Land Use Opportunities Historically, land uses within the Village •Trails and other safe and acces- of South Orange have been logically sible connections are also necessary organized in relation to one another as for the overall success of land use Ridgewood Road well as the river corridor itself, a trend enhancements throughout the cor- that continues today. The Village Cen- ridor. ter, train station and Middle School are located within a compact urban core In addition to the few major enhance- that is easily accessible from adjacent ments proposed in image 3.07, various residential neighborhoods. Recreation- minor modifications to existing land 9 3 al and utilitarian spaces are located uses can be made to improve one’s ex- 1 5 around the edges of the study area and perience along the river corridor: 4 within the floodplain of the river, taking 2 advantage of space that cannot be built •Creation of park gateways provide upon. direction for users and emphasizes 8 entrances into various parts of the Although South Orange currently has an corridor. effective land use framework in place, •Certain historic structures may be opportunities exist to evolve the cur- rehabilitated to better serve recre- rent land uses that will serve to en- ational facilities. hance one’s experience within the river •Riverbank treatments can be reha- corridor: bilitated. •Access to various public spaces •Portions of the Village Center are along the corridor can be improved. ripe for infill development, specifi- •Focal points and overlooks can be cally around the existing train sta- created for visual interest along the tion and the Performing Arts Center, river. Opportunities 1. Reuse pumphouse as ‘Nature Center’ with mixed use development and •Existing access and parking can be structured parking on undeveloped better integrated into the existing 2. Develop pedestrian/bicycle river crossing sites. land uses. 3. Consolidate DPW site •The underutilized DPW site presents 4. Create focal point area a unique opportunity to consolidate 5. Utilize for recreation public works operations in order to 6. South Orange Middle School dedicate the remaining land for pas- 7. Create Park gateway sive open space, nature study and/ 8. Relocate recreation building, retain play area or active recreation. 9. Provide access from Church Street

30 Concepts Opportunities Village of South Orange, New Jersey East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Existing Woodland

Existing Passive Recreation 21 Existing Ballfield

Existing Tennis Court

Recreation Area Church Street 6 Existing Institutional Uses 20

South Orange Avenue 7 Mead Street 13 Mixed Use Above Parking 2 16 18 Meadowbrook Lane 12 Focal Point Third Street 19 17 Existing Road

14 10 Urban Revitalization Dis- 15 trict Boundary

Proposed Trail Connection 11 Strengthen Existing Trail Connection 10. Define pedestrian access to train station and 17. Create park gateway and new pe- Sloan Street. destrian bridge 11. Consider mixed use/structured parking 18. Reconfigure and beautify parking Enhance Park Gateway 12. Beautify river edge lot to allow for a trail along the river 13. Create greenway and bicycle/pedestrian path 19. Create river focal point area Enhance River Connection to Thrid Street 20. Create an interpretive center in the to Urban Core/Create Ur- 14. Performing Arts Center historic structure ban Gateway 15. South Orange Train Station 21. Park gateway/scenic overlook to 3.07 Land use opportuni- ties plan (RHI, 2004). 16. Improve sight lines/connections Floods Hill

Opportunities Concepts 31 East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey Program Opportunities A wide range of recreational, environ- supplement existing shops, restaurants mental and educational activities occur and cafés. The Performing Arts Center within the study area, however op- can further enhance the user’s experi- Ridgewood Road portunities still exist to create a more ence and provide connections to other dynamic river corridor. Current land use programmatic opportunities through- patterns, resource allocation and his- out the river corridor. The creation of a toric land use patterns give rise to three river-oriented public plaza could an- major programmatic opportunity zones chor this redevelopment in the Village within the study area. Center. 7 2 1 8 The southern portion of the study area The northern portion of the study area 4 has many opportunities related to rec- presents opportunities for preserva- 3 reation, ecological preservation and tion and rehabilitation of historic land- interpretation. Existing recreational fa- scapes as well as maintaining existing cilities in this area are Chyzowych Field, modern recreational resources. Further Waterlands Park, and Farrell Field. This opportunities within the northern por- area is also the most densely forested tion of the study area include engag- and least developed portion of the cor- ing the South Orange Middle School in ridor, creating a suitable area for eco- educational programs related to ripar- logical interpretation via a new nature ian habitats, ecology, local history and center. Underutilized lands at the DPW open space, so that future generations site further enhance this opportunity, of residents may understand the many offering the possibility to study wet- natural and cultural resources extant in lands at the river’s edge. South Orange. Additionally, removing of public spaces and ecological habitats some existing programmed recreation along the river corridor. With leadership Major programmatic improvements space in this area creates the poten- and coordination from public agencies within the Village Center are primar- tial to improve access and relax stream or private, nonprofit groups, stream ily related to enhancing the “sense of bank slopes in certain areas. restoration projects, park clean-up place;” an opportunity exists to create a days, or environmental education ses- livelier, more comfortable and memo- Corridor-wide programmatic opportu- sions can be organized to benefit both rable setting within the rich historic nities include prospects for volunteers the residents of South Orange and the urban context. Additional retail and and organizations to become involved natural and public spaces they use. commercial space can be created to in the rehabilitation and maintenance

32 Concepts Opportunities Village of South Orange, New Jersey East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Existing Woodland

Existing Passive Recre- ation 21 Existing Ballfield

Existing Ball Court

Church Street 6 Potential Recreation Area Mead Street 12 17 19

South Orange Avenue Orange South 5 Meadowbrook Lane Institutional Use 13 16 Third Street Existing Buildings 15 23 23 9 Potential Buildings 18 20 11 22 Existing Road 10 14 Existing Trail

Potential Trail Opportunities 12. Urban infill with ground floor retail 1. River interpretive area 13. Mixed use above parking Improve Crosswalk 2. Nature/interpretive center 14. Existing Baird Recreation Center 3. Ecological/conservation area 15. Urban gateway feature Park Boundary 4. Relocated shelter/picnic facility 16. River-oriented focal point 5. Reconfigure parking for more open space 17. Historic Duck Pond Focal Point 6. Gateway features 18. Accessible parking 7. Pedestrian access to Chyzowych Field 19. Interpretative facility 8. Tennis courts adjacent to Chyzowych Field 20. Existing recreation field 9. Urban plaza 21. Existing Floods Hill Park 10. Existing train station 22. Existing Montrose School 3.08 Program opportunities 23. Remove Existing Tennis Courts plan (RHI, 2004). 11. Performing Arts Center

Opportunities Concepts 33 East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey

The Master Plan 35 East Branch of the Rahway River Corridor Village of South Orange, New Jersey

Goals Vision Statement The East Branch of the Rahway River is the heart of the Village of South Orange, and the rehabilitation of its physical, ecological and hydrological health will evi- 1. Provide safe and continuous pedestrian and dence its importance to our community. bicycle connections along the corridor. We, the residents of South Orange will no longer feel a barrier between ourselves 2. Improve connections from adjacent neighbor- and our river. We will be able to walk up to the banks of our river and touch the water. As often as possible, we will daylight our underground waterways, exposing hoods and land uses; preserve and enhance our river for all to see. Where walls must remain, they will serve as promontories access to recreation. and promenades, offering views along the watershed and focal points to the wa- tershed. 3. Make the river edges accessible, turning the The river will be a thriving ecosystem, filled with native grasses and flowering trees slopes into an amenity. and shrubs, rather than invasive plant species. 4. Expand opportunities for active and passive The banks of our river will no longer erode; a dense mat of roots from native recreation. plants will protect our soil, and the water of our river will be clear. The river and our parks will not appear as utilitarian, leftover spaces, but will be 5. Lead the way for other communities seeking to beautifully designed with plantings, pathways, lighting, signage and comfortable reclaim waterfronts. places to sit. Vistors to South Orange will remember times that they spent strolling the banks 6. Create a unified project aesthetic while balancing of the river after seeing a performance downtown, or after coffee, dinner or drinks urban and natural characteristics. from one of the restaurants nearby. Our children will grow up learning to treasure their river, having learned about fish 7. Preserve and enhance historical features along the and birds, trees and reeds along its banks. They will play along its banks knowing corridor; rehabilitate the historic character of the what a wonderful resource with which they are blessed, and they will teach their corridor. children to treasure the river as well. 8. Improve the ecological and hydrological value of the river corridor. 9. Create a learning environment by maximizing educational opportunities.

4.01 View from the top of Floods Hill 4.02 River view (RHI, 4.03 Southern Trail (RHI, (RHI, 2004). 2004). 2004). The Master Plan Overview 37 East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey Concept Southern Segment Analysis of existing ecological and Despite the Meadowland Society’s ef- Century. Plantings should be ecologi- physical resources of the river cor- fort to save as many acres of riverfront cally appropriate reconstructions of na- ridor combined with input received property as possible from industrial tive wetlands, fields, forest edges and during the public process resulted in a development, much of the land along old growth forests typical of the region. framework concept to guide the plan- the river south of the Village Center A contaminated site north of the recy- ning and design of the river corridor. was used as railroad switching yards, cling center must be remediated before This concept consists of three main pumping stations and Public Works any new uses can be built. areas (4.04): the Northern Segment of maintenance facilities. Although some the corridor will emphasize history and of this land has been reclaimed for rec- recreation, with the historic Duck Pond reational uses, much of the old, indus- and Baird Community Center serving as trial fabric from the early 20th Century 4.06 Stone bridge through naturalized area in focal points; the Village Center area will still exists today. Central Park (Shannon Flores, 2006). be shaped by its relationship with the town center and will be more urban in The master plan calls for reforestation character; the Southern Segment of the and wetlands reconstruction through- corridor will emphasize the intermin- out much of the southern portion of the gling of ecological uses and recreation river corridor (outside of the existing including a potential nature center. ballfields and a consolidated DPW yard). This concept, which draws on the mas- To provide continuity of the entire open ter plan goals, focuses on the continu- space system, built elements should ation of a variety of user experiences 4.05 Pre-industrialization postcard view along the Rahway River. The take on the rustic aesthetic commonly master plan calls for the river corridor to be restored to conditions along the corridor. used in public parks of the early 20th similar to these (Montrose Park Historic District private collection). 4.07 Boardwalk through wetlands in Vancou- Nature Center Historical Center ver, Canada (Russ S. 2006).

Strong pedestrian connection Baird along river corridor Recreation Center 4.04 Concept Dia- gram illustrating the three main elements of the master plan: the Southern Segment focuses on ecology and recreational parks, the Village Center acts as the urban core and Southern Segment: Village Center Northern Segment: 4.08 the Northern Segment Ecology / Recreation Parks Historic/Recreation Parks Magnolia Swamp in West Side Park, provides historic and Newark, NJ, designed by the Olmsted Brothers recreational parks. in the early 1900’s (F.H. Tucker, ca 1921).

38 Overview The Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Village Center Northern Segment Currently, most commercial structures Romantic park design of the late 19th that define the edge between South Century and early 20th Century should Orange’s urban core and the Rahway be the thematic basis of design for River are oriented with their backs to restoration and rehabilitation of the the river, largely ignoring a potentially Northern Segment. Initial major devel- character-defining resource within the opment occurred in the northern por- Village Center. Without dechannelizing tion of South Orange during that time, the river within this urban district, the concurrent with the Public Parks and Master Plan seeks to highlight the river 4.12 Arts and Crafts style architecture at the New Jersey among the built environment, finding Transit rail station (South Orange Record Corp. c.1940). City Beautiful movements in American its architectural precedence from the urban design. Victorian and various only two major structures that face the revival styles popular at the end of the river corridor. 19th Century dominate the Architectur- 4.09 Riverfront development in Providence, al design of homes in neighborhoods Rhode Island (Carol Patton, 2006). New Jersey Transit’s historic Morris and adjacent to the Northern Segment. Essex Line station, built in the 1920’s is a textbook example of early 20th Cen- Implementation of detailing used in 4.13 The metal and brick-clad South Orange Performing tury American Arts and Crafts archi- Arts Center (RHI, 2006). the original construction of the historic tecture. Its horizontal brickwork, broad Duck Pond is a logical starting point arches and hip roofs clad in terra cotta for developing a design aesthetic most tile could serve as inspiration for urban appropriate for this section of the river infill construction or smaller site struc- corridor. Key design elements should tures and furnishings along the river. include decorative floral plantings; ornamental metalwork; smooth, gentle The South Orange Performing Arts 4.14 Victorian style house in 4.15 The Duck Pond has an grading schemes; long, sinuous, flow- 4.10 Center is a metal-clad building whose One of Amsterdam’s many bridges in the South Orange (from Images of Olmsted-like aesthetic. (RHI, ing curvilinear forms such as the edge city (Han Van Gool, 2006). architectural statement would be ap- America., South Orange Revis- 2004). propriately punctuated if surrounded ited by Naoma Welk, c.1880). of the current Duck Pond; and large, by elegant buildings featuring quiet open areas of turf with shade trees and brickwork and tile roofs. The surround- groupings of lush plantings at entranc- ing plaza presents the opportunity for es, borders and along the river. Al- modern, sculptural design using the though urbane in feel, this area should metal and brick used in the older train contrast with the more urban Village station as a design precedent. Creation Center treatments and provide a very of a plaza east of the river can be inte- different experience from the Southern grated with a parking deck to accomo- 4.11 San Antonio’s River Walk: activities ex- Segment’s rustic, woodsy feel. ist at the river’s edge, below the rest of San date more commuters, SOPAC patrons 4.16 “Romantic” park design at Central Park (www.striptm. Antonio’s urban fabric (Al Rendon, 2006). and others. com 2006).

The Master Plan Overview 39 East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey The Master Plan The Master Plan provides a vision, as well as a set of tools and strategies for improving the cultural, physical, eco- Ridgewood Road logical and hydrological quality of the river corridor. The plan places particu- Maplewood lar emphasis on opportunities to re- vegetate the banks and relax the slopes leading down to the river’s edge. The rehabilitation of a more natural flood- Church Street way, with relaxed slopes, and the addi- tion of flood water storage facilities is a principal feature to the rehabilitation project. These new conditions will help prevent erosion while making the river more inviting for people to venture closer to the water. Moreover, the plan emphasizes opportunities to enhance the corridor with new open space at- Third Street tractions and to improve pedestrian and bicycle access and connections Maplewood throughout. The plan also highlights ways in which the river can become a central element in continuing efforts to revitalize the Village Center.

To create a consistent identity through- out the corridor, the Master Plan incor- porates two underlying design prin- river zone and fostering a sequence path materials-will be selected with a ciples. First, native, non-invasive plant of buffered and enclosed spaces with consistent design language in mind to materials will be added to both river a distinct identity. Second, site ele- further establish the corridor’s identity. slopes and open spaces, contributing ments throughout the corridor-such as to plant and wildlife diversity within the walls, lighting, fencing, benches, and

40 Overview The Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan South Orange Avenue Orange South

Ridgewood Road

Mead Street

Meadowbrook Lane

4.17 Village of South Orange Master Plan (RHI, 2005)

The Master Plan Overview 41 East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey Objectives Goal 1: Provide safe and continu- Goal 2: Improve connections from Goal 3: Make the river edges ous pedestrian and bicycle con- adjacent neighborhoods and land accessible, turning the slopes into nections. uses; preserve and enhance an amenity. access to recreation. •Define a network of proposed pe- Urban Conditions destrian and bike routes; all pro- •Maintain the existing road network; •Create promenades with attractive posed routes must be considered improve sidewalks and add side- railings and quality paving. within the context of a larger net- walks where needed. •Add plantings near the top of wall, work. This will reduce the need for such as shade trees, raised planters •Upgrade existing parking lots with or overhanging vines. parking and improve access (see plantings, pervious paving and other •Improve existing lighting. Goal 2). improvements; maintain current •Add overlooks, benches and other •Upgrade existing trails by resurfac- amounts of parking; create better opportunities for gathering. ing, improving grading and drainage access routes from parking areas to •Improve wall aesthetics with a finish and meeting safety guidelines such recreational facilities. that will not impede floodwaters. as AASHTO. •Focus pedestrian and bike improve- •Create a river-oriented plaza and •Install new trails, sidewalks, bridges ments on connections to and within compatible development within the and other elements to link currently the Village Center and to the South Village Center. disconnected routes. Orange Middle School. •Mitigate the appearance of concrete •Upgrade lighting to improve safety •Connect all recreation facilities with outflows. and security; utilize “Dark Sky” light- the continuous pedestrian and bike Slope Conditions trail network. ing techniques. •Relax the river banks by grading •Upgrade pedestrian street crossings •Connect bike routes within the corri- slopes to a gentler gradient. by installing crosswalks, narrow- dor to bike routes beyond the corri- •Install permanent native vegetative ing intersections in key locations, dor, such as the on-street bike lanes cover on banks appropriate to the installing curb cut ramps and imple- in adjacent Maplewood. gradient of the bank. menting traffic calming measures. •Add boardwalks and other trails to •Negotiate rights-of-way or acquire permit access near the water’s edge. key parcels of land, such as the two •Add pathways near the water’s edge service stations in the Village Cen- in select locations. ter, to Create critical pedestrian and •Construct bridges in limited loca- tions to serve as both connections bicycle connections the length of the and overlooks. Village. •Avoid construction of new retaining walls along the river’s edge.

42 Overview The Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Goal 4: Expand opportunities for Goal 5: Lead the way for other Goal 6: Create a unified project active and passive recreation. communities seeking to reclaim aesthetic, while balancing urban waterfronts. and natural characteristics. •Maintain existing recreation facilities and improve access to those areas. •Identify a manageable phasing plan •Establish a set of design guidelines •Make the best use of existing active and establish an organizational for the river corridor, identifying recreation facilities; as existing fa- structure, including a fundraising elements that should be consistent cilities are upgraded, determine the structure to support phasing. throughout the corridor, and ele- best use of each facility and design •Revisit phasing and available funding ments that may be different in vari- to maximize land use while preserv- to determine the best way to move ous zones (for example, urban-style ing the open quality of the corridor. the plan forward, given changing paving such as brick or concrete in •Consolidate inefficient land uses to economic, social and political condi- the Village Center versus histori- create new areas for active or pas- tions; phases may need to be ad- cally sensitive paving such as cobble sive recreation. justed. or stone dust in the Northern Seg- •Preserve natural areas for use as •Maintain a consistent vision for ment). Guidelines should address passive recreation areas. the future of the river corridor; as fences, railings, paving and cross- •Improve passive recreation opportu- changes occur during implemen- walks, walls, plantings, signage, nities of all types; add shade trees, tation, constantly weigh changes lighting and furnishings, such as benches and walkways to enhance against the overriding vision that benches and trash receptacles. the usability of recreation areas. was publicly supported in the Master •Prior to or during the first demon- •Construct active recreation facilities Plan. stration project, identify and adopt a where appropriate; do not construct •Construct demonstration projects set of design guidelines to be imple- active recreation facilities in a loca- that can quickly generate inter- mented immediately. tion whose natural character lends est. Begin with smaller projects and •With each phase of the project, con- itself to ecological preservation. progress toward larger ones. sistently adhere to established de- •Plan phasing to maintain momen- sign guidelines. tum. •Encourage adjacent private develop- •Publicize the rehabilitation of the ment to utilize the design guidelines corridor. as appropriate.

The Master Plan Overview 43 East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey Goal 7: Preserve and enhance his- Goal 8: Improve the ecological study the feasibility of removing torical features along the corridor; and hydrological value of the river the concrete river bottom along the rehabilitate the historic character corridor. channelized portion of the river to create these habitats. of the corridor. Ecological •Create wetlands and vernal pools along the river’s edges to improve •Develop a working partnership be- •Immediately stabilize stream banks habitats for fish, birds and other tween the Village, South Orange that face the greatest threats of animals. Wetlands also cleanse the Historic Preservation Society the erosion, leading to cleaner, clearer waters of the river and create habi- Montrose Park Historic Distric As- water. sociation and other Key Stakehold- •Identify the presence of invasive tats for microorganisms that are ers to agree upon a unified vision plant species throughout the corri- the basis of the river’s ecosystem. regarding historic preservation and dor. Implement a systematic plan to Vernal pools create habitats for fairy rehabilitation in South Orange. eradicate invasive species, especially shrimp, salamanders and frogs. •Install markers for historic sites and Japanese knotweed; eradication may •Filter stormwater before it enters events as part of a corridor-wide be required prior to implementation the river to prevent silt, oil, gas and interpretive program. of other proposed improvements. other impurities from polluting the •Undertake studies to determine •Establish a permanent vegetative river. As projects are implemented, measures needed to stabilize, re- cover for all streambanks within the retrofit existing storm drainage sys- store and/or rehabilitate historic corridor, scaled to the gradient of tems to meet or exceed New Jersey structures. the streambank. Timing of this will stormwater management guidelines. •Stabilize historic buildings facing need to be closely coordinated with •Work with other communities within immediate threats such as structural the eradication of invasive species to the watershed of the East Branch to instability, insect or water damage. prevent further bank erosion. collectively enhance the ecological Incorporate other historic rehabili- •Preserve and protect healthy shade quality of the river. tation or restoration work into the trees throughout the corridor and •Remediate known NJDEP contami- phasing plan as appropriate. Village. Plant new shade trees wher- nated sites within the corridor •Ensure that the design guidelines, ever appropriate. Shade trees lessen •Sequence construction operations especially for the Village Center and stormwater runoff and mitigate ur- to avoid disturbance to nesting Northern Segment of the corridor, ban heat gain. habitats including those of the red address the historic characteristics winged blackbirds and swallows. of those areas. •Create continuous natural habitats along the corridor. Study highly •Implement water quality improve- •Relocate above-ground power lines ments consistent with the intent of to underground conduits throughout channelized areas to determine how to create habitats in these areas; the South Orange Village Stormwater the corridor. Management Plan (Ordinance #6-

44 Overview The Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan 2005). Consider over-treating runoff Goal 9: Create a learning environ- from existing development as a con- ment by maximizing educational dition to provide stomrwater quality opportunities. measures as required by NJDEP.

Hydrological •Partner with local educational in- •Many of the ecological objectives stitutions to determine how those above will have a cumulative effect groups can better utilize the river as of lowering the amount of sediment a learning resource and to determine that enters the river how those groups can contribute (allowing floodwaters to flow as de- to ongoing river rehabilitation and signed by the Army Corps of Engi- maintenance. neers), slowing down floodwaters •Create outdoor classrooms for use and lowering the intensity of flow by neighboring schools. Potential during and after storms. activities include stations for water •Provide routine maintenance as sampling, examination of vegeta- agreed to by the USACE by regularly tion, bird identification, geological removing sediments. and hydrological observation. •Reduce the need to dredge the river •Create a river-oriented plaza in the by mitigating erosion factors . Pro- Village center that can provide a vide a defined toe of bank with venue for lectures, Earth Day cele- boulders and plants. Dissipate force brations and other events that edu- from heavy volumes of water after cate the public on the river’s natural storms with boulders or other ap- and cultural value. Invite the public propriate treatments. to learn by participating in the riv- •Reinforce slopes where vegeta- er’s rehabilitation. tion alone is not sufficient for slope •Establish a nature center in the stabilization; utilize bioengineering Southern Segment of the corridor. methods or joint planting, whereby Provide spaces for ecological inter- plants are intermingled with large pretation. Provide programs that fo- boulders. cus on the unique ecology, hydrol- •Minimize impervious surfaces and ogy and history of the East Branch of maximize groundwater recharge. the Rahway River.

The Master Plan Overview 45 East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey The South Segment 4.19 Master Plan - South Segment

Ridgewood Road

Maplewood 1

A

Church Street Third Street 2 4 8 6 3 10

7

11 5

9

1 Connect trail to Farrell Field 4 Consolidate DPW facilities 7 New pedestrian bridge 10 New ecological park gateway

2 Chyzowych Field recreation area 5 Waterlands Park 8 New buffer area between DPW 11 New promenade plaza area yard and river 3 New pedestrian bridge con- 6 New riparian education area with 9 Reconfigure parking and play- nection to future nature center boardwalk connections and infor- ground at Waterlands Park building mational nodes

46 The South Segment The Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan The southern portion of the river cor- signed and rehabilitated as a wetland opposite side of the river (5,12). As ridor presents the greatest potential environment. The riparian improve- a result of all the proposed improve- for developing new land uses which ments to the river bank (6) will pro- ments to the southern recreation field correspond most immediately to the vide educational opportunities and an area, Third Street will become an im- needs of the Village community. Core “outdoor classroom” to allow students portant gateway by providing access to elements of the plan include the con- to study the ecology of the river cor- the existing playground area and the solidation of the DPW compound in ridor. Boardwalks will provide access to new ecological learning areas. order to improve circulation and buff- the wetland, and informational panels ering from the river edge. In addition, will provide environmental interpreta- Remediation of known hazardous ma- new trails will provide connections to tion and guidance for leisure activities terials is required prior to any new Chyzowych Field and Farrel Field along (6). This effort will allow the Village of construction in or near the north end of Ridgewood Road. South Orange to serve as an ecological the DPW yard. model for other communities seeking The existing pumphouse building next to reclaim riverfronts as educational as- to the DPW compound will be adaptively sets. reused as a new nature center, oper- ated by either the Village or a com- A proposed pedestrian bridge (7) will munity-based organization. A large connect the active recreation areas at portion of the existing, underutilized Waterlands Park with the passive rec- 4.20 Section A: Section at proposed Riparian open space on DPW land will be rede- reation and educational areas on the Education Area, looking north.

Excavated area Waterlands Hill to Church Park Street Existing sanitary main to remain

The Master Plan The South Segment 47 East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey South Recreation Area Alternative 4.21 Site plan show- ing the addition of a youth soccer field Ridgewood Road and three new ten- nis courts.

Church Street A

B

Third Street

48 The South Segment The Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan A B

4.22 (A) Underutilized open space (look- The plan in Figure 4.21 shows a sec- existing recreation fields. In light of pedestrian bridge would provide access ing north). ond scheme for the underutilized open national trends indicating an increase from the existing baseball fields located 4.23 (B) Entrance to existing play area/ space located to the north of the ex- in the popularity of active field sports, to the east. Riparian improvements in open space (looking south) isting DPW grounds (images 4.22 and such as soccer and lacrosse, and the select areas will supplement educa- 4.23), as an alternative to the ecological local popularity of tennis, the plan at tional opportunities at the proposed area shown in the Master Plan (image left includes the addition of three ten- nature center. Proposed woodland trails 4.02). This open space represents a nis courts and a youth soccer field will increase safe access to activities in potentially valuable recreational re- to help accommodate the expansion this recreation area and to the adjacent source in South Orange given its ac- of recreational sports leagues; other parks and fields, including a trail con- cess and proximity to both the sur- types of fields could be installed based nection to Chyzowytz Field, located to rounding neighborhood and adjacent on changing local needs. A proposed the south.

The Master Plan The South Segment 49 East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey The Village Center With direct regional train service be- Church Street tween South Orange and New York City, and with a performing arts center, the Village Center has great potential as a 11 commercial and entertainment district with vibrant public spaces. New rede- 10 velopment opportunities give the Vil- lage an opportunity to create a unique 12 design language that will add cohe- siveness to corridor as a whole. In this context, the river has the opportunity to become a “front door” to the Village and, as a restored amenity, to serve as a catalyst for revitalization. Image 4.24 14 illustrates the potential for public space adjacent to mixed-use development as well as cafes and restaurants The South B Orange Performing Arts Center (SO- PAC) is a key focal point driving this Third Street 13 redevelopment.

South Orange Avenue Currently, the river is highly channel- ized (concrete river bed, concrete walls, and – in one place – passing through a tunnel) as it passes through the Village 14 Center (see images 4.25 & 4.26); con- sequentially, a major goal of the cor- ridor plan is to soften the river edges to foster opportunities for both leisurely enjoyment and recreational activities. Softening the edges will encourage Vil- lage residents and others to approach and access the river more comfortably 10 12 14 and effectively, thus enabling the en- New Ecological park gateway Town Center/redevelopment area New river-oriented plaza joyment of the amenities and activities 11 13 that water can provide. It is important New promenade area Performing Arts Center 4.24 Master Plan - Village Center

50 The Village Center The Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan that the Village embraces the river at its Orange Avenue to the river corridor’s and parking lot, which are to be con- most urban and most natural by un- northern portion. Infill development nected with the South Orange Middle derstanding the full range of assets it along this promenade will strengthen School parking lot to provide additional offers to residents and visitors. the edge of the promenade and fa- open space, a more efficient land use cilitate the creation of new activities, and improved accss to the river and The plan highlights improved connec- such as outdoor cafes and retail. As park at the existing Duck Pond. tions designed to facilitate the transi- it moves farther north from South Or- tions between the urban and the natu- ange Avenue, the pathway on the east- This plan provides an opportunity to ral. Urban promenades will provide a ern side of the river will transition to daylight the river at this location, capi- connection between the urban center a more park like character, passing talizing on a prominent resource within and ecological areas, adding continu- alongside the existing tennis courts the Village Center. Given the long range 4.25 Existing channel at South Orange Av- ity to the currently fragmented access and continuing in the direction of the nature of these improvements, interim enue (RHI, 2004). along the river corridor and especially community pool. On the opposite side recommendationd are included in the into the Village Center. Moreover, the of the river, the corresponding pathway Access Solutions section of the report. promenade plaza area will provide a transitions to a park-like character as it pedestrian connection across South passes alongside the reconfigured alley

12

4.26 Existing pathway adjacent to channel at South Orange Avenue (RHI, 2004).

4.27 Section B: Section through the Rahway River near the South Orange Performing Arts 14 14 Center.

The Master Plan The Village Center 51 East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey The North Segment

Ridgewood Road

Floods Hill Park

D

19

26 18 Meadowbrook Lane20 Mead Street

C

South Orange Avenue Orange South 17 19 25 15 16 21 22 19 24

Baird Recre- 23 ation Center

4.28 Master Plan - North Segment

15 Improve tennis court edge; add 19 Improve pedestrian crossing 23 Improve Path connection from 26 Reconfigure parking lot for more plantings and quality paving Baird Center to pool efficient use, improved access 20 Relax slope area, add new pedes- and additional open space. 16 New pedestrian bridge trian bridge 24 Reconfigure paths adjacent to pool 17 Relax slopes to provide access to 21 Improve connection to Montrose Improve path connection along river channel 25 School and adjacent neighbor- Baird center vehicular access and hood 18 Reconfigure pathways to connect minimize conflicts between ve- to existing duck pond paths 22 Improve pathway along river hicles and bicycles/pedestrians

52 The North Segment The Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Located along the river corridor oppo- ways, new park gateways and improved In addition, new pathways will be added site Floods Hill, the Baird Community parking acess (26) by reconfiguring the along both sides of the river corridor, Center serves as an important focal existing Middle School parking area adjacent to both the Baird Recreation point for a variety of recreational ac- and adjacent parking lot and alley at Center parking lot and Meadowbrook tivities in the Northern Segment. This South Orange Avenue. This area will Lane. The pathway alongside the park- area’s many attractions and existing be connected to the opposite side of ing lot will have a character similar to connections can be maximized by re- Mead Street by an improved pedestrian the one that connects the community configuring the existing pathways and crossing. Pathways will also improve pool and pedestrian bridge, and will pedestrian bridge, providing improved connections between the Baird Cen- provide a link to leisure activities along connections and creating a gathering ter and the existing ball fields, tennis the relaxed slopes of the river. More- space (along the relaxed slope area) courts, and playground adjacent to the over, a small pedestrian bridge will be for leisure activities (17). More space community pool. added here to connect Floods Hill to can be available for improved path- the activities in the vicinity of The Baird Center. The path will continue between the existing residential area, Montrose School, and the baseball fields along- side the commuter rail line. Removal of several tennis courts immediately adjacent to the river has been identi- fied as an opportunity to create a buf- fer between the river and programmed 4.29 Section C: Meadowbrook Lane between recreation space, however the Village Mead Street and South Orange Avenue (look- residents strongly favored retaining ex- ing south). isting recreational facilities, especially the tennis courts. Therefore, all exist- ing tennis courts shall remain and the roadway and river bank will be adjusted to include a pedestrian path.

4.30 Section D: Stream corridor at Meadow- brook Lane (looking north).

The North Segment The Master Plan 53 East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey Phasing The work proposed in this Master Plan will take several years and several mil- lion dollars to complete, and attempt- ing to manage, fund and construct every aspect of the plan at once is not realistic. Phasing for a river and ur- ban park rehabilitation project of this magnitude is crucial when fundraising, planning, design and construction con- Phase 3B siderations are taken into account. Phase 4 Phase 3A This Master Plan is broken down into four major phases (image 4.31), orga- nized to spread costs proportionally over a number of years. Some phases can be further separated to create Phase 5 demonstration projects, which consist of smaller tasks that are planned and executed within a relatively short time frame and a manageable budget to demonstrate the quality and character of the overall improvements, on a small serve as a catalyst for fundraising and Phase 1: Baird Center/Duck Pond scale. Demonstration projects can spark publicity for future phases. The re- The first phase consists of improve- 4.31 Phasing Plan public interest as well as gain attention maining phases are organized from ments to the recreation areas north of from funding agencies, creating the north to south of the project area, but the Village Center and east of the river. potential for the Village to secure funds do not contain any major sequencing The main themes of this phase in- for future, larger phases. constraints. Phases can be initiated as clude creating connections to the sur- opportunities present themselves. One rounding residential areas, reorienting The first phase proposed has the most important note to consider when plan- specific recreation spaces to help im- potential to provide short term im- ning phases, however, is that permit prove circulation and relaxing the river pact on the river corridor. Focusing on requirements and hydrologic studies slopes to allow direct access to the river recreational spaces in the northeast must be taken into account to avoid banks. Phase 1 can be divided along portion of the study area, it provides unnecessary delays and expenses. Mead Street to create two separate the opportunity to be broken down demonstration projects. into demonstration projects which can

54 Phasing The Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Phase 3: Riparian Boardwalk The existing open space, recreational fields and waterworks building presents a great opportunity to transform the southern portion of the Rahway River corridor into an ecological learning center. The existing open space needs heavy excavation, and so this presents a great opportunity to bolster the exist- ing landscape and ensure the ecological future of the corridor. This phase will Phase 5 take long term planning due to intrica- Phase 5 cies with wetland creation, hydrology, waterfowl habitat, and environmental education affiliates. A strong compo- Phase 2 nent of this phase’s implementation is Phase 3B and the reconfiguration of facilities for DPW. Phase 5 Phase 4: Recreation / Nature Center Phase 4 will include future improve- ments to existing recreation fields and Phase 1B Phase 1A connections to the adjacent residential communities and the ecological/wet- land areas created in Phase 3. This should be facilitated with the reconfig- uration of Phase 3B in order to ensure the adequate future trail connections from the nature center areas to the Phase 2: Village Center will be utilized for public functions ecologically restored areas. Phase two involves improvements to the such as concerts, art displays, festivals Village Center. The South Orange Per- and markets. Improving public spaces, Phase 5: Miscellaneous Improvements: forming Arts Center serves as a catalyst consolidating parking to structures and Phase 5 will include upgrading paths, for development of arts activities, pub- opening the river to the Village will cre- signage, lighting, planting and other lic spaces, shops and restaurants within ate a vibrant Village Center. site elements throughout the corridor. South Orange’s urban core. Existing These improvements can be consoli- resources, such as Seton Hall Univer- dated with other phases or implement- sity, historic buildings and café spaces ed as feasible between phases.

The Master Plan Phasing 55 East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey Village Center Access Solutions The urbanized block between South Therefore, the Master Plan calls for a proposed for this site. One of the build- Orange Avenue and Third Street, and 10-12 foot wide greenway strip to be ings currently at this site has an open Church Street and Sloan Street, presents developed now along the river through alleyway through it. Therefore replac- special challenges in terms of continuing the middle of the block, along the west ing this accessway to the rear (and the the connection of the bicycle and pedes- side of the river. This path will be wide NJTransit lot) would be in keeping with trian path along the river, as well as “day- enough to accommodate pedestrian and the character of the original buildings, lighting” the river itself. Yet access to the bicycle travel to and from the destina- slated to be demolished. river greenway through this block, and tions on this block, as well as through- Path 1 leading to the many uses on this block travel. This greenway path will preserve Both solutions indicate connections from (such as SOPAC, restaurants, commuter nearly all parking spaces, minimize dis- the future river-oriented plaza to Third and public parking and retail shopping) ruption of current uses and maximize, Street via permanent access as shown Path 2 is critical to fully realize the Master Plan’s to the extent possible, access to these in the Master Plan, via trail access along vision and goals from transportation positive uses along the river. the west bank of the river. Both solutions Proposed Redevelopment and a river restoration points of view. are desirable and complementary, and This block is almost entirely paved, and Two immediate solutions to construct should be investigated. the river is contained in a box culvert. the river greenway through this block 4.32 Access solutions in the Village Center. To free the river from this culvert would have been identified on the plan at right. require extra space to accommodate the The solutions involve the grant of access floodway, and might be cost-prohibitive. easements by property owners in favor Land acquisition would also be costly and of the Village for public use, public ac- time-consuming. Due to the timeframes cess and for bicycle and pedestrian travel associated with this project, interim – rather than acquiring the land outright. solutions for access, which may become One accessway (path 1) would run along permanent, will be put into place so that the river just to the west of the existing pedestrian and bicycle access along the culvert, adjacent to the building located river corridor can be provided in advance at 102 West South Orange Avenue cur- of daylighting and plaza development. rently owned by B & T Realty and cur- rently housing Gelman Plumbing and Land acquisition will not be necessary if the Reservoir Restaurant, through the access easements with appropriate capi- NJTransit parking lot and upon the ac- tal improvements to ensure safety and cess road for guest parking in the Village ease of use can be successfully negotiat- Mews. The other accessway (path 2) runs ed with developers and owners for a gre- along the east side of a currently pro- enway path to be established along the posed development site on South Orange river. Permanent daylighting improve- Avenue’s south side known as 110 West ments, as well as a more accessible and South Orange Avenue and owned by expansive greenway, may require taking Saiyd Nagim, part of which is now vacant. of the gasoline station on the south side The accessway would presumably run at of South Orange Avenue. grade-level through part of the building

56 Access Solutions The Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Key Design Elements 57 East Branch of the Rahway River Corridor Village of South Orange, New Jersey

Key Design Elements River Bank Types Through careful selection of details, bility and budgetary constraints should Section 1 shows an urban promenade the Village of South Orange can take be key concerns in selection of details. typical of the river edge at the Village on a unique flavor characteristic of its Center. Existing chain-linked fence 1 heritage and its future. Select design Recent revitalization efforts within the will be replaced with ornamental fenc- elements are covered in this section, as Village Center provide an excellent ing, stone faced walls, and piers that 2 the implementation of design details starting point for design guidelines in also act as gateway elements in key will be crucial to the ultimate success of that area. While some details used in locations. Existing wall faces should be the rehabilitation of the East Branch. the Village Center may be applicable to made more aesthetically pleasing as the Northern or Southern segments of discussed in the following pages. 5.01 (above) Plan showing the location of Sec- This section includes general design the corridor, others may require adap- tions 1 and 2. guidelines that should serve as the tation. basis for development of detailed de- Section 2 is located near Cameron Field 5.02 (below) Section 1: View of the river with- and its adjacent passive open space. in Urban promenade gateway. By replacing signed guidelines. The Village should Conditions along the East Branch can the chain link fence with ornamental handrails develop detailed and thorough design be divided into two general categories: Materials used along parkland slopes and adding decorative features, the river will guidelines as one of the first steps of urban core and parkland slopes. These of the river corridor should match or become visible and inviting aesthetic feature coordinate with those use in the Village for pedestrians. project implementation. Items such as two conditions serve to define the char- lighting, railings, benches, trash recep- acter of the river and require different Center, resulting in a consistent design 5.03 (right) Section 2: View of the river in tacles and bollards should be designed yet harmonious design treatments to language throughout the corridor. This a park setting. Relaxed bank slopes allows or selected to coordinate corridor-wide best utilize the corridor. The sections section also illustrates the proposed visitors direct physical contact with the river, turning it into a destination, rather than an and should be consistent within each of below illustrate how these different revegetation and relaxation of slopes. obstacle. the three thematic zones. Aesthetics, conditions might respond to the river This effect is intended to make the river along with ease of maintenance, dura- edge while maintaining a consistent more accessible to the public, and offer identity throughout. a place for leisure, relaxation, and ap- preciation of the river.

Key Design Elements River Sections 59 East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan Village of South Orange, New Jersey Treatments for Existing Urban Walls The plan, at right, illustrates the areas along the urban corridor where existing walls are present; in most or all condi- tions, removal of the walls is not fea- sible due to spatial constraints.

The existing walls are visually unap- pealing and their current treatment is inconsistent with both the historical aesthetic of the Village and the Village’s current revitalization efforts, particu- larly in the Village Center, where most walls are present.

The addition of ornamental fencing, benches, and vegetation will improve the aesthetics of the corridor and en- courage pedestrian access to vari- ous park and Village Center activities. By creating cantilevered overlooks on top of the river wall, pedestrians are provided with areas to stop and enjoy 5.04 (above) Plan showing the locations of urban edges along the river corridor. views along the river. 5.05 and 5.06 Existing concrete retaining wall along the river. Chain link fencing and Wall facades should receive a surface overgrown vegetation makes the river edge treatment that will be more consistent uninviting in some places, and completely with the Village Center’s identity, but inaccessible in others. will not obstruct flood waters. Potential 5.07 and 5.08 Proposed retaining wall im- provements. The river walls are left in place, solutions involve a high performance but the chain link fence is replaced with finish, such as Tnemec (painted on), ornamental handrails. Formal plantings are added and maintained and various niches and stucco or a thin stone or brick veneer. overlooks are added to create stopping points along the corridor.

60 River Edge Treatments Key Design Elements Village of South Orange, New Jersey East Branch of the Rahway River Master Plan