Smethport Trails Master Plan and McKean County Master Plans

Smethport Trail Study and Master Plans for the McKean County Complex and McKean County 4-H & Fairgrounds June 2011

P a s h e k

A s s o c i a t e s

Acknowledgements This project was financed in part by a grant from the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund under the administration of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation.

McKean County Commissioners Mr. Joseph DeMott Mr. Al Pingie Ms. Judy Church

Mercer Raceway Park Mr. Tom Gilson

McKean County Economic Development Mr. Mike Roche, Director Mr. Raymond McMahon

Potato Creek Trail Association Ms. Sally Newton Mr. Les Jordan, Jr. Mr. Ross Porter

McKean County Planning Department Ms. Debbie Lunden

Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club Mr. Corky Hall

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REGISTRATION NUMBER 001240

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Smethport Borough Mr. Ross Porter, Mayor Ms. Patricia Witchen, Borough Council

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Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau Ms. Linda Devlin, Director

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McKean County Raceway Mr. Rich Yeager Mr. Tom Gleason Mr. Rod Biehler

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McKean County Fair Board Mr. John Berne

Prepared by:

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McKean County Conservation District Ms. Sandy Thompson, District Manager

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Table of Contents

Chapter One Introduction and Background Project Introduction...................... 1-1 Keystone Principles...................... 1-3 Project Location............................ 1-4 Review of Existing Planning Efforts........................................... 1-4 Population Trends......................... 1-8 Existing Park System.................. 1-12 Project Benefits........................... 1-15 Why a Master Plan...................... 1-17 Chapter Two Site Inventory and Analysis Site Information and Analysis....... 2-1 Smethport Area Trail System........ 2-3 Analysis of Existing Trails and Opportunities........................ 2-17 Trails Site Analysis..................... 2-29 McKean County Complex.......... 2-31 McKean County Complex Site Analysis...................................... 2-61 McKean County Complex Concept Plans.............................. 2-67 Concept Plan 1............................ 2-69 Concept Plan 2............................ 2-73 County 4-H & Farigrounds......... 2-75 County 4-H and Fairgrounds Site Analysis...................................... 2-89 McKean County 4-H & Fairgrounds Concept Plan........... 2-91

Chapter Three Master Plan Recommendations Recommendations......................... 3-1 Park Sustainability Guidelines...... 3-1 Green / Sustainable Project Scorecard....................................... 3-5 Smethport Trail Improvements.3-7 Hamlin Lake Trail Access Plan..... 3-9 Hamlin Lake Access Improvements Probable Construction Costs...................... 3-11 Hamlin Lake Trail Access Phasing Plan................................ 3-13 Potential Partners........................ 3-16 Smethport Borough and Wolfinger / Potato Creek Trail Systems....................................... 3-17 Smethport Borough Trail Enlargement................................ 3-27 Regional Trails Concept Plan..... 3-39 Smethport Trails System Probable Construction Costs...................... 3-11 Trail Easement Agreements........ 3-35 Potential Partnerships.................. 3-39 Areas for In-Kind Contribution.. 3-41 Trail Development Standards...... 3-43 McKean County Complex Master Plan Recommendations..................... 3-68 Master Plan................................. 3-75

Opinion of Probable Construction Costs.......................................... 3-101 Phasing Plan.............................. 3-111 McKean County 4-H & Fairgrounds Master Plan Recommendations................... 3-115 Master Plan............................... 3-127 Opinion of Probable Construction Costs.................... 3-129 Phasing Plan.............................. 3-133

APPENDICES Appendix I County Complex Deed and Lease Appendix II 4-H and Fairgrounds Deed and Lease Appendix III Potato Creek Trail Association By-Laws Appendix IV Poor Farm Cemetery Burial Survey

Introduction and Background

Project Introduction The McKean County Economic Development Office, the McKean County Planning Department, and the McKean County Conservation District recognized an opportunity. That opportunity being to improve recreation, wellness, and economic development opportunities in and around Smethport Borough on County-owned land, building upon Smethport Borough’s on-going economic development efforts.Therefore, the County applied for and received a Pennsylvania Community Conservation Partnership Program grant to fund a three component study, including: • An assessment of the feasibility of creating a trail network connecting Smethport Borough to two County Parks (discussed below) and beyond. The plan envisions a variety of trail types, including walking, equestrian, snowmobile, ATV, and multi-use paths, with interpretive signage. A visitors’ center in the former Shawmut Depot would house restrooms, an information center, and a gallery space for local artists and artisans.

• A master plan for a 345-acre, County-owned park located ½ mile west of the Borough in Keating Township. This property contains several county facilities, including the County Planning Department, County Conservation District and Penn State Extension offices.

The majority of the site consists of farmland, pasture, and forest.

Marvin Creek, classified by DEP as a cold water fishery, traverses the property. The County would like to use the site for educational programming, ecological restoration, forest conservation, and passive recreation. Proposed improvements may include 1) creation of an environmental education center, demonstration areas and an interpretive trail; 2) enhacement of Marvin Creek’s riparian buffers; 3) preservation of wooded areas and development of walking trails; 4) improvements to an existing snowmobile trail; and 5) Best Management Practices (BMP’s) for agricultural uses adjacent to the creek.

• A master plan for a 25-acre County park ½ mile east of the Borough in Keating Township that houses a 4-H facility and stock car racetrack. Planned upgrades to this site include paved, handicapped-accessible paths; an improved stage; reconstructed

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barns, overnight camping facilities and racetrack resurfacing.

This study will provide McKean County, the County Conservation District, Smethport Borough, and Keating Township with the framework for making decisions regarding the development of facilities to meet the educational, environmental, agricultural, economic, and recreation needs of these proposed community assets.

Throughout this document the inventory, analysis, and recommendations for each component will discussed in the following order: 1. Trail Planning 2. County Complex Planning 3. 4-H Complex Planning This study, in conjunction with the McKean County Greenways and Trails Plan, will provide recommendations for establishing a corridor of conservation land and recreational open space. This plan will assess ways to link this corridor to nearby trail systems and parks to create an interconnected greenway system.

The proposed projects are consistent with the goals of the recently completed McKean County Comprehensive Plan to “expand recreational facilities and programs that bring vitality to communities;” and to “sustain the regenerative capacity to produce crops, timber, game, and clean water supplies and quality environments for wildlife and human recreation.” In addition, the McKean County Natural Heritage Inventory (NHI) classifies Marvin Creek as part of the Potato Creek Watershed Conservation Area. Efforts to restore and protect the stream and surrounding land will implement the conservation objectives of the County NHI. This plan also advances the recommendations in the Smethport Heritage Communities Program Workplan, completed in September 2006. The Workplan suggests the Borough support heritage tourism by increasing recreational opportunities and connecting to other trails in the region.

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Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Action Plan/Keystone Principles The projects proposed in this plan promote and respond to the following goals of Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Action Plan: a) Open space preservation in the County parks and creation of interconnected trail corridors will help promote statewide land conservation. b) Similarly, creating new parks and recreational trails will help build and maintain sustainable and attractive communities in Smethport Borough and Keating Township. Stream restoration and forest preservation will conserve natural resources while trail development will connect and promote heritage resources. The parks and trails will supplement the green infrastructure network by linking to nearby trails and to the Allegheny National Forest. c) Finally, the County Parks and trails will create outdoor connections for citizens and visitors. Snowmobile, walking, ATV, and equestrian trails will provide a variety of year-round recreational opportunities that will bring people into contact with nature. The new demonstration projects, interpretive trails and 4-H facilities will increase awareness of and sensitivity to the region’s natural resources.

The projects proposed herein are also compatible with several of the Commonwealth’s Keystone Principles in that they conserve and restore environmentally sensitive lands and natural areas; maintain and improve recreational and heritage assets; foster walkable, bikeable neighborhoods; and support multi-municipal, county and local government planning.

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Project Location - McKean County Location McKean County is located along the North Central Pennsylvania-New York border. Smethport, the county seat, is located 70 miles from DuBois, PA; 15 miles from Erie, PA; 155 miles from Pittsburgh, PA; 100 miles from Buffalo, NY; and 220 miles from Harrisburg, PA. US Routes 6 and 219 intersect at Lantz Corners in the southwestern portion of the County.

Geography McKean County is located in the Appalachian Plateau Province west of the Ridge and Valley Province. It includes portions of the Allegheny and Susquehanna River Basins. The natural history of the County created glacial deposits of sand, gravel, silt, and clay on the surface, and bituminous coal, oil, and natural gas underground.

Most McKean County residents enjoy a traditional rural lifestyle and work hard at blue collar jobs. Most own their own homes and have at least a high school education. Recreational and social activities typically center around school events and civic, church, and veterans’ clubs. Many residents pursue hunting and fishing as prime leisure activities along with cooking, antique collecting, gardening, woodworking and crafts, camping and boating. They tend to be conservative consumers and include a relatively high number of military veterans.

McKean County Comprehensive Plan 2007 - Vision Statement “By 2017, McKean County, PA, has a growing, diverse, and viable economy. Its strong educational and economic institutions embrace the heritage and spirit of entrepreneurship.

Using sustainable development practices, the County protects its rural character. Fueled by its abundance of well-managed natural resources, the County has emerged as a premiere geotourism destination known for its cultural opportunities and recreational experiences.”

McKean County Comprehensive Plan 2007 - Summary of Goals With an understanding of the fundamental values for community development and resource conservation, goals for each plan element were prepared. These goals provide the framework for areas of special focus and

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specific actions to be taken by the County and its partners. The following is a summary list of the goals found in each plan chapter.

Land Use Goals 1. Establish and implement preferred land use patterns that reflect community goals and quality of life, and in turn bolster property values.

2. Direct development/ redevelopment to desirable locations where it can be served efficiently with public infrastructure and public services and to conserve the rural agricultural and forest landscapes.

3. Protect farmland soils, forest vegetation, and ground and surface waters from development and associated impacts to their presence and quality; sustain their regenerative capacity to produce crops, timber, game, and clean water supplies and to provide quality environments for wildlife habitat and human recreation.

4. Implement cooperative arrangements from regional planning to shared services to municipal consolidation to result in cost effective land use management.

5. Provide public information resources and forums of various kinds to steadily promote a broader understanding of land use planning, benefits, and the County’s land use vision.

Economic Development Goals 1. Educate and train the workforce to support and grow supply chains and attract local industry.

2. Identify, build, and promote local industries, retail development, and tourism.

3. Focus on the appropriate, necessary land use and infrastructure to support growth.

Transportation Goals 1. Prioritize transportation investment on system maintenance to help sustain existing community and economic centers.

2. Expand the transportation system and transportation services, particularly within planned growth areas.

3. Minimize future travel demand in rural areas through land use planning.

4. Manage scenic view-sheds through land use planning.

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Infrastructure and Public Services Goals 1. Maintain and expand public water and sewer utilities in support of planned/designated growth areas and the economic development strategy.

2. Ensure clean groundwater supply.

3. Foster and support action by effective public and private sector partnerships for the provision of health and wellness services from prevention through treatment.

4. Facilitate proper disposal and recycling of solid waste.

5. Support the provision of quality public education at commensurate millage rates.

6. Expand recreational facilities and programs that bring vitality to communities.

7. Ensure fully trained, equipped, and staffed public safety services that effectively serve all residents and businesses.

8. Support installation, expansion, and use of broadband and other information technology infrastructure.

Housing Goals 1. Expand the range of housing options to meet the needs of all population segments, including retirees and first time home buyers.

2. Target planned growth areas, which are already served by water and sewer infrastructure, or planned for future service, as prime housing locations.

Resource Conservation Goals 1. Sustain the regenerative capacity to produce crops, timber, game, and clean water supplies and quality environments for wildlife and human recreation.

2. Preserve, promote, and interpret historic resources that enable citizens to connect with the rich heritage of the County’s past generations.

Collectively, these goals represent the broadest view of McKean County’s desires and intentions for its future—its comprehensive community development and resource conservation strategy.

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Smethport Route 6 Heritage Vision Smethport, in the year 2015, is thriving economically, as a new generation of entrepreneurs, building on Smethport’s heritage and rich natural resources, are making it a hub of innovation, driven by new technologies. A vibrant, pedestrian-friendly business district has shops, lodging, restaurants, and places of worship. A promenade, dwellings, and restaurants surround the town’s centerpiece, Hamlin Lake. Visitors and residents enjoy the year-round recreational opportunities of Hamlin Lake and the surrounding mountains and forests. Residents have a high quality of life, created by merging the town’s rich heritage with its traditional values.

The corridor offers a broad range of employment and entrepreneurial opportunities and exceptional experiences. Public and private infrastructure make the corridor accessible and provides economic opportunities for strengthening communities while enhancing its natural, cultural, scenic, and recreational and historical resources.

• Enhance appearances of entrances to the community • Improve/beautify downtown business district • Facade improvement for historical museum, government buildings, and churches • Cleaning up buildings destroyed by fire • Developing tours/signs for the Historic Mansion District • Improving Hamlin Lake Park • Enlarge and develop the Smethport Area Chamber of Commerce • Develop a weekly newspaper to promote community activities • Establish a Community Revitalization Corporation to seek revitalization funds • Develop building codes focused on heritage, attracting visitors, and business Source: www. smethportchamber.com

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Demographics of McKean County (Sources: 1990, 2000, 2007 U.S. Census Data)

Population Trends According to the U.S. Bureau of Census, McKean County’s population decreased slightly during the 1990s and decreased sharply from 2000 to 2007. From 1990 to 2000 the decreased by 2.5%, placing the County in 61st position among the state’s 67 counties. The 2007 U.S. Census population estimates projected an additional decline in the county’s population of 5.0% resulting in a population estimate of 43,633 residents.

McKean County Population Year Population Change Percent (Persons) Change 1990 2000

47,131 45,936

--1,195

--3%

2007

43,633

-2,303

-5%

Population projections were prepared in for the McKean County comprehensive plan. These projections estimate that the county’s trend of population decline will stabilize over the next 20 years, with a slight chance of an increase after 2010.

These projections are consistent with enrollment projections prepared by the Pennsylvania A Department of Education for each of the public school districts. These projections suggest that the decline among school age residents will stabilize around 2013.

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McKean County as Compared to North Central Region McKean County vs. North Central Region (Population Projections calculated in the McKean County Comprehensive Plan, 2004)

Year 2000 2010 2015 2020 2025

McKean County

North Central Region

(percent change)

(percent change)

45,936 (Census 2000) 44,830 (-2.41%) 44,955 (0.28%) 45,189 (0.52%) 45,504 (0.7%)

234416 (Census 2000) 234,274 (-0.06%) 236,270 (0.85%) 238,790 (1.07%) 241,810 (1.26%)

Population Density McKean County’s boundaries contain 982 square miles, the 11th largest county in Pennsylvania. The County’s 2000 population of 45,936 ranked it 47th among Pennsylvania’s 67 counties. With an average of 14.6 people per square mile, the County ranks 59th. The statewide average for population density was 274 people per square mile, which is significantly greater than that of McKean County.

Household Size With 21,644 housing units, McKean County ranked 49th. The County had an average of 22 housing units per square mile, placing it in 59th position among the 67 counties. Statewide, there were 117 housing units per square mile. From 1990 to 2000, the number of housing units in McKean County grew by 0.9%, ranking 63rd in rate of increase in housing units. The number of households increased by 1.0%, ranking McKean County in 61st position among Pennsylvania’s counties. According to 1997 estimates in the 2000 Census, 13.7% of residents in the County were below the poverty line, the 11th highest number among the 67 counties. Statewide, 10.9% of Pennsylvania residents were below the poverty line during the same period.

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Age Distribution The median age of County residents was 38.7 years, ranking McKean County 35th place in ascending order of median age within the state.

Statewide, the average Pennsylvanian was 38.0 years old. The age distribution for McKean County in 2000 was nearly identical to the distribution statewide.

Age

Total Population Children Under 5 years 5 to 9 years 10 to 14 years 15 to 19 years Adults 20 to 24 years 25 to 29 years 30 to 34 years 35 to 39 years 40 to 44 years 45 to 49 years 50 to 54 years 55 to 59 years 60 to 64 years Seniors 65 to 69 years 70 to 74 years 75 to 79 years 80 to 84 years 85 and over

2000 State Average 27%

54%

20%

2000

1990

Number Percent Number Percent 45,936 100% 47,131 100% 12,028 26% 13,089 28% 2,620 6% 3,048 6% 3,038 7% 3,279 7% 3,224 7% 3,292 7% 3,146 7% 3,470 7% 26,245 57% 26,160 56% 2,492 5% 2,876 6% 2,851 6% 3,237 7% 3,156 7% 3,742 8% 3,387 7% 3,497 7% 3,698 8% 3,138 7% 3,316 7% 2,573 5% 2,893 6% 2,291 5% 2,372 5% 2,255 5% 2,080 5% 2,551 5% 7,663 17% 7,882 17% 1,936 4% 2,299 5% 1,937 4% 1,938 4% 1,606 3% 1,607 3% 1,143 2% 1,174 2% 1041 2% 864 2%

Income According to the 2000 Census, median family income in McKean County was $33,040. The county median is much lower than the statewide median of $40,106.

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Housing Characteristics In 1990 there were total households in McKean County. By comparison, in 2000 the number of households was 18,024, an increase of 1.03%. The median value of owner-occupied housing units in the county per the 2000 Census is $53,500.

Conclusions from Demographic Data McKean County’s population of children, 0 to 19 years of age, and active adults, between the 20 and 64 years of age, are slightly higher than average while the County’s population of seniors is slightly below average. This demographic makeup indicates there is a greater than average need to provide recreation opportunities for children and active adults, while also continuing to meeting the recreation needs of the County’s active senior population.

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Existing Park System Park systems are traditionally described according to a hierarchy recognized by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).

These classifications include: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Regional Reserves Regional and Metropolitan Facilities Community Parks Neighborhood Parks Special Use Facilities

These classifications are explained herein, and the corresponding facilities located in the region and project area are identified as to their classification.

Regional Reserves The regional reserve park is a facility designed more for the conservation of natural resources than recreational development. This type of park typically accommodates activities such as nature study, trail uses, camping, boating, and fishing. Regional reserve parks are considerably larger than regional/metropolitan parks, but have the same 40 to 50 mile service area.

Regional reserves within a 50 mile service area of the two county sites include the following: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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Bendigo State Park, Elk County Chapman State Park, Warren County Cherry Springs State Park, Potter County Clear Creek State Park, Jefferson County Cook Forest State Park, Clarion County Denton Hill State Park, Potter County Elk State Park, Elk County Kettle Creek State Park, Clinton County Kinzua Bridge State Park, McKean County Lyman Run State Park, Potter County Ole Bull State Park, Potter County Parker Dam State Park, Clearfield County Patterson State Park, Potter County Prouty Place State Park, Potter County S.B. Elliot State Park, Clearfield County

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• • • • • • • • • •

Sinnemahoning State Park, Cameron and Potter County Sizerville State Park, Cameron and Potter County Clear Creek State Forest Cornplanter State Forest Elk State Forest Moshannon State Forest Sproul State Forest Susquehannock State Forest Tiadaghton State Forest Tioga State Forest

• Allegheny National Forest Regional / Metropolitan Facilities This type of park or other recreational facility generally serves communities within a one-hour driving time radius. These parks accommodate many types of outdoor facilities, some of which may require large amounts of land, or special facilities, such as special events, swimming opportunities, hiking, camping, and bicycling.

• University of Pittsburgh, Bradford Community Parks and Facilities This type of facility serves a large percentage of the local population.

While some people may be within walking distance of a community park, most users would arrive by automobile or bicycle. Due to the necessary travel time to reach this type of facility, it becomes a special destination, which is reflected in its features and facilities. A community park accommodates various types of activities and is usually large enough to provide space for large facilities (such as ball fields and swimming pools), group activities, and solitary pursuits (such as hiking or bird watching).

The focus of a community park is to accommodate the recreational needs of a particular community.

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Community parks in the study area include: • Hamlin Lake Park Special Use Facilities Individual sport fields, sport complexes, or facilities geared towards one type of use, such as a fairground, exemplify a special use facility. This type of facility is typically not located within a traditional park. Whether publicly or privately owned, this type of facility serves as a unique destination.

• McKean County 4-H and Fairgrounds Complex Linear Parks and Trails In addition to these traditional park classifications, linear parks and trails are another important consideration when planning for the region. Trails in the region include: • • • •

North Country Trail Potato Creek Trails Wolfinger Trail System Tuna Valley Trails

Where appropriate, the facilities identified herein are further described in this planning document.

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Project Benefits Benefits of Parks and Recreation Parks and recreation are an essential part of the quality of life in a community. Their benefits include: Community Benefits • Providing places for community events • Offering opportunities for physical exercise • Providing a place to safely enjoy the natural environment Environmental Benefits • Preserving habitat and wildlife • Protecting ecosystems • Reducing pollutants • Provides opportunity of education Economic Benefits • Attracting businesses and their employees to the area • Increasing property values • Expanding tourism Benefits of Trails Recreational opportunities such as trails play an important role in the attraction of residents, businesses, and economic activities to a community.

A few direct benefits include: • Trails promote healthier lifestyles by providing opportunities for walking, hiking, and bicycling.

• Trails provide an alternative mode of transportation and reduce the negative environmental impacts associated with combustion engine vehicles.

• Trails help create a sense of place and community by encouraging residents to interact with each other.

• Trails generate positive economic impacts by increasing tourism and enhancing land and property value.

• Trails help reduce stress and create a balance between work and play.

• Trails highlight natural resources found in the region.

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Benefits of Agriculture and Ecology Education Agriculture plays a critical role in the economy and quality of life in McKean County. To be sustainable, agriculture must be ecologically sound, economically viable, and socially responsible. Sound soil and water conservation practices on farms, including sustainable forestry practices, benefit the environment through cleaner streams and lakes, safer groundwater, and more abundant wildlife habitat. A profitable farm is less dependent on federal farm policy and less susceptible to the pressures of urban sprawl. Agriculture can provide the surrounding community with nutrient-rich locally produced foods that can reconnect farmers with consumers.

Children and adults in and outside of the local agricultural community need to be made aware of the importance of agricultural in the community, the costs of producing food for our tables, and the benefits of sustainable farming. This will help to ensure training of a future generation of farmers, the education of future consumers, and development of opportunities and economic incentives for local farms. All of the above are important to the growth of the sustainable food market, the preservation of agricultural lands, the quality of the environment, and the health of the community.

Project Specific Benefits The trail network will create year-round recreational opportunities and better accessibility to attractions both within the Borough (Hamlin Lake Park, the Mansion District, and the downtown shopping district) and outside of it (the two County properties). Improvements to the County properties will provide a venue for education activities dealing with stream ecology and protection, stormwater management, agricultural best management practices, and responsible forest management. Moreover, enhancements to the 4-H facility and racetrack will provide for greater public accessibility, improved educational and recreational facilities, and the sustainable management of all aspects of the property into the future.

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Why a Master Plan?

The Master Plan will provide McKean County with a blueprint for making decisions regarding recreational development that will enhance the quality of life for residents.

Master Planning involves an analysis of natural features, such as topography, hydrology, soils, and vegetation; as well as collaboration with interested citizens to identify future development. This multi-tiered method, involving the County as well as residents in the surrounding communities and their decision makers, yields both short and long term strategies for recreation facility development. It is essential to note that the Master Plan is meant to be a flexible tool for planning. Specific details of the design and the final locations of facilities may be adjusted through subsequent design.

A thoughtful Master Plan identifies ways to maximize recreational opportunities with the most efficient use of resources. Facilities are re-used wherever possible to reduce new development costs and to prevent unnecessary disturbance of land. Careful planning can also reduce operating and maintenance expenses. Therefore, efforts are made throughout the plan to identify improvements and strategies that are feasible and affordable to the County.

What is Involved in Master Planning?

A Master Plan involves a number of steps, including the following: • Analyzing community and recreation related background information; • Establishing goals and objectives for site development; • Encouraging public participation via study committee meetings and public input sessions; • Preparing an inventory of existing site facilities and conditions; • Conducting a site analysis of natural and cultural resources; • Preparing a master site development plan • Estimating construction costs • Preparing a phased capital improvements plan; and • Identifying implementation strategies to finance the capital improvement plan.

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What is involved in Trail Planning?

The goals of the Trail study are to: • Protect and enhance the existing trail / stream corridor and ensure its viability for a recreational trail.

• Determine the feasibility of constructing a multi-use trail connecting the county property with the 4-H Grounds through Hamlin Park and connecting to main street in Smethport Borough.

• Involve the general public in the development of the trail study by using a variety of public outreach techniques throughout the public process.

• Provide opportunities to develop partnerships 1) among local governments; 2) between private property owners, local governments, and state agencies; 3) between the public, private, and nonprofit sectors; and 4) with municipal / inter-municipal organizations, departments, and authorities.

• Identify links between conservation of natural resources, recreation opportunities and economic prosperity.

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Site Inventory and Analysis

Site Information and Analysis When planning for the future development it is important to understand the sites as a whole. Information on the community’s history and demographics provides context within which to begin determining what the demands and deficiencies are for any given facility. Equally important is the physical characteristics of the sites, such as topography, hydrology, soils, and vegetation.

The following documents and analyzes the characteristics of each of the components being studied herein, including: 1. Smethport Area Trail System 2. McKean County Complex 3. 4-H and County Fairgrounds

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Smethport Area Trail System Smethport Borough and its surrounding communities provide several trails which if connected can provide a regionally significant destination trail system. These trails include: Wolfinger Trail System The Potato Creek Trails Association’s mission is to design, construct, maintain, mark, and map a network of multipurpose non-motorized trails for hiking, biking, canoeing & kayaking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and equestrian uses. Their network of multipurpose trails and trailheads encompasses the Borough of Smethport. This system is known as the Wolfinger Trails. The Potato Creek Trails Association also maintains a close association with the Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club.

This trail system currently includes the following trails: • • • • • • • • • • •

Magnetic Avenue Cross Country Skiing Trail Sandy Lane Trail North Trail Short Cut Trail Mountain Top Loop Trail Smethport Overlook Trail Shawn’s Short Cut Trail Kelly’s Walk Trail Wolfinger Trail Indian Rocks Trail Potato Creek Water Trail (under development)

Hamlin Lake Park Hamlin Lake Park in the Borough of Smethport contains the Goosechaser Trail. A master plan, completed in 2009 by Hughes Engineering, proposed additional trail development within and around the park.

Shawmut Railroad Grade Trail The grade of the former Pittsburg, Shawmut & Northern Railroad is visible west of U.S. Route 6, beginning on the property of Smethport

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Borough. This corridor extends west into Keating Township, through the County Complex, and continues west to Marvindale. At Marvindale the corridor heads in a southerly direction towards Clermont, and into Elk State Forest further to the south.

The corridor is unimproved, but used by locals. The ownership status of this corridor is unknown.

Bradford, Bordell, and Kinzua (BB&K) Railroad Grade Trail The former Bradford, Bordell, and Kinzua Railroad grade is evident on the County Complex and extends in a westerly direction. The BB&K Railroad operated a narrow gauge line, therefore, this corridor is narrower that its counterpart, the Shawmut grade which also extends through the County Complex.

The BB&K corridor extends west, through State Game Land No. 62 and meets with the former Knox Kane corridor in the vicinity of Kinzua Bridge State Park.

The corridor is also unimproved, but used by locals. The ownership status of this corridor is unknown. That said the Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club has received permission from adjacent land owners to use the corridor as a snowmobile trail to reach Kinzua Bridge State Park.

Devils Den Trail The Devil’s Den Trail is approximately 1.5 miles in length and extends through, by agreement, the Hertzog property. This hiking trail can be accessed from the southern portion of the Smethport Area School District Complex property. It extends south to the ridge top, then west along the ridge and dropping down the hill to U.S. Route 6, across from Sena Kean Manor.

Smethport Schools Nature Trail A nature and environmental education hiking trail extends around the east, south, and western perimeter of the Smethport Area School District property. This hiking trail is approximately one-half mile in length.

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Mt. Jewett, Kinzua, and Ritterville Railroad (MJK&R) Grade Trail Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club The former MJK&R grade is evident just west of the Smethport Country Club on State Route 59. This corridor extends west to McKean and eventually Kushequa where it connects to the existing Westline Trail, and connects with other hiking and snowmobile trails in the Allegheny National Forest.

The corridor is also unimproved, but used by locals. The ownership status of this corridor is unknown. That said the Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club has received permission from adjacent land owners to use the corridor as a snowmobile trail.

Pennsy Grade Railroad Trail - Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club The former Pennsylvania Railroad grade parallels Potato Creek.

Heading south, from the McKean County Fairgrounds, the corridor continues to Hamlin Station at which point it turns east and continues to Clermont where it meets the existing Clermont Trail.

Heading north, from the McKean County Fairgrounds, the corridor continues to Farmers Valley and Eldred.

The corridor is also unimproved, but used by locals. The ownership status of this corridor is unknown. That said the Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club has received permission from adjacent land owners to use the corridor as a snowmobile trail.

Through this planning effort the County desires to develop a plan to extend the existing trails to connect to the County Complex to the west, and to the County Fairground to the east. Each of these proposals are described in greater detail later in this document.

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The focus of this trail study is two-fold. First, it is to identify whether trails can be developed to connect the County Complex to the 4-H and Fairground property. Between these two facilities are: • Smethport Borough with its quaint historic district • a vibrant main street which includes the McKean County Courthouse • Hamlin Lake Park, the Borough’s crown jewel park and recreation facility Second, to determine if and how these trails might be connected to trail efforts of the region.

To understand Smethport, one needs an understanding of the history of this quaint town, how important that history is to those who live there, and how it is being used to stimulate economic development activity in the town.

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Smethport History The history of Smethport has been well documented by Ross Porter, Mayor, and documented on his web site www.smethporthistory.org. The following are excerpts from this extraordinary web site that documents the Borough’s history, events, and places.

www.smethporthistory.org Smethport is in the midst of a community-wide renaissance based on a renewed awareness of its history, translating that history to define and build its future.

Since the earliest days Smethport has been considered a topographic crown jewel of the Pennsylvania Wilds region. The moment the traveler enters Smethport they feel the hills wrap around them and from any direction they know that they have discovered a special place. A short drive from the Allegheny National Forest and Kinzua Bridge State Park, Smethport is about two hours from Erie and Buffalo and five hours from Philadelphia and New York City. The Smethport area is teaming with natural game, wildlife, and outdoor recreational opportunities. With its many festivals and events residents enjoy an active community and cultural life. The 1,700 residents have been bustling with renewed focus and interest as the Borough embraces opportunities and grass roots initiatives for economic and tourism development.

It was in 1807 that Dutch land investors, while surveying a giant track of land they purchased from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, discovered this most perfect valley and named it in honor of the Dutch banking family, the deSmeths, who financed their land investments.

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Smethport became the McKean County seat in 1826, and grew and thrived as the principal village of Keating Township. But it wasn’t until 1853, that Smethport officially was incorporated as a Borough. Prior to this, Smethport was simply a settlement surrounding the county courthouse.

Smethport has a long and colorful entrepreneurial history. From its earliest days, creative innovation has been tied to the local environment. In 1822, John Applebee built a dam across Marvin Creek to create a millpond in the center of town and installed a water-powered sawmill. Thus began an entrepreneurial lumber industry with the naturally supplied power.

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Eventually the millpond at the center of Smethport became Hamlin Park and Hamlin Lake. Once filled with thousands of logs waiting processing at the local sawmill, the lake is now stocked with trout and offers opportunities for anglers.

During the 1870s through early 1900s Smethport was in an economic explosion that created some of the wealthiest entrepreneurs in the country.

Financier and Smethport benefactor Henry Hamlin was reported to be the wealthiest private banker in the United States during the 1890s.

As a result of vast wealth generated by various aspects of the lumber industry and financiers Smethport was blessed with numerous exquisite mansions. The Smethport Mansion District is one of the community’s paramount attractions, and is one of the best-maintained historic architectural areas in the region.

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Examples of Victorian style architecture include Greek Revival, Queen Anne, Stick and Italianate. Visitors can view these masterpieces through walking tours that are offered periodically during special events, or by taking a casual stroll with the aid of the Smethport Mansion District walking tour guide.

Smethport celebrates its ties to American Civil War. It was in 1861 that General Thomas Leiper Kane first mustered the McKean County Rifles and the famous and valiant Bucktail Regiment was born. Named for the whitetail deer tail placed in their hats, the Bucktails marched out of Smethport and into history.

Smethport is home to an active group of Bucktail re-enactors who each April recreate this special piece of United States history.

The first magnetic toys in the country were invented in Smethport in 1908. From out of those early roots would eventually come the famous 1955 hit toy “Wooly Willy.” This famous 20th century toy was created by Jim Herzog in Smethport in 1955, when he worked for the family-owned business Smethport Specialty Co. Wooly Willy is celebrated by the town in June during Summer Fest when any Willy-want-to-be can enter the Wooly Willy look-alike contest to stake their claim with Smethport’s most famous son. With more than 50 million being sold, the child’s toy is one of the largest promoters of Smethport, which features the town’s name on every toy.

Smethport was a center of bicycle hysteria during the 1890s. During

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September, Victorian Days Smethport relives part of its 1890s history by featuring its famous, “Wheel Around the Hub� 53-Mile Bicycle Race. Just as during the 1890s, the winners receive gold pocket watches as well as handsome cash prizes. Period costumed folk mingle with visitors as they wander through street art vendors and enjoy tea and live music on the courthouse green.

Smethport became electrified in 1921 through the vision and persistence of Smethport industrialist and inventor J. C. Backus. The Borough has owned its own electric company since that time. Since the earliest days Smethport operated and serviced its transmission lines and purchased electricity from outside providers. Uniquely Smethport is the only municipality in the entire 12 county Pennsylvania Wilds Region to own its electric company.

In 2004 Smethport was selected as Pennsylvania’s very first Route 6 Heritage Community. The borough is currently in the midst of a community-wide planning project supported by a DCNR grant to develop a Heritage Tourism Work Plan by identifying heritage tourist sites, resources and themes; by developing a way to enhance and refine these resources; and by creating a plan to sustain local heritage tourism while enhancing the local economy. Highlighted in the plan are an extensive community reforestation program, opportunities for business development including lodging, specialty stores and extended hours; cultural venues such as dances, concerts and plays; hospitality training; year-round event planning;

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streetscape enhancements; park improvements; signage and parking. The completed program is expected to take 10 years to plan and implement the various stages.

We study history to learn what worked and what didn’t work; what was successful and what wasn’t. What did we do right that we should do again and what mistakes did we make so as not to repeat them. Lumbering and the logging industry has played a vital role in Smethport’s economy for Smethport’s entire history. Ever since John Applebee created the Hamlin Millpond and installed the up and down, water-powered, sawmill Smethport has focused on its regional lumber heritage. During the 1880s and 1890s giant, steam powered saw mills were located in the borough sawing millions of board feet of lumber and driving our economy.

During the turn of the century 1900s wood chemical plants dotted McKean County and pumped money into the local economy. But these industries had a high price for the environment. The forests were denuded and toxic by products from the chemical industry polluted the soils. But it was this lumber industry that ignited out local economy and drove the economic engine that would create the Smethport Mansion District.

Race Around the Hub Every year in late September, a flash of color and the whoosh of wheels signal the start of the Great Smethport Bicycle Races, a 53mile chase through the forests of northern Pennsylvania that began in the 1890s.

Riders long ago traded their wool caps and knickerbockers for florescent helmets and spandex, but they’re still vying for the same coveted prize: a gold pocket watch and the bragging rights to one of the most legendary races around.

Whisked through the Victorian village of Smethport, Pa., propelled over tree-studded hillsides that once fueled factories and sawmills, and transported across miles of picturesque farmland to the historic Gallico Bridge, cyclists race to

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the finish through a ticker tape parade of fluttering leaves.

The memories are as inspiring as the views.

As early as 1892—a decade before the famous Tour de France—two enterprising businessmen dreamed up this race to capitalize on a craze that was taking America by storm. It was the Golden Age of Bicycling, and Dr. F. C. Pierce and his friend Martin Armstrong were among the sport’s most ardent vans.

Pierce, a Smethport dentist and a distributor for Rambler Bicycles, handed out catalogs to every patient who visited his second-story office with a toothache. As soon as their pain medication wore off, he would escort them downstairs to Young’s General Store where they could take a gander at the latest bicycles just in from Chicago. An avid cyclist himself, Pierce introduced the first high-wheeler to Smethport in 1883, and in 1895, pedaled his Rambler “Safety” to Des Moines, Iowa, in only ten days.

Matin Armstrong would not be outdone. The town’s jeweler, telegraph operator and baseball coach sold the competing Columbia brand from his Main Street storefront, which doubled as a sporting goods store. The highwheeled Columbia “Racer” had clinched the world speed record in 1886 at 22 miles an hour. Now the Columbia “Century” was selling like hotcakes, even at $200 apiece. Equipped with pneumatic tires for a smooth, safe ride, these bicycles were no longer the “boneshakers” of the past—they were the transportation of the future. By 1895 American factories were turning out 400,000 bicycles a year.

The two Smethport businessmen knew a bicycle race would capture the thrill of their favorite sport and fill the bustling lumber town with spectators. Pierce sketched a 7-mile loop around the hub of the city and Armstrong donated an engraved gold pocket watch for first prize. The Great Smethport Bicycle Races were off and running!

Word traveled fast. Wheelmen from as far away as Buffalo, New York, inspired by a little friendly competition and cheap fares on the Erie Railroad, hopped on board, bringing their bicycles with them.

“If you want to come as near to flying as we are likely to get in this generation, learn to ride a pneumatic bicycle,” wrote Philip G. Hubert Jr. in

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the June 1895 issue of Scribners Magazine.

Women were among the first to take hold of the handlebars. The bicycle liberated them from the confining Victorian clothing they were used to wearing and freed them to go virtually anywhere they wanted. Trousers, split skirts and lighter-weight corsets came into vogue, offering a more comfortable, long-distance ride.

“Skirts, while they have not hindered women from climbing to the topmost branches of higher education, may prove fatal in down-hill coasting,” wrote Marguerite Merington, in Scribners. “Skirts,” she cautioned, “must be fashioned as to minimize the danger of the flying wheel.”

At first newspapers condemned the pastime as unladylike. They railed against the speedsters, calling them “sorcerers.” But it was the Gay Nineties after all, and there was no turning back. Bicycling was just too much fun.

Families toured the countryside, enjoying the scenery with picnic baskets in tow. Couples coasted into cities for dinner, to visit the theater or enjoy the opera. Sports fans followed behind their favorite baseball teams, riding for miles in the hopes of watching them win. And young racers took off for far-flung locations to compete in an important race.

Challenged by rutted roads, poor drainage and ornery wagon drivers, the bicyclists were undaunted. Instead, more than 100,000 cyclists from across the United States banded together to form the League of American Wheelmen, a group that lobbied for better roads and directional signs, literally paving the way for the automobile. Smethport, like many communities, joined in with its own chapter. Ironically, the automobile would soon eclipse the bicycle as the favored form of travel. With the dawn of the horseless carriage, The Golden Age of Bicycling would come to a close.

The Great Smethport Bicycle Races continued its rolling spectacle on wheels through 1899. More than a century later, after a trunk of old race photos was rescued from the trash, the fabled event was brought back to life. Now, every September, the contest once again lures riders in pursuit of the elusive gold watch.

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Smethport Borough’s history, location and setting, and progressive community development efforts lend itself to be a leader in community revitalization and in capitalizing on efforts such as U.S. Route 6 Heritage Corridor, and the Pennsylvania Wilds initiatives. At to this McKean County’s self proclaimed, and much deserved “Trail Central” designation, the future of Smethport Borough is very bright.

Hamlin Lake Park Hamlin Lake Park began as millpond in the late 1800’s and since has been developed into the Borough’s crown jewel park. In 1975 the Hamlin Lake Authority was developed to transform the neglected shores of the former millpond into a scenic community and recreational center. The work was completed and a dedication of Hamlin Lake Park was held on August 18, 1978.

Source: Hamlin Lake Park Master Plan, 2009

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Analysis of Existing Trails and Trail Opportunities This analysis begins at the McKean County Complex, located in Keating Township on U.S. Route 6, southeast of the Borough of Smethport. The former Pittsburg, Shawmut & Northern Railroad grade crosses through the County property in an east west direction. A review of County assessment data indicates the Borough owns the former rail corridor property east of the County Complex and extending to U.S. Route 6.

Tax Parcel No.

Owner

15-006-304

Borough of Smethport

4.1

15-006-609

Borough of Smethport

4.4

15-006-610

Borough of Smethport

2.2

Total

Acreage

10.7

A fourth property, which is currently undeveloped and located between the former rail corridor, parcel no. 15-006-610 and Marvin Creek. This is parcel no. 15-005-301.2, contains 10.0 acres, and is privately owned. The acquisition of this parcel would help to preserve the streamside buffers along this stretch and ensure a green corridor between the former rail corridor and the stream.

The former rail corridor is in good condition, and lends itself well to being improved.

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Upon reaching Blacksmith Run the substructure of the former railroad bridge has been improved, by the Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club, with the addition of a timber deck. To accommodate other modes of transportation, such as walking and cycling, handrails should be constructed along the edges of the decking.

After crossing over Blacksmith Run, heading east, you reach Parcel Number 15-006-304 which is 4.1 acres in size.

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The parcel is of sufficient size and topography to allow it to accommodate a trail access point. It is located immediately north of the Marvin Creek Bridge, on the western side of U.S. Route 6.

Looking south, towards Willow Street, on Marvin Street, in the vicinity of the Smethport Motel, there are no sidewalks.

Directly across from the Borough property, on the eastern side of U.S. 6 is the western portion of Hamlin Lake Park.

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As noted earlier, the 2009 Hamlin Lake Master Plan provides recommendations for developing a trail from U.S. Route 6, along the northern edge of the lake, across the dam, to South Mechanics Street. A second trail is proposed south of the lake, extending from U.S. Route 6 through the park, to Center Street. The plan also includes recommendations for trail improvements to connect existing trails and walkways to provide a complete loop around the park. Reaching this vision will require successful negotiations with private property owners who surround the park and own the desired corridor.

Opportunities to access Hamlin Lake Park, from Main Street in the vicinity of Marvin Street are limited. The U.S. Route 6 Marvin Street Bridge crossing provides pedestrian sidewalks on each side, but lacks sidewalks along Marvin Street which lead to it.

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Hamlin Lake Park contains the following facility and activity areas: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Memorial Recreation Center Swimming Pool George Murray Baseball Field Chet Burk Little League Field Softball Field Four picnic shelters Footbridge crossing Mavin Creek to reach Hamlin Lake Island Batting Cages Field House, adjacent to George Murray Baseball Field Concession Stands, two Storage Building Soccer field Skatepark Basketball Courts, two half courts

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Business District Connector Equally important as connecting the trail system with Hamlin Lake Park is connecting the trails to Main Street in Smethport Borough. There are many businesses located along Main Street who can provide the goods and services desired by visitors to the trail. Further, those visiting Smethport for other reasons, such as a touring the Borough’s Historic Mansion District, may extend their stay in the Borough if they have easy access to a regional trail system. Therefore, wayfinding is equally important to developing the trail system.

During our field evaluation, we noticed there is an opportunity to connect Hamlin Lake Park with the Smethport Business District along Washington Street. Given the poor condition of the existing sidewalk along Washington Street, and the fact an extension to the park at this location would interfere with the private residence south of this location, we propose the sidewalk be relocated closer to the edge of the street, and that it be extended to Hamlin Lake Park.

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If the community desires to maintain the sidewalk in the existing location additional research needs to be conducted to determine if the deck associated with the private residence is encroaching into the right-of-way for Washington Street. If this is found to be true then the Borough would need to take action to resolve the encroachment before the sidewalk could be developed at this location.

The Washington Street access is the only public right-of-way providing access to the park on it’s northern side.

A second opportunity to pursue to connect Main Street to Hamlin Lake Park would be to acquire a trail easement through one of the properties along Water Street. Ross Porter, owner of 401 Water Street, indicated he would consider providing this easement if desired.

Heading north along the sidewalk one block one will reach West Main Street which is the heart of the Mansion Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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Sidewalks exist along the north and south sides of West Main Street.

Heading east will lead one to the heart of Smethport’s Main Street Business District and to the McKean County Courthouse located on Main Street, between Church and State Streets.

When considering pedestrian routes through main street communities and their business districts it is important to evaluate opportunities, or lack thereof, of safe and desirable walking opportunities.

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Main Street, from Marvin Street to Mechanics Street has been developed with pedestrians in mind. Sidewalks are present on each side of Main Street.

Hamlin Lake Park to Smethport School Complex Two opportunities exist to connect Hamlin Lake Park with the School Complex.

One opportunity is present from the proposed trail through Hamlin Lake Park on the southside of the lake. This trail is proposed to end at West Willow Street, near Center Street. To make this connection a crosswalk would be required across West Willow Street to reach the existing sidewalk along the south side of the street. This sidewalk can be utilized to School Street. At School Street one needs to head south, on School Street, to reach the School Complex. There are currently no sidewalks along school Street.

If the community desires to make this connection then we recommend a sidewalk be established along School Street.

The second opportunity to connect to Hamlin Lake Park exists between the trail being proposed on the northern side of the lake which is proposed to extend across the dam and end at South Mechanic Street.

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As South Mechanic Street heads south, a bridge crosses over Marvin Creek.

There is an existing sidewalk on the east side of South Mechanic Street and the South Mechanic Street Bridge. Therefore, the only improvement required would be a crosswalk over South Mechanic Street.

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The existing sidewalk on the Marvin Creek Bridge ends at a crosswalk over Willow Street. From Willow Street to the School Complex, located three and one half blocks to the south, there is a sidewalk along the eastern side of South Mechanic Street.

Smethport Elementary School, and the Smethport Area Junior and Senior High Schools are located southeast of Hamlin Lake Park, approximately three blocks south on Mechanics Street.

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The proximity of these facilities lend themselves well to developing and enhancing Safe Routes to Schools to promote walking from Borough neighborhoods to the schools.

The school complex also contains a natural trail that winds throughout the school district property.

Hamlin Lake Park to McKean County Fairgrounds The Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club has secured permission from the property owners along the south bank of Marvin Creek, between Hamlin Lake Park, across Potato Creek, to their existing snowmobile trail which leads to the McKean County Fairgrounds. This route requires a proposed bridge over Mavin Creek, and a second bridge over Potato Creek.

The McKean County Greenway and Trails Plan recommends this proposed trail be extended from the Fairgrounds to Port Allegheny following the former Stage Coach Route. This route crosses through State Game Lands No. 51 in Liberty Township. This corridor through the State Game Lands is not currently identified by the Game Commission as a Designated Route for pedestrian, bicycle, and equestrian travel. Given the existing Equestrian trails located in and around Smethport Borough, and the desire to extend those trails, we recommend the Pennsylvania Equine Council be contacted to assist the local community in achieving Designated Use status for this corridor as it extends through the State Game Lands.

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McKean County Complex Background In September, 1883, a petition was signed by a majority of the poor masters was presented to the court asking for an election on the question of establishing a poor farm. This was granted, and in February, 1884, 1,611 votes were cast in favor of and 885 against such establishment. In March, 1884, an issue of bonds for $50,000 was authorized; in April the 345 acre Wilcox farm was purchased by the McKean County Poor District from Alonzo Wilcox, Deed Book Volume 29 pages 139, for $15,515. The property contains 345 acres.

In May of 1884 the style of the Allegheny county poor buildings was adopted, and S.A. Bishop appointed architect. In July contracts for the buildings were sold to Davitt, O’Brian & Hart for $24,813.18. In May 1885 D.H. Burnham was appointed superintendent. In July of 1885 the building was ready to receive poor persons.

Source: History of the Counties of McKean, Elk, and Forest, Pennsylvania, J.H. Beers & Co. Publishers, 1890

Poorhouses were tax-supported residential institutions to which people were required to go if they could not support themselves. They were started as a method of providing a less expensive (to the taxpayers) alternative to what we would now days call “welfare” - what was called “outdoor relief” in those days. People requested help from the community Overseer of the Poor ( sometimes also called a Poor Master) - an elected town official. If the need was great or likely to be long-term, they were sent to the poorhouse instead of being given relief while they continued to live independently. Sometimes they were sent there even if they had not requested help from the Overseer of the Poor. That was usually done when they were found guilty of begging in public, etc.

Source: www.poorhousestory.com

In 1830 the Pennsylvania General Assembly enacted legislation allowing Counties to establish alms homes or poor farms. One by one, counties across the state began to develop a system to care for community members within their municipal borders. It was the beginning of social welfare throughout the state.

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The Counties provided residence for the indigent members of the community, and the land provided food for those who called it home. It was a picture of what we now refer to as sustainable agriculture. The Home’s buildings, farmland, and residents were typically as recognizable as the Counties’ Courthouses.

Agriculture was generally an integral part of the operation of the homes.

The farmland surrounding the facilities were used to provide food for patients residing in the homes. Although the intent of the home was to house individuals who did not have money to care for themselves, the role patients often played in the agricultural support system of the facilities was significant. Able-bodied residents worked on the farm cultivating crops, raising livestock, and producing other farm products. The community of patients developed around their need for support and agriculture developed to support them. This relationship of an alms home supported by agriculture, in conjunction with the 1830 legislation referring to the establishment of poor farms led area residents to refer to the homes as “poor farms.” In 1937, County Institution District Law abolished the office of county poor director and conveyed its powers and duties to the County Commissioners.

Since its early beginning as the County Poor Farm, a portion of property, between Marvin Creek and U.S. Route 6, has continued to be developed by McKean County to house many of the County Offices.

Big Rock sits on the hilltop behind Sena-Kean Manor nursing facility west of Smethport Borough. The site is full of various rock formations, small caves, countless crevices, and forest solitude. It is a favorite destination for outings by several generations of Smethport folks, young hikers, and enthusiastic explorers. Big Rock is set into the hillside slopes. It juts high above the forest tree-tops, and offers a wonderful view of the Marvin Creek valley and US Route 6 below. Osprey and Eagles are often visible from the cliff of the main rock, which towers 60 feet high, if not more.

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Location The McKean County Complex is located immediately southwest of Smethport Borough, in Keating Township, along U.S. Route 6 (The Grand Army of the Republic Highway). In this area U.S. Route 6 is designated as PA Bicycle Route Y. Acreage The property is 345 acres in size.

Surrounding Land Use The property north of the site is undeveloped and forested, immediately northeast of the site is agricultural, property to the southeast is residential, and property to the west is undeveloped and forested.

Topographic Features The site contains a variety of topography. The southern portion of the property, between U.S. Route 6 and Marvin Creek is gently sloping less than 15%, from U.S. Route 6, approximate elevation of 1510, towards the creek, approximate elevation of 1940. The creek flows across the property from west to east and contains a floodplain zone that averages 700 feet in width.

The portion of the property north of Marvin Creek slopes up to the north for a distance of approximately 800 feet across fields that are being tilled for agricultural use. This area a more steeply sloped, but generally still less than 15%. This area is bisected east to west by two benches in the hillside that were graded for rail lines that once crossed the property. The lower bench was that of Pittsburg, Shawmut, & Northern Railroad while the northern corridor was that of the Bradford, Bordell, and Kinzua Railroad Company. The last train of the Pittsburg, Shawmut & Northern Railroad ran on April 1, 1947.

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At the northern edge of the agricultural fields the property begins to slope more dramatically, average slope is greater than 25%. This slope continues to the ridge of the hill, which is located just beyond the northern boundary of the property. This area contains an even aged timber stand that appears to be fairly young based on the average diameter of the trees it contains.

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Existing Buildings and Structures The property contains buildings associated with providing various county functions. All of the buildings are located on the southern portion of the property, between Marvin Creek and U.S. Route 6. Their architectural character and style range from the original poor farm buildings of 1884 to the more recently constructed McKean County Jail and Emergency Management / 911 facility. Buildings of the property include (listed from west to east): • McKean County Jail • Sena Kean Manor: A comprehensive care facility that provides care and services to older adults in McKean and surrounding counties.

• McKean Poor Farm Building Complex, including: - Female Residence housing offices of the Bowman Health Center - Kitchen / Dining Hall: Housing offices of the County Office of Aging - Poor Farm Superintendent’s Residence: Housing the offices of the Penn State Cooperative Extension - Poor Farm Male Residence: Housing the county’s Planning Commission, Conservation District, and Economic Development offices - Poor Farm Cemetery - located near the center of the property, behind the Poor Farm buildings, and across Marvin Creek. The cemetery is approximately 150’ x 200’ in size • McKean County Children and Youth Services • McKean County Emergency Management Administration • Barn A: Leased to farmer • Barn B: Leased to farmer • Barn C: utilized by the County Conservation District There is one bridge that crosses over Marvin Creek, just east of the original Poor Farm building complex. The date of this bridge is unknown. It is approximately 60 feet in length. The deck is in poor condition, as it has been patched with 2” x 8” planks in places.

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A portion of the property is leased in an adjacent land owner for agricultural purposes. The lease agreement is an annual agreement allowing the County Commissioners to consider its renewal in the spring of each year.

The lease provides the lessee with the right to farm seventy-four acres and utilize a barn for farm equipment and hay storage. For this privilege the lessee pays the lessor an annual rent of $1,100, and a monthly electric fee of six dollars.

A review of the fields and pastures, as described by the lessee, and marked with fences on the property, indicates the following portions of the property are being utilized by the lessee, these areas are shown on the Site Analysis: • Field 1: 37.17 acres, includes portions of Marvin Creek in acreage.

This field is located in the southwest portion of the property, between Marvin Creek and behind the County Jail and Sena Kean Manor.

• Field 2: 13.92 acres, includes portions of Marvin Creek in acreage.

This field is located in the southeast portion of the property, between Marvin Creek and behind Barns B and C. • Field 3: 55.70 acres. This field is located north of Marvin Creek, above the former Pittsburg, Shawmut, & Northern Railroad corridor. The Poor Farm cemetery is located within this field.

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• Field 4: 59.86 acres. This field is located north of Marvin Creek and Field 3.

Based on this analysis it appears the lessee is utilizing 166.63 acres of the County property for agricultural production.

During our interview with the lessee, we learned there are approximately six to eight unplugged oil wells located on the property. One was located and is shown on the Site Analysis. The lessee indicated that one or two wells exist above the upper rail corridor, and there are about six wells located between the two rail corridors on the eastern portion of the

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property. In some instances the lessee has marked the locations of these wells. These well openings present a hazard and should be plugged immediately.

Poor Farm Cemetery The Poor Farm Cemetery is located near the center of the property, behind the Poor Farm buildings, and across Marvin Creek. The cemetery is approximately 150’ x 200’ in size.

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The cemetery contains 215 plots. Records obtained from the McKean County Historical Society list 60 recorded burials in the cemetery.

Historical Society staff noted the list was not comprehensive, and that the cemetery burial records are maintained in the current Sena Kean Manor.

The first burial recorded on the records provided by the Historical Society was in 1936. According to Historical Society staff the last burial in this cemetery occurred in the early to mid 1990’s.

It is said Ralph Crossmire, hung in the McKean County Jail for murder in 1893, is buried in an unmarked grave in this cemetery. Local lore has it that the ghost of Crossmire, continues to this day, to haunt the Old MeKean County Jail and the McKean County Courthouse.

Historic Features A review of the National Register of Historic Places, and the Pennsylvania History and Museum Commission’s CRGIS database did not indicate resources of historic significance on the property. That being said a field review of the original McKean County Poor Farm buildings indicates the buildings do contain features of historic significance that are National Register Eligible. A review of the buildings was conducted by Jason Roth, a registered architect specializing in historic structures.

The McKean County Office complex features seven buildings associated with the historic County Poor Farm, including four brick buildings built as residences and three wooden barns.

Source: www.smethporthistory.org

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All have been maintained in continuous use by the County or sublessors.

The Poor Farm no longer operates as it once did, and the residential structures have all been converted to office uses.

Being over 100 years old, these buildings were of course not built with modern accessibility standards in mind; as a result, the upper stories are inaccessible, while the first floors have generally been made accessible through the construction of ramps.

This has resulted in buildings that are utilized at far less than their full capacity, as well as maintenance issues that develop from empty upper stories, including water infiltration and vermin. As a result, these buildings represent disproportionately expensive office space for the County, leading to questions about how best to proceed. Options include demolition and replacement, retrofitting, and sale to a private party that could better utilize the buildings. One factor that affects these options is the historic value of the structures.

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The four brick buildings are here referred to by their historic designations. • The Superintendent’s Residence is a traditional 19th century house now used by the Penn State Cooperative Extension

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• The Male and Female Residences were built as dormitories with several large rooms opening off of a central hall on the upper floors (the lower floors have been subdivided for offices).

The Male Residence houses County Planning and Development offices on the first floor, and is undergoing renovations upstairs to accept the County Aging offices.

The Female Residence houses County Health offices on the first floor, with remnants of older medical offices in some upstairs rooms.

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• The County Aging offices will move from another building in the complex which was built to serve as a Kitchen/Dining Hall. This building retains a large, institutional kitchen, still semi-intact, on the first floor, while the upper story has been subdivided into offices – soon to be vacated – for the County Aging department.

• The three barns are simply designated by letter herein for distinction. One is used by the Penn State Extension while the other two are leased to the farmer as noted earlier.

Historic Value The relevant benchmark for the historic value for these structures is eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. The practical effect of National Register eligibility is largely identical to actual placement on the National Register of Historic Places: it means that before a structure may be demolished or adversely altered using Federal funds, a consultation process must take place to determine if viable alternatives exist and/or to identify mitigation measures for any unavoidable adverse effects. At the state level, there is a parallel process pertaining to projects using State funds.

The four brick buildings are almost certainly National Register eligible structures. In addition to their place in local history, they are all wellmaintained examples of Victorian Gothic architecture, with distinctive brickwork and handsome detailing.

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Furthermore, their preservation as a cluster of related buildings from an era when provision of social services by local governments was expanding make them a cohesive part of a significant historical narrative.

The original porches and connecting structures between the buildings are long gone, but these wooden appendages were secondary to the historic character of the structures themselves. Historic photographs document their general layout, and any future construction among these buildings should be designed with them as a guide, if not something to be recreated in detail.

The barns’ significance is less certain. While they are part of the historic Poor Farm narrative, it is not clear that all three are necessary to maintaining the integrity of the complex, i.e., its ability to convey its significance. Barns A and B are unremarkable examples of the Pennsylvania bank barn, in fair but not especially good condition. Precise dating is difficult, but it appears that Barn B was built in the 1930s, which makes it less integral to the Poor Farm narrative. Barn A has attractive cupolas, but is otherwise unremarkable.

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Barn A

Barn B

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Barn C is the only architecturally distinctive one of the group; it appears to be an example of either of two unusual Pennsylvania barn types, as codified

by Robert F. Ensminger in his book The Pennsylvania Barn: Its Origin, Evolution, and Distribution in North America. It could be categorized as a modified example of either a “Gable-Ramp Standard Barn” or as a “FrontShed (Three-Gable) Barn.” [Image 09] Both of these types are rare and distinctive, and would likely justify National Register eligibility for Barn C.

Barn C In short, publicly-funded demolition would be difficult for any of the structures save perhaps Barn A, which is neither distinctive nor especially proximate to the Poor Farm complex.

Building Conditions Based on a cursory examination of the four brick buildings as well as reported information from County employees, these core structures are all in sound, if imperfect, condition. There have been reports of foundation issues with the Kitchen/Dining building, but there is no apparent evidence of this, suggesting that any actual issues may be relatively minor and readily managed if addressed in the near future. Beyond that, there are signs of roof leakage in the Female Residence and water issues in the basement of the Male Residence, neither of which appears to indicate serious structural concerns.

The barns, as wooden structures, are in far less sound condition. Barn A is in quite poor condition, with extensive rotten and missing siding; intensive intervention will be necessary to extend its useful life much beyond the next decade.

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Barn A: Signs of Decay The other barns have been neglected, but do not bear signs of impending failure. Timely painting together with spot replacement of rotten boards and new roofing should extend their useful lives by decades.

Accessibility Currently, the upper stories of two buildings are occupied, with the Aging Office preparing to relocate from one upper story to another. The upper story of the Women’s Residence has remained unoccupied since it functioned as medical offices decades ago, while the upper story of the Men’s Residence is being renovated for the Aging Office.

While the Americans with Disabilities Act certainly requires full accessibility for all but the smallest of new public buildings, it is much more accommodating of existing structures, especially historic ones.

Portions of the Act quoted in the Appendix indicate the outlines of permissible deviation from full accessibility. In brief, alterations of existing buildings only require creation of accessible circulation routes insofar as the circulation routes themselves are being modified. Furthermore, if the cost of making a primary function area accessible exceeds 20% of the cost of alterations, it is not required to be made accessible.

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With this in mind, the County should consider the upper stories of all four buildings as viable office space, offering first floor meeting space for handicapped visitors to the upper floor uses.

Life/Safety The other limiting factor in the reuse of the upper stories of historic structures is often life/safety concerns. Means of egress requirements as well as size limitations imposed by construction types may make older buildings’ upper stories prohibitively expensive to reuse.

However, these concerns are minimal for the brick structures. All include two sets of steps to the upper story, maintaining two means of egress from all occupied spaces. While these stairways may not have been built to modern specifications, they are adequately sized and proportioned to be safe and acceptable. As such, the highest hurdle for occupancy of the buildings has been cleared prior to any new construction by the County.

Beyond the stairways, most of the buildings are not currently configured to meet modern life/safety standards in such areas as door sizes, hardware, and swing directions, emergency lighting, and egress signage. However, all of these issues are easily addressed during renovations, and represent neither cost nor practical barriers to reuse.

Overview of Poor Farm Buildings

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Existing Vehicular, Pedestrian, and Bicycle Circulation The site is located adjacent to, and all access to the site is from, U.S. Route 6. There are vehicular access points located at the County Jail, Sena Kean Manor, the Poor Farm Buildings, and the Emergency Management Administration building. In internal vehicular circulation exists between the Emergency Management Administration, CYS, and Poor Farm Buildings. There is no internal vehicular circulation to Sena Kean Manor or the McKean County Jail. There is an unimproved road west of the Emergency Management Administration building that leads to the bridge which crosses Marvin Creek. This unimproved road continues through the fields and pastures on the northern side of Marvin Creek.

Existing pedestrian circulation is limited to sidewalks which lead from some parking areas to buildings which are immediately adjacent. There are no pedestrian routes through the complex to connect the various buildings with each other.

As noted earlier, U.S. Route 6 is designated as PA Bicycle Route Y. However, there appears to not be any accommodations for bicycles (racks or lockers) at any of the buildings in the Complex.

Last, it is important to note the former Pittsburg, Shawmut, & Northern corridor which crosses the property. East of the site the corridor continues onto land owned by Smethport Borough. This property is accessed on the western side of U.S. Route 6 just south of its intersection with West Water Street.

As described earlier, these properties provide a direct access to Hamlin Lake Park, located across U.S. Route 6. The properties are vacant and undeveloped. A bridge crossing over Marvin Creek remains from the former railroad. The bridge abutments appear to be structurally sound as does the supporting steel structure. The timber deck is in need of replacement and a pedestrian barrier should be constructed if it is to be used for the trail crossing over Marvin Creek.

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Parking Analysis As part of the inventory and analysis vehicular parking spaces were analyzed to determine the numbers of spaces that exist, and to determine if those spaces meet the current parking needs required by the activities that occur on the property.

Public and study committee input indicated it appears the number of parking spaces east of the Poor Farm Buildings, serving Sena Kean Manor, and the McKean County Jail are sufficient, while those spaces east of Sena Kean Manor are not sufficient to serve the buildings on the central and western portion of the properties. Therefore, the parking inventory and analysis is presented accordingly.

The following is a summary of the parking spaces that exist on the property: Area E911 and Children and Youth Services Poor Farm Male Residence - County Planning, Economic Development, and Conservation District

Standard Accessible Total Spaces Spaces Spaces 54 3 57 13 2 15

Poor Farm Superintendent’s Residence - PSU Cooperative Extension

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Shared with above

Poor Farm Kitchen / Dinning Hall - County Office of Aging

3

Poor Farm Female Residence Hall - County Health Offices Barn A - behind Poor Farm Complex Barn B - behind E911 and CYS Building Barn C - Recycling Center Subtotal McKean County Jail Sena McKean Manor Subtotal Total

10

Shared with above

3

Shared 10 with above 3 0 3 Overflow parking area 3 0 3 86 5 91 50 2 52 105 5 110 155 7 162 241 12 253

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The project study committee indicated the current spaces serving the Poor Farm, the E911, and CYS buildings barely meet the employee and daily visitors needs. In addition, the lack of parking in this area prohibits the scheduling of seminars, conferences, or public meetings during normal business hours. The Conservation District noted they cannot hold educational sessions during the day due to lack of parking.

After some discussion, it was determined that approximately 40 additional parking spaces, for a total of 140 spaces, are needed to serve needs of the offices located in the the Poor Farm, the E911, and CYS buildings.

The 52 spaces provided at the McKean County Jail, and the 162 spaces provided at Sena Kean Manor are sufficient to meet the needs of the activities and their respective buildings.

Environmental Issues A review of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection EMap indicates there are no known environmental issues associated with the site.

That said, there are the issues associated with the former wells located in the property as noted earlier.

Soil Types The United States Geologic Survey maintains the United States Department of Agriculture’s Soil Conservation Service database which contains data on soil properties and gives an indications of whether they present constraints or opportunities for various types of land use and development.

The McKean County Complex contains the following soils: • Albrights silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes, Symbol: AbB Slopes are 3 to 8 percent. This component is on mountain slopes.

The parent material consists of acid fine-loamy colluvium derived from red sandstone and shale. Depth to a root restrictive layer, fragipan, is 18 to 32 inches. The natural drainage class is moderately well drained. Water movement in the most restrictive layer is moderately high. Available water to a depth of 60 inches is

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low. Shrink-swell potential is low. This soil is not flooded. It is not ponded. A seasonal zone of water saturation is at 19 inches during January, February, March, November, December. Organic matter content in the surface horizon is about 2 percent. Nonirrigated land capability classification is 2e. This soil does not meet hydric criteria. • Albrights silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes, Symbol: AbC The Albrights component makes up 85 percent of the map unit.

Slopes are 8 to 15 percent. This component is on mountain slopes.

The parent material consists of residuum weathered from acid, red siltstone, sandstone, and shale. Depth to a root restrictive layer, fragipan, is 18 to 32 inches. The natural drainage class is moderately well drained. Water movement in the most restrictive layer is moderately high. Available water to a depth of 60 inches is low. Shrink-swell potential is low. This soil is not flooded. It is not ponded. A seasonal zone of water saturation is at 19 inches during January, February, March, November, December. Organic matter content in the surface horizon is about 2 percent. Nonirrigated land capability classification is 3e. This soil does not meet hydric criteria. • Albrights silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes, very stony, Symbol: AdC The Albrights component makes up 85 percent of the map unit.

Slopes are 8 to 15 percent. This component is on mountain slopes.

The parent material consists of acid fine-loamy colluvium derived from red sandstone and shale. Depth to a root restrictive layer is greater than 60 inches. The natural drainage class is moderately well drained. Water movement in the most restrictive layer is moderately high. Available water to a depth of 60 inches is low. Shrinkswell potential is low. This soil is not flooded. It is not ponded. A seasonal zone of water saturation is at 19 inches during January, February, March, November, December. Organic matter content in the surface horizon is about 2 percent. Nonirrigated land capability classification is 6s. This soil does not meet hydric criteria.

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• Atkins silt loam, Symbol: At The Atkins component makes up 85 percent of the map unit. Slopes are 0 to 3 percent. This component is on flood plains. The parent material consists of fine-loamy alluvium derived from sedimentary rock. Depth to a root restrictive layer, bedrock, lithic, is 60 to 99 inches. The natural drainage class is poorly drained. Water movement in the most restrictive layer is moderately low. Available water to a depth of 60 inches is high. Shrink-swell potential is low.

This soil is frequently flooded. It is not ponded. A seasonal zone of water saturation is at 6 inches during January, February, March, April, May, June, November, December. Organic matter content in the surface horizon is about 3 percent. Nonirrigated land capability classification is 3w. This soil meets hydric criteria. • Leck Kill channery silt loam, 15 to 25 percent slopes, Symbol: LeD The Leck Kill component makes up 85 percent of the map unit.

Slopes are 15 to 25 percent. This component is on hills. The parent material consists of residuum weathered from sandstone and shale.

Depth to a root restrictive layer, bedrock, paralithic, is 40 to 60 inches. The natural drainage class is well drained. Water movement in the most restrictive layer is moderately high. Available water to a depth of 60 inches is low. Shrink-swell potential is low. This soil is not flooded. It is not ponded. There is no zone of water saturation within a depth of 72 inches. Organic matter content in the surface horizon is about 2 percent. Nonirrigated land capability classification is 4e. This soil does not meet hydric criteria. • Leck Kill channery silt loam, 25 to 50 percent slopes, Symbol: LeF The Leck Kill component makes up 80 percent of the map unit.

Slopes are 25 to 60 percent. This component is on mountains. The parent material consists of reddish residuum derived from sedimentary rock. Depth to a root restrictive layer, bedrock, paralithic, is 40 to 60 inches. The natural drainage class is well drained. Water movement in the most restrictive layer is moderately high. Available water to a depth of 60 inches is low. Shrinkswell potential is low. This soil is not flooded. It is not ponded.

There is no zone of water saturation within a depth of 72 inches.

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Organic matter content in the surface horizon is about 2 percent.

Nonirrigated land capability classification is 7e. This soil does not meet hydric criteria. • Philo silt loam, Symbol: Ph The Philo component makes up 75 percent of the map unit. The slope is 0 to 3 percent. The parent material consists of alluvium derived from sedimentary rock. The depth to a root restrictive layer is greater than 60 inches to bedrock. The natural drainage class is moderately well drained. The most restrictive water movement is moderately slow. To a depth of 60 inches, available water capacity is moderate. Shrink swell potential is low. This soil is occasionally flooded and is not ponded. The average depth to the seasonal zone of water saturation is at 18 inches during January, February, March, April, December. It is in nonirrigated land capability class 2w. This soil does not meet hydric criteria.

Source: http://soildatamart.nrcs.usda.gov/

Symbol AbB AbC

AdC

At LeD

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Description

Hydric

Prime Ag / Important Farmland

Albrights silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes Albrights silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes Albrights silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes Atkins silt loam Leck Kill channery silt loam, 15 to 25 percent

No

Prime Farmland

No

Important Farmland

No

Important Farmland

Yes No

Important Farmland No

LeF

Leck Kill channery silt loam, 25 to 50 percent

No

No

Ph

Philo silt loam

No

Prime Farmland

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The areas of the property associated with Prime Farmland have either been previously developed, beginning with the County Poor Farm, or are located within the riparian zone of Marvin Creek and are frequently inundated by flooding, with the exception of the area being farmed in association with the McKean County Jail’s work release program.

The areas being leased for farming contain Albright Silt Loams which are classified as Important Farmlands.

Sym

Small Commercial

AbB

Very Limited

AbC

Very Limited

AdC

Very Limited

At

Very Limited

LeD

Very Limited

LeF

Ph

Pathways and Trails

Camps, Suitability for Picnic Areas, Septic Fields and Playgrounds

Forest Productivity Site Index

Corn Yield

Comments

Limitations due to depths to saturated zone Limitations due to depths to saturated zone Limitations due to depths to saturated zone Limitations due to depths to saturated zone Limitations due to depths to saturated zone

Somewhat Limited Somewhat Limited Somewhat Limited Somewhat Limited Somewhat Limited

Somewhat Limited Somewhat Limited Somewhat Limited Very Limited

Very Limited

75

105

Very Limited

75

100

Very Limited

75

100

Very Limited

105

100

Very Limited

Very Limited

68

105

Very Limited

Somewhat Limited

Very Limited

Very Limited

68

100

Limitations due to depths to saturated zone

Very Limited

Somewhat Limited

Somewhat Limited

Very Limited

102

100

Limitations due to depths to saturated zone

Forest Productivity Soil Site Index: In practice, the site index (SI = average height of dominant trees in a stand at a certain reference age, e.g., 50 yr) is a local measure of site quality. This index is presumed to integrate the effects of climate, topography and soil. Unfortunately, SI also varies with stand history, stocking level, and species composition.

Many of the soils present on the site reflect limiting development qualities.

Therefore, additional precautions should be taken to design and provide adequate drainage beneath proposed facilities and activity areas.

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Hydrology Marvin Creek flows eastward through the property. Marvin Creek and its associated tributaries is classified in Pennsylvania Code, Chapter 93, as a cold water fishery. Marvin Creek is a trout stocked fishery. On the County’s property there are approximately eight unnamed tributaries that flow into Marvin Creek.

Floodplain The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) designated one hundred year floodplain is identified on the Site Analysis. This area is located along Marvin Creek, and ranges in width from 350 feet in width to over 1100 feet in width. Currently there are no buildings located in the floodplain.

Wetlands A review of the National Wetland Inventory Mapping for the property indicates that wetlands have been identified along Marvin Creek. The wetlands shown on the map include approximately four acres of the site.

Before any additional development occurs on the property we recommend a wetland delineation and jurisdictional determination be completed.

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Riparian Areas (Streamside Buffers) The existing streamside buffers along Marvin Creek are limited to those areas which cannot be mowed or tilled. In many located the land up to the bank of the stream is mowed or tilled up to the bank of the stream.

Streamside buffers are important as they protect water quality and stabilize stream banks. Vegetative areas along streams are important as they: • Slow flood waters and reduce the volume of water through root absorption.

• Improve water quality by filtering runoff and promoting sediment deposition.

• Allow water storage in plant roots and provide pathways to groundwater layers.

• Provide canopy cover, which shades and cools streams, thus improving habitat conditions for in-stream organisms, while providing relief from extreme heat for terrestrial animals.

• Provide habitat for birds and small mammals while acting as corridors to similar habitat, providing food, shelter, and nesting sites.

• Provide opportunities for recreation such as fishing, hiking, kayaking and canoeing, bird and wildlife watching, picnicking, and camping.

The portion of Marvin Creek that extends through the property is approximately 4,200 feet in length. Of that the first 800 feet flowing into the property from the west have a forested buffer that extends well beyond the typical minimum distances recommended. The remaining length of the stream, through the property, have streamside buffers that range from o’ to 150’ in width.

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Recommended Streamside Buffer Width 0’

50’

100’

150’

200’

250’

300’

Bank Stabilization Fisheries Habitat Nutrient Removal Sediment Control Flood Control Wildlife Habitat The McKean County Conservation District in conjunction with the McKean County Juvenile Boondocs Program have completed several streambank stabilization and fish habitat enhancement projects along Marvin Creek by constructing log vane deflectors, stone vane deflectors, and fish habitat cover improvements. The Boondocs Program is a unique conservation and education project that uses the construction of trout stream improvement devices as a means of providing treatment to delinquent and dependent children.

Further, a wetland mitigation project has been completed on the western portion of the property to satisfy Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection permitting requirements for the of the Gallico Bridge replacement.

Zoning There is no zoning in Keating Township.

Deed Restrictions and Easements A review of the Deed for the purchase of the property in 1884 does not list any deed restrictions. It does recognize the Bradford, Bordell, and Smethport Railroad right-of-way and limits the purchase to preserve this right-of-way for railroad purposes as contracted with the railroad company.

Utilities The Underground Line / Facilities Damage Protection Act of 1996; OSHA Standard 1926.651; the Federal Pipeline Safety Act of 1968, as amended, and the National Electric Safety Code, require anyone who engages in demolition or excavation to provide public notice. In Pennsylvania PA Act

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287, as amended by Act 187 of 1996, requires “notice in the design or planning phase of every work operation that involves the movement of earth with powered equipment.

In Pennsylvania the PA One Call System, Inc., has been established as a non-profit organization to facilitate requests to utility providers. PA One Call System, Inc. was contacted during the inventory and analysis phase to determine if and what utilities are in the vicinity of the park site.

PA One Call System, Inc. responded through their automated response service, Serial No. 20100261048-00, as noted in the following table. It is important to note that public sewer, water, and electric service is provided to the McKean County Complex site.

PA One Call Responses - Serial No. 20100261048-000 Utility Company Address Response Comcast

75 Ideal Farm Road Kane, PA 16735

Clear

UGI Central Penn Gas, Inc.

225 Morgantown Road Reading, PA 19611

Clear

Zito Media LP

611 Vader Hill Road Coudersport, PA 16915

Clear

Verizon Pennsylvania Inc.

201 Stanwix Street, 4th Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Clear

Keating Township

P.O. Box 103 East Smethport, PA 16730

Sanitary sewer parallel to Marvin Creek

National Fuel Supply

1100 State Street Erie, PA 16501

Potential conflict, plans provided to consultant

Northern Pipeline Company

P.O. Box 279 Allegany, NY 14706

First Energy Corporation

5404 Evans Road Erie, PA 16509

Smethport Borough Smethport Borough Authority

201 West Main Street P.O. Box 427 Smethport, PA 16749

Clear No Response Provides public water and electric service to the site

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In addition to the current utility providers, the Borough of Smethport plans to implement a community-wide woody-biomass powered combined heat and power (CHP) system.

Inspiration for the project resulted from a trip to Austria, said Smethport Mayor Ross Porter. In 2008 a delegation of educators and state and federal officials traveled to Austria to investigate renewable energy opportunities.

As part of the trip, the delegation visited the Austrian town of GĂźssing, which is a model green energy community that generates the majority of its own energy and serves as a research hub in Europe for a variety of renewable energy projects.

Due to Smethport’s abundant woody biomass resources, and the fact that the city owns its own electrical utility, the community was identified as one uniquely positioned to serve as a demonstration project for a woodybiomass powered CHP system. In addition, the community has a need to replace its potable water distribution system. The borough intends to install the distribution lines for the district heating system in the same trench as the new water distribution system, which will allow the community to reduce construction costs.

The project proposes to use low-value and waste forestry products.

The project will utilize waste wood and tree species that lack value and block the growth of more valuable hardwood trees. The project is being completed in conjunction with sustainability studies being conducted by Pennsylvania State University. One concept of the project is localization.

The project will utilize locally sourced feedstocks and lead to local economic development.

Source: www.biomassmagazine.com

Concurrent with this master planning process, a feasibility study is being conducted for the proposed CHP system. The McKean County Complex is one of several sites being considered for the proposed plant. The plant in GĂźssing, Austria is approximately the size of one football field. During the course of this study it was determined that the County Complex site is not a feasible location for the CHP System.

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County Commissioners Meeting On April 6, 2009, a meeting was held with the McKean County Commissioners to discuss the project, establish their goals and objectives for the property, and receive general input as to their thoughts related to the County Complex property. In addition to the Commissioners representatives from the County Economic Development, County Planning, and County Conservation District offices were present.

The Commissioners indicated a comprehensive planning effort is required that incorporates the current woody biomass efforts, the County’s need for a multi-purpose indoor meeting room, desire to consider Marcellus shale potential of site to generate money, and concern with potential to adaptively re-use the existing Poor Farm buildings. It was suggested the potential to generate electricity for the complex with wind power be considered.

The Commissioners noted the current lease for a portion of the property to an adjacent farmer is about to expire, and that recommendations for future leases should be proposed.

A representative of the Conservation District indicated the District would like to continue streambank restoration projects along Marvin Creek, and see the land used for agricultural demonstration projects.

Study Committee Meeting One A study committee meeting was held on June 4, 2009. The purpose of this meeting was to review the site inventory and analysis, to discuss the goals and vision for the County Complex, and to share thoughts and ideas with respect to current and future uses, buildings, and activities that might occur on the property. The following is a summary of the input received during this meeting.

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Property between U.S. Route 6 and Marvin Creek should continue to meet the current and future needs for county office space and facilities. The property should continue to include an agricultural component, given the presence of prime agricultural soils, and loss of farmland in other areas of the County. The County is considering the property for the Woody Biomass Demonstration project and the potential of leasing acreage for natural resource extraction, including Marcellus shale, on the property to generate revenue for the County.

Committee members expressed interest in maintaining the original poor farm buildings on the property. Attendees indicated they prefer the buildings be adaptively re-used in lieu of demolishing them.

The following represents the future uses the committee would like to consider for the property: 1. Farmers Market / Fair Trade Center 2. Food Matrix Kitchen and Sales 3. Community supported agricultural production 4. Commercial production kitchen for homeowners and residents 5. Forest / Farm fresh produce 6. Organic produce 7. Stormwater management best practices and demonstration projects 8. Stream bank stabilization demonstration projects 9. Riparian buffer demonstration projects 10. Environmental education center 11. Master Gardener programs 12. Canoe / Kayak Livery 13. Promote canoeing / kayaking of Marvin and Potato Creeks 14. Promote fishing of Marvin and Potato Creeks, provide accessible opportunities for fishing 15. Grist mill, Hull indicated there are remnants of a former mill along the stream on the County property.

16. Dinner Theater 17. Creamery 18. Satellite sales office for regional winery sales 19. Bike rentals 20. Promote walking / biking tours of Smethport’s Historic Mansion District, and other historic destinations in town

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In addition to these items the County: 1. will be constructing a wetland on the western end of the property to mitigate wetland impacts related to the County’s construction of the Gallico Bridge.

2. would like to improve the ford crossing of Marvin Creek to permit heavy equipment to get to the wetland construction site.

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McKean County Complex Concept Plans Based on the inventory, analysis, and public input process, several concept plans were developed for the County Complex site. The conceptual plans reflect the input received from County representatives, the project’s steering committee, and professional input from Pashek Associates staff members. Concepts focus on sustainability, an enhancement and increase in shared programs between existing facilities, and an increase in recreation opportunities.

McKean County Complex – Concept #1 This concept includes a woody biomass plant along with the County Jail; Senior Care Facility; agricultural, historical, and cultural tourism facilities; County offices; trails; farming; and a 300’ riparian buffer.

Sustainable Sustainability, in a general sense, is the capacity to maintain a certain process or state indefinitely. In an ecological sense it is a means of shaping civilization and human activity so that society, its members and its economies are able to meet their needs and express their greatest potential now, while preserving and maintaining biodiversity and natural ecosystem productivity for the very long term.

• Woody Biomass Plant – this proposed facility would provide new jobs and a new supply of energy for the Borough and on-site facilities. The plant could also offer work programs for jail inmates.

A new barn could store equipment used by the plant and jail for their garden.

• Willow Biomass Fields – these fields provide a productive riparian buffer by serving as demonstration fields to help fuel the biomass plant.

• Existing County Jail – work programs for inmates can include stream restoration, riparian buffer planting and restoration, and willow biomass production.

• Existing Senior Care Facility – excess mowed area around this facility is converted into productive orchards and gardens to supply fresh food for the cafeteria.

• Proposed Agricultural, Historical, and Cultural Tourism Facilities – the existing historic buildings located on the site are proposed to serve as a tourism attraction to include a café, kayak and canoe rentals, and exhibits on sustainable agriculture, woody biomass production, and the history of site. Parking is relocated to the rear of the existing buildings.

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• County Office Facilities – two new buildings are proposed to complement the existing office buildings to create a courtyard in the center. Vehicular circulation is rerouted around the building with most of the parking located in the rear with one main access on Route 6 and a connection to the Senior Care Facility.

• Barns – Two barns, one existing and a new one, serve as equipment storage for the farmer.

• Sustainable Agricultural Fields - 67 acres of the property are reserved for agricultural use provided that sustainable best practices are followed.

• Canoe / Kayak Launch – a boat launch is located off of the existing farm road.

• Nature Trails – About 1.1 miles of nature trails connect all of the facilities and the Shared Use Hiking, Biking, and Snowmobile Trail.

• Shared Use Non-Motorized Hiking and Biking Trail – this existing trail runs from Kinzua State Park to Smethport, including about 1.1 miles through the property.

• Shared Use Hiking, Biking, and Snowmobile Trail – this existing trail connects Elk State Forest and Clermont Trail to Hamlin Lake Park, Smethport Business District, and the County Fairgrounds.

The trail includes about one mile through the County Complex property.

• Riparian Buffer – in order to properly filter out pollutants, including fertilizers, and protect the stream, and its fish, a 300’ planted buffer area is proposed on both sides of the stream. The eastern side of the stream also includes willow fields that appropriate for riparian buffers. Smaller 50’ riparian buffers are proposed for small ditches and tributaries of the main stream.

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McKean County Complex – Concept #2 This concept includes the County Jail; Senior Care Facility; agricultural, historical, and cultural tourism facilities; County offices; trails; farming; pasture land; and a riparian buffer.

• Existing County Jail – work programs for inmates can include stream restoration and riparian buffer planting and restoration.

A new barn is proposed to house equipment for the farmer and jail.

• Existing Senior Care Facility – excess mowed area around this facility is converted into productive orchards and gardens to supply fresh food for the cafeteria.

• Proposed Agricultural, Historical, and Cultural Tourism Facilities – a new building along with a restored barn are proposed to serve as a tourism attraction to include a café, kayak and canoe rentals, and exhibits on sustainable agriculture, and the history of site. Parking is located to the rear of the buildings.

Riparian A riparian zone or riparian area is the interface between land and a stream. Riparian zones may be natural or engineered for soil stabilization or restoration.

These zones are important natural biofilters, protecting aquatic environments from excessive sedimentation, polluted surface runoff and erosion. They supply shelter and food for many aquatic animals and shade that is an important part of stream temperature regulation. When riparian zones are damaged by construction, agriculture or silviculture, biological restoration can take place, usually by human intervention in erosion control and revegetation.

• County Office Facilities – a new building is proposed to complement the existing office buildings to house additional county offices. Vehicular circulation is rerouted around the rear of the buildings with parking located in the rear and one main access on Route 6 and a connection to the Senior Care Facility.

• Barns – new barn serves as equipment storage for the farmer.

• Riparian Buffer – in order to properly filter out pollutants, including fertilizers, and protect the stream and its fish a 300’ planted buffer area is proposed on the east side of the stream. Smaller 50’ riparian buffers are proposed for small ditches and tributaries of the main stream.

• Sustainable Agricultural Fields - 79 acres of the property are reserved for agricultural use provided that sustainable best practices are followed.

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• Sledding Hill – during the winter, this area is proposed to serve as a sledding hill with associated parking and a shelter.

• Canoe / Kayak Launch – a boat launch is accessed by a trail connecting the tourism facility.

• Nature Trails – About 1.1 miles of nature trails connect all of the facilities and the Shared Use Hiking, Biking, and Snowmobile Trail.

• Shared Use Non-Motorized Hiking and Biking Trail – this existing trail runs from Kinzua State Park to Smethport, including about 1.1 miles through the property.

• Shared Use Hiking, Biking, Equestrian, and Snowmobile Trail – this existing trail connects Elk State Forest and Clermont Trail to Hamlin Lake Park, Smethport Business District, and the County Fairgrounds. The trail includes about one mile through the County Complex property.

• Mountain Bike Trails – about 4.1 miles of singletrack trails are proposed to wind through the existing wooded hillsides of the site.

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County 4-H and Fairgrounds Background and History Source: www.smethporthistory.org/east.smethport/fairgrounds/1905fairgrounds.htm

In 1905, farmers were making plans to drive their cattle to the McKean County Fair in Smethport because it was one of the biggest events in the area. Nowadays, the cows are not herded to the fair but it is still one of the biggest events in the county. The McKean County Fair Association can trace its roots back to a new racetrack and buildings first used on Oct. 3-6, 1905. According to the McKean County Miner of April 6, 1905 “enterprising citizens” had wanted “for some time” a race track and fair buildings near Smethport. The track to draw horses and trainers into the area for business and the buildings to attract farmers to display their produce and animals at a fair.

It was pointed out that Smethport was ideally located for a fairgrounds in the center of the county, and that the railroad system coming together at Smethport made it possible for residents throughout the county to travel to the fair in the morning, spend a few hours, then return home in the evening.

Although most residents from the area equate the month of August with the event, in its early days, the fair was always held after Labor Day in September. The date was later changed to August due to the unpredictable weather in September. School children in the area were often dismissed

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from classes to allow them the time to attend the event.

Stock was sold, first in the amount of $1,500, and later, in June, $5,400 with the facility an “assured fact.” With Robert W. Hilton of Smethport promoting the project and a Mr. Dawson, a track-builder from Wellsville, N.Y., supervising the construction, the track and fairgrounds were built on the Hilton and Nourse farms in East Smethport, were just completed by the beginning of October 1905, in time for the first fair. The first officers for the county fair association were R.W. Hilton, president; C.D. Comes, vice president; F.D. Gallup, secretary; B.F. Garlick, assistant secretary; James A. McKean, treasurer; and F.L. Sherburne, supervisor. The first directors were Hilton, Comes, Gallup, McKean, and Sherburne.

The first fairgrounds consisted of four main facilities: a grandstand, a combination bandstand/judges’ stand, stables, and ball grounds. The grandstand, seating 1,000 people, was built near the track’s first turn and was constructed so that spectators could see the whole race as well as the finish without rising from their seats. Although the first county fair was supposed to begin on Tuesday, Oct. 3, rain delayed the official opening until Wednesday, Grange Day. By horse race time, an important part of the first fair, 2,500 people were on the grounds, riding the two Ferris wheels and the merry-go-round, and participating in the 40 attractions on the midway or Pike. Ten automobiles drove on the grounds, carrying the fair directors, speakers and prominent citizens. Exhibits seen included produce and farm animals and machinery, as well as goods from local stores such as Redfields’s Hardware.

Helping Hilton, who did much to promote the fair, was James Connelly, leather products manufacturer of Ludlow, and John C. Looker, a Bradford oil producer. The men donated both money and business skills to the association and proposed the change of ownership from stockholders to the county -a move made in 1936 that prevented the possible loss of the grounds after the fairs close in 1942. Other early leaders in the fair’s growth were George Simpson of Bradford, county Democratic chairman; Russell Lindsley, publisher of the McKean County Democrat; and Henry J. Rice and Bernard T. Garlick, fair secretaries at different times.

In 1910 the fair was well established. An airplane flight was introduced that year. The fair of 1913 also saw an “aeroplane,” whose pilot thought

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the track wide enough to allow take-off: it crashed after 50 feet of flight, destroying the craft. The same year, the fair, never a financial success, was threatened with public sale due to out-standing bills. O.J. Hamlin, a Smethport banker, intervened, however, guaranteeing its indebtedness for the year as well as $700 for the next five years.

It was reported that an accident marred the festivities of the 1914 fair - a priest from Smethport drove his automobile through an open gate onto the race track during a race; a horse ran into the car, causing injury to the driver, priest and horse. A “better babies” contest highlighted the 1915 event, a competition in which babies were sought who were “100 percent” in the eyes of the judges. Four were selected winners and a drawing decided the victor.

A state quarantine for infantile paralysis caused the fair of 1916 to be canceled. It resumed in 1917 with state funds to pay the premiums, thanks to an act of the Pennsylvania Legislature passed that year. Bradfordian Harri Emery gave daily plane rides to fairgoers in the 1920 fair, which also featured nighttime carnivals.

The year 1925 was the first time the fair was lit with electricity, a luxury which had come to Smethport only that year. New grandstands were also constructed and the fair events were broadcast over the radio for the first time, with a Buffalo, N.Y., radio studio providing the play-by-play. This was also the year in which the fair association purchased the fairground land from O.D. Nourse. In 1926, Connelly and Looker contributed large amounts of money to boost the fair’s building program. The first two horse barns were also constructed that year. A Mardi gras was featured during the 1931 fair, with fair goers arriving in costume and prizes given for outstanding dress.

Transfer of the ownership of fair land to the county came in 1936, with the county allowing the association to use the land ever since. A crowd of 15,000 people during the first day of the 1938 fair broke the institution’s attendance one-day record. As the county residents changed more from agriculture to industry, the fair adjusted by providing more night time entertainment for residents working during the day. Parades featured fire departments and bands, and with brightly lighted midways, gradually replaced afternoon horse races as the main attractions.

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Along with World War II came a tightening of time and resources and the county fair was not held in 1942 or for some years to come. The fairgrounds sat unused for about a dozen years when Russell J. Weston, who has become president of the fair association in 1953, began a drive, along with others, to revive the fair.

The grounds and buildings had fallen into disuse by this time. Many volunteers, individuals and organizations, gave time and effort to renovate the fairgrounds, including the fire departments and county granges - the president remembers particularly working on the barn roof at that time. The grandstand was rebuilt, the race track cleared and barns and other buildings repaired, and the fair opened on Labor Day, 1954, with record-breaking crowds making the fair bigger than ever. After that, for all years to come, newer attractions, rides, and singers were added to the fair’s events and we now have our current McKean County Fair.

Property Description The 25 acre property is located in Keating Township, east of Smethport Borough, approximately one quarter mile south of the U.S. Route 6 on State Route 46, Valley Road.

In November 15, 1925, the McKean County Fair Association purchased 25.0875 acres from O.D. Nourse. On August 22, 1938, the McKean County Fair Association conveyed this property to the McKean County Commissioners.

The property was transferred in accordance with an Act of the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, approved July 1, 1937, P.L. 2612 titled “An Act authorizing county commissioners of any county to hold in trust for inhabitants and citizens of the county any real estate and property appropriate for agricultural fairs or exhibits and to lease the same without expense or liability to the county to any incorporated agricultural association to operate and conduct an annual fair within the County.”

The Deed includes the following restriction: That the McKean County Fair Association grant and convey to the County of McKean and the Commissioners thereof, and their successors, in office, all real estate properties and buildings of the McKean County Fair Association IN

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TRUST, however for the benefit of the inhabitants and citizens of the county, reserving to the McKean County Fair Association and its successors, the right to use and enjoy said lands, buildings and properties for and during the term of its charted existence, and thereafter IN TRUST for the benefit of the citizens of the County of McKean to be used and enjoyed as such, or new or successor agricultural association as may come into existence.

The race track and associated facilities are leased on an annual basis to the McKean Motorsports. The lease provides McKean Motorsports with the right for using the leased land every saturday night between April 1st and October 1st, with the exception of the sunday before, and the saturday of the McKean County Fair.

Facilities leased include: • • • • • • • • • •

Race track and surrounding area Grandstand Restrooms, 2 Parking Area Pit Concession Stand Art Exhibit Building Space to park storage trailer and building Hill Top Booth Tech Area - currently Pytcher Building Grange Building

Surrounding Land Use Immediately north of the site are several land uses. Keating Township owns property immediately northeast of the fairgrounds. Immediately Northwest of the fairgrounds several parcels are owned, and being used for Duffy Industries, a heavy construction business. Immediately north of the property is a small mobile home park, with fourteen units, located along Grange Hall Road. Further north, beyond the immediately adjacent properties, large lot single family residences front U.S. Route 6.

Property to the west is forested, and property to the south is in agricultural use.

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Topographic Features The topography of the site is gently sloping, from State Route 46, at an approximate elevation of 1510, on the eastern side of the site, towards Potato Creek located west of the site, at an approximate elevation of 1480.

Unnamed tributaries to Potato Creek are located along the north and south of the property.

Hydrology Potato Creek and its associated tributaries are classified in the Pennsylvania Code, Chapter 93, as a Cold Water Fishery. Potato Creek is also a trout stocked fishery.

Floodplain and Wetlands A review of the FEMA Floodplain map of the area, along with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife National Wetlands Inventory mapping indicates there are no floodplains, or wetlands located on the property. A field review of the property confirmed the absence of wetlands on the property.

Circulation Vehicular access to the site is provided from State Route 46 which parallels the eastern portion of the property, and Grange Hall Road which enters the site from U.S. Route 6, located to the north of the property.

The main gate, used for public access to the site, is located on the northeastern corner of the property, just south of the Keating Township Municipal Building. South of this entrance is a second vehicular entrance that provides controlled access to the pit area of the race track located on site.

Grange Hall Road is used to provide access to vendors, campers, and others, but generally not the general public.

There is a network of internal roads / access ways, that provides controlled access to the various facilities and activity areas located on the fairgrounds.

These roads are typically constructed from compact stone or earth. A compacted earth / field parking area is located just inside the main entrance.

This area is approximately 600’ x 500’ in size and can accommodate 700 to 900 vehicles depending on parking efficiencies.

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During large events at the fairgrounds, adjacent properties are leased to provide additional parking. This includes one property immediately east of the site. This property can accommodate 1000 to 1,300 vehicles, and the Duffy Industries property, which can accommodate 2,200 to 2,800 vehicles.

The total parking which can be accommodated on site and surrounding leased property is approximately 4,500 to 5,000 vehicles. This capacity is only present during fair week when the adjacent properties are leased. The remainder of the year the on site capacity is approximately 1000 vehicles.

A key person interview with the operator of the McKean County Raceway indicated parking is an issue for the operations of the raceway. During race nights all on site parking is occupied, and overflow parking occurs on the shoulders of State Route 46, and along U.S. Route 6. Further, the access road to the pit area is problematic. Clay is often carried out onto State Route 46 creating a safety hazard due to slick conditions on the roadway.

In these instances the fire department is called upon to hose off the clay from the roadway.

Buildings, Structures, and Activity Areas There are twenty-four buildings, structures, and activity areas located on the property. A site visit was completed with a member of the Fair Board to review these areas. The table on the following page provides a summary of observations from this review.

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Facility

Facility Name

Size

Notes

1.

4-H and Fairgrounds Office

50’ x 14’

Accessible, ADA Parking available, constructed in 1998

2.

Cattle Barn 1

100’ x 30’

Oldest buildings on grounds, consider replacing two cattle barns with one larger structure

3.

Cattle Barn 2

100’ x 30’

Oldest buildings on grounds, consider replacing two cattle barns with one larger structure

4.

Sheep, Swine, & Horse Barn

100’ x 45’

5.

6.

7.

Chicken & Rabbit Barn Horse Barn 1 Horse Barn 2

100’ x 35’ 100’ x 30’ 100’ x 65’

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

No longer existing Show Ring Building Exhibit Hall Wild Life Building Maintenance Building Campground Restroom & Showers Pit Concessions Building Portable Ticket Buildings Pytcher Building - Exhibits Pytcher Building Raceway Office 4-H Building Mini Stage Showers Restrooms Grange & Exhibit Hall Stage, Music & Entertainment Race Track

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

25.

26.

27.

Grandstand - capacity 3,500 Campground Restroom & Showers

28.

4-H Outdoor Show Ring

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Renovated in 2009, new stalls this year Location of former chicken & rabbit building

80’ x 60’ 80’ x 65’ 75’ x 28’ 40’ x 30’ 27’ x 20’ 44’ x 20’ 20’ x 16’ 145’ x 20’ 32’ x 22’ 34’ x 25’ 80’ x 36’ 22’ x 22’ 20’ x 18’ 40’ x 26’ 120’ x 50’ 40’ x 40’ 1/3 mile clay track 1/2 mile dirt track

Leased for flea market in summer.

New building and stalls

Needs renovated 1/3 mile track leased to McKean County Raceway, weekly race events, fair week track used for demo. derby, tractor pulls, entertainment. 1/2 mile track used for fair parade Desire to add roof over grandstand

40 to 50 camp sites with water and electric hookups 200’ x 140’

Daily, weekend, and seasonal site rentals, no permanent sites

0.60 acres in area, fenced

Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

Of all of the structures reviewed at the fairground there appears to not be any structures eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. This is due to the age of the structures, and lack of architectural significance.

Discussions with a fairground board member, Mr. John Berne, identified the major issues with the fairgrounds as follows: • • • • •

Stormwater runoff and muddy conditions during rain events Accessibility throughout fairgrounds and to facilities General building rehabilitation, upgrades, and improvements Need to upgrade electrical service to property Raceway Improvements - Better access to State Route 46 - Need to replace safety fencing in front of grandstands - Need for new track office, existing office is in very poor condition - lack of parking for large race events - Clay surface is in poor condition, needs to be rehabilitated

A representative for the McKean County Raceway, Mr. Tom Gleason, confirmed the needed improvements to the race track facilities as indicated above.

During the site visit, it was noted the old bleachers that are located south of the grandstands do not meet current Consumer Product Safety Commission’s “Guidelines for Retrofitting Bleachers”, publication no.

CPSC 330.

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Bleachers can pose a number of hazards: • Guardrails may be missing from the backs or open sides of the bleachers.

• Openings between components in the seats and guardrails may be big enough to permit a child or a person to fall through.

• There may be missing or inadequate bleacher components, such as seating planks or footboards.

• Bleachers may collapse if they are not installed or operated properly. This danger is particularly evidenced with telescopic/ folding bleachers, portable/movable bleachers, and temporary bleachers.

In 2000, the CPSC issued the following Guidelines for Retrofitting of Bleachers: • Guardrails should be present on the backs and portions of the open ends of bleachers where the toe footboard, seatboard, or aisle is 30 inches or more above the ground. Bleachers with the top row nominally 30 inches above ground may be exempt from this recommendation.

• The top surface of the guardrail should be at least 42 inches above the leading edge of the footboard, seatboard, or aisle, whichever is adjacent.

• When bleachers are used adjacent to a wall that is at least as high as the recommended guardrail height, the guardrail is not needed if a four-inch diameter sphere fails to pass between the bleachers and the wall.

• Any opening between components of the guardrail or under the guardrail should prevent passage of a four-inch sphere.

• Any opening between the components in the seating, such as between the footboard, seatboard, and riser should prevent passage of a four-inch diameter sphere where the footboard is 30 inches or more above the ground and where the opening would permit a fall of 30 inches or more.

• The preferable guardrail design uses only vertical members as in-fill between the top and bottom rails. If there are openings in the in-fill that could provide a foothold for climbing, the widest measurement of the opening where the foot could rest should be limited to a

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• • •

• •

maximum of 1.75 inches. Opening patterns that provide a ladder effect should be avoided. If chain link fencing is used on guardrails, it should have a mesh size of 1.25-inch square or less.

Aisles, handrails, non-skid surfaces, and other items that assist in access and egress on bleachers should be incorporated into any retrofit project where feasible.

The option of replacing bleachers, as opposed to retrofitting, should be considered.

Materials and methods used for retrofitting should prevent the introduction of new hazards, such as bleacher tip over, bleacher collapse, guardrail collapse, and contact or tripping hazards.

The retrofit should not have any sharp points or edges, such as protruding bolt ends or unfinished edges on aluminum extrusions.

Bleachers should be thoroughly inspected at least quarterly by trained personnel and problems corrected immediately. Records of these actions should be retained.

A licensed professional engineer, registered architect, or company that is qualified to provide bleacher products and services should inspect the bleachers at least every two years and provide a written certification the bleachers are fit for use. CPSC recommends consulting local building officials to determine if permits are required and the use of licensed professionals to complete needed work.

• Records of all incidents and injuries should be retained.

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We recommend these bleachers be immediately cordoned in accordance with OSHA requirements to prohibit access to them, and not used until such time they can be retrofitted to meet this standard or replaced with new bleachers complying with the standards.

Environmental Issues A review of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection EMap indicates there are no known environmental issues associated with this site.

Soil Types The United States Geologic Survey maintains the United States Department of Agriculture’s Soil Conservation Service database which contains data on soil properties and gives an indications of whether they present constraints or opportunities for various types of land use and development.

The McKean County 4-H and Fairground contains the following soils: • Atkins silt loam, Symbol: At The Atkins component makes up 85 percent of the map unit. Slopes are 0 to 3 percent. This component is on flood plains. The parent material consists of fine-loamy alluvium derived from sedimentary rock. Depth to a root restrictive layer, bedrock, lithic, is 60 to 99 inches. The natural drainage class is poorly drained. Water movement in the most restrictive layer is moderately low. Available water to a depth of 60 inches is high. Shrink-swell potential is low.

This soil is frequently flooded. It is not ponded. A seasonal zone of water saturation is at 6 inches during January, February, March, Small Commercial

Pathways and Trails

At

Very Limited

Beb

Very Limited

Somewhat Limited Not Limited

Sym

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Camps, Picnic Areas, and Playgrounds

Suitability for Septic Fields

Forest Productivity Site Index

Corn Yield

Very Limited

Very Limited

105

100

Very Limited

Very Limited

90

105

Comments

Limitations due to depths to saturated zone Limitations due to depths to saturated zone

Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

April, May, June, November, December. Organic matter content in the surface horizon is about 3 percent. Nonirrigated land capability classification is 3w. This soil meets hydric criteria. • Braceville silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes, Symbol, BeB The Braceville component makes up 85 percent of the map unit.

Slopes are 3 to 8 percent. This component is on outwash terraces.

The parent material consists of coarse-loamy outwash. Depth to a root restrictive layer, fragipan, is 20 to 32 inches. The natural drainage class is moderately well drained. Water movement in the most restrictive layer is moderately low. Available water to a depth of 60 inches is low. Shrink-swell potential is low. This soil is not flooded. It is not ponded. A seasonal zone of water saturation is at 24 inches during January, February, March, November, December.

Organic matter content in the surface horizon is about 2 percent.

Nonirrigated land capability classification is 2e. This soil does not meet hydric criteria.

Symbol

At BeB

Description

Hydric

Atkins silt loam Braceville silt loam, 3to 8 percent

Yes No

Prime Ag / Important Farmland Important Farmland No

Vegetation Existing vegetation is limited on the site to mowed lawn / field areas, and some perimeter buffers consisting of large shade trees.

Zoning There is no zoning in Keating Township.

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Utilities PA One Call System, Inc. responded through their automated response service, Serial No. 20100261096-00, as noted in the following table. It is important to note that public sewer, water, and electric service is provided to the McKean County 4-H and Fairground site.

PA One Call Responses - Serial No. 20100261096-000 Utility Company Address Response Comcast

75 Ideal Farm Road Kane, PA 16735

UGI Central Penn Gas, Inc.

225 Morgantown Road Reading, PA 19611

Zito Media LP

611 Vader Hill Road Coudersport, PA 16915

Verizon Pennsylvania Inc.

201 Stanwix Street, 4th Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222 P.O. Box 103 East Smethport, PA 16730 1100 State Street Erie, PA 16501 P.O. Box 279 Allegany, NY 14706 5404 Evans Road Erie, PA 16509 201 West Main Street P.O. Box 427 Smethport, PA 16749

Keating Township National Fuel Supply Northern Pipeline Company First Energy Corporation Smethport Borough Smethport Borough Authority

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Clear Potential conflict, direct contact to follow Clear Potential conflict, direct contact to follow Provides sanitary sewer service to the fairground Potential conflict, plans provided to consultant Did not respond Did not respond, provides electric to site Provides public water to the site

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McKean County 4-H Grounds Concept Plan Based on the inventory, analysis, and public input process a concept plan was developed for the McKean County 4-H Grounds. The conceptual plan reflects the input received from County representatives, the project’s steering committee, and professional input from Pashek Associates staff members. The concept focuses on sustainability, an enhancement and increase in shared programs between existing facilities, and an increase in recreation facilities and programs.

McKean County 4-H Grounds – Concept Plan This concept includes relocating a few key buildings, construction of new grandstands, reorganizing circulation patterns, and installation of stormwater best management practices.

• New Mural on Existing Silo – a mural highlighting the fairgrounds and racetrack would help advertise and identify the both establishments.

• Reorganized Gravel Roads / Stabilized Turf Parking Areas – better defined roads helps drivers stay on the road rather than eroding soils and tracking mud, dirt, and debris throughout Rain Gardens the site. Create stabilized turf parking areas to provide appropriate areas to accommodate on-site parking needs.

Rain Gardens act like a native forest by collecting, absorbing, and • Vegetative Screens – to screen views of adjacent properties. filtering stormwater runoff from roof tops, driveways, patios, and other • Proposed Cattle Building – this proposed building will areas that don’t allow water to soak replace the two existing smaller cattle barns. in. Rain gardens are designed as shallow depressions that: can be • Proposed Exhibit Hall – this proposed building, located shaped and sized to fit your yard, next to the Exhibit Hall, will replace the existing Pytcher are constructed with soil mixes that Building to make room for more grandstands. allow water to soak in rapidly and support healthy plant growth, and • New Track Office – the existing office will be razed and a can be landscaped with a variety of new building is proposed next to the proposed Exhibit Hall plants to fit the surroundings. and existing restrooms. This area is proposed to be the main entrance into the grandstands.

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• New Grandstands with Box Seats and Concessions – reflecting the existing grandstands, these proposed stands will include box seats and concessions located underneath. The new grandstands will meet the needs of the McKean County Raceway by providing corporate boxes for speedway events.

• New Concessions / Restrooms – this proposed building is located in the pit area and will replace the existing building near the campgrounds.

• Refinement of Existing Campground – this allows more room for campgrounds and booth / Exhibit space.

• New Pit Entrance – to reduce confusion, the main entrance to the pits is located adjacent to the new grandstands being proposed.

• Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) – these BMPs reduce sedimentation, increases infiltration, and filters out pollutants. These practices are proposed throughout the site where appropriate.

Permeable Paving “Permeable” is a term used to describe paving methods for roads, parking lots and walkways that allow the movement of water and air around the paving material. Although some porous paving materials appear nearly indistinguishable from nonporous materials, their environmental effects are qualitatively different.

Whether porous asphalt, concrete, paving stones or bricks, all these pervious materials allow precipitation to percolate through areas that would traditionally be impervious and instead infiltrates the stormwater through to the soil below.

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- Pit Road Exit – a 200 foot length of gravel road leading from Route 46 is designed to knock off excess clay from vehicles leaving the track.

- Grass Filtration Swales – these planted trapezoidal swales are designed to slow and filter out dirty runoff while directing it to the rain garden. These swales are at least ten feet wide in order to be mowed.

- Rain Garden – this large planted depression is designed to capture stormwater runoff, filter it, and allow it to infiltrate into the ground.

- Water Quality Inserts – placed in existing inlets, these devices remove sedimentation and helps prevent piles from clogging.

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New Pit Entrance

Water Quality Insert on Existing Inlets

Grass Filtration Swale (typ.)

Rain Garden / Stormwater Quality and Infiltration

New Concessions / Restrooms in Pit Area

New Clay Track Surface

Vegetative Screen

Reconfigure of Campground Roads

New Grandstands with Box Seats and Concessions

Building Inventory 1 ! ( 2 ! ( 3 ! ( 4 ! ( 5 ! ( 6 ! ( 7 ! ( 8 ! ( 9 ! ( 10 ! ( 11 ! ( 12 ! ( 13 ! ( 14 ! ( 15 ! ( 16 ! ( 17 ! ( 18 ! ( 19 ! ( 20 ! ( 21 ! ( 22 ! ( 23 ! ( 24 ! ( 25 ! ( 26 ! ( 27 ! (

Office (relocated) Cattle Barn (replaced) Cattle Barn Sheep, Swine, & Horses Chicken & Rabbit Horse Barn Horse Barn Building no longer here Show Ring Exhibit Hall Wild Life Building Maintenance Building Restrooms & Showers Pit Concession (relocated) Portable Ticket Buildings Pytcher Building (relocated) Restrooms Raceway Office (relocated) 4-H Building Mini Stage Showers Restrooms Grange & Exhibit Hall Stage / Music & Entertainment Historical Society Museum Larry Ackley Complex Pole Building

New Track Office

Proposed Exibit Hall to Replace Pytcher Building 24 ! ( 25 ! (

23 ! (

! ( ! ( 26 ! ( 20

19

15 ! (

! (

17 ! (

13

10 ( 11 ! ! (

22 ! ( 21 ! (

Reorganized Gravel Roads

Vegetative Screen

! (

12

9 ! (

Proposed Cattle Building to Replace Existing Buildings

5 7 ! ( ! ( 6 !

27 4 ! ( ! ( (

New Mural on Existing Silo 1 ! (

Pit Road Exit

MCKEAN COUNTY 4-H & FAIRGROUNDS

CONCEPT PLAN

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Master Plan Recommendations

Recommendations This master plan for the Smethport Trails, the McKean County Complex, and the McKean County 4-H Grounds is the result of intensive analysis of the sites, active public participation, and in-depth discussion regarding the recreation needs, trail needs, and conservation needs of McKean County Smethport Borough, and their residents.

This master plan serves as the foundation to guide decision making for future investments into these important resources.

With this plan, the County and the Borough will be able to respond in an orderly and fiscally responsible manner to requests from various organizations and individuals for improvements to the McKean County Complex, the McKean County 4-H Grounds, and the Smethport Trail System.

Good planning helps to reduce future conflicts and safety issues, and can reduce operation and maintenance costs. Further, a sound master plan has a greater chance of being funded by various agencies.

DCNR’S Top 10 Best “Green / Sustainable” Practices for Recreation and Conservation Sites • • • • • • •

•

Park Sustainability Guidelines “Creating Sustainable Community Parks, A Guide to Improving Quality of Life by Protecting Natural Resources”, published by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) in 2007, provides valuable recommendations regarding how to implement sustainable practices into design, maintenance, and operations of parks across the Commonwealth. The guide can be obtained from www.dcnr. state.pa.us/brc/GreeningPennsylvania.pdf These practices are based on the following principals:

• •

Promote groundwater infiltration; manage stormwater on site Create and/or enhance riparian and wetland buffers Minimize impacts or changes to the natural landscape Include an abundance of trees on the site Maintain and/or enhance native wildlife habitat Manage invasive species on the site; plant natives Minimize unnecessary and “costly” maintenance practices (pesticides, fertilizers, mowing, leaf collecting, watering, etc.)

Reference “LEED” certification guidelines for buildings and implement what is practical Maximize walkability to the site and within the site Provide opportunities for passive recreation experiences on the site

By following the above practices you will be able to develop sustainable sites that are practical, conserve resources and have a positive impact on the environment.

• Retain as much of the pre-existing landscape as possible during new construction, including the soil, rocks, native vegetation, wetlands, and contours. This will minimize disturbances, which can open up an area to invasive species. It can also keep costs down, as fewer new plants, soil amendments, and habitat enhancements will be needed.

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• Maintain high quality soils that will hold water and supply plants with proper nutrients. During construction, leave as much existing topsoil as possible. When new soil is brought in, ensure that it is certified weed free, in order to prevent the spread of new invasive species. Using compost and other natural products for mulch and fertilizer will help enhance the soil and feed the native plants. Good quality soil will reduce the need for fertilizers and supplemental watering.

• Connect new landscape components with the surrounding native vegetation to create larger contiguous areas of habitat. Many wildlife species need large ranges to find adequate food, mates, and shelter. By reducing the amount of roads, parking lots, and turf areas, or by placing these together, habitat quality will be enhanced.

• Create natural storm water management systems and other green infrastructure, such as rain gardens and swales of native grasses.

These systems help to minimize downstream flooding, recharge and filter groundwater, and are more cost-effective and environmentallysound than man-made systems of pipes and storage tanks.

• Protect wetlands from disturbance and fill. Avoid placing construction projects, day-use areas, and roads/parking lots near or in wetlands. Natural wetlands provide many benefits to the environment that cannot easily be duplicated with man-made ones.

• Use integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to minimize the use of chemical pesticides to control plant and insect pests. IPM is an ecologically-based approach to pest control that helps maintain strong and healthy plants. IPM can include the use of traps, sterile male pests, and quarantines.

• Minimize impermeable surfaces like roads, parking lots, and paved trails. Consider replacing asphalt and concrete with permeable pavement, mulch paths, gravel lots, and native vegetation.

Permeable surfaces help to recharge ground water, reduce erosion, lessen flooding events, and filter out pollutants. When impermeable surfaces must be used, arrange them in an area where they will not fragment habitat, make them as small in area as possible, and keep them away from water bodies.

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Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

• Reduce turf to only those areas essential for recreational and other human use activities. Turf offers little habitat benefit and is not as effective as many native plants in pollution filtration, flood prevention, and erosion control. In addition, turf maintenance can have negative impacts on the surrounding environment and can require lots of mowing, watering, and fertilizing. Replace nonnative turf grasses with native warm season grasses, which, once they are established, have lower maintenance needs. • Use native plants in riparian buffers around any surface water body, including wetlands. Riparian buffers help to filter pollutants before they reach water bodies, and the vegetation discourages nuisance geese from staying in the area. Roots from riparian vegetation also prevent erosion of soils into the water body and minimize flooding events.

Shade from these buffers acts as a temperature control for the water body, which enhances habitat value for aquatic organisms. The food and shelter values of these buffers also enhances habitat. In addition, by selecting the right kinds of plants, the scenic views of the water bodies can be enhanced. • Identify and remove invasive plant species whenever possible.

Invasive plants have a number of detrimental effects on natural habitats. Most invasive plants grow so densely and spread so rapidly that native vegetation is choked out.

Opportunities for sustainable park design at the McKean County Complex and the McKean County 4-H Grounds include permeable paving, rain gardens, native species, removing invasive species, reducing the amount of turf, expanding and restoring a riparian buffer and sustainable agricultural practices, to name a few.

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has developed the following Green / Sustainable Scorecard which they utilize to evaluate and rank projects being considered for grant funding.

The Smethport Trails System, McKean County Complex, and McKean County 4-H Grounds will each score well provided the recommendations contained herein are implemented.

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Green / Sustainable Project Scorecard Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Recreation and Conservation Section 1: Water Resources

Yes

No

Section 2: Natural Landscaping and Trees Yes Include trees on the site and maintain and enhance native 1 wildlife habitat including the protection of threatened or endangered species.

Site design reflects a thoughtful approach to minimizing maintenance practices, i.e., create native meadows from lawn, 2 reduce pesticide use, develop and environmentally friendly lawn care plan.

Site plan includes ways to control and manage invasive species; 3 including the use of integrated pest management practices.

No

1 2 3

4 5 6

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Site runoff will be controlled and retained on the site and post construction runoff will be managed and cleansed on-site.

Site design will protect, enhance, or repair wetlands, floodplains, seasonal pools, riparian areas / wetland buffers and / or streams.

Site design incorporates riparian / wetland buffers Buffer is at least 50 feet as measured from the top of the stream bank / wetland perimeter - Good Buffer is at least 100 feet as measured from the top of the stream bank / wetland perimeter - Better Buffer is greater than 100 feet as measured from the top of the stream bank / wetland perimeter - Best Site design will protect, enhance, or repair critical groundwater recharge areas.

Water use will be minimized through drought tolerant turf, landscaping, rain barrels, rain gardens, etc.

Site will promote groundwater infiltration and reduce runoff through the use of permeable surfacing on parking lots, trails, walkways, etc.

Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

Section 3: Green Design and Construction 1 Site is on an existing brownfield or greyfield.

Impacts to the existing landscape will be minimized to the 2 extent given the project objectives, i.e., site topography, trees, soils, etc. will be protected during construction.

Site design, construction, and use will maximize walkability of 3 the site.

If new buildings are proposed, or major renovations to existing 4 buildings are proposed, they will meet or exceed the LEED silver certification level.

Yes

No

Section 4: Connecting People to Nature Site design will provide the public with optimum site 1 accessibility (meeting the Americans with Disabilities Act Guidelines, safety, and wayfinding).

Site will provide opportunities for children to engage in 2 unorganized outdoor play.

Site will provide the public with opportunities for passive 3 experiences with nature, i.e, interpretive trails, viewing areas, sensory gardens, etc.

Site will include interpretive signage to build awareness and 4 educate users on various sustainable management practices taking place on the site.

Site will promote and protect unique cultural and historic 5 attributes.

Site will create opportunities for people to walk, bike, or use 6 public transportation to the site and within the site (connect to greenway and trail corridors).

Yes

No

Recommendations for the Smethport Trail System, the McKean County Complex and the McKean County 4-H Grounds are further described herein.

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Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

Smethport Trail System Improvements From a regional trail systems perspective one of the key features is to develop a logical trail access point near the Borough. Although Hamlin Lake Park can serve this function, a dedicated trail access is preferred so trail users can gain access to the trail system at times of heavy park use.

We recommend the 4.1 acres of Borough property, as identified in the inventory and analysis, located on the west side of U.S. Route 6 adjacent to Hamlin Lake Park be developed as a trail access point. Further, we recommend the other Borough parcels 15-006-609, and 15-006-610, be retained and opened to the public for trail uses. Last, we recommend parcel 15-006-301.2, containing 10.0 acres and privately held, be acquired in fee, or with a conservation easement, to preserve the streamside buffers along this reach of Marvin Creek and to ensure a green corridor between the former rail corridor and the stream.

Depending on the decisions made with respect to trail use, this trail access may include access for non-motorized, equestrian, and motorized trail uses, as well as fishing access to Marvin Creek. Therefore, the following improvements to this property are recommended: • Approximately 10 standard parking spaces, including one accessible space • Approximately 5 truck / trailer combination parking spaces to accommodate equestrian, snowmobile, and ATV access • Horse Stable / Tie Outs • Picnic Shelter approximately 20’ x 28’ in size • Restrooms • Drinking Fountain • Access to the proposed Shawmut Grade, BB&K Grade trails as well as to the existing and proposed trails in Hamlin Lake Park (nonmotorized access only) • Fishing access trails to Marvin Creek These improvements are depicted on the proposed Hamlin Lake Park Trail Access Master Plan.

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Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

Horse Shelter Trail Head Parking - 2 accessible spaces - 8 standard spaces

Truck and Trailer Parking

Restrooms

U.S. Route 6

- 5 spaces

Proposed Crosswalk

20’x28’ Shelter

Hamlin Lake Park

5’ Wide Natural Surface Fishing Access Trail

Drinking Fountain

Bla m cks

10’ Shared-use Trail Hiking, Biking, Equestrian, & Motorized

ith

Information Kiosk

M

ar

vin

Cr ee k

n Ru

Improve Existing Bridge Decking and railings

M

ar

vin

Cr ee

k

To McKean County Complex

Proposed Hamlin Lake Park Trail Access Smethport Borough - McKean County, Pennsylvania

5’ Wide Natural Surface Fishing Access Trail

Property, 4.1 acres, owned by the Borough of Smethport, adjacent to McKean County Complex

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Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

Hamlin Lake Park Access Improvements Opinion of Probable Construction Costs An Opinion of Probable Construction Cost was developed for the improvements proposed to establish the Hamlin Lake Park Access. These cost projections are based on the assumption they will be implemented through a public bidding process, utilizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry’s 2011 Prevailing Wage Rates. To budget for inflation we recommend the costs for future improvements be increased by four percent annually for each year beyond 2011.

In Pennsylvania all publicly bid projects valued over $25,000 are required to use the Prevailing Wage Rates. However, in-kind services and labor, volunteer labor, donated equipment and materials, all may reduce the construction costs.

The projected cost to complete the development of the Hamlin Lake Park Trail Access, through publicly bid contracts, is $320,000. This cost is itemized on the following page.

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Hamlin Lake Park Trail Access Development Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. 1

Item / Recommendation

Unit Cost

Quantity Unit

Trail Head Clearing and Grubbing (field grasses/brush)

1

LS

$1,000

$1,000

Earthwork

1200

CY

$10

$12,000

Asphalt paving (entrance road and aisle)

1350

SY

$35

$47,250

Gravel paving (parking spaces)

530

SY

$30

$15,900

Wheel stops

16

EA

$150

$2,400

Connecting trails (5’ wide limestone)

380

SY

$22

$8,360

Shared-use Trail (10’ wide limestone)

580

SY

$22

$12,760

Fishing Access Trail (5’ wide natural surface)

320

SY

$10

$3,200

Bridge improvements

1

LS

$20,000

$20,000

20’x28’ Shelter

1

LS

$35,000

$35,000

Restrooms (10x18’)

1

LS

$30,000

$30,000

Drinking fountain

1

EA

$6,000

$6,000

Benches with footings

4

EA

$1,500

$6,000

Kiosk

1

EA

$5,000

$5,000

Trash cans

2

EA

$1,000

$2,000

Crosswalks line striping

1

EA

$500

$500

Trail head sign and landscaping

1

EA

$3,500

$3,500

Shade trees

23

EA

$500

$11,500

Seeding

2

MSF

$100

$200

Water line

1

LS

$1,000

$1,000

Sanitary

1

LS

$5,000

$5,000

Electrical lines

1

LS

$5,000

$5,000

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$233,570

Construction Overhead

10

%

$233,570

$23,357

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures (including rain gardens)

4

%

$233,570

$9,343

Construction Contingency

10

%

$233,570

$23,357

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

10

$289,627 %

$289,627

TOTAL FOR HAMLIN LAKE TRAIL ACCESS DEVELOPMENT

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Total Item Cost

$28,963

$318,589

Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

Hamlin Lake Park Access Phasing Plan In an ideal world the Hamlin Lake Park Access would be constructed in one phase, minimizing the construction activities, disruptions, and realizing “economies of scale� construction savings. However, few communities and organizations can afford to proceed in this manner. They find it more appropriate to phase construction over a period of time.

Therefore, we recommend two phases of construction. This can take place during consecutive years, or they can be further spread out over time. For example completing one phase of construction every two to five years. The speed at which the phases are implemented would be based on the financial capacity of the project partners.

Phase I Improvements consist of those improvements to provide vehicular and pedestrian accessibility to the site, to improve the trail corridor, as well as, to improve the existing bridge crossing Blacksmith Run. Additionally, this phase would include constructing water, sewer, electric, and sanitary sewer infrastructure to the site.

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Hamlin Lake Park Trail Head Development - Phase I Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. 1

Item / Recommendation

Unit Cost

Quantity

Unit

1

LS

$1,000

$1,000

Earthwork

1200

CY

$10

$12,000

Asphalt paving (entrance road and aisle)

1350

SY

$35

$47,250

Gravel paving (parking spaces)

530

SY

$30

$15,900

Wheel stops

16

EA

$150

$2,400

Connecting trails (5’ wide limestone)

380

SY

$22

$8,360

Shared-use Trail (10’ wide limestone)

580

SY

$22

$12,760

Bridge improvements

1

LS

$20,000

$20,000

Water line

1

LS

$1,000

$1,000

Sanitary

1

LS

$5,000

$5,000

Electrical lines

1

LS

$5,000

$5,000

Trail Head Clearing and Grubbing (field grasses/brush)

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$130,670

Construction Overhead

10

%

$130,670

$13,067

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures (including rain gardens)

4

%

$130,670

$5,227

Construction Contingency

10

%

$130,670

$13,067

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

10

TOTAL FOR HAMLIN LAKE TRAIL ACCESS - PHASE I

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Total Item Cost

$162,031 %

$162,031

$16,203

$178,234

Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

Phase II Improvements includes those amenities which make a trail access desirable, such as signage and landscaping, a picnic shelter, restrooms, a drinking fountain, benches, and trash receptacles.

Hamlin Lake Park Trail Head Development - Phase II Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. 1

Item / Recommendation

Unit Cost

Quantity

Total Item Cost

Trail Head Fishing Access Trail (5’ wide natural surface)

320

SY

$10

$3,200

20’x28’ Shelter

1

LS

$35,000

$35,000

Restrooms (10x18’)

1

LS

$30,000

$30,000

Drinking fountain

1

EA

$6,000

$6,000

Benches with footings

4

EA

$1,500

$6,000

Kiosk

1

EA

$5,000

$5,000

Trash cans

2

EA

$1,000

$2,000

Crosswalks line striping

1

EA

$500

$500

Trail head sign and landscaping

1

EA

$3,500

$3,500

Shade trees

23

EA

$500

$11,500

Seeding

2

$100

$200

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$102,900

Construction Overhead

10

%

$102,900

$10,290

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures (including rain gardens)

4

%

$102,900

$4,116

Construction Contingency

10

%

$102,900

$10,290

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

10

$127,596 %

TOTAL FOR HAMLIN LAKE TRAIL ACCESS - PHASE II

$127,596

$12,760

$140,356

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Potential Partners The Potato Creek Trail Association, in conjunction with support from Smethport Borough, should take the lead in planning and implementing the Hamlin Lake Park Trail Access.

This project will be highly visible and upon implementation will illustrate the commitment of area residents, Smethport Borough, and McKean County in continuing to expand the County’s reputation as “Trail Central.”

Therefore, we recommend the implementation of these recommendations occur within the next three to five years.

Further support and assistance may be available through: • • • • • •

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Smethport Chamber of Commerce Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau PA Route 6 Heritage Alliance PA Wilds Design Assistance Program Pa Wilds Artisan Trail

Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

Smethport Borough and Wolfinger / Potato Creek Trail Systems We recommend McKean County, Smethport Borough, the Potato Creek Trail Association, and the Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club continue to work diligently to connect the existing trails with each other, and through the Smethport Borough Business District.

Trail connections to the business district will provide trail users with access to the goods and services they desire. We recommend the Borough complete a Trail Town assessment to identify opportunities for economic restructuring, marketing, and promotion. The Allegheny Trail Alliance’s publication “Trail Towns - Capturing Trail Based Tourism” provides excellent guidance on the Trail Town process.

We recommend the following trail development, beginning with former rail corridor that extends through the Borough owned parcels being proposed for the Hamlin Lake Trail Access. This former corridor is in good condition, and lends itself well to being improved.

Along this corridor is a bridge crossing Blacksmith Run. The substructure of the former railroad bridge has been improved by the Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club with the addition of a timber deck. To accommodate other modes of transportation, such as walking and cycling, handrails should be constructed along the edges of the decking.

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After crossing over Blacksmith Run, heading east, you reach Parcel Number 15-006-304 which is 4.1 acres in size. This parcel is of sufficient size and topography to allow it to accommodate a trail access point, and thus the proposed Hamlin Lake Trail Access. It is located immediately north of the Marvin Creek Bridge, on the western side of U.S. Route 6.

Directly across from the Borough property, on the eastern side of U.S. 6 is western portion of Hamlin Lake Park.

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Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

As noted earlier, the 2009 Hamlin Lake Master Plan provides recommendations for developing a trail from U.S. Route 6, along the northern edge of the lake to South Mechanics Street. A second trail is proposed south of the lake, extending from U.S. Route 6 through the park, to Center Street. The plan also includes recommendations for trail improvements to connect existing trails and walkways to provide a complete loop around the park. Reaching this vision will require successful negotiations with private property owners who surround the park and own the desired corridor.

From the proposed Hamlin Lake Trail Access described herein, we recommend a pedestrian crosswalk be established to cross U.S. Route 6, north of bridge over Marvin Creek. Once across U.S. Route 6 we recommend a ten foot wide crushed limestone shared use path be constructed along the northern edge of Hamlin Lake. This trail will extend just over one half mile from U.S. Route 6 to Mechanics Street. Three culverts will be required along this section of trail to span drainageways entering Hamlin Lake.

At Mechanic Street another pedestrian crosswalk is needed to cross over to the east side of Mechanic Street to reach the existing sidewalk. This sidewalk leads to and crosses over the Mechanic Street Bridge.

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Once at the Mechanic Street Bridge, at its intersection with East Willow Street, we recommend the trail continue east to the McKean County 4-H Grounds and south to the Smethport Area School Complex.

Heading east, from the Mechanic Street Bridge we recommend the trail be constructed as a compacted limestone path along the south bank of Marvin Creek. Approximately half way between the Mechanic Street Bridge and Potato Creek, we propose to connect this trail Willow Street, at South Nelson Street to the existing trail along Marvin Creek. We recommend this section of trail be constructed as a five foot wide compacted limestone trail.

It would be approximately 200 feet in length.

Continuing beyond the connector described above, the proposed trail would extend to Potato Creek. We recommend a bridge be constructed at this location, across Potato Creek, so the trail can extend to the Pennsy Grade Trail and to the McKean County 4-H Grounds.

Along West Willow Street we propose the trail continue into Hamlin Lake Park. Here we propose a ten foot wide crushed limestone trail from the intersection of West Willow and Center Streets, paralleling the north side of West Willow Street, and extending to the existing parking lot located near the tennis courts in Hamlin Lake Park. At the tennis courts, we recommend a trail be constructed heading northeast to connect with the existing Hamlin Lake Park Trail and Hamlin Lake island. We recommend a second trail be

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Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

constructed from the tennis courts heading west around the existing ball field to U.S. Route 6. At U.S. Route 6 we propose the trail continue north to the edge of the park property.

At the edge of the park property, along U.S. Route 6, Marvin Street, we propose a new sidewalk paralleling the east side of the street, heading north, to the Marvin Street Bridge. We recommend the Borough work with PennDOT and the property owners along Marvin Street to establish these sidewalks and associated curb cuts to accommodate pedestrians and to limit the flow of vehicular traffic at specific locations. These measures will increase safety for pedestrians and make the area more inviting for pedestrian use.

At the Marvin Creek Bridge the trail heads east and connects to the existing Hamlin Lake Park Trail, as well as, heading north to the propose trail across from the Hamlin Lake Park Trail Access.

Business District Connector Equally important as connecting the trail system with Hamlin Lake Park is connecting the trails to Main Street in Smethport Borough. There are many businesses located along Main Street who can provide the goods and services desired by visitors to the trail. Further, those visiting Smethport for other reasons, such as a touring the Borough’s Historic Mansion District, may extend their stay in the Borough if they have easy access

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to a regional trail system. Therefore, wayfinding is equally important to developing the trail system.

We recommend the Borough develop wayfinding signs to direct pedestrians from the proposed Hamlin Lake Park Trailhead, through Hamiln Lake Park, to the Main Street Business District, and to the Potato Creek and Wolfinger Trails, with a connector trail leading to Smethport Area School District Complex.

Along the east side of Marvin Street from the proposed Hamlin Lake Trail Access, a new sidewalk is proposed to connect to West Water Street. At West Water Street we recommend a pedestrian crosswalk be constructed to connect the existing sidewalk along the east side of Marvin Street between West Water Street and West Main Street. This proposed route connects the proposed Hamlin Lake Trail Access to the Borough’s historic Mansion District.

During our field evaluation, we noticed there is an opportunity to connect Hamlin Lake Park with the Smethport Business District along Washington Street. The Washington Street access is the only public right-of-way providing access to the northern side of Hamlin Lake Park. To make this connection we recommend a new sidewalk be constructed from the existing trail at the southern terminus of Washington Street in Hamlin Lake Park, around the parking area and again along Washington Street to West Washington Street.

Given the poor condition of the existing sidewalk along Washington Street, and the fact an extension to the park at this location would interfere with the private residence south of this location, we propose the sidewalk be reconstructed and relocated closer to the edge of the street. If the Borough desires to maintain the sidewalk in the existing location additional research needs to be conducted to determine if the deck associated with the private residence is encroaching into the right-of-way for Washington Street. If this is found to be true then the Borough would need to take action to resolve the encroachment before the sidewalk could be developed at this location.

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Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

Heading north on West Water Street a crosswalk should be constructed to connect the existing sidewalk between West Water Street and West Main Street, making a connection between the business district and Hamlin Lake Park. This is also the heart of the Mansion Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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When considering pedestrian routes through main street communities and their business districts it is important to evaluate opportunities, or lack thereof, of safe and desirable walking routes. Main Street, between Marvin and Mechanic Street, has been developed with pedestrians in mind.

Sidewalks are present on each side of the street and were in acceptable conditions at the time of our field view. Heading east will lead one to the heart of Smethport’s Main Street business district, and to the McKean County Courthouse located on Main Street, between Church and State Streets.

Hamlin Lake Park to Smethport School Complex Two opportunities exist to connect Hamlin Lake Park with the School Complex.

One opportunity is present from the trail proposed, in the Hamlin Lake Park Master Plan, through Hamlin Lake Park on the southside of the lake.

This trail is proposed to end at West Willow Street, near Center Street. To make this connection a crosswalk would be required across West Willow Street to reach the existing sidewalk along the south side of Center Street.

This sidewalk can be utilized to School Street. At School Street another pedestrian crosswalk is recommended to cross to the east side of School Street. Since there no sidewalks along School Street we recommend a sidewalk be constructed along the east side of School Street, from

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Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

Center Street to the School Complex. Along this route we recommend a pedestrian crosswalk be constructed to cross South Street as well as to cross the parking lot and drive lane at the School Complex.

The second opportunity to connect to Hamlin Lake Park exists between the trail on the northern side of Hamlin Lake, which is proposed to extend across the Mechanic Street Bridge and end at the intersection of South Mechanic and East Willow Street.

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The existing sidewalk on the Marvin Creek Bridge ends at a crosswalk over Willow Street. From Willow Street to the School Complex, located three and one half blocks to the south, there is a sidewalk along the eastern side of South Mechanic Street.

Smethport Elementary School, and the Smethport Area Junior and Senior High Schools are located southeast of Hamlin Lake Park, approximately three blocks south on Mechanic Street.

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Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

To Eldred

Main Wolfinger Trail Head with Parking Wolfinger Water Trail Landing Proposed Bridge

Wolfinger Trail Head #2 with Parking

Towers Loop & Smethport Overlook

Wol Wolfinger Water Trail Launch

Crosswalk alk Improvements at US Route 6

To Ormsby & McKean

Wolfinger Trail Head #3

Crosswalk Improvements at US Route 6

To Port Allegany

Existing Bridge Over Blacksmith Run Crosswalk at PA Route 46 Proposed Bridge

McKean County Complex County Offices, County Jail, and Senior Care Home

Proposed Bridge

County Leased Farming

Trail Head with Parking

To Kinzua Bridge State Park

Sunday us use Only

McKean County Fairgrounds, 4-H Gourunds, and Race Track

Crosswalk at US Route 6

To Elk State Forest & East Branch Dam

To Clermont

1” = 1,000’

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Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

Smethport Trail System Improvements Opinion of Probable Construction Costs An Opinion of Probable Construction Cost was developed for the improvements proposed for the Smethport Trail System Improvements recommended herein. These cost projections are based on the assumption they will be implemented through a public bidding process, utilizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry’s 2011 Prevailing Wage Rates. To budget for inflation we recommend the costs for future improvements be increased by four percent annually for each year beyond 2011.

In Pennsylvania all publicly bid projects valued over $25,000 are required to use the Prevailing Wage Rates. However, in-kind services and labor, volunteer labor, and donated equipment and materials, all may reduce the construction costs.

The projected cost to complete the development of the Smethport Trail System Improvements, through publicly bid contracts, is $860,000. This cost is itemized on the following pages.

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Smethport Trail System Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. Item / Recommendation 1

Qty

Unit

Unit Cost

Shared Use Trail (US Route 6 to South Mechanic Street Bridge) Clearing and grubbing Grading and compaction Surface rehabilitation Shared-use Trail (10’ wide compacted limestone) Culvert to span drainageways Seeding Crosswalk Line Stripping Way finding signage

1.1 839 3,400 3,780 3 0.3 1 3

AC CY LF SY EA AC EA EA

$2,500 $5 $4 $22 $5,000 $6,500 $2,000 $250

ITEM SUBTOTALS 2

Seeding Bridge Construction (Approx. 85’ stream crossing) Way finding signage

$122,215 1.12 863 3,500 3,900 0.4 1 3

AC CY LF SY AC LS EA

$2,500 $5 $4 $22 $6,500 $125,000 $250

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$2,800 $4,315 $12,775 $85,800 $2,600 $125,000 $750 $234,040

Shared Use Trail (Center Street to Hamlin Lake Park and on to US Route 6 ) Clearing and grubbing Grading and compaction Surface rehabilitation Shared-use Trail (10’ wide compacted limestone) Seeding Way finding signage

1 765 3,100 3,450 0.28 4

AC CY LF SY AC EA

$2,500 $5 $4 $22 $6,500 $250

ITEM SUBTOTALS 4

$2,750 $4,195 $12,410 $83,160 $15,000 $1,950 $2,000 $750

Shared Use Trail (South Mechanic Street to Existing Pennsy Trail) Clearing and grubbing Grading and compaction Surface rehabilitation Shared-use Trail (10’ wide compacted limestone)

3

Total Item Cost

$2,500 $3,825 $11,315 $75,900 $1,820 $1,000 $96,360

New Sidewalk (School Street from Center Street to School Complex) New Sidewalk Seeding Way finding signage

480 0.02 3

SY AC EA

$102 $6,500 $250

ITEM SUBTOTALS

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$48,960 $130 $750 $49,840

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Smethport Trail System Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. Item / Recommendation 5

Qty

Unit

Unit Cost

New Sidewalk (Proposed Hamlin Lake Park Trail along US Route 6 to West Water Street) New Sidewalk (Hamlin Lake Park Trail to Marvin Creek Bridge) New Sidewalk (Marvin Creek Bridge to West Water Street) New Curb (Hamlin Lake Park Trail to Marvin Creek Bridge) Seeding (Marvin Creek Bridge to West Water Street) Way finding signage

405

SY

$102

$41,310

225

SY

$102

$22,950

730

LF

$30

$21,900

0.2

AC

$6,500

$1,300

3

EA

$250

$750

ITEM SUBTOTALS 6

$88,210

New Sidewalk (West Water Street to Existing Hamlin Lake Park Trail) New Sidewalk (West Water Street to Hamlin Lake Park Trail)

378

SY

$102

$38,556

Seeding

0.04

AC

$6,500

$260

3

EA

$250

$750

Way finding signage ITEM SUBTOTALS

$39,566

TRAIL SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS SUBTOTAL Construction Overhead Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures (including rain gardens) Construction Contingency

$630,231 10

%

$630,231

$63,023

4

%

$630,231

$25,209

10

%

$630,231

$63,023

CONSTRUCTION BUDGET Incl. OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

10

%

$781,486 $781,486

TOTAL for Smethport Trail System Construction

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Total Item Cost

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$78,149

$859,635

Trail Easement Agreements Permission to locate the existing trails along Potato Creek and throughout the Wolfinger properties has been secured in one of two manners. Portions of these trails exist based upon verbal agreements with property owners who adjoin the corridor. Permission to access other portions has been secured through a one page written agreement which property owners have signed to indicate their approval for use of the trail. During the course of this project we were able to obtain partial records of the written agreements for some of the trail corridor. These documents are on file in the County Planning Office.

Although these agreements have worked to date for Potato Creek Trails Association and the Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club, we recommend a more formal trail easement agreement be executed with property owners along the trail corridors.

We recommend this for several reasons. First and foremost, a verbal agreement is just that, and can change at the whim of the land owner.

Second, the one page agreement does not establish expectations of the trail organization, the visitors to the trail, or the land owner. Nor, does it establish a length of the agreement. Without setting expectations disputes can easily arise. And without stipulating the length of the agreement use of the corridor could easily be revoked by the land owner(s).

The Pennsylvania Land Trust Association (PALTA) has published a “Model Trail Easement Agreement”. When considering to use this model trail easement agreement obtain the latest version directly from the Pennsylvania Land Trust Association’s website, www.conserveland. org/modeleasements. The Association updates the model agreement periodically to address legal issues and other matters as they are brought to the Association’s attention.

The PALTA Model Trail Easement Agreement serves as a point of beginning. Before it is presented to a land owner for consideration it should be modified to address the specific circumstance for which it will be used. The Model Agreement is five pages in length.

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The Model Trail Easement Agreement and Commentary provides users with a model state-of-the-art easement together with an expansive commentary covering alternative and optional provisions and the reasoning behind it all. User-friendliness, flexibility and best practices are key design elements.

The model uses plain language and careful formatting to improve readability. It is structured to help users avoid drafting errors when adapting it to their particular projects. The model provides for three levels of protection to deal with differing needs across a property, but one or two levels can easily be removed for simpler projects.

The model is tailored to Pennsylvania state law, and the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has approved its use for DCNR grant projects. It is regularly used by land trusts and local governments across the Commonwealth.

Steps to Securing Legal Access to Trail Corridors for Public Use As implementation of the trail begins those responsible for trail development must look ahead to those sections that are likely to be implemented in the upcoming three to five years. Property owners should be contacted in these segments to determine their willingness to permit public access to the proposed trail corridor, and determine what it will require to convey that right. This should occur in steps.

Step One: Determine if property owner is willing to donate property or easement for the proposed trail through their property. If yes proceed to negotiating sale or easement agreement. If the answer is no, proceed to step two.

Step Two: Determine if the property owner is willing to sell property or easement for the proposed trail through their property. If no, proceed to step three. If yes, establish sale price. Will it be a bargain sale (below market value) so the property owner can take advantage of the tax benefits of the donated property value? Will the property be sold at fair market value? If yes, appraisals should be conducted to determine the fair market value of the property. One appraisal isn’t sufficient, fair market value should be based on reviewing

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results of several appraisals, we recommend three appraisals be completed. Will the property be acquired at once, or will it occur over time to reduce the capital gains liability over a certain period of time? It is common for a parcel of land to be sold over a three to five year term, with payments for the property being made in equal installments over the prescribed time frame.

Step Three: Is the property a key parcel that must be acquired?

Are those who are responsible for developing the trail willing to pay above market value for the right to have public access to the corridor? If no, proceed to step four. If yes, proceed with caution.

In this scenario you may be setting a precedent, or expectations, for others whom you may need to acquire property from in the future. Further, those who may oppose the trail may chose to hold the development of a particular segment of trail ransom by asking an unreasonable price for the property. This option should be used sparingly, if at all, for key segments where there are no alternatives for the proposed trail alignment.

Step Four: Is a public agency willing to use eminent domain to acquire the property for public use upon payment of fair market value. This is a very controversial topic, a costly and time consuming process that should only be considered as a last resort.

The County, and each municipality has jurisdiction to consider, as a last resort, the use of eminent domain to acquire land for the proposed trail as it passes through the County / their municipality.

Before the use of eminent domain is taken off the table, the following must be considered. Without the use of condemnation, there is no alternative to voluntary acquisition. Individual property owners can ransom the project by demanding a price in excess of fair market value. The potential use of condemnation can itself avoid the use of condemnation by facilitating the private acquisition of the trail corridor.

Consider a situation in which private acquisition of the corridor is negotiated to determine who is holding out and then evaluate if there are alternative routes for the trail. The difficulty with this is a cost and timing issue. First, land owners are generally unwilling to

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negotiate the future sale or gift of a trail easement depending upon whether or not other parties may be willing to sell or donate trail easements through their property. This creates a disincentive for individuals to participate in voluntary transactions. Furthermore, some property owners may be unwilling to make a donation or sell at a nominal price if they are aware that other property owners have the option of hold out for an above market price.

Finally, what happens if two thirds of the corridor is acquired by means of voluntary transactions but the project cannot be completed due to opposition or hold outs by other property owners? Would the previous acquisitions be reconveyed back to those property owners? Do the owners who a sold trail easement return the money paid to them for that easement? Early in the history of the railroad industry, state legislatures understood that the only way to construct a rail line was to give railroads condemnation powers. Today, trail projects are no different and if local governments wish to reassemble abandoned railroad corridors, those corridors cannot be successfully reassembled without the willingness of governmental officials to use condemnation as the acquisition means of last resort.

Each governmental agency must weigh their desire of their community to have various segments of the proposed Smethport Trail System with the negative aspects of utilizing eminent domain.

In the end this is a difficult decision that may need to be considered by local municipalities and / or the county along the proposed trail system.

When property and / or easements are donated or acquired at below market values, that transaction should be discussed with potential funding agencies before the transaction takes place. In the case of PA DCNR, they may allow the value of the property / easement to be used as an in-kind match for a potential trail development grant. Typically, in-kind matches cannot occur before the contract date between PA DCNR and the grantee. However, in this circumstance PA DCNR may approve a request for retroactivity to allow the cost to be applied on a currently submitted or future grant application.

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Potential Roles of Public and Non-Public Agencies in Establishing Trails Although the management and operation of the proposed trail will be the responsibility of the agency created through the intergovernmental agreement, that agency will likely need to establish partnerships with various organizations that can provide specific expertise that may be needed. Based on the anticipated needs of implementing the proposed trail improvements, we recommend consideration be given to establishing partnerships with the following agencies and organizations: • Potato Creek Trail Association - As the current non-profit organization promoting the existing trails in the Smethport area, they are well established, and well suited to take the lead in the expansion of the trail system • McKean County Commissioners - to publicly promote the vision of the Smethport Trail System, to provide county resources to assist with the implementation of the trail, and to provide resources to assist in resolving obstacles to trail development • Smethport Chamber of Commerce - to conduct a Trail Town Assessment, and follow up recommendations and implementation strategies • PA Route 6 Heritage Alliance - to promote tourism, economic development opportunities, and assist with the coordination, facilitation, and implementation of bicycle, pedestrian, and trail improvements in association with the U.S. Route 6 corridor.

• Health Care Community - to promote physical fitness, a healthy life style, and to combat the obesity epidemic • McKean County Conservation District – Provide technical assistance with the implementation of Riparian Buffers, establishing trails, and developing the fishing, canoe and kayak accesses. Act as a local liaison with Department of Environmental Protection and the PA Fish & Boat Commission.

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• Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission - to encourage the enhancement of riparian buffers along Marvin and Potato Creeks and to acquire fishing and canoe / kayak access easement agreements along Marvin and Potato Creeks, and to fund the development of canoe and kayak access along Potato and Marvin Creeks • Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau - to promote the trail and offerings associated in and around the corridor • McKean County Planning Commission - to educate and work with local municipalities to enhance local land development and subdivision ordinances to promote sound land use in the Marvin and Potato Creek corridors • PennDOT - to develop a high quality pedestrian and bicycle routes within the State roadway network • Smethport Borough and Keating Township - to promote the vision of the Smethport Trail System, to provide resources to assist with the implementation of the trail, and to support the ongoing operations and maintenance of the trail corridor through the donation of in-kind services and donated materials • Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club - to partner in improving and maintaining the motorized shared use trail

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Areas for In-Kind Contributions Related to Trail Improvements Trail implementation projects can be ideally suited to maximize in-kind contributions if managed properly. Many trail users have professional abilities and / or construction skills they would be pleased to share as in inkind contribution to a specific project especially if their contribution can be matched through state and federal grant opportunities and / or foundation / corporate giving.

We recommend the existing Potato Creek Trail Association, a non-profit organization, be charged with the task of identifying those who can provide in-kind services and maintaining a contact list so those resources can be contacted at the appropriate time.

Further we recommend that local trail users be contacted to determine if they can assist in providing in-kind services during the trail implementation process. Specifically: • Attorney - to provide legal guidance and expertise in the preparation of the intergovernmental agreement and nonprofit organization establishment • Doctors - promote healthy life style, connected to health community, explore opportunities for funding from health community • Business Leaders - Initiate fund raising efforts in business community • Large Land Owners / Duffy Industries- Opportunities to donate land / easement for trail development, use value of land as in-kind match to cash grant opportunities, explore potential for in-kind services such as grading during construction, and provision of aggregate construction materials. The value of these services can be used as in-kind match towards cash grants that may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources • Local Historian - research and create interpretive signage

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Trail Development Standards Pedestrian, bicycle, equestrian, mountain bicycling, snowmobile and ATV trail facility guidelines should be jointly adopted by participating municipalities and all trail organizations to ensure consistency and quality in locating, designing, interpreting, and maintaining trail facilities.

Guidelines that we frequently consult include: • Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities, American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). - addresses shared use (multi-use) trails • Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) • Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets “Green Book,” AASHTO. • The Bicycle Compatibility Index: A Level of Service Concept, Implementation Manual, U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration.

• Recommendations for Accessibility Guidelines: Outdoor Developed Areas Final Report, U.S. Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (U.S. Access Board).

• Designing Sidewalks and Trails for Access: Part II of II: Best Practices Design Guide, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

• Selecting Roadway Design Treatments to Accommodate Bicycles, Federal Highway Administration.

• Guide for the Planning, Design, and Operation of Pedestrian Facilities, AASHTO. • Equestrian Design Guidebook for trails, Trailheads, and campgrounds, United States Department of Agriculture, U.S. Forest Service.

• Trail Solutions - IMBA’s Guide to Building Sweet Single Track, International Mountain Bicycling Association.

• Park Guidelines for Off-Highway Recreation Vehicles, National Off Highway Vehicle Council, George E. Fogg.

• The Pennsylvania Trail Design Manual for Off-Highway Recreational Vehicles, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

• So You Want to Build an Off-Highway Vehicle Facility? A Practical Guide to Planning and Development, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

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• Off Highway Motorcycle and ATV Trails Guidelines for Design, Construction, Maintenance and User Satisfaction, Joe Wernex.

• Trail Planning, Design, and Development Guidelines, Minnesota Department of Department of Natural Resources Trails and Waterways Division.

Further, the website for the North Central Pennsylvania Greenways, www.ncentralgreenway.com, provides a comprehensive ‘toolbox’ of resources. These resources link you to best practices which are often referenced by trail planning and design practitioners, in the following categories: Public Participation • National Park Service – Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program Non-Motorized Trail Resources • Rails to Trails Conservancy Trail Building Toolbox • National Trails Training Partnership – Resources and Library • International Mountain Bicycling Association – Trail Building Resources • International Mountain Bicycling Association – Liability and Lawsuits • USDA Forest Service – Trail Construction and Maintenance Handbook • USDA Forest Service – US Forest Service National Trail Drawings and Specifications Motorized Trail Resources • Pennsylvania Trail Design Manual for Off Highway Recreational Vehicles • National Off Highway Vehicle Council – Tools • National Off Highway Vehicle Council – Management Guidelines for OHV Recreation • American Council of Snowmobiles – Resources

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Water Trail Resources • Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission • Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network – Water Trail Toolbox Pedestrian and Bicycle Resources • PennDOT Pedestrian and Bicycle Resources • Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center Image Library • U.S. Department of Transportation Design Guidance Accommodating Bicycle and Pedestrian Travel: A Recommended Approach • U.S. Department of Transportation – Recreational Trails Program – Publications • Walking.org – The Complete Resource for Walking, Health, and Diet • • America Bikes • Bicyclinginfo.org – Bikability Checklist • Partnership for a Walkable America – Walkability Checklist Accessibility • U.S. Access Board – Draft Final Accessibility Guidelines for Outdoor Developed Areas • Safe Routes to Schools • Pennsylvania Safe Routes to Schools • National Safe Routes to Schools Environmental Ethics • Tread Lightly • Leave No Trace Site Development Resources • Sustainable Development • PennDOT Traffic Calming Handbook • Better Models for Development in Pennsylvania

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• Pennsylvania Standards for Residential Site Development • Active Living by Design Economic Development • Clarion River Recreation Assessment • Trail Towns – Capturing Trail Based Tourism, A Guide for Pennsylvania Communities • Pine Creek 2006 Rail Trail User Survey • Trail Utilization Study: Analysis of the trail systems within the Oil Heritage Region • Great Allegheny Passage Trail Town Impact Study Phase 1: Business Survey • Great Allegheny Passage Trail Town Impact Study Phase 2: Trail User Survey • Great Allegheny Passage Trail Town Impact Study • Rails to Trails Conservancy – Trail User Surveys and Economic Impact, A Comparison of trail user expenditures Pennsylvania Trail Advocates • • • • • • • •

Keystone Trails Association Pennsylvania State Snowmobile Association Pennsylvania Off-Highway Vehicle Association Pennsylvania Equine Council Pennsylvania Wilds PA Wilds Resource Center PA Wilds Design Guidelines Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Recreation and Conservation • Pennsylvania Greenways – Greenways Clearinghouse Database

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Shared-Use Path Pedestrian and bicycle facility guidelines and standards should be jointly adopted by participating municipalities and all trail organizations to ensure consistency and quality in locating, designing, interpreting, and maintaining the facilities.

These standards should be based on current guidelines established by the PennDOT Bicycle and Pedestrian Facility Checklist, American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the U.S. Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (U.S. Access Board), the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG), the U.S. Forest Service, the Student Conservation Association agencies and pedestrian and bicycle organizations.

Pedestrian and bicycle planning is in its infancy. The state and federal agencies responsible for developing these guidelines routinely revise these guidelines as required to increase user safety and efficiency, and to respond to data collected in post construction evaluation.

Therefore, the recommendations contained herein must be reviewed on a periodic basis, and be updated to reflect these changes. Current resources utilized in the development of these recommendations include: • Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities, American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO).

• Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) • Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets “Green Book,” AASHTO. • The Bicycle Compatibility Index: A Level of Service Concept, Implementation Manual, U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration.

• Recommendations for Accessibility Guidelines: Outdoor Developed Areas Final Report, U.S. Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (U.S. Access Board).

• Designing Sidewalks and Trails for Access: Part II of II: Best Practices Design Guide, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

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• Selecting Roadway Design Treatments to Accommodate Bicycles, Federal Highway Administration.

• Guide for the Planning, Design, and Operation of Pedestrian Facilities, AASHTO. There are times when exceptions to guidelines and standards may be deemed appropriate. These exceptions are typically required when they are necessitated by physical and environmental conditions, community desire, changing trends, intensity of use, and many other factors. Therefore they must be considered in light of site-specific issues.

Those municipalities through which the trail passes should officially incorporate the recommendations contained herein into their subdivision and land use ordinances where appropriate.

A shared use path is a facility that is typically removed from the vehicular transportation network, within it’s own right-of-way, not the vehicular right-of-way. As it’s name suggests many different types of users may be present on a shared use path. Users generally include walkers, joggers, bicyclists, and in-line skaters.

Shared Use Path Width and Clearance Requirements The AASHTO publication titled “Guidelines for the Development of Bicycle Facilities” recommends that two directional shared use paths be constructed with a minimum width of ten feet. Additionally, the guidelines state a minimum of a two foot wide graded area with a maximum slope of 1:6 should be maintained adjacent to both sides of the path. Where lateral obstructions; such as guide rails, utility poles, trees and walls; are present three feet of clearance from the object is recommended. When slopes greater than 1:3 are present it is recommended that a minimum of five feet be maintained between the edge of the path pavement and top of slope.

The minimum recommended vertical clearance to an obstruction is eight feet. However, the vertical clearance may need to be greater to accommodate maintenance and emergency vehicles. Further, uses such as snowmobile and equestrian use require greater vertical clearances, up to 12’.

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Shared Use Path Materials The path must be placed on stable, compacted soils to achieve structural stability. The Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission’s Center Dirt and Gravel Road Studies has conducted research on trail surfaces. Based on this research the Commission has prepared a trail mix specification that results in a stable, firm, and slip resistant trail surface. This compacted aggregate trail surface is considered to be an environmentally friendly alternative to an asphalt trail cross section for the following reasons: 1. The compacted aggregate trail has a higher rate of permeability than asphalt.

2. The compacted aggregate trail has greater texture, and therefore, reduces the velocity of water run off to a higher degree than asphalt.

In addition to these environmental incentives, a compacted aggregate trail is less expensive to install than its asphalt counterpart; and, a compacted aggregate trail is more forgiving to the user due to its resiliency under foot.

The following construction detail shows the make-up of the compacted aggregate trail cross section.

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Signage Generally, the following types of signs should be installed along shared-use paths: • Trail Access Point Signs: must invite path users, be attractive, and provide trail users with an overall summary of the trail • Mileage Markers: should be installed at one- half mile intervals along the path. Mile markers can assist emergency response personnel in locating path users in need of assistance • Wayfinding Signs: should be installed at appropriate locations along the path directing path users to cultural features beyond the trail corridor.

At a minimum, wayfinding signs should be placed to direct users to schools, parks, and the Township buildings.

• Historical / Interpretive Signs: should be installed to interpret points of interest. These can be historical or environmental in nature • Regulatory / Warning Signs: All regulatory signs installed along vehicular roadways shall comply with the requirements of Part II of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s “Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices”. Signs should only be placed where potential conflicts are not clear, or to emphasize the significance of a potential conflict.

Directional and route markers should be placed at all turns, at major intersections, and at intervals of approximately one-quarter mile along the route.

Care should be taken not to install too many signs. A conservative use of regulatory and warning signs is recommended, as these signs if used too frequently tend to loose their effectiveness. On the other hand, frequent display of route markers and directional signage is important to keep the user informed of his location and will not lessen their value.

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The design of signs must take into consideration durability, maintenance requirements, and replacement costs.

It is difficult to provide generalized recommendations for the treatment of intersections to accommodate pedestrian and bicycle facilities due to the degree of variability in vehicular traffic volumes, pedestrian and/or bicycle traffic volumes, crossing widths, and existing traffic controls. However, there are some general considerations for the design process, including: • provide positive guidance to pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists to ensure full awareness at intersections • minimize conflicts and channelized intersections to separate moving conflicts • unavoidable conflicts should occur at right angles • optimize sight triangles, ensure stopping, intersection crossing, and decision sign distances • conflicts should be clearly visible • provide adequate staging and refuge areas for pedestrians and bicyclists • avoid obstacles and highlight unavoidable obstacles • at signalized intersections, minimize trail user delay by minimizing traffic signal cycle time • provide adequate signal crossing time for pedestrians • provide easily accessible tactile/audible push buttons • design to assist the user in looking into the direction of the potential hazard Because of the low speed limits and rural character of many of the roads, most intersections can simply be controlled with additional signage, assigning the right of ways for pedestrian and bicycle users. Should the municipalities and/or the State upgrade the roadways to include right turn lanes and/or signalized intersections, the municipalities need to ensure the needs of the bicyclists and pedestrians are met in the initial design process.

Single Track Mountain Bike / Hiking Trails Consideration will be given to the level of trail development that is required based upon the location, use, and other factors. Some trails may be natural surface trails, while others may consist of more developed surfaces.

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We strongly recommend trails be designed in a sustainable manner following the International Mountain Bicycling Association’s (IMBA) five essential elements of sustainable trails. These include: 1. The Half Rule: A trail’s grade should not exceed the half grade of the hillside or sideslope that the trail traverses. If grade does exceed half of the sideslope, its considered a fall line trail and susceptible to erosion.

2. The Ten Percent Average Grade Guideline: Generally a trail with an average grade of 10% or less is most sustainable. This does not mean that all grades must be kept under 10%. Many sections of trail will have short steep sections greater than 10%, and some unique situations will allow average grades of more than 10%.

3. Maximum Sustainable Grade Trails: Maximum sustainable grade is the steepest section of trail that is more than ten feet in length. When designing trails, it is essential to determine early in the process the maximum grades the trail will be able to sustain given the local conditions. Variables that impact the maximum sustainable grade include: • • • • • • •

Soil Type Rock Annual Rainfall Amount Grade Reversals Type of Users Number of Users Level of Difficulty

4. Grade Reversals: A grade reversal is a spot at which a climbing trail levels out and then changes direction, dropping subtly for about 10 to 50 linear feet before rising again. This change in grade forces water to exit the trail at the low point before it can gain volume, velocity, and erosive power. Grade reversals as also known as dips, grade breaks, drainage dip, and rolling dip.

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5. Outslope: As the trail contours across a hillside, the downhill or outer edge of the trail tread should tilt slightly down and away from the high side, encouraging water to sheet flow across and off the trail.

Further, we recommend every effort be taken to avoid ten common trail building mistakes as summarized by IMBA. IMBA also notes the ten most common trail building mistakes, which should be avoided at all costs.

1. Not Getting Land Manager Approval: We know, we know: you just want to build trails. But believe us when we tell you that nothing not a single darned thing - more important before starting trail work than the approval of the land owner or manager. In our experience, a failure to secure permission is the single biggest cause of trail closures. When it comes to building trails, to ask for forgiveness is not better than to ask for permission.

2. Falling for the Fall Line: Put simply, fall line trails are erosion nightmares. They turbo-charge natural and user-created erosion, exposing rocks and roots and generally living short lives before becoming loose, wide, ecosystem-damaging disasters. To build trails that last, use the Half Rule: trail grade, or steepness, shouldn’t exceed half the grade, or steepness, of the hillside; and the 10 Percent Rule: overall trail grade should be 10 percent or less.

3. Guessing the Grade: Nobody, no matter how masterful their eye, can guess trail grades right every time. Trust us, we know. Sure, it’s fun to try, but use a clinometer to confirm the grade whenever you’re laying out trail - it’s worth a regiment of self-powered, Fantasia-style Pulaskis, because no amount of trail work can fix a trail built on an unsustainable grade. If you don’t have a clinometer, we highly recommend an investment in this indispensable tool.

4. Going Against the Flow: Not even race courses - which are sometimes designed with erratic flow to throw off a racer’s rhythm - should make this trail building faux pas. All trail builders should make “smooth transitions” their mantra. Bad flow, especially fast

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sections leading into sharp turns, is a primary cause of user conflict.

When you are building, think flow - it’s the key to an enjoyable trail.

5. Half Bench is Half Baked: The only time you should ever skimp on a fully bench cut trail is (1) when the sideslope is so steep - 80 percent or greater - that the backslope exceeds six feet in height, or (2) when your trail design forces you to build close to the downhill side of a large tree. In both cases, a proper crib wall should be built to support your partial bench, and, as in all trails, the tread should maintain a five to seven percent outslope.

6. The West Virginia Climbing Turn: Our friends in West Virginia affectionately gave this name to some of their steep, fall line turns, and while they’ve gotten away with it in a few locations because of the soil and user types, most fall line turns will erode badly. If you want your climbing turns to endure, build them on sideslopes with no steeper than a seven to 10 percent grade.

7. Building Houses of Straw: Using shoddy materials when building trail structures leaves you and others similarly vulnerable by reducing the structure’s safety and longevity. This opens the door to things like pain, guilt and even lawyers. Build it right. Keep the wolves at bay.

8. Finishing a Line Before Its Time: We heartily support on-the-trail training, but some new trail builders are so eager to keep building more! new! better! trails that they don’t devote enough time or care to each new trail section. Resist the temptation to move forward.

Don’t finish a line before its time, and always patch past mistakes.

9. Building a Pathway to Grandma’s House: This is what we call some trail builders’ obsession with lining trail with logs. A properly constructed trail shouldn’t need them. In fact, lining a trail with logs can trap water and increase erosion.

10. Ignoring Old Wounds: As mountain bikers we may think our scars are cool, but scars on the land left by closed trails are damaging wounds that need to heal. Always reclaim eroded areas with check

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dams - natural obstacles like logs or rocks that divert the flow of water and soil - and reclaim all closed trails with transplanted native vegetation that conceals the old corridor. Shine the spotlight on the great trails you’ve built, not the ugly scars that have been left behind.

Our philosophy for designing sustainable trails also takes into consideration that a trail system is much more than creating a route from point to point.

A trail system should be designed to create interest, spark the imagination, and create a sense of place. We will employ the techniques outlined below in planning and design trail systems:

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Sense of Highly Varied Environment Sharpened Experience of the Natural World A Varied, Enjoyable, and Safe Trail Experience Continuous Small-Scale Enjoyment and Flow Sustainability and Enjoyment From The Same Physical Features Anchors, Edges, Gateways, Playfulness, Safety, Efficiency, Harmony Extreme Experiences By Choice Loops and Choices Avoid Tempting Poor Trail Behavior Minimal Trail Maintenance Sense of Stewardship Trail Design for Minimal Erosion

Trail Access Point (Trailhead) Trail access point facilities should be provided in key locations where trail users are likely to enter the trail system, at intervals that are convenient to trail users, and consistent with protecting neighborhood privacy. Trail access point facilities are typically recommended at intervals of between five and eight miles. Clustering of trail facilities provides for ease of maintenance, user convenience, and minimal vandalism. Trail access facilities should be located in areas that are visible from adjacent roads.

This helps to provide basic security of the facilities.

Each access point opportunity should have sufficient parking to accommodate commuter cyclists and recreational cyclists who may drive to

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them to begin their journey. These areas should be well marked and should provide a graphic map showing where the trail user is in relationship to the overall trail network.

Recommended trail access point facilities amenities include: • Parking: We recommend that a minimum of ten parking spaces be provided for at each trail access point, this includes nine standard spaces and one accessible space.

• Toilets: Toilets are a necessary item and should be provided at all trail access points. They should be constructed of masonry and be connected to municipal sewer and water lines. If budget is a concern, one uni-sex unit can be provided. This is popular for families with children who require attention in the restroom.

Otherwise, one female and one stall should be provided. Regardless of the arrangement, the toilet facilities must be accessible / ADA compliant.

• Drinking Water: A cost effective frost-free design should be selected. Where municipal water is not available, a well and hand pump is recommended.

• Security Lighting: We recommend trail use be limited to daylight hours. However, we also recommend a minimum of one dawn to dusk security light be located at each trail access point. The lights should be protected by vandal resistant lexan shields. The light shall be located to illuminate the toilet and the parking areas. Where shelters are provided a second light should be considered.

• Bicycle Rack: It is important to choose bicycle racks based on their ability to securely retain a bicycle. In addition, consideration must be given to the potential damage that can be caused to the bicycle while it is in the rack. Bicycle racks must successfully secure the bike while protecting it from vandalism The preferred racks are those that secure the bicycle to the rack in two locations on the bicycle frame. The Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals activity promotes the utilization of proper bicycle racks. They note traditional bicycle racks, such as the comb or toast

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racks, are often referred to as wheel benders because of the ease with which one could damage the bicycle by bending the rim. Racks generally require a minimum depth of seventy-two inches, and are typically spaced a minimum of thirty inches apart. Where racks are separated by an aisle, the width of the aisle should be a minimum of forty-eight inches wide.

Characteristics of a Good Bike Rack 1. Do not bend wheels or damage other bicycle parts.

2. Accommodate high security U-shaped bicycle locks.

3. Accommodate locks securing frame and both wheels (preferably without removing the front wheel of the bike).

4. Do not impede or interfere with pedestrian traffic flow.

5. Are easily accessed from the street and protected from motor vehicles.

6. Are visible to passers-by to promote usage and enhance security.

7. Are covered where users will leave their bikes for a long time.

8. Have as few moving parks as possible.

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• Benches: The location of rest opportunities are crucial to ensuring a positive trail experience. Benches should have backrests to provide support, and at least one armrest to provide support as a user returns to the standing position, as required by ADA. We recommend benches be located at intervals of approximately ¼ mile along the trail. More frequent spacing may be desirable near popular trail access points.

• Picnic Shelters: Shall only be located at trail access points. The minimum size should be 20’ x 28’, housing four accessible picnic tables, to provide adequate cover from wind and rain. We recommend laminated wood beam shelters as they eliminate roosting opportunities for birds, and subsequently they are much easier to maintain.

• Air Station: Where a restroom building is provided we recommend an air station also be provided.

• Trash and Recycling Containers: Trash and recycling containers should only be located at trail access points, where volunteers, or municipal services agree to empty them on a regularly scheduled interval. We recommend a fifty-five gallon drum, with a removable plastic liner as they are most cost efficient. The drums can be painted with the trail color and logo. Given the population of black bears in the vicinity of the trail, we recommend bear safe lids be installed on the cans.

• Trail Information Kiosk: Information kiosks should be functional and provide enough room for an overall trail map and rules & regulations of the trail. The kiosk should provide a modest roof to eliminate glare, and protect the information from direct exposure to the elements. Maps and signs shall be manufactured from weather proof materials, designed for the intended use.

• Landscaping: Trail access points, and screening along the trail are important components not only to provide a finished appearance, but more importantly provide privacy screening, wildlife habitat, streamside buffers, erosion control, windbreaks, and to separate areas of different uses. Landscaping along the trail corridor, and

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at trail access points should be limited to the use of native plant species. When selecting trail amenities, details of construction should be of high quality, yet affordable, and of simple design reflective of the rail heritage of the area. The maintenance of the amenities must be considered during the design and site amenity selection process.

Bridges The existing structure over the tributary to Marvin Creek must be improved to address safety and liability concerns. The structure needs a solid deck, and railings need to be provided along the outside edges of the structure.

Where new bridges are proposed we recommend bridges be constructed of a single span when possible. Multiple spans require foundation support in the watercourse. These supports reduce flow volumes, and during flooding events debris lodged on the supports of multi-span bridges increase the likelihood of flooding.

Trail bridges are generally typically designed to accommodate between 6 ¼ tons to 10 tons, the weight of trail maintenance equipment. Therefore, we recommend fiberglass bridges as they offer the following advantages: • Lightweight: Components can be hand-carried into remote sites.

• Ease of installation: Park crews or volunteers, using common hand tools, install most of our spans, usually in one or two days.

• High Strength: Every span utilizes high strength fiberglass structural members.

• Attractive: Available in a variety of colors, and selection of railing options.

• Low Maintenance: Fiberglass does not rust or rot, and is not affected by termites or most chemicals. Fiberglass performs well in wet environments that attack typical bridge materials.

• Single span fiberglass bridges are available in widths up to ten feet, and up to one hundred feet in length. Fiberglass bridge spans can be installed on gabion basket foundations masked with boulders to provide a natural appearance. Decking shall consist of ACA treated lumber.

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Native Plants Native species are typically more tolerate of local conditions and require less maintenance and care. Native plants help create landscapes that provide wildlife habitat and reduce maintenance costs.

The following tables contain plants native to Pennsylvania that may be considered when final landscaping plans are prepared for future segments of the Smethport Trail System.

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Pennsylvania Native Herbaceous Perennials: Grasses Common Name

Scientific Name

Big bluestem

Andropogon gorardii

Bloom Period Jun-Sep

Height

Zone

3 - 5 ft

--

Jun-Oct

1 - 2 ft

5-6

Jun-Aug

2 - 4 ft

6

Jul-Sep

3 - 5 ft

5-6

Jul-Sep

2 - 4 ft

5-6

Aug-Sep

3 - 6 ft

--

Jul-Sep

2 - 4 ft

6

Aug-Sep

3 - 6 ft

--

Water

Light

Notes: Clump forming; attractive, with winter interest Lurid sedge

Carex lurida Notes: Wetland plant; interesting seeds

Bottlebrush grass

Elymus hystrix Notes: Grass which grows in shade

Riverbank wild-rye

Elymus riparius Notes: Good for streambank conditions

Virginia wild-rye

Elymus virginicus Notes: Grass which tolerates a wide range of conditions

Switch grass

Panicum virgatum Notes: Clump grass; can help control erosion

Little bluestem

Schizachyrium scoparium Notes: Clump grass; tolerates poor soil; winter interest

Indian grass

Sorghastrum nutans Notes: Clump grass; tall with beautiful flowers

Source: /www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/wildplant/grasses.aspx

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Pennsylvania Native Woody Plants: Small Trees and Shrubs Common Name

Scientific Name

Smooth alder

Alnus serrulata

Bloom Period Mar-Apr

Wildlife Value high

Height

Zone

6-10

6

Mar-May

high<

15-25

6

Mar-Jul intermediate

3-6

--

Water

Notes: Yellow catkins; multistemmed; needs wet soil Serviceberry

Amelanchier arborea

Black chokeberry

Notes: White flowers in spring; edible berries; fall color Aronia melanocarpa Notes: White flowers; multistemmed; berries; fall color

New Jersey tea

Ceanothus americanus

May-Sep intermediate

<3

6

Buttonbush

Notes: White flowers; multi-stemmed; tough; fixes nitrogen Cephalanthus occidentalis

Jun-Sep intermediate

6-15

6

Notes: White flowers; multistemmed; interesting fruit Redbud

Cercis canadensis

April

very low

20-35

--

May-Jun

very high

15-25

5-6

May-Jul

very high

6-12

6

Apr-Jun

very high

10-30

6

Sep-Nov

low

20-30

5-6

Jun-Jul

low

3-5

6

Notes: Purple flowers in spring; fixes nitrogen Alternate-leaved dogwood

Cornus alternifolia Notes: White flowers in early summer; blue berries

Silky dogwood

Cornus amomum Notes: White flowers in summer; blue berries; multistemmed

Flowering dogwood Cornus florida Notes: White brachts in spring; red berries; diseases Witch-hazel

Hamamelis virginiana Notes: Yellow flowers; multistemmed; fragrant; medicinal

Wild hydrangea

Hydrangea arborescens Notes: White blooms in midsummer; multi-stemmed

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Light

Pennsylvania Native Woody Plants: Small Trees and Shrubs (continued) Common Name

Scientific Name

Winterberry

Ilex verticillata

Bloom Period May-Jun

Wildlife Value high

Height

Zone

6-10

6

May-Jul

very low

7-15

6

Mar-May

high

6-12

6

May-Jul intermediate

5-10

6

Apr-May

high

15-25

6

Jun-Jul

very low

10-30

--

May-Jun

low

4-8

6

30-50

6

Water

Light

Notes: Showy berries in winter; multi-stemmed Mountain laurel

Kalmia latifolia Notes: White flowers; evergreen; multi-stemmed; PA state flower Lindera benzoin

Spicebush

Notes: Berries and foliage in fall; multi-stemmed; herbal uses Physocarpus opulifolius

Ninebark

Notes: Pink flowers; papery bark; multi-stemmed Prunus americana

Wild plum

Notes: White flowers; edible fruit; multi-stemmed Rhododendron maximum

Rosebay

Notes: Rose flowers; evergreen; multi-stemmed Pinxter-flower

Rhododendron periclymenoides Notes: White-pink flowers; multi-stemmed

Black willow

Salix nigra

Apr-May intermediate

Notes: Catkins in spring; needs wet to moist soil Silky willow

Salix sericea

May

intermediate

< 12

5-6

Jun-Jul

very high

5-15

5-6

May-Jun

very high

1-2

--

Notes: Catkins; needs wet conditions; multi-stemmed Elderberry

Sambucus canadensis Notes: White flowers; multistemmed; edible berries & flowers

Lowbush blueberry Vaccinium angustifolium Notes: White flowers; multistemmed; edible berries

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Pennsylvania Native Woody Plants: Small Trees and Shrubs (continued) Common Name

Scientific Name

Highbush blueberry Vaccinium corymbosum

Bloom Period May-Jun

Wildlife Value very high

Height

Zone

6-12

--

May-Jun intermediate

4-6

5-6

May-Jun

very high

3-15

--

July

high

10-40

--

Wildlife Value

Height

Zone

Water

Light

Water

Light

Notes: White flowers; multistemmed; edible berries; fall colors Maple-leaved viburnum

Viburnum acerifolium Notes: White flowers; multistemmed; edible berries; fall color

Arrow-wood

Viburnum recognitum Notes: White flowers in late spring; multi-stemmed

Virginia creeper

Parthenocissus quinquefolia

Source: /www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/wildplant/grasses.aspx

Pennsylvania Native Woody Plants: Medium and Large Trees Common Name

Scientific Name

Red maple

Acer rubrum

Bloom Period

Mar-Apr very high

40-60 ft

6-May

Apr-May very high

60-75 ft

6-May

5

Notes: Red flowers; adaptable; fall color Sugar maple

Acer saccharum Notes: Yellow flowers in spring; fall color; maple syrup

Yellow birch

Betula alleghaniensis Notes: Catkins in winter

Apr-May very high

60-80 ft

Black birch

Betula lenta Notes: Catkins in winter

Apr-May very high

45-55 ft

--

River birch

Betula nigra

Apr-May very high

60-80 ft

--

Apr-May high

50-70 ft

6-May

Fraxinus americana Apr-May intermediate 50-80 ft Notes: Fast growth; fall color

6

Notes: Catkins; striking bark; grows in eastern & central PA American beech

Fagus grandifolia Notes: Beautiful tree; edible nuts; attractive bark

White ash

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Pennsylvania Native Woody Plants: Medium and Large Trees (continued) Common Name

Scientific Name

Bloom Period

Wildlife Value

Height

Green ash

Fraxinus pennsylvanica Apr-May intermediate 30-50 ft Notes: Fast growth; fall color

Tulip poplar

Liriodendron tulipfera

Zone

Water

Light

--

intermediate 75-100 ft

6

Notes: Green flowers in early summer; fast growth Black-gum

Nyssa sylvatica Apr-May high Notes: Outstanding fall color

30-60 ft

6

Eastern white pine

Pinus strobus Notes: Evergreen conifer

50-80 ft

6-May

Sycamore

Platanus occidentalis

very high Apr-May low

75-100 ft --

Notes: Showy bark; drops fruits White Oak

Quercus alba Mar-Jun very high Notes: Edible nuts; majestic

50-100 ft

6

Chestnut Oak

Quercus montana

May-Jun very high

40-75 ft

6

Apr-May very high

60-70 ft

6

Apr-May very high

60-80 ft

6-May

April

30-50 ft

6

60-80 ft

6-May

40-70 ft

6-May

Notes: Fall color; nuts attractive to wildlife Quercus palustris

Pin Oak

Notes: Common ornamental street trees; fall color Quercus rubra

Red Oak

Notes: Hardy and long-lived tree; fall color Sassafras albidum

Sassafras

high

Notes: Edible and medicinal uses; fall color Tilia americana

Basswood

May-Jun very low

Notes: Flowers aromatic, with herbal uses; multiple trunks Canada hemlock

Tsuga canadensis

high

Notes: Evergreen conifer; PA state tree

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Cattle Guards During the course of conducting site visits, the farmer who leases a portion of the County Complex for agricultural purposes indicated he was frustrated by the fact that ATV and bicyclists tend to leave the cattle gates on the rail corridor open. This frequently occurs when his cattle are in the pasture and therefore the cattle escape from the pasture and the farmer is called to round up his herd. He indicated that it is a problem in the spring, summer, and fall, as in the winter the cattle are pastured elsewhere.

To prevent this from occurring we recommend cattle guards / cattle grids be installed across a portion of the trail corridor, where cattle enter and exit the pastures, the remaining portion of the width should include a swing gate. This will allow equestrian riders to continue along the trail by passing through the swing gate as the horses will not be able to pass over the cattle gate. Equestrian riders understand the need to close the gate upon passing through, whereas trail users such as hikers, bicyclists, and ATV riders do not.

A cattle guard or cattle grid is a type of obstacle used to prevent hooved animals, such as sheep or cows, from passing along a road which penetrates the fencing surrounding an enclosed piece of land. It consists of a depression in the road covered by a transverse grid of bars or tubes, normally made of metal and firmly fixed to the ground on either side of the depression, such that the gaps between them are wide enough for animalsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; legs to fall through, but sufficiently narrow not to impede a wheeled

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vehicle. They rely for their effect (of barring passage to animals but not to wheeled vehicles) upon animalsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; reluctance to set foot upon them.

They are common throughout the Western United States and Canada, particularly on BLM and Forest Service land. While these barriers are usually effective, they can fail due to ingenious animals. Some animals, particularly wildlife, can jump across them, and animals with particularly large feet, such as American bison or even particularly large bovine bulls, can walk across them without slipping between the bars. In areas with heavy snowfall and long periods without a thaw, snow can fill up under a grid and allow animals to walk across it.

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management, and the U.S. Forest Service have standard details for cattle guards. In England cattle guards are also being used on trails. The following detail was developed by the City of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, www.camcycle.org.uk/resources/ cattlegrids.

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Many cycle routes within Cambridge cross commons which are grazed by beef cattle all the way up to finishing weight. For the last 10 years the Local Authority has installed its own design of cattle grid on these routes, with around 30 installations now in place. The narrower spacing of the bars make them comfortable to use and particularly suitable for use on cycle routes. Experience has shown that the grids create an effective stock-proof barrier and there have been no reported incidents with cattle.

Use of grids has been one of the most popular innovations made in Cambridge. While there have been some minor problems with human injury, these occur very infrequently and have been much reduced by recent modifications. Most problems used to involve slipping on the bars when wet. In view of this, good design involves, wherever possible, not putting grids where cyclists are turning or braking. Similarly, designers should avoid locating grids where cyclists might need to stop - a small child might put a foot down between the bars. Good practice is therefore to provide a swing gated pedestrian bypass and to give a space where a cyclist can stop clear of the grid itself. That said, in practice most adults tend to avoid the pedestrian bypass and gingerly walk over the grid - even runners do so!

One very successful modification has been to replace the plain bars with threaded rod. This does not shred tires (the galvanizing seems to blunt the edges), but gives a big improvement to the purchase given to the bike wheel. The Council get far fewer complaints since adopting this feature and recommend its use.

We recommend McKean County experiment with developing such a solution along the trail corridor through the County Complex..

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McKean County Complex Master Plan Recommendations The master plan for the McKean County Complex reflects the desire of the community to: • Preserve and enhance the County Poor Farm Buildings • Provide additional parking to meet current and future needs of the County Offices located on the property • Create an environmental / agriculture education and tourism center, demonstration areas and an interpretive trail; • Conservation of Marvin Creek by establishing and enhancing the stream’s riparian buffer, providing fishing / canoe / kayak access; • Environmental education and interpretation of the value of stormwater management best practices, and streamside riparian habitat; • Preservation of wooded areas and development of walking, hiking, and single track mountain bike trails; • Improvements to the existing rail trail • Best Management Practices (BMP’s) for agricultural uses adjacent to Marvin Creek.

The recommendations presented herein have been developed to achieve these goals.

The McKean County Complex serves several important functions.

First, it is utilized by the County to provide valuable space for functions essential to governing the County. Although the McKean County Courthouse is located on Main Street, in Smethport’s business district, the necessary expansion of County government over the past 100 years has required additional office space to be established. Since the Courthouse had reached capacity, the County looked to the Poor Farm land to accommodate the growth of the County government. Therefore, the County has constructed a number of office buildings and the County Jail on the McKean County Complex property.

Second, it is the desire of the County to promote agriculture, sustainability, and agriculture / stormwater management best management practices so

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McKean County residents can see first-hand the benefits, and practical applications of these practices that can be implemented on private land throughout McKean County.

Third, the County recognizes the significance of conserving the sensitive natural resources associated with the site for conservation and recreation purposes.

It is this context in which the master plan and resulting recommendations have been developed.

County Government Facility Improvements County Poor Farm Building Recommendations The County Complex was originally established as the County Poor Farm, with the following structures which were constructed circa 1884: - Female Residence: Currently housing offices of the Bowman Health Center - Kitchen / Dining Hall - Poor Farm Superintendent’s Residence: Currently housing the offices of the Penn State Cooperative Extension - Poor Farm Male Residence: Currently housing the county’s Planning Commission, Conservation District, Economic Development and Office of Aging offices - Poor Farm Cemetery - located near the center of the property, behind the Poor Farm buildings, and across Marvin Creek. The cemetery is approximately 150’ x 200’ in size

The Poor Farm buildings have inherent value to the County, both as

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handsome, well-built structures already in hand and as repositories of communal memory. We strongly advise against demolition of the brick structures, an act that would likely be unpopular with the community as well as creating difficulties with the State and Federal governments, which would examine closely the funding of any improvements associated with the act. Rather, we recommend the County prepare and submit a National Register of Historic Places nomination application with the goal of having the buildings listed on the National Register.

Furthermore, Barn C (the easternmost barn location of the property) is appears to be an example of either of two unusual Pennsylvania barn types, as codified by Robert F. Ensminger in his book The Pennsylvania Barn: Its Origin, Evolution, and Distribution in North America. It could be categorized as a modified example of either a “Gable-Ramp Standard Barn” or as a “Front-Shed (Three-Gable) Barn.” Both of these types are rare and distinctive, and would likely justify National Register eligibility for Barn C

The process is initiated through the Pennsylvania Historic Museum Commission’s (PHMC) Bureau for Historic Preservation (BHP) is part of PHMC and serves as the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).

Nomination applications and forms can be downloaded from PHMC’s website.

As a group, the Poor Farm buildings, Barn C, and the Poor Farm Cemetery may qualify for the establishment of a National Register Historic District.

Improvements to the exterior of the Poor Farm buildings should be

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carefully completed within the historical context of the buildings, in order to retain their historical significance and value. Listing the buildings on the National Register for Historic Places the buildings will provide some protection of the structures when state and federal funds are used for improving the buildings.

County Complex Parking Enhancements Parking is at a premium at the County Complex. Often there are very few or no parking spaces available for visitors to the county offices.

Further, as noted earlier, parking in front of the Poor Farm Buildings impedes the aesthetics of the fine example of victorian gothic architecture contained in re Poor Farm buildings, and traffic flow is awkward, and at times, congested in and around the Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s E911 center. Therefore, we recommend the following improvements to parking and vehicular circulation: â&#x20AC;˘ Expand the number of parking spaces by 40, for a total of approximately 130 spaces, to meet the current needs of the County offices located in this area of the property, areas of proposed parking expansion include: - double loaded parking bay between E911 and CYS Builidngs (north) and Barn B (south), extending behind Barn C, provide minimum 6 accessible parking spaces, construct covered roof over double loaded parking bay immediately north of E911 Building to meet County and Local first responders needs - single loaded parking bay east of Barn C - single loaded parking bay immediately west of E911 building - double loaded parking bays north of Poor Farm Male Residence Hall, and north of Poor Farm Kitchen and Dining Room Building - double loaded lot immediately west of Poor Farm Female Residence, which is immediately east of Sena Kean Entrance Drive - eliminate central U.S. Route 6 access drive, and use Sena Kean Manor access drive as a shared access, as well as existing access drive southeast of CYS Building - small parking area east of Barn B to accommodate fishing / canoe / kayak access and sledding hill needs

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â&#x20AC;˘ Reconfigure existing and proposed parking lots to re-establish an open lawn area in front of the Poor Farm Buildings to permit unobstructed view from U.S. Route 6 of the Victorian Gothic architecture â&#x20AC;˘ Utilize green space in front of and around Poor Farm Buildings to control stormwater from roof and parking lot stormwater be establishing infiltration beds and rain gardens.

Proposed Building Improvements - McKean County Domestic Relations Building Near the completion of this planning process, the County identified and secured funding for the construction of a County Domestic Relations Building. This office an associated parking is proposed to be located adjacent to (west) of the McKean County Jail. Based on the analysis completed in the master planning process, this use is acceptable for this location of the property. Therefore, the master plan will reflect the addition of this building.

Proposed / Future Building Improvements - Agriculture, Environment, History, and Cultural Tourism Center During the course of the public input and the study committee input discussion focused on developing programs and facilities to expand upon the Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s existing agriculture, history, and cultural offerings by converting Barn C, into a multi-purpose center which can showcase, serve as a basis for operation, and provide retail space for local artisans, farmers, and home based businesses. Given the historic aspects of the barn, we recommend a feasibility study be conducted to explore the adaptive reuse of the barn in an architecturally appropriate manner. Purposed uses and programming of this building should be further explored through the feasibility study process. Ideas initially proposed include: Economic Development and Retail Opportunities 1. Farmers market / fair trade center 2. Food matrix kitchen and sales 3. Community supported agricultural production 4. Commercial production kitchen for home-based businesses 5. Local forest / farm fresh produce sales 6. Local organic produce sales

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7. Locally raised organic meat and poultry sales 8. PA Artisan trail gallery 9. Dinner theater 10. Creamery 11. Local winery Satellite Sales 12. Snowmobile stop, warming opportunity, light snacks, coffee, pastries Agricultural and Environmental Education Opportunities 1. Stormwater management best practices and demonstration projects 2. Stream bank stabilization demonstration projects 3. Riparian buffer demonstration projects 4. Environmental education center and classroom 5. Master gardener programs History and Culture 1. Educational Exhibits on the History of McKean County Poor Farm, McKean County Courthouse, and McKean County Jail - Local Lore and Legend, McKean Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Infamous and Famous Citizens 2. Promote walking / biking tours of Smethportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Historic Mansion District, and other historic destinations in town through interpretive displays 3. Seasonal history exhibits 4. Retail Book Sales for books based on local history Recreation Opportunities 1. Promote land based trails (non-motorized, motorized, and equestrian) system in McKean County 2. Promote canoeing / kayaking of Marvin and Potato Creeks 3. Promote fishing of Marvin and Potato Creeks, provide accessible opportunities for fishing Bicycle rentals 4. Canoe / kayak rentals

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Poor Farm Cemetery - access, seating ornamental fencing, & interpretive improvements

Single Track Mountain Bike and Hiking Trails (4.1 miles) Shared Use Motorized, Hiking, and Biking Trail (0.7 miles through property) Abandoned Oil Wells - 6-8 wells, plug

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- Existing Bridge to prohibit vehicular traffic

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Agricultural, Historical, Cultural Tourism Center - Proposed building addition and conversion of existing barn into exhibit / store space

U.S. Route 6

Note: Provide one accessible parking space per every twenty-five parking spaces.

Proposed County Domestic Relations Building

- Master Plan

County Jail - Proposed barn for agricutural equipment

345 Acres, owned by McKean County Commissioners

County Offices Senior Care Facility - Proposed food gardens and orchard

- Proposed reorganization of parking - Approximately 194 spaces

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Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

Agriculture, Sustainability, and Stormwater Best Management Practices Agricultural Production Agricultural production is important to the economy of McKean County.

The McKean County Commissioners desire to promote agricultural production by continuing to provide and promote sustainable agricultural activities on the McKean County Complex property. This understood, it is also important for the Commissioners to enforce the terms and conditions of lease agreements with those leasing County land. Therefore, we make the following recommendations with respect to agricultural production uses of the county land: 1. Promote sustainable agricultural production by implementing no till techniques, use of organize fertilizers and pesticides, integrated pest management, sustainable manure management, pasture and crop rotation, etc.

2. Continue practice of utilizing work-release prisoners at the McKean County Jail to operate and maintain corn fields near McKean County Jail.

3. Promote residential vegetable and flowering gardening by establishing a demonstration garden east of the proposed Agriculture, Environment, History, and Cultural Tourism Center 4. Construct streamside fencing to control livestock access to Marvin Creek, fencing must be suitable to permit angler access to stream.

5. Enhance, the existing riparian buffer pasture with native plants and institute pasture rotation program for riparian buffer pasture to allow for regeneration of pasture vegetation.

6. Stabilize and reinforce existing bridge over Marvin Creek for continued agricultural and trail access use.

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7. Construct ford on downstream (western side) of bridge to permit crossing stream to access northern portion of the property with heavy equipment.

8. On an annual basis conduct a desktop analysis to determine if the leased acreage requirements are not being exceeded - if they are meet with lease to discuss complying with the lease requirements Sustainability and Stormwater Best Management Practices Sustainability and stormwater best management practices often go hand-in-hand. Non-structural best management practices are the first line of defense, and typically address water quality improvement better than their structural counterparts. We recommend a series of best management practices be implemented over the property not only to address the stormwater management needs of the property, but to also demonstrate how these elements can be utilized elsewhere within McKean County.

Riparian (Streamside) Buffers As identified in the Analysis section, the existing streamside buffers along Marvin Creek, as it flows through the McKean County Complex, are limited to those areas which cannot be mowed or tilled. In many locations mowing or tilling occurs right up to the bank of the stream.

The portion of Marvin Creek that extends through the property is approximately 4,200 feet in length. Of that the first 800 feet flowing into the property from the west have a forested buffer that extends well beyond the typical minimum distances recommended. The remaining length of the stream, through the property, have streamside buffers that range from zero feet to 150 feet in width.

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Recommended Streamside Buffer Width 0’

50’

100’

150’

200’

250’

300’

Bank Stabilization Fisheries Habitat Nutrient Removal Sediment Control Flood Control Wildlife Habitat

Recognizing the County’s desire to maintain suitable portions of the property for agricultural use, while providing an acceptable riparian buffer, we recognize the goal of establishing a riparian buffer with a three hundred feet width may present a challenge. That said, we do recommend that a buffer, approximately three hundred feet in width be established in the southern side of Marvin Creek. That can be easily achieved as this portion of the property is within the one hundred year flood plain, therefore limiting many other types of development.

Native Riparian Buffer Species of Pennsylvania Trees American Beech Black Willow Red Maple Sweetgum

Common Pawpaw Eastern Sycamore River Birch Tulip Poplar

Common Persimmon Green Ash Silver Maple Yellow Birch

Black Gum Pin Oak Swamp White Oak

Black Chokeberry Red Osier Dogwood

Buttonbush Silky Dogwood

Common Elderberry Spicebush

Black-Eyed Susan Common Milkweed Joe Pye Weed New York Ironweed

Blue Flag Iris Cupplant Little Bluestem Riverbank Wild Rye

Blue Vervain Fox Sedge Lurid Sedge Swamp Milkweed

Shrubs Arrowwood Red Chokeberry Winterberry Grasses and Wildflowers Big Bluestem Cardinal Flower Indian Grass New England Aster Switchgrass

Recognizing Marvin Creek is a stocked cold water fishery, we recommend achieving the largest riparian buffer possible.

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North of Marvin Creek we recommend the riparian buffer be extended to the former railroad grade which parallels the stream through this property.

The railroad bed is elevated and graded, providing a man-made barrier to work to. Currently this area is being utilized by the leasee as pasture for his herd of cattle. This recommendation should provide a minimum of thirty-five feet of buffer, and more in most cases, between the stream and the existing railroad bed. Thirty-five feet is the minimum requirement for many funding sources.

We recommend this streamside pasture be limited to approximately two thousand feet (one half the streamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distance as it travels through the site). Further, instead of having one large pasture, we recommend it be subdivided into two or three smaller pastures. This will allow for rotation of the pastures as necessary to allow re-establishment /re-growth of vegetation on those pastures which are not currently being used.

Fencing encloses or divides an area with a suitable permanent structure that acts as a barrier to livestock or people. The type of fence selected depends on the site and livestock. The most economical option is a singleor double strand high-tensile electric fence. Construction details for typical streamside livestock fences are available from the National Resources Conservation Services.

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However, maintenance of electric fences can be time consuming, since vegetation below the fence needs to be mowed periodically to prevent the fence from shorting.

Another option is to use barbed wire or double-strand smooth wire. A barbed-wire or double strand smooth-wire fence is more permanent and only requires periodic inspection and maintenance.

High-tensile nonelectric fences may be appropriate as a permanent fence but require more wire than barbedwire fences. High-tensile nonelectric fences are also friendlier to livestock and wildlife.

Woven wire fences are not usually a good choice for riparian fencing. Woven wire can trap debris and is likely to be damaged by flooding.

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ier to livest ock, Purp wildl ose ife, or This jo resour b sheet is be ap ce conser provided va as pl wildl ied to co tion plan a compo nt if . ne grazin e movem ain and co This prac nt of a en ti grazin g system, t, facilita ntrol live ce may st te pr unsafe g livestoc otect sens a prescr ock and ibed itive areas. k, and to elimin areas from concer ate ac Cond cess to it practi n. Conserv This ions wher ces, gr at pr azing ion plan fence actice may e Practic schedu maps Barbe e Ap is need be us show le, ot d wir p an li ed ed d es in co her re g e fenc on to levant the approx e is no where ntainmen control ac any area Gener t of inform im t reco w pe ce mmen ation, ate fence ople safe livestock ss, movemhere a All fe al Criteri ty an ded fo loca an and ad en nce co a r hors dition tion, com d movem d wildlife t nstruc and Spec es and al p ent . if le tion sh specif icatio Fence icatio mentary co is of ns al l L co ns may mply nserva Fence ine Clear w ti be it h fede includ on along lines will ing ra ed l, be clea . state, except stream ba and lo re as requ nks wil d of brus cal fe ncing ired fo l be held h and tr codes. ee r stre Fenci am cr to a minim s; gullies Pract ng ice L ossing and st Const materia um an ifespa ls s. ee ru d no n is 20 hardw ction sh shall be vegeta p banks all of are w years. tion m may re ill be be perfor a quality qu ay be m an new, remov ire gradin Line galvan ed in a m d durabi g. Cle ed wit Post li an ty iz ar ne ed that m hin th ing Maxim r that mater e ee m bu u ia ts ee m l. ffer ar th ts the ground spacin ea, intend e intended g betw . ed m een li anagemmanagem ne po Suita sts is ent ob ent obje bl 16.5 ctives jectiv 3½” e line po feet. . e. in diam sts Wire All w treate and eter oode d n line ground pine or ot wooden po posts contac her woo sts of bl shall be se ack t. d of eq t at le ual li locust, re as fe an t 30” d stre d cedar (m into th ngth. e Press ostly hear ure tr twoo Job Sh d) eatm ent sh , redwoo (382 eet – Fe d, an all m a) nce (B d pres eet th arbe d Wire e su requir re ) emen ts for

Fencing should be placed as far from the stream as possible. The benefits of fencing greatly increase with wider corridors of riparian vegetation. Fences placed too close to streams are frequently damaged from high stream flow and benefits are minimized.

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The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has jurisdiction over waters of the Commonwealth, therefore a pre-design consultation with regional DEP representative is strongly encouraged before designing and permitting livestock fencing that occurs within fifty feet of the streamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top of banks.

Unrestricted grazing removes desirable vegetation, compacts soil, and can cause bank erosion. Ground cover is an essential component of riparian areas. Riparian vegetation provides erosion control from runoff and offers important habitat for wildlife. Without ground cover, runoff rates increase and infiltration is reduced.

Riparian areas with little or no ground cover also lose their ability to trap and filter out sediments, nutrients, and bacteria. The end result will be erosion and water quality problems.

Restricted grazing limits damage to seedlings and ground cover by reducing browse, rubbing, and effects of soil compaction. Less damage to vegetation means a healthier understory and a more effective riparian buffer.

Riparian areas are often used as a water source for livestock. If alternative water sources are not available, it is difficult to eliminate livestock from riparian areas.

Fencing can maintain access areas for watering livestock while allowing the rest of the riparian zone to remain undisturbed. Access areas should be selected carefully where erosion wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be a problem. If there are grazing lands located on either side of the stream, stream crossings for livestock can also be constructed in a manner that will cause minimal disturbance.

Since it is difficult to manage riparian areas included in extremely large acreages of grazing land, fencing can be used to subdivide grazing land into smaller management units. This allows uplands and riparian areas to be more intensively managed.

If riparian areas are included in grazing units, management will be important for them to remain healthy. With added management efforts, riparian areas can be grazed with little impact to their condition.

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Management decisions need to address both uplands and riparian areas.

Riparian areas are difficult to manage properly if there are problems with the uplands. Grazing riparian areas can be done in a manner that maintains healthy vegetation and produces suitable forage for livestock. Timing of grazing is an important factor in riparian area management. Riparian pastures should be grazed when the palatability of grass and forbs species in the uplands are greater than the palatability of woody species.

Weather conditions must be considered when deciding when to graze riparian areas. Livestock occupy riparian areas for longer periods of time on hot summer days and seek protection from the wind on cold days. This leads to more forage consumption and mechanical damage to the vegetation from trampling. To alleviate these problems, establish windbreaks and alternative water sources, wells or solar pumps, away from the riparian area. Salt and mineral blocks should also be moved away from riparian areas.

If access points and stream crossings are included when fencing riparian areas they should be located in areas and constructed to minimize disturbance to the stream. The streambed and banks should be stable, preferably composed of bedrock and/or large rocks that are not easily moved by fast water.

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The grade of the crossing should be stable. The crossing should not interfere with the waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flow or aquatic life in the stream channel.

Fencing used for stream crossings and access points should be able to withstand high flows and allow the passage of debris that may come downstream with high flow events.

Class of livestock is also important from the riparian management prospective. Goats and sheep are generally not compatible with conserving riparian areas. They prefer woody species much more than cattle do.

Farm Bridge over Marvin Creek The existing farm bridge is in poor condition and its load rating is unknown but appears to be structural deficient given it age (circa 1900). If its structural integrity is unknown, we recommend the bridge be barricaded immediately to prevent vehicular or pedestrian access to it.

We recommend the McKean County Commissioners have a PennDOT certified structural inspection and evaluation of the bridge completed. Upon receiving the results of the evaluation, we recommend the Commissioners take the recommended course of action to provide for the crossing of Marvin Creek.

Currently this bridge provides the only access from the County facilities on the southern side of Marvin Creek to the northern side of Marvin Creek.

Therefore, it is critical to act expeditiously to ensure vehicular access across the stream.

Ford Crossing It is occasionally necessary to transport and / or drive heavy equipment to the portion of the property north of Marvin Creek. Therefore, we recommend a ford crossing be constructed adjacent to the bridge, on the downstream side. Crossing the stream in this location should be limited to periods of low water flow.

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The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has jurisdiction over waters of the Commonwealth, therefore a pre-design consultation with regional DEP representative is strongly encouraged before designing and permitting this activity.

Porous Pavements When implementing the recommendations related to adding and reconfiguring the parking areas surrounding the County facilities, we recommend consideration be given to constructing the new parking areas with porous asphalt and / or concrete parking grids. These products provide for infiltration of stormwater runoff and assist in meeting meet the requirements for infiltrating the two year storm.

Porous pavements require a minimum of two feet of permeable soils above bedrock, and should not be constructed in soils with high water tables.

Properly engineered, porous pavements can accommodate high traffic loads.

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In low traffic and overflow parking areas porous alternatives such as the concrete parking grids, or gravel filled geogrids should be considered. It is recommended that porous pavements be limited to those areas whose slope is five percent or less.

Trail Development Shared use rail trail, equestrian trails, hiking trails, and single track mountain bicycle trails should be designed and constructed in accordance with the standards referenced earlier, in the Smethport Trail System recommendations.

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Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

Abandoned Oil Wells We recommend the McKean County Commissioners contact the Northwest Region of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and request that the abandoned oil wells located on the County Complex property be declared orphaned wells and be placed on the list of wells to be capped with funding from the Orphan Well Plugging Program.

Several wells were identified during the field view, and the county’s leasee indicates there are likely six to twelve located on the eastern portion of the property north of Marvin Creek.

In 1992 the legislature amended the Oil and Gas Act to allow certain oil or gas wells abandoned before April 1985 to be classified as “orphan” wells.

That amendment also gave DEP the authority to plug orphan wells, and created a modest means of funding this work. Landowners, leaseholders and oil and gas operators are thus relieved from the responsibility to plug orphan wells on their properties if they received no “economic benefit” from the well after April 1979.

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DEPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bureau of Oil and Gas Management oversees the Orphan Well Program to locate and plug orphan wells. To date (April 2007), about 8,700 abandoned wells have been reported and classified as orphan wells.

The Orphan Well Plugging Fund is a separate account in the state treasury which provides money for the Orphan Well Program. The money in this fund comes from surcharges on permit application fees for new oil and gas wells. Taxpayers do not finance the Orphan Well Plugging Fund; the oil and gas industry does. The average plugging cost is currently approximately $10,000 per well. Plugging costs cannot be easily be determined because they are primarily based on the depth of the well.

Agriculture, Environmental, Historical and Cultural Interpretation In addition to the interior exhibits recommended in the proposed Agriculture, Environment, History, and Cultural Tourism Center we recommend a series of exterior interpretive signs be designed, fabricated and installed at strategic locations throughout the property. These signs can include: - - - - - - -

History of the McKean County Poor Farm Local Legend and Lore of the Poor Farm Cemetery Railroad and Industry of McKean County 19th Century Oil Drilling in McKean County Sustainable Agriculture Best Management Practices Sustainable Stormwater Best Management Practices Streamside Buffers and their Significance to Water Quality, Flora, and Fauna - Native Plants of McKean County

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SETTLEMENT

5/26/05

1:08 PM

Riverfrontiers

Page 1

Stories of Beaver County its Rivers

ROCHESTER

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EARLY SETTLEMENT AT THE HIGH POINT of THE OHIO

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A R LY I N D I A N T R I B E S were known to have moved through this area, but it wasn’t until the 1700s that the first settlers made permanent homes here — where the Ohio and Beaver rivers meet.

In 1753, 21 year-old George Washington volunteered for a dangerous mission to locate and confront the French who were occupying areas near Erie. He came to Logstown (near present-day Ambridge) to counsel with the local Indians, learn the location and size of the French outposts and arrange an escort of Indian allies

to assure safe passage. This mission led to Washington’s first battle at Fort Necessity in 1754 — the first hostilities of the French and Indian War. Look for “Washington’s Trail” signs that mark the route of Washington’s journey in Western Pennsylvania. Washington also passed by Rochester in 1770 while inspecting his Ohio Valley land holdings.

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Washington Visits Beaver County

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DISCOVERY QUESTION

Reno, Lacock, Irvin, Pinney — sound familiar? Where have you seen these names of early settlers around town?

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Above: In colonial times six major trails crossed Beaver County. The Great Path passed Rochester on the way to Detroit.

The Logstown Path was used by George Washington in 1753. Many of these routes became the roadways we drive on today.

Right: The book cover of Washington’s published journal from 1754.

Remains of an Indian village, including burial grounds and a variety of ornaments, tools, and fragments, were uncovered near where you are standing. This was a good location to make a home since it was close to sources for fish and game. The Indian village was also situated along an important trail known as the “Great Path” — a mostly flat route which linked Pittsburgh to the Detroit area. Known as “Logan’s Town” (named for Indian Chief Logan who had a hunting lodge here), the village became an important crossroads and an ideal gathering spot for local Indian tribes of the day.

By 1830, Rochester’s canal and At that time, the few crossroads status attracted more white men in this area settlers, including wealthy Ovid north of the Ohio Pinney, who bought much land River were typically near here. Before he left Rochester transient — mostly in 1857, he had sold or donated explorers, missionalmost all of his of land. The aries, traders, hunters Masonic Temple, Fountain Park and trappers who were and several area churches are built just passing through or on land given by Ovid Pinney. navigating the waterRochester’s Masonic ways. This area remained largely Temple on Rhode Island Prior to 1837, this area had many unsettled by whites until the 1790’s Avenue as it looked in names: Mingo Town, Logan’s and early 1800’s when Beaver 1885. It was built on land Town, East Bridgewater, Beaver County was established and began to donated by Ovid Pinney.

Point and Fairport before it was grow. Prominent Pennsylvanians and finally dubbed Rochester. Some credit Ovid their families, including an Episcopal priest (the Pinney with the name. Another story tells of Rev. Francis Reno), the first U.S. State Senator from west of the Allegheny Mountains (General merchant Mitchell Hammond who received goods with the name “Rochester” on them and Abner Lacock), and Rochester’s first Justice of following a discussion with the riverboat pilot, the Peace (Joseph Irvin) began to build some the name caught on. It became official in 1840. of the first houses and farms in this area.

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ROCHESTER

“...I appeal to any white man to say that he ever entered Logan’s cabin hungry and [Logan] gave him not meat... my countrymen pointed as they passed and said, ‘Logan is the friend of white men.’

Learn more about Rochester Borough, Beaver County and Western Pennsylvania history online at rochersterpa.net, visitbeavercounty.com, or your local library. ©2005 StudioLuxe, Pashek Associates, Community Development Program of Beaver County, and the Rochester Borough office of Ed Piroli.

Masonic Temple image provided by Graule Studios.

Left: 1792 Map of Rochester divided into land lots (with owners noted) as drawn by surveyor Daniel Leet. Daniel Leet himself owned several lots. Deer Lane runs eastward to Fox Lane, now Virginia Avenue. Tiger Lane is now Adams Street and Panther Lane is now Pinney Street.

Who was Chief Logan

?

Chief Logan, an Indian born around 1725, was named “Talgayeeta,” but was baptized “Logan” — a name his father chose to honor his friend and colleague James Logan who held an office under William Penn. Like his father, Logan grew up to be a fair and esteemed leader and ambassador, assisting Pennsylvania authorities with Indian relations. In 1770, Chief Logan maintained a hunting lodge near here and this area became known as “Logan’s Town.” Four years later, Logan moved to Yellow Creek near Steubenville. At the time, tensions were high between whites and Indians. In the spring of that year, while Logan was away on a hunting trip, a group of radical white men murdered Logan’s entire family. Prior to this horrific event, Logan was known to many as a noble Indian and peacemaker who argued against war. However, after the massacre, Logan sought revenge — killing many whites throughout the Ohio River Valley. This was the start of bloody battles between Indians and settlers that plagued this area for years. When the peace treaty ending these wars finally occurred, Logan allegedly gave a great speech, known as “Logan’s Lament,” praised by those present and later read by Thomas Jefferson into the congressional record (excerpt below).

...Colonel Cresap, the last spring, murdered all the relations of Logan, not sparing even my women and children... This called on me for revenge. I have sought it.

I have killed many. I have fully glutted my vengeance.

For my country I rejoice at the beams of peace. But do not harbor a thought that mine is the joy of fear. Logan never felt fear. He will not turn on his heel to save his life. Who is there to mourn for Logan? — Not one.”

Rochester as it looked in 1849.

Recreation Improvements Based on the public and study committee input received during the course of this study we recommend the following recreation improvements be made to the McKean County Complex: • Streamside walking and nature trail • Shared use non-motorized hiking, biking, and equestrian trail, approximately 1.0 miles • Shared use motorized, hiking and biking trail, approximately 0.7 miles • Single track mountain biking trails, approximately 4.1 miles • Sledding hill and warming shelter • Trail connections to Hamlin Lake Park, Smethport Borough Business District, County 4-H and Fairgrounds, Elk State Forest and Clermont Trail, and the Kinzua State Park and Kinzua Valley Trails

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Poor Farm Cemetery The Poor Farm Cemetery, located near the center of the property, is approximately 150’ x 200’ in size. Unless one is familiar with its location, it would go unnoticed to the casual visitor. Many of the graves are unmarked, and those marked were done so primarily with temporary markers.

The cemetery is maintained, and mowed, by the County’s agricultural lessee, not by contract, but through good faith. We recommend the County consider adding the maintenance of the cemetery to the agricultural lease agreement when it is renewed.

The cemetery contains 215 plots. Records at the McKean County Historical Society record sixty burials in the cemetery. Historical Society staff noted the list was not comprehensive, and that the cemetery burial records are maintained in the current Sena Kean Manor. The first burial recorded on the records provided by the Historical Society was in 1936.

However, the newspaper accounts of the Ralph Crossmire execution in 1893 indicate he was buried at the cemetery upon execution.

We recommend the burial records archived in the basement of the Sena Kean Manor be reviewed to create a more thorough record of burials in the cemetery. This project could be undertaken as a Senior Project through the Smethport Area School District, by a local historian, by the McKean County Historical Society, or by a student or students in the history department of the University of Pittsburgh - Bradford campus.

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In conjunction with the interpretation of the history of the County Poor Farm, we recommend the history of the Cemetery, and a comprehensive list of those buried within it be interpreted at the site of the cemetery. The most infamous person interred in the cemetery is believed to be Ralph Crossmire whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story is told at the conclusion of this chapter.

According to Historical Society staff the last burial in this cemetery occurred in the early to mid 1990â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

Given that many of the recorded burials are of 20th century residents of the County who relatives are living, we recommend modest improvements to the cemetery to define and recognize this location in a dignified manner.

Therefore we recommend: - improve the access road by grading it to provide access to it by passenger vehicles - provide two accessible parking spaces near the entrance to the cemetery - encompass the perimeter of the cemetery with an ornamental fence, consider an ornamental gateway arch over the entrance into the cemetery - installing benches for mediation within the cemetery, immediately inside the entrance

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Potential Roles of Public and Non-Public Agencies in Implementing the Recommendations of the McKean County Complex Master Plan Although ultimate control and responsibility for property is held by the McKean County Board of Commissioners, we recommend partnerships be developed and reinforced so the recommendations presented herein can be implemented through partnerships as authorized by the Board of Commissioners.

Based on the anticipated needs of implementing the proposed trail improvements, we recommend consideration be given to establishing partnerships with the following agencies and organizations: • McKean County Commissioners - to publicly promote the vision of the McKean County Complex, to provide county resources to assist with the implementation of master plan, to lead and facilitate the establishment of partnerships with the goal of expanding and identifying resources outside of county government to implement the master plan, to identify and secure funding for implementation of the master plan in conjunction with the partners, and to provide resources to assist in resolving obstacles to implementation of the master plan recommendations.

• PA Route 6 Heritage Alliance - to partner in fund raising, promoting, development and operations of the proposed agriculture, environment, history, and cultural tourism center.

• PA Wilds Design Team - to partner in fund raising, promoting, development and operations of the proposed agriculture, environment, history, and cultural tourism center.

• McKean County Conservation District - to promote and implement sustainable agricultural, stormwater and riparian buffer demonstration practices on the County Complex property. Act as a local liaison with Department of Environmental Protection and the PA Fish & Boat Commission.

• Headwaters Resource and Conservation Development - to promote and implement sustainable agricultural demonstration practices

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on the County Complex property, and to partner in fund raising, promoting, development and operations of the proposed agriculture, environment, history, and cultural tourism center.

• Headwaters Trust - to partner in fund raising to secure funding for the implementation of sustainable agricultural demonstration practices on the County Complex property, and to partner in fund raising, promoting, development of the proposed agriculture, environment, history, and cultural tourism center.

• National Resource Conservation Service - to provide technical assistance in the planning, design, and implementation of sustainable agricultural practices, stormwater best management practices, streamside buffer enhancement, and streamside livestock fencing.

• Pennsylvania Farm Bureau - partner to provide funding, technical assistance in the planning, design, and implementation of sustainable agricultural practices, stormwater best management practices, streamside buffer enhancement, and streamside livestock fencing.

• PA Department of Environmental Protection - partner to provide funding, technical assistance in the planning, design, and implementation of sustainable agricultural practices, stormwater best management practices, streamside buffer enhancement, and streamside livestock fencing.

• Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission - to partner in enhancing riparian buffers, providing fishing access, and develop canoe / kayak access along Marvin Creek and to assist in funding the design and implementation of these facilities through their Boating Facility Improvements grant program.

• PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources - partner to provide funding, technical assistance in the planning, design, and implementation of sustainable agricultural practices, stormwater best management practices, streamside buffer enhancement, streamside livestock fencing, and recreation improvements throughout the property.

Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

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• Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau - to partner in promoting all aspects of the implementation of the McKean County Complex Master Plan recommendations and implementation • PennDOT - to partner in the implementation of high quality pedestrian and bicycle routes along U.S. Route 6, planning, design, and funding of highway access management improvements along the McKean County Complex property, and partner in the assessment, evaluation and in preparing recommendations for the rehabilitation / replacement of the farm bridge over Marvin Creek.

• Keating Township - to promote the vision of the Smethport Trail System, to provide resources to assist with the implementation of the trail, and to support the on-going operations and maintenance of the trail corridor through the donation of in-kind services and donated materials.

• McKean County Historical Society - to partner in conducting research and data collection for the design and development of historical interpretive signs.

• Potato Creek Trail Association - As the current non-profit organization promoting the existing trails in the Smethport area, they are well established, and well suited to take the lead in the expansion of the trail system and in establishing, promoting, marketing, developing and maintaining a water trail and associated non-motorized boat put-ins and take outs along Potato and Marvin Creeks • Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Club - to partner in improving and maintaining the motorized shared use trail through the County Complex property.

• Northern Allegheny Mountain Bike Association - to partner in designing, establishing, and maintaining the single track mountain bike trails on the County Complex property.

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â&#x20AC;˘ Other Agencies and Organizations: to provide assistance with feasibility, planning, promoting, development of the proposed agriculture, environment, history, and cultural tourism center, and with agricutural best management practices include: - - - - - - - -

Penn State Cooperative Extension - extension.psu.edu FoodMatrix - North Central Pennsylvania Based Pennsylvania Buy fresh Buy Local Campaign - buylocalpa.org Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agricuture pasafarming.org PA Preferred Program of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Appropriate Technology Transfer to Rural Areas, National Sustainable Agriculture Information Services - attra.ncat.org Foodroutes.org Localharvest.org

Local Legend & Lore It is rumored that unxeplainable noises, and hauntings have occured over the years in the County Poor Farm Buildings. The following article in the McKean County Miner, Smethport, PA, December 15,1893 tells the story of a county resident executed and buried in the Poor Farm Cemetery.

This local legend should be interpreted and included with other on-going tourist promotions such as the Mansion District Walking Tour and the interpretation of features along the Potato Creek Trails.

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McKean County Miner Smethport, Pa., Dec. 15,1893

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Stone walls do not a prison make, nor iron bars a jail – Not for a ghost who is free to come or go as he may elect It is said that the ghost of Ralph Crossmire still haunts McKean County Courthouse and McKean County’s Old County Jail . . .

McKean County Miner Smethport, Pa., Dec. 15,1893 The Crime Avenged – Ralph Crossmire Hanged by the Neck Until Dead Ralph Crossmire who today paid the penalty of his life on the gallows, for the heartless murder of an innocent mother was a tall, broad shouldered, sinewy man and about 27 years of age. He had black hair, cut pompadour, and since his incarceration had grown a full beard of a brownish hue. His eyes were large, partook of a grayish color, and fierce in appearance. He was an amateur sprinter and gave more than one exhibition of his skill in the corridor of the jail during his imprisonment. He was quite an adept in making “curios,” and many articles made by him while awaiting for the hangman’s knot to be gently adjusted around his neck and he jerked into eternity, are now worn and his skill, in that direction, appreciated by several persons in the county. Until the closing scenes of today, he has at times been very indifferent about the crime he committed and the fate which awaited him, though he confessed to one that he had broken a certain padlock about the jail in trying to secure his escape. Ralph had the distinction of being a “paid up” subscriber to the MINER. The Victim Mrs. Lucetta Crossmire was a member of the Baptist church and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union and aside from her son, was not known to have had an enemy in the world. She was the widow of the late Niles Crossmire and was aged 50 years. She did not live with her husband the last few years of his life. They were married about 30 years ago. At one time Crossmire was in straightened circumstances and on account of his many debts deeded his two farms to his wife. In later years when he desired the property trouble arose. Mrs. Crossmire refused to give up the titles. Her life was made miserable, and after 20 years of happy companionship they separated. Mrs. Crossmire went to

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Eldred to live. December 1891 Crossmire died and his widow decided to return to the old homestead and take care of her father-in-law, Daniel Crossmire, who is aged 83 years, and look after the farm. She was a kind, affectionate, hard working woman, who had seen lots of trouble, but was beloved and esteemed by all her neighbors and those who knew her.

The Crime At the close of day, on Saturday, Nov. 19, 1892, the people of Farmer’s Valley were greatly excited by the discovery of the lifeless body of Mrs. Lucetta Crossmire hanging by her neck in mid-air from a rope attached to a beam in a cow stable on the Crossmire farm. It was at first thought the victim had committed suicide, but a closer observation revealed the hands of violence; and no one was surprised that 7 year old George Herzog screamed in horror when he, as the first person, saw the dreadful spectacle by the aid of a lantern in the shadows of the night.

A healthy woman who about an hour previous had left comfortable fireside to milk the cows was now only a mangled corpse suspended in mid-air by a rope. Her face was covered with blood, her tongue protruded from a smothered countenance and her skirts were torn from the body and lay on the floor beneath the victim. An old cloth sun bonnet was loosely placed upon the dead woman’s head, and her artificial teeth were found near by the scenes of violence.

All who saw the surroundings were sure that the old lady did not commit suicide but had been murdered, and the rope which had previously been used to tie a cow in the stable, but now neatly adjusted around the neck of the victim by a “hangman’s knot” of four turns, was not the work of her own hands, but that of a stronger person. There were also evidences of a struggle which would not have appeared had the woman hanged herself.

A pool of blood on the floor, four feet away from where the body hung, was discovered.

The disheveled, iron gray hair on the head was covered with filth and gore. Men searched the stable and a larger barn adjoining it for further proof and found several tracks in the fresh snow, made by a man’s rubber boots. At the corner of the little stable the snow was tramped down to a considerable extent, showing where the murderer had awaited the coming of his unsuspecting victim.

Coroner Slocum impaneled a jury who after an exciting inquest returned the following

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verdict: â&#x20AC;&#x153;That Lucetta Crossmire, came to her death by being choked and smothered by some party or parties unknown to the jury.â&#x20AC;?

The Trial Ralph Crossmire, the only son of the murdered woman, who was suspected as being the perpetrator of the brutal deed, was arrested the Monday morning following the day of the crime, and lodged in the county jail at Smethport by Deputy Sheriff Clarke, to await trial for the same, which began March 2, 1893. The trial continued for three days with unabated interest each session, the court house being filled to its utmost capacity with men, women and children who were eager to hear every word of one of the most important criminal cases ever tried in McKean County. The evidence was entirely circumstantial, but the chain was woven so completely around Ralph Crossmire that scarcely any one who heard the proceedings could doubt his guilt; and after the prisoner testified in his own behalf his story being so conflicting and absurd it was more the evident that Ralph Crossmire had choked to death the mother who 27 years ago had born an offspring destined to be a matricide.

Summary of the Evidence Ralph Crossmire probably spent the greater portion of the day on which the murder was committed in the hay mow waiting for Mrs. Crossmire to come to the stable. When milking time arrived, from his lookout he saw her. Then he jumped down from his place of concealment and walked around to the corner of the barn where footprints appeared in the snow. He stood there until Mrs. Crossmire entered the stable and fed the cattle. Then, as she sat milking, he probably stole upon her from behind and clutching her tightly by the throat dragged her backward to a spot where he had sufficient room for his bloody work. Then as she lay prone on her back, to make sure of his victim, he struck her with a heavy piece of wood upon her face and forehead. Then to make it appear a case of suicide the assassin secured a rope which had tied a cow and hung the dead woman as she was found. It was a bungling job and deceived no one.

The Verdict of the Jury The case was given to the jury about midnight Saturday, March 4, who after eighteen hours of calm deliberation returned a verdict of murder in the first degree.

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Eugene Mullin, Esq. , the able defendant for Crossmire made an effort to secure a new trial for his client but the motion was over ruled by Judge Morrison who, at the close of the Argument court, March 14.

Sentenced Crossmire to be hanged. When the prisoner was brought before the court, to receive the sentence, in answer to the usual question if he had anything to say why the sentence of death should not passed upon him, he said without a tremor, “ I don’t know why it should.”

“If you have,” continued Judge Morrison, “We will hear you.” “I have nothing to say only that Miss Pelton, the principal witness against me, is a bad troublesome woman, always down on our folks.” Judge Morrison then said: “It is the sentence of this court that you, the said Ralph Crossmire, be taken from this place to the jail in the county of McKean, from whence you came, there to be hanged by the neck, according to law until you are dead, and you are now committed to the custody of the Sheriff aforesaid for the purpose of having this sentence carried into execution.

The Execution McKean County Jail, Smethport PA, Thursday, December 14th, 1893, at 10 A.M. It is said that on the scaffold Crossmire announced to the viewers that if he was hung he would return to haunt the jail. There is something within a man that cannot be hit with a club or killed with a rope. Ralph kept his promise. An Italian was soon locked in the cell he had occupied. The prisoner was terribly frightened one night when Ralph suddenly appeared, stayed a while and then vanished. Other inmates also saw him. Panic spread in the cells.

Because of fear of the unknown they were all afraid and begged to be released or sent to another place. There was no escape for them, they had to stay there and face the ghost.

The unmarked burial site of Ralph Crossmire lies cloistered in a venerable pine grove on the McKean County Poor Farm.

Today.....

It is said that the ghost of Ralph Crossmire still haunts McKean County Courthouse and McKean County’s Old County Jail.

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McKean County Complex Improvements Opinion of Probable Construction Costs An Opinion of Probable Construction Cost was developed for the improvements proposed for the McKean County Complex Improvements recommended herein. These cost projections are based on the assumption they will be implemented through a public bidding process, utilizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2011 Prevailing Wage Rates. To budget for inflation we recommend the costs for future improvements be increased by four percent annually for each year beyond 2011.

In Pennsylvania all publicly bid projects valued over $25,000 are required to use the Prevailing Wage Rates. However, in-kind services and labor, volunteer labor, and donated equipment and materials, all may reduce the construction costs.

The projected cost to complete the development of the McKean County Complex Improvements, through publicly bid contracts, is $4,560,000.

These costs are summarized on the following page, and further itemized on the following pages.

Projected costs for accessibility improvements are included the facility development cost projections, i.e. concrete sidewalks, $122,400.

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McKean County Complex Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. 1

Item / Recommendation

Unit Cost

Unit

Earthwork

75

CY

$10

$750

Concrete sidewalk

160

SY

$102

$16,320

Directional signs

2

EA

$500

$1,000

Shade trees

24

EA

$500

$12,000

Seeding

2

MSF

$100

$200

Sena-Kean Manor Entrance

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$30,270

Construction Overhead

10

%

$30,270

$3,027

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures

4

%

$30,270

$1,211

Construction Contingency

10

%

$30,270

$3,027

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

$37,535 10

%

$37,535

TOTAL FOR SENA-KEAN MANOR ENTRANCE 2

Total Item Cost

Quantity

$3,753

$41,288

Historic Poor Farm Campus Remove existing asphalt paving

4100

SY

$3

$12,300

Remove existing concrete

200

SY

$5

$1,000

Remove existing gravel

1600

SY

$2

$3,200

Earthwork

2225

CY

$10

$22,250

Asphalt and pervious paving

4000

SY

$55

$220,000

Concrete sidewalks

1200

SY

$102

$122,400

Concrete curb

600

LF

$34

$20,400

Patio pavers

2000

SF

$20

$40,000

Line striping

1

LS

$2,500

$2,500

Benches with footings

8

EA

$1,500

$12,000

Kiosk with campus map

1

EA

$5,000

$5,000

Campus signs

8

EA

$500

$4,000

Interpretive signs

3

EA

$1,500

$4,500

County Complex Sign and landscaping

1

LS

$25,000

$25,000

Shade trees

54

EA

$500

$27,000

Seeding

16

MSF

$100

$1,600

Hedge planting

550

LF

$20

$11,000

Meadow planting

0.7

AC

$8,500

$5,950

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$540,100

Construction Overhead

10

%

$540,100

$54,010

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures (including rain gardens)

4

%

$540,100

$21,604

Construction Contingency

10

%

$540,100

$54,010

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

Trail Plan and County TOTALSmethport FOR HISTORIC POOR FARM CAMPUS

$669,724 10

%

$669,724

Park Master Plans

$66,972

$736,696

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Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. 3

Item / Recommendation

Unit Cost

Unit

Remove existing asphalt paving

100

SY

$3

$300

Remove existing gravel

1350

SY

$2

$2,700

Earthwork

1200

CY

$10

$12,000

Asphalt and pervious paving

2800

SY

$55

$154,000

Concrete sidewalks

120

SY

$102

$12,240

Concrete curb

300

LF

$34

$10,200

Line striping

1

LS

$2,500

$2,500

Benches with footings

1

EA

$1,500

$1,500

Kiosk with campus map

1

EA

$5,000

$5,000

Campus signs

2

EA

$500

$1,000

Shade trees

25

EA

$500

$12,500

Seeding

1

MSF

$100

$100

Hedge planting

620

LF

$20

$12,400

Meadow planting

0.3

AC

$8,500

$2,550

CYS/E911

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$228,990

Construction Overhead

10

%

$228,990

$22,899

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures (including rain gardens)

4

%

$228,990

$9,160

Construction Contingency

10

%

$228,990

$22,899

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

$283,948 10

%

$283,948

TOTAL FOR CYS/E911 4

$28,395

$312,342

Barn Area Earthwork

100

CY

$10

$1,000

Gravel paving (reused from Modern County Buildings)

150

SY

$10

$1,500

Shade trees

8

EA

$500

$4,000

Seeding

1

MSF

$100

$100

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$6,600

Construction Overhead

10

%

$6,600

$660

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures

4

%

$6,600

$264

Construction Contingency

10

%

$6,600

$660

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

TOTAL FOR BARN AREA

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Total Item Cost

Quantity

$8,184 10

%

$8,184

$818

$9,002

Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

McKean County Complex

Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. 5

Item / Recommendation

Unit Cost

Unit

Remove existing asphalt paving

550

SY

$3

$1,650

Earthwork

200

CY

$10

$2,000

Asphalt paving

475

SY

$35

$16,625

Relocate recycling sign and bins

1

LS

$500

$500

Seeding

1

MSF

$100

$100

100

LF

$20

$2,000

Recycling Center

Hedge planting ITEM SUBTOTALS

$22,875

Construction Overhead

10

%

$22,875

$2,288

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures

4

%

$22,875

$915

Construction Contingency

10

%

$22,875

$2,288

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

$28,365 10

%

$28,365

TOTAL FOR RECYCLING CENTER 6

Total Item Cost

Quantity

$2,837

$31,202

Tourism Center Clearing and grubbing

1

LS

$1,000

$1,000

Earthwork

1800

CY

$10

$18,000

Asphalt and pervious paving

1900

SY

$55

$104,500

Concrete sidewalks

175

SY

$102

$17,850

Concrete curb

300

LF

$34

$10,200

Line striping

1

LS

$1,500

$1,500

Benches with footings

2

EA

$1,500

$3,000

Tourism Center

1

LS

$1,000,000

$1,000,000

Interpretive exhibits

1

LS

$25,000

$25,000

Campus signs

2

EA

$500

$1,000

Tourism Center Sign and landscaping

1

LS

$25,000

$25,000

Shade trees

20

EA

$500

$10,000

Seeding

1

MSF

$100

$100

Hedge planting

60

LF

$20

$1,200

Meadow planting

0.7

AC

$8,500

$5,950

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$1,224,300

Construction Overhead

10

%

$1,224,300

$122,430

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures

4

%

$1,224,300

$48,972

Construction Contingency

10

%

$1,224,300

$122,430

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

$1,518,132 10

%

$1,518,132

TOTAL FOR TOURISM CENTER

Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

$151,813

$1,669,945

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Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. 7

Item / Recommendation

Unit Cost

Unit

Tilling (0.85 AC)

1

LS

$200

$200

Soil amendments (0.85 AC)

1

LS

$5,000

$5,000

730

SY

$22

$16,060

4

EA

$1,500

$6,000

Hedge planting

200

LF

$20

$4,000

Fruit trees

30

EA

$150

$4,500

Vegetable seeds

1

LS

$500

$500

Sena-Kean Manor Orchard and Gardens

Crushed limestone paths (5â&#x20AC;&#x2122; wide) Benches with footings

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$36,260

Construction Overhead

10

%

$36,260

$3,626

Construction Contingency

10

%

$36,260

$3,626

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

$43,512 10

%

$43,512

TOTAL FOR SENA-KEAN MANOR ORCHARD AND GARDENS 8

Hedge planting

$47,863

1

LS

$30,000

$30,000

650

LF

$20

$13,000

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$43,000

Construction Overhead

10

%

$43,000

$4,300

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures

4

%

$43,000

$1,720

Construction Contingency

10

%

$43,000

$4,300

ITEM AND CONSTRUCTION SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

$53,320 10

%

$53,320

TOTAL FOR COUNTY JAIL

$5,332

$58,652

Riparian Buffer Riparian Buffer

53.4

AC

$8,000

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$427,200 $427,200

Construction Overhead

10

%

$427,200

$42,720

Construction Contingency

10

%

$427,200

$42,720

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

TOTAL FOR RIPARIAN BUFFER

3-106

$4,351

County Jail Shelter

9

Total Item Cost

Quantity

$512,640 10

%

$512,640

$51,264

$563,904

Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

McKean County Complex

Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. 10

Item / Recommendation

Unit Cost

Unit

4500

CY

$10

$45,000

Warming Shelter (30x45)

1

LS

$60,000

$60,000

Crushed limestone paths (6’ wide)

35

SY

$22

$770

Sledding Hill and Warming Shelter Earthwork

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$105,770

Construction Overhead

10

%

$105,770

$10,577

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures

4

%

$105,770

$4,231

Construction Contingency

10

%

$105,770

$10,577

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

$131,155 10

%

$131,155

TOTAL FOR SLEDDING HILL AND WARMING SHELTER 11

Total Item Cost

Quantity

$13,115

$144,270

Nature Trail Clearing and grubbing

1

LS

$1,000

$1,000

Earthwork

1000

CY

$10

$10,000

Crushed limestone paths (5’ wide)

4030

SY

$22

$88,660

Boardwalk (5’ wide)

750

SF

$50

$37,500

Canoe/kayak boat launch (hardened stream bank)

1

LS

$500

$500

Canoe/kayak boat storage

1

LS

$10,000

$10,000

Small bridges

3

EA

$1,000

$3,000

Large bridges

2

EA

$25,000

$50,000

Directional signs and mile markers

1

LS

$2,000

$2,000

Interpretive signs

3

EA

$1,500

$4,500

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$207,160

Construction Overhead

10

%

$207,160

$20,716

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures

4

%

$207,160

$8,286

Construction Contingency

10

%

$207,160

$20,716

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

$256,878 10

%

$256,878

TOTAL FOR NATURE TRAIL

Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

$25,688

$282,566

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Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. 12

Item / Recommendation

Unit Cost

Unit

Earthwork

900

CY

$10

$9,000

Crushed limestone paths (10’ wide)

5350

SY

$22

$117,700

Directional signs and mile markers

1

LS

$250

$250

Shared Use Motorized, Hiking, and Biking Trail

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$126,950

Construction Overhead

10

%

$126,950

$12,695

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures

4

%

$126,950

$5,078

Construction Contingency

10

%

$126,950

$12,695

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

$157,418 10

%

$157,418

TOTAL FOR SHARED USE MOTORIZED, HIKING, & BIKING TRAIL 13

$173,160

1600

CY

$10

$16,000

4.2

MI

$1,500

$6,300

Small bridge

2

EA

$1,000

$2,000

Directional signs and mile markers

1

LS

$1,500

$1,500

Natural surface trail (2’ wide)

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$25,800

Construction Overhead

10

%

$25,800

$2,580

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures

4

%

$25,800

$1,032

Construction Contingency

10

%

$25,800

$2,580

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

$31,992 10

%

$31,992

TOTAL FOR SINGLE TRACK MOUNTAIN BIKE AND HIKING TRAILS

$3,199

$35,191

Shared Use Non-Motorized Trail Crushed limestone paths (10’ wide)

5800

SY

$22

$127,600

Directional signs and mile markers

1

LS

$1,500

$1,500

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$129,100

Construction Overhead

10

%

$129,100

$12,910

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures

4

%

$129,100

$5,164

Construction Contingency

10

%

$129,100

$12,910

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

$160,084 10

TOTAL FOR SHARED USE NON-MOTORIZED TRAIL

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$15,742

Single Track Mountain Bike and Hiking Trails Earthwork

14

Total Item Cost

Quantity

%

$160,084

$16,008

$176,092

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McKean County Complex

Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. 15

Item / Recommendation

Unit Cost

Unit

1.5

AC

$8,000

$12,000

3350

LF

$15

$50,250

Sustainable Riparian Pasture Streambank restoration planting Fencing

ITEM SUBTOTALS Construction Contingency

$62,250 10

%

$62,250

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

$6,225 $68,475

10

%

$68,475

TOTAL FOR SUSTAINABLE RIPARIAN PASTURE 16

Total Item Cost

Quantity

$6,848

$75,323

Cemetery Improvements Ornamental fencing

700

LF

$55

$38,500

Landscaping

1

LS

$5,000

$5,000

Interpretive sign

1

EA

$1,500

$1,500

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$45,000

Construction Overhead

10

%

$45,000

$4,500

Construction Contingency

10

%

$45,000

$4,500

CONSTRUCTION OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

$54,000 10

%

$54,000

TOTAL FOR SINGLE TRACK MOUNTAIN BIKE AND HIKING TRAILS

$5,400

$59,400

Last, are the costs for plugging the orphaned oil wells. Although the exact extent and number of wells is unknown, we recommend budgeting $150,000 to plug the wells on site. This is based on the assumption that there are ten to twelve orphaned wells located on the property, and the average cost to plug the wells will be approximately $10,000.

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McKean County Complex Opinion of Probable Construction Costs Summary - 2010 Area Projected Cost 1 2 3

Sena-Kean Manor Entrance Historic Poor Farm Campus CYS/E911

4

Barn Area

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Recycling Center Tourism Center Sena-Kean Manor Orchard and Gardens County Jail Riparian Buffer Sledding Hill and Warming Shelter Nature Trail

12

Shared Use Motorized, Hiking and Biking Trail

$173,160

13 14 15

Single Track Mountain Bike and Hiking Trails Shared Use Non-Motorized Trail Sustainable Riparian Pasture

$35,191 $176,092 $75,323

$9,002 $31,202 $1,669,945 $47,863 $58,652 $563,904 $144,270 $282,566

16

Cemetery Improvements

$59,400

17

Orphaned Well Plugging

$150,000

Total

3-110

$41,288 $736,696 $312,342

$4,556,898

Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

McKean County Complex Phasing Plan In an ideal world the McKean County Complex improvements would be constructed in one phase, minimizing the construction activities, disruptions, and realizing â&#x20AC;&#x153;economies of scaleâ&#x20AC;? construction savings.

However, few communities and organizations can afford to proceed in this manner. They find it more appropriate to phase construction over a period of time.

Therefore, we phased implementation of the proposed improvements.

Furthermore, some of the improvements require additional study. In these cases we recommend the additional planning work occur before the actual improvements occur. The implementation of the phases can take place during consecutive years, or they can be further spread out over time. For example completing one phase of construction every two to five years. The speed at which the phases are implemented would be based on the financial capacity of the project partners.

Phase I Improvements consist of those efforts necessary to address health, safety and welfare issues. Given the potential liability of these issues we recommend this work occur immediately.

1. Conduct a structural assessment and evaluation of the existing farm bridge over Marvin Creek to determine work necessary to rehabilitate / reconstruct the bridge to comply with current PennDOT bridge safety standards. Cost: To be Determined by Study.

2. Contact the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Northwest Regional Office, to prepare a plan of action to fund and cap the orphaned oil wells located on the County Complex property.

Projected Cost: $150,000.

The remaining phases can be selected based on the interest and desire of the County and its potential partners to assist with grant writing, securing funding, providing in-kind / donated services, retaining professional services, and implementing the proposed improvements.

If the County, and its partners, desire to move forward with the planning

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for the proposed Agriculture, Environment, History, and Cultural Tourism Center, then we recommend a feasibility study be completed early on to evaluate the ability of Barn C to accommodate the program for the building which will also be refined through the feasibility study process. From feasibility study to building construction can take as little as five years, and as long as ten to fifteen years depending on the ability to secure funding.

The following projects are examples of how partnerships can be leveraged to reduce the overall cost of implementation. a. Shared Use Motorized, Hiking, and Biking Trail: McKean County, in conjunction with the Potato Creek Trails Association and the Seneca Highlands Snowmobile Trails Association can partner to secure grants, and implement the proposed improvements utilizing in-kind and volunteer services provided by members of the their respective organizations. We project a cost savings of up to 50% of the publicly bid project may be achieved in this manner. This could reduce the project cost from $175,000 to approximately $85,000. b. Riparian (Streamside) Buffer Enhancements: The current rate for constructing riparian buffer enhancements through a publicly bid process is approximately $8,000 per acre. This cost can be reduced to approximately $4,000 per acre by partnering with the McKean County Conservation District, the National Resources Conservation Service, the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, and other interested organizations to fund, design, and construct, through volunteer and in-kind services, the proposed improvements. c. Sledding Hill and Warming Shelter: The cost to implement this project may be reduced by soliciting the donation of earthwork services from Duffy Industries, and / or other local companies specializing in earthmoving. Once the site is prepared, a shelter kit can be purchased at a guaranteed price through a State Contract, COSTARS and / or U.S. Communities purchasing program. The shelter can be erected utilizing donated services of local residents who work in the construction industry, and a stone fireplace can be added to the structure by utilizing donated services of local masons.

This could reduce the cost to construct these improvements to 30 50% of the projected publicly bid construction cost.

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Projects such as the reconfiguration or parking areas should only be implemented when the current asphalt surfaces are failing and in need of repair, or when adjacent work requires work in associated parking lot areas.

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McKean County 4-H & Fairgrounds Master Plan Recommendations The master plan for the twenty-five acre McKean County 4-H & Fairgrounds reflects the desire of the community to: • Implement sustainable and stormwater best management practices throughout the property • Rehabilitate / reconstruct / replace outdated facilities • Upgrade the McKean County Speedway to address safety, management, and operational aspects • Promote and market the 4-H & Fairgrounds as a destination with the PA Wilds • Promote and market the McKean County Raceway from a historical perspective, develop on-line and museum resources The recommendations presented herein have been developed to achieve these goals.

4-H & Fairgrounds Improvements Given the input received from the public participation and through the study committee, we recommend the following facility improvements to the McKean County 4-H & Fairgrounds: • Mural on Existing Silo: We recommend a mural be painted on the existing silo to provide an identity for the McKean County 4-H & Fairgrounds. Currently the 4-H & Fairgrounds does not have an identifiable logo or image. The image of the silo and mural can be adapted into a logo for the 4-H & Fairgrounds that can be used in marketing and promotion efforts.

• Reorganized Gravel Roads / Stabilized Turf Parking Areas – better defined roads helps drivers stay on the road rather than eroding soils and tracking mud, dirt, and debris throughout the site. Create stabilized turf parking areas to provide appropriate areas to accommodate on-site parking needs.

The locations of the proposed roadways and stabilized turf areas are shown on the master plan, and further described

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later in the chapter in the section Stainability and Stormwater Best Management Practices. â&#x20AC;˘ Vegetative Buffers: We recommend vegetative screens be planted in key locations on along the border of the property to screen views of adjacent properties. We recommend the vegetative be located: - Along the northern boundary of the property to screen adjacent Township property, mobile home court, and Duffy Industries properties - Along the western border of the property to screen adjacent Duffy Industries properties - Along the southern border of the property to screen the adjacent commercial property

â&#x20AC;˘ Proposed Cattle Building: two existing cattle shelters are in need of replacement. We recommend the construction of one larger building to replace the two existing smaller cattle barns in the location of the two existing barns which we proposed to be removed. The Cattle building must contain an appropriate free stall system as well as milking and wash stations.

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• Proposed Exhibit Hall: this proposed building, located next to the Exhibit Hall, will replace the existing Pytcher Building to make room for more grandstands.

• • New Grandstands with Box Seats and Concessions: given the southern grandstands do not meet current safety requirements we recommend

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they be removed and replaced with grandstands, meeting current safety guidelines and requirements. The new grandstands should reflect the character and style of the existing which will remain. To accommodate the needs to generate additional revenue, we recommend the proposed stands will include box seats for corporate sponsorship with concessions being located beneath the bleachers. The new grandstands will meet the needs of the McKean County Raceway by providing corporate boxes for speedway events.

â&#x20AC;˘ New Concessions / Restrooms: this proposed building is located in the pit area and will replace the existing building near the campgrounds.

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• Reconfiguration of Existing Campground: this allows more room for campgrounds and booth / Exhibit space.

Campground Improvements • Regconfigure camp sites to establish formal campground, requires relocation of access road through campground, total of forty-seven camp sites proposed, we recommend the sites on either side of the existing restroom / shower building be accessible sites, with stabilized pads and accessible routes to the existing restroom and shower building.

Raceway Improvements • Upgrade Safety Fence: The safety fence in front of the grandstands does not meet current safety standards, therefore we recommend it be replaced complying with current standards.

• Clay Track Rehabilitation: The existing clay track surface is in poor condition, therefore, we recommend it be rehabilitated with the addition of imported clay material.

• New Pit Entrance: to reduce confusion, the main entrance to the pits is located adjacent to the new grandstands being proposed.

• New Track Office: the existing office will be razed and a new building is proposed next to the proposed Exhibit Hall and existing restrooms.

This area is proposed to be the main entrance into the grandstands.

During the public and study input sessions it was recommended the exhibit hall be utilized to promote the historical aspects of racing at the McKean County Raceway. This would build upon the existing historic and cultural tourism efforts occurring in the Borough of Smethport and the PA Wilds region, as well as the proposed historic tourism aspects proposed in the County Complex Master Plan.

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Stainability and Stormwater Best Management Practices Stormwater best management practices (BMPs) reduce sedimentation, increases infiltration, and filters out pollutants. Implementation of these practices will address the current issues of on site stormwater management issues, sedimentation of State Route 46 after races, stabilization of the site to eliminate water quality issues due to sediment laden stormwater run off. â&#x20AC;˘ Establish Vegetative or Stone / Gravel Cover Over Exposed Soils: Stormwater run off over exposed soils contributes sedimentation, erodes exposed soils, and pollutes adjacent water courses. These aspects are violations of the Federal Clean Water Act. Vegetative cover stabilizes the soil, assists in preventing erosion, filters sediment from stormwater, and reduces the velocity of stormwater run off. Where vegetative cover is not sufficient to provide structural stability in areas such as access roads, and assembly areas, we recommend those areas be stabilized with a stone / gravel surface which is sufficient to structurally support the intended uses.

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We recommend stabilizing exposed soils in the following manner: - All access roads: Stone / gravel stabilization - All remaining exposed soils: Turf grass stabilization To reduce maintenance concerns, turf stabilization can be accomplished by planting meadow grasses which only require seasonal mowing. This can be mowed at other times during the year as required by the operations of the property.

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â&#x20AC;˘ Pit Road Exit Stabilization: construct a 200 foot length of gravel road extending into the property from State route 46. The purpose of graveling this portion of the existing access road is to remove sediment and clay from vehicles leaving the race track and pit area to alleviate the deposition of sediment and clay on State Route 46.

This gravel road should be constructed in accordance with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protectionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s standard detail for a Construction Entrance as it designed with a similar intent. Further, raceway staff must implement maintenance activities as required by the PA DEP to properly maintain this stabilized road access.

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â&#x20AC;˘ Bio-Swales: these planted trapezoidal swales are designed to slow and filter out dirty runoff while directing it to the rain garden.

These swales are at least ten feet wide in order to be mowed.

Construct grass infiltration swales in the following locations: - western side of access road, extending north and south, west of horse barns, chicken and rabbit barn, pole building, and proposed cattle building - eastern edge of campground, between campground and property line - south of proposed pit concessions and restroom building

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Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

• Infiltration Beds and Rain Gardens – these large planted depressions are designed to capture stormwater runoff, filter it, and allow it to infiltrate into the ground. Construct infiltration beds / rain gardens in the following locations: - northwest of the existing race track

• Water Quality Inserts – placed in existing inlets, these devices remove sedimentation and helps prevent piles from clogging.

We recommend all existing inlets be replaced with water quality inlets.

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New Pit Entrance

Water Quality Insert on Existing Inlets Vegetative Screen

Grass Filtration Swale (typ.)

Rain Garden / Stormwater Quality and Infiltration

New Concessions / Restrooms in Pit Area

New Clay Track Surface

Vegetative Screen

Reconfigure of Campground Roads

New Grandstands with Box Seats and Concessions

Building Inventory 1 ! ( 2 ! ( 3 ! ( 4 ! ( 5 ! ( 6 ! ( 7 ! ( 8 ! ( 9 ! ( 10 ! ( 11 ! ( 12 ! ( 13 ! ( 14 ! ( 15 ! ( 16 ! ( 17 ! ( 18 ! ( 19 ! ( 20 ! ( 21 ! ( 22 ! ( 23 ! ( 24 ! ( 25 ! ( 26 ! ( 27 ! (

Office (relocated) Cattle Barn (replaced) Cattle Barn Sheep, Swine, & Horses Chicken & Rabbit Horse Barn Horse Barn Building no longer here Show Ring Exhibit Hall Wild Life Building Maintenance Building Restrooms & Showers Pit Concession (relocated) Portable Ticket Buildings Pytcher Building (relocated) Restrooms Raceway Office (relocated) 4-H Building Mini Stage Showers Restrooms Grange & Exhibit Hall Stage / Music & Entertainment Historical Society Museum Larry Ackley Complex Pole Building

New Track Office

Proposed Exibit Hall to Replace Pytcher Building 24 ! ( 25 ! (

23 ! (

! ( ! ( 26 ! ( 20

19

15 ! (

! (

17 ! (

13

10 ( 11 ! ! (

22 ! ( 21 ! (

Reorganized Gravel Roads

Vegetative Screen

! (

12

9 ! (

Proposed Cattle Building to Replace Existing Buildings

5 7 ! ( ! ( 6 !

27 4 ! ( ! ( (

New Mural on Existing Silo 1 ! (

Note:

Stabilized Pit Road Exit

Provide one accessible parking space per every twenty-five parking spaces.

MCKEAN COUNTY 4-H & FAIRGROUNDS

MASTER PLAN

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McKean County 4-H Grounds Improvements Opinion of Probable Construction Costs An Opinion of Probable Construction Cost was developed for the improvements proposed for the McKean County 4-H Grounds. These cost projections are based on the assumption they will be implemented through a public bidding process, utilizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2011 Prevailing Wage Rates. To budget for inflation we recommend the costs for future improvements be increased by four percent annually for each year beyond 2011.

In Pennsylvania all publicly bid projects valued over $25,000 are required to use the Prevailing Wage Rates. However, in-kind services and labor, volunteer labor, and donated equipment and materials, all may reduce the construction costs.

The projected cost to complete improvements to the McKean County 4-H Grounds, through publicly bid contracts, is $2,800,000. This cost is itemized on the following page.

Projected costs for accessibility improvements are included the facility development cost projections, i.e. construct new concessions / restroom building, lump sum, $100,000, includes accessible walkways to the facility.

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McKean County 4H & Fairgrounds Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. 1

Item / Recommendation

Qty

Unit

Reconfigure Gravel Roads

20,700

SY

Stabilize Turf Parking Area

3.5

Acre

5,455

Construct New Cattle Building

Unit Cost

4-H & Fairgrounds Improvements $15

$310,500

$90,000

$315,000

LF

$50

$272,750

1

LS

$150,000

$150,000

Construct New Exhibit Hall

1

LS

$125,000

$125,000

Construct New Grandstands with Box Seats

1

LS

$175,000

$175,000

Construct New Concessions/Restrooms Building

1

LS

$100,000

$100,000

Reconfigure Existing Campground

43

EA

$2,500

$107,500

Install Mural on Existing Silo

1

LS

$5,000

$5,000

Plant Vegetative Buffers

ITEM SUBTOTALS 2

$1,560,750

Raceway Improvements Upgrade Safety Fence

1

LS

$80,000

$80,000

Rehabilitate Clay Track

1

LS

$80,000

$80,000

Construct new pit entrance

1

LS

$25,000

$25,000

Construct new track office

1

LS

$150,000

$150,000

ITEM SUBTOTALS 3

Total Item Cost

$335,000

Sustainability & Stormwater Best Management Practices Establish Vegetative or Stone/Gravel Cover over Exposed Soils

4.5

Acre

Pit Road Exit Stabilization

200

LF

Construct Infiltration Bed and Rain Garden

0.7

Acre

5,249 12

Construct Bio-Swales Install Water Quality Inserts

$25,000

$112,500

$150

$30,000

$25,000

$17,500

LF

$30

$157,470

EA

$5,000

$60,000

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$377,470

Construction Overhead

10

%

$377,470

$37,747

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures (including rain gardens)

4

%

$377,470

$15,099

Construction Contingency

10

%

$377,470

$37,747

CONSTRUCTION BUDGET Incl. OVERHEAD AND CONTENGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

10

$468,063 %

$468,063

TOTAL

$46,806

$2,788,089

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McKean County 4-H & Fairgrounds Phasing Plan In an ideal world the McKean 4-H & Fairgrounds improvements would be constructed in one phase, minimizing the construction activities, disruptions, and realizing â&#x20AC;&#x153;economies of scaleâ&#x20AC;? construction savings.

However, few communities and organizations can afford to proceed in this manner. They find it more appropriate to phase construction over a period of time.

Therefore, we phased implementation of the proposed improvements. We have identified projects that could be implemented in the first two phases, over a period of two to ten years. Implementation of recommendations beyond this period should be reevaluated at that time before proceeding.

The implementation of the phases can take place during consecutive years, or they can be further spread out over time. For example completing one phase of construction every two to five years. The speed at which the phases are implemented would be based on the financial capacity of the project partners.

Phase I addresses safety issues related to the race track, and therefore, we recommend these occur immediately.

Phase II addresses sustainability and stormwater management of the site. Although the estimated costs for these improvements, based on a publicly bid project, is almost $1,500,000, we believe it can be acheived for a substantially lower cost with the use of donated services, materials, equiment, and in-kind services.

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McKean County 4-H & Fairgrounds - Phase I Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. 1

Item / Recommendation

Quantity Unit

Unit Cost

4-H & Fairgrounds Improvements Reconfigure Gravel Roads

0

SY

$15

$-

Stabilize Turf Parking Area

0.0

Acre

$90,000

$-

Plant Vegetative Buffers

0

LF

$50

$-

Construct New Cattle Building

0

LS

$150,000

$-

Construct New Exhibit Hall

0

LS

$125,000

$-

Construct New Grandstands with Box Seats

0

LS

$175,000

$-

Construct New Concessions/Restrooms Building

0

LS

$100,000

$-

Reconfigure Existing Campground

0

EA

$2,500

$-

Install Mural on Existing Silo

1

LS

$5,000

$5,000

ITEM SUBTOTALS 2

$5,000

Raceway Improvements Upgrade Safety Fence

1

LS

$80,000

$80,000

Rehabilitate Clay Track

1

LS

$80,000

$80,000

Construct new pit entrance

0

LS

$25,000

$-

Construct new track office

0

LS

$150,000

$-

ITEM SUBTOTALS 3

Total Item Cost

$160,000

Sustainability & Stormwater Best Management Practices Establish Vegetative or Stone/Gravel Cover over Exposed Soils

0.0

Acre

$25,000

$-

Pit Road Exit Stabilization

200

LF

$150

$30,000

Construct Infiltration Bed and Rain Garden

0.7

Acre

$25,000

$17,500

Construct Bio-Swales

0

LF

$30

$-

Install Water Quality Inserts

0

EA

$5,000

$-

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$47,500

Construction Overhead

10

%

$47,500

$4,750

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures (including rain gardens)

4

%

$47,500

$1,900

Construction Contingency

10

%

$47,500

$4,750

CONSTRUCTION BUDGET Incl. OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

10

$58,900 %

$58,900

TOTAL

$5,890

$277,290

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McKean County 4-H & Fairgrounds - Phase II Opinion of Probable Construction Costs - 2010 Item No. 1

Item / Recommendation

Qty

Unit

Reconfigure Gravel Roads

20,700

SY

Stabilize Turf Parking Area

3.5

Acre

Plant Vegetative Buffers

0

Construct New Cattle Building

Unit Cost

Total Item Cost

4-H & Fairgrounds Improvements $15

$310,500

$90,000

$315,000

LF

$50

$-

0

LS

$150,000

$-

Construct New Exhibit Hall

0

LS

$125,000

$-

Construct New Grandstands with Box Seats

0

LS

$175,000

$-

Construct New Concessions/Restrooms Building

0

LS

$100,000

$-

Reconfigure Existing Campground

0

EA

$2,500

$-

Install Mural on Existing Silo

0

LS

$5,000

$5,000

ITEM SUBTOTALS 2

$630,500

Raceway Improvements Upgrade Safety Fence

0

LS

$80,000

$-

Rehabilitate Clay Track

0

LS

$80,000

$-

Construct new pit entrance

1

LS

$25,000

$25,000

Construct new track office

0

LS

$150,000

$-

ITEM SUBTOTALS 3

$25,000

Sustainability & Stormwater Best Management Practices Establish Vegetative or Stone/Gravel Cover over Exposed Soils Pit Road Exit Stabilization Construct Infiltration Bed and Rain Garden Construct Bio-Swales Install Water Quality Inserts

4.5

Acre

$25,000

$112,500

0

LF

$150

$-

0.7

Acre

$25,000

$17,500

5,249

LF

$30

$157,470

12

EA

$5,000

$60,000

ITEM SUBTOTALS

$347,470

Construction Overhead

10

%

$347,470

$34,747

Erosion & Sedimentation Control Measures (including rain gardens)

4

%

$347,470

$13,899

Construction Contingency

10

%

$347,470

$34,747

CONSTRUCTION BUDGET Incl. OVERHEAD AND CONTINGENCY SUBTOTALS Design and Engineering Fees

10

$430,863 %

$430,863

TOTAL

3-136

$43,086

$1,476,919

Smethport Trail Plan and County Park Master Plans

Appendix I County Complex Deed and Lease

Appendix II 4-H and Fairgrounds Deed and Lease

Appendix III Potato Creek Trail Association By-Laws

Appendix IV Poor Farm Cemetery Burial Survey