CHAPTER 5 Antietam Lake Park Master Plan

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1 CHAPTER 5 Antietam Lake Park Master Plan

2 Introduction The Antietam Lake Park Master Plan illustrates the overall vision for the park, the physical configuration of proposed improvements, and strategies for resource protection. The master plan was developed in its final form after exploration of different design ideas in the conceptual alternatives and careful consideration of input from the project study committee, the general public, park users, and key stakeholders. The Antietam Lake Park Master Plan is described below followed by the master plan rendering. Nature Based Recreation Opportunities The foresight of Berks County s elected officials to acquire Antietam Lake has provided citizens significantly expanded opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors and the natural resources of the county. Opportunities to fish in a stocked lake; hike, mountain bike, and ride horses on the wooded trails; and enjoy the scenic beauty and unique features of the 641 acre site are available today and preserved for future Berks County residents. Throughout the master planning process, citizens expressed their desire to spend time at Antietam Lake Park for leisure activities and nature based recreation. The range of public recreation opportunities provided in the Antietam Lake Park Master Plan includes: Enjoying Scenic Beauty The park preserves important natural resources and scenic areas as parkland. Woodlands, riparian areas, the lake, wetlands, springs and seeps, rock outcrops, and open meadow areas are conserved, as are the historic valve house, seven step dam, and other historic resources that add to the scenic qualities of the site. Resource Based Recreation Fishing, hiking, mountainbiking, bird watching, geocaching/orienteering, nature study, cross country skiing, horse back riding, and other resource based recreation opportunities are accommodated in the park. The park will not be developed for public camping but it is envisioned that group camping for scout or school groups may be permitted on an advance permission basis. Environmental and Historic Education The resources and setting of the park presents opportunities for environmental education. The historic remnants of the sites past function as a water source for the City of Reading offer additional interpretative opportunities. Interpretative signs are suggested which explore these attributes of the park site. Antietam Lake Park Master Plan Chapter 5 1

3 Family Recreation The park provides a unique natural setting for spending time with family. Picnic areas, trails, and fishing sports are the backdrops for lifetime memories. Group Outings and Programs The picnic areas and pavilions provide space for community organizations such as the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, school ecology clubs, service clubs, and others to gather at the parks for their programs. Self Directed Activities Non scheduled time is a premium for many as we get caught up in the hectic pace of our day to day lives. Antietam Lake Park provides a place to go where activities are not scheduled, where visitors can enjoy the park at their own pace and on their own terms. Fitness and Wellness Fitness extends lives, improves self image, reduces health care costs, reduces isolation, and makes people happier. The park provides areas for people to walk, hike, mountain bike, crosscountry ski, ride horses, and spend time being active in the outdoors. Antietam Lake Park Master Plan The Antietam Lake Park Master Plan maintains the existing resource based recreation opportunities available at the park site while providing facilities to enhance the visitor s experience and promoting strategies to protect natural resources. The proposed improvements formalize the public use areas and will encourage expanded public use. Trail use will remain one of the main activities that will occur in the park and enhancements such as additional parking areas and access points, trail signs, and information kiosks will enhance these activities. These facilities will also benefit fishermen, nature lovers, and picnickers. Improvements will address safety concerns and achieve accessibility at proposed activity areas. The Antietam Lake Park Master Plan is provided on page 5 16 and Lake Area Enlargement is provided on page Recreation and Leisure Facilities Trails Trails are the primary recreation amenity at the park and extend throughout the site to provide accessible routes to facilities and activity areas and provide opportunities for walking, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and cross county skiing. Park trails and regional connections are shown on the Antietam Lake Park Master Plan. This plan suggests a hierarchy of trails to accommodate a variety of users. Some existing trails are recommended to be closed for a variety of reasons including elimination of trails in areas of sensitive natural resources, duplicative trail, trails in close proximity to private property, or trails in extremely steep or erosion prone areas. Trails for pedestrian only uses are Chapter 5 2 Antietam Lake Park Master Plan

4 proposed in the lower, more sensitive site areas. Multi use trails which can accommodate mountain bikes and equestrians are proposed in the upper elevations where the soils are stony and more stable. Trails within the parks should comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines for Outdoor Developed Areas and each facility and activity area must be connected to a parking area with an accessible route. Vehicular gates or removable bollards should be placed at all walk entries to limit access to authorized vehicles. Accessible trails are shown on the Antietam Lake Park Master Plan Lake Area Enlargement, and Hill Road Enlargement. Accessible trails should be developed with stonedust surface material to provide a firm, stable, slip resistant surface and comply with the ADA for slope. Where possible, accessible trails should be developed at a minimum eight foot width. Earthen trails extend beyond the activity areas and explore the site. Gravity Trail The Gravity Trail generally follows the route of the historic Mount Penn Gravity Railroad and extends from Antietam Lake Park to Neversink Mountain Preserve. The primary access point to the trail in Antietam Lake Park will be at the Angora Road Trailhead. A second access point in the park is via a connector trail from the small parking area proposed on List Road, east of Rotary Park. Various trails within the park connect to the Gravity Trail. Ferndale Trail The Ferndale Trail connects Antietam Lake Park and Skyline Drive near Drenkle Field and is 2.5 miles long. The primary access point in the park is the visitor s center on Hill Road. Access and parking are also available at the Hill Road parking area and the small parking area on List Road, closest to the intersection with Hill Road. The walled portion of Antietam Creek, north of Seidel Road offers a unique setting for a trail. This section is remote and unknown to many park visitors. The lined stream corridor provides access to the Hinnershitz Dam. Parking and connection to the trail from Seidel Road should be provided. The rendering below illustrates the trail adjacent to the walled stream. Antietam Creek Trail Park trails are located outside of wetlands, as possible, with the exception of two areas proposed for environmental education where boardwalks or bridges are proposed to allow exploration of the ecosystem. There are several other areas where bridges are needed to extend trails across water courses. Antietam Lake Park Master Plan Chapter 5 3

5 Boardwalks Two areas of boardwalk are proposed in the park to explore wetlands and provide environmental education opportunities. A boardwalk crosses the wetlands west of the Angora Road Trailhead to provide an accessible loop nature trail. A small observation boardwalk is proposed along the Gravity Trail in the same general area. Boardwalk is also proposed to explore the wetlands located near the Equestrian Trailhead. The boardwalks allow public access of sensitive wetland areas with minimal disturbance of the resource and should be developed to meet accessibility requirement of the ADA. Boardwalk may be necessary in the low lying areas to bridge poor soils and cross wetlands. Environmental permits will be required to install the boardwalks. Final length, location, and configuration of the boardwalks should be field determined to minimize impact of the natural resources. Pedestrian Bridges Four pedestrian bridges are proposed to extend the trail system throughout the park. A bridge is proposed at the north end of the mud catcher to cross Bingaman s Run. This is an important link to connect the popular trail on the lake s north shore with the proposed parking along Angora Road. Three crossings of Antietam Creek are proposed, one near the gas line easement and two crossings east of Seidel Road to cross the walled creek and provide trail loops to explore the Hinnershitz Dam area. The proposed crossing at the gas line is important as it provides convenient access from the lake shore trail to the eastern side of the Antietam Creek where grades are more favorable to extend north to the Hinnershitz Dam. Trails cross municipal roadways in seven locations. Motorists should be alerted to these crossings with signs and pavement markings should be installed to identify the crossing locations. The exact location of these crossings should be defined following field measurements of sight distance. Trailheads are locations in the park that promote and support trail activities. There are three major trailheads in Antietam Lake Park: the Angora Road trailhead, the visitor center trailhead, and the equestrian trailhead on Hill Road. These locations provide parking, an information kiosk with trail map and information, and a restroom. Additionally, these locations have picnic tables and benches that provide a place for wait and gather prior to trail activities. Angora Road Trailhead Chapter 5 4 Antietam Lake Park Master Plan

6 Visitor Center The Bingaman Farm House is proposed as a visitor center for the park. The architectural evaluation of the Bingaman House found the house structurally sound with good re use potential. The central location within the park, proximity to the lake, nearby parking, and native stone construction make it an ideal place to welcome and orient visitors to the park. The home and existing clearings offer development potential to create a central park hub. The visitor center may include a small park office, environmental education exhibits and displays, and a retail component offering concessions such as packaged food and drink, bait and tackle, and other related supplies. The master plan proposes a new structure south of and uphill from the home to serve as a maintenance/ storage facility and provide restrooms for park visitors. The maintenance structure should relate to the farmhouse architectural period in design and materials, unifying the area. The master plan proposes reuse of the existing clearings below the home to accommodate an informal outdoor classroom for small gatherings and environmental education opportunities. Additional parking areas are developed nearby to serve as trailheads for the trail networks and overflow parking for the visitor center. Lake Overlook The site of the former Caretaker s House is proposed as a scenic overlook. While the architectural evaluation of the Caretaker s House found the house structurally sound, renovation and potential reuse opportunity is limited. Its isolation and surrounding topography make it a difficult place to improve for public access. While the house structure has limited value to the park, the stone wall foundation and platform nestled into the hillside and proximity to the sounds of the spillway offer great potential for a scenic overlook. It s superior location provides panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding Antietam Lake Park Master Plan Chapter 5 5

7 landscape with the historic valve house in the foreground. The primary access to the overlook is via a trail that originates at the Hill Road parking area and extends up grade to the overlook. This trail should be located to maintain accessible slopes of five percent or less. As shown in the picture above, clearing of vegetation along the road and removal of electric poles and lines will be necessary to present the best view of the lake. Lake Overlook Picnic Area The overlook area is developed to provide a resting spot to enjoy the view and picnic amenities. The stone walls of the Caretaker s House are maintained, including the door and window opening to retain the context of the former use. The plaza for the overlook incorporates the former Caretaker s House foundation wall and mimics the design of the railing of the bridge to the valve house. A small pavilion is located at the overlook to provide a sheltered resting and informal picnic area. Antietam Lake Dam and Spillway The Caretaker s House lake overlook is the best location to observe the lake s dam and spillway. From the overlook, visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the water as it travels over the spillway. The lawn area below the dam is a unique, private place, owned by the county, but public access to the area is not recommended, due to safety concerns regarding the road crossing. Picnic Areas Five picnic areas are developed in the park with various improvements. Angora Road Picnic Area A small pavilion is located south of the Angora Road trailhead parking. Access to this pavilion is via an accessible trail along Angora Road that extends from the parking area. In addition to the pavilion, picnic tables are scattered in the open area adjacent to the parking. Visitor Center Picnic Area Picnic tables are scattered in the lawn area surrounding the Visitor Center for informal use. Chapter 5 6 Antietam Lake Park Master Plan

8 Hill Road Equestrian Trailhead Picnic Area A small pavilion, composting restroom and scattered picnic tables are proposed at the equestrian trailhead on Hill Road. This trailhead will cater to the oversized trailers associated with equestrians and offer ample maneuvering room. This facility will offset the need for trailer parking at the lower parking areas near the lake. Outdoor Education Pavilion A medium pavilion is proposed, north of the visitor center between the visitor s center and the Angora Road trailhead. This structure is envisioned as a location for environmental education activities and gathering space for school groups that visit Equestrian Trailhead Picnic Area the park. Sloped lawn seating is proposed on the west side of the pavilion to serve as an informal amphitheater to view the pavilion. The pavilion will also be available for traditional picnic activities. Lake Overlook Picnic Area A picnic area and small pavilion are proposed at the Caretaker s House lake overlook. Picnic amenities shall be minimal and informal, as access to the overlook is distant from convenient parking due to topography. Picnic areas should be developed with grills and picnic tables and a portion of these must be accessible as discussed on page Mother Tree Plaza and Accessible Fishing Pier The Mother Tree area is enhanced with a small plaza and lake overlook at the tree. The image below shows the accessible walkway leading to the Mother Tree. It is anticipated that walls will be required to locate this accessible path adjacent to the northwest shoreline of the lake which connects the Angora Road trailhead and the mud catcher parking area. An accessible fishing pier is proposed for the area west of the Mother Tree. This feature will be accessible via a trail from the Angora Road trailhead and the mud catcher parking area. Antietam Lake Park Master Plan Chapter 5 7

9 Mother Tree Plaza Northwest Lake Trail and Wall Hinnershitz Settling Basin The master plan recommends removal of the Hinnershitz Settling Basin for ecological reasons. The stone walls and dam that formed the basin are deteriorated and water of Antietam Creek flows over and around the remaining stone structures. Behind the dam wall is significant sediment built up over the years as Antietam Creek s flow ponded behind the dam and sediment settled out of the stream. Removal of the remaining dam structure is recommended for several reasons which include: Chapter 5 8 Antietam Lake Park Master Plan

10 The dam is currently degraded and causing erosion. The dam restricts fish passage. The degraded dam could further deteriorate in a significant storm event, causing a breach. The sediment currently held behind the dam could be released down stream, and ultimately could reach the lake and damaging the down stream and lake ecosystems. The dam is holding water which is open to sunlight. The open water slows down and warms in the summer which is not compatible with trout and other cold water fish. Removal of the dam will proactively address the structure and stabilized the area without releasing sediment downstream to the lake. The area of the settling basin will be re vegetated with riparian buffer vegetation to stabilize the stream and naturalize the area. Below is a sketch of the dam area after removal with interpretative signage. A plan view illustrating nearby parking areas, and trail connections is provided on the next page. Hinnershitz Dam Overlook and Interpretive Area Antietam Lake Park Master Plan Chapter 5 9

11 The remains of the Hinnershitz settling basin provide a point of interest in the park and an opportunity to interpret the former structures and ecological function. The master plan proposes the removal of the dam in a manner that retains portions of the structure for interpretative purposes. The stone walls should be stabilized and re pointed. The trail network explores the area and extends to an overlook at the dam where an interpretive sign is proposed. Hinnershitz Dam Overlook and Interpretive Area Chapter 5 10 Antietam Lake Park Master Plan

12 Environmental and Historic Education Trails throughout Antietam Lake Park have been designated with points were environmental and historic interpretation opportunities exist. The park offers opportunities to explore the natural systems associated with the woodlands, wetlands, and lake, as well as the unique features associated with the past use of the site. Interpretative sign locations are suggested on the master plan and listed below. Historic Interpretation Environmental Interpretation Bingaman Farmhouse Woodlands Caretaker s House Successional Vegetation Lake, Valve House, and Spillway Streams Water Supply Fish and Aquatic Life Seven Step Dam Springs and Seeps Muck Catchers Wetlands Ferndale Trail Geology Antietam Creek Stone Wall Sediment Control Hinnershitz Settling Basin Streambank Stabilization Victory Garden Mt. Penn Gravity Railroad Ferndale Trail Miscellaneous Stone Walls and Ruins Support Facilities Restrooms Restrooms are proposed at three locations in the park; at the Angora Road trailhead, the visitor center, and the equestrian trailhead. Composting restrooms are suggested because there is no public sewer in the area and the volume of use is anticipated to be low. The restrooms at the two trailheads are stand alone buildings located convenient to the trails and information kiosks. Water is not available at these locations so sinks are not recommended. Skylights are suggested to bring natural light into the restrooms. The restrooms at the visitor center are proposed as part of the maintenance/storage building. Use of the existing well for water for the building should be explored. Each of the restrooms must accommodate persons with disabilities. Additionally, a public restroom exists at Rotary Park, a City park located on the south side of List Road. Utilities The utility needs of the park are relatively low, due in part to the lack of public services in the area. Because public water and sewer are not available within or near the park site, composting toilets are recommended and where water is needed, wells will be required. Electric service exists to the Bingaman Farmhouse and will be required for the proposed visitor center and adjacent maintenance/storage/restroom building. It is anticipated that the park will be open from 8:00 am to dusk as are other Berks County Parks, and lights for night use will not be required. No additional electrical service is proposed for the park with the exception of security lighting that may be warranted. Antietam Lake Park Master Plan Chapter 5 11

13 Entrance/Access and Parking Access to Antietam Lake Park is from various locations along the roadways that provide frontage to the park. Angora Road, Hill Road, List Road, Seidel Road, and Antietam Road all provide access to proposed parking areas. Currently, there is one formalized parking area serving the park at the bend in Angora Road at the lake and this is the location cited most often by the public when referring to the park. The master plan suggests 12 parking areas to serve the future park. The parking at the visitor center is intended to serve park visitors using the visitor center and the outdoor education pavilion. Two bus parking spaces are accommodated at the visitor center with access from the stabilized drive on the north side of the Center. Antietam Lake Park Facility Parking Analysis Typical Facility Parking Standards Parking Needs Visitor Center (3 employees + 1,140 sq. ft. public area) 1 spaces/200 sq. ft. 9 spaces Three Small Pavilions (24 seats 4 tables/ea) 1 spaces/4 seats 18 spaces One Medium Pavilion (60 seats 10 tables) 1 space/4 seats 15 spaces Picnic Area (3 areas 3 tables/area) 1 space/4 seats 14 spaces Fishing (3,400 lf. accessible lake shoreline) 1 spaces/200 lf. 17 spaces Trail Use Multi Use Trail (9 miles) Pedestrian Trail (2.75 miles) Regional Trail (1.2 miles within park) 4 spaces/mile 52 spaces Miscellaneous 10 spaces TOTAL PARKING REQUIRED 135 SPACES Visitor Center Parking Area Hill Road Trailhead Parking Area Hill Road Equestrian Trailhead Parking Area Angora Road Trailhead Main Parking Area Mud Catcher Parking Area Antietam Road/Seven Steps Parking Area Antietam Road North Parking Area Antietam Road North of Seidel Road Parking Area Seidel Road Parking Area List Road South Parking Area List Road North Parking Area Angora Road, East of List Road Intersection Parking Area 12 spaces 24 spaces 26 space 35 spaces 17 spaces 9 spaces 12 spaces 5 spaces 5 spaces 5 spaces 5 spaces 5 spaces * Rotary Park Parking Area spaces TOTAL PARKING PROVIDED 160 SPACES * Rotary Park could provide 100+/ space if cross parking agreement can be secured. Note: Parking for trail use and fishing varies widely by day, season, and weather. Parking counts above assume full capacity of each picnic pavilion. Day to day use would be less. Chapter 5 12 Antietam Lake Park Master Plan

14 The Angora Road trailhead parking area will serve anglers, hikers, and visitors that want to use the nearby picnic pavilion. From the Angora Road trailhead, visitors can walk to the Mother Tree plaza and the accessible fishing pier and hike to the lake overlook. The Angora Road trailhead offers 33 car parking spaces and two bus/trailer parking spaces. The parking areas along Angora Road at the mud catchers are proposed to provide access to the lake s trail on the northern shore, without the need to cross Angora Road. The parking areas are narrow due to slope and wetland areas. A wetland delineation is recommended in the area to identify the resource and maximize parking opportunity. The parking area at the Equestrian Trailhead is designed to serve equestrian and general trail users. Six equestrian trailer parking spaces are provided in a convenient pull through configuration. The other parking areas are developed to provide convenient access to the park trails and disperse trail users throughout the park site. All proposed parking areas shall be physically separated from the road with landscape strips. Specifically, the proposed parking areas at the mud catchers on Angora Road and the along Antietam Road must be separated to eliminate vehicles backing out onto these roads. The landscape strips shall provide a visible and physical barrier to separate the parking stalls and aisles from the road. Adequate maneuvering space within the parking area shall be provided. Paved handicap parking spaces with appropriate signage and pavement markings should be provided in each parking area. The park access drives and parking areas could be developed with bituminous or aggregate pavement. The cost estimates in Chapter 6 indicate bituminous pavement to provide a conservative approach to estimating development costs. Initially the parking areas may be developed with aggregate pavement to lower construction costs and provide a surface that infiltrates runoff and is more compatible with the natural setting. The Angora Road Trailhead parking is proposed as bituminous pavement to alleviate the muddy conditions currently experienced at the existing parking, caused by the adjacent springs and the high water table. Natural Areas Antietam Lake Park offers 643 acres of protected open space and natural area for the public enjoyment of Berks County residents. Located just outside of the City of Reading and developed areas of Lower Alsace Townships, these nearby population centers contrast with the natural setting of the park and other nearby protected lands. Antietam Lake Park combined with natural open space owned by the City of Reading and the City of Reading Water Bureau provides a natural oasis of extensive acreage. The park setting will provide a quiet setting for trail activities, enjoying nature, and environmental and historic interpretation. Wetlands The wetlands found throughout the park site should be protected and preserved. These wetlands function to provide many water quality benefits and add to the ecological diversity of the site. As described Antietam Lake Park Master Plan Chapter 5 13

15 above, public access is provided in a controlled manner to two wetland areas for environmental education purposes. Educational interpretative signs are suggested to advise visitors of the important role wetlands play in the ecosystem. Springs The natural springs and seeps found throughout the site and particularly west of the Angora Road trailhead should be protected. The design minimizes trails in this area, introduces boardwalks to cross wet areas, and creates vegetated drainage paths for surface water to reach the unnamed tributary to Antietam Lake. Woodlands Part of the aesthetic values of the park is contained within the forests that provide a backdrop for Antietam Lake. A Forest Stewardship Plan was completed for the park which inventoried the stocking, composition, relative health, and threats to the forest. From this inventory recommendations for each management unit were identified for the property. The Forest Stewardship Plan outlines the county s goals for the property which include: Provide a healthy forest system with local and broad scale variation in the overstory canopy, openings in the forest, retains large trees, and promotes a variety of forest types. Increase the richness of wildlife species (increase biodiversity). Protect water resources to include wetlands and riparian zones. Greatly reduce the threat posed by invasive species. Promote aesthetic qualities of the forest to include display of colorful foliage/fruit in autumn, attractive flowers, interesting fruit, and maximizes a variety of foliage. Define fire protection strategies. Create forest demonstration sites to introduce the public to different methods of timber management and the associated benefits. Numerous management units have been defined for the Antietam Lake Park forest resource areas which outline management strategies to achieve the goals identified. Management Unit 2, and portions of nearby Management Units are proposed as a restoration and forest management demonstration area. Pennsylvania has forest management demonstration areas across the Commonwealth to introduce and educate landowners and the general public to different methods of forest management practices and the benefits and consequences of various approaches. There are 12 forest management treatments options that could be demonstrated at the park. Refer to Appendix E for additional information about forest management treatments and demonstration sites. Proposed changes to the existing woodlands in proposed activity areas are made with considerations to the goals of the land owner to improve the park s aesthetic qualities, wildlife habitat, and overall general health of the forest system. To the extent possible, new facilities should be integrated into the natural setting with as minimal impact on natural resources as possible. Invasive Species Invasive species were observed along trails, in conifer plantings, and within abandoned fields. The Forest Stewardship Plan provides specific recommendations for invasive species control as part of the management plan. Monitoring the park for invasive species should be part of resource management. If invasive species are found, they should be removed and replaced with native material. As trails are developed care should be taken to minimize clearing and removal of large trees so that invasive species cannot get a foothold on the site in cleared areas where sunlight can reach the forest floor. Chapter 5 14 Antietam Lake Park Master Plan

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18 Fire Management As a public park (versus private property) with access by the general public year round and with several public roads bisecting the property, the land owner is assuming a generally elevated chance/risk of fire. A separate Forest Stewardship Plan was developed for Antietam Lake Park, which identified several management options that could be employed that would increase ease of access by those resources responding to a fire and/or limit the progress of a fire once it has started. The following points were made in the Forest Stewardship Plan. Firebreaks The powerline that bisects the property is an existing break that would limit the progress of a fire and supply a point of access where fire could be stopped. Vegetation in this area should be managed. This area also offers an excellent spot for early succession habitat or foodplots for wildlife. The existing trail network can also be managed not just for access but also limited firebreaks. If vegetation is managed in the immediate trail areas and easily combustible material kept to a minimum the chance of fire starting along the trail or a low intensity fire moving across the open trail would be reduced. Access The existing trail network provides excellent access for those responding to a fire. Trails should be maintained and well marked. To the extent possible, major trails should be accessible by UTV's and other motorized equipment often employed by forest fire technicians responding to fires far from regular road access. Limiting fire requirements Fire requires fuel, oxygen, and source of ignition. To the extent possible the general public should be advised of their responsibility while using the property. The signage that defines the park rules should include a note on smoking and campfires. It would also be advisable to have a sign identifying the relative fire risk from day to day. (Smokey Bear sign) Further, the Forest Stewardship Plan outlines several forest management options that can be employed that can reduce fuel loading in the forest. A land owner can reduce fire threat by relocation of existing woody debris into brush piles (thus isolating large amounts of fuel) or compressing dead woody debris so it more quickly decomposes (greatly increasing moisture content) or removing entirely the marketable material through some forest management activity. Additional Recommendations Acquisition Antietam Lake Park is made up of numerous parcels and while most are contiguous, at least in part, several are separated from the parent tract. Acquisition for infill is recommended to protect and enhance the ecological systems and integrity of the park site. The primary parcel that should be considered for acquisition is the Angora Fruit Farm property which is entirely surrounded by the major tract of the park. This 19.9 acre parcel is a working orchard under private ownership. Berks County should express their desire to purchase the parcel to the owner and consider executing an option to purchase, if agreeable with the owner. Additional parcels that in fill the property, extend and protect trails, include wildlife habitat areas, and have important natural resources, and should be considered for acquisition as well. Shared Parking/Facility Use Rotary Park is located across List Road from Antietam Lake Park. This City of Reading facility provides active recreation amenities as well as a large parking area, restrooms, and a maintenance structure. The opportunity of working in partnership with the City of Reading to provide use of these facilities to visitor s of Antietam Lake Park should be explored. Antietam Lake Park Master Plan Chapter 5 17

19 Design Considerations for Antietam Lake Park Facilities Americans with Disabilities Act ADA The US Department of Justice and the Access Board are developing new guidelines covering access to trails, picnic areas, and viewing areas. The guidelines will supplement those the Board has issued for the built environment and will address unique constraints specific to outdoor developed areas. The Accessibility Guidelines for Outdoor Developed Areas currently applies to all Federal land management agencies. These guidelines should be followed for all public projects in anticipation of the guidelines being adopted as the national standard. The following guidelines are outlined in the Accessibility Guidelines for Outdoor Developed Areas and summarized here, in part. Refer to the Access Board website for complete, up to date information, final.htm. Picnic Facilities Newly constructed picnic facilities shall provide accessible picnic units (outdoor space used for picnicking). Where picnic facilities contain two or fewer picnic units, each picnic unit shall be accessible. Where picnic facilities contain more than two picnic units, at least 20 percent but not less than two of the picnic units shall be accessible. Where picnic units are altered or added, the requirements above shall apply only to the picnic units that are altered or added until the number of accessible picnic units complies with the minimum number required for new construction. Viewing Areas Viewing area, other than viewing areas on trails, shall be accessible by providing a clear ground space (measuring 36 minimum by 48 minimum) at each distinct viewing location. The clear ground space shall be positioned for either forward or parallel approach to the viewing location. One full unobstructed side of the clear ground space shall adjoin or overlap an outdoor recreation access route or trail. An unobstructed view shall be provided between 32 inches and 51 inches above the clear ground space at each distinct viewing location that extends the entire side of the clear ground space facing the landscape or point of interest. Trails Trail shall be accessible where the trail directly connects to a trailhead or another accessible trail. Newly constructed trails shall be accessible and altered trails that change the original design, function, or purpose of the trail shall be accessible. Where a condition (listed below) does not permit full compliance with a specific requirement on a portion of a trail, that portion shall comply with the specific requirement to the maximum extend feasible. Where it is impracticable for an entire trail to comply, the trail shall not be required to comply. Conditions for exception to trail accessibility criteria: 1. Compliance is not feasible due to terrain. 2. Compliance cannot be accomplished with the prevailing construction practices. 3. Compliance would fundamentally alter the function or purpose of the facility or the setting. 4. Compliance is precluded by the: - Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C et seq.); - National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C et seq.); - National Historic Preservation Act (16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.); - Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C et seq.); or - Other Federal, State, or local law the purpose of which is to preserve threatened or endangered species; the environment; or archaeological, cultural, historical, or other significant natural features. Chapter 5 18 Antietam Lake Park Master Plan

20 Trail surface shall be firm and stable and shall have a clear tread width of 36 inches minimum and no more than 30 percent of the total length of a trail shall have a running slope steeper than 1:12. Trails in Natural Areas Trails in areas of sensitive natural resources, particularly water reservoir, should be developed to protect the resources from soil erosion. A vegetative buffer should be provided between trails and water bodies, trail surface should be stabilized with a non rutted tread, and erosion and drainage control measures implemented. Existing trails in natural areas should be analyzed to determine if the condition is compatible with the surrounding natural resources. The first step to improving trail conditions is to analyze the trail route and identify portions of trails that should be relocated to avoid sensitive natural areas. Trails should be relocated away from areas where seasonal conditions, springs, open drainage channels, and other land features negatively impact trail stability. Steep area and terrain that is easily erodable should be avoided and if trails must traverse these areas, the trail should be placed parallel to the slope, to limit erosion and create safer trail conditions. Surface drainage patterns should be assessed and concentrated drainage flows should not be directed across trails. Culverts and bridges or boardwalks should be located to carry trails over swales and small streams or wet areas. A minimum vegetative buffer of 50 feet is recommended between the earthen tread and the water s edge of water courses in the park where topography allows this separation. Where possible, the vegetative buffer should be expanded to 100 feet. Herbaceous planting of native grasses, perennials, and wetland emergent vegetation will control soil erosion and increase wildlife habitat. Shrub and tree planting should supplement ground cover planting. Trees are particularly important in areas of steep slopes to enhance soil stability. Stabilized lake shore fishing areas shall be provided. Trails accessing the waters edge shall be sensitively developed with minimal grading and respect for existing vegetation. Avoid trails which are perpendicular to slopes. The water s edge shall be stabilized with aggregate and area adjacent to the clearing shall be stabilized with native plants, to limit unwanted expansion of the landing. If existing trails become worn and rutted, the trail should be moved to a separate parallel alignment. In open areas, worn trails should be improved with topsoil and seeded to establish a stabilized surface. In wooded areas, worn trails should be filled with native soil, compacted for stability, and mulched with natural material found onsite to encourage reforestation. If drainage is causing severe rutting and relocating the tread or installing diversion swales is not a feasible option, improvements such as stabilized matting, water bars, and turnpikes should be introduced. Natural Resources Riparian Buffers Critical to healthy streams and lakes are riparian buffer corridors, the vegetated land contiguous to the stream and river banks which protect the watercourse and promote water quality. Riparian corridors provide ecological benefits which include: Stabilize Stream Banks Deep rooted vegetation binds the soil along stream banks, stabilizing the banks and preventing erosion during periods of high runoff. Improve Water Quality Vegetation along streams traps and treats sediment, nutrients, and pollutants before they enter the stream or groundwater. Enhance Wildlife Habitats Trees, shrubs, and grasses along streams provide habitat, shelter, and travel corridors for many aquatic and land species. Antietam Lake Park Master Plan Chapter 5 19

21 Reduce Flooding and Sedimentation Vegetation retains stormwater runoff longer, improves infiltration, and filters sediment from flowing downstream during floods. Keep Streams Cooler and Healthier Shade from riparian buffers cools the stream waters, increasing the food, oxygen, and habitat for aquatic life. Enhance Scenery Vegetation along streams adds beauty and diversity to the landscape. Antietam Lake and along Antietam Creek, Bingaman s Run, and the unnamed tributary to Antietam Lake should be enhanced with riparian buffer plantings. In addition to the benefits listed above, studies show that riparian buffers have a positive impact on property values. 1 Anglers as well, know the value of shaded streams which provides quality fishing habitat. Streams with forested riparian buffers are as much as 10 degrees cooler that streams through meadows which, is an important habitat consideration for native brook trout which require water temperatures below 68 degrees to survive. 2 Riparian buffer planning is recommended at the Angora Road trailhead surrounding the stream and spring flow. Riparian buffer planting is proposed at the Hinnershitz dam when the dam is removed to stabilize the edges of Antietam Creek. Landscaping Minimal landscaping is needed at the park due to the natural setting and extensive forest cover. In developed areas landscaping should be introduced to solve problems and enhance the visual image and function of the area. Landscaping should be located and maintained to buffer adjacent uses, transition from high use areas to natural areas, and to aesthetically enhance the park settings. Planting is suggested in parking areas to minimize the heat island effect of pavement and to separate the parking area from the adjacent roadways. Landscaping should be used as a strategy to minimize maintenance. Elements such as signs should be placed within landscaped areas to minimize hand mowing. Mow lines should be established which reduce hand mowing and trimming, especially outside of activity areas. Entrances to the main activity areas should be attractively landscaped with a signature design that designates the area as the entrance to a park facility. Consider low maintenance plantings for these areas that include native flowering shrubs and perennials to add color to the park. Where planting is introduced into the park, native plant material should be used. Plant material native to Berks County is adapted to the geographic location and, as a result, will require less maintenance, withstand the extremes in climate change, be less susceptible to disease and pests, and propagate naturally. Native plant material will provide needed habitat and food for small mammals and birds. The introduction of native plants and enhancement of native plant areas will help reduce the opportunity for exotic species to establish a foothold on the site. Support Facilities Site Furnishings The developed areas of the park should be convenient for users and create a welcoming environment. Picnic tables should be provided at pavilions, in designated picnic area, and informally in clearings near activity areas. Benches should be provided at gathering places, trailheads, and periodically along accessible trails. Furnishings should consider the needs of seniors and persons with disabilities and includes picnic tables that accommodate wheel chairs and benches in shaded locations. Trash receptacles are not recommended in lieu of a carry in carry out policy. 1 Schuler, T.R., Site Planning for Urban Steam Protection. Center for Watershed Protection, Ellicott City, MD Montgomery County Planning Commission, Benefits of Riparian Corridor Conservation, Montgomery County, PA. Chapter 5 20 Antietam Lake Park Master Plan

22 Parking Parking areas should be developed to provide stabilized parking areas. Proposed parking in the wooded areas shall be field located to take advantage of existing clearings and minimize vegetation loss. Either aggregate parking or bituminous parking surface could be used. Bituminous pavement is suggested for the Angora Road Trailhead due to the wet conditions of the location. Handicap parking spaces must be provided in each parking area and these spaces must be paved and have pavement markings and signs to designate them as accessible parking spaces. These accessible parking spaces should be closest to the facility or activity area and connected to the facility or activity area with an accessible trail. Park Architecture Implementing the recommendations of the master plan will require development of one building, the maintenance/storage/restroom building, several pavilions, and two composting restrooms. Park structures with similar architectural style can be a unifying factor of the park system. The structures proposed for Antietam Lake Park should relate to the historic context of the park site. The maintenance/storage/restroom building is located adjacent to the Bingaman Farmhouse and the architecture design for the structure should take its clues from the existing structure. A small barn or traditional outbuilding images is suggested for this structure. The pavilions and composting restrooms should include elements such as the materials, proportions and massing, roof lines, and colors, which are similar to the farmhouse. In addition to unifying the park as county facilities, if pavilions, restrooms, and other buildings are developed with similar design and materials, repairs and upgrades are more standardized. In addition to relating to the farmhouse, an architectural style that has natural qualities and is compatible with the settings of the parks is suggested. Consider using native stone and natural colors. Pavilions could be pre engineered and chosen from one of many pavilion manufacturers or specifically designed for the park. All structures must comply with various local, state, and federal codes and guidelines, including the American s with Disabilities Act (ADA). Park architecture guidelines noted below are recommendations to guide the development of park structures. Park Architecture Guidelines Unifying Design Buildings throughout the park should be similar in design and detail, while responding to local and historic context, function, and site characteristics. Building materials should be incorporated in other park elements, i.e. stone used for site walls or sign bases. Building Style The historic or vernacular style of existing buildings and structures should be observed and highlighted in new building design. Building materials and an earth tone color pallet that blends with the surrounding landscape should be used. Complement the Park Setting The buildings should relate to the topography and character of the setting, becoming an integral part of the park site and not forced upon the landscape. Human Scale The buildings should be human scale with wide roof overhangs to provide protection from the elements. Vandal Resistant Interior and exterior materials should be vandal resistant. Restrooms should have vandal resistant fixtures, pavilion trusses should be closed to the public, and security lighting should be installed, exterior outlets should have locking covers. Expandable The park structures should be built with expansion opportunities preserved as future needs arise. ADA Compliance Public buildings must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. Green Design Green materials and energy savings strategies should be incorporated into building designs. Consider developing LEED certified buildings. Antietam Lake Park Master Plan Chapter 5 21

23 Although the one building proposed for the park is relatively small and utilitarian, Berks County should consider the merits of developing the maintenance/storage/restroom as a LEED certified structure to promote green sustainable development. LEED is an internationally recognized green building certification system, providing third party verification that a building was designed and built using strategies aimed at improving performance in energy savings, water efficiency, CO 2 emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, and stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts. LEED was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council to provide building owners and operators a concise framework for identifying and implementing practical and measurable green building design, construction, operation, and maintenance solutions. Signage System Considerations A comprehensive signage system is important to guide visitors to the park and inform and direct visitors once they are at the park site. Effective signage will direct visitors to park trails and facilities and provide information for the safe enjoyment of the park. A comprehensive signage system should include a park entrance sign, park rules and information sign, direction signs, and interpretative signs. The table below offers general guidelines for park signs and their location. Antietam Lake Park is part of the Schuylkill River National & State Heritage Area (SRHA) which has developed a Sign Design Guideline Manual to create a consistent message and image for the land and water trails and interpretative and wayfinding signs in the SRHA. The SRHA signage system strives to allow design flexibility for partners developing signage for their specific site. The signs suggested for Antietam Lake Park incorporate the SRHA official logo but are designed specifically for this new Berks County park facility. The Berks County Conservancy has developed interpretative signs for the Gravity Trail which traverses Antietam Lake Park. Interpretative signs along this trail should be coordinated with the Conservancy. Park Signage System Guidelines Sign Type Sign Purpose Sign Locations Park Entrance Signs Identify park and park entrances. Each public entrance to the park. Information Kiosks Directional Signs Trail Signs Mile Markers Interpretative Signs Traffic Signs Provide information about the park such as park policies, park and trail maps, special events and program calendar, etc. Identify direction and distance to points of interest. Identify trails of the park, provide length of trail. Identify location on a trail (mile indication visible from both sides of the marker). Provide environmental education, historic, cultural, and general interest information about the park site, its resources, or surrounding area. Traffic control and warn motorists of park activity areas. At activity area hubs and major trailheads. At trailheads and activity area hubs. At trailheads and all trail intersections to guide users and identify cross trails. At one quarter mile intervals along trails. At points of interest in the park and along the trails. Along the entrance drives and vehicular ways within the parks. Safety Signs Warn visitors of safety issues. Strategically located as necessary. Chapter 5 22 Antietam Lake Park Master Plan

24 The signs illustrated below show conceptual ideas for signs that may be implemented for Antietam Lake Park. Park Entrance Sign The conceptual design for the park entrance sign incorporates the Berks County Parks & Recreation Department logo and name, the park name, and the Schuylkill River National & State Heritage Area logo. The base of the sign is suggested as stone in a distinctive design to relate to the stone used throughout the site and the seven step dam. Park Information Signs Park rules, maps, and other information can be posted on information signs or on a kiosk. The two images below provide an example of a two sided park information sign. Park Direction Signs Signs are required to direct visitors to the park and then to the various recreation facilities once they are in the park. Examples of park direction signs are shown to the right. Cooperation with the businesses and other destinations on the mountain should be explored to incorporate directions to restaurants and local businesses. Partnering with other land and business owners can help offset the initial cost of the signs, unify the mountain top, and reduce the amount of signs peppering the landscape. Antietam Lake Park Master Plan Chapter 5 23

25 Trail Signs Trail signs will be required to identify trails and trail distances. Accessible trail and trails in activity areas should be identified with trail signs. Remote and long distance trails could be identified with blazes on trees or trail signs. A typical design using a 6 x 6 wood bollard for a trail sign is shown to the right. Trail information should be located on both sides of the sign to be visible from both approach directions from the trail. Trail signs for regional trails should be coordinated with the Berks County Conservancy. Interpretative Signs Interpretative signs are suggested to provide information on the history of the park site, the park setting, and natural and historic/cultural resources. Interpretative signs should include illustrative graphics, photos, and descriptive text. The design developed by the Berks County Conservancy for the sign panel is suggested as a standard motif. A stone base is suggested for the sign structure to unify the sign with other elements in the park. An example of an interpretative sign is illustrated to the right. Park Sign Development Guidelines Vandal Resistant Weather Resistant Meet PennDOT Regulations Promote Consistent Image Graphics Positive Message Sign Illumination Utilize materials such as phenolic resin panels (no frame required) or fiberglass embedded panels (frame required) which resist abrasions, graffiti, solvents, etc. Utilize materials that will not fade or otherwise degrade from sunlight, moisture, or the freeze/thaw cycle. Along PennDOT roadways use standard signs. Develop a family of graphics (logo, font, colors, etc.) that will be used on signs throughout the park to unify the park. Coordinate with regional sign initiatives. Work with professional graphic artists to create a layout template for each sign type. Utilize maps, graphic illustrations and photographs, and text to communicate the intended message. Research indicates that positive messages are far more effective in reducing depreciative activities (littering) than negatively worded messages. 3 Park identification signs located at the main entrances should be illuminated, where practical, so they are visible at night, fostering awareness of the park. Stormwater Management Stormwater facilities will be required to accommodate the stormwater runoff generated from improvements and facilities introduced into the park. Stormwater collection and conveyance facilities should be designed to comply with the Stormwater Management Code of the municipality or county. Stormwater management facilities, such as detention and retention facilities, to reduce peak flows are not accommodated on the park master plan at this time. Further study to determine 3 Recreation Research Update, Pacific Southwest Research Station Wildland Recreation and Urban Cultures, October 1999 No. 31 (USDA Forest Service). Chapter 5 24 Antietam Lake Park Master Plan