Executive Summary

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

In 1992 the State of New York designated the “Champlain Trail Scenic Byway”, recognizing the roadway’s access to the historic, scenic, cultural, natural, and recreational qualities of Lake Champlain and the communities that line its shores. Subsequent to the designation, a corridor management planning process for the Champlain Trail was undertaken in conjunc- tion with the communities along the Vermont shore of Lake Champlain. In 1997, through a Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Sce- nic Byway planning grant, three New York County Planning Offices (Clinton, Essex and Washington) and four Vermont Regional Plan- ning Commissions (Northwest, Chittenden, Addison, and Rutland) began a joint planning project, Lake Champlain Byways (“Byways”), to study the feasibility of developing a 250-mile bi-state route that surrounds America’s sixth largest fresh-water lake. The work of the Cor- ridor Management Plan has focused on coor- dinating existing activities to establish a regional identity and develop a partnership approach to unify the Lake as a region. Strate- The Lake Champlain Byways project coordi- gies and partnerships have been identified to nator was responsible for the unification of the promote, interpret and steward the region’s project. The coordinator developed a regional resources in balance with economic develop- framework for the project, provided guidance ment in the region. to the LAC’s to ensure consistency in the program and policy for the Corridor Management The project has been overseen by the Byways Plan, staffed the Steering Committee and Task Steering Committee, which represents county Groups, and provided administrative assis- planning offices, state agencies, the tance for the project. Adirondack North Country Association, and the Lake Champlain Basin Program. This The management structure for the Lake Cham- group met at least once every three months to plain Byways project allowed for: coordinate between the agencies, serve as an advisory role to the counties for policy and • A forum that invites participation program development, and provide technical from numerous and diverse interest assistance as required. groups to develop collaborative actions at the regional level; Each New York and Vermont county surround- • the development of a partnership ing the lake established and staffed a Local approach to the management of the Advisory Committee (LAC) that developed the region’s resources; local vision, goals, and objectives for the plan. • a structure that facilitates communica- Representatives of the Local Advisory Com- tion between counties to unify the mittees participated in regional efforts to unify lake region; the region and identify local actions to imple- • the implementation of regional actions ment the plan. In addition, Tasks Groups pro- within the framework of local jurisdic- vided expertise and guidance for special as- tions and regulations; and pects of the project — Economic Study, Hike & • the local interpretation of the needs Walk Study, and Lake Champlain Bikeways. for the resources. 1

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT EXECUTIVE From existing data sources and studies, a da- The Lake Champlain Byways Corridor Man- SUMMARY tabase of the public and non-profit sites of the agement Plan (CMP) consists of eight county scenic, natural, historic, cultural, recreational sections and a regional piece. This allows for and working landscape resources of the Lake the identification of regional goals, objectives Champlain region was developed as an assess- and agreement for collaborative work, and ment of the region’s Byway resources. This then each county can develop specific actions database includes attributes for each entry and that reflect local needs, jurisdictions, regula- identified growth opportunities and limitations, etc. The Byways CMP is not expected to tions; activities and programs, services and be an end-all document. It has been drafted to facilities; and the management entity. All the be a document that will continue to evolve. data is coded to facilitate integration with GIS. Specific areas where there is interest to work This data can be used for many purposes, in- together include: education, recreation, trans- cluding the development of marketing and portation, agriculture, tourism, environment, interpretive materials, and coordination of ex- and historic/cultural resource management. isting organizations, and the creation of interactive kiosks and web-sites. Through the By- There is a challenge in finding an organization ways project, other regional collaborative ac- to rise above the numerous political and juris- tions were initiated: the development of a re- dictional groups of such a large multi-state, gional multi-modal transportation network multi-national region for the continued man- and Waypoint communities, Champlain region agement of Lake Champlain Byways. How- birding trail, a regional interpretive sign de- ever, the structure utilized in developing the sign, production of an audio tape and brochure corridor management plan demonstrates that that describes the Champlain region’s intrin- there is promise in the continuation of an “or- sic resources, agricultural tourism initiative, ganization of organizations”. In this model, and interpretive bike theme loops. the Steering Committee represents the major players and regional interests, and the LACs The Byways project undertook an economic implement the regional actions at the local study to identify a way to unify and rejuve- level. The administration can be cumbersome nate the communities of the Lake Champlain at times, but it works. The greatest benefit of region. Over the course of 14 public forums such a structure may override the problems — in the region, a specific strategy emerged: the partnerships and cooperative nature of a coalition of local organizations ensures local Célébration Champlain!: a two-state, multi- control of the organization, and establishes a nation regional celebration of the Lake and local commitment to the project. River beginning with the 400th anniversary of Champlain’s arrival to the Richelieu River in From the work done to date, the establishment 1603 and culminating with the 400th anniver- of Lake Champlain Byways is feasible. Lake sary of Champlain’s arrival to Lake Champlain Champlain Byways is more than a designated in 1609. roadway. It reflects a “geographic sense of place” that is created by a concentration of It is anticipated that “Célébration Champlain!” byway resources that have a functional or will be based on the transportation network of physical relationship to Lake Champlain. The the Byway, and will serve as the catalyst to objective of regional unity is realized through implement the actions of the Byways Corridor the linkage of communities by a network of Management Plan, as well as other local plans. multi-modal routes with themed interpreta- Célébration Champlain! is more than an event, tion. Management and enhancement of the it is the preparation for the anniversary that Byway resources is accomplished in this corri- will leave behind a legacy of physical improve- dor management plan through a non-regula- ments, regional activities, and a two-state, tory approach. This approach originates with multi-national identity that is known through- education to increase public awareness and out the world. The Célébration Champlain! Stra- appreciation for the resources, incentives to tegic Framework has been developed as part of develop and maintain a sound economy in all the Byways Corridor Management Plan, and sectors, and a community commitment to man- will be expanded to include specific actions to age and care for things that are important. 2 create a Strategic Plan. REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN INTRODUCTION

Lake Champlain, nestled between the Adirondack Mountains of New York and the Green Mountains of Vermont, is a great lake in its own right. Residents and visitors have an appreciation for its beautiful scenery, recreational activities, diverse natural habitats, rich cultural resources, and proud history. Lake Courtesy: Lake Champlain Basin Program Champlain flows north through the Richeleau River to the St. Lawrence Seaway, and it also connects to the Hudson River in the south via in turn makes the area particularly influential the Champlain Canal. Because of its strategic when it comes to state-wide issues and atten- location in North America, events and battles tion. However, for New York, the opposite is took place on this waterway that shaped the true. Upstate New York, in particular the Lake future of two modern nations. Champlain portion of the Adirondack region, has a low population density and minimal eco- Over the past four hundred years, the Cham- nomic impact on the State of New York as a plain Valley has been divided by two major whole. Throughout the Byways planning pro- nations, two states, eight counties, and fifty- cess, these facts were continually identified by four towns; all with a direct relationship to the the participants as challenges to develop lake, and controlled by many different politi- “equality” in the region. cal jurisdictions. For centuries the lake served as a binding force for the region. Native At the outset of the Byways project it was evi- Americans, as well as for European armies, dent that one of the region’s greatest problems fought valiantly for control of the strategic is the lack of public awareness that Lake Cham- waterway. And with the canals, it became this plain even exists, much less where it might be nation’s first major navigable waterway, a on the map. Anecdotes about the lake being major North American transportation route for in the center of Vermont, or identified on the settlement and commercial development in the Internet as being a Vermont lake, were continu- 18th and 19th centuries. But by the 20th cen- ally being shared. In the spring of 1998, Lake tury when rail and motor vehicles established Champlain was briefly recognized by Congress a land-based transportation system, the lake as the “Sixth Great Lake” which did bring some became a barrier in the region. The Lake national attention, and debate, about it’s quali- Champlain Byways project has looked to find ties and national significance. Due to the strong ways to have the Lake once again serve as the objections made by the Great Lakes States, this binding force between the communities that title was subsequently removed, but did pro- line its shores. vide the region some National notoriety and recognition. The Lake Champlain region is classified as rural, with Burlington and South Burlington, VT In 1992 the State of New York designated the the only metropolitan areas recognized by the “Champlain Trail Scenic Byway”, recognizing 1990 Census. The Vermont shoreline towns the roadway’s access to the historic, scenic, have experienced a great deal of growth over cultural, natural, and recreational qualities of the past forty years, nearly double of that ex- the region. In 1997, through a Federal High- perienced by the New York communities. In way Administration Scenic Byway planning fact, seven lakeshore communities in New York grant, the New York and Vermont county plan- have seen a net decrease in population since ning offices began a joint planning project. 19801. In addition, the Vermont communities Lake Champlain Byways was set up to study along the lakeshore make up a significant per- the feasibility of developing a 250-mile bi-state centage of Vermont’s total population, which route that surrounds America’s sixth largest 3

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT INTRODUCTION fresh-water lake. The work of the Corridor By recognizing local heritage and resources, Management Plan has focused on coordinat- communities within each county worked to- ing existing activities to establish a regional gether to create a shared identity for the entire identity and develop a partnership approach Lake Champlain region as the basis for an ac- to unify the Lake as a region. tion plan. This grass-roots process identified ways to balance economic development and tourism with stewardship of the resources. The project was designed to build on the work of existing organizations for broad participation of diverse partners.

Courtesy: Washington County Planning Department

Lake Champlain Byways is a collaborative effort between the New York counties of Clin- ton, Essex and Washington; Vermont counties of Addison, Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle, and Rutland; the Adirondack North Country Association (ANCA), The New York State De- partment of Transportation (NYSDOT), Ver- mont Agency of Transportation (VAOT), New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & His- toric Preservation (OPRHP), Vermont Depart- ment of Forest, Parks & Recreation (VDFP&R), and the Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP). The Steering Committee developed mission and vision statements for the Lake Champlain Byways planning project:

• The mission of Lake Champlain Byways is to create a unified corridor management plan that balances economic development and tourism with the stewardship of the Byway resources.

• The vision of Lake Champlain Byways is to have an interconnected transportation system which allows the users to recognize, promote and manage the special qualities of each region of the Lake Champlain Valley.

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN PROJECT MANAGEMENT

The project structure consisted of a Steering LOCAL ADVISORY COMMITTEES Committee, Local Advisory Committees (LAC), and a Project Coordinator. Each county established and staffed a Local Advisory Committee (LAC) to develop the vi- STEERING COMMITTEE sion, goals, and objectives for the plan. Each LAC was responsible for the development their The Steering Committee members met every county’s Byway product, program, and policy three months to review the project progress to development which are reflected in the local ensure that the project met the requirements components of the Corridor Management Plan. of the grant and workplan. All members of The LACs utilized a grassroots approach to the Steering Committee served an advisory encourage participation and inspire creativity role to the LACs for policy and program de- to ensure that the end product of the project velopment and provided technical resources was of value to visitors and local residents. as required. Three levels of responsibility were Representatives of the LACs participated in assigned to the Steering Committee members: regional meetings and served on task groups that unified the project and identified actions Executive Partners: in the Corridor Management Plan. Ensured administrative and fiscal requirements of the grant were met. PROJECT COORDINATOR

New York Department of Transportation The Lake Champlain Byways project coordi- Vermont Agency of Transportation nator was responsible for the unification of the Adirondack North Country Association project. The coordinator developed a regional Addison County Regional Planning framework for the project and provided guid- Commission ance to the LAC’s to ensure consistency in the program and policy for the Corridor Manage- Managing Partners: ment Plan. In addition, the coordinator staffed Ensured that the work plan was completed. the Steering Committee and regional task groups and provided administrative assistance Addison County Regional Planning for the project. Commission Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission Rutland Regional Planning Commission Northwest Regional Planning Commis- sion Clinton County Planning Department Essex County Planning Department Washington County Planning Depart- ment

Technical Partners: Provided technical assistance and support to the project.

Lake Champlain Basin Program Recre- ation and Cultural Resource programs New York Office of Parks, Recreation, & Historic Preservation Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, & Recreation 5

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT THE NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY PROGRAM

A byway is a special route (or network of routes) that offers the traveler access to beau- • The byways must be significant in at tiful scenery, recreational opportunities, cul- least one of the six intrinsic values tural and natural resources. The byway pro- categories: scenic, historic, natural, vides an antidote to the monotony of linear, cultural, recreational, or archaeologi- high-speed travel; and introduces us to places cal. we might otherwise pass by. They can be spec- • A Scenic Byways program is for the tacular destinations or a favorite local road. recognition, interpretation, mainte- They can be rural, suburban or urban. They nance, enhancement and preservation come with different names: rustic roads, sce- of the byways’ intrinsic qualities. nic highways, historic roadways, or backways. • A management plan demonstrates a The common thread is that a byway must be a commitment to preserve and manage roadway that a community regards as a spe- identified assets. The expectation is cial resource to be promoted and managed. that designation would increase tourism, create new jobs, and foster The recent increase in Scenic Byway interest economic development, and should has been supported by the Federal Highway have a narrative as to how the byway Administration (FHWA) funding opportuni- is positioned for marketing. ties of the Intermodal Surface Transportation • Designated Scenic Byways must Efficiency Act (ISTEA) and the transportation accommodate 2-wheel drive autos, Efficiency Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21), and should accommodate bikes and which have developed the rationale and ben- pedestrians. efits of a National Scenic Byways Program:

• Assure that Americans know and appreciate scenic, cultural and natural resources. • Induce economic development in communities and regions. • Manage and enhance scenic, cultural and natural resources. • Manage traffic by diverting and channeling tourist traffic. • Encourage visitors to come, stay, and travel. Whitehall, NY: Skene Manor and the Champlain Canal Courtesy: Washington County Planning Department Interagency coordination exists within the Fed- eral Scenic Road Cooperative Activities of the US Department of Transportation and FHWA, Since 1992, nearly all of the States have estab- US Department of the Interior and National lished programs that allow for the designation Park Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Bureau of State Scenic Byways. From those, States can of Land Management; US Department of Ag- nominate roadways to serve as National Sce- riculture and US Forest Service as well as other nic Byways, and the best of those can be desig- Federal agencies that deal with land and wa- nated as All-American Roads, the “cream of ter development and flood control. In 1991, the crop” of the National Scenic Byway Pro- ISTEA directed the Secretary of Transportation gram. to establish a National Scenic Byways Advi- sory Committee to assist in the development of a national program. This committee stud- ied and provided the following recommenda- 6 tions:

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN THE LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS A PPROACH

At the outset of the project, many local com- The most exciting aspect a grass-roots ap- munities expressed a concern that the Byways proach to developing the Corridor Manage- plan would add to the regulatory control of ment Plan is that it allows for a great deal of private lands. So rather than relying on land local control, while expanding regional inter- use policies and regulations, it was proposed action and opportunities for cooperation. to utilize an education and incentive approach Through the Corridor Management Plan, to steward and promote the region’s resources. seven resource areas have been identified for The Byways Steering Committee embraced the regional coordination: idea of building partnerships in the region. By utilizing a “product-oriented” approach to • Transportation developing the Corridor Management Plan • Education (CMP), each LAC addressed the needs of the • Recreation scenic, natural, cultural, recreational, histori- • Cultural Heritage cal and working landscape resources of the • Tourism Lake Champlain region. Each LAC undertook • Agriculture one or more small projects that identified the • Environment issues and opportunities for the CMP. The process of developing these projects: While developing the CMP, a small project was undertaken for each activity area by at least • Generated interest in the project — one LAC. It is anticipated that local projects something that sparked imagination for all of the activity areas, fulfilling the re- and creativity; gional needs, will be developed over time by • created something that allowed local each LAC. As it turned out, this approach to interpretation of the resources; developing a plan allowed for implementation • provided a framework for contribu- during the planning process. The product-ori- tions from many stakeholders; ented approach to developing the plan rein- • developed ownership and identified forced what a Byways program could do for roles for the management of the the region, and eliminated perceived concerns region’s resources; and fears. • provided a structure that facilitated communication and unification of the Early in the project, it was recognized that de- lake region and veloping and implementing a Corridor Man- • created a CMP that is meaningful and agement Plan for such a large and diverse area worthwhile. was a tremendous undertaking. An effective plan will have to be one that will continue to Through the development of small projects, the develop, even after the initial plan was com- LACs were able to clarify what a Byway could pleted. The Corridor Management Plan for do for them, and what they did not want to Lake Champlain Byways is designed to be an come from the designation of the Byway. These evolving document, intended to be reviewed discussions explored opportunities, addressed and modified on a regular basis. needs, and identified partners that would implement an action plan. Each county’s component of the Corridor Management Plan provides recommendations:

• To encourage visitors to “see and do” Lake Champlain Byways; • for local management of resources in a self-sustaining manner; and • to enhance the Byway for the enjoy- ment of residents and visitors. 7

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT CREATING A VISION FOR LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS

As the first step in the Lake Champlain Byways Addison County “visioning” process, each LAC identified what • The working landscape of the area’s is special about their county. A summary of farms, timberland, and quarries the qualities and characteristics demonstrates • Diverse communities and community- the diverse nature of the region: minded people • Recreational opportunities Clinton County • Abundant lakeside recreation facilities Rutland County • Scenic beauty - from lake views to • The Slate and Marble rural farmland • The Revolutionary War — abundant • Convenient and accessible visitor sites historic sites and facilities • The Lakes Region — the natural • Strategic site for military history since environment of the streams, ponds, our nation’s birth and lakes

Essex County • The natural resources and working landscapes • The “Adirondack Coast” where hamlets link the land to the lake • An industrial legacy

Washington County • Whitehall - the birthplace of the US Navy and the canal • The southern Lake Champlain - a unique natural environment • Pride in our agriculture

Grand Isle County Hiking trails in the Lake Champlain Region offer dramatic views. • The Islands — a unique landscape Courtesy: Lakes Region Marketing Development Corporation • “Picture postcard’ scenery • Recreation abounds THE LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS VISION: Franklin County • Hometown pride Lake Champlain Byways link communities that • Agricultural heritage share the resources and special qualities of Lake • River, stream & Lake access Champlain. The scenic, historic, natural, cultural, recreational, and working landscape resources of the Chittenden County Byway are managed in balance with economic de- • Metropolitan amenities with a home- velopment and tourism. Through the implementa- town feel tion of “Célébration Champlain!” the world has • A regional hub — transportation, learned that the Lake Champlain region possesses communication, and technology the character of two states and multiple nations, • A cultural and historic center — arts, and provides a quality of life for its residents, and festivals, and special events an experience for its visitors, that is surpassed by none.

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN THE LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

From the local visioning process, local goals Ensure that visitors “see and do” Lake and objectives were developed and are identi- Champlain Byways. fied in each county’s component of the Corri- dor Management Plan. The commonalties • Strengthen the inter-modal transporta- were used to develop regional goals and ob- tion infrastructure to reduce the jectives for Lake Champlain Byways: visitors dependency on automobile travel (biking, walking, & boating Unify the communities of the Lake Cham- with ferry, rail, & bus). plain region. • Establish a network of “themed” routes for various modes of transpor- • Strengthen the role of the Lake as the tation that links sites throughout the unifying feature and image of the two- Lake Champlain region — i.e. Birding state, two-nation region through Trail, Geology Trail, etc. tourism promotion and economic development. Ensure that the visitor’s experience meets • Overcome jurisdictional boundaries or exceeds their expectations. for regional interpretive products, marketing and information, resource • Establish a network of communities management, and transportation. that will serve as a hub for Byway activities and could provide visitor Strengthen the economy of the Lake information and services. Champlain region. • Improve access to the Lake “experience”. • Establish a regional Ag-tourism, • Provide “themed” interpretive prod- marketing and education initiative to ucts that tell the story of the region in keep farming and forestry viable. a lively and meaningful way. • Maximize the “Lake Champlain • Establish public restrooms throughout Experience” for the existing travelers the region. through the region — target existing visitors to stop and stay, rather than Provide for local management of resources just drive through. in a self-sustaining manner. • Utilize Lake Champlain image brand- ing for regional value-added products. • Manage the roadsides to enhance the community character and qualities Improve and maintain the quality of life in (stonewalls, wildflower plantings, the Lake Champlain region. historic markers with pull-offs) through public/private partnerships. • Rejuvenate the communities for • Support efforts for environmental residents and visitors. restoration of the lake and natural • Establish an interdisciplinary educa- resources in the region. tional program for all age groups in • Ensure that programs and events for the region. Lake Champlain Byways are estab- • Develop themed programs and events lished and supported at the local level. that can be shared throughout the • Improve recreational opportunities region. while respecting private property and • Coordinate needs and opportunities minimizing conflicts between users. for tourism and economic develop- • Work to coordinate the cross promo- ment so as not to interfere with tion of Byway resource sites to main- residents’ quality of life. tain their viability.

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT THE THEME FOR LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS

The Lake Champlain region is so rich in its his- The Four Lives of toric, natural, and cul- Lake Champlain tural resources that it almost becomes over- 1. Pre-European influ- whelming to identify ence (early geologic one theme for manage- formation of the region, ment, interpretation, en- Native American cul- hancement, and promo- ture) tion efforts. These resources are not only im- 2. European Explora- portant to the residents tion, Settlement and as an integral part of Military Conflicts their “quality of life”, but they are also attractive to 3. Industrial and Com- visitors to explore and mercial Development experience. Numerous

studies have been under- Fort Ticonderoga 4. Recreation, Tourism taken that have consis- Courtesy: Lake Placid/Essex County Visitors Bureau and the Environmental tently identified what Movement motivates people to live or visit the region: Each one of these “lives” has scenic, historic, natural, receational, cultural, and working • The community “feel” of the small landscape resources that reflect the uniqueness villages and towns. within each of the counties that surround the • Abundant outdoor activities and lake. “The Four Lives of Lake Champlain” recreational opportunities. connects the land based resources to the lake, • The scenic qualities of the natural creating a comprehensive and integrating environment and rural landscape. theme to relate the story of the social and eco- • A chance to become “renewed” in nomic development of the Champlain Valley. peaceful settings. The link to the maritime heritage of Lake Champlain is a comprehensive theme for the In an effort to integrate the region’s resources Byway corridor since this country’s first trans- into a unified story for Lake Champlain By- portation routes were along the waterways, ways, resources were identified at the local moving to land when the trees were cleared level, and woven together to create an inte- and the villages grew. grated theme for the region:

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN THE CORRIDOR, TRAVELWAYS, AND COMMUNITIES

THE DESIGNATED BYWAY THE TRAVELWAYS

The Champlain Trail, the State designated Within the corridor, the Champlain Trail is Byway, is the core of Lake Champlain Byways. supplemented by a network of multi-modal In New York, the current designation extends transportation routes: from RT 4 in Hudson Falls northward along RT 22 to Keeseville, along RT 9 to Chazy, and Lake Champlain Bikeways is a network of then along RT 9B to the Canadian Border in routes for bicyclists. The principle route, Rouses Point. Through the development of this “Champlain Bikeway”, circles Lake Cham- plan, several modifications to the designated plain. From this principle route, interpreted route have been proposed. The Vermont com- bicycle theme loops provide access for bicy- munities are currently considering road seg- clists to the smaller communities and road- ments to nominate for Vermont State designa- ways in the region. tion, which will also be known as the Cham- plain Trail. Lake Champlain Walkways is a network of trails and roadways that connect the region’s THE CORRIDOR communities and are accessible by the pedestrian. Although this network is in a pi- Lake Champlain Byways consists of a corridor lot-study stage, it is anticipated that these of byway resources which are accessed by a routes will have local interpretation devel- network of routes for multiple modes of trans- oped for the user. portation — motor vehicles, bicyclists, pedestrians, and boaters. In addition, public trans- Lake Champlain Waterways are routes for portation via ferry, rail, air, and bus contribute boaters that connect the lakeshore to the significantly to the multi-modal features of lake’s streams and rivers up to the first non- Lake Champlain Byways. navigable point (dam or waterfall). The Wa- terways include the Lake Champlain Pad- The boundary of the Lake Champlain corridor dlers Trail, which connects sites along the is defined by the extent of the Byway resources. lake that are accessible to the public. This The scenic, historic, natural, cultural, recre- network is also in a pilot-study stage, it is ational, and working landscape resources that anticipated that these routes will have local have a functional or physical relationship to interpretation developed for the user. Lake Champlain are included within the By- way corridor. So rather than an arbitrarily de- This network of multi-modal routes is devel- fined jurisdictional or dimensional boundary oped to merge transportation and recreation from the lakeshore, each county has defined for the visitor. The slower modes of travel, their corridor to include the Lake and various coupled with interpretation, allows the visitor distances inland. to have a meaningful and authentic experience of the region. Through the Byways planning process, local communities identified appropriate routes of travel for the various modes of transportation. By having visitors utilize various modes of travel, the region can experience reduced congestion on major roadways, while increasing visitor access to the local businesses and services, and showcasing local culture and heritage.

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT THE CORRIDOR, THE WAYPOINT COMMUNITIES TRAVELWAYS, AND COMMUNITIES Within the Lake Champlain Byway Corridor, and connected by the various multi-modal routes, several communities will serve as Lake Champlain Waypoint Communities. Waypoint communities provide access to cultural attractions, natural and historic features, recreation opportunities, as well as access to alternative modes of transportation. As a “hub” for surrounding towns, hamlets, and countryside, each Waypoint Community will provide:

• A physical or functional relationship to the Lake “experience” and resources • Multi-modal access (“mode nodes”) to outlying areas • Accommodations • Food and beverage • Basic retail and local products • Public restrooms

• Directional and interpretative infor- WAYPOINT COMMUNITY: Essex, New York mation Courtesy: Lake Placid//Essex County Visitors Bureau • Equipment rentals for biking, hiking and boating • Connecting hubs for public transpor- Four Waypoint Communities will serve as tation such as buses, ferries, trains, “Gateways” to the region — providing the airports major regional access points from the north, south, east and west. Potential Waypoint Com- munities include (Gateway in bold):

Quebec Chambly, St. Jean sur Richelieu/ Iberville, Granby Clinton County Rouses Point, Plattsburgh, Keeseville Essex County Keeseville, Willsboro, Essex, Westport, Port Henry, Crown Point, Ticonderoga Washington County Whitehall, Granville Rutland County Fair Haven, Poultney, Brandon Addison County Middlebury, Vergennes Chittenden County Shelburne, Burlington Grand Isle County South Hero, Grand Isle, North Hero Franklin County St. Albans, Swanton 12

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE

THE CHAMPLAIN TRAIL nated Byway and demonstrated benefits of Byway designation. The New York planners In 1992 the New York State Legislature estab- evaluated the designated route, defined the lished by Chapter 556 of the Laws of 1992, vision and goals for the Byway, and identified Highway Law Article XII-C, the New York specific actions for implementation. But Ver- State Scenic Byways Program. Under that law, mont had a brand-new state program and a the Champlain Trail Scenic Byway was estab- great deal of local skepticism regarding the lished as one of the first components for the value of designating a Byway route. So the State’s scenic byway system. The current des- primary work effort in Vermont focused on ignation for the Champlain Trail is defined by developing a local understanding of the Ver- section three hundred forty-two-t (§ 342-t) of mont State Byway program and what desig- the chapter: nation could accomplish for local communities. The county planners strongly supported All that portion of the state and county designation to be initiated at the local level. To system beginning at the intersection of ensure local support for State Byway designa- route two hundred fifty-four and tion, it was agreed that all requests for high- route four in the town of Hudson Falls way designation as a State Byway would be and proceeding north on route four to endorsed by the town or city elected officials. Whitehall, then continuing north on Although this approach creates a cumbersome route twenty-two to Ticonderoga, process to establish a continuous designated continuing north on route nine-N/ Byway route in Vermont and around the Lake, twenty-two to Westport, continuing it ensures local involvement in the develop- north on route twenty-two to Essex, ment of the plan and a commitment to the then north on route twenty-two to implementation of the goals for designation. Keeseville, then continuing north on route nine to Plattsburgh and further The FHWA planning grant proposed that the north on route nine through Chazy to Champlain Trail in Vermont would utilize US the intersection of routes nine and RT 4 east from the New York State line to VT nine-B, then north on route nine-B to RT 22A in Fair Haven, proceeding north on VT termination point of the Canadian RT 22A to US RT 7 in Vergennes, proceeding border in the village of Rouses Point. north on US RT 7 to US RT 2 in Colchester, proceeding west on US RT 2 to the New York State The New York State Scenic Byways Program Nomi- line. This route description provided the basis nation Handbook, outlines the steps for nomi- for the Lake Champlain orientation of the cor- nating a scenic byway. In New York, all of the ridor, as well as providing structure for the counties have identified modifications to the evaluation of the byway resources. During the current designation for the Champlain Trail. planning process communities evaluated the The proposed changes are detailed and sub- initial route. Some communities rejected the stantiated in the county component of the Cor- concept of route designation entirely, while ridor Management Plan, and summarized un- others accepted the proposed route, or even der State Byway Designation, page 32 of this added route segments to better integrate the chapter of the Corridor Management Plan. A communities in the Lake region. In particular, single application for the changes will be sub- Franklin County, with the northern connection mitted to the NYS Scenic Byways Advisory to Canada along US RT 7 and I-89, wanted to Board, according to the process outlined in the be involved in the planning process. New York State Scenic Byways Program Nomina- tion Handbook, by the county planning offices. To date, the communities of Middlebury and Vergennes have received support from elected The initial challenge for Lake Champlain By- officials to pursue designation for portions of ways was to integrate two different State By- the Champlain Trail. The proposed designa- way programs. New York State had a desig- tions are detailed and substantiated in the 13

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT TRANSPORTATION Addison County component of the Corridor Throughout the region, local communities ex- INFRASTRUCTURE Management Plan, and summarized under pressed a concern that the local roads are at “State Byway Designation,” within this com- capacity, and serving many roadway users — ponent of the Corridor Management Plan. commuters, trucking, bicyclists, farmers, as These applications are being submitted for well as visitors. Many of the roadways have State designation, according to the process little shoulder width and a limited ability to outlined in the Vermont Byways Program carry these various modes of transportation Manual, by the municipalities with assistance along one roadway. In most cases, the infra- from the Addison County Regional Planning structure limitation is due to physical con- Commission. straints such as rock cliffs and wetlands, so options for roadway improvements are limited. ROADWAY MANAGEMENT Specific transportation improvements along the Champlain Trail are detailed in each Nationwide, there is a significant evolution in county’s component of the Corridor Manage- transportation programs planning and devel- ment Plan. The two state agencies of trans- opment underway. Variously known as portation will play an important role in the “Thinking Beyond the Pavement”, “Flexibility implementation of the transportation improve- in Design”, and “Context Sensitive Design”, ments identified in this plan. the inherent precept is clear; aesthetic design and design flexibility have become high prior- According to transportation and tourism stud- ity activities nationwide. ies recently done in the area, roads in the region serve as the “scenic drive” between other The New York State Department of Transpor- destinations, like Montreal and Boston, or Lake tation has embraced Context Sensitive Design. Placid and the Maine coast. This is particularly This will result in a seamless project develop- a problem in the Lake Champlain Islands ment process that will develop projects that are where the automobile traffic and tourism de- appropriate to their settings and at the same mands are critical in the peak summer months. time satisfy transportation and community Communities are worried about public safety, needs. and addressed their concerns by having the Corridor Management Plan target actions to Along a similar vein, the Vermont Agency of maximize the benefit from the existing travel- Transportation has recently adopted new de- ers. sign standards for roadways in an effort to balance mobility and land access to the various functional classifications of roadways. The Vermont State Standards for Construction, Recon- struction and Rehabilitation of Roadways and Bridges has been designed with two purposes in mind:

• To provide clear technical direction to the designers of transportation projects in Vermont, and • to achieve roadway and bridge designs which provide access, mobility and safety for users and which are sensitive to the social and environmental context of Vermont. Conflicts arise between multiple highway users along the narrow US RT 2 roadway in Grand Isle, VT Both of these state programs offer transporta- Courtesy: Mountain Lake PBS tion officials and communities the opportunity to manage not only the designated Byway, but all of the roadways within the Byway corridor in a manner that will be sensitive to the natu- 14 ral and built environment. REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE

Rail Service Promotion & Package Actions: Amtrak runs three lines to the region:

• Develop programs that will entice • The Adirondack — travels through visitors that are “passing through” to New York State, from Albany to stop and spend their money in the Montreal, serving Plattsburgh, Port region — target sites such as the Kent, Port Henry, Ticonderoga, ferries and rest areas to inform visitors Westport, and Whitehall of activities and resources. • The Ethan Allen Express — travels • Develop programs and activities to from New York City through extend the shoulder seasons (early Whitehall (no service) to Rutland, VT spring and late fall) to increase the • The Vermonter — travels from New tourism benefit through longer York City through Connecticut, periods of the year. Massachusetts and Vermont, serving • Expand public transportation connec- Essex Junction and St. Albans. tions to target markets (New York City, Boston, Toronto) to get visitors to The Adirondack runs right along the shoreline the region without additional automo- of Lake Champlain for long stretches, provid- biles. ing some of the most dramatic views of the • Develop theme loops for visitors to lake. Several opportunities have been identi- experience the region by bike, on foot, fied for multi-modal connections and partner- or by water. ships. The train now provides cars to carry • Link bike, hike and water theme loops bikes and has begun to print and distribute a with service providers and public “pocket card” for Lake Champlain Bikeways. transportation to market as visitor More ideas for partnerships with Amtrak have “packages”. been identified. • Promote the region as a place that one can visit without a car, target markets with an interest in recreation and environmental awareness.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

The Lake Champlain region has a strong public transportation system. Service is provided by rail, bus, air, canal and ferry. This strong infrastructure provides many opportunities for multi-modal connections throughout the re- Amtrak’s “The Adirondack” gion. For example, many of the hiking trails Courtesy: Washington County Planning Department and village walking tours that can be accessed by public transportation have been identified The Champlain Valley Weekender, summer in the “Lake Champlain Byways Hike and train service, currently runs two trips each day Walk Study”, included in the Special Studies on Saturday and Sunday, between Burlington component of the Corridor Management Plan. and Middlebury, with stops in Vergennes and Shelburne. The Vermont Agency of Transpor- tation is currently planning to expand passenger rail service between Rutland and Burling- ton. 15

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT TRANSPORTATION Bus Service the Burlington Airport has several air carriers INFRASTRUCTURE with direct service to Boston, New York City, Inter-state bus service is provided throughout Washington, and Chicago, there is no “low- the region. cost” commercial air service provided to the region. Limited local bus service is provided in the region by: Champlain Canal

• Clinton Area Rural Transit (CART) The Champlain Canal, New York’s oldest ca- serves rural Clinton county, shopping nal, is a 60-mile, eleven-lock system, that con- areas, and the city of Plattsburgh. nects the southern end of Lake Champlain (in Most routes are weekday service only. Whitehall) to the Hudson River (in Waterford). A bus to Plattsburgh stops at the The Champlain Canal operates from early May Cumberland Head ferry dock. to mid-November, subject to water and

• Essex County Public Transportation (CHAMP) runs commuter busses for Ticonderoga, Port Henry, Moriah, and Westport on weekdays. Busses will stop on all main routes if hailed.

• Addison Country Transit Resources (ACTR) provides vans run on a fixed route between 8:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., daily. ACTR will meet any groups on request, even dropping walkers at one

location and picking them up at Businesses in Whitehall NY provide services to visitors another. Free of charge, but donations along the Champlain Canal. Courtesy: Washington County Planning Department are appreciated.

• Chittenden County Transportation (CCTA) provides busses, equipped weather conditions. The Canal Recreationway with bike racks, with regularly Commission, established in 1992 by the NYS scheduled service between Burling- Legislature, developed the statewide Canal ton, South Burlington, Shelburne, and Recreationway Plan to operate, preserve and Winooski. renew the Canal System for recreation and economic development. Seasonal permits and • Northwest Vermont Public Transit two-day passes are available for motorized serves the St. Albans, Richford, and vessels, the fees are determined by the size of Swanton. the vessel. Canal users in Whitehall can find facilities for transient and overnight dockage, • Marble Valley Regional Transit comfort station, fresh water, picnic and park (MVRT) provides limited bus service areas, as well as nearby historic sites. A to Castleton, West Haven and Fair voucher system has been recently established Haven. to allow southern lake boaters access to the commercial area of Whitehall (Lock 11) with- • Grand Isle County has no public out fee. Improvements to the Canal system in transportation Whitehall have been identified in the Canal Recreationway Plan and the Champlain Canal Air Scenic Byway Corridor Management Plan.

The Burlington International Airport, as well as several smaller airports in Rutland, Middle- bury and Plattsburgh serve the area. Although 16

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN Ferry Service Lake Champlain Visitors Center will operate TRANSPORTATION the ferry under sail, with auxiliary power if INFRASTRUCTURE Probably the most appealing public transpor- needed, conforming to all modern United tation service in the region is provided by the States Coast Guard regulations. The Chimney ferries. Some people consider a ferry crossing Point Historic Site was recently awarded an En- to be “a poor man’s sail”, but no matter what hancements grant from Vermont to reconstruct time of year it is, it provides a terrific Lake the historic landing to accommodate the sail- Champlain experience. Lake Champlain is a ing ferry. Federal Waterway, which requires ferry service on the Lake to be inspected and qualified by In 1998, Burlington Bikeways initiated a dem- the US Coast Guard. onstration of the feasibility of bike ferry service across the Winooski River. For three weekends, a pontoon boat made round trips every 15 minutes and recorded approximately 1,000 boardings. Considered by many as a successful demonstration, the project received support from VT Governor Howard Dean, MD. Planning and negotiations between the communities involved with the project are ongoing in an effort to link the Burlington Bike- path to the bikes routes in the Town of Colchester, Grand Isle County, and ultimately to Montreal, Québéc. Several more smaller bike and pedestrian ferry crossings through the The Charlotte - Essex ferry provides a delightful lake experience. Courtesy: Mountain Lake PBS Lake Champlain Islands may be required to establish the continuous bike route.

Three crossings of the lake are provided by HISTORIC TRANSPORTATION Lake Champlain Transportation: INFRASTRUCTURE

• Cumberland Head (Plattsburgh), NY - The Lake Champlain region is rich with his- Grand Isle, VT runs year-round and toric transportation infrastructure. Many of 24 hours a day, with bus service to these resources are currently in service, while Plattsburgh. others, such as the Crown Point Road and his- • Burlington, VT - Port Kent, NY runs toric boat landings need to be identified and for the summer season. interpreted. The Lake Champlain Basin Pro- • Charlotte, VT - Essex, NY is seasonal, gram has recently undertaken a project to iden- but will run in the winter, weather tify and interpret the Lake’s historic landings, permitting. and the Crown Point Road Association is dedi- cated to researching and recording the route In addition, the Fort Ticonderoga Ferry, oper- of Vermont’s first thoroughfare. ating since 1759, is a cable-operated ferry, run- ning s between Ticonderoga and Shoreham on a seasonal (May through October) and weather-permitting basis.

In 1997, NY Governor George Pataki provided grant funds for the construction of a replica sailing ferry that will cross between Crown Point, NY and Chimney Point, VT. This ferry will be a replica of the ferry that once crossed in the same location in the early 20th century. The ferry will measure 45’ in length and 15’ in Historic landings, lighthouses, old military roads, covered and truss bridges can be found throughout the region. width, providing a pedestrian and bicycle al- Courtesy: Addison County Regional Planning ternative to the narrow Champlain Bridge. The 17 LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT TRANSPORTATION moting the Champlain region as an interna- INFRASTRUCTURE Public Transportation Actions: tional bicycling destination. As a partner in the Byways planning project, Lake Champlain • Develop package tours merging the Bikeways works closely with local communi- Lake Champlain Bikeways with ties and the Byways Local Advisory Commit- Amtrak and local lodging establish- tees (LAC) to create a network of bicycle theme ments. loops which link the natural, cultural, agricul- • Expand the Bikeways partnership tural, and historic resources of the region, and model with Amtrak to other transpor- help to tell its story. Lake Champlain Bikeways tation modes — Walkways and is an excellent opportunity for our Canadian Waterways. neighbors to get involved with Lake Cham- • Develop a partnership for Lake plain Byways. An informal arrangement ex- Champlain interpretation on the trains ists between Velo Québéc and Lake Champlain and ferries. Bikeways, providing a structure for grass-roots • Support efforts to attract low-cost air planning and cooperative ventures. In Octo- service to the region. ber 1999, Lake Champlain Bikeways was des- • Explore opportunities to link local bus ignated as a Millennium Legacy Trail in recog- service and bike, hike and water nition of its efforts to connect the nation’s cul- theme loops. ture, heritage and communities. • Explore utilizing ferry landings and passenger space for interpretation and visitor information. • Package ferry crossings with other multi-modal transportation packages for the region. • Work with local communities and Lake Champlain Bikeways to establish the smaller bike and pedestrian ferry crossings in the region. • Coordinate activities with the Cham- plain Canal Scenic Byway and the NYS Canal Corporation to implement improvements identified in their plans. Biking along the Lake Champlain waterfront • Explore opportunities to integrate Courtesy: Lake Champlain Bikeways historic transportation infrastructure with Byways interpretation. The Lake Champlain Basin Program prepared “Let’s Bike the Corridor” which is included in the Special Studies section of the Corridor Management Plan. The Lake Champlain Bike- LAKE CHAMPLAIN BIKEWAYS ways Steering Committee provided technical assistance to the document to assure that the Lake Champlain Bikeways, an initiative sup- bicyclists’ interests and needs are addressed in ported by the Lake Champlain Basin Program the Byways Corridor Management Plan and and a number of private and non-profit orga- that recommendations for action will enhance, nizations plays an important role in the Lake rather than hinder, bicycle touring in the re- Champlain Byways planning process. Initiated gion. in 1994, Lake Champlain Bikeways developed a 350 mile bicycle route around the lake in Ver- mont and New York, and through the Upper Richelieu River Valley of Quebec. Lake Cham- plain Bikeways has also taken the lead in pro-

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN TRANSPORTATION Bikeways Actions: INFRASTRUCTURE

• Formalize a partnership arrangement • Establish a permanent bicycle/ between Lake Champlain Bikeways pedestrian sail ferry between Chim- and Lake Champlain Byways which ney Point, VT and Crown Point, NY. focuses on preserving and protecting • Develop a strategy to complete the the existing high quality bicycling Lake Champlain Bikeways Network experience currently found in the of theme loops. Champlain Valley. • Develop a bicycle safety awareness • Advocate for bicyclists’ interests in the and education program in the Cham- preservation and protection of the plain Valley. Champlain Valley’s scenic resources. • Develop an aggressive marketing • Convene a stakeholders meeting to strategy for Lake Champlain Bike- generate interest and commitment in ways. continuing and transforming the Lake • Develop collaborative ways to market Champlain Bikeways organization. and promote the Lake Champlain • Develop a business plan and funding Valley for bicycle tourism. strategy to include: advertising sales, • Continue to work with private compa- publicl support, product sales, grants, nies as well as local communities and sponsorships, licensing, etc. non-profits in generating information • Conduct a series of long and short on Lake Champlain Bikeways. fund-raising tours along the Lake • Create a single brochure that high- Champlain Bikeways Network to lights the Champlain Bikeway and all celebrate the new Millennium. of its connecting theme loops. • Organize an annual around-the-lake • Hire a full-time employee for the Lake world-class bike touring event. Champlain Bikeways Clearinghouse. • Identify specific task groups to • Continue to identify a variety of implement this plan and enlist natural, cultural and historical themes appropriate representation. in creating unique and edifying theme • Work with public transportation loops of the Lake Champlain Bike- agencies to develop basic guidelines ways Network. and standards to enhance the bicycle- • Work with natural, cultural and friendliness of the Lake Champlain historical heritage sites on the value of Bikeways Network. bicyclists traveling along established • Develop a research and public aware- theme loops. ness program for advocacy and • Develop interpretative signing along support to all key “publics.” theme loops of the Lake Champlain • Develop a viable, ongoing small Bikeways Network. grants program to implement facilities • Sell advertisement space on the Lake for touring bicyclists. Champlain Bikeways web site and • Develop and implement a Lake services directory, as well as other Champlain Bikeways directional appropriate Lake Champlain Bike- signing plan. ways promotional materials. • Identify partnering opportunities to • Develop a brochure for businesses on facilitate multi-modal transportation how to develop or expand their connections with bicycle routes of the business with innovative offerings for Lake Champlain Bikeways Network. bicyclists (i.e. bicycle-friendly prod- • Establish a permanent Burlington/ ucts and services). Colchester/South Hero bicycle and • Create a Lake Champlain Bikeways pedestrian connection across the flag that businesses can purchase and Winooski River and the Malletts Bay fly as an added measure to attract causeway. touring bicyclists. 19

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT TRANSPORTATION LAKE CHAMPLAIN WALKWAYS will connect Lake Champlain’s eastern (Ver- INFRASTRUCTURE mont) and western (New York) shores through The Lake Champlain Byways Steering Com- a harmonious blend of wildlands, working mittee formed a Task Group to develop and landscapes, rural villages, and provide multi- complete the work element for the non-motor- modal transportation connections. ized study component of the CMP. The Task Group hired a consulting firm to conducted a Work elements in the pilot project will include: study to inventory and assess the existing hiking trails, village walking tours, cross-country • Assess the feasibility and address the and snowshoe trails on public lands, or lands issues related to a pilot segment of the open for public use, within the Byways corri- Lake Champlain Walkways network, dor. A specific task of the study was to iden- including examining existing back tify opportunities to integrate these trails with roads and public trail infrastructure the Lake Champlain Bikeways routes, the Pad- for appropriateness; and dlers Trail, and multi-modal transportation (rail, ferry, bus) facilities. The consultant’s re- • NPSR&TP guidance on related trail port, “Lake Champlain Byways Hike & Walk development issues including partner- Study” is included in the Special Studies sec- ships with landowners, right-of-way tion of the Corridor Management Plan. agreements, and liability.

From this study, it was recognized thatthe ex- Success will be met with this project when the tensive network of lesser-traveled roads pro- affected stakeholders agree to a route that can vides a unique opportunity to create a network be publicized and marketed as a “village to of walking routes within the corridor. It is en- village” walking route in the region. A visitor visioned that these routes would use the could come to this region, have a meaningful backroads and town trails to connect the com- experience of the local resources, be provided munities around the lake region, creating a with many opportunities to contribute to the “village to village” experience for the visitor. local economy, while not compounding the automobile congestion that is traditionally associated with tourism.

The development of these routes will utilize the planning and development model used by Lake Champlain Bikeways to solicit local involvement for route identification and business development. Interpretive guides for the user will provide maps, descriptions of the historic, natural and cultural resources along the route, and information about the local businesses that provide services for Walkway user. The routes The region has many hiking and walking trails available. will integrate the existing hiking and walking Credit: Gary Randorf facilities and transportation links between VT and NY via the ferries and bridges. Local busi- To initiate this work, the National Park Service nesses that should be involved in route devel- Rivers and Trails Program (NPSR&TP) has re- opment include lodging and dining establish- cently agreed to provide technical assistance ments, as well as local outfitters and guides. for a pilot project. This project is the first seg- As Canadian communities become involved ment of a network throughout the two-state, with Lake Champlain Byways, they can add bi-national region: “Mid-lake Waterwalk”. to the Walkways network. During the route The pilot segment will originate at the development, an assessment of the infrastruc- Westport, NY railroad station, go through the ture will be undertaken, and needs for rest ar- hamlet of Essex, NY, cross Lake Champlain via eas, water, parking, and access public transpor- the ferry to Charlotte, VT and proceed to the tation will be identified and included as part Shelburne, VT railroad station. This segment of this Corridor Management Plan. 20

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN Champlain Waterways are routes for boaters TRANSPORTATION Walkways Actions: that connect the lakeshore to the lake’s streams INFRASTRUCTURE and rivers up to the first non-navigable point • Organize hikes and walks around (dam or waterfall). The Waterways could in- transportation links between VT and clude the Lake Champlain Paddlers Trail, NY(ferries and bridges). Develop links which connects sites along the lake that are ac- between VT and NY lodging, outfit- cessible to the public and the historic landings. ters, guides, restaurants, etc. Waterways is in the concept stage, it is antici- • Develop an ongoing relationship pated that these routes will be developed in a between the database manager and similar manner to Bikeways and Walkways, the towns throughout the Basin, and will have local interpretation developed maintain database accuracy. for the user. Implementation of Lake Cham- • Expand the database coverage of the plain Waterways should be a partnership be- walks and trails to Canada. tween Lake Champlain Byways, Lake Cham- • Project the NY & VT Walkways plain Basin Program and the Lake Champlain mapping data sets into one, add detail Committee, as well as other local groups. as needed including additional trail and walking resources as they develop. Waterways Actions: • Develop a means to assess trail infrastructure (i.e: adequate parking • Integrate boating into the multi- or maintenance routines) to support modal transportation network of Lake additional visitation. Champlain Byways Corridor by • Locate all trails that do not have creating routes that connect significant brochures or maps and decide which sites along the lakeshore, as well as to should have such materials created. the Lake’s rivers and streams. Consider grouping certain trails to • Improve and expand a diversity of develop linkages between individual public access to the Lake. trails, village walks, and the support- • Develop interpretive trails for boaters. ing resources of the area. • Expand the underwater historic • Print a Lake Champlain Byways guide preserves program, provide public to the hiking and walking resources, information about the Lake Cham- integrate relevant businesses into the plain Underwater Historic Preserves brochure/guidebook. System. • Improve public access and transporta- • Improve existing, and develop new, tion to sites. boating and non-boating access sites on Lake Champlain. • Develop the Lake Champlain Historic Landings Trail and other natural and LAKE CHAMPLAIN WATERWAYS cultural heritage interpretive trails that link unique and significant sites The Lake Champlain Basin Program drafted on Lake Champlain. the document “Lake Champlain Waterways”, • Develop the Lake Champlain Pad- which is included in Special Studies compo- dlers’ Trail. nent of the Corridor Management Plan. Uti- • Develop a comprehensive guide to all lizing the recreation research done for Oppor- types of public access opportunities tunities for Action, the plan identifies recre- on Lake Champlain and its tributaries. ational opportunities on the lake that have the • Establish centralized locations for the potential to be improved, enhanced, or pro- dissemination of information on year- moted, with a special emphasis on its ability round use of recreational, natural, to serve a transportation function. Inventories cultural and historic resources in the and recommendations for specific water-based Lake Champlain Basin. recreational projects on and along Lake Cham- plain were updated and expanded. Lake 21

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAY RESOURCES

Cultural INTRINSIC QUALITIES Examples of our heritage or resources that were important in the course of Lake Champlain Byways identified and de- human events. Examples may include fined six resource categories as the intrinsic churches, museums, colleges/schools, qualities that are recognized in the Corridor festival sites, or other civic resources. Management Plan: Sites or areas of ethnic importance and structures or landscaping that possess Natural artistic merit or represent achieve- Found in unusual geologic formations, ments in architecture, engineering, topography, climate, hydrologic technology, design or scientific features (e.g., streams, rivers, lakes, research and development are pos- wetlands and oceans), wildlife, and sible resources. habitats for rare or endangered species. Working Landscape Examples include landscapes such as Scenic those related to farming, forestry, Includes visually appealing natural mineral extraction, or working and cultural landscape elements that waterfronts. Sites or areas of impor- offer a heightened or memorable tance to the development of the visual experience. Some of the industries and areas where the potential elements that contribute to landforms strongly influenced a scenic values include water and development pattern are resources. landform features, landscape compo- Structures or landscaping that are sitions and effects, vegetation pat- particularly representative of their terns, structures, and roadway charac- period, or represent achievements in teristics. technology or the development in agriculture are possible resources. Historic Sites, districts, structures, artifacts, or The National program recognizes archaeologi- other evidences of human activities cal resources as an intrinsic quality, but since that represent our history. They may there are very few archaeological sites in the be places where significant historic region available for public use, they were in- events occurred, or associated with cluded with historic resources. an important personality. Areas where the landscape or landforms influenced an event as well as historic roadways are also potential resources. Also included are archaeological resource such as evidence of farms, hunting, or gathering areas, burial sites, artifacts and building remnants.

Recreation Both active and passive recreation features, such as state and local parks, reforestation areas, hiking trails, water access points, bike and pedestrian trails, snowshoe, and cross-country Courtesy: Chittenden County Regional Planning

ski areas. Some could argue that the Working Landscape is cultural, but since it is a “quality” of the region that is so pervasive and critical to maintaining the scenic qualities of the region, it was 22 found worthy of its own recognition.

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN INVENTORY OF RESOURCES the Lake Champlain region, the data should LAKE be stored in latitude and longitude (lat/lon) C HAMPLAIN These qualities were inventoried by creating a units. Each state’s coordinate system can be BYWAY database of the activities, sites, and resources converted to lat/lon, but coordinate conversion RESOURCES that exist in the region. Local groups worked is a specialized task that is not always avail- to help collect data at the local level, starting able to local planners and graphic artists. with the data that is already within local town plans, tourism offices, State recreation data- bases and Basin Program files. Additional in- Inventory Actions: formation was sought from the contacts in the Local Advisory Committees (LACs). The resources included in the database had to meet • The collection and interpretation of at least one of the following criteria (many sites the resource inventory should con- met both): tinue to be done at the local level. Each county’s LAC will identifying a • Proximity to the lake - The Lake partner to maintain their component Champlain Maritime Museum is located of the database. along the lake. • To ease the burden on map producers and users it is recommended that a • Function or experience - The Dead central repository be designated to Creek Wildlife Area is a functional collect and catalog geographic data component of the lake’s natural resource sets that pertain to the Lake Cham- base. plain Basin. This data should be converted to lat/lon to provide for This database includes information about each maintenance of the multi-state data entry to identify growth opportunities and sets. limitations; programs, services and facilities; • Ensure that geographic data is com- and the management entity. All the data is patible with hardware that is utilized coded to facilitate integration with digital map- in local planning offices. ping (GIS). The database can be utilized by the LACs to identify the resources, gaps and needs within the region, the possibilities and limitations for Byway promotion and enhancement, as well as to develop plans for the interpretation or management of the resources. Chambers, tour promoters, and other tourism planners may find the data useful for theme tour development, interactive kiosks, a internet/website, toll-free tourism information servers, or other information sources. In addition, this data can be used to provide recommendations for management of the transportation infrastructure, and coordinate existing organizations to meet the goals and objectives established by the LACs.

GIS mapping can be used to develop mapping products for planning and interpretive products for the region. Currently Vermont and New York develop and maintain geographic data in their respective state plane coordinate systems, which are not directly compatible with each other. In order to develop and maintain a set of geographic data (GIS) relevant to 23

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT LAKE THE SCENIC COMPOSITION OF THE scape character types. In the Lake Champlain C HAMPLAIN LAKE CHAMPLAIN LANDSCAPE region there are two major types, each of which BYWAY have distinctive units: RESOURCES Early in the Byways planning process, it was recognized that the Lake Champlain region is • Shoreline Character — This group scenic. includes beaches, river mouths, bluffs, coves, peninsulas, islands. This type In fact, many people described the scenic qual- is generally includes areas within ity of the Lake Champlain region as that by 1,000 feet of the lake, or the area which others are compared. A qualitative between the lake and the first signifi- evaluation of the scenic resource was deter- cant change in landform. The shore- mined to be of little value. Instead it was de- line character is most visible from the cided to identify why the area is scenic, and lake. look for non-regulatory ways to keep the re- • Inland Character — This group gion looking like it does. includes open lowlands, forested lowlands, rivers and mountains. The The Lake Champlain region is composed of inland character type is generally the four major landscape elements2: area between the shoreline type and the highest point of the surrounding • Landform — The landform is the landforms. foundation of the landscape upon which water and landuse are located. For the purposes of this project, the major com- • Water — Water is credited by many as munities of the region have been classified by a major contributor to a high-quality their dominant character of their scenic com- scenic experience because of its position: dramatic changeable nature and views that are created by large bodies of • Shoreline Character — Rouses Point, water. Plattsburgh, Essex, Westport, Port • Land use — The diversity of the Henry, Whitehall, Burlington, region’s landuse has a significant Colchester, South Hero, Grand Isle, impact on the visual landscape. North Hero, and Alburg. Agricultural uses of the land has dominated much of the region for • Inland Character — Champlain, over two hundred years, and provides Chazy, Beekmantown, Peru, a sharp contrast to the forested Keeseville, AuSable, Chesterfield, hillsides and mountain slopes of the Willsboro, Moriah, Crown Point, Adirondacks and Green Mountains . Ticonderoga, Putnam, Dresden, Other major land uses found in the Hampton, Granville, Fair Haven, region include forestry, mining, Poultney, Castleton, West Haven, commercial and residential develop- Hubbardton, Benson, Orwell, ment. Shoreham, Whiting, Cornwall, • Vegetation — Vegetation can provide a Middlebury, Weybridge, Bridport, sense of health and vitality to the Addison, Panton, Vergennes, landscape, and often provides transi- Ferrisburgh, Charlotte, Shelburne, tions between different land uses. South Burlington, Winooski, Milton, Vegetation also has a changeable Georgia, St. Albans, Swanton, and nature, which is most evident with the Highgate change of seasons, but also as the vegetative type matures. This change- Lake Champlain Byways can provide oppor- ability contributes to the diversity of tunities to experience all of the landscape types the region’s landscape. as they travel through the region. By utilizing various modes of transportation, the visitor can These elements combine to create distinctive vary the extent and diversity of the visual ex- visual images which can be identified as land- perience of the Lake Champlain region. 24

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN The most influential aspect of the scenic qual- Working Landscape LAKE ity of the Lake Champlain region is the fact that Agriculture C HAMPLAIN it is a working landscape. In an effort to keep Forestry BYWAY the working landscape viable, an ag-tourism Mining RESOURCES initiative has been outlined for implementation Quarrying throughout the region (see Spin-off Projects in Transportation the Regional Component and Addison County Working Waterfronts Component of the CMP). Lighthouses

INTREPRETATION Many of the sites and Byway resources in the region need improvements to improve the visi- The theme for Lake Champlain Byways “The tor experience or protect the resource from Four Lives of Lake Champlain” can be inter- damage or deterioration. Specific sites and preted and experienced through linking the projects are identified in each county’s com- region’s sites with sub-themes of the Intrinsic ponent of the Corridor Management Plan. Resources: Throughout the planning process for Lake Champlain Byways concern was expressed by Historic Resources communities that there needs to be an aware- Native American ness of the region’s carrying capacity for tour- Seven Years War (French and Indian) ism. Although some sites are under-promoted, Revolutionary War an effort needs to be made to steward the com- War of 1812 munities and resources that make the region Architectural heritage so special. In addition, there is concern that Waterfronts and landings there is a limited infrastructure not only for Underground Railroad roadways, lodging, and amenities, but also in Exploration and early settlement the capabilities for communities to implement the actions identified in the Corridor Manage- Natural ment Plan. Geology Water bodies and features Wildlife Intrinsic Resources Actions: Wetlands • Facilitate the development of theme Cultural packages that link the Byway re- Visual arts and crafts sources for visitors to experience the Performing arts entire region. Education Native American heritage • In order to assure the sustainability of Genealogy the Byway resources, assess the French heritage carrying capacity of the region’s Industrial development communities and resources prior to Inventions and technology the advent of increased Byway Environmental conservation and land marketing and promotion. Identify stewardship the capabilities and capacity of Commerce providers of infrastructure, and Hamlets, villages and cities coordinate with marketing plans and timeline for implementation of Recreation infrastructure improvements. Fishing Boating Biking Hiking and Walking Hunting Camping 25

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT ECONOMIC STUDY: CÉLÉBRATION CHAMPLAIN!

A specific work effort of the Lake Champlain stories and enabling multi-county/bi- Byways project was to identify specific issues state/multi-national action; and tasks to foster economic development in • articulate a comprehensive regional the region. To assist in that work effort, an Eco- identity; nomic Development Task Group (“Task • extend over a period of years; Group”) was established that represents vari- • appeal to a variety of markets (cul- ous public and private economic development tural, heritage, and Ag-tourism, and interests. To initiate their work, they reviewed outdoor recreation enthusiasts — the 1997 Cultural Heritage tourism marketing bike, hike, paddle, fish, etc.); study prepared for the Lake Champlain Basin • build on current planning and devel- Program which stated: opment efforts (marketing programs, special events, and initiatives such as Lake Champlain has a fascinating history that the Lake Champlain Basin Program evolved from the importance of the lake as a and Triangle of Excellence); waterway, but political boundaries have en- • stimulate collaborative community couraged tourism promotion on a local, state/ economic development throughout regional basis while discouraging promotion the region; and evoke regional leader- of the entire basin. Maps tend to stop where ship and stewardship. other states or regions begin... Taken as a whole, the {region} has rich, but under-pro- THE STRATEGY: moted cultural heritage resources. It has no A CELEBRATION OF THE LAKE AND RIVER regional organization, identity, or promotion budget.3 During the stakeholder meetings, a specific strategy emerged that meets all of the above: Recognizing the need to unify region, the Task Group hired a consulting firm to help lead a A two-state, multi-national regional cel- lake-wide effort for economic development, to ebration of the Lake and River begin- facilitate an effort to establish a regional iden- ning with the 400th anniversary of tity, and to create a partnership approach to Champlain’s arrival to the Richelieu market the Lake as a regional destination. River in 1603 and culminating with the During October and November, eleven “stake- 400th anniversary of Champlain’s arrival holder input meetings” were convened to Lake Champlain in 1609. throughout the region. During these sessions, a wide variety of regional interests worked to The celebration will: identify opportunities for: • build local appreciation for the • an appealing identity for the Lake region’s history and assets; Champlain region; • develop an identity for the two-state • strategies to imprint the identity on multi-national region; the minds of potential markets; • unify the region’s communities ; • assuring that visitors experience the • and leave a legacy of community and region’s identity with a lasting economic development for the region. positive impression; and • establishing a regional partnership to It is envisioned that collaborative efforts within carry these ideas forward. and between all communities will be targeted to community and economic growth while From what was heard at the meetings, a set of sustaining the natural setting that makes the criteria was established for an effective regional region so special. These efforts, along with a strategy: coordinated multi-year regional marketing strategy will imprint the identity of the region • support the full region by telling all in the minds of visitors. 26

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN The Lake Champlain - Richelieu River form that allowed additional ideas and sug- ECONOMIC Celebration Summit gestions to be compiled and added to the plan- STUDY: ning process. The work at the Retreat not only CÉLÉBRATION The Study Task Group authorized the conven- developed a strategic framework for the cel- CHAMPLAIN! ing of the “Lake Champlain-Richelieu River ebration, but also gave a name for the event Celebration Summit” to gather public input for that will have meaning to all residents of the a multi-year strategy for the celebration. With region— “Célébration Champlain!”. A docu- about 70 people from New York, Vermont and ment A Strategic Framework for Célébration Quebec in attendance, the agenda included Champlain! 2003-2009 (included in Special presentations and interactive work sessions on Studies section of the Corridor Management three aspects of the proposed multi-year Plan) was prepared as the framework for a project: strategy to unify and rejuvenate the communities of the Lake Champlain region. The plan • quality-of-life programming that contains five sections: might be implemented; • community and economic develop- • Guiding Principles ment activities that might be under- • Programs and Events taken; • Community Development and • marketing strategies that would reach Revitalization out to resident and visitor markets. • Marketing and Packaging • Implementation Structure The day concluded with each group present- ing a summary of its discussions and a plenary In both 1909 and 1959 major celebrations have discussion of possible next steps. All in all, the been held in the Champlain Valley to com- Summit was a spirited event, with participants memorate the anniversary of the discovery of genuinely engaged in the process. They not Lake Champlain. Both events were planned only helped flesh-out the Celebration concept, as bi-state initiatives, with State and Federal but they manifested a sense of excitement that funding, primarily focused on a week of events the Celebration strategy might really be able marking the anniversary. However, from 1999 to bring together constituencies, leverage re- to 2009, it is anticipated that “Célébration Cham- sources and create tangible results for the re- plain!” will act as the catalyst to unite and region. juvenate the communities of the Lake Cham- plain region. Rather than a “fireworks” com- A Working Retreat memoration, it is envisioned to have the 400th anniversary of Champlain’s arrival to the re- From the initial strategic framework for the gion be marked by revitalized communities, a Celebration idea that was developed at the regional identity of two-states and two-nations, Summit, a collaborative working retreat of 15 a healthy Lake environment and an outstand- planners from within the region met to develop ing quality of life. Along with other local and a concise case statement and strategy for regional strategies, “Célébration Champlain!” implementation relating to the four compo- will serve as the organizing “vehicle” to imple- nents of the Celebration Strategy: ment the actions identified in the Lake Cham- plain Byways Corridor Management Plan. • Programs and Events; • Community and Economic Revitaliza- In that implementation of the plan will involve tion; a bi-state and bi-national initiative, it is ex- • Marketing and Product Packaging, pected that Federal involvement will be nec- and essary to establish a public/private partnership • Organizational Capacity. to prepare, secure funding for, and execute the plan for “Célébration Champlain!” An informational newsletter about the concept and Summit meeting was distributed to over a thousand individuals and organizations in the region. Included in the newsletter was a 27

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT INSTITUTIONAL & ORGANIZATIONAL CAPABILITIES OF THE REGION

LAND USE POLICIES A Historical Perspective4

The Lake Champlain region has several Re- • The International Joint Commission (IJC) gional and State plans in effect, which are con- was created between the United States and sidered to be effective for local land use poli- Great Britain through the Boundary Water cies: Treaty of 1909. Although not active since 1981, it remains a viable institution to which federal • Opportunities for Action: An Evolving governments have recourse to resolve disputes. Plan for the Future of the Lake Champlain The IJC is not directly responsive to state or Basin local governments. • Quebec’s Valley of the Forts • Adirondack Park State Land Master Plan • The Interstate Commission on the Lake • Adirondack Park Land Use and Develop- Champlain Basin (INCOCHAMP) began in ment Plan 1949 as a joint agreement between NY and VT • VT Division for Historic to “integrate their efforts and insure that the Preservation’s Comprehensive State basin would be developed in an environmen- Preservation Plan tally sound way and in a spirit of cooperation.” • State Comprehensive Outdoor Recre- Initially an informal agreement, it operated ation Plans without staff or appropriations until 1966 when • State and Regional transportation it became embodied in the statutes of New York plans (N.Y. ECL 21-1101 et seq.) and Vermont (10 • Regional and Municipal plans V.S.A. 184 et seq.).

For the Byways project, a non-regulatory, in- The impetus for formalizing the agreement was centive based approach has driven the devel- for the celebration in 1959 of the 350th anni- opment of the Corridor Management Plan. versary of the discovery of Lake Champlain. Therefore it was considered not necessary to Established as an interstate commission, with include land use policies and plans as a tool no formal federal involvement in its establish- for implementation. ment, it was modeled after INCODEL the pre- cursor to the Delaware River Basin Compact. POLITICAL JURISDICTIONS Through collaborative committees, INCOCHAMP addressed diverse topics: wa- The Lake Champlain Byway region consists of terways, marinas and boating, fish and wild- the United States and Canada, two states, one life, forestry, industrial development, historic province, eight counties, and fifty-four towns sites, mineral resources, resorts, recreation, all with a direct relationship to Lake Cham- tourist travel, pollution and water resources. plain. During the development of this plan, nearly two hundred non-profits and organiza- Following the anniversary celebration, tions in the Lake Champlain region have been INCOCHAMP focused on designing a com- identified to be active in tourism, recreation, mission with stronger management and coor- cultural & historic preservation and environ- dination mandates — CHAMPCO. mental issues. The multiple jurisdictions that CHAMPCO was to coordinate local, regional, come into play in a region as complex as Lake state, interstate, federal and international plan- Champlain provides many challenges for a ning and landuse practices and to advocate for management structure. In an effort to avoid aesthetic protection. Although both NY and “re-inventing the wheel” several bi-state and VT passed legislation to create CHAMPCO, bi-national institutional agreements were sum- they could not agree on the exact language. marized and considered in the development The NY legislation was vetoed by the Gover- of the Corridor Management Plan. nor, and CHAMPCO never came into exist- ence. With the failure of CHAMPCO, INCOCHAMP lost its credibility as an effec- 28

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN tive agency in the region, and met its demise CURRENT REGIONAL INSTITUTIONAL & shortly thereafter5. INCOCHAMP was offi- MANAGEMENT AND PROGRAMS ORGANIZATIONAL cially repealed in Vermont in 1990, but has CAPABILITIES never been repealed in New York. • The Adirondack Park was created in 1892, OF THE REGION now almost 6 million acres in size, the largest • The New England River Basin Commis- state park in the contiguous United States. The sion (NERBC) was established in the 1970’s State of New York Adirondack Park Agency from the Federal Water Resources Planning Act (APA) was created in 1971 to encourage wise of 1965, entirely funded from federal sources. land use planning for the western and south- The NERBC conducted studies of many of the ern region of the Adirondacks. The agency lake issues, culminating in a five-year plan in strives to balance environmental protection 1979. However, a lack of local commitment, with economic development to strike a balance legislative ties to the plan, and loss of federal between the diverse interests within the Park. funding resulted in a lack of follow-through The Agency was directed to develop a master on the plans. plan which sets policy for the management of the State lands and a land use and develop- • The Champlain Adirondack Biosphere Re- ment plan for the private lands. Since 1892, a serve (CABR), created in 1989 as part of the “Blue Line” has been used to delineate the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Park’s Forest Preserve and intermixed private Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Man and lands. All of Essex County, as well as portions Biosphere Program. This Reserve is unique in of Washington and Clinton Counties, exclud- that it includes not only a large natural area, ing the hamlets, fall under the jurisdiction of the Adirondack Park and Lake Champlain wa- the Adirondack Park Agency. tersheds (excluding Quebec), it also includes a large human population. Adirondack Park Agency PO Box 99, Ray Brook, NY 12977 • The New England Interstate Water Pollu- tion Control Commission (NEIWPCC) was • The Lake Champlain Committee (LCC) is created in 1947 with both Vermont and New a non-profit organization, licensed to lobby, York as members. Its emphasis is on interstate which includes members from VT, NY and rivers, and is largely funded through the En- Quebec. Founded in 1963 to fight a proposal vironmental Protection Agency (EPA). to turn Lake Champlain into a commercial NEIWPCC currently plays an important role waterway, it lobbied for the Special Designa- in the region as the financial manager of the tion Act in 1990 that created the Lake Cham- Lake Champlain Basin Program, as it is able to plain Management Conference. The LCC is receive federal funds and distribute them to active in the Basin addressing water pollution, the states. recreation, tourism and education functions.

• The Lake Champlain Fish and Wildlife Lake Champlain Committee Management Cooperative was established in 14 South Williams Street, Burlington, VT 1973 between the States of New York, Vermont 05401-3400 and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Still in effect today, the purpose is to conserve and • The Lake Champlain Management Con- enhance anadromous fish. Work is conducted ference was created by Congress through the under a Memorandum of Understanding. Lake Champlain Special Designation Act of Under this cooperative agreement, a number 1990. The Conference had participants from of fish and wildlife studies have been com- VT, NY and Quebec, and conducted a number pleted as well as cooperative activities for nui- of studies related to the water quality, natural sance and non-native flora and fauna. Al- resources, recreation and cultural resources, though not a signatory to the agreement, there and economic issues in the Lake Champlain is communication and coordination with Que- Basin. From those studies, the plan Opportu- bec. nities for Action: An Evolving Plan for the Future of the Lake Champlain Basin and strategy for implementation was developed. The Lake 29

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT INSTITUTIONAL & Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) was estab- • The Lake Champlain Research Consortium ORGANIZATIONAL lished to coordinate the activities envisioned was founded in 1991 by the University of Ver- CAPABILITIES by the Special Designation Act. As a federally mont, Plattsburgh State University of New OF THE REGION funded initiative, it works in partnership with York, St. Michael’s College, Trinity College, various agencies for implementation, and con- Castleton State College, Johnson State College tinues to lead Lake Champlain activities today. and Middlebury College. The purpose of the The Basin Program is operating under a Memo- Consortium is to advance basic research and randum of Understanding that was signed in scholarship of the Lake Champlain ecosystem 1988 by the Governors of New York and Ver- and related issues; to provide opportunities for mont and the Premier of Quebec. The LCBP is training and education of students on issues overseen by a Steering Committee which in- related to Lake Champlain; to aid in a dissemi- cludes representatives from the three jurisdic- nation of information gathered through re- tions. In addition there is a Technical Advi- search endeavors; to implement a program to sory Committee, Citizen Advisory Committees strengthen scientific research and higher edu- for each state and province, as well as several cation in the States of Vermont and New York staff positions. related to Lake Champlain; and to further these purposes through a spirit of cooperation and Lake Champlain Basin Program common commitment among institutions of PO Box 204, Grand Isle, VT 05458 higher education, state government and other interested parties. • The New York State Canal Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of the New York Lake Champlain Research Consortium, State Thruway Authority is responsible for the Middlebury College Middlebury, VT 05753 four canal systems in Upstate New York. The Canal Recreationway Commission was estab- • The Adirondack North Country Associa- lished in 1992 by the NYS Legislature. The tion (ANCA) is an independent, not-for-profit Commission developed the statewide Canal organization that engages in a wide range of Recreationway Plan to operate, preserve and activities designed to increase business devel- renew the Canal System for recreation and eco- opment and improve the quality of life for the nomic development. 14 county region north of the Mohawk River in Upstate New York. Current activity areas NYS Canal Corporation include: tourism, transportation, recreation, 200 Southern Blvd., Albany, NY 12209 agriculture, economic development, forestry and natural resources, craft development, edu- • The Triangle of Excellence is a regional cation and museums, rural resources, health symposium of political and business leaders and human services, and international coop- from Plattsburgh NY, Burlington VT, and Saint- eration. ANCA promotes ten NYS Scenic By- Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. Initiated in 1996 ways in their region, including the Champlain by Member of Parliament, Claude Bachand, the Trail. ANCA has taken a major role for imple- purpose of the symposium is to strengthen ties menting the New York State Scenic Byways of cooperation and mutual assistance, thereby program, including the administration of the making the geographic region function as a Lake Champlain Byways Corridor Manage- focused, united and cooperative region. The ment Plan. annual symposiums, held in 1998 and 1999, have focused on five primary sectors: manu- Adirondack North Country Association facturing, sales and services, arts and culture, 183 Broadway, Saranac Lake, NY 12983 higher education, tourism and conventions. symposiums have been. • The New York State Heritage Areas Sys- tem is a public-private partnership to develop, Triangle of Excellence preserve, and promote the state’s cultural and c/o Claude Bachand, député Circonscription natural resources as an expression of the state’s de Saint-Jean heritage. Originally named the Urban Cultural 100, rue Richelieu, bureau 105, Saint-Jean- Park System, the program was created by 1982 sur-Richelieu, Quebec J3B 6X3 legislation and amended in 1994 to add re- 30

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN gional heritage areas. Current New York State mittee has been established to oversee the de- INSTITUTIONAL & Heritage Areas include Whitehall and nearby velopment of the corridor management plan ORGANIZATIONAL Saratoga Springs, Hudson-Mohawk, and the and to pursue state designation of the Byway CAPABILITIES Mohawk Valley Heritage Corridor. from New York State. The draft Champlain OF THE REGION Canal Byway Enhancement Plan identifies ac- New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and tions to participate with Célébration Champlain! Historic Preservation and coordinate with Lake Champlain Byways. The Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire The proposed route for the Champlain Canal State Plaza Byway would utilize the portion of US Route Agency Building 1, Albany, NY 12238 4 from Ft. Edward to Whitehall that is currently designated as the Champlain Trail. OTHER RELATED INITIATIVES Saratoga Chamber of Commerce • The Seaway Trail is a 454-mile National 28 Clinton Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 Scenic Byway paralleling Lake Erie, the Niagara River, Lake Ontario, and the St. • The Route 73 Scenic Byway recently com- Lawrence River. Originally established in 1978 pleted a corridor management plan for the 30- to promote regional economic development in mile NYS Designated Scenic Byway between the ten-county region through tourism, it re- Exit 30 of the Adirondack Northway (I-87) and ceived national Scenic Byway designation in Lake Placid, NY. The Byway utilizes NYS 1996. Seaway Trail, Inc., which received an Route 73 and a small portion of US Route 9, initial State appropriation through the entirely within Essex county. This roadway is NYSOPH&HP in 1986, still receives State and considered the “gateway” to the Adirondack County funding as well as membership dues. Park, serving as a major linkage between the The organization has completed several Lake Champlain region to the “High Peaks” projects including an inventory of tourism re- region of the Adirondacks. The plan consists sources, comprehensive tourism development of actions for visitor experience, access man- plan, and a biennial action plan. Through the agement, and tourism & promotion. New York State Scenic Byways program, as well as other grant sources, the Seaway Trail Adirondack Park Agency has implemented a Trail-wide signage and in- PO Box 86, Ray Brook, NY 12977 formation system, eight trail-wide themes for interpretation, and several booklets and bro- • Vermont Route 125 was designated as a chures on the Seaway Trail resources. The east- State Scenic road in 1980 in recognition of its ern end of the Seaway Trail is Rooseveltown, scenic and historic qualities. In 1996 a corridor NY, about 65 miles from Rouses Point, NY us- management plan (CMP) was developed for ing NYS Route 37 and US Route 11. VT RT 125, which addressed the maintenance and management issues of the roadway and Seaway Trail, Inc. right-of-way. No promotion or recreation en- Madison Barracks, 109 Barracks Drive, hancement activities were identified in the Sackets Harbor, NY 13685 CMP. In 1997, the State of Vermont adopted the Vermont Byway program, which • The Champlain Canal Byway is a current “grandfathered” the State Scenic Road as a scenic byway planning project to develop a cor- designated Vermont Byway. The 15 mile ridor management plan for a NYS Scenic By- stretch between East Middlebury and Ripton, way of the Champlain Canal and US Route 4 VT connects the Lake Champlain region to VT from Whitehall to Waterford. The byway fo- Route 100, which runs along the length of the cuses on the historic, cultural and recreation Green Mountains. resources of the Canal between Lake Cham- plain and the Hudson River. A preliminary Addison County Regional study of the resources and management needs Planning Commission was prepared by the Urban and Regional Plan- 79 Court Street, Middlebury, VT 05753 ning Program of the State University of New York at Albany in 1997. A local Steering Com- 31

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT INSTITUTIONAL & • The Military Trail, Olympic Trail, and the resources of the Champlain Valley merit ORGANIZATIONAL Colonial Trail are three NYS Scenic Byways, additional NPS involvement in their preserva- CAPABILITIES adjacent to the Champlain Trail, currently pro- tion and interpretation. The evaluation, called OF THE REGION moted by the Adirondack North Country As- a Special Resource Study, used NPS guidelines sociation (ANCA). ANCA is currently work- and interim criteria to determine whether a ing with local communities to develop Corri- national heritage corridor, or some other op- dor Management Plans for these trails. Op- tion, would best serve the needs of the Cham- portunities to coordinate promotion and mar- plain Valley. keting can be developed during the planning process for these trails. Three primary interpretive themes represent- ing the important cultural and natural re- Adirondack North Country Association sources in the region were identified during 183 Broadway, Saranac Lake, NY 12983 the study: (1) the “Making of Nations” theme emphasizes the immense strategic importance • The Valley of the Forts is a trail extending south from Sorel on the St. Lawrence River to Lake Champlain in the United States. Cana- dian sites for the Trail include Fort Chambly, Fort St. Jean, and Fort Lennox; providing initial opportunities for cooperative efforts with Lake Champlain Byways.

Parcs Canada

1899, Perigny Blvd. Development Corporation

Chambly, PQ J3L 4C3 CANADA Courtesy: Lakes Region Marketing

• La Route Verte is a network of bicycle paths, paved shoulders, and back roads through Que- bec with links to other Canadian Provinces and of Lake Champlain and its connecting water- the United States. Managed by Vélo Québec, ways during past military actions; (2) the “Cor- an informal partnership has been established ridor of Commerce” theme focuses on the criti- between La Route Verte and Lake Champlain cal importance of transportation on the lakes Bikeways to connect the bicycle networks. and rivers in the development of industry; and Through this partnership, Amtrak rack cards (3) the “Magnet for Tourism” theme encom- and cross-border bicyclist signs between Que- passes the valley’s long history of tourism and bec and New York were installed in 1999. its diverse vacation areas. The “Making of Nations” theme is considered to be of outstand- Vélo Québec ing national importance and to merit recogni- 1251, rue Rachel Est tion. Montréal, PQ H2J 2J9 CANADA The extent of the so-called “Champlain Valley” THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HERITAGE is open to question. For example, it may be CORRIDOR ASSESSMENT6 defined legitimately as encompassing the towns that abut the historic waterway, the val- In recognition of the rich history that has taken ley floor, or the drainage basin of the lake. For place in the Champlain Valley, Vermont’s Sena- the purposes of [the NPS Study], the team re- tor James Jeffords requested that the National stricted the study area to the counties in New Park Service (NPS) assess the suitability and York and Vermont where the majority of re- feasibility of Congress designating a Heritage sources embodying the major interpretive Corridor in the Champlain Valley. A team of theme “Making of Nations” are located—Clin- planners from the NPS Boston Support Office ton, Essex, Warren, Saratoga, and Washington worked in consultation with local citizens, gov- Counties in New York and Grand Isle, Franklin, ernment representatives, scholars, resource Chittenden, Addison, and Rutland Counties in specialists and consultants to evaluate whether Vermont. The waterway—composed of Lake 32

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN Champlain, the Champlain Canal, Lake George businesses, government agencies (local, state/ INSTITUTIONAL & and the upper Hudson River—forms the spine provincial, and federal), and others with an ORGANIZATIONAL of the study area. interest in the corridor. CAPABILITIES OF THE REGION During the course of the study, the team dis- Quadricentennial Commemoration covered that thematically related resources exist in the Richelieu Valley in Québec. These A second option is federal support of efforts to related resources, located in four Regional commemorate the 400th anniversary of Samuel Municipal Counties or MRCs (Municipalités de Champlain’s arrival in the Champlain/ regionales de comté)— Le Bas-Richelieu, La Richelieu region. Two major celebrations have Vallée-du-Richelieu, Rouville, and Le Haut- been held in the Champlain Valley to com- Richelieu—are described in the study. Given memorate Champlain’s arrival: the first, in the common history and themes, there is po- 1909, marked the 300th anniversary of his ar- tential for international collaboration across the rival in what is now the United States; the sec- US/Canadian boundary. ond, in 1959, highlighted the 350th anniversary. The 400th anniversary commemoration would In consultation with regional and community be modeled after these earlier celebrations, but representatives, the National Park Service de- could be expanded into a multi-year event and veloped three options that could be pursued linked with related activities in Quebec. Fed- to better recognize, promote and preserve the eral legislation would authorize a coordinat- region’s important cultural and natural re- ing entity–in all likelihood a public/ private sources: designation as a national heritage cor- partnership with representation from key in- ridor; a quadricentennial commemoration of terests in the region–to prepare, secure fund- Samuel de Champlain’s arrival in the region; ing for, and execute a plan to commemorate and designation of a state/provincial heritage Champlain’s arrival and explore its implica- corridor. All three options provide opportuni- tions. ties for cross-boundary collaboration, and they need not be mutually exclusive. The study also State/Provincial Heritage Corridor includes a “continuation of current practices” option; under this scenario existing entities A third approach, state/provincial designation would continue (and possibly expand) their of a heritage corridor, also would benefit the efforts to preserve and enhance heritage re- Champlain Valley, but without the recognition sources, and no federal designation or addi- and direct involvement of the NPS. This op- tional authority for federal involvement would tion would be formalized though parallel leg- be pursued. islation to create a heritage corridor adopted by the governments of New York, Vermont, National Heritage Corridor and Quebec. Federal involvement in the region would continue to be through existing com- One option is federal designation as a national petitive grant and technical assistance pro- heritage corridor, which recognizes areas grams. Unlike the first and second options, this where natural, cultural, historic, and recre- approach would not require legislative action ational resources combine to form cohesive and by the US Congress. distinctive landscapes arising from patterns of human activity shaped by geography. There The work for the Heritage Corridor assessment are three broad purposes of designating a na- has been done nearly concurrently with the tional heritage corridor: (1) to enhance and work of Lake Champlain Byways. NPS staff preserve cultural landscapes and historic sites; and consultants have developed a plan for (2) to improve historical understanding and public review of the Special Resource Study, heritage appreciation; and (3) to stimulate com- but at this time, it is unclear what the next steps munity and economic development. Financial are for the Heritage Corridor concept. The and technical support would be available Special Resource Study is a source of data and through the NPS. Successful management information regarding the historic resources of would hinge upon the creation of partnerships the region, and is available from the National among individuals, community organizations, Park Service. 33

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT THE CANADIAN CONNECTION

As the local committees for Lake Champlain There are several programs in Quebec that of- Byways got working, their relationships with fer potential for coordination with the Byways the neighbor to the north demonstrated that project7: there is a connection to be made. The resources, and history, of the Lake Champlain region do • Vélo Québec not stop at the border between Canada and the • National Ministry of Defense: Fort St. United States. Many families found in New Jean York and Vermont have “Americanized” their • Parks Canada: Valley of the Forts, French names and have relatives just over the Chambly Canal, Saint-Ours Canal border. The region has long benefited from an • Canadian Heritage Rivers System international exchange of products, and labor • Historic Sites and Monuments Board forces. The Byway planners recognized that • Regional and municipal programs there are many opportunities for an interna- through the Ministry of Culture and tional aspect of the Byway. Not only for the Communications and/or Ministry of additional markets in Quebec and the rest of Municipal Affairs Canada, but the linkages to the French culture and cosmopolitan qualities of Montreal open the entire Lake Champlain region to a Euro- Canadian Connection Actions: pean venue.

The challenges to be faced in developing the • Participation by Quebec officials on international aspect include: Byways committees. • Development of a local “action” • The exchange rate which currently committee, similar to the county devalues the Canadian dollar by committees in NY and VT to identify nearly 40%. and coordinate local activities. • Border crossings and customs regula- • Governmental participation (local and tions. Provincial) in the development of the • Language — the region demands a Strategic Plan and implementation of need for bilingual abilities between Célébration Champlain!. planners and the development of • Contribute to the database of natural, bilingual signing and interpretive historic, cultural and recreational materials for travelers. resources. • Coordination of additional political • Participate in other Champlain region and jurisdictional interests. activities such as Lake Champlain • Differences between International, Bikeways, Lake Champlain Walk- Canadian and US travel behavior and ways, Lake Champlain Waterways, cultural attitudes needs to be accom- the birding trail, ag-tourism initiative, modated in marketing and delivery. and interpretive signing. • Financial support and participation in The efforts to create an economic development the two grant activities (audio tape strategy for the Byway established a bi-state, and marketing plan) to ensure that the multi-national forum to address the opportu- projects include the Quebec resources nities and issues related to an international and interests. Byway. Célébration Champlain! has developed • Establishment of a bilingual language a framework for an international Byway. New immersion program to facilitate partnerships have been formed in the region, communication between planners and most notably in the bikeways initiative. The tourism interests. development of Lake Champlain Bikeways • Explore cultural differences and and bicycle theme loops has connected com- impacts on tourism marketing for the munities at the grassroots level. Byway. 34

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN SIGNING

Signing issues addressed in the byway plan- agency agreements. The Canal Corporation ning process include directional, route identi- does have several sites in the region that may fication, road identification, interpretation and be using their signing system — Whitehall, outdoor advertising. Port Henry, and Plattsburgh to name a few.

Regional coordination of sign use, design and The group agreed that unification was impor- placement in the large and diverse Lake Cham- tant, and to develop a system (modeled after plain region involves numerous agencies that the NPS “unigrid” system) to help the NY have jurisdiction over roadway identification counties integrate with the Canal system. The and directional signing. With the recent imple- elements and issues discussed included: mentation of locatable addresses (E-911), nearly all roads are well marked, providing a vast • Understanding regulations and improvement for getting around the region. It existing systems of various jurisdic- was decided that developing and implement- tions — NYDOT, VAOT, APA, ing a regional signage system for directional NYOPR&HP, DEC, etc.; and Byway route identification is too complex • connect Lake Champlain stories with an issue to undertake at this time. neighbors — Richelieu River and Champlain Canal; • finding common ground between contextual design (high tech areas vs. rustic areas) and consistency; • attaining cooperation/consistency through the use of incentives (linking grant funds to the design); • recognize that in the future, the design system may be expanded to include brochures or publications and wayfinding signs; and • implementation leadership for guidelines, grants, and technical assistance to the players.

The Basin Program agreed to develop a unified design format under their historic land-

Courtesy: Washington County Planning Department ings project. They will start with the work done by the Canal Corp. — the design guidelines will address headers and grid, fonts, colors, materials, dimensions and construction stan- INTERPRETIVE SIGNING dards. The group agreed to the following guidance to the designer: Lake Champlain Byways, in cooperation with the Lake Champlain Basin Program, provided • Develop a “cost hierarchy” for options a catalyst for developing a regional format for in sizing, materials, and mounting interpretive signs. In June 1999, an Interpre- methods; tive Signing Workshop was held for groups • provide a place for local identification interested in developing interpretive signs. It or logo, consider space for credits; was recognized that a regional sign system is • consider modifying the emphasis on an opportunity to unify the region and save the rectangular shape of the Canal on the cost of sign development. Consideration Corp. system and use two strong of the NYS Canal Corporation sign design colors with a neutral background; guidelines demonstrated potential for multi- • keep the design clean and simple; 35

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT SIGNING • include an image of the lake bleeding to signage, the Committee debated two other to the north and south to blend with options including, road markings and the op- the Champlain Canal and Richelieu tion of no physical mark at all, whereby maps River. Perhaps shown in “birds-eye were solely relied upon to navigate the routes. view” for people who have trouble reading maps; and Lake Champlain Bikeways also faced local con- • provide for bi-lingual headers and cerns that installing directional signs will in- some text in French. crease a town’s liability. In fact this concern is a misconception; cyclists already have full OUTDOOR ADVERTISING rights to use public roadways (with the excep- tion of interstates) and installing bicycle route The State of Vermont and the Adirondack Park signs does not make a town any more or less Agency (APA) have very strict laws concern- liable than they already are. ing outdoor advertising. Because of those laws, there are very few “billboards” along the The initial bikeways signing project was region’s roadways. Vermont has a statewide launched with the City of Burlington express- Official Business Directional Signs (OBDS) sys- ing a strong interest in developing signs for tem that has been lauded by many groups as a their bicycle theme loop, “Cycle the City.” model for other states to implement. The Ver- Realizing that signage would have to happen mont OBDS system was recently reviewed and slowly—town-by-town—Lake Champlain critiqued for the State of Vermont as part of Bikeways decided to conduct a pilot project to: the Vermont Travel Information Study. At this 1) design the signs, and 2) explore the process time, no changes to the system have been in- of implementation. The design addressed how troduced. to differentiate between the Champlain Bikeway and coincidental theme loops. Signs Billboards are found in the parts of Clinton, have been installed along the Champlain Essex and Washington Counties where the Bikeway and Cycle the City in the City of Bur- APA does not have jurisdiction. It is interest- lington. ing to note that the greatest concentration of billboards in the Byways region exist in Wash- Signing Actions: ington County along US RT 4, just as one is approaching the Vermont state line, with • Continue to work with Lake Cham- nearly all advertisements for sites and attrac- plain Bikeways, local communities, tions in Vermont. The Washington County and the transportation agencies in LAC addressed the outdoor advertising issue Vermont, New York and Quebec to in their Corridor Management Plan. sign the entire Bikeways network in as a consistent and uniform manner as DIRECTIONAL SIGNING FOR LAKE CHAM- possible. PLAIN BIKEWAYS • Work with the Lake Champlain Basin Installing a unified signing system for route Program and other Byways partners identification for Lake Champlain Bikeways is to implement an interpretive signage no small task when considering the multitude program for Lake Champlain Byways. of jurisdictions involved. Two states, two coun- tries, eight counties and countless towns and • Utilize the Byways database to cities all have jurisdiction over the roads in the identify the sites that may need multi- Champlain Valley. However, the Lake Cham- sided format, and potential “Gate- plain Bikeways Steering Committee decided to way” locations within the Waypoint initiate the installation of directional signage communities, which may have high- along the town and city roads of the Lake tech or electronic kiosks. Champlain Bikeways Network. The decision did not come easily as the Steering Committee • Work with communities to remove had several debates on the advantages and dis- unwanted outdoor advertising. advantages of directional signage. In addition 36

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN SPIN-OFFS FROM LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS

The “product and project” approach for Lake Both Washington and Essex Counties in New Champlain Byways sparked local interest to York have recently completed county farmland begin several new initiatives that are related protection plans. These plans identify oppor- to the Byways Corridor Management Plan. tunities and partners for agricultural land protection, marketing and countryside tourism THE AG-TOURISM INITIATIVE campaigns. The Cornell Cooperative Exten- sion Office recently conducted a survey in Clin- The most influential aspect of the scenic qual- ton County for farmland protection planning ity of the Lake Champlain region is the fact that purposes. Clinton County will be working it is a working landscape. The hills are actively with the NYS Department of Agriculture and forested which keeps the woods healthy, wild- Markets to produce an Agricultural and Farm- life abundant, and the timber industry viable. land Protection Plan, anticipated to be com- The valley floor is primarily in agriculture, pleted in 2001. which keeps a pastoral quality along the roadsides, and large tracts of land open for pictur- Partners in an Ag-tourism initiative need to esque views and sweeping vistas. involve: State and Federal agriculture agencies, Resource Conservation and Development Councils, State and local chambers and tourism interests, local agriculture initiatives, county farmland protection groups, Vermont and Cornell Cooperative Extension Service and farm organizations such as Farm Bureau, Or- ganic Farmers and breed associations. Ag-tourism Actions:

1. Traditional Ag-tourism • Work with local tourism partners to Credit: Gary Randorf develop a network for farm & forest visits. 2. Education and Events The local landowners who take pride in the • Work with local tourism partners to scenic landscapes that they steward through develop interpretive materials for their farming and forestry were concerned that visitors. the Byway program would bring restrictions • Work with local agriculture interests to their land. The landowners proposed an to develop educational programs for approach that used education and incentives schools, the media, visitors. to keep farming viable, the landscape work- • Work with local tourism partners to ing, and the breathtaking scenery intact. To hold events for visitors to participate fully support the strategy of Ag-tourism to in- in ag-related activities. crease growth opportunities for farmers, more 3. Market Expansion than farm visits is needed to truly improve the • Develop value-added products that viability of the working landscape. Because diversify and increase income. of this, opportunities for visitors to “take part • Assess and expand tourism related of Lake Champlain home” and continuing to markets for farm & forest products. buy Lake Champlain products when they are • Investigate the development of “local at home, needs to be expanded. In addition, currency” for ag products. ways need to be found to keep the working • Explore incentives such as retirement lands along the Byway in production so they and health care benefits for farmers do not become sold for development or aban- that keep the lands working along the doned to grow up in brush. Byway. 37

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT SPIN-OFFS FROM LEADERSHIP CHAMPLAIN The Birding Trail will circle the entire lake. LAKE Within the large loop, there will be smaller inte- C HAMPLAIN The Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of rior loops. These smaller loops will be very BYWAYS Commerce’s Leadership Champlain is a lead- diverse in the habitats and species they show- ership training program for mid-level manag- case. Not all of the sites will be located directly ers looking to expand their networking re- on highways. It is anticipated that access to sources and improve their community. The some of the birding areas will be by canoe or “Strategic Framework for Célébration Cham- foot only. Other sites will be pull-offs from plain” was reviewed for potential projects, and highways and be highly accessible for people selected for a project in the 1999-2000 program. with disabilities, the elderly, and young fami- The project team is planning to: lies. The trail planning effort will strive to ensure that trail experiences are varied and di- • Investigate the feasibility of establish- verse. It is expected that visitors to these sites ing a Champlain Arts Consortium, will range from local school groups to visitors • recommend an implementation plan to the Lake Champlain region; from the vet- for establishing the Consortium, if eran birder to first-timers. appropriate, and • generate excitement for Célébration The Trail will be highway-based. Many of the Champlain and the Consortium. possible sites along the trail will be areas that already provide public access in a manner designed to reduce resource damage. Site assess- BIRDING TRAIL ments will also carefully consider potential impacts to species and habitats and make rec- Efforts to create the Lake Champlain Birding ommendations for resource protection as nec- Trail developed through the Byways planning essary. The trail will add an educational com- project. This trail is the first two-state birding ponent at sites, in the form of interpretive sig- trail in the nation and the first birding trail in nage on site and a brochure which will pro- the Northeast. This trail is planned to be a vide way-finding and viewing ethics informa- highway-based trail (approximately 300 miles) tion that is not only beneficial to the visitor but which unifies and connects about 60 birding also to the species which inhabit the sites. sites along the Lake Champlain shoreline and uplands in Vermont and New York into a co- Participation in the trail is voluntary; and own- hesive and marketable unit. Lake Champlain ers will be asked to sign a consent form before and surrounding communities in New York their site is listed as part of the trail. The own- and Vermont a premier national destination for ers of sites will be asked to continue to main- birding, increasing nature tourism in the Lake tain the sites and may be asked to share in the Champlain Region, and conveying the value cost of fabrication and installation of interpre- of conservation and recreation to community tive or informational signage of the increased leaders and landowners. Whereby, attracting visibility associated with participating in the visitors who will spend money on birding and trail. Participation in the trail is expected to travel needs and tools. increase visitation to sites as a result of promotional activities. It is also expected that there A planned high quality full color map and will be increased opportunities for site man- guide will identify birding sites throughout the agers to obtain funding to support site im- Lake Champlain Basin and provide informa- provement, interpretation, and maintenance. tion about lodging, dining, outfitters, guides and other service providers in the area. Uni- The National Parks Service-Rivers Trails and form way-finding signs with site numbers/ Conservation Assistance program and Lake names will be installed to identify each site as Champlain Byways program have been con- part of the birding trail. Interpretive signs are sulted for advice in the planning of the Trail. proposed to be designed and placed at sites to A Vermont Recreation Trails fund grant was help reveal to visitors various natural and cul- awarded in April 1999 to help fund site assess- tural history themes and messages. ment and public involvement. In May 1999, the Lake Champlain Birding Trail received a 38

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN program partnership award offered through The partners share the following vision: SPIN-OFFS FROM the Citizen’s Advisory Committee of the Lake LAKE Champlain Basin Program. Interpretive sign • To participate in an on-going, locally C HAMPLAIN design funds have been received from the Re- based process; BYWAYS newable Resources Extension Act program ad- • to experience the watershed’s unique ministered through the UVM Extension Ser- history, natural environment and vices. Interpretive sign design and fabrication working landscape (including agricul- funds have been requested from the Lake ture, forestry, slate quarrying and Champlain Basin Programs Enhancements other industry); fund. Project administration is by the George • to reveal the natural, cultural and D. Aiken RC&D Council, Inc, with a roject historical heritage of the watershed in steering committee made up of representatives an easy way to understand and lively from several state agencies and local interest way; groups. • to encourage economic development, tourism, and recreation while protect- The proposed time-line for the project is to con- ing the outstanding character of the duct site assessments in Summer/Fall 1999, watershed; and and make recommendations to the steering • to showcase the watershed’s distinc- committee by November 1999. Interpretive tive character while promoting high sign planning and an informational brochure quality, community- based services will be done in Winter 1999/2000. Visitors to and amenities to meet the needs of the trail can be expected in some areas where visitors and residents. site improvements currently exist as soon as Spring 2000. In the Fall of 1998 the Poultney – Mettowee Watershed Partnership held public forums as a result five work groups are being created POULTNEY - METTOWEE from forum participants, and agency and or- WATERSHED PARTNERSHIP ganization representatives. The categories for these work groups are: In an effort to address the natural resources of the southern Lake region shared by Rutland • Agriculture and Washington Counties, a Watershed Part- • Water quality nership was initiated through Lake Champlain • Natural resources and Wildlife Byways. The Poultney-Mettowee Watershed is • Education located over 17 towns in the states of Vermont • Recreation and New York. The watershed is compromised of a combination of farmlands, small cities, The project will continue to gather ideas on townships, grasslands, wooded areas, and ru- improving the Poultney-Mettowee Watershed ral communities. These areas include a wide and identify local citizens and organizations diversity of bird and mammal species. that are willing to be partners. Strategies and actions to strengthen and improve our com- Partners for the Poultney-Mettowee Watershed munities and protect restore or enhance our is a group of concerned citizens from both New natural and recreational resources and trans- York and Vermont who began meeting in Fall portation systems will be initiated by the wa- 1998. The project intends to gather ideas on tershed partners. improving the Poultney-Mettowee Watershed and identify local citizens and organizations that are willing to be partners. Strategies and actions to strengthen and improve our communities and protect restore or enhance our natural and recreational resources and transportation system will be initiated by the watershed partners. 39

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT STATE BYWAY DESIGNATION

NEW YORK Ticonderoga Ferry to NYS Route 22, continuing on Montcalm Street to the Liberty Monu- Through the planning process, the current des- ment, continuing along NYS Route 9N from ignation of the Champlain Trail has been evalu- the monument to the intersection of NYS Route ated by each LAC for its ability to serve the 9N/22. communities as a State Scenic Byway. Each county in New York has proposed modifica- Crown Point: NYS Route 903 (the Bridge Road) tions to this route which have been compiled from the Champlain Bridge to the NYS Route to read: 9N/22 intersection.

Washington County Chesterfield: NYS Route 373 (Port Kent Ferry Several modifications are proposed to provide Road) from the Port Kent Ferry to NYS Route connections to Vermont and increase access to 9 intersection, and the Soper Road intersection Byway resources: to Keeseville Village.

Change: designation of US Route 4 from the Clinton County intersection of NYS Route 254 in Hudson Falls The route is redefined to improve access to the to the intersection of Route 4 and NYS Route Byway resources and to provide connections 22 in Whitehall from the Champlain Trail to to Vermont: the Champlain Canal Trail (designation application pending.) A continuous route starting with US Route 9 in the Village of Keeseville (Essex County line) Add: US Route 4 from the intersection with to the junction of US Route 9 with City Hall NYS Route 22 in Whitehall to the Vermont state Place in downtown Plattsburgh, continuing on line. City Hall Place, turning into Cumberland Av- enue, and rejoining US Route 9 in the north Putnam: Best Road from NYS Route 22 east- end of Plattsburgh. continuing along US Route ward to Washington County Route 3, continu- 9 to the junction with County Route 22 (Lake ing southeastward to Lake Road, continuing Shore Road) in Beekmantown. Continue north westward to NYS Route 22. along County Route 22 to NYS Route 9B in Coopersville, continue north along NYS Route Dresden: Washington County Route 6 from 9B to US Route 11 (Lake Street) in Rouses Point. NYS Route 22 to Huletts Landing, continuing Continue along US Route 11 through the Vil- on County Route 6 to Pike Brook Road, and lage of Rouses Point to the Canadian border in continuing southward and eastward to County Champlain, New York. Route 7 to NYS Route 22. Plattsburgh: County Route 57 (Cumberland Whitehall: From NYS Route 22 in the Village Head Road) US Route 9 to the Cumberland of Whitehall along Saunders Street east to Head ferry North Williams Street to Washington County Route 10 eastward to County Route 11 to Golf Rouses Point: US Route 2 from US Route 11 to Course Road, continuing to US Route 4. the Vermont State line.

Essex County These modifications are substantiated in each Three segments are proposed to be added to county’s component of the Corridor Manage- the existing Champlain Trail designation, pro- ment Plan. The proposed route will be sub- viding connections to Vermont and increasing mitted to the NYS Scenic Byways Advisory access to the Byway resources: Board for review and recommendation for adoption as the Champlain Trail. Ticonderoga: A continuous route starting at NYS Route 74 (Fort Road) from the 40

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN VERMONT forward in Charlotte, Shelburne, and Burling- STATE BYWAY ton, however, no specific proposals have been DESIGNATION The Vermont Byways Program was adopted made to date. in June 1998, about mid-way through the planning project for Lake Champlain Byways. In Grand Isle County that there was no State-designated Byway Some local interest in Byway designation was route in the Lake Champlain region at the out- expressed in several Grand Isle communities, set of the project, the planning process was however, no specific proposals have been made used to develop public awareness of Byway to date. possibilities and community identification of an appropriate route for designation. At both Franklin County the Steering and Local Advisory Committee No advocates for Byway designation came for- meetings, the Vermont county planners repeat- ward during the planning process. edly expressed their desire to be neutral in the designation discussions, and did not act as It is anticipated that Vermont Byway designa- advocates for pursuing designation. The RPCs tion in the Lake Champlain region will come strongly supported the Vermont Byways Pro- forward over a period of time, ensuring local gram8 Designation Principles (Vermont Byways commitment to designation. The key to By- Program Manual, page 7). The Vermont State way designation in Vermont is in continuous designation process specifies that written sup- commitment by the State of Vermont to the port for Byway designation is to come from Byways planning and designation process. locally elected officials (Vermont Byways Pro- There is a need for State fiscal support of the gram Manual 6.c.d, page 11). designation process, as well as towards the Federal grants program. The county planners did facilitate the designation process by providing a forum for iden- At this point in time, two segments of the tifying resources, discussing strengths and Champlain Trail in Vermont have received sup- weaknesses of Byway designation, and facili- port from local officials for State designation: tating Byway designation for interested communities. The outcome of those discussions • Middlebury — All state or US are included in each county component of the highway routes that are within the CMP. With such a new program, and no track Middlebury Downtown Improvement record of designated roadways, most of the District. Specifically this includes US discussion centered around perceived prob- RT 7 from the intersection with lems and benefits. A real concern to the Ver- Stewart Lane and Elm Street, south to mont communities is that designation would the intersection of the entrance to the trigger ACT 250 (Vermont’s statewide landuse Mary Hogan School. Also VT RTs 30 regulation law) scrutiny and regulatory con- and 125 along Main Street from the trol of properties along the designated road- intersection of US RT 7 to the Intersec- way. A summary of designation discussions: tions of South Street and Weybridge Street. Rutland County • Vergennes — All of VT RT 22 through No local advocates for Byway designation the City of Vergennes. came forward during the planning process. Both Middlebury and Vergennes will serve as Addison County Waypoint Communities to Lake Champlain From local advocates, Selectboard support for Byways. These proposals are substantiated in Byway designation came forward in Middle- the Addison County component of the Corri- bury and Vergennes. Both communities are dor Management Plan. The request for desig- working with the ACRPC to apply for State nation has been submitted to the Vermont Byway designation in their communities. Scenery Preservation Council for review and recommendation for adoption as the Cham- Chittenden County plain Trail, a Vermont State designated Byway. Local advocates for Byway designation came 41

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT IMPLEMENTATION

Previous experience in the bi-state, bi-national organizing “vehicle” to implement the Lake Champlain region, has shown that the actions identified in the Lake Cham- implementation of a successful program for a plain Byways Corridor Management Byway in the region must : Plan. • Implementation of the Strategic Plan • Capture the political will and possess for Célébration Champlain should political leadership to support the remain with Lake Champlain Byways, initiative’s goals and objectives. and connected be to the National • Provide for complete stakeholder Scenic Byways program. This will not representation at the outset of the only retain the grass-roots quality of initiative to ensure support. the program, but will keep the multi- • Have the management shared by disciplinary approach to the region multiple institutions. and provide funding opportunities. • Have diverse and flexible funding • The Lake Champlain Byways plan- sources. ning process utilized a structure of • Be driven by local priorities and agreements with local non-profits and initiatives. governmental organizations to • Possess reasonable and understand- able benchmarks for success. • Work in concert with widely-held local values.

Through the Lake Champlain Byways Corridor Management Planning Project and the input received from the Agencies and Legis- lators, several points have been identified that should guide the development of a management structure and Courtesy: Middlebury Downtown Business Association funding mechanism:

• The Steering Committee for Lake administer and staff the project. This Champlain Byways needs to represent structure worked, ensuring local many interests: county planning control of the fiscal management and offices, travel & tourism, economic program development. All projects development, transportation agencies, and grants required partnerships and historic preservation, education, arts, cooperative efforts, which created a recreation, agriculture and natural local commitment to the project. resources. • The structure for future implementa- • “Célébration Champlain!” is the tion needs to continue to utilize strategy to unite and rejuvenate the existing organizations and successful communities of the Lake Champlain partnerships. To that end, Lake region, and along with other local and Champlain Byways should continue regional strategies, will serve as the as an organization of organizations. 42

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN This is similar to INCOCHAMP, the • Pursue legislation in the New York IMPLEMENTATION structure used for the 350th com- and Vermont Legislatures for the memoration of Lake Champlain. support, and funding, of Célébration • The implementation of Célébration Champlain. Champlain needs to be reconciled • Investigate potential Federal funding with the activities of the Basin Pro- sources from HUD, the Canal Corridor gram and Senator Jefford’s Heritage Initiative, and State Department. Corridor Initiative to prevent duplica- • Pursue existing funding sources tion of efforts. within State government (VAOT, • Congressional legislation to support NYDOT, VACCD, NY Dept. of State, the implementation for Célébration etc.) for interim funding. Champlain should move forward • Pursue funding of individual projects separately from the Heritage Corridor identified in the CMP through State initiative to maintain the integrity of Scenic Byway programs for National the grass-roots program. Scenic Byways funds.

LakeChamplainBywaysCommittee Leadership&Governance

CélébrationChamplain!Committee Operations&Administration

Local(County) Local(County) Local(County) Local(County) Local(County) Committee Committee Committee Committee Committee

Local(County) Local(County) Local(County) Local(County) Committee Committee Committee Committee

RegionalPrograms&Events Region-wideActivities Localcontributions Implementedlocally

The Byways Steering Committee and Economic Study Task Group have identified a management structure for the implementation of Lake Champlain Byways.

LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN - REGIONAL COMPONENT IMPLEMENTATION Implementation Actions: “Célébration Champlain!” Committee, Local Committees • Identify individuals to serve on • The Lake Champlain Byways county committees, complete fiscal and planning offices will continue to administrative agreements. coordinate local activities and meet at • Continue regional coordination and a regional level to establish Lake implementation for multi-modal Champlain Byways to implement the transportation: Bikeways, Walkways, actions identified in the Corridor Waterways, and Birding Trail. Management Plan. • In order to assure the sustainability of • Because of the two-state nature of the the Byway resources, assess the project, work with New York and carrying capacity of the region’s Vermont congressional members’ staff communities and resources prior to to provide an overview of the plan for the advent of increased Byway lake Champlain Byways and marketing and promotion. Identify Célébration Champlain, and discuss the capabilities & capacity of provid- opportunities for federal support. ers of infrastructure, and coordinate • Pursue a Resolution that would be with marketing plans and timeline for signed by all seven Congressional implementation of infrastructure members to support Célébration improvements. Champlain. • Work to involve local groups to • Meet with Congressional staff mem- implement portions of the plan for bers, State Legislators and State Célébration Champlain!, such as the Agency representatives from both Leadership Champlain’s project “Lake states to bring everyone up to speed Champlain Arts Consortium”. on the Byways project, the plan for • Solicit community input to strategic Célébration Champlain, and to plan by hosting Regional Symposia explore opportunities and resources on: Native American culture, Educa- for implementation at the State and tion, Renewal of the Lake Federal level. • Prepare implementation timeline — • Develop workplan and budget to identify and prioritize “Program and secure long term public and private Event Strategies” to undertake as funding. regional projects or region-wide • Formalize relationship with partners activities, establish appropriate in Quebec and identify Canadian role committees. in activities. • Maintain a close coordination with the • Establish Organizational Structure — State transportation agencies during Identify interest groups & organiza- the implementation of the Corridor tions to be represented: Lake Cham- Management Plan. plain Byways Committee,

1 Opportunities for Action: An Evolving Plan for the Future of the Lake Champlain Basin, June 1996 2 Lake Champlain Basin Study: Landscape Quality in the Lake Champlain Basin, 1978 3 Lake Champlain Basin Program and MarketReach Inc., 1996 Lake Champlain Basin Cultural Heritage: Tourism Survey and Marketing Plan. 4 excerpted from theInstitutional Arrangements Report, prepared for the Lake Champlain Basin Program by Yellow Wood Associates, Inc. 1996. 5 Report on the Institutional Potentials for Implementing the Lake Champlain Level B Study Recommendations , by Carl A. Carlozzi and Linda Prosnitz for the Lake Champlain Study, January 1979. 6 Excerpt from the Champlain Valley Heritage Corridor Project, “National Park Service Special Resource Study Fact Sheet”, November 1999. 7 International Corridors of Culture, prepared for the National Park Service by Anne Drost, 1998 8 44 The Vermont Byways Program: Program Manual, Vermont Agency of Transportation, June 10, 1998.

REGIONAL COMPONENT - LAKE CHAMPLAIN BYWAYS CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN