Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail Master Plan: Lenoir to Morganton

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overmountain victory national historic trail master plan LENOIR

MORGANTON

SUMMER 2015

"The landowner is the only person that can actually give this gift for the rest of eternity."

– Judy Perry, caldwell county pathways

Overmountain Victory

National Historic Trail Master Plan LENOIR >> MORGANTON

Produced for US National Park Service Caldwell County Pathways, Inc.

Town of Gamewell

City of Lenoir

Burke County

Caldwell County

City of Morganton

PRODUCED by

Destination by Design Planning, LLC | 815 West King Street, Suite 2 | Boone, North Carolina 28607 | 828.386.1866 | www.DbDplanning.com

WITH ASSISTANCE FROM

Acknowledgments National Park Service John Slaughter, Group Superintendent, Southern Campaign of the American Revolution Parks Garrett Jackson, Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail

Caldwell County Pathways, Inc. Brandon Thompson, Chair John Dockery, Vice Chair Ashley McKinney, Secretary Judy Perry, Treasurer Cyndi Akins, Board Member

Darlene Bemy, Board Member

Barbara C. Pennell, Council Member

Maria Swanson, Board Member

Wilford Beane, Council Member

City of Lenoir Joseph L. Gibbons, Mayor

Brad Caldwell, Board Member Tony Deal, Board Member Sam Erwin, Board Member Bob Giduz, Board Member Taylor Gupton, Board Member Brandon Kanagy, Board Member Mike Kent, Board Member Mike McCall, Board Member Shawn Moore, Board Member Kelsey Pfaff, Board Member Merlin Perry, Board Member Susan Powers, Board Member Jan Pritchard, Board Member Rick Rash, Board Member Deborah Ashley Smith, Board Member Lori Starnes, Board Member Jenny Wheelock, Board Member Eddie Winkler, Board Member

Mike Kent, Council Member Mary L. Carter, Town Administrator

T.J. Rohr, Mayor Pro-Tem Kim Edmisten, City Councilwoman Todd Perdue, City Councilman Ike Perkins, City Councilman David Stevens, City Councilman Crissy Thomas, City Councilwoman Ben Willis, City Councilman

Camilla Armfield, Board Member Ron Beane, Board Member

Dan Kincaid, Council Member

Burke County Johnny Carswell, Chairman, Board of Commissioners Wayne Able, Vice Chair, Board of Commissioners Maynard Taylor, Member, Board of Commissioners Jack Carroll, Member, Board of Commissioners Jeff Brittain, Member, Board of Commissioners

Danny Gilbert, Assistant City Manager & Finance Director

Scott Carpenter, Deputy County Manager/Planning Director

Jenny Wheelock, Planning Director Charles Beck, Public Works & Engineering Director Taylor Gupton, Planner & GIS Specialist

Caldwell County Randy Church, Chairman, Board of Commissioners Jeff Branch, Vice Chair, Board of Commissioners Clay Bollinger, Member, Board of Commissioners Mike LaBrose, Member, Board of Commissioners Donnie Potter, Member, Board of Commissioners

City of Morganton Mel L. Cohen, Mayor John H. Cantrell, Jr., Mayor Pro-Tem Forrest A. Fleming, Councilman S. Sidney Simmons, Councilman Ronnie M. Thompson, Councilman Lee E. Anderson, AICP, Director of Development & Design Services Michael Berley, PLA, Project Designer

Stan Kiser, County Manager Kim Carter, Planning Technician

Town of Gamewell

Landowner Outreach Video Interviewees Senator Jim Broyhill John Slaughter, National Park Service

Hunter M. Crump, Mayor

Ben Griffin, Landowner

Johnny K. Lefever, Mayor Pro-Tem

Merlin and Judy Perry, Trail Enthusiasts

contents

Table of Contents

introduction 1 Background 2 Plan Goals

3

Planning Process

4

Plan Organization

5

Chapter 1: Existing Conditions, Analysis, and Preliminary Alignments Study Area Description

Signage and Wayfinding Social Media: The New Word of Mouth

chapter 4: recommendations

40 41

43

Planning Sections Overview

44

Trail Sections Recommendations

46

7 8

Chapter 5: implementation

81

The Natural Environment

10

Implementation Details by Section and Responsibility

82

The Built Environment

14

Priority Implementation Areas and Responsibilities

83

Map And Photo Series: Preliminary Trail Route Alternatives

19

Trail Support Spectrum

84

Chapter 2: landowner engagement

29

Appendix 85 (A1) Budget

86

31

(A2) Fact Sheet

87

Landowner Workshop

32

(A3) Landowner Letter

87

Trail Route Re-Evaluation

34

(A4) Landowner Interest Survey

88

(A5) Funding Sources

88

(A6) Public-Private Partnership Memo

89

Identifying the Landowners

30

Landowner Communications

Chapter 3: trail character & Design guidelines

35

Trail Types

36

Trail Types Profile

38

vii

contents

list of maps

List of Exhibits

Map 1: OVNHT Commemorative Motor Route

2

Exhibit 1: Johns River Game Lands

13

Map 2: General Study Area

8

Exhibit 2: Trail Type Profile

38

Map 3: Study Area 1 Site Analysis

20

Exhibit 3: Social Media: The New Word of Mouth

42

Map 4: Study Area 2 Site Analysis

22

Exhibit 4: Creekway Drive Crossing

48

Map 5: Study Area 3 Site Analysis

24

Exhibit 5: Main Street Crossing and Trailhead

49

Map 6: Study Area 4 Site Analysis

26

Exhibit 6: Get Down @ the Depot

52

Map 7: Landowner Database

30

Exhibit 7: Brewing Up Investment

53

Map 8: Landowner Sentiment

34

Exhibit 8: Highway 18 Crossing

56

Map 9: Planning Sections Overview

44

Exhibit 9: #trail2victory Bridge

57

Map 10: Planning Section 1

47

Exhibit 10: Southwest Blvd. Underpass

58

Map 11: Planning Section 2

51

Exhibit 11: Restore the Stream, Realize the Dream

59

Map 12: Planning Section 3

55

Exhibit 12: Highway 18 Side Path

63

Map 13: Planning Section 4

61

Exhibit 13: Workplace Wellness Campus

67

Map 14: Planning Section 5

65

Exhibit 14: Calico Road Underpass

71

Map 15: Planning Section 6

69

Exhibit 15: Highway 18/64 Underpass

78

Map 16: Planning Section 7

73

Exhibit 16: Grace Ridge Trailhead

79

Map 17: Planning Section 8

75

Exhibit 17: Implementation Details by Section and Responsibilities

82

Map 18: Planning Section 9

77

Exhibit 18: Trail Rubicon: Finding the Point of No Return

83

Exhibit 19: Priority Implementation Areas and Responsibilities

83

ix

introduction

the overmountain victory national historic trail is 330 miles in length and includes portions of virginia, tennessee, north carolina and south carolina. The trail commemorates the significance of the patriot militia that marched over the appalachian mountains to defeat the BRITISH-LED loyalist army at the battle of kings mountain on october 8, 1780.

This trail master plan SERVES AS A ROAD MAP FOR ESTABLISHING A seCtion of the overmountain victory national historic trail (ovnht) IN NORTH CAROLINA from the city of lenoir to the city of morganton.

introduction

background

map 1: ovnht commemorative motor route

Caldwell County Pathways: On a Mission The mission of Caldwell County Pathways, Inc. (CC Pathways) is “to develop, coordinate and promote non-motorized, multi-use pathways for the enhancement of the quality of life in Caldwell County.” For more than a decade this nonprofit organization, in conjunction with the City of Lenoir, has successfully realized a more than five-mile greenway trail network throughout the City. In addition, CC Pathways has helped spearhead the development of other trails throughout the county such as the Johns River Greenway and the Happy Valley Greenway. It has been a longstanding vision of this organization to develop a trail along the Lower Creek corridor that would ultimately connect the City of Lenoir greenway, Town of Gamewell, and City of Morganton Greenway.

The Ultimate Partnership In 2014, CC Pathways, in collaboration with the City of Lenoir, Town of Gamewell, and Caldwell County, successfully secured partnership funds from the National Park Service (NPS) to develop a comprehensive trail master plan for the Lower Creek corridor from Lenoir to Morganton.

The NPS willingly provided funding for this trail initiative because it was along this corridor that the “Overmountain Men” marched from the mountains and foothills of Appalachia in 1780 on their way to the Battle of Kings Mountain where they defeated a British-led army to “turn the tide” of the Revolutionary War. It is expected that trail developed along this corridor with permanent protection measures in place (easements, fee simple, right of way, etc.) will be certified by the NPS as part of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail.

2

This plan's study area This trail section spans from Lenoir to Morganton. lenoir

lake james morganton

The Sister Plan This trail plan was developed in conjunction with another Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail Master Plan that explores the Catawba River corridor from Lake James to Morganton.

Although two separate plans were developed, the planning process was combined for both planning efforts.

introduction

plan goals

a critical component of this plan was landowner outreach.

1 2 3

SPECIFIC TRAIL ROUTES.

Identify a specific and feasible trail route within a 1/2 mile of the known historic Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail as determined by NPS;

4

Support Other Community Goals. Identify op-

5

Social Media. Incorporate modern social me-

Landowner Outreach. Make a direct appeal to

landowners identified during the analysis and record their sentiments for providing a trail easement;

Visual Plan. Create a visual plan that provides

portunities to leverage trail development to further support other community goals, including economic development, historic preservation, public health, and environmental stewardship; and

dia marketing tools within the trail and signage infrastructure to promote the development of “user generated� marketing content.

renderings and schematics to demonstrate trail character;

3

introduction

planning process the trail project. After receiving comments from landowners, the preliminary trail routes were revised accordingly.

The consultant team met with local trail and government leaders to discuss general environmental constraints and opportunities for trail connectivity.

4. Plan Development | March – May 2015

Research | October – January 2015 The consultant team conducted a thorough site analysis of the study area and determined feasible trail route options.

With the trail routes identified, a landowner contact list was developed.

5.

3. Landowner Outreach | February – March 2015

fact sheet

The consultant team worked in tandem with local leaders to develop a preferred trail alignment. Renderings and schematics were provided to visually support the trail recommendations.

FACT SHEET

A trail master planning effort is underway to help create a section of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail (OVT) that would connect from Lenoir to Morganton to Lake James!

BACKGROUND

2.

Direction Setting and Project Launch | September 2014

Thanks to grant support from the National Park Service, regional community organizations and local governments are working to establish a walking and leisure biking trail that connects the region and celebrates the trail walked by the Overmountain Men who won a major Revolutionary War battle at Kings Mountain in 1780.

The trail planning process requires an analysis of the Lower Creek corridor in Caldwell County and the Catawba River corridor in Burke County. The trail is best suited in floodplain areas where development generally cannot occur and where there are meaningful connections to existing parks, civic buildings, and neighborhoods.

After identifying feasible trail route options, there will be a major landowner outreach effort. Without the voluntary commitment from landowners, the trail will either be relocated or not constructed.

An educational video will be developed to help communicate the historical significance of the OVT, which will be made available online.

Final Plan Preparation | May – July 2015 Publish the Final Plan for review by the public and elected officials.

Landowners with property along an identified feasible trail route were invited to a special meeting to learn more about

THE PLANNING PROCESS

1.

www.OVTplan.com

1 Direction Setting and Project Launch

| September 2014 The consultant team will meet with local trail and government leaders to generally discuss environmental constraints and opportunities for trail connectivity.

2

Research | October – January 2015 The consultant team will conduct a thorough environmental assessment of the study area and determine feasible trail route options. With the trail routes identified, a landowner contact list will be developed.

3

Landowner Outreach | February – March 2015 Landowners with property along an identified feasible trail route will be invited to a special meeting to learn more about the trail project. After receiving comments from landowners, the preliminary trail routes will be updated.

4

Plan Development | March – May 2015 The consultant team will document the trail analysis and landowner comments. Recommendations will highlight alternative routes and the project’s overall feasibility for completion. A draft plan will be made available for public comment.

5

Final Plan Preparation | May – June 2015 The consultant team will publish a final plan that incorporates all public comments.

CONSULTANT CONTACT: Eric Woolridge, AICP Destination by Design Email: Eric@dbdplanning.com Phone: (828) 386-1866 Web: www.DbDplanning.com

A project fact sheet provided interested parties with background information and a project timeline.

•Physical Inventory •Physiographic Analysis •Natural Inventory •Points of Interest & Structures •Environmental •Infrastructure & Utilities •Video Development

•Public Meeting & Engagement •Landowner Outreach Workshops

MARCH - MAY ’15 •Design Alternatives •Wayfinding & Structural Elements •Branding S I G N A•Opinion G E C O N C of E P Probable T Cost •Route Feasibility •Landowner Follow-up

DRAFT PLAN, DESIGN CONCEPTS, COSTS

•Kick Off •Facilitating Planning Oversight Committee

FEB. - March ‘15 PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT & LANDOWNER OUTREACH

OCT. ‘14 - JAN. ’15 RESEARCH AND PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS

DIRECTION SETTING

SEPT. ‘14

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This chapter provides a comprehensive overview and analysis of the opportunities and constraints found throughout the study area. The analysis begins with a brief description of the study area followed by a comprehensive discussion of the natural and built environments and their implications for trail suitability, trail design features, permitting, costs, etc. This chapter concludes with a map and photographic series that highlights a host of preliminary trail route alternatives.

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Significant efforts were made to reach out to landowners where the preliminary analysis indicates that the trail is most suitable. This chapter describes the landowner outreach process and provides highlights from the landowner workshop meetings.

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Hwy 64 Corridor Widening Project May Benefit a Parallel Greenway Alignment

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The final chapter is organized according to nine (9) planning sections. Each planning section description includes a map that identifies a preferred alignment. Each planning section further incorporates the analysis and design elements from the previous chapters along with a host of supporting renderings and design schematics.

5

introduction

6

Chapter 1 Existing Conditions, Analysis, and Preliminary Alignments

an overview and analysis of the opportunities and constraints found in the study area.

The analysis begins with a brief description of the study area followed by a comprehensive discussion of the natural and built environments and their

I n t h is c h ap t e r A. Study Area Description B. Natural Environment Analysis

implications for trail suitability, trail design features,

C. Human/Built Environment Analysis

permitting, costs, etc. This chapter concludes with a

D. Map and Photo Series: Preliminary Trail Route Al-

map and photographic series that highlights a host of preliminary trail route alternatives.

ternatives

chapter 1

MAP 2: GENERAL STUDY AREA

study area

General Study Area description: The Lenoir to Morganton OVNHT study area is one-mile wide and extends approximately 20-miles long from the heart of Caldwell County to the northern reaches of Burke County. The northern terminus begins in the City of Lenoir at the junction of Creekway Drive and the abandoned rail corridor. Before reaching the edge of historic downtown Lenoir, it travels along Lower Creek. The study area extends south along Lower Creek, Highway 18, and through the Town of Gamewell. Land uses south of Gamewell are typified by low density residential, agricultural, forested/undeveloped, and limited light industrial along Highway 18.

Upon entering Burke County, the study area incorporates the Johns River Game Lands (3,893 acres), which is managed by NC Wildlife Resources. The southern terminus of the study area reaches the northern extent of the Catawba River Greenway, which includes a 3.8 mile section of designated Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail.

THE 20 MILE STUDY AREA begins on creekway drive in lenoir and ends at the rocky ford access in morganton.

8

E xX iI sS tT iI nN gG C oO nN dD iI tT iI oO nN sS , A nN aA lL yY sS iI sS , aA nN dD P rR eE lL iI m M iI nN aA rR yY A lL iI gG nN m M eE nN tT sS

analysis workflow alternate trail routes were determined based on an analysis of the natural and built environments.

SIT EN M N O R I V EN

T

EN M N O R I V EN

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T 9

chapter 1

The Natural Environment The opportunities and constraints found within the natural environment are critical for identifying suitable trail locations and feasibility, quality user experiences, and determining construction costs and necessary permits.

This section explores the implications of the study area’s natural environment for establishing the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail from Lenoir to Morganton and includes five (5) parts: 1) Floodplains; 2) Wetlands and Hydric Soils; 3) Streams, Lakes, and Ponds; 4) Steep Slopes; and 5) Rare Flora and Fauna.

along Antioch Road, Caldwell County

10

EXISTING CONDITIONS, ANALYSIS, AND PRELIMINARY ALIGNMENTS

“Much of the floodplain areas along the Lower Creek corridor are ideal for greenway development.”

Floodpl ains

Wetl ands and Hydric Soils

Streams, Lakes, and Ponds

Floodplain areas are often suitable for trail development. Since traditional development is often not conducive to floodplain areas, private landowners are often more willing to provide access for public trails within these corridors. Also, these scenic areas often attract wildlife, which creates an engaging trail experience. Within this study area, much of the floodplain areas along the Lower Creek corridor are ideal for greenway development.

The study area includes several wetland areas as identified on the National Wetland Inventory (NWI). According to NWI, there are likely smaller wetland areas within the study area that are not indicated within their inventory which could impact final trail alignments. Wetland indicators include hydric soils in combination with wetland plant species and wetland hydrology that if impacted, could require costly permitting for these trail sections².

The county, state, and federal government regulate the many waterbodies found throughout the study area³. Lower Creek, Johns River, the Catawba River, and their tributaries include some of most important waterways found within the study area; there are permitting implications for crossing and bridging these water bodies⁴.

Although development is regulated within the floodplain, greenways and trails are allowed and can be permitted. Sound trail engineering techniques are necessary to ensure trails can sustain flooding. To the extent possible, greenway alignments should be avoided within the floodway1.

2. If wetlands are unavoidable, utilize elevated boardwalk systems. Boardwalks allow for travel over flat, poorly draining soils, standing water, and wetland features and have significantly less impact than other options. A section 404 (Clean Water Act) Permit may be required if the wetland is considered jurisdictional by the USACE. This means that the wetland is not isolated and part of a broader lake or water system. A small boardwalk for a non-isolated wetland with limited fill or dredging may qualify for a programmatic Nationwide Permit. Nationwide Permits are designed to streamline the permitting process for actions with limited disturbances. In addition to permitting, disturbances exceeding a tenth ( 0.1) of an acre would require mitigation which can increase project costs. Impacts under a tenth (0.1) of an acre do not trigger mitigation fees.

3. Maintain a 50-foot buffer from all waterways, particularly those regulated under the Catawba River Buffer Rules. The state requires a 50-foot buffer along the shorelines of Catawba River and associated lakes. Streams within the study area are identified by the State of North Carolina as having poor water quality and maintaining or improving an adequate vegetated buffer is crucial to improving the quality. Zone 1 of this buffer includes an undisturbed 30-foot buffer from top of bank in which trails are discouraged. Zone 2 is an additional 20-foot buffer. This zone allows for managed vegetation and trails and greenways. While trails are an allowable use within Zone 2, the NC Division of Water Quality requires a permit (through DWQ or designated local government). The applicant must show that disturbance has been minimized and no other alternatives exist.

4. Plan for permits related to waterway Impacts. Federal 401/404 Certifications will likely be required in cases where any stream or waterway alterations occur. These alterations would be most likely in conjunction with bridge improvements or addition of structures near waterways. Triggers for the permit include disturbance to the stream bed, banks, damming of the waterway, or placement of material within the waterway (i.e. culverts/pipes).

1. Avoid disturbance in the floodway. Avoid placement of structures or disturbance within the floodway.

Floodways are regulated locally and by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Fill, structures (walls, kiosks, etc), and impervious services are discouraged. Any structures located within the floodway require a no-impact/no-rise certification through FEMA. These studies can vary on cost but can range from $2,500-$15,000 depending on complexity.

11

chapter 1

Steep Slopes

Rare Flora and Fauna

Much of the study area includes gently rolling topography and thus avoids impacting steep slopes. The most challenging slopes are found within the Johns River Game Lands. The trail should be designed for grades under 5% slope if possible. Natural surface trails can vary up to 10% slope.

Alignments proposed in this study should be designed with these guidelines and may require a larger corridor to incorporate a more gradual trail grade.

The State Natural Heritage Program provides data identifying the state’s most sensitive environmental areas to be avoided; these areas are incorporated within the analysis map series at the end of this chapter. Also, rare flora and fauna species can also exist outside of these designated areas, which can alter final trail alignments prior to construction. Species identified by the State Natural Heritage Program within this study area as of January 2015 include: A. Sticky Bog Ashpodel (Lower Creek and tributaries) B. Carolina Foothills Crayfish (Celia Creek, Lower Creek areas in Gamewell, and in the Catawba River) C. Bog Turtle (Bristol Creek and Johns River Game Lands) D. Notched Rainbow Seagreen Darter (Warrior Creek)

photo by others

12

Of special note is the Bristol Creek Wetlands Natural Heritage Area, which is located on both Johns River Game Lands and private land. This site is noted as having some of the most outstanding ecological resources in the state.

Coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife (USFWS) is an important aspect of the design process. Involving USFWS early on in the process can help avoid obstacles related to federally protected species. Additionally, permits like Section 401 and 404 (see Wetlands and Hydric Soils section, page 5) will initiate the review of the State Natural Heritage Program database. If species are found within the project area, State or Federal requirements may dictate avoidance or mitigation.

Exhibit 1: Johns River Gamelands

EXISTING CONDITIONS, ANALYSIS, AND PRELIMINARY ALIGNMENTS

johns river game lands

T

he Johns River Game Lands comprises 3,893 acres in northern Burke County and is managed by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. This public land, which includes the Bristol Creek Wetlands Natural Heritage Area, is renowned for having some of the most outstanding ecological resources in the state.

Within this planning process, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission expressed a willingness to consider the creation of a section of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail through the Johns River Game Lands provided some general guidelines are met: 1. Avoid areas that are actively managed like habitat improvement areas and open meadows (indicated on maps and notes).

2. Avoid the primary and buffered Natural Heritage Dedica-

3. Paralleling roads like Highway 18/64 and Johns River Loop is recommended.

4. Avoid areas listed in the State Natural Heritage Area program.

tion zones. The buffered areas are slightly less critical for avoidance.

13

chapter 1

The Built Environment The opportunities and constraints found within the built and human environment are critical for determining suitable trail locations and feasibility, ideal user experiences, construction costs, and necessary permits.

This section highlights five (5) built environmental features and their implications for developing the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail from Lenoir to Morganton, including: 1) Land Use; 2) Existing Trails and Parks; 3) Utilities; 4) Transportation; and 5) Historic Resources.

photo by others

14

EXISTING CONDITIONS, ANALYSIS, AND PRELIMINARY ALIGNMENTS

land use snapshot

“The City of Lenoir has made significant strides in the past 10 years to revitalize its historic downtown core and would be well-served by an Accessible public greenway trail."

The City of Lenoir

The Town of Gamewell

Gamewell Town Hall Gamewell is a rural community with an unconsolidated commercial corridor along Highway 18/64. There are multiple large tracks of land occupied by tree farms and wholesale nurseries along Lower Creek. Gamewell’s Town Hall and its new park are ideal for trail connectivity.

Lower Creek

photo by others

The study area begins in the City of Lenoir, a historic community located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains that serves as the county seat. The City has made significant strides in the past 10 years to revitalize its historic downtown core. The City’s downtown is comprised of a mix of land uses, including commercial, civic, and residential, and would be well-served by an accessible public greenway trail.

The City is heavily influenced by a tradition of furniture manufacturing. The land uses immediately adjacent to downtown includes both antiquated and more modern warehouse facilities, many which connect to an aban-

Historic Downtown Lenoir doned rail line that is ideal for trail development. The rail line was abandoned in 2008 when Google constructed a data center located on Highway 18 and adjacent to the study area. Some of the more historic warehouses along the abandoned rail line are vacant and a public greenway could further assist with revitalization efforts.

Downtown Lenoir includes a variety of dense and historic neighborhoods, some which serve low income populations and would be particularly well-served by a greenway system connecting to other neighborhoods and commercial areas.

Lower Creek near the Town of Gamewell The southern portion of the study corridor from Gamewell to Morganton is the most rural and includes large tracts of private forested land, wetlands, and the Johns River Game Lands. Low-density rural development exists mostly along major roads, while extensive farming activities take place along Lower Creek.

15

chapter 1

existing parks and greenways Town of Gamewell Park

“Caldwell County, Lenoir, Gamewell, and Morganton have a collection of parks and greenways that are ideal for trail connections. �

Lenoir Greenway

Caldwell County Government Center

photo: Caldwell County Pathways

The Lenoir Greenway extends more than a total of five miles. According to existing Lenoir greenway plans, the OVNHT trail will intersect with the Lenoir Greenway near the Google Data Center.

16

The Town of Gamewell has created a major park facility near their town hall along Highway 18. In addition to traditional recreation amenities, such a playground and basketball court, this park also includes a paved walking path along its perimeter. The Gamewell walking path is a natural connectivity point for the planned OVNHT.

Catawba River Greenway and Rocky Ford Access

photo: discoverburkecounty.com

Caldwell County constructed a workplace wellness walking loop at the government center along Highway 18.

This walking loop is within the OVNHT study area and serves as a natural trail connectivity point.

The northern terminus of the Catawba River Greenway, which is certified as part of the OVNHT, is located at Rocky Ford Access. This pocket park serves as the southern terminus of the Lenoir to Morganton study area.

EXISTING CONDITIONS, ANALYSIS, AND PRELIMINARY ALIGNMENTS

utilities

Transportation

Sewer Lines Along Lower Creek The study area has a complex matrix of utilities that include transmission lines, utility towers, water lines, and sewer infrastructure. Both sewer and water lines are indicated on the subsequent map series.

Locations where the potential trail alignment intersect with sewer or water lines have been indicated on the map and notes. Sewer lines are often compatible with trails since existing easements preclude development.

However, these easements often need to be modified to allow for a public trail.

Lenoir has an extensive network of sewer and water lines extending into Gamewell. Sewer lines travel parallel with Lower Creek and could be an optimal trail location.

Sewer lines terminate on the north side of Rocky Road.

Highway 18/64 ROW The study area analysis included an extensive review of the existing transportation network including the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) rightof-way (ROW), NCDOT plans, existing bike and pedestrian infrastructure (crosswalks, bike lanes, etc.), railways, and existing greenways.

NCDOT’s right-of-way was analyzed for its ability to accommodate a separate side path or a widened shoulder.

These opportunities are shown on the Site Analysis Maps with corresponding opportunities and constraints notes.

Abandoned Rail in Lenoir A 2.7 mile section of abandoned rail through the heart of Lenoir provides a significant opportunity for trail implementation. The City of Lenoir and Caldwell County Pathways are pursuing an official declaration of rail abandonment that will authorize the City to utilize this ROW for trail development. Additional segments of abandoned spur tracks, which once connected to active industrial operations, present unique opportunities for trail connectivity and are shown on the subsequent map series and associated notes.

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chapter 1

historIC rESOURCES

“the OVNHT should link, preserve, and interpret historic and cultural sites along its route."

Fort Crider Historic Marker, City of Lenoir The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail Route

Sensitive Cultural Resource Areas

Historic Sites and Landscape

The original Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail (OVNHT) route was identified by a National Parks Service research team. The team relied on the 1881 reenactment account of the march, which has been amended by local historians, descendants of battle participants, and other sources. As part of this congressionally designated trail, any officially designated portion of the OVNHT must lie within a one-mile corridor (half-mile on either side) of the historic route.

Culturally sensitive resource areas have been mapped utilizing data from the NC State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). The majority of these areas occur along the waterways of Lower Creek, Johns River, and Warrior Fork. These areas should be avoided to the extent possible to ensure the preservation of historic resources.

SHPO oversees a large database of historic sites and resources. All resources, including those related to the OVNHT, are included within the subsequent analysis map series. These resources include information from SHPO surveys as well as a list of sites related to the National Register of Historic Places (which the National Park Service oversees but individual states manage). The most critical sites include those listed on the National Register (NR) or determined eligible (DOE) as they have further protection under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act . The National Park Service has emphasized that to the extent possible, this plan should link, preserve, and interpret national and cultural resources.

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Waterbodies Streams

Waterlines

ST

CR EE KW

Hydric Soils

Local Roads State and County Roads Utilities

WE

Sewer

E AV

15

Flood Zones

Floodway 100-Year Floodplain 500-Year Floodplain

West Lenoir Elementary

Unity Park & Community Gardens

Caldwell Memorial Hospital

Davenport Elementary

16

18/

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Lenoir Golf Course

EXISTING CONDITIONS, ANALYSIS, AND PRELIMINARY ALIGNMENTS 17 Southern Railway

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Lenoir High School/Fort Crider

Freight Station

18

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ork

ABIN

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Brownfield (NACCO Materials)

Alignment ‘B’

MAP 2area 2 study

Opportunities

50

Public Health Departments

Federal & State Ownership Private Municipal/County Owned Properties

Active & Inactive Landfills

NRHD Boundary Study List (SL)

Natural Community

High

Unranked

Gamewell

Wetlands (NWI)

Sewer

Gamewell

21

22

k ree rC

NC Ecosystem Enhancement Easement

we

23

Lo

25

S. LENOIR/ GAMEWELL

MAP 2 Tuttle State

Forest Site Analysis Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail

23

2 studyMAParea 2

43

Gamewell

18/ 64

MAP 3

26

27

Lenoir to Morganton Greenway Study

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Element Occurrence: Carolina Foothills Crayfish

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Private Municipal/County Owned Properties

ek

37

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Hazardous Sites

National Register (NR) of Historic Places Site

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39

18/ 64

CA

Colleges and Universities

Schools

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24

Managed Lands

Historic Sites and Ditricts

er

Gamewell Elementary School

500-Year Floodplain

MAP 3area 3 study

Federal & State Ownership

Lenoir Water Plant

19

Floodway

Existing Trails

Public Libraries

40

100-Year Floodplain

Fishing Access Parks Golf Courses

Public Health Departments

Lenoir

Flood Zones

Proposed Trails

Hospitals

321

Gamewell Middle School

41

Waterbodies

OVNHT 1/2-Mile Buffer

Property Lines Duke & Crescent Properties

2 studyMAP area 2

Streams

OVNHT & Other Recreation Overmountain Victory NH Trail

Municipal Boundaries

20

Hydric Soils

Waterlines

LEGEND

Civic Landmarks

36

32

Buffered Zone

Utilities

County Boundary

General

Hydrology

Interstates State Roads Local Roads State and County Roads

20-Foot Contours

Moderate

Primary Zone

NCDOT Bridge Locations Rail Roads Roads/Interstates

Connectors

Exceptional Very High

Natural Heritage Dedication Zones (Johns River Game Lands)

Bike Route

Constraints

Alternative ‘A’ Has Two Options (Hwy 18/64 Vs.Lower Creek)

Natural Heritage Areas

Transportation

Opportunities

22

Caldwell Caldwell County County Animal Animal Shelter Shelter

Animal

SL, DOE, and Landmark DOE NRHD Surveyed Surveyed in NRHD Site Gone Sensitive Cultural Resources

38

Gamewell Town Hall

Animal Assemblage

SL and Landmark SL and Determined Eligible (DOE)

50

ill

17

State Natural Heritage Data Element Occurances Plant

Local District Center Point

TH Broyhill Walking Park Start of Inactive Rail

Furniture Factory

M

Park Trail

Inactive Hazardous Sites

National Register Historic District (NRHD)

Google Data Center

35

Town of

34 Gamewell

Brownfields

NR and Local Landmark

Alignment ‘B’

16

Hazardous Sites

National Register (NR) of Historic Places Site

k

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West Caldwell High School

Managed Lands

Colleges and Universities Schools

23 24 25 26

20

L

Public Libraries

Historic Sites and Ditricts

21

Lenoir Mulberry Recreation Center

18/ 64

19

8

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14 30

Fishing Access Parks Golf Courses

Hospitals

13

Lenoir Mall

29

31

32

Proposed Trails

Civic Landmarks

9

27

28

33

Existing Trails

Property Lines Duke & Crescent Properties

Alignment ‘A’

15

OVNHT 1/2-Mile Buffer

Municipal Boundaries

10

Caldwell County Health Department Caldwell County Health Department 13 12

Lenoir to Morganton Greenway Study

OVNHT & Other Recreation Overmountain Victory NH Trail

20-Foot Contours County Boundary

AR

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11

18/ 64

reek

Connectors

map and photo series: preliminary trail route alternatives

Army National Guard

Site Analysis Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail

Element Occurrence: Sticky Bog Asphodel

Constraints

38

1 study1MAP area 1 MAP

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Alignment ‘A’

LENOIR

Abing

LEGEND

Blair Fork

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Mary’s Grove

VIRGINIA ST

13 E AV

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Inactive Hazardous Sites

National Register Historic District (NRHD)

Active & Inactive Landfills

NRHD Boundary

29

State Natural Heritage Data Element Occurances Plant

Local District Center Point Study List (SL)

porates the natural and built environment analysis, highAnimal Assemblage

SL and Landmark SL and Determined Eligible (DOE)

Animal

SL, DOE, and Landmark DOE NRHD Surveyed Surveyed in NRHD Site Gone Sensitive Cultural Resources

18/ 64

Natural Community

Natural Heritage Areas

Exceptional

Moderate

Very High

General

High

Unranked

30

30

Transportation

HARTLAND RD

lights a host of preliminary trail route alternatives. These Natural Heritage Dedication Zones (Johns River Game Lands)

Bike Route

Primary Zone

NCDOT Bridge Locations

Wh

SN

IPE

SS

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routes were further refined by localMillleaders to identify Cre Wetlands (NWI)

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and engage landowners. This information will serve as Streams

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45

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100-Year Floodplain

500-Year Floodplain

Natural Heritage Area: Bristol Creek Wetlands (Ranking High)

l Creek Bristo

an ongoing reference guide as alternative routes may Element Occurrence: Bog Turtle

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need to be developed due to unforeseen barriers.

35

38

Constraints

study area 4

36

Element Occurrence: Bog Turtle 48 Natural Heritage Area: Bristol Creek Wetlands (Ranking High)

Connectors

NR and Local Landmark National Register Historic District (NRHD) NRHD Boundary Local District Center Point Study List (SL) SL and Landmark SL and Determined Eligible (DOE)

Inactive Hazardous Sites Active & Inactive Landfills State Natural Heritage Data Element Occurances Plant

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Moderate General

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37

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48

52

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Lenoir to Morganton Greenway Study

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Federal & State Ownership

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A

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Public Libraries

MAP 3

Site Analysis Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail

Chesterfield Chesterfield School School

IL E

Fishing Access Parks Golf Courses

40

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Public Health Departments

Existing Trails Proposed Trails

51

BURKE/ CALDWELL LINE

ST

Hospitals

OVNHT 1/2-Mile Buffer

47

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Property Lines Duke & Crescent Properties Civic Landmarks

OVNHT & Other Recreation Overmountain Victory NH Trail

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1/2

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Foothills Regional Airport

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Alignment ‘B’

MAP 3 study area 3

MAP 4

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1/2

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GREEN

33

34

reek

19

chapter 1 MAP 1 1 study area Valmeade School

4

Very High

Existing Trails High

PublicRoads/Interstates Health Departments

Wetlands&(NWI) Federal State Ownership

Colleges and Universities

Hydric Pr ivateSoils

Waterlines

NRHD Boundary

Inactive Hazardous Sites 100-Year Floodplain

Active & Inactive Landfills 500-Year Floodplain

Study List (SL)

General

High

Unranked

NCDOT Bridge Locations

Primary Zone

Rail Roads

Buffered Zone

Roads/Interstates

11

D

Brownfield (NACCO Materials)

13

R

PE

Mary’s Grove

E AV

Blair Fork

Natural Heritage Dedication Zones (Johns River Game Lands)

NR

AR

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Hydrology

Brownfield (Bus Coating)

Streams

Google Data Center

20

10

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9

27

11

13

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MAP 1

Site Analysis 100-Year Floodplain Overmountain Victory 500-Year Floodplain National Historic Trail

23 24 25 26

ST

WE

22

Caldwell County Animal Shelter

Caldwell County Health Department

E AV

15

8

Floodway

West Lenoir Elementary

Lenoir to Morganton Greenway Study

Lenoir Downtown Historic District

Start of Inactive Rail

Unity Park & Community Gardens

2 2 studyMAP area Davenport Elementary

Caldwell Memorial Hospital

16

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MAP 3: STUDY AREA 1 SITE ANALYSIS

TH Broyhill Walking Park

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Waterbodies

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Center

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19 21

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18/ 64

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LENOIR

14 13 7

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Unity Park & Community Gardens

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National Register Historic District (NRHD)

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Williams Lenoir Caldwell MiddleMemorial School

ounty RR

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7 Downtown Lenoir Historic District

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6

T. Henry Wilson Park

6

Caldwell C

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PublicInterstates Libraries

Lenoir Grammar School

5

5

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3

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2

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Parks Primary Zone Golf Courses Buffered Zone

NCDOT Bridge Locations Hospitals

Waterlines

12

(Johns River Game Lands) Fishing Access

Bike Route Civic Landmarks

Utilities

14 13 7

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Proposed Trails Natural Heritage Dedication Zones

Cemetery

y

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Lenoir

2 2 11 JE Broyhill3 Park 4 & Belleview 1

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OVNHT &Natural Other Recreation Heritage Areas Overmountain Victory NH Trail Moderate Exceptional

Property Lines Transportation Duke & Crescent Properties

1

START OF STUDY AREA

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Natural Community

4

10

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1/2-MILE STUDY AREA

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Study List (SL)

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R

Active & Inactive Landfills

Lenoir Rotary Soccer Complex

Le

50

State Natural Heritage Data Occurances Constraints 38 Element Plant

321

Creek

‘A’

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F lair

KW AY D

Alignment NRHD Boundary

Inactive Hazardous Sites

TUDY ILE S

National Register Historic District (NRHD)

MAP 1

Brownfields

Martin Luther King Community Center

8

unty RR

NR and Local Landmark

1/2-M

LEGEND

National Register (NR) of Historic Places Site

Hazardous Sites

Williams Lenoir Middle School

Zacks

Schools Historic Sites and Ditricts

7

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Private Municipal/County Owned Properties

enwa

Federal & State Ownership

Colleges and Universities

Caldwell Co

Public Libraries

6 6

CRE

Managed Lands

oir Gre

Public Health Departments

EKW AY D

Hospitals

Fork

ANALYSIS Fishing Access Parks Golf Courses

Civic Landmarks

5

5

T. Henry Wilson Park

G re en wa y

2

Proposed Trails

3

Le no ir

Existing Trails

Property Lines Duke & Crescent Properties

3 4

1

OVNHT 1/2-Mile Buffer

Municipal Boundaries

2

2

Creek Len

20-Foot Contours

County Boundary

1

START OF STUDY AREA

OVNHT & Other Recreation Overmountain Victory NH Trail

Fork

RD

Zacks

VA LW AY

enwa

Constraints

Connectors

ir Gre

Opportunities

38

Leno

50

Alignment ‘B’

y

SITE Alignment ‘A’

Lenoir Rotary Soccer Complex

1/2-MILE STUDY AREA

study

ArEA 1 LEGEND

EXISTING CONDITIONS, ANALYSIS, AND PRELIMINARY ALIGNMENTS

Study area Opportunities 1 OPPORTUNITIES & cONSTRAINTS and Constraints: Lenoir (Map 1) OPPORTUNITIES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

Start of study area and potential trailhead Main street crossing—high public visibility Potential to extend road pavement and accommodate greenway on Valmead Street Connect to Valmead School—which may eventually be converted to apartments Factory may be amenable to using back side of lot Utilize abandoned rail line starting near Advent Circle Apartment complex connection Connect into sidewalk Potential trailhead—at crossroads (Vance and Willow Streets) Utilize undeveloped drainages in cemetery Utilize JE Broyhill Park pathways Utilize existing sidewalk on Main Street for several blocks to connect JE Broyhill Park Utilize existing sidewalk for connector Connect to Housing Authority Apartments (Vance Street Apartments) Connect to Fort Crider (OVT historic site), the OVT memorial plaque, and Old Lenoir High School/current day apartments Conversion of use of vacant warehouse buildings surrounding greenway has great economic development potential Southern Railway Freight Station—potential to convert to a farmers market Connect to existing loop path at Unity Park and Community Gardens Discussions have occurred with NCDOT about placing a pedestrian refuge island at this intersection Abandoned railroad bridge Utilize abandoned rail spur Utilize potential power line easement Bridge may have adequate shoulder to accommodate a greenway Four-way traffic signal in place but no crosswalks Abandoned rail line which Lenoir hopes to rehabilitate Connection to walking loop at Bernhardt Industries Opportunity to build trail into future development

CONSTRAINTS Steep cross slope Main street crossing Hazel Lee Street appears to have little right-of-way, making sidewalk or a trail more difficult Rail in this section can’t be used Bridge crossing necessary—unstable creek Dump site/car cemetery No sidewalk for short section of connector Bridge has limited shoulder Brownfield may cause some issues if ground disturbance occurs Ponded/wetland area Major road crossing of Hwy 18/64 and Southwest Boulevard is currently very unsuitable for pedestrian crossing

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

3

View of potential right-of-way use on Valmead Street

10

View of Belleview Cemetery where low points could be utilized for the greenway

1

View of vacant lot—potential trailhead

9

View of potential for trailhead—looking south at crossroads of Vance and Willow Streets

15

View of Lenoir High School Apartments and the historic site of Fort Crider

4

Rail in this section can not be used as factory is currently operational

9

View of potential for trailhead—looking north at crossroads of Vance and Willow Streets

17

Southern Railway Freight Station—a proposed location for a farmers market

21

Constraints

Connectors

ANALYSIS County Boundary

NCDOT Bridge Locations

Public Health Departments Public Libraries

Roads/Interstates

Managed Lands

Colleges and Universities

Waterlines

National Register (NR) of Historic Places Site

500-Year Floodplain Active & Inactive Landfills

Natural Heritage Areas

Utilities

Waterlines Sewer

Moderate

Very High

General

High

Unranked

14 13 7

Streams

Site Analysis Overmountain Victory 500-Year Floodplain National Historic Trail

ree k

ST

WE

43

15

MAParea 3 study 3

West Lenoir Elementary

Unity Park & Community Gardens

Davenport Elementary

Caldwell Memorial Hospital

16

ek

re rC

we

Lo

Lenoir Golf Course

17 Southern Railway

Lenoir High School/Fort Crider

Freight Station

cks

18

GTO

rk

D

13

Lenoir

Lenoir Mulberry Recreation Center

ek

Brownfield (NACCO Materials)

Cre

NR

IA ST

ABIN

Fo

22

18/

Za

Lenoir to Morganton Greenway Study

Lenoir Grammar School

E AV

Floodway

100-Year Floodplain

12

Lenoir

Lenoir Downtown Historic District

23

Flood Zones

321

NC Ecosystem Enhancement Easement

23

KW AY D

MAP 2

R

25

Wetlands (NWI)

Waterbodies

we rC

Brownfield (Bus Coating)

Martin Luther King Community Center

JE Broyhill Park & Belleview Cemetery

Lo

Buffered Zone Hydrology

Hydric Soils

11

42

Primary Zone

8

Gamewell 10

22

Natural Heritage Dedication Zones (Johns River Game Lands)

Williams Lenoir Middle School

9

21

Natural Community Exceptional

ork

38 18/ 64

Animal

S. LENOIR/ GAMEWELL

7

ir F

Bla

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Interstates State Roads Local Roads State and County Roads

24

Animal Assemblage

Rail Roads Roads/Interstates

39

State Natural Heritage Data Element Occurances Plant

NCDOT Bridge Locations

6 6

19

Gamewell Elementary School

Floodway

100-Year Inactive Hazardous Sites Floodplain

SL, DOE, and Landmark DOE NRHD Surveyed Surveyed in NRHD Site Gone Sensitive Cultural Resources Bike Route

41

Flood Zones

Brownfields

SL and Landmark SL and Determined Eligible (DOE)

Transportation

40

5

18

5

unty RR

Study List (SL)

20

Gamewell Middle School

AREA TUDY ILE S

Local District Center Point

Gamewell

1/2-M

NRHD Boundary

37

Streams

Hazardous Sites

National Register Historic District (NRHD)

2

32

Hydric Soils Private Municipal/County Waterbodies Owned Properties

Sewer

NR and Local Landmark

Hydrology

36

Caldwell Co

Historic Sites and Ditricts Utilities

Buffered Zone

Federal & State Ownership Wetlands (NWI)

Interstates State Roads Local Roads State and County Roads

Schools

Unranked

Natural Heritage Dedication Zones Fishing Access (Johns River Game Lands) Parks Primary Zone Golf Courses

Bike Route Rail Roads

General

High

T. Henry Wilson Park

y

Transportation

Hospitals

Very High

3

CR

Civic Landmarks

Existing Trails Proposed Trails

3 4

1

ek

wa

Property Lines Duke & Crescent Properties

Moderate

2

2

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en

Municipal Boundaries

OVNHT 1/2-Mile Buffer Exceptional

Alternative ‘A’ Has Two Options (Hwy 18/64 Vs.Lower Creek)

Lenoir Water Plant

1

START OF STUDY AREA

Animal

& Other RecreationNatural Community Overmountain Victory NHHeritage Trail Areas Natural

sC

Le

20-Foot Contours

RD

4

CRE

SL, DOE, and Landmark OVNHT DOE NRHD Surveyed Surveyed in NRHD Site Gone Sensitive Cultural Resources

Gamewell Town Hall

er

1/2-MILE STUDY AREA

Animal Assemblage

SL and Landmark SL and Determined Eligible (DOE)

County Boundary

VA LW AY

Valmeade 17 School

R

Study List (SL)

ill

Lenoir Rotary Soccer Complex

re

Element Occurances Plant

EKW AY D

Local District Center Point

Connectors

Active & Inactive Landfills

Constraints State Natural Heritage Data

38

M

Park Trail

OpportunitiesInactive Hazardous Sites

50

35

Town of

34 Gamewell

Brownfields

National Register Historic District (NRHD) NRHD Boundary

MAP 1

Hazardous Sites

G

National Register (NR) of Historic Places Site

ir

LEGEND

Historic Sites and Ditricts

no

Private Municipal/County Owned Properties

Furniture Factory

16

ir Gre

Federal & State Ownership

Colleges and Universities

NR and Local Landmark

West Caldwell High School

Managed Lands

Lenoir

w

Lo

Public Libraries

ek

re

C er

Leno

Public Health Departments

Alignment ‘B’

30

Fishing Access Parks Golf Courses

Hospitals

12 29

14

Proposed Trails

Civic Landmarks

13

31

32

Caldwell County Animal Shelter

28

33

Existing Trails

Property Lines Duke & Crescent Properties

Alignment ‘A’

15

OVNHT 1/2-Mile Buffer

Municipal Boundaries

18/ 64

Caldwell County Health Department

OVNHT & Other Recreation Overmountain Victory NH Trail

20-Foot Contours

Schools

Army National Guard

Creek

38

Element Occurrence: Sticky Bog Asphodel

Fork

Alignment ‘B’

study 2 MAParea 2

Zacks

Opportunities

y

50

enwa

Alignment ‘A’

1 1 studyMAP area

Creek

SITE LEGEND

don Abing

study

ArEA 2

MAP 4: STUDY AREA 2 SITE ANALYSIS

chapter 1

EXISTING CONDITIONS, ANALYSIS, AND PRELIMINARY ALIGNMENTS

study area 2 OPPORTUNITIES & cONSTRAINTS Opportunities and Constraints: South Lenoir/Gamewell (Map 2) OPPORTUNITIES 28 29 30 31 32

33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43

Utilize existing path and power-lines Potential use of abandoned rail bridge Abandoned rail spur Connect to exist loop trail on Caldwell County property Hwy 18/64 has significant right-of-way— approximately 150-feet total with a 42-foot wide shoulder Potential amenable landowner Connect to existing loop trail around Gamewell Park Graded dirt path exists in this area Begin of overlapping alignment with sewer line/ easement Driving range—potential partner End of sewer line/easement Signalized stop light with no crosswalks Connect to existing loop trail and schools Calico Road has a significant 80-foot right-of-way with water and sewer easements Calico Road has wooded, undeveloped corridor in this area with a 75-foot right-of-way Calico Road averages a 65-foot right-of-way and would serve many surrounding houses which lack pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure

29

View of potential use of abandoned rail bridge with Lower Creek in the Background

34

View of Gamewell Park

38

View from Rocky Road of ending of sewer line/easement

31

View of existing loop trail on Caldwell County property

37

View from Hwy 18/64 of driving range

24

View from Hwy 18/64 and Calico Road intersection

32

View of Hwy 18/64 looking north

42

View of wooded area on Calico Road

43

View of wooded area on Calico Road traveling south of Hwy 18/64

CONSTRAINTS 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

22 23 24 25

Destabilized reach of stream Tributary crossing is likely required Significant creek crossing Right-of-way has steep conditions in some areas Tree farm Quarry—conflicting land use Segment unlikely due to uninterested landowner Wetland/low lying area Alignment would leave OVT one-mile buffer here NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program Easement prohibits use of the easement (shown in green) bordering Lower Creek—verification needed to establish if easement has been finalized Home very close to creek—prohibiting greenway access on north side of creek Tree farm on both sides of Lower Creek Potentially dangerous intersection unless redesigned Intersection is non-signalized and would not be an appropriate crossing unless intersection is redesigned and signalized

23

chapter 1

Alignment ‘B’

38

Constraints

Connectors

MAParea 3 study 3

26

Proposed Trails

Managed Lands

Hazardous Sites

Inactive Hazardous Sites

Colleges and Universities

Waterlines Sewer

Historic Sites and Ditricts

National Register (NR) of Historic Places Site

Study List (SL)

SL, DOE, and Landmark DOE NRHD Surveyed Surveyed in NRHD Site Gone Sensitive Cultural Resources Transportation

Brownfields

NCDOT Bridge Locations

Active & Inactive Landfills State Natural Heritage Data Element Occurances Plant

Animal Assemblage

Natural Heritage Area: Bristol Creek Wetlands (Ranking High)

Animal Natural Community Natural Heritage Areas

Exceptional

Moderate

Very High

General

High

Unranked

re 49 37 36

47

Primary Zone

Waterbodies

Streams

Site Analysis Floodway 100-Year Floodplain Overmountain Victory 500-Year Floodplain National Historic Trail

Brownfield (Bus Coating) R

MAP 3

48

KW AY D

Hydric Soils

Bl32a

AN

Chesterfield School

Flood Zones

CH

8

Martin Luther King CA Community LDCenter W EL

L

BU R

KE

14 13 7

Johns River Game Lands

UN

TY

UN

TY

Lenoir

DR HAVEN

11

12

JE Broyhill Park & Belleview Cemetery

Foothills Lenoir Grammar School Regional Airport

ST

E AV H

OC

I NT

RD

A

Unity Park & Community Gardens

Davenport Elementary

Caldwell Memorial Hospital

16

18/

ek

re rC

we

Lo

Lenoir Golf Course

17 Southern Railway

Za

Lenoir High School/Fort Crider

Freight Station

cks

18

GTO

rk

D

13

Lenoir

Lenoir Mulberry Recreation Center

ek

Brownfield (NACCO Materials)

Cre

NR

IA ST

ABIN

Fo

24

CO

CO

Lenoir Downtown Historic District WE

West Lenoir Elementary

321

RD

GREEN

33

15

Lenoir to Morganton Greenway Study

Williams Lenoir Middle School

10

37

4 studyMAParea 4

en

TIO

9

EE

BURKE/ CALDWELL LINE

rk

o ir F

CR

Wetlands (NWI)

31

re

rC we 35

34

Hydrology

Interstates State Roads Local Roads State and County Roads

7

46 18/ 64

Buffered Zone

Rail Roads Roads/Interstates

Sewer

500-Year Floodplain

Inactive Hazardous Sites

Natural Heritage Dedication Zones (Johns River Game Lands)

Bike Route

6

T. Henry Wilson Park

6

45

Element Occurrence: Bog Turtle

5

5

100-Year Floodplain

k l Cree

SL and Landmark SL and Determined Eligible (DOE)

Streams Private Flood Zones Municipal/County Owned PropertiesFloodway

Hazardous Sites

3

unty RR

Local District Center Point

ll C ree k

Bristo

NRHD Boundary

T

Mi

AREA TUDY ILE S

National Register Historic District (NRHD)

2

SS

1/2-M

NR and Local Landmark

Hydric Soils

Waterbodies Federal & State Ownership

3 4

Caldwell Co

Schools

Managed Lands

ite

IPE

Lo

Interstates Public Health Departments State Roads Local Roads Public Libraries State and County Roads Utilities

Wh

Fishing Access Buffered Zone Parks Hydrology Golf Courses Wetlands (NWI)

SN

ek

Roads/Interstates

Hospitals

Primary Zone

2

2 1

re

Rail Roads

Civic Landmarks

Existing Trails (Johns River Game Lands) Proposed Trails

1

ekR

Natural Heritage Dedication Zones

Bike Route Property Lines NCDOT Bridge Locations Duke & Crescent Properties

30

4 30

18/ 64 START OF STUDY AREA

RD

HARTLAND RD

OVNHT 1/2-Mile Buffer

Municipal Boundaries Transportation

Valmeade School

1/2-MILE STUDY AREA

20-Foot Contours

Waterlines

VA LW AY

Animal

SL, DOE, and Landmark Natural Community DOE NRHD Natural Heritage Areas Surveyed Moderate Exceptional Surveyed in NRHD OVNHT & Other Recreation Site Gone General Very NH HighTrail Overmountain Victory Sensitive Cultural Resources High Unranked

County Boundary

Utilities

Plant Animal Assemblage

y

Constraints

Lenoir Rotary Soccer Complex

wa

38

SL and Landmark SL and Determined Eligible (DOE)

29

G

State Natural Heritage Data Opportunities Element Occurances

45

ir

50

28

rC

Connectors

Active & Inactive Landfills

we

Lo

RD

Lo we

Alignment ‘B’

Study List (SL)

H

MAP 1

Brownfields

National Register Historic District (NRHD)

AC

no

LEGEND

NR and Local Landmark

BE

Le

National Register (NR) of Historic Places Site

E

y

Historic Sites and Ditricts

OR

EKW AY D

Schools

SloanThroneburg Farm

r rC

enwa

Private Municipal/County Owned Properties

k

ee

44

ir Gre

Federal & State Ownership

Colleges and Universities

AY M

Leno

Public Libraries

Element Occurrence: Carolina Foothills Crayfish

PL

CRE

Public Health Departments

TY UN CO LL Y NT WE LD OU EC RK BU

Hospitals

CA

Fishing Access Parks Golf Courses

Civic Landmarks

Local District Center Point

aC ree

Existing Trails

Property Lines Duke & Crescent Properties

Alignment ‘A’

k

ANALYSIS

OVNHT 1/2-Mile Buffer

Municipal Boundaries

Gamewell

18/ 64

OVNHT & Other Recreation Overmountain Victory NH Trail

20-Foot Contours

County Boundary

NRHD Boundary

2 2 studyMAP area

Tuttle State Forest

27

MAP 5: STUDY AREA 3 SITE ANALYSIS

Opportunities

Creek

50

Fork

Alignment ‘A’

Zacks

SITE LEGEND

Ce li

study

ArEA 3

EXISTING CONDITIONS, ANALYSIS, AND PRELIMINARY ALIGNMENTS

study area 3 and OPPORTUNITIES & cONSTRAINTS Opportunities Constraints: Burke/Caldwell County Line (Map 3) OPPORTUNITIES 44 45 45 46

47 48 49

Potential amenable landowner—Duke Energy property Significant bridge span on Calico Road over Lower Creek may allow for a greenway underpass Significant bridge span on Antioch Road over Lower Creek may allow for a greenway underpass Excellent opportunities for habitat conservation if some portions of private lands were acquired fee simple—portions of these lands are likely undevelopable because of wetlands Official access and parking for Game Lands located at end of Putnam Street Alignment navigates drainages with less impact to sensitive natural resources Official access and parking for Game Lands on a turnout off of Hwy 18/64

44

View of potential pedestrian underpass crossing at Calico Road

35

View of Putnam Road

44

View of potential pedestrian underpass crossing at Antioch Road (looking east)

47

View of terminus of Putnam Street at official parking/access area for Johns River Game Lands

37

View of bridge over Bristol Creek on Hwy 18/64

CONSTRAINTS 26 27 28 29 30 31

32 33

34 35

36

37

Greenway unlikely in this area due to very narrow private parcels and home sites close to the creek Wetlands Sensitive cultural resource area Structures are located close to Lower Creek, making a southern alignment less viable Beginning of significant wetland areas on both sides of Lower Creek that continues through to Johns River Area of northwest side of Lower Creek is low lying and has standing water as identified in the field and via aerial analysis Area appears to be significantly disturbed based on aerial analysis Bridge crossing (~80-foot span) would be required and possibly an associated boardwalk system—the NC Wildlife Resource Commission has asked that the trail avoid their property in this area due to sensitive habitat and popularity with hunters There is significant site disturbance on this property based on aerial analysis This alignment would require a 1,600-foot section of on-road use along Lower Creek Avenue and Putnam Street—both low-traffic neighborhood streets Alignment travels through a Significant Natural Heritage, Bog Turtle habitat, and wetlands to avoid using the interior of Johns River Game Lands Bridge or boardwalk likely required (Hwy 18/64 bridge crossing for Bristol Creek could only be used to cross if a bridge attachment was used)

37

View of Bristol Creek Wetland Natural Heritage Area—looking from the bridge

Antioch Road 18/ 64

r ek we Cre o L Wetland and Floodplain Area

46 30

Area south of Antioch Road has excellent conservation opportunities but significant areas of wetlands could be impacted

Wetland and Floodplain Area

49

Official access and parking for Game Lands on a turnout off of Hwy 18/64

25

chapter 1

Alignment ‘A’

50

Opportunities

Alignment ‘B’

38

Constraints

3 studyMAP area 3

MAParea 4 study 4

ANALYSIS Property Lines Duke & Crescent Properties

Proposed Trails Fishing Access Parks Golf Courses

National Register (NR) of Historic Places Site

Animal Assemblage

55

Element Occurrence: Notched Rainbow, Seagreen Darter

Bellvue House

Animal

James House

56

Natural Community Exceptional

Moderate

Very High

General

High

Unranked

Walter Johnson Middle School

18/ 64

44 59 Charter School

61

CR

Morganton

Flood Zones

Site Analysis Overmountain Victory 500-Year Floodplain National Historic Trail

Floodway

59

ENDOFOFSTUDY STUDY AREA END AREA

Lenoir to Morganton Greenway Study

b taw

END OF STUDY AREA

46

VE TA

ES

W

15

45 59

West Lenoir Elementary

EA DY U ST E IL M 2-

ir

r

ve

i aR

Ca

EE

MAP 4

58

12

Lenoir

JE Broyhill Element Occurrence: Carolina Foothills Park & Belleview Crayfish, Robust Redhorse Cemetery Lenoir Grammar School

Water Plant

Unity Park & Community Gardens

Morganton Skeet & Trap Lenoir DowntownRange

Historic District

ek

Private- North American Ag. Preserve

Burke County Landfill

r

43

Brownfield 47 (Bus Coating)

100-Year Floodplain

60

Morganton Caldwell Dump

Davenport Elementary

18/

Memorial Hospital

16

ek

re rC

we

Lo

Lenoir Golf Course

17 Southern Railway

Za

Lenoir High School/Fort Crider

Freight Station

cks

18

GTO

rk

D

13

Lenoir

Lenoir Mulberry Recreation Center

ek

Brownfield (NACCO Materials)

Cre

NR

IA ST

ABIN

Fo

26

1/

y wa en G

re

11 14 13 7

321

ive

Cre

Streams

sR

ng

Waterbodies

hn

nti

Wetlands (NWI)

Hydric Soils

9

10

57

Fork

Hydrology

JOHNS RIVER GAME LAND

Jo

48

King Community Johns River Center 8 Game Lands

Hu

Buffered Zone

ior

Rail Roads

rk Fo

48

Martin Luther

Williams Lenoir Middle School

43

Natural Heritage Dedication Zones (Johns River Game Lands)

Primary Zone

R A

ir

Bla

Natural Heritage Areas

NCDOT Bridge Locations

Waterlines

Le

Active & Inactive Landfills State Natural Heritage Data Element Occurances Plant

rr Wa

SL, DOE, and Landmark DOE NRHD Surveyed Surveyed in NRHD Site Gone Sensitive Cultural Resources

Inactive Hazardous 500-Year Sites Floodplain

R

SL and Landmark SL and Determined Eligible (DOE)

100-Year Floodplain

KW AY D

Study List (SL)

Floodway

eenway

Local District Center Point

Brownfields

7

unty RR

NRHD Boundary

Hazardous Sites

6

reek

T. Henry Wilson Park

6

48

AREA TUDY ILE S

National Register Historic District (NRHD)

Waterbodies Private Municipal/County Streams Owned Properties Flood Zones

1/2-M

NR and Local Landmark

Federal & State Ownership Hydric Soils

River Gr

Sewer

54

er C

Creek

Waterlines

Historic Sites and Ditricts

Wetlands (NWI)

5

Caldwell Co

Utilities

Hydrology

Catawba

Colleges and Universities

Buffered Zone

3

5

Low

Zacks

Local Roads State and County Roads

Managed Lands

42

EKW AY D

Public Health Departments Interstates State Roads Public Libraries

Primary Zone

3 4

CRE

Roads/Interstates

Fishing Access Parks Golf Courses

2

41 2

r

NCDOT Bridge Locations

532

1

ive

(Johns River Game Lands)

18/ 64

1

START OF STUDY AREA

sR

Natural Heritage Dedication Zones Proposed Trails

Rail Roads

Hospitals

RD

4 1/2-MILE STUDY AREA

Animal

48

Valmeade School

52

no

Animal Assemblage

Johns River Game Lands

hn

Civic Landmarks

Utilities

VA LW AY

Existing Trails

Property Lines Transportation Duke & Crescent PropertiesBike Route

Interstates State Roads Local Roads State and County Roads

1/2

State Natural Heritage Data Element Occurances Plant

Jo

Municipal Boundaries

Roads/Interstates

Active & Inactive Landfills

y

Constraints

SL, DOE, and Landmark Natural Community DOE NRHD OVNHT & Other Recreation Natural Heritage Areas Surveyed Moderate Exceptional Overmountain Victory NH Trail Surveyed in NRHD Site Gone General Very High OVNHT 1/2-Mile Buffer Sensitive Cultural Resources High Unranked

20-Foot Contours

Bike Route

Opportunities

38

SL and Landmark SL and Determined Eligible (DOE)

County Boundary

Transportation

50

Lenoir Rotary Soccer Complex

enwa

Local District Center Point

NRHD Boundary

Inactive Hazardous Sites

Leno

Alignment ‘B’

38

R

National Register Historic District (NRHD)

EA

Brownfields

NR and Local Landmark

Alignment ‘A’

MAP 1

Hazardous Sites

ILE

National Register (NR) of Historic Places Site

39

-M

LEGEND

Historic Sites and Ditricts

UD YA R

Private Municipal/County Owned Properties

ST

Federal & State Ownership

Colleges and Universities Schools

37

50

Managed Lands

Public Libraries

ir Gre

Public Health Departments

Schools

Chesterfield School

Existing Trails

Civic Landmarks

Connectors

40

OVNHT 1/2-Mile Buffer

Municipal Boundaries

Study List (SL)

51

OVNHT & Other Recreation Overmountain Victory NH Trail

20-Foot Contours

County Boundary

Hospitals

Sewer

Element Occurrence: Bog Turtle Natural Heritage Area: Bristol Creek Wetlands (Ranking High)

Connectors

MAP 6: STUDY AREA 4 SITE ANALYSIS

SITE LEGEND

Fork

study

ArEA 4

r/ ve ss i R di ba ho w a t eR Ca Lak

EXISTING CONDITIONS, ANALYSIS, AND PRELIMINARY ALIGNMENTS

study area 4 OPPORTUNITIES & Lands cONSTRAINTS Opportunities and Constraints: Johns River Game (Map 4) OPPORTUNITIES 50

51 52 53

54

54 55

56 57 58 59 60

61

Crossing of Highway 18/64 could utilize box culverts (boxes approximately 15x9-foot) as a greenway highway underpass Alignment travels through Middleton Place neighborhood and an undeveloped drainage Opportunity to parallel Johns River Loop Road—a lightly-traveled road Current Johns River Game Land trailhead/parking area could potentially be utilized as a greenway trailhead Pedestrian bridge could be attached in the hydraulic shadow (downstream side) of current bridge to potentially lessen flood-study requirements Ample bridge clearance for greenway underpass (see related constraint #42) TDOT has proposed widening and improvements to Highway 18/64 which could incorporate in a greenway—total right-of-way is around 105-feet and northern shoulder is around 42-feet Great views of historic James House and farm Utilize edge of property on Walter Johnson Middle School—may require fencing on school property Greenway easement already recorded where proposed (green) trail is shown Potential narrow crossing Use of sewer easement that parallels the Catawba River to Highway 18/64 (starting at Riverview Apartments) City of Morganton owned property with sewer line

CONSTRAINTS 38 39 40 41 42

43 44 45 46 47

This alignment only has an on-grade road crossing option for Highway 18/64 and is not desirable Sensitive cultural resource area Alignment leaves OVT buffer temporarily Large wetland and sensitive cultural resource area— one of the most scenic views in the study area Logs jammed high up in the bridge abutments indicate recent high-water flood events indicating that a bridge pedestrian underpass could be under several feet of water Alternatives leave OVT buffer Large floodplain and wetlands may require a large bridge span Quarry adjacent to proposed alignment Sensitive cultural resource area Sensitive cultural resource area as well as significant floodplain area

50

View of potential pedestrian underpass crossing under Highway 18/64

52

View of Johns River Loop Road—with potential for parallel greenway alignment

54

View of Johns River Game Lands boat launch and bridge

51

View of undeveloped drainage in Middleton Place neighborhood

41

Large wetland adjacent to Johns River—very scenic but has sensitive resources

57

View of Walter Johnson Middle School and potential use of edge of property for alignment

38

View of Highway 18/64 (looking north)— where an on-grade crossing could occur

42

View of Johns River bridge over Hwy 18/64— images show past flooding and bridge shoulders

60

View of Riverview Apartments in Morganton (sewer easement shown at the right)

27

chapter 1

28

Chapter 2 landowner engagement

Landowner outreach and engagement was a key component of the planning process.

The environmental analysis (Chapter 1) was critical to determine physically feasible locations for trail development. However, significant portions of these routes impact private property and require landowner outreach to fully assess trail feasibility. This chapter highlights the good-faith effort to engage landowners

T h e en ga gemen t Process Identifying the Landowners Landowner Communications Landowner Workshop

throughout the planning process.

Trail Route Re-evaluation

23 ¬

!

chapter 2

O

!

!

!

identify the landowners

!

!

P

!

24 ¬

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P

!

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O

! !

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25 ¬

Feasibility Analysis

G

!

MAP 7: Landowner Database

!

26 27 2 8 2 9 31 30 32 3 3 3 4 ¬ 35

Trail alternatives were developed based upon an environmental feasibility analysis (see Chapter 1).

!

!

!

!

Landowner Database

!

!

A mailing database was created that included all property owners impacted by the preliminary trail alignment(s).

S

C

M

!

R

!

E

!

!

!

36 ! !

!

37 38 40 !

!

!

39 ¬

!

!

The tra

!

step 1: determine where the trail is feasible (CHAPTER 1).

!

¬

!

41

!

42 ¬

!

43 ¬

!

!

!

44 ¬

!

45 ¬

!

!

step 2: START A CONVERSATION WITH LANDOWNERS.

! !

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46 ¬

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52 ¬

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50 ¬

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51 ¬

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54 53 5 5 57 56 58 !

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60 61 ¬

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30

59 ¬

48 0

0.5

1

2 Miles

I

!

! !

landowner engagement video production

landowner invitation

Date: February 16, 2015

landowner communications

[Insert Landowner Name and Address

Re: Trail Planning Meeting for Landowners Dear [Insert Landowner Name]: Thanks to grant support from the National Park Service, regional community organizations and local government leaders, a plan is being developed for establishing a walking and leisure biking trail to connect from Lenoir to Morganton to Lake James.

This trail celebrates the walk made by the Overmountain Men who won a major Revolutionary War battle at Kings Mountain in 1780.

Since November 2014, the planning team has been working to identify a feasible route to construct the trail. As part of this analysis, your property has been identified as a potential location for a trail section. Without a voluntary commitment from landowners, this important trail will either be relocated or not constructed.

We would like to invite you and other landowners to discuss this project during a special meeting that will take place at [insert time and location].

An informational video can be found on the web at: www.OVTplan.com. Also, enclosed is a project Fact Sheet that further describes the project.

Please RSVP if you plan to attend the meeting by sending an email or calling using the contact information below. Thank you.

Sincerely,

A custom video, specifically produced for landowners, highlighted the story of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail and included a request for landowner participation.

Web Portal The project website, OVNHTplan.com, provides information about the planning process and features the landowner outreach video.

Eric Woolridge Consultant Project Manager Destination by Design Planning Phone: 828.386.1866 Email: eric@DbDplanning.com

Destination by Design Planning 815 W. King Street, NC 28607

web portal

Video Production

Landowner Invitation Formal letters were sent to all landowners directing them to the website and requesting their attendance at a special meeting.

31

chapter 2

landowner workshop Video Showing After signing in, the landowner workshop began with a viewing of the custom video.

Focus Group Focus groups were organized according to various geographic areas throughout the study area. Landowners were able to ask questions about their specific property and the associated trail alignment.

Sentiment Card The meeting concluded with landowners noting their level in Victor y Overmounta of willingness to provide a trail easement via the yLandowner rve Interest Su Landowner Interest Survey. __________ __________ __________ r Plan ic Trail Maste ES

al Histor Nation L E NO I R

in Victor y Overmounta il Master Plan

ic Tra National Histor L E NO

LAK IR • MOR GANTON •

Landowner

E JA

M

ES

rvey Interest Su

___

__

_________

____

__________

__ er ________

Phone Numb

_

__________

________ __________

______

Email ______

___

________ __________

__________

__ __________

public viding for the interest for pro your level of Please share ) ow trail. (check bel e ted at this tim Ο Not interes r discussions welcome furthe and ted interes Ο Somewhat ted Ο Very interes

32

JAM

_____ __________

__________

__________

__________

___

__________

__________

__________

__ Address____

__________

__________

__________

__ Address____

KE

____

Name ______

______

__________

__________

________ Name ______

• MORGANTON • LA

___

__________

__________

__ er ________

Phone Numb

__

__________

Email ______

_____

________ __________

public viding for the interest for pro your level of Please share ow) trail. (check bel e ted at this tim Ο Not interes cussions me further dis ted and welco res inte hat Ο Somew ted Ο Very interes

landowner engagement

on march 10, 2015, 23 landowners attended the landowner workshop at the caldwell county government center.

A similar landowner meeting was held for the Lake James to Morganton sister OVNHT plan in Burke County on March 5, 2015. The photos seen here are from both events.

33

chapter 2 90

18

K CREE ASY

321

R U

EK

LENOIR ER

W LO

N

DO

G IN AB

“Landowner Sentiment” was helpful for determining the preferred alignment and was included as a component of the final map series (Chapter 4).

SPA IN HO

Revise Trail Alignments

K EE R C

EE CR K

SC

LO W

CA

SO UT HW

LER

ER

CR

EE

K

GAMEWELL MIL

LD WE LL BU CO RK UN EC TY OU NT Y

RE

EK

321 64

HN

JO

including the natural 181

LEGEND

IVE

SR R

environment, the built

PREFERRED OVT ROUTE

W AR

RI

were used to determine

PROPOSED TRAIL

LANDOWNER SENTIMENT JOHNS RIVER GAME LANDS

YES NO

WIL

CR

E

N

POSITIVE NO RESPONSE

EK

MORGANTON

34

EXISTING TRAIL

RIDOR OR C

RHODHISS LAKE

SO

N

FO

RK

the preferred trail alignment (chapter 4).

OR

1/2

landowner sentiment,

M IL E

environment, and

E CR

EST BLVD

18

a combination of factors,

Map 8: Landowner Sentiment

trail route re-evaluation

GRE

0

1

2

4 MI.

trail character and design guidelines

Chapter 3 trail character & design guidelines

This chapter provides design details for various trail types and signage and offers insight for incorporating social media.

Between Lenoir and Morganton exists a diverse natural and built environment. Specific trail types must be applied throughout the corridor to ensure minimal maintenance and the best user experience.

I n t h is c h a pt er

This chapter defines six trail types and illustrates their transitions along the preferred trail alignment as fully described in the subsequent chapter.

C. Signage and Wayfinding

A. Trail Types B. Trail Profile D. Social Media Marketing

A specific theme is presented for signage, wayfinding, and trail support facilities. This chapter concludes with recommendations for using social media to market the trail and its history.

35

chapter 3

trail types

s

ix trail types are proposed along the preferred alignment. A specific trail type is proposed according to its surrounding environment, whether it's located within a rural or urban area, and the opportunity to create a meaningful user experience.

MILE MARKER FENCING TO MARK PRIVATE PROPERTY BOUNDARY

3’ SHOULDER

30’ PREFERRED BUFFER TO RIVER TO PROTECT WATER QUALITY

10’ PAVED ASPHALT

3’ NATURAL

8’ PAVED

2’ SHOULDER

10’ NATURAL SURFACE RAIL TRAIL

2’ STRIP

3’ SHOULDER

2’ SHOULDER

20% SLO

TRAIL LONGITUDINAL SLOPE SHOULD BE NO GREATER THAN 1/2 OF HILLSIDE SLOPE,

TOTAL RAIL BED APPROX. 16’ WIDE

rail trail

typical greenway

dual tread

10' natural surface

10' paved asphalt

8' paved asphalt & 3' natural surface

User Group: Multi-use

User Group: Multi-use

User Group: Multi-use

Material: Natural surface of crushed gravel fines

Material: Paved Asphalt

Preferred Width: 10'

Preferred Width: 10'

Material: Paved asphalt & natural surface of crushed gravel fines

Average Construction Cost: $40/ln. ft.

Average Construction Cost: $90/ln. ft.

Preferred Easement Width: Former Rail ROW

Preferred Easement Width: 50'

Minimum Easement Width: Former Rail ROW

Minimum Easement Width: 20'

Preferred Width: 8' paved & 3' natural surface Average Construction Cost: $80/ln. ft.

Preferred Easement Width: 50' Minimum Easement Width: 25' *Note: The 3' natural surface could deviate from the paved trail, requiring a separate trail easement.

36

PE

trail character and design guidelines

GUARD RAIL

2’-3’ SHOULDER

3:1 MAX CROSS

8’ PAVED ASPHALT

2’-3’ SHOULDER

2’-3’ CLEARED

8’ 5’ NATURAL SURFACE

2’-3’ CLEARED

ncdot side path

dual-use path

wetland trail

8' paved asphalt

8' natural surface

boardwalk or geosynthetic

User Group: Multi-use

User Group: Hikers and Bikers

User Group: Hikers

Material: Paved asphalt

Material: Crushed gravel fines

Preferred Width: 8'

Preferred Width: 5'

Material: Wooden boardwalk or geosynthetic (crushed gravel fines placed in honeycomb structure)

Average Construction Cost: $120/ln. ft.

Average Construction Cost: $60/ln. ft.

Preferred Easement Width: 25'

Preferred Easement Width: 50'

Minimum Easement Width: 25'

Minimum Easement Width: 10'

Note: Trail to be approved in accordance with NCDOT encroachment agreement.

Preferred Width: 8' Average Construction Cost: $140/ln. ft.

Preferred Easement Width: 50' Minimum Easement Width: 25'

37

chapter 3

trail type profile

t

here are nine (9) trail type transitions proposed along the preferred trail route, which extends approximately 20 miles. The Trail Type Profile identifies the transition location, along with associated length, for each trail type.

EAD D @ H L I A s A iit on FORK TR D TRAILHE s LAIR OSE n a r OSED B F PROP t l i PROP TH O a r t RT I. NOR STA 1/8 M

TYPICAL GREENWAY

10 FT. PAVED ASHPALT

RAIL TRAIL

10 FT. NATURAL SURFACE

DUAL TREAD

8 FT. ASPHALT, 3 FT. NATURAL SURFACE

NCDOT SIDE PATH

8 FT. PAVED ASPHALT

ST TRE

LE

DGE I R B

@H

AY W H IG

R 18 C

NG. I S OS

N

ER ENT

1 AY W H HIG

.

OW R 4 8/6

EXI

T

6 18/ Y WA H G HI

.

OW R 4

CE N E FLU N O C

2.6 1.8

4.8 1 0.7

2 0.3

WETLAND TRAIL

2.2

DUAL-USE PATH

8’ NATURAL SURFACE

existing trails

38

0.05 mile section @ Catawba gov. center

2

0.2 mile section @ gamewell park

N

0.5

BOARDWALK OR GEOSYNTHETIC

1

O

A USB H F

KA E E R DC

matchline

trail types

RD. T EN ADV

approx. distance in miles

N

ENC U L F CO N

EO

US FH

KA E E R DC

O DL

K REE C R WE

BAN

E

HN O J R NTE

ER

IV SR

ELA M GA

ND S B AW T A DC E S O

DGE I R RB

E

IV AR

P

PRO

R RG E V I AR B W ATA CCESS C ING ORD A T S EXI CKY F END @ RO

AY W N EE

EXHIBIT 2: TRAIL TYPE PROFILE

trail character and design guidelines

matchline

1.4

2.2 5.5

approx. distance in miles 39

chapter 3

signage and wayfinding

t

he OVNHT signage family provides for a modern rustic theme and incorporates materials consisting of metal, rock, and concrete. The signage family serves as a template and can be altered and further refined depending on local preferences and specific site needs and opportunities.

Trailhead

Trailhead

Monument Sign

40

Trailhead ID

Break-away sign for use along NCDOT Roads

M

trail character and design guidelines

Trailhead

way sign e along T Roads

Map Kiosk

Spur Trail ID to Historical Site

Confidence Marker 41

chapter 3

social media: THE NEW WORD OF MOUTH #Trail2Victory

EXHIBIT 3:SOCIAL MEDIA

t

rail users should be encouraged to utilize social media to share their experiences with their "friends" and "followers." Special signage along the trail will signal users to consider posting pictures of themselves or their friend group as the walk or ride bikes along the trail. In addition, special props and features should be developed during the final design phase. After all, who can market this destination-quality trail better than the trail users themselves? Let's take advantage of social media -- the new word of mouth.

The proposed official hashtag for the OVNHT is "Trail2Victory." The use of this hashtag will allow local tourism leaders to curate local photos and content that can be shared on websites and re-posted through other social media platforms.

#findyourpark

lenoir, nc

Find Your Park is the official centennial campaign of the National Park Service (NPS). The NPS is encouraging National Park enthusiasts to use the hashtag "findyourpark" when posting to social media. The OVNHT can help continue this campaign for years to come by encouraging the use of this hashtag at unique locations along the trail.

"Find Your Park" is the official centennial campaign of the National Park Service (NPS). The NPS is encouraging National Park enthusiasts to use the hashtag "findyourpark" when posting to social media.

42

trail users should be encouraged to utilize social media to share their experiences with their "friends" and "followers."

56 likes Amazing bridge on the #trail2victory here in @visitlenoir. #findyourpark #lenoirnc

Chapter 4 recommendations

This chapter serves as the heart of the Lenoir to morganton OVNHT master plan.

I n t h is c h a pt er A. About the Planning Section Maps B. Planning Section Descriptions

chapter 4 ASY GRE

90

18

1 2

GD IN

AB

SPA IN HO

K CREE

321

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LENOIR

EE

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64

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LO W

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MAP 9: PLANNING SECTIONS

planning sections

EST BLVD

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321

6 64 18

7

planning SECTIONS: The 20 mile

RI

OR

1/2

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M IL E

R

IVE

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9

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RIDOR OR C

JOHNS RIVER GAMELANDS

RHODHISS LAKE

181

WIL

CR

E

SO

N

EK

MORGANTON

study area from Lenoir to Morganton is divided into nine (9) planning sections.

The geographic extent of each section includes a beginning and ending terminus that features a key asset or significant connectivity point for the trail. Many of the planning sections represent project areas that can be developed independently over time, providing a logical method for implementation as landowner willingness, funding, and other opportunities arise.

THE 20 MILE STUDY AREA FROM LENOIR TO MORGANTON IS DIVIDED INTO NINE (9) PLANNING SECTIONS; THIS CHAPTER IS ORGANIZED ACCORDINGLY. 44

FI W AT ER

TER WA

E FILT

R

PL

WALTER JOHNSON MIDDLE

NT A

#

CITY OF MORGAN Pedestrian CrossingTON JURISDICTION

VALLEY VIEWVIEW ST VALLEY

#

MAJOR BRIDGE

#

MINOR BRIDGE/ CULVERT

LANDOWNER SENTIMENT

Field

3

FORK RIOR WAR

POSITIVE

18

each planning section is

NO RESPONSE

2

anchored by a map that 14

Catawba Bridge Crossing

54

DR

OA KR ID GE

KI RK

00

SE

Y

landowner sentiment.

DR

0.15 0.15

IN

V

EN RD0.3 0.3

EA

Miles Miles

11 in in == 0.2 0.2 miles miles

R

Each planning section is anchored by a map that highlights proposed trail routes, trail features, and landowner sentiment.

The proposed routes are identified as either preferred, alternate, or spur. These trail alignments are the result of extensive analysis, including environmental feasibility, landowner willingness, and insights provided by local government and local trail development leaders.

Noted trail features include the physical infrastructure and facilities that support the proposed trail. These features are highlighted along the preferred route and provide critical information for developing an estimate of probable cost for each section. These features include trailheads and crossings associated with either a road or water feature. Trailheads will provide

1/4

1/2 MI.

NC NCOneMap, OneMap,NC NCCenter Center for for Geographic Geographic Information Information and andAnalysis, Analysis,NC NC 911 911Board Board

for parking and trail user orientation. Road crossings indicate the need to provide for traffic calming measures and appropriate signage for both trail users and motorists. Major bridges indicate a significant stream or river crossing that requires a bridge greater than 20 feet in length. A minor bridge/culvert demonstrates the need to hcross a relatively small stream; at this broad level of planning, it remains uncertain whether a small bridge or culvert is necessary.

quick facts Each planning section begins with a “quick facts” exhibit. This information includes the trail distance, vicinity map trail type (see Chapter 4: Design Guidelines), and key features and assets associated with each section. Also, blair fork trailhead an Estimate of main street trailhead Probable Cost is provided, for total length: trail type: which further Estimated Cost: details are propoints of interest: vided in the appendix.

90

1

2

3

CA

LD W BU ELL RK E C COUN 6 OU T NT Y Y

7

5

4

18

321

LENOIR

64

GAMEWELL

321

64

18

8

E

about the pl anning section maps

0

OR C

RIDOR

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D RE OE OHR SHS

1/2

52111 14444331 44000000 1

¯

DR NORTHRID THRIDGEGE NOR

IND Y EP SE EN(Public Land) Narrow51 Crossing RtoK Right of Way, Maintains Good Proximity to Corridor DE NC KI ET RL

53

routes, trail features, and N

GRACE RIDGE RRETIREMENT IDGE SIDE COMMUNITY T ER

i

VICT VO ICRTYO TRRYL

& 15

49

DE

O SI

' 22

EXISTING CATAWBA RIVER GREENWAY & ROCKY FORD ACCESS

50

highlights proposed trail

AR

N

Trailhead

RIVER

RD

E

BA W A T CA

RL RT IVE of the Better Crossing Spots (suspension?)

Narrow Bend R One L AI TR ER V Sewer Easement Parallels Most RofI the Extent of the Catawba River to Hwy 64 DR OD 48 47 O W H RC BI

VI NE

TE EX

N

46Large Floodplain (Abutments/rise)

400 0 1S5H 9A 31D1O SW HA L ID NO EW DRL IN

CLU

AY W

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16

BD

VE Greenway Easement Recorded On This Property RG Warrior Fork Bridge RE EN

LEN 2O0I6R 0R 00D6 41 LE NO 1 IR

RI

NO

206 0 00 6 41 1

AT AW BA

recommendations

YES

64

9

JOHNS RIVER GAME LANDS

181

LENOIR >> MORGANTON: by the numbers

20 11 23 15 54 $16.8M

>>

TRAIL MILES

>>

trailheads

MORGANTON

1.0 mile

Rail Trail

$873,820.00

>> >>

road crossings

>> >>

minor bridges/ culverts

major bridges

Blair Fork Trailhead

Valmead Basic School Temporary Trailhead

Main Street Trailhead

APPROX. cost

45

chapter 4

section 1 90

1

vicinity map

2 3

CA

LD W BU ELL RK E C COUN 6 OU T NT Y Y

7

5

4

18 321

LENOIR

GAMEWELL 321

64 18

64

Proposed Trails From the north, the preferred trail route, which extends approximately 1.0 mile, begins at the proposed Blair Fork Trailhead, which takes advantage of property expected to be deeded to Caldwell County Pathways, Inc. The route then continues south along Creekway Drive before extending to the east and reaching the abandoned railway and the proposed Advent Trailhead. The trail remains on the abandoned railway until reaching the proposed Main Street Trailhead and southern terminus of the planning section.

1/2

M IL E

8

9

RIDOR OR C

JOHNS RIVER GAME LANDS

181

MORGANTON

blair fork trailhead main street trailhead total length: trail type(s):

1.0 miles

Rail Trail

Estimated Cost:

Typical Greenway

$873,820

points of interest:

Blair Fork Trailhead

Creekway Drive Crossing

Valmead Basic School

Advent Trailhead

Main Street Trailhead

An alternate route is proposed to extend to the north and then east of the Thomasville Furniture Plant before reaching the abandoned railway. The abandoned railway through this facility would be ideal for trail development, but has been deemed unfeasible as long as the plant operates in its current manner. It will be difficult to meet ADA requirements along the Elizabeth Street section of this route. Also proposed is a spur trail to link the Blair Fork Trailhead to Valmead School.

01

trail users. While the Blair Fork property is expected to be deeded to Caldwell County Pathways, Inc., the Main Street Trailhead is noted more generally. Because of the abandoned 02 railway’s intersection with Main Street, this location will naturally attract trail users.

The Advent Trailhead serves a unique purpose: to provide a terminus should the trail north of this proposed trailhead not be developed at the time of opening the abandoned railway to trail users. The most challenging area of this planning section includes the area from Blair Fork Trailhead to 03 Advent Trailhead; this trail section does not utilize the abandoned railway. For this reason, various trail easements and two bridges must be developed. This portion of trail could take significant time and expense to implement, thus creating the need for another trailhead along Advent Road should this entire planning section not be developed within a single project.

Trail Features This planning section includes three (3) trailheads, two (2) major bridges, and five (5) road crossings.

photos: (1) The preferred route will not be able to utilize the portion of abandoned rail that runs directly through

Trailheads The proposed Blair Fork and Main Street Trailheads serve as the northern and southern terminus of the planning section, respectively. Each of these trailheads will provide for parking and signage to inform and organize

46

Thomasville Furniture. (2) This vacant property could be used as the future location of Blair Fork Trailhead. (3) The Advent Trailhead is proposed south of Thomasville Furniture.

PARK UN

HO PE

ADVENT TRAILHEAD

NT

ANCE

LL

#

MAJOR BRIDGE

#

MINOR BRIDGE/ CULVERT

W0O O

¯

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WA Y

0.125

0.25 Miles

EN

POSITIVE

SH

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MAIN STREET TRAILHEAD V

RAAN NKK IN IN

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YES

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LANDOWNER SENTIMENT

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OXW O O OOD D

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OLINAA

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recommendations

ON

1 in = 0.1 miles

NO RESPONSE

L ITA

P OS

H 911 Board NC OneMap, NC Center for Geographic Information and Analysis, NC

47

chapter 4

TRAILHEAD

B L A I R F O R K

creekway drive gateway existing

48

e

xplore opportunities to repurpose the existing railroad signaling infrastructure to notify motorists of the trail crossing while creating a bold gateway entrance. The crossing will be enhanced by providing a pedestrian activated rapid flash beacon and refuge island.

Exhibit 4: Creekway Drive Crossing

make a statement @

recommendations Crossings

There are six (6) road crossings. The Creekway Drive crossing (#1) is the most significant and crosses five traffic lanes (See Exhibit 1: Creekway Drive Gateway). Cross04 ings #2-#5 are all minor roads that access Lenoir neighborhoods. Crossing #6 at Main Street will be highly visible and can function as gateway to downtown (See Exhibit 2: Main Street Crossing).

Exhibit 5: Main Street Crossing and Trailhead

This planning section notes two (2) major bridge crossings. Bridge #1 crosses Blair Fork and Bridge #2 crosses Long Branch. Both of these bridges are north of the proposed Advent Trailhead and could ultimately be avoided provided access is ever achieved through Thomasville Furniture.

main street crossing and trailhead existing

05

T

he Main Street crossing serves as an opportunity to improve the aesthetic image of the surrounding neighborhood, a goal identified within the North Main Street Small Area Plan developed by the Lenoir Planning and Community Development Department.

photos: (4) Several minor road crossings will be required through Lenoir neighborhoods. (5) Significant erosion was observed along Long Branch where a major bridge will be required.

49

chapter 4

section 2 90

1

vicinity map

18 321

2 3

CA

LD W BU ELL RK E C COUN 6 OU T NT Y Y

7

5

4

LENOIR

64

GAMEWELL 321

64 18

8 1/ 2M

IL

IDOR

9

ORR EC

JOHNS RIVER GAME LANDS

181

MORGANTON

main street trailhead unity park total length: trail type: Estimated Cost: points of interest:

Main Street Trailhead

Downtown Lenoir

Fort Crider

Proposed Arts District

Unity Park & Community Gardens

1.5 Miles Rail Trail

Proposed Trails From the north, the preferred trail route, which extends approximately 1.5 miles, begins at the Main Street Trailhead, skirts the edge of downtown Lenoir, and ends at Unity Park. The trail utilizes the abandoned railway throughout the entire length of the planning section. A spur trail – which primarily utilizes the city’s existing sidewalk network – is proposed through the heart of Downtown Lenoir 06 and to connect the historic Fort Crider marker .

Trail Features Trailheads This planning section begins at the proposed Main Street Trailhead discussed in the previous section. The other trailhead identified within this section, Unity Park, cur-

rently provides for parking and serves as a community garden and public open space area.

Crossings There are six (6) road crossings identified within this section. Crossing #6 at Main Street is highlighted in the previous section (See Exhibit 2: Main Street 08 Crossing, page 49). Crossings #7-#11 highlight trail intersections with primarily local roads. College Avenue (Crossing #11) does serve a relatively high volume of traffic and will require significant design atten09 tion to ensure trail user and motorist safety. This intersection is also adjacent to the old train depot, which is a central component of the proposed “arts district.”

$361,440

photos: (6) Fort Crider, located at the former Lenoir High

School, served as a campground for militiamen on September 29, 1780. (7) Unity Park currently provides for parking, community garden space, and is an important asset worthy of connection. (8 & 9) Several crossings (#9-11) are located close to the proposed Arts District.

07 50

recommendations

LK

VAIDEN

OIR

IN

MAP 11: PLANNING SECTION 2

N ND E LI

EK RE KC OR

ZA CK SF

O

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TRAILS PREFERRED TRAIL ROUTE

MEADOW ALTERNATE TRAIL ROUTE

EXISTING LOCAL TRAIL PROPOSED LOCAL TRAIL

TRAIL FEATURES IVE

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EE

CR

NO POSITIVE NO RESPONSE

R

EE

GR

51

Exhibit 6: Get Down @ the Depot

chapter 4

Get down @ the Depot existing

52

T

he old rail depot could serve as a public market space and catalyst for revitalizing this former industrial area of Lenoir.

1780 BREWERY

Exhibit 7: Brewing Up Investment

recommendations

brewing up investment existing

N

orth Carolina’s new public-private partnership (P-3) laws could be employed to attract specific investments that align with City of Lenoir revitalization goals (see Appendix A6: Public-Private Partnership).

53

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section 3 90

1

vicinity map

18 321

2 3

CA

5

LD W BU ELL RK E C COUN 6 OU T NT Y Y

4

LENOIR

64

GAMEWELL 321

64 18

7

Proposed Trails From the north, the preferred trail route, which extends approximately 2.4 total miles, begins at Unity Park and continues along the abandoned railway before crossing Highway 18. From here, the trail will utilize the former railroad trestle bridge before reaching the Lenoir sewer easements that extend to Fairview Drive along the south side of Lower Creek. The trail type for this section will include a multi-use paved trail with a natural surface side path.

8 1/ 2M

IL

IDOR

ORR EC

JOHNS RIVER GAME LANDS

9 181

MORGANTON

unity park Caldwell county gov. center total length: trail type:

2.4 Miles

Dual Tred

Estimated Cost:

Rail Trail

From Fairview Drive to the Southwest Boulevard underpass at Complex Street, the trail will take advantage of another abandoned section of railway. Immediately after 10 crossing Complex Street, the trail route continues slightly north after passing a dramatically unstable section of Lower Creek that is in need of stream restoration (See Exhibit 11: Restore the Stream, Realize the Dream, page 59). This planning section concludes at the Caldwell County Government Center workplace walking loop.

$1,215,3000

points of interest:

Unity Park & Community Gardens

Highway 18 Crossing & Signage

Trail Features

#Trail2Victory Bridge

Trailheads

Southwest Blvd. Underpass

Lower Creek Revitalization and Observation Deck

Caldwell County Government Center

Trailheads are proposed at Unity Park and the Caldwell County Government Center, both areas which currently provide significant public parking.

Crossings Proposed within this section are four (4) road crossings, three (3) major bridges, and five (5) minor bridges/culverts.

The Highway 18 crossing is significant not only in regards to vehicular traffic, but also for trail visibility and branding (see Exhibit 8: Highway 18 Crossing, page 56). Virginia Street and Fairview Drive serve as collector roads and as such will require appropriate pedestrian detectors for motorists. The Complex Street crossing must appropriately manage large truck traffic accessing the Broyhill Furniture Plant.

From the north, the first bridge located in the planning section (#3) is the abandoned railroad trestle bridge to be repurposed for the trail. The trestle bridge also provides a location for connecting Lenoir’s programmed Lower Creek trail that extends from the north via the Google Data Center. A new pedestrian bridge is proposed on the west side of the existing vehicular bridge at the Fairview Road Crossing. The last major bridge (#5) in this section, which crosses Greasy Creek, is located on property owned by Caldwell County.

photos: (10) The preferred trail route will utilize Lenoir sewer easements along the southern side of Lower Creek. (11) The

11

Caldwell County Government center has an existing walking loop and will provide for significant trailhead parking.

54

4400 0000 1144 2255 1133 4000193313

VIRGINIA 50000905133 VIRGINIA 500009051 VIRGINIA

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MAP 12: PLANNING SECTION 3

K EE

OVERLOOK OVERLOOK ERLOOK OV

CR N W

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SPAINH SP OUR CR ASp INain Hho O EE U ur R CrC eeR k EEKK

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EX M PL CO

PREFERRED TRAIL ROUTE ALTERNATE TRAIL ROUTE

EXISTING LOCAL TRAIL PROPOSED LOCAL TRAIL

TRAILHEAD CROSSINGS

#

ROAD

#

MAJOR BRIDGE

#

MINOR BRIDGE/ CULVERT

HHAA WK W K 0

1/16

1/8

1/4 MI.

N

YES

¯

0

NO

0.125

0.25 Miles

POSITIVE

1 in = 0.1 NO RESPONSE

miles

OV ERLO OK

N COON ALLC FFA

RRE ED D

IICC EEIN CNE HHNOOH UOURUR R

G

R

Y

OLODLD MM OORRG GA N NTTO ONN

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IS

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R

W LO Existing Rail Track

A

ER

FURNITURE INDUSTRIES

H

EXK PLEE M R CO C

LEGEND

LANDOWNER SENTIMENT

5 Lower Creek-Tributary Crossing #11 BROYHILL AYR AR NN OIO SISI VVI

OVT TRAIL TO CONNECT WITH EXISTING WALKING LOOP

Significant Creek Crossing

DD AALL ERR 3 ME 31 EEM 93 VD01 BL00 T 4 ES HW

36 6

UT STO

35 7

CENTER

TRAILS

4000 11 4513

15 Potential Bridge to Use?

Trailhead

16

IEW IRV FA

Tributary Crossing Needed Pedestrian Crossing 5 De-Stabilized Reach of Stream

H AR R IS BU R G

TRAIL FEATURES

ES

M EL

EL V I E V W IE W

PROPOSED TRAIL ROUTE TO FOLLOW ABANDONED RAIL

3

PROPOSED TRAIL ROUTE TO FOLLOW SEWER EASEMENT

14

HW UT

M

HHO

37

k ree

SPUR TRAIL

Existing Path/Powerlines

4

EN AV H N LY

EEK R CR GOOGLE DATA Readapted Trussle Bridge

2 39

SO

3 41 06 00 0 20

R

40

rC we Lo

Pedestrian Crossing

13Pedestrian Crossing

Abandoned Rail Trestle (Lenoir Hopes to Rehabilitate) End of Powerlines

4

12

3 451

FAIRVALUE SHOPPING CENTER

DUAL TREAD TRAIL TRANSITIONS TO 8’ PAVED ASPHALT TRAIL IN R.O.W.

EERR OVV OO

LVD

TO N G AN BERNHARDT MOR FURNITURE Ponded/Wetland Area Begin of Powerlines WORKPLACE Four-way Signal- No crosswalks 1 FITNESS TRAIL

38 3

PROGRAMMED TRAIL WILL CONNECT TO EXISTING GREENWAY @ LENOIR MULBERRY REC. CENTER

18

WE Utilize Existing Rail Spur LO

ON B GANT

Pedestrian Crossing

U

50 00 09 03 13 64

BERNHARDT FURNITURE

OR NM

18

CALDWELL COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER

TRAIL TRAINSITIONS FROM 10’ NATURAL SURFACE RAIL TRAIL TO DUAL TREAD

FOOD LION SHOPPING CENTER

Ponded/Wetland Area

R

EE NDD UUN

11 000 4IA GIN

64

C

N WN OOW D D R

R EEER RE GGR

VIR

L

SIS VVI LY CLY

CAROLINA PRIME

W W EW VIIIEE V RV AIIR FFA

NN RRN R BA BAA EDB RD D REE R

A

E ELLLLE SE OS RO R

EN

N EN EE RE GR G

GRE

EK RE Y CrR EkEK REAS C C ee

G reSaY A sy GREG

M EMM HEE H CH YYC OOLLLY PPO P RI

RO

SS GS G ING NNIIN NNN JEN JJEE

D

IN D U ST LENOIR IR N INDUSTRIAL IAU D PARK LS T

A BR

HA

K K OK OO RO R O BR EEB B E GG ED D G ED E

R PE RR E A RHP

T SSTT S RREEE CCR C

D RD O ORR FO KFF CCKK ROOC RRO W W AATT SS OO NN

Powerline easement

NNXX LY LY

IR NOOIR EN TT LLE WWEESS

RR OOC CKK W WE ELLL L

D RD OR DFFO D AD RA OR BR B DF

13 0513 1405 0014 4000 40

RAAA R R M MAA A AM TA TT

CCKKK AC BBAA UTTT OOUU O

MO OOO RR EE

UNITY PARK TRAILHEAD

RD

FO

AD BR

Z UTTZ LLU

CALDWELL COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER

1133 1100 1133 0000 4400

UNITY PARK

S

BU

M LU CO

Y REALT

SECTION 3

Unity Park UNITY PARK to County Gov't Building TO COUNTY GOV'T

ABINGTON

EL C H AP

40 00 13 09 13

BROOKDAL E

recommendations

NC OneMap, NC Center for Geographic Information and Analysis, NC 911 Board

55

Exhibit 8: Highway 18 Crossing

chapter 4

highway 18 crossing existing

56

t

he Highway 18 Crossing will be enhanced by providing a pedestrian activated rapid flash beacon and refuge island. This crossing provides a link to the historic trestle bridge (page right), which serves as the southern terminus of the rail trail.

Exhibit 9: #trailtovictory Bridge

recommendations

#Trail2victory bridge existing existing

n

otable features must be developed along the trail that are both functional and attractive. Trail users will be explicitly encouraged to use social media to share photos using #Trail2Victory.

lenoir, nc

56 likes Amazing bridge on the #trail2victory here in @visitlenoir. #findyourpark #lenoirnc

57

Exhibit 10: Southwest Blvd. Underpass

chapter 4

southwest blvd. underpass existing

t

he Complex St. crossing and Southwest Blvd. underpass provides for a unique environment that can help further define the trail's character. A spur trail from this location will provide users an opportunity to learn about the proposed Lower Creek stream restoration project (page right).

58

Exhibit 11: Restore the Stream, Realize the Dream

recommendations

#TRAILTOVICOTRYK #FINDYOURPARK

restore the stream, realize the dream existing

A

section of Lower Creek, located southwest of Complex Street, is unstable, providing an opportunity for stream restoration and environmental education. Such enhancements provide an opportunity to leverage grant funds from a variety of sources. The result: a destination-quality experience.

59

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2 3

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7

5

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64

4 GAMEWELL 321

Trail Features

IL

IDOR

1/ 2M

The only road crossing is located at Old Morganton Road, which provides vehicular access into a local neighborhood and the Caldwell County Government Center.

18

ORR EC

JOHNS RIVER GAME LANDS

181

MORGANTON

Caldwell county gov. center gamewell park total length: trail type:

0.9 Miles

Existing Gamewell Park Asphalt

Trail

Estimated Cost:

The preferred trail route extends approximately 0.9 miles and connects the workplace walking loop at the Caldwell County Government Center to the Gamewell Park walking loop. Due to landowner issues and other environmental challenges, local trail and government leaders wanted to establish this trail section along Highway 18.

Local officials will work with NCDOT to secure an approriate encroachment agreement for the trail section.

Proposed within this section is one (1) road crossing and five (5) minor bridges/culverts.

64

8

9

Proposed Trails

Trailheads Trailheads are proposed at the Caldwell County Government Center and Gamewell Park, both which currently provide sufficient public parking.

Crossings

NCDOT Side Path

13

$489,020

points of interest:

Caldwell County Government

Center

Gamewell Park

12

photos: (12 & 13) Proposed trailheads at Caldwell County Government Center and Gamewell Park have existing public parking lots.

60

recommendations

MM EELL VVIE EW W (42-Ft. of Shoulder) Pedestrian Crossing Hwy 64 Has Signficant ROW: Approx. 150-Ft. of IROW

'

#

16

ROW Has Steeply Sloped Conditions In Some Areas

OLLD O D MO OLM RG DO R GAN MO RGA TTO AN O NT N ON N

64

ek

36

35

Significant Creek Crossing

6

5 &

Lower Creek-Tributary Crossing #11

OVT TRAIL TO CONNECT WITH EXISTING WALKING LOOP

M

O

RG A N

TO

N

Existing Rail Track

34

8

BROYHILL FURNITURE INDUSTRIES

33

Cr E Ke

Tree Farm

9

LEGEND

ER OW ECRRE LCoEK we R Er

413

BBBRR U RU USSSH H HYYY

TRAILS PREFERRED TRAIL ROUTE

LO LW

4000 140

XEXX EE PLLL M PP O MM CCCOO

BBEEEE C BC EH EH RAANN CEE HRE R AN DDD EE RSSOO ERR NN SON

AA INAGD BB IN O GbD ingO dN oNn C CrR C eE R eEkEEK K

18

7

Trailhead Connect To Existing Path Loop

CONNECT TO EXISTING GAMEWELL PARK TRAIL LOOP

W

ALTERNATE TRAIL ROUTE

IE

GGRR AANN GRDD AVNVI I EWW DEV

SPUR TRAIL EXISTING LOCAL TRAIL

ERS CREEK LLlers MIMil Creek

PROPOSED LOCAL TRAIL

Existing Graded Path

TRAIL FEATURES

1032

TRAILHEAD

Connect To Existing Path Loop CROSSINGS

18

& 6

'

MAJOR BRIDGE

#

MINOR BRIDGE/ CULVERT

¯

LANDOWNER SENTIMENT

B BR RO OA AD DLLA AN ND D Quarry

1/16

1/8

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0 0 13 49 11 00 40

0

YES

N

Trailhead

Lower Creek-Tributary Crossing #10

17 #Pedestrian Crossing

#

NO POSITIVE

0.075 0.075

1 in = 0.1 NO RESPONSE

miles 1 in = 0.1 miles

JJA AC CO OB B

0.15 Miles 0.15 Miles

451 3

64

ROAD

VVI I RRGG ININ IAIA

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#

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WE ST CAL T CALDW ELELL WE ST CALDW L DW ELL WES

MAP 13: PLANNING SECTION 4

GAMEWELL PARK

13 64 00 0 0 20

ek

CALDWELL COUNTY GOV. CENTER

DUAL TREAD TRAILE RR VE TRANSITIONS TO OOV8’ PAVED ASPHALT HHOO TRAIL IN R.O.W.

CALDWELL COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER

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MELVIEW

SECTION 4

County Gov't Center Gov't Center totoJohn's RiverPark Gamelands Gamewell

#

R

E OV

HO

NC OneMap, NC Center for Geographic Information and Analysis, NC 911 Board

61

chapter 4

14 photos: (14) The trail will connect to Caldwell County's existing walking loop. (15) The proposed trail will leave the existing walking loop and parallel the Caldwell County Government Center's driveway. (16) A constructed wetland manages stormwater from the Caldwell County Government Center's parking lot. (17) After following Highway 18/64, the preferred trail route will connect into Gamewell Park via a sewer easement.

15 62

16

17

Exhibit 12: Highway 18 Side Path

recommendations

TRAILHEAD

highway 18 side path existing

t

he trail will utilize a portion of the NCDOT right-ofway to connect the Caldwell County Government Center to Gamewell Park.

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GAMEWELL 321

64 18

Proposed Trails

Crossings

The preferred trail route extends approximately 1.6 miles throughout this planning section and connects the Gamewell Park walking loop to Rocky Road. Due to landowner issues and other environmental challenges along Abingdon Creek, the trail will need to extend along Highway 18 south of Gamewell Park before turning back toward Lower Creek. The trail continues along the west side of Lower Creek before reaching Rocky Road and McCreary Modern Furniture Plant.

Proposed within this section are two (2) road crossings, four (4) major bridges, and two (2) minor bridges/culverts.

1/ 2M

IL

8

9

IDOR ORR EC

JOHNS RIVER GAME LANDS

181

MORGANTON

gamewell park rocky road intersection total length: trail type:

1. 6 Miles

Dual Tread

Estimated Cost: points of interest:

$985,700 Gamewell Park

Proposed Workplace Wellness

Campus

Gamewell Elementary School

Gamewell Middle School

NCDOT Side Path

A spur trail is recommended to extend east from the preferred trail near Rocky Road to provide connectivity to Gamewell Middle School.

Trail Features

The first road crossing is located at Old Morganton Road just south of Gamewell Park and Town Hall. The crossing will need to be appropriately sited to 19 protect trail users from motorist turning off of Highway 18. The final road crossing is located at the southern end of the planning section at Rocky Road. This crossing will also link the two McCreary Modern furniture manufacturing plants and the proposed workplace wellness campus.

Trailheads Gamewell Park serves as the only trailhead within this planning section. However, there are other opportunities for trailhead locations that should be explored with landowners within the vicinity of Rocky Road, including several churches and McCreary Modern.

From the north, the first major bridge (#6) will be constructed over Abingdon Creek on the north side of the existing vehicular bridge located between Gamewell Park and Town Hall on Old Morganton Road. The three additional major bridges (#7, #8, #9) all cross tributaries to Lower Creek.

photos: (18) Several churches in the area could provide an opportunity to create trailheads. (19) The crossing at Old Morganton Road will need to be appropriately sited to protect trail users from motorists turning off of Highway 18.

18 64

recommendations TO

N N TO N

A

G

G AN R

O R

O

M

M

LIIN NSS

ROCKY

29

13

3 Home Close to Creek 441 0 11 400

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91 31 3

SEE CAAS IRIRC A T A SST

¯

MINOR BRIDGE/ CULVERT

LANDOWNER SENTIMENT

LEE EPPY LYOHHO WOL LLLO OW W

' #18

MAP 14: PLANNING SECTION 5

O LD

213

EXISTING LOCAL TRAIL

R

40 00 12 73 SSW 13 SW WE EEEEET TTB BBRR RIIAA IARR

Trailhead

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20 00 00 64 13

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Lower Creek-Small Tributary Crossing #7

MCCREARY MODERN

MCCREARY MODERN

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TRAIL FEATURES 400 01

End of Sewer Easements Pedestrian Crossing

WW W AARAR RD D DGG GRRR EEEEEE N NN

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PROPOSED LOCAL TRAIL

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30

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PREFERRED TRAIL ROUTE

4000 128

LO

1131

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Wetlands

ER

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HTS HEIGHTS NCERRHEIG SPENCE SPE

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Wetlands/Low Lying Area

Lower Creek-Tributary Crossing #8

Greenway Could Not Utilize Easement

ERR ENNCCE SSPPE

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NDHAR

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18

12

GAMEWELL ELEMENTARY

KPotentially E HO Dangerous Intersection For Pedestrians Unless Redesigned USE T CLAY A P

0 11 400

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13 25 13 00 0 4

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TRAILS

GAMEWELL Calico O Rd. and Water Easements) L Has Signficant ROW (80' With Sewer MIDDLE HO C S 40 L 00 EL 13 W 78 ME 13 A G 40 00 R11O4 C31K3 Y

RREEDDCCLIF LIFFF

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64

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13 20 13 00 40

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H

ROCKY RD. INTERSECTION SSPPE E AAR RSS

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GAMEWELL PARK

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13 80 13 00 40

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Existing Graded Path

32

O LD

SECTION 5

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HOLL INS

SU SUMM MMER EROW OW

Connect To Existing Path Loop

PPA ARRK KEER R

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1/2 MI. NCOneMap, OneMap,NC NCCenter Centerfor forGeographic GeographicInformation Informationand andAnalysis, Analysis,NC NC911 911Board Board NC

&

65

chapter 4

20

photos: (20) Portions of Lower Creek are severely eroded and in need of restoration. (21) McCreary Modern has a substantial amount of open space surrounding their facilities that could be used to create a workplace wellness campus. (22) Portions of this proposed section of trail would follow a sewer easement.

21 66

22

to l el ew m a g ry ta en em el

fence

Exhibit 13: Workplace Wellness Campus

ur sp

pr ef er re d

northern loop

tr ai lr ou te

recommendations

crosswalk

ro cky rd.

0

1/16

1/8

1/4 mi.

southern loop

workplace wellness campus

a

walking track at McCreary Modern would not only serve as a workplace wellness opportunity, but also provides a hub for targeting trail connectivity over time.

67

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64 18

8 1/ 2M

IL

IDOR

9

ORR EC

Proposed Trails The preferred trail route extends approximately 2.6 miles from Rocky Road to Calico Road. Landowners within this section were well represented at the public workshop; most of those in attendance expressed their disinterest in the trail except for a single landowner in the southern area of the planning section. The route remains on the west side of Lower Creek before reaching a proposed pedestrian bridge located approximately midway along the planning section. From here, the trail continues on the east side of Lower Creek and underneath Calico Road (see Exhibit 14: Calico Road Underpass, page 71).

Only a single major bridge is proposed over Lower Creek and is located midway along this section. The bridge allows for the trail to avoid some environmental challenges, but primarily provides for an alignment that does not impact landowners that have expressed their unwillingness to provide a trail easement.

JOHNS RIVER GAME LANDS

181

MORGANTON

Trail Features Trailheads

rocky road intersection calico road total length: trail type: Estimated Cost: points of interest:

A trailhead is proposed on property located on the southeast corner of Lower Creek and Calico Road. The trailhead will serve as an extension of the Calico Road underpass and create a hub for targeting trail connectivity over time.

23

2.6 Miles Dual Tread $1,619,240 Lower Creek

Crossings Proposed within this section are one (1) road crossing, one (1) major bridge, and twelve (12) minor bridges/culverts.

The only road crossing is located at Calico Road where there is ample room to locate the trail under the existing bridge.

photos: (23) A bridge will be required over Lower Creek.

68

recommendations

0 11 400

KINCAID

28 AUTUMNWOOD 15 Lower Creek Tributary Crossing16 #5 27

GRASSY MEADOWS

NT AI

N

LI

CO

Lower Creek Tributary Crossing #3

19 & 26

ER

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25

DS

CANDY

T ET

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D

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13 42 11 00 40

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23 24

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25

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22

V V TTIC JESS JE AA MM

House Very Close to Creek

21 26

23

24

#

ROAD

#

MAJOR BRIDGE

#

MINOR BRIDGE/ CULVERT

¯

LANDOWNER SENTIMENT

O AEMOE

EV

Signficant Bridge Span Would Allow For A Greenway Underpas Calico Road Bridge Underpass

19 &

K OK ROO NBBRO A N EV A

CM CA

22

H

PROPOSED LOCAL TRAIL

CROSSINGS

TOWNSEN D ND TOWNSE

OR

EXISTING LOCAL TRAIL

21 &

W LO

CA L

IC O

CA

L

PI

IA

ERR

TA L

AAE

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TRAIL FEATURES

Lower Creek Tributary Crossing #2

E CR

ALTERNATE TRAIL ROUTE

CRACIR GM AI OU G N M TA O IN U

ST R

U

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Hus

18 &

Trailhead

AC

N

PREFERRED TRAIL ROUTE

Lower Creek Tributary Crossing #4

20

PL

AY M

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& 10 & Greenway Alignment Unlikely Due to Parceled Out Creek

ER LLLE EEL

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FOX #2 Greenway Could Serve Many Residents Who Have No Sidewalks Lower Creek Bridge Crossing17

TE TTE LLO OVVEET

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Calico Rd ROW Averages 65-Ft. In This Section

PIN EEB BU UR RR R

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0 0

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MAP 15: PLANNING SECTION 6

&

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69

Calico Road Intersection

chapter 4

24

General vicinity of proposed trailhead

photos: (24) Lower Creek maintains a healthy vegetative buffer near the Calico Road crossing. (25) A trailhead is proposed on property located on the southwest corner of the Lower Creek and Calico Road intersection.

25 70

Exhibit 14: Calico Road Underpass

recommendations

calico road underpass existing

s

ufficient space exists under the existing bridge at Calico Road to provide for a multi-use trail underpass. This trail underpass will connect to a proposed trailhead located south of Calico Road.

71

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4 GAMEWELL 321

64 18

This planning section explores the Lower Creek corridor from Calico Road to the state-owned Johns River Game Lands located in Burke County; the preferred trail route extends approximately 3.1 miles. From the Calico Road trailhead, the trail remains on the east side and continues over Antioch Road before reaching a significant wetland.

Just north of the wetland a major bridge is proposed, transitioning the trail to the west side of Lower Creek before reaching the Johns River Game Lands. A viewing platform is proposed along the trail with vistas of the wetland area.

27

IDOR ORR EC

1/ 2M

IL

8

64

Proposed Trails

JOHNS RIVER GAME LANDS

9 181

MORGANTON

Trail Features calico road johns river game lands

Trailheads A trailhead is proposed at the end of Putnam Road where a trail spur will connect users to the main trail.

total length: trail type:

Dual Tread

Crossings

Wetland Trail

Proposed within this sec26 tion are one (1) road crossing, one (1) major bridge, and nine (9) minor bridges/ culverts.

Estimated Cost:

3.1 Miles

$1,711,080

points of interest:

Lower Creek

Significant Wetlands

The trail will need to cross over Antioch Road. Unlike the bridge at Calico Road, there is not sufficient room under the bridge at Antioch Road to provide for the trail.

28

photo: (26) The Johns River Game Lands access at Putnam Road is currently overgrown. (27) The preferred trail route

Only a single major bridge is proposed over Lower Creek and is located just north of the significant wetland area.

72

would cross over Antioch Road near the Lower Creek Bridge. (28) A bridge is proposed on Lower Creek north of a significant wetland area.

recommendations

22

26 25

23

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32

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64

IPE

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0

1/8

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IL

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Throughout the planning process, the consultant team worked directly with the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission, the agency responsible for managing the Johns River Game Lands, to determine a feasible trail route through this unique public land (for more information about the Johns River Game Land, see page 13).

GAMEWELL

8

9

Proposed Trails

ORR EC

JOHNS RIVER GAME LANDS

181

MORGANTON

The preferred route continues along the west side of Lower Creek before bridging Bristol Creek just north of its confluence with Lower Creek. After meandering through the Game Land and crossing Duckworth Road, the trail connects to the existing Johns River Canoe Access. From here, the trail will need to cross both the Johns River and ultimately the Catawba River.

Crossings Proposed within this section are one (1) road crossing, three (3) major bridges, and twelve (12) minor bridges/ culverts.

The only road crossing (#21) is located along Duckworth Road, which is a local road that provides access to an enclave of private property that is surrounded by public land.

Major bridge crossing #12 will span Bristol Creek just north of its confluence with Lower Creek. Crossing #13 and 14 will cross the Johns River and Catawba River, respectively.

johns river game lands

Trail Features total length: trail type:

5.5 Miles

Wetland Trail Possible

Estimated Cost: points of interest:

$3,879,940 Johns River Game Lands

Proposed Observation Deck

Dual-Use Path

Trailheads A formal trailhead is proposed at the current Johns River Game Lands’ access located on Highway 18/64. A spur trail will connect the trailhead to the main trail.

30

Johns River Trailhead & River Access

photo: ( 29) A formal trailhead is proposed at the current Johns River Game Lands' access point located on Highway 18/64. (30) The existing Johns River Game Lands River access can serve as major trailhead. However, a significant bridge will be required to cross the Johns River here.

29 74

&

Johns Johns River River Game Game Lands Lands

Road r e c o m m e n d a t i oAntioch ns Antioch Road Int In

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MAP 17: PLANNING SECTION 8

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IDGE RD

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O Culvert RLERTY (Abutments/rise) 46 Large TFloodplain Large Floodplain (Abutments/rise) R RIV Bend One of the Better Crossing Spots (suspension?)

Narrow 11 E VNarrow Bend One of the Better Crossing Spots (suspension?)

I R Sewer Easement Parallels Most of the Extent of the Catawba River to Hwy 64 Culvert Culvert 47 48 Trailhead 50 049 0 1/4 1/2 KICulvert ROCKY FORD Trailhead 0S1R K4S3 311 KI4R0K E4Y E 11 Catawba Bridge Crossing ACCESS 144 Y 0 0 D Catawba Bridge Crossing R 40

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JOHNS RIVER GAME LANDS

On-grade Hwy Hwy 64 64 Crossing Crossing Not Not Ideal Ideal On-grade Hwy 64 64 Corridor Corridor Widening Widening Project Project May May Benefit Benefit aa Parallel Parallel Greenway Greenway Alignment Alignment Hwy

22

PROPOSED CATAWBA RIVER GREENWAY EXTENSION

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11 33 14 00 40

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Area/Neighborhood Area/Neighborhood Has Has Potential Potential Open Open Space Space to to Accomodate Accomodate Greenway Greenway Area Area Outside Outside of of OVT OVT Mile-Buffer Mile-Buffer

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11 1569 AM 00TN 40PU

18 HILLSBORO DR 18 Significant Amount of Properties Here May Not Be Developable Due to Wetland Constraints CH IO Significant HILLHAVAmount AA EN CIR of Properties Here May Not Be Developable Due to Wetland Constraints CHCH NT AN 11 N OIO IT T 15884411 AV K E E 44000000 15 R K On-Road Section R CCREE E Requires Short OWW ER LLO HEMLOCK TRL Requires Short On-Road Section 1 11 2 31 22E1N6 0 0R AV BR 0 22 Crossing #1 EN40DH 0 Lower Creek Bridge HAV EEN GR 0 4Bridge Crossing GREEN ISS Lower Creek #1 TTOO Signficant Site Site Disturbance Disturbance On On This This Property Property LLT Signficant PAP RL NC Wildlife Wildlife Resource Resource Commission Commission requests requests this this area area be be avoided NC XA HX ILBridge HI and/or Boardwalk Bridge Likely Required Unless Hwy 64 Required Bridge Used wildlife Platform 17 LL and/or Boardwalk Likely Unless HwyViewing 64 Bridge Used 17 31 L R D wildlife Viewing Platform 16 Wetland and and Natural Natural Heritage Heritage Area Area Trailhead 16 Wetland Trailhead 32 PROPOSED 11 143 0 15 15 WETLAND Y 4000

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1 211 151 2 00 5 40000 1 D 4 R RST AM HE NC Information NCOneMap, OneMap,NC NCCenter Center for for Geographic Geographic Information and andAnalysis, Analysis,NC NC 911 911Board Board

75

chapter 4

section 9 90

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18 321

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LD W BU ELL RK E C COUN 6 OU T NT Y Y

7

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64

4 GAMEWELL 321

64 18

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IDOR

9

ORR EC

JOHNS RIVER GAME LANDS

Proposed Trails This planning section spans a relatively short distance, covering only 1.4 miles of trail from the proposed bridge over the Catawba River to the existing Rocky Ford Access, which serves as the northern terminus of Morganton’s Catawba River Greenway. From the Johns River Game Lands and the proposed bridge over the Catawba River (#13), the preferred trail route connects to an apartment complex on the river’s south side and continues west before reaching a proposed underpass at Highway 18/64 and the Catawba River Greenway, which is also certified as part of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail.

tion is located at Highway 18/64 where there is sufficient clearance for a multi-use trail under the bridge. This underpass will connect directly to the Rocky Ford Access.

The two major bridge crossings, #15 and #16, cross the Catawba River and Warrior Fork, respectively. These crossings will provide mean- 31 ingful connections (ie. Walter Johnson Middle School) and take advantage of existing trail easements, but are not mandatory for implementing the preferred route.

181

MORGANTON

johns river game lands catawba river greenway total length: trail type:

1.4 Miles Typical Greenway

From the Rocky Ford Access, a spur trail takes advantage of trail easements existing on the west side of the Catawba River. However, this trail segment will require a major bridge crossing (#15) over the Catawba River.

Another bridge crossing (#16) over Warrior Fork would provide access to Walter Johnson Middle School.

Trail Features

Estimated Cost: points of interest:

$5,669,720

Trailheads

Johns River Game Lands

Proposed Observation Deck

Johns River Trailhead & River

The Rocky Fork Access currently serves as a trailhead for the northern terminus of the Catawba River Greenway. Also, according to the National Park Service, this site is the preferred location for the headquarters of the Overmountain Victory Trail National Historic Trail.

Access

32

Crossings Proposed within this section are one (1) road crossing, two (2) major bridges, and eight (8) minor bridges/culverts.

photo: (31) A major bridge crossing (#14) will be required over the Catawba River. (32) The preferred trail route would follow a sewer easement on the southern side of the Catawba River.

The only road crossing (#22) within this planning sec-

76

recommendations

TRAILS

40 00 14 36 11

L

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LEGEND err vive RRi nss ER ohhn JJo IV

PREFERRED TRAIL ROUTE

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CATAWBA RIVER GREENWAY

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Access Point

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20 2 0000 0000 6406 1141 1

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45

4

JOHNS Field RIVER GAME LANDS

EXISTING LOCAL TRAIL PROPOSED LOCAL TRAIL

TRAIL FEATURES TRAILHEAD

23On-grade Hwy 64 Crossing Not Ideal

R

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Hwy 64 Corridor Widening Project May Benefit a Parallel Greenway Alignment

W AT ER

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64 3

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54 GRACE RIDGE RRETIREMENT IDGE SIDE COMMUNITY T ER

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11 23 14 00 40

John's River Gamelands to Catawba River Greenway

MAP 18: PLANNING SECTION 9

5

SECTION 9

W Waarrio riorrFo Forrkk

1/2 MI.

NC NCOneMap, OneMap,NC NCCenter Center for for Geographic Geographic Information Information and andAnalysis, Analysis,NC NC 911 911Board Board

77

exhibit 15: highway 18/64 underpass

chapter 4

highway 18/64 underpass existing

78

t

he 18/64 underpass in Morganton is critical for connecting the existing Rock Ford Access/Catawba River Greenway with the Johns River Game Lands.

o wa r r i

r fork

CONCEPTUAL DESIGN PROVIDED BY CITY OF MORGANTON

EXHIBIT 16: GRACE RIDGE TRAILHEAD

recommendations

location of existing rocky ford access

hi gh ay w 18

w ta Ca

/6 4

ba ri

grace ridge retirement community

ve r

grace ridge trailhead

a

a

new OVT trailhead is proposed along new Highway 18/64 adjacent to the Grace Ridge Retirement OVNHT trailhead is proposed along Highway 18/64 Comadjacent munity. A spur trail will connect the parking area toRidge the proposed OVT along the Catawba River. to the Grace Retirement Community.

A spur trail will connect the parking area to the proposed OVNHT along the Catawba River.

79

chapter 4

80

Chapter 5 implementation

To construct the OVNHT from lenoir to morganton will be no small task, but with time, perseverance, and a little luck, there is no doubt that a destination-quality trail is

This chapter aims to summarize details regarding

within grasp.

ensues.

each Planning Section and establish responsibilities and priorities for trail implementation. Furthermore, this chapter describes the “Trail Rubicon,� or the focus areas that when developed, result in a perception that the complete trail is imminent and widespread support

I n t h is c h a pt er A. Implementation by Section and Responsibilities B. Priority Implementation Areas and Responsibilities C. Trail Rubicon D. Trail Support Spectrum

chapter 5

implementation Implementation BY SECTION AND RESPONSIBILITY The table below provides key implementation information associated with each planning section. Key Challenges include a summary of the most difficult barriers for realizing each trail section. Many of these barriers include costly features or note the need to acquire trail easements from private landowners. Most importantly, this table assigns an Implementing Agency to each planning section.

Section

Estimated Budget

Distance

Key Challenges

SECTION 1- Blair Fork Trailhead to Main Street Trailhead

1

Crossing Creekway Dr.; NCDOT Encroachment; Main St. Crossing; 2 Bridges; Securing Rail Trail Easement

SECTION 2- Main St. Trailhead to Unity Park

1.5

Securing Rail Trail Easement

$361,440.00

SECTION 3- Unity Park to Caldwell County Government Center

2.4

Hwy 18/64 Crossing; Repurposing Trestle Bridge; Pedestrian Bridge @ Fairview Rd.; Landowner Trail Easements; SW BLVD Underpass; Greasy Creek Bridge

$1,215,300.00

$873,820.00

SECTION 4- Caldwell Gov. Center to Gamewell Park

0.9

NCDOT Encroachment; 2 Road Crossings

$489,020.00

SECTION 5- Gamewell Park to Rocky Rd. Intersection

1.6

Major Bridge; NCDOT Encroachment; Landowner Trail Easements

$985,700.00

SECTION 6- Rocky Rd. Intersection to Calico Rd. Intersection

2.6

Calico Road Underpass; Landowner Trail Easements

$1,619,240.00

SECTION 7-Calico Rd. Intersection to Johns River Game Lands

3.1

Landowner Trail Easements; Wetland Areas

$1,711,080.00

SECTION 8- Johns River Game Lands

5.5

NC Wildlife Approvals; 2 Major Bridges

$3,879,940.00

1.4

Major Bridge; NCDOT Underpass Encroachment at Hwy 18/64

$5,669,720.00 $16,805,260.00

SECTION 9- Johns River Game Lands to Catawba River Greenway

ALL SECTIONS TOTAL

Implementation Details: According to Planning Section The table

82 below provides key implementation information associated with each planning section. Key Challenges provides a summary of the most difficult barriers for realizing each trail section. Many of these barriers

20

Implementing Agency

City of Lenoir; Caldwell County Pathways City of Lenoir; Caldwell County Pathways City of Lenoir; Caldwell County Pathways; Caldwell County Caldwell County Pathways; Caldwell County; Town of Gamewell Caldwell County Pathways; Caldwell County; Town of Gamewell Caldwell County Pathways; Caldwell County; Town of Gamewell Caldwell County Pathways; Caldwell County Burke County City of Morganton

EXHIBIT 17: IMPLEMENTATION DETAILS BY SECTION AND RESPONSIBILITY

implementation details by section and responsibility

implementation

Priority Implementation Areas & responsibilities Caldwell County Pathways and each local government entity must work in tandem to successfully realize the OVNHT. Trail implementation does not have to occur in a specific, linear order according to each planning section. In fact, the priority areas for implementation are merely suggestions and are in no way intended to hem creativity or necessary work in "lower" priority areas.

Trail implementation is an art and requires the acumen to recognize and then seize opportunities, whether related to funding, landowner willingness, politics, etc.

T

hink snowball effect. Which sections of the trail need to be developed before there is widespread support and a collective energy, beyond that of the community's traditional trail support base, to ensure that the OVNHT is complete? These trail section or focus areas represent the Trail Rubicon. Between Lenoir and Morganton, there are three areas:

EXHIBIT 18: TRAIL RUBICON

trail rubicon: finding the point of no return

1. lenoir rail TRAIL 2. Caldwell county government center to gamewell town hall 3. Johns River gamelands & catawba river greenway

trail Rubicon

PRIORITY implementation AREAS and responsibilities Implementing Agency City of Lenoir Caldwell County Pathways Town of Gamewell Burke County City of Morganton

Priority One

Priority Two

Section 3b: Trestle Bridge to Caldwell Government Center Section 4: Caldwell Government Center Section 3b: Trestle Bridge to Caldwell Government to Gamewell Park Center Section 4: Caldwell Government Center Sections 5, 6: Gamewell Park to Calico Road to Gamewell Park Section 8: Johns River Game Lands Section 7: Calico Road to John River Gamelands Section 9: Catawba River Greenway N/A Connector Rail Trail (Sections 1,2,3)

EXHIBIT 19: PRIORITY IMPLEMENTATION AREAS

The table below supports a trail development strategy that prioritizes areas located to the north (rail trail), central (Caldwell County Government Center to Gamewell Park), and south (Johns River Gamelands and Catawba River Greenway Connector). If these three areas were to be fully developed, this would likely provide the formula for "Trail Rubicon," the point in which the public, elected officials, and grant making agencies recognize that connectivity and complete implementation is imminent. At this point significant momentum and synergy would likely propel forward the completion of the OVNHT from Lenoir to Morganton.

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chapter 5

trail support spectrum Creating a destination-quality trail system requires a significant commitment from local governments, including staff time, the holding of land and trail easements, and the dedication of local funding.

spend local funds, but instead must leverage their funds to obtain support from grant-making agencies sympathetic to the creation of trails and the OVNHT.

The “Trail Support Spectrum� illustrates the steps local governments can take to support trail development.

Each local government must evaluate the OVNHT in relationship to its other priorities. However, a trail of this magnitude should be recognized as an economic development initiative that will provide a return on investment. Furthermore, each jurisdiction must not merely

5 4 3 2 1 84

EXHIBIT 19: TRAIL SUPPORT SPECTRUM

TRAIL SUPPORT SPECTRUM

APPENDIX

APPENDIX

(A1) BUDGET SECTION 1- Blair Fork Trailhead to Main Street Trailhead Blair Fork Trailhead Advent Trailhead Main Street Trailhead Typical Greenway (10 ft. Paved Asphalt) Rail Trail (10 ft. Natural Surface) Creekway Drive Road Crossing Other Road Crossings Major Bridges Minor Bridge/ Culvert

SECTION 2- N. Main to Unity Park Unity Park Trailhead Rail Trail (10 ft. Natural Surface) Road Crossings Major Bridges Minor Bridge/ Culvert

Units

Unit Cost

Total Cost

1 1 1 2640 3168 1 5 2 0

$132,000.00 $45,000.00 $75,000.00 $90.00 $40.00 $80,000.00 $5,500.00 $75,000.00 $0.00

$132,000.00 $45,000.00 $75,000.00 $237,600.00 $126,720.00 $80,000.00 $27,500.00 $150,000.00 $0.00

Units 1 6336 6 0 0

Total Cost Unit Cost $75,000.00 $40.00 $5,500.00 $0.00 $0.00

Total Cost SECTION 3- Unity Park to Caldwell County Government Center Caldwell County Gov. Center Trailhead Rail Trail (10 ft. Natural Surface) Dual Tread (8 ft. Asphalt, 3 ft. Natural Surface) Highway 18 Road Crossing Other Road Crossings Major Bridges Minor Bridge/ Culvert

Gamewell Trailhead NCDOT Side Path (8 ft. Paved Asphalt) Road Crossings Major Bridges Minor Bridge/ Culvert

Trailhead NCDOT Side Path (8 ft. Paved Asphalt) Dual Tread (8 ft. Asphalt, 3 ft. Natural Surface) Road Crossings Major Bridge @ Old Morganton Road Other Major Bridges Minor Bridge/ Culvert

Total Cost

1 3168 8976 1 3 3 3

$40,000.00 $40.00 $80.00 $65,000.00 $5,500.00 $75,000.00 $8,000.00

$40,000.00 $126,720.00 $718,080.00 $65,000.00 $16,500.00 $225,000.00 $24,000.00

Trailhead Dual Tread (8 ft. Asphalt, 3 ft. Natural Surface) Calico Rd. Underpass (Road Crossing) Major Bridge Minor Bridge/ Culvert

Unit Cost

Total Cost

1 3696 1 0 5

$0.00 $120.00 $5,500.00 $0.00 $8,000.00

$0.00 $443,520.00 $5,500.00 $0.00 $40,000.00

$489,020.00

Units

Unit Cost

Total Cost

0 1584 6864 1 1 3 2

$0.00 $120.00 $80.00 $5,500.00 $75,000.00 $50,000.00 $8,000.00

$0.00 $190,080.00 $549,120.00 $5,500.00 $75,000.00 $150,000.00 $16,000.00

$985,700.00

Units

Unit Cost

Total Cost

0 13728 1 1 12

$0.00 $80.00 $350,000.00 $75,000.00 $8,000.00

$0.00 $1,098,240.00 $350,000.00 $75,000.00 $96,000.00

Total Cost

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$1,215,300.00

Units

Total Cost SECTION 6- Rocky Rd. Intersection to Calico Rd. Intersection

$361,440.00

Unit Cost

Total Cost SECTION 5- Gamewell Park to Rocky Rd. Intersection

$75,000.00 $253,440.00 $33,000.00 $0.00 $0.00

Units

Total Cost SECTION 4- Caldwell Gov. Center to Gamewell Park

$873,820.00 Total Cost

$1,619,240.00

SECTION 7-Calico Rd. Intersection to Johns River Gamelands Calico Trailhead Dual Tread (8 ft. Asphalt, 3 ft. Natural Surface) Wetland Trail (Boardwalk or Geosynthetic) Antioch Road Crossing Major Bridge Minor Bridge/ Culvert

SECTION 8- Johns River Gamelands Putnam Trailhead John River Access Trailhead (existing) Dual-Use Path (8 ft. Natural Surface) Johns River Bridge Minor Bridge/ Culvert

Units

Unit Cost

Total Cost

1 6864 6864 1 0 12

$95,000.00 $80.00 $140.00 $10,000.00 $0.00 $8,000.00

$95,000.00 $549,120.00 $960,960.00 $10,000.00 $0.00 $96,000.00

Units

Total Cost Unit Cost $40,000.00

$1,711,080.00 Total Cost

1 1 27456 1 16

$7,500.00 $60.00 * $250,000.00 $8,000.00

Total Cost SECTION 9- Johns River Gamelands to Catawba River Greenway Rocky Fork Trailhead John River Access Trailhead (existing) Typical Greenway (10 ft. Paved Asphalt) 18/64 Underpass (Road Crossing) Catawba River Bridge Minor Bridge/ Culvert

$3,879,940.00

Units

Unit Cost

Total Cost

1 1 7392 1 1 8

$125,000.00

$125,000.00 $7,500.00 $665,280.00 $200,000.00 $350,000.00 $64,000.00

$7,500.00 $90.00 $200,000.00 $350,000.00 $8,000.00

Total Cost ALL SECTIONS TOTAL *This trail type typically cost approximately $20 per linear foot. However, this estimate accounts for adverse environmental conditions found throughout sections of the Johns River Gamelands.

$40,000.00 $7,500.00 $1,647,360.00 $250,000.00 $128,000.00

$5,669,720.00 $16,805,260.00

APPENDIX

(A2) FACT SHEET

(A3) LANDOWNER LETTER

Date: February 16, 2015

FACT SHEET

[Insert Landowner Name and Address Re: Trail Planning Meeting for Landowners

BACKGROUND

A trail master planning effort is underway to help create a section of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail (OVT) that would connect from Lenoir to Morganton to Lake James!

Dear [Insert Landowner Name]: Thanks to grant support from the National Park Service, regional community organizations and local government leaders, a plan is being developed for establishing a walking and leisure biking trail to connect from Lenoir to Morganton to Lake James.

Thanks to grant support from the National Park Service, regional community organizations and local governments are working to establish a walking and leisure biking trail that connects the region and celebrates the trail walked by the Overmountain Men who won a major Revolutionary War battle at Kings Mountain in 1780.

This trail celebrates the walk made by the Overmountain Men who won a major Revolutionary War battle at Kings Mountain in 1780.

The trail planning process requires an analysis of the Lower Creek corridor in Caldwell County and the Catawba River corridor in Burke County. The trail is best suited in floodplain areas where development generally cannot occur and where there are meaningful connections to existing parks, civic buildings, and neighborhoods.

After identifying feasible trail route options, there will be a major landowner outreach effort. Without the voluntary commitment from landowners, the trail will either be relocated or not constructed.

THE PLANNING PROCESS

An educational video will be developed to help communicate the historical significance of the OVT, which will be made available online.

www.OVTplan.com

1 Direction Setting and Project Launch

| September 2014 The consultant team will meet with local trail and government leaders to generally discuss environmental constraints and opportunities for trail connectivity.

2

Research | October – January 2015 The consultant team will conduct a thorough environmental assessment of the study area and determine feasible trail route options. With the trail routes identified, a landowner contact list will be developed.

3

Landowner Outreach | February – March 2015 Landowners with property along an identified feasible trail route will be invited to a special meeting to learn more about the trail project. After receiving comments from landowners, the preliminary trail routes will be updated.

4

Plan Development | March – May 2015 The consultant team will document the trail analysis and landowner comments. Recommendations will highlight alternative routes and the project’s overall feasibility for completion. A draft plan will be made available for public comment.

5

Final Plan Preparation | May – June 2015 The consultant team will publish a final plan that incorporates all public comments.

Since November 2014, the planning team has been working to identify a feasible route to construct the trail. As part of this analysis, your property has been identified as a potential location for a trail section. Without a voluntary commitment from landowners, this important trail will either be relocated or not constructed.

We would like to invite you and other landowners to discuss this project during a special meeting that will take place at [insert time and location].

An informational video can be found on the web at: www.OVTplan.com. Also, enclosed is a project Fact Sheet that further describes the project.

Please RSVP if you plan to attend the meeting by sending an email or calling using the contact information below. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Eric Woolridge Consultant Project Manager Destination by Design Planning Phone: 828.386.1866 Email: eric@DbDplanning.com

CONSULTANT CONTACT: Eric Woolridge, AICP Destination by Design Email: Eric@dbdplanning.com Phone: (828) 386-1866 Web: www.DbDplanning.com

Destination by Design Planning 815 W. King Street, NC 28607

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APPENDIX

(A4) landowner interest survey

(A5) funding sources

Note: The completed Landowner Interest Surveys were provided to local government leaders.

Grant Agency

TIGER

Overmountain Victory

National Historic Trail Master Plan LE N

OIR

ES JAM • MO RGANTON • LAKE

Landowner Interest Survey Name ________________________________________

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Active Living/ BuiltEnvironment Implications Construction provided all easements are secure.

Maximum Grant Amount

Matching Funds Required

Grant Deadlines

N/A (min. $1 million)

$0 (for rural counties

May (typical)

Not specified, but 20% is competitive

February 1st

N/A

50%

January 1st and June 1st

$100,000.00

25%

February 1st

$500,000.00

50%

February 1st

$10,000.00

20%

May 24th

N/A (for major projects)

20% generally

N/A

Land Acquisition: Fee Simple or Overmountain Victory

Based on 6/2015 discussion w/ staff, a LE N $750K / multi‐year floodplain areas. Greenway ES OIR JAM (www.cwmff.net) • MO RGANTON • LAKE trails and other park areas are application would be welcome. allowed.

Easement. Must protect National Historic Trail Master Plan Clean Water Management Trust Fund

River access areas or greenways along rivers Landowner Interest Survey All types of trails and Recreation Trails Program (ncparks.gov/About/grants/main.php) greenways All types of parks, trails, and and Recreation Trust Fund Name Parks ________________________________________ (ncparks.gov/About/grants/main.php) recreation facilities NC Water Resources (www.ncwater.org)

Address_______________________________________

Address_______________________________________

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________ Bike and Pedestrian Projects‐

Bikes Belong Foundation

Trails and Greenways

NCDOT Transportation Plan For Bike and Pedestrian Projects

both engineering and _________________________________ construction

Phone Number _________________________________

Phone Number

Email _________________________________________

Email _________________________________________

Please share your level of interest for providing for the public trail. (check below)

Please share your level of interest for providing for the public trail. (check below)

Ο Not interested at this time

Ο Not interested at this time

Ο Somewhat interested and welcome further discussions

Ο Somewhat interested and welcome further discussions

Ο Very interested

Ο Very interested

APPENDIX

(A6) public-private partnership Memo

MEMO To:

DbD Clientele

From:

Eric Woolridge, Principal

Date:

February 1st, 2015

Re:

Public-Private Partnership

Due to increasing interest among our clients for information regarding the new P3 legislation, we have compiled the following overview.

Introduction Public-Private Partnerships, commonly referred to as P3s, are contractual agreements between public and private entities that provide for significant entities in the delivery and financing of public buildings and infrastructure projects. Under a P3 agreement, the private entity assumes the project’s financing and is entitled to either the revenue generated from project activities or performance-based government payments.

Public-Private Partnerships enable public entities to undertake projects which they might otherwise postpone or ignore due to lack of funds. P3 projects also create a vast number of jobs, and dramatically accelerate project completion when compared to traditional Design-Bid-Build projects. There are several different types of P3 delivery options; however, the most common P3 system is a Design-Build-Finance-Operate-Maintain (DBFOM) transaction.

North Carolina Background on P3 Law and Process of Current Law Historically in North Carolina, local municipalities and state agencies required approval from the State Building Commission to engage in any type of procurement for construction other than traditional procurement methods such as separate-prime bidding, single-prime bidding, dual bidding, and construction management at risk contracts. See G.S. § 143-128(a1) & § 143-128(9). On August 23, 2013, Governor Pat McCrory of North Carolina signed into law HB 857, which empowered these entities to engage in alternative delivery methods, such as design-builds and public-private partnerships.

As a result, North Carolina amended G.S. § 143-128, thus allowing local government and state agencies to use P3s and design-build contracts to construct a wide range of projects. Although unsolicited proposals are not contemplated under the statute, public entities may still pursue alternative procurement vehicles subject to the stringent criteria set forth in the new statutory framework. See, e.g., § 143-128.1A. (establishing criteria regarding design-build contracts); § 143-128.1B (establishing criteria for design-build bridging); § 143-128.1C. (establishing criteria for P3s). This new framework creates a mechanism whereby the government entity must also submit a detailed report explaining why it chose the alternative delivery system over traditional procurement methods.

Despite the criteria and reporting requirements contained therein, this new law recognizes that that North Carolina is “not wholly satisfied by existing procurement methods” for the design, construction, improvement, renovation and expansion of public buildings. This new enabling legislation therefore provides opportunities for government entities to become more creative in their approach.

Overview of Key Points of New Legislation •

A “government entity” is defined as “[e]very officer, board, department, commission, or commissions charged with responsibility of preparation of specifications or awarding or entering into contracts for the erection, construction, alteration, or repair of any buildings for the State or for any county, municipality, or other public body.” § 143-128.1B (a)(6). However, this new law is not meant to affect the existing statutes, regulations, or practices for projects administered by the North Carolina Department of Transportation, nor is it meant to apply to any contract between the University of North Carolina or one of its constituent institutions. It is also not meant to apply to a private, nonprofit corporation established under Part 2B of Article 1 of Chapter 116 of the General Statutes.

•

A P3 project is defined as: “A capital improvement project undertaken for the benefit of a governmental entity and a private developer pursuant to a development contract that includes construction of a public facility or other improvements, including paving, grading, utilities, infrastructure, reconstruction, or repair, and may include both public and private facilities.” § 143-128.1C(a)(8) (emphasis added).

•

Government entities can now to engage in P3 work if it is determined that there is “a critical need for a capital improvement project,” and in such a case, the entity “may acquire, construct, own, lease as lessor or lessee, and operate or participate in the acquisition, construction, ownership, leasing, and operation of a public private project, or of specific facilities within such a project, including the making of loans and grants from funds available to the governmental entity for these purposes.” §143-128.1C(b).

•

In order to engage in such P3 delivery systems, the government entity will determine the scope of what facilities should be built according to the P3 model, and the form in which developers can apply to win such work. The entity must advertise a notice of interested private developers to submit qualifications in a newspaper having circulation in the county where the entity is located. §143-128.1C(h).

•

The private developer is chosen based upon qualifications such as evidence of financial stability (exclusive of “trade secrets”), experience with similar projects, explanation of the proposed project team, a statement of availability to undertake the project and a projected timeline for completion, and any other information required by the government entity. § 143-64.31(h) & (i).

•

Small business entities and resident companies are favored and even given preference under this framework. See § 143-128.1C(e) & § 14364.31(a1)

Source: UNC School of Government 815 W. King Street | Boone, NC | 2 8 6 0 7 | 8 2 8 .3 8 6 .1 8 6 6

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