Examining Sustainable Development Options:A Community Engaged Process

Examining Sustainable Development Options in Jersey Shore: A Community Engaged Process

A Serivce-Learning Project in Larch 424. (Community-based design/Planning and Community Engagement) Department of Landscape Architecture The College of Arts and Architecture The Pennsylvania State University

Fall 2012

Students: Kirsten Hardy Thomas Kyd Preston Linck Dina Mahmoud Faculty Supervisor: Mallika Bose, PhD.

We would like to acknowledge the support of: • Tom Grbenick, Director Community Resource Center SEDA Council of Governments • Alice L. Trowbridge, R.L.A. Susquehanna Greenway West Branch Regional Lead • Trish Carothers, Executive Director Susquehanna Greenway Partnership • Dennis Buttorff, Mayor, Borough of Jersey Shore • Jersey Shore Revitalization Team Community members who participated in Visioning Events on Oct. 25th and Dec. 6th

Index Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 2-3 Objectives .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 3 Significance ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 3 Exploring Jersey Shore/Getting to Know the Community .................................................................................................................................. 4-12

Historic and location overview ............................................................................................................................................................................ 5 Demographics .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 6-11

Current economics of Jersey Shore ................................................................................................................................................................. 12 Sustainable Development Options: River Town Project .................................................................................................................................. 14-18

River town project .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 15

Method of how we were involved ...................................................................................................................................................................... 16

Community visioning/river town application .................................................................................................................................................... 17

Concluding thoughts .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 18 ................................................................................................................. 20-63 Revitalizing Jersey Shore Through Green Infrastructure Projects

Future community engagement methods .................................................................................................................................................... 21-26

Green infrastructure opportunities ............................................................................................................................................................... 27-31

-Explanation of the program ........................................................................................................................................................................... 27

-Analysis .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 28-31

Preliminary demonstration projects.............................................................................................................................................................. 32-61 -McClintock Parking Lot ........................................................................................................................................................................... 33-39

-Thompson Street ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 40-43

-Seminary Street ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 44-61

Project presentation notes/conclusions ...................................................................................................................................................... 62-63 References ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 64-65

1

Introduction Objectives Significance

2

The work presented in this report is produced by students as part of a service-learning project undertaken in Larch 424 (Community-based design/Planning and Community Engagement). This work is only a small segment of a larger ongoing community-based planning effort to improve and revitalize the community of Jersey Shore. The analysis and design options presented here are preliminary concepts that need to be refined by professionals with community input.

Objective Jersey Shore, like many towns in rural America, has been experiencing economic and population decline as more human and material resources have been moving to urban areas. However, Jersey Shore has a major resource that until recently has been partially ignored: the Susquehanna River. By embracing the river and all it has to offer, Jersey Shore can rebuild its economy and rebuild the town. Partnering with the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership (SGP) has been the first of many steps taken by Jersey Shore to connect with the river and bring economic development back to the town. The mountains to the north and the river to the east draw in locals and tourists to the area for the recreation provided by these abundant natural resources. Jersey Shore is perfectly situated to become a destination for recreational travelers, but it must embrace these resources and take appropriate steps to encourage economic development that will support tourism and promote sustainable growth.

Significance Jersey Shore has much potential for growth and development. Many of the buildings in the downtown district have historical significance and beautiful architecture, but many are abandoned or in poor conditions. There are several pocket parks that are well taken care of by local residents, but none that overlook the beautiful river. There are many local clubs and organizations that are for the people to use and enjoy, but many are unaware of them1. The river is a huge asset that can greatly contribute to economic growth and attract tourists year-round, but currently there is no river access and no businesses that cater to river recreation. Additionally, the current development patterns in Jersey Shore increase the risk of flooding from the Susquehanna River, which has caused devastating damage to the downtown district in the past.

By utilizing green infrastructure2 as advocated by the SGP, Jersey Shore can reduce the risk of flooding. The residents of Jersey Shore have expressed a strong desire to return their town to its picturesque past of charming houses, a lively downtown, thriving economy and local sense of place. Additionally, with the support of local government and regional organizations, Jersey Shore can be transformed into the beautiful, friendly, energetic town that is aspires to be.

1

Many of the community members who participated in the Community Visioning Event were unaware of the local groups and organizations available to them.

Green infrastructure, as defined by the EPA (http://water.epa.gov/), is an approach to managing storm water that utilizes vegetation and soil to manage the water where it falls as opposed to traditional methods of single-purpose gray storm water infrastructure, which uses pipes to dispose of rainwater.

2

3

Getting to Know the Community Historic and Location Overview Demographics Economic Status of Jersey Shore

4

Historic and Location Overview

3

The Borough of Jersey Shore is located in Lycoming county, Pennsylvania, found along the west branch of the Susquehanna River. Situated downstream from the Pine Creek, the town’s location and identity are enriched through its river heritage. The river holds historic significance as it was once an ideal location for traders and businessmen. Additionally, the town was part of the railroad industry, building rail cars in nearby shops. Trolley lines were formed to connect the local workers to the rail shops. This later pushed forth the formation of a historic steel company that also produced work for the railroads.

Currently, Jersey Shore’s main attraction is the Pine Creek Rail Trail, which terminates its 65 mile long stretch at Jersey Shore. The trail, found in the Appalachian mountains, offers opportunities for ideal biking and hiking along picturesque scenery. Given its geographical location along the river, the town is susceptible to flooding and many homes and businesses are, thus, directly effected by the flood damage. Efforts are presently underway (by the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership) to improve the physical and economic conditions of the town. Introducing green infrastructure and providing access to the river are part of the SGP plan to revitalize Jersey Shore and to enhance its river town attributes.

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West Branch Susquehanna River

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Allegheny Street Borough of Jersey Shore

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State Forest

3

Sources: Jerseyshoreboro.org & Susquehannagreenway.org (SGP) 5

Demographics: General Population Characteristics Jersey Shore 4,361 100.0 47.1 52.9

General Population Total Population Male Female Median Age (Male& Female)

35.1

Porter Twp. 1,601 100.0 49.0 51.0 45.8

Piatt Twp. Nippenose 1,180 709 100.0 100.0 50.5 50.6 49.5 49.4 40.7

42.3

Lycoming County PA 116,747 12,742,886 100.0 100.0 49.0 48.7 51.0 51.3 42

40.3

16 years and over 18 years and over 21 years and over 62 years and over 65 years and over

76.7 73.7 70.0 16.7 14.3

40.3 39.2 37.2 10.2 8.2

39.3 36.1 33.8 7.5 6.5

81.5 78.6 74.3 22.0 16.4

82.1 79.1 73.7 19.7 16.3

81.1 78.1 73.4 18.9 15.5

Race: White Alone Race: Other

97.5 2.5

98.4

96.9

99.3

92.9

82.6

Jersey Shore Population Sex Female

Male

Jersey Shore Population Race Other

White

3%

47% 53%

97%

Notes The above demographics most notably show the median age of Jersey Shore residents being relatively low in comparison to its surrounding municipalities and the state of Pennsylvania.

From the perspective of community development, it will be important to have the younger and mid-aged demographic represented for engagement exercises.

Looking toward the future, planning to attract younger populations for living and visiting can be productive.

6

Demographics: Housing Characteristics Jersey Shore 1,710 100.0 64.7 36.8 23.3

Households (Total Number) Total Households Family Households Households with Children under 18 Households with over 65 Housing Occupancy (Total Number) Total Housing Units Occupied Housing Units Vacant Housing Units Owner Occupied Renter-Occupied

1,819

Vacant

707 100.0 94.0 6.0 53.8 46.2

Title Jersey ShoreChart Housing Occupancy

Porter Twp. 673 100.0 68.5 28.5 33.1

Piatt Twp. Nippenose 426 283 100.0 100.0 73.7 73.9 37.3 29.0 27.2 29.7 495

100.0 95.2 4.8 75.9 24.1

300 100.0 86.1 13.9 77.9 22.1

100.0 94.3 5.7 82.3 17.7

Renter Occupied

Owner Occupied

6%

46% 1 2 94%

52,268

Jersey ShoreChart HomeTitle Ownership

Occupied

Lycoming County 46,506 100.0 61.8 25.4 29.4

54%

100.0 89.0 11.0 68.5 31.5

PA 4,937,333 100.0 64.7 29.4 28.1 5,579,394 100.0 88.5 11.5 69.5 30.5

Notes Jersey Shore has a higher percentage of renter occupied housing than the surrounding municipalities, county and state.

Renter properties can be less maintained, and being able to persuade 1 absentee or unavailable landlords to sell their properties could benefit2the town and community socially and aesthetically.

The Borough should find out the reasons for the higher proportion of renter occupied housing.

7

Demographics: Employment Characteristics Jersey Shore 3,222 69.5 63.5 8.7 30.5

Employment Status Civilian Labor Force Employed Unemployed Not in Labor Force Commuting to Work (Workers 16 years or older) Worker 16+ Car, Truck, or Van Public Transportation Walked Other Means Worked at Home

2,007

Mean Travel Time to Work (Minutes)

Unemployment Percentages Pennsylvania

14.8

53,251 100.0 91.6 1.3 3.6 0.8 2.6

5,728,043 100.0 85.7 5.3 3.9 1.3 3.8

22.0

24.1

23.8

20.4

21.6

25.9

8.7

Porter Twp.

Jersey Shore

8.7

Jersey Shore

.0

10.0

Notes

15.0

0.0

The employment statistics of Jersey Shore resembles that of the county and state.

25.9 21.6 20.4

Piatt Twp.

Porter Twp.

0.05

8

100.0 93.5 0.0 1.7 2.9 1.8

320 100.0 100.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Nippenose Twp.

Piatt Twp.

61.6 56.3 8.7 38.4

PA 10,323,889 62.6 56.7 9.4 37.4

549 100.0 93.6 0.0 3.5 1.6 1.3

Lycoming County

6.9

Lycoming County

871 100.0 92.3 1.1 2.5 0.2 3.8

Pennsylvania

8.7

Nippenose Twp.

Piatt Twp. Nippenose 939 70.0 64.5 59.6 60.0 14.8 6.9 30.0 35.5

Average Work Commute Time

9.4

Lycoming County

Porter Twp. 1,572 62.6 57.1 8.7 37.4

23.8 24.1 22.0 5.0

10.0

15.0

20.0

25.0

30.0

Demographics: Income Characteristics Jersey Shore 1,645 100.0 6.7 12.7 14.8 7.1 25.1 22.3 2.9 6.9 0.0 1.5

Income & BeneďŹ ts Total Households Less than 10,000 10,000 to 14,999 15,000 to 24,999 25,000 to 34,999 35,000 to 49,999 50,000 to 74,999 75,000 to 99,999 100,000 to 149,999 150,000 to 199,999 200,000 or more Median Household Income

43,694

Median Household Incomes 50,228

Lycoming County 5

42,391

Nippenose Twp. 4

49,583

Piatt Twp. 3

51,563

Porter Twp. 2

48,533

Jersey Shore 1

43,694 10,000

20,000

30,000 Series1

40,000

Piatt Twp. Nippenose 421 273 100.0 100.0 2.4 3.3 4.0 1.5 8.3 13.2 9.3 11.0 23.0 21.6 24.7 31.1 15.7 9.2 10.2 7.7 0.0 0.0 2.4 1.5

48,533

51,563

49,583

Percentage of Household Income

Pennsylvania 6

0

Porter Twp. 779 100.0 7.4 5.6 10.4 10.1 18.1 27.9 10.9 6.0 1.9 1.5

50,000

60,000

150,000 orormore 150,000 more 100,000 to to149,999 100,000 149,999 75,000 toto99,999 75,000 99,999 50,000 toto74,999 50,000 74,999 35,000 toto49,999 35,000 49,999 25,000 toto34,999 25,000 34,999 15,000 toto24,999 15,000 24,999 10,000 toto14,999 10,000 14,999 LessLess than 10,000 than 10,000

Lycoming County 46,506 100.0 7.0 6.2 13.2 13.7 17.8 19.9 11.2 7.8 1.7 1.5 42,391

PA 4,937,333 100.0 7.4 6.0 11.6 10.6 14.1 18.8 11.9 11.7 4.0 3.7 50,228

Notes Even though the median income of Jersey Shore is lower than the state and surrounding municipalities; it approximates that of Lycoming County.

1.5 6.9 2.9 22.3 25.1 7.1 14.8 12.7 6.7 0.0

5.0

10.0

15.0

20.0

25.0

30.0

Series1

9

Demographics: Education & Percentage of People in Poverty Educational Attainment Population 25+ No High School Diploma or Equivalent High School Diploma or Equivalent Some College, No Degree Associate's Degree Bachelor's Degree Graduate or Professional Degree

Jersey Shore 2,577 100.0 17.2 32.2 25.4 10.6 11.1 3.5

Porter Twp. 1,329 100.0 18.8 39.1 15.1 10.4 9.3 7.2

21.6 18.2

6.9 3.6

Poverty (Based on income in past 12 months) All People All Families

Percentage of Educational Attainment High SchoolGraduate Diploma or Equivalent or Professional Degree

3.5

3.5

Graduate or Professional Degree 11.1 10.6 Degree Bachelor's 11.1 Bachelor's Degree 10.6 Associate’s Degree 25.4 Associate's Degree Some College, No Degree 10.6 Associate's Degree Degree Some College, No Degree 32.2 High SchoolBachelor’s Diploma orSome Equivalent 25.4 College, No Degree High School Diploma or Equivalent Graduate Professional Degree 17.2 No Highor School Diploma or Equivalent 32.2 High School Diploma or Equivalent 17.2 No High School Diploma or Equivalent 17.235.0 0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 30.0 No High School Diploma or Equivalent

Some College, No Degree Associate's Degree

Series1

10

6.2 5.5

6 Pennsylvania

13.8

Lycoming County 5

14.0

Nippenose Twp. 4

32.2Jersey

0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 30.0 35.0 0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 30.0 35.0 Series1 Series1

6.9

Shore 1

21.6 0.0

5.0

10.0

15.0 All People

14.0 9.6

13.8 9.6

Notes

Jersey Shore has a relatively high percentage of people living in poverty.

6.2

Porter Twp. 2

25.4

PA 8,714,235 100.0 11.3 37.5 16.6 7.6 16.6 10.4

Comparatively, Jersey Shore has the highest percentage of people who go off to college.

13.0

Piatt Twp. 3

Lycoming County 80,444 100.0 13.5 43.2 14.6 9.9 12.1 6.6

13.0 7.6

Percentage of All People in Poverty

3.5

No High School Diploma 11.1Degree Bachelor's Degree Graduate or Professional

Piatt Twp. Nippenose 781 502 100.0 100.0 15.5 20.1 43.4 53.8 17.2 5.0 12.7 9.2 6.1 7.6 5.1 4.4

20.0

25.0

*Poverty is defined by the U.S. census bureau as an individually supported person making less than $11,485 annually.

Demographics: Industry Characteristics Jersey Shore 100.0 0.0 6.3 21.9 0.7 14.8 7.0 0.6 4.8 8.0 22.6 6.3 4.8 2.1

Industry Agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting, mining Construction Manufacturing Wholesale Trade Retail Trade Transportation and warehousing Information Fincance, Insurance, real estate Scientific, Management, Adminstrative, Waste Management Educational services, health care, social assistance Arts, entertainment, recreation, accomodation, food service Public administration Other services

Porter Twp. 100.0 2.7 9.1 21.3 1.2 14.8 6.9 0.3 3.6 8.6 19.5 4.3 6.3 1.3

Piatt Twp. Nippenose 100.0 100.0 0.7 3.0 8.6 12.2 35.7 19.9 0.5 2.4 7.9 8.9 6.4 7.1 0.0 0.9 4.6 0.0 7.0 6.0 13.4 25.9 3.4 5.7 6.1 5.4 5.7 2.7

Percentage of workers engaged in specific industries in Jersey Shore Other 2.1 Other Services services Public Administration 4.8 3.5 Graduate or Professional Degree entertainment, recreation, etc.

6.3 3.5 Arts, entertainment, recreation,…

Graduate or Arts, Professional Degree Educational services, health care, social assistance 11.1 Bachelor's Degree 11.1 Bachelor's Degree waste management Scientific, management, administrative, 8.0 Scientific, Management,…

10.6 Associate's Degree 4.8 Finance, real estate Associate's Degree insurance, 10.6 25.4 Information 0.6 Some College, No Degree Information Some College, No Degree Transportation and warehousing 25.4 7.0 32.2 High School Diploma or Equivalent Retail 32.2 Retail Trade Trade High School Diploma or Equivalent 17.2 Wholesale Trade 0.7 No High School Diploma or Equivalent 17.2 No High School Diploma or Equivalent Manufacturing Manufacturing 0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 30.0 35.0 Construction 6.3 0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 30.0 35.0 Agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting, mining Series1 Agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting,… 0.0

Lycoming County 100.0 2.5 6.3 17.1 3.0 13.5 5.5 1.2 4.4 6.9 23.7 6.9 4.6 4.6

PA 100.0 1.4 5.7 12.5 2.8 11.7 5.1 1.8 6.4 9.7 25.8 8.2 4.7 4.3

Notes Public services (education, health, social assistance), manufacturing and retail sector account for over 50% of employment in Jersey Shore.

22.6

14.8 21.9

Series1

0.0

5.0

Series1

10.0

15.0

20.0

25.0 11

Economic Status of Jersey Shore According to the U.S. Census data (1999, 2010), the economic status of Jersey Shore residents is lower than that of the United States. Through the past decade, poverty and unemployment rates have increased despite an increase in the average median household income.

Poverty Levels

Household Income

Economic Figures

Occupational Figures

Percent

12

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Sustainable Development Options River Town Project Method Community Visioning/River Town Application Concluding Thoughts

14

River Town Project

4

In an effort to take steps towards revitalizing Jersey Shore, the town has partnered with the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership (SGP). The SGP is a regional organization working with towns located along the Susquehanna River in Pennsylvania to create a Greenway of connected trails, parks, preserved land and prospering river towns. The towns along the Susquehanna River, including Jersey Shore, developed because of the river. The river was a huge resource and laid the groundwork for industry and transportation to and from the towns. SGP recognizes that the same characteristics of these towns that made them successful in the past can make them successful again. Embracing the river, providing connected walking and biking trails, creating parks and recreation areas, and having a beautiful and active downtown will encourage more people to choose to live or to visit Jersey Shore, thereby bringing more economic activity to the area. Plans to implement these ideas are being developed in a way to maximize green space and promote sustainability.

In Jersey Shore green infrastructure projects will be implemented in an effort to reduce flooding from heavy rains. Flooding has also been a significant and tragic piece of the history of Jersey Shore, impacting homes, businesses and the town’s infrastructure. SGP promotes the implementation of green infrastructure projects throughout the town, which can alleviate the stress put on the storm water drainage system and reduce the number and severity of floods. Green infrastructure can also improve the water quality of the river. This is important, as the town has established that they wish to use the river as a source of recreation. Green infrastructure projects would also beautify the town, thus making it more appealing to those who live in Jersey Shore as well as encouraging tourists to visit and contribute to the local economy. The greenway project taken on by Jersey Shore and SGP will help to create a ‘sense of place’ and cultivate a sense of pride and identity for the community. It will transform the town into a pedestrian and biker-friendly community promoting a healthy lifestyle and giving more freedom to youth and the elderly. The project will also stimulate the local economy, creating jobs in a diverse market and making for a sustainable economic base.

4

Source: SGP Rivertowns Program Information Packet 15

Method As students, our involvement with the Jersey Shore river town project was initiated through course work. In this Landscape Architecture course (Larch 424: Community-Based design/planning and community engagement) in fall 2012, we actively discussed methods and theories of engagement. We were introduced to the River Town Project in Jersey Shore by Trish Carothers, director of SGP. We then familiarized ourselves with the community through archival research and a field visit. Our first handson experience with the community was the visioning exercise, in which we acted as note takers on October 25th, 2012 (and discussed in greater detail later). This event allowed us to better understand the concerns of the community and identify prevalent issues that needed resolution. Through methods of site analysis, we were able to physically map out areas of flood concern. Additionally, a field survey of the Borough was conducted to determine specific locations for potential green infrastructure projects. Renderings (two-dimensional realistic images) were created of proposed concepts that showed possible applications of sustainable green infrastructure. Finally, our end goal was to provide a compiled set of documents that contain concepts produced throughout the process, culminating in this report.

16

Community Visioning/River Town Application On October 25th 2012, Jersey Shore held a community-visioning event to kick-off the revitalization project. This was done while simultaneously completing the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership’s river town assessment questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of 27 questions in five categories: community life, sustainable economic development, 21st century economy, treasured towns, and treasured landscapes. Attending the meeting that evening were SGP representatives, SEDA-COG representatives, students from Penn State, and about 30 members from the Jersey Shore community. The community members represented a wide age group and many of them were active in other organizations within the town. The local high school was represented by four students (from the school’s Outdoor Club) and two teachers.

Attendees of the meetings were divided into four groups of eight and then, led by a facilitator, completed the river town questionnaire. Once completed the entire group reconvened to discuss the results collected by the smaller groups. Each of the small groups agreed on several major themes: • Encouraging tourism • Developing the river and river related recreational activities • Making the town pedestrian friendly • Embracing the river by enhancing accessibility and creating views of the river The questionnaire also brought to light assets and resources already present in Jersey Shore that could be used to meet their goals. Jersey Shore has several parks that are maintained by local residents, many local organizations and events, regional biking and walking trails, and a rich history involving the river and being a canal town. But perhaps the most significant asset of Jersey Shore is the support of both residents and the local government of revitalization efforts. The excitement in the room was unmistakable – the whole town was in agreement with the revitalization efforts being discussed, in partnership with SGP and the local government (represented by the Borough Council).

17

Concluding Thoughts Jersey Shore has been successful in partnering with the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership and SEDA-COG to help them realize their goal of becoming a river town. Their efforts have been recognized locally and regionally and have been rewarded with grants to begin several projects.

Projects that are currently in the planning and/or funding process include: • River access project • Complete streets project • Downtown façade renovation project Already completed is the rails-to-trails extension project, which places the new trailhead just a few blocks from Jersey Shore’s downtown. This extension, coupled with the planned Complete Streets project for Seminary Street, will bring people into downtown Jersey Shore. This provides the impetus to revitalize the downtown area with shops and restaurants.

18

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Revitalizing Jersey Shore Through Green Infrastructure Projects Future Community Engagement Methods

Green Infrastructure Opportunities - Explanation of the programs Preliminary Demonstration Projects Project Presentation Notes/Conclusions

20

Future Community Engagement Methods (1-3) This project undertaken through our coursework at Penn State represents a moment in the longer process of revitalizing the community of Jersey Shore. Community engagement is a key component of this longer process. A major theme throughout this revitalization project is sustainability: a sustainable economy, a sustainable environment, and a sustainable, thriving town. Many studies have shown that towns that encourage civic participation take sustainability goals more seriously and have more successful results in implementing sustainability projects. The list of techniques and strategies to encourage participation within a community is limitless, however we have collected a list of engagement methods here in hopes that all members of the Jersey Shore community will be able to contribute to the transformation of their town.

1. Lost on the Moon Rank 15 items in order of importance individually and then as a group.

Take-away: lesson learned: group thinks better than the individual (“Community Design Primer” Randolph T. Hester)

Lost on the Moon

2. Community Building Group forms a circle, locking arms while two people left outside the circle try to get inside.

Take-away: understand what it feels like not to be heard, to be left out (“Community Design Primer” Randolph T. Hester)

3. Goal Setting Pose an abstract question, have community create list of goals, conduct rounds of voting until final list is agreed upon.

Image derived from michaelhendarikbahlmann.blogspot.com

Take-away: understand importance of goal setting and working as a team to reach consensus. (“Community Design Primer” Randolph T. Hester)

21

Future Community Engagement Methods (4-7) 4. A Survey

A Survey

Survey for whole community on specific issue; open-ended questions followed by detailed multiple-choice questions.

Take-away: get full understanding of community needs and ideas (“Community Design Primer” Randolph T. Hester)

5. Introducing a Community to Itself Allows different people to share their perspective of the community to the group.

Take-away: group will learn how others see the community (“Community Design Primer” Randolph T. Hester)

6. Organizing

Image derived from vbridges.com

Steps from identifying problem, developing course of action and following through until complete.

Take-away: effectively make change in community and gain trust to continue on other projects (“Community Design Primer” Randolph T. Hester)

Two Dozen Things

7. Two Dozen Things I Like to Do and Where I Like to Do Them Individuals list 24 things they like to do in the community, where and why.

Take-away: discover aspects that make “good places” (“Community Design Primer” Randolph T. Hester)

Image derived from blog.xssoftware.com

22

Future Community Engagement Methods (8-11) 8. Environments to Love

Listening

Spend several hours in the most and least loved places in the community observing how people behave and characteristics of these places.

Take-away: observe what makes a good place and a bad place (“Community Design Primer” Randolph T. Hester)

9. Listening Make an effort to really listen to what everyone has to say, interpreting common ideas and areas for focus.

Take away: clarifies problem, involves residents, reveals conflicts and shows how committed community is to a particular community project (“Community Design Primer” Randolph T. Hester)

10. Dots

Image derived from africanb2.wordpress.com

Guiding Disjointed

Connect without lifting pencil the 9 major aspects of a good community.

Take-away: think “outside the box” to solve problems (“Community Design Primer” Randolph T. Hester)

11. Guiding Disjointed Incrementalism Create a framework for solution to a problem including each step, possible constraints and budget.

Take-away: community members will be better able to tackle problem themselves and have understanding of difficulties involved (“Community Design Primer” Randolph T. Hester)

Image derived from villapark.org

23

Future Community Engagement Methods (12-15) 12. Place-Appropriate Economic Development

Design Simulation

Match local resources to needs of community.

Take-away: solve needs of a community using local resources and skills (“Community Design Primer” Randolph T. Hester)

13. Design Simulation (Minipug) Group designs a space on a game board realistically using costs and resources available.

Take-away: residents will learn to manage budget on a project and prioritize goals as well visually see the future of their community as they want it to unfold (“Community Design Primer” Randolph T. Hester)

14. Getting a Gestalt Reviewing the outcome of minipug, identify key elements residents want in their community and configure them in a pleasing and effective way.

Image derived from barebooks.com

Snow Card

Take-away: create a vision for a community which incorporates everyone’s key elements and wants (“Community Design Primer” Randolph T. Hester)

15. Snow Card Answers, written on index cards, to a specific planning question are fastened to a wall according to common themes.

Take-away: as a group discover themes in community goals (“Community Participation Methods in Design and Planning” Chapter 2) Image derived from educational-software.com

24

Future Community Engagement Methods (16-19) 16. Power of Visualization

Power of Visualization

Facilitator guides the group, eyes closed, through their town 20 years from now, then individuals write down images and share with the group.

Take-away: begin creative thinking without constraints, discover important elements (“Creative Community Planning” Gilt-edged resource #1, Sarkissian & Hurford)

17. The Embodied Affinity Diagram After a meeting, a group writes a lesson they just learned on a card. In silence group walks around and finds lessons similar to theirs then writes on big sheet of paper in categories Take-away: see meeting from others point of view (“Creative Community Planning” Gilt-edged resource #2, Sarkissian & Hurford)

18. Barefoot Mapping Young adults write specifically what they want to keep, change, and add to a community map taped to the floor.

Image derived from inclusivedesigntoolkit.com

Barefoot Mapping

Take-away: visually see young people’s point of view (“Creative Community Planning” Gilt-edged resource #4, Sarkissian & Hurford)

19. A Week with a Camera Children are given a camera to take pictures of good and bad aspects of their community and then create a collage of their pictures.

Image derived from reflexologyinstitute.com

Take-away: child’s point of view of community (“Creative Community Planning” Gilt-edged resource #5, Sarkissian & Hurford) 25

Community Engagement Methods (20-23) 20. Talking Circles

Citizen’s Juries

One group in a circle talks while others sit outside and just listen, no interruptions.

Take-away: allow different groups to have time to discuss an idea and have others listen to their opinions (“Creative Community Planning” Chapter 12, Sarkissian & Hurford)

21. Online Forum On the forum, community members and other stakeholders can hold a conversation sharing their ideas and opinions on a community issue.

Take-away: community members are given the freedom to contribute without having to speak in public in front of a crowd and when it is convenient for them. (www.local.gov.uk/)

22. Citizen’s Juries A group of local citizens act as a judicial jury, listen to others present their concerns about a potential issue and then deliver a ‘verdict.’

Take-away: average citizens hold position of power and critically think about community concerns. (www.local.gov.uk/)

23. Historical Timelines The community creates a historical timeline of their town on a piece of paper that everyone can see.

Take-away: community members know information that cannot be collected via a census.

Great way to discover historical significance of areas of the town.

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Image derived from ericpetersautos.com

Green Infrastructure Opportunities: Explanation of the Program Green Infrastructure is both a method of storm water management and a method of community design that embraces the natural environment.

Traditional ways of managing storm water include collecting the run off water in drains through underground pipes, carrying the excess water to be deposited in a stream, lake, or pond. This management method contributes to water pollution (as any chemicals or other pollutants on paved surfaces are collected by run off and then dumped into the bodies of water) and does little to prevent flooding. On the other hand, green infrastructure mimics processes in nature to collect excess rainwater and prevent flooding. The run off is instead collected in small pockets of green space where strategically planted vegetation absorbs the water, filtering pollutants, and returning the clean water to the soil.

Additionally green infrastructure is a way of designing the built environment to connect a community to nature and to encourage both walking and biking as forms of everyday transportation. This may include bike lanes, cross walks, signage for pedestrians, use of tree plantings/flowers to enhance street level aesthetics, as well as cautionary signs for motorists.

Green infrastructure can benefit a community in several ways: • Provides cleaner water and air • Reduces risk and severity of floods • Is less costly to build and maintain than traditional storm water management • Encourages other forms of transportation besides cars • Encourages a healthy lifestyle • Connects a community to nature • Is aesthetically pleasing • Creates a sense of place and identity within a community In the next few pages we present a preliminary analysis of Jersey Shore with the intent of first identifying suitable sites for green infrastructure projects and then presenting some possible conceptual designs at a few selected sites.

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Jersey Shore

Green Infrastructure Opportunities: Context Map

Church Rails to Trails Extension

Catholic Church

Library

Lutheran Church

Hospital Middle School Cemetary Elementary School

Church

Baptist Church

River Access Church

Life Tree Church

High School

The map above shows some of the main public facilities within Jersey Shore. These can serve as potential sites for demonstration projects.

Incorporating a significant public amenity or facility will help add exposure and relevancy to the green infrastructure demonstration project.

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Green Infrastructure Opportunities: Impervious Surfaces The Jersey Shore drainage area comprises 5.0 square miles of localized drainage into the Susquehanna River through intermittent streams of Pfouts and Lawshe Runs. The area drained includes portions of the Borough of Jersey Shore (53.8%) and Porter and Piatt Townships. Pine Creek watershed contains a total area of 785.7 square miles. Of this watershed area, 46.2% of the land is found within the Jersey Shore Borough.

Jersey Shore does not have a comprehensive stormwater management regulation, but it does have stormwater standards contained within their respective Subdivision and Land Development Ordinances.

Jersey Shore comprises of 1365 acres of surface area. Impervious surfaces account for more than a quarter of this area (27.2% or 292 acres). Runoff from the impervious surfaces contributes to the overall amount of water runoff from Jersey Shore. Reducing the amount of impervious stormwater runoff from these areas is a good strategy.

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Green Infrastructure Opportunities: Slope

3 1

30

2

This map shows the slopes found throughout the Borough.

Areas of high slopes are indicated in red, orange, and yellow and provide the highest opportunity for green infrastructure due to the problematic implications of sheet flow and erosion caused by high velocity water.

The following sites are located in high slope areas:

1. Weis Parking lot

2. CVS Parking lot

3. Cross section of Hill

Alley and Harris Street

Green Infrastructure Opportunities: Map Using the impervious surfaces and slope map, a suitability analysis was created. The areas of red show the greatest opportunity for green infrastructure. These areas are predominantly found along roads and high concentration of impervious surface with a high slope percentage.

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Preliminary Demonstration Projects: Context Map Three locations were chosen for more specified design as demonstration projects within Jersey Shore. The first was the McClintock parking lot, an example for implementing green infrastructure within a parking lot. The second site is Thompson Street, a site recommended by EPA through the Technical Assistance Workshop conducted at Jersey Shore. The third site location was along Seminary Street, where the existing bicycle trail exists. The demonstration project design along Seminary Street is intended to encourage bicycling as a form of transportation.

Thompson Street

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Seminary Street

McClintock Parking Lot

McClintock Parking Lot The McClintock parking lot is located at the corner of McClintock alley and North Main Street. This plan shows the McClintock Parking lot and its surrounding context.

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McClintock Parking Lot: Existing Condition Project Description

As the entire parking lot is made of impervious material, stormwater runoff becomes a major contributor to nonpoint pollution. Low impact development can lower construction and maintenance cost by 25-30%.

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McClintock Parking Lot: Design Option 1 (Low Cost) Features

Porous asphalt is similar to regular asphalt but it has a lower concentration of fines. This best management practice allows for water to infiltrate through the pavement, recharging groundwater and providing less runoff.

Pros

- Allows for water infiltration - Lowest cost option - Reduces runoff

Cons

- No added green space - Limited filtering of pollutants - Yearly maintenance

Maintenance

- The pavement of the parking lot should be vacuumed with a vacuum sweeper twice a year.

- Any landscaping near the porous pavement should be maintained to prevent soil washout onto the pavement.

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McClintock Parking Lot: Design Option 2 (Medium Cost) Features

- This pocket infiltration system will allow for stormwater to be collected within the parking lot.

Impervious pavement will slope to the infiltration system.

Pros

- Allows for water infiltration - Creates new green space - Reduces runoff

Cons

- One to two parking spaces will be lost - Medium price option Maintenance - Landscape maintenance of the pocket infiltration system.

- Cleaning maintenance around the raised drop inlet.

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McClintock Parking Lot: Design Option 3 (High Cost) Features

-Creating a bioswale between McClintock Alley will allow for stormwater to flow into the infiltration site. Repaved impervious pavement is sloped to the bioswale.

Pros

- Allows for water infiltration - Creates new green space - Reduces runoff

Cons

- The space needed for the bioswale will require a portion of McClintock Alley.

- Highest costing option

Maintenance

-Closely monitoring and documenting the progress of the bioswale is important -Bioswales require upkeep of newly planted plants, -Weed infiltration is a problem if not maintained. Manually removing weeds is preferred.

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McClintock Parking Lot: Design Option 3 Perspective Visualization Features

-The perspective shows water flowing off of the parking lot asphalt into a vegetated bioswale, where it will be able to infiltrate directly back into the groundwater system.

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McClintock Parking Lot: Bioswale Detail This section illustrates how a bio-swale with a water infiltration system works. As the water moves from the sloped pavement it runs through a curb cut where it comes in contact with gravel to collect any wastes that may be moved with the runoff. This water then is infiltrated and detoxified through the plant species and soil, eventually recharging ground water. If a large rain event occurs the bio-swale overflow water is routed into a raised drop inlet which connects to the sewer system.

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Thompson Street: Complete Street Project

One of three locations picked for potential use of green infrastructure is Thompson Street. It is susceptible to flooding and, therefore, the addition of trees and bioswales can help mitigate the negative impact of flooding to decrease the negative effects. Moreover, given its proximity to public schools, it calls for a safe environment. The width of Thompson can be reduced by the addition of bike lanes, making it safe and pedestrian friendly.

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Thompson Street: Existing Condition Thompson street is a wide street that does not take advantage of its physical conditions. Bike lanes and bioswale can be added to effectively enhance its function and aesthetic appeal.

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Thompson Street: Design Option 1 (addition of bike lanes) Features

- New marked bicycle lanes on both sides

Benefits

- Bike lanes increase safety - Encourages biking/walking - Create safe environment for school zones

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Thompson Street: Design Option 2 (bike lanes and bioswales) Features

- Bioswales on both sides - New bicycle lanes on both sides

Benefits of Bioswale

- Bike lanes increase safety by slowing down traffic - Absorbs stormwater runoff - Reduces flooding - Enhances natural setting, creating a memorable experience

Maintenance

-Closely monitoring and documenting the progress of the bioswale is important -Bioswales require upkeep of newly planted plants, -Weed infiltration is a problem if not maintained.

Manually removing weeds is preferred.

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Seminary Street Project Options Rails to Trails Access Connection

2

River Access Point

1

3

Downtown Access

Along Seminary Street, there are three different conditions that have been identified and are differentiated by the 1 to 3 blue box numbering.

The text and drawings that follow will describe the existing conditions and offer possible alternatives for the specific characterization of the existing street type.

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Overall Benefits of Seminary Street Improvements - Acts as a demonstration project showcasing green infrastructure - Makes a stronger connection between the Seminary Bike Trail and the existing Rails to Trails - Reduces vehicular dominance along Seminary Street - Offers a connection to a future trail extension to the river and to the business district - Expands upon recreational amenities in Jersey Shore - Helps to encourage more bicycle and walking traffic

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1

Seminary Street: Existing Condition Features:

- A single bike lane - No sidewalk - Two-way road

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1

Seminary Street: Design Option 1 - Perspective Visualization The first option maintains the placement of the existing bike trail to the side, while also implementing a new sidewalk to keep consistency along Seminary Street.

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1

Seminary Street: Design Option 2 - Plan

Features - Add a new walkway to maintain consistency of a sidewalk along the entirety of Seminary Street - Make the new sidewalk of a pervious material to allow for direct water infiltration - which in return, helps to eliminate excess water infiltrating the storm drains - Add a curb against the new sidewalk for elevation - Alter position and design of existing bike lane - Add a second width for a two lane bicycle path - Bikes and vehicles will share lane, with bicycles taking priority

Maintenance -Pervious paving should be vacuumed biannually to remove debris buildup

Pervious Sidewalk

2 Way Bike lane Asphalt Road

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Asphalt Road

1

Seminary Street: Design Option 2 - Diagram

2 Way Painted Bicycle Lanes Asphalt Road

- Shared equally between bicyclists and motorists

New Concrete Curb

-Curb separates the road from the sidewalk

New Pervious Concrete Sidewalk

- To establish consistency of a sidewalk along the entirety of the street

Design Composite

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1

50

Seminary Street: Design Option 2 - Perspective Visualization The proposed design will include shared bike and vehicle lanes, forcing automobile traffic to slow down. Additionally, a new sidewalk on one side of the road will be added to maintain consistency along the street.

2

Seminary Street: Existing Condition Features:

- Two sided street parking - Grass strip on one side of the street - With two sided street parking, road is not wide enough for simultaneous two way traffic flow

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2

52

Seminary Street: Design Option 1 - Perspective Visualization The first option adds a bike trail that is consistent in placement with other sections of Seminary Street, while painting it a more vibrant color. In addition, this design replaces the existing street side grass strip with a planted bioswale.

2

Seminary Street: Design Option 2 - Plan

Features - Maintain existing two sided street parking - Alter position and design of existing bike lane - Add a second width for a two lane bicycle path - Bikes and vehicles will share lane, with bicycles taking precedent - Add a planted bioswale to one side of the street - Add a new curb with curb cuts to allow access water infiltration from the road into the bioswale - Keep existing sidewalk

Maintenance -Closely monitoring and documenting the progress of the bioswale is important.

-Bioswales require upkeep of newly planted plants.

-Weed infiltration is a problem if not maintained. Manually removing weeds is preferred.

Existing Sidewalk Bioswale Curb with curb cuts

Existing Parking

Existing Parking Shared Bike Lanes and Road

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2

Seminary Street: Design Option 2 - Diagram

2 Way Painted Bicycle Lanes New Concrete Curb

-With curb cuts to allow for water from street to enter

Planted Bioswale

-To directly infiltrate water from the street and sidewalk

Existing Concrete Sidewalk Existing TwoSided Parking

Design Composite

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2

Seminary Street: Design Option 2 - Perspective Visualization This proposed option includes shared bike and vehicle lanes to reduce traffic speed on the street.

This span of the design will make a connection to the existing rails to trails lane. In addition, the existing grass strip will be converted into a bioswale, and the existing on-street parking and driving scenario will be kept.

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3

Seminary Street: Existing Condition Features:

- Narrow sidewalk on both sides of street - Single sided on street parking - Two way vehicle traffic - Grass median separating road from sidewalk on one side

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3

Seminary Street: Design Option 1 - Perspective Visualization The first option adds a bike trail that is consistent in placement with other sections of Seminary Street, while painting it a more vibrant color. In addition, this design replaces the existing street side grass strip with a planted bioswale against the on-street parking, while adding a bioswale to the opposite sidewalk.

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3

Seminary Street: Design Option 2 - Plan

Features - Maintain existing sidewalks on both sides of the street - Add a planted bioswale against both existing sidewalks - The bioswales occupy a portion of the existing driving lanes - Add a new curbs with curb cuts against the bioswales to allow access for water infiltration - Add two lane bicycle path - Bikes and vehicles will share lane, with bicycles taking precedent - Maintain existing one sided street parking

Maintenance -Closely monitoring and documenting the progress of the bioswale is important.

-Bioswales require upkeep of newly planted plants.

-Weed infiltration is a problem if not maintained. Manually removing weeds is preferred.

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Curb Bioswale Existing Sidewalk

Curb Road

Bioswale

Road Shared 2 Lane Bike Path

Existing Street Parking

Existing Sidewalk

3

Seminary Street: Design Option 2 - Diagram

2 Way Painted Bicycle Lanes Existing Street Parking and Road New Concrete Curbs -With curb cuts to allow for water from street to enter

Planted Bioswale

- To directly infiltrate water from the street and sidewalk

Existing Sidewalks

Design Composite 59

3

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Seminary Street: Design Option 2 - Perspective Visualization This design option proposes a shared two way bike and vehicle lane to reduce traffic speed, while maintaining the existing condition of one side street parking. In addition, curbs and bioswales are proposed to both sides of the street, reducing the overall width of the street.

Seminary Street Wayfindiing Signs Sign Placement Map Rails to Trails Access

Park Access

River & Boat Drop Access

Business District Access

New signage can encourage greater willingness for exploration, as people will be able to know exactly how far they are from a certain amenity within Jersey Shore. For example, visitors may be more inclined to continue to the business district if they know exactly where to find it and how close they are.

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Green Infrastructure Opportunities: Response to Projects On December 6th the students from Penn State’s Hamer Center for Community Design presented three demonstration projects to the Jersey Shore River Town Revitalization Team and solicited feedback from the community. The three selected areas to demonstrate potential green infrastructure projects within Jersey Shore were 1) McClintock Alley Parking Lot, 2) Thompson Street, and 3) Seminary Street.

The feedback collected is as follows: 1)

McClintock Alley Parking Lots Demonstration - Use of impervious pavement as infiltration gardens • Great idea because drainage downtown is always a problem • Aesthetically pleasing • Lawshe Run is near this location • Would help beautify Jersey Shore • Like bioswales and plantings • The plan with the most change was the most liked option (Design Option 3, page 37 of report): it combined pervious parking lot and sacrificed parking for bioswales

2)

Thompson Street Demonstration - Create a complete street • Take bioswale out of sidewalk: moving sidewalks and fence is most likely less expensive than repouring curb and street • Like the trees and plantings • Bike lane is a good idea • This is a busy area during school arrival and dismissal (design should take account of this) • Looks very inviting for the school • The walking path area has poor drainage (water lays on path), bioswales are needed

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Green Infrastructure Opportunities: Response to Projects 3)

Seminary Street Demonstration - Create a shared bicycle/vehicle way • Way finding signs would “welcome” a visitor to the community • May be difficult to get buy-in from residents along the street to maintain flower beds along sidewalk • May be more realistic (safer) to have the bike lane on the side of the road rather than in the center • Center bike lane might work because it is a low-traffic street • Parking along Seminary Street would have to be consistently eliminated • It would be nice to have the bike lane clearly marked from rail-trail to downtown • Having the bike path painted a bright color and the speed limit painted on the surface would make motorists more aware of bikes • Like the bioswales • There is a large gravel parking lot for sale along Seminary Street that could be used instead of on-street parking • Remove median strip to make road wider for bike trail • If possible, could power lines be moved underground?

• Could bioswales and porous pavement be implemented here as in the McClintock Parking Lot demonstration?

All of the community members, as well as representatives of local and regional organizations agreed that green infrastructure projects would greatly benefit Jersey Shore. Additionally, they also agreed that the three locations, chosen by the Penn State students, would be ideal places to start such projects, as they would have the largest impact and serve as visible demonstration projects. These locations will connect the Pine Creek to the downtown area, increase the aesthetic appeal along the connections, and improve the quality while reducing the volume of storm water runoff. The next stage of the green infrastructure project should include communicating with the town about these projects and formally choosing locations and specific projects that can be started.

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References “About the Greenway.” Susquehanna Greenway. N.p., n.d. Web. “Bare Books/Tree Top Publishing - Create Your Own Puzzles and Books, Lined Paper, Stickers, Calendars, Journals and More.” Bare Books/ Tree Top Publishing - Create Your Own Puzzles and Books, Lined Paper, Stickers, Calendars, Journals and More. N.p., n.d. Web. http:// barebooks.com/ Brunn, Dennis and Michael Powell. “Discovering Techniques for Community Engagement.” Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey.

“City of Villa Park.” City of Villa Park. N.p., n.d. Web. http://www.villapark.org “Computer Products for Education Has What You Need for School, and Beyond.”Educational Software from Computer Products for Education, Schools, Faculty, and Homeschools. N.p., n.d. Web. Such as Microsoft, Adobe, Symantec, Corel, Avid, and More, for Students, Teachers, http://www.educational-software.com/index.aspx Hester, T. Randolph. “Community Design Primer.” Mendocino, CA: Ridge Times, 1990. Web. Inclusivedesigntoolkit.com “Jersey Shore Borough.” Jersey Shore Borough. N.p., n.d. Web. Michaelhendarikbahlmann.blogspot.com “Modern Institute of Reflexology.” Modern Institute of Reflexology. N.p., n.d. Web. http://reflexologyinstitute.com “Our English Class 3.” Our English Class 3. http://africanb2.wordpress.com/. N.p., n.d.Web. Sanoff, Henry. “Community Participation Methods in Design and Planning.” New York: Wiley, 1999. Print Sarkissian, Wendy and Dianna Hurford. “Creative Community Planning: Transformative Engagement Methods for Working at the Edge.”London: Earthscan, 2010.

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References SGP Rivertowns Program Information Packet United States Census Bureau. http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/nav/jsf/pages/index.xhtml “Virtualization of Desktop | Virtual Bridges.” Virtual Bridges. N.p., n.d. Web. http://vbridges.com “Welcome to Eric Peters Autos.” Eric Peters Autos. N.p., n.d. Web. http://ericpetersautos.com “What Is Green Infrastructure?” Water: Green Infrastructure. United States Environmental Protection Agency.

“Xpress Software Inc.” Xpress Software Inc. N.p., n.d. Web. htp://blog.xssoftware.com.

Websites EPA: http://www.epa.gov/ SGP: http://www.susquehannagreenway.org/ Jersey Shore Borough: http://www.jerseyshoreboro.org/jsboro/

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