[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]
ast8r Plan COASTAL ZONE a INFORMATION C43NTER v 7_1 4"1 T document was prepared n part e CO ass;stance P,ov, astal Z 'de by one ; d M4n-'P'mef,+ Ac L v the of Of fi_@@ _f 19-72 "at'onal' 0c,'l,,n;cWrd A,F. Wsyne COuntiy ' - @_ Z"e,03nagement OaC jd,,,IeKC Ad 043pt' Of POrks a,,.-, --- OMMT"Vg,@Qn I I= Im Ow M: M M w 4mw =11 low M% as index Letter of Introduction I LIST OF MAPS C r e d i t s 2 Regional Location 7 Summary 3 Topography 11 Purpose of the Master Plan 8 V e g e t a t i a n 12 H i s t o r y 9 Site Analysis 18 Technical Analysis 10 Schemati c Plan 26 Master Plan Concept 19 Master Plan 27 Priorities and Generab Cost Estimate 29 Alternate Entrance Study 28 Funding Methods 31 Appendix 32 M M M M M M M BILLS/CHILDS ASSOCIATES, P.C. 5221 COMMERCE ROAD, ORCHARD LAKE, MICHIGAN 48033 313 - 682-7644 SITE DEVELOPMENT PLANNING URBAN DESIGN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE GOLF COURSE ARCHITECTURE PARK PLANNING ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN Board of Wayne County Road Commissioners October 20, 1979 Department of Parks & Parkways 415 Cl i fford Detroit, Wichigan 48226 Attn: Edwin E. AKika, Superintendent Gentlemen: As per your directive, we are pleased to submit this Master Plan for the present and future redevelopment of Elizabeth Park. This plan represents the combined efforts of your staff, the Community Project Task Porce, the Downriver Community Confe- rence, citizen groups and our office as park planning consultants. Particular recognition is extended to the Office of Coastal Zone Management, Na- tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration through the Affichigan Department of Natural Resources., Division of Land Resource Programs for their funding assistance toward completing the plan under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972. The Elizabeth Park Master Plan has been developed to point up the importance of the park's 60 years of operationsas public open spaceand to insureit's continuance as a valuable segment inthe formationofa regional DetroitRiver public recreation system. Ouroffi ce together with all concerned look forward to the plan'@s successful implementation. Respectfully submitted, LS/CHILDS ASSOCIATES, P.C. ROBERT W. BILLS, R.L.A. President nom,molim mm m@aftm on swim MM b@Z6-. G,44 1 19 7`7 credits Board of Wayne County Road Commissioners Ray Turczyn Downriver Community Conference Elizabeth Park Redesign Task Force: Wayne County Representatives Recreation Representatives Commissioner William Sul-'l-ivan Larry Fitch, Director Wayne County Board of Commissioners City of Trenton Parks & Recreation Department Edwin Mika, Parks & Recreation Superintendent Miichael Shea, Director City of Woodhaven Parks & Recreation Department Max Hilton, Parks & Recreation Supervisor Sam Palamara, Superintendent of Recreation Nancy Watkins, Landscape Architect City of Wyandotte Office of Coastal Zone Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Patrick Murphy, Director Administration City of Licoln Park, Parks & Recreation Department Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Division of Land Resource Charles Horn Programs City of Woodhaven, Department of Recreation Bills/Childs Associates, P.C., Landscape Architect, Project Consultants Dan Duncan Orchard Lake, Wichigan Huron Clinton Metropolitan Authority Planning Representatives Maurice Rouch Wayne County Planning Commission 2 I= an WMIN M summary History and Existing Conditions Since its initial development during 1919 under the jurisdiction of the Wayne loped appreciations of the beautiful in the accomplishments of those who use County Board of Park Trustees, Elizabeth Park has provided rest and relaxa- well their talents; while ihe appreciation of the beautiful in nature is agift' tion for millions of Detroit area citizens for over 60 years. which is common to practically all of us, born with the gift of life itself, and parks, developed and protected, give us nature and nature's beauty at its Situated within the downriver suburb of Trenton, Elizabeth Park covers 162 best. acres of beautifully wooded open space with over 1/2 mile of Detroit River Edward N. Hines, Chairman frontage. The park site represents a marked contrast to the tightly surround- Wayne County Board of Park Trustees ing intensive urban development that has prevailed since the park's inception. The Elizabeth Park site over its six decades of existence functioned as a de- Elizabeth Park's basic purpose and function is effectively summarized in this sirable, publicly operated, recreation resource with many family groups pa- excerpt from the December 1, 1919 to September 1, 1923 report on the Board tronizing such popular facilities as playgrounds, picnic groves, pony rides, of County Park Trustees. spray pool, botanical gardens, hiking trails, community house and waterfront activities including fishing, ferry boat rides plus boat races. An attractive "Public Parks are common necessities. The country's need of parks is as tourist lodge building was also available off Jefferson Avenue on the east park self evident as its need of public schools, public highways, public fire pro- boundary. Accessible to both local and regional communities, Elizabeth Park tection, public sewer systems, public water supply or any other public ser- has within recent years been subject to a steady deterioration of park facilities vice to al I the people of an organized community, which can be better that has significantly reduced the park's former structure, particularly as a supplied through co-operative action than through individual effort. family oriented waterfront attraction. The principal causes for th"is reversal can be attributed to changing lifestyles, convenient expressway access to nor- Public parks are necessities because man, collectively, is so constituted that thern Michigan recreation areas, prevailing county maintenance budget con- change is a necessity if he is to best serve his fellows and while the result of straints, and rising operational costs. an agreeable change is pleasure, the result of pleasure is rest; and the result of rest is health. Parks, then, are pure utilitarianism. The design approach for required improvements must combine the maximum use of existing park resources while considering such impacts as current recreation Some of us can appreciate the beauti es of art pi ctorial , whi I e others appre- interests, increasing construction costs, maintenance surveillance, and energy ciate the highest and best in music; still others, the beauty which is to be conservation. Certainly these elements are of vital importance in any meaning- found in the writings of great masters of literature; but all these are deve- ful resurrection toward redevelopment as an attractive waterfront recreation am mbwmlmm@ mom I ocati on. setting this imbalance of riverfront land use. Support data for the above rationale has been taken from the following sour- By way of summary, seven improvement categories identified within the master ces. plan and considered as urgent, follow in terms of recommended priorities. I . "Southeastern Michigan Shoreline Study, 1974" United States Depart- I . Utilities ment of the Interior", 1974 The majority of the park's utility systems, including electrical, water, 2. "People and the River, 1977", Wayne County Planning Commission and phone and sanitary lines have deteriorated beyond a point where spot Office of Coastal Zone Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric repairs are adequate. A detailed engineering survey is required of all Administration utility deficiencies (including lighting) toward replacement to serve pre- sent needs together with those projected within the master plan. 3. "Detroit River Recreation Study, 1979", Downriver Community Con- ference 2. Roads and Parking 4. Elizabeth Park Redevelopment Plan Task Force Second only to utilities, park road and parking improvements deserve a high priority. The present road loop drive is obsolete and affords little 5. " 1979 Vehi cl eSurveys", Safety and Traffic Division, Board of Wayne control opportunity for park operations particularly at the main entrance. County Road Commissioners Parallel loop road parking, a part of 1920 construction, is hazardous and fails to distribute park users in a desirable pattern throughout the area. 6. Downriver Area Public Hearings Recommended improvements call for utilizing approximately 60% of the existing loop roadbed for access only to specifically constructed parking 7. Project Consultant Field Reconnaissance lots convenient to facilities. This system could utilize either the existing entrance off of Elizabeth Park Drive or a new connector entrance off of As indicated from the above sources of design support data, the Elizabeth Jefferson Avenue north of the lodge building and crossing the Edison Canal. Park Master Plan for redevelopment;as documented herein has been develop- According to a recent Wayne County Road Commission survey (see Appen- ed as a segment of several current regional efforts to plan a series of water- dix) either option would function satisfactorily provided proper park en- front oriented public recreation sites stretching from Metropolitan Beach in trance controls are constructed. Total parking capacities would reach ap- Macomb County at the north extremity, south along the Detroit River shore proximately 1000 cars with boat launching access continuing with separate to Pointe Mouillee State Game Area on the south in Monroe County. The access off of Grosse Isle Parkway (includes expansion of boat launching public recreation potential of this great river resource has long been mini- parking) . mized in deference to private interests of an industrial, commercial and re- sidential nature. Improvements to Elizabeth Park could greatly assist in off- 4 MMMM.MJMSM mosamooomom M1VMAM loan an Oman N=MMft*NM 3. Picnic Areas 6. Shelters The completion of a new road and parking system should be followed with A once attractive shelter structure constructed during the 1920's and situ- a number of improvements in picnic areas. These include selected tree ated in the northeast sector of the park is presently boarded up and serves clearing, turfing and the placement of play equipment. Two totally new as a storage shed. This structure along with damaged toilet buildings de- picnic areas are recommended requiring shelters and a toilet building. serve restoration to their original classic form and function. Two new shelters are also recommended as a part of new picnic areas. 4. Existing Buildings 7. Concessions Existing buildings particularly toilet facility structures are in urgent need of improvements. Their present locations are workable with regard to The present food concession-building has within recent years experienced master plan recommendations. a steady decline in patronage and is expected to be eliminated. The building structure is sound and could be converted to either a bicycle con- A totally new park office/equipment shelter building is recommended for cession or a group picnic shelter. construction at the present park entrance for entrance control purposes and convenient supply delivery. This particular project could be phased The pony concession as in the post remains popular to Elizabeth Park visi- i tors and should be continued accompanied by certain improvements. These initiating construction off an equipment storage structure as the present entrance holding the office section in abeyance until a firm determina- include relocation of the concession structures to a site near the present tion is made on the ultimate park entrance location, either off of Jef- stable building together with construction of a small animal exhibit and ferson Avenue or Elizabeth Park Drive. In either case, strong considera- blacksmith shop. tion should be given to park entry toll charges. Other park area improvements of a less critical nature and proposed within the 5. Walks master redevelopment plan are summarized below. Priorities here will, in all probability, be dependent on available funding. Present hard surfaced park walkways are in extremely poor condition and many do not relate to current use areas. Bikeways are non exis- 1. Construction of waterfront plaza at equipment/shelter building site fea- tent other than the loop road surface. The once popular riverfront walk tures river overlooks, boat docking, and boardwalk extensions. is beyond repair in its present form and receives little use. High priori- ty should be given to certain segments of the proposed redevelopment 2. Conversion of equipment/shelter building interior to concession and pro;-- plan. Specific examples are slopeside ramps for handicapped access to grammed activities space. the waterfront, first phases of a 20 foot boardwalk along the river edges and bikeways linking the park via existing canal pedestrian bridges to 3. Construction of waterfront amphitheater over old former garden site with the north. a seating capacity for approximately 700 persons. 5 soma M NOON MI@'smo*Mow in 4. Construction of short term large boat docking facility along north sector riverfront. 5. Construction of short term boat docks at northeast end of the Edison Ca- nal . 6. Completion of riverfront connecting boardwalk and fishing piers. 7. Winter sports improvements; speed skating rink relocation, toboggan slide construction and improvements to existing winter sports area for all season use. 8. Conversion/expansion of present lodge building off of Jefferson Avenue to a reception hall center with complete support facilities. 9. Miscellaneous improvements; tennis courts, ball fields, signs and land- scaping. The implementation of the redevelopment plan will certainly depend as noted previously on the availability of funds. Various funding programs at all go- vernmental levels should be researched toward the plan's eligibility for appli- cation. Short term projects (I to 5 years) within the framework of the plan should be taken from the seven high priorities listed above. The balance of plan projects as identified herein would be programmed possibly over a 25 year period again depending on funding availability. 6 Lj 11 V 15 JOY JOY r RD. -IN FQ- 1ALT1 I CHERRY HI 14 Lm Z; IL P 0 MILEB If IT PAL 11RIE E] GEWES ffiu 17 -15 MILES IAJ SE @R 1;1 1@0 M 3? E ORSE ILLOW RUN AIRPORT WICK TYLER] R. A S 94 10 mi TEXT L LjL,j -11 HILL L OVE'_ L@E lid I MARTZ ]@@ I LC URO IL W DA BEMIS ET PAR I W @ONT SIBLEY IF 41 REEK WILLI 4 JUV:Vj %D R ROSSOLT N"Ll, RD PEW RD oi WILLOW L-U, RD z 'AR OAK ASH !0 RD RA S-1 zo. ARKONA ki DAY 0 A K'V'kS, I r16 @.Ljl, I KWOOD MRD RE61MAN RD@ L MILANIOAKVILLE RD* so E I DARI ING L L I O.AN RD. MATTI 23 w f A 'OW' L 1@ ".RT.1MIrq. y '@ NR '@ L i 7F@ 9 @TE 4 4. 1 =.-T, IL H Ruo:, CRjr, NE LER d I d , z k OFIFID RDJ TR R IL rR. Al 1A CO F Lo @RANDIR LABO 711 _:W@] DEVI [jFF;Tw:0 qjrZl@ @K _rT v NFWPORT Rq I =" am so as IM purpose of the, master plan Present day Elizabeth Park operations show an obvious need for both physical public services ore presently under extreme inflationary pressure making assis- and maintenance improvements. The master redevelopment plan has been tance grants an absolute necessity. prepared to identify, organize and assign priorities to needed improvements. It will in addition provide a guide for developing short and long range im- According to the 1978 Southeast Michigan Council of Governments, "Popula- plementation programs. The plan's design and intent is to also function as tion and Occupied Dwelling Units", Wayne County has average moderate pop- a part of regional planning currently in progress to develop the recreotional ulation growth within its component communities south of Detroit. Exceptions potential along a 14 mile length of the Detroit River. Labeled the "Detroit are Taylor, Brownstown, Woodhaven and Rockwood where increases over 5000 River Recreation Study" and administered by the Downriver Community Con- persons hove been recorded. These figures tend to support the county's objec- ference, the study area reaches from the river shores of the City of River tive of attempting to hold Elizabeth Park as a needed regional recreation orea Rouge south to Ceferon Island. Elizabeth Pork is a major component of this and to effect improvements insofar as assistance programs allow. No additional regional study area. land acquisition in addition to the park's present 162 acres is under considera- tion. Located within the City of Trenton, Elizabeth Park is also a significant foc- tor within that City's continuing planning process. Though classified as a regional unit, Elizabeth Pork's operations have a recognized impact of Tren- ton's local community environment. This point has been an important deter- minont within the plan's preparation. A large measure of financial assistance toward the completion of the above river study and the Elizabeth Pork Master Plan has been provided by the Office of Coastal Sone Management through the Michigan State Department of Natural Resources, Coastal Zone Management Unit. Empowered by the National Coastal Zone Act of 1972, coastal zone offices throughout the United States assist in improvement programs directly relating to the na- tion's navigable coastline areas, , Of major impovtonce in the production of the Elizabeth Park Master Plan is its use by Wayne County toward the project's eligibility for a number of state and federal assistance programs. County improvement budgets for off 8 " -M 1111111111111 " M IMI history Followed by State Act 90 of 1913, the Wayne County Board of Supervisors Since its ini'tial development during the 1920 period Elizabeth Park, 22 miles on October 29 '1919 accepted the 162 acre Elizabeth Park site from its from Detroit, has been a prime attraction to many family groups and indivi- doners, Elliott S. Nichols and his two sisters, Alice S. Church and Char- duals seeking rest and relaxation from their intensively developed urban en- lotte S. Church. It was Mr. Elliott and his sisters desire that this riverfront vironments. Waterfront activities such as canoeing, boat regattas, excursion land be developed and maintained in perpetuity as a public recreation area ferries, fishing, and visual contact with Detroit River activity were among the to be named "Elizabeth Park" in memory of their mother, Elizabeth Slocum park's prime attractions. Spacious shaded picnic groves, walks and pony trails Nichols. The Nichols family further stated as a part of the conditions con- were also available remaining in operation to date. tingent on their gift that a sixty foot wide canal be excavated the length of the site's low eastern margin extending south from the Detroit River to what During the 1930's, 40's and early 50's Elizabeth Park continued to offer most is now Grosse I le Parkway. of its original facilities with the exception of swimming, discontinued due to early pollutants of the Detroit River. During recent years heavy family group As a result of the Nichols family gift and its county acceptance, the Wayne use has shown a steady decline with predominantly youth groups over the past County Board of Supervisors also appointed a board of 3 park trustees from 15 years comprising the greater percentage of users. Many previous and then among the board of supervisors. A total of one thousand dollars was concur- desirable park facilities have also deteriorated either due to rising maintenance rently appropriated for initial improvements and maintenance of the new costs or lack of replacement. The old Slocum family mansion overlooking the Elizabeth Park property. river that had for many years served as a pavilion/activities center totally burned in October, 1975. A small ferry boat landing north of the equipment/ Wayne County's first park board realized that additional funds would be shelter building is no longer in operation. Use of the waterfront is presently necessary to fully develop Elizabeth Park and to acquire additional park minimal attracting only a few fishermen. lands throughout the County, moved during 1921 to set up and approve through state legislature Public Act No. 14 authorizing county boards of The most recent new facility of major size is the smal I boat- launching site con- supervisors to levy an annual tax of 1/4 mil on county assessed land valua- structed in 1973 at the south end of the park site off of Grosse lie Parkway. tion to acquire, improve and maintain county park properties. Following Other improvements have been minor including a ballfield, nature trail and a this action, many substantial improvements were implemented throughout the gravel offroad parking area. balance of the 1920's including dredging of the Edison Canal, construction of loop road, walks and bridges. Toilet buildings, lighting, water system, In spite of declining patronage and strained maintenance levels an estimated sea walls, docks, bathing beach and a vigorous shade tree planting program. 400,000 persons visited the park during 1970. Since that date increases have A copy of park board expenditures covering these facilities from 1919 to been recorded primarily due to the popularity of the small boat launching fa- 1923 is shown on page cility. 9 WM@IMIIWI MMI M technical analysis Existing Physical Conditions S a i I s Topography The entire 162 acre Elizabeth Park site is composed generally of soils within The park site topographic characteristics are basically in the form of a large the Pewamo-Blount groups. These soils are level to moderately sloping and rolling plateau surrounded by Detroit River floodplain margins. These flood- are poorly to somewhat poorly drained with fine textures. plains extend from the shorelines to the base of a 12 to 15 foot embankment that forms the north, east and west edges of the plateau area. The configura- The Pewamo soils occur along the park site's shorelines and within small in- ti on is shown on the Topographic Map on page terior wet areas, periodically subject to flooding. Principal management concerns are the removal of water and maintaining the tilth. Pewamo soils Elevational changes range from a high of 596 at the present baseball diamond comprise approximately 15% of the park site with the largest area occurring and playfield to a low of 575 at the shorelines. This represents a total change in the present winter sports area between the Edison Canal and Jefferson Ave- of 21 feet throughout the entire 162 acre park site. With the exception of the nue. embankments elevational profiles are level to gently rolling. Blount soils make up 80% of the park site covering higher elevational areas. Principal drainage courses are composed of a series of swales throughout the These soils formed in loamy glacial till and are somewhat poorly drained. plateau area flowing from north to south entering the Detroit River at Grosse On steep slopes they are subject to severe erosion as evidenced along the I I e Parkway. A number of these plateau drains traverse heavi I y wooded areas park's northeast embankments facing the river. Principal management con- and are clogged with forest debris producing slow movement of runoff. cerns for park development are removal of excess water, erosion, and main- taining organic matter. Vegetative Cover 5% of the park site representing a narrow margin between the foot of the north- Elizabeth Park is 80% wooded including numerous large mature trees. With east embankment and the river shore is composed of fill placed over Pewarno the exception of two playfields, the plateau area encompassed by the loop soils. This area is stable and largely turfed. Detailed inspections will be re- park drive is a dense forest stand supporting a wide variety of native trees, quired prior to any construction in this location. shrubs, vines and wildflowers. Examples of large hardwood tree species in- clude elm, oak, hickory, beech and maple. Softwoods such as Red Maple, In general, Elizabeth Park's soil characteristics present few limitations for re- poplar willow, basswood, cherry and boxelder are in evidence throughout the creation use. entire park site. May large willow, poplar and sycamore trees are thriving 10 m MIMI 111111111101111 "an Ml 111111111 111111111 . . . . . . . . . . . L--j .. ......... .......... ........... .......... .......... .......... . .. . . .... ....... Signif !can Flood Plain Area N-1 no ,A R B\A 4 47 00" '9 Ir 00 M Water Are Lq X: ..... ... ... ... .. . . KWAY Contourinter 0 R= 4= ON IL@ Ica 300 Boo TOPOGRAPHY NORTH 00^@% In PONT ELIZABETH PARK WAYNE COUNTY ROAO COMMISSION PARKS & RECREATION OEPARTMENT @1-1 jappes, Au --- - ----- - ------- 4C) -------- -- AT E1128beith Park Orive iZ5' OSTROIT RIVER Exis Tree OROSS ILE PARKWAY 0 goo 400 sis ll@ 100 300 Boo VEGETATION NORTH @@. 1. -@ ELIZABETH PARK WAYNE COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT 12 along the Edison Canal shores and Detroit River front. The predominance of period of initial park improvements. These walks are 4 to 5 feet in width and tree cover is due in part to the county practice during earlier years of annu- provide pedestrian access to many scenic park areas. Interior walks connect ally planting large number of young trees over the park site to reinforce exist- to the mainland on the north via the main entrance bridge and two attractive ing cover, concrete canal footbridges. Concrete walkways also parallel most of the main loop road and follow the river shore. To date the larger percentages of these Small trees such as shadblow, hawthorn, dogwood and redbud are scattered walk surfaces have deteriorated to a level where they are hazardous to both through all wooded areas together with a variety of shrub groups. Mass shrub pedestrians and cyclists. plantings of sumac, honeysuckle, forsythia, viburnum and euonymus have been introduced by park operations over a sixty year period. In some cases these The heavy wooded park interior is traversed by a self guided woodchip nature plants have attained record sizes. Conifers in the form of firs, pine and spruce trail together with a 3/4 mile pony ride concession trail'@ Each are very scenic also were introduced earlier and have attained substantial sizes. and are in good use by park visitors. Vegetative cover within floodplain areas is for the most part scattered consist- Park access by boat is minimal due to lack of docking facilities and low canal ing of individual large trees or small groupings. A heavy lineal thicket of bridges. brush occurs along the entire Jefferson Avenue park boundary from an effec- tive visual and traffic noise screen. Park locations used for playfields, pic- Bui I d i ngs:': nic groves and unprogrammed open space is maintained largely in turf. Present park building structures are listed and described as follows: Present Park Facilities 1. Equipment/shelter building, covering 7,360 square feet, this building is Access: the largest structure in the park, situated on southeast segment of the loop drive and overlooking the Detroit River. The building serves as a The main public entrance to Elizabeth Park remains in the same location where large public shelter with public toilets and an outdoor terrace. The south it was originally constructed by the county road commission during the mid end-of the building functions as a grounds maintenance equipment garage. 1920's including a vehicular canal bridge off of Elizabeth Park Drive from west The shelter area is often programmed for such use as group picnics, wedding Jefferson Avenue in downtown Trenton. The amin park road is 40 feet wide receptions, art shows and club meetings. aligned in a 1.8 mile loop return. This main road was constructed in 1924 of concrete with sufficient width to accommodate parallel parking along the 2. Food concession building, constructed during the 1930's. This building is curbs. No public parking within separate parking lots was provided until re- located on the loop drive 700 feet north of the equipment/shelter building, cently with the construction of a boat launching facility and an unpaved 80 offering soft drinks, hot dogs, hamburgers, potato chips, etc. to park visi- car lot to the south serving a playfield picnic area. tors. An extensive system of concrete walks was also completed during the 1920 3. Lodge building, located immediately west of the Edison Canal on West 13 Jefferson Avenue. This brick building covers 3, 160 square feet includ- 3. Two concrete shuffleboard courts are available to the public at the east ing meeting rooms, public toilets and very limited kitchen facilities. end of the tennis courts. Court surfaces are in fair condition and are Constructed in the 1930's, the structure served for some time as a tourist frequently used during peak picnic area use. information center and rest stop for travelers between Detroit and points south. 4. Three main attractive picnic groves are available with two often in use during summer weekends. The most popular area covers approximately 4. There are four comfort stations or toilet buildings situated throughout the 7 acres of shaded ground south of the tennis courts. A playfield, play- entire park. Ranging in size from 910 square feet to 260 square feet, two ground equipment, stoves, tables, toilet building and an 80 car gravel of these units have become non operational due to repeated vandalism. off road parking lot are a part of picnic facilities at this location. A One unit situated within the northeast sector of the park is totally unusea- large childrens spray pool was once a feature within this location but is ble and has been closed for some time. With the exception of the boat no longer operational due to current public health code ordinances. launching site toilets (constructed in 1973), the other restroom facilities were built in the late 1920's and represent a unique architectural design A 5 acre pi cni c grove between the food concession and pony ride offi ce of that period. is also patraonized by park visitors although the lack of convenient toi- let facilities here tends to discourage users. Stoves and tables are availa- 5. The pony stable building is an attractive masonry building covering ap- ble together with a large adjacent playfield on the south. proximately 900 square feet and located at the park's central wooded in- terior was constructed in 1927 as a stable for ponies. Elizabeth Park has One of the most attractive sites within Elizabeth Park is a six acre area maintained a pony ride concession for most of its six decades of operations shaded with tall stately trees and overlooking the Detroit River. Located and thousands of visitors have enjoyed this facility both summer and win- in the park's northeast sector at the top of a 20 foot embankment, this ter. site was formerly occupied by the old Slocum manor house that success- fully served as a recreation center until it burned in 1975. The area re- Recreation Facilities: ceives little use by picnickers again due to an absence of toilets and other support facilities. I . The small boat launching facility located at the southeast extremity of Elizabeth Park off of Grosse lie Parkway has been heavily attended Remaining picnic areas are situated in the west park sector along the east since it opened in 1973. Since that time over 100,000 boats have been side of the loop road and between Jefferson Avenue and the Edison Canal launched on this popular facility with 19,756 of that number launched adjacent to the lodge building. The latter utilizes the lodge for toilet during 1978. facilities. 2. A four court tennis facility is available at no charge immediately west 5. A 4-21acre playfield between the tennis courts and food concession contains of the large equipment shelter building. Court surfaces are in moder- a well maintained baseball and softball field. The baseball field receives ately good condition, however no night lighting is provided. little use since youthful visitors prefer to utilize the well turfed outfield 14 for throwing frisbees. In contrast, the softball diamond is popular to- Surrounding Land Use gether with the field to the south particularly in connection with group picnic activity. North: 6. A self guiding nature trail approximately 3/4 mile in length has been Slocum Avenue between West Jefferson Avenue and Elizabeth Park Drive forms established within the northwest sector of Elizabeth Park traversing a the northwest park border. This area is a long established residential section part of the heavily wooded area and following the east edge of the Edi- of relatively well maintained homes. The park's main entrance directly from son Canal. No naturalist services are available at the present time. the corner of Slocum and Elizabeth Park Drive is surrounded by this type of de- velopment. Four acres of parkland is situated to the northeast on the mainland 7. The southwest extremity of Elizabeth Park between West Jefferson and fronting on the canal and the Detroit River. This mainland site borders the foot the canal is utilized for skating activities. Consisting of a wide turfed of Riverside Drive also a residential section within the City of Trenton. Tren- field flanked on the west by a long linear parking lot,this area is ap- ton's central business dirstrict on West Jefferson Avenue is one block north of proximately seven acres in size and is graded for winter flooding to pro- the park's main entrance. duce a six lop speed skating oval on the south end together with a large free skating surface on the north. A small warm up shed where skaters South: may build their own fires is positioned on the west side of the parking area. The nearby lodge building is utilized for additional warm up area A large Detroit Edison power plan complex lies immediately south of the park and toilet facilities. Accessible directly off of Jefferson Avenue, this site separated by Grosse lie Parkway. Land use to the south is largely heavy winter activity area has maintained a good degree of patronage from industrial with a scattering of commercial along the West Jefferson corridor those seeking cold season public recreation. extending into Gibralter. The recent widespread public interest in cross country skiing has shown East: Elizabeth Park's winter resources to be of high value to this sport. The park's quiet extensive wooded areas, moderately rolling topography The Trenton channel shoreline of the Detroit River composes the Elizabeth Park- and convenient accessibility combine to produce an ideal location for east boundary looking over to Grosse Ile riverfront residences on that island cross country enthusiasts. community's -west shore. A unique feature in Elizabeth Park's winter program can be found at the West: pony concession where sleigh rides on the wooded park pony trails are offered to the public from November to March. This facility is particu- West Jefferson Avenue, a major north/south thoroughfare forms the west boun- larly attractive to all age groups throughout the year end holiday sea- dary of Elizabeth Park. A large mobile home development borders the east son . side of Jefferson opposite the entire length of the park site. Land use east of 15 M M M = = M M = = = = = = = = = = = = M the mobile home units is an extensive railroad right-of-way serving adjacent small boat access to picnic groves along the park canal. heavy industry The small boat launching/parking facility is operated totally by the county Current Park Operations and Facility Levels with present parking capacities acoommodating 90 cars and/or car-trailer spaces. Current ratew for user fees stand at one dollar per car with top car- As noted previously, the user patterns of Elizabeth Park since it's initial rier and two dollars per car with trailer. Access is from Grosse fie Parkway operations in 1919 have undergone marked changes. During its early years only with no access other than that for maintenance from the main park loop thousands of visitors consisting largely of family groups enjoyed this 162 acre road . public riverfront resource all seasons of the year. Picnicking, boating, ri- ver regattas, garden displays, spray pool and pony rides were but a few of the Present park operations include two services that are managed @y a conces- park's recreational offerings. This type of use prevailed until the mid 1950's sionare on a contract basis. These are the food refrectory and children's when changing lifestyles, the availability of expressways to northern state pony ranch. The food refrectory serving soft drinks and packaged fast food recreation lands, and increasing individual mobility particularly among young has been operational since the late 1930's. Sales during recent years, how- adults has resulted in a decline in the numbers of park visitors representing ever have shown a steady decline paralleling the drop in family group visi- family oriented groups. Within recent years these family groups have given tors. The majority of current park users bring their own supplies dispensed way to predominantly youth groups searching for public open space in which from their vehicles. to mingle with those of like ages and interests. These gatherings for the most part have minimal interest in the park's above remaining activities referring The pony ranch, in contrast to the food concession, continues to enjoy a re- to congregate intensively along the loop road margins to converse and ob- latively steady trade primarily during the summer season. The pony ranch"s serve others driving continuously around the park drive. During peak use popularity is evident today with 30 ponies providing buggy or sleigh rides periods such as a hot summer weekend or holiday this traffic pattern often be- from May to September and November to March. Some saddle rides are also comes unmanageable producing a backup out and on Elizabeth Park Drive at available to tethered ponies. Two goats are of interest to young children ,the park entrance. with many requests by visitors to view other types of form type animals should they become available. The pony concession, although operated privately, The heavy park use by young adults tends to discourage family groups who is owned by the county which furnishes the stable buggy storage space, ticket find the youths loud portable stereo set ups, littering, vandalism and domina- office and watering tanks. The rental lease between the operator and the tion of the park's roads abrasive. county is negotiated on a 3 year contract basis. County rental charges to the operator during the 1978 season were $ 1,300.00 for the summer followed by Former park facilities that once were heavily attended receive minimal interest winter charges of $ 300.00. the most noteable of these being the park's 1/2 mile waterfront. Much of this is due to the absence of post activities such as wel I maintained waterfront Other present park operations include group activities programmed through the walks, flower gardens, boat races, excursion boat stops and band concerts. Wayne County Parks office in Detroit. The equipment/shelter building and To date waterfront activity is confined to small boat launching, fishing and the West Jefferson lodge building are in consistant demand by county residents 16 for a variety of activities such as boy scout pancake suppers, wedding recep- tions, showers and club meetings. The lodge would, in all probability, be in even greater demand if it were not limited to a 75 person maximum capacity. During the past four years, over 300 permits were issued by the county for lodge group use alone. Of unique interest is a number of recent requests by wedding parties to con- duct ceremonies on the approaches of the two ornamental canal footbridges. Inquiries as to what prompted such requests produced an explanation that marriage partners previously "discovered" each other at this location. Annual county park maintenance budgets have been under pressure resulting in a noticeable decline of needed facility repairs, turf management, park surveillance and other improvements. For example, toilet buildings and park drive lights have been subject to severe vandalism with no replacements of the latter. Two toilet buildings have been totally shut down since repair costs exceed budget allocations. Park winter operations cover maintenance of use areas such as pony sleigh',- trails, speed and free skating rink ice maintenance and park drive/parking area snow removal. No snowmobiles or other ATV's are permitted in the park, however use by cross country ski patrons is encouraged. During the winter season food and beverage sales by the refrectory is not operational . All Elizabeth Park facilities presently available are operated on a dawn to dusk basis with the park hours being 5:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Throughout the 1970 seasons approximately 400,000 persons visited the park with 100, 000 of this total representing winter attendance. 17 RESIDENTIAL PARK Low b6dqe!51vmtl5ctlm&@ PROP@ Y I @)be To eoca ENTRY u LorAe Yv\o�ure Tree cbuer u 0 1 00 Thick bru-bh coucred 1; %reeA5 Parr, trorn 7401 C)/ 0 ID 'Waterfront Low ut)e qrecl 0 w Are 0 0 TOIL. Foot0ridge, AiTracTwe orc.@,e@ 1po y Ride Co 5TRUC-Tore 14ELTE 'iConcE5510N 15 uns1cl 0 ?oXKVAj CACLOMM@a Q/ lp \)ex@ qo?WcLr 110 Picnic Are 13 0 H AVY/ bbors 5cdgercA omd @r T 5v ed 0 i Vp6r tiq"51@jr- vw -Concessi if C) 'I @oncz,@@510A ho, HEAVY 0 PONY rvice/ BTABL TRAFFIC ROUTE lll:t @11111w Area lz 0 Terrace 00 Pro rams BMfldlng AL FOrMer TOtAQ5r 10 e - hci-@ L) Coy\cre@P-Te-v I@WiTed "ramA faftS 10 @IMCINERAXO 0 f err@ 5TO? c@ 5TOMC@ o tion Traffic Circula INA cv.WoMw; @,A .ML rieq Wi rec., 6or@(@o BALLF1 @JIBKATI Buildi 0 WARMI 0 @a5 @u ec WInter Sports W, (AL'ATer aOPOTT@5 oreA MwreE) 8@ E01) r ei@p E3 ci's ,TLkd,&A -@olr woxm 5%50v\ USE @HeaVy-W. Au C .4 it 0 B 4jr GROSS ILE PAR DETROIT EDISON Co. EXISTING CONDITIONS 0 200 400 100 300 Boo SITE ANALYSIS NORTH llllltl@m IN 11`1111111T ELIZABETH PARK - WAYNE COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT 18 master plan concept Research and analysis of Elizabeth Park's 60 year history combined with entrance enabling park personel to close the park when full capacities are study of existing resources and present operations provides a strong direc- reached during peak use periods. Planned roadways, drives and turn-a- tive toward physical improvements as recommended within this plan. It rounds total approximately 114,000 lineal feet. Entrance options and con- should be noted that county fiscal constraints and limited state/federal trol structures are discussed below under Building Structures. grant programs demand a practical design approach that offers a workable method for both short and long range action progra M*S. Walks, Trails and Terraces The following text discusses recommeded basic improvements incorporating A prime feature of the master plan is the design of a waterfront timber walk- the above rationale. way or promenade functioning as a connector to water facility improvements. This device should be constructed of rot proof timber material dimensioned to Roads and Parking a minimum of 20 foot in width to confortably accommodate strolling groups and to provide a visual impact in scale with the park site's resources. Observations of current Elizabeth Park user patterns plus comments recorded during public hearings clearly indicate a major community concern for park Present area hard surface walks are in poor condition and do not, for the most visitor vehicle control. The current practice of park user vehicle circulation park, relate to currently desired access routes. New walkways, as shown on continuously around the present loop road can be eliminated by utilizing two the plan total 9,450 lineal feet and should be designed as a combination pe- thirds of the existing drive for access only directing vehicles to a series of destrian-bikeway facility with a minimum width of at least six feet. specific parking areas. This approach would distribute pork users in an or- ganized manner directly to use areas keeping access drives open for emergen- Few alterations are shown for nature and pony trails other than extensions. In cy or ranger requirements. the case of the pony trail an addition leading to the lodge building footbridge is specified to function as a pick up point for hay rides. Parking for this group Expansion of the present boat launching parking lot from a 90 car capacity activity would be provided on the other side of the canal off of West Jefferson to 166 is recommended together with an entrance relocation further west on Avenue. Nature trail improvements and/or. extensions should be designed for Grosse lie Parkway to provide additional back up space. Widening lanes on winter use by cross country skiers. Grosse Ile Parkway are also recommended to alleviate traffic tie ups. The maincaccess road following a section of the present loop road is shown ter- Totally, an ultimate capacity of 1200 (including boat launching) parking minating at the equipment/shelter building with a 120 car parki ng/turn-a- round spaces could be provided through the ultimate implementation of this syttem. area. A hard surface plaza/terrace facility in connection with increased use An important component of this design is some type of control at the main of the building could become a principal park attraction and intensive use area. 19 Toll'Pooth V16-t r Center Equipment Building OPO . . . . . . . cl 0 PARK ENTRANCE = M M M M M = = = M Building Structures The lodge building west of the canal off of Jefferson presently serves as a pro- grammed group activities facility and remains popular for this purpose in spite Most of Elizabeth Park's building structures constructed during the park's of space limitations to 75 persons and almost non-existant kitchen facilities. early years of development exhibit an attractive exterior style of architec- The market for this type of operation is consistantly strong and adequate facili- tural design that could not be practically duplicated at current construction ties when available have proven within other park systems to be substantial costs. Brick and limestone walls with slate roofs and copper flashing carried revenue producers. the structures through the years with a minimum to no maintenance. The shelter/equipment building is the largest of this group and represents a solid The present lodge building location provides an optimum site for a full service enduring architectural appearance. Covering over 7000 square feet of floor reception hall as indicated on the master plan. Construction of such a facility space and opening onto a terrace overlooking the Detroit River, this building's would be compatible with other park operations accessible directly from Jeffer- external elegance is in sharp contrast to the plain appearing shelter space, son Avenue in an attractive seeting looking over the canal and linked to the public toilets and maintenance equipment garage within. main park area via the existing pedestrian bridge. Meeting rooms, kitchen facilities, dining area, outdoor terrace and a small boat landing could com- Plans recommend development of the shelter building to a riverfront pavilion. bine to produce an outstanding reception center within the downriver region. Within the overall park improvement design, recommended renovations in- A similar operation at Oakland County's Addison Oaks Park has been booked clude removal of garage operations and conversion to a park concession of- a year in advance since it opened during the late 60's. fering ski and tennis equipment rentals together with food and beverage ser- vices. Improvements to the shelter sector for group use combined with out- Of major importance within the framework of the master plan is a proposal for door terraces, romp walks to the waterfront and a water cascade feature are a visitors center or park office to be located at the main park entrance. Al- examples of public requests for facility additions. though two park entrance options are presently under consideration, the visi- tor center concept as a control point would apply in both cases. At the exist- Existing toilet building locations relate well to the access road/parking ing entrance on Elizabeth Park Drive the proposed center would include a .system as proposed, and these structures should be restored with updated in- park office, equipment garage, ranger office, information desk, public toi- terior fixtures while maintaining their original architectural appearance i n,!- lets, storage and space for establishing a toll or park entry fee collection sofar as possible. These recommendations are predicated on the assumption structure. This site location together with gates and a tutn around loop would vandal assaults will be reduced through improved control measures operating provide much needed control to public park entry and departure. on a revised access system. An alternate entrance plan shown on page calls for the removal of the pre- A small masonry shelter structure located to the northeast and presently board- sent vehicle entrance at Elizabeth Park Drive in favor of entry from Jefferson ed up serving as a storage area should be returned to its original function as Avenue bridging the canal and intersecting the main park access road approxi- a useable point of interest within a shaded picnic grove. The structure appears mately one half way between the lodge building and Slocum Avenue. Under to be in sound structural condition and like the park's other buildings, repre- this option the visitors center would be located immediately west of the bridge sents a period of architectural design deserving of preservation. crossing while positioning the equipment garage in the location shown on the 21 0 Water,,,@ascacle Plaza 0 Boardwalk Ramp 1A rr ryT f ACTIVITY/ CONCESSION BUILDING original entrance proposal . Under this arrangment the garage would operate however a fee for tie up could be charged. as a separate unit from the visitors structure. This alternate park entry propo- sal is based on regional plans to extend Jefferson north and bypass the City 2. Small Boat Docks of Trenton's business district on the west. Elizabeth Park as a regional park would then be linked directly to a regional traffic route accommodating the Docking for boats within the 16 to 20 foot range is also proposed at the majority of park visitors who traditionally arrive from the north. The recent north shore location and along the Edison Canal to the Elizabeth Park county traffic study shown in the Appendix provides additional detai Is regard- Bridge. 144 slips are shown on the plan which would provide short term ing each park entrance option. tie up points for boaters launching at the south park ramps or other river locations. Smaller building structures proposed within the park master plan include two additional toilet buildings and three shelters to be located in new picnic Additional small boat docks are proposed for the present boat launching groves recommended for the west park sector. A control building is also pro- facility to allow boaters to tie up immediately following launching. The posed for the winter sports area providing toilets, vending and storage to adjacent shady slopes below the pavilion building are planned for picnic serve winter skaters and a pitch putt golf facility proposed here for warm sea- grove development convenient to boat launches. son operations. 3. Amphi theater Facilities and Recreation Use Areas The former garden display site sloping toward the river and terminating to The Detroit River front should be among Elizabeth Park's major attractions, a large concrete terrace jutting into the water is proposed for redevelop- however a lack of water oriented facilities here has produced minimal.in- ment as a waterfront amphitheater. The terrace was originally constructed terest by the majority of current park visitors. Public open space on Michi- as a regatta reviewing platform and also functioned as a landing for river gan's natural waterfronts are high value resource in disturbing short supply excursion boats. The location could very well operate for docking once within highly urbanized locations such as the downriver communities. In an again while an amphitheater seating approximately 700 persons would effort toward developing the park's 1/2 mile of water frontage, the following create a unique waterfront feature just north of the pavilion building pro- proposals are recommended as elements of the master plan. posed for special activities and concessions. I . Large Boat Docks 4. Boardwalk 68 boat slips along the north shore would accommodate boats 22 to 45 A timber boardwalk 20 foot in width is proposed as a part of planned feet in length on a short term basis similar to dock operations at Metro- waterfront improvements to be constructed along the total 1/2 mile of politan Beach on Lake St. Clair near Mt. Clemens. Docks would func- river frontage. This improvement would be an effective means of attract- tion as a destination point for boaters to tie up and visit the park. No ing visitors to the river edge while providing pedestrian linkage to the services commonly associated with commercial marinas would be offered, north and south fishing pier is also planned for construction in connection 23 with boardwalk components. The central playfield regulation baseball field receives minimal use and should be altered for softball play, 5. Pony Concession The former spray pool within the south picnic area is no longer in opera- Master plan recommendations highly favor the continuance of the popu- tion, and is presently filled with sand. This location could effectively lar pony rides in the form of buggies, sleighs and saddle riding on the be converted to an attractive childrens play area by installing a combi- circle track. Present pony concession operations, however, would be nation of interesting climbing devices. There is a unique variety of greatly improved with the foliowing alterations. climbers currently on the market that would be welcomed by youngsters visiting the picnic areas with their parents. a. Relocate pony concession structures as shown on plan next to pro- posed parking lot. This includes the rail where ponies are current- Two totally new picnic areas are shown on the plan for development in ly tethered in the hot sun. A new rail location should be in the the southwest and northwest park sectors. These areas are heavily wooded shade. and have excellent potential for this use. Parking lots off of the main access road are also proposed for these additions together with shelters b. Clean up and improve the stable building area for public viewing. and toilet buildings. Develop a childrens animal exhibit structure and blacksmith's shop near the stable building. 7. Winter Sports c. Realign the north segment of the pony trail to relate to proposed The park's winter sports activities presently include pony sleigh rides, parking lot and childrens animal exhibit. cross country skiing, free skating and speed skating. The latter activity enjoys a large measure of interest within the region justifying the con- 6. Picnic Areas tinuance of this popular facility. The master plan shows the relocation of the speed skating oval to a site immediately west of the boat launching The recommended removal of the northeast segment of the loop road parking with the concept of utilizing this parking area during its off sea- develops and improved relationship between the northeast picnic area, son . The new oval track would be a standard 6 lap design requiring a central playfield, and the south picnic area. This system would no lon-- 190 by 390 foot oval. ger be bisected by a traffic carrier and users would be conveniently distributed from proposed parking areas. The present inoperative toi- An additional proposal for improved Elizabeth Park winter sports is the let building to the northeast should be renovated since its location is construction of a toboggan run structure with runs starting at the boat ideal with regard to proposed parking and the rejuvenation of this de- launch parking and extending due west for 650 feet turning north and sirable area for picnicking. This approach also applies to the nearby outrunning along the Edison Canal for a total of 1000 feet. Due to the boarded up masonry shelter. predominantly level terrain of the downriver region, no natural slopes 24 are available for tobogganing. Structures such as this have experienced heavy use in other locations and have proven to be desirable revenue producers. The present winter sports area would retain its free skating rink providing approximately 19 thousand square feet of natural ice surface with ample parking. 8. Golf and Archery The existing winter sports area in the extreme southwest corner of the park is vacant throughout warm seasons and offers an opportunity to develop additional park facilities on a multiple use basis. Covering approximately 5 acres the area is planned for the installation of a pitch and putt golf and an archery range facility to be operated either by county personnel or on a concession basis. A control building structure is also proposed pro- viding public toilets, vending machines room and equipment storage. During the winter the building would serve skaters with warm up quarters. 9. General During the programming of the above improvements consideration should be given to general park operational needs such as lighting, signs, gates and the development of an overall maintenance program. 25 Park Entrance Marina L---j PLANTING BUFFER Visitor Center W. X. ALTERNATE PARK ENTRANCE i Bicycle Con 0 41 0 m LT p w E f -ibnmen > Ai@,ea 2 -AIVIPHITHEA@ OLAYFiELD j E f f@l o r@i -r@i #-4@uirA L Reception w Hall Activity Co 4R@ Rill Irv 0 0 Sport Activity,@ Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... i .......... N. 00 Parkin Picnic MTJFI U30 "GROSS ILE PARKWAY rll,@NEW BOAT LAUNCH ENTANCE 200 400 r-- L---- 100 300 500 SCHEMATIC PLAN NORTH 0 .. -- ELIZABETH PARK WAYNE COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT 26 (0orr TvvA) 1'el L= K PARK ENTRANCE x Fliar Moxtr4A Screen Fu MARINA @j Ft le VISITOR CENTER L= (jwef5 EQUIPMENT BLOG.- q (U) r.( CONCEBBION BUILDING P@c Ar -tv PC i i I/ 9ZlDxkW'll roe qf JL: -7 I I@JVIAONMENTA CENTER D AMPHITHEATE MW AC@UiTiee. Rrk*@A@I \k IL RECEPTION PL, HALL TE C Ij ACTIVITY CONCESI - C n! re 4@ eoo.T cbc. 68 t; ch Picn I Ard CmTrOQ DWWW,4@ OUTIOOK a"d ne4%", Rer BOAT LAUNCH GROSS ILE PARKWAY 0 200 -400 .100 rmoo MASTER PLAN NORTH ... L. I - ELIZABETH PARK wAYNE COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION PARKB & RECREATION OEPARTMENT 27 M@ m m zm 0 1 42 c F-4 CIM m JEFFEpoo -4velytim 2-1- 4 -to cl 0 IEII,.bt;h park Drive UM A@ di. mo DETROIT z sn rm a to m Z 2 m 0 % z Ll % m to z P nic, r tL ch P aa(.oK a,,,d rw@" Per 0( T%L" 00 r, e. sp.d R.-P, BOAT LAUNCH GROSS ILE PARKWAY 0 1200 400 L 300 500 ALTERNATE ENTRANCE STUDY NORTH ..-S .. M- ELIZABETH PARK WAYNE COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT 28 priorities and general cost estimate The@'fifteen categories listed below represent improvement projects as specified IMPROVEMENT PROJECT GENERAL ESTIMATE within the text of the Elizabeth Park Master Plan. Projects are listed in order of priorities with items I through 5 representing a suggested short term (1 to 5 5. Pedestrian-bike.way system $ 150,000 years) redevelopment program, and items 6 through 15 considered as long range (20 to 25 years) 6. Pony concession improvements 220,000 a . Concession structure relocation and north trail alternations IMPROVEMENT PROJECT GENERAL ESTIMATE b. Construction of clildrens animal exhibit and blacksmith's shop 1. Utilities, roads and parking lot construction $ 580,000 7. New picnic area development 150,000 2. Waterfront facilities, phase one 650,000 a. Clearing a. Small boat launching site dock additions b. Construction of one toilet building and b. Fishing pier three shelter structures c. Shoreline improvements and boardwalk construction 8. Visitor.'s center, phase two 2,500,000 a. Construction of park office as addition to 3. Visitor's center construction, phase one 350,000 equipment garage completed under phase a. Maintenance equipment garage and tem- one porary park office b. Tol I booth b Entrance control structures 9. Winter sports development for al I season use 2251000 4. Existing park building improvements 11200,000 a. Pitch and putt golf facility a. Toilet building repairs b. Archery range b. Equipment/shelter building conversion c. Control building construction to activities and concession pavilion d. Existing parking lot improvements plaza construction c. Conversion of concession building to 10. Amphitheater construction 200,000 group shelter and/or a bicycle rental facility 11. Small and large boat dock construction 3,000,000 29 IMPROVEMENT PROJECT G EN ERAL ESTI MAT E 12. Relocation of six lap spped skating rink and support building $ 200.1000 13. Construction of toboggan slide struc- ture 250,000 14. Reception hall construction and canal boat landing 31500.000 15. Wiscellaneous minor structures; signs, lighting, landscaping, etc. 350,000 TOTAL .......................................... $ 1315251000 Note: The above total should be increased by a minimum factor of 10% per year to allow for prevailing inflationary trends. 30 funding methods Prevailing county budget constraints make it mandatory that the Elizabeth development facilities to assist the nation's sluggish construction industry. Park improvements as recommended within the master plan be programmed for application to applicable state and/or federal matching grant programs. Revenue Sharing - Direct unconditional fiscal assistance to local governments. FEDERAL FUNDING PROGRAMS Urban Park and Recreation Recovery Act of 1978; Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service, U.S. Department of the Interior - Grants to aid econo- The programs listed here are of specific value to addressing various aspects mically hard-pressed cities, counties and their neighborhoods in rehabilitating of waterfront recreation development. The major focus of these programs their existing parks and recreation systems. A 80-20 local match program. A are not directed specifically to waterfront recreation. 85-15 state match program. The Housing and Community Development Act of 1974; Community Deve- STATE FUNDING lopment and Block Grant Program, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development - a major program to aid cities in improving low and moderate Funds for capital improvements may be obtained directly from direct alloca- income areas by acquisition and development of public works. A 80-20 tions of the State's Fiscal Budget from department and divisions listed below. match program. Department of Natural Resources Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965; Heritage Conservation and Fisheries Division Recreation Services Division Recreation Service, U.S. Department of Interior - a program to provide funds Forestry DiWsion Resource Recovery Division for acquisition of land and water areas and development of facilities for pub- Land Resource Programs Water Quality Division lic outdoor recreation. Acquisition of land and water may include new areas Parks Division Waterways Division or additions to existing parks. A 50-50 match program. Krammer Trust Fund - Grants.al located for acquisition of land for recreational Federal Aid Highway Act of 1976; Federal Aid Highway Program and the purposes from a fund generated by revenues collected for oil exploration, dril- Transportation Improvement Progtom, U.S. Department of Transportation - ling and foresting on state lands. grants for the acquisition development, improvement and repair of transpor- tation facilities, including bikeways, walkways, and small boat access sites. PRI VAT E Public Works Grant Program of 1961; The Economic Development Administral"' Sources bf funds are available through private trust foundations such as; The ti'on, U.S. Department of Commerce - grants and loans for public works and Kresge Mott and Ford Foundations, private organizations and associations such as League of American Wheelmen, Inc., American Power Boat Association, etc. 31 appendix ELIZABETH PARK TRAFFIC ACCESS STUDY Introduction 3. This study assumes that the roadways, parking areas, and toll collection plazas (if any) within the redeveloped park will provide sufficient ca- This study evaluates'the following three alternative locations for a future pacity to prevent entering park traffic from queuing back onto the pub- main entrance to Elizabeth Park on the basis of traffic capacity, operations lic road system. This is a critically important consideration and is ap- and safety: plicable regardless of the location of the future park entrance. A. Existing Park Entrance - existing main entrance to the park via 4. Recreation lodge traffic will continue to be served by a separate drive- Elizabeth Park Drive. way to West Jefferson. B. Proposed West Jefferson Entrance - proposed new park entrance to 5. Marina traffic will continue to be served by a separate driveway unless be located on West Jefferson Avenue between Slocum Street and the future main park entrance is located on Grosse lie Parkway. If Grosse lie Parkway. this occurs, the park and marina entrance/exit will be combined. C. Proposed Grosse Ile Parkway Entrance - proposed new park entrance 6. This study assumes that a new north-south arterial road by-passing the to be located on Grosse Ile Parkway about 1000 to 1500 feet east City of Trenton CBD may be constructed at some time in the future. A of West Jefferson Avenue. This entrance would also serve park ma- possible south terminus of this by-pass route is the intersection of West rina traffic. Jefferson Avenue and Fifth Street. Assumptions: Arterial Road Access: I . The redevelopment of Elizabeth Parkway generate an increase in vehicu- Elizabeth Park is enveloped by West Jefferson Avenue on the north and west lar traffic to and from the park. and Grosse I I e Parkway on the south. Future vehi cul ar access to the park will involve one or both of these arterial roads. Both roads are currently 2. Due to the developed character of area land use, significant future in- carrying moderate traffic volume ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 vehicles per creases in non-park traffic are not anticipated. day and, in general, are operating reasonably well. 32 Traffic congestion and operational difficulties are currently experienced on betterments, such as revised signal timing, improved information signing West Jefferson Avenue north of Elizabeth Park Drive through the City of and on-street parking removal, might be beneficial . Of direct and con- Trenton CBD. These problems are a direct result of the continued existence siderable benefit to park and non-park traffic would be the elimination of on-street angle parking on West Jefferson which seriously compromises of on-street angle parking along West Jefferson Avenue north of the park. the capacity, safety and operating characteristics of an otherwise adequate roadway. The signalized intersection of West Jefferson Avenue, Elizabeth Park Drive and Walnut Street has sufficient approach capacity to handle the Some peak hour congestion also occurs at the signalized intersections of West projected traffic increases generated by expanded park usage and normal Jefferson Avenue with Grosse lie Parkway and Van Horn Road. This conges- traffic growth. A three-phase sigpal operation could be considered to tion is caused by large volumes of turning traffic at both intersections whichl facilitate future traffic movement. in turn, are partially a result of the 400 foot offset between the Grosse lie Parkway and Van Horn Road alignments. If the amount of traffic using Slocum Street for park access becomes a nuisance to local residents, Slocum Street could be closed to vehicular Both of the above-described problems are correctible operational deficiencies traffic at Elizabeth Park Drive. and are not primarily a result of unusually high traffic volumes. B. WEST JEFFERSON ENTRANCE (Proposed) Evaluation of Alternatives: A proposed alternative location for a new main entrance to Elizabeth A. EXISTING PARK ENTRANCE Park is somewhere along West Jefferson Avenue between Slocum Street and the recreation lodge facility. West Jefferson Avenue in this*area The existing main entrance to Elizabeth Park is located on Elizabeth is 40 foot wide with 6 to 8 foot shoulders and operates as a four-lan6 Park Drive, a county local road, at the bridge over the Edison Canal. roadway. The existing road right-of-way is 66 feet wide. The acquisi- Principal access to the park is via West Jefferson Avenue, a county tion of additional right-of-way on the west side does not appear feasible primary road, which intersects Elizabeth Park Drive approximately 700 due to the proximity of existing development. This section of West feet north of the park entrance. Secondary access to the park is pro- Jefferson Avenue carries about 13,000 vehicles per day. vided by Slocum Street, a city major street, which intersectss Elizabeth Park Drive immediately north of the park entrance. In order to provide a new park entrance at this location, the following improvements to West Jefferson Avenue would be required: The existing park access system, as outlined above, has sufficient excess highway capacity and operational flexibility to adequately accommodate 1) Reconstruct and widen the existing West Jefferson Avenue pavement the projected future traffic to Elizabeth Park without significant adverse at the new park entrance to provide a separate lone for southbound impacts to through traffic movement or to local traffic circulation. AAa- vehicles turning left into the park while maintaining two through jor road improvements would not be required although selected operational traffic lanes in each direction. The approximate length of the re- 33 quired widening, including topers, is 800 feet. The necessary ad- would add 7,000 to 10,000 vehicles per day to the existing traffic. To ditional road right-of-way will be obtained from the park. adequately accommodate this increased traffic, the following major road and bridge improvements would be required: 2) Install a traffic signal at the park entrance road intersection with West Jefferson Avenue. Signal control is required to accommodate 1) Reconstruct and widen Grosse I I e Parkway to 48 feet from West Jef- the projected volume of future park traffic. ferson Avenue to the park entrance. An additional 12 foot right turn lane should be provided on westbound Grosse lie Parkway at The preliminary estimated cost for these improvements, exclusive of right- West Jefferson. This project would necessitate widening or recon- of-way, is $ 250,000. This does not include the cost of a new park en- structing the bridge at the Edison Canal . trance roadway or new Edison Canal bridge. 2) Reconstruct and widen West Jefferson Avenue to 60 feet through the With the above cited improvements, the location of the main park en- Grosse lie Parkway and Van Horn Road intersections. This is neces- trance on West Jefferson Avenue is, from a traffic standpoint, accepta- sary to provide sufficient turning lanes for the increased traffic. Ad- ble. There,will be, however, some adverse traffic impacts. The imposi- ditional right-of-way would be required. tion of a new traffic signal on this section of road will effect delay and disruption to through traffic and will increase accident potential. Parti- 3) Install a traffic signal at the park entrance road intersection with cularly hazardous, even with signal control, will be the conflict between Grosse lie Parkway. northbound through traffic and the expected high volume of southbound traffic turning left into the park entrance. The preliminary estimated cost for these improvements, excluding right- of-way costs is $ 1,250,000, This does not include the costs of needed C. GROSSE ILE PARKWAY ENTRANCE (Proposed) road improvements within the park proper. Another proposed alternative location for the main Elizabeth Park en- The location of the main park entrance on Grossedle Parkway would have trance is on Grosse Ile Parkway about 1000 to 1500 feet east of West several significant negative aspects with respect to traffic movement. Jefferson Avenue. The entrance would also serve park marina traffic. Through traffic on Grosse lie Parkway would be subject to increased de- Grosse I I e Parkway at this I ocati on i s 36 feet wide wi th 6 to 8 foot lay and accident potential . Traffic operations at the West Jefferson Ave- shoulders. Road right-of-way is 200 feet. There is an existing bridge nue intersections with Grosse Ile Parkway and Van Horn Road would Le on Grosse lie Parkway at the Edison Canal. The bridge roadway is 36 complicated by the greatly increased volumes of turning traffic. The ma- feet wide. Existing traffic volumes average 14,000 vehicles per day. jority of park users would have to travel farther to access the park. Grosse lie Parkway is the only public road access to Grosse Ile Town- ship. Trenton CBD By-Pass Route: The location of the main Elizabeth Park entrance on Grosse Ile Parkway Some consideration is currently being given to the development of a new 34 arterial road which would by-pass the City of Trenton CBD. The specific lo- cation of the proposed by-pass route has not yet been determined. All of the more likely candidate alignments for the proposed by-pass route, if constructed, would not significantly affect access to Elizabeth Park regard- less of the park entrance location. Park access via the existing park entrance on Elizabeth Park Drive may even improve since through traffic volumes on West Jefferson Avenue would be reduced. Conversely, a park entrance loca- tion on West Jefferson Avenue may be somewhat adversely affected if the by- pass generated increased traffic at that location. Conclusions and Recommendation: 1. The projected future park traffic volumes can be acceptably accommodated at any of the proposed park entrance locations. Major road improvements would be required for a West Jefferson Avneue entrance or Grosse Ile Park- way entrance. 2. The proposed Trenton CBD by-pass route would not significantly affect ac- cess to Elizabeth Park regardless of the park entrance locatiom@ 3. From the standpoint of traffic capacity, operations and safety, the existing park entrance on Elizabeth Park Drive is the preferred and recommended location for the futLoe park entrance. Prepared By: The Wayne County Road Commission August 31, 1979 35 1-5TATEMENT OF DISMAISEMENTS FOR IMPROVE.NIENTS AT ELIZAlwTH PAnK. F11O.N1 DLCEMBER 1, 1919 TO SEPTEMBER 1, 1923. 1920 1920 1921 1921 1922 1922 1923 J)i.,1923 Appropria- Di,borsed Appropria- Dishurse:1 Appropria- Disbursel Appropria- bur,nd tion Lion Lion Lion $1.000.00 ...... S1,000.00 ....... $22.000.00 ......... ......... ......... A. 2 and 4. Salaries-Teinporar@ .... ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... $ 1.0,7 t9.75 $20.000.00 $12.310.16 B.-Contractual Services. B. I Transportation of Persons ..... ....... ...... ....... 0. 12 ......... ....... 100.00 .84 B. 2 Transportation of Things . . . . ... .... ...... ....... 22.00 ......... 45.97) 100.00 178.17 B. 3 Subsistence and Sup. of Persons ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... 10.70 125.00 112.50 B. .1 Hire of Motor Vehicles ....... ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... 38.40 100.00 133.83 B. 6,AL Postagt ...................... ....... ...... ....... ....... ........ ! ......... 50.00 ......... B. 6B Telephone ................... ....... $1-1.35 ....... 41.04 ......... 21.38 250.00 36.21 B. 8 Advertising ................. ....... ...... ....... 105.00 ......... 385.33 150.00 Y-1. i a B. 9 Public Utility Service ......... ....... 2.85 ....... 40.36 ...... 91.89 3,500.00 575.60 B. 10 Repairs to Equipment ........ ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... 1.60 ......... ......... B. 11 Repairs on Improvements ..... ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... *95,448.85 500.00 442.00 B. I Lk Improvements to Building .... ....... ...... ....... 6,170.03 ......... ......... ......... ......... B. 12 Laundry, fee and Towel Service ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... ... ..... 250.00 B. 13 Other Services ............... ....... 335.50 ....... 339.92 ......... 184.90 100.00 139.00 C-Niaterials and Supplies. C. 1. Non-Metallic and Mineral Pro- ducts ..................... ....... ...... ....... 5.70 ......... 17.13 10.00 449.40 C. 2 Fuel ........................ ....... ... . ......... 500.00 ......... ... ....... C. 6 Metal Products .............. ....... _14.10 ....... ....... ......... 182.22 550.00 4,079.39 C. 7 Household Utensil ............ ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... ......... 100.00 .... .... 2 C. 8 Lumber ..................... ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... 299.47* 900.00 1 ,'27.90 @3 C. 9 Paper and Paper Product ..... ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... ......... 250.00 @69.50 `@ C. 10 Fibre and Felt Products ...... ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... ......... 250.00 ......... It C. 11 Paint% and Painters' Supplies .. ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... 133.97 200.00 152.66 C. 12 Stationery and Office Supplies . ....... ...... ....... 2.74 ......... 1.56 50.00 14.50 C. 13 Dry Goods and Notions ...... ........ ...... ....... ....... ........ ......... 200.00 ......... C. 16 Rubber and Rubber Axticles .... ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... 19.29 350.00 61.74 C. 17 Electrical and Lighting Supplies ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... ......... 150.00 28.71 C. 18 Cleansers and Polishes, etc ..... ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... . 7.37 200.00 44.88 Cn C. 19 Instruments for Cleaning ...... ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... 24.28 50.00 ......... C. 21 Miscellaneous ............... ....... 5.00 ....... ....... ......... 394.88 200.00 160.67 C. 23 Trees, Shrubs, Seeds, etc ...... ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... ......... 5,000.00 21.15 01 D-Sundry Charges. 400.00 ....... 54.08 ......... ......... 300.00 300.00 D. 4 Insurance ................... ....... F-Equipment. F. I Office and Institutional Furniture 27.30 ......... 333.69 2,500.00 2,157.17 and Furnishings ........... ....... ...... ....... G-Land, Buildings and Structures. 15,175.00 12225.26 **G. 2 B. Comfort Station ........... ....... ...... ....... ....... .... 9,000.00 12:621.00 M. C. R. R.. ....... ...... ....... ....... ... ..... tG. 3 A. Trestle over ffG. 3 B. Installation of Lighting Sys- ......... ......... 22,389.43 12,389.43 tem .................... ....... ...... ....... .. 20,000.00 21,744.60 tG. 3 C. Installation. Water System .. ....... ...... ....... ...... ......... $$G. 3J). 1. Dock; 2 Bathing Beach; 1. .92,000.00 49,338.35 3. Sea Wall and Walk .... ....... ...... ....... ....... ......... ... --* ') ......... ...... -5,000.00 G. 3 E. Bridges over Canal ......... ....... ...... ....... ....... ..... *... ..... G. 4 B. Dredging Canal and Reclaim- ...... 1)5,000.00 14,929.39 0 ing Land ................. ....... ...... ....... ....... 10,000.00 7,717.13 -3 G. 4 D. Huron River Park ......... ....... ...... ....... ....... - ...... *...... G. 4 Excavation and Grading Eliz- ..... 102,583.91 ........... ......... abeth Park Driveway ..... ....... ...... ....... ....... _t 3 89 $1,000.00 $831.80 $1,000.00 $6,809-59 $220,000.00 $210,976.52 $25.1,5-19.43 $154,45 Contract-C *Road ...................... $7 4,149.84 ooper-Weidenian Co. Pavilion .................... 19,966.27 t Contract-Agreement M. C. R. R. Canal ...................... 1,107.74 tf Contract-Agreement Edison Co. Hydrants .................. 225.00 Contract-Coalsaet Bros. Contract-Dunbar-SuBivan Dredging Co. $95,448.85 Contract-W. E. Lermane Co. NOAA COASI.L SERVICE 3 6668 14111 53 AAA