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HomeMy WebLinkAboutRecreation & Open Space Plan-19881 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1988 Richlands Recreation �? Open Space Plan Technical Assistance Howard T. Capps �Q Associates Wilmington. North Carolina PROPERTY OF DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE 1 � 1988 Richlands � Recreation 'W Open Space Plan Technical Assistance Howard T. Capps 0 Associates Wilmington. North Carolina The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant pro- vided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds pro- vided by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is ad- ministered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 1 1988 RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE PLAN Richlands, North Carolina Table of Contents Page I. Introduction 1 II. Relationship of Land Use Plan Policy, Capital Improvements Plan, Subdivision Ordinances to Recreation Development 1 III. Existing Recreational Facilities 8 IV. Environmental Character of Area 8 V. Recreational Standards and Population Projections 9 VI. Current and Future Demand for Recreation and Results of Recreation Questionnaire 10 VII. Proposed Facilities 11 VIII. Cost Estimate 12 IX. Implementation Alternatives 13 1 1 1 1 1 1 1988 Recreation and Open Space Plan Richlands, North Carolina I. Introduction Richlands' 1981 and 1987 Land Use Plans discussed the desire to provide more and better recreational opportunities for Richlands citizens. Since beginning the 1987 Land Use Plan, Richlands has adopted a Subdivision Ordinance which addresses the need to provide for recreation and open space in new subdivisions or make payment in lieu of dedication into a park/recreation/open space fund. Richlands officials are also planning or establishing an Extraterritorial Planning Jurisdiction (ETJ) to allow for planning and guidance of growth in areas surrounding the current corporate limits of Richlands. All of these factors make this an ideal time to -be looking at not only active recreation facilities and needs, but also potential open spaces that could be preserved for passive recreational uses. This open space, primarily along existing creeks, streams and small tributaries, would make an excellent greenway system for current and future generations of Richlands citizens. Prior to looking at existing recreational facilities, a review of the 1987 CAMA Land Use Plan and Subdivision Ordinance was made. This review was made to determine the impact of local plans and ordinances on recreational development. II. Relationship of Land Use Plan Policy, Capital Improvements Plan and Subdivision Ordinance to Recreation Development A. 1987 Land Use Plan Update The 1981 Land Use Plan established a goal to continue to cooperate with local school officials in the use of school recreational 1 fl 1 facilities. The 1981 Plan also established a goal to apply for Federal grant assistance to help the Town acquire land for the construction of a community -wide park. The 1987 Plan Update notes the fact that Richlands has com- pleted a park in the CBD area since the 1981 Plan was completed. This new facility provides both passive and active recreational opportunities; specifically, two tennis courts, two basketball courts and play equipment for younger children. Under the Goals and Policies section of the 1987 LUP Update, Richlands officials propose to continue the policy of working to pro- vide more and better recreational opportunities and facilities for Richlands citizens. The plan also stated that Town officials will continue to work to secure any Federal or State funds available for implementation of the recreation plan. B. Capital Improvements Program (CIP) The CIP includes construction of two basketball courts on the Trexler School property. The CIP calls for Richlands paying for stone base and goals with the County providing paving of the courts. This is shown as a FY88 project at an estimated cost of $13,315. C. Subdivision Regulations The Subdivision Regulations for Richlands define several terms that directly or indirectly relate to recreational open space. 1. Open Space is defined as an area (land and/or water) generally lacking in man-made structures and usually reserved for outdoor enjoyment. 2. Pedestrian walkways are dedicated public right-of-way limited to pedestrian use. 1 ' 3. Planned Unit Development (PUD) includes in its definition the requirement that common open space must be an element of the plan. 4. Public Way - An alley, avenue, boulevard, bridge, channel, ditch easement, express freeway, highway, land, parkway, right-of- way, road, sidewalk, street subway, tunnel, viaduct, walk or other ways in which the general public or a public entity have a right, or ' which are dedicated, whether improved or not. S. Right -of -Way - A strip of land taken or dedicated for use as ra public way. In addition to the roadway, it normally incorporates ' the curbs, lawn strips, sidewalks, lighting, water and sewer lines, and drainage facilities, and may include special features (required by the topography or treatment) such as grade separation, landscaped areas, viaducts and bridges. 6. Section 9-3-23 (c)(7) allows for public use of any park sites shown on plat being approved unless otherwise noted. Public use does not constitute or imply a responsibility to open or maintain such facilities or public ways until the Board of Aldermen determines that it is in the public interest to do so. 7. Section 9-3-42 Easements - Drainage Way Easements - Where a sub- division is traversed by a drainageway, a storm water easement or drainage right-of-way conforming substantially with the lines of ' such drainageway shall be twenty (20) feet wide or of such further width as necessary and shall generally follow rear and side lot lines. ' 8. Section 9-3-43 (b) Blocks - Pedestrian walkways, not less than twenty (20) feet wide, shall be required across blocks where the iPlanning Board deems that pedestrian access to schools, playgrounds, shopping centers, transportation, and other community facilities is necessary. 3 9. Section 9-3-58 Street Trees - Although not required by these regulations, the planting of street trees is considered a duty of the subdivider as well as good business practice. Street trees are a protection against excessive heat and glare and enhance the ' attractiveness and value of property. 10. Section 9-3-94 Official Plans and Community Facilities - ' (a) Purpose - The purpose of these requirements is to insure that growth and development are carried out in a manner and that adequate community consistent with official plans ' facilities are provided to serve new development. (b) Thoroughfares - When a tract to be subdivided includes any part of a thoroughfare plan, collector street plan, or official transportation plan, such part of the planned public way ' shall be platted and dedicated by the subdivider in the location and at the width planned. (c) Recreation and Open Space - When a tract is subdivided for residential pruposes, 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: (i) Area required - The minimum area to be dedicated shall be determined by the following formula: Total Average Family .008 density ' Number X Size, Last X acres/ X multiplier of Lots Official Census person Average Acres/Lot Density Multiplier .0 - .1 1.2 ' .1 - .2 1.0 .2 - .3 0.9 .3 - .5 0.7 .5 - .99 0.5 Over 1.0 0.0 4 L I (ii) Standards - The proposed park, recreation or open space must be considered by the Town 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 flood plain, 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. (iii) Acceptance, Maintenance, Development - The Town reserves the right to accept, develop and maintain the dedicated park, recreation or open space in accordance with its determination of public needs. (iv) Payments in Lieu of Dedication - When the area to be pro- vided would be less than one acre, the subdivider may be re- quired 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 o the raw land which would be required under the area requirement formula (if the subdivider and Town 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 Town. (v) Private Recreation Alternative - Subdividers may pro- vide equivalent private recreation space and/or facilities to meet the needs of the area being developed. Such areas 5 and/or facilities shall be approved by the Town, and such approval shall specify the specific number of lots or units for which the private area/facilities may be counted as adequate to meet neighborhood needs. Private recreation areas shall meet the area requirements of this ordinance, except that additional credit may be given for improvements and intensive facilities. Private recreation areas must ' have provisions for continuing operation and maintenance and for dedication to the Town if they are not maintained and kept available to meet the neighborhood's recreation/ open space needs. 11. Conservation Areas - The conservation areas are the Town's poorly•. drained areas along its small streams mainly in its ETJ, although some are in the Town. These are areas that have critical habitats ' or are considered fragile areas. It is these areas that are set aside because of their natural characteristics and their long lasting contribution to the citizens of the community. These areas can be considered greenways or buffer areas which allow a separation of land uses without conflict between them. Consequently, they are to be protected or managed so that they will remain essentially unaltered for generations to come. 12. 4.1 Pedestrian Crosswalk - Where deemed necessary by the Board of Aldermen, a pedestrian crosswalk at least fifteen (15) feet in width may be required to provide convenient public access to a public area such as a park or school, to a water area, or to areas such as shopping centers, religious or transportation facilities. 13. 4.3 Easements - Easements shall be provided as follows: 1 2 Drainage Easements - Where a subdivision is traversed b a stream or g Y drainage way, an easement shall be provided conforming with the lines of such stream and of sufficient width as will be adequate for the purpose. 14. Buffer Strip - A solid fence, wall, street, or a planted strip at least five (5) feet in width composed of deciduous and/or evergreen trees spaced not more than ten (10) feet apart, and not less than one (1) row of dense shrubs spaced not more than five (5) feet apart, which shall be established and maintained in perpetuity by the owner of the property whenever required under the terms and provisions of this ordinance. 15. Open Space.- An area (land and/or water) generally lacking in man- made structures and reserved for enjoyment in its unaltered state. 16. Recreation Area or Park - An area of land or combination of land and water resources that is developed for active and/or passive recreation pursuits with various man-made features that accommodate such activities. 17. Freeway, Expressway or Parkway - Divided multilane roadway designed to carry large volumes of traffic at relatively high speeds. A freeway is a divided highway providing for continuous flow of vehicles with no direct access to abutting property or streets and with access to selected crossroads provided via connecting ramps. An expressway is a divided highway with full or partial control of access and generally with grade separations at major intersections. A parkway is a highway for noncommercial traffic, with full or partial control of access, and usually located within a park or a ribbon of parklike development. 7 III. Existing Recreational Facilities Katherine Venters Memorial Park is located on Wilmington Street in the downtown area of Richlands. This facility consists of a small gazebo, children's play equipment and two basketball courts. This is the only recreation facility owned and operated by the Town of Richlands. Additional recreational facilities include a baseball field, open play field and playground equipment at Trexler School. The ball field is a lighted facility with adequate adjacent parking. Richlands Senior High includes a lighted football field with bleachers and a baseball field. As discussed earlier, two basketball courts will be constructed at Trexler School through the cooperation of the Town and County. Existing Facilities Katherine Venters Memorial Park (Town) Gazebo Children's Play Equipment Two Basketball Courts Benches Trexler School (County) Baseball Field (lighted) Open Play Field Playground Equipment Parking Two Basketball Courts Richlands Senior High (County) Football Field (lighted) Baseball Field Tennis Courts IV. Environmental Character of the Area Inside the Town Limits of Richlands, the environmental character of the community consists of primarily residential and commercial areas I II L: with some open space in the form of agricultural land, and wooded areas along existing streams and creeks. As discussed in the 1987 CAMA Land Use Plan, nearly 60.2% or 404 acres of the 672 acres inside the Town Limits are either agricultural or undeveloped. Outside the Town Limits of Richlands the area becomes predominantly agricultural, with a continuation of wooded areas along existing streams and creeks, with some commercial and residential land uses along the major highway corridors. Protecting the environmental character of Richlands, both inside the Town Limits and inside the proposed Extraterritorial Planning Jurisdiction of the community, can be one of the major benefits of this Recreation and Open Space Study. Establishing a greenway system that can provide passive recreational opportunities while at the same time protecting area streams and creeks from urban run—off can provide major environmental benefits to the community. V. Recreational Standards and Population Projections Based on the,1987 Land Use Plan, slightly more than 900 people live in Richlands, with a projected population for the year 2000 of 1,179 people. Based on this current and projected population, Richlands should currently have 9.0 acres of recreation land with a need for 11.7 acres by the year 2000. Based on current state and national standards, the 1.0 acres at Katherine Venters Memorial Park is 8.0 acres under current standards for a community the size of Richlands. When the Richlands High School facilities and Trexler School facilities are added, Richlands exceeds current standards by 1.8 acres. Katherine Venters Memorial Park 1.0 acres Richlands High School 5.6 acres Trexler School 3.2 acres Total Acreage 9..8 acres 9 Minimum Acreage and Facility Standards Minimum Acres and Facilities Existing Proposed Facility Type per Thousand People Facility Facility Play Lot 4 acre per 1,000 Venters Park 1 facility per 800 1 play lot Baseball 1 field per 6,000 1 field High School Diamond (3 acre minimum) 1 field Trexler (1 facility) Softball 1 field per 3,000 1 field Trexler Diamond (2 acre minimum) (over 3 acres) Neighborhood 1 acre per 1,000 Venters Park Park (6 acre minimum) 1.0 acre Tennis Courts 1 facility per 2,000 Tennis Court ( 2 acres for battery (2 tennis courts) of 4 courts) Multi -purpose 1 per 1,000 population 2 courts Trexler Courts 2 courts Venters Neighborhood 1'i acres per 1,000 Trexler School Playground (4 acre minimum) Venters Park (3.2 + 1.0 = 4.2 acres) Environmental 1 acre per 1,000 Greenway Areas System VI. Current and Future Demand for Recreation and Results of Recreation Questionnaire Based on the results of the Recreation Questionnaire, 27 of 46 people responding indicated that they would like to see a greenway system established in Richlands. When asked what type of recreational facility they would like to see developed, the highest priority was for tot lot (play area for very small children), children's play area (climbing equipment for pre -teens), bicycle path system and nature trails. 10 Based on current active recreational facilities available and the questionnaire results showing a desire for more passive recreational facilities, the Recreation and Open Space Plan has concentrated on establishment of a Greenway System around Richlands that meets this demand. (See questionnaire and results in Appendix.) VII. Proposed Facilities Based on an inventory of existing recreational facilities, Richlands has many of the active recreational facilities needed for a community of this size. The existing park provides both active and passive recreational opportunities, with the two schools providing active recreational facilities such as baseball, softball and open play fields. For that reason, the Plan has concentrated on the establishment of a Greenway System that could provide more passive recreational opportunities and at some the same time help protect the character of Richlands and provide environmental benefits by reducing urban run-off into existing streams and tributaries. Before any construction activities take place within this environmentally sensitive area, local officials should contact the Army Corps of Engineers to identify any regulated 404 wetlands or CAMA regulated areas to be protected. The Greenway System will be a linear park network left primarily in its natural state, except for the introduction of a connector system of trails for use by pedestrians and bicyclists. Some of its benefits and functions are: 1. To preserve the natural attributes -- trees and other plant life, water courses, natural terrain, open spaces -- that make Richlands a pleasant place to live. 2. To provide Richlands citizens with recreational opportunities ranging from quiet enjoyment of natural areas to hiking, jogging and bicycling. 3. To make available to school children and others areas where local flora and fauna and ecological relationships can be studied. 11 4. To influence growth patterns by: a. Conserving open spaces in the Richlands area; b. Separating and buffering conflicting land uses while connecting compatible land uses along the greenway's perimeter; and c. Producing an active commitment among all involved with Richlands' growth to planning for and implementing open -space networks in developing areas. 5. To increase the value of nearby property. 6. To help control soil erosion and stream siltation. 7. To help reduce water pollution caused by runoff. S. To improve air quality by adding oxygen to, filtering dust and air -borne pollutants from, and cooling the Town's air. 9. To help reduce noise pollution. 10. To help control flooding and act as a natural extension of the Town's storm sewer system. 11. To preserve a means for Richlands citizens to have a closer relation- ship to nature. VIII. Cost Estimate The Greenway Plan consists of 9.8 miles of trails with passive recreation amenities such as picnic shelters, trash receptacles, picnic tables, jogging and bicycle paths and foot bridges. The following represents a Preliminary Cost Estimate to implement the Greenway Plan. It has been assumed that land will be donated to the Town of Richlands as part of the Subdivision Regulations requirements, or simply donated. Item Clearing for nature trail 5' wide asphalt trail 5 Picnic shelters (20' x 40') Picnic tables Total Quantity Unit Cost Estimated Cost 5.8 acres $2,000/ac. $ 11,600.00 28,800 s.y. $10/s.y. 288,000.00 4,000 s.f. $10/s.f. 40,000.00 40 $200/ea. 8,000.00 12 Total Item Quantity Unit Cost Estimated Cost Fitness Exercise Area 2 Lump Sum $ 8,000.00 Foot Bridge 2 $10,000 20,000.00 Trash Receptacles 30 $200/ea. 6,000.00 Landscaping Lump Sum 10,000.00 Major Entrance Sign 6 $200/ea. 1,200.00 Minor Entrance Sign 4 $100/ea. 400.00 Directional Signs 10 $50/ea. 500.00 Sub -Total $ 393,700.00 10% Contingency 39,370.00 Total Estimated Cost $ 433,070.00 IX. Maintenance and Operation Needs Richlands has recently completed a Capital Improvements Plan which addresses anticipated capital improvements needs. With only one recrea- tion site available, the maintenance and operational costs are limited but would expand as the greenway system is developed. Operational costs would include trash collection, building and grounds maintenance, sign maintenance and occasional trail and path resurfacing or repair. As the system is developed, these costs would need to be added to the Town's operational budget or coordination with the County Recreation Department in cooperative maintenance and operation of the facility could be con- sidered. i 13 I X. Implementation Alternatives /Financing the Project The recently adopted Subdivision Ordinance for Richlands has established a requirement that future subdividers may be required to make a contribution to a park/recreation/open space reserve fund to help provide recreation or open space for additional residences being developed. Having established that requirement, the next step in implementation of the greenway or open space network could be carried out by following these steps: 1. The Planning Board, Council Members and other interested groups should discuss the advantages of establishing a greenway system with real estate agents, developers, surveyors and land owners. Efforts should be made to show the advantages of developing such an amenity for the community. If groups and individuals are supportive of such a greenway system, Richlands officials should consider establishing a Greenway Committee to pursue this concept further, and that could serve as a future Greenway Commission. 2. Contact the Raleigh Parks and Recreation Department to 1 arrange a field trip to Raleigh for a site visit to their greenway system. Contact person: Mr. Jack Duncan, P. 0. Box 590, 222 West Hargett Street, Room 608, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27602. 3. Arrange a joint meeting with the County Recreation Commission and County Recreation Director to discuss cooperative efforts in development of a greenway as part of a possible regional park in the Richlands area of Onslow County. 4. Draft revisions to Subdivision Ordinance to encourage voluntary donation of land or greenway easement that would permit development of the greenway*within the 100-year flood zone or 14 A zone as shown on the official Flood Insurance Maps. Establish a minimum width for the greenway, possibly 50' as measured from each bank of a stream, creek or tributary. See example below: oz ' feat O0. 5. Revise Subdivision Ordinance to require 20' minimum access trail from cul—de—sacs or roads adjacent to greenway. See example below: 20' Access Easement 15 I 6. The Town Administrator or Planning Board members could contact land owners along creeks, streams and tributaries to encourage donation of land or easements within the A flood zone that could be used for the greenway system. Information on the tax benefits of such donations should be made available to land owners. 7. The Town of Richlands could establish a fund that could be used for the purchase of key parcels of land, easements or leases in an effort to implement the greenway plan. I 16 1 6. The Town Administrator or PlanningBoard members s could contact land owners along creeks, streams and tributaries to encourage donation of land or easements within the A flood zone that could be used for the greenway system. Information on the tax benefits of such donations should be made available to land owners. 7. The Town of Richlands could establish a fund that could be used for the purchase of key parcels of land, easements or leases in an effort to implement the greenway plan. 16 w w m = m onw m so m wo = m w am no so on m (voll'v1`rrLS3�-llv2L. <3r-4v S�W�lt^i ->>P7�J-� S3ST1 a�1111.f"d�d : -,v rr2nS NC2WV.211::7-INI c-LUrl -:�l:asn-JjV2LL -=M� Fa1no7sd I-" C.- NOI Wwzo_-3rv1 ���y� �����/�.y 1 he 1 `) W r9is �oivw�r� v� ❑ ® 0 :�wvN ��vby 3L�Vty -acre izsao7 Rl DI 1 20 rV W 'gyr'roG ljcl� d�t�1TY�tap rv'a rAL-.�- 1v naesn va '1'rli� �S► ��11.� 'Z�orytSr•J SI hN17f2ttYGj, vl-�3i�,' �ttT-1 � i�o'Mtv33149 vazv 4 yv t'r'�nS 3.�W21LtY3 �q �,yrr►oa aocvw lv a�sn 3-el -1'11t'► ST 1�s 371 Li-Aor"v'W 3m.L of 1.TYN:74 $7rmzj-� r+'Q 31'4-.-4aTyl os- awn -eKa-Tlvv-ts srhrs--------- 3Xnv Lira •aorvrw � 7orvw StIL - - •a�svarr� �, �, a31n�n '33�C1S'1 S�D3�p TYt tisatc� "tvf�a ' y� � stern � rv.atM ��rl� t154s "IMvFI . wry rvo -,-,try Sj`�71s --Jo -7tva1. :EM Na 2►tr" fir-► --nv-O-- VM OL (vc-2Isvw�� Tvf t radd 't'i �C'f sty z7TtitT•r��t � -ivro�s-�atd I m w t$7 -ldr-J:j 'rtw ,Z marts rV+s 7<VW .0 i • nVw ,o t •new ,L •��w,L-1�jrv14 �t�c�ztb►�r-» --��`"JlL2J�l� •-Avw ,1, • t•v+w ,� Lbw ,tom r�rzu-�r�d iml -►�rle; • t-L.atri --7r7-AJ- t:qrfarrrprvi wnwl"iw -1�-.�rZtzl�f ' --►rv�1- 3t71- i`�c? .��vr�v� r� W , R-ol " ,a I WI, + VZLL w� w jwr so=Ift fir m m r" m m No m" m Minimum Facility Guidelines Population Facility Guidelines 10,000 or less Athletic Fields Football/Soccer 1/10,000 1-2 Softball 1/3,000 2-4 Baseball 1/6,000 1-4 Swimming Pool 25 yard 1/10,000 1 50 meter 1/20,000 1 Tennis Courts 2/4,000 1-2 Multipurpose Courts (Volleyball, basketball, badminton, etc.) 1/1,000 10 Public Golf (18-hole) 1/25,000 1 Trails Fitness/Jogging 1 mile/25,000 1 mile Outdoor Amphitheater 1/20,000 1 Handball/Racquetball 1/10,000 1 Play Apparatus Area 1/1,000 10 Community Center (with gym) 1/25,000 Use school for recreation Neighborhood -type Center (no gym) 1/10,000 1 Campgrounds sites Group 1/25,000 Individual (family) 15/1,000 10-20 Picnic Area with Support Facilities 1 acre/6,000 1 acre Nam MMONOWWO Regional or Similar to activities for a Similar to standards or reouirements MINIMLIM !0 7AL R.4CREATION STANDARDS County Parks Major Park. for a Major Park. Environmental Scenic enjoyment and green Can include medians, triangles, Facilities 1 Activities Other Standards or Reouirements Areas space within densely -populated walkways, riverfront development, areas. Squares, corner rest parks. Play lot Play for preschool child (unsupervised or volunteer). Swings, other elementary play apparatus; benches, spray pool Recreation Meetings, teen group activities, Used as substitute for full comudty for high density & apartment- Building recreation information center, game room, pre-school, senior- center; designed for immediate neighborhood small group activities; house neighborhoods; where neighborhood playground not citizen meeting place, crafts. should include snack area and available; not applicable in storage. low -density areas. Playfield Serves ages 15 and over for Serves several neighborhoods.within Neighborhood Play area for children, Apparatus area, informal play competitive activities requiring more apace than provided by a community; designed to provide indoor and outdoor activities; Playgrowd age 6-15 space, field for games and sports, neighborhood park or play- desirable to include community center. Shaded apace for passive ground. or Jr. or Sr. High School on the site. recreation, shelter building. Baseball Diamonds "Pick-up" neighborhood 901 base lines - 3501 outfield; Skating Rinks, Artificial Supervised skating activities; hockey, speed, figure, "free" Adequate parking, concessions, dressing area, centrally located games, neighborhood leagues; multiple -use open space, maximum distance away from streets and residence. (outdoor or skating. Multiple -use for off- equipment storage. indoor) season activities. Softball Diamonds "Pick-up" neighborhood boys and girls team games; supplement 60' base lines - 275' outfield; maximum distance away from Skating Rinks, Neighborhood skating and free Warming shelter, aid station, and reg. playground programs; streets and residence. Natural (out;- door) skating; instruction usually offered on natural rinks of lights for night use; number of facilities required decreases with multiple -use open space. smaller size. available artifical ice. Neighborhood Parks Passive and supervised recre- ation, such as a playground- Lawn, shrubs, picnic and shade areas park -like area for unsuper- g Swim instruction; competitive, Separate entrace, parking, Spectator park. wised play, open field areas, l Pooe (in- recre- room; soma with state health steamier free, handicapped therapy, ply desirable to combine park, play- door) ational, and school. usually connected with school p.-ogra-_. ground, school or community center. Ong Scala instruction; cospetitive. Conform to state health standards; Recreation Centers indoor recreation Serves several neighborhoods within Poole (out- door) free, special group activities, sun-bathing, diving, recreational.and bathhouse should include concession control facilities, lighted; locate Programs for programs for people of all ages, a community, provides compatible Community, at park, playfield, or communitycenter; available for other compatible social services; central pre- outdoor activities, includes gym, social and craft rooms, lounge, minimum 25 meter pool; bath - gramning for area neighbor- offices, staff space and madmum house and pool designed for off- season activitleS-such as ice skating. hoods. storage; may be located at facility. Auditorium Theater, dance, forums, concerts, Hack -stage areas designed to be Tennis Courts Instruction, tournament, free play, clubs. Not an isolated facility, but located with community center, school, park o: community events, instruction and performance the arts, used for co=unity meeting, work- shop and ga a rooms. playfield; concrete or bituminous community group meeting place. me surfacing; well drained. Major Park Group picnicking, day camping, Should make effective use of natural nature study, horseback riding, developments, open meadow, water or boating, swimming, fishing, WoodlotS which offer attractive winter sports, golf, arboretum, setting for activities not possible zoo, botanical gardens, resident in a small recreation area; several," camp, bike trails, cance trails. such parks s-ou?d be available to serve regional an! local metropolitan community needs. RECOMMENDED STANDARDS NATIONAL RECREATION AND PARK ASSOCIATION 1,000 POPULATION SERVICE rT AQQTVTrATTn?J Amr(%LET:f)VTr CT7r AAWYM (ZrMUT.T) AREA Plavlots or. Vest Pocket Park. Contains children's 2,500 sq. ft 500-2,500 Sub -Neighborhood play areas, quite N/A to 1 acre game ageas, land- scaping and benches Neighborhood Parks Includes sitting area, shuffleboard, horseshoes, table 2.5 Min. 5 acres 2,000 - 1/4 - 1/2 Mile games, picnic area, to 20 acres 10,000 ballfield, multi- purpose courts, etc. District Park Includes tennis courts, swimming pool, multi -purpose 2.5 20-100 acres 10,000 - 1/2 - 3 Miles courts, comman ty %- 50,000 center, parking, etc Large Urban Park Wooded area, varying topography, water, picnic area, 5.0 100+ acres' One for eacr� Within 1/2 hour swi.�aing, nature 50,000 driving time trails, sports facilities - not formal. Regional Parks Campgrounds, picnic area, nature trails, water areas, 20.0 250+ acres Serves entire Within 1 hour golf courses, nature population ir driving time. center. small towns. RECOMMENDED DIMENSIONS FOR CAME AREAS* Games Elementary Junior High High School Area size School School (Adults) (Includin Buffer Space Basketball 40'x 60' 50'x 84' 50' x 84, 7,200 sq. ft. Basketball 50' x 94' 8,600 sq. ft. (College) Volleyball 25' x 50' 25' x 50' 30' x 60' 2,800 sq. ft. Badminton 20' x 44' 1,800 sq. ft. Paddle Tennis 20' x 44' 1,800 sq. ft. Deck Tennis 18' x 40' 1,250 sq. ft. Tennis 36' x 78' 26' x 78' 6,500 sq. ft. Ice Hockey 85' x 200, 17,000 sq. ft. Field Hockey 180' x 300, 64,000 sq. ft. Horseshoes 10' x 40' 10' x 50' 1,000 sq. ft. Shuffleboard 6' x 52' 640 sq. ft. Lawn Bowling 14' x 110' 1,SW sq. ft. Boccie 15' x 75' 1,950 sq. ft: Tetherball 10' circle 12' circle 12' circle 400 sq. ft. Croquet 38' x 60' 38' x 60' 38' x 60' 2,200 sq. ft. Roque 30' x 60' 2,400 sq. ft. Handball 18' x 26' 18' x 26' 20' x 40' 1,200 sq. ft. (Single -wall) Handball 231 x 46' 1,058 sq. ft. (Four -wall) Baseball 210' x 210' 300' x 300' 400' x'400' 160,000 sq. ft. Archery 50' x 150' 50' x 300' 20,000 sq. ft. Softball 150' x 150' 200' x 200' 275' x 275' 75,000 sq. ft. (12" Bell) — Football 160' x 360' 80,000 sq. ft. Touch Football 120' x 300' 160' x 360' 80,000 sq. ft. Games Elementary Junior High Hi$h School Area Si+e School School (Adults) (Including Buffer Space) 6-Man Football 120' x 300' 54,000 sq. ft. Soccer (Men) Minimum 165' x 300' 65,000 sq. ft. Maximum 240' x 360' 105,000 sq. ft. Soccer (Women) 120' x 240' 40,000 sq. ft. * Table covers a single unit; many of above can be obtained. ** Dimensions vary with size of ball used. 1988 Richlands Recreation Plan QUESTIONNAIRE The Town of Richlands has received a planning grant through the Coastal Area Management Program to prepare a Recreation and Open Space Plan. This additional planning process is a follow-up to goals and policies e9tablish- ed for recreation as part of the 1987 Land Use Plan for Richlands. Please take a few minutes to answer the following questions and return the ques- tionnaire to the Town Hall by Friday, March 18, 1988. Thank you in advance for your assistance. S cerely, �i, re Annette Cray-Haftett Mayor 1. Where do you presently live in relation to Richlands? (Check One) 33 Inside Town Limits 12 Within one mile of Town Limits 4 More than one mile from Town Limits 2. If you live 1n Richlands, how long have you lived here? Less than one year 3 Five to ten years One to two years 24 Over ten years _Two to five years 3. Do you own or rent your home? 43 Own 6 Rent 4. Please check the age group you are in. 2 20-30 17 31-40 _1�,__41-50 7 51-60 10 Over 60 5. Do you think the Town of Richlands presently has enough active recreational opportunities for young people? 7 Yes 35 No 7 Not Sure 6. Do you think the Town of Richlands presently has enough recreational opportunities for older citizens? 5 Yes 34 No 10 Not Sure 7. Do ,you think providing recreational opportunities and facilities for community citizens is a service the Town should provide? 32 Yes 9 No 8 Not Sure 8. Do you think the Town of Richlands should spend a portion of local tax revenue for recreation'? 28 Yes 9 Yo 9 Not Sure 9. Would you be willing to pay additional taxes if necessary to develop and operate a recreation program? 14 Yes 22 No 10 Not Sure 10. Do you think the Town of Richlands should establish a recreation program separate from Onalow County or cooperate with the County program? 29 Cooperate 11 Separate Program 6 Not Sure 11. Of the following active recreational facilities, number the five you would like to see developed, if any, with 1 being most important and 5 being least important. • 5/7/0/1/2/15 Tot Lot (play area for Handball Courts 0/0/0/1,14/ very small children) Racquetball Courts 0/0/2/3,14/ 7/8/4/3/1/2 _Children's Play Area (Climbing equipment for pre -teens) Physical Fitness Course 2/0/3/5'3;1 0/3/2/l/4/jQ_Horseshoes Jogging Trails 2/5, 46 1,_ 7/l/3/3/3/jLSwiming Pool Nature Trails System 4/3/3/3,'2i1 Bicycle Path System 7/615/3, 5,2 12. If the following facilities were provided, check the three you would be most interested in using. 14 Ping Pon& 3 Soccer Field 7 Art Center 5 Billiards 10 Volleyball 13 Senior Citizen Exercise Center 2 Shuffleboard 10 Meeting Room Exercise classes, pooU, 8 Others indoor pool, skate ramp, 17 Library 24 Picnic Area crafts, senior citizems center, dominoes and card playing, tennis coLrts 13. Richlands is considering establishing a greenway or natural area system along existing creeks, streams and tributaries. This greenway would be available for jogging, bicycle and walking trails. Would you support the development of a greenway system? 27 Yes 9 No 10 Not Sure 14. Are you presently using any of the existing recreation facilities in Richlands? 23 Yes 24 No 15. If the answer to the previous question was "No" please explain why. *Numbers between slashes represent responses by priority (1-5) with last number being total number of responses. Comments in answer to question 15: What's available other than a playground. I am 40 years old. Age. Do not play organized sports. Usually jog along Town R/O/W's and DOT R/O/W's. Very interested in nature trails. Nothing that interests us. I didn't know we had it. Leymon White My health is not good enough to participate in any of the activities. Town park offers limited recreation and, unfortunately, is located next to the basketball court where teenagers are loud and vulgar. Need to serve the senior citizens with equipped building. I do have time. not the spare The facilities we desire do not exist. Not necessary. Full—time employment does not leave a lot of time for use of recreational facilities. Library hours aren't convenient. I work CLNC and use base library. I'm a new resident of Richlands and really don't know what you have to offer except for childrens' park which my grandson uses, but no shade. Too hot in summer. Because I don't know what they are. What are existing recreation facilities in Richlands? I already use the Library. Lillian Ruth Cox We definitely do not want our taxes raised. We want the town taxes to go toward the water and sewer projects and better streets. Conflict of time. Young people need to get out and find jobs and work and make their own money. There is already too much free service. Elderly and not able to participate. Don't have time. Additional comment: If I can be of any assistance in this matter please let me know. Ted Crane 1 I � ate. �• State of North Carolina Department of Natural Resources and Community Development Division of Parks and Recreation 512 North Salisbury Streit 0 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 James G. Martin, Governor Dr. William W. Davis S. Thomas Rhodes, Secretary April 12, 1988 Director Mr. Howard T. Capps Capps and Associates Post Office Box 4095 Wilmington, North Carolina 28406 Dear Mr. Capps: Subject: Town of Richlands Recreation and Open Space Plan HTCA #105-002 The Natural Heritage Program is the State's central repository of information about the locations of rare and endangered species, exemplary and unique natural areas, and other important natural ecosystems. The inventory of - those resources is incomplete, and no comprehensive resource survey has been done in the area of the proposed project. We compliment the recreation and open space plan for Richlands. We have no records indicating the presence of rare species or other special natural features in the project vicinity. However, this does not dismiss the potential that rare species or other special natural features may occur in Richlands. Detailed planning for alignment of the greenway system should attempt to avoid impacts on potentially natural habitats --such as relatively undisturbed wetlands and mature forest habitat. We enclose additional information about our program's data services. We appreciate your request for project review. Sincerely, &L 6zoe-- Charles Roe, Head N.C. Natural Heritage Program CR:jh Enclosure H/27 P.O. Box 27687, Raleigh. North Carolina 276II.768, Telephone 919.733-4181 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer I 1 I North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources James G. Martin, Governor Patric Dorsey, Secretary April 12, 1988 Howard T. Capps, ASLA Howard T. Capps & Associates P.O. Box 4095 Wilmington, N.C. 28406 Re: Town of Richlands Recreation and Open Space Plan, HTCA #105-002, Onslow County, ER 88-7923 Dear Mr. Capps: Division of Archives and History William S. Price, Jr., Director Thank you for your letter of March 9, 1988, concerning the above project. We have reviewed our records in regard to the project area and find no recorded archaeological sites. However, no systematic archaeological survey has been conducted in the area. There is a low probability that potentially significant archaeological sites exist within the two school sites and the park site. We recommend that no archaeological investigation be conducted in connection with those parts of the proposed project. The proposed nature trail primarily follows various stream courses around the town.of Richland, including areas which have a high probability for containing potentially significant archaeological sites. However, it is unlikely that the nature trail development will affect significant archaeological sites unless extensive ground disturbance activity takes place. We recommend that as your project planning develops you inform us of the type of ground disturbing activities which might occur and the specific location of these activities. A review of our records also indicates the presence of three small cemeteries near the proposed route of the nature trail. The nature trail will provide increased pedestrian traffic into the areas where these cemeteries are located, which may increase the chances of vandalism. We recommend that protection of the cemeteries be considered in your planning effort if they are threatened. 1 109 East Jones Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 (919) 733-7305 Howard T. Capps April 12, 1988, Page Two It i our understanding that two existing school sites are being considered s g g as components of the project. One of these complexes, the Richland Elementary School (formerly Richlands High School) on Foy Street is of historical and architectural interest because of its WPA buildings. However, we are of the opinion that since the school site will only be used for access to the bike paths, nature trail, and the like, the project as currently planned will have no effect on the historic school property. The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800, and to Executive Order 11593, "Protection and Enhance- ment of the Cultural Environment." Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, please contact Ms. Renee Gledhill -Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. Sincerely, `bavi Brook, Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer DB:slw cc: Haskell Rhett 1 I Mm m m m to am v r omr m m it " m m tw� M M M i M� � M � M 'm M m m r M M M i o'er_ t t v, G s�h.r IArrtll • pMl F^�M b 11r FEU C✓MW C.rUI r.rnr Fwen.. UrwtA fWl Piw1A�A b tlr .McF Y .AaYi1�M YJ 11r Of/lc. N Q• � W GYW Frrc. M.Ar.rrA. Mrlrl Oa.AMs W A1�1e AMYYWI{a 1988 Richlands Recreation `8? Open Space Plan P10-d 0 Howard T. Capps 0 Associates LaadrraPe hr&W • Land P/aa ur_ 321 North Front Street Wilmington, North Carolina