Final Master Plan &

Final Environmental Impact Statement

Black

TrailDiamond

Buttermilk Falls State Park

Allan H. Treman State Marine Park Taughannock Falls State Park

Linking

The Pathway

State Parks

Robert H. Treman State Park

David A. PatersonGovernor

Carol AshCommissioner

July 2008

Acknowledgements

The Black Diamond Trail Final Master Plan/Environmental Impact Statement is a product of many years of collaborative work. The version of the multi-use, multi-purpose trail presented in the following document encompasses three decades of effort and talent from State Parks staff and community leaders and planners in the City of Ithaca, Town of Ithaca and Tompkins County. The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) would like to acknowledge and thank the contributors to the project, many of whom are now enjoying their retirement years.

Carol Ash, CommissionerNew York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Andy Beers, Executive Deputy CommissionerNew York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Erik Kulleseid, Deputy Commissioner for Open Space ProtectionNew York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Daniel S. Kane, Deputy Commissioner for OperationsNew York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Tim Joseph, Regional DirectorNew York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic PreservationFinger Lakes Region

OPRHP Planning Team Members

Finger Lakes Region StaffJeffrey McDonald, Capital Facilities Manager

Sue A. Poelvoorde, Senior Natural Resources Planner

Albany Office StaffRobert Reinhardt, Director of Planning

Thomas Lyons, Director of Resource ManagementJanet Zuckerman, Associate Environmental Analyst

ConsultantsLarsen Engineers

Northeast GreenwaysGreg Potter

Final Master Plan/Final Environmental Impact Statement

For

Black Diamond TrailTown of Ithaca, City of Ithaca, Town of Ulysses

Tompkins County, New York State

Prepared byNew York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Completed: July 9, 2008

Contact: Tim Jospeh Regional Director Finger Lakes State Parks Region 2221 Taughannock Park Road Trumansburg, New York 14886 (607) 387-7041 Fax: (607) 387-3390 E-mail: Tim Joseph@oprhp.state.ny.us

Thomas Lyons Director of Resource Management New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Empire State Plaza Agency Building 1 Albany, New York 12238 (518) 474-0409 Fax: (518) 474-7013 E-mail: Thomas.Lyons@oprhp.state.ny.us

Black

TrailDiamond

Photo Credits

Rick Manning, Northeast GreenwaysAnthony Ingraham

Finger Lakes State Parks Region

Table of Contents

EXECUTIVE SUMMMARY ................................................................................................................. ES-i

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE FINAL MASTER PLAN/ENVIRONMENTALIMPACT STATEMENT ......................................................................................................................... QA-i

CHAPTER I - INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................... I-1Background ........................................................................................................................................ I-1The Planning Process ......................................................................................................................... I-3Plan Content ....................................................................................................................................... I-4

CHAPTER II - GUIDING PRINCIPLES ............................................................................................ II-7New York State Programs and Policies .............................................................................................. II-7Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Mission Statement and Guiding Principles .. II-7Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan ......................................................................... II-8Regional and Local Initiatives ............................................................................................................ II-9Black Diamond Trail Goals and Objectives ....................................................................................... II-10

CHAPTER III - ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING AND EXISTING CONDITIONS ...................... III-11Regional Setting ................................................................................................................................. III-11

Location ........................................................................................................................................... III-11Physical Characteristics of the Region ............................................................................................ III-11Access .............................................................................................................................................. III-13Recreational Opportunities .............................................................................................................. III-13Statewide Trail and Greenway Systems .......................................................................................... III-13

Local Setting ....................................................................................................................................... III-15Study Area Boundaries .................................................................................................................... III-15Land Use .......................................................................................................................................... III-15Land Ownership ............................................................................................................................... III-15Landscape Resources ....................................................................................................................... III-16Hydrologic Resources ...................................................................................................................... III-17Biological Resources ....................................................................................................................... III-18Historical/Cultural Resources .......................................................................................................... III-20Agricultural Resources .................................................................................................................... III-22Scenic Features ................................................................................................................................ III-22Recreational Features ....................................................................................................................... III-23Community Character ..................................................................................................................... III-25Transportation System ..................................................................................................................... III-27Infrastructure .................................................................................................................................... III-28Emergency/Public Services ............................................................................................................. III-31

CHAPTER IV - ANALYSIS AND ALTERNATIVES.......................................................................... IV-33Resource Analysis .............................................................................................................................. IV-33

The Natural Landscape .................................................................................................................... IV-33The Cultural Landscape ................................................................................................................... IV-36

Trail Alternatives ................................................................................................................................ IV-39Park Land Classification .................................................................................................................. IV-41Trail Location................................................................................................................................... IV-42Treadway Surface Treatment ........................................................................................................... IV-44Recreational and Travel Mode Options ........................................................................................... IV-44Treadway Width ............................................................................................................................... IV-44Support Amenities ........................................................................................................................... IV-45Access .............................................................................................................................................. IV-45Spur Trails......................................................................................................................................... IV-45Alternatives by Trail Segment ......................................................................................................... IV-45

CHAPTER V - DRAFT TRAIL MASTER PLAN ............................................................................... V-51Design Criteria ................................................................................................................................... V-51Trail Plan ............................................................................................................................................ V-51

Standard Trail Construction Treatments .......................................................................................... V-51Trail Corridor ................................................................................................................................... V-51

Figures MP-1 & MP-2 SP 0+000 to 12+300 Robert H. Treman State Park to Buttermilk Falls State Park ........................................................................................................... V-52Figures MP-2 & MP-3, SP 12+300 to 23+000 Buttermilk Falls State Park to Allan H. TremanState Marine Park/Cass Park ......................................................................................................... V-67Figures MP-3 to MP-6, SP 23+000 to SP 67+500 Allan H. Treman State Marine Park/Cass Park to Taughannock Falls State Park .................................................................................. V-79

Operation, Management and Maintenance ......................................................................................... V-105Ownership of Trail Facilities ........................................................................................................... V-105Management .................................................................................................................................... V-106Operation ......................................................................................................................................... V-106Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................... V-109Staffing ............................................................................................................................................. V-109Equipment ........................................................................................................................................ V-109Land Acquisition .............................................................................................................................. V-109

Implementation ................................................................................................................................... V-110Cost Estimate ...................................................................................................................................... V-110

Funding Sources .............................................................................................................................. V-110Relationship to Other Programs ......................................................................................................... V-112

CHAPTER VI - ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS ............................................................. V-123Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ V-123Impacts of Alternatives ....................................................................................................................... V-123

Status Quo Alternative ..................................................................................................................... V-123Preferred Draft Master Plan Alternative .......................................................................................... V-124Unavoidable Adverse Effects ........................................................................................................... V-127Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Resources .............................................................. V-127Growth Inducement ......................................................................................................................... V-127Supplemental Environmental Review ............................................................................................. V-127

CHAPTER VI - COMMENTS AND RESPONSES ............................................................................ V-129Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ V-129 Response to Comments ...................................................................................................................... V-129Persons/Organizations Who Provided Comments .............................................................................. V-141

BIBLIOGRAPHY

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

APPENDIXAppendix A - Tri-partite Agreement, Joint Development Project for a Multi-Use Recreational and Public Works Corridor at Ithaca, New York

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

Figures and Tables

Figures

I-1New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Master Plan Process

I-5

III-2 Finger Lakes State Parks Region III-12

III-3 Proposed Black Diamond Trail Study Area III-14

III-4Proposed Black Diamond Trail Community Recreational & Cultural Resources Accessible from the Trail

III-26

MP-1 Master Plan, Robert H. Treman State Park to Buttermilk Falls State Park V-61

MP-2 Master Plan, Buttermilk Falls State Park to Allan H. Treman State Marine Park V-62

V-5 Robert H. Treman State Park Enlargement V-63

V-6 Buttermilk Falls State Park Enlargement V-64

V-7 Buttermilk Falls State Park - Trailhead and Road Crossings V-65

V-8 Southwest Natural Area V-70

V-9 Allan H. Treman State Marine Park Spur/Cayuga Waterfront Trail V-74

MP-2 Master Plan, Buttermilk Falls State Park to Allan H. Treman State Marine Park V-75

MP-3 Master Plan, Allan H. Treman State Marine Park to Taughannock Falls State Park V-76

V-10 Trailhead at Cass Park V-77

V-11 Typical Trail Overlook V-83

V-12 Trail Intersection at Willow Creek Road V-91

MP-3 Master Plan, Allan H. Treman State Marine Park to Taughannock Falls State Park V-95

MP-4 Master Plan, Allan H. Treman State Marine Park to Taughannock Falls State Park V-96

MP-5 Master Plan, Allan H. Treman State Marine Park to Taughannock Falls State Park V-97

MP-6 Master Plan, Allan H. Treman State Marine Park to Taughannock Falls State Park V-98

V-13 Cayuga Nature Center Enlargement V-99

V-14 Cayuga Nature Center Trailhead V-100

V-15 Taughannock Falls State Park Enlargement V-101

V-16 Trailhead at Taughannock Falls State Park V-102

V-17 Spur Trail to Trumansburg, Grove Cemetery Enlargement V-103

V-18 Treadway Cross Sections V-115

V-19 Typical Trail Sections V-116

V-20 Typical Intersection Treatment V-117

V-21 Proposed Gate for Trail/Road Intersections V-118

V-22 Screening Techniques for Adjacent Properties V-119

V-23 Kiosk and Interpretative Sign Designs V-120

V-24 Trail Signage V-121

Figures - contd.

TAbles

III-1 State Park Monthly Attendance, May to September, 2006 III-25

IV-2 Resource Sensitivity Issues by Trail Segment IV40

IV-3 Trail Development Alternatives IV-46

IV-4 Robert H. Treman to Buttermilk Falls State Park Trail Alternatives IV-47

IV-5Buttermilk Falls to Allan H. Treman State Park and Cass Park Trail Alternatives

IV-48

IV-6 Allan H. Treman to Taughannock Falls State Park Trail Alternatives IV-49

VI-7 Ground Surface Changes VI-123

QA-i

Questions and Answers About This Final Master Plan

and Final Environmental Impact Statement

WHAT IS THE ACTION?

The action is the adoption and implementation of a Master Plan for the Black Diamond Trail.

WHO IS PROPOSING TO DO THIS?

The Commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is proposing the action.

WHY WAS THIS REPORT WRITTEN?

This Final Master Plan/Environmental Impact Statement was written to provide direction to OPRHP staff on the development, operation and maintenance of the Black Diamond Trail. Making the plan publicly available gives the opportunity for individuals, organizations and other government agencies to participate in the development of the Black Diamond Trail.

HOW MUCH OPPORTUNITY HAS THERE BEEN FOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION?

The trail project has been the subject of three public information and scoping meetings to gather information, concerns and issues surrounding the development and management of the multi-use, multi-purpose trail. Meetings were also held with special interest groups and adjacent property owners to refine specific issues to help guide trail development options. The project also has been discussed during several other planning initiatives completed or underway in Tompkins County, New York.

The draft master plan was released for public review on November 21, 2007. Two public workshops and hearings on the draft plan were held on December 5 and 6, 2007, offering the public an opportunity to provide oral and written comments on the proposed trail project. The comment period was extended to January 15, 2008, in recognition that the plan was released in the midst of the 2007 holiday season.

HOW SHOULD THIS REPORT BE REVIEWED?

The report can be read from cover to cover or one may concentrate on particular areas of interest. Refer to the Table of Contents to locate topic-specific information.

WHAT HAS THE COMMISSIONER DECIDED?

Commissioner Ash has decided that a Master Plan/Environmental Impact Statement is necessary to guide the development and management of the Black Diamond Trail. At this time, the Commissioner also has

QA-ii

decided that the final plan be made available for public consideration. She has not made any decision regarding the adoption of the Master Plan/Environmental Impact Statement.

HOW CAN SOMEONE COMMENT ON THE PLAN?

People who wish to comment on this plan may write or call:

Tim Joseph, Regional DirectorFinger Lakes State Parks Region2221 Taughannock Park RoadTrumansburg, New York 14886Telephone: (607) 387-7041FAX: (607) 387-3390E-mail: Tim.Joseph@oprhp.state.ny.us

Thomas LyonsDirector of Resource ManagementNew York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic PreservationEmpire State PlazaAgency Building 1Albany, New York 12238Phone: (518) 474-0409FAX: (518) 474-4492E-mail: Thomas.Lyons@oprhp.state.ny.us

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

The Final Master Plan/Final Environmental Impact Statement is subject to a 10-day review period for agencies and the public to consider this document. Commissioner Ash then issues a statement of findings, which describes the Action being taken and description of the basis for her decision.

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executive summary

IntroductIon

Increasing gasoline prices, long-term health concerns associated with obesity and diabetes, and concerns about the quality-of-life values in communities have local, state and federal government and private business leaders looking to innovative ways to tackle these issues. Among the many alternatives to respond to the issues, communities across the country are developing networks of pedestrian and bicycle dedicated facilities that provide residents and visitors with enjoyable alternative ways to move through and between their communities to multiple trip destinations.

Within Tompkins County, New York, initiatives to move toward a trail network that would lessen the dependence on the private automobile and provide a resource to improve the health and quality of life of area residents have been discussed and worked on for two to three decades. The Black Diamond Trail is one such project. Conceived in the early 1970s, a project to build a multi-use recreational trail linking a complex of four state parks and city-owned recreation and cultural resources earned support by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), the City of Ithaca, the Towns of Ithaca and Ulysses and

Tompkins County throughout the later twentieth century. But, for thirty years the project languished, lacking sustained funding to support planning, acquisition and construction of the trail.

In the early 1990s, following a shift in the national consciousness toward transportation and health issues, the federal government authorized the Federal Highway Administration to make transportation funds available to improve and provide pedestrian and bicycle dedicated infrastructure in the nations transportation system. With the infusion of federal funding assistance, communities took a whole new look at some of the former recreational-based trail systems they had been planning over the years and recognized the opportunities these same projects afforded to provide and encourage residents and visitors to select alternate ways to reach multiple trip-generating destinations in their communities while enjoying the outdoors and getting needed exercise.

With a renewed sense of purpose for the project, OPRHP, along with partners from Tompkins County, the City of Ithaca, and the Towns of Ithaca and Ulysses, is ready to commit resources to move the Black Diamond Trail project forward and make the trail a reality.

The Black Diamond Trail is a 15-mile, off-road pedestrian and bicycle dedicated trail facility proposed for Tompkins County, New York. The trail will provide residents and visitors with an alternate way to travel to several destinations in the county including the four major State Parks and many other popular community destinations in the City of Ithaca and the Towns of Ithaca and Ulysses. The trails setting includes stream bottomlands, the urban setting of the City of Ithaca and pastoral rural lands.

The following sections provide a concise summary of the master plan document developed to guide construction and operation of the Black Diamond Trail. Sections include information on guiding principles, environmental setting, trail facility alternatives, environmental impacts and the preferred development plan.

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GuIdInG PrIncIPlES

Since the projects conception, the overriding objective for the Black Diamond Trail is to develop an off-road, multi-use, multi-purpose trail facility connecting the four major State Park facilities in Tompkins County to neighborhoods and communities and other major trip destinations. The design and operation of the trail is intended to encourage people with all levels of ability and skill to travel to or visit the many popular destinations in Tompkins County by bicycle or foot, particularly being able to access all four major State Park facilities in the county.

Federal, state and local governments, not-for-profits and private entities are including multi-use, multi-purpose trail facility planning into their regional and community planning and development projects, goals and objectives, action strategies and visions. Funding from a variety of programs is also being committed to build and promote use of pedestrian and bicycle dedicated facilities.

Guiding the development of the Black Diamond Trail, first and foremost, is OPRHPs mission to provide safe and enjoyable recreational and interpretive opportunities for the states residents and visitors and to be a responsible steward of the valuable natural, historic and cultural resources that make up the state park and historic site system.

In addition to OPRHPs mission, a number of state and local planning initiatives were consulted to develop goals and supporting objectives for the Black Diamond Trail. These will help to guide the project through the planning, development and operation steps. The following are the goals for the trail:

Increase opportunities for trail-based recreation and multi-modal transportation options in the Finger Lakes Region in general, and Tompkins County in particular.

Protect, enhance and interpret the scenic, natural and cultural resources of the trail corridor.

Develop the trail in a manner that promotes a safe, high-quality, diversified recreational experience and alternate transportation choice.

Minimize and/or mitigate, as practical, impacts on adjacent landowners.

EnvIronmEntal SEttInG

The Black Diamond Trail will be located in the Town of Ithaca, City of Ithaca and Town of Ulysses in Tompkins County within the Finger Lakes State Parks Region of New York State. The trail is projected to be 15 miles in length, encompassed by 226 acres of public land, connecting the four major state parks in Tompkins County Robert H. Treman State Park, Buttermilk Falls State Park, Allan H. Treman State Marine Park and Taughannock Falls State Park as well as the population centers of Ithaca and Trumansburg.

Town of Ulysses

Town ofIthaca

Town of Lansing

Town of Enfield

Village ofTrumansburg

City ofIthaca

C

AYUG

ALA

KE

N .Y. S. Route 96

N.Y.S. Route 13

R oute

13

N.Y.S. Route 89

Taughannock FallsState Park

Buttermilk FallsState Park

Robert H. TremanState Park

Allan H. TremanState Marine Park

BLACKDIAMONDTRAIL

Proposed Route of the Black Diamond Trail

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The setting of the trail includes three different landscapes. The trail segment connecting Robert H. Treman to Buttermilk Falls will pass through the Cayuga Inlet stream valley. The trail segment connecting Buttermilk Falls and Allan H. Treman State Marine Park will follow a former railroad corridor and the banks of the Cayuga Inlet Flood Control Channel through the City of Ithaca. The trail skirts retail, industrial park and park areas. The longest segment of the trail, connecting Allan H. Treman to Taughannock Falls, is the rail-to-trail component of the project. This segment of the trail will follow the route of the former Lehigh Valley Railroad line, where the sleek locomotive the Black Diamond hauled people and freight between downstate and upstate New York, through pastoral farmland and rural residential surroundings.

The distinctive landscape of the glacially-carved Cayuga Lake valley provides a variety of natural and cultural settings for the Black Diamond Trail. The trail connecting Robert H. Treman to Buttermilk Falls will meander down the Cayuga Inlet valley, paralleling the stream as it winds its way north to Cayuga Lake. The bottomlands are lush with regenerating floodplain forest vegetation and wildlife, dotted with small pockets of wetlands. Much of the area had been farmed in the early nineteenth and twentieth centuries and likely provided sustenance for Native American peoples who settled the area prior to European immigration settlement.

From Buttermilk Falls to Allan H. Treman the trail starts out paralleling the Cayuga Inlet stream in a floodplain forest setting before crossing the stream on abandoned railroad corridor and entering into the urbanized area of Ithaca. Within the city, the trail will parallel the Cayuga Inlet Flood Control Channel, passing west of the developing Southwest Area with its new retail complex and future residential neighborhood and the Cherry Street Industrial Park. After crossing the flood control channel, the trail will enter the City of Ithacas Cass Park, which includes ball fields, swimming pool and enclosed court sports and ice rink facility. The City of Ithacas Cayuga Waterfront Trail will provide the link to Allan H. Treman State Marine Park.

Leaving the park setting, the trail segment connecting Allan H. Treman/Cass Park to Taughannock Falls will follow the old Lehigh Valley Railroad line that formerly connected the cities of Ithaca and Geneva, which is located at the north end of Seneca Lake. The landscape along the old rail line varies starting with a towering canopy of maple, hemlock, oak and hickory trees, then transitioning to open agricultural fields, abandoned agricultural lands in reversion and rural residential land uses.

Cayuga Inlet Creek between Robert H. Treman and Buttermilk Falls State Parks

Cayuga Inlet Flood Control Channel through the west side of the City of Ithaca

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Water resources within the trails landscape range in size and scale, including the 40-mile-long Cayuga Lake, the meandering Cayuga Inlet, pocket wetlands and vernal pools less than an acre in size, hillside streams and the 300-foot-high Taughannock Creek gorge.

In addition to providing a connection to the four major state park facilities in Tompkins County, with their campgrounds, swim areas, picnic grounds and hiking trails; the Black Diamond Trail will also provide an off-road trail alternative to access neighborhoods and parks in the City of Ithaca, residences and businesses in the Town of Ithaca, the Cayuga Nature Center in the Town of Ulysses and residences and businesses in the Town of Ulysses.

The trail will take advantage of the abandoned rail line with its remnant features, recycling them for their use to support the trail construction, and investments made by local municipalities that built infrastructure to support an off-road trail network.

analySIS and altErnatIvES

As a long-standing project, investments of state and local funds have occurred through the years that laid the groundwork for the Black Diamond Trail as it is proposed in this plan. As a result, the scope of alternatives is narrowed from what they might be if the project were just getting underway today. The objective to link the major state park facilities in Tompkins County focuses the physical location

of the trail to a defined area within the county, also limiting the alternatives. With the trail corridor defined, a focused look at the natural and cultural resources within the area provides the information about what resources could be impacted by the trail development.

analyss of resources

Within this focused project area, alternatives must be proposed that consider the natural and cultural resources sensitive to change. Resources are also considered with respect to how they will enhance the experience of the trail user.

On the natural resources side, two rare plants (Kentucky coffee tree (Gymnocladus dioica) and green dragon (Arisaema dracontium)) and two rare animal species (tawny emperor butterfly (Asterocampa clyton) and bog turtle (Clemmys muhlengergii)) were reported to be living within the trail study area. A field survey for the plant species identified the exact locations of the populations.

Field reports compiled by the Natural Heritage Program were consulted to identify the latest sighting of the butterfly and turtle species noted of concern. The tawny emperor butterfly was last reported seen in and near the trail study area as recently as 1993. It is expected to still be present in the area. The bog turtle has not been seen since 1940 and is not expected to be found in the trail study area due to the dramatic change that has occurred to its preferred habitat.

Portions of the trail corridor will pass through locally unique ecological communities, including floodplain forest and wetlands. In the 1880s, both of these habitat types covered significantly larger acreages in the bottomlands of the Cayuga Inlet valley south of the present-day City of Ithaca. These were destroyed to make way for agricultural use and the expanding urban population of Ithaca. The remnants are important to the biodiversity of the area. Public acquisition of the remnant areas, along with additional acreage adjoining them, provides an opportunity to protect and expand the total acreage of these locally unique habitats.

Abandoned railroad corridor berween Allan H. Treman and Taughannock Falls State Parks

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Development of the Black Diamond Trail will consider the impacts on all of the natural resources identified above and construction and operation impacts will be avoided or mitigated to the greatest extent practical by using construction techniques and materials that suit the landscape and by instituting operation and maintenance practices that protect the resources.

Cultural resources including archaeological, historical and present-day resources (e.g. recreation, scenic) are located within the trail study area. Additional field work involving ground testing will be required before trail construction that links Robert H. Treman State Park to Buttermilk Falls State Park may proceed due to the high sensitivity/potential for pre-historic occupation of the area. Other cultural resources will contribute to the educational/interpretive opportunities that will make the trail more interesting for users.

Re-use of the former Lehigh Valley Railroad corridor between Allan H. Treman State Marine Park and Taughannock Falls State Park will alter the surroundings of the rural residential properties along the old rail line. After 40 years of little to no use, the property will once again become a traveled way. Where houses sit relatively close to the trail corridor, adjacent neighbors expressed concern about losing their privacy and having trail users trespass on their property seeking assistance or directions. The concerns of the trails neighbors are important to address and several options are available for working with the owners.

alternatves

Features provided by the Black Diamond Trail will focus on trail-based recreation and transportation opportunities. As noted previously, decisions followed by actions committing resources and funding to trail infrastructure have narrowed the location of the Black Diamond Trail to a specified corridor, thereby limiting alternatives for the trails location. Alternatives for who will be accommodated on the trail, how it will be used and what support amenities should be provided are open to the full spectrum of options to explore.

The table on the following page, provides a list of the options considered for the Black Diamond Trail and the proposed preferred option for each of the three trail segments.

thE maStEr Plan

Figures MP-1 to MP-6, on the pages ES-xi to ES-xvi, illustrate the master plan for the Black Diamond Trail. The trail follows construction and operation recommendations provided by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), Architectural & Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Americans with Disabilities Act oversight group), New York State Department of Transportation and the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy.

Standard construction treatments for trail amenities are developed to address surface construction for asphalt and compacted limestone dust surfaces, vertical and horizontal safety clearances, trail/road intersection treatments including gates, bollards and traffic warning signage, privacy separation treatments between trail and residential areas, and orientation and interpretive signage.

robert h. treman State Park to Buttermlk Falls State Park

This trail segment will follow the course of the Cayuga Inlet as it winds its way north to Cayuga Lake. The trail will pass through abandoned agricultural lands and floodplain forest. The compacted limestone dust trail surface was selected for this trail segment to maintain the aesthetic associated with abandoned farm roads located in the area and to fit the landscape of floodplain vegetation and future stream flood events.

This segment provides a wealth of interpretive opportunities to share information about watersheds, wetlands and stream dynamics and is a premier spot for birding.

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Segment 1 Segment 2 Segment 3

AlternativesRobert H. Treman to Buttermilk Falls

Buttermilk Falls to Allan H. Treman

Allan H. Treman to Taughannock Falls

ClassificationParks and Land Resources - Recreation ParkLinear Systems - Recreationway X X X

Trail LocationWithin or adjacent to highway/road rights of way

Separate from highway/road rights of way X X XTreadway Surface TreatmentCompacted stone and stonedust X XAsphalt X XConcrete

Boardwalk or fabricated surfaces

Recreational and Travel Mode OptionsWalking, jogging X X XBicycling X X X

In-line skating, in-line skiing, skateboarding X

Horseback riding XCross-country skiing, snowshoeing X X X

Snowmobiles - limited X

Treadway WidthSingle-purpose trails - 6 feet to 14 feet wide

Multiple-purpose trails - 10 feet to 14 feet wide X X XSupport AmenitiesBathrooms X X XBenches X X XPicnic tables X X XSigns - Interpretive X X XSigns - Orientation X X XBicycle racks or lockers X X XSafety gates and bollards X X XFencing and gates X X XVehicle parking X X XAccessPrimary X X XSecondary X X XSpur TrailsWithin state parks X X XTo adjacent destinations (services, neighborhoods) X X X

Trail Development Alternatives

ES-v

Buttermlk Falls State Park to allan h. treman State marne Park

The majority of this trail segment will pass through the urbanized west side of the City of Ithaca, following the Cayuga Inlet and Cayuga Inlet Flood Control Channel. This trail segment is expected to receive high use and as such an asphalt surface is recommended for the entire length. The trail intersects with the City of Ithacas Cayuga Waterfront Trail in Cass Park, a city park. The Cayuga Waterfront Trail provides the Black Diamond Trail user with the link to Allan H. Treman State Marine Park.

The trail will provide City residents in the West Hill and West End neighborhoods with an alternate transportation option to reach the developing Southwest retail area.

allan h. treman State marne Park to taughannock Falls State Park

This approximately 8.5-mile trail segment is the rail-to-trail component of the Black Diamond Trail. From Ithaca, the trail follows the abandoned line of the Lehigh Valley Railroad that served the area from 1889 to 1959. The trail will be surfaced with compacted limestone dust in keeping with the aesthetics of the railroad corridor and the rural setting that the trail passes through on its way to Taughannock Falls State Park.

The trail will provide an alternate transportation link to the City of Ithaca for many rural residents and provides urban residents with an alternative to reach the Cayuga Nature Center and Taughannock Falls State Park, along with other area businesses in the Town of Ulysses.

operatons, management and mantenance

The Black Diamond Trail is a project that began its journey back in the early 1970s. Along the way, partnerships developed between OPRHP and local municipalities to move the trail project to construction. The partnership between OPRHP, the City of Ithaca and the Town of Ithaca was

spelled out in a tripartite agreement signed in 1983. The partnership means that the development and operation of the Black Diamond Trail will need to be coordinated with the local municipalities. Though not included in the 1983 agreement, the Town of Ulysses will likely also become a partner in the project.

Operation of the trail will be governed by both the statutory rules and regulations of OPRHP and operating rules specific to the trail facility as an alternative transportation facility and a recreational trail. This dual function is unique to the facility, differing from the existing trail systems in each of the state park facilities in Tompkins County that solely serve as recreational trail opportunities for hiking.

Trail maintenance will be accomplished by the trail partners along with the support of volunteers. Service groups will be encouraged to assist in maintaining the trail infrastructure. OPRHP will also encourage interested residents to form a not-for-profit Friends group to help support and promote the trail.

relatonshp to other Programs

The construction and operation of the Black Diamond Trail will require coordinating and cooperating with other agencies and entities to ensure that the trail contributes positively to the residents and visitors of Tompkins County. Included in the partnership are: New York State Electric and Gas Corporation, City of Ithaca, Town of Ithaca, Town of Ulysses, Ithaca/Tompkins County Transportation Council, New York State Department of Transportation, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Cayuga Nature Center, Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway, Inc., and the Erie Canal National Heritage Corridor.

Within Tompkins County, regional and local initiatives that support the development of the Black Diamond Trail include the Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway, Tompkins County Local Waterfront Redevelopment Plan, Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council Long Range Transportation

ES-v

Plan, Town of Ithaca Park, Recreation and Open Space Plan, City of Ithaca Cayuga Waterfront Trail, City of Ithaca Southwest Natural Area Master Plan, Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan, the Village of Trumansburg Comprehensive Plan, Tompkins County Comprehensive Plan along with other planning initiatives in process.

Implementaton

The Black Diamond Trail consists of three segments. While each segment can exist independently, together they provide a network of trails that connect a significant number of trip destinations in Tompkins County. OPRHP will progress construction of the 15-mile, multi-use, multi-purpose trail in phases. The intended order of the phased construction is as follows.

Phase One: Allan H. Treman State Marine Park/Cass Park to Taughannock Falls State Park

Phase Two: Buttermilk Falls State Park to Allan H. Treman State Marine Park/Cass Park

Phase Three: Robert H. Treman State Park to Buttermilk Falls State Park

Phase One of the project is estimated to cost in the range of $3.9 million; Phase Two is estimated to cost $7.8 million; and Phase Three is estimated to cost $2.6 million. These are rough estimates intended to provide a general scale of the cost of the project. Actual construction costs will be refined as construction activities progress for each trail segment.

The Master Plan identifies a number of state, federal, local government funding sources that are potentially available to support the project. However, formal funding commitments will need to be secured before construction of the first phase can begin.

Trail construction will progress as funding is available. OPRHPs current plan is to break ground on Phase One Allan H. Treman to Taughannock Falls in 2009. If the necessary funding commitments are secured in a timely manner, Phase

One is projected to require 5 to 7 years to complete. The timeline to complete construction of Phases Two and Three will depend on a number of factors, including the availability of funding and acquisition of the remaining parcels needed for the trail.

A further breakdown of each phase to progress construction may be explored if funding ceilings limit completing an entire phase. A shorter segment may be considered only if it results in completing a section of trail that links trip destinations.

EnvIronmEntal ImPactS

Development and operation of the Black Diamond Trail will result in short- and long-term changes to the physical and cultural environment of the area proposed to host the trail. Both positive and adverse impacts are expected with implementing the trail master plan. The adverse impacts that will occur are expected to be low to moderate and will be mitigated by following best-practices for construction and operation.

alternatves and mtgaton

The impetus behind pursuing the Black Diamond Trail project over the past 30 years has been to develop an off-road bicycle and pedestrian dedicated trail facility for residents and visitors of Tompkins County, New York with a focus on connecting the four major State Park facilities in the county to neighborhoods and communities and other major trip destinations. The specific nature of this trail proposal narrows the number of alternatives explored through the trail planning process, resulting in two primary options Status Quo and Preferred Master Plan.

The Status Quo option consists of the current situation, which is no off-road, bicycle and pedestrian dedicated facility. While no new additional environmental impacts would result from this alternative, the issues that trail development will address would still remain. The primary issues include a need to: develop a multi-modal transportation system, increase opportunities for people to pursue recreational trail activities that will allow them to improve their physical and mental

ES-x

health, reduce air pollution from motorized vehicle emissions, and improve the overall quality of life of residents in the Tompkins County area.

In addition, approximately 226 acres of private land, containing locally significant ecological communities that are needed for this project, will not be permanently protected by New York State ownership.

The Preferred Master Plan option for the trail, as illustrated on Figures MP-1 to MP-6, on pages ES -xi to ES - xvi, is a combination of design elements recommended by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), Architectural & Transportation Barriers Compliance Board, New York State Department of Transportation and Rails-to-Trails Conservancy for multi-use, multi-purpose trail facilities.

Environmental impacts and mitigation as part of the proposed trail development includes the following.

The Natural Landscape

Flora and FaunaThe permanent conversion of ground cover from vegetation to trail surfacing that includes compacted limestone dust and asphalt is the most evident adverse impact of the trail development. Over the course of the 15 miles of trail area, approximately 16.3 acres of vegetation will be removed and converted to trail surface. Of the 16.3 acres, only 3.9 acres will be converted to an impervious asphalt surface.

The segment of trail between Robert H. Treman State Park and Buttermilk Falls State Park, which passes through the Cayuga Inlet corridor, is likely to be the most sensitive to the change. Careful on-site planning and siting of the trail in consultation with a botanist and DEC wetlands staff will mitigate the low to moderate impacts expected to occur. For the remaining two segments of the trail, the natural landscape includes abandoned railroad corridor and flood control channel areas that either consist of second-growth herbaceous or shrub species or cultivated grass.

In all three segment areas, invasive plant species are present. As a result of OPRHPs proposed acquisition and trail development of the properties, a positive impact will be the development and implementation of management plans that will reduce or eliminate invasive plants and improve the biodiversity of the existing ecological communities.

The removal of vegetation and the increase in human presence is expected to affect the avian category of wildlife most, particularly along the trail segment between Robert H. Treman and Buttermilk Falls in the Cayuga Inlet. This area has seen the least human presence since the mid-1900s, as agricultural lands have been abandoned. Re-introducing human activities into the area could impact bird species that are not accustomed to disturbances. To mitigate this impact, it is intended to acquire enough acreage that will allow siting the trail far enough away from the Cayuga Inlet and thickets of vegetation to protect bird habitat. In addition, new plantings will be considered that enhance the habitats for floodplain forest bird species.

Water ResourcesImpacts to the water resources within the corridor are expected to be minor. The conversion of vegetation ground cover to trail surface can be expected to result in a small increase in stormwater runoff. To mitigate the potential impact, OPRHP has selected surface treatments that have lower run-off rates and will install vegetation swales that slow the rate of flow and act as a water filter.

The Cultural Landscape

Archaeological ResourcesImpacts to archaeological resources over the course of the 15-mile trail corridor are expected to be low. Generally, no adverse impacts are expected and positive impacts associated with interpreting the history of the area will result from the trail development. Remnant railroad infrastructure will be incorporated into the trail design where feasible, thus allowing for railroad history interpretation.

The extent of the impacts on pre-historic resources within the trail corridor between Robert H. Treman

ES-x

and Buttermilk Falls are the least known and will be further explored before any construction proceeds in the area.

Agricultural and Community ResourcesWhile many positive impacts are expected to occur with the development of the trail, as identified earlier in this section, the active use of the trail corridor for transportation and recreation will result in adverse changes to the environment for people living along the trail, including residential and agricultural properties. The area that could experience the most change is along the trail segment linking Allan H. Treman State Marine Park to Taughannock Falls State Park. This trail segment will take advantage of the old Lehigh Valley Railroad corridor, which operated up to the late 1950s. Since that time, the corridor has seen little to no use other than that of adjacent property owners. The conversion back to an actively travelled corridor will mean that adjacent property owners will experience more people moving past their properties.

To mitigate the change, OPRHP will incorporate fencing, vegetation screens, property boundary postings and orientation and interpretive signage into the physical trail development. Through the operations plan, security staff will be assigned

to monitor activities on the trail. Also, OPRHP will encourage the establishment of a Friends of the Black Diamond Trail group involving local residents and service groups that can assist OPRHP in operating and maintaining the trail. All of these elements have proven to reduce impacts on adjacent properties.

Tax BaseAcquisition of property by New York State results in property being permanently removed from the local tax rolls. Communities rely on revenue from property taxes for social programs, physical infrastructure and public school systems. The acquisition of properties for the Black Diamond Trail have occurred in stages over time and as such have been absorbed by Tompkins County and the towns with low impact.

The municipalities that will host the Black Diamond Trail are supportive of the project for the benefits that are expected associated with transportation and health. Also, the trail is expected to contribute to the tourism appeal of the area, which could result in higher sales tax receipts that will help offset the reduction in property taxes.

ES-xi

8

ES-xii

8

ES-xiii

PROPOSED MAINTENANCE/

PERMISSION FROM CAYUGA MEDICAL CENTERREQUIRED.

8

ES-xiv

8

ES-xv

8

ES-xvi

8

I-

CHAPTER IINTRODUCTION

For over 30 years, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) has worked to develop a statewide trail system to serve the diverse interests of the recreating public. Along the way, the general public has come to appreciate components of the trail network as alternate ways to travel to and from home, work, school and social functions. These multi-use, multi-purpose trails have become community features valued for adding positively to the quality of life of residents and aiding in expanding transportation options.

The proposed Black Diamond Trail will expand trail and alternate transportation opportunities for residents and visitors of Tompkins County, New York. The following sections provide a background on the trail project and the process OPRHP followed to complete the plan that will guide construction, operation and maintenance of the Black Diamond Trail.

Background

During the early 1970s, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) stepped up trail planning and development efforts, in part, to take advantage of the availability of a number of recently abandoned railroad corridors. In the Finger Lakes State Parks Region several potential trail projects were explored.

In Tompkins County, Finger Lakes regional staff identified, in partnership with the City of Ithaca and Town of Ithaca, a preferred corridor for an off-road trail that would link together the two existing state parksRobert H. Treman and Buttermilk Fallswith the newly, under construction Allan H. Treman State Marine Park and the City of Ithacas Cass Park. The property recommended for the trail was surveyed and appraised. Lacking funds for land acquisition, progress on the trail project stalled.

Interest in the Tompkins County trail resurfaced in the early 1980s. Once again, the City and Town of Ithaca joined with the Finger Lakes Region to initiate a trail project. The three entities entered into a tripartite agreement to develop a multi-use

recreational and public works corridor. It was envisioned that the combined project would secure lands for future municipal water and sewer line upgrades while allowing the piggy-backing of a multi-purpose, off-road trail link to state, city and town recreational facilities. Several key parcels of land for the corridor between Allan H. Treman/Cass Park and Buttermilk Falls were secured by the City of Ithaca and OPRHP, with assistance from the Town of Ithaca.

Following the signing of the three-way agreement, discussions began within OPRHP to expand the scope of the trail project to include a trail link to the fourth major state park facility in the county, Taughannock Falls. The decision was made to expand the scope of the master plan for the multi-purpose off-road trail project to link the four major state park facilities in Tompkins CountyRobert H. Treman, Buttermilk Falls, Allan H. Treman and Taughannock Falls.

Through the mid to late 1980s potential trail corridors for the expanded trail project were identified, goals and objectives developed, public

I-

input solicited and natural and cultural resources sensitivity studies initiated. The lack of funding for corridor acquisition and trail construction continued to plague the progress of the project and the planning effort was once again suspended.

In the early 1990s, federal- and state-level policy and funding initiatives developed that would help move the trail project forward. In 1991, the Federal government passed landmark legislation, with funding, to support the transportation infrastructure in the country. The Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act, ISTEA, provided a source of funding for alternate transportation modes, including pedestrian and bicycle.

The Ithaca-Tompkins County Transportation Council (ITCTC), the local metropolitan transportation planning office for the City of Ithaca urban area, saw the State Parks trail project as a valued component for the Tompkins County areas multi-modal system. The ITCTC director contacted the Finger Lakes State Parks Region to encourage the agency to apply for federal funding. The Finger Lakes Regions application for ISTEA funding to complete the trail master plan, acquire trail corridor and start construction was successful. The Region was awarded $572,000.

In 1990, New York State governmental leaders responded to citizensgrowing concerns that the State lacked a clear direction and plan to preserve and protect important natural and cultural resources. By 1992, the States first Open Space Conservation Plan (OSP) was completed. The Finger Lakes Regions trail project, called the Cayuga Inlet Trail at the time, was identified in the plan as a priority land acquisition project. Funding to implement land acquisition projects identified in the OSP came from two sourcesthe 1993 Environmental Protection Fund and the 1996 Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act.

With the three funding sources available, the Finger Lakes Region returned to work on trail planning and land acquisition. The land acquisition component was progressed under the ISTEA and Open Space Plan funding processes. Several properties in the corridor identified and studied in

earlier planning efforts were acquired from willing sellers with 1996 Bond Act funds. ISTEA funds paid for property appraisals.

The longest stretch of trail corridor was secured by OPRHP in December 1999. New York State Electric & Gas Corporation (NYSEG) initiated a gas pipeline and storage facility project in 1995 for their plant facilities located along the west shore of Seneca Lake. The gas line was slated to pass through Watkins Glen State Park, a Finger Lakes Region park facility. To mitigate the impact of the gas line through the park, NYSEG and OPRHP, working through the Public Service Commission and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, reached an agreement to have NYSEG contribute to the Regions recreational resources through a land exchange. NYSEG agreed to transfer ownership, by easement and deed, to OPRHP the portion of abandoned Lehigh Valley Railroad line between the City of Ithaca and the Village of Trumansburg for the Tompkins County trail for the right to install the gas pipeline through Watkins Glen State Park.

After securing the former rail corridor from NYSEG, Finger Lakes regional staff discussed changing the name of the trail project to reflect the expanded length of the trail. In recognition of the trails association with the areas railroad history, the Region settled on the name Black Diamond. Black Diamond was the name given to the sleek locomotive that hauled rail cars through the territory. The Lehigh Valley Railroad operated the rail line during the heyday of railroad operations. The logo developed for OPRHPs multi-use recreational trail, illustrated below, was patterned after the Lehigh Valley Railroad logo.

Black

TrailDiamond

Proposed Black Diamond Trail Logo

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the plannIng process

State Park facility management and master plans provide valuable information to support OPRHPs decisions for capital investments and land acquisitions. In general, a master plan presents information to guide the development, operation and maintenance of the facility. Master plans are prepared:

if there is a significant change in the existing development plan, e.g. the introduction of a new recreational activity in a park where that activity was not available in the past;

for parks or sites without a master plan or for parks or sites that have an outdated master plan;

when more than one project is proposed for the facility that would create significant changes to recreational activities or would have significant impacts on the environment of the park; or

for undeveloped parks and new acquisitions.

The significant progress made through the 1990s in securing corridor for the trail encouraged OPRHP to return to the master plan efforts in 2000. The Finger Lakes Region hired consultants to prepare a draft master plan and environmental impact statement. Consultants completed additional site analysis of the generally-defined trail corridors, assessed existing infrastructure and recommended a preferred corridor and trail development and management plan. The recommendations form the basis for the proposed master plan presented in Chapter V. of this document.

Parallel to initiating the master plan process, OPRHP entered into a partnership with the National Park Services Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program and the Parks and Trails New York Association to develop a public outreach program for the Black Diamond Trail as it moved forward through the planning and design phases. The partnership resulted in the design and publication of a newsletter and two volunteer corridor-clearing work days. The organizations also participated in public informational meetings.

The trail proposal, covered in this plan, consists of the construction, operation and maintenance of a 15-mile multi-use, multi-purpose trail that will utilize abandoned rail corridor and stream-valley bottomland. The trail will connect the four major state park facilitiesRobert H. Treman, Buttermilk Falls, Allan H. Treman and Taughannock Fallsand numerous other natural and cultural resources important to the Tompkins County community.

The trails main goal is to provide an off-road, accessible facility for walkers, joggers, bicyclists, and other trail users. In the urban area, the trail will be paved to accommodate skaters and skateboarders. As an all-season facility, the trail will be a resource for x-country skiers and snowshoers. While primarily planned for non-motorized uses, winter use by snowmobiles will be considered on segments where pass-through and connection trail links can be accommodated to support state-recognized snowmobile trails systems. All-train vehicle and other off-road vehicle use will not be allowed.

Town of Ulysses

Town ofIthaca

Town of Lansing

Town of Enfield

Village ofTrumansburg

City ofIthaca

C

AYUG

ALA

KE

N .Y. S. Route 96

N.Y.S. Route 13

R oute

13

N.Y.S. Route 89

Taughannock FallsState Park

Buttermilk FallsState Park

Robert H. TremanState Park

Allan H. TremanState Marine Park

BLACKDIAMONDTRAIL

Proposed Route of the Black Diamond Trail

I-

plan content

Combining the requirements of OPRHPs Master Plan process and SEQR, the following chapters present the information used to prepare a master plan for the Black Diamond Trail and evaluate its impact on the areas natural and cultural resources.

Chapter II presents the guiding principles followed to develop the Black Diamond Trail project from concept to concrete plan. Chapter III describes the geographic setting of the trail and existing conditions within the trail corridor that define the trails character. Chapter IV synthesizes the Chapter III information in an analysis with regard to the resources capacities and capabilities to support trail development. Alternatives to address potential development issues round out the chapter.

The proposed development, operation and management plan for the trail is presented in Chapter V. Chapter VI summarizes the potential environmental concerns of building and operating the trail, both from positive and negative viewpoints.

As a new acquisition and an undeveloped facility, the fourth condition applies to the Black Diamond Trail, initiating the preparation of this plan.

In addition to OPRHPs mission and policies, master plan preparation is guided by New Yorks State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR). Development, operation and maintenance alternatives are evaluated following SEQR to identify how plan implementation could impact the natural and cultural resources within the project area over the short and long term, directly or indirectly and cumulatively. SEQR guides the analysis of a project to ensure that a suitable balance of social, economic, and environmental factors be incorporated into the planning and decision-making processes of state, regional and local agencies (6 NYCRR Part 617, 617.1(d))

An important component of the SEQR process is gathering public input. Over the course of several years, the proposed multi-purpose trail has been the subject of two public information and scoping sessions, one-on-one meetings with adjacent property owners and meetings with public and private interest groups. The public meetings, one held in 1989 and the other in 2001, provided valuable input to identify the issues on which to focus the environmental impact analysis. The meetings with adjacent property owners were held to identify site specific issues related to the trails construction and operation. This information was valuable in refining design elements for the trail.

Figure 1-1 on page 5 illustrates the steps that OPRHP will follow to prepare and adopt the trail master plan.

I-

Lead Agency Coordination Process

Identify the involved agencies. Establish OPRHP as the appropriate agency to lead the environmental review.

Determination of Significanceand Positive Declaration

Establish the level of impact the project will have on the environment. A positive declaration leads to the preparation of an environmental impact statement (EIS.)

Draft Plan/Draft EIS Compile information about the proposed facility plan, studies, surveys and analyses of the plans environmental impacts.

Public Hearing(s)Present Draft plan/EIS to public for review, consideration and comment.

Final Master Plan/EIS Consider and, when appropriate, modify plan based on comments received from the public, involved and interested agencies.

Plan ImplementationRequests for funding are made by the Park Region through the Capital Investment Program (CIP.)

Issue Findings and Take Action on Plan Adoption

Prepare a statement of facts pertaining to the project and its environmental impacts. Commissioner of OPRHP adopts master plan based on findings.

Public Information/Scoping Meeting(s)Through public participation, identify issues, concerns and interests to guide the environmental review.

Figure I-New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Master Plan Process

I-

thIs page IntentIonallY leFt Blank

II-

CHAPTER IIGUIDING PRINCIPLES

Overarching New York State and Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation program principles, policies and goals and objectives are the foundation for planning and development decisions. While fluid over time, these directives provide guidance to develop project specific goals and objectives to meet the multiple current and future needs of the public while preserving and protecting New York States valuable natural and cultural resources.

This chapter presents a brief overview of the state, regional and local directives and guiding principles under which the Black Diamond Trail project evolved.

new york state ProGraMs and PolIcIes

Programs dedicated to protecting and enhancing, for public enjoyment and economic vitality, the natural and cultural resources of New York State have come from Executive Orders and policy initiatives issued by the States governors and supported by the States legislatures. The programs policies and goals and objectives set forth directives which are implemented through the appropriate state agencies.

Several statewide programs relevant to the operation of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation include the Open Space Conservation Plan, Coastal Management Program, Heritage New York Program, and Quality Communities Program. Under each of these programs emphasis is placed on working with local municipal leaders and developing partnerships with local public, private and not-for-profit organizations to achieve the highest level of quality and benefit in providing recreational and cultural resources preservation, accessibility and interpretation.

offIce of Parks, recreatIon and HIstorIc PreservatIon MIssIon stateMent and GuIdInG PrIncIPles

Charged with overseeing the operation of New York State owned parks and historic sites and providing technical assistance to communities across the state with locally-owned resources, the OPRHP clarified its mission and methods to accomplish its legislatively-mandated responsibilities in the following mission statement and guiding principles.

Mission statement

The mission of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is to provide safe and enjoyable recreational and interpretive opportunities for all New York State residents and visitors and to be responsible stewards of our valuable natural, historic and cultural resources.

OFFICEOFPARKSRE

CREATION HISTOR

ICPRESERVATION

NEW YORK STATEFINGER LAKES REGION

II-

Guiding PrinciplesA Commitment to Leadership.We recognize the preeminence of the New York State Park and Historic Site System. We are committed to excellence, innovation, professionalism and to forging partnerships. We are committed to seeking the means by which operational and maintenance needs are met as recreational and cultural opportunities are enhanced for our patrons. To meet the challenge, we are committed to pursuing compatible revenue initiatives as we continue our commitment to protect resources.

A Commitment to People.We are committed to serving and protecting the public to the best of our ability, with courtesy and respect. We are committed to our employees and volunteers, encouraging teamwork, self-improvement and mutual support.

A Commitment to Service.We are committed to equal access and outreach to all segments of our society, recognizing individual needs and interests. We are committed to safety, security, creativity and accountability in providing our programs and services.

A Commitment to Preservation.State Parks and Historic Sites are unique and irreplaceable public assests. We are committed to wise acquisition, planning and where compatible, development of recreational facilities; timely and professional care and maintenance; and a responsibility to future generations in whose trust we manage resources. We are committed to providing encouragement to all agencies and individuals to identify, evaluate and protect recreational, natural, historic and cultural resources.

statewIde coMPreHensIve outdoor recreatIon Plan

The OPRHP prepares the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), which sets forth policy directions to fulfill the agencys recreation and preservation mandates. The plan is updated every five years.

The statewide policies for the five-year period 2003 to 2008 include the following:

Preserve and protect natural and cultural resources.

Improve recreation site operation, maintenance and resource management.

Improve and expand water-oriented recreation opportunities.

Develop comprehensive recreationway, greenway and heritage trail systems.

Support compatible recreation and interpretative programs.

Improve cooperation and coordination in providing recreational opportunities and in enhancing natural and cultural resource stewardship between all levels of government and the private sector.

Apply recreation research techniques and management practices to improve and expand parks and other open spaces.

II-

Regional and local initiatives

Several program initiatives are underway in the Finger Lakes Region and Tompkins County that include the Black Diamond Trail as a component or enhancement of the projects goals and objectives.

cayuga lake scenic Byway, Inc.

The 87-mile loop scenic byway was initiated by representatives from the three counties surrounding Cayuga Lake Cayuga, Seneca and Tompkins. The success of the byway is directly tied to the natural, cultural and recreational resources within the Cayuga Lake basin available for visitors. The byway also encourages visitors to the enjoy the byway by the many ways to travel (bicycle, motorcycle, walking, etc.) The Black Diamond Trail is seen as a complement to the Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway segment in Tompkins County providing a safe bicycle and walking facility within the byways service area.

tompkins county waterfront Plan

The plan was prepared with participation from the communities in Tompkins County that border Cayuga Lake, including the Town of Lansing, Town of Ithaca, Town of Ulysses and the City of Ithaca. The plan focuses on celebrating the history of the waterfront and its relationship to the Erie Canalway and the future revitalization of the resource. The goals of the plan include increasing public access and improve waterfront parks, enhancing boating facilities and operations, encouraging appropriate economic development, including tourism, improving linkages between waterfront destinations, residential neighborhoods and existing business districts, and conserving and interpreting natural and cultural resources. The Black Diamond Trail is listed as a key waterfront project to implement the plan.

Ithaca-tompkins county transportation council (Itctc), 2025 long range transportation Plan

Charged with conducting the transportation planning process for the urbanized area of

Tompkins County, the ITCTC has developed a set of goals and objectives that will direct the expansion of the areas transportation system to a multi-modal, comprehensive service program. Providing bicycle and pedestrian facilities are two of the seven issue areas addressed in the plan. The ITCTC also developed a transportation/trail corridor study to identify corridors that can be developed for multi-use trails. The Black Diamond Trail is recognized in this study as one of the trail projects.

town of Ithaca Park, recreation and open space Plan

The Town of Ithaca has progressively planned for its residents open space and recreational needs since the late 1970s. Developing a system of off-road bicycle and pedestrian trails to connect parks, residential neighborhoods, commercial districts and places of work if included in the plan. The Town of Ithaca recognizes the contribution the Black Diamond Trail will have to meeting this objective.

city of Ithaca, cayuga waterfront trail

The City of Ithaca is in the process of developing a trail network along the waterfront in the city to provide an off-road bicycle and pedestrian facility for residents and visitors to travel between parks, commercial facilities, neighborhoods and cultural amenities. The Black Diamond Trail will provide an extension of the waterfront trail to addition areas of the city.

city of Ithaca, southwest natural area Master Plan

The City of Ithaca acquired 60-acres of remnant floodplain forest and former agricultural lands to replace a 60-acre parcel in the Citys southwest area slated for new commercial and residential development. The City is planning to develop the area as a natural park facility. The Black Diamond Trail will provide bicycle and pedestrian access to the future park.

II-10

Black dIaMond traIl Goals and oBjectIves

Applying the previously identified overarching directives to the Black Diamond Trail project, a set of goals and objectives were developed for the trail. The goals and objectives bring implementation of the statewide policies down to the regional and local levels.

GoalIncrease opportunities for trail-based recreation and multi-modal transportation options in the Finger Lakes Region in general, and Tompkins County in particular.

objectivesDevelop a trail facility that maximizes the opportunities to link to neighborhood, recreation areas and other bicycle and pedestrian commuter destinations. Promote the relationship of the Black Diamond Trail to the Finger Lakes bike routes and other regional trails.

GoalProtect, enhance and interpret the scenic, natural and cultural resources of the trail corridor.

objectivesEnsure that trail development is compatible with environmental resources. Identify and protect environmentally significant resources along the trail.Encourage the appreciation, enhancement and preservation of the trails viewsheds.Develop opportunities for the interpretation of significant natural and cultural resources within and adjacent to the trail corridor.

GoalDevelop the trail in a manner that promotes a safe, high-quality, diversified recreational experience and alternate transportation choice.

objectivesTo the greatest extent possible, develop a trail facility that can be used by all ages, skill levels and physical capabilities.To the greatest extent possible, develop a trail facility that is separated from motor vehicle traffic.Develop a compatible multi-use trail that will, at minimum, facilitate bicycling and pedestrian uses.To the maximum extent possible, encourage and support multi-seasonal use of the trail.Use trail-etiquette education to manage and monitor trail user conflicts.

GoalMinimize and/or mitigate, as practical, impacts on adjacent landowners.

objectivesUse design and construction techniques that minimize the impacts of trail use on adjacent landowners.Foster a trail ethic that encourages recognition and respect of the rights of adjacent landowners.

III-11

REGIONAL SETTING

Location The Black Diamond Trail is located in the Finger Lakes State Parks Region, one of 11 state park regions within the State of New York. The Finger Lakes Region is bounded by Lake Ontario to the north and the state of Pennsylvania to the south, and includes Wayne, Ontario, Yates, Seneca, Cayuga, Tompkins, Schuyler, Steuben, Chemung, and Tioga counties.

The Finger Lakes Region is home to nearly 700,000 residents. It is located within a one- to three-hour drive of the states three largest upstate citiesBuffalo, Rochester and Syracuse. The cumulative population of these three cities is 660,000 people. While much smaller in size, the cities of Elmira, Ithaca, Auburn and Geneva, with a cumulative

population of 102,418 people, make up the urban areas within the state park region.

Each year over 2.5 million visitors enjoy the wide variety of recreational opportunities provided by the 29 Finger Lakes regional state park facilities illustrated on Figure III-2 on the following page. The background and ethnicity of the patrons that visit the region are as diverse as the States population. International travelers are also found in significant numbers visiting the Regions park facilities.

Physical Characteristics of the Region

The Finger Lakes geographical region is an area that was carved by ancient glaciers leaving long, deep lakes surrounded by rolling hills and striking waterfalls. The Finger Lakes landscape encompasses hundreds of perennial and intermittent streams, unique species of plants and animals as well as significant wildlife refuges. The region is scattered with hundreds of rocky gorges and waterfalls, which include the striking 215-foot freefall waterfall and rock amphitheater within Taughannock Falls State Park. Many of the gorges display the rock underlay formed 408 to 360 million years ago during the Devonian period of geologic history.

CHAPTER IIIENVIRONMENTAL SETTING

AND EXISTING CONDITIONSNatural and cultural landscape features and life-style and leisure preferences guide the planning and design of new recreational resources. The following sections summarize existing demographic and landscape features located in the Finger Lakes Region that were considered in the Black Diamond Trails plan development.

STATE PARK REGIONS

FingerLakes

Genesee

Niagara

Allegany

Central

ThousandIslands

Saratoga

Palisades

Taconic

Adirondack

Catskill

NewYorkCity

Long Island

SyracuseRochester

Buffalo

Lake Ontario

Pennsylvania

III-12

90

90

390

38

38

13

96

34

14

1396

96B

34

96

79

34

8996

13

13224

414

14

227

79

414

223

417

15

14A

54

54

417

36

36

8617

36

14

90

38

90

38A

38

34

89

89

9096A

41496

34B

34

370

5 2090

414

38414

3

104104A

54

54A

1414A

364

245

245

21

36

2120Alt

364

148821

205

31

5 20

15

104

31

350

17

86

17

86 17

86

Seaway Trail

Finger Lakes Trail

Finger Lakes Trail

Finger Lakes Trail

Barge Canal Recreationway

BargeCana

l Recreation

way

L a k e O n t ar i o

SODUSBAY

Skaneateles Lake

Cana

ndaig

uaLa

ke

Keuk

a

SenecaLake

Cayuga

Lake

Ow

ascoLake

Lake

AuburnGeneva

Canandaigua

Hornell

Elmira

Corning

Ithaca

TwoRivers

ButtermilkFalls

FillmoreGlen

Taughannock

Long Point

Lodi Point

Bonavista

Sampson

CayugaLake

SenecaLake

Ganondagan

Canandaigua

Stony Brook

Pinnacle

KeukaLake

Watkins

Newtown

JenningsPond

Honeoye

Robert H.

Beechwood ChimneyBluffs

BeachFair Haven

Harriet

Allan H. Treman

CatharineValley

Dean'sCove

Glen

Treman

Trail

TwainMark

Battlefield

Falls

SpencerHollister

Sonnenberg Mansionand Gardens

Indian Hills

W A Y N E

O N T A R I O

S E N E C A C A Y U G A

Y A T E S

S T E U B E N

S C H U Y L E R

C H E M U N G T I O G A

T O M P K I N SFingerLakes Trail

FingerLakes Trail

N

Legend

Finger Lakes State Parks

Recreationways and Trails(by others)

FINGER LAKES STATE PARKS REGIONFIGURE III-2

NEW YORK STATE OFFICE OF PARKS, RECREATIONAND HISTORIC PRESERVATION - FINGER LAKES REGION

BLACK DIAMOND TRAIL MASTER PLAN

III-13

Access Centrally located in the state, the Finger Lakes Region is served by several of the interstate highway systems that pass through New York. East-west travel to the region is via the New York State Thruway (I-90) in the northern part of the region and the Southern Tier Expressway (I-17, future I-86) in the southern portion. North-south travel to the region is on Interstate Route 81 from the east and Interstate Route 390 from the west.New York State Routes 13, 34, 79, 89, and 96 are primary state highways within the Finger Lakes Region that provide direct access to the Black Diamond Trail.

Recreational Opportunities

The Finger Lakes Region contains numerous natural and cultural resources that offer a variety of year-round leisure-time opportunities. Outdoor-recreational activities include hiking, biking, jogging, camping, horseback riding, mountain biking, water skiing, sailing, boating, fishing, bird watching, swimming, hunting, skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Throughout the region, world-class fishing is supported by freshwater lakes and streams.

Miles of hiking and biking trails provide access to stunning vistas of lakes, gorges and sculptured hills. The Finger Lakes Region contains miles of snowmobile, cross-county ski and snowshoe trails that traverse the snow-covered countryside. The year-round trail opportunities make the region a popular vacation destination.

Culturally-based trails are also an integral part of the recreational opportunities in the Region. The Canandaigua, Cayuga, Keuka and Seneca Wine Trails offer a plethora of opportunity to learn about viticulture (grape growing) and wine making in the Finger Lakes Region. The scenic drives associated with exploring the wine country appeal to visitors from around the world.

Under New York States Scenic Byway program, networks of designated highways provide intermodal access to the states unique scenic, natural, recreational, cultural, historical and archaeological resources. Within the Finger Lakes Region, three scenic byways give visitors opportunities to explore resources adjacent to Lake Ontario, Cayuga Lake and the scenic, rolling farmlands of central New York.

The Seaway Trail, skirting Lake Ontarios south shore through the region, is promoted as an off-the-beaten-path experience with the natural and cultural landscape of New Yorks St. Lawrence River and Great Lakes communities. The trail is also designated a National Scenic Byway.

Along its 86-mile route, the Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway offers visitors opportunities to learn about the unique geologic history of the Finger Lakes Region, experience the Cayuga Lake vineyards, and visit historic villages and hamlets.

The New York State Route 90 Scenic Byways 50-mile course passes through rolling upstate farmland in Cayuga and Cortland Counties, Cayuga Lake waterfront communities and central New Yorks magnificent Montezuma Wetlands Complex.

The Finger Lakes Region can also be experienced from its wealth of water resources. Most notable is the New York State Canalway System. Within the Finger Lakes Region the canalway includes a portion of the Erie Canal and the Cayuga-Seneca Canal. In addition to the recreational boating opportunity afforded by the canal, visitors can get a unique historical perspective of the communities that sprouted up along the canal to take advantage of the expanded trade route created by the boating waterway. Statewide Trail and Greenway Systems

Interest to establish networks of hiking and biking trail systems across the state has been growing for over 30 years. Major trail corridors have developed through the northern and southern portions of the Finger Lakes Region.

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ROUTE 89

LARSENENGINEERS

700 WEST METRO PARK, ROCHESTER, NEW YORK 14623-2678(585)272-7310 FAX (585)272-0159

STUDY AREALOCATION MAP

NEW YORK STATE OFFICE OF PARKS, RECREATIONAND HISTORIC PRESERVATION - FINGER LAKES REGION

BLACK DIAMOND TRAIL MASTER PLAN

SCALE: 1" = 8,000'

PROPOSED BLACK DIAMOND TRAIL

W ES

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N

TAUGHANNOCK FALLS STATE PARK

ALLAN H. TREMANSTATE

STATE PARKROBERT H. TREMAN

STUDY AREABOUNDARY

FIGURE III-3

TRUMANSBURG

BLACK DIAMONDTRAIL

ITHACA

BLACK DIAMONDTRAIL

ROUTE 96

FALLS RD.

89

FALLS RD.

TAUGHANNOCK PARK

AGARD RD.

KRAFT RD.

COLEGROVE

PERRY RD.

WILKIN

S RD.

KRUM

COR

NERS

RD.

BOSTWICK

TAUGHANNOCK BLVD.

WILLOW

DUBOIS RD.

RD.

ENFIELD

CREEK RD.

LAKE ONTARIO

LONG

LAKE ERIE

STATE OF NEW YORK

NEW JERSEY

PENNSYLVANIA

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ONT

MAS