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Home My WebLink AboutComprehensive Recreation/Shoreline Access Plan-1999CRAVEN COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA COMPREHENSIVE RECREATION/ SHORELINE ACCESS PLAN MAY, 1999 The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. CRAVEN COUNTY NORTH CAROLINA COMPREHENSIVE RECREATION/ SHORELINE ACCESS PLAN MAY, 1999 The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. CRAVEN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS J. Harold Talton, Chairman Albert H. Toon, Vice -Chairman Lee K. Allen C.W. "Pete" Bland Donald L. Phillips Johnnie Sampson, Jr. Charles F. Tyson, Jr. RECREATION AND PARKS COMMISSIONERS Gerald Adams, Chairman Vicki Heath, Vice -Chairman Ronnie Andrews Woodrow Brown James Bryant Ruby Connor Dick Fairburn Kenny Jones Perry Morris David Peele Clyde Swindell Benny Williams RECREATION AND PARKS STAFF Jan W. Parker, Director Eddie Games, Athletic Director Rusty Cotton, Program Director Billy Wilkes, Program Director Donna Gould, Secretary Jim Horne, Maintenance Technician Ed Peterson, Maintenance Technician 0 ' CRAVEN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE RECREATION/SHORELINE ACCESS PLAN ' TABLE OF CONTENTS I. INTRODUCTION.......................................................... 1 A. PURPOSE ........................... ................................... 1 ' B. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 1 C. .................... HISTORY ..............................• • • 2 ' II. IDENTIFICATION OF EXISTING FACILITIES .............................. 4 A. PUBLIC RECREATION AREAS .... ............................ ........... 4 ' 1. Cowpen Landing ........:... 4 2. Craven Creekside Park ....... ................. ........................ 4 3. Rocky Run Park ..........................................:............. 4 4. Spring Garden Landing......................... 8 ' 5. Brice's Creek Canoe Trail ............:............. 8 6. Water Access Facilities ................................................... 8 ' B. C. SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES ................................... PRIVATE AND COMMERCIAL RECREATION FACILITIES .................... 12 16 D. CITIES OF HAVELOCK AND N EW BERN RECREATION FACILITIES .......... 18 E. CHERRY POINT MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FACILITIES ................. 21 III. EXISTING RECREATION PROGRAMS AND USAGE ..................... 23 ' A. RECREATION PROGRAMS ................................................ 23 B. FACILITY USAGE ......................................................... 25 ' IV. COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF EXISTING FACILITIES .................. 26 A. BRUNSWICK COUNTY ......................... ........................... 1. Supply • 26 26 2. Shallotte............................................................. 26 3. Ash-Waccamaw.......................................... 4. Southport -Oak Island . .............. 26 27 5. Mill Creek-Winnabow-Town Creek ......................................... 27 6. Leland Area.......................................................... 27 B. CARTERET COUNTY ...................................................... 27 1. Swinson Park ......................................................... 27 2. Freedom Park ......................................................... 28 ' 3. Eastern Park.......................................................... 28 4. Mariners Park ......................................................... 28 5. Western Park... .................................................... 29 6. Salter Path Ball Field ................................................... 29 7. South River Park ....................................................... 29 I C. NEW HANOVER COUNTY ........................................ ..... 29 1. Park Facilities by Ownership ............................................ 29 2. County -Owned Park Facilities by Type ...................................... 29 3. County -Owned Park Facilities by Size ....................................... 30 D. ONSLOW COUNTY........................................................ 30 1. Hubert By -Pass Park .................................................... 31 2. Onslow Pines Park ................................................... 31 3. Stump Sound Park ..................................................... 32 4. New River Waterfront Park ............................................... 32 E. COMPARISON BETWEEN SELECTED COASTAL COUNTIES ................. 33 V. COMPARISON OF EXISTING FACILITIES TO NATIONAL RECREATIONAL STANDARDS AND IDENTIFICATION OF EXISTING DEFICIENCIES ................................................ 34 A. NON -SHORELINE RECREATION FACILITIES ............................... 34 1. Mini-Park............................................................ 34 2. Neighborhood Park ..................................................... 35 3. Community Park ....................................................... 35 4. Large Urban Park ...................................................... 36 B. STATE SHORELINE ACCESS STANDARDS ................................. 38 C. ANALYSIS OF CHERRY POINT MARINE CORPS AIR STATION RECREATIONAL FACILITIES .............................................. 40 D. ANALYSIS OF HAVELOCK'S AND NEW BERN'S RECREATIONAL FACILITIES 41 VI. FUTURE RECREATIONAL FACILITY NEEDS ............................ 42 VII. SURVEY RESULTS ...................................................... 44 VIII. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS INCLUDED IN CRAVEN COUNTY'S 1987 RECREATION PLAN .......................... 48 IX. GENERAL DELINEATION OF PROPERTIES FOR ACQUISITION/DEVELOPMENT BY TOWNSHIP ......................... 50 A. DEVELOPMENT OF ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY AND NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS .................................................. 50 B. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED PARK ACQUISITION/DEVELOPMENT C. BY TOWNSHIP............................................................ CONTINUED DEVELOPMENT OF CRAVEN CREEKSIDE 51 ' RECREATIONAL PARK .................................................... 52 X. PRIORITIES FOR FACILITIES DEVELOPMENT .......................... 54 ' A. B. CRAVEN COUNTY CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM (CIP) ............. 2005 FACILITY DEMAND ................................................... 54 56 ' C. LONG RANGE PRIORITIES ................................................ 557 D. FUNDING SOURCES....................................................... 57 2 1 1 w 1 n l . Potential State and Federal Shoreline Access Funds ............................. 57 a. Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access Program ...................... 58 b. Water Resources Development Grant Program .......................... 58 C. Fishing Access Program ........................................... 59 d. Boat Ramp Program .............................................. 59 e. Secondary Roads Program ......................................... 59 f. Other Programs.....................................I............ 60 2. Potential Local Funding Sources ................... .. .. ............ 60 3. Potential Sources of Non -Shoreline Access Funding ............................. 60 a. North Carolina Department of Transportation ........................... 60 b. Division of Archives and History ..................................... 61 C. Rural Tourism Development Grants .................................. 61 d. Land and Water Conservation Fund .................................. 63 e. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF) ........................... 63 f. Clean Water Management Trust Fund (CWMTF) ....................... 64 CLOSING REMARKS ..................................................... 65 TABLES Table 1 Craven County - Summary Assessment of Existing Water Access Facilities Table 2 School and Community Sites Used by Craven County Recreation and Parks Department...................................................... 12 Table 3 Craven County - Private Recreation Facilities ............................. 16 Table 4 Recreation Sites/Facilities Used By The City of Havelock Parks and Recreation ... 18 Table 5 Recreation Sites/Facilities Used By The City of New Bern Recreation and Parks Department...................................................... 20 Table 6 Comparison of County -Owned Recreation and Parks Facilities in Coastal Counties 33 Table 7 Craven County Classification of Park Sites ............................... 36 Table 8 Comparison of Craven County's Recreation and Parks Facilities to National Standards...................................................... 37 Table 9 Comparison of Craven County's Shoreline Access Sites ...................... 39 Table 10 Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Stations's Existing Demand for Additional Facilities 40 Table 11 Cities of Havelock and New Bern Combined Existing Demand for Additional Facilities........................................................ 41 Table 12 Total Year -Round Population and Percent Change by Township and Municipality, Craven County,1995-2005.......................................... 42 Table 13 Demand for Additional Park Acreage and Facilities ........................ 43 Table 14 2005 Facility Needs ................................................ 56 MAPS Map1 Cowpen Landing ...........................................'....... Map2 Craven Creekside Park .............................................. Map 3 Rocky Run Park ................................ .. ............ Map 4 Spring Garden Landing .......................................... . Map 5 Brice's Creek Canoe Trail ............................................ Map 6 Craven County Public Recreation Areas ................................. Map 7 Craven County Schools ............................................. Map 8 Craven Creekside Recreational Park Ultimate Development .................. APPENDICES Appendix I Craven County Township Map Appendix II Recreational Needs Survey 5 6 7 9 10 14 15 53 ' I. INTRODUCTION ' A. PURPOSE ' The purpose of this plan is to identify the shoreline access, park, and recreation needs of Craven County residents. This plan will provide the Craven County Recreation and Parks Department with a comprehensive guide for meeting those needs. Specifically, this plan includes an identification of existing facilities and programs, a comparison of existing facilities to those of other counties and to national recreational standards, and an identification of existing deficiencies and future recreational facility needs. 1 In growth impacted areas such as Craven County, real estate for shoreline access, parks, and recreation is often at a premium and needs to be acquired in advance before the land is lost forever to development. As a result, this plan will also provide a general delineation of properties for acquisition. Emphasis will be placed on the provision of new shoreline access sites. This plan was partially funded through the Local Planning and Management Grant Program administered ' by the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management. B. GOALS AND OBTECTIVES The Craven County 1998 Shoreline Access/Recreation Plan is intended to respond to the following goals 1 and objectives: GOALS Develop a shoreline access/recreation plan which will be consistent with the county's FY98 CAMA Land Use Plan. Establish priorities for acquisition and development of shoreline access sites and recreation areas. Establish a shoreline access/recreation plan which is supportive of 15A NCAC 7M.0300. Establish a shoreline access/recreation plan which is supportive of Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC) protection. OBJECTIVES Conduct a comparative analysis of recreational facilities in Craven County to other comparable eastern North Carolina counties. Assess the need for existing and future Craven County recreational needs based on national ' recreational standards. Produce a plan which is comprehensive in its assessment of recreational needs/issues (not limited ' to shoreline access needs/issues). ' 1 Provide a thorough assessment of existing public and private recreational facilities. Assess the impact of military recreational facilities on the county including demands which may be placed on county facilities by military personnel Produce a comprehensive recreational/shoreline access plan which is developed in close coordination with the Craven County Recreation and Parks Commission. Produce a plan which assesses the value of natural assets as active and passive recreational facilities. Produce a plan which is concise and easily understood. C. HISTORY Although the first Craven County Recreation Commission was established in 1968, the county did not actively undertake a recreation program until the spring of 1972. On December 2, 1968, the Board of Commissioners established the Craven County Recreation Commission, consisting of nine members. After further consideration, the County Board of Commissioners decided on March 3, 1969, that a 12-member Commission could better serve the recreation needs of Craven County. Thus, this larger Commission was duly appointed with the role of serving as an advisory board to the County Commissioners. However, no funds were available for recreation, so this original Recreation Commission disbanded. Although the Commission dissolved, the county's need and desire for a recreation program did not. As a result, on July 19, 1971, the Craven County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution establishing a new Recreation Commission with policy -making authority. With $10,000.00 allocated to the Recreation Commission in fiscal year 1971-72, the county took its first step toward building a long-term recreational program for its citizens. In the fall of 1971, the county entered into a contract with the North Carolina Department of Natural and Economic Resources by which the State prepared an inventory of the county's recreation facilities and surveyed the needs for recreation services. The results of this survey concluded that a strong need existed for recreation facilities and programs throughout Craven County. In an effort to procure lands and facilities for recreational uses, the Recreation Commission sought the cooperation of the Craven County Board of Education. On May 1, 1972, the Commission and Board of Education executed an agreement whereby the Commission could use school grounds and certain facilities after school hours. The Craven County Recreation Program actively began in the summer of 1972 with the use of grounds and/or facilities at Harlowe Community Center and the following seven schools: Albert H. Bangert Elementary Bridgeton Elementary Brinson Memorial Elementary Vanceboro-Farm Life Elementary Fort Barnwell Elementary Havelock Junior High Jasper Elementary 2 Additionally, land adjacent to the Garment Factory in Dover was loaned to the Recreation Commission for use as baseball fields. Activities during the first summer program included: softball, basketball, volleyball, badminton, hockey, board games, card games, marbles, and various arts and crafts. Special events included hobo picnics, ' fashion shows, hula -hoop and frisbee contests, inter -playground softball games, and a Track and Field Day. Activities continued throughout the fall and winter of 1972 and into the spring of 1973 with the ' organization of the following sports and programs: Nineteen baseball teams for children (i.e., Small Fry, Pony League, Little League) Nine men's softball teams Craven County Tennis Association consisting of 25 members Swimming classes Six youth (midget) football teams Twenty-two basketball teams for various ages Five Official Little League Baseball teams (organized by a group of men in the New Bern area) Five T-ball teams for boys Five softball teams for girls Four Senior Babe Ruth baseball teams were established with the help of the Recreation Commission Five women's softball teams ' ➢ County -wide Special Olympics Day for the mentally handicapped organized by the Recreation Commission Trip for mentally retarded children to the State Special Olympics which were held in Greensboro in May, 1973, organized by the Recreation Commission Craven County's recreation program for the years 1972-1973 was very successful. Activities remained ' basically the same in 1973-1974, with more special events being held and the expansion of the Midget Football League from six teams to eleven teams. The County Board of Commissioners allocated $38,697.00 to the Recreation Commission for that fiscal year. Craven County 9s Recreation and Parks Commission has experienced continued success and growth over the years. This is reflected in the annual budget allocations. Between fiscal years 1976-1977 and 1998- 1999, the Recreation and Parks Department budget increased from $70,805.00 to $614,134.00. ' Since its beginning in 1971, the recreation program has expanded to meet the needs of the county's citizens. Today, the Recreation and Parks Commission remains a policy -making authority, consisting of 12 members representing various areas of the county. The Craven County Recreation and Parks Department is staffed ' with a full-time director, an athletic director, two recreation program directors, a secretary, and two maintenance persons along with part-time positions of day camp counselors, maintenance workers, various instructors, gym supervisors, officials, scorekeepers, and many volunteers. In its first year of activity, the county recreation program had the use of nine sites. Today, the Recreation and Parks Department has the use of 19 recreation sites. 1 3 1 II. IDENTIFICATION OF EXISTING FACILITIES ' A. PUBLIC RECREATION AREAS (a county township map is provided in Appendix I) 1. Cowpen Landing ' Cowpen Landing is located in Township 1 just off River Road on Cowpen Landing Road. This 1.8 acre site, which provides access to the Neuse River, was donated to the county by the ' Weyerhaeuser Corporation. The Cowpen Landing site was improved in 1992 with the aid of a shoreline access grant from the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources administered through the Division of Coastal Management. Amenities at this site ' include a boat ramp, two docks, bulkheading, fencing, picnic area, parking, and security lighting. Map 1 illustrates the park site. 2. Craven Creekside Park ' The Craven Creekside Park site, purchased in 1995, is the county's largest recreation and parks facility consisting of 109 acres. This park is located in Township 7 on Old Airport Road just ' south of Craven Regional Airport. At the time this plan was drafted, this park included four soccer fields (one of which will also be used for football), one practice field, picnic shelter, playground, concession/restroom building, archery range, and maintenance building for Recreation and Parks ' Department equipment. This development completes Phase I and a portion of Phase II. Thus far, approximately 40% of the development expected to take place at the park has been completed. ' The remainder of Phase II includes the development of four youth multi -purpose (softball/baseball) fields; three adult softball fields; and one baseball field; fencing and bleachers for two adult and two youth fields; lighting for two adult, two youth softball fields, and two soccer fields. Four of the ' softball/baseball fields should be available for play in the Spring of 1999, then will be closed in the summer to allow for sprigging with a hybrid Bermuda grass. The final portion of Phase II will include the addition of fencing, bleachers, and lights for the remaining four fields as well as a restroom/concession stand at each location. Subsequent phases incorporate a gymnasium, tennis courts, 18-hole disc golf course, amphitheater, administration building, waterfront area, and arts/senior/environmental education building. The continued development of Craven Creekside Park will be discussed in detail later in this plan. iMap 2 illustrates the park site in its present state as of the Fall, 1998. ' 3. Rocky Run Park Rocky Run is a 5.3 acre neighborhood park located on Rocky Run Road in Township 8. This ' park was developed in the early 1980s and offers a basketball court, playground, picnic shelter, practice ballfield, and access which allows informal parking. I Map 3 illustrates the park site. 1 Legend ...:, Picnic Area :.xfti ff Boat Ramp ® Dock - - - - Bulkhead Fence �,. Handicap Parking Cowpen Landing W Parking Area a: •:Y:V Y. •.tiL•:• xv: •.ti•. Neuse River The preparation of this map watt pranced in part r ough a ymt provided by the North Carolain CoasW Mwia rrrarrt program, tmVh frmds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 197Z as amended. whiff is a*Wft and by the Oflloa of Ocean and Cents! Resource ManagameM. Nsdorral Oceanic and Abnosphsric Adrrinistw5m MAP' Craven Creekside Park November, 1998 ea ea Q�K�P9 Soccer Play Are Practice - � Soccer The preparation of this map was financed in part though a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, though funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972. as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. a = 715, ' 4. Spring Garden Landing ' Spring Garden Landing is located in Township 9, off Spring Garden Road, just north of West Craven Middle School. This site, which is actually part of the middle school property, provides access to the Neuse River just downstream from Cowpen Landing. Spring Garden Landing ' occupies approximately three acres of the 45 acre parcel which includes the school. Although the property is owned by Craven County schools, Spring Carden Landing is maintained by the Recreation and Parks Department. Facilities at this site include two boat ramps, fishing pier, ' additional pier between the two boat ramps, picnic area, bulkheading, fencing, two separate parking areas, and a path connecting the main parking area to the smaller parking area nearest the waterfront. The Craven County Recreation and Parks Department developed the fishing and ' boating area in 1991 with funding assistance through a North Carolina Fishing Access Grant administered by the Division of Marine Fisheries. ' Map 4 illustrates the park site. 5. Brice's Creek Canoe Trail Brice's Creek Canoe Trail is approximately 12 miles in length. The trail begins at the bridge on SR 111 1 and ends at Lawson Creek Park on the Trent River. Access points include: SR 1111 NC Wildlife Resources Commission Boat Ramp (5 mile mark) Creekside Park (6 mile mark) Merchants' Store (9 mile mark) Lawson Creek Park (12 mile mark) The canoe trail was funded in part through an Adopt -a -Trail grant administered by the North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation. The Craven County Recreation and Parks Department maintains the trail access points and signage along the trail. Map 5 illustrates the canoe trail. 6. Water Access Facilities In addition to the county -owned and/or maintained facilities already discussed, there are several water access sites scattered throughout Craven County which are either owned by the City of New Bem or are federally, state, or privately owned. Table 1 provides a summary assessment of existing water access facilities in the county. MAP 4 Spring Garden Landing X., X WALKWAY / ��` West Craven 4— Middle School 41, Parking Legend Picnic Area Boat Ramp Pier Bulkhead Fence Handicap Parking TM Vepowian of 2ft ff" wn *wwW in &Duo a WW W-i&d by Ow ConW Zom M&*9Vnw4 Ad of 197Z U wwdK -1ch is mft*&Wrsd by ft Or" of Open VW COOFN Ream= MWOOMOnt. NOWnsl Ocmft and Awmaptoft Adrkftabm 0 Lawson Creek Park ' �\ t �C 1n I1 m' Craven Regional Airport 9 u i y kside P k 17m Cree fMerchants Store 8 mi S mi Wildlife Boat Ramp * Access Points SRI IIII 2 Wildlife Boat Ramp 3) Creekside Park 4 Men harts Story 5) Lawson C,reck 2 mi 1 mi The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina .Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Neuse River MAP BRICE'S CREEK CANOE TRAIL; 0 10 0 I L I Table l Craven County Summary Assessment of Existing Water Access Facilities Site No. General Location *Type Typical Use **Condition Ownership 1 Union Point B Sport fishing, rec. I City of New Bern boating 2 Lawson Creek B Sport fishing, rec. I City of New Bern boating 3 Tidewater Marina D Sport fishing, rec. I Private boating 4 Merchant's Grocery D Sport fishing, rec. I Private boating 5 Brice's Creek Access A Sport fishing, rec. I NC Wildlife boating 6 Neuse River Estates C Sport fishing, rec. I Private boating 7 Fairfield Harbour D Sport fishing, rec. I Private Marina boating 8 River Bend Marina D Sport fishing, rec. I Private boating 9 Glenburnie Park B Sport fishing, rec.. I _ City of New Bern boating 10 Bridgeton Access Area A Sport fishing I NC Wildlife 1 1 Oak Ridge B Sport fishing U Private 12 Street's Ferry Landing B Sport fishing U Private 13 Pitch Kettle C Sport fishing U Private 14 Core Creek Landing D Sport fishing I Private 15 Turkey Quarter Creek D Sport fishing I Private 16 Ingram's Landing B Sport fishing U Private 17 Cahoogue Creek B Sport fishing, rec. I Croatan National Landing boating Forest 18 Matthews Point D Sport fishing, rec. U Private boating 19 Godfrey Creek Estates D Sport fishing, rec. U Private Landing boating 20 Neuse River B Swimming, I Croatan National Recreation Area camping, Forest picnicking 21 Fishers' Landing B Sport fishing, U Croatan National picnicking, Forest primitive camping 11 Table 1 (continued) Site No. General Location *Type Typical Use **Condition Ownership 22 Flanners Beach A Camping, boating I Croatan National Forest *A - NC Wildlife Facility **I - Improved B - Public/Informal (Traditional) U - Unimproved C - Private/Restricted D - Private/Fee Source: Craven County Recreation and Parks Department. Map 6 illustrates the general location of the county's public recreation areas. B. SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES Craven County has traditionally relied upon the recreation facilities of schools and communities throughout the county for its recreation programs. However, the Recreation and Parks Department is becoming more and more independent in the provision of services as its facilities are expanded. The following table lists the school sites and community facilities used by the Craven County Recreation and Parks Department. Table 2 School and Community Sites Used by Craven County Recreation and Parks Department Site Township Facilities Craven Community College 8 4 tennis courts - lighted 1 soccer field - lighted A. H. Bangert Elementary School 8 Play apparatus (jungle gym, monkey bars) 1 practice baseball field multi -purpose hard surface area with 2 basketball goals Cafeteria Mini -gymnasium Vanceboro-Farm Life Elementary 1 1 gymnasium School 1 youth softball field - lighted 2 youth baseball fields (one is a tee -ball field) - lighted 2 tennis courts - lighted H. J. MacDonald Middle School 8 1 gymnasium 2 outdoor basketball goals (paved) 3 soccer fields, 1 football field, 2 youth baseball fields J. T. Barber Elementary School 8 1 gymnasium 1 practice baseball field 1 soccer field �J 1 1 I 12 11 Table 2 (continued) Site Township Facilities West Craven High School 1 1 gymnasium* 1 football field/stands - lighted 4 tennis courts - 2 lighted 1 baseball field - lighted* 2 softball fields West Craven Middle School 1 1 gymnasium* 1 youth baseball field - not lighted 1 softball field - not lighted 1 football field - not lighted New Bern High School 8 8 tennis courts 1 gymnasium* 1 track 1 baseball field - lighted* 1 soccer/football field - lighted* 1 practice field - lighted* 2 softball fields James W. Smith Elementary School 3 Playground 1 youth baseball field 3 soccer fields Brinson Memorial Elementary School 7 1 softball field - lighted Nature/exercise trail Gymnasium Playground Amphitheater Grover C. Fields Middle School 8 1 track I gymnasium 1 soccer/football field 1 baseball field 1 auditorium 5 tennis courts Trent Park Elementary School 8 Playground 2 outdoor basketball goals (paved) Multi -purpose room Tri-Community Fire Department 2 1 practice baseball field Harlowe Community 5 1 practice baseball field 1 outdoor basketball court 1 picnic shelter Restrooms Playground *Facilities not currently used by Craven County. However, these facilities are available for future use. Source: Craven County Recreation and Parks Department. Map 7 illustrates the general location of Craven County's schools. 13 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 ' MAP 6 l _ GENERAL LOCATION OF COUNTY'S PUBLIC RECREATION AREAS PITT COUNTY 1 ' \ BEAUFORT COUNTY Neuse Riuer VANCEBORO ) Legend A Cowpen Landing tic L B Craven Creekside Park CovE.Cl- ) \. C Rocky Run Park \ t \ D Spring Garden Landing ----- Brices Creek Canoe Trail PAMucocouNTY 1 Union Point 12 Street's Ferry Landing JONES COUNTY 2 Lawson Creek 13 Pitch Kettle 3 Tidewater Marina 14 Core Creek Landing NEW BE RN 1 6 4 Turkey �us-+7 Merchants Grocery 15 y Quarter Creek *5 Brice's Creek 16 Ingram's Landing 2 y Creek Landing Cue 6 Neuse River Estates *17 Cahoo 9 9 7 Fairfield Harbour Marina 18 Matthews Point 8 River Bend Marina 19 Godfrey Creek Estates Landing Tre t.Rivet 9 Glenburnie Park *20 Neuse River Recreation Area 21 10 Bridgeton Access Area *21 Fishers Landing 11 Oak Ridge *22 Flanner's Beach ' 20 *Croatan National Forest /Croatan �,U Marine C. c orps Z,. Station � part Che Roint� N•c +o+ �! mina National <' - h kled 2, as \ _ a sorest} 5w,a, CARTERET COUNTY 14 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 THE PREPARATION OF THIS MAP WAS FINANCED IN PART THROUGH A GRANT PROVIDED BY THE NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, THROUGH FUNDS PROVIDED BY THE COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT OF 1972, AS AMENDED, WHICH IS ADMINISTERED BY THE OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEME� NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION. .N« wN µq ;may-_'-4- Ifl� loon .140 • rN rrr :I.n / IT:.i .• NN IYN� N 40 IHY • :Ipr •1 1.19 '• �i arr�• N» VAXCE� R • INS ImIYr� t! =i» �� .loll •� I• • 4" ANY NN •� I«Y • qif'• � at, lui •r N I•N: , ...• .. •1420 • ' 1•N '.., .luo 1«r \ ..1 11N It : irM :.,all 1 do IN N ..4iu {..• IZZ• IYN nos ,.I Irs! ..IYu ..•Iioo �� r,Yt mo : fl7 nn -----------;yam --------------+--._ JONES COUNTY •�•�� LEGEND SOIL, GRAVEL, OR STONE SURFACED ROAD HARD SURFACED ROAD "—� DIVIDED HIGHWAY =1 I� HIGHWAY INTERCHANGE To US. NUMBERED HIGHWAY N.C. NUMBERED HIGHWAY 1100 SECONDARY ROAD NUMBER - H++►+►++F RAILROAD ----- COUNTY LINE ------ CORPORATE LIMIT LINE INCORPORATED AREA NOT UNDER CRAVEN COUNTY PLANNING JURISDICTION 1-; EXTRATERRITORIAL JURISDICTION AREAS NOT UNDER CRAVEN COUNTY PLANNING JURISDICTION CORPORATE LIMIT LINES SEPARATING NEW BERN/TRENT WOODS, NEW BERN/BRIDGETON V 6^ Y BEND r 7! 1. ROGER R. BELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2. HAVELOCK HIGH SCHOOL 3.- HAVELOCK MIDDLE SCHOOL 4. HAVELOCK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 5. GRAHAM A. BARDEN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 6. ARTHUR W. EDWARDS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 7. W. JESSE GURGANUS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 8. BRINSON MEMORIAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 9. BRIDGETON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 10. OAKS ROAD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 11. J. T. BARBER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 12. GROVER C. FIELDS MIDDLE SCHOOL 13. TRENT PARK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 14. H. J. MacDONALD MIDDLE SCHOOL 15. BANGERT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 16. NEW BERN HIGH SCHOOL 17. BEN D. QUINN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 18. VANCEBORO-FARM LIFE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 19. WEST CRAVEN HIGH SCHOOL 20. WEST CRAVEN MIDDLE SCHOOL 21. JAMES W. Slv= ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 22. TUCKER CREEK MIDDLE SCHOOL OF BERN P481[/CO NEUSE MAP 7 LOCATION OF CRAVEN COUNTY SCHOOLS CgRTERfT / Ty :nN ••• ill - •noY , .nW / ..... /. Iq I- Ir 1708 n ........... ;m •• • W 1 •` •Ixlr , nM nlr \ , )b ,\ CROATAN MYO •` - HAVELOC !1 -III A T 1 0 N A L ''• /' /' CO. �� / CRAVEN COUNTY FOREST X-40`+ North Carolina t Dat SCALE 1 0 1 2 3 q MILES 15 ' C. PRIVATE AND COMMERCIAL RECREATION FACILITIES ' There are several private recreational facilities in the county. The majority of these facilities are related to residential developments or private clubs. The following list summarizes private and commercial recreation facilities in the county. It should be noted that several of these facilities are actually located within ' incorporated areas. Table 3 ' Craven County Private Recreation Facilities 1. Carolina Pines Golf and Country Club (semi -private) One 18-hole golf course One 25-meter pool Two tennis courts (not lighted) 2. Courts Plus One 25-meter indoor pool Five racquetball courts Nautilus and free weight room Aerobics room One outdoor pool Gymnasium Outdoor volleyball court 3. Fairfield Harbour Community Recreation building with weight room, jacuzzi, sauna, one indoor/outdoor pool Play apparatus area (swings and jungle gym) Nine tennis courts One miniature golf course One public 18-hole golf course One multi -purpose field used for softball, volleyball, and football One basketball court (paved) Paddle boats and pontoons 4. Fairfield Harbour Country Club One 18-hole golf course Four tennis courts Outdoor swimming pool I 5. Harbour Town Racquet Club Six tennis courts (4-lighted) ' 6. New Bern Golf and Country Club One 25-meter pool Six tennis courts (lighted) ' ➢ One 18-hole golf course 1 16 Table 3 (continued) 7. Neuse River Campground Camping; approximately 100 units One small pool One boat ramp Miniature golf 8. River Bend Community One soccer field One basketball court (paved) Play apparatus 9. River Bend Golf and Country Club One 25-meter pool One 18-hole golf course (guests allowed) Two tennis courts (lighted) 10. Woodmen of the World Youth Camp One pool Cabins One miniature golf course 11. Health Clubs: Kinsey johnnie Ray Fitness Center YMCA Exercise Today 12. Dancing Instruction: Dance Theatre of New Bem Down East Dance Margaret Fletcher Dance Studio Round and Square Dancing Wanda Kay's School of Dance and Gymnastics 13. Martial Arts: Five Dragons Studio of Self -Defense Coastal Carolina Martial Arts Karate for Kids and Adults 14. B & R. Guns and Outdoor Range 15. The Emerald Golf Club One 18-hole golf course One pool Four tennis courts - lighted 16. New Bern Motor Sports Park 17 ITable 3 (continued) ' 17. Rollerland Skating Rink 18. Billiard Parlors: ' ➢ Mickey Milligan's Mr. Stix Billiards ' 19. On the Wind Sailing School and Charter 20. Taberna One 18-hole golf course One pool Four tennis courts - lighted ' 21. The Links One 18-hole golf course ' Source: Craven County Recreation and Parks Department. ' In addition to these school, private, and commercial facilities, the Croatan National Forest, which contains 157,000 acres, also offers various recreation opportunities, such as camping, hiking trails, picnic areas, swimming (beach), and boating. The forest contains approximately 40 miles of streams and 4,300 acres of undeveloped lakes. ' D. CITIES OF HAVELOCK AND NEW BERN RECREATION FACILITIES Although Craven County does not assist in the planning for municipal recreational facilities, Craven County's residents do have access to facilities owned and operated by the cities of Havelock and New Bern. With the exception of a small park in Vanceboro, no other municipalities in the county have parks or recreation facilities. The following provides a summary of each park and its amenities within the cities of Havelock and New Bern: ' Table 4 Recreation Sites/Facilities Used* ' By The City of Havelock Parks and Recreation Site ' Recreation Complex (approximately 50 acres) H Facilities 2 concession stands w/restrooms 8 ball fields (6 lighted) 1 football/soccer field - lighted 3 tennis courts - lighted Picnic shelter Storage building 21-station exercise trail Play apparatus (whirl, spring animals, & swings) 18 Table 4 (continued) Site Recreation Center (approximately 5 acres) City Park (approximately 10 acres) Walter B. Jones Park (approximately 12 acres) Tarheel Park (approximately 1.3 acres) Sermons Park (approximately 3.3 acres) Stonebridge (approximately 4.5 acres) South Forest (approximately 2 acres) Village Park (approximately 1 acre) Quailridge (approximately 0.5 acres) Wolf Creek (approximately 2.9 acres) Bryan Blvd. (approximately 0.75 acres) Manteo (approximately 10 acres leased from Cherry Point) Facilities Multi -purpose building w/basketball court and game area Concession stand 4 backstops Play apparatus (swings, whirl, arch climber, horizontal climber) 2 picnic shelters Covered stage Play apparatus (swings, twirl-abouts, wooden climber, metal climber, spring animals, slide) Resooms Picnic shelter w/restrooms 2 basketball courts - lighted 1 small ball field 9-station exercise trail Play apparatus (swings, buck -about, whirl, slide, spring animals) 1 basketball goal Wooden structure w/slide, platform, and swings 1 basketball goal Play apparatus (swings, teeter totters, climber, whirl) 700-foot walking path Small fishing pier Wooden structure w/slide, platform, and swing Not developed Not developed Not developed 4 picnic areas 1 concession stand w/restrooms 2 baseball fields 1 soccer field * This table does not include school facilities utilized by the City of Havelock. L� r F I�� 19 ' Table 5 Recreation Sites/Facilities Used By The City of New Bern Recreation and Parks Department* 1 Site Facilities Seth West Parrott Park (approximately 25 15,000 SF West New Bern Recreation Center acres) 4 tennis courts (2 lighted) ' 2 lighted baseball fields 2 lighted Little League fields 3 field houses with restrooms 1 outside restroom building ' l basketball court Picnic tables Large playground area D.E. Henderson Park (approximately 22 15,000 SF Stanley White Recreation Center acres) 2 lighted ball fields 2 lighted basketball courts ' 1 picnic shelter Play equipment Restrooms Tryon Village Park (approximately 1 acre) Play equipment Picnic tables Grills Benches Fort Totten Park (approximately 5 acres) Lighted softball field ' Playground area Restrooms Storage building Kafer Park (approximately 3 acres) Lighted softball field Parking lot George Street Park (approximately 2 acres) Lighted practice field ' Restrooms 2 tennis courts Pierce Park and Field (approximately 3 acres) Basketball court 2 lighted Little League fields Play equipment ' Restrooms Concession stand Monk -Mallard Park (approximately 2 acres) Picnic tables Grills Speight Park (approximately 'h acre) Landscaping 3 picnic tables 1 20 Table 5 (continued) I Site Facilities , Glenburnie Park (approximately 51 acres) Departmental maintenance facility Restrooms 4 picnic shelters . ' 2 boat ramps 2 docks Playground area ' Storage building Lawson Creek Park (approximately 140 Nature trail acres) Fitness trail ' 2 soccer fields 5 docks. 7 boat ramps Observation tower Union Point Park (includes Duffy and Cedric Parking M. Boyd Parks) (approximately 7 acres) Docks , Boat ramps Restrooms Picnic tables ' * This table does not include school facilities utilized by the City of New Bern. E. CHERRY POINT MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FACILITIES , Cherry Point's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Department operates numerous recreational facilities. These facilities are primarily for base personnel, but can be accessed by civilians if accompanied by military personnel. Although Craven County has no control over the provision or maintenance of Cherry ' Point's recreational facilities, their adequacy does have an indirect effect on the demand for county -owned and operated facilities. If recreational needs are not met on base, military personnel will go elsewhere to fulfill their needs. As a result, a summary of existing facilities at Cherry Point has been provided below and ' an analysis of these facilities, to determine their adequacy, is included in Section V of this plan. The MWR Recreation Department consists of: , a 2,000-seat theater that is used for movies, concerts, cultural arts programs and command training. ' two (2) fitness centers (Devil Dog Gym and Hancock Fitness Center) that provide state-of-the-art fitness equipment and professionally trained instructors to assist in developing a training program. The fitness centers offer personal trainers, aerobics classes, nutrition classes, and other health- ' related seminars. 21 ' ➢ Sports Program/Marine Dome - a multi -purpose gymnasium that includes three regulation size basketball courts, two racquetball courts, three locker/shower rooms, two saunas, one steam room, and one volleyball court. The Marine Dome conducts intramural basketball, volleyball, and racquetball programs. Additionally, aerobics classes are conducted free of charge for active duty military personnel throughout various times during the week. There are five softball fields, one multi -purpose field and one soccer field. There are 10 tennis courts, four racquetball courts (other than Marine Dome) and seventeen outdoor basketball courts located in the enlisted barracks complex. The Sports Program provides activities from the novice to the experienced sports enthusiast. Intramural sports are offered in basketball, football (tackle and flag), volleyball, softball, racquetball, ' tennis, golf, bowling, rifle, and pistol. The Sports Program also offers rugby, boxing, track and field, wrestling, and baseball. ' ➢ Three (3) swimming pools - one located in the Staff Capehart Housing area; one located in the Officer's Housing area; and one year-round facility located adjacent to the Marine Dome. ' Recreation swimming, instructional classes, and water aerobics are offered at these facilities. Auto Hobby Shop provides state-of-the-art automotive equipment with professionally trained ' mechanics available for assistance in the easiest task of changing oil to a more detailed task of overhauling transmissions. Stalls and tools are available for "do-it-yourselfers" on a space available basis. Community Center provides instructional classes, meeting rooms, recreational equipment, and family -oriented activities. Classes from dog obedience to gourmet cooking are available. Craft Hobby Shop provides a full -service ceramic shop with molds, kilns, and instruction. Additionally, instructional classes are available throughout the year offering a variety of arts and crafts classes. The Craft Hobby Shop also has a fully equipped woodworking shop that offers the woodworking enthusiast the opportunity to build special projects. The Station Library provides a diverse collection of printed materials to include reference books, audio resources, computers with Internet access, and inter -library loans. The library is an excellent resource for recreational reading and continuing education. Youth Activity Center provides recreational opportunities for youths 6-17. The center provides structured events and opportunities for open play year-round. The center also provides year-round camp sessions for children enrolled in year-round schools and also provides an active summer camp program. The Single Marine Program provides recreational and social activities for Marines primarily living in the barracks complex. Trips, socials, sporting events, fund raisers, cookouts, and issues concerning quality of life are the primary focus of this program. Eight (8) playground areas scattered throughout the base and two (2) boat docks. 22 ' III. EXISTING RECREATION PROGRAMS AND USA GE A. RECREATION PROGRAMS The following is a list of the leisure activities provided by the Craven County Recreation and Parks ' Department. ' ORGANIZED PROGRAMS/CLASSES ➢ Step Aerobics/Exercise Classes (year-round) - Classes are held twice a week at various areas in the ' county when enough participants are interested. Fee charged. Call for class times. ➢ Tennis Lessons (spring and summer) - Beginner classes are offered for youth and adults. Classes taught at various areas in the county. Fee charged and pre -registration required. ➢ Summer Day Camps QuneJuly) - For children ages 6-11. Hours are from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at larger camps and 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. at smaller camps. Activities include arts and crafts, games, sports, music, and field trips. Registration fee charged and pre -registration required. ' ➢ Salt Water Fishing Class (March) - An in-depth and informative class on salt water fishing ranging from surf fishing to off -shore fishing. Covers technique, lures, and much more. Call for dates and time. ➢ Karate Lessons (year-round) - Beginning and intermediate lessons offered to youth ages 6 and up ' at J. T. Barber Elementary School. Fee charged and pre -registration required. ➢ Senior Archery (year-round) - Classes are offered for Seniors over 55 at Craven Creekside Park ' every Thursday at no charge. ➢ Golf Lessons (spring and summer) - For adults. Call for details. ➢ Do Obedience (spring and summer) - Puppy kindergarten and basic obedience classes at Craven g P g PPY g Creekside Park. ➢ Women's Softball (April July) - League play on weekday evenings at Craven Creekside Park. Concessions provided. Organizational meeting held in March. ➢ Men's Softball (April July) - League play on weekday evenings at Craven Creekside Park. ' Organizational meeting held in March. Entry fee charged.' ➢ Girls Softball (April June) - League play for girls ages 9-12 living in the western part of the county. ' Games played at Vanceboro-Farm Life Elementary School and Craven Creekside Park. 1 23 Tee -Ball and Coach Pitch Baseball (April June) - League play for girls and boys ages 6-8 living in the western part of the county. Games played at Vanceboro-Farm Life Elementary and James W. Smith Elementary Schools. West Craven Little League (April July) - League open to boys and girls ages 9-12. Games held at Vanceboro-Farm Life Elementary and James W. Smith Elementary Schools. Youth Soccer Program (August -November, March) - For boys and girls ages 4-8. Call 635-6700 for registration information. The league is sanctioned by the N.C.Y.S.A. Co -Ed Fall Softball League (August -October) - For the die-hard softball player. Games played at Craven Creekside Park Monday -Thursday evenings. Pop Warner Youth Football (August -November) - Open to boys ages 8-15 in designated weight categories. Leagues are organized in New Bern, Craven County, Havelock, and Vanceboro. Call 636-6606 for more information. Youth Basketball League (January -March) - Teams are organized at Brinson and Vanceboro for youth ages 7-9, 10-12, and 13-15. Games are played Saturday at various locations. Girls Basketball League Qanuary-March) - League play at Vanceboro-Farm Life Elementary School for ages 7-12. Men's Industrial Basketball (November -March) - Games played Monday - Wednesday evenings at J. T. Barber School. Team entry fee charged. Players must work for company. 30 and Over Basketball (year-round) - Anyone 30 years and older who wishes to play should meet at H. J. MacDonald School on Monday and Thursday from 7-10 p.m. No charge. SPECIAL EVENTS Senior Games (year-round) - Come alive at 551 Fun and fitness with events such as archery, basketball, billiards, croquet, football throw, golf, horseshoes, shuffleboard, softball throw, swimming, and more. Clinics held in March and April. Regionals in May and State competition in September. Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals given in nine age categories. Special Olympics (year-round) - Athletic competition for mentally handicapped individuals ages 8 and up. Competition held in track and field, tennis, power lifting, basketball, bowling, softball, cycling, equestrian, and aquatics. Easter Egg Hunt (Saturday before Easter weekend) - For children up to 10 years of age. Prizes for finding the "special" eggs. The Easter Bunny may also hop in! Held at Craven Creekside Park. I LI J 1 I 24 �I� ' Softball Tournaments (April -October) - Softball tournaments are held most weekends throughout the season at Craven Creekside Park. Concessions provided. Call for more information. u Sounds of Summer (summer) - Free outdoor concerts held throughout Craven County during the summer. Sponsors Craven Community Arts Council, Craven County Recreation and Parks Department, and New Bern Recreation Department. No charge. Trips - Various trips are offered throughout the year if there is enough interest. Trips offered in the past included Snow Skiing, Ice Hockey Games, and Deep Sea Fishing. Call and let us know where you would like to go. Road Race (September) - Annual Rotary Cup Road Race scheduled for Labor Day weekend. 5K race winds through Historic New Bern. Registration and fee required. Chrysanthemum Festival (October) - Outdoor festival in downtown New Bern. Arts and crafts exhibits, food, entertainment. Fall Classic Tennis Tournament (Fall) - Open to the public. Held at New Bern High School. Halloween (October) - Call the Department for our exciting Halloween plans. B. FACILITY USAGE The public recreation areas that the Craven County Recreation and Parks Department is responsible for maintaining and planning include: Cowpen Landing, Craven Creekside Park, Rocky Run Park, Spring Garden Landing, and the Brice's Creek Canoe Trail. Because these facilities are not staffed and there is no other means by which to monitor visitation, there is no data available for facility usage. However, some generalizations can be made. At the present time, the county's most heavily utilized park facility is Spring Garden Landing followed by Cowpen Landing.. The popularity of Spring Garden Landing is due primarily to its accessibility from population concentrations located south of the Neuse River. County residents residing south and southwest of the Neuse River must travel farther distances and cross the Neuse River to access Cowpen Landing. Although a number of people utilize the Brice's Creek Canoe Trail, visitation rates do not approach the level of that experienced at Spring Garden Landing or Cowpen Landing. Rocky Run neighborhood park is frequently used by residents along Rocky Run Road. However, this park is intended to be used primarily by the residents in the Rocky Run Road area and does not attract many visitors from neighboring areas. At the time this plan was drafted, the Craven Creekside Park was very much in the initial stage of development. However, by the fall of 1998, with the beginning of league soccer, Craven Creekside Park will be the most heavily used county facility. The Craven Creekside Park complex will be the center for recreational activity in the county for at least the next ten years. 25 U 1 IV. COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF EXISTING FACILITIES 1 The following provides a description of recreation and parks facilities at four other coastal counties in North Carolina. This information has been provided to give a general indication of how Craven County's facilities ' compare to those of other counties. These descriptions include only those facilities owned and maintained by each county. Recreation facilities located within incorporated areas have not been included in these descriptions. A. BRUNSWICK COUNTY (Unincorporated population - 41,118) ' During the decade of the 1980s, the county built a series of area parks - one in the general Leland area, one in the Southport -Oak Island area, one in the Mill Creek-Winnabow-Town Creek area, one at Shallotte, one at Supply, and one in the Ash-Waccamaw area. Community centers have been built in two of these 1 parks, and three other centers have been built as separate operations in the Cedar Grove -Holden Beach area, the Northwest Community -Sandy Creek area, and in the Town of Leland. Major amenities at each of the above -mentioned county parks are as follows: Supply 1 ➢ Concession stand with restrooms Two little league fields Two tennis courts 1 ➢ Two picnic shelters One softball field ' ➢ One basketball court One multi -purpose field One community building ' 2. Shallotte ' Concession stand with restrooms One little league field Two tennis courts 1 ➢ Three picnic shelters One basketball court One playground area ' 3. Ash-Waccamaw 1 Concession stand with restrooms Two tennis courts One picnic shelter ' ➢ One softball field One multi -purpose field One community building One playground area 1 26 4. Southport -Oak Island Concession stand with restrooms Two tennis courts Two picnic shelters Two softball fields One basketball court One multi -purpose field One playground area 5. Mill Creek-Winnabow-Town Creek Concession stand with restrooms Two tennis courts One picnic shelter Two softball fields One community building One playground area 6. Leland Area Concession stand with restrooms Four tennis courts Four picnic shelters Four softball fields Two basketball courts One multi -purpose field One playground area In addition, the county Parks and Recreation Department maintains and operates a number of other smaller park and recreation facilities, and has maintenance service agreements for certain facilities within the county school system. B. CARTERET COUNTY (Unincorporated population - 33,991) 1. Swinson Park 34 acres One of the county's larger parks. Swinson Park is the primary active recreation facility for central Carteret County. All of the soccer fields, except one, are overlaid on baseball/softball outfields and limited to seasonal play. Likewise, the majority of the fields listed are youth soccer fields, not full size regulation fields. Facilities include: One 200' youth baseball/softball field with lights One 200' youth baseball/softball field without lights One 300' adult baseball/softball field with lights One 300' adult baseball/softball field without lights 27 One backstop ' Four soccer fields (3 fields overlap ballfields) One basketball court (full) Two tennis courts One picnic shelter One playground One concession stand/restroom ' 2. Freedom Park 25 acres A major facility within the county's active recreation system, this park serves central Carteret County. All soccer fields listed are overlaid on baseball/softball fields, and limited to seasonal play. Current facilities include: Two 200' youth baseball/softball fields One 200' youth baseball/softball field without lights ' ➢ One 300' adult baseball/softball field with lights Three backstops (practice) Three soccer/football fields (fields overlap ballfields) One basketball court One playground One restroom/storage room 3. Eastern Park 15 acres This park, along with Mariners Park, provides recreation opportunities for Eastern Carteret County. All soccer fields listed are overlaid on baseball/softba l fields, and are limited to seasonal play. Facilities include: One 200' youth baseball/softball field with lights One 340' adult baseball/softball field with lights Three soccer fields/One football Two backstops/T-ball practice ➢ Two tennis courts (need repairs) ' One playground One restroom ' 4. Mariners Park 20 acres The eastern most park in the county. This park, along with Eastern Park, provide most of the current outdoor active recreation opportunities in Eastern Carteret County. Facilities include: ' ➢ One 200' youth baseball/softball field without lights One 300' adult baseball/softball field with lights Two tennis courts (needs repairs, may be converted to basketball court) 28 5. Western Park 30 acres The county's primary active recreation facility for Western Carteret County. Existing facilities include: One 200' youth baseball/softball field with lights One 200' youth baseball/softball field without lights One 300' adult baseball/softball field with lights Three soccer fields One playground One concession stand/restroom One community center 6. Salter Path Ball Field 3 acres This small park is difficult to access, but provides a much needed Little League field in the Salter Path area. Current facilities include: One 260' youth baseball/softball field without lights One restroom building 7. South River Park 9 acres Carteret County's newest park offers a playground. C. NEW HANOVER COUNTY (Unincorporated population - 71,869) 1. Park Facilities by Ownership County -owned: 10 parks and 1 trail Leased: 2 parks School Parks (Leased): 9 parks Beach Access Areas (Public): 7 access areas 2. County -Owned Park Facilities by Type 2 Little League Baseball Fields 5 Soccer Fields 8 Tennis Courts 9 Picnic Shelters 2 Softball Fields 5 Children's Playgrounds 20 Multi -Purpose Fields 3 Basketball Courts 1 Walking Trail ►W 1 1 ➢ 4 Restroom/Concession Buildings 3. County -Owned Park Facilities by Size ➢ Ogden Park 125 acres ➢ Hugh MacRae Park 110 acres ➢ Castle Hayne Park 54 acres ➢ Arrowhead Park 21 acres ➢ Hugh MacRae Athletic Complex 20 acres ➢ Fawn Creek Park 11 acres ➢ Parkwood Recreation Area 7 acres ➢ King's Grant Park 5 acres ➢ Monterey Heights Park 2.5 acres ➢ Blue Clay Road Adventure Park 200 acres Total 555.5 acres ➢ Summer Rest Trail 0.7 miles D. ONSLOW COUNTY (Unincorporated population - 69,838) Onslow County's Parks and Recreation Department maintains four regional beach access sites in North Topsail Beach. The following provides a description of these sites. No. 1 - Located on SR 1568, just past the New River Fishing Pier at North Topsail Beach. Features a ramp and walkway to the ocean (accessible to the handicapped), restrooms, showers, and a gravel parking lot for 66 vehicles on approximately 1 acre. No. 2 - Located on NC 210 four miles southeast of the North Topsail Beach high-rise bridge. Features an elevated wooden pavilion, an observation deck on the oceanfront, restrooms, showers and gravel parking lots for 290 vehicles on approximately four (4) acres. Also includes a Nature Trail, which features a platform overlooking the sound, picnic tables, and benches in a wetlands environment. ' No. 3 - Located past the St. Regis Hotel at the mouth of the New River at North Topsail Beach. This area has traditionally been a favorite place for surf fishing. The park has 700 ft. frontage facing New River Inlet. No. 4 - This facility opened in 1992 and is located on SR 1568 approximately one mile from NC 210. It is the county's newest beach access site and features an elevated wooden observation deck ' on the ocean, a ramp to the beach for the handicapped, restrooms, showers, concession area and parking for 173 vehicles. Phase II expansion on the sound side of SR 1568 will add additional amenities to the 13-acre site. 30 Onslow County also maintains 13 shoreline access facilities in North Topsail Beach. In addition to the four beach access sites, Onslow County maintains three developed district parks, which combined occupy approximately 148 acres. In addition, the county recently acquired approximately 195 acres for the development of a new park near Richlands. The following provides a description of the facilities at each of the county's developed parks: 1. Hubert By -Pass Park This park is a 41-acre predominantly passive park located off Highway 24, approximately six miles east of Jacksonville. Facilities include: 3/4-mile jogging/fitness trail. 1/2-mile nature trail with 27 interpretive stations. Two large open picnic areas and a picnic pavilion with grills and tables. Tot -lot, consisting of 1/2-acre multipurpose play area with swings, merry-go-round, teeter - totter, and sandbox. Paved basketball court. Sand volleyball court. Senior Citizens' area with pavilion and pig -cooking area. 2. Onslow Pines Park This park is a 55-acre park located approximately 3 miles south of Jacksonville, on Onslow Pines Road. Facilities include: Department Administrative Office. Multi -purpose outdoor arena. Senior Citizens' outdoor recreation area. Four lighted tennis courts. Two lighted regulation -sized basketball courts. Combination baseball/softball/football/soccer field. Little League baseball field. Covered pavilion for picnics and meetings with pig -cooking areas. Five designated picnic areas. 4/1 0-mile nature trail with 20 interpretive stations. Tot -lot area with numerous pieces of playground equipment. Two sand volleyball courts. Jogging -Fitness trail. 31 1 1 3. Stump Sound Park 1 This park opened in 1993 and is the county's newest park. It is a 56-acre semi -passive park located on NC Highway 172 approximately one mile west of Highway 210. Facilities include: i1,590 ft. nature trail with 17 interpretive stations. Tot -lot area with playground equipment. ' ➢ Picnic pavilion with restrooms. Paved basketball court. Sand volleyball court. 1 ➢ Open space. Two tennis courts. t➢ Two baseball/softball fields Two soccer/football fields 1,785 ft. fitness trail. 1 Pig -cooking area. 4. New River Waterfront Park 1 Although this park is located within the city limits of Jacksonville, it is of significance to the county. This facility is a small 1-1/2 acre park, located across from the U.S.O. at US 17 Business and New Bridge Street. This park was developed jointly by the City of Jacksonville and Onslow County. Facilities include a boardwalk, boat access, a pier, and parking facilities. 1 1 1 1 i 1 1 32 E. COMPARISON BETWEEN SELECTED COASTAL COUNTIES Table 6 provides a comparison between Craven County's recreation and parks facilities to those of the other coastal counties previously summarized. Table 6 Comparison of County -Owned Recreation and Parks Facilities in Coastal Counties Brunswick Carteret New Hanover Onslow Craven Average of County County County County County All Counties Little League 1 10 2 1 0 3 Tennis Courts 14 6 8 6 0 7 Softball 10 5 2 1 0 4 Basketball 10 2 6 8 2 6 Goals Baseball Fields 0 1 0 1 0 < 1 Football/ 4 8 20 3 6 8 Soccer* Total Park 304 136 556 365 119 296 Acreage Acres per 7.4 4.0 7.7 5.2 3.5 5.6 1,000 persons *Some of these fields are for soccer only, some are for football only, some are multi -purpose, and some are just for practice. Source: Respective County Recreation and Parks Departments; and Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. As indicated in Table 6, the number of recreation and park facilities owned by Craven County falls short of those provided by other selected coastal counties. However, many of these counties, including Craven, rely on school recreational facilities to help meet their demand. Table 6 does not take school facilities which these counties may utilize to help meet their recreational needs into consideration. School facilities have been intentionally omitted so that the recreation facilities provided by these counties can be compared on equal terms. 33 V. COMPARISON OF EXISTING FACILITIES TO NATIONAL RECREATIONAL STANDARDS AND IDENTIFICATION OF EXISTING DEFICIENCIES A. NON -SHORELINE RECREATION FACILITIES Craven County's existing park facilities may be classified as either neighborhood, community, or large urban parks. The National Recreation and Park Association provides the following descriptions and standards for each park class. Although a description of a mini -park has been provided, it should be noted that ' Craven County's parks system does not include any facilities classified as such. 1. Mini -Park Mini -park is the smallest park classification and is used to address limited or isolated recreational needs. Examples include: ➢ Concentrated or limited P o ulations. P I➢ Isolated development areas. ' ➢ Unique recreation opportunities. In a residential setting, vest-pocket parks serve the same general purpose as mini -parks and tot lots ' of the past. They are also intended to address unique recreational needs, such as: ➢ Landscaped public use area in an industrial/commercial area. ➢ Scenic overlooks. ➢ A play area adjacent to the downtown shopping district. Although the past classification mini -park was often oriented toward active recreation, the new classification vest-pocket has a broader application that includes both active and passive uses. Examples of passive uses includes picnic areas, arbors, and sitting areas. ' Locational Criteria: Although demographics and population density play a role in location, the justification for Vest -Pocket Park lies more in servicing a specific recreational need or taking advantage of a unique opportunity. Given the potential variety of vest-pocket park activities and locations, service area will vary. However, in a residential setting, the service area is usually less than a 1/4 mile in radius. Accessibility by way of interconnecting trails, sidewalks, or low -volume ' residential streets increases use opportunities and therefore is an important consideration. Size Criteria: Typically, vest-pocket parks are between 2,500 square feet and one acre in size. ' However, park areas less than 5 acres would technically be considered a mini -park. Anything larger, would be considered a neighborhood park. I - 34 2. Neighborhood Park Neighborhood parks remain the basic unit of the park system and serve as the recreational and social focus of the neighborhood. They should be developed for both active and passive recreation activities geared specifically for those living within the service area. Accommodating a wide variety of age and user groups, including children, adults, the elderly, and special populations, is important. Creating a sense of place by bringing together the unique character of the site with that of the neighborhood is vital to successful design. Locational Criteria: A neighborhood park should be centrally located within its service area, which encompasses a '/a to '/z mile distance uninterrupted by non-residential roads and other physical barriers. These distances might vary depending on development diversity. The site should be accessible from throughout its service area by way of interconnecting trails, sidewalks, or low -volume residential streets. Ease of access and walking distance are critical factors in locating a neighborhood park. A person's propensity to use a neighborhood park is greatly reduced if they perceive it to be difficult to access or not within a reasonable walking distance. Frequently, neighborhood parks are developed adjacent to elementary schools. Size Criteria: Demographic profiles and population density within the park's service area are the primary determinants of a neighborhood park's size. Generally, 5 acres is accepted as the minimum size necessary to provide space for a menu of recreation activities and 7 to 10 acres is considered optimal. 3. Community Park Community parks are larger in size and serve a broader purpose than neighborhood parks. Their focus is on meeting the recreation needs of several neighborhoods or large sections of the community, as well as preserving unique landscapes and open spaces. They allow for group activities and offer other recreational opportunities not feasible —nor perhaps desirable —at the neighborhood level. As with neighborhood parks, they should be developed for both active and passive recreation activities. Locational Criteria: A community park should serve two or more neighborhoods. Although its service area should be 0.5 to 3.0 miles in radius, the quality of the natural resource base should play a significant role in site selection. The site should be serviced by arterial and collector streets and be easily accessible from throughout its service area by way of interconnecting trails. While community parks should be strategically sited throughout the community, their locations can be significantly impacted by other types of parks. Most notable among these are school -parks, natural resource areas, and regional parks —each of which may provide some of the same recreational opportunities provided in community parks. The level of service these other parks provide should be used, in part, as justification for or against a community park in a specific area. Size Criteria: Demographic profiles, population density, resource availability, and recreation demand within its service area are the primary determinants of a community park's size. Although an optimal size for a community park is between 20 and 50 acres, its actual size should be based on the land area needed to accommodate desired uses. L H 35 11 4. Large Urban Park Large urban parks serve a broader purpose than community parks and are used when community and neighborhood parks are not adequate to service the needs of the community. Focus is on meeting community -based recreational needs, as well as preserving unique landscapes and open spaces. Locational Criteria: The location of a large urban park should be determined based on the quality and suitability of the site. Normally, a large urban park will serve the entire community. ' Size Criteria: A large urban park should contain adequate acreage to accommodate desired uses. In most cases a minimum of 50 acres is required with 75 or more acres considered optimal. Table 7 provides a summary of Craven County's parks by park class. ' Table 7 Craven County ' Classification of Park Sites CLASSES ' Neighborhood Park Community Park Large Urban Park 1 Rocky Run Park Cowpen Landing Craven Creekside Park Spring Garden Landing 1 As Table 7 indicates, out of the county's four park sites, one can be classified as a neighborhood park, two ' as community parks, and one as a large urban park. With the exception of Craven Creekside Park, the county's parks do not precisely meet the criteria for each park classification as defined by the National Recreation and Park Association. For example, one could argue that Rocky Run Park could be classified as a mini -park rather than a neighborhood park based on the population and area that it serves. However, Rocky Run Park has been classified as a neighborhood park based on its relatively large size (5.3 acres). In addition, based on size alone, Cowpen Landing and Spring Garden Landing are too small to be ' classified as community parks and should be classified as neighborhood parks. However, in this case, Cowpen Landing and Spring Garden Landing were classified based more on the area they serve than on the actual size of the parks. The spatial distribution of the county's parks can be visualized from a review of Map 6. This map illustrates a concentration of the county's parks around the City of New Bern and on the Neuse River, south ' of Vanceboro. As a result, there is a lack of county park facilities in the northwestern and southern portions of the county. Although Craven Creekside Park will ultimately serve all of Craven County, residents residing in the northwestern and southern portions of the county would benefit from the addition of a park in these areas. Generally, mini -parks and neighborhood parks should locate in areas of concentrated residential ' development. However, because Craven County is a relatively rural county with scattered residential development, it would not be cost and service beneficial for the county to provide additional mini or 1 36 neighborhood parks. If the county is concerned about the provision of open space within its neighborhoods, it could address this issue through amending its subdivision ordinance to include recreation and/or open space dedication requirements in non -shoreline areas. These requirements would place the responsibility of providing open space on the developer. An example of an open space dedication requirement has been included in Section IX of this plan. Through the addition of a couple of larger community parks (20-50 acres) more county residents could be served at a lesser cost to the county. Long-term recommendations for additional park facilities will be discussed further in Section IX of this plan. In addition to the spatial distribution of parks previously discussed, the adequacy of Craven County's recreation and parks system can be examined through the utilization of national recreation standards. These standards are based on the acreage of park sites and the number of facilities per capita. Table 8 provides a summary of Craven County's parks and recreation facilities and how they compare to generally accepted national recreation standards. Table 8 Comparison of Craven County's Recreation and Parks Facilities to National Standards STANDARDS FOR PARKS Existing Acreage Per Standard Acres Craven County's 1,000 Persons Excluding Additional Acreage Per 1,000 Existing Municipal Populations Demand Excluding Park Classification People Acreage (B) Municipal Populations* Neighborhood Parks 3 ac 8.3 ac 0.25 ac +93 ac Community Parks 5 ac 1.8 ac 0.05 ac + 167 ac Large Urban Parks (A) 109.0 ac 3.23 ac (A) Total Recreation & Parks 10 ac 119.1 ac 3.53 ac +218 ac (A) Since large urban parks generally serve on entire community standards for these parks have not been prescribed. (B) Based on a 1995 total unincorporated population of 33,704. The county's total municipal population in 1995 was 52,112. STANDARDS FOR SELECTED FACILITIES Craven County's Existing Existing Facility Demand Facilities Including Excluding Municipal Standard School Faciliies Populations** Baseball 1 per 10,000 persons 3 +0 League Softball 1 per 4,000 persons 7 + 1 Practice Fields Youth Baseball Fields Tennis Courts Basketball Goals (2 goals per court) Football/Soccer*** Amphitheaters Swimming 1 per 3,000 persons 1 per 3,000 persons 1 per 1,000 persons 1 per 500 persons 1 per 6,000 persons 1 per 20,000 persons 900 square feet per 1,000 persons 23 24 (16 of which are indoor) 16 +6 +5 +11 +43 +0 +1 +30,334 square feet *These columns represent the number of additional park acres the county currently needs to serve its existing population. **These columns represent the number of additional facilities the county currently needs to serve its existing population. ***Some of these fields are for soccer only, some are for football only, and some are multi -purpose. 1 37 Table 8 indicates that based on Craven County's 1995 unincorporated population of 33, 704 and national park standards, there should be an existing demand for an additional 218 acres of parkland in Craven County. In addition, Table 8 indicates that the county falls short of the per capita national standards in the provision of softball fields, practice fields, youth baseball fields, tennis courts, basketball goals, amphitheaters, and swimming facilities. However, the fact that Craven County's recreation and parks facilities fall short of the national standards should not be a need for concern for the following reasons: The Recreation, Parks, and Open Snace Standards and Guidelines publication was intended to provide national guidelines which could serve as an expression of reasonableness and adequacy with respect to quality service delivery. However, these guidelines reflect professional judgement, rather than an assessment of community needs, and no two jurisdictions are the same. Furthermore, most counties have found the national guidelines impossible to meet. Therefore, the pursuit of achieving national recreation standards should not take the place of common sense and recognizing the needs of the county. In addition, the fact that Craven County's geographical setting provides a unique opportunity for a variety of outdoor recreational activities reduces some of the pressure on the county to pursue national guidelines. The numerous shoreline access sites in Craven County provide access to open space along the shoreline where residents can enjoy recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, and walking. These access sites definitely add to the county's recreation and parks inventory and provide a service which the national recreational standards do not take into account. Finally, the county's acreage total for recreation and parks facilities does not take into account the number of acres accessible to county residents at school sites. The availability of those sites lessens to some extent the demand for additional county parkland. B. STATE SHORELINE ACCESS STANDARDS The public has traditionally and customarily had access to enjoy and freely use the ocean beaches and estuarine and public trust waters of the coastal region for recreational purposes and the State has a responsibility to provide continuous access to these resources. It is the policy of the State to foster, improve, enhance, and ensure optimum access to the public beaches and waters of the 20-county Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) region. Access shall be consistent with public rights of private property owners and the concurrent need to protect important coastal naturalresources such as sand dunes and coastal marsh vegetation. ' The State has created a Public Beach and Coastal Waterfront Access Program (PBCWAP) for the purpose of acquiring, improving, and maintaining waterfront recreational property at frequent intervals throughout the coastal region for pedestrian access to these important public resources. As stated in the introduction, this plan was funded in part through the Local Planning and Management Grant Program administered by the Division of Coastal Management. The North Carolina Administrative I Code (NCAC) 7M Section .0303 provides the following standards as guidance to local governments in the provision of public access. ' Public Waterfront Access Sites Local Access Sites - one per block; Neighborhood Access Sites - one per 50 dwelling units; ' ➢ Regional Access Sites - one per local government jurisdiction; 38 Multi -Regional Access Sites - one per coastal county. Parking facilities for these projects ' shall be based on seasonal population estimates. The state provides the following definitions for the various categories 'of access sites referred to above: Local Access Sites are defined to include those public access points which offer minimal or no facilities. They are primarily used by pedestrians who reside within a few hundred yards of the site. Generally, these accessways are a minimum of ten feet in width and provide only a dune crossover or pier, if needed, litter receptacles and public access signs. Vehicle parking is generally not available at these access sites. However, bicycle racks may be provided. Neighborhood Access Sites are defined as those public access areas offering parking, usually for five to twenty-five vehicles, a dune crossover or pier, litter receptacles, and public access signs. Such accessways are typically 40 to 60 feet in width and are primarily used by individuals within the immediate subdivision or vicinity of the site. Restroom facilities may be installed. Regional Access Sites are of such size and offer such facilities that they serve the public from throughout an island or community including day visitors. These sites normally provide parking for 25 to 80 vehicles, restrooms, a dune crossover, pier, foot showers, litter receptacles, and public access signs. Where possible one-half acre of open space in addition to all required setback areas should be provided for buffering, day use, nature study, or similar purposes. Multi -Regional Access Sites are generally larger than regional accessways but smaller than state parks. Such facilities may be undertaken and constructed with the involvement and support of state and local government agencies. Multi -regional accessways provide parking for a minimum of 80 and a maximum of 200 cars, restrooms with indoor showers and changing rooms, and concession stands. Where possible two acres of open space in addition to all required setback areas should be provided for buffering, day use, nature study, or similar purposes. Table 9 provides a comparison of Craven County's shoreline access sites to the state's guidelines as defined in NCAC 7M.0303 and previously stated in this plan. Waterfront access sites in incorporated areas and those which are federally, state, or privately -owned have not been included in this table. Table 9 Comparison of Craven County's Shoreline Access Sites State Guideline Existing Sites Public Waterfront Access Sites Local Neighborhood 1 per block 5* 1 per 50 dwellings 1 ** Regional 1 per corporate area 1 *** Multi -Regional 1 per county 0 * Local access sites include the five sites associated with Brice's Creek Canoe Trail (SR 1111, Wildlife Boat Ramp, Creekside Park, Merchants Store, and Lawson Creek). ** Cowpen Landing. *** Spring Garden Landing. Source: National Recreation and Parks Association and Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. 39 I Based on the state's recommended e ded standards for the provision of public access, Craven County trails the ' state standards for public waterfront access sites. Although meeting the state guidelines for the provision of local and neighborhood access sites may not be a realistic or obtainable goal for a county, emphasis should be placed on providing a multi -regional access site. Craven Creekside Park which currently serves as a local ' waterfront access site provides the potential to be developed as a multi -regional waterfront access site. The development potential of this site will be discussed further in Section IX of this plan. ' C. ANALYSIS OF CHERRY POINT MARINE CORPS AIR STATION RECREATIONAL FACILITIES ' Although military personnel use on -base recreational facilities first, if these facilities are not adequate military personnel will go off -base to meet their needs. As a result, an analysis of on -base recreational facilities is ' necessary to determine military personnel's propensity to use Craven County's facilities. However, it is likely that any military impact on recreation and park facilities would be much greater on those owned and ' operated by the City of Havelock then on the county. Table 10 provides an analysis of Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station's recreational facilities based on recommended national standards. It should be noted that this is not a complete list of on -base facilities because national standards do not exist for all of the ' facilities present on -base. Table 10 ' Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station's Existing Demand for Additional Facilities Cherry Point's ' Cherry Point's Additional Facility Standard Existing Facilities* Demand Baseball 1 per 10,000 persons 0 or 0 per 10,000 persons + 1 ' League Softball 1 per 4,000 persons 5 or 1.7 per 4,000 persons N/A Practice Fields 1 per 3,000 persons 1 or 0.3 per 3,000 persons +3 Tennis Courts 1 per 1,000 persons 10 or 0.8 per 1,000 persons +2 ' Basketball Goals 1 per 500 persons 40 or 1.7 per 500 persons N/A FootbaIVSoccer** 1 per 6,000 persons 1 or 0.5 per 6,000 persons + 1 ' Swimming 900 sq. ft. per 1,000 persons 3 pools totaling 18,000 sq. ft. or N/A 1,500 sq. ft. per 1,000 persons *Based on an average military population of 12,000 persons. ' N/A: Not applicable. Based on National Recreation Standards this type of facility is adequate to serve the population. Source: Cherry Point MWR Department. According to Table 10, Cherry Point's softball, basketball, and swimming facilities exceed the ' recommended national standards. However, to completely meet these standards, Cherry Point MCAS would need to construct one baseball field, three practice fields, two tennis courts, and one football/soccer field. As a result, based on statistics, it is more likely that military personnel would go off base for baseball, ' tennis, football/soccer, and practice activities than for the other activities listed in Table 10. However, it 1 40 should be noted that according to the Air Station's MWR Department on base facilities do not appear overloaded and the impact of base personnel on off -base recreational facilities should be minimal. Furthermore, Cherry Point MCAS is in the process of constructing a new football/soccer field. D. ANALYSIS OF HAVELOCK'S AND NEW BERN'S RECREATIONAL FACILITIES The recreational facilities operated by the cities of Havelock and New Bern are important to the provision of facilities by Craven County for the same reason as to the importance of on -base facilities: if these cities facilities are not adequate for their own residents then the tendency of people residing within these municipalities will be to go elsewhere to meet their recreational needs. Table 11 provides a comparison between the combined facilities in Havelock and New Bern and national standards. Table 11 Cities of Havelock and New Bern Combined Existing Demand for Additional Facilities Standard Existing Combined Municipal Additional Combined Facilities* Municipal Facility Demand** Baseball 1 per 10,000 persons 2 or 0.5 per 10,000 persons +2 League Softball Practice Fields Youth Baseball Fields Tennis Courts Basketball Goals Football/Soccer Swimming 1 per 4,000 persons 1 per 3,000 persons 1 per 3,000 persons 1 per 1,000 persons 1 per 500 persons 1 per 6,000 persons 2 or 0.2 per 4,000 persons 6 or 0.4 per 3,000 persons 16 or 1.1 per 3,000 persons 7 or 0.2 per 1,000 persons 16 or 0.2 per 500 persons 3 or 0.4 per 6,000 persons 900 sq. ft. per 1,000 persons 0 pools +9 +8 N/A +36 +69 +4 +38,457 sq. ft. *Based on combined municipal population of 42,730 persons for Havelock and New Bern. **Additional demand does not take into account school facilities utilized by Havelock and New Bern. N/A: Not applicable. Based on National Recreation Standards this type of facility is adequate to serve the population. Source: City of New Bern Parks and Recreation Department; City of Havelock Parks and Recreation Department. Although Table 11 indicates that the cities of Havelock and New Bern fall short of national standards, the number of facilities analyzed do not include school facilities utilized by these municipalities. The cities of Havelock and New Bern rely to a large degree on school sites and facilities to complement their recreation systems. As a result, the conclusion that these cities facilities are not adequate to serve their populations can not be made. However, it is conceivable that the people residing within Havelock and New Bern do and will continue to utilize the county's recreation and. parks facilities on a limited basis. It should be stressed that this plan is not suggesting that Craven County attempt to serve incorporated populations. The point being made is that the incorporated population will have access to the county's facilities and may have some impact in terms of their capacity to adequately serve county residents. 41 VI. FUTURE RECREATIONAL FACILITY NEEDS ' According to Craven County's Draft 1998 Land Use Plan Addendum, which utilizes data provided by the North Carolina Office of State Planning, the county's unincorporated population may be expected to reach 38,069 by the year 2005. To accommodate the recreational needs of approximately 4,400 new residents, the county will need additional park acreage and facilities. Table 12 has been taken from Craven County's Draft 1998 Land Use Plan Addendum and provides ' population projections for Craven County and its municipalities by township (Appendix I illustrates township boundaries). ' Table 12 Total Year -Round Population and Percentage Change by Township and Municipality Craven County, 1995-2005 % Change ' Township Municipality or Area 1995 2005 1995-2005 Township 1 Vanceboro 1,015 1,131 1 1.4% ' Unincorporated Areas 4,891 5,226 6.8% Total Township 5,906 6,357 7.6% Township 2 Bridgeton 516 508 -1.5% ' Unincorporated Areas 6,221 6,838 9.9% Total Township 6,737 7,346 9.0% Township 3 Cove City 569 531 -6.7% Dover 458 430 -6.1 % ' Unincorporated Areas 2,307 2,366 2.6% Total Township 3,334 3,328 -0.2% ' Township 5 Total Township 2,594 2,677 3.2% Township 6 Havelock 21,042 19,520 -7.2% Unincorporated Areas 3,553 5,097 43.5% ' Total Township 24,595 24,617 0.1 % Township 7 Total Township 6,870 7,244 5.4% Township 8 New Bern 21,696 30,157 39.0% ' River Bend 2,655 2,907 7.5% Trent Woods 4,161 6,983 67.8% Unincorporated Areas 4,829 6,005 24.4% Total Township 33,341 46,052 38.1 % ' Township 9 Total Township 2,454 2,617 6.6% ' Total Municipalities 52,112 62,168 19.3% Total Unincorporated Areas 33,704 38,069 13.0% Total County 85,816 100,237 16.8% ' Source: 1998 Craven County Draft Land Use Plan Addendum. 42 According to the North Carolina Office of State Planning, Craven County may expect a 16.8% increase in its population between 1995-2005. At this rate, the Craven County population would reach 100,237 by the year 2005. Approximately 38% or 38,069 persons will reside within unincorporated portions of the county. Table 13 provides a summary of parks and facilities demand based on national standards and the population projections that have been provided. Table 13 Demand for Additional Park Acreage and Facilities STANDARD FOR PARKS Standard Acres Existing Additional Acreage Cumulative Acreage Per 1,000 Acreage Demand Year 1995-2005 Demand Park Classification People Demand* (B) Through the Year 2005 Neighborhood Parks 3 ac +93 + 13 ac + 106 Community Parks 5 ac + 167 +22 ac + 189 Large Urban Parks (A) (A) (A) (A) Total Recreation & Parks 10 ac +218 +44 ac +262 STANDARD FOR SELECTED FACILITIES Total Additional Cumulative Facility Existing Facility Facility Demand Demand Through Standard Demand * Year 1995-2005 (B) the Year 2005 Baseball 1 per 10,000 persons +0 +0 +0 League Softball 1 per 4,000 persons + 1 + 1 +2 Practice Fields 1 per 3,000 persons +6 + 1 +7 Youth Baseball Fields 1 per 3,000 persons +5 + 1 +6 Tennis Courts 1 per 1,000 person + 1 1 +4 + 15 Basketball Goals 1 per 500 person +43 +8 +51 Football/Soccer 1 per 6,000 person +0 +0 +0 Amphitheaters 1 per 20,000 person + 1 +0 + 1 Swimming 900 square feet per +30,334 square feet +3,929 square feet +34,263 square 1,000 persons feet *These columns have been carried over from Table 8 on page 35 of this plan. (A) Since large urban parks generally serve an entire community, standards for these parks have not been prescribed. (B) Based on a county -wide unincorporated population increase of 4,365 persons Source: Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. Based on the population growth that has been forecast in Craven County, the county will need to acquire 262 additional acres for parks and construct numerous additional facilities to meet the national standards. However, as previously discussed, these standards are to serve only as a guideline and should be tailored to suit each individual area. In the case of Craven County, based on patterns of recreational usage, there is a higher demand for softball fields, little league fields and soccer fields than for additional tennis and basketball courts. As a result, it is in the best interest of Craven County to strive toward meeting the national standards for the facilities which the community demands and place less emphasis on the construction of facilities which are not in high demand. A prioritization of needed facilities will be discussed in a latter section of this plan. 43 I VII. SURVEY RESULTS ' All comprehensive planning projects should include some means by which to include citizen input. During the preparation of this Comprehensive Recreation/Shoreline Access Plan, the Craven County Recreation and Parks Commission provided the necessary citizen participation element. The Recreation and Parks Commission guided the development of this plan by reviewing the document section by section and providing input during several of its monthly meetings. (The history of the Recreation and Parks Commission has been provided in Section I, Part C of this plan.) In addition, at the onset of this process, ' each of the twelve commission members completed a Recreational Needs Survey which provided the necessary information to help guide the direction of future recreation and parks development. A list of the ' commission members is provided at the beginning of this document. This survey consisted of six questions designed to determine the recreational facility and program needs of Craven County. The following provides a summary of the survey results. The entire survey and its results are included as Appendix Il. Question 1: Rate the following in terms of need: Strongly Needed, Somewhat Needed, and Facilities Already Adequate. 1. tennis courts, lighted 17. golf driving range ' 2. tennis courts, unlighted 18. handball/racquetball courts 3. ballfields, lighted 19. weight training rooms ' 4. ballfields, unlighted 20. boat ramps 5. practice athletic fields 21. tot lots ' 6. gymnasiums 22. horseshoes ' 7. recreation centers 23. shuffleboard 8. basketball courts, outdoor 24. fishing access (i.e., piers) ' 9. jogging trails 25. camping (RV & tent) 10. picnic tables 26. nature parks 11. picnic shelters 27. marina wet slips 12. playground equipment 28. amphitheater ' 13. bowling alleys 29. horse training area ' 14. bike trails 30. sand volleyball courts 15. swimming pools 31. disk golf courses ' 16. golf courses 44 Results: a. Top Eleven Strongly Needed Facilities: 1. ballfields, lighted 2. gymnasiums 3. recreation centers 4. picnic shelters 5-9.* ballfields, unlighted bike trails bowling alleys picnic tables playground equipment 10-1 1.** jogging trails practice athletic fields *Items 5-9 from the survey results were tied in terms of priority. **Items 10 & 11 from the survey results were tied in terms of priority. b. Top Eleven Somewhat Needed Facilities: 1. disk golf courses 2. basketball courts, outdoor 3-6.* camping horseshoes sand volleyball courts shuffleboard 7-11.** boat ramps fishing access (i.e. piers) horse training area marina wet slips swimming pools *Items 3-6 from the survey results were tied in terms of priority. **Items 7-11 from the survey results were tied in terms of priority. C. Top Fourteen Already Adequate Facilities: l . tennis courts, unlighted 2. golf courses 3. horse training area 4-5.* golf driving range handball/racquetball courts 6-14.** amphitheater ballfields, unlighted 45 horseshoes jogging trails marina wet slips picnic tables shuffleboard tennis courts, lighted weight training rooms *Items 4 & 5 from the survey results were tied in terms of adequacy. **Items 6-14 from the survey results were tied in terms of adequacy. Question 2: What do you think are the three most important recreational programs offered by Craven County? Results: 1. Youth Sports 2. Special Olympics 3-4.* Soccer Basketball *Items 3 & 4 from the survey results were tied in terms of importance. Question 3: What are the top three additional programs which should be provided by Craven County? Results: l . Swimming 2. Youth 3-5.* Football Gymnastics Outdoor/nature *Items 3-5 from the survey results were tied in terms of priority. Question 4: What do you think are the three most important recreational facilities provided by Craven County? Results: 1. Creekside Park 2. Boat ramps 3-4.* Playgrounds Soccer *Items 3 & 4 from the survey results were tied in terms of importance. 46 Question 5: What are the top three additional facilities which should be provided by Craven County? Results: 1A.* Basketball courts Boat access Skateboard park Walking/running trails *Items 1-4 from the survey results were tied in terms of priority. Question 6: If you have indicated a need for additional parks and facilities, what is the best way to pay for these? % of responses a. Increase in ad valorem property taxes 33% b. Bond issue 75% c. User fees 83% d. Increase requirements for developers to donate and develop land 67% e. Other: — charge boat slip fee for all boats parked in county waters 8% — grants, community fund raising 17% — individual donations 8% 47 ' VIII. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS INCLU DED IN CRAVEN COUNTY'S 1987 RECREATION PLAN The county's 1987 Recreation Plan included park and facility recommendations to guide future ' development. Following is a summary of the recommendations included in that plan and their current status. ' 1. A large regional park complex (at least 50 acres and without water access) containing a mixture of passive and active recreational facilities, such as: ' ➢ Baseball and softball fields ➢ Jogging/walking/nature trails ' ➢ ➢ Picnic shelters Picnic tables ➢ Multi -purpose courts ' ➢ ➢ An indoor recreation center Swimming pool ➢ Tot lot ➢ Play apparatus areas ' ➢ Tennis courts ➢ Parking areas r Such a park should be developed in the west central part of Craven County in order to serve Township 1, 3, and 9. Status: Craven Creekside Recreational Park is currently being developed as a large regional park complex. However, the demand for a park facility in the western portion of the county remains. 2. Located to serve the eastern and more urbanized segment of the county, a small park (10 acres) without waterfront access should be developed. This park would contain mostly active facilities, such as: ➢ A baseball and a softball field ➢ Swimming pool and bathrooms ➢ Multi -purpose court ➢ Passive facilities, such as picnic tables and picnic shelters Parking areas would also be provided. Status: No progress has been made. The demand for an additional facility in the southeastern portion of the county remains. 3. A small waterfront access park area (about three acres) should be developed to serve the more populated areas of the county, i.e., Townships 6, 7, and 8. Such a facility could contain the following: ➢ Public boat access ramp ➢ Canoe and/or paddle boat rental 48 Waterfront walkway or boardwalk Gazebo with aesthetic vista Picnic tables and picnic shelters Bathrooms Play apparatus area Natural trail Parking facilities Status: Brice's Creek Canoe Trail and the development at Craven Creekside Recreational Park will satisfy this need. 49 IX. GENERAL DELINEATION OF PROPERTIES FOR ACQUISITION/ ' DEVELOPMENT BY TOWNSHIP A. DEVELOPMENT OF ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY ' AND NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS As previously discussed in this plan, the county's existing parks are concentrated around the City of New Bern and on the Neuse River, south of Vanceboro. As a result, there is a lack of county park facilities in the northwestern and southern portions of the county. Although Craven Creekside Park will ultimately serve all of Craven County, residents residing in the northwestern (townships 1, 3, and 9) and southern ' (townships 5 and 6) portions of the county would benefit from the addition of a community park in these areas. IBased on the analysis included in this plan, through the year 2005, there is a cumulative acreage demand for an additional 262 acres of park land in order for the county to meet national recreation standards. ' However, if the county were to simply sustain its existing ratio of parks acreage per 1,000 population (3.53 acres per 1,000 population), an additional 15 acres of county -owned park lands would be required by 2005. ' Craven County may choose to make the private development sector responsible for assisting in the provision of parks and open space in non -shoreline areas. This could be accomplished through amendment of the county's subdivision ordinance to include recreation and/or open space dedication requirements for non - shoreline areas. Such a requirement would place some of the responsibility of providing open space on the developer. The only open space requirement currently contained in the county's subdivision ordinance relevant to non -shoreline development deals with the provision of a buffer (strip of open space/vegetated area) between residential subdivisions and office, institutional, commercial, and industrial uses. However, it should be noted that the county does have a dedication requirement for subdivisions adjacent to a shoreline and having 200 or more lots. This requirement was enacted to insure that future land development within ' the county provides for public access to shoreline areas. Although the majority of Craven County is rural and open space abounds, it is important that open space/recreation areas be provided within walking. distance and within the confines of residential subdivisions. ' The following provides a sample open space dedication requirement which could be utilized in non -shoreline areas. It should be stressed that this has been provided to serve as an example only. "When a tract is subdivided for residential purposes, the subdivider shall dedicate a portion of such land for the purpose of park, recreation, and/or open space in accordance with the following ' requirements. 1. Area required. The minimum area to be dedicated shall be determined by the following ' formula: Average family Total number ,X size, last official X .008 acres/ X density ' of lots census person multiplier 1 50 Average acres/lot Density multipliers .0-.1 1.2 .1-.2 1.0 .2-.3 0.9 .3-.5 0.7 .5-.99 0.5 2. Standards. The proposed park, recreation, or open space must be considered by the county to be usable for the required purpose, shall abut or have adequate access to a public street, shall ordinarily consist of no more than one-half floodplain, wetlands, severe slopes, or otherwise restricted lands, and may be outside the area being subdivided if sufficiently close to serve the area. When the area includes a planned community recreation site, the dedication shall help establish the planned facility. 3. Acceptance, Maintenance, Development. The county reserves the right to accept, develop, and maintain the dedicated park, recreation, or open space in accordance with its determination of public needs. 4. Payments in Lieu of Dedication. When the area to be provided would be less than one acre, the subdivider may be required to make a contribution to a park/recreation/open space reserve fund to help provide recreation or open space for the additional residences being developed. The contribution shall be equal to the value of the raw land which would be required under the area requirement formula (if the subdivider and county cannot agree on the amount, the amount shall be set by the county tax assessor or a qualified appraiser). Subdividers who would be required to dedicate at least one acre may make a contribution in lieu of land dedication with the approval of the county. 5. Private Recreation Alternative. Subdividers may provide equivalent private recreation space and/or facilities to meet the needs of the area being developed. Such areas and/or facilities shall be approved by the county and such approval subdivision of such land before such plat has been approved by such governing body and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Craven County shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and the description by metes and bounds in the instrument of transfer or other document used in the process of selling or transferring shall not exempt the transaction from such penalties. The county, through its Attorney or other official designated by the Board of Commissioners, may enjoin such transfer or sale by action for injunction." H In addition to additional park acreage, the county will need to develop additional recreational facilities such as youth baseball fields, practice fields, and tennis courts. Priorities for facilities development will be I discussed in Part X of this plan. B. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED PARK ACQUISITION/DEVELOPMENT ' BY TOWNSHIP The following provides a summary of recommended park acquisition/development by township. A township , map has been provided in this plan as Appendix I. 51 Township* Recommendation 1, 3, and 9 Develop a new community park (20-50 acres) 2 No demand at this time for an additional park 5 and 6 Develop a new community park (20-50 acres) 7 Continue development of Craven Creekside Recreational Park 8 No demand at this time for an additional park *There is not a township number 4. Through the year 2005, the majority of the county's recreational facility development will be concentrated in Craven Creekside Recreational Park. At the time this plan was drafted, this park included four soccer fields (one of which will also be used for football), one practice field, picnic shelter, playground, concession/restroom building, archery range, and maintenance building for Recreation and Parks Department equipment (see Map 2). This development completes Phase I and a portion of Phase II. Thus far, approximately 40% of the development expected to take place at the park has been completed. Map 8 illustrates Craven Creekside Recreational Park upon completion (this map reflects the site plan as of March, 1996, and may need to be updated to reflect recent changes. If necessary, this will be done prior to completion of this plan). The remainder of Phase II includes the development of four youth multi -purpose (softball/baseball) fields; ' three adult softball fields; and one baseball field; fencing and bleachers for two adult and two youth fields; lighting for two adult, two youth softball fields, and two soccer fields. Four of the softbaftaseball fields should be available for play in the Spring of 1999, then will be closed in the summer to allow for sprigging ' with a hybrid Bermuda grass. The final portion of Phase II will include the addition of fencing, bleachers, and lights for the remaining four fields as well as a restroom/concession stand at each location. u Future phases of development include the construction of an office/meeting room/classroom building, gymnasium, environmental education building, amphitheater, tennis courts, 18-hole disc golf course, paving of the roads and parking areas, and the development of trails, additional picnic areas, playgrounds, and the waterfront area. In addition to the planned improvements at Craven Creekside Recreational Park, it is recommended that the county consider revising its plans to expand the shoreline access portion of the site so that it may serve as a multi -regional shoreline access site. The county may wish to continue its pursuit of real estate adjacent to the existing Craven Creekside Recreational Park site with the intent of increasing the shoreline area of the park. It appears that only minor changes to the original plan would be necessary to meet the state's definition of a multi -regional shoreline access site. In addition, it is likely that the N.C. Division of Coastal Management would assist in the funding of the shoreline access amenities. The state provides the following definition of a multi -regional shoreline access site: Multi -Regional Access Sites are generally larger than regional accessways but smaller than state parks. Such facilities may be undertaken and constructed with the involvement and support of state and local government agencies. Multi -regional accessways provide parking for a minimum of 80 and a maximum of 200 cars, restrooms with indoor showers and changing rooms, and concession stands. Where possible two acres of open space in addition to all required setback areas should be provided for buffering, day use, nature study, and similar purposes. 52 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 The preparation of this map was financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. AN LAM M.T a .ar%- / \ •� WMuw Comm LAW, ..:►ter r..Wr. PLAY MCA ►M PLAY MG "-r.. CRAVEN C.'Fn%xE'EXT-%7SQ1DE PARK ULTIMATE DEVELOPMENT 53 X. PRIORITIES FOR FACILITIES DEVELOPMENT A. CRAVEN COUNTY CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM (CIP) In April, 1997, the Recreation and Parks Department completed its CIP for FY97-98. This CIP outlined the county's recreation and park needs. The following summarizes the FY97-98 CIP: Vehicle for travel by staff Description: Replacement vehicle for travel by recreation staff. Cost: $24,000 Fifteen passenger van Description: Fifteen passenger van for travel in and out of the county. Cost: $23,000 Tractor ' Description: Tractor - with mowing capacity and front end loader. Cost: $19,000 �I 3/4 ton pick-up truck Description: 3/4 ton pick-up truck needed by the Maintenance Department. Cost: $18,000 Craven Creekside Recreational Park Description: Land acquisition and Park Master Plan phase have been completed (Phase I). Maintenance Building is complete and the U.S. Marine Corps is presently working on the development of the front 42 acres of the park. They will be developing four softball/football fields and the road and parking areas with these fields. Cost: The current work being done by the U.S. Marine Corps is being done in -kind, with the county providing $230,000 in costs for materials, seeding, irrigation, and stone. The amount requested in FY97-98 is for a PARTF grant match in the amount of $250,000. This grant would be used to develop two youth and two adult softball fields, picnic shelter, restroom/concession building, playground area, and passive open lawn areas. Havelock lighting Description: The City of Havelock took out a ten year loan to install lights on three adult ballfields at the 50 acre sports complex in Havelock. They are requesting assistance in repayment of the loan for an amount equal to 50% of the yearly loan payment. Cost: $11,836 Field Conditioner Description: This piece of equipment is needed for maintaining the softball/baseball fields. All attachments such as a rake, box blade, drag, etc., are built into the machine so that the field can be maintained with one piece of equipment rather than several attachments that must be taken on and off. Cost: $7,000 54 k Reel Mower Description: This piece of equipment is needed to maintain the athletic fields at Craven Creekside Recreational Park. Cost: $18,000 Vanceboro Parking Area Description: There are currently 26 teams in the Vanceboro area using three fields at the Vanceboro Farmlife Elem. School. There is very little parking available near the fields without parking on the road. The school has some property which the county could use for additional parking, but it needs to be developed. Cost: $10,000 Several of the projects listed in the CIP have been addressed during fiscal year 1997-1998 including the following: Tractor - $19,000 3/4 ton pick-up truck - $18,000 Craven Creekside Recreational Park - $250,000 Havelock lighting - $11,836 Reel mower - $18,000 Vanceboro parking area - $10,000 Thus far, the following projects have been approved for FY98-99: Continued development of Craven Creekside Recreational Park - $177,600 Havelock lighting - $11,836 Harlowe basketball court resurfacing - $6,000 The only funds allocated for the county's Recreation and Parks Department beyond FY98-99 are for the continued development at Craven Creekside Recreational Park and Havelock lighting: $261,836 for each fiscal year through FY01-02. The expenditure of the FY98-99 funds allocated to Craven Creekside Recreational Park will eliminate a portion of the existing facility deficiencies through the addition of the following: Four multi -purpose (softba%aseball) fields Three softball fields One baseball field H r 55 B. 2005 FACILITY DEMAND The 2005 facility demand should be based on a combination of the National Standards (summarized in Table 13) and assessment of local demand. Table 14 summarizes the facility needs through 2005 with adjustments made for budgeted improvements. Table 14 2005 Facility Needs Craven County's Budgeted Existing Facilities Improvements Unmet Need Baseball 3 1 N/A League Softball 7 3 N/A Practice Fields 5 0 7 Youth Baseball Fields 6 4 2 Tennis Courts 23 0 15 Basketball Goals* 24 0 51 goals or approx. 25 full courts Football/Soccer 16 0 N/A Swimming Pools 0 0 1 Amphitheaters 0 1 N/A N/A - Not applicable, no additional facilities required. *Includes indoor and outdoor goals. ' Although Table 14 indicates that Craven County has unmet facility needs for practice fields, tennis courts, and basketball goals, this should not be a cause of concern for the following reasons: t➢ In the case of practice fields, the county is constructing a total of eight ballfields 0 baseball, 3 league softball, and 4 youth baseball) all of which will be available for practices. J The provision of tennis courts should not be a concern because tennis has not commanded the attention in Craven County that it has in other communities. In fact, according to the survey results in Section VII, tennis courts were ranked as the top facility considered to be already adequate by the Recreation and Parks Commission. In addition, Craven County's number of tennis courts exceeded the average number of courts provided by the other coastal counties analyzed in Section IV, Part E. The trend in eastern North Carolina has been to decrease the number of outdoor basketball courts because many have become grounds for illegal activity. In addition, the number of basketball courts in Craven County exceeds the average of those provided by the other coastal counties analyzed in Section IV, Part E. However, the survey results in Section VII do indicate that basketball courts are considered to be somewhat needed by the Recreation and Parks Commission. 56 C. LONG RANGE PRIORITIES Current priorities for the Recreation and Parks Department have been established through the adoption of the FY98-99 budget (see Part A of this section). Thus far, the only budgeted projects beyond FY98-99 are the continued development at Craven Creekside Recreational Park and Havelock Lighting. This plan fully endorses the implementation of all phases of development at Craven Creekside Recreational Park which have been estimated to continue through FY01-02. It is recommended that the following priorities be adopted for FY02-03 and beyond. 1. Acquisition/Development of two new community parks (20-50 acres each). One should be located in the northwestern portion of the county serving townships 1, 3, and 9; and one should be located in the southeastern portion of the county serving townships 5 and 6. Facilities at these parks should include additional youth baseball fields and outdoor basketball courts. It should be noted that the demand for these park sites was also identified in the county's 1987 Recreation Plan (see Section Vill). 2. Development of a multi -regional shoreline access site (issue discussed pages 37, 38, and 50). , 3. Development of a county swimming facility. Swimming was identified in the survey (see Section VII) as the top additional program needed by the county. In addition, the demand for this facility is supported by National Recreation Standards. D. FUNDING SOURCES Funding for recreational facilities including shoreline development projects, shoreline access beautification, and shoreline restroom facilities, is increasingly difficult to secure. Government resources have steadily dwindled during the '90s. Federal funding of extensive municipal projects no longer exists. Development efforts are forced to increasingly look at local government and private resources as the primary sources of funding. This section will discuss the funding resources available to Craven County for comprehensive shoreline development. In order to implement a comprehensive shoreline development plan, the county should pursue both shoreline access and non -shoreline access funding. Potential sources of these funds are discussed separately. 1. Potential State and Federal Shoreline Access Funds The number of state and federal agencies funding public access projects changes from year to year, and so to a certain extent county officials will need to keep abreast of these changes through regular contact with these agencies. In general, it is a well -recognized fact among state/federal elected officials and employees that the demand for access to our coastal shorelines continues to increase and as a result, local governments are looking to other agencies to assist in bearing the cost of providing suitable facilities. �I I�� 57 r] Agencies that provide assistance in the construction and/or acquisition of public access projects include the Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access Program, Land and Water Conservation Fund, Civil Works Program, Marine Resources Commission Fishing Access Program, Wildlife Resources Commission Boat Ramp Program, and Department of Transportation Secondary Road Program. a. Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access Program The Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access Program is administered by the Division of Coastal Management in the Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources. The program makes funds available to local governments on a matching basis for land acquisition and public access facility development. Some examples include the construction of parking areas, restroom facilities, and handicapped accessible accessways. Grant packages are normally available in March of each year. In recent years, grants have averaged from approximately $38,000 to $48,000. The local government contribution must be at least 25% of the total cost. Contact: Ms. Kathy Vinson Division of Coastal Management NC Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources Hestron Plaza II 151-B Highway 24 Morehead City, NC 28557 Phone: (919) 808-2808 b. Water Resources Development Grant Program This program is administered by the Division of Water Resources in the Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources. The program makes funds available to local governments on a matching basis for general and recreational navigation, flood control, drainage, stream restoration, beach protection, recreation, and aquatic weed control. There are two funding cycles each year, with applications generally due by January i and July 1. State funds are available for the non-federal share of the project at the following participation level: navigation (800/6), recreational navigation (250/6), water management (66-2/30/6), stream restoration (66-2/30/6), beach protection (75%), water based recreation (500/6), and control (50%). Grants have averaged approximately $32,000. Contact: Mr. John Sutherland Division of Water Resources NC Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources P.O. Box 27687 Raleigh, NC 27611 Phone: (919) 733AO64 58 C. Fishing Access Program The Marine Resources Commission has a Fishing Access Program for the purpose of increasing land -based fishing opportunities. The program makes funds available to local governments on a 25% local/75% reimbursed matching basis for facilities such as fishing piers, bulkheads with cantilevers, capping jetties, and catwalks on bridges. Funds are available for projects on coastal waters under the jurisdiction of the Division of Marine Fisheries, but not for inland waters. Initial inquiry is made by means of a letter of notification of intent to apply to the Division of Marine Fisheries. Grants have normally ranged from $10,000 to $40,000. Contact: Mr. Murray Wolf Division of Marine Fisheries Department of Administration P.O. Box 769 Morehead City, NC 28557 Phone: 1-800-682-2632 d. Boat Ramp Program The Wildlife Resources Commission has a Boat Ramp Program and makes technical assistance available to local governments for the purposes of constructing boat ramps on either public property or on private property with at least a 20-year lease to the Commission. The Wildlife Resources Commission will construct and maintain the ramp; however, they have limited funds for constructing new ramps and are focusing efforts on maintaining the launching areas they have previously constructed. In addition, priority projects are scheduled in advance for a two-year period. Sites for possible consideration should be brought to the attention of Charles R. Fullwood, Director of the Wildlife Resources Commission. Contact: Mr. Don Tobaben Wildlife Resources Commission NC Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources P.O. Box 27687 Raleigh, NC 27611 Phone: (919) 733-3633 e. Secondary Roads Program The Department of Transportation's Secondary Road Program can be used for the construction of public roads that would be added to the state's secondary road network. One example of this type of project is the construction of a short access road to an estuarine access site on the Newport River in Carteret County. Contact: Mr. Jack Murdoch Department of Transportation, Secondary Road 1 S. Wilmington Street Raleigh, NC 27611 Phone: (919) 733-3250 1 59 1 Other Programs ' Other state programs for land acquisition include the Division of Coastal Management's Estuarine Sanctuary Program and Natural Areas Acquisition Program. These programs are generally funded, and projects must meet state and federal criteria and requirements. Usually, 1 Division of Coastal Management staff establish acquisition priorities; however, local efforts can bring potential projects to the attention of the state. Examples of this include both the Masonboro Island and the Permuda Island acquisition projects. In both instances, local citizens' efforts helped to make ' state officials aware of the value of protecting the properties in their natural state through public acquisition. ' 2. Potential Local Funding Sources The local government has perhaps the heaviest financial burden with respect to providing public access. Not only must the local government pay for land acquisition and/or construction (with or without grant assistance), but then it must also pay for the daily maintenance of the accessways and the long-term maintenance of the access facilities. Some of the potential funding sources available to the county include general fund revenues, general obligation bond revenues, impact fees, occupancy tax revenues, subdivision regulation dedication requirements, parking fees, volunteer efforts, foundation grants, and donations. . ' 3. Potential Sources of Non -Shoreline Access Funding a. North Carolina Department of Transportation Beautification projects are also funded by the DOT. The Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991, which reauthorized federal aid for highways and public transit for fiscal years 1992 through 1997, provided funding for "transportation enhancements." Enhancements include the following activities: ' ➢ Scenic easements, scenic sites, scenic highway programs, landscaping, and other scenic beautification. Preservation of abandoned railway corridors (including conversion and use for pedestrian ' or bicycle trails). Historic preservation; historic sites; historic highways program; rehabilitation and operations of historic transportation buildings, structures or facilities (including historic ' railroad facilities and canals). Pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Control and removal of outdoor advertising. ' ➢ Archaeological planning and research. Mitigation of water pollution due to highway runoff. Enhancements in North Carolina are handled through the state's Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) process. The county should contact the DOT and/or its DOT board member to discuss specific projects. ' 60 Contact: North Carolina Department of Transportation 1 S. Wilmington Street Raleigh, NC 27611 Phone: (919) 733-3250 b. Division of Archives and History The Division of Archives and History provides both planning assistance and specific project funding. Grants are available on a 50/50 matching basis to assist in the delineation of historic districts. In addition, state grants of up to $100,000 are available for the development and adaptive reuse of historically significant properties. Restoration of the Train Depot in Jacksonville (if held in public ownership) may be a candidate for these funds. The funds are competitively awarded and do not require a match. Contact: Division of Archives & History 109 E. Jones Street Raleigh, NC 27611 Phone: (919) 733-7305 C. Rural Tourism Development Grants Rural Tourism Development grants are available through the North Carolina Department of Commerce. Funding varies from year to year depending upon the state budget allocation. In addition, specific program guidelines are subject to change annually. The following provides a summary of the fiscal year 1994-95 program: 1) Description of the Program - The Rural Tourism Development Grant Program was created by the North Carolina General Assembly to enhance economic growth through tourism development in the rural areas of the state. The program for fiscal year 1994-95 consisted of a $400,000 fund intended "... to encourage the development of new tourism projects and activities in rural areas of the state." For the purpose of this program, the Travel and Tourism Division has adopted the definition of "Rural' established by North Carolina's Rural Economic Development Center, specifically those counties having population densities of less than 200 persons per square mile. This includes 85 North Carolina counties, but specifically does not include Cumberland, Gaston, Davidson, New Hanover, Guilford, Buncombe, Alamance, Rowan, Cabarrus, Catawba, Forsyth, Mecklenburg, Durham, Orange, and Wake. Additional consideration is given to more economically distressed rural counties. Proposed projects should be of a durable and lasting nature, visible in the community to inspire others to succeed, and capable of generating measurable, verifiable, long-term economic growth through increased tourism. 2) Purpose - The Rural Tourism Development Grant Program is designed to: Encourage the initiation and implementation of creative new tourism - related projects and activities having the capacity to enhance long-term economic growth in North Carolina's rural areas through increased travel activity; 61 11 F, ➢ Encourage the implementation of cooperative regional tourism development projects and activities, not exclusive of efforts within individual communities or among communities within a given rural county; ➢ Provide funds through grants to destination marketing and non-profit organizations for the development and recruitment of tourism businesses and attractions; ➢ Foster the development and growth of regional tourism marketing and development organizations in rural areas of the state; ➢ Leverage funds from non -state sources for tourism development projects and activities. 3) Eligibility - Any statutorily empowered tourism marketing/development agency, or legally chartered non-profit North Carolina organization in a designated rural county that includes tourism marketing and/or development among its major activities, may apply for funds under this program. Documentation of legal status, tax exemption, and a federal identification number is required with the application. 4) Maximum Grant Amount - No recipient or new tourism project received a total of more than $25,000 of these grant funds for the 1994-95 fiscal year. 5) Matching Formulae - The matching formulae favors economic growth in the less affluent areas of our state. Ranked on the basis of lowest per capita income, slowest population growth, and highest unemployment, organizations in counties 1 through 20 will be required to provide one non -state dollar for every four state dollars awarded. Those in counties 21-50 must provide one non -state dollar for every three state dollars, and in counties 51-85, one non -state dollar will be required for each dollar received from the state. 6) Appropriate Uses of Grant Funds - Appropriate projects for which grant funds might be used include: ➢ Research - marketing and other types of necessary research or studies upon which to base a long-range, tourism -based economic development plan, ➢ Planning - needs assessment and implementation of a long-range, tourism -based economic development plan; ➢ Capital Projects equipment purchase, renovation or construction of facilities. Capital uses are only permitted in support of program development, and expenditures for office equipment may not exceed 25% of the total grant awarded; ➢ Training - development and presentation of hospitality, management, marketing, and/or other types of tourism training programs to enhance long-term economic growth by improving a community's competitive position; ➢ Technical Assistance/Contractual Services - services provided by outside vendors under contract that will result in enhanced long-term economic growth and the creation of new jobs. 62 Contact: David Little , Department of Commerce Division of Travel and Tourism 430 N. Salisbury Street Raleigh, NC 27611 Phone: (919) 733-4171 , d. Land and Water Conservation Fund The Land and Water Conservation Fund is administered for the U.S. Department of Interior through the N.C. Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Recreation. This program makes funds available to local governments on a matching basis for land acquisition and recreation facility improvements. This program has provided numerous grants over the past years, but the amount of funds available is limited and thus grant applications are very competitive. Grants have normally ranged from $35,000 to $75,000. ' Contact: Division of Parks & Recreation NC Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources , 127 N. Cardinal Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 Phone: (910) 350-3900 ' e. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF) In 1993, the General Assembly established PARTF to provide funding for the state parks , system, local park and recreation projects, and coastal beach/estuarine access projects. The Parks and Recreation Authority directs expenditure of the funds. , Thirty percent of the trust fund is used for matching grants to local governments for public park and recreation development, renovation, and/or land acquisition. Counties and incorporated ' municipalities are the only eligible applicants and must possess long-term control of the subject property. ISchool administrative units may jointly apply with either an incorporated city or county. Approximately $6 million will be available for local projects during fiscal year 1998-1999, ' with $250,000 maximum on individual grants. Applicants must make a dollar -for -dollar commitment of local revenue to match state funds received under the program. , Contact: Division of Parks and Recreation NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources ' 12700 Bayleaf Church Road Raleigh, NC 27614 Phone: (919) 846-9991 ' 63 1 I [I f. Clean Water Management Trust Fund (CWMTF) Any of the following are eligible to receive a grant from CWMTF for the purpose of protecting or enhancing water quality: l . A state agency; 2. A local government or other political subdivision of the state or a combination of such entities; 3. A non-profit corporation whose primary purpose is the conservation, preservation, and restoration of our state's environmental and natural resources. No match is required; however, Trustees may choose to fund projects at less than 100% of the application request. Grant monies from CWMTF may be used for the following purposes: 1. Acquire land for riparian buffers for environmental protection of surface waters or urban drinking water supplies, or for establishing a network of greenways for environmental, educational, or recreational uses. 2. Acquire easements in order to protect surface waters or urban drinking water supplies. 3. Coordinate with other public programs involved with lands adjoining water bodies to gain the most public benefit while protecting and improving water quality. 4. Restore degraded lands for their ability to protect water quality. 5. Repair failing waste treatment systems: if (a) an application to the Clean Water Revolving Loan and Grant Fund has been submitted and denied in the latest review cycle; (b) repair is for a reasonable remedy to an existing waste treatment problem; and (c) the repair is not for the purpose of expanding the system to accommodate future anticipated growth of a community. Priority shall be given to economically distressed units of local government. 6. Repair/eliminate failing septic tank systems, to eliminate illegal drainage connections, and to expand waste treatment systems if the system is being expanded as a remedy to eliminate failing septic tank systems or illegal drainage connections. Priority shall be given to economically distressed units of local government. 7. Improve stormwater controls and management. 8. Facilitate planning that targets reductions in surface water pollution. Contact: Clean Water Management Trust Fund 2313-B Executive Park Circle Greenville, NC 27834 Phone: (919) 830-3222 r91H 1 1 XI. CLOSING REMARKS 1 Craven County has made tremendous advances in its Recreation and Parks system through development at Craven Creekside Recreational Park. The citizens of Craven County, the Recreation and Parks Commission, the County Manager, and the Board of Commissioners should be proud of what they have 1 accomplished. The continuation of this cooperative effort will be necessary to maintain the county's current level of service in response to a growing population and to implement the recommendations included in this plan. This plan will serve to guide the county's Recreation and Parks Department into the new millennium and beyond. However, it is recommended that the county revise its Recreation and Parks Master Plan at least every five years, re -assess its needs, and recognize its accomplishments. Sound planning results in sound decisions and seized opportunities. i 1 1 i 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 65 i 1 THE PREPARATION OF THIS MAP WAS FINANCED IN PART THROUGH A GRANT PROVIDED BY THE NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, THROUGH FUNDS PROVIDED BY THE COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT OF a 1972. AS AMENDED, WHICH IS ADMINISTERED BY THE ' OFFICE OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MAN f\ - _ -- --- --COUNTY ------- NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION. \ / wit e_ ti� •.rt« .� i If J r. -14 _ d`7Y•zx � r �• -- �•ff ,ttz' 4 '' 3 z 3 Z W i•n rzcz rta•: p �.n im gym: JONES COUNTY LEGEND •-•-•• SOIL, GRAVEL, OR STONE SURFACED ROAD ' HARD SURFACED ROAD DIVIDEC HIGHWAY ' Ic HIGHWAY INTERCHANGE �o US. NUMBERED HIGHWAY I N.C. NUMBERED HIGHWAY 1100 SECONDARY ROAD NUMBER } RAILROAD — COUNTY LINE ---- - - CORPORATE 12vff LINE INCORPORATED AREA NOT UNDER CRAVEN COUNTY PLANNING JURISDICTION EXTRATERRITORIAL JURISDICTION AREAS NOT UNDER CRAVEN COUNTY PLANNING JURISDICTION CORPORATE LIAtTP LINES SEPARATDJG NEW BERN/TRENT WOODS, NEW BERN/BRIDGETON : rnn b21, 01 r R 1, 2, 3, 55, 6, %, S, 9 TOWNSHIP NUMBER NOTE: THERE IS NOT A TOWNSHIP NUMBER 4. I APPENDIX I CRAVEN COUNTY TOWNSHIP MAP - - / CgAT COUNT` "4 iCp 40V / z rrai Hof $i 1 i r P� CS 7ft 114 /r\3\per ra NEUSE ( _� /, '�\ ne • ;ron \ CROATAN �.\ - CITY -• HAVELOCK ' uae ••; t,. NATIONAL 10, - m (• : 1pa[ FOREST /-l`•t,0 gum !gko: SCALE 0 1 2 3 A MILES 17 ms rn n. 1•S nrl 'fin . CRAVEN COUNTY North Carolina 1 Il APPENDIX II: CRAVEN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE SHORELINE ACCESS/RECREATION PLAN RECREATIONAL NEEDS SURVEY Rate the following in terms of need. Strongly Needed Needed Somewhat Facilities Already Adequate # of responses % of total responses # of responses % of total responses # of responses % of total . responses 1. tennis courts, lighted 3 25% 6 50% 3 25% 2. tennis courts, unlighted 0 0% 4 33% 8 67% 3. ballfields, lighted 11 92% 1 8% 0 0% 4. ballfields, unlighted 7 58% 2 17% 3 25% 5. practice athletic fields 6 50% 4 33% 2 17% 6. gymnasiums 10 83% 2 17% 0 0% 7. recreation centers 9 75% 3 25% 0 0% 8. basketball courts, outdoor 3 25% 9 75% 0 0% 9. jogging trails 6 50% 3 25% 3 25% 10. picnic tables 7 58% 2 17% 3 25% 11. picnic shelters 8 67% 3 25% 1 8% 12. playground equipment 7 58% 4 33% 1 9% 13. bowling alleys 7 58% 5 42% 0 0% 14. bike trails 7 58% 3 25% 2 17% 15. swimming pools 5 42% 7 58% 0 0% 16. golf courses 1 9% 4 33% 7 58% 17. golf driving range 3 25% 5 42% 4 33% 18. handball/racquetball courts 2 17% 6 50% 4 33% 19. weight training rooms 5 42% 4 33% 3 25% 20. boat ramps 4 33% 7 58% 1 9% 21. tot lots 5 42% 6 50% 1 8% 22. horseshoes 1 8% 8 67% 3 25% 23. shuffleboard 1 8% 8 67% 3 25% 24. fishing access (i.e., piers) 4 33% 7 58% 1 9% 25. camping (RV & tent) 2 17% 8 66% 2 17% 26. nature parks 5 42% 6 50% 1 8% 27. marina wet slips 2 17% 7 58% 3 25% 28. 1 amphitheater 3 25% 6 50% 3 25% Strongly Needed Needed Somewhat Facilities Already Adequate # of responses % of total responses # of responses % of total responses # of responses % of total responses 29. horse training area 0 0% 7 58% 5 42% 30. sand volleyball courts 3 25% 8 67% 1 8% 31. disk golf courses 0 0% 10 83% 2 17% 2. What do you think are the three most important recreational programs offered by Craven County? # of responses % of total responses 1. youth sports 7 58% 2. Special Olympics 5 42% 3. basketball 4 33% 3. soccer 4 33% 4. adult sports 3 25% 5. softball 2 17% 6. archery 1 8% 6. baseball 1 8% 6. senior games 1 8% 6. no response 1 8% 6. volleyball 1 8% 6. water access 1 8% 3. What are the top three additional programs which should be provided by Craven County? # of responses % of total responses 1. swimming 7 58% 2. senior games 3 25% 2. youth 3 25% 3. football 2 17% 3. gymnastics 2 17% 3. outdoor/nature 2 17% 4. baseball 1 8% 4. instructional classes 1 8% # of responses % of total responses 4. senior/adult 1 8% 4. Special Olympics 1 8% 4. tennis 1 8% 1 4. at do you think are the three most important recreational facilities provided by Craven County? 1 11 # of responses % of total responses 1. Creekside Park 6 50% 2. boat ramps 4 33% 3. playgrounds 3 25% 3. soccer 3 25% 4. ballfields 2 17% 4. softball 2 17% 5. basketball 1 8% 5. Brinson ballfield 1 8% 5. gyms 1 8% 5. picnic areas 1 8% 5. swimming pools 1 8% 1 5. What are the top three additional facilities which should be provided by Craven County? # of responses % of total responses 1. basketball courts (outdoor) 2 17% 1. boat access 2 17% 1. skateboard park 2 17% 1. walking/running trails 2 17% 2. additional facilities in Western Craven County 1 8% 2. ballfields (lighted) 1 8% 2. baseball 1 8% 2. basketball courts (indoor) 1 8% 2. bathroom/concession stand 1 8% 2. biking trails 1 8% # of responses % of total responses 2. football (youth) 1 8% 2. playground equipment 1 8% 2. F8% center 1 2.recreation shoreline access 1 8% 6. If you have indicated a need for additional parks and facilities, what is the best way to pay for these? (Check all you consider applicable.) # of % of total responses responses a. Increase in ad valorem property taxes 4 33% b. Bond issue 9 75% C. User fees 10 83% d. Increase requirements for developers to donate and develop land 8 67% e. Other (please specify) - charge boat slip fee for all boats parked in county waters 1 8% - grants, community fund raising 2 17% - individual donations 1 8% r it r rr r■ r r �r �r rr �r s �r rr r� �r rr r� rr u c. p O Q W W S u W