Fort Williams Park The Town of Cape Elizabeth, Maine
Master Plan Update 2021 RECOMMENDATIONS DRAFT DRAFT for Committee Review and Discussion MARCH 17, 2021 TEAM
Richardson & Associates, Landscape Architects 11 Middle Street, Saco, Maine Todd Richardson, Principal Kenneth Studtmann, Project Manager
Simons Architects 75 York Street, Portland, Maine
Kayla Caron, Architect
Gorilll Palmer 707 Sable Oaks Drive, Suite 30, South Portland, Maine
William Haskell, Principal
COMMITTEE
Fort Williams Park Committee Jim Kerney, Chair of Fort Williams Park Committee Mark Russell Kenneth Pierce Lauren Springer Suzanne McGinn Doreen Theriault
Cape Elizabeth_ Community Services Katy Raftice, Director of Community Services
Special Thanks, Thank you to all the Participants in the User Groups Interviews, Chris Cutter, Fort Williams Coordinator, Jeanne Gross, Director of Portland Head Light, Bob Malley, Former Public Works Director, and the general Public.
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 A site master plan is a dynamic long-term planning document that provides a conceptual layout to guide future growth and development. The master planning is about making the connection between buildings, social settings, and their surrounding environments. Table of Content_ Recommendations 01 Fort Williams Park 2021 Master Plan Update Goals
02 Overview of Park by Area
03 Recommendations by Area
04 Architectural Recommendations- Cape Elizabeth Center at Fort Williams Park
05 Architectural Recommendations- General Recommendations
06 General Recommendations
07 Park Governance / Management
Fort Williams Park 2021 Master Plan Updated Goals
1. Prioritize and enhance the Park for the year-round enjoyment of all local residents.
2. Advance safe access, circulation and easy way-finding for all Park visitors.
3. Preserve, Protect, Promote and Enhance the Park’s natural, scenic and historic resources.
Establish a long-term sustainability plan to maintain the quality of the Park. 02 Overview of Park by Area
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 # Zones (Zones Identified by Distinct Zones through Site Characteristics (either by Topogra- Overview of Park by Area/ Zones phy, Vegetation, or other Features) and by how it is Used) (See Site Analysis, Dated 1/28/2021) 4 Areas (Grouping of Zones into Distinct and Identifiable Areas) North Section of Park 1. The Meadow 2. Field Ship Cove 3 3. Goddard Mansion / Chapel Road Preserve 4. Battery Keys
Mid-Plateau Section of Park 5. Overflow Parking 2 6. Parade’s Ground / Parking North Section of Park 7.Children’s Garden 8. Officer’s Row
1 Central Section of Park 9. Picnic Shelter 10. Picnic Table Area 11. Pickle Ball Courts 17 5 South Section of Park 12. Offices/ Town Buildings/ Playground 6 16 13. Athletic Fields 14. Southwest Preserve/ Battery Gareche Mid-Plateau Section of Park Water Front Section of Park 9 15. Water Front_ Greens at Former Barracks Water Front Section of Park 16. Battery Knoll Lawn Central Section of Park 17. Cliff Walk/ Cliffside 7 8 18 10 18. Central Parking Lot/ Battery Blaire/ Portland Head Light
11 18
12 15
South Section of Park 13
14
Fort Williams Park Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Master Plan Update 2021 Overview of Park Zones and Areas 03 Recommendations by Area
Legend
High Level of Probable Investment
Medium Level of Probable Investment
Low Level of Probable Investment
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 NORTH SECTION OF PARK Battery Keys
4
Goddard Mansion 3
2 Ship Cove
The Meadow 1
High Level of Probable Investment
Medium Level of Probable Investment
Low Level of Probable Investment
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 29 Recommendations NORTH SECTION 28 Entrance 1. Improve and enhance the aesthetics of the Park’s entrance by adding native plant material at the main entry gate and entry sign. 2. Plant native tree and shrub species to extend the Chapel Hill Preserve towards the
26 Battery Park’s entrance along the fence line running along Shore road to promote and expand the
27 Keyes ecological diversity throughout the Park. Use Native trees and understory plant material.
Powers Road See Cape Elizabeth Center at FWP 28 3. Install granite curbs along the entire length of Power’s Road to provide vertical Alternatives 22 27 separation and improve pedestrian and vehicular safety. 25 21 4. Provide selective breaks in the existing guard rail along Power’s Road to facilitate north- Goddard Mansion south pedestrian movement. Add cross walks across Power’s road as needed.
24 5. Provide pockets of native vegetation on the backside of the guard rail along Power’s Road to reduce the visual impact of the continuous guardrail. 28 6. Re-engineer and realign the portion of the road between the Ship Cove parking lot and Whitney Road to improve the horizontal and vertical alignment, and to increase pedestrian 23 and vehicle separation and safety. 27 The Meadow 18 12 7. Increase the depth of loam throughout the Meadow or aerate and over-seed the lawn area to improve the quality lawn throughout the Meadow. 14 13 16 Cove Chapel Hill 8. Provide paths throughout the Meadow to improve and facilitate pedestrian movement.
Preserve 15 Ship Cove 11 10 9. Establish a new entrance with sign and plantings, a new road, and a new parking 17 18 lot. Remove the parking lot from in front of the cove and move to the north side of the Meadow and beyond the Shoreland Zone. 17 9 10. Establish a new and expanded park space and vegetated buffer at the Cove that has 17 9 direct access to the water. 11. Develop a new and expanded playground (for all ages) at the edge of Chapel Road Preserve. 20 9 12. Develop a new Ship Cove picnic platform that responds to its presence on the shore by 17 The Meadow 6 installing plant material on the back side and edges of this new picnic platform. 7 13. Develop a transitional node at the intersection of the paths at the beginning of the 19 3 walk to Battery Keyes and Goddard Mansion which includes a kiosk with signage such as 8 interpretative panels and maps. 14. Provide a clear pedestrian circulation path system by simplifying and reducing the Powers Road 4 number of paths leading from the parking area to Battery Keyes, Goddard Mansion and the 1 portable toilets. 2 15. Explore the idea of adding a new community focused facility (See Cape Elizabeth Center at FWP alternatives) with associated parking. This hub can increase opportunities for community programming and office space, introduce bathroom facilities within the park, 5 See Mid-Plateau Section for Recommendations 3 and add potential park revenue streams. 1 16. Improve the screening of the portable toilets with new wood, screening and planting The Entrance material.
1 Chapel Hill Preserve / Chapel Hill Road 17. Manage invasive plant species and add trails throughout the Chapel Hill Preserve. Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ North Section of Park RecommendationsNorth Section Recommendations / Goals Matrix 18. Re-build Chapel Hill Road and sidewalk to provide safe access. Install a drop-off zone and designated parking area at Goddard Mansion. 2021 MASTER PLAN GOALS 19. Expose and celebrate the natural and cultural features within Chapel Hill. 1. Community: Prioritize and enhance the Park for the year-round enjoyment of all local residents. 20. Improve the sight lines at the Chapel Road/ Shore Road intersection by removing 2. Access: Advance safe access, circulation and easy way-finding for all Park Visitors. ledge and vegetation along Shore Road. 3. Resources: Preserve, protect, promote, and enhance the Park's natural, scenic and historic resources. Future: Establish a long-term sustainability plan to maintin the quality of the Park. Goddard Mansion 21. Determine the appropriate level of preservation and access to Goddard Mansion. RECOMMENDATIONS Level of Investment Goals Option A (Secure it) - Replace the existing fence with more permanent high Community Access Resources quality fencing in the building’s apertures. Consult a Structural Engineer to evaluate 1. Enhance entrance x x x stabilization needs for the immediate entry vestibule and steps, and adjacent overhead 2. Extend Chapel Hill Preserve x x x structure. Make minimal structural improvements to allow for superficial access to the 3. Install granite curb along Power’s Road x x stoop. 4. Provide N-S access across Power’s Road x x Option B (Access to the a Portion of the Interior) - Consult a Structural Engineer 5. Provide plant pockets along Power’s Road x x to evaluate the stabilization and structural needs to stabilize the central portion of the 6. Re-engineer Power’s Road x x exterior and interior of the building to allow for limited and controlled access only into the 7. Increase loam depth x x x main section of the structure. No access is granted to the barn portion of the structure. 8. Provide circulation through the Meadow x Option C (Historic Relic- Front Wall) - Consult a Structural Engineer to evaluate 9. Establish a new Ship Cove entrance and parking x x x stabilization and structural needs to remove all but the front wall of the Mansion to 10. Establish an improved water front space x x establish an ruin artifact of the past. Establish an outdoor space as part of the wall. Add 11. Develop fully integrated playground x Interpretive panels. 12. Develop a new Ship Cove picnic platform x x x 13. Develop transitional nodes to Battery Keyes x x 22. Develop a small exterior overlook on the east side of the mansion to provide a safe 14. Provide a clear pedestrian circulation system x x and secure place with filtered views of the water. 15. Possible add a new Community Center x x 23. Eliminate excessive asphalt paving at the Mansion and replace with native vegetation 16. Improve screening of Porta Potties. x and lawn area to provide additional event space and / or overlook. 17. Manage Invasive species in Chapel Hill Preserve (CHP) x 24. Add native plant material along the property line to provide a visual, vegetated buffer. 18. Re-build Chapel Hill Road x x 25. Plant the slopes on the east side of the mansion to provide safe, secure, and 19. Expose and Celebrate Natural and cultural features in CHP x designated access and to reduce the erosion. 20. Improve sight lines at Chapel Hill Road/ Shore Road Intersection x 21. Goddam Mansion Preservation (3 Options) x x x Battery Keyes 22. Develop an overlook at backside of Mansion x x x 26.Determine the appropriate level of preservation and access to Battery Keyes. 23. Reduce imperviouis surface at Mansion x x x Option A (Secure It) - Add a fence in the apertures and door ways to restrict 24. Add vegetated buffer along property line x access. Consult a Structural Engineer to determine how to repair the steps and handrails 25. Plant slope on back side of Mansion x x x to provide safe access to top of the Battery. 26. Battery Keyes Preservation_ (3 Options) x x x Option B (Removal and Add Overlook) - Remove all or a portion of the battery 27. Reduce impervious surface and establish open space at Battery Keyes x x x and replace with a new overlook that reinterprets the battery and creates a safe viewing 28. Remove invasives/ Re-plant Shoreline platform. x x x 29. Provide safe rocky shore access x x x 27. Reduce the width of the road leading to the battery to an 8’ wide walking path. Add seating opportunities along this approach to the battery, and remove excessive pavement in front of the battery to establish an open space. 28. Remove any invasive plant material and add native plant material along the shore’s edge to reduce erosion and stabilize the shore’s edge. 29. Provide safe, controlled access points to the rocky shore - See General Recommendations.
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ North Section of Park Aerial_ Existing Conditions
Chapel Hill Preserve Entrance Chapel Hill Road
Goddard Mansion The Meadow
Powers Road
Battery Keyes
Ship Cove
Cove
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ North Section of Park Aerial_ Proposed Recommendations Diagram
Entrance and Chapel Hill Preserve Chapel Hill Preserve Enhancements Entrance Chapel Hill Road Park Buffer
Goddard Mansion Improvements New Playground Powers Road Goddard Mansion New Parking Lot and Road The Meadow
Improved Larger Park Space at Water’s Edge Battery Keyes Improvements and Battery Keyes Naturalization of Area
Ship Cove
Road and Pedestrian Path Improvements
Cove
This Diagram Illustrates in Diagram Form Only the Overarching Recommendations. See Plan for Full Recommendations Descriptions.
LEGEND Physical Improvement
Circulation (Pedestrian)
Landscape/ Vegetation Improvement
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ North Section of Park MID-PLATEAU SECTION OF PARK
5 Overflow Parking
Parade Ground 6
Officer’s Row Children’s 8 7 Garden / Pond / Tennis court
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 MID-PLATEAU SECTION OF PARK Recommendations Overflow Parking See Cape Elizabeth 30. Establish paved parking in the area that is currently Overflow Center at FWP Parking. Expand the parking lot towards the Children’s Garden. Alternatives Remove and relocate the existing parking in the east end of the Parade Ground to the newly paved Overflow Parking Lot. Eliminate See North Section for Recommendations 32 34 the road leading to the Overflow Parking lot (Wheatly Road) and
30 utilize the existing road system, where possible gain access to the newly paved parking in the Overflow Parking lot. Eliminate the section of road that extends beyond the overflow parking area and 31 is behind the Children’s Garden to reduce unnecessary impervious 30 39 surfaces. 32 31. Establish a “green” corridor (native trees and shrubs) from the Overflow Parking parking lot down to Powers Road along the north side of the new Parade Ground Overflow Parking lot. Establish a wide path with this corridor to allow for east-west pedestrian and bike circulation. 33 35 32 32. Establish a North – South path across this section of the Park. 35 Repair the steps and path leading from the Overflow Parking lot area 30 45 down the slope towards the Pump Station. 39 33. Establish a node and information kiosk at the Overflow Parking lot as both an organizing site element and to display Park information 36 37 and maps. 32 34. Eliminate the old fort wall associated with the Fort’s former 30 hospital and crumbling steps. Re-grade and establish a new park 32 45 space.
43 Parade Ground 35. Bleachers- Consider the following Options 42 See Central Section for Recommendations (Option A: Integration) - Integrate the bleachers into site by adding Children’s Garden 41 44 plants (trees and shrubs) between the parking area and bleachers. 32 Repair or replace the existing bleachers to provide a safe and stable See Cape Elizabeth Center at FWP bleacher area. Establish an ADA accessible path from the parking Alternatives 40 area to the bleachers. (Option B: Relocate) – Consider a new location (See Waterfront Section) for the bleachers. 45 36. Establish the existing road that runs along the south side of the parade ground as a walking promenade. Provide seating nodes and trees and plant pods. Add water and electrical infrastructure along this new promenade.
37. Ball Field (Option A: Remain) – Leave the ball field as is. (Option B: Relocate) – Relocate the ball field and related facilities to a location outside the park and integrate the field into the Town’s other facilities. Loam and seed the area to establish lawn area.
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ Mid-Plateau Section of Park 38. Establish a new Park Space at the terminus of the Mid Plateau Section Recommendations parade ground to provide a vendor hub, picnic and Recommendations / Goals Matrix gathering area. 2021 MASTER PLAN GOALS 39. Add loam and re-seed to establish a healthier lawn 1. Community: Prioritize and enhance the Park for the year-round enjoyment of all local residents. area. 2. Access: Advance safe access, circulation and easy way-finding for all Park Visitors. 3. Resources: Preserve, protect, promote, and enhance the Park's natural, scenic and historic resources. Children’s Garden / Skating Pond / Tennis Court Future: Establish a long-term sustainability plan to maintin the quality of the Park. 40.Hire a pond consultant to evaluate and repair the pond’s environment, pumps and surrounding walls. Add RECOMMENDATIONS Level of Investment Goals native plant material around the edges of the pond. Community Access Resources 41. Re-locate the tennis courts next to the pickleball 30. Develop Permenant Parking at Overflow Parking x x courts to establish an active recreation hub. Build a new 31. Establish Green Corridor/ Circulation x x x picnic shelter that can serve as a warming hut for winter 32. Establish N-S Circulation x x skating. 33. Establish Node/ Kiosk x x 42. The Children’s Garden is a major park asset and 34. Develop New Park Space x x x needs to continue to be maintained with the support 35. Bleacher Options x x of Friends of FWP. The Town should consider financial 36. Develop Walking Promenade x x support to continue to assist the Friends of FWP’s efforts. 37. Ball Fields Option x 43. Consider re-locating the existing playground near the 38. Develop Park Space - Terminus of Parade Ground Town’s maintenance buildings to the North side of the x x x 39. Add Loam and Seed Children’s Garden to support the play activity in that area. x x 40. Repair Pond x x Officer’s ROW 41. Re-locateTennis Court x 42. Maintain Children's Garden x x 44. Introduce new native tree and shrub species 43. Re-Locate Playground x throughout the area (as per report by Mike Duddy, 2016) 44. Tree Planting to establish the next generation of tree growth. Reduce x x 45. Add Plantings at Band Shelter the mowing practice in this area to establish a tall grass, x x meadow area. Over-seed the area with a conservation and/or meadow seed mix. 45. Add native plant material around base of band shelter to better integrate the structure into the landscape.
Recommendations_ Mid-Plateau Section of Park Aerial_ Existing Conditions
Parade Ground
Children’s Garden Officer’s ROW
Pond
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ Mid-Plateau Section of Park Aerial_ Proposed Recommendations Diagram
LEGEND Physical Improvement
Circulation (Pedestrian)
Landscape/ Vegetation Improvement
See North Section New Park Space
New Pedestrian Circulation and Green Corridor Parade Ground
New Parking Lot and Road
New Kiosk / Node
New Shelter/ Outdoor Space; Children’s Garden Officer’s ROW Possible Warming Hut for Winter Skating
Re-located Playground from Maintenance Building Area to Children’s Garden Pond Re-Located Tennis Court
Improved Pond
See South Section
This Diagram Illustrates in Diagram Form Only the Overarching Recommendations. See Plan for Full Recommendations Descriptions. Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ Mid-Plateau Section of Park Cape Elizabeth Center at FWP Alternative
View
New Facility Battery Lawn / Knoll Parade Ground
Battery Lawn / Knoll
Picnic Shelter
Outdoor Space Parade Ground New Facility
Outdoor Space
Parade Ground
Kitty’s Point
Option 2_ Cape Elizabeth Center at FWP at Terminus of Parade Ground Option 2_ Aerial: Existing Conditions
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ Mid-Plateau Section of Park Cape Elizabeth Center at FWP Alternative
Parade Ground
Parade Ground Children’s Garden
Children’s Garden
New Facility Officer’s ROW New Facility Outdoor Space
Pond Officer’s ROW
Pond
Option 3_ Cape Elizabeth Center at FWP at Pond Option 3_ Existing Conditions
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ Mid-Plateau Section of Park CENTRAL SECTION OF PARK
Parade Ground
Officer’s ROW
Picnic Shelter 9
Picnic Table Area 10 11 Pickleball Court
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 CENTRAL SECTION OF PARK Recommendations
Picnic Shelter and Parking Lot 46. Add native plant material around the Picnic Shelter and on the edges of the access road leading up to the shelter to enhance and integrate it into the landscape. 47. Consider removing the parking lot and developing a new See Water Front Section for Recommendations park space with picnic tables and associated amenities.
47A. Add fill material to raise the grade of the parking lot area to the street level. Eliminate the spur road allowing vehicles See Mid-Plateau Section for Recommendations access to the current parking lot. 47 B. Continue to provide vehicular access to the Picnic Shelter 47 D with the vehicle access immediately off Powers Road. 47 C. Add additional pedestrian crosswalks across Powers road to provide safe crossings points. 47 A 47 D. Remove the existing brick storage building on the edge Picnic Shelter 47 C 46 of the parking lot.
46 47 B 46 Pickleball Court / Tennis Court 48. Establish an expanded active recreation court area
49 48A. Re-orient the pickleball courts to N-S direction to improve the playing experience. Establish a seating area outside of the Pickleball Courts courts for people to wait and view on-going matches. 48B. Re-locate the (2) tennis courts from the pond area to this
49 new active recreation area. Place the courts in a N-S orientation 48 A adjacent the pickleball courts and at the terminus of the Picnic
48 B Shelter area to at the terminus of the common grounds. See Cape Elizabeth Center at FWP Alternatives Paths 49. Provide additional N-S Paths. Add steps and ramps with 49 handrails where needed.
See Back/ South Section for Recommendations
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations Central Section of Park RecommendationsCentral Section Recommendations / Goals Matrix 2021 MASTER PLAN GOALS 1. Community: Prioritize and enhance the Park for the year-round enjoyment of all local residents. 2. Access: Advance safe access, circulation and easy way-finding for all Park Visitors. 3. Resources: Preserve, protect, promote, and enhance the Park's natural, scenic and historic resources. Future: Establish a long-term sustainability plan to maintin the quality of the Park. RECOMMENDATIONS Level of Investment Goals Community Access Resources 46. Add Planting at Picnic Shelter x x 47. Add Fill at Picnic Shelter Parking Lot ` x x 48. Establish an Expanded Active Recreation Court Area x x 49. Add N-S Paths/ Circulation x x
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations Central Section of Park Aerial_ Existing Conditions
Pickleball Courts
Officer’s ROW
Parade Ground
Central Parking Lot (Parking Lot Shown is Not Current- Shown as Displayed in Picnic Shelter Most Recent Google Earth Fly Over)
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations Central Section of Park Aerial_ Proposed Recommendations Diagram
LEGEND Physical Improvement
Circulation (Pedestrian)
Landscape/ Vegetation Improvement
New and Improved Pickleball and Tennis Courts Pickleball Courts Officer’s ROW Tree Planting and New Mowing Practice
Parade Ground Central Parking Lot Improved Park Space- Picnic Area (Parking Lot Shown Uses the Most Recent Google Earth Fly Over with Photoshop Modifications - Shown for Graphic Representation Only, Not As-Built Conditions) New Road Alignment
Landscape Improvements at Picnic Picnic Shelter Shelter
New Lower Park Space at Picnic Shelter
New Park Space- Vendors, Picnic Area, Gathering Area
This Diagram Illustrates in Diagram Form Only the Overarching Recommendations. See Plan for Full Recommendations Descriptions.
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations Central Section of Park Cape Elizabeth Center at FWP Alternative
Tennis Courts
Pickleball Court Pond Tennis Courts
New Facility Maintenance / Parking
Pickleball Courts Playground Outdoor Space
New Facility
Outdoor Sports Field Space
Play Ground Option 4_ Cape Elizabeth Center at FWP at Terminus of Picnic Shelter/ Officer’s Row
Option 4_ Existing Conditions
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations Central Section of Park SOUTH SECTION OF PARK
Pickleball Courts
12 Town Operations/ Playground
13 Sports Field Southwest Preserve
14
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 SOUTH SECTION OF PARK Recommendations
Playground / Maintenance See Central Section for 50. Remove the existing playground in this area and re-locate it to the Recommendations north side of the Children’s Garden to provide a more complete play environment. 51. Re-organize the parking lot to establish more parking in an efficient manner. 52. Establish a node and information kiosk on the edge of the parking lot as both an organizing site element and to display Park information and maps. Central Parking Lot 53. Remove the existing long storage shed (Officer’s Garage) to another Town owned and operated facility. 54. Establish a new and smaller lay down area for the Park’s use. Remove all Public work piles to other Public work facilities.
Southwest Preserve 51 50 55. Remove non-native species from Southwest preserve and establish a trail system throughout the preserve. 56. Provide seating pods along the existing road around the
52 Southwest preserve. 53 51 58 57. Establish a planted buffer along the south property line. 59 58. Establish a new picnic shelter on the east side of the existing 54 See Water Front Section for sports field. Existing Sports Field Recommendations Park Entrance 59.Establish a bus, coach and trolley only entrance off Shore Road to minimize the visual impact of the buses, coaches, and trollies throughout the Park.
55 Existing Lay-down Area Southwest Preserve
57
56
56 57
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ South Section of Park RecommendationsSouth Section Recommendations / Goals Matrix 2021 MASTER PLAN GOALS 1. Community: Prioritize and enhance the Park for the year-round enjoyment of all local residents. 2. Access: Advance safe access, circulation and easy way-finding for all Park Visitors. 3. Resources: Preserve, protect, promote, and enhance the Park's natural, scenic and historic resources. Future: Establish a long-term sustainability plan to maintain the quality of the Park. RECOMMENDATIONS Level of Investment Goals Community Access Resources 50. Re-Locate Playground to Children's Garden x 51. Re-organize Parking Lot x x 52. Establish a Node/ Informational Kiosk x x 53. Remove Storage Shed (Officer's Garage) x x 54. Re-locate Laydown Area x 55. Remove Invasive Species / Trails in SW Preserve x 56. Add Seating Pods x 57. Add Planting Buffer x x 58. Add New Picnic Shelter at Sports Field x x 59. Bus Only Entrance x x
Recommendations_ South Section of Park Aerial_ Existing Conditions
Sports Field
Maintenance Buildings
Playground
Southwest Preserve
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ South Section of Park Aerial_ Proposed Recommendations Diagram LEGEND Physical Improvement
Circulation (Pedestrian)
Landscape/ Vegetation Improvement
See Waterfront Section
Central Parking Lot New Overlook See Central Section Sports Field
New Parking Layout
New Trails in Southwest Preserve Southwest Preserve New Smaller Park Lay-down Area
Bus, Trolley, Coach Entrance and Road to Central Parking Lot
This Diagram Illustrates in Diagram Form Only the Overarching Recommendations. See Plan for Full Recommendations Descriptions. Recommendations_ South Section of Park WATER FRONT SECTION OF PARK
17 Cliff Walk /Cliffside
16 Battery Knoll
Central Parking/ Battery Blaire / Portland Head 18 Light
15 The Green
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 WATER FRONT SECTION OF PARK 60 Recommendations Cliff Walk/ Cliff Side
60. Eliminate the drop-off along Powers Road at Cliffside. 61. Extend the upper Cliff Side walk along the back side of Battery Garesche. Add native plant species in place of lawn along the Cliff
62 Side. 62. Re-set the benches that sit too high to a normal seating height. 60 63. Establish an overlook on the back side of Battery DeHart to capture the amazing views from this location. 64. Re-align the 61 Cliff Walk /Cliffside section of Powers Road that leads to the central parking lot. 64. Re-engineer and realign Powers Road from the Picnic Shelter parking lot to the Central Parking lot. 65. Separate the sidewalk from Powers Road to provide for greater vehicular and pedestrian safety. 66. Plant slope with native species. See Mid-Plateau Section for Recommendations The Greens Battery Knoll 67. Establish a strong entrance to the existing Cliffwalk- Add a
65 Information Kiosk at the trail entrance. Establish a southern section of the Cliff Walk; South of the Portland Head Light through The Greens. 68. Develop an amphitheater on the back side of Battery Blaire’s See Central Section for Recommendations slope facing the water. This amphitheater can either replace or 64 63 complement the existing bleachers in the Parade Ground. 66 67 69. Develop an overlook at the former Gun Shooting Range to 75 capture the long views to the ocean. 76 70. Add loam on top of the existing lawn and re-seed to promote a 77 74 healthy lawn.
72 75 74 77 71 74 Centralized Parking Lot 71. Integrate Greeter’s Shed- Add plant material. Develop an Central Parking integrated Greeter’s Shed and kiosk area both as an organizing site element and to display Park information and maps. Battery Blaire 67 72. Add plant material (Trees and Shrubs) on the edges of parking 73 68 lot to enhance the aesthetics and screen the parking lot. 73. Provide better screening for the portable toilets.
70 Portland Head Light 74. Relocate vendor area to a new hub/ plaza that includes historic interpretation opportunities, gift shop and vendors, interpretation See Back/ South Section for Recommendations The Green kiosks, and seating opportunities. Develop a wide walking promenade from the Central Parking lot and Portland Head Light to this new hub. 69 75. Remove Staff parking from Portland Head light; Handicap parking stalls to remain. 76. Restrict trolley access to Captain Stroud Circle. Provide a gate with sign at the road leading down to the Portland Head Light.
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ Water Front Section of Park RecommendationsWater Front Section Recommendations / Goals Matrix 2021 MASTER PLAN GOALS 1. Community: Prioritize and enhance the Park for the year-round enjoyment of all local residents. 2. Access: Advance safe access, circulation and easy way-finding for all Park Visitors. 3. Resources: Preserve, protect, promote, and enhance the Park's natural, scenic and historic resources. Future: Establish a long-term sustainability plan to maintain the quality of the Park. RECOMMENDATIONS Level of Investment Goals Community Access Resources 60. Eliminate Drop-Off at Cliff Side x x x 61. Extend Cliff Walk at Battery Garesche x x x 62. Reset Benches at Cliff Walk x 63. Establish an Overlook at Battery DeHart x x x 64. Re-Align Powers Road x x 65. Provide Separation between Sidewalk and Road x 66. Plant Slope x x 67. Establish Southern Section of Cliff Walk x x 68. Develop an Amphitheater on Back Side of Battery Blaire x x 69. Develop an Overlook x x 70. Add Loam and Seed x x 71. Enhance the Greeters' Area x 72. Planting at Central Parking Lot x 73. Screen Portable Toilets x 74. Establish a New Park Hub for Vendors and Park Function x x x 75. Remove Staff Parking at Portland Head Light x 76. Restrict Trollies to Portland Head Light x 77. Add Native Plants at Captain Stroud Circle x x
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ Water Front Section of Park Aerial_ Existing Conditions
Central Parking Lot (Parking Lot Shown is Not Current- Shown as Displayed in Most Recent Google Earth Fly Over)
The Greens Battery Blaire
Battery DeHart
Cliff Walk
Portland Head Light
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ Water Front Section of Park LEGEND Aerial_ Proposed Recommendations Diagram Physical Improvement
Circulation (Pedestrian) See SW Preserve Section Landscape/ Vegetation Improvement
Central Parking Lot (Parking Lot Shown Uses the Most Recent Google Earth Fly Over with Photoshop Modifications - Shown for Graphic Representation Only, Not As-Built Conditions) The Greens Improved Overlook Battery Blaire Improved Greeter’s Center/ Kiosk New Amphitheater
New Park Hub/ Node; Vendors, Gathering, Kiosk
Battery DeHart Improved Captain Stroud Circle/ Circulation
New Overlook
Cliff Walk Trail Head/ Kiosk Cliff Walk (See Next (2) Pages
Portland Head Light
This Diagram Illustrates in Diagram Form Only the Overarching Recommendations. See Plan for Full Recommendations Descriptions.
Recommendations_ Water Front Section of Park Aerial_ Existing Conditions of North Section of Cliff Walk Physical Improvement
Circulation (Pedestrian)
Landscape/ Vegetation Improvement Battery DeHart Battery Sullivan
Battery Garesche
Cliff Walk
Recommendations_ Water Front Section of Park Aerial_ Proposed Recommendations Diagram
Battery DeHart
Cliff Walk
Extend Cliff Walk Trail System
Establish an Overlook
Re-Naturalize Area
This Diagram Illustrates in Diagram Form Only the Overarching Recommendations. See Plan for Full Recommendations Descriptions.
Recommendations_ Water Front Section of Park 04 Architectural Recommendations - Cape Elizabeth Center at FWP Alternatives
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Survey Response (from Questionnaire) Schematic Program /Approximate SF
Through the Analysis work with user’s groups and survey the Consultants understand that Potential Interior Spaces 1,750 SF - 2,100 SF the CE community has a desire to have the park more focused on the community. Any Lobby/ Entry Vestibule inclusion of a Facility within the park should be community focused and include bathroom Meeting Rooms facilities. Below are the results from the Survey. Small Museum / History Area Function Room (Rental Potential) Community Room Visitor Center_ 70% No / 30% Yes Medium and Small Sized Meeting Rooms
Permanent Bathroom Facility_ 70% Yes / 30% No Support / Service Interior Spaces 1,275 SF - 1,620 SF Staff Work Spaces / Volunteer Receptions / Offices Maintenance / Custodial Room Value of a Community Focused Facility Storage Mechanical Room Informational Hub for the Community Kitchen / Catering Area Trash / Recycling Community Programs / Event Spaces AV Room Circulation Restroom - Single User, Unisex, ADA Compliant Educational/ Promotional Opportunities Exterior Spaces 1,125 SF - 1,350 SF Museum / Interpretation Opportunity Exterior Storage Exterior Restrooms Exterior Sinks Orientation/ Organizing Element for the Park Total (APPROXIMATE RANGE) 4,150 SF - 5,070 SF Offices - Town/ Staff/ Community/ FWP Committee/ Friends of FWP Note: This is a program listed above is conceptual and shows an approximate range of square foot sizes which is expected to fluctuate depending on location and feedback from the FWP Committee, Town of Cape Income Generating Source Elizabeth, and others.
Possible Scenarios
A child is enrolled in an outdoor education class facilitated by the Friends of FWP, while one parent is playing a Pickleball and another parent and child is walking their dog. There is a historical walking tour that starts at the facility. As people gather, family members are playing on the playground or mucking around on the edge of the pond. Family Fun Day is a sponsoring an event the utilizes the facility.
Fort Williams Park Recommendations_ Master Plan Update 2021 Purpose, Schematic Program, Size Goddard Mansion
New Facility Cliff Walk Parade Ground New Facility
Cliffside Picnic Shelter Battery Knoll Lawn Ship Cove
Portland Head Light
Entrance Central Parking Lot
Option 1_ At Ship Cove Option 2_ At Terminus of Parade Ground
Site/ Park Integration Site/ Park Integration (+) The building location engages a unique part of the Park with a direct access to the Park’s natu- (+) The Building is centrally located within the Park. ral, scenic and historic resources. (+) The building capitalizes on significant and wide panoramic views in this location. (+) Capitalizes the long views to the Ocean. (+) The building and the outdoor spaces establish a strong terminus for the Parade (+/-) The building is highly visible from Powers road. Ground. (+) Potential to nestle the building into the hillside to minimize the visual impact- Potential of hav- (+) The outdoor spaces is able to flow out onto the open lawn areas at the Parade Ground. ing one floor visible on the high side of the slope and two floors visible on low side of the slope. (-) The building is close to the Park’s South property line which may present noise issues with the Function / Program abutting neighbors. (+) The building and outdoor spaces has the ability to serve community events that actively use the Parade Ground such as the Family Fun Day. Function / Program (+) The building’s outdoor spaces can support Vendors. (+) The building is able to support the wedding venue at Goddard Mansion. (+) The building location is highly visible. (+) The building can support and range of education opportunities and programs that relate to the (+) The building location compliments the Picnic Shelter and Kitty’s Point. park; historic, environmental. (+) The centralize location offers a bathroom facility to all visitors. (-) Utilities currently do not exist in this location, but the connection to Town sewer is close. (+) The building is close to parking at Ship Cove. (+) There is the potential to have a separate entrance with the use of Chapel Hill Road. - Useful for nighttime activities. (-) The bathroom facility is weighted to the northern section of the park.
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ Cape Elizabeth Center at FWP Alternatives Parade Ground Picnic Shelter
Children’s Garden Pond Central Parking Lot
Officer’s Row New Facility New Facility
Pond
Picnic Shelter
Option 3_ At the Pond Option 4_ “Middle” Space Between the Pond and the SW Preserve
Site/ Park Integration Site/ Park Integration (+) The Building becomes an integral element to the Children’s Garden, Pond and the Parade Ground- Supports the (+) An new building compliments the existing building pods and establishes a campus of activities in those areas. buildings. (+) The character of the area is a quiet, removed from the busyness of the Park – Feels Community Centered. (+) The building is the “bookend” to the picnic shelter. (+) The views from the building captures the views of the Pond and the long views down the Parade Ground. (+) The building becomes the “middle” space between the Children’s Garden and the Southwest Preserve. Function / Program (+) The building functions year-round- Warming hut/ concessions to the ice rink in the winter Function / Program (+) A small parking lot can be developed close to the building to accommodate accessible parking stalls. (+) The existing playground could remain in place and become integrated into the build- (+) Vehicle access is able to utilize existing road infrastructure and the former gate entrance. ing’s outdoor environment. (-) The ball diamond may have to re-located depending on site and building needs and size. (+) Parking for the facility can utilize existing parking in the area. (+) The building can support a wide range of outdoor activities and programs. (+/-) The tennis courts remain in place in this alternative. (-/+) The Tennis courts need to be relocated. (+) Utilities to this area exist, but need to be updated. (-) The bathroom facility is weighted to the Southern section of the Park. (-) The bathroom facility is weighted to the Southern section of the Park.
DRAFT PLAN - Plan Graphics to be Updated
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ Cape Elizabeth Center at FWP Alternatives Battery DeHart
Pickleball Courts Pond
Central Parking Lot Tennis Courts
Central Parking Lot Battery Blaire
Pond New Facility The Green
Picnic Shelter (New)
Option 5_ Leveraging the Existing Buildings Option 6_ Central Parking Lot
Site/ Park Integration Site/ Park Integration (+) Leverage the existing buildings and re-purpose the Fort’s former Bachelor Officer’s (+/-) The building is close the Central Parking lot Quarters and the Field Officer’s Quarter building. (-) This location may feel like it “tips the scale” towards serving the tourists. (+) Possibly add a small one story building to supplement the campus of buildings. (+) Parking for the facility can capitalize on the parking existing in the central parking lot. (+) The building becomes the “middle” space between the Children’s Garden and the Southwest Preserve. Function / Program (+) The buildings become a campus of buildings serving various Park functions. (+) The surrounding historical resources in this area could support historical interpretation at the building and educational programs. (-) May feel “busy” and crowded with central parking lot close by. Function / Program (-) Bathroom facility serving the tourist population (+) The existing playground could remain in place and become integrated into the build- ing’s outdoor environment. (+) Parking for the facility can utilize existing parking in the area. (+) Utilities to this area exist, but need to be updated. (-) The buildings will need to be updated; possibly elevator lifts will need to be added. (-) Utilizing the second floors of these buildings as a community program space will be challenging from an ADA and size/ function perspective.
Recommendations_ Cape Elizabeth Center at FWP Alternatives Portland Head Light
05 Architectural Recommendations - General
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Architectural Recommendations
A2
A1
A18 A8
A24
A23
A3
A4
A21 A20
A18
A22 A19 A15 A5 A14 A17
A10 A6 A9 A18 A16
A7 A11
A13
A12
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ Architectural Recommendations - General Architectural Recommendations Field Officers’ Quarters (adaptive Reuse) A#6. Exterior- repair any rotting trim on balconies or ramps, maintain regular exterior maintenance- painting, etc. Recommend establishing a maintenance plan moving forward. Goddard Mansion See Site Recommendation # 21_ A1 #21. Determine the appropriate level of preservation and access to Goddard Mansion. Bachelor Officers’ Quarters (adaptive Reuse) Option A (Secure it) - Replace the existing fence with more permanent high quality fencing in the building’s A#7. Exterior- repair any rotting trim on balconies or ramps, maintain regular exterior maintenance- painting, etc. apertures. Consult a Structural Engineer to evaluate stabilization needs for the immediate entry vestibule and steps, and Recommend establishing a maintenance plan moving forward. adjacent overhead structure. Make minimal structural improvements to allow for superficial access to the stoop. Option B (Access to the a Portion of the Interior) - Consult a Structural Engineer to evaluate the stabilization Mining Casemate and structural needs to stabilize the central portion of the exterior and interior of the building to allow for limited and A#8. No changes proposed. controlled access only into the main section of the structure. No access is granted to the barn portion of the structure. Option C (Historic Relic- Front Wall )- Consult a Structural Engineer to evaluate stabilization and structural needs Militia Storehouse (adaptive reuse) to remove all but the front wall of the Mansion to establish an ruin artifact of the past. Establish an outdoor space as part A#9. Exterior appears to be in good condition. Recommend establishing a maintenance plan moving forward. of the wall. Add Interpretive panels. Artillery Engineer Storehouse (adaptive reuse) A#10. Exterior appears to be in good condition. Recommend establishing a maintenance plan moving forward. Batteries and Coastal Fortifications The remaining batteries throughout the Park are in varying conditions and in some locations present safety concerns. Gun Shed (adaptive reuse) Rather than try to restore all of the batteries back to their original condition, we would recommend that a hierarchy of A#11. Exterior appears to be in good condition. Recommend establishing a maintenance plan moving forward. priorities be established, and focus efforts on a select few batteries to be celebrated. This would enable efforts to be focused on restoration and repair efforts for targeted improvements, rather than have energy and funds be split up many Battery Garesche different ways. Priority has been given to batteries that through the analysis and observation receive higher visitor-ship, A#12. No changes proposed. This is not a highly visible battery, but it is in fair condition. traffic, and rea in more accessible areas of the overall Park, these batteries are also still recognizable to their original form. Officers’ Garage A#13. The structure seems to be showing signs of wear. Maintain cosmetic appearance. Consider how this space Battery Keyes is either phased out, or rehabilitated to continue to provide the ample storage it currently houses. Recommend See site recommendations #26_ A2 establishing a maintenance plan moving forward. #26_A2.Determine the appropriate level of preservation and access to Battery Keyes. Option A (Secure/ Restore It) - Add a fence in the apertures and door ways to restrict access to its interior- like Portland Headlight and Associated Outbuildings Battery Garesche. Consult a Structural Engineer to determine how to repair the steps and handrails to provide safe A#14. Appears to be in excellent condition. Maintain routine upkeep. access to top of the Battery. Consider restoring this highly visible and trafficked battery to its former glory. Potential for interpretive signage, use decommissioned battery armaments/artifacts (if feasible) to tell the history. Stabilize Vendor Outbuilding near Head Light areas of erosion along the sides, and over the top. A#15. Appears to be in good condition.
Option B (Removal and Add Overlook) - Remove all or a portion of the battery and replace with a new overlook that Battery Blair reinterprets the battery and creates a safe viewing platform. A#16. This is a highly visible, frequently visited location in close proximity to the Head Light, and serves as a valuable interpretive history location. Recommend some interventions to repair for some areas of erosion on the steps and in Central Powerhouse the patio area near interpretive panels. Potential to celebrate the history further by using decommissioned battery A#3. Discuss overall intention for visitor access to historic buildings. If public should not have unmonitored access, close it armaments/artifacts (if feasible) to tell the history. with fencing, similar to Battery Garesche to preserve the structure, but eliminate risk to the public. Stabilize areas of erosion along the sides, and over the top.
Fire Station (adaptive reuse) Parking Lot Outbuilding A#4. No changes proposed. A#17. Appears to be a newer addition to the campus, recommend at the front of the building that hardscape be considered to evoke a more thoughtfully sited installation. Gravel will not stay in place long term. Bandstand A#5. No changes proposed. Portable Restrooms A#18. Recommend more permanent restrooms somewhere on the campus. See more information in the Community Center pages. Provide more durable, permanent screening options that could also incorporate Park branding and Fort Williams Park signage. Master Plan Update 2021 ARCHITECTURAL LANGUAGE Battery DeHart Remnants A#19. Remove battery pavement areas on Battery Knoll- hazard for tripping. Potential to maintain Establish an architectural language for the campus. Any new construction on campus should clearly differentiate itself from the historical the historic memory- keep an outline of the footprint in pavers. Or, abandon entirely and excavate or fortified buildings so as not to confuse the time period in which they were constructed. Thoughtful consideration should be taken to to allow for new infill and regrading to improve Battery Knoll as an open green space and events the following elements when proposing a new structure in the Park. lawn. Materials: to be congruent with the existing Park building materials palette, provide durable, materials with longevity, easy to care for and maintain from a maintenance standpoint, and be vandalism resistant. Battery Sullivan Remnants, Antiaircraft Command Post A#20. Remove battery pavement areas on Battery Knoll- hazard for tripping. Potential to maintain Color: existing park materials maintain neutral earth tones, sage greens, and deep reds. Future building’s exterior cladding should be in the historic memory- keep an outline of the footprint in pavers. Or, abandon entirely and excavate harmony with existing and adjacent building colors. to allow for new infill and regrading to improve Battery Knoll as an open green space and events lawn. Scale and Massing: scale of any new buildings should not dominate the landscape or existing buildings. Sensitivity to abutting property owners and residential scale sized buildings is of important in the context of the Park. Storehouse A#21. Remove structure to improve the Park’s aesthetics. Orientation & Siting: new buildings should not dominate or overwhelm the existing Park elements and historic buildings. Buildings should be sited for solar orientation, how they would best interface with both pedestrian as well as vehicular traffic, and sited with a focus Pavilion/Picnic Shelter on permanence and longevity. This should be thought of in conjunction with hardscape extents and landscaping. A#22. No changes proposed. Architectural Style: successful additions to the park will be rooted in the context of Maine, while at the same time not mimicking the Battery Sullivan Remnants, Harbor Defense Command Post existing historical context of the historic buildings on site. A#23. Remove battery pavement areas on Battery Knoll- hazard for tripping. Potential to maintain the historic memory- keep an outline of the footprint in pavers. Or, abandon entirely and excavate Maintenance Plan: recommend establishing routine care and maintenance schedules if not already in place. Plans to address deferred to allow for new infill and regrading to improve Battery Knoll as an open green space and events maintenance on site, and prioritize buildings that have deferred maintenance tasks. lawn.
Battery Hobart Remnants A#24. No changes proposed. The remains of this battery are in poor condition but do tie in to the Cliff Walk pathway. They could remain as-is, or be removed to improve the gateway to the Cliff Walk.
Fort Williams Park Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Master Plan Update 2021 06 General Recommendations
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 General Recommendations
Survey Documentation 78. Update survey information. 79. Document above and below ground utilities. 80. Establish a comprehensive digital documentation and archive of all plans, reports and documents.
Erosion/ Safety / Shore Access 81.Establish an Erosion and Control Plan. 81 A. Re-grade, replant, and add “obstacles” (to control access). 82 B. Place fencing in high traffic areas to control access and to allow plant material to grow. 83 C. Develop a policy with the Town’s legal counsel to assess liability surrounding shore access.
Utilities 84. Provide sewer, water main and electrical upgrades throughout the Park. 85. Eliminate the overboard discharge at Portland Head Light. Evaluate the feasibility and costs of adding a low-pressure grinder pump system in the Park to connect the Town’s system at Littlejohn Road.
Amenities 86. Add bike storage/ racks throughout the Park. 87. Add bike lanes/sharrows on Power’s Road. 88. Add electrical vehicle (EV) charging stations in key locations in the Park. 89. Unify signage and graphic standards. 90. Upgrade Fencing / Screening around all Portable toilets
Communication / Cellular Service 91. Consult with a communication consultant / provider to determine a strategy to improve cellular reception throughout the Park.
Dedicated Open Space 92. Establish the entire park as Dedicated Open Space.
Sea Level Rise 93. In the report, Maine Won’t Wait, a Four-Year Plan for Climate Action, by the Maine Climate Council, dated December 2020, the Council recommends that the State commit to manage for 1.5 feet of relative sea-level rise by 2050, and 3.9 feet by 2100. The Council also recommends the state prepare to manage for 3 feet of relative sea-level rise by 2050 and 8.8 feet by 2100. Fort Williams Park should prepare for future sea level rise and the implications at Ship Cove and along the Park’s coast line.
Fort Williams Park Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ General 07 Park Governance/ Management
Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 is paid for by private donations, proceeds Understanding / Analysis from events, and by grants from charitable Recommendation: Establish a long-term sustainability plan to Through the analysis work conducted by the Consultants, Team under- foundations and the national government. maintain the quality of the Park. stands that Fort Williams Park is managed by many Federal, Town and Non Profit entities and funded from various sources. The Friends is governed by a Board of Recommendation Directors comprised of a diverse group of The Consultant Team recommends that the Town of Cape Elizabeth and the FWP Committee establish a long- Below is an Excerpt from the Consultant’s Analysis document. professionals, business owners, community term sustainability plan to maintain the quality of the park. This plan should asses and address the following items; leaders and volunteers. Each board member serves on at least one of six committees • The staffing needs to fulfill the 2021 Master Plan recommendations, 1. Cape Elizabeth Public Works Department (Education, Executive, Finance, Marketing, Responsible for the grounds (e.g. mowing, and plowing,) • The sources and allocation of funding for future park improvements and its long-term maintenance, Resource Development and Volunteer). • The development of a long-term endowment for the maintenance and upkeep of the Park. Revenue from Town’s General Fund The committee activities, business operations • The effectiveness and efficiencies of the Park’s current management strategy involving many organizations and work in the Park is coordinated and playing multiple roles in the Park, 2. Cap Elizabeth Facilities Department managed by a full-time Executive Director Responsible for buildings and facilities within the park and a part-time Office and Development The Consultant Team recommends that the Town of Cape Elizabeth hires a consultant with an expertise in Administrator. Our landscape work is governing and managing large complex parks to assess the effectiveness of the Park’s current management Revenue from Town’s General Fund accomplished by two part-time seasonal strategy involving many organizations playing multiple roles in the planning and upkeep of the Park and to provide landscape gardeners, hundreds of volunteers recommendations on how to best govern Fort Williams Park. 3. Fort Williams Park Committee from throughout Greater Portland, and hired Responsible for special projects landscape contractors (from FFWP Web site). Suistainabilty Plan Revue from Capital Funds The FFWP has successfully developed the on-going Pay and Display Ecology Projects (formerly the Arboretum) and are Definition: Entry Fees for Tour Buses, Vans responsible the upkeep of the projects. A large focus The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level. Facility Rentals is on removing the non-native invasive plant species Avoidance of the depletion of natural resources in order to maintain an ecological balance. Officer ROW Rentals within the park. Vendors Site Fees No municipal funds from either the capital fund or Sustainability has become a buzzword in many fields and organizations who manage resources and plan for the future. Binocular Rentals the general fund support the FFWP’s efforts. When talking about sustainability in general, most people only think of environmental sustainability that addresses Donations Boxes topics relating to ecological balance. The success of the FFWP’s past efforts have been on their ability to secure private donations. As the ad- Like its environmental counter parts, organizations use sustainability planning as a tool to meet the needs of the 4. Portland Head Light ditional project begin to be realized additional funds Responsible for Upkeep of the buildings and property present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. There are three sustainability pillars will be needed for both the implementation and their for organizations to consider; economic, environmental, and social. Theses pillars are informally referring to money long term upkeep. The Portland Head Light (PHL) property is separate from Fort Williams resources, natural resources, and human resources. Park and acquired by the Town in 1994. PHL has its own 501c (3) not for profit corporation and all finances relating to the lighthouse property are 6. Community Service The Consultant Team recommends that the Town of Cape Elizabeth and Fort Williams Park Committee develop a separate from Fort Williams Park. The revenue for PHL is generated ei- Responsible for FWP Coordinator, Greeters and sustainability plan for the Park. ther from the sales at the gift shop or the entry fees to the museum. The Rangers. revenue is carried from the following year. 6. US Coast Guard From 2012 to 2021, PHL has supported a number of projects in Fort Responsible for monitoring Tower, Whistle House, Williams Park which enhance to visitor’s experience. These include Light House landscape bees, expansion of the cliff walk, parking lot and pedestrian improvements a new fencing and stonework at the Shore Road entrance.
5. Friends of Fort Williams Park The Friends of Fort Williams Park (formerly, Fort Williams Park Foundation) was established in 2001 as an independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve and enhance the natural resources and visitor experience of Fort Williams Park by providing planning and stewardship for projects that support the Park’s ecology, accessibility, and open space. Our business operations and any work that we do in the Park
Fort Williams Park Fort Williams Park Master Plan Update 2021 Master Plan Update 2021 Recommendations_ Governance / Park Management