HERITAGE PARKS
2.0 HERITAGE PARKS 2.1 Akron Falls Park
2.3 Como Lake Park
2.5 Emery Park
V2-10 2.1 HERITAGE PARKS - AKRON FALLS PARK FINAL PLAN
AKRON FALLS PARK
DESCRIPTION
Akron Falls Park, in the Village of Akron and Town of Newstead, is one of the older parks in the County’s overall system. It was initially built as a Village Park in the early 1930s, but was later acquired by Erie County in 1947. This 154-acre, multi-purpose park features many iconic old stone structures and sloping terrain that straddles the scenic Murder Creek.
The dominant natural feature of the park is the 80’-high Akron Falls along the Onondaga Escarpment, which includes two VHSDUDWHFDWDUDFWVRQ0XUGHU&UHHN7KH&UHHNWKHQÁRZVWKURXJK a scenic glen within the park that includes an old manmade lake with dam, several islands, pathways and picnic areas. Numerous old, unique stone park structures dot the landscape, making this a unique ‘Heritage Park’ in the Parks System.
PARK AND AREA HISTORY 7KHÀUVWVHWWOHPHQWLQWKHDUHDEHJDQLQ DQGIROORZLQJa rapid development of commerce and industry, the Village of Akron was incorporated in 1849. Cement and gypsum industries sustained the Akron economy for over a century. In fact, once nicknamed the “Cement City,” an old news article from 1884 states that “there is hardly a piece of masonry of any importance from the Hudson River to the Rocky Mountains into which it [Akron Cement] has not entered as one of its component parts.” In fact, there is a strong connection between the cement industry with the Akron Falls Park, including a series of mines underneath the falls and park. Remnants of one of the tunnel entrances can still be seen under the upper falls within the park. Also in 1884, the West Shore Railroad Park Location Map: Akron Falls Park in the Town of Newstead and the came to Akron, adding to the service provided by the New York Village of Akron Central Railroad, dubbed the “Peanut Line,” running from Niagara )DOOVWR&DQDQGDLJXDEHJLQQLQJLQ$VIRUSDUNVSHFLÀFKLVWRU\ in 1933, the Civil Works Administration, which was funded by the PARK SPECIFIC PRIORITIES Public Works Administration (WPA), initiated the development of Akron Falls Park, with approximately 90 men working for a minimum • Preserve and repair historic stone structures; RISHUZHHN/DWHUWKDWVDPH\HDUWKHGDPDQGDUWLÀFLDO comfort stations, shelters, old stone grills, and lake was constructed from bond funds (The Akron News 1933 unique features like the Rock Garden and stone – Wnyrin). Following the County acquisition in 1947, additional railings at the Lower Falls. acreage was purchased to provide for skating and picnic space. • Reduce lawn mowing to provide natural areas RIZLOGÁRZHUVDQGPHDGRZVHVSHFLDOO\DORQJ Parkview Drive.
• Enhance falls viewing opportunities at the Lower and Upper Falls. Fortify and provide safety measures, possible barrier wall or guard rails at Lower Falls overlook, or by providing safe areas to view the falls at closer points along the creek.
Manmade lake and Murder Creek within Akron Falls Park.
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RECREATIONAL CONTEXT Since the earliest days of the Akron Falls Park development, the area around Akron and Newstead has seen and continues to see growth. In its earlier days, Akron Falls Park served the recreational needs of nearly all area residents. Now, with more recent developments of other local park and recreation facilities, there is less demand on Akron Falls Park for certain types of active recreation, while more and more people have rediscovered the park for its natural beauty, unique assets, and heritage features. One significant recreational feature in the northern Erie County area is the recreational trail that links the Village of Akron to the Town of Clarence. This Rails to Trail development on the old “Peanut Line” has the potential to eventually link Akron all the way to Ellicott Creek Park and the Riverwalk, through the Towns of Clarence, Amherst and Tonawanda.
LOCAL CONTEXT Akron Falls Park lies directly adjacent to Akron Village, and yet there does not appear to be any direct or significant relationship between the two. Parkview Drive cuts through the park and provides a direct connection for passing vehicles into the east end of the business district (near the historic Octagon House). The Village of Akron has been revitalized over the past few years, and has become a destination for many looking for that small, quaint historic village setting. Other area industries and businesses have flourished, including Local context map the Perry’s Ice Cream Plant on the north side of the Village. Given its location, Akron Falls Park likely draws most of its users from the immediate area of Akron Village and Town of Newstead, as well as the surrounding communities of Clarence to the west, Alden to the south, Pembroke to the east, Royalton to the north and the Town of Alabama to the northeast. The Tonawanda Indian Reservation also is within close proximity to the Park.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT
Natural scenic beauty is the greatest asset of Akron Falls Park. The falls themselves changes throughout the seasons as stream ÁRZYDULHVPDNLQJHDFKYLVLWDVOLJKWO\GLIIHUHQWH[SHULHQFH Below the falls, steep wooded slopes provide a feeling of wilderness, despite the park’s proximity to the village. These VORSHVDUHKRPHWRVSULQJZLOGÁRZHUVZKLFKVKRXOGEHSURWHFWHG as well as possible from visitors short-cutting the historic foot path by climbing straight downslope from the parking area.
Murder Creek provides a natural division of the park into north and south portions, which are also different in character. The northern part of the park consists mainly of wooded glen and FUHHNÁRRGSODLQDVZHOODVWKHPDQPDGHODNH7KHVRXWKHUQ portion is at higher elevation, and includes large areas of manicured lawn that present opportunities for enlarging natural habitat and re-introducing native plant species.
Park road featuring old stone culvert walls on either side
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Lower Falls
Stone and timber railing along path to Lower Falls
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The character of the lake also varies with seasonal changes in • Parkview Dr. – Replacement of bridge over Murder VWUHDPÁRZ,QVSULQJKLJKÁRZVWRSWKHGDPHDVLO\DOORZLQJ Creek ÁRZDQGPL[WXUHZLWKLQWKHODNHEXWLQODWHVXPPHUDQG • Brooklyn St – Replacement of bridge over Murder Creek IDOOORZÁRZVPHDQWKHODNHOHYHOGURSVDQGWKHZDWHUFDQ • Roadway improvements – Drain inlets replaced, road to become stagnant. While it is not a practical possibility at this shelter #3 reconstructed WLPHLQWKHORQJWHUPPRGLÀFDWLRQRUHYHQUHPRYDORIWKHGDP • Parking improvements – Cummings Lodge and Parkview could be considered as a way of improving the connectivity Comfort Station lots reconstructed of stream habitat within the park. Flow variability also effects • Cummings Lodge – General repairs and painting the stream itself-- portions of Murder Creek above the lake • Parkview Comfort Station – Replaced roof show bank erosion from fast flowing spring high-waters. • Valley Comfort Station – Replaced roof • Brooklyn St. Comfort Station – Replaced roof While invasive species are not a severe problem at • Gas Shed – Replaced roof Akron Falls Park, there are scattered populations of • Shelter #1 – Replaced roof including decking non-native plants such as Vinca minor, which have • Shelter #5 – Replaced roof the potential to become problems in the future. • Shelter #10 – Replaced roof and concrete pad • Shelter #11 – Replaced roof and concrete pad RECENT PARKS DEPARTMENT PROJECTS / • 6KHOWHU²5HSODFHGURRI IMPROVEMENTS • Shelter #14 – Replaced roof and concrete pad • Shelter #15 – Replaced roof and concrete pad 7KH&DSLWDO,PSURYHPHQWVZLWKLQ$NURQFalls • Waterfall access – Fencing added and repaired, 3DUNVWRWDOHG DQGLQFOXGHGWKHIROORZLQJ walkway resurfaced projects: • Dam sedimentation study completed • Sealed and striped tennis courts, and striping for pickleball • Sealed and striped basketball courts
Warning sign and temporary barrier at the Lower Falls overlook
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CURRENT ISSUES AND PROBLEMS
• The park is showing deterioration in its older, historic stone structures. • Chain link fencing prevents access and views to the upper falls. • Over the years, safety has become a big concern with deteriorating walkways, railings and former viewing areas. • More connections to the Village are needed. • Park lacks distinct gateway signage needed at key locations entering the park. • As resources and funding dwindle, a new strategy for lawn mowing needs to emerge. Currently, most of the open space in the park is mowed, including areas that are beyond the recreational use areas. • There is an apparent underutilization of some of the park Lower Falls - Many people trespass and jump into and off of the falls, facilities, for example the Concession Stand and Ice Skating FUHDWLQJVLJQLÀFDQWVDIHW\LVVXHVDQGLQFUHDVHGGXWLHVIRUWKH3DUN Rangers Lodge. • Numerous reports and accounts of unruly park users entering the falls beyond the ‘safe viewing areas’. Park Rangers have KDGGLIÀFXOW\PDLQWDLQLQJVDIHW\DURXQGWKHIDOOVDQGNHHSLQJ individuals from high risk areas. This has precluded the Rangers from being able to function and perform their regular park duties. • Many old stone grilling stations still exist throughout the park, many are in disrepair and falling apart. • Older pieces of playground equipment, not compliant with current guidelines, are scattered throughout the park. • 7KH3DUNKDVWZREDVHEDOOGLDPRQGVEXWLQÀHOGVDUHQRW maintained. The diamond near Brooklyn Street has stadium lighting that is in disrepair. • Poor safety along Parkview Drive for pedestrians. A sidewalk or crosswalk is not provided in the main park area, this creates an unsafe condition with park users walking along Old stone grill near Parkview Drive - All grills are displaying signs of the road to access different areas/amenities of the park. deterioration like this throughout the park
Old ball diamond on Brooklyn Street; diamond is not maintained and hardly used
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MASTER PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS • (A: 13.0) Picnic Shelter #13 should be preserved and/ or considered for possible reuse. The shelter, which is at Key - (Project Type: Project Number) the west end of lake does not have vehicular access and A - Action Item: Completed at low to no cost by Parks Staff it is not available for rentals at this time. P - Assistance or completion of project by potential ɵ Priority: Low partner/user group ɵ Partner: In-House C - Capital project • (A: 14.0) Enhance the usage and purpose for the Cummings Lodge, located off of Skyline Drive. This Historic Structures/WPA/Other Structures: IDFLOLW\FRXOGEHUHWURÀWWHGWRVHUYHDVDPXOWLSXUSRVH • (P: 1.0-9.3) Preserve/enhance and restore Heritage recreation center, “nature education center,” or other Areas within the park, including; shelters, comfort park use. stations, WPA era grills, other structures. Consider the ɵ Priority: Low heritage “value” of these old park features for future ɵ Partner: In-House tourism and visitor appreciation ʊ The Rock Garden ʊ Enhance and promote Old Rock Garden as unique destination to the Erie County Park System. Include interpretive signage about the history of the site. Picnic Groves including grill structures ʊ Preserve and/or repair, depending on condition and location, WPA grilling structures to be used again as part of the original picnic groves ʊ Hillside trails with unique stone steps, posts, railings and stone bench built into the hillside. ʊ Lower Falls viewing area ʊ Stone structures such as culvert headwalls and small foot bridges ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: PBN/In-House
• (A: 1.0) Consider park for eligibility on the National Register of Historic Places. (2003 Master Plan) ɵ Priority: Low WPA era comfort station off of Parkview Drive ɵ Partner: In-House
Stone bench at the rock garden Shelter #2
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• (A: 5.0) Improve pedestrian safety along Parkview Drive. Several strategies can be pursued: ʊ Lower the speed limit on Parkview Drive to 15mph to coincide with the park speed limit. ʊ Provide high visibility crosswalks and signage to provide a safer crossing scenario for park patrons using features on both sides of the road. ʊ Construct a sidewalk or walking trail from the bridge to the park boundary. Coordinate with the Village to continue the walk to Buell Street. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House/Highway
• Improve ADA access throughout the park wherever reasonable and feasible. (2003 Master Plan) ʊ New renovations can present opportunities to address standards in ADA accessibility. These FDQLQFOXGHIRUH[DPSOHGHVLJQLQJVSRUWVÀHOGV courts for greater accessibility and seating, improved accessibility/updated surfaces to children play areas, and potential paving of new trails for people of different abilities. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House Large areas of open lawn on the west side of the park
Connectivity/Signage: Maintenance/Safety: • (A: 2.0-3.3) Reduce lawn mowing to provide more natural setting in non-recreational use areas, and help to shift park maintenance towards restoring older park structures. (2003 Master Plan) ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: In-House
• (C: 4.0) Enhance falls viewing opportunities at the Upper and Lower Falls; Provide new ADA accessible overlook platforms with newer methods of pedestrian safety. ʊ Consider a new trail access route and viewing area to the upper falls from the north side of Murder Creek off East Avenue. ʊ Provide safe areas to view the lower falls at closer points along the creek utilizing elevated platforms/boardwalk. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House/Contractor
Parkview Drive, heading north
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• (A: 10.0) Partner with Town of Newstead/Village of - Intersection of Buell Street and Parkview Akron to ensure that current and proposed area trails Drive. may expand to connect with Akron Falls Park. - Intersection of John Street and Parkview ɵ Priority: High Drive. ɵ Partner: Town of Newstead/Village of Akron - Intersection of Main Street and Parkview Drive. • (A: 7.0-7.5) Establish more dominant “gateway” features ɵ Priority: Medium for the park, including upgraded entrance signs, ɵ Partner: In-House/Highway enhanced landscaping with seasonal interest, etc. (2003 Master Plan) • (C: 2.0-2.4) Provide new interpretive signage system and ʊ The park contains several entry points, and informational kiosks that tie the park better into the mix Parkview Drive splits the park into three distinct with other local cultural and historical attractions. areas. ʊ Provide an interpretive “story-line” for the Park’s ʊ Two primary entrances into the park are geological and local history, i.e. How and when from Skyline Drive and Parkview Drive. It is the falls were formed?; How did Murder Creek get recommended that Major gateway features LWVQDPH" :KHQZDVWKH9LOODJHDQG7RZQÀUVW be implemented at these locations. These Settled?; What’s the history behind the Octagon features would include upgraded entrance signs, +RXVH" :KDWZHUHVRPHVLJQLÀFDQWKLVWRULF informational kiosks nearby, and landscape happenings in the area, or in the park?; When treatments to impact a sense of arrival. were the old stone structures built?; How did the ʊ At several other entry points to the park a ‘minor’ discovery of Gypsum Deposits change the Village gateway, or welcome type sign and treatment is of Akron?; What is the background of “Cement recommended. At these locations the park rules City?” etc. VKRXOGEHSRVWHG7KHORFDWLRQVLGHQWLÀHGIRU ʊ Provide interpretive signs or markers at key these ‘minor’ gateways include; history and natural sites, such as at the site of - The park boundaries along Parkview Drive. any old mills on Murder Creek, at the falls, etc. - The Brooklyn Street entrance. ʊ Enhance existing nature trail system along Murder - East Avenue at the roller hockey rink. &UHHNZLWKQHZLQWHUSUHWLYHVLJQDJH 0DVWHU - Skyline Drive at the parking lot to Cummings Plan) Lodge ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House ɵ Partner: In-House
• Continue working with the Town to develop an overall plan for Akron Falls Park. An access to the park should be promoted from Main Street in the Village, to increase WKHSURÀOHRIWKHSDUNLQWKH9LOODJH$ZDONZD\VKRXOGEH developed along Buell Street to link the Park with East Avenue. (Recommendation from Newstead/Akron Joint Comprehensive Plan) ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: Newstead Town Board/Akron Village Board
• (A: 9.0-9.4) Establish legible and recognizable directional signage to the park. ʊ There are small signs at the intersections of Crittenden Road and Skyline Drive, and at Buell 5RDGDQG3DUNYLHZ'ULYHWKDWDUHGLIÀFXOWWR spot, the County outline shape blends in with the background, and the text is hard to read. In DGGLWLRQWRUHSODFLQJWKHZD\ÀQGLQJVLJQDJHDW these two locations it is suggested that additional ZD\ÀQGLQJVLJQDJHEHSURYLGHGDW - Intersection of Crittenden Road and Skyline Drive. Existing park sign off of Parkview Drive from the south
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Recreation: • (A: 6.1) Improve and maintain playground structures throughout park. ʊ 3URYLGHRUUHSOHQLVKÀEHUIDOOVXUIDFHVDW playgrounds annually. ʊ Replace swings/play equipment as needed due to wear and tear. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: In-House
• (P: 11.0) Consider the removal or repurposing of sports ÀHOGVDQGFRXUWVEDVHGRQUHFUHDWLRQWUHQGVDQGLQWHUHVWV of the area. Coordinate with Visit Buffalo Niagara (VBN) to identify possible opportunities. ɵ Priority: Medium Murder Creek ɵ Partner: VBN/In-House
• (C: 6.0) Improve tennis courts by including striped lines for Pickleball use. Allow for dual-use courts. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: Contractor
• (C: 7.0) Install new updated basketball hoops (rim/ backboard and nets). ʊ Potentially restripe basketball court as a ‘multi- purpose court’ responding to the recreation trends of the area. Court could accommodate several VSRUWVLHEDVNHWEDOOYROOH\EDOOVTXDUHÁRRU hockey, and more. ɵ Priority: Medium Entrance to the Rock Garden ɵ Partner: Contractor
Playground off of Parkview Drive
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• (A: 6.2) Remove the numerous old non-compliant metal playground structures and equipment that dot the landscape throughout the park. These pieces of equipment are outdated, most are unsightly, and many do not meet any current playground safety requirements. ʊ Consideration should be given to several “legacy” playground pieces, such as the pumpkin coach. This equipment appeared to be in good condition and could be maintained in the park as a feature or considered artwork, without a fall surface which would encourage its use as play equipment. Refer to Volume One for additional information regarding “legacy” playground pieces. ʊ Consider earthtone colors for playground equipment in the Heritage park setting rather than bright, primary colors. ʊ Potentially reuse this old playground equipment by reaching out to local artists and craftsman. The Old swingset and slide adjacent to Murder Creek metal parts could be used as installation pieces ORFDWHGWKURXJKRXWWKHSDUN 0DVWHU3ODQ ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House
• (C: 9.0),PSURYHÀVKLQJDFFHVVDQGRSSRUWXQLWLHVWRWKH edge of the park lake (2003 Master Plan) ʊ Provide a small deck similar to the one featured near the Commissioners Cabin at Chestnut Ridge for ÀVKLQJDFFHVVDQGDVDQRYHUORRNGHVWLQDWLRQ ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House
Environment: • (A: 4.1-4.2) Improve the tree health of the park, in particular within maintained areas. ʊ Remove dead, dying or diseased trees. ʊ Prune deadwood from trees. Pumpkin coach - One of the many unique attractions providing character ʊ Routinely monitor the tree population for indications and charm to the park setting of pest infestations. ʊ Provide new native tree plantings throughout the park, particularly along Parkview Drive to enhance the arrival experience into the Park. (Consult County Forester and local experts to determine appropriate VSHFLHVWREHQHÀWZLOGOLIH ʊ Develop a multi-pronged approach to tree planting strategy including contracted work, in-house staff and volunteer group plantings. ʊ Develop annual tree planting program to restore tree canopy and improve natural image of the park. ʊ Apply for funding from NYSDEC for example for purchase of trees and materials and for the tree inventory. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: In-House/NYSDEC/ECSWD/Forestry
Existing tree canopy on the west side of the park
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• (P: 12.0) Coordinate with partners to identify opportunities to naturalize the lake edge with riparian native plantings and other natural features. Projects can take the shape of the “Living Shoreline” project at Ellicott Creek Park. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper/ ECSWD/NYSDEC
• (P: 13.0) Encourage and emphasize natural features and opportunities to connect with park ecology. ʊ Prioritize protection and enhancement of sensitive ecological areas; ʊ Propose appropriate additional native plantings throughout the park; ʊ Prioritize native pollinator friendly plantings for ELUGDQGEXWWHUÁ\KDELWDWV ʊ Designate potential native plant gardens to promote educational and interpretive elements while increasing habitats for insect/bird habitats; ʊ The County should encourage the development of outdoor classrooms through partnerships with local schools. Outdoor classrooms can be living laboratories for local children to immerse themselves in nature and our local ecosystem. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: NYSDEC/Cornell Cooperative Extension/ECSWD/In-House &UHHNHGJHFRQGLWLRQVDVLWÁRZVLQWRWKHODNH
• (P: 14.0) Management and monitoring of invasive species is imperative to the health of the park. ʊ Address and remove threatening invasive species. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: WNY Prism/ECSWD
• (P: 10.0) Murder Creek focus projects should include stream bank stabilization and erosion control, habitat conservation and restoration, stormwater management, and contaminant reduction. Work with NYSDEC, Buffalo Waterkeeper, Soil and Water District and other local stakeholder groups to continue to improve the health of the Creek. ʊ Continued improvements to the ecological status of the creek and naturalization of the surrounding wooded areas can contribute to educational nature programs and trail/water recreation. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper/ ECSWD/NYSDEC
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AKRON FALLS: ACTION ITEMS
Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Establish “Natural Regeneration Establish “Natural Regeneration A Areas” to reduce overall maintenance =RQHVµLGHQWLÀHGRQWKH0DVWHU3ODQ High Establish “Natural Regeneration (VWDEOLVK´/RZ0RZ=RQHVµLGHQWLÀHG Areas” to reduce overall maintenance on the Master Plan A3.1 High Establish “Low Mow Zones” to Provide necessary signage along the reduce overall maintenance and “Low Mow Zones” to inform the public In-House, A3.3provide wildlife habitat the reasons behind the practice and High Promote alternative transportation to Coordinate with the Village of Akron the park. and Town of Newstead to ensure A11.0 proposed trail projects connect to High Ongoing NA Akron Falls Park. Enhance safety at Lower Falls Reconstruction deteriorating viewing point. stone wall(s) and construct period C4.0 appropriate (in appearance) guard High Management and monitoring of Coordinate with WNY Prism, ECSWD, invasive species is imperative to and others. P14.0the health of the park. Address and High Ongoing Partner remove threatening invasive species. 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 V2-24 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 AKRON FALLS: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Increase tree health and tree canopy Develop an annual tree planting throughout the park. The overall age program. of the tree population at the Park is considered to be mature, with limited young trees to renew the resource A Medium Ongoing In-House over time. Develop a multi-pronged tree planting strategy including contracted work, in-house staff and volunteer group plantings Improve pedestrian safety along Coordinate with the Village to reduce Parkview Dr. the speed limit of Parkview Dr. to 15 In-House, A5.0 Medium 3-5 Years MPH within the park boundary. Highway Establish Minor Gateways, welcome Coordination between Parks & In-House, A7.0sign and rules,for the park at the Highways to develop and produce the Medium following locations: sign panels Years Highway Parkview Dr. (north end) Coordination between Parks & In-House, A7.1 Highways to develop and produce the Medium sign panels Years Highway Parkview Dr. (south end) Coordination between Parks & In-House, A Highways to develop and produce the Medium sign panels Years Highway Brooklyn St. Coordination between Parks & In-House, A7.3 Highways to develop and produce the Medium sign panels Years Highway East Ave. Coordination between Parks & In-House, A7.4 Highways to develop and produce the Medium sign panels Years Highway Cummings Lodge Coordination between Parks & In-House, A7.5 Highways to develop and produce the Medium sign panels Years Highway 3URYLGHFRQVLVWHQWZD\ÀQGLQJDQG Coordination between Parks & directional signage within the park: Highways to develop and produce the A8.0 directional sign panels, trail maps and Medium 3-5 Years X trail markers. The Falls Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce the A8.1 directional sign panels, trail maps and Medium 3-5 Years In-House trail markers. VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-25 2.1 HERITAGE PARKS - AKRON FALLS PARK FINAL PLAN AKRON FALLS: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost The Rock Garden Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce the A directional sign panels, trail maps and Medium 3-5 Years In-House trail markers. Trail heads, maps and trail markers Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce the A8.3 directional sign panels, trail maps and Medium 3-5 Years In-House trail markers. Ensure that shelters, comfort Coordination between Parks and VWDWLRQVDQGEXLOGLQJVDUHLGHQWLÀDEOHHighways to develop and produce the A sign panels. Medium 3-5 Years In-House Prevent further deterioration of Engage contractor to perform repairs C3.0warming lodge next to pond. Replace Medium 3-5 Years $99,000 roof. Improve safety along Parkview Drive: Engage a consultant to develop plans and a contractor to construct the C5.0 improvements Medium 3-5 Years X Construct high visibility cross-walks, Engage a consultant to develop plans advance warning and crosswalk and a contractor to construct the C5.1 Medium 3-5 Years signage. improvements Install new updated basketball hoops Engage contractor to perform repairs C7.0(rim/backboard and nets). Medium 3-5 Years Coordinate with partners to identify Coordinate and partner with Buffalo opportunities to naturalize the lake Niagara Waterkeeper and NYSDEC edge with riparian native plantings and other natural features. Projects P Medium 3-5 Years P.O.B. can take the shape of the “Living Shoreline” project at Ellicott Creek Park. Consider park for eligibility on the Coordinate with the State Historic National Register of Historic Places 3UHVHUYDWLRQ2IÀFHUDVVLJQHGWR(ULH A1.0 County to complete the required Low Ongoing In-House nomination forms and submit to a State review board. 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 V2-26 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 AKRON FALLS: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Establish “Low Mow Zones” to Begin an educational program, reduce overall maintenance and through the use of the County’s A provide wildlife habitat website, to the general public which Low 3-5 Years In-House provides information regarding the “Low Mow Zone” program Improve playground safety Remove playground equipment that is not compliant with current A regulations, with the exception of Low Ongoing In-House the pumpkin coach or other “legacy” pieces of equipment Provide directional signage to the Coordination between Parks & park at strategic locations: Highways to develop and produce the In-House, A9.0 sign panels, and coordinate with the Low road jurisdiction regarding placement Years Highway of the signs. Intersection of Crittenden Rd. and Coordination between Parks & Skyline Dr. Highways to develop and produce the sign panels, and coordinate with the In-House, A9.1 Low road jurisdiction regarding placement Years Highway of the signs. Intersection of Buell St. and Parkview Coordination between Parks & Dr. Highways to develop and produce the In-House, A sign panels, and coordinate with the Low road jurisdiction regarding placement Years Highway of the signs. Intersection of John St. and Parkview Coordination between Parks & Dr. Highways to develop and produce the In-House, A9.3 sign panels, and coordinate with the Low road jurisdiction regarding placement Years Highway of the signs. Intersection of Main St. and Parkview Coordination between Parks & Dr. Highways to develop and produce the In-House, A9.4 sign panels, and coordinate with the Low road jurisdiction regarding placement Years Highway of the signs. Remove dysfunctional lighting from Utilize parks staff to perform A10.0Brooklyn St baseball diamond improvements Low In-House Years VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-27 2.1 HERITAGE PARKS - AKRON FALLS PARK FINAL PLAN AKRON FALLS: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Picnic Shelter #13 should be Utilize parks staff to perform preserved and/or considered for improvements possible reuse. The shelter, which A13.0 Low 3-5 Years P.O.B. is at the west end of lake does not have vehicular access and it is not available for rentals at this time. Enhance the usage and purpose for Planning and improvements the Cummings Lodge, located off of implemented by parks staff Skyline Drive. This facility could be A14.0UHWURÀWWHGWRVHUYHDVDPXOWLSXUSRVH Low recreation center, “nature education Years center,” or other park use. Establish Enhanced Gateways for the Engage a consultant to develop sign park at the following locations: types including copy, structure and C1.0 Low x landscape typology for each location. Years Parkview Drive at main park road Engage a consultant to develop sign types including copy, structure and C1.1 Low $17,800 landscape typology for each location. Years Skyline Drive Engage a consultant to develop sign types including copy, structure and C Low $17,800 landscape typology for each location. Years Provide interpretive signage in the Coordinate with historical society to C park: develop copy and obtain images for Low Ongoing In-House the interpretive content. The Rock Garden Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and produce sign C Low $3,500 panels, installation In-House Years Geological history Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and produce sign C Low $3,500 panels, installation In-House Years 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 V2-28 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost The Legend of Murder Creek Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and produce sign C Low $3,500 panels, installation In-House Years History of WPA structures Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and produce sign C Low $3,500 panels, installation In-House Years Construct sidewalk from Parkview Dr. Engage a consultant to develop plans bridge to west park boundary. and a contractor to construct the C Low sidewalk Years ,PSURYHÀVKLQJDFFHVVDQG Engage a consultant to develop plans opportunities to the edge of the park and a contractor to construct the ODNH 0DVWHU3ODQ 3URYLGH improvements a small deck similar to the one C8.0 Low $15,000 featured near the Commissioners Years Cabin at Chestnut Ridge for ÀVKLQJDFFHVVDQGDVDQRYHUORRN destination. Prevent further deterioration of the Refer to partnership opportunity with P1.0following WPA Era picnic shelters: PBN Low X Years Shelter #3 – Repoint stonework Refer to partnership opportunity with P1.1 Low $35,000 PBN Years Shelter #8 – Repoint stonework Refer to partnership opportunity with P Low PBN Years Shelter #10 – Repoint stonework Refer to partnership opportunity with P1.3 Low $35,000 PBN Years Shelter #11 – Repoint stonework Refer to partnership opportunity with P1.4 Low PBN Years Prevent further deterioration of stone Refer to partnership opportunity with work at Brooklyn Street Comfort PBN P Low Station; Repair loose and missing Years stones, repoint stonework. Prevent further deterioration of Refer to partnership opportunity with stone work at Falls Comfort Station; PBN P3.0 Low Repoint stonework. Years VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-29 2.1 HERITAGE PARKS - AKRON FALLS PARK FINAL PLAN AKRON FALLS: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Prevent further deterioration of stone Refer to partnership opportunity with work at warming lodge next to pond; PBN P4.0 Low $85,000 Repair loose and missing stones, Years repoint stonework. Prevent further deterioration of stone Refer to partnership opportunity with work at small seat/shelter near rock PBN P5.0 Low garden; Repair loose and missing Years stones, repoint stonework. Prevent further deterioration of stone Refer to partnership opportunity with bench near falls. Repair loose and PBN P Low $7,500 missing stones, repoint stonework. Years Prevent further deterioration of Refer to partnership opportunity with stone bench at rock garden. Repair PBN P7.0 Low $7,500 loose and missing stones, repoint Years stonework. Repair Franklin J. Nice memorial; Refer to partnership opportunity with Reset capstone, replace broken PBN P8.0 Low $7,000 “mantle”, clean and repoint joints. Years Rehabilitate the following WPA Era Refer to partnership opportunity with P9.0grills to prevent further deterioration: PBN Low X Years Grill #8; Replace missing stones, Refer to partnership opportunity with P9.1reset loose stones, clean and repoint PBN Low $3,500 mortar Years Grill #9; Replace missing stones, Refer to partnership opportunity with P reset loose stones, clean and repoint PBN Low $3,500 mortar Years Grill #17; Replace missing stones, Refer to partnership opportunity with P9.3reset loose stones, clean and repoint PBN Low $3,500 mortar Years Improve the ecological status of Coordinate and partner with Buffalo Murder Creek through stream bank Niagara Waterkeeper and NYSDEC to stabilization, erosion control, habitat develop projects similar to the Living P10.0 Low Ongoing $150,000 conservation and restoration and Shoreline project in Ellicott Creek Park storm water management 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 V2-30 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK V2-31 THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK V2-32 2.2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK FINAL PLAN CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK DESCRIPTION Acquired in 1926, Chestnut Ridge Park is the largest and most heavily used County-owned park. This jewel of a property includes some of the most impressive natural scenery and vintage WPA- era park structures around. Located in the Town of Orchard Park, the 1,151-acre park is centrally located within the County Parks System, has convenient access and has always been a popular destination to residents all over Erie County. This is the largest County Park in the system and arguably one of the largest County Parks in the United States. The most well-known portion of the park is the large open grass hillside, upon which sits the old stone Park “Casino” building. This north-facing hillside allows for impressive vistas to downtown Buffalo, and has been a favorite in the snowy winter months for its sledding and tobogganing. Rugged terrain, deep ravines, mature woodlands, open meadows, scenic picnic areas and miles of nature trails has made Chestnut Ridge a popular getaway from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The Eternal Flame, originally known as the “Burning Spring”, is now a regional destination on the ‘west’ section of the park. It has increased in popularity over the years with the addition of parking access and trailhead signage off of Chestnut Ridge Road, Route ,WLVZLWKLQWKLVUHPRWHVHFWLRQWKDWQDWXUHLVDWLWVÀQHVWZLWK its seemingly primitive wooded ravines and a most unique natural IHDWXUH WKHFRQVWDQWHPLVVLRQRIJDVSURGXFLQJDVPDOOÁDPH Chestnut Ridge Park’s popularity is not just for its natural wonder and unique assets, but also now for the increasing amount of events and activities that take place. Events such as “movie in the SDUNµQLJKWVNLWHÁ\LQJHYHQWVWHQQLVWRXUQDPHQWV.UDFHV6DQWD Park Location Map: Chestnut Ridge is located in the Town of Orchard Park Land, and Winterfest. These events have brought in thousands off of Chestnut Ridge Road of people to the park, due in part to the help and support of the Chestnut Ridge Conservancy and continued efforts of park staff. PARK SPECIFIC PRIORITIES • Preserve and enhance “Heritage” areas and special park features, including; Repoint/clean stonework where needed, replace missing stones, replace or repair roofs, make improvements WRFRQFUHWHDVSKDOWÁRRUVHWFWRDOOKLVWRULF VWUXFWXUHVDQGIDFLOLWLHV • Reduce lawn mowing to provide more natural VHWWLQJLQQRQXVHOLWWOHWUDIÀFNHGDUHDVDQGKHOS to shift park maintenance towards restoring older park structures. • Relocation of Disc golf holes to prevent continuous damage to natural areas and wildlife IURPH[FHVVLYHIRRWWUDIÀF Chestnut Ridge Casino VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-33 2.2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK FINAL PLAN PARK AND AREA HISTORY Chestnut Ridge Park is one of the original Erie County Parks, beginning its development in 1926. Much of the park construction was handled through the WPA work force through the 1930s; this consisted of shelters, pump VKHOWHUVFRORQ\RYHQVDQGSDYLOLRQV7KHPRVWVLJQLÀFDQW and prominent structure was and is the Casino, a stone building sitting atop a hill overlooking the surrounding park and community. The original timber Casino was built in DQGGHVWUR\HGE\ÀUHLQ 7KHSUHVHQWGD\VWRQH Casino was completed in 1938 by nearly 50 employees of the WPA. The use of stone in the construction of the park during the days of the WPA provided its structures with a UXVWLFIHHO7KHÁDJVWRQHDUHDEHKLQGWKHEXLOGLQJDOORZV park users to gaze upon marvelous views out towards Buffalo and even far out beyond Lake Erie to Canada. The design of bridges and cabins blended into the One of the original picnic shelters at the park (Photo Credit: natural beauty of the park and 3.5 miles of roads were Chestnut Ridge Conservancy) constructed to allow access to the natural areas of the park. The diversified forest provides many habitats to wildlife and opportunities for relief from urban living. Historic photograph - Playground at Chestnut Ridge 1940s master plan V2-34 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 Past and present views from the Chestnut Ridge Casino VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-35 2.2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK FINAL PLAN Many of the historic WPA pump shelters are still present throughout the park, which is a reminder of the heritage value RIWKHVHIHDWXUHVDQGWKHSDUNLWVHOI (Image Credit: Chestnut Ridge Conservancy) Existing WPA pump shelter, all of them no longer function V2-36 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 LOCAL CONTEXT Route 277, running north-south between the Village of Orchard Park and hamlet of North Boston, divides the park into two halves, with the park’s most developed section lying to the east of the state highway. Chestnut Ridge Park is strategically located at the center of the County’s overall park system holdings, and has easy and well-signed access from the local highway system (Route 219 to Armor Duells Road to Route 277 southbound). It also lies just off a major access route to the nearby ski areas RI6NL7DPDUDFNDQG.LVVLQJ%ULGJHDVZHOODVRIIRIWKHPDLQ route to Holiday Valley Ski Resort from points north (Route 219). RECREATIONAL CONTEXT At one point, Chestnut Ridge served as a central recreation facility for the local residents, including both active and passive forms of activities. It has always been a magnet for regional park users for certain types of recreation (i.e. sledding, hiking, etc.) and special events. Although still utilized for some organized sports, the Town of Orchard Park and the Orchard Park School District have since developed their own recreational facilities that offer many RIWKHDFWLYHUHFUHDWLRQDOFRXUWVDQGÀHOGVDWDORFDOOHYHO ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT Local context map Chestnut Ridge Park is home to a number of popular activities and events, but is also characterized by high quality woodlands with dramatic terrain crisscrossed by small headwater streams. The majority of these wooded areas are not heavily impacted by invasive species, but should be a high priority for surveillance so that their current high level of quality can be maintained. Particularly on the west side of the park, broad footpaths and roads make the woodlands accessible to a wide range of visitors, but also have the effect of creating erosive runoff patterns in some locations. Streambank erosion is minor in many areas, but is a significant issue in the southwest corner of the park, downstream from the Eternal Flame. Throughout the park, small areas formerly occupied by structures provide opportunities for closing forest habitat gaps. In some areas, unused lawns are opportunities to create wildflower meadow habitat. Historic view of people playing baseball at the park (Photo Credit: Chestnut Ridge Conservancy) VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-37 2.2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK FINAL PLAN RECENT PARKS DEPARTMENT PROJECTS / IMPROVEMENTS The 2012-2017 Capital Improvements within Chestnut Ridge Park totaled $2,719,032. Recent projects included: • Entrances from Chestnut Ridge Road – New guiderails installed • East Entrance Drive – Constructed median divider and LVODQGWRGHÀQHGULYHIURPSDUNLQJDGGHGOLJKWLQJ sidewalks, crosswalks and accessible parking spaces • Roadway Improvements – Repairs to Construction Road, Fire Tower Loop, Commissioners Cabin Road, and approximately 2 miles of roadway • Maintenance Parking Lot – Repaired pavement including drainage • Parking Lots – Repaired three parking lots including ADA Improvements to comfort station #8 drainage • Culverts – Replaced two major culverts at the lower end of the park • Casino – Replaced doors, added sidewalks and repaved around building. • Storage Building – Replaced roof, including portions of rotted deck, and electrical improvements. • Mechanic Shop – Replaced roof, new siding, doors and windows • 0DUWLQ/RGJH²5HSODFHGÁRRUDQGGRRUVXSJUDGHG UHVWURRPÀ[WXUHVUHSDLUHGDUHDVRIGDPDJHGEORFN masonry, and fascia. • Many improvements to various shelters and comfort stations • Tennis Courts – Twelve courts repaired, repaved and surfaced including new nets and posts • New viewing binoculars were installed on top of the sled hill next to the Casino New shelter construction • New Hamilton Ward Plaque installed at memorial site on west side of park • New fencing installed at Eternal Flame parking area • Roof completely torn off and replaced at Maintenance Shop • Complete renovation of comfort station #8 including ADA accessible stalls • Trail head kiosk and map installed at Eternal Flame parking lot New sign kiosk installed at the Eternal Flame Trailhead V2-38 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 CURRENT ISSUES AND PROBLEMS • The park is showing deterioration in its older, historic stone structures. • The arrival to the park near the casino is underwhelming DQG´RXWRIFKDUDFWHUµIRUWKLVPDJQLÀFHQWQDWXUDOSDUN A “sea of pavement” and views to the maintenance structures greets all visitors to the east side of the park. • Threats to natural reserve areas including erosion of ZDWHUZD\VIDOOHQOLPEVWUHHVGLVFJROIDQGLQYDVLYH species. • Lack of directional and interpretive signage highlighting the wonderful park structures and natural features • Most of the open space in the park is mowed, including areas that are beyond the recreational use areas. • There is an apparent underutilization of some of the park facilities, i.e. main casino building, concession stand, WPA comfort station in poor shape - not functional Martin Lodge, etc. • Popularity and heavy usage of the Disc Golf course is causing many environmental concerns to nature reserve ]RQHVLQFOXGLQJHURVLRQURRWWUHHGDPDJHDQGOLWWHULQJ • The park still contains many old wooden picnic tables, and some are in very poor shape. • There are numerous outdated play structures that do not meet current safety or accessibility codes. • Limited staff to operate tobaggan chutes. • Safety concerns and other issues over the management and maintenance of the Eternal Flame Trail. • Recent damage to trees from Emerald Ash Borer. • Trails very rarely have information providing users with trail name, map, trail length, etc. • No bathroom provided on west section of park during the winter - no heat. • West section of the park contains one primary vehicular entrance which is on the northern-most portion of the park, which could be an issue for emergency responders. Erosion and damage to the environment • “Shale Creek” portion of Chestnut Ridge Park contains VLJQLÀFDQWULSDULDQDQGDTXDWLFKDELWDWVWKDWDUHDWULVN from erosion, sedimentation, invasive species and lack of ecology-based management plans. • 5XQRIIIURP(WHUQDO)ODPHSDUNLQJORWÁRZVGLUHFWO\RQWR trail. No screening to the large maintenance area at the park as you enter near entrance VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-39 V2-40 V2-41 V2-42 V2-43 2.2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK FINAL PLAN 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 Historic Structures/WPA/Other Structures: • (C: 1.0-1.9, 3.0-15.0/ P: 4.0-9.0) Preserve and enhance original Heritage Areas, particularly the area around the Casino building. Restore historic stone structures, picnic shelters, comfort stations, pump houses and original park buildings; ʊ Restore old stone picnic shelters and structures before building new picnic shelters and structures. (Consider the heritage “value” of these old park features for future tourism and visitor appreciation). Consider the entire park for eligibility on the National Register of Historic Places. (2003 Master Plan) ʊ 5HSRLQWFOHDQVWRQHZRUNZKHUHQHHGHGUHSODFH missing stones, replace or repair roofs, make LPSURYHPHQWVWRFRQFUHWHDVSKDOWÁRRUVHWF ɵ Priority: High Historic WPA pump shelter ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH&KHVWQXW5LGJH &RQVHUYDQF\3%1 Original construction drawing of a typical parks pump shelter on the left; on the right is an existing pump shelter V2-44 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 Hamilton Ward Memorial site Eternal Flame WPA Shelter #25 • (C: 2.0-2.6) Provide interpretive signage throughout the • (P: 3.0) Restore Hamilton Ward Memorial; Replace park which can display historic images and content PLVVLQJVWRQHVUHSDLUORRVHVWRQHZRUNDQGFOHDQ RIVLJQLÀFDQWSDUNDVVHWVOLNHWKH(WHUQDO)ODPH)DOOV repoint stonework. Hamilton Ward site, WPA structures, etc. ʊ 3URYLGHZD\ÀQGLQJVLJQDJHWRÀQGKLJKOLJKWWKH ʊ Consider restoring and utilizing the numerous historic site. small stone pump shelters throughout the park as ɵ Priority: Medium new interpretive signage and informational kiosks ɵ3DUWQHU 3%1,Q+RXVH that would tie into the heritage park setting. ʊ Provide an interpretive “story-line” for the Park’s • (P: 2.0) Prevent further deterioration of Gateway pillars geological and post-settlement history, i.e. How at Newton Road entrance: Replace missing stones, and when the ravines and rock formations were repair loose stonework and clean and repoint stonework. formed? Improve entry with additional landscape treatment, etc. ʊ How did the park get its name? When was the ɵ Priority: Medium 9LOODJHDQG7RZQÀUVW6HWWOHG" ɵ3DUWQHU 3%1,Q+RXVH ʊ What’s the history behind the Eternal Flame? :KDWZHUHVRPHVLJQLÀFDQWKLVWRULFKDSSHQLQJV • (C: 20.0) Restore a single hand pump to be a fully in the area, or in the park? functional water source, as a potential historic element ʊ When were the WPA stone structures built?; What to show respect to the history of the park and gives the is the history behind the Round Barn site?; etc. youth a chance to operate a working pump. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House ɵ3DUWQHU 3%1,Q+RXVH VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-45 2.2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK FINAL PLAN • Investigate additional uses for Casino which may Maintenance/Safety: generate additional revenue; • (A: 2.0-3.3) Reduce lawn mowing to provide more ʊ Potential Visitor Information Center for Overall natural setting in non-recreational use areas, and help Erie County Park System. This could house to shift park maintenance towards restoring older park information for all of the parks in the County. In structures. (2003 Master Plan) addition, the Casino could be the “headquarters” ʊ Consider a large portion of the bottom of the sled and central administrative “clearinghouse” for hill to become a low-mow area, with a nature SLFQLFVKHOWHUDQGIDFLOLW\UHQWDOVUHVHUYDWLRQVIRU trail connecting park users with various scenic all of the parks. locations of the park. ɵ Priority: Low ʊ Establish select zones of ‘no-mow’ naturalized ɵ Partner: Chestnut Ridge Conservancy areas where excess lawn is being mowed with SRWHQWLDOZLOGÁRZHUVDQGPHDGRZV • (P: 10.0) Restoration of ‘100 steps’ on east side of ɵ Priority: High park would produce a new destination spot at Chestnut ɵ Partner: In-House Ridge. ʊ :LWKVXIÀFLHQWVWDIIDQGIXQGVFRQVLGHUSRWHQWLDO trails and connections at base of steps to allow for future exploration of the park and its scenic assets. ʊ Continue to prevent access to stairs in the short term. Preserve steps for future long-term restoration effort. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ3DUWQHU 6LJQLÀFDQWLQYHVWPHQWIURP &KHVWQXW5LGJH&RQVHUYDQF\DQGRURWKHU UHVRXUFHVJUDQWV • (A: 1.0) Consider park for eligibility on the National Register of Historic Places. (2003 Master Plan) ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House Large mowed area in front of the Casino Missing stones and damage observed at the ‘100 steps’ V2-46 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 • (A: 13.0) Prioritize the safety and maintenance of the main trail to the Eternal Flame. ʊ Stabilize trails and prevent erosion issues; ʊ Remove fallen limbs and trees that increase risk of tripping hazards and falls for trail users trying to see the Flame. ʊ Provide proper warnings and signage alerting XVHUVRIWKHGLIÀFXOWLHVRIWKHWUDLO$GGLWLRQDO warnings and information may be needed (i.e. proper footwear, dangerous for young children, etc.) ʊ Repair steps and provide possible railings (new railings to be sensitive to park aesthetics) in areas where safety and accessibility is a concern. Further studies needed to continue to properly maintain safety of the trail. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: In-House • (C: 18.0) Divert runoff from primary park trails wherever possible; especially at the base of the Eternal Flame trail where the trail starts at the parking lot. ʊ Install planting areas or rain gardens as a means of capturing runoff from parking area. ʊ Construction of drainage swales may also be appropriate to divert water from trails. Water was pooling into the trail from the Eternal Flame parking lot ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: In-House A view into the snowy woods near the Eternal Flame Trail VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-47 2.2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK FINAL PLAN Eternal Flame waterfall • (P: 11.0) Design and construct alternative methods and viewing points to see the waterfall and the Eternal Flame. Provide a safe route which may reduce possible risk to park users wishing to see the natural feature. ʊ Provide railings directly north of the Eternal Flame falls off the trail as it meanders towards the edge of the ravine. This can add a layer of safety for those trying to see the natural attraction from the trail itself. ʊ Provide new steps down areas of the ravine where it is not as steep, to bring people to a possible overlook area over the creek. ʊ This can be a concept that may be applied to other parks with similar situations, like Emery 3DUNZLWKZDWHUIDOOVWKDWDUHGLIÀFXOWWRDFFHVV ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ3DUWQHU &KHVWQXW5LGJH&RQVHUYDQF\ Grants Fallen limbs in several cases nearly prevent people from getting to the Eternal Flame V2-48 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 • Improve ADA access throughout the park wherever reasonable and feasible. (2003 Master Plan) ʊ New renovations can present opportunities to address standards in ADA accessibility. These FDQLQFOXGHIRUH[DPSOHGHVLJQLQJVSRUWVÀHOGV courts for greater accessibility and seating, LPSURYHGDFFHVVLELOLW\XSGDWHGVXUIDFHVWR children play areas, and potential paving of new trails for people with mixed abilities. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House • (C: 17.0) “Soften” the appearance of the existing large parking area between the casino and tennis courts by providing additional landscape treatments and trees to this important visual setting. ʊ Provide appropriate buffers and screening to the maintenance yard, such as landscaped berms Renovated ADA accessible comfort station - As improvements to other and rain gardens. Screening the maintenance structures continue, ADA accessibility should be considered area creates a better sense of place upon arrival LQWRWKH&DVLQRSDUNDUHD ʊ %HWWHURUJDQL]HDQGGHÀQHWKHSDUNLQJORWZLWK painted spaces and driving lanes, landscaped islands, etc. ʊ Prioritize methods of green infrastructure including rain gardens and other bio-retention strategies throughout the large lot. Better strategies of stormwater management will prevent contaminants and pollutants entering QHDUE\VWUHDPVUDYLQHV ʊ Main lot at Chestnut Ridge is the priority, but other larger parking areas may also be suitable for possible rain gardens and planting medians. ʊ Engage consultant to design improvements and engage contractor to construct improvements ɵ Priority: Medium Large parking area is in need of additional landscape treatment ɵ Partner: In-House Large parking area is in need of additional landscape treatment VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-49 2.2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK FINAL PLAN • (A: 14.0) Continue to remove all old wooden picnic tables throughout the park. Dispose of rotten and decayed tables, and repair all those that can be salvaged. (2003 Master Plan) ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House Connectivity/Signage: • (A: 7.0-7.4) Establish Minor Gateways, welcome sign and rules, for the park at the following locations: ʊ Newton Road entrance ʊ Eternal Flame Falls parking lot ʊ Boy Scout Trail parking lot ʊ South entrance to east side of park ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH+LJKZD\ Large parking area is in need of additional landscape treatment • (A: 8.0-8.10) Promote natural and cultural heritage interpretation and enjoyment throughout the park through an expanded trail system and park signage; SURYLGHQHZZD\ÀQGLQJV\VWHPWREULQJDZDUHQHVVWR existing trails and hidden park features, e.g. the 100 stone steps, stone monument area, impressive ravines, waterfalls, Commissioner’s Pond, etc. ʊ Provide ADA access to these important and scenic vista locations. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House • Continue progress with expansion, enhancements, and connectivity among park trails. ʊ Provide kiosks with trail maps and rules at select trailhead locations (develop similar models to the one recently installed at the Eternal Flame Trailhead) ʊ Provide interpretive signage along the trails Orienteering Trail KLJKOLJKWLQJÁRUDIDXQDDQGZLOGOLIH ʊ Design and provide distinct trail markers for better park orientation. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH)RUHVWU\ • (C: 19.0) Improve transition/connection from east section of park to west section. Provide additional signage and/or painted crosswalks at the on/off ramps to route 277. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ3DUWQHU 1<6'27,Q+RXVH Commissioner’s Cabin and pond V2-50 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 Recreation: • (A: 6.1) Continue to improve and maintain playground structures throughout park. ʊ 3URYLGHRUUHSOHQLVKÀEHUIDOOVXUIDFHVDW playgrounds annually. ʊ 5HSODFHVZLQJVSOD\HTXLSPHQWDVQHHGHGGXHWR wear and tear. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: In-House • (P: 1.0) Potential relocation of some Disc golf holes to less environmentally sensitive areas to prevent continuous damage to natural areas and wildlife. ʊ 6KLIWVRPHKROHVDZD\IURPZRRGHGIRUHVWDUHDV into existing mowed lawn areas. Disc golf at Ellicott Creek Park and Como Lake Park is played across their mowed lawn areas, and result in far less damage to the landscape. Work with Niagara Region Disc Golf to redesign the course into less environmentally sensitive areas. Provide alternate hole locations to reduce compaction. ʊ Further studies and analysis is needed. Playground near the Martin Lodge ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: Niagara Region Disc Golf Heavy usage of the Disc Golf Course is eroding away the forest understory VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-51 2.2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK FINAL PLAN • (QKDQFHDQGSURPRWHÀVKLQJSODWIRUPDW • (P: 12.0) Repurpose or restore baseball diamond based Commissioner’s Pond. on usage and partnership opportunities. Coordinate ʊ Provide park rules sign at pond enforcing ‘catch with Visit Buffalo Niagara to explore tournament and DQGUHOHDVHRQO\·QRERDWVQRLFHÀVKLQJHWF recreation prospects. ʊ )LVKVSHFLHVLQFOXGH ODUJHPRXWKEDVVVXQÀVK ɵ Priority: Low and yellow perch ɵ3DUWQHU 9LVLW%XIIDOR1LDJDUD&KHVWQXW ɵ Priority: Medium Ridge Conservancy ɵ Partner: In-House • (A: 16.0) Relocate smaller (3 piece) playground • (A: 6.2) Remove the numerous old metal playground components out of West section of park. Playground structures and equipment that dot the landscape features take away from the Heritage and natural scenic throughout the park. These pieces of equipment are value of the park. outdated, most are unsightly, and many do not meet any ɵ Priority: Low current playground safety requirements. ɵ Partner: In-House ʊ Consideration should be given to several “legacy” playground pieces, such as the shoe slide. This equipment appeared to be in good condition and could be maintained in the park as a feature or considered artwork, without a fall surface which would encourage its use as a play event. ʊ Consider earthtone colors for playground equipment in the Heritage park setting rather than bright, primary colors. ʊ Reuse old playground equipment by reaching out to local artists and craftsmen. The metal parts could be used as installation pieces located throughout the park. (2003 Master Plan) ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House • Promote and expand four seasons use of the park, including winter use – e.g. tobogganing, sledding, cross- country skiing, weekend sleigh rides. ʊ ,QYHVWLJDWHRSSRUWXQLWLHVIRUÁRRGLQJDUHDIRULFH skating. Toboggan chutes ʊ Current snowmobile trails should be properly SRVWHGWRDYRLGIXWXUHPXOWLXVHFRQÁLFWV Master Plan) ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House Old non-compliant swingset with missing swings in the middle of the woods One of the many old non-compliant metal playground pieces of equipment scattered throughout the park V2-52 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 Environment: • (A: 4.1-4.2) 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. ʊ Provide new tree plantings throughout the park, particularly along the roadway edges. ʊ Develop a multi-pronged approach to tree planting strategy including contracted work, in- house staff and volunteer group plantings. ʊ Develop annual tree planting program to restore tree canopy and improve natural image of the park. ʊ Apply for funding from NYSDEC for example for purchase of trees and materials and for the tree inventory. Baseball diamond on the east side of the park ɵ Priority: High ɵ3DUWQHU :1<3ULVP(&6:')RUHVWU\ • (P: 13.0) Management and monitoring of invasive species is imperative to the health of the park. ʊ Address and remove threatening invasive species. ɵ Priority: High ɵ3DUWQHU :1<3ULVP(&6:' • (P: 14.0) Encourage and emphasize natural features and opportunities to connect with park ecology. ʊ Prioritize protection and enhancement of sensitive ecological areas; ʊ Propose appropriate additional native plantings throughout the park; ʊ 3ULRULWL]HSODQWLQJVIRUELUGDQGEXWWHUÁ\KDELWDWV ʊ Designate potential native plant gardens to Playground on the west side of the park is in a somewhat random location, promote educational and interpretive elements this area should be low-mow/no-mow (Relocate playground to active area) Large wooded area behind Shelter #2 VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-53 2.2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK FINAL PLAN ZKLOHLQFUHDVLQJKDELWDWVIRULQVHFWELUGKDELWDWV ʊ The County should encourage the development of outdoor classrooms through partnerships with local schools. Outdoor classrooms can be living laboratories for local children to immerse themselves in nature and our local ecosystem. ɵ Priority: High ɵ3DUWQHU 1<6'(&&RUQHOO&RRSHUDWLYH ([WHQVLRQ(&6:',Q+RXVH • (A: 17.0) Allow West section of park to become more ‘natural’ and passive in use. ʊ Refrain from adding new playgrounds. ʊ 5HPRYHROGEDFNVWRSVIURPEDOOÀHOGVQRWLQXVH ʊ Allow passive mowed areas to naturalize into PHDGRZVQDWXUDOUHVHUYHDUHDV ʊ Remaining picnic shelters on west side of park should be evaluated in terms of usage. Shelters VKRXOGEHUHPRYHGRUUHSXUSRVHGLIVLJQLÀFDQW repairs are needed or deemed unsafe. If they are historic or considered WPA, shelters should be preserved and repaired. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House Shelter #117 WPA era pump shelter surrounded by low-mow area V2-54 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 9LHZGRZQWKH&UHHNZKLFKÁRZVDORQJWKH2ULHQWHHULQJ7UDLOGRZQWKURXJKWKH(WHUQDO)ODPH VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-55 2.2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK FINAL PLAN CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Establish “Natural Regeneration Areas” to Establish “Natural Regeneration A2.0reduce overall maintenance and provide $UHDVµLGHQWLÀHGRQWKH0DVWHU High 1-2 Years In-House wildlife habitat Plan Establish “Low Mow Zones” to reduce Establish “Low Mow Zones” A3.1overall maintenance and provide wildlife LGHQWLÀHGRQWKH0DVWHU3ODQ High 1-2 Years In-House habitat Establish “Low Mow Zones” to reduce Provide necessary signage along overall maintenance and provide wildlife the “Low Mow Zones” to inform In-House, A3.3habitat the public the reasons behind the High 1-2 Years practice and also to identify the Highway areas to park personnel. Increase tree health and tree canopy 3UXQHDQGRUUHPRYHWUHHV throughout the park. The overall age of the if determined to present an tree population at the Park is considered increased risk to park patrons to be mature, with limited young trees to and employees. In-House, A4.1 High Ongoing renew the resource over time. Develop Forestry a multi-pronged tree planting strategy including contracted work, in-house staff and volunteer group plantings Continue to improve playground safety Provide or replenish engineered A6.1 ÀEHUIDOOVXUIDFHVDWSOD\JURXQGV High Ongoing P.O.B. annually. Improve safety on pedestrian bridge near Review railing condition to A11.0Commissioners Cabin determine if they can be repaired High 1-2 Years In-House or require replacement Prioritize the safety and maintenance of the Utilize parks staff to perform main trail to the Eternal Flame. Stabilize improvements and repairs to trail trails and prevent erosion issues; Remove during a routine basis fallen limbs and trees that increase risk of tripping hazards and falls for trail users trying to see the Flame. Provide proper A13.0warnings and signage alerting users of the High Ongoing In-House GLIÀFXOWLHVRIWKHWUDLO$GGLWLRQDOZDUQLQJV and information may be needed (i.e. proper footwear, dangerous for young children, etc.) Repair steps and provide possible railings in areas where safety and accessibility is a concern. Shelter #7 - Posts have rot, replace roof Engage contractor to perform C1.2 repairs High 1-2 Years $10,000 KEY: A: Action Item: Completed at low to no cost by Parks staff C: Capital Project 3 $VVLVWDQFHRUFRPSOHWLRQRISURMHFWE\SRWHQWLDOSDUWQHUXVHUJURXS 32% 3DUNV2SHUDWLQJ%XGJHW V2-56 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Shelter #12 - Potential structural issues Engage a consultant to review the C1.9 structure and determine a course High 1-2 Years $22,000 of action. 5HFRQÀJXUHWKHGLVFJROIURXWHWRDYRLG Coordinate with Niagara Region environmentally sensitive areas. Disc Golf regarding a new course layout. Accommodate alternative P1.0 hole positions to reduce High 1-2 Years $15,200 FRPSDFWLRQHURVLRQIURP UHSHWLWLYHIRRWWUDIÀF Management and monitoring of invasive Coordinate with WNY Prism, species is imperative to the health of the ECSWD, and others. P13.0park. Address and remove threatening High Ongoing Partner invasive species. Prioritize protection and enhancement Designate potential native of sensitive ecological areas; Propose pollinator plant gardens to appropriate additional native plantings promote educational and P14.0throughout the park; interpretive elements while High Ongoing Partner LQFUHDVLQJKDELWDWVIRULQVHFW bird habitats. Increase tree health and tree canopy Develop an annual tree planting throughout the park. The overall age of the program. A4.2tree population at the Park is considered to Medium Ongoing P.O.B. be mature, with limited young trees to renew the resource over time. Improve aesthetics along east entrance Utilize parks staff to perform driveway, between Casino and parking lot improvements A5.0through additional tree plantings. Medium 3-5 Years P.O.B. Establish Minor Gateways, welcome sign Coordination between Parks & 6-10 In-House, A7.0and rules, for the park at the following Highways to develop and produce Medium locations: the sign panels Years Highway Newton Road entrance Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce 6-10 In-House, A7.1 Medium the sign panels Years Highway Eternal Flame Falls parking lot Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce 6-10 In-House, A7.2 Medium the sign panels Years Highway Boy Scout Trail parking lot Coordination between Parks & 6-10 In-House, A7.3 Highways to develop and produce Medium the sign panels Years Highway VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-57 2.2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK FINAL PLAN CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost South entrance to east side of park Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce 6-10 In-House, A7.4 Medium the sign panels Years Highway 3URYLGHFRQVLVWHQWZD\ÀQGLQJDQG Coordination between Parks & directional signage within the park: Highways to develop and produce A8.0 the directional sign panels, trail Medium 3-5 Years In-House maps and trail markers. Boy Scout Trail, only maps Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce A8.1 the directional sign panels, trail Medium 3-5 Years In-House maps and trail markers. XC Ski Outer Loop, maps and trail markers Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce A8.10 the directional sign panels, trail Medium 3-5 Years In-House maps and trail markers. Eternal Flame Falls Trail, only maps Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce A8.2 the directional sign panels, trail Medium 3-5 Years In-House maps and trail markers. Orienteering Trail, only maps Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce A8.3 the directional sign panels, trail Medium 3-5 Years In-House maps and trail markers. Reservoir Trail, maps and trail markers Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce A8.4 the directional sign panels, trail Medium 3-5 Years In-House maps and trail markers. Seufert Trail, maps and trail markers Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce A8.5 the directional sign panels, trail Medium 3-5 Years In-House maps and trail markers. Snowmobile Trail, maps and trail markers Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce A8.6 the directional sign panels, trail Medium 3-5 Years In-House maps and trail markers. Ward Hill Trail, only maps Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce A8.7 the directional sign panels, trail Medium 3-5 Years In-House maps and trail markers. KEY: A: Action Item: Completed at low to no cost by Parks staff C: Capital Project 3 $VVLVWDQFHRUFRPSOHWLRQRISURMHFWE\SRWHQWLDOSDUWQHUXVHUJURXS 32% 3DUNV2SHUDWLQJ%XGJHW V2-58 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Ward Hill Walkway, maps Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce A8.8 the directional sign panels, trail Medium 3-5 Years In-House maps and trail markers. XC Ski Inner Loop, maps and trail markers Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce A8.9 the directional sign panels, trail Medium 3-5 Years In-House maps and trail markers. Ensure that shelters, comfort stations and Coordination between Parks and 6-10 A 12.0 EXLOGLQJVDUHLGHQWLÀDEOH Highways to develop and produce Medium In-House the sign panels. Years Continue to remove all old wooden picnic Utilize parks staff to perform tables throughout the park. Dispose of improvements A14.0rotten and decayed tables, and repair all Medium Ongoing In-House those that can be salvaged. Allow West section of park to become more Educate parks staff on A17.0‘natural’ and passive in use. procedures and improvements Medium Ongoing In-House Prevent further deterioration of the following Engage contractor to perform C1.0picnic shelters: repairs Medium 3-5 Years X Shelter #4 - Replace roof and repair gable Engage contractor to perform C1.1ends repairs Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Shelter #14 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform C1.3 repairs Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Shelter #19A - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform C1.4 repairs Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Shelter #20 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform C1.5 repairs Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Shelter #24 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform C1.6 repairs Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Shelter #33A - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform C1.7 repairs Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Shelter #37 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform C1.8 repairs Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Prevent further deterioration of WPA Era Engage contractor to perform C3.0Shelter #13. Replace roof. repairs Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Prevent further deterioration on WPA Era Engage contractor to perform C4.0Comfort Station #7. Roof repairs required repairs Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-59 2.2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK FINAL PLAN CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Prevent further deterioration on WPA Era Engage contractor to perform C5.0Comfort Station #12. Replace roof and repairs Medium 3-5 Years $12,500 fascia boards, repair broken windows. Improve safety and accessibility on Engage consultant to design pedestrian bridge near Shelter #31. improvements and engage Construct railings and approach guiderails, contractor to construct C16.0provide a level transition to bridge approach. improvements Medium 3-5 Years $30,000 Potentially replace entire bridge with accessible structure. Divert runoff from primary park trails Engage consultant to design wherever possible; especially at the base of improvements and engage the Eternal Flame trail where the trail starts contractor to construct or C18.0at the parking lot. Install planting areas or have parks staff to implement Medium 3-5 Years P.O.B. rain gardens as a means of capturing runoff improvements from parking area. Prevent further deterioration of Gateway Refer to partnership opportunity pillars at Newton Road entrance. Replace with PBN 6-10 P2.0 Medium $6,000 missing stones, repair loose stonework and Years clean and repoint stonework. Design and construct alternative methods 6LJQLÀFDQWLQYHVWPHQWIURP and viewing points to see the waterfall and Chestnut Ridge Conservancy the Eternal Flame. Provide a safe route DQGRURWKHUJUDQWVUHVRXUFHV 6-10 P11.0 Medium $200,000 which may reduce possible risk to park increased staff would be needed. Years users wishing to see the natural feature. Consider park for eligibility on the National Coordinate with the State Historic Register of Historic Places 3UHVHUYDWLRQ2IÀFHUDVVLJQHG to Erie County to complete the A1.0 Low Ongoing In-House required nomination forms and submit to a State review board. Establish “Low Mow Zones” to reduce Begin an educational program, overall maintenance and provide wildlife through the use of the County’s habitat website, to the general public A3.2 Low 3-5 Years In-House which provides information regarding the “Low Mow Zone” program Improve playground safety Remove playground equipment that is not compliant with current A6.2 regulations, with the exception of Low Ongoing In-House “legacy” pieces of equipment KEY: A: Action Item: Completed at low to no cost by Parks staff C: Capital Project 3 $VVLVWDQFHRUFRPSOHWLRQRISURMHFWE\SRWHQWLDOSDUWQHUXVHUJURXS 32% 3DUNV2SHUDWLQJ%XGJHW V2-60 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Reduce damage to turf areas and reduce Utilize parks staff to perform erosion by providing a resilient surface, such repairs A9.0as crushed stone or millings at each shelter Low Ongoing P.O.B. location. Relocate smaller (3 piece) playground Utilize parks staff to perform A16.0components out of West section of park. improvements Low 3-5 Years In-House Provide interpretive signage in the park: Coordinate with historical society to develop copy and obtain C2.0 images for the interpretive Low Ongoing In-House content. Geological history Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and 6-10 C2.1 Low $3,500 produce sign panels, installation Years In-House Eternal Flame Falls Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and 6-10 C2.2 produce sign panels, installation Low $3,500 Years In-House Hamilton Ward Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and 6-10 C2.3 Low $3,500 produce sign panels, installation Years In-House Round Barn Site Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and 6-10 C2.4 produce sign panels, installation Low $3,500 Years In-House 100 Stone Steps Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and 6-10 C2.5 Low $3,500 produce sign panels, installation Years In-House History of WPA structures Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and 6-10 C2.6 produce sign panels, installation Low $3,500 Years In-House Prevent further deterioration on WPA Era Engage contractor to perform Old Comfort Station “L” (Note this comfort repairs station is located near shelter #33A, as 6-10 C6.0there are two comfort stations numbered Low $12,500 with 13). Replace roof and fascia boards, Years repair broken windows and doors. VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-61 2.2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK FINAL PLAN CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Prevent further deterioration of WPA Era Engage contractor to perform 6-10 C7.0Pump Shelter #22, south of Shelter #1A, repairs Low $10,000 replace roof Years Prevent further deterioration of WPA Era Engage contractor to perform 6-10 C8.03XPS6KHOWHUHDVWRI0DF.LQQRQ repairs Low $10,000 Lodge, replace roof Years Prevent further deterioration of WPA Era Engage contractor to perform 6-10 C9.0Pump Shelter #64, south of Shelter #27, repairs Low $10,000 Years replace roof Prevent further deterioration of WPA Era Engage contractor to perform 6-10 C10.0Pump Shelter #58, near Ward Hill Trailhead, repairs Low $10,000 replace roof Years Prevent further deterioration of WPA Era Engage contractor to perform Pump Shelter #55, near Hamilton Ward repairs 6-10 C11.0 Low $10,000 memorial, replace roof Years Prevent further deterioration of WPA Era Engage contractor to perform 6-10 C 12.0 Pump Shelter #51, east of Shelter #37, repairs Low $10,000 replace roof Years Prevent further deterioration of WPA Era Engage contractor to perform Pump Shelter #44, east of Shelter #38, repairs 6-10 C13.0 Low $10,000 replace roof Years Prevent further deterioration of WPA Era Engage contractor to perform 6-10 C14.0VWRQHVKHGQHDUÀVKLQJSLHUSDUNLQJORW repairs Low $10,000 replace roof Years Prevent deterioration of Comfort Station #2. Engage contractor to perform 6-10 C15.0Clean, re-point and paint exterior CMU walls. repairs Low $7,500 Years Provide adequate visual landscape Engage consultant to design screening at the maintenance facility and improvements and engage storage yard. Remove a portion of pavement contractor to construct 6-10 C17.0 Low $17,500 and construct a planted berm or rain improvements Years garden, including evergreens, native trees and shrubs. ,PSURYHWUDQVLWLRQFRQQHFWLRQIURPHDVW Engage consultant to design section of park to west section. Provide improvements and engage 6-10 C19.0DGGLWLRQDOVLJQDJHDQGRUSDLQWHG contractor to construct or Low $10,000 FURVVZDONVDWWKHRQRIIUDPSVWRURXWHhave parks staff to implement Years improvements KEY: A: Action Item: Completed at low to no cost by Parks staff C: Capital Project 3 $VVLVWDQFHRUFRPSOHWLRQRISURMHFWE\SRWHQWLDOSDUWQHUXVHUJURXS 32% 3DUNV2SHUDWLQJ%XGJHW V2-62 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 CHESTNUT RIDGE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Restore a single pump shelter to be a fully Refer to partnership opportunity functional water source, as a potential park with PBN Additional C 20.0 destination and to show respect to the Low 3-5 Years Studies history of the park. Needed Restore the Hamilton Ward memorial. Refer to partnership opportunity Replace missing stones, repair loose with PBN 6-10 P3.0 Low $20,000 stonework and clean and repoint stonework Years Prevent further deterioration of WPA Era Refer to partnership opportunity 6-10 P4.0incinerator west of Shelter #24. Repair loose Low $12,500 with PBN Years and missing stones, repoint stonework. Prevent further deterioration on WPA Era Refer to partnership opportunity Comfort Station #1. Replace missing stones, with PBN 6-10 P5.0 Low $20,000 reset loose stones, clean and repoint Years mortar. Prevent further deterioration on WPA Era Refer to partnership opportunity Comfort Station #5. Replace missing with PBN 6-10 P6.0 Low $9,000 stones, reset loose stones, clean and Years repoint mortar. Prevent further deterioration on WPA Era Refer to partnership opportunity Comfort Station #11. Replace missing with PBN 6-10 P7.0 Low $9,000 stones, reset loose stones, clean and Years repoint mortar. Prevent further deterioration on WPA Era Refer to partnership opportunity Comfort Station #12. Replace missing with PBN 6-10 P8.0 Low $9,000 stones, reset loose stones, clean and Years repoint mortar. Prevent further deterioration on WPA Era Refer to partnership opportunity Old Comfort Station “L” (Note this comfort with PBN station is located near shelter #33A, as 6-10 P9.0there are two comfort stations numbered Low $25,000 with 13). Replace missing stones, reset Years loose stones, clean and repoint mortar. Restoration of ‘100 steps’ on east side of 6LJQLÀFDQWLQYHVWPHQWIURP park Chestnut Ridge Conservancy 6-10 P10.0 DQGRURWKHUJUDQWVUHVRXUFHV Low Partner increased staff would be needed. Years Repurpose or restore baseball diamond Coordinate with Visit Buffalo P 12.0 based on usage and partnership Niagara Low 3-5 Years P.O.B. opportunities VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-63 V2-64 7+,63$*(,17(17,21$//</()7%/$1. V2-65 7+,63$*(,17(17,21$//</()7%/$1. V2-66 2.3 COMO LAKE PARK FINAL PLAN COMO LAKE PARK DESCRIPTION Como Lake Park is a 524-acre park facility located in both the Village and Town of Lancaster, approximately 14 miles east RIGRZQWRZQ%XIIDOR7KHSDUNZDVDPRQJWKHÀUVWIRXUSDUNV acquired by the County in 1926, and lies along the banks of Cayuga Creek. The park includes a dam and lake at its western HQGZLWKQDWXUDOLVODQGVH[WHQVLYHSLFQLFJURXQGVSOD\ÀHOGVDQG courts, skating rink, sledding hill and nature trails. This Heritage park includes numerous old stone park structures that continue to enjoy heavy use by both local residents and those coming out from the urban areas to enjoy a slice of nature. In contrast to much of the manicured older park areas and picnic groves, the eastern-most section of Como Lake Park (east of Bowen Road) is an undeveloped natural zone straddling Cayuga Creek. The park in recent years has continued to see increased popularity for its location among dense residential areas. The park has added an 18-hole Disc golf course (2007) and a multi-generational fitness station, diversifying its attractions and unique role within the regional park context. Park Location Map: Como Lake Park is located in both the Town and Village of Lancaster with several entrances within the community PARK SPECIFIC PRIORITIES • Preserve and enhance Heritage areas and special park features, including; Repoint/clean stonework where needed, replace missing stones, replace or repair roofs, make improvements WRFRQFUHWHDVSKDOWÁRRUVHWFWRDOOKLVWRULF VWUXFWXUHVDQGIDFLOLWLHV • Reduce lawn mowing to provide more natural setting: Create and provide meadows and ZLOGÁRZHUDUHDVLQKLJKYLVLELOLW\DUHDVWRSURGXFH DPRUHQDWXUDOSDUNODQGVFDSH • Improve pedestrian safety and provide improvements/upgrades to pedestrian bridges crossings onto the islands. Improve bridges to be ADA compliant if possible and repair missing/ EURNHQUDLOV Como Lake VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-67 2.3 COMO LAKE PARK FINAL PLAN PARK AND AREA HISTORY Como Lake Park was originally developed as a Village of Lancaster Municipal Park beginning in 1923. The original acquisition totaled 120 acres, with later acquisitions adding an additional 404 acres. The Park was originally developed as a water-oriented park to serve the densely populated area along Broadway from Buffalo to the Villages of Depew and Lancaster. In fact, boating was once a popular activity in the lake and around the islands. Archived plans show that a PDJQLÀFHQW´%DWK+RXVHµIDFLOLW\ZDVGHVLJQHGDQGSURSRVHG to be built on one of the islands, but apparently never came to fruition. Original activities also included a small zoo. WPA crews handled much of the physical development of the park. WPA crews built many structures and features of the park which still stand today including numerous picnic shelters and the old stone Lighthouse which overlooks the dam. LOCAL CONTEXT Como Lake Park is a well-known and integral part of the historic Village of Lancaster. The park sits on the southeast side of the Village, and extends westerly along the Cayuga Creek corridor. Lake Avenue forms the park’s western edge, while Bowen Road bisects the park and forms the boundary between the developed older section from the undeveloped section of the park at the eastern end. Development patterns Local context map 1940s master plan of the park V2-68 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 have shifted as new subdivisions are constructed to the south native trees now can reduce the time until a new generation of the park off of William Street. Much of the area to the east of canopy trees can take over from those that will be lost. of the park is still rural in nature, but Como Park remains one of the most heavily used parks in the system. RECENT PARKS DEPARTMENT PROJECTS / IMPROVEMENTS RECREATIONAL CONTEXT The 2012-2017 Capital Improvements within Como Lake Park totaled $902,711. Recent projects included: This large multi-purpose heritage park once provided most all recreational amenities for the Town and Village of Lancaster, as • Comfort Station D – Replaced roof and fascia boards well as the Village of Depew. It also once served as a magnet • Comfort Station E – New glass block installed, ceiling for Buffalo residents, who could easily reach the park via public replacement, and interior painting transportation. More recently, Lancaster has become one of • Shelter #5 – Replaced roof Western New York’s fastest growing suburban communities, • Shelter #9 – Repaired support posts, constructed new spreading development into eastern areas beyond the Park, plywood ceiling where farms once dominated the landscape. This recent • Shelter #13 – Replaced roof and fascia boards surge in population growth has also come with the demand • Shelter #14 – New parking area for expanded recreational facilities. The Town and Village have • Shelter #17 – Replaced roof and fascia boards looked to expand their recreational offerings to provide many • Shelter #18 – Replaced roof and fascia boards new opportunities to the area residents, and thus lessened the • Shelter #19 – Replaced roof and fascia boards QHHGIRU&RPR3DUNWRSURYLGHODUJHÀHOGVIRURUJDQL]HGVSRUWV • Shelter #29 – New shelter constructed • Shelter #32 – Replaced roof and fascia boards ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT • Shelter #33 – Replaced roof and fascia boards • Shelter #39 – Replaced roof Como Lake park consists of low-lying terrain, characterized • Shelter #49 – New parking area by moisture-loving woodland communities and floodplain • Shelter #50 – New parking area wetlands. Much of the park has traditionally been kept • Shelter #56 – Replaced roof as mowed lawns, but Parks staff have already begun to • 6KHOWHU²5HSODFHGURRIFRQFUHWHÁRRUDQG reduce the area mowed, in an effort to increase habitat constructed new parking area value and redirect resources toward other maintenance needs. There is significant acreage remaining that could EHFRQYHUWHGWRUHJHQHUDWHGIRUHVWRUZLOGÁRZHUPHDGRZV Cayuga Creek is both a major asset and an area of concern in Como Lake Park. The creek provides wildlife habitat and interest for park users, but is subject to severe seasonal ÁRRGLQJDQG´ÁDVKLQHVVµRUUDSLGO\ÁXFWXDWLQJVWUHDPÁRZ Resulting rapid bank erosion reduces habitat value, visitor safety, and enjoyment. These conditions also contribute to rapid sedimentation of the man-made lake at the northwest corner of the park. The lake must be dredged periodically to prevent it from filling in entirely. While it is not under consideration at this time, in the long term interest may develop in removing the dam in order to improve stream habitat connectivity and provide a new type of recreational opportunity. Invasive plant species are a serious concern within the park, particularly along parts of the stream bank. Large areas of Japanese Knotweed are particularly prominent along parts of the islands, in areas that are well used by visitors. Because Ash species are more common in low-lying areas like &RPR/DNH3DUNWKHSURSHUW\ZLOOOLNHO\EHPRUHVLJQLÀFDQWO\ impacted by the Emerald Ash Borer than some other parks in the system. This means large changes will come to the forested parts of the park in the coming years. Beginning to plant new Old photograph of one of the pedestrian bridges on the islands VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-69 2.3 COMO LAKE PARK FINAL PLAN • New guardrail installed along main park road curve. • Installed new multi-generational exercise recreation area. • Installed new steel chain link fence on the slope of the sledding hill to separate children sledding from those walking back up to the top of the hill, installed lights. • Alternative hold locations installed for Disc Golf holes (2018). • Sealed and striped tennis courts, added pickle ball striping (2018). • Sealed and striped basketball courts (2018). CURRENT ISSUES AND PROBLEMS • The park is showing deterioration in its older, historic stone structures. • The interior of the park has many unattractive and out of character large paved areas, indicating an era of more Large asphalt parking lot in front of the skating area heavy use of certain facilities. • Vehicular circulation and park signage is very confusing. • Health of Como Lake/the Dam continues to be an issue. Build-up of silt and debris is producing more islands, thus reducing the health and aesthetic of the lake. • There is a lack of directional and interpretive signage highlighting the wonderful park structures and natural features. • Most of the open space in the park is mowed, including areas that are beyond the recreational use areas. • There is an apparent underutilization of some of the park facilities. • There is a lack of connection/linkage to the surrounding neighborhoods. • Some play structures are starting to become outdated, most are from the late 90’s/early 2000’s. • Park maps on website are outdated and do not show some amenities. The shoreline continues to suffer from erosion • 0DQ\VKHOWHUVDUHVKRZLQJJHQHUDOZHDULQWKHLUURRÀQJ and interior columns/face boards. Some shelters appear to be leaning. • Cayuga Creek is rapidly eroding the streambank in certain areas of the park resulting in loss of land, and trees that are falling into the water. • /DFNRIGHÀQLWLRQDQGRUJDQL]DWLRQRISDUNLQJDUHDV especially the lot south of the Casino. Many WPA shelters are in need of repairs and preservation V2-70 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE V2-71 V2-72 FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 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 Historic Structures/WPA/Other Structures: • (C: 3.0-5.0/ P: 2.0-4.0) Preserve/enhance and restore Heritage Areas within the park – i.e. westernmost section of the park, lighthouse, dam and lake, islands, etc. Preserve and enhance historic setting of lawn and tree canopy; (2003 Master Plan) ʊ Restore old stone picnic shelters and structures before building new picnic shelters and VWUXFWXUHV &RQVLGHUWKHKHULWDJH´YDOXHµRI these old park features for future tourism and visitor appreciation). There are too many varied picnic structures throughout the park. Consider park for eligibility on the National Register of Historic staircase down to the Creek Historic Places. (2003 Master Plan) ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: In-House/PBN Historic WPA Lighthouse VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-73 2.3 COMO LAKE PARK FINAL PLAN Foundation from old boat house Stonework is starting to break apart at many shelters and structures • (A: 1.0) Consider park for eligibility on the National Register of Historic Places. (2003 Master Plan) ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House • (C: 12.0) Restore/reconstruct former structure at the west tip of the islands (currently has wood deck cover) as park pavilion or bandshell, etc. ʊ Structure has a great view at the base of the lake ɵ Priority: Low %DOOÀHOGDQGROGEDFNVWRSFRXOGKDYHSRWHQWLDOIRUIXWXUHUHFUHDWLRQDO ɵ Partner: In-House opportunities • Consider removal of future shelters to include the demolition of the shelter as well as associated asphalt drive, foundation, and parking area. ʊ Many shelters that have been removed have the old asphalt drive, parking area, and foundation still in place. ʊ Allow area to renaturalize and revert back to the natural landscape. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House Concrete foundation remains from removed structure V2-74 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 Maintenance/Safety: • Improve ADA access throughout the park wherever is • (A: 2.0-3.3) Reduce lawn mowing to provide more reasonable and feasible. (2003 Master Plan) natural setting in non-use areas, and help to shift park ʊ Renovations present opportunities to address maintenance towards restoring older park structures. standards in ADA accessibility. These can include ɵ Priority: High IRUH[DPSOHGHVLJQLQJVSRUWVÀHOGVDQGFRXUWV ɵ Partner: In-House for greater accessibility and seating, improved accessibility/updated surfaces to children play • (C: 8.0-9.1) Make improvements/upgrades to pedestrian areas, and potential paving of new trails for bridge crossings onto the islands. people with mixed abilities. ʊ Improve bridges to be ADA compliant if possible. ɵ Priority: Medium ʊ Repair missing/broken rails ɵ Partner: In-House ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: Consultant/Contractor Existing pedestrian bridge over the Creek VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-75 2.3 COMO LAKE PARK FINAL PLAN • (C: 11.0) Provide medians/parking islands in parking lot • (A: 6.0-6.3) Establish Minor Gateways, welcome sign south of Casino separating lot from Quincy Avenue. This and rules, for the park at the following locations: would improve pedestrian and vehicular safety and break ʊ Bowen Road up the large area of asphalt. ʊ Pardee Avenue ʊ Construct a planted berm or rain garden, ʊ North Bridge including evergreens, native trees, and shrubs. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House/Highway ɵ Partner: Consultant/Contractor/In-House • (A: 7.0-7.2) Promote natural and cultural heritage Connectivity/Signage: interpretation and enjoyment throughout the park • (C: 2.0-2.3) Provide new interpretive signage and through an expanded trail system and park signage; informational kiosks that tie the park better “into the SURYLGHQHZZD\ÀQGLQJV\VWHPWREULQJDZDUHQHVVWR mix” with other local cultural and historical attractions. existing trails and hidden park features (2003 Master Plan) ɵ Priority: Medium ʊ 3URYLGHDQLQWHUSUHWLYH´VWRU\OLQHµIRUWKH3DUN ɵ Partner: In-House and area’s history, i.e. When was the Village and 7RZQÀUVW6HWWOHG" :KDW·VWKHKLVWRU\EHKLQGWKH • (C: 1.0-1.2) Establish enhanced gateways for the park at /LJKWKRXVHDQG'DP":KDWZHUHVRPHVLJQLÀFDQW the following locations: KLVWRULFKDSSHQLQJVLQWKHDUHDRULQWKHSDUN" ʊ William Street :KHQZHUHWKHROGVWRQHVWUXFWXUHVEXLOW" ʊ Como Lake Boulevard Master Plan) ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House ɵ Partner: In-House :D\ÀQGLQJVLJQDJH V2-76 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 • Continue progress with expansion, enhancements, and connectivity among park trails. ʊ Provide kiosks with trail maps and rules at select trailhead locations. ʊ Provide interpretive signage along the trails KLJKOLJKWLQJÁRUDIDXQDDQGZLOGOLIH ʊ Design and provide distinct trail markers for better park orientation. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House/Forestry • (A: 9.0-9.5) Provide directional signage to the park at strategic locations: ʊ Intersection of Lake Avenue and Como Park Boulevard ʊ Intersection of William Street and Lake Avenue ʊ Intersection of William Street and Bowen Road ʊ Intersection of Broadway and Bowen Road ʊ Intersection of Broadway and Lake Avenue ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House Orienteering Trailhead Park signage off of Bowen Road VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-77 2.3 COMO LAKE PARK FINAL PLAN • (A: 11.0) Improve park circulation through consolidation environmentally detrimental and adequate of roadways and path system; Consider a new round- infrastructure exists (or would be economically DERXWIHDWXUHWREHWWHU´RUJDQL]HµWKHSDUNURDGZD\V feasible to provide). where the southern access drive meets the internal road ɵ Priority: High network. (2003 Master Plan) ɵ Partner: Lancaster Unleashed/Usergroups ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House • (P: 6.0) Coordinate with Visit Buffalo Niagara to promote and improve recreational opportunities at Como Lake Recreation: Park. • (A: 5.0) Improve and maintain playground structures ʊ Park has many areas of existing open space throughout park. which could be used for additional recreational ʊ 3URYLGHRUUHSOHQLVKÀEHUIDOOVXUIDFHVDW sporting activities. playgrounds annually. ɵ Priority: Medium ʊ Replace swings/play equipment as needed due ɵ Partner: Visit Buffalo Niagara/Lancaster to wear and tear. Recreation ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: In-House • (P: 1.0) Work with Niagara Region Disc Golf (NRDG) to repair and restore degraded areas around Disc Golf Holes. ʊ Explore the possibility of updating hole locations, such that they can be easily pulled up from their location and moved to a different nearby area. (Like on a typical golf course) ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: Niagara Region Disc Golf • Establish clear partnership responsibilities and duties pertaining to future dog park areas and other recreational proposals within the park. ʊ Coordinate with Lancaster Unleashed to adhere to partnership policy, locate a sensible location for a dog park which would not be 5HFHQWO\LQVWDOOHGPXOWLJHQHUDWLRQDOÀWQHVVDUHD Large playground featured on east side of park V2-78 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 • (A: 5.1) Improve playground facilities throughout the • Promote and expand four-seasons recreational park. opportunities in Como Lake Park, including the sledding ʊ Remove and replace oldest structures on-site. hill, skating rink and cross-country ski trails. Consider earthtone colors in the Heritage park ɵ Priority: Low setting rather than bright, primary colors (2003 ɵ Partner: In-House Master Plan) ɵ Priority: Medium • (C: 14.0) Explore the potential for transforming one ɵ Partner: In-House of the basketball courts into a ‘multi-purpose court’. Court could accommodate several sports and become a • (A: 12.0) Remove old backstop in large mowed area destination for the youth of the neighborhood. adjacent to the sled hill. ɵ Priority: Low ʊ This can be a potential area for soccer, lacrosse, ɵ Partner: VBN/In-House or other activities like a potential bark park, etc. in response to the recreational trends of the community. ʊ This mowed area is in close proximity to parking and restrooms. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: VBN/Lancaster Recreation • (QKDQFHÀVKLQJDFFHVVDQGRSSRUWXQLWLHVDORQJ&D\XJD Creek. This includes establishing strategically placed ÀVKLQJSODWIRUPVRUVWRQHDUHDVDVZHOODVSDWKVWR multiple areas of the Creek for access. ʊ The DEC annually stocks about 3,000 keeper- sized rainbow trout in early April. Trout are stocked in 5 locations from Como Lake to the pavilion on Bowen Road. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House/NYSDEC • Consider additional recreational opportunities such as paddle boats or kayak uses in the lake. (2003 Master Plan) ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: Private Businesses )RRWWUDIÀFDQGKHDY\XVDJHDW'LVF*ROIKROHLVFDXVLQJGDPDJHWRWKH surrounding landscape Newly striped tennis courts Basketball courts VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-79 2.3 COMO LAKE PARK FINAL PLAN Environment: • Maintain and enhance natural wooded buffers along • (A: 4.1-4.2) Improve the tree health of the park, in perimeter; This will offer more protection for the natural particular within maintained areas. open space as more and more houses are built around ʊ Remove dead, dying or diseased trees. the park. (2003 Master Plan) ʊ Prune deadwood from trees. ɵ Priority: Medium ʊ Routinely monitor the tree population for ɵ Partner: In-House indications of pest infestations. ʊ Provide new tree plantings throughout the park, • (A: 13.0) Preserve and enhance the environmental particularly along the roadway edges. character of the islands at Como. ʊ Develop a multi-pronged approach to tree ʊ Create low-mow/meadow areas where planting strategy including contracted work, in- appropriate; house staff and volunteer group plantings. ʊ 'HÀQHWUDLOVXUIDFHRQLVODQGV ʊ Develop annual tree planting program to restore ʊ Repair and improve character of the pedestrian tree canopy and improve natural image of the bridges; park. ʊ Remove invasive species from shoreline areas. ʊ Apply for funding from NYSDEC for example for ɵ Priority: Medium purchase of trees and materials and for the tree ɵ Partner: NYSDEC/ECSWD inventory. ɵ Priority: High • (A: 14.0) Enhance views of the creek; currently there are ɵ Partner: WNY PRISM/ECSWD/Forestry few, if any, spots to see the Creek from any of the picnic groves. Remove invasive species and take down any • (P: 10.0) Encourage and emphasize natural features trees in decay. and opportunities to connect with park ecology. ɵ Priority: Low ʊ Prioritize protection and enhancement of ɵ Partner: In-House/ECSWD sensitive ecological areas; ʊ Propose appropriate additional native plantings • (C: 15.0) Promote the expansion of the existing “Cayuga throughout the park; Creek Nature Trail” system, to continue along the Creek ʊ 3ULRULWL]HSODQWLQJVIRUELUGDQGEXWWHUÁ\KDELWDWV bank in both directions, with important signage and ʊ Designate potential native plant gardens to connections to other park attractions and picnic groves. promote educational and interpretive elements ʊ Provide ADA access to scenic creek vista while increasing habitats for insect/bird habitats; locations. (2003 Master Plan) ʊ The County should encourage the development ʊ %HWWHUGHÀQHWUDLOVDORQJ&D\XJD&UHHNZLWK of outdoor classrooms through partnerships HQKDQFHPHQWVLQFOXGLQJZD\ÀQGLQJVLJQDJH with local schools. Outdoor classrooms can be viewing areas, interpretive signage, and benches. living laboratories for local children to immerse ʊ Provide distinct trailheads with updated map themselves in nature and our local ecosystem. information and trail descriptions. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: NYSDEC/Cornell Cooperative ɵ Partner: In-House/Consultant Extension/ECSWD/In-House • (P: 11.0) Management and monitoring of invasive species is imperative to the health of the park. ʊ Address and remove threatening invasive species. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: WNY Prism/ECSWD • (P: 7.0) Continue to improve the health of Como Lake because of continued accumulation of debris and silt. The lake is an important cultural/environmental landmark in Lancaster and the community strongly supports the on-going efforts to see the lake revitalized. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: Grants/Other Resources Como Lake V2-80 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 • (P: 8.0) Establish an “Eco-Park” setting in the wooded and meadow areas at the far eastern, undeveloped section of the park, ZRXOGQHHGVLJQLÀFDQWSDUWQHUVKLS involvement; i.e. NYS DEC, Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper, local agencies. ʊ Provide a pedestrian bridge crossing over the Creek ʊ Establish a unique system of nature trails to view an impressive naturalization area of meadows and young woodlands. This would provide a new recreational and educational opportunity to the residents in the area, and provide enhanced protected habitat for wildlife. ʊ Parking would initially be shared with the Bowen Road Picnic Grove. ʊ Future developments could include a small nature interpretive/educational facility with meeting room. ʊ New native plantings could be introduced to strengthen perimeter buffers, improve creek shoreline conditions, and enhance wildlife habitat. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: NYSDEC/Buffalo Niagara Existing conditions on one of the islands at Como Waterkeeper • (P: 5.0) Improve the health of Cayuga Creek. Work with NYSDEC, Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper, and other local stakeholder groups. ʊ Focus projects should include stream bank stabilization and erosion control, habitat conservation and restoration, stormwater management, and contaminant reduction. ʊ Continued improvements to the ecological status of the creek and naturalization of the surrounding wooded areas can contribute to educational nature programs and trail/water recreation. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: NYSDEC/Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper 6LJQLÀFDQWHURVLRQRIWKHEDQNSLFWXUHGKHUH VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-81 2.3 COMO LAKE PARK FINAL PLAN COMO LAKE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost (VWDEOLVK´1DWXUDO5HJHQHUDWLRQ (VWDEOLVK´1DWXUDO5HJHQHUDWLRQ$UHDVµ $UHDVµWRUHGXFHRYHUDOO LGHQWLÀHGRQWKH0DVWHU3ODQ A2.0maintenance and provide wildlife High 1-2 Years In-House habitat (VWDEOLVK´/RZ0RZ=RQHVµWR (VWDEOLVK´/RZ0RZ=RQHVµLGHQWLÀHGRQ A3.1reduce overall maintenance and the Master Plan High 1-2 Years In-House provide wildlife habitat (VWDEOLVK´/RZ0RZ=RQHVµWR Provide necessary signage along the reduce overall maintenance and ´/RZ0RZ=RQHVµWRLQIRUPWKHSXEOLFWKH A3.3provide wildlife habitat reasons behind the practice and also to High 1-2 Years In-House identify the areas to park personnel. Increase tree health and tree Prune and/or remove trees if determined canopy throughout the park. The to present an increased risk to park overall age of the tree population patrons and employees. at the Park is considered to be mature, with limited young In-House, A4.1 High Ongoing trees to renew the resource over Forestry time. Develop a multi-pronged tree planting strategy including contracted work, in-house staff and volunteer group plantings Improve playground safety 3URYLGHRUUHSOHQLVKHQJLQHHUHGÀEHUIDOO A5.0 surfaces at playgrounds annually. High Ongoing P.O.B. Shelter #7 - Potential structural Engage a consultant to review the C3.1issues structure and determine a course of High 3-5 Years $17,500 action. Shelter #55 - Potential structural Engage a consultant to review the C3.10issues structure and determine a course of High 3-5 Years $17,500 action. Shelter #47 - Potential structural Engage a consultant to review the C3.9issues structure and determine a course of High 3-5 Years $20,000 action. Prevent further deterioration of Engage a consultant to review the :3$(UDVWUXFWXUH´/DQFDVWHU structure and determine a course of C4.03ODFHµ5HSDLUVODEIRXQGDWLRQQHDUaction. Engage contractor to perform High 1-2 Years $33,000 women’s restroom. repairs 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 V2-82 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 COMO LAKE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Shelter #10 - Potential structural Engage a consultant to review the C6.1issues structure and determine a course of High 3-5 Years $15,000 action. Shelter #13 - Potential structural Engage a consultant to review the C6.2issues structure and determine a course of High 3-5 Years $7,500 action. Improve pedestrian safety on the Engage contractor to perform repairs to C9.1Middle Bridge undermined bridge approach slab. High 1-2 Years $25,000 5HFRQÀJXUHWKHGLVFJROIURXWHWR Coordinate with Niagara Region Disc avoid environmentally sensitive Golf regarding a new course layout. P1.0areas. Accommodate alternative hole positions High 1-2 Years $15,200 to reduce compaction / erosion from UHSHWLWLYHIRRWWUDIÀF Prioritize protection and Designate potential native pollinator plant enhancement of sensitive gardens to promote educational and P10.0ecological areas; Propose interpretive elements while increasing High Ongoing Partner appropriate additional native habitats for insect/bird habitats. plantings throughout the park; Management and monitoring of Coordinate with WNY Prism, ECSWD, and invasive species is imperative to others. P11.0the health of the park. Address High Ongoing Partner and remove threatening invasive species. Increase tree health and tree Develop an annual tree planting program. canopy throughout the park. The overall age of the tree population at the Park is considered to be mature, with limited young A4.2trees to renew the resource over Medium Ongoing P.O.B. time. Develop a multi-pronged tree planting strategy including contracted work, in-house staff and volunteer group plantings Establish Minor Gateways, welcome Coordination between Parks & Highways 6-10 In-House, A6.0sign and rules, for the park at the to develop and produce the sign panels Medium following locations: Years Highway Bowen Road Coordination between Parks & Highways 6-10 In-House, A6.1 Medium to develop and produce the sign panels Years Highway Pardee Avenue Coordination between Parks & Highways 6-10 In-House, A6.2 to develop and produce the sign panels Medium Years Highway VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-83 2.3 COMO LAKE PARK FINAL PLAN COMO LAKE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost North Bridge Coordination between Parks & Highways 6-10 In-House, A6.3 Medium to develop and produce the sign panels Years Highway 3URYLGHFRQVLVWHQWZD\ÀQGLQJDQG Coordination between Parks & Highways directional signage within the park: to develop and produce the directional A7.0 sign panels, trail maps and trail markers. Medium 3-5 Years In-House Cayuga Creek Nature Trail, maps Coordination between Parks & Highways and trail markers to develop and produce the directional A7.1 sign panels, trail maps and trail markers. Medium 3-5 Years In-House Overall park maps showing drives, Coordination between Parks & Highways A7.2amenities and shelter locations to develop and produce the directional Medium 3-5 Years In-House sign panels and maps. Ensure that shelters, comfort Coordination between Parks and A10.0stations and buildings are Highways to develop and produce the Medium 3-5 Years In-House LGHQWLÀDEOH sign panels. Preserve and enhance the Utilize parks staff to perform environmental character of the improvements and enhancements islands at Como. Create low-mow/ A13.0meadow areas where appropriate; Medium 3-5 Years P.O.B. 'HÀQHWUDLOVXUIDFHRQLVODQGV Prevent further deterioration of the Engage contractor to perform repairs C3.0following WPA Era picnic shelters: Medium 3-5 Years X Shelter #57 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs C3.11 Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Unnamed Shelter near garage - Engage contractor to perform repairs C3.12Replace roof Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Shelter #8 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs C3.2 Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Shelter #11 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs C3.3 Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 C3.4Shelter #20 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 C3.5Shelter #21 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Shelter #22 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs C3.6 Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Shelter #37 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs C3.7 Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 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 V2-84 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 COMO LAKE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Shelter #40 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs C3.8 Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 Prevent further deterioration on Engage contractor to perform repairs C5.0:3$(UD&RPIRUW6WDWLRQ´&µ Medium 3-5 Years $32,000 Replace roof. Prevent further deterioration of the Engage contractor to perform repairs C6.0following picnic shelters: Medium 3-5 Years X Shelter #15 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs C6.3 Medium 3-5 Years $10,000 6KHOWHU5HSODFHÁRRUVODE Engage a consultant to review the C6.4potential structural issues structure and determine a course of Medium 3-5 Years $17,500 action. Improve pedestrian safety on the Engage a consultant to determine if North Bridge H[LVWLQJUDLOLQJVFDQEHPRGLÀHGWREH C8.0 brought into compliance, or if a new Medium 3-5 Years $9,200 railing system is required. Improve pedestrian safety on the Engage a consultant to determine if Middle Bridge H[LVWLQJUDLOLQJVFDQEHPRGLÀHGWREH C9.0 brought into compliance, or if a new Medium 3-5 Years $9,200 railing system is required. Improve pedestrian safety adjacent Engage contractor to perform repairs the Casino, replace areas of C10.0 Medium 3-5 Years $5,250 deteriorating concrete pavement. Prevent further deterioration of Refer to partnership opportunity with PBN :3$(UDVWUXFWXUH´/DQFDVWHU P3.03ODFHµ5HSODFHPLVVLQJVWRQHV Medium 3-5 Years $33,000 reset loose stones, clean and repoint mortar. Continue to improve the health of Coordinate with local stakeholders and Como Lake because of continued agencies for funding and resources accumulation of debris and silt. The lake is an important cultural/ P7.0environmental landmark in Medium Ongoing Partner Lancaster and the community strongly supports the on-going efforts to see the lake revitalized. (QKDQFHÀVKLQJDFFHVVDQG Coordinate with NYSDEC and other opportunities along Cayuga usergroups Creek. This includes establishing Partner P9.0VWUDWHJLFDOO\SODFHGÀVKLQJ Medium 3-5 Years platforms or stone areas, as well as In-House paths to multiple areas of the Creek for access. VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-85 2.3 COMO LAKE PARK FINAL PLAN COMO LAKE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Consider park for eligibility on the Coordinate with the State Historic National Register of Historic Places 3UHVHUYDWLRQ2IÀFHUDVVLJQHGWR(ULH A1.0 County to complete the required Low Ongoing In-House nomination forms and submit to a State review board. (VWDEOLVK´/RZ0RZ=RQHVµWR Begin an educational program, through reduce overall maintenance and the use of the County’s website, to the A3.2provide wildlife habitat general public which provides information Low 3-5 Years In-House UHJDUGLQJWKH´/RZ0RZ=RQHµSURJUDP Continue to improve playground Remove playground equipment that is safety not compliant with current regulations, A5.1 Low Ongoing In-House ZLWKWKHH[FHSWLRQRI´OHJDF\µSLHFHVRI equipment Reduce damage to turf areas and Utilize parks staff to perform repairs reduce erosion by providing a A8.0resilient surface, such as crushed Low Ongoing P.O.B. stone or millings at each shelter location. Provide directional signage to the Coordination between Parks & Highways park at strategic locations: to develop and produce the sign panels, 6-10 In-House, A9.0 Low and coordinate with the road jurisdiction Years Highway regarding placement of the signs. Intersection of Lake Avenue and Coordination between Parks & Highways Como Park Boulevard to develop and produce the sign panels, 6-10 In-House, A9.1 and coordinate with the road jurisdiction Low Years Highway regarding placement of the signs. Intersection of William Street and Coordination between Parks & Highways Lake Avenue to develop and produce the sign panels, 6-10 In-House, A9.2 Low and coordinate with the road jurisdiction Years Highway regarding placement of the signs. Intersection of William Street and Coordination between Parks & Highways Bowen Road to develop and produce the sign panels, 6-10 In-House, A9.3 Low and coordinate with the road jurisdiction Years Highway regarding placement of the signs. 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 V2-86 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 COMO LAKE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Intersection of Broadway and Coordination between Parks & Highways Bowen Road to develop and produce the sign panels, 6-10 In-House, A9.4 Low and coordinate with the road jurisdiction Years Highway regarding placement of the signs. Intersection of Broadway and Lake Coordination between Parks & Highways Avenue to develop and produce the sign panels, 6-10 In-House, A9.5 Low and coordinate with the road jurisdiction Years Highway regarding placement of the signs. Improve park circulation through Coordination between Parks and DPW consolidation of roadways and path system; Consider a new round- 6-10 A11.0DERXWIHDWXUHWREHWWHU´RUJDQL]Hµ Low In-House the park roadways where the Years southern access drive meets the internal road network. Remove old backstop in large Utilize parks staff to perform repairs mowed area adjacent to the sled hill. This can be a potential area for 6-10 A 12.0 Low In-House soccer, lacrosse, or other activities, Years etc. Enhance views of the creek; Utilize parks staff to perform currently there are few, if any, spots improvements and enhancements to see the Creek from any of the A14.0picnic groves. Remove invasive Low 3-5 Years P.O.B. species and take down any trees in decay. Establish Enhanced Gateways for Engage a consultant to develop sign 6-10 C1.0the park at the following locations: types including copy, structure and Low X landscape typology for each location. Years William Street Engage a consultant to develop sign 6-10 C1.1 types including copy, structure and Low $17,800 landscape typology for each location. Years Como Park Boulevard Engage a consultant to develop sign types including copy, structure and 6-10 C1.2 Low $17,800 landscape typology for each location. Years Provide interpretive signage in the Coordinate with historical society to C2.0park: develop copy and obtain images for the Low Ongoing In-House interpretive content. The lighthouse and dam Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and produce sign 6-10 C2.1 panels, installation In-House Low $3,500 Years VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-87 2.3 COMO LAKE PARK FINAL PLAN COMO LAKE PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Flora/fauna on the Bowen Grove Engage a consultant to develop high portion of the park resolution graphics and produce sign 6-10 C2.2 Low $3,500 panels, installation In-House Years History of WPA structures Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and produce sign 6-10 C2.3 Low $3,500 panels, installation In-House Years Improve pedestrian safety on the Replace bridge in its entirety 6-10 C7.0pedestrian bridge near Shelter #23. Low $17,500 Years Enhance pedestrian/vehicular Engage consultant to design safety along Quincy Ave. Remove a improvements and engage contractor to portion of pavement between the construct improvements drive and parking lot (approximately 6-10 C11.0 Low $85,000 420-feet by 20-feet) and construct Years a planted berm or rain garden, including evergreens, native trees and shrubs. Restore/reconstruct former Engage consultant to design structure at the west tip of the improvements and engage contractor to 6-10 C 12.0 islands (currently has wood construct improvements Low $20,000 deck cover) as park pavilion or Years bandshell, etc. Explore the potential for Engage consultant to design transforming one of the basketball improvements and engage contractor to 6-10 C14.0 Low $10,000 courts into a ‘multi-purpose court’. construct improvements Years Promote the expansion of the Engage consultant to design H[LVWLQJ´&D\XJD&UHHN1DWXUH improvements and engage contractor to 7UDLOµV\VWHPWRFRQWLQXHDORQJWKH construct improvements Creek bank in both directions, with 6-10 C15.0 Low $10,000 important signage and connections Years to other park attractions and picnic groves. Prevent further deterioration of the Refer to partnership opportunity with PBN 6-10 P2.0 Low $ following WPA Era picnic shelters: Years Shelter #11 - Replace missing Refer to partnership opportunity with PBN 6-10 P2.1stones, reset loose stones, clean Low $15,000 and repoint mortar. Years 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 V2-88 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Shelter #20 - Replace missing Refer to partnership opportunity with PBN stones, reset loose stones, clean 6-10 P2.2 Low $20,000 and repoint mortar. Years Unnamed Shelter near garage - Refer to partnership opportunity with PBN Replace missing stones, reset loose 6-10 P2.3 Low $16,000 stones, clean and repoint mortar. Years Prevent further deterioration on Refer to partnership opportunity with PBN :3$(UD&RPIRUW6WDWLRQ´&µ 6-10 P4.0 Low $32,000 Reset loose stones, clean and Years repoint mortar. Improve the ecological status of Coordinate and partner with Buffalo Cayuga Creek through stream Niagara Waterkeeper and NYSDEC to bank stabilization, erosion develop projects similar to the Living P5.0control, habitat conservation Shoreline project in Ellicott Creek Park Low Ongoing $75,000 and restoration and storm water management Park has many areas of existing Coordinate with Visit Buffalo Niagara open space which could be used to promote and improve recreational 6-10 P6.0 Low Partner for additional recreational sporting opportunities at Como Lake Park. Years activities. (VWDEOLVKDQ´(FR3DUNµVHWWLQJLQ 6LJQLÀFDQWSDUWQHUVKLSLQYROYHPHQW LH the wooded and meadow areas NYS DEC, Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper, 6-10 P8.0 Low $100,000 at the far eastern, undeveloped local agencies. Years section of the park VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-89 V2-90 THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK V2-91 THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK V2-92 2.4 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK FINAL PLAN ELLICOTT CREEK PARK DESCRIPTION At 165 acres, Ellicott Creek Park is one of the original Heritage parks in the County system, and is entirely within an urban environment setting. The park is centrally located and easily accessed by residents of Tonawanda, Amherst, Buffalo, and North Tonawanda (Niagara County), and is also a destination along area bike routes, including the Ellicott Creek Bike Path (via the Town of Amherst), and Erie Canalway Trail which connects with the Shoreline Trail. It is one of the four oldest parks in the system, acquired by the County in 1925 due to its attractive landscape setting between Ellicott Creek and the Erie Canal (Tonawanda Creek). This beautiful Heritage park is noted for its impressive collection of old stone structures and ZDWHUIURQWVHWWLQJ(OOLFRWW&UHHN3DUNLVJHQHUDOO\ÁDWZKLFKZDV FRQVLGHUHGLGHDOIRUWKHGHYHORSPHQWRIPDQ\ÀHOGVSRUWVDQGDFWLYH recreation, such as tennis and ice- skating. The Park is bisected by DPDMRUÁRRGZD\FRUULGRU VSLOOZD\ÁXPH EHWZHHQWKHWZR&UHHNV Park Location Map: Ellicott Creek Park is located in the Town of Tonawanda PARK SPECIFIC PRIORITIES • Preserve and enhance Heritage areas and special park features, including; Repoint/clean stonework where needed, replace missing stones, replace or repair roofs, make improvements WRFRQFUHWHDVSKDOWÁRRUVHWFWRDOOKLVWRULF VWUXFWXUHVDQGIDFLOLWLHV • Reduce lawn mowing in passive recreational DUHDVSURYLGHPHDGRZVDQGZLOGÁRZHUVWR enhance natural character of park. • Coordinate with Friends of Ellicott Island Bark Park to maintain and upgrade amenities on Ellicott Island, as well as protecting and HQKDQFLQJVHQVLWLYHVKRUHOLQHFRQGLWLRQV WPA-era Boathouse Ruins VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-93 2.4 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK FINAL PLAN PARK AND AREA HISTORY No park in the system is more connected to the region’s historical development than Ellicott Creek Park. It was constructed along the banks of the historic Erie Canal. The majority of the original 40 acres was acquired through purchasing private land and County tax foreclosures (1936 & 1937). During the 1930s, WPA crews built the original stone structures and park features. Ellicott Island, A.K.A. “Island at Three-mile Bend” was constructed to make the creek more navigable and divert FDQDOWUDIÀF&KDUOHV(OOLFRWWDODQGVFDSHDUFKLWHFWKHDYLO\ LQÁXHQFHGWKHLVODQGLQWKHGHVLJQSURFHVV7KHUHVLGHQWLDO building boom of the 1930s and 1940s established Ellicott Creek Park as a mecca for boaters and family picnics. The more recent decades of the 1970s, 80s and early 90s were not overly positive for Ellicott Creek Park. These were years of neglect and overgrowth, which tended to attract undesirable activities into the park. This led to a “less-than- positive” reputation for the park that was not very attractive for Ellicott Island Boathouse family picnics or conducive for comfortable outings. However, beginning in the mid and late 1990s, Ellicott Creek Park saw a major resurgence in County attention, maintenance and care that has regained its positive standing with the community. The park, once again, enjoys large crowds of people utilizing its many diverse recreational amenities. Ellicott Island WPA Concession Stand V2-94 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 1940’s master plan VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-95 2.4 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK FINAL PLAN LOCAL CONTEXT Ellicott Creek Park is located in the northwest corner of Erie County along the shore of Tonawanda Creek, which also forms the boundary line with Niagara County. The park is entirely within an urban environment. The Park is strategically located between the Towns of Tonawanda, Amherst and City of North Tonawanda, and is less than 2 PLOHVIURPWKH7RZQVRI:KHDWÀHOGDQG3HQGOHWRQDVZHOO as the City of Tonawanda. The University at Buffalo North Campus is situated only a few miles to the east, and is linked to the Park via the Ellicott Creek Bike Path (7.2 miles). The area south of Ellicott Creek Park is heavily populated and densely developed, including the mega-commercial developments along busy Niagara Falls Boulevard, while the area to the north of the park into Niagara County continues to grow with more residential and commercial development. Convenient access is provided to the park via numerous area roadways, with Niagara Falls Boulevard providing a direct linkage to the I-290 (Youngman Expressway), less than 2 miles south of the park. Residents of the Village of Kenmore and City of Buffalo can also easily utilize public transportation routes to access the Park. Creekside Drive cuts through the park along the Canal edge, while Ellicott Creek Road forms the southern border of the park Most of Ellicott Creek Park lies within the Town of Tonawanda, with a small portion lying within the Town of Amherst. North Tonawanda (Niagara County) lies on the opposite side of the Tonawanda Creek that forms the western/northern boundary of the Park. Local context map Snow covered Ellicott Island V2-96 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 RECREATIONAL CONTEXT Ellicott Creek Park has many diverse recreational facilities, and tends to be many things to many people. It offers both active and passive recreation opportunities. While beginning as more of a passive park with a boating and water-based theme, active recreational facilities were added to the park as the demand for these facilities grew strong. At one point, Ellicott Creek Park was one of the only parks of its kind around the area, and thus served the wholesale recreational needs of the public. However, the area surrounding the park has grown tremendously since the 1920s, and over the years, Town parks began to be added and began to take the active recreational pressure away from Ellicott Creek Park. This is particularly true with Brighton Park, a Town of Tonawanda park that is located less than a mile away, and offers numerous recreational facilities. Many other Tonawanda and Amherst Town parks also provide additional recreational amenities. In 2010 the Niagara Region Disk Golf Association constructed an 18-hold disk golf course. In the last few years one of the tennis courts have recently been turned into a pickleball court, a kayak launch has been installed, and the India Association ÀQLVKHGSODQVIRUDUHJXODWLRQ&ULFNHW3LWFKRQDIRUPHU VRIWEDOOÀHOGZLWKLQWKHSDUN(OOLFRWW&UHHN3DUNKDVIXUWKHU Area around Disc Golf hole has reverted to bare dirt, because of excessive separated itself from many of the County parks for the diverse IRRWWUDIÀFDQGXVH amount of recreational amenities. ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT Ellicott Creek Park is characterized by low-lying floodplain landscapes. It is quite “urban” in character, with little VLJQLÀFDQWQDWXUDODUHD,WLVLPSRUWDQWWRNHHSRSHQDUHDV for active recreation. Some parts of the park are less used, however, and these areas can be naturalized into IRUHVWRUZLOGÁRZHUPHDGRZKDELWDW(YHQLQPRUHIRUPDO park areas, understory trees can be added to increase the complexity and diversity of the urban forest habitat. The park’s unique location between two major streams presents opportunities to celebrate and restore shoreline habitat. Projects such as the recent Living Shoreline demonstration can help connect residents with nearby nature. They can therefore be considered to improve habitat not just for wildlife but for human beings as well. Invasive species are a moderate concern at Ellicott Creek Park, particularly on Ellicott Island. It is desirable to replace them with natives wherever possible. To this end, the Friends of Ellicott Island Bark Park have established an on-site native plant nursery, from which they are able to plant small restoration areas. Because Ash species are more common in low-lying areas like Ellicott Creek Park, the property will likely be more VLJQLÀFDQWO\LPSDFWHGE\WKH(PHUDOG$VK%RUHUWKDQVRPH Ellicott Creek with its expanse of open lawn areas is a popular destination for recreational activities VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-97 2.4 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK FINAL PLAN other parks in the system. Beginning to plant new native trees now can reduce the time until a new generation of canopy trees can take over from those that will be lost. RECENT PARKS DEPARTMENT PROJECTS / IMPROVEMENTS The 2012-2017 Capital Improvements within Ellicott Creek Park totaled $307,202. Recent projects included: • Comfort Station 5 – Waterline repaired, electrical upgrades/repairs, drainage work, new siding, and general carpentry • Ellicott Island parking lot – Resurfaced • Shelter #3 – Replaced roof • Shelter #10A / 10B – Replaced roofs • Friendship Building – Complete remodel of men’s and women’s restrooms, including ADA compliant stalls; additional upgrades completed (2018) • &DVLQR²1HZGRRUVDQGÀUHSODFHLQVHUW • Pedestrian Bridge PK-6 – Railings replaced New kayak launch installed 2017 • New pickleball court created on existing tennis court • Chimney repaired and repointed at Casino • Roofs completely replaced at shelters 2, 3, & 4. Concrete • Cricket Pitch installed on former softball/baseball pads completely replaced at shelters 3 & 17. diamond (2017) • Roof replaced on WPA pump shelter near main entrance • New kayak launch installed off of Ellicott Creek Road and off of Niagara Falls Blvd. (2018) Niagara Falls Blvd. (2017) • 700 trees to be planted throughout park through • Paved parking lot off of new kayak launch site (2017) partnership with Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper (2018) • “Living Shoreline” – 500 linear feet of Ellicott Creek shoreline has been reconstructed by Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper (2017) Recent “Living Shoreline” project V2-98 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 CURRENT ISSUES AND PROBLEMS • The park is showing deterioration in its older, historic stone structures. • There is a lack of directional signage to the park, and within the park. The park occupies four distinct areas: the area between Ellicott Creek Road and Ellicott Creek, the ‘main’ part of the park between Ellicott Creek and Creekside Drive, the Creekside area, and Ellicott Island. • Better linkages could be made between four park areas. • There is a lack of interpretive signage highlighting the wonderful park structures and natural features. • Currently, most of the open space in the park is mowed, including areas that are beyond the recreational use areas. • There is an apparent underutilization of some of the park facilities. WPA Comfort Station #1 • There are numerous outdated play structures that do not meet current safety or accessibility codes. • Many older trees are displaying health issues. • Many dead trees within the park including Silver Maples and Ash. • Nearly all shelters off of Creekside Drive are showing deterioration and need repairs. • Heavy usage of the Bark Park on Ellicott Island has caused erosion and maintenance issues. WPA era Casino WPA Creekside Stand Poor shoreline conditions at Ellicott Island Bark Park VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-99 V2-100 V2-101 V2-102 V2-103 2.4 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK FINAL PLAN MASTER PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS Historic Structures/WPA/Other Structures: • (C: 4.0-9.0, P: 1.0-10.0) Preserve, repair, and enhance Key - (Project Type: Project Number) park Heritage Areas and structures; i.e. the Casino, WPA A - Action Item: Completed at low to no cost by Parks Staff era shelters and comfort stations, boathouse ruins and P - Assistance or completion of project by potential pump shelters. partner/user group ʊ Restore old stone picnic shelters and structures C - Capital project before building new picnic shelters and structures. (Consider the heritage “value” of these old park features for future tourism and visitor appreciation). ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: PBN/In-House Original drawing - WPA Octagon Shelter Present day Octagon Shelter pictured below. V2-104 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 • (C: 3.0) Prevent further deterioration of the Casino - LQFOXGLQJPLQRUURRIUHSDLUVJXWWHUUHSODFHPHQWVRIÀW repair, exterior doors, window glass repair, window sill repair. ʊ Potentially enhance and restore the Casino into a multi-purpose facility. Include Heritage Parks Visitor Information area /Concession building; ʊ Building can be a great potential source for revenue by hosting events/parties, and seasonal activities. ʊ Repair and enhance deck/overlook behind Casino. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: PBN/In-House • (C: 15.0) Consider enhancements to the Friendship Center on Creekside Road; ʊ Its proximity to the Creek makes it an ideal location to be a signature park facility; ʊ Enhancements could include introducing stone work with ‘earth-tone’ façade treatments to ¶ÀW·EHWWHULQWRWKHDSSHDORIWKH&RXQW\3DUNV structures and facilities. ʊ Improve area behind building; Clear overgrown vegetation to enhance and create views, and WPA era Casino provide possible overlook with seating areas. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: Greenway funding/In-House Murals at the WPA Boathouse Ruins VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-105 2.4 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK FINAL PLAN • (P: 11.0) Restore old gazebo overlook, stone steps, and gardens on north portion of Ellicott Island. Potentially fence off this area as a scenic pedestrian only area. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: PBN/In-House • Potential partnership with neighborhood business to provide snacks/drinks at Creekside Stand, or concession stand on Ellicott Island. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: Private Businesses • (A: 1.0) Consider park for eligibility on the National Register of Historic Places. (2003 Master Plan) ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House Gazebo shelter on the northern part of Ellicott Island WPA Shelter on Ellicott Island V2-106 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 Maintenance/Safety: • (A: 2.0-3.3) Reduce lawn mowing to provide more natural setting in non-recreational use areas, and help to shift park maintenance towards restoring older park structures. (2003 Master Plan) ʊ Establish select zones of ‘no-mow’ naturalized areas where excess lawn is being mowed, especially along the Ellicott Creek shoreline. There are large areas of mowed lawn which have no active recreation; Areas which abut wooded areas can transition into no-mow areas with SRWHQWLDOPHDGRZVDQGZLOGÁRZHUV ʊ Include signage like “Regeneration Area”, or “No- Mow Zone” to engage park users to learn about the landscape management technique. Include SRWHQWLDOEHQHÀWVRIWKHSUDFWLFHEHLQJXVHGVXFK as: Increasing habitat for insects and wildlife; improved health to adjacent Creeks like Ellicott and Tonawanda Creek; Promoting sustainable ODQGVFDSHV ,PSURYLQJZDWHUTXDOLW\E\ÀOWHULQJ pollutants such as fertilizers and pesticides that would have otherwise entered the water; Slowing stormwater runoff; Encouraging native plant growth; Providing an environment for observation; etc. ɵ Priority: High Almost the entire park is mowed ɵ Partner: In-House VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-107 2.4 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK FINAL PLAN • (P: 14.0) Coordinate with Friends of Ellicott Island Bark Park to maintain and upgrade amenities on Ellicott Island. Park is heavily used and needs to be monitored to provide a safe and sustainable environment. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: Friends of Ellicott Island Bark Park/In-House • Improve ADA access throughout the park wherever is reasonable and feasible. (2003 Master Plan) ʊ New renovations can present opportunities to address standards in ADA accessibility. These FDQLQFOXGHIRUH[DPSOHGHVLJQLQJVSRUWVÀHOGV courts for greater accessibility and seating, improved accessibility/updated surfaces to children play areas, and potential paving of new trails for people with mixed abilities. Existing trails on Ellicott Island ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House • (P: 15.0) Improve pedestrian safety and visibility along main road(s), particularly the trail crossing at Creekside Drive; possible reduction in speed. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: NYSDOT/Greenway funding • (C: 11.0-12.0) Restore or reconstruct the various pedestrian bridges that connect to the community. These important linkages tie the park to its neighborhood users. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: Consultant/Greenway funding Comfort station and former concession stand on Ellicott Island Shoreline conditions need to be addressed on Ellicott Island Bark Park V2-108 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 • (A: 12.0) Restone or pave parking lot near tennis courts. Repair pot holes leading to parking area. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House • (C: 14.0) Improve safety and functionality of parking ORW RIIPDLQURDGQHDUVRFFHUÀHOGV reduce size of the lot, provide asphalt surface, striping, and accessible parking spaces. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: Contractor/Greenway funding • (C: 16.0) Improve functionality and organization of Casino parking area. ʊ Possibly reduce size of lot to increase green space. ʊ Provide possible rain gardens to capture runoff before it enters the creek and to divert it from Tennis court parking area Casino building. ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House Connectivity/Signage: • (A: 7.0-7.4) Establish minor gateways, welcome sign and rules, for the park at the following locations: ʊ Old Niagara Falls Blvd. ʊ Ellicott Creek Road, kayak launch parking. ʊ Ellicott Creek Road, pedestrian bridge near Thistle Avenue ʊ Creekside Drive ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House/Greenway funding • (A: 8.0-8.2)3URYLGHFRQVLVWHQWZD\ÀQGLQJDQG directional signage within the park: ʊ Provide directional signs to various points of interest. Casino ʊ Provide overall park maps showing park features, comfort stations and shelters. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House Casino signage VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-109 2.4 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK FINAL PLAN • (A: 9.0-9.4) Provide directional signage to the park at strategic locations: ʊ Advance signage on Niagara Falls Blvd, both north and south of the main entrance. ʊ Intersection of Creekside Drive and Niagara Falls Blvd. ʊ Intersection of Young Street and State Street (Tonawanda Rails to Trails) ʊ Twin Cities Highway at E Niagara Street exit ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: In-House • (C: 1.0-1.2) Establish more dominant gateway features for the park, including upgraded entrance signs, enhanced landscaping with seasonal interest, etc. at the following locations: ʊ Niagara Falls Blvd. ʊ Creekside Drive WPA Pump Shelter ʊ At Thistle Ave and Ellicott Creek Drive pedestrian bridge ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House/Greenway funding • (C: 2.0-2.4) Provide new interpretive signage and informational kiosks that tie the park better “into the mix” with other local cultural and historical attractions. ʊ Provide an interpretive “story-line” for the Park’s history, i.e. How and when the park was developed?; What is the history of the Erie Canal WKURXJKWKLVDUHD" :KHQZDVWKHÁRRGFRQWURO system established?; What’s the history behind WKHPLOHLVODQG":KDWZHUHVRPHVLJQLÀFDQW historic happenings in the area, or in the park?; ʊ Provide interpretive signs or markers at key historic and natural sites, such as at the site of the old boathouse, etc. ʊ History of WPA structures? ɵ Priority: Low Typical entry signage ɵ Partner: In-House/Greenway funding • Promote the recreational trail system along the Erie Canal / Tonawanda Creek, including new interpretive VLJQDJHDQGZD\ÀQGLQJVLJQDJH ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House/Greenway funding Ellicott Creek Trailway V2-110 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 Recreation: • Continue to promote winter activities within the park. • (A: 6.1) Continue to improve and maintain playground ɵ Priority: Low structures throughout park. ɵ Partner: In-House ʊ 3URYLGHRUUHSOHQLVKÀEHUIDOOVXUIDFHVDW playgrounds annually. • (A: 6.2) Remove playground equipment that is not ʊ Replace swings/play equipment as needed due to compliant with current regulations, with the exception of wear and tear. the wheel barrow or other “legacy” pieces of equipment ɵ Priority: High ɵ Priority: Low ɵ Partner: In-House ɵ Partner: In-House • (P: 16.0) Work with Niagara Region Disc Golf (NRDG) • (A: 5.0),PSURYHÀVKLQJDFFHVVDQGRSSRUWXQLWLHVWRWKH to repair and restore degraded areas around Disc Golf edge of the canal and creek (s). This also includes the Holes. LQQHUSRQGDUHDZLWKLQWKH(OOLFRWW&UHHNÁRRGZD\]RQH ʊ Explore the possibility of updating hole locations, ɵ Priority: Low such that they can be easily pulled up from their ɵ Partner: In-House location and moved to a different nearby area. (Like on a typical golf course) ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: Niagara Region Disc Golf • (P: 17.0) Coordinate with Visit Buffalo Niagara to promote and improve recreational opportunities at Ellicott Creek Park. Ellicott has diverse recreational activities including Cricket and Pickleball. Continue to promote these unique recreational attractions. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: Visit Buffalo Niagara • (C: 17.0) Provide possible trail/path on south side of Ellicott Creek. ʊ Remove invasive species and design safety buffers on new trail from road. ʊ Provide possible overlook and areas with benches to look out at the creek; ʊ Path can tie into pedestrian bridge at Thistle Ave. ɵ Priority: Low Disc Golf is causing damage to the landscape in many cases ɵ Partner: Greenway funding/In-House Sled hill at the park VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-111 2.4 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK FINAL PLAN • (P: 18.0) Remove any remaining existing ball diamond • (P: 12.0) Stabilize the slopes on Ellicott Island; several backstops or repurpose ball diamonds. Coordinate with areas due to high usage by dogs accessing the water are Visit Buffalo Niagara and usergroups/stakeholders to losing vegetation and thus exposing the soil resulting in maintain diamonds if there is interest in the use of these the slopes eroding into the creek. amenities. ʊ Continue coordination with Friends of Ellicott ɵ Priority: Low Island Dog Park to identify problematic areas and ɵ Partner: Visit Buffalo Niagara/Community engage consultants to implement methods of groups stabilization and protection of critical areas. ʊ It is recommended to undertake a large scale Environment: shoreline restoration project. Provide alternative • (A: 4.1-4.3) Improve the tree health of the park, in access points to reduce erosion and the particular within maintained areas. recurrence of future problems while mitigation ʊ Remove dead, dying or diseased trees. efforts take place. ʊ Prune deadwood from trees. ɵ Priority: High ʊ Routinely monitor the tree population for ɵ Partner: Friends of Ellicott Island Dog Park indications of pest infestations. ʊ Provide new tree plantings throughout the park, • (P: 19.0) Encourage and emphasize natural features particularly along the roadway edges. and opportunities to connect with park ecology. ʊ Develop a multi-pronged approach to tree ʊ Prioritize protection and enhancement of planting strategy including contracted work, in- sensitive ecological areas; house staff and volunteer group plantings. ʊ Propose appropriate additional native plantings ʊ Develop annual tree planting program to restore throughout the park; tree canopy and improve natural image of the ʊ 3ULRULWL]HSODQWLQJVIRUELUGDQGEXWWHUÁ\KDELWDWV park. ʊ Designate potential native plant gardens to ʊ Apply for funding from NYSDEC for example for promote educational and interpretive elements purchase of trees and materials and for the tree while increasing habitats for insect/bird habitats; inventory. ʊ The County should encourage the development ɵ Priority: High of outdoor classrooms through partnerships ɵ Partner: WNY PRISM/ECSWD/Forestry with local schools. Outdoor classrooms can be living laboratories for local children to immerse themselves in nature and our local ecosystem. ɵ Priority: High ɵ Partner: NYSDEC/Cornell Cooperative Extension/ECSWD/In-House Erosion off the southern tip of the island V2-112 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 • (P: 20.0) Management and monitoring of invasive • Improve overall shoreline accessibility, amenities, and species is imperative to the health of the park. features. Although the park is heavily used, most of the ʊ Address and remove threatening invasive species. park’s activity is not waterfront related. Ideas would ɵ Priority: High include: ɵ Partner: WNY Prism/ECSWD ʊ ,PSURYLQJÀVKLQJDFFHVVE\SURYLGLQJDFFHVV points to the water’s edge. Selective vegetation • (P: 12.0) Improve the health of Ellicott Creek and SUXQLQJRUUHPRYDODQGFUHDWLRQRIÀVKLQJ Tonawanda Creek. Work with NYSDEC, Buffalo ‘platforms’ which may not need to be more than Waterkeeper, Soil and Water District and other local a compacted stone area to prevent erosion of the stakeholder groups. shoreline. ʊ Focus projects should include stream bank ʊ Enhancing areas for viewing the creeks and canal stabilization and erosion control, habitat through selective vegetation pruning or removal. conservation and restoration, stormwater ʊ Promote the heritage and recreational management, and contaminant reduction. relationship between the park and the Erie Canal ʊ Continue coordination with Buffalo Niagara through visual connections and overlooks, as well Waterkeeper on “expanding” Living Shoreline as a series of interpretive signs and historical along Ellicott Creek, along with additional site markers. VSHFLÀFSURMHFWVDVQHHGHG ʊ Ellicott Creek Park needs to maximize nearly ʊ Continued improvements to the ecological status 17,500 feet of shoreline. Approximately 10,000 of the creek and naturalization of the surrounding feet along Tonawanda Creek, a mile of which is wooded areas can contribute to educational along the navigable channel of the Erie Barge nature programs and trail/water recreation. Canal, and 7,500 feet along Ellicott Creek. ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Priority: Medium ɵ Partner: Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper, ɵ Partner: Greenway funding/In-House NYSDEC VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-113 2.4 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK FINAL PLAN ELLICOTT CREEK PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Establish “Natural Regeneration Areas” Establish “Natural Regeneration Areas” 1-2 A2.0to reduce overall maintenance and LGHQWLÀHGRQWKH0DVWHU3ODQ High In-House provide wildlife habitat Years Establish “Low Mow Zones” to reduce (VWDEOLVK´/RZ0RZ=RQHVµLGHQWLÀHGRQ overall maintenance and provide wildlife the Master Plan 1-2 A3.1 High In-House habitat Years Establish “Low Mow Zones” to reduce Provide necessary signage along the overall maintenance and provide wildlife “Low Mow Zones” to inform the public habitat the reasons behind the practice and 1-2 In-House, A3.3 High also to identify the areas to park Years Highway personnel. Increase tree health and tree canopy Prune and/or remove trees if throughout the park. The overall age determined to present an increased risk of the tree population at the Park is to park patrons and employees. considered to be mature, with limited In-House, A4.1young trees to renew the resource over High Ongoing time. Develop a multi-pronged tree Forestry planting strategy including contracted work, in-house staff and volunteer group plantings Increase tree health and tree canopy Prune trees away from the falling throughout the park. The overall age structures to prevent additional of the tree population at the Park is damage: WPA Era Comfort Station #1, considered to be mature, with limited WPA Era Comfort Station #3, WPA Era young trees to renew the resource over Creekside Station 1-2 In-House, A4.3 High time. Develop a multi-pronged tree Years Forestry planting strategy including contracted work, in-house staff and volunteer group plantings Continue to improve playground safety 3URYLGHRUUHSOHQLVKHQJLQHHUHGÀEHUIDOO A6.1 surfaces at playgrounds annually. High Ongoing P.O.B. Promote alternative transportation to Coordinate with the Town of Tonawanda, the park. Parks & Trails NY, NYS Canal Corporation and NYSPRHP to promote A10.0 Erie Canalway Trail project from City of High Ongoing NA Tonawanda line along Creekside Dr to the park 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 V2-114 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Prevent further deterioration of the Engage a consultant to develop plans Casino - including minor roof repairs, and contractor to perform repairs and JXWWHUUHSODFHPHQWVRIÀWUHSDLU storm water mitigation exterior doors, window glass repair, 3-5 C3.0 High $22,000 window sill repair. Design and construct Years improvements to manage storm water on the north side of the structure. Shelter #33 - Potential structural issues Engage a consultant to review the structure and determine a course of 1-2 C4.8 High $10,000 action. Years Prevent further deterioration of Engage contractor to perform repairs WPA Era Creekside Station. Replace missing section of roof on south side of 1-2 C5.0concession stand including replacement High $25,000 Years of deteriorated footing and missing column Prevent further deterioration of WPA Era Engage contractor to perform repairs 3-5 C6.0Comfort Station #1. Repair roof High $7,500 Years Prevent further deterioration of WPA Era Engage contractor to perform repairs Comfort Station #3. Repair roof 3-5 C7.0 High $7,500 Years Prevent further deterioration of the Engage contractor to perform repairs 3-5 C10.0following picnic shelters: High X Years Shelter #14 - Potential structural issues Engage a consultant to review the 1-2 C 10.1 structure and determine a course of High $10,000 action. Years Stabilize the slopes on Ellicott Island. Coordinate with bark park users to Several areas along the shoreline of determine the methods, i.e. geotextile Ellicott Island are heavily used by dogs fabrics or terracing, to be implemented to access the water, the vegetation to stabilize the slopes considering P 12.0 in these areas has been destroyed the primary users are dogs. Restrict High Ongoing $35,000 exposing the soil resulting in the slopes access on a rotational basis to eroded eroding into the creek. areas through fencing allowing areas to regenerate. VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-115 2.4 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK FINAL PLAN ELLICOTT CREEK PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Maintain and upgrade amenities on Coordinate with Bark park group to close Ellicott Island. Park is heavily used and park when necessary to perform repairs P14.0needs to be monitored to provide a safe and improvements to structures, trails, High Ongoing Partner and sustainable environment. and other features. Work with Niagara Region Disc Golf Coordinate with Niagara Region Disc (NRDG) to repair and restore degraded Golf areas around Disc Golf Holes. Explore 1-2 P16.0the possibility of updating hole High $10,500 locations, such that they can be easily Years pulled up from their location and moved to a different nearby area. Prioritize protection and enhancement Designate potential native pollinator of sensitive ecological areas; Propose plant gardens to promote educational P19.0appropriate additional native plantings and interpretive elements while High Ongoing Partner throughout the park; increasing habitats for insect/bird habitats. Management and monitoring of Coordinate with WNY Prism, ECSWD, invasive species is imperative to the and others. health of the park. Address and remove P 20.0 threatening invasive species. High Ongoing Partner Increase tree health and tree canopy Develop an annual tree planting throughout the park. The overall age program. of the tree population at the Park is A4.2considered to be mature, with limited Medium Ongoing P.O.B. young trees to renew the resource over time. Establish Minor Gateways, welcome sign Coordination between Parks & Highways 6-10 A7.0and rules, for the park at the following to develop and produce the sign panels Medium In-House locations: Years Old Niagara Falls Blvd Coordination between Parks & Highways 6-10 A7.1 to develop and produce the sign panels Medium In-House Years Ellicott Creek Road, kayak launch Coordination between Parks & Highways 6-10 A7.2parking to develop and produce the sign panels Medium In-House Years 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 V2-116 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Ellicott Creek Road, pedestrian bridge Coordination between Parks & Highways 6-10 A7.3near Thistle Ave to develop and produce the sign panels Medium In-House Years Creekside Dr Coordination between Parks & Highways 6-10 A7.4 to develop and produce the sign panels Medium In-House Years 3URYLGHFRQVLVWHQWZD\ÀQGLQJDQG Coordination between Parks & Highways 3-5 A8.0directional signage within the park: to develop and produce the sign panels Medium In-House Years Provide directional signs to various Coordination between Parks & Highways 3-5 A8.1points of interest. to develop and produce directional sign Medium In-House panels Years Provide overall park maps showing park Coordination between Parks & Highways features, comfort stations and shelters to develop and produce park maps 3-5 A8.2 Medium In-House Years Provide directional signage to the park Coordination between Parks & Highways at strategic locations: to develop and produce the sign panels, and coordinate with the road jurisdiction 6-10 A9.0 Medium In-House regarding placement of the signs. Years Advance signage on Niagara Falls Coordination between Parks & Highways Blvd, both north and south of the main to develop and produce the sign panels, entrance and coordinate with the road jurisdiction 6-10 A9.1 Medium In-House regarding placement of the signs. Years Intersection of Creekside Dr and Coordination between Parks & Highways Niagara Falls Blvd to develop and produce the sign panels, and coordinate with the road jurisdiction 6-10 A9.2 Medium In-House regarding placement of the signs. Years Intersection of Young St and State St Coordination between Parks & Highways (Tonawanda Rails to Trails) to develop and produce the sign panels, and coordinate with the road jurisdiction 6-10 A9.3 Medium In-House regarding placement of the signs. Years Twin Cities Highway at E Niagara St exit Coordination between Parks & Highways to develop and produce the sign panels, 6-10 A9.4 and coordinate with the road jurisdiction Medium In-House regarding placement of the signs. Years VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-117 2.4 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK FINAL PLAN ELLICOTT CREEK PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Ensure that shelters, comfort stations Coordination between Parks and DQGEXLOGLQJVDUHLGHQWLÀDEOH Highways to develop and produce the 3-5 A11.0 Medium In-House sign panels. Years Restone or pave parking lot near tennis Coordinate with Parks and DPW 3-5 A 12.0 courts. Repair pot holes leading to Medium In-House parking area. Years Provide interpretive signage in the park: Coordinate with historical society to C2.0 develop copy and obtain images for the Medium Ongoing X Prevent further deterioration of the Engage contractor to perform repairs 3-5 C4.0following WPA Era picnic shelters Medium X Years Shelter #4 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs 3-5 C4.1 Medium $10,000 Years Shelter #35 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs 3-5 C4.10 Medium $10,000 Years Shelter #7 - Replace concrete slab Engage contractor to perform repairs 3-5 C4.2 Medium $10,000 Years Shelter #8 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs 3-5 C4.3 Medium $10,000 Years Shelter #9 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs 3-5 C4.4 Medium $10,000 Years Shelter #26 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs 3-5 C4.5 Medium $10,000 Years Shelter #28 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs 3-5 C4.6 Medium $10,000 Years Shelter #31 - Replace concrete slab Engage contractor to perform repairs 3-5 C4.7 Medium $6,600 Years Shelter #34 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs 3-5 C4.9 Medium $15,000 Years Prevent Further deterioration of WPA Engage contractor to perform repairs Era Pump Shelter #1 (near Niagara Falls C8.0Blvd). Repair or replace roof. Medium Ongoing $7,500 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 V2-118 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Prevent Further deterioration of WPA Era Engage contractor to perform repairs Pump Shelter #2 (on island). Repair or replace roof. C9.0 Medium Ongoing $7,500 Shelter #25 - Replace roof Engage contractor to perform repairs 3-5 C10.2 Medium $10,000 Years Improve safety on pedestrian bridge Engage a consultant to develop plans RYHU(OOLFRWW&UHHNQHDUÁXPHDUHD and contractor to perform repairs 3-5 C 12.0 Replace bridge decking, replace railing Medium $22,000 system, reconstruct bridge approaches Years to comply with ADA Improve safety and functionality of Engage a consult to develop plans Parking Lot 12, reduce size of lot, and a contractor to construct the 6-10 C14.0provide asphalt surface, striping, improvements Medium $33,000 Years accessible parking spaces Prevent further deterioration of the Refer to partnership opportunity with 6-10 P1.0following WPA Era picnic shelters: PBN Medium X Years Shelter #6 - Replace missing stones, Refer to partnership opportunity with reset loose stones, clean and repoint PBN 6-10 P1.1 Medium $20,000 mortar Years Shelter #7 – Replace missing stones, Refer to partnership opportunity with reset loose stones, clean and repoint PBN 6-10 P1.2 Medium $15,000 mortar Years Prevent further deterioration of WPA Refer to partnership opportunity with Era Creekside Station. Repair loose and PBN 6-10 P2.0 Medium $15,000 missing stones, repoint stonework. Years Prevent further deterioration of WPA Refer to partnership opportunity with Era Comfort Station #1. Remove vines PBN 6-10 P3.0 Medium $15,000 from stones and siding, repoint mortar, Years replace rotting wood timbers Prevent further deterioration of WPA Refer to partnership opportunity with Era Comfort Station #3. Repoint mortar, PBN 6-10 P4.0 Medium $15,000 reconstruction fountain on front side of Years structure VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-119 2.4 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK FINAL PLAN ELLICOTT CREEK PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Prevent further deterioration of WPA Refer to partnership opportunity with Era Comfort Station #5. Repoint mortar, PBN 6-10 P5.0 Medium $15,000 replace rotting wood timbers Years Expand “Living Shoreline” along Ellicott Continue coordination with Buffalo Creek Niagara Waterkeeper to develop P13.0 additional projects along the banks of Medium Ongoing $75,000 Ellicott Creek. Improve pedestrian safety and visibility Coordinate with the Town of Tonawanda along main road(s), particularly the trail and NYSDOT 3-5 P15.0crossing at Creekside Drive; possible Medium $5,000 Years reduction in speed. Promote and enhance recreational Coordinate with Visit Buffalo Niagara P17.0opportunities Medium Ongoing Partner Consider park for eligibility on the Coordinate with the State Historic National Register of Historic Places 3UHVHUYDWLRQ2IÀFHUDVVLJQHGWR(ULH County to complete the required A1.0 Low Ongoing In-House nomination forms and submit to a State review board. Establish “Low Mow Zones” to reduce Begin an educational program, through overall maintenance and provide wildlife the use of the County’s website, to 3-5 A3.2habitat the general public which provides Low In-House information regarding the “Low Mow Years Zone” program Improve safety and access for anglers Utilize parks staff to perform along Tonawanda Creek and Ellicott improvements 6-10 A5.0Creek by providing stable areas of either Low In-House crushed stone or asphalt millings along Years the shoreline. Improve playground safety Remove playground equipment that is not compliant with current regulations, A6.2 with the exception of the wheel barrow Low Ongoing In-House or other “legacy” pieces of equipment Establish Enhanced Gateways for the Engage a consultant to develop sign park at the following locations: types including copy, structure and 6-10 C1.0 Low X landscape typology for each location. Years 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 V2-120 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Niagara Falls Boulevard Engage a consultant to develop sign types including copy, structure and 6-10 C1.1 landscape typology for each location. Low $17,800 Years Creekside Drive Engage a consultant to develop sign types including copy, structure and 6-10 C1.2 landscape typology for each location. Low $17,800 Years Casino on Ellicott Creek Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and produce sign 6-10 C2.1 panels, installation In-House Low $3,500 Years Boathouse on Ellicott Island Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and produce sign 6-10 C2.2 Low $3,500 panels, installation In-House Years Creation of Ellicott Island as part of Erie Engage a consultant to develop high Canal resolution graphics and produce sign 6-10 C2.3 Low $3,500 panels, installation In-House Years History of WPA structures Engage a consultant to develop high resolution graphics and produce sign 6-10 C2.4 Low $3,500 panels, installation In-House Years Improve safety on pedestrian bridge Engage a consultant to determine if over Ellicott Creek near Thistle Ave. H[LVWLQJUDLOLQJVFDQEHPRGLÀHGWREH brought into compliance, or if a new 6-10 C11.0 Low $17,500 railing system is required. Engage Years contractor to perform repairs Reconstruct Grill #2 (near Shelter #26) Engage contractor to perform repairs 6-10 C13.0 Low $3,500 Years Consider enhancements to the Engage a consult to develop plans Friendship Center on Creekside and a contractor to construct the Road; Enhancements could include improvements introducing stone work with ‘earth-tone’ 6-10 C15.0 Low $20,000 IDoDGHWUHDWPHQWVWR¶ÀW·EHWWHULQWRWKH Years appeal of the County Parks structures and facilities. VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-121 2.4 ELLICOTT CREEK PARK FINAL PLAN ELLICOTT CREEK PARK: ACTION ITEMS Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Improve functionality and organization Engage a consult to develop plans of Casino parking area. Possibly reduce and a contractor to construct the size of lot to increase green space. improvements 6-10 C16.0Provide possible rain gardens to capture Low $22,500 runoff before it enters the creek and to Years divert it from Casino building. Provide possible trail/path on south Engage a consult to develop plans side of Ellicott Creek. Provide possible and a contractor to construct the overlook and areas with benches to improvements 6-10 C17.0 Low $15,000 look out at the creek; Path can tie into Years pedestrian bridge at Thistle Ave. Shelter #8 – Reset loose stones, clean Refer to partnership opportunity with 6-10 P1.3and repoint mortar PBN Low $32,000 Years Shelter #9 – Reset loose stones, clean Refer to partnership opportunity with 6-10 P1.4and repoint mortar PBN Low $9,000 Years Shelter #28 - Reset loose stones, clean Refer to partnership opportunity with 6-10 P1.5and repoint mortar PBN Low $15,000 Years Shelter #31 –Reset loose stones, clean Refer to partnership opportunity with and repoint mortar PBN 6-10 P1.6 Low $26,000 Years Prevent further deterioration of WPA Refer to partnership opportunity with Era grill #1 (near Niagara Falls Blvd). PBN Replace missing stones, repair loose 6-10 P6.0 Low $7,000 stones, clean and repoint mortar Years Prevent further deterioration of WPA Era Refer to partnership opportunity with Pump Shelter #1 (near Niagara Falls PBN 6-10 P7.0 Low $9,000 Blvd). Repair loose stones, clean and Years repoint mortar Prevent Further deterioration of WPA Refer to partnership opportunity with Era Pump Shelter #2 (on island).Repair PBN 6-10 P8.0 Low $15,000 loose stones, clean and repoint mortar Years 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 V2-122 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 Project Project Estimated Recommendation Implementation Strategies Priority Term Type # Cost Prevent further deterioration of WPA Refer to partnership opportunity with Era drinking fountain near Thistle Ave PBN bridge. Replace missing stones, repair 6-10 P9.0 Low $3,500 loose stones, clean and repoint mortar Years Prevent further deterioration of WPA Refer to partnership opportunity with Era drinking fountain near shelter #25. PBN 6-10 P10.0Replace missing stones, repair loose Low $3,500 Years stones, clean and repoint mortar Prevent further deterioration of WPA Refer to partnership opportunity with Era gazebo shelter on northern side PBN 6-10 P11.0of Ellicott Island. Repair loose stones, Low $35,000 clean and repoint mortar, and repair Years roof. Remove existing ball diamond Coordinate with Visit Buffalo Niagara backstops or repurpose ball diamonds. 3-5 P18.0 Low P.O.B. Years VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-123 V2-124 V2-125 THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK V2-126 2.5 EMERY PARK FINAL PLAN EMERY PARK DESCRIPTION (PHU\3DUNLVRQHRIWKHROGHVWÀ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·V LPSUHVVLYH VORSLQJ WRSRJUDSK\ DQG UXJJHG QDWXUDO FKDUDFWHU 7KLV WULEXWDU\ IORZV LQWR &D]HQRYLD &UHHN ZKLFK FXWVWKURXJKWKHQRUWKHDVWHUQFRUQHURIWKHSDUNSURSHUW\7KH QRUWKHDVW VHFWLRQ LV DQ XQGHYHORSHG IRUHVWHG DUHD D QDWXUDO EXIIHU DJDLQVW WKH DFRXVWLFDO DQG YLVXDO SUREOHPV DVVRFLDWHG ZLWK WKH DGMDFHQW 5RXWH D IRXUODQH H[SUHVVZD\ 7KH5LFKDUGVRQ&RWWDJHDZHOONQRZQSLFQLFVLWHLVORFDWHGRQ WKHRSSRVLWHVLGHRI&D]HQRYLD&UHHNDQGLVDFFHVVHGVHSDUDWHO\ RIIRIWKH5RXWH1<VSOLW7KHQDWXUDOFKDUDFWHURI(PHU\ 3DUNLVVRPHRIWKH&RXQW\6\VWHP·VPRVWEHDXWLIXODQGÀQHVW Park Location Map: Emery Park is located in the Town of Aurora off of Emery Road PARK SPECIFIC PRIORITIES • Preserve and enhance Heritage areas and special park features, including; Repoint/clean stonework where needed, replace missing stones, replace or repair roofs, make improvements WRFRQFUHWHDVSKDOWÁRRUVHWFWRDOOKLVWRULF VWUXFWXUHVDQGIDFLOLWLHVVSHFLÀFDOO\PDQ\VKHOWHUV RQWKHVRXWKHUQVLGHRIWKHSDUN • Reduce lawn mowing to provide more natural VHWWLQJLQQRQXVHOLWWOHWUDIÀFNHGDUHDVDQGKHOS to shift park maintenance towards restoring older SDUNVWUXFWXUHV • Potential relocation of Disc golf holes to prevent continuous damage to natural areas and wildlife IURPH[FHVVLYHIRRWWUDIÀF WPA era historic pump shelter VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-127 2.5 EMERY PARK FINAL PLAN PARK AND AREA HISTORY 7KH(PHU\,QQDQGEDUQVWUXFWXUHVZHUHSDUWRIWKHRULJLQDO -RVLDK (PHU\ )DUPVWHDG 7KH (PHU\ IDPLO\ OLYHG RQ DQG ZRUNHG RQ WKLV ODQG IRU RYHU RQH KXQGUHG \HDUV VLQFH WKH HDUO\·V,Q WKH3DUNV&RPPLVVLRQRI(ULH&RXQW\ SXUFKDVHG WKH ODQG IURP +HOHQ % (PHU\ IRUPLQJ (PHU\ 3DUN0DQ\RIWKHRULJLQDOSDUNVWUXFWXUHVDQGIHDWXUHVVWLOO UHPDLQIURPWKHHDUO\GHYHORSPHQW\HDUVRIWKHODWH·VDQG HDUO\·VZKHQ:3$FUHZVZRUNHGWRHVWDEOLVKWKLVXQLTXH SDUN7KHKLVWRULF(PHU\KRPHZDVFRQYHUWHGWRDPXVHXP DQGUHVWDXUDQWDIWHU DQGKDVXQIRUWXQDWHO\IHOOLQWR GLVUHSDLUDQGZDVWDNHQGRZQ'HVSLWHWKLV(PHU\3DUNKDV HYROYHGLQWRD DFUHSDUNRIXQPDWFKHGQDWXUDOEHDXW\ LOCAL CONTEXT (PHU\3DUNLVORFDWHGLQWKH7RZQRI$XURUDDGMDFHQWWRWKH KDPOHWRI6RXWK:DOHV,WLVORFDWHGDSSUR[LPDWHO\PLOHV VRXWK RI 'RZQWRZQ %XIIDOR DQG LV MXVW D IHZ PLOHV VRXWK RI WKH 9LOODJH RI (DVW $XURUD 7KH DUHD VXUURXQGLQJ (PHU\ 3DUN LV ODUJHO\ UXUDO LQ FKDUDFWHU ZLWK RQO\ D VFDWWHULQJ RI UHVLGHQFHV WKURXJKRXW WKH FRXQWU\VLGH ZLWK WKH H[FHSWLRQ Local context map 1940’s master plan V2-128 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 Historic photo near Rock Garden RI WKH WKLFNO\ VHWWOHG KDPOHW RI 6RXWK :DOHV 2QH RI WKH DUHD·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·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·V QDWXUDO VSDFHV 7KHUHDUHVLJQLÀFDQWDUHDVRIHURVLRQDQGVRLOFRPSDFWLRQ LQWKHQRUWKIRUHVWVHFWLRQDVVRFLDWHGZLWKGLVFJROIKROHV RECENT PARKS DEPARTMENT PROJECTS / IMPROVEMENTS 7KH &DSLWDO ,PSURYHPHQWV ZLWKLQ (PHU\ 3DUN WRWDOHG 5HFHQW SURMHFWV LQFOXGHG • 6WRKUHU·V/RGJH²5HSODFHGURRIZLQGRZVDQGGRRUV SDLQWLQJDQGDVVRFLDWHGFDUSHQWU\ Pump shelter with hole in the roof • 0DLQWHQDQFH%XLOGLQJV²5HSODFHGWZRURRIV LQFOXGLQJ DEDWHPHQW DQGZLQGRZVRQEXLOGLQJ • *HQHUDOUHSDLULPSURYHPHQWVWRSDUNLQJORWVDQG URDGZD\V • 6KHOWHU²:3$(UD6WRQH6WUXFWXUHUHQRYDWHG XWLOL]LQJH[LVWLQJVWRQHHQGVLQFOXGLQJQHZURRIDQG FRQFUHWHÁRRU • %XLOGLQJGHPROLWLRQ²VWUXFWXUHVUHPRYHG • 'HPROLVKHGDQGUHPRYHG(PHU\,QQ • 6KHOWHUV²&RPSOHWHURRIWHDURIIVFUHDWLRQRIVXLWDEOH SDUNLQJDUHDVPDVRQU\FRQFUHWHZRUNQHZWUXVV·VHWF • 5LFKDUGVRQ&RWWDJHDQG6KHOWHU²1HZURRIVH[WHQVLYH IRXQGDWLRQUHSDLUVRQFRWWDJHFRPSOHWHUHPRGHOLQVLGH DQGRXWQHZEODFNWRSURDGDQGSDUNLQJDUHDLQVWDOOHG • -DSDQHVH*DUGHQ6KHOWHUUHSXUSRVHGLQWRSHUJROD • ,PSURYHPHQWVWR6WRUDJH%XLOGLQJ • 1HZJXDUGUDLOVLQVWDOOHGQHDU6NL/RGJH • ,QVWDOOLQJPDJLFFDUSHWDW(PHU\3DUNVNLOLIW Old set of swings in the woods Emery Ski Lodge WPA Pump Shelter V2-130 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 CURRENT ISSUES AND PROBLEMS • 7KHSDUNLVVKRZLQJGHWHULRUDWLRQLQLWVROGHUKLVWRULF VWRQHVWUXFWXUHV • 7KHUHLVDODFNRIGLUHFWLRQDODQGLQWHUSUHWLYHVLJQDJH KLJKOLJKWLQJWKHZRQGHUIXOSDUNVWUXFWXUHVDQGQDWXUDO IHDWXUHV • &XUUHQWO\PRVWRIWKHRSHQVSDFHLQWKHSDUNLVPRZHG LQFOXGLQJDUHDVWKDWDUHEH\RQGWKHUHFUHDWLRQDOXVH DUHDV • %HWWHUOLQNDJHVVKRXOGEHPDGHZLWKLQWKHSDUNEHWZHHQ WKHQRUWKHUQDQGVRXWKHUQVHFWLRQVRIWKHSDUNRQHLWKHU VLGHRI(PHU\5RDG • 7KHUHLVDQDSSDUHQWXQGHUXWLOL]DWLRQRIVRPHRIWKHSDUN IDFLOLWLHV • 7KHUHDUHQXPHURXVRXWGDWHGSOD\VWUXFWXUHVWKDWGRQRW PHHWFXUUHQWVDIHW\RUDFFHVVLELOLW\FRGHV • 0DQ\VKHOWHUVRQVRXWKVLGHRIWKHSDUNDUHVHHLQJ GHWHULRUDWLRQDQGYDQGDOLVP • (URVLRQFRQFHUQVDORQJFUHHNV • $OOVKHOWHUVVKRXOGEHQXPEHUHG0DQ\DUHPLVVLQJ QXPEHUV • 0DQ\'LVF*ROIKROHVDUHFDXVLQJGDPDJHDQGLVVXHVLQ QDWXUDOZRRGHGDUHDVRISDUN • /DFNRIDGGLWLRQDOUHFUHDWLRQDORSSRUWXQLWLHV • 'LIÀFXOWWRÀQGORFDWHWUDLOV /DFNRIIRUPDOWUDLOKHDGV • 7HQQLVFRXUWVDUHVKRZLQJZHDU • (PHUJLQJLQYDVLYHVSHFLHV Repurposed pergola structure Original drawing for the Garden Entrance at the Rock Garden; The same structure is photographed on the right VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-131 V2-132 V2-133 V2-134 V2-135 2.5 EMERY PARK FINAL PLAN MASTER PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS EHIRUHEXLOGLQJQHZSLFQLFVKHOWHUVDQG VWUXFWXUHV &RQVLGHUWKHKHULWDJH´YDOXHµRI Key - (Project Type: Project Number) WKHVHROGSDUNIHDWXUHVIRUIXWXUHWRXULVPDQG A - Action Item: Completed at low to no cost by Parks Staff YLVLWRUDSSUHFLDWLRQ P - Assistance or completion of project by potential ʊ 3UHVHUYHDQGHQKDQFHVWRQHVKHOWHUVDGMDFHQWWR partner/user group WHQQLVFRXUWV5HSXUSRVHDVSRWHQWLDOLQWHUSUHWLYH C - Capital project VWDWLRQVKLJKOLJKWLQJSDUNKLVWRU\DQGWKHHFRORJ\ RIWKHSDUN HistoricHi i Structures/WPA/Other S /WPA/O h Structures: S ɵ3ULRULW\ +LJK ɵ3DUWQHU 3%18%,Q+RXVH • (C: 4.0-5.0, P: 1.0-6.0) Preserve and enhance “Heritage” areas and special park features, including; • (A: 13.0) Remove shelters which are in poor condition, ʊ 2OG-DSDQHVH5RFN*DUGHQHWF or are very rarely rented out. 0DQ\RQWKHVRXWKVLGHRI ʊ 5HVWRUHKLVWRULFVWRQHVWUXFWXUHVVKHOWHUV (PHU\3DUNDUHYHU\LVRODWHGRULQGLVUHSDLU6KHOWHUVWKDW EXLOGLQJVDQGVWRQHDUFKEULGJHVWRQHJDWHZD\V DUHUHFRPPHQGHGWREHUHPRYHGLQFOXGHVKHOWHU VWHSVDQGEULGJHVROGVWRQHLQFLQHUDWRUVHWF DQG ʊ 5HVWRUHROGVWRQHSLFQLFVKHOWHUVDQGVWUXFWXUHV ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH Shelter #117: Recommend demolition Shelter #13: Recommend demolition Shelter #11 WPA round comfort station V2-136 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 • (C: 2.0-2.5) Provide interpretive signage in the park: • Develop framework/design guidelines for the future Provide an interpretive “story-line” for the Park’s construction and restoration of picnic shelters. 0DQ\ geological and post-settlement history; VKHOWHUVDUHRIGLIIHUHQWFRORUVEXLOGLQJPDWHULDOVDQG ʊ LH+RZDQGZKHQWKHUDYLQHVZHUHIRUPHG" IRUPPDNLQJIRUDFROOHFWLRQUDQGRPDUFKLWHFWXUH :KHQZDVWKHDUHDÀUVWVHWWOHG" :KDW·VWKH EXLOGLQJW\SHV6RPHGRQRWÀWLQZLWKKLVWRULF:3$ KLVWRU\EHKLQGWKH(PHU\,QQDQGWKHIDUP HVVHQFHRIWKHSDUN VWUXFWXUHV":KDWZHUHVRPHVLJQLÀFDQWKLVWRULF ʊ 'HYHORSPRUHVKHOWHUVOLNHWKHUHFHQWUHQRYDWLRQV KDSSHQLQJVLQWKHDUHDRULQWKHSDUN" :KHQ RI6KHOWHUE\PDLQWDLQLQJ:3$VWRQHZRUN ZHUHWKHROGVWRQHVWUXFWXUHVEXLOW" HWF HDUWKWRQHFRORUVDQGWLPEHUPDWHULDOV ʊ +DUULJDQ·V&LUFOH LH+RZGLGLWJHWWKHQDPH" ɵ3ULRULW\ /RZ :KRLV+DUULJDQ" +DUGWRLQWHUSUHWH[DFWO\ZKHUH ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH +DUULJDQ·V&LUFOHLVIRUDYHUDJHSDUNXVHU ʊ *HRORJ\DQGUDYLQHIRUPDWLRQ ʊ +LVWRU\RIWKH(PHU\)DPLO\ ʊ +LVWRU\RI:3$VWUXFWXUHV ɵ3ULRULW\ /RZ ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH Stohrer’s Lodge: During construction and present day facility VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-137 2.5 EMERY PARK FINAL PLAN • (A: 1.0) Consider park for eligibility on the National ODQGVFDSHV ,PSURYHVZDWHUTXDOLW\E\ÀOWHULQJ Register of Historic Places SROOXWDQWVVXFKDVIHUWLOL]HUVDQGSHVWLFLGHVWKDW ɵ3ULRULW\ /RZ ZRXOGKDYHRWKHUZLVHHQWHUHGWKHZDWHU 6ORZV ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH VWRUPZDWHUUXQRII (QFRXUDJLQJQDWLYHSODQW JURZWK 3URYLGLQJDQHQYLURQPHQWIRUREVHUYDWLRQ Maintenance/Safety: HWF • (A: 2.0-3.3) Reduce lawn mowing to provide more ɵ3ULRULW\ +LJK QDWXUDOVHWWLQJLQQRQXVHOLWWOHWUDIÀFNHGDUHDVDQG ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH help to shift park maintenance towards restoring older park structures. • (A: 5.0) Improve awareness of steep slopes, uneven ʊ 2QHVLJQLÀFDQWDUHDWREHJLQWKHQDWXUDOL]DWLRQ terrain, etc. for park patrons through signage. SURFHVVZRXOGEHZHVWRIWKH0DLQWHQDQFH ɵ3ULRULW\ +LJK IDFLOLWLHVEHKLQGWKHWHQQLVFRXUWV ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH ʊ (VWDEOLVKVHOHFW]RQHVRI¶QRPRZ·QDWXUDOL]HG DUHDVZKHUHH[FHVVODZQLVEHLQJPRZHG7KHUH • (A: 15.0) Undertake roadway repairs and repaving DUHODUJHDUHDVRIPRZHGODZQZKLFKKDYHQR throughout the park. Improve ditches and culverts DFWLYHUHFUHDWLRQ WKHVHDUHDVHVSHFLDOO\WKRVH wherever necessary. ZKLFKDEXWZRRGHGDUHDVFDQWUDQVLWLRQLQWR ʊ ,IURDGVDUHGHHPHG¶QRWQHHGHG·GXHWRVKHOWHU QRPRZDUHDVZLWKSRWHQWLDOPHDGRZVDQG UHPRYDOHWFWKH\FDQEHPDLQWDLQHGDV¶WUDLO ZLOGÁRZHUV RQO\·SDWK6RPHDUHDOUHDG\EORFNHGRIIOLNHWKLV ʊ ,QFOXGHVLJQDJHOLNH´5HJHQHUDWLRQ$UHDµRU´1R ʊ )RUDEDQGRQHGURDGZD\VUHPRYHH[LVWLQJ 0RZ=RQHµWRHQJDJHSDUNXVHUVWROHDUQDERXW EODFNWRSVXUIDFHDQGUHSODFHZLWKQDWXUDO WKHODQGVFDSHPDQDJHPHQWWHFKQLTXH,QFOXGH ODQGVFDSLQJWUHDWPHQWV2UMXVWOHWWKHP SRWHQWLDOEHQHÀWVRIWKHSUDFWLFHEHLQJXVHG LH QDWXUDOL]HRQWKHLURZQ ,QFUHDVLQJKDELWDWIRULQVHFWVDQGZLOGOLIH 6DYLQJ ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP HQHUJ\DQGUHGXFLQJ&2HPLVVLRQVE\QRWXVLQJ ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH PRZHUVDQGHTXLSPHQW 3URPRWLQJVXVWDLQDEOH Large expanse of lawn at Emery V2-138 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 • (C: 9.0-9.4) Improve and formalize key parking areas; Reduce parking lot surface and increase green space if possible. ,IGUDLQDJHFRQFHUQVH[LVWSURYLGHSRWHQWLDO UDLQJDUGHQVWRFDSWXUHVWRUPZDWHUDQGWKXVLPSURYH QHDUE\VWUHDPVDQGFUHHNV3RWHQWLDOSDUNLQJDUHDV LQFOXGH ʊ 6NL/RGJHSDUNLQJORW ʊ 6NL/LIWSDUNLQJORW ʊ 3DUNLQJDUHDDW$UERU*DUGHQ ʊ 6WRKUHU·V/RGJH/RW ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH • At all designated park trails, trail safety improvements should be made. ,QDGGLWLRQWRSURSHUVLJQDJHRI SRWHQWLDOKD]DUGVDQGXVHUGLIÀFXOWLHV 7KLVPD\LQFOXGH WUDLOVXUIDFHPDWHULDOXSJUDGHVGUDLQDJHLPSURYHPHQWV Parking near gazebo structure YHJHWDWLRQFOHDULQJUDLOLQJVDQGEDUULHUVHWF ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH • Improve ADA access throughout the park wherever is reasonable and feasible. (2003 Master Plan) ʊ 1HZUHQRYDWLRQVFDQSUHVHQWRSSRUWXQLWLHVWR DGGUHVVVWDQGDUGVLQ$'$DFFHVVLELOLW\7KHVH FDQLQFOXGHIRUH[DPSOHGHVLJQLQJVSRUWVÀHOGV FRXUWVIRUJUHDWHUDFFHVVLELOLW\DQGVHDWLQJ LPSURYHGDFFHVVLELOLW\XSGDWHGVXUIDFHVWR FKLOGUHQSOD\DUHDVDQGSRWHQWLDOSDYLQJRIQHZ WUDLOVIRUSHRSOHZLWKPL[HGDELOLWLHV ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH Drainage issues on the northern ravine trail Scenic waterfall on the north side of the park VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-139 2.5 EMERY PARK FINAL PLAN • (C: 10.0) Repair/replace guardrail west of tree roundabout. ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH'3: • (C: 12.0) Improve/repair or replace fences along Emery Road - 5HSDLURUUHSODFHHQWUDQFHJDWHV ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH • (C: 13.0) Improve safety along northerly gorge/ravine trail system, LHVHWEDFNVDQGSHUPDQHQWUDLOLQJV 3URYLGHQHZVFHQLFRYHUORRNDWIDOOV ʊ ,PSURYHDQGHQKDQFHQDWXUHWUDLOV\VWHP WKURXJKRXWWKHSDUNZLWKQHZLQWHUSUHWLYHVLJQDJH DQGQHZWUDLOFRQQHFWLRQVLQFOXGLQJSURYLGLQJ DORRSHGWUDLOQHDUWKHVNLORGJHDQGIXWXUH FRQQHFWLRQWR6RXWK:DOHV ʊ 3URYLGHQHZSDUNEHQFKHVDORQJWKHQDWXUHWUDLOV Emery Park entry LQVWUDWHJLFORFDWLRQV ɵ3ULRULW\ /RZ ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH • (C: 11.0) Enhance viewing opportunities to many of Emery Park’s scenic, historic and natural features, LQFOXGLQJWKHLPSUHVVLYHUDYLQHVDQGUHPRWHUXJJHG WHUUDLQ3URYLGHSRVVLEOHQHZ´VWUDWHJLFDOO\SODFHGµ RYHUORRNSODWIRUPVDQGYLHZLQJDUHDVWRWKHVHIHDWXUHV ZLWKDGHTXDWHPHWKRGVRISHGHVWULDQVDIHW\WRJLYHWKH SDUNPRUHH[SRVXUHWRWKHSXEOLF ʊ 3URYLGH$'$DFFHVVZKHUHYHUSRVVLEOHWR LPSRUWDQWDQGVFHQLFYLVWDORFDWLRQV ʊ 3URYLGHDFFHVVWRZDWHUIDOODUHDRIIRI5LFKDUGVRQ 5RDG ,QVWDOOVWDLUFDVHDQGUDLOLQJWRDOORZDFFHVVWR FUHHNDQGSRWHQWLDORYHUORRNDUHD 3URYLGHVHFRQGDU\RYHUORRNDWWKHWRSRIWKH Existing signage JRUJH3RWHQWLDOO\FOHDUEUXVKEUDQFKHVWR SURYLGHVFHQLFYLHZRIZDWHUIDOODQGUDYLQH 3URYLGHUDLOLQJ ɵ3ULRULW\ /RZ ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH*UDQWV Connectivity/Signage: • (A: 7.0-7.5) Establish minor gateways, welcome sign and rules, for the following park locations: ʊ 5LFKDUGVRQ&RWWDJH ʊ (DVWSDUNERUGHUDORQJ(PHU\5RDG ʊ :HVWSDUNERUGHUDORQJ(PHU\5RDG ʊ 6RXWKSDUNERUGHUDORQJ&RUQZDOO5RDG ʊ 6WRKUHU·V/RGJHHQWUDQFHRIIRI&RUQZDOO5RDG ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH Existing signage V2-140 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 • (A: 8.0-8.4)3URYLGHFRQVLVWHQWZD\ÀQGLQJVLJQDJHDQG • (A: 8.5) Provide and install a large trail map, identifying directional signage within the park: RQO\WKHRIÀFLDOPDUNHGWUDLOVZLWKSURSHUGLVWDQFH ʊ 3URYLGHGLUHFWLRQDOVLJQDJHWRYDULRXVSRLQWVRI SRVWLQJVWUDLOFRQGLWLRQVDQGXVHUGLIÀFXOWLHV interest ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP ʊ 3URYLGHRYHUDOOSDUNPDSVVKRZLQJSDUNIHDWXUHV ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH comfort stations and shelters ʊ (OL]DEHWK*URYH7UDLO • All trail markings/signage need to be clearly ʊ ;&6NL7UDLO understandable from a non-experienced trail user. ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH • (A: 9.0-9.3) Provide directional signage to the park at • (A: 10.0) Although Emery Road cuts the park in half, strategic locations: establish a smoother, “seamless” transition between ʊ ,QWHUVHFWLRQRI2OHDQ5RDGDQG(PHU\5RDG the north side and the south side of the park. ʊ ,QWHUVHFWLRQRI&HQWHU6WUHHWDQG(PHU\5RDG ʊ 3HGHVWULDQWUDLOVVKRXOGOLQNDFURVVWKHURDGLQD ʊ ,QWHUVHFWLRQRI2OHDQ5RDGDQG5LFKDUGVRQ5RDG YLVLEOHDQGVDIHIDVKLRQ ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP ʊ ´WUDIÀFFDOPLQJµPHDVXUHVVKRXOGEHFRQVLGHUHG ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH IRUWUDIÀFDORQJ(PHU\5RDG ʊ /RZHUWKHVSHHGOLPLWRI(PHU\5RDGZLWKLQWKH SDUN ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH Waterfall near Emery Road VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-141 2.5 EMERY PARK FINAL PLAN • (C: 1.0-1.1) Establish enhanced gateways for the park at 3DUNLVSOD\HGDFURVVWKHLUPRZHGODZQDUHDV the following locations: DQGUHVXOWLQIDUOHVVGDPDJHWRWKHODQGVFDSH ʊ 0DLQSDUNHQWU\URDGVDORQJ(PHU\5RDG :RUNZLWK1LDJDUD5HJLRQ'LVF*ROIWRUHGHVLJQ ɵ3ULRULW\ /RZ WKHFRXUVHLQWROHVVHQYLURQPHQWDOO\VHQVLWLYH ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH DUHDV3URYLGHDOWHUQDWHKROHORFDWLRQVWRUHGXFH FRPSDFWLRQ • Establish a stronger linkage between Emery Park and ɵ3ULRULW\ +LJK the hamlet of South Wales,LQFOXGLQJWKH*RZ6FKRRO ɵ3DUWQHU 1LDJDUD5HJLRQ'LVF*ROI WKURXJKZD\ÀQGLQJVLJQDJHPDSVHWF 3URYLGHFOHDU OLQNDJHVIURP(PHU\3DUNWRDUHDELF\FOHURXWHVDQG • Continue progress with expansion, enhancements, and WUDLOV connectivity to park trails. ɵ3ULRULW\ /RZ ʊ &RQVLGHUWKHGHVLJQRIVRPH$'$DFFHVVLEOHWUDLOV ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH ZKHUHSRVVLEOH ʊ 3URYLGHNLRVNVZLWKWUDLOPDSVDQGUXOHVDWVHOHFW Recreation: WUDLOKHDGORFDWLRQV • (A: 6.1) Improve and maintain playground structures ʊ 3URYLGHLQWHUSUHWLYHVLJQDJHDORQJWKHWUDLOV throughout park. KLJKOLJKWLQJÁRUDIDXQDDQGZLOGOLIH ʊ 3URYLGHRUUHSOHQLVKÀEHUIDOOVXUIDFHVDW ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP SOD\JURXQGVDQQXDOO\ ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH ʊ 5HSODFHVZLQJVSOD\HTXLSPHQWDVQHHGHGGXHWR ZHDUDQGWHDU • (C: 6.0) Tennis courts should be resurfaced and ɵ3ULRULW\ +LJK restriped. ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH ʊ 7KHUHDUHFXUUHQWO\WHQQLVFRXUWV ([SORUH WKHSRWHQWLDOWRSURYLGHDGGLWLRQDOUHFUHDWLRQDO • (P: 7.0) Potential relocation of Disc golf holes to prevent RSSRUWXQLWLHVOLNHDPXOWLSXUSRVHVSRUWVFRXUWIRU continuous damage to natural areas and wildlife. EDVNHWEDOODQGSLFNOHEDOO ʊ 3RVVLEO\VKLIWVRPHKROHVDZD\IURPZRRGHG ʊ &RQVLGHUGXDOVWULSLQJDFRXUWRUWZRWRSURYLGH IRUHVWHGDUHDVLQWRH[LVWLQJPRZHGODZQDUHDV DGGLWLRQDOUHFUHDWLRQDORSSRUWXQLWLHVOLNH 'LVFJROIDW(OOLFRWW&UHHN3DUNDQG&RPR/DNH 3LFNOHEDOO ɵ3ULRULW\ 0HGLXP ɵ3DUWQHU &RQWUDFWRU,Q+RXVH 'LVFJROIXVDJHDQGIRRWWUDIÀFFDXVLQJGDPDJHWRWKHVXUURXQGLQJODQGVFDSH V2-142 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 • (A: 6.2) Improve playground facilities throughout the park. Remove and replace oldest, non-compliant structures with newer equipment. &RQVLGHUHDUWKWRQH FRORUVLQWKH+HULWDJHSDUNVHWWLQJUDWKHUWKDQEULJKW SULPDU\FRORUV5HIHUWRV\VWHPZLGHSOD\JURXQG UHFRPPHQGDWLRQV ɵ3ULRULW\ /RZ ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH • (P: 9.0) Repurpose or restore baseball diamond based on usage and partnership opportunities. &RRUGLQDWH ZLWK9LVLW%XIIDOR1LDJDUDWRH[SORUHWRXUQDPHQWDQG UHFUHDWLRQSURVSHFWV ɵ3ULRULW\ /RZ ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH9LVLW%XIIDOR1LDJDUD • ,PSURYHÀVKLQJDFFHVVDQGRSSRUWXQLWLHVWRWKHHGJHRI Old metal slide Cazenovia Creek and possibly the old park reservoir. ɵ3ULRULW\ /RZ ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH • Consider the safety conditions at the existing ski facility; ʊ ,QWKHIXWXUHWUDQVLWLRQWKHH[LVWLQJVNLKLOOLQWRD VQRZERDUGDQGVOHGGLQJIDFLOLW\)XWXUHVDIHW\ LPSURYHPHQWVPD\EHQHHGHGWRSURYLGHWKH RSWLPDOFRQGLWLRQVIRUWKHVHGHVLUDEOHZLQWHU DFWLYLWLHV ɵ3ULRULW\ /RZ ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH • (A: 14.0) Utilize skating area as available at the Stohrer Lodge; /LPLWHGSDUNVWDIIDQGRUSXEOLFSDUWLFLSDWLRQPD\ OLPLWWKHQHHGIRUWKLV ɵ3ULRULW\ /RZ ɵ3DUWQHU ,Q+RXVH Existing baseball diamond located near maintenance buildings • (P: 8.0)5HVWRUHROGEULFNZDONZD\VKXIÁHERDUGFRXUWV and white pergola with garden plantings near the site of the former Emery Inn. ʊ 8WLOL]HSDUWQHUVKLSVDQGYROXQWHHUJURXSVWR UHVWRUHSUHVHUYHXQLTXHDUHDRIWKHSDUN ɵ3ULRULW\ /RZ ɵ3DUWQHU 3ULYDWH%XVLQHVVHV&RPPXQLW\ *URXSV • (P: 10.0) Potential mountain biking/shared trail systems could be establishedZLWKSURSHUVWXGLHVXVHUJURXS IXQGLQJVXSSRUWDQGLIGHHPHGDSSURSULDWH GRHVQRW FRQÁLFWZLWKRWKHUSDUNXVHV ɵ3ULRULW\ /RZ ɵ3DUWQHU 8VHUJURXSV:1<0%$ 6KXIÁHERDUGDQG*D]HER VOLUME 2: PARK SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS - 2.0 HERITAGE PARKS V2-143 2.5 EMERY PARK FINAL PLAN Environment: • (P: 11.0) Address and remove threatening invasive • (A: 4.1-4.2) Improve the tree health of the park, in speciesOLNH&RPPRQ%XFNWKRUQ*DUOLF0XVWDUG&KLQHVH particular within maintained areas. 3ULYHW3XUSOH/RRVHVWULIHDQG3RLVRQ,Y\ZKLFKDUH ʊ 5HPRYHGHDGG\LQJRUGLVHDVHGWUHHV VWDUWLQJWRJDLQJURXQGLQPDQ\DUHDVRIWKHSDUN ʊ 3UXQHGHDGZRRGIURPWUHHV ɵ3ULRULW\ +LJK ʊ 5RXWLQHO\PRQLWRUWKHWUHHSRSXODWLRQIRU ɵ3DUWQHU :1<3ULVP LQGLFDWLRQVRISHVWLQIHVWDWLRQV ʊ 3URYLGHQHZQDWLYHWUHHSODQWLQJVWKURXJKRXW • (P: 12.0) Encourage and emphasize natural features WKHSDUNSDUWLFXODUO\DORQJWKHURDGZD\HGJHV and opportunities to connect with park ecology. &RQVXOW&RXQW\)RUHVWHUDQGORFDOH[SHUWVWR ʊ 3ULRULWL]HSURWHFWLRQDQGHQKDQFHPHQWRI GHWHUPLQHDSSURSULDWHVSHFLHVWREHQHÀWZLOGOLIH VHQVLWLYHHFRORJLFDODUHDV ʊ 'HYHORSDPXOWLSURQJHGDSSURDFKWRWUHH ʊ 3URSRVHDSSURSULDWHDGGLWLRQDOQDWLYHSODQWLQJV SODQWLQJVWUDWHJ\LQFOXGLQJFRQWUDFWHGZRUNLQ WKURXJKRXWWKHSDUN KRXVHVWDIIDQGYROXQWHHUJURXSSODQWLQJV ʊ 3ULRULWL]HQDWLYHSROOLQDWRUIULHQGO\SODQWLQJVIRU ʊ 'HYHORSDQQXDOWUHHSODQWLQJSURJUDPWRUHVWRUH ELUGDQGEXWWHUÁ\KDELWDWV WUHHFDQRS\DQGLPSURYHQDWXUDOLPDJHRIWKH ʊ 'HVLJQDWHSRWHQWLDOQDWLYHSODQWJDUGHQVWR SDUN SURPRWHHGXFDWLRQDODQGLQWHUSUHWLYHHOHPHQWV ʊ $SSO\IRUIXQGLQJIURP1<6'(&IRUH[DPSOHIRU ZKLOHLQFUHDVLQJKDELWDWVIRULQVHFWELUGKDELWDWV SXUFKDVHRIWUHHVDQGPDWHULDOVDQGIRUWKHWUHH LQYHQWRU\ ɵ3ULRULW\ +LJK ɵ3DUWQHU :1<35,60(&6:')RUHVWU\ Scenic trail off of the Elizabeth Grove Trail V2-144 ERIE COUNTY PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE FINAL PLAN VOLUME 2 ʊ 7KH&RXQW\VKRXOGHQFRXUDJHWKHGHYHORSPHQW • Improve the health of creeks/waterways. 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