Cascade Loop Scenic Highway Corridor Management Plan (Part 2)

Preserving the Unique Qualities and Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

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LAKE WENATCHEE

Fishing and camping destination

Preserving the Unique Qualities and Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop Introduction An important focus of byway management relates to creating additional opportunities to enhance visitor experience by guiding travelers on their journey, enriching their memories through interpretation and positive interactions, and instilling a sense of what is unique and important about the environment in which they are traveling. Visitors to the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway are customers in communities in every region of the byway, and their daily travel expenditures bring important economic benefits to the local and regional economies all around the byway. Sustaining this economic vitality is highly dependent upon preserving the unique qualities and resources that attract visitors to the Cascade Loop in the first place.

Working with land management entities including federal, state, and local jurisdictions and other byway partners, the Cascade Loop Association will have an ongoing role in byway management. Serving as the byway’s primary champion and proponent, the Cascade Loop Association

will continue promoting the vision and values of the byway and lead the implementation of this plan. The Cascade Loop Association will continue to work with partners to preserve and enhance the visitor experience and the resources that draw visitors to each region as the cherished places and assets that exemplify the high quality experiences of the byway, critical to its ongoing sustainability and success.

This chapter of the corridor management plan provides a brief summary of the visitor profile and existing visitor services and facilities available along the Cascade Loop, as well as ongoing recommendations for enhancing the visitor experience and preserving the byway’s unique qualities. For example, focusing on sustainability of the byway’s qualities and resources by promoting the benefits of stewardship to visitors is one of the key management strategies highlighted in this plan.

Marketing and promotional strategies and activities for the byway are also presented.

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

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Visitor Profile Each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors experience the Cascade Loop.

Many of these travelers come to experience a specific region or portion of the Loop, while others travel the entire byway route as their destination experience. Cascade Loop visitors come from everywhere— throughout the state of Washington and the Pacific Northwest, as well as from other areas across the United States and various international origins.

Visitor statistics are summarized on NORTH CASCADES VISITOR CENTER

A place to learn about the natural and cultural history of the North Cascades

the following pages.

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Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

Cascade Loop Visitor Statistics The Cascade Loop Association records visitor statistics and information each year to guide ongoing management, promotional, and marketing activities. Information from the 2013 Cascade Loop Association Annual Report, updated to reflect 2012-2013 visitor spending data from Washington State Tourism is highlighted below.

Economic Impact Analysis CASCADE LOOP TRAVEL GUIDE REQUESTS: 62,8051 AVERAGE EXPENDITURE PER DAY (PER PARTY): $237.002 AVERAGE PARTY SIZE FOR OVERNIGHT TRIPS: 2.3 PEOPLE2 PERCENTAGE OF GUESTS TRAVELING 4+ DAYS ON THE LOOP: 54.5%3 PERCENTAGE OF GUESTS TRAVELING 1-3 DAYS ON THE LOOP: 45.5%4 ESTIMATED DIRECT REVENUE GENERATED BY LOOP TRAVELERS WHO REQUESTED THE GUIDE: $54,106,1935

NOTES: 1. Travel guide requests: 2012-2013, Cascade Loop Travel Guide Requestor Survey, 2012-2013 (104,000 guides were printed and 99% of the guides produced were distributed in 20122013/102,960 guides total; 61% of guide requestors indicated that they completed the Cascade Loop because of having the printed guide.

2. Washington Tourism Alliance, Washington State Travel Impacts and Visitor Volumes, Dean Runyan Associates, 2014 3. Cascade Loop Travel Guide Requestor Survey, 2012-2013 (calculations assume 5 days average) 4. Cascade Loop Travel Guide Requestor Survey, 2012 -2013 (calculations assume 2 days average) 5. 54.5% parties spending $237 per day for 5 days + 45.5% parties spending $237 per day for 2 days

WINTHROP

Sees many visitors in its western town

It is important to note that the economic revenue calculated is solely for trips by Cascade Loop travel guide requestors (62,805 parties) and does not reflect the other estimated hundreds of thousands of trips made by travelers around the Cascade Loop who did not specifically request the travel guide (but may have picked one up along the way). As such, overall economic revenue generated as a result of travel around the Loop is likely several times the amount shown.

Also the revenue calculated reflects only direct spending per party per day and does not reflect indirect economic benefits that result from this spending, such as local jobs and spending by employees from those jobs.

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

2012-2013 Cascade Loop Visitor Information 1 58.6% OF GUESTS TRAVEL IN GROUPS OF 2 36.2% OF GUESTS TRAVEL IN GROUPS OF 3+ 35.4% OF GUEST TRAVEL DURING THE SHOULDER SEASON (SPRING OR FALL) 54.5% OF GUESTS TRAVEL 4+ DAYS 45.5% OF GUESTS TRAVEL 1-3 DAYS OVER 22,000 DIRECT LEADS WERE PROVIDED TO CASCADE LOOP TOURISM PARTNERS

NOTES: 1. Cascade Loop Travel Guide Requestor Survey, 2012-2013

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Social Media Growth 1 DURING THE 2013-2014 TRAVEL YEAR, THE CASCADE LOOP FACEBOOK AUDIENCE GREW BY APPROXIMATELY 1,700 TO NEARLY 4,000.

67% OF THE FACEBOOK FANS WERE FEMALE; 32% WERE MALE 24% OF THE FACEBOOK FANS WERE 35-44 YEARS OF AGE; 25% WERE 45-54 YEARS OF AGE

NOTES: 1. Facebook Insights report, June 5, 2014

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Annual Visitation Statistics from around the Cascade Loop Several key destinations around the Cascade Loop attract hundreds of thousands (and in some cases millions) of annual visitors throughout the year, as shown in the table below. Average daily traffic counts (refer to Chapter 4) provide another indication of the numbers of travelers using Cascade Loop routes on an annual basis.

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Leavenworth Bavarian Village

2,200,0001

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

3,000,0002

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

1,700,0002

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area/ Ross Lake National Recreation Area/ North Cascades National Park Ebeys Landing National Historic Reserve (Including Fort Ebey and Fort Casey)

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500,000 to 800,000+3

1, 000,0004

SOURCES: 1. City of Leavenworth, 2011 Parks and Recreation Plan 2. Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for Northern Border Activities, US Customs and Border Protection, Appendix I—Profiles of Protected Areas along the Northern Border, July 2012 3. National Park Service Visitor Use Statistics: https://irma.nps.gov/Stats/ and same source as above, under 2 4. Ebeys Landing National Historic Reserve Long-Range Interpretive Plan, National Park Service, September 2009

ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF VISITS TO THE NORTH CASCADES—A 2013 study of economic impacts related to national park visitation found that the nearly 810,000 visitors to the North Cascades National Park Service Complex resulted in about $33 million in visitor spending in nearby communities.

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Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

Proximity to Major Metropolitan Markets The Cascade Loop Scenic Highway draws visitors from throughout the region, as well as from throughout the United States and countries around the world. Millions of people live within a halfday drive or less from the Loop, as shown in the table below.

MAJOR METROPOLITAN AREA/ METROPOLITAN STATISTICAL AREA (MSA) Puget Sound Region (Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, Tacoma, Olympia) Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada Metropolitan Area Tri-Cities (Kennewick, Pasco, Richland) MSA Spokane MSA Portland, Oregon/Vancouver, Washington MSA

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME TO 2010 CASCADE LOOP ENTRY POINT POPULATION Less than 1 Hour to 1-1/2 Hours

4,199,312

Less than 2 Hours

2,476,145

2-1/4 Hours

253,340

3 Hours

471,429

3-1/2 Hours

2,226,009

Domestic and International Visitor Statistics and Trends According to the 2011 Washington State Travel Impacts & Visitor Volumes report by Dean Runyan Associates for the Washington Tourism Alliance, most visitors coming to Washington state for tourism were from other areas of the United States. The report stated that:

58% OF VISITORS WERE FROM THROUGHOUT THE UNITED STATES 34% OF VISIT0RS WERE FROM WASHINGTON STATE 11% OF VISITORS WERE FROM INTERNATIONAL ORIGINS, INCLUDING CANADA

International visitors to the Cascade Loop and North Cascades come from countries all around the world.

Historical statistics indicate that there is a high level of interest in this region with European travelers, as well as with visitors from Japan, China, and other Asian countries.

SKAGIT REGIONAL AIRPORT Located in Burlington, WA

The 2011 report indicated that visitor spending in 2010-2011 was up by 5% over the 2009-2010 level. The American and global economies have been slowly gaining strength after the Great Recession of 2007-2009, and the level of travel across the US and in Washington is expected to continue to increase.

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

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Visitor Interests and Opportunities

Chelan County Visitor Research A study completed for the Port of Chelan County

by RRC Associates and Jim Lillstrom and Associates in 2010 found that:

THE AVERAGE SIZE OF EACH PARTY VISITING WAS 3.6 PERSONS 22% WERE MAKING THEIR FIRST VISIT TO THE AREA AVERAGE NIGHTS AWAY FROM HOME WAS 3.9 (WITH 23% STAYING 6 OR MORE NIGHTS) 70% OF OVERNIGHT VISITORS WERE STAYING IN COMMERCIAL LODGING, 14% WERE CAMPING, AND 11% WERE STAYING WITH FRIENDS/FAMILY THE BLEND OF VISITING GROUPS INCLUDED: 35% FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN

Cascade Loop Scenic Highway visitor interests are extremely diverse and matched to the seasonal opportunities and context of each region. There truly is something for everyone around the Cascade Loop and each region provides a variety of experiences—including abundant year-round recreation; historical interpretation; arts and cultural opportunities; festivals and events; enjoyment of local cuisine, wineries, and craft breweries; and agri-tourism opportunities that bring visitors in touch with Washington’s working farms, ranches, orchards, and vineyards.

Visitors to Regions 1 and 9 can enjoy marineoriented activities such as beach walking, marine boating, and marine wildlife watching, and/

or urban activities, such as visiting museums, cultural centers, and attending events. For example, the Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing Tour are major attractions in Region 1. Region 4 also provides access to a variety of city and country opportunities in Wenatchee and vicinity, as well as recreation on the reservoirs of the Columbia River.

All of the regions around the Cascade Loop provide recreational opportunities—some water-based, some land-oriented. Visitors can take part in boating and kayaking on Puget Sound, as well as water sports and fishing on inland lakes and rivers. Wildlife-watching opportunities are available at every bend, including memorable experiences of being

26% EMPTY NESTERS 19% COUPLES WITHOUT KIDS 16% SINGLES WITHOUT KIDS 65% OF THE VISITORS WERE FROM THE SEATTLE/TACOMA AREA 9% FROM SPOKANE 5% FROM THE TRI-CITIES 4% FROM PORTLAND, OREGON 6% FROM INTERNATIONAL ORIGINS INCLUDING CANADA 50/50 GENDER SPLIT AVERAGE AGE 40 YEARS INCOMES: ABOUT HALF OVER $75 K AND HALF UNDER

CHELAN

As many as 65% of visitors to Chelan County are from the Seattle/Tacoma Area

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able to view populations of Bald eagles and the Hurn Field elk feeding station along the Skagit River and winter water fowl (such as tundra swans) throughout the Skagit Valley.

Visitors to the Cascade Loop regions surrounded by US National Forest and National Park Service lands are likely to be interested in a variety of outdoor recreation activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, mountain biking, climbing, river rafting, and much more.

Region 2 serves as a gateway to the Cascades and brings visitors in contact with several small towns where the local hospitality is abundant as well as a variety of interesting historical sites and stories of mining, timber history, railroad development, and settlement.

Region 3 is particularly known for year-round events, recreation, culinary opportunities, and shopping in the Bavarian Village of Leavenworth and nearby fruit and wine destinations. Region 4 is also known for abundant farm-to-table culinary opportunities and many local historical, cultural, and recreational opportunities.

Region 5 provides access to famous Lake Chelan and the Lake Chelan American Viticultural Area. Visitors enjoy abundant year-round recreation opportunities and special events in the communities of Chelan and Manson and can visit remote villages uplake, including the town of Stehekin, a National Historic District managed by the National Park Service.

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Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

Region 6—the Methow Valley is known as a lifestyle destination with outdoor adventures and recreation for all ages, including a networked trail system that provides hundreds of miles of trails for cross-country skiing in the winter and hiking and biking in the spring, summer, and fall.

Encompassing the North Cascades and extensive surrounding national park and forest lands, Region 7 provides a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities.

Region 8 brings visitors back into the Puget Sound lowlands and the broad agricultural setting of the Skagit Valley, where there are more culinary and agri-tourism opportunities, as well as a variety of historic sites, cultural events, festivals, and recreational opportunities.

Visitor Activities Based on US Forest Service visitor use reports for the Okanogan-Wenatchee and Mt. BakerSnoqualmie National Forests, the most popular visitor activities on national forest lands in these forests are: Viewing Natural Features Hiking/Walking Driving for Pleasure Cross-country Skiing Downhill Skiing Relaxing Camping at Developed Campsites

Around the Cascade Loop, visitors can enjoy scenic experiences at every turn, from views of Puget Sound with snow-capped peaks in the background, to panoramas of pastoral valleys, meadows filled with wildflowers, forested hills and high glacial peaks. As the byway descends the Cascades to the Columbia Plateau, the scenery changes to broad, open shrub-steppe landscapes interspersed with irrigated fields, orchards, and vineyards.

Camping in Primitive Areas

This is just a snapshot of the visitor opportunities of the Cascade Loop. Refer to Chapters 1, 2, and 3 of this plan for more detailed descriptions and mapping of the special places and activities of the byway.

Motorized Trail Activity

Picnicking Fishing Nature Study Nature Center Activities Hunting Gathering Forest Products

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

Existing Visitor Services and Accommodations Visitors to the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway have access to services and accommodations within each region, including visitor information, fuel, groceries and dining, supplies, emergency and medical services, and a wide variety of lodging (hotel/motel, bed-and-breakfast, camping, RV parks, etc.).

Region 7, which traverses portions of the Okanogan-Wenatchee and Mount BakerSnoqualmie National Forests as well as the North Cascades National Park Complex, is the most remote of all the regions. Visitor services and accommodations are more limited here, but still available. Visitors are typically within a one-hourdrive or less of fuel and food along this segment and are alerted of the gap in services by signs.

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Enhancing the Visitor Experience The experience of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway is already unique and memorable as a premier destination that offers diverse opportunities for visitors. Preserving this experience is critical for the long-term sustainability of the byway. While the experience of the byway is already worldclass, several strategies can help to ensure that this experience will remain a lasting legacy for future generations of visitors. These strategies, described in more detail should become a focus for ongoing byway management and implementation activities: Maintaining an ongoing focus on visitor hospitality; Promoting stewardship and sustainability; Expanding and improving signing and wayshowing and reinforcing the byway’s brand identity;

Refer to the region maps in Chapter 3 for specific locations of visitor services and accommodations along the Cascade Loop.

Telling the stories of the Cascade Loop through interpretation; and Preserving the overall character and unique qualities of the byway.

OHME GARDENS

This peaceful place can be found near Wenatchee

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Maintaining an Ongoing Focus on Visitor Hospitality The experience of the Cascade Loop is enhanced by the interactions between visitors and the local people of each region. Those who most interact with tourists—hotel clerks, visitor information volunteers, tour guides, shopkeepers, farm-stand employees, hosts/hostesses, waiters/waitresses, museum and interpretive center guides, and others—comprise the “front line” of communication with visitors and travelers. These are the folks who help to showcase the unique qualities of local life, art, cultural, and heritage in each region of the byway. With changes in tourism that include visitors transitioning from being attraction-oriented to being experience-oriented and seeking planned comfort, the role of local hospitality and human interaction will continue to become even more important.

Best practices in tourism hospitality call for motivating and educating front line staff in providing high quality customer service through good communication skills (such as listening skills and being able to convey a variety of information). When emphasizing a specific place-based experience, it is also important that the front line employees who interact with visitors the most understand that experience so they can convey information about it. Having knowledge about local history, arts, places to visit, and experiences such as the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway is critical in order to be able to convey information to visitors. It is also important that the experience of the Cascade Loop is consistent and cohesive across each region.

The Cascade Loop Scenic Highway is already a highly positive experience for visitors, with local businesses and services that offer a sense of welcome and support all along the byway. In order to continue to maintain this ongoing focus on visitor hospitality and to enrich the visitor experience even further, it will be important to help create a network of local experts representing each region that understand the experience of the Cascade Loop and that bring knowledge of regional and local history and culture. This network can then become liaisons to each local community and provide outreach to those involved in visitor hospitality with the ultimate objective of continuing to provide a positive visitor experience of the Cascade Loop and educating travelers about each region’s unique story. The Cascade Loop Association could partner with local museums, historians, land trusts, and chambers of commerce to implement this program. The network of liaisons could be trained in periodic seminars about the Cascade Loop experience, and they in turn could provide presentations and training sessions to locals, working with chambers of commerce and tourism organizations in each region. A package of information about the Cascade Loop should be prepared specifically for this purpose, with presentation materials emphasizing the full experience of the Loop, its geography and regions, and the unique festivities, places, heritage, and experiences of each region.

Alabama Gulf Coast Workforce Development Program In an effort to enhance the visitor experience of the Gulf Coast through the tradition of southern hospitality, a partnership developed after months of meetings in response to growing demand. The partnership included regional and local representatives from chambers of commerce, convention and visitors bureaus, the workforce development office of the local community college, and others. The partnership offers training programs on the fundamentals of customer service and the importance of being an ambassador for the region. Conveying the sense of southern hospitality and key messages to visitors was emphasized. The effort has successfully built a network of front line of tourism industry employees focused on hospitality and customer service that aligned with broader campaigns to increase tourism in the region. For more information, visit: http:// www.faulknerstate.edu/community/fivestar/

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Promoting Stewardship and Sustainability Visitors are drawn to the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway to experience the majestic and beautiful scenery, abundant natural areas (see sidebar), wildlife and habitat areas, extensive recreation opportunities, history and culture, and the distinctive rural character and the ways of life throughout each region. There would be no attraction to byway and flow of tourists without the preservation of these qualities.

Many of the intrinsic qualities along the Cascade Loop are already maintained and preserved through land management and land use plans. However, some of these qualities can be negatively affected if visitation is not carefully managed. As such, it will be important for preservation of these characteristics to continue to be a priority along the Cascade Loop for managing jurisdictions—federal land managers, state, counties, cities, and private land owners.

Natural Areas of the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway LAND MOUNTAINS AND GLACIERS FORESTS MEADOWS PRAIRIES SHRUB STEPPE LANDSCAPES WETLANDS AND RIPARIAN AREAS BEACHES AND SHORES

WATER PUGET SOUND RIVERS (INCLUDING RESERVOIRS) STREAMS AND CREEKS LAKES AND PONDS WATERFALLS

ANACORTES FERRY TERMINAL

Starting point for a scenic ride to the San Juan Islands

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Emphasis on Stewardship and Education It is important for visitors to understand why the Cascade Loop experience is special and what they can do to help preserve that experience. Interpretation and promotional activities along the byway should include stewardship and educational messages that help visitors appreciate the exceptional beauty, natural resources, and historic buildings and districts. Encouraging visitor interest in stewardship and preservation of these qualities for future generations will ensure that the experience of the Cascade Loop will become a lasting legacy. Examples of stewardship messages include: Keep the Cascade Loop beautiful and litter-free.

Tread lightly and leave no trace of your visit.

This environment/habitat is fragile—please respect it by picking up after yourself and your pet.

courteous; yield to other users; strive to not disturb the natural ambiance.

Reduce congestion and ride transit where available.

Share the road with bicycles and drive courteously.

Camp in designated spots only; campfires are not allowed in all backcountry areas and seasonal fire restrictions apply. Use established fire rings or pits; keep fires small. Put out fires completely and scatter ashes. Use a stove when possible.

Know the regulations and special concerns for the region you are visiting.

Stay on the trail and avoid fragile areas along the byway, trail, and waterways and in alpine meadows.

Respect wildlife and observe from a distance; never feed wildlife.

Dispose of waste properly—pack it in and pack it out.

Leave what you find where you find it—leave all natural and historical objects as you find them.

Be considerate of other visitors. Be

SKAGIT VALLEY

Home to the Tulip Festival

Residents around the Cascade Loop also are Important Stewards Citizens from throughout all regions around the Cascade Loop travel the byway more than visitors do. The byway often functions as the principal route of travel through communities and it links many important origins and destinations along the way. People who live and work along the Cascade Loop travel it most every day.

The byway is an important part of local residents’ lives, just as they are important to the experience of the byway. Local residents are the most knowledgeable about the cultural and historical stories of their regions. The best approach is to involve local communities and residents in taking on responsibilities to promote and enhance the byway and improve visitor experience. For instance, local residents can be engaged to provide historical tours in byway towns, educating visitors on the importance of the local history.

Residents can also help lead nature hikes, educating visitors on the importance of protecting valuable resources.

Residents who live and work along the Cascade Loop can become some of its most valuable stewards, conveying important messages about preservation and protection of natural resources to visitors. They should be encouraged to become stewards just as much as visitors. Additionally, ongoing byway programs and projects should encourage residents to preserve and enhance the qualities that make the Cascade Loop special not only for visitors, but for themselves too.

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Promoting Sustainable Travel and Geotourism GEOTOURISM, GREEN TOURISM, SUSTAINABLE TOURISM, ECOTOURISM, ECOLOGICAL TOURISM— regardless of the terms used—reflects the principles of sustainability and environmental consciousness that are becoming increasingly important to travelers. Tourism that sustains and enhances the geographic character and ecological balance of a place, including its environment, character, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of local residents, is highly desirable to today’s travelers.

Some of the key geotourism opportunities that exist along the Cascade Loop include:

LEAVENWORTH

The Bavarian village accommodates many visitors

Directing Visitors to the Right Places Another important aspect of byway planning is making sure that while visitor experiences are expanded and enhanced, the rural lifestyles and community settings also are maintained and preserved, and impacts related to increased tourism are minimized. Some popular sites and places can become overwhelmed and degraded through excessive visitation. It is important to direct visitors to the areas that are already set up to accommodate their needs—cities and towns with facilities, services, and accommodations and the parks and recreation places that can handle repeated waves of visitation. To reduce traffic related impacts and congestions, visitors should be encouraged to park and leave their cars behind when in areas that provide transit, biking, and walking opportunities. Educating visitors about environmental stewardship, recreation use etiquette, respecting private property rights, and other messages will be an ongoing need, important for the long term success of the byway.

ECOTOURISM—Focused on responsible and low-impact travel to fragile, pristine, and usually protected areas, ecotourism appeals to ecologically and socially conscious travelers through opportunities to be involved in conservation and environmentally-friendly activities. Ecotourists are often encouraged to volunteer and/or provide funds to benefit local ecological and preservation initiatives. One of the common goals of ecotourism is to offer insight into the impact of human beings on the environment and to foster a greater appreciation of our natural habitats. Responsible ecotourism includes programs that minimize negative aspects of conventional tourism on the environment through promotion of recycling, energy efficiency, water conservation, and creation of economic opportunities for local communities. Local best practices being implemented around the Cascade Loop include responsible wildlife watching, low impact camping and hiking (pack-it-in/ pack-it-out), and the presence of onsite information about resource protection.

AGRITOURISM—Another

TULIP GARDENS

Visitors make their way to the entrance

dimension of geotourism, agritourism involves bringing visitors to farms, orchards, ranches, and other agricultural and rural destinations for an authentic and educational experience. Agritourism has different definitions in different parts of the world, and sometimes refers specifically to farm stays (as in Italy). Elsewhere, agritourism includes a wide variety of activities, including

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buying produce direct from a farm stand, navigating a corn maze, picking fruit, feeding animals, staying at a bed and breakfast on a farm, or enjoying farm-to-table products.

Agritourism is widespread in America, and many areas around the Cascade Loop offer an attractive setting for agritourism interests. Agritourists can choose from a wide range of activities that include picking fruits, visiting and lending a hand at different types of orchards, farms and ranches, riding horses, learning about wine and brewing, engaging in cheesemaking, attending culinary symposiums, and shopping in farm gift shops and at farm stands for local and regional produce or hand-crafted gifts.

VOLUNTOURISM—Volunteer travel and vacations are voluntourism activities that involve volunteering for a charitable cause as part of a travel experience. Types of volunteer vacations are diverse, from low-skill work cleaning up local wildlife areas to high-skill work providing professional services. Voluntourism participants are diverse, but they typically share a desire to “do something good” while also experiencing new places and challenges.

Visitors are becoming more interested in volunteer activities as part of the experience of their vacation. Around the Cascade Loop visitors and residents can get involved in a variety of work for federal land managers (US Forest Service and National Park Service), state parks, and local communities, such as: Clean up and litter removal, Revegetation and native planting projects, Trail building and maintenance,

PYBUS PUBLIC MARKET

A great stop for travelers visiting Wenatchee

Rehabilitation of cultural landscapes and historic structures, and Other ecological and stewardship activities.

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The Geotourism Charter The National Geographic Society has drawn up a “Geotourism Charter” based on 13 principles:

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1. INTEGRITY OF PLACE: Enhance geographical character by developing and improving it in ways distinctive to the locale, reflective of its natural and cultural heritage, so as to encourage market differentiation and cultural pride.

2. INTERNATIONAL CODES: Adhere to the principles embodied in the World Tourism Organization’s Global Code of Ethics for Tourism and the Principles of the Cultural Tourism Charter established by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS).

3. MARKET SELECTIVITY: Encourage growth in tourism market segments most likely to appreciate, respect, and disseminate information about the distinctive assets of the locale.

4. MARKET DIVERSITY: Encourage a full range of appropriate food and lodging facilities, so as to appeal to the entire demographic spectrum of the geotourism market and so maximize economic resiliency over both the short and long term.

5. VISITOR SATISFACTION: Ensure that satisfied, excited geotourists bring new vacation stories home and encourage friends to experience the same thing, thus providing continuing demand for the destination.

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6. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Base tourism on community resources to the extent possible, encouraging local small businesses and civic groups to build partnerships to promote and provide a distinctive, honest (authentic) visitor experience and market their locales effectively. Help businesses develop approaches to tourism that build on the area’s nature, history and culture, including food and drink, artisanry, performance arts, etc.

7. COMMUNITY BENEFIT: Encourage microto medium-size enterprises and tourism business strategies that emphasize economic and social benefits to involved communities, especially poverty alleviation, with clear communication of the destination stewardship policies required to maintain those benefits.

8. PROTECTION AND ENHANCEMENT OF DESTINATION APPEAL: Encourage businesses to sustain natural habitats, heritage sites, aesthetic appeal, and local culture. Prevent degradation by keeping volumes of visitors within maximum acceptable limits. Seek business models that can operate profitably within those limits. Use persuasion, incentives, and legal enforcement as needed.

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9. LAND USE: Anticipate development pressures and apply techniques to prevent undesired overdevelopment and degradation.

Contain resort and vacation-home sprawl, so as to retain a diversity of natural and scenic environments and ensure continued resident access to waterfronts. Encourage major self-contained tourism attractions, such as large-scale theme parks and convention centers unrelated to character of place, to be sited in needier locations with no significant ecological, scenic, or cultural assets.

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12. INTERACTIVE INTERPRETATION: Engage both visitors and hosts in learning about the place. Encourage residents to promote the natural and cultural heritage of their communities so visitors gain a richer experience and residents develop pride in their locales.

13. EVALUATION: Establish an evaluation process to be conducted on a regular basis by an independent panel representing all stakeholder interests, and publicize evaluation results.

10. CONSERVATION OF RESOURCES: Encourage businesses to minimize water pollution, solid waste, energy consumption, water usage, landscaping chemicals, and overly bright nighttime lighting. Advertise these measures in a way that attracts the large, environmentally sympathetic visitors.

11. PLANNING: Recognize and respect immediate economic needs without sacrificing long-term character and the geotourism potential of the destination.

Where tourism attracts in-migration of workers, develop new communities that themselves constitute a destination enhancement. Strive to diversify the economy and limit population influx to sustainable levels. Adopt public strategies for mitigating practices that are incompatible with geotourism and damaging to the image of the destination.

NORTH LAKE

Camper at North Lake in the North Cascades

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The Role of Washington State Department of Transportation The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) manages the sign program along the state highway routes that make up the Cascade Loop, as well as other routes in Washington, to ensure that travelers are provided with the information they need, without adding redundancy and too much detail.

Traveler safety is a principal concern.

WSDOT provides specific guidance for scenic byways in the document Scenic Byway Logo Signing Guidelines, developed in 2007. While excerpts of this guidance are included in this chapter of the corridor management plan, it is recommended that the Cascade Loop Association refer to the WSDOT guidelines with all future sign planning, design, and implementation projects.

Any requests for additional signs or for adding information to existing signs will be required to go through WSDOT, and the agency’s signing specialists will work with byway representatives to implement the signing and wayshowing program for the Cascade Loop.

Before identifying specific signing needs for the byway, it is important to understand the range of questions travelers have, the information they need in response to these questions, and the sequences of their journey, as addressed in the following content of this plan.

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Expanding and Improving Signing and Visitor Wayshowing and Wayfinding Signing along the byway should effectively communicate information to travelers while avoiding negative effects on the scenic values of the corridor and visitor experience.

Signs serve many different functions—they identify, inform, warn, advertise, direct, describe, and explain. Expanding and improving signing will reinforce the byway’s brand identity and help visitors navigate their way throughout all regions of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. Developing a unified and coordinated approach to signing will: Maintain the byway’s scenic character by minimizing visual intrusion, Reinforce the brand identity and sense of continuity of the byway, and Assist travelers in finding their way along the byway and to important destinations.

Signs must be carefully designed and installed in accordance with all applicable requirements to avoid creating hazards to drivers and bicyclists. Unnecessary, superfluous, and redundant signs should be avoided. Where possible, signs should be consolidated at one

location. Signs should identify and provide direction to primary points of interest and intrinsic qualities of the byway in a non-visually intrusive manner.

Regulatory Signing The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) is the universal reference for regulatory signs along highways and roadways in the United States. Because of their importance to traveler safety, regulatory signs must meet specific design standards in the MUTCD, as well as other applicable state requirements. Regulatory signs that serve a safety purpose are already controlled by MUTCD, so this section of the corridor management plan does not address these types of signs. Rather the focus of the guidance in this plan is on the types of signs and wayshowing elements that are discretionary in guiding travelers.

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Effectively Communicating Information to Visitors Effectively communicating information to visitors and guiding them in their travel are essential to a successful scenic byway experience. Engaging visitors starts by helping them identify and navigate the byway. Visitors need to be able to clearly understand where they are at all times. Signing and wayshowing and wayfinding improvements along the byway can help in addressing the following questions:

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

WAYFINDING IS WHAT BYWAY TRAVELERS DO:

WAYSHOWING IS WHAT BYWAY PROVIDERS DO:

SEEING

PROVIDING MAPS, SIGNS AND GRAPHICS

READING

PROVIDING WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS AND MAPS

HEARING

PROVIDING AUDIO GUIDANCE OR PERSONAL GUIDES/ VOLUNTEERS

LEARNING

PROVIDING EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION

How do visitors find the byway?

Where does the byway begin and end?

How much time should be allotted for travel along the byway?

Where should visitors turn to stay on the byway?

How do visitors know they are still on the byway?

What and where are the special places (intrinsic qualities and attractions) located?

Where should visitors stay, eat, learn, have fun, and shop? Where can they find services they might need (restrooms, auto repair, information, etc.)?

Where are visitors when visiting the special places or community hubs along the byway (in what region)?

What is the best direction to travel the Cascade Loop? (Counterclockwise is recommended for maximum scenic experiences.)

What is the Difference between Wayfinding and Wayshowing?

“Wayshowing” and “wayfinding” are common terms used in scenic byway planning and management. Understanding the difference between these terms is important when developing a signing program to serve byway travelers’ needs.

WAYFINDING is the mental process byway travelers go through that turns their goals into decisions, actions, and behaviors. Wayfinding is the act of navigating

the byway and being able to continuously solve problems under uncertainty. The focus is on the byway travelers/visitors and what they are doing.

WAYSHOWING is the communication of information, intentionally implemented by byway providers, to aid travelers in setting desired goals, making decisions, and taking appropriate actions as part of navigating their trip along the byway.

The focus is on the byway hosts and what they are doing to help byway travelers.

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Travelers go through four stages in the process of taking a trip, and the wayshowing process must engage them during each of these stages. Travelers rely on specific tools during each of these stages, and their successful completion of each stage will have a strong influence on their overall experience of the byway.

STAGE 1: PRE-TRIP

“How do we get there?”

Visitors are choosing/selecting the byway they want to visit.

They are then making plans and preparing for their trip. Their tools in this stage may include the Internet, travel brochures, advertisements, maps, and/or information from others.

STAGE 2: EN-ROUTE

“Are we there yet?”

During this stage, visitors are finding their way to the byway.

Their tools in this stage may include signs, GPS systems, cell

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phones, radio programs, maps and brochures, and/or information from places or people along the way to the byway.

Providing an Effective Byway Guidance System

STAGE 3 ON-SITE

This chapter of the corridor management plan focuses primarily on Stages 1, 2, and 3 of the trip-making sequence. Strategies for marketing and promoting the byway, covered later in this chapter pertain primarily to Stages 1 and 2.

“We’re heeeere!”

The Four Stages of Trip Making

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Visitors are navigating their way along the byway and finding its special places. Their tools in this stage may include gateway signs, byway logo signs, directional signing to sites, orientation kiosks/signs on sites, GPS systems, cell phones, radio programs, maps and brochures, podcasts, wayside exhibits (interpretive) and/or information from places or people along the byway.

Focusing on the en-route and on-site stage of the trip, an effective byway guidance system should include: Entrances, exits, and gateways, Orientation stops, Repetitive route markers,

STAGE 4: POST TRIP

“That was a great trip!”

Visitors have found their way back home, and once there they are recalling and reflecting upon their visit. Based on their experience, they may: Return to the byway again.

Visit another byway.

Share their experience with others, and encourage them to visit the byway.

This stage is aided by remembrances from their trip such as maps, brochures, items they purchased, and photos they took.

Directions to planned stops, and Portable byway maps.

In addition, there are a variety of technologies that are carried in automobiles or hand-held by visitors that are now commonly used as travel guides. These include GPS systems, MP3 players, multi-functioning cell phones

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and smart phones with specific “apps” and navigation programs, satellite radio, and other technologies. Travelers are becoming more likely to carry pad-format computers and laptops on their journeys, where they can access travel information, podcasts and stories about places, and other tools.

However, it’s important to note that not all travelers have access to these tools, and until they are universally available, it will continue to be important to provide a basic level of guidance and information to them via signs along the byway and portable maps and brochures. The Cascade Loop’s traveler guidebook is a great tool for this purpose.

Signing and Wayshowing and Recommendations for the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway The Cascade Loop Association will prepare a detailed wayshowing and signing plan as one of the upcoming actions to be implemented from this corridor management plan. The wayshowing and signing plan will include designs for signs for the byway as well as a plan for locating the signs, following the general guidance in this corridor management plan.

Specific recommendations for the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway related to pre-trip, en-

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route, and on-site guidance, including signing and wayshowing elements are provided below.

Pre-trip Guidance There is a wealth of information available to visitors to aid them in planning and preparing for their trip to the Cascade Loop. Byway information is accessible through the Cascade Loop website, as well as websites of many partners throughout each region, and is displayed in the printed traveler guidebook developed annually by the Cascade Loop Association. The state tourism and transportation department websites also include some information about the byway.

With National Scenic Byway designation, information will be made available on additional websites.

The Cascade Loop Association responds to traveler pre-trip inquiries and recommends trip itineraries, in addition to mailing the travel guidebooks to those who request them. All of this pre-trip guidance is critical in helping visitors enjoy their experience and should continue in the future.

En-route and On-Site Guidance

travelers to the official routes of the byway. These signs typically have a green background and must be designed in compliance with WSDOT requirements. The Cascade Loop Scenic Highway logo/emblem should be placed on these signs to enhance the sense of arriving at the scenic byway, along with specific words (such as “State Route 20, Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, ahead”).

GATEWAYS (BYWAY ENTRANCE SIGNS OR MONUMENTS)— The byway may choose to design and install specific signs or monuments, located at gateways and/or orientation hubs along the routes (perhaps at the transition point to each region of the byway or nearby). If space is available for a wayside pulloff area near the gateway, a byway information kiosk could be provided to guide travelers in their journey through each region.

Gateway signs/monuments should include the byway logo attached to a welcome panel or structure, along with identification of the region. There may be landscaping or other features, such as timber columns, stone bases, and other elements installed as part of the gateway feature.

Gateway signs/monuments and kiosks should be consistent in design across the entire byway and recognizable as being part of the Cascade Loop, but should also be designed to blend with the specific setting where they are located (using a context sensitive design approach). They should be attractive, leaving a positive lasting impression with byway visitors.

As travelers make their way to the byway and while traveling along the routes of the Cascade Loop, there are a variety of sign types that can guide them, described below.

A gateway sign exists at the entrance to the Stevens Pass Greenway, which also references the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. It is a large green highway style sign with white lettering. As the Cascade Loop considers expanding a system of gateways for each region, it is recommended that a new design that is more of a monument style be developed.

SUPPLEMENTAL GUIDE SIGNS—There is a need for additional “Cascade Loop Scenic Highway” supplemental guide signs to direct

Examples of gateway signing, trailblazer (scenic byway logo signs) and supplemental guide signing and placement

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guidelines from the WSDOT Scenic Byway Logo Design Guidelines are shown at the top of the next page. The Whidbey Scenic Isle Way gateway sign is shown at right.

Gateway signs may be back-lit, bottom-lit, or reflectorized for night visibility. Where space allows for a wayside and kiosk to be developed, the kiosk should include a map of the entire Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, along with a more detailed map of the specific region the traveler is entering could be displayed on the kiosks. Multi-modal travel routes (main byway, side tours, access to transit as relevant, walking routes, bicycling routes) should be illustrated on the maps.

In addition to the gateways approach to the byway and at each region, providing Cascade Loop Scenic Highway information at regional transportation hubs such as airports, ferry terminals, and visitor information centers in major metropolitan areas may be helpful.

ORIENTATION HUBS WITH KIOSKS—Orientation hubs are the places that visitors expect to find information while enroute or on-site as part of their trip, as well as the places that byway providers offer information to travelers. Orientation hubs should be easily recognizable, easy to find, and located with enough frequency that byway travelers can re-orient themselves along their route. It is common for information kiosks to be located at byway orientation hubs and for these hubs to be located in communities and activity centers along the byway. Orientation hubs may have similar information as gateway locations with a distinctive, recognizable and attractive byway kiosk if space permits. The byway logo should be included on the kiosk, along with maps of the byway (one overall map and one enlarged scale map of the region).

The kiosks should also be designed to display additional visitor information and interpretation pertaining to the region and specific site.

WHIDBEY SCENIC ISLE WAY Gateway Sign

Byway travelers should be able to view the kiosks and learn the locations of the byways guidance system (gateways and orientation hubs) as well as special sites along the byway and the places they can go (in general) for services and accommodations such as lodging, food, restrooms, information, etc.)

Generally, advertising of private businesses is not recommended on these signs (and is not permitted with federally funded signs through the byway program). This is because businesses are always changing, creating the need to update signs more frequently (which can be costly), and there can be appearance of fairness issues with showing some businesses but not others.

BYWAY TRAILBLAZER LOGO SIGNS (REPETITIVE ROUTE MARKERS)—Scenic byway logo signs highlight the significance of the route as a scenic byway to travelers and may also identify it as a historically, culturally, and/or educationally significant route. The selected logo for the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway has already been in use and is found in some locations along the byway.

Note: byway logo signs may also be called route markers, trailblazer or trailmarker logo signs, or confirmation/reassurance signs.

Byway logo signs consist of the byway logo fabricated as a sign and affixed to a standard post sign. The sign may be accompanied by other directional signs affixed to the same

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Supplemental Guide Signs: This type applies the logo at junctions just Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing O R M N A G intersections E M E N T P Lwith A N scenic routes to prepare the traveler prior toAmajor the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop to maneuver.

US 9 Next Left

Supplemental Guide Signing

Gateway Signing Entering Scenic Byway

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Trailblazer Signing

Scenic Byway Scenic Byway

Scenic Byway

Scenic Byway

Scenic Byway Recreation # Area 123 Exit 111

Preferred Signing Layout Preferred Signing Layout

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Appendix A.5

Preferred Signing Layout Directional Route and Confirmation Signing

Directional Route and Confirmation Signing

LEGEND Scenic Byway Logo Sign Types = Scenic Byway Route

Figure 1

LEGEND = Scenic Byway Route

= Scenic Byway Logo Sign

The purpose of byway logo signing is to identify the scenic route for the traveler, supplementing maps, brochures, and promotional materials that attract them to the byway. The sign types detailed above mark the route Confirmation signing so travelers can easily find their way. See Appendices A.5 and A.6 for more specific information on sign layout and assembly.

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Scenic Byway Route marking Scenic Byway

cenic Byway Logo Signing Guidelines M 3001.02 JCT ebruary 2007 Scenic Byway

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*Supplemental guide sign may be used on any Interstate highway only if the Scenic Byway junctions with the interstate and only if there is sufficient space to install this sign per the MUTCD and WSDOT Traffic Manual requirements.

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Scenic Byway Logo A scenic byway logo is defined as an emblem with a unique combination of words, colors, images, etc., that identifies a scenic byway and symbolizes the “essence� of the route. The logo should be based on a theme that characterizes the primary natural, historical, and/or cultural resources that are responsible for making the route special and unique.

The logo should visually communicate the identity quickly and clearly. With public awareness and familiarity, the logo can become a marketing tool to promote the corridor and its resources.

The logo can provide an instant association between the route and marketing publications that promote the scenic byway and the special characteristics of the area.

Source: WSDOT Scenic Byway Logo Sign Design Guidelines

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post. The minimum suggested size for the sign is 24 inches by 24 inches per WSDOT byway sign design guidelines (unless route marker signs are the smaller 18 inches by 18 inches along the specific route, in which case the byway logo sign should match that size).

Logo signs should be reflectorized for night visibility. The signs should be installed along the edges of the roadways of the byway, similarly to other directional signs. For the marine route between Clinton and Mukilteo, it may be possible to display the byway logo sign onboard the ferries in cooperation with Washington State Ferries.

Also in accordance with WSDOT scenic byway sign standards, the logo sign should be placed along the byway at intervals of about 5 to 10 miles. Where possible, logo signs can be added to existing sign posts that already hold a directional sign. Consolidating signs along the byway will help to minimize visual intrusion.

In addition to the logo sign/route markers along the byways, it is also advisable to provide directional signing on roadways leading up to the byway (upon approach to the junction with the byway). These scenic byway route marker signs with arrows alert travelers that they are approaching the byway and that they should turn at the junction to follow the byway route.

WHIDBEY SCENIC ISLE WAY Logo design and trailblazer sign

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Existing Logo Signs along the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway In the process of developing this corridor management plan, locations of existing Cascade Loop logo signs were documented along the routes in every region. It was confirmed that logo signs exist in Regions 3, 4, 5, and 6, but not in other regions of the Loop (as shown in the map on the next page). There is one gateway sign on US Highway/SR 2 as a combined gateway to the Cascade Loop and Stevens Pass Greenway.

Many of the logo signs that do exist have been in place for decades and are fading or damaged. As the Cascade Loop considers upgrading the full system of signing throughout all regions, it would be advisable to replace the older existing signs.

Design Concepts for Cascade Loop Signs Design concepts were developed to show how Cascade Loop Scenic Highway signs could be combined with the names and wayshowing colors of each region. Some concepts explored creating a family of logos that would represent each region. Options were developed for Regions 6 through 9 to demonstrate possible

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design approaches, and these are provided on the pages 5-25 through 5-28.

These design concepts were presented at the public workshop sessions held in communities along the Cascade Loop in summer 2013. Workshop participants shared their perspectives and comments on the design concepts. Most participants preferred that the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway logo be the predominant image on signs all around the Loop (as shown in the “C” examples on the concept pages). Participants also favored the approach of showing the region by color and name on the byway signs.

Because the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway includes multiple regions including separately designated scenic byways, a consistent signing approach that identifies the Cascade Loop while also indicating individual regions/ segments is needed. Byway routes that are already designated (Stevens Pass Greenway, North Cascades Scenic Byway, and Whidbey Scenic Isle Way), should continue to carry their own individual logo signs. Cascade Loop signs would be installed in addition to these, but placed with care to avoid sign clutter.

The WSDOT Scenic Byway Logo Signing Guidelines state that only one logo per sign is allowed to avoid traveler confusion. This requirement is meant to ensure that travelers are not confused by multiple messages. In addition, a single byway logo is more likely to

inspire confidence and achieve the desired outcome of byway identification. Multiple logos may be displayed on gateway signs only. Gateway signs provide a singular opportunity to educate the traveler about multiple logos and route identities. The transition between byways and coinciding labels should be made clear on gateway signs.

The design concepts provided can be referenced for development of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway Signing and Wayshowing Plan, which will be a follow-on action after completion of the corridor management plan. It may be possible to adapt an approach that incorporates a family of logos for the byway for gateway signs indicated in the design concepts and expanded for all regions. These place-based logo designs could then be used for other marketing and collateral materials (posters, hats, mugs, etc.).

Design of wayfinding logo signs and other types of signs along the byway will need to be closely coordinated with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to ensure compliance with the agency’s requirements. Font size, color choices, and other elements need to be coordinated to WSDOT to ensure consistency with their standards and that they color choices do not conflict with colors used on regulatory signs, which could send mixed signals to travelers. Ongoing coordination and communication with WSDOT on sign plan development, design of signs, and implementation of the sign plan (including in-the-field placement of signs) will be crucial.

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Locations of Existing Cascade Loop Scenic Highway Logo Signs, 2014

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Trailblazer Signing Concepts for Region 6 - The Methow Valley

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Trailblazer Signing Concepts for Region 7 - North Cascades

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Trailblazer Signing Concepts for Region 8 - Skagit Valley and Fidalgo Island

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Trailblazer Signing Concepts for Region 9 - Whidbey Scenic Isle Way

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ADVANCE WARNING SIGNS AND

DIRECTIONAL SIGNS TO SPECIAL PLACES AND ORIENTATION HUBS— These signs direct and orient visitors to their destinations along the land routes of the byway, assisting with wayfinding and identifying points of interest located along the byway or off the main route. (For example, side tour routes can be signed through directional signing placed on the byway in advance of the turn off points). Directional signs identify recreational opportunities, visitor services and facilities, cultural and historic sites, and other destinations and attractions along

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the byway, such as parks and museums.

Directional signs can be installed in advance of byway information/orientation hubs and key sites along the land routes of the byway.

Brown and white recreational signs (and blue and white traveler information signs) are included in this category. These signs are typically placed in advance of these sites and sometimes include a reference to the distance to the point of interest (i.e. “Heritage Marker - 1/4 mile ahead” with an arrow).

Avoiding too much sign clutter and visual intrusion of the landscape is an important

concern. As such, placement of directional signs must be judicious. These signs should be designed and installed to be as non-intrusive to views and visual qualities as possible, while still being effective. Consider painting the back of these signs in a non-reflective neutral color, such as brown.

To avoid sign clutter, directions to less prominent destinations and attractions could be provided in brochures, pamphlets, and other information available at visitor information centers.

SIGNS AT SPECIAL PLACES AND ATTRACTIONS ALONG THE BYWAY/SITE MARKERS—There are many special places and attractions along the byway. These are the places that will truly engage visitors in the experience of the byway and leave a lasting memory. These sites can be more directly linked with the Cascade loop Scenic Highway in a number of ways: Byway logos (small versions) can be provided on existing site signs or on new signs or interpretive displays developed at the site.

The sites can be identified as special places along the byway in byway maps and brochures and on websites.

Site markers, such as boulders or timber posts with small byway logos or simplified elements from the logo engraved or affixed as emblems can be located near the entrance to each site.

INTERPRETIVE SIGNS AND HISTORIC/HERITAGE MARKERS— Interpretive signs, panels, and kiosks communicate something about special places and events that either currently exists or that existed in the past along the corridor. Interpretive signs are typically tied together through design and visual character to reflect an overall theme for the byway. They should be designed with a unifying style that is recognizable as a continuous element throughout the byway.

LAKES TO LOCKS PASSAGE SCENIC BYWAY

Example of scenic byway route marker signs in upstate New York

Interpretive signs and the structures that support the signs should be constructed of materials that complement the natural and cultural elements unique to the byway.

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

Interpretive signs should be responsive to context, setting, and special qualities of the sites, yet still provide unity to the overall byway.

Historic/heritage markers include signs or monuments that have been installed to mark an historical event. These signs usually provide less detail and illustration than an interpretive sign/ panel. A system of historical signs or plaques can be designed to reflect the character of the era to which they relate.

Interpretive wayside exhibits are an excellent medium to tell travelers about the intrinsic value of the corridor. Multiple exhibits throughout the byway can be used to link various sites together through a strong theme and consistent design.

Interpretive information can also be displayed on larger kiosks, along with traveler information and maps.

The byway logo can be included in a smaller size on the interpretive display infrastructure. Displays should use a consistent color scheme, format and type style. Design of interpretive panels and displays within National Park Service would need to comply with the National Park Service Wayside Design Guidelines, which also include standards related to accessibility. Signs located within US Forest Service areas, state parks, and on other publicly-managed lands will need to be designed and installed in accordance with the requirements of those agencies. Signs located within cities and towns are often subject to additional sign regulations of the city code.

BYWAY MAPS—Visitors should be able to mentally embed or visualize the byway route as they travel along it. They should have a “cognitive map” of the byway in their heads as part of their experience. As such it is highly recommended that byway map graphics be developed in a similar style and be displayed repeatedly along the byway. North should always be positioned at the top or upper side of the maps for consistent visitor orientation.

At each gateway, orientation hub, and key site along the byway where maps are displayed (such as on kiosks), a prominent

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“you are here” label should be provided to orient visitors to where they are on the land route. Maps should also be displayed onboard the ferries, with prominent features visible from the ferry routes labeled so that visitors can discern where they are along the marine passage route.

In addition to static displays of the map along the byway, byway maps should continue to be made available on websites. This allows visitors to engage in pre-trip planning, and they can choose to print the maps to carry them along their trip as well. Continuation of print version byway maps in the travel guidebook will also be important. Portable byway maps to guide and orient visitors during a trip are essential.

Additional Guidance Related to Signing A minimalistic approach should be taken with installation of new signs along the scenic byway.

Only those absolutely necessary to communicate the byway identity and notify travelers of important sites should be provided (such as byway logo route markers and trailhead signs).

All signs should be easy to read and should clearly convey the intended information. Signs must be carefully designed and installed in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal requirements to avoid creating hazards to drivers and bicyclists.

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Any new or additional signs added along the byway should be carefully designed and placed to minimize intrusions on the scenic experience. They should be attractive, as well as informational and effective.

To avoid sign clutter, unnecessary, superfluous, and redundant signs should be avoided. Where possible, signs should be consolidated at one location. Signs should identify and provide direction to points of interest and intrinsic qualities of the byway, but not necessarily all places and businesses along the corridor. Existing signs that are redundant and ineffective should be removed, consolidated, or improved.

Where possible and practical, multiple signs should be located on a single sign post, as long as the information presented still conveys a clear message. With replacement of signs as part of ongoing maintenance, new signs should be consolidated as feasible.

Compliance with Outdoor Advertising Controls The Federal Highway Administration requires outdoor advertising controls for designated scenic byways and specifically prohibits billboards along scenic byways.

In Washington, the Scenic Vistas Act of 1971, Chapter 47.42 RCW and Chapter 469-66 WAC,

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was enacted to promote and protect the natural beauty of areas adjacent to officially designated state scenic and recreational highways, as well as primary and interstate highways. The purpose of the Scenic Vistas Act was to promote the public health, safety, welfare, convenience, and enjoyment of public travel. The existence of the Scenic Vistas Act ensures that the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway will be in compliance with the FHWA requirement of no billboards and the presence of outdoor advertising controls. Local regulations at the county and city level also regulate outdoor advertising.

In addition to Scenic Vistas Act requirements, state scenic, primary and interstate highways must comply with the Highway Beautification Act, Title 23 U.S.C., Section 131 (signs along the marine highway system are subject to these requirements).

On-premise advertising signs are specifically regulated by the Scenic Vistas Act. An onpremise sign advertises an activity conducted on the property on which the sign is located.

This type of sign is limited to identifying the establishment, or the principal or additional products or services offered on the property.

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Other Applicable Sign Regulations In addition to the federal and state laws related to the placement of outdoor advertising that are administered by the Washington State Department of Transportation, cities and counties regulate signing and advertising through local ordinances.

All property owners are expected to comply with local, state, and federal regulations for outdoor advertising control along the corridor. Compliance with outdoor advertising requirements, in accordance with the provisions of the Scenic Vistas Act and other signing regulations, is verified by local authorities and WSDOT outdoor advertising inspectors and maintenance workers on a regular basis.

For more information related to existing advertising and signing controls and guidelines, refer to: WSDOT Highway Advertising Control: Scenic Vistas Act WSDOT Highway Advertising Control: Motorist Information Signs WSDOT Scenic Byway Logo Signing Guidelines Local county and city code requirements pertaining to signing design and installation

Signing and Wayshowing Master Planning and Implementation Process The following steps are recommended for developing a Wayshowing and Signing Master Plan/Program for the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway: 1. Pursue funding for development of the signing and

wayshowing master plan and implementation of the signing and wayshowing program (could be funded in two phases).

2. Confirm byway logo design and branding identity desired,

including how each region can be identified in the sign design.

3. Confirm the design of kiosks, gateway signs, site signs, and other

types of signs and features to be installed along the byway.

4. Assign a “Signing and Wayshowing” subcommittee for the

byway with members who can focus on signing analysis, needs, and design suggestions.

5. Confirm the inventory of existing signs along the byway and

identify redundancies, unnecessary signs, damaged signs that need to be replaced, and additional signing needs.

6. Develop a coordinated signing and wayshowing master plan

that includes adding, consolidating, and removing signs.

7. Coordinate with the Washington State Department of

Transportation to confirm specific design requirements and procedures for fabrication and installation of byway logo signs, gateway signs, supplemental guide signs, and advance warning signs.

8. Coordinate with Washington State Ferries on desirable

displays and information to be provided onboard the ferries and at the ferry terminals in Clinton and Mukilteo.

9. Coordinate with the National Park Service, US Forest Service,

Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, and

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

local counties and cities to ensure the sign program is developed in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local requirements and to address signing and wayshowing needs that land managers may have for their sites.

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Benefits of Implementing the Signing and Wayshowing Program

10. Coordinate the design, fabrication, and installation of the

signs, gateway features, and other elements. As designs are developed, evaluate and confirm that the designs represent the character and experience of your byway in an effective and professional manner. Make sure the appropriate level of information is provided and avoid trying to provide too much information. Obtain necessary permits and approval for installation of signs and gateway monuments.

11. Continue ongoing coordination with WSDOT and other

jurisdictions related to sign maintenance.

12. Periodically survey byway visitors to monitor the success

of the Signing and Wayshowing Program to answer the following questions: Are visitors able to find their way to and from and along the byway Do they understand what key sites are part of the byway experience?

Is the byway identity being conveyed strongly enough?

Is directional signage sufficient to alert and safely lead byway travelers to approaching attractions or to side roads leading to byway destinations?

Are scenic byway logo signs/route markers placed at a frequent enough interval?

Are there conveniently located places where travelers can stop and view maps to become oriented to the byway?

Implementing a signing and wayshowing program will provide travelers and residents with an informative and attractive series of signs and wayshowing features along the byway that will supplement the existing signs, including existing regulatory and advisory signs. Consolidation of existing and potential future signs will help to minimize visual intrusion. Use of byway logo on trailblazer signs, gateway signs, kiosks, and other elements will reinforce the identity of the scenic byway and make visitors aware they are on the scenic byway.

Proposed Signing and Interpretive Projects for the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway Following is a more detailed work plan for proposed projects involving planning, designing, and implementing signing and interpretive improvements along the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. These projects may be some of the first activities that the Cascade Loop Association proceeds with after development of this corridor management plan. These projects are also listed in the

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Action Plan in Chapter 6 as high priority actions to be completed.

Four major projects/elements are anticipated: Preparation of a signing and wayshowing master plan with sign design templates Preparation of an interpretive master plan with design templates and guidelines Implementation of the signing and wayshowing improvements recommended in the master plan (9 gateway signs/monuments, 54 byway logo signs, and 20 guide signs) Implementation of a Cascade Loop interpretive waysides project (interpretive and information kiosks at specific locations, perhaps one in each region of the Cascade Loop/nine locations total) There are benefits related to completing both the signing and wayshowing master plan and the interpretive master plan as one planning effort, including facilitating a coordinated approach to signing. However, these could be completed as separate projects or in phases, depending on available funding.

Implementation will involve final design and fabrication, permitting and approvals, and installation/construction of interpretive, wayshowing, and signing elements along the Cascade Loop.

Implementation costs will be higher than plan development because they include materials and labor for constructing elements such as

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kiosks, gateway signs, and trailblazer logo signs, as well as regulatory and environmental costs associated with installation.

Purpose and Goals The overall purpose for completing these projects would be to create more memorable and lasting impression of the Cascade Loop, improve visitor orientation, and broaden awareness of the full experience of the Cascade Loop, promoting the opportunities associated with all nine regions and encouraging visitors to extend their stay for multiple days. Key goals include the following: Create a cohesive identity throughout the Cascade Loop so that visitors understand where they are and that they are enjoying one part of a whole experience.

Aid visitors in navigating the multiple routes and regions of the Loop.

Build and strengthen the Cascade Loop brand name.

Provide interpretive and educational opportunities for visitors associated with the unique qualities and resources of each of the nine regions.

Identify site-specific interpretive themes and opportunities that fit within the overall themes of the byway.

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Specific Work Plan for the Signing and Wayshowing Master Plan and Design Templates This component of work will cover development of a detailed signing and wayshowing master plan as well as design templates for scenic byway logo and gateway signs to be installed along the Cascade Loop. The templates will provide the graphic design and layout for the interpretive and information panels, as well as design development details for bases, stands, kiosks, and other infrastructure proposed to support interpretation at sites along the Loop.

Suggested Master Plan Outline It is recommended that the wayshowing master plan include the following information: I. Purpose of the Master Plan and Overall Goals (Linked with CMP Goals) a. Overall purpose of the plan b. Desired outcomes and goals that will be achieved with plan implementation II. Planning Process a. Overview of the process and steps to create the plan b. Schedule/timeline c. Participants/Contributors

III. Public Involvement and Community Outreach a. Activities during the planning process b. Summary of input and ideas received IV. Visitor Analysis a. Characterized based on existing data and information b. Demographics and characteristics of visitors c. Needs and expectations of visitors V. Existing Conditions Summary (drawn from corridor management plan) a. The overall experience of the Cascade Loop b. Nine regions—a summary of each c. Summary and mapping of existing signing inventory (from CMP) VI. Proposed Signing and Wayshowing Network (drawn from corridor management plan) a. Network/framework for wayshowing including signs, gateways, and other guide signs along the Loop, following the WSDOT Scenic Byway Signing Guidelines VII. Wayshowing and Signing Program and Project Recommendations a. Proposed logo sign locations (every ten miles minimum and supplemental guide signs), estimated costs and approval installation process b. Proposed gateway sign/monument locations (at entrance/exit of each region), estimated costs, and approval/installation process VIII. Design Guidelines and Templates a. Contextual analysis for each region b. Design templates (tying in with interpretive master plan design guidelines and templates) c. Design development details for sign installation

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

d. Other important information and considerations related to implementation (checklist) IX. Monitoring and Evaluation Procedures a. Procedures for periodic review of on-the-ground signage and replacement b. Determining the ongoing success of the plan X. Appendix a. References and resources, including WSDOT Scenic Byway Signing Guidelines

Suggested Process TASK 1—Project Kick-off and Ongoing Project Management and Coordination TASK 2—Public, Stakeholder, and Community Engagement (assumes workshops with stakeholders and public meetings in each region) TASK 3—Review of Existing Conditions and Background Plan TASK 4—Identify Wayshowing Needs and Locations for Signing TASK 5—Develop Preliminary Draft Wayshowing Master Plan TASK 6—Advance to Draft Wayshowing Master Plan TASK 7—Finalize Signing and Wayshowing Master Plan

Deliverables Preliminary draft signing and wayshowing master plan and design templates for Cascade Loop board review Draft signing and wayshowing master plan and design templates for public review Final signing and wayshowing master plan and design templates for posting online and reference during implementation

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Presentation materials for stakeholder workshops and public meetings to present preliminary draft master plan

Schedule The above work could be accomplished within 9 to 12 months.

Specific Work Plan for the Interpretive Master Plan and Design Templates This component of work will cover development of a detailed interpretive master plan as well as design templates for interpretive kiosks and wayside displays to be installed along the Cascade Loop. The templates will provide the graphic design and layout for the interpretive and information panels, as well as design development details for bases, stands, kiosks, and other infrastructure proposed to support interpretation at sites along the Cascade Loop.

Suggested Master Plan Outline It is recommended that the interpretive master plan include the following information.

I. Purpose of the Master Plan and Overall Goals (Linked with CMP Goals) a. Overall purpose of the plan b. Desired outcomes and goals that will be achieved with plan implementation

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II. Planning Process a. Overview of the process and steps to creating the plan b. Schedule/timeline c. Participants/Contributors III. Public Involvement and Community Outreach a. Activities during the planning process b. Summary of input and ideas received IV. Visitor Analysis (Interpretive Audience) a. Characterized based on existing data and information b. Demographics and characteristics of visitors c. Needs and expectations of visitors V. Existing Conditions Summary (drawn from the corridor management plan) a. The overall experience of the Cascade Loop b. Nine regions—a summary of each c. Key interpretive sites in each region VI. Network of Interpretive Opportunities and Interpretive Themes a. Network of interpretive opportunities – framework for interpretation b. Overarching themes for each region c. Site specific themes for key locations VII. Interpretive Program and Project Recommendations/Action Plan a. Overall Interpretive Recommendations for the Cascade Loop: Programs and Strategies

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b. Project and Site Specific Recommendations for the next 10 years (Project and Activity Summaries, Cost Estimates, and Anticipated Permitting Requirements) c. Materials, Media and Design Precepts for Each Project d. Staffing and Volunteer Support for Each Project as Known/Applicable e. Partnership Arrangements and Funding Opportunities for Implementation of Each Project (often formatted in a matrix) VIII. Design Guidelines and Templates a. Contextual analysis for each region b. Elements of continuity for entire Cascade Loop for interpretive graphics and infrastructure c. Elements of distinction for each region for interpretive graphics and infrastructure d. Specific design templates (graphics, colors, fonts, etc.) for interpretive and informational panels (color and font palette; graphic resources list) e. Design development details for structures, kiosks, materials, finishes, and maintenance (materials palette) f. Other important guidance related to design and installation (checklist) IX. Monitoring and Evaluation Procedures a. Procedures for periodic on-the-ground review and replacement b. Determining the ongoing success of the plan

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X. Appendix a. References and Resources

Suggested Process TASK 1—Project Kick-off and Ongoing Project Management and Coordination TASK 2—Public, Stakeholder, and Community Engagement (assumes workshops with stakeholders and public meetings in each region) TASK 3—Review of Existing Conditions and Background Plan TASK 4—Identify Interpretive Opportunities and Themes TASK 5—Develop Preliminary Draft Interpretive Master Plan TASK 6—Advance to Draft Interpretive Master Plan TASK 7—Finalize Interpretive Master Plan

Deliverables Preliminary draft interpretive master plan and design templates for Cascade Loop board review

Schedule The above work could be accomplished within 9 to 12 months.

If the interpretive master plan is completed concurrently with the signing and wayshowing master plan, the full estimated schedule for completion would be 12 to 15 months.

Specific Work Plan for the Implementation of Signing and Wayshowing Improvements Suggested Process TASK 1—Project Kick-off and Ongoing Project Management and Coordination TASK 2—Faciliate Maintenance Agreement with WSDOT if Applicable TASK 3—Permitting and Approvals; Coordination with WSDOT Review sign locations with WSDOT; make adjustments as needed Conduct environmental review; cultural and natural resources assessment Obtain necessary permits as applicable TASK 4—Finalize Sign Panel Graphics and Coordinate Fabrication

Draft interpretive master plan and design templates for public review

Create production-ready sign panel graphics for logo signs, supplemental guide signs, and gateway signs

Near final interpretive master plan for Loop board review

Coordinate fabrication by sign shop (WSDOT or other); confirm WSDOT costs for fabrication

Final interpretive master plan and design templates for posting online and reference during implementation Presentation materials for public meetings to present preliminary draft master plan

TASK 5—Coordinate and Oversee Sign Installation (by WSDOT or Private Contractor) Confirm WSDOT installation procedures; could be provided as in-kind match for grant if WSDOT agrees; confirm WSDOT costs for installation

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Final design and construction documents

TASK 2—Identify Site Locations and Organize Agreements with Public Land Owners (Such as WSDOT, US Forest Service, NPS, Local Jurisdictions, etc.)

Permitting and approvals and environmental compliance work

TASK 3—Permitting and Approvals for Each Site

Anticipated Deliverables Project management and mobilization

54 trailblazer logo signs (44 for Cascade Loop @ one every ten miles plus ten extra to have in stock)

Conduct environmental review; cultural and natural resources assessment

20 supplemental guide signs for entering routes to the Loop 9 gateway signs/monuments

Obtain necessary permits as applicable

Schedule The above work could be accomplished within 10 to 12 months, assuming that signs are installed in already disturbed areas.

Specific Work Plan for the Implementation of Phase 1 of the Interpretive Master Plan This project, as Phase 1 of implementing the interpretive master plan, would involve design and installation of distinctive kiosks for information and interpretation located in nine different places along the Cascade Loop (one in each region). It is assumed that the kiosks would allow for double-sided viewing and would support four large graphic panels (two on each side). Some minimal paving or accessibility improvements are assumed around the base of each kiosk, but for the most part sites that are already improved would be selected for the kiosk locations (such as existing visitor waysides/overlooks, safety rest areas, etc.).

Suggested Process TASK 1—Project Kick-off and Ongoing Project Management and Coordination

TASK 4—Finalize Sign Panel Graphics and Coordinate Fabrication Create production-ready sign panel graphics for interpretive and information panels (four panels at least 30” x 40” size) Coordinate fabrication by interpretive panel vendor TASK 5—Coordinate and Oversee Installation of Kiosks/Waysides Improvements Sign Installation by Private Contractor

Anticipated Deliverables Nine double sided kiosks – uniquely designed to convey Cascade Loop character and reflect the context of each region; for each kiosk assume: Final of four graphic panels for each Fabrication of four graphic panels and delivery Materials and labor for construction of kiosks and minor site improvements Project management, permitting and approvals for each site as well as coordinating the bidding process

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Schedule The above work could be accomplished within 10 to 12 months assuming that kiosks and displays are installed in already disturbed areas.

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Telling the Stories of the Cascade Loop through Interpretation The full history and interesting stories of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway have yet to unfold through dynamic and vivid interpretive opportunities.

Natural and cultural events across millennia shaped the unique sense of place here. From the natural history that created the Cascades and its diverse ecosystems on the west and east sides of the crest, to the cultural heritage of the Coast Salish and the interior Columbia Plateau tribes, to the early exploration and pioneer settlements leading up to today’s scenic and recreational opportunities and unique aspects of places along the Cascade Loop, the stories of the byway are complex and interrelated.

The recommendations for interpretation and improvements at sites along the scenic byway presented in this section of the corridor management plan include ideas and suggestions for communicating the many interesting stories of the Cascade Loop. These interpretive activities and site improvements will enhance experiences and build lasting memories for those who travel the byway.

The byway eventually intends to develop a detailed interpretive master plan, and the information in this section of the corridor management plan will provide a foundation for that future work.

The Purpose of Interpretation and Guiding Principles Interpretation is the process of providing opportunities for people to personally and meaningfully connect with a place. Each person may connect in a different way. Some may connect immediately, while others may reflect on their experience later as part of their memory of the place. Through missionbased communication, interpretation forges emotional and intellectual connections between the audience (in this case byway travelers) and meanings inherent to the resources along the byway. Interpretation can be conveyed through a variety of tools and methods to help inspire these connections and make them memorable.

The most effective interpretation translates information universally, so that it can be understood by people of all age groups and abilities.

Interpretation should be creative, enjoyable, and interactive, conveyed through a variety of media including exhibits, visitor centers, electronic media technologies, audio/visual productions, publications, and personnel services such as guided hikes and tours. Interpretation can also help inspire

an appreciation for the unique resources along the Cascade Loop and the need for their protection and preservation. Stewardship messages such as “leave no trace” and “tread lightly” can be integrated with interpretive messages.

Paul H. Risk, of Yale University, defines interpretation as:

“the translation of the technical or unfamiliar language of the environment into lay language, with no loss in accuracy, in order to create and enhance sensitivity, awareness, understanding, appreciation, and commitment.”

Risk further states that “the goal of interpretation is a change in behavior of those for whom we interpret.”

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

Interpretation in the National Park Service Interpretation is a core service provided in national parks across America. The National Park Service is guided by three tenets, or general principles in providing interpretation: Tenet 1 - Historic and cultural resources possess meanings and have significance.

Tenet 2 - The visitor is seeking something of value for themselves.

Tenet 3 - Interpretation, then, facilitates a connection between the interests of the visitor and the meanings of the resource.

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In his early and influential study, Interpreting Our Heritage, Freeman Tilden defined interpretation as:

“an educational activity which aims to reveal meanings and relationships through the use of original objects, by first-hand experience, and by illustrative media, rather than simply to communicate factual information.”

Tilden explained that interpretation begins with facts and information, but then goes on to explore what those facts mean and how they relate to our everyday world. It uses spoken, written, and visual language to help the public see more clearly. Interpretation clarifies, explains, and even decodes and deciphers so the observer can begin to understand another time or generation. For Tilden, the goal of interpretation is “provocation.” Good interpretation raises questions and encourages visitors to seek for themselves the information they need to understand what they are seeing.

This understanding leads to appreciation, which, in turn, leads to protection.

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Improving Site Conditions to Support Interpretation Along the Cascade Loop, sites where interpretation will be provided via outdoor displays may also need various improvements.

For example, interpretation should be fully accessible to the traveling public, and as such should be located on firm, stable surfaces that are accessible to people in wheelchairs.

Improving site conditions at these key locations where the stories of the byway will be conveyed is important. Providing a sufficient level of facilities and services for visitors will help to: Ensure a positive experience of the Cascade Loop and inspire an appreciation for the byway; Make people feel welcome and encourage them to return; and Enhance the process of learning and engagement between people and resources.

In many cases, the land managers who own and maintain key sites along the Cascade Loop (such as the National Park Service and US Forest Service) have adopted management and interpretive plans that provide guidance for interpretation and that assess and prioritize the needs for improvements to facilities. These plans should be referenced with future development of the interpretive master plan and with future implementation of interpretive projects.

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Central Interpretive Themes An interpretive theme is a tool that helps interpreters reach their audience and express focused messages to help visitors understand.

Well-defined interpretive themes are critical in providing meaningful and effective interpretive experiences for visitors.

By focusing interpretation around themes, interpreters hope to inspire the audience to know that the resource is meaningful and to feel that its preservation matters.

The central interpretive themes also represent an opportunity to unify interpretation throughout the byway. By implementing individual interpretive projects that convey these themes, but in unique, context-driven ways specific to each site and its resources, visitors will gain a cohesive experience. Key messages will be reinforced, helping to make their experience more memorable and meaningful.

The following central interpretive themes have evolved from the corridor management planning process for the Cascade Loop, based on public input and review of existing interpretive plans developed for National Park Service sites and the existing designated byways around the Cascade Loop. These central interpretive themes can be referenced as themes to link interpretive experiences across regions as part of providing a cohesive experience of the byway.

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THE CASCADE LOOP’S DIVERSE

LANDSCAPES, ECOSYSTEMS, AND SCENIC EXPERIENCES ARE THE RESULT OF NATURAL HISTORY AS WELL AS NATURAL PROCESSES THAT ARE VISUALLY APPARENT. The west and east sides of the Cascades are vastly different and this diversity influences the scenic and recreational experiences of the Cascade Loop. The natural history and biodiversity of the regions are shaped by climate and weather conditions (such as the wetter, more temperate climate on the west side and arid conditions and more severe temperatures on the east side). These conditions influence the ways of life and industries in each region of the byway.

ACCESSIBLE NATURE From wildlife watching to scenic views of the Cascades, and recreational experiences in the diverse natural areas and waterways of every region of the Cascade Loop, visitors have immediate access to nature. This access inspires a sense of stewardship and a commitment to geotourism principles.

SIGNS OF RESILIENCY ARE VISIBLE IN THE

LIVING LANDSCAPES ACROSS THE CASCADES. From the Native American tribes who adapted to conditions on each side of the mountains, to later pioneers and settlers, adaptability and resiliency have been important in the success of communities throughout the Cascade Loop. Today’s vibrant cities, towns, and living and working

landscapes along the byway demonstrate this resiliency. The history of many of the communities around the Cascade Loop provide a window to the past ways of life that have led to the survival and longevity of these places.

CASCADE LOOP VISITORS CAN ENJOY AUTHENTIC

WILDERNESS EXPERIENCES, AS WELL AS A WIDE VARIETY OF RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES—THERE IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE ON THE CASCADE LOOP. Adventure seekers have access to extraordinary outdoor recreation opportunities. There are plenty of year-round recreation activities accessible to people of all ages and abilities throughout all regions of the Loop.

CULTURE AND HISTORY IN EVERY REGION HAVE BEEN

SHAPED BY THE PROXIMITY OF THE CASCADES. Today, we continue a long history of human life—for thousands of years people have found refuge, sustenance, challenge, tragedy, and inspiration in the Cascades.

HUNDREDS OF FESTIVALS Festivals and events are part of the experience of every region of the byway. Visitors can enjoy celebrations throughout the year in the cities and towns along the Cascade Loop.

LOCAL, AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES HIGHLIGHT REGIONAL

DIVERSITY AND LEAD TO LASTING MEMORIES OF THE CASCADE LOOP. Access to local ways of life through agritourism (visiting farmstands and wine tours), culinary tourism (farm-totable eateries), voluntourism (trail building) and other experiences along the Cascade Loop inspire an appreciation for the uniqueness of each region and lead to positive lasting memories of the byway.

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

Interpretive Media Options The most effective interpretation makes places come alive through brief and powerful communications. The best interpretation immediately gets to the core ideas —what is really significant and compelling about a place. It is important to avoid the tendency to over-interpret. Too many exhibits, signs, and displays and an over-abundance of non-historic elements placed at a site can detract from the experience by overwhelming people with too much information. This can inadvertently draw their focus and attention away from the place they are trying to experience. Interpretation should be just enough to inspire our imagination. The best interpretation leaves us wanting to learn more, wanting to explore further, and wanting to return again.

Interpretive media and the tools and methods that aid interpretation are constantly evolving. Advances in technology that allow people to carry hand-held devices to access information over the Internet and to download specific programs are rapidly changing the face of interpretation and the way we experience natural and cultural destinations. While traditional means such as static interpretive displays and brochures can be effective, the use of electronic technologies offers long-term opportunities for more sustainable ways to tell the byway’s stories. Descriptions of various types of interpretive media are provided in the following paragraphs.

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Interpretive Panels/Displays Thematically-designed interpretive panels can identify, describe, and illustrate a variety of site-specific messages. The best interpretive displays are highly illustrative, relying more on pictures and graphics to tell the stories than extensive text. Maps and photographs integrated into these displays help connect people to the places they are learning about.

There are a variety of technologies available for creating interpretive panels and displays, including digital methods that are very cost effective and can be easily updated and refreshed over time.

Interpretive panels can be displayed in a number of ways, including on low-profile pedestals and upright kiosks. Low-profile displays allow the opportunity for visitors to view and connect with the landscape being interpreted, and they also minimize impacts to scenic qualities.

Kiosks are useful in covering multiple display functions and allowing more capacity for viewing. They are best placed in areas where visual intrusion is not an issue and where there is good pedestrian circulation and access.

Brochures, Guides, Maps, and Webpages Brochures, guides, and maps can be designed and published to cover a number of different topics and themes. An overall scenic byway brochure/guide together with maps can highlight places of interest as well as present stewardship and interpretive messages.

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Specific brochures can highlight special touring experiences (such as “Waterfalls of the Cascade Loop,” “Farms and Fields,” and “Arts and Culture”). Brochures can also provide information about natural areas and wildlife, historic sites and heritage, and other topics.

Byway visitors can be directed to hiking trails and other recreational experiences. Some people prefer printed materials, but being more resourceful and minimizing waste and energy use are part of being sustainable. As much as possible, brochures, guides, and maps should be made available online so visitors can access them through hand-held devices and personal computers. They can then download and print the portions that they are interested in if they choose.

The current Cascade Loop travel guidebook provides extensive information for visitors, but it is not meant as an interpretive guide. Specific interpretive guides and/or webpage displays can be developed to supplement the guidebook.

Live Interpretive Programs/ Living History Reenactments/ Demonstration Programs Living history and reenactment programs, sometimes hosted by museums and national parks, help to build an understanding of what life was like during historical periods of time.

These are great assignments for volunteers who are knowledgeable about their region’s history (and have access to period costumes).

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Interpretive methods that celebrate today’s ways of life at sites along the byway will provide authentic experiences for visitors. Examples include immersing visitors in agricultural activities and festivals with local crafts.

Providing interpretation with these activities helps to further enrich the experience.

While internet access and cellular phone connections are limited in some areas around the Cascade Loop, technology is rapidly improving all the time and most areas of the byway have access that would allow visitors to download before proceeding to more remote areas. A “waypoint” story program focused on conveying local history and cultural themes accessible at key points around the Cascade Loop could be explored.

Audio/Visual/Digital/Electronic Media

Self-Guided Tours

Modern Demonstrations of Agricultural Operations, Arts, Crafts, and Culture

Audio and/or visual media, which may include DVDs, CDs, downloadable programs and podcasts, videos on Youtube, or other types of media can convey a variety of interpretive information to visitors. Some video and audio recordings are already available for portions of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. Audio/ visual media should be centered on a theme.

For example, programs could focus on the natural environment, on historical stories and structures still present, and on today’s lifestyles and cultural activities.

As the byway organization plans toward sustainable methods for interpretation, it should consider how to implement more online, downloadable programs. Conveying interpretation electronically through Internet and smart phone links and applications (such as QR codes displayed at key story points along the byway) can be an effective means in reaching more technically savvy travelers.

Self-guided tours provide another opportunity to interpret the byway. Visitors and residents can take self-guided tours using shuttle services where available, bicycles, or their own vehicle, stopping at various sites along the byway. Self-guided tours can be accompanied by a brochure or through website materials that can be printed. “Farms and Barns,” “Arts and Culture,” “History and Heritage,” “Birds and Wildlife,” “Outdoor Recreation,” “Watchable Wildlife,” “Stewardship and Volunteering Opportunities,” and others are all potential topics for self-guided tours.

Multi-lingual Information Information and interpretive media for non-English speaking visitors should be provided as practicable. For example, audio media could be translated in multiple languages. Using international pictograms and icons in traveler information is also important. It is also important to remember that most travelers from abroad speak and understand a basic level of English.

Conveying information in concise, easy-to-read language that emphasizes key points to travelers and through illustrations that communicate important information to everyone, no matter what their native language may be, are important keys to successful communication with multi-lingual visitors, as well as people of all ages and abilities.

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

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1 Know Your Visitors

Have the main visitor groups been identified?

Have visitors’ likely interests and needs been documented?

Have visitors’ previous experiences and knowledge been considered?

2 Develop Topics, Themes, and Messages for the Project Site

Have the major topics been identified?

3 Conduct Research, Gather Information, and Write Interpretive Content

Have catchy titles been used to attract visitors’ attention?

Have core themes and messages based on the topics been developed?

Are the themes and messages clearly stated?

Are the themes and messages supported by stories and facts?

Is the content clearly organized?

Do the written interpretation and supporting graphics clearly reinforce the messages and concepts discussed?

Have metaphors, analogies, and personal stories been used to present information?

Is the information presented accurate and up-to-date?

Is the content interesting and thought-provoking?

Does the interpretation encourage visitors to solve problems and/or make decisions?

Does the content engage visitors’ emotions?

Has humor been used where appropriate?

Do signs and displays ask visitors stimulating and appropriate questions?

Does the interpretation suggest ways in which new information can be integrated into visitors’ daily lives?

4 Match Content to Visitors

Is the information relevant for the target audience?

In particular, does it “connect to” their previous knowledge and experiences?

Does interpretation build on experiences visitors may have had at other sites/attractions in the area?

Is the interpretation sensitive to the different social and cultural backgrounds of visitors?

Does the interpretation take into account the needs and limitations of special groups (e.g., families, visitors with disabilities, etc.)?

5 Assess Readibility

Are sentences short and easy to understand?

Does the level of language match the reading ability of the target audience?

Are there any sentences that could have double meanings or be interpreted in a manner not intended?

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ACTIVITY

6 Design and Format Interpretive Panels in Accordance with Design Guidelines

Have you selected the design style and coordinated with the scenic byway partnerships as well as the local jurisdiction, where specific design guidelines and standards may apply?

Is the font and size of text easy to read?

Is the text well spaced?

Do the text colors, fonts, and formatting adhere to the design guidelines for the byway?

Do the colors chosen for text, illustrations, and background match the interpretive display’s content and tone?

Do illustrations match and enhance the content?

Are illustrations clear and easy to see?

Are photographs of high enough quality to reproduce well at the final size?

Does the placement of text and illustrations look balanced?

Are the colors used appropriate for the available lighting conditions?

Refer to the design guidelines in Section 5 for other requirements.

7 Assess Accuracy

Has the spelling of all text been checked electronically and thoroughly proofread?

Have all facts presented been checked and verified?

Has written permission been obtained for the use of photographs and illustrations?

Have artists and/or copyright owners been credited for the use of their work?

8 Base/Stand Designs and Pre-Production Quality Review

Do the materials specified reflect the “look and feel” of the sign/display content and adhere to the design guidelines for the byway?

Are the materials durable enough for the intended purpose?

Have issues of maintenance, vandalism, and longevity been considered?

Are the materials appropriate for the site and weather conditions?

If sensitive archaeological resources are present, have you considered using a base/stand design that won’t require excavation? (such as electronic interpretation or displays mounted on rocks or logs on top of the ground) Are the design details and specifications for materials, fastenings, and hardware sufficient for heavy-duty, outdoor use and conditions?

Refer to the design guidelines in this chapter for additional requirements and considerations.

9 Fabricate Interpretive Panels and Bases in Accordance with Design Guidelines

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10 Inspect Workmanship and Accuracy of Interpretive Panels and Bases Immediately Upon Receipt from Vendor 11 Field Check Proposed Display Locations Before Finalizing the Site Plan or Installing

Will displays be placed where visitors will see them (e.g., in direct line of vision, at natural stopping points)?

If displays aren’t directly in front of the attraction, are they within easy viewing distance and clearly matched to the feature/s being described?

Could some visitors (e.g., children and those in wheelchairs) have difficulty accessing signage and/ or interactive displays?

Is there enough space for people to view the displays in comfort?

Have seats/benches been provided where appropriate?

Has reflection from natural and artificial light been minimized?

12 Prepare Site Plan

Does the site plan drawing show the detailed location of each display and the direction it faces?

Does the drawing specify key materials, distances, and dimensions (e.g., the distance from sign posts to the edge of pavement [or road centerline], measured distance between displays and nearby landmarks, the height of the top edges of the sign and sign bases, and the depth of footings)?

If any site environmental approvals, special permits, and/or plan design certification(s) are necessary (e.g., cultural resource clearances, SEPA/NEPA, biological assessments, traffic engineering, structural engineering, architecture, landscape architecture), have they been prepared and submitted for approval?

Has the site plan been submitted for review to the agency with jurisdiction for approval and/or permits (federal, state, county, town, hamlet review committees, and tribes, as applicable)?

13 Install Interpretive Displays

Have the required permits been obtained prior to installation?

14 Inspect Workmanship and Accuracy of Interpretive Panels and Bases Installation Immediately Upon Completion 15 Announce the Opening of the Interpretive Site

Submit press releases announcing the project’s opening and describing it to news organizations, tourism-related organizations and agencies, the National Scenic Byways Program, and others as appropriate.

Don’t forget to celebrate successful completion of your project!

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Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

Preserving the Overall Character and Unique Qualities of the Byway Extensive areas of land along and surrounding the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway are publicly owned and managed, including: Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest; Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest; Henry M. Jackson, Glacier Peak, Lake Chelan-Sawtooth, and Pasayten Wilderness Areas; North Cascades National Park Complex (including Lake Chelan National Recreation Area and Ross Lake National Recreation Area);

This will help to ensure that the overall character and the intrinsic qualities of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway are preserved for future generations.

As planning and management of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway experience continues in the future, it will be important for the Cascade Loop Association to maintain partnerships with public land managers and conservation groups.

Sharing information such as results of visitor surveys that indicate interest in certain sites or concerns about the experience would be of mutual benefit.

Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve; Various state parks, federal wildlife refuge areas (protecting land and water areas), and state wildlife recreation areas.

Many of the special places identified along the byway are located within these protected and publicly managed lands. Management and implementation plans developed by entities such as the National Park Service and the US Forest Service help to protect natural and cultural resources and manage visitation in ways that do not harm resources.

There also are various land trusts that own and preserve areas along the byway, including the Methow Conservancy and the Whidbey-Camano Land Trust. There are also conservation organizations that are committed to providing stewardship information and supporting special projects that help to protect natural areas.

Various state, county, and city regulations also apply to land uses along the byway (including the state controls on billboards previously mentioned as well as local regulations on land use, development and signs).

WHIDBEY SCENIC ISLE WAY Ebey’s Landing National Historic Reserve

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Washington State Scenic and Recreational Highways

Washington State Scenic and Recreational Highways Strategic Plan, 2010-2030

These are sections of Washington State Highway that are identified in State law (RCW 47.39 and 47.42) and designated because of a need to develop management plans that will protect and preserve the scenic and recreational resources from loss through inappropriate development.

In addition to the public land managers discussed above, The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) serves an important role in ongoing management of the scenic byway. WSDOT created a strategic plan for the state’s scenic and recreational highway system.

The strategic plan establishes goals and performance measures consistent with the state’s transportation policy goals (RCW 47.04.280), and:

Protection of scenic and recreational resources includes managing land use outside normal highway rights-of-way. The [State] legislature recognizes that scenic and recreational highways are typically located in areas that are natural in character, along watercourses or through mountainous areas, or in areas with a view of such scenery (RCW 47.39.020).*

Informs other planning efforts such as the Washington Transportation Plan.

Designation as a Scenic and Recreational Highway or Indian Tribe Scenic Byway is required in order to apply for National Scenic Byway discretionary grants. *It should be noted that National Scenic Byway designation is based on the presence of outstanding qualities in six categories— not only scenic and natural, but also archaeological, historic, cultural, and recreational.

Provides guidance to WSDOT programs.

Increases awareness of the value of the state scenic system.

Fulfills the need to include a Scenic and Recreational component to the Multi-Modal Transportation Plan as required by state law (RCW 47.06).

Because Washington’s Scenic and Recreational Highways are part of the state transportation system, all associated programs and efforts must be consistent with the Transportation Policy Goals described in state law (RCW 47.04.280). The strategic plan establishes goals and performance measures for three of the state’s transportation policy areas including: SAFETY: Increase traveler safety through traveler services on Washington’s Scenic and Recreational Highways.

MOBILITY: Enhance public access to scenic and recreational resources associated with the state’s Scenic and Recreational Highways.

ENVIRONMENT: Plan for, protect and preserve resources associated with Washington’s Scenic and Recreational Highways.

Reliable existing data was available to support the performance measures associated with the Safety and Mobility goals, above. However, to measure progress toward the environmental goal, WSDOT identified additional data needs and contracted with the University of Washington (UW) to compile the data. In an independent study directed at the UW, a “Resource Planning Index” was created based on data from other state agencies, counties, and other sources.

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Measuring Progress toward the Environmental Goal The goals for preserving and enhancing scenic and recreational resources through increasing planning and integration, traveler services/ tourism, and stewardship were articulated by the steering committee that advised the development of the strategic plan, through public comments received during plan development. Measuring progress toward the environmental goal can be informed through the Resource Planning Index developed through the independent University of Washington study.

corridor management plan for the Whidbey Scenic Isle Way (after the 1960-1990 WSDOT study period), which could be why the map does not show any segments of high scenic value along that region of the Cascade Loop.

for potential addition to the state map. Additional Visual Resource Assessment(s) following methods recognized by WSDOT may be needed to document other areas of high scenic value along the Cascade Loop not currently shown in the state map but that should be added.

Besides areas on Whidbey Island, there are other highly scenic areas along the Cascade Loop (and other scenic byways) that should be considered

High quality scenic areas along the Cascade Loop that should be evaluated and potentially added to the state’s map include (but are not necessarily limited to):

Figure 3. Locations of Highest Scenic Value B R I T I S H 542

Scenic Values

Whatcom

V U 9

The Resource Planning Index was partially informed by a map of areas with high scenic value compiled by WSDOT based on past studies from 1960 to 1990. The map, included on this page, shows a segment of the North Cascades Scenic Highway (SR 20) and portions of US Highway/SR 2 as having high scenic value.

V U

V U

Okanogan

20

Pend Oreille

Ferry

20

V U 20

San Juan

V U 112

£ ¤

Skagit

Stevens

Island

§ ¦ ¨ 5

Clallam

Snohomish Chelan

101

V U

Jefferson

99

V U 155

Douglas

£ ¤ 2

£ ¤ 2

Kitsap

Lincoln

231

97

Grays Harbor

Mason

King

Grant

§ ¦ ¨ 90

§ ¦ ¨ 90

Kittitas

£ ¤ 12

Thurston

Pierce

§ ¦ ¨

Spokane

V U

£ ¤

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From information in the strategic plan, it appears that this map is a starting point for identifying and monitoring scenic resources along designated Scenic and Recreational Highways in Washington. Coordination with WSDOT will be needed to determine the process for adding high scenic value areas to the map. For example, a Visual Resource Assessment completed for the Whidbey Scenic Isle Way identified several high quality scenic areas on Whidbey Island. This assessment was completed in 2005 as part of developing the

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V U

V U

V U

Whitman

262

410

£ ¤ 195

Adams

5

Pacific

V U

Lewis

6

£ ¤

Yakima

12

V U 261

Franklin

Wahkiakum

Cowlitz

:

V U 503

Clark

£ ¤ 97

Skamania

V U 141

Benton

Walla Walla

Garfield

£ ¤ 12

Columbia

Asotin

V U 129

Klickitat

V U 14

O R E G O N 0

15

30

60 Miles

Tribal Lands* City Limits

Locations of Highest Scenic Value

Locations of Highest Scenic Value As Identified through studies conducted by WSDOT between 1960 and 1990 * Tribal lands data source: Census 2000, Federally Recognized American Indian Reservations and Trust Lands.

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

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The high quality scenic experience at Deception Pass, available to motorists traveling the byway, as well as those who choose to get out at the wayside areas near the bridges and walk to viewpoints; Iconic views in the Ebey’s Landing National Historic Reserve, Penn Cove, and surrounding vicinity; Other views of Puget Sound and the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges on Whidbey Island, the ferry route between Clinton and Mukilteo and in the vicinity of the Mukilteo shoreline;

DECEPTION PASS Visitors can enjoy extraordinary scenic qualities at Deception Pass.

Views of the Snoqualmie River valley in the vicinity of Snohomish; Views of the Cascades from the eastward approach on US Highway/SR 2; Scenic qualities of high value identified in the Stevens Pass Greenway Corridor Management Plan (now a National Scenic Byway), such as views of Mount Index, waterfalls, and other natural elements; Views of the Wenatchee River corridor; Views of the Lake Chelan area, including scenic vistas of vineyards; Scenic vistas of the Columbia River and shrub steppe natural landscape areas in the vicinity of Wenatchee, Entiat, and Pateros (and areas in between); Scenic vistas throughout the Methow Valley, along the winding Methow River, encompassing meadow and prairie landscapes with the North Cascades in the backdrop; Views of the upper Skagit River valley upon descent from the North Cascades on SR 20; Panoramic views of the flower bulb fields of the Skagit Valley in bloom in the spring; and Scenic vistas available at the Swinomish Channel crossing onto Fidalgo Island and of Lake Campbell.

Resource Planning Index

Forests

The Resource Planning Index developed by WSDOT with the support of the UW study provides a set of benchmarks for preservation and sustainability throughout the Scenic and Recreational Highway System. The data was peer reviewed and evaluated by other state agencies before being published.

Historic locations

Building on the existing maps of scenic areas identified through past visual assessments, the Resource Planning Index compiled data associated with Washington’s Scenic and Recreational Highways and established a benchmark for tracking future performance that can be built on over time as new data is developed and acquired. The data compiled and mapped collectively as part of the Resource Planning Index includes: Natural Area Preserves Natural Resource Conservation Areas Parks Reserves

Major destinations Water bodies Natural Heritage Areas Current and future land use Additionally, some opportunities for protection and preservation considered in the proposed Resource Planning Index include locations where: Important wildlife corridors which cross Scenic and Recreational Highways may provide opportunities for habitat preservation or (in the case of major highways) bridges for wildlife passage.

Private land in proximity to existing protected land provides opportunity to expand that protected area through the purchase of land or conservation easements.

Highway culverts that block fish passage are opportunities for culvert removal/redesign and streambed restoration.

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Water bodies, streams, and wetlands in close proximity to highways provide opportunities for runoff management and stream flow restoration.

Existing protected lands provide opportunities for enhancing the viability of those areas as functioning ecosystems (e.g., through addressing fish passage issues).

Proximity to cultural, historic and other sites of importance provides opportunities to mitigate the impacts of highway traffic on those sites.

Locations considered of high scenic value based on past WSDOT studies (1960-1990), and locations that have considerable opportunity for stewardship were identified as “hot spots” for resource preservation and protection potential. The Resource Planning Index is shown for Cascade Loop segments in the map on page 5-50. Areas with high potential for preserving and enhancing resources are shown in the map on page 5-51.

A more detailed discussion of the UW methodology for calculating the Resource Planning Index values at locations along Scenic and Recreational Highways is described in the separate report titled Resource Planning Index Report by University of Washington1 available on WSDOT’s website and through the Washington State Transportation Research Center.

1 All Background Papers, related Appendices, and supporting documents referenced in the Washington State Scenic and Recreational Highways Strategic Plan can be found at WSDOT’s website: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ LocalPrograms/ScenicByways/BywaysPlan.htm

MANSON BAY

Manson Bay provides great views for area homes.

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Figure 4. Resource Planning Index Values for Scenic and Recreational Highways B R I T I S H

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V U 542

Whatcom

V U 9

V U

V U

Okanogan

20

Pend Oreille

Ferry

20

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San Juan

Stevens

Island

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£ ¤

Skagit

§ ¦ ¨ 5

Clallam

Snohomish Chelan

101

V U

Jefferson

99

V U 155

Douglas

£ ¤ 2

£ ¤ 2

Lincoln

231

97

Grays Harbor

Mason

King

Grant

§ ¦ ¨ 90

§ ¦ ¨ 90

Kittitas

V U

£ ¤

410

12

Thurston

£ ¤ 195

Adams

V U

Whitman

262

Pierce

§ ¦ ¨

Spokane

V U

£ ¤

I D A H O

Kitsap

5

Pacific

V U

Lewis

6

Yakima

£ ¤ 12

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Franklin

Wahkiakum

£ ¤ 97

Cowlitz

:

V U 503

Clark

Benton Skamania

V U 141

Walla Walla

Garfield

£ ¤ 12

Columbia

Asotin

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Klickitat

V U 14

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10

20

40 Miles

High : 45 Resource Planning Index Values

Tribal Lands* City Limits

Low : 0

Resource Planning Index for Scenic and Recreational Highways * Tribal lands data source: Census 2000, Federally Recognized American Indian Reservations and Trust Lands.

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Figure 5. Locations of Highest Potential for Protecting, Preserving and Enhancing Resources Associated with Washington Scenic and Recreational Highways Locations of Highest Potential

B R I T I S H 542

9

Pend Oreille

Ferry

20

V U 20

112

4. SR 142 near Klickitat

Skagit

§ ¦ ¨ 5

Clallam

£ ¤

Stevens

Island

V U

3. SR 14 east of Washougal

Snohomish Chelan

101

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Jefferson

1

99

£ ¤

Kitsap

6. SR 821 along the Yakima River

Mason

Grays Harbor

7. I-90 east of Kachess Lake

King

Thurston 5

Pacific

2

11. SR 17 near Lenore Lake

V U

£ ¤

231

§ ¦ ¨ 90

Whitman

6 Franklin

Wahkiakum

V U 503

£ ¤ 97

Clark

Benton Skamania

V 4 U 141

3

£ ¤ 195

Adams

262

Yakima

12

Spokane

V U

Lewis

6

: 5 10

Lincoln

V U

Cowlitz

0

2

Kittitas

5

Pierce

§ ¦ ¨

10. SR 20 from North Cascades National Park to Rainy Pass

8

£ ¤

Grant

410

12

9. SR 2 east of Stevens Pass

7

V U

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8. SR 97 near Liberty

90

155

11

£ ¤ 97

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Douglas

9

2

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5. SR 410 in Mt. Rainier National Park and east to SR 12 junction

Data and analysis methodology described in the 2009 report "Development of a Resource Planning Index for Washington's Scenic and Recreational Highways" prepared for WSDOT by Kevin Ramsey.

V U

Okanogan

20

San Juan

2. U.S. 101 near Willapa National Wildlife Refuge

13. SR 31 south of the Canadian Border

V 10 U

Whatcom

V U

13

12

V U

1. US 101 along the west coast of the Olympic Peninsula

12. SR 25 south of the Canadian Border

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Walla Walla

V U 261

Garfield

£ ¤ 12

Columbia

Asotin

V U 129

Klickitat

V U 14

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20 Miles

Locations of Highest Potential City Limits Tribal Lands (Census 2000)

Locations with the Highest Potential for Protecting, Preserving and Enhancing Resources Associated with Scenic and Recreational Highways

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General Design Guidelines for Roadside Elements The Cascade Loop Scenic Highway has been recognized for its exceptional scenic, historic, cultural, natural, and recreational qualities. Designing roadside elements in a manner that complements and enhances these qualities will preserve and enhance the byway’s character.

The byway encompasses a diversity of landscapes including river valleys, rolling hills, forests, high mountain terrain, prairies and meadows, rural pockets of development, homesteads, working farms, orchards, vineyards, ranches, shrub steppe landscape, and cities and towns. Roadside elements need to be designed to fit each context and setting where they are being installed. Local, state, and federal design standards and requirements will need to be referenced as applicable.

Applicability of the Design Guidelines As projects and improvements are implemented along the byway, planners and designers involved with those efforts can refer to these guidelines for design examples and concepts, which are responsive to and consistent with the byway’s existing visual character.

The intent of providing these is not to strictly regulate or mandate design approaches, but rather to guide, encourage and set the stage for how byway elements and roadside improvements could be designed and implemented.

These guidelines will be most applicable to improvements along and within the scenic byway right-of-way.

Design Resources and Requirements There are several helpful resources available to planners and designers involved in developing roadside elements along the scenic byway: Wayside Exhibits, A Guide to Developing Outdoor Interpretive Exhibits, National Park Service Scenic Byways—A Design Guide for Roadside Improvements, USDA Forest Service and US Department of Transportation The Built Environment Image Guide for the National Forests and Grasslands, USDA Forest Service

International Building Code, as well as Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility guidelines (ADAAG) and Outdoor Developed Area Accessibility Guidelines (ODAAG) American Association of Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Design Guides, Including A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets (the Green Book), A Guide For Achieving Flexibility in Highway Design, Guide for Planning, Design, and Operation of Pedestrian Facilities, and Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities WSDOT Scenic Byway Logo Signing Guidelines, Design Standards, and other applicable requirements for improvements along state highways

Planners and designers also will need to reference all applicable local, state, and federal design standards and requirements, including:

Cultural resource preservation requirements that apply to all federally funded projects and require consultation with Native American tribes of the region, as well as the State Historic Preservation Officer

National Park Service, US Forest Service, and Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission requirements for projects adjacent to or within their managed lands

Other requirements that may be applicable to the specific site/location depending on ownership and jurisdiction including county and city requirements

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Suggested steps for project planning, design, and implementation are provided in Chapter 8.

Overall Guiding Principles for Planning and Design The following overall guiding principles apply to the planning and design of roadside elements along the scenic byway.

Preserve and enhance the existing scenic qualities and visual character of the byway and surrounding visible landscapes through context-sensitive design approaches.

Strengthen the presence of and create a consistent “brand identity” in ways that enhance the visitor experience and leave a positive memorable impression of the byway.

Provide aesthetic cohesiveness in the selection of materials, colors, and design styles for development of roadside elements and new features along the byway.

Provide features that will help guide visitors/travelers and promote recognition of the byway.

Improve safety for byway travelers through enhanced wayshowing elements and wayside improvements.

The Importance of ContextSensitive Solutions Improvements within the scenic byway rightof-way, along the roadside, or on lands visible from the byway can affect the scenic qualities and visual characteristics of the corridor.

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Applying a Context-Sensitive approach in design can help in avoiding or minimizing impacts to these scenic qualities.

Achieving Project Success and Design Excellence

WHAT ARE CONTEXT SENSITIVE

The project satisfies the purpose and needs as agreed to by a full range of stakeholders. This agreement is forged in the earliest phase of the project and amended as warranted as the project develops.

SOLUTIONS? Context sensitive solutions (CSS) result from a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach that involves all stakeholders in providing a design solution that fits its setting. For transportation and roadside improvements, it is an approach that leads to preserving and enhancing scenic, aesthetic, historic, community, and environmental resources, while improving or maintaining safety, mobility, and infrastructure conditions.

HOW DO YOU REACH CONTEXT SENSITIVE

SOLUTIONS? 1. Strive towards a shared stakeholder vision

to provide a basis for decisions.

2. Demonstrate a comprehensive

understanding of contexts.

3. Foster continuing communication and

collaboration to achieve consensus.

4. Exercise flexibility and creativity to shape

effective solutions, while preserving and enhancing community and natural environments.

WHAT FEATURES DO THESE GUIDELINES

APPLY TO? There are a variety of structures and improvements that may be designed along

The project is a safe facility for both the user and the community.

The project is in harmony with the community, and it preserves environmental, scenic, aesthetic, historic, and natural resource values of the area, i.e., exhibits context sensitive design.

The project exceeds the expectations of both designers and stakeholders and achieves a level of excellence in people’s minds.

The project involves efficient and effective use of the resources (time, budget, community) of all involved parties.

The project is designed and built with minimal disruption to the community.

The project is seen as having added lasting value to the community.

Source: Thinking Beyond the Pavement: A National Workshop on Integrating Highway Development With Communities and the Environment, Federal Highway Administration

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

the Cascade Loop that will be visible from the highway and as such, could affect scenic qualities if not designed properly.

These include: Wayside pull-off areas that might have kiosks and/or interpretive panel displays; Comfort stations/travelers rest stops Scenic overlooks/viewing areas Guardrail Signing and wayshowing elements along the highway, including site signs and markers Gateway treatments Fencing and walls Picnic areas/shelters Trailhead improvements/trail markers

Sustainable Planning and Design Sustainability is an important consideration in planning and design of byway projects. Sustainable design balances human needs with the carrying capacity of the natural and cultural environments, avoiding or minimizing impacts to those environments. Sustainable design creates optimum and harmonious relationships between people and their environments. It allows opportunities for people to experience scenic qualities, natural habitats, wildlife, and plants with minimal effects on them.

The scenic beauty and natural resources of the Cascade Loop attract visitors. In providing facilities and activities for visitors, special care must be taken to not destroy the very resources and qualities they are coming to experience. Retaining and enhancing existing aesthetics and visual character and protecting natural and cultural resources are the actions that will help preserve the sense of place around the Cascade Loop.

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In addition to avoiding and minimizing impacts to the natural and cultural environment, sustainable design minimizes energy use or generates energy, manages or reuses waste, and conserves water.

Sustainable design maximizes the use of local renewable resources and recycled and recyclable materials. The use of imported goods is minimized as much as possible.

Sustainable design seeks to do more with less—more function within less space and more sharing of resources and spaces. It also minimizes long term upkeep and replacement needs through the construction of lasting, durable improvements that require minimal maintenance and have a long life cycle. This results in a greater return on investment for public/capital expenditures. There are many excellent resources available to guide green building and sustainable design practices.

Recommended Design Styles and Approaches for Roadside Elements Given that roadside elements are intended to complement the scenic byway, a design style that blends with the scenery and represents a park-like aesthetic is desirable.

The contextually appropriate Rustic Cascadian style has been used in national and state parks in the Pacific Northwest and would fit well along the byway given that it extends through and to various parks and natural areas. As evident in Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)-built park

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infrastructure of the 1930s, the Rustic Cascadian style uses heavy timber and stone and integrates the craft arts such as blacksmithing, woodcarving, and other forms of art. There are existing Rustic Cascadian buildings and features along the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway in many of the regions, but particularly in Regions 2, 7, and 9.

The Rustic Cascadian style is also complementary to the agricultural aesthetic (old barns, sheds, fencing) found in several areas along the byway. Features of the style, such as pitched roofs and board-and-batten siding in some cases, are also consistent with architectural styles of the 1800s and early 1900s, also found along the byway.

Given the strong influence of arts and crafts along some segments of the Cascade Loop, arts and crafts elements, such as tiles, carved wood features, and decorations could be integrated into the design of the roadside features, including Coast Salish and other Native American art and symbols with involvement of the tribes.

In order to preserve and enhance the special characteristics of a place, it is important to have an in-depth understanding of the existing natural systems and cultural influences that are inherent to that place—the existing context of that place. When designing roadside features, consider the surrounding landscape and colors and blend features with the natural setting.

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Recommended Materials Palette To express the Rustic Cascadian style, natural, regionally available materials such as heavy, rough-hewn timbers or logs and the integral use of rock or stone should be used. The images on pages 5-56 through 5-59 represent a recommended materials palette for roadside features, such as: Heavy timbers/rough hewn logs Rock and stone Recycled barn wood Weathered steel

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Features of the Rustic Cascadian Style Expression of substantial structural strength Low hugging profile/human scale emphasis Heavy timber (often log) and stone construction Unpeeled logs or half round logs or rough hewn timbers as beams, sometimes siding Multi-paneled windows (small paneled preferred) Exposed structure and decking

Painted metal in earthtone colors

Moderately to steeply pitched hipped and gable roofs

Arts and crafts accents

Cedar shakes/shingles

Design Examples and Concepts Examples are shown on the following pages to help inspire and guide the design of roadside elements along the Cascade Loop.

Sometimes asymmetrical composition Large stone chimneys Exterior materials and finishes complement the natural landscape such as rough-hewn wood, timbers, and rock; painted metal in earthtone accent colors Varied exterior textures Board-and-batten or shingled siding left unpainted Natural materials such as river boulders used at the foundation, bases of columns, etc.

Hand-worked metal fixtures Hand-crafted wood details Hand crafted rustic decorative elements and artworks integrated into design

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Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

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Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

Preserving the Unique Qualities & Enhancing the Visitor Experience of the Cascade Loop

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Cascade Loop Marketing and Promotions Marketing and promotional strategies, programs, and projects help attract visitors and can be valuable tools in managing visitors and conveying important messages to the traveling public.

Marketing and promotion of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway results in direct economic benefits in each region because attracting more visitors translates to more shopping, more overnight stays, more jobs, and more revenue generated by sales and luxury taxes. The abundance of locally-owned establishments are a unique aspect of the Cascade Loop experience and should be promoted as such.

Existing Marketing and Promotional Activities Because the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway was established more than 30 years ago, there has been a long, successful history of marketing and promotion of the byway.

Travel Guidebook The travel guidebook is an annual publication that goes to over 100,000 guests. It is a key marketing and promotional tool for the byway that has been highly successful.

Website The Cascade Loop website (www.cascadeloop. com) is a well-established tool that the byway uses for ongoing traveler orientation and marketing and promotions. The website links to partner websites and special offers provided by partners. It also highlights the unique aspects of each region. Extensive information is provided to help visitors including drive times and mileage between towns, lodging information, recommendations about hikes and places to visit and a link to the online version of the travel guidebook.

Interactive Web Map The Cascade Loop website hosts a 3D interactive map that allows visitors to take a virtual tour of the byway.

Media Outreach and Print and WebBased Advertising In addition, the Cascade Loop Association markets to various print media, such as Seattle Magazine, Sunset Magazine, American Road Magazine, and the Seattle Visitors’ Guide, which all ran editorial pieces on the byway in 2013.

The Cascade Loop Association also pursues web-based advertising, and had a presence on the following sites in 2013: www.experiencewa.com www.sunset.com www.americanroadmagazine.com www.visitseattle.org

Trade Shows The Cascade Loop also participates in trade shows, such as the Travel & Words Writers’ Conference.

Social Media Exposure Increasing social media exposure is an ongoing commitment for the Cascade Loop.

The Cascade Loop Facebook page audience has been continually increasing. Links to the Cascade Loop’s presence on flickr, and Pinterest are also available on the website.

Attracting Tour Groups In 2014 and moving forward, the Cascade Loop Association has been working with partners to draw and attract traveling groups such as bus

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tours, car and motorcycle clubs, and others.

By creating a media-kit for distribution to group tour operators and club organizers, more interest in tour opportunities will be generated.

Cascade Loop DVD and Video Streaming A DVD is available to visitors through the website and amazon.com. The DVD highlights hikes and trails, and won a Georgie Award for “best travel video.”

Keeping up with technology and attracting interest with next-generation travelers is another strong interest for the Cascade Loop Association. A YouTube channel now features streaming video that depicts what a trip around the loop entails, including spectacular scenery and year-round activity options. The video is also available at www.cascadeloop.com

Cultural Heritage Audio Tour The northern half of the Cascade Loop is featured in a two-CD audio tour with 28 pages of liner notes. The program includes cultural heritage highlights, stories, and traditional music of the people who live in this part of Washington state.

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Ongoing Objectives and Strategies The Cascade Loop Association will continue with its active marketing and promotional program, described above. Ongoing strategies for the byway include: Gathering visitor statistics and information to understand the activities, needs, and interests of byway visitors, working with partners to collectively analyze these so that marketing efforts can be targeted as time goes on.

Strengthening partnerships, collaboration, and cooperation between byway communities and tourism organizations; Develop new efforts to use the National Scenic Byway designation as a marketing tool in the future; Encouraging more public and private partnerships in economic and tourism planning and development;

objectives, and strategies. This will help promote the byway on a local level and build interest in the byway with the next generation of travelers; Continuing to promote year-round and shoulder season activities on the Cascade Loop; Integrating stewardship messages into marketing and promotional activities; and Developing theme-based tours, such as “Cascade Loop Waterfalls” “Farm Tours,” etc.

Ongoing Coordination with Land Managers and Tourism Promotion Programs As part of ongoing marketing and promotions, coordination with organizations and agencies that have public information programs will be important, including: Local communities Local, regional, and state tourism organizations, visitors bureaus, and chambers of commerce, etc.

Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission; National Park Service; US Forest Service;

Generating and identifying funding opportunities for marketing and promotional activities;

State Fish and Wildlife Department and US Fish and Wildlife Service;

Promoting the byway’s intrinsic qualities while educating both residents and visitors on the importance of preserving and enhancing those qualities;

Recreational/sports and events facilities;

Partner with local schools and have the students participate in programs and projects that achieve byway goals,

Educational organizations;

Environmental and conservation organizations; Historical societies, museums, historic preservation groups; and Other relevant public agencies, non-profit and private organizations (such as Methow Made, as one example).

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SAUK RIVER East of Concrete

Action Plan Overview The action plan in this chapter of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway Corridor Management Plan presents a list of proposed actions that are priorities based on input from the byway organization, stakeholders and the public. Recommendations were gathered during multiple workshop sessions and meetings held during the planning process. Proposed actions are described, prioritized, and assigned to entities that could support implementation in the Action Plan Summary Table at the end of this chapter.

Proposed actions include projects, programs, strategies, and other initiatives that the Cascade Loop Association and its partners can work toward implementing over the next ten years and beyond, as part of ongoing byway management and stewardship.

ENTIAT

Mountain Goat herd often seen between Wenatchee and Entiat

Along with presenting proposed actions for the byway, this chapter of the plan also summarizes the anticipated benefits and opportunities related to implementation. A summary of some of the key issues and considerations that influenced development of the action plan is also presented, along with recommendations for implementing and updating the action plan.

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Anticipated Benefits and Opportunities of Implementing the Action Plan Implementing the action plan will result in many benefits and opportunities, including achieving the vision, mission, values, and goals identified in Chapter 1.

Benefits of implementation are organized into the following categories.

1. Enhancing Visitor Experience 2. Strengthening the Brand Identity and Character of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway 3. Expanding Multi-Modal Transportation Options and Encouraging Green Travel 4. Preserving and Protecting Important Resources and Intrinsic Qualities 5. Improving Community Livability and Economic Vitality

These benefits align with the primary goals for the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, as well as general scenic byway planning guidance provided by the Federal Highway Administration. Of a long list of potential byway actions initially submitted, only those aligning with multiple categories of these benefits were included in the Action Plan. (Refer to the Action Plan Summary Table at the end of this section.)

The discussion below summarizes each of these anticipated benefits and key opportunities related to implementation. Although the categories of benefits are listed numerically, this is not a ranking—each category is important to the long-term success of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway.

1. Enhancing Visitor Experience There are many places along the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway that provide wonderful experiences for visitors, as well as people who live and work along the byway. These existing experiences are unique and memorable, and they continue to draw visitors year after year. Cascade Loop experiences provide opportunities to: Become immersed in breath-taking scenery and views Engage with nature and learn about natural resources, diverse ecosystems, and wildlife Learn about the diverse history and culture of Washington state Appreciate a variety of arts from public art and murals to galleries, studios, and performances Enjoy local cuisine, wines, hand-crafted beverages, and other delights for each region around the Cascade Loop Relax in peaceful settings, whether in the mountains, at the beach, or in between Be involved in a wide variety of festivals and special events with activities for all ages and interests Take part in many different forms of recreation, including water and land based activities all around the Cascade Loop This action plan includes proposed actions and projects that will enhance these existing unique experiences and create new experiences. Recommendations to expand and enhance visitor facilities along the byway with information kiosks, interpretive waysides, wayfinding signs, and other amenities will enhance visitor experience and provide educational and interpretive opportunities for visitors and residents alike.

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3. Expanding Multi-Modal Transportation Options and Encouraging Green Travel

MIN0TAUR LAKE

Region 2-Stevens Pass Greenway

2. Strengthening the Brand Identity and Character of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway New facilities and improvements along the byway should be designed and constructed with care to ensure they represent the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway’s brand identity and are visually compatible with the scenic character of each unique region and setting. Proposed actions will reinforce the byway’s identity throughout all regions so visitors understand that they are on the Cascade Loop as they enjoy each place. Installing scenic byway logo signs and expanding the branding and identity of the Cascade Loop will help to achieve this. Information kiosks and interpretive waysides should be designed to express the brand identity of the Cascade Loop and to be cohesive with each setting in which they are placed. Implementing byway projects in accordance with the design guidelines in Chapter 5 of this plan, as well as other applicable local, state, and federal requirements, will help to ensure that the character of the byway and the lands along it are preserved and enhanced over the long term.

The benefits that relate to transportation include expanding multi-modal options so visitors have more choices in how they travel around and along the Cascade Loop, as well as improving transportation functions as planned and implemented through the Washington State Department of Transportation. There is a strong interest in creating the first continuously “green” scenic byway in Washington and potentially the nation, with electricvehicle charging stations available at convenient hubs all along the Cascade Loop. Providing continuous bicycling facilities (whether bike lanes or trail segments) throughout the entire Cascade Loop is another objective for creating a green corridor. Encouraging visitors to stop and get out of their vehicles to enjoy the many wonderful places along the Cascade Loop is also part of the plan—the more people experience the byway’s unique resources on-foot, bicycle, horseback, canoe, kayak, hot air balloon, or other means, the more up close and memorable their experience will be! Encouraging sustainable travel is also consistent with the importance of preserving the scenic and natural resources that draw people to the Cascade Loop. Expanding multi-modal transportation options also plays an important role in balancing the needs of all byway travelers, visitors and residents alike.

Reducing traffic and congestion is an important consideration along some segments of the Cascade Loop. The more visitors that experience portions of the byway via bicycling, walking, water craft, etc, the less traffic and congestion there will be in those areas and more capacity will be available for residents carrying out their daily business and activities.

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4. Preserving and Protecting Important Resources and Intrinsic Qualities Enhancing the experience of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway is directly related to preservation and protection of the resources that contribute to this experience. There are many resources along the byway that visitors come to experience.

Identifying methods to retain and sustain resources that are the essence of the byway experience is a primary purpose of byway management planning. The byway’s intrinsic qualities are abundant, within all six of the categories recognized by the Federal Highway Administration for their importance to byways: scenic, natural, archaeological, historic, cultural and recreational. Byway plan actions should focus on minimizing impacts to these intrinsic qualities and preserving the unique and sensitive resources of the corridor. Key opportunities within this category include: Analysis of visitor management needs at key sites Enhancement of parks and sites with natural and cultural resources Protection and rehabilitation of historic sites and buildings Preservation of view corridors and key resource lands In the case of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, there are extensive stretches of land in each region that are managed by public agencies and land trust organizations. These land managers are working hard to protect and preserve important resources along the byway on an ongoing basis. The byway holds an important role in supporting these entities in their land management responsibilities. The Cascade Loop Association provides a forum for byway land managers and stewards throughout all regions to come together, coordinate, and plan cooperatively for the future.

FARMS AND BARNS

Are a frequent sight in Snohomish County

5. Improving Community Livability and Economic Vitality Millions of visitors come to experience at least some portion of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway each year. These visitors from other states and nations can gain an in-depth understanding of Washington state—its diversity and the local ways of life in each region. Part of the experience comes from being immersed in the every-day culture of communities along the byway. To residents and business owners, the Cascade Loop is more than a scenic byway. In many cases it may be the route they use to travel to and from home and work. Tourism generated by the byway may be critical to their business and the collective economic health of each community.

For these reasons, the proposed actions in the plan need to address not only visitors’ needs and interests, but also those of the byway’s communities. Cascade Loop Association members are residents and business owners, and they serve a critical role as stewards and volunteers supporting the byway. Byway projects should not only provide opportunities for visitors, but also enhance community livability, economic opportunities, and the quality of life in each region. In addition, the more public and community participation there is in implementing byway projects and actions, the more successful this plan and the byway overall will be.

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Summary of Important Issues and Considerations Influencing Development of the Action Plan Several important issues and considerations have influenced the development of this action plan and the specific projects and actions proposed for the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, including: Gaining a thorough understanding of the existing conditions of the byway and needed enhancements to inform the action plan Obtaining extensive input and comments from community groups, special interests, and the public during byway workshops, meetings, and plan development Reviewing locally adopted plans and policies as well as existing plans of federal and state land management agencies along the byway Aligning proposed actions with the vision, mission, values and goals for the byway (see Chapter 1) and key benefits Relating proposed actions to the intrinsic qualities of the byway Identifying opportunities to enhance visitor facilities and interpretation along the byway, from orientation and information needs at byway gateways and hubs, as well as on board the ferries, to wayside interpretation, wayfinding, roadside pull off areas, and other improvement needs at individual sites Enhancing traveler safety and providing more sustainable multi-modal travel options are important transportation priorities Providing ongoing opportunities for public and stakeholder involvement in the implementation of the corridor management plan and projects identified in the action plan

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Advice for Successful Plan Implementation...

“

...publicize your efforts with an eye toward continuously expanding your base of support. Celebrate the progress as well as the completion of each action.

Success breeds support and future success.

Riverwork Book, National Park Service

“

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Recommended Action Items— Introduction to the Action Plan Summary Table Action items include strategies, programs, enhancements and improvements that when implemented will help accomplish the vision, mission, values and goals of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, The Action Plan Summary Table lists proposed actions for the byway and is organized with actions that pertain to the overall byway listed first, followed by action items for each region of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. A number, title, and description are provided for each action item.

Guide to Information in the Action Plan Summary Table The following categories of information are addressed in the Action Plan Summary Table.

Implementation Timeframe The Action Plan Summary Table shows the anticipated implementation timeframe for each action item.

Many of the recommendations relate to ongoing byway planning and management activities.

Timeframe goals for implementation of each action item are identified according to the following categories.

ONGOING

MID TERM

The action/strategy should occur continuously throughout the future of the byway as part of its ongoing management.

The action should be initiated and completed within four to six years.

NEAR TERM

The action should be initiated and completed within seven to ten years or more.

The action should be initiated and completed within one to three years.

MAZAMA

On the way to Pearrygin Lake

FAR TERM

It is important to note that these timeframe references are goals. Actual timing of implementation will depend on many factors, including the availability of funding, the ability to obtain approvals and permits, the level of detail needed for design, and other influences. Action items identified as “Near Term” are those projects and strategies that can be achieved within a relatively short time (one to three years) and allow the byway organization to continue the momentum and enthusiasm of ongoing project implementation.

In the future, as some of the near term action items are accomplished, the list should be reprioritized and other action items should be moved up in priority. Also, with ongoing planning and community involvement, additional action items can be added to the list in the future.

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Leadership and Partners The Action Plan Summary Table lists a primary lead responsibility for each action item, as well as other partners and interests who may provide support for implementation.

Goals and Benefits As previously described, implementation of specific action items will achieve plan goals and result in benefits under the categories of:

1. Enhancing Visitor Experience 2. Strengthening the Brand Identity and Character of the North Cascades Scenic Highway

WHIDBEY ISLAND

Farmland with forested backdrop

3. Expanding Multi-Modal Transportation Options and Encouraging Green Travel

Resources and Estimated Costs The Action Plan Summary Table provides a description of anticipated resources, such as staffing that may be needed to implement each action item as relevant. Estimated costs are also listed for each action item, which include preliminary projections of the anticipated costs associated with implementation (design, construction, permitting, and other costs) in 2014 dollars. Cost categories shown are as follows.

VERY LOW: < $10,000 LOW: $10,001 to $50,000 MEDIUM: $50,001 to $100,000 HIGH: > $100,000

It is important to note that the higher the estimated cost, the more partners and resources it will likely take for successful implementation. While projects in the “lowest,” “low,” and “medium” categories may be able to be implemented through local fundraising, projects in the “high” category likely will require other funding such as through agency support and grant programs.

4. Preserving and Protecting Important Resources and Intrinsic Qualities 5. Improving Community Livability and Economic Vitality

Action items support multiple of these categories, and in some cases all of them, as identified in the Action Plan Summary Table.

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Implementing and Updating the Action Plan Identifying Potential Projects and Strategies Is Only the First Step

PYBUS MARKET

This action plan is intended to be a guide for future byway planning, management and implementation efforts. The recommended actions are based on community input, review of existing conditions, and a conceptual level of planning. They are suggestions, not mandates or requirements. If pursued, each action item will need further consideration and analysis as part of the implementation process. Further coordination with applicable regulatory agencies and other stakeholders, as well as ongoing public participation, will be necessary.

Wenatcheeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vibrant public marketplace

Project implementation will be contingent on available funding sources and other factors.

Projects potentially considered for funding through capital investment programs will need to be further prioritized as part of town, county, state, or federal capital improvements programming and budgeting.

Individual project sites will need to be analyzed in more detail as part of future design efforts to identify land use approval requirements, determine potential sensitive areas and required mitigation, and identify environmental and land use permitting requirements. Projects will need to be designed and implemented in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal standards and guidelines. Geotechnical analysis, biological assessments, wetland delineations, wildlife habitat analysis, and other types of studies may be required as part of project implementation. For additional guidance related to project implementation, including planning and design, refer to Chapter 8 of this corridor management plan.

Updating the Action Plan It is recognized that the priorities of the communities along the byway may change over time, and the Action Plan should be reviewed periodically, updated and amended as necessary, adding new strategies and projects, and removing those that have become reality. It may also be necessary to assign new timeframe goals to the recommendations.

Funding and Resources for Implementation Potential funding sources and other resources that may be available to support the projects and actions are diverse. Projects/actions may be eligible for multiple sources of funding.

The byway partners will need to further research these sources to determine applicability. A list of potential funding sources is provided in Chapter 8 of this corridor management plan.

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ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

GOALS AND BENEFITS

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Near Term

Minimum one full time staff; possible one part time staff; volunteer time for group/task force involvement

Cascade Loop Association

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Near Term (At Next Call for Applications)

Staff/task force involvement

Cascade Loop Association, working with WSDOT, state legislators, members of Congress, and partners throughout all regions

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2

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Cascade Loop Overall CL

Cascade Loop Association will provide ongoing management and coordination for the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway and should: Continue to fund a full-time staff position and explore the possibility of hiring a part-time administrative assistant.

Appoint one lead and one alternate for each region to meet regularly (four times per year?).

Set the CMP action plan as this group’s (task force’s) work plan.

Reappoint group/task force members every two years.

CL

Pursue All-American Road designation (through National Scenic Byways Program). The first step will be to coordinate with WSDOT, adding portions of SR 525, SR 526, I-5, and US Highway 2 from Mukilteo to Monroe to the State Scenic and Recreational Highway System.

CL

Research and pursue funding and grant opportunities for projects along the Cascade Loop.

Near Term

Staff/task force involvement

Cascade Loop Association and Partners

    

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Develop a Wayshowing and Signing Master Plan with design templates for signs (see separate project to design, fabricate and install signs below). See Chapter 5 for more detail.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Medium

Cascade Loop Association

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Update and expand the Cascade Loop brand and develop a branding/ graphic design/sign design package that encompasses the identity of the nine regions.

Near Term

Staff/task force involvement

Cascade Loop Association

 



Develop an Interpretive Plan to study best physical locations and topics for interpretive/informational kiosks and wayside improvements. Create design templates for distinctive kiosks, located near the entrance to each region and designed in the Rustic Cascadian style. See Chapter 5 for more detail.

Near Term

Cascade Loop Association

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Estimated Cost: Medium Estimated Cost: Medium

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ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION Finalize design for and develop a system of wayshowing elements (signs and kiosks) for the Cascade Loop as follows.

Byway logo (trailblazer) signs/route markers designed and located in accordance with WSDOT standards (see conceptual ideas in the CMP)

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Near Term for Design; Mid-Term to Ongoing for Implementation

Staff/task force involvement

Cascade Loop Association and Partners

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Ongoing

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium (each mural)

Varies; Cascade Loop Association in overall support role

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Near Term to Long Term

Staff/task force involvement

Cascade Loop Association

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Mid-Term to Long Term

Estimated Cost: High

Plug-In NCW and WA State EV Working Group

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Staff/volunteer time

WSDOT, with support from Cascade Loop Association, Communities, and Partners

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Larger, distinctive gateway signs at each change in region, designed in the Rustic Cascadian style (see conceptual ideas in the CMP) Directional signs located upon approach to the Cascade Loop, designed in accordance with WSDOT standards (see conceptual ideas in CMP) Information/interpretive kiosks at improved wayside locations This key project is described in more detail in Chapter 5 of the corridor management plan.

CL

Support ongoing creation of murals in small towns/communities along the Cascade Loop, a tradition that has already started.

CL

Utilize technology to develop communications and collateral materials that express the updated branding, mapping, and graphic design for the Cascade Loop, These materials could include:

8 9

Website, Mobile app, Audio listening posts (possible partnership with IRIS), Online souvenir shopping cart, Series of informational brochures, and Children’s activity book.

CL

10

Continue to support and research funding opportunities for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations infrastructure throughout Loop: EV infrastructure exists in Regions 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6; Sultan, Skykomish, Leavenworth, and Wenatchee.

NCWEDD and Plug-In NCW are interested in collaborating with Cascade Loop and Cascade Loop has offered to support NCWEDD efforts.

CL

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Work with WSDOT to develop continuous bike lanes and trail segments around the Cascade Loop. Pursue tie-in with planned crosscountry bike route.

Estimated Cost: High (to complete improvements)

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Galvanize partnerships around the entire loop through coordinated planning and activities.

CL

Develop signature experiences/self-guided tours to attract visitors in different market segments. Experiences should be truly unique; “can’t miss”; sellable, meaning you must have to purchase some aspect of the experience; not limited to one specific event. Activities could include group tours, bike tours, etc.

12

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IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association, Communities around the Cascade Loop, and Partners

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Near Term and Ongoing

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium, leveraging staff time

NCWEDD (BC partners implementing similar scheme.)

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4

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Potential visitor market segments could include: Retirees, Outdoor Recreation Enthusiasts, Families with Young Children, and Others to be Identified.

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Help create a network of local experts representing each region along the Cascade Loop that focuses on regional history and culture, in an effort to educate travelers on each region’s unique story. Partner with local museums, historians, land trusts and chambers of commerce.

Near Term and Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association, Communities around the Cascade Loop, and Partners

CL

Work with partners to identify sites that need protection and build protection mechanisms into future planning and projects.

Near Term and Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association

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Include Cascade Loop Corridor areas (e.g. Plain-Lake Wenatchee Loop) in future plans (e.g. a unified signage plan) and future marketing (e.g. the Cascade Loop Guidebook).

Near Term and Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association

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ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

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GOALS AND BENEFITS 1

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SRV

Work with Washington State Ferries to promote and market the Cascade Loop via displays/posted information onboard the ferry and at the ferry terminals; could be a map poster graphic created specifically for this purpose.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Low (staff coordination and then production of display materials)

Cascade Loop Association working with Washington State Ferries

SRV

Identify locations for Cascade Loop Scenic Highway wayside stops with kiosks in Region 1 and provide interpretation related to local history and natural resources. Consider other programs and methods to enhance the sense of gateway to the Cascade Loop in Region 1 communities (Mukilteo, Snohomish, and Monroe).

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low (staff coordination and then building actions into local marketing/ promotional efforts)

City of Mukilteo, City of Snohomish, City of Monroe, local chambers of commerce, and other partners working with the Cascade Loop Association

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SRV

Support ongoing Japanese Gulch trail development (in the Mukilteo Speedway vicinity) and expansion. Provide historical interpretation about Japanese heritage in Mukilteo and other historical themes.

Ongoing

Estimated Cost: High

City of Mukilteo with support of Cascade Loop partners



Consider locations and raise funding to install photo opportunity kiosks/booths designed to support smart phone/camera use at key locations. Locations could be found by GPS coordinates. QR codes could be provided at these locations that link to electronic stories (natural and cultural history interpretation).

Near Term: Define Project and Locations

Estimated Cost in Near Term: Very Low

 

Mid-Term: Seek Funding and Implement

Mid-Term: Low to Medium

City of Mukilteo with support of Cascade Loop partners; could expand over entire Loop

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low to Low

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2

3

SRV

4

SRV

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Provide additional signing in Snohomish to clarify how to get to the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. Also encourage visitors to take Bickford Avenue exit and go down 1st Street; link Cascade Loop visitors to Snohomish history.

City may need to provide local match to federal and state grants and allocate local capital funding

City of Snohomish with support of Cascade Loop partners

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ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

SRV

Complete Centennial Trail through Monroe and to the south; with signing improvements to enhance trail use and interpretation to convey historical themes (Snohomish to Bryant is 60 miles roundtrip with multiple access points and plans to connect with Skagit Valley).

Mid-Term

Estimated Cost: High

City of Monroe, with support of Cascade Loop partners



SRV

Provide additional signing in Monroe to clarify the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway route (straight to follow the Cascade Loop). Also use signing to encourage visitors to take a loop off Highway 2 to go down historic main street in Monroe.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low

City of Monroe with support of Cascade Loop partners; coordinate with WSDOT

    

SRV

Support the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) in ongoing plans for improvements to Highway 2 to reduce traffic congestion and enhance safety with a focus on the segment from Monroe to the east.

Ongoing

Estimated Cost: High (for highway improvements)

WSDOT with support from local communities and Cascade Loop partners





SRV

Work with WSDOT to implement continuous bike lanes and/or separated shared use paths (paralleling the route) throughout this region of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. The first step of this action could be a nonmotorized transportation analysis/study for the Cascade Loop to identify gaps in existing bicycling facilities.

Near Term: Nonmotorized transportation analysis/study

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium for analysis/study

Cascade Loop Association, local communities and partners working with WSDOT



  

6

7

8

9

Mid-Term: seek funding Long Term: implementation

High (for bike lane improvements)

1

2

3

4

5

  



Action Plan

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

H I G H W A Y

GOALS AND BENEFITS

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low (This action involves coordination time; implementation would occur under action CL-7)

Local communities, Cascade Loop Association, and Partners

    

Near Term to Mid-Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low to Low

Local communities, Cascade Loop Association, and partners working with WSDOT working together with support of Cascade Loop Association

    

1

2

3

4

5

Region 2 | Stevens Pass Greenway SP

Identify locations for Cascade Loop Scenic Highway wayside stops with kiosks in Region 2 and provide interpretation related to local history and natural resources.

SP

Enhanced highway signing to direct visitors in this region:

1

2

In advance of viewpoint pull offs along the river, Alternative, off-highway routes for bicyclists and pedestrians, On US Highway 2 for “Osprey Park Trails,” To public restrooms, To interpretive center, and To Cascade Loop Scenic Highway.

SP

At the Sultan’s Travelers Park Rest stop: re-landscape area between US Highway 2 and railroad; include restrooms, parking, interpretive kiosks, walkways; and provide interpretation about logging history.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: High

City of Sultan, Sky Valley Chamber of Commerce, Stevens Pass Greenway



SP

Build pedestrian trail and bridge connections between the four parks in Sultan.

Mid-Term and Ongoing

Estimated Cost: High

City of Sultan, Sky Valley Chamber







SP

Develop the trail under US Highway 2 bridge along the Skykomish River in Sultan.

Ongoing

Estimated Cost: High

City of Sultan







SP

6

Install information/welcome signs in City of Sultan. Incorporate Cascade Loop logo and/or reinforce the sense of gateway to the Cascade Loop in Sultan.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium

City of Sultan

 



SP

Install zip line between Osprey and Reese Parks in Sultan.

Mid-Term (Research began in June 2013.)

Estimated Cost: Medium to High

City of Sultan





3

4 5

7

 

C O R R I D O R

NO.

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

Action Plan

GOALS AND BENEFITS

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Near Term (Discussions began in June 2013.)

Estimated Cost: Medium

Sky Valley Chamber



 

1

2

3

4

5

SP

Reopen Wallace River wayside area for fishermen in Startup.

SP

Add camping / RV hookups to Steelhead County Park.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Medium to High

Snohomish County Parks



 

SP

Gold Bar Highway Park: re-landscape area between US Highway 2 and railroad; include parking, interpretive kiosks, walkways; and provide interpretation about area gold mining history.

Mid-Term

Estimated Cost: High

Sky Valley Chamber, City of Gold Bar



 

SP

Study potential to develop additional pull-off areas and travelers rests for viewing river, etc., particularly in the Sky Valley/Skykomish area.

Near Term (Study)

Estimated Cost: Medium (for study);

Local Cascade Loop Association representatives working with WSDOT



  

Skykomish community, supported by Cascade Loop Association and partners



  

8 9

10 11

SP

12

High (for implementation) Support full implementation of the Skykomish visitor center.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low for staff/ volunteer support CONFIRM: ARE FUNDS NEEDED FOR VISITOR CENTER <?>

SP

Develop Stevens Pass interpretive wayside. Interpret pass history; skiing and winter sports; and first ski area in nation to install EV charging stations.

SP

Support the US Forest Service and coordinate with them to determine if camping and picnicking areas can open earlier in the season (when snow melts) and stay open later (until snow falls).

13 14

Near to Mid Term

Estimated Cost: Medium

Stevens Pass Greenway and Partners



  

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low for initial staff/volunteer coordination

Cascade Loop Association and partners coordinating with US Forest Service staff



 

Estimated Cost related to implementation TBD, but likely medium to high; may require additional funding or volunteer resources

Action Plan

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

H I G H W A Y

GOALS AND BENEFITS 1

2

3

4

5

SP

Actively promote the historic Plain and the Plain-Lake Wenatchee Loop as a side tour of the Cascade Loop.

Near Term and Ongoing

Estimated Cost: Very Low for promotional activities

Cascade Loop Association, Plain, and Leavenworth tourism organizations

    

SP

Develop historical wayside/travelers rest with information/ interpretive kiosk in Plain. Provide interpretation about history of Plain (possible location at corner before right onto Chiwawa Loop road near Mountain Springs Lodge adjacent to historical homestead and barns).

Provide a few parking spaces and possibly a vault restroom.

Near Term (define project) Mid-term

Estimated Cost: High

Cascade Loop Association and partners

    

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium for analysis/study

Cascade Loop Association, local communities and partners working with WSDOT

15

16

SP

17

Work with WSDOT to implement continuous bike lanes and/or separated shared use paths (paralleling the route) throughout this region of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. The first step of this action could be a nonmotorized transportation analysis/study for the Cascade Loop to identify gaps in existing bicycling facilities.

(seek funding and implement) Near Term: Nonmotorized transportation analysis/study Mid-Term: seek funding Long Term: implementation

High (for bike lane improvements)



  

C O R R I D O R

NO.

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

Action Plan

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

GOALS AND BENEFITS 1

2

3

4

5

Region 3 | Leavenworth/Cascade Foothills   



L/CF

Work with WSDOT to enhance signing before coming to Leavenworth, before speed limit changes to 30 mph to identify upcoming town. This is an important entrance/gateway to the Cascade Loop.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Low

Leavenworth representatives, Cascade Loop Association, and partners working with WSDOT

L/CF

Identify locations for Cascade Loop Scenic Highway wayside stops with kiosks in Region 3 and provide interpretation related to local history and natural resources; consider other programs and methods to enhance the sense of gateway to the Cascade Loop in Region 3 communities.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low (staff coordination and then building actions into local marketing/ promotional efforts)

Local communities and tourism partners working with the Cascade Loop Association

L/CF

Continue to promote and support agritourism and culinary opportunities including fruit stands, wineries, local foods, etc. related to this region.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and partners



 

L/CF

Help promote Cashmere as a key whitewater rafting destination on the Cascade Loop.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and partners



 

L/CF

Educate visitors about Leavenworth heritage and culture (partner with Barn Beach Reserve and local museum).

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and partners



 

L/CF

Create an electronic trail map/web-based trail mapping system that would allow hikers and backpackers to view the extensive trail network in the Leavenworth area interactively. Viewers could potentially search by keyword, create custom trip itineraries, and print out maps and expert content.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Medium to High

Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce supported

by Cascade Loop Association and partners



 

L/CF

Create electronic historical tour with accompanying signs and maps.

This would be a web-based interactive tour of Leavenworth’s unique historical points of interest with signage and maps on the ground corresponding to the electronic tour.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Medium to High

Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce supported by Cascade Loop Association and partners



 

1

2

3

4 5

6

7

    

Action Plan

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

H I G H W A Y

GOALS AND BENEFITS

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

L/CF

Install roadside signs for wine grapes and other specific agricultural crops and activities. Identity signs would be posted along highways and roads to delineate crops in area.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low

Cascade Farmlands would take the lead; engage US Department of Agriculture (through Forest Service) as they have supported these types of projects in the past



 

L/CF

Develop river interpretive signs in Leavenworth. Develop and install wildlife and habitat interpretive signs and displays to educate visitors and the public on the environment and natural history of the area.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Medium (including design, permitting, fabrication, and installation and assuming up to ten locations)

Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce and Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery, supported by Cascade Loop Association and partners



 

L/CF

Updated Ski Jump/Memorial Ski Lodge: revitalize for use and potentially for competitions. The historical lodge needs support and funding for revitalization and memorial tribute to the Tunnel Creek victims. Provide interpretation about history of ski jump and lodge as well as tribute displays/monumentation.

Mid-Term

Estimated Cost: High

Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce and Leavenworth Ski Hill Association, supported by Cascade Loop Association and partners



 

L/CF

Work with WSDOT to implement continuous bike lanes and/or separated shared use paths (paralleling the route) throughout this region of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. The first step of this action could be a nonmotorized transportation analysis/study for the Cascade Loop to identify gaps in existing bicycling facilities.

Near Term: Nonmotorized transportation analysis/study

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium for analysis/study

Cascade Loop Association, local communities and partners working with WSDOT



  

8

9

10

11

Mid-Term: seek funding Long Term: implementation

High (for bike lane improvements)

1

2

3

4

5

C O R R I D O R

NO.

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

Action Plan

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

GOALS AND BENEFITS

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Estimated Cost: Medium

Local partners and interests with support from Cascade Loop Association

    

    

1

2

3

4

5

Region 4 | Wenatchee/Columbia River Valley W/CRV

1

Develop gateway/signage/kiosks related to Cascade Loop Scenic Highway at US Highway 2/97A-Wenatchee toward Chelan; and via Sleepy Hollow/Sunnyslope. Provide natural and cultural history interpretation related to local area.

Near Term: (define project as part of system of kiosks) Mid-Term: seek funding and implement

W/CRV

Identify other potential locations for Cascade Loop Scenic Highway wayside stops with kiosks in Region 4 and provide interpretation related to local history and natural resources. Consider other programs and methods to enhance the sense of gateway to the Cascade Loop in this region.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low (staff coordination and then building actions into local marketing/ promotional efforts)

Local interests and partners working with the Cascade Loop Association

W/CRV

Work with WSDOT to provide enhanced signing to better guide travelers coming in on US Highway 2, circling to Odabashian bridge, guiding them on the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Low

Cascade Loop Association and local partners/ interests working with WSDOT

  

W/CRV

Continue to promote and support agritourism and culinary opportunities including fruit stands, wineries, local foods, etc. related to this region.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners in support and promotional role



 

W/CRV

Continue to promote water activities and paddling opportunities as part of the “Greater Columbia Water Trail.”

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners in promotional role



 

W/CRV

Strengthen Wenatchee’s identity as a ski town and promote winter experiences.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners in promotional role



 

W/CRV

Support north-end beautification and traffic congestion efforts in Wenatchee (partner with Wenatchee Valley Transportation Council).

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners in support role



 

2

3

4

5

6

7



Action Plan

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

H I G H W A Y

GOALS AND BENEFITS 1

2

3

4

5

W/CRV

Help promote Wenatchee as a hub for outdoor recreation--water sports, hiking and biking in warm months--skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing in Winter months (partnering with Chelan-Douglas Land Trust, Wenatchee Paddle Club, Mission Ridge).

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners in promotional role



 

W/CRV

Help promote Wenatchee's historic Downtown and agricultural heritage (partner with Wenatchee Downtown Association, Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center, Wenatchee Chamber of Commerce).

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners in support and promotional role



 

W/CRV

Provide education/outreach to expand awareness of public transportation in the region (partnering with Link Transit).

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association working with Link Transit and local partners



  

W/CRV

In Entiat, support renovation of Entiat Park, a camping park on Lake Entiat: double the size of the boat launch, re-align the RV spaces and road, replace aging restrooms, and install a waterfront trail that will run the full length of the park, cross under the 97A bridge, and connect to a trail on the Entiat River at the future site of the Entiaqua Outdoor Learning Center. The park will be completely renovated as part of the relicensing agreement with FERC.

Near Term (Fall 2013)

Already Funded

Chelan County PUD; with support from City of Entiat; Cascade Loop Association in support and promotional role



 

W/CRV

Support City of Entiat waterfront redevelopment: a trail that will connect to the PUD trail, a trailhead with restroom and parking area, a touch point for water access, and a new access road from Hwy 97A. All amenities at both sites will be ADA compliant. Total trail will be approximately 6 miles between the two projects. Include an electric vehicle charging station at this trailhead in the future, Trailhead would be a good location for interpretation about natural and cultural history and for a Cascade Loop information/interpretive kiosk.

Near Term (Note: Bid opened in May 2013; construction began summer 2013); request is for ongoing promotion and improvements such as EV charging station

Most improvements are already funded. Need additional funding for EV charging station, kiosk, and interpretation

City of Entiat with funding from RCO, Port of Chelan County, City of Entiat, CDBG, Department of Commerce, and a local donation; Cascade Loop Association in support and promotional role

    

W/CRV

Support the Entiat community’s development of 65-slip full service public marina in Entiat adjacent to the City’s trailhead site, and will include a fueling station and a pump-out station. Possible location for EV charging station and interpretive displays about the Columbia River.

Mid-Term (Note: In design and permitting stage)

Construction Funding Needed Estimated Cost: High

City of Entiat with funding from RCO, City, and Port of Chelan County; Cascade Loop Association in support and promotional role



8

9

10

11

12

13

  

C O R R I D O R

NO. W/CRV

14

W/CRV

15

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION Support community’s development of new city hall and library in Entiat (could be a location for EV charging station and/or Cascade Loop Scenic Highway kiosk) — continue to explore options.

Work with WSDOT to implement continuous bike lanes and/or separated shared use paths (paralleling the route) throughout this region of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. The first step of this action could be a nonmotorized transportation analysis/study for the Cascade Loop to identify gaps in existing bicycling facilities.

Action Plan

GOALS AND BENEFITS

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Long Term

Estimated Cost: High

City of Entiat; Cascade Loop Association in support/ promotional role

  

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium for analysis/study

Cascade Loop Association, local communities and partners working with WSDOT



Near Term: Nonmotorized transportation analysis/study Mid-Term: seek funding Long Term: implementation

High (for bike lane improvements)

1

2

?

3

?

4

5



  

Action Plan

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

H I G H W A Y

GOALS AND BENEFITS

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low (staff coordination and then building actions into local marketing/ promotional efforts)

Local communities and tourism partners working with the Cascade Loop Association

Near Term and Ongoing

Estimated Cost: Medium to High Depending on Amenities Provided

Local interests and partners with support from Cascade Loop Association



  

1

2

3

4

5

Region 5 | Lake Chelan Valley     

LCV

Identify locations for Cascade Loop Scenic Highway wayside stops with kiosks in Region 5 and provide interpretation related to local history and natural resources, Consider other programs and methods to enhance the sense of gateway to the Cascade Loop in Region 5 communities.

LCV

Develop walk/ride access around the south end of Lake Chelan (Manson to Chelan to South Shore). Could possibly split into three sections and implement in phases; connect all areas of lakeside trail from Manson to city of Chelan.

LCV

Develop and promote Manson Scenic Loop; 3-4 overlays, 5-mile route, 10-mile route; signage and publishing needed. Match these overlays and wayfinding signage around the whole north and south shores (see action below).

Near Term

Estimated Cost: High

Local interests and partners with support from Cascade Loop Association



 

LCV

4

Develop wayfinding signage for all parks on the north shore, south shore, and Chelan Falls and create wayfinding signs for Beebe Reserve in Chelan Falls area.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: High

Local interests and partners with support from Cascade Loop Association



 

LCV

Develop Manson Lookout pocket park on Chapman Road and Chelan Butte.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: High

Local interests and partners



 

LCV

Develop Manson welcome center kiosk and view point. (Also see additional action items of this region for other proposed kiosk locations.)

Mid-Term to Long Term

Estimated Cost: High

Local interests and partners with support from the Cascade Loop Association

1

2

3

5

6

    

C O R R I D O R

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

LCV

Install gateway/signage/kiosks on US 97 and 97A; north and south including the approach to Lake Chelan from Wenatchee and the approach from Spokane. Provide information and interpretive kiosks and enhanced sense of entrance to region.

7

Action Plan

GOALS AND BENEFITS

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Near Term: define specific locations and project details

Estimated Cost: Very low for initial, near-term work; high for implementation assuming four locations

Local interests and partners with support from the Cascade Loop Association and involving close coordination with WSDOT

Estimated Cost: High

Local interests and partners; Cascade Loop Association in support role



 

Local interests and partners



 

Mid-Term: seek funding and implement

2

3

4

5

    

LCV

Expand Manson Bay Park (on waterfront).

LCV

Rebuild Sullivan pocket park.

LCV

Create or integrate mapping of camping locations into Cascade Loop guide (including locations of RV parks).

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low

Cascade Loop Association, working with local interests



 

LCV

Install Manson community entry signage (Welcome to Manson) at Madeline Road and waterfront with enhanced pull-off/wayside parking area. Better signage is also needed at Manson Bay Park, Singleton Park, Don Morse Park, and marina/waterfronts.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Medium

Local interests and partners with Cascade Loop Association in support role



 

LCV

Enhance wayfinding signage to reinforce the Chelan to Manson Village “side trip.”

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Medium

Local interests and partners with Cascade Loop Association in a support role



 

LCV

Enhance wayfinding signage in the downtown areas of Chelan and Manson.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Medium

Local interests and partners with Cascade Loop Association in a support role



 

8

9

10 11

12

13

Near Term

1

Near Term (Note: have design, need contractor to rebuild 2009 project)

Action Plan

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

H I G H W A Y

GOALS AND BENEFITS

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

LCV

Continue to promote and support agritourism and culinary opportunities related to this region; fruit stands, wineries, local foods, and farm-to-table experiences.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners in promotional role



 

LCV

Continue to promote water activities and paddling opportunities as part of the “Greater Columbia Water Trail” and Lake Chelan; consider possibility of creating interpretive water trail (on paddle boards).

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners in promotional role



 

LCV

Continue to promote the unique experience of Lake Chelan and visiting Stehekin, part of the North Cascades National Park Complex.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners in promotional role



 

LCV

Continue to promote Chelan's historic Downtown and wine AVA .

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association in promotional role and in partnership with Historic Downtown Chelan and Lake Chelan Wine Valley



 

LCV

Create wine trail and historical interpretive tour around Lake Chelan’s north and south shore with points of historical interest for tree fruit and wine.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Medium

Local Interests with Cascade Loop Association in support role



 

LCV

19

Turn the “Discover Lake Chelan Historical Points” along the lake into actual signage. Consider potential of tying in to web-based information with QR codes at sign locations.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Medium to High

Local Interests with Cascade Loop Association in support role



 

LCV

Revitalize and create “legend” signs at viewpoints around Lake Chelan.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Low

Local interests with Cascade Loop Association in support role



 

14

15

16

17

18

20

1

2

3

4

5

C O R R I D O R

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

Action Plan

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Near Term: define specific locations and project details

Estimated Cost: Very low for initial, near-term work; high for implementation assuming several locations

Local interests and partners with support from the Cascade Loop Association and involving close coordination with WSDOT

GOALS AND BENEFITS

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

LCV

21

Develop interpretive/information kiosks at public access points such as potentially the Lady of the Lake, Manson Bay Park, visitor centers, etc. Tie in to Cascade Loop Scenic Highway branding.

LCV

Identify tribal lands and denote them with wayfinding and maps.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium

Cascade Loop Association and local interests working with tribal representatives



 

LCV

Promote additional region-specific cultural heritage points of interest on maps in the Cascade Loop guide.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Low

Cascade Loop Association and local interests working with tribal representatives

 

 

LCV

Work with fruit growers to create community center, apple or tree fruit history center in Downtown Manson Shed.

Long Term

Estimated Cost: High

Local interests/ partners with Cascade Loop Association in support role



 

LCV

Extend trail systems in area, including:

Near Term and Ongoing

Estimated Cost: High (costs vary per project)

City of Chelan, Chelan County, Chelan PUD, Department of Natural Resources, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, with Cascade Loop Association in support role



  

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Medium to High (to be determined)

City of Chelan, Chelan PUD, Chelan Valley Cultural Organizations, with Cascade Loop Association in support role



 

22

23

24

25

East Chelan—Union Valley, Chelan Butte at Elephant Head and beyond, and Chelan River Gorge to Beebe Springs Complex.

LCV

26

Enhance Lady of the Lake Wheelhouse and kiosks in Riverwalk Park.

1

2

3

4

5

    

Action Plan

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

H I G H W A Y

GOALS AND BENEFITS

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

LCV

Encourage use of Chelan County and Forest Service backroads for ATVs.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low

Manson Community Council, Chelan County, Forest Service

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LCV

Develop Beebe bicycle and pedestrian cable suspension bridge over the Columbia River.

Long Term

Estimated Cost: High (very high)

City of Chelan, Chelan County, Chelan Chamber of Commerce, Chelan PUD, WSDOT, with Cascade Loop Association in support role

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LCV

Encourage and promote high quality musical events and entertainment in the area.

Near Term and Ongoing

Estimated Cost: Very Low (for promotional activities)

Chamber of Commerce, local partners, with Cascade Loop Association in support and promotional role

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LCV

Encourage and promote classic automotive tourism events and cruises.

Near Term and Ongoing

Estimated Cost: Very Low (for promotional activities)

Chamber of Commerce, local partners, with Cascade Loop Association in support and promotional role

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LCV

Work with WSDOT to implement continuous bike lanes and/or separated shared use paths (paralleling the route) throughout this region of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. The first step of this action could be a nonmotorized transportation analysis/study for the Cascade Loop to identify gaps in existing bicycling facilities.

Near Term: Nonmotorized transportation analysis/study

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium for analysis/study

Cascade Loop Association, local communities and partners working with WSDOT

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27

28

29

30

31

Mid-Term: seek funding

High (for bike lane improvements)

1

2

3

4

5

C O R R I D O R

NO.

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

Action Plan

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

GOALS AND BENEFITS 1

2

3

4

5

Region 6 | The Methow Valley TM

Work with WSDOT to provide enhanced signing for directions to towns/entrances to towns, particularly Twisp (Main Street). Also add “Share the Road” signs in this region.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium

Local interests and partners working with WSDOT; Cascade Loop Association in support role

TM

Evaluate and select locations to install Cascade Loop Scenic Highway interpretive/information kiosks in this region (potential locations to be determined).

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low to evaluate and confirm locations;

Local partners and interests working with the Cascade Loop Association

1

2

Medium to High for design and installation depending on number installed

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TM

Continue to promote and support agritourism and culinary opportunities related to this region; fruit stands, wineries, local/handcrafted foods and beverages, and farm-to-table experiences.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners

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TM

Continue to integrate stewardship messages into visitor promotional and educational materials.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners

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TM

Continue to promote the Methow Valley as an arts and culture tourism destination.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners

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TM

Continue to promote the Methow Valley as an active lifestyle destination; emphasize that the valley is the eastern gateway to the North Cascades; provide links to outdoor recreation information in guide.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners

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TM

Work with WSDOT to address roadway surfacing and noise issues (chipseal causes issues for cyclists/bicyclists).

Near Term

Estimated Cost: High (to address surfacing/ noise issues)

Local interests and partners working with WSDOT; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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3

4 5

6 7

Action Plan

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

TM

Support Twisp riverfront trail development.

TM

Work with partner organizations to improve promotional materials; seek better outdoor recreation images, etc.

TM

Explore the potential of installing an emergency roadside phone (satellite based?) on the east side of the pass to report accidents. This area is remote and communications may not be possible in the near term; but over time technology may advance,

TM

Enhance signing to provide information and orientation to visitors entering the most highly used hiking areas of the national forest and national park lands, including those up the Twisp River valley. The signing needs to match national park/national forest style and quality of the west side.

8

9

10

11

TM

12

Work with WSDOT to implement continuous bike lanes and/or separated shared use paths (paralleling the route) throughout this region of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. The first step of this action could be a nonmotorized transportation analysis/study for the Cascade Loop to identify missing gaps in bicycling facilities.

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

H I G H W A Y

GOALS AND BENEFITS

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Near Term

Estimated Cost: High

City of Twisp and local partners; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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Near Term and Ongoing

Estimated Cost: Low

Cascade Loop Association and local partners

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Ongoing

Estimated Cost: Medium to High

Local interests and partners working with WSDOT and US Forest Service; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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Near Term: Coordinate with partners

Estimated Cost: Medium

Local interests and partners, Twisp Visitor Information Center, US Forest Service, National Park Service; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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Estimated Cost: Low to Medium for analysis/study

Cascade Loop Association, local communities and partners working with WSDOT

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Mid-Term: Seek funding and implement

Near Term: Nonmotorized transportation analysis/study Mid-Term: Seek funding Long Term: implementation

High (for bike lane improvements)

1

2

3

4

5

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C O R R I D O R

NO.

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

Action Plan

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low to evaluate and confirm locations;

Local partners and interests working with the Cascade Loop Association

GOALS AND BENEFITS 1

2

3

4

5

Region 7 | North Cascades NC

1

Evaluate and select locations to install Cascade Loop Scenic Highway interpretive/information kiosks in this region; locations to be determined (see note about potential location in Concrete below)

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Medium to High for design and installation depending on number installed NC

2

Coordinate with the US Forest Service to determine the possibility of expanding and improving the Lone Fir Campground with partnership support. Also coordinate with the US Forest Service on the potential to implement other projects and improvements over time, such as: Vista clearing and firewise thinking along SR 20 route, Vista pull-off at open area below Swamp Creek with view to Mesahchie Glacier and development of interpretive displays about the glacier, Development of safe and convenient parking at the hairpin in the avalanche runout with context sensitive vault toilet that could be removed seasonally to preclude avalanche damage, Building an interpretive loop trail up to the airplane wreck site; featuring a way for casual hikers to see Alpine Larch up close, Building a parking area immediately adjacent to the Silver Star gate for skiing (for use before Cutthroat opens seasonally), Building a parking area at the high point above and east of Varden Creek for skiers, and Building a parking area with loop road access between Klipchuck and Cedar Creeks, including closure gate just above Klipchuck for use as snowmobile and snowshoe parking area.

Near Term: Meet with US Forest Service to determine feasibility; discuss potential for partnership support Mid-Term to Long Term: Seek funding and implement improvements

Estimated Cost: High

Local interests and partners working with the US Forest Service (Mike Liu is Winthrop District Ranger); Cascade Loop Association in support role

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Action Plan

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

NC

Coordinate with WSDOT to improve and enhance maintenance shed area at Early Winters. Clarify MVSTA trailhead parking.

3

Build a coalition of partners to support re-opening and refurbishing the Early Winters Guard Station. Would not need rest area at hairpin turn (see NC-2 above) if old Guard Station could be reopened. This was previously attempted but did not move forward. Over the long term it may be worth revisiting. Refurbishing could create displays with information to orient snowmobilers, backcountry skiers, and others and provide safety guidance about avalanche preparedness and avalanche closures.

NC

Coordinate and partner with snowmobile clubs to provide outreach about wildlife closure areas.

NC

Coordinate with the US Forest Service to determine the possibility of expanding the Cutthroat Trailhead. Install a closure gate and improve parking. Expand accessibility to spring skiing before the pass opens.

5

6

7

Coordinate with the US Forest Service to determine the possibility of expanding the Blue Lake Trailhead and parking area, along with a loop road between parking and Washington Pass. This would enable potential for future campground/climbers’ hostel on the bench below the trail while supplying more parking in the short term (avoids the need to disrupt current parking which is heavily overused). Also install closure gate to allow east side access during west side closure events, together with a Washington Pass meadow loop trail. (This will help to prevent the area being impacted by visitor-created trails.)

S C E N I C

H I G H W A Y

GOALS AND BENEFITS

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Near Term: Meet with agencies

Estimated Cost: Medium to High

Local interests and partners coordinating with WSDOT; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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Mid-Term to Long Term

Estimated Cost: High

Local interests and partners (NGOs, Audubon, etc.) working with US Forest Service, WSDOT, NPS, and others; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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Ongoing

Estimated Cost: Very Low

Local interests and partners

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Near Term: Meet with US Forest Service

Estimated Cost: High

Local interests and partners working with the US Forest Service (Mike Liu is Winthrop District Ranger); Cascade Loop Association in support role

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Estimated Cost: High

Local interests and partners working with the US Forest Service (Mike Liu is Winthrop District Ranger); Cascade Loop Association in support role

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Mid-Term to Long Term: Seek funding and implement improvements NC

L O O P

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

to explore options and discuss partnership potential Mid-Term to Long Term: Seek funding and implement improvements

NC

4

C A S C A D E

Near Term: Meet with US Forest Service Mid-Term to Long Term: Seek funding and implement improvements

1

2

3

4

5

C O R R I D O R

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

Action Plan

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium

Echo Ridge in partnership with Lake Chelan, coordinating with WSDOT; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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Estimated Cost: High

Local interests and partners working with the US Forest Service (Mike Liu is Winthrop District Ranger); Cascade Loop Association in support role

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NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

NC

Coordinate with WSDOT to determine how the Blue Lake parking area can be plowed more regularly for use by cross-country skiers. The efforts of the Nordic Club might be a model to explore.

Near Term

Coordinate with the US Forest Service to determine the possibility of expanding the Bridge Creek Trailhead.

Near Term: Meet with US Forest Service

8

NC

9

GOALS AND BENEFITS

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

Can private partnership funding help support public operations?

Mid-Term to Long Term: Seek funding and implement improvements

1

2

3

4

5

NC

Coordinate with the US Forest Service to explore the potential of remodeling the building at Washington Pass and creating a self-guided interpretive center. Also coordinate with the US Forest Service on potentially expanding the period of time that the comfort station is open (keeping the comfort station operational during the same time that the road is open).

Near Term: Meet with US Forest Service

Estimated Cost: High

Local interests and partners working with the US Forest Service (Mike Liu is Winthrop District Ranger); Cascade Loop Association in support role

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NC

Enhance signing to provide information and orientation to visitors entering the most highly used hiking areas of the national forest and national park lands. The signing needs to match national park/national forest style and quality of the west side. Enhanced signing along SR 20, is needed to:

Near Term: coordinate with partners

Estimated Cost: Medium

Local interests and partners, WSDOT, Twisp Visitor Information Center, US Forest Service, National Park Service; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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10

11

Better identify visitor sites and pull off areas in advance, Better identify the visitor center, which is hidden causing travelers to pass by without knowing that it is there, Provide a greater sense of entering and exiting the national park and national forest lands, and Alert drivers of “Slow Moving Vehicles” that may be on the road ascending and within the North Cascades (from Mazama to Rockport) and to encourage use of slow vehicle pull-off areas provided by WSDOT.

Mid-Term: seek funding and implement

Action Plan

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

H I G H W A Y

GOALS AND BENEFITS

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Staff/volunteer time

Local interests and partners coordinating with the US Forest Service; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

NC

Support the US Forest Service in implementation of adopted plans and proposed projects in the region.

Ongoing

NC

Support the National Park Service in implementation of adopted plans and projects for the North Cascades National Park Complex.

Ongoing

For the Cascade Loop Association; costs will be very low, involving staff/ volunteer time

Local interests and partners coordinating with the National Park Service; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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NC

Evaluate opportunities to promote scenic views and interpret North Cascades natural and cultural history and resources with potential additional waysides/pull-offs in this region.

Near Term: Coordinate with land management agencies to discuss possibilities

Estimated Cost: Medium to High per location

Local interests and partners/NGOs, coordinating with the US Forest Service, National Park Service, and other land managers; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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Estimated Cost: Medium to High

WA Dept of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) manages the site; other partners may support project; (local WDFW manager is Belinda Rotton, 360-445-4441)

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Skagit Land Trust and Cascade Loop partners/interest; (Initial SLT contact is Lynne Jordan, 360-428-7878)

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12

13

14

Funding may be needed from public and private sources to support projects

Mid-Term to Long Term: Seek funding and implement NC

15

NC

16

Improve public amenities to Skagit Wildlife Area/Bald Eagle Natural Area parking and adding alternative green restroom and interpretive signs. This area provides access to the Skagit River for boating and fishing, and for bald eagle and other wildlife viewing opportunities.

Mid-Term

Work with Skagit Land Trust to create comprehensive plan for improving public access to appropriate upper Skagit properties like Hurn Field while protecting the land and its inhabitants.

Near Term

Staff/volunteer time for promotional work

Estimated Cost: Medium to High

1

2

3

4

5

C O R R I D O R

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

Action Plan

GOALS AND BENEFITS

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Estimated Cost: Medium for kiosk

City of Concrete and local partners/ interests working with the Cascade Loop Association and WSDOT

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NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

NC

Continue to promote the unique experiences of the town of Concrete along the Cascade Loop, including the loop tour of historic sites.

Install kiosk at the concrete silos; promote as “doorway” to the North Cascades. Explore potential for existing signing directing travelers off the highway to main street.

Near Term and Ongoing

NC

Install interpretive signage along Skagit River. Information should include the Old Ferry site; Skagit River watershed (second largest entering the Pacific Ocean after Columbia River); use of the river by American Indians for transportation; wildlife (Skagit is the only river with all five Pacific salmon species); eagle watching locations; world class steelhead fishing; and hydropower use.

Near Term to Mid-Term

Estimated Cost: Medium

Local interests working with environmental groups, service clubs, and others

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NC

Work with WSDOT to implement continuous bike lanes and/or separated shared use paths (paralleling the route) throughout this region of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway; the first step of this action could be a nonmotorized transportation analysis/study for the Cascade Loop to identify gaps in existing bicycling facilities (Note: SR 20 is part of a national cross-country bicycling route, refer to Bicycle Association of Washington.)

Near Term: Nonmotorized transportation analysis/study

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium for analysis/study

Cascade Loop Association, local communities and partners working with WSDOT

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17

18

19

Staff/volunteer time for promotional work

Mid-Term: Seek funding Long Term: implementation

High (for bike lane improvements)

1

2

3

4

5

Action Plan

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

C A S C A D E

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

L O O P

S C E N I C

H I G H W A Y

GOALS AND BENEFITS

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Estimated Cost: Medium to high using staff/volunteer support time

Local collaborative tourism interests/ Skagit Tourism Bureau; local chambers of commerce in the region; other local interests and partners; coordinating with WSDOT and state representatives; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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Estimated Cost: Very Low to evaluate and confirm locations;

Local partners and interests working with the Cascade Loop Association

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1

2

3

4

5

Region 8 | Skagit Valley and Fidalgo Island SVFI

1

Identify the need for and support development of a corridor management plan for the Skagit Scenic Byway (between existing North Cascades and Whidbey Scenic Isle Way byways).

Near Term: Identify partners and seek funding for plan Mid-Term: complete plan and obtain byway designation

SVFI

2

Evaluate and select locations to install Cascade Loop Scenic Highway interpretive/information kiosks in this region. Potential locations identified include:

Near Term

Anacortes Ferry Terminal, Tommy Thompson Trail (specific location to be determined), and

Medium to High for design and installation depending on number installed

Deception Pass tours parking lot on Fidalgo Island (if area can be expanded with improvements)

SVFI

3

Install additional signs to guide Cascade Loop travelers in this region; specific locations of interest include:

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Low

Cascade Loop Association and local partners

Upon turning onto Fidalgo Island on SR 20 (signing is needed

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indicating the route to the Cascade Loop); and

On Interstate 5, provide signs north and south in advance of the turn-off to SR 20 and north and south.

SVFI

Continue to promote and support agritourism and culinary opportunities related to this region: tulips, wineries/breweries, farm stands, u-pick fields, locally sourced food products, farmers markets.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners

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SVFI

Continue to promote LaConner as a side tour of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and partners

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4 5

C O R R I D O R

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

Action Plan

GOALS AND BENEFITS

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Near Term and Ongoing

Estimated Cost: For materials: Medium to High, supported by staff/ volunteer time

Local collaborative tourism interests (chambers) and staff from cities; Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland, Skagit Historical Society, Swinomish and Upper Skagit Tribes

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NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

SVFI

Create a plan for placing interpretive kiosk at Downtown Mount Vernon Riverwalk Revitalization Project Plaza; signs could provide historical, cultural and natural background on native peoples, European pioneers, Skagit River and its delta farmlands within the Agricultural Scenic Corridor.

SVFI

Develop interpretive displays and exhibits for Burlington-Skagit County Regional Byways Visitor Center featuring the region’s scenic byways: Cascade Loop/North Cascades, Chuckanut Drive, Whidbey Island and Mt Baker, plus Skagit County and its Agricultural Scenic Corridor.

Include Cascade Loop Scenic Highway branding and information.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium

Local collaborative tourism interests (chambers) and staff from cities; Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland, Skagit Historical Society, Swinomish and Upper Skagit Tribes

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SVFI

Develop a plan for Gateway to North Cascades public art for SedroWoolley SR20 traffic roundabouts; brand as part of Cascade Loop Scenic Highway.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low for coordination and strategizing

Sedro-Woolley Chamber of Commerce and City staff; National Park Service; WSDOT; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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6

7

8

Medium to High for implementation

1

2

3

4

5

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Action Plan

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

SVFI

Develop overall plan for improving visitor access and safety around popular natural, agricultural and wildlife sites such as Skagit River and Lakes, wildlife viewing areas, tulip fields, winter birding areas, etc.

Specific project ideas include the following.

9

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

H I G H W A Y

GOALS AND BENEFITS

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Mid-Term

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium supported by staff/ volunteer time

Local collaborative tourism interests, including local chambers and city representatives; Skagit Land Trust, Skagit Audubon Society, Skagit County officials; and other public, non-profit, and private partners; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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Identify needed improvements to winter birding in Skagit Wildlife Areas (access, amenities, parking, signage) before developing Skagit winter birding festival in conjunction with the Eagle Festival.

This effort would be led by chamber and Skagit Audubon Society members in collaboration with county officials. This land is under WA Dept of Fish & Wildlife management; the local manager is Belinda Rotton, (360) 445-4441.

Work with Skagit Land Trust to create comprehensive plan for improving public access to appropriate middle and lower Skagit properties such as the new Nichols Bar county park property while protecting the land and its inhabitants. This effort would be led by chamber and Skagit Land Trust staff. SLT Development Director is Lynne Jordan, 360-428-7878. Timeframe is unknown.

1

2

3

4

5

Coordinate with Skagit County on where potential improvements (shoulder widening/pull-offs, etc.) may be needed on county roads that are popular for winter bird watching (trumpeter swans, etc.).

Identify locations where road shoulders are available for pulling-off and bird watching; promote the best locations to visitors.

SVFI

Improve existing Anacortes SR 20 rest area and scenic overlook of Fidalgo Bay by adding interpretive kiosk or signage about its cultural, historical and ecological importance, and possible viewing deck. The site serves thousands of auto and bike travelers each year as a paved turnout with grass area and picnic benches, but also needs a low maintenance “green” restroom not requiring sewer hookup.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Medium to High

Anacortes chamber and city representatives; collaborative local tourism interests; WSDOT; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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SVFI

Create a plan for improving public access, amenities, and signage along Skagit portions of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail. including the Tommy Thompson Trail, which connects to downtown Anacortes and also will eventually connect to Guemes Channel Trail from downtown, through the Ship Harbor Interpretive Preserve, to the WSF Anacortes Terminal.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Medium to High

Local collaborative tourism interests, including Anacortes chamber and city staff; Pacific Northwest Trail Association; WSF and WSDOT; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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10

11

C O R R I D O R

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

Action Plan

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

GOALS AND BENEFITS

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

SVFI

Increase public awareness, use and appreciation for the Washington Department of Natural Resources’ Fidalgo Bay Aquatic Reserve; Develop Tommy Thompson Trail March’s Point Trailhead (on March’s Point Road/Christianson Road near SR 20 right before Oak Harbor turnoff) with interpretive signage, viewing area and possible nonmotorized boat launch.

Mid-Term

Estimated Cost: High

Local collaborative tourism interests working with the Department of Natural Resources; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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SVFI

Work with Anacortes City Parks to create an interpretive plan and install interpretive signs for Ship Harbor Interpretive Preserve helping increase wetlands education and appreciation along existing boardwalk and at proposed interpretive center. The boardwalk is designated as part of the Guemes Channel Trail connecting nonmotorized traffic from the WSF Anacortes Terminal to downtown Anacortes, Tommy Thompson Trail and beyond.

Mid-Term

Estimated Cost: Medium to High

Anacortes chamber and City staff coordinating with other local partners; WSDOT and WSF; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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SVFI

Work with Swinomish and Upper Skagit tribes to develop historical, cultural, and educational materials and to interpret Native American history at key locations; develop maps, audio/video, marketing materials, interpretive displays, etc.

Near Term and Ongoing

Estimated Cost: Medium

Local interests and partners working with representatives from tribes; Cascade Loop Association in support role

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 

SVFI

Work with WSDOT to implement continuous bike lanes and/or separated shared use paths (paralleling the route) throughout this region of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. The first step of this action could be a nonmotorized transportation analysis/study for the Cascade Loop to identify gaps in existing bicycling facilities. (Note: SR 20 is part of a national cross-country bicycling route, refer to Bicycle Association of Washington.)

Near Term: Nonmotorized transportation analysis/study

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium for analysis/study

Cascade Loop Association, local communities and partners working with WSDOT



  

12

13

14

15

Mid-Term: Seek funding Long Term: implementation

High (for bike lane improvements)

1

2

3

4

5

Action Plan

NO.

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

H I G H W A Y

GOALS AND BENEFITS 1

2

3

4

5

Region 9 | Whidbey Scenic Isle Way WSIW

Create a Whidbey Scenic Isle Way Facebook Page and integrate social media messaging; reinforce as part of Cascade Loop Scenic Highway.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low; supported by staff/volunteers

Whidbey and Camano Islands Tourism

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WSIW

Evaluate and select locations to install Cascade Loop Scenic Highway interpretive/information kiosks in this region. Potential locations identified include:

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Very Low to evaluate and confirm locations;

Whidbey and Camano Islands Tourism; other local partners and interests working with the Cascade Loop Association

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1

2

Visitor center that is currently vacant at the intersection near Deception Pass State Park,

Medium to High for design and installation depending on number installed

Classic Road (where phone booth is located), New bus terminal in Central Whidbey,

 

Greenbank Farm, Bayview Corner, Visitor kiosk at Ken’s Corner (managed by Freeland Chamber), and Clinton location near ferry terminal (TBD).

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and partners



 

Create a walking/bicycling/horse riding trail from the Clinton Ferry to Deception Pass; This goal is now part of Island County's Comprehensive Non-Motorized Transportation Plan. See: http://bit.ly/1623xyV.

Mid-Term to Long Term (by 2020)

Estimated Cost: High

Island County

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  

Put up the majority of the remaining Whidbey Scenic Isle Way signs. there are 17 signs in inventory and at least 10 more locations along the road can be identified and the signs placed, including putting them on all of the “nickel” highway signs that are already existing.

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Low

Island County and WSDOT



  

WSIW

Continue to promote and support agritourism and culinary opportunities related to this region, fruit stands, wineries, locally crafted foods and beverages, and other farm-to-table experiences.

WSIW

WSIW

3

4 5

C O R R I D O R

NO. WSIW

6

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION Integrate the Cascade Loop and Whidbey Scenic Isle Way into Island County Tourism website, marketing, maps and messaging.

This also means mentioning the Cascade Loop during press trips and coordinating media visits with others along the Cascade Loop.

Signing/wayshowing opportunities that could integrate Cascade Loop Scenic Highway brand include:

Action Plan

GOALS AND BENEFITS

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Near Term

Estimated Cost: Medium to High; supported by staff/ volunteers

Whidbey and Camano Islands Tourism

    



1

2

3

4

5

Signs/posters on the ferries and at ferry terminals, Integrated with large existing Whidbey Scenic Isle Way gateway signs visible coming onto the island at three locations (Clinton, Keystone, Deception Pass), and Island transit buses/bus stops—“You are traveling on the Whidbey Scenic Isle Way and Cascade Loop”.

  

WSIW

Work more aggressively with Island Transit to encourage people to park their car and take the bus. Develop messaging and incorporate more rewards and incentives for locals and visitors to take the bus.

Finding a way to initiate and support Sunday transit service would help with this action item.

Ongoing

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium

Island County, Chambers of Commerce and Whidbey and Camano Islands Tourism

WSIW

Support the Whidbey Scenic Isle Way in updating and implementing its corridor management plan.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Local interests and partners; Cascade Loop Association in support role

    

WSIW

Support the National Park Service in implementation of projects and programs at Ebey’s Landing National Historic Reserve, a key site and visitor destination in this region.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Local interests and partners working with the NPS; Cascade Loop Association in support role

    

WSIW

Continue to promote and enhance for visitors the unique experiences of this region related to visiting beaches, tide pools, and other special places on the islands.

Ongoing

Staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners



 

WSIW

Coordinate with Washington State Ferries to promote the ferry experience of this region (Clinton to Mukilteo), a unique aspect of the Cascade Loop experience. Promote and interpret scenic views and cultural and natural history of Puget Sound, the Olympics, and Cascades, visible from the ferry and ferry terminals.

Ongoing

Estimated Cost: Low supported by staff/volunteer time

Cascade Loop Association and local partners



  

7

8

9

10 11

Action Plan

NO. WSIW

12

ACTION ITEM DESCRIPTION Work with WSDOT to implement continuous bike lanes and/or separated shared use paths (paralleling the route) throughout this region of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. The first step of this action could be a nonmotorized transportation analysis/study for the Cascade Loop to identify gaps in existing bicycling facilities. (Note: SR 20 is part of a national cross-country bicycling route, refer to Bicycle Association of Washington.)

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

IMPLEMENTATION TIMEFRAME

RESOURCES AND ESTIMATED COSTS

LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERS

Near Term: Nonmotorized transportation analysis/study

Estimated Cost: Low to Medium for analysis/study

Cascade Loop Association, local communities and partners working with WSDOT

Mid-Term: Seek funding Long Term: implementation

High (for bike lane improvements)

H I G H W A Y

GOALS AND BENEFITS 1



2

3

4

5

  

Cascade Loop Organization and Engagement

7

MAZAMA

Tawlks-Foster Suspension Bridge over the Methow River

Cascade Loop Organization and Engagement Strategies Background on the Cascade Loop Association As this corridor management plan for the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway moves forward into implementation, it will be important for the Cascade Loop Association to bring continued focus on the planâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s action items and to engage byway communities, partners, stakeholders, and the public-at-large in these projects.

Local organizational capacity is often critical to the success of byways. In the case of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, the local and regional organizational framework is very strong, consisting of the Cascade Loop Association as the organizing entity of a broad spectrum of partners and stakeholders. The Cascade Loop Association is made up of representatives from federal, state, and local land management agencies and jurisdictions, non-government and non-profit organizations, special interests groups, business and tourism interests, and others. These partners are committed to the long term success of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway.

The Cascade Loop Association is registered in Washington as a 501 (c) (6) non-profit organization and is dedicated to enhancing, protecting, and promoting the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. The Association, which was established in 1978 and is based in Wenatchee, has maintained an active membership throughout its life. Supported by an executive director, a board of directors, and an average of 160 members annually, the Cascade Loop Association is a small organization that functions much like a larger organization. The Cascade Loop successfully manages tourism inquiries; maintains a website with extensive information about the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway; publishes an annual guidebook with 104,000 printed copies distributed widely throughout the Pacific Northwest and mailed all over the world upon request; and coordinates with a broad spectrum of interests on byway management, community engagement, and marketing and promotional efforts on an ongoing basis.

Cascade Loop Organization and Engagement Strategies

Organizational Focus Areas and Goals Recognizing the importance of reaching a broad audience, the Cascade Loop Association stays focused on the following key areas as part of its management strategy: building and strengthening relationships and partnerships with Cascade Loop communities, tourism organizations, agencies, and others; conveying information about the experience of the Cascade Loop through Internet and social media technologies; marketing and promotions to a wide variety of travel magazines and websites; participating in travel shows and conferences; attracting and accommodating group tours (bus, car, motorcycle clubs); and publishing the annual travel guidebook. The top five goals of the organization in 2013 were to: Encourage more travelers to explore the Cascade Loop; Improve the travel experience on the Cascade Loop; Increase and diversify the funding mix to support Cascade Loop initiatives and activities; Increase collaboration with Cascade Loop communities; and Increase social media exposure.

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

H I G H W A Y

The Importance of Partnerships Given the economic challenges of the last several years, agencies and organizations throughout the US and regionally have been working hard to continue to meet their responsibilities within the constraints of diminished resources and budgets. Partnerships have been important during these challenging times to leverage resources and organizational support for various initiatives.

The Cascade Loop Association has been extremely successful in establishing partnerships and working with a diversity of other organizations and agencies. For example, the Association partnered with Northwest Heritage Resources in 2010, and working with grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and Washington State Tourism, developed an audio tour for the southern portion of the Cascade Loop focused on cultural communities—the people who make up the many different occupational and ethnic communities along the byway. The tour highlights traditional music, folk poetry, and the stories of people who live and work in the region. This is just one example of many related to partnerships that the Cascade Loop Association forges on an ongoing basis. This commitment to partnerships will continue to build capacity within the organization and SNOHOMISH National Historic District help to support implementation of this corridor management plan.

C O R R I D O R

PESHASTIN

M A N A G E M E N T

The Wenatchee River flows past the Peshastin Pinnacles

P L A N

Cascade Loop Organization and Engagement Strategies

Cascade Loop Organization and Engagement Strategies

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

H I G H W A Y

Ongoing Organizational Strategies and Activities As stated in the Action Plan presented in Chapter 6 of this corridor management plan, the Cascade Loop Association will provide ongoing management and coordination related to the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway and will pursue a number of key actions and strategies: Funding an ongoing full-time staff position, along with ongoing support through contracts and volunteers Appointing a task force to focus on implementation of the corridor management plan (with the action plan as the group’s work plan)—it is anticipated that one lead and one alternate from each region will meet quarterly to support plan implementation (with task force appointments occurring every two years) Pursuing All-American Road designation through the National Scenic Byways Program Researching and pursuing funding and grant opportunities for projects along the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, such as:

RIVERFRONT PARK

Along the Wenatchee River in Wenatchee

Development of a Wayshowing/ Signing Master Plan Expanding and updating the Cascade

Loop brand to cover signing and collateral materials that encompass the identity of the nine regions Development of an Interpretive Master Plan Design and installation of a system of wayshowing elements (signs and kiosks) Utilizing technology to develop communications and collateral materials that express the updated branding, mapping, and graphic design for the Cascade Loop (website, mobile app, audio listening posts, online souvenir shopping cart, etc.)

Supporting opportunities for additional electric vehicle charging stations throughout the Loop Working with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to develop continue bike lanes and trail segments around the Cascade Loop and pursuing tie-ins with planned cross-country bicycling routes Developing signature experiences and selfguided tours to attract visitors in different market segments (retirees, outdoor recreation enthusiasts, families with children, etc.)

C O R R I D O R

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

Cascade Loop Organization and Engagement Strategies

Creating a network of local experts representing each region to focus on history and culture in an effort to educate travelers about each region’s unique story; working with partners on sites that need protection; and partnering with local museums, historians, land trusts, and chambers of commerce Continuing to update and publish the guidebook each year and highlighting side tour and side loop experiences (such as the Plain-Lake Wenatchee Loop) Continuing to galvanize partnerships around the entire Cascade Loop through coordinated planning and activities Continue to publish an e-newsletter distributed to the full Cascade Loop membership and stakeholders that provides an update on projects, announces upcoming meetings, recruits volunteers for special activities, and provides other information.

Ongoing Communications and Coordination across the Cascade Loop The Cascade Loop covers a broad geographic area, so ongoing communications and coordination will be critical to implementing this corridor management plan. The Cascade Loop Association will support this need by: Updating and maintaining the byway contact list Facilitating regular communications to its membership and stakeholders Coordinating regular meetings of the byway task force focused on plan implementation and keeping records of progress Preparing grant applications and information for the state and national scenic byway programs Assisting with fund-raising and special events and pursuing funding opportunities Coordinating with a wide variety of partners and agencies on an ongoing basis Reviewing the status of corridor management plan implementation and updating the plan on a periodic basis, as needed

HISTORIC HOLDEN VILLAGE

A quaint retreat in the Lake Chelan Valley

Cascade Loop Organization and Engagement Strategies

Ideas for Bywaysâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Specific Events An abundance of festivals and special events occur around the Cascade Loop each month, focused on seasonal traditions, entertainment, recreation, and a variety of arts, culture, culinary, and agricultural experiences.

These events are important to the experience of the Cascade Loop and the Cascade Loop Association will continue to support these activities on an ongoing basis. In addition, there may be opportunities to work with byway partners to host more byway-centric events as time goes on, perhaps integrating these with the annual meeting of the Cascade Loop Association.

These should be activities that reinforce the byway vision, mission, values, and goals, such as stewardship programs and workshops; green tourism expert symposiums; special group tour and bicycling events and programs; byway clean-up days, and volunteer trail-building, revegetation, and ecosystem restoration projects. Inspirational and knowledgeable speakers can help rejuvenate byway members and reinforce the ongoing importance of working toward the bywayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission.

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

H I G H W A Y

Expanding and Strengthening the Byway Organization The Cascade Loop Association already has an excellent foundation of community and agency support. The depth of experience, resources, and cooperative services provided by representatives from the local, state, and federal agencies and organizations involved in developing this corridor management plan has set the byway on a positive course toward implementation. Experts from a variety of agencies and organizations have given their time and knowledge to develop this plan and are strong partners for the byway. These representatives should continue to be engaged in the implementation of the plan.

SEDRO-WOOLLEY

Renaissance Faire is a popular event

As the Cascade Loop Association grows and evolves over time, a new primary objective of the organization will be to guide the work of implementing enhancements, interpretation, resource protection, and other activities along the byway.

As such, a continual effort to keep moving forward with implementation of byway projects and activities will be needed. This effort will need to be supported by not only the team originally involved in plan development, but also new volunteers and representatives from other agencies and organizations across all regions of the Cascade Loop.

C O R R I D O R

SLATE PEAK

M A N A G E M E N T

Hikers make a stop to appreciate the overlook interpretation

P L A N

Cascade Loop Organization and Engagement Strategies

Cascade Loop Organization and Engagement Strategies

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

H I G H W A Y

Broadening Interest—Bringing in More Stakeholders and Partners to Support Specific Needs of the Organization In addition to the agencies and organizations that have guided development of this plan, there are many other existing and potential partners who can help with ongoing byway management and implementation. A variety of special interest groups may be able to provide support and resources for special projects and activities of the Cascade Loop. Their skills and expertise can be matched to the needs of the organization. As the baby boom generation reaches retirement age, more people with in-depth knowledge and experience are becoming available as a volunteer base. In addition, the Cascade loop Association may be able to draw in more corporate and agency partners to support specific initiatives. Leveraging these resources can help stretch the organizational capacity of the Cascade Loop Association. Those engaged may include people who bring certain skills and interests aligned with byway management and implementation. For example, there may be a need for skills in web design to update the website, as well as in stewardship and education, writing promotional articles, supporting distribution of an annual e-newsletter, organizing group tours and activities, and other areas of expertise.

In order to learn more about the stakeholders along the byway and their particular interests and skills, it will be important to continue to involve a broad spectrum of interests in ongoing byway management and implementation activities. It will also be important to consider who hasn’t been involved to date, and to engage them in future activities. There may be some valuable and important partners out there ready and waiting to help, such as:

Corporate interests who have business enterprises along the Cascade Loop Large scale utility and energy companies, such as Seattle City Light who may be able to help promote green-travel through installation of EV charging stations Public and private land owners and managers along the byway (can identify names from tax records) including agencies, farmers, and others who may be interested in promoting certain stewardship messages Additional business, tourism, and recreation interest groups (chambers of commerce) Local governments and community associations dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in each region Representatives from Native American tribes, including those who may not have been represented to date Organizations dedicated to specific intrinsic qualities of the corridor (such as historical societies, local museums, outdoor recreational organizations, local or regional festival organizers, garden clubs, scouting groups, etc.)

LAKE SERENE TRAIL

Near Index, WA

C O R R I D O R

M A N A G E M E N T

These stakeholders can play an important role in the future of the Cascade Loop Association and become valuable, integral partners in the byway’s future. They can be involved by being invited to join the Cascade Loop Association and/or to support specific projects. Working together with diverse interests to achieve commonly desired goals can be inspirational and motivational.

Specific task forces and/or subcommittees can be formed over time to support certain activities of the byway as directed under the “umbrella” organization of the Cascade Loop Association and guided by the executive director. These groups could potentially focus on tasks such as: Communications/Media/Public Relations (could be responsible for ongoing newsletters, meeting invitations, flyers, website development, press releases, etc.)

P L A N

Cascade Loop Organization and Engagement Strategies

Grant Writing/Fundraising Project Implementation (with individual subcommittees for each project/activity) Governmental/Political Liaisons Business, Agricultural, Recreation and Tourism Liaison(s)—This group/these groups would meet regularly with important industry representatives— including local business groups, agricultural interests, recreation and tourism representatives, and other important stakeholders.

Membership Development Community and Stakeholder Involvement Historic and Cultural Resource Preservation Scenic and Natural Resource Preservation Marketing and Promotions

Engaging Byway Volunteers The first step is asking for help. Research shows that being asked to volunteer makes a substantial difference in peoples’ willingness to give their time. If asked, 63 percent will volunteer, compared to 25 percent who volunteer without being asked.

When engaging volunteers in byway projects and activities, it is important to clearly define expectations and reach mutual agreement on these. Be prepared to encourage the prospective volunteers and answer their questions. Let them know how much their help is appreciated and what the end results will be from their dedicated efforts.

Special Events/Annual Event

Before making a commitment, volunteers may want to know:

Maintaining/Updating the Contact List/ Membership Database

What are the goals and desired outcomes of the assignment?

How long they will need to be involved and how many hours of their time may be needed?

Is the need for a one-time assignment or an ongoing assignment?

What skills are needed to support the assignment?

What are the benefits of their involvement?

BEAVER POND TRAIL Located in the Methow Valley

Cascade Loop Organization and Engagement Strategies

C A S C A D E

L O O P

S C E N I C

H I G H W A Y

Ongoing Public, Community, and Stakeholder Engagement and Outreach Ongoing public participation and community involvement will be essential to the success of future byway planning, management, and implementation. The Cascade Loop Association will continue to represent the views of local communities and interests. However, at key decision-making points and important milestones in the future, there also will be a need for broader community input and involvement. Citizens and special interest groups throughout the byway communities can provide valuable information and input. They are the local experts who can describe in detail the existing conditions, problems, and potential solutions that are best suited to their specific situations.

Tools and Activities for Successful Ongoing Public and Stakeholder Involvement There are several effective tools and activities that can be used to engage and inform the public and key byway stakeholders. The table on pages 7-12 and 7-13 lists some of the most effective tools and activities that byway organizations use for ongoing communication and engagement. The recommendations about how and when to use these public and stakeholder involvement tools are guidelines only. The ongoing program for Cascade Loop Scenic Highway should be tailored to fit the preferences and needs of the byway partners and communities. Depending on activities taking place along the byway at various times, it may be necessary to adjust meeting schedules and/or press release publishing dates. If there is a period of heavy activity, it may be a good idea to hold meetings more frequently or to look for other ways to engage the interest of the communities. Keep in mind that summer vacation and holiday schedules may impact meeting attendance and participation levels.

Advantages of Public Workshops and Charrettes To find common ground and move forward with solutions, it may be necessary to help certain community groups see the points of view of other community groups or stakeholders. One of the best methods to accomplish this is bringing all interested groups together for workshops and charrettes to discuss issues and work together on resolutions. Charrettes may focus on planning or design for specific projects. Workshops can be conducted to tackle key issues or define priorities. In a â&#x20AC;&#x153;forum settingâ&#x20AC;? people are able to better understand the concerns and perspectives of others. It is still important to understand and address the specific needs of each person or group, and it may be necessary to hold separate meetings with individuals and special interest groups, but the workshop setting can be very effective for broad and diverse community participation.

Reaching Out to Byway Communities and the Public-at-Large With future project implementation, it may be necessary to hold multiple public meetings along the byway given that people live in different communities. Workshop announcements should be placed in local and regional newspapers and on multiple websites throughout the Cascade Loop regions.

Workshops should be held at convenient and accessible locations within the communities and at convenient times. Inviting the general public to participate through workshops will help ensure that community members and stakeholders are not left out of the process.

Keep in mind that people lead busy lives, and it may be difficult for some to attend public meetings and workshops because family responsibilities and personal schedules take priority. Sometimes, public meetings and workshops are not well attended if the issues being discussed are not controversial.

For these reasons, it may be necessary to reach out to the public in other ways besides meetings. Websites, social media, and email lists are a good way to keep people informed

C O R R I D O R

M A N A G E M E N T

and to encourage dialogue through email correspondence.

Another successful way to ensure participation is to attend meetings that are already set-up in the communities, such as local chambers of commerce, tourism groups, service and environmental organizations, public agency boards and committees, etc. This method can be successful because information can be obtained through meetings that are already attended by a group of devoted volunteers or community representatives, rather than adding another meeting to their busy schedules.

Presentations to elected officials and commissions can also provide opportunities

P L A N

Cascade Loop Organization and Engagement Strategies

for input and involvement in byway activities, as well as for building awareness and gathering support for needed improvements.

Work sessions with senior citizens and school groups provide additional opportunities for community outreach and obtaining insightful input. Byway projects could be incorporated into school projects for students or preservation projects could be a part of high school curriculum or after school activities.

Also keep in mind that there may be a variety of resources in the byway communities including volunteers, in-kind support, gifts of materials, printing, and other contributions, etc. that can be tapped into as part of a strong program of public and stakeholder involvement and outreach.

Suggestions from Other Byways Following are some recommendations and suggestions from other scenic byway organizations that have been established for several years in Washington state.

Work hard to educate and involve landowners, businesses and the general public along the byway.

Keep trying to draw new volunteers beyond the initial partners.

Consider forming alliances with other byways and similar interest groups in your region.

Communication is key—keep it simple!

Don’t advertise a laundry list of what you can see on the byway. Convey the value of what people will experience there instead.

Do it right and be thorough—find something visible and positive to do as soon as possible to bring a sense of identity and reward to your byway partners.

Learn all you can about the National Scenic Byway Program (America’s Byways®)— its benefits and your obligations and responsibilities.

Make sure you have a committed board of directors who are willing to put in time and energy.

WHIDBEY SCENIC ISLE WAY Historic Coupeville Ferry Terminal

Cascade Loop Organization and Engagement Strategies

C A S C A D E

L O O P

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H I G H W A Y

Recommended Public and Stakeholder Involvement Tools and Activities to Support Ongoing Byway Management and Implementation SUGGESTED TIME INTERVAL

TOOL/ACTIVITY

PURPOSE/MOST OFTEN USED FOR

Newsletters (Electronic or Printed & Mailed)

To provide byway updates and information on a regular basis to byway interests (general membership) as well as key partners and stakeholders. For the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, an electronic newsletter/update is already distributed successfully.

Monthly or quarterly

Newspaper and Magazine Articles and Announcements

Press releases and articles are developed by byway groups to promote and market places, activities and events, as well as to announce recent accomplishments, publicize important meetings, and engage diverse interests. For the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, the Cascade Loop Association already acts as a media liaison and provides article suggestions and press releases related to byway activities.

Seasonally; as events and activities change and the need is warranted

News/Radio/Closed Caption and Cable TV Announcements

Can be used to summarize events, and/or to promote themes of the byway. Can be inexpensively made and posted to local online radio stations or internet sites such as Youtube.com, Facebook.com, twitter.com, or other social media sites.

As special events and activities warrant the need

Byway Core Team/ Board of Directors Meetings

Meetings held on a regular basis to conduct the business of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, direct management and implementation efforts, appoint committees, check in on project progress and provide updates from partners.

Development of specific agendas and recording of notes are important to support these meetings. Some byway groups may choose to follow Robertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rules of Order, but others keep communications informal.

Quarterly, bi-monthly, or monthly if a specific planning effort or largerscale project is underway

Overall Byway Membership Meetings/Annual Event

Meetings to inform and involve the entire byway membership, which can often take the form of an annual event or symposium. Membership may be invited to vote on important decisions or actions. These can also be correlated with fundraising activities, special events, educational programs, byway tours, etc. and often provide opportunities to solicit support and gain input. Again, development of specific agendas and itineraries is important, as well as documentation of input and comments received.

Annually or semi-annually

Meetings with Special Interest Groups/Focus Groups/Tribes/ Local Elected Officials and Others

Focus group meetings are targeted to the interests of those participating. Most often these are scheduled in association with a specific action or project that the byway is implementing. The purpose can vary, but often they focus on presenting information, gaining input and comments, and discussing and resolving particular concerns of focus groups or special interests. Thorough notes and recording of outcomes and assignments for follow up action items are important for these meetings.

As needed to support projects and activities

Open Houses

Usually informal meetings where the general public is invited to come and view displays and talk with byway and project representatives during a specific timeframe. Comments are recorded (often on flip charts for participants to see), and the input is considered as the project evolves.

As needed to support projects and activities

C O R R I D O R

M A N A G E M E N T

P L A N

Cascade Loop Organization and Engagement Strategies

Recommended Public and Stakeholder Involvement Tools and Activities to Support Ongoing Byway Management and Implementation, Continued SUGGESTED TIME INTERVAL

TOOL/ACTIVITY

PURPOSE/MOST OFTEN USED FOR

Workshops and Charrettes

Interactive meetings designed to fully engage participants in activities and exercises toward meaningful outcomes.

These meetings can use a variety of tools and methods to gain input and engage communities and participants in project planning and design.

As needed to support projects and activities

Special Advisory Committees or Steering Committees

Committees or subcommittees formed for a specific purpose, such as to advise on development of policy or to steer the design direction on a project. These committees can be focused on technical considerations with agency staff or expert participation. They can be citizen-based groups with representatives from byway communities and diverse interests.

As needed to support projects and activities

Special Displays/ Traveling Displays

Static displays sometimes designed for portability to travel around byway communities and destinations. These can include byway information, as well as interpretive exhibits. A good way to get the word out and illustrate ideas and options being considered to a broader spectrum of the public. Can travel to libraries, community centers, visitor centers, etc. These displays may also be prepared for special events, such as fairs and festivals.

At key points in a planning or design process/at special events

Byway FAM Tours

Specially arranged tours of the byway to introduce relevant business owners, local officials, even local youth to the intrinsic elements of the byway. Expand the numbers of people that know about the byway as well as introducing it to the key stakeholders that will bring new market segments to enjoy it.

As needed to support projects and activities

Ceremonies, Celebrations, and Special Events

Special events can build community support and pride for the byway and provide opportunities to celebrate successes and take a break before moving on to the next milestone. The Cascade Loop Association promotes special events and festivals held in every region of the byway.

Celebrate as often as possible!

Websites

The Internet is now the place to learn all about byways, and it is common for byways to have their own specific websites (which may be sponsored by a partnering agency or funded through a byway specific grant). They provide a dynamic forum for posting byway updates, event and meeting announcements, providing contact information, inviting emails through comments or online questionnaires, and providing extensive information about the byway.

Ongoing maintenance and upkeep is important after initial development

Talking to People

Talking to people in person and word-of-mouth is one of the most effective ways to let people know about the byway and bring them into the fold of byway activities. Talk to people on the phone or meet them for coffee or lunch. Share your vision and enthusiasm about the opportunities and possibilities for the byway. Let them know that their support is needed and they can make a difference in helping to preserve natural and cultural heritage around the Cascade Loop by participating. These conversations also provide opportunities to reassure people that an important part of the vision for the byway focuses on enhancing the local way of life and respecting private property ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; interests.

Often, as much as possible, all the time

Next Steps: Implementing this Plan

8

STEHEKIN

Docks on Lake Chelan

Next Steps: Implementing this Plan

Implementing this Corridor Management Plan Completing this corridor management plan is only the beginning. Now it is time to move forward with implementing the proposed actions and projects identified in Chapter 6.

For the major actions and projects that the Cascade Loop Association will lead, it is recommended that three of these

LA CONNER

Charming waterfront town

are chosen for focus during the next year. For example, pursuing All-American Road designation through the National Scenic Byways Program for the entire Cascade Loop is a high priority and should be a near-term focus for the byway organization. (See page 8-4 of this chapter as well as Chapter 1 for more information.) Other high priorities include seeking funding for the proposed wayfinding/ wayshowing and signing program and continuing to work on ongoing promotional and marketing actions that the Cascade Loop Association sponsors each year. As the overall entity responsible for ongoing byway management and coordination the Cascade Loop Association will be tracking progress on implementation in each region, and updating the action plan in Chapter 6 as needed in the coming years.

The Cascade Loop Association will be in a supporting role for many of the actions and projects listed in Chapter 6. These activities will be led by local organizations and stakeholders within each region of the byway. Ongoing support from the Cascade Loop Association could include preparing letters of support and other information for locally-led grant

Next Steps: Implementing this Plan

C A S C A D E

applications, facilitating communications and meetings across Cascade Loop regions to bring project sponsors and partners together, identifying potential funding opportunities for locally-led projects, and other activities.

As the byway organization moves on to the important stage of implementation, it is important to know that there are a lot of helpful resources out there to guide ongoing efforts. You are not alone! The Cascade Loop Association is fortunate to have many experienced agencies and organizations as partners to help achieve the mission, vision, goals, and actions identified in this plan. These entities have access to resources and funding for various projects and actions such as specific grants. For example, federal land management agencies such as the National Park Service and US Forest Service are eligible for specific transportation alternatives funding through federal programs. State agencies such as the Washington State Department of Transportation and Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission also have access to funding and resources. Local cities can also provide support for projects, from helping to reach out to legislative representatives and providing letters of support for grant applications, to becoming partners on various improvement projects. Non-profit and non-governmental organizations also can be great partners. They have access to another pool of grants and funding sources for various projects.

While all funding and resources are competitive and limited, working with agencies and organizations along the byway on an ongoing basis will be important for successful implementation of the plan. The more coordination, communication, and partnerships that are forged, the more things will get done. Typically when multiple partners come together to pursue specific projects, these projects become more competitive and eligible for grants and funding sources. Making byway partners (agencies and organizations) aware of the priorities for the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway will help build a broader level of support and identifying potential funding opportunities. Refer to the Appendix for a list of agencies and organizations that can help support implementation efforts.

WHIDBEY SCENIC ISLE WAY

Bicyclists take on SR 20 through Coupeville

In addition to the resources along the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, there are federal resources focused on helping scenic byways throughout the US in ongoing management, coordination, and implementation efforts. These resources include:

L O O P

S C E N I C

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AMERICA’S BYWAYS®—This is the Federal Highway Administration program and website that identifies and markets the nation’s scenic byways and provides access to various information and resources.

America’s Byways® is the umbrella term used for designated national scenic byways (including All-American Roads). The National Scenic Byways Program is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. The program was originally established as a grass-roots collaborative effort established to help recognize, preserve and enhance selected roads throughout the United States. This is also the ongoing program that will continue to officially review applications for and designate National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads, which are recognized by the US Secretary of Transportation based on having one or more archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic qualities. In 2012, the federal program was changed by the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21) transportation legislation, and certain aspects were diminished. For example, the America’s Byways® Resource Center in Duluth, Minnesota was closed and the byways.org website was removed, which previously contained extensive resources for scenic byways. However, it is important to note that the federal program is still active and still expects to consider national nominations in the future. Other resources listed below have helped to take on some

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of the responsibilities in guiding ongoing byways across the country that the Byways Resource Center previously covered. For more information on the Federal Highway Administration program, visit: http://www. fhwa.dot.gov/byways/ and http://www.fhwa. dot.gov/hep/scenic_byways/.

NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY FOUNDATION— This 501(c)(3) non-profit organization was formed in 2003. The Foundation’s vision is that byways will be recognized and valued worldwide for their distinctive experiences, stories and treasured places, and its mission is to provide leadership to empower, strengthen and sustain byways. The foundation has helped to assume many of the responsibilities of the former Byways Resource Center in supporting and disseminating information to scenic byways across the US. Much of the information formerly available on the Byways Resource Center website is now accessible through the Foundation’s website under “Byways 101.” For more information, visit: http://www.nsbfoundation.com/ and http://www.byways101.org/.

SCENIC AMERICA—The only national 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated solely to preserving and enhancing the visual character of America’s communities and countryside. Through national advocacy efforts, technical assistance services, local and national projects, and the support of state affiliates, Scenic America works to accomplish this mission. For more information, visit: www.scenic.org

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WASHINGTON STATE SCENIC AND RECREATIONAL HIGHWAYS—Washington State was one of the first states in the country to establish a system of scenic highways. Scenic highways pass through the varied terrain of Washington reflecting the depth of its scenic, cultural and historic landscapes. The State Scenic and Recreational Highways program supports the goals of the Get Out West! initiative to ensure that Washington State’s scenic and recreational resources are available and accessible for generations to come.

WSDOT is working to identify and initiate

WALLACE FALLS STATE PARK

Visitors can enjoy an easy hike to view the falls

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effective strategies, partnerships, and policies to protect and enhance scenic and recreational resources along our scenic byways. These resources are key to the health of our local economies as well as our citizens by supporting tourism and recreational opportunities. For more information, visit: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/LocalPrograms/ScenicByways/ AMERICA’S SCENIC BYWAYS—An open source initiative to restore to the public the content of the closed byways.org website, established to promote the collection of over 150 byways designated by the US Secretary of Transportation, as well as providing comprehensive information about over 850 scenic roads in the US with photos, maps, sample trips, and attractions. Visit: http://scenicbyways.info/

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Pursuing National Scenic Byway Designation The Cascade Loop Association intends to develop a nomination package and pursue designation as an All-American Road with the Federal Highway Administration as a high priority outcome of completing this corridor management plan. This planning process has confirmed that the byway is highly eligible for national designation as a destination unto itself that possesses all six intrinsic qualities. There is a strong level of community and agency support for pursuing national designation with the understanding that this plan will help manage tourism and protect the unique resources of the byway. National designation brings benefits such as:

Identification and marketing as part of the FHWA National Scenic Byways Program (America’s Byways®) and WSDOT Scenic and Recreational Highways Program National designation will help to highlight the importance of the byway in grants and funding opportunities Increased tourism and associated economic benefits associated with national recognition Increased recognition, public awareness, and opportunities to enhance and preserve the unique natural and cultural resources of the byway likely would occur through national designation.

The Cascade Loop Scenic Highway could become one of the first “loop” experiences in the nation that conveys the full experience of the Pacific Northwest. It could also set precedence for promoting green, sustainable travel with electric vehicle charging stations (when implemented around the full route).

PEARRYGIN LAKE

Visitors relax at this quiet oasis in Mazama

Although becoming an All-American Road (as part of the National Scenic Byways Program) is an important priority for the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, it is currently not known

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when the next call for nominations will be made by the US Secretary of Transportation.

The Cascade Loop Association should stay in contact with the Federal Highway Administration and continue to monitor the process for new designations. In the meantime, continuing to engage partners and agencies will be important. Pursuing national scenic byway designation will involve a similar effort to that of developing the corridor management plan in engaging support from organizations, businesses, tourism interests, local, state and federal agencies, and other partners and stakeholders.

As a precursor to seeking national designation at the next call for nominations, representatives from the Cascade Loop Association should present highlights of the corridor management plan and the intent to seek national designation to their respective agencies and organizations and obtain their formal support. Eventually, letters and endorsements of support for national designation application will need to be gathered and included in the nomination package. Engaging congressional representatives will be an extremely important part of the process as well.

Before developing the nomination package, the first step in the process will involve working with the Washington State Scenic and Recreational Highways Program and the State Legislature.

There likely will be a need to formally designate some highway segments of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway not currently designated as being part of the state Scenic and Recreational Highways Program. This will require state legislative action, amending Chapter 47.39 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), the Scenic and Recreational Highway Act of 1967. For access to this chapter and the legislation, go to: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=47.39&full=true. The San Juan Islands Scenic Byway also had to go through this step to be added to the state system (and was one of the most recently added byways to the legislation).

In review of the state Scenic and Recreational Highways Program map (see next page), the following segments of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway are currently not designated as part of the state system: State Route 525, from the Mukilteo Ferry Terminal to Nelsons Corner and the junction with State Route 526 in the vicinity of the Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour State Route 526, from the junction with 525 to Interstate 5 Interstate 5, from the junction of State Route 526, north to US Highway 2 US Highway 2 from the junction with Interstate 5 to Monroe (from Monroe east, US Highway 2 is designated as the Stevens Pass Greenway, which is currently a state-designated byway, as well as a National Scenic Byway

CONCRETE

A town with heritage in the cement industry

This segment connects Regions 9 and 1 of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway through the urban and suburban context of Mukilteo and outlying areas of Everett. This segment should be eligible for state and national designation, not only because it is a gateway and critical link in completing the Cascade Loop experience, but also because there are significant scenic, historic, cultural, natural, and recreational intrinsic qualities and resources along the corridor, including but limited to: Stunning views of Puget Sound with the Olympic and Cascade Mountains in the background; 1855 Treaty signed at Point Elliott (vicinity of Mukilteo) and Coast Salish heritage; Culturally important history of the Japanese Gulch area of Mukilteo; Nationally significant history of aviation with several museums and visitor centers including the Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour program; Ebey Island natural area; Snohomish National Historic District; and Railroad and mining history.

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So the first step in the process will be to coordinate with the state Scenic and Recreational Highways Program representatives to determine the process for adding this segment to the state system. Byway representatives should meet with local state legislators as part of this process to explain the need to add this link and gain their support in amending the legislation.

Once the step of adding the missing link to the state system is complete, the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway will be ready to move forward with nomination to the national program for All-American Road status – the highest designation of National Scenic Byways. The Cascade Loop Scenic Highway is eligible for this level of designation because the byway: Possesses extensive nationally-significant intrinsic qualities and resources in all categories recognized by the Federal Highway Administration Program Links together multiple routes that are already federally and state designated (including Stevens Pass Greenway and the North Cascades Scenic Highway) Provides the rare experience of a full loop, traversing historic and scenic routes of the Pacific Northwest, as a memorable destination byway with the proven ability to draw national and international interest As discussed in Chapter 1 of this plan, nominations for national designation may originate from any local or private group, government organization, or individual. This includes Native American tribal governments. Nominations to the National Scenic Byways Program of byways on public lands may originate from the US Forest Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, or the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Nominations must be submitted to the Federal Highway Administration by either a state, Native American tribe, or federal lands management agency, and all of these entities are

SNOHOMISH RIVER VALLEY

Bicyclists take in the expansive views of Cascade Loop’s first segment

partners in the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway, a joint-application that shows the support of all these entities should be considered.

According to the Federal Highway Administration, the nomination package must demonstrate the following: The highway/road can safely accommodate two-wheel-drive automobiles with standard clearances and accommodate wherever feasible, bicycle and pedestrian travel. It should also accommodate conventional tour buses. Before it is nominated, user facilities should be available for travelers. Another important criterion is continuity with minimal

intrusions on the visitor’s experience. Because a portion of the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway is closed during winter, it will be important for the application package to demonstrate that the intrinsic qualities of the scenic byway are still accessible year round on either side of the closure to address the “continuity” criterion. Because the North Cascades Scenic Highway is already a federal byway (through US Forest Service designation), the winter closure should not impede eligibility for national scenic byway designation.

The highway/road must be nominated by the State Scenic Byways Agency (SSBA) and the application submitted to the Federal

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Washington State Scenic and Recreational Highways Map, From the State Scenic Recreational Highways Plan, 2010 Figure 1. Washington State’s Scenic andand Recreational Highways B R I T I S H

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V U 542

Whatcom

V U 9

V U

V U

Okanogan

20

Pend Oreille

Ferry

20

V U 20

San Juan

Stevens

Island

V U 112

£ ¤

Skagit

§ ¦ ¨ 5

Clallam

Snohomish Chelan

101

V U

Jefferson

99

V U 155

Douglas

2

£ ¤ 2

Kitsap

Lincoln

Grays Harbor

231

£ ¤

Mason

King

Grant

§ ¦ ¨ 90

§ ¦ ¨ 90

Kittitas

£ ¤ 12

Thurston

Pierce

§ ¦ ¨

Spokane

V U

97

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£ ¤

V U

V U

Whitman

262

410

£ ¤ 195

Adams

5

Pacific

V U

Lewis

6

£ ¤

Yakima

12

V U 261

Franklin

Wahkiakum

£ ¤ 97

Cowlitz

:

Benton

V U

Skamania

503

Clark

V U 141

Walla Walla

Garfield

£ ¤ 12

Columbia

Asotin

V U 129

Klickitat

V U 14

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15

30

60 Miles

Tribal Lands*

Scenic and Recreational Highways (Per RCW 47.39 and 47.42)

City Limits

Indian Tribe Byways (Not in state law)

Scenic and Recreational Highways Indian Tribe Byways Source: Revised Code of Washington 47.39 and 47.42

* Tribal lands data source: Census 2000, Federally Recognized American Indian Reservations and Trust Lands.

Note: US Highway/State Route 97-A (Alternate), from the junction with US Highway 2 at Monitor, north through Chelan, to US Highway/State Route 97 is designated per RCW 47.39, but the state map above, produced in 2010, inadvertently does not show a portion of this link, and should be updated to show it.

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Highway Administration (FHWA). In order for a road or highway to become designated as a national scenic byway, it must first be designated as a state scenic byway.

Nominations may originate from any local government or private group, but the two step process includes: Step 1) local sponsors submit the necessary documentation to the state program; and Step 2) the remainder of the nomination package is prepared and submitted to the Federal Highway Administration once the state has determined that the byway is appropriate for nomination. See the discussion above regarding coordinating with the state program as a first step in the process.

The corridor must meet the criteria of at least one of the following Intrinsic Qualities: Scenic Quality Natural Quality

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A corridor management plan must be included as part of the nomination to the federal highway administration. Completion of this corridor management plan will facilitate the nomination process and can be included with the nomination package.

Applicants are encouraged to work closely with state byway coordinators and to engage any applicable federal land management agencies in the nomination process.

Designations of National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads shall be made by the US Secretary of Transportation after consultation with the Departments of the Interior, Agriculture, and Commerce, as appropriate. A panel of experts, designated by the Federal Highway Administration and reflecting a cross-section of the scenic byway community interests may assist in review of the nominations.

Historic Quality Cultural Quality Archeological Quality Recreational Quality

LAKE CHELAN

Wakeboarding is a popular activity on the lake

In order to be designated as an All-American Road, the road must meet the criteria for at least two of the intrinsic qualities. As demonstrated in Chapters 2 and 3 of this corridor management plan, the byway possesses many nationally-significant intrinsic qualities in all of these categories and is clearly eligible for All-American Road designation.

There has not been a call for nominations since 2008, but it is anticipated that there will be another call in the near future. In 2009, 42 new designations were announced by the Secretary of Transportation. The current number of All-American Roads in the United States is 31, and there are 120 National Scenic Byways.

Additional information, including nomination package requirements, can be found at: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/hep/scenic_byways/ nominations/ and http://www.bywaysonline. org/nominations/.

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Potential Funding Opportunities Finding funding and resources to support implementation of projects and actions along the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway will be an effort that involves all byway partners and stakeholders, as well as the Cascade Loop Association. Investigating possible funding sources and pursuing funding for byway projects and programs should be an ongoing priority.

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Federal and State Funding The byway is eligible for various types of grants and governmental funding. The transportationrelated funding structure for scenic byways has changed in recent years and could change again, so it will be important to continue to monitor federal and state programs in the coming years for possible grant opportunities.

Riverfront Park features many sculptures for public viewing

In July 2012, the new transportation bill, Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21) was enacted to sustain the Highway Trust Fund and provide states and communities with two years of steady funding to build needed roads, bridges, and transit systems. The National Scenic Byways Program was NOT eliminated by this legislation (a common point of confusion).

The national designation program still exists within the Federal Highway Administration, but there is no direct funding or grant program funds in the new bill for the National Scenic Byways Program. Scenic byway projects are eligible for funding under the new Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), which is part of MAP-21. The level of funding has been reduced and combined with funding for other types of projects, such as bicycle and pedestrian enhancements. The Federal Highway Administration has created a website that links to the new bill and provides related information and resources as they become available: http://www.fhwa.dot. gov/MAP21/ or http://ta-clearinghouse.info/index. MAP-21 is due to sunset at the end of federal fiscal year end (September 30) of 2014 unless extended. Congress is currently contemplating various transportation funding scenarios.

Allocations of the TAP funding are specifically made at the state level, and each state has a different process. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) provides TAP funding for programs and projects defined as transportation alternatives, including federally funded on- and off-road pedestrian and bicycle facilities, infrastructure projects for

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improving non-driver access to public transportation and improved mobility, community improvement activities, and environmental remediation; recreational trail program projects; and federally funded safe routes to school projects. WSDOT allocates TAP funds to the Regional Transportation Planning Organizations (RTPOs) for prioritizing and selecting projects that align with their regional priorities involving all entities eligible to participate in a public process. In addition, WSDOT sets delivery targets for each metropolitan planning organization and county lead agency. TAP funds are split – 50 percent is sub-allocated based on population based on the 2010 Census. The remaining 50 percent includes a set-aside for recreational trails; a setaside for Safe Routes to School projects; and the remainder provided to RTPOS for anywhere in their area.

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Eligible project sponsors include: Local governments; Regional transportation authorities; Transit agencies; Natural resource or public land agencies; School districts, local education agencies, or schools; Tribal governments; and Any other local or regional governmental entity with responsibility for oversight of transportation or recreational trails that the State determines to be eligible.

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WSDOT and non-profits are no longer eligible sponsors. This means that the Cascade Loop Association will need to work with its local partners, such as local governments, tribal nations, and the various RTPOs that have jurisdiction across the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway regions to identify and pursue potential funding opportunities for byway projects. The RTPO directory and contacts can be viewed at www.wsdot.wa.gov or click on this link: MPO/RTPO/County. Further details on WSDOT administration of the TAP program are available at: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ LocalPrograms/ProgramMgmt/TAP.htm

Grant Resources and Information The Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC) in Washington maintains a comprehensive data base of grants and funding resources available to local agencies. Again, to access many of these programs, the Cascade Loop Association would need to coordinate with its local government partners. MRSC information can be viewed at: http://www.mrsc. org/subjects/finance/grants/grants.aspx.

Access Washington is another good source for grants and funding information, including grants for non-profit organizations. Go to: http://access.wa.gov/topics/business/ growbusiness/grantsloans and http://access. wa.gov/topics/business/growbusiness/ grantsloans/grantsindex for more information.

CASCADE FOOTHILLS

Scenic landscapes with rugged peaks in the background

There are a variety of resources available to non-profits, foundations, small businesses and

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other entities related to grants and resources for projects and initiatives, including: http://www.usa.gov/Business/Nonprofit.shtml Enoch Pratt Free Library: http://www. prattlibrary.org/locations/ssh/?id=3130 Center for Nonprofit Excellence: http://www. thecne.org/news/featured-grants http://washington.grantwatch.com/ http://foundationcenter.org/findfunders/ The Grantsmanship Center: https://www.tgci. com/funding-sources

Community Fundraising/ Philanthropic Partners In addition to the funding and grant opportunities listed above, the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway has the potential to partner with philanthropic organizations on community fundraising efforts through organizations and clubs such as Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions, Optimists and Soroptimists, and other groups, due to the broad geographic area it covers and the diversity of recreational and civic engagement opportunities an experience on the Loop provides.

Volunteers and In-Kind Resources A variety of volunteer programs, such as Americorps, scouting organizations, Recreational Trails Association, and others can be resources for projects and activities along the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway. In reaching out to various organizations and groups to seek partnership and support, the Cascade Loop Association could begin to document these types of resources

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and opportunities among its membership, and also where needed, identify opportunities for projects that could be supported by volunteers and in-kind resources. Often in-kind resources (such as labor for trail building) can be used to match other grant funding.

Private Sector/Corporate Sponsorships and Opportunities The Cascade Loop Scenic Highway encompasses a broad geographic area, and along the way there are many largescale private sector and corporate entities who could become major sponsors and partners to byway initiatives and projects.

For example, during the planning process the potential for Seattle City Light to become a sponsor in expanding electric vehicle charging stations throughout the Loop was discussed.

Corporations that are located directly on the byway, such as Cascadian Farm and Boeing also could have a role in future program implementation, as could growers associations and representatives from the fruit industry.

The rugged, outdoor experiences provided along the Cascade Loop also might appeal to Pacific Northwest-based companies such as REI or Eddie Bauer, and perhaps these corporations have local sponsorship and community support programs that could benefit the byway. Perhaps multiple private sector partners could come together to sponsor a series of kiosks along the Cascade Loop or to support other projects.

LAKE CHELAN

Vineyards cover the countryside

MAZAMA

Hikers traverse the Methow Valley

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MUKILTEO LIGHTHOUSE & FERRY TERMINAL

Visitors get a closer look at the Mukilteo Lighthouse

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Project Implementation Process Once a project is funded, it is ready to move forward to completion. Many agencies and organizations have experience with implementing projects, and they may already follow specific procedures for their projects.

The Cascade Loop Association should work with each lead agency/organization assigned to each project in the action plan to confirm the specific process for implementation. The steps listed on the following pages provide some general guidance for project implementation.

This process applies primarily to projects that would implement physical improvements at sites along the byway.

Steps 1, 2 and 3 can often be accomplished prior to obtaining funding for the project, and may be submitted as part of the application for grants or funding. For more specific requirements, including regulatory and code provisions that may be applicable depending on the location of the project, refer to the local jurisdiction (city and county) where the project is located. Also, refer to the Interpretive Project Checklist in Chapter 5 for additional guidance specific to implementing interpretive projects.

ANACORTES MUSEUM

Highlights the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rich maritime history

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Steps to Successful Project Implementation 1

Assign Project Manager/Director

Confirm the lead agency or organization responsible for the project and assign a specific project manager or director who will be responsible for implementation.

2

Set Up an Advisory or Steering Committee

Assemble and organize a small advisory or steering committee to work with your project director and provide ongoing guidance and input during project implementation. The purpose of this committee is to “advise.” They may or may not be the final decision makers, but they will provide input and guidance to help the process as it moves along. The committee may include citizen representatives, as well as technical representatives from affected agencies or interest groups involved in the project. The maximum size of the committee ideally should be no more than twelve to fifteen people. For small projects, a group of three to five people may be sufficient.

3

Prepare Scope of Work for the Project and Request for Qualifications/Proposals for Consultant Services (If Needed)

Work with the steering committee and lead agency/organization to develop a detailed scope of work for the project, along with a request for qualifications/proposals (RFQ or RFP) if needed to retain consultant services for planning, design, or other support. Even if the project will be implemented without outside consultant or design support, development of a clear scope of work will be important. The scope of work should specify: Work efforts/tasks to be accomplished Expected products/deliverables for each task Expected timeline/schedule for completion of each task and provision of deliverables, as well as a schedule for completion of the project overall; if the project is to be phased, the work plan should address how the phasing will occur

Assigned responsibilities for each task (task leader and team member responsibilities) Description of any special considerations that may affect project implementation (such as permitting, special review processes, environmental conditions, etc.)

4

Professional Consultant Selection Process

For selection of a professional consultant for federally funded projects, a competitive selection project is typically required. Consultants respond to the RFQ/RFP with a submittal of their qualifications and a specific proposal for the project. The project steering committee (or selection panel) may review proposals and select the preferred consultant on the basis of their qualifications and alignment with selection criteria. For federally funded projects, qualifications-based selection is required, which means the preferred consultant is selected based on their qualifications first and then the agency/organization proceeds to negotiate the price for the work to be completed. Professional consultants should not be selected on the basis of cost proposals, but rather their experience and capability to perform the work. Even if a project will be implemented solely through volunteer services, volunteers should be selected based on a clear understanding of the work involved and their capability to provide the services.

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Finalize the Project Work Plan and Get Started

Once all the technical expertise is onboard to accomplish the project, the project director and core project team should work together to finalize the work plan (scope of work, schedule, deliverables, and assigned hours/costs to each task). The work plan, including the project schedule, should be monitored closely and updated regularly as the project moves forward.

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Site Analysis, Conceptual Planning, Environmental Clearances and Land Use Permits

For projects that involve physical improvements to sites, an important initial step is to evaluate existing conditions at the site and determine if there are sensitivities that might influence the design (such as the presence of cultural resources or historic structures). This step also involves identifying specific environmental clearances and land use permits/approvals that will be required to implement the project.

This step often involves preparation of a conceptual site plan or preliminary designs showing the project in the context of existing conditions.

Other specific activities may include: Meeting/coordinating with tribal representatives and continue to involve tribal representatives in the project; inviting review and input at key milestones (check with the county/local agency to confirm tribes of interest to the project)

Completing cultural and historic resource inventories

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Steps to Successful Project Implementation, Continued 7

Public and Stakeholder Involvement

Public, community, and stakeholder involvement and outreach opportunities are an important aspect of every byway project. Activities should be designed to fit the scope and scale of the project. Some activities should occur at key milestones – such as to present and gain input on design alternatives. Other activities may be ongoing, such as project updates through email or on the byway website. See earlier discussion in this section of the CMP related to recommended public and stakeholder involvement tools.

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Design Process and Design Reviews

The project design phase typically includes multiple stages of work, such as:

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30 percent design completion or preliminary design (may also be called “design development”); this stage of work is typically followed by client review and input

•

90 percent design completion, which includes further development of draft construction drawings and specifications based on review

•

60 percent design completion, which includes development of draft construction drawings and specifications; this stage of work is typically followed by client review and input; local permit packages for building approvals or sign installation may also be developed at this stage (or at the 90 percent stage)

•

100 percent design, which involves finalizing the construction drawings and specifications and preparing the project to go out to bid for construction (as most public projects do)

9

Building Permits/ Construction Permits

Before taking a project out to bid, obtainment of local and state building permits and construction permits will be important (some construction permits may be obtained by the construction contractor before they start the work on site).

10

Bidding Process

Depending on the size of the project, and local and federal requirements, the bidding process may include gathering proposals from a select list of potential contractors or advertising the project (with an Invitation to Bid) through a public notice in the local newspaper. Bids are submitted and contractors may be selected based on a variety of factors, including costs and qualifications (check with the county/local agency to confirm bidding process requirements).

11

Construction/ Construction Administration

The project then moves on to construction and often a third party entity or the design consultant will be retained to manage construction and provide construction administration. Seasonal conditions and wildlife patterns (such as fish spawning and bird nesting) may affect construction periods. These requirements are confirmed during the process of obtaining environmental clearances and permits for the project.

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Groundbreaking and Ribbon Cutting Celebrations

Don’t forget to bring byway partners and project interests together to celebrate milestones in the process—particularly groundbreaking and ribboncutting ceremonies. Local, state, and federal elected officials should be invited to participate in these events, along with tribal elders and leaders.

13

Monitor and Document Project Success/Effectiveness

After the project is completed, it will be important for the responsible agency/organization to continue to monitor use and document how the project has enhanced visitor experience, cultural and natural resources, and/or the quality of life for communities along the byway.

It is always important to document and measure byway successes to encourage ongoing participation and involvement in the byway.

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Ongoing Maintenance and Operations

Project implementation doesn’t end once a project is constructed and under use. The responsible agency or organization must continue to provide maintenance and care of the improvements and facilities. For this reason, it is always important to consider the best ways to minimize maintenance costs and resources, and maximize life cycle of public investments as part of the planning and design process.