Kohler Ridge Park Master Plan by omnesstudio

KOHLERPARKRIDGE JULY 25, 2022 MASTER PLAN

01 05 020304 0607FACILITYANDBACKGROUNDPARTICIPATIONPUBLICSUMMARYEXECUTIVEINFOACTIVITY&ANALYSIS DESIGN MAINTENANCEAND SITE INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS DEVELOPMENTPHASEDCOSTCONSIDERATIONSDESIGNESTIMATEANDCAPITALPLANPage 4 Page 46 Page 10 Page 26 Page 30 Page 58 Page 106 CONTENTS

THE SITE In the late 1800s, the steep hillside that is now slated to be the site of Kohler Ridge Park (located at 2007 Brickyard Road) was home to a brick manufacturing plant with a slate quarry and brick kilns, active until the plant’s closure in 1913. The 25.7-acre site is now covered by forest, open meadow, and a wetland, and it is bordered by an active Norfolk-Southern rail, reservoir, and Sunoco gas pipeline. The western portion of the site holds a single-family residence that has fallen into disrepair. Despite its industrial history, the setting offers a unique place for a nature-based, community-centered park.

The Kohler Ridge Park Master Plan was developed through a partnership between South Whitehall Township (SWT) and a planning team led by Omnes, a landscape architecture, planning, and art studio in Easton, PA.

PURPOSE, GOALS, AND OBJECTIVES

SUMMARYEXECUTIVE

Omnes’ design for the park uses forest and meadow regeneration to activate the park and frame views that sprawl out toward the focal point of Kittatinny Ridge in the distance, while also introducing moments for art and play within the forest. As you traverse the site, sit, and climb, you become oriented within not just this park, but the greater landscape of the Lehigh Valley and Blue Mountains, a seemingly endless range of azure to the north. Old farmhouses on treelined properties to the south are surrounded by new homes, contributing to a sense of an actively evolving neighborhood identity.

The master plan was initiated by SWT to develop a park design and long-range phasing plan that tie together three parcels recently acquired by the Township. The park will introduce a nature-based passive park experience in SWT, establishing a place for

5 residents to engage with nature and ecology in their own community. Since SWT first conceived of the project, Kohler Ridge has always been imagined as a nature-based, passive park

Kohlerexperience.Ridge is designed as an accessible, inclusive place to engage with nature. The plan introduces prioritized ADA-accessible pathways in the core of the park, as well as in overlooks that envelop users in the canopies of the forest. Thoughtful insertions of active programming such as play and environmental education engage a broad range of visitors. The plan was formed through an innovative community engagement process, inviting the voices of all in South Whitehall to inform the design. Through iterative discussions and surveys, the plan connects the dots between community ambitions and concerns to form a resolute vision for a park that will welcome all.

The phasing and funding of the project will be incremental in nature, as budgets and funding allow in coming years.

The establishment of Kohler Ridge Park within the existing landscapes of forest, meadow, and wetlands is an opportunity to engage with what is elemental in the landscape, revealing the cycles of disturbance and regeneration that have formed this plot of land. Kohler Ridge Park’s design is rooted in ecological analysis and a thorough understanding of this complex landscape. Through management of the site’s forest, transitional forest edge, meadow, and wetland, the land and its soils can be conserved for future generations. This ethical approach to land development is an important commitment made by SWT, especially in the face of population growth within the Township and the greater Lehigh Valley.

The site of Kohler Ridge Park, outlined in red. The 25.7-acre park includes three individual parcels united as one.

• Felicia Bechtel, Geophysics Service Area Director, RETTEW

• Evan Opall, Project Manager and Consultant, Dharam Consulting

A steering committee worked directly with the Omnes planning team to provide resources, feedback, and guidance throughout the planning process. The members of the Steering Committee included:

• Zack Everett, Consultant, Dharam Consulting • Robbyn Glisson, Associate, Dharam Consulting

• Tim Marshall, Principal, ETM Associates

STEERING COMMITTEE

• Desiree Liu, Project Manager & Senior Operations Analyst, ETM Associates

• David Manhardt, AICP, Director of Community Development

COMMUNITY MEMBERS AND KEY PERSON INTERVIEWEES Community members who took part in engagement events generated 541 survey responses. Key people contributed creative and technical resources to the plan, lending their perspectives, expertise, and time for interviews and collaboration with the planning team. These include:

• The general public of South Whitehall Township, who contributed their thoughts and feedback for the plan at public meetings, via an online survey, and during engagement activities and conversations with the planning team that took place at community movie nights and concerts hosted by SWT in summer 2021.

• Carson Fisk-Vittori, Landscape Designer, Omnes • Sheila M. Fuentes, Editor & Researcher, Omnes

• Herb Bender, Public Works Manager, South Whitehall Township • Gwen Davis, Neighbor • Kate Ebel, Senior Environmental Scientist, Wildlands Conservancy

• Randy Cope, Interim Township Manager and Treasurer • Mike Kukitz, SWT Parks and Recreation Manager (& Plan Project Manager)

• Richard Hartlieb, Assistant District

• Sara Harmon, Landscape Designer, Omnes • Makio Yamamoto, Landscape Designer, Omnes

The community engagement and resulting vision described in this report were completed by Omnes, the lead designer and planner. Maintenance and Operations planning was completed by ETM Associates, and the cost opinion was developed by Dharam Consulting. The planning team included : • Laura Stedenfeld, Principal, Omnes

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

• Simon Hough, Director, Dharam Consulting

• Keisha Champagnie, SWT Green Advisory Council

• Emily Hahn Van Wagoner, Project Manager and Senior Landscape Designer, Omnes

• Marie North, CSBA, SWT Green Advisory Council PLANNING CONSULTANTS

PROJECT FUNDING

Native aster in bloom in the existing meadow at the site of Kohler Ridge Park.

7 Forester, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources • Laura Hopek, Environmental Education and Outreach Coordinator, Lehigh County Conservation District • Janet Kehnel, Former landowner of a significant parcel within Kohler Ridge Park • Mark Leuthe, President, Lehigh Engineering • Michael McGraw, Senior Wildlife Biologist and Ecologist, RES • Alicia Ruscitto, Regional Real Estate Manager, Norfolk Southern • Robert Stiffler, Director of Parks, County of Lehigh

This project was financed in part by a grant from the Community Conservation Partnerships Program, Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund and/or Environmental Stewardship Fund, under the administration of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation.

KOHLER RIDGE PARK PROPOSED PARK PLAN WINTERSUMMER&WINTERWINDSWINDS ECO BARN & FOREST GARDEN WILLOW GROVE NATURE PLAYWETLANDPARKINGEXISTINGRESIDENTIALPROPERTYBOARDWALKS WOODYLEARNINGGROVEOLDFIELDS FORESTED BUFFER FORESTEDBUFFER OVERLOOKSQUARRYBRICKNATURALLOWLANDSWALESCULPTURELOCATION

PROJECT SURVEY

Omnes created and implemented two digital project surveys for the plan. The first was launched at the beginning of the project and asked residents about the activities and site features they wanted to see within the park. This survey received 214 responses, and its results are shown on pages 16-18. The second survey was launched after three conceptual approaches to program were developed based on results from the initial survey. This second survey received 147 responses and its results are shown on pages 20-23. The team developed and made available paper surveys for individuals and families

PARTICIPATIONPUBLIC

Omnes’ collaborative and engaging design process connects the dots between people, ideas, and contexts to yield powerful, timeless spaces. The name Omnes means “all, together” in Latin, and is the basis of the studio’s design approach. In an inventive public engagement process for Kohler Ridge Park, Omnes integrated art, events, surveys, digital communication, and social media to create wide-ranging discussions with community members about their ambitions and concerns for a new nature-based park. This outreach yielded a large amount of feedback that directly guided the design discourse for the master plan. The team received 541 formally recorded responses, and engaged in both formal and informal discussions with community members throughout the planning process. Despite challenges associated with the COVID-19 public health crisis, the planning team adapted and established creative methods for stakeholder and public engagement.

PUBLIC EVENTS During the planning process, Omnes took part in public meetings and events to present and discuss initial programming ideas, conceptual plans, and the final master plan. These events included both Zoom meetings and in-person events, offering residents a number of ways to learn about the project and be heard by the planning team. At inperson events, Omnes representatives talked with and answered questions from residents. Residents also completed paper surveys and "dot-voting" worksheets, and took home informational postcards, which included the project’s SWT website URL. Young children’s perspectives were captured in part through a “My Big Idea for Kohler Ridge Park” drawing sheet. Omnes also offered gift card raffle drawings from local businesses to incentivize residents to complete surveys.

NO. DATE PUBLIC EVENTS 1 4/17/21 Fishing Derby 2 4/22/21 Public Meeting No. 1 3 6/4/21 Movie Night @ 4320 Farm Drive 4 6/25/21 Concert @ Covered Bridge Park, Billy Joel Tribute Band 5 7/23/21 Concert @ Covered Bridge Park, Philadelphia Funk Authority 6 10/9/21 South Whitehall Township Fall Festival 7 11/13/21 Kohler Ridge Park Walking Tour - Hike and Discussion 8 11/30/21 Kohler Ridge Park Master Plan Public Meeting without access to the internet. These were offered at public events in the Township and at a kiosk location in Covered Bridge Park, and were also available at the SWT building, where members of the public were able to fill out and submit the paper surveys on-site during the planning process period. These paper surveys were then entered into the digital format manually by Omnes and SWT.

11 SWT residents talked with the planning team and completed park surveys at a neighborhood movie night in South Whitehall Township in June 2021.

12 PUBLIC MEETING NO. 2 NOVEMBER 30, 2021 FINAL MASTER PLAN REPORT AVAILABLE ON TOWNSHIP WEBSITE SUMMER 2022 CONCEPT ENGAGEMENT - 156 PARTICIPANTS (147 FORMAL SURVEY RESPONSES) PUBLIC MEETING NO. 1 APRIL 22, 2021 27 PARTICIPANTS FISHING DERBY @ COVERED BRIDGE PARK APRIL 17, 2021 21 PARTICIPANTS ONLINE SURVEY APRIL 21 - SEPT 7, 2021 127 PARTICIPANTS FALL FESTIVAL @ COVERED BRIDGE PARK OCTOBER 9, 2021 95 PARTICIPANTS WALKING TOUR @ KOHLER RIDGE PARK SITE NOVEMBER 13, 2021 9 PARTICIPANTS ONLINE CONCEPT SURVEY OCTOBER 18 - NOVEMBER 22, 2021 52 PARTICIPANTS INITIAL ENGAGEMENT - 358 PARTICIPANTS (214 FORMAL SURVEY RESPONSES) COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SCHEDULE APRIL – NOVEMBER 2021 - 541 TOTAL PARTICIPANTSMOVIE NIGHT @ 4320 FARM DRIVE - JUNE 4, 2021 79 PARTICIPANTS CONCERT @ COVERED BRIDGE PARK - JUNE 25, 2021 96 PARTICIPANTS CONCERT @ COVERED BRIDGE PARK - JULY 23, 2021 35 PARTICIPANTS

COMMUNITY FEEDBACK 4/22/2021 - PUBLIC MEETING NO. 1 27 PARTICIPANTS

The first public meeting was held virtually via Zoom. Omnes presented initial inventory and analysis, as well as precedents for potential ecological and programming strategies. The team utilized an interactive polling software during the meeting, providing opportunities for the audience to send and see real-time feedback related to parks and the plan; the results are below.

DATA SYNTHESIS

• 78% percent of participants wanted to see a canopy walk or viewing tower in the park.

The Omnes team synthesized the information gleaned from participants feedback to include the following design guidelines:

• Residents did not desire a water feature.

• A conservatory or place for refreshments was desired as a structure in the park (33%). To keep the park’s goal of being nature-based, the team included these elements within a flexible education/ community use.

• Log/boulder climbing structures (45%) or a tree house (40%) were the toprated elements to create a nature play experience.

• Participants confirmed that the park should mostly be open meadow and pathways (73%) with ecologically rich pollinator gardens (53%).

• Art/sculpture integration is desired (67%).

COMMUNITY FEEDBACK 6/22/21 - 10/18/21 SURVEY NO. 1 RESPONSES 214 TOTAL RESPONSES

The first project survey yielded 214 responses, and was launched at the beginning of the project. These results allowed the planning team to develop early ideas about ecological and programming strategies that were later presented at Public Meeting No. 2.

• Top-rated activities that were applicable to a goal of developing a passive, nature-based park included walking/ running on trails (77%), picnicking (33%), play equipment (33%), and relaxing in a garden (32%).

• Since 71% of residents will drive, the park should accommodate parking for users.

• Site elements such as pollinator gardens (47%), tree walks (39%), restoration (36%), and vistas (35%) were highly rated.

DATA SYNTHESIS

• Performances were highly rated at 33%, but this did not meet the goal for a passive park. The Steering Committee/ Omnes agreed that large performance should remain at other significant neighborhood parks in SWT.

The Omnes team synthesized the information gleaned from community responses to include the following guidelines in the design:

COMMUNITY FEEDBACK 6/22/21 - 10/18/21 SURVEY NO. 1 RESPONSES 214 TOTAL RESPONSES

KOHLER RIDGE PARK

18 The Poconos Camp Trexler Site Reservation South Mountain ParkD+L Trail Jordan Creek pkwy Lehigh Parkway Saucon Rail Trail ConservancyWildlands Jacobsburg State Park Lehigh Wildlife Gap Green Lane Park Ironton Rail Trail WhitehallRoseAllentownPkwyGardens South Whitehall Chase TroutLil’ParkLe-HiNurseryBob RodaleLoneCyclingLane Park Trexler Nature Preserve Lehigh Valley Zoo Covered Bridge Park Trexler Memorial Park Appalachian Trail Leaser Lake The Pinnacle Hawk Mountain Jacobsburg State Park

The initial project survey also included an inquiry about where people spend their recreation time in South Whitehall and beyond. 214 people answered this question. A visual survey was also offered that included precedent images outlining different program elements, and was popular with children and others who did not want to read/write to complete a survey. 105 people completed this part of the survey.

LOCATION “WHEN YOU WANT TO SPEND TIME IN NATURE, WHERE DO YOU GO?”

LOCATIONS WITHIN SOUTH WHITEHALL TOWNSHIP HIGHLIGHTED

19 DOT VOTING - WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE OR DO AT KOHLER RIDGE PARK? COMMUNITY FEEDBACK 6/04/21 - 7/23/21 KOHLER RIDGE DOT-VOTING SURVEY 105 TOTAL RESPONSES TOP 6 CHOICES 39 VOTES44 VOTES 58 VOTES 51 VOTES68 VOTES TOP CHOICE 29 VOTES DATA SYNTHESIS

• The second-most popular image was an long embankment slide embedded in a hill (58 responses).

• The third-most popular image included a naturalistic water feature and overlook area with native stone (51 responses).

RUSTIC TREE HOUSE AND ELEVATED WALK MODERNWALKCANOPY EMBANKMENT SLIDE WATER FEATURE ZIP LINE ROCK CLIMBING

• SWT’s Covered Bridge Park was the top destination for recreation. Anecdotally, many told the design team that the new playground was a great destination for children and their families.

• The top precedent image (68 responses) depicted a tree house with a walkway.

The Omnes team synthesized the information gleaned from community responses to include the following design guidelines:

20 Fertile soil Rocky soil CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLLCLLCLLCLLCLLCLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL RESERVOIR HUCKLEBERRY ROAD BRICKYARD ROAD HIGHPRESSUREPETROLEUMPIPELINE(SUNOCO) CATASAUQUAANDFOGELSVILLERAILRAOD EDGEOFFOREST MEADOW FIREBREAK Parking Parking Parking VisualBuffer /BermWetland Buffer Birch fern community Ferns + Flowering plants Pine ForestOak PlantSuccessionalCommunity Dry Forest Garden OutdoorMeadowRestoredClassroomPicnic area PlayNatural ZoneRegenerationForest Seating and Signage along paths ZoneRegenerationForest MeadowMowed CenterEducationNature 1 - ENHANCED ECOSYSTEMS MINIMAL WALKING/RUNNINGOPTION TRAILS ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION https://omnes.typeform.com/report/XdyS28mg/sPoiF8PdINgApOFq?view_mode=print 1/1 SCULPTED EXPERIENCE 24 resp. 16.3% ENHANCED ECOSYSTEMS 23 resp. 15.6% 15.6% / 23 RESP. Fertile soil Rocky soil CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLLCLLCLLCLLCLLCLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL RESERVOIR HUCKLEBERRY ROAD BRICKYARD ROAD HIGHPRESSUREPETROLEUMPIPELINE(SUNOCO) CATASAUQUAANDFOGELSVILLERAILRAOD EDGEOFFOREST MEADOW FIREBREAK Parking Parking Parking VisualBuffer /BermWetland Buffer Birch fern community Ferns + Flowering plants Pine ForestOak PlantSuccessionalCommunity Dry ForestPlayNatural AreaPicnic Small pavilions / Folly AreaPicnic AreaPicnic Learning+CraftGarden MeadowPollinator Sculpture in the woodsBrick kiln ruins ClassroomOutdoor ClimbingRock HouseTree Big Slides StructureOverlook Quarry Bridge + Canopy Walk TowersSwiftChimney CenterEducationNature DogFencedRun PlayFlexibleField 2 - WHIMSICAL WOODLAND DISTRIBUTED PLAY STORIED PLAYFULADVENTURESSTRUCTURES 11/29/21, 4:20 PM Kohler Ridge Park Concepts Kohler Ridge Park Concepts 147 responses WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE CONCEPT? Take a look at the park concepts here: 147https://www.southwhitehall.com/home/showpublisheddocument/1511 WHIMSICAL WOODLAND 100 resp. 68% SCULPTED EXPERIENCE 24 resp. 16.3% ENHANCED ECOSYSTEMS 23 resp. 15.6% out of 147 answered 68.0% / 100 RESP. COMMUNITY FEEDBACK 10/9/2021 - 11/22/21 SWT FALL FESTIVAL CONCEPT SURVEY + ONLINE SURVEY 147 PARTICIPANTS

21 Fertile soil Rocky soil CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLLCLLCLLCLLCLLCLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL RESERVOIR HUCKLEBERRY ROAD BRICKYARD ROAD HIGHPRESSUREPETROLEUMPIPELINE(SUNOCO) CATASAUQUAANDFOGELSVILLERAILRAOD EDGEOFFOREST MEADOW FIREBREAK Parking Parking Parking VisualBuffer /BermWetland Buffer Birch fern community Ferns + Flowering plants Pine ForestOak PlantSuccessionalCommunity Dry Forest ClassroomOutdoorEntranceSculptural Overlook InstallationSculpturalSolarLandArt/Sculpture SculptureInteractive Canopy Walk Picnic Area ClearingForest FeatureWater PlayNatural GardenSun PlayFlexibleArea ForestFood ConcessionsGathering/Community MeadowPollinator MeadowPollinator https://omnes.typeform.com/report/XdyS28mg/sPoiF8PdINgApOFq?view_mode=print 1/1 WHIMSICAL WOODLAND 100 resp. 68% SCULPTED EXPERIENCE 24 resp. 16.3% ENHANCED ECOSYSTEMS 23 resp. 15.6% 16.3% / 24 RESP. 3 - SCULPTED EXPERIENCE SCULPTURAL INTERVENTIONS VISTAS AND VIEWS SUBLIME LANDSCAPE

• Restoration of native plants

• A treehouse overlook

SCULPTED EXPERIENCE

• Community gathering / concessions

COMMUNITY FEEDBACK 10/9/2021 - 11/22/21 SWT FALL FESTIVAL CONCEPT SURVEY + ONLINE SURVEY 147 PARTICIPANTS

Omnes integrated feedback from the initial survey and five public events, and developed conceptual programming plans. All of these plans offered the opportunity to be in the meadow/forest, walk/run on trails, and enjoy seating areas throughout the site. Whimsical Woodland was the most selected option, with an overwhelming 68% percent of participant votes. Each concept organized programming in a distinct way, outlined below.

ENHANCED ECOSYSTEMS

This concept was considered the “baseline” scheme that focused on ecological restoration and education. Distinct program

•included:Ayear-round nature education center

• Pollinator gardens for birds, bees and butterflies

Residents check out project information and complete surveys during the Fall Festival in South Whitehall Township, October 2021.

•included:Ayear-round nature education center

This curated experience focused on siting sculpture and artistic site elements in the landscape. The concept included:

Focusing on play and a sense of discovery, this option was the one selected to move forward. Because of its play elements, it was very popular with families. Site elements

• Picnic area • “Nature play” equipment such as long slides, a zipline, and climbing elements

• Tree canopy walk and overlooks

• Gardens • Nature-centered art & sculpture

WHIMSICAL WOODLAND

23 1. KIDS - 10 MENTIONS 2. NATURAL PLAY - 8 MENTIONS 3. WATER FEATURES - 7 MENTIONS 4. TREE HOUSE - 6 MENTIONS 5. PLAY AREA - 6 MENTIONS 6. CANOPY WALK - 5 MENTIONS 7. BIG SLIDE - 4 MENTIONS 8. OUTDOOR CLASSROOM - 4 MENTIONS 9. NATURAL PLAY AREA - 3 MENTIONS 10. DOG PARK - 3 MENTIONS 11. DOG RUN - 3 MENTIONS 12. OVERLOOK - 3 MENTIONS 13. VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES - 2 MENTIONS 14. NATURE EDUCATION CENTER2 MENTIONS 15. LOT OF PLAY - 2 MENTIONS 16. FOREST ELEMENTS - 2 MENTIONS 17. FOREST AREA - 2 MENTIONS 18. HIKING TRAIL - 2 MENTIONS 19. PLAY EQUIPMENT - 2 MENTIONS TOPICS WITH MORE THAN ONE MENTION FALL FESTIVAL CONCEPT SURVEY WRITTEN FEEDBACK - 63 RESPONSES KIDS NATURAL PLAY NATURAL PLAY AREA DOG PARK DOG RUN OVERLOOK NATURE EDUCATION CENTERLOTOF PLAY FOREST ELEMENTS FOREST AREA HIKING TRAIL PLAY EQUIPMENTVARIETY OF ACTIVITIES WATER FEATURES TREE OUTDOORHOUSECLASSROOMPLAY CANOPYAREAWALKBIGSLIDE

DATA SYNTHESIS

The Omnes team synthesized the discussion with the tour attendees:

The SWT and Omnes team with attendees of “A Walk in the Park” at the Kohler Ridge site. Not all attendees pictured. IN

• Neighbors emphasized their desire to maintain the bucolic nature of the site, and for Kohler Ridge to become a passive, nature-based park. SWT and Omnes assured the residents of these goals and plan outcomes, and described the passive feature of the site.

• Neighbors shared anecdotes and memories that were of interest to the design team, including information about the existing structure, family recollections, and information about how the site impacts the views from the neighboring houses.

COMMUNITY FEEDBACK 11/13/2021 - A WALK

• The proposed buffer around the park is an important feature to provide a visual amenity to neighbors, while also attenuating any noise that could come from the park.

After advertising the public invitation via website, social media, and in-person community events, Omnes and SWT held a public site walk in November 2021. Residents were able to register for the walk via email and phone, and 9 participants (of 12 RSVPs) attended the walk; a majority were neighbors from directly adjacent neighborhoods. Janet Kehnel also attended, providing background information about the site that she recalled from her family’s former ownership.

THE PARK 9 PARTICIPANTS

Omnes advertised the event in print, social media, and through sign-up sheets at events that preceded the tour.

• Livable Landscapes A Park, Recreation, Open Space, Agricultural and Historic Lands Plan for Lehigh County, Lehigh Valley Planning Commission, October 2017.

EXISTING PLANNING DOCUMENTS

The team referred to existing planning documents as a grounding for design decisions. Key documents included:

BACKGROUND INFO AND ACTIVITY +

PARKS AND OPEN SPACE

• South Whitehall ComprehensiveTownshipPlan:ABalanced Path Forward, July 2009.

The star of South Whitehall Township’s existing park network is the large and wellused Covered Bridge Park. In addition to this highly programmed and well-loved park, there are a host of smaller neighborhood pocket parks and public open spaces located just a few minutes away from the site of Kohler Ridge Park. SWT’s existing parks offer many active recreation opportunities for residents of the Township. Kohler Ridge Park is conceived of as a purposefully unique anomaly within this network – rather than serving up another highly programmed location, Kohler Ridge offers a passive nature-based park experience. DEMOGRAPHICS SWT is a majority white population, with 17.1% non-white population. The median household income is higher than surrounding townships and cities, as are educational attainment levels. In an effort to reach the broadest diversity of residents, the planning team’s engagement strategy included plugging into a range of community activities to meet and hear from residents in the places and events where they already gather.

FACILITY ANALYSIS

27 BRIDGECOVEREDPARKFUTURE KOHLER RIDGE PARK HUCKLEBERRY RD LIMEKILNRD LAPPRD WALBERT AVE BRICKYARDRD ROUTE309 WEHR MILL RD IRONBRIDGERD NCEDARCRESTBLVD PATURNPIKE NORFOLKSOUTHERNRR JORDAN CREEK GREENWAY RACE AND HISPANIC ORIGIN orHispanicWhite78.3%18.1%Latino33.4%Black2 Asian6.2%2 moreTwo6.2%orRaces AlaskaIndianAmerican0.1%andNative2 1 Not Hispanic or Latino 2 Includes persons only reporting one race 3 Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in applicable race categories Not Shown - 0.0% Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD SIZE 2.49 in 2020 dollars MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME $85,540 POP. 19,180 50.8%POPULATION51.6% - GENDER PERCENT OF PERSONS AGE 25% YEARS+ 2016-2020 PERCENT OF PERSONS AGE 25% YEARS+ 2016-2020 EDUCATION HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE OR HIGHER BACHELOR’S DEGREE OR HIGHER93.8%44.0% AGE PERSONS UNDER 5 YEARS PERSONS UNDER 18 YEARS PERSONS 65 YEARS AND OVER23.6%22.4%5.3% Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, QuickFacts South Whitehall township, Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/southwhitehalltownshiplehighcountypennsylvania

28 15 16 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1817 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 HighParklandSchool OrefieldMiddleSchool IzaakGunRodWaltonandClub ParklandSouthYouthAssociationSoftballFieldsSwimWestwoodPlaygroundandOpenSpaceHeightsClub Cedar ElementaryClubhouseFarmsCreekParkwayManorSchoolLivingParklandManorAssistedFacility CountyLehighSportsFields WildwaterParkDorneyandKingdom CreekCedarEastElementaryCetroniaSchool GuthsvilleRodandGunClub JuniorTroxellHighSchool KratzerSchool COMMUNITY PARKS Covered Bridge Park Kohler Ridge POCKET PARKS Bungalow Park Cedar Creek Farms Devon Circle Park Fernwood MarthaJocobyHampshireGroveGrandlawnParkParkStreetParkCourtParkParkNolanMemorial Park South Whitehall Chase Park Spring Valley Estates Park Springhouse West Park The Vistas Park The Vistas WinchesterPlaygroundHeightsPark OPEN SPACE CedarBeverlyCrest Gardens WedgewoodTwinStoneridgeParklandGoldenDeerfieldOaksDriveterraceGrove 21 17161514131211109876543 2524232221201918 WALBERTU.S.ROUTE22AVE HUCKLEBERRY ROAD CATASAUQUA AND FOGELSVILLE RAILRAOD U.S.ROUTE309 INTERSTATE78 PATURNPIKENEEXTENSION EXISTING PARK ASSETS

KEY 29 Potential Buffer Zones Potential Site Access Natural ApproximateRemnantVehicularSwaleAccessStructureExtents of Quarry Existing Public Works Stockpiles Existing Wetland Existing HighPropertyStructuresLinePressurePetroleum Pipeline Norfolk Southern Railroad (Old Catasauqua and Fogelsville Railroad) QUARRY RESERVOIROUTFALL SOILWETLANDSTOCKPILES The map below is a summary of site inventory and analysis that maps the existing site conditions and constraints. In Omnes’ research, no notable overlays were found on PNDI mapping. SITE ANALYSIS MAP

The proposed Kohler Ridge Park is located on a 25.7-acre site at 2007 Brickyard Road. This unique parcel falls along the border between the more densely populated southern portion of South Whitehall Township and the lesser populated northern edge. The site consists of a steeply sloped woodland, a slightly less steep post-agricultural meadow, an (uninhabitable) house, a two-story garage, and the remnants and remaining landscape of a shale quarry from the late 1800s.

The human history of the Lehigh Valley begins with the Lenape (meaning “original people”), the native people who first inhabited the region 10,000 years ago. The area’s unique geography and rich natural resources were important to the nomadic Lenape who lived and camped in the valley. They utilized the area for hunting and fishing and had many dispersed camps throughout the region, adopting a more static lifestyle as they gained knowledge of plant cultivation. The Lenape grew seed plants such as lambs quarter, knotweed, and little barley, and their advancing understanding of agriculture led them to settle near water sites and sunny floodplains in the Lehigh Valley where land could be cleared for growing other crops like corn and squash.

KOHLER RIDGE PARK SITE

HISTORICAL CONTEXT THE ORIGINALLENAPE:PEOPLE OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY

SITE INVENTORY + ANALYSIS

During the broad era of Lenape settlement, the region was covered by a primarily deciduous forest that had few very larger trees – likely a result of periodic controlled burns practiced by the Lenape. This kind of prescribed burning facilitated hunting and travel, drove away insects, and increased the supplies of wild edibles.

A vitrified brick plant and shale quarry HuckleberrytheoperationsbeginsalongnorthslopeofRidge.

The early 1700s saw a tremendous increase in the number of permanent settlers arriving in the Lehigh Valley from Europe. Through the early 1800s, this included thousands of Germans drawn to Pennsylvania for its religious tolerance laws as well as for the opportunity to farm the productive limestone soils of the Lehigh Valley.

INDUSTRIAL ERA

While the Lehigh Valley was rich with iron ore and limestone, iron production was extremely difficult the region in the early 1800s. Undeveloped roads and shallow rivers meant that iron could only be made where there were also extensive forests for charcoal, far from the Lehigh Valley.

COLONIAL SETTLEMENT

Early 1700s Before 1682 Late 1800s 1896 Chestnut blight kills off the majority of American chestnut trees in the region, altering the composition of the ecosystem. Forest shifts to an oak / hickory base instead of Chestnut. Sunoco site.cornersoutheasterninstalledPipelinePressureHighPetroleumisattheoftheforest.toslopesandfarmslikelyoflevelSubsequently,ceaseoperationsIndustrialonsite.portionsthesitewereusedfororpasture,thesteeperwereleftreturnto Between 19131939-1958 1950s

A site timeline illustrates cycles of disturbance experienced at the Kohler Ridge site. While the Lenape lived for thousands of years in the Lehigh Valley, they were forced from their homelands by European settlement over the course of just a few decades. Stripped of claims to their traditional lands in the valley through actions such as the fraudulent Walking Purchase of 1737, the Lenape were pushed westward toward places such as Oklahoma and Wisconsin, where thriving Lenape sovereign nations endure today with ongoing connections to their homelands.

The Lenape people occupy the area now known as Lehigh County, using the land primarily for hunting, fishing, and travel routes without villages.permanent German limestoneproductiveattractedLehigharethe(primarilysettlersfromRhineregion)drawntotheValley,bysoils. The majority of the Valley is inhabited, and extensive logging leaves much of the area deforested.

The high cost and difficulty prevented the development of the industry until the advent of “hot blast” furnaces in the 1840s. These furnaces created higher and more consistent temperatures that made it possible to use anthracite coal rather than charcoal in the smelting process.

By the time of the 1810 Census, the area was one of the largest grain producing regions in the country. As settlement continued and technology advanced, extractive and industrial operations began overtaking the Lehigh Valley.

In 1896, three investors purchased a plot of land along the north slope of Huckleberry Ridge and opened a vitrified brick plant and shale quarry that would come to be known as the Allentown Brick Company. The bricks produced by the plant were a high-quality paving brick and were the only bricks in Lehigh County to be made with shale.

32 Large reserves of anthracite were located nearby just north of the Lehigh Valley, though transportation was still limited to horse drawn wagons. Though the journey to obtain anthracite was far shorter than the one for charcoal, treacherous road conditions during bad weather sometimes made travel impossible. In 1857 this transportation was greatly improved with the construction of the Catasauqa and Fogelsville Railroad, which borders the northern edge of the Kohler Ridge Park site. By the 1870s, the Lehigh Valley was at the heart of American industry, with Pennsylvania producing nearly half of all iron in the country and the Lehigh Valley supplying the highest yields. Other notable industries within the valley included various mining operations such as ore, slate, shale, and zinc.

ALLENTOWN BRICK COMPANY

allentownpa.gov/Play/HistoryGOV,“Allentownaboutrxb.html)nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/fire/program/PrescribedNewbusiness/steeldigital.lib.lehigh.edu/beyondsteel/https://JerseyForestFireService,AboutBurning,2020,https://CityHistory.”AllentownPA.CityofAllentown,https://www.

The vitrified brick plant consisted of a circular smokestack 124’-6" in height and had ovens with a capacity of 50,000 bricks. Bricks continued to be produced on site until 1913.

Sometime between 1939 and 1958, a high pressure petroleum pipeline was directed through the south eastern portion of the site. The natural gas pipeline is part of the Sunoco Pipeline that connects to the shale-heavy regions of northern Pennsylvania’s “endless” mountains.

SOURCES FOR FURTHER READING

Benjamin LeRoy Miller, Pennsylvania Geological Survey Fourth Series Bulletin C 39, Lehigh County Pennsylvania Geology and Geography (Harrisburg, PA: Department of Internal Affairs, 1941)

RECENT HISTORY After the brick plant ceased operations, it is believed that the more sloped portions of the site were left to return to woodland and the lesser sloped portions were used for farming or Whilegrazing.theforested portions of the site likely contained a large percentage of chestnut trees originally, the introduction of chestnut blight to the region in the 1950s likely caused the ecosystem to shift to a larger concentration of oaks and hickories instead.

John K. Smith, “Iron and Steel in the Lehigh Valley.” Beyond Steel, Lehigh University Digital Library,

HISTORY

Remnants

of an underground brick structure and archway from a brick manufacturing operations, c. 1890s Remnant quarry topography with extreme side slopes and a level floor

The shale belt and limestone valley each represent distinctly different landscapes within the county. In the shale belt, the land undulates in a series of small symmetrically rounded hills gently rising to the north with heights ranging from 650-1,000 feet. These hills are bisected by many streams which have carved away the topography in a series of intricate, steep slopes.

In contrast to the shale belt, the limestone valley is vastly broad and flat with few streams. The average elevation is around 400 feet. The lesser quantity of streams and presence of many sink holes point to an extensive natural underground drainage system.

Lehigh County is framed to the north by Blue Mountain, or Kittatinny Ridge – an evencrested, narrow formation comprised of Tuscarora conglomerates and sandstones.

34 GEOLOGY

To the south is South Mountain, part of the Reading Prong of the New England Uplands. South Mountain is comprised of various crystalline rocks and contains similar formations to those found in much of New England. The valley between is predominantly limestone with a band of shale running adjacent to Blue Mountain to the north.

The Kohler Ridge site is located at the northern edge of the limestone region. The ridge itself is an outlier prong formed by an upward tilting syncline of shale which breaks the continuity of the limestone floor. This allows for the ridge to support a unique ecosystem from that of its immediate Thesurroundings.projectsite is composed predominately of Lower Martinsburg Shale with a small pocket of Beekmantown Limestone located at the northwest corner. This shift in geology is also reflected by a shift in the soils from a rocky, dry, acidic soil covering the bulk of the site to a prime agricultural soil located in the pocket of limestone. This shift occurs roughly at the same location of a natural swale found on site.

KOHLER RIDGE SITE SOILS

GEOLOGY & SOILS

Geologic Map of Lehigh County, Plate 01, in Miller, Pennsylvania Geological Survey Fourth Series Bulletin C 39

*Channery loam / channery silt Rocky,loam.acidic soils and droughty shales derived from shale, siltstone and / or fine grained sandstone. KEY Wa Washington silt loam Silt loams derived from limestone or glacial drift, prime

Bf Bedington-Berks Complex

BkFBkDWaCBkCWaBBkBfarmland.3-8%slopes3-8%slopes8-15%slopes8-15%slopes15-25%slopes25-60%slopes

*Channery - a soil consisting 15% or more of thin fragments of sandstone, shale, slate, limestone or

schistUaUdorthentsManmadeandalteredmaterialsfrommixed rock DbBtypes.Duffield silt loam 3-8% slopes. Silt loam derived from limestone and siltstone, prime farmland UmB Urban land Duffield Complex 0-8% slopes Pavement, buildings and other artificially covered areas CmB Clarksburg silt loam 3-8% slopes. Silt loam derived from limestone, prime

The shift in soil types on site is consistent with the ecotones that the design team observed during site inventory, including drainage patterns and ranges of plants due to acidity, fertility, etc. Map by Omnes based on: Soil Survey Staff, Natural Resources Conservation Service, United States Department of Agriculture. Web Soil Survey. Available online at the following link: http://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/. Accessed 02/09/2021.

BfB 3-8% slopes

*Channery loam and channery silt loams, prime farmland.

BfCfarmland8-15% slopes

GEOLOGY & SOILS

Bk Berks-Weikert Complex

37 RoundedShale glacial aggregates A mix of shale and granitetype stone of site Quartzite formations GneissClay

1 24 5 Deadfall

Soils are rocky and dry containing large pieces of shale. Pine trees occur along the top of the ridge and indicate a shift in ecosystems. Sparse understory and tall, straight trees are a result of competition for soil and light. Consistent tree sizes indicate disturbance ~6080 years ago (c. 1920s–1940s). is plentiful within the forested portions of the site. Some (but not all) hazardous trees are a result of the Emerald Ash Borer.

Invasive wineberry plants have colonized the disturbed areas around the pipeline. These shrubs are known to overtake native stands of huckleberry and blueberry.

3 1 3 2 4 5 FOREST CONDITIONS

and meadow. 1 3 32 4 5 MEADOW CONDITIONS

View of open meadow and Blue Mountain (Kittatinny Ridge) beyond. of grows transition zone forest

Meadow appears to be predominately Canadian goldenrod. While not an invasive, Canadian goldenrod is known to take over and crowd out other beneficial species.

at the

between

1 24 5 Thicket

sweet birch

View of the open meadow with afternoon shade from the forest. The north-facing forested slope is mostly shady.

Mosses growing within the meadow adjacent to the forest indicate a wet / shady condition. Runoff from the ridge likely infiltrates the rocky soils above, flows below the surface, and then reemerges at the lesser slopes along the meadow edge.

The Kohler Ridge Park site and its environs were once known as Huckleberry Ridge, named for its fertile abundance of the native huckleberries.

GRASSLAND AND HERBACEOUS OPENINGS DEVELOPEDLANDDEVELOPED LAND HuckleberryRoadNorfolkSouthernRailroad (CatasauquaFogelsville)& NORTHEAST INTERIOR DRY MESIC OAK FORESTOLDFIELDFORESTEDGE/ APPALACHIANSCENTRALDRY OAK AND PINE FOREST HuckleberryReservoirPetroleumPressureHighPipeline BrickyardRoad ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES

The Appalachian Mountains of the eastern United States are comprised of a series of ridges running north / south with elevations ranging from 320-2,080 feet above sea level, according to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. Framed by these ridges is the Great Valley – a chain of lowlands stretching from Quebec to Alabama. The Great Valley is known by many names along its length, and in central / eastern Pennsylvania, this region is known as the Lehigh Valley.

ECOLOGY

ECOSYSTEM PROFILE: FLORA AND FAUNA

Across the Kohler Ridge site, a variety of ecosystems can be found. These include developed land, grasslands and herbaceous openings, northeast interior dry mesic oak forest, and central Appalachians dry oak and pine forest. The profiles for each of these ecosystems are detailed in the following Itsections.should be noted though that while these are the ideal plant and animal communities that occur in these ecosystems, the actual site conditions contain high quantities of invasive species that are competing with –and often crowding out – the native systems.

GRASSLAND AND HERBACEOUS OPENINGS

Accounting for approximately 26% of Pennsylvania land cover, the grassland and herbaceous opening regions are typically the result of human disturbance – primarily

41 Poaceae sp (fescue) Dactylis glomerata (orchard grass) Phleum pratense L. (timothy grass) Setaria sp. (foxtail) Solidago sp. (goldenrod) Senecio sp (ragwort and groundsel) Erigeron sp. (fleabane, daisy) Rudbeckia hirta (black-eyed Susan) Daucus carota (Queen Anne’s lace) Achillea millefolium (yarrow) Taraxacum officinale (dandelion) Fragaria virginiana (wild strawberry)

Podophyllum**Taenidia**Carex**GaylussaciaHamamelisLinderaviburnum)Viburnum*Casteneapallidaovataovalisglabratomentosa(Hickory)(mockernut)(pignut)(redorsweetpignut)(shagbark)(sand)dentata(Americanchestnut)acerifolium(maple-leavedbenzoin(spicebush)virginiana(witchHazel)brachycera(box-huckleberry)polymorpha(variablesedge)montana(mountainparsley)pelatum(mayapple)Quercussp.(Oak)montana(chestnut)alba(white)sometimescoccinea(scarlet)sometimesPinus(Pine)virginiana(Virginia,scrub,Jersey)strobus(Easternwhite)Vacciniumpallidum(lowbushblueberry)Kalmialatifolia(mountainlaurel)**Gaylussaciabrachycera(box-huckleberry)**Trifoliumvirginicum(Kate’smountainclover)**Heucheraalba(whitealumroot)**Phloxbuckleyi(sword-leavedphlox)**Taenidiamontana(mountainparsley)**Adlumiafungosa(climbingfumitory)Podophyllumpelatum(mayapple)

Quercus sp. (Oak) alba velutinarubracoccinea(white)(scarlet)(red)(black)

NORTHEAST INTERIOR DRY MESIC OAK FOREST

CENTRAL APPALACHIANS DRY OAK AND PINE FOREST

NORTHEAST INTERIOR DRY MESIC OAK FOREST Oak dominates this forest with mostly acidic, relatively infertile soils. Characterized by variable structure and composition based on disturbance (commonly caused by low severity fires, perhaps from controlled burns). Without disturbance, Acer saccharum and other later successional species begin to replace the overstory oaks and hickories.

TYPOLOGICAL PLANT SPECIES

GRASSLAND AND HERBACEOUS OPENINGS

HERBACEOUS (SPARSE)

GRASSESPERENNIALSTREESSHRUBSHERBACEOUS

Carya sp.

CENTRAL APPALACHIANS DRY OAK AND PINE FOREST

SHRUBSTREES

The Central Appalachians dry oak and pine forest is a variant of the Northeast Interior Dry Mesic Oak Forest occurring in drier locations – commonly along ridges. Soils are steeply sloped, shallow, rocky, dry, and acidic. The primary difference in species is the presence of pines.

*Dominant species prior to near eradication resulting from chestnut **Speciesblightofconcern for agriculture (Pennsylvania Envirothon, “An Introduction to Pennsylvania Species, Habitat, Ecosystems, and succumbIfPASpecies_Ecosystems&Biodiversity.pdf).https://www.envirothonpa.org/pdfs/Biodiversity,”leftunattended,thesegrasslandswouldtosuccessionandtransitioninto an oldfield with woody shrubs and small trees, and eventually, a forest ecosystem.

Grassland42 and herbaceous openings Northeast interior dry mesic oak forest Central Appalachians dry oak and pine forest OBSERVED GRASSLANDSPECIESANDHERBACEOUS OPENINGS FLORA Gigantia solidago Hay Scented Fern *Garlic Mustard *Dames *Mugwort*AutumnRocketOlive FLORA Pinus RedbudHickoryBasswood**CommonHopAshTulipChestnutScarletBlackWhiteRed**Cherry**Oak**SassafrasGrayRedCrabappleJuniperusstrobusvirginanaMulberryBirchsp)OakOakOakOakOakPoplarHornbeamHackberry Jack in the Pulipt Native Grapevine Native *StiltHairyVioletsAvensSensitiveChristmasHayBotrychiumGooseberryBuckthorn*BarberryacerifoliumViburnumSpicebushblackberry(rare!)ScentedFernFernfernFleabanegrass FAUNA Wood Thrush CENTRAL APPALACHIANS DRY OAK AND PINE FOREST Virginia creeper *Garlic *Wineberry*Orientalmustardbittersweet DEVELOPED LAND Kentucky*PaulowniaBlackSugar*AlianthusWillowSycamoreOakMaplewalnutCoffee Tree *StiltgrassFoxCattailsSedge Sweet *Mile-a-minuteMilkweedHeartBonesetBleedingCicely * Invasive species ** New growth / sapling FAUNA Gray birdRed-wingedTurkeySwallowBirchScrapeblack NORTHEAST INTERIOR DRY MESIC OAK FOREST ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES

There are two areas on site where the planning team observed a large number of deadfall; in these areas the absence of tree canopy opened the forest floor to direct sunlight. These zones are opportunities to create ecological regeneration of the soils, plant, and flora/fauna.

REGENERATIONZONE REGENERATIONZONE Northeast Interior Dry Mesic Oak CentralForestAppalachians Dry Oak and Pine Forest Grassland and Herbaceous DevelopedOpenings Land Forest regeneration KEY

EXISTING ECOLOGIES

• Cutworm

• Giant

•

The

•

The species outlined on the adjacent page are those that can be found in ecosystems similar to those found on the Kohler Ridge site. This is not an exhaustive list of all species found on the site but is instead limited to those identified as warranting special attention as a result of evidence of decline, vulnerability to environmental degradation, lack of information / evidence surrounding a species, or habitat degradation or loss that could result in the species transition to a threatened species.

•

According to iNaturalist.org, a joint initiative of the California Academy of Sciences and the National Geographic Society, the following species have been observed in this area: Eastern Tiger Swallowtail Red-Tailed Hawk Great blue heron Common Garter Snake Woodland salamanders Four-lined plant bug Monarch butterfly True crickets Woodlouse spider Black Vine Weevil Eastern Boxelder bug Morning-glory plume moth moths Leopard moth moth Bedstraw Hawkmoth design team can also attest to a major presence of mosquitos in the summer months!

•

FAUNA

•

ANIMALS + INSECTS

•

• Gem

CASTENEA DENTATA (AMERICAN CHESTNUT)

•

Forested portions of the Kohler Ridge Park site likely once contained a large percentage of chestnut trees, but with the introduction of chestnut blight (Cryphonectria parasitica) to the region in the 1950s, the ecosystem began to shift to a larger concentration of oaks and hickories instead.

•

*EASTERN SMOOTH EARTHSNAKE

A small snake reaching up to 15.5" in length. Similar to the Mountain Earthsnake, the Eastern Smooth Earthsnake spends much of its life underground. Habitat includes forests, abandoned fields in varying stages of succession, dry upland ridges, pastures, urban and suburban woodlots, forest-fields and moist *Indicateslowlands.critically imperiled, imperiled, or vulnerable species.

Found in woodlands and thickets. They hide their nests among leaves and tangles in deciduous trees and feed upon caterpillars (particularly gypsy moths), katydids, cicadas, and grasshoppers. Species is secure, though the population is in decline.

Though not specifically noted in Lehigh County (secretive and difficult to find), the coal skink lives in similar ecosystems. Habitat includes open areas with rock or log cover. Species reach 5-7" in length.

Small, non-venomous snake reaching a length of only 13" and living most of its life underground; only emerges during heavy summer rains. Requires loose soil for burrowing into and rotting stumps and logs are a favorite shelter. Most frequently found in short grassy slopes with sandstone rocks near deciduous forests and streams.

LEAST WEASEL

Non-migratory butterfly dependent on lupine and wild indigo to complete its annual life cycle. Lupine and wild indigo are specialist species that only occur in well established meadow

*NORTHERN COAL SKINK

BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO

Habitat includes open forests, farmlands, grassy fields and meadows, and hedgerows. Dens are made in burrows abandoned by other mammals (voles, moles etc.) or nets made in holes in buildings or other similar sites. Status in PA is secure.

SOUTHERN FLYING SQUIRREL

Rarely seen due to their nocturnal nature, the flying squirrel is a highly social species (particularly during winter nesting time). Threats include loss of habitat and loss of cavitybearing and mast producing trees. Status is currently secure.

*MOUNTAIN EARTHSNAKE

The Kohler Ridge site has many layers of complexity, with constraints that are ecological, infrastructural, and social. The planning team took into account many factors and considerations within the design, the highlights of which are outlined here.

CONSIDERATIONSDESIGN

The site is comprised of three different parcels, each with very different land uses and configurations. The 25.7-acre site is comprised of the following tax lots:

Various elements within Kohler Ridge’s landscape offer opportunities for the public to engage with nature while learning about its many flows and patterns. Through the planning process, it became apparent that environmental education should be a core driver in the expression on site, and how people interact with nature of the site. This was instilled as a core aspect of the programming,and also as part of the guiding values for the park – to provide experiences that educate people to restore and protect nature.

SITE ORGANIZATION

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

Though the park will be passive in use, it will have different areas of activation and programming that offer social amenities to the community. The diagram at right shows how the forest and meadow are maintained as passive areas, while the developed area that has the former residence/garage and quarry remnants could lend to more active programming such as play or parking. This “active” area has open lawn and recently graded zones, so any new construction here will not have the same ecological sensitivity as other areas within the future park.

ZONING + LAND USE

• Northern Parcel (Parcel ID No. 547786046295 1): 15.97-acre lot whose

• Southern Parcel ID No. 547775598930 1: 9.26-acre site whose zoning is classified as “Vacant Land – Agricultural” and has the address of 444 Walbert Avenue. This parcel was sold to SWT in 2019 by Jaindl Land Company for $1.00. There is an approximate 30’ offset between the edge of the road and the property line that should be maintained for public access and utilities. At the southern side of this parcel, there is a 30’ wide right-of-way for the Sunoco Pipeline.

• Western Parcel (Parcel ID No. 547775199903 1): 1.03-acre site with a main house & garage apartment

ACTIVEDEVELOPED

Site organization map reflecting the influences of circulation and programming

47 current zoning is classified as “Vacant Land – Agricultural.” This is the upper forested lot, and it was sold to the Township by Janet M. Kehnel for $1.00 in 1997. The site will be named Kohler Ridge Park in honor of her late parents John J. and Margaret E. Kohler, who bought the agricultural property in 1980. This parcel is directly adjacent to the Norfolk Southern Rail (NSR) Line; the line was once the Catasauqua and Fogelsville Railroad before it was bought by NSR. The line is still active, though only for local deliveries to/from nearby aggregate/ cement companies.

PASSIVEFOREST

FOREST MEADOW

The fact that the park will be comprised of three separate parcels has potential impacts on permitting and construction documentation. The Township should evaluate the pros and cons of uniting these parcels into a single parcel – this could be done prior to developing the park or after improvements have been made.

STORMWATER / CONSIDERATIONSNPDES

NORFOLK-SOUTHERN LINE

This process involves a four-foot spacing between survey profiles, and the scientist uses a device in the field that would break the area into a grid.

The impacts of reducing permeable space will be focused on the area surrounding the proposed Eco-Barn, but minimized in other zones.

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

The planning team discussed the project with NSR and they advised that a buffer and potential fence be installed at the edge of the

ANTICIPATED USERS

Omnes consulted with a Geophysicist at Langan Engineering, and a broad course of action was advised:

• Perform a magnetic survey to determine the presence of underground structures. The equipment will detect magnetic differences of the brick structures, and will provide a zone for further inquiry.

SWT advised on the anticipated level of visitorship that the site might receive when it is fully accessible and open. Because this is a passive park, a large volume of daily users is not anticipated or encouraged. If a structure is to hold events, the largest will be a ~30-person exercise class; the design team used this as the maximum for programmatic planning.

If larger groups such as a children’s summer camp wanted to utilize Kohler Ridge Park, it is assumed that they would bus from Covered Bridge Park. The strain on public restrooms could be eased with SWT supplying additional portable restroooms outside.

The passive nature of the park has been emphasized by the design team, using permeable and low-maintenance materials.

• If the magnetic survey shows evidence of possible underground structures, then perform gravity/seismic surveys in areas of interest. These surveys would break the site into a 10’ x 10’ grid for the measurement survey stations, and the surveying team could cover a 100’ x 100’ area per day.

GEOTECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS

with an address is located at 1995 Brickyard Road. The current zoning is “Residential.” The parcel was sold to SWT in 2019 by Jaindl Land Company for $1.00. There is an approximate 30’ offset between the edge of the road and the property line that should be maintained for public access and utilities.

49 property to promote safety for park users and security for the rail engineers.

SWT SOIL STOCKPILES

On the southeastern edge of the site is located a large water reservoir with a capacity of ten million gallons. This is owned by South Whitehall Township, and it was constructed in 1989. The reservoir is drained every other year for routine maintenance and cleaning; its only drainage path is to the north, where this water flows down along the steep ridge of the Kohler Ridge Park site. The water is also tested for contaminants such as E. coli, bacteria, fecal matter, etc., and any contamination levels above established safety standards requires that the reservoir must be completely drained within 48 hours. To counteract this large volume and velocity of water, design consideration is given to enhancing existing swales, stabilizing slopes, and introducing measures that will help slow and absorb the water along its pathway. The design team has included installation of large stone at the outfall at the top of the ridge, to slow the velocity of water. The site has a natural drainage swale that will be maintained in the existing design, and it feeds down into the low point of the meadow at the western edge.

The western parcel on the Kohler Ridge site that contains the existing residences has a large expanse of lawn where an existing residence and garage stand. The house has been identified as “tear-down” condition by SWT, though the garage foundation and structure is salvageable. The design team

The western parcel in the “active” zone of the site has soil and aggregate stockpiles that are currently utilized by SWT Public Works. Prior to any construction or surveying, it is advisable for these stockpiles to be relocated to another SWT-owned site. This will allow for a more accurate survey of the site, especially if geotechnical surveys are undertaken.

WETLAND DELINEATION

EXISTING RESIDENCE + GARAGE

SUNOCO PIPELINE

HUCKLEBERRY RESERVOIR

On the southeastern edge of the site, there is an existing 8” high pressure Sunoco Pipeline. The site has a minimum 30’ easement to keep the area above and adjacent to the pipeline clear.

There are other potential sub-surface conditions of high groundwater and subterranean structures from the shale mining/brick-making operations. The location of these structures has not been identified, but should be confirmed prior to any park operations take place on site.

BRICK QUARRY REMNANTS

A previous developer of the western parcel began the process of grading a driveway, but left the soil and aggregate unfinished; the runoff and accumulated clay has formed an “accidental” inland, non-tidal emergent wetland. This wetland has not been formally delineated and permitted, but should be prior to any construction on site.

50 7652318 accounted for adaptive re-use of the Eco Barn in this zone, and is relying upon use of the existing electrical and water connections to the house. The house had a septic/cesspool system that is inconsistent with modern septic systems, and suffered from being located within a high water table location. For this reason, the planning solutions identify both a new septic, composting toilets, or use of on-site sewer tank, as outlined in chapter six.

SITE CONDITIONS

There are a number of complex site conditions that influence the design of the park. These complex conditions are noted at right, and also discussed in detail in various sections of this plan.

51 10’ ObservedContoursWet Area KEY Property Line Utility Pole High Pressure Petroleum Pipeline 1 2 354 1. Small remnant brick structure 2. Historic Allentown Brick Co. vitrified brick quarry site 3. Soil stockpile 4. Suspected location of septic/cesspool field (no photo available) 5. Existing structures 6. C&F Secondary Railroad at the northernmost edge of the site. According to the Lehigh Valley 2007 Rail Freight Study, the single track is maintained per 25 mph standards and serves the industrial parks and distribution centers in Upper Macungie Township. 7. A gravel construction drive leads to a large stockpile of rocky soil filling in the westernmost portion of the quarry. To the left are cattails and other wetland species indicating a small wetland / detention basin. 8. A Sunoco high pressure petroleum pipeline crosses through the forest along the top of the ridge. 9. Remnant quarry topography with extreme side slopes and level floor 8 6 7 COMPLEX SITE CONDITIONS MAP

52 1:7 1:9 ≤1:20 1:10 1:81:10 1:5 1:5 1.5:1 1:1.5 1:41:1.51:71:1.51:1.5 1:5 1:7 1:5 1:6 SLOPE AND TOPOGRAPHY View of slopes from the main quarry pit, looking northeast Slope analysis of the Kohler Ridge site. Arrows point down hill.

The topography of the site has steep slopes that have been carved away by brick and mining operations. The eastern side of the site has gentler sloping hills that were utilized for agricultural cultivation.

53 10’

The slopes on site informed the design team regarding places that provide opportunities for overlooks and vistas, with potential views to the Kittatinny Ridge. The slopes also informed the location of trails and pathways throughout the site:

SlopeSwaleContoursArrows SLOPEKEY

DATA ANALYSIS

• High sloped with more “technical” terrain can provide overlooks if forest clearings are sited in the foreground.

• Parking should be located in a zone that can provide a relatively even plane, without having to clear large parts of the existing ecological setting.

AND TOPOGRAPHY

• Lower slopes should be utilized for creating accessible trails that can be utilized by all.

54 SUMMER & WINDSWINTER SEVERE STORMS MICROCLIMATE WINTER WINDS SOLAR ASPECT AND MICROCLIMATES

climate

View of solar aspect from the main quarry pit, looking northeast aspect and analysis of the Kohler Ridge site

Solar

CONSIDERATIONS

DATA ANALYSIS

• Due to wind and solar exposure, microclimates for plant communities should be considered.

55 10’ Contours North FacingSwale West Facing East Facing Wind Direction Sun path South Facing Observed Wet Area SOLAR ASPECT CLIMATICKEY

• The design should consider summer breezeways from the south, helping to keep park users cool and also to provide relief from mosquitos.

In addition to the topography, the planning team analyzed the microclimates on site in order to understand areas that can provide human comfort in extreme weather. This is an important consideration for continued climate change, as conditions becomes wetter, hotter, and windier during weather events.

• Protection from winter winds will help protect the ridge in the winter from strong storm gusts. It can also keep hikers comfortable when hiking the shaded ridge.

PRECIPITATION • In PA, over the past 110 years there has been a 10% increase in the amount of precipitation on average.*** By 2050, we can expect an additional 8% increase in precipitation.***

• Lehigh County is currently in zone 6A and 6B.

Absorbs 2.5 tonnes of CO2 annually - the equivalent to the amount of CO2 produced by the average car’s annual mileage 1 SQUARE ACRE OF MATURE FOREST

HARDINESS ZONES • Plant hardiness zones are shifting north at a rate of around 13 miles per decade based on the average of 20 different predictive climate models.

CLIMATE CHANGE

ONE SINGLE TREE CAN ABSORB 48 POUNDS OF CO2 IN ONE YEAR.

2.02.53.03.54.04.5JAN1986-2015 2036-2065 FEB MAR APR DECNOVOCTSEPAUGJULJUNMAY

•

5.0

RAINWATER + STORMWATER

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Rainfall, snow, ice storms, and flooding are projected to increased in the future, and this will greatly impact the Lehigh Valley. As a passive park, Kohler Ridge is designed to absorb and cleanse water. It is also a place for people to go and get outside even during inclement weather, through the inclusion of artful stormwater management design.

TEMPERATURE In PA, over the past 110 years the temperature has increased by 1.8° F.*** AVERAGE TEMPERATURE ALLENTOWN, PA* YEAR LONG PRECIPITATION ALLENTOWN, PA* 83.9° 89.2° +5.3° 23.2° 27.9° +4.7° 302000year avg. 2050 30 year avg. 0°10°20°30°40°50°60°70°80°90°100°110°120° in

LowWinterHighSummer

• Predicted to shift into zones 7A and 7B by 2070. COLD HARDINESS ZONE SHIFT**

In the face of changing temperatures and extreme weather, the conservation and stabilization of the ecological communities in Kohler Ridge will be very important. Strategies to support this could mean introducing/supporting climate adaptive tree species, establishing a native meadow (and species it supports), and capturing carbon through thriving forests.

• Extend roof life up to 3 times the standard life expectancy.

• Collect and treat water with native planting while recharging ground water tables.

• Avoids effluent & potential water table contamination.

• Reduces CO2 in the air.

BUILDING + LANDSCAPE SYSTEMS

** Lauren E. Parker and John T. Abatzoglou, “Projected changes in cold hardiness zones and suitable overwinter ranges of perennial crops over the United States,” Environmental Research Letters 11 (2016), https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/11/3/034001/pdf

*SOURCES:UmairIrfan, Eliza Barclay, and Kavya Sukumar, “Weather 2050,” Vox.com, July 19, 2019, https://www.vox.com/a/weather-climate-change-us-cities-global-warming

SOLAR POTENTIAL FOR BUILDINGS

• 1,392 sf available for solar panels on the existing building footprint

• Based on an average electricity usage of $100 per month, 529 SF (7.5 KW) of solar panels can provide approximately 98% of the electricity needed for this location. This equates to an annual environmental impact equivalent to reducing 6.3 metric tons of carbon dioxide, removing 1.3 passenger cars from the road, or 161 seedlings grown for 10 years.

GREEN ROOF SYSTEM PERMEABLE PAVING + BIOSWALES COMPOSTING TOILETS

*** Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, “Climate Change,” https://www.dep.pa.gov/Citizens/climate/Pages/default.aspx#:~:text=In%20Pennsylvania%2C%20our%20climate%20 has,amount%20of%20precipitation%2C%20on%20average

• Reduce energy consumption by 40% for winter heating and by 100% for cooling in the summer.

• Reduces stormwater runoff which leads to a decrease in the burden on storm sewer systems.

• Introduces vermiculture for breakdown of bio-solids.

• 1,371 hours of usable sunlight per year

Sustainable materials and systems within the building and landscape ensure that Kohler Ridge Park creates a safe, healthy place that can be enjoyed by many generations. Permeable material for paving can help recharge groundwater and minimize impacts on existing sewers. Local sourcing of materials minimizes carbon impact and developed relationships with local economies. Healthy building systems with minimal VOCs and healthy circulation ensures clean air and interaction with tactile, natural materials.

THERMAL COMFORT

When deciding on programming and user experience, the thermal comfort of park visitors can be enhanced by considering seasonal temperatures and microclimates in specific areas of the park.

The design recommendations for Kohler Ridge Park are the result of numerous iterations worked through to form the overall layout, programming, features, and management of the landscape, incorporating feedback from the community and township throughout the process. Hand drawings, digital collages, 3D studies, site visits, and conversations with the community were integral to ensuring a collaborative and thorough design process.

The “Whimsical Woodland” concept was selected by the community through in-person and online surveys and served as the basis for the final design. Studies of pathways and circulation that traverse the varied topography of the site were fundamental to forming the overall layout. Pathways contribute to both the accessibility and the experience of moving through the landscape.

DESIGN MAINTENANCE+

06 PROCESS

Three pathway circulation strategies were studied, emphasizing differing experiences.

The “parallel pathways and pockets” strategy was chosen for its bold geometry, which follows the existing contours of the land while also contributing to moments of reveal and spectacle as one traverses the park, curving around “pockets” of activation. This option also emphasized the linearity of the site, with lines of successional forests forming borders between places on site. The final design includes approximately 2 miles of pathways throughout the park. Ecological land management with a focus on the changing climate was a critical influence on the development of the design and management framework. By designing with regenerative maintenance strategies in mind, the plan integrates guidelines that focus on the importance of ongoing care and stewardship of the shifting landscape 58

as a way to enhance ecological health and community vibrancy.

USERS + PROGRAMMING

59 The “Whimsical Woodland” concept site plan Fertile soil Rocky soil CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLLCLLCLLCLLCLLCLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL CLL RESERVOIR HUCKLEBERRY ROAD BRICKYARD ROAD HIGHPRESSUREPETROLEUMPIPELINE(SUNOCO) CATASAUQUAANDFOGELSVILLERAILRAOD EDGEOFFOREST MEADOW FIREBREAK Parking Parking Parking VisualBuffer /BermWetland Buffer Birch fern community Ferns + Flowering plants Pine Oak PlantSuccessionalCommunity Dry ForestPlayNatural AreaPicnic Small pavilions / Folly AreaPicnic AreaPicnic Learning+CraftGarden MeadowPollinator Sculpture in the woodsBrick kiln ruins ClassroomOutdoor ClimbingRock HouseTree Big Slides StructureOverlook Quarry Bridge + Canopy Walk TowersSwiftChimney CenterEducationNature DogFencedRun PlayFlexibleField

DESIGN Emphasizing the unique and storied history of the site, the “Whimsical Woodland” concept proposes to activate the landscape through playful and educational moments. The concept highlights regeneration of the ecosystem and historic relics in innovative and thoughtful ways that embed into the naturalistic setting. The design centers on dispersed activation points including the Learning Grove with embedded seating in the old quarry area; elevated “Overlook” pathways that provide views and access along steeper slopes; and a sculptural installation with Chimney Swift Towers in the meadow, referencing the former brick making operation. The EcoBarn serves as an important indoor amenity providing the community with a space for year-round programming opportunities. The overall ecological ethos of the master plan is maintained by recommending passive solar and sustainable architecture strategies, such as composting toilets. The design also consists of plant-forward ecological and horticultural pockets such as the forest garden, willow grove, and forest regeneration Azones.forested buffer envelops the edges of the park, acting as an ecologically rich threshold between the site and surrounding residences. It provides privacy as well as natural beauty, and forms a welcoming entrance.

It is anticipated that some scheduled events and programs will take place in the park frequently, primarily in or around the Eco-Barn. The scheduled programs are projected to be gatherings of ~30 people, approximately 1-2 times per week. These programs are relatively passive, such as exercise classes. School or small summer camp groups may also utilize the park. Typically, the number of users in the park is projected to not exceed 30-35 people at any given time. Higher levels of use are expected immediately after the park is opened to the public, and seasonally during spring to early fall, and with lower levels of use during late fall to winter.

PROGRAM PATHWAYS TREE CANOPY LOW POINTS 1- BROAD CURVES + BUBBLES • LARGE AND SMALL LOOPS • WALK THROUGH PROGRAM "BUBBLES" • WINDING PATHWAY THROUGH CLEARING 2 - WINDING PATHS + POCKETS • LARGE AND SMALL WINDING PATHS • PATHS ENCOMPASS PROGRAM • ONE PATH THROUGH CLEARING 3 - PARALLEL PATHS + POCKETS • PATHS AND CANOPY ALIGN WITH WIND AND URBAN FORM • POCKETS AND BUBBLES OF PROGRAM • ONE CROSS PATH THROUGH CLEARING WHIMSICAL WOODLAND CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT 60

LARGE CLEARING BREEZEWAY BREEZEWAY BREEZEWAY INSTALLATION MOWED MEADOW EDUCATIONNATURECENTER OVERLOOK NATUREPLAYPICNICFOODAREAFORESTGARDENCRAFTTERRACED PICNIC GARDEN WETLANDPARKING CANOPY WALK SLIDES + ROCK WALL WATER FEATURE OVER ENTRANCE BOARDWALKS INDOOR/OUTDOORSPACE SCULPTUREINTHEWOODS FRAMEDRUINS VIEWCLASSROOMOUTDOOR SINGLE PATH THROUGH CLEARING REGENERATIONFORESTZONE SUCCESSIONFOREST REGENERATIONFORESTZONE SUMMER & WINDSWINTER CANOPY- V2 THREE BREEZEWAYS CANOPY- V3 THREE AVOIDINGBREEZEWAYSCLEARINGS ON STEEP SLOPE CANOPY- V1 FIVE BREEZEWAYS EARLY PROCESS DRAWING Note: This is an early draft and does not represent the final concept PROGRAM PATHWAYS TREE CANOPY VIEWCLEARING 61

MEADOWMOWED RUINS HISTORIC+SIGNAGE WOODY OLDFIELDS FIREBREAKBLUE MOUNTAIN / KITTATINNYOVERLOOKRIDGE THE MEADOW THE FOREST REGENERATIONEXISTINGZONE OVERLOOK REGENERATIONBREEZEWAYZONE REGENERATIONBREEZEWAYTOWERSSWIFTCHIMNEYREGENERATIONBREEZEWAYEXISTINGREGENERATIONZONE PATH TYPESWETLAND BOARDWALK ELEVATED CANOPY WALK MULCH FOREST PATH PRIMARY MEADOW PATH /MOWNFIREBREAKMEADOW PATH SMALL GRAVEL PATH SCULPTURESCULPTURELOCATIONLOCATION 63

An ecologically-minded and accessibilityfocused forest management strategy integrates thoughtful harvesting and repurposing of wood on site, while a series of mowing and planting methods are recommended to improve the health and accessibility of the meadow area. Routine maintenance work will focus on invasive species removal and developing a healthier forest, removing hazardous fallen

The proposed plantings and selected materials are intended to minimize the impact of improvements upon the site (such as the existing wetlands), provide better site stormwater management, and reduce overall maintenance needs while meeting the anticipated uses in the park. Recommendations include routine weekly maintenance in areas where frequent uses are anticipated, such as areas around the parking lot and the Eco Barn. Lower frequency of work can be done in all other Itareas.isassumed that the driveway, parking lot, and some hard paved areas around the Eco Barn will receive snow management in the winter. Deicer or salt are discouraged, but some abrasives (such as sand) may be used. The trails, boardwalk, and the elevated walkways will be closed and unplowed in snow Wasteevents.receptacles are proposed only to be available around the Eco Barn, and visitors are asked to practice “carry-in, carry-out” with any trash they generate. Additionally, some seating will be available throughout the site and some maintenance hours are allowed to capture the needs for these Whilefurnishings.theproposed planting will require limited maintenance once established, the initial establishment period will require some effort to ensure the landscapes are not overtaken by invasive species and will function as intended. Proactive maintenance on the park’s other amenities and features, which includes frequent (visual) inspections and cleaning, will help identify any issues or damage and reduce larger scale repair in the long term. While the recommended maintenance for Kohler Ridge Park is lower than the typical active neighborhood parks, having a maintenance plan in place is key to ensure the Township is protecting its capital investment.

The health of the land is inextricably connected to the health of human communities who inhabit it. Forest and Meadow management recommendations for Kohler Ridge Park on the following pages aim to connect people with ecological processes by illuminating regenerative management strategies, particularly in the forest and meadow areas, and therefore demonstrate the benefits of human intervention on the landscape.

GENERAL PARK MAINTENANCE 64

ROUTINE,MAINTENANCEGENERAL MAINTENANCE

ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT

Because Kohler Ridge has been an inactive site for many decades, there are a number of invasive species present, distributed in the forest, meadow, wetland, and even former residential condition. In order to restore native ecosystems, blaze new trails, form regenerative clearings, and insert moments of programming in the park, these various invasives will need to be cleared.

To utilize the site initially, there will be a larger clearing that removes hazardous plantings and trees, and creates conditions for ecological restoration to occur. Clearing can be done in a traditional, incremental way by simply blazing trails, removing understory growth, and mitigating invasive and exotic species; this is typically done with manual labor. The continued removal of invasive species is also an opportunity for volunteers and park stewards to become involved in the site’s health. As an alternative, Omnes explored the option of “goatscaping” as outlined herein.

INITIAL LAND CLEARINGS

tree and damaged, diseased, or otherwise unhealthy trees that may fall. This area offers great opportunities for volunteers to provide service in the on-going maintenance (under supervision) of the restored forested areas – particularly in tasks such as litter/small debris removal, invasive species removal, groundplane replanting, etc

• Goat hooves can help break up the seed bank in meadows, assisting with aeration and de-compaction. Through their research, Omnes identified several regional sources for goatscaping and shepherds that are skilled in this methodology who could advise SWT on implementation. 65

GOATSCAPING Omnes explored the use of “goatscaping” for organic and low-impact management where a herd of goats can be brought in to the site for clearing low plantings and shrubs. The goats will eat any vegetation within their reach, and can even digest poison ivy safely. Additional benefits include:

• Goats leave fertilizer on site, which helps with future growing seasons.

• Goat’s saliva includes enzymes that neutralizes certain seed types, so once digested the seed is no longer viable.

Current thinking on ecosystem management helps to sustain long-term health and productivity of forests, valuing them as places of ecological function rather than simply resources. Forestry now approaches systems that perform various functions and processes, provide human goods, human experiences, recreation, peace and Tangiblesolitude.and intangible “values” are integrated into forest management with systems thinking, where no value is more important than another. The interdependency of biological and non-biological systems and cycles forms a holistic approach where humans are part of the ecosystem. This approach to management does not preclude resource use such as timber harvesting and hunting, but rather, views it in a looped system and long-range timeline. 66

A history of forest management adapted from: Department of Conservation and Natural Resources - Bureau of Forestry. Penn’s Woods Sustaining Our Forests. Harrisburg, PA, 1993.

• Providing diversity and younger growth that helps to stabilize and build soils

PRESENT MANAGEMENT STRATEGY

• Introducing air and light to nourish the understory and increase the diversity of flora and fauna

MANAGEMENT

MANAGEMENT OF FORESTS

1890s Natural Resources Agencies begin to develop forest protection recommendations in the form of restoration, reforestation, and land acquisition.

HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA STATE FOREST

1960s Multiple uses or multiple resource management diversifies sourcing and management methods. This is due to increasing demands by forest users and renewed environmental awareness/ there becomes a wider array of considerations in management strategies.

Properly managed forests host more biodiversity than unmanaged forests. Contemporary management practices focused on biodoversity and ecosystem health such as ecological forest management and ecosystem management focus on techniques that regenerate healthy and resilient forest systems. These methodologies, as well as the overall principles and objectives of DCNR’s “Penn Woods Strategic Plan,” guided the management recommendations for Kohler Ridge UnmanagedPark. forests, such as the current condition at the Kohler Ridge site, often exhibit many traits that contribute to a lowdiversity ecosystem. These forests often have one prominent age of tree species, likely as the result of a large-scale clear cutting followed by growth that occurred across the whole site at one time, or as the result of a large plantation of trees. These even-aged forests are characterized by a single consistent canopy height that blocks light and air from the forest floor, presenting difficult conditions for native ground covers, and therefore resulting in low levels of species diversity and colonization by invasive Omnes’plants. design strategy for forest regeneration on the following pages is based on the understanding that trees and forest systems have evolved over millennia with human and other disturbances and are therefore adapted to thrive in certain types of management conditions involving tree harvesting and clearing. The benefits of ecological forestry involving small clearings in a managed multi-aged forest include:

1900s Forest recovery is followed by extraction during the Industrial Revolution. With a focus on raw material extraction, single commodities and species focus, this is a time of intensive development of recreational facilities and timber management.

• Initiating a diverse range of tree species at various ages to form a resilient and healthy ecosystem

• Enhancing biodiversity and forest health

FOREST MANAGEMENT

KOHLER RIDGE FOREST REGENERATION: CREATE CLEARINGS TO ENHANCE BIODIVERSITY Unmanaged,YearYearPresent510even-aged forest Managed multi-aged forest Forest clearing regeneration over time CLOSED CANOPY DOESN’T LET LIGHT OR AIR INTO UNDERSTORY, MAKING IT LESS BIODIVERSE AND SUSCEPTIBLE TO INVASIVE SPECIES SINGLE AGE OF TREES SUSCEPTIBLE TO DISEASE, PESTS, STORMS AND EXTREME WEATHER INTRODUCES AIR + LIGHT LETS IN LIGHT TO NOURISH UNDERSTORY, ENHANCING FLORA + FAUNA DIVERSITY RESILIENT DIVERSITY DIVERSE RANGE OF TREE AGE AND TREE SPECIES 67

FOREST REGENERATION STRATEGIES Mature DeerNativeUnderstoryTreesTreesPlantingFencing FOREST REGENERATION ZONES FENCED REGENERATIONFORESTZONE FENCED REGENERATIONFORESTZONE FENCED REGENERATIONFORESTZONE OVERLOOKREGENERATIONBREEZEWAYZONE RESTORATION THINNING AND EROSION CONTROL NEEDED FENCED REGENERATIONFORESTZONE PATCH PLANTING 68

A method of “patch” planting can establish a patchwork of native plants that eventually spread to form a cohesive ecotype. This strategy will be utilized within the forest regeneration zones to re-establish diverse native woodland species. It will be important to practice “companion planting.” This is a practice where one can install a native plant alongside a “protector” plant that has more aggressive root and growth habits. The aggressive plant helps to protect the area around the native, and allows it to thrive without being crowded out by invasive or exotic species. This concept also works for plants that are vulnerable to deer browsing, which can be planted with spiky, fuzzy, or otherwise deer-resistant

Breezeways and regeneration zones drive the framework for a dynamic forest management strategy for Kohler Ridge Park. These multi-functional thinned clearings provide opportunities to bring new life into the forest, allow light and air flow into the canopy understory, and provide pathways for visitors. Spaces for new growth act in a similar fashion to a clearing that appears after a large tree falls in a forest, allowing new trees to grow in its place, and associated plants, animals, and insects to flourish. In this way, these clearings are a positive form of disturbance and contribute to an overall healthier multi-aged, resilient forest system. Regeneration zones throughout the forest serve to protect both naturally occurring regeneration that is already observed on site, as well as new zones in the proposed clearings. This aligns with Penn’s Woods’ Strategic plan principle to “protect natural regeneration zones.”

The first thinning cycle of the forest is not intended to be a clear cut, rather a “restoration thinning.” Overtime, the clearings will form a multi-tiered canopy full of diverse life forms. Ongoing management will help this system sustain its diversity. A recommended thinning cycle of 10-15 years will help maintain a healthy ecosystem. Planting with plugs and small plants is a great way to re-establish the native woodland, but is cost prohibitive because of the amount of labor and material costs.

Inplants.smaller regeneration zones, the installation of tall fencing protects young tree sprouts and native groundcover plants from deer and other animals that would otherwise feed on new growth. It’s a necessary precaution to ensure the trees are able to grow a certain height above the reach of deer, once this happens the fencing can be removed or relocated to a new regeneration zone elsewhere on the site. Native planting in the understory consists of low growing perennials that cover the bare soil, improving soil health and contributing to a diverse ecosystem. 69

NEW LIFE IN FORESTS

ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT TREE CULLING - CLEARING HAZARDOUS TREES

FOREST REGENERATION STRATEGIES 70

CONKSFUNGAL FALLENTREESBRANCHRUGGEDSTUBSWOUNDSBUMPS

TREE CULLING Identification and clearing of unhealthy and hazardous trees is necessary to maintain safe spaces for humans in the park, and also improves forest health. Signs of hazardous trees that may need to be cleared include protruding bumps on the trunk, large wounds, rugged branch stubs, fungal conks, and fallen or broken trunks and branches (see below). A full site assessment by a certified arborist and/or forestry professional is recommended as part of the pre-construction phase of the project to identify hazardous trees. These findings may also influence and alter the locations of small and longer clearings depending on where the majority of hazardous trees are located. USES OF HARVESTED WOOD Wood that is harvested for these clearings can be used to create wildlife habitats, mulched pathways, and growing medium. Harvested trees are a great hyperlocal source with the multiple benefits of being cost effective, sustainable, and ecologically enriching. This activity can also be part of a community volunteer work activity as well as a fun and educational demonstration opportunity.

• Hugelkultur mounds for gardening – this German innovation uses mounded logs layered with soil to create a moist and nutrient dense garden bed.

• Brush piles for wildlife habitat – providing cover, nesting places and dens as well as food for birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals who feed on insects that live in decomposing wood.

Four uses of harvested wood, depicted in the illustrations below, can be used within the park by maintenance staff and/or through community volunteer work days. They •include:Crib log and live staking for erosion control – recommended for stabilizing cleared areas along steep slopes. The “live stakes” take root in the soil and hold it together.

ECOLOGICAL STRATEGIES USING CLEARED WOOD HUGELKULTUR PLANTING MOUNDS (GARDEN AREAS ONLY, NOT IN FOREST)

WOOD CHIPS FOR MULCH PATHS + SOIL NOURISHMENT

CRIB LOG + LIVE STAKING FOR EROSION CONTROL BRUSH PILES FOR WILDLIFE HABITAT

• Wood chips for mulch paths and soil nourishment – chipped wood is a great material for paths and can also be used around newly planted trees and shrubs to improve soil health and insulation.

ControlWeed (monthly)herbicidewithinvasivestreatSpotpre-emergent (monthly)herbicidewithinvasivestreatSpotpre-emergent herbicidewithinvasivesMonitor&spottreatpre-emergent herbicidewithinvasivesMonitor&spottreatpre-emergent

controlweedMowing/ March breedinggroundbeforemowbird seedlighttoMonthlymowingallowtoreachbank Septemberun-mowedplantsLeaveafter March mow to 4” breedinggroundbeforeHTbird

MEADOW REGENERATION STRATEGIES

EXISTING MEADOW CONDITIONS

MEADOW RESTORATION CYCLES + SEASONS

RE-ESTABLISHING A DIVERSE, NATIVE CONDITION (Swamp milkweed), Eupatorium purpurea (Joe Pye Weed), and Dennstaedtia punctiloba (Hayscented fern), among others. In addition to the primary field of Solidago canadensis, there is an an ecotone of different plants found in the wetter loamy soils of a meadow swale to the western end of the site, a tracery of the unique soil and moisture below the perennials’ feet.

winter spring summer fall winter spring summer fall

The meadow at Kohler Ridge has a dominance of Solidago canadensis, or Canadian Goldenrod, which is a pollinatorfriendly flowering perennial that is often found in fallow fields such as those at the site. It is an aggressive spreader with a strong rhizomatic root system that is native to North America. Because of the aggressive nature, only a few other species are found in Kohler Ridge’s meadow field, observed species being Aesclepsias incarnata

&SeedingBlooms nitrogen-cropdesired,Ifplantcoverforfixingfunction stratifi-forseedSpreadinearlyMarchcoldcation stratifi-earlyseedSpreadinMayforwarmcation

YEAR ONE SITE PREPARATION YEAR SEEDINGTWO 72

InitialBloomsEmerge

To enhance habitat, pollinator activity, and ecological stability of the meadow, restoration of the meadow should focus on introduction of more diverse species that support a wider range of insects, birds, and other living things. The restored meadow will be a place for education, observation, and engagement with the sublime in nature. The Omnes team has outlined some practical next steps and methodologies that SWT could undertake to transform this

Every Marchyears,1-3mowto4”HTbeforegroundbirdbreeding

PrescribedPotentialBurns,onlyasnecessary

winter spring summer fall winter spring summer fall March mow to 4” breedinggroundbeforeHTbird

There are many ways to prepare a meadow for seeding and establishment, and the methodologies should be dependent upon the site soils, drainage, existing vegetation, maintenance needs, and client budget.

ONGOING MAINTENANCE

(rudebec-Biennialsemergekia,echi-nacea,monarda)afterinitialseeding (rudebec-Biennialsemergekia,echi-nacea,monarda)afterinitialseeding

herbicidewithinvasivesMonitor&spottreatpre-emergent

YEAR MEADOWTHREEESTABLISHMENT

MEADOW PREPARATION

roughly 15-acre portion of the park into a regionally-recognized native meadow. This work can be undertaken incrementally, especially with volunteer participants, in order to invite stewardship and a sense of community.

STRATEGIES

Beginning in very early spring, in March or early April, the existing meadow should be mowed to a height of four to six inches. This timing ensures that the plants in the meadow are in the dormant stage. This mowing also takes place prior to the ground bird breeding season, when small fledglings could potentially be found in the field. The existing meadow should continue to be cut throughout spring and summer when it reaches eight to twelve inches, which is likely every 2-3 weeks, or perhaps even more often with heavy rains.

This frequent mowing allows light and air to reach the seed bank, a term for the thin layer of soil on the surface of earth that contains former leaf litter, organic material, and a diversity of various seeds. These seeds are deposited by wind, rain, feces, burial by animals and insects, dropped by birds, footsteps through the meadow, and intentional cultivation by humans. Many of the seeds in the seed bank are dormant, and their germination is prevented by a lack of sun and water than is claimed by more aggressive species, such as Solidago canadensis This frequent mowing regimen used to prepare the meadow continues from March through September. Then the present grass and perennial species should be allowed to grow freely and last into the cold of winter. This will provide food and habitat for species that live at Kohler Ridge, and the perennials that grow have (hopefully) gradually diversified after a full summer of receiving sun and rain. The meadow should continue to be untouched from September to the following spring, when another year of mowing can continue. This cycle prepares the meadow for future seeding or perennial planting, setting the stage for greater diversity. If desired, a cover crop could be laid on the site in order to begin fixing nitrogen in the soil. In addition to mowing in the first site preparation year, a pre-emergent herbicide can be applied by a professional to the existing aggressive/invasive species to prevent their leaves from growing. This herbicide prevents the photosynthesis that 74

Because of the large scale and passive nature of Kohler Ridge’s meadow, Omnes recommends a deliberate, strategic, lowmaintenance approach to restoration that acknowledges the presence of the many fauna and insects that already inhabit this Whilespace.there is a recent infatuation with the concept of prescribed burns in the United States, it is not always the best option for the initial re-establishment of a meadow landscape. While fire can activate some beneficial species such as Mallows, Yarrow and Asters, it can also catalyze the growth of more aggressive plants such as the Goldenrod that already exists on site. For this reason, we recommend a regimen of mowing and seeding that will gradually nourish beneficial species while stymying the spread of Solidago canadensis and other aggressive perennials and grasses.

MEADOW REGENERATION

SEEDING AND PLANTING TIMING

provides energy to their root systems, and causes the plants to wither away and die. Because of the scale of the meadow, it would not be practical to spread pre-emergent herbicide across its breadth. We recommend spot-treating areas with invasive plants only, such as those species outlined on page 42. In no case should an herbicide with glycophosphate be used, since it is a proven human carcinogen and is toxic to beneficial pollinators; an organic, insect-friendly herbicide should be utilized.

After the meadow has been prepared in its first year, it can be planted with a diversity of species of perennials and grasses. The most economical method of planting is broadcast or hydromulch seeding, while a more costly and labor-intensive solution is planting the meadow with mature seedlings or rooted cuttings called “plugs.” When broadcast seeding, a seeder with a built-in hopper can provide a regulated flow of seed dispersal, and the pathway of the seeder is usually spread in two passes with a grid, similar to the patterns of a perfectly mowed lawn. A “bulkifying agent” such as 75

SEEDING AND PLANTING METHODS

The timing of the first seeding for the meadow should be determined by the landscape architect that designs the seed mix and layout. A schedule for preparation, seeding, and maintenance has been included on page 73 for reference, but is subject to adjustment once the restoration is planned and implemented. After seed has been installed in late winter or spring, it can be left to flourish and overwinter. Every one to three years following the establishment year, the meadow should be mowed to maintain its younger regenerative growth. Omnes recommends that the meadow be initially seeded in its second year, after the site has been prepared. Seed can be spread after the initial mowing early in March, when the existing species will be dormant. There will also be plenty of cold and moisture to help begin the germination process, in a condition called cold stratification. Even if the soil is still frozen (which is likely), the freeze/thaw process will assist the seed with embedding itself in the soil, and natural soil stratification will occur. There may be other seeds in the mix that benefit from warm stratification, and these can be installed after the last frost, which is typically at the end of April. While some seeds can be lost in winter planting with cold stratification, a more diverse range can be viable for spring planting. For this reason, the design should take planting season and seed types into consideration. The third year will see meadow establishment, after year one site preparation and year two of seeding. Biennials (plants that bloom every other year) will emerge at this time, creating a signal that the meadow seeds have begun to establish with some diversity. Rudebeckia, Echinacea, and Monarda are some ubiquitous native biennial species that the mix could include.

Planting with plugs and small plants is a great way to establish a native meadow, but is often very cost prohibitive because of the amount of labor and material costs. Similar to the regeneration strategy used in Kohler Ridge’s forest, a method of “patch” planting can establish a patchwork of native plants that eventually spread to form a cohesive ecotone. Because of budgetary reasons, no patch planting has been recommended in Kohler Ridge’s meadow; however, this is a strategy that will be utilized within the forest regeneration zones to re-establish diverse native woodland species. If perennials are planted directly in the meadow, then it is important to practice “companion planting.” This is a practice where one can install a native plant alongside a “protector” plant that has more aggressive root and growth habits. The aggressive plant helps to protect the area around the native, and allows it to thrive without being crowded out by invasive or exotic species. This concept also works for plants that are vulnerable to deer browsing, which can be planted with spiky, fuzzy, or otherwise deerresistant plants.

MEADOW REGENERATION STRATEGIES

mulch or sand is added to the seed, which is typically quite small, to ensure it spreads evenly. Seeding can also be done by hand, but it is typically not as consistent as when completed with a hopper. In larger spaces with low slopes, such as former agricultural fields like Kohler Ridge, seed drills can be used to distribute and lightly rake in seeds, without traditional tilling. These machines are capable of depositing even small seed at a shallow furrow depth, and can be adjusted for a myriad of different seed sizes and distribution rates. After seed is applied, in any method, it may be beneficial to spread a short oat straw mulch, helping to hold moisture while adding a matrix that prevents seed movement during rain Hydromulchingevents. is a similar seeding method where large amounts of seed are distributed within a bulkifying agent, but in this case, it is hosed out along with a “tackifier.” The tackifier is a water-activated substance that creates a permeable yet stable matrix for the seed, and is typically implemented on slopes. This prevents rain from washing away the seed, and is typically utilized on sites where no existing plants or roots hold the seed in place. This methodology wouldn’t be necessary for the meadow, but could be utilized by the Eco-Barn if a large amount of seed is planted along the sloped berm buffer. A more labor-intensive but eco-friendly alternative is to install jute blankets with wide openings that stabilize soil but provide holes for air and water to reach seeds.

WHAT TO PLANT?

The seed mix for Kohler Ridge’s meadow will need to be designed to complement its soil type, drainage, and existing species. The seed mixes should be designed by a landscape architect with a focus in meadow planting and who knows the specific needs of selecting and specifying mixes for pure live 76

The meadow has enormous potential to be a living laboratory for native plants. When niches of plants become established on site, signage or literature that identifies species can help guide educational walks through the site. This place can be a demonstration garden for Kohler Ridge’s neighbors, where they can learn about plants they can grow in their own yards. By showcasing a large number of different grasses and perennials, Kohler Ridge’s meadow can open the minds of many to the merits of native meadow landscapes, especially as a viable alternative to the traditional Jeffersonian lawn.

seed. The mix should include grasses that help to stabilize the ecological function of the meadow, such as Schizachyrium scopraium (Little Bluestem) or Sorghastrum nutans (Indian Grass). A diverse number of flowering forbs should be introduced, with the additional benefit of enhancing food sources and pollinator-rich resources for insects such as bees, wasps, and butterflies. These plants should be selected to provide a range of flowering throughout time, in both warm and cool seasons. The seed mix should also include a cover crop such as clover, rye, flax or indigo (or many others) that assists with fixing soil nitrogen in the critical first year of

Theestablishment.designofthe meadow should have a diverse seed mix, and should also create distinct places within the meadow. It would be a missed opportunity to re-create an even spread of species, when there are so many elements of the site that could be designed and accentuated. Omnes envisions sweeping streams of color throughout the meadow that emphasize different mown pathways, viewsheds, connections between points, and even shifts in the terrain below the planting. There could also be a species transition from the main meadow to the oldfields (woody shrubs) at the very edge of the forest. The design of this critical interface between forest and meadow can be a powerful place to frame views and establish trailhead transitions. The landscape architect who develops the planting plan for the meadow should delineate the design with flags, tape, and temporary marking paint in order to translate design intent from the drawing set. Some of the transition from different seed mixes and types will be an intuitive process, adjusting to viewsheds and connections on site.

• Prairie Moon Nursery of Winona, MN, found at www.prairiemoon.com 77

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• Ernst Conservation Seeds of Meadville, PA, found at www.ernstseeds.com

• New Directions in the American Landscape, found at www.ndal.org

There are a number of helpful resources related to meadow establishment and management that have more information and resources on materials, tools, methodologies, and considerations. Omnes’ favorite resources include:

BLUE

SIGNAGE/INTERPRETIVEDESCRIPTIVE REGENERATIONFORESTZONE MOUNTAINS + KITTATINNY RIDGE CHIMNEY SCULPTURESWIFT

OVERLOOK LOOP

SITE CONNECTIONS

The Woodland Overlook Loop has connections to the forest trail that reaches the top of the ridge and Brickyard Road. It also acts as an important connection point to the neighborhood at the top of the hill, with its location where Franklin Way Street intersects with Brickyard Road. 78

The existing conditions are densely forested trees on a steep slope. Currently there is no way to see beyond the trees from the ridge. There is also no existing ADA access.

EXISTING CONDITIONS

WOODLAND OVERLOOK LOOP N

The Woodland Overlook Loop highlights the natural beauty of the park and broader Lehigh Valley landscape by utilizing the unique vantage point from the top of Brickyard Road towards the Blue Mountains and Kittatinny Ridge beyond. An elevated loop leads you through mature tree canopy to a north-facing overlook point. This spectacular view will be framed by mature forest while overlooking the meadow below. The loop surrounds a central forest regeneration zone that is cleared of mature growth, encouraging young trees and native plants to form a successional forest. This serves as an educational experience, as well as an opportunity for all to gather in the forest along an accessible path.

EXISTING FOREST ROADSIDE ADA PARKING

Helical piles and a metal superstructure for the deck would be preferred to minimize the impact of footings on the shale slope. For economical and maintenance purposes, the construction of the Woodland Overlook Loop is recommended to follow an octagonal geometry (rather than the round circle shown above). 79

BENCHVIEWING MOUNTAINVISTA INTERPRETIVE / DESCRIPTIVE SIGNAGE CANOPY WALK ACCESSIBLE WALK FOREST TRAILFOREST TRAIL REGENERATIONFORESTZONE BRICKYARD ROAD EXISTING FOREST

The Woodland Overlook will be constructed using a metal frame structure starting at grade and rising to 28 feet at the tallest point. Decking will be used for the boardwalk and mounted to the steel structure below. A wood lean with built-signage will be installed directly at the overlook point, printed with interpretive and descriptive signage about forest regeneration and the site’s history. A modern wooden bench will be placed behind the signage. Steel frame railings with wire mesh infill panels will act as protective barriers on the edges. Deer fencing with an access gate will be installed at the ground level below the loop to form a protected forest regeneration zone.

The Overlook Loop is intended to create a fully new access point to otherwise steep, inaccessible terrain. Two ADA-accessible parking spots are proposed adjacent to the entrance to provide equitable access.

MAINTENANCE TASKS

The overlook loop is a low-maintenance area. The octagonal shape of the boardwalk is intended to aid in easy replacement.

IMPLEMENTATION CONSIDERATIONS

MATERIALS + SYSTEMS

USERS + PROGRAMMING

THE MEADOW

The Meadow features perennial wildflowers and grasses with mown pathways winding through. At the center stands an installation reminiscent of the industrial brick-making that formerly took place on the site. The installation includes an arched brick structure that can be walked through, and three brick chimney towers that are designed as nesting sites for Chimney Swifts. These birds have a special relationship to the industrial landscape of the Lehigh Valley as they prefer to nest in tall hollow structures such as dead trees and chimneys; their population has declined following the removal of industrial buildings.

SITE CONNECTIONS

The existing fields at the meadow are dominated by Canadian Goldenrod which is an aggressive species known to crowd out more beneficial native perennials. This is a typical condition for fallow fields that become meadows, where diverse seeds are not present within the seed bank of the soil.

THE MEADOW N

PROPERTYRESIDENTIALADJACENTWETLANDS PLAYNATURALAREA MEADOWNATIVERESTORED NORFOLK TREEHEDGEROWRAILROADSOUTHERNLINE+/BUFFERKITTATINNYZONEREGENERATIONFOREST+VIEWTORIDGE AREAPARKINGPERMEABLE GROVELEARNING SCULPTURESWIFTCHIMNEYNATURALSWALE MOWN TRAILSMEADOW ECO BARN, FOREST GARDEN + SITE BUFFERS 80

EXISTING CONDITIONS

A sun and flower-filled contrast to the adjacent forest, the meadow populates the lower portion of the site and can be accessed by multiple pathways. A private maintenance pathway to the northwest can be used by SWT maintenance crews to access the site with vehicles and mowers.

35’ 132’ 3/4" TREATED PLYWOOD TOP PIECE WITH REDUCED OPENING ON NORTH SIDE (PREVENTS SUMMER HEAT) METAL FLASHING (PREVENTS OTHER ANIMALS FROM CLIMBING IN) SHOWN FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES; NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION. 5/8" TEXTURED 1-11 SIDING WITH GROOVES FACING INSIDE AND RUNNING HORIZONTALLY (HEAVY TEXTURE ESSENTIAL FOR ANGLEDNESTING)STEELLEGS(DETERS ANTS) CHIMNEY SWIFT TOWERS DETAIL 3’ 7" 1’ 8" 4’3" BRICK STANDARDFACADEBRICKS WITH 3/8" JOINTS 3/8" MORTAR 3/4" RIGID FOAM INSULATION 5/8" TEXTURED 1-11 SIDING WITH GROOVES FACING INSIDE AND RUNNING HORIZONTALLY 3/4" TREATED PLYWOOD TOP PIECE WITH REDUCED OPENING ON NORTH SIDE 24" 11’-8" 2’-5" BRICK FACADE BOTTOM WITH VENTILATION 3/4"HOLESTREATED PLYWOOD WITH GRID OF 3/8" HOLES SPACED 1 1/2" APART FOR VENTILATION INSTALLED WITH WOOD SCREWS FOR EASY MAINTENANCEREMOVALOCCURS IN FALL AFTER SWIFTS HAVE MIGRATED OUT OF THE AREA - REMOVE BOTTOM AND CLEAN DROPPINGS STEEL REINFORCED CONCRETE FOUNDATION PLAN ELEVATION N Existing conditions: 1. Flowering Native Snakeroot 2. Canadian Goldenrod 3. Natural low-land swale. 1 32 81

THE MEADOW USERS + PROGRAMMING

Theaccessibility.Chimney Swift ecological habitat will require little maintenance. It should be cleared in fall once the Swifts have left the towers. Remove all droppings and inspect for insect nesting, clearing nesting as necessary. Regular visual inspections are encouraged to ensure that these features have not been vandalized or damaged by other factors.

MATERIALS + SYSTEMS

The Chimney Swift towers and the rounder arched structure are to be constructed with brick facades, in reference to the former brick production of the site. The circular brick enclosure is 30’ in diameter and 8’ high with footings under the perimeter wall. The interior shall be planted with low, walkable perennials. Details for the Chimney Swift towers can be found in the diagram on the previous page. MAINTENANCE TASKS For information on meadow maintenance and establishment, see page 72. The mown meadow paths will need to be mowed approximately twenty times annually, mostly from March to September, to allow for

IMPLEMENTATION CONSIDERATIONS

The Meadow is great for a wide range of populations and uses – from walking and traversing open fields to wildlife viewing and flower gazing. Chimney Swift sightings are likely to occur during nesting season, from the around the third week of April to the first week of October according to the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania. The meadow is also large enough to host ground-nesting birds such as thrushes, sparrows, and juncos. The possibility of sculptural installations within and adjacent to the meadow was discussed with the township as a potential way to activate different areas in the meadow. Although these installations are not included in the budget, placeholders are kept in the illustrative plan to show intended locations for future reference. These sculptural elements are meant to add to the visual experience as well as ecological education aspects of the park. To achieve this vision, Omnes recommends working with a local artist that makes work inspired by ecology and the natural world.

Design of the Chimney Swift towers should pay close attention to the requirements that reference Chimney Swift nesting, such as predator prevention on the exterior, heavy textures on the interior for nesting, and a top opening on the northern side to prevent Foroverheating.moreinformation about Chimney Swifts and their habitats, see the Chimney Swift Conservation Association’s “Chimney Swift Information Handout” at chimneyswifts.org/index_files/Page410.htm.http://www. 82

MEADOW PATHWAYS The mowed meadow paths are meant for walking and traversing the meadow, but also serve a dual purpose to separate the meadow area for potential controlled burning maintenance needs in the future. MEADOW HABITAT MOWN PATH FOR MANAGED BUFFERS + FIRE BREAKS ESTABLISH WOODY SHRUBS AT FOREST EDGE (OLDFIELDS) Height3-4’ Height3-30’ Height18-24" Height18-24"PathMown 5’ 5’8’ - 18’ 83

LEARNING GROVE N

Between the Learning Grove and the small play area (intended for a far future phase) are two metal slides that can be embedded within the quarry slope. They will be surrounded with stone steps that allow users to climb to the top of the slide.

SEATINGGABION

LEARNING GROVE The Learning Grove is the core of environmental education at Kohler Ridge. Sited in the former quarry pit of the Allentown Brick Company, it is a place for students, environmental groups, and the community at large to engage with nature. Multiple tiers of welded wire mesh baskets filled with recycled bricks form an amphitheater-like condition that traces the edges of the quarry. A clearing with level ground is made from recycled concrete pieces, with stabilized granite stone fines between them; this creates a stable ADAaccessible paved surface that can invite flexible uses throughout the seasons. Looking above through the dappled shade of the clearing, an elevated overlook provides an aerial view of the quarry pit and Learning Grove. This encourages users to continue along the trail and find their way to the upper and lower reaches of the ridge.

PAVINGCONCRETERECYCLED OVERLOOKQUARRYBRICK STEEP QUARRY SLOPE HISTORIC QUARRY + FOREST SIGNAGE 84

Existing Conditions: 1. Brick archway remnant adjacent to quarry 2. Steep quarry slope 3. Fallen tree in quarry 4. Forested conditions at the bottom of quarry 5. Unique tree forms at quarry area. 5

42 85

Framed by the steep slopes of the quarry, the existing pit has filtered light and woody vegetation, with more mature trees surrounding the outside of the pit. There are Kentucky Coffee trees growing in the center of the quarry pit, which are an anomaly within the site. Surrounding the pit, the team found remnant subterranean brick structures and smaller pits; these will need to be studied and stabilized/ filled prior to public access to the park.

USERS + PROGRAMMING

EXISTING CONDITIONS

SITE CONNECTIONS

The Learning Grove is intended for small gatherings, such as for outdoor classes or lectures and small gatherings with a minimal amount of attendees.

The Learning Grove is at the heart of the quarry pit, and has connections to the far future phase Natural Play Area to the south, forest to the north, and meadow to the west. The Brick Quarry Overlook at the top of the Learning Grove creates a visual connection that allows visitors to understand the full extent of the quarry. The two slides and boulder steps were specifically sited in the forest to encourage casual play, and also serve as a physical connection to the lower quarry.

The Learning Grove is a low-maintenance gathering space. Tasks will include litter clean up and seasonal sweeping of leaves and debris. Planting should be assessed in the spring and fall for seasonal damage and to monitor for erosion control. The two embankment slides should be inspected weekly for the first four months, and monthly for the remaining months to look for damage, vandalism, loose parts and potential safety hazards. Mulch should be replenished at the based of slides to help with site safety. Signs at the top and bottom of the slide should warn users of risks. N ARCH RUINS

CLEARINGZONEREGENERATIONTHINNEDNATURALREGENERATIONZONE EMBANKMENTSLIDES OVERLOOKSWOODLAND 86

MATERIALS + SYSTEMS

The materials of the Learning Grove were intentionally chosen to be recycled, sustainable, and low-maintenance. The space is imagined to blend into the quarry pit and form a place that feels a part of the natural Weldedecosystem.wiremesh baskets are filled with recycled stone or brick infill. The use of bricks would make a direct connection to the site history. Recycled concrete and decomposed granite stone fines are repurposed as paving. The site also includes educational signs identifying the former quarry and its use.

LEARNING GROVE LEARNINGGROVE BRICK

MAINTENANCE TASKS

IMPLEMENTATION CONSIDERATIONS

The site will have to be cleared of overgrown species and any invasive plants such as poison ivy. Due to the nature of the quarry, a geotechnical engineer should advise on any necessary slope or stone face stabilization that could impact safety or access to the site. This should also include an investigation of the sub-surface condition of the quarry, to avoid any future sinkholes or instability.

BRICK QUARRY OVERLOOK N 88

EXISTING CONDITIONS

BRICK QUARRY OVERLOOK This elevated walkway is made up of two boardwalk wings featuring views at the ends – into the quarry / learning grove area to the north, and to the forest regeneration zone to the east. Views are framed by a modern wooden trellis that provides the feeling of walking through a tunnel with a form that takes cues from the sites agricultural past. The elevated structure puts users within the tree canopy, providing a new and unique perspective of the forest.

USERS + PROGRAMMING

Metal railings with X-tend wire mesh infill panel

SITE CONNECTIONS

The entrance to this overlook can be accessed at the intersection of three forest trails coming from the east, west and north.

Wood overhead trellis beams –thermally modified Ash 10’ from decking to peak of Deckingstructuremounted to steel structure below Wood lean (Thermally-modifiedrail Ash)

This area is meant for passive recreation, wildlife watching, and views. There is no

10’

The area is characterized by a steep slope and dense forest, making it difficult terrain to access on the ground level. There is a narrow area where the overlooks connect downward to the main parking lot and gardens. These trails should have guardrails and/or warning signs at the top of the quarry slope to protect users from steep or slippery conditions. From the overlooks, a steep trail guides users to the top of Kohler Ridge and toward the Woodland Overlook Loop.

This is a low-maintenance area. Observation of structural damage should be monitored and repaired to ensure safe usage.

IMPLEMENTATION CONSIDERATIONS

This project is a far-future phase that is not integral to the experience of the park, but enhances it through framed views and providing a new technical trail. Construction over the shale slope should be carefully considered for ensuring structural integrity and minimizing erosion. The geotechnical and structural engineer should explore helical piers to minimize site disturbance.

31 542 89

Existing Conditions: 1. Wooded area looking towards the meadow 2. Canopy with pine tree 3. Forested zone with patches of light 4. Rocky uneven terrain 5. Steep slope in drier terrain intention for events or gatherings on the overlook. MATERIALS + SYSTEMS The overlook is supported by a steel structure with helical piles. Both wings of the structure start at grade with the eastern wing raising to fifteen feet in height, and the western wing raising to eight and a half feet above grade, with bulk of the walkway rising between zero to five feet above grade. The boardwalk is made up of decking mounted to the steel structure below. Wooden overhead trellis beams and lean rail are constructed from sustainable thermally-modified Ash, and further protection is provided by steel frame railings with X-tend wire mesh infill panels.

MAINTENANCE TASKS

The Forest Garden is designed to be a “food forest” and is guided by permaculture principles such as companion planting and tree guilds (mini edible ecosystems). The gardens also provide what 47% percent of survey participants asked to see – pollinator gardens. A total of 36% also requested native plant restoration, which surrounds the gardens in berms and buffers.

View of Eco-Barn and Gardens with the parking area below (Rendering depicts Eco-Barn Option A)

ADA PATH N

ECO BARN + FOREST GARDEN

ECO-BARN + FOREST GARDEN

The site was previously a residential plot with a house and garage. Both structures are in poor condition and in need of removal. More information is needed about the septic 90

The Eco-Barn serves as an important allseason indoor amenity for the community, and is surrounded by Forest Gardens consisting of edible trees, shrubs, and perennial planting. The Eco-Barn is a demonstration of sustainable systems and principles, and is a place for SWT to expand its programming for picnics, classes, educational programs, summer camp use, and as a small space that can be rented for events. The building itself is embedded in the sloped landscape and maintains the overall ecological ethos of the master plan by recommending passive solar and sustainable architecture strategies, and composting toilets.

PATHWAY&ECO-BARNENTRY WALLSGABIONGROVEPICNIC& PORCHCONCRETERECYCLED GARDENSPERMACULTURE NATIVE PLANT BUFFER / BERM COMPOSTINGLOTGRAVELPERMEABLESLOPETREESEXISTING& SWALESTORMWATERCENTRAL

EXISTING CONDITIONS

Entry signage using reclaimed stones and Corten steel signage adjacent to the Eco-Barn (rendering depicts Eco-Barn Option A) system and possible cesspool in order to determine the best option for siting the new structure. Because of this unknown condition, Omnes provided three scenarios for the site (see page 94). Option A within the final plan budget includes the Eco-Barn, composting toilets, water connections, and a new septic system (as depicted in renderings).

USERS + PROGRAMMING

An ADA accessible ramp is proposed to wind up the steep slope between the parking area and Eco-Barn. A vehicular path to the east of the Barn allows for loading and access by Public Works, as well as emergency vehicles. A trail through the Forest Garden leads to a forest trail at the southern edge.

Omnes has provided the concept for the building though a local licensed architect with knowledge of passive-solar and green building principles should be consulted for the construction of this building. 91

The indoor space provides year-round programming opportunities and is sized to accommodate a 30-person class including floor space for activities like yoga. A sink inside the space provides expanded opportunity for education, crafts, and use for seeding and propagation of plants in winter.

SITE CONNECTIONS

MATERIALS + SYSTEMS

• Plant beds formed from trees on site, creating hügelkultur mounds

• All wood should be FSC-certified, and all concrete should contain post-consumer recycled aggregate

• The front porch is to be constructed with reclaimed recycled pieces and stone fines, similar to the Learning Grove, or can be simplified to consist only of stabilized stone fines Food forest + craft garden materials include: • 3” B&B Fruit trees & watering bags

• Exhibit space – simple wood shelving for a gallery wall space and moveable wood pedestal for sculpture / installation display; this could display donated objects from the Kohler Family, rotating artwork / installations from local artists, or ecological information

• 12’ long wood topped tables with movable chairs

• Ceiling-mounted projector • Interior tables to be wood tables with movable seating

• Compost bays – 3 sided CMU structures with floorsconcreteusingrecycled aggregate

• Exterior doors to be solid core wood

• Concrete basement with stairs & Bilco door for access; toilet holding tanks and necessary equipment in basement

• Exterior finishes: Cedar siding and standing seam steel roof, aluminum gutters with rain chains / rain barrels for manual irrigation

• Finishes: polished concrete floors; Ceramic tile walls, commercial grade low-flow fixtures

• Welded wire mesh Gabion basket retaining walls with reclaimed stone/ rubble from site or sourced reclaimed stone/rubble

Proposed Eco-Barn materials include:

• Any interior doors to be sliding barn doors

• Because of poor drainage, assume active sump pump in basement and include continuous sheeting and drain at perimeter of foundation

• Understory shrub and perennial plantings

• Temporary deer protection

• Waste Receptacles - Litter bins with trash, recycling and compost options 92

• Timber frame structure with wood framing and high R-value insulation

• Composting toilets with liquid separation. ADA-accessible sinks, mirror, electrical hand-dryers, and commercial-grade toilet paper dispensers

• Exposed timber frame walls with insulation / gypsum between; include receptacles every 12’ o.c., on average Ceiling fans for summertime cooling

• Custom seed mix understory

ECO-BARN

• Double casement wood frame windows with triple-glazed low-e glass and screens

• HVAC: integral electrical radiant heat within concrete floors; supply venting fans in bathrooms

• Recycled Concrete Step stone paths; irregular reclaimed concrete slabs with stabilized stone fines at joints between

• Overhead lighting – assume fixtures every 8’ o.c. on average

• Sealed concrete counter top with wood cabinets below • Built in under-mounted stainless steel sink

51' 7" 28.5' N 1/8" = 1'-0" LARGE SWINGING BARN DOORS WRAP AROUND FRONTHALLWAYACCESSPORCH FOR VISITOR ISWHEN(INCLUDINGUSEECOBARNCLOSED) SHELVESSTORAGE MOVABLE PEDESTALSWOOD APPROX AREA NEEDED FOR 30-PERSON YOGA CLASS BASEMENT MAINTENANCEFOR MAINTENANCE ACCESS BILCO DOORS STEPS BELOW GRADE IN BILCO ENCLOSURE 2 RESTROOMS WITH COMPOSTING TOILETS PLAN + BUILDING DETAILS FORE BAY STRUCTURE WITH PASSIVE-SOLAR DESIGN STRATEGY A1 64' 28.5' 9.5' 18.5' 9'-0" 1/8" = 1'-0" A1 - SECTION THROUGH RESTROOMS WINDOWS FOR WINTER SUN + VENTILATION FOR SUMMER HEAT SLANTED ROOF FOR SUMMER SHADE + WINTER LIGHT TIMBER HEATWITHCONCRETEMETALCEDARSTRUCTUREFRAMEWITHSIDINGANDROOFFLOORSRADIANT BASEMENT - ONLY UNDERNEATH TOILET AREA MAINTENANCE ACCESS BILCO DOORS STEPS BELOW GRADE IN BILCO ENCLOSURE 93

ECO-BARN FOREST GARDEN

The Eco-Barn will require maintenance due to the amount and types of activity expected and how access to the building is controlled. It is anticipated that the toilets can be open dusk to dawn, while the separately accessed Eco-Barn is open only for events. Weekly tasks will focus on emptying of trashcans, litter removal, keeping the site clean, and visually inspecting to identify any potential work that needs to be done.

It is assumed that some hard paved areas around the Eco-Barn will receive snow management in the winter. Deicer or salt

PATH PATH PATH PATH PATH BUFFERMEADOWPOLLINATOR+PLANTLAYERED TREE GUILD EDIBLE AND(FRUITGARDENSTREESUNDERSTORYPLANTINGS)LOW MAINTENANCE LOW-GROW NATIVE LAWN AREA PERRENIAL HERB + EDIBLE GARDEN ACCESS PATH FROM PARKING + RAMP SLOPECRAFTSTABILIZING/EDIBLEPLANTINGS A A’ Reclaimed rock wall with entry signage Layered tree guilds arranged for best solar exposure Edible plantings and “Hugelkultur” beds Slope stabilizing trees and shrubs (Willow (craft), Sumac Outdoor(edible).harvest table picnicPerennialarea herb + Edible garden Eco Barn Maintenancesouth.porch”exhibitkitchenette,flexcompostingwithtoilets,space,andspace.”Frontseatingareatoaccessdrive ENTRY DRIVE SETBACK30’ BIOSWALEPARKINGBRICKYARDROAD BERM SECTION A-A’ SEE ENLARGEMENT AT RIGHT FOREST GARDEN 94

MAINTENANCE TASKS

FOREST GARDEN

on the ground and minimize trip hazards. Cleanup will be done approximately once per week to keep the fallen fruit manageable and discourage unwanted pests. Routine maintenance in the establishment phase of the plantings will include watering, weeding, dead heading, and minor pruning. Mulch application in spring and fall will help trees and shrubs gain nutrients, retain water, and insulate from sun and cold.

Pollinator Meadow within 30’ SWT Setback 7’ PlantedHigh Berm Terracedtreesbetweenpathwayfruitandberryshrubs Nut Trees / Nitrogen Fixing (fertilizing)Trees LAYERED TREE GUILD VISUAL AND SOUND BUFFER Fruit Trees Berry Shrubs FOOD FOREST + PLANTED BUFFER DETAIL

are discouraged, but some abrasives such as sand may be used, as well as rock salt alternatives such as magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, or epsom salts.

Maintenance in the Forest Garden will require higher care in the first years of establishment as well as some pruning, but is intended to be lower a maintenance than fruit trees in an orchard. Maintenance in the proposed food forest trees will be less intensive and more similar to the typical park trees. The grounds where the fruit and nut trees stand will require more frequent cleanup during the productive months to prevent the food rotting

ECO-BARN + RESTROOMS - OPTION A

If traditional toilets with septic system are used in the Eco Barn, the toilets will require a similar cleaning schedule, cleaning it once to twice per week. The more traditional system may see clogs or other drainage issues that will need to be managed. Additionally, visual inspection should be done on the leach field to ensure there are no leaks or clogs. Look out for signs such as lush and dense planting, which may be an indicator of leaks. Mushy grounds, standing water, odor, and slow draining fields are indicators of potential clogs.

ECO-BARN RESTROOMS

Beneficial bacteria may be added to the tank for better decomposition. The tank should be inspected and maintained on an annual basis, this may include the pressure distribution system, mound or sand filter

If compostable toilets are used in the Eco Barn, the toilets will be cleaned approximately once to twice a week. The composting chamber will be managed on a monthly basis, where pine shavings will be added to the pile and raked in. Vermiculture may be added to encourage better decomposition. When the compost material reaches a certain capacity, it will need to be removed. Follow the local waste management regulations to determine whether this material can be used on-site as compost (ideal in the forests). Local codes might determine the compost as material similar to a septic tank and not allow its use on site. In this case, the compost material would need to be disposed of properly by a specialized company.

OPTIONS B + C

OPTION A BARN WITH COMPOSTING TOILETS ACCESS DRIVE ECO BARN ONE STRUCTURESTORYATGRADE COMPOSTING TOILETS WITH BASEMENT + AT GRADE ACCESS EXTEND EXISTING POWER AND WATER LINES AT STRUCTUREEXISTING (PARKING LOT) MAINTENANCE OPTION CONVENTIONALB PLUMBING WITH SEPTIC SYSTEM OPTION PRE-FABRICATEDC RESTROOMS ACCESS DRIVE ACCESS DRIVE ECO BARN ONE CONVENTIONALSTRUCTURESTORYPLUMBING+SEPTIC TAP INTO EXISTING POWER AND WATER LINES AT STRUCTURELINESPOWERTAPSTRUCTUREEXISTINGINTOEXISTINGANDWATERATEXISTINGSTRUCTURERESTROOMPREFABRICATED (PARKING LOT) (PARKING LOT) MAINTENANCEMAINTENANCEZONESEPTICTBD ALT COST OFINSTALLATIONFORNEWSEPTIC 96

IMPLEMENTATION CONSIDERATIONS Eco-Barn Option A has been included in the base phasing for the project, with the intention of the building anchoring an experience for environmental education and showcasing alternate eco-friendly solutions.

system, and any other system that is installed with the septic tank. Pumping of tank will be needed depending on use, it is anticipated that pumping is needed once every 2-3 years.

Biosolids Finished Aircompostflow COMPOSTING TOILETS AT ECO BARN FLOOR Toilet Vent with rain cover Access doorExcessFan liquid drain 97

and bioswale with native

PERMEABLE PARKING AND BIOSWALE

The parking area is located at the western side of the existing quarry site. This site was chosen because of its proximity to the existing SWT soil stockpiles that are recommended to be used to fill and level the parking area and because it is located in an already disturbed portion of the site. During the pre-construction phase, a geotechincal assesment should be performed to determine if any underground structures / voids exist. If structures / voids are discovered they will need to be filled with clean fill. The need for additional geotechnical work to stabilize soils should also be assessed. 98

The parking area is designed to be embedded in the landscape by incorporating low-impact and natural materials as well as a bioswale raingarden for enhanced ecological function and educational experience. A sculptural entry “portal” with park signage and maps is located at the east side of the parking lot to act as an informational threshold to the forest and meadow area beyond. This has been included in the signage phasing of the project. The sculptural form recalls a geological past –referencing the topographic slope of the landform beyond prior to excavation for the brick quarry.

parking

Permeable lot plantings

and recycled concrete step stones PERMEABLE PARKING + BIOSWALE N

EXISTING CONDITIONS

Visitors entering from Brickyard Road will drive past the wetland area to reach the parking area. From the parking lot, visitors will have easy access to the trail systems located to the east, or the ramp to the EcoBarn to the west. Access to the Brick Quarry Overlook trail is located to the south of the Eco-Barn.

USERS + PROGRAMMING

Bioswale with step stone pathway Native rain garden plantings Overflow drain

PERMEABLE

MATERIALS + SYSTEMS

The parking area will be constructed with permeable local gravel paving. General signage for parking and park rules will be installed at the entry and trailhead. Welded wire mesh gabion basket retaining walls should be installad at the edge of the parking area as needed to retain earth, along with railings at the locations where there is more than 2.5’ of grade change, such as the eastern edge. A central bioswale will aid in rainwater capture to minimize flooding. The swale is to be planted with drought and flood 99

SITE CONNECTIONS

The parking area is necessary to accommodate visitors who are traveling by car, which is the dominant mode of transportation in this area according to project surveys. This parking lot accommodates 51 parking spaces including three ADA spaces.

Underdrain within gravel layer Monitoring vault Permeable gravel paving PAVING AND BIOSWALE AT PARKING AREA

SLOPED SIGNAGEPARKINTEGRATEDEXCAVATEDREFERENCESROOFLAND SIGNAGEPARKINTEGRATED PERMEABLE PARKING + BIOSWALE SLOPED (REFERENCESROOF LAND SURFACE PRIOR TO QUARRYSURFACEWOODENGABIONSEXCAVATION)WITHSEATING POINT7’WALLRETAINING-ATTALLEST WITHHANDRAILMESHSIGNAGEPARKINTEGRATED 15’ SIGNAGEPARKINTEGRATED Sculptural entry “portal” signage and gabion retaining walls on the east edge of parking area Signage types and locations throughout the park 40"24"36"3" 3" 3" 5" LARGE SIGNAGE SMALL PLANT ID SIGNAGE LOCATED ALONG PATH WAYS AND GATHERING AREAS LARGE STONESITELOCATIONSSIGNAGEENTRYSIGNAGE PORTAL W/ PARK SIGNAGEINFO 100

tolerant “rain garden” perennials and trees. A simplified version without excess piping is proposed for this site to maintain an economical cost, however the option for upgrading to a system with monitoring and overflow structures can be considered by SWT after evaluation of site drainage needs and the NPDES permit.

MAINTENANCE TASKS

The bioswale, as a stormwater management element, may be susceptible to minor erosion and will require inspection and repair as needed. Sediment may also build up in these areas and will require occasional removal to protect the health of the plant community and ensure that the system is functioning as intended. It is assumed that the driveway and parking lot will receive snow management in the winter. Deicer or salt are discouraged, but some abrasives such as sand may be used, as well as rock salt alternatives such as magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, or epsom salts.

IMPLEMENTATION CONSIDERATIONS

A geotechnical consultant is recommended to advise on slope stabilization in the slopes adjacent to the parking area, and drainage and grading should be designed. A NPDES permit is likely needed for the construction of the Eco-Barn. 101

The sculptural entry portal with Site Map signage at pathway leading from parking to start of trail network will be made using a custom corten steel frame with a removable plexiglas panel to allow for changing of site signage and trails maps.

EXISTING CONDITIONS

MATERIALS + SYSTEMS Play amenities are intended to be offshelf items made from wood and steel components. Natural play area at left and Willow Grove to the

Different types of play amenities are provided to serve the needs for kids of all ages. A sensory experience amenity is proposed as a quieter option, and is also ADA accessible.

Above:

102right

SITE CONNECTIONS

NATURE PLAY N

NATURE PLAY

The Natural Play area is a place with amenities for kids made from natural materials that reference the surrounding forest and provide a safe place for multiple ages and diverse needs. The play area enhances the environmental education component of the park, but is a future phase of scope that is not critical to passive use of Kohler Ridge Park.

The site is located at the edge of the forest adjacent to the current soil stock pile area and wetland. The site is intended to be cleared of trees that are invasive species, diseased trees, and/or trees causing a safety hazard.

The nature play area is located in the “active zone” adjacent to the parking area and is surrounded by the willow grove and forest areas.

USERS + PROGRAMMING

Safety recommendations include proper spacing and materials for safe access and play activities. The following safety recommendations are incorporated in the design for the Natural Play area:

SCULPTURAL SENSORY ADACOLORED(TOUCH,EXPERIENCESOUND,LIGHT)ACCESSIBLE

MAINTENANCE TASKS

Frequent inspections of the play features during the first year are recommended to establish an understanding of the patterns of use. The proposed play features are not typical and use natural materials. These play features encourage children to play unconventionally, and certain areas of the features may get worn out faster than others.

Natural play

SMALL LOG PILE LARGE LOG PILE STEPPING LOGS SEATINGGABION

IMPLEMENTATION CONSIDERATIONS

• Zone for slides: less than 6’ high = 72”, above 6’ = equal to or greater than the highest point of the slide to the surface (up to 96”)

Frequent inspections will help establish a better understanding of how children will play on these features and how to best focus maintenance efforts.

• ADA access: 60” minimum width for paths, 80” min overhead clearance, 6.25% slope maximum • Mulch: 7”-10” deep – dependent on product

103

• Barrier around perimeters: add a hedge or fence at edges where kids might wander off

• Fall Zones: 72” around perimeter of amenities that are taller than 30”

• Seating: place seating around perimeter for caretakers, with sight lines to all areas area

The Wetland Walk is a place for all ages and backgrounds. It is an easy and ADAaccessible route that is educational and immersive in a wetland ecosystem.

SITE CONNECTIONS

WETLAND WALK

EXISTING CONDITIONS

WILLOW GROVE NATURE PLAY LEARNINGGROVEBIOSWALEPARKINGRAINGARDENWITHSTEPSTONES ECO BARN + FOREST GARDEN WETLAND EXISTINGPROPERTYRESIDENTIAL BOARDWALKS FORESTEDBUFFER N WETLAND WALK

The proposed Wetland Walk is an opportunity to demonstrate the ecological value of wetlands in suburban environments. The walk ventures out through the middle of the wetland zone, and turns to extend east, where it ends between the Willow Grove and Nature Play areas. This path connects multiple areas in the active zone of the park, forming an “Eco Education Loop” shown in the plan above.

USERS + PROGRAMMING

The existing lowland areas consist of clay soils that retain puddles of water and emergent wetland plants such as cattails. The wetland has not been delineated.

ECO EDUCATION LOOP

The boardwalk can be accessed from the northwest corner of the parking area, adjacent to the Eco Barn and Forest Garden, and from the Willow Grove and Nature Play areas to the east on the other end.

Signage on the Wetland Walk will show native species, life that is active in the wetland, and how it changes throughout the seasons. This can be used by local schools 104

Assuming they will be low impact for geotechnical disturbance, helical piers are to be installed in the wetland and mounted with a metal frame structure for decking. Decking allows the walk to be ADA accessible, with paths wide enough for wheelchair access and companions. A Corten steel toe rail is to be installed at the edges for safety purposes.

CONSIDERATIONS

When the site is surveyed, the wetland area should also be delineated. The design of the Wetland Walk is a far future phase of work. It should be assumed that special permitting for wetland access is needed.

MAINTENANCE TASKS

Existing Conditions: 1. Debris and rubble 2. Mud mixing with asphalt material 3. Dense vegetation in moist soil 4. Vegetation growing in clay 5. Puddle with wetland vegetation including cattails.

31 542 105

MATERIALS + SYSTEMS

IMPLEMENTATION

The wetland boardwalk is a low-maintenance area. Routine maintenance will include general cleaning of litter and surface, seasonal power-washing, and boardwalk maintenance and repair.

and camps for environmental education, and encourages the public to learn more about native wetland types and palustrine plant communities in Pennsylvania.

COST ESTIMATE + PHASED

PLANDEVELOPMENTCAPITAL

ELEVATED COSTS

A 12% contingency has been applied to each planning phase in order to account for the ambiguity of the cost estimate in the early planning stages. 106

CONTINGENCIES

This section includes cost estimates for various phases of the master plan, which provide a path forward for phased capital development of Kohler Ridge Park. The planning team recommends the implementation of key phases of “highest priority” for the park to be successfully open to the public, while other phases are considered additional amenities that would further enhance the park experience but are not necessary. The phasing estimate at right denotes these distinct phases. The cost estimate on the following pages used cost resources provided by Dharam Consulting, and the planning team interpreted their cost guidelines to establish the capital development plan. This estimate should be considered an “order-ofmagnitude” cost instead of an official cost opinion.

COST ESTIMATE

Due to acute inflation, material shortages, and supply chain challenges, the costs shown in the estimate are elevated above “normal” levels that were experienced prior to the COVID-19 public health crisis. The costs shown are roughly 20% higher than the costs and labor would “normally” be. This should be noted by SWT when applying for grants and planning for future implementation, as the costs may vary (greater or lesser) from current estimates. Because of this variation, the costs are shown with no escalation per phase; this should be calculated with current inflationary escalation based upon the projected year of implementation.

1 4 6 5 7 8 2 23 9 10 PRIORITY PHASE COST TOTAL WITH SOFT COSTS CONTINGENCY+ PAGESEE 1 SITE PREPARATION, ACCESS & PARKING $362,815.00 $504,312.85 108 2 MEADOW & FOREST REGENERATION $167,846.00 $233,305.94 109 3 ECO-BARN OPTION A (NOT INCLUDING ADD-ALTS FOR GREEN ROOF, SOLAR ROOF, OR WATER TREATMENT) $648,590.56 $901,540.88 110 SUBTOTAL $1,179,251.56 $1,639,159.67 4 OVERLOOK LOOP $507,848.00 $629,731.52 113 5 LEARNING GROVE $81,500.00 $113,285.00 114 6 WILLOW GROVE, SIGNAGE & SITE AMENITIES $33,865.00 $47,072.35 115 7 FOOD FOREST & CRAFT GARDENS $88,650.00 $123,223.50 116 8 NATURAL PLAY AREA $195,430.00 $271,647.70 117 SUBTOTAL $907,293.00 $1,184,960.07 9 CANOPY WALK $294,320.00 $409,104.80 118 10 ECOLOGICAL ART - BRICK INSTALLATION WITH BIRD HABITAT TOWERS $207,206.75 $288,017.38 119 SUBTOTAL $501,526.75 $697,122.18 BASE SCOPE / HIGHEST"NICEADD-ONMID-TERMPRIORITYSCOPELONG-TERMTOHAVE"SCOPE 107

PHASE SUMMARY

11 Remove

UTILITIES

This first phase focuses on access to the western parcel for parking, and also demolishes the existing house and garage. Improvements include permeable parking, a central bioswale in the parking area, pathways, and site signage. Planting improvements are limited to clearing of hazardous trees and invasive species, as well as installing a bermed native buffer surrounding the property.

SITE

LANDSCAPE

Prior to this work being completed, SWT should apply for all necessary stormwater and building permits. A geotechnical investigation should also take place, as outlined in Chapter 05.

32 Bond

SOFT COSTS & CONTINGENCIES ITEM

PRE-CONSTRUCTION PLANNING COSTS

PHASE ONE: SITE PREP & ACCESS

33 Contingency

34 Professional

108

SUBTOTAL

BASE COSTS ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL REMARKS PREPARATION $151,500.00 Site Protection & Erosion Control 1 LS $10,000.00 $10,000.00 Silt Fencing 1000 LF $4.00 $4,000.00 3 Temporary Parking/Staging 2500 SF $4.00 $10,000.00 Remove Site Stockpiles Public Works to complete prior to mobilization Utility Protection 1 LS $2,500.00 $2,500.00 Site Grading & Cut/Fill - Eco-Barn and Parking Area 5000 CY $25.00 $125,000.00 & EARTH MOVING $54,025.00 Demolish House / Garage and Driveway 5000 SF $8.00 $40,000.00 Stockpile/clean stones from house 1 LS $3,500.00 $3,500.00 Demolish existing septic/cesspool 1200 SF $8.00 $9,600.00 Backfill former septic/cesspool 37 CY $25.00 $925.00 or backfill voids under parking area Requires geotechnical investigation $83,600.00 Parking Bioretention swales 2000 SF $30.00 $60,000.00 Stormwater Perforated Drain, Storm Pipe & Fittings 100 LF $65.00 $6,500.00 Stormwater Outlets 3 EA $850.00 $2,550.00 Stormwater Inlets 3 EA $850.00 $2,550.00 Stormwater Structure & Pump Station 1 EA $12,000.00 $12,000.00 ELEMENTS $20,700.00 Entryway - Corten Steel Signage at Gabion Wall 1 EA $4,000.00 $4,000.00 Site Portal Entry with Signage (and Foundation) 1 EA $15,000.00 $15,000.00 Parking Signage 1 EA $500.00 $500.00 Portable Restroom Allowance - 1 year 12 MO $100.00 $1,200.00

Engineering

HARDSCAPE $19,140.00 Lay Aggregate Paving for parking 140 CY $35.00 $4,900.00 Site Walls from Reclaimed Stone 550 SF $20.00 $11,000.00 Welded Wire Mesh Gabion Basket Walls 80 SF $30.00 $2,400.00 Site Walls aggregate backfill 21 CY $20.00 $420.00 Guardrails at entry 21 CY $20.00 $420.00 $33,850.00 Soil testing 10 EA $110.00 $1,100.00 Site perimeter berm - soil & mulch 325 CY $30.00 $9,750.00 Trees - Bare Root (1-1.5" caliper) 150 EA $75.00 $11,250.00 Planting to be done by volunteers Buffer planting - Woody Shrubs - 3 Gallon 450 EA $25.00 $11,250.00 Planting to be done by volunteers Buffer planting - Spread Seed mix for perennials 10 LB $50.00 $500.00 Seed spreading can be done by volunteers COSTS-SUBTOTALHARD $362,815.00 NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL Mobilization and Layout 1 12.00% $43,537.80 $43,537.80 1 12.00% $43,537.80 $43,537.80 Fees - Design and 1 15.00% $54,422.25 $54,422.25SOFT COSTS $141,497.85 $504,312.85

SITE

TOTALGRAND

DEMOLITION

BASE COSTS

ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL REMARKS

Restoration of the meadow includes site preparation, seeding, and establishment. Forest restoration includes clearing hazardous and diseased trees, as well as trees within “regeneration zones.” Trails are established, along with diverse understory planting and erosion control at the reservoir outfall.

COSTS-SUBTOTALHARD

SOFT COSTS ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL REMARKS 15 Bond Mobilization and Layout 1 12.00% $20,141.52 $20,141.52 16 Contingency 1 12.00% $20,141.52 $20,141.52 17 Professional Fees - Design and Engineering 1 15.00% $25,176.90 $25,176.90 COSTS-SUBTOTALSOFT $55,310.40 TOTALGRAND $233,305.94 109

PHASE SUMMARY

6 Deer Fencing at regeneration zones 2075 LF $4.00 $8,300.00 Labor for placement could be a volunteer effort

4 Place riprap stone at reservoir outfall 40 CY $20.00 $800.00

PRE-CONSTRUCTION PLANNING COSTS

9 Soil testing 10 EA $110.00 $1,100.00

Prior to this phase, a tree survey shall be developed by an arborist. It should outline hazardous and diseased trees to be removed, as well as existing trees and their size/species. A landscape architect should design and assist with meadow restoration.

SITE PREPARATION $236,500.00

8 Form trails: cut understory, lay mulch 2250 LF $7.00 $15,750.00

10 Seed Mix in Meadow - Grand Diversity Mix (Prairie Moon Nursery) 12 EA $2,718.00 $32,616.00 13 lb/acre. Spreading by volunteers Sow low-mow eco-grass 300 EA $5.25 $1,575.00 300 lb/acre. Spreading can be by volunteers - FOREST $45,905.00 Soil testing 4 EA $110.00 $440.00 Seed Mix - Shady Woodland in Forest Clearings & Regeneration zones (Prairie Moon Nursery) 7 EA $6,120.00 $42,840.00 7 acres. 13 lb/acre. Spreading can be by volunteers Understory Trees - Bare Root (1-1.5" caliper) 35 EA $75.00 $2,625.00 Planting can be done by volunteers. $167,846.00

PHASE TWO: MEADOW & FOREST REGENERATION

LANDSCAPE

LANDSCAPE - MEADOW $35,291.00

5 Crib Log Erosion Control 90 EA $125.00 $11,250.00 Labor for staking could be a volunteer effort

7 Gates at Regeneration Zones 6 EA $425.00 $2,550.00

1 Tree removal + stump seating,wood chips for trails 1 ALLOW $45,000.00 $45,000.00 Tree survey to determine amount 2 Prune birch at oldfields 1 ALLOW $1,500.00 $1,500.00

DEMOLITION & EARTH MOVING $40,150.00

3 Utility Protection (pipeline at Southern Parcel) 1 LS $1,500.00 $1,500.00

BASE COSTS ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL REMARKS

6 Accessible ramp - concrete, aggregate base, excavation & hauling 140 CY $50.00 $7,000.00 Accessible ramp handrail - powdercoated finish 220 LF $200.00 $44,000.00 8 Accessible ramp handrail - powdercoated finish 1075 SF $35.00 $37,625.00

34 Joint

33 Vapor

COMPOSTING

5 Vehicular access path - asphalt & aggregate base, excavation & hauling 115 CY $50.00 $5,750.00

SUPERSTRUCTURE

40 Exterior

35 Steel

31 Cedar

PHASE SUMMARY

30 CLT

37 Aluminum

This option for the Eco-Barn includes a timber-frame eco-barn with flexible space capable of holding 35 people, and space for SWT storage. The estimate includes grading, walls, and pathways necessary for the steep grade change. It also includes bathrooms with composting toilets. The building will utilize the existing public water connection from the demolished house. Because composting toilets are used, there is no need for a septic system; a greywater system by the same manufacturer as the composting toilets has been included for the processing of sink water used in the public bathrooms.

FOUNDATIONS & SLABS $45,383.50 9 4' CIP Spread Footings - Concrete 40 CY $150.00 $6,000.00 10 4' CIP Spread Footings - Reinforcement 4000 LB $1.50 $6,000.00 4' CIP Spread Footings - Formwork 1290 SF $11.00 $14,190.00 Slab on Grade - Concrete 18 CY $150.00 $2,700.00 Slab on Grade - Reinforcement 1450 SF $1.50 $2,175.00 Slab on Grade - Formwork 116 SF $11.00 $1,276.00 Crushed Stone under Slab on Grade 24 CY $20.00 $480.00 Vapor Retarder 1450 SF $4.25 $6,162.50 French drain at basement outside wall 160 LF $40.00 $6,400.00 TOILET & GREYWATER INFRASTRUCTURE $66,475.00 Excavation & Bilco Door Steps 1 LS $3,000.00 $3,000.00 Basement - Concrete 3 CY $150.00 $450.00 Basement - Reinforcement 3250 SF $1.50 $4,875.00 Basement - Formwork 1650 SF $11.00 $18,150.00 Composting Toilets 2 EA $15,000.00 $30,000.00 Greywater Infrastructure 1 EA $10,000.00 $10,000.00 For sink drainage FINISHES $4,400.00 Sink Mirror 2 EA $125.00 $250.00 Dryer 2 EA $500.00 $1,000.00 Exhaust Fans 2 EA $400.00 $800.00 Tile 1350 SF $1.00 $1,350.00 Finishes & Fixtures 1 ALLOW $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $110,250.00 Frame 1450 SF $35.00 $50,750.00 Frame & Roof Frame 1700 SF $35.00 $59,500.00 & ROOF $119,138.75 Siding 1575 SF $21.25 $33,468.75 Insulation 1575 SF $6.00 $9,450.00 Barrier (Walls & Roof) 3255 SF $8.00 $26,040.00 Sealant 1575 SF $1.00 $1,575.00 Roof 1650 SF $20.00 $33,000.00 1650 SF $7.50 $12,375.00 Gutter & Drain 190 LF $17.00 $3,230.00 & WINDOWS $46,150.00 Windows - 5x5' 6 EA $3,000.00 $18,000.00 Windows - 1.5x4' 6 EA $2,000.00 $12,000.00 Door 1 EA $3,400.00 $3,400.00 Barn Door 1 EA $6,375.00 $6,375.00 Interior Sliding Barn Door 3 EA $2,125.00 $6,375.00 INTERIOR $20,881.25 Interior Gypsum Walls 625 SF $12.75 $7,968.75 Paint 1650 SF $1.05 $1,732.50 Concrete Countertops 22 SF $65.00 $1,430.00 46 Cabinets 9 LF $250.00 $2,250.00 Movable Furnishings - Adirondack Chairs 6 EA $250.00 $1,500.00 Movable Furnishings - Wood Tables & Chairs 3 EA $2,000.00 $6,000.00

38 Casement

PHASE THREE: ECO-BARN - OPTION A

Design-build or integrated design services for Architecture should be considered to arrive at a lower cost for design, materials and labor. Other professional services should include a survey; Civil, MEP, and Structural Engineering; and Architecture and Landscape Architecture.110

2 Fine grading of soils - Remove & deposit / regrade at parking area and outside eco-barn; coordination w. PH1 120 CY $20.00 $2,400.00 Dewatering 1 ALLOW $1,500.00 $1,500.00

BATHROOM

EXTERIOR

DOORS

25 Hand

PLANNING COSTS

36 Insulation

DRIVEWAY & RETAINING WALLS $99,275.00 Aggregate paths - includes excavation & hauling 140 CY $35.00 $4,900.00

29 Timber

DEMOLITION & EARTH MOVING $11,400.00 Excavation for Basement, slabs, steps, etc. 150 CY $50.00 $7,500.00

39 Casement

PRE-CONSTRUCTION

PLUMBING $11,170.00 49 Water closet & rough-in 2 EA $1,800.00 $3,600.00 50 Kitchen sink & rough-in 2 EA $1,200.00 $2,400.00 51 Hose Bib 2 EA $400.00 $800.00 52 Domestic water service - pipes & insulation 30 LF $50.00 $1,500.00 53 Domestic water service - fittings 9 LF $70.00 $630.00 54 Backflow preventer 1 EA $2,000.00 $2,000.00 55 Heat trace 30 LF $8.00 $240.00 HVAC $21,750.00 56 Radiant floor heating 1450 SF $15.00 $21,750.00 ELECTRICAL $50,520.00 57 Temporary Light & Power 1 EA $5,000.00 $5,000.00 58 Connection to city electrical (excavation, hauling, underground wiring & tubing) 1 ALLOW $15,000.00 $15,000.00 59 Panelboards & Disconnect 1 EA $4,500.00 $4,500.00 60 Copper Wiring 24 CLF $55.00 $1,320.00 61 EMT Tubing 600 CLF $5.00 $3,000.00 62 Outlet boxes 4 EA $600.00 $2,400.00 63 Duplex 20 EA $40.00 $800.00 64 Light controls 1 EA $1,000.00 $1,000.00 65 Light fixtures 30 EA $400.00 $12,000.00 66 Wall Pack 8 EA $500.00 $4,000.00 67 Ceiling-mounted fan/light 1 EA $1,500.00 $1,500.00 LIFE SAFETY $15,080.06 68 Exit Light LED 1 EA $450.00 $450.00 69 Fire Extinguishers 3 EA $295.00 $885.00 70 Fire Alarm Cable 3 CLF $275.00 $825.00 71 EMT Tubing 300 LF $4.50 $1,350.00 72 Control Panel 1 EA $3,000.00 $3,000.00 73 Strobe & Horn 2 EA $165.00 $330.00 74 System Programming 1 EA $1,000.00 $1,000.00 75 Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Detector 4 EA $1,000.00 $4,000.00 76 Pull Station 1 EA $140.00 $140.00 77 Tamper & Flow Connect 1 EA $160.00 $160.00 78 Overhead Sprinklers 1470.03 EA $2.00 $2,940.06 GROUNDING & LIGHTNING PROTECTION $5,942.00 79 Grounding rod, copper clad 6 EA $135.00 $810.00 80 Ground wire, copper 2 CLF $625.00 $1,250.00 81 Exothermic weld 6 CLF $70.00 $420.00 82 Trenching 200 CLF $6.00 $1,200.00 83 Lightning protection, air terminal and base 6 EA $55.00 $330.00 84 Lightning protection, copper cable 160 LF $6.75 $1,080.00 85 Lightning clips 6 EA $10.00 $60.00 86 Lightning rod base plate 6 EA $132.00 $792.00 AUDIO/VISUAL INFRASTRUCTURE $5,025.00 87 EMT Tubing 300 LF $4.50 $1,350.00 88 Speaker 2 EA $1,000.00 $2,000.00 89 Projector 1 EA $1,000.00 $1,000.00 90 Equipment Connections 3 EA $135.00 $405.00 91 Cabling 3 CLF $90.00 $270.00 LANDSCAPING $15,750.00 92 Slope Stabilization Planting 3000 SF $5.00 $15,000.00 93 Trees - Bare Root (1-1.5" caliper) 10 EA $75.00 $750.00 Planting can be done by volunteers. SUBTOTALHARD COSTS $648,590.56 SOFT COSTS & CONTINGENCIES ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL 94 Bond Mobilization and Layout 1 12.00% $77,830.87 $77,830.87 95 Contingency 1 12.00% $77,830.87 $77,830.87 96 Professional Fees - Design and Engineering 1 15.00% $97,288.58 $97,288.58 SUBTOTALSOFT COSTS $252,950.32 TOTALGRAND $901,540.88 111

1 Solar

PHASE THREE: ECO-BARN (CONT’D)

RAINWATER

(NOT INCLUDED IN FEE ON PREVIOUS PAGE) ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM

consideration,

ADD-ALTERNATES sustainable systems listed below have been included in master plan for but not calculated within the base budget on the previous pages.112

18 Above

5 Space

the

4 Transformer

3 Distribution

GREEN

ADD-ALTERNATES QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL REMARKS ROOF $115,030.00 Panels 829 SF $70.00 $58,030.00 Battery Pack 1 EA $12,000.00 $12,000.00 Panel 480V 1 EA $7,500.00 $7,500.00 & Rough-in 1 EA $20,000.00 $20,000.00 & Build-out of electrical closet 50 SF $350.00 $17,500.00 ROOF $117,900.00 Deduct Standing Seam Steel Roof 1650 SF $(20.00) $(33,000.00) Sedum Mat 1650 SF $24.00 $39,600.00 Green Roof Soil 1650 SF w/ above Needled Miner Wool 1650 SF w/ above Drain Plate 1650 SF w/ above Honeycomb geo grid 1650 SF $5.00 $8,250.00 Metal Edging 160 LF $15.00 $2,400.00 Insulation 1650 SF $7.50 $12,375.00 Vapor Barrier 1650 SF $8.50 $14,025.00 Waterproofing Membrane 1650 SF $20.00 $33,000.00 Reinforcement 1650 SF $25.00 $41,250.00 RE-USE SYSTEM $61,750.00 Septic System 1 ALLOW $(20,000.00) $(20,000.00) Ground Storage Tank 1 EA $10,000.00 $10,000.00 Pump 1 EA $10,000.00 $10,000.00 Piping 1475 SF $15.00 $22,125.00 Treatment System 1475 SF $10.00 $14,750.00 Controls 1475 SF $5.00 $7,375.00 & Build-out of treatment closet 50 SF $350.00 $17,500.00

23 Space

17 Eliminate

SOLAR

21 Chemical

Add-alternates for

16 Structural

Ash

5 Substructure

PHASE FOUR: OVERLOOK LOOP PHASE SUMMARY

An allowance for structural engineering and landscape architecture are included to develop construction documents. A civil engineer or architect may also be necessary for permitting, especially if stamped documents are necessary.

BASE COSTS NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL REMARKS PREPARATION $17,000.00 Site access & erosion control 1 ALLOW $5,000.00 $5,000.00 Utilities 1 ALLOW $5,000.00 $5,000.00 Dewatering 1 ALLOW $2,000.00 $2,000.00 Site Clearing for foundations & bases 1 ALLOW $5,000.00 $5,000.00 Was done in phase 2; this is specific to necessary tree clearing or understory LOOP $489,924.00 Foundations 2195 SF $20.00 $43,900.00 Helical Piles - max 28' 2195 SF $75.00 $164,625.00 Metal Deck Framing 2195 SF $7.00 $15,365.00 Modified Decking 2195 SF $20.00 $43,900.00 25-30-year lifespan vs. 10-15 year lifespan for synthetic Trex decking Framed Railings 588 LF $300.00 $176,400.00 2352 SF $17.00 $39,984.00 Lean Rail with HDPE Signage 15 LF $350.00 $5,250.00 ALLOW $500.00 $500.00 $924.00 462 SF $2.00 $924.00

2 Temporary

The Overlook Loop is an ADA-accessible experience at the top of the ridge, made of decking and supported by piers. The estimate includes the elements to construct the overlook, as well as the striping of two ADA-accessible parking spots along the existing street.

8 Thermally

9 Steel

10 X-Tend Mesh Panels

HARDSCAPING

13 ADA Parking - Striping on existing asphalt

LANDSCAPING 14 Regeneration zones Included in Phase 2 estimate COSTS-SUBTOTALHARD $507,848.00 SOFT COSTS & CONTINGENCIES ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL 15 Bond Mobilization and Layout 1 12.00% $60,941.76 $60,941.76 16 Contingency 1 12.00% $60,941.76 $60,941.76 17 Professional Fees - Design and Engineering 1 15.00% $76,177.20 $76,177.20 SUBTOTALSOFT COSTS $121,883.52 TOTALGRAND $629,731.52 113

PRE-CONSTRUCTION PLANNING COSTS

SITE

12 Signage for Parking, ADA & Safety Warnings 1

11 Wood

ITEM

OVERLOOK

9 Perennial Planting at Slides 1000 SF $6.00 $6,000.00 COSTS-SUBTOTALHARD $81,500.00

12 Professional

4 Recycled concrete access path - aggregate base, excavation & hauling 100 CY $45.00 $4,500.00 PLAY $71,500.00

SITE PREPARATION $4,000.00

1 Fine site grading 8000 SF $0.50 $4,000.00 SITE ELEMENTS $23,880.00

SOFT COSTS

3 Gabion basket retaining Walls - Wood Seating 228 SF $50.00 $11,400.00

LANDSCAPING $6,000.00

ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL 10 Bond Mobilization and Layout 1 12.00% $9,780.00 $9,780.00 1 12.00% $9,780.00 $9,780.00 Fees - Design and Engineering 1 15.00% $12,225.00 $12,225.00SOFT COSTS $31,785.00 TOTALGRAND $113,285.00 GROVE Learning Grove creates a space at the base of the quarry for environmental education. The estimate includes gabion basket walls and seating, as well as adjacent slides and boulder stairs that are embedded within the slope of the quarry. PLANNING COSTS Professional services should include disciplines of Civil Engineering and Landscape Architecture. Geotechnical support may also be necessary; this will be dependent upon the findings of the geotechnical surveying that will take place in/prior to Phase 1. 114

BASE COSTS ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL REMARKS

& CONTINGENCIES

2 Gabion basket retaining Walls 228 SF $35.00 $7,980.00

PHASE FIVE: LEARNING

PRE-CONSTRUCTION

11 Contingency

PHASE SUMMARY The

5 Metal Slide - 15' Long 15 LF $1,275.00 $19,125.00 Included in Phase 1 Metal Slide - 30' Long 30 LF $1,275.00 $38,250.00 Boulder Stairs 30 TONS $255.00 $7,650.00 Boulder Stairs & Slide - Excavation & Hauling 185 CY $35.00 $6,475.00

SUBTOTAL

furnishings

2 Sculptural Entry

SUBTOTALSOFT

PHASE SIX: WILLOW GROVE, SIGNAGE + SITE AMENITIES

SIGNAGE

TOTALGRAND

3 Educational

REMARKS SITE PREPARATION

115

BASE COSTS ITEM NO. ESTIMATE

PHASE Willow Grove is an area adjacent to the proposed Learning Grove and Natural Play area that introduces planting that can be used for outdoor education or crafts. Trailhead signage is also included in this phase of work, intended for along the existing pathways and parking area.

5 Movable Furnishings -

COSTS-SUBTOTALHARD

TOTAL 9 Bond Mobilization and Layout 1

10 Contingency 1

PRE-CONSTRUCTION COSTS services should include Landscape Architecture if any guidance on grading, planting, or is required. ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL $3,250.00 Fine grading 6500 SF $0.50 $3,250.00 $23,400.00 Portal Trailhead - Corten Steel Included in Phase 1 Signage 7 EA $1,200.00 $8,400.00 Smaller Signage 100 EA $150.00 $15,000.00 $3,000.00 Chairs 12 EA $250.00 $3,000.00 $4,215.00 Trees - Bare Root (1-1.5" caliper) 22 EA $75.00 $1,650.00 Planting can be done by volunteers. Seed Mix - Understory 4 LB $235.00 $940.00 Spread rate: 10 lb/acre. Seed spreading can be done by volunteers Mulch for seed bulking 6500 SF $0.25 $1,625.00 1 acre / Seed spreading to be done by volunteers $33,865.00 QTY UNIT UNIT COST 12.00% $4,063.80 $4,063.80 12.00% $4,063.80 $4,063.80 $5,079.75 $5,079.75 COSTS $13,207.35 $47,072.35

LANDSCAPING

11 Professional Fees - Design and Engineering 1 15.00%

FURNISHINGS

Professional

PLANNING

SUMMARY The

SOFT COSTS & CONTINGENCIES ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM

6 Understory

ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL 22 Bond Mobilization and Layout 1 12.00% $10,638.00 $10,638.00 23 Contingency 1 12.00% $10,638.00 $10,638.00

24 Professional Fees - Design and Engineering 1 15.00% $13,297.50 $13,297.50 SUBTOTALSOFT COSTS $34,573.50 TOTALGRAND $123,223.50

PLANNING COSTS

PHASE SUMMARY

PRE-CONSTRUCTION

Professional services should include disciplines of Landscape Architecture if any guidance on grading, planting, or furnishings is required. 116

SOFT COSTS & CONTINGENCIES

The Food Forest is a garden outside of the Eco-Barn that can be used for education or community gardening. Its maintenance depends upon the labor of a part-time gardener, and should be implemented only if/when SWT can commit to supporting such a position.

LANDSCAPING $19,920.00 Understory Trees - Bare Root (1-1.5" caliper) 10 EA $75.00 $750.00 Planting can be done by volunteers. Seed Mix - Grand Diversity Mix (Prairie Moon Nursery) 5 LB $235.00 $1,175.00 Spread rate: 10 lb/acre. Seed spreading can be done by volunteers Mulch for seed bulking 20000 SF $0.25 $5,000.00 1 acre / Seed spreading to be done by volunteers Woody Shrubs - 10 Gallon Container 16 EA $25.00 $400.00 Perennials - 3 Gallon Container 300 EA $20.00 $6,000.00 Sow low-mow eco-grass 110 EA $4.50 $495.00 Spread Rate: 220 lb/acre. Seed spreading can be done by volunteers Mulch for eco-grass seed bulking 20000 SF $0.25 $5,000.00 Seed spreading to be done by volunteers Garden Fencing (deer-proof) 220 LF $5.00 $1,100.00 COSTS-SUBTOTALHARD $88,650.00

PHASE SEVEN: FOOD FOREST + CRAFT GARDENS

The estimate includes all walls, pathways, planting, and furnishings in this area.

BASE COSTS ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL REMARKS SITE PREPARATION $4,500.00 1 Fine site grading 9000 SF $0.50 $4,500.00 SITE ELEMENTS $37,630.00 2 Gabion basket retaining Walls 228 SF $35.00 $7,980.00 3 Gabion basket retaining Walls - wood seating 228 SF $50.00 $11,400.00 4 Gabion basket retaining Walls - excavation & hauling 100 CY $40.00 $4,000.00 5 Recycled concrete access path - aggregate base, excavation & hauling 30 CY $45.00 $1,350.00 6 Compost Bays - 20x15' Slab 300 SF $8.00 $2,400.00 7 Compost Bays - CMU Enclosure 300 SF $25.00 $7,500.00 8 Compost Bays - Gate 1 EA $3,000.00 $3,000.00 FURNISHINGS $26,600.00 9 Movable Furnishings - Harvest Tables 3 EA $2,000.00 $6,000.00 10 Movable Furnishings - Chairs 36 EA $250.00 $9,000.00 11 Trash, Recycling, Rain Barrel & Composting Supplies 6 EA $1,500.00 $9,000.00 12 Misc. Gardening Supplies for Storage 1 EA $2,000.00 $2,000.00 13 Insect Hotels 6 EA $100.00 $600.00

The Natural Play area is intended as an additional amenity within the forest that supports families with children. The estimate includes three play elements, as well as costs for adjacent gabion walls and seating. Mulch surfacing and two large trees within the play area are included in the estimate. No drainage is anticipated.

7 Play Structure - Log Piles 8.2 1 EA $25,200.00 $25,200.00

HARDSCAPING $18,150.00 material, and hauling 185 CY $30.00 $5,550.00 mulch - material, excavation, and hauling 280 CY $45.00 $12,600.00 $2,940.00 , CAL 2 EA $1,000.00 $2,000.00 Planting can be done by LB $235.00 $940.00 Spread rate: 10 lb/acre. be done by $195,430.00

10 Aggregate base for

LANDSCAPING

11 Understory Trees -B&B

1 Fine site grading 8500 SF $0.50 $4,250.00 ELEMENTS $17,000.00

SITE

volunteers. 12 Seed Mix - Understory 4

Seed spreading can

2 Gabion basket retaining Walls 200 SF $35.00 $7,000.00

SOFT COSTS & CONTINGENCIES ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL 13 Bond Mobilization and Layout 1 12.00% $23,451.60 $23,451.60 14 Contingency 1 12.00% $23,451.60 $23,451.60 15 Professional Fees - Design and Engineering 1 15.00% $29,314.50 $29,314.50 SUBTOTALSOFT COSTS $76,217.70 TOTALGRAND $271,647.70 117

PHASE EIGHT: NATURAL PLAY PHASE SUMMARY

6 Play Structure - Stepper Cluster M4 1 EA $13,200.00 $13,200.00

4 Stump seating Place remnants reclaimed from Phase 2 tree clearing PLAY $153,090.00

volunteers COSTS-SUBTOTALHARD

BASE COSTS

SITE PREPARATION $4,250.00

5 Play Structure - Main 1 EA $75,000.00 $75,000.00

PRE-CONSTRUCTION PLANNING COSTS Professional services should include disciplines of Landscape Architecture and Civil Engineering if any guidance on grading, planting, or furnishings is required.

excavation,

8 Installation 1 EA $39,690.00 $39,690.00

3 Gabion basket retaining Walls - Wood Seating 200 SF $50.00 $10,000.00

ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL REMARKS

9 Mulch -

BASE COSTS ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL REMARKS SITE PREPARATION $34,250.00 1 Site access & erosion control 1 ALLOW $15,000.00 $15,000.00 2 Dewatering 1 ALLOW $4,250.00 $4,250.00 3 Temporary Utilities 1 ALLOW $10,000.00 $10,000.00 4 Site Clearing for foundations & bases 1 ALLOW $5,000.00 $5,000.00 Was done in phase 2; this is specific to necessary tree clearing or understory CANOPY WALK $259,600.00 5 Substructure Foundations 1450 SF $12.00 $17,400.00 6 Helical Piles - max 15' 1450 SF $37.00 $53,650.00 7 Metal Deck Framing 1450 SF $7.00 $10,150.00 8 Thermally Modified Ash Decking 1450 SF $20.00 $29,000.00 25-30-year lifespan vs. 10-15 year lifespan for synthetic Trex decking 9 Steel Framed Railings 295 LF $300.00 $88,500.00 10 X-Tend Mesh Panels 1450 SF $17.00 $24,650.00 11 Overhead Trellis Beams 1450 SF $25.00 $36,250.00 12 Signage for Environmental Education and Safety Warnings ALLOW $500.00 $LANDSCAPING $470.00 13 Seed Mix - Understory 2 LB $235.00 $470.00 Spread rate: 10 lb/acre. Seed spreading can be done by volunteers COSTS-SUBTOTALHARD $294,320.00 SOFT COSTS & CONTINGENCIES

PHASE NINE: CANOPY WALK

ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL Bond Mobilization and Layout 1 12.00% $35,318.40 $35,318.40 Contingency 1 12.00% $35,318.40 $35,318.40 Professional Fees - Design and Engineering 1 15.00% $44,148.00 $44,148.00 SUBTOTALSOFT COSTS $114,784.80 TOTALGRAND $409,104.80

PHASE SUMMARY The Canopy Walk is an ADA-accessible experience at the top of the ridge, made of decking and supported by piers. The estimate includes the elements to construct the elevated walk.

PRE-CONSTRUCTION PLANNING COSTS Professional services should include disciplines of Structural Engineering and Landscape Architecture to develop construction documents. A Civil Engineer or Architect may also be necessary for permitting, especially if stamped documents are necessary. Given the location at the top of the quarry ridge, a geotechnical engineer may be necessary. 118

PRE-CONSTRUCTION

PLANNING COSTS

Structural engineering is anticipated for the chimney swift towers/brick kiln. COSTS

24 Excavation

29 Professional Fees

28 Contingency 1

PHASE SUMMARY

ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL REMARKS PREPARATION $27,760.00 Site access & erosion control in meadow 1 ALLOW $4,000.00 $4,000.00 Fine site grading 8500 SF $0.50 $4,250.00 Dewatering 1 ALLOW $4,250.00 $4,250.00 Utilities 1 ALLOW $15,000.00 $15,000.00 Site Clearing for foundations & bases 2000 SF $0.13 $260.00

LANDSCAPING

BRICK KILN - CHIMNEY SWIFT TOWERS 107,615.00 Brick - Sever Weathering 1750 EA $40.00 $70,000.00 Metal Flashing 157 SF $60.00 $9,420.00 Foam Insulation 1750 SF $4.00 $7,000.00 Treated Plywood 1750 SF $5.00 $8,750.00 Treated Plywood at top 1 EA $125.00 $125.00 Ventilation 3 EA $200.00 $600.00 Footings - Concrete 16 CY $150.00 $2,400.00 Footings - Reinforcement 2000 LB $1.90 $3,800.00 Footings - Formwork 440 SF $10.00 $4,400.00 Excavation & Hauling 32 CY $35.00 $1,120.00

COSTS-SUBTOTALHARD

TOTALGRAND

119

BASE

Design and Engineering

SOFT COSTS & CONTINGENCIES ITEM NO. ESTIMATE ITEM QTY

SUBTOTAL

25 Sow

SITE

PHASE ART - BRICK INSTALLATION WITH BIRD HABITAT TOWERS

4 Temporary

TEN: ECOLOGICAL

26 Mulch

27 Bond Mobilization and Layout 1

BRICK KILN - ARCHES $71,790.00 Brick - Sever Weathering 1475 EA $42.50 $62,687.50 Footings - Concrete 7 CY $150.00 $1,050.00 Footings - Reinforcement 875 LB $1.90 $1,662.50 Footings - Formwork 590 SF $10.00 $5,900.00 & Hauling 14 CY $35.00 $490.00 $41.75 low-mow eco-grass 2 EA $5.25 $10.50 Spread Rate: 300 lb/acre. Seed spreading can be done by volunteers for eco-grass seed bulking 125 SF $0.25 $31.25 $207,206.75 UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL 12.00% $24,864.81 $24,864.81 12.00% $24,864.81 $24,864.81 - 1 15.00% $29,314.50 $29,314.50SOFT COSTS $80,810.63 $288,017.38

An ecological art installation is included as an additional creative amenity that was highly rated by the public in the engagement process, but also comes at a large expense. Cost is included for creating three chimney swift towers and a brick arch ring that mimic the brick kilns and chimney towers that once stood on site.

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