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AREAS SFE PLANS JQ@ @@sw POP er RON GV 191.42 C47 1982 R E Cc CHRISTINA RIVER RECREATION AREAS S I TE PLANS PREPARED BY: WILLIAM J. COHEN AND ASSOCIATES, INC. PREPARED FOR: DELAWARE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND EwIRONMENTAL CONTROL This document was prepared for the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and was financed in part through a Coastal Zone Management Frogram Development Grant from the Office of Coastal Zone Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, under provisions of Section 306 of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (Public Law 94-583), as amended. AO(,NOWLDffiYMS We wish to acknowledge the following for their assistance-in the completion of this project. David S. Hugg, III, Executive Assistant to the Secretary of the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, has provided a positive overall framework for us to undertake this effort. William J. Hopkins, Manager, Technical Services Section, Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, has provided many useful comments. In preparing this document, the Consultant staff was greatly assisted by William R. Jones, P.E., Kidde Consultants, who provided preliminary engineering analysis and cost estimates. Staff members of William J. Cohen and Associates, Inc., who participated in this study included William J. Cohen, AICP, site planning; Frank R. Selby, research and suitability analysis; Andrew D. Zimmerman, cartography and design; Laura K. Newmarker, manuscript preparation; and Nancy Dean, visual analysis. WILLIAM J. COHEN AND ASSOCIATES, INC. PLANNING, GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS, RESEARCH, DESIGN 177 E. DELAWARE AVENUE, NEWARK, DELAWARE 19711 (302) 4534=1 November 1, 1982 Mr. David S. Hugg, III Executive Assistant to the Secretary Office of the Secretary Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Tatnall Building P.O. Box 1401 Dover, DE 19901 Dear Mr. Hugg: This document is submitted with pleasure to the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, as part of the implementation effort to provide greater opportunities for recreational activities on the Christina River in New Castle County, Delaware. We are hopeful that the site plans and related analysis will encourage greater public use of this important urban river resource. SincQrely yours, William J ohen, AICP lkn Enclosures TABLE OF CONTENTS Paqe LIST OF TABLES LIST OF FIGURES CHAPTER 1. RECREATION POTENTIAL: A SLKWY PERSPECTIVE I INTRODUCTION 2 Recreational Potential of the Christina River: 2 Summary of Findings 10 Site Planning Analyses RECREATION SITE SUITABILITY FACTORS 12 CHAPTER 2. NEWPORT FISHING AND SMALL BOAT ACCESS AREA 13 RECREATION SITE SUITABILITY ANALYSIS 14 Soils 14 Flood Hazard Analysis 15 River Characteristics 15 Street System 16 Utilities 17 Visual Analysis 17 NEWPORT FISHING AND SMALL BOAT ACCESS AREA PLAN 21 Locational Importance 21 Proposed Activities 21 Planned Improvements 21 Phase I. Site Improvements and Fishing Area 22 Phase II. Continuation of Site Improvements and Small Boat Access 22 Implementation Costs 23 P a_qe CHAPTER 3. PARK DRIVE RECREATION AREA 26 RECREATION SITE SUITABILITY ANALYsis 27 Soils 27 Flood Hazard Analysis 29 Street System 30 Utilities 30 Visual Analysis 31 Mason-Dixon Trail 34 RECREATION SITE PLAN 35 Locational Importance 35 Proposed Activities 35 Planned Improvements and Implementation 35 LIST OF FIGURES Following Page FIGURE 1. CHRISTINA RIVER 2 FIGURE 2. NEWPORT SITE LOCATIONIMAP 11 FIGURE 3. PARK DRIVE SITE LOCATION MAP 11 FIGURE 4. NEWPORT FISHING AND BOAT ACCESS AREA PHASE I SITE PLAN 22 FIGURE 5. NEWPORT FISHING AND BOAT ACCESS AREA PHASE II SITE PLAN 22 FIGURE 6. NEWPORT SITE IMPROVEMENT SCHEMATIC 22 FIGURE 7. ExISTING SOILS PARK DRIVE SITE 28 FIGURE 8. PARK DRIVE SITE PLAN 35 FIGURE 9. PARK DRIVE SITE PUBLIC ROAD ACCESS DETAIL 36 LIST OF TABLES PAGE TABLE 1. EXISTING PARK AND RECREATION AREAS 4 TABLE 2. RECREATIONAL USE POTENTIAL By ACTIVITY AREA 8 TABLE 3. ELSINBORo-DELANCO-URBAN LAND COMPLEX SOIL CONDITIONS 14 TABLE 4. RECREATIONAL DEVELOPMENT LIMITATIONS FOR SOIL GROUPS, 29 PARK DRIVE SITE 0 CHAPTER 1 RECREATION POTENTIAL: A SUMMARY PERSPECTIVE -1- INTRODUCTION In March, 1981, in response to 6 growing interest concerning the unfulfilled potential of the Christina River as a recreation -resource in New Castle County, a study was commissioned by the State of Delaware through the Coastal Management Program to undertake an evaluation of the Christina River and address the following tasks: 1. Identify publicly-owned property and access points along the River. 2. Analyze existing data regarding River characteristics. 3. Review land use and recreation plans as they relate to recreational development on the River. 4. Identify potential recreation uses and sites on both sides of the River. 5. Make recommendations for potential recreation area designations on the Christina. This study was completed and presented to the State in July of 1981. The major findings are summarized in the following section. REcREATiow PoTENTiAL oF THE CHRisTINA RivEgs Sumwy oF FiNpiws As depicted on Figure 1, the Christina River flows over a 30.3 mile course in New Castle County, from the Maryland state line to the confluence with the Delaware River. The densest areas of development contiguous to the Christina River occur within the City of Newark, the Village of Christiana, the Town of Newport, and the City of Wilmington. -2- F.IGU.REll THE CHRISTINA RIVER WILMINGTON NEW CASTLE COUNTY 141 DELAWARE 95 ISLAND 2 95 4 soll DREAD AND CHEESE ISLAND 295 SCALE IN FEET 273 41 0 2000 4000 ow 8000 10000 NFE R K 273 LEGEND 2 4 7 95 1y 13 40 PREPARED SY WILLIAM J. COKEN ASSOCIATaIll. IMC, Parcels of land on the Christina River shoreline which are in public ownershi p (i.e., owned by the Federal Government, State Government, New Castle County Government, or by a municipality) comprise 17.8 percent of all parcels of land along the Christina shoreline and also 17.8 percent of the acreage of all shoreline parcels. Most of the publicly-owned parcels (79.6 percent) are owned by the State of Delaware and three municipalities--the City of Newark, the City of Wilmington, and the Town of Newport. There are currently five park and r2creation areas along the Christina River; two in Wilmington, two in Newark, and one near Christian@. The list of public park facilities on the Christina and their facilities are shown in Table 1. -3- Table 1 EXISTING PAM< AND RECREATION AREAS New Castle County, Wilmington, and Newark Park Ownership Acreage Current Facilities and Activities East 7th Street City of Wilmington 6.80 undeveloped--contains a Park parking area only; boat launch into Brandywine Creek Christina Park City of Wilmington 11.19 softball field, comfort station (closed), drinking fountain (inoperative), pavillion, other improve- ments planned (including parking) Coventry Ridge/ New Castle County 164.77 1 softball field Lewden Green Park I little league field 2 tennis courts 2 basketball courts playground equipment area swimming pool bath house -parking for 30 cars Rittenhouse City of Newark 52.55 hiking and nature trails, Park picnic tables, shelter, and parking -4- Table I continued Park Ownership Acreage Current Facilities and Activities Stream Valley City of Newark 39.59 Undeveloped--left in Open Space natural state Sources: New Castle County Department of Parks and Recreation Newark Department of Parks and Recreation . Wilmington Department of Parks and Recreation -5- A range of plans and studies relating to the.Christina River have indicated that there is an unmet demand for recreation facilities in New Castle County, and that there are sites along the Christina River that would be attract ive for recreational development. Most of the studies identify sites in Wilmington, particularly between Market Street and the confluen ce with the Delaware River. The City of Newark Comprehensive Development Plan recommends the development of parkland in the southeast portions of the City, in the vicinity of Arbour Park. Water quality analysis of the Christina River indicates that overall quality has been improving since 1972, although portions of the R iver, primarily the tidal portion (between Smalley's Dam and the mouth) are subject to intermittently high levels of fecal coliform bacteria and point source pollutants. The overall assessment of use potential of the Christina indicates that swimming is not feasible, given current water quality conditions. However, fishing, sailing, canoeing, and small craft boating may be undertaken with no restrictions due to water quality. In view of the preceding summary, it was concluded that there is a need for additional land and water-based recreation facilities along the Christina River. Public access, land ownership, and use suitability factors define the areas of potential recreational use. Public access to the Christina shoreline is fairly limited. Although there are 24 direct roadway crossings and two more planned, few of these crossings are at grade and none of them offer ramps or paths to the River. Pedestrian access is available via the street systems contiguous to the River in Wilmington, Newport, and Newark; and on private lands, notably the subdivisions which line the river from Newport to Newark. Therefore, one imperat .ive site selection factor was to choose a site (or sites) where existing access could be employed o r where a new access point could be created. -6- Land ownership was also a major consideration. It was agreed in advance to restrict recommendations for new recreation sites to sites already under public ownership. In so doing, the need for land acquisition by the State would be eliminated. However, much of the 17.8 percent of the Christina shoreline land which is in the public domain is either reserved for roadway access and maintenance facilities, or is otherwise inappropriate for recreational development. In the final analysis, very few sites fulfilled these requirements. To analyze site suitability for land-based recreational uses, the county- wide computerized land use information network known as AERI (Automated Environmental Resource Information System) was utilized. The AERI system was programmed to incorporate data on land use, vegetation and soils limitations to determine whether land areas are suitable, conditionally suitable, or unsuitable for various activities. These suitability levels were mapped for the entire Christina River shoreline area for a variety of land-based recreational activities. Not surprisingly, the data evaluation indicated that the Christina shoreline areas which are most suitable for land-based recreation are primarily the undeveloped area between Newport and Newark and between Newark and the Maryland State line. The Christina'River has been divided into four distinct activity segments. In Table 2, the activity segments are presented according to their potential to support each land-based and river-based activity. -7- Table 2 RECREATIONAL USE POTENTIAL BY ACTIVITY AREA Christina River Land Based River Based Nature Small Activity Area Hiking Observation Picnicking Biking Athletics Camping Canoeing Sailing Craft Swimming Fishing Boating Mouth to Newport 0 0 0 0 0 0 HP HP HP 0 HP co 'Newport to Smalley's Dam HP HP HP HP 0 P HP 0 P 0 P Smalley's Dam to 1-95 HP HP HP HP P HP 0 0 0 0 P 1-95 to Stateline P P P HP HP P 0 0 0 HP HP highest potential P potential 0 no potential Source: William J. Cohen and Associates, Inc. As shown in Table 2, the highest potential for land-based activities occurs between Newport and the State line. On the other hand, river-based activities have the greatest potential from Newport to the mouth, except for fishing, which may be enjoyed at nearly any location on the Christina, and swimming, which is not feasible in the main stem of the Christina River due to seasonal water quality problems. The reasons for attributing the highest potential for other water-based activities to this particular segment relate to fa ctors such as river width and depth, tidal influence, and navigational obstructions. These factors are examined in greater detail in a subsequent section, River Characteristics. In view of the findings concerning site suitability, land ownership, and public access, four sites were recommended as locations for potential recreational development. A further review of the four sites found that two had the greater potential for immediate implementation as recreational areas. A listing and description of these two sites follows: 1. Newport Site. A 0.5-acre state-owned parcel on the north shoreline of the Christina under the Route 41 Expressway, with public access from Water Street; recommended as an access area for canoes and small boats and fishing. 2. Park Drive Site. A 31.3-acre site south of the proposed Newark Connector roadway (which Will connect Elkton Road and South College Avenue) that will become excess State land from the roadway acquisition, on the northern and southern shoreline of the Christina, with access onto existing Park Drive, which will be terminated south of the new connector; suitable for hiking, picnicking, athletics, camping, and fishing. -9- SITE PLANNING ANALYSES One of the prominent recommendations of the first report was that the State should undertake site planning and design analysis for each of the selected sites to implement recreation facilities and public access improvements as required to enable these sites to fulfill the recreational potential that they represent. After further review and consultation with the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), the current project as represented by this report was commissioned in December of 1981. The decision capitalizesupon certain inherent advantages of the Newport and Park Drive Sites which make them immediately attractive for recreation development. AT NEwPoRT * The area beneath the Route 41 Viaduct (including the Newport Site) has been a target for development efforts by New Castle County. * The Christina River shoreline at Newport is already a popular fishing site. * The location of the Newport Site is shown in Figure 2. AT PARK DgivE * The Park Drive Site is contiguous to Rittenhouse Park which could create a total park area of approximately 84 acres. * The plans for the Newark Connector roadway (currently under construction) includes a bikeway outside of the shoulder on the eastbound lane'. This bikeway could be adapted in such a way as to permit access to the Park Drive Site. -10- The location of the Park Drive Site is shown in Figure 3. This study represents the fulfillment of objectives and hopefully will facilitate new recreation sites for the enjoyment of northern Delawareans. FIGURE 2 NEWPORT SITE LOCATION MAP E. 1. DuPONT do NEMOURS a CO. SCALE: 1" 20' JAMES STREET ROAD 13ASIN OLD DELMARVA POWER a LIGHT CO. Ld E. 1. DuPONT do NEMOURS a CO. w CHRISTINA w NEWPORT RIVER :9 (RAMP) ROUTE 141 SOUTH ROUTE 141 NORTH ---- ---- -1 ------------------- _IRAIWPI SITE E. 1. DuPONT PREPARED__ BY WILLIAM i COHEN 8 ASSOCIATES, INC. do NEMOURS a CO. BASE MAP SOURCE: DELAWARE DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION FIGURE 3 PARK DRIVE SITE LOCATION MAP CHRYSLER JVt WA CORPORATION . ......... ............... ... ............ .......... . .... . . . ........ CONNECTOR -R .................. . . . . ......... . ..... ..... . . .. . . . . .. . .. . . . . .......... ............ ................ ................... .. .................. . .. ..... .......... ARBOUR ...... ............. ee NIX ........... ............ ........... . . . ....... PARK ....... .................................. .................... PREPARED BY WILLIAA J. COHEN b ASSOCIATES, INC. RECREATION SITE SUITABILITY FACTORS For each of the two sites, a series of factors were analyzed in order to determine site suitability for recreational use. Specifically, the factors addressed were: 1. soils, principally regarding limitations to development inherent in specific soils types 2. flood hazard analysis. 3. river characteristics, including river depth, tidal influence, and water quality as they would affect river-based recreation. (These factors were analyzed for the Newport Site only, since, the Park Drive Site has been designated for land-based recreation). 4. street system, to assess public access availability 5. existing utilities, to determine whether any new connections are necessary, of if any proposed utility improvements may impinge upon recreational use of the site 6. visual analysis 7. Mason-Dixon Trail, at the Park Drive Site only -12- 0 CHAPTER 2 NEWPORT FISHING AND SMALL BOAT ACCESS AREA RECREATION SITE SUITABILITY ANALYSIS SOILS The Newport Site is characterized by only one major soil type, Elsinboro- Delanco-Urban Land Complex (EuB). This soil gioup consists of gently sloping Elsinboro and Delanco soils (0 - 8 percent slope), that have been used for residential or other community purposes. Two-thirds of the complex is represented bywell-drained Elsinboro soils, and the remaining third consists of Delanco soils which are only moderately well-drained; impeded drainage and seasonal wetness limit their use. Much of the EuB soil complex has been disturbed by development. The bre2kdown of the condition of the EuB soil complex is shown in Table 3. Table 3 ELSINBORO-DELANCO-URBAN LAND COMPLEX SOIL CONDITIONS 40 percent of the total acreage undisturbed 41 percent of the total acreage consists of land from which two-thirds, of the original soil has been removed or covered with up to 18 inches of silty fill material 20 percent of the total acreage is covered with more than 18 inches of fill or soil profile has been almost entirely cut away Source: Soil Survey--New Castle County, Delaware. (U. S. Department of Agriculture). The Soil Conservation Service,of the U. S. Department of Agriculture classifies soil limiations for development as slight, m oderate, or severe. -14- For parking the EuB soil group is shown to have moderate limiations due to slope and moderately high water table in Delan co soils. FLoop HAzARD Am ANAL-Ys I s The U. S. Army Corps of Engineers Flood Plain Information Study for the Christina River indicates that the Newport Site is situated within the intermediate regional flood district (100-year flood district). Therefore, no permanent buildings should be proposed for development at the Newport Site. RiyF_R CHARAcTERisTics The principal river characteristics affecting river-based recreation at the Newport Site are: water quality, tidal influence, mean low water depth, and river width. As noted previously, the Newport Site has been recommended as a site for a launch ramp to accommodate the following activities: small craft boating, canoeing and kayaking, sailing, and fishing. The water quality levels required to support these activities are less stringent that would be required to permit swimming. Swimming is not advisable at the Newport Site, or at any other location on the Christina River, due to seasonal water quality problems. During the swimming season months, levels of feC21 coliform bacteria found in water quality samples taken from the Christina River at Newport in 19BO were substantially in excess of recommended levels. Coliform levels have been a perennial problem in the Christina River, and even though there has been improvement@- swimming is not feasible at this time. Turbidity has also been a water quality problem at this location. Measurements of level of turbidity have been consistently high, occasionally exceeding the State standards. This The Elsinboro-Delanco-Urban Land Complex is a soil type in which the soil mixture is inseparable due to urban land development including soil removal, cuts and covering with fill material. Therefore, the characteristics of the group may vary from site to site. (Source: Soil Survey Interpretations for Delaware, U. S. Department of Agriculture, 1968). -15- is a further impedime nt to swimming from an aesthetic and safety standpoint. Fishing is not restricted by existing water quality levels. Studies.of the fish population of the Christina have yielded samples in the Newport vicinity including blueback herring and other species. Caution should be exercised in fishing, however, since ammonia ni trogen levels were in the unac ceptable range at Newport during the summer sampling period in 1980. The water quality levels necessary to permit boating are, naturally, the least stringent of any of the river-based activities. The water quality level at Newport and the upper Christina is generally acceptable for boating, although periodic turbidity problems may detract from the appeal of the Christina as a boating locale. The tidal influence of the Christina extends from the mouth to Smalley's Pond Dam, thereby including the Newport Site. The Newport area, then, would be conducive to good sailing, motorboating, and because the tidal influence is less severe at Newport than at the mouth, it would be especially conducive to canoeing, kayaking, and other small non-motorized boats. In addition, flat bottom boats can navigate upstream at least to Christiana at all but the lowest tide. The mean low tide depth of the Christina River at Newport is eight feet, according to the U. S. Coast and Geodetic Survey topographic map. The depth increases to 25 feet at the mouth and decreases to two feet near White Clay Creek and less thereafter. The river is approximately 225 feet wide at Newport. Therefore, the river is capable of supporting all types of small pleasure craft for access at the Newport Site. STREET SYSM Direct access to the Newport Site is provided on Water Street, a local street which parallels the Newport waterfront. Access to the site from the major roadway system of New Castle County is very convenient. The Newport -16- exit from the recently constructed Route 141 Expressway is only two blocks from the site, via James and Water Streets. The Route 141 Expressway se rves through traffic from New Castle and the Kirkwood Highway (Route 2) and it connects with Interstate 95 (the Delaware Turnpike) only two miles from the Newport exit. In addition, Route 4 (Market and Justice Streets, the main throughfares in the Town of Newport) serves through traffic from nearby communities such as Stanton, Ogletown, and southwest Wilmington. UTILITIES The availability of utility infrastructure at the Newport Site has been investigated in anticipation of any facilities which may be installed in conjunction with the recreational uses of the site, which would require electricity, water, or connection to a sanitary sewer system. It can be assumed that any such uses would make minimal demands upon the infrastructure systems. At the Newport Site, all three utilities are available. The Town of Newport provides water and sewer services, water and sewer service mains are located adjacent to the site beneath Water Street. Electrical service, supplied by DelmarV2 Power and Light, is available to the site. An underground power line lies contiguous to the northeast corner of the site. In conclusion, the existing infrastructure is capable of supporting any utility needs which may eventuate. VisuAL ANAL-Ysis A visual analysis of the Newport Site revealed that there is a major urban influence on the site as well as its surrounding area. The Route 141 viaduct is located directly over the site shading approximately three-fourths of its area, as shown in photograp hs 1, 2, and 3. Six large cem ent substructure columns loom upwards supporting the viaduct. Their placement on the site divides -17- the parcel into two potential activity areas: Between Water Street and the columns (see Photograph 1) and between the columns and the river (see photograph 3). Water Street defines the northern perimeter of the site. The'view beyond is of six or more columns and a cyclone fence that closes off the area under the viaduct for use as a parking lot. The Conrail Railroad Line is beyond, running parallel to Water Street, followed by a strip of commerc ial land use. East of the site is a plot of land improved with a small vacant residential structure owned by the Du Pont Company, as shown in photograph 2. Beyond are residential and commercial land uses. The western perimeter of the site is paralleled by a thin strip of land owned by Delmarva Power and Light Company. Located on the property are the remains of a deteriorating cement launch ramp and a utility pole. The parcel of landis bounded by James Street which parallels Route 141. The Du Pont Company's Newport Pigment Plant is the dominant visual feature west of James Street, as shown in photograph 3. On the southern perimeter"of the site is the Christina River, as shown in photograph 1. It is the most important visual amenity to be noted. The value of the River is lessened in this location by the presence of the Route 141 viaduct's substructure rising out of the water. The view beyond is of marsh- lands and a far distant tree line. Visually it is an attractive natural open space, although the view is partially obstructed by the viaduct. The topography of the site slopes gradually downward from Water-Street to the steeper River banks and is visually affected by severe tidal fluctuations. At present, the bank is littered with rotting wood and other debris. A cement storm sewer drainage swale exists along the eastern boundary of the site that transports storm water emerging from pipes under Water Street and flows into the Christina River. A build-up of sedimentation oc curring below the VISUAL HIGFLIGHTS NEWPORT SITE Photograph I Photograph 2 Photograph 3 -19- outfall of this swale has created a beach in the River that is only observable at extreme low tide. Large rocks, rotting wood, and broken pieces of cement are strewn around the vicinity of the outfall. Soil is exposed over most of the site punctuated by gullies where erosion is occurring due to a lack of protective ground cover. A minimum of vegetation cover is found along the periphery of the site where more sunlight reaches the ground. Existing vegetation consists of assorted weeds, a few saplings, and one medium-aged tree; otherwise, the site is lacking significant natural features or amenities. The visual analysis of the Newport Site and its surroundings reveal positive and negative features. The views from the site are obstructed on all four perimeters by development, with the exception of the Christina River and the marshlands beyond the viaduct. The site is devoid of attractive natural amenities as a result of the viaduct overhead. There is a lack of upkeep on the site resulting in accumulations of litter and soil erosion. -20- NEWPORT FISHING AND SIVU BOAT ACCESS AREA PLAN Lowma ImPoRTANcE The Newport Site,as discussed earlier in the plan report, is currently an underutilized parcel of land on the Christina directly beneath the 141 viaduct. In effect, this excess land would provide for the only recreational facility on the River in the Town of Newport. Town residents as well as the general public would, therefore, have a new area to enjoy recreational opportunities. Pgoposm AcTiviTiEs It is recognized that the site has limited use potential--since it is only half-an-acre in size and located beneath a major roadway. The site has been identified in the previous study, The Recreational Potential of the Christina River (1981) as an access area for canoes and small boats. Moreover, fishing which can and does occur at almost any point on the River, has been observed to be a popular pastime in this vicinity. PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS By combining these two activities--boat launching and fishing, improvements are proposed for the Newport Site that can be divided into two phases. Since the bank is heavily eroded due to water runoff and the severe fluctuations in tidal activity,it will be necessary to enter into a bank stabilization program if the site is to be usable. Due to this necessity and considering the extent of the stabilization needed (the entire river frontage of the site) it is more advantageous to first provide for the fishing area which can be combined with the bank stabilization (as shown in Figure 4), followed by the small boat access area and additional improvements (as shown in Figure 5). The planned improvements, therefore, can be described as follows: -21- PHASE I. SITE IMPROVEMENTS AND FISHING AREA This area can be described as including several elements: Site Improvements involving driveway access; grading of the site; preparation of the parking area with paving; striping the parking stalls; provision of a berm along the drainage swale and landscaped as a safety barrier; handicapped access from the parking area to a wooden fishing pier; railroad ties to delineate vehicle parking; finished grading and top soil of area other than parking. Fishing Area including bank stabilization with g2bion terrace for fishing from shoreline; wooden handicapped fishing pier with safety rail; trash containers and signs. Additional Improvements which could be incorporated into the site plan at some time in the future, if desired or determined necessary, including restrooms for public use; and the utilization of the adjacent corner lot under ownership of Delmarva Power Company which could serve as overflow of parking; a picnic area with benches could also be provided along the shore- line for fishing on the Delmarva lot. PHASE II. CONTINUATION OF SITE IMPROVEMENTS AND SMALL BOAT AcCESS AREA Site Improvements including a continuation of the parking area and bank stabilization effort undertaken in Phase I. Boat Access Ramp would be constructed as a concrete slope or possibly a step-down facility to provide access for small boats, canoes, and rowboats. A conceptual site improvement schematic is provided in Figure 6 to illustrate the graphic relationships among the viaduct, the fishing area, and boat launch. -22- FIGURE 4 NEWPORT'FISHING a BOAT ACCESS AREA PHASE I SITE PLAN PAVED ASPHALT ROUTE 141 ,TOP SOIL, GRADED AND SEEDED MADUCT) SHORELINE STABILIZATION SCALE: l" 26 WATER STREET . . ........ ............. ....... .. ............ ........... ....... ... ........ ........... .... ....... .... ..... ..... .............. ..... ... . ....... ............ .......... w ......... w .. ........... ..... . 5: ............... ..... ........ ............ .... ................. ... .......... Vx. .. ........ .......... -... c/) w X.x`@ ...... .... Yl. NX .... ....... X, ..... ......... ui X MXM ...... .... ----------- ................... ....... ..... ...... .... ...... ....... ....... z..... ..... ........... ................. X. .............. :x. ............. . .... ........ .......... ..... . . . ...... 0 ........ . . .... ............ ........ .... z ............. cl) m (VIADUCT) CHRISTINA RIVER FIGURE 5 NEWPORT FISHING 8k BOAT ACCESS AREA PHASE 2 SITE PLAN PAVED ASPHALT T OP SOIL, GRADED AND SEEDED ROUTE 141 SHORELINE STABILIZATION (VIADUCT) WATER SCALE': 1" 20' w ...... .0"K U) U) w cn Ld . .. ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...... ....... *.il- .. . ..... .. . ........... ......... ... .... .. ..... INN* . . ... .... ................... .... 3K ...... z RK, . . .... cf) BOAT ..... ..... m RAMP T- I al N . . . . . . . . . . . . (VIADUCT) 0 CHR STINA RIVER, I WILLIAM J COHEN ASSOCIATES, INC. . . . . . . . . . . NXII ...... .... ................. ....... ... ..................... . ... ........... ..... ........... .... . . . . . . . .. ........ ...... .......... ......... .. .......... . . . . . . . . . . . .......... ...... ... . ..... .......... ............ .. .......... .... ......... ....... .......... ..... .. . ... .. . . . .................. . ... ........ ........ ... .......... .. . ..... ... . . . . . . .. . . . . . .I I I . . . . . . . . . . .......... . . . . . . . ................... .. .............. . ...... ........ .......... . ..... . ...... ........... ... . ..... .... .... .. .... .... .. ... . .... . ............... .. ...................... . ............ ........ ............... ............... .... . . ...... .. ... ....... . ... .... ........... .... . ...... . .... . .... . ......... .......... . ........... ....... . . ..... ........... ... ........... ... . . .... . OM ........ ..- ... ..... ..... . ..... ...... OP . ....... ..... . ....... .... .... ............ ... ....... . . . ..... ........ . ......... .. ......... ........ .. .... ................ . ...... . ...... .. .............. .. . ... . ...... . ..... ... .... ... ........ .... .. ..... ... . .. .. ...... . . ..... .. . .. ........... I........... ........... . .. ......... ...... .... .. rz.., .......... ....... ... ................ . ........ . ..... ..... . . ............. . ............ . ...... ........ ... . ............. .. ........ ... ........ IMPLEMERTATION COSTS The following represents an estimate (as of April, 1982) of constru ctio'n costs for the Newport Fishing and Small Boat Access Area. The total estimate to complete the fishing area (Phase I) is $68,000, and for the access area (Phase II) is $56,700. The total estimated cost for improving the Newport Site is $125,300. PHASE I. FiSHING AREA 1. Curb Cut 40 L.F. @ $17.00,/L.F. $ 680.00 2. Depressed Driveway 251 W x 10' L = 250 sf @ $3.50 875.00 3. Site Grading (Parking) A. 130 x 70 = 1011 sy = 170 cy @ $3.00 510.00 B. Crusher Run (6") = 895 sy @ $4.50 4,028.00 C. 2" Asphalt 910 sy + 9 = 101 tons @ $40.00 4,040.00 4. Site Grading (Fishing Area) A. 50' x 135' = 750 sy @ $3.00 2,250.00 B. Select Fill 130 cy @ $15.00 1,950.00 5. Berm A. Grading 5' x 751 = 14 cy @ $40.00 560.00 B. Bushes 75 L.F. @ $4.00 300.00 6. Landscaping A. Topsoil and Seed 590 sy + 150 sy 750 sy @ $2.00 1,500.00 7. Asphalt Walk 2" asp and 4" gravel 50 sy @ $10.00 500.00 8. Gabions 20' x 165' = 370 sy @ $50.00 18,500.00 9. Wooden Pier (8' x 20') A. 6 x 15 V.F. x $12.00/VF 1,080.00 B. 1,000 B.F. @ $4.00 4,000.00 10. Railroad Ties 280 L.F. @ $6.00 1,680.00 11. Park Type Trash Containers 120.00 -23- 12. Painting Parking Lot Stripes 17' x 20' 340 L.F. @ $1.00 $ 340.00 13. Signs 4 Ea @ $100.00 4-00.00 Subtotal $43,313.00 Total Construction Cost (including contracts overhead and profit) 549790.00 Engineering 69000.00 10 percent Contingencies 6,300.00 Total Cost $67,090.00 PHASE II, BoAT kCESs AREA 1. Site Grading 50 ' x 120' = 6,000 s.f. @ 8" depth 150 cy @ $3.00 450.00 2. Crusher-Run (6" depth) 50' x 120' = 667 sy @ $4.50 3,002.00 3. 2" Asphalt Pavement 670 sy + 9 75 tons @ $45.00 3,375.00 4. Gabions 65' x 20 145 sy @ $50.00 7,250.00 5. Railroad Ties 40 L.F. @ $7.00 280.00 6. Lighting (existing poles) 3 overhead lights @ $500.00 1,500.00 7. Boat Ramp A. Mob. and Demob. Pile Rig 2,000.00 B. Cofferdam 20' x 301 = 1,600 sf @ $B.00 12,800.00 C. Pumping 14 days @ $200.00 2,800.00 D. Stone 17 cy @ $15.00 255.00 E. Excavation 10 cy @ $20.00 200.00 F. Concrete 17 cy @ $150.00 2,550.00 B. Signs 4 Ea @ $100.00 400.00 Subtotal $36,862.00 Total Construction Cost 46,630.00 -24- 0 Engineering 5,000.00 10 percent Contingencies 5,200.00 Total Cost $56,830.00 -25- I I I I I CHAPTER 3 PARK DRIVE REECREATION AREA I I I I I I I I I I I I I 1 -26- RECREATION SITE SUITABILITY ANALYSIS SOILS There are seven primary soil types found on the Park Drive Site. Codorous silt loan and comus silt loam are the two dominant soil types, while the other five are found in isolated areas. The general characteristics of each of these soil types are described below and shown graphically on Figure 7. --Codorous silt loam (Co)--nearly level with a smooth surface, gently sloping in some areas, and in other areas has a somewhat irregular or wavy surface showing outlines of old stream channels; impeded drainage is a limitation according to the severity of the risk of floodwaters. --Comus silt loam (Cu)--nearly level in most places, gently or moderately sloping elsewhere, flooding is the only limitation; primarily an agricultural soil. --Matapeake silt loam (MeC3 )--five to ten percent slopes, severely eroded, most of the original surface layer has been washed away leaving a layer containing sticky material which was once subsoil, which puddles when wet and crusts when dry; also, many gullies and spots of firm, brittle subsoil which are not as well drained are evident. --Matapeake silt loam (MeB2 )--two to five percent slopes moderately eroded, has lost a significant amount of its original surface layer through erosion; includes some areas that have been gullied and a few areas covered with trees. -27- --Keyport silt loam (KeB2)--two to five percent slopes, moderately eroded; so me shallow gullies and some deep ones have formed, as well as some grave.Ily spots. --Sassafras-Matapeake (SmE)--15 to 30 percent slopes, silt to sandy in texture and thinner than normal above the sandy material; wooded areas show little erosion, cleared areas are seve Irely eroded; some spots are seasonally wet. --Sassafras sandy loam (SaC3)--five to ten percent slopes severely eroded, has a plow layer consisting of subsoil material which is brighter brown and.more sticky than the original layer; many gullies have formed and a few spots are gravelly. The Soil Conservation Service limitations for development on various soil types are classified as slight, moderate, or severe. Table 4 shows the limitations for each soil type for three recreational land uses. -28- FIGURE 7 EXISTING SOILS PARK DRIVE SITE SCALI 1 10 0 Cu 444 C/Y/? os@ Cu c9f?P 01?4 r/o Co Co Co KeBp P4 Cu --------------------------------------------------------- KeB2 MeB2 Mac 9132 E Co Co U Cu RITTENHOUSE PARK PREPARED BY WILLIAM J. COHEN AND ASSOCIATES, INC. Table 4 RECREATIONAL DEVELOR'ENT LIMITATIONS FOR SOIL GROUPS, PAR1< DRIVE SITE Soil Athletic Fields and Extensive Play and Paths and Trails Type Intensive,Play.Areas Picnic Areas Co severe-flood hazard severe-flood hazard s'evere@flood hazard Cu severe-flood hazard severe-flood hazard severe-flood hszard MeB2 moderate-slope slight slight MeC3 severe-slope slight slight KeB2 severe-slow slight slight permeability SaC3 severe-slope slight slight SmE severe-slope severe-slope moderate; severe on slopes over 25 percent Source: Soil Survey Interpretations for Delaware. (U. S. Department of Agriculture, 1968). FLoop HAzARD ANAL-Ysis The Flood Plain Information Study prepared by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1969 indicates that the entire Park Drive Site falls in either the intermediate regional flood plain of the Christina River, defined as an area subject to flooding on the average of once in 100 years,or the standard project flood plain (500-year flood). However, this may not be the most reliable information concerning flooding potential due to the' natural changes which would have occurred since 1969 and also due to the changes to the flood plain -29- created by the construction of the.Newark Connector roadway. In addition, since no buildings will be planned for the Park Drive Site, the flood hazard area is of less than usual significance. In general, the soilscharacteristics can be used as a gauge of flood potential. As shown by Table 4 and Figure 7, the Codorus and Comus soils which line the Christina River during its entire meander across the Park Drive Site, are the only seriously flood-prone soils types. STREET SYSTEM The Park Drive Site will have direct access to the Newark roadway system via Park Drive, which intersects with South College Avenue a short distance from the site. South College Avenue, a major Newark thoroughfare, connects downtown Newark and the University of Delaware campus to the north with Interstate 95 and the communities of Glasgow and Middletown to the south. Interstate 95 (The Delaware Turnpike) is located less than one mile south of the intersection between Park Drive and South College Avenue. The new Newark Connector although passing immediately north of the Park Drive Site, will not offer direct ingress and egress for the Park Drive Site. UTILITIES In the event that any facility is provided at the Park Drive Site which would require utility service, water and sewer service could be provided easily, since there are water and sanitary sewer lines at various points on the site. The City of Newark maintains the entire sanitary sewer line which crosses the western portion of the Park Drive Site and connects with the Chestnut Hill Interceptor. The line consists of a 36-inch pipe with ample capacity, according to the City of Newark Department of PublicWorks. A 12- inch water main, maintained by the Artesian Water Company, extends the length -30- of the Park Drive Site, thereby insuring the availability of water service. There are currently no electric lines an the site. According to the City.of Newark Electric Department, the only way of providing electrical se rvice on the site would be to extend a connection to the closest City of Newark electrical line, which terminates on Park Drive, east of the Park Drive Site. VisuAL ANALYSIS There is a dominant presence of natural features on the Park Drive Site and a large proportion of the site is wooded. The Christina River runs the length of the site. The Ci ty of Newark's Rittenhouse Park abutts the site on the south and along the Christina, which is heavily wooded and adds visual depth to the Park Drive Site (Photograph 5). The land north of the site is under construction for the Route 4 Newark Connector and is in sharp contrast to the natural amenities of the area as shown in Photographs 4 and 6. Deciduous woodland covers approximately two-thirds of the site and provides a visual buffer to the connector. The major tree types are maple, sweetgum, sycamore, and ash. There is a large triangular clearing along the northern perimeter of the site that lacks vegetation and is low in elevation. A swath 40 to 50 feet wide cuts across the woods from the outer edge of the site to the Christina River and continues to the large clearing. It is an easement for a 12-inch water line. There are cement posts intermittently placed, locating the easement. The only other areas devoid of trees are the western and eastern edge of the property. A narr ow footpath follows through the woods along the north side of the Christina River. The site is low in elevation and is subject to fl ooding. After rain, drainage is a problem in the lowest areas especially the cleared portion of the site between the woods and the Connector Roadway. Three drainage catch- -31- VISUAL HIGHLIGHTS PARK DRIVE SITE . .......... Photograph 4 09-1 11 Photograph 5 Photograph 6 -32- ments built under the connector empty water onto the site into swales that flow toward the Christina River. The largest of the swales has banks up to three feet high. The Christina River enters the site from the west and meanders southwest to the perimeter of the site and forms a natural boundary between the site and Rittenhouse Park. The River varies in width from approximately 30 to 60 feet wide. The water is remarkably clear with banks ranging from three to six feet in height and lined with large trees extending over the water. An interesting effect is created by the interplay of the eroded stream banks and the exposed tree roots. The River bed depth varies from deep pools to shallow rapids and is strewn with large rocks. A sandy beach has formed along one bend of the River and seems a natural location for activity. Rittenhouse Park borders the southern perimeter of the site. It is an attractive and wooded park which has been improved with recreation equipment such as swings and slides. There is direct access to the park from the eastern portion of the site. Directly south of the pa rk is the subdivision of Arbour Park. Well-kept houses are visible from the River bank through the narrower portions of Rittenhouse Park. Manor Real Estate Company owns the property that abutts the western tip of the site, while the Silverbrook subdivision and Park Drive abutt the eastern portion of the site. North of the site is a 200-foot wide right-of-way where the Route 4 Newark Connector is under construction, for two-directional traffic with shoulders. In addition,there will be a separate bike path on the south side of the road- way. The width of the roadway and bike path will be approximately 100 feet. In the proximity of the low elevation clearing, the connector and bike path are built on a high escarpment. The road will be at eye level here and -33- dominates the visual space. The Chrysler Assembly Plant. is located directly north of the right-of-way Two large one-story buildings, parking lots, and cleared storage space are visible -from the site. There are more woods in the distance. The visual analysis revealed an attractive wooded stream valley which has not been degraded to a great extent by man. The exception is the northern boundary where a disharmony is created by the presence of the connector and the Chrysler Assembly Plant. MAsoN-DixoN TRAiL The Mason-Dixon Trail is a hiking trail organized by t rail clubs in the region. The intent was to create a 250-mile trail from Havre de Grace, Maryland, to York County, Pennsylvania, with a branch to Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, through Newark, to link the Appalachian Trail with the Horseshoe Trail. The trail joins the Christina River at its junction with Persimmon Creek and proceeds eastward, across the Park Drive Site, eventually entering Rittenhouse Park south of the Park Drive Site. The trail follows the south bank of the Christina. The Mason-Dixon Trail, therefore, crosses the nature trail proposed for the Park Drive Site. Any persons following the Mason Dixon Trail could cross the proposed footbridge onto the Park Drive Site on the north side of the Christina. -34- RECREATION SITE.PLAN LocuioNAL IMPORTANCE The Park Drive Site can logically serve as an extension of Rittenhouse Park (see Figure 3) and should only be improved to the extent that complementary passive recreational and park opportunities can be realized. Therefore, the Park Drive Site is proposed to be in corporated into the Newark Park System. Pgoposm AcTiviTiEs Following from the previous site suitability analysis, the Park Drive Site has limited potential for development as an active or intensive recreation, athletic, or play area. Moreover, the subsequent plan has been designed to keep annual operation and maintenance costs to an absolute minimum. The potential activities that could be accommodated on the site include: 1. walking, hiking, jogging, and backpacking 2. bird watching, nature observation, and fishing 3. bicycling (on the contiguous connector bikeway) 4. leisure time activities such as resting and picnicking PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS AND IMPLEMENTATION Improvements for the Park Drive Site are suggested to coincide with the completion of the Newark Connector to the extent of the site work necessary to make the area accessible to the public. As a result, the following are suggested to be undertaken by the Delaware Department of Transportation, with approval of the Federal Highway Administration and the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. The plann ed improvements are graphically shown on the site plan (Figure 8). It is assumed that with appropriate governmental approval, the implementation costs could be subsumed as part of the construction of the Newark Connector, thereby not requiring any additional -35- FIGURE 8 PARK DRIVE SITE PLAN WOCDS LINE PUBLIC ROAD ACCESS NATlJR'E HIKING TRAIL CONNECTOR R-O-W SCALE: I"= 100 co/?p oj'i4 7-/o, 00;@. IN Sl c . . . . . . . . . . ON P4 Ck 0071 G$ rmo RITTENHOUSE PARK PREPARED BY WILLIAM J. COHEN ASSOCIATES, INC. funding. Essentially, specific improvements would consist of the following as part of the Newark Connector project: * Redesign roadway access from Park Drive cul-de-sac to allow for interior access as desired by the Newark Parks Department (a detail of this improvement is shown on Figure 9) * Stone/gravel base for interior roadway to connector with cul-de-sac * regrade for access from bikeway at start of grade separation (of connector and bikeway) The site plan (Figure 7) shows additional improvements that are presented as elements that could be implemented if the anticipated operations and maintenance costs can be assumed by the jurisdiction taking ultimate control of the park. These improvements are estimated to cost approximately $15-20,000 and include: * Railroad ties to demark parking on interior road * bike racks * signs for nature hiking trail * footbridge for crossing of drainage swale * footbridge crossing of Christina River -36- FIGURE 9 PARK DRIVE SITE PUBLIC ROAD ACCESS DETAIL SCALE: I"= 3d NEWARK CONNECTOR EAST- BOUND -LANE-t B I K E WAY PARK DRIVE SITE BOUNDARY k STot4E BASE E x is -,@@)ROF'OSCD GRA DIN IVG FR- -I \-J DIRT . . .... .... .. .. ............. V181) . .. ... PA sp -HA. r .. .. .... . . ... ... . .... .... moo 3 6668 14109 9863