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Jackson Township Officials

David J. Bracken - Chairman

Bruce A. Baker - Vice Chairman A Robert L. Stephens ckn David Hirko - Manager This project ow Recreation Commission was fi nanced, in le Joseph Baxter - Chairman part, by a grant from the d Al Slippy - Vice Chairman Darin Brown g Community Conservation Alfred George e

Partnership Program, under Al Pagano m the administration of the Tim Davis

e Karl Smith Pennsylvania Department n

John Lythgoe

of Conservation and t Regina Markovich Natural Resources, Bureau s of Recreation and Project Study Committee

Conservation. Joe Baxter Dave Bracken Delores Bracken Don Croft Tim Davis Clint Elias Alfred George Eugene Martin Will Michaels Al Pagano Frank J. Singel Al Slippy Karl D. Smith Bob Stephens

Key Person Interviewees

Rick Becker Pastor Rick Clark Diane Cooper Carlene Devlin Dave Hirko Linda Hott Jim Kielman Marty Kuhar Kathy Kupchella Al Martin Rose Meric Father Paul Robine Lynn Sanner Frank Singel John Rose

Prepared by: Pashek Associates, 619 East Ohio Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 - phone: 412-321-6362

Executive Summary ...... 1

Chapter 1: Community Background ...... 7 T ab JACKSON TOWNSHIP PROFILE ...... 9 le Location ...... 9 of Demographics ...... 9 C Parks and Recreation Opportunities ...... 9 o n DEMOGRAPHICS ...... 10 Population ...... 10 t

e Population Projections ...... 10

n Age Distribution ...... 10

Income ...... 11 t s CULTURAL RESOURCES ...... 11 Public Facilities ...... 12 Schools ...... 12 Churches ...... 12 Sewer and Water Service ...... 12 Transportation ...... 12 Natural Features ...... 13

Chapter 2: Inventory and Assessment ...... 19

ADMINISTRATION, MAINTENANCE, PROGRAMMING, AND FINANCES ...... 21 Administration ...... 21 Programming ...... 23 Finances ...... 24

RECREATION FACILITIES ...... 27 Hierarchy of Parks ...... 27 Regional Recreation Opportunities ...... 29 Other Regional Facilities ...... 32 Local Recreation Facilities ...... 35 Local Parks and Recreation Facilities in Surrounding Communities ...... 40

SPATIAL ANALYSIS ...... 47

COMPARISON OF JACKSON TOWNSHIP PARKS AND OPEN SPACE TO NRPA STANDARDS ...... 51

Chapter 3: Public Participation ...... 53

PUBLIC INPUT ...... 55 Summary of Input ...... 55 Details of the Public Input ...... 57 Chapter 4: Vision, Goals, Recommendations, and Implementation Strategies ...... 69

VISION FOR THE FUTURE ...... 71 Vision Elements ...... 71

GOALS ...... 73 Administration ...... 73 Recreational Programming ...... 73 Jackson Township Parks ...... 73 Recreation Facilities ...... 73 Trails, Greenways, and Open Space ...... 73 Strategies for Action ...... 73

ADMINISTRATION ...... 75 Planning ...... 76 Grant Sources and Funding Strategies ...... 77 Other Funding Strategies ...... 79 Risk Management Plan ...... 80 Ballfi eld and Pavilion Reservations ...... 80 Parks and Recreation Administrative Plan ...... 80 Lease with the Chickaree Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club ...... 82 Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society & National Recreation and Park Association ...... 82

RECREATIONAL PROGRAMMING ...... 83

JACKSON TOWNSHIP PARKS ...... 84

RECREATION FACILITIES ...... 85

TRAILS, GREENWAYS, AND OPEN SPACE ...... 86

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan

The Plan is organized in the following manner.

Do EXECUTIVE SUMMARY cum en CHAPTER 1: COMMUNITY BACKGROUND t This chapter gives an overview of Jackson Township’s history, government, and demographics as it relates to this plan. O r g CHAPTER 2: INVENTORY AND ASSESSMENT

a

n This portion of the document provides a detailed inventory of

i available recreation opportunities and administration as it relates

z to recreation. Analysis of these items identifi es strengths and

a defi ciencies in parks, recreation, and open space, and areas that t

i need improvement in the parks and recreation system.

o n CHAPTER 3: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Public input was a key component in the development of this Plan. This chapter describes the public participation process and summary results from each venue of participation. The input culminates in the identifi cation of vision elements and the development of a Vision for the future of parks and recreation.

CHAPTER 4: VISION, GOALS, RECOMMENDATIONS, AND IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES This chapter portrays the vision for the future of parks and recreation in Jackson Township. Goals are identifi ed goals that will help the Township to work toward accomplishing the vision. It then draws upon the vision and goals along with the inventory, assessment, and public participation to outline recommendations and implementation strategies for the future of parks, recreations, and open space.

APPENDIX:

Additional Relevant Information

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

Opportunities for fulfi lling leisure activities are integral to a quality lifestyle in any community. The purpose of this study is to provide an I analysis of Jackson Township’s current parks and recreation system, nt and to make recommendations for its future. In order to provide a ro complete view of current conditions and make recommendations d for the future, an inventory of existing recreation features was u conducted and public input was collected. c t i The planning process was based on answering the following key o questions:

n

WHERE ARE WE NOW? Answers to this question help to develop a clear understanding of existing conditions, and provides the foundation upon which the Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan is built.

WHERE DO WE WANT TO BE? Public participation is a key component of the planning process. Through public meetings; distribution of a recreation questionnaire; conducting interviews with key community leaders; and collaboration with the project study committee, as well as the consultants professional analysis of existing conditions, recreation needs and goals have been identifi ed. This information was used to develop recommendations for the entire parks and recreation system.

HOW DO WE GET THERE? With a fi rm understanding of existing resources and the community’s goals, detailed implementation strategies were developed. Responsive and realistic strategies provide the steps necessary to fulfi ll the community’s goals for the future. THE BENEFITS OF PARKS AND RECREATION

Parks and recreation play a critical role in providing a quality of life that attracts residents, businesses, and economic activity to communities. The economic benefits are quite clear, as businesses prefer communities with a high quality of life including an abundance of open space and nearby recreation.

Environmental Benefits Economic Benefits

• Clean water and air • Increase tourism • Preserve wildlife • Enhance land and • Reduce pollution property value • Protect ecosystems • Assist in business • Provide a place to enjoy retention nature’s beauty • Generate revenue • Reduce vandalism and crime BENEFITS OF RECREATION, PARKS & OPEN SPACE

Community Benefits Personal Benefits

• Reduce crime and • Reduce stress delinquency • Increase life expectancy • Connect families • Create balance between • Support youth work and play • Offer lifelines for elderly • Eliminate boredom and loneliness • Promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles • Reduce obesity

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan

Jackson Township’s Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space

Plan will be a powerful tool to help to continually build and support a

quality park and recreation system. This Plan will serve as a valuable

H resource in the following ways. ow D o A ROADMAP FOR THE FUTURE W • The Vision and recommendations presented in this document e offer a clear direction for planning of future park and recreation U initiatives. The Vision illustrates the community’s goal for a successful system. The recommendations offer detailed s implementation strategies to achieve the Vision. The wide

e

scope and short, middle, and long-term range of the strategies

T assist in realistic planning for implementation of the Plan. The

h detailed information provided will assist in setting fi nancial

i

s goals and the appropriate allocation of support.

P

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a AN INFORMATION SOURCE

n ' -~? The broad scope of this Plan resulted in the documentation and analysis of a variety of issues. The document will be a valuable resource for supporting information as the implementation strategies are prioritized and completed, new strategies are developed, and documentation of existing conditions is needed.

A PUBLIC RELATIONS TOOL Residents’ interest in the continuation and growth of a quality parks and recreation system is on going. This Plan will offer accessible and understandable information for public consumption. Additionally, several of these key components could be used by the municipality or local organizations to garner support for a proposed project.

Executive Summary

1

Recreation, parks, and open space play a critical role in providing a

quality of life that attracts residents, business, and economic activities to

communities. Acknowledging the importance of parks and recreation,

local officials pursued the development of this Comprehensive Recreation, E Parks, and Open Space Plan. The process utilized to develop the xe Plan included extensive public participation; detailed inventory and cu assessment; and the development of recommendations for the future of ti parks and recreation for Jackson Township ve S COMMUNITY BACKGROUND u

m When planning for the future of recreation, parks, and open space in a community, it is important to develop an understanding

m of the community as a whole. Information on demographics

a and community resources provides a context within which

r this Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan y was generated. A familiarity with this information ensures the development of a plan that is realistic; sensitive to current issues; and tailored to this unique community.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

The input received through the public participation process was an important asset in developing viable recommendations for the future of parks and recreation. The public input process included public meetings, close work with a study committee, key person interviews, and a recreation questionnaire. Additionally, a review was conducted of the Cambria County Trail Plan. Key parks and recreation needs that were identified through the public input are as follows:

• A Community Center • Restrooms at parks • Programming and facilities for non senior adults. • A system to administer and operate programs and maintenance; probably a paid staff person • Outdoor winter sports • Additional picnic pavilions • Hiking and biking trails • Year-round recreational programming • Swimming pool • Outdoor activities • Exercise/fitness facility

The public participation process culminated in the development of a vision for the future of parks and recreation in Jackson Township.

3 Jackson Township Parks and Recreation Vision for the Future

1. There will be a Community Center with multi-purpose room or gymnasium.

2. Year-round programming will be provided for all ages and interests.

3. A strong system to administer and operate programs and parks will be in place.

4. Township parks will be upgraded to meet the needs of Township residents.

5. There will be cooperation among agencies in the Township that provide all types of recreation and parks.

6. Jackson Township will cooperate with surrounding municipalities to serve the recreational interests of its residents.

7. A staff person will be hired to coordinate and manage parks and recreation.

8. Existing facilities will be well maintained.

9. Jackson Township will be a part of Cambria County’s extensive County-wide Trail System.

10. There will be a network of motorized and non-motorized trails throughout the Township.

11. Grant funds will be utilized for park and recreation

4 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan INVENTORY AND ASSESSMENT

The inventory of recreation facilities included Township and School District facilities, as well as privately owned and regional facilities that impact on public recreation. Facility inventories included notations of the size and current condition of each. Recreation programming was also inventoried. This information was collected to create an overview of existing parks and recreation conditions. Professional assessment of the inventories and comparisons to current trends were also completed

KEY RECCOMMENDATIONS

Drawing upon the public participation, inventory, and assessments, recommendations for the future of recreation, parks, and open space were developed. Some of the key recommendations are summarized below. Refer to Chapter 4 for additional information and detailed implementation strategies.

Coordinate a semi-annual meeting of all recreation providers to discuss programming, facilities, cooperation, and publicity issues. One over-riding concern throughout the study was that fact that many groups and organizations are providing a variety of recreational opportunities to Jackson Township residents, but there seems to be a lack of coordinated effort. Many issues for each group may be addressed by meeting regularly together to discuss: the types of programs being planned; facilities that are needed; how programs can be better publicized, and; whether or not there are opportunities for cooperation among various groups. The result will be better services for Township residents.

Cooperate with the municipalities of the Central Cambria School District to publish an annual or semi-annual regional recreation activities brochure and provide cooperative recreation programs. It was recognized that Jackson Township cannot be the sole provider of recreational activities for its residents. Currently many residents participate in activities in Ebensburg, Cambria and East Taylor Townships, and other municipalities. The logical step is to work together with other municipalities and the Central Cambria School District to provide recreational facilities and opportunities. This will likely begin with some simple measures such as development of a publicity brochure, but other opportunities for cooperation will follow.

Expansion and Improvements of Local Parks Mitchell and Leidy Parks are in need of several facility upgrades and additions. At Mitchell these include: permanent restrooms; 2-3 large pavilions (to hold 100-200 users); a walking trail; additional parking space; general lighting; additional storage; a larger playground to include equipment for ages 5- 12; general landscaping improvements; a soccer field; a small baseball field; a spray pad, and; additional picnic tables and benches.

At Leidy Park new facilities should not be added unless the park is expanded or existing facilities are replaced. Upgrades that are needed include: installation of permanent restrooms; enlargement, grading, and improving the parking lot and entrance drive; expanding and improving the playground; constructing a fence barrier between the playground and the main road; installing a paved floor in the pavilion; constructing dugouts at a new ballfield, and; installing general park lighting.

If adjacent or nearby property becomes available at either park, the Township should consider acquisition to enlarge the park.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 5 Work with the DCNR Bureau of Forestry to determine the best uses of the Chickaree Mountain property. The PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Forestry has recently acquired nearly 3,800 acres known as Chickaree Mountain. It will be added to the Gallitzin State Forest. Most of this property is located in Jackson Township and will become a tremendous recreational asset. The Jackson Township Recreation Board should work closely with DCNR to see how the property might address some of the needs identified in this Plan.

Support the Cambria County Conservation and Recreation Authority and the PA Greenways Plan in completion of the proposed trail connection between the Path of the Flood and the Ghost Town Trail. Cambria County is in the process of implementing it’s County-wide Trail Plan. Implementation of this plan will meet the need for additional trails in and around Jackson Township. Part of the Trail Plan calls for a connector trail to run from the Ghost Town Trail through Jackson Township to connect to the Mainline Trail near Staple Bend. This Plan also makes recommendations for connectors from other parks of the Township, including Mitchell Park, to the new trail link. When complete, the Cambria County Trail System will provide dozens of miles of multi-use trail throughout the County and beyond.

Renew the lease between the Township and the Chickaree Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club for the parcel of property in Mitchell Park, and provide legal access for snowmobiles to area businesses. The Snowmobile Club meets a great recreational need in the Township. Township officials should, within reason, do what is necessary to assist the Snowmobile Club in these ways.

6 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan Chapter 1: Community Background

7

JACKSON TOWNSHIP PROFILE

Location

Cambria County, Pennsylvania

Demographics

2000 Population...... 4,925 Number of Households...... 1,950 Median Age...... 42.1 Median Household Income...... $34,747 Per Capita Income...... $15,790 Percentage of Population Age 65 and Older...... 17.2 Percentage of Population Under Age 20...... 23.9 School District...... Central Cambria

422 BLACKLICK Cambria County

VINTONDALE / ',, .· CAMBRIA / . NANTY GLO

Y Y T II T N N 271 022 U / U O O C II C I A A N/ I R JACKSON A I / B D I M TOWNSHIP N / A I / C / I / / CROYLE ~ --·-t-,..~ ..L__ 403 MIDDLE TAYLOR 219 WEST TAYLOR EAST TAYLOR

Parks and Recreation Opportunities

Jackson Township Parks

Mitchell Park Leidy Lane Park Veteran’s Memorial Park

Other Recreation Facilities

Jackson Senior Center Jackson Elementary School Ghost Town Trail

9 DEMOGRAPHICS

Population

In 2000, the total population of Jackson Township was 4,925. This represents 3.2 percent of the County’s total population of 152,598. Like the County, Jackson Township lost population between 1990 and 2000, albeit at a slightly slower rate. While Cambria County’s population declined by 6.4 percent during the decade, Jackson Township’s diminished by only 5.5 percent. Pennsylvania’s population, on the other hand, had increased modestly by 3.4 percent during that period.

Population Statistics

% % 1990 2000 2004 change change Jackson Township 5,213 4,925 -5.5% 4,833 -1.9% Cambria County 163,029 152,598 -6.4% 148,496 -2.7% Pennsylvania 11,881,643 12,281,054 +3.4% 12,406,292 +1.0% Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, 1990 & 2000 Census data and 2004 estimates, www.census.gov.

Population Projections

According to estimates by the U.S. Census Bureau, population in the Township in 2004 continued to decline at a slightly slower rate than during the previous decade. This decrease in population (-1.9%) was also smaller than the County’s population decline (-2.7%) over the same four-year period.

Age Distribution

In providing recreational services to an area, one must understand the age distribution of the general population. For purposes of benchmarking and comparison, age groups are compared and contrasted to those of the County as well as the entire Commonwealth.

Like muchmt of Western Pennsylvania, Jackson Township has fewer children and young adults, and moreI older adults and seniors than both the County and the Commonwealth. While residentsres under age 35 make up 39.3 percent of the Township’s population, a larger percentage of0 County (41.3%) and State (45.3%) residents occupy the same age category. This is particularly evident among young adults aged 20 to 34 years, who make up only 15.4 percent of the Township’s population, compared to 17.4 percent of the County’s and 18.8 percent of the Commonwealth’s. Similarly, the percentages of older adults aged 35 to 54 (33.8%) and 55 to 64 (9.7%) exceed the percentages for those age groups at both the County and State levels. While Cambria County has more seniors as a percentage of its residents (19.7%) than does Jackson Township (17.2%), both exceed the State percentage (15.6%). Consequently, the median age of residents in Jackson Township (42.1) is higher than the median age for both the County (41.2) and the Commonwealth (38).

10 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan Age Distribution 2000 (%)

Age Jackson Cambria Pennsylvania Category Township County 0-9 10.6 10.8 12.6 10-19 13.3 13.1 13.9 20-34 15.4 17.4 18.8 35-54 33.8 29.2 29.8 55-64 9.7 9.6 9.2 65+ 17.2 19.7 15.6

Income

According to the 2000 U.S. Census data, the number of working adults and earnings in Jackson Township exceed those in the County as a whole. Nearly 57 percent of Township residents are in the labor force as compared to 53.8 percent in the County. Moreover, median household income in the Township in 1999 was $34,747, about 15 percent higher than the County’s median household earnings of $30,174. However, Township median household income ($34,747) and per capita income ($15,790) were well below the corresponding State figures, $40,106 and $20,880 respectively. These economic characteristics are relevant when evaluating the Township’s ability to pay for and maintain recreational facilities and programs.

Household Data 1999

Jackson Cambria Pennsylvania Township County Number of 1,950 60,568 4,777,003 households Median household $34,747 $30,179 $40,106 income Average 2.52 2.38 2.48 household size

CULTURAL RESOURCES

Cultural resources within Jackson Township are important to its recreation, parks, and open space system. The Township’s cultural resources, including transportation systems, historic sites, public facilities, and development patterns influence the character, culture, and recreational needs of its residents. For example, school, community, and historic facilities present opportunities for both passive and active recreational pursuits. Transportation corridors influence access to both local and regional facilities.

The following cultural resources are located on the Cultural Resources inventory map.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 11 Public Facilities

Jackson Township Municipal Building Jackson Township Police Department Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company

Schools

Jackson Elementary School

Jackson Township is part of the Central Cambria School District. The District serves over 15,000 residents living in Ebensburg Borough, Cambria Township, and Jackson Township. There are approximately 2,000 students in the District. Central Cambria elementary students (K-5) attend either Cambria Elementary or Jackson Elementary School. Students in grades 6-8 attend Central Cambria Middle School, while those in grades 9-12 attend Central Cambria High School. Both are located in Ebensburg.

Cambria County Christian School

Located on Pike Road in Jackson Township, Cambria County Christian School attracts students from throughout the County. The school educates students from preschool through grade twelve. Enrollment in the 2005-2006 school year was 170 students.

St. Paul’s Community Nursery School

As a ministry of St. Paul Lutheran Church, the school provides services to preschoolers.

Churches

Pike Grace Brethren Church St. John Vianney Catholic Church Singer Hill Grace Brethren Mount Olive United Methodist Jehovah Witness Kingdom Hall Laurel Mountain Bible Church St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Vinco Brethren Chickaree Union Church

Sewer and Water Service

The Township has developed sanitary sewer through the Jackson Township-East Taylor Sewer Authority and water service through the Township Water Authority. They provide access to approximately 1/3 of the Township’s residential areas. This will allow for future residential development along the Route 271 corridor.

Transportation

US Route 22 is the primary east-west route through the Township. Much of it is being converted to four lanes, making it easy to travel between Jackson Township and the City of Pittsburgh. It also provides connections to Ebensburg and Altoona to the east.

12 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan PA Route 271 is the main north-south corridor connecting to Johnstown to the south and to Route 422 and 219 to the north, making an easy connection to Interstate 80.

Natural Features

The natural characteristics of the region provide unique opportunities for both passive and active recreation, as well as for the conservation of natural resources. Land conservation can be accomplished through specific land use strategies and proper planning of park and recreation facilities, as well as undeveloped natural areas. The region’s natural resources are illustrated on the following map. Of particular interest are: forested areas; agricultural protection areas; areas with high bio-diversity, and; riparian buffers along waterways that run through the area.

The following natural resources are located on the Natural Features inventory map.

• Rivers and streams • Lakes and ponds • Wetlands • Agricultural security zones • Flood plains • Hydric soils • Steep slopes

The next two pages are maps that illustrate the region’s cultural resources and natural features.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 13

INSERT CULTURAL RESOURCES MAP

INSERT NATURAL FEATURES MAP

Chapter 2: Inventory and Assessment

19

ADMINISTRATION, MAINTENANCE,

PROGRAMMING, AND FINANCES

In A detailed understanding of the existing components of the current ven recreation, parks, and open space system is one of the keys to making t successful recommendations for the future. This chapter describes or the recent administration, financing, programming, and facilities y from which a knowledge base is developed and on which insightful a recommendations are based. n Typically, the general administration analysis reviews the current d organizational structure of parks and recreation, general operations,

planning efforts, and intergovernmental cooperation. The

A maintenance analysis summarizes current maintenance practices s such as management, staffing levels, risk management, training,

s and equipment. The personnel analysis reviews personnel systems, e

s staffing levels, expectations of current staff, and the use of volunteers.

s The financial analysis evaluates past and current financial trends and

m support. In the case of Jackson Township, many of these functions are

I

e not applicable due to the size and nature of the Township. n t This Plan’s recommendations are based on this administrative analysis. They are intended to provide a structure that will allow for appropriate management Iand development of parks and recreation in Jackson Township. Administration

LEGAL STRUCTURE

As a second class township, Pennsylvania legislation enables Jackson Township to acquire land and/or buildings for recreational purposes; employ persons to maintain or supervise the use of such facilities; regulate the use of recreational facilities, or; join with other municipalities to do any of these functions. The Board of supervisors may also create by ordinance a recreation board to “supervise, regulate, equip, and maintain township-funded recreation programs and facilities.” The recreation board has only those powers specifically delegated to it by the board of supervisors.

If a recreation board is established, the law requires:

• It shall consist of five, seven, or nine persons. • Members shall be appointed by the board of supervisors and shall serve for terms of five years. • Members serve without pay. • The members of a recreation board elect a chairman and secretary and select all other necessary officers to serve for a period of one year. • The recreation board shall submit an annual report to the board of supervisors, including an analysis of the adequacy and effectiveness of community recreation areas, facilities, and leadership.

Further, the recreation board may adopt rules and regulations for the conduct of all business within its jurisdiction and exercise powers and functions concerning parks and recreation facilities as may be delegated to it by the board of supervisors. 21 On May 31, 1972, Jackson Township Supervisors took action to create the Jackson Township Recreation Board. The Board was to consist of seven members appointed by the Supervisors. The charge was given to the Board to perform all duties and exercise all the powers conferred upon such Boards by the Commonwealth law. On August 31, 1973, the size of the Board was expanded to nine members.

PHILOSOPHY TOWARD FUNDING PARKS AND RECREATION

Over the years, the Township supervisors have supported the operation and function of the Recreation Board to carry out its function. They have provided numerous recreation sites, maintained them well, and, through the Recreation Board, have offered a series of recreation programming annually. The have continually provided for regular improvements to their parks and have utilized Township funds to match state grant funding on a number of occasions. They have willingly followed the lead of the Recreation Board in determining where funds would best be used.

INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION

In years past, there has been little cooperation with surrounding municipalities in providing parks or recreation. However, in recent months, Township Supervisors joined with the Northern Cambria School District and the municipalities that comprise it to explore ways they might share facilities and services. Parks and recreation appear to be one of the beneficiaries of this new cooperation. In 2006, all of the municipalities are looking for ways in which they can improve recreational services by working together. This may include offering joint programming, sharing facilities, developing a common publicity brochure, and meeting regularly to discuss issues, concerns, and opportunities.

Jackson Township is a sizable municipality within the district, however does not have the total population or the density to be able to support many types of recreation programs and facilities. These potential cooperative efforts could greatly benefit Jackson Township residents. This plan supports the strengthening of cooperation among these municipalities for recreational purposes.

GENERAL OPERATIONS

Township Supervisors have vested the responsibility to manage Township recreation facilities in the Recreation Board. They have also given the Board the tools necessary to accomplish these tasks. The Board manages the regular operation and maintenance of the Township’s three parks. They also provide a limited amount of recreational programming. The Township Manager’s office provides direction and support to the Recreation Board. The Township’s seven-person road crew assists with park maintenance as needed.

PARKS AND RECREATION PLANNING

There are no specified goals for parks and recreation. All activity occurs on an as needed basis. In recent months the Recreation Board and the Township Supervisors have begun to recognize the need for better planning. This Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan is a testament to that commitment to planning.

MAINTENANCE

The Recreation Board handles most maintenance in the parks. The Supervisors allot a specified amount of funding each year for the Board to use for park maintenance and programming. The Board contracts with a lawn mowing service to take care of the turf areas of the park. Some general upkeep is done by the Public Works Department. Bigger maintenance items are sometimes contracted out. The Recreation Board and volunteers provide the rest of the maintenance.

22 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan Maintenance is generally adequate. The parks are well taken care of. Although volunteers provide a tremendous amount of excellent service to the parks each year it is sometimes evident that volunteers run out of time, interest, or effort leaving some jobs in the parks unfinished. This sometimes creates a safety hazard as facilities are left in unsafe conditions when a job is not completed.

There does not seem to be a problem with funding of park maintenance. In addition to the annual allocation to the Recreation Board, if additional funding can be justified to the Township Supervisors, it is usually provided. While there is no evidence of a lack of maintenance funding in the parks, maintenance tasks and regular chores are growing to a point that it may become necessary to hire a part- time seasonal person to perform some regular maintenance chores throughout the peak season.

SAFETY AND RISK MANAGEMENT

One of the downfalls of relying on volunteers to provide the majority of maintenance in the parks is that volunteers are often not trained to attain an adequate level of safety for park users.

There is no risk management plan for the parks and no one to assure that safety is a high priority. Safety inspections are not conducted, repairs of equipment are not tracked, hazards are not recorded or reported, and there is no record keeping of repairs, maintenance, or hazards. The lack of a risk management plan results in both immediate and long term potential for safety hazards.

The safety audit of playground equipment shows numerous deficiencies in playground maintenance and addresses many safety issues. Park facilities exhibit safety hazards ranging from low level hazards to very serious ones. The playground hazards are identified in the Safety Audit, provided separately from this report. Safety hazard reparations should be dealt with immediately. Many similar safety issues are evident in other park facilities, not just play equipment.

The Township and Recreation Board should work together to develop an appropriate Risk Management Plan for the parks. Such a plan is described in Chapter 4 of this report.

Programming

Recreation programming is provided by a variety of organizations in and around Jackson Township. These organizations in Jackson Township include the Jackson Township Recreation Board, Jackson Township Senior Center, Jackson - East Taylor Little League, and Chickaree Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club. Organizations from outside the Township that offer programming for Township residents include: AYSO Soccer, Ebensburg Young Peoples Community Center, Northern Cambria County Ice Rink, and others. The following is a listing of these organizations and the services provided by each.

JACKSON TOWNSHIP ORGANIZATIONS

Jackson Township Recreation Board

The Board has held several one time programs. In the spring of 2006 they held their first ever fishing derby. As a result of this Plan, the Board expects to begin offering additional programming.

Jackson Township Senior Center

The Center provides a variety of recreational, social, and educational programs for seniors. Most programs are held at their facility. Recreational programs have included movies, crafts, exercise, line dancing, horseshoes, ceramics, knitting, walking, bingo, and many others. The Center has a fitness and exercise center that is open for use by seniors. They also provide meals three times per week with a social time that follows.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 23 Jackson-East Taylor Little League

The joint league is held in both Townships providing baseball instruction and league games for boys and girls ages 5-12.

Chickaree Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club

The Club holds snowmobile races, training, trips, and other events throughout the winter months. They also hold local trail rides, Poker Runs and “snodeos”, travel to various parts of the state for club rides, and even venture to far away destinations such as Canada, Michigan, and Yellowstone to enjoy our favorite winter pastime. In the summer they also hold social events and travel to a variety of locations for snowmobile and racing events.

Other Organizations in Jackson Township

Other organizations in the Township that provide recreational programming of various types include Chickaree Rod and Gun Club, 4-H Club, Golden Rod Sportsman’s Club, Greater Jackson Township Sportsman’s Club, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts.

ORGANIZATIONS OUTSIDE JACKSON TOWNSHIP

Young People’s Community Center, Ebensburg

The Center offers a wide variety of both indoor and outdoor recreational programming focused on youth. Programming includes sports leagues and instruction, after school programming, arts and crafts, special events, educational classes, preschool programs, teen dances, field trips, outdoor adventure, open gym time, theater, summer playgrounds, outdoor swimming, and much more. It is a well balanced program of activities available to residents of Jackson Township.

North Central Recreation Center, Ebensburg

This is primarily an ice skating facility with a single sheet of ice offering figure skating, hockey, and recreational skating. Instructional classes are available for both figure skating and hockey. There are hockey leagues for all ages with several tournaments held throughout the season. Open recreational skate time is available September through April and the facility is available to rent. The facility and its programs are available to residents of Jackson Township.

Finances

Jackson Township spent an annual average of $63,070 on parks and recreation between 2001 and 2005. The following chart shows Jackson Township’s expenditures on parks and recreation in comparison to the total general fund between 2001 and 2005. The additional charts depict a comparison of Jackson Township with six other similar communities.

24 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan During the same period, parks and recreation expenditures in Jackson Township equated an average of 6% of the annual General Fund Expenditures. They spent an average of $12.81 per person living in the Township.

JACKSON TOWNSHIP BUDGET COMPARISONS 5-year inc/ 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Average dec Total Township $844,081 $692,337 $826,640 $1,306,758 $1,358,184 $1,005,600 $514,103 General Fund Total Parks and Rec $15,674 $14,912 $59,855 $72,076 $152,833 $63,070 $137,159 Operating Budget Total Municipal $241,141 $102,640 $282,183 $629,138 $681,277 $387,276 $440,136 Capital Budget* Parks and Recreation Percent of General 2% 2% 7% 6% 11% 6% Fund Parks and Recreation Per Capita $3.18 $3.03 $12.15 $14.63 $31.03 $12.81 Expenditure *Capital expenditures for Township parks are not provided separately. I Source: Jackson Township Annual Audit and Financial Reports 2001-2005

This chart shows that Jackson Township has seen a significant increase in the amount of funds expended on parks and recreation over the five year period. Most of the increase is directly attributable to improvements to the Township parks. The annual Township audit does not show any capital improvement funds being spent in the parks because the many improvements that have been made over the past three years are included in the parks and recreation general fund budget.

There is no revenue produced through parks and recreation. There are no rental fees for facility use and no fees or charges for programming.

General Comparison

2000 # of Total Park Full-time Municipality County Population Parks Acreage Staff

Marshall Township Allegheny 5996 2 124 1 Middlesex Township Butler 6669 2 128 1 East Hanover Township York 5300 1 60 1 Slippery Rock Area Butler 6500 1 65 3 Findlay Township Allegheny 5145 5 83 1 Chippewa Township Beaver 6988 1 55 0 Jackson Township Cambria 4925 4 188 0 Average 5932 2.3 100 1 Source: PRPS 2002 Budget and Salary Survey and Individual Comp Rec Plans

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 25 Budget Comparison

2002 Operating 2002 Capital Per Capita Municipality County Budget Budget Exp for P&R Marshall Township Allegheny $129,753 $137,850 $21.64 Middlesex Township Butler $65,832 $0 $9.87 East Hanover Township York $94,600 $15,000 $17.85 Slippery Rock Area Butler $222,618 $0 $34.25 Findlay Township Allegheny $206,717 $210,000 $40.18 Chippewa Township Beaver $46,100 $0 $6.60 Jackson Township Cambria $63,070 $0 $12.81 Average $118,384 $51,836 $20.46 Source: PRPS 2002 Budget and Salary Survey and Individual Comp Rec Plans *Average annual expenditure for 2001-2005

These observations are made based on the previous charts:

Jackson Township:

• has the smallest population of any of the municipalities • has more park land than any other municipality (32% more than the next closest) • does not have a full-time staff person, while five of the other municipalities do • ranked second from the bottom in amount of expenditures for parks and recreation in 2002, however, their expenditures have increased significantly since 2002 • spent an average of $12.21 per capita on parks and recreation from 2001 to 2005 compared to the average of $20.46 in the other municipalities, however, in 2005 the Township’s per capita expenditure increased to $31.03 • increased spending on parks and recreation from $15,674 in 2001, to $152, 833 in 2005

Township officials have made a significant increase in funding to their parks and recreation over the past five years. Most of the increase has been used to fund upgrades and improvements to facilities. Based on the facility recommendations of this Plan, a similar amount of funding will be needed in each of the next several years to continue development and acquisition.

As parks are upgraded, funding will also be needed to provide adequate upkeep of facilities. In the past, it has been mostly volunteers that have provided the maintenance of facilities. Consideration should be given to adding additional park maintenance responsibilities to the Township’s public works staff to perform specific maintenance tasks at the parks. It may become necessary to hire a part-time seasonal person to assist with summer maintenance.

The public input received as part of this study also indicated an interest in having the Township provide a variety of recreational programming. Doing so will eventually require the hiring of a part- time recreation coordinator to develop and manage the programming. This Plan does not call for the development of a full-scale recreation program in the Township. Rather it recommends providing programming that is specific to Jackson Township residents and cooperating with surrounding municipalities to meet larger program needs. This will limit the amount of funding needed for program development. Additionally, it is also reasonable to charge a nominal fee for most programming to help offset some direct costs.

26 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan RECREATION FACILITIES

This section begins with an overview of Park and Open Space Classifications as defined by the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA). Also included is an inventory of parks and recreation facilities within and surrounding Jackson Township. Particular emphasis is placed on Township-owned parks. Each of these sites was visited and evaluated noting type, quantity, and condition of equipment, playing fields, and playgrounds. Factors such as site access, general condition, and conformance with ADA guidelines and CPSC safety standards were assessed. Facilities were also evaluated on the level of service provided to area residents.

Some of the Plan’s recommendations are based on this facility analysis. They provide suggestions on how to address facility deficiencies and community demands or expectations. See Chapter 4 for the recommendations and implementation strategies.

Hierarchy of Parks

The recommendations of this Study, with regard to parks, are based on the premise that in order to provide the optimal level of service to area residents, recreation providers must understand and take into consideration the different ways in which people use recreation facilities. The function or use of a park depends on its size, location, and available facilities. Parks can be organized into a “hierarchy” which defines their functions and the types of activities they should be expected to accommodate. The NRPA defines a hierarchy in Park, Recreation, Open Space, and Greenway Guidelines. The key classifications, as used in this Plan, are defined in the following table.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 27 NRPA Parks and Open Space Classifications

Clasifi cation General Description Location Criteria Site Criteria

Less than a 1/4 mile in Between 2,500 Used to address limited, isolated, or unique Mini-Park distance in residential sq. ft. and one recreational needs. setting. acre in size. 5 acres is Neighborhood remains the basic unit of the 1/4 to 1/2 mile distance considered Neighborhood park system and serves as the recreational and and uninterrupted by minimum size. ' Park social focus of the neighborhood. Focus is on non-residential roads and 5 to 10 acres is the informal and active and passive recreation. other physical barriers. optional. Depending on the circumstances, combining parks with school sites can fulfill the space Variable - Determined by location School Park requirements for other classes of parks, such depends on of school district property. as neighborhood, community, sports complex, function. and special use. As needed to Determined by the quality Serves broader purpose than neighborhood accommodate and suitability of the site. park. Focus is on meeting community-based desired uses. Community Park Usually serves two or recreational needs, as well as preserving unique Usually a more neighborhoods and landscapes and open spaces. minimum of 30 1/2 to 3 miles distance. and 50 acres. As needed to Large urban parks serve a broader purpose accommodate than community parks and are used when Determined by the desired uses. community and neighborhood parks are not quality and suitability of Usually a Large Urban Park adequate to serve the needs of the community. the site. Usually serves minimum of 50 Focus is on meeting community based the entire community. acres, with 75 or recreational needs, as well as preserving unique more acres being landscapes and open spaces. optimal. Land set aside for the preservation of significant Natural Resource Resource availability and natural resources, remnant landscapes, open Variable Areas opportunity. space, and visual/aesthetics/buffering. Effectively tie park systems together to form a Resource availability and Greenways Variable continuous park environment. opportunity. Determined by project demand. Consolidates heavily programmed athletic Usually a Strategically located Sports Complex facilities to larger and fewer sites strategically minimum of 25 community-wide facilities. located throughout the community. acres, with 40 to 80 acres being optimal. Used to address limited, isolated or unique Variable - dependent on Special Use Variable recreational needs. specific use. Parks and recreation facilities that are privately Private Party / Variable - dependent on owned yet contribute to the public park and Variable Recreational Facility specific use. recreation system.

28 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan NRPA Trail Classifications

Classification General Description Location criteria Type I: Separate/single-purpose hard-surfaced trails for Multipurpose trails located within pedestrians or bicyclists/in-line skaters. greenways, parks, and natural Type II: Multipurpose hard-surfaced trails for Park Trail areas. Focus is on recreational pedestrians and bicyclists/in-line skaters. value and harmony with the natural Type III: Nature trails for pedestrians. May be hard- environment. or soft-surfaced. Type I: Separate/single-purpose hard-surfaced trails Multipurpose trails that emphasize for pedestrians or bicyclists/in-line skaters located in safe travel for pedestrians to and from independent right-of-way (r.o.w.). Connector Trails parks and around the community. Type II: Separate/single-purpose hard-surfaced trails Focus is as much on transportation as for pedestrians or bicyclists/in-line skaters. Typically it is on recreation. located within road r.o.w. Bike Route: Designated portions of the roadway for Paved segments of roadways that serve the preferential or exclusive use of bicyclists. On-street Bikeways as a means to safely separate bicyclists Bike Lane: Shared portions of the roadway that provide from vehicular traffic. separation between motor vehicles and bicyclists, such as paved shoulders. Off road trail for all-terrain Single-purpose use trails usually located in larger parks All-terrain Bike Trail (mountain) bikes. and natural resource areas. Trails developed for traditional and Loop trails usually located in larger parks and natural Cross-country Ski Trail skate-style cross-country skiing. resource areas. Loop trails usually located in larger parks and natural resource areas. Sometimes developed as multipurpose Equestrian Trail Trails developed for horseback riding. with hiking and all-terrain biking where conflicts can be controlled.

Regional Recreation Opportunities

Regional recreation facilities are large parks or natural resource areas that service a larger population area. Regional facilities may provide large natural resource areas, historic sites, or unique features. They may also include facilities that are typical of community parks, but these are usually support facilities within a park. Regional recreation facilities often include federal, state, and county parks; state and federal forest areas; historic sites, and; private recreation facilities. Regionally significant parks serve an area reaching to at least twenty miles from its facilities.

There are a host of regional facilities within about twenty miles of Jackson Township. These include four state parks, Cambria County’s only county park, a state forest, a major motorized vehicle park, an regional ATV club, and a National Parks Service historic site. Details of each are described on the following pages.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 29 Duman Lake County Park

This is Cambria County’s only county owned recreation park. The park grounds consist of 71 acres of wooded and open space. There are 14 picnic pavilions, 6 campsites, modern restrooms, horseshoe courts, volleyball courts, a basketball court, ball field area, an exercise trail, and swing sets. The park adjoins 19-acre Duman Lake which is owned by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. The lake has a handicap fishing pier and is regularly stocked with trout and contains bass and other species.

Duman Lake County Park is operated by the Cambria County Conservation and Recreation Authority.

Rock Run Recreation Area

The Rock Run Recreation Area is designed to be a high quality recreation facility for many types of off-road vehicles (ORV). The 5,800-acre site is located in northern Cambria and southern Clearfield Counties. It is scheduled to open in October 2006. The site is owned by the Cambria County Conservation and Recreation Authority and will be operated by Rock Run, Inc., RECREATION AREA a public non-profit organization. ST. LAWRENCE, PA

When completed, the park will provide a variety of trails for snowmobiles, ATV’s, off-highway motorcycles, and off-road vehicles. It is expected to have in excess of 155 miles of trail. In addition to the trails, the park will include a welcome center, hill climb area, youth track complex, MX track, ATV track, pit area, 4X4 challenge area, campground, and many additional amenities and support facilities.

Tri-County ATV

Tri-County ATV is a private membership club offering its members the opportunity to ride miles and miles of trails on over 850 acres of prime riding land. As a private club, it is built by members for members and all revenue is generated through membership, events and fundraising. 2006 membership fee is $95 per year. Facilities include a fully enclosed clubhouse, track, mud bog, pulling sled, primitive camping, and permanently marked trails. The Club holds a limited number of public events.

The Club is located off Tower Hill Road near Heilwood in Indiana County. Additional information can be found on the Club’s website www.tricountyatv.com.

30 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan Allegheny Portage Railroad – Staple Bend Tunnel

The Allegheny Portage Railroad was the first railroad constructed over the Allegheny Mountains. This inclined plane railroad operated from1834-1854, was considered a technological wonder in its day, and played a critical role in opening the interior of the United States to trade and settlement.

Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site is located in East Taylor Township just about three miles south of the Jackson Township border. The park covers 1,249 acres. It includes the Summit Level Visitor Center, the historic Lemon House, Engine House #6 Exhibit Shelter, the Skew Arch Bridge, picnic areas, and hiking and multi-use trails. The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.

Prince Gallitzin State Park

The 6,249-acre Prince Gallitzin State Park is located in northern Cambria County. The major attractions to the park are the 1,600-acre Glendale Lake and the large campground. Boating with motors up to 20 horsepower is permitted. The Lake has nine public boat launches with three public mooring facilities as well as marina slips. There is also a boat rental facility. Fishing and recreational boating are primary uses of the lake.

A swimming area is also available with a sand beach, dressing rooms, picnic areas, and concession stand. Over 1,000 picnic tables are scattered throughout the park, as well as five picnic pavilions that are available for rent. Trails are available for horseback riding, biking, mountain biking, hiking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.

The park campground includes 437 tent and trailer sites, some of which have electrical hook-ups. Ten modern cabins are available for rent year-round. An organized group tent camping area provides space for adult and youth groups.

Yellow Creek State Park

Yellow Creek State Park is located in southeastern Indiana County. It is over 3,000 acres and includes a 720-acre lake.

The park includes three hiking trails totaling five miles. The Lake’s 800-foot beach includes a large, modern bathhouse, lifeguard/first aid building, and a snack bar in the beach area.

There are picnic tables and parking for over 4,000 people available near the beach. Three modern restrooms are provided in the picnic area. Pets are permitted in the day use area and must be controlled and attended at all times and on a leash or otherwise safely restrained. There are two smaller picnic areas. One is on the north shore near the North Boat Launch and the other is near the park office.

Five cottages are located along the lakeshore near McFeather’s Cove. Each cottage sleeps five people in single bunks and double/single bunks. The cottages have wooden floors, windows, a porch, picnic table, fire ring, and electric lights and outlets. Restrooms are nearby.

The lake has boat launching ramps at the north shore, the south shore, at the beach/day-use area, and at a small launch in Grampap’s Cove. A boat rental in the beach/day-use area offers motorboats, canoes, rowboats, paddleboats, pontoon boats, and small sailboats. Overnight mooring of boats is permitted in the park by special permit only.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 31 Most of Yellow Creek State Park is open to hunting, trapping, and the training of dogs during established seasons. Common game species are deer, pheasant, rabbit, squirrel, bear, turkey, and waterfowl.

Blue Knob State Park

The 5,298-acre Blue Knob State Park is located in the Northwest corner of Bedford County. The park is heavily forested and consists of a mixture of Allegheny Hardwood with occasional hemlock shaded valleys. There are several very scenic overlooks located within the park. In addition, the second highest point in Pennsylvania, at 3,146 feet above sea level, is located here.

The park facilities include 15 miles of foot trails, two group camping areas, a picnic area, swimming pool, and an 85-site overnight camping area. Winter activities include cross-country and downhill skiing, as well as snowmobiling.

Laurel Ridge State Park

The 13,625-acre Laurel Ridge State Park stretches along Laurel Mountain from the Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle, PA to the Conemaugh Gorge near Johnstown, PA. This large park spans Cambria, Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland Counties. The main feature of the park is the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, which features trail shelters for overnight camping.

Prince Gallitzin State Forest

Sections of Prince Gallitzin State Forest are located within Cambria County. One area of the forest is in Jackson Township. Working in cooperation with The Conservation Fund and the Richard King Mellon Foundation, the Commonwealth has assisted in the acquisition of 3,850 acres to be added to the Prince Gallitzin State Forest.

The forest provides plenty of trails for hiking, cross-country skiing, mountain biking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, and ATV riding, along with opportunities for fishing, hunting, and many other outdoor recreational pursuits.

Pennsylvania State Gamelands

All or part of seven State Gamelands are located in Cambria County. #26 – Cambria, Bedford, Blair, and Somerset Counties #42 – Cambria, Somerset, and Westmoreland Counties #79 – Cambria and Indiana Counties #108 – Cambria and Blair Counties #120 – Cambria and Clearfield Counties #158 – Cambria, Blair, and Clearfield Counties #198 – Cambria and Blair Counties

State Gamelands #79 is located within Jackson Township.

Other Regional Facilities

In addition to those regional facilities within 20 miles, several others can be found just a little further away. They include the following State Parks: Canoe Creek, Trough Creek, Warriors Path, Shawnee, Linn Run, and Keystone. There are also numerous state game lands throughout the area.

32 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan INSERT REGIONAL RECREATION AREAS MAP HERE

Local Recreation Facilities

One of the basic needs of any community is for adequate recreational facilities that are appropriately located for citizen use. Facilities are often provided by municipalities, school districts, counties, states, private businesses, and nonprofit organizations.

This section of this chapter identifies both indoor and outdoor recreation facilities noting the number, type, and condition of existing facilities. It includes a map showing the locations of each recreation facility.

The region’s parks system is very typical of rural Pennsylvania municipalities.

Many of the municipalities have their own community park that is supplemented by smaller playgrounds or parks as well as school facilities. Local schools extend the parks system by providing additional playground and sports facilities. While this Plan considers in great detail the facilities located in Jackson Township, it also recognizes that there are local recreational facilities located in surrounding municipalities that are used by Jackson Township residents; therefore, the inventory includes these facilities.

Regional parks identified earlier in this chapter complement the local system by providing a variety of facilities and activities not otherwise available. They serve a much broader area than just the individual municipalities. Area trails, such as the Ghost Town Trail, provide the beginning of a trail system for the entire region. Local residents also make use of a number of public and private recreation facilities scattered throughout the area.

The following pages provide an inventory of local recreation facilities.

Facility Condition Evaluations

All local facilities are evaluated to determine their general condition. The following is a general description of each classification.

Good: Equipment given this ranking was installed or upgraded during the last 1-3 years. The equipment shows no signs of significant disrepair and no immediately visible safety hazards.

Fair: Equipment given this ranking appears to be several years old. The equipment shows some signs of aging and may present minor safety concerns.

Poor: Equipment given this ranking is in extreme disrepair and is in need of immediate upgrading or replacement.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 35 JACKSON TOWNSHIP RECREATION FACILITIES

MITCHELL PARK

Park Size: 65 acres

Park Type: Community Park

Owned by: Jackson Township

Comments • Nice community park • Very attractive and well maintained • Limited parking • No permanent restroom facilities • No playground for 5-12 year olds • Ten acres of the park is leased to the snowmobile club for their exclusive use. • Area for potential expansion and development of the park

Recommendations • Develop a master site plan for the park to direct and control future development. • Evaluate the current lease with the snowmobile club to see if it is still beneficial to both the Club and the Township. • Make improvements to the playground based on playground safety audit. • Needs identified as part of this Plan: - Install permanent restrooms - Consider connection to the Township’s sanitary sewer system. - Two or three large pavilions - Walking trails throughout the park - Soccer field - Small baseball field - A larger playground to include equipment for users ages 5-12 - Additional picnic tables and benches throughout the park - Additional parking space - General lighting improvements - Additional storage - General landscaping improvements

36 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan Mithcell Park - 65 Acres

Enhancements and Facility No. Condition Size ADA Comments Utilities Picnic Shelter #1 1 6 picnic tables Good 25'x20' Yes Concession Stand/ 1 Electric and Propane gas Good 24'x20' Yes Storage Shed Sheltered player benches Announcer booth BP 60' Batting cage RF 250' Baseball Field #1 1 Good No Orientation North Full fi eld fencing CF 250' 2 sets of bleachers LF 250' Plastic infi eld cover Sheltered player benches Announcer booth Batting cage BP 60' Full fi eld fencing RF 200' Baseball Field #2 1 2 sets of bleachers Good No Orientation North CF 200' Plastic infi eld cover LF 200' PA system Warm-up pitching areas Adjacent storage building Orientation SE-NW Entrance gate is broken Basketball Court 1 Fully fenced Good 75'x45' No Bankboards are rusted Surface needs sealed Multi-purpose hard Regulation Orientation SE-NW surface recreation 1 Fully fenced Good No Size Fencing is rusted area See Safety Playground 1 Audit 45 parking Limited access to some spaces Parking Lot 1 Good Yes facilities from the parking 3 ADA lot spaces Race track Chickaree Leased by the Chickaree Trails Ridge Runners 1 Fair-good No Mountain Snowmobile Concession and pavilion Snowmobile Club Association Parking

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 37 LEIDY PARK

Park Size: 6.4 acres

Park Type: Neighborhood Park

Owned by: Jackson Township

Comments • Small park • Filled to capacity with facilities • Insufficient park for the number and type of facilities • No permanent public restrooms • Pretty well maintained • Some safety hazards

Recommendations • New facilities should not be added unless they are upgrading or replacing existing ones. • Upgrade and expand playground. • Install fence barrier along main road. • Install permanent restrooms. Consider connection to the Township’s sanitary sewer system. • Enlarge, grade, and improve the parking lot and entrance drive. • Construct a fence barrier between the playground and the main road. • Install a paved floor in the pavilion. • Construct dugouts at the new ballfield. • Install general park lighting. • A future possibility would be to install a water spray pad.

Leidy Lane Park - 6.4 Acres Enhancements and Facility No. Condition Size ADA Comments Utilities Gravel fl oor Stone fi replace Needs painted or stained Picnic Shelter 1 Water and electric Fair 20'x30' No Needs new roof 8 picnic tables Needs concrete fl oor Fully fenced BP 60' Player benches RF 190' Softball Field #1 1 Good No Orientation WSW Bleachers CF 200' Score board LF 190' Softball Field #2 1 Under construction Sand Volleyball Courts 2 Fully fenced Good 60'x30' No Open Playfi eld and 1 Grass Good 100'x100' No Parking See Safety Playground 1 Audit No sanitary sewage Concession Stand/ 1 Electric and water Good 12'x20' No Exposed electric wireing Storage Shed presents a safety hazard Walking Track 1 Good 3/8 mile No Two loops

38 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan VETERAN’S MEMORIAL PARK

Park Size: 3 acres (approximate)

Park Type: Special Use Park

Owned by: Jackson Township

Comments • Very nice new park • Nicely landscaped and well maintained • Adjacent to the Jackson Township Senior Center • Community events held here include the Jackson Township Heritage Festival, horseshoe tournaments, and events sponsored by the Senior Center. Recommendations • Due to the size of the park and the number of existing facilities, no additional facilities should be added to this park. • Construct additional lighting to allow for extended use of the park

Veteran's Memorial Park - 3 Acres

Enhancements and Facility No. Condition Size ADA Comments Utilities Electric Excellent condition Picnic Shelter 1 PA System Good 44’x30’ Yes Used extensively by the Game and picnic tables adjacent Senior Center 2 shuffl e board courts Asphalt Recreation 1 4 spectator/user benches Good 80’x40’ Yes Area Electricity Horseshoe Pits 2 Spectator/player benches Good Regulation Yes Nicely landscaped 6 Flag poles Veteran’s Memorial 1 Good Yes Granite memorial stone Asphalt Walking Trail 1 Good 0.2 miles Yes Nicely landscaped Senior Center See separate description

LORRAINE PARK

Park Size: 114 acres

Park Type: Open Space

Owned by: Jackson Township

Lorraine Park is currently just open space. In the past, only part of the acreage has been used for park facilities. There are no facilities remaining on the site. Jackson Township officials may consider parts of the site for uses other than recreation. In order to assure that the park is preserved for future generations, Township officials should designate a specified portion of the property to be set aside for park, open space, or recreational uses.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 39 JACKSON TOWNSHIP SENIOR CENTER

Located at 200 Adams Avenue, the Senior Center is host to a variety of programs and activities specifically designed for Township residents age 50 and older. The facility houses meeting rooms, a computer room, crafts room, community room, an exercise center, and outdoor facilities in Veteran’s Memorial Park. The facility is recently renovated and in very good condition. It is owned by Jackson Township and operated by the Jackson Township Senior Center Board of Directors.

JACKSON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Facility Size: Outdoor space is less than 6 acres Park Type: School Park Owned By: Central Cambria School District

Outdoor facilities include a playground, blacktop area with basketball standards, a walking track, and an open field inside the track. The school building has a gymnasium that is used for both school and community activities.

GHOST TOWN TRAIL

The Ghost Town Trail totals 36 miles in Cambria and Indiana Counties. Portions of the trail between Eliza Furnace and Ebensburg travel through Jackson Township. The Trail is designated by the U.S. National Park Service as a National Recreation Trail. Historical makers along the trail provide interpretive information about the Blacklick Valley’s history. Eliza Furnace, one of Pennsylvania’s best preserved iron furnaces, is located along the Trail in Indiana County just west of Jackson Township.

The trail offers hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. The trail is open year- round. There are access areas in Vintondale, Nanty Glo, and Ebensburg. This Trail is one of the early pieces of Cambria County’s planned trail system. The County Plan recommends connection of the Ghost Town Trail with the future Path of the Flood Trail via a connector trail from Nanty Glo to Staple Bend.

OTHER JACKSON TOWNSHIP RECREATION FACILITIES

Pike Brethren Church – gymnasium and playground

Cambria County Christian School – gymnasium and outdoor play areas

St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church – outdoor play area

Local Parks and Recreation Facilities in Surrounding Communities

CENTRAL CAMBRIA SCHOOL DISTRICT

Central Cambria Senior High School Location: Cambria Township Size: 97 acres Facilities: Gymnasium; auditorium; swimming pool; weight lifting room; tennis courts; track; football field; baseball field

40 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan Central Cambria Middle School Location: Ebensburg Size: 10.2 acres Facilities: Gymnasium; athletic field

Cambria Elementary School Location: Cambria Township Size: 19.1 acres Facilities: Gymnasium/auditorium; soccer fields; playground

Central Cambria Middle School Location: Jackson Township Size: 10 acres Facilities: Multi-purpose room; outdoor basketball hoops; walking track; playground; recreation field

CAMBRIA TOWNSHIP

Revloc Ball Park Location: Cambria Township Size: 23 acres Facilities: Baseball/softball fields; picnic areas; picnic pavilions; walking trail; volleyball court; bocce court; playground; horseshoe pits.

Colver Recreation Park Location: Cambria Township (Village of Colver) Size: 21 acres Facilities: Baseball fields; softball fields; picnic area; trails;

Revloc Circle Playground Location: Cambria Township (Village of Revloc) Size: 2.8 acres Facilities: Play equipment and area

Clover Playground Location: Cambria Township (Village of Colver) Size: 2.4 acres Facilities: Tennis court; basketball court; play area; horseshoe pits

NANTY GLO SPORTS FIELDS Location: Nanty Glo Size: 10.5 Acres Facilities: Little League Baseball Field; Senior League Baseball Field; Softball Field; Concession Stand.

NANTY GLO COMMUNITY PARK Location: Nanty Glo Size: 109 Acres Facilities: Swimming Pool with Bathhouse; Picnic Shelter; Picnic Area; Softball Field; Volleyball Court; Playground.

BLACKLICK VALLEY JR-SR HIGH SCHOOL Location: Nanty Glo Size: 8.8 Acres Facilities: Indoor Gymnasium; Track; Multi-purpose Field.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 41 BLACKLICK VALLEY ELEMENTARY CENTER Location: Nanty Glo Size: 3.5 Acres Facilities: Multi-purpose Room; Two Outdoor Basketball Courts

AMD AND ART PARK Location: Vintondale Size: Unknown Description: The park’s website describes the park as follows:

Abandoned mine drainage (AMD) is the most devastating and widespread environmental problem, as well as a significant economic and social constraint. Seeping or surging from abandoned coal mines, AMD is the metals-laden water, often acidic, that coats stream beds with orange sediment. Often desolating entire watersheds, the rust colored streams are the emblematic consequence of a proud past filled with hard work and dedication, as well as a painful reminder of the poverty and economic abandonment that currently exists.

AMD&ART Park worked to destabilize the typical negative expectations of this region with a large-scale, artful public place that directly addresses the problems of AMD and more. Since 1994, we have been creating a model of renewal that brings the perspective of history to mix with the discipline of science, the healing accessibility and delight of innovative design, and the energy of community engagement. The AMD&ART Park is now managed by the Borough of Vintondale and Founder/Director Dr. T. Allan Comp. They are exploring other opportunities for integrating the Arts and the Sciences in environmental remediation. Additional information about the park can be found at www.amdandart. org/amdandartinc.html.

VINTONDALE COMMUNITY PARK Location: Vintondale Size: 2.4 Acres Facilities: Baseball Field; Picnic Shelter; Picnic Area

ELIZA FURNACE Location: Vintondale Size: Unknown Facilities: Preserved (1846-1849)Hot Blast Iron Furnace, listed on the National Historic Register; Trailhead for the Ghost Town Trail; Public Restrooms; Parking

EBENSBURG RECREATIONAL FACILITIES As the largest borough in northern Cambria County, Ebensburg has a variety of recreational facilities available. Jackson Township residents frequently travel the few miles to Ebensburg to utilize these facilities.

Young People’s Community Center Located at 300 Prave Street, this state-of-the-art facility houses an administrative office; two multi- purpose rooms; a homework or study area complete with internet and network capability; an activity room complete with ping-pong, pool and foosball tables; men’s and women’s locker rooms; a full-size gymnasium, and; an indoor batting cage. A variety of programs are offered by the Center. They include open-gym sessions, various leagues and tournaments, and diverse arts and theatre classes. The facility is viewed as a safe haven of activity for today’s youth. For more information about specific programs and services offered at the Young Peoples Community Center, call (814) 472-4277.

Computer/Education Center The Ebensburg Borough Department of Recreation and the Young People’s Community Center offers a

42 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan computer center complete with four personal computers. The center is open for drop-in use when not reserved by a group and or class. It is located in the Young People’s Community Center.

The Batter’s Box The Batter’s Box is Ebensburg’s only indoor batting cage facility. The tunnel (15’ wide and 70’ long), provides athletes with the ability to train year-round with professional pitching machines. Batting cages are rented by half and full-hour time blocks.

Ebensburg Community Swimming Pool Located at 151 Swimming Pool Road, the Ebensburg Swimming Pool is a popular attraction for all residents of Ebensburg and Cambria Township. The facility includes a 3 to 7 feet depth pool, a men’s and women’s bathhouse, men’s and women’s restrooms (renovated in 2003), and a concession stand. The area also includes a basketball court, volleyball courts, walking trails, and pavilions.

Opening Date - Memorial Day weekend

Hours of Operation - Monday thru Friday 12:30 PM-6:00 PM Saturday and Sunday 1:00 PM-5:00 PM

Daily Admissions - Adult/Student (4 & Up) $3.00 Child (3 & Under) $1.50

Season Pass Fees - Family Pass $100.00 Adult $65.00 Student/Child/Senior $55.00

Lake Roweena Lake Rowena is owned by Ebensburg Borough. The Lake is stocked with trout by the PA Fish & Boat Commission. Boating is allowed with electric motors only. The facility also offers horseshoe pits, a volleyball court, a baseball field, and pavilions.

Memorial Field Outdoor Sports Complex Memorial Field, located on the corner of West Ogle and South Marion, was renovated in 2001 & 2002. On October 12, 2002 it was re-dedicated in honor of area veterans. The facility includes two regulation Little League fields, a softball field (all including dugouts), a soccer field, three outdoor basketball courts, and a playground.

North Central Recreation Center North Central Recreation Center is a 28,800 sq. ft. ice skating and recreation facility with many amenities. The center opened in 2004. It is located near the intersection of Rt. 219 and Rt. 422 in Ebensburg. Facilities include a full-size ice rink, lobby area, pro-shop, meeting room, locker facilities, and a concession stand. During the fall through spring, the center focuses on ice skating, and during the summer months is open for wedding receptions, trade shows, and community events.

WEST TAYLOR, MIDDLE TAYLOR, EAST TAYLOR, CROYLE, CAMBRIA, AND BLACKLICK TOWNSHIPS

These townships all provide recreational facilities primarily for residents of their respective municipalities. Facilities include ballfields, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Residents of Jackson Township that live near these facilities may make use of them as well.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 43

INSERT RECREATION FACILITIES MAP

SPATIAL ANALYSIS

Following the inventory of recreation facilities within the area, a Spatial Analysis was conducted. This Analysis brings together the conceptual information described in the Hierarchy of Parks with the specific information on existing recreation facilities. The Spatial Analysis gives an assessment of how current parks meet the recreational needs of area residents. The following factors were considered during the analysis.

• Location of all municipal-owned recreation facilities • Location of all School District recreation facilities • The service areas of the above facilities, determined by park type • Comparison of existing facilities with the National Recreation and Park Association’s standards • Transportation systems and physical barriers, which may impede access to parks

Five facilities were utilized in the Spatial Analysis. They are Mitchell Park, Leidy Lane Park, Veteran’s Memorial Park, Lorraine Park, and Jackson Elementary School. The culture of the Township is such that most residents consider these Township parks as “their” parks. Physical barriers such as roads and topography do not play a significant role in keeping residents from utilizing the Township parks.

Mitchell Park is classified as a community park because of its size and features. Public input seemed to support that this park is well used by many residents of the Township and services all areas. Although typical standards suggest that a community park services up to about a three-mile radius from the park, it is evident that Mitchell Park services a larger area that encompasses the entire Township. The Study Committee and the Consultant agreed it would be appropriate to use a six-mile radius service area for Mitchell Park.

It was also apparent from public input and Consultant analysis that many residents also travel to both Veteran’s and Leidy Parks to use their respective facilities. Community-wide special events are held at Veteran’s Memorial Park; and Leidy Lane Park serves as the focal point for past and future softball leagues. Based on facilities at each of the parks, Leidy Lane is classified as a neighborhood park and Veteran’s Memorial Park is classified as a special use facility. Each provides greater services to residents who live within about one mile of them.

Jackson Elementary School serves as a school park that, outside of school hours, attracts users from a relatively small geographic region. It is, therefore, not relevant to the Spatial Analysis. Lorraine Park, located in the north-central part of the Township, currently has no facilities. It is, therefore, not included in the Spatial Analysis. This Plan recommends that parts of Lorraine Park be preserved and designated for future park and open space needs.

The spatial analysis map on the next page shows that by using the six-mile and one-mile service radii for existing parks, all areas of the region are adequately served.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 47

INSERT SPATIAL ANALYSIS MAP

COMPARISON OF JACKSON TOWNSHIP PARKS AND OPEN SPACE TO NRPA STANDARDS

Determining the appropriate acreage, type, and number of recreation facilities for a community is a function of analyzing a variety of data. There are many factors unique to Jackson Township that the Consultant considered: extensive natural resources, existing land use, existing parks and their current uses, recreation trends in the region, the role of the Township, and the input received through the public participation process.

Prior to 1995, the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) provided guidelines for determining the number, type, and acreage of facilities a typical community should have to meet residents’ recreation needs. These guidelines identified a recommended number of certain facilities or park types per a given population. In 1995, the NRPA published Park, Recreation, Open Space, and Greenway Guidelines, which recommends a more sophisticated means of determining the number of facilities needed for individual communities by determining an appropriate level of service through analyses and public input.

This Plan combines both methods in identifying the number and types of facilities needed for Jackson Township. Charts depict the general number of facilities needed for the size of the community to serve as a starting point. From there, the level of service method is used to analyze and project needs for certain facilities in the region.

As suggested in the NRPA’s publication, crucial to this process is the public participation component of this study. The recreation needs of residents are important in customizing national standards to fit their community. The Consultant utilized NRPA’s guidelines to begin an evaluation of and make recommendations for the region’s recreation, park, and open space system.

According to the comparison to NRPA Standards, Jackson Township has sufficient or excess basketball courts, volleyball courts, baseball fields, softball fields, and picnic shelters. However, they are deficient in tennis courts (2), soccer fields (2), and football fields (1). Public input from this Study indicates somewhat different demands than the NRPA Standards. It suggests that there is a need for one additional baseball field and basketball court, one or two picnic pavilions, and one or two soccer fields. There was also interest shown in an outdoor swimming pool. It further indicates that there is no need for additional tennis courts or football fields.

Based on balancing the public input and NRPA Guidelines with the consultant’s analysis, this Plan recommends the addition of a basketball court at Leidy Lane Park, along with a smaller size baseball field, two or three picnic pavilions, and a soccer field at Mitchell Park. Based on the Township’s population and the overall costs of construction and operation, a swimming pool is not recommended. Swimming pools are available for use by Jackson Township residents in Nanty Glo and Ebensburg. As an alternative, the Township may consider a separate splash pad in one of the parks.

In considering park land, the standards would suggest that the Township has sufficient land available in the Community Park classification but is slightly deficient in neighborhood parks. The consultant’s analysis concurs with this and recommends no acquisition of property for community parks but recommends acquisition of a small parcel of property adjacent to Leidy Lane Park.

In planning for the long-term the Study finds that the Township should protect a portion of the Lorraine property to be used for future park and open space opportunities. The community seems to be very interested in setting aside additional property for the future as it becomes available. The Plan therefore recommends that the Township should consider acquisition of additional park and/or open space land as it becomes available. At the time of consideration, public input should be gathered to assure the community support still exists.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 51 Facility Comparisons to NRPA Standards - Jackson Township - Population 4925 2006 1 facility per 2006 Existing surplus X people need (deficit) Basketball 5,000 1 1 - Courts Volleyball 5,000 2 1 1 Courts Baseball Fields 2,500 2 2 0 Softball Fields* 2,500 2 2 - Soccer Fields* 2,500 0 2 (2) Swimming Pools 20,000 0 0 (0) Picnic Shelters 2,000 3 3 - Football 5,000 0 1 (1) *adjusted to reflect current trends

Park Land Acreage Comparison to NRPA Standards - Jackson Township 2006 2006 Existing Park Type Acres/1000 needed Surplus Acres acres (Deficit) Community 86539 Park 26 Neighborhood 2 9 9.85 (1) Parks

52 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan Chapter 3: Public Participation

53

PUBLIC INPUT

Public Input was a key component to the development of the Comprehensive P Recreation, Park, and Open Space Plan. Four venues were used to collect ub input in Jackson Township. A Study Committee was used throughout the lic process to represent the community in meetings with the Consultant, P two public meetings were held, a recreation questionnaire was a distributed to a random sample of Jackson Township residents, and r fifteen key person interviews were conducted. This chapter describes t the public participation process and results for each. i c i Summary of Input

p

a Below is a summary of key issues identified by each of the venues

t of public input used throughout this Plan. Full listings from each

i venue can be found following the summary. o

n STUDY COMMITTEE

In terms of community recreation issues, the Study Committee identified the following:

• A Community Building is needed. It may include a youth center, permanent Boy and Girl Scout areas, a community room, and space for recreation programs. • Snowmobile connections need to be made from the Chickaree Ridge Runners Clubhouse at Mitchell Park to access local stores, gas stations, and restaurants via local roads. • The Township should assure maintenance of existing facilities and programs. • Camping locations and facilities for weekend events held in the Township are needed. • Local groups should meet together occasionally to discuss issues and ways to work together. • Permanent restrooms are needed at all parks. • A large pavilion should be constructed at Mitchell Park. • A fitness center is needed. • Soccer fields are needed. • There are plenty of opportunities to build new trails throughout the Township.

PUBLIC MEETING

The Public Meeting identified the following needs for parks and recreation.

• A community center is needed for use by all residents and to house local groups such as Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. • The Township should consider acquisition and/or development of other properties available in the Township, i.e. Lorraine Park, the reclaimed rock dump, Chickaree Mountain property. • There is a need for motorized recreational vehicle trails. Also the need to provide legal connections to food and fuel sources for riders.

55 • Consideration should be given to development of Lorraine Park. • Additional picnic pavilions are needed. • Restrooms are needed in the parks. • There are a lot of possibilities for development of a trail system: o The waterline right-of-way o Former Southern Cambria Streetcar Line o Connections to Ghost Town Trail • A place is needed for outdoor winter sports. • There is a need to diversify sports fields to provide for sports other than baseball and softball. • The community needs an indoor or outdoor swimming pool. • Local campgrounds are needed.

KEY PERSON INTERVIEWS

Based on the fifteen (15) Key Person Interviews conducted by Pashek Associates the following observations were made.

• Mitchell Park and the Township’s ballfields are the cornerstone of the Township’s parks system. • The parks lack public restroom facilities. • There are insufficient picnic pavilions. • There is a need for a community center. • There is a need for a regional swimming pool. • There is a need for walking trails and motorized recreational vehicle trails. • There is a deficiency in recreation programming for youth who don’t play baseball and for adults who are not seniors. • Strong support was indicated for cooperation with other municipalities. • The Township should not plan more facilities than it can build and maintain.

CITIZEN QUESTIONNAIRE

The following observations are made regarding the responses to the questionnaire. The rate of return indicates a good interest in the Township’s parks and recreation.

• 41% of the respondents indicated that members of their household participate in organized sports. • Youth and young adults were identifi ed as the age groups that most needed additional recreation activities. • Top activities requested – exercise and fi tness programs; swimming; music and concerts; nature activities; bus trips; youth and adult sports; summer day camps. • The most used facilities in the Township were identifi ed as 1) playgrounds at Leidy Lane and Mitchell Parks, 2) Jackson Elementary School Playground, 3)Mitchell baseball fi elds, and 4) the Senior Center. • Top facilities requested – indoor swimming pool; permanent restrooms at parks; exercise/fi tness facility; hiking and biking trails; community center. • 86% of the respondents said parks are important to them and 73% said they are satisfi ed with the current maintenance of local parks. • When asked which projects should receive priority funding, development of existing parks ranked fi rst, followed closely by trails.

56 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan VISION COMPONENTS

Utilizing the results from each of the public input venues, as well as those from the first Study Committee Meeting, the Committee identified components that seemed to be expressed across more than one venue. These components will assist in development of a vision for parks and recreation in Jackson Township. The components identified are:

• Community Center • Restrooms at parks • Age gap in programming and facilities for non senior adults • A system to administer and operate programs and maintenance; probably a paid staff person • Outdoor winter sports • Picnic pavilions • Hiking and biking trails • Year-round recreational programming • Swimming pool • Outdoor activities • Exercise/fi tness facility

Details of the Public Input

The details of each public input venue provide a more in-depth understanding of the overall response from the community.

STUDY COMMITTEE MEETINGS

From the beginning of the planning process to the final recommendations, the fourteen-member study committee met seven (7) times to represent the community in the planning process. The Study Committee played an important role in the development of a successful Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan.

The Committee began by identifying twenty-seven issues they believed to be important to the recreational pursuits of the Township. The Committee prioritized these issues through a numeric ranking. The following table lists all of the issues in order of their priority ranking.

Total Rank Issue Points 1 Develop a youth center – a place for kids to go 35 2 Create snowmobile connections from the club house to Rager Mountain 21

3 Boy Scouts need a place of their own for meeting and storage of equipment 18 17 4 Consider and plan for all populations and their ages. Consider population growth

5 Take care of what currently exists 15 6 Need camping locations and facilities for weekend events held in the Township 13 Gather a complete inventory of resources to know what is available to meet the 7 9 needs

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 57 Create legal snowmobile access on Township roads to allow access to stores, gas 8 8 stations, and restaurants 9 Local groups should meet occasionally to discuss issues and ways to work together 8 10 Construct a large pavilion in Mitchell Park near the basketball court 6 11 The Township needs a couple soccer fields 6 12 A fitness center is needed 5 13 Construct permanent restrooms at all parks 5 14 Create a trail along the new water line. Consider other utility right-of-ways as well 5 15 One field at Mitchell Park needs to be lighted 5

16 The elementary school needs trails, a grassy play area, and soft surface play areas 4

17 Use Lorraine Park for camping. Consider best uses of the Park 4

18 The shooting clubs should be involved in this planning process 3

19 Develop ways to deter vandalism 2 20 Longer trails are needed for running and other activities. 10 miles plus. 2 21 Mitchell Field drainage needs improved 2

22 Parking needs to be adequate at all facilities and events 2

23 Consider acquisition of property behind Leidy Park 0

24 Consider the legal and liability aspects of implementation of this Plan 0 25 Develop legal, legitimate places to skate and bike 0 Lorraine Park ballfield needs improved. It is located in the north part of the 26 0 Township 27 Watch for bullies at parks and programs 0

PUBLIC MEETINGS

Two public meetings were held during the Study process. The first was held on October 19, 2005 to gather information from the general public regarding recreation, parks, and open space in the area. Twenty-three persons attended the meeting.

The Nominal Group Technique was used to gather input. The technique worked as follows.

• Every person in attendance was asked to write down their comments on a card. Each person was asked to share one of his or her issues at a time while each was recorded on a board in the front of the room. After everyone had the chance to share one issue, each person was asked again and again until every person had the opportunity to express all of their issues and have them recorded. The group identified 39 issues. • Similar issues were then combined on the chart under a single number for a final total of 30 issues.

58 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan • Finally, each person was given five stickers that were numbered 1 through 5. They were asked to prioritize the issues listed by placing the sticker with the number 5 on their highest priority, 4 on the next highest, etc. • After the prioritizing was completed, the points for each issue were totaled giving every issue a numeric ranking. The ranking of the issues, with their respective point values, is included below.

Total Rank Issue Points The community needs a community/recreation center for all residents and groups to 1 34 use (Boy and Girl Scouts, etc.) 2 Provide legal motorized vehicle trails 26 Consider acquisition and development of the old, reclaimed rock dump for 3 24 recreational purposes or other Township uses 4 Campgrounds are needed 21 5 Develop Lorraine Park into a usable park. Utilities are already available there. 20 6 Provide areas with pavilions with restrooms, electric, etc., to rent 15 7 Diversify ballfields to allow other sports such as football and soccer 14 8 Support freshwater streams for trout 14 9 The community needs an indoor or outdoor swimming pool 13 10 Expand recreational programming to become year-round 11 Consider the waterline right-of-way for trail use. It is the former Southern Cambria 11 Streetcar Line. Possible trail connection to Ghost Town Trail, Staple Bend Tunnel, 11 and more. And other regional trails. 12 Develop a shooting range 10 13 Need places for outdoor, winter sports 10 14 Protection of property owners’ rights adjacent to park properties should be a priority 9 The 4,000 acre Chickaree Mountain property needs to be back in the Township’s 15 8 hands to use for recreational purposes 16 There needs to be recreation for young people 7 17 Enlarge one of the baseball fields in Mitchell Park to accommodate AAA baseball 7 18 Provide legal road access to food and fuel stores for snowmobiles and ATVs 5 19 Permanent restrooms are needed in all parks 5 20 Expand parking at all parks 4 21 Develop a backpacking trail 3 22 Need bowling alleys 2 Bring all recreation providers together twice a year to discuss plans, needs, and 23 2 programs 24 Need lighting at one baseball field at Mitchell Park 1 Consider smaller areas of population concentrations/neighborhoods for some 25 1 recreational development 26 Need an indoor archery range 0 27 Need a skating facility – inline, roller, ice 0

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 59 28 Need a court area in one of the parks – basketball, tennis, volleyball, badminton 0 Should be cooperating with surrounding municipalities to prevent duplication of 29 0 facilities and services 30 Consider development of natural areas with trails and interpretative features 0

The second public meeting was held on June 22, 2006. Pashek Associates presented the Vision and Goals of the Plan and reviewed the major issues, findings, and recommendations.

KEY PERSON INTERVIEWS

Pashek Associates conducted fifteen interviews with leaders of local sports organizations, municipal staff, teachers, pastors, local business owners, parents, homeowners, and staff from the Senior Center. Each person interviewed was asked a series of questions about the existing state of parks and recreation in the area and the facilities that need to be built or improved to meet the community’s current and future needs. They were also questioned about whether they favor a regional approach to parks and recreation planning and how such cooperation should occur.

Fifteen respondents said they live in the Township and eight stated they work there as well.

When asked what comes to mind when they think about parks and recreation in the area, the most common response was Mitchell Park and ballfields (12). Other places mentioned were the Senior Center (4), playgrounds (4), and the walking trail at Veteran’s Park (2).

When questioned about strengths, respondents most frequently named Mitchell Park and ballfields (7). They noted the excellent quality of the facilities as well as its potential for expansion. Other strengths cited by more than one respondent include Leidy Lane Park (2), the Senior Center (2), all Township parks (2), and organized children’s sports (3). One respondent spoke about the popularity of the local snowmobile club which draws families and provides recreation for local youth. At a recent ATV race sponsored by the club, over 600 people attended.

The weakness raised most frequently (7) was that the Township does not have enough variety in children’s sports. There is nothing but baseball. Other responses included a lack of public restroom facilities at local parks (3) and insufficient picnic facilities (2). Three (3) respondents felt there are no particular weaknesses.

In terms of facilities, many respondents (7) indicated that the region’s greatest need is a community recreation center where people can recreate indoors, particularly during the long winter months. Several respondents (6) suggested that the region needs a swimming pool. Others called for picnic shelters and pavilions (4), more recreational trails (4), public restrooms at local parks, particularly Mitchell fields (3), a skateboard park for teens (3), and motorized vehicle trails (2). One person noted that the Bethlehem Steel property which used to allow access for recreation would be an excellent place for new walking or motorized vehicle trails. There was no clear consensus on the types of programming the Township needs. Responses that were given more than once were: additional youth sports leagues like soccer and basketball (2); summer programs (2); after school programs other than sports (2), and; adult programs (2). Only two (2) respondents felt the region did not have additional parks and recreation needs. They stated that all types of recreation are available within or nearby Jackson Township.

When asked what segment of the population in Jackson Township is least served by recreational programs and facilities, respondents most frequently said non-Senior adults (6). They noted that while there are activities for children and Senior citizens, there is a conspicuous gap for everyone falling in between. Some noted that this includes a lack of facilities for families, like picnic pavilions or ATV trails. However, others (3) felt that teens/young adults have very few recreational options once they outgrow Little League baseball. Others noted that kids who don’t play baseball are not well served.

60 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan Two thirds of the respondents (10) voiced support for cooperation with neighboring Townships in providing for parks and recreation. Many felt that working with others makes sense and can only benefit all municipalities involved. Some suggested sharing ideas and programming, while others said sharing grants and maintenance responsibilities would be appropriate. A few respondents said the best partners would be East Taylor and Nanty Glo. Two (2) respondents were uncertain about cooperation and three (3) indicated that they did not favor it. One noted that the Township is growing and that shared facilities could become overcrowded and stressed. Another recalled that the Township previously “lost out” when it cooperated in developing a regional community center and the center was built in a neighboring municipality. The third felt that with too many involved, it is hard to get things accomplished.

Other issues that respondents raised for consideration were:

• The Township should not plan for more facilities than it can afford to build and maintain. • Don’t duplicate facilities that exist in neighboring municipalities. • The Township should tap into the volunteer resources at local churches. • Patrol parks at night to prevent vandalism. • There is a need to keep young people from leaving the Township. • Private property issues will be an obstacle when planning for new trails in the Township.

CITIZEN QUESTIONNAIRE

In September 2005, eight hundred forty questionnaires were sent via first class mail to a random selection of Jackson Township households. Sixty-five questionnaires were returned as undeliverable. The net result was that 775 questionnaires were delivered to residences. That totals 40% of the households in the Township. One hundred fifty nine were completed and returned for an excellent response rate of 21%.

The following charts, graphs, tallies, and analyses show the results of each question.

Question 1

41% of the respondents indicated that members of their household participate in organized sports.

4% 41%

55% I. yes • no D no response

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 61 Question 2

There is no significant response to why persons do not take advantage of recreational activities. The highest response was that people are not aware of what programming is available. A better system of publicity is recommended to improve in this area.

programs I'm interested 60 in are not offered

location of activity 35

time of day offered 31

day of week offered 21

cost 23

Question 3

Recreational activities appear to be needed for all age groups with the highest responses being for those ages 10 to19 and ages 35 to 64.

0-9 yrs 67

10-14 yrs 88

15-19 yrs 90

20-34 yrs 60

35-64 yrs 83

65+ yrs 64

62 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan Question 4

The top activities requested were exercise and fitness programs, swimming, music and concerts, nature activities, bus trips, youth and adult sports, and summer day camps.

exercise and fitness 78

swimming 72

music/concerts 62

nature activities 59

bus trips 54

adult outdoor sports 46

youth indoor sports 41

summer day camps 38

youth outdoor sports 36

theater productions 36

adult indoor sports 36

special events 34

youth dances 33 winter outdoor activities 33

senior programs 29

after school programs 25

winter outdoor sports 24

dance 1 I 23 art p 17 other 16 pre-school programs 6 15

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 63 Question 5

The largest majority of resident use local recreation facilities 1 to 6 times per year. The second highest response was 12 or more times per year.

1-6 times/year 52 7 7-12 times/year . 46 12+ times/year --

never 43

Question 6

The most used facilities in the Township were identified as 1) playgrounds at Leidy Lane and Mitchell Parks, 2) Jackson Elementary School Playground, 3) Mitchell baseball fields, and 4) the Senior Center.

playgrounds (Mitchell & Leidy) 47 Jackson Elementary playground 34 baseball fi elds (Mitchell) 33

senior activities center 30

other 25 picnic shelters (Mitchell, 24 Leidy, & Veteran’s) basketball courts 16 (Mitchell) volleyball courts (Leidy) 8

softball fi elds (Leidy) 8

horseshoe courts 7

Question 7

The most used recreation facilities outside of Jackson Township were Ebensburg Young Peoples Community Center, Roweena Lake, Northern Cambria Ice Rink, Windber recreation facilities, Nanty Glo Park and swimming pool, Ghost Town Trail, and a variety of State Parks. Many also listed biking and hiking trails.

64 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan Question 8

The top facilities requested were an indoor swimming pool, permanent restrooms at parks, an exercise/fitness facility, hiking and biking trails, and a community center.

indoor swimming pool 64 permanenty restrooms at parks 57 exercise / fi rtness facility 56

hiking trails 50

community / rec center 45

outdoor swimming pool 43

art / dance facilities 34

shooting facilities 30

atv trails 26

skate parkk 25

gymnasium 22

community theater 22

outdoor amphitheater 19

banquet hall 19

tennis courts 17

soccer fi elds 17 outdoor basketball 16 courts other 15

camping facilites 13 community meeting hall 12 snowmobile trails 10 deck hockey courts 3

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 65 Question 9

Are parks and recreation importatnt to you?

86% - YES 12% - NO 2% - no response

Question 10

Are cultural opportunties (art, theater, music) important to you?

70% - YES 27% - NO 3% - no response

Question 11

Are you satisfied with the overall parks and recreation opposrtunties available to you?

43% - YES 45% - NO 12% - no response

Question 12

Are you satisfied with the current maintenance of recreation facilities?

73% - YES 16% - NO 11% - no response

Question 13

Please indicate the number of people in your household in each age group.

18% 0-9 yrs 11%

12% 10-14 yrs 7%

9% 15-19 yrs 6%

12% 20-34 yrs 15%

33% 35-64 yrs 44%

16% 65+ 17%

township population • response from questionnaire 66 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan Question 14

How long have you lived in Jackson Township?

10% 5%

85% I• more than 10 yrs D 5-10 yrs • less than 5 yrs

Question 15

Respondents indicated that development of existing parks and trails should receive priorities for funding.

development of existing 68 parks development of trails 64

acquisition of park land 30

acquisition of open space 27

none 13

other 15

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 67 Question 16

More than half of the respondents thought that funding for parks and recreation in Jackson Township should increase.

33

52

6 increased • decreased D stay the same

68 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan Chapter 4: Vision, Goals, Recommendations, and Implementation Strategies

69

V i s This chapter presents recommendations for the future of Jackson Township’s i Recreation, Parks, and Open Space System. Included in the following sections o n are the vision statement, goals, and implementation strategies for each of the , G following topics: oa • Administration ls, • Township Parks R • Recreation Facilities • Recreation Programming e • Trails, Greenways, and Open Space 1c o m VISION FOR THE FUTURE

m

e Successful long-range planning begins with a vision or “picture” of n how recreation, parks, and open space in Jackson Township should appear sometime in the future. By developing a methodology that

d works in simple, clear steps, the Township can understand and

a communicate to staff and the general public where it wants to go (the t

i Vision), what its goals are to accomplish (goals), and exactly how it o

n will achieve them (recommendations). This is especially important when

s soliciting support for park improvements, a new program, special event, or ,

facility. People will be more inclined to support a vision that is meaningful

a and exciting. They need to be able to understand that what you are asking of

n them is an integral part of the fulfillment of that vision.

d

How do residents of Jackson Township see parks and recreation in their community

I years from now? To arrive at the Vision, the consultant analyzed the results of the

m public participation process, including study and focus group meetings, public input sessions, key person interviews, and the results of the citizen survey. During

p the course of this analysis, the consultant looked for ideas (vision elements)

l consistently mentioned throughout the public process and identified during the

e inventory and analysis. m

e Vision Elements

n

t The elements identified are:

a t • Community Center

i • Restrooms at parks

o • Age gap in programming and facilities for non senior adults n • A system to administer and operate programs and maintenance; probably a

paid staff person

S • Outdoor winter sports t • Picnic pavilions

r • Hiking and biking trails

a • Year-round recreational programming

t • Swimming pool e

g • Outdoor activities

i • Exercise/fitness facility

e s These elements were used to develop the Vision Statement found on the next page.

71 JACKSON TOWNSHIP’S VISION FOR THE FUTURE

1. There will be a Community Center with multi-purpose room or gymnasium.

2. Year-round programming will be provided for all ages and interests.

3. A strong system to administer and operate programs and parks will be in place.

4. Township parks will be upgraded to meet the needs of Township residents.

5. There will be cooperation among agencies in the Township that provide all types of recreation and parks.

6. Jackson Township will cooperate with surrounding municipalities to serve the recreational interests of its residents.

7. A staff person will be hired to coordinate and manage parks and recreation.

8. Existing facilities will be well maintained.

9. Jackson Township will be a part of Cambria County’s extensive County-wide Trail System.

10. There will be a network of motorized and non-motorized trails throughout the Township.

11. Grant funds will be utilized for park and recreation improvements and development.

72 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan GOALS

Included in each section is a goal for the future of recreation, parks, and open space in the Township. The goals are broad in nature and are designed to be all-encompassing based upon community ideas and issues raised through the planning process. The goal statements reflect the themes identified through the public input process and illustrated in the vision for the future. These goals also provide the organizational structure for the implementation of the recommendations of this Plan and direction for the future of recreation, parks, and open space in Jackson Township.

Administration

The Township Recreation Board will operate, maintain, and administer the parks and recreation system effectively, efficiently, and with a vision for the future.

Recreational Programming

The Township Recreation Board will assure that a wide variety of recreational programming is available to Township residents either by providing it themselves or by partnering and cooperating with other groups, agencies, and municipalities.

Jackson Township Parks

The Township and the Recreation Board will make available appropriate and well-maintained recreational facilities that meet the needs of Jackson Township residents.

Recreation Facilities

The Township and the Recreation Board will make every effort to provide recreation facilities not currently available in the Township by working with other organizations when possible and constructing new facilities when feasible and appropriate.

Trails, Greenways, and Open Space

The Township and the Recreation Board will work to protect and preserve open space and greenways in Jackson Township and to support the development of the Cambria County Trail Plan, providing motorized and non-motorized trails and connections to local facilities where appropriate. The system will promote the Township’s future economic development.

Strategies for Action

Included as part of the following recommendations are specific strategies for the implementation of the Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan.

Information collected through both the public input process and the professional assessment was utilized to develop these strategies, which set forth a step-by-step plan for fulfilling each of the goals.

The implementation strategies are organized into tables. The information provided includes categories for strategy priority, responsible party, cost estimate, potential funding sources, and a space to record the completion of each strategy. These strategies are intended to provide guidance to the municipal decision makers and staff designated to implement them.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 73 REVIEW OF IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES

• formalize a process for maintaining an up-to-date summary of implementation accomplishments

• meet with municipal and school district officials on a quarterly basis to discuss progress, road blocks, and opportunities

• establish regular meetings with volunteer groups and other associations and individuals who are committed to assisting with the implementation of the strategies

• decide on project priorities prior to the annual budgeting process

Successful implementation will depend upon the fiscal and political climate in any given year. Therefore, it is essential that the strategies are reviewed and prioritized on an annual basis prior to the budgeting process.

Each implementation strategy was assigned a ranking of High, Medium, or Low by the Study Committee. A High (H) ranking suggests that the strategy be implemented in the first one to two years following the adoption of this Plan. Medium (M) ranked strategies are to be implemented in the third to sixth year, and Low (L) ranking strategies are to be implemented in the seventh to tenth year.

The potential funding sources identified in this section offer opportunities for providing all or partial financing for the implementation of the strategies. The opportunities identified do not constitute an exhaustive list and other possible resources should continually be sought. It will be important for the Municipality to be up-to-date on future funding sources. It should be noted that the cost estimates contained in the strategy tables are wide-ranging and should only serve as a starting point for project evaluation. Detailed costs will be developed as a particular project or strategy is selected for implementation.

74 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan ADMINISTRATION

GOAL:

The Township Recreation Board will operate, maintain, and administer the parks and recreation system effectively, efficiently, and with a vision for the future.

Responsible Recommendation Cost Priority Comments Person/Agency Adopt this Plan as the basis for Township Township Supervisors should 1 planning and development of parks $0 High Supervisors adopt this Plan by resolution. and recreation in Jackson Township. Utilize the three tier-planning system Township Description included on the 2 $0 Medium for implementation of this plan. Supervisors following pages Seek funding through a variety of sources for the development of Township Narrative funding strategies facilities. Work to leverage funds Supervisors provided on following pages. List 3 $0 High from one grant source against and Recreation of funding sources provided in the another to lower the Township’s costs Board Appendix. for development. Conduct a semi-annual safety and planning inspection of the parks for the purposes of identifying Recreation 4 safety hazards, and planning needed $0 High Board maintenance, improvements, repairs, and development. Invite Township Supervisors to attend. Develop and adopt a ten-year capital Township 5 improvements budget to assist in $0 High Included on following pages. Supervisors implementation of this Plan. Develop and implement a risk Township Description included on the 6 management plan for the parks and $0 High Supervisors following pages recreation system. Have the Recreation Board serve as a clearinghouse for recreation program information. This would Recreation 7 $0 Medium include all local agencies such as Boy Board and Girl Scouts, youth and adult sports groups, etc. Develop a plan to bring all Park Township 8 facilities into compliance with the $2,000 High Supervisors Americans With Disabilities Act.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 75 Coordinate a semi-annual meeting of all recreation providers to discuss Recreation 9 $0 High programming, facilities, cooperation, Board and publicity issues. Township Move the job of scheduling ballfi elds Supervisors Description included on the 10 $0 High and pavilions to the Township offi ce. and Recreation following pages Board Update the Township Ordinance that creates the Recreation Board Township See the Administrative Plan on the 11 $0 High to clearly defi ne the rights and Supervisors following pages. responsibilities of the Board. Increase the recreation budget to a level that allows the Recreation $10,000 Township 12 Board to provide adequate - High Supervisors recreational programming for $50,000 Township residents. Renew the lease between the Township and the Chickaree Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club for Township Description included on the 13 the 10-acre parcel of property in $2,000 High Supervisors following pages Mitchell Park. Update the lease to assure it meets both the Township’s and the Club’s needs. Planning

THREE-TIER GOAL SETTING SYSTEM

One example of a formal system of goal setting would include a three-tier plan. The Township and other municipalities should adopt a written vision statement (tier one) for Parks and Recreation. Within that vision a series of both long and short-range goals should be developed (tier two). The final step is to create annual or biannual goals (tier three) to be accomplished within those parameters. Each level becomes more clearly defined. The vision statement is intended to be very broad-based and forward- looking. Long and short-range goals are created to provide a framework for implementation of the vision. Finally, annual or biannual goals are developed to accomplish specific tasks. All goals should be clearly defined and measurable.

Adoption of this Plan provides both the vision statement and long and short range goals. Using the above stated system, Jackson Township would need to prioritize and adopt annual goals that begin to accomplish the long and short-range goals and move the community toward the fulfillment of a vision statement.

This planning process should continue to provide an opportunity for public participation. The Municipalities should provide a means for public participation. Area residents should have regular opportunities to share their input concerning the vision and goals of parks and recreation. Other possibilities should also be considered to allow for public input. These might include park and program evaluation forms, public meetings to discuss plans and goals of the Commission, neighborhood meetings, focus groups, and/or additional questionnaires.

76 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan TIER ONE

ADOPT A VISION Where do you want to be in 10 - 20 years?
TIER TWO

ADOPT LONG AND SHORT-RANGE GOALS General goals to move toward fulfilling the Vision Statement
TIER THREE

ANNUAL AND BIANNUAL GOALS Very specific and measurable goals intended to accomplish the long and short-range goals

Grant Sources and Funding Strategies

GRANTS SOURCES

There are many sources of funding for parks and recreation. However, there are three primary governmental programs that provide grants to local communities for parks and recreation purposes. The programs and funding opportunities are listed below. Additional sources of funding are listed at the end of this chapter.

1. PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Maximum Grant - Approximately $100,000 (sometimes more can be available) Local Match - Generally grants require a 50% local match Sources of Local Match - Generally local cash match. In-kind services are now eligible as a match under certain conditions. DCED grants can be used as a match. Funding Cycle - Applications are generally due in late October. Awards are announced the following March. Eligible Uses a) Technical assistance b) Feasibility studies for recreation facilities c) Acquisition of additional park land d) Development and rehabilitation of existing facilities

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 77 2. PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Maximum Grant - No specified limit. Could be as much as $500,000 or more. Local Match - Generally grants require some local match, although 100% funding is available. DCED grants can be used to match DCNR grants. Sources of Local Match - Generally local cash match. In-kind services may be eligible as a match under certain conditions. Private local investment is encouraged. Funding Cycle - Applications are accepted at any time. Awards are generally made on a quarterly basis in July, October, January, and April. Eligible Uses a) Community facility construction and/or rehabilitation b) Some funding can be used for programming

3. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Maximum Grant - Determined by the County Local Match - Determined by the County Sources of Local Match - Generally local cash match. In-kind services may be eligible as a match under certain conditions. Funding Cycle - Determined by the County Eligible Uses a) Community facility construction and/or rehabilitation b) Some funding can be used for programming c) Limitations may be set by the County

GRANTS STRATEGIES

Applying for a grant is not simply a matter of filling out the proper forms and submitting them. Grants can be very competitive. Often, funding agencies receive requests that amount to as much as ten times more than the money that is available. It is, therefore, very important that you are well prepared in submitting your application. The following outlines several steps that can significantly improve your chances of receiving a grant.

1. Be well prepared

a. Know the funding agency - contact persons, addresses, and phone numbers. b. Be sure you are an eligible applicant for the agency and program through which you intend to apply. c. Investigate each grant opportunity to be sure that what you are applying for meets the funding criteria. d. Be complete and accurate in your application. Do not assume that you will have an opportunity to correct mistakes, update data, etc. e. Submit your application several days prior to the deadline. This assures it is in on time and shows that you are well prepared.

2. Have a vision and a plan

a. A vision shows the funding agency that you have looked to the future. It shows where your application fits into the bigger picture in your community and/or department. A vision can come from your Comprehensive Recreation, Parks and Open Space Plan or be a part of a broader community effort. b. A plan shows that you have looked at the details of what you want to do. Be more specific in your plan than in your vision. c. Describe where your matching funds will come from. Show that you can leverage funding from a variety of sources - local taxes, private contributions, other grants, etc.

78 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan d. Describe in detail how you will address maintenance of any facilities you are requesting funding for. Maintenance is a key factor if an agency is to invest large dollars in your project. e. Show previous success you have had. Show existing projects that have previously been funded. Indicate how your successes in other projects will impact the project you are applying for.

3. Contact the funding agencies

a. Make a personal contact with the funding agency as early as you can in the process. Keep them informed but don’t badger them. Show them your vision and how this specific project fits into it. b. DCED - Contact your local State Representative and/or Senator. Also contact the Pittsburgh DCED office. c. DCNR - Contact Regional Recreation Advisor, Cindy Dunlap. d. CDBG - Make a personal visit to the Cambria County Office responsible for the CDBG Funding.

Other Funding Strategies

It is important to consider multiple funding sources for most major projects. Identify the possible groups, organizations, or grants agencies that may have an interest in a specific project. Consider the following potential sources of funding.

• Grants Agencies – See the list of potential grants sources provided in this report. It is wise to consider more than one grant source for multifaceted projects. Different agencies may be willing to provide funding for different portions of your project. For example, if a project includes construction of trails and development of a neighborhood park, there are agencies that will fund trails and others who will fund parks. Applying to both types of agencies for funding that meets their specific criteria enhances the likelihood of receiving a grant.

• Surrounding Municipalities – In come cases surrounding municipalities have a specific interest in park facilities located within another municipality. In these cases there may be interest in making a financial contribution toward the project.

• Local Organizations – Often local recreation organizations are willing to raise funds to be used for upgrades to their facilities. These funds should be considered as part of the local match for grant funding. For example, if a football organization is already investing $10,000 to $15,000 annually into upgrading of facilities, they may be willing to utilize several years’ worth of that investment toward a major renovation of the football facility. This could mean as much as fifty to seventy-five thousand dollars available to be used as matching funds for a grant.

• Funds Already Planned for Use – It is also helpful to consider funds that may already be allocated for use in or near a park that may be used as a source of matching funds. For instance, if a water or sewer line is being planned to run through a park, tapping into that line could make the money spent for its installation an eligible match for a park project. The same could be true of parking areas, roads, trails, trailheads, and other projects.

• Creativity – Creativity is key to finding and leveraging funding sources with one another. The intent is to reduce the local share as low as possible, while accomplishing the goals of the project. Consider as many options as you can identify. Then contact the funding agencies to determine whether or not your plan meets their requirements.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 79 Risk Management Plan

A risk management plan for parks and recreation facilities is of the highest importance for the safety of the residents and to minimize the municipalities’ liability exposure. Risk management is accident prevention. When facilities and programs are provided for public use, every precaution should be taken to ensure user safety. Documentation of all risk management procedures is essential, not only for good record keeping and maintenance scheduling, but also to provide evidence in case of legal action. The risk management plan should be based on the competence and training of recreation and maintenance staff. Staff should be trained in safety procedures and should be expected to be constantly aware of the condition of facilities used. Staff should be trained to recognize and post unsafe conditions, prevent the use of unsafe equipment and facilities, and report safety hazards, in writing, so they can be remedied in a timely manner. Regularly scheduled safety inspections should be conducted by trained staff at every facility available for public use. Written work orders should be issued for needed repairs and completed work should be documented.

Adequate liability insurance must be kept up-to-date. As new programs and facilities are developed, liability insurance coverage should be revised to reflect new conditions. Regular communication with the insurance carriers is necessary. Both risk to users and insurance costs may be reduced if all existing and proposed facilities can be brought into compliance with current safety standards and guidelines.

Ballfi eld and Pavilion Reservations

Reservations for the Township’s ballfields and picnic pavilions should be done through the Township office. This provides a location that is available on a regular schedule for residents to contact for these services. The Recreation Board should still be the ones to establish both policies and associated fees for facility use.

A nominal fee ($5.00 - $10.00) should be charged for the use of picnic pavilions Fees are not necessary at this time for use of the Township’s ballfields but may be considered in the future.

Parks and Recreation Administrative Plan

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES FOR ADMINISTRATIVE BODIES

Jackson Township Supervisors

• Adopt this Plan as the basis for maintaining a strong parks and recreation program within the Township. • Maintain ultimate responsibility for all parks and recreation operations. • Supervise the maintenance of the parks. • Supervise the Recreation Board and their functions. • Establish a reasonable budget for parks and recreation. • Adopt a new ordinance that clearly defines the duties, responsibilities, power, and authority of the Township Recreation Board. • Maintain the Vision for parks and recreation that the Township residents have established through this Plan.

Public Works Department

• Reports to the Township Manager • Assists with maintenance of Township parks

80 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan Parks and Recreation Board

• Reports to Jackson Township Supervisors

The Board will focus on achieving the mission and vision set for parks and recreation in the Township as adopted by the Township Supervisors. Once Jackson Township Supervisors adopt this Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan, it shall become the Township’s Vision for Parks and Recreation for the Future.

The Board shall:

1. Play a lead role in keeping the Township’s vision current and focused. However, it remains the role of the Supervisors to adopt such changes as they see fit. 2. Help the Township Supervisors maintain a focus on implementation of this Plan. 3. Work with the Township Supervisors to adopt annual goals and strategies for implementation of the Plan. 4. Serve in an advisory role to the Township Supervisors. Supervisors may give specific rights and/or responsibilities in which the Board may not need to make recommendations to the Supervisors. 5. Assist the Township Supervisors in identifying and developing funding opportunities for improvements and development. 6. Assure that a cross-section of stakeholders is represented on the Board. Interests that should be considered for representation on the Board include: • non-athletic users • teens • seniors • families • athletic organizations • arts • swimming • park planning • open space 7. Provide a well-balanced variety of recreational programming for Township residents. 8. Conduct an annual tour of all Township park facilities each spring to assure an understanding of each facility, its condition, and its needs. Present a report to the Township Supervisors detailing the findings of the tour. 9. Manage the operations of the recreation department and Township parks. 10. Supervise all recreation staff. 11. Coordinate recreation programming with other local recreation providers. 12. Advise Township Supervisors on budgetary matters that pertain to parks and recreation. 13. Serve as a community advocate for parks and recreation. 14. Coordinate the use of park facilities. 15. Monitor park facilities and make recommendations to the Township Supervisors for maintenance and/or improvements. 16. Maintain an inventory of park and recreation facilities and recreation providers in the community. 17. Coordinate the publicity of community recreation. 18. Assist the Township Supervisors in the implementation of the Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan. 19. Assist in the application for grants. 20. Undertake fundraising efforts.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 81 GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARKS AND RECREATION I JACKSON TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS Day-to-day management of parks and recreation I RECREATION BOARD PUBLIC WORKS TOWNSHIP MANAGER & STAFF Day-to-day management Assist with park of recreation maintenance Assist with day-to-day - management Supervision of recreation staff Facility reservations

Lease with the Chickaree Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club

On April 30, 1987, Jackson Township entered into an agreement to lease a portion of Mitchell Park to the Chickaree Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club. That twenty-year lease is set to expire on April 30, 2007. Throughout the duration of this lease, the Snowmobile Club has provided a valuable recreational facility to residents of Jackson Township and the surrounding area. It is the recommendation of this Plan that the lease be renewed but that the Township should consider the following modifications.

1. The term of the new lease should be shortened to between five and ten years. In recent years the trend has been that recreational demands are changing quite rapidly. A shorter lease will allow both the Township and the Club to adapt according to current recreational demands. 2. A clause should be written into the lease indemnifying the Township from responsibility for any accident or injury on the leased property or that occurs on the remaining park property that is a result of the operations of the Snowmobile Club. 3. A clause should be added to the lease requiring the Snowmobile Club to carry a specified amount of liability and other insurances as determined by the Township solicitor. 4. The Township solicitor should review the entire lease to assure it is in the best interest of the Township. Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society & National Recreation and Park Association

The Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society (PRPS) is the primary organization promoting quality recreation and park opportunities for all Pennsylvania citizens. They are a tremendous support for local municipalities and parks and recreation agencies. PRPS provides education, training, technical assistance, and other support to local, county, state, and federal recreation and park providers. The Society can be of tremendous value to Jackson Township.

The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) serves as the national voice for parks and recreation across the US. It provides tremendous support to local parks and recreation agencies.

Membership in both of these agencies is essential to assure that local agencies are keeping abreast of current programs and issues in parks and recreation. 82 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan RECREATIONAL PROGRAMMING

GOAL:

The Township Recreation Board will assure that a wide variety of recreational programming is available to Township residents either by providing it themselves or by partnering and cooperating with other groups, agencies, and municipalities.

Responsible Recommendation Cost Priority Comments Person/Agency Conduct a feasibility study for the Recreation See description of previously construction of a local community center to Board and listed Grant Strategies and 1 house community events and activities and to $15,000 Medium Township Potential Fuding Sources provide a meeting place for local organizations Supervisors listed in the Appendix such as the Boy and Girl Scouts. See description of previously Construct a community center if the listed Grant Strategies and 2 $12,000 Medium feasibility study recommends it. Potential Fuding Sources listed in the Appendix Recreation Work with the DCNR Bureau of Forestry Board and 3 to determine the best uses of the Chickaree $0 High Township Mountain property. Supervisors Cooperate with Nanty Glo and Ebensburg for Recreation 4 use of their respective community swimming $0 High Board pools. Coordinate with the Central Cambria School Recreation 5 District for the use of the High School $0 Medium Board swimming pool. Recreation Become a participating community with the Board and 6 regional Young People’s Community Center Unknown Medium Township in Ebensburg. Supervisors

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 83 JACKSON TOWNSHIP PARKS

GOAL:

The Township and the Recreation Board will make available appropriate and well-maintained recreational facilities that meet the needs of Jackson Township residents.

Responsible Recommendation Cost Priority Comments Person/Agency Develop a master site plan for Mitchell Park to direct and control future development. Needs identifi ed as part of this plan include: permanent See description of restrooms, 2-3 large pavilions (to hold 100-200 Recreation previously listed Grant users), a walking trail, additional parking space, Board and $100,000 1 Medium Strategies and Potential general lighting, additional storage, a larger Township - $600,000 Funding Sources listed playground to include equipment for ages 5-12, Supervisors in the Appendix general landscaping improvements, a soccer fi eld, a small baseball fi eld, a spray pad, and additional picnic tables and benches. Implement the following improvements at Leidy Park: install permanent restrooms; enlarge, grade, and improve the parking lot and entrance See description of drive; expand and improve the playground; Recreation previously listed Grant construct a fence barrier between the playground Board and 2 $150,000 Medium Strategies and Potential and the main road; install a paved fl oor in the Township Funding Sources listed pavilion; construct dugouts at new ballfi eld; Supervisors in the Appendix install general park lighting. New facilities should not be added to this park unless the park is expanded or existing facilities are replaced. See description of Recreation previously listed Grant Acquire additional property surrounding Leidy Board and Unknown 3 Medium Strategies and Potential Park to increase its size. Township at this time Funding Sources listed Supervisors in the Appendix See description of Recreation Construct additional lighting at Veteran’s Park previously listed Grant Board and 4 to allow for extended use of the park. No $10,000 Medium Strategies and Potential Township additional facilities should be added to this park. Funding Sources listed Supervisors in the Appendix Recreation Designate a specifi ed acreage as Lorraine Park to Board and 5 protect for future development as a community $0 High Township recreation facility. Supervisors Recreation Implement the recommendations of the Board and Provided separately 6 $5,000 High playground safety audits. Township from this report Supervisors 84 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan RECREATION FACILITIES

GOAL:

The Township and the Recreation Board will make every effort to provide recreation facilities not currently available in the Township by working with other organizations when possible and constructing new facilities when feasible and appropriate.

Responsible Recommendation Cost Priority Comments Person/Agency Expand recreation programming to include winter outdoor sports, youth programs, after school programs, special events, Recreation 1 $10,000 Medium holiday activities, exercise and fi tness, nature Board activities, summer daycamps, bus trips, outdoor concerts, youth and adult sports. Evaluate ways to cooperate with the Borough Recreation 2 of Nanty Glo for providing parks and $0 Low Board recreation programs and facilities. Cooperate with the municipalities of the Central Cambria School District to publish Recreation 3 an annual or semi-annual regional recreation $0 High Board activities brochure and provide cooperative recreation programs. Publish recreation activities and Recreation 4 programming on the Jackson Township web $300 High Board page. Township As programs and facilities develop, hire Supervisors 5 a recreation coordinator to manage the $10,000 Medium and Recreation Township’s parks and recreation. Board Charge a nominal fee for recreational Recreation 6 $0 Medium programming to help offset direct expenses. Board Keep track of attendance at all activities and Recreation 7 $0 High events. Board Utilize existing indoor facilities such as Jackson Elementary School, the Senior Recreation 8 $0 High Center, and the Fire Hall for recreational Board programs.

Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan 85 TRAILS, GREENWAYS, AND OPEN SPACE

GOAL:

The Township and the Recreation Board will work to protect and preserve open space and greenways in Jackson Township and to support the development of the Cambria County Trail Plan, providing motorized and non-motorized trails and connections to local facilities where appropriate. The system will promote the Township’s future economic development.

Responsible Recommendation Cost Priority Comments Person/Agency Adopt this plan as the basis for development Township 1 of trails, greenways, and open space $0 High Supervisors strategies. Develop a land dedication and fees in lieu of Township 2 ordinance to protect land during residential $2,000 High Supervisors development. Work with the Snowmobile Club to increase Township 3 the number of roads that are legal for $0 High Supervisors snowmobile use. Coordinate with the PA Game Commission Recreation 4 to improve existing trails on State Game $0 High Board Lands in the Township. Rock Run is a 6,000-acre park Provide users of motorized trails with located in northern Cambria information about Rock Run Recreation Recreation County. It will have over 150 5 $0 High Area and other parks that provide motorized Board miles of motorized vehicle vehicle trails. trails when it is completely developed. Evaluate opportunities for trails along Recreation 6 $0 Low existing and future utility right-of-ways. Board Support the Cambria County Conservation and Recreation Authority and the PA Recreation 7 Greenways Plan in completion of the $0 High Board proposed trail connection between the Path of the Flood and the Ghost Town Trail. Evaluate the feasibility of a trail connection from Mitchell Park to the proposed trail link Recreation 8 $5,000 Low between the Path of the Flood and the Ghost Board Town Trail.

86 Jackson Township Comprehensive Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Plan INSERT CAMBRIA COUNTY TRAIL MAP