EASTHAMPTON

2019 HOUSING CHOICE CAPITAL GRANT

BIKE SHARE Bike Share Easthampton Introduction The primary objective of this funding is to allow the City of Easthampton to rapidly deploy bike share in conjunction with the recent launch of a bike share program in five nearby municipalities. We are requesting $250,000 for the creation of five bike share locations within the City and deploy approximately 36 new electric assist bike share bicycles. The funding will allow the City to become a member of the existing five town consortium and the regional ValleyBike Share Program. The grant will cover the full cost of all construction, docking equipment, bicycles, and wayfinding, and which can be completed by June 2019. Operating costs for the program will be funded through local and regional sponsorships in line with the program established through the existing vendor and existing ValleyBike share program. The funding will allow the City to deploy the following:

2

3

36

City of Easthampton – 2019 Housing Choice Capital Grant – Bike Share The communities of Amherst, Holyoke, Northampton, South Hadley, and Springfield, along with the University of Massachusetts and the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission have contracted a collaboration and partnership with Bewegen Technologies and Corps Logistics to bring bike share to our region. The Pioneer Valley’s program is designed to promote short bike trips within core communities, where clusters of large employers, colleges, shopping, tourist destinations and residents can readily be connected. The City of Easthampton is supported in this request by the City of Northampton (Mayor and Planning and Sustainability Director) who is the lead municipality for the ValleyBike Share program and the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce. Those letters are attached. In addition, the existing ValleyBike vendor has expressed support in expanding their services to Easthampton and the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, who secured the original grant for the initial launch fully supports Easthampton’s efforts and will work with us on implementation before June 2019. We strongly believe there is a direct connection between economic development and housing. We have seen a trend where more and more Easthampton residents are obtaining goods, services, and entertainment in their own City. Also, while likely not unique, Easthampton has seen an influx of resident-owned businesses. Some of the most popular business along the bike path (and in the City generally) are owned by residents. The owners and the employees have observed the higher quality of life and relative affordability and have chosen to reside and work in Easthampton. The opportunities for bike share to help support visitors and tourism can have the effect of supporting existing and new businesses. If those business owners and employees live in Easthampton, then we will be supporting a stronger housing market and demand. Project need Biking as Economic Development The City currently bolsters a popular set of activities available from the existing Manhan Rail Trail. From breweries to bagels, from the mills to the meadows, the rail trail has become a concentrated hub of activity for a wide range of bike users; from residents, visitors, families, students, and others. The direct connection of the bike path to Northampton and beyond to Amherst both of which launched bike share a few months ago - make Easthampton a logical choice to expand the recently launched ValleyBike-Share program. As part of goals identified in the Master Plan and Open Space and Recreation Plan, supporting and broadening activity on the bike path, b) expanding its use by a wider range of people, and c) creating linkages to existing parks and neighborhoods were identified as key goals and objectives. Interestingly, the advent of bike share is more recent than both the 2013 and 2008 Master Plan and therefore was not listed as a specific option to help accomplish these goals. We believe that an Easthampton bike share program can increase access to recreation by a diversity of users and be a catalyst to energize other bike-related initiatives in the City. Excerpts from the Master Plan and Open Space Plan are included at the end of the proposal.

City of Easthampton – 2019 Housing Choice Capital Grant – Bike Share The Planning Department believes that implementation of bike share now, can coincide with and compliment a planned MassDOT 2021 TIP project along Union Street. That full reconstruction project will include bike amenities including a bike lane, sharrows, and an enhanced crosswalk over the busiest portion of the Manhan Rail Trail. The inclusion of bike amenities in line with the Commonwealth’s Complete Streets policies has been identified as goal for the downtown since 2010 and supports the broader community goals of increase bicycle opportunities in Easthampton. Access for diverse groups to Outdoor Recreation The awareness and popularity the path has increased tremendously. It has created a unique set of activities accessible to visitors and has the ability to support and sustain existing economic development activity and creates an easy link between the Downtown and the prospering Mill District. Supports a broader initiative We believe that this funding can initiate a broader set up community goals related to biking. Earlier this year the City of Easthampton became a Bike To Work community, the Mayor’s from both Easthampton and Northampton participated in a North to East Bike Trail Parade (to promote the connection between the two cities), and the City of Easthampton has begun to consider a feasibility study of extending the bike path from the Downtown to a newly designed K-8 school. We believe that supporting this bike share will allow Easthampton to provide a more diverse set of the experiences for residents and visitors which are free and exciting recreational opportunities along the bike path. Project Readiness The project would commence upon award of the grant because Easthampton can participate in the existing five town consortium and contract with the existing vendor. The project timeline is approximately as follows: . July, 2018 – Housing Choice Capital Grant application . September, 2018 – notice of grant award . October/November, 2018 – City and State contract preparation . November/December, 2018 – City and vendor contract preparation . October-December, 2018 – Final planning outreach and site selection . January -February, 2019 – Final construction planning schedule and logistic . February-June, 2019 – Construction and installation of bike share equipment; program launch The project schedule includes an opportunity for refinement of site selection and some community outreach. Where a non-city owner location is highly preferred, locations will only be chosen in partnership with the private property owner. As proposed herein, all sites are under municipal ownership.

City of Easthampton – 2019 Housing Choice Capital Grant – Bike Share Financial Feasibility The project would be fully funded through the Housing Choice Capital Grant program. The ability to utilize the existing vendor and pricing proposal implemented by the five town consortium enables the City to provide an accurate project budget. The budget for the project is as follows:

EASTHAMPTON BIKE SHARE UNITS PRICE PER UNIT TOTAL ELECTRIC ASSIST BICYCLES 40 36.00 $3,789 $136,404 250 watt nominal DynaMe motor 660 watt lithium-ion Battery BikeEmotion Module Standard Basket Internal Brakes 8-Speed Internal Gear Hub Customized Paint w/ Branding RECHARGING DOCKS 60 75 $525 $39,375 SmartRail Techonolgy Dock Housing Charger Wire Harness

KIOSKS / PAYMENT TERMINAL / AD PANEL 2 $12,777 $25,554 Kiosk Housing & Components Retro-lit Wayfinding Panel Retro-lit Advertising Panel

WAYFINDING & ADVERTISING PANEL 2 3 $7,600 $22,800 Kiosk Housing & Components Retro-lit Wayfinding Panel Retro-lit Advertising Panel

DIRECT TO GRID STATIONS 0 2 $2,400 $4,800 Direct to Grid Connections

PLANNING (Per Station) Travel Expenses Other Expenses 4 5 $2,000 10,000

INSTALLATION (Per Station) 4 5 $1,958 $9,790 Travel Expenses Other Expenses (Truck, Tools, Etc)

CAPITAL TOTALS $248,723

City of Easthampton – 2019 Housing Choice Capital Grant – Bike Share Potential locations We have provided viable options for locations for each of the five bike share locations. However, in some cases the potential location may require shifting or relocation to accommodate in the field verifications related to accessibility and/or power sources. In considering the listed locations, we have had consultations with the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission and considered options that would be most likely to link and/or provide access to public transportation, parking, and/or overall visibility to tourists or visitors. If awarded, the City and other stakeholders would confirm the most viable and workable locations to meet these goals. In addition, we would work with the vendor to prepare locations schematics to confirm all elements prior to installation. This was done in other communities as part of the initial ValleyBike launch. The following represent the proposed five city-owned locations:

City of Easthampton – 2019 Housing Choice Capital Grant – Bike Share #1 CITY HALL

POTENTIAL LOCATION #2 UNION STREET

POTENTIAL LOCATION #3 OLD TOWN HALL

POTENTIAL LOCATION #4MILLSIDE PARK #5 HIGH SCHOOL

POTENTIAL LOCATION Easthampton Bike Share ® Easthampton, MA 1 inch = 1075 Feet July 26, 2018 www.cai-tech.com 0 1075 2151 3226

Data shown on this map is provided for planning and informational purposes only. The municipality and CAI Technologies are not responsible f or any use f or other purposes or misuse or misrepresentation of this map. Housing Choice Capital Grant Evaluation Criteria FY 2019 The following responses (in RED) were prepared by the Planning Department to provide an initial assessment of the project and the grant criteria. The written narrative sections are the same text submitted in the online application form. Supporting material for the bonus questions have been uploaded into the online application form: Project Need (maximum total 33 points) (25) Project need is scored based on demonstration of one or more of the following: 1. A legally mandated basis for the project, for example, a consent decree, noncompliance with accessibility standards, health, safety, or code violations; or ADA accessibility related repairs for housing related projects (33 points)

2. Project is included in an adopted capital improvements plan, capital expenditures plan or ADA self-evaluation and transition plan or Project included in strategic plan (housing, economic development, municipal management) or other adopted method of identifying the particular project as a priority for the applicant community (25 Points) YES 3. Other municipally identified and documented, capital projects needed related to your community's increase in housing units/residents over the last 5 years (20 points) 4. Other municipally identified and documented, capital projects (15 points) Project Readiness (maximum total 33 points) (33) Readiness will be scored based on demonstration of one or more of the following: 1. Project will commence upon award using established purchasing consortia, municipal material and equipment bid results or other immediately available sources for capital items and the project has complete design and/or specifications and will proceed to bid upon grant award (up to 33 points) YES 2. The project is eligible for feasibility, design and/or engineering services by a contractor already under contract with the applicant (up to 25 points) 3. For real estate acquisition projects, the applicant has site control (an executed purchase and sale agreement, option, or right of first refusal) (up to 20 points) 4. Project bid specification preparation or consultant selection RFP process will commence upon award OR property acquisition project where further action(s) are needed to secure site control (up to 15 points) Financial Feasibility (maximum total 20 points) (20) Financial Feasibility will be scored based on demonstration of one or more of the following: 1. The project request fully funds the project or fills the last funding gap in an otherwise fully- funded project (20 points) YES

City of Easthampton – 2019 Housing Choice Capital Grant – Bike Share 2. The project requests a portion of the funds necessary to complete the project and evidence of other grant applications and potential award schedule is provided (10 points) 3. Project request includes an approved draft warrant article or recommended community preservation funds request to pursue remaining funding with a funding award schedule, with alternative sources identified, that allows for completion by June 30, 2019 (5 points) 4. The project includes more than 10% local match in funding (5 points)

Base Score: Best Practices Criteria (up to 14 points) (7) Best Practices scoring in the Base Score is based whether your community meets Housing Choice Best Practices. Best Practices related to Affordable Housing are worth 2 points and other Best Practices are worth 1 point. This is Yes/No scoring (have achieved the Best Practice or not).

1. Designated local resources for housing such as established an Affordable Housing Trust, donated land, or appropriated substantial CPC funds for community housing [Affordable Category] YES (2)

2. Selected a housing best practice as part of its Community Compact

3. Have units currently eligible for inclusion in the Subsidized housing Inventory (SHI) that equal or exceed 10% of total year round housing units [Affordable Category]

4. Have adopted zoning that allows mixed use or cluster development by right (or can demonstrate a consistent pattern over the last 5 years of approving such developments) YES (1)

5. Have zoning that allows for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by right (or can demonstrate a consistent pattern over the last 5 years of approving ADUs) YES (1)

6. Have inclusionary zoning that provides for reasonable density increases so that housing is not unreasonably precluded [Affordable Category]

7. Have an approved 40R district, Starter Home District, Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP) or have adopted an Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing District (UCH-TIF) [Affordable Category] YES (2)

8. Have at least one zoning district that allows multifamily by right with capacity to add units and that allows for family housing (greater than 2 bedrooms) YES (1)

City of Easthampton – 2019 Housing Choice Capital Grant – Bike Share BONUS Points for Implementation of Housing Choice Best Practices (25) (text inserted into online application)

In addition to the Base Score, additional points will be awarded for implementation of 8 of the Housing Choice Best Practices. This is qualitative scoring, with up to 5 points for each Best Practice, for a total possible 40 bonus points.

1. Designated local resources for housing such as established an Affordable Housing Trust, donated land, or appropriated substantial CPC funds for community housing [Affordable Category] YES, we believe we are eligible for five points. The City of Easthampton has appropriated substantial Community Preservation Act Funds for community and affordable housing projects. Since its adoption in 2001 the City has spent a total of $6,228,000 with a $1,111,905 (or 17.9%) spent on housing. This includes supporting the creation of 38 new affordable units in 2010 and supporting the creation of 50 new affordable units in 2012. This also includes funding for Housing Rehabilitation of existing affordable units, first time homebuyers programs, and accessibility improvements.

Additional documentation is uploaded, including a housing expenditure tracking spreadsheet and Supplemental Appropriate Request documentation.

2. Selected a housing best practice as part of its Community Compact

3. Have units currently eligible for inclusion in the Subsidized housing Inventory (SHI) that equal or exceed 10% of total year round housing units [Affordable Category]

4. Have adopted zoning that allows mixed use or cluster development by right (or can demonstrate a consistent pattern over the last 5 years of approving such developments) YES, we believe we are eligible for five points. The ability for the City to support mixed use housing by right in the 40R district will be essential in the creation of new housing units over the next several years. Additional mixed use projects are being encouraged in the district. For example, the 40R district includes two elementary school properties that will become surplus in the next 3-4 years and planning efforts for their reuse are about to begin with the potential for the creation of new units within the existing school buildings or as part of a redevelopment project.

5. Have zoning that allows for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by right (or can demonstrate a consistent pattern over the last 5 years of approving ADUs) YES, we believe we are eligible for five points. The City Planning staff and Zoning Board of Appeals have been supportive of applicants seeking accessory units. Of the four submitted in the past several years, all four have been approved and been built as new units.

City of Easthampton – 2019 Housing Choice Capital Grant – Bike Share 6. Have inclusionary zoning that provides for reasonable density increases so that housing is not unreasonably precluded [Affordable Category]

7. Have an approved 40R district, Starter Home District, Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP) or have adopted an Urban Center Housing Tax Increment Financing District (UCH-TIF) [Affordable Category] YES, we believe we are eligible for five points. The City was approved by DHCD for the 40R District in 2009. The City has recently approved a 50 unit affordable housing project within an existing downtown mill (currently occupied) and permitted (in 2017) a three story, 18 unit market rate mixed use building containing four affordable units. Both project are within the 40R district. Additional projects are being encouraged in the district.

Supporting narrative and Zoning Ordinance attached.

8. Have at least one zoning district that allows multifamily by right with capacity to add units and that allows for family housing (greater than 2 bedrooms) YES, we believe we are eligible for five points. We believe that Easthampton is poised to encourage and allow additional residential/multifamily projects because the 40R zoning is already in place. Planning staff and the community are generally supportive of potential new housing growth in the downtown area and existing mill district. These uses are encouraged to occur within this district and would be supported by existing infrastructure and through existing by right zoning. This increases the likelihood of new units being created over the next several years.

Supporting narrative and Zoning Ordinance attached.

City of Easthampton – 2019 Housing Choice Capital Grant – Bike Share

MAYOR DAVID J. NARKEWICZ City of Northampton 210 Main Street Room 12 Northampton, MA 01060-3199 (413) 587-1249 Fax: (413) 587-1275 [email protected]

July 25, 2018

Chris Kluchman, FAICP Housing Choice Program Director Department of Housing and Community Development 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 300 Boston, MA 02114

Dear Ms. Kluchman,

As the Mayor of Northampton, I strongly support the City of Easthampton’s request for funding to pay for the capital expenses necessary to join ValleyBike Share. Northampton is the lead community for grants and contracts for this new program recently launched in Amherst, Holyoke, Northampton, South Hadley, and Springfield. It has provided hundreds of bikes throughout the Pioneer Valley and represents a regional consortium of municipalities seeking to initiate a successful bike share experience.

The addition of bike share in Easthampton will complement Northampton’s efforts and help to highlight the connectivity of the two cities via the existing bike path. The ability for Easthampton to completely fund the costs of creating the bike share through the Housing Choice Capital Grant program will be further supported by the inclusion of Easthampton into the existing bike share procurement process and through the same vendor used by the existing participants.

Recently, both Mayor LaChapelle and I participated in the North to East Bike Trail Parade to promote the connection between the two cities. The Housing Choice Capital Grant opportunity further supports the mutually beneficial planning efforts between Easthampton and Northampton.

I urge you to consider funding this exciting new addition to the ValleyBike Share program in Western Massachusetts.

Sincerely,

David J. Narkewicz Mayor

Chris Kluchman, FAICP Housing Choice Program Director Department of Housing and Community Development 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 300 Boston, MA 02114

July 25, 2018

Dear Ms. Kluchman,

As the Director of Planning and Sustainability in Northampton, I strongly support the City of Easthampton’s request for funding for the capital expenses necessary to join ValleyBike Share. Northampton is the lead community for grants and contracts for this new program recently launched in Amherst, Northampton, Holyoke, South Hadley, and Springfield. The current program consists of 500 bicycles at 50 stations in these Pioneer Valley communities and represents a regional consortium of municipalities seeking to expand transportation alternatives between and within the Valley. Since the ValleyBike share rollout in June, there has already been a perceivable shift in transportation mode share.

Because Easthampton is an important economic player within our region, expanding bike share opportunities in Easthampton will provide synergy with the regional system, allowing multi-directional commuting and access for residents between our downtown centers. The ability for Easthampton to completely fund the costs of creating the bike share through the Housing Choice Capital Grant program will allow Easthampton to launch bike share quickly since it will become part of the established ValleyBike share procurement process utilizing the same vendor as the other system participants.

Finally, the bike path transportation connector between Northampton and Easthampton has continued to attract more use for residents and visitors in both communities. Funding to expand ValleyBike share to Easthampton through this grant will bolster this robust connection.

Sincerely,

Wayne Feiden, FAICP Director

EASTHAMPTON MASTER PLAN ers the opportunity to be compensated for the development value of their land by placing it in a binding restriction that prohibits all non‐ agricultural development and requires contin‐ ued agricultural use of the land in perpetuity. To date, the APR restriction has been used to permanently protect approximately 458 acres of farmland in the city. In recent years, funding for the APR program has been reduced.

In 2005, the Urban Rivers Vision Process recog‐ nized the importance of our mill ponds, cre‐ ated during the industrial revolution, as an im‐ portant part of the City’s heritage. Presently, they are experiencing a rebirth as recreation and open space assets. New amenities such as ball courts, a skate park, walking paths and amphitheater are planned or under construc‐ tion at the Lower Mill Pond Park. Nashawan‐ Manhan Rail Trail nuck Pond, a green sanctuary situated in the heart of the City, provides unique views of Old railroad beds, remnants of a defunct rail‐ Mount Tom and the Holyoke Range from the road system in the City were converted to a central business district. The pond presently popular bikeway known as the Manhan Rail accommodates the annual fishing derby and a Trail. This 4.2 mile (off‐road) paved trail was model boat racing event and is popular with completed in 2003, after 10 years of planning paddlers and fishermen. Benches for sitting and fundraising. A major portion of the trail and a wood platform at the edge of the pond has been constructed and offers many opportu‐ offer passive recreational opportunities. Other nities for non‐polluting accessibility to down‐ amenities such as a boardwalk with sitting ar‐ town, densely populated residential areas and eas and public paddle boat rentals have been the park system including the millponds. Fu‐ envisioned and discussed by the Mayor and ture plans call for the Rail Trail to be extended, City Council. Erosion and siltation controls, to connecting to Southampton and Northampton. enhance the environment in, and around the pond, have been installed in recent years. In The integration of Open Space with develop‐ 2008, portions of the pond will be dredged ments is regulated through the City of East‐ (with assistance from state and federal govern‐ hampton Zoning Bylaw. Recent efforts have ment grants) to improve water quality and been made to incorporate requirements and habitat. standards to provide higher quality living en‐

70 CHAPTER SIX: OPEN SPACE & NATURAL RESOURCES EASTHAMPTON MASTER PLAN received several grants over the past ten years including Katherine Root Park, John Bator Park to improve and clean up the pond for more and Plain and Strong Street Playground. A recreational opportunities. Lower Mill Pond, skate park, which was once located along located behind the Pleasant Street mills, has Lower Mill Pond, is now slated to be rebuilt by been the focus of a new park system, based on 2010. In 2004, the Manhan Rail Trail was com‐ the Urban Rivers visioning process in 2002. pleted, offering 4.2 miles of paved surface for Most recently, construction began on Lower biking, jogging, rollerblading, cross country Mill Pond Park, which now features basketball skiing and walking. This trail runs from South half‐courts, benches, fitness stations and green Street to Route 5 adjacent to East Street, and space. Future improvements include rest provides residents access to downtown, rooms and band shell. Upper Mill Pond, or schools, and municipal buildings. Future con‐ Rubber Thread Pond, runs through the Willis‐ struction will extend the trail to the town ton‐Northampton campus. Residents can catch boundary with Southampton town line, and to a glimpse of Upper Mill Pond at the John Bay‐ downtown Northampton. tor Park near the city offices, as well as from the Manhan Rail Trail. TRENDS AND DATA In addition to Nonotuck Park and the mill Recreation facilities and programs have ponds, the city provides several additional ac‐ changed over the years as the popularity of tive and passive recreational facilities. Other certain activities waxed and waned. For exam‐ smaller parks have been developed by the city ple, the explosion of youth soccer programs over the last decade necessitated the building

Table 7.1: Easthampton Recreation Facilities of more fields in Nonotuck Park. Some of these changes were controversial, such as the Property –name/owner Protection Acres Status cutting down of trees to make way for new soc‐ Mt. Tom State Reservation In Perpetuity 333.41 cer fields, which created concerns over the loss Boat Ramp In Perpetuity 1.38 of forest. Nonotuck Park In Perpetuity 113.38 Daley Field In Perpetuity 10.44 Socioeconomic pressures have also influenced Main St. Park In Perpetuity 0.52 changes. The availability of passive and active Katherine Root Conserva‐ In Perpetuity 28.10 recreational opportunities in general has be‐ tion Area Arcadia Wildlife In Perpetuity 43.43 come more important in the battle against obe‐ Brickyard Brook Cons. In Perpetuity 19.75 sity. According to the Center for Disease Con‐ Area trol and Prevention, since 1980, the percentage Camp Cook Limited 12.57 of children who are considered obese has in‐ Pleasant Green Limited 2.23 creased from 5% to 13% for children ages 2‐5; Parsons Street Park Limited 0.80 from 6.5% to 18% for children aged 6‐11; and White Brook Middle Limited 12.65 from 5% to 17.5% in children aged 12‐19. In School Town Beach Limited 1.19 addition, the high cost of gasoline and the pol‐

90 CHAPTER SEVEN: RECREATION EASTHAMPTON MASTER PLAN

Mural for the Manhan Rail Trail luting effects of traffic have spurred the need The Department received $80,000 of general for safe bicycling and walking paths. funds for capital improvements in FY 2006.

In response to these trends, the Recreation De‐ FUTURE OF RECREATION partment continues to increase its budget re‐ What lies ahead for the Recreation programs quest to meet the demands for upgraded and and facilities in Easthampton depends in large maintained recreational facilities. In FY 2007 part on how the residents and its elected offi‐ the Recreation Department recommended a cials prioritize available resources. budget of $77,189.60. This is a 10.5% increase from FY 2006. The Parks Department has a rec‐ When asked about the future of Nonotuck ommended budget of $167,107.00. This is a Park, for example, 81% of survey respondents 6.3% increase from FY 2006. Beyond the acqui‐ said they wanted to preserve, maintain and sition of a replacement pickup truck, the Parks protect natural resources there. Only 18.9% and Recreation Capital Improvements were said they would like to see the development of limited to those funded by grants and the additional recreational facilities. There seems Community Preservation Fund. Some of these to be strong support for passive recreation such improvements include a new restroom at as hiking, cross country skiing and walking Nonotuck Park, along with improved parking compared to active, organized sports. at the Little League facilities. New baseball field improvements are currently underway.

CHAPTER SEVEN: RECREATION 91 EASTHAMPTON MASTER PLAN

With this in mind, it is imperative to adopt a Our second challenge will be the battles waged management plan for all city parks so that the over land use, particularly development versus existing facilities can be maintained and to in‐ recreation and open space. Finding that all elu‐ sure that programs and facilities are responsive sive balance will no doubt be a difficult and to persons of all ages and abilities. That plan painful process, but it is a necessary one. We should include the expansion of current hiking must not only maintain our current facilities, trails in recently acquired conservation land. but take action to preserve land for future pas‐ Cemeteries, which also fall under the auspices sive recreation as well. of the Parks Department, should also be ade‐ quately funded and maintained. The third challenge is to help our city leaders realize the important role that recreation plays Connecting our recreational resources to our in our daily lives and specifically the quality of neighborhoods should also be a top priority. life in Easthampton. Recreation keeps us We must give residents a safe and easy way to healthy and happy and attracts workers, busi‐ walk or bike from their homes to the parks and ness owners and visitors. This in turn helps trails. This may mean repairing or building maintain a healthy economy. new sidewalks and bikeways. Future plans should also mandate the creation of a map and For example, land adjacent to the Manhan Rail signage showing all local hiking/walking/ Trail has increased in value and the path at‐ biking trails to make it easier for residents and tracts many out of town users who stop for a visitors to locate and access such facilities. bite to eat, or visit a local gallery. Likewise, the baseball and softball tournaments that are held The future may also mean more boating on the at our beautiful fields in Nonotuck Park, bring city’s waterways, with accessible boat ramps, visitors who stop for gas or snacks on their and continued efforts to clean up the ponds. way in or out of town. There is an opportunity And not to be forgotten, dog owners have re‐ to take some of this increased revenue to the quested the establishment of an enclosed dog city and use it to help maintain or expand both run. While Nonotuck Park in the off season has the park and the trail. become an unofficial dog park, it is important for the city to consider a permanent, year‐long Our opportunity then, is to take the momen‐ location. tum of this Master Plan project, mix it in with the excitement about Easthampton’s OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES “comeback” and create some real positive First, we must look beyond the most obvious changes. challenge which is funding. By prioritizing city revenues and seeking grants, most of the recommendations for recreation are fully at‐ tainable in the near future.

92 CHAPTER SEVEN: RECREATION EASTHAMPTON MASTER PLAN

GOALS AND STRATEGIES

Goal #1 Make connectivity a priority; give residents and visitors a safe easy way to walk or bike between trails, parks and downtown.

Strategy #1: Connect Nonotuck Park to Manhan Rail Trail

Action Steps Type: Non Regulatory Level of Priority: 1 Who Is Responsible: Parks and Recreation, Highway Dept. Resources Needed: Staff time Target Date for Completion: ASAP

Strategy #2: Connect Manhan Rail Trail to schools

Action Steps Type: Non Regulatory Level of Priority: 1 Who Is Responsible: Parks & Recreation, Highway Department. Resources Needed: Funding from Parks & Recreation, staff time from Highway Dept. Target Date for Completion: ASAP

Strategy #3: Create pedestrian and bike friendly routes to recreational facilities and services throughout city

Action Steps Type: Non Regulatory Level of Priority: 2 Who Is Responsible: Planning Department, Highway Department Resources Needed: Staff time from Planning Department, labor from Highway Department Target Date for Completion: 2013

Strategy #4: Connect Mt. Tom (along Hendrick Street) to Nonotuck Park

Action Steps Type: Non Regulatory Level of Priority: 2 Who Is Responsible: Parks & Recreation Resources Needed: Acquisition funds and volunteer time Target Date for Completion: 2010

CHAPTER SEVEN: RECREATION 93 EASTHAMPTON MASTER PLAN

Goal #2: Maintain and improve existing passive and active recreational facilities and continue to build on these as resources become available.

Strategy #1: Make conservation properties more accessible to the public where appropriate

Action Steps Type: Non Regulatory Level of Priority: 2 Who Is Responsible: Conservation Commission, Pascommuck Conservation Trust Resources Needed: Volunteer time Target Date for Completion: Ongoing

Strategy #2: Maintain Manhan Rail Trail (including addressing root problem) and extend the Manhan Rail Trail

Action Steps Type: Non Regulatory Level of Priority: 1 Who Is Responsible: Manhan Rail Trail Committee, Parks and Recreation, Highway Department Resources Needed: Funding and labor Target Date for Completion: Ongoing

Strategy #3: Add lighted softball field to Daily Field

Action Steps Type: Non‐ Regulatory Level of Priority: 1 Who Is Responsible: Parks & Recreation Resources Needed: Self‐Help funds Target Date for Completion: 2008

Strategy #4: Continue to maintain clay tennis courts

Action Steps Type: Non Regulatory Level of Priority: 2 Who Is Responsible: Parks & Recreation Resources Needed: Staff time Target Date for Completion: Ongoing

94 CHAPTER SEVEN: RECREATION EASTHAMPTON MASTER PLAN

Strategy #5: Repair pool at White Brook Middle School

Action Steps Type: Non Regulatory Level of Priority: 1 Who Is Responsible: School Department, City Council, Parks & Recreation Resources Needed: Municipal budget Target Date for Completion: ASAP

Strategy #6: Establish ‘Citizen Bicycling and Park Use Improvement Program’ which includes request forms (this successful Seattle program is described on page 20 of “Improving Conditions for Bicycling & Walking” by the Rails to Trails Conservancy and the Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals. It allows citizens to suggest low cost improvements to improve safety and access.)

Action Steps Type: Non Regulatory Level of Priority: 3 Who Is Responsible: Friends of the Manhan Rail Trail Resources Needed: Volunteer time Target Date for Completion: 2009

Goal #3: Maintain or expand the footprint of Nonotuck Park

Strategy #1: Identify and acquire lands adjacent to Nonotuck Park having potential recreational value

Action Steps Type: Non Regulatory Level of Priority: 1 Who Is Responsible: City Council Resources Needed: Funding from Community Preservation Act and Self‐ Help, fundraising efforts Target Date for Completion: 2008/09

Strategy #2: Link remaining open space areas of “Cernak property” to trail system on Nonotuck Park

Action Steps Type: Non‐Regulatory Level of Priority: 1 Who Is Responsible: Planning Department Resources Needed: Funding to purchase conservation restriction Target Date for Completion: 2015

CHAPTER SEVEN: RECREATION 95 Open Space

&

Recreation Plan 2013-2020 Easthampton Open Space and Recreation Plan 2013

SECTION 1: PLAN SUMMARY Easthampton is a small city, approximately 13 square miles with many natural amenities and resources. The City has a distinct development pattern that is reflective of the history of mill development in the community. The damming of Broad Brook by Samuel Williston in 1847 and 1859 to create Nashawannuck (Upper Mill) pond and Lower Mill Pond transformed Easthampton from a rural village to an industrial center. Easthampton exhibits three major characteristics: a dense mixed use center around the mill ponds, a protected eastern greenbelt that includes Arcadia Wildlife Refuge and Mount Tom, and a western agricultural zone with protected active farmland.

Since the development of the last Open Space and Recreation Plan in 2004, the City has achieved a long list of accomplishments for resource protection and recreational needs. Many of these successes were listed as goals and actions in the 2004 plan.

With the most recent review of Figure 1: View of Hampton Mills across Nashawannuck Pond our resource and community needs, there remain ongoing needs, such as continued preservation of our priority protection areas of Mount Tom, Manhan River, Park Hill agricultural area, and Barnes Aquifer. In addition to permanent protection of these natural resources, a new focus on long‐term stewardship of these parcels has become a priority. Baseline studies, conservation restriction monitoring, and trail maintenance on city‐owned parcels have been deferred for too long. Citizens are also unclear on the location of open space parcels that are open to the public and the types of activities that can occur on these sites. New stewardship activities by the City, land trust partners, and other volunteers can address these challenges.

Other challenges or needs identified by the community include the aging infrastructure of many of our parks, including Nonotuck Park. Only one playground has been redeveloped in the past 10 years, and there are many playgrounds that are in need of upgrades to address safety issues or make compliant with American Disabilities Act requirements. In addition, many of our protected open spaces either prohibit dogs altogether, or dogs off‐leash. Development of a dog park would address this need. City residents would also like to see more formalized boat facilities along Nashawannuck Pond to increase water‐based recreation within the downtown area. The beloved and highly used Manhan Rail Trail has been completed in Easthampton, with connections to Northampton and Southampton. The next step is to connect the trail to neighborhoods, parks, and schools through formal bike lanes and more sidewalks.

1 | Page

Easthampton Open Space and Recreation Plan 2013

SECTION 2: INTRODUCTION

A. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE The purpose of this plan is to inventory, assess, and plan for future open space and recreation resources. Through this process, we have identified existing and potential needs that are not currently being met or will not be met unless we start to address these short comings today (Appendix A: Action Plan Map). Our last OSRP was completed in 2004, and so much has happened in our City since that time. In the years since the last plan, Easthampton adopted a Master Plan in 2008 which created a community vision, identified community needs and opportunities, and outlined goals and strategies to implement the plan for ten topics (housing, economic development, open space & natural resources, recreation, cultural and historic resources, energy, transportation, public services & facilities, education, and land use). The following community vision statement was crafted by the Master Plan Committee to guide future decisions and policies for the City:

Easthampton is a model small city of the 21st century. It retains its mill town soul, while fostering innovation. Community members treasure the abundant resources, dynamic downtown, and vibrant neighborhoods. By adapting, evolving, and making tough choices, Easthampton is sustainable, inclusive, balanced, and a great place to live.

Easthampton continues to plan and implement recommendations from the 2004 Open Space and Recreation Plan and the 2008 Master Plan. Since the last open space plan in 2004, the Manhan Rail Trail has recently been extended to connect to Northampton and Southampton. The Parks and Recreation Department continues to upgrade Nonotuck Park, including new bathroom facilities, baseball fields, pavilions, and road improvements. A new park, Lower Mill Pond Park, is located behind the Pleasant Street Mills adjacent to the Manhan Rail Trail and provides a new amphitheatre, basketball courts, bathroom facilities, and exercise equipment. Daley Field has undergone upgrades to the softball and baseball fields, basketball courts, and tennis courts. Pleasant

Figure 2: Lower Mill Pond Park and Amphitheatre Green Playground was also upgraded with new playground equipment. The City has also acquired over 200 acres of open space land and nearly 30 acres under Conservation Restrictions. Community gardens were developed and multiple acres of land have been placed under Agricultural Preservation Restriction. Environmental quality improvements have been completed with the dredging of the Nashawannuck Pond. Finally, the City has also

2 | Page

Easthampton Open Space and Recreation Plan 2013

The year 2001 saw a large amount of activity (19 permits) for three and four multifamily units. The city anticipates the number of multi‐family units to increase over the next few years, with two moderately sized affordable housing developments to be built; a 38‐unit rental development on Parsons Street in the New City neighborhood, and the 50‐unit Cottage Square development to be built in the old Dye Works building located on Cottage Street in the heart of downtown, across from Nashwannuck Pond.

D. INFRASTRUCTURE One of the most important factors in determining developmental pressures on an environment is the density and amount of infrastructure within it. Gray infrastructure (transportation, water and sewage systems) determine what parts of the environment are buildable and to what density of development they can support. The impact of residential development on Easthampton’s current infrastructure must be considered, and new housing units should be concentrated in areas with existing capacity to meet increased demand.

TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS The City of Easthampton has a total of 92 miles of roadway (PVPC, 2011). The major thoroughfares in the city are Route 10 and Route 141 (Appendix C: Regional Context Map). Route 10 traverses the city from the Northampton town line to the Southampton town line. Route 141 traverses the city from Holyoke and ends in the center of the City at a junction with Route 10. Interstate‐91 can be accessed in Holyoke from Route 141. Secondary roads include East Street, Hendrick Street, Loudville Road, West Street, Florence Road, and Pleasant Street. All of these roads carry commuter traffic through Easthampton from local residential developments and neighboring communities. Figure 9: Manhan Rail Trail

The City of Easthampton is proud to have six miles of dedicated bicycle paths that connect to a larger regional network of 23 miles of bike trails in Northampton, Hadley, Amherst, and Belchertown. In Easthampton, the Manhan Rail Trail runs along an abandoned railroad right‐of‐ way (Appendix D: Sidewalk Map). The trail was built in two phases, with final construction of Phase Two in 2012. Phase One of the Manhan Rail Trail was completed in 2004, and originally connected the Connecticut River/Route 5 westward and southward past the center of the City. Phase Two extended the trail northward to connect to downtown Northampton and further southward to

15 | Page

Easthampton Open Space and Recreation Plan 2013

Southampton. Easthampton has a specially established Manhan Rail Trail Committee that takes the lead on maintenance and enhancement of the trail. There is also a non‐profit organization, Friends of the Manhan Rail Trail, which is dedicated to preserving, beautifying, and enjoying the Manhan Rail Trail.

A sidewalk inventory of the entire city was conducted in the summer of 2007 (Appendix D: Sidewalk Map). The results of this inventory show some small areas within the downtown area that are lacking sidewalks. The majority of the downtown area has sidewalks on at least one side of the street, and sidewalk connections can be made from surrounding neighborhoods to the three elementary schools, the middle school, and the high school. Students can also connect from downtown to the Williston Northampton School and the Tri‐County School via the Manhan Rail Trail.

The City has consistently worked on sidewalk improvements over the years, with most focus being on sections in greatest disrepair or in improving student walking access to schools. Sidewalks from the downtown to White Brook Middle School and Williston Northampton School were completed in 1995, and a new sidewalk was constructed along Line Street to connect the Plains with Park Street. Beyond pedestrian safety, new sidewalks are also being used to spur economic revitalization. New sidewalks and parking were provided along Cottage Street in 2003, and sidewalks were reconstructed in 2006 to connect Pleasant Street Mills with the downtown.

There is a greater concern for the lack of sidewalks on some busy secondary roads that connect neighborhoods on the outer edges of the city to the downtown area. East Street has been identified by the public as a major road that could benefit from sidewalk infrastructure. Other roads such as Loudville Road, Hendrick Street, Plain Street, and Florence Road could also benefit from sidewalk infrastructure, to allow residents on the outer edges of the city to safely access goods and services in the downtown area. Sidewalk infrastructure would also be beneficial on the western stretch of Route 10, to allow residents to access commercial activity on the Easthampton side and the Big Y commercial plaza at the Southampton line (although the extension of the rail trail to the Southampton line can provide pedestrian and bicycle access as well).

WATER SUPPLY Easthampton is one of many communities across the state that relies on groundwater for its source of drinking water. The source of the public water supply is the Barnes Aquifer system, a complex of several productive aquifers extending about twelve miles north and south (Figure 10). The Barnes Aquifer lies under most of Easthampton, but also reaches into Westfield, Holyoke, Northampton, and Southampton. The water is held within sand and gravel deposits laid down approximately 14,000 years ago by a retreating continental glacier. There are currently 11 municipal wells which supply five million gallons of water per day (MGD) to approximately 60,000 people in Northampton, Easthampton, Southampton, Holyoke and Westfield (BAPAC, 2012).

Currently, there are six registered wells that draw water from the Aquifer in Easthampton; these are the Nonotuck Park Well, the Nonotuck Road Well (not currently active), the Brook Street Well, the Hendrick Wellfield and Pines Well off Hendrick Street, and the Maloney Well off Lovefield Street. The Nonotuck Park Well and Brook Street Wells are high quality sources that are pure

16 | Page

Easthampton Open Space and Recreation Plan 2013

AGRICULTURAL PRESERVATION RESTRICTION (APR) The Agricultural Preservation Restriction program is a voluntary program that offers a non‐ development alternative to farmland owners for their agricultural lands who are faced with a decision regarding future use and deposition of their farms. The program offers farmers a payment up to the difference between the “fair market value” and the “fair market agricultural value” of their farmland in exchange for a permanent deed restriction, which precludes any use of the property that will have a negative impact on its agricultural viability. (MA DAR, 2013)

The city has nearly 640 acres of land under the APR program. Several of these properties are also enrolled in the Chapter 61A program, since tax rates for protected open space is often higher than the agricultural use values under Chapter 61A. A complete list of APRs in Easthampton can be found at Table 11.

B. PUBLIC AND NON‐PROFIT PARCELS The City owns 902 acres of land used for public recreation and/or conservation purposes. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is the second largest public land owner in Easthampton with 365 acres as part of the Mt. Tom Reservation, and just over an acre as part of the State Boat Ramp at the Oxbow.

MANHAN RAIL TRAIL The Manhan Rail Trail is a paved, multi‐use greenway winding through the heart of the scenic Pioneer Valley. It offers the convenience of downtown shops and restaurants combined with spectacular views of mountains, rivers, and ponds. Part of the New Haven to Northampton Canal Trail, the Easthampton portion is six miles long, with an additional section in Northampton connecting to the Norwottuck /Central Massachusetts Rail Trail.

The Manhan Rail Trail is proving to be an economic engine, encouraging the redevelopment of old mill Figure 14: Manhan Rail Trail buildings, raising property values along the trail, and bringing numerous travelers into the city. It connects to parks, a beautiful mural and sculpture garden, and even a Little Free Library. The trail provides a no carbon commuter option for people working in Northampton or Amherst and for students attending UMASS, Amherst, and Smith College. And best of all it provides safe, free, and accessible health and recreation benefits for countless citizens. The Friends of the Manhan Rail Trail is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving, beautifying, and enjoying the Manhan Rail Trail (www.manhanrailtrail.org).

43 | Page

Easthampton Open Space and Recreation Plan 2013

The Southampton portion of the trail is progressing rapidly and will provide further opportunities for travel and recreation when completed. Future development of the Manhan Rail Trail will concentrate on providing the residents of the city with greater connectivity to neighborhoods, parks, and schools.

NONOTUCK PARK The city’s largest park, Nonotuck Park is located off Williston and Lownds Avenue on Daley Field Road in Easthampton. The park is used for many types of recreation The Park is open from March until the end of October and operates daily from 8:00 a.m. until dark. Facilities at the park include: beach sand volleyball court, outdoor pool and water spray park, 33 picnic sites, four pavilions, seven youth softball diamonds (60’), one adult softball diamond (65’), two baseball diamonds (90’), 15‐acre soccer complex, two children's playgrounds, three clay court tennis courts, two outdoor basketball courts, fishing access to Nashawannuck Pond, three bocce courts, horseshoe area, bicycle paths, and a nature trail.

Nonotuck Park is also home to a summer day camp for children aged 6‐13, swimming lesson programs, local baseball, softball, and soccer team games and tournaments. The Toteman Nature Trail winds around the perimeter of the park for enjoyment of nature, bird watching, and relaxation.

LOWER MILL POND (MILLSIDE) PARK Located at 2 Ferry Street along the Manhan Rail Bike Path, the Lower Mill Pond Park is designed for passive recreation as well an entertainment complex with an acoustical band shell that host the “Arts in the Park” concert series Friday evenings during the summer months. The park has great water views with picnic tables, seasonal restrooms, a basketball court, outdoor exercise equipment and Manhan Rail Bike Path access. This facility is open to the public and rental opportunities are available by contacting the Parks and Recreation office.

KATHERINE ROOT WAYSIDE PARK Located at the corner of Route 10 and Florence Road, the Katherine Root Wayside Park is dedicated to passive recreation. It provides three picnic tables and grills to enjoy a picnic. It also provides a spigot attached to the town water supply for passersby.

PULASKI PARK Pulaski Park is a passive recreation area located in the center of Easthampton, at the rotary where Northampton Street (Route 10), Main Street, and Pleasant Street merge. The park hosts many activities in its Gazebo: pumpkin carving in October, beautiful holiday lighting in December graces the park, and many wedding ceremonies are also held within the Gazebo throughout the year.

Pulaski Park contains the Kasimer Pulaski Monument, dedicated to the Polish war general, and a monument depicting the first town meeting house in Easthampton, as well as the Mayher Drinking Fountain.

44 | Page

Easthampton Open Space and Recreation Plan 2013

Passive and active recreational opportunities are readily available throughout the city, especially within the downtown area where the highest concentration of low‐moderate income population resides. However, the public has noted that some of these recreational facilities are aging, and resources to upgrade are needed. The development of a Master Plan for Nonotuck Park will prioritize resource needs, as well as develop a timeframe and identify possible funding opportunities for implementation. Residents support the idea of establishing a non‐profit “Friends of Nonotuck Park” to assist with fundraising for these infrastructure improvements.

Given that many of the protected open spaces and places in the community prohibit dogs, residents have also expressed the desire for a dog park to be located within Nonotuck Park or another location in the community. A committee should be formed to study the feasibility of creating a dog park, and the rules and regulations that would be needed for such a facility. “Dog friendly” places in the community should also be identified as part of the public lands booklet previously discussed.

There are a few neighborhoods within the city where there are no parks or playgrounds within walking distance. About 25 percent of survey respondents stated they are not within walking distance of a park. For example, within Easthampton’s Environmental Justice Low Income Block Group as identified in the 2010 US Census (Appendix B: Environmental Justice Areas), there are no pocket parks, and only one playground located at the Maple Street Elementary School, which is open to the public during non‐school hours. However, residents within this block group are within a one‐mile walk to Nonotuck Park, Lower Mill Pond Park, and Pleasant Green. The City should continue to work to identify opportunities to develop new parks within a half‐mile of homes, regardless of age or income. Community gardens could also be expanded to locations within the downtown area, to provide access to individuals who may not have a car to get to the existing gardens in the Park Hill area.

Easthampton residents’ desire new or expanded parks which support the existing recreational activities that are currently occur on the Mill Ponds. Similar to the recreational demands as listed in the 2012 Statewide Recreation Plan, Easthampton residents would like an increase in water‐based recreation (Appendix N: OSRP Survey Results) and more boat ramps. Lower Mill Pond and Nashawannuck Pond are actively used for fishing and non‐motorized boating. Fishing activities usually occur near the dams or on the shoreline of these ponds. Handicap fishing access points are provided at each of the Ponds. Safer fishing areas along the shorelines should be provided at each of these Ponds. A proposal for a Promenade Park at Nashawannuck Pond would provide this access.

As for boating, Lower Mill Pond has a dedicated boat ramp which is well used. There is no formal boat launch or ramp at Nashwannuck Pond, which was discussed as an issue at the most recent Open Space Visioning Workshop (Appendix O: Visioning Workshop Results). Preliminary plans have been developed to provide floating docks as part of a Promenade Park proposal for the northern tip of Nashawannuck Pond. A preliminary design was also completed for a launch facility at Boathouse Beach, which would not only provide boat access but also erosion control measures to address ongoing sedimentation in the Pond.

According to the Open Space survey, the Manhan Rail Trail is the most utilized recreational resource in the City – about 42 percent of the survey respondents use the trail weekly (Appendix N:

59 | Page

Easthampton Open Space and Recreation Plan 2013

OSRP Survey Results). Built on the abandoned railroad right‐of‐way, the Rail Trail bi‐sects the city and connects to a regional trail network in surrounding municipalities. The final phase of work along the abandoned rail line was completed in 2012. However, the next step is to expand the trail connectors, through bike lanes or sidewalks, to neighborhoods, parks, and schools. Wayfinding signs will also help with locating these places within the community from the trail.

As mentioned in the Statewide Recreation Plan, Western and Central Massachusetts residents more often mention hiking trails as a facility they would like to see more of. This is certainly the case in Easthampton as well, with non‐motorized trail use as the highest rating activity (91 percent of survey respondents), and nature trails ranks as the highest recreational need (55 percent of survey respondents) in the city. It was noted several times by survey respondents that they would use the trails in Easthampton if they knew where they were located. Again, the development of a local trail guidebook would be instrumental in providing greater access to the trails.

It is critical to work to fully meet ADA requirements and needs for disabled city residents at our open space and recreational facilities. Currently, the Pascommuck Conservation Trust, the city’s local land trust, is developing plans for a handicap accessible trail on a new conservation project on East Street. The City owns the Conservation Restriction on this parcel, and has a vested interest to see the first accessible trail developed in the city. Other ideas include adding a handicap accessible raised beds in new community gardens developed in the city. In addition, the results of the ADA survey as required under this plan will provide guidance to city officials on how to programs for disabled youth and adults. Demographic trends also show the possible need for programing for aging adults.

C. MANAGEMENT NEEDS, POTENTIAL CHANGE OF USE Management of open space and recreational facilities is split among several different city departments, and hundreds of permanently protected acres are managed by non‐city groups such as state agencies, non‐profits, and land trusts. On the city side, most recreational facilities are under the jurisdiction of the Parks and Recreation Department, with the exception of the facilities that are located on school grounds, which includes the Easthampton Public Schools as well as the private Williston‐Northampton School.

City‐owned recreational facilities are currently managed by the Parks and Recreation Department, while protected open spaces are owned and managed by the Conservation Commission. Currently, Nashwannuck Pond, with the exception of Boathouse Beach, is under the jurisdiction of the Mayor’s Office. The Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee provides recommendations to the Mayor’s office regarding future needs for the Pond. Boathouse Beach is under the management of the Parks and Recreation Department. The Planning Department provides support through grant writing and other technical assistance to all of these various city departments for acquisition, rehabilitation, and development of these properties and facilities.

As stated earlier, the stewardship of the properties maintained by the Conservation Commission has been lacking in the past. The resources to develop forestry/wildlife management plans, walking trails, parking and accessible public access are not present. However, the Commission has

60 | Page

Easthampton Open Space and Recreation Plan 2013 acknowledged that this is a key responsibility to their duties, and with the completion of the Open Space and Recreation Plan, particularly the inventory list in Section 5, the Commission will quickly move ahead to determine how to best manage the properties under their jurisdiction. Most likely, efforts and advertising of volunteer opportunities need to be pursued. Such a volunteer pool could alleviate demands on the Conservation Commission to develop walking/hiking trails and other stewardship functions.

The Parks and Recreation Department has its hands full with maintaining the parks and the programming they offer. Expansion of these services and areas is contingent upon increased funding. The Department has made great progress in implementing the objectives in their 1998 Recreation Plan. They recently completed major improvements within Nonotuck Park, including bathrooms, ball fields, and pavilions.

Communication between the local boards is limited, with the Planning Department generally serving as the liaison between the various Boards and Committees. An Open Space Advisory Committee was formed to oversee the development of the plan. It is the hope that this committee will stay in place after the completion of this Open Space and Recreation Plan to oversee implementation of the Goals and Actions.

Generally, most new development in Easthampton is infill or redevelopment of underutilized parcels. There are few remaining vacant parcels remaining for development (Appendix M: Vacant Lands Map), but those that do remain are in priority protection areas, such as East Street and Park Hill Road. In addition, there are some key vacant parcels in the Aquifer District that should be protected for water quality purposes.

There are two parcels in Easthampton that may provide the opportunity for additional or expanded parks in the city. First, the former Parson Street School has recently been released as surplus property, and the City would like to either sell or lease the building to a private entity for new development. The opportunity for a new park or playground as part of this future use would be key to providing a facility within the New City neighborhood, an area previously identified as an Environmental Justice area in Easthampton. In addition, new infrastructure improvements along the Rail Trail side of Pleasant Street Mills will further enhance this corridor and provide bike amenities as well as increase utilization of Lower Mill Pond Park.

61 | Page

Easthampton Open Space and Recreation Plan 2013

SECTION 8: GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Goal #1: Existing recreational facilities and opportunities are improved to meet the needs of residents.

Objectives:  Playgrounds and tot lots are maintained to safety standards applied to schools  Improve boat access on Nashawannuck Pond and the Manhan River  Funding for recreational improvements is available  Improve existing swimming facilities

Goal #2 Recreational facilities and opportunities are expanded to accommodate the needs of residents.

Objectives:  The sidewalk network creates connections to rail trail.  A network of pocket parks in neighborhoods exists.  Funding for recreational expansions is available

Goal #3: Agriculture is preserved and promoted as an important aspect of community character.

Objectives:  Agritourism is promoted  Local food economy is vibrant  Recreational opportunities are tied into ag lands

Goal #4: Priority Protection Areas are protected and well stewarded and support connectivity to protected open space.

Objectives:  Residents know where conservation lands are and rules and regulations for use  Create a protected greenway along the Manahan River  The Park Hill Priority Protection Area is protected as open space and suburban sprawl is prevented  The East Street Priority Protection Area is protected as open space and suburban sprawl is prevented  Private and public conservation lands are well stewarded and ecologically resilient  Trails are well stewarded in good condition  Local regulations support priority protection areas

62 | Page

Easthampton Open Space and Recreation Plan 2013

SECTION 9: SEVEN YEAR ACTION PLAN NOTE: Under “Responsible Party” the lead party is listed first, with supporting organizations and entities listed thereafter.

Goal #1: Existing recreational facilities and opportunities are improved to meet the needs of residents Action Timeline Responsible Party Funding opportunities 1. Create a Master Plan for Nonotuck Park Year 2 Parks and Rec City appropriation 2. Expand Manhan Rail Trail, through bike lanes and sidewalks, to connect to Ongoing Manhan Trail Committee; Transportation neighborhoods, parks, and schools Planning; Dept. of Public Enhancement funds Works 3. Create car‐top boat launch for Nashawannuck Pond Year 4 Nashwannuck Pond MA Office of Fishing and Committee; Parks and Rec; Boating Access Planning 4. Implement upgrades to playgrounds throughout the city, especially Ongoing Parks and Rec; Planning CDBG; CPA; ADA funds; Nonotuck Park foundations 5. Create a recreational guide to Easthampton for residents and tourists Year 1 Conservation Commission; Conservation Donations Planning; Rail Trail committee; Account PCT; Chamber 6. Evaluate parking needs and traffic calming measures at all recreational Year 3 Parks and Rec; Planning; PVPC PVPC Technical facilities Assistance 7. Create a 501c3 “Friends of Nonotuck Park” to spearhead fundraising Year 3 Parks and Rec Fundraising efforts for the Park 8. Seek funding for pool improvements at Nonotuck Park and White Brook Year 3 School Dept; Parks and Rec City appropriation; Middle School grants 9. Seek funding for design and construction of sidewalks, especially on East Year 5 Planning TBD Street 10. Build new Park and Recreation Department facility Year 5 Parks and Recreation Capital Improvements

64 | Page

Easthampton Open Space and Recreation Plan 2013

Goal #2: Recreational facilities and opportunities are expanded to accommodate the needs of residents Action Timeline Responsible Party Funding opportunities 1. Complete design and construction of a Promenade Park at Nashawannuck Year 1 Planning; Parks and Rec PARC Pond 2. Form a committee to study the feasibility of creating a dog park, including Year 7 Planning None needed identification of possible locations, and creation of rules and regulations 3. Identify locations and construct new pocket parks in neighborhoods Ongoing Planning; Parks and Rec PARC; CDBG; CPA; lacking access to green space foundations 4. Investigate fundraising for maintenance and preservation of all Ongoing All TBD recreational infrastructure, especially the Manhan Rail Trail Goal #3: Agriculture is preserved and promoted as an important aspect of community character Action Timeline Responsible Party Funding Opportunities 1. Expand the Ted Sparko Memorial Community Garden and/or create a Year 2 Garden Committee; CPA; PARC; Garden new community garden within the downtown area Conservation Commission Donations 2. Agricultural Commission is active in promotion of local agriculture and Ongoing Agricultural Commission None needed public outreach 3. Determine viability for food production on the city‐owned orchard on Year 2 Conservation Commission; None needed Park Hill Road Planning; Agricultural Commission; Garden Committee 4. Work with landowners to expand network of active farmland through fee Ongoing Conservation Commission; Dept of Conservation acquisitions, conservation restrictions, agricultural preservation Planning; PCT; Kestrel Trust; and Recreation; Dept of restrictions, and/or donations Trust for Public Land Agricultural Resources Goal #4: Priority Protection Areas are protected and well­stewarded and support connectivity to protected open spaces Action Timeline Responsible Party Funding Opportunities 1. Promote public access to conservation lands with improved signage, Year 2 Conservation Commission; CPA; Conservation maps, and educational outreach Planning; PCT Donations Account 2. Work with landowners to expand network of active farmland through fee Ongoing Conservation Commission; Dept of Conservation acquisitions, conservation restrictions, agricultural preservation Planning; PCT and Recreation; Dept of restrictions, and/or donations Agricultural Resources 3. City and land trust partners work collaboratively to develop and support Ongoing Conservation Commission; None needed a corps of volunteer land stewards for conservation land maintenance Planning; PCT 4. Review Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) ordinance and revise to Year 6 Planning Board None needed promote use of this zoning tool for protecting open space

65 | Page