1 AHOSKIE CREEK PARK MASTER PLAN Rebecca Richardson
Transcription
1 AHOSKIE CREEK PARK MASTER PLAN Rebecca Richardson
AHOSKIE CREEK PARK MASTER PLAN Rebecca Richardson Meece Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies East Carolina University August 2007 1 AHOSKIE PARK MASTER PLAN OVERVIEW AND PURPOSES The proposed planning site comprised nearly 74 acres which included 35 acres of FEMA (i.e., Federal Emergency Management Agency) buyout property (now townowned) and 39 acres of land the adjacent to the site that the Town intends to purchase with a CAMA grant. Located in Hertford County, North Carolina, Ahoskie is rapidly changing. In 2000, Ahoskie’s population was 4,523 (http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/37000.html). However, as noted in the 2004 Systemwide Comprehensive Park and Recreation Plan for Ahoskie, NC (Ammirati et al., 2004), the Town’s population was projected to increase nearly 25% or to 5,800 people by 2010. With that growth will come increased demand for public services including recreation and park opportunities. In August, 2006 the Town of Ahoskie contracted with the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies at East Carolina University to provide a site-specific master plan. The purposes of the plan were to: 1. summarize the 2004 Systemwide Comprehensive Recreation and Park Plan for Ahoskie which was based on a needs analysis of the planning area; 2. operationalize the recommendations of that plan by proposing expansion and development of the FEMA buyout property (i.e., Phase I Development); 3. collect local public input on the proposed public recreation developments; 4. identify and locate appropriate recreation facilities and programs for the site; 5. conduct on environmental review of the proposed site; and 6. present a cost estimate of the proposed development; 2 7. present a site plan; and 8. present a 5 year Capital Improvement Plan. SITE ANALYSIS AND ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW Description Location and Size Ahoskie, with an overall land area of 2.7 square miles, or 1,728 acres was founded in Hertford Country, is located in northeastern North Carolina (Map 1). Adjacent counties included Gates on the east, Chowan to the southeast, Bertie on the south, and Northampton on the west. (http://www.welcometonc.com/countrydirectories/Hertford/). The state of Virginia borders the northern side. Map 1. North Carolina, Hertford County, and Ahoskie (www.rootsweb.com/~nchertfo/statemap, Hertford County from www.wikepedia.com, Ahoskie from www.ahoskie.gov) 3 Current Property Use The planning site included FEMA flood buyout property consisting of 35 acres and 39 acres of adjacent land owned by the Town, totaling nearly 74 acres (Map 2). As of 2006, the planning site was not used by the public on a daily basis, but was used once a year as a site for the Ahoskie Heritage Festival. The site has been cleared of trees and vegetation with some previously existing paved roads still present throughout. Topography Ahoskie and Hertford County were located in the northeastern part of North Carolina on generally flat land. Ahoskie’s average elevation was 60 feet above sea level. The county was characterized by broad sandy ridges and ridge tops (http://www.topozone.com/map). 4 Map 3: Buyout Property Map (Ahoskie Planning Department 2007) Property Boundaries 5 Soils Two different soil types and twelve sub soil types were identified in Ahoskie; the two soil types included: (1) Craven-Leaf-Caroline, and (2) Wilbanks soils. Wilbanks soils were found in the southern region of Ahoskie within the Ahoskie Creek area and included the planning site. Located in the planning site, were five sub-type soils including: (1) Bibb Soils (BB), which is poorly drained and poorly suited for most urban and recreation use because of flooding and wetness; (2) Seabrook Loamy (Se), which is moderately well drained soil and poorly suited to recreation use due to wetness and rapid permeability increasing the hazard of flooding; (3) Leaf Loam (LF), which is poorly drained and poorly suited to most urban and recreational use due to slow permeability and wetness as main limitations; (4) AltaVista Fine Sandy Loam (AtA), which is moderately well drained and suited to most recreational uses; and (5) Conetoe loamy sand (CoB), which is well drained soil on stream terraces and poorly suited to most urban and recreation uses (USDA, Soil Conservation Survey of Hertford County, 1984). Fauna and Flora 6 Due to its relatively small geographic size (2.7 square miles), the Town of Ahoskie was characterized by a limited diversity of plants and animals. Several species were common to bottom land sites such as this, however, due to clearing most of these were not present at this time. Species common to bottomland sites were presented in Table 1. As shown in Table 2, there were two animal, five mollusk, and one crustacean species classified as threatened (T), endangered (E), significantly rare (SR), proposed or of special concern (P) in Hertford County (http://www.fws.gov/nc-es/es/countyfr.html). There were no species of concern located within the planning site. Table 1. Plant and Wildlife Species in Hertford County (2006 Preliminary Engineering report for wastewater study by The Wooten Company) Common Name Scientific Name Common Name Alewide Herring Alosa sapidissima American Beech Fagus grandifolia American Robin Bufo americanus American Sweet Gum Liquidambar styraciflua American Shad Alosa sapidissima Autumn-Olive Elaeagnus umbellata Atlantic Sturgeon Acipenser oxyrhynchus Beggerweed Desmodium tortuosum Black Crappie Pomoxis nigromaculatus Bluestem Andropogon gerardii Blue Jay Cyanocitta cristata Crabapple Malus spp. Blueback Herring Alosa aestivalis Eastern Red Cedar Juniperus virginiana Bob White Quail Colinus virginianus Flowering Dogwood Cornus florida Carolina Chickadee Parus carolinensis Goldenrod Solidago sp. Carolina Thistle Cirsium carolinianum Grama Bouteloua curtipendula Carolina Wren Thryothorus ludovicianus Hawthorn Crataegus sp. Eastern Box Turtle Terrapene carolina carolina Loblolly Pine Pinus taeda Eastern Cottontail Rabbit Sylvilagus floridanus Northern Red Oak Quercus rubra Gray Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Red Maple Acer rubrum Hickory Shad Alosa mediocris Russian-Olive Elaeagnus angustifolia Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides Smartweed Polygonum sp. Mallard Duck Anas platyrhynchos Tulip Poplar Liriodendron tulipifera Fauna Scientific Name Flora 7 Mink Mustela vison Water Oak Quercus nigra Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura Wheatgrass Elytrigia elongata Muskrat Ondotra zibethicus White Oak Quercus alba Oppossum Didelphis virginiana Wild Millet Panicum miliaceum Red Fox Vulpes vulpes Wild Rice Zizania aquatica Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia Striped Bass Morone saxatilis Tufted Titmouse Parus bicolor White-tailed Deer Odocoileus virginianus Wood Duck Aix sponsa Yellow Perch Perca flavescens Table 2. Threatened and Endangered Animals and Plants (http://www.fws.gov/nc-es/es/countyfr.html) Common Name Scientific Name State Status Federal Status Vertebrates: American eel Red-cockaded woodpecker Anguilla rostrata Picoides borealis FSC E Current Historic Invertebrate: Chowanoke crayfish Orconectes virginiensis FSC Current Mollusk: Triangle Floater Alewife Floater Eastern Lampmussel Tidewater Mucket Eastern Pondmussel Alasmidonta undulate Anodonta implicate Lampsilis radiate radiate Leptodea ochracea Ligumia nastua T T T T T State Key: Definitions of Federal Status Codes: E = endangered. A taxon "in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range." T = threatened. A taxon "likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range." P = proposed. A taxon proposed for official listing as endangered or threatened. C = candidate. A taxon under consideration for official listing for which there is sufficient information to support listing. (Formerly "C1" candidate species.) FSC = federal species of concern. A species under consideration for listing, for which there is insufficient information to support listing at this time. These species may or may not be listed in the future, and many of these species were formerly recognized as "C2" candidate species. T(S/A) = threatened due to similarity of appearance. A species that is threatened due to similarity of 8 appearance with other rare species and is listed for its protection. These species are not biologically endangered or threatened and are not subject to Section 7 consultation. EXP = experimental population. A taxon listed as experimental (either essential or nonessential). Experimental, nonessential populations of endangered species (e.g., red wolf) are treated as threatened species on public land, for consultation purposes, and as species proposed for listing on private land. Definitions of "Record Status" qualifiers: Current - the species has been observed in the county within the last 50 years. Historic - the species was last observed in the county more than 50 years ago. Obscure - the date and/or location of observation is uncertain. Incidental/migrant - the species was observed outside of its normal range or habitat. Probable/potential - the species is considered likely to occur in this county based on the proximity of known records (in adjacent counties), the presence of potentially suitable habitat, or both. Archaeological and Historic Sites Though there were six historic sites identified in Ahoskie on the National Register of Historic Places. There were no archaeological or historic sites located within the planning site (http://www.nationalregisterofhistoricplaces.com/nc/Hertford/state.html). Hydrology Water Resources Ahoskie was located within the Chowan River Basin with major sources of water including the Chowan River, Meherrin River, and the Wiccacon River. Major creeks and swamps in Hertford County were: Ahoskie Creek, Bear Creek, Cutawhiskie Swamp, Chinkapin Swamp, Deep Swamp Branch, and Potecasi Creek. Ahoskie Creek bordered the planning site on the southwest side. The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality (NC DENR, 2003) classified the quality of Ahoskie Creek as C, NSW which means that it is fresh water, supports aquatic life and secondary recreation use, but it is also nutrient sensitive (i.e., it requires control of both point and non point pollution sources). 9 Table 3: Water Quality in Ahoskie, NC (NCDENR 2004) Water Resource Classification Ahoskie Creek C, NSW Chowan River B, NSW Meherrin River B, NSW Wiccacon River C, NSW Key: C- Aquatic Life, Secondary Recreation, Fresh NSW- Nutrient Sensitive Waters. Supplemental classification intended for waters needing additional nutrient management due to their being subject to excessive growth of microscopic or macroscopic vegetation. In general, management strategies for point and non-point source pollution control require control of nutrients (nitrogen and/or phosphorus usually) such that excessive growths of vegetation are reduced or prevented and there is no increase in nutrients over target levels. Management strategies are site-specific. B- Waters used primarily for recreation and other uses suitable for Class C. Primary recreational activities include swimming, skin diving, water skiing, and similar uses involving human body contact with water where such activities take place in an organized manner or on a frequent basis. There are no restrictions on watershed development or types of discharge. Floodplains The proposed planning site was located within a flood zone. Recent information regarding floodplains in Hertford County was not available, however, confirmation 10 regarding the proposed development site was provided by a United States Department of Agriculture District Specialist (Appendix A p. 35) (Paul Boone, personal communication, 2007). Existing Structures The only existing structures located on the planning site were a pump station and two houses; the houses were in the process of being acquired for demolition. (Dennis Everett, personal communication, 2006). Utilities Utilities already existed within the planning area. Utility lines run from highway 42 through the pump station located on the property (Dennis Everett, personal communication, 2006) Permits Required Two specific state-issued permits will be needed to develop Phase I: a sedimentation and erosion control permit and a state 401 permit. If building within 75 feet of Ahoskie Creek a permit will be required from CAMA. Permits required from the Town of Ahoskie will include building, electrical, and plumbing. Proposed Facilities and Site Clearing Phase I and II Development of the proposed site will encompass 74 acres. The site has already been cleared. Phase I will be built with funds from the PARTF Grant (if approved) and will be developed between 2007 and 2009. Phase II will be developed between 2009-2011. 11 Table 4. Phase I Proposed Structures Structures 2007-2009 Measurements/Acreage Baseball/Softball Fields with lighting and fencing (3) 1- 200’ radius, 2- 300’ radius (6.75 acres) Concession/Restroom building (2) 24’ x 40’ (2) (.04 acres) Parking Lot (200 car) 450’ x 200’ (2.06 acres) Picnic Shelter (5 with tables and grills) 13,920 sq. ft. (.32 acres) Football/Soccer Multipurpose Field with lighting and fencing (3) 1- 180 yds x 360 yds, 1- 150 yds x 270 yds, 1- 165 yds x 360 yds (3.78 acres) Horseshoe Pits (2) 40’ x 6’ (2) (.01 acres) Beach Volley Ball (2) 50’ x 79’ (2) (.18 acres) Playground (2-5 years old) (8) 50’ x 60’ (8) (.55 acres) Amphitheater (400 person seating capacity) 4,000 sq. ft. (.09 acres) Total acres 13.78 acres Phase II Proposed Structures 2009-2011 12 Pond (Approximately .75 acres) Walking/ Biking Trail .5 miles, 6’ wide (.36 acres) Outdoor Basketball Courts (2) 50’ x 80’ (2) (.18 acres) Parking Lot (75-100 cars) 22,050 sq. ft. (.51 acres) Skate Park 6,000 sq. ft. (.14 acres) Total acres 1.94 acres No structures will be built within 100 feet of Ahoskie Creek that runs adjacent to the park. COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT The following summaries were based on the collection and analysis of data and information presented in the 2004 Systemwide Comprehensive Recreation and Park Plan for Ahoskie, North Carolina (Ammirati et al., 2004). Summary of Community, Resident Socio-demographics, and Projected Population Growth Ahoskie was located in Hertford County in the Northeastern Region of North Carolina. It encompassed 2.7 square miles or 1,728 acres. The county seat was located in Winton (http://www.rootsweb.com/~nchertfo/). Hertford County was surrounded by Bertie County to the south, Northampton County to the northwest, Gates County to the northeast, and Chowan County to the southeast. The largest city of 200,000+ near Ahoskie was Norfolk, VA (http://www.city-data.com/city/Ahoskie-North-Carolina.html). Hertford County’s transportation system included highways I-95 and I-64, and state routes 42, 11 and 13 (http://www.vergie.com/ahoskie.html). The town has 26 churches, three public schools, and three private schools. Between 1980 and 2000, Ahoskie’s population had grown slower then the state and the nation; however the town’s population was expected to increase through 2010. In 13 2000 Ahoskie had a higher percentage of female households without husbands present than the county, North Carolina, and the United States. The per capita and household income levels in Ahoskie were significantly lower than the state and nation. A noticeably lower percentage of persons in Ahoksie have college degrees when compared to the state and nation. Nearly one-third of the population in Ahoskie was 55 and older. The percentage of disabled persons in Ahoskie and the county was significantly higher than the state and nation. Summary of Existing Public Recreation Opportunities Existing Facilities and Programs An inventory of existing recreation and park opportunities in the planning area identified numerous recreation opportunities offered through the public, quasi public, non-profit, and private commercial sectors in Ahoskie, and the three public schools serving Ahoskie. Ahoskie has three Neighborhood Parks, one Community Park, and three public schools which were classified, as Metro/District Parks. In 2006 there were six historic sites within Ahoskie, all of which were registered with the National Register of Historic Places. Condition of Facilities The conditions of Ahoskie’s public recreation sites and facilities, including public schools, were evaluated on the basis of maintenance, vandalism, user impact on vegetation, and soil limitations. When all categories were totaled the highest possible score was a “12”, meaning that the overall condition of the park was “good”. The lowest possible score was a “4”, indicative of “severe impact” (2004 Systemwide Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Plan for Ahoskie, North Carolina). 14 All nine public recreation sites and facilities, including public schools, were evaluated. Of those sites, two (i.e., Bearfield Primary, Hetrford County High School) received a perfect score of “12”. The Recreation Center Park and Ahoskie Elementary School received a “low impact” rating of 11. Wood Park, Julius W. Futrell Memorial Park, H.D. Cooper Park, Bridge Park and Freddie Hall Memorial Park all received scores between 7-9, and were placed in the “moderate impact” category. The average of all nine sites was 10.7, which meant that overall, the recreation sites and facilities in Ahoskie were experiencing “low impact” and in overall good condition. Summary of Comparisons Ahoskie’s recreation facilities and parks were inventoried and compared with state standards and towns of similar size (i.e., population was the only criteria used). Based on these comparisons, there was a significant need for more recreation opportunities in the planning area. Based on these state standards, Ahoskie was not meeting either acreage of facility standards. Additional Neighborhood Parks, Community Parks, and a swimming pool, are needed to meet those standards. It barely met state standards for softball fields and a community center. With the projected 2010 population increase, it will soon exceed standards for those facilities as well. In comparison with towns of similar size, Ahoskie was lacking in tennis courts, baseball/softball/soccer fields, and walking trails. Neither one of the communities it was compared with (i.e., Erwin and Zebulon) had a swimming pool or fishing areas. Summaries of Public Input on Overall Community Recreation Needs The general recreation needs of the community were addressed in: (1) a meeting with the Ahoskie Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, (2) two public meetings, (3) a 15 random telephone survey, and (4) a school survey. Data collection methods and the minutes of all meetings were presented in the 2004 Systemwide Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Plan for Ahoskie, North Carolina (Ammirati et al., 2004). Park and Recreation Advisory Board Meeting Summary: The Advisory Board recognized that residents were not totally satisfied with the recreation activities and facilities that are currently offered by the Ahoskie Parks and Recreation Department. Barriers included: lack of facilities, lack of time (baseball), distance traveled to facilities, and cost (baseball). Recommendations to overcome these barriers included: more fields, lighting fields for night play, and building new/more facilities. Public Meetings Summary: Two public meetings were held in Ahoskie on February 24 and 26, 2004. A copy of the questionnaire used at the meetings was included in the Appendix (pg. 74) of the 2004 Systemwide Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Plan for Ahoskie, North Carolina (Ammirati et al., 2004). Participants at the meetings were asked to identify barriers to recreation participation in Ahoskie. They included: small, poorly developed, not centralized, have very little involving exercise such as walking and jogging. Residents also identified programs and facilities they would like to see in Ahoskie; these included a bowling alley, centralized sport facility, indoor sports, and a swimming pool. 16 Telephone Survey Summary: A telephone survey was completed as part of the previously cited 2004 Systemwide Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Plan. The survey found that participation in recreation activities within Ahoskie was very low; less than 36% of respondents participated in recreation in Ahoskie. The top three recreation activities which respondents participated outside of Ahoskie were: basketball, baseball, and bowling. The top five recreation activities that respondents participated in Ahoskie were: walking, swimming, tennis, football, and baseball. Citizens of Ahoskie said they would like to see a diversity of recreation facilities developed. The facilities mentioned most frequently include: youth programs, swimming pool, bowling, walking trail or track, tennis courts, and roller skating. Youth programs and a swimming pool were clearly most popular. The majority of respondents (75.4%) would be willing to pay user fees for the facilities and programs they want developed in Ahoskie, while 82.1% would be willing to support tax dollars being used to provide these facilities or programs. The survey found that the most frequently identified barriers to participation among respondents were: health/disability, time, age, work, and availability. School Survey Summary: A public school survey was also conducted as part of the previously cited 2004 Systemwide Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Plan. Students enjoyed a variety of activities in their free time. The top five were: hanging out with friends, basketball, running/walking, football, and swimming. Respondents were asked to rank the use of school and recreation facilities in order of most used to least used and these included: Hertford County High School, The Recreation Center, Bearfield Primary, 17 Ahoskie Elementary School, Freddie Hall Memorial, Bridge Park, H.D. Cooper Park, Wood Park, and Julius W. Futrell Park. The tope five activities students participated in were: basketball, baseball/softball, flag football, and open gym/free time, and crafts. Respondents were asked to list three recreation activities they would like to see in Ahoskie and the top five included a: mall, bowling alley, theme park, basketball, and swimming. Public Meetings on the Proposed Development of the FEMA Buyout Property Public input on the proposed development of the 74 acre property was gathered through two public meetings held at Ahoskie City Hall. The meetings were advertised by the Roanoke Chowan News Herald (Appendix B p. 36). The first was held at 6:00 pm on Tuesday November 14, 2006; 15 residents attended. All 15 participants were Caucasian. A draft site plan including facilities was presented to the participants. Participants voiced concern regarding the proposed development. Some of the concerns included: noise pollution, light pollution, increase in traffic and security issues. Strong opposition was noted in regards to development of a skate park in the designated area. Concerns regarding the development of a skate park included: noise, security, and safety. The second meeting was also held at City Hall at 6:00 pm on Thursday November 16, 2006; 28 residents attended. Nineteen participants were Caucasian while nine were African-American. A draft site plan including facilities was presented to the participants. The majority of participants present were in favor of the proposed development with some participants still concerned with issues regarding the increase in traffic as a result of development. Participants voiced comments regarding the need for the 18 development as well as support for the proposed site plans. Concern for the development of a skate park was again voiced and removal of the skate park from future development plans was suggested. Summary: Of those present at the meetings, 32 indicated they would use the proposed park, while 7 indicated they would not use the park. Thirty-three individuals stated they would support development of the proposed park, while 5 individuals stated they would not support development of the park. Other recommendations are presented in Table 5. Table 5. Preferred Recreation Opportunities Listed by Public Meeting Participants Response # of Responses Walking/Biking Trail 28 More Baseball Fields 2 More Soccer Fields 2 Amphitheater 1 Tennis Courts 2 Pool 3 Picnic Shelter w/tables 6 Go Cart Track 3 Volleyball Court 2 Basketball Court 1 Bleachers 1 Duck Pond 3 Gymnastics Area 1 19 Petting Zoo 1 Batting Range 1 Playground 1 Horseshoe Area 1 Other comments voiced by public input participants were: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Would the town provide security in off hours? Would the property be gated if not in use? How many nights of the week would the lights be burning? This is a good first start Park is desperately needed The facilities we have at this time are not enough It is very difficult to obtain usage of the fields during the season Basketball courts are not needed More baseball fields are needed Try to protect the neighborhood from excessive traffic and noise Amphitheater needed is questionable- it would be recommended against the amphitheater Football, soccer, softball baseball fields are the most needed and wanted All traffic should be channeled on Evans St. I would like to see traffic kept out of the neighborhoods Open up ditch so water will move- make a cul-de-sac so truck traffic can turn around near ditch Prefer the quiet neighborhood we have now I do not feel an amphitheater is necessary. Supply some barriers such as a cul-de-sac at the end of Camlin and Stokes St. I do not think outdoor basketball courts are needed Ahoskie needs this bad! We don’t have the room for the amount of kids we have which is a good problem to have Cut out Phase II and add to Phase I I have coached for the last 10 years in the Town of Ahoskie and we desperately need this. We don’t have enough fields to practice or play on now. We are behind other Towns because lack of facilities and this is needed for our kids and the future of Ahoskie. If they are active in sports, it will keep them out of trouble. Phase I is needed, but Phase II is not as desirable. More of Phase I fields 20 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • As a property owner I have concerns about traffic, safety, lighting, and property value Good idea and concept, please think of the property owner when making next proposal I feel that Ahoskie needs something like this to attract people to our area We need something positive like this for our youth I would like our children to have better opportunities to excel in any area of sports they choose Facility that the boy scouts could use This could help kids have positive activities instead of getting caught up in drugs and bad habits More baseball and softball fields Nothing should be built near people’s residences We need more to offer to Ahoskie residences Add more softball and soccer fields Town needs this project! Skate park toward back of the park – please This would be great for Ahoskie. I want to have benches throughout the park Do as you see fit- you can’t please everyone Would like to see a place kids can go and learn sportsmanship and teamwork. Would like to parental involvement to staff the facility so there is a since of ownership Need bigger fields to support events now Teams now go all year with only one practice because of field time this would increase friendships and team honor We have great kids in this area, but we don’t have great facilities Great idea Concerned with traffic flow into facility and policing after hours Only allow cars in parking area, gate off everything so cars can’t get back there at night Do not allow traffic in neighborhoods Keep it lit up at night, keep it safe I want to be able to take my children to play and not hear bad language Want a safe and secure area, with controlled entrances and roads, we want it to be an extension of Evans St. and not from Memorial, Stokes, and Camlin street Skate park should be as far away from residence as possible I think the lighted ball fields should be far from residences This park is ideal for this area, so many parents drive out of the area for kids sports I’m glad we are moving forward in this project 21 In summary, the above comments, though not unanimous, indicated a demand for: more youth activities, sport facilities (e.g., baseball, softball, soccer, basketball) security and safety, lighting, and a concern for the impact of traffic and park development on nearby neighborhoods. RECREATION FACILITIES AND PROGRAMS DESCRIPTION Facility Description Development of the proposed planning site encompassed 74 acres. It will occur in two stages (i.e., 2006-2009 and 2009-2011). The first stage (2006-2009) will include the following facilities: • • • • • • • • • • • Concession Stand with Restrooms (2) Football/Soccer Multi-Purpose Field (180 yds x 360 yds) (1) o with lighting and fencing Football/Soccer Multi-Purpose Field (150 yds x 270 yds) (1) o with lighting and fencing Football/Soccer Multi-Purpose Field (165 yds x 360 yds) (1) o with lighting and fencing Baseball/Softball Fields 200’ radius field (1), 300’ radius fields (3) o With lighting and fencing Amphitheatre (400 person seating capacity) (1) Playground (2-5 yr olds, 50x60 ft) (8) Horseshoe Pits (2) Beach Volley Ball (2) Parking lot 450’ x 200’ ( 200 vehicles) Picnic Shelter (5 with tables and grills) The second stage (2009-2011) will include the following facilities: • • Outdoor Basketball Courts (2-50x84) Walking/Biking Trail (1/2 mile long, 4-6 ft wide) 22 • • • Parking (75-100 cars) Pond Skate Park Future Additions and/or Developments (i.e., post 2011) might include: • • Tennis Courts (3-36x78 ft) Par 3 Golf Course Program Description Programs using the above facilities (i.e., first stage and second stage) will include: Youth Baseball Softball Cheerleading Soccer Nature Study Concerts Basketball Hiking Football Walking Special Events Skating Adults/Seniors Soccer Basketball Walking Concerts Jogging Photography Softball Hiking Biking Special Events Nature Programs Baseball People with Disabilities Nearly all programs cited above can be provided for individuals with disabilities through adaptation of rules, equipment, and/or facilities (e.g., softball and buddy ball for those with physical or mental disabilities, beep ball for visually impared, wheelechair basketball, etc.) 23 Summary Development of the proposed planning site through 2011 will significantly assist Ahoskie on meeting and providing for the recreation needs of all citizens in the planning area. This master plan will provide both documentation and guidelines for action. With the anticipated growth of the area, implementation of this plan will be fundamental to providing citizens with a higher “quality of life” 24 23 COST ESTIMATES Cost estimates for the proposed development of the proposed planning site were listed in Table 6. Personal communication regarding cost estimates and invoices are included in Appendix C (p.37). Table 6. Ahoskie, NC Cost Estimates for Phase I of Proposed Development of FEMA Buyout Property Project Elements Unit Unit Cost Total Estimated Costs * Concession Stand/ Restroom Fencing of Complex Dugouts Field Lighting Field Irrigation Infield Mix Bermuda Outfield Fill Dirt Portable Bleachers 21’ Transport Kit for Bleachers Portable Bench w/o Backrest Portable Soccer Goal Backstop 40’ Wood Amphitheater 24’x22’ Park Shelter, Steel** 2-5 yr. old Playground Engineered Wood Fiber Installation of Wood Fiber Sand Volleyball Court Horseshoe Pit Grill Wood Top Picnic Table 2 1 8 1 1 34 tons 1 1 14 1 6 6 4 1 5 8 8 8 2 2 5 10 $51,000 $113,500 $3,274 $812,000 $140,000 $60 per ton $127,000 $393,750 $3,588 $536 $224 $921.50 $1,556 $21,420 $5,886 $12,083 $1457 $940 $8,000 $500 $379 $454 $102,000 $113,500 $26,192 $812,000 $140,000 $2040 $127,000 $393,750 $50,232 $536 $1,344 $5,529 $6,224 $21,420 $29,430 $96,664 $11,656 $7,520 $16,000 $1,000 $1,895 $4,540 Total for Project Total PARTF Grant Request $1,970, 472 $500,000 *These estimates, were based on unit prices included in Appendix C (p.29). Note that in cases where more than one unit was planned, the cost was calculated based on multiple units. **Additional fees for installation may apply. 24 TOWN OF AHOSKIE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 REFERENCES Ahoskie, North Carolina. Retrieved February 20, 2004 from http://www.citydata.com/city/Ahoskie-North-Carolina.html Ahoskie, North Carolina. Retrieved February 20, 2004 from http://www.vergie.com/ahoskie.html Ahoskie, North Carolina, Map. Retrieved July 30, 2007 from www.ahoskie.gov Ammirati, A., Colistra, C., Grandy, T. (2004). Systemwide Comprehensive Park and Recreation Plan for Ahoskie, NC. Hertford County, historic information. Retrieved November 2, 2006 from http://www.rootsweb.com/~nchertfo/ Hertford County, Map. Retrieved July 30, 2007 from www.wikepedia.com Horseshoe Pit Construction Cost Estimate. Retrieved August 1, 2007 from http://webs.directcon.net/harris/CONSTRUCTION.html National Register of Historic Places. Retrieved November 2, 2006 from http://www.nationalregisterofhistoricplaces.com/nc/Hertford/state.html North Carolina Division of Water Quality (2003). Chowan River Basin. Retrieved February 24, 2004 from www.h2o.enr.state.nc.us/bims/reports/basinsandwaterbodies/hydrochowan.pdf North Carolina, Map. Retrieved July 30, 3007 from www.rootsweb.com/~nchertfo/statemap Sandorfi, C.C. (2005). Volleyball Construction Cost Estimate. Retrieved August 1, 2007 from http://www.volleyballmag.com/archive/instruct/1995/court.html Topozone, topography, Retrieved October 25, 2006 from http://www.topozone.com/map U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved October 25, 2006 from http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/37000.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Hertford County. Retrieved November 2, 2006 from http://www.fws.gov/nc-es/es/countyfr.html United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. (1984). Soil Survey of Hertford County, North Carolina. Washington, D.C. Welcome to North Carolina, County Information. Retrieved February 20, 2004 from http://www.welcometonc.com/countrydirectories/Hertford/ Wooten Company. (2006). Preliminary Engineering Report for wastewater study 33 APPENDIX 34 Appendix A. Flood Plain Information To: Rebecca Richardson Meece, This note is being provided to confirm that the area on the east side Ahoskie between Roanoke Chowan Hospital and the Ahoskie Creek has flooded on numerous occasions, with the worst being Hurricane Floyd in 1999. The entire area which Ahoskie is developing recreation fields on along Ahoskie Creek is in the flood zone. This is the FEMA buy out area where 60+ homes were purchased by FEMA and were destroyed and the land has ultimately been turned over to the town of Ahoskie. The Town of Ahoskie is where that the area is in a flood zone and is planning the rec. areas accordingly. Thanks, Paul Boone 35 Appendix B. Newspaper Advertisement Roanoke-Chowan News Herald, Ahoskie 36 Appendix C. Cost Estimates Rebecca Meece, Thanks for your inquiry. We furnished a combination restroom/concession building to a High School in Durham last year for about $51,000. On that project we combined 2ea. 12'x20' buildings, one was the concession area, and the other was the restroom. Your project will require that you prepare a gravel base to set the buildings on. Afterwards you can put a sidewalk all around the buildings to adequately contain the gravel and for your use of walking around the building. You will also need to provide Electric, & Plumbing to the building and make hook-ups. We installed the lighting & electrical boxes, and all of the internal plumbing fixtures and piping. We also delivered and setup the buildings for this $51,000. Below is a link to a short slide show that includes (the white brick building) the buildings at Riverside High. This slideshow also demonstrates that we will need room/access for the large trucks and crane. The other restroom (reddish color) also demonstrates the flexibility of color combinations and a sidewalk around the building poured afterwards. Send me your mailing address and I can get you some brochures also. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to ask. Louis Marusik General Manager SMITH-CAROLINA Corp. http://www.photoshow.net/watch/iy9Nc8Gx 37 Rebecca: Please excuse my delay in sending the information you requested. Unfortunately, the timeframe before anticipated construction and lack of details makes it difficult to give a very good estimate. Regardless, I have looked at numerous recent projects similar to yours and anticipated steel prices to continue to rise over the next two years. I have also assumed your specifications will meet or exceed ASTM and Chain Link Fence Manufacturers’ Standards. With this in mind, I believe the following price ranges could be used for initial budgeting purposes: Youth baseball fields: $18,000.00 to $20,000.00 Adult softball fields: $23,000.00 to $25,000.00 Adult baseball fields: $26,000.00 to $28,000.00 Multipurpose field: $4,000.00 to $5,000.00 If you have any additional questions please let me know. Sincerely; Roy G. Garner 38 To: Town of Ahoskie Rebecca Meece March 26, 2007 Re: Price of Infield Mix with Turface Delivered to 1326 West First Street Ahoskie, NC 27910 25 tons delivered at $60.00 per ton plus tax Thank You, Shelly R.L. Bradsher Contracting, Inc. 39 From: Trenda Herring [mailto:therring@cgcfields.com] Sent: Wed 4/25/2007 2:02 PM To: Meece, Rebecca Richardson Subject: RE: Town of Ahoskie Rebecca, For budgeting purposes I think you would be safe with the following: $ 80,000 Irrigation (with meter and main already installed) $ 95,000 Bermuda Sod $ 200,000 - 250,000 Dirt & Infield Mixes and required laser grading with installation of these materials Trenda Herring Carolina Green Corp. 10108 Indian Trail-Fairview Road Indian Trail, NC 28079 Ph: 704-753-1707 ext.104 Fax: 704-753-2033 therring@cgcfields.com 40 41 42 43 Town of Ahoskie Ballfields and Soccer Field Town of Ahoskie, NC Date: February 7, 2007 To: Rebecca Meece Equipment Description Light-Structure Green™ System delivered to your site in Five Easy Pieces™ • Pre-cast concrete bases • Galvanized steel poles • UL Listed remote electrical component enclosure • Pole length wire harness • Factory-aimed and assembled luminaires Also Includes: • Energy savings of more than 50% over a standard lighting system • • 50% less spill and glare light than Musco’s prior industry leading technology Musco Constant 25™ warranty and maintenance program that eliminates 100% of your maintenance costs for 25 years, including labor and materials • Guaranteed constant light level for 25 years, +/- 10% per IESNA RP-06-01 • 1 group re-lamp at the end of the lamps’ rated life, 5000 hours • Reduced energy consumption • Control Link® Control & Monitoring System for flexible control and solid management of your lighting system Sales tax is not included as part of this budget estimate. Budget Estimate Musco’s Light Structure Green™ as described above and delivered to the job site 200’ Radius Field $65,000 – $70,000 300’ Radius Field $115,000 – $125,000 360’ x 160’ Field $125,000 – $130,000 Pricing furnished is effective for 60 days unless otherwise noted and is considered confidential. Divulging technical or pricing information to competitive vendors will result in removal from the bid list. Payment Terms Option A 44 Payment of 25% of the contract price is required with order. The contract balance is due no later than 20 days after invoice date. Option B - Wholesalers Only 100% of the contract price is due and payable no later than 20 days after invoice date. Late payment will be subject to service charges of 1 ½% per month (18% APR). Musco will attempt to coordinate shipment so that delivery corresponds with the customer’s payment schedule. It will be the responsibility of the wholesaler to ensure that Musco is aware of this delivery timeframe. We will expect payment within the terms described above unless there is a written statement from Musco’s corporate headquarters stating the acceptance of different terms. • Delivery to the job site from the time of order, submittal approval, and confirmation of order details including voltage and phase, pole locations is approximately 30-45 days. Due to the builtin custom light control per luminaire, pole locations need to be confirmed prior to production. Changes to pole locations after the product is sent to production could result in additional charges. Notes Estimate is based on: • Shipment of entire project together to one location • Providing 50 fc infield, and 30 fc outfield for the ballfields • Providing 30 fc for the football field • Structural code and wind speed = 2003 IBC, 90 MPH exposure C. • Confirmation of pole locations prior to production Thank you for considering Musco for your sports-lighting needs. Please contact me with any questions. Jason Briggs Musco Sports Lighting, LLC Phone: 800-825-6030 E-mail: Jason.briggs@musco.com Fax: 641-672-1996 45 WHAT IS TAKES TO BUILD A REGULATION HORSESHOE PIT One of the items is MONEY and it takes quite a bit. It runs approx. $400.00 to $600.00 to buy materials for one pit. This includes Cyclone fencing, lighting, water, utilities. Membership donations and dues have really helped with construction costs. It also helps to go out and sell the project to the community and get some backing and donations. I have given talks to several orginizations, promoting the project and have had good success. If you would like to make a donation to help with our construction cost, it would really be appreciatied. Because we are a non-profit organization,your donation is tax deductable. Make any donation payable to Forebay Park Horseshoe Club, c/o Bill Harris, 4949 Rainbow Tr., Pollock Pines, Ca. 95726. 1)---The placement of the pit is very important. You don't want to be pitching shoes into the sun, so the placement of the pit should be North & South. 2)---You need an area about 48 feet long and 10 feet wide. The area needs to be level. 3)---The horseshoe stakes (or pins as they are sometimes called) are forty feet apart; measured from the center of one stake to the center of the other stake. 4)---Stakes are of 1 inch cold-roll steel and 30 to 36 inches long. MATERIALS NEEDED: 12-----2" x 6" x 8' Redwood. 48-----16d Galv. Nails. (maybe a few more in case you bend some) 8-----2" x 4" x 8' DF. (for the intermediate pads) 8-----2" X 4" X 18" DF. (intermediate pads) 64-----16d duplex nails. (intermediate pads) 1------Cubic yard of 5 to 6 sack concrete. 2------Sheets of 3/4" plywood-3' x 6'. (bottom of pits) 2------1" Cold-Rolled Steel Pins x 30 to 36 " long. TOOLS NEEDED: Pick & Shovel. Garden Rake. Framing Level. String Line. String Line-Level. Framing Hammer. Nail Puller. Hand Saw. Framing Square. Sledge Hammer (4 to 6 lbs.) 100' Measuring Tape. 10' Measuring Tape. Carpenters Pencil. SEE THE PITCHERS BOX BELOW Redwood lumber cut to size and nailed together, ready to set into ground. http://webs.directcon.net/harris/CONSTRUCTION.html 46 Volleyball Court Construction http://www.volleyballmag.com/archive/instruct/1995/court.html Court Cents Here's the complete guide to building your own sand court, including what it's going to cost. By C.C. Sandorfi After fielding calls and letters from readers for three years now, we've decided it's time for an encore presentation of one of our most popular subjects: how to build your own sand volleyball court. But be forewarned: This is not a project to undertake in half measures. If you're planning to put in a court, do it right, and be prepared to invest a fair amount of time and money. Otherwise, you could end up with the world's most expensive sand box. The Basics • • • • • • The playing area consists of the court and a space around it measuring approximately 10 feet in each direction (more if possible). The space above the playing area should be free of obstructions (branches, power lines, etc.). The playing area should be level. It's important to use good quality sand, thick enough to prevent players from contacting any underlying hard surface. Dimensions of a standard court are 18 meters (59-0 feet) by nine meters (29-6) and are measured from the outer edge of the boundary lines. The boundary lines should be made of brightly colored rope or material having similar characteristics but shouldn't unreasonably impede play. Net supports should be made of wood, metal, PVC or other material that will withstand tension and not bend or break. Supports should be about 14 feet long and buried five feet deep (cement is optional). Make sure they're free of hazardous protrusions. If you use guy wires, they should be made of bright colors or marked with flags so they're visible. All anchors for guy wires and court lines should be level with the playing surface and free of sharp edges. For areas comfortably above sea level, the court area should be excavated two to three feet deep, depending on the depth of the sand and gravel base you intend to use. For low-lying areas, the court area should be excavated only about six to eight inches; you should end up building an elevated court rather than one that is flush with the ground. To keep dirt or grass from mixing in with the court sand, you may want to build a barrier around the court, either with wooden beams (such as railroad ties) or some type of low, solid fencing. This can be especially important for a court that is built slightly above ground. You should have a drainage system under the court. A drainage ditch should lead away from the lowest point of the court, and perforated drainage pipe should be laid in a zig-zag pattern over the base of the area with one end capped and the 39 other open to the drainage ditch. Drainage is very important. You don't want to be playing in a swamp. Step by Step 1. Excavate the court area to your desired depth using a Bobcat or frontend loader. Our experts all advise against using a bulldozer or backhoe (the bulldozer won't be able to pick up and replace the dirt, and the backhoe won't dig a level surface). If you're in a low sea-level area (for example, shoreline areas in Florida), the court should be built slightly above ground. Use the dirt you excavate to create a slight slope up to the court. 2. Arrange your court perimeter (if desired) around the edges of the excavated site. This keeps dirt and grass from leaking into the court and vice-versa. If you're using railroad Illustration by Darren Henke ties or similar materials, our experts suggest covering the exposed top edges with some sort of padding to minimize injury potential. One expert says he's had great luck buying used rubber escalator handrail material from escalator companies and seating it atop his 2 x 6-inch wooden boundaries. 3. Lay out your drainage pipe, perforated side down, with the open end at the low point of the court. You may wish to wrap each section of pipe with some type of filter to keep sand from filling up the pipe: burlap is one choice although eventually it will rot. Our experts suggest using flex wrap or "handicap wrap," which can be bought at plumbing supply houses. 4. Prepare your net standards by attaching hooks, hook-and-eye hardware and any winch-type hardware. Sink your poles at least three feet deep since they'll need to be sunk five feet overall when you're finished. For longevity, if you're using wooden poles you should pre-treat them with a weather-resistant stain. If you're not using guy wires as supports, set your poles in the ground at a slight angle outward from the court to allow for any "bend" caused by eventual net tension. 5. Cover the pipe and the remaining court area with a one-foot thickness of small gravel. Various sizes seem to work, but the overall consensus is to use a small, pea-sized gravel known around the country as #56 gravel, #2 or #3 size gravel. Explain to your gravel supplier that it will be used for drainage, and he can recommend the size for your needs. 6. Cover the gravel with a screen-type filter to keep gravel and dirt from working its way up to the sand level. Again, burlap will work, but it will eventually rot, especially if you get a lot of rain. The best material is ground stabilization filter 40 fabric, which is a woven poly-blend that won't deteriorate. You can find a supplier by calling a landscaping or excavating company for a referral. 7. Deposit your sand - one to two feet deep - and rake so it's level. With a good gravel base, one foot of sand is usually enough. 8. Attach your net, put down your boundary lines and you're ready to play. Tips from Our Experts John Daloise, president of Standard Building Systems and local promoter for the Bud Light Pro Beach 4s and WPVA, Dallas: • • • It's best to hire a contractor if you're unfamiliar with the excavating equipment. It'll save you time and headaches in the long run. One foot of sand is usually enough; if you put down more, you won't be able to reach the lower levels with a rototiller or rake. Don't use sugar sand-it sticks too much and is too fine to be a good playing surface. Richard Anderson, vice-chair of Olympic Committee for Clayton County, Jonesboro, Georgia: • • • Try using used escalator handrail material for padding on the court borders. Rake your court frequently with a three-foot garden rake. Use a net with steel cable both on top and bottom for maximum tightness. J.B. Shares, owner, Hot Shots beach volleyball clubs, Rochester, New York: • • • Pay special attention to the plans and follow them line by line. Don't cut corners or it'll cost you in the long run. If you use steel poles for net standards, seat them in steel sleeves so you can easily remove the poles for maintenance or replacement. If your net has steel cables, use pulleys on each side to hold it tight. Robert "La Jolla Bob" Roemer, owner, La Jolla Beach Volleyball Club, Toledo, Ohio: • • • Go with round poles whenever possible to reduce injury risks; try used utility poles (you can get them for free in many communities by contacting the utility companies). Allow plenty of space for a sand perimeter around the court - don't let grass or dirt serve as your perimeter. Watch out for freebies. Sometimes free sand can be more expensive than purchased sand because removing or sifting debris from the sand will be more expensive in the long run. 41 Dale Hoffman, president, California Beach Volleyball Association, Ventura, California: • • • Always put in proper drainage. Use the simplest net attachment system possible. In Brazil, they cut a notch in the top of the pole and drill a hole in the middle, string the net cable and rope over the top of the pole and knot it off at the hole. Choose your site carefully. Putting a court near a busy road or a swimming pool isn't a great idea. How Much? Now for the big question: How much? Your basic costs will fall into three categories: sand and gravel, excavation equipment rental and court equipment. If you're lucky enough to live on a coast, sand will probably be readily available at a reasonable cost. But unless you want to spend a lot of time with a shovel and a pickup truck at the beach, you'll need to purchase sand from a local sand pit or milling company (check your yellow pages). Sand comes in several grades, but our volleyball experts say this isn't the place to cut corners. Washed plaster sand, washed masonry sand, washed river sand or, if possible, washed beach or dune sand are recommended. Sand is sold either by the ton or by the yard, depending on where you live. On average, washed masonry sand will cost between $8.50 and $15 a ton, not including delivery. And delivery is where the hidden costs lie. If you're nearby, it can be $2 or $3 per ton. As you get farther away, the cost escalate. If you're in the Midwest, for instance, the sand might have to be shipped by freighter and then trucked to your location, raising the cost considerably. You can calculate how much sand you'll need using the following formula: (Length x Width x Depth in feet divided by 27) x 1.6 gives you tonnage; (L x W x D) divided by 27 gives you yardage. Using this formula, a court approximately 40 x 70 feet with one foot of sand needs about 166 tons of sand. Gravel can be slightly cheaper, ranging from $5 to $14 per ton, although in some areas it can cost more than the sand. The formula for calculating the tonnage needed is the same as for sand. Delivery charges are similar. When it comes to digging your court, you'll find that all your friends armed with shovels won't compare to a Bobcat or front-end loader. Our panel says a Bobcat is ideal because of its compact size and easy maneuverability. If you're doing the digging yourself, expect to pay somewhere between $100 and $200 a day for Bobcat rental, plus a delivery fee of $40 to $100. You can also contract the work 42 out to an excavation or landscaping company. It costs more, but you're getting a trained professional who can probably do the job much faster and won't take out a corner of your house in the process. Considering the investment, you should purchase a net with top and bottom steel cables ($100 to $300) and good-quality supports. For standards, 4 x 6-inch wooden posts are favored ($20 each). Steel supports are also an option. The final price tag: Expect to spend $6,000-$10,000. Costs by Region Dallas • • • Sand: $10-17/yard delivered Gravel: $22-30/yard delivered Bobcat rental: $130/day plus $50-60 delivery fee Toledo, Ohio • • • Sand: $15/ton delivered Gravel: $6.95/ton plus delivery Bobcat rental: $112/day plus $50/hr. for delivery Atlanta • • • Sand: $16/ton delivered Gravel: $12.50/ton plus delivery Bobcat rental: $135/day, $1.50 per mile for delivery Southern California • • • Sand: $8.50-11/ton plus delivery Gravel: $9/ton plus delivery Bobcat rental: $190/day plus $100 delivery charge Rochester, New York • • • Sand: $8.50-9.50/ton plus $2-$3/ton delivery Gravel: $6-7/ton plus delivery Bobcat: $185/day plus $45 delivery charge 43 44