1 B. Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

B. Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms

I. Project Justification and Support

A. Need for Project in Relation to Other Facilities and Opportunities including past recreation grants received, the condition of grant-assisted sites, and how the project relates to recreation plan

Need for Project in Relation to Other Facilities and Opportunities

The only restaurant facility located along the 6+ mile stretch of the Paint Creek Trail between Rochester and Lake Orion is the Paint Creek Cider Mill, located in the hamlet of Goodison. This facility is owned by the Charter Township of Oakland and houses both municipal offices as well as a cider mill concession that is open during the spring, summer and fall seasons. The cider mill café offers trail users the opportunity to buy drinks and food. Unfortunately, Paint Creek separates the trailway from the cider mill and there is not a non-motorized trail connection, forcing bicyclists and pedestrians to use Gallagher Road, alongside automobiles, in order to reach the entrance of the Paint Creek Cider Mill.

Along this same stretch of the Paint Creek Trail, between Rochester and Orion Township, the only nearby public restrooms are located inside Oakland Township municipal buildings and therefore unavailable outside the Township’s hours of operation, which are typically 8:00 am – 4:30 pm Monday through Friday. Since the Paint Creek Trail hours of operation are from 6:00 am through 10:00 pm every day of the week there is a need to provide support facilities with hours of operation that would better match the needs of trailway users.

Also, currently there is no ADA accessible fishing facility on this stretch of Paint Creek and very limited interpretive signage. This proposed project would fill all of these needs: an accessible pedestrian bridge connection to support facilities at the Paint Creek Cider Mill, a platform for fishing, nature observation and environmental education on Paint Creek, two toilets and an outdoor drinking fountain, and interpretive signage.

In the near term the construction of the pedestrian bridge will facilitate a connection between the Paint Creek Trail, the new fishing access and support facilities at the Paint Creek Cider Mill. In the longer term this pedestrian bridge will facilitate connections between the Paint Creek Trail and Oakland Township’s non-motorized network, including proposed pathways along Gallagher Road and along Collins Road.

The desired completion of these proposed improvements is shown in the Paint Creek Trail Master Plan, the Oakland Township Parks, Recreation, Land Preservation and Trails Master Plan and the 2012 draft of the Oakland Township Goodison Sub Area Master Plan; and as a result this proposed project is enthusiastically supported.

The 2009-2013 Paint Creek Trailways Commission Recreation Master Plan shows this project’s proposed connector on page 135 as a high priority 2009 capital improvement project based upon the plan’s following goals and objectives stated on pages 110-112:

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

Goal: Provide a Safe and Enjoyable Environment which encourages Acceptable Use Objectives: *Accommodating major Trail uses by pedestrians and bicyclists by working with the Charter Township of Oakland to construct a pedestrian foot bridge over the Paint Creek to connect the Trail to the Trail Office rest area. *Accommodating angler access to stream at desirable locations, while minimizing erosion and promoting appropriate fishing access points. *Improve accessibility of trail for all persons by identifying suitable ADA accessible areas and including specific improvements in plans for those areas.

Goal: Identify the need for or the desirability of user facilities and rest areas along or adjacent to the Trail Objectives: *Develop viewing areas, enhanced near scenic areas, so users may enjoy nature. *Develop restroom facilities in each community, as needed, for Trail users to utilize while on trail. *Develop drinking fountains or access to drinking water at various points along the Trail for Trail users.

This project’s proposed fishing facility is consistent with goals included in the MDNR Fisheries Division Clinton River Assessment. Along Paint Creek, it will be the first fishing facility directly connected to accessible spaces in a designated Paint Creek Trailway parking lot; providing creek access to people with a wide variety of abilities and interests including fishing, nature observation, environmental education or relaxation. This proposed fishing platform would add a fishing access to a desirable stretch of Paint Creek. The only other universally accessible fishing facility on Paint Creek will be located 2+ miles north near the Adams Road intersection.

This section of Paint Creek is popular with local fisher people but it has been difficult for them to get down to the creek’s floodplain elevation of while carrying their equipment and cutting through dense woody vegetation at the same time. In addition to facilitating creek access, this ramp and platform will direct fisher people to this one access site; greatly reducing ad hoc trails which can lead to increased vegetation trampling and streamside erosion in the Paint Creek floodplain.

This project will also provide universally accessible interpretive signage would be installed at a creek side viewing area located between the proposed pedestrian bridge and the fishing platform. Facing the creek, the sign could describe the creek and floodplain habitats as well as the specific plants and wildlife found there. This sign will be designed to visually display information at a height and angle and in alternative formats that are easily understood by most users. The sign will also include auditory information.

Describe how project relates to Oakland Township’s 5-year recreation plan.

This proposed project is consistent with Oakland Township’s 2010-2014 Parks, Recreation, Land Preservation and Trails Master Plan goals, objectives and capital improvement plan. The Township's

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

current non-motorized system includes 13.6 miles of existing pathways and the majority of the Paint Creek Trail, (the first rail trail in Michigan, established in 1983).

This proposed project, to build a pedestrian bridge across Paint Creek to connect the Paint Creek Trail with Paint Creek Cider Mill support facilities, is listed on page 94 of the 5-year plan as a high priority 2014 capital improvement project. This project is included on page 86 under the plan’s Trails and Path Strategy 6.3 “Collaborate with a variety of commission, agencies and groups to implement the Trails Master Plan approved by the Township (which is shown as appendix A in the 2010-2014 Master Plan and is attached) specifically citing the objective of providing greater access to parks, Paint Creek Trail and Urban areas.”

The recommendation in the 5-year plan was based on the results of the 2009 Township-wide survey and an evaluation of current and future facilities improvements.

On page 73 the Trails Facilities Analysis indicates that based on national guidelines, survey results and evaluation of current and future facilities improvements, the Township should provide better connectivity between trails, facilities, restrooms, and drinking fountains.

Specifically, the results of the 2009 Township-wide Parks and Recreation Community Attitude and Interest Survey, seen in Appendix E of the master plan, support this project’s proposed recreation uses. 59% of survey respondents indicated that the greatest need that they have for trail amenities is for additional restrooms and 35% or respondents indicated that the second greatest need is for drinking fountains.

Moreover, the destinations that respondents indicated would be most important to access from proposed trails and pathways included: Paint Creek Trail (78%), parks/natural areas (54%) and urban areas (41%); all of which are destinations for this project’s proposed trail connection.

Describe each grant-assisted site within Township parks system

Grant-funded projects within the Township’s park system include the following projects, of which none provide the direct trail connection to user support facilities or the creek fishing access in the 6+ mile stretch where the current proposed project will be located.

The 2001 acquisition and 2009/2010 development of Marsh View Park includes a beginner archery range, trails, a wetland observation deck, sports fields, a basketball court and support facilities. All facilities, with the exception of the sports fields that must rest until 2012, were opened to the public in fall 2010.

The 2002 development of Bear Creek Nature Park included barrier-free limestone trails, boardwalks, observation decks, a playground, a picnic pavilion, and support facilities. Nature

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

programs, stewardship workdays, summer outdoor concerts, and a fall festival are held regularly at this park.

The 2004 acquisition of Lost Lake Nature Park preserves this park’s glacial lake, wetlands, geological formations, rare plant communities and the wildlife that inhabit them. Nature programs, stewardship workdays, summer outdoor concerts, and a winter festival are held regularly at this park. The 2010 Lost Lake Nature Park development grant recommendation is intended to meet previous MNRTF Project Agreement requirements for provision of barrier-free improvements at Lost Lake Nature Park including renovation of an existing residence for nature center use as well as the addition of a dock, accessibility improvements, and outdoor signage.

The 2008 acquisition of Stony Creek Ravine Nature Park preserved a half-mile stretch of the West Branch of the Stony Creek, as well as oak hardwood forest, wetland and grassland. This park is open for passive recreation use including hiking and nature observation. Nature programs and stewardship workdays are held here. Antlerless archery deer hunting is offered annually at this park through a Township permit system during October, November and December.

The 2011 Paint Creek Trail to Polly Ann Trail Southern Connector proposes a .75 mile universally accessible trail connector that will complete a route that takes pedestrians and bicyclists from the southern end of the Polly Ann Trail through Bald Mountain Recreation Area to the Paint Creek Trail. This proposed universally accessible development includes paved trail, boardwalks, pedestrian bridges, interpretive/directional signage and a fishing access to Paint Creek.

B. Collaboration with Adjacent Communities/Conservation Organization

This project demonstrates collaboration with a regional trailway agency and its friends group, neighboring jurisdictions and a conservation organization to achieve regional benefits as evidenced by the incoming letters and resolutions of support from the Paint Creek Trailways Commission, the Friends of the Paint Creek Trail, adjacent communities including the City of Rochester, City of Rochester Hills, the Charter Township of Orion, the Village of Lake Orion; and the Clinton River Watershed Council.

In 2011 Oakland Township’s Goodison Sub Area Plan was undertaken to document design recommendation and implementation strategies to enhance Goodison, the historic unincorporated hamlet where our proposed project is located. This Sub Area plan is intended to be an addition to the Township-wide Master Plan and is intended to guide land use planning and development within the Goodison area.

Representatives from the organizations listed above participated in a three-day design charrette to gather input about the Goodison area (where our project is located) and to produce design concepts to address public concerns and ideas. This process included stakeholder interviews, public brainstorming where Goodison’s liabilities, assets needs and desired were identified and prioritized, an open design studio, and the public presentation of a draft design solutions. Participants indicated that the greatest challenges facing this area include pedestrian and vehicular circulation, safety, and traffic management.

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

The results of these public input activities were organized into four themes, the first of which covers Pedestrian /Vehicular Circulation and safety. This theme describes the Goodison area as an attractive historical stopping point with access to parking, trails, restrooms, water and food items. However, the recreation amenities, such as the Paint Creek Trail, are physically separated from retailers and offices, such as those located at the Paint Creek Cider Mill, by roadways. A solution to the lack of connection between the Paint Creek Trail and the Paint Creek Cider Mill is seen in Design Recommendation #1 on page 16 of the Goodison Sub Area Plan draft. This solution illustrates how the proposed pedestrian bridge over Paint Creek would facilitate safer pedestrian and bicyclist access between the trail and the mill in the near term. It also illustrates how this improvement is integral to the recommended future circulation improvements at the Collins and Orion Road intersection.

In addition to the recent Goodison planning activities, representatives of adjacent communities and school districts have been personally invited to participate in numerous 5-year plan public input events. Representatives from all surrounding communities, three local school districts, and nearby park and trail agencies, were personally invited to participate in community leader interviews and stakeholder focus groups that were held during June, July and August 2009. In addition separate focus groups were held in September 2009 to gather specific input from local school district representatives and students. On November 4, 2009 more than 100 people attended a Community Master Plan Open House. The comments and suggestions from all these events have helped to shape our community parks and recreation master plan and this grant application project. The Township’s 2010-2014 Master Plan Appendix E contains much documentation regarding these efforts.

Community members have been integral to the planning of Oakland Township's Trails and Paths system. A Citizen Task Force was formed in 2009 specifically for this purpose and they focused on the selection and prioritization of path and trail routes.

Regarding this proposed project, Oakland Township staff has had on-site project planning meetings with Paint Creek Trailways staff, Clinton River Watershed Council staff, Township officials, and Township engineering consultants to tour and discuss the proposed connection between the Paint Creek Trail and Cider Mill, including the best locations for the pedestrian bridge, fishing access and support facilities.

C. Public Input and Support

This proposed project is supported in three relevant planning documents at local and regional levels: The Paint Creek Trail 2009 – 2013 Recreation Mater Plan, the Oakland Township Parks, Recreation, Land Preservation and Trails 2009 – 2014 Master Plan, and the 2012 Goodison Sub Area Plan. This project will be beneficial both locally and regionally as evidenced by the letters and resolutions of support that are being gathered from local residents and businesses, Paint Creek Trail users, MDNR Fisheries Division, Oakland County Economic Development, the Oakland County Trails Advisory Council, and the Clinton River Watershed Council.

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

During 2012, several public meetings were held to inform the community and receive comment about the details of this proposed project, its benefits, as well as well as Oakland Township's intention to finance the project by combining Township general and Trail millage funds with MNRTF grant funding. On February 21, 2012 the preliminary project concept was an agenda item at the regular Paint Creek Trailways Commission meeting where it was presented and supported by the Commission. On March 20, 2012, at a joint meeting of the Paint Creek Trailways Commission and the Oakland Township Board of Trustees will be held to receive input on this grant proposal. Lastly, on March 27, 2012 at the regular Oakland Township Board of Trustees meeting the project will be presented and considered for this MNRTF grant application. Comments received from Oakland Township residents, trailway users, and local stakeholders concerning this proposed project will be attached to this application. An article about this project will be featured in the next Township Newsletter that is mailed to all Township property owners.

In 2011, as part of the Goodison Sub Area process to gather community input, a Goodison study-area survey was distributed to gather input from property owners about their perceptions of the Goodison area and ideas for the future. This survey revealed that recreational opportunities are the main draw for residents to the Goodison area with 80% of respondents indicating that the main reason for their visit to the Goodison area was walking or biking the Paint Creek Trail, visiting a cider mill or a nearby Township park. It was not surprising that recreation trails were the most desirable future land use in the Goodison area was by a wide margin. It also revealed that residents value the area’s natural features and want to preserve and enhance them. This grant proposal supports both the local residents’ current use of this area as well as their desire for the enhancement of trail connections and enjoyment of natural features such as the Paint Creek.

In 2008 and 2009, as part of the Township-wide trail planning efforts, the public was invited to provide the input that would shape this project. Oakland Township asked the greater community to participate in significant network planning efforts that yielded a Township-wide non-motorized master plan and route prioritization criteria. A Citizen Task Force was formed in 2009 specifically for this purpose and they focused on the selection and prioritization of path and trail routes. Their planning meetings which were held during the winter and spring of 2009 culminated in a well-attended June 11, 2009 open house. The open house introduced the community to the Township-wide non-motorized plan and gave them an opportunity to speak directly with Township representatives and to provide written comment which was later reviewed and addressed in revisions to the Master Plan.

Also during the summer and fall of 2009 additional community input regarding this system was gathered through focus groups and a community attitude/interest survey. This input shaped the Township Trails and Paths Master Planning that was included within the Township's 2010-2014 Parks, Recreation, Land Preservation and Trails Master Plan (which is available for review on the Parks page of the Township website: www.oaklandtownship.org.)

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

D. Participation by Disability Advocacy Groups and Suggestions and Comments Received Regarding Project’s Universal Design

During the summer of 2012 Oakland Township will hold a design workshop open house to gather additional input from Township residents, regional accessibility advocates, and representatives from nearby communities, park systems, and school districts. Accessibility advocacy representatives that will be contacted for help on this project include Centers for Independent Living (Disability Network of Oakland and Macomb), ARC of Oakland County, Little People of America, Paralyzed Veterans of America – Michigan Chapter, Agencies for the aging (Older Persons’ Commission), Local School (Rochester School District Special Education Coordinator), Leader Dogs for the Blind, and Oakland County Parks’ Adaptive Recreation staff. These groups advocate for accessibility at local, regional and state levels. Oakland Township worked successfully with similar groups of advocates on the development of the 2011 MNRTF grant project: Paint Creek Trail to Polly Ann Trail Southern Connector.

II. Project Description

A. Project Description Referring to Specific Scope Items

This proposed universally accessible project includes a pedestrian bridge over Paint Creek that would offer safe and direct access from the half-way point on the Paint Creek Trailway, a regional rail trail, to proposed support and recreation facilities located at the Paint Creek Cider Mill. The Paint Creek Cider Mill is owned by the Charter Township of Oakland and houses a cider mill café and offices for both the Paint Creek Trailways Commission and Oakland Township Parks and Recreation.

The proposed support facilities include the first universally accessible public restrooms that would be available on the 6+ mile long stretch of the Paint Creek Trail between Rochester and Orion Township. A new platform will also offer accessible fishing, nature observation, and environmental opportunities on Paint Creek, the highest quality trout stream in southeast Michigan.

This proposed project, located in Section 28 of Oakland Township, is situated approximately half way between either ends of the 8.9 mile Paint Creek Trail. The site is bordered by Gallagher Road to the north, Orion Road to the east, the Paint Creek Trail to the west and Paint Creek to the south. Please see Project Location map.

This proposed project’s scope items include accessible trail connections, a pedestrian bridge over Paint Creek, fishing access/nature observation on Paint Creek, two restrooms, an outdoor drinking fountain and interpretive/directional signage. Detailed descriptions of each scope item are below.

1. Site Preparation and Restoration

This scope items consists of mobilization, traffic control, removing a portion of the existing parking lot curb, soil erosion control measures, earthwork, vegetation removal, and vegetation restoration. Vegetation removal and earthwork will be minimized through appropriate route location that provides direct access to the parking lot, Since construction vehicles will be able to access the project site from either the parking lot or the trail, the area of disturbance will be minimized and no staging will occur in

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

previously undisturbed areas. Since the access route is located adjacent to an existing parking lot, the project does not intrude into the creek’s natural vegetative buffer and only 3 trees are proposed for removal.

2. Universally-accessible Pedestrian Bridge

A 12 foot wide pedestrian bridge will span 60 feet across Paint Creek. This will be a pre-fabricated steel truss pedestrian bridge that spans the water course. There will be no impacts to the creek or floodplain. See drawing sheet 6.

3. Universally-accessible Fishing Access/Nature Observation/Environmental Education Platform

The proposed Paint Creek fishing/nature observation access will consist of a 10’ x 10’ platform located at the edge of Paint Creek. The platform, which will accommodate side by side wheelchair parking, will have a lowered fishing railing, fishing pole holders, fishing landing cutaways, a built-in backed bench and a tackle box stand. The platform will be constructed of composite decking. Railings are modified to provide accessible viewing opportunities in areas overlooking Paint Creek wetlands and floodplains. See drawing sheets 4 and 5.

4. Universally-accessible Concrete and Crushed Aggregate Walkway

1000 square feet of concrete pavement will provide universal access to barrier-free parking spaces, the pedestrian bridge, the fishing/nature observation platform, interpretive signage, vault toilets and a crosswalk to the drinking fountain at the Paint Creek Cider Mill. A small portion of crushed aggregate pathway will connect between the Paint Creek Trail’s crushed limestone surface and the concrete pathway transition to the pedestrian bridge. See Site Development Plan on drawing sheet 3 and Concrete Sidewalk Cross-section on drawing sheet 6.

5. Universally Accessible Vault Toilets and Drinking Fountains

A double waterless restroom will be conveniently located on the Paint Creek Cider Mill property adjacent to the proposed pedestrian bridge. The cedar-sided restroom structure will match the material and architectural style of the Paint Creek Cider Mill. This structure will contain two unisex restrooms; each restroom containing a 1000 gallon underground waste vault. A privacy partition and all –weather porch will protect users from the elements and provide a visual buffer from the parking lot. Accessible door pulls, toilet risers, and turning radii are standard for these units. The underground vaults will be constructed of impervious polyethylene, which has been recommended in a U.S. Forest Service publication as the best material available because it will not crack, chip or peel in the harshest of weather conditions. See included specifications for the Romtec Traditional Double Waterless Restroom.

Dual Hi Lo Wall Mount drinking fountains will be conveniently located on the exterior of the Paint Creek Cider Mill, adjacent to the cider mill entry doors. These fountains, which meet ADA regulations, will be mounted at two different heights; 32” and 40” to accommodate a variety of ages and abilities. See included specifications for the Most Dependable Fountains Dual Hi Lo Wall Mount drinking fountain.

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

6. Universally-accessible Directional and Interpretive Signage

Universally accessible signage would be installed at key pedestrian junctures and interpretive areas. All signs will be designed to visually display information using large print and pictures and Braille lettering at a height and angle that is conducive to users with a variety of abilities. A directional sign would be installed at the pedestrian bridge entrance from the Paint Creek Trail. See directional sign concept on drawing sheet 6. This sign would direct users to both the fishing access and the support facilities. An audio interpretive sign will be located on the pathway between the pedestrian bridge and the platform overlooking Paint Creek. It will interpret Paint Creek’s habitats, flora and fauna and will also include auditory information. See included specifications for the Digital SoundPost System that would be used for this interpretive sign. Another interpretive sign will also be located on the platform overlooking Paint Creek.

7. Permits

Oakland Township will obtain the following required permits for this project: Wetland and Floodplain Joint Permit from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Soil Erosion from the Oakland County Water Resources Commission, and Building and Plumbing permits from the Oakland Township Building Department.

B. Project Location Choice and Compatibility with Site Characteristics

1. Pedestrian Bridge

The proposed bridge, located 350’ south of Gallagher Road, will provide a much safer alternative to the current route that pedestrians and bicyclists use to travel between the Paint Creek Trail and the Paint Creek Cider Mill. Currently trail users are forced to share Gallagher Road, a popular east-west collector road, with motorized vehicles in order to travel to or from the Paint Creek Cider Mill. The proposed pedestrian bridge will provide trail users with a direct connection, separate from any roadway, between these two desirable destinations.

According to a study done by Michigan State University in 2004, this proposed location for the pedestrian bridge is along one of the busiest segments of the Paint Creek Trail. This study estimated approximately 300 daily trail uses during May through September on this segment located between Gallagher Road and Tienken Road. Since the Paint Creek Cider Mill houses the only restaurant facility along the 6+ mile stretch of the Paint Creek Trail between Rochester and Lake Orion, this is already a popular destination for trail users. Many trail users spend money at area restaurants or convenience stores during their trail use and this proposed connection should increase trail user patronage of such enterprises.

In the near term the construction of the pre-fabricated steel truss pedestrian bridge will facilitate a connection between the Paint Creek Trail, the new fishing access and support facilities at the Paint Creek Cider Mill. In the longer term this pedestrian bridge will facilitate connections between the Paint

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

Creek Trail and Oakland Township’s local non-motorized network, including proposed pathways along Gallagher Road and along Collins Road.

2. Paint Creek Fishing Access

Paint Creek, a tributary of the Clinton River, is well known for the exceptional trout fishing opportunities it provides. Annual stocking and natural reproduction have resulted in this creek’s sizeable brown trout population.

The Paint Creek Trail is featured in the attached Fisherman’s Guide to Paint Creek as the primary pedestrian access route to the Paint Creek for fishing purposes. This proposed new fishing platform’s location on the edge of Paint Creek, directly accessible from the Paint Creek Cider Mill parking lot or the Paint Creek Trail pedestrian bridge, provides optimal access regardless of ability or transportation mode. This fishing platform would provide new access to Paint Creek as currently there is no ADA accessible fishing facility on this stretch of Paint Creek and very limited interpretive signage.

This site is appropriate for the construction of a new fishing facility because of its accessibility, the high quality fish habitat, existing fishing popularity, and minimal site impact. Representatives of the Clinton River Watershed Council suggested this fishing access location because of their knowledge of the high quality fish habitat and the desire for better fishing access at this location.

3. Vault Toilets and Drinking Fountains

The Michigan State University study found that the greatest source of dissatisfaction for Paint Creek Trail users is the lack of comfort facilities, citing bathrooms and drinking fountains as the single most important improvement for the Paint Creek Trail. It was also noted that this need is the most important in the middle sections of the trail where there are fewer places to gain access to bathrooms and drinking water.

In the middle sections of the Paint Creek Trail, between Rochester and Orion Township, the only nearby public restrooms are located inside Oakland Township municipal buildings and therefore unavailable outside the Township’s hours of operation, which are typically 8am – 4:30 pm Monday through Friday. Since the Paint Creek Trail hours of operation are from 6:00 am through 10:00 pm daily there is a need to provide support facilities with much longer hours of operation.

The proposed vault restrooms and outdoor drinking fountains will be available to the public during all the trail’s hours of operation and are both directly accessible from the Paint Creek Cider Mill parking lot or the Paint Creek Trail pedestrian bridge.

C. Universal Access Design Features

The following universal access design features of this project’s pedestrian bridge, access routes, fishing/nature observation access platform, restrooms and drinking fountains, and signage and exceed minimal ADA requirements in the following ways:

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

The access routes between proposed facilities will have the following universal access design features:

 5-12’ wide routes where two people can move side by side or pass each other  Unitary concrete, asphalt, brick paver or crushed aggregate surface for all access routes  Transition plate between concrete pathway and pedestrian bridge for permanent smooth transition  Adherence to reduced cross-slope (maximum of 1%)  Adherence to gentle running slopes less than 5%  Contrasting colored pavement and detectable warning plate at intersection to cue people with vision impairments that there is something to pay attention to at this locations

The pedestrian bridge will have the following universal access design features:

 12’ width where two pedestrians or bicyclists could move side by side or pass each other  Transition plate between concrete pathway and pedestrian bridge for permanent smooth transition  Adherence to gentle running slopes less than 5%  Adherence to reduced cross-slope (maximum of 1%)

The Fishing/Nature Observation Access platform will have the following universal access design features:

 Transition plate between concrete pathway and fishing platform for permanent smooth transition  The entire “fishable” area of the platform will have rails lowered to 33” height, including the 10’ side parallel to the Paint Creek and then about 4’ wrapping around each side of the platform closest to the stream  Viewing rails added on east and west sides of platform to provide open viewing area between 32” and 44” in height for easy viewing opportunities  Fishing platform has a sitting bench with back and arm rest  Tackle box stand next to bench on fishing platform  Two fish landing cutaways along water side of 33” high fishing railing  Fishing pole holders will be provided along the fishing rail  Location of bench on fishing platform accommodates two wheelchairs (side by side)

The Restrooms and Drinking Fountains will have the following universal access design features:

 More than minimum number of accessible units – both restrooms are accessible  Both restrooms are unisex/single user restroom units  Both restrooms are located equidistantly between desirable destinations including the Paint Creek Trail, Paint Creek Cider Mill and the proposed fishing access platform  Both restrooms have accessible door pulls and deadbolts  Both restrooms have 18” high ADA toilet riser with stainless steel grab bars  Both restrooms are accessible with 60” turning radius, facilitating individual or assisted use  Drinking fountains’ mushroom style push bars are operable with one hand  The drinking fountains will be mounted at two different heights; 32” and 40” to accommodate a variety of ages and abilities

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

The Directional and Interpretive Signage will have the following universal access design features:

 Braille lettering will be used on all proposed signage  All signage will be positioned perpendicular to the path of travel at a height and angle which will be easily read by most users  All signs will be designed to visually display information using large print and pictures to be easily understood  Directional signs will have raised letters of contrasting color to better communicate  Interpretive signage will incorporate a variety of alternative formats including assistive listening devices such as prerecorded auditory information and tactile maps  Interpretive sign located at entrance to fishing access will inform users that fishing area railing includes both 4’ and 33” height railings

D. Environmentally friendly/innovative technology

The proposed project area’s native vegetation and water courses will be protected during this project’s planning, design, development, and operation. The proposed pedestrian bridge completely spans the Paint Creek watercourse, floodway and floodplain. There will be no impact to the creek or floodplain. Wetland and stream habitat, and the wildlife utilizing these resources, will not be disturbed.

Access routes are located in level areas adjacent to existing parking lot, avoiding the need for extensive earthwork or intrusion into the creek side vegetation.

Lumber made of recycled plastic composites will be used at the fishing platform area in lieu of pressure- treated lumber.

The prerecorded auditory information on the interpretive sign will be powered by solar energy through a separate solar panel.

The exhaust fans for the restrooms will be powered by solar energy through a separate solar panel.

E. Balance of Public Access/ Minimization of Environmental Impact

The impact of this proposed fishing/nature observation access to Paint Creek will be reduced through the design, location and monitoring of the new access. The location and design of the ramp and platform encourages access by assistive mobility device, foot or bicycle, since it is directly accessible from both a parking lot and a regional trailway.

In addition to facilitating creek access, this platform will direct fisher people to this one access site; greatly reducing ad hoc trails which can lead to increased vegetation trampling and streamside erosion in the Paint Creek floodplain. There would be no direct access to the ground or the water from the fishing platform since the platform is elevated.

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

To ensure sustainability of the creek’s fishery, fish populations will be inventoried and monitored by MDNR fish biologists and representatives of the Clinton River Watershed Council. Oakland Township will adhere to the MDNR recommendations concerning the most appropriate types and methods of fishing that should be encouraged at this location.

F. Organizations that will assist in the operation or maintenance of the Project

This new fishing/nature observation access site will provide new nature interpretation and environmental education programming opportunities for both the Clinton River Watershed Council and three local chapters of Trout Unlimited including Vanguard, Clinton Valley and Challenge Chapters.

The Clinton River Watershed Council would use this site as a location for their Adopt-a-Stream program and their Stream Leaders volunteer water quality monitoring program. In these environmental education programs students and CRWC volunteers learn about the watershed’s characteristics and its aquatic inhabitants. They use this knowledge to sample, test and record the water's physical habitat, biological community, and channel characteristics such as erosion and the amount of streamside vegetation. This site would also provide a site location for the Clinton River Cold Water Conservation Project . CRWC partners with Trout Unlimited and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources on this project to explore opportunities to enhance the Clinton River and tributaries, as an urban trout fishery. This site would be an inventory location as well as potential access for habitat improvement areas. Please see the attached descriptions of these programs.

G. Project Promotion Methods

When this pedestrian bridge, fishing access and support facilities are opened to the public there will be an opening celebration that will be widely advertised in the media across the region. Moreover, each of the collaborating organizations, including the Paint Creek Trail Commission, Clinton River Watershed Council and Trout Unlimited will also be publicizing the availability of programs at these new facilities to their respective target audiences through their websites and newsletters. The opening of these facilities could also be tied into the Paint Creek Trail’s National Trail Day events or the MDNR’s Summer Free Fishing Weekend.

Afterwards, this project’s new programming and facilities, including the universal attributes of this project, will be specifically promoted in quarterly Oakland Township municipal newsletters; the safety path and trail network pages of the Township website; Oakland Township’s public access cable TV channel; and at special events including our fall festival and summer concerts. These outlets will feature this project and encourage people with disabilities to use the accessible recreation facilities and to participate in the environmental education or nature programs.

H. Crime Prevention/Safety Measure

The combination of this project’s suitable location, preventative design and demand for the proposed recreation facilities will create a popular and safe environment for all users.

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

By constructing this pedestrian trail connection separate from Gallagher Road, a busy east-west corridor in Oakland Township, it will be safer for pedestrians and bicyclists to travel between the Paint Creek Trail and the Paint Creek Cider Mill. This pedestrian bridge will provide a completely separated right of way for the exclusive use of bicycles and pedestrians with cross flow minimized.

Safety and crime prevention starts with the appropriate design, location, and management and operation of recreation improvements. This project’s proximity to a popular regional trail, restaurant, municipal offices, and residential neighborhoods combined with its visibility from Orion Road, a busy north-south corridor, supports natural surveillance of the pedestrian bridge, restrooms and fishing access. Moreover, the nearby location of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Substation also facilities the deputies’ regular surveillance of the project area too.

The fishing platform will be designed to sit above maximum 100 year flood stage and 5’ above the average water level. This will ensure safe fishing access in the springtime when Paint Creek’s height and volume are greatest.

I. Trail Destinations/Links and Proposed Trail Design Standards

In the near term, the construction of the pedestrian bridge will facilitate a connection between the Paint Creek Trail, the new fishing/nature observation access, and support facilities at the Paint Creek Cider Mill. In the longer term this pedestrian bridge will facilitate connections between the Paint Creek Trail and Oakland Township’s non-motorized network, including proposed pathways along Gallagher Road and along Collins Road.

The 2004 Michigan State University study found that the greatest source of dissatisfaction for Paint Creek Trail users is the lack of comfort facilities, citing bathrooms and drinking fountains as the single most important improvement for the Paint Creek Trail. This pedestrian bridge will provide a completely separated right of way for the exclusive use of bicycles and pedestrians to safely reach much needed support facilities located at the Paint Creek Cider Mill.

The 2004 Paint Creek Trail Survey also stressed the need to create better non-motorized connections from the Paint Creek Trail to nearby residential areas as this could boost trail use for better connections to businesses where trail users might work or shop. The Paint Creek Trail 2004 survey data shows that the primary purpose of the 66,000+ annual trail uses was for exercise or recreation but that 5% of uses had a primary purpose of transportation to work, school or other locations. Studies have proven that where the connectivity of existing non-motorized facilities is improved, the level of use does increase. Non-motorized transportation use within the project area could be increased if there was greater connectivity between the Paint Creek Trail, residential areas, other activity centers and other non- motorized corridors.

The 2004 Paint Creek Trail user survey indicated that the typical trip length for the trail's walkers and bicyclists was between two and eight miles in length. The majority of trail users enter the trail somewhere along the 6+ mile stretch between Tienken Road and Clarkston Road intersections. Given a trail user’s typical trip length and typical segment traveled, many of them will travel by this proposed

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

pedestrian connection to the Paint Creek Cider Mill. Moreover, this new connection also sets the stage for future connection to nearby recreation facilities such as Bear Creek Nature Park, retail and service areas such as Goodison Station, and schools such as Baldwin Elementary, to which the project area population could regularly travel.

The Paint Creek Trail Connection to the Paint Creek Cider Mill will help reduce gaps between this regional non-motorized transportation corridor and local bicycle and pedestrian facilities. The Oakland Township Trails and Pathways Master Plan shows a proposed safety path on Gallagher Road, leading path users towards the Paint Creek Trail and the Goodison area where Gallagher, Orion and Collins roads converge. Design Recommendation #1 of the Goodison Sub Area Plan illustrates how this project’s proposed pedestrian bridge is integral to a safer and more functional vehicular and pedestrian circulation pattern.

The design of the access routes and pedestrian bridge will adhere to and surpass the outdoor developed area accessibility guidelines under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

J. Population Service Area Description and Justification

This project’s connection with a regional rail trail will have a population service area of 132,906 that extends beyond the boundaries of Oakland Township.

The Michigan State University study of trailway use stated that a majority of the Paint Creek Trail uses were by people living two miles or less from the trail, which would include the four communities that jointly own and oversee the Paint Creek Trail. The total population (according to the 2010 census) of the four communities through which the trail traverses, including Oakland Township (16,779), Rochester Hills (70,995), Rochester (12,711) and Orion Township (32,421), is 132,906.

Based upon the Michigan State University study, the typical use of the Paint Creek Trail involved 2.7 segments of the five segment areas studied. To reach the project location near Gallagher Road using an average of 2.7 segments, this project’s service area would need to extend from the Rochester Main Street Bridge to the northern end of the trail in Lake Orion. If one divides 2.7 into the study’s total estimate of 132,900 uses for this project area during the May 1 to September 30th time period, this project area’s total use during those five months is 49, 222. Since this trail is open during all four seasons it can be very popular in April, if there is an early spring and in October while the cider mills are still operating; therefore the total use number would definitely be larger.

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

III. Natural Resource Access and Protection

A. Natural Features of Project Site, Recreation Opportunities Provided and Site Management for Maintenance of Natural Features

1. First Universally Accessible Fishing Access on 6-mile stretch of Paint Creek

This project’s fishing facility; the first accessible fishing facility on this stretch of Paint Creek, will provide creek access to people with a wide variety of abilities and interests including fishing, nature observation, environmental education or relaxation. This platform will provide visitors with a safe opportunity to fish within walking or bicycling distance of nearby trails or neighborhoods. This goal is consistent with the MDNR objective of improving public access to lakes and streams by pursuing additional public access opportunities (MDNR 2006 Clinton River Assessment, p.60).

Paint Creek, the highest quality trout steam in southeast Michigan, is a top-quality coldwater stream located in northeast Oakland County that originates at Lake Orion and flows in a southeastern direction until it enters the Clinton River in Rochester (a distance of 15 miles). The creek has been annually stocked with brown trout since 1953 and natural trout reproduction has been documented in much of the stream1. Please see the attached Paint Creek Trout Survey data, spanning from 1967 through the present, which was furnished by Jim Francis, MDNR Fisheries Biologist. In addition, pages 196-7of the MDNR Clinton River Assessment describe fish species collected in 2001/2002 in the Paint Creek and page 215 describes the species and quantity of fish that have been stocked there historically. This data shows that the number and size of trout in Paint Creek continues to be as good as it has ever been in the past.

Regarding the proposed fishing access location, trout have been caught in this area south of the Gallagher Road bridge. Fish are known to congregate in this area as the creek’s water depth, shade, water temperature, sandy bottom and good flow in this location are ideal for trout fishing. The proposed fishing location has tree galleries that provide significant shade which retains the cold water temperature that the trout favor and the proposed pedestrian walkway will also provide additional shade in this access area too. Paint Creek is more than twenty feet wide where the platform will be located, providing ample water volume and velocity to support trout passage. This fishing access will be most popular in springtime when Paint Creek’s height and volume are greatest. The fishing platform will be designed to sit above maximum 100 year flood stage and 5’ above the average water level.

Footnote 1: Lake Erie Management Unit Fisheries Newsletter, January 2012, p.8-9

2. Universally Accessible Nature Observation and Interpretation

Paint Creek is described as being as good as, or better than, any other river in the Clinton River watershed for hiking, biking, and nature viewing (MDNR 2006 Clinton River Assessment, p.52). The proposed bridge and nature observation platform will provide opportunities to observe some of the 12 fish species, 42 reptile and amphibian species, 125 species of breeding birds, and 42 species of mammals

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

that populate the Clinton River Watershed. Please see the attached species lists on pages 205-209 of the June 2006 Clinton River Assessment created by the Fisheries Division of the MDNR.

Paint Creek is also categorized as a Michigan Natural Features Inventory Priority Two Natural Area containing unique flora and fauna. These are described on attached pages 83-88 of the Stony/Paint Creek Subwatershed Management Plan, and include deer, songbirds, beaver, muskrat and red fox that find food, shelter and breeding grounds here.

Interpretive signage will be located at the Paint Creek scenic viewing/nature observation platform, immediately south of the pedestrian bridge, to describe the creek’s habitats and the wildlife that inhabit them. A bench will be located in this area to facilitate nature observation and education. Please see included photos.

The project’s vegetation management would only address plants that would be an impediment to the use or maintenance of the trail and boardwalk areas. This maintenance would be restricted to tree and shrub pruning or invasive plant removal within the trail and boardwalk shoulder areas.

B. Funding Availability for development, operation and maintenance of the proposed project

A combination of the Charter Township of Oakland’s Trails System Millage ($250,000 annually) and a portion of its General Fund millage ($87,000) will provide necessary funding for the design, engineering, construction, operation and maintenance of this project which would become part of the Township’s non-motorized network.

In the attached Oakland Township 2011 Financial Audit please see the balance sheets on pages 39 and 47 which show that the proposed $87,700 of Township matching funds are currently available in the Trails Improvement Fund balance of $903,140 and in the General Fund balance of $4,110,465. After approval, an Oakland Township Board of Trustees Resolution will be attached, committing to financing matching funds of $87,700 for this project.

A Trail and Path Committee composed of representatives from the Oakland Township Board of Trustees, Planning Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission and Township staff make recommendations to the Board of Trustees, who is responsible for managing these millage funds. The Township's trail staff consists of a trails planner who oversees the acquisition of property, the construction of paths and trails, and their operation and maintenance. This staff person is assisted by the Township's community planning, engineering and environmental consultants.

Oakland Township 2012 MNRTF Development Grant Application Paint Creek Trail Connection to Historic Cider Mill, Fishing Platform and Restrooms (4/2/12)

The $4,200 annual operation and maintenance cost estimate for this project would fund the following tasks: safety inspection and repair of paths and boardwalks (as required); vegetation maintenance within path and boardwalk shoulder areas; spring and fall maintenance of water fountains, 3x yearly pumping/cleaning of restroom vaults, weekly cleaning of restrooms, and provision of restroom supplies including toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

C. Rights in Land to be Acquired and Ability to Manage and Provide Public Recreation

The Charter Township of Oakland would be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the completed project. The only portion of the project that is not located on Township-owned property is the western half of the pedestrian bridge. This area, which is owned by the Paint Creek Trailways Commission, will be committed to a perpetual easement that will be granted to Oakland Township under which the Township will agree to assume total responsibility for the operation, maintenance, repair and restoration of the facilities located within the easement area. A Paint Creek Trailways Commission Resolution will commit to executing this trail easement that would devote that area to this purpose. Oakland Township currently manages its geographic section of the Paint Creek Trailway so this project would be a small addition to the Township’s current responsibilities.

IV. Other Information

Not Applicable