WATERFRONT PARKS

Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail VOLUME 3 WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS

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V3-2 TABLE OF CONTENTS: VOLUME 3

VOLUME 3 1.0 INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. V3-5 2.0 TYPICAL TRAILWAY CONDITIONS………………………………………………………………………………………………………. V3-7 2.1 MULTI-USE PATH……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. V3-7 2.2 BICYCLE LANE…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… V3-7 2.3 WIDE CURB LANE………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. V3-7 2.4 PAVED SHOULDER…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. V3-7 2.5 SHARED LANE…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… V3-7 2.6 BICYCLE ROUTE…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. V3-8 2.7 NON-COUNTY PARTNERSHIPS……………………………………………………………………………………………. V3-8 2.7.1 UTILITY CORRIDORS……………………………………………………………………………………… V3-8 2.7.2 RAILROAD CORRIDORS…………………………………………………………………………………. V3-9 2.7.3 LOCAL AND STATE ROAD RIGHT-OF-WAYS……………………………………………………… V3-10 2.8 MAINTENANCE………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. V3-10 3.0 TRAILWAYS AND CONNECTIVITY……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. V3-13 3.1 INTRODUCTION………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. V3-13 3.2 COMMUNITY-BASED LINKAGES………………………………………………………………………………………….. V3-13 3.2.1 CITY OF BUFFALO…………………………………………………………………………………………. V3-13 3.2.2 CLARENCE/AKRON AREA……………………………………………………………………………… V3-14 3.2.3 DEPEW/LANCASTER AREA……………………………………………………………………………. V3-15 3.2.4 EAST AURORA/WALES AREA…………………………………………………………………………. V3-15 3.2.5 HAMBURG/ORCHARD PARK AREA………………………………………………………………… V3-16 3.2.6 TOWN OF EVANS/BRANT AREA……………………………………………………………………… V3-17 3.2.7 BOSTON/COLDEN/HOLLAND AREA……………………………………………………………….. V3-17 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. V3-19 4.1 COUNTY’S ROLE ON THE WATERFRONT………………………………………………………………………………. V3-19 4.1.1 GENERAL……………………………………………………………………………………………………… V3-19 4.1.2 GREENWAY UPPER RIVER/RIVERWALK……………………………………………………………V3-20 4.1.3 RIVERWALK/INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE (CITY OF BUFFALO)…………………………………. V3-21 4.1.4 SUNSET VIEW/THE BEACHES……………………………………………………………….. V3-22 4.2 BACKGROUND STUDIES AND INITIATIVES…………………………………………………………………………… V3-23 4.3 REGIONAL WATERFRONT SITES…………………………………………………………………………………………. V3-24 4.4 POLICY DIRECTION…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. V3-36 4.4.1 WATERFRONT PLANNING……………………………………………………………………………… V3-36 4.4.2 MANAGEMENT OF THE WATERFRONT RECREATION SYSTEM………………………….. V3-36 4.5 WATERFRONT PARK SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS…………………………………………………………………… V3-36 4.5.1 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT……………………………………………………………………………… V3-36 4.5.2 ACCESS AND LINKAGES……………………………………………………………………………….. V3-36 4.6 CONCLUSION…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. V3-36 5.0 WATERFRONT TRAIL SYSTEM…………………………………………………………………………………………………………… V3-39 5.1 INTRODUCTION………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. V3-39 5.2 DESCRIPTION AND STATUS………………………………………………………………………………………………… V3-39 5.3 PRIMARY WATERFRONT RECREATION TRAIL SEGMENTS…………………………………………………….. V3-40 5.4 CONCLUSION…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. V3-46 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS…………………………………………………………………………………………….. V3-49 6.1 RIVERWALK SECTION OF THE SHORELINE TRAIL…………………………………………………………………. V3-49 6.2 TWO MILE CREEK GREENWAY……………………………………………………………………………………………. V3-69 7.0 SCHEMATIC PLANS………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. V3-79

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V3-4 1.0 INTRODUCTION FINAL PLAN

WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS

INTRODUCTION

As part of the Master Plan Update for the Erie County Parks System, an emphasis was placed on analysis and strategic recommendations for parks and greenways in the Niagara River corridor. This area contains several County-owned properties, parks, and multi-use paths including the Erie County Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail and Two-Mile Creek Greenway. County-owned parks considered part of the Niagara River Greenway Corridor include Isle View Park and Ellicott Creek Park (These parks were included within WKH SDUN VSHFLÀF UHFRPPHQGDWLRQV LQ YROXPH  RI WKH UHSRUW 

The primary focus of this particular Volume is on the County maintained multi-use paths. These trails, particularly the Erie County Shoreline Trail are key components of the overall waterfront planning initiative for Erie County.

This Volume includes the following sections:

• Typical Conditions

• Trailways and Connectivity

• Waterfront Strategy

• Waterfront Trail System

• Inventory and Recommendations

• Schematic Plans: ʊ Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail Strategic Plan ʊ 8QLWHG5HÀQHU\,VOH9LHZ([WHQVLRQ3ODQ ʊ 7ZR0LOH&UHHN*UHHQZD\7UDLO([WHQVLRQ

Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail in the Town of Tonawanda (Erie County)

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V3-6 2.0 TYPICAL TRAILWAY CONDITIONS FINAL PLAN

TYPICAL TRAILWAY CONDITIONS

The range of design treatments available for a recreational trail system includes off-road multi-use pathways and on- road bicycle lanes, wide curb lanes, paved shoulders, or shared lanes. Also included among these treatments is bicycle route signage designed to alert motorists of increased bicycling activity and to designate specific bicycle routes.

2.1 MULTI-USE PATH Multi-use paths are special use facilities which provide physical separation from motorized traffic. In general, these paths are intended to supplement the roadway network and provide access to otherwise inaccessible areas. However, they are also often utilized within the public right-of-way parallel to roadways. Typically, multi-use paths are about 12’ wide paved surfaces to allow two-way cycle traffic and a pedestrian lane.

2.2 BICYCLE LANE Bicycle lanes are generally one-way facilities in the direction of traffic flow that use a portion of a roadway shared with motor vehicles. They are designated by signing, striping and pavement markings to indicate their exclusive use by bicyclists.

2.3 WIDE CURB LANE Wide curb or outside lanes are on-street facilities in which Paved trail spur at Isle View Park bicyclists and motor vehicles share the same travel lane. Where prescribed, these outside lanes should be a minimum of 14’ wide. These facilities are useful where bicycle lanes are warranted but are prevented due to physical constraints.

2.4 PAVED SHOULDER Paved shoulders are not part of the motor vehicle travel lane. As such, they are separated from the outermost travel lane by an edge stripe. When these facilities are part of a designated bike route system, parking should be prohibited on such shoulders except in the event of an emergency. Paved shoulders as bicycle facilities have the widest application in rural areas.

2.5 SHARED LANE Shared lane facilities exist when bicyclists and motor vehicles share the same travel lane on a roadway. Shared lanes typically are 12’ wide or less. These facilities are most common on neighborhood streets and rural roads and are preferably reinforced by signage which increases drive awareness of bicycles.

Shoreline Trail signage

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 2.0 TYPICAL TRAILWAY CONDITIONS V3-7 2.0 TYPICAL TRAILWAY CONDITIONS FINAL PLAN

2.6 BICYCLE ROUTE

As mentioned previously, bicycle routes are identified only by signage which directs bicyclists along preferred routes to VSHFLÀFGHVWLQDWLRQV%LNHURXWHVLJQDJHFDQEHHVWDEOLVKHG on both multi-use paths and along bike lanes, paved shoulders, wide curb lanes or shared travel lanes. Therefore it is recommended that bike route signage be utilized as part of the comprehensive recreational trail network. It has been found that the range of abilities for bicyclists can be condensed into three groups. These are: • Group A - advanced or experienced cyclists • Group B - basic or casual adult cyclists • Group C - child bike riders

2.7 NON-COUNTY PARTNERSHIPS Riverwalk signage GAS LINE The public sentiment regarding family-oriented recreational • National Fuel trails is to explore as many off-road linkages as possible. To The majority of the utility corridors used by National Fuel accomplish this, the County will have to form partnerships are under private ownership and used by National Fuel with some non-county entities. A summary of the through easements. To use any privately owned land, anticipated process to initiate these partnerships follow: permission must be granted by the landowner. National Fuel does, however, own a portion of corridors in Erie County, 2.7.1 UTILITY CORRIDORS mostly in the Lancaster and Clarence areas. A review of County Tax Records will reveal if a proposed corridor is The various snowmobile clubs active in Erie County commonly owned by National Fuel or is under private ownership. If it utilize these corridors as part of their network of trails. is determined that the proposed land is owned by National Sharing paved, multi-use pathways with snowmobiles is not Fuel, a written request must be submitted to National Fuel’s considered to be wise from either a maintenance or safety Land Department. The request would state the intended use perspective. However, it could be possible in some areas to and location. Once this information is submitted to the Land expand the use agreement for the utility corridor and develop Department, an internal proposal is compiled and a decision multi-use paths adjacent to the snowmobile trails. The would be made formally accepting or denying the request. snowmobile trails can also be shared by equestrian groups.

Shoreline Trail

V3-8 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE VOLUME 3

POWER LINES accepted by the Surface Transportation Board in order • National Grid (formerly known as Niagara Mohawk) for a railroad corridor to be considered abandoned. The Due to security and liability concerns, it is National Grid’s status of abandonment can be determined by contacting policy not to invite any third parties to use their land. However, WKHUDLOURDGFRPSDQ\RUWKURXJKWKHUDLORIÀFHLQWKH permission may still be granted in certain instances. Before State Department of Transportation. After abandonment an application would be accepted, the County would first the railroad company usually removes the tracks and ties have to acquire all the necessary insurance, proof of IRUVDOYDJH0XQLFLSDOLWLHVKDYHWKHÀUVWRSSRUWXQLW\WR consent from all neighboring landowners, and pay all fees purchase these abandoned corridors from the railroad associated with the application. Once all three prerequisites which can then be surfaced with asphalt, crushed stone are met, the application would then be submitted to the or another material appropriate for the intended trail use. 5HDO(VWDWH2IÀFHZKHUHDQRIÀFLDOGHFLVLRQZRXOGEHPDGH Occasionally the railroad companies leave the bridges and tunnels intact. Therefore the new owner would 2.7.2 RAILROAD CORRIDORS only have to add wood decking and other appropriate features. The use of railroad corridors as recreational trails may only become a possible DIWHU numerous Easement (Rails-With-Trails) studies, planning, and community public meetings • Many communities have started to team up with railroad take place to properly explore if a trail is feasible companies to construct a trail that runs alongside active and appropriate. There are two scenarios in which tracks. In most cases, a full easement is granted for the railroad corridors can be utilized for recreational trails. use of the land.

Abandonment (Rails-To-Trails) Similar to an easement is ‘railbanking’. Whena railroad • 7KHÀUVWVWHSWREXLOGLQJD5DLOWR7UDLOPXOWLXVHSDWKLV announces its intention to abandon a corridor, to determine ownership and if the corridor is abandoned. interesteLQWHUHVWHG groups or agencies can apply to the Surface A request for Abandonment must be submitted and Transportation Board to have the corridor railbanked and used in the interim as a trail.

Shoreline Trail (City of Buffalo)

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 2.0 TYPICAL TRAILWAY CONDITIONSFINALV3-9 P 2.0 TYPICAL TRAILWAY CONDITIONS FINAL PLAN

2.7.3 LOCAL AND STATE ROAD RIGHT-OF-WAYS will eventually become a liability for the jurisdiction. Broken glass, sand, litter and fallen leaves often accumulate The philosophy is to develop County road linkages as extensions on multi-use pathways, bike lanes and paved shoulders. of the park system. In some areas, utilizing either local or Therefore, as a minimum, regular maintenance should be state road right-of-ways as linkages makes the most sense. provided to sweep the debris from bicycle facilities. If multi- Generally, successful partnerships for bicycle facilities within use pathways are to be cleared of snow, then this should these areas will be determined by the ability of the jurisdictions be done by plowing. De-icing agents and abrasives can involved to resolve maintenance and liability issues. damage bicycles and create potentially unsafe conditions. Yearly inspections of all bicycle facilities should also be 2.8 MAINTENANCE conducted. These inspections should focus on the following items: The jurisdiction(s) responsible for the maintenance of • Surface repairs - small bumps, cracks or potholes planned bicycle facilities should be established prior to • Pavement edges - should be uniform and not have abrupt construction. In addition, the annual costs of maintaining drop-offs these facilities has to be budgeted for. Neglecting routine • Vegetation - remove overgrown plant material that maintenance will eventually create bicycle facilities is encroaching onto bikeways and inhibiting both that are undesirable and unsafe. Deteriorating facilities maneuverability and sight lines

Shoreline Trail - LaSalle Park

V3-10 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail - Isle View Park

Maintenance requirements can be reduced through proper • Most importantly, the designation of bikeways will not planning. Good edge treatments and adequate base materials affect the government highway agency potential liability will increase the longevity of paved surfaces. Placing plant because the liability already exists for providing a safe PDWHULDOVDVXIÀFLHQWGLVWDQFHIURPELNHZD\VZLOOPLQLPL]H environment for bicyclists, so long as they are not encroachment problems. Additionally, some communities have expressly forbidden from using the road. It is in the best initiated “adopt-a-trail” programs where civic groups or other interest of the highway agency to comply with applicable organizations take responsibility for some routine maintenance. laws, guidelines, and recommended procedures relating As in all agreements, the responsibilities of any organization to the design, construction, operation and maintenance interested in this program should be clearly spelled out. of bikeways as a means of reducing the risk of liability for bicyclists. The Bicycle Federation of America report titled Liability Aspects of Bikeway Designation presents a compelling The development of bikeways thus has the potential for argument for reducing the potential of increased public liability reducing liability because properly developed bike routes as it relates to bikeways. Several points are presented: should have the net effect of reducing accidents involving • Bicyclists have a right to use the road and the local bicyclists. Reducing the number of accidents reduces liability. highway agency has a responsibility to make it as safe for “Properly developed” is a key issue for Erie County. As long as bicyclists as it does for motorists. Because the presence WKHUDWLRQDOHLVMXVWLÀHGRQKRZRUZK\DVSHFLÀFLPSURYHPHQW of bicyclists can be predicted, extra need for safety may was designed then there is limited liability for design to the be plainly apparent at some locations and thus require County. Any new facilities will be designed to industry standards greater care and attention than would be the case if and guidelines to the fullest extent possible. However, it bicyclists were prohibited. should be noted, in many cases involving development of • The duty to provide a reasonable safe highway for public trail facilities into existing site conditions (as opposed to new use remains with the designated government agency. build), it is not always feasible to follow design guidelines That agency has a responsibility to maintain the highway, exactly and compromises sometimes have to be made. inspect it for defects and hazards and to remove any such hazards or provide some warning of the defect to highway users.

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V3-12 3.0 TRAILWAYS AND CONNECTIVITY FINAL PLAN

TRAILWAYS AND 3.2 COMMUNITY-BASED LINKAGES CONNECTIVITY 3.3.1 CITY OF BUFFALO

3.1 INTRODUCTION Provide safe access to and from the Buffalo River Habitat Parks by working with the City of Buffalo, GObike Buffalo, and With a total of 39 parks and trailways properties, Erie County the GBNRTC. Red Jacket Riverfront Park is less than a 2 mile provides a variety of services and amenities throughout bike ride from Seneca Bluffs and Bailey Peninsula Park. Times the County. It is advantageous for the County to work Beach Nature Preserve is connected to nearby parks via the with local governments and multi-modal transportation Outer Harbor Trail. Providing connectivity among these parks, groups to establish community-based trail linkages. These would provide more people with the opportunities to enjoy these opportunities would provide access to the parks, as well natural areas within the urban community. These parks have as increasing connections to Town and Village business received various restoration efforts and volunteer cleanups centers. Many of the County Parks are only a few miles from to provide a beautiful natural setting on the Buffalo River. each other and serve the communities as great places to enjoy bike rides, strolling walks, and hiking opportunities. It is recommended that for all future road construction For people who enjoy an active lifestyle, new community trail and improvements that the County work closely linkages can provide alternative ways to access the parks. with various municipalities and agencies to achieve elements of successful Complete Streets design.

Existing and potential trail connections

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3.3.2 CLARENCE / AKRON AREA continues southwest and the Peanut Line travels northwest. In the Town of Newstead/Village of Akron Joint Comprehensive The Town of Newstead and Village of Akron currently Plan, the plan proposes a future bike path connection from the have an extensive off-road multi-purpose trail network via Westshore Line to Akron Falls Park. The plan also recognizes the Peanut Line and Westshore Line. The path begins at the importance of establishing stronger connections with the Village of Akron at the intersection of Cedar Street the Village Center from Akron Falls Park. The County should (Rt. 93) and travels southwest along the old Westshore coordinate with the Town and Village to create these connections. railroad line till it hits a junction where the Westshore Line

Linkages map and community facilities - Town of Newstead/ Village of Akron Comprehensive Plan

V3-14 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

3.3.3 DEPEW / LANCASTER AREA Proposed connectivity improvements - Town of Lancaster, Village of Lancaster, Village of Depew 7KH/DQFDVWHU'HSHZ&RPSUHKHQVLYH3ODQLGHQWLÀHVSURSRVHG Comprehensive Plan bike paths extending from the Heritage Trail to form a loop trail with Como Lake Park. One connection would extend south along Walter Winter Drive, then west on Erie Street, south on Court Street to Broadway, west on Broadway to Lake Avenue, and then south on Lake Avenue to Old Lake Avenue, which takes you into Como Lake Park. The plan identifies a potential gateway at Como Lake Park and Old Lake Avenue. Another proposed trail spur extends south along Cemetery Road to Broadway, west on Broadway to Bowen Road, and south on Bowen Road to enter Como Lake Park.

3.3.4 EAST AURORA / WALES AREA

Most potential trails in this area would tend to be on-road shared lanes or widened shoulders due to the rural character of the area. The less traveled roads by the two County Parks, Emery Park and Hunter’s Creek Park, lend themselves to this type of trail. Route 16, on the other hand, is a high speed, high volume roadway. Therefore, an off-road trail on the Route 16 right-of-way could be proposed along from Lapham Road south to Warner Hill Road. Additional on-road trail proposals could create a loop trail connecting Emery and Hunters Creek Park with the Village of East Aurora and other local destinations.

Potential connections and trail loop from Emery Park to Hunters Creek Park

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3.3.5 HAMBURG / ORCHARD PARK AREA to Old Lake Shore Road. This off-road section would be proposed to be in the county right-of-way along these roads. Potential recreational trails in the Hamburg / Orchard Park An on-road shared lane could be proposed as a connection area tie the population areas of the Village of Hamburg, the to Eighteen Mile Creek Park. The second approach could Village of Orchard Park and North Boston to Chestnut Ridge be an on-road shared lane route along Amsdell Road and County Park, Eighteen Mile Creek, and to the parks along Rogers Road to State Route 5. Trail proposals within the Lake Erie. An on-road bike lane currently starts at the Village Village limits will require coordination with the municipality. of Orchard Park on State Route 240, and continues south within the state right-of-way (which becomes NYS Route 277) It is recommended to expand the Shoreline Trail in the until Chestnut Ridge Park, at which point the lanes become Town of Hamburg to run along NYS Route 5 and Old a narrower shoulder. Due to high speeds in this section of Lakeshore Road by means of a trail or complete street road, a wider shoulder would be recommended to continue modification. This would connect the Lackawanna along NYS Route 277 until it transitions to Herman Hill Road. sections of the Shoreline Trail to the Town of Evans.

The Village of Hamburg could be better connected to Chestnut Ridge Park by a potential on-road shared lane along Newton Road. The Village of Hamburg could also be better connected WRWKHZDWHUIURQWE\WZRVHSDUDWHDSSURDFKHV7KHÀUVWLVDQ off-road trail along North Creek Road and Lakeview Road

Potential trails map in the Orchard Park/Hamburg area

V3-16 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE VOLUME 3

3.3.6 TOWN OF EVANS / BRANT AREA 3.3.7 BOSTON / COLDEN / HOLLAND AREA

It is recommended to expand and construct WKH Due to the rural nature and smaller population centers Shoreline Trail along Old Lakeshore Road into Evangola in these areas designated trails and linkages would not State Park. Continue WKH Kennedy Street Connector be highly emphasized. However routes could potentially Project by adding a sidewalk to connect Lake Erie connect Boston Forest Park, Sprague Brook Park and Beach to the Shoreline Trail. Provide complete street several county forests with nearby population centers. connection on Sturgeon Point Road between Old Holland could be connected to Sprague Brook Park by Lakeshore Road and the Marina. using an on-road shared lane on Holland-Glenwood Road to Crump Road and then into Pratham Road to Foote Road, where the main entrance to the park is located.The population center of Colden could be better connected to Boston Forest Park, by using on-road shared lanes along Boston-Colden Road to an on-road bike lane through the Village of Patchin on Boston State Road back to on-road shared lanes on Trevett Road, Brown Hill Road and Feddick Road, where the Boston Forest Park is located.

Shoreline Trail Map - Connection to Evangola State Park Trail connections in the Colden-Holland-Boston area (below)

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V3-18 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY FINAL PLAN

WATERFRONT STRATEGY

4.1 COUNTY’S ROLE ON THE WATERFRONT

4.1.1 GENERAL

The potential for waterfront development continues to be the source of much attention and discussion within Western New York. Erie County has one of the most beautiful and historically VLJQLÀFDQWZDWHUIURQWVLQDOORIWKH8QLWHG6WDWHVLQFOXGLQJ /DNH(ULHWKH1LDJDUDDQG%XIIDOR5LYHUV&DWWDUDXJXVDQG Eighteen Mile Creeks and the Erie Canal. Given the large H[SHQVHRIPDLQWDLQLQJZDWHUIURQWSURSHUWLHVDQGWKHFXUUHQW RUSURMHFWHGÀVFDOGLIÀFXOWLHVIDFLQJPDQ\WRZQVFLWLHVDQG FRXQWLHVDFURVVWKHVWDWH(ULH&RXQW\FDQQRWEHH[SHFWHG to handle all waterfront responsibility. Partnerships for both funding and stewardship of waterfront parks and trails will QHHGWREHIRUPHGZLWKORFDOPXQLFLSDOLWLHVDQGFRRUGLQDWLRQ ZLWKWKH6WDWHRI1HZ

The Shoreline Trail, in addition to the County’s waterfront parks and trails, is increasing the connectivity between waterfront amenities throughout the County (Image: Erie County Department of Environment and Planning).

• %HFDXVHRI6KRUHOLQH7UDLOHIIRUWVHPSKDVLVVKRXOGEH placed on strengthening partnerships between local PXQLFLSDOLWLHVDQG(ULH&RXQW\DQGRQHQFRXUDJLQJ PRUHLQYROYHPHQWIURPWKH6WDWHDQG)HGHUDOOHYHOV)HZ counties and regions of the country have a linear trail V\VWHPVXFKDVWKH6KRUHOLQH7UDLODQGWKLVVKRXOGEH seen as a wise investment and long-term stewardship HIIRUWE\WKH6WDWHRI1HZ

• (ULH&RXQW\VKRXOGSDUWQHUZLWKWKH1HZ

Shoreline Trail along the Niagara River

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY V3-19 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY FINAL PLAN

4.1.2 GREENWAY UPPER RIVER RIVERWALK

1RUWK RI WKH &LW\ RI %XIIDOR (ULH &RXQW\ KDV PDMRU LQYROYHPHQWDQGLQYHVWPHQWLQWKH6KRUHOLQH:DWHUIURQW7UDLO 6\VWHP ZKLFK VHUYHV DV WKH RYHUDOO UHFUHDWLRQDO ´VSLQHµ OLQNLQJ QXPHURXV ZDWHUIURQW SDUNV LQFOXGLQJ ORFDO FRXQW\ and state facilities. The County also owns and operates (OOLFRWW &UHHN 3DUN DORQJ WKH (ULH &DQDO FODVVLILHG DV D +HULWDJH3DUNDQG,VOH9LHZ3DUNDORQJWKH1LDJDUD5LYHU

• The County should continue to promote regional trail HIIRUWVZKLOHORRNLQJWRSDUWQHUZLWKWKH6WDWHRI1HZ

• 7KH(ULH&DQDOZD\7UDLOV\VWHPZKLFKLQFOXGHVVRPH H[LVWLQJ&RXQW\WUDLOVHFWLRQVLVDQLQWHJUDOSDUWRIWKH (ULH&DQDO´1DWLRQDO+HULWDJHµFRUULGRU$VHFWLRQRIWKH WUDLOSDVVHVWKURXJKWKH&RXQW\·V(OOLFRWW&UHHN3DUNDQG OLQNVGLUHFWO\WRWKH6KRUHOLQH7UDLOV\VWHP(ULH&RXQW\ Riverwalk Trail section of the Shoreline Trail within Isle View Park VKRXOGUHPDLQDSDUWQHUZLWK1LDJDUD&RXQW\6WDWHRI 1HZ

• &KHUU\)DUPVLWHLVDQRWKHUVLJQLÀFDQWSURSHUW\WKDW deserves attention from both the county and state levels RIJRYHUQPHQW7KLVUHFODLPHGEURZQÀHOGSURSHUW\ FRXOGEHVHHQDVDQDWLRQDOPRGHOIRUODQGUHFODPDWLRQ shoreline/habitat restoration and waterfront recreation. 6WUDWHJLHVIRU&KHUU\)DUPKDYHEHHQGHYHORSHGDVSDUW RIWKH7RQDZDQGD2SSRUWXQLW\$UHD3ODQ

• The County should revisit portions of the existing 5LYHUZDONVHFWLRQRIWKH6KRUHOLQH7UDLODOLJQPHQW6RPH stretches of the trail do not have much relationship to the ZDWHUDQGWUDYHODORQJVRPHYHU\EXV\URDGZD\V $ORQJ 5LYHU5RDGIURPWKH*UDQG,VODQG%ULGJHWR6KHULGDQ 'ULYH :KHQFRQVWUXFWHGLQWKHODWHVWKHUHZHUH PDQ\LPSHGLPHQWVWROLQNLQJWKH5LYHUZDONGLUHFWO\WRWKH 5LYHUGXHWRDFWLYHLQGXVWULHVDQGODQGXVHVFKDQJHVLQ land uses along this section of the waterfront and other opportunities now exist in some areas for realignment and making a stronger and more aesthetically pleasing FRQQHFWLRQEHWZHHQWKH5LYHUZDONVHFWLRQRIWKH 6KRUHOLQH7UDLODQGWKH5LYHU

View of the Grand Island Bridge

V3-20 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE VOLUME 3

4.1.3 RIVERWALK INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE • %URGHULFN3DUN &LW\RI%XIIDOR LVDVPDOOEXWH[WUHPHO\ (CITY OF BUFFALO) LPSRUWDQWVLWHIRU:HVWHUQ1HZ

LaSalle Park, City of Buffalo

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY V3-21 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY FINAL PLAN

4.1.4 SUNSET VIEW THE BEACHES UHJLRQDOWUDLOHIIRUWVDORQJWKHVRXWKHUQVKRUHOLQHDUHDV ZKLOHORRNLQJWRSDUWQHUZLWKWKH6WDWHRI1HZ

Outer Harbor trailway along Lake Erie

V3-22 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

4.2 BACKGROUND STUDIES AND INITIATIVES LPSHWXVIRUWKHFXUUHQWZDWHUIURQWVWUDWHJ\ZKLFKLQFOXGHVDQ emphasis on some major guiding themes. These themes include: (ULH&RXQW\LQFOXGHVVFHQLFODNHDQGULYHUV\VWHPVLQFOXGLQJ H[WHQVLYHVKRUHOLQHDORQJ/DNH(ULHDQGWKH1LDJDUD5LYHU • Encouragement of greater New York State Involvement which are significant regional attractions and economic DORQJWKHZDWHUIURQWLQSDUWQHUVKLSZLWK(ULH&RXQW\ assets. Waterfront land ownership is held by a number of and local communities. This regional cooperation would LQWHUHVWVLQFOXGLQJ6WDWH&RXQW\ORFDOPXQLFLSDOJRYHUQPHQWV elevate the waterfront to a higher level of recreational DQGSULYDWHODQGRZQHUV,WKDVEHHQZHOOUHFRJQL]HGLQ1HZ and tourism potential and develop it into an asset of

Out of these past studies and planning initiatives comes the

Times Beach on the Outer Harbor

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY V3-23 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY FINAL PLAN

4.3 REGIONAL WATERFRONT SITES 7KH SDUN LV RSHQ \HDU URXQG DQG RIIHUV EHDFK VZLPPLQJ SLFQLFNLQJ QDWXUH WUDLOV FURVVFRXQWU\ VNLLQJ VOHGGLQJ The following is a synopsis of waterfront sites (from North and tobogganing along with an eighteen hole golf course. WR6RXWK WKDWLQFOXGH&RXQW\RZQHGDQGRUPDQDJHGVLWHV along with other sites that represent the regional waterfront THE TONAWANDAS system. Many of the projects have been achieved or are moving IRUZDUG ZLWK &RXQW\ LQYROYHPHQW ,Q WKH IXWXUH WKH &RXQW\ 4. ERIE CANALWAY TRAIL is likely to be increasingly asked to participate in waterfront Joint Venture projects of significance. The projects identified below are 6WUHWFKLQJPLOHVIURPWKH+XGVRQ5LYHUWRWKH*UHDW/DNHV projects that may warrant some level of County involvement ZLWKORFNVWKH(ULH&DQDOKDVEHHQUHFRJQL]HGDVRQHRI under a partnership or collaborative arrangement with the WKHJUHDWHQJLQHHULQJIHDWVRIWKHWK&HQWXU\LQLWLDWLQJDQ 6WDWHDQG/RFDOJRYHUQPHQWV*LYHQWKHVWDWHZLGHVLJQLÀFDQFH HFRQRPLFERRPLQWKH:HVW7RGD\LWLVDOVRUHFRJQL]HGDVD RIWKH(ULH&RXQW\ZDWHUIURQWLQFOXGLQJWKH/DNH(ULHVKRUHOLQH VLJQLÀFDQWKHULWDJHUHVRXUFHDQGDUHFUHDWLRQDPHQLW\7KH1HZ WKH1LDJDUD5LYHUDQG(ULH&DQDOHPSKDVLVVKRXOGEHSODFHG ELLICOTT CREEK PARK %XFNKRUQ,VODQG6WDWH3DUNLVDQDFUHVWDWHRZQHGQDWXUDO Erie County HQYLURQPHQWDUHDORFDWHGDWWKHQRUWKZHVWWLSRI*UDQG,VODQG (OOLFRWW&UHHN3DUNLVDFUH&RXQW\RZQHGSDUNLQWKH7RZQ DQGVHSDUDWHGIURPWKHUHVWRIWKHLVODQGE\%XUQW6KLS&UHHN of Tonawanda. One of the original County parks acquired and &RPSULVHGRIPDUVKPHDGRZVDQGZRRGVWKHVLWHDIIRUGV GHYHORSHGIRUPXOWLXVHLQWKHSDUNLVORFDWHGRQWKH(ULH VRPH RI WKH EHVW ZLOGOLIH YLHZLQJ DORQJ WKH 1LDJDUD 5LYHU &DQDODQGLVWUDYHUVHGE\(OOLFRWW&UHHN,WLQFOXGHVQXPHURXV KHULWDJHVWUXFWXUHVDERDWODXQFKVLWHIRUFDQRHVDQGDGRJSDUN 2. WEST RIVER CONNECTOR TRAIL New York State (NYSOPRHP) 6. TONAWANDAS GATEWAY HARBOR PARK 7KH :HVW 5LYHU 3DUNZD\ ZKLFK ZDV D VHDVRQDO URDG LV City of Tonawanda/North Tonawanda EHLQJFORVHGWRWUDIÀFDQGFRQYHUWHGLQWRDQHLJKWPLOHORQJ Gateway Park is a waterfront park on the Erie Canal trail for bicyclists and pedestrians. The trail will connect in the Tonawanda’s. The park includes a marina with %XFNKRUQ 6WDWH 3DUN WR %HDYHU ,VODQG 6WDWH 3DUN DQG LV D transient boat docks. Many events are held including PDMRUSLHFHRIOLQNDJHEHWZHHQ%XIIDORDQG1LDJDUD)DOOV FRQFHUWV IHVWLYDOV IRRG WUXFNV DQG KROLGD\ HYHQWV

3. BEAVER ISLAND STATE PARK New York State (NYSOPRHP) %HDYHU ,VODQG 6WDWH 3DUN LV D DFUH VWDWHRZQHG PXOWL SXUSRVH SDUN ORFDWHG DW WKH VRXWKHUQ WLS RI *UDQG ,VODQG

V3-24 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

View of Tonawanda Creek from Ellicott Island

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY V3-25 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY FINAL PLAN

7. SHORELINE TRAIL SYSTEM 9. VETERAN’S MEMORIAL PARK Erie County City of Tonawanda 7KH6KRUHOLQH7UDLOH[WHQGVDORQJWKH1LDJDUD5LYHUIURP 9HWHUDQ·V0HPRULDO3DUNLVDODUJHPXOWLSXUSRVHSDUNORFDWHG WKH7RQDZDQGDVWKURXJK%XIIDORDQGFXUUHQWO\EHLQJ RQWKHEDQNVRYHUORRNLQJWKH1LDJDUD5LYHULQWKH&LW\RI FRQVWUXFWHGLQGLIIHUHQWSDUWVVRXWKRIWKH&LW\%HJLQQLQJ Tonawanda. The site is adjacent to Niawanda Park and Two- QHDU7RQDZDQGD·V*DWHZD\+DUERU3DUNWKH6KRUHOLQH7UDLO 0LOH&UHHNDQGOLHVQHDUWKHQRUWKHQGRIWKH&RXQW\RZQHG WUDYHUVHV1LDZDQGDDQG,VOH9LHZ3DUNVEHIRUHUHDFKLQJ ,VOH9LHZ3DUN7KH3DUNLVQRWHGIRULWVODUJHWUHHVSOD\JURXQG 2OPVWHG·V5LYHUVLGH3DUNLQ%XIIDOR&RQWLQXLQJVRXWKDQG DQGSLFQLFIDFLOLWLHVDQGDWKOHWLFÀHOGV7KHVHSDUNÀHOGVDUH FURVVLQJWR8QLW\,VODQGWKHWUDLOFRQWLQXHVWR%URGHULFN3DUN DOVRXWLOL]HGE\WKHDGMDFHQW7RQDZDQGD-U6U6FKRRO DQG%LUG,VODQG3LHUEHIRUHFURVVLQJEDFNRYHUWKH%ODFN5RFN &DQDODQGFRQWLQXLQJSDVWRUQHDURWKHUNH\GHVWLQDWLRQ 10. TWO MILE CREEK GREENWAY ZDWHUIURQWSDUNVLWHVLQFOXGLQJ2OPVWHG·V)URQW3DUNDQG Erie County /D6DOOH3DUN5HVWDUHDVLQFOXGHD5LYHURYHUORRNQHDUWKH ,QWKH7ZR0LOH&UHHN*UHHQZD\ZDVFRPSOHWHGE\WKH *HQHUDO0RWRUVIDFLOLW\DQGSHULRGLFÀVKLQJVSRWVDORQJWKH &RXQW\SURYLGLQJDNH\UHFUHDWLRQDOOLQNIURPWKH5LYHUZDONDW KLVWRULF(ULH&DQDOUHWDLQLQJZDOO7RZ3DWK3DUNLVDDFUH 1LDZDQGDDQG,VOH9LHZ3DUNVWR6KHULGDQ3DUNLQ7RQDZDQGD FRXQW\RZQHGIDFLOLW\DWWKHIRRWRI+HUWHO$YHQXHWKDWDOVR 7ZR0LOH&UHHNFRQQHFWVWRWKH6KHUZRRG*UHHQZD\ZKLFK SURYLGHVÀVKLQJRSSRUWXQLWLHV UHFRQQHFWVEDFNWRWKH5LYHUZDONDWWKHIRRWRI6KHULGDQ'ULYH

8. NIAWANDA PARK City of Tonawanda Niawanda Park is a linear park located along the shore of the 1LDJDUD5LYHURQWKHVLWHRIWKHDEDQGRQHG(ULH&DQDODQG 7RZSDWKLQWKH&LW\RI7RQDZDQGD7KHVLWHFRQQHFWVWRWKH &RXQW\RZQHG,VOH9LHZ3DUNDWWKHRXWOHWRI7ZR0LOHFUHHN DQGLVSULPDULO\XVHGIRUZDONLQJELNLQJERDWODXQFKLQJ ÀVKLQJDFFHVVDQGSLFQLFNLQJ7KHPXOWLXVH5LYHUZDONWUDLO traverses this narrow riverfront property.

View of the Niagara River from the Shoreline Trail

V3-26 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

11. ISLE VIEW PARK 13. AQUA LANE PARK Erie County Town of Tonawanda ,VOH9LHZ3DUNLVDFUHFRXQW\RZQHGGHYHORSHGSDUN $TXD/DQH3DUNLVDDFUHWRZQRZQHGGHYHORSHGSDUNRQ ORFDWHGRQWKHVLWHRIWKHDEDQGRQHG(ULH&DQDODQG7RZSDWK WKH1LDJDUD5LYHUDWWKHIRRWRI6KHULGDQ'ULYH7KLVVPDOO in the Town of Tonawanda. The site was acquired by the VLWHLVVLWXDWHGEHVLGHWKH7RQDZDQGD%RDW+DUERUDQGLV &RXQW\LQDQGLVSULPDULO\XVHGIRUERDWODXQFKLQJ FRQQHFWHGWRWKH5LYHUZDONELNHSDWK ÀVKLQJDFFHVVDQGSLFQLFNLQJ7KHPXOWLXVHWUDLOLVXVHG IRUELNLQJUROOHUEODGLQJVWUROOLQJDQGFURVVFRXQWU\VNLLQJ 14. STRAWBERRY ISLAND/MOTOR ISLAND and is connected to Niawanda Park and the Two Mile Creek NYSDEC Greenway. 7KH6WUDZEHUU\,VODQGDQG0RWRU,VODQG6KDOORZVLVD DFUHVKDOORZZDWHUKDELWDWORFDWHGLQWKH1LDJDUD5LYHUDQG 12. CHERRY FARM PARK RIÀFLDOO\GHVLJQDWHGDVD1HZ

Dock at Isle View Park

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY V3-27 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY FINAL PLAN

CITY OF BUFFALO

15. OLMSTED’S RIVERSIDE PARK City of Buffalo 5LYHUVLGH3DUNLVDKLVWRULFDFUHFLW\RZQHGSDUNGHVLJQHG E\)UHGHULFN/DZ2OPVWHG6UDVSDUWRIWKHLPSUHVVLYHSDUN V\VWHPZLWKLQWKH&LW\RI%XIIDOR2ULJLQDOO\VLWXDWHGRYHUORRNLQJ WKH1LDJDUD5LYHUDQGWKH(ULH&DQDOWKHSDUNLVQRZVHSDUDWHG IURPWKH5LYHUE\WKH1<67KUXZD\ , 7KLVPXOWLSXUSRVH developed park offers many passive and active recreational DFWLYLWLHVLQFOXGLQJZDONLQJSLFQLFNLQJDQGSOD\JURXQGVDV ZHOODVEDVHEDOOVRIWEDOOÀHOGVLFHVNDWLQJVZLPPLQJSRRODQG ZDGLQJSRRODQGDVHQLRUVFHQWHU7KH6KRUHOLQH7UDLOSDVVHV QHDU5LYHUVLGH3DUNFRQQHFWHGE\DSHGHVWULDQEULGJHRYHU WKHKLJKZD\$VHULHVRIULYHURYHUORRNVKDYHEHHQFRQVWUXFWHG DORQJ5LYHU5RDGSURYLGLQJYLHZVRYHUWKH1LDJDUD5LYHU7KH SDUN LV OLVWHG RQ WKH 1DWLRQDO 5HJLVWHU RI +LVWRULF 3ODFHV

16. BLACK ROCK CANAL PARK Erie County %ODFN 5RFN &DQDO 3DUN IRUPHUO\ NQRZQ DV WKH 2QWDULR 6WUHHW %RDW /DXQFK DQG &RUQHOLXV &UHHN 3DUN EHFDPH D FRPELQHGSDUNLQ3DUWRIWKHUHFUHDWLRQDO6KRUHOLQH 7UDLO V\VWHP WKH SDUN DWWUDFWV D ZLGH UDQJH RI SDUN XVHUV LQFOXGLQJÀVKHUPDQERDWHUVGRJRZQHUVDQGFDVXDOSDUN JRHUV7KHSDUNIHDWXUHVDQHZO\UHQRYDWHGERDWODXQFKWZR separate fenced in ‘bark park’ areas (large dogs and small GRJV  DQG DQ $YLDQ ZDONZD\ FHOHEUDWLQJ WKH LQWHUQDWLRQDO migratory of birds. The park’s spectacular views of the Niagara 5LYHU DQG VKRUHOLQH DWWUDFWV PDQ\ IURP WKH FRPPXQLW\ to enjoy the waterfront scenery and summer sunsets.

17. TOW PATH PARK Erie County $KLGGHQJHPDWWKHIRRWRI+HUWHO$YHQXHDORQJWKHVKRUHOLQHRI WKH1LDJDUD5LYHU7RZ3DWK3DUNRIIHUVH[FHOOHQWZHVWHUO\YLHZV RIWKH1LDJDUD5LYHUDQGDGMDFHQW5LFK0DULQD7RZSDWK3DUN LVDVPDOODFUH&RXQW\RZQHGSDUNZKLFKLVDSSURSULDWHO\ QDPHGIRUWKHKLVWRULFWRZSDWKZKLFKRQFHSDVVHGWKURXJK WKLVDUHDIROORZLQJEHVLGHWKH(ULH&DQDO7KHVPDOO´SRFNHW SDUNµLVSULPDULO\SDVVLYHLQQDWXUHDQGLVSRSXODUIRUÀVKLQJ SLFQLFNLQJDQGDVDUHVWLQJDUHDDORQJWKH5LYHUZDONV\VWHP

18. JESSE KREGAL PATHWAY Joint Venture - County, State, City of Buffalo 7KH-HVVH.UHJDO3DWKZD\ IRUPHUO\NQRZQDVWKH6FDMDTXDGD 7UDLO LVDQLQODQGOLQNFRQQHFWLQJWKH6KRUHOLQH7UDLOWR 2OPVWHG·V'HODZDUH3DUNDQG%XIIDOR·V0XVHXP'LVWULFW

Promenade at Black Rock Canal Park

V3-28 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

View of the Niagara River from Unity Island

19. UNITY ISLAND PARK 21. BIRD ISLAND PIER City of Buffalo United States Army Corps of Engineers 8QLW\ ,VODQG 3DUN LV D FLW\RZQHG ZDWHUIURQW SURSHUW\ 7KHEUHDNZDWHUEHWZHHQWKH1LDJDUD5LYHUDQG%ODFN5RFN ORFDWHG DGMDFHQW WR WKH %ODFN 5RFN &DQDO /RFNV DQG &DQDOLVNQRZQDVWKH%LUG,VODQG3LHU7KHSLHULVDFFHVVLEOH DFFHVVLEOH E\ EULGJH IURP 1LDJDUD 6WUHHW 8QLW\ ,VODQG IURP%URGHULFN3DUNDQGFDQEHZDONHGIRUDOPRVWPLOHV 3DUN LV SDUW RI WKH 6KRUHOLQH 7UDLO 6\VWHP DQG LV D along the river’s edge. This pedestrian route affords unique QDWXUDOL]HG SDUN IRU ILVKLQJ ELUGZDWFKLQJ DQG SLFQLFNLQJ DQG DZHVRPH YLHZV RI WKH /DNH 5LYHU DQG &DQDO IURP EHQHDWKWKH3HDFH%ULGJHDQGRIIVKRUHIURP/D6DOOH3DUN 20. BRODERICK PARK - UNDERGROUND RAILROAD 7RKLJKOLJKWWKH1LDJDUD5LYHULVDQ,PSRUWDQW%LUG$UHD ,%$  FREEDOM MEMORIAL DQGLVRQHRIWKHEHVWSODFHVLQ1RUWK$PHULFDIRUYLHZLQJ City of Buffalo JXOOVDQGZDWHUIRZO7KHVLWHLVZHOONQRZQE\1LDJDUD5HJLRQ %URGHULFN 3DUN DQG WKH EDQNV RI WKH 1LDJDUD 5LYHU KROG birders as one of the few viewing locations along the built- D VSHFLDO SODFH LQ %XIIDOR·V KLVWRU\ 'XULQJ WKH HDUO\ WR XS%XIIDORULYHUIURQW,WLVDOVRDSRSXODUVSRWVIRUÀVKLQJ PLG·V WKLV DUHD ZDV RQH RI WKH FURVVLQJ SRLQWV IRU escaping slaves on their journey to freedom across the river 22. OLMSTED’S FRONT PARK LQ&DQDGD,QWKH%URGHULFN3DUNVLWHWRRNRQQDWLRQDO City of Buffalo VLJQLÀFDQFHDVWKH8QGHUJURXQG5DLOURDG)UHHGRP0HPRULDO )URQW 3DUN LV D DFUH FLW\RZQHG 2OPVWHG SDUN LQ WKH ZKLFK LQFOXGHV D KHULWDJH PHPRULDO FRPPHPRUDWLQJ WKH &LW\ RI %XIIDOR OLVWHG RQ WKH 1DWLRQDO UHJLVWHU RI +LVWRULF island’s role as one of the staging areas and destinations 3ODFHV /RFDWHG RYHUORRNLQJ WKH 1LDJDUD 5LYHU DQG /DNH IRU WKH 8QGHUJURXQG 5DLOURDG 7KLV LPSUHVVLYH VLWH LV DOVR (ULH DQG1<67KUXZD\ WKHSDUNZDVRQFHZLGHO\XVHGIRU DSRSXODUÀVKLQJDFFHVVSRLQWDQGRIIHUVLQIRUPDOVHDWLQJ FHUHPRQLHVDQGRWKHUFLYLFGLVSOD\VEXWLVQRZLQFUHDVLQJO\ DUHDVQDWXUDOL]HGSODQWLQJVDQGDVPDOOFRQFHVVLRQEXLOGLQJ HQFURDFKHG XSRQ E\ WKH VXUURXQGLQJ URDG QHWZRUN ZKLFK LQFOXGHVDFFHVVWRWKH3HDFH%ULGJH7RGD\WKHIUDPHZRUN RI WKH KLVWRULF 2OPVWHG GHVLJQ UHPDLQV DOWKRXJK URDGZD\ alterations and the addition of playing fields and park maintenance structures have changed its character and uses.

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY V3-29 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY FINAL PLAN

23. FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT BOATHOUSE 26. BUFFALO AND ERIE COUNTY NAVAL MILITARY PARK Joint Venture – City of Buffalo/Erie County City of Buffalo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ity of Buffalo PHPEHUVKLSVDQGGRQDWLRQVDGPLVVLRQIHHVVKLS·VVWRUH /RFDWHGDWWKHQRUWKHQGRI/D6DOOH3DUNWKH&RORQHO:DUG3XPSLQJ events bookings. The park hosts overnight encampments 6WDWLRQEXLOGLQJLVDPDJQLÀFHQWLQGXVWULDOKHULWDJHVWUXFWXUH IRU XS WR  \RXWK EHUWKHG DERDUG WKH 866 /LWWOH 5RFN

25. LASALLE PARK 27. ERIE BASIN MARINA City of Buffalo City of Buffalo /D6DOOH 3DUN LV D DFUH FLW\RZQHG PXOWLSXUSRVH SDUN (ULH%DVLQ0DULQDLVRQHRIWKHIDYRULWHVSRWVIRU:HVWHUQ LQ WKH &LW\ RI %XIIDOR VWUDWHJLFDOO\ ORFDWHG RQ /DNH (ULH New Yorkers during the warmer months. The park is a city- DW WKH MXQFWLRQ RI WKH 1LDJDUD 5LYHU &XUUHQWO\ %XIIDOR·V RZQHG IDFLOLW\ RIIHULQJ VHDVRQDO DQG WUDQVLHQW GRFNLQJ D SUHPLHU ZDWHUIURQW SDUN WKH VLWH KRXVHV IHVWLYDOV DQG boat launch and other services for recreational watercrafts FRQFHUWV DQG SURYLGHV QXPHURXV VSRUWV ILHOGV DV ZHOO LQ WKH &LW\ RI %XIIDOR /RFDWHG DW WKH IRRW RI (ULH 6WUHHW DV ELNLQJ UROOHUEODGLQJ DQG VWUROOLQJ RQ WKH 5LYHUZDON QHDUWKHKHDUWRI%XIIDOR·VGRZQWRZQWKH(ULH%DVLQODQGV include an observation tower and public greenspace. ,WLVORFDWHGFORVHWR:DWHUIURQW9LOODJHDPL[HGXVHGHYHORSPHQW ORFDWHGDGMDFHQWWR%XIIDOR·V&HQWUDO%XVLQHVV'LVWULFW7KH %XIIDOR5LYHUIURQWDJHDOVRVHUYHVDVWKHGHSDUWXUHSRLQWIRU FUXLVHERDWVWKDWWRXUWKH%ODFN5RFN&DQDODQG/DNH(ULH

Lasalle Park

V3-30 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

28. BUFFALO RIVER CORRIDOR - INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE TRAIL City of Buffalo 7KHKLVWRULFJUDLQHOHYDWRUVDUHORFDWHGDORQJWKH%XIIDOR5LYHU MXVWVRXWKDQGHDVWRI'RZQWRZQ%XIIDOR2QFHDEXVWOLQJ LQGXVWULDODUHDWKHHOHYDWRUVDQGLQGXVWULDOEXLOGLQJVVWDQGDV IDVFLQDWLQJUHPLQGHUVRIWKHDUHD·VKLVWRU\DVRQHRI$PHULFD·V greatest working waterfronts. These impressive structures KDYH EHHQ VWXGLHG DQG DGPLUHG ZRUOGZLGH E\ DUFKLWHFWV structural engineers and history buffs as one of the great innovations in architectural design form and use of materials.

29. BUFFALO RIVER PARKS Erie County Erie County has continued to take a leadership role in the preservation and enhancement of the environment along WKH %XIIDOR 5LYHU 7KLV IRUPHU LQGXVWULDOL]HG FRUULGRU KDV seen much improvement with regard to water quality and habitat restoration. The County has worked closely with WKH &LW\ RI %XIIDOR 1HZ

View of the Buffalo River at Red Jacket Riverfront Park

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY V3-31 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY FINAL PLAN

30. SOUTH BUFFALO REDEVELOPMENT AREA VFXOSWXUDOODQGIRUPVLQWRWKHGHVLJQ$ODUJHPRXQGZLWKD Joint Venture – City of Buffalo/County, State spiral pathway allows for bicycle and pedestrian access to 7KH &LW\ RI %XIIDOR LV SURFHHGLQJ ZLWK WKH 6RXWK %XIIDOR a lake overlook with unprecedented sunset views over the 5HGHYHORSPHQWSURMHFWZKLFKLVRQHRIWKHODUJHVWEURZQÀHOGV VWRQHEUHDNZDOOWRWKHRSHQODNH8QLTXH´IRUWOLNHµHDUWKZRUN initiatives in New York state and has maintained its commitment formations are part of a natural playground and environmental to the redevelopment of the former steel/industrial lands. HGXFDWLRQDUHD7KHSURMHFWZDVRQHRI%XIIDOR·VÀUVWSDUNV GHVLJQHGWREHDQDWXUDOLVWLF´QRPRZµODQGVFDSHZLWKDOO 31. HISTORIC BUFFALO LIGHTHOUSE native plantings and minimal maintenance requirements. Buffalo Lighthouse Association 7KH %XIIDOR /LJKWKRXVH LV ORFDWHG DW WKH PRXWK RI WKH 34. BUFFALO OUTER HARBOR WATERFRONT TRAIL %XIIDOR 5LYHU DW WKH QRUWK HQG RI WKH 2XWHU +DUERU ODQGV City of Buffalo DGMDFHQW WR WKH &RDVW *XDUG 6WDWLRQ %XLOW LQ  WR $NH\IHDWXUHRIWKH2XWHU+DUERUWKHPXOWLSXUSRVH UHSODFH D VPDOOHU OLJKWKRXVH FRQVWUXFWHG LQ  WKH ZDWHUIURQWWUDLOFRQQHFWVMRJJHUVELNHUVDQGUROOHUEODGHUV OLJKWKRXVHLVOLVWHGLQWKH1DWLRQDO5HJLVWHURI+LVWRULF3ODFHV ZLWKGHVWLQDWLRQVOLNH%XIIDOR+DUERU6WDWH3DUN:LONHVRQ 3RLQWHDQGWKH+LVWRULF%XIIDOR/LJKWKRXVH 32. TIMES BEACH NATURE PRESERVE City of Buffalo/County 35. BUFFALO HARBOR STATE PARK 7LPHV%HDFKLVVWUDWHJLFDOO\ORFDWHGQHDUWKHQRUWKHQGRIWKH New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation 2XWHU+DUERURQ/DNH(ULHDWWKHPRXWKRIWKH%XIIDOR5LYHU,WLV 7KHQHZHVWVWDWHSDUNLQWKHV\VWHP%XIIDOR+DUERU6WDWH3DUN DWWKHQRUWKHQGRI)XKUPDQQ%RXOHYDUG7KHVLWHLVGHYHORSHG LVWKHÀUVWVWDWHSDUNLQWKH&LW\RI%XIIDOR%RDVWLQJEHDXWLIXO ZLWKERDUGZDONVDQGWUDLOVIRUELUGLQJ SDUWLFXODUO\VKRUHELUGV YLHZVRI/DNH(ULHWKHSDUNLVKRPHWRDVOLSPDULQD and other wildlife viewing. The park is owned by the City of DUHVWDXUDQWERDWODXQFKHVSHUVRQDOZDWHUFUDIWODXQFKHV %XIIDORDQGLVPDLQWDLQHGE\ERWKWKH&LW\DQGWKH&RXQW\RI(ULH ÀVKFOHDQLQJVWDWLRQUHVWURRPVDQGDEHDFKIRUVWUROOLQJDQG VXQEDWKLQJ7RZDUGVWKHVRXWKHQGRIWKHSDUNLVDSOD\JURXQG 33. WILKESON POINTE WZRSLFQLFSDYLOLRQVDVWDJHDUHDELNHUDFNVDQGODQGVFDSLQJ City of Buffalo One of the latest and most popular open space and public 36. TIFFT NATURE PRESERVE DFFHVVLQLWLDWLYHVDORQJ%XIIDOR·V2XWHU+DUERURQ/DNH(ULH City of Buffalo /Buffalo Museum of Science 7KLVEURZQÀHOGVUHGHYHORSPHQWSURMHFWXWLOL]HGLQQRYDWLYH 7LIIW1DWXUH3UHVHUYHLVDFUHFLW\RZQHGQDWXUHSUHVHUYHLQ methods for on-site material capping and stormwater run- WKH6RXWK%XIIDORDUHD/RFDWHGRQEURZQÀHOGODQGVIRUPHUO\ RIIDQGLQFRUSRUDWHGXQLTXHDUWLVWLFZLQGVFXOSWXUHVDQG RFFXSLHGE\LQGXVWULDOFDQDOVDQGVOLSVWKH3UHVHUYHLQFOXGHV

Boardwalk at Times Beach Nature Preserve

V3-32 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

DFUH RI PDUVKODQG DQG RSHQ ZDWHU SRQGV DORQJ ZLWK 38. Shoreline Trail - Bethlehem Steel ZRRGODQGVWKLFNHWVDQGJUDVV\ÀHOGVDQGLVRQDSULPDU\ Erie County PLJUDWLRQURXWHIRUZDWHUIRZOZDUEOHUVDQGSDVVHULQHV7KHVLWH 1HZ 6KRUHOLQH 7UDLO H[WHQVLRQ ZLOO H[WHQG WUDLO IURP WKH LVWKHODUJHVWQDWXUHSUHVHUYHLQWKH&LW\RI%XIIDORDQGRQHRI 2XWHU +DUERU WR HYHQWXDOO\ D IXWXUH FRQQHFWLRQ ZLWK the largest and only urban nature preserves within any city in the :RRGODZQ %HDFK 6WDWH 3DUN DQG WKH 7RZQ RI +DPEXUJ 8QLWHG6WDWHV7KLVVLWHLVPDQDJHGE\WKH%XIIDOR0XVHXPRI 6FLHQFH7KH&LW\RI%XIIDOR&RPSUHKHQVLYH3ODQUHFRPPHQGV TOWN OF HAMBURG the improvement of connections between the Tifft Nature 5HVHUYHDQG7LPHV%HDFKDWWKHPRXWKRIWKH%XIIDOR5LYHU 39. WOODLAWN BEACH STATE PARK New York State /Town of Hamburg CITY OF LACKAWANNA :RRGODZQ%HDFK6WDWH3DUNRIIHUVDRQHPLOHORQJVDQGEHDFK ZLWKORYHO\SDQRUDPLFYLHZVDQGVSHFWDFXODUVXQVHWV,WLV 37. REDEVELOPMENT OF BETHLEHEM STEEL PROPERTY WKHODUJHVWVDQGEHDFKFORVHVWWR%XIIDOR$VPDOOFRUULGRURI Erie County underbrush that covers the dunes along the beach provides 7KHIRUPHU%HWKOHKHP6WHHO&RPSDQ\RFFXSLHGRYHU cover for migrant birds in spring and fall. Two small streams DFUHV RI ODQG LQ /DFNDZDQQD ,Q  WKH %HWKOHKHP HPSW\LQWR/DNH(ULHQHDUWKHQRUWKHQG$EHDFKUHODWHGIDFLOLW\ 6WHHO &RUSRUDWLRQ DQQRXQFHG D FRPSUHKHQVLYH /DQG LQFOXGLQJ UHVWURRPV FRQFHVVLRQV DQG PHHWLQJ URRPV ZDV 5HGHYHORSPHQW 3ODQ WKDW FRXOG HYHQWXDOO\ FRQYHUW  UHFHQWO\FRPSOHWHGE\WKH6WDWH7KHSDUNLVRSHUDWHGE\WKH7RZQ DFUHVRILWVODQGKROGLQJVLQWRDFRPPHUFLDOLQGXVWULDODUHD RI+DPEXUJWKURXJKDSDUWQHUVKLSDJUHHPHQWZLWK1<635+3 with a distribution and transshipment center. The development ZRXOGLQFOXGHDFUHVRIJUHHQZD\DQGUHFUHDWLRQDOXVHV 40. ATHOL SPRINGS LAKEFRONT AREA GHVLJQHG WR UHFRQQHFW WKH FRPPXQLW\ ZLWK WKH ZDWHUIURQW Town of Hamburg LQFOXGLQJ D QHZ UHJLRQDO PDULQD WKH UHDOLJQPHQW RI $WKRO 6SULQJV LV D VPDOO SRUWLRQ RI WKH 7RZQ RI +DPEXUJ 6PRNHV &UHHN HQKDQFHPHQW RI WKH 5RXWH  FRUULGRU D OLWWOH OHVV WKDQ  PLOHV VRXWK RI 'RZQWRZQ %XIIDOR DQG QHZ SXEOLF DFFHVV YLD D *UHHQZD\ DORQJ 6PRNHV &UHHN PLOHV VRXWK RI :RRGODZQ %HDFK 6WDWH 3DUN 6LWXDWHG RQ D EOXII RYHUORRNLQJ /DNH (ULH WKH DUHD LV SURPRWHG by birders for observation of gulls and other waterfowl.

Wilkeson Pointe at sunset

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY V3-33 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY FINAL PLAN

41. HAMBURG TOWN PARK 44. WENDT BEACH Town of Hamburg Erie County +DPEXUJ 7RZQ 3DUN LV D DFUH WRZQRZQHG GHYHORSHG :HQGW%HDFKLVDDFUHFRXQW\RZQHGPXOWLSXUSRVHSDUN SDUNORFDWHGRQ/DNH(ULHLQWKHKDPOHWRI0RXQW9HUQRQ located on Lake Erie and connects to regional waterfront parks MXVW VRXWK RI $WKRO 6SULQJV 7KH SDUN LQFOXGHV D EHDFK DQGDWWUDFWLRQVYLDWKH6KRUHOLQH7UDLO7KHSDUNLVORFDWHGRQ ZDONLQJELNLQJDQGQDWXUHWUDLOVSLFQLFNLQJDQGRWKHUUHODWHG WKHIRUPHU:HQGWHVWDWHDQGLQFOXGHVWKHROG:HQGWPDQVLRQ IDFLOLWLHV DQG LV SURPRWHG DORQJ ZLWK $WKRO 6SULQJV IRU LWV a historic structure that was also once used as a stagecoach birdwatching opportunities. The sandy beach is patrolled VWRS7KHSDUNLQFOXGHVWZRGLVWLQFWKDOYHVWKHZHVWHUQVHFWLRQ DQG RIIHUV VDIH VZLPPLQJ D VQDFN EDU FKDQJH URRPV LQFOXGHVWKHPDQVLRQDQGLWVYDULRXVRXWEXLOGLQJVDVKDOH DQG UHVW URRPV $GMDFHQW WR WKH VZLPPLQJ DUHD LV D ERDW EHDFKYHJHWDWHGGXQHVQDWXUDOZRRGODQGDUHDVDQGRWKHU ODXQFK ZLWK D VSHFLDO DUHD UHVHUYHG IRU ZLQGVXUIHUV 7KH beach related facilities. The easternmost section includes SDUN LV OLPLWHG WR XVH E\ 7RZQ RI +DPEXUJ UHVLGHQWV RQO\ ZLGHRSHQOHYHOODZQDUHDVWKDWLVSULPDULO\XVHGIRUVRFFHU

42. EIGHTEEN MILE CREEK 45. BENNETT BEACH Erie County Erie County 7KH 1HZ

Trail at Eighteen Mile Creek Park

V3-34 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

47. EVANS TOWN PARK TOWN OF BRANT Town of Evans (YDQV 7RZQ 3DUN LV DQ DFUH WRZQRZQHG GHYHORSHG 49. EVANGOLA STATE PARK park located on Lake Erie. This multi-purpose park offers New York State PDQ\GLYHUVHIRUPVRIUHFUHDWLRQLQFOXGLQJVZLPPLQJDQG (YDQJROD6WDWH3DUNLVDFUHVWDWHRZQHGSDUNORFDWHGLQ EHDFK DFWLYLWLHV WHQQLV YROOH\EDOO EDVNHWEDOO EDVHEDOO WKH7RZQVRI%UDQWDQG(YDQV,WVPDLQDWWUDFWLRQLVLWVEHDXWLIXO UROOHU KRFNH\ KRUVHVKRHV SLFQLFNLQJ DQG SOD\JURXQGV VKRUHOLQHDQGQDWXUDOVDQGEHDFKOLQHGZLWKORZVKDOHFOLIIV These activities are supported by a comfort station. located on Lake Erie. The park offers a guarded beach for VDIHVZLPPLQJQDWXUHWUDLOVSLFQLFIDFLOLWLHVEDVHEDOODQG 48. LAKE ERIE BEACH VRFFHUÀHOGVWHQQLVDQGEDVNHWEDOOFRXUWVDQGFDPSVLWHV Town of Evans 6QRZPRELOLQJKXQWLQJDQGFURVVFRXQWU\VNLLQJDUHDOVRRIIHUHG /DNH (ULH %HDFK 3DUN LV  DFUH WRZQRZQHG DQG GHYHORSHG SDUN LQ WKH 7RZQ RI (YDQV )DFLOLWLHV LQFOXGH D JXDUGHG EHDFK SOD\ DUHDV SLFQLFNLQJ DQG ILVKLQJ DFFHVV $ SHGHVWULDQ EULGJH RYHU 0XGG\ &UHHN ZDV FRQVWUXFWHG WR DOORZ SXEOLF DFFHVV WR DSSUR[LPDWHO\ DFUHV RI VKRUHOLQH 7KH SURMHFW LQFOXGHV D SLFQLF DUHD OLJKWLQJ landscaping and other associated site improvements.

Wendt Beach Park

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY V3-35 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY FINAL PLAN

4.4 POLICY DIRECTION 4.5 WATERFRONT PARK SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS 4.4.1 WATERFRONT PLANNING The following are general recommendations that apply to The waterfront strategy for the Erie County parks should build WKH&RXQW\ZDWHUIURQWODQGKROGLQJV6SHFLÀFSDUNE\SDUN on the goals and recommendations provided in previous recommendations for key waterfront sites can be found in waterfront plans for the Erie County Waterfront. Due to 9ROXPH FKDQJHV LQ WKH HFRQRPLF SLFWXUH RYHU WKH ODVW WHQ \HDUV VSHFLÀFFRPSRQHQWVUHODWLQJWRPDUNHWGHPDQGDQGHFRQRPLF 4.5.1 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT SURMHFWLRQV QHHG WR EH XSGDWHG 1RWZLWKVWDQGLQJ WKLV WKH principles and underlying framework for a comprehensive and 7KH 1LDJDUD 5LYHU KDV EHHQ GHVLJQDWHG WKH )LUVW *OREDOO\ linked system of waterfront activity centers are still viable. 6LJQLILFDQW ,PSRUWDQW %LUG $UHD ,%$  LQ WKH UHJLRQ DV 3URJUHVVLVEHLQJPDGHDQGDQXPEHURIVLJQLÀFDQWSURMHFWV LGHQWLILHG E\ WKH 1DWLRQDO $XGXERQ 6RFLHW\ 86 SDUWQHUV E\ DOO OHYHOV RI JRYHUQPHQW DORQJ /DNH (ULH WKH 1LDJDUD LQ WKH JOREDO ,%$ SURJUDP  6LJQLILFDQW KDELWDW VLWHV RU 5LYHUDQGWKH(ULH&DQDO7KHVHLQGLYLGXDOSURMHFWVFRQWLQXH ´VWRSRYHUVµ DOUHDG\ H[LVW RQ *UDQG ,VODQG %XFNKRUQ to build toward an overall waterfront recreational system. ,VODQG 6WDWH 3DUN  DQG DW WKH 7LIIW 1DWXUH 3UHVHUYH Efforts toward a linked system of waterfront recreation sites and amenities needs to be coordinated within a 6HYHUDO RI WKH &RXQW\ ZDWHUIURQW SDUNV WKH %XIIDOR 5LYHU planning strategy that promotes sound decisions in land use 3DUNV :HQGW %HDFK DQG %HQQHWW %HDFK LQFOXGH QDWXUDO SODQQLQJ WUDQVSRUWDWLRQ DQG HQYLURQPHQWDO PDQDJHPHQW environment areas that contribute to the system. These sites and other County waterfront parks and open space areas 4.4.2 MANAGEMENT OF THE WATERFRONT FRXOGDOVRSURYLGHVRPHFRQWULEXWLRQVWRWKH,%$7KH&RXQW\ RECREATION SYSTEM should incorporate an underlying ecological framework IRU LWV ZDWHUIURQW SDUN V\VWHP DQG WKH GHYHORSPHQW RI The waterfront County Parks and their inter-linking recreational ZLOGOLIHDUHDVDQGVSHFLDOL]HGZDWHUIRZODQGPLJUDWRU\ELUG trails and greenways are key destinations within the overall habitat enhancement areas should be considered in the ZDWHUIURQWSODQZKLFKDOVRLQFOXGHVVWDWHDQGORFDOSDUNV GHYHORSPHQWUHGHYHORSPHQW RI QHZ ZDWHUIURQW VLWHV )RU DQGODQGKROGLQJV,QWKH&RXQW\DJUHHGWRWDNHRYHU H[LVWLQJ VPDOO SDUNV DQG RSHQ VSDFH DUHDV WKLV PD\ EH PDQDJHPHQW RI WKUHH &LW\ RI %XIIDOR ZDWHUIURQW SDUNV limited to the encouragement of meadow and regeneration %URGHULFN3DUN2QWDULR6WUHHW%RDW/DXQFKDQG7RZ3DWK3DUN DUHDV WKURXJK UHGXFHG PRZLQJ LQ VSHFLILF ORFDWLRQV )RU $OWKRXJKVPDOOLQVFDOHWKHVHVLWHVQRQHWKHOHVVFRQWULEXWHDV ODUJHU VLWHV WKH GHVLJQ VKRXOG LQFRUSRUDWH PHDVXUHV WKDW ¶ZLQGRZVRQWKHZDWHU·RUDVSDUWRIWKHOLQHDU6KRUHOLQH7UDLO WDUJHWVSHFLÀFKDELWDWW\SHVVXFKDVZHWODQGRUIRUHVWKDELWDW 6\VWHPFRQWULEXWHWRWKHRYHUDOOZDWHUIURQWJUHHQZD\V\VWHP 0DQDJHPHQWRI%URGHULFN3DUNKDVVLQFHEHHQUHWXUQHGWR 4.5.2 ACCESS AND LINKAGES WKH&LW\RI%XIIDOR7KH&RXQW\KDVDOVRSDUWQHUHGZLWKWKH 1HZ

4.6 CONCLUSIONS

*LYHQLWVUROHZLWKLQWKHRYHUDOOSODQQLQJRIWKHUHJLRQWKH County needs to assume a leading position in working with RWKHU OHYHOV RI JRYHUQPHQW DQG VSHFLILFDOO\ WKH 1LDJDUD

V3-36 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE VOLUME 3

5LYHU *UHHQZD\ &RPPLVVLRQ WR HQVXUH WKDW ZDWHUIURQW The County-owned and/or managed waterfront park GHYHORSPHQWLVXQGHUWDNHQLQDFRPSUHKHQVLYHDQGXQLÀHG system already represents a significant part of the manner. The waterfront strategy should build on past County Park operational costs. The ability of any planned ZDWHUIURQWSODQQLQJHIIRUWVDQGZRUNWRZDUGVWKHXQGHUO\LQJ ZDWHUIURQW UHYLWDOL]DWLRQ WR JHQHUDWH WRXULVP SRWHQWLDO SULQFLSOHV RI HFRQRPLF UHQHZDO SXEOLF DFFHVVLELOLW\ and economic renewal for the region will be substantially recreation enhancement and environmental conservation. based on the quality of the recreational experience for prospective residents and visitors. This will require a 7KH 1LDJDUD 5LYHU *UHHQZD\ &RPPLVVLRQ 15*&  VKRXOG KLJK VWDQGDUG RI SDUN GHYHORSPHQW DFFRPSDQLHG E\ be considered a major partner for the County in its a high standard of management and maintenance. SODQQLQJ HIIRUWV RI WKH ZDWHUIURQW 7KH 15*& SULRULWL]HV WKH FRPSOHWLRQ DQG HQKDQFHPHQW RI PXOWLXVH WUDLOV )XWXUH &RXQW\ GHFLVLRQV FRQFHUQLQJ QHZ ZDWHUIURQW designed to encourage connectivity to link upland ODQG DFTXLVLWLRQV RU WKH DVVXPSWLRQ RI PDQDJHPHQW RI and LQWHULRU FRPPXQLWLHV WR DFFHVV WKH ZDWHUIURQW DV H[LVWLQJ SDUNV DQG RSHQ VSDFH DUHDV VKRXOG WKHUHIRUH ZHOO DV ZRUNLQJ WR UHVWRUH HFRORJLFDO KHDOWK WR WKH consider the mission and mandate of the Erie County Parks VKRUHOLQH 6\VWHP DQG VKRXOG HQVXUH WKH SURYLVLRQ RI DGHTXDWH funds to manage and operate them to a high standard. ,WZRXOGDSSHDUWKDWWKHUHLVDUROHWREHSOD\HGIRUDOOOHYHOV RIJRYHUQPHQW/RFDO&RXQW\DQG6WDWHERWKLQSODQQLQJDQG 6SHFLILF UHFRPPHQGDWLRQV IRU SDUNV LPSURYHPHQWV DUH implementing the waterfront recreation system as well as in SURYLGHG LQ 9ROXPH  +RZHYHU DV D JHQHUDO QRWH LW LV managing and maintaining the existing parks and the ones recommended that visual and physical connections within the to follow. Capital investment that is not followed by adequate H[LVWLQJZDWHUIURQWSDUNDQGWUDLOV\VWHPEHLPSURYHGWKURXJK PDLQWHQDQFH LV PRQH\ ZDVWHG DQG ZLOO QRW DFKLHYH WKH YLVLRQRIDSUHPLHUZDWHUIURQWSDUNV\VWHP7KHUHIRUHLWZLOO • Improvements to physical trail connections - road EHLPSRUWDQWIRUDOOVWDNHKROGHUVWRUDWLRQDOL]HWKHUROHVDQG crossings, trail corridors, (shade, fencing, views to lake, UHVSRQVLELOLWLHVQRWRQO\IRUSXUFKDVHDQGFDSLWDOGHYHORSPHQW rest areas), revisiting trail routing where land uses have EXWIRUWKHRQJRLQJPDQDJHPHQWRIWKHYDULRXVVLWHVWREH changed; in keeping with their mandate for the provision of recreation. • Improved opportunities to access the water for 7KH &RXQW\ VKRXOG FRQWLQXH WR HQFRXUDJH WKH 6WDWH general viewing purposes and potential water related to assume a prominent role in the management of recreational activities. VLJQLILFDQW VLWHV WKDW DUH LQ NHHSLQJ ZLWK WKH RYHUDOO 6WDWH Park system and open space conservation objectives.

Big Sister Creek at Bennett Beach

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 4.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY V3-37 7+,63$*(,17(17,21$//</()7%/$1.

V3-38 5.0 WATERFRONT TRAIL SYSTEM FINAL PLAN

WATERFRONT TRAIL SYSTEM

5.1 INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this section is to provide the framework to facilitate the planning, funding, design and construction of future waterfront trail connections and the expansion of the Shoreline Trail as well as other trail systems across the County and Region. The Shoreline Trail System is a continuous network of pathways connecting parks, waterfront areas, businesses and neighborhoods. The Shoreline Trail is both a backbone for waterfront connectivity and the embodiment of a principle. The principle is the belief that open space and waterfront areas are public assets and that generous, green, easily accessible space at the water’s edge is a necessary part of any waterfront development. This study reinforces the vision that someday the recreational trails will pass through all waterfront activity centers throughout the County.

Waterfront trail expansion will provide the following VSHFLÀFEHQHÀWVWRWKHUHVLGHQWVRIWKH&RXQW\DVZHOO DVWKHWRXULVWVZKRYLVLWWKHDUHD

• Increased public access to the waterfront.

• Unprecedented linkage of local attractions, most of which are currently seen as disconnected and isolated from each other and from adjacent land- uses. Shoreline Trail Map • ,QFUHDVHGHFRQRPLFGHYHORSPHQWE\LQFUHDVLQJWUDIÀFDQG therefore the commercial potential of the waterfront. The 5.2 DESCRIPTION AND STATUS Shoreline Trail System is a low-tech, relatively inexpensive ZD\WRH[SDQGWKHXVHDQGSURÀWDELOLW\RIWKH&RXQW\DQGLWV The entire Trail System is comprised of a network of waterfront. individual trail segments that are at various stages of • 5HGXFHGWUDIÀFFRQJHVWLRQE\DOORZLQJDQGHQFRXUDJLQJVDIH development ranging from early conceptual planning to bicycle and pedestrian travel between neighborhoods, the built and in-use. The following text will serve to describe waterfront and various attractions. each segment and its current status. The format places emphasis on the primary waterfront alignment beginning • Increased recreational opportunities and green space for the at the Erie Canal to the north and moving south along the region’s residents, for whom the Shoreline Trail System will be Niagara River, the Inner Harbor and then Lake Erie. Each a symbol of their inclusion in waterfront life. segment is identified with numbers 1 - 13. Letters are XVHGWRLGHQWLI\WKHVLJQLÀFDQWFRQQHFWLQJOLQNDJHVIURP • Increased integration of the County’s recreational adjacent communities to the primary trail, again, beginning RSSRUWXQLWLHVLQFOXGLQJWKH&LW\·VPDJQLÀFHQW2OPVWHG3DUNV which will be linked to the waterfront and to each other in the north and moving south. These linkages include: through the greenway network. A. The Ellicott Creek Trail in the Town of Amherst • Increased educational opportunities through elements such B. Two-Mile Creek Trail in the Town of Tonawanda as the Industrial Heritage Trail on the Buffalo River, historic C. The Sherwood Greenway in the Town of markers along the Trail, linkage to the Cobblestone Historic Tonawanda District in downtown Buffalo and through the impact of simply D. The Beaver Island Bike Path in the Town of Grand bringing the public to areas with such a rich and varied history. Island E. The West River Trail in the Town of Grand Island • Enhanced quality of life and health to the Great Lakes human and wildlife communities as waterfront access leads to public F. The -HVVH.UHJDO3DWKZD\ in the City of Buffalo FRQFHUQIRUWKHDUHDVVLJQLÀFDQWQDWXUDOUHVRXUFHV G. The Industrial Heritage Trail in the City of Buffalo H. The Buffalo River Greenway in the City of Buffalo I. The Lake Road Trail in the Town of Evans

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 5.0 WATERFRONT TRAIL SYSTEM V3-39 5.0 WATERFRONT TRAIL SYSTEM FINAL PLAN

5.3 PRIMARY WATERFRONT RECREATION TRAIL The Erie Canalway Trail is 360 miles of mostly flat, multi- SEGMENTS use trail and on-road segments. The trails eastern terminus is in Albany, NY and connects to The Riverwalk in the (See Waterfront Trail System map at end of section for City of Tonawanda, adjacent to Gateway Harbor. The Erie mapped routes) Canalway Trail and Riverwalk are co-branded from Gateway Harbor to the Buffalo and Erie County Naval Museum. 1. ERIE CANALWAY TRAIL – EMPIRE STATE TRAIL: The key linkages of this segment include: CONSTRUCTED/PROPOSED/ IN USE ʊ Amherst Museum ʊ Amherst Veterans Canal Park Approximately 400 miles of the Empire State Trail already ʊ Ellicott Creek Park exists in discrete, disconnected segments. Empire State ʊ Gateway Harbor Park Trail funding will be utilized to connect existing trails ʊ The Riverwalk into a continuous statewide trail. For example, the Erie Canalway Trail between Buffalo and Albany is 80% done 2. THE RIVERWALK/SHORELINE TRAIL: – Trail funds will “close the gaps”. Wherever possible, the CONSTRUCTED/IN USE Trail is “off -road,” utilizing historic railway routes (e.g. rail- trails) and canal tow paths along sections of the Erie and Probably the most heavily used segment of the entire network, Champlain canals. For the 550 miles from Manhattan to the Riverwalk is approximately 13 miles in length (from the Buffalo, 85% of the Empire State Trail will be off -road. Tonawandas to the City of Buffalo) and traverses the east shore of the Niagara River from the Erie Canal/Tonawanda Creek

MONTREAL

BIKE ROUTE 9 - AUSABLE TO CANADA BORDER Adirondack Park

BIKE ROUTE 9 - PATTERSONVILLE - FORT EDWARD TO AUSABLE UTICA - SCHUYLER CSX CROSSING

CLYDE - PORT OLD ERIE CANAL AMSTERDAM - PATTERSONVILLE BYRON ON-ROAD STATE PARK LAKE GEORGE PENDLETON CONNECTION CAMILLUS VILLAGE OF CLYDE CONNECTION CONNECTION ILION - GLENS FALLS MOHAWK ROME DEWITT BIKE ROUTE 9 - CONNECTION ROCHESTER SARATOGA STILLWATER TO FORT EDWARD PENDLETON CLYDE CAMILLUS DE WITT SPRINGS LITTLE FALLS COHOES - ROME UTICA STILLWATER TRAIL GREEN ISLAND SYRACUSE CONNECTION PORT BYRON BUFFALO MECHANICVILLE SYRACUSE SCHUYLER - ILION CONNECTION TOWN OF LYONS CONNECTION MHBHT GREEN ISLAND CONNECTION CLYDE - PORT MHBHT WATERVLIET BYRON PATH IROQUOIS STREET - FORT HERKIMER PAN AM RAIL ALBANY BUFFALO LYONS - CLYDE CHURCH - LOCK 18 CONNECTION LOCK 18 - TWIN BRIDGES CONNECTION LITTLE FALLS CITY OF HUDSON TO CITY OF RENNSELAER

HUDSON BIKE ROUTE 9 - RHINECLIFF TO CITY OF HUDSON

Catskill Park KINGSTON KINGSTON-RHINECLIFF BRIDGE KINGSTON POINT RAIL TRAIL TO KINGTON-RHINECLIFF BRIDGE

WALLKILL VALLEY RAIL TRAIL TO KINGSTON POUGHKEEPSIE BEACON RAIL TRAIL (BREWSTER TO HOPEWELL JUNCTION)

HUDSON VALLEY PUTNAM-MAYBROOK RAIL TRAIL CONNECTION BREWSTER

LEGEND NORTH COUNTY ROUTE 100 TRAIL Off-Road Trails WAREHOUSE LANE ELMSFORD On-Road Routes MANHATTAN TO VAN CORTLANDT N PARK CONNECTION Miles 8 0102030405 NEW YORK CITY

Proposed Empire State Trail Map

V3-40 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE VOLUME 3

2KLR6WUHHW5HQGHULQJ1RZFRQVWUXFWHG south to downtown Buffalo. This popular segment consists of ʊ Downtown Commercial Areas a generous 13 foot wide pavement that is off-road the entire ʊ The Industrial Heritage Trail length with one exception along Niagara Street. This exception travels “on- road” or “on sidewalk” along Niagara Street from 3. OHIO STREET: CONSTRUCTED Ferry Street to Hampshire Avenue. This condition is proposed IN USE to be improved with the City of Buffalo Niagara Gateway project. This segment begins in downtown Buffalo at Canalside. The key linkages of this segment include: The off-road multi-use trail passes behind the DLW ʊ Niawanda Park Terminal and connects to Ohio Street at the intersection of ʊ Two Mile Creek Greenway Michigan Avenue. This segment terminates at Fuhrmann ʊ Veterans Memorial Park Boulevard at the entrance to Buffalo Harbor State Park. ʊ Isle View County Park ʊ The Grand Island Bike Path The key linkages of this segment include: ʊ The Sherwood Greenway ʊ Canalside ʊ Riverside Park ʊ River Fest Park ʊ Black Rock Canal Park ʊ Conway Park ʊ Towpath Park ʊ Nysdec Kayak Launch ʊ The -HVVH.UHJDO 7UDLO ʊ Tifft Nature Preserve ʊ Unity Island Park ʊ Buffalo Harbor State Park ʊ Broderick Park / Bird Island Pier ʊ The Peace Bridge And Canada’s Trailway Network ʊ Front Park ʊ Lasalle Park ʊ Erie Basin Marina ʊ Buffalo And Erie County Naval Park And Canalside

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 5.0 WATERFRONT TRAIL SYSTEM V3-41 5.0 WATERFRONT TRAIL SYSTEM FINAL PLAN

4. BUFFALO HARBOR STATE PARK/FUHRMANN BLVD: The key linkages of this segment include: CONSTRUCTED / IN USE ʊ Woodlawn Beach Area ʊ Hoover Beach Residential/Restaurant Area This segment runs along the west side of Fuhrmann Boulevard and directly adjacent to the Gallagher Beach area. 9. OLD BIG TREE ROAD TO OLD LAKE SHORE ROAD: PROPOSED The key linkages of this segment include: ʊ Small Boat Harbor This 4.5 mile segment is currently being studied by the ʊ Gallagher Beach NYSDOT for reconstruction of Route 5 between Old Big Tree Road to the north and Old Lake Shore Road to the south. The 5. TIFFT STREET CONNECTION: study is further analyzing three design options, all of which CONSTRUCTED / IN USE include an on-road bicycle accommodation, either a 14’ wide shared lane or a 5’ wide dedicated bike lane. An off-road trail 10’ wide off-road segment along the west edge of is not possible in this segment due to the proposed travel Fuhrmann Boulevard from Gallagher Beach south to the lane designs in relation to the width of the right-of-way and existing pedestrian bridge over the Union Ship Canal. the desires of the waterfront residents along the segment. Sidewalks, however, are proposed on both sides of the road. The key linkages of this segment include: ʊ Gallagher Beach The key linkages of this segment include: ʊ Tifft Nature Preserve ʊ Hamburg Town Park And Beach ʊ The Future Union Ship Canal Development ʊ The Tifft Street Play Fields 0.4 Miles To The East 10. OLD LAKE SHORE ROAD IN HAMBURG: PROPOSED 6. UNION SHIP CANAL TO MILESTRIP ROAD: UNDER CONSTRUCTION 7KLVVHJPHQWLVGHÀQHGE\2OG6KRUH5RDGDW5RXWHRQ the north end, along Old Lakeshore Road south to Eighteen Erie County recently took ownership of a portion of the former Mile Creek, all within the Town of Hamburg. When substantial Bethlehem Steel Site. The County is currently constructing maintenance is planned, the County should consider widening a 12’ wide trail, starting near the City of Lackawanna/ segment to allow for dedicated bike lanes in this section. Buffalo border, running along to the former Bethlehem property. It will be located within a 50’ new right-of-way west 11. TOWN OF EVANS MULTI-USE PATH: of Route 5, terminating at the new Dona Street extension. UNDER CONSTRUCTION/PROPOSED

The key linkages along this segment include: Key linkages of this segment include: ʊ UNION SHIP CANAL • Phase 3B – Eighteen Mile to Sturgeon Point Road ʊ THE FUTURE BETHLEHEM STEEL DEVELOPMENT ʊ Preliminary Design/Not Funded ʊ WOODLAWN BEACH STATE PARK ʊ On-road section/expanded shoulder proposed • Phase 3A – Sturgeon Point to Roat Drive 7. WOODLAWN BEACH: ʊ Under Construction/Funded CONSTRUCTED / IN USE ʊ Completion Dec, 2018 – Off-road 10’ wide trail, with boardwalk in Wendt Beach This 0.5 mile existing asphalt multi-use trail was in • Phase 1 – Road to Bennett Beach approximately 2000, as part of the Milestrip/Route 5 ʊ Constructed/In Use interchange improvements. It meanders along the west side • Phase 2 – Bennett Beach to Evans Town Park of Route 5 directly adjacent to Woodlawn Beach State Park. ʊ Designed/Not Funded • Phase 4 – Evans Town Park to Lake Erie Beach The key linkages of this segment include: ʊ Proposed/Conceptually Designed ʊ Woodlawn Beach State Park • Phase 5 – Lake Erie Beach to Evangola ʊ Proposed/Conceptually Designed 8. HOOVER ROAD AREA: PROPOSED

Approximate one mile segment, running from the Woodlawn trail at the north end of Hoover Road and Route 5 south to Old Big Tree Road and Route 5 (approximately 2/ 3 of a mile) and on-road (approximately 1/3 of a mile) trail segment.

V3-42 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE VOLUME 3

Lakeshore Shoreline Trail Phase 3 Plan and photograph of constructed pedestrian bridge in Town of Evans Shoreline Trail

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 5.0 WATERFRONT TRAIL SYSTEM V3-43 5.0 WATERFRONT TRAIL SYSTEM FINAL PLAN

12. EVANGOLA STATE PARK: The following segments represented by letters CONSTRUCTED / IN USE and beginning in the north and moving south, identify the significant connecting linkage from the There is an existing 1.2 mile, 8’ wide off-road multi-use adjacent communities to the primary waterfront trail. asphalt trail in this segment of the Regional Waterfront Trail System. New York State owns and maintains this trail as it A. ELLICOTT CREEK TRAILWAY: runs along Old Lake Shore Road through Evangola State Park. CONSTRUCTED / IN USE There are other trails in Evangola State Park that connect this trail to the beach. Constructed mainly within the Town of Amherst, this very popular off-road multi-use trail link is approximately 5 13. EVANGOLA PARK TO THE CATTARAUGUS INDIAN miles long and runs from the Maple Road/North Forest RESERVATION: trailhead, northwest along the meandering Ellicott Creek NEITHER PROPOSED OR FUNDED to Niagara Falls Boulevard across from Ellicott Creek Park. The Town of Amherst maintains this segment. An extension This 1.1 mile segment along Old Lake Shore Road between of this trail through Ellicott Creek Park in Tonawanda was Evangola State Park and the Cattaraugus Indian Reservation, completed in 2001. It terminates at the Erie Canalway Trail. LVWKHÀQDOJDSLQWKHHQWLUH:DWHUIURQW5HJLRQDO7UDLO6\VWHP To date, there is no proposal to complete the link, however, The key linkages of this segment include: there appears to be ample space to continue the off-road ʊ Amherst Memorial Hill Grove pathway from Evangola State Park along the west side of Old ʊ Town Of Amherst Municipal Golf Course Lake Shore Road. ʊ Amherst Pepsi Center ʊ University At Buffalo, North Campus ʊ Route 62, Niagara Falls Boulevard ʊ Ellicott Creek County Park ʊ Erie Canalway Trail

Ellicott Creek Trailway within Ellicott Creek Park

V3-44 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE VOLUME 3

B. TWO MILE CREEK GREENWAY: C. SHERWOOD GREENWAY: CONSTRUCTED / IN USE CONSTRUCTED / IN USE

This trail linkage, approximately 2 miles in length, is This trailway linkage is 1.8 mile off- road multi- situated along Two Mile Creek through the Town and City of use recreational pathway that extends the Two Mile Tonawanda. The south end, approximately 0.5 miles is on- Creek Greenway to the Riverwalk at Sheridan Drive. road, adjacent to the Town golf course, with the balance of the trail off-road, meandering along either side of the Creek The key linkages of this segment include: northward to the Niagara River and the Riverwalk. This ʊ Sheridan Park/Golf Course Greenway is maintained by the Erie County Parks Department. ʊ Two Mile Creek Greenway ʊ The Riverwalk The key linkages of this segment include: ʊ Sheridan Park/Golf Course D. BEAVER ISLAND BIKE PATH: ʊ The Sherwood Greenway CONSTRUCTED / IN USE ʊ Veterans Memorial Park ʊ Isle View County Park And Riverwalk This off-road segment runs from the South Grand Island Bridge ʊ Niawanda Park along South Parkway to Beaver Island State Park. The bike path is approximately 3.5 miles in length. It runs through a residential area of the island providing easy access to Beaver Island State Park. The path connects Grand Island and its parks to the Niagara Riverwalk in the Town of Tonawanda.

The key linkages of this segment include: ʊ The Riverwalk ʊ I-190 ʊ Beaver Island State Park

E. WEST RIVER TRAIL: UNDER CONSTRUCTION

This segment runs approximately 9 miles along the Niagara River from the existing trail at Beaver Island State Park to Buckhorn Island State Park.

The key linkages of this segment include: ʊ Beaver Island State Park ʊ Nike Base Park ʊ Buckhorn Island State Park

F. -(66(.5(*$/75$,/: CONSTRUCTED / IN USE

This trail linkage connects Delaware Park with Niagara Street and the Riverwalk. The 10’ wide asphalt off-road pathway meanders along the north bank of the Scajaquada Creek intersected by two at grade crossings on Grant and Niagara Streets.

The key linkages of this segment include: ʊ Delaware Park And The Surrounding Cultural Institutions ʊ Buffalo State College ʊ Grant/Amherst Community ʊ Riverwalk

Two Mile Creek Greenway

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 5.0 WATERFRONT TRAIL SYSTEM V3-45 5.0 WATERFRONT TRAIL SYSTEM FINAL PLAN

G. INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE TRAIL: 5.4 CONCLUSION PORTIONS CONSTRUCTED / IN USE The following conclusions and recommendations are made to This trail linkage is unique in that it is a proposed tour route advance Erie County’s planning of the waterfront as a regional for pedestrian, bicyclist and motorists along the City streets asset: and sidewalks in and around the mouth of the Buffalo River. • It is clear there is a strong desire by most waterfront The impetus behind this trail is the display and interpretation municipalities to improve their existing, or plan, design of the many existing grain elevators on Kelly Island and and build new linkages to create a continuous waterfront along South Park Avenue, Ohio Street, Smith Street and St. trail system. An organized process and program needs Clair Street. The proposed plan was developed in 1996 by to be developed and followed for optimum coordination the Industrial Heritage Committee, Inc., who are continually between these municipalities and the County to facilitate looking for potential funding sources. A small section is being completion of the trail. funded and constructed as part of the Inner Harbor Project. ʊ One such avenue is coordination with the GBNRTC Bicycle and Pedestrian Subcommittee The key linkages along this segment includes: and the NYSDOT in the continued development of ʊ The Buffalo Inner Harbor the Shoreline Trail. ʊ Downtown Commercial And Industrial Areas ʊ The Buffalo River Greenway • ,QRUGHUWRHIÀFLHQWO\DGYDQFHDFRPSOHWHG:DWHUIURQW Trail System, a plan should be developed to educate H. TOWN OF EVANS BIKE PATH: the public about trail systems, with emphasis on the PLANNED/ NOT FUNDED improved quality of life issues and answers to the most common concerns raised by the public. An education This 1.3 mile stretch of pathway is planned to connect program geared for disseminating factual information the proposed bike path along Old Lake Shore Road to would off-set the misinformation being commonly held, the Village of Angola. The off-road pathway would run particularly regarding safety, security, and property value along the north side of Lake Avenue. Once completed concerns. it will be owned and maintained by the Town of Evans. • To prepare for a public awareness process, case study research and documentation should be performed. This effort would promote factual and understandable information to the public in a consistent manner throughout the County, regardless of what municipality a trail is proposed in. Issues that need to be addressed include, but are not limited to: maintenance responsibilities/ procedures, liability concerns, property value impacts, safety/ security issues, etc.

• In order to promote trail system expansion to the public, consistent supervision and proper maintenance of the existing waterfront trails is if utmost importance. For example, there is a marked difference between the Ellicott Creek Trail and the -HVVH.UHJDO7UDLO andhow each is managed. Inter-municipal agreements and procedures need to be developed and followed in order to have a consistent Trail System.

• Promote and implement Shoreline Trail signage standards where ever possible.

• Where possible, through the greenspaces adjacent to the system, develop secondary connector trails to the Shoreline Trail. For example, new trails in Evangola State Park would connect the beach to the waterfront.

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V3-48 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS FINAL PLAN

INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS

RIVERWALK SECTION OF THE SHORELINE TRAIL

DESCRIPTION

The Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail, is a 6.5 mile multi- purpose path which travels along the Niagara River in the Town of Tonawanda and the City of Tonawanda, and down through the City of Buffalo. The trail connects with many parks within Erie County and the City of Buffalo including Niawanda Park, Isle View Park, Riverside Park, Black Rock Canal Park, Tow Path Park, Unity Island, Broderick Park, LaSalle Park, and terminates near Canalside as it transitions to the South Towns of Buffalo as the Shoreline Trail. The Shoreline Trail has enormous potential to evolve as a prominent regional greenway; to capitalize on proximity and views of the water; be a catalyst for new development and housing; and form important connections and links with nearby parks and amenities. The Shoreline Trail have grown in popularity in recent years as recreation trends have shifted towards a more active lifestyle of biking, jogging, walking, etc. Better amenities, trail upgrades, and future trail expansion/connections will help transition the Shoreline Trail/Riverwalk as a regional destination.

HISTORY AND CONTEXT

The Shoreline Trail system has improved public accessibility to the water and provides an almost continuous corridor. Formerly built Location Map: Erie County portion of the Shoreline Trail/Riverwalk starts as the Riverwalk, it is now 40 years old and, when built, traversed in the City of Tonawanda and travels south until it enters the City of behind numerous active businesses with little relationship to Buffalo. the water’s edge. However, land uses have changed in some TRAIL SPECIFIC PRIORITIES areas of the trail, providing opportunities for the County to revisit the trail alignment and potentially improve the aesthetics of the • Basic trail/pathway improvements are needed overall trail setting and experience, with respect to aesthetic including trail resurfacing, possible widening, fencing, buffers, and shaded rest areas. Additionally, to preserve mileage markers, restriping, and bicycle parking the waterfront for public access and ecological responsible use. throughout entire Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail corridor. There is a growing interest by the public in low intensity, water and nature based recreation, and a number of the County’s river and • Reduce lawn mowing to provide a more canal front parks are well situated to support this. The waterfront natural setting along the River Road industrial park system should be examined for additional opportunities to corridor. Introduce possible meadows and low SURYLGHDGGLWLRQDOÀVKLQJDFFHVVSRLQWVQDWXUHWUDLOVSRWHQWLDO maintenance planting areas to provide buffers safe kayak launches, and other passive recreational activities. along the trail.

FUTURE PLANNING • Identify future opportunities to create new trail segments off of River Road to the waterfront. By 2020 the Shoreline Trail is set to become part of a greater ʊ Work with businesses on River Road, and state initiative, as New York State begins construction and local agencies to begin planning efforts. implementation of the Empire State Trail. This bike/walking trail ʊ The Cherry Farm site is one possible area will eventually connect New York City to Canada, and Albany where the trail can loop in towards the passing through Buffalo. The 750-mile trail aims to connect bikers, river and back out to River Road.

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS V3-49 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS FINAL PLAN

hikers, and cross-country skiers with destinations and cultural GLVWULFWVWKURXJKRXW1HZ

LOCAL CONTEXT

The Shoreline Trail stretches from the Tonawandas southward to the City of Buffalo. Much of the trail within the Town of Tonawanda is within a major industrial sector, with little proximity to any residential areas. As the Shoreline Trail enters the City of Buffalo, it runs parallel with Interstate 190 and Niagara Street. Niagara Street is one of the primary commercial corridors in Downtown Buffalo, and is undergoing streetscape upgrades/ enhancements within the next several years, including dedicated bike lanes. The I-190 ‘casts a shadow’ on most of the Shoreline Trail, as it is a deterrent to community connectivity.

CURRENT ISSUES AND PROBLEMS

• Within the Tonawandas there is limited access to the water, except for the trail segment within Isle View Park. Most of the trail runs along River Road. • Some parts of the path have trail striping, other areas are fading. • Nice trail leads off from the trail near the Grand Island Bridge. The area near the water is poorly maintained. %HQFKHVKDYHEHHQUHPRYHGDQGWKHUHLVJUDIÀWLRQWKH bike poles. There are also old pavers which need to be replaced or re-laid. • Small path branches off after the Grand Island Bridge. Local Context Plan Small sign alerts users of a plaque commemorating the former Erie Canal. Area could be further enhanced in the future. • There is a small gazebo and rest area near River Grill Restaurant. Gazebo area is in need of upgrades and repair.

Overlook at Grand Island Bridge - in need of upgrades

V3-50 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

• Small set of concrete steps goes down to the water’s edge near gazebo area, this possibly was a formalized ÀVKLQJDFFHVVSRLQWDWRQHWLPH6WHSVDUHRYHUJURZQ with vegetation, and railing is in disrepair. Needs to be blocked off or repaired. • General lack of maintenance on trail. • Many buildings and overgrown vegetation block users from seeing the water/views. • Trail needs more rest areas, destinations, and amenities. For inexperienced riders there is very little access to amenities/restrooms and connections to the neighborhoods. • Seems to be a lack of safety features on the trail, such as no emergency phones. • Lack of street trees and natural buffers separating trail IURPIDVWPRYLQJWUDIÀFRQ5LYHU5RDG • Large areas of mowed lawn in certain areas of the corridor. Shoreline Trail signage • Lack of bicycle parking. • Only two public restrooms; at Isle View Park and Aqua Lane Park.

Tripping hazards in the trailway

Large mowed lawn area between the path and River Road

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS V3-51 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS FINAL PLAN

POSSIBLE PARTNERSHIPS

• GObike Buffalo – Partner with GObike Buffalo in an • Private Businesses – Identify key businesses along effort to maintain and enhance connectivity to the the corridor to provide potential volunteering efforts, Shoreline Trail/Riverwalk. Use their resources and efforts aesthetic improvements, etc. to improve trail in various to sponsor bike events on the Shoreline Trail/Riverwalk locations. section, which would be a great marketing opportunity. • Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper – Partner with • Great Lakes Seaway Trail Inc. – Partner with Great Lakes Waterkeeper to continue shoreline efforts, habitat Seaway Trail to continue efforts of improving corridor restoration, invasive species removal, etc. along the Niagara River as a greater component of the Great Lakes Scenic Byway. Identify areas of future • Town/City of Tonawanda – Work with the Town and City tourism enhancement, places of ‘Travelers Signage’, and to strategize and implement future projects that could coordinate future planning efforts. enable the Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail to connect with trails/paths to the east. • NYS Parks/NYS DOT/NYS Canal Corp – Work with agencies during Empire State Trail Plan funding process • Tonawanda Tomorrow - Group is very interested in and implementation. Portion of the trail could include a enhancing connectivity throughout the area; partner and small facility – (such as restrooms, drinking fountains, collaborate to implement potential new trails/pathways bike repair) in the Tonawandas, linking County Parks.

• Niagara River Greenway Commission – Work with Niagara River Greenway to improve path/trail, gateway improvements, and expand future trail connectivity east of the trail into key neighborhoods. Combine efforts to identify sources of funding to implement new projects and improvements.

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RENDERING FROM TOWN OF TONAWANDA OPPORTUNITY PLAN V3-55 V3-56 FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

MASTER PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS

Key - (Project Type: Project Number) A - Action Item: Completed at low to no cost by Parks Staff P - Assistance or completion of project by potential partner/user group C - Capital project

Environment: • (A: 2.0) Improve the tree health throughout the corridor. ʊ 6HYHUDOGHDGWUHHVZHUHREVHUYHGVSHFLÀFDOO\ in front of Niagara River World, and Mid River Marina. ʊ Remove dead, dying or diseased trees. ʊ Prune deadwood from trees. ʊ Routinely monitor the tree population for indications of pest infestations. ʊ Develop a multi-pronged approach to a tree planting strategy including contracted work, in- house staff, and volunteer group plantings. ʊ Develop an annual tree planting program to restore tree canopy and improve natural image of the park. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: In-House/Forestry

• (A: 1.0-1.2) Reduce lawn mowing to provide a more Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail (adjacent to Cherry Farm site) natural setting along the River Road industrial corridor; Introduce possible meadows and low maintenance planting areas to provide buffers along the trail. ʊ Include signage like “Regeneration Area”, or “No- Mow Zone” to engage park users to learn about the landscape management techniques; ʊ Identify areas for rain gardens which can treat and stop run-off from entering the Niagara River. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: In-House

• (P: 9.0) Enhance habitats for both resident and migratory birds; ʊ Emphasize the plantings of native vegetation which provides food, cover, and nesting locations for birds. ʊ Seek input and technical expertise from groups such as the NYSDEC and US Fish and Wildlife Service. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: NYSDEC, US Fish and Wildlife Service

Large area of mowed lawn

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS V3-57 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS FINAL PLAN

•(P: 10.0) Provide pollinator friendly plants and pollinator • (A: 2.1) Add plantings and street trees, especially in JDUGHQVIRUWKHSUHVHQFHRI+XPPLQJELUGV%XWWHUÁLHV locations where path nearly abuts River Road. Bumblebees, Clear-winged moths, and others. ʊ Natural buffers and new plantings can help ʊ Plant late season nectar sources such as New transition the Riverwalk as a ‘park-like’ trail England Aster, which would improve late summer/ amenity. More trees and other natural design early fall migrating periods. features (rain gardens, bio-retention strategies) ʊ Prioritize protection and enhancement of can enable trail to function more as a linear park. sensitive ecological areas; ʊ Work and partner with local businesses on River ʊ Propose appropriate additional native plantings Road to plant trees and/or planting areas in their throughout the park; property frontages. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: NYSDEC/Cornell Cooperative ɵ Partner: Private businesses Extension/ECSWD/In-House

Provide additional areas access/view the water

V3-58 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

• Encourage and improve east-west neighborhood connections. Buffalo’s Bicycle Network Master Plan as well as the Town of Tonawanda’s Connectivity Plan identify these connections as vital to the growth and expansion of the Shoreline Trail as a destination within the regional fabric of Erie County and Western New York. Users require multiple safe entrances and connections to access the path throughout the system. ʊ This will in turn be advantageous to adjoining neighborhoods as it provides safe routes for people on foot/bikes to explore different communities. ʊ These can be new trailhead locations which include possible ‘gateway signage’, small parking areas, and other possible additional features. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: Town and City of Tonawanda

Pathway improvements like restriping is needed within the corridor

Connectivity: •(C: 1.0) Identify future opportunities to create new trail segments off of River Road to the waterfront. Loops along the water would give users variation and new destinations to take advantage of. ʊ Work with businesses on River Road, and local agencies to begin planning efforts. Much of the Riverwalk in Tonawanda is away from the River. ʊ The Cherry Farm site is one possible area where the trail can loop in towards the River and back out to River Road. ʊ Partner with Town of Tonawanda to see how Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail can tie LQWRIXWXUHRSSRUWXQLW\DUHDVLGHQWLÀHGE\WKH Town. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: Greenway funding, Private businesses Good pathway conditions in this area

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS V3-59 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS FINAL PLAN

• Partner with Town of Tonawanda to tie Riverwalk section • Within the City of Buffalo portion of the Shoreline Trail/ of the Shoreline Trail into possible Riverfront Park Riverwalk it is recommended that the Trail become opportunity area. Need to identify additional areas along a more integral part of Niagara Street with the push trail to create new trail segments along the water. for the Niagara Street Improvement Plans. Include ɵ Priority: Medium Shoreline/Riverwalk trail signage to increase awareness ɵ Partner: Town of Tonawanda and usability of trail on Niagara Street. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: City of Buffalo

Trail/Maintenance: •(P: 1.0) Basic trail/pathway improvements are needed including trail resurfacing, possible widening, mileage markers, restriping, and bicycle parking throughout entire Riverwalk corridor. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: Greenway funding, Town of Tonawanda, In-House

• (C: 2.0) Improve Shoreline Trail parking area at the foot of Sheridan Drive. ʊ 'HÀQHERXQGDULHVUHSDYHORWDQGSURYLGH landscape enhancements. ʊ Provide pedestrian connection to trail. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House Drinking fountain in front of Erie County Water Authority property

Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail as it heads behind the I-190 becomes a sea of asphalt and concrete

V3-60 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

• (C: 3.0) Maintain and enhance small gazebo and • (P: 3.0) Partner with River Grill and other businesses on surrounding landscape near River Grill Restaurant. Aqua Lane to enhance and brighten this portion of the ʊ Gazebo structure should be expanded in the near Riverwalk section as it goes behind the I-190. IXWXUHWKHUHLVVLJQLÀFDQWUXVWDQGJUDIÀWLRQWKH ʊ Provide tree plantings and landscaping treatment structure, and is in overall poor condition. ʊ Provide possible artwork along path. ʊ ([LVWLQJELF\FOHUDFNLVDOVRVHHLQJVLJQLÀFDQWUXVW ɵ Priority: Medium and may need replacing. ɵ Partner: Private Businesses/In-House ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House, Private Businesses • (P: 4.0) Work with Mid River Marina to improve property frontage near River Road. • (P: 2.0) Maintain and enhance existing drinking fountain ʊ Provide fencing and landscaping to improve area in front of Erie County Water Authority (ECWA) current appearance near trail. property. ʊ Install tree plantings and possible shrubs in ʊ Replenish stone pad or provide hardscaped area select areas. around fountain with permeable pavers. ɵ Priority: Low ʊ Provide possible bench/rest area ɵ Partner: Mid River Marina ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House/ECWA

Viewing area south of River Grill - Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail needs more areas like this

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS V3-61 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS FINAL PLAN

• (P: 5.0) Work with property owners of former Huntley • (C: 4.0) Strategize basic site furnishings along the property to remove or improve unsightly barbed wire trail including benches, bicycle racks, lights, garbage fence abutting Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail. receptacles, etc. ʊ Provide landscape screening techniques; ɵ Priority: Low ʊ Possibly remove fence and/or move fence back ɵ Partner: Greenway funding to provide possible landscape enhancements and tree plantings to beautify this part of the corridor; NYPA/Greenway Improvements: ʊ Provide decorative fencing in lieu of the barbed • Reach out to State and Federal agencies regarding wire fencing that is there currently. possible grants and funds to revitalize many areas of the ɵ Priority: Low Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail in connection ɵ Partner: Huntley/NRG Energy Group to the construction and implementation of the Empire State Trail (i.e. basic trail improvements; resurfacing, • (P: 6.0) Partner with Town of Tonawanda to enhance new striping, plantings, additional signage, additional Aqua Lane Park along the Riverwalk section of the amenities, bicycle parking, possible trail realignment, Shoreline Trail. Park is neglected, and needs upgraded trail easements). playground equipment, site furnishings, and overall ɵ Priority: Medium maintenance improvements. Aqua Lane Park could be a ɵ Partner: NYS Parks, NYS DOT, NYS Canal destination/rest stop along the trail. Corp ʊ Create a more deliberate trail connection from Riverwalk path into Aqua Lane Park. ɵ Priority: Low •(P: 7.0) Improve connection between Riverwalk section ɵ Partner: Town of Tonawanda of the Shoreline Trail and former Erie Canal site. Improve visibility of the destination. Enhance area with additional interpretive signage and connections out to Cherry Farm site. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: Town of Tonawanda/Greenway funding

Riverwalk section of the Shoreline Trail before it enters the City of Buffalo

V3-62 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

• (C: 5.0) Use Greenway/NYPA funding to provide overlook areas within the segment of the Riverwalk section from the Riverside Grill down to Riverside Park. ʊ Overlook areas can be similar to those featured at Isle View Park. ʊ Selective clearing of overgrown plant material in this area should be prioritized to maintain views of the water. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: Greenway funding

• (C: 6.0) Work with NYSDOT and Town of Tonawanda to establish and upgrade existing park/green space area at the Grand Island Bridge lookout site. Create overlook area near shoreline; repave pathway, replace or relay Walkway to outfall should be fenced off or repaired for safe access pavers; remove old bike parking bollards; place new site furnishing features (benches, picnic tables, bike racks, Signage: etc.) •(C: 7.0) Identify partnerships and funding opportunities to ɵ Priority: Low design and construct interpretive signage along path. ɵ Partner: Greenway funding ʊ Could include historical accounts of the industrial past of the Tonawandas along River Road, history • (P: 8.0) Identify possible partnership opportunity to DQGVLJQLÀFDQFHRIWKH(ULH&DQDOKLVWRU\DQG design and build small facility within the Riverwalk ecological facts about the Niagara River, etc. section of the Shoreline Trail system to include ɵ Priority: Low restrooms, possible concessions (vending machines), ɵ Partner: Greenway funding, Great Lakes basic bicycle maintenance tools/equipment, and drinking Seaway Trail Inc. fountain. ʊ Small restroom is located at Aqua Lane Park in Safety: Tonawanda. Possibly partner with the Town and • (A: 3.0) Guardrails or trail realignment should be other stakeholders to enhance and upgrade considered within areas of the Riverwalk section of the building to include additional amenities, etc. if Shoreline Trail without proper pedestrian buffers. separate facility is less feasible. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House/Highways ɵ Partner: Town of Tonawanda, Greenway funding • (A: 4.0) Fence off walkway to outfall. ʊ Or possibly repair or improve area to provide a safe landing and walkway. ʊ Remove overgrown vegetation which is penetrating into the stairwell. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House

• (C: 8.0) Improve or provide alternative trail alignment along segment located in front of Tonawanda Coke site (3875 River Road). This portion of the trail currently has OLWWOHWRQREXIIHUIURPIDVWWUDIÀFRQ5LYHU5RDG ʊ Install possible guardrail along this trail segment. ʊ Site adjacent to the trail is currently vacant and could accommodate a new path alignment. Engage consultant for design and feasibility. Install possible elevated boardwalk over wetland areas. ʊ Trail could extend into Tonawanda Coke Site and then tie back into trail at Erie County Water Authority property. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: Consultant/Contractor Shoreline Trail signage before reaching the Grand Island Bridge

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RIVERWALK SECTION OF THE SHORELINE TRAIL: ACTION ITEMS

Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Establish “Low Mow Zones” along Provide necessary signage along River Road corridor to reduce overall the “Low Mow Zones” to inform maintenance and provide wildlife the public the reasons behind the In-House, A1.1 High 1-2 Years habitat practice and also to identify the Highway areas to park personnel.

Establish “Low Mow Zones” along Identify areas for rain gardens which River Road corridor to reduce overall can treat and stop run-off from A1.2maintenance and provide wildlife entering the Niagara River. High 1-2 Years In-House habitat

Increase tree health and tree Develop an annual tree planting canopy throughout the River Road program. Prune and/or remove corridor. Develop a multi-pronged trees if determined to present an In-House, A2.0tree planting strategy including increased risk to park patrons and High Ongoing P.O.B., contracted work, in-house staff and employees. Forestry volunteer group plantings.

Identify future opportunities to Work with businesses on River Road, create new trail segments off of and local agencies to begin planning River Road to the waterfront. efforts. Much of the Shoreline Trail/ Project C1.0 High 3-5 Years Riverwalk in Tonawanda is away 6SHFLÀF from the River.

Basic trail/pathway improvements Provide trail resurfacing, possible are needed widening, mileage markers, restriping, and bicycle parking P1.0 throughout entire Riverwalk section High 1-2 Years $120,000 of the Shoreline Trail corridor. Work with Niagara River Greenway Commission

Enhance habitats for both resident Seek input and technical expertise and migratory birds. from groups such as the NYSDEC P9.0 and US Fish and Wildlife Service. High 1-2 Years Partner

Provide pollinator friendly plants and Coordinate with NYSDEC/Cornell pollinator gardens for the presence Cooperative Extension/ECSWD RI+XPPLQJELUGV%XWWHUÁLHV P10.0 High 1-2 Years Partner Bumblebees, Clear-winged moths, and others.

KEY: A: Action Item: Completed at low to no cost by Parks staff C: Capital Project P: Assistance or completion of project by potential partner/user group POB: Parks Operating Budget

V3-64 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

RIVERWALK SECTION OF THE SHORELINE TRAIL: ACTION ITEMS

Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Add plantings and street trees, Natural buffers and new plantings especially in locations where path can help transition the Riverwalk nearly abuts River Road. section as a ‘park-like’ trail amenity. More trees and other natural design A2.1 features (rain gardens, bio-retention Medium 1-2 Years $15,000 strategies) can enable trail to function more as a linear park.

Guardrails or trail realignment Engage a consultant to develop should be considered within areas plans and a contractor to construct In-House, A3.0of the Riverwalk section of the the improvements Medium 3-5 Years Shoreline Trail without proper Highway pedestrian buffers. Fence off walkway to outfall. Or possibly repair or improve area to provide a safe landing and walkway. Remove overgrown vegetation which A4.0 Medium 1-2 Years In-House is penetrating into the stairwell.

Improve Shoreline Trail parking area 'HÀQHERXQGDULHVUHSDYHORWDQG at the foot of Sheridan Drive. provide landscape enhancements. C2.0 Provide pedestrian connection to Medium 1-2 Years $25,500 trail.

Maintain and enhance small gazebo Gazebo structure should be and surrounding landscape near expanded in the near future; C3.0River Grill Restaurant. Medium 3-5 Years In-House

Maintain and enhance existing Replenish stone pad or pave area in drinking fountain area in front of front of fountain. Erie County Water Authority (ECWA) Provide possible bench/rest area. P2.0property. Coordinate with ECWA Medium 1-2 Years $2,500

Partner with River Grill and other Provide tree plantings and businesses on Aqua Lane to landscaping treatment enhance and brighten this portion Provide possible artwork along path. P3.0of the Riverwalk section of the Coordinate with private businesses Medium 3-5 Years $4,000 Shoreline Trail as it goes behind the I-190.

Establish “Low Mow Zones” along Begin an educational program, River Road corridor to reduce overall through the use of the County’s maintenance and provide wildlife website, to the general public which A1.0habitat provides information regarding the Low 3-5 Years In-House “Low Mow Zone” program

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS V3-65 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS FINAL PLAN

RIVERWALK SECTION OF THE SHORELINE TRAIL: ACTION ITEMS

Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Strategize basic site furnishings Engage a consultant to develop along the trail including benches, plans and a contractor to construct C4.0bicycle racks, lights, garbage the improvements Low 3-5 Years $20,000 receptacles, etc.

Provide overlook areas within the Engage a consultant to develop segment of the Riverwalk section plans and a contractor to construct C5.0from the Riverside Grill down to the improvements Low 6-10 Years $35,000 Riverside Park.

Establish and upgrade existing Work with NYSDOT and Town of park/green space area at the Grand Tonawanda Island Bridge lookout site. Create overlook area near shoreline; repave C6.0pathway, replace or relay pavers; Low 6-10 Years $35,000 remove old bike parking bollards; place new site furnishing features (benches, picnic tables, bike racks, etc.)

Provide interpretive signage along Engage a consultant to develop high C7.0the corridor resolution graphics and produce Low 6-10 Years $20,000 sign panels

Improve or provide alternative trail Engage a consultant to develop alignment along segment located in plans and a contractor to construct C8.0front of Tonawanda Coke site (3875 the improvements Low 6-10 Years $60,000 River Road).

Work with Mid River Marina to Provide fencing and landscaping to improve property frontage near River improve current appearance near Road. trail. P4.0 Install tree planting and possible Low 3-5 Years $10,000 shrubs in select areas. Coordinate with Mid River Marina

Work with property owners of former Provide landscape screening Huntley property to remove or techniques; improve unsightly barbed wire fence Possibly remove fence and/or move abutting Shoreline Trail/Riverwalk fence back to provide possible P5.0trail. landscape enhancements and tree Low 6-10 Years $15,000 plantings to beautify this part of the corridor; Work with Huntley/NRG Group

KEY: A: Action Item: Completed at low to no cost by Parks staff C: Capital Project P: Assistance or completion of project by potential partner/user group POB: Parks Operating Budget

V3-66 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

RIVERWALK SECTION OF THE SHORELINE TRAIL: ACTION ITEMS

Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Partner with Town of Tonawanda to Park is neglected, and needs enhance Aqua Lane Park along the upgraded playground equipment, Riverwalk section of the Shoreline site furnishings, and overall P6.0Trail. maintenance improvements. Aqua Low 6-10 Years $20,000 Lane Park could be a destination/ rest stop along the Shoreline Trail/ Riverwalk. Improve connection between Improve visibility of the destination. Riverwalk section and former Erie Enhance area with additional P7.0Canal site. interpretive signage and connections Low 6-10 Years $18,000 out to Cherry Farm site.

Design and build small facility within Coordinate with Niagara River Riverwalk trail system to include Greenway and Town of Tonawanda restrooms, possible concessions P8.0(vending machines), basic bicycle Low 6-10 Years $350,000 maintenance tools/equipment, and drinking fountain.

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS V3-67 THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

V3-68 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS FINAL PLAN

TWO MILE CREEK GREENWAY

DESCRIPTION

Two Mile Creek Greenway is a paved asphalt pathway, approximately 2 miles in length, within the City and Town of Tonawanda. The north/ south trail can be accessed at the northern end from Isle View and Niawanda Park via the Shoreline Trail, as it travels south along Twomile Creek through Veterans Memorial Park and parallel to Two Mile Creek Road. The southern terminus of the trail ends at East Park Drive just north of the I-290. The trail connects to residential communities to the east at Fletcher Street and Brookside Terrace West. Contextually, there are industries and factories to the west of the trail, and Sheridan Park to the south of the trail.

LOCAL CONTEXT

Nearby trails and parks include the Shoreline Trail, Sherwood Greenway, Sheridan Park/Golf Course, Veterans Memorial Park, Niawanda Park and Isle View Park.

Park Location Map: Two-Mile Creek Greenway is located in the City and Town of Tonawanda.

TRAIL SPECIFIC PRIORITIES

• Improve the tree health of the park, in particular within maintained areas. ʊ Remove dead, dying or diseased trees. ʊ Prune deadwood from trees. ʊ Routinely monitor the tree population for indications of pest infestations.

• Monitor and remove invasive species around creek edge.

• Establish meadows and low mow zones along trail corridor. Identify areas for rain gardens which can ÀOWHUUXQRIIEHIRUHHQWHULQJ7ZRPLOH&UHHN

Local Context Map

ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE V3-69 V3-70 FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

CURRENT ISSUES AND PROBLEMS MASTER PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS • Trail has a lower use volume than the Riverwalk, so has less wear and tear. Key - (Project Type: Project Number) • 7KHUHLVQRWUDLOVLJQDJHZD\ÀQGLQJHWF A - Action Item: Completed at low to no cost by Parks Staff • No apparent/clear connection from southern terminus of P - Assistance or completion of project by potential trail to Sheridan Park and Sherwood Greenway Trail. partner/user group C - Capital project POSSIBLE PARTNERSHIPS

• GObike Buffalo – Partner with GObike Buffalo in an effort • (A: 2.0) Improve the tree health of the park, in particular to maintain and enhance connectivity to the Riverwalk within maintained areas. section of the Shoreline Trail and other local/regional ʊ Remove dead, dying or diseased trees. trails. ʊ Prune deadwood from trees. ʊ Routinely monitor the tree population for • Niagara River Greenway Commission – Work with indications of pest infestations. Niagara River Greenway to improve path/trail, gateway ʊ Refer to native plant policy and updated donation improvements, and expand future trail connectivity east policy on proper guidance for planting and care of the trail into key neighborhoods. Combine efforts to for memorial trees. identify sources of funding to implement new projects ɵ Priority: High and improvements. ɵ Partner: In-House/Forestry

• Praxair, Inc. and Elbers Landscape Service - Work • (A: 1.0-1.2) Establish meadows and low mow zones with companies to continue maintenance partnership along trail corridor. of southern section of trail. Engage in plans to add ʊ ,GHQWLI\DUHDVIRUUDLQJDUGHQVZKLFKFDQÀOWHU additional landscape enhancements and plantings. run-off before entering Twomile Creek. ɵ Priority: High • Town/City of Tonawanda – Work with the Town and City ɵ Partner: In-House to strategize and implement future projects. • (P: 4.0) Provide pollinator friendly plants and pollinator • Tonawanda Tomorrow - Group is very interested in JDUGHQVIRUWKHSUHVHQFHRI+XPPLQJELUGV%XWWHUÁLHV enhancing connectivity throughout the area, partner and Bumblebees, Clear-winged moths, and others. collaborate to implement potential new trails/pathways ʊ Plant late season nectar sources such as in the Tonawandas linking County Parks. New England Aster, which would improve late summer/early fall migrating periods. ʊ Prioritize protection and enhancement of sensitive ecological areas; ʊ Propose appropriate additional native plantings throughout the park; ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: NYSDEC/Cornell Cooperative Extension/ECSWD/In-House

Typical trailway conditions

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS V3-71 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS FINAL PLAN

• Monitor and remove invasive species around creek edge. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: WNY Prism

• (A: 3.0) Install kiosk with trail map and sign at small parking area off of East Park Drive. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House

•(P: 1.0) Partner with Praxair on the implementation of additional trails and connections being constructed at the southern end of the trail, north of Pirson Parkway. ʊ Create possible trailhead off of Brookside Terrace. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: Praxair/In-House

• (A: 4.0) Improve and maintain small parking areas off of Portion of trail maintained by Praxair and Elbers Landscape Two Mile Creek Road near tree service company. Provide adequate stone surface to ensure safe parking area. ʊ Install signage at the front of lot off of Two Mile Creek Road. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House

6LJQH[DPSOHPRGLÀHGIURP1LDJDUD5LYHU Parking area is in need of improvements Greenway Manual V3-72 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

•(C: 1.0) Provide Two Mile Creek Greenway branding signage along the trail similar to the Shoreline Trail signage. Place at several locations along the trail. ʊ Engage consultant to design sign; ʊ Could be on-site pole mount with trail name and logo. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House

• (P: 2.0) Partner with Town of Tonawanda and Riverview Solar Technology Park on connecting Two Mile Creek Greenway to a potential trail along an abandoned rail corridor west of Two Mile Creek Road. ʊ Install pedestrian crossing and warning signs on Two Mile Creek Road ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: Town of Tonawanda

• Identify future opportunities to create connections with local trails like the Sherwood Greenway. ʊ Look at a more deliberate connection over I-290 down through Sheridan Park to connect with Sherwood Greenway Trail. ʊ ,QVWDOOZD\ÀQGLQJVLJQDJHDOHUWLQJXVHUVZKHUH the Sherwood Greenway Trail is. Parking area at the southern terminus of the trail ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: Greenway funding, Private businesses

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VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS V3-73 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS FINAL PLAN

• (P: 3.0) Basic trail/pathway improvements will be needed in the long-term including trail resurfacing, mileage markers, restriping, and bicycle parking. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: Consultant, Town/City of Tonawanda

• (C: 2.0) Provide possible overlooks/access points to Twomile Creek. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: Consultant/In-House

• (C: 3.0) Implement additional basic site furnishings along the trail including benches, bicycle racks, lights, garbage receptacles, etc. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: Greenway funding, Town/City of Tonawanda

Bench and memorial/donated trees along the trail

Bench and memorial/donated trees along the trail

V3-74 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 3

TWO MILE CREEK GREENWAY: ACTION ITEMS

Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Establish “Low Mow Zones” Provide necessary signage along along River Road corridor to the “Low Mow Zones” to inform reduce overall maintenance and the public the reasons behind In-House, A1.1 High 1-2 Years provide wildlife habitat the practice and also to identify Highway the areas to park personnel.

Establish “Low Mow Zones” Identify areas for rain gardens along River Road corridor to which can treat and stop run-off A1.2reduce overall maintenance and from entering Twomile Creek High 1-2 Years In-House provide wildlife habitat

Increase tree health and tree Develop an annual tree planting canopy throughout the River program. Prune and/or remove Road corridor. Develop a multi- trees if determined to present an pronged tree planting strategy increased risk to park patrons In-House, A2.0including contracted work, in- and employees. High Ongoing P.O.B., house staff and volunteer group Forestry plantings.

Provide pollinator friendly plants and Coordinate with NYSDEC/Cornell pollinator gardens for the presence Cooperative Extension/ECSWD P4.0RI+XPPLQJELUGV%XWWHUÁLHV High 1-2 Years Partner Bumblebees, Clear-winged moths, and others.

Provide kiosk with large trail map Coordination between Parks and at East Park Drive trailhead Highways to develop and produce A3.0 directional sign panels, trail Medium 3-5 Years In-House maps and markers

Improve and maintain small Install signage at the front of parking areas off of Two Mile lot off of Two Mile Creek Road, Creek Road near Al’s Tree coordinate with Parks and A4.0Service. Provide adequate stone Highways. Medium 1-2 Years $15,000 surface to ensure safe parking area.

KEY: A: Action Item: Completed at low to no cost by Parks staff C: Capital Project P: Assistance or completion of project by potential partner/user group POB: Parks Operating Budget

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS AND TRAILWAYS - 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS V3-75 6.0 INVENTORY AND RECOMMENDATIONS FINAL PLAN

TWO MILE CREEK GREENWAY: ACTION ITEMS

Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Implement additional trails and Partner with Praxair connections from constructed trails at the southern end, P1.0north of Pirson Parkway. Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Create possible trailhead off of Brookside Terrace.

Basic trail/pathway Provide trail resurfacing, mileage improvements are needed in the markers, restriping, and bicycle long-term. parking. Work with Niagara River P3.0 Greenway Commission, City/ Medium 3-5 Years $25,000 Town of Tonawanda

Establish “Low Mow Zones” Begin an educational program, along River Road corridor to through the use of the County’s reduce overall maintenance and website, to the general public A1.0provide wildlife habitat which provides information Low 3-5 Years In-House regarding the “Low Mow Zone” program

Provide Two Mile Creek Greenway Engage consultant to design branding signage along the sign; trail similar to the Shoreline Could be on-site pole mount with C1.0Trail signage. Place at several trail name and logo. Low 3-5 Years $15,000 locations along the trail.

Provide possible overlooks/ Engage a consultant to develop access points to Twomile Creek. plans and a contractor to C2.0 construct the improvements Low 6-10 Years $5,000

Implement basic site furnishings Engage contractor to install along the trail including benches, improvements C3.0bicycle racks, lights, garbage Low 6-10 Years $5,000 receptacles, etc.

Connect Two Mile Creek Partner with Town of Tonawanda Greenway to a potential trail and Riverview Solar Technology P2.0along an abandoned rail corridor Park Low 6-10 Years $6,000 west of Two Mile Creek Road.

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V3-78 7.0 SCHEMATIC PLANS FINAL PLAN

SCHEMATIC PLANS

• Schematic plans produced as part of the waterfront access and trailways component:

ʊ Waterfront Enhancement Strategy- Overall Strategic Plan

ʊ 8QLWHG5HÀQHU\3URSHUW\DQG$GMDFHQW Parcels to Isle View Park - Trail access to the waterfront

ʊ Two Mile Creek Greenway Restoration

VOLUME 3: WATERFRONT ACCESS TRAILWAYS - 7.0 SCHEMATIC PLANS V3-79 V3-80 V3-81 INSERT UNITED REFINERY SCHEMATIC

V3-82 7+,63$*(,17(17,21$//</()7%/$1.

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