Lime Hollow Nature Center Trail For All Expansion & Nature Playground Design

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

We are excited to share the results of the Trail For All Expansion & Nature Playscape project at Lime Hollow Nature Center, conducted in the fall of 2022 by Design Connect Cornell. This report details the research and design process conducted for Lime Hollow over the course of a semester spent diving deep into accessible nature play, inclusive natural design, and the nuts and bolts of successful trail project planning. Located in Cortland County, Lime Hollow serves as a vital resource for the community, offering a Forest Preschool, summer camps, and over 13 miles of trails on 600 acres of land. The nature center also employs 11 full-time and 30 seasonal employees.

Our team was tasked with expanding the existing ¼ mile “Trail for All” at Lime Hollow, connecting it with the Lehigh Valley Trail to create over 3 miles of accessible trails. In addition, we were tasked with designing a nature playground that would connect the Visitor’s Center and Educational Center, unifying these two hubs of activity at Lime Hollow. To ensure that our design was informed by the needs and desires of the community, we conducted a variety of research, including a historical timeline of Lime Hollow, regional demographics, playground safety standards, accessible design principles, precedent studies, and community engagement best practices.

The trail design itself extends the existing “Trail for All” and features a central accessible “spine” with five key nodes along the way. We worked to minimize the regrading of the site through careful consideration of the topography and through this have created an accessible trail system that connects the Visitors Center, Educational Center, and the Lehigh Valley Trail. We also propose a second phase, an accessible boardwalk along Gracie Pond, to create a completely accessible loop trail for visitors.

The nature playground design includes elements that are concentrated in the Art Meadow and placed in pods north of the meadow, while others will be scattered around the site. These elements include a tree house near the Forest Home area, a swing near the pond overlook, and a stream installation off of the “Trail for All.” We created multiple design guidelines and suggestions for various categories of play features, including sensory garden elements, built structures, and loose play.

Finally, we have also designed a comprehensive wayfinding system for the site, including interpretive, wayfinding, and regulatory signs. These signs will use high-contrast colors to ensure visibility and accessibility, and should also include braille lettering and audio assistance. The interpretive signage will provide educational elements about local flora and fauna, increasing opportunities for nature-based education and environmental awareness.

Design Connect is a multidisciplinary, student-run, community design organization based in the Department of City and Regional Planning at Cornell University, fostering the mutual exchange of expertise and experiential learning between Cornell students and local municipalities in Upstate New York.

Participating in Design Connects provides students with practical experience and partners with low-cost, viable design and planning services.

Frey Ranaldo BS, Urban and Regional Studies

Marcus Benoff MA, Landscape Architecture

Alex Panovka BS, Urban and Regional Studies

Sarah Carrillo MA, Regional Planning

Graduate PM Caleb Smith MA, Regional Planning

Ashley Herrera BS, Design and Environmental Analysis

Undergraduate PM Cynthia Liao BS, Landscape Architecture / BS, Urban and Regional Studies

Xizi Yu MA, Landscape Architecture

Sonakshi Gambhir MA, Landscape Architecture

Jichu Zhang BS, Landscape Architecture

PROJECT TIMELINE

Aug 26

Sept 11

Key Events Project Managers Initial Site Visit

First Team Site Visit

Oct 14 Oct 15 Oct 19 Oct 20 Nov 08 Nov 10 Dec 08 Dec 16

Community Engagement Survey Opens

Creatures of the Night

Lime Hollow Board of Directors Meeting Interviews

Cornell Design Connect Midterm Review

Project Featured in Cortland Standard

Community Engagement Survey Closes

Cornell Design Connect Final Review

Final Report Delivered to Lime Hollow

BACKGROUND RESEARCH BACKGROUND RESEARCH BACKGROUND RESEARCH BACKGROUND RESEARCH

In the early stages of the project, the team conducted a thorough background research phase to inform the design process. This included exploring the history and existing condition of the site, researching the demographics of the region, and reviewing guidelines and requirements for accessible design. Additionally, we conducted precedent studies to gather inspiration and best practices from similar projects. All of this research was conducted in preparation for the community engagement phase, where we sought input from various stakeholders to ensure that our design would meet the needs and desires of the community.

About Lime Hollow

Lime Hollow Nature Center was incorporated as a nonprofit in 1993 but has been a place for community gathering and nature connection for much longer. A community-based plan was formed in the late 1960s to save the Lime Hollow area from development and preserve it for its ecological value. Cortland County is one of two counties in all of New York State which does not have a state park; Lime Hollow serves this function for the residents of Cortland County and the surrounding community. Lime Hollow offers a unique forest preschool model of child-care, a consistent and long-serving summer camp option that many people use as a child-care option during out-of-school time, and the 600 acres and 13+miles of trails are used regularly by classes, schools, universities, various disability, and accessibility rights organizations, as well as residents and visitors to the area.

Site History

Lime Hollow Nature Center was incorporated as a nonprofit in 1993 but has been a place for community gathering and nature connection for much longer. A community-based plan was formed in the late 1960s to save the Lime Hollow area from development and preserve it for its ecological value. Cortland County is one of two counties in all of New York State which does not have a state park; Lime Hollow serves this function for the residents of Cortland County and the surrounding community. Lime Hollow offers a unique forest preschool model of child-care, a consistent and long-serving summer camp option that many people use as a child-care option during out-of-school time, and the 600 acres and 13+miles of trails are used regularly by classes, schools, universities, various disability, and accessibility rights organizations, as well as residents and visitors to the area.

Regional Demographics

The director of Lime Hollow drew an area around the center from which most of its visitors come. We looked at the demographics of the 36 census tracts that were at least partially enclosed in the boundary. A summary of the results can be found in the following charts. The study boundary with a marker pointing to the center is on the right.

Playground Safety

Natural playgrounds, with a different construction from everyday metal and plastic playgrounds, have a partially different set of safely standards. With organic structures, fewer gripping points, and a lack of guard features, nature playgrounds are generally riskier, but more environmentally sustainable. They stimulate children in different ways from the common prescribed structural playgrounds and encourage exploration— all while being organic—in line with the Lime Hollow Nature Center’s goals.

Precedent Studies

Natural playscape for both children and adults

Natural materials to create textures and experience

Active playscapes for children but provides visibility for parents

Case #2 Tumbling Bay Playground

Project Location: London, UK Built: 2014

Net structure for climbing

Semi-enclosed space for children hideout

Wood logs for creating towering playscapes

Stone provides interesting topography

Community Engagement Best Practices

In preparation for Design Connect’s partnership with Lime Hollow, we investigated precedent reports and studies regarding multigenerational community engagement, in an effort to better connect with the youth and elderly users of the Nature Center. This diagram represents the principles that our team valued the most in forming our relationship with the Lime Hollow community.

Case #1

Hashorim Park

Project Location: Israel Built: 2014

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

During the community engagement phase of the project, the team designed and carried out three main engagement strategies to gather input and feedback from stakeholders. These included a survey to obtain basic information on current and potential users, interviews with key stakeholders, and a participatory activity that targeted children of various ages to creatively think about their future playground. We took the opportunity to be actively involved with the local community, participating in the Creatures of the Night event and talking with the Board of Directors and other staff members. The results of these engagement efforts were analyzed to inform our design decisions, and this was a very important part of our design process that greatly influenced the final outcome.

Survey Design

In an effort to better connect with the community of Lime Hollow, Design Connect published a brief 5-10 minute survey to engage in an open discussion and collaboration with the center’s network of constituents. This survey was intended to help our team better understand the Lime Hollow experience, and therefore more comprehensively recognize the area’s characteristics and the ways in which people engage with the space.

There were two modes of distribution for this survey: hard copies and a digital link. Members of our team attended Lime Hollow’s Creatures of the Night event, where we were able to talk directly to the nature center’s users– consisting mostly of parents with children and staff of Lime Hollow. At this event we also had QR codes on handouts and posters to direct people to the digital survey, if they wanted to complete it at a later date. Our team created multiple social media posts that Lime Hollow published to their social media accounts, which was a primary method of spreading awareness to the digital survey. We then entered the information from the hand written copies into the digital database before the survey closed on Thursday, November 10th.

A key motivation behind the creation and distribution of this survey was to better understand the site’s accessibility from a first hand perspective, which is why the survey also offers an optional section for those who experience Lime Hollow with a disability to elaborate on their experiences and how the center could improve their ability to access the space. These responses signaled to us physical interventions that Lime Hollow could make to improve the accessibility of their trails, including: frequent rest points with benches, an extension of the accessible portion of the center’s trails, and a variety of seating options to accommodate those with accessibility constraints such as a wheelchair.

Respondent Demographics

The survey additionally collected demographic data: age, county of residence, education level, and disability status. These categories help us better understand who is taking our survey. Responses were primarily gathered from those in the age range of 35-44 with a turnout of 41%, with all other age ranges being relatively evenly distributed at an average of 13.35% (except for those under 24, which garnered a total of only 3 respondents). County divisions demonstrate a clear majority of Cortlandt County residents, with the only other statistically significant response being Tompkins County. A majority of respondents obtained either a bachelors or masters degree, with results of 40.4% and 43.9%, respectively. Lastly, a total of 12.1% of those who took the survey signaled that they do have a disability that impacts your ability to experience Lime Hollow.

“Some of the least traveled trails can be a bit confusing, especially in the autumn and early spring when they are hard to see naturally. The blazes are usually adequate but once in a while are spaced just far enough apart to be confusing. A few more benches to sit and rest/ watch nature would be nice too. Otherwise, the trails are just about perfect!”

- SURVEY PARTICIPANT

Survey Response

This Chart visualizes the desired trailed amenities, revealing an exponentially high response rate for those ranking directional trail signage as their first choice. This signals to us that this is a key and necessary implementation for the center, something that is wanted by most users. There was also a fairly large turnout for those interested in more benches along the trails, and this data was echoed by multiple long answer responses with requests for more seating opportunities.

Survey Analysis

As a short response question, we asked participants of the survey how the trail can become more userfriendly. The general consensus was to increase signage, widen trails, and add amenities such as benches and maps. One response included the barriers seasonal foliage present, “Some of the least traveled trails can be a bit confusing, especially in the autumn and early spring when they are hard to see naturally. The blazes are usually adequate but once in a while are spaced just far enough apart to be confusing. A few more benches to sit and rest/watch nature would be nice too. Otherwise, the trails are just about perfect!”. The general tone of participants responding was overall positive and eager to expand and retrofit the Trail for All. Additionally, participants who have a disability were asked if they feel comfortable sharing how their disability impacts their experience at Lime Hollow Nature Center. Responses from participants emphasized the physical barriers that are currently present at Lime Hollow, which included, difficulty pushing a wheelchair, the distance between the parking lot and the trail, accessible bathrooms along the trail, and the need for hard-packed surfaces. Through these findings, Design Connect is able to take into consideration the needs and desires of users at Lime Hollow Nature Center, with the goal of creating a more accessible and equitable resource.

Directional Trail Signage

Interpretive Signage Stations

Tables

Shaded Rest Areas

Benches

Drawing Activities

As part of our design process, we conducted a drawing activity to gather input from the children on their desired playground features. This open-ended activity allowed the children to use various materials to depict their dream playgrounds on paper, encouraging expression and creativity. The results of the activity indicated that the most popular features among the children were climbing structures, tree houses, and swings, with climbing structures being the most highly requested.

Based on these findings, we have developed a range of wooden playground features, including tree houses, net climbing, and wooden slides, which will enhance the natural surroundings and provide a cohesive texture. These features will be incorporated into our plans for improving the playground facilities and features at Art Meadow.

Allowing the children to explore and discover Art Meadow and Lime Hollow on their own encourages a connection with the natural environment, which is a valuable learning experience that cannot be gained through traditional schooling. By gathering input from the children and incorporating it into our design plans, we aim to create a playground that is both functional and enjoyable for all users.

Interviews and Press Release

Over the course of the semester we interviewed the Lime Hollow Nature Center’s board, groundskeepers, teachers, forest preschool director, and former nature center director. These interviews were meant to give us a more thorough understanding of Lime Hollow’s operations and create more feasible designs. Glenn Reisweber, the former director of Lime Hollow, held the position for 15 years and oversaw the construction of many projects, including the currently existing trail for all. He shared that his biggest challenge was securing long term maintenance for these projects so he stressed the importance of choosing low maintenance and long lasting designs. He also gave us insight into the center’s relationship to local, county, and state government. Cortland county is one of only two counties in New York to not have a state park, and as a result, Glenn believes that collaboration with government agencies has and will continue to play a key role in expanding the scope of Lime Hollow’s projects while providing outdoor recreation to nearby communities.

Matt Fendya, one of the groundskeepers, shared similar information, particularly regarding maintenance. He provided insight into what would minimize trail accessibility difficulties, and where attention should be prioritized. With regards to pay structures, he stressed the importance of limiting contact between wood and soil in order to reduce rot. Matt also emphasized the importance of letting children form their own habitats, what plant species are dangerous for them, and which ones are frequently invasive on the property and require keen maintenance.

Expanding accessibility

Lime Hollow trail to accommodate ‘all abilities’

By JOHN CONLON Staff Reporter jconlon@cortlandstandard.com

Lime Hollow Nature Center will renovate its Trail for All, increasing its accessible trail span from around a quarter mile to 3 miles and adding play features for families.

“This is an opportunity to really create a multi-generational space for people of all abilities,” Lime Hollow Executive Director Ilya Shmulenson said Monday. “We’ve seen over the last couple years that nature is the great equalizer for bringing people together where they’re most happy and healthy.”

The center has partnered with Design Connect, a Cornell student-run community design organization, to make that vision a reality.

While Lime Hollow has developed its Trail for All for more than 15 years, Shmulenson said he and his staff re-cently felt a need to expand it. “We’ve noticed over the last year or so that we want to make sure our cam-pus is more accessible,” he said.

He said accessibility changes will help a variety of Lime Hollow’s visi-tors, including wheelchair users, fami-lies with young children and strollers, and visitors who struggle to navigate the trails as they age.

“Some people can’t hit the trails like they used to,” Shmulenson said. “We want to be able to provide an opportunity to experience nature in a way that’s accessible to them.”

You play a role

bubble and work with local organizations.

Smith said residents can com-plete the survey to give designers information on how they use Lime Hollow, how often they visit, what amenities should be included, and how to accommo-date different age groups.

Shmulenson said the quarter-mile Trail for All now starts at the visitor center; the expansion project would create more than 3 miles of interconnected, accessible trails extending from the visitor center to the Eric Kroot Art Trail to the Lehigh Valley Trail.“The people who are new to the area tend to access the trails from the visi-tor center,” he said. “This is the most popular trail for us, so we want it to be the most accessible.”

Caleb Smith, a Cornell regional planning masters student and co-project man-ager with Design Connect, wants to integrate community comment to the plan.

“We really want to hear from folks in the community about what kinds of trail amenities they want to see,” Smith said.

Smith said Design Connect’s groups of eight to 10 students work with municipalities and organizations to give them access to designers without break-ing the bank; it’s also a way for students to break out of the Cornell

“Maybe you’re walking with grandma and she wants to take a break and sit on a bench,” Smith said. “There could be play amenities next to it to keep the grandkids entertained.”

Smith said those amenities are being designed so they could be built with recycled materials to keep with Lime Hollow’s rugged aesthetic. “We’re working with Lime Hollow to try to figure out a plan that is mostly doable in house. …We don’t want to quote out a bunch of expensive equipment,” Smith said.

Shmulenson said Lime Hol-low is already considering a few accessibility improvements.

“Some of the things we’re thinking about are reducing slopes, adding benches along the trail so if you need to take a break you can, and widening certain sections of the trail for when two wheelchairs or stroll-ers might cross paths,” he said.

He would also like to see an expansion of interpretive signage.

“That way people know what they’re getting into. You know where your rest points are, where your difficult points are and what the trail looks like,”

Shmulenson said.

Lime Hollow is also looking to add more natural play features to trails for children.

“We actually have a few of those already,” Shmulenson said. “Natural structures built with just logs and paracord. Kids can climb, build shelters. We’ve talked about installing bigger tree stumps where kids can climb and jump and practice balance.”

Smith said the planning aspect of the project should be done by mid-December. In late spring or early summer, Shmulenson expects volunteers to begin the work on the project.

Shmulenson said a project completion timeline would be dependent on design work and costs.

Maryfaith Miller, the forest preschool director, pointed out the value of using natural materials and processes to engage the children with change, structure, and the ability to shape their own environment. Emily Lane, one of the teachers, further added that kids like the adventurous feelings that come with getting lost, and that carving out spaces and looking for critters are frequent activities. These observations from staff members at Lime Hollow provided critical first hand information that would shape our later design process.

Our work is also published in the Cortland Standard newspaper, which helped us get the word out about our project and the survey, as well as serving as a potential source of future volunteers and labors.

Photo provided by Lime Hollow Nature Center

Jacob and Rina Shmulenson visit Lime Hollow’s Art Meadow. Lime Hollow will soon expand its Trail for All to allow greater accessibility to the Art Meadow.

DESIGN DESIGN

The general design process for perspective playscape structures revolved around Lime Hollow’s desire for nature-based play. Our design team placed an emphasis on creating structures that utilize easily sourced materials, in an attempt to reduce construction costs and maintain the majority of playscape fabrication on-site. This local sourcing also remains consistent with the goal of distributing natural elements throughout the play environments. These designs further take into consideration maintenance necessities, in the pursuit of minimizing costs and labor required for upkeep. These structures are intended to engage children in ways that resemble traditional playgrounds, but incorporated into the overall rustic feeling of the nature center and with a specific focus on ADA accessibility and engagement through unique forms of play.

TRAIL EXPANSION

Schematic Plan

2. 3. 5. 6.

1.

After discussions with our client and multiple site visits to confirm our analysis, the design proposes the accessible trail network shown in red and nodes that provide rest areas along the route. The trail connects all active areas between the two entry points and down to the Lehigh valley, a significant public trail. The trail goes through the art meadow with the play spaces, main school campus, and forest preschool where we propose a tree house.

PARKING

CAMP MCLEAN

CAMP GUSTAFSON

EDUCATION CENTER

VISITOR CENTER

MCLEAN ROAD

GRASS CLEARING PODS

WELCOME PLAZA

BOARDWALK

CARETAKER RESIDENCE OUTLOOK

ADA REST POINT

Site Analysis

The site presents some of the following concerns (labeled on schematic plan):

1. Area of slope greater than 8.33%

2. Junctions without proper wayfinding signage and potential for ADA rest point

3. Lookout deck needs repair and maintenance

4. Signage incomplete and inaccessible

5. Road maintenance required, during rains it becomes slippery and has potholes

6. Width of trails in the woodland areas is narrow for two way comfortable wheelchair accessible movement

15th, 2022

Below: Digitally derived slope map. Green = 0%-5% slope, Yellow = 5%-8.3%, Red = > 8.3% slope

There are currently three slopes in the area that exceed the Americans with Disabilities Act’s standard range of 8.33% for trails, making them inaccessible. Additionally, the existing trails do not meet the demand of walkers. In our proposed plan, we have created a loop trail that connects the wetlands and forest preschool views, improving accessibility to the Lehigh Valley Trail. We have also included rest stops along the trail, complete with benches and shaded areas, to make the experience more enjoyable and accessible for all ages

Right: Slope measurements taken on-site on November

Accessibility Analysis

The existing Trail for All is 1/4 of a mile and features graded slopes. The trail is made up of a stone gravel surface suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, and walkers. The Trail for All connects to the Art Trail which is 1/3 of a mile long. Currently, Lime Hollow Nature Center offers wheelchairs with heavy-duty tires adequate for inaccessible terrain. Gathering responses from the public through the “Lime Hollow Experience” survey, there is a strong desire to increase the length of the trail and create connectivity across different areas of Lime Hollow Nature Center.

In order to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Architectural Barriers Act (ABA), trails must have an absolute minimum clear tread width of 36 inches - one way. Primary trails for two people using wheelchairs must have a minimum clear tread width of 60 inches and 60 inches long in order for those with disabilities to comfortably walk through.

A slope ratio of 1:20, meaning for every 1 foot of vertical rise, there are 20 feet of horizontal distance required. As a grade, this translates to 5%, the slope of a trail must be steeper than 5% but no more than 8.33%. With rest stops slopes cannot be more than 3% in any direction, if the surface is paved or built with boards the slope can’t be steeper than 2% in any direction. Cross slopes are an important element within ADA and ABA standards as they provide drainage to keep water from ponding and damaging the trail. To ensure water will not pool on the surface a slope should not exceed 5%.

The location of the trail itself is an important consideration as trails should provide clear paths that aren’t too close to overhangs or high amounts of vegetation. Where the trail begins should connect with accessible parking spaces and other outdoor amenities.

The proposed main trail has a length of 2,030 feet. With varying widths of six to eight feet, the trail’s new extensions have varying slopes within ADA standards. Materials of the trail are small hard gravel that follows ADA standards and can be sourced locally. The stones vary in color and provide another layer of wayfinding. The purpose of different colored stones for different regions is to alert visitors that they are nearby a specific zone/area. Proposed sites include the Eric Kroot Art Trail, Tamarack Arts Meadow, and nearby the Education Center.

Through the Community Engagement Survey, many participants expressed the need for rest areas. Five rest areas are sited within the trail map, these rest areas should include a bench that is accessible for all participants, the image shown proposes a bench with a full-length grab bar that enables users to transfer on and off the bench. The ADA requires 36” clearance along all usable sides of the table measured from the back edge of the bench, and sufficient knee and toe clearance under the table (27” height, 30” width and 19” depth) for access, maneuverability, and comfort (Americans with Disabilities Act, 1990).

Trail Design Process

SITE ANALYSIS

ZONING NODES

CENTRAL ACCESSIBLE SPINE

The design of the trail accessibility meant that the slope of all ADA routes would be less than 8.33%. For that, we did the existing trail analysis and mapped areas of concern with high slope, way finding issues, and a lack of sense of entry near the main campus. Then we mapped existing nodes on site - areas of high use and activity, junctions, and noted a lack of trail loops.

PROPOSED TRAIL NETWORK

The design proposes the concept of a central accessible spine connecting the nodes. The centrality ensures that all design spaces are well connected to the ADA route. Further, the design iterations propose alternate routes that meet ADA guidelines, identifies areas of regrading and also proposes a welcome plaza near the main campus.

PRIVACY AND WAYFINDING CONCERN

LACK OF SENSE OF ENTRY

LACK OF TRAIL LOOPS

CENTRAL MAGNET

The construction of the trail constitutes decomposed granite as the ADA compliant material followed by Geo textile membrane, crushed gravel and compacted earth as sub layers following the existing construction for easy low cost maintenance. The woodland areas are 4-6’ wide while the meadow areas are 8’ wide with a 2% sub surface slope.

MEADOW AREAS

PLAYSCAPE DESIGN

The design of the art meadow mostly focuses on creating opportunities for playscapes as well as maintaining existing attractive features. The opening lawn at the north side of the art meadow would be expanded and contain playground features designed by our team members. Several new circles of grass clearings would be placed closely north of the existing lawn and would contain sensory playscape features. Tree houses are also suggested to be installed at the south of the site.

We recommend that most play elements be concentrated in the Art Meadow, either in the grass clearing pods on the northern edge or along the western edges of the Art Meadow to preserve the popular open field. Other sets will be scattered around the site, such as a tree house near Forest Home, a swing near the pond overlook, and a stream side exploration area situated near the Trail for All.

Please note that the designs presented on the following pages are intended to only be illustrative of general design principles and concepts, and do not necessarily reflect recommended dimensions, arrangements, or potentially necessary safety features. Additionally, the locations indicated on the Master Plan for these play features should similarly be taken as recommended potential locations for reference and can be modified as needed by Lime Hollow throughout the course of the project.

The decision to solely offer design recommendations and general principles was made to honor Lime Hollow’s rich history of volunteerism and strong DIY ethic. To maintain this aesthetic, play features should be added iteratively and through deep collaboration with the greater Lime Hollow community, with these ideas as a starting point.

The edge of table to a table leg should be a minimum of 19 inches

An accessible table has a surface height of no more than 34 inches and no less than 28 inches above the floor

Width between table legs should be 30 inches minimum

Intent: These garden beds will accomodate those in wheelchairs who wish to touch the plants or garden. The tables allow for them reach from a wheelchair.

Age Group: All Ages

Accessibility Level: Wheelchair Accessible Materials:

• Wood

• Plastic

• Metal

- Creatures of the Night Participant

“I would like an herb garden!”

Sand Wood Slabs Bricks Stones Grass

Bricks can line the path or break up each texture

Intent: Everyone of all ages can take off their shoes and experience a wide variety of tactile sensations through their feet, a less used part of the body for sensations of touch. Age Group: All Ages Accessibility Level: Not Handicap Accessible

ANIMAL ORCHESTRA

Metal lid from trash can Bamboo Metal Tubes

Wood posts can hold up the instruments or other tactile elements

Intent: Stations located throughout the garden can be interactive instruments hanging on frames and made from recycled materials.

Age Group: All Ages Accessibility Level: Wheelchair Accessible Materials:

• Wood/Bamboo

• Plastic

• Metal

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE

Can be stacked on top of each other

Intent: The movable elements will allow children the creative freedom to manipulate their physical environment. Each item is stackable and can be found from recycled materials. Age Group: All Ages

“More loose play elements are needed for children to explore.”

MAGIC TREE HOUSE

Both railing and nets in large gaps should be usead to ensure safety for small children

Platform connects to accessible trail to make tree house accessible. A second ramp could connect the tree house to the Lehigh Valley trail creating a fully accessible path.

Best Location: near forest home on the slope between the Art Meadow and Lehigh Valley Trail

An access point and ladder could be added so children can climb rather than use the ramp

A ground floor could be added to improve accessibility and provide more space

Intent: This tree house, being one of the most commonly suggested play elements, would be placed on the slope leading down to the Lehigh Valley Trail, near Forest Home. With its primary mode of entrance being a ramp, the tree house would be accessible to all ages and the mobility impaired.

Age Group: All Ages

Accessibility Level: Wheelchair Accessible

Materials: Wood

“Tree House” was mentioned many times in community engagement sessions.

Intent: This play element will feature a ground-accessible platform at level with the upper portion of the hill for wheelchair access, and a curved slide on one side. The other side will feature a rock-climbing wall, and the underside can function as a hideout space. It will be usable throughout all four seasons.

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Climbing holds will add another mode of climbing

Site sourced logs can be recycled as climbing structures.

Metal hooks/mounts allow for easy removal of net when necessary

Maintenance: remove cargo net in the winter.

Intent: This play structure is intended to satisfy the climbing desires of children attending Lime Hollow. The structure provides different modes of climbing, as well as different levels of play that can be applicable to varying age groups. replacing logs every 2-3 years also allows for updates to the aesthetics of this structure.

Maintenance: replace logs every 2-3 years for structural integretiry. “Dream Playground” drawn by child atendee of Lime Hollow’s Creatures of the Night

Metal hooks/mounts allow for easy removal of net when necessary

Site sourced wood can be recycled as planks for bench and swing.

Select tree and anchor point after careful assessment of the tree’s species, condition, and the surrounding terain.

Area with benches serves as rest point along trails, as well as a place for guardians to watch their children using the swing

Intent: This swing will overlook the water, providing a restful spot to relax or take a break from walking the trails. The area surrounding the swing offers further seating oppurtunities in the form of one or multiple benches, which would also allow for gaurdians to watch their children as they use the swing.

Site sourced logs can be recycled as balance beams.

Additional pieces can be placed nearby to create a more engaging play system.

To prevent rotting, the beams can rest on treated stumps, or relocated rocks.

Intent: This log balance system will be constructed from available materials to create a younger age group friendly climbing set. The locally sourced wood will give the set a natural feel, and its low height will be safe for a younger audience.

Age Group: Youger Children

Accessibility Level: Not handicap accessible

Materials:

• Wood

• Stone

“

... A natural playground made of wood would be cool to see.”

- Community Engagement Participant

Intent: Along the southern side of the Trail for All, a section of the woodland edge along Beaver Creek is proposed to be converted to a more open space with few smaller wildflowers. The carefully placed addition of boulders will allow children to step across the brook and around its edges to interact with the water, aquatic life, and space throughout the seasons. A section of the trail is proposed to be widened, allowing adults of all ages to step aside and/ or sit to watch children play and explore.

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• Fine gravel for trail

Matt Fendya, the building and grounds superintendent, and Ilya Shmulenson, the executive director, both see it benefitting the nature center and Forest Preschool to have an engaging waterfront space along this trail.

Trail Expansion

Stepping BEAVER PLAY

stone boulders

Planting Selection

Species: In keeping with the species and plant communities present on the site, the main botanical addition in the scope of this project is a small plantation of about four Salix babylonica (Weeping Willow) and one Salix nigra (Black Willow). The willow plantation will be located near the southwestern corner of the pond area.

Uses: The purposes of the willows are twofold: 1. They support an array of wildlife, from various Lepidopterans to birds, small mammals, and a significant chunk of the natural food web. 2. They, especially the Weeping Willows, can have their trailing braches cut and woven or spun unto structures, such as the one pictured to the right. With a tendency to grow back fast, these trees will provide plenty of stems and branches for structural fun and production.

Preschool Fire Pit Area

One of the desired amenities expressed by multiple staff members during the design charrette and in one-on-one interviews was the need for a more protected, outdoor area with a fireplace/hearth for the Forest Preschool during the winter months. With this in mind, we propose the creation of a medium sized open-air shelter with a central fireplace for use by the Forest Preschool throughout the year, but especially during the winter months. This shelter should have have walls on one or two sides to protect from the prevailing winds, and a central fireplace

made of stone, cobb, or another natural building material. This new addition to the infrastructure of the Forest Preschool would allow for greater time spent outdoors during the colder winter months while ensuring that students and teachers have a warm, dry space to relax in if needed.

salix babylonica (Weeping Willow)

salix nigra (Black Willow)

structures woven with willow stems and branches

Grass Clearing Pods

Wayfinding Design Explanation

Current wayfinding elements feature maps and regulatory signs. Signs are within ADA standards for height and length. Structures are made of natural lumber and blend in with the surrounding greenery. Regulatory signage maintains contrast in black and white, informational and interpretive signs vary in color. Design Connect’s recommendations for wayfinding consist of information displays along with structural posts that support visual navigation. The following design proposals consist of a mix of signs listed below.

The proposed signs incorporate Design Connect and Lime Hollow’s identity. Using high-contrast colors that are typically not seen in a natural environment, high visibility allows trail visitors to identify and see the navigation materials effectively and without disorientation. Consistent use of color also captures the identity of Lime Hollow. Elements to increase accessibility were incorporated through braille lettering and audio assistance tools.

Additional wayfinding is included throughout the trail to incorporate educational elements of the site. Including plant life, bug life, and general facts about Lime Hollow Nature Center. The purpose of this is to increase engagement and awareness with Lime Hollow visitors, providing the opportunity for nature-based education and environmental connections.

Signage Typologies

Interpretive Signs

The overall purpose is to set the tone and message of the place and are typically Welcome Stands which introduce the setting. Interpretive Signs display current programming, engaging stories and graphics/images to support the trail.

Wayfinding Signs

These signs provide pedestrian orientation on the location of nearby sites and open spaces and are located on trail crossings and access points.

Regulatory Signs

These signs make visitors aware of regulations applicable to the site such as dogs must stay on leash at all times, no smoking, etc.

Trail Markers

Signs that alert the visitor of mileage and any adjacent trails or connections.

PROJECT PHASING

MCLEAN ROAD

PARKING

Phase 1.2: Repair and widen existing Trail for All to existing service driveway. Create an ADA rest point.

Phase 2.1: Expand Trail for All to connect Lehigh Valley through the Art Meadow by establishing a central accessible spine.Regrading and other earthwork are required to meet ADA guidelines.

Phase 2.2: Activate playscape in the Art Meadow and other parts of Lime Hollow. This phase will need vegetation clearings for the art meadow pods and play structure assembling and installation.

Phase 1.1: Repair and widen existing Trail for All and outlook

Phase 4: Complete the trail loop across the site by establishing an accessible boardwalk along the Gracie Pond.

Phase 3: Establish sense of arrival and wayfinding for visitors entering from the forest preschool/ education center parking lot.

LEHIGHVALLEY

CAMP MCLEAN

CAMP GUSTAFSON

EDUCATION CENTER

VISITOR CENTER

GRACIE POND

MEADOW PLAY AREA

GRASS CLEARING PODS

FOREST HOME TREE HOUSE

WELCOME PLAZA

BOARDWALK

CARETAKER RESIDENCE OUTLOOK

AMPHI THEATRE

EXISTING TRAIL FOR ALL EXPANDED TRAIL FOR ALL

EXPANDED TRAIL FOR ALL

BUDGET PLANNING

Trail for All Budget Narrative

The Trail for All expansion at Lime Hollow Nature Center has been divided into three main sections for cost estimation purposes: the existing trail, the art meadow section, and the forest connection to the Lehigh Valley Trail. Within each section, costs were further broken down into brush clearing, site preparation, and actual trail construction. These estimates were sourced from Gordian’s RSMeans construction cost database and were based on digital elevation models and aerial imagery.

For the existing trail section, costs were primarily for widening it to a width of 6 feet and for making surface repairs. Grading estimates were calculated using digital elevation models, but amounts of cut and fill could not be determined without a professional survey. To ensure consistency, trail construction materials and techniques will be mirrored after those used on the existing trail for all sections.

A full budget breakdown, including detailed cost estimates for each section and subcategory, can be found on the next page. The total projected cost for the Trail for All expansion at Lime Hollow Nature Center is outlined below:

Component Cost Length (ft)

Trail Section 1 (Art Meadow)~$5,489.32699‘ Trail Section 2 (Art Meadow)~$30,846.761,043’

Trail Section 3 (Forest) ~$6,663.97288’ Trail Total ~$43,000.052,030’

Playscape < $10,000 n/a PROJECT TOTAL ~$53,000.05 n/a

Playscape Budget Narrative

There are several factors that contribute to the large uncertainties in the cost estimations for the proposed playscape equipment at Lime Hollow. One factor is that Lime Hollow has a large network of volunteers and partnerships with local schools and businesses, which can help reduce the costs of labor and materials. For example, sets such as the log balance and loose play can likely be built with no cost, as logs are readily available and little construction is needed. However, the climbing logs and cargo net set may require the purchase of a cargo net, which can cost between $100 and $500. The sensory garden may also require some construction in order to make it handicap accessible, which could raise the cost to no more than $1,000. On the other hand, the planting section, which will consist of live willow structures, can be built easily with volunteer labor, but the materials may cost upwards of $300. Some items, such as the tree house and hilltop extension, will require more initial investment, with the tree house potentially costing around $7,000 and the hilltop extension costing close to $1,000. The swing overlooking the pond will require materials such as rope and wood, which are readily accessible and cheap to purchase, but the highest cost may be the metal hooks/ fasteners used to secure the swing to the tree, with an overall cost of no more than $100 at the maximum. Despite these costs, Lime Hollow’s access to volunteer labor and donated materials will likely allow them to significantly reduce the overall cost of the playscape, which is estimated to be less than $10,000. A full budget breakdown can be found next page.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Ilya Schmulenson, the executive director at Lime Hollow, for his invaluable help and vision. Without his support, this project would not have been possible.

We would also like to thank Noelle Schuh, a SUNY Cortland student, for her previous research and work on the project. Her contributions have been invaluable.

We are grateful to the Lime Hollow Board of Directors and staff for their insight and ideas. Their support and guidance have been invaluable.

We also want to thank the community members who participated in the various outreach opportunities. Their input and feedback were critical to the success of the project.

We are especially thankful to the Design Connect board and Professor Michael Andrew Tomlan for their leadership and guidance. Their expertise and support were crucial to the success of the project.

Finally, we want to recognize and thank the team members for their great work. Their dedication and hard work were instrumental in the completion of this project.

PHOTO ALBUM