to somewhat poorly drained. They have a fragipan and a seasonal high water table. Minor soils in thls classification include Ochrepts and Lordstown, Arnot, Mardin, and Morris soils on upland areas, along with Rock outcrop; Wyoming and Chenango soils on terraces; and Udifluvents and Linden and Holly soils on floodplains. Most of the areas in this association are wooded. Some areas have been cleared and are being used for farmland or residential sites. Farmed areas are generally in narrow valleys, usually on floodplains or terraces. These soils are also well suited for wildlife habitat and recreational uses. The soils are generally too steep and stony for cultivated crops and pasture. Woodland productivity is low to high, but harvesting is difficult because of steep slopes, rock outcrops, and the extremely stony surface. The steep slope, the extremely stony surface, and moderate depth to bedrock limit nonfarm uses of the soils. The County Soil Survey indicates that the soils of this grouping also provide I1severel1 limitations for the construction of dwellings with basements or for the proper functioning of on-site sewage disposal systems. As a result, residential development in areas with these soils should be served by public or package sewage treatment facilities and basement excavation should be discouraged. Alton-PoDe-Chenanuo. The third association of soils are found on uplands, terraces and floodplains near the Susquehanna and Chemung Rivers and their larger tributaries. The soils on the terraces and nearby uplands are primarily nearly level and gently sloping, but some on side slopes are sloping to very steep. Soils on the floodplains are nearly level. The grouping is made up of about 22% Alton soils, 20% Pope soi.ls, 15% Chenango soils, and 43% minor soils. Alton soils are deep and are well drained to somewhat
71 excessively drained. Pope soils are also deep and well drained, but are occasionally flooded. Chenango soils are deep and are well drained to somewhat excessively drained. Minor soils in this association include Unadilla soils on terraces and Lordstown soils on nearby uplands; Rexford and Braceville soils on terraces; and Holly soils and Udifluvents on floodplains. Most of the soils in this classification have been cleared and are used for farmland and residential sites. A small amount is woodland or is idle. Some of the farmland is in dairy farms, and some is used for growing vegetables and small fruits. Suitability for cultivated crops and pasture is good. Woodland productivity is moderately high to high. Flooding and the possibility of contaminating ground water limit nonfarm uses of these soils and present severe restrictions--to development, including the installation of sub-surface sewage disposal systems. Only llslight'l limitations are presented however for the construction of dwellings with basements in the Alton and Chenango soils, according to the County Soil Survey. Soil types also indicate agricultural production potential. Prime farmland and farmland of statewide importance have been identified by the Soil Conservation Service in the County's Soil Survey. When mapped, it is estimated that as much as 70% of the land in Athens Township shows to be either prime farmland or farmland of statewide importance. (See Map 7.) A brief description of each of these categories, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Important Farmland Inventory Appendix, follows. Prime Farmland. Prime farmland is land that has the best combination of physical-- and chemical characteristics for producing food, feed, forage, fiber and oilseed crops, and is generally available for such uses. The land could be cropland, pastureland, rangeland, forest land, or other land or water.
According to the Soil Survey, a total of eight (8) soil groups qualify as prime farmland soils in Bradford County. They include Alton gravelly sandy loam, Braceville silt loam, Chenago gravelly loam, Linden soils, Lordstown channery silt loam, Mardin channery silt loam, Pope soils, and Wellsboro channery silt loam. Slopes for these soils range from 0 to 8 percent. Most areas of these soils are used for cultivated crops. A few areas are pasture, a few are woodlands, and some provide habitat for wildlife. Where the soils are cultivated, the erosion hazard is slight to moderate. Cover crops, crop rotation, and the use of crop residue and manure control erosion, increase available water
72 a1AOS010 COUNIT LOCATION ' MAP H
MAP 7
AGRICULTURAL SOILS
NOTE: Agricultural soils include cultivated C uncultivated farm fields, pasture and woodland areas. 1 LEGEND
Prime Fadand
Farmland of Statewide Importance 0other and
SOURCE: Bradford county Soil Survey, U.S. Department of Agriculture, soil conser- vation Service, August 1986.
. ATHENS TOWNSHIP BRADFORD COUNTY. PA capacity, and help maintain organic matter content. In many cases, yields decrease during dry years because of the low to moderate available water capacity. And, in some instances, the gravelly surface interferes with seeding and mechanical harvesting of crops. Additional Farmland of Statewide ImDortance. This land, in addition to prime farmland, is farmland of statewide significance for its ability to produce food, feed, fiber, forage and oilseed crops. Another fifteen soil groups qualify as additional farmland of statewide importance, according to the County Soil Survey. They include Holly soils, Lordstown channery silt loam, Mardin channery silt loam, Morris channery silt loam, Oquaga channery silt loam, Rexford silt loam, Volusia channery silt loam, Wellsboro channery silt loam, and Wyoming gravelly sanay loam. Slopes of these soils range from 3 to 15 percent. Typically, many of these soil areas are used for cultivated crops and hayland, and many for pasture. A few areas are used for woodland, and the rest produce wildlife habitat. Erosion hazard for cultivated areas is generally moderate to severe. Use of crop residue, stripcropping, crop rotation, minimum tillage, and diversions reduce run-off and control erosion. Bedrock may however hinder the construction of diversions, The single biggest difference between these soils and prime farmland soils is the slope, Crops are more difficult to plant and harvest as the slope of the land increases, and yields are therefore lower in these areas. Nonetheless, a substantial volume and a great variety of crops are produced in these areas. Approximately 20-25% of the Township land (or between 5,606 to 7,008 acres) is considered prime farmland. As might be expected, the bulk of these prime soils are found along the valleys and floodplains of the Chemung and Susquehanna Rivers and their major tributaries. Several other small areas of high quality soils are scattered throughout the plateaus and terraces of the upland areas of the Township on both sides of the Susquehanna River. The remaining 45-50% of the land designated as valuable farmland (another 12,614 to 14,016 acres) is classified as having statewide importance. These soils are primarily found in the southern half of the Township, in the upland areas of the municipality, on both sides of the Susquehanna River, although there are a few rather sizeable pockets of these soils in the Sayre Hill and Wilawana Road areas.
73 3. Floodplains and Wetlands A rather modest overall portion of the Township is considered to be in a floodplain according to the flood maps prepared for the municipality by the Federal Insurance Administration (FIA), predecessor of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and administrator of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). As a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program, detailed flood maps were prepared for the Township by FIA for all of the major streams and water- courses. These maps illustrate the areas of the community which would be inundated during floods of a 100 and 500 year frequency. For regulatory purposes, the 100 year flood elevations are used. In order to maintain its eligibility in the NFIP, the Township must regulate development occurring in the 100 year floodplain areas of the community. In 1980, the Supervisors adopted provisions aimed at discouraging the placement of vulnerable developments and the investment of sizeable sums of money in these susceptible areas. The flood maps prepared forthe Township further divide the 100 year floodplain into two categories based on intensity of flooding. (See Map 8 for a delineation of the two floodplain categories.) The first area, the floodway, represents that portion of the floodplain which carries the greatest volume of water during a 100 year flood. This area is almost always immediately adjacent to the stream channel and it also must accommodate the highest velocity of flow during a flood event. For this reason, new structural development is prohibited from locating here. It would be virtually impossible to construct a building or structure in this area that could withstand both the hydro-dynamic and hydrostatic forces of a 100 year flood. On the other hand, several different types of non-structural development could be located in a floodway, including a variety of recreational uses and accessory parking areas, The remainder of the 100 year floodplain is identified as the flood fringe area. These areas of the floodplain also experience flooding during a 100 year flood, and in many cases such flooding can reach substantial depths, but they do not carry the intense current or flow found in the floodway. Therefore, residential development may be permitted in these areas, so long as it is floodproofed or elevated so that its first floor is at or above the elevation of the 100 year flood and commercial development may be permitted if it is totally floodproofed, In addition,.the Township also contains several areas which have soils indicating the possibility of wetlands. These too are areas where development should be avoided. Areas containing 74 nn.orono cowrr LOCATION 'MAP II
MAP 8
FLOODPLAINS AND WETLANDS
N NOTE: Additional Wetlands may exist or be identified by DER or other environmental agencies. t II LEGEND
Floodway Floodway Fringe Hydric Soils (Wetlands) I
somCE: Athens Township Flood naps, National Flood Insurance Program, Federal Insurance Admin- istration, April 1980 and Bradford county Soil Survey, W.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, August 1986. hydric soils, or soils characterized by an abundance of moisture, can be found scattered throughout the Township, but are located in almost every case in close proximity to a stream or watercourse. (See Map 8.) Wetlands are a valuable resource for a municipality and should be protected from encroachment to the extent that such is possible- These areas have at least three important functions; they act as natural ponding areas to hold flood waters during times of high water, they act as ground water recharge areas, and they serve as natural habitat areas for many species of wildlife. An Ordinance is currently being prepared and considered by the Township which would provide for local control and regulation of wetland areas. 4 Natural Resources Athens Township is an area of great natural beauty with a significant amount of wooded or forested lands and sizeable areas of prime farmland and farmland of statewide importance. State Game Lands, located in the southwest corner of the municipality, provide 515 acres of ground for hunting or hiking opportunities. And, according to a 1988 Data Book complied for Bradford County by the Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission, the area also has mineral resources, including flagstone, gravel and sand, sandstone, natural gas and some coal.
B. EXISTING LAND USE For planning purposes, the Township's existing land uses can be divided into at least seven different categories: residential, commercial and industrial, public and semi-public, agriculture, forest/woodland, streets and other undeveloped land uses. A brief description and discussion of each category follows, as well as two Tables comparing the approximate percentage and acreage for each of the land uses in 1967 and as they exist today. In addition, Map 9 illustrates the location of each of the existing land uses. 1. Residential This category includes all residential uses - single family homes, multiple family dwellings, farm houses, mobile homes and mobile home parks. The predominant type of dwelling found in Athens Township is the single family home, either older farm houses or newly constructed houses. (A total of 1,231 single family detached dwellings were counted in the 1990 Census.) There are also a significant number of mobile homes located throughout the Township. The greatest number of mobile homes however seem to be located in mobile home parks. (Approximately 350 of the Township's 648 mobile home units are situated in mobile home 75 parks according to a field suwey conducted by Landplan, Inc. in July of 1991.) Additional housing is also provided in the Township in duplex units and other multi-family structures. According to the 1990 census, structures containing 2 or more dwelling units accounted for 117 residential dwelling units. Allowing approximately two-thirds of an acre of land for each dwelling unit, it is estimated that in 1990 approximately 1200 acres of land in the Township, or about 4.3% of the Township's total land area, was devoted to residential use. Although at one time the bulk of the residential development in the Township was situated primarily adjacent to major streets or highways or was located in the urbanized areas of the community, that does not necessarily seem to be the trend in more recent years. While-developmenthas continued to occur in the urbanized core of the community and several sizeable subdivisions have been approved in this area in the past 10 years, especially in the northern portions of this area, new, large scale developments have begun to locate throughout the Township, along minor collector streets and local roads. Such residential development includes the Queen Esther Estates, located just south of Wilawana Road in the northcentral part of the Township; Stover's Acres, situated on the north side of Wilawana Road; and the Highlands Subdivision, along Orange Hill Road in the Township's southeastern section. The proposed Webster Subdivision, along Industrial Park Road, is another example of sizeable development being located in the more rural segments of the municipality. Athens Township will in all probability continue to experience residential growth and development in the future as workers attracted to businesses and industries in the Valley, the Towanda area, and nearby New York Counties seek desireable places to live within reasonable proximity of their work sites, and as sewage treatment facilities are extended or built to serve various areas of the municipality. And, although the volume of subdivisions being submitted to the Township for consideration has decreased in recent months, probably in response to current market conditions, all indications are that housing construction and residential growth will resume in the short term, In fact, the possibility of creating another 2 100- lot subdivision in the Wilawana Road area, near the Wesleyan Church, on the former Myron Rosh farm, is already being investigated. The majority of the land area in the neighboring Boroughs is already developed and the most accessible, available location remaining that can provide new home sites for individuals attracted to the area is Athens Township. As long as satisfactory soils can be found for the placement of on- site, sub-surface sewage disposal systems (or package treatment
76 plants are provided) and sufficient water supply can be located, residential development will continue in Athens Township.
2. Commercial and Industrial This category includes all business establishments, includ- ing wholesale and retail trade activities, personal service operations, finance, insurance and real estate off ices, auto and equipment repair shops, professional services and entertainment enterprises, restaurants and other food service establishments, as well as all industrial operations. A recent field survey conducted by Landplan, Inc, and supplemented by the Township Planning Commission identified over 130 commercial businesses and/or industrial establishments in the Athens Township. Although the majority of this activity is located along Elmira Street and in the urbanized core of the municipality, and in some-of the village centers, such as East Athens and Greenslanding, the field survey found a number of home occupations and small businesses scattered throughout the rural parts of the Township. (See Appendix B for a list of businesses in the Township.) Although there are no exact figures available to indicate the specific amount of land that is devoted to commercial and industrial use, primarily because of the high number of in-home or rural business activities, it is estimated to be a reasonably small amount, compared to the Township as a whole: probably about 1% overall, or about 300 acres. Additional commercial or industrial development along Elmira Street or in the Greens- landing area, could however increase this percentage slightly in the future. It is reasonable to expect some future commer- cial or industrial growth in the area of the Township between the Chemung and Susquehanna Rivers, especially since most of this area will have access to public sewer and water facilities once the Township completes its current sewer line extension project. And, industrial development may also occur in the Route 220 corridor south of Greenslanding. Still other areas of the Township may be identified or targeted for future commercial/industrial development once all of the background information is assimilated and suitable areas can be identified, 3. Public/Semi-Public Public and semi-public land use includes land set aside for government and municipal buildings, religious and cultural facilities, social or health service operations, parks and recreation areas, cemeteries, publically-owned land areas, public meeting places or community halls, and schools or other educational facilities. The two biggest tracts contributing to the acreage in this
77 category are the Township's 565-acre recreational facility, Round Top Park, and the 640 acres of State' Game Lands. In addition, there are numerous religious, social and educational facilities located throughout the municipality, as well as 70 acres associated with the Blue Swan Airport. It is therefore estimated that as much as 1400 acres, or just about 5% of the Township's total land area, is devoted to this category of land use 4. Aariculture This category includes all those lands used for agricultural purposes, including land used for cultivation, pastureland or space occupied by buildings providing storage or associated processing facilities. A large portion of the Township is devoted to agricultural usage. As pointed out in-the soils section of this Chapter, about 70% of the municipality's total land area has soils which a are classified as either prime or as having statewide importance for agricultural production. While much of this area is covered by forests or woodlands (see Section 5 below) and some has been used for residential development, it is estimated that about 46% of the total Township acreage (approximately 13,000 acres) is currently being used for agricultural purposes. Much of the land suitable for prospective urbanization is presently in agricultural production. It is anticipated that within the next 10-15 years, agricultural use will decrease more than any other element of the land use system. As much as 1000- 1,250 acres of farmland could be lost to development. With farming acreage declining, the alternatives and possibilities for development will increase. Guiding future land use distrib- ution in a balanced fashion must however include the retention and preservation of agricultural lands in harmony with realistic economic trends and in recognition of the desirability for open, rural land for other types of activities or uses. One way that farmland can be protected against encroachment is through the establishment of Agricultural Security Areas. In 1982 the PA Legislature enacted Act 43 which authorized the establishment of such Areas in the Commonwealth as a means of preserving valuable agricultural acreage. The program allows farmers to petition the Township Supervisors to create a Security Area where at least 500 acres of land is involved. The acreage need not be contiguous and can involve several property owners. Participation in a Security Area is voluntary and applications must be initiated by the property owner(s). Once the Agricultural Security Area is set up, it entitles the participating property owners to special consideration from local and state governments, The local government for example may not impose regulations which unreasonably restrict farm 78 structures and practices, nor may normal farming operations be considered a v'nuisancel'when executed properly or with care. And, State agencies must require special reviews whenever local authorities propose condemning agricultural land in order to ensure that the municipality has explored all reasonable and prudent alternatives. In 1987, Pennsylvania voters overwhelmingly voted in favor of establishing a $100 million bond issue for the purchase of agricultural preservation easements. Legislation was then developed which allowed counties to assess, negotiate and purchase the development rights of farms or farm ground situated in an approved Agricultural Security Area as a further means of preserving the agricultural integrity of the land. Many counties in the state have made the appropriate financial and policy commitments to the program, have created the necessary review boards, and have . actually begun purchasing the development rights to faridlands in their jurisdictions. a Athens Township currently has one large Agricultural Security Area. It contains 4,217.49 acres of land, scattered throughout the Township, and involves 15 different property owners. This Security Area, which originally contained only 1,298 acres of land, was the first to organize in Bradford County (it preceded all other applications in the County by five years), and it was the first Agricultural Area established in the state. Bradford County now has approximately 123,900 acres in Agricultural Security Areas in 27 municipalities and the Commissioners are currently considering the adoption of a Countywide Agriculture Preservation Program which would authorize the purchase of development rights in the designated Areas. In 1992, the Athens Township Supervisors accepted applications to re-establish and enlarge the communityls original Agricultural Security Area and, as a result, where able to more than triple the Area's size to its current acreage and involve ten additional land owners.
5. Forest/Woodlands The intent of this category is to separate all woodland areas of the Township from other land uses and to recognize them as a significant use of their own. Like other types of agriculturaluses, woodland areas occupy a fairly substantial portion of the Township; about 37%-38% of the total land area, or about 10,550 acres is estimated. Much of the woodland areas are located along the steep side slopes of the Township's ridge areas west of U.S. Route 220 and east of Riverside Drive. Figures from the mid-1960's indicate that there were approximately 10,700 acres of forest land in Athens Township at that time. And, even though it seems reasonable to assume that
79 some of these areas have fallen prey to destruction to make way for development, the overall percentage really has not decreased that much in the past 25 years and should probably not decrease all that much more in the next 10 to 15 years. Conscientiously- applied conservation practices should help to preserve this valuable resource for future generations, thereby helping to maintain as much of the natural stormwater retention capacity provide by the trees as possible.
6. Streets and Railroads This category includes all streets, highways, railroads, rights-of-way and easements in the Township used for public access.
As noted in Chapter 9 of this Plan (Transportation), there are 109.01 miles of public roadways in Athens Township. Thus, assuming an average 38 Eoot right-of-way for all roads, the total acreage involved in this category calculates to be about 500 acres, or 1.8% of all land area. This percentage may increase somewhat in the future as new accessways are constructed to accommodate development in the community, but is not expected to increase dramatically. Although at one time railroads were frequently utilized as a means of transportation, both for people and freight, their usage has deceased so dramatically over the past 50 years that hundreds of miles of track have been abandoned and removed in the Valley region alone. Where there were as many as 124 acres occupied by railroads in Athens Township in 1967, by 1991 that number had fallen to approximately 40 acres, or .14% of the Township's total land area.
7. Other UndeveloDed Lands and Water This category includes all types of l8undevelopedt1land uses or activities, such as floodplains, wetlands, aquifer recharge areas, streams, ponds, and other similar uses not included in any other category. It is estimated that approximately 940 acres (or 3.4% of the total Township acreage) are occupied by water at the present time. Another 150 acres, or .54%, are considered undeveloped.
Table 24 below shows the total acreage of land utilized by each category of land use in 1967 and Table 25 presents the acreages existing today. A comparison of the figures contained in both Tables further documents the fact that growth has been experienced in the Township over the past 25 years and that such growth was accomplished at the expense of agriculture land.
80 anaorono coumrv
LOCATION ' MAP
MAP 9
EXISTING LAND USE
N PQ 1 LEGEND
Commercial and Industrial Public/Semi-Public 0 Agriculture & Undeveloped Table 24 Athens Township Land Use - 1967
DeveloDed Land Uses
Land Use Estimated Acreaae % of Developed Land Residential 600 acres 34.9 % Commercial 34 acres 2.0 % Industrial 6- acres 0.3 % Public/Semi Public 505 acres 29.4 % Streets 450 acres 26.2 % Railroads 124 acres 7.2 %
TOTAL DEVELOPED 1,719 acres 6.1 % of Total Area*
UndeveloDed Land Uses
Land Use Estimated Acreaae % of Undeveloped Land Agricultural 14,500 acres 55.1 % Woodland 10,699 acres 40.6 % Water 939 acres 3.6 % 0 Other Undeveloped 175 acres 0.7 %
TOTAL UNDEVELOPED 26,313 acres 93.9 % of Total Area*
* Total Township area - approximately 28,032 acres
Source: Valley Region Master Plan, Seymour Stillman, Planning Consultant, 19 67.
81 Table 25 Athens Township Land Use - 1991
DeveloDed Land Uses
Land Use Estimated Acreaae % of Developed Land Residential 1,200 acres 34.9 % Commercial/Industrial 300 acres 8.7 % Public/Semi Public 1,400- acres 40.7 % Streets 500 acres 14.5 % Railroads 40 acres 1.2 %
TOTAL DEVELOPED 3,440 acres 12.3 % of Total Area*
UndeveloDed Land Uses
Land Use Estimated Acrease % of Undeveloped Land
Agricultural 13,000 acres 52.9 % Woodland 10,500 acres 42.7 % Water 940 acres 3.8 % Other Undeveloped 152 acres 0.6 %
TOTAL UNDEVELOPED 24,592 acres 87.7 % of Total Area*
* Total Township area - approximately 28,032 acres
Source: Field Survey by Landplan, Inc., July 1991; U.S.G.S. Topographic Maps, 1986; and Bradford County Soil Survey, August 1986. Calculations by Landplan, Inc., January 1992.
82 C. FUTURE LAND USE NEEDS Estimates of land acreages needed to accommodate future growth and development in the Township are provided in Table 26 below and are illustrated on Map 10, the Future Land Use Recommendations Map, located in Chapter 10.
Table 26 Athens Township Future Land Use Needs 1992-2010
Developed Land Uses _-
Land Use Estimated Acrease % of Developed Land
Residential 1,800 acres 35.8 % Commercial/Industrial 1,000 acres 19.9 % Public/Semi Public 1,600 acres 31.8 % Streets 592 acres 11.7 % Railroads 40 acres 0.8 %
TOTAL DEVELOPED 5,032 acres 17.9 % of Total Area*
Undeveloped Land Uses
Land Use Estimated Acreacre % of Undeveloped Land
Agricultural 11,750 acres 51.1 % Woodland 10,200 acres 44.3 % Water 940 acres 4.1 % Other Undeveloped 110 acres 0.5 %
TOTAL UNDEVELOPED 23,000 acres 82.1 % of Total Area*
* Total Township area - approximately 28,032 acres
Source: Estimates by Landplan, Inc., July 1992.
83 Chapter 8 HOUSING A. HOUSING PROFILE
Conventional single family detached homes comprise over 60% of the housing supply in Athens Township. Mobile homes, which make up approximately 30% of the total housing units, according to both the 1990 U.S. Census and the Bradford County Office of Assessment, are the second most prevalent form of housing. Almost 55% of these mobile homes are located in mobile home parks within the Township. There are only a limited number of multi-family dwellings located in the Township. This is most likely due to the lack of sewer capacity which impacted .development in the Township until recently. Table 27 breaks down the housing stock composition of the Township according to the most recent Census data.
Table 27 Athens Township Housing Characteristics 1990
Tme of Unit Number of Units % of Total
Single Family Detached 1,231 61.7% Mobile Home, trailer, other 648 32.4%
Housing in 2-4 Unit 55 2.8% Structures
Housing in 5-9 Unit 24 1.2% Structures
Housing in 10 or more Unit 34 1.7% Structures Single Unit Attached, 4 .2% Row Houses
TOTALS 1,996 100.0%
Source: U.S.' Bureau of Census, Census of Population and Housing, Selected Population and Housing Characteristics, 1990. a4 The distribution of the different types of housing units in Athens Township is generally similar to the breakdown for neighboring municipalities, as well as the County as a whole. As Table 28 illustrates, approximately two-thirds of the housing units in each of the locations are conventional, or single family detached dwellings. In the Townships, another 30% of the total number of housing units are mobile homes, while Countpi.de mobile homes comprise slightly less than 20% of the total housing stock. Other types of dwellings, including multi-family structures, provide the remaining housing units; 2 5% in the Townships and almost 15% throughout the County. (The number of multi-family residential units is considerably higher in the Boroughs of the County because of the proximity to public sewer and water facilities in these areas and the lack of space for the placement of mobile homes.)
Table 28 Valley Area Housing Characteristics Comparison 1990
Percentage of Total Units Conventional Location Sinsle Familv Mobile Homes Other
BRADFORD COUNTY 66.4% 19.0% 14.6% Athens Township 61.7% 32 .4% 5.9% Litchfield Township 67.7% 29.5% 2.8%
Ridgebury Township 61.3% 35.9% 2.8%
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population and Housing, Summary of Housing Characteristics, 1990.
Over the last 20 years the biggest jump in the number of housing units came between 1970 and 1980, when the total increased by 42.9%. A modest 7.7% increase in the number of units occurred between 1980 and 1990. This recent increase however matches the total percentage increase in the number of housing units statewide, according to the U.S. Census. Table 29 tracks the number of units, and the proportion of mobile homes as a percentage of those units from 1970 to 1990, It is interesting to note that while the total number of dwelling units in the Township increased by 143 between 1980 and 1990, the percentage of single family homes in the total 85 actually decreased by 4.3%. On the other hand, the number of mobile homes increased by 138 in the same 10-year period, thereby increasing the overall percentage of these units by 5%. The slight decline in the number of multi-family units between 1980 and 1990 is likely due to a difference in the methods used by the Census Bureau to count such units in the two censuses.
Table 29 Athens Township Housing Unit Comparison
1970, 1980, and 1990
1970 . 1980 1990 -. - Conventional * 1,223 1,231 Single Family (66.0%) (61.7%) Mobile Homes, * 510 648 trailers, other (27.5%) (32.5%)
Multi-family units * 12 0 117 ( 6.5%) ( 5.8%)
TOTALS 1,297 1,865 1,996 * Information not available from 1970 Census. Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Powlation and Housing, Housing Unit Structural Characteristics, 1570, 1980, & 1990.
Table 30 tracks the number of permitted conventional single family and mobile homes added to the Athens Township housing stock since 1984. (Mobile home replacements in mobile home parks were not included in the table since permits are not required by the Township for these units.) The net number of mobile homes added to the housing stock as compared with the total number of single family units added over the last 6 years shows that mobile homes comprised approximately 21% of new single family housing unit construction. Thus it appears that the reliance on mobile homes is decreasing slightly. This is surprising since the 1990 Census found the number of mobile homes within the state increased 45% in the last decade, as compared with an 8% increase in the number of single family homes. Mobile homes make up approximately 5% of the housing stock statewide. On the other hand, Athens Township currently has a higher proportion of mobile homes due to its rural
86 character and income levels. According to the Township Planning Commission, one application is currently pending for a 75-lot mobile home park. Well designed park applications in conformance with the Township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance are encouraged as construction standards within the mobile home industry are continually improving.
Table 30 Athens Township Single Family Home Growth 1984-1990
Gross # Estim. Net Conventional Mobile Net Mobile Total Sincrle Fam. Homes Homes Units
-. - 1984 17 7 5 22
1985 23 6 4 27
1986 18 6 4 22
1987 26 8 5 31
1988 22 13 9 31 1989 23 5 3 26
1990 17 14 9 36 - TOTALS 146 59 39 185
Source: Athens Township Planning Commission, Building Permit data, 1984-1990.
In addition to having a majority of single family detached housing units with a significant number of mobile homes, Athens Township has a high level of owner occupied homes of all types. According to the 1990 Census, 83.4% of the occupied housing units were owned, leaving only 16.6% of the occupied homes as rental units. This shows a high level of neighborhood stability. The Census found a very low home owner vacancy rate of 2.2% and a moderate rental vacancy rate of 8.7%. Based on these vacancy rate statistics, renters have a relatively easy time finding living space in the Township. Nearly 80% of the housing stock was built after 1940. This
87 indicates Athens Township has a young housing stock compared to many other municipalities in the northeast. This is somewhat offset by the number of non-park mobile homes in the Township, since mobile homes, unless properly installed and roofed, do not hold up as well as conventional housing. However, mobile homes in mobile home parks are generally in good or fair condition. Housing conditions are discussed in detail in the next section of this chapter.
B. HOUSING CONDITIONS A housing conditions survey was conducted by Landplan, Inc. as part of this planning effort, and was completed in October of 1991. (See Appendix H for a copy of the survey form and rating criteria used during this field work.) This survey, combined with information about housing values supplements the housing profile, and provides a more complete-pictureof housing conditions. The following table was constructed from the data obtained and compares the condition of conventional single family homes with mobile homes in the Township.
Table 31 Athens Township Condition of Housing Units 1991 Single Family Conventional Mobile Homes Condition # of Units %/Total # of Units %/Total
Good 774 63.6% 238 37.4% Fair 333 27.4% 291 45.6% Deteriorating 85 7.0% 100 15.7% Dilapidated 25 2.0% 8 1.3%
TOTALS 1,217 100.0% 637 100 .0% Source: Visual survey conducted by Landplan, Inc., July 1991.
The statistics indicate a potential for deterioration of the mobile home housing stock, particularly outside of mobile home parks. Mobile homes without pitched roofs or foundations are often more prone to deterioration. While most mobile homes were found in good or fair condition, a significant minority were deterior- ating. It is interesting to compare the condition of mobile home units in mobile home parks with the condition of free standing mobile homes. The table below provides a comparison.
88 Table 32 Athens Township Condition of Mobile Homes 1991 Within Mobile Outside of Mobile Home Parks Home Parks Condition # of Units %/Total # of Units %/Total
Good 176 50.3% 62 21.6% Fair 151 43.1% 14 0 48 .8% Deteriorating 23 6.6% 77 26.8% Dilapidated -- -- 8 2.8%
TOTALS 350-- 100.0% 287 100.0%
Source: Visual survey conducted by Landplan, Inc., July 1991.
The following table shows a distribution of conventional home values as determined by the Bradford County Assessment Office during a reassessment in 1990. These values are compared with the values of owner-occupied homes estimated by the 1990 Census. The market value of a conventional or mobile home is a factor which, to a degree, indicates of the condition of a home. Bradford County recently completed a reassessment of all its taxable units, includ- ing all of the housing and land within Athens Township. Although the values of many properties are currently under challenge, preliminary results are reviewed below.
Table 33 Athens Township Value of Owner-Occupied Housing Units h Land 1990 Census * Assessment ** Value # of Units %/Total # of Units %/Total
Less than $50,000 276 33.1% 115 33.8% $50,000-$99,999 350 42.0% 162 47.6% $100,000-149,999 131 15.7% 36 10.5% $150,000-199,999 44 5.3% 14 4.2% $200,000-299,999 27 3.2% 10 3.0% $300,000 or More 5 .6% 3 .9%
TOTALS 033 100 0 0% 340 100 0 0% Median Value $67,900
* Based on sample of 833 out of 1,532 owner-occupied units, (Rental units not included. )
** Based on sample of 340 owner-occupied units,
Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population and Housing, Selected Population and Housing Characteristics, 1990, and Bradford County Assessment Office, 1991.
The County Assessment Office found 63 fewer mobile home units in Athens Township during the 1991 reassessment than were counted during the 1990 Census. This may reflect a differing definition of mobile home or poor accounting by one or both of these agencies. During the housing survey conducted by Landplan, Inc., a total of 637 mobile home units were identified. This indicates that regardless of the exact count, the overall proportion of mobile homes within the Township is still approximately one third of the total number of housing units, The value of mobile homes within Athens Township is signif- icantly less than that of other single family homes. This reflects the lower cost construction and smaller average size of mobile homes. The next table breaks down the value of the mobile home units assessed by the County. (Mobile homes in mobile home parks do not include land, as in the previous Table.)
Table 34
Athens Township Value of Mobile Homes 1991
Number of % of Market Value Mobile Homes * Total Less than $5,000 35 14.9% $5,000 -9,999 93 39.6% $10,000-19,999 102 43.4%
$20,000-29,999 4 1.7% $30,000-39,999 1 .4%
TOTALS 235 100.0% 90 * Based on sample of 235 out of 585 mobile home units.
Source: Bradford County Assessment Off ice, 1991.
C. HOUSING NEEDS ASSESSMENT Athens Township has no low and moderate income subsidized housing for elderly or families. Therefore, Township residents must go outside the Township or be served by Section 8 rental vouchers. Currently there are just over 20 families within the Township receiving low/moderate income rental (Section 8) vouchers according to the Bradford County Housing Authority Office. Other families and the elderly are served by one of the following nearby projects located within the County.
Table 35 Rental-Assisted Housing in Bradford County 1992
I. Tioqa/Bradford Housina Authority Facilities
Citv/Location Project/Address Total Units TVDB
Athens Boro. Page Manor 100 Elderly
Canton Canton Townhouses 20 Family McCallum Manor 50 Elderly
North Towanda Senior Citizens 100 Elderly Apartments Sayre Keystone Manor 100 Elderly
Troy Hillcrest Apartments 40 Elderly
Wyalusing Park Place 30 Elderly
TOTAL 440
(Continued on Next Page)
91 11. Privatelv-Owned, Government-Financed Housins Projects
Citv/Location Proj ect/Address Total Units TYDe
~
Athens Boro. Chemung View 100 Elderly Twin Rivers 80 Family Towanda Chest Hill Apts. 24 Family Troy Sugar Creek Apts. 15 Family
Canton (under construction) 30 Family
TOTAL 249 -. -
111. Existins Section 8 Rental Assistance (Private Housina)
Location # of Units
Athens Township 23 Sayre Borough 46 Other Locat ions 181
TOTAL 250 Source: Tioga/Bradford Housing Authority, 1991, and Athens Township Planning Commission, 1992.
Athens Township could be eligible for the location of assisted rental housing units since it has recently extended sewer lines and increased its sewer service area. Currently, the housing authority does not see a need for more elderly units because some vacancies exist within the present system. The Housing Authority does however believe there is a need for more family units of rental- assisted housing. It appears that within Athens Township the needs of lower income families are being met, in part, by owner occupied mobile homes. Unfortunately, those without the resources for land and utilities, cannot take advantage of this option. Since the parks are full, and one large park in New York recently closed, housing assistance programs may be needed. These could include down payment assistance, low interest loans, rehabilitation grants and loans, as well as moderate income subdivision development and mobile home park development incentives, including public
92 utilities. As indicated by the Housing Conditions Survey, many mobile homes in the Township are in poor condition. A housing assistance program including assistance for mobile home owners, in particular for maintenance and building foundations, and assistance for conventional home owners for renovations and related deferred maintenance problems might be appropriate. It is important to consider the administrative guidelines of any housing program under consideration. In order to be effective, a rehabilitation housing program would have to be presented in such a way that it could be easily used by do-it-your-selfers. Often government programs require obtaining at least two cost estimates prior to hiring a contractor, with no opportunity for the home owner to do the work himself. Another barrier is the fact that competitive building contractor estimates are often difficult to obtain in a rural area. Flexibility in regards to administration must be considered when planning a housing assistance program for a rural area. Despite these difficulties, there are funding sources at the state and federal level for housing that should be explored, such as the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, the Farmers Home Administration, the PA Department of Community Affairs Housing Assistance Grant programs, the Federal Department of Hous- ing and Urban Development, and in the private sector, the Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh, the Enterprise Foundation and Habitat for Humanity. Another factor of housing need is affordability. It is important to maintain enough affordable housing stock forthe needs of low and moderate income wage earners within the Township. The following table shows a breakdown of contract rents charged within the Township.
Table 36 Athens Township Contract Rent for Renter-Occupied Housing Units 1990 Contract Rent * j# of Units ** 3 of Total less than $250 99 36.8%
$250 to $499 166 61.7%
$500 to $749 3 1.1%
$750 to $999 1 .4% $1,000 or more -- --
TOTALS 269 100.0%
93 Median Rent $ 270
* Does not include utilities. ** Based on sample of 269 rental units out of 304 total rental units identified by the Census Bureau. Source: U.S. Bureau of Census, Census of Population and Housing, Selected Population and Housing Characteristics, 1990.
A median rent of $278 would be affordable to a family earning approximately $16,000 per year. This is based on 28% of gross income for rent and utilities as an affordable figure for a lower income family. Obviously, if the rent included utilities, the family served could have a significantly lower income, The rental market appears to be adequately serving lower income individuals and families. _-
D. HOUSING AND BUILDING CODES The Township has no housing or building codes in place. The adoption of an up-to-date code could be very beneficial to the Township, Building codes address safety, durability, functional characteristics, and water and energy conservation. A housing code would address health issues at a minimum. If desired, a building code could require all new homes in the Township to have water conserving features, such as low flow toilets or energy conserving features, such as extra insulation. These measures could help the whole Township by keeping utility costs low. In Athens Township, the case for a building code is largely connected with concerns over possible sub-standard construction of commercial structures including apartments. Most Commission and Committee members feel that single family construction is not a @ problem. Accordingly, the Township Supervisors may want to consider a code for commercial construction or guide lines. As far as a housing code is concerned, it would primarily deal with health concerns such as room size, ceiling height, water temperature, screens, garbage storage and removal, number of inhabitants per room and per dwelling unit, square feet of counter- space, etc. This type of ordinance is not usually adopted unless there is a potential for a very large number of lower income apartments, The Township must consider the administration time and attention needed for a building or housing code. These costs must be weighed against the potential benefits.
94 CHAPTER 9. TRANSPORTATION
A. ROAD AND HIGHWAY TRANSPORTATION NETWORK One of the most significant factors that must be considered in planning for the controlled and systematic growth of an area is the requirement that adequate provision be made for the safe and efficient movement of people and goods both into and through the municipality. Transportation is an important key to future growth in Athens Township and throughout the Valley region and the road or highway system may well be the most critical mode of transporta- tion available at the present time. Improvement of U.S. Route 220 as it runs through the Township from a two-lane highway to a divided four-lane, controlled-access arterial roadway and the community's proximity to NY Route 17 have served as inducements for business and industry and new residents to consider locating in the Valley area. Accessibility to markets and a good transportation network are vital to attracting new industrial development to any given location. Since motor vehicles are the most important means of rapid transportation in use in the Township today, roads must be built and maintained that will function as intended in order to facilitate progress and spur future development. However, because road design and construction are major expenses for municipal governments, the future transportation network in the region will likely be located following established circulation patterns. (See Part C of this Chapter for details of the community's circulation patterns. ) Numerous aspects of the system need to be examined in order to determine the type of road network that exists in the Township. When coupled with an evaluation of the problems being experienced within the system, several recommendations can be made for short- term and long-term improvements. This Part of the Chapter assesses the existing highway network, Part B presents an analysis of the system's problems, and Part C sets forth some of the projects needed and some that have already been identified to improve the network. Parts D, E, and F look at some of the other types of transportation services available in the Township and in the immediate area.
1. Functional Classification The incompatibility of the two major functions of a highway network, that of providing access to property and moving traffic, require a classification aimed at separating roads by function. A functional classification designation identifies
95 the role that each roadway plays in the total circulation network within and frequently outside of the municipality, Further, such designation implies certain constraints (i,e. limiting access points) and/or postings (i.e. speed limits, road usage and directional signage, etc. ) which should be imposed and maintained to assure safe driving conditions. The Table below provides a general description of the various types of road and highway functional classifications and some examples of each type of roadway in the Township.
Table 37 Road Classification Descriptions Mai or Arterials Roadways that provide for movement of large volumes of through traffic between regions and major metropolitan areas. They generally serve long-distance interstate and intrastatetraffic and are usually limited access freeways or expressways. (Examples - Interstate 81 and NY Route 17) Minor Arterials Roadways that provide for movement of large volumes of through traffic between centers of regional importance and provide connections between major arterials and collector roads. Access is also generally restricted. (Example- U.S. Route 220) Mai or Collectors Roadways which provide for inter-community travel within the region and provide connec- tions to the arterial network, Access to and from these routes is generally unrestricted. (Examples - PA Route 199, Main Street/Keystone Ave.; State Route 1069, Elmira Street; State Route 1068, Lockhart Street; SR 1043, Riverside Drive; and SR 1056, Front Street) Minor Collectors Roadways which connect local traffic genera- tors, community facilities, major subdivisions and rural village centers. (Examples - State Route 4022, Wilawana Road; SR 4020, Mile Lane Road; SR 4018, Wolcott Hollow Road; SR 1054, Orange Hill Road; and T-324, Sunnyfield Drive) Local Streets Roadways which provide access to abutting properties and minor subdivisions, Movement of traffic is generally at slower speeds. (Examples - the majority of the Township road network) The following table is a listing of all of the roadways in 96 the Township and their functional classifications.
Table 38 Roadway Functional Classifications
ROADWAY NAME & NUMBER CLASSIFICATION
State Routes
NY Route 17 SR 0017 Major Arterial PA Route 199 SR 0199 Major Collector US Route 220 SR 0220 Minor Arterial Riverside Drive/ Sheshequin Road SR 1043 Major Collector Ridge Road SR 1052 Minor Collector Orange Hill Road SR -1-054 Minor Collector Front Street SR 1056 Major Collector Center Street SR 1060 Minor Collector Cayuta Street SR 1062 Minor Collector Pine Street SR 1064 Major Collector McDuf fee Street/ Lincoln Street SR 1066 Minor Collector Lockhart Street SR 1068 Major Collector Elmira Street SR 1069 Major Collector Shephard Road SR 1071 Minor Collector Wolcott Hollow Rd.SR 4018 Minor Collector Mile Lane Road SR 4020 Minor Collector Wilawana Road SR 4022 Minor Collector Stone Lick Road SR 4024 Minor Collector Township Roads
Alleyhoot Road T-322 Local Street Baxter Street T-218 Local Street Beacraft Street T-104 Local Street Beaver Pond Road T-3 14 Local Street Bensley Street T-102 Local Street Birch Lane T-110 Local Street Blue Bird Road T-328 Local Street Bowman Road T-327 Local Street Bressler Street T-225 Minor Collector Brown Road T-107 Local Street Campbell Road T-120 Local Street Center Street T-217 Minor Collector Chamberlain Road T-330 Local Street Chapman Road T-116 Local Street Clinton Street T-223 Minor Collector Cole Street T-205 Local Street Cole Hollow Road T-121 Minor Collector
97 Dominic Pace Indus- trial Parkway T-105 Minor Collector Dunkley Hill Road T-311 Local Street Elsbree Lane T-304 Local Street Ellistown Road T-101 Local Street Farr Road T-325 LocalStreet/MinorCollector Forest Lane T-118 Local Street Fourth Street T-103 Local Street Gameland Road T-329 Local Street Green Mountain Dr. T-117 Local Street Herrick Avenue T-224 LocalStreet/MinorCollector Highland Drive T-310 LocalStreet/MinorCollector Hillcrest Drive T-211 LocalStreet/MinorCollector Hoover Road T-222 Local Street Industrial Park Rd. T-3 19 Minor Collector Jacklin Road T-307 Local Street Jacob Street T-2Q9 Local Street Joy Street Ty20 3 Local Street Kirby Street T-113 Local Street Lambert Street T-210 Local Street Laurel Lane T-336 Local Street Lawton Street T-221 Local Street Lewis Street T-219 Local Street Lilley Avenue T-226 Local Street Local Service Rd. T-227 Local Street Macafee Road T-332 LocalStreet/MinorCollector McCardle Road T-308 Local Street McHinney Hill Road T-115 Local Street Meadowlark Road T-303 Local Street Miller Road T-111 Local Street Mink Ranch Road T-309 Local Street Moore Road T-109 Local Street Murphy Road T-323 Local Street Murray Creek Rd. T-321 Local Street North Road T-331 Local Street Oak Field Drive T-3 13 Local Street Oak Hill Road T-302 Local Street Orcutt Creek Road T-306 Local Street Pennsylvania Ave. T-208 Minor Collector Pine Tree Road T-214 Local Street Pine Tree Road Ext. T-215 Local Street Prospect Street T-220 Local Street Pump Station Hill Road T-318 Minor Collector Queen Esther Drive T-335 Local Street Reagan Road T-326 Local Street Rosh Road T-2 13 LocalStreet/MinorCollector Round Top Road T-317 Minor Collector Sandra Avenue T-206 Local Street Sayre Hill Road T-108 LocalStreet/MinorCollector Sharon Avenue T-204 Local Street Short Street T-112 Local Street
98 South Road T-114 Local Street Sunnyfield Drive T-324 LocalStreet/MinorCollector Sutliff Hill Rd. T-320 Local Street Tannery Road T-334 Local Street Tara Parkway T-207 Local Street Thurston Road T-333 Local Street Tutelow Creek Rd. T-312 Local Street Valley View Lane T-119 Local Street Vallilee Place T-212 Local Street Vetter Road T-305 LocalStreet/MinorCollector Vista Drive T-202 Local Street Washington Street T-201 Local Street Weaver Road T-315 Local Street Westbrook Street T-216 LocalStreet/MinorCollector West Park Road T-316 Local Street White Wagon Road T-301 Local Street Wildwood Drive T-.lO6 Local Street _-
2. Ownership/Responsibilitv As illustrated above, roadway ownership/responsibility can be separated into two major classifications within the Township : State-owned rights-of-way and local or Township-owned rights- of-way. Routes designated IuPAuuor luSRuuare umownedutand maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PADOT). There are 41.21 miles of state roadway in the Township and they comprise 38% of the total municipal road network. Routes designated with a uuTuuare the responsibility of the Township to build and maintain. Athens Township Iuownsuuand maintains a total of 67.8 miles of local streets and roads within the municipality. Township roads make up 62% of the total road network. Overall, there are 109.01 miles of roads throughout the Township.
- 3 . Phvsical Conditions An evaluation of Township roadway surface conditions is conducted by the Township Supervisors semi-annually during road inspections. On-going inspections and maintenance is then performed by the Townshipus 4-member highway crew. PADOT is responsible for assessing the condition of its roads and highways and for assigning the appropriate manpower or selecting a contractor to handle maintenance and/or construction projects.
According to 1992 figures provided by PADOT, there are 45.7 miles of hard-surfaced roads in the Township s road network, 10.68 miles of bituminous-surfaced routes, and 11.42 miles of unimproved roadways. Table 39 below illustrates the type of road surface and 99 condition of the roadways in the Township as determined during the community's most recent survey. (A copy of the rating criteria used to evaluate the condition of the road surfaces can be found in Appendix I of this Plan.)
Table 39 Roadway Surface Conditions SURFACE ROADWAY NAME SI NUMBER ROAD SURFACE CONDITION State Routes NY Route 17 SR 0017 Concrete Good PA Route 199 SR 0199 Bituminous FairtoGood US Route 220 SR 0220 Concrete/Bituminous FairtoGood Riverside Drive/ Sheshequin Road SR 1043 Bituminous Fair Ridge Road SR 1052 Gravel/Dirt Fair Orange Hill Road SR 1054 Bituminous Fair Front Street SR 1056 Bituminous Fair Center Street SR 1060 Bituminous Fair Cayuta Street SR 1062 Bituminous Good Pine Street SR 1064 Bituminous Good McDuffee Street/ Lincoln Street SR 1066 Bituminous FairtoGood Lockhart Street SR 1068 Bituminous Fair Elmira Street SR 1069 Bituminous Fair Shephard Road SR 1071 Bituminous Fair Wolcott Hollow Rd.SR 4018 Bituminous Fair Mile Lane Road SR 4020 Bituminous Fair Wilawana Road SR 4022 Bituminous FairtoGood Stone Lick Road SR 4024 Gravel/Dirt Fair 0 Township Roads Alleyhoot Road T-322 Gravel/Dirt Fair Baxter Street T-218 Bituminous Good * Beacraft Street T-104 Bituminous Fair Beaver Pond Road T-314 Gravel/Dirt Poor Bensley Street T-102 Bituminous Fair Birch Lane T-110 Gravel/Dirt Fair Blue Bird Road T-328 Gravel/Dirt Fair Bowman Road T-327 Gravel/ Dirt Fair Bressler Street T-225 Bituminous Good * Brown Road T-107 Gravel/Dirt Fair Campbell Road T-120 Gravel/Dirt Fair Center Street T-217 Bituminous Good Chamberlain Road T-330 Gravel/Dirt Fair Chapman Road T-116 Gravel/Bituminous Fair Clinton Street T-223 Bituminous Poor * 100 Cole Street T-205 Bituminous Fair Cole Hollow Road T-121 Gravel/ Dirt Fair Dominic Pace Indus- trial Parkway T-105 Bituminous Fair Dunkley Hill Road T-311 Gravel/Dirt Poor Elsbree Lane T-305 Gravel/Dirt Fair Ellistown Road T-101 Bituminous Poor Farr Road T-325 Gravel/ Dirt Fair Forest Lane T-118 Bituminous Fair Fourth Street T-103 Bituminous Fair Gameland Road T-329 Gravel/Dirt Fair Green Mountain Dr. T-117 Bituminous Fair Herrick Avenue T-224 Bituminous Fair * Highland Drive T-310 Gravel/Dirt Fair Hillcrest Drive T-211 Bituminous Fair * Hoover Road T-222 Bituminous Fair * Industrial Park Rd.T-319 Bituminous Good Jacklin Road T-307 -. - Gravel/Dirt Fair Jacob Street T-209 Bituminous Fair * Joy Street T-203 Bituminous Fair * Kirby Street T-113 Bituminous Fair Lambert Street T-210 Bituminous Fair * Laurel Lane T-336 Bituminous Fair Lawton Street T-221 Bituminous Fair * Lewis Street T-219 Bituminous Fair * Lilley Avenue T-226 Bituminous Fair * Local Service Rd. T-227 Gravel/Dirt Fair Macafee Road T-332 Bituminous/Gravel Fair McCardle Road T-308 Gravel/Dirt Fair McKinney Hill Road T-115 Gravel/Dirt Fair Meadowlark Road T-303 Bituminous/Gravel Fair Miller Road T-111 Bituminous/Gravel FairtoGwd Mink Ranch Road T-309 Gravel/Dirt Fair Moore Road T-109 Bituminous Fair Murphy Road T-323 Gravel/Dirt Fair Murray Creek Rd. T-321 Gravel/Bituminous Fair North Road T-331 Bituminous Fair Oak Field Drive T-313 Gravel/ Dirt Good Oak Hill Road T-302 Bituminous Fair Orcutt Creek Road T-306 Bituminous/Gravel Fair Pennsylvania Ave. T-208 Bituminous Fair * Pine Tree Road T-214 Bituminous Fair * Pine Tree Road Ext.T-215 Bituminous Fair * Prospect Street T-220 Bituminous Fair * Pump Station Hill Road T-318 Gravel/Dirt Fair Queen Esther Drive T-335 Bituminous Good Reagan Road T-326 Bituminous Fair Rosh Road T-213 Bituminous Poor * Round Top Road T-317 Bituminous Good Sandra Avenue T-206 Bituminous Fair * Sayre Hill Road T-108 Bituminous Fair 101 Sharon Avenue T-204 Bituminous Fair Short Street T-112 Bituminous Fair South Road T-114 Bituminous Fair Sunnyf ield Drive T-324 Bituminous/Gravel Fair Sutliff Hill Rd, T-320 Gravel/Dirt Fair Tannery Road T-334 Bituminous Poor Tara Parkway T-207 Bituminous Fair Thurston Road T-333 Bituminous Fair Tutelow Creek Rd, T-312 Gravel/Dirt Fair Valley View Lane T-119 Bituminous Fair Vallilee Place T-212 Bituminous Fair * Vetter Road T-305 Bituminous Fair Vista Drive T-202 Bituminous Fair * Washington Street T-201 Bituminous Poor * Weaver Road T-3 15 Gravel/Dirt Fair Westbrook Street T-216 Bituminous Poor * West Park Road T-316 Gravel/Dirt Fair White Wagon Road T-301 -. ~ Bituminous Good Wildwood Drive T-106 Bituminous Fair * Condition before sewer work
4. Township Bridaes
There are six municipally-owned bridges exceeding 20 feet in length in the Township. Because of their length, these structures are subject to PADOT'S bi-annual inspection requirements. Numerous other municipal bridges or structures cross small creeks and runs in the Township, but since their lengths do not exceed 20 feet, no state inventory of these structures is required, General information on each of the six inventoried structures follows.
Bridge # 1 carries T-105 (Dominic Pace Industrial Parkway) across Cayuta Creek in the northeast segment of the Township, It is a single lane, steel through-truss bridge with an open grid steel deck spanning 165 feet. According to a 1987 inspection report for the bridge, the structure was originally built in 1920, but was reconstructed in 1980. The 1987 inspection indicated that the structure was in good condition. Bridge # 2, a timber span structure, carrying T-317 (Round Top Road) over Murray Creek, was built in 1986 to replace an existing deteriorating structure. This bridge has an overall length of 26 feet and a roadway width of 22 feet 3 inches and was found to be in good condition during its 1988 inspection.
Bridge # 3 also carries T-317 (Round Top Road) over Murray Creek and is located just north of the intersection of Round Top Road and SR 4018 (Wolcott Hollow Road). The structure, constructed in 1977, is a prestressed concrete adjacent box beam
102 bridge with an asphalt surface which spans 34 feet and has a width of 22 feet. The bridge was determined to be in good condition during an in inspection 1987. Bridge # 4, also a prestressed concrete adjacent box beam structure, carries T-321 (Murray Creek Road) over Murray Creek. Built in 1977, this bridge has an overall length of 36 feet and a roadway width of 22 feet. A 1987 inspection found this structure to be in good condition.
Bridge # 5, carrying T-109 (Moore Road) over Satterlee Creek, is 60+ year old structure, originally built in 1930. The structure is a steel through-girder bridge that spans 59 feet with an 18 foot wide roadway. According to its 1987 inspection, this bridge was in fair condition and a number of recommendations were made at that time to rehabilitate the structure and its abutments. _- Bridge # 6 carries T-111 (Miller Road) over Satterlee Creek in the east central part of the Township. This structure, a single lane steel beam bridge, has a length of 40 feet and a width of 14 feet. Originally built in 1920 and rehabilitated in 1955, this structure was found to be in fair condition during its 1987 inspection. In order to extend the life of this bridge further though, several deficiencies identified in the inspection report need to be addressed by the Township.
5. State Bridaes Information provided by PADOT indicates that there are 514 state-owned bridges in Bradford County, 23 of which are located in Athens Township. Four of these structures are located along Wilawana Road, four are situated along Wolcott Hollow Road, five are on U.S. Route 220, three on Front Street, three on Riverside Drive, three on PA Route 199, and one is on Stone Lick Road. Since these structures are part of the State's roadway network, they are inspected and maintained by PADOT.
B. TRAFFIC ANALYSIS
1. Circulation Patterns The Township road network is essentially a rectangular grid system. The main components of the grid serving the more rural areas of the Township include U.S. Route 220, running north and south, following the Chemung River on the west side of the urban area: SR 1043 (Riverside Drive) which follows the east bank of the Susquehanna River in a north-south direction: SR's 4018, 4020, and 4022 (Wolcott Hollow Road, Mile Lane Road, and Wilawana Road, respectively) which radiate westerly from U.S. Route 220 to the western border of the Township, SR 1056 (Front
103 Street) which proceeds in an easterly direction from the Susquehanna River; and SR 1054 (Orange Hill Road) which runs south and east from Riverside Drive and provides access to several subdivisions located in the highland areas of the Township. In addition, almost 68 miles of Township roads, the ma jority of which are hard-surfaced, serve local development areas and rural village centers. The urbanized core of the Township is provided east/west access by SR's 1064 (Pine Street) and 1068 (Lockhart Street), both major collectors and SR 1066 (McDuffee Street), a residential collector street. PA Route 199, which serves the Tannery Curve portion of the Township, runs in a north/south direction through the Boroughs of Athens and Sayre, and provides a direct connection to NY Route 17 at its northernmost point. The principal business segment of the Township is served by SR 1069 (Elmira Street). --Thisroad runs north and south from the South Waverly Borough line (in the vicinity of the K-Mart Plaza) to Pine Street at the Athens Borough line, a distance of approximately two miles. The traffic count for this roadway averages about 8,000 cars per day. The cartway of this street is presently being widened to three lanes from Pine Street north to McDuffee Street in order to accommodate this volume of traffic and facilitate turning movements into commercial establishments located along the strip. The widening project is about 50% completed. Curbs and storm drains are also being installed as part of this project. The Township's share of the cost for this project is $70,385. It is the Township's hope that these improvements can be extended north to the South Waverly Borough line in the near future to reduce congestion in this developing area of the municipality. As far as travel to and from the Valley is concerned, NY Route 17, along the New York State border sewes as an east- west connector. U.S. Route 220 leads south from Route 17 and several New York state routes lead north from Route 17.
2. Problem Areas Traffic conditions on the major routes discussed above are generally favorable with moderate usage. However, there are a number of exceptions where accident information complied by the Township and State Police Departments documents problem areas. They include the following. Elmira Street. During peak shopping hours traffic congestion is moderate to heavy and at least 15 accidents occurred along this route from January through October of 1991. Widening the roadway to three lanes should help alleviate some of these problems. However, the placement of traffic signals at the Elmira and Wilawana Road 104 intersection and at the intersection of Elmira and Lockhart Streets would further help to improve traffic flow through this area. The existing congestion could be aggravated even further if Walmart or another high-volume commercial traffic generator locates on property along Elmira Street. If such development occurs, the developer should be required to prepare traffic studies to determine if a turning or deceleration lane or traffic signals should be placed at the new intersection with Elmira Street. The developer should also be required to pay for the construction or installation of all such facilities on or adjacent to his site.
Wolcott Hollow Road and U.S. Route 220. The intersection of Wolcott Hollow Road and U.S. Route 220 is another area where traffic congestion and accidents occur, especially at peak hours. The placement of a traffic signal at this difficult intersection could help ease some of the problems here. Front Street/Susauehanna River Bridse. The intersection of Front Street and Riverside Drive in the East Athens area is another trouble spot. A number of accidents have occurred in this vicinity and along the Bridge carrying Front Street over the Susquehanna River. The bridge has an open steel grate deck and this surface becomes slippery at times and difficult to travel. (PADOT is planning to replace this bridge in 1998. See Part C below.)
Oranse Hill Road. Orange Hill Road climbs steadily (an 8- 10% grade) for almost two miles along the side of a mountain with steep drops to the west. The potential for accidents is in this area is high even though residents are generally used to the conditions. Guide rails are needed along the steeper segments of this road to provide adequate protection for users. East-West State Routes. All of the east-west state routes are subject to traffic pressures during the peak morning and afternoon commuting hours. That is, accidents can and do occur when people rush along winding, steep roads or roads that were not designed to accommodate the volumes of traffic using them. For example, Mile Lane Road has a slope of up to 15% in some areas, and Wilawana Road has become quite busy providing the prime means of access to area arterials and employment centers for several major subdivisions. The balance of the Township road system generally consists of hard-surface roads in the urban areas and gravel roads in the rural areas of the municipality. Traffic is mostly low volume and accidents are less severe on these lower speed roads, but 105 constant vigilance is required to spot and avoid hazards, especially when traveling on roads such as Queen Esther Drive, Sayre Hill Road, Mile Lane Road and some other unimproved roads, where grades of up to 15% exist. Guide rails and adequate advance signage are needed in these areas to protect users and alert them to potentially hazardous cumes or grades.
C. FUTURE HIGHWAY NEEDS AND PLANS After evaluating the existing road and highway network and assessing the system’s problems, several projects can be identifled to help resolve the current difficulties and assist the Township in planning for the future. Since both the Township and the State own roadways in the network, projects and recommendations need to be separated and assigned to the appropriate agency.
1. Township Roads ..- The Township Supervisors annually develop a road and ‘0 highway improvement program to upgrade roads that are determined to be in poor condition and to maintain those that are in fair or good shape. In recent years they have budgeted funds to pave or otherwise improve the surface of at least one mile of road annually. In addition, substantial amounts of work are performed along numerous miles of road to maintain or improve drainage ditches in an attempt to better channel surface water or stormwater runoff. The following is a list of the specific major municipal road projects that have been identified or programmed by the Township Supervisors for the next four years.
Table 40
Athens Township Road L Highway Projects 1992-1995
Route C Number Proi ect Beaver Pond Road (T-314) Improve Surface - 1993 Chapman Road (T-116) Improve Surface - 1994 Dunkley Hill Road (T-311) Improve 1/2 mile Surface- 1993 Ellistown Road (T-101) Improve 1/2 mile Surface- 1993 Highland Drive (T-310) Improve Surface (Gravel) Macafee Road (T-332) Improve Surface Miller Road (T-111) Improve Surface Rosh Road (T-213) Improve Surface Sunnyfield Drive (T-324) Improve Surf ace Washington Street (T-201) Improve Surface Weaver Road (T-315) Improve Surface - 1995 Westbrook Stre.et (T-216) Improve Surface West Park Road (T-316) Improve Surf ace 106 The Athens Township Police Department has also made a few additional recommendations for improving the municipal road system. Their recommendations include 1) providing better signage at the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue and Westbrook Street, 2) eliminating business parking along Bressler Street, and 3) prohibiting vendors from using the street right-of-way of any street for client parking. The placement and enforce- ment of proper signage in these areas could resolve most of these problems . 2. State Routes The PA Department of Transportation also plans for bridge and highway improvement projects in order to make the best use of their funds. While maintenance work is an on-going effort for the Department, major road or highway projects must be planned, prioritized and then programmed. Every two years the Department prepares a Twelve Year Program for submission to and approval by the State Transportation Committee which itemizes all of the major projects anticipated for the Department for the next 12 years. The Twelve Year Program also includes a cost estimate and potential funding categories for each proposed project . Specific Athens Township projects on the Interim 1990-2002 Twelve Year Program for Bradford County include those listed below. (This Plan was approved by the State Transportation Committee in July 1991.)
Table 41
PADOT Road 61 Highway Projects Athens Township, Bradford County Twelve Year Program a (1990-2002) cost Route # Proiect Location Proi ect Timinq (OOO'S) SR 0220 Murray Creek Bridge Replacement 3rd 4 Years 682 $R 1056 Susque. River Bridge Replacement 3rd 4 Years 5,375 SR 4018 Wolcott Creek Bridge Replacement 3rd 4 Years 287 SR 4018 Murray Creek Bridge Rehabilitation 3rd 4 Years 235 NA Blue Swan Airport Gas Tank & Pump 1st 4 Years 100 NA Blue Swan Airport JP 4 Tank & Pump 1st 4 Years 100 NA Blue Swan Airport Public Terminal 1st 4 Years 112 NA Blue Swan Airport Rotate Runway 1st 4 Years 225 NA Blue Swan Airport Improvements 1st 4 Years 1,605
Other PADOT' projects which have been presented to area legislators for funding approval in the Athens Township area
107 include :
Table 42
Other PADOT Road 6 Highway Projects Athens Township, Bradford County
cost Route # Proi ect Location Proi ect Timinq (OOO'SI SR 1043 Sheshequin Road Surface Treatment 1991-92 27 (2.54 miles)
SR 1064 Pine Street Surface Treatment 1991-92 22 (Elmira to Main St.) (.68 miles) *
SR 1069 Elmira Street . Widening 1991-92 943 (Pine to McDuffee St-.) * project completed
In addition, PADOT has recently assigned speed limits to and posted Wilawana Road, Mile Lane Road, and Wolcott Hollow Road based on recommendations from the Township Police Department. These limits are intended to reduce traveling speeds and decrease the chances for accidents. The Police Department has noted that a "line of sight" problem exists with the bridge located on SR 1043 (Sheshequin Road) just south of its intersection with Orange Hill Road. Perhaps PADOT could lower or adjust the alignment of this bridge as needed in conjunction with the resurfacing project identified above. And, as noted earlier in Part B, the placement of traffic signals at three intersections in the Township (Elmira Street and Wilawana Road, Elmira and Lockhart Streets, and Wolcott Hollow Road and U.S. Route 220) would help to relieve congestion and more safely regulate traffic movements at these accident- plagued locations. Also, the installation of guide rails along the steeper segments of Orange Hill Road would provide additional protection for users of this roadway.
D. PUBLIC TRANSIT SERVICES 1. Endless Mountains Transportation Authority (EMTA) The Endless Mountains Transportation Authority is a Municipal Authority, established to provide public transporta- tion to the residents of Bradford, Sullivan and Tioga Counties. 108 They provide directly operated services in Bradford and Sullivan Counties, but service in Tioga County is provided via contract with Shaw Transportation Services. The EMTA owns and maintains all of the vehicles that it operates. The Authority now operates from headquarters located in Athens Township, along U.S. Route 220, in the building previously occupied by Haner's Used Cars.
EMTA provides fixed route and demand response services. The fixed route service is comparable to similar services provided in larger metropolitan areas. Vehicles operate along an established route, according to a published time table and fares are collected as a passenger boards the bus. Weekday service is provided between and within the larger communities (Towanda/ Sayre/Waverly : Canton/Troy/Towanda/Monroeton ; Blossburg/Mans- field/Wellsboro) and caters to work and school commutes, and shopping and recreation trips. Saturday service is designed to provide base level circulakion between communities and I1express" service to the regional shopping mall in Arnot, near Elmira. EMTA operates a fleet of 18 mini-buses which are dispatched to provide the regularly scheduled services. Eight of these buses are wheelchair accessible and are used to provide this service. The current mainstay however of EMTA's services is its demand response transportation services. Approximately 3/4 of the Authority's resources are directed towards operating this network. Unlike fixed route services, demand response services do not normally operate along established routes; rather, the network is composed of several dispatch-directed vans and small buses that "respond" to specific service requests . This transit network usually provides trips for individuals who receive some sort of third party benefit such as state senior citizens programs, medical assistance, human service development programs or others. Very few demand response trips are paid for directly by the client. The service is however available for use by the general public. The demand response transit service at EMTA works on a 24 hour call-in service basis. A passenger requesting service calls for a reservation at least 24 hours in advance of the requested trip and at the appropriate time a van is dispatched to pick up the client and take him to his designated destination. EMTA maintains a fleet of 3 accessible mini-vans which can accommodate up to 5 wheelchair passengers to provide this service.
2. Other Commercial Bus Service Capitol Trailways, with a "pick-uptl location on Packer Avenue in Sayre, provides commercial bus service to numerous locations throughout Pennsylvania and New York states, including major cities such as Buffalo, New York City and Washington, D.C.
109 which provide connector service to all parts of the country. Short Line Bus Company also provides commercial bus service from its terminal in Waverly, New York. Although it serves some of the same locales as Trailways, it primarily services areas east and west through New York State.
E. AIR SERVICE Air transportation forthe movement of both passengers and cargo is provided via a number of local and regional facilities.
1. Commercial Connecting air service is available for commuters from Chemung County Regional Airport located in Big Flats,-New York; from the Williamsport/Lycoming County Airport in Montoursville; and from the Edwin Link Airport in Binghamton, New York. Direct air transportation is available from the Wilkes Barre/Scranton International Airport in Avoca. 2. Local Service Several local facilities also provide general air service to the public. Towanda Airport, located just south of the Borough of Towanda, provides service for businesses and industries in the southern part of Bradford County and Blue Swan Airport, located in Athens Township, provides general service for individuals in the Valley region. The Blue Swan Airport, owned by Sayre Borough, is currently planning to enlarge its facilities and expand its service. The operators of this airport, Penn-York Aviation, would like to improve the present facilities on their 70 acre site to provide a broader range of general aviation services and obtain a basic all-weather listing with the Federal Aviation Administration. At the present time, they plan to rotate the runway approximate- ly 10 degrees toward a northwest-southeast orientation, pave the 3,500 foot runway, and add a shop and fuel facility. (No additional property is to be purchased at this time.) The Borough of Sayre has indicated its support of this proposal and has obtained a $375,000 grant to help accomplish the expansion. They have also approached the Athens Township Board of Super- visors and requested their approval for the project. Although no formal endorsement has yet been given by the Township, the Supervisors have indicated their general concurrence with preliminary plans for the project.
F. RAIL SERVICE Historically, physically and economically, railroads have
110 exerted an imposing influence on the Valley Region. The Susque- hanna River Valley through Athens, Sayre and Athens Township is crisscrossed by Conrail lines, spurs and yards. Although major employment was once provided by these systems, in recent years rail service has decreased as the use of truck and air transportation has increased. Railroads however still play an important economic role in the Valley. Even though passenger service is no longer available, the railroad still provides substantial freight service for commercial and industrial users in the area, and at least one local industry, railroad car rebuilding, owes its existence to the carrier. The availability of rail service may in fact be an essential prerequisite for the recruitment of industrial develop- ment in the region.
111 CHAPTER 10.
DEVELOPMENT PLAN
As discussed in Chapter 1 of this document, the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code has provided local governments in the Commonwealth with the tools and mechanisms by which the future character of their communities may be guided. By furnishing municipalities with the legislative sanctions for the preparation, enactment and implementation of various types of land use control regulations, the Legislature of the Commonwealth has sought to provide for the health and general welfare of the State's residents through properly-conceived, well-informed local control. It is important to remember that these comprehensive powers have been vested in local government so that specific goals and objectives may be determined by each -individual community, Within this context, it has been determined that a municipality can best 0 achieve its goals and objectives when strategies and policies are based on past and present conditions and expected trends. Thus, the Supervisors of Athens Township will endeavor to provide for the health, safety and welfare of all existing and future Township residents through the establishment of the specific goals and objectives regarding development of the community presented in this Chapter. These goals and their objectives are based upon the analysis of regional and local conditions and the trends identified in Chapters 3 - 9 of this document, and upon the desires of the municipal citizenry as interpreted by their participation and input into the development of this document. Future growth policies and specific recommendations for achieving the identified goals are then also detailed in this Chapter.
A, STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES It is the purpose of Athens Township, through this planning process, to accomplish the coordinated and harmonious development of the municipality and its environs in accordance with the area's present and future needs. Through the establishment of a reasonable and thorough set of goals and objectives, and the development of realistic growth policies and specific Plan recommendations, it is hoped that a solid foundation will be laid upon which the Township Supervisors can base their future decisions relating to land use, housing, transportation, and community facilities and utilities. The overall objective of this Comprehensive Plan is to preserve a pleasant, healthy, safe and convenient environment in the Township for living, working, recreation, and other leisure-
112 time activities.
B. DEVELOPMENT SUITABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS In order to help formulate realistic goals and objectives to guide the future development of the municipality, the Township first identified and evaluated the community's growth potentials and its positive attributes, as well as its limitations or the potential problems it may pose for development.
GROWTH STIMULI
1. Geosraphic Location Athens Township is situated approximately 15 miles from Towanda, the County Seat of Bradford County, and about 50 miles from Mansfield in Tioga County. The industrial areas of Sayre, Athens and Towanda are located within a 15720 mile radius of most Athens Township residents, and major employment centers in New York State, such as Owego, Elmira and Horseheads are within reasonable commuting distance of the municipality. The Township's location therefore makes it quite attractive to potential developers and settlers because it combines the benefits of semi-rural/suburban living with the conveniences of easily accessible urban areas.
2. Hiahwav Access PA Route 199, SR's 1043 (Riverside Drive), 1056 (Front Street), 1068 (Lockhart Street), 1069 (Elmira Street), and 4022 (Wilawana Road) provide adequate inter-municipal access for citizens of Athens Township. US Route 220, which runs north and south through the Township, and east-west NY Route 17, located just north of the municipality, link the community's residents easily with larger metropolitan areas in Pennsylvania and New York State. Jobs, shopping areas (the Arnot Mall, near Elmira, and in downtown Sayre, Athens and Towanda), and social, educational, and recreational activities and functions are therefore readily accessible via this highway network.
3. Employment Opportunities A relatively wide variety of employment opportunities, including jobs in manufacturing, and service, health care, government and education fields, are available for Township residents within a 50-mile radius in Pennsylvania and New York State. The historically low unemployment rate in the region has been a strong inducement for people to locate in this area. 113 4. Communitv Character; Environmental Oualities Many people consider the natural features or environ- mental qualities of an area, including its physical characteristics, when choosing a place to live or purchase land. The natural beauty of this area's varying landscapes; its wooded hillsides and hollow areas, its scenic vistas, its unspoiled stream valleys, its cultivated fields and pasture areas, as well as the commercial and residentially-developed areas surrounding the Boroughs of Athens, Sayre and South Waverly combine to form a very appealing quality of life. The area's rural and suburban environments and resulting lifestyle choices will most assuredly serve as an inducement for future development in the municipality. 5. Communitv Sewer and Water Utilities Although community-sewer and water services are primarily available only in the portions of the Township situated between the Chemung and Susquehanna Rivers, the availability of such services will definitely act as a stimulus for development in this segment of the community. Additional, higher density residential growth will likely be experienced, as well as further commercial development adjacent to Elmira Street, as developers seek to take advantage of available capacities in these systems. The fact that the Township is also willing to look favorably on accepting ownership and maintenance responsibil- ities for package sewage treatment facilities installed by developers to serve their subdivisions can also be considered an inducement for development. Without such municipal support, developers often become disenchanted with a community or area and look elsewhere to locate. 6. Communitv Facilities and Services As described in Chapter 5, Athens Township residents have access to a variety of excellent community services (including municipal police coverage, volunteer fire protection and ambulance services, professional emergency medical/paramedic services, outstanding health care facilities, and a broad range of educational opportunities) and facilities (including a centrally-located Municipal Building and the 565-acre Round Top Park, as well as numerous other recreational facilities) within reasonable proximity of their homes. The availability and quality of these services and facilities will also serve to attract additional development to the Township.
114 GROm LIMITATIONS
1. Soils Suitabilitv for On-Lot Sewacre Disposal
A substantial portion of the land area remaining undevel- oped in Athens Township may be limited in its ability to provide for proper on-site, sub-surface sewage disposal. Utilization or over-utilization of poor soil areas for devel- opment could lead to severe sewage disposal problems and cause malfunction of systems installed in such areas, thereby posing serious health concerns for the Township residents. Since community or public sewage service is not expected to become available in those parts of the municipality west of the Chemung River or east of the Susquehanna,-at least not in the near future, soils suitability for on-site sewage disposal will likely remain a concern, especially for large-scale development. -. - 2. Water Supplv The lack of a public water supply in most areas west of the Chemung River and much of the municipality east of the Susquehanna River may also limit future development in the Township. The quality of water in some existing developments, i.e. Stover's Acres, has already been questioned and the prospects of additional growth are causing further concern regarding the quantity and quality of on-site water supplies. Groundwater recharge areas and essential wetlands need to be identified and protected against encroachment and adverse impacts from development. As a result, some areas of the Township may not be available for development.
3. Steep Slopes; Forested Areas Steep slopes are another factor which will and should limit development in Athens Township. Uncontrolled develop- ment of such slopes areas and/or massive deforestation projects could create numerous environmental problems, includ- ing soil erosion, rapid stormwater run-off, water supply contamination, sedimentation of streams and waterways, as well as visual eyesores. Furthermore, it is generally difficult to construct and maintain roads to access developments in these areas.
4. FloodDlains/Flood-prone Areas/Wetlands Although comprising a relatively small portion of the Township's total land area, floodplains, flood-prone areas and wetlands still represent a limitation for future development. Development which is allowed to occur in floodprone areas could endanger' lives and at the very least could increase the potential for flood losses and damage. And encroachment in
115 wetlands could lead to the destruction of valuable natural, groundwater recharge areas. Locating future growth outside of flood hazard areas and away from identified wetlands will allow flooding to occur in the space set aside by nature and should help preserve necessary resources and the overall quality of life for present and future residents. Through its participation in the National Flood Insurance Program, Athens Township is attempting to discourage or regulate development in its floodplains.
5. Prime Farmland According to the figures compiled in Chapter 7, approx- imately 70% of the total land area of the Township has soils which are classified as either prime or as having statewide importance for agricultural purposes. And, of this area, roughly 46% of the land is currently being farmed. Thus, in order to avoid the loss -of significant areas of irreplaceable agricultural lands, development should be encouraged to locate in other areas of the Township, to the extent possible. By eliminating or decreasing the availability and quantity of productive farmland for development, suitable areas for future growth could be limited.
6. US Route 220 and Other Major Collector Roads
Even though US Route 220, PA Route 199, and State Routes 1043, 1056, 1068, 1069 and 4022 were identified as growth stimuli for the Township in the previous part of this section, problems can arise if uncontrolled or poorly-regulated development is allowed to occur adjacent to these thorough- fares. Such development can cause a proliferation of access points and intersections which create traffic congestion and potentially-hazardous circumstances for mlthroughmmtraffic, as has already occurred along US Route 220 in the Wolcott Hollow Road area and at numerous locations along Elmira Street. As a result of such activity, the intended function and carrying- capacity of the highway is often times severely diminished.
C. GENERAL GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The Athens Township Board of Supervisors will seek to attain the following interrelated goals and objectives to guide the development of the community over the next 10-15 years. (The order of presentation of the goals and the objectives is not intended to indicate an order of importance or significance.)
GOAL # 1. Protection of natural features and resources, farms, habitats and woodlands.
116 Obi ectives : Protect aquifers Protect rivers and streams Protect wetlands Protect municipal water supplies Protect well water Protect trees and vegetation Protect agricultural soils Avoid excessive land disturbance
GOAL # 2. Protection from noise and air pollution, electro- magnetic fields, etc. Obi ectives : * Maintain air qua-l-ity * Control dust * Strictly control noise in residential and commercial areas * Monitor potential health hazards such as electro- magnetic fields * Control insects
GOAL # 3. Provision of necessary public utilities at a fair and reasonable cost . Obi ect ives : * Provide electric and telephone service for all Township residents, and provide gas and cable where possible * Provide public sewer systems in high density areas * Provide septage management where required to ensure long-term soils viability a * Provide public water supply where needed * Ensure fair utility rates for all Township residents * Provide street lighting in hazardous areas
GOAL # 4. Maintenance of public safety, emergency semices. Obi ect ives : * Maintain secure environment * Maintain high quality fire protection * Plan for flood emergencies * Plan for wind emergencies * Plan for other emergencies involving hazardous materials * Plan for medical emergencies 117 * Coordinate public safety issues with other municipalities * Develop infrastructure for 911 grid system
GOAL # 5. Protection of property, property rights (including peaceful enjoyment) and values. Objectives : Avoid location of incompatible uses near each other Prevent dumping and littering, including junk cars and bulky items Monitor open burning Enforce the dog ordinance and other nuisance ordinances Encourage housing rehabilitation Regulate peddling and soliciting Plan and provide-necessary public improvements, i.e. roads, utilities, etc., and amenities of all sorts Regulate through truck traffic in developed areas
GOAL # 60 Provision of a safe, reliable transportation system. Obi ectives : * Identify danger spots * Correct identified danger spots, such as cross walks in commercial areas * Inform the public of speed laws and restrictions, i.e. signs * Control traffic flow under various conditions, i.e. signage, signalization, etc. * Develop capital improvements program * Coordinate plans and projects with State, County and other municipalities * Review State traffic signs and markers and expedite any corrections, where needed * Expedite repair of sewered Township and State roads
GOAL # 7. Support of local and regional economies that provide an ample supply of goods and services, and reasonable employment opportunities. Obi ect ives : * Support business and industry * Encourage training at all levels * Identify and plan sites * Encourage agricultural production and marketing of produce in the Township
118 GOAL # 8. Provision of diversified inventory of housing types and sizes for rental and purchase. Obi ectives : * Encourage developers to provide housing variety; provide incentives * Seek Federal or State grants and loans * Encourage housing preservation * Designate areas for mobile home parks
GOAL # 9. Availability of additional recreational facilities. Objectives : * Identify local and Valley-wide needs * Identify possible sites * Develop a plan for trails, walks, fishing sites, etc. * Implement plan as funding is available
GOAL # 10. Support of on-going historical/cultural programs anU opportunities. Obiectives: * Prepare for Township's 200th anniversary * Design on-going program to develop Township history and identify historical sites * Inform Township citizens of important historical and cultural opportunities * Establish Township identity
0 GOAL # 11. Provision of efficient government and school systems. Objectives: * Automate routine administrative and clerical tasks, where practical * Take advantage of training opportunities * Develop job descriptions for municipal positions and identify specific job functions and responsibilities * Develop capital improvements program * Support quality educational opportunities
GOAL # 12. Assessment of on-going needs and identification of public funds available for both Township and joint municipal applications and projects.
119 Obi ectives : * Recreation * Utilities * Emergency services * Cultural facilities and programs * Transportation * Airport
D. FUTURE GROWTH POLICIES AND PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS This segment of the Development Plan seeks to outline what are considered the most effective strategies for maximizing the chances of achieving the desired goals and objectives established for Athens Township. Based on the conclusions drawn in Chapters 1-9 of this document and the general development goals and objectives outlined above, a set of specific growth recommendations has been developed for each of the identified goals. An attempt 0 has been made to keep the guidelines and recommendations as brief as possible to avoid setting forth specific regulatory provisions which are more appropriately located in implementing ordinances. The recommendations outlined below (not necessarily in order of importance) are intended to provide long-range direction or policies to guide the growth of Athens Township. (The goal statements have been repeated from the previous Section in this chapter to emphasize their importance and relation to the recommeydations. )
GOAL # 1. Protection of natural features and resources, farms, habitats and woodlands. Recommendations:
1. Develop land use control regulations, i.e. a local Zoning Ordinance, that consider the character of the various segments of the Township; give major consideration to the capacity of the area's natural resources, including soils, water supply, etc.,, to accommodate new development; and discourage utilization of environmentally-sensitive areas. 2. Identify natural features and resource areas in the Township and protect these valuable assets by establishing reasonable controls to govern their conservation, disturbance and management. Include provisions requiring minimization of disturbance to natural features and mitigation of any adverse impacts on these irreplaceable resources.
3. Environmental hazard areas (including slopes exceeding 20%, floodplains, wetlands, and ground water recharge areas)
12 0 should be identified and mapped, when possible, to ensure adequate review of developments proposed in these areas. 4. Require developers to provide sufficient documentation, along with their plot plans, to illustrate their assessment of possible environmental concerns of the development site.
5. Protect known groundwater recharge areas by restrict- ing the type and intensity of development in these areas. Require developers to undertake hydrogeologic studies where there are known water quantity problems, or where, in the opinion of the Township Supervisors, such is warranted to avoid adverse impacts on the water supply of adjoining properties.
6. Monitor State-determined water quality of streams in the Township and prevent pollution to the extent possible. Discourage encroachment in proximity to municipal streams, (in particular, streams designated as high quality or exceptional value waterways by the PA Department of Environmental Resour- ces), where such activity threatens to degrade the natural conditions or qualities of the water course. 7. Require the provision of natural planting buffers or the retention of existing vegetation along streams in the Township where new development is proposed. 8. Continue to maintain an effective, current sewage facilities planning and permitting program throughout the Township.
9. Continue to require developers to submit, along with their subdivision plans, the necessary documentation to show that their proposed method of sewage disposal will be adequate and will not cause adverse impacts on adjoining properties.
10. Continue to require stormwater management controls to be incorporated into the design of all new subdivisions. 11. Continue to require a performance guarantee be provided by developers to ensure proper construction and maintenance of stormwater management facilities.
12. Encourage the use of aesthetically-pleasing landscaping practices to enhance the visual quality of the environment, particularly in non-residential developments. 13. Encourage underground utility placement where feasible or, where such is not practical, blending of the utilities with the natural environment.
121 14. Minimize non-farm encroachments in farming-dominant areas of the Township or in areas of prime agricultural soils through the development of well-conceived land use control regulations. 15. Continue to support and expand existing Agricultural Security Areas, and encourage "Clean & Green" tax benefit enrollments as a means of preserving farmland.
16. Consider participation in a Vurchase of Development Rights" program if offered by the County as a means of preserving prime agricultural areas.
17. Minimize the total area disturbed by development and retain open space in the Township by suggesting cluster development designs for major new subdivisions.
18. Conserve the amount of land needed to accommodate future growth by requiring developers of large subdivisions to install community or package sewage systems to serve their developments and by continuing to offer them reduced lot size incentives to do so.
GOAL # 2. Protection from noise and air pollution, electro- magnetic fields, etc. Recommendations:
1. Incorporate standards regulating noise and air pollution in land use regulations.
2. Identify and map, where possible, areas of the Township affected by electro-magnetic fields and monitor development located in these areas, 3, Regulate the location of hazardous materials storage through the adoption of local land use control regulations. 4. Identify insect problems throughout the Township and determine need for municipal or regional vector control programs.
GOAL # 3. Provision of necessary public utilities at a fair and reasonable cost. Recommendations: 1. Achieve maximum utilization of existing public utilities. Develop land use control regulations that will encourage efficient utility and energy utilization and 122 consumption. 2. Negotiate additional capacity allocation in Sayre/ Athens Sewage Treatment Plant to accommodate future develop- ment and to recruit commercial/industrial growth in Athens Township.
3. Continue to accept ownership and operation responsibil- ities for llsatelliteulpackage sewage treatment plants built or supplied by developers and located in the Township, as deemed appropriate, following completion of construction and installation by the developer/owner, i.e. Queen Esther Estates, the Webster Development, the Them/Wilawana Subdivision.
4. Consider the need to institute a septage management program for unsewered areas of the Township to ensure long- term soils viability. --
5. Consider the feasibility and practicality of extending public water supply lines to serve other areas of the Township, especially those with demonstrated water quality and/or quantity problems, i.e. Stover's Acres.
6. Actively pursue State and Federal grant assistance programs to provide cost-effective and financially feasible public sewer and/or water projects. 7. Continue to coordinate, to the extent possible, all sewer and water installation projects with existing or proposed road or highway improvement projects.
8. Continue to require developers to provide or donate right-of-way easements for public services and/or utilities through new developments, as appropriate.
9. Require developers in built-up areas to provide, at their expense, all services and utilities necessary to serve the residents of their developments.
10. Stabilize and minimize costs for public utilities for all users.
GOAL # 4. Maintenance of public safety, emergency services. Recommendations:
1. Maintain the present arrangements for Township police protection provided by the Athens Township Police Department. Support requests for upgraded equipment, as appropriate, and within the constraints of the municipal budget. 123 2. Maintain the present arrangements for Township fire protection provided by the Athens Township volunteers. Increase citizen awareness of potential fire hazards by supporting public education programs sponsored by the Depart- ment.
3. Support necessary equipment upgrades and facility improvements, as requested by the Fire Department, to help maintain the best possible level of service.
4. Support the development of an enhanced 8r91111emergency telephone dialing system for the Township and the coordination of emergency services dispatching in the area.
5. Coordinate planning for flood emergencies, wind emergencies, hazardous materials emergencies, and medical emergencies with neighboring municipalities, local and County Emergency Management -personnel and applicable service providers. Establish appropriate procedures for response to and mitigation of such potential disasters.
GOAL # 5. Protection of property, property rights (including peaceful enjoyment) and values.
Recommendations:
1. Avoid the mixing of incompatible land uses, yet main- tain neighborhood conveniences and a variety of employment opportunities through the development of well-conceived land use regulations.
2. Require appropriate buffers and/or transition areas in municipal land use control regulations to ensure the compatibility and protection of all adjoining land uses.
3. Maintain a current, realistic plan for handling and disposing of solid waste generated within the municipality by residents, businesses and industries, including policies promoting recycling efforts and arrangements for periodic collection and disposal of "white goods".
4. Encourage the removal, isolation and/or screening of all man-made scenic eyesores, including junk yards, auto salvage operations, or other similar facilities.
5. Consider the enactment of a soliciting and/or peddling ordinance to regulate periodic, unauthorized sales of goods or materials throughout the Township.
6. Enforce all existing nuisance regulations, including dog ordinances, open burning limitations, and weed ordinances.
124 7. Consider adoption of regulations to prohibit 11through18 truck traffic on residential streets in developed areas.
8. Encourage well-planned developments to locate in the Township as a means of protecting property values and avoiding economic hardships for existing Township residents. Continue to thoroughly review all subdivision and land development proposals to ensure that developers adequately plan for all necessary improvements.
GOAL # 6. Provision of a safe, reliable transportation system. Recommendations:
GENERAL
1. Encourage through review by PADOT of all proposed new access points along State-owned arterial or collector highways (especially PA Routes 220 and SR 1069, Elmira Street) to avoid creating potentially unsafe intersections and situations. Continue to review development plans from this standpoint.
2. Continue to require municipal Driveway Permits for the construction of all new driveways onto Township roads. Continue to utilize Driveway Design Guidelines and Construction Standards contained in the Township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance as a means of assuring the safety of such installations. 3. Continue to require developers to design and construct new streets in accordance with applicable Township standards. Also require developers to address the impact of their proposals on the existing street system at the development site. Maintain general knowledge of impact fee legislation and implement when and if appropriate as a means of requiring developers to share in the costs of off-site transportation improvements necessitated by their developments.
4. Continue to require the design of all new subdivisions to provide adequate access for emergency vehicles.
5. Continue to enforce standards for the provision of adequate off-street parking and/or loading areas.
6. Monitor State and County transportation policies as they relate to proposed or potential improvement projects in the vicinity of the Township to coordinate State and local planning efforts and to determine their possible impact on the municipality.
125 SPECIFIC
1. Formalize an on-going improvement/maintenance program for all municipally-owned roads and bridges throughout the Township, identifying by year those projects intended for completion. Develop a capital improvements program for the purchase of road maintenance equipment and identify funding sources. 2. Identify specific street intersection or other traffic control problems, including cross-walks in commercial areas, and develop a prioriti'zed list of recommended improvement projects for both the State and local transportation networks.
3. Pursue potential traffic improvement funding to widen the full length of Elmira Street (from Pine St. to K-Mart Plaza) and provide a turning lane to improve circulation and facilitate access to the-commercial development located along this highway. 4. Complete the municipal road naming effort by install- ing signs to properly identify all streets in the Township. Investigate the availability of funds to erect such signs. 5. Periodically review all existing road directional, speed limit and weight restriction signage and determine its adequacy and consistency. Adjust or increase where approp- riate. Post weight limit and advance warning signs for all Township-owned bridges as recommended by bridge inspection engineers.
6. Continue to identify existing drainage or run-off problems along Township roads and establish a schedule to correct them. 7. Coordinate road improvement projects with utility installation projects.
8. Rebuild all streets disturbed by the installation of sewer lines. Utilize grant monies, to the extent possible, to make the necessary repairs.
GOAL # 7. Support of local and regional economics that provide an ample supply of goods and services, and reasonable employment opportunities. Recommendations: 1. Encourage a variety of employment opportunities for Township residents while preserving a healthful and pleasant environment. 126 2. Design land use control regulations to avoid residen- tial encroachment into areas designated for commercial and industrial development and vice versa to ensure the integrity of each type of activity.
3. Incorporate provisions addressing density, lot coverage, setback and/or buffering, and sign controls in municipal land use regulations to protect adjoining uses, 4. Support continued efforts by Northern Tier Career Center and BOCES to develop and maintain a pool of skilled employees for local businesses and industries.
5. Support the many college and extension courses offered by a large number of two and four-year institutions in the area,
6. Work with existing economic development agencies (including VEDA and Northern Tier Regional Planning and a Development Commission) to prepare a thorough plan for industrial and commercial development in the Township. 7. Support agricultural production as a viable economic activity and encourage marketing of farm products in the Township.
GOAL # 8. Provision of diversified inventory of housing types and sizes for rental and purchase. Recommendations:
1. Design land use control regulations to provide for all basic forms of housing (including single and two-family dwellings, multi-family units, mobile homes on individual lots, and mobile home parks) in order to offer a choice of a life styles for Township residents of all ages, family size and income levels. 2. Encourage the development of moderately-priced, affordable housing. 3. Protect the integrity of residential areas by develop- ing land use control regulations which will limit encroachment from incompatible land uses.
4. Preserve the character and vitality of existing residential neighborhoods through the development of thorough, sound land use control regulations. 5 . Investigate the availability of housing assistance funds or programs to assist in the rehabilitation of homes, 127 particularly those owned by residents of low or moderate income, as a means of protecting the existing housing stock and maintaining exterior structure appearances.
6. Consider the adoption of a building code to regulate the safety of new construction, including fire safety for high-rise and other multi-family dwelling structures.
GOAL # 9. Availability of additional recreational facilities. Recommendations:
1. Continue to support the efforts of the Township Park Commission and plans developed for use and maintenance of Round Top Park. Consider the feasibility and practicality of planning and providing for additional recreation activities at the same location to increase the variety or level of service provided for Township residents. 2. Determine the need for or interest in development of additional recreational facilities within the Township. If sufficient interest is generated, develop a plan and/or establish a schedule to address the identified issues.
3. Consider requiring developers to provide open space/ recreation areas within new developments.
4. Examine the possibility of developing multi-municipal recreation facilities to maximize financial investments and increase the variety or level of service provided.
GOAL # 10. Support of on-going historical/cultural programs and opportunities - Recommendations:
1. Work with local and regional historic organizations and knowledgeable local historians to develop a Township history and consult it when new projects are proposed.
2. Consider formalization of the Township Historic Committee to coordinate plans and activities for the municipality's bicentennial celebration in 1997. Examine the possible values of retaining the Committee after the bicentennial.
3. Identify historically significant structures and sites and encourage their registration on State and/or National Historic Registers to preserve the cultural heritage for future generations. 128 4. Arrange for a local historian to provide a review of historical significance and impact for developments proposed in areas of the Township which have been identified as potentially historic.
GOAL # 11. Provision of efficient government and school systems. Recommendations: 1. Where practical, automate routine administrative and clerical tasks as well as municipal police records. Enroll appropriate personnel in training programs to maximize use of computer or word processing capabilities. 2. Enlarge municipal building to accommodate expanding administrative and police service needs. _- 3. Develop job descriptions for all municipal positions and identify specific job functions and responsibilities for each position to maintain efficient government, 4. Endeavor to provide for community facilities and services and public utilities in an orderly and timely fashion by establishing an annual capital improvements program and reflecting the need for public facilities and services in the Township budget. 5. Investigate the benefits of regionalizing municipal services with adjacent or neighboring communities. 6. Administer and enforce land use control regulations in an equitable, consistent fashion throughout the Township. Examine the possibilities of establishing a specific 'dentif for Athens Township which would distinguish it from neig oring communities; i.e. a uniform zip code for the %$bentire municipality and/or a distinguishing mailing address. 8. Support the Athens Area School District in their efforts to provide quality education for district residents and adequate school facilities.
GOAL # 12. Assessment of on-going needs and identification of public funds available for both Township and joint municipal applications. and projects. Recommendations:
1. Maximize the effectiveness and extent of those limited State, Federal or regional grants or resources which may be
129 available by coordinating major projects with adjacent munic- ipalities or regional authorities, when possible. 2, Investigate the benefits of regionalizing services such as recreation, public utilities, sewage permit issuance, emergency services, cultural facilities and programs, transportation, etc. 3. Examine the possibilities of establishing a multi- municipal airport facility serving the valley region with officials from other regional municipalities. 4. Continue to work closely with the County Planning Commission and County Conservation District to review and evaluate all subdivision plans proposed in the Township. Maintain frequent contact with the Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission to coordinate planning efforts and secure timely information regarding the avail- ability of funds for various projects.
E. FUTURE LAND USE PLANNING CONCEPTS Specific long-range or future growth strategies or concepts related to land use in the Township are identified in this segment of the Development Plan. They were based on an evaluation of existing land uses and associated patterns, projected population increases and estimated future land requirements for basic types of anticipated uses, the functional suitability of the land area and the community's development goals and objectives. These planning concepts and land use recommendations represent an estimate of the type and amount of development that is likely to occur based on the constraints itemized above. Consistent with the recommendations in the County's Comprehensive Plan for Athens Township, this Plan provides for new residential, commercial and industrial development in the municipality, but also emphasizes the importance of maintaining existing agricultural activities and preserving the environmental quality of the community.
GENERAL CONCEPTS * The inventory of existing land uses shows that the majority of the Township is currently classified as agricultural. Woodlands occupy the second largest amount of land area in the Township, and public/semi-public uses represent a distant third. Together, however, these three uses account for almost 89% of the total acreage in the Township. Residential and commercial/industrial land uses comprise a comparatively small percentage of the total land area; just over 5%. * Future plans for the Township recognize at least six 130 dominant land uses and the physical relief which will likely impact their location.
* Steep slopes (slopes exceeding 20%) , floodplains, wetlands, and poor soils will render portions of the municipality unsuitable for development beyond their current use. Poor soils areas may become more suitable if adequate public or package sewage treatment facilities are provided. * Population projections for the next 10-15 years anticipate low to moderate growth for the Township, approximately 5-10%. * To accommodate the anticipated population growth, future land area needs in the Township will also increase. It is anticipated that an additional 600 acres will be needed for residential purposes, including single family dwellings and multi-family or other higher density residential developments. (The reduction in the av-erage size of households will actually mean that more dwelling units will need to be constructed in the future than in the past to accommodate the Township's population.) Agricultural activities and woodland areas will however continue to dominant the landscape. There may also be increased demands for seasonal or recreational developments in some of the more accessible wooded segments of the community as families residing in urban areas seek a secluded, peaceful location for weekend relaxation. * The community's goals and objectives indicate a strong desire to support existing local and regional economies and demonstrate an interest in providing space for businesses and industries in the Township as a means of sustaining a variety of employment opportunities for municipal residents. * The municipality has also indicated a desire to ensure that all future land uses will consider the capacity of the land to accommodate them and any potential environmental impacts they may cause.
LAND USE RECOMMENDATIONS It is therefore recommended for future planning purposes that the Township be divided into the following six (6) categories of land use: 1. Residential 2. Commercial 3. Industrial 4. Agriculture and Open Space 5. Forest or Woodland 6. Public/Semi-Public
131 Specific recommendations for the location of each land use can be found on Map 10, the Future Land Use Recommendations Map, in this Chapter. (This Map could serve as a foundation for the development of land use control regulations in the Township; i.e. a municipal zoning ordinance.) A brief description of the purpose of each of the categories and their potential sub-categories is as follows.
1. Residential * Low Densitv Residential. Areas should be identified within the Township to provide for low density residential development where public sewer and water utilities are not available, but where community or package sewage treatment and/or water supplies can be provided by prospective developers or utilities. Minimum lot sizes of 30,000 square feet or 3/4 of an acre and lot widths of 150 feet should be provided. (Scattered low density rural residen- tial development is provided for in the Agricultural category, Part 4 below.) * Moderate Densitv Residential. Space should be provided for the orderly expansion of moderate density, single family detached residential dwellings in those areas of the Township where essential public utilities (including sewer service and water supply) are available, i.e. the area between the Chemung and Susquehanna Rivers. Lot sizes should average about 20,000 square feet (one-half acre) with lot widths of at least 100 feet. * Hiah Densitv Residential. Areas within the Township should be provided to meet the needs of higher density residential uses, including single family attached (townhouses) and multi-family housing (apartments) developments, and mobile home parks. These uses should be located where adequate public sewer and water systems and other public services, i.e. police and fire protection, are readily available. Lot sizes for single family developments in these areas could be 15,000 square feet or less and lot widths of 75 feet could be accommodated.
2. Commercial Adequate space should be provided for the development of wholesale and retail commercial activities (businesses which serve the neighborhood or local need for goods and services as well as those which are oriented towards the travelling public) , service establishments and off ices. Areas estab- lished for these uses should preferably have adequate public utilities or package sewage treatment facilities available
132 and sufficient arrangements should be made to accommodate the anticipated volumes of traffic entering, exiting and parking on such sites.
3. Industrial Area should be designated for the location of light industrial or enclosed manufacturing operations. These areas should preferably be served by pubic sewer and water facilities and other essential utilities, such as adequate electrical supply and gas service, if necessary. They should be readily accessible to one of the community's major collector or arterial highways and should be of sufficient size to assure that all necessary parking, loading, access drives and buffer requirements can be met. 4. Auriculture and ODen SDace _- Areas with soils capable of producing agricultural or horticultural commodities, and other undeveloped open space areas, including pasture lands, marginal land areas, i.e. wetlands, floodplains, meadows, hollows, aquifer recharge areas, etc., should be reserved for the maintenance of such activities as a means of preserving the integrity of this facet of the community for future generations. In addition, scattered low density, rural residential land uses should be accommodated in these areas, but proposed subdivision or land development plans should be carefully reviewed to avoid harming environmentally-sensitive areas. 5. Forest or Woodland Forest or woodland areas should be set aside from the other land uses and recognized as a significant use in their own right. Such natural resources should be protected from inappropriate encroachment or development or from mismanage- ment to avoid their destruction or elimination. Such areas will undoubtedly also continue to provide space for various types of private recreational activities and as natural wildlife habitat areas.
6. Fublic/Semi-Public Although many of the activities classified as public/semi- public uses (including religious, educational, institution- al and government activities) can be accommodated within :I several of the categories described above, additional space should be identified for public enjoyment, including State Game Lands and municipal parks or recreation areas. Acreage allocations for each of the proposed land use categories as compared to existing acreage occupied by these uses
133 8l.DrOID CWlTT I LOCATION -MAP
MAP 10
FUTURE.LANDUSE RECOMMENDATIONS
LEGEND
a Single-Family Residential Multi-Family Residential Commercial @ Industrial Public/semi-wlic 0 Agriculture & Open Space Woodland
SOURCE: Athens Township. Topographic Quadrangles, U.S. Geological Survey, 1986: Field Survey, Landplan, Inc., July 1991; and Township Land UQ~Recommendations, 1991.
ATHENS TOWNSHIP BRADFORD COUNTY, PA are as follows.
Table 43 Comparison of Existing and Proposed Land Use Allocations 1992 - 2010
EXISTING PROPOSED % of Total % of Total Land Use Acrease Land Area Acrease Land Area
Residential 1,200 4.3% 1,800 #Lao 6.4% _-
300 1.1% 1,000 .).7@ 3.6% Public/Semi- Public 1,400 5.0% 1,600 kw 5.7% Streets/Rail- roads 540 1.9% 632 +9'L 2.2%
Agriculture 13 ,000 46.4% 11,750 0\:50 41.9%
Woodland 10,500 37.4% 10,200 p3* 36.4%
Water/Other /9% Undeveloped 1,092 3.9% 1,050 3.8% re TOTAL 28 ,032 100% 28,032 100%
Source: Field Survey by Landplan,Inc., July 1991; and Future Land Use Recommendations Map, Map 10 of this Report.
F. EFFECT ON ADJACENT MUNICIPALITIES During the development of the Township's Future Growth Recom- mendations, consideration was given to the development policies and land use control regulations that each adjacent municipality employs; particularly as it relates to development immediately adjacent to Athens Township. The table below indicates the respective policies and controls that each municipality currently follows.
134 Table 44
Land Use Control Policies & Regulations Adjacent Municipalities
Township/ Comprehensive Plan Subdivision Zoninq Boroucrh or Land Use Policy Ordinance Ordinance Litchfield Bradford Cty. Comp. Plan County none Sheshequin Bradford Cty. Comp. Plan County none Ulster Bradford Cty. Comp. Plan County none Smithfield Bradford Cty. Comp. Plan County none Ridgebury Bradford Cty. Comp. Plan County none S. Waverly Bradford Cty. Comp. Plan County Borough Sayre Bradford Cty. Comp. Plan County Borough Athens Borough Comp. -Plan County Borough
Source: Bradford County Planning Commission, June 1992. After reviewing the above-identified land use controls and policies, the following can be stated with respect to the rela- tionship between the Future Growth Recommendations for Athens Town- ship and the development policies of each adjacent municipality. The surrounding Townships are primarily residential, agricultural, and wooded with no significant land use conflicts along the contiguous borders. Since none of these municipalities has adopted a local comprehensive plan or land use policy within a local Zoning Ordinance, the policies contained in the Land Use Section of the Bradford County Comprehensive Plan, adopted in June 1982, are applicable. This document and its accompanying Future Land Use Map recommend preservation of the existing agricultural and woodland characteristics in each of the Townships where they adj oin Athens Township. Portions of Athens Township surround South Waverly, Sayre, and Athens Boroughs. Like the adjoining Townships, South Waverly and Sayre Boroughs have no municipal comprehensive plans, and are governed by the land use policies established in the County's Comprehensive Plan. Athens Borough, on the other hand, has prepared and adopted a local Comprehensive Plan and has identified its own development goals and objectives. All three of the Boroughs has enacted and is administering a local Zoning Ordinance. A review of the land use policies in the applicable Comprehensive Plan and the land use control regulations in effect in these municipalities indicates there are no significant conflicts between the proposed land use patterns of the Boroughs and those presented in this Plan for Athens Township.
135 G. INTERRELATIONSHIP OF PLAN COMPONENTS The various elements of this Plan are interrelated from beginning to end. The background chapters (1-9) evaluate current conditions and land uses in the Township; the goals (Chapter io) establish broad desires regarding the type and intensity of future development in the community; the objectives (following the goals) describe in more detail what must be done to meet each goal; and the recommendations (also Chapter 10) illustrate specific ways in which the goals may be achieved. Chapter 11 will identify specific short and long-term strategies which could be used to implement the various components of Chapter 10. In other words, the goal statements represent what the Township would like to see accomplished in the future; the objectives explain how each goal can be met: the recommendations include specific suggestions for achieving each goal; and the implementation strategies propose a timetable for addressing the recommendations. As stated previously, the intent throughout this Plan is to provide for future growth in the community in such a way that will maintain a the existing pleasant environment and quality of life.
136 CHAPTER 11. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
Preparing and adopting a comprehensive plan are only the first steps in the municipal planning process. Utilization and implementation of the plan's recommendations are the other steps; perhaps the most important aspects of the process. Even though a plan can identify existing problems and opportunities and make recommendations to correct or realize them, the plan can only be effective if its suggestions are followed. The plan's recommendations are intended to help guide future growth in the Township. Its effectiveness will therefore be directly related to how often it is utilized by public and private organizations and individuals. In this case, the Township Supervisors and municipal Planning Commission must take primary responsibility for the implementation of the plan's goals and objectives. They must coordinate with county and regional planning organizations and other governmental agencies such as the Department of Environmental Resources, the Department of Community Affairs, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the Environmental Protection Agency regulating or addressing development in the region, while taking action within the Township to implement the plan's recommendations. This chapter lists short and long term actions designed to promote or achieve the goals and objectives specified in Chapter 10. (Such actions include a periodic review of the plan itself and the goals and objectives included in it. ) Capital improvements programming and potential funding methodologies are also discussed and reviewed at the conclusion of this Chapter.
A. LAND USE CONTROL REGULATION RECOMMENDATIONS Land use control regulations are the best tools available to guide the future development of a community to the best suited areas and implement the recommendations made in a Comprehensive Plan . Such controls include both subdivision and zoning regulations. Subdivision regulations direct or control how a piece of land can be divided or laid out in lots, where zoning regulations indicate the specific types of uses which may occupy a lot or may be located in a given zoning district. Subdivision and land development regulations were first enacted in Athens Township in 1968 and have been enforced in the municipality ever since. The Township Planning Commission, with the assistance of the municipal office staff, handles the routine administration of this Ordinance. The Commission conducts thorough reviews of all proposals and makes recommendations for appropriate 137 action to the Township Supervisors, who ultimately approve or disapprove all subdivision or development plans. Zoning regulations focus on the capacity of the land, its soils, slopes, and the location of existing and projected infrastructure (sewer and water lines, utilities, highways, etc.) to determine the most suitable location for different types of land uses. In this case, since so many of the Township's goals and objectives can be aided by directing future land uses to specific segments of the municipality, the development of zoning regulations would seem to be a logical step. The adoption of a zoning ordinance would give the Township protection from many regional and internal influences affecting land uses. For example, future population growth and commercial or industrial development occurring in the area could be directed to the most appropriate areas of the Township, thereby reducing the likelihood of the community incurring haphazard development or of such development occurring in inappropriate areas. Several cautions must be observed during the development and administration of a municipal zoning ordinance. First, it is important that the zoning ordinance preserve the rights of existing land owners, while at the same time furthering overall community goals and fostering balanced growth. Secondly, the administration and enforcement of the ordinance must be equitable. And lastly, the zoning ordinance, like the comprehensive plan itself, must be periodically reviewed and, if necessary, revised to reflect changing conditions or new development techniques. Refinements may also be suggested as the zoning ordinance is actively used by the Township and its citizens.
B. PRIORITIES AND IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE The Township does not have the capacity to immediately undertake all of the recommendations included in Chapter 10. As a means of prioritizing the schedule for implementation of the specific proposals made in the Plan, the strategies have been divided into two categories; short-term and long-term implementa- tion. Each of the recommendations in the short-term category should be undertaken within one year after the adoption of this Plan . Those identified as long-term strategies should be considered for implementation within one to five years after the plan is enacted. The proposed actions have been further separated into categories which identify potential budgetary impacts for the community. And, specific responsibilities for each strategy have been assigned to the applicable municipal agency, group, personnel or individual. (The strategies are not presented in order of importance within each category, but are intended to generally 138 follow the same sequence or order as the goals, objectives and recommendations contained in Chapter 10. The suggested personnel assignments are however presented in order of their likely involvement in each task.)
SHORT-TERM IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES With Limited Budaet ImDact 1. Consider issuing a press release and/or sending out a newsletter to Township residents regarding adoption of the Comprehensive Plan. Township Supervisors (Public Relations Committee) and Planning Commission
2. Consider issuing a press release and/or sending out a newsletter to Township residents regarding the development of municipal zoning regulations. Township Supervisors (Public Relations Committee) and Planning Commission
3. Continue to support the expansion of existing Agricultural Security Areas, and encourage IIClean & Green" tax benefit enrollments as a means of preserving farmland. Township Planning Commission and Supervisors (Agriculture Committee )
4. Support agricultural production as a viable economic activity and encourage marketing of farm products in the Township. Develop strategies to enhance farm income through management practices education and identification of opportunities for specialty agriculture. Township Planning Commission, Supervisors (Agriculture Committee) and interested citizens groups
5. Maintain a current, thorough Sewage Facilities Plan to ensure proper planning for sewage disposal in the Township. Township Supervisors (Public Health Committee), Sewer Authority, and Planning Commission
6. Consider the need to institute a septage management program for unsewered areas of the Township to ensure long- term soils viability. Township Supervisors (Public Health Committee), Sewer Authority, and Planning Commission
7. Maintain a current, realistic plan for handling and disposing of solid waste generated within the municipality by residents, businesses and industries, including policies promoting recycling efforts and arrangements for periodic collection and disposal of "white goodstt. Township Supervisors (Solid Waste Committee)
8. Consider organizing a I'Community Clean-up Campaign" 139 to target unsightly trash, or junked cars and equipment abandoned throughout the Township. Encourage property owners to screen unsightly areas with landscaping if removal of the trash is not feasible. Township Supervisors (Solid Waste Committee) and work crew
9. Encourage thorough review by PADOT of all proposed new access points along State-owned arterial or collector highways (especially PA Routes 220 and SR 1069, Elmira Street) to avoid creating potentially unsafe intersections and situations. Township Planning Commission and Supervisors (Highway Committee)
10. Continue to require municipal Driveway Permits for the construction of all new driveways onto Township roads, Township Planning Commission and Supervisors (Highway Committee) _- 11. Identify specific street intersection or other traffic control problems, including cross-walks in commercial areas, and develop a prioritized list of recommended improve- ment projects for both the State and local transportation networks, Township Planning Commission, Supervisors (Highway Committee), and highway crew
12, Pursue potential traffic improvement funding to widen the full length of Elmira Street (from Pine St. to K- Mart Plaza) and provide a turning lane to improve circula- tion and facilitate access to the commercial development located along this highway. Township Supervisors (Highway Committee) 13 - Formalize an on-going improvement/maintenance program for all municipally-owned roads and bridges throughout the Township, identifying by year those projects intended for completion, Township Supervisors (Highway Committee) and highway crew
14 , Complete the municipal road naming effort by installing signs to properly identify all streets in the Township. Investigate the availability of funds to erect such signs. Township Supervisors (Highway Committee) and highway crew 15. Continue to identify existing drainage or run-off problems along Township and State roads and establish a schedule to correct them, Township Supervisors (Highway Committee), highway crew, and PADOT
16. Continue to coordinate, to the extent possible, all sewer, water and other utility installation projects with existing or proposed road or highway improvement projects ,
140 Township Supervisors (Highway Committee), Sewer Authority, Planning Commission, and highway crew 17. Encourage a variety of employment opportunities for Township residents while preserving a healthful and pleasant environment, Work with existing economic development agencies (including VEDA and Northern Tier Regional Planning and Devel- opment Commission) to prepare a thorough plan for industrial and commercial development in the Township. Township Planning Commission and Supervisors (Economic Development Committee)
18. Support continued efforts by Northern Tier Career Center and BOCES to develop and maintain a pool of skilled employees for local businesses and industries. ' Township Supervisors (Economic Development Committee)
19. Support the many college and extension night courses offered by a large number of two and four-year institutions in the area. Township Supervisors (Economic Development Commit tee) 20. Identify historically significant structures and sites and encourage their registration on State and/or National Historic Registers to preserve the cultural heritage for future generations. Township Planning Commission, Historic Committee, and/or local historian
21. Develop job descriptions for all municipal positions and identify specific job functions and responsibilities for each position to maintain efficient government. Township Planning Commission and Supervisors (Public Relations Committee)
22. Schedule a series of meetings with officials from adjoining municipalities to discuss mutual concerns and to address potential opportunities for coordination of projects. Township Supervisors (Public Relations Committee) and Planning Commission
SHORT-TERM IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES With Budset Inwact
1. Develop a local Zoning Ordinance that considers the character of the various segments of the Township; gives major consideration to the capacity of the area's natural resources, including soils, water supply, etc:, to accommodate new development; and discourages utilization of environmentally- sensitive areas, Township Planning Commission, Supervisors (Zoning Committee), Consultant, and Solicitor
14 1 2. Hire a municipal Zoning Officer to administer the Zoning Ordinance and issue all Building Permits. Contact neighboring municipalities to determine feasibility of utilizing a '@circuit rider" to administer several municipal Zoning Ordinances. Township Supervisors (Zoning Committee) and Planning Commission
3. Administer and enforce land use control regulations in an equitable, consistent fashion throughout the Township. Township Zoning Officer 4. Identify natural features and resource areas in the Township and protect these valuable assets by establishing reasonable controls to govern their conservation, disturbance and management. Include provisions requiring minimization of disturbance to natural features and mitigation of any adverse impacts on these irreplaceable resources. Township Planning Commission, Supervisors- (Natural Features Committee), and e Solicitor 5. Identify and map environmentally-sensitive areas (including slopes exceeding 20%, floodplains, wetlands, and ground water recharge areas) to ensure adequate review of developments proposed in these areas. Township Planning Commission, Supervisors (Natural Features Committee), and Consultant
6. Negotiate additional capacity allocation in Sayre/ Athens Sewage Treatment Plant to accommodate future develop- ment and to recruit commercial/industrial growth in Athens Township. Township Supervisors (Public Health Committee) and Sewer Authority
7. Actively pursue State and Federal grant and loan assistance programs to provide cost-effective and financially feasible public sewer and/or water projects. Township Supervisors (Finance Committee) and Sewer Authority
8. Enforce all existing nuisance regulations, including dog ordinances, open burning limitations, and weed ordinances. Township Supervisors (Public Safety/Health Committees)
9. Rebuild all streets disturbed by the installation of sewer lines. Utilize grant monies, to the extent possible, to make the necessary repairs. Township Supervisors (Highway Committee) and highway crew
10. Automate routine administrative and clerical tasks as well as municipal police records. Enroll appropriate personnel in training programs to maximize use of computer or word processing capabilities. Township Supemisors (Finance Committee ) 11. Enlarge the Township Building to accommodate expand- ing administrative and police service needs. Township Supervisors (Municipal Building Committee)
LONG-TERM IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES With Limited Budaet ImDact
1. Monitor State-determined water quality of streams in the Township and prevent pollution to the extent possible. Discourage encroachment in proximity to municipal streams, (in particular, streams designated as high quality or exceptional value waterways by the PA Department of Environmental Resour- ces), where such activity threatens to degrade the natural conditions or qualities of the water course, Township Planning Commission _- 2. Consider participation in a Vurchase of Development Rights" program if offered by the County as a means of preserving prime agricultural areas. Township Supervisors (Agriculture Committee)
3. Maintain the present arrangements for Township fire protection provided by the Athens Township volunteers. Increase citizen awareness of potential fire hazards by supporting public education programs sponsored by the Depart- ment. Township Supervisors (Fire Committee) and volunteer firemen 4. Coordinate planning for flood emergencies, wind emergencies, hazardous materials emergencies, and medical emergencies with neighboring municipalities, local and County Emergency Management personnel and applicable service providers. Establish appropriate procedures for response to and mitigation of such potential disasters. Township Supervisors (Emergency Management Committee) and Township and County Emergency Management personnel
5. Consider the enactment of a soliciting and/or peddling ordinance to regulate periodic, unauthorized sales of goods or materials throughout the Township. Township Planning Commission and Supervisors (Public Safety Committee)
6, Consider adoption of regulations to prohibit ltthroughlttruck traffic on residential streets in developed areas of the Township. Township Supervisors (Bighway/Public Safety Committees)
7. Periodically review all existing road directional, speed limit and weight restriction signage and determine its adequacy and consistency, Adjust or increase where approp- 143 riate. Post weight limit and advance warning signs for all Township-owned bridges as recommended by bridge inspection engineers. Township Supervisors (Highway Committee) and highway crew
8. Monitor State and County transportation policies as they relate to proposed or potential improvement projects in the vicinity of the Township to coordinate State and local planning efforts and to determine their possible impact on the municipality. Township Planning Commission and Supervisors (Highway Committee) 9. Encourage the development of moderately-priced, affordable housing. Township Planning Commission
10. Investigate the availability of housing assistance funds or programs to assist in the rehabilitation of homes, particularly those owned by residents of low or moderate income, as a means of protecting the existing housing stock and maintaining exterior structure appearances. Township Planning Commission and Zoning Officer
11. Consider the adoption of a building code to regulate the safety of new construction, including fire safety for high-rise and other multi-family dwelling structures. Eval- uate the need to enact a Building/Property Maintenance Code to deter property deterioration and unsightly accumulations. Township Planning Commission, Zoning Officer and Supervisors (Public safety Committee)
12. Continue to support the efforts of the Township Park Commission and plans developed for use and maintenance of Round Top Park. Consider the feasibility and practicality of planning and providing for additional recreation activities at the same location to increase the variety or level of service provided for Township residents. Township Supervisors (Recreation Committee) and Park Commission 13. Determine the need for or interest in development of additional recreational facilities within the Township, including the development of a trail system utilizing abandoned railroad rights-of-way. If sufficient interest is generated, develop a plan and/or establish a schedule to address the identified issues, and investigate possible funding sources. Township Planning Commission, Supervisors (Recreation Committee) and Park Commission
14. Work with local and regional historic organizations and knowledgeable local historians to develop a Township history and consult it when new projects are proposed. Township Planning Commission
144 15. Consider formalization of the Township Historic Committee to coordinate plans and activities for the munic- ipality's bicentennial celebration in 1997. Examine the possible values of retaining the Committee after the bicen- tennial. Township Supervisors (Public Relations Committee)
16. Examine the possibilities of establishing a specific identity for Athens Township which would distinguish it from neighboring communities, i.e. a uniform zip code *for the entire Township and/or a distinguishing municipal mailing address. Township Planning Commission
17. Support the Athens Area School District in their efforts to provide quality education for district residents and adequate school facilities. Township Supervisors (Public Relations Committee)
18. Maximize the-effectiveness and extent of limited State, Federal or regional grants or resources which may be available by coordinating major projects with adjacent municipalities or regional authorities, when possible. Township Supervisors (Finance Committee)
19. Investigate the benefits of regionalizing services such as recreation, public utilities, sewage permit issuance, emergency services, cultural facilities and programs, trans- portation, etc. with neighboring municipalities. Township Planning Commission and Supervisors (Public Relations/Finance Committees)
20. Maintain frequent contact with the Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission to coordinate planning efforts and secure timely information regarding the availability of funds for various projects. Township Planning Commission and Supervisors (Finance Committee)
21. Periodically review the Development Goals, Objec- tives and Recommendations (including Implementation Strat- egies) of this Plan to determine if and where updates or adjustments need to be made. Township Planning Commission
LONG-TERM IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES With Budset Impact
1. Review and update, as necessary, municipal Subdivis- ion Ordinance provisions. Township Planning Commission and Township Supervisors (Subdivision Committee)
2. Identify and map, where possible, areas of the Township affected by electro-magnetic fields and monitor 145 development located in these areas. Township Planning Commission and Consultant
3. Identify insect problems throughout the Township and determine need for municipal or regional vector control programs. Township Planning Commission and Supervisors (Public Health Committee)
4. Continue to accept ownership and operation responsib- ilities for lusatellitellpackage sewage treatment plants built or supplied by developers and located in the Township, as deemed appropriate, following completion of construction and installation by the developer/owner, i.e. Queen Esther Estates, the Webster Development, the Them/Wilawana Subdivision. Township Supervisors (Public Health Committee) and Sewer Authority 5. Consider thO feasibility and practicality of extending public water supply lines to serve other areas of the Township, especially those with demonstrated water quality and/or quantity problems, i. e. Stover I s Acres. Township Supervisors (Public Health Committee), Planning Commission, Consultant, and/or developer
6. Maintain the present arrangements for Township police protection provided by the Athens Township Police Department. Support requests for upgraded equipment, as appropriate, and within the constraints of the municipal budget. Township Supervisors (Police Committee) 7. Support necessary equipment upgrades and facility improvements, as requested by the Fire Department, to help maintain the best possible level of service. Township Supervisors (Fire Committee)
8. Support the development of an enhanced 11911uu emergency telephone dialing system for the Township and the coordination of emergency services dispatching in the area. Township Supervisors (Public Safety/Police/Fire Committees) and Township and County Emergency Management personnel
9. Endeavor to provide for community facilities and services and public utilities in an orderly and timely fashion by establishing an annual capital improvements program and reflecting the need for public facilities and services in the Township budget. Identify and prioritize specific projects, and indicate estimated costs and potential funding sources. Township Planning Commission, Supervisors (Finance Committee), Sewer Authority, Recreation Commission, Police Department, and highway crew 10. Examine the possibilities of establishing a multi-
14 6 municipal airport facility serving the valley region with officials from other regional municipalities. Township Planning Commission and Supervisors (Airport Committee)
C. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM RECOMMENDATIONS Capital improvements programming is the multi-year scheduling of physical public improvements and other major municipal expenditures, such as equipment or vehicle purchases, with consideration for priorities, timing and the financial capabilities of the community. Such a program is generally used to help a community plan ahead for public works projects or expenditures that cannot be completed during one fiscal year or which cannot be funded from a single annual budget. Projects or expenditures included in a capital improvements program are generally scheduled or estimated over a 5 to 6 year period. _- To be most effective, the program needs to include projected costs for each project or item listed and should suggest possible funding sources, as well as include an estimated timetable or anticipated schedule for project initiation and completion. A detailed capital improvements program could prove to be a valuable aid for the Township Supexvisors as they annually establish budgets and determine the need for tax increases or the use of other revenue-producing mechanisms. (See Sub-section D. below for a discussion of various project financing options.) Such a document should also help the Township plan ahead and anticipate projects and expenditures, thereby providing them with the opportunity to spread out needed tax increases, rather than imposing a significant increase all at once, and helping to assure them that they have stretched their dollars as far as possible. The process also presents the Township with the opportunity to schedule projects over time so that all steps in the development of an area occur logically and in the proper sequence. In many cases, a capital improvements budget, based on the improvements program recommendations, is prepared as part of the community's annual operating budget. This part of the budget would identify specific capital projects for the coming year together with their costs and sources of funds. The entire capital improvements program should also be reviewed and updated on an annual basis. Those projects completed or purchases made during the preceding year should be eliminated and new projects should be added at the end of the list, and costs and funding sources reevaluated. Input for the program should be sought from all departments or agencies within the Township, including the Police Department, Recreation Commission, Highway Department, Sewer Authority, Admin- istration, and the Township Planning Commission. And, before 147 formal adoption, the general public should be given the opportunity to review and comment on the proposed projects and budgets, in much the same way as an annual budget is presented for public inspection. The following Table illustrates some of the categories and projects or items that could be used as a beginning point for Athens Township in the development of a capital improvements program.
Table 45 Athens Township Recommended Capital Improvements Projects 1992-1998 I. LAND USE .- A. Zoning Ordinance Development B. Subdivision Ordinance Update 11. PUBLIC UTILITIES A. Sanitary Sewer 1. Sewer Line Extensions 2. Package Treatment Plant Operation & Maintenance B. Water Supply
1. Water Line Extensions 2. System Improvements/Line Replacements 111. PUBLIC SAFETY A. Municipal Police Protection 1. Equipment Upgrades 2. Vehicle Replacements B. Volunteer Fire Service 1 . Equipment Upgrades 2. Vehicle/Truck Replacements C. Emergency Management
1. Enhanced 911 System Development 2. Emergency Services Dispatching Coordination 3. Emergency Operations Plan Development (Continued on Next Page)
148 IV. HIGHWAYS A, Road Improvements Projects ( i. e. paving, curbs, sidewalks) B. Road Maintenance Equipment Purchases C. Road Maintenance Vehicle Purchases V. RECREATION A. Round Top Park - Recreation Equipment Purchases B. Additional Recreation Areas 1. Park Plan Development 2. Land Acquisition 3. Recreation Equipment Purchases VI. ADMINISTRATION A. Computer System _- 1. Hardware 2. Software 3. Training B. Equipment Purchases (i.e. Typewriters, Desks, Furniture) VII. PUBLIC FACILITIES A. Township Building Expansion B. Municipal Airport Development
D. PROJECT FUNDING OPTIONS There are numerous ways or methods to finance capital improve- ments projects. Several are listed below with a brief definition 0 and an explanation of their purpose, 1. Current Revenue This is the ggpay-as-you-goggapproach to financing projects from current revenues, i.e. general taxation, fees, service charges, special funds or special assessments. No borrowing is involved. 2. Reserve Funds This type of improvement financing is reserved in advance and is funds are accumulated for capital construction. Funds come from surplus or are earmarked current revenues. When sufficient funding is accumulated, project construction is begun or equipment purchase is made.
149 3. General Obliqation Bonds General obligation bonds are bonds sold to finance permanent improvements such as schools, hospitals and similar facilities. Such financing can often require voter approval though since principal and interest on the bonds are paid out of tax revenues. 4. Revenue Bonds Revenue bonds are bonds sold to produce revenue for specific projects. These bonds are financed by service fees or charges associated with the capital project. Water and sewer systems are many times financed with this type of bond. The interest rate on revenue bonds is typically higher than the interest rate for general obligation bonds.
5. Lease-Purchase _- With this type of arrangement, a private company, author- ity or individual builds the public works project to the specifications of the local government and then leases the facility to that government. At the end of the lease, the original cost of the project plus interest has been paid and the local government receives ownership.
6. Authorities and Special Districts Authorities or special districts are generally established by a municipality where a facility or project will serve a specific area. The project may be financed by revenue bonds, user charges, or a special tax may be applied in the district. 7. Special Assessments This method of financing provides a more equitable method of funding public works projects that benefit particular properties. In this case, property owners benefiting from a project pay a special assessment to finance the project or facility.
8. State and Federal Grants and/or Loans Various state and Federal grants and/or loans are sometimes available to finance capital projects and programs, including Community Development Block Grants through the Department of Community Affairs, PennVEST, or Farmer I s Home Administration funds. Grants are generally competitive and municipalities usually need to meet specific criteria in order to be eligible for the government-sponsored monies. In many cases, grants also require a local match or share, although
150 the percentage varies between programs.
9. Tax Increment Financinq This type of funding is generally associated with large scale redevelopment in urban and suburban areas. The increased tax base created by the redevelopment project is used to retire bonds which were sold to finance the project. Increased tax revenues in the project area are distributed normally after the project costs are retired.
151 RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors of Athens Township, Bradford County, PA, possess the legal authority under Article I11 of the PAMunicipalities Planning Code, Act 247 of 1968, as amended by Act 170 of 1988, to adopt a municipal Comprehensive Plan; and WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors of Athens Township, Bradford County, PA, on March 6, 1989, initially authorized the expenditure of municipal funds and selected a consultant to assist the Township Planning Commission in the development of such a Plan; and WHEREAS, in September 1992 the Township Planning Commission and municipal consultant, completed the development of a "Comprehensive Plan for Athens Township - 1992" (Second Draft) ; and _- WHEREAS, the Athens Township Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors- held a Public Hearing pursuant to public notice on , 1992 to receive-public comment on the proposed Plan. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors of Athens Township, Bradford County do hereby adopt the Second Draft of the IIComprehensive Plan for Athens Township - 1992l@, in its entirety. IN WITNESS THEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands and seals this day of , 1992.
ATHENS TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS
Chairman
ATTEST:
SEAL: Athens Township Secretary
152 APPENDIX A
MASOR REGIONAL EMPLOYERS
A-l APPENDIX A MAJOR REGIONAL EMPLOYERS
MAJOR PENNSYLVANIA EMPLOYERS Name/Product or Service Location Employees Guthrie Healthcare System Sayre 3,400 * (Health Care)
GTE Corporation - Sylvania Towanda 1,132 (Chemicals and Metals)
E.I. Dupont DeNemours & Co., Inc. Towanda 933 (Photo Chemicals) -. Ingersoll-Rand Company Athens 609 (Power Hand Tools)
Masonite Corporation Towanda 598 (Hardboard Products)
Bradford County Commissioners Bradford County 392 (Public Services)
Athens Area School District Athens 302 (Elementary/Secondary)
Paxar (Fasco) Sayre 250-300 (Labeling Systems)
Memorial Hospital Towanda 245 (Health Care)
Stroehmann's Bakery Sayre 182 (Baked Goods)
Guthrie Inn Sayre 102 (Lodging)
K-MART Sayre 100 (General Retail)
Friend Laboratory, Inc. Waverly 65 (Analytical Services)
Endless Mts. Transportation Athens Twp. 50 (Public Transit Services)
Beeman's Restaurant Athens Twp. 47 (Food) * Includes satellite offices in PA and NY APPENDIX A PENNSYLVANIA EMPLOYERS (Continued) Financial Institutions Location
Citizens & Northern Bank Athens Twp. & Borough First National Bank of Bradford County Athens Twp. & Sayre BCE Federal Credit Union Athens Twp. Ingersoll-Rand Federal C.U. Athens Borough Northern Central Bank Athens Borough First Citizens Bank Sayre
Commonwealth Bank & Trust . Sayre (2 branches) PSC Federal Credit Union Sayre Packer-Guthrie Federal C.U. Sayre
ADDITIONAL PA EMPLOYERS Name/Product or Service Location Acme South Waverly (Grocery/Food) Ames Department Store Athens Twp. (General Retail) Burger King Athens Twp. (Fast Food) Croft Lumber Co. Sayre (Lumber) G.E. Railcar Service Sayre (Railcar Rebuilding) Great American Foods Athens Twp. (Food) Heritage Nursing Home Athens (Long Term Care) McDonalds South Waverly (Fast Food)
P & C Foods Athens Twp. (Grocery/Food)
APPENDIX A PENNSYLVANIA EMPLOYERS (Continued) Rynone Manufacturing Corp. Sayre (Cabinets and Countertops) Safety Kleen Athens Twp. (Recycling) Valley Cities Gas Service Sayre (Fuel Oil)
MAJOR NEW YORK EMPLOYERS Name/Product or Service Location Employees
Tioua County
IBM (Federal Systems Div.) Owego 3,500
Leprino Foods Waverly 200 (Cheese)
Gold Medal Ladder Co. Newark Valley 100
Hancor, Inc. Waverly 60 (Plastic Pipe) Hadco Corp. Owego M.L.I. Apalachin SCI Technology Owego Stakmore Owego
Chemuncr County Hardinge Brothers, Inc. Elmira 1,000-1,499 (Precision Machines) Toshiba Display Devices, Inc. Horseheads 1,000-1,499 Artistic Greetings, Inc. Elmira 600 (Direct Marketing) ABB-Traction, Inc. Elmira Heights 600 (Rehab of rapid transit vehicles) Schweizer Aircraft Corporation Elmira 500 (Aircraft)
APPENDIX A NEW YORK EMPLOYERS (Continued) Name/Product or Service Location Employees Anchor Glass Container Corp. Elmira 499 (Glass Manufacturing) Kennedy Valve Elmira 400 Division of McWane, Inc. (Valves, Hydrants) Purolator Elmira 250-500 (Automotive Components) IST - Imagine & Sensing Horseheads 250-499 Technology Corporation LRC Electronics, Inc. _. Horseheads 250-499 Augat Communications Division The Hilliard Corporation Elmira 200-249
F.M. Howell & Company Elmira 200-249 RKB Enterprises, Inc. Elmira 200-249 Trayer Products, Inc. Elmira 200-249 Westinghouse Electric Corp. Horseheads 200-249
Aetna Life & Casualty Elmira 150-199 Personal Financial Security Div. Emhart Powers Elmira 150-199 Keystone Bindery Services Horseheads 150-199 Eastern Metal/USA Sign 100-150 (Architectural Signage)
Elmira Stamping & Mfg. Co. Elmira 100-150 (Metal Stamping) Powers Manufacturing Division 100-150 (Process Control Equipment)
Ward '79 Limited 100-150 (Fire Apparatus)
Steuben County Corning, Inc. Corning * 6,000-7,000 (Consumer, Industrial, Medical, Optical, Ceramic t Glass Products) APPENDIX A NEW YORK EMPLOYERS (Continued)
NamelProduct or Service EmD 1oyees Dresser-Rand 1,000-1,500 (Air Compressors) Morrison-Knudsen Co. 1,000-1,500 (Transit Car Repairs) Gunlocke Co., Inc. 1,000-1,050 (Furniture) Mercury Aircraft 650- 750 (Sheet Metal Products) Philips Lighting 500-750 (High Intensity Lamps) The Taylor Wine Company 400 (wine) Pollio Dairy Products 350-425 (Cheese Products) General Marble Corp. 250-275 (Bathroom Vanities) Marion Rohr 250-350 (Women's Lingerie) A.L. Blades t Sons Inc. 200-250 (Construction) Sherron Farms, Inc. 150-160 (Growers) Clark Specialty Co., Inc. 100-150 (Sheet Metal Fabrications)
Crowley Foods Inc. 100-150 (Dairy Products) Stern t Stern Huguet Textiles, Inc. 100-110 (Woven Fabrics) * Includes branch in Horseheads
Broome Countv IBM Corporation 9,000 (Data Processing Equipment)
APPENDIX A NEW YORX EMPLOYERS (Continued) Name/Product or Service New York State Government (Government Services)
IBM Federal Sector Division 4 ,000 (Avionics, Communications, Computer Integrated Manufacturing, Federal System Integration)
United Health Services 3 ,200 (Health Care)
Broome County Government 2 ,000 (Government Services)
SUNY at Binghamton -. 2 ,000 (Higher Education) CAE-LINK Corp. 1,900 (Aircraft Flight Simulators & Training Systems) Amphenol Corp., Bendix Connector Operations 1,700 (Electronic Connectors) Lourdes Hospital 1,550 (Health Care Services) General Electric Areospace 1,400 (Electronic Components for Military Products)
NYS Electric & Gas Corporation 1,300 (Electric Power & Natural Gas Service) Anitec Imaging Products Div., International Paper 1,000 (Photographic Supplies) Universal Instruments Corporation 1,000 (Automation Equipment & Systems for Electronics Manufacturing Assembly & Testing)
Endicott Johnson, Corp. 950 (Footwear) Raymond Corporation 900 (Forklifts and Material Handlers) US (Federal) Government 900 (Government Services)
BOCES 750 (Education Services)
APPENDIX A NEW YO R EMPLOYERS (Continue Name/Product or Service Emlovees
Dover Electronics 750 (Electronic Circuit Design & Manufacturing) Maple-Vail Book Manufacturing Group Vail-Ballou Press, Inc. 660 (Book Composition, Printing & Binding)
Broome Community College 600 (Educational Services)
Frito-Lay 575 (Snack Foods)
Felchar Manufacturing Corp. 450 (Electric Motors, Chain Saws & Vac Heads)
Binghamton Press Co., Inc. 400 (Daily Newspaper)
Amphenol Interconnect Corp. 350 (Electronic Cable Assemblies & Connectors)
Source: Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission, Towanda, PA: Cornunity Data, County of Bradford, August 1988; Corning and Elmira New York Chambers of Commerce, 1991; Broome County, 1992 : and Athens Township Planning Commission, 1992.
APPENDIX A APPENDIX B
-. - ATHENS TOWNSHIP BUSINESSES
B-1 APPENDIX B
ATHENS TOWNSHIP BUSINESSES 1992
Acorn Markets Aikens Line Construction 853 N. Elmira St. RD Riverside Drive Sayre, PA 18840 Athens, PA 18810
Ames Department Store Arnold's Truck Center 407 N. Elmira St. 209 N. Elmira St. Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840
Athens Animal Hospital Ballentine Service Center Riverside Drive, RD 2 FUI 2, Murray Creek Road Athens, PA 18818 Sayre, PA 18840
Barden Homes Bear's Den 246 N. Elmira St. 810 N. Elmira St. Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840 _- Beeman's Restaurant Blue Berry Mountain N. Elmira St. RD 2, Mink Ranch Road Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840
Blue Spruce Laundromat Blue Spruce Mobile Home Court 252 N. Elmira St. 253 N. Elmira St. Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840
Bob's Body Shop Bob's Honda RD 2, Meadowlark Road 607 N. Elmira St. Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840
Bostwick Plumbing & Repair Burger King RD 1, Round Top Road 303 N. Elmira St. Athens, PA 18810 Sayre, PA 18840
C & S Car Wash Calhoun's Stove Center 510 N. Elmira St. RD 1, Front Street Sayre, PA 18840 Athens, PA 18810
Callear Butcher Shop Calvin C. Cole, Inc. RD 1, Macaffee Road 809 N. Elmira St. Athens, PA 18810 Sayre, PA 18840
Campbell Builders Camper & Cargo RD 2, Center St. RD 2, Wilawana Road Athens, PA 18810 Sayre, PA 18840
Century 21 Jackson Real Estate Chelsea Mobile Home Court 252 N. Elmira St. 924 N. Elmira St. Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840
Citizens & Northern Bank Max Cohen Auto Parts 503 N. Elmira St. RD 2, Front St. Sayre, PA 18840 Athens, PA 18810
Cole's Storage Warehouse Country Clipper 924 N. Elmira St. RD 2, Wilawana Road Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840
Country Lanes & Rhodes Crestview Mobile Home Park Bressler Street RD 1, Route 220 Sayre, PA 18840 Athens, PA 18810
APPENDIX B Page Two
Douglas Brothers Paving Kathleen Dowd Beauty Shop RD1 Pennsylvania Ave. Athens, PA 18810 Sayre, PA 18840
DeSisti Mobile Home Court Dick's Auto Supply N. Elmira St. 256 N. Elmira St. Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840 Dr. Duane A. Danko E-J's Diner 828 N. Elmira St. 843 N. Elmira St. Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840
EZ Car Wash Eastern Penn Supply 701 N. Elmira St. W. Pine St. Sayre, PA 18840 Athens, PA 18810
Ronald Ellers Endless Mts. Transportation Auth. 304 N. Elmira St. RD 1, Route 220 Sayre, PA 18840 _- Athens, PA 18810 Factory Direct Homes Frank's Salvage Yard e RD 1, Route 220 Front St. Athens, PA 18810 Sayre, PA 18840
Fays Drugs Ferguson Beauty Shop 311 N. Elmira St. RD 2, Wilawana Road Sayre, PA $8840 Sayre, PA 18840
First Nat'l Bank of Bradford Co. Fischer Machine & Tool Corp. N. Elmira St. RD 2, Front St. Sayre, PA 18840 Athens, PA 18810
Flowers by Julius, Inc. Fulmer Brothers Tire 186 McDuffee St. 700 N. Elmira St. Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840
Furman & Jones Body Shop Great American RD 2, South Road 1006 N. Elmira St. Athens, PA 18810 Sayre, PA 18840
Greenslanding Citgo G.T.E. North e RD 1, Route 220 McDuffee St. Athens, PA 18810 Sayre, PA 18840
Haner's Auto Sales Henry's Real Estate 936 W. Lockhart St. 820 N. Elmira St. Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840
Henry Dunn, Inc. Hibbards Saw Filing 416 N. Elmira St. RD 1, Birch Lane Sayre, PA 18840 Athens, PA 18818
HH Resources Horton's Beauty Shop RD, Birch Lane 118 Lewis St. Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840
Hubish's Mobile Home Court Hurley's Home t Garden Center RD 1, Wildwood Road 421 N. Elmira St. Sayre, PA 18840 ' Sayre, PA 18840
Janiak Landscaping & Nursery Jeanne's Craft Shop 803 N. Elmira St. RD 2, Stacey Lane Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840 APPENDIX B Page Three Jolley's Western Store K-Mart RD 2, Wolcott Hollow Road 1000 N. Elmira St. Athens, PA 18810 Sayre, PA 18840 Keir Mobile Home Park Key Auto Parts RD 2, Front St. 312 N. Elmira St. Athens, PA 18810 Sayre, PA 18840 Keystone Collision Auto Body LaBarr Electric Birch Lane RD 1, Riverside Dr. Athens, PA 18810 Athens, PA 18810 Lantz Car Conditioning Larry's Auto Body RD 1, Shepard Road Wildwood Road Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840 Lee's Auto Repair Little Caesar's Pizza 103 Bressler St. 315 N. Elmira St. Sayre, PA 18840 _. Sayre, PA 18840 Lola's Riverside Inn Macaffee Road Trailer Court RD 2, Sheshequin Road RD 1, Macaffee Road Athens, PA 18810 Athens, PA 18810 Mary T. Sullivan Apartments McCloe's Mobile Home Park Pennsylvania Ave. RD 2, Wolcott Hollow Road Athens, PA. 18810 Sayre, PA 18840 Mile Lane Airport Millard's Dairy RD 2, Mile Lane Road RD 1, Route 220 Sayre, PA 18840 Athens, PA 18810 Mary's General Store Monroe Muffler Brake Lockhart Street 1008 N. Elmira Street Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840 Mt. View Manor Apartments Noel Printing 917 N. Elmira Street 823 N. Elmira Street Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840
P & C Foods Pal's Sport Center 410 N. Elmira Street 418 N. Elmira Street Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840 Patton's Country Store Pelton's Garage RD 2, Front Street 256 N. Elmira Street Athens, PA 18810 Sayre, PA 18840 Penn York Aviation, Inc. Percision Satellite RD 2, Mile Lane Road RD 2, Front Street Sayre, PA 18840 Athens, PA 18810 Perfection Oil Co. Perfection Oil Sunoco RD 1, Route 199 RD 2, Route 220 Athens, PA 18810 Athens, PA 18810 Popper ' s Prudential Financial Services 1002 N. Elmira Street 843 N. Elmira Street Sayre, PA 18840 . Sayre, PA 18840 Queen Esther Estates R.C. Smith Refrigeration RD 2, Wilawana Road 899 N. Elmira Street Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840 APPENDIX B Page Four
Ray's Place Barbara Reagan Beauty Shop RD 2, Meadowlark Road 808 N. Elmira Street Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840 Redmann Pool Rite-Aid 932 Lockhart Street 1004 N. Elmira Street Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840
Road Top Park Gulf t Restaurant Rosh Farm & Mobile Station RD 1, Route 220 949 N. Elmira Street Athens, PA 18810 Sayre, PA 18840
Rosh Junk Yard Ryan's Automotive Center RD 2, Wilawana Road Center Street Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840 Rynone ' s Safety Kleen Pennsylvania Avenue RD 1, Industrial Park Road Sayre, PA 18840 _- Athens , PA 18810 Simmons-Rockwell Auto Sales T.J. Simonds & Son a 300 N. Elmira Street RD 2, Shepard Road Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840
Smith Personal Care Home Sperrazza Beauty Shop RD 2, Orcutt Creek Road RD 2, Wilawana Road Sayre, PA .18840 Sayre, PA 18840
State Farm Insurance Co. Staver Hydraulics 608 N. Elmira Street 1 Staver Lane, N. Elmira St. Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840 Sturzen' s Furniture Super X Laundries 824 N. Elmira Street N. Elmira Street Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840 sutty's Garage John Takacs B. Systems RD 2, Mile Lane Road RD Sayre, PA 18840 Athens, PA 18810
Tammy's Salon Teaoga Hills Subdivision a N. Elmira Street RD 2, Industrial Park Road Sayre, PA 18840 Athens, PA 18810
The Barge Tioga Point Inn ' RD 1, Route 199 RD 1, Route 199 Athens, PA 18810 Athens, PA 18810
United National Real Estate Valley Inn Personal Care Home 843 N. Elmira Street 424 N. Elmira STreet Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840 Valley Lawn Equipment Ben VanDusen Equipment 837 N. Elmira Street Wilawana Road Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840
V.F.W. Valley Instant Homes 932 Lockhart Street RD 1, Route 199 Sayre, PA 18840. Athens, PA 18810
Valley Stockyards Vista Drive Apartment RD 1, Route 199 122 A & B Vista Drive Athens, PA 18810 Sayre, PA 18840 APPENDIX B Page Five
Waltman Woodworks Webster & Sons 419 N. Elmira Street RD 2, Front Street Sayre, PA 18840 Athens, PA 18810 Westbrook Upholstery Barbara West Hair Salon RD 2, Front Street Herrick Avenue Athens, PA 18810 Sayre, PA 18840 White House Apartments Wildwood Court Pennsylvania Avenue RD1 Sayre, PA 18840 Sayre, PA 18840 Wilawana Community Hall RD 2, Wilawana Road Sayre, PA 18840
APPENDIX B APPENDIX C
_- ATHENS TOWNSHIP CONDENSED AUDIT REPORTS
(1982, 1984, 1986, 1988, 1990 & 1991)
c-1 ATHENS TOWNSHIP AUDIT REPORT
For the year ending December 31, 1982
Cash & Investments - January 1. 1982 General Fund $ 80,742.00 Landfill Fund 134,261.10 Round Top Fund 1,212.20 Highway Aid Fund 827.68 Revenue Sharing Fund 11,790.66 PA Ave. Sewer Fund 151.03 Total Cash & Investments $ 228,984.67 Receipts
Real Estate Taxes $ 65,368.07 Local Enabling Taxes 148,671.32 Licenses & Permits _. 2,449.00 Fines, Forfeits, etc. 17,107.07 Interest & Rents 21,570.27 Departmental Earnings 3,808.00 Grants & Gifts 154,759.59 Sale of Assets & Other 832.26 Total Receipts $ 414,565.58
Total Cash, Investments & Receipts $ 643,550.25
ExDenditures I Administ rat ion $ 20,920.78 Tax Collection 10,113.98 Municipal Buildings 14,106.73 Police Protection 94,272.94 Fire Protection 39,840.29 Planning & Zoning 452.60 Highways 155,918.65 Library 400.00 Parks & Recreation 300.00 Special Services 1.649.22 Miscellaneous * 114.405.31 Total Expenditures $ 452,380.50 Cash & Investments - December 31, 1982 General Fund s 8a,i59.47 Landfill Fund 80,566.98 Round Top Fund 1,583.25 Highway Aid 12,239.34 Revenue Sharing Fund 8,461.57 PA Ave. Sewer Fund 159.14 Total Cash & Investments $ 191,169.75
Total Cash, Investments 8 Expenditures $ 643,550.25
* Includes contributions for uniform & non-uniform retirement pensions, insurance premiums & other employee benefits.
Source: Athens Township Board of Supervisors, Annual Audit Report, 1982.
APPENDIX C n ATHENS TOWNSHIP AUDIT REPORT For the year ending December 31, 1984
Cash & Investments - January 1, 1984 General Fund $ 105,610.00 Landfill Fund 85,200.00 Round Top Fund 1,444.00 Highway Aid Fund 8,089.00 Revenue Sharing Fund 11,065.00 PA Ave. Sewer Fund ---- Total Cash & Investments $ 211,408.00 ReceiDts Real Estate Taxes $ 72,642.00 Local Enabling Taxes 177,481.00 Licenses & Permits 630.00 Fines, Forfeits, etc. _- 15,650.00 Interest & Rents 25,726.00 Departmental Earnings 4,787.00 Intergovernmental Revenues 141,784.00 Sale of Assets & Other 15,974.00 Total Receipts $ 454,674.00
Total Cash, Investments & Receipts $ 666,082.00
ExDenditures Administration/Legislative !$ 27,765.00 Tax Collection 11,613.00 Municipal Buildings 11,721.00 Police Protection 107,483.00 Fire Protection 38,376.00 Planning & Zoning 738.00 Sanitation 5,531.00 Highways 198,490.00 Library 500.00 Parks & Recreation 5,772.00 Special Services 709.00 Miscellaneous * 38,038.00 Total Expenditures $ 446,736.00
Cash & Investments - December 31, 1984 General Fund $ 96,008.00 Landfill Fund 90,307.00 Round Top Fund 5,036.00 Highway Aid 17,090.00 Revenue Sharing Fund 10,905.00 PA Ave. Sewer Fund ---- Total Cash & Investments $ 219,346.00
Total Cash, Investments & Expenditures $ 666,082.00
* Includes contributions for uniform & non-uniform retirement pensions, insurance premiums & other employee benefits.
Source: Athens Township Board of Supervisors, Annual Audit Report, 1984.
APPENDIX C ATHENS TOWNSHIP AUDIT REPORT
For the year ending December 31, 1986
Cash & Investments - Januarv 1, 1986 General Fund $ 77,425.00 Landfill Fund 94,232.00 Round Top Fund 5,282 .OO Highway Aid Fund 12,653.00 Revenue Sharing Fund 39,997 .OO PA Ave. Sewer Fund ---- Total Cash & Investments $ 229,589.00 Receipts Real Estate Taxes $ 85,628.00 Local Enabling Taxes 212,611.00 Licenses & Permits -. - 935.00 Fines, Forfeits, etc. 21,275 .OO e Interest & Rents 22,175.00 Departmental Earnings 2,561 .OO Intergovernmental Revenues 257,770.00 Sale of Assets & Other 9,695.00 Total Receipts $ 612,650.00
Total Cash,.Investrnents & Receipts $ 842,239.00
Expenditures Administration/Legislative $ 39,713.00 Tax Collection 12,935 .OO Municipal Buildings 18,179.00 Police Protection 131,120.00 Fire Protection 42,337.00 Other Public Safety 1,615.00 Planning 6i Zoning ---- Sanitation 3,082.00 Highways 205,666.00 Library 500.00 e Parks & Recreation/Culture 131,957.00 Miscellaneous * 67,048.00 Total Expenditures $ 654,152.00
Cash & Investments - December 31, 1986 General Fund $ 61,107.00 Landfill Fund 86,738 .OO Round Top Fund 1,591.00 Highway Aid 18,147 .OO Revenue Sharing Fund 20,504.00 PA Ave. Sewer Fund ---- Total Cash & Investments $ 188.087.00
Total Cash, Investments & Expenditures $ 842,239.00
* Includes contributions for uniform & non-uniform retirement pensions, insurance premiums '& other employee benefits.
Source: Athens Township Board of Supervisors, Annual Audit Report, 1986.
.. APPENDIX C ATHENS TOWNSHIP AUDIT REPORT For the pear ending December 31, 1988
Cash & Investments - Januarv 1, 1988 General Fund $ 33,644.00 Landfill Fund 89,243.00 Round Top Fund 1,022.00 Highway Aid Fund 3,184.00 Revenue Sharing Fund ---- Total Cash & Investments $ 127,093.00 I Receipts
Real Estate Taxes $ 116,241.00 Local Enabling Taxes 268,993.00 Licenses & Permits 1,485 .OO Fines, Forfeits, etc. 21,103.00 Interest & Rents 23,191.00 Departmental Earnings 4,841.00 Interoovernmental Revenues 198,321.00 Sale of Assets 6i Other 13,278.00 Total Receipts $ 647,453.00
Total Cash, Investments & Receipts $ 774,546.00
Expenditures Administration/Legislat ve $ 55,496.00 Tax Collection 16,325.00 Municipal Buildings 14,227.00 Police Protection 168,789.00 Fire Protection 41,243.00 Other Public Safety 1,600.00 Planning & Zoning ---- Sanitation 6,093.00 Highways 229,565.00 Library ---- Parks & Recreation/Culture 6,274.00 Miscellaneous * 78.549.00 Total Expenditures $ 618,161.00
Cash & Investments - December 31. 1988 General Fund $ 59,742.00 Landfill Fund 80,925.00 Round Top Fund 4,152.00 Highway Aid 11,566.00 Revenue Sharing Fund ---- Total Cash & Investments $ 156.385.00
Total Cash, Investments & Expenditures $ 774,546.00
* Includes contributions for uniform & non-uniform retirement pensions, insurance premiums & other employee benefits.
Source: Athens Township Board of Supervisors, Annual Audit Report, 1988.
APPENDIX C ATHENS TOWNSHIP AUDIT REPORT
For the year ending December 31, 1990
Cash & Investments - Januarv 1, 1990
General Fund S 83,004.00 ' Landfill Fund 77,433 00 Round Top Fund 6,514.00 Highway Aid Fund 7,895.00 Police Pension 225,108.00 Non-Unif orm Pension 24 520.00 Total Cash & Investments $ 424,474.00 Receipts
Real Estate Taxes S 142,587.00 Local Enabling Taxes 308,809.00 Licenses & Permits 1,440.00 Fines, Forfeits, etc. _. 31,515.00 Interest & Rents 54,176.00 Departmental Earnings 16,234.00 Intergovernmental Revenues 150,246.00 Sale of Assets 6i Other 40,760.00 Trans fer 5,000.00 Total Receipts $ 750.767.00 Total Cash, Investments & Receipts $ 1,175,241.00
ExDend itures Administration/Legislative $ 74,021.00 Tax Collection 20,404.00 Municipal Buildings 18,486.00 Police Protection 188,950.00 Fire Protection 45,181 .OO Other Public Safety ---- Planning & Zoning 2,485 .OO Sanitation 14; 796.00 Highways 191,879.00 Library .500.00 Parks & Recreation/Culture 13,156.00 Miscellaneous 128,111.00 Transfer 15,000.00 Total Expenditures $ 712,969.00 Cash & Investments - December 31. 1990 General Fund S 91,156.00 Landfill Fund 68,405 .OO Round Top Fund 16,314.00 Highway Aid 4,349.00 Police Pension 249,250.00 Non-Uniform Pension 32,798.00 Total Cash t Investments $ 462,272.00
Total Cash, Investments L Expenditures $ 1,175,241.00
* Includes contributions for uniform & non-uniform retirement pensions, insurance premiums & other employee benefits. Source: Athens Township Board of Supervisors, Annual Audit Report, 1990.
APPENDIX C ATHENS TOWNSHIP AUDIT REPORT
For the year ending December 31, 1991
Cash t Investments - January 1, 1991 General Fund $ 91,156.00 Landfill Fund 68,405.00 Round Top Fund 16,314.00 Highway Aid Fund 4,349.00 Total Cash & Investments $ 180,224.00 Receipts Real Estate Taxes $ 187,314.00 Local Enabling Taxes 273,555.00 Licenses & Permits 1,050.00 Fines, Forfeits, etc. 40,122.00 Interest & Rents 27,194.00 Departmental Earnings 15,353.00 Intergovernmental Revenues 287,583.00 Sale of Assets & Other 47,663.00 Total Receipts $ 879.834.00
Total Cash, Investments P Receipts $ 1,060,058.00
ExDenditures Administration/Legislative $ 78,664.00 Tax Collection 20,477.00 Municipal Buildings 21,196.00 Police Protection 232,879.00 Fire Protection 45,691.00 Other Public Safety 7,008.00 Planning & Zoning ---- Sanitation 20,842 .OO Highways 469,688.00 Library ---- Parks & Recreation/Culture 25,598.00 Miscellaneous 148,770.00 Total Expenditures $ 1,070,813.00
Cash C Investments - December 31, 1991 General Fund $ 40,967.00 Landfill Fund 77,676.00 Round Top Fund 10,254.00 Highway Aid 6,211.00 Total Cash & Investments $ 135,108.00 Other Financina Sources $ [-145,863.001
Total Cash, Investments ti Expenditures $ 1,060,058.00
* Includes contributions for uniform & non-uniform retirement pensions, insurance premiums 61 other employee benefits.
Source: Athens Township Board of Supervisors, Annual Audit Report, 1991.
APPENDIX C APPENDIX D a EDUCATION (PUBLIC &-PRIVATE X-12) AND LIBRARIES
a
D-1 APPENDIX D EDUCATION AND LIBRARIES
I. Athens Public Schools
Audrielle Lynch Elementary School K-5 Pennsylvania Avenue Athens Township Athens, PA 18810 888-7766 Enrollment: 413 Practical Capacity: 394 - 485
Main Elementary School K-5. Maple Street ..- Athens, PA 18810 888-7766 Enrollment: 320 Practical Capacity: 528 - 648
Sheshequin-Ulster Elementary School K-5 Second Street Ulster, PA 18850 358-3131 Enrollment: 250 Practical Capacity: 302 - 372
Gladys Burnham Elementary School K-5 RD 3, Box 114 Gillett, PA 16925 596-2102 Enrollment: 137 Practical Capacity: 291 - 365
Harriet Child Elementary School K-5 East Smithfield, PA 18817 596-3171 Enrollment: 188 Practical Capacity: 206 - 254
Harlan Rowe Middle School 6-8 Pennsylvania Avenue Athens Township Athens, PA 18810 888-7766 Enrollment: 476 Practical Capacity: 725 - 899
SRU (Smithfield, Ridgebury and Ulster) Middle School 6-8 East Smithfield, PA 18817 596-3 171 Enrollment: 181 Practical Capacity: 548 - 673 APPENDIX D Athens Area High School 9-12 Frederick Street Athens Township Athens, PA 18810 888-7766 Enrollment: 787 Practical Capacity: 770 - 941
Vo-Tech Regional School (Northern Tier Career Center) 11-12 North Towanda, PA 18848 265-8111 Enrollment: 250 Practical Capacity: 400
I1 Sayre Area Schools .- Austin Synder Elementary School K-6 Mohawk Street Sayre, PA 18840 888-7742 Enrollment: 580 Practical Capacity: 1250
Litchfield Elementary School K-4 Litchfield Township Litchf ield, PA 888-7198 Enrollment: 100 Practical Capacity: 295
Sayre High School 7-12 Lockhart Street Sayre, PA 18840 888-6622 Enrollment: 525 Practical Capacity: 1600
111. Area Private Schools Epiphany Roman Catholic School K-8 Stevenson Street Sayre, PA 18840 888-5802 Enrollment: 177
Barclay School Preschool - 4 Route 6 North Towanda, PA 18848 265-9620 Enrollment: 40
APPENDIX D Notre Dame High School 9-12 1400 Maple Avenue Elmira, N.Y. (607) 734-2267 Enrollment: 280
North Rome Christian School K-6 North Rome Wesleyan Church North Rome Road Ulster, PA 18850 Enrollment: 41
IV. Other Schools and Procrrams _- Area Summer School Waverly High School 1 Frederick Street Waverly, New York 14892 (607) 565-8101
Bradford County Literacy Program Sherry Spencer, Bradford County Library Route 6 West Burlington, PA 596-3474
Literacy Volunteers of the Central Southern Tier Corning, New York (607) 936-0455
BLaST INTERMEDIATE UNIT 17 23 Main Street Towanda, PA 18848 265-2892
KIDS Club, latch-key program sponsored by BRIDGE c/o First United Methodist of Sayre Lockhart at North Elmer Street Sayre, PA 18840 888-2243 Club is at two locations: Athens Methodist Church Sayre Methodist Church Main Street Sayre, PA 18840 Athens, PA 18810
APPENDIX D V. Libraries Athens Spalding Library 724 S. Main Street Athens, PA 18810 888-7117
Sayre Public Library 122 S. Elmer Avenue Sayre, PA 18840 888-2256 20,000+ volumes: 25,000+ circulation yearly
Waverly Free Library Elizabeth Square _- Waverly, New York 14892 (607) 565-9341 34,000+ volumes; 55,000+ circulation yearly
Mather Memorial Library Ulster, Pa 18850 358-3595
Bradford County Library Route 6 West Burlington, PA 596-3474 48,100 volumes: 167,872+ circulation yearly
Medical Library, Robert Packer Hospital Robert Packer Hospital Guthrie Square Sayre, PA 18840 888-6666 14,000 books & volumes for use by staff and students; general public may examine and use books in the library only.
APPENDIX D APPENDIX E
_- COLLEGES AND ADULT EDUCATION
E-1 APPENDIX E
COLLEGES AND ADULT EDUCATION
I. POST-SECONDARY SCHOOLS, PENNSYLVANIA
1. BLOOMSBURG UNIVERSITY Bloomsburg, PA 17815 (717)389-4316 selectivity rating: competitive Enrollment: 6,900 full-time undergraduates and graduates Library: 309,628 volumes; 1,599 periodical subscriptions; 1,505,716 microfilm items Profile: Bloomsburg is a medium-sized, coeducational, multi- purpose, nonsectarian .state institution. It offers 65 undergraduate degrees in arts, science, education, health a professions, and business. There is one associate degree program and 11 supervisory certificate programs. In addition, there are 9 career concentrations/special career oriented programs designed to provide a foundation for later placement in vocational settings. These re offered in conjunction with several liberal arts maj ors . The master s degree program offers 23 degrees. There are three colleges - Arts and Sciences, Business, and Professional Studies. Deurees Offered: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Master of Business Administration, Master in Education, Associate degree in health services assistants and interpreting for hearing impaired. Accreditation: MSACS; Professionally accredited by National a Council for Accreditation of Teaching Education, National League of Nursing. Distribution of Majors: Highest enrollment in business administration, elementary education and nursing.
2. COLLEGE OF HISERICORDIA Dallas, PA 18612 (717) 675-2181 Selectivity rating: competitive Enrollment: 773 full-time undergraduates; 85 graduates Profile: Misericordia is a small, Catholic, liberal arts based, coeducational college with undergraduate and graduate programs. These academic programs are in the divisions of Allied Health Professions, Business Administration. Humanities, Nursing and Professional Studies. Desrees Offered: Bachelor of Social Work, Bachelor of Science APPENDIX E in Nursing, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, Master of Science, Master of Science in Nursing.
3. JOHNSON TECENICAL INSTITUTE 3427 N. Main Street Scranton, PA 18508 (717) 342-6404 Profile: JTI is a privately owned and incorporated, coeducational commuter school offering programs of study leading to an Associate in Specialized Technology Degree. Deqrees Offered: Associate in Specialized Technology Degree in the following areas - automotive and internal combustion technology; biomedical equipment technology; building constructiontechnology; carpentry and cabinetmaking; drafting and design technology (architectural and mechanical); electronic and fluidics-technology; machine trades; welding and metal fabrication. Accreditation: National Association of Trade and Technical Schools; licensed by the State Board of Private Trade Schools; approved by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency; approved for Veterans Training; approved by the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation; approved by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania State Board of Education to award the Associate in Specialized Technology Degree,
4. KEYSTONE JUNIOR COLLEGE La Plume, PA 18440 (717) 945-5141
Enrollment: 800 full-time students Profile: Keystone is a fully accredited, independent, coeducational, 2 year institution aimed towards helping students to qualify for employment in career fields or to transfer to a 4-year college. Programs are in the following fields: allied health; art; business administration; communications; computer information systems; early childhood education; engineering; environmental science and forestry; fashion merchandising/apparel management/textile design and management; general business; general studies; hotel, restaurant, food service management; human senrices; liberal arts; science; and travel and tourism. Decrrees Offered: Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, Associate of Applied Science,. Associate of Fine Arts, and a 1 year certificate in Business. Special Proqrams: Keystone offers degree or non-degree programs for adult continuing education through summer sessions, the weekender program and the mid-week program.
APPENDIX E 5. KING'S COLLEGE Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711 (717) 826-5900 Selectivity rating: competitive Enrollment: 1,700 full-time undergraduates Library: 135,000 volumes; 736 periodical subscriptions; 1,018,000 microfilm items Profile: King's College is a Catholic, liberal arts, coeducational institution offering Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees. Desrees Offered: Bachelor of Arts: Bachelor of Science Accreditation: MSACS; Professionally by the American Medical Association (CAHEA) .
Distribution of Maiors: - .Highest enrollment are in accounting, marketing, business administration. Lowest enrollments are in philosophy, languages, and physics.
6. LYCOMING COLLEGE Williamsport, PA 17701-5192 (717) 321-4000 Selectivity rating: competitive Enrollment: 1,200 full-time undergraduates Library: 150,000 volumes; 1,000 periodical subscriptions; 900 microfilm items Profile: Lycoming is a coeducational, undergraduate liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. It offers programs in the liberal arts and science areas. Desrees Offered: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Accreditation: MSACS Distribution of Maiors: Highest enrollments are in business, mass communications, accounting. Lowest enrollments are in Near East Culture, archeology, astronomy.
7. MANSFIELD UNIVERSITY Mansf ield, PA (717) 662-4243 selectivity rating: less competitive Enrollment: 2,400 full-time undergraduates; 319 graduates Library: 196,000 volumes; 2,240 periodical subscriptions; 550,000 microfilm items; 15,000 media; 8,000 music recordings. Profile: Mansfield University, founded in 1857, is a publicly supported, coeducational, nonsectarian institution offering programs in education, liberal arts and professional fields. APPENDIX E Dearees Offered: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science in Education, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (in cooperation with Robert Packer Hospital. See #12 for further details), Bachelor of Science in Social Work. Accreditation: MSACS; National Association of Schools of Music, National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education, Council on Social Work Education, American Dietetic Association. Distribution of Majors: Highest enrollment are in education, business administration, criminal justice. Lowest enrollments are in philosophy, sociology, geography.
8. MARYWOOD COLLEGE 2300 Adams Avenue _- Scranton, PA 18509-1598 (717) 348-6234 selectivity rating: less competitive Enrollment: 1,518 full-time undergraduates; 1000 graduates Library: 179,842 volumes; 1,282 periodical subscriptions; 70,954 microfilm items Profile: Marywood is a coeducational, liberal arts Catholic college. The undergraduate school is a residence school and the Gillet School is coeducational, non-residence, under- graduate. The Graduate Schools of Arts and Sciences, and of Social Work are coeducational, non-residential.
Dearees Offered: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Social Work, Master of Arts, Master of Science, Master in of Fine Arts, Master of Public Administration, Master of Social Work. Accreditation: MSACS; Professionally by American Dietetic Association, the Council of Social Work Education, the National Association of Schools of Art and Design; the National Association of Schools of Music, the National Council of Teacher Education; and the National League of Nursing. Distribution of Majors: Highest enrollment in business accounting, elementary education, nursing. dietetics. Lowest enrollments are in religious studies, physical education, foreign language.
9. PENN STATE AT WILKES-BARRE PO Box PSU Lehman, PA 18627 (717) 675-2171
Enrollment: 710 full-time undergraduates; 270 part-time
APPENDIX E Profile: The first two years of almost every baccalaureate degree program are offered at the Wilkes-Barre Campus, one of twenty Commonwealth campuses. Approximately 60% of freshman and many transfer students begin their studies at one of these locations and complete their freshman and sophomore years there before moving to the Penn State Erie, the Behrend College; Penn State Harrisburg; or the University Park Campus. The Wilkes-Barre Campus offers two associate degree programs: Biomedical Equipment Technology and Telecommunications Technology. Deqrees Offered: Associate in Biomedical Equipment Technology, Associate in telecommunications Technology. special Proarams: Penn State Wilkes-Barre offers undergraduate courses leading towards degrees (Associate Degree programs in Business Administration; and Letters, Arts, and Sciences) and certificates (Certificate programs in Administrative Secretaries; Business Management; Health Care Management; Marketing Management; Management Information Systems; Purchasing Management) for adult continuing education. Courses are held days, evenings and weekends at a variety of locations including Canton H.S., Towanda H.S., Memorial Hospital, Ingersoll Rand, Athens, and Guthrie Health Care Center in Towanda.
10. PENN STATE AT WORTHINGTON SCRANTON CAMPUS Scranton, PA 18510
Enrollment: 920 full-time undergraduates; 385 part-time Profile: The first two years of almost every baccalaureate degree program are offered at the Worthington Scranton Campus, one of twenty commonwealth campuses. Approximately 60% of freshman and many transfer students begin their studies at one of these locations and complete their freshman and sophomore years there before moving to the Penn State Erie, the Behrend College; Perm State Harrisburg; or the University Park Campus.
11. PENN COLLEGE (formerly Pennsylvania College of Technology & Williamsport Area Community College) One College Avenue Williamsport, PA 17701 (717) 327-4761
Enrollment: 4,000 undergraduates Profile: The Pennsylvania College of Technology is a comprehensive ’ 2-year institution with diverse educational programs in traditional and advanced technologies. The college offers over 60 programs leading to associate degrees or certificates in vocational and technical fields and in the liberal arts and sciences, vocational-technical training for APPENDIX E secondary students, courses tailored to meet needs of business and industry and a broad range of avocational courses offered on and off-campus. The school recently became part of the Penn State University system. Deqrees Offered: Associate of Applied Arts offered in Advertising Art and Mass Communications with emphasis in Print Media, Electronic Media and Public Relations. Associate of Applied Science degree for technical and occupational skills; Associate of Arts degree program which parallels the first two years of a liberal arts education; Certificates in special fields of study. These programs are occupational in nature and heavily skills oriented. Special Procrrams: The school offers flexible scheduling, mini-semesters, and weekend college programs.
._ 12. ROBERT PACKER HOSPITAL Guthrie Square Sayre, PA 18840 (717) 882-4007 or 882-4013 Profile: Robert Packer Hospital Department of Health Services and Mansfield University have joined together to offer numerous nursing and medical technology programs. Penn State, in addition to Mansfield University, occasionally offers adult education classes at Patterson Education Building at Robert Packer Hospital (Guthrie Healthcare System, Sayre Campus). Dearees Offered (through Mansfield University): Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Associate in Science (Radiology), Associate in Science (Respiratory Therapy), and Clinical Laboratory Science Program participants receive certification from Robert Packer Hospital and a Bachelor Degree from their affiliated college or university.
13. UNIVERSITY OF SCRANTON Scranton, PA 18510 (717) 961-7540 selectivity rating: more competitive Enrollment: 3,500 full-time undergraduates Profile: The University of Scranton is a private, urban, coeducational, Catholic institution which offers over 60 undergraduate and graduate programs. There are five schools within the University - the College of Arts and Sciences; the School of Management; the College of Health, Education and Human Resources; Dexter Hanley College; and the Graduate School. Dearees Offered: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Business Administration, Master of Science, Master of Arts.
APPENDIX E Accreditation: MSACS; the Board of Regents of the University of the State of New York, the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education, the American Chemical Society, the American Physical Therapy Association, national League for Nursing. Distribution of Majors: Highest enrollments are in biology, accounting, marketing. Lowest are in classical languages, theology.
14. WILKES COLLEGE Wilkes-Barre, PA 18766 (717) 824-4651 Selectivity rating: less competitive Enrollment: 2,000 full-time undergraduates, 500 graduates Library: 180,000+ volumes; 1,250 periodical subscriptions; 500,000 microfilm items
_r Profile: Wilkes College is a small private coeducational, nonsectarian college of arts and sciences offering under- graduate and graduate programs. It also offers programs in professional fields including several in allied health areas. Dearees Offered: Bachelor of Arts; Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Science, a 2-year pre- engineering curriculum. Accreditation: MSACS; Professionally by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, and by the National League for Nursing. Distribution of Majors: Highest enrollments are in engineering, premed, and business/accounting. Lowest enrollments are in philosophy and languages.
I1 . POST-SECONDARY SCHOOLS, NEW YORK
I. ALFRED UNIVERSITY Alfred, NY 14802 (607) 871-2175 Selectivity rating: more competitive Enrollment: 1,883 full-time undergraduates; 417 graduates Library: 268,000 volumes; 3,277 periodical subscriptions Profile: Alfred is a coeducational, nonsectarian institution. It is comprised of the College of Liberal Arts, the College of Nursing, the College of Business and Administration, the Division of Industry and Engineering, and the Graduate School. Also the New York State College of Ceramics is located on campus. Dearees Offered: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Science. APPENDIX E Accreditation: MSACS; professionally by the Accrediting Board for Engineering and Technology, the National Association of School of Art and Design, the National League for Nursing, the American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business. Distribution of Majors: Highest enrollments are in business, administration, ceramic engineering, art and design.
2. ARNOT OGDEN SCHOOL OF NURSING Arnot-Ogden Memorial Hospital 600 Roe Avenue Elmira, NY 14905 (607) 737-4161 Profile: The School of Nursing offers courses of study leading to a nursing diploma or a bachelor's degree in nursing through Elmira College. . .. .
3. BROOME Corny COMMUNITY COLLEGE P.O. Box 1017 Binghamton, NY 13902 (607) 771-5000 Profile: BCCC is a public, comprehensive educational institu- tion providing arts and science transfer degree; occupational degrees and certificate programs in health, business, and technology; developmental learning programs; student and administrative services; continuing and community education programs. Associate degrees are organized into four categor- ies - Business and Office Technology; Technology, Engineering and Computing; Health Sciences; Liberal and General Studies. There are also certificate programs. Decrrees Offered: Associate in Science, Associate in Applied Science, Associate in Arts, Associate in Occupational Studies, and certificates.
4. CORNING COLLEGE OF THE FINGER LAKES Corning, NY 14830 (607) 962-3134 Profile: Provides a location for graduate level courses and degree programs to be offered by a variety of colleges including Alfred, SUNY, Empire State College, Cornell, and Syracuse.
5. CORElELL UNIVERSITY 410 Thurston Avenue Ithaca, NY 14850-2488 selectivity rating: most competitive Enrollment: 12,633 full-time undergraduates; 5,455 graduates Library: 5 million+ volumes; 60,000 periodical subscriptions; 4 million microfilm items. APPENDIX E Profile: Cornell is a unique blend of the public and private sector; a land-grant university and an Ivy League institution. Because Cornell is simultaneously public and private, it serves the public at large as well as individual scholars. The University is a coeducational, nonsectarian institution with highly elective curricula and commitment. The University is made of the following Colleges - Agriculture and Life Sciences; Architecture Art, and Planning; Engineering; Hotel Administration; Human Ecology; Industrial and Labor Relations. Graduate studies are offered through the Graduate School; the Law School; the Graduate School of Management: the Medical College: the Graduate School of Medical Sciences; the New York State College of Veterinary Medicine. Deurees Offered: Bachelor of Art, Bachelor of Architecture, Bachelor of Fine Arts, and Bachelor of Science.
Accreditation: MCACS -- a Distribution of Majors: Highest enrollments are in applied economics, business, and management, biological sciences and electrical engineering.
6. CORNING COMMUNITY COLLEGE Corning, NY 14830 (607) 962-9226 Profile: Corning, located on a 275-acre campus, is a two- year college for studies leading to career opportunities or for transfer to a 4-year institution. The College offers over 30 programs in areas such as: automotive, business, chemical technology, computers, criminal justice, engineering science and technology, fire technology, human services, liberal arts an sciences, medical technology, nurse education, and paralegal. Deurees Offered: Associate in Arts; Associate in Sciences; Associate in Applied Sciences; Associate in Occupational Studies, and one-year certificates. Accreditation: MSACS; degree program are registered with the New York State Education Department and approved by the state University Board of Trustees. Professionally by the National League for Nursing.
7. ELMIRA BUSINESS INSTITUTE 180 Clemens Center Parkway Elmira, NY 14901 (607) 733-7177 Profile: EBI is a small, coeducational business school offering one andtwo-year programs in business administration, secretarial sciences, data processing and general office skills.
APPENDIX E 8. ELMIRA COLLEGE Elmira, NY 14901 (607) 734-3911 Selectivity rating: less competitive Enrollment: 840 full-time undergraduates; 377 graduates Library: 300,000 volumes: 750 periodical subscriptions; 60,000 microfilm items; 15,000 media; 8,000 music recordings. Profile: Elmira College is an independent, coeducational, liberal arts college emphasizing both general and professional education in liberal arts and sciences. Dearees Offered: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Associate in Science, Master of Science in Education, a non- degree provisional teacher certificate. Accreditation: MSACS; Professionally by the National League for Nursing. _-
9. HOUGHTON COLLEGE Houghton, NY 14744 (716) 567-2211 Selectivity rating: competitive Enrollment: 1,060 full-time undergraduates Library: 162,942 volumes; 589 periodical subscriptions Profile: Houghton is an evangelical liberal arts college founded by the Wesleyan Methodist Church. Dearees offered: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Science Bachelor. Accreditation: MSACS; National Association of Schools of Music Distribution of Majors: Highest enrollment in psychology, business administration, elementary education. Lowest enrollments are in physics, philosophy, music theory.
10. ITHACA COLLEGE Ithaca, NY (607) 274-3124 Selectivity rating: more competitive Enrollment: 6,000 full-time undergraduates Profile: Ithaca College is a fully accredited, coeducational, nondenominational institution that offers a broadly diversi- fied program of professional and liberal arts studies. It offers a wide selection of curricula in the Schools of Business, Communication, Health Sciences and Human Perform- ance, Humanities and Sciences, and Music. Dearees Offered: Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Fine Arts, APPENDIX E Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Music, Master degrees in the Schools of Communication; Health Sciences and Human Performance; and Music.
11- RIDLEY LOWELL BUSINESS AND TECHNICAL INSTITUTE 116 Front Street Binghamton, NY 13905 Profile: Ridley-Lowell is a small business institute offering career programs in office assistance, secretarial, national travel careers, word processing, electronics/computer technology, administrative management/computer programming, executive secretarial, court reporting.
12. SCBUYLER-CIIEMUNG-TIOGA BOARD OF COOPERATIVE EDUCATIONAL SERVICES (BOCES) Technical Education and Career Center (TEC Center) 431 Philo Road Elmira, NY 14905 Profile: BOCES is an adult education program, founded in 1956, primarily sponsored by the above-noted School Districts and local business and industry. Programs offered include part-time practical nursing instruction; business and industry courses in shop, math, electricity, electronics and mechanics; and career counseling.
APPENDIX E APPENDIX F
e SOCIAL SERVICES
e
F-1 APPENDIX F SOCIAL SERVICES
I. Entitlement Procrrams and Social Services: American Association of Retired Persons (800) 922-7508 Alcoholics Anonymous (800) 888-7711 Area Agency on Aging (717) 265-6121 Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (Williamsport) (717) 465- 3600 .- Bradford County Board of Assistance (717) 888-0033 Bradford County Children and Youth Services (717) 265-2424 Bradford County Domestic Relations (717) 662-7228 Counseling Referral (814) 326-4601 Guidelines Referral Service (Blossburg) (800) 332-6718 Head Start Program (Athens) (717) 888-2370 Meals on Wheels (Waverly) (607) 565-2861 Red Cross Valley Chapter (Waverly) (607) 565-9310 Salvation Army Community Center (Sayre) (717) 888-2153 Social Security Administration (717) 265-2137 Towanda Area Women's Center (Towanda) (717) 265-9101 Veterans' Affairs: (717) 265-1704 Woman/Infant/Children (WIC) Program (Sayre) (717) 888-5058
11. Nurserv Schools and Dav Care: The Children's Place 416 N. Keystone Avenue (First Church of God) Sayre, PA 18840 888-9110 Fun 'n Friends 207 South Hopkins Street (St. John Lutheran Church) Sayre, PA 18840 888-2412
APPENDIX F Tom Thumb Nursery School and Day Care 369 Pennsylvania Avenue S. Waverly, PA 18840 888-2391 Athens Head Start 118 South Main Street (United Methodist Church) Athens, PA 18810 888-2370 Other Head Start RD 3, Box 114 (Gladys Burnham Elementary School) Gillette, PA 16925 596-2102
BLaST I.U. 17 Preschool (special needs children) 622 1/2 S. Main Street (Athens Presbyterian Church) I Athens, PA 18810 888-4461 Tot's Learning Center (nursery and all day care) 12 Sawyer Place e Waverly, N.Y. 14892 (607) 565-4487 Honey Tree (nursery and all day care) Douglas Drive Waverly, N.Y. 14892 (607) 565-4895 Bradford County Day Care 220 S. River Street (Main Elementary School) Athens, PA 18810 888-4134
APPENDIX F APPENDIX G
LONG-TERM HEALTH CARE
G-1 APPENDIX G
LONG-TERM HEALTH CARE
Bradford County, Pennsylvania Heritage Nursing Home - skilled (717) 888-5805 Sayre House - skilled (717) 666-2192 Towanda Skilled Nursing (717) 265-2191
Bradford County Manor - skilled & intermediate (717) 297-4111
Tiocra County, New York .- Riverview Nursing Home - skilled (607) 687-2594 Tioga Nursing Home - skilled (607) 565-2861 Tioga Health Related Facility - intermediate (607) 565-2861
Chemuns County, New York El Cor Nursing Home - skilled & intermediate (607) 739-3654 Bethany Center - skilled & intermediate (607) 796-2181 St. Joseph's Hospital - skilled (607) 733-6541 Arnot-Ogden Memorial Hospital (607) 737-4100
APPENDIX G APPENDIX H
.- LAND USE SURVEY RATING FORM AND CRITERIA
H-1 LAND USE INVENTORY SURVEY RURAL AREAS OF TOWNSHIP
Code Number (corresponds with maps (s)) Address/Location Undeveloped Rating - Woodland: - State Game Land - State Forest Land - Private -Grassland Developed Rating - Agricultural (no house visible)
cropland - Pasture - Xmas trees _. 1ivestock other- Agricultural (house visible, see below) - cropland - Xmas trees - dairy __ other livestock
- Farm House - Conv. Single Family - Rating - Mobile Home - Rating - Other Farm Outbuildings - Barn (s) Other Comments Quasi Public - Parkland - Cemetary - Other - Industrial/Commercial/Non-Agricultural Residential (Use Developed Areas Survey Form)
APPENDIX H LAND USE INVENTORY SURVEY DEVELOPED AREAS OF TOWNSHIP
Code Number (corresponds with maps(s))
BusinessName/Address/Location Residential - Conv. Single Family - Rating - Mobile Home - Rating Multi-Family - # of Units - Rating - Park.Rating - Other .- Commercial - Retail - Rating
,- Service - Rating - Restaurant - Rating - Hotel/Motel - # of Units - Rating - Other - Rating : _. Parking - Off-street - Overall Rating Industrial Type of Operation (if available) - Rating - Parking: __ Off-street -Overall Rating Quasi Public -School: Type - Rating Church - Parkland - Cemetary -Rating
Other -Rating Other Description
APPENDIX H RATINGS FOR LAND USE SURVEY
Condition of Undeveloped/Developed Land
1 Good: Land is attractive and free from scars of erosion or other signs of poor land management leading to areas with a lack of vegetation. Land is also free of trash or clutter. Agricultural land is cultivated and fences, hedge rows, or other boundaries are well defined andmaintained. Pasture is free of scars and shows no signs of poor land management. 2 Fair: Land is less attractive. Some scars from erosion or other signs of poor land management leading to areas with a lack of vegetation may be visible. Agricultural -land or pasture is overgrown and fences, hedge rows, and other boundaries are not well defined or well maintained. A small amount of trash may be evident.
3 Poor: Land is not attractive and shows major signs of poor management. Land is trash strewn and cluttered and ' may have many areas lacking vegetation due to erosion, improper grading or other abuse.
Ratinas of Conventional Sinsle Family Homes, and Farmhouses
1 Good: House is adequatelymaintained and structurally sound. The overall appearance is good. Yard is free from trash and clutter and driveway is well maintained and sufficient for visible automobiles.
2 Fair: Home and/or driveway need minor repairs and yard may have a small amount of trash or clutter. Generally home is structurally sound.
3 Deteriorating: House may appear structurally sound, but major repairs are necessary and grounds may be trash strewn and cluttered. Continuing deferred maintenance will shortly lead to a dilapidated condition. Driveway may be inadequate for visible vehicles and be poorly maintained.
4 Dilapidated: Home is structurally unsound. Building may have leaning walls, fire damage, sagging roof, porches, damaged foundation, or be generally . dilapidated. Surrounding grounds may be trash strewn and cluttered and driveway may be nonexistent or in poor condition.
APPENDIX H Ratinas for Mobile Homes
1 Good: Home is adequately maintained and structurally sound. Foundation or adequate skirting in good condition is visible. If foundation or skirting is not visible, home is otherwise in excellent condition. Yard is free from trash and clutter and driveway is well maintained and sufficient for visible automobiles.
2 Fair: Home and/or driveway need minor repairs and yard may have a small amount of trash or clutter. Home may not have foundation or skirting, but generally appears structurally sound. . - 0 3 Deteriorating: Home may appear structurally sound, but major repairs are necessary and grounds may be trash strewn and cluttered. Foundation or skirting are in poor condition or home has no foundation. Continuing deferred maintenance will shortly lead to a dilapidated condition. Driveway may be inadequate for visible vehicles and be poorly maintained.
3 Dilapidated: Home is structurally unsound. Unit may have damaged siding, sagging roof, porches, damaged foundation, or generally dilapidated appearance. Surrounding grounds may be trash strewn and cluttered and driveway may be nonexistent or in poor condition.
Ratinas for Multi-Familv Residential Units
1 Good: Building is adequately maintained and structurally sound. Yard is free from trash and clutter and landscaping, if any, is well maintained. Open space seems sufficient for number of units. 2 Fair: Building may need minor repairs, such as painting, and yard may have a small amount of trash or clutter. Building should appear structurally sound.
3 Deteriorating : Building may appear structurally sound, but major repairs are necessary and grounds may be trash strewn and cluttered. Continuing deferred maintenance may shortly lead to a dilapidated condition.
APPENDIX H 4 Dilapidated: Building is structurally unsound. Building may have leaning walls, fire damage, sagging roof, porches, damaged foundation, or be in a generally dilapidated or abandoned condition. Surrounding grounds may be trash strewn and cluttered.
Ratinas for Commercial Buildinas 1 Good: Building is adequately maintained, structurally sound and generally attractive. Signs are clear and well maintained. Although some minor repairs to the building may be needed, such as painting, the overall appearance is acceptable.
2 Fair: Building appears structurally sound, but many minor repairs are necessary and grounds may be trash strewn and cluttered. Signs are inadequate and poorly maintained or overly large for the building and parking lot and visually distracting to motorists. Continuing deferred maintenance may lead to a deteriorating or dilapidated condition.
3 Deteriorating/ dilapidated: Building is structurally unsound or rapidly deteriorating into an unsound condition. Building requires substantial repairs and may have leaning walls, fire damage, sagging roof, porches, damaged foundation, or be generally dilapidated. Surrounding grounds may be trash strewn and cluttered.
0 Ratinas for Parkins Lots for Commercial and Industrial Parkinq Facilities 1 Excellent: Parking lot has a permanent well maintained surface. Entrances and exits are controlled with curbing and the parking area itself is defined with curbing, curb stops and/or paint. The parking lot is attractively landscaped and well maintained.
2 Good: Parking lot has permanent well maintained surface. Parking spaces are defined with curbing, curb stops and/or paint. Parking lot entrances and exits are adequate and may be defined with curbing or paint.
3 Fair: Parking lot has permanentadequatelymaintained surface. Parking area is defined by curbing or sidewalk, but individual parking spaces may APPENDIX H not be delineated. Entrances and exits to the parking lot are not controlled.
4 Poor: Parking lot has poorly maintained permanent surface or dirt. Parking area and spaces are not clearly defined and entrances and exits to the parking lot are not controlled.
Ratinas for Public and Quasi Public Facilities 1 Good: Building or grounds are well maintained and generally attractive. Parking (if applicable) is adequate for visible vehicles and parking area is well maintained. 2 Fair: Building or grounds are adequately maintained, but may require someminor repairs. Grounds and parking 0 area may contain a small amount of trash or clutter. Parking (if applicable) is adequate for visible vehicles although parking area may require minor repairs.
3 Poor: ' Building or grounds are not well maintained and require major repairs or landscaping improvements. Grounds and parking area may be trash strewn and cluttered. Parking (if applicable) may not be adequate for visible vehicles and the parking area requires major repair.
APPENDIX H