Lenape Park Project

Meeting Minutes

NEW HOPE BOROUGH REVITALIZATION COMMITTEE

MEMBERS:

Dee Dee Bowman, Chairperson
Edwin Hild, Vice-chairperson
Thom Smyth, Secretary
Sharon Keiser
Ed Duffy
Joanne Baer
Roy Ziegler
Earl Bierman
Susan Taylor
Connie Gering
Charles Huchet
Barry Ziff
N.G.Holloway

The minutes of the Special Public Meetings of the New Hope Borough Revitalization Committee concerning the design of Lenape Park, located at 52 West Ferry Street, are reprinted below.

NEW HOPE BOROUGH REVITALIZATION COMMITTEE

PUBLIC WORKSHOP MEETING

180 WEST BRIDGE STREET

MINUTES OF JANUARY 26, 2006

Chairperson Dee Dee Bowman called the Revitalization Committee meeting to order at 7:10 P.M. Roll call was taken. Committee members attending were: Dee Dee Bowman, Edwin Hild, Thom Smyth, Ed Duffy, Sharyn Keiser, Connie Gering, Roy Ziegler, Susan Taylor, Joanne Baer, and Barry Ziff. Absent were: N. G. Holloway, Charles Huchet, Earl Bierman, and Elaine Daniels. Mayor Laurence Keller, John Burke, Borough Manager, Rob Loughery, Borough Grants Coordinator, and Evan Stone of Pickering, Corts, and Summerson, Inc. also attended.

Barry Ziff mentioned that the Revitalization Committee is involved in a number of improvement projects in the Borough, including the Canal Walk Project and the Directional Sign Project. Mr. Ziff also mentioned that the New Hope Historical Society, in cooperation with Borough Council, is planning a Historic Marker Program to designate historic locations throughout the Borough.

Dee Dee Bowman stated that the Committee made a great effort to notify as many people as possible about tonight’s meeting. The public notification effort included press releases published in the four local newspapers, a legal advertisement, the distribution of about 1400 flyers by Committee members, and a mailing to about 168 property owners. Ms. Bowman also thanked Connie Gering, President of the Chamber, for providing email notifications to all Chamber members.

Dee Dee Bowman introduced Evan Stone, the project design consultant. Mr. Stone’s presentation is summarized in the attachment to these minutes.

Dee Dee Bowman asked for comments from the Committee members. Barry Ziff asked if there would be a barrier separating the park from the railroad. Evan Stone replied that a fence will be installed along the boundary with the railroad and this fence will continue along the West Bridge Street side of the park property.

Dee Dee Bowman asked for public comment. Kelly Metzger asked if the park would be smoke-free and if fish would be included in the water feature. Ms. Metzger also commented favorably on the idea of using Delaware River rock.

Joe Balderson asked the Committee to consider changing the planned “water feature” to a “water garden.” Mr. Balderson commented that he was fond of fish and would like to see goldfish included in the water garden because they require so little effort to maintain. Mr. Balderson also asked the Committee to plant Hawthorne trees at the park to draw butterflies and inquired if the railroad track area adjacent to the park will be cleaned up. Evan Stone replied that the railroad track area is not part of the current plan, but could be included in the future with additional grant funds and the cooperation of the railroad.

Dee Dee Bowman commented that the park is conceived as an outdoor living space, a backyard for Borough residents.

Jane Vitar asked about the inclusion of a Petanque (i. e., the French version Bocce or lawn bowling) court. Ed Duffy urged the Committee to keep the option open to install a Bocce court at the new park. John Burke replied that the current plans for the Canal Walk Project include a Bocce court.

Dan Luizzi of West Bridge Street expressed concern about plans for park lighting. He asked that any such lighting be subdued and be focused on the ground.

A West Ferry Street property owner, who stated that she lives in Connecticut, expressed concerns about public safety at the park and asked if the Committee has plans to improve other areas within the Borough.

Joe Balderson stated the water garden maintenance is minimal, that the Borough may have to shut down the water supply in the winter, and that it may be necessary to employ heaters to keep an area of the water garden free from ice to allow any gases to vent.

Gregg Conocchioli, a shop owner on West Ferry Street, asked the following questions. 1. Has the Borough explored other uses for the land, such as a parking lot? 2. What is the role of the proposed park in revitalizing New Hope? 3. Why is this project being handled by the Revitalization Committee instead of the Recreation Board? 4. What will be the annual maintenance cost? What is more expensive to maintain -- hardscape or softscape? 5. Will the park be used in conjunction with the proposed community arts center? 6. Will the plans include a walking path along the periphery of the park? 7. Will the park include mini exercise stations? 8. Will the park be used by residents? 9. Will the park include a “Founders Walk,” listing individuals who have been influential in the progress and growth of New Hope? 10. Will pets be allowed in the park? 11. Will the Borough rent the park for weddings and other special occasions? Mr. Conocchioli commented that tourists also have a right to use the park, that it should be open at both the West Ferry and West Bridge locations, and that the park can provide a “gateway” from West Bridge Street to West Ferry Street. Dee Dee Bowman replied the park is located in an area of West Ferry Street that is residential in nature -- not commercial, that the park will provide a location for periodic art exhibits, and that the Committee will discuss the issue of pets. Sharyn Keiser stated that allowing weddings at the park would not be a serene use.

Doro Kerr, a resident of North Main Street, stated that the proposed use of trees to act as a barrier to the soot generated by the railroad conflicts with the goal of visual connectivity. Ms. Kerr also asked how many locals would actually use the park.

Gregg Conocchioli, a shop owner on West Ferry Street, asked if individual business directory signs could be incorporated into the Directional Sign Project.

Dee Dee Bowman thanked the Committee members and the public for attending tonight’s meeting and assured all that their views and comments had been heard and would be considered by the Committee as it proceeds with the park design process.

Dee Dee Bowman asked for approval of the Committee minutes of the December 19, 2005 public meeting. The Committee unanimously approved the December 19, 2005 minutes. The meeting adjourned at approximately 9:00 P.M.

New Hope Borough Revitalization Committee

180 West Bridge Street

Minutes of September 19, 2006

Special Public Meeting

Chairperson Dee Dee Bowman called the meeting to order at 7:05 P.M. Present were: Charles Huchet, Connie Gering, Dee Dee Bowman, Earl Bierman, Ed Duffy, Sharyn Keiser, Joanne Baer, Edwin Hild, Thom Smyth, and Roy Ziegler. Also attending were Borough Manager John Burke, Design Consultant Evan Stone, and approximately 12 interested residents.

The Chairperson, Dee Dee Bowman, asked the members of the Committee to introduce themselves to the audience. Ms. Bowman asked Evan Stone to begin a PowerPoint presentation especially prepared for this meeting meeting. Mr. Stone stated that he has been working with the Committee over the last year to assist in the design of the Ferry Street Park. He explained his role as that of a facilitator who offers expert and technical guidance to the Committee. Mr. Stone mentioned that he had made a similar public presentation on January 26, 2006 at which the Committee had asked for public comment at the start of the design process. Mr. Stone also stated that the Committee’s recommended design plan for the park is available on the Borough’s web site, along with other documentation.

Mr. Stone’s presentation included the following information: mission statement, goals and objectives, opportunities and constraints analysis, existing vegetation analysis, definition of pocket park, and concept plans A, B, and C. Mr. Evans explained that concept plan C evolved over time and is now the Committee’s recommended design plan. Mr. Evans explained that various factors, in addition to the goals and objectives, influenced the design concept. These included security, access, circulation, and accessibility. Mr. Stone stated that the Ferry Street entrance serves as a gateway into the park, which features three separate gathering areas (lower, central, and amphitheater), a water feature/garden (to provide white noise, visual interest, and relaxation), and a gazebo-like structure (for music, photos, etc.). Mr. Evans described concept development in terms of the park elements and materials: boulder seats and walls, pond and waterfalls, red brick pavers, Belgian block curbs, river stones and boulders, stone pattern retaining walls, buffering and screening, planting design, fencing, lighting, and lawn steps at the amphitheater. Mr. Stone stated that the park would be fenced on three sides—along the Bridge Street, Ferry Street, and railroad boundaries. He suggested that the fence along the Bridge and Ferry street boundaries be ornamental and that the fence along the railroad boundary be simple, understated, hidden by landscaping, and no more that 5 ft. in height. Mr. Stone stressed that the railroad boundary presented the opportunity to clean up and green a portion of the railroad property, as this would be a visual extension of the park. Mr. Stone stated that lighting would be low level, accent lighting for security. Mr. Stone presented a 3-D virtual walk-through tour of the park featuring the water garden, gathering areas, gazebo, and other prominent features. Mr. Stone concluded by stating that the recommended design plan is the result of a planning process lasting approximately one year. The next step in the process is for the Committee to consider public comment this evening, followed by a final recommendation to Borough Council. Once Council approved the plan, PCS will prepare the bid specifications so that the project may be bid and contracts awarded.

Dee Dee Bowman thanked Mr. Stone for his presentation and asked for comments from the Committee members. Ed Duffy stated that the plan was spectacular and a great plan. Charles Huchet thanked Evan Stone and Dee Dee Bowman for their great efforts over the last year. Roy Ziegler stated that the Committee has carefully considered public comment from the January 26, 2006 meeting and that the recommended design plan reflects those comments. Joanne Baer stated that she was impressed by the Committee’s ability to incorporate residents’ comments, both immediate neighbors of the park and other Borough residents, into the final design plan. Edwin Hild stated that the Committee had done a good job of acting on input from key organizations, such as the Recreation Board, and the community. Sharyn Keiser stated that the Committee had adopted a democratic process, taking into account different opinions within the community, and that the park will provide an ideal setting for such activities as poetry readings, chamber music, art exhibits, and book clubs. Dee Dee Bowman stated that the Committee has untaken an excruciating, but challenging process to design the park. She stated that design by committee is never an easy process, and that it has been a real pleasure to work with this dedicated group of people. Ms. Bowman thanked all Committee members for their hard work on this project. Ms. Bowman stated that the Committee had paid particular attention to fine design details, such as the water feature.

Chairperson Bowman asked for public comment. Len Scannapieco of Scannapieco Development commended the Committee for a good plan. He asked if the park was designed to allow for art shows and exhibits. Dee Dee Bowman assured Mr. Scannapieco that one of the primary goals of the Committee is that the design be “art friendly” and that all types of activities are possible, including poetry, children’s art, dance, etc. Mr. Stone stated that art could be placed at any location in the park. Mr. Scannapieco also asked about ownership of the land beyond the east boundary fence line. Evan Stone replied that the land beyond the fence is owned by the railroad and that any attempt to enhance this area would require the cooperation of the railroad. Roy Ziegler stated that the north entrance to the park evolved over time from closed to open on special occasions in order to accommodate the needs of art exhibits.

Les Sodorow of ArtsBridge asked the Committee to consider a Petanque court. He stated that the minimum dimensions would be 9 ft. wide by 35 ft. in length and that such a facility would foster a spirit of community in New Hope. Charles Huchet stated that the Committee would consider this request, but also stated that he would be concerned about the impact of such a facility upon the rest of the park, i.e., its impact upon the contemplative aspects of the park. Dee Dee Bowman stated that Petanque would be an asset to the community, but stated that the court would be too large and might not work. Sharyn Keiser stated that the Committee originally looked at the option of a Bocce court, which is larger, more intrusive, and may attract leagues from outside the community.

Joel Vitar stated that Petanque would be a fun activity and would attract people to the park and encourage interaction. He suggested that a Petanque Club could be started in the Borough. Bob Bowman stated that he supports a Petanque court at the park.

David Newhart stated that the school district has plenty of open land and could provide facilities for Petanque. Roy Ziegler suggested that an area could be set aside at the school or at the Canal Walk Project to provide space for Petanque. Petanque presents ADA issues at the park, as well as safety issues such as tripping accidents. Dee Dee Bowman stated that the Committee has discussed Bocce or Petanque at almost every public meeting over the last year. Evan Stone stated that everyone supports Bocce, but that there are better locations in the Borough for this activity. Mr. Stone also stated that the consensus of the Committee was that it is an appropriate use, but not at this site because of ADA and other issues.

Les Sodorow stated that other towns have found ways to incorporate Bocce into pocket parks. He stated that Ferry Street is accessible to people living downtown in the Borough. Sharyn Keiser stated that it would only be an additional block and one-half distance if we are able to incorporate a Bocce court at the Canal Walk Project.

Chuck Tarr expressed support for the plan recommended by the Committee and added that the railroad land adjacent to the park requires attention.

Geri Delevich stated that the plan is gorgeous and that she is happy that it incorporates the arts. Ms. Delevich, however, expressed concern that the plan does not provide an attraction for people to use the park. She suggested that the park should be designed to bring generations together. Petanque would provide an activity that would swerve to bring people together so that people can meet, establish friendships, and share common interests.

Bob Bowman stated that the park gives a feeling of confinement because of the fences. It is a confined, closed space. Dee Dee Bowman replied that there are fences to keep people out late at night because this is a residential area. Joanne Baer stated that the Committee originally discussed a walk through park, but was soon convinced that traffic on Bridge Street, especially on weekends, was dangerous and would present hazards to park patrons. Dee Dee Bowman stated that the Bridge Street end of the park would be open on special occasions only, e.g., the Arts and Crafts festival. Sharyn Keiser stated that the railroad crossing is a safety issue.

Joel Vitar asked if dogs would be permitted in the park. Dee Dee Bowman replied that Council would decide this matter. Geri Delevich asked why the Borough does not close the Ferry Landing Park at night. She stated that it might be dangerous for someone to be trapped in the park at night. Evan Stone stated that the fence would be no more than 5 ft. in height and that it would be an open fence to allow visual connectivity with the surrounding area. He stated that a patrolman would be able to see into the park at night and that the intent is not to wall in the park.

Geri Delevich asked if estimated annual maintenance costs would be presented to Council. Dee Dee Bowman stated that the Committee is working on estimated annual operating costs.

Earl Bierman announced that a town clock was erected at the Visitors’ Center today.

The Committee members discussed the issue of a Petanque court at the park and instructed Evan Stone to prepare an alternate plan showing an enlarged, irregular, elliptical amphitheater area that might be used for Petanque, provided that this does not compromise the design of the park. Evan Stone suggested that the proposed stone surface at this location could be a multi-purpose area and that he would look at expanding this area on the plan.

Charles Huchet moved to approve the minutes of the Committee’s August 24, 2006 public meting. Roy Ziegler seconded. The minutes were approved by a unanimous vote.

The Committee decided to cancel its regularly scheduled meeting of September 28th.

The next Committee meeting will be held on Thursday, October 26th.