Community Vision Plan for the Palisades Nature Preserve

PALISADES NATURE PRESERVE at James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park

North Bergen, New Jersey

Prepared for The Coalition to Preserve the Palisades Cliffs, Inc.

Prepared byAmerican Planning AssociationNew Jersey ChapterCommunity Planning Assistance Program

June 2014

COMMUNITY VISION PLAN

The American Planning Association, New Jersey Chapter sponsors a Community Planning Assistance Program (CPAP) which con-nects communities in need of planning assistance with professionals willing to volunteer their time and talent.

The Coalition to Preserve the Palisades Cliffs, Inc. submitted an application to CPAP requesting the development of a community vision plan for a 6.55 acre site owned by Hudson County that has been closed for many years. The intent of this community vision plan is to set in motion the planning process which will hopefully result in Hudson County’s reopening of this site as a nature pre-serve with hiking trails.

Through the CPAP, several volunteers were identified. These planners, engineers, and landscape architects were teamed together for creation of this community vision plan. The project team included the following:

Colette Santasieri, PhD, Project ManagerFiona Akins, AICP

John Duda, ASLA, MKW + Associates, LLCChelsea Gleis

Lois Goldman, PP, AICPMichael Kolber

Ryan Kovac, LLA, ASLA, Mathews Nielsen Landscape Architects, PC.Kim Mathews, RLA, ASLA, Mathews Nielsen Landscape Architects, PC.

Michael Viscardi, LLA, PP, AICP

CONTENTS

Introduction to the Project 1

Overview of the Study Area 2

The Site 3

Site Description 3

Site Assets, Concerns and Challenges 4

The Community Visioning Process 7

The Vision 8

Vision Statement 9

Conceptual Designs and Recommendations 10

Realizing the Vision 18

Project Phasing and Cost Estimates 18

Estimated Project Timeline 20

Funding the Proposed Palisades Nature Preserve 20

Appendix A: The “Serrao Report”

Appendix B: Steering Committee Meeting Summary

Appendix C: Community Meeting Summary

Page

COMMUNITY VISION PLAN PALISADES NATURE PRESERVE 1

INTRODUCTION TO THE PROJECT

The purpose of this project was to develop a community vi-sion plan for a 6.55 acre site that lies on the Palisades Cliffs, a line of steep cliffs formed about 200 million years ago. Part of the James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park, the site is owned by Hudson County, but is currently closed to visitors.

The Coalition to Preserve the Palisades Cliffs, Inc., an orga-nization of local citizens, is concerned that development will destroy the Palisades. While this site remains in a natural form, development has occurred on other portions of the Pal-isades, and on properties near this site. The Coalition has begun a grass roots effort to have the site redesigned and reopened for the dual purposes of creating a nature preserve and protecting the site from development. The first step in this crusade was the creation of this community vision plan. The intent of this community vision plan is to set in motion the planning process which will hopefully result in Hudson County’s reopening of this site as a nature preserve. (It is im-portant to note that Hudson County does not currently have plans for or funding in place to reopen this site, although they have participated on the site’s Steering Committee which is discussed in the Community Visioning Process section of this plan.)

The American Planning Association, New Jersey Chapter Community Planning Assistance Program (CPAP) project team’s approach to creating this community vision plan in-volved three phases of work. The first involved acquiring knowledge of the site through review of current and historic maps and photos, and other documentation, and through a site visit. The second phase involved engaging the commu-nity through a series of visioning exercises to determine their thoughts, concerns, and ideas for the site. Using the com-munity input as a framework for this vision, the third phase involved the CPAP project team’s application of their profes-sional skills and experience in creating a conceptual plan for the site. This community vision plan is the culmination of those efforts.

The Community Vision Plan for the Palisades Nature Pre-serve at the James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park contains an overview of the study area, and discussion of the site. It details the community visioning process and presents the community’s vision for the site. Finally, this community vision plan provides a roadmap for realizing this vision that includes necessary phases of work and estimated timeline, estimated costs, and potential funding sources.


The proposed Palisades Nature Preserve at the James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park is located in the Town-ship of North Bergen, Hudson County, New Jersey (see Fig-ure 1). The Township of North Bergen is shaped like an in-verted boot, with its northern section bordered on the north by Bergen County, on the east by the Hudson River, and on the west by the Hackensack River and Cromakill Creek. The remainder of township is bordered on the west by the Town of Secaucus; on the east by the towns of Guttenberg and West New York, and the City of Union City; and at a sin-gle point at its southern end by the City of Jersey City. The proposed Palisades Nature Preserve is located in the north eastern section of the township.

The Township of North Bergen occupies a total area of 5.575 square miles. According to the United States Census, its 2010 population was 60,773, with 22,062 households, and 14,539 families. The population density was 11,838 people per square mile making it one of the most densely populated municipalities in the country. The 2010 racial makeup of the township was 66.98% White, 6.55% Asian, 4.04% African American, 16.63% other races, and 4.84% from two or more races. Hispanics or Latinos of any race constituted 68.40% of the population.

Hudson County’s park system includes 616 total acres of ac-tive and passive recreation space. James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park is one of the largest in that system and the only county park in North Bergen. Occupying an area of 167 acres, the park, originally known as North Hudson Park, was established in 1910. It was renamed to honor James J. Braddock who was the World Heavyweight Boxing Cham-pion from 1935 to 1937. The park contains a 16-acre lake, and 45 athletic facilities that include tennis courts, basketball courts, bocce courts, handball courts, football fields, volley-ball courts, a little league field, and an exercise/cross country course.

OVERVIEW OF THE STUDY AREA

Figure 1 Site Location

Legend Township of North Bergen boundary

James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park

Proposed Palisades Nature Preserve


The proposed Palisades Nature Preserve site is bordered on the west by John F. Kennedy Boulevard East (commonly referred to as Boulevard East), on the north by Bulls Ferry Road and a property that then is bordered by Bulls Ferry Road, and on the south by the imaginary extension of 79th Street down the Palisades. The southern corner of the site is bordered on the east by River Road. The remainder of the eastern border is just west of River Road, separated by a strip of privately owned, undeveloped land (Block 437 Lot 2.01, a half-acre linear lot paralleling River Road) (see Figure 2). Surrounding land uses include: James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park to the west, apartment buildings to the north, undeveloped cliffs and parkland to the south, and res-idential and commercial uses across River Road to the east.

Block 437.01, Lot 1 contains the proposed Palisades Nature Preserve site. Hudson County owns the site, and it is legally part of the James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park. The site is comprised of 6.55 acres of gently sloping to steep terrain, with the highest elevation on its western side (along Boulevard East) and its lowest elevation on its eastern side (near River Road). Along the northern property line the ele-vation change is approximately 100 feet (140+/- high point to 40 low point), and along the southern property line the eleva-tion change is 160 feet (from 170 high point to 10 low point). While this site was once opened to the public, it is currently closed.

THE SITE

Figure 2 Proposed Palisades Nature Preserve Site

Figure 4 Lake Overflow into the Site

Site Description

Figure 3 Overgrown Vegetation

In 1983, Naturalist John Serrao described this and an adja-cent site as a place notable for its “two huge American elms, picturesque cascading stream, and steep Palisades cliffs.” (See Appendix A: The “Serrao Report”). However, the site is currently overgrown with various types of vegetation (see Figure 3). The tree cover is concentrated along the west-ern and northern sections; while the southeastern portion is characterized by low-lying shrubs and vegetation. A pipe at the northwest corner of the site carries overflow from the lake in James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park, which then forms a stream that cascades southeast to a culvert that carries the water under River Road to its discharge in the Hudson River (see Figure 4).


The proposed Palisades Nature Preserve site is a rare, natu-ral open space in an otherwise densely developed and pop-ulated urban area. It is an undeveloped approximately 200 million year old geological formation that reportedly is home to over 40 species of birds and assorted wildlife, as well as an assortment of vegetation. The site has been described as one of great beauty and potential to serve as a bird sanctu-ary and nature preserve for the area. The site’s abundance of plant species as reported by Naturalist John Serrao in 1983 included blackberry, wild grape, and Japanese honeysuckle. The younger tree species included black locust, gray cherry, and sassafras, while the older trees included bitternut hicko-ry, red oak, white ash, and as Serrao wrote, “the two largest American elms this writer has ever seen on the Palisades.” In 1983, the elms approached 10 feet in circumference, 90 feet in height, and were “certainly over a century (and perhaps even 200 years) in age.”

In addition to the trees, Serrao found the abundance of birds particularly impressive, especially for such a small area. He identified 17 different bird species in mid-winter and theo-rized that 50 or more species could be observed in May. The species he observed included mourning doves, white-throat-ed sparrows, house finches, blue jays, cardinals and chicka-dees. “The reason for the surprising abundance of birds (and rabbits) here is,” Serrao wrote, “first of all, the dense cover created by the extensive vine tangles and bramble thickets, and, secondly, the high diversity of trees and shrubs which bear fruits consumed by birds…These two features can be expected to attract a great variety of birds at all seasons.”

The site’s vegetation also presents seasonal interests with budding plants in the Spring, dense green foliage in the Sum-mer, and a variety of color in the Fall. Its lack of foliage in the Winter allows for several views of the Hudson River and New York skyline (see Figure 5).

Although the site has been closed since 2008, it contains artifacts from the days when it was open to the public and people traveled through the site to and from Bull’s Ferry (see Figure 6). Another site asset is a stream and waterfall (to be

enhanced) that has been created by the overflow from the lake in James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park (see Figures 7 and 8). This water enhances the habitat for birds and wildlife, as well as adds to the scenic atmosphere.

Site Assets, Concerns and Challenges

Figure 5 View from the Site to the Hudson River and New York City

Figure 6 Site’s Archway and Stairs

Figure 7 Site’s Stream

Figure 8 Site’s Waterfall to be Enhanced

Assets


Despite the site’s many assets, the current site conditions present a number of concerns to the community and Hud-son County park officials. These conditions would need to be addressed before the site can be reopened to the public. The first is litter, which has been accumulating on the site for years (see Figure 9).

Next is the overgrown state of vegetation, some of which in-cludes invasive plant species such as poison ivy (see Figure 10). While trails still exist, the overgrown vegetation makes much of them impassible.

Security is also a concern. Even though the site is closed, it is easily accessible by scaling a low stone wall. Trespassing and other illegal activities occur.

Although the stream is viewed as a site asset, it also pres-ents a hazard as water currently overflows onto River Road (see Figure 11).

Figure 9 Litter

Concerns

Figure 10 Invasive Plant Species

Figure 11 Flooding from the Site onto River Road


A number of challenges stand in the way of the reopening of this site as a nature preserve. Some are briefly presented below.

Development vs. Preservation: Because of the site’s steep terrain and dense vegetation, an important challenge is striking a balance between designing to allow for passive use - both general and ADA accessible - and preserving the future preserve’s natural integrity.

Litter: While removing the garbage currently on the site is vital, es-tablishing uses that will promote respect of the site’s natu-ral conditions is also important. Additionally, a park mainte-nance program will be necessary.

Safety and Security: The site’s inherent steepness is a challenge to public safety. Access to the site after hours presents a security issue. The proposed nature preserve’s design, as well as any securi-ty measures implemented by the County need to consider safety and security balanced with preserving the vegetation, habitat, and public’s enjoyment of the site.

Challenges

Education: The site offers many educational opportunities regarding the geologic history of the Palisades, as well as the vegetation and wildlife. The challenge will be to maximize visitors’ ed-ucational experience while keeping the natural elements in-tact.

Stormwater Management: While the lake’s overflow has created a stream that contrib-utes to the scenic and habitat values of the site, a challenge will be to ensure that this overflow does not continue to cause flooding conditions at the base of the site.

Steep Terrain: The site’s steep terrain, and reported unstable slopes pres-ent a challenge for trail design as well as soil erosion.

Funding: At present, Hudson County has no funding dedicated to the design, construction, maintenance, and operation of the pro-posed nature preserve. The challenge will be to identify and secure funding from multiple sources.


The Coalition to Preserve the Palisades Cliffs, Inc. effort to encourage Hudson County to reopen the site is driven by the community’s desire to not only preserve this geological for-mation, but also to preserve the natural setting in this dense-ly developed and populated environment. A community vi-sioning process was created and implemented in an effort to determine the community’s thoughts, concerns, and ideas for the site, and use the community’s voice as the foundation of this vision plan.

Two community meetings were conducted by the CPAP team. The first meeting involved the Palisades Cliff Passive Park Steering Committee, a group of residents, and repre-sentatives of the Hudson County Division of Parks and Hud-son County Division of Planning that was assembled by the Coalition to Preserve the Palisades Cliffs, Inc. The purpose of the meeting was to extract the Steering Committee mem-ber’s thoughts, concerns, ideas and visions for the site. This was done through the use of various CPAP facilitated exer-cises. All of the information generated at this meeting helped to frame the community visioning meeting and informed this vision plan. The two major decisions made by the Steering Committee were that this site should be reopened as a na-ture preserve, and the working name of this preserve would be the Palisades Nature Preserve at the James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park. (The meeting summary is con-tained in Appendix B.)

The second meeting was open to the general public (see Fig-ure 12). Approximately 50 people attended this community visioning meeting. Most participants were residents of North Bergen, Guttenberg and West New York who live within ten blocks of James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park. The participants were placed in groups that worked together in facilitated visioning exercises (see Figure 13). The exer-cises involved generating ideas for the site’s future uses and amenities (see Figure 14). Overwhelmingly, the participants expressed the desire for: a natural oasis of vegetation and

THE COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS

ATTENTIONJames J. BraddockN o r t h H u d s o n C o u n t y P a r k

CommunityAs a resident of the communities surrounding Braddock Park—you are invited to attend and participate in a

Visioning Workshop for the new Palisades Nature Preserve @ J. J.Braddock Park The 11 acre parcel of park is located between Boulevard East and River Road alongside Bulls Ferry Road and south to 79th Street. This part of J. J. Braddock Park has been padlocked from public use for far too long. Please join us to share your vision and hopes for this small gem along the Palisades Cliffs.

North Bergen Free Public Library (8411 Bergenline Avenue; lower level conference room)

Monday, March 31, 6:30 PM Seating is limited so please RSVP no later than Friday, March 28 to PNP. [email protected]. We look forward to seeing you all there!

The Vision Workshop is hosted by the Coalition to Preserve the Palisades Cliffs in conjunction with the NJ Chapter of the American Planning Association, Hudson County Department of Parks and Community Service, and the North Bergen Parks Department.

Figure 12 Community Visioning Meeting Announcement

wildlife; a place for people to safely enjoy nature; and an opportunity for environmental education. (The meeting sum-mary is contained in Appendix C.) As with the results of the Steering Committee meeting, all of the information generat-ed at this meeting helped inform this community vision plan.

Figure 13 Group of Meeting Participants

Figure 14 Results of a Visioning Exercise


Figure 15 Illustrative Eye-Level Perspective Rendering from River Road (Perspective 2 in Figure 17)

THE VISION


A natural retreat to learn from…

The Palisades Nature Preserve will be an unparalleled edu-cational opportunity for students of all ages to learn in action about our natural environment, and for community stewards to engage in the protection of a valued resource.

• Interpretive signage will highlight natural processes and historical features. • School groups will learn about the water cycle and ecological restoration. • Guided tours will identify local flora and fauna through the seasons.

Visioning is the process of developing consensus about what future a community wants and then deciding what is neces-sary to achieve it. The community generated vision of the proposed Palisades Nature Preserve is:

The Palisades Nature Preserve will be a natural retreat to protect, enjoy and learn from.

A natural retreat to protect…

The Palisades Nature Preserve will be a natural oasis within our urban community for the native ecosystem to flourish, where a freshwater stream and native plants provide habitat for wildlife, and a unique and ancient geological formation is accessible for all to view.

• Native habitats will be protected and invasive species will be managed • The stream channel will be restored and protected. • Access to the 200 million year geological history of the Palisades will be provided. A natural retreat to enjoy…

The Palisades Nature Preserve will be a place for people to safely enjoy nature: a sanctuary within our urban communi-ty where visitors can hike through the woods, listen to bird song, smell native plants in bloom, and watch a meandering stream weave through the forest floor.

• Walking trails will weave sensitively throughout the site. • Quiet seating spots will allow visitors to enjoy the peace and beauty of natural areas. • Trails, terraces and ramps will extend access to select portions of the site to allow everyone access to the natural character of the Preserve.

Vision Statement


From above, the proposed Palisades Nature Preserve site can be seen as one of the widest swaths of uninterrupted vegetation in the ribbon of green that makes its way through Hudson County along the spine of the Palisades. The steep-ly sloped natural area is stabilized in part by the plant roots, and the tree canopies, and dense thickets provide habitat to a myriad of animals including numerous bird species that follow the lower Hudson migratory route.

When completed, the Palisades Nature Preserve will offer a variety of opportunities for the quiet enjoyment of nature: a unique natural area nestled along the Palisades ridgeline where urbanites can simply take a walk and watch the birds.In order to achieve the aforementioned vision, a series of site recommendations are provided below that collectively will lead to the establishment of:

• A restored natural stream corridor that effectively conveys stormwater runoff; • Enhanced natural features; and • A trail system that will provide a variety of experien- ces and expand access to a large portion of the site (including a limited ADA accessible portion).

Figure 16 (above) shows an example of interpretive signage that could be added to the site to enhance the education-al experience. Figure 17 is an illustrative site plan of pro-posed entrances, trails, and seating nodes. Figure 18 is a site plan with a phasing diagram overlay. Figure 19 shows two cross-sections of the proposed site. Figures 20 and 21 are plans for an ADA Accessible metal ramp and tree top walkway, respectively. Lastly, Figure 22 is an illustrative ren-dering of the upper stream and trails after improvements.

Conceptual Designs and Recommendations

Figure 16 Interpretive Signage


Figure 17 Annotated Illustrative Site Plan (Symbols 1 & 2 correspond to eye-level perspectives shown in Figure 22 on page 14 and Figure 15 on page 8, respectively)


0 ft 80 160 320

N

1a

2a 2b

1b

3a

3b

3c

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3d

3a

SIGNATURE PLANTING AT TRAIL NODES & ENTRY LOCATIONS

RIPARIAN IMPROVEMENTS & BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION

PEDESTRIAN CIRCULATION IMPROVEMENTS

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT & NATIVE SPECIES PLANTING IMPROVEMENTS

NEW OR RESTORED TRAILS

NEW TREE OR SHRUB PLANTING

LEGEND

PROPERTY LINE

PRO

PERT

Y LI

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PERT

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Figure 18 Site Plan with Phasing Diagram Overlay


Figure 19 Annotated Sections


Figure 21 ADA Accessible Tree Top Walkway Plan and Section

Figure 20 ADA Accessible Metal Ramp at Southern Boulevard East Entrance


Figure 22 Illustrative Eye-Level Perspective Rendering of Upper Stream & Trails (Perspective 1 in Figure 17)


Stream Channel and Riparian Improvements

A stream enters the property near the northwest corner and flows southeast for almost 400 linear feet, across the full width of the site, before entering a culvert adjacent to the eastern property line. Together, this stream and its adjacent riparian corridor comprise one of the primary natural features of the site to be restored and celebrated.

Summary of Recommendations:

Improve the controlled overland conveyance of stormwater runoff by means of a restored open stream channel and al-low for the restoration and ecological enhancement of the riparian corridor that traverses the site. Specific strategies to implement and phase these open space improvements are to be further developed as funding becomes available. A key goal of the plan is to protect existing habitat in the dense ur-ban area.

The recommendations allow for the design and implementa-tion of controlled runoff with the ultimate restoration objective to create a stream course that has reached a state of urban equilibrium, and in doing so improve ecological health and water quality.

OUTFALL STRUCTURE

Ripping out the walls here to rebuilt outfall structure is anexpensive solution. Propose to clean out outfall pipe, stabilizearea with stone riprap as shown. Need to further assess if treeis beneficial as a natural velocity reducer, or if it iscompromised and a hazard to leave in place.

Anticipate flood hazard permit requirement of New JerseyDepartment of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) (subject tototal watershed). Need to assess maximum flow of water inextreme storm conditions.

SITE PLANLOWER RIPARIAN IMPROVEMENTS

Construct a lower visual of a waterfalleither through a manmade (sculptures)style waterfall or because of its proximityto River Road, import large river rocks.The water should fall into a reinforcedintake area that stores water, drains via aweir or large inlet grate over a storm wellstructure tying into the existing inlets,protects pedestrians from the pooledarea but maintains a visual of the waterfeature.

Riparian improvements on lower end should include smallvegetated swales and pools cutting across slope to retainand improve water quality, and provide possible wetlandmitigation if required and additional bird/wildlife habitat.

STREAM THROUGH SITERequires a more detailed topographic map of stream andelevations, but riparian improvements as shown on the siteplan are a series of small dams/gabion/rock to terrace andslow down water flow to enhance area and eliminateerosion.

Anticipate local soil conservation (SCS) approval, floodhazard permit (subject to total watershed), possible generalpermit #7, #17 (Trails), #20, #26 Requirement of NJDEP.Need to assess maximum flow of water in extreme stormconditions.

LOWER RIPARIAN IMPROVEMENTSRequire a more detailed topographic map of stream and elevations, but riparian improvements on lower end should include small vegetated swales and pools cutting across slope to retain and improve water quality, and provide possible wetland mitigation if required and additional bird/wildlife habitat.

Anticipate local SCS approval, flood hazard permit (subject to total watershed), possible general permit #7, #20, #26 requirement of NJDEP. Need to assess maximum flow of water in extreme storm conditions.

INTAKE STRUCTURERequires a more detailed topographic map of stream and elevations, but riparian improvements at the lower end of River Road are very critical and possibly the most costly part of the project. However, there is a tremendous opportunity to take advantage of the water feature and construct a lower visual of a waterfall either through a manmade (sculpture) style waterfall or because of its proximity to River Road, import large river rocks. The water should fall into a reinforced intake area that stores water, drains via a weird or large inlet grate over a storm well structure tying into the existing inlets, protects pedestrians from the pooled area but maintains a visual of the water feature.

Anticipate local SCS approval, flood hazard permit (subject to total water shed), possible general permit #7, #11, #20, #26 requirement of NJDEP, possible Army Corp of Engineers Permit. Need to assess maximum flow of water in extreme storm conditions.

Figure 23 Stream Channel and Riprian Improvements Presentation

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Stabilization and energy dissipation improvements, including but not limited to, a stone apron reinforce-ment area at the upper culvert outfall where the stream enters the site;

Stabilization and energy dissipation improvements, including but not limited to, the maintenance, re- pair and/or replacement of the intake structure where runoff leaves the site;

Additional structural (sub-surface) storage that may be necessary as part of intake improvements; and

Channel stabilization and energy dissipation meth- ods such as a series of weirs and check dams throughout the length of the stream to control erosion and deposition and promote the creation of a naturalized stream course that includes a step/pool/run longitudinal profile with expanded bankfull areas for increased runoff storage.

Figure 23 provides more detailed recommendations regard-ing the stream channel and riparian improvements.


Aside from the stream, it is the geology and associated vege-tation that serve as the defining element of this natural area. The site can most simply be split into three dominant vege-tation typologies: woodland areas, a shrub land area, and a riparian corridor that is comprised of both forested and shrub land vegetation. All of the above are in relative states of eco-logical health and contain invasive species. Vegetation man-agement strategies include both removals and cutting back of existing vegetation and newly proposed planting in sup-port of ecological and visual enhancements.


Vegetation Improvements Circulation Improvements

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Plant a row of small flowering trees along the River Road frontage to help visually define the extent of the nature preserve.

Selectively prune lower tree limbs and remove and/ or thin existing dense understory vegetation to open sightlines both within the upper trail zone, as well as, views down into the site from the raised eastern sidewalk at JFK Boulevard East. Pending further assessment, additional deciduous shade trees may need to be cut down to create a safe environment for the portions of the site with trails. Supplement vegetation removal with new plantings of grouped native trees, shrubs and groundcovers to control erosion and improve overall forest ecology.

Plant clusters of native flowering trees and shrubs at select locations that will:• increase native vegetation and expand the for-

ested portion of the site along the edges of the existing woodland areas (into adjacent Bramble Area)

• provide visually distinct subareas of vegetation that will act as beacons (associated with entranc-es and interstitial resting stops with seating along steep sections of the Bramble Trail) and contrib-ute to the overall visual enhancement of the site

Incorporating the two existing points of entry along Boulevard East, a looping series of trails is proposed to allow for greater pedestrian access to the relatively flatter upper portion of the site. An additional elevated walkway or ramp system will be necessary to allow for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant access from the eastern sidewalk at Boulevard East to a zone nearest the existing southern entrance. These loop trails will connect to the reopened Bulls Ferry Road en-trance on a restored section of degraded trail and will cross the upper portion of the restored stream via a proposed pe-destrian bridge. Similarly, a series of degraded stone stairs will be rebuilt to extend access to a new eastern connection to River Road. From the base of these stairs a new single track trail will traverse the steep slopes of the densely vege-tated “Bramble” in a series of three switchbacks.

This meandering trail alignment will help to establish a less severe average 10% slope along the foot path and contribute to a more gradual and elongated experience leading to a one newly created entry at River Road. Seating will be provided at the two switchback points and at the base of the stairs to allow for people to sit and bird watch or simply rest along a fairly strenuous uphill walk. The proposed alignment of the overall trail network will create two separate areas that allow visual access to the stream.


Reopen existing and establish new points of entry• Reopen the north and south JFK Boulevard East en-

trances• Reopen the Bulls Ferry Road entrance• Establish a new entrance at southeast corner of the

site along River Road

Trail development • Create upper woodland Connection Path and loop-

trail network• Build pedestrian bridge over upper stream• Create ADA accessible entrance options and acces-

sible trail zone• Rebuild stairs• Create Bramble Trail to traverse slope with seating

areas


As funding for the entire project is unlikely to be available in one lump sum, the following phasing is recommended. These phases are illustrated on Figure 18.

Phase One A: Upper Riparian Zone Improvements

Phase One B: Lower Riparian Zone Improvements

Phase Two A: ADA Improvements to Blvd. East Entry and ADA Zone Trail Work

REALIZING THE VISIONProject Phasing and Cost Estimates

Phase 1A and 1B Cost Estimates Phase 2A and 2B Ramp Cost Estimates

Phase Two B: Manage Understory Vegetation (Clearing and Native Species Planting) and Upper Trail Connection

As mentioned in the aforementioned Circulation Improve-ments section, an additional elevated walkway or ramp sys-tem will be necessary to allow for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant access from the eastern sidewalk at Boulevard East to a zone nearest the existing southern en-trance. Phase 2 offers two estimates: an option with a raised path, and a ramp.

JFK BLVD EAST

CONCEPTUAL COST ESTIMATE

EXTENDEDITEMS UNIT QUANTITY UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

SITEWORK1 CLEARING SITE FOR RIPARIAN IMPROVEMENTS LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $20,000.00 $20,000.002 SOIL EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROLS LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $15,000.00 $15,000.003 OPEN SOUTH TRAIL BLVD EAST LUMP SUM 0 $0.00 $0.004 STAIR STRUCTURE (REBUILT) LUMP SUM 0 $0.00 $0.005 BRAMBLE TRAIL & CONNECTION PATH (INC. BULLS FERRY ROAD, RIVER ROAD ENTRANCE LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.006 OPEN NORTH TRAIL BLVD EAST LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.007 4'-6' HIGH BARRIER FENCE L.F. 50 $40.00 $2,000.008 PREFABRICATED PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $25,000.00 $25,000.009 MISCELLANEOUS DRAINAGE WORK-ROCK,RIP RAP, OUTFALL LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $500,000.00 $500,000.00

10 SEATING @THREE NODES LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.0011 ADA ACCESSIBLE RAISED WALK L.F. 100 $0.00 $0.0012 PERMANENT SIGNS LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.0013 LANDSCAPING / SITE RESTORATION LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $10,000.00 $10,000.0014 SITE LIGHTING LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.0015 MISCELLANEOUS SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $5,000.00 $5,000.00

SITEWORK SUBTOTAL $577,000.00

16 OPTIONAL RAMP L.F. 0 $0.00 $0.00

RAMP SUBTOTAL $0.00

CONSTRUCTION COST TOTAL $577,000.00

COST FACTORS (% of Construction Cost )

ENVIRONMENTAL (10%) $57,700.00PLANNING (4%): $23,080.00DESIGN (12%): $69,240.00PROJECT ADMINISTRATION (2%): $11,540.00CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT (10%): $57,700.00

Subtotal, all costs: $796,260.00Contingency @ 55% of all costs*: $437,943.00

TOTAL PROJECT COST: $1,234,198.00

*MOBILIZATIION, GENERAL, OVERHEAD, CONSTRUCTION, ESCALATION-PLANS ARE CONCEPT ONLY AND SUBJECT TO VARIABLES TO BE ENCOUNTERED AT ADVANCED DESIGN

PALISADES NATURE RESERVE PHASE I A B

HUDSON COUNTY, NJJFK BLVD EAST



SITEWORK1 CLEARING SITE LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $15,000.00 $15,000.002 SOIL EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROLS LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.003 OPEN SOUTH TRAIL BLVD EAST LUMP SUM 1 $3,000.00 $3,000.004 STAIR STRUCTURE (REBUILT) LUMP SUM 1 $0.00 $0.005 BRAMBLE TRAIL & CONNECTION PATH (INC. BULLS FERRY ROAD, RIVER ROAD ENTRANCE LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.006 OPEN NORTH TRAIL BLVD EAST LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $3,000.00 $2,000.007 4'-6' HIGH BARRIER FENCE L.F. 200 $40.00 $8,000.008 PREFABRICATED PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.009 MISCELLANEOUS DRAINAGE WORK-ROCK,RIP RAP, OUTFALL LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.00

10 SEATING @THREE NODES LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.0011 ADA ACCESSIBLE RAISED WALK L.F. 0 $200.00 $0.0012 PERMANENT SIGNS LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $2,500.00 $2,500.0013 LANDSCAPING / SITE RESTORATION LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $50,000.00 $50,000.0014 SITE LIGHTING LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $5,000.00 $5,000.0015 MISCELLANEOUS SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $20,000.00 $20,000.00


16 OPTIONAL RAMP L.F. 200 $500.00 $100,000.00

RAMP SUBTOTAL $100,000.00





TOTAL PROJECT COST: $423,633.25


PALISADES NATURE RESERVE PHASE 2A 2B RAMP OPTION

HUDSON COUNTY, NJMay-14


Phase 2A and 2B Raised Walk Cost Estimates Phase 3A-3D Cost Estimates

Phase Three A: Establish River Road Entry/ River Road Signature Species Tree Planting

Phase Three B: Long Path Connection to Second Node/ Signature Species Planting at Node

Phase Three C: Long Path Connection between Second, Third & Forth Nodes/ Signature Species Planting at Node

Phase Three D: Rebuild Stairs

JFK BLVD EAST



SITEWORK1 CLEARING SITE LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $15,000.00 $15,000.002 SOIL EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROLS LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.003 OPEN SOUTH TRAIL BLVD EAST LUMP SUM 1 $3,000.00 $3,000.004 STAIR STRUCTURE (REBUILT) LUMP SUM 1 $0.00 $0.005 BRAMBLE TRAIL & CONNECTION PATH (INC. BULLS FERRY ROAD, RIVER ROAD ENTRANCE LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.006 OPEN NORTH TRAIL BLVD EAST LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $3,000.00 $2,000.007 4'-6' HIGH BARRIER FENCE L.F. 200 $40.00 $8,000.008 PREFABRICATED PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.009 MISCELLANEOUS DRAINAGE WORK-ROCK,RIP RAP, OUTFALL LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.00

10 SEATING @THREE NODES LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.0011 ADA ACCESSIBLE RAISED WALK L.F. 100 $200.00 $20,000.0012 PERMANENT SIGNS LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $2,500.00 $2,500.0013 LANDSCAPING / SITE RESTORATION LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $50,000.00 $50,000.0014 SITE LIGHTING LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $5,000.00 $5,000.0015 MISCELLANEOUS SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $20,000.00 $20,000.00


16 OPTIONAL RAMP L.F. 0 $500.00 $0.00

RAMP SUBTOTAL $0.00







PALISADES NATURE RESERVE PHASE 2A 2B RAISED WALK OPTION


JFK BLVD EAST



SITEWORK1 CLEARING SITE LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $40,000.00 $40,000.002 SOIL EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROLS LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $10,000.00 $10,000.003 OPEN SOUTH TRAIL BLVD EAST LUMP SUM 0 $0.00 $0.004 STAIR STRUCTURE (REBUILT) LUMP SUM 1 $25,000.00 $25,000.005 BRAMBLE TRAIL & CONNECTION PATH (INC. BULLS FERRY ROAD, RIVER ROAD ENTRANCE LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $50,000.00 $50,000.006 OPEN NORTH TRAIL BLVD EAST LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $3,000.00 $2,000.007 4'-6' HIGH BARRIER FENCE L.F. 300 $40.00 $12,000.008 PREFABRICATED PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.009 MISCELLANEOUS DRAINAGE WORK-ROCK,RIP RAP, OUTFALL LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $0.00 $0.00

10 SEATING @THREE NODES LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $3,000.00 $3,000.0011 ADA ACCESSIBLE RAISED WALK L.F. 0 $0.00 $0.0012 PERMANENT SIGNS LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $2,500.00 $2,500.0013 LANDSCAPING / SITE RESTORATION LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $15,000.00 $15,000.0014 SITE LIGHTING FOR STAFF USE AND SAFETY PURPOSES LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $1,000.00 $1,000.0015 MISCELLANEOUS SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS LUMP SUM LUMP SUM $25,000.00 $25,000.00


16 OPTIONAL RAMP L.F. 0 $600.00 $0.00

RAMP SUBTOTAL $0.00






PALISADES NATURE RESERVE PHASE 3 A-D



Estimated Project Timeline

A timeline with estimated durations for each task needed to ultimately construct the project is provided below. This time-line is presented in phases to correspond to the aforemen-tioned Project Phasing. Each phase is then divided by three types of work: Predesign, Design and Permitting, and Bidding Period and Construction. The first phase will set the stage for the rest of the phases from a permitting and logistics point of view. While there is flexibility in combing phases or re-order-ing the phases shown, the CPAP team felt it was important to begin the stream restoration work immediately for the dual purposes of improving habitat and resolving the flooding is-sues on site and on River Road. Each phase of work builds upon the previous phase(s).

Phase One

Phase One A & B Predesign – Informa-tion gathering, survey and consultant pro-curement

3-4 months

Phase One A & B Design and Permit-ting

8-12 months

Phase One A Bidding Period and Construction

6-8 months

Phase One B Bidding Period and Construction

4-6 months

Total for Phase One 20-30 months

Phase Two

Phase Two A & B Predesign – Informa-tion gathering, survey and consultant pro-curement

3 - 4 months

Phase Two A & B Design and Permitting 2 - 3 monthsPhase Two A Bidding Period and

Construction3 - 4 months

Phase Two B Bidding Period and Construction

2 - 3 months

Total for Phase Two 10 - 12 months

Phase Three

Phase Three A - D Predesign – Information gathering, survey and con-sultant procurement

3 - 4 months

Phase Three A - D Design and Permitting 4 - 6 monthsPhase Three A Bidding Period and Con-

struction2 - 3 months

Phase Three B Bidding Period and Con-struction

1 - 2 months

Phase Three C Bidding Period and Con-struction

1 - 2 months

Phase Three D Bidding Period and Con-struction

4 - 6 months

Total for Phase Three 14 – 22 months

Funding the Proposed Palisades Nature Pre-serve

Previous Funding

In 1992 the New Jersey Green Acres Program provided funding for the now proposed Palisades Nature Preserve site which at that time was referred to as the Boulevard East Bird Sanctuary. The Project Agreement is Green Acres Proj-ect #0908-89-055, with a contract date of February 5, 1992. The funding was awarded directly to North Bergen Township. A total of $440,000 was provided through a $220,000 grant and a $220,000 loan, paid back over twenty years by North Bergen Township at a 2% annual interest rate. The funds were used for the following project elements:

1992 Green Acres Grant and Loans

Site Work $18,000Walkways $65,000Footbridges, Ramps, Stairway $91,000Bollards and Fencing $52,000Bluestone and Masonry Wall Work $63,000Archway/Entryways $43,000Landscaping $11,000Benches and Signage $52,000Design and Engineering Consultants $45,000 Total $440,000

Possible Future Funding

As funding the creation of the proposed Palisades Nature Preserve is unlikely to be secured from one source, a sug-gested strategy is to divide the work to be done in various categories and seek multiple funding sources. Example cate-gories include: site cleanup (trash and overgrowth removal), trail construction, stream remediation, educational compo-nents, security measures, and maintenance. Separate strat-egies for funding each component could be developed, with different agencies and foundations approached to address the elements that are of greatest interest to them. Another benefit of this approach is that work could begin on individual components, allowing for the development of momentum to-ward the completion of the entire project.

Public Funds

The primary public funding available for New Jersey parks is the Green Acres Program. Green Acres funding awards cover the costs of construction, engineering, equipment, as-sessments, testing, and planning for public parks.


Green Acres provides low interest (2%) loans and grants to municipal and county governments, and matching grants to nonprofit organizations. More information on Green Acres funding can be obtained at http://www.nj.gov/dep/greena-cres/.

As a separate part of the Green Acres Program, the New Jersey Trails Council administers funds from the Feder-al Highway Administration’s Recreational Trails Program. Grants of up to $24,000 are available from the Council for “Maintenance and restoration of existing trails; development and rehabilitation of trailside and trailhead facilities and trail linkages for trails (e.g., parking, signage, shelters, sanitary facilities); purchase and lease of trail construction and main-tenance equipment; construction of new trails in existing parks.” More information on the New Jersey Trails Coun-cil funds can be obtained at http://www.state.nj.us/dep/park-sandforests/natural/njtrails.html.

A source for funding litter removal may be the New Jersey Clean Communities Program. This funding comes from the State of New Jersey, but is administered by the New Jersey Clean Communities Council, a 501c3 nonprofit. More infor-mation on the New Jersey Clean Communities Program can be obtained at http://njclean.org/.

At the county level, funds for parks are provided through the Hudson County Open Space Trust Fund. However, the most recent funding cycle was for 2013; it is currently unclear what opportunities will be available for future funding through the Open Space Trust. More information on the Hudson County Open Space Trust Fund can be obtained at http://www.hud-soncountynj.org/open-space-recreation-and-historic-preser-vation-advisory-board/. Private and Nonprofit Funds and Resources

A number of private foundations offer grants for the devel-

opment and maintenance of parks and their components. Working with foundations offers a number of advantages be-yond just the funding. First, demonstrating the commitment of private funding is often important in trying to subsequently access public funding. Government grants frequently require private funds be leveraged before public funds are commit-ted, both as a way to maximize resources and to demonstrate public support for a project. Second, a private foundation may choose to stay involved with the proposed project after the initial project is finished, adding to the sustainability of the project. Finally, several of the foundations listed below have a demonstrated expertise in urban park development. That expertise would be helpful as the project moves forward.

Private foundations often do not have a straightforward, competitive application process as with public funding sourc-es. There are not always published guidelines about exactly what they are willing to fund or how much funding they may provide. Instead, they work collaboratively with applicants to develop a project that meets the foundation’s own vision. Each foundation needs to be contacted individually to begin a discussion regarding its interest and its funding process.

The Wallace Foundation works to address the problems of disadvantaged youth in underserved neighborhoods. Im-proving the quality of parks in urban neighborhoods is a significant part of its strategy. The Foundation likes to tie its investments to corresponding research initiatives, and has already produced significant research on the value of urban parks to youth development. An initiative tying the proposed Palisades Nature Preserve to youth environmental education efforts might be a strong strategy in approaching the Wallace Foundation. More information on the Wallace Foundation can be obtained at http://www.wallacefoundation.org/knowl-edge-center/urban-parks/Pages/default.aspx. The MetLife Foundation works in partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation to support partnerships be-tween community groups and police to promote neighbor-hood safety and revitalization, including aesthetics and green

space improvement. Grants range from $15,000 - $25,000. This partnership places an emphasis on public safety in its descriptions, so they may be a good funding option for the site’s security measures. More information on the Local Ini-tiatives Support Corporation can be obtained at http://www.lisc.org/section/ourwork/sc.

The Tiffany and Co. Foundation has a specific focus on ur-ban parks, awarding grants for “Supporting infrastructure and strategic design improvements, rehabilitation and beau-tification efforts in existing parks.” The foundation prioritizes major cities for funding. The Foundation may not consider North Bergen as a major city; however its proximity to New York City may help make a strong case for funding. More in-formation on the Tiffany and Co. Foundation can be obtained at http://www.tiffanyandcofoundation.org/guidelines/parks.aspx.

The Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation offers grants for envi-ronmental projects in New Jersey. The proposed Palisades Nature Preserve activities would actually meet two different objectives for Dodge Foundation funding. First, stream res-toration may meet the Dodge Foundation’s goal to “Increase the quality, function and public accessibility of watersheds through land preservation, resource management, and stew-ardship.” Second, the community-driven process that the Coalition to Preserve the Palisades Cliffs, Inc. has under-taken may meet the Dodge Foundation’s, “Focus on urban greening, particularly through community-led design and de-cision making.” More information on the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation can be obtained at http://www.grdodge.org/what-we-fund/environment/.

Another potential funding source for stream restoration is American Water. This organization funds community-based environmental projects that improve, restore or protect the watersheds, surface water and/or groundwater supplies in communities located within their service area. Streamside buffer restoration is specifically listed among the types of ac-

Public Funds


tivities it supports. American Water is headquartered in New Jersey, and New Jersey is on the list of states served by its grants. Maximum grants are for $10,000. More information on American Water can be obtained at http://www.amwa-ter.com/corporate-responsibility/environmental-sustainabil-ity/environmental-stewardship-and-innovation/environmen-tal-grant-program.html.

The PSE&G Foundation’s funding for sustainable neighbor-hoods includes funding for sustaining parks. There is sepa-rate funding available for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs, so the educational cur-riculum tied to the proposed Palisades Nature Preserve may be a possible target of funding. PSE&G will not serve as the sole funder for a project, so it will be important to have oth-er funding sources identified before contacting them. More information on the PSE&G Foundation can be obtained at http://www.pseg.com/info/community/nonprofit/foundation.jsp.

The American Hiking Society awards grants in the amount of $500 to $5000 to build and maintain hiking trails. The Society looks for projects that improve access and safety, prevent environmental damage, and utilize volunteer labor. Mem-bership in the Alliance of Hiking Organizations is required to apply for grants, so the Coalition to Preserve the Palisades Cliffs, Inc. would have to decide if paying membership fees is a worthwhile investment. More information on the American Hiking Society can be obtained at http://www.americanhik-ing.org/gear-resources/grant-opportunities/.

For maintenance of trails, support is available from the New York New Jersey Trails Conference. This organization does not appear to provide direct funding; however, it does provide free training on trail maintenance for volunteers, and will link potential volunteers to the proposed Palisades Nature Pre-serve. Partnership with the New York New Jersey Trails Con-ference would help to demonstrate to other potential funding

sources that the revitalization of the site is a sustainable long term project. More information on the New York New Jersey Trails Conference can be obtained at http://www.nynjtc.org/panel/getinvolved.

The corporate headquarters for the Vitamin Shoppe is locat-ed in North Bergen. The Vitamin Shoppe Foundation is pri-marily focused on nutrition and multiple sclerosis; parks are not on their agenda. At the same time, their location means that it may be worthwhile to try to pitch the project to the Vitamin Shoppe on the basis of the proposed Palisades Na-ture Preserve’s connection to living a healthy lifestyle. More information on the Vitamin Shoppe Foundation can be ob-tained at http://www.vitaminshoppe.com/content/en/support/help/charitable_giving.jsp.

If there is a need to publicize the proposed Palisades Nature Preserve and the efforts to revitalize it, Greener New Jersey Productions is a nonprofit specifically dedicated to producing media on parks and other open spaces in New Jersey for television, web, radio and educational organizations. The production of a short video could help with community mo-bilization, which could then turn into political support for the revitalization effort. More information on Greener New Jer-sey Productions can be obtained at http://www.greenernew-jersey.org/.

The City Parks Alliance does not provide its own grants, but it maintains an excellent listing of ongoing grant opportuni-ties for the funding of urban parks. More information on the City Parks Alliance can be obtained at http://www.citypark-salliance.org/news-a-events/funding-opportunities.

COMMUNITY VISION PLAN PALISADES NATURE PRESERVE

APPENDIX A: THE “SERRAO REPORT”


APPENDIX A (CONTINUED)


1

NJ APA Community Planning Assistance Program

Palisades Nature Preserve at James J. Braddock County Park Steering Committee Meeting Summary

March 13, 2014

Meeting Summary On March 13, 2014, a meeting of the Palisades Cliff Passive Park Steering Committee was held for the purpose of beginning the vision planning process being conducted by the NJ American Planning Association’s Community Planning Assistance Program’s (CPAP) volunteer team. The meeting program is provided at the end of this summary, along with a list of attendees. Peggy Wong, President of the Coalition to Preserve the Palisades Cliffs opened the meeting with a welcome and introductions. The Coalition is concerned that development will destroy the Palisades, a line of steep cliffs formed about 200 million years ago. The site, which is the subject of this study remains in a natural form. Proposed development in the vicinity includes a 12 story building with 293 residential units, commercial/retail uses, and possibly a 4 or 5 story private antique car club with roof top restaurant. An overview of the study was provided. The Coalition to Preserve the Palisades Cliffs requested planning assistance from the NJ American Planning Association’s Community Planning Assistance Program for the creation of a vision plan for a site in North Bergen on the Palisades. The site is currently closed to visitors and is owned by Hudson County. The site is part of the James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park. It is bordered on the west by (Kennedy) Boulevard East, on north by a property that then borders Bulls Ferry Road, and on the south by the imaginary extension of 79th street down the Palisades. The southern corner of the site is bordered on the east by River Road. The remainder of the eastern border is just west of River Road. Maps indicating the site’s location were available during the meeting. The purpose of the meeting was to extract the Steering Committee member’s thoughts, concerns, ideas and visions for the site. This was done through the use of various CPAP facilitated exercises. All of the information generated at this meeting will help to frame the community visioning meeting and will help to inform the vision plan being prepared by the CPAP team. The CPAP team members conducted several visioning exercises. After completion of the visioning exercises, next steps were discussed. As this is to be a community led vision, the CPAP team will conduct a community visioning meeting on the evening of March 31, 2014. The Coalition to Preserve the Palisades will be responsible for securing a venue and advertising the event.

2

After the community visioning meeting, the CPAP team will prepare a vision plan (with text and conceptual plans) and present that plan to the Steering Committee for comment. A final plan will then be prepared. Provided below are the Steering Committee member’s input as a result of the various exercises performed.

Words that Describe the Current Site bird sanctuary nature preserve palisade cliffs 200 million years water wildlife nice trees beauty garbage overgrown poorly lit drugs

dirty jungle unkempt great potential potential gem tangled undervalued inaccessible locked up/out always locked trails great views

natural obscure underutilized in danger security unsafe invasive plants steep slope extremely hilly stream unstable land historic

Words that Describe the Site in the Future protected overlooks birds animals nature park urban oasis hiking paths/trails relaxation a place to meditate green safe

water family oriented maintained beautiful majestic inspiring desirable trend setting trees painting art photography

educational passive recreation well used serene appreciated retreat improvement value urban planning model access to River Road flora children’s workshops

Key Assets of the Current Site Rare open space in a dense urban area (serene, quiet space) Non-vehicular connection from top to bottom of Palisades, and from there to

the Hudson River Undeveloped 200 million year old geological formation Home to over 40 species of birds and assorted wildlife American Elms 3

Clean air Surface stream Cultural historical artifacts from days of traveling to/from Bull’s Ferry

(remnants of stairs & trail) Change of color through the seasons Vistas/view sheds Potential connection to Hudson River Walkway Great passive park potential Challenges of the Current Site Closed since 2008 No discernable trail poison ivy overgrown slope is unstable illegal dumping downed trees managing surface and storm water (flooding on River Road, avoiding

erosion) crime, violence in blind spots drug activity steepness of site exacerbates blind-spot concerns invasive species managing vegetation on cliff face maintaining visibility of cliff face public perception safe pedestrian access to site difficulty of access for the large machinery to clean up site lack of funding to make the site usable and open it to the public

Challenges for the County (owner of the site) liability & security problem will be major challenge in convincing the

County to reinstate this site as a public facility The County will need to consider the following:

o lighting o cameras o closure at night o balancing nature preservation with avoiding blind spots o the inherent steepness of the site as a challenge to safety o police presence on foot or bicycle: car-based patrols won’t be

adequate to secure site

APPENDIX B: STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING SUMMARY


4

10 Years From Today- Describe the future park Who’s Using the Park? joggers hikers naturalists

artists meditators destination seekers

educators students

What do you hear? “ooooh” & “ahhh” quiet pounding footsteps trickling water falling leaves What do you smell? lovely earthy soil after a rain lilacs

What do you see? a meditator by the stream birds trails big people talking to little people interpretive signage describing trees & birds a donation box benches, maybe made from natural stone the contrast of the City view with the Palisades view What else about the future site? crisp air sunrise shady a destination for the County huckleberries, blueberries the pleasure of the challenge of hiking up the hill a model for other communities – how to “re-start” a nature preserve right here in North Bergen classes on geology no picnic tables (generates too much garbage) no swing-sets no prescribed activity elements How do people get to the site? Public transportation

5

An inviting access for pedestrians: no longer an intimidating highway Bike racks and a bike-share station (provide access to the site, not on the site) Part of a larger loop trail from the Hudson River to the top of the Palisades There are some ADA accessible places within the site Developing a Working Name for the Site (which has been referred to as the ‘Bird Sanctuary’ and the ‘Passive Park’) Words We Like Palisades** habitat preserve river refuge Words We Don’t Like passive recreation New Jersey North Bergen slope

From Hudson County’s perspective, this site is an officially part of the James J. Braddock County Park. The site is not a new park, it already exists within the County park system. James J. Braddock needs to be park of the park’s name. The Steering Committee’s consensus for a working name is: Palisades Nature Preserve at James J. Braddock County Park

Nickname: ‘Palisades Preserve’ or ‘the Preserve’

6

NJ APA Community Planning Assistance Program PALISADES CLIFF PASSIVE PARK STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING

March 13, 2014 Meeting Program

7:00 – 7:10pm Welcome & Introductions Peggy Wong 7:10 – 7:20pm Ice Breaker Colette Santasieri

Overview of the Study/Purpose of the Meeting

Colette Santasieri 7:20 – 7:35pm Key Assets Fiona Akins

7:35 – 7:50pm Current Challenges & Concerns Chelsea Gleis

7:50 – 8:05pm The Future Park Michael Kolber

8:05 – 8:20pm Developing a Working Name Fiona Akins 8:20 – 8:30pm Next Steps Colette Santasieri

APPENDIX B (CONTINUED)


7

Steering Committee Meeting Attendees March 13, 2014

Name Affiliation Joe Rotondi Twsp. of North Bergen Peggy Wong Coalition to Preserve

the Palisades/resident Ninetta Nappi resident of

Stonehenge Jon Miller resident of Watermark Bob Rossi resident of Parker

Imperial Dave Kronick Coalition to Preserve

the Palisades/resident of Parker Imperial

Kathy Friedman Resident of Woodcliff Gardens

Michael Ascolese Hudson County Parks Massiel Ferrara Hudson County

Planning Megan Massey Hudson County

Planning Jodi Jamieson Coalition to Preserve

the Palisades/resident Erika Aiese CPAP Team Michael Kolber CPAP Team Fiona Akins CPAP Team Colette Santasieri CPAP Team John Duda CPAP Team Chelsea Gleis CPAP Team Tom Schulz CPAP Team Lois Fineman CPAP Team

APPENDIX B (CONTINUED)

1

NJ APA Community Planning Assistance Program

Palisades Nature Preserve at James J. Braddock County Park Community Visioning Meeting

North Bergen Library 8411 Bergenline Avenue, North Bergen, New Jersey

March 31, 2014 (6:30 to 8:00 PM)

Meeting Summary

A community visioning meeting was held on March 31, 2014 for the purposes of providing the community an opportunity to express their thoughts, concerns, ideas and visions for a currently closed portion of the James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park. This was done through the use of various facilitated exercises. All of the information generated at this meeting will help inform a community vision plan being prepared by New Jersey American Planning Association’s Community Planning Assistance Program (CPAP) team of volunteers.

Approximately 40 people attended the community visioning meeting. When people arrived, they were asked “Where are you from?” and placed sticky dots on a map indicating where attendees live (if residents - approximate location). Most participants lived within ten blocks of James J. Braddock Park, and lived between Broadway and Boulevard East. There were several residents of the large apartment buildings at Boulevard East and Bull’s Ferry Road at 79th Street and Boulevard East.

Attendees were seated at tables of 6 to 8 people.

Project Overview/Purpose of the Meeting

Peggy Wong, President of the Coalition to Preserve the Palisades Cliffs opened the meeting with a welcome and introductions. She explained that a community vision plan will be prepared by a team consisting of planners, engineers and landscape architects that are volunteering their time through the NJ American Planning Association’s Community Planning Assistance Program (CPAP). She then introduced Dr. Colette Santasieri, the team leader.

Dr. Santasieri provided an overview of the study. The Coalition to Preserve the Palisades Cliffs requested planning assistance from CPAP for the creation of a vision plan for a site in North Bergen on the Palisades. The site is currently closed to visitors and is owned by Hudson County. The site is part of the James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park. She stated that, although the County is supportive of the vision

2

plan effort, there is currently no funding nor plans for reopening this site as a nature preserve.

The site of the proposed Palisades Nature Preserve is bordered on the west by (Kennedy) Boulevard East, on north by a property that then borders Bulls Ferry Road, and on the south by the imaginary extension of 79th Street down the Palisades. The southern corner of the site is bordered on the east by River Road. The remainder of the eastern border is just west of River Road. Maps indicating the site’s location were available during the meeting.

She concluded her comments by telling participants that the purpose of the community visioning meeting was to get their thoughts on what they would like to see in this new nature preserve, and that would be accomplished through a series of exercises. A description of the visioning exercises and the input garnered from the participants in these exercises are provided below. Each table of participants worked as a team for these visioning exercises.

Visioning Exercises

Exercise 1: Imagine

Mike Kolber from the CPAP team led this first visioning exercise. Meeting attendees were asked to “imagine a park that…” They were asked not to think too hard about it, but to simply call out what came to mind. Participants stated what they would like in the proposed park. Below are their comments and major themes:

The natural environment in the park Express the waterfall, and use the storm water flow in the park; Have a repertory of native plant species specific to the palisades; Have flowers; Attract wildlife; the site belongs to the animals that still live there; Offer vistas, and benches and trails that let visitors gaze at and enjoy the views; Promote and enhance the ecological integrity.

The built environment in the park

Clean, litter free, and free of overgrowth (vines and ground cover); Safe; Full of people; Contains art work; Have a band shell, gazebo, and benches; Have a small café and toilets

APPENDIX C: COMMUNITY MEETING SUMMARY


APPENDIX C (CONTINUED)

3

Maintained by community organized volunteers that works with the Hudson County Parks Department;

Provide a green belt connection between the top of the Palisades and Braddock Park and the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway;

Have hiking trails that meander as well as offer connectivity; Facilitate learning through interpretive signage, displays of the history of the

area; and accessibility for schools; Well lighted for evening use (and also heard that the park should be for daylight

hours only); Have lights along the nature path, as well as safety barriers; Have dog restrictions, yet also be pet friendly (also heard have a dog park); Host concerts and other events; Have a presence via facebook or other social media; Smoke free; Handicapped accessible to the extent possible; Contain a small children’s zoo; Have rock climbing; Have a wishing well;

Exercise 2: Suitable Uses

Fiona Akins led this exercise. Participants were asked to: prioritize pre-printed word cards describing different possible uses in the park, come up with some of their own possible uses, and exclude some uses they felt would be unsuitable. Overwhelmingly, the preferred uses focused on passive recreation, being able to enjoy wildlife, and taking in views, although all agreed that cutting down trees to make more views was not desirable. Participants wanted to “breathe in nature”, to relax with family, to have a quiet zone to meditate and to relax, to have a connection from the top to the bottom of the site, and to have learning opportunities there, such as a place where an outdoor class could be held. Participants also wanted to have an opportunity to enjoy the water (the stream and the waterfall). As far as amenities, some people wanted a small vendor and a water fountain, but by and large no one wanted to see the natural environment disrupted.

Uses that the participants deemed unsuitable included: picnicking, mountain biking, jogging, and leaving the site as is (doing nothing with it).

Exercise 3: Sketch and Label

Kim Matthews and John Duda led this final exercise. Participants were given aerial photographic maps with transparent paper on top and asked to sketch what this park

4

might contain. Emphasis was on broad ideas, not accurate drawings. Participants were also asked to label each element of the park.

Participants sketched and noted the following:

Trails: easy walking area, trails that fit with the contours, trails that follow the stream, handicapped accessible, steps built into slope with natural rock, provide an alternative challenge trail

Vistas: viewing areas with line of sight to the river

Flora and Fauna: native plants, remove vines and groundcover where thick, keep it natural, provide wildflowers, reflecting/flat pool or pool

Built Environment: keep public out at night, reflecting/flat pool or pool, archway entrance with concession stand, provide trash receptacles and benches,

Other: Quiet zones

Wrap-up/Next Steps

The main themes of the meeting were that people wanted this park to be a natural place amid the built up environment that surrounds the area of Hudson County. While James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park, which is across the street from the proposed nature preserve is quite large, it has ball fields, play grounds, and a lake, but virtually no wooded natural areas. People saw this proposed nature preserve as an opportunity to get closer to nature, as well as a potential safe and relaxing connection between the waterfront and the “uplands”.

Dr. Santasieri explained that the CPAP team would be creating a vision plan which will be submitted to the Coalition to Preserve the Palisades Cliffs. This vision plan would reflect what was heard at the meeting and could be used by the Coalition and the County should they start to seek funding and support for making the park a reality. She explained that the vision plan should be completed by the end of May.

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Palisades Nature Preserve at James J. Braddock County Park Community Visioning Meeting

March 31, 2014

Meeting Program

6:30 - 6:45 Registration Mike Kolber, Fiona Akins

Where are you from? Exercise Lois Goldman

6:45 – 7:00 Welcome Peggy Wong

Project Overview/Purpose of the Meeting Colette Santasieri

7:00 – 7:50 Visioning Exercises

Exercise: I Imagine A Park That Is… Mike Kolber

Exercise: Suitable Uses Fiona Akins

Exercise: Sketch and Label Kim Mathews, John Duda

7:50 – 8:00 Wrap-up Colette Santasieri


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Meeting Attendees

CPAP Team of Volunteers

Colette Santasieri

Fiona Akins

John Duda

Chelsea Gleis

Lois Goldman

Michael Kolber

Ryan Kovac

Kim Mathews

Michael Viscardi

Tom Schultz, NJ APA Community Planning Assistance Program Director

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Government & Nonprofit

Community Vision Plan for the Palisades Nature Preserve