Glenlord Beach Park development plan and site design Lincoln Township, Michigan

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GLENLORD BEACH PARK

DEVELOPMENT PLAN
AND
SITE DESIGNi MICHIGAN
OCZM GRANT #NA-80-AA-li-CZ157
SUBTASK qD q .
LINCOLN TOWli4SHIP,'MICHIGAN

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SB PREPARE D BY: ABONMARCHE CONS -ULTANTS, INC.
485
156 95 WEST MAIN STREET
G54 BENTON HARBOR, MI 49022
1982 (616) 927- 2295
JULY. 1982

ABONMARCHE CONSULTANTS INC.

95W. MAIN STREET - BENTON HARBOR, MICHlGAN 49022 PHONE: (616)927-2295

July 15, 1982

Lincoln Township Parks Commission
Township Hall
2055 W. John Beers Road
Stevensville, Michigan 49127

Ladies and Gentlemen;

It is with pleasure that we transmit herewith our final report on
the "Glenlord Beach Park Development Plan and Site Design. "

This report provides, we believe, a realistic assessment of the
opportunities for providing a successful beach park development.
Your input has ensured that the proposed development meets the
community's needs in a realistic manner.

We trust our work and this report reflect the goals you hold for
Glenlord Beach Park. We've enjoyed the excellent cooperation
you have given in this study, and appreciate the opportunity to
be of service.

Very truly yours,

ABONMARCHE CONSULTANTS, INC.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE NOAA
COASTAL SERVICES CENTER
Ronald E. Schults, P.E. 2234 SOUTH HOBSON AVENUE
Manager CHARLESTON, SC 29405-2413

RES/f

Property of CSC Library

Planning/Engineering/Energy Conservation /Surveying/Management Consultants

LINCOLN[ TOWNSHIP.

BERRIEN COUNTY
2055 W'John Been, R'd.
P0. DRAIVER L
TELEPI IONE 616 429LI589
SMVENSVIL-LE, MICHIGAN 49127

July 20v 1982
Mr. Chris*A. Shafer, Chief
Great Lakes Shorelands Section
Land Resources Programs Division
Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Bo'x 30028
Lansingv Michigan 48909

Dear Mr. Shafer;

Please be advised that the Lincoln Township Parks Commission, at a
regular meeting on July 6. 1982 accepted and adopted the Glenlord
Beach Park Development Plan and Site Design as prepared by Abonmarche
Consultants, Inc, At this meeting,, the Parks Commission passed.a
resolution selecting Phase I of this plan as proposed in the study
for implementation in fiscal yea-r- 1982 - 83.

The Lincoln Township Parks-Commission wishes to express its gratitude
to you and your staff for your cooperation and assistance in making
this project possible. We look forward to working with you in
taking this project from a plan to creating a fine shoreland
recreational facility.
Thank you for yo'ur'assistance,

Sincerely,

Doris Florian, Chairman
Lincoln Township Parks Commission

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR THIS PROJECT

WAS PROVIDED BY THE

COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT

ADMINISTERED BY THE OFFICE OF

COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENTj

NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION

'AND

THE MICHIGAN,COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

ADMINISTERED BY THE

DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES.$

DIVISION OF LAND RESOURCE PROGRAMS

AND

LINCOLN TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN

GLENLORD BEACH PARK

DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND SITE DESIGN

LINCOLN TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN

TABLE 017 CONTENTS

Section

INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS OF EXISTING SITE

CONDITIONS 1.0

EVALUATION OF SHORELINE AND BLUFF EROSION 2.0

ANALYSIS OF RECREATION POT' ENTIAL OF PARK SITE 3.0

SITE DESIGN BACKGROUND AND ALTERNATIVES 4.0

IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY 5.0

1.0 INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS* OF EXISTING SITE CHARACTERISTICS

1.1 LOCATION

Glenlord Beach Park is a 1.96 acre parcel located on Lake
Michigan in Section 16 of Lincoln Township. The 1.96 acres'
are supplemented by an adjacent 66' road right-oi-way re-.
stricted to park use by the Berri en County Road Commission.
The park is located at the western terminus of Glenlord
Road. The township acquired the property in 1953.

The property provides 198 feet of Lake Michigan beach
frontage backed by a 35-45' bluff. Historically, the,
beach and bluff area have sustained some serious-erosion
problems present in times of high lake water and severe

storms.

Glenlord Beach Park is one of six Lake Michigan beaches in
the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The metropolitan area
contains approximately '90,000 people. Since there are re-
latively few beaches available to serve the resident popu-
lation as well as tourists, Glenlord Park experiences heavy
use. Glenlord Park's nearness to major roads provides a
uniaue opportunity for the township to promote Glenlord
Beach Park as a major Twin City tourist attraction. The re-
gional and local location of the park is shown on figure
no. 1 on page 3. An Existing Conditions Plan of the Glen-
lord Beach Park is shown on figure no. 2 on page 4.

1.2 VEGETATION AND WILDLIFE

Much of the park has been continually disturbed by mankind
while enjoying the recreational qualities of the Lake
Michigan shoreline. All portions of the park have been
disturbed, and except for the heavy vegetative cover in the
southern portion of the bluff area, vegetation has been
taken from its natural state for some active recreational
or motor transportation use.

1.2 VEGETATION ANDVILDLIFE (Cont'd)

Due to the unrestricted. automobile access to the majority
of upland, park area, little plant growth, other than mature
trees, is evident. Ped.estrian traffic along the bluff face
and walkway has largely eliminated much of the vegetation
which could stabilize the erosible nature of the soils.

1.3 SOILS

The park contains three. soil types. The shoreline is
classified as. beach sand; the bluff area as udorthents
and udipsamments of 18-19% slope and the majority of the
park as oakville fine sand with,0-6% slope. These soil
types are characterized as well-drained sandy soils with
fair potential for recreational and landscaping purposes.

Trees suitable for such well-drained sandy soils include,
Red Pine, Eastern White Pine, Jack Pine, Norway Spruce,
Black Spruce, and Black Cherry. For hedges and windbreaks,
Tatarian Honey-suckle, A.utumn-Olive, and Lilacs make excel-
lent choices for soil compatability.

The sandy soils pose slight to severe difficulties for con-
structing picnic, playground, or other active play areas.
There are als.o some moderate constraints for normal lawn
and landscaping due to the droughty nature of the soil.

1.4 TOPOGRAPHY

The upland topography ranges from 634' at the south entrance
corner, sloping northwesterly to a bluff edge el:evation of
about 620 feet. The gentle slope provides a natural path
for surface drainage throughout the length of the site. The
topography also minimizes the time and costs for construction
of road and parking areas.

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l..4 TOPOGRAPHY (Cont'd)

The bluff is the dominant topographic feature of the park.
The bluff rises about 35-45' from the beach and provides
an excellent view while posing some serious erosion and
safety problems. The bluff will be dealt with in more
specific detail in terms of stabilIzing the bluff from
erosion while providing a people oriented place to ob-
serve the scenic vista*. Figure no. 2 on page 4 shows the
existing condition and topography of the park.

1.5 HYDROLOGY

Surface dra.inage is collected at the northwest corner of
the park in.a storm sewer drainage pipe. This pipe con-
tinues off-site to Lake Michigan.. Surface run-off of
storm water which can cause severe erosion problems, does
not seem to be a problem except on the northerly portions
of the bluff area.

The park property' is covered under the State of Michigan
.Coastal Zone Management Act. This law established certain
minimum building restrictions for shoreline property sus-
ceptible to erosion. It also prohibits certain structures
within that portion of the sho reline which potentially can
be eroded away in the ensuing 20 years. State studies have
determined a bluff line set back of 85'for the park pro-
perty. An additional 30' is recommended as a safety measure.
All construction within this zone will require prior approval
of the State-Department of Natural Resources,' Division of
Land Resources Programs. The preliminary design plan will
take into account all DIRR requirements and be prepared ac-
cordingly.

1.6 AESTHETICS

The aesthetics of two "scenes" can be viewed from within
the park. The first is the aesthetics or "scenes" of the
park from various positions within the park. The second is
the aesthetics or "scenes" viewed off-site from points with-
im the park.

1.6 AESTHETICS (Cont'd)

As one enters the beach, the scene is not the most pleasing.
The overuse of the park, unregulated use of vehicles, and
vandalism has made the facility less than a pleasing in-
vitation to the park. It is evident to even the most
casual user, that somemaintenance and selective improve-
ments are required to improve the visual appeal of the park.

Looking off-site provides another visual impression. Since
the park is surrounded by a residential neighborhood, it
requires' some treatment to screen and isolate the park from
the residents. Recommendations for these purposes are in-
corporated in the design plans.

The*beach, without question, provides the most aesthetic
view. The scene of a-sunset on Lake Michigan is breathtaking.
Summer beach play is also a refreshing visual pleasure. To
enhance these aesthetics, it will be nec-essar-y to provide some
type of "people place", such as; a bluff top platform or
pavilion.

1.7 HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE

Glenlord Beach Park has almost a 30 year history of local
significance, even though it is not considered significant in
terms of state or national criteria. Purchased by the Town-
ship in 1953 from the Lippi Family, the park has a-long history
of providing Lake Michigan access for township residents,
tourists, and others from surrounding communities. Additionally,
a 0.10 acre parcel on the northerly park property line was
donated to Lincoln Township by James and Mary Ball.

1.8 EXISTING PARK DEVELOPMENT

There is currently a moderate level of development which con-
sumes about 80% of the available land area. This development
does not fully utilize the potentials of the site and in some

1.8 EXISTING PARK DEVELOPMENT (Cont'd)

cases is causing misuse or underuse of the beach.

A majority of the park is devoted to the gravel access
road and parking area. The township has expanded and
periodically regravelled the road.and parking area as
traffic and space needs have required.

In the central area along the northern boundary, a picnic
area has been constructed. The picnic area is separated
from the parking area by wooden posts and contains two
concrete slabs, (a field inspection on April 29, found
-these slabs.removed), cooking grills, and picnic tables.
The western border of the picnic area is a 12' concrete
retaining wall which also incorporates a'stormTeater drain-
age pipe.'

For beach access, a 3' wide stairway (in need of repair)
is located in the northwestern corner near the northern
park boundary. This location causes some problems with
beach users,as-it quays outward from the s*tairway and in-
trudes- onto adjacent property. This situation is docu-
mented by the study of social scientists, which'have ob-
served human behavior in public places. This study has
documented the tendency of people to move outward in nearly
equal directions from a central entrance. Relocation of
the stairway to a more centralized location will tend to
channel people in a, pattern more appropriate to the size
of the parcel. This will limit the natural tendency'for
trespassing by beach users over the northern park boundary.

1.9 *INPACT ON SURROUNDING DEVELOPMENT

The park has several impacts on surrounding properties.
The major impact is people. -- The volume of people using
the park and their means of access via the automobile, litter,

1.9 IMPACT ON SURROUNDING DEVELOPMENT (Cont'd)

noise, dust, and vandal-ism are all symptoms of people pro-
blems associated with recreation facilities of this nature.

While supervision through a park ranger can control this
to a limited extend, -people Droblems cannot be completely
controlled. Considered in the park plan will be adequate
vegetative buffers, and access controls required to mitigate
these problems. The park designs take into account reason-
able methods to minimize negative influences on surrounding
properties and for controlling access to the park.

1.10 SUMMARY

Glenlord Beach Park offers many assets for providing a truly
unique beach facility. Its location can, if chosen by the
township, provide a tourist attraction which can generate
user fees. Many munici. 'palities already levy user fees to
defray development and-maintenance costs.

The present level of use has exceeded the present capacity
of the entrance and parking area. The location of the stair-
way to the beach has invited unknowing users onto adjacent
private property..

Droughty soils suitable to only the most hearty ve getation
has eliminated almost all ground cover from the parking,
road, and bluff roadways. Absence of screening of the park
property with vegetation, has not isolated the park from
surrounding property.

The inability to secure the entranceway has contributed to
vandalism, litter problems, and other nonauthorized use of
the park.

Many of these issues can be addressed through design changes
of the park facilities. The site designs will evaluate op-
tions and make recommendations to mitigate the above issues.

2.0 EVALUATION OF SHORELINE AND BLUFF EROSION.

2.1 EROSION DUE TO WAVE ATTACK

The Glenlord Beach Park is located in an area with rela-
tively small vegetated dunes. The dunes rise about 40
feet above lake level. Further north of the park exten-
sive bluffs of glacial drift exist up to heights of 100
feet, while further south the dunes are similar in nature
to those at the park. In general, the bluff erosion due
to wave attack is very serious along a stretch of at least
6 miles south of the breakwaters protecting the Benton
Ha rbor approach channel. The erosion has been caused
partially by these breakwaters that reduce the (north to
south) net longshore sediment transport and cause beach
and bluff erosion south of the breakwater s leaving the
bluff more prone to wave attack. Another cause for the
bluff erosion is the relatively high lake levels during
the past 20 years.

The beach and bluff at Glenlord Beach Park located about
4 miles southof@the Benton Harbor breakwaters has been
relatively unaffected. At neighboring properties the
bluff.-.faces are steep and devegetated indicating frequent
erosion by waves, whereas the bluff at the park is still
vegetated with only min.or erosion of the.bluff toe due to
wave attack. The erosion extends to about 8 feet up the
bluff. It is difficult. to fully understand the reasons
for the varying erosion. pattern. Possibly the eroding
high bluffs about I mile north of the park supply so much
sand to the longshore current that it has a stabilizing
effect,on the beach at Glenlord Beach Park.

2.2. EROSION DUE TO FOOT TRAFFIC

A major cause of the bluff erosion at the park is the un-
regulated foot traffic. There is direct access for vehi-
cular traffic close to the top of the bluff and also direct

2.2 EROSION DUE TO FcOOT TRAFFIC (Cont'd)

access for people to the beach via the bluff face. As a
result, numerous foot paths have been created and the
vegetative cover, mainly beach grass, has been damaged
severely. It has weakened the sta 'bility of the bluff and
the bluff face is more susceptible to failure under un-
favorableconditions.

The stairways at the north side of the park, although in-
tact, have evidently functioned marginally.

2.3 EROSION DUE. TO STORM SEWER PIPE

A storm sewer pipe draining excess water from the county
highway and from the parking area of the park is located at.
the far north side of Glenlord Beach Park. Presently, it
is broken at-the top of the bluff causing considerable over-
land flow during severe rainfall. A large gully has formed
down the bluff which in turn has stimulated play activities
and further damage to the vegetative cover on the bluff face.

2.4 BLUFF RECONSTRUCTION AND STABILIZATION

The major causes bf the bluff erosion at Glenlord Beach
Park are uncontrolled pedestrian traffic, the broken storm
sewer pipe and wave attack at the-toe. The latter is poten-
tially the most serious problem, but fortunately, this type
of erosion has thus far been limited at the Park and pre-
s-ently it does not seemnecessary to take mitigation mea-
sures. There is a significant possibility that in the next
five years wave attack will cause further erosion and as a,
result destabilization of the bluff face. Therefore, it is
recommended that bluff erosion at the Park as well as at
neighboring properties be watched closely. The necessary
measures, such as, the installation of groins, Z-wall s or a
stone revetment can then be taken subsequently.

2.4 BLUFF RECONSTRUC-TION AND'STABILIZATION (Cont'd)

The following measures should be taken to re-establish the
bluff face and to prevent bluff erosion due to foot traffic
and the broken sewer pipe:

Repair and proper installation of the storm sewer p ipe.
Details of the construction are given on figure no. 3
on page 12.
Filling of all gullies wit h beach sand; especially the
large gully at the north side, requires substantial
filling. Lasting protection of this part of the bluff
can o nly be achieved if the neighboring property owner
will cooperate.
Extensive planting of beach grass on the bluf f face And
brambles and juniper, or construction of a fence at the
bluff toe to discourage foot traffic up the bluff.

PARKING LOT SURFACE

EXISTING RETAINING WALL
6/%-V'o

SURFACE OF BLUFF. FACE AFTER BACK FILLING

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0

BOTTOM OF, EXISTING GULLY

RIPRAP.._j EACI,

NO SCALE

FIGURE 3

CROSS SECTION OF
STORM SEWER PIPE REPAIR

ABONMARCHE CONSULTANTS, INC.
BENTON HARBOR, MICHIGAN

3.0 ANALYSIS OF RECREATION-1:10TENTIAL OF PARK SITE

3.1 LOCAL RECREATION NEEDS

Lincoln Township is one of the most successful and futuristic
governments in Southwestern Michigan. In 1978, both the town-
ship's Planning Commission and Parks & Recreation Commission
completed in-depth studies of the township's future needs. The
township Park & Recreation Plan evaluated the need for new
land for recreational development as well as improvements for
existing facilities. The Parks & Recreatio n Commission has
followed this Plan in completing various activities programmed
on an annual basis.

This report and the site design for Glenlord Beach Park is
identified as an activity for the 1981-82 budget year.

The township has approximately 375 acres of publically owned
Parks & Recreation lands, including 305 acres of the state-
owned Grand Mere area. In addition, there is almost 50 acres
devoted to privately owned recreational uses. According to
the Park & Recreation Plan, the township was deficient by
90 acres in 1977 and will be 290 acres deficient in the year
2000. Several acquisition proposals are identified to remedy
this deficiency.

The recommendations within the Plan specify that the "Primary
emphasis of the Lincoln Township Parks & Recr eation Commission
shall be, development and improvement of existing park and
recreation areas. Existing park sites shall be developed,
according to a site plan to maximize the recreational potential.'

SDecific recommendations for Glenlord Beach Park ihclude:

That all site improvements be durable, vandal proof,
and easily.maintainable.

3.1 LOCAL RECREATION-NEEDS (Contd)

That increased security of the park be provided.
That intensive law enforcement be used to resolve
misuse problems.
Picnic tables, cooking grills, and benches be installed.
Aesthetic improvements of the,beach area be initiated.

3.2 SUITABILITY OF PARK SITE,

The suitability of the park has been thoroughly evaluated
in the township's Land Use and Park & Recreation Plans. A
30-year history of actual public use has also documented
the growing need and intensive use of the park. The question
in designin g the Park Plan.is not one of suitability, but a
question of gaining maximum use without straining the capa-
city of the park. As the intensity of use is increased, the
suitability of the park becomes more and more questionable
in terms of maintenance costs, people problems, and,impacts
on surrounding neighbors. The design-considers, as much
as possible, methods'to mitigate these problems.

3.3 SUMMARY

The park is suitable for intense development and upon com-
pletion will conform to the recommendations of the Lincoln
Township Park & Recreation Plan dated November, 1978.

4.o SITE DESIGN.BACKGROUND AND ALTERNATIVES

4.1 BACKGROUND AND ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED

Glenlord Beach Park does not have an extensive list of
alternative recreation uses. The single use of the facility
has to be water recreation. Any other use of the park
has to be subordinate and complimentary to beach activities.
This decision was made.early in the design process promoted
by the intensive use of the park for water recreation and
the limited area which could be appropriately used for other

purposes.

The,park must be designed to serve increasingly more people.
Presently, the park is used to a capacity determined by the
number of parking spaces in the parking lot. All new de-
signs consider increasing the number of parking spaces which
will ultimately provide greater potential for use.

Only compatible uses, such as, picnicing and a look-out area
can be reasonably added to the existing development. No
other uses should be allowed, since they will conflict with
water recreation.

With these major design principles established, a site design
team met on-site to develop a single design plan. The team
consisted of civil"engineers, landscape architects, and land
use planner, plus engineers specializing on erosion control.
The findings and recommendations of the team follow and are
graphically portrayed on the attached design plan.

4.2 BEACH ACCESS

Beach access via the stairway has caused people to intrude
onto adjacent property. Although the stairway appears sound,
several improvements or repairs are warranted. The stairway
should be removed and relocated to the center of the property

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4.2 BEACH ACCESS (Cont'd)

in the eroded "gully" area. The remaining portion of the
gully" should be stabilized by planting dune grass or a
similar ground cover to hold the sand bluff in place. All
other pedestrian access to the beach should be prohibited
and controlled, so the o access-to the beach is through
nix
the stairway.

4.3 BLUFF RECONSTRUCTION AND STABILIZATION

The northern eroded area (where the current stairway now
stands) should be filled and the bluff re-established. This
will require substantial fill and extensive plantings to
stabilize the bluff.. The contour should follow the step
down contour of the bluff on the southerly end of the park.

4.4 ACTIVITY AREAS

The park currently has three activity areas: 1) access, and
parking, 2) picnicing, and 3) access and beach. It is
recommended that one additional activity be included -- a
look-out or passive sitting, walking, and observation area.

Relocation of the-picnic, area is required to provide addi-
tional-parking. Moving this area to @he south bluff top
will nearly double the size of the picnic area, as well as
tie together the look-out and beach access stail-Ray.

4.5 PARKING

The current parking area is at capacity throughout peak
times during the summer.. Also, the gravel surface has no
provisions toline up cars in an organized parking pattern..
Thus, the first person Ito park sets the parking pattern for
all who follow. Usually this results in underutilized
portions of the parking lot.

4.5 'PARK114G (Cont'd)

Recommendations for the parking area include:

1. Regraveling and leveling of the surface with improved
stormwater drainage pipes to the northwest corner

2. Expansion of the 'Lot into the area now used for
picnicing.
3. Arrangement of parking spaces and roadways by use
of parking bumpers.
4. Expanding or more accurately squaring off-the
present boundaries of the lot.
5. Eventual surfacing of the parking lot with asphalt
pIavement to further control parking, improve drain-
age, and reduce maintenance costs..

4.6 ACCESS CONTROL

Probably the most.critical design issue is-one of security
and access control. Since the parkis fenced, access con-
trol can and is currently being done. The present unsightly
pipe gates are recommended for removal. In place of these
gates, and located at the end of the duallane park entrance,
it is recommended that a wire mesh fence with two gates be
.constructed. A turn around would be required before the
fence to allow visitors arriving at nonauthorized times an
easy exit. This system would increase security by making
the entrance impassible for.both cars and people.

A guard house or ticket-taker house could be constructed
just inside the fence for receiving park user fees,' if
charged.

The access road deserves some treatment with plantings.
Presently, the lane has beautiful, mature trees, but a
visitor is distracted by the absence of, and unsightly
underbrush. Some removal of this underbrush and replanting
with hedge rows would improve the visual invitation of the
park.

4.7 BUFFERS'AND FENCE ROW PIANTING

In an earlier section, suitable plants for wind breaks
and hedges were listed. It is suggested, that the south
and east fence rows be planted to screen neighboring
properties. Park personnel should be informed of proper
maintenance of these hedge rows and annually prune the rows
to assure maximum growth and aesthetics.

4.8 PLANTING AND LANDSCAPIN-1.3-T.

Access road and fence row plantings have been described in
earlier sections and should not be considered the only
plants which are necessary.._ Additional plantings should
be made to enhance the relocated picnic area. Also, ex-
tensive planting should be done to stabilize the sandy
soils of the bluff face, especially, the north bluff u-Don-
reshaping.

Again, only the most hearty vegetation can withstand the
droughty soil, and careful selection should be made of any
plants for compatability.

4.9 NEW CONSTRUCTIONS

Two new construction projects should be considered along
with the relocation or building of a new stairway. Bluff
walkways or look-out facilities should be built on the top
of the ridge or intermediate step on the central and
southern portions of the park bluff. This will serve two
useful purposes:

1. It allows a look-out viewing point and sitting area
for persons who do not wish to climb the stairway to
view the beach.
2. It provides a place for parents to watch youngsters
while they play on the beach and in the water.

l 9

4.9 NEW CONSTRUCTION (Contd)

This level is also isolated from the bluff top, which should
be reserved for picnic purposes. Both areas will require
extensive stabilIzation of the sandy soil and will probably
require treated wood walkways and decking. Wood benches
should be constructed on the look-out platforms in appropriate
locations.

This concept could be carried out over the total length of
the bluff face and used to limit beach access to the central
stairway. An additional benefit would be the stabilizing
of the bluff by allowing planting to remain undisturbed.

Lastly, the park provides no washroom or bathhouse facilities,
although portable restroom facilities are provided during
summer months. Construction and maintenance costs of.these
types of facilities are quite high in addition to requiring
a high degree of security. Since the park has operated suc-
cessfully on a portable restroom facility basis over the past
years, it is recommended that thisitype of operation be con-
tinued. The preferred location of the portable restroom
facilities is in a location.in the northwest portion of the
parking lot area. A concrete base with wood dividing walls
should be constructed to house the portable restroom facil-
ities.

4.110 SUMMARY

Recommendations made to enhance the use of the park are
summarized as follows:

Removal and relocation of the stairway.
Relocation of picnic area.
Expansion of, leveling of, and installation of park-
ing bumpers for the parking lot.
Filling and re-establishing the northern bluff.

4.10 SUMMARY (Contd)

Screening of south and east rows with extensive
plantings.
Constructing an entrance control fence and guard house.
Removal and replanting the entrance lanes.
Constructing look-out point walkways.or sitting areas.
Construction of a bluff top picnic area.
Construction of an asphalt pavement parking lot and
entrance drive.

Coh8truction:ofa bathhouse enclosure.

The recommended actions are each found in the park design
master plan (.see figure no, 4 page 16.

4.11 SITE DESIGN ALTERNATIVES

Several alternatives for site design for Glenlord Beach Park
were prepared and reviewed in public workshops with the
Lincoln Township Park Commission. The designs concern four
(4) major park development area s:

I. Erosion Control.
II. Parking Entrance Access.
III. Beach Access.
IV. Parking, Playground and Look-out Areas.

A Master Plan of the Park is shown on figure 4 on page 16
of this study. A description of the recommendations in the
Master Plan follows:

I. EROSION CONTROL

Three (3) major areas for erosion control protection must be
considered:

1. Storm Sewer Repairand Extension.-
2. Bluff Fencing.
3. Bluff Fill and Planting.

EROSION CONTROL (Cont'd)

Storm Sewer Repair and Erosion

Repair of the broken storm sewer must be performed to pre-
vent further erosion in. the northwestern corner of the park.
Fill with dune grass plantings should be placed over the re-
paired pipe. Additionally, concrete rip-rap should be placed
at the existing pipe discharge point on the beach. At the
parking lot, two manholes with inlet covers should be con-
structed to improve the drainage. An extension of the storm
sewer pipe would be provided between the manholes. Figure-
no. 3 on page 12 illustrates a cross section of the storm
sewer pipe discharge down the bluff.

Bluff Fencing

A major cause of surface erosion on the bluff face is the,
movement of people. Construction of a fence across the top
of the bluff will reduce the erosion effects from the move-
ment of people.by directing them to use the stairway to the
beach., Further discussions of the fencing and related cost
estimates are contained in the look-out platform section of
this -report.

Bluff Fill and Plantin.Z-S

The third major construction item recommended to reduce
erosion is to stabiliZe the.existing bluff with placement
of fill and dune grass plantings. The areas to be filled
and planted are those presently eroded by the movement of
people down the bluff face. These areas are located in
the center and northerly portions of the bluff.

PARK ACCESS

Several park access entranceways were developed through
discussions with the Lincoln Township Park's Commission
and Architects and Engineers. The selected park access
alternative is shown in the Master Plan and is further

described below.

The entrance maximizes use of available parking space with
a total of 72 car parking spaces. The entrance guard build-
ing, entrance fence and. gates, and turn-around are located
in line with the eastern property line near the northerly
right-of-way. No existing trees would be removed. Some
hedges and low trees would be planted near and around 'the
guard house to'improve the entrance aesthetics.

BEACH ACCESS

Several alternatives for beach access were reviewed and

discussed. These alternatives included:

l.. Repair existing stairway.
2. Construct new stairway (per Master Plan on Figure 4)

Repair Existing Stairway

This alternative would construct new handrails along the
existing stairway and replace. the deteriorated steps through-
out the stairway. Some fencing would also be added to direct
pedestrian movement toward the stairway. This alternative
could be performed at a minimal cost.

Construct New Stairway

This beach access alternative (Master Plan) is preferred
due to the capacity of' the stairway to reduce erosion by
limiting movement of people on the bluff face.

Construct New Stairway. (Cont'd)

The simplified design would more easily allow for structural
repairs to the walkway should severe bluff erosion be ex- .
perienced. This alternative is shown on the Master Plan and
also on a schematic plan of the bluff (figures 6 and 9).

IV. PARKING, PLAYGROUND AND LOOK-OUT AREAS

Parking

The recommended'parking lot layout is shown on the Master
Plan- The layout includes construction of a curb along the
outer limits of the par-king lot; the addition of trees in
the parking lot;' and the placement of asphalt pavement over
the gravel base. The storm sewer drainage construction/re-
pair is discussed in the erosion control section of this
report.

Playground

Due to the limited size-of the park, few alternatives are
available for playground and picnic area design. Some.
vegetation cover and low level,mounds are recommended to
improve aesthetics and provide buffers from the.parking
lot. Additionally, several picnic tables and cooking grills
should be provided throughout the playground area.

The portable restrooms are to be located near the northerly
park property lines adjacent-to the parking lot. The north-
erly park location-is the preferredalternative due to its
close proximity to the beach access walkway and distant
location from the playground/picnic area. The playground
is shown in detail on the,Master Plan.

Look-Out Areas

Several alternatives for look-out areas were reviewed and
discussed with Lincoln Township, and landscape and erosion
specialists. The developed plan is shown on the Master
Plan. The 1 ook-out areas would be constructed of pressure
treated lumber and be elevated for optimum view of the
beach. In addition to the look-out platforms, bluff fenc-

Look-Out Areas (Cont'd)
ing to limit erosion by persons walking over the bluff
face and planting of trees and shrubs in a .ppropriate loca-
tions would be'Performed. A schematic view of the play-
ground and look-out areas is shown in figures 7 and 8.

4.12 ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COSTS

The estimated construction costs for the Glenlord Beach
Park project'have been broken down into two phases. These
phases correspond to the amount of funding which Lincoln
Townsh ip has applied for from the'two federal grant agencies.

Phase I

.1. Repair and reconstruct storm sewer, place
rip-rap and,fill, and dune grass planting
on bluff face $ 13j500

2. Regrade and pave (asphalt) parking lot,
add curb at@lot perimeters, add tree islands 22,000

3'. Construct parking lot access with fencing,
guard house, and landscaping 6,500
4.' Constr uct stairwayto beach $ 8,500

5. Construct bluff fencing and portable
restroom enclosure 2,500

6. Engineering and administration 4,600
$ 57,600

Phase II (Master Plan')_
Construct look@out platforms $ 18,0-00

Construct berm, plantings, play
structure, picnic -tables, cooking
grills, parking lot lighting 12,000

-3. Engineering, administration 2,000

$ 32,000

ESTIMATED TOTAL PROJECT COSTS $ 89,600

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AXONOMETRIC LOOKOUT PLATFORMS,
SHOWING-,STEP UP/DOWN AREAS

FIGURE 8

ABONMARCHE CONSULTANTS9 INC.
BENTON HARBOR* MICHIGAN

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FIGURE 9
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ABO'NMARCHE "CONSULTANTS9 INC.
BENTON HARBOR9 MICKIGAN

5.0 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY

Development of park improvements and erosion control measures
will be contingent Upon the financial resources available.
Township funds are limited. County-funding is not available
at this time and is not likely to become available. (see attache
letter on page 37).

Successful development of Glenlord Beach Park will be tied
to the Township's ability to leverage additional funding
from Federal grant programs. Two funding programs remain
available; The Coastal Zone Management Program (CZM) and
the Resource Conservation and Development Program (RC&D).

5.1 COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT'

An application for $50,000 in-construction funds has been
submitted to CZM for Lincoln Township for the 1982-83 fiscal
year. CZM funding for construction projects is ending. If
this application is approved, it will be the last opportunity
to use this program for construction.

The CZM program requires a 20% local participation. The
$50,000 request would be matched by $12,500 from Lincoln Town-
ship resulting in a potential construction budget of up to
$62,500 for 1982-83.

CZM will fund site improvements such as: recreational im-
provements, rustic fencing, parking lot (no asphalt), walk-
ways, bluff cutback and bluff and walkway revegetation.

5.2 RESOURCE CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT

The Sauk Trails RC&D District Office has placed Glenlord
Beach Park on a list of potential funding projects for
"Critical Area Treatment Measures (Erosion and Sediment
Control)". This program applies to critically eroding
areas which cannot be stabilized by ordinary conservation

5.2 RESOURCE CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT (Cont'd)

and management measures, and if left untouched would cause
severe sediment or erosion damage. These measures may be
carried out on critically eroding areas on public or pri-
vate lands that:
(1) if left untouched will adversly affect the community
or the general public, and
(2) the treated area will be maintained in trees, shrubs,
and grass or other protective cover.

Eligible practices include, but are not limited to:
(1) Critical area planting
(2) Fencing (except boundary fences)
(3) Grade stabilization structures
_(4) Stone Revetments Rip-rap
(5) Mulching
(6) Tree planting
(7) Terraces
(8) Subsurface drains needed to stabilize critical areas
(9) Asphalt parking lots - drainage

The RC&D Critical Area Program requires 25% local partici-
pation for Critical Area Treatment Measures.

Another funding resource through RC&D is forbasic facilities.
Under this program water-based recreation is an eligible
activity. Eligible improvements include:

(1) roads, trails, paths and walks providing access from
public highways and between different parts of the
development.
(2) parking areas.
(3) scenic overlooks, observation towers and platforms.
(4) water, electric and sanitary facilities for the park.

The RC&D Basic Facilities Program requires a 50% local
participation.

5.3 REVENUE PRODUCING POTENTIAL

Periodically, through the early summer of 1982, the park
site was visited to gain a perspective of user character-
istics on high use days. This was not an attempt to perform
A statistical analysis; but was rather a subjective evalu-
ation gained through observation and interview.

5.4 'USER CHARACTERISTICS

At a given time, on a weekend afternoon with good weather,
between 30 and 50 vehicles would be parked in the park.
The vehicles were usually evenly divided between Michigan
and out-of-state license plates. Michigan vehicles were
generally local. Out-of-state plates were generally owned
by persons who owned or, rented cottages or second homes
locally. Comparatively, few park users arrived from out-
side of Berrien County for the purpose of using Glenlord
Beach Park.

An average of 3 persons: per vehicle arrived, and through-
out the day there was a fairly slow but regular turnover.
A typical stay in the park was-about 4hours and roughly a
total-of 80 different vehicles would arrive. Total daily
usage,on a weekend averaged 200 to 250 persons.

5.5 REVENUE POTENTIAL

As the park is improved, we would expect local usage to in-
crease. However, we do not anticipate enough additional
usage to-justify highly, structured revenue producing efforts
such as, sale of user permits or concession for refreshments.
A modified or part-time basis for sale of user permits on
peak days and weekends only, may be feasible for producing

revenue.

5.5 REVENUE POTENTIAL (Con.t'd)

As most.park users are staying in a local home or cottage,
-the revenue potential from the sale of refreshments is
fairly limited, in comparison to other facilities where
the.day user originates outside the local area.

5.6 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE COSTS

The recommended development strategy is designed to minimize
annual maintenance.

fencing: quality chain link fencing, properly installed,
will be largely maintenance-free and have a life ex-
pectancy of approximately 20 years. There is a
potential for vandalism which should promptly be re-
paired.
parking lot: the -proposed gravellot may occasionally
need additional gravel or some grading to fill holes.
An asphalt pavement overlay would minimize maintenance
for 7 to 10 years.
walkway: the walkway is designed to be replaceable in.
10 foot sections. for ease of maintenence. Lower sec-
tions could be -removed during the winter to minimize
potential damage, or altered i-f severe bluff erosion
is experienced.
equipment: tables,-grills and recreation equipment
should be removed. and stored during the off season.

Most main tenance costs the township will face, will be people
related, such as, litter and vandalism. Litter and vandalism
can be minimized through proper security, supervision, light-
ing and regularily emptied trash receptacles.

A-two man crew, working; three weeks a year, will be able to
perform typical, annual. maintenance efforts. One and one
half (1k) weeks will be necessary to open the park in the
spring and one and one half (1k) weeks will be necessary to
close the park in the fall. During the'balance of the sum-
mer, part-time student help may be necessary for cleaning
and litter removal.

5.6 OPERATION AND-MAINTENANCE COSTS (Contd)

An annual budget of $7,5GO for manpower and material should
be sufficient for normalmaintenance expenses.

HEAVY MAINTENANCE

2 man crew/3 weeks 240 hours @ $8.00/hour $ 1,920

OPERATIONAL MAINTENANCE

Part-time student 20 hrs./week x 15 weeks
300 hours @ $4.50/hr $ 1,350

Supplies, equipment and material .$ 4,230

$ 7,500

The full amount allocated for supplies, equipment and
material may not be used each year, however, each year's
balance should be reserved and allowed to accumulate for
unexpected or extraordinary maintenance costs.

-35

LINCOLN TOWNSHIP

BERRIEN COUNTY
.2055 'W'. John Becrs Rd.
P 0. DRANAT R L
TELEPI ME 616429-1589
SJ-MTNSN71L1__E, MICHIGAN 49127

EXTRACTS FROM THE MINUTES OF A REGULAR MONTHLY MEETI NG OF THE LINCOLN
TOWNSHIP PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION HELD ON JULY 6v 1982.

WHEREAS, the Lincoln Township Parks and Recreation Commission
adopted an overall township parks development plan in 1978. The
plan evaluated the townships futu-re needs in all park areas and
recommended further study of Glen.lord Park and

WHEREAS, the Lincoln Township Parks and Recreation Commission
applied for and received a Michigan Coastal Zone Management Grant
to provide 80% financial assistan'ce for an indepth plan and site
design of Glenlord Beach Park and.

WHERE *AS, the firm of Abonmarche Consultants, Inc. was retained
by the Lincoln Township Parks.and. Recreation Commission to prepare
the Glenlord Beach Park Plan and Site Design and

WHEREAS, several public work shops were held to review alter-
native site designs and park development recommendations. After
review of the alternatives.. a preliminary final report was prepared
and presented to the Lincoln Township Parks and Recreation Commission,
now

THEREFOREt BE IT RESOLVED, that the Lincoln Township Parks and
Recreation Commission of Lincoln Township, Michigan hereby accepts
and adopts the Glenlord Beach Park.Development Plan and Site Design
as prepared by Abonmarche Consultantsp Inc.

Moved by Commissioner Don Mack, -supported by Commissioner Don
Myers that the foregoing resolution be approved. Motion carried by
the following vote on roll call. Yeas: Carol-- Petros.. Don Mack..,
Don Flyers., Bill Ott and@Chairman Doris Florian. Nays:. None.
I. Priscilla Richardsont Secretary of the Lincoln Township Parks and
Recreation Commission do certify that the above is a true, compared
and correct copy of a resolution of the Lincoln Township Parks and
'Recreation Commission of Lincoln Township, Michigan, adopted at a
regular meeting held on the 6th day of July, 1982.

(Seal) Priscilla Ric -h@rd-son, Lincoln Town--
ship Parks and Recreation Commission
Secretary

BERRIEN COU14TY COURTHOUSE

OFFICE OF:
BERRIEN COUNTY Planning Department
ST. JOSEPH, MICHIGAN 49085
PLANNING DEPARTMENT
7F, E EPHONE: 616 983-7111, EXT. 254
AARON ANTHONY, DIRECTOR T L

June 29, 1982

Abonmarche Consultants, Inc.
Attention:.Mr. Ron Schultz
95 W. [1ain Street
Benton Harbor, MI 49022

Dear Mr. Schultz:

This le'tter,is intended to bring you up to date on the issue of County
participation in financial assistance for Parks and Park Development. In
the past the County, through their Parks & Recreation Commission, has
financially assisted various park development issues. Since the acquisition
of Madeline Bertrand Park and with the economic times being what they are,
this practice has been discontinued'. Monies acquired for park development
by the Parks & Recreation Commissio'n will be funnelled to the new County
Park. It is further anticipated that the assistance program will not be
re-established in the forseeable fucture.

As a result, I'must regretfully say, that no financial assistance-is
available now,'nor anticipated in the near future, relative to park
development, except for maintaining! the County Parks System.

If you have any questions, please call me.

Sincerely,

BERRIEN COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT

Aaron Anthony, Planning Director
r1c

[:Dn.T-cl-f DUE

GAYLORDINIo. 2333

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