Connellsville Yough River Park - Master Plan

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MASTER MASTER PLAN PLAN November 2008

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Prepared for:

The Progress Fund Prepared By:

Mackin Mackin Engineering Company RIDC Park West 117 Industry Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15275-1015 info@mackinengineering.com

Yough River Park Master Plan

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The preparation of this Master Plan was financed in part by a generous grant from the Katherine Mabis McKenna Foundation.

Community Input The Progress Fund would like to offer special thanks to those residents, property owners, business owners and individual stakeholders who attended meetings and provided valuable comments and insight throughout the master planning process.

The Trail Town Program Cathy McCollom, Director of the Trail Town Program, an economic development program of the Progress Fund The Allegheny Trail Alliance Linda McKenna Boxx, President Regional Trail Corporation Dexston Reed, Board of Directors The Yough River Trail Council Ted Kovall, President The City of Connellsville Mayor Judy Reed Vernon Ohler, Public Works Redevelopment Authority of Connellsville Michael Edwards, Executive Director Design Team, Mackin Engineering Company Robert W. Genter, RLA, ASLA Bill Moldovan, RLA, ASLA

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction .....................................................................................................................Section 1 Purpose ................................................................................................................................. 1-1 Goals and Objectives............................................................................................................ 1-1 Process................................................................................................................................... 1-2 Site Analysis ..................................................................................................................... 1-2 Community Involvement and Conceptual Design ....................................................... 1-2 Existing Conditions.........................................................................................................Section 2 Youghiogheny River ............................................................................................................ 2-1 GAP Trail .............................................................................................................................. 2-2 Pavilions and ‘Cream of the Trail' Building ....................................................................... 2-2 Stage ...................................................................................................................................... 2-2 Seating (Bleachers and Benches) ......................................................................................... 2-3 Boardwalk............................................................................................................................. 2-3 Playgrounds, Horseshoe Pits and Volleyball Court .......................................................... 2-3 Sidewalks .............................................................................................................................. 2-4 Parking and Vehicular Access............................................................................................. 2-4 River Access.......................................................................................................................... 2-5 Utilities .................................................................................................................................. 2-5 Master Plan.......................................................................................................................Section 3 Circulation ............................................................................................................................ 3-2 Vehicular (Parking, Driveways and Internal Access) ................................................... 3-2 Pedestrian......................................................................................................................... 3-4 Historical Society Property.................................................................................................. 3-4 GAP Trail .............................................................................................................................. 3-5 Entry Into the Park .......................................................................................................... 3-5 Connections to the Connellsville Business District and Coal and Coke Trail............. 3-6 Playgrounds.......................................................................................................................... 3-7 Structures .............................................................................................................................. 3-8 Pavilions........................................................................................................................... 3-8 New Central Pavilion.................................................................................................... 3-10 Covered River Overlook ............................................................................................... 3-11 ‘Cream of the Trail’ and Restroom Building Expansion............................................. 3-11 Lighting, Safety and Security System ............................................................................... 3-13 Boat Launch Lease Opportunity ....................................................................................... 3-13 Fish and Boat Commission Launch Area ......................................................................... 3-14 Open Space ......................................................................................................................... 3-15 Riverbank Stabilization...................................................................................................... 3-15 Utility Relocations and Enhancements............................................................................. 3-16

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Sanitary Authority Pump Building.............................................................................. 3-16 Combined Sewer Outfalls ............................................................................................. 3-17 Cost Estimate & Anticipated Project Schedule............................................................Section 4 Priority Projects and Phasing .............................................................................................. 4-1 Cost Estimate ........................................................................................................................ 4-2 Appendices.......................................................................................................................Section 5 A: Master Plan Illustrative Graphic B: Meeting Minutes C: Site Photos D: Collected Base Mapping E: Concept Plans and Sections

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INTRODUCTION The Master Plan is a comprehensive site planning tool, for a specific parcel of land.

This tool is to be used as a guide for short and long-term construction development based on the public goals and objectives for parks and recreation, in relation to physical features on the site, and in conjunction with current and future facilities within the City of Connellsville.

A successful Master Plan is designed to meet the public’s goals and objectives, which are identified through a public input process. This process identifies current demand, public support and plans for future growth.

City of Connellsville, 2008

The actual Implementation of the plan may be phased over a number of years to correlate with current public demand, available funding and/or volunteer labor support levels.

Purpose The Master Plan for the Yough River Park has been created to provide the site’s stakeholders, including the City of Connellsville and Great Allegheny Passage Trail organizations, with a thorough site planning tool to help guide future development within the Park. This Master Plan will enhance existing facilities and define the optimal use for the property, conserve and preserve sensitive environmental features and meet the current and future recreational needs of the community.

Goals and Objectives The success of any Park Master Plan lies in both the designer’s and community’s ability to successfully establish a set of goals and objectives to meet the current and future needs of park users. This can only be accomplished through extensive public participation and community outreach. The following list of goals and objectives have been formulated during public meetings and through extensive discussion with project stakeholders.

Eliminate GAP Trail users’ confusion once they enter the Park by creating a definitive trail alignment; and improve safety along the new alignment while maintaining a connection to the Park and its amenities for the trail user  Enhance security and safety in the Park  Enhance existing functions and facilities offered in the Park 

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Design new facilities to accommodate recreation needs, considering security & maintenance when determining new location, materials and utilities  Provide the City of Connellsville with increased opportunities to generate revenues 

Process The Yough River Park Master Plan has been developed through a series of systematic steps to ensure that the final document meets the short term needs of the Park, and provides the community with a realistic long term vision for the Park.

Site Analysis The first step in the creation of the Master Plan involved mapping the existing site conditions, and conducting a thorough site analysis of features and facilities. The existing mapping was provided by the City of Connellsville, and the data was analyzed to determine the site’s natural features, on site and surrounding land uses, and how the site currently functions. This analysis was used to identify opportunities and constraints that exist on the site.

The collected base mapping is included in Appendix D.

Community Involvement and Conceptual Designs The second step in the Master Planning process consisted of recording and analyzing community feedback as it pertains to the development of the opportunities and constraints; and the creation of several conceptual plans.

The conceptual plans were then presented, reviewed and analyzed during a public meeting; the feedback received during this process was used to refine details of the conceptual plan and develop the Master Plan for Yough River Park.

The conceptual plan graphics are included in Appendix E.

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EXISTING CONDITIONS The 6.5 acre park is situated along the Youghiogheny River, east and down river of Connellsville’s downtown. The Historical Society owns a one acre parcel west and adjacent to the park property.

The PA Fish and Boat Commission operates a boat launch east and adjacent to the park, located under the Memorial Boulevard Bridge (State Route 119). The Memorial Boulevard Bridge bisects the park into a 2/3rd. division. Access to the park is via North Third Street on the east side of the bridge, and via N 7th Street and N 6th Street on the west side of the bridge.

The water flow within the Youghiogheny River is controlled by the US Army Corps dam located in Confluence, PA. A second dam (without a lock facility) is upstream in South Connellsville. Flood waters still inundate the lower elevations of the park during high water seasons (spring thaw and heavy summers rains); and ice is a factor during the winter months. The waterway is used heavily by private companies and individuals for canoeing rafting tours and by fishermen of all ages.

The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail enters the park from the south (from Washington DC) at North Third Street and enters the park from the north (from Pittsburgh) near the Historical Society property to North 7th. Street.

The park includes a 30 space parking lot and a 63 space parking lot (near the boat launch), picnic pavilions, gazebo, playground equipment, a stage and elevated boardwalk, volleyball, horseshoe pits, a sanitary pump station, a brick ‘Cream of the Trail’ building with kitchen and bathrooms, and miscellaneous utilities, including lights. These elements are further discussed below.

Youghiogheny River The most significant amenity in the park is the Youghiogheny River. The Yough River is an outstanding asset in Connellsville, and provides the community with a multitude of recreational and lei-

Images of the Youghiogheny River from the Banks of Yough River Park

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sure activities. This Master Plan reflects the river as the park’s identifiable element, and proposes improvements and strategies to enhance the park’s connection, both visually and physically, to the riverfront.

GAP Trail Yough River Park’s unique location along the Great Allegheny Passage Trail presents an opportunity for the park to become a significant midpoint between Washington DC and Pittsburgh or a destination point for local trail users to begin and end their day.

N. Approach Along the GAP Trail

GAP users can enter the park and experience its intimate relationship with the river; experience the rich culture and historical significance of the City of Connellsville; spend money on park and City vendors and services; stay overnight in the City; connect to other forms of transportation, such as bus and/or railroad, or other trails (Coal and Coke Trail & Sheepskin Trail); or make reservations for the trip ahead.

The existing trail through Yough River Park lacks a defined alignment, and at times is unidentifiable to first time visitors.

Trail traffic shares the same alignment with pedestrian circulation within the park, creating a conflict between park pedestrians (adults and children) and faster speeds of GAP Trail bicyclists.

‘Cream of the Trail’ Building

Pavilions and ‘Cream of the Trail’ Restroom Building Two large pavilions, one gazebo and a brick kitchen/restroom building exist at Yough River Park. The pavilions and gazebo are wooden structures with shingle roofs; the kitchen/restroom building is brick with a shingle roof and houses the ‘Cream of the Trail’ concession stand operated by the City of Connellsville.

Pavilion at Yough River Park

Stage A wooden stage is located adjacent to the ‘Cream of the Trail’ building. The stage is approximately 20’ x 10’ and covered; the stage is used for concerts and special events. Electric service is available at the stage. The stage should remain on-site until a replacement element of the Master Plan has been constructed (discussed in Section 3).

Stage

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Seating (Bleachers and Benches) Several sets of moveable bleachers are located within the park; the aluminum bleachers can be moved in front of the stage during concerts, or along the river’s edge in the summer. A wooden picnic table is located along the sidewalk at the river front. The picnic table is on a concrete pad.

There is also a marble dedication bench adjacent to the existing pavilion and playground area near Torrance and N 6th Street, a concrete bench along the GAP Trail at the corner of Torrance and N 7th Street and a bench with metal frame and wooden slats in the same area.

Bench Styles Within the Park

Boardwalk A raised wooden boardwalk is located along the top the Youghiogheny Riverbank. The boardwalk is approximately 150 linear feet, lighted, and contains a river overlook area with benches. The foundations of the boardwalk have been exposed by erosion, and the wooden boardwalk has deteriorated over time.

Raised Wood Boardwalk

The boardwalk is dedicated to Arthur Wilkey, and a small concrete pedestal and bronze plaque is located at the boardwalk. The boardwalk visually and physically separates park users from the river.

Playgrounds, Horseshoe Pits and Volleyball Court Two playground areas are located along Torrance Avenue between N 7th and N 6th Streets. One playground contains a climbing set with slide contained within a timber border; the other contains a swing set, merry-go-round and a large metal slide. This playground is set on a black safety surface contained by a plastic edge restraint.

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Four horseshoe pits and a sand volleyball court are situated down in the lawn bowl between the playgrounds and the riverbank. The horseshoe pits are lighted, however they are frequently flooded making them a continuous maintenance liability. The volleyball court consists of two poles in a lawn area; the net can be attached when the court is in use.

Sidewalks The sidewalks in the park are asphalt and approximately 6’ wide.

There are areas where the pedestrian sidewalk system shares the same alignment with the crushed limestone surface of the GAP Trail; this occurs along Torrance Ave between N 7th and N 6th Streets. The sidewalk system successfully connects the different elements within the park.

Asphalt Sidewalk

Parking and Vehicular Access There are approximately 30 parking spaces along Torrance Ave between N 7th and N 6th Streets; the stalls are along the north side of Torrance and 90 degrees to the travel lane. A 63 space parking lot is located east of the Memorial Boulevard Bridge (SR 119), at the PA Fish and Boat Commission boat launch. The circulation in the 63 space parking lot is one-way, and the stalls are 45 degrees to the travel lanes. Both parking areas are asphalt surface.

Parking Area at Torrance Avenue

Vehicle access points into the park are located at the intersections of Torrance Ave and N 7th and N 6th Streets. The access at N 7th Street is to service the river access just past the existing gazebo; the access at N 6th Street services the ‘Cream of the Trail’ Building, however the access drive does not reach the structure. Only the access point at N 6th Street is gated.

There is an overflow parking lot located south of the Fish and Boat Commission boat launch lot, between N 3rd and N 2nd Streets. This gravel lot is utilized during the summer months, but is not signed well making it difficult for first time visitors to find.

Parking Lot at the Boat Launch

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River Access According to the PA Fish and Boat Commission, the concrete launch area at Yough River Park is designed for 24/7 hours of operation; unlimited horsepower; shore fishing; and primary boating– unlimited size.

A second walk-in river access is located at the end of N 7th Street, adjacent to a storm pipe outfall and a utility transmission line crossing over the river.

Utilities The existing utilities at the park include electric, telephone, cable, gas, sanitary, storm sewer and water service. The majority of the electric infrastructure is located above grade, however some of the interior service lines (i.e., from light pole to light pole) are below grade. There an electrical transmission line extending north along N 7th Street, through the park, and crossing the river to the north.

A brick sanitary pump building is located within the park near the intersection of Torrance and N 6th Street. The pump building is enclosed in a chain link fence, and is accessible via a concrete sidewalk and gate. There is a concrete vault at the fence line; the pump building is situated on an earthen mound.

Several combined storm/sewer outfalls and headwalls are located along the banks of the Youghiogheny River. The outfall locations are a significant factor in the development of the park; the outfall locations should be identified for improvement during the reengineering of the park.

A compilation of existing utilities has been plotted to one plan sheet, and is located in Appendix D. Outfall at end of N 7th Street

Sanitary Authority Pump Building

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Overhead Electric within the Park

Concrete Headwall at Outfall

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MASTER PLAN Many community parks have grown without the benefits of a comprehensive planning effort or detailed Master Plan. The result is a park without a defined circulation layout and scattered site elements. One of the greatest threats to the physical qualities of a park is the unplanned, piece meal expansion of site development including: the location of pavilions, structures, roads, parking, and utilities throughout the park.

Yough River Park Master Plan

The key to redefining the physical aspects of a park is to identify the elements that make the particular park special or identifiable, and design to enhance those elements.

Goals of the Park Master Plan should;   

Reflect the values of the community Preserve existing site elements that define the park Integrate new facilities and resources within the park that improve existing patterns of circulation, parking and open space, while preserving and enhancing the environmental quality of the park and the experience for the park user.

The re-design of the Yough River Park is an opportunity to tell the story of Connellsville’s rich culture and historic significance to the region, as well as provide the community and GAP Trail users with a significant riverfront asset to enjoy. The park design was approached as three distinct areas and included: an environmental and historical ‘Frontier’ theme at the Historic Society property; a river travel and coal & coke theme in the central active recreational areas; and an ’Industrial’ theme in the eastern half of the park (PA Fish and Boat Commission Launch). These themes are realized through the inclusion of site specific design elements described in this section.

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Circulation Circulation within the park, as well as around its perimeter, is a critical factor in the overall experience the park offers its users. Movement should be free-flowing, successfully connecting separate elements within the park. The presence of pedestrian, vehicular and bicycle traffic within Yough River Park can result in conflicts of circulation types and speeds; these conflicts have been mitigated with the implementation of several key design features.

Vehicular (Parking, Driveways and Internal Access) The most significant modification recommended to the vehicular traffic pattern is the re-alignment of Torrance Avenue between North 7th Street and North 6th Street (Fig. 3.1). Shifting the centerline of the road towards the river (north) and constructing 90 degree parking stalls on each side of the road will increase parking by approximately 25 spaces (almost +50%). Two additional parking concepts were evaluated, and are included in Appendix E. Access to the alley between N 7th and N 6th Streets will be maintained. A raised traffic table is proposed at the alley to calm traffic speeds and elevate pedestrians in the crossing for improved visibility; the raised table should be constructed with a different texture and color pavement of that of the parking lot. Additionally, the new parking stalls are proposed to be pervious pavers to minimize storm water runoff.

Figure 3.1

The parking lot at the PA Fish and Boat launch is proposed to be reconfigured as well. Improvements include paving of the center median island and re-striping the lot for 90 degree parking stalls and two-way drive aisles; pervious pavers are recommended at new stalls adjacent to the beer distributor; these modifications will result in a more efficient traffic pattern and increase available parking spaces.

Figure 3.2 show two pervious pavement types that could reduce storm water runoff from the site.

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Images courtesy of UNILOCK, Inc.

Figure 3.2

Additionally, emergency and maintenance access into the park area is recognized as a very important design element. For these reasons, controlled access is recommended in strategic locations.

Vehicle access is controlled by a series of cut sandstone boulders located between the park and the parking. Access would be provided through decorative gates; the gates should be constructed of durable materials that fit into the overall theme of the park. The gates can be secured with lock and key, coded punch pad, or automated by the installation of mechanical systems with remote capabilities. Fig. 3.1 shows the locations of access control gates; the gates are located close to the proposed GAP Trail alignment to allow emergency and maintenance vehicles to enter the park and access the trail. Figure 3.3 details the access control configuration at the intersection of N 7th Street and Torrance Avenue.

Figure 3.3

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Pedestrian Pedestrian pathways are recommended to be accessible by all age groups and abilities (ADA compatible) and are designed as circulation loops through the park, connecting together park facilities.

The recommended sidewalk system is proposed to be 8’ wide with asphalt surface.

The walkway system connects each parking lot to the park and extends the street grid toward the river. Extending the street grid corridor to the Youghiogheny River opens up the views toward the river and provides improved access to the new walkin river launch and fishing/river overlook platform. Furthermore, the walkways can be used for limited vehicle parking for unloading and event staging at the pavilions.

The sidewalk system also connects the east side of the park (PA Fish and Boat launch and parking lot) to the west side (Historical Society parcel) of the park. The pedestrian and vehicular circulation routes can be seen on the Master Plan Illustrative Graphic, Appendix A.

Historical Society Property Proposed improvements to the Historic Society’s property are limited to a new pavilion, P3 w h i c h will be discussed later in this section.

Other minor improvements to the property include removing the fence at the top of Youghiogheny riverbank to strengthen the connection to the river, regrading a ramp toFigure 3.4 ward the river to access annual river crossing events, and developing an open space on the property for educational, historical, cultural and environmental programs. Some programs identified included candle making, outdoor cooking, baking and butter churning, a fire-circle, temporary tee-pee structures for overnight special events, and frontier-days events. Fig. 3.4 depicts the improvements to the Historic Society’s property.

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GAP Trail Yough River Park’s location along the pathway of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) provides the City with an opportunity to show off its assets, to provide services, and to generate revenue from GAP users. The new trail alignment has been designed to be safe, easily identifiable, and easy to follow. The trail is recommended to be: located south of the new Torrance Avenue/parking lot design; 12’ wide colored asphalt surface; and to include MUTCD regulated signage and pavement markings at all road crossings.

Entry into the Park The existing alignment of the GAP Trail, as it enters the site from the North, is recommended to remain. Conceptual plans explored realigning the trail along the riverfront, but this concept would create increased trail maintenance due to river flooding and would cut off river access for the Historical Society.

The GAP Trail reaches North 7th Street and continues as a separated trail which follows the southern border of the new parking at Torrance Avenue; the trail is recommended to be constructed within the existing Torrance Avenue right-of-way. See Fig 3.5 for the GAP Trail alignment.

Figure 3.5

The trail crosses N 6th Street and parallels the pedestrian sidewalk at the new ‘Cream of the Trail’ Plaza and Gateway. The GAP Trail is directed behind the ‘Cream of the Trail’ building; a 4’ maximum height retaining wall will be required to accommodate the trail width which abuts the State Route 119 embankment. Once past the building, the GAP Trail follows the toe of the Memorial Boulevard Bridge embankment slope until it reaches N 4th Street on the eastern side of the park.

Along the way, the trail passes by both the new café & Kiosk Plaza and ‘Cream of the Trail’, shower and kitchen improvements and bike wash facility.

On the eastern side of the park, the new trail alignment is recommended to remain as a separated trail constructed along the southern side of Torrance Avenue’s right-of-way. The GAP then enters the existing separated system along N 3rd Street on its way south to Washington DC.

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See Fig 3.6 for the GAP Trail alignment in this location.

This proposed GAP Trail realignment will result in a safer and easy to follow route by separating park pedestrian and GAP bicycle traffic, bringing GAP users directly to park amenities (‘Cream of the Trail’ café, information, restrooms, showers, security, reservation center, etc), maintaining a separated trail system versus share the road at Torrance Ave., and providing for safe trail-road crossings.

Connections to the Connellsville Business District and Coal & Coke Trail The alignment of the GAP Trail through Yough River Park provides strategic opportunities for connections to the Coal and Coke Trail (extending north into Westmoreland County) and to downtown ConnellsFigure 3.6 ville’s services and businesses. The intersections of the GAP Trail at N 7th and N 3rd Streets is recommended for placement of directional signage to clearly identify these connections.

Directional and way-finding signage is also proposed outside the park’s boundary, within the community, to assist visitors with finding the park. These signs should be placed along Route 119 at or near the intersections of N 7th Street and W. Crawford Avenue. Along W. Crawford Avenue the signs can be placed at or near the intersections of N 7th, N 6th, N 4th, and N 3rd Streets (signage at each intersection is not necessary; N 7th and Nth 3rd Streets are the direct access ways to each end of the park).

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Playgrounds A new playground is being proposed for Yough River Park; the existing playground equipment can either be recycled or relocated elsewhere in the community. The new playground should be constructed of durable materials and contain a design motif that reflects Connellsville’s rich history.

There are many playground manufacturers that will work with park designers to personalize standard equipment in order to create a memorable play experience. Possible design motifs for this playground include a stockade fort theme, a boat and barge theme or beehive coke ovens to portray the areas influence on early river travel, and/or the iron and steel industry. Figure 3.7 depicts how a fortress themed tower playground would incorporate slides that travel through a beehive coke oven wall. Native rock boulders serve as access control, provide places for seating, serve as climbing elements and add to the naturalistic design theme. A stockade fence and gate, separating parking from playground, add another dimension for a ‘functional’ historical reference.

Photos Courtesy of Fort Necessity NB, Friendship Hill NHS

Figure 3.7

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The proposed location of the playground PG can be seen in Fig. 3.8. The playground (measuring approximately 5,000 SF) is located adjacent to the lawn bowl.

The playground should be placed at the top of the lawn bowl, at the same elevation as the proposed parking lot, to minimize potential damage from flood waters. The lawn bowl slopes can be used to create atgrade slides creating a safe and unique play experience.

A separate tot-lot TL (measuring approximately 1,500 SF) is proposed at the northeast corner of N 6th Street and Torrance Avenue. The tot-lot is centrally located in close proximity to parking (away from the river), pavilions and the ‘Cream of the Trail’ building for food and restrooms. The tot-lot should be designed in conjunction with the playground, and should be enclosed with a continuous fence and a single gate controlling access. Fig. 3.8 shows the location of the new tot-lot.

Figure 3.8

Structures The existing structures in Yough River Park include two pavilions, a gazebo, the ‘Cream of the Trail’ building, a boardwalk and a stage. The Connellsville Area Historic Society has two cabins and a pavilion on their property. All of the existing park structures are proposed to be reconstructed and/or renovated. The raised wooden boardwalk was identified during the planning process as a maintenance liability and a physical & visual obstruction to the water’s edge; for this reason the boardwalk is being eliminated from the park (memorial to be incorporated elsewhere).

Pavilions The two pavilions in Yough River Park and P1 P2 the pavilion on the Historic Society property P3 are to be replaced with new structures and situated in new locations. Figures 3.8 and 3.9 depict the proposed locations for the pavilions. The two 60’ x 30’ park pavilions are situated in close proximity to the proposed parking at Torrance Avenue. The pavilions are along pedestrian sidewalks for ease of access; and both can be accessed by automobile if necessary during loading and staging for festivals or special events. Vehicle access would require City approval to enter the control gates. The pavilions have been situated to frame the view shed corridor of visitors entering the park and traveling along N 7th and N 6th Streets toward the river.

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Figure 3.9

Both pavilions are proposed 60’ x 30’, which is the same size as the existing pavilions, and are recommended to be served with electric lights, ground fault outlets, an open floor plan and a low profile roof to increase visibility into and out from the structure. Construction materials should include rough timbers and steel with stone accents. The pavilion at N 6th Street P1 Figure 3.10 is positioned adjacent to the existing Sanitary Authority’s pump building; this will require a retaining wall to be built as part of the pavilion structure. A fireplace is recommended to be designed in conjunction with the retaining wall to extend the season for users into the fall and winter. Figure 3.11 shows examples of materials to be used in the pavilion, and Figure 3.12 shows the pavilion adjacent to the pump building.

The new pavilion on the Historic Society’s property, P3 also 60’ x 30’, is proposed to be located in the eastern portion of their site. The pavilion should be constructed to match the other pavilions to maintain a consistent architectural theme on the property. The pavilion is to be equipped with electric lights, ground fault outlets, water service, an open floor plan and two secured storage units for crafts, education, and event use. The new structure location will allow for increased visibility and ease of access from the new parking; and make policing the structure more effective. The location also positively impacts the trail user’s experience as they near the Historic Society parcel from Pennsylvania

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the north; the first view a trail user will see will be of a large open lawn space with the Yough River Park as a backdrop.

Figure 3.11

Figure 3.12

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New Central Pavilion A new central pavilion CP (approximately 20’ square) is proposed central to the park, adjacent to the new Torrance Avenue parking lot. The pavilion should match the architectural style of the other park pavilions, and include electric lights and outlets. The central pavilion can be a community gazebo, be rented for picnics, or serve as a stage overlooking the lawn bowl and river.

Fig. 3.13 shows the location of the central pavilion.

Fig. 3.13 also shows a new stage NS and/or amphitheater at the river’s edge, adjacent to the lawn bowl; LB this element was identified by stakeholders as a redundant element within the community, however it has been included in the Master Plan and cost estimate to support future consideration.

Covered River Overlook A raised platform with a covered river overlook RO i s proposed at the terminus of the pedestrian sidewalk along N 6th Street’s axis; see Fig. 3.14. This is a new element introduced to the park, which replaces the existing boardwalk. This structure is proposed to be a concrete and steel platform situated above flood elevation and covered with a timber and/or steel roof overlooking the river.

Figure 3.13

The advantage this new platform has compared to the existing boardwalk is it’s ADA compliance and accessibility, it is closer to the river, and it does not completely obstruct the view to the river. This element will function as a scenic overlook, and support fishing in the Figure 3.14 newly created riparian habitats along the river’s edge.

The raised platform is proposed as a concrete deck on pilings set into the riverbank. The piling and platform corners should be designed to act as ice-breakers to minimize any damage to the structure when the Youghiogheny River freezes.

‘Cream of the Trail’ and Restroom Building Expansion The existing ‘Cream of the Trail’ building CT (Youghiogheny Fisherman’s Club) is the central gathering space within the proposed Master Plan. Improvements to the building, as well as the out-

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door Café & Kiosk Plaza, are being proposed to better serve the GAP Trail users and generate increased revenue for the City of Connellsville.

The improvements to the existing building include additions to the bathrooms with secured shower units (one male and one female, approximately 200 additional square feet will be added to the west end of the building), and renovations for a security center and a park– GAP Trail information & reservation center. The renovation should also consider any necessary improvements needed in the kitchen to maximize services offered to park and GAP Trail users. Utility upgrades may include a security system, electric, water, and sanitary services. Also, the existing Wi-Fi internet service should be enhanced as part of the building renovations.

Improvements proposed to the plaza and landscape surrounding the ‘Cream of the Trail’ building include the construction of a Café & Kiosk Plaza KP (The kiosk was installed for Celebration Day, September 2008); a bike wash area with hose bib and concrete pad located near the restroom en-

Figure 3.15

trance (bike wash and all roof run-off from pavilions and ‘Cream of the Trail’ building should be directed to bio-retention gardens); a geranium garden and flowering tree border at the Café. Additional site elements should include park benches, picnic tables with umbrellas, a drinking fountain,

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bicycle racks, trash receptacles, park lights and a community garden space located at the east and west approach to the facility.

Fig. 3.15 shows the ‘Cream of the Trail’ building and its surrounding amenities.

Lighting, Safety and Security System The success and longevity of all the proposed improvements will be directly influenced by the City of Connellsville’s ability to police Yough River Park. New park elements should be designed to allow unimpeded views into and through the park.

Potential hiding spaces should be eliminated by installing low growing vegetation (less than 24” height). The park’s pathways, both pedestrian and bicycle, should be well lighted to minimize ‘dark’ spots.

The design of the park promotes large open lawn spaces, bordered by shade trees; trees to be selected and pruned to provide clear views through the park.

Security cameras should be strategically located at the ‘Cream of the Trail’ building and pavilions to allow for remote policing; the security cameras can contain live streaming video for real-time surveillance.

The park security office would be housed in the ‘Cream of the Trail’ building.

Boat Launch Lease Opportunity A new structure LO is proposed along the river’s edge, adjacent to the PA Fish and Boat Commission’s boat launch ramp.

Figure 3.16 This structure will be located along the pedestrian sidewalk system, may be partially elevated to protect from flooding, and will include hard armor and planted riverbank stabilization measures. Fig. 3.16 shows the location of this structure.

The intent of this structure is two-fold: first, to introduce a revenue generating opportunity to service the boat launch users who are not visiting Yough River Park; and second, to encourage boat launch

Pennsylvania

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Yough River Park

users to enter the park, utilize its facilities and spend additional dollars at the ‘Cream of the Trail’. The building will act as an attraction with views to the ‘Cream of the Trail’ building, Café & Kiosk Plaza, pavilions, playgrounds and open spaces. This new structure should include temporary electric and water service for seasonal vendor use.

A decorative hardscape plaza HS is proposed under the Memorial Boulevard Bridge (SR 119). Currently, most of this space is earth surface and devoid of vegetative growth. The plaza can be seen in Figure 3.16. A series of raised concrete cubes (shown as dark grey squares) are planned to provide seating and a vertical element to break up the space. The walls of the seat cubes can be veneered with a thick glass to draw on the historic context of Connellsville's past industry. Colored pavement bands constructed of glassFigure 3.17 impregnated concrete and flush corten steel beams accent the plaza and lead the users eye into the park. All materials should be low-maintenance and durable. This could also be an opportunity space for artwork to celebrate Connellsville's glass and steel heritage.

Fish and Boat Commission Launch Area In addition to the improvements to the PA Fish and Boat Commission Boat Launch, BL the master plan recommends widening the boat launch ramp to 30’ to allow multiple trailers and simultaneous access to the river.

The above proposed boat launch lease building and decorative plaza under the bridge should be priorities to attract boat launch users into the park. The Master Plan suggests eliminating the fence between the parking lot and the areas beneath the Memorial Bridge; a row of native stone boulders are being proposed to control vehicles from entering the park; this also provides park and GAP Trail users with seating opportunities while maintaining the aesthetic character of the area.

The result of this design is an unimpeded flow of pedestrian circulation between the launch area the parking lot and the park; refer to Fig. 3.17.

3-14

Connellsville

Master Plan

Open Space The park’s need for facilities to provide recreation and leisure activities, such as the pavilions and playgrounds, must be balanced with the introduction of large open spaces OS for unplanned and spontaneous activities. The Master Plan responds to this need by consolidating the facilities in close proximity to the new parking lot at Torrance Avenue; and moving pavilion locations, resulting in an increased area of open space between the ‘Cream of the Trail’ building, the Café & Kiosk Plaza and the river’s edge.

The existing canopy trees in this area should be protected during construction, and grading should be kept outside the tree canopies for the trees to survive long-term. The open space should be graded to a gentle slope to the river to accommodate field games and gatherings during festivals.

Riverbank Stabilization The Youghiogheny River’s positive impact on the park’s character is often times offset by the destructive impacts of erosion, sedimentation and flooding. The implementation of river bank stabilization measures is a critical component to the sustainability of future park improvements. River bank stabilization will not only mitigate the damage to the park during flood events, but will also provide an important habitat for fish and wildlife along the river.

The installation of river bank stabilization takes time and great effort, and can be very expensive. It is recommended that the City of Connellsville and the final engineers/designers take time to understand the characteristics of the river’s edge and make a great effort to stabilize the riverbank in a natural/ environmental context.

Some examples of river bank stabilization that may be employed at the park include: Bioengineered woven fabric with interspersed groupings of riparian (wet-tolerant) plant species (Figure 3.18)  Rock armoring – this option should not be considered on its own, and should include plantings and rock boulders to maintain a natural aesthetic.  Vegetated Benches (level terraced pads separated by steeper slopes)  Bioengineered Geo-cells or Gabion Baskets filled with stone. 

There are areas within the park that have existing vegetation along the river’s edge. In most cases, this existing vegetation should be protected and increased with native species.

A publication, Restoring Riverfronts, a Guide to Selected Federal Funding Sources, Copyright American Rivers, January 2002, is an excellent resource for implementation.

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Yough River Park

Figure 3.18

Utility Relocations and Enhancements The routing of the existing utilities on the site will be impacted by construction, specifically by the removal and relocation of existing pavilions as well as the re-alignment of Torrance Avenue. Existing conditions mapping was collected as part of this project, and is included in Appendix D. When feasible, the installation of new utilities routes should be below grade to maintain views and eliminate visual clutter in the park. Although an expensive endeavor, consideration should be given to relocating underground the utilities that aren’t affected by construction.

Sanitary Authority Pump Building The chain link fence surrounding the Sanitary Authorities Pump Building PB will be relocated as part of the design; the new fence footprint will be one quarter that of the existing footprint (5,800 SF current to 1,500 SF proposed). Fig. 3.19 shows the relocated fence. The result of this measure is an increased area for new park elements, including one pavilion and the tot-lot. The pump building is situated on an earth mound, which will remain.

The change in grade between the pavilion and pump building will be maintained by installing an L– shaped retaining wall along two sides of the pavilion; a fireplace is proposed as part of the wall.

3-16

Connellsville

Master Plan

The border between the tot-lot and pump building will be screened with low growing vegetation. Refer to Figure 3.12 for a graphic representation of the pavilion and retaining wall.

Combined Sewer Outfalls Great efforts should be made to separate the storm and sanitary sewer systems, thus eliminating the combined storm/sewer outfalls located along the riverbank. Recognizing that this can be a very expensive cost, the recommendations of this Master Plan are: Remove the corrugated metal outfall pipe from the riverfront at the axis of N 7th Street, and replace with a discrete concrete outlet structure, including backflow cap. The concrete structure can be designed into the new river access (kayak/canoe) launch pad and be screened with vegetation.  Remove deposited sediment from the inverts of each pipe outfall, and stabilize the surrounding earth with hard armor as previously described. 

Pennsylvania

Figure 3.19

3-17

Yough River Park

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3-18

Connellsville

Master Plan

COST ESTIMATE & ANTICIPATED PROJECT SCHEDULE The estimates for construction are an opinion of probable costs, using prices from the year this report was written. These subtotals should be used as budget numbers for development. Final costs will be a result of detailed engineering and design and the specific materials identified for construction.

The unit costs used are based on public bid trade construction estimates gathered from local site projects. The total cost of a project is a function of unit costs, project location, supply and demand of the current labor market and construction mobilization costs. Typically, the greater the material quantity to be installed, the lower the unit number and hence, reduction in overall project cost.

Cost estimates will be affected by many elements including but not limited to the following:         

Number of bidding contractors Supply and demand of the local market Bidding Time (when contractors are busy, prices are typically higher) Scope of the Project Location of the Project Ease of access to the Project Total quantities being installed Environmental concerns Inflation

It is important to note that perpetual maintenance of all existing and proposed park amenities must be an integral part of the final budgets to ensure that adequate funding and manpower are available.

Without this foresight, the master planning and implementation effort will fall short of its potential.

Priority Projects and Phasing The following is a list of Priority Projects divided into Phases for implementation of the proposed Master Plan. Three (3) phases have been identified; each phase contains a list of Priority Projects.

Phase One—Base Mapping, Environmental Issues, Trail and Revenue Generators Phase One priority projects include:  Boundary survey  Riverbank stabilization  Re-alignment of GAP Trail into the park from the north  Construct GAP Trail alignment along south edge of Torrance Avenue  Relocate the fence at the Sanitary Authority’s pump building; coordinate relocation with proposed pavilion construction (Phase Two)  Construct the Café’-Kiosk Plaza and Trail in front of the ‘Cream of the Trail’ Building

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Yough River Park

Re-align the GAP Trail behind the ‘Cream of the Trail’ Building and connect to intersection of Torrance Avenue and N 4th Street; including retaining wall  Remove the raised boardwalk 

Phase Two—Structures, Parking and Walks Phase Two priority projects include:  Perform grading at existing lawn bowl and at existing beach; stabilize as necessary  Coordinate the re-alignment of Torrance Avenue and construct the new parking lot between N 7th and N 6th Streets  Reconfigure the parking lot at the PA Fish and Boat Commission Launch and make improvements to the boat launch ramp  Construct addition to the ‘Cream of the Trail’ Building  Construct the Raised Platform River Overlook at the axis of N 6th Street  Construct the River Access at the axis of N 7th Street, including the encasement of the combined sewer overflow pipe  Construct new park pavilions, including the Historic Society’s pavilion  Remove existing playground equipment and construct new playground and tot-lot  Remove existing pedestrian walkways and construct new walkways

Phase Three—Aesthetic and Functional Improvements Phase Three priority projects include:  Construct the Hardscape Plaza below the Memorial Boulevard Bridge  Construct the permanent structure/lease opportunity at the boat launch  Install new stage, horseshoe pits and volleyball court  Ensure that the Historic Society’s programmed space is functioning as designed; assist as needed to implement design

Costs The estimates have been developed using public bid unit costs; some of these projects can be completed by Public Works, volunteer groups, and through in-kind donations to reduce the total cost.

The tables on the following pages are detailed cost estimates for construction of the proposed Master Planned elements; the cost estimates reflect the phased sequence of implementation. The summary table below provides a total cost for each phase (+/- 10%) for budget purposes.

PHASE 1 2 3

DESCRITION Phase One- Base Mapping, Environmental Issues, Trail and Revenue Generators Phase Two- Structures, Parking and Walks Phase Three- Aesthetics and Functional Improvements

GRAND TOTAL

4-2

COST between

$340,000

$420,000

& between

$920,000

&

$1,120,000

between

$170,000

$200,000

& Between

$1,400,000

&

$1,700,000

Connellsville

Master Plan Phase One- Base Mapping, Environmental Issues, Trail and Revenue Generators Boundary Survey (6.5 acres)

Unit

Quantity

Unit Price

Subtotal

L.S.

1

$6,000

$6,000

Riverbank Stabilization SY LF EA.

Boulders (random sizes - min. 4' w x 5' l x 3' ht; placed)

1,100 1,000 2,000

$5 $20 $1

$5,500 $20,000 $2,000

EA.

300

$200

$60,000

Hard Amour Slope Stabilization (AASHTO R#6 size stone) Slope Plantings (1" Riparian Tree Species) Re-alignment of GAP Trail from the North

SF EA.

800 150

$75 $150

$60,000 $22,500

Earthwork Excavation of existing trail and new paving slot) Trail Construction (west of N 7th Street) Trail Construction (along Torrance Avenue) Stop signs at crossings (3 crossings, 2 signs at each) Pavement markings at crossings (3 crossings) Informational Signs (directional within the park) Directional Signage outside of the park (Approaches; Route 119 and W. Crawford Avenue)

C.Y. C.Y. S .Y. S .Y. EA. EA. E.A.

500 100 180 387 6 3 3

$16 $12 $44 $44 $250 $1,500 $1,800

$8,000 $1,200 $7,920 $17,028 $1,500 $4,500 $5,400

E.A.

4

$1,000

$4,000

Replace/Relocate Fence at Pump Facility (including removal)

L.F.

160

$30

$4,800

$49,548.00

Café-Kiosk Plaza

Remove raised boardw alk

$4,800.00 $53,000.00

AC. C.Y. S .Y. EA. S .F. EA. EA.

0 200 390 10 1,500 5 200

$3,000 $16 $45 $1,800 $3 $600 $30

$750 $3,200 $17,550 $18,000 $4,500 $3,000 $6,000

Building Earthwork Trail Construction Retaining wall (130 LF of 2.5' average ht.)

Landscaping (trees; including slope plantings above wall) Landscaping (shrubs; including slope plantings above wall)

$6,000.00 $170,000.00

Geotextile Material Live Brush Fascines (6"-8" Diameter) Stakes

Clearing Earthwork Outdoor Plaza Surface (decorative concrete) Site Furniture (tables, chairs and umbrellas) Asphalt Walks (8' Wide) Landscaping (trees) Landscaping (shrubs)

Total

$90,754.00 C.Y. S .Y. S.F.F. EA. EA.

2,000 366 650 4 150

$16 $44 $55 $600 $30

$32,000 $16,104 $35,750 $2,400 $4,500

L.S.

1

$3,600

$3,600

Subtotal

$3,600.00 $377,702.00

Phase Two- Structures, Parking and Walks Unit

Quantity

Unit Price

Total

Law n Bow l Earthwork Seed and Mulch Re-alignment of Torrance Avenue and New Parking Lot Clearing Earthwork Demolition of Paving Asphalt and Pavement Markings Pervious Pavers

Pennsylvania

Total $14,680.00

C.Y. SY

780 1,100

$16 $2

$12,480 $2,200

AC. C.Y. S .Y. S .Y. S .F.

0 370 1,600 925 8,400

$3,000 $16 $15 $32 $5

$1,200 $5,920 $24,000 $29,600 $37,800

$178,270.00

4-3

Yough River Park Asphalt Walks (6' wide) Utility Installation (Electric, water, sanitary, storm)

S .F. L.F.

6,000 300

$3 $150

$18,000 $45,000

Storm Sewer Structures

EA.

2

$1,600

$3,200

Access Control Gate (10' wide w/ Automated Control) Boulders for Access Control (5' x 5' x 3'; embed in concrete) Landscaping (Street trees) PA Fish & Boat Commission Parking and Launch Demolition of Existing Landscape Island Grind Existing Pavement Markings Asphalt Sealant Milling Existing Pavement Bituminous Wearing Course Pervious Pavers Pavement Markings Landscaping (Street trees) Boat Launch Ramp Demolish of Concrete at Existing Boat Launch Construct New Boat Launch Renovations to 'Cream of the Trail' Building

EA.

2

$2,500

$5,000

EA. EA.

15 8

$250 $600

$3,750 $4,800

S .Y. L.S. S .Y. S .Y. S .Y. S .F. L.S.

265 1 2,125 2,125 2,125 4,300 1

$5 $2,500 $1 $7 $8 $5 $5,000

$1,325 $2,500 $2,656 $14,875 $15,938 $19,350 $5,000

EA.

8

$600

$4,800

$66,443.75

$43,000.00 C.Y. S .Y.

125 600

$80 $55

$10,000 $33,000

Renovations to Existing Space New Construction Decorative Pavement at Restrooms Landscaping (trees) Landscaping (shrubs; bio-retention area) Bicycle Wash Area Bicycle Rack Raised Platform River Overlook at N 6th Street Axis

S .F. S .F. S .Y. EA. EA. L.S. E.A.

700 200 65 1 185 1 2

$50 $150 $45 $600 $30 $2,000 $1,000

$35,000 $30,000 $2,925 $600 $5,550 $2,000 $2,000

Clearing Earthwork Raised Concrete Platform Concrete Pad Reinforced (elevated w/ corrugated metal below) Steel Support S tructure (hexagonal) Metal Decking Structural Steel Supports (40' lengths, W12 X 14) Foundations/Pilings Steel Pipe Ice Breakers (6" diameter at corners) Railings (aluminum pipe) New Gazebo River Access at N 7th Street Axis

AC. C.Y.

0 200

$3,000 $16

$300 $3,200

S .F.

1,039

$12

$12,468

S .F. E.A. E.A. E.A. L.F. L.S.

1,039 3 6 6 100 1

$10 $2,600 $3,500 $600 $145 $25,000

$9,871 $7,800 $21,000 $3,600 $14,500 $25,000

Clearing Earthwork Construct New At-Grade River Access/Boat Launch Combined Sewer Storm Outfall Encasement New Pavilions

AC. C.Y. S .Y. L.S.

0 200 250 1

$3,000 $16 $55 $5,000

$300 $3,200 $13,750 $5,000

$78,075.00

$97,738.50

$22,250.00

$315,700.00

Pavilion Removal at Park E.A. Pavilion Removal at Historic Society Property E.A. Concrete Pad Reinforced (38' x 68'; 380 SY Each) S .Y. New Pavilion (30' x 60'; Timber Post, Stone Base and Shingle Roof)E.A. Central Pavilion (20' x 20'; Timber Post, Stone Base and Shingle Roof) E.A. New Playground Demolition of Existing Playground Locations

4-4

EA.

2 1 1,140 3 1

$5,000 $1,000 $55 $75,000 $17,000

$10,000 $1,000 $62,700 $225,000 $17,000

2

$5,000

$10,000

$108,263.00

Connellsville

Master Plan New Themed Play Equipment Resilient S urfacing Accessible Fiber Mulch Surfacing Decorative Fence (two sides of playground) New Tot-Lot

L.S. S .F. S .F. L.F.

1 1,680 3,920 185

$87,500 $3 $0 $27

$87,500 $4,200 $1,568 $4,995

New Themed Play Equipment Resilient S urfacing Accessible Fiber Mulch Surfacing Decorative Fence (four sided with gate) Install New Sidew alk System

L.S. S .F. S .F. L.F.

1 170 1,530 160

$15,000 $3 $0 $29

$15,000 $425 $612 $4,640

S .Y. S .Y.

660 2,133

$10 $32

$6,600 $68,256

Demolition of Sidewalk Paving New Asphalt Sidewalks

$20,677.00

Subtotal

$74,856.00

$1,019,953.25

Phase Three- Aesthetics and Functional Improvements Unit

Quantity

Unit Price

Total

Hardscape Area Beneath Memorial Bridge/Route 119 Decorative Pavements (including glass impregnated areas) Steel Accents Reinforced Concrete Seat Cubes Boulders for Access Control (5' x 5' x 3'; embed in concrete) Access Control Gate (10' wide w/ Automated Control) Lease Opportunity at PAFBC Boat Launch

S .Y. L.F. S .Y. E.A. E.A.

566 155 77 30 1

$60 $65 $500 $250 $2,500

$33,960 $10,075 $38,500 $7,500 $2,500

Concrete Pad Reinforced Bicycle Rack Bench 10'x10' permanent Structure (water and electric utilities) New Stage

S .Y. E.A. E.A. L.S.

45 1 2 1

$55 $1,000 $1,000 $30,000

$2,475 $1,000 $2,000 $30,000

AC. C.Y.

0.1 150

$3,000 $16

$300 $2,400

S .F.

600

$12

$7,200

S .F. E.A. E.A.

600 2 5

$10 $2,600 $3,500

$5,700 $5,200 $17,500

E.A. L.F.

5 56

$600 $145

$3,000 $8,120

EA. EA.

1 2

$2,000 $3,000

$2,000 $6,000

Clearing Earthwork Raised Concrete Platform Concrete Pad Reinforced (elevated w/ corrugated metal below) Steel Support S tructure (rectangular) Metal Decking Structural Steel Supports (40' lengths, W12 X 14) Foundations/Pilings Steel Pipe Ice Breakers (6" diameter at corners) Railings (aluminum pipe) Volleyball and Horseshoe Pits Volleyball Courts (including net and posts; no sand) Horseshoe Pits Subtotal

Grand Total

Total $92,535.00

$35,475.00

$49,420.00

$8,000.00

$185,430.00

1,583,085

The Total Costs do not include environmental permitting, design or mitigation; construction mobilization; field survey; geotechnical investigation; architectural design; or preliminary and final civil engineering and design for improvements.

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Yough River Park

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4-6

Connellsville

Yough River Park Master Plan

Appendix A Master Plan Illustrative Graphic

Connellsville, PA

Yough River Park Master Plan

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Connellsville, PA

YOUGH RIVER PARK MASTER PLAN

Mackin

CONNELLSVILLE, FAYETTE COUNTY, PA B3 NEW PARK PAVILION • ROUGH TIMBERS, NATIVE STONE, STEEL AND GLASS • SITUATED CLOSE TO PARKING • 60’ x 30’ (SAME DIMENSIONS AS EXISTING PAVILIONS) • OVERLOOKS THE RIVER AND LAWN BOWL

A1 PEDESTRIAN ACCESS TO ADJACENT LAND • CONNECT COLONEL CRAWFORD’S CABIN TO THE RIVER; IMPROVE HISTORIC SOCIETY PROPERTY’S ACCESS TO RIVER A2 PROGRAMMED SPACE AT THE HISTORIC SOCIETY PROPERTY • NATIVE AMERICAN ENCAMPMENT • FIRE PIT AND BENCHES; STORYTELLING AREAS; CULTURAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION • STONE AND TIMBER BUILDING MATERIALS

B7 RAISED PLATFORM STRUCTURE/RIVER OVERLOOK • RELOCATE EXISTING GAZEBO STRUCTURE TO PAD • ELEVATED CONCRETE PAD WITH ICE-BREAK BOLLARDS; FISHING LOCATION • HARD-ARMOR STABILIZATION EAST AND WEST OF STRUCTURE • IMPROVE RIVERBANK HABITAT; RE-VEGETATE AND STABILIZE RIVERBANK

B4 NEW PARKING LOT AT TORRANCE AVENUE • RE-ALIGN TORRANCE AVENUE (COORDINATE WITH THE CITY) • APPROXIMATELY 50 SPACES PROVIDED • MAINTAIN ACCESS TO ALLEY • PERVIOUS PAVERS AT PARKING STALLS AND SPEED-TABLE TO CONTROL TRAFFIC

A3 NEW HISTORIC SOCIETY PAVILION • APPROXIMATELY 60’ X 30’ (SAME DIMENSIONS AS EXISTING) • NATIVE STONE AND TIMBER CONSTRUCTION • FIRE PLACE OR PIT; WATER AND ELECTRIC

B5 LAWN BOWL AND RIVER ACCESS • NEWLY CONSTRUCTED ‘BEACH FRONT’ & NEW STAGE (FUTURE) • NEW CENTRAL PAVILION OVERLOOKING PARK AND RIVER • HORSE SHOE PITS, VOLLEYBALL AND OPEN LAWN BOWL

B1 ENHANCE YOUGH RIVER PARK ‘ENTRANCE/GATEWAY’ • INTERPRETIVE AND DIRECTIONAL SIGNAGE • DECORATIVE PAVEMENT TREATMENTS • 2’ x 2’ x 3’ CUT SANDSTONE BOULDERS PROVIDE ACCESS CONTROL AT PARK PERIMETER

B6 FRONTIER FORTRESS PLAYGROUND • THEMATIC PLAY STRUCTURES; FORTS AND BEE-HIVE OVENS • LOW SHRUB BUFFER BETWEEN PLAYGROUND AND PARKING LOT • UTILIZE SLOPE TOWARDS RIVER FOR AT-GRADE SLIDING BOARDS

B2 RIVER ACCESS AND KAYAK/CANOE LAUNCH

• CONSTRUCT RAMP AND AT-GRADE CONCRETE PAD WITH ICEBREAK BOLLARDS • RE-VEGETATE AND STABILIZE RIVERBANK EAST AND WEST; IMPROVE RIVERBANK HABITAT • ENCASE STORM PIPE OUTFALL TO SECURE AND MINIMIZE VISUAL IMPACTS

TO T

NO RT H

HISTORIC SOCIETY PROPERTY

VEGETATIVE BUFFER TO REMAIN

SION S I M COM G LOT T A O &B KIN R H S A I P F PA NCH U A L BOAT

D2

C4 B8 B6

D4

C5 C7

B3

A3

C6

D1

B7

B5

HE GAP TRAIL

C2 BUFFER SANITARY PUMP HOUSE • MOVE FENCE AND GATE CLOSER TO PUMP HOUSE; INSTALL SHRUB BUFFER

R E V I R Y N E H G

B2 A1

C1 GARDEN AREA AND PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLIST MERGE POINT • INTERPRETIVE AND DIRECTIONAL SIGNAGE AND LANDSCAPING • ACCESS CONTROL GATE FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY; 2’ x 2’ x 3’ CUT SANDSTONE BOULDERS

B8 NEW PAVILION AT N 6TH STREET • TIMBERS, NATIVE STONE AND STEEL BUILDING MATERIALS • 60’ x 30’ (SAME DIMENSIONS AS EXISTING PAVILIONS) • CENTRAL TO PLAY GROUND AND TOT-LOT • FIRE PLACE BUILT INTO 30” HT. RETAINING WALL AT PUMP HOUSE SLOPE • LIGHTED AND WITH ELECTRIC UTILITY

IO H G YOU

Mackin Engineering Company RIDC Park West 117 Industry Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15275-1015 info@mackinengineering.com

GAP TRA

IL

C2

E

NU E V A NCE

A TORR

R GAP T

D3

L

T AP

I RA

L SOU TH

D EV AR OU L LB RI A MO ME

D2 BOAT LAUNCH PARKING LOT • RE-CONFIGURE TO ACCOMMODATE TWO-WAY TRAFFIC AND 90˚ PARKING • INCREASE PARKING SPACES FROM 63 TO APPROXIMATELY 65 • TRAILER PARKING MAINTAINED

TRAI

D1 RE-CONSTRUCTED BOAT LAUNCH RAMP • WIDENED RIVER ACCESS TO ACCOMMODATE 2 OR 3 TRAILERS • STABILIZED RIVERBANK TO EAST AND WEST OF RAMP

T

T

C6 HARD-ARMOR RIVERBANK STABILIZATION • SANDSTONE BOULDERS AND NATIVE PLANTS • MAINTAIN VIEWS TO THE RIVER THROUGH THE USE OF LOW GROWING NATIVE PLANT MATERIALS • LEASE OPPORTUNITIES AT PERMANENT STRUCTURE ADJACENT TO BOAT LAUNCH; FOOD/BEVERAGES/BAIT; ELECTRIC UTILITY AT STRUCTURE

C7 HARDSCAPE BENEATH MEMORIAL BRIDGE • DURABLE, MAINTENANCE FRIENDLY MATERIALS • PAVEMENT PATTERNS INCLUDE GLASS-IMPREGNATED CONCRETE, STEEL AND COLORED CONCRETE • RAISED CONCRETE SEATWALLS THROUGHOUT THE SPACE • 2’ x 2’ x 3’ CUT SANDSTONE BOULDERS PROVIDE ACCESS CONTROL AT PARK PERIMETER

EE

E GAP

T

C5 OPEN GREEN AND PASSIVE RECREATION SPACE • EXISTING CANOPY TREES TO REMAIN • MAINTAIN ‘BEACH’ ACCESS • CURVILINEAR SIDEWALK LOOPS THE PARK FOR WALKING • REMOVE EXISTING BOARDWALK AND OPEN VIEW TO THE RIVER

TR

TO TH

STREE

C4 KIOSK PLAZA • GAP KIOSK • OUTDOOR SEATING AREA WITH DECORATIVE PAVERS, MOVEABLE TABLES AND CHAIRS, SHADE UMBRELLAS, BIKE RACKS, FLOWERING TRESS AND GERANIUMS •OPEN VIEWS TO RIVER ACROSS LAWN

T

• OUTDOOR EATING AREA AT KIOSK PLAZA; DECORATIVE PAVERS AND LANDSCAPING • Wi-Fi SERVICE/INTERNET ACCESS; SECURITY CAMERAS AT PARK •TAPERED RETAINING WALL (4’ HT.) ALLOW FOR GAP TRAIL ALIGNMENT BEHIND BUILDING

STREE

• SECURITY CENTER, PARK AND TRAIL INFORMATION AND RESERVATION CENTER FOR GAP • ADDITION TO BATHROOM FOR SHOWER UNITS • IMPROVEMENTS TO KITCHEN FOR CAFE’ AND LUNCH USE - LEASE OPTION/VENDOR OPPORTUNITY

B1

N 7TH

C3 ‘CREAM OF THE TRAIL’ RENOVATIONS • RENOVATE EXISTING BUILDING

GAP TRAIL

T

GAP TRAIL

N 6TH

GAP TRAIL

1S

TS

STREE

C1

B4

STREE

E TORRANC

N 4TH

A2

AVENUE

/R OU TE

11

9

G

N N 3RD

C3

AIL

D3 TRAIL ALIGNMENT AT TORRANCE AVENUE • SEPARATED 10’ TRAIL; PARALLEL TO TORRANCE AVENUE • CONNECT TO NORTH 3RD STREET WITH ONE STREET CROSSING (EXISTING ALIGNMENT REQUIRES TWO CROSSINGS) D4 VEGETATIVE BUFFER TO REMAIN • PROTECT EXISTING PLANT MATERIALS • REMOVE DEBRIS AND RE-VEGETATE THE RIVER’S EDGE TO MINIMIZE RIVERBANK EROSION 25

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Appendix B Meeting Minutes

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Trail Town Meeting City of Connellsville Yough Park Preliminary Site Master Plan Kick-Off Meeting Mackin Engineering Company Project No#. 4660-001

Monday July 7, 2008 at 9:30 am; at Miedels, Connellsville, PA Meeting Minutes

1. Attendees- Refer to attached Sign-In Sheet 2. Introduction a. Dexston Reed welcomed the attendees and gave a brief introduction to the project b. Cathy McCollom introduced the Progress Fund, the Trail Town Program and discussed the project funding source 3. Meeting Subject a. Robert Genter and Bill Moldovan of Mackin Engineering Company began the SWOT Exercise (Public discussion of the Park’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats). b. Robert Genter described the project and purpose of the meeting- to bring together interested parties to discuss the current conditions of Yough Park and to begin to plan for improvements to the Park. c. The design elements are to include improvements to the GAP alignment through the Park; provide for connections to other trails (Connellsville as the central hub); enhance the existing cultural, environmental and recreational features of the Park; consider the overall goal of positively positioning Connellsville as a central destination along the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) and generating economic growth.

4. The SWOT exercise discussed the following items: The Parks current use Park user needs Historical significance of items within the Park Special event Maintenance needs Vandalism

Canoe launching access and conflicts Flooding Existing Parking Auto Access, Ped Access, River Access Ownership of adjacent properties/impacts

M:\46xx\4660001\REPORTS\Connellsville\7.07.08 Kick-off mtg\7.07.08 Mtg Minutes.doc Date Sent: 7.16.08

ROW and Easements Sanitary and Storm systems Other utilities; electric, water, telephone, Wi-Fi GAP bike throughway and needs of users Trail User Needs

Future trail connections Park security and safety Sacred Park areas/elements Other Projects in the surrounding area

5. Next Step in the Process a. The next step will be to develop conceptual site plans and issue them for review and comment (plans will be issued via email to attendees). This process will be repeated to refine and complete the preliminary site master plan. b. Once an approved plan is complete, an application to DCNR for construction will be submitted.

This report was prepared by Robert W. Genter, Director of Land Development Services at Mackin Engineering Company. Mr. Genter believes that this report represents an accurate account of the discussions and actions as they occurred during the scoping meeting. If you have any comments or questions regarding these minutes or would like to add, delete or modify the above statements, please contact Robert W. Genter within 7 days from the date listed at the bottom of the page. If no modifications are requested within the specified timeframe, the above statements will be considered final and will be included in the Project File.

Mackin Engineering Company 117 Industry Drive Pgh, PA 15275 412.788.0472 rwg@mackinengineering.com

M:\46xx\4660001\REPORTS\Connellsville\7.07.08 Kick-off mtg\7.07.08 Mtg Minutes.doc Date Sent: 7.16.08

Trail Town Meeting #2 Connellsville Conceptual Site Master Plan for Yough River Park Design Review Meeting August 27, 2008, at 9:30 am, at Miedels, Connellsville, PA Mackin Engineering Company Project No#. 4660-001 Meeting Minutes

1. Attendees- Refer to attached sheet 2. Introduction a. Dexston Reed welcomed the attendees b. Cathy McCollom introduced the Progress Fund, the Trail Town Program and discussed Pgh 250; and events being held Sept 27th to celebrate Trail Towns on the GAP. 3. Meeting Subject a. Robert Genter and Bill Moldovan of Mackin Engineering Company began the presentation of the Concept Master Plans #1 and #2.

Bill described 3-zones of activity within the Park: historical/cultural, structured recreation and leisure; and large open space (flexible activity space). Other design elements included: providing more open space and views to the river; improving the alignment of the GAP Trail through the park; and providing for improved safety, visibility, surveillance throughout the Park. b. Bill Moldovan described the major design elements: opening up views and access to the river; stabilizing the riverbank; providing pedestrian walkways and accessible routes to and through the Park; improving canoe and kayak walk-in launch sites to the river; increasing parking numbers; providing for economic opportunities in the Park; enhancing the existing historic/cultural area facilities; providing for structured recreation and leisure activity area; providing for large open space; improvements to existing comfort facilities for Park and GAP users; and the creation of themed playground facilities for different age groups.

c. The attendees discussed the pros and cons for Concepts #1 and #2 and chose the Concept #2 GAP Alignment with elements from Concept #1 for park and recreation facilities. d. Mackin to create the preferred plan and bring the final plan to the September 27, 2008 Trail Town Opening for display.

4. Next Step in the Process a. The next step will be to develop the preferred site master plan; including detailed sketches, cross-sections and budget costs for construction and compile data into a report. b. The final report will include a project priority list including projected construction costs, technical assistance sources and potential funding sources.

This report was prepared by Robert W. Genter, Director of Land Development Services at Mackin Engineering Company. Mr. Genter believes that this report represents an accurate account of the discussions and actions as they occurred during the scoping meeting. If you have any comments or questions regarding these minutes or would like to add, delete or modify the above statements, please contact Robert W. Genter within 7 days from the date listed at the bottom of the page. If no modifications are requested within the specified timeframe, the above statements will be considered final and will be included in the Project File.

Mackin Engineering Company 117 Industry Drive Pgh, PA 15275 412.788.0472 rwg@mackinengineering.com

M:\46xx\4660001\REPORTS\Connellsville\Concept Reviews\8.27.08 Mtg Minutes.doc Date Sent: 8.28.08

Trail Town Meeting #3 Yough River Park Site Master Plan- Review of GAP Alignment October 7, 2008, at 1:00 pm, at Yough River Park, Connellsville, PA Mackin Engineering Company Project No#. 4660-001 Meeting Minutes 1. Attendees- Refer to attached sheet 2. Agenda Discussion a. Ted Kovall of the Youghiogheny River Trail Council (YRTC) began the meeting with a round table discussion of issues and concerns b. Bob Genter of Mackin Engineering Company discussed the events which lead to the recommendations presented in the current Yough River Park Master Site Plan- specifically for the GAP alignment: User conflict resolution Minimizing long-term maintenance and costs due to flooding, erosion and scouring Easily aligned and delineated trail to follow route through the Park Property concerns at Historic Society Parcel c. Additional issues were presented by attendees d. Attendees voted on two issues: 1. Maintain proposed GAP alignment per plan- Vote passed 6-4 2. Maintain parking layout per plan- Vote passed w/ alternatives 3. Next Step a. Mackin to complete the report for the preferred master site plan. The report to recommend the above approved recommendations with two alternatives for the parking lot layout 1. Head-in parking with parallel parking and a 2-lane cartway 2. Angled parking on each side with a 2-lane cartway b. The final report will include a master site plan, detailed sketches with project descriptions, construction budget costs, recommended project priorities, technical assistance sources and potential funding sources.

This report was prepared by Robert W. Genter, Director of Land Development Services at Mackin Engineering Company.

Mr. Genter believes that this report represents an accurate account of the discussions and actions as they occurred during the scoping meeting. If you have any comments or questions regarding these minutes or would like to add, delete or modify the above statements, please contact Robert W. Genter within 7 days from the date listed at the bottom of the page. If no modifications are requested within the specified timeframe, the above statements will be considered final and will be included in the Project File.

Mackin Engineering Company 117 Industry Drive Pgh, PA 15275 412.788.0472 rwg@mackinengineering.com

M:\46xx\4660001\REPORTS\Connellsville\Meetings\10.8.08 YRT Field Mtg\10.8.08 YRT.doc Date Sent: 10.08.08

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Appendix C Site Photos

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Appendix D Collected Base Mapping

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YOUGH PARK MASTER PLAN EXISTING FEATURES

Mackin Engineering Company RIDC Park West 117 Industry Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15275-1015 info@mackinengineering.com

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Appendix E Concept Plans and Sections

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Yough River Park Master Plan Parking Concept Alternatives for Torrance Avenue between N 7th and N 6th Streets November 2008 By: Mackin Engineering Company All parking improvements have been designed within the 50’ Right-of-Way (ROW) of Torrance Avenue and the Yough River Park property; ROW data taken from PENNDOT Memorial Boulevard Bridge (Route 119) drawings, included in Appendix D of this report.

Preferred Concept (refer to page 3-2 of this report) • Two-Way Traffic along Torrance Avenue (12’ lanes) and 90º parking (9’ x 18’ spaces) on both sides of the road. 60’ total width required.

• Pros for Preferred Concept o Maximize parking – 48 spaces provided o 90º head-in parking; easy to maneuver, and accessible by both lanes of traffic • Cons for Preferred Concept o Proposed parking extends approximately 30’ further into park than existing parking configuration (this distance includes the 12’ GAP trail alignment at the south side of new parking).

Alt. Parking Concept A • Two-Way Traffic along Torrance Avenue (12’ lanes), 90º parking (9’ x 18’ spaces) on north side of road and parallel parking (9’ x 22’) on south side of road. 51’ total width required.

• Pros for Alt. Concept A (as it relates to the preferred concept) o Proposed parking extends approximately 21’ further into park than existing parking configuration (this distance includes the 12’ GAP trail alignment at the south side of new parking). o 90º head-in parking on north side of Torrance Avenue; easy to maneuver, and accessible by both lanes of traffic • Cons for Alt. Concept A (as it relates to the preferred concept) o Parallel parking at south side of Torrance; more difficult to maneuver, and accessible from only one lane of traffic. o 34 parking spaces provided (14 spaces fewer than preferred concept).

Alt. Parking Concept B • Two-Way Traffic along Torrance Avenue (10’ lanes) with 30º parking on both sides of the road. 54’ total width required.

• Pros for Alt. Concept B (as it relates to the preferred concept) o Proposed parking extends approximately 24’ further into park than existing parking configuration (this distance includes the 12’ GAP trail alignment at the south side of new parking).

• Cons for Alt. Concept B (as it relates to the preferred concept) o Angled parking on both sides of Torrance; very difficult to maneuver; parking spaces accessible from only one lane of traffic in either direction. o 24 parking spaces provided (24 spaces fewer than preferred concept).