The URL can be used to link to this page

Open Space, Conservation & Recreation Five-Year Master Plan 1989-1994CITY OF NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS OPEN SPACE. CONSERVATION RECREATION FIVE-YEAR MASTER PLAN 1989 1994 CITY OF NORTHAMPTON OFFICE OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MA 01060 City of Northampton, Massachusetts Office of Planning and Development City Hall 210 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060 (413) 586 -6950 Community and Economic Development Conservation Historic Preservation Planning Board Zoning Board of Appeals Northampton Parking Commission CITY OF NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS OPEN SPACE, CONSERVATION RECREATION FIVE-YEAR MASTER PLAN 1989 1994 CITY OF NORTHAMPTON OFFICE OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT 210 MAIN STREET NORTHAMPTON, MA 01060 City of Northampton, Massachusetts Office of Planning and Development City Hall 210 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060 (413) 586 -6950 Community and Economic Development Conservation Historic Preservation Planning Board Zoning Board of Appeals Northampton Parking Commission Elizabeth A. Miller Program Coordinator Division of Conservation Services 100 Cambridge Street Boston, MA 02202 RE: Northampton Open Space, Conservation, and Recreation Plan Dear Ms. Miller: January 4, 1991 Enclosed is Northampton's revised "Open Space, Conservation Recreation Five Year Master Plan, 1989 1994." I have revised the plan to incorporate the comments in your February 13, 1989 review letter. I believe this plan otherwise meets all the requirements for open space plans in effect when we submitted the plan. We have made the following administrative revisions to incorporate your comments: 1. Additional demographic information is found in the Community Profile. 2. A Needs Analysis has been incorporated into the report as a new Section V. This summarizes the needs that were identified as part of the planning process. The Goals and Objectives section is a reflection of the broad needs which have been defined. 3. I corrected the reference to the Division of Conservation Services. 4. PVPC's review letter is attached to the back of the report. In addition, I made several grammatical corrections throughout the report. For your information I am also including a copy of the Northampton Conservation Commission's "Management Plan for Conservation Areas and Easements." Although this is not part of the Open Space Plan, it was written to provide greater detail on management of existing conservation areas then in the Open Space Plan. I look forward to hearing from you as soon as possible. Sincerely, Wayne M. Feiden Environmental Planner e xecutive Ogee o/ envcxonmenta g oc :zriory 1 C evizt J iced/ /oonlit4e# ems; Moan' 02202 Wayne M. Feiden, Environmental Planner Office of Planning and Development City Hall 210 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060 January 8, 1991 Dear Mr. Feiden.: T have received Northampton's revised "Open Space, Conservation Recreati:on. Five Year Master Plan, 1989 1.994 The revisions meet our requirements. Northampton is now eligible to participate in our Division's grant programs through January, 1994. Sincerely, Congratulations! 0,( afr Elizabeth A. Miller Program Coordinator CITY OF NORTHAMPTON, MASSACHUSETTS OPEN SPACE, CONSERVATION RECREATION FIVE YEAR MASTER PLAN 1989 1994 TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION I. METHODOLOGY AND CITIZEN PARTICIPATION 1 SECTION II. COMMUNITY PROFILE 1 SECTION III. OPEN SPACE, CONSERVATION, RECREATION, NATURAL RESOURCE INVENTORY 8 SECTION IV. RESULTS OF CITIZEN TELEPHONE SURVEY 19 SECTION V. NEEDS ASSESSMENT .21`- SECTION VI. POLICIES, GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 22 A. CONSERVATION COMMISSION GOALS AND OBJECTIVES B. RECREATION COMMISSION GOALS AND OBJECTIVES SECTION VII. FIVE YEAR LAND ACTION PROGRAM 25 A. CONSERVATION, PASSIVE RECREATION B. ACTIVE RECREATION FIVE YEAR ACTION PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION SECTION I. METHODOLOGY AND CITIZEN PARTICIPATION This most recent edition of Northampton's Open Space, Conservation Recreation Master Plan is a revision and update of Northampton's previous 1980 Open Space, Conservation and Recreation Master Plan. Prior Open Space Plans were based upon information obtained from:. the "Comprehensive Plan Summary" for Northampton developed in 1970 -72 by Metcalf and Eddy, Inc.; the Northampton Recreation Commission's "Plan and Program for the Next 10 Years developed by Technical Planning Associates in 1974; the "Proposed Land Acquisition and Land Use Guidelines prepared by the Northampton Conservation Commission in 1973; Northampton's 1977 "Massachusetts Natural Resources Planning Program MNRPP), as well as experiences, discussions and surveys with citizens, private groups, city departments and a Steering Committee comprised of representatives from the Conservation Commission, Recreation Commission, Planning Department and Board of Public Works. In updating this Open Space Plan a new steering committee was formed with representatives of the Northampton Conservation Commission, Recreation Department and Commission, Planning Board, Office of Planning Development and Department of Public Works. To ensure that this most recent Open Space Plan truly reflects the current needs, desires and opinions of the citizens' of Northampton, the steering committee undertook an attitudinal telephone survey (conducted by the Planning Department, League of Women Voters and the Retired Seniors Volunteer Program) contacting over 100 Northampton households, the results of which are included in this document. In addition, the Conservation Commission and Recreation Commission held'' four Public Hearings in January and February, 1988 at various sites throughout the community to elicit public input. Information was also obtained from Northampton's Strategic Planning Grants Program. The final document was reviewed and approved by the Conservation Commission, Recreation Commission, Planning Board and City Council. SECTION II. COMMUNITY PROFILE Location Northampton is located to the west of the connecticut River in Hampshire county. With a total land area of 34.6 square miles, it is bordered by Easthampton to the south, Westhampton to the west, and Williamsburg and Hatfield to the northeast. Northampton is 18 miles from Springfield and 93 miles from Boston. The City's regional area of influence spans the Connecticut River Valley from the Berkshire hills on the west to the Worcester County plateau to the east. Because of this location, Northampton has developed a dual role as the urban center for its local area of influence and an important satellite city within its regional area of influence. Topography Northampton is bounded by the Mt. Tom mountain ranges which extend generally in a north -south direction west of the Connecticut River, and the Holyoke range which runs east -west between the Mt. Tom range and the Worcester plateau. These physical characteristics of the land serve to restrain the expansion northerly of the Springfield- Chicopee- Holyoke metropolitan area. The elevation of the. City ranges from 99.0 feet m.s.l. in the Connecticut River flood plain to about 800 fee m.s.l. along the western edge. The area along the Connecticut River in the east and south is relatively level and subject to frequent flooding. PAGE 1 Water Resources Water resources such as ponds, lakes, reservoirs, rivers and streams total approximately 826 acres, or about 3% of Northampton's area. These include the 25 acre Roberts Meadow Reservoir in the northwest portion of the City, the 40 acre Fitzgerald Lake in the northeast, and two ponds totaling 45 acres located in the Northampton Meadows area. Historically, the Connecticut River and the Mill River were vital economic and transportation resources for the City. Today they serve an equally important role as conservation and recreation areas and enhance the natural beauty and charm of Northampton. Due to the advanced age of the Connecticut River, its elevation and course have been changed by layers of silt deposited over centuries. The famous oxbow in the southeast area of the City is a result of the meander process. The floodplains of the Mill and Connecticut Rivers are considered as unsuitable for structural development, but provide conditions attractive to specific conservation, recreation and farming uses. Soils The USDA Soil Conservation Service has provided interpretive information on Northampton :'s soils. With this information, it is possible to ascertain opportunities and constraints for various activities. Factor maps developed from the 1" 1,000' soils /topography base map have been developed to aid public decision making. 1. Ridgeberry- Limerick- Raynham These are poorly drained mineral soils which occur in nearly level and gently sloping drainage channels and depressions throughout the City. Most of this general soil area has slight limitations for commercial, industrial, residential and farming uses because of extreme wetness. Fifteen percent of the area was surveyed. 2. Hollis Charlton Gloucester These are well drained, extremely rocky, shallow to bedrock soils, and well drained extremely stony soils without hardpan. They occur on gently to steeply sloping hills and ridges in the north eastern and western areas of the City. The area has severe limitations for most uses because of the shallow depth to bedrock. Twenty -five percent of the area was surveyed. 3. Paxton Woodbridge- Belgrade association Extremely stony, well drained and moderately well drained soils underlain by hardpan; and moderately well drained, silty soils. This association is distributed throughout the City on gently to moderately sloping hills and ridges. This area has slight limitations for woodland and recreation use. It has severe limitations for commercial, industrial and wetland wildlife uses, and most of it has severe limitations for residential and farming uses. Twenty -seven percent of the area was surveyed. 4. Hinckly- Sudbury Association Excessively drained and moderately well drained sandy and gravelly soils. This soil area occurs on nearly level to moderately sloping terraces and are located in a narrow band that extends from the northeast to the southwest part of the City. Most of this area has slight to moderate limitations for commercial, industrial, residential, recreational and farming uses; moderate limitation for woodland; and severe limitations for wetland wildlife. Seventeen percent of the area was surveyed. 5. Hadley Winooski Association Well drained and moderately well drained, silty soils and moderately well drained sandy soils. This soils area in generally found on nearly level flood plains adjacent to the Connecticut PAGE 2 River, with smaller areas located along the Mill River. Most of this area has slight limitations for farming and woodland; severe limitations for commercial, industrial and residential uses due to flooding and moderate limitations for recreation. Sixteen percent of the area was surveyed. Where soils are classified unsuitable for development, there may be conditions attractive to specific conservation and passive recreation purposes. Information on soil conditions is available and is utilized as a common element in resource related decision making in the City. Wildlife The abundance of wildlife food and the diversity of habitats allows birds and small animals to flourish in Northampton. Herds of deer thrive in the woodland' border areas and wooded swamps. They graze in fields involved in secondary growth and utilize wooded areas for protection. Game birds, such as pheasants, native grouse and woodcock may also be found in these areas, along with raccoons, muskrats, mink and fox which inhabit the various wetland areas within the City. There has been a substantial increase in the otter, opossum and beaver populations of Northampton in the past few years. In 1979 thee were over 2,000 beaver pelts taken, the most seen in many years. Also, there has been an established turkey population which has grown to 2,000 this year. Over 200 different species of birds were reported around Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary last year, including the Bald Eagle, Redtail Hawk, and Screech Owl. The various lakes, streams and rivers in the City provide environments for, a .wide variety of fish, such as trout, salmon, black bass, pickerel, northern pike, shad and'walleye. The Connecticut River and its associated Ox -Bow area are especially significant aquatic habitats. Roberts Meadow Brook, upstream from the Roberts Meadow Reservoir, is listed as one of the Commonwealth's Scenic Rivers. Vegetation Vegetative cover defines the value of land, its aesthetic quality, its value for wildlife and its potential for other uses. According to a 1972 aerial photographic study directed by William MacConnell of the University of Massachusetts, 12,271 acres, or 54% of Northampton is forest land. Mature hardwoods dominate the City's woodland, followed by larger hardwoods and small mixed woods. There is also a community of conifers. Agriculture and open land comprised 4,742 acres in 1972, and wetlands totaled 990 acres. There has been a definite overall decrease in vegetated lands since 1952, while the number of acres committed to urban land has nearly doubled. The increased demand for fuel wood may greatly accelerate the loss of hardwood lumber stock without proper management. Climate Northampton has a pleasant climate which permits a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities year- round. The average temperature in January is 23.8' F. and in July in 71.4' F. Annual precipitation averages 40 inches. The Berkshire Mountains shield Northampton from the full force of the westerly winds. In the summer, there is a variation in temperature between the flood plains and City center in the east and the Berkshire foothills to the west. Population The present population of Northampton is approximately 30,000 with a population PAGE 3 density of about 870 people per square mile. Northampton's population has remained relatively stable since the end of World War II. Northampton's total p p Y o ulation statistics are significant) affected by five major institutions located in Northampton. These are Smith College, Northam p ton State Hospital, the veterans Administration Medical Center, Clarke School for the Deaf, and the Hampshire oHospital. past t twenty years d app of the total City population ver NORTHAMPTON POPULATION AND PERCENT CHANGE Po•ulation Percent Chan •e 1840 840 3,750 1 1850 5,278 +40.7 +28.6 1860 6,788 8.6 1870 10,160 ++449.8 1880 12,172 +19.8 1890 14,990 +24.4 1900 18,643 4.4 1910 19,431 .2 1920 21,956 +13.0 1930 24,381 1.0 1940 24,794 +11.7 1950 29,063 .4 1960 30,058 7 3.4 1970 29,664 1.2 1980 29,286 3.7 1990 30 384 Source: U.S. C 19 Northampton 90 NORTHAMPTON POPULATION DISTRIBUTION BY AGE AGE PERCENT OF TOTAL POPULATION 3.6% 6 -9 5.2% 6 -9 4.9% 10 -14 9% 17. 15-19 4. 19 13.1% 20 -24 15.8% 25 -34 35 -44 17.8% 45 -54 3.6% 55 -59 60 -64 3. 65 -74 75+ 8.0% Source: U.S Census estimates 1990 NORTHAMPTON POPULATION DISTRIBUTION BY RACE RACE PERCENT OF TOTAL POPULATION 98.62% White .57% Black 57% Hispanic .64% Asian Source: U.S. Census estimates Personal Income Levels Median income in Northampton is below that of the state, but the City's poverty level m is also well below l the national Census f r d the Springfield MSA (which includes estimated median Y Northampton) is $36,000. PAGE 4 FAMILY INCOME $75,000+ $50,000- 74,999 $35,000- 49,999 $25,000- 34,99 $15,000- 24,999 7,500 14,999 LESS THAN $7,500 Source: U.S. Census estimates ESTIMATED FAMILY INCOME PERCENT OF RESIDENTS 8.6% 16.9% 20.2% 15.2% 16.1% 11.1% 12.1% Land Use Patterns The terrain of Northampton ranges from the moderately steep Berkshire hills of the west to the flat flood plains of the Mill and Connecticut Rivers in the central and eastern portion of the City. Major development to date has occurred in the middle section of the community below the steepest part of the Berkshires and, for the most part, above the flood plain of the Connecticut River. About 16,000 acres of the almost 23,000 acres of Northampton lands are undeveloped. The pattern of development, historically to the p t n seems to reflect the strong influence of topography h Y d g i To the west, slopes are steep enough and soils thin enough that development does not occur. Difficulty of the terrain coupled with the uncertainties of on waste water disposal through septic systems has restricted most forms of urban land uses, although any extension of sewer lines into this area in the future can be expected to stimulate significant amounts of new development. The dominant characteristic of the western portion of the City is forested sloped interspersed with small streams and pockets of wetlands. The Connecticut River floodplain has historically been relatively undeveloped, being used primarily for agriculture. During the last two or three decades the of agriulura nomically viable s farms d from nproduction nboth ona t ecoomy of and offthe s floodplain. Over the past 20 plus years, there has been urban land use development within the City, mostly in open and unused areas that were contained in the historically developed midsection of the City. Today there is little remaining land available for future development in the midst of the urbanized areas or immediately adjacent to them. The existing land use pattern is characterized by contrasting urban and rural patterns. The urban pattern is located north of the Mill River, running westerly from downtown Northampton to Florence and Bay State Villages. The rural pattern is found along various roadways outside the urban areas and consists primarily of development Leeds ne intensive suburban P and the Burts Pit Road and Ryan Road areas Large tracts of public and quasi- public land, including the A Nort ural n c S ta t e Hos Smith College, Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, g Look Park, Northampton Reservoir watershed lands and the Veteran's Administration Medical Center have also contributed to the confinement of the urban development pattern. The potential sale of surplus State Hospital land is currently an important land -use issue in Northampton. A comparison of land use types and their respective acreage shown from aerial ch indicated land use changes between 1952 and 1972, interpreted photographs by William P. MacConnell of the University of Massachusetts, Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management. One of the major factors which has produced relative stability in Northampton's land use situation over the past PAGE 5 two and a half decades has been its slow population growth. This slow growth trend for Northampton is expected to continue. LAND USE CHANGES IN NORTHAMPTON Land Use Forest Land 12,271 Agriculture or open land Wetland Mining, waste disposal* Urban land Outdoor recreation* 1952 -1972 Acres 1952 1972 12,552 6,595 4,742 1,121 990 226 2,381 4,044 376 Grand total 22,649 22,649 *Differences in tabulation are due to the fact that these types were classed as open land in the 1952 aerial photo interpretation. Source: MacConnell (1973) Water Supply Northampton's water supply comes from the Mountain Street Reservoir in Williamsburg and the West Whately Reservoir in Williamsburg, as well as the Roberts Meadow Reservoir. The Roberts Meadow area in the northwestern section of the City includes City- owned watersheds and the Roberts Meadow Reservoir (Leeds Reservoir). This reservoir serves as a stand -by or backup supply for the existing system. There are two wells in the system, one on Clark Avenue and the other on Ice House Road. Sewage Disposal Northampton's waste water treatment plant, located on Hockanum Road, is a City owned facility managed by the Board of Public Works. Constructed in 1957 -8, it provides only primary treatment of waste water at this time. However, through State and federal funding, this facility is presently being upgraded to provide secondary treatment and it is estimated that at the time of completion, 85 -90% of all Northampton households will be City sewered, and a population of approximately 25,000 residents will be served. The City's sewer system is in the midst of a major (26 million dollar) renovation and expansion. The facility will provide secondary treatment and therefore, improve water quality in the Connecticut River. The installation of community sewers in Williamsburg has resulted in the dramatic improvement of water quality in the Mill River. For the most part, the replacement of existing sewer lines and the slight expansion of sewered areas is not expected to induce additional urbanization. Unfortunately, the 201 facility planning behind the present expansion did not incorporate open space and recreation planning objectives. The easements taken for sewer line construction did not incorporate provisions for open space use by the public. It is hoped, however, that the de -facto open space corridors created by the well graded paths of the sewer easements will provide informal opportunities for open space enjoyment. Transportation Networks Local Street System Travel Patterns. An analysis of origin and destination data collected in the PAGE 6 1965 Springfield Urbanized Area Comprehensive Transportation Study indicates that there are five major traffic generators in the City. As major generators in the City, a high proportion of trips taken within the City, either begin or end in these areas. They are: 1. The Central Business District, including adjacent residential areas. 2. The King Street and North King Street area. 3. The Florence Bay State area. 4. The Route I -91 interchanges, particularly those providing access to and from the south. 5. The Ryan Road area. In the future the above areas are expected to continue as major traffic generators. Because of the industrial park development and more intensive commercial development, the King Street and North King Street area should increase in importance as a generator. In some cases where significantly high frequency of travel occurs between these major generators and other areas within and outside the City, there is an inability of the existing street system to adequately serve travel desires. Deficiencies in the pattern and location of existing streets cause undue losses in travel time, congestion, and safety hazards. The travel patterns in the City which are not adequately served by the existing street systems are:, 1. Between the Ryan Road area and a. the CBD b. King Street -North King Street c. Hadley and Amherst 2. Between the Bay State Florence area and a. King Street -North King Street b. Hadley and Amherst 3. Between the CBD and a. Williamsburg b. Leeds c. Bay State Florence area 4. Between King Street and North King Street and northbound traffic existing from Route I -91 (Reference: Comprehensive Plan Summary, 1972) Major transportation routes servicing the Northampton area include: ROUTE IMMEDIATE CONNECTING TOWNS /ROUTES I -91 Hatfield Holyoke Route 9 Hadley Williamsburg Route 5 Hatfield Holyoke Route 10 Hatfield Easthampton Route 66 Westhampton Route 112 Mass Transportation The Pioneer Valley Transit Authority services the City of Northampton with bus stops along Route 9 from Northampton through Florence and Leeds. Service between Easthampton and Northampton exists along the Route 10 and Route 5 corridors. Future expansion of PVTA service to the King Street and Ryan Road areas are currently being contemplated. PAGE 7 PVTA service to Springfield and other points exists, and serves a considerable number of passengers. The Boston and Maine railroad corridor is the route of the AMTRAK "Montrealer and a stop exists in Northampton (not currently in use). The creation of a "Park and Ride" facility on Damon Road, next to the Route 9 Calvin Coolidge Bridge is in the planning stages. It is hoped that such a facility, if built, would enhance the use of the proposed Elwell island recreation area by providing off -peak time opportunities for parking. SECTION III. OPEN SPACE, CONSERVATION, RECREATION NATURAL RESOURCE INVENTORY The following section summarizes the current supply of recreation and conservation areas and facilities within Northampton. OPEN SPACE /CONSERVATION AREAS Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area 152 acres Ownership: City Zoning: RR -Flood Zone Management: Conservation Commission This impoundment of 40 acres is surrounded by pine hemlock hardwood forest uplands and limited areas of wooded wetlands and meadows. It is wet or rocky land with limited potential for development, but offers excellent hiking trails, nature study, fishing, canoeing and skating and is presently used by residents city -wide for these activities. The use is light, but year- round. This area was purchased in part with Self -Help funding. Roberts Hill Conservation Area 96 acres Ownership: Zoning: RR Management: City Conservation Commission This large wooded hill overlooks the Leeds Reservoir and borders on the Mill River. The area has two small ponds, a stream and a diversity of forest types. It provides an ideal linkage between the Leeds Reservoir Watershed and the Mill River and Look Memorial Park. In 1986 the area was selectively cut to promote and create wildlife habitats. Activities include: hiking /walking trails, cross country skiing and nature study. The use of the area is city -wide, light and year- round. This area was purchased in part with Self -Help funding. James H. Elwell (Elwell Island) Conservation Area 100 acres Ownership: City Zoning: SC Management: Conservation Commission This area is comprised of a 60 acre island in the Connecticut River and 40 acres of adjacent riverfront land. The island provides habitat for two endangered plant species and one globally rare insect. The eastern edge of the island provides an excellent beach and is heavily used (including unauthorized camping) by motor boaters. Approximately 15.5 acres of prime farmland on the mainland is utilized by a local farmer in accordance with a Farm Use Agreement. Efforts are being made to enter into a joint management agreement with DEM in conjunction with their proposed Damon Road Park on adjacent riverfront property. This area was purchased in part with Self -Help funding. PAGE 8 Rainbow Beach Conservation Area 55 acres Ownership: Zoning: SC Management: City Conservation Commission A Conservation site covered with river bottomland hardwoods and a narrow beach area of river sediment deposits, this area is located along the Connecticut River and receives medium summer use (swimming and unauthorized camping) by motor boaters. This area is used for nature study and provides habitat for one endangered plant species and one globally rare insect. This site abuts a recently acquired parcel purchased by Mass Audubon which is in turn being sold to the Dept. of Fisheries and Wildlife (Natural Heritage Program) and a joint management agreement is being contemplated, including the abutting Shepards Island parcel. This area was purchased in part with Self -Help funding. Barrett Street Swamp 19.7 Acres Ownership: City Zoning: URA -Flood Zone Management: Conservation Commission The City owns this small parcel of meadow and wetland which serves as an important storm water detention area for the neighborhood's surface, and subsurface hydrology (surrounded by heavily developed residential and commercial properties. The area provides limited hiking but extensive nature study and wildlife habitat. Major portions of the site were procured through private donations. Marion Street Conservation Area 11.5 acres Ownership: City Zoning: SR, RR Management: Conservation Commission This is a small parcel of land located easterly of North King Street off of the northerly side of Marion Street. It is comprised of rolling woodland over ledge with a small intermittent stream and some wetlands. .Should the city ever be successful in its efforts to acquire, in fee or by easement, access over the abutting Cooke's Pasture, this parcel would contribute towards, the establishment of a greenbelt and trail system which would span the entire northerly portion of Northampton, linking three of the city's major open space /conservation areas. This site was purchased with Self -Help Funding assistance and donations from neighbors. Burke Conservation Area 4.72 acres Ownership: City Zoning: SR Management: Conservation Commission This is a small parcel of land westerly and butting the Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area. It is comprised of wetland and a portion of the main feeder brook to Fitzgerald Lake, but it also provides an important linkage between Fitzgerald Lake and the Smith Vocational School Forest (V..A. Property). The site was procured through a land donation. Mary Brown's Dingle Ownership: City Zoning: URB Management: Conservation Commission PAGE 9 Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary 500+ acres Ownership: Massachusetts Audubon Society Zoning: SC -Flood Zone Management: Massachusetts Audubon Society With over 500 acres of varied habitat, Arcadia Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the Ox -Bow of the Connecticut River. The last mile of the Mill River in Northampton flows through the Sanctuary. Arcadia us a conservation area which offers a variety of recreational activities and facilities including: nature study, courses and workshops, hiking (over five miles of trails), and guided tours, films for rent, slide presentations, a natural science library, vacation day camps, and a 100 -seat auditorium with audiovisual equipment and kitchen facilities for group rentals. Receives heavy regional use throughout the year. This is a small parcel of land located off of the end of Glendale Avenue, between Franklin and Crescent Streets. With a city storm sewer easement running through the middle of it, this area is comprised of small trees and shrubs and serves as both a natural open space areas between the two residential neighborhoods and as a bird and small creature (i.e. squirrel) habitat. The site was procured through a land donation. Shepard's Island 15 acres Ownership: Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Division of Fisheries and Wildlife Zoning: SC -Flood Zone Management: Division of Fisheries and. Wildlife A former island along the banks of the Connecticut River, this State owned conservation area is now a peninsula which abuts the southerly end of the city's Rainbow Beach Conservation Area. The site basically serves as wildlife habitat and for nature study. The area is lightly used during the summer. Leeds Reservoirs Ownership: City Zoning: RR -Flood Zone Management: DPW /Water Department An extensive tract in the northwest part of the City, the area comprises three reservoir impoundments: the small Leeds Lower Reservoir, the adjacent and much larger Leeds Upper Reservoir (referred to on official maps as the Roberts Meadow Reservoir), and a third Upper Leeds Reservoir at a more remote location to the west. Most of the square mile of undeveloped land lies to the south of Chesterfield Road, at some distance from the reservoirs. The Lower Reservoir is used for swimming (although unauthorized) and picnic areas and limited nature trails are also available. Limited parking facilities for this medium -light use area are provided. The site is used by residents city -wide. Smith School Property off Haydenville Road 182.1 acres Ownership: City Zoning: SR Management: Smith Vocational School This large wooded site is used by the Smith Vocational School for forestry studies. No facilities, light use. ACTIVE OUTDOOR RECREATION AREAS Sheldon Field- 10 acres PAGE 10 Ownership: Zoning: URA Management: Maintenance: DPW Most of this 10 -acre site is devoted to ball fields, and includes four ball diamonds, plus two lighted basketball courts, two field houses, a wading pool, a soccer field and playground equipment. Larger grassed areas could be redesigned at different times of the year to support other field layouts. This area is used heavily throughout the summer, fall, and spring seasons by residents city -wide. Maine's Field 17 acres Ownership: City Zoning: URB Management: Recreation Commission Maintenance: DPW This partially wooded 17 -acre recreation area borders the Mill River and offers a wide range of facilities, including various playground equipment, a lighted ball diamond, a wading pool, two out buildings, and a pavilion. A paved parking area is provided. This area receives extremely heavy spring and summer use and light fall and winter use by residents city -wide. This area is subject to heavy spring floods. Arcanum Field 11 acres Ownership: Zoning: URA Management: Maintenance: Ownership: Zoning: URC Management: Maintenance: City Recreation Commission City Agnes Fox Field 2 acres Recreation Commission DPW A heavily used year -round recreational area, Arcanum includes various playground equipment, two ball diamonds, a soccer field, a wading pool, a field house and an all- purpose paved area used for basketball, street hockey and dances. There exists the potential to develop section into small game areas for shuffleboard, horse shoes, etc. City Recreation Commission DPW Most of this two -acre site is a grassed play area, but there also exist various playground equipment, a basketball court, a wading pool, and a field house. This area has been closed as a summer playground because of a declining number of youngsters in the immediate area. The area could be redesigned to better serve the neighborhood. If this area is to remain open, rehabilitation is essential. Veterans Memorial Field 8 acres Ownership: City Zoning: URB Management: Recreation Commission Maintenance: DPW This eight -acre recreation area is heavily used year -round by various leagues, and by the residents city -wide. It offers numerous facilities, including: playground equipment, a baseball diamond, an all- purpose paved area used for PAGE 11 basketball and street hockey, a soccer field, a wading pool, and a field house with restrooms. There is an unpaved parking area. Much work should be done to beautify the fringe areas. Clear Falls Recreation Center 73 acres Ownership: Clear Falls, Inc. Zoning: RR -Flood Zone Management: Clear Falls, Inc. Located in the extreme southwest corner of the City, swimming, picnicking, and nature trails for hiking; picnicking shelters are also on the site. With a area attracts residents from throughout the region. Northampton Country Club Ownership: Zoning: URA Management: This private golf club offers its members a nine -hole golf course, a swimming pool, and a clubhouse. The establishment receives medium use during the golfing season by residents throughout the region. Mal's Driving Range Ownership: Zoning: URA Management: A practice driving range for golf, this facility receives medium summer use by residents throughout the region. Snack bar. Commercial facility, fee required. Wilson Road Driving Range 26 acres Ownership: Zoning: SR Management: Fairway Assoc., Inc. Fairway Assoc., Inc. Pierre Brisson Pierre Brisson Ewing Ewing this recreation area offers a field house, snack bar and moderate level of use, this Entrance Fee. A practice driving range for golf, this facility receives medium summer use by residents throughout the region. Commercial facility, fee required. Pine Grove Golf Course 106.3 acres Ownership: Zoning: SR Management: Gil Verillo, Douglas Jesanus Gil Verillo With an 18 -hole golf source and field house, this facility is open to members as well as non members for a fee. Level of use is medium -heavy throughout the golf season, with cross country skiing in the winter. Regional user population. Paradise Pond, Athletic Fields and Tennis Courts Ownership: Zoning: URC Management: This recreational by both students playfields, track Smith College Smith College area is part of the Smith College Campus and receives heavy use and area residents (with permission). Facilities include field, tennis courts, row boats and ice skating. PAGE 12 OxBow Marina 56.1 acres Ownership: Mathias Duda Zoning: SC -Flood Zone Management: Mathias Duda A commercial facility offering boat rentals, storage and mooring facilities; tennis, swimming, horseshoes. Utilized on a region wide basis this facility receives heavy summer use. Fee required. SCHOOL SITES Leeds School 9.3 acres Ownership: City Zoning: URA Management: School Department Building use, Recreation Department Field use This 9.3 acre site contains both indoor and outdoor recreational facilities, and is used year -round by the school population (heavy use), local neighborhood residents (medium use), and City residents (light use). Outdoor facilities include: playground equipment, a basketball court, a ball diamond, a skating area and a wading pool. Indoor facilities include: a gymnasium with two basketball hoops, two volleyball nets, pull -up bars, plus an auditorium. Parking, bike racks, supervision and first aid facilities are at site. This site is large enough to be redesigned to accommodate other types of field layouts, although some site work would be necessary due to sloping terrain. Robert K. Finn Ryan Road School 15 acres Ownership: City Zoning: URA Management: School Department Building use Recreation Department Field use Both indoor and outdoor recreational facilities are available on this 15 acre school site which receives medium -heavy year -round school, neighborhood and city- wide use. Outdoor facilities include: playground equipment, four ball diamonds, one soccer field, a skating area, and a wading pool. Rear wooded area could be utilized for some form of outdoor recreation or nature education. Indoor facilities include: a gymnasium, six basketball hoops, four volleyball nets. Locker rooms with shower facilities are available, as well as bike racks, drinking water and first aid (during school year). Florence Grammar School 2.5 acres Ownership: Zoning: URB Management: City School Department A school site offering no indoor facilities. Outdoor facilities include: an 'adventure playground' and limited playground equipment, a small black -top play area, plus two basketball hoops (poor quality). Area lightly used by school and neighborhood residents. J.F.K. Junior High School 15 acres Ownership: City Zoning: URA Management: School Department Building use Recreation Department Field use PAGE 13 Heavily used primarily by school for physical education classes and interscholastic sports throughout the school year, this 15 acre site contains both indoor and outdoor facilities. Outdoor facilities include: two ball diamonds, a soccer field and football field (light City use). Indoor facilities include: a gymnasium, six basketball hoops, and two volleyball nets, and are used heavily in the winter by school classes and by town residents and special groups. Bike racks, showers, drinking water, supervision and first aid are available at this site. Facilities generally in good condition, however, recurring problems with neighbors has limited the use of this site. Northampton High School 21 acres Ownership: City Zoning: URB -Flood Zone Management: School Department Building use Recreation Department Field use This large school site offers both indoor and outdoor recreational facilities and is used heavily by the school (physical education and interscholastic sports), and by residents city -wide. Kearney Field site offers outdoor recreational facilities including: playground equipment, a field house, two storage buildings, three ball diamonds, a soccer field, a field hockey field, a football field, two grassed gym fields, a track, a lacrosse field, bleachers, and a concession ;stand. These facilities are used very heavily in the spring, summer, and fall, depending upon the sport season. Indoor facilities used during the school year include: a gymnasium, a universal gym, bleachers, basketball hoops, and an auditorium. Ramps and special toilet facilities are available for the handicapped. Jackson Street School 7.2 acres Ownership: Zoning: URB Management: School Department Building use Recreation Department Field use An elementary school site offering both indoor and outdoor recreational facilities and used heavily throughout the school year by the school and by neighborhood residents. Extensive playground equipment, two ball diamonds, one soccer /football field, one touch football field, two basketball courts, and one wading pool comprise the outdoor facilities for spring, summer, and fall. Indoor facilities include: a gymnasium with six basketball hoops, three volleyball nets, gymnastics equipment, bleachers for 175 people (year- round). Parking, bike racks, showers, drinking water, supervision and first -aid are available at this site. Provisions for handicapped also available. Wooded area on site could possible provide outdoor education /nature study activities. Bridge Street School Ownership: Zoning: URC Management: An elementary school site offering limited outdoor recreational facilities and used heavily throughout the school year by the school and neighborhood residents. The site offers the city's first "adventure playground' .(wooden play apparatus) constructed by volunteers. Also offers full sized outdoor basketball court (blacktopped) and some swings. South Street School City City Ownership: City Zoning: URB School Department PAGE 14 Management: School Department An elementary school site offering limited outdoor recreational facilities used throughout the school year by the school and neighborhood residents. The site offers and 'adventure playground' and a small blacktopped play area. The school utilizes nearby Veteran's Field during season's of good weather. Smith Vocational School 78.9 acres Ownership: City Zoning: URA Management: Smith School Trustees Building use Recreation Department Tennis courts and field use Used heavily by the school for physical education classes and interscholastic sports, and by residents city -wide throughout the school year, this school site with a two -acre athletic field area and indoor facility offers both outdoor and indoor recreational activities. Outdoor facilities include: eight tennis courts, an exercise trail and a soccer field. Back sections of this site are wooded and contain a "rope course" used in physical education classes. Indoor facilities include: a gymnasium, a universal gym, and six basketball hoops. There are handicap accessible facilities. PARKS Look Memorial Park 200+ acres Ownership: City Management: Trustees of Look Park, Inc. (under terms of a will) A beautiful large park maintained under the guidance of trustees and funded by entrance fees and an endowment. There are numerous facilities, including: natural land and water areas, picnicking facilities, six tennis courts, an outdoor swimming pool and service building, many playfields for baseball, volleyball, football, softball, basketball and shuffleboard, train rides, food stands and marked trails. Other activities available are paddle boats, cross country skiing, ice skating, band concerts and theater productions. Some equipment may be rented at the site and lockers, drinking water and bike racks are available. This area receives very heavy recreational use (regional) throughout the year. Childs Park 30 acres Ownership: Zoning: URA Management: Trinity Row 1/2 acre Ownership: City Zoning: URB Maintenance: DPW Childs Park Foundation, Inc. Trustees Essentially for 'passive' recreational activities (particularly walking and sitting) rather than active sports (which are prohibited) this park is located close to densely populated areas, is beautifully landscaped (trees, shrubs, flowers, rose garden) and also has a scenic drive winding through it. There are two large open spaces as well as a large wooded area. There are no picnic or garbage facilities at the site. The area receives medium to heavy use by residents city -wide. An ornamental open space street park containing a fountain and various memorials, PAGE 15 this site receives light year -round local neighborhood use. Benches could increase its potential for use. Leeds Memorial 1.6 acres Ownership: Zoning: URA Maintenance: A small grassed area directly opposite Leeds School, this site contains memorials and is used by Leeds residents. Benches would increase its potential for use. Pulaski Park 1 acre Ownership: Zoning: CB Maintenance: A small rectangular City park of about one acre, with memorials, benches, and paths for sitting and strolling, this site is located in the heart of downtown Northampton. It receives heavy city -wide use throughout the spring, summer, and fall. It has great potential for use by the elderly. South Main Street and Berkshire Terrace Ownership: City Zoning: URC Maintenance: DPW A small grassed corner lot with no facilities. Kolodzinski Park 1/4 acre Ownership: City Zoning: URB Maintenance: DPW A small ornamental open space located in the center of Florence. With a fountain and a memorial, this site is lightly used by residents city -wide. Park benches would enhance this street park. V.F.W. Memorial Ownership: City Zoning: GB, URB A small park located near the center of Florence, this site contains a fountain and a memorial and is lightly used by Florence residents. Edmond J. Lampron Memorial Park Ownership: Zoning: URB Maintenance: A small ornamental triangle of about one acre, this site is used for strolling and sitting and is located in front of the Bridge Street School. Benches on site, medium use. STREETSCAPES Trumball Road Park City DPW City DPW City DPW PAGE 16 Ownership: City Zoning: URC Maintenance: DPW A small triangular grassed street park with no facilities. Northampton High School Street Parks 1/4 acre Ownership: City Zoning: URB Maintenance: DPW A series of traffic islands and a small triangular grassed area to th site irectly across from the High School. There are no facilities, yet is moderately rov ded u to better er serve high school population ny could during breaks from be p classes. Hospital Islands Ownership: City Zoning: URA, URB, NB Maintenance: DPW Larger traffic islands located directly opposite Cooley Dickinson Hospital. Heavy traffic limits this site's potential for recreational use. Park and Pine Park Ownership: City Zoning: URB Maintenance: DPW A small traffic island used by local neighborhood residents. No facilities. South Street Traffic Islands Ownership: City Zoning: URC Maintenance: DPW A small grassed traffic island with no facilities. Neighborhood. used. MISCELLANEOUS Northampton Bike Path City (easement on Mass. Elect. Co. property) Ownership: Zoning: Various Management: DPW The bicycle path is over two and a half miles long and is located on an old railroad bed running from the downtown area (end of State Street behind the er Kingsgate Plaza) in a northwesterly direction, e e Road just easterly Flore ofnceok and ot numerous neighborhoods ending up Bridge The bike path is heavily used throughout the year by both bicyclists and walkers. Hampshire YMCA 4.3 acres Ownership: YMCA Zoning: URA,URB PAGE 17 Management: YMCA This facility is utilized on a region wide basis and offers racketball, basketball, volleyball, swimming (two pools), sauna steam room, and a fitness center. Heavy year -round use, membership /fees required. Peoples Institute 1.5 acres Ownership: Peoples Institute Zoning: CB Management: Peoples Institute This facility offers arts crafts classes, educational programs, and summer day camps for elementary age children. The facility includes an gymnasium and an outdoor pool. Fee required. Academy of Music Ownership: Zoning: URC Management: City Trustees An indoor recreation facility auditorium /movie theater, resident theater productions available for used on a city -wide basis. There Senior Center Indoor Facility Forbes Library Indoor Facility which includes a stage, an. 850 -seat ballet company and orchestra; facilities for rent. This recreational facility is heavily are no provisions for the handicapped. Ownership: City Zoning: CB Management: Council on Aging Located in Memorial Hall on Main Street, this center provides year -round recreational activities for senior citizens and us used heavily by residents 60 years or older throughout the City. Activities include: arts and crafts, sewing instruction /machines, bus tours, meals on wheels, dances, bingo. Buses with lifts are available for the handicapped, but no ramps or special toilets exist. Ownership: City Zoning: URC Management: Forbes Library A heavily used library offering many activities and facilities to City and regional residents year- round, including special groups and the Northampton Preservation Society. Facilities include: a movie theater, audiovisual department, art department, and children's department, movies, arts and crafts displays, children's programs, in addition to normal library activities. Northampton Revolver Club 34.3 acres Ownership: Northampton Revolver Club, Inc. Zoning: URA Management: Northampton Revolver Club, Inc. A private club offering indoor and outdoor target shooting facilities to member throughout the region. Light use. Tri- County Fairgrounds 42 acres PAGE 18 0 Ownership: Hampshire, Franklin, Hampden Agricultural Society Zoning: URA,URB -Flood Zone Management: Hampshire, Franklin, Hampden Agricultural Receiving heavy regional use during the fair and racing season, this facility contains an exhibition area, race track (horse), baseball field, playfields, picnic area and a field house. This is the most recent proposed site for the indoor skating facility. SECTION IV. RESULTS OF CITIZEN TELEPHONE SURVEY The citizens' telephone survey was conducted over the course of two evenings (a Monday and a Wednesday) by representatives of the Northampton League of Women Voters and the Retired Seniors Volunteer Program from and under the direction of the Northampton Office of Planning Development. One hundred and thirty -five (135) Northampton households were contacted, of which ninety -five (95) chose to participate and forty (40) declined. All of those who chose to participate were read the same survey. DEMOGRAPHICS OF RESPONDENTS: Sex: Age: male 40% female 60% under 18 5.3% 18 -25 9.5% 26 -34 23.2% 35 -50 38.9% 51 -65 15.8% over 65 7.4% Number of Persons in Household: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Dormitory 9.6% 27.7% 18.1% 26.6% 8.5% 6.4% 2.1% 1.1% Length of Time Residinc in Northampton (years): 1 -5 13.7% 6 -10 11.6% 11 -20 30.5% 21 -30 11.6% 31 -45 14.7% over 46 17.9% SUMMARY OF CITIZENS' RESPONSES Most Popular Summer Activities: swimming 49.5% bicycling 29.5% PAGE 19 walking hiking fishing jogging camping golf 22.2% 21.1% 10.6% 9.5% 7.4% 5.3% Most Popular Winter Activities: ice skating 32.7% cross country skiing 28.5% sledding 17.9% walking 15.8% downhill skiing 14.8% stay inside 12.7% swimming 10.6% indoor team sports 10.6% hiking 8.5% snowmobile 5.3% snow shoeing 4.3% Acre Groups That Need Expanded Recreational Facilities/ Opportunities: teenagers 68.6% handicapped 59.6% families 56.2% over 65 54.1% 5 -12 years old 48.2% 40 -65 years old 40.5% under 5 years old 29.1% 25 -40 years old 29.1% 19 -24 years old 28.1% Most Needed Recreational Facilities /Opportunities: #1 teen center #2 (tie) more neighborhood areas for children more family oriented #3 more handicapped accessible activities and areas #4 drop in center for toddlers #5 (tie) senior exercise and swimming programs bike paths dances /concerts Events That You Would Like the Community to Sponsor: concerts 86.0% nature outings 82.8% arts crafts festivals 82.1% historical programs 81.5% drama productions 75.0% holiday events 74.2% tournament sports 66.3% road races (running) 57.1% Frequency of Visits to Conservation Areas: Often Barrett Street Marsh 14.7% Elwell Island 10.6% Roberts Hill 10.6% Fitzgerald Lake 6.4% Not Often Never 9.5% 75.8% 26.6% 59.0% 10.6% 78.7% 27.7% 66.0% PAGE 20 Rainbow Beach 5.3% 12.6% 82.1% Marian Street 1.1% 3.2% 95.7% Important Reasons For Keeping Land Undeveloped: wildlife habitats 94.7% natural scenic areas 93.7% farmland 92.6% floodplains,watersheds,wetlands 90.5% informal /passive recreation 84.2% Should the City Acquire More Land for Green /Open Space Protection: Yes 77.9% No 6.3% No Opinion 14.7% Have You Ever Used the Connecticut River: Yes 76.3% No 23.6% Is Public Access to the River Adequate: Yes 53.7% No 41.8% No Opinion 4.5% SECTION V. NEEDS ASSESSMENT Although Northampton has more open space and recreation lands than many other communities in the Commonwealth, residents and public officials feel strongly that more of these facilities are needed. Seventy eight percent of the respondents in our survey indicated they felt the community should acquire more open space. Most residents cited the need to protect wildlife habitats, natural scenic areas, farmland, floodplains, watersheds, and wetlands, and passive recreation opportunities. As development continues to occur in Northampton, there is a wide perception that all the existing open space is being lost and permanently protected open space is needed more than ever. A large majority of respondents also cited the need for additional recreational facilities. Residents felt that a wider range of recreational opportunities was needed. The Conservation Commission and Planning Board and other city boards and planning officials have identified the following as the most critical open space needs. Other open space and conservation needs exist and are planned for in this document. 1. Passive recreation opportunities throughout the city (especially including the south -west quarter of the city where there are few protected conservation parcels. 2. Open space parcels that can be linked to or are adjoining to existing open space parcels, for recreation value and to provide large natural habitat areas. 3. Protection of critical habitat, including wetlands and any habitat with rare or endangered species, wherever it occurs in the City. 4. Protection of a range of natural habitat types. 5. Acquisition of any available land along the Connecticut, Mill, and Manhan Rivers. 6. Open space parcels that help define Northampton's character, including parcels at the "entrances" to the City and parcels that limit the PAGE 21 expansion of development into previously rural areas. 7. Protection of farmland, forest land and the rural character of outlying areas. 8. Protection of the Northampton's drinking water supply watershed and aquifer lands and of Hatfield's aquifer. 9. Limited improvements, including improvements to make some conservation areas handicap accessible. 10. Fishing and informal swimming opportunities in conservation areas. The Recreation Commission, Planning Board and other city boards and officials have identified the following as the most critical recreation needs. Other recreational needs exist are planned for in this document. 1. Additional recreation opportunities in areas that are currently inadequately served, especially the south -west quarter of the city. 2. Improvement of facilities, especially restrooms, equipment, and handicap accessibility, at existing recreation areas. 3. A wider diversity of recreation facilities, especially in -door facilities. 4. Swimming opportunities, especially out -door, in improved recreation areas. SECTION VI. POLICIES, GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The "Comprehensive Plan" defines the following policies related to conservation and recreation in Northampton. Policies: 1. Space should be provided for outdoor and indoor recreation with values to individuals of all ages. 2. The urban environment should be made a more attractive place in which to live. 3. Important natural resources and important historic, geologic and horticultural features should be preserved. 4. Recreational and open space opportunities should be provided, along a framework commensurate with the city's expanding population, to serve the needs of future generations. 5. The multiple functioning of open spaces should be achieved to the fullest extent possible where appropriate in terms of the nature of the land. 6. Areas required for the future open space, conservation and recreational needs of the Community should be acquired early -on to ensure its availability at a reasonable cost. 7. The maximum utilization of facilities should be achieved through the joint use by the school department and the recreation department of both school and recreation department facilities. In support of and in addition to these basic policies, the following goals and objectives were developed from input from the Steering Committing, the Conservation Commission, and the Recreation Commission, and offer greater detail and breakdown. A. CONSERVATION COMMISSION GOALS AND OBJECTIVES I. Goal To maintain environmental quality including a visually interesting and diverse landscape with diversified land uses. PAGE 22 II. Objectives: a. identify and encourage proper development in areas suitable for development; b. identify, regulate, and protect areas with hazards or limitations for development; c. develop and promote open space and recreation opportunities to identify and predict population distribution; d. identify and protect visual scenic resources and unique areas; e. identify areas that appropriately serve as open space buffers between incompatible uses; f. identify, protect, and where necessary, restore sites and structures of significant historical and cultural value. Goal To protect and conserve public and private surface and ground water resources. Objectives: a. protect water supply watersheds; b. identify and protect ground water resources; c. identify and protect ground water recharge areas; d. identify and protect wetland areas and flood plains; e. protect the water quality of impounded areas; f. identify sources of and control non -point pollution. III. Goal To preserve sensitive areas and agricultural land. Objectives: a. acquire or otherwise protect environmentally sensitive areas, such as wetlands stream, pond, and lake borders slopes greater than 25 and ground water recharge areas; b. identify, protect, and maintain agricultural land presently in agricultural use; c. identify and protect prime agricultural land not now in agricultural use, for future agricultural needs. IV. Goal To preserve, manage, and promote natural and open space areas for conservation purposes. Objectives: a. identify and acquire or preserve areas suitable for the conservation of wildlife; b. acquire or preserve contiguous parcels of natural and open space areas; c. demonstrate and encourage forestry management practices which will help PAGE 23 to develop suitable wildlife habitat, enhance future yields, and cause the least disruption to the ecosystem; d. preserve and provide for open space and buffers in developments in conjunction with the Subdivision approval and Special Permit (Cluster Development, etc.) processes. V. Goal To integrate recreation and conservation activities and provide appropriate recreational programs using conservation areas. Objectives: a. identify and promote multi -use management plans and policies for conservation and watershed lands; b. establish a recreation /conservation committee comprised of members from each of the respective commission; c. provide areas for "passive recreation" such as hiking, walking, cross country skiing, boating and canoeing, and picnicking; d. provide access and facilities for handicapped citizens; e. conduct informational meetings and tours of conservation and watershed lands to promote appropriate uses and a sense of stewardship of these areas. VI. Goal To maintain and upgrade existing conservation and watershed lands. Objectives: a. develop a management plan for each area that is appropriate for the site. B RECREATION COMMISSION GOALS AND OBJECTIVES I. Goal To provide a balanced active recreation program designed to meet the needs of people of varied ages and interests. Objectives a. provide for the needs of the community as interests change; b. create a liaison between the Recreation Commission and each special interest league; c. educate the public about existing recreation sites, facilities, etc.; d. provide access and facilities for handicapped citizens; e. develop new public swimming areas; f. develop new public skating facilities. II. Goal To maintain and upgrade existing active recreation areas and facilities. Objectives: a. to encourage the consolidation of the physical maintenance of City- PAGE 24 owned active recreational facilities by the City recreation Department; b. support the findings and conclusions of the Look Memorial Park Master Plan. SECTION VII. FIVE YEAR LAND ACQUISITION AND LAND USE ACTION PROGRAM A. CONSERVATION, PASSIVE RECREATION (CONSERVATION COMMISSION) The Northampton Conservation Commission's program of land acquisition and land use management was established to protect, preserve and utilize the valuable unique, educational, recreational and vital natural resources of this City. This program attempts to identify the highest and best uses of the land and to perpetuate its naturalness, availability and utilization. This program has been developed in two basic formats: (1) those projects proposed to be implemented on a specific year -by -year basis over the next five years: and (2) those projects proposed to be implemented on an on -going basis over the next five years. 1. SPECIFIC YEAR -BY -YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN YEAR ONE o Fitzgerald Lake /Marion Street Conservation Areas Linkage Currently there is only one parcel between the Fitzgerald Lake and Marion Street Conservation Areas. The acquisition of this parcel, or even only that portion of the parcel which falls within the floodplain and bordering vegetated wetlands of the Broad Brook, would create one continuous band of public open space through much of the northern tier of Northampton between Route 5 and North Farms Road. This acquisition would conceivably and ultimately lead to an integrated band of public open space and trail systems stretching across the entire width of northern Northampton between Route 5 and the Northampton /Westhampton Town Line. o Old Mill River Greenbelt /Downtown Urban Walkway This project includes those lands bordering on the Old Mill River between the Hampden Avenue Parking Lot and Pound Lane, which are not already highly developed. Plans would call for a simple pedestrian walkway following the edge of the river, with a number of crossings. This would link with the proposed Downtown Urban Walkway which would be a more highly developed walkway along the old railroad bed which would link the Hampden Avenue Parking Lot with Pleasant Street and Main Street. This Old Mill River Greenbelt would be controlled by the Conservation Commission either through outright purchase, gift, and /or conservation restrictions and easements. The purpose of this project would be to maintain the integrity of this area in its vital function as a flood storage area, as well as preserving one of the last vestiges of open space in this downtown area. YEAR TWO o Roberts Hill Overlook The purchase of this parcel, which abuts both the Roberts Hill Conservation Area and a vast holding of city watershed land, provides a commanding and panoramic view of the Roberts Hill Reservoir and the hills of Westhampton, the foothills to the Berkshires. This parcel also includes the remains of an abandoned rock quarry. The area is comprised of mainly a northern hardwood forest with extensive plantings of mountain laurel. An informal PAGE 25 footpath already extends from the Roberts Hill Conservation Area to this overlook. The acquisition of this area is essential to preserving and maintaining for the public one of the best views of Northampton. YEAR THREE o Northampton State Hospital /Old Ice Pond Site This old ice pond site is the last portion of open space at the Northampton State Hospital which has limited development potential which yet has not been placed under some sort of protection. It provides a buffer between the Hampshire County Jail site and the developing residential neighborhood on Westhampton Road. YEAR FOUR o Roberts Hill /Marion Street Conservation Areas Linkage The acquisition of only two additional key parcels is all that is required to develop one contiguous and integrated band of public open space and trail system to stretch across the entire northern portion of Northampton, reaching from Route 5 (No. King Street) to the Northampton /Westhampton Town Line. This system would include municipally owned and /or controlled: conservation areas, school sites, cemeteries, parks and watersheds. This trail system would also link up with the Northampton Bikeway, which connects with the downtown /commercial district. YEAR FIVE o Better Public Utilization of DPW Watersheds The Commission will work with the Northampton Board of Public Works to open up and utilize public watershed holding for limited, compatible and controlled passive recreational uses. The BPW has vast open space, watershed holdings in Northampton, many of which directly abut existing conservation areas. It is hoped that some passive recreational uses which would not pose a threat to the public water supply (hiking, cross country skiing) could be implemented. 2. ON -GOING IMPLEMENTATION PLAN PAGE 26 o Provide for open space areas within developments in conjunction with subdivision approval and Special Permit (cluster development, etc.) processes. o Aquifer /Watershed Areas The City has recently completed a hydrological study of the aquifer for the municipal well sites. The final conclusions of this study are that the City should attempt to secure all of the available land undeveloped with the Zone 2 3 of the well's recharge area to prevent development of the land with land uses which could pose a potential pollutant threat. The Conservation Commission will work closely with the Planning Board and the Board of Public Works to identify those parcels which are key to the long term availability of potable public water supply, as well as seeking out funding sources for acquisition, either in fee, or the purchase of conservation restrictions /easements and development rights. o Agricultural Land Preservation The conversion of agricultural land to nonagricultural uses is occurring at an alarming rate throughout the region and the United States. As more and 0 more areas suitable for development are developed, more and more pressure is put on the remaining agricultural land. Though much of the agricultural land in Northampton is within the floodplain and is thus restricted from on- agricultural uses through zoning or the Wetlands Protection Act, there is still much farmland in the Park Hill Area, Sylvester Road area and Florence area which is still subject to development pressures. Agricultural land serves a vital purpose in the communities open space. needs. The City should work closely with farmers to take advantage of the various state taxation programs, as well as participation in the States' Agricultural Preservation Restriction Program, even to the point of including municipal funds towards their purchase. o Preservation of Ridge Lines Efforts should be taken to preserve the views of and from the numerous ridge lines that encompass the western portions of the city. These include the Mineral Hills, Sawmill Hills and Turkey Hill areas. o The Mill River Greenbelt The Mill River Greenbelt will include those lands bordering the river which are not already highly developed. The Conservation Commission would control these lands through purchase, gifts, and conservation restrictions and easements. The amount of land under Commission control would depend on the topography, availability, natural boundaries, and the state of development. Any large areas bordering the river which are listed in the following categories of Natural Area or Special Areas should be considered for inclusion in the Greenbelt. A number of important goals could be accomplished through Conservation Commission control. The flood plain could be preserved as an integral part of the river to insure a continuation of its unique ecology and to protect the citizens of Northampton from periodic flooding. The river would remain accessible to the public for the uses listed below. Those areas bordering the river which are still in a natural state could remain so in perpetuity. Uses of the Mill River Greenbelt The following uses are intentionally general statements meant to apply to most of the lands bordering the river. It is understood that specific areas will have particular uses depending on their existing development, location, topography, and municipal and commonwealth laws. It should be clearly understood however, that the philosophy of the Conservation Commission calls for minimal alteration or development of lands under its control. Further, the Conservation Commission has no desire to promote, conduct, or sponsor any forms of recreation which might demand alteration of natural areas. Suggested Uses: 1. Field laboratory studies conducted by responsible individuals, and public and private schools. 2. Hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, and other forms of passive recreation, limited to those areas so designated. 3. Hunting, fishing, and trapping, as described by the Massachusetts Fish and Game Laws. 4. Preservation and maintenance of protected areas as natural sanctuaries. o Natural Areas PAGE 27 Acquisition of Natural Areas should be based on the need to preserve large tracts of undeveloped land, samples of disappearing vegetative types and ecosystems, unique or outstanding natural features, and the habitats for wildlife with threatened populations, Natural Areas, by their very nature, are regulated as living museums with little or no ecological manipulation. They are established as essentially inviolate areas where natural conditions are allowed to prevail. Forestry practices, camping, or any type of extensive or intensive mass use will not be permitted. If chosen wisely, Natural Areas will be of value as scientific research and teaching areas, educational study plots, buffer zones between high- density population centers, watershed protection areas, and areas for passive recreation. Those areas which should be considered for natural Areas include: 1. lands between high- density population centers; 2. wetlands areas including bogs, marshes, swamps, ponds, and special lakes or streams; 3. special and unique landforms, such as archeological sites, drumlins, high points, public water supply watersheds, etc.; 4. any given area which may be established for scientific investigation of natural phenomena, such as'exotic plant invasion, etc.; 5. areas protected for species which are limited in range or which are in danger of becoming extinct; 6. areas supporting stable vegetative types, such as climax forests. Uses of Natural Areas In general, the uses listed for the Mill River Greenbelt would be applicable for Natural Areas. o DEVELOPMENT OF TRAIL SYSTEMS A trail is a deliberate man -made pathway, not as wide as a road or lane, which is largely and typically designed for foot travel. A trail is one of the most effective methods of providing opportunities for firsthand experiences in the outdoors. Natural history is best understood by individuals or small groups as they stroll along at a comfortable pace or sit at an overlook and contemplate their immediate surroundings. The kinds of trails include the following: 1. A general trail is put through an another taking everything into geology, trees, flowers, signs of landscape. This approach has simplicity. 2. Subject trails can meet the needs of individuals and groups with special interests. A set of connected ideas is easier to follow and easier to remember than a succession of random observations about many subjects. Some subjects might include: a. b. c. d. e. f. Mill River Brook or stream Conservation History Soil Forest or timber PAGE 28 area from one point of interest to consideration scenery, history, animal life or whatever is on the the virtues of naturalness and g. Bog, marsh, pond, or swamp h. Geology 3. A wilderness trail is unlabeled and leads through the most remote and primitive natural area available for solitude and aesthetic appreciation. No development is suitable for a wilderness area other than the trail and a few rustic benches. 4. Hiking trails are provided when the site is not large enough or is not suitable for a wilderness trail. the trail is non labeled and permits aesthetic walks, photography, painting, creative writing, an d the opportunity to be in the outdoors. 5. A few trails are designed from the standpoint of the user rather than the subject matter to be presented. Subject matter and facilities are handled to suit those who use each of the following trails: a. Equestrian b. Bicycle c. Boat d. Tiny tots e. Sight impaired f. Non ambulatory A trail is a planned way of arousing and sustaining interest and /or presenting organized information. The fixed position of the trail gives direction and purpose to the movement of the visitors. The acquisition of trail areas can be outright on public lands or through easements on private lands. Uses of Trail Systems The uses of trail systems include the following: 1. Education furnishes stimulating locations for communication of information about the environment. 2. Research provides opportunity for systematic inquiry into the outdoors through experimentation and scientific observation. 3. Conservation offers a practical place to apply information about the environment in an effort to discover the best ways of managing natural resources. A trail system and adjacent land should be a model of effective natural resource management and good conservation practice. 4. Access directs people away from the transportation terminal or parking lot and into a specific area of land. 5. Route and direction discourages indiscriminate wandering and encourages visitors to follow a predetermined pattern of travel. 6. Culture contributes to human enlightenment and refinement through aesthetic experience. 7. Interpretation makes it possible for history and nature to come alive through direct contact. 8. Inspiration gives motivation to learning and stimulation to PAGE 29 creative expression. The Conservation Commission reserves the right to exclude motorized vehicles from trails and lands under its control. On those lands where such use is permitted, a written permit will be required from the Commission o Buffer Zones Buffer zones are intended to include those areas which serve as zones of relief from two incompatible uses. Buffer zones are differentiated from greenbelts and linear areas by the nature of their size. Open space, green areas, tree belts, water courses, screen plantings, and other natural physical barriers can be considered as buffer zones. Acquisition of buffer areas would be on the basis of protecting and preserving that use or natural condition by not destroying the purpose for which it was intended. Priority or acquisition of buffer zones would be determined by the degree of stress applied by the adjoining areas. Additional uses may be assigned by the Conservation Commission according to the potential of the land. o Special Areas Special areas are so named because they may cover situations not easily classified in the other categories. The special areas would generally consist of unique and limited use sites. Suggested lands might include: a. b. c. d. e. f. g. Small, lot -sized areas near schools Archeological sites Aquifer re- charge areas Access rights -of -way Water supply streams Reclaimed land Open areas which are parts of cluster or planned unit developments B. ACTIVE RECREATION (RECREATION COMMISSION) 5 YEAR ACTION PLAN High Priority Upgrade and Re- Design City Owner Recreational Facilities There is a pressing need to closely examine the existing recreational facilities throughout the City for the purpose of upgrading and re- designing where necessary. In most open space areas of the City the recreational facilities are antiquated and in dire need of upgrading. The age of the equipment in itself presents dangerous conditions when used by City residents. There is a need to replace this equipment with new equipment that conforms to currently nationally accepted safety standards. There also exists a need to review these areas in terms of meeting the changing needs of the neighborhood and the City as a whole. As noted above these areas were developed many years ago. As such the facilities represent the needs of the neighborhood during that time period. The City needs to look at our current recreational needs for facilities and possibly re- design these areas to better serve the general public. PAGE 30 Plan and Develop Handicapped Accessible Facilities With the City's recreational areas and facilities having been developed years ago, there is a concern that in most cases the areas are not accessible to the handicapped individuals. There should be an immediate effort to upgrade the existing facilities to adhere strictly to state and federal guidelines for handicapped accessibility. Naturally, this handicapped accessible conscientious should be a priority consideration in all future development of new recreational facilities. Administrative Re- organization Park /School Maintenance Currently the maintenance responsibility for the City's athletic and park areas is under the jurisdiction of the School Department and the Department of Public Works. In many areas there are overlapping responsibilities resulting in personnel conflicts as well as a lack of quality maintenance. There is a definite need to re- organize this maintenance function so that the responsibilities are clearly under the jurisdiction of one department. The Recreation Commission advocates the establishment of a Parks and Recreation Department as the most efficient means to accomplish the goal of quality maintenance for the City's park system. RECREATION CENTER One of the priority items detailed in recent City surveys is the need for a teen center. The Recreation Commission feels that a multi purpose recreational center would serve to meet this very important need as well as to allow for a great expansion of leisure services for all age groups. Presently the Recreation Department use the City's schools for all indoor activity programming. The department is limited in the areas of the schools that can be utilized and the schedule of hours is limited due to custodial coverage. The Commission feels that a recreation center run by the Recreation Department would afford the scheduling flexibility to offer a greatly expanded program of leisure services for City residents. The recreation center would include an indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, exercise areas, game rooms and locker room facilities. Also, included would be space for meetings and social recreation activities. With a center that included these types of facilities the Recreation Department would be in a position to vigorously program to meet current and future leisure needs of City residents. ICE RINK /MULTI PURPOSE FACILITY Recent survey's conducted throughout the City indicate a strong need for skating facilities for City residents. The City for a number of years has worked with the state to bring a state funded ice rink to the City. For a number of reasons these efforts have stalled. The Recreation Commission feels that the facility is needed and that the state funding should be the incentive to push this project forward. The current plan calls for the state to purchase the Three County Fair Arena Building and construct the ice rink and auxiliary facilities inside. At the completion of this process the facility would be given to the City to be used as a skating rink for six months and for Fair related activities for six months. PAGE 31 The Recreation Commission sees this facility as a tremendous addition to the City's inventory of recreational facilities. Every effort should be made to expedite this process and move forward with this project. Approved Subdivisions Provide for neighborhood active recreation areas (tot lots, etc.) in conjunction with Subdivision and Special Permit (cluster development, etc.) processes. Medium Priority Land Acquisition for Future Recreation Development With the ever changing development picture in the City there is a need to acquire open space for future recreational needs. The plan for acquisition should be concentrated in areas of the City experiencing the most growth. If done properly this planned acquisition would allow the City to continue to provide recreational facilities on a neighborhood basis throughout the City. Presently the areas of concentrated development in the City are as follows: a. b. c d. Atwood Drive Area This 12 acre parcel adjacent to the Northampton Hilton Inn was purchased by the City as a possible site for the state funded skating facility. Any possible ice facility construction on this site was abandoned due to the high costs for the construction. The Recreation Commission feels that this area should be scheduled for development as a recreational facility. With approximately 8 of the 12 acres located in a flood plain the land would not be available for any building development but it would be suitable for athletic field areas. Acquisition: Northampton Country Club Recent condominium development around the northampton Country Club has placed the future of the golf course in jeopardy. With the condominium construction nearing completion there exists a great deal of confusion regarding the operation of the course. The developer holds the rights to the use of the course and owns the clubhouse as well as auxiliary buildings. Currently he is leasing these facilities to the club membership. There exists some doubt as to the ability of the club to meet the lease requirements and remains financially solvent. Rather than let this very valuable recreational facility cease to exist, it is thought that steps should be taken to utilize any means possible to place the course under the jurisdiction of the City. Under City management it would be feasible to work our financial arrangements with the club membership board of directors to insure the continued use of this area as a golf course. Low Priority Route 66 area North King Street area Meadow Street area Ryan Road area Fitzgerald Lake Recreation Development PAGE 32 C� The Recreation Commission feels that this wooded area should be developed for passive recreation activities as well as active recreation pursuits that would be compatible with the natural setting. The Recreation Commission should continue to work with the Conservation Commission to plan to provide cross country skiing, hiking, and nature study at this site. Plans should also be studied to utilize the lake for non motorized boating, fishing and swimming. c. FIVE YEAR ACTION PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION As noted previously, emphasis must be placed on improved open space and recreation management, including revitalization and further development of existing areas, as well as an implementation of several major projects, including Elwell Island, the Ice Skating Rink, and the Look Park Connector Bikeway. Please refer to the accompanying chart for a detailed breakdown of the Action Program objectives. Implementation of the Acquisition Program Acquisitions in the open market will in part depend on supply and demand and on the availability of funds. Availability of land and favorable financial terms will affect actual sequence of acquisition. Acquisition of land for the protection of unique natural systems, valuable natural resources, or other special areas may depend as well on the immediacy of any threat of their loss to future development and flexibility in timing may be important. Tools for Land Acquisition: The City has a number of alternative tools available for acquiring open space. We do not believe that any single tool is preferable to the others in all cases: the guiding principle must be one of pragmatism, and therefore, a matter for the judgement of the City agencies responsible for land acquisitions or control. Therefore, we simply list below the major tools available, appending qualifying or explanatory information. a. Purchase -In -Fee Simple: Perhaps the simplest of the tools from a procedural standpoint, outright purchase may be the most expensive tool in terms of initial dollar outlay for a given piece of land (but the differential may not be so great as one might at first think); (see b. below). The added initial cost brings some benefits, e.g., total City control of the land in perpetuity (or until the City decides to sell it), but also perhaps some costs, e.g., full responsibility for managing and maintaining the land. b. Purchase -In- Less Than Fee (Conservation Restrictions and Easements): The purchase of conservation restrictions and easements to control open land involves buying rights of development or access for a piece of land but leaving the title in the original owner's hands. Such acquisitions can include or exclude responsibilities for management and maintenance. Restrictions and easements may be cheaper than out -right purchase on a given piece of land. However, restrictions can conceivably cost nearly as much as outright purchase because the land owner will forego considerable income. But in some cases owners may be unwilling to sell such less than -fee deeds but willing to sell the land out right. Eminent Domain: The basic assumption of the Northampton Conservation Commission's program of land acquisition should be that the City will acquire land or rights through normal market channels as one of possible many buyers. However, even when a sale is arranged at a price PAGE 33 agreeable to all parties, if the price is over 125% of the assessed value, under State law the City must still exercise eminent domain. It is important for the public to understand that such situations are "friendly takings and not unwanted exercise of the City's power. The exercise of eminent Domain without prior agreement should be considered only when the City's open space program would be seriously jeopardized if the land in question were acquired by another party, and when no other arrangement can be reached between the owner and the City. d. Reimbursement possibilities: The cost to the City of acquisition in fee simple or in less than fee can be greatly reduced, up to 80 through State and federal funding, and up to 90% by a combination of the two. The State funds are administered by the Division of Conservation Services of the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs under the "Self -Help" and "Urban Self Help" programs. The Division of Conservation Services also administers federal funds from the Department of the Interior's "Land and Water Conservation Fund" (H.C.R.S.), which is administer. e. Purchasing Options and "Rights of First Refusal In certain cases the City may find it expedient to but an option to purchase a piece of land in other words, to make a commitment to buy the land if the City decides within a given time period. In a sense, therefore, an option is more of a tactic to pursue a program of land acquisition than a tool for keeping land as open space. A "right of first refusal" is a modified option in which the length of the time period depends upon when the land owner receives an acceptable bid from a private buyer. We have an added dollar cost, but again, rights of first refusal may be useful tactics in implementing a land acquisition program. f. Gifts and "Living trusts Gifts of land (restrictions or easements) are of course the cheapest means of acquiring open space in terms of initial cost. A modification of the outright donation of land is an arrangement called a "living trust" under which people deed their land to the City but retain a residual right to its use for the rest of their lives. The tax advantages accruing to the donor enhance gifts and living trusts as tools for acquiring open space. The City should be more active in seeking monetary contributions from the general public to help supplement the cost of open space acquisition, especially from those neighborhoods within which open space acquisition is being contemplated. h. Open Space and recreation areas can be provided in conjunction with approved subdivisions and Special Permits (cluster developments, etc.). The City plans to integrate its efforts in the open space and recreation area into a developing Community Development Block Program. Hopefully, CDBG funds will help supplement City monies and provide leveraging for other grant monies or in certain instances be used to substantially fund acquisition and /or development or recreation areas. g- Administrative history Adopted by Conservation Commission, Recreation Commission, Planning Board, City Council, 1988 Submitted to PVPC Division of Conservation Services, 1/17/89 PAGE 34 PVPC Review and Approval Letter, 3/16/89 Division of Conservation Services Review Letter, 2/13/89 Administrative Revisions, 1/4/91 (in response to DCS comments) (openspace.1994 1/4/91) PAGE 35 TIMOTHY W. BRENNAN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR P26 NEER VALLEY PLANNING COMMISSION NTRAL STREET, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS 01089 (413)781 -6045 March 16, 1989 Mr. Laurence B. Smith, Senior Planner Office of Planning and Development City Hall 20 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060 Reference: Northampton Open Space, Conservation and Recreation Five -Year Master Plan 1989 -1994 Dear Mr. Smith: The Pioneer Valley Planning Commissiion has carefully reviewed the above referenced plan and find it to be consistent with regional goals and objectives. The Commission is impressed by your ambitious and balanced approach for improving the supply of open space, protection of important resources and expanding recreational opportunities through an aggressive acquisition and resource management program. Particularly noteworthy is the city's plan to integrate its efforts in this area into a developing Community Development Program thereby guaranteeing important re creation /open space needs and demands be linked to a broad based community program. We congratulate the city and Open Space Planning Committee in this endeavor and support its afforts:. n' realizing Sincerely, Timoth Brennan Execu iv Director TWB /bs k'V 2 C i189 ,tom wh...!.CE OF P t N N AND .D.E.Y.i4cas i ENT Wayne M. Feiden, Environmental Planner Office of Planning and Development City Hall 210 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060 January 8, 1991 Dear Mr. Feiden: i have received Northampton's revised "Open Space, Conservation Recreation Five Year Master Plan, 1989- 1994 The revisions meet our requirements. Northampton is now eligible to participate in our Division's grant programs through January, 1994. Congratulations! Sincerely, .t,b4:-k C. Elizabeth A. Miller Program Coordinator t. W6WW1.09n °eta' le,,aidadlideali (rJxecuaite ©lice o/ (anve onmen €ad e4'j!aix� /00 gnu greet .W6 02202 „�-z a we dzi (oxectcaie "tee enteeXonmentai �54G��aiod g ve:Gaiv 1 WandP natifs1?/ e9 eL�& etG Jademital/efda% /00 a/rrc a -Yfireet; Radon/ 02202 Wayne M. Feiden, Environmental Planner Office of Planning and Development City Hall 210 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060 January 8, 1991 Dear Mr. Feiden: I have received Northampton's revised "Open Space, Conservation Recreation Five Year Master Plan, 1989-1994”. The revisions meet our requirements. Northampton is now eligible to participate in our Division's grant programs through January, 1994. Sincerely, Congratulations! 't., 1 Elizabeth A. Miller Program Coordinator UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR GEOLOGICAL SURVEY 2 12 0 2 •22 is W.14, NORTHAM 91(no1 1911, Co .v vECT/cuT- 0 Quadrangle Location COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS C f il I te r th Hidley 1 •4 4.210 \..,/-1-,,, 4...\;1, 1,L,r--_,.,...- rte. ll s .W 1 ill: Scale: 1 5000' i o loan 0 1000 1000 5000 7000 PM I MILE MT. HOLYOKE QUADRANGLE MASSACHUSETTS 7.5 MINUTE SERIES (TOPOGRAPHIC) R 42 xr2o- i .1 K 184 Mt HOLYOKE 20 i L T Lf c CL h UNITED STATES '7 DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR f r lz. S. Llytt 0. ....,,,,_-i 7 „-'o.r 7 4 7 r GEOLOGICAL SURVEY VC, 7 \I- 7/, -1....."4 •99"1 V z2 JO' 7.1".! 91 99:179 II 9 A n A S 8 c; ...iii):\T s2i, or° I il 0 i 'A 1.. t l i' .kk -il -.143- solace 1.::. t •_,--1,- 7; Li -•,..0..,, t k 1 -1 .....-44 r. :I• v. •cr 7 nr. i r 0. d 1 y b• .1 V .1.. f ,..1 I/ :i.. 1. 1 N A, u„I 71 Y r. 1 g i J......... 6 1 .4i r I x I il i. 11.111111:1 1'. 7- i t 7 e' lr. s‘ J ,,dr, 1 ix n 91 I -4LN c 91 1 ..........N. '1 'e'■•••• 1 A: .11 i ••1 f' '''t 'Air 4 .xt 7.1.1..g. i r ..ar.''...,:f .4 GIA II 4 a 10+ xiiames ar ,-.2.:......... 0 7... i N 4 Irstirlix ...40.- Inc grInp-zgr k f, _41\ v 4... e 1 I A• r i v z i 1 i N. N I, 1 r ..a 11 ar M.ner•I Hills 4 11. 1 i .4 I.1.11 E. I I 1•Z.. r .:.1.....o,..:-. 7'9 1 '1 1 3 1 r 1.: 0.... '1 i 19 ..90 i r 1 1 1:,..• 4 sN 1 n i i p .001101!.-tozw54.- r- 4 /I 'S. 1•1:::::::• 0' 4 Lir I vc.., 7:10 t• I. ..i.r: .00...0 4 1.- i. .1i 1....41. lE :1 1.•••• )....,,It'" N 1 111. \I' Cso 11 I i. 1.:••• 1 '...'11, v.,. ,....7,, i Clr I 4 •S• 'S N V 1. r 1 r 0 v 0 A „.ol. ....0 H T 0 N i x.orsAK i -0 Cmoo :24 v 1 't -4. A /1:• W' b 7: t e, 3; 4, 1 4 7 .0••••• s 39 111c1 1 I ill E. 0 U T Z....•A A_ P T 0 5 HI ......mr e no. t ■lit .i. tAr 4 "r, 1 try :lir s" .i COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS OF PUBLIC 'FORKS ri P'"0 PA Scale: 1": 5000' EASTHAMPTON QUADRANGLE MASSACHUSETTS 7.3 MINUTE SERIES (TOPOGRAPHIC) 40 1 mitt e: C ...1v0 romet$1470 'Vita heilif.* r*,.= s:r•. .17 rl. Quadrangle Location 3000 5000 7000 MT 1964 tr.C.99 Aet /911 Lar 41.1 .L.: .7., 1 9, IA AT X f oettlItlVATION 191. C.. 'ioce -182 EASTHAM PTO N CL c L c