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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I.
IJST
H. m.
OF
FOLDOUT
MAPS
INTRODUCTION HISTORICAL
ii 1
OVERVIEW
2
IV. SITE ANALYSIS AND IMPROVEMENTS INTRODUCTION HISTORIC
&
P R E S E RVAT I O N
R E C R E AT I O N A L SECURITY
FACILITIES
AND
VA N D A L I S M
CIRCULATION, ENTRANCES, AND ACCESSIBILITY LANDSCAPE V. VI.
SUMMARY
A N A LY S I S
AND OF
A N A LY S I S A N A LY S I S
A N A LY S I S
TOPOGRAPHY
A N A LY S I S
R E C O M M E N D AT I O N S
I M P L E M E N TAT I O N
PROGRAM
10 12 14 17 .20 .24 .27
Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990
LIST OF FOLDOUT MAPS
MAP 1. - EXISTING CONDITIONS: RECREATIONAL FAOLniES
MAP 2. - EXISTING CONDITIONS: CIRCULATIONS, ENTRANCES, AND ACCESSffiLITY
MAP 3. - EXISTING CODNTTIONS: LANDSCAPE AND TOPOGRAPHY
MAP 4. - MIANTONOMI PARK RENOVATION MASTER PLAN
Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan • August 1990
INTRODUCTION Miantonomi Park has belonged to the people of Newport since 1921. The 32-acre parcel of land, located in the Northern part of the City of Newport, contains parklands, picnic areas, playground facilities, and the landmark World War I Memorial Tower. Planning, maintenance, and activities within the park fall under the responsibility of two bodies: the City of Newport and the Miantonomi Park Commission. Over the years, the park has also benefitted from the efforts of civic-minded volunteers, including the Rotary Anns, the Navy, the Park Holm and Tonom3y public housing projects, the Boy and Girl Scouts, and local citizens. The purpose of this Plan is to provide analysis and recommendations for renovations and improvements which will assist in meeting the following objectives: To expand the range of active and passive recreational activities in the park. To reinforce and celebrate the park's importance as a World War I Memorial. To assist in correcting specific problems and to make improvements in the park, the City has applied for grant funding through the State of Rhode Island Recreation and Open Space Bond Fund.
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990
HISTORICAL OVERVIEW Miantonomi Hill: Early History The history of Miantonomi Hill goes back to the days when it was the seat of power of the Narragansett Indian chieftains. Other phonetic spellings of the hill show its Indian origins: Tomony and Wanomitonomo. Colonial settlers used the hill for a lookout, for public executions, and for beacons. By 1667, a beacon had been established on the hill which, when lighted, "was the directory to the rest of the beacons to be forthwith fired throughout the whole colony." In 1776, another beacon was established on the hill to "give the country an alarm in case of invasion." At this time the fortifications on Miantonomi Hill were constructed. In 1796, the secretary of war reported to the Congress that a citadel for the protection of the inhabitants had been erected on the hill. These remained in use until 1817, when the site was visited by President James Monroe during a tour of naval installations and estab lishments. During the course of the 19th century, the hill and its surroundings reverted to farmland, and, because of its scenic beauty and natural setting, became a popular place for summer vacationers and picnickers. The Birth of a Park In 1881 the site was purchased by Anson Phelps Stokes and remained in the family until 1921 when Mrs. Stokes sold it to the City so that the historic area could become a memorial to Newport men who died in "The Great War." In deeding the property to the city, she stipulated that the premises should be for the free use of the public forever. An act of the General Assembly gave control of the park to the Miantonomi Park Commis sion. This commission developed the site and dedicated it as a war memorial on Armistice Day, 1923. In 1925 the Commission initiated a fund drive to raise $75,000 to build the tower, and in 1929 the Memorial Tower was erected and dedicated on the 150th anniver sary of the Battle of Rhode Island.
Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990
Many famous persons have been associated with Miantonomi Hill. Count Rochambeau, commander of the French forces in Newport, and other high ranking officers visited it for inspections. In addition to President Monroe and Commodore Perry, two famous World War I leaders toured the park in 1927 — Rear Admiral William S. Sims, who commanded the American naval forces in Europe during the war and later was president of the Naval War College; and General of the Armies John J. Pershing, commander of the American Ex peditionary Force. A major goal of the Commission has been to involve Newport residents in assisting the Department of Recreation and Public Services with the maintenance and improvements of the park. The 30-plus acres of park woodland have been consistently improved by the volunteer efforts of groups including the Rotary Anns, the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, the Seabees, and the Park Holm and Tomony housing developments. In 1977, the City obtained Community Development funds to make improvements in the park to benefit the city and the immediate neighborhood. These improvements may be seen today: playground equipment, picnic tables, fencing, erosion protection, drainage im provements, and new shrubs and trees.
Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990
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aWS__NEWPORT, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6, 1921,
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HISTORY OF TAMMANY HILL, i .->..:•;
Figure 1. Map showing configuration of parcels prior to park development.
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990
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We Gave Our Sons. We gave our ions. .'*i*j. 80 long ago it Menu =.T2Tolboi«"who do not know wet's pain, J"-~-i~ Untroubled in their dreams rr*.:—r:. ■ ""By cannon-scald: \ :-'.-'""'rBat through the mother-heart 'ZSZ1-—-.. -An old ache runs again! " ■■ "'• ?•"""' Our country called: • • " ™ We gave our sons.
MIANTONOMI "MEMORIAL
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Not all came back. Gold stars stud every state Wreaths float in tribute on the seas. Oh, you who sit at ease. •Tis not too late To point a grateful spire. And so commemorate Youth's ardent fire? Not all came back. AJj lltrdt, :
Why Should I.Have a Share in This Memorial? ." "-■-■'1. BECAUSE as a citiien of Newport 1 "wish to keep the faith with those who died" and to honor their memory. 2. BECAUSE the memorial should be "an expression of the love and devotion of the whole people." ' 3. BECAUSE as yet the sum subscribed, is "hot adequate for the. erection of the memorial and I wish to help' in raising the required amount. - ,. "~„ 4. BECAUSE I do not wish my city to be without.a suitable commu- nitv memorial to her war heroea.r
What is the Miantonomi Park. '■ ■ War Memorial? THE PARK. A beautiful park of thirty acres on Miantonomi Hill with trees, and birds, and wild flowers, offering a "wonderful all-round view of land and sea."" THE TOWER. A memorial tower of native stone to be erected ,..-. . . on the summit of the hill to recall thesacrifices' made. _-!i_' : . by the men and boys of Newport who"gave their "uvea"" in the World War. THE BEACON LIGHT. A beacon light.shining from the top of-, the tower, flashing forth a message of remembrance, courage and hope.
Figure 2. Brochure used to solicit funds for construction of the tower.
Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990 TEEK ENDING JUNE 27, 1025
Newport's War Memorial AT LAST Our Opportunity Is Here
H To-Express Our Gratitude and Love it; for Those Who Gave Their Lives m To M a k e U s S a f e
I Let Us Raise $75,000 In Their Name GIVE AS GEHEROUSLY AS THEY GAVE
He)lHael Haioo tnomiParkaFnitigRemnider OfTheriSacfirices BE PREPARED TO DO YOUR FULL PART CAMPAIGN EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE "v
MIANTONOMI MEMORIAL PARK APPEAL
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Figure 3. Display Ad soliciting funds for construction of the tower.
Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990
i'HJS IttWS—MSWVOftff, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6, 1321.
Figure 4. Early publicity photographs for Miantonomi Park, 1921.
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan • August 1990
SITE ANALYSIS AND IMPROVEMENTS INTRODUCTION Recreational activities in Miantonomi Park may take place throughout the park grounds. The park, designed as a World War I Memorial, is not intended for use in City Recreational Programming. Rather, it provides a location for informal active and passive recreational ac tivities. The park's 32 acres may be divided into different activity areas. (See, Map 1) The World War I Memorial Tower is one of Newport's most highly visible landmarks, and is in fact the highest point in Newport. The tower's history is discussed in the Historical Overview section of this plan. The tower's structure is decribed in the Historic Preserva tion Analysis. The tower may be viewed from far off and as such advertises the park's presence to tourists and acts as a magnet to attract visitors to the park. It is clearly visible from Hillside Avenue where parking is located. The section of the park which accommodates active recreation and picnicking is located in the park's eastern section, lying immediately adjacent to Hillside Avenue. It contains a level grass playfield, a picnicking and play area. A substantial portion of Miantonomi Park consists of woodland interlaced with groomed trails which provide opportunities for walking, jogging, birdwatching, and other passive or contemplative activities. Several acres in the south and western areas of the park consist of dense woodland and undergrowth, as well as an abandoned field. All of the above areas are discussed in this chapter of the Plan. They will be described in five sections, relating to their impact on existing and future uses of the park: Historic Preservation Analysis Recreational Facilities Analysis Circulation, Entrances, and Accessibility Analysis Landscape and Topography Analysis Security and Vandalism Analysis
MAP 1. EXISTING CONDITIONS: FACILITIES § USES f IACT1VE RECREATION ^^|PASSIVE RECREATION tggg]NATURAL HABITAT
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990
Each of these areas will be analyzed as to existing conditions, problems and opportunities, and where appropriate, recommended improvements. HISTORIC PRESERVATION ANALYSIS Description of Historic Elements Miantonomi Park Contains a historic building: the World War I Memorial Tower. It was erected in 1929 by the Miantonomi Park Commission after a 5-year fund raising drive. Its design is by noted architects McKim, Mead, and White. The Tower, 80 feet in height, is constructed of native stone and mortar on the highest point of Miantonomi Hill. It is visible from more geographic points than any other spot in the City. Viewed from outside, the tower's cylindrical structure rises in three tiers, progressively nar rower in diameter. The 2 lower tiers contains a viewing platform which circles the struc ture, providing views in all directions. Crenelated battlements at each of these locations form a chest- high wall to prevent falling accidents. One enters the tower through a wrought iron gate located in one of the tall arched openings on the tower's lower level. Once inside, there is a small vestibule from which a concrete cir cular staircase ascends upward to the first viewing platform. This staircase continues to as cend through the second tier of the structure. Small rectangular windows provide light and views as one climbs. Near the top of the tower, a wrought-iron circular staircase leads to the topmost viewing area. The topmost section of the structure is inaccessible to pedestrians and was meant to contain a beacon light 'shining from the top of the tower, flashing forth a message of remembrance, courage, and hope.'lt has small circular windows and a conical pitched roof. There is no glass in the structure's window and door openings, leaving the structure open to the ele ments. An additional historic feature is the low stone wall, approximately 2 feet in height, which marks the eastern border of the park.
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan • August 1990
Problems and Opportunities Over the years, the exposure of the tower's concrete materials to the elements has had detrimental effect. Site visits revealed that rain water is allowed to puddle on the cement stairs. Its slow absorption has led to deterioration of the stairs through corrosive expansion and/or rust of internal reinforcing material. The wrought iron staircase at the top of the structure is also susceptible to rust The presence of vegetation upon the structure is indica tive of deleterious biological activity. Because of the Tower's historical and recreational sig nificance, it is recommended that a professional structural analysis be undertaken on the building to determine the actual extent of damage and recommend appropriate solutions. However, prior to this analysis, interim repairs may be required. An additional threat to the structure is damage through vandalism. During site visits con ducted for this report, the wrought iron gate to the tower was unlocked. Broken bottles and other materials were found in its interior. Graffiti mars the interior walls, the stairway, and surfaces which are accessible from the viewing platforms. This should be cleaned if pos sible with solutions which will not damage the structure. More serious structural damage also appears to be the result of vandalism. One of the bat tlements has been separated from the structure. Flagstone pavers outside the tower's entrance have been removed from their original locations and strewn about. Necessary repairs should be made and most importantly, the gate repaired and more control exercised in providing access to the tower (See, "Security and Vandalism Analysis," below.) The stone wall along Hillside Avenue is damaged in several locations. Stones have been removed and he nearby on the grass. Graffiti is also present on the wall. It is the wish of the present Miantonomi Park Commission to install a flagpole at the top of the tower from which the American Flag may be flown. Due to limited numbers of staff available, daily raising and lowering of the flag may not be feasible. To address this, the feasibility and appropriateness of installation of a spotlight to illuminate the flag at night should be considered. The flag, lit up at night, would be visible from a great distance and would in effect provide the "beacon" which was desired in the original plans for the Memorial.
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan • August 1990
Recommendations The following actions are recommended to address the deficiencies described above. 1. Clean the graffiti on the building's interior and exterior if this may be effectuated without damage to the structure. 2. Conduct a professional structural analysis of the tower. 3. Repair flagstone steps leading to the structure. 4. Replace defective lock on tower gate. 5. Institute a management program for the structure: 6. Install a flagpole at the top of the tower from which the American Flag will be flown. 7. Explore the feasibility of a spotlight to illuminate the flag at night. 8. Make necessary repairs to stone wall at Hillside Avenue. 9. Make minor interim repairs to tower where appropriate. RECREATIONAL FACIIJTIES ANALYSIS Existing Conditions A field 4 acres in size lies at the park's eastern border and provides a location for sports such as football, soccer, or frisbee. Just south of the playfield is a picnicking and play area, provided with 4 heavy gauge wooden picnic tables permanently fixed to the ground. Childrens playground equipment at this location includes two swingsets, a slide, and a jungle gym. The grass in this location is maintained and trees are spaced throughout to pro vide opportunities for sitting in the shade. Men's and women's restrooms, currently non-functional, are located in a small fieldstone structure in the wooded area immediately south of the picnic area. Problems and Opportunities Miantonomi Park serves both neighborhood and community-wide populations. Expansion of active recreational facilities would improve the park's function as a neighborhood park/playground. In the neighborhood, the recreational needs of youths in the 9-12 age
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990
group are accommodated in the City's programming held in the nearby Tomony Playfield. The play/picnic area serves young children. To better meet neighborhood needs, activities in Miantonomi Park should be expanded to serve individuals aged 12 to adult Semi-permanent volleyball poles could be installed in a location near the bottom of Miantonomi Hill in such a fashion so as to minimize their im pact on scenic views of this area. The possibility of installation of a Softball diamond should also be considered to serve families and neighborhood residents who find it difficult, for one reason or another, to participate in City recreational programming. A fitness area providing facilities for exercises could be located in the area at the base of the hill, facing Hillside Avenue. This is a desirable adult recreational activity which would support and enhance jogging opportunities on the park's trails. The childrens play area currently presents a safety hazard to users and is in need of replace ment and repair. The swingsets, slide, and jungle jim were purchased and installed prior to the upgrading of play equipment standards by the National Consumer Product Safety Coun cil. The current equipment does not meet standards in such areas as heights permitted without railings; steepness of slides; and pinch/catch points in swings and slide. Additional ly, the area around the equipment has eroded so that the cement footings are exposed, posing a safety hazard to users. This should be eliminated. The jungle gym should be removed. The distance between bars does not meet safety guidelines and this recreational use presents a liability hazard to the City. The swings and slide should be replaced with improved equipment which meets safety standards. Addition ally, is should be constructed of durable, low- maintenance materials such as steel and aluminum. The facilities are located in a grassy area. The area around the equipment should be replaced by sand fill to minimize injuries from falling as well as to reduce maintenance. The equipment should be replaced with durable, low-maintenance materials such as steel or aluminum. The picnic area is in disrepair. The tables are chipped and broken. They are permanently anchored in a grassy area, precluding effective grass-cutting and maintenance around the base. The tables should be repaired or replaced and the area around their bases be regraded and surfaced with a stone dust fill to reduce maintenance and improve drainage. -13-
Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990
The restrooms, permanently open due to damaged doors, are non-functional, and filled with refuse. In a park of this size restrooms are desirable. However, restrooms require a high level of security and maintenance. The City should determine the feasibility of repair ing the facilities and keeping them open on a part-time basis to serve park users. Recommendations 1. Construct volleyball courts in appropriate locations. 2. Install adult fitness facilities. 3. Replace swingsets and slide with equipment meeting National Consumer Product Safety Council standards. 4. Regrade play and picnic areas and replace grass with appropriate fill. 5. Remove jungle gym. 6. Repair/replace picnic tables where needed. 7. Analyze the feasibility of repair and operation of restrooms. 8. Analyze the feasibility of creating a Softball diamond for family and neighborhood games. SECURITY AND VANDALISM ANALYSIS Miantonomi Park is located in a residential area immediately adjacent to the City's Com mercial-Industrial zone. Adjacent to its northeastern borders is public housing operated by the Housing Authority of Newport: the Park Holm and Tonomy projects. To the southeast is a stable neighborhood of single family homes. On its western border lie two relatively new residential condominium developments, and on its southwestern border are a motel/restaurant and Newport Jai-Lai, a major destination which brings visitors to Newport. Vandalism presents a problem at Miantonomi Park. This issue and its possible solutions are discussed in this section of the Plan. Existing Conditions Miantonomi *Park is officially open during daylight hours; however, the park is accessible 24 hours a day because it is not enclosed by security fencing or a protective wall.
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990
The Tomony housing development is one of the City's higher crime areas. Miantonomi Park's proximity to Tomony has contributed to the perception that the personal safety of park users may be at risk. Vandalized and unrepaired park facilities may contribute further to this perception. Graffiti mars the interior and exterior of the tower as well as the rest rooms. Fragments of the tower have been dislodged and cast on the ground. Broken glass may be found throughout the park. A review of the police log for fiscal year 89/90 reveals 53 emergency calls regarding Mian tonomi Park. Many of these were fire or crime related: 15 were for reported fires or smoke; 12 were for suspicious persons or vehicles; 3 for weapons; 2 for fireworks or ex plosions; and 1 each for larceny and assault. Most occurred between 10:00 A.M. and 8:00 P.M. Based upon this data, crime in the park is a reality, not a perception. Problems and Opportunities Because of its large size, hilly terrain, and tree-covered slopes, much of Miantonomi Park is not visible from the street. This provides seclusion in which illegal acts may occur without perception from the street. The areas around the facilities which have suffered the most from vandalism - the tower and restroom facilities - are partially masked by trees and un dergrowth. Additional trimming and brush removal are recommended to ameliorate these conditions and make the structures more visible. The interiors of the tower and restroom facilities are accessed via wrought iron gates which were open during site inspections conducted in preparation of this report. The interiors of these structures present the greatest opportunities for privacy which can lead to illegal ac tivity; therefore, controlling access is an important step in the reduction of crime. The pos sibility of part time monitors or caretaker/ security personnel should be considered. Increasing the overall recreational and visitor activity levels in the park would help in selfpolicing the park. If more persons are using a park for legitimate activities, it can be as sumed that fewer opportunities for vandalism will occur. Again, the presence of a park monitor or security person during peak hours of park use might expand the park's use by the public. This would also help to ameliorate the public perception of the park as an un safe place to visit.
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan • August 1990
Vehicular access to the park is not easily achieved. The entrance on Hillside Avenue is blocked by a chain and padlock. Although this prevents opportunities for illegal vehicular access, it also prevents access by police cruisers which routinely patrol the neighborhood. It has been suggested that if police cruisers had better access (via park trails) to the tower, vandalism or other illicit activities could be reduced. Given the statistics on fires reported in the park, it is also important for fire trucks to have access. Electricity is currently unavailable in Miantonomi Park and therefore lights are not provided for either security or for night recreational activities. In general practice, security lighting is recommended to deter vandalism in areas visually accessible to the public. Most of the reported crimes in the park occurred during daylight hours. Additionally, much of the park is not visually accessible. Therefore, installation of security lighting in Miantonomi Park is a remedy which should be carefully analyzed both in terms of need, cost and feasibility. Although the erection of security fencing around the park would aid significantly in the con trol of off-hour access to the park, it is not a recommended remedy to the vandalism prob lem. It is important to maintain and encourage access to the park during the hours in which it is open.
Recommendations 1. Trim brush and tree growth to make tower and restroom struc tures more visible from a distance. 2. Control access to restrooms and tower. 3. Consider staffing the park with security/caretaker personnel 4. Seek to increase overall activity levels in the park. 5. Provide vehicular access for police cruisers and emergency vehicles. 6. Study the feasibility of installing security lighting in selected loca tions. 7. Repair facilities to ameliorate negative park image, induce greater use of park.
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990
CIRCULATION, ENTRANCES, AND ACCESSIBILITY ANALYSIS Existing Conditions Miantonomi Park maybe entered through both designated and "informal1' entrances on three of its four boundaries: north, east, and west. (See Map 2). Its southern border on Ad miral Kalbfus Road and part of Girard Avenue is protected by chain link fencing which is partially masked by shrubbery. It's eastern boundary is defined by a low stone wall which is intersected regularly with pedestrian entrances and 1 vehicular entrance. The north and northwestern boundaries are in heavily wooded areas without direct visual access from the street. On these borders, there are no fences, and there exist pathways into the park which have been maintained by constant use of neighborhood residents. A vehicular entrance is located on Hillside Avenue. A locked chain restricts access. The eastern portion of Miantonomi Park is open field and is both physically and visually ac cessible to the public, including the handicapped. Many of the park paths are also wheel chair accessible, although some hills may make passage difficult if not dangerous unless wheelchairs are accompanied by an attendant. There is public parking along the eastern border of the park off Hillside Avenue. This area is served by public transportation and is the location of a RIPTA bus stop. A system of pathways provides circulation throughout the hilly, more heavily wooded areas. Because the park covers a large area and parking is limited to the Hillside Avenue area, trails having the closest proximity to the parking area generally receive the highest use. There are 2 types of trails: those wide enough to accommodate vehicles, and narrower foot paths. Map 2 depicts the paths which are accessible to vehicles, and those which are only ac cessible to pedestrians. For the most part, the paths' grassy surface is moderately well maintained; however, paths located in extreme western areas of the park appear to be kept clear only through public use. In addition to the paths, a stone stairway leads up the steep eastern grade of the hill from the playfield to the tower. This stairway is the most direct means of accessing the toWer from the Hillside Avenue parking area.
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MAP 2. EXISTING CONDITIONS: CIRCULATION, ENTRANCES, § ASSESSIBILITY ^ VEHICULAR ENTRANCE ▶ PEDESTRIAN ENTRANCE VEHICULAR ACCESSIBILITY •» PEDESTRIAN ACCESSIBILITY STONE WALL CHAIN LINK FENCE
MIANTONOMI PARK RENOVATION MASTER PLAN
Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan • August 1990
Problems and Opportunities The chain at Hillside Avenue provides necessary restrictions to motor vehicle access to the park; however, it also restricts desirable access of police cruisers, fire, and emergency vehicles. As mentioned in the Security and Vandalism section of this report, it is important for police cruisers to have access to the park for regular patrol as well as for responding to emergencies. Motor vehicle accessibility to the tower area is particularly important in this regard. To provide quick access to the park, the possible erection of gates or other control devices should be explored. It is important that they be expediently operated by police, emergency, and fire vehicles, as well as by maintenance vehicles. Additionally, those park paths which are wide enough to accommodate motor vehicles should be maintained and kept clear of brush and obstructions so that vehicles can get through. All existing paths are accessible to pedestrians and are reasonably maintained according to their location and frequency of use. The stone stairway, however, presents a safety hazard in its current state. Earth has eroded beneath the stones and some are missing. The dis tance between some of the steps makes them hazardous if not inaccessible to young children and the elderly. There is no hand rail. Future repairs to the park should include replacement of missing stairs and the installation of a hand rail. Recommendations 1. Install easily operable gate or other controls at vehicular entrance. Quick and efficient operation is an important feature in their design. 2. Keep all paths clear of brush and obstructions, particularly paths utilized by motor vehicles. 3. Make necessary repairs to stone stairway leading up to the tower from Hillside Avenue. 4. Install handrail along stairway indicated above.
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan • August 1990
LANDSCAPE AND TOPOGRAPHY ANALYSIS Existing Conditions Miantonomi Park contains some of the most dramatic landscape and topography to be found in the city of Newport. The varying gradients of vegetative density in the park com bine with a hierarchical trail system to maximize the variety of nature experiences which are available to visitors. In effect, one may proceed from a controlled, well maintained environ ment to a natural habitat showing little evidence of man's intervention. Several locations along the paths are noteworthy. A mature grove of birch spreads along the eastern section of the park. Brush has been cleared in this area providing a vista through the white tree trunks. Ranging from 50 to 165 feet above sea level, the park contains level field and rocky forested hillside, and the crest of the hill is formed by a glacial hill, or "drumlin" containing sig nificant deposits of exposed conglomerate rock. The tower is located at the top of the hill whose western,northern and eastern slopes consist of conglomerate rocky outcrop. A path curving around the hill parallel to its topographic contours provides opportunities to inspect the rock formation close at hand. The playfield and picnic area is fairly level, approximately 100 feet above sea level, at the park's eastern section. (See Map 3) Immediately westward of this area, Miantonomi Hill rises in a steep grade to the tower which is at 165 feet. The top of Miantonomi Hill is slight ly over 1 acre in area. Descending from this level, the east, north, and western slopes are severe in grade to an elevation of 120 feet, after which the hill descends in more gradual fashion. The comparatively moderate slope on the hill's southeastern face makes this route the easiest approach to the summit, and provides the location for vehicular and foot trails. Trails may also be found which climb directly up the hill at steeper locations, and which cir cumvent the hill following a path parallel to the topographic contours. There are 4 soils found on the site. Newport silt loam, 1-3% slope (NeA), 3-8% slope (NeB), and Pittstown silt loam, 3-8% slopes (PmB) are well drained soils commonly found in upland areas around glacial drumlins. Topsoils drain quickly with slow or very slow per-
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan • August 1990
meability in the substratum. They are well suited to trees, woodland wildlife habitat, and openland wildlife habitat. The hill itself consists of Canton-Charlton-Rock outcrop com plex, 3-15% slopes (CaC), characterized by exposed bedrock, stones, and boulders. The vegetation of the park is varied, from thick undergrowth in western sections to the groomed playfield in the east The paths lead through a variety of environments charac terized by birch, pine, black cherry, oak, maple, and dogwood. A long shrub of autumn olive marks the southern edge of the park. Reduced accessibility to humans has made the southwestern section of the park a more secluded environment for wildlife. This area, combining overgrown field and woodland en vironments, provides another level of experience for park users, providing young visitors with opportunities for "wilderness exploration" in contrast to the more formal groomed pathways. A small wetland area is located at the northern edge of the park. Although wetland vegeta tion was observed, the area was dry at the time of visits to the site. Problems and Opportunities The steep slopes of the hill have caused erosion problems in the past, particularly on a trail once located on the hill's western slope. This problem was ameliorated in 1977 by the in stallation of logs and fill to create a terraced slope, and relocation of the trail. As indicated in the Circulation Analysis, erosion has been a problem in the stone stairway leading up the eastern side of the hill, undermining some of the stones. However, the heavy vegetation which covers most of the park protects the earth from significant damage. The variety in habitat and topography in Miantonomi Park is a desirable feature. Any sig nificant removal of vegetation should be considered carefully with regard to its effect on erosion, wildlife habitat and ecological diversity in the park grounds. The natural area in the park's southwest section should remain in it's natural state in the foreseeable future. However, future community needs for active or passive recreation should not preclude sensitive development in this area.
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990
Recommendations 1. Inspect exposed areas, particularly pathways, periodically, and im plement preventative maintenance where necessary to prevent erosion. 2. Significant removal of vegetation should only be undertaken if it is shown to have little detrimental effect upon erosion or ecological diversity in the park.
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan • August 1990
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS Each section of the Site Analysis and Improvements section of this report contained recom mendations designed to improve Miantonomi Park and maximize recreational and historic opportunities available to the public. The following actions are recommended to expand and improve historic elements, active and passive recreational opportunities at Miantonomi Park. These recommendations are summarized on Map 4. Historic Preservation: 1. Clean the graffiti on the buildings' interior and exterior if this may be effectuated without damage to the structure. 2 Conduct a professional structural analysis of the tower. 3. Repair flagstone steps leading to the structure. 4. Replace defective lock on tower gate. 5. Institute a management program for the tower. 6. Install a flagpole at the top of the tower from which the American Flag will be flown. 7. Explore the feasibility of a spotlight to illuminate the flag at night 8. Make necessary repairs to stone wall at Hillside Avenue. 9. Make interim repairs to tower as necessary. Active Recreation Facilities 1. Construct volleyball courts in appropriate locations. 2. Install adult fitness facilities. 3. Replace swingsets and slide with equipment meeting National Consumer Safety Council Standards. 4. Re-grade play and picnic areas and replace grass with appropriate fill. 5. Remove jungle gym. 6. Repair/replace picnic tables where needed.
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan - August 1990
7. Analyze feasibility of repair and operation of restrooms. 8. Analyze feasibility of creating a softball diamond for family and neighborhood games. Security and Vandalism 1. Repair facilities to ameliorate negative park image and induce greater use of park. 2. Trim brush and tree growth to make tower and restroom struc tures more visible. 3. Consider staffing the park with security/caretaker personnel. 4. Seek to increase overall activity levels in the park. 5. Provide vehicular access for police cruisers and emergency vehicles. 6. Study the feasibility of installing security lighting in selected loca tions. 7. Control access to restrooms and tower. Circulation, Entrances, and Accessibility Analysis 1. Install easily operable gate or other controls at vehicular entrance. Quick and efficient operation is an important feature in their design. 2. Keep all paths clear of brush and obstructions, particularly paths utilized by motor vehicles. 3. Make necessary repairs to stone stairway leading up the east side of the hill to the tower. 4. Install handrail along stairway indicated above. Landscape and Topography Analysis 1. Inspect exposed areas, particularly pathways, periodically, and im plement preventative maintenance where necessary to prevent erosion. 2. Significant removal of vegetation should only be undertaken if it is shown to have little detrimental effect upon erosion or ecological diversity in the park.
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MAP 3.
EXISTING CONDITIONS: LANDSCAPE ยง TOPOGRAPHY [^^TOPOGRAPHIC CONTOURS DENSE WOODLAND PARTIALLY CLEARED WOODLAND FIELD, SOME TREES PRESENT OPEN FIELD EgpySJABANDONED FIELD WETLAND
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MIANTONOMI PARK RENOVATION MASTER PLAN
NEWPORT. 1HODE ISLAND OUTDOOR BECSEATIOK FACILITY INVENTORT N a a e : P a r k H o l a P l e v fl e l d
Plat/Lot
N a a e : To n o a y P l a y A r e a
Plat/Lot 3/9 (p»rt)
Type
Land Arts sporoi. A.3 aero*
Type of Facility playlot
Land Area .73 acres
Planning Dlatrlct 1 Hbhd. 1*
Wat Araa
Planning Dlatrlct 1 Nbhd. 1«
■et Area
Loe•t1on Hillside A»enu«
E a t l a a t a d C a p a c i t y.
Location Clrard Ave. t Sins St.
Estimated Capacity 33
of
Facility
o l a y fl e l d
5/3
NEWPORT. RHODE ISLAND OUTDOOR RECREATION FACILITY INVENTORY
ftsrt)
100
Sarvlec Araa homing project arts
Service Ares housing pro leet .r
Own er Newport Housing Authority
Owner Newport Housing AuthorltT
2 b a s k e t b a l l c o u r t s : b a a e b a l l fi e l d : b a c k s t o p
3 swings: 3 ploy apparatus: play area
Date
Date
10/67
10/67
Masse; Coddlngton H'vit Little League Field Type of Facility plaviiold
Plat/Lot
Planning Dlatrlct 1 Nbhd. 1A
Va t A r a a
Planning Dlatrlct1 Hbhd. U
Wa t A r a a
Location Coddlngton Highway
Eatlaatad Capacity 250
L o c a 11 o n C l r a r d A v e n u e
E a t l a a t a d C a p a c i t y.
Land Area
and Maple Avenue
2/13
^
3.03 acres
N a a e : To n o a y P l a v fi e l d
Plat/Lot
Type
Land Araa appro*. 6 acres
of
Facility
o l a v fl e l d
Service Area several neighborhoods and leagues
Owner CltT
3/9
(parti
Owner Newport Housing AuthorltT
60' baseball dlaaond: concession atandt drinking fountain; ahelter;
2 b a s k e t b a l l e o o r t s : b a a e b a l l d l a w o n d t l n f o r a a l p l e v a r e a : s p o r t s fi t ' . :
toilet: erandstand - 200 oeata: CltT doesn't sialntaln
Pate
Date
10/87
Naae; Hlantonoal Park
Plat/Lot
3/12.52
200
Service Area housing project at..
A/10
Itat:
1
10/87
Featlval
Field
fl a t / L o t
A/79
"
T y p e o f F a c i l i t y a a l o r p e r k L a n d A r a a I S a c r e s o p e n o l a y fl e l d 13 acres woods Planning District 1 Hbhd. 13. I* Wet Araa
Type of Facility plaTlots
L a n d aArree aa k1 .2m . 0u0 u0 s o a ... iftt -.
Planning Dlatrlct 1 Nbhd. 13
Ve t * r e a
Location Clrard I Hillside Avea. Eetlasted CaoacltT 1.000
Location Clrard Avenue
E a t l ai a t a d
S e r v i c e A r a a C l t T. v i s i t o r s , Owner CltT
housing projects
J Capacity
30
4
Service Area Owner City
_ • tone t o w e r : t o l l e t f a c i l i t i e s : w a t e r f o u n t a i n : 6 p i c n i c t a b l e s :
•outh lot: A ewlnes: baaketball hoop: open lawn
p l a v g r o u n d a r e a : Hah e r C e n t e r
north lot: A ewlnss: slide: open lawn
ad laeent : Comalas Ion f o r o a r k : CoajaunltT
—-
Developaent pro jeet
Date
10/87
Pate
10/87
..M a a e : T h i r d S t r e e t To t l o t
Plat/Lot.
Type of Facility olavlot
Land Area appro*. 1 acre
9/A13
Planning Dlatrlct 1 Nbhd. 13
We t A r a a
Location Third St. at Kt. 138
E s t i m a t e d C a p a c i t y.
crossing
30
Naae: Sullivan School
Plat/Lot
Type of Facility olavlot
Land Araa 2 acres
Planning Dlatrlct 1 Hbhd. 12
Vat Araa,
Location Defter Street
Eatlaatad CapacltT 200
Service Area neighborhood Servlco Arsa atudsnta. n*lS2&
Owner State - CltT less* Owner
CltT
3 cllabjng aposrstus. 2 benches: 2 picnic tables: sandbox: slide: A awlnea: culvert crawl: A sprint anlaale: cartoon cutouts on fenee
Dan
10/87
3/33
paved ares: painted eaaes
Date
10/67
^
>
■.'■■■.^aS^^r*?.-' ;•
MAP 4. MIANTONOMI PARK RENOVATION MASTER PLAN f |ACTIVE RECREATION
E2£||PASSIVE RECREATION fcfrare.NATURAL HABITAT
Hittt'^t
MIANTONOMI PARK RENOVATION MASTER PLAN
Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Ran - August 1990
IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM This implementation program defines the steps which must be taken to complete the rehabilitation of Miantonomi Park. Sources of Funds In 1987 the citizens of the City of Newport approved an Open Space and Recreation Bond Issue providing $1,000,000 for improvements to recreational facilities and the purchase of open space. These funds were to be matched on a one-to-one basis with State Open Space and Recreation Bond Funds which also passed in 1987. An additional $250,000 was specifi cally identified for the historic renovation of Freebody and Miantonomi Parks. Of this, $200,000 was to be used at Freebody and $50,000 at Miantonomi Park. Implementation Procedures and Timeline The implementation of the Miantonomi Park renovations may be placed into two categories, short and long term. They will be undertaken in 2 phases. Phase I: $50,000 This phase, to be undertaken with funds immediately available, will include projects which focus on the repair and replacement of existing facilities; the expansion of recreational op portunities for neighborhood residents; improvements to the tower and stone wall; the reduction of vandalism; and improved accessibility to police and emergency vehicles. Phase I implementation may be divided into 2 categories: improvements and management practices. Physical Improvements 1. Replace locks to restrict access to tower and restrooms. 2. Install flagpole on tower. 3. Explore alternative lighting systems to illuminate the tower and American Flag at night. 4. Make necessary repairs to stone wall on Hillside Avenue. 5. Construct volleyball courts in appropriate locations.
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Miantonomi Park Renovation Master Plan • August 1990
6. Replace swingsets and slide. 7. Repair/replace picnic tables. 8. Trim brush around tower and restrooms. 9. Improve lock/gate system at vehicular entrance. 10. Keep all paths clear of obstructions. 11. Make repairs to stone steps on eastern side of Miantonomi HOI. 12. Make minor interim repairs to tower where appropriate. Management 1. Instruct police and emergency vehicles regarding means to enter park at Hillside Avenue. 2. Control access to restrooms and tower. 3. Periodically inspect exposed areas and implement preventative maintenance to prevent erosion. Phase II: $300,000 Phase II involves long term actions which will require additional funding from sources not identified at this time. It may be assumed that the Miantonomi Park Commission or New port Clean and Green, a civic improvement organization, will initiate a capital fund drive to provide needed funds. Implementation measures occurring in Phase II require further study to determine their feasibility, cost, and specific actions required. They are listed below. 1. Analyze feasibility of repair and operation of restrooms. 2. Consider staffing park with security/caretaker personnel. 3. Hire professional to undertake structural analysis of tower and identify needed renovations/preventative maintenance. 4. Install adult fitness facilities. 5. Analyze need and feasibility of creating Softball diamond for fami ly and neighborhood games. 6. Study the feasibility of security lighting. V.
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