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03-10-2015 informational presentation_201503121133143155
TowN OF WATERTOWN OPEN SPACE And RECREATION PLAN 2015 Update / Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 March 6, 2015 DRAFT 3-6-15 DRAFT 2 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 This page intentionally left blank. 3-6-15 DRAFT 3 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLEOF FIGURES..........................................................................................................................................6 SECTION 1 -PLAN SUMMARY.........................................................................................................................7 SECTION 2-INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................................8 A. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE....................................................................................................................8 B. PLANNING PROCESS AND PUBLIC PARTICIPATION.........................................................................8 SECTION 3-COMMUNITY SETTING............................................................................................................ 10 A. REGIONAL CONTEXT........................................................................................................................... 10 B. COMMUNITYHISTORY........................................................................................................................ 12 C. POPULATION CHARACTERISTICS.................................................................................................. 14 D. GROWTHAND DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS................................................................................... 19 E. ANALYSIS OF COMMUNITY INFRASTR UCTURE................................................................................24 SECTION 4-ENVIRONMENTAL INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS................................................................27 A. GEOLOGY, SOILS AND TOPOGRAPHY...............................................................................................27 B. LANDSCAPE CHARACTER...................................................................................................................29 C. WATER RESOURCES.........................................................................................................................29 D. VEGETATION....................................................................................................................................32 E. FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE..................................................................................................................32 F. SCENIC RESOURCES AND UNIQUE ENVIRONMENTS......................................................................33 G. ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES....................................................................................................36 SECTION 5-INVENTORY OF LANDS-CONSERVATION AND RECREATION INTEREST......................39 A. INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................................................39 B. PRIVATELY OWNED PARCELS OF SIGNIFICANT INTEREST............................................................50 C. PUBLICLY OWNED PARCELS(INCLUDING TOWN, PARK&CEMETERYACRES)......................54 D. STATE AND FEDERALLY OWNED OPEN SPACE PARCELS...........................................................97 SECTION 6-COMMUNITY GOALS.............................................................................................................. 101 A. DESCRIPTION OF PROCESS.............................................................................................................. 101 B. STATEMENT OF OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION GOALS............................................................. 102 SECTION 7-ANALYSIS OF NEEDS ............................................................................................................. 104 A. SUMMARY OF RESOURCE PROTECTION NEEDS............................................................................ 104 B. SUMMARY OF COMMUNITYNEEDS................................................................................................. 104 C. MANAGEMENT NEEDS................................................................................................................... 107 SECTION 8-GOALS AND OBJECTIVES...................................................................................................... 109 GOALS......................................................................................................................................................... 109 OBJECTIVES............................................................................................................................................... 110 SECTION 9-SEVEN-YEAR ACTION PLAN................................................................................................. 113 GOAL 1:IMPROVE THE AMOUNT,ACCESSIBILITY,AND CONDITION OF WA TER TOWN'S RECREATIONAL RESOURCES................................................................................................................... 114 GOAL 2: PRESERVE, PROTECT,AND ENHANCE PUBLICLY OWNED CONSERVATION, PASSIVE,AND ACTIVE OPEN SPACE................................................................................................................................. 116 GOAL 3: ENCOURAGE PRIVATE LANDOWNERS TO PERMANENTLYPRESERVE OPEN SPACE ON THEIRPARCELS......................................................................................................................................... 117 GOAL 4: CREATE NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR RECREATIONAL ACCESS ALONG THE CHARLES RIVER, SUCHAS BOATING, TRAIL NETWORKS, BICYCLING,AND APPROPRIATE RELATED AMENITIES.................................................................................................................................................. 117 GOAL 5: AGGRESSIVELYSEEK NEW FUNDING SOURCES FOR THE ENHANCEMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF THE TOWN'S OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION RESOURCES............................... 118 GOAL 6: MAKE WATERTOWN FRIENDLIER TO PEDESTRIANS AND BICYCLISTS AND PROMOTE ACTIVE AND HEALTHYLIFESTYLES........................................................................................................ 118 GOAL 7: IMPROVE THE URBANFOREST............................................................................................... 120 GOAL 8: IMPROVE OUTREACHAND EDUCATION............................................................................... 121 GOAL 9: IMPROVE SAFETYIN OPEN SPACE AND RECREATIONAREAS............................................ 122 3-6-15 DRAFT 4 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 SECTION 10-PUBLIC COMMENTS............................................................................................................. 124 LETTER FROMMICHAEL DRISCOLL, WATERTOWN TOWNMANAGER............................................... 124 LETTER FROMJOHNHAWES, CHAIR, WATERTOWNPLANNING BOARD............................................ 124 SECTION 11 REFERENCES (THIS WILL BE UPDATED).................................................................................... 125 APPENDIXA................................................................................................................................................... 126 SECTION504 REPORT(ADA).................................................................................................................... 126 SECTION504 REPORT(ADA).................................................................................................................... 127 3-6-15 DRAFT 5 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 TABLE OF FIGURES Figure1 — Regional Context.................................................................................................................................. 11 Figure2—Watertown, 1895................................................................................................................................... 12 Figure 3—Median Household Income by Type....................................................................................................... 15 Figure 4—Median Household Income..................................................................................................................... 16 Figure 5—Environmental Justice Populations.......................................................................................................... 18 Figure6—Watertown Zoning Map.........................................................................................................................21 Figure 7—Watertown Comprehensive Plan Existing Land Use................................................................................22 Figure 8—Watertown Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use..................................................................................23 Figure9—Soil Type...............................................................................................................................................28 Figure10—Water Resources..................................................................................................................................30 Figure11 —Unique Features Map...........................................................................................................................35 Figure 12—Open Space and Recreation Resources Inventory.................................................................................44 Figure13 -Charles River........................................................................................................................................98 Figure 14—Greenough Greenway project map...................................................................................................... 100 Figure 15—Seven-year Action Plan...................................................................................................................... 123 3-6-15 DRAFT 6 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 SECTION 1 - PLAN SUMMARY The 2015 Watertown Open Space and Recreation Plan Update has been developed to provide a renewed policy statement for ensuring the protection of the Town's open space and recreational resources. The purpose of this plan is to: 1) review the goals and objectives set forth in the 2005 Open Space and Recreation Plan Update, 2) note which of those goals were achieved 3) review current open space and recreational needs of residents 4) set new goals and objectives for the next seven years and 5) provide a framework to effect changes in determining Watertown's course as it copes with development and redevelopment, and new community interests and concerns. The updating process includes comparing goals and objectives set forth in the 2005 Open Space and Recreation Plan to the current needs and concerns of Watertown residents today. Since the 2005 Plan, there has been little change in the amount of new publicly owned open space. During this time, most of the Town's playgrounds have been renovated and new equipment and surfaces have been installed. Additionally, recent street and sidewalk upgrades have improved access to several of the Town's open spaces and parks. New bicycle trails are being built or planned and recreational opportunities along the Charles River are being enhanced. The Town has recently completed a new Comprehensive Plan - its first since 1988. The Comprehensive Plan addresses current land use issues, particularly along the Pleasant and Arsenal Street corridors and other areas that are likely to see new redevelopment in the coming years. The intensification of development has many residents concerned about the potential impact to their neighborhoods and realizing the significance of open space on privately owned parcels throughout the Town. In conjunction with the Town's new Comprehensive Plan, this plan update will provide the various town departments, commissions, and committees a basis for consistent direction in regard to decisions affecting development, zoning, acquisition, maintenance, and preservation of open space and/or recreation areas through 2022. Watertown's Open Space and Recreation Plan has been compiled in accordance with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Environmental Affairs, Division of Conservation Services, requirements and guidelines. The State requires that all municipalities submit an Open Space and Recreation Plan in order to be eligible for state and federal grant aid offered through the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs. 3-6-15 DRAFT 7 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 SECTION 2 - INTRODUCTION A. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE The primary purpose of this Plan is to identify Watertown's open space and recreational resources and to produce a consistent policy directive for town agencies, in order to ensure that these resources are not lost due to the pressures of development or uncoordinated individual actions that affect the Town's open space and recreational system. This Plan aims to facilitate a consistent policy directive regarding development and preservation of public and private properties as they collectively comprise Watertown's open space and recreational system. This Plan also serves as the Town's policy directive regarding specific goals, objectives, and actions for the coming seven years with regard to open space and recreation. B. PLANNING PROCESS AND PUBLIC PARTICIPATION The public participation process for the Open Space and Recreation Plan Update took place in concurrence with the development of the Watertown Comprehensive Plan. A series of four public forums were organized from March 2013 to June 2014, each of which addressed open space and recreation resources in the Town. During the first public forum on March 21, 2013, the Town facilitated discussions on planning issues and opportunities for Watertown's squares, major corridors and neighborhoods. Valuable public input was collected on a number of key themes, including land use, transportation, economic development, and open space and recreation in the community. Electronic polling was also conducted during the public forum which included specific questions on the open space and recreation needs of the community, especially in key areas of the Town such as the Charles River corridor. Based on public input from the first forum, draft Open Space and Recreation vision and goals were developed. The second public forum on May 20, 2013 offered an opportunity for the public to comment on and further refine the draft. The final Open Space and Recreation goals have been combined with relevant goals from the 2005 Open Space and Recreation Plan, which are presented in Sections 6 and 8 of this Plan. The third public forum was hosted on October 19, 2013 to review the goals and strategies from the draft Comprehensive Plan and to identify key priorities and implementation actions for the Town. Four breakout sessions were organized, including one for open space, recreation, and natural/cultural resources, to offer the public another opportunity to provide input on open space and recreation needs and the priority actions that meet these needs. In addition to the public forums, the Comprehensive Plan used MindMixer as a platform for interactive, online participation throughout the planning process. A number of open space and recreation topics were featured on the MindMixer site to solicit public input on specific types of open space and recreation resources in Watertown as well as on implementation strategies to enhance Watertown's recreation opportunities. The Watertown Comprehensive Plan MindMixer site was among the top three active sites in the country, indicating a successful and effective online 3-6-15 DRAFT 8 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 public participation process for both the Comprehensive Plan and the Open Space and Recreation Plan Update. (see Appendix XX for a summary of the MindMixer results). On the heels of the Comprehensive Plan update, the planning process for the Open Space and Recreation Plan Update continued with a review of the 2005 Open Space and Recreation Plan to identify and assess open space and recreational changes since the last plan and develop open space and recreational priorities consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. 3-6-15 DRAFT 9 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 SECTION 3 - COMMUNITY SETTING A. REGIONAL CONTEXT The Town of Watertown participates in the Metropolitan Area Planning Commission's Inner Core Sub-region. The Inner Core Committee consists of twenty-one cities and towns within the metropolitan Boston area. Because they are many of the most urban and populous within the MAPC planning area, Inner Core communities deal with a host of unique challenges, including the provision of open space and recreational opportunities in a diverse and densely populated sub- region. Given the complexity of issues facing these communities, the Inner Core Committee emerged as a forum through which issues of mutual concern could be explored and joint and cooperative action fostered. Committee membership is granted to each of the following communities: Arlington, Belmont, Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Lynn, Malden, Medford, Melrose, Milton, Needham, Newton, Quincy, Revere, Saugus, Somerville, Waltham, Watertown and Winthrop. As part of the development of this Plan, the Town referred to the regional goals and priorities from MAPC's regional plan, MetroFuture. Updated in June 2009, MetroFuture is the official regional smart growth plan for the Greater Boston area. The plan includes goals and objectives, along with thirteen detailed implementation strategies for accomplishing these goals. Several examples of how this Plan is consistent with MetroFuture include: • Implementation Strategy 3 - The adoption of the Community Preservation Act provides flexibility in local revenue generation to strengthen municipal finance. • Implementation Strategy 6 - The Watertown OSRP strongly advocates for increased bicycle, pedestrian, and transit accessibility. Additionally, the overarching purpose of this Plan is to improve urban parks through by coordinating park planning, leveraging funding for park maintenance, increasing and maintaining the tree canopy, expanding community garden opportunities and protecting natural resources (particularly along the Charles River corridor). • Implementation Strategy 7 - As demonstrated in this Plan, the recommendations provide support for the protection and preservation of natural resources. Additionally, this Plan includes discussion of land preservation on a regional basis, particularly as it relates to the Charles River and the new pedestrian and bicycle connections with adjacent communities. This is consistent with the MetroFuture goal of encouraging regional efforts to protect open space and natural resources - particularly ones that cross municipal borders. 3-6-15 DRAFT 10 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 - EN DFO RLIN EV TT 0 0 EL LE WAL AM TE T - � IN1 J BOSTON , _ r BO — OSTON EWT BROO INE BO�4 {, ON T 3L `tea EDH Figure 1 — Regional Context Located along the banks of the Charles River, Watertown is a dense community on the immediate outskirts of Boston (see Regional Context Map). With only 4.1 square miles and a population of 31,915 people, Watertown is often seen as a way point to other destinations, typically the outer suburbs beyond Route 128 or to central Boston. This diverse suburb, however, provides its residents with a close-knit community, prime access to economic/medical/education centers, and a rich 375 year old history going back to America's earliest colonial heritage. The central "core" of the Town revolves around Watertown Square which is at the intersection of six major streets. This intersection is also a key terminus for commuters accessing public transportation into and out of Boston and Cambridge. The Square is close to the town hall, post office, banks, auto sales/repair businesses, and several retailers and restaurants. Watertown is often associated with the U.S. Army Arsenal located on Arsenal Street. The Arsenal has had regional employment, economic, and transportation influence from its introduction 180 years ago to its closure in 1995. Many of the Arsenal property's buildings were preserved and redeveloped into the Arsenal on the Charles. Previous closure of segments of the Arsenal in the mid-1970's led to the re-use as the Arsenal Mall, Arsenal Park, a Harvard Vanguard medical facility and an elderly housing complex. 3-6-15 DRAFT 11 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Another regionally significant landmark of Watertown is the Mt. Auburn Cemetery, a 175 acre (164 are in Watertown), semi-public open space with numerous pathways that meander through the well-kept arboretum. Watertown's most renowned natural feature of regional interest is its proximity to the Charles River which partly serves as the municipal boundary with Newton, its neighbor to the south, and provides major opportunities for passive recreation. B. COMMUNITY HISTORY Founded in 1630, Watertown has been described as the "mother town" as it was one of America's earliest colonial settlements and served as an entry into the heartland of America for early settlers. These early arrivals to the "New World" were welcomed by Native Americans of the Pequossette Tribe (a sub-tribe of the Massachusetts Indians) who had a long-established tribal network strategically situated to access the many natural bounties of the Charles River. Early colonial accounts of the area describe the abundance of bass, salmon, and herring making their way to and from the sea for spawning. The early town boundaries encompassed much of what is now Belmont as well as portions of Waltham and Cambridge. Originally a transit point into the early colonial frontier, in the early 19th century Watertown evolved to become an active industrial community (see Map: View of Watertown, Mass, 1879). Earlier examples of manufacturing and milling can be found, such as the Mayhew Mill, which was built in 1634 as a water-driven corn mill and continued in operation for over two hundred years. Damming the Charles River became commonplace by the early 1800's providing water power for various industries such as cotton weaving, sail making, and linen cleaners. Raw materials and finished products were shipped via water to the port at Boston Harbor and continued on to their final destinations throughout the new nation and the rest of the world. The new nation's need for munitions found Watertown to be ideally located for such manufacturing. Thus the U.S. Army Arsenal was founded in 1816 and continued in operation until its complete closure in 1995. At its height of operations before World War I, the Watertown Arsenal employed over sixteen hundred people and covered an area of over eighty acres. w y.:: •..0 sue-- •i ��, �. xw�a- 144 Figure 2 — Watertown, 1895 Other major industries included the Stanley Steamer Automobile Company, the world's first, and arguably most renowned, steam driven automobile which was a precursor to the modern internal combustion era of automobiles. The Hood Rubber Company (subsequently owned by B.F. Goodrich), located in East Watertown, was established in 1896 and operated until 1969. It served 3-6-15 DRAFT 12 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 as a major supplier of rubber products throughout both the First and Second World Wars. At its height of operations in 1920, the Hood Rubber Company employed over ten thousand men and women, many of whom were immigrants from Armenia, Ireland, and Canada. With a burgeoning industrial base, housing became a major concern in the early 20th century. Typical development patterns ensued in which industrial workers settled near the factories of East Watertown and the mills along Pleasant Street west of Watertown Square (see 1903 USGS Topographic Map). The northern and northwestern areas of town were developed from large estates, orchards, and farms, some of which dated back to the mid 1600's. One such estate located on Common Street Hill (also known as Strawberry Hill) was that of the Otis family of Boston; this estate was later renamed "The Oakley" for the numerous oak trees that dotted the estate's forty-five acres. Today the remnants of the Oakley estate are part of the Oakley Country Club, one of America's first golf courses. Although most of the Town's industries have long since departed, Watertown's housing patterns continue to reflect the earlier socio-economic landscape of the past century. Larger homes and lots in the northern and northwestern segments of the Town give way to higher population density and more urban development as one moves from the northern border with Belmont to the southern and eastern edges that border on Cambridge and Newton where factories once operated. Much of the Town's economic activity is concentrated on Arsenal Street, in Watertown Square, and along a few other commercial corridors. The Arsenal Mall, a 225,000 square foot redevelopment, opened in 1983. The remainder of the historic Watertown Arsenal buildings were converted to civilian uses in 1995, and is now a commercial and office complex known as the Arsenal on the Charles. There are several redevelopment projects moving through the permitting process along the Arsenal Street corridor that can transform the area. Two formerly industrial areas, Pleasant Street and Coolidge Hill, have evolved over time. Pleasant Street now has a mix of industrial, wholesale, office, research and development, and multifamily housing developments along its corridor. Coolidge Hill is primarily a residential and neighborhood retail area, with some manufacturing still located there. During the past 300 years, the Charles River along its length has changed from a bountiful aquatic habitat to a polluted waterway, damaged by former use as an open sewer for industrial and human wastes. It was reborn as a "water parkway" in the late 1890's only to decline in the mid-20th century and then be rediscovered as a regional recreational asset. In Watertown, industrial effluent began in the early 1800's with such industries as Lewando's Cleansing and Dying Company on Pleasant Street, Whitney Paper Mill on Morse Street, and the Aetna Mills on Bridge Street. Today,with most of Watertown's industries gone, effluent into the Charles continues to a much lesser degree from smaller sources like surface runoff, isolated spills, and improper sewer tie- ins from households and municipal storm sewers. The Charles River is no longer an industrial asset, but a natural one. The river has begun to rebound with aquatic life, improved water quality ratings, and a significant return of recreational activities such as the annual "Run of the Charles". Additionally, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) continues to make improvements to the Charles River Reservation land that enhances open space and recreational opportunities for Watertown's residents and visitors. 3-6-15 DRAFT 13 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 C. POPULATION CHARACTERISTICS The population of Watertown in the 2010 U.S. Census, 31,915, represents a 3.2% decrease since 2000. Watertown's highest population was recorded in the mid-1960's (40,115) and has steadily decreased since then. Nevertheless, the population seems to have stabilized in recent years around 31,000 to 32,000. Within the 2010 population of 31,915, 84.9% was identified as White. Other ethnicities represented include 3% Black or African American, 0.1%American Indian and Alaska Native, 7.2% Asian, 2.1% Some Other Race, and 2.7% Two or More Races. In comparison, the 2000 Census identified 91.4% of the total population of 32,986 as White, 1.7% as Black or African American, 0.2% as American Indian and Alaska Native, 3.9% as Asian, 0.9% as Some Other Race, and 1.9% as Two or More Races. The ancestral heritage of Watertown's population has undergone many changes since the original British Puritan exodus to America. Waves of Irish, Canadian, Italian, and Armenian immigration have all contributed to Watertown's heritage. The largest of these groups are Irish (21%) and Italian (19.5%) according to the 2010 U.S. Census. Many Armenians, fleeing persecution of the Ottoman Empire of the early twentieth century, settled in Watertown and comprise the third largest Armenian population in the United States. Their history is recorded in the Armenian Library Museum at Watertown Square. Many early immigrants found work at the Hood Rubber Company and Arsenal of East Watertown and were able to set up residence in these areas. Today, Watertown's ethnic and ancestral heritage is evident with numerous community centers, churches, and markets with southeastern European and central Asian origins. According to the 2010 U.S. Census, Watertown's elderly population (over age 65) comprises approximately 15% of the Town's total population. Children (under age 19) comprise 16.9%. These populations changed slightly from 2000 to 2010 as the elderly population decreased by 1.7% and the children population increased by 0.4%. Out of all households 12.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. During the 2000's, the number of households grew by about 0.5%, as the average household size fell from 2.17 person/household in 2000 to 2.15 in 2010. The households consisted of 38.7% married couples living together, with 49.6%being non- families. This could mean program adjustments in many of the Town's parks as its residents require different activities due to changes in family conditions, the aging of the population, and as a greater emphasis is placed on healthy living. 3-6-15 DRAFT 14 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Median Household Income by Type, 2010 90,000 84,156 80,000 74,081 70,000 64,615 60,000 50,000 47,784 3 40,000 8,438 30,000 20,000 10,000 Townwide Owner Renter 25 years and under 65 years and over Figure 3 —Median Household Income by Type In 2010, the median household income in Watertown was $74,081 (see Figure 3). This represents a 24% increase from $59,764 in 2000, after being adjusted for inflation. Watertown's median household income is 14.8% above the state median income in 2010. In 2010, about 7.5% of families and 10.5% of the population were considered below the poverty line. The income ranges can be seen across census block groups in Figure - 4 Median Household Income Map. 3-6-15 DRAFT 15 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Figure 4—Median Household Income The average population density of Watertown is 7,765 per square mile, though it varies significantly across its boundaries. Watertown is about average for communities in the Boston metro area, but significantly higher than the state average of 839 people per square mile (Massachusetts has the fifth highest density in the country). Although Watertown covers only 4.11 square miles, there are several distinct neighborhoods as one moves from the highly dense East Watertown to the less dense and more affluent north central and northwestern sections of the town. According to the 2010 U.S. Census, there were a total of 15,348 housing units in Watertown, 14,709 of which are occupied. Fifty-two percent of all occupied units are owner occupied. In 2010, the median value of owner occupied housing units was $431,600, approximately 22.5% higher than the state average. Approximately 53.3% of housing units in Watertown were built prior to 1960. As southern Watertown extends across the Charles River toward Newton, there is a complex mix of commercial and residential development. Century-old multi-family structures abutting commercial structures with inadequate parking are commonplace. Watertown has a labor force of about 20,125. In 2010, approximately 4.3% of the work force were unemployed, which has been on the rise in recent years. In 2010,Watertown had 1,103 industries of which 1,063 were privately held. This number has changed only moderately over the last decade. Of these, the largest employment sectors included "Professional and Business Services" (22.1%) and "Trade, Transportation and Utilities" (18.5%). These two sectors comprised 40.6% of the employment in the Town while also providing 40.5% of total wages. Other proportionately large employment sectors in the Town included "Education and Health Services" (15.9%), 3-6-15 DRAFT 16 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 "Financial Activities" (10.5%), and "Information" (10.2%). Manufacturing, at one point one of the highest, is continually decreasing over the years and was the 7th highest employment sector (5.4%). Of the employed residents 25% worked in Boston, 17% stayed in Watertown, 12% commuted to Cambridge, while the rest traveled to other adjacent communities. Another important aspect of Watertown's population characteristics is the Environmental Justice Population. According to the 2010 Environmental Justice Population data provided by MassGIS, 6 census block groups, out of a total of 29 census block groups in Watertown, were identified as Environmental Justice (EJ) Populations. These EJ populations are the result of either minority or foreign born populations exceeding 25 percent of the total block group population. These EJ populations were located in two clusters in the West End and East End neighborhoods and accounted for 19.7% of the entire population in Watertown. •****• Environmental justice populations are those segments of the population that include high percentages of minority and low-income people that may experience disproportionately high and adverse human health and environmental impacts. •00000 The location of each EJ population block group as well as a breakdown of the demographics for these EJ populations is presented in Figure 5 - Environmental Justice Populations. 3-6-15 DRAFT 17 hx n.Wpref.WaIDf�]W.00.WS Vryue�O5RPi0�5_g P^Pwowmc BELMONT WALTiiAM d —_; 1 , CAIYfBRlOGE �� r,�e�s++Er S Py 's&• c 3 � NEWTON eoa �� �w ,s,w.7�- .L �1 _�_ �► BpSTDN �■ t n _ Legend sa,rco:Rlassolu F,9Vgy j ental�y,pp P4pw0gpJn Laairwon,2010 Wren 2o1e 2010 Environmental JusDce Populations Block Gmup ID ToW Population Tots!Househalds Nadion Household Ineom Psrcen1 of Minority Population Op Space a.M Recr Ua PW Updwl 1 1,410 627 $5901 25.3% W.I.n r.MAL 2 1.697 $57.361 39,5% 3 w $0,636 �1_7% 4 1110 9pj 93,417 25.8% 5 223 9d $117,936 37.2% I 6 6w 291 $M.021 26.9% Figure 5— Environmental Justice Populations D. GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS Due to compact size of the Town at four square miles and the already dense development, there are very limited opportunities for new development. Nearly all development occurs as a result of a reuse or rebuild of an existing structure. It is very difficult for the Town to mitigate constraints such as limited land availability and environmental concerns. Watertown's land use by zoning district consists of 56.6% residential, 5.2% business, 19.1% industrial and 19% open space/conservancy (see Figure 6 - Watertown Zoning Map). Of Watertown's housing stock in 2010, 32.1% are single family, 37% are two-family, 11.4% are three to four-family and 19.2% contain five or more units. Since the 2005 Plan, growth has been limited mostly to residential and commercial infill development, characterized by the removal of existing structures to facilitate structures of higher density. The general land use trend indicates that commercial uses are steadily growing while industrial land is declining. Residential uses, with limited land available for new development, are expanding through redevelopment of vacant and underutilized parcels and increased density along certain corridors, most notably Pleasant Street (see Figure 7 - Watertown Comprehensive Plan Existing Land Use). Single-family residential areas are primarily concentrated in the west end of the Town and in the upper middle portion near the Oakley Country Club. Two-family and other multi-family residential uses cover large areas in the mid-east and mid-west part of the Town, and are also distributed in the southern part of the Town on both sides of the Charles River. The distribution of residential land reflects the history of housing development in close proximity to the streetcar lines along Mt. Auburn Street, Belmont Street, and Galen Street, and later expanding to the west side of the town. Commercial uses, on the other hand, have shaped distinctive nodes and corridors throughout the community. There are three major commercial nodes, each with unique characteristics. Watertown Square, located near the crossing of the Charles River and serving as a crossroad at the present time, is characterized by a mix of commercial and retail uses, as well as river views segregated by major roads. There is little residential development in Watertown Square, with some two, and multi-family buildings mostly located on the periphery. Coolidge Square, located on the northeast side of town, has a stronger appearance as a village center populated by neighborhood retail stores and specialty food establishments. Along Arsenal Street, the major commercial activity is dominated by the Arsenal Mall, Watertown Mall, and a number of office buildings. Anchored by these main commercial nodes, five major corridors expand to the east, west, and south of Watertown Square. Arsenal Street, as the Town's main spine in the south connecting directly to Boston, is an important gateway to the Town and possesses the most significant potential for positive land use change. There is significant development interest in Arsenal Street that can transform it into a more vibrant mixed use environment for people to live, work, and play. Several proposals will likely to be advanced including a proposed hotel on the site of the former Saab dealership, the redevelopment of the Arsenal Mall into a more densely developed mixed use project(including the Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 potential for some residential uses) that will bring the buildings closer to the street and add a number of amenities, and the redevelopment of Arsenal on the Charles by athenahealth into a campus with a mix of office and retail uses. Additionally, a proposal has been submitted and is under review by the Town to develop a site near the intersection of Arsenal and Irving Streets for an approximately 300 residential unit complex and 37,000 square feet of commercial space that could include a grocery store. The Pleasant Street corridor is also being transformed. New zoning was adopted in 2008 to encourage a mix of uses including residential, office, research and development, hotel and retail. Since then, several major residential developments sprouted along the corridor, introducing hundreds of rental units into this part of the Town. While these new projects further stimulated redevelopment of the Pleasant Street corridor, the impacts have been controversial among various stakeholder groups, particularly local residents. Concerns include traffic congestion, decreased pedestrian safety, impeded view and access to the riverfront, and unappealing aesthetics resulting from large-scale developments perceived as being not set back sufficiently from either the street or the river, although they often are set back further than pre-existing uses. Although concerns were raised regarding impeded views and access to the river, it should be noted that visual access is limited from Pleasant Street as a result of existing buildings, trees, and topography. Also, access to the river is available, but could be enhanced by better signage. 3-6-15 DRAFT 20 ZONING WN11-1t'1 ONO N SQUARE MAP OF WA EI; I OWN �# .-- s MASSAL'HUS1•ATS �. t�� \ x :LS ANJJLNDLD:Jdv 8.2008 p $ ST ... P� �" �..,,q')'1�,.� :.-•�`T. � r °�*..,, ._.._ c3'§ � � ���q���,�a y CAivl'BRIDGE .r f. -.,I!i '`,.a 4 P '� g.8 deg e • _ f -� V ':Y n,'p°ro-...?' •w.w.r Mmas 1 -s` lye 4 q °�' ' fc ../J,1 1`Wn?.• �°}� ..,._4� /y. s� iaaF e�• .�- a ..fl = •mow�8 .. �� NEWTON 1 ST•� .�..,w.,�� l —=�_ ----`���� .� ,�� - �o ors ASAP i.x[:1'N0 ZONING 1]ISI'RI(I'S M CLUSTERRESIDENRAL OVERLAY DIS l'RI(I S PROPERTY LINE 9RIDGe -CENTRAL W&HESS RESIDENTIAL 75 HISTORIC OVERLAY DISTRICT ROAD _DAM LIMITED 8USINESS RESIDENTIAL 1.2 ASSISTED LIVING OVERLAY .N —TOWN LINE DOCK -NE IGN6ORM)OD BUSINESS -SINGLE FAMILY IS-I% ;;:,:ARSENAL OVERLAY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT WATER c vm o w v,INWSTRIA.L-1 "SHJGLE FAMILY ISL} PESIpN OVERLAY DISTRICT �—r w 13 "k=j INDUSTRIAL-2 SINGLE FAYII LY CONVERSION RELIGI0LISOSC11OOL BUILDING OVERLAY -INDOSTRIpL-3 TVA FAMILY LIMITED REDEVELOPMENT DISTRICT Map lest L;pdmeci JL-7.2%S .S _PLEASANT STREET CORRIDOR OPEN SPACECONSERVANCY F'11 ReV fALIZATION OVERLAY MTRICT Figure 6—Watertown Zoning Map Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Hm YnAbWoM1Wxl➢VIRSI.WIIPPrgn�YaM�iaJxwiV�ad f ' BELMONT WALTHAM f # r t CAMBRIDGE r i►'+ .;• -�"' y�` •�`. `�r:1 1, rip Ik t ~ r • ■ i . " _ •`fir► #I�.! _ NEWTON J BOSTON n Brusilin,Inc. Existing Land Use in Watertown, t Land Use Type s«1r<.:w.[W—A....:W.°'t b' re.r 2013 Single Family -office _Utility, -Non-profit and Religious -State-Other c May Two Family -Indoor Recreational Facilities -Public Service Properties Cemeteries -Housing Authority wn•ncw"•'"^ Other Residential Outdoor Recreational Facilities Child Care Facilities Vacant Land-Developable Town-owned -Retail Trade -Manufacturing and Processing Transient Group Quarters -Vacant Land-Undevelopahle Other -Automotive Safes and Services Storage and Distritlution Facilities -Private Schools -State-OCR Figure 7—Watertown Comprehensive Plan Existing Land Use 3-6-15 DRAFT 22 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 r Future Land Use Map Wcrier&mn 013 Comprehensive Plan Siraregies .� BELMON7 sue; WALTHAM •� l*•� CAM6R14GE • S ORRY.1,k T� M NEWTON - BOSTON Legend Town Boundaries(Watertown/Others) Established Comme0al5quare5 Low Density Residential Neighborhood Commercial Streets(Watertown/Other,) .. Retail CentersBlocks Medium Density Residential Regional Mixed Use �. Open Water —.wk Neighborhood and Commuter Connections High Density Residential Community Amenities and Schools Open Space in Neighboring Communities Residential Mixed Use Industrial Commercial Mond Use Offrceflndustrial Mixed Use Figure 8— Watertown Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use 3-6-15 DRAFT 23 The 2015 Watertown Comprehensive Plan identified that the Town's potential future development and growth should be directed toward its commercial centers and the connecting roadways or corridors, primarily Arsenal Street and Pleasant Street (see Figure 8 - Watertown Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use). Future land use along the Arsenal Street corridor will emphasize commercial, office, and retail development along with a mix of residential uses. Development standards and design guidelines are being developed by the Town to ensure future developments align with the Town's vision for this key corridor. The Comprehensive Plan recommended promoting mixed use and commercial development nodes or "sub-districts" along the Pleasant Street corridor in order to diversify economic activities and help define the character of the corridor. Zoning revisions were also recommended to encourage context sensitive design that respects appropriate development scale and compatibility in the corridor, as well as to promote public access and view corridors to open spaces along the Charles River waterfront. E. ANALYSIS OF COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE The Town of Watertown has an older infrastructure system consisting of almost 74 miles of roadway, 80 miles of water mains, 82 miles of storm drain lines, and 84 miles of sewer lines. When development projects come before the Town, special attention is paid to the impact of the project on the infrastructure system, and mitigation is implemented where warranted. Watertown is served by the MBTA's public bus system with a major bus terminal in Watertown Square, and several lines to Harvard Square and Newton Centre. The bus terminal in Watertown Square is located within easy walking distance of the DCR Charles River Reservation. There are several local and express routes to destinations including Harvard and Central Squares in Cambridge, Newton Centre, the Dedham Mall, Waltham and Kenmore Station and downtown Boston. The Town is also near the I-90 Mass Pike with an interchange at Galen Street, less than a mile from Watertown Square and the intersection of Mt. Auburn Street. Several of the MBTA bus routes experience capacity issues during rush hour service. Pedestrian facilities are widely available providing a well-connected network throughout the Town. Approximately 86 percent of all roadway miles (70 out of 81 total miles) within the Town have a sidewalk on at least one side of the road. However, there is concern that there are a number of corridors with a wide pavement cross sections that require pedestrians to cross long distances without refuge. This can have safety impacts as well as decreased efficiency at signals due to the amount of time vehicles are required to stop. There are several current planning efforts that aim to improve bicycle facilities and provide continuous routes through Town. Currently, the Watertown Greenway; which runs between the Arsenal Street/School Street intersection and the Nichols Avenue/Arlington Street intersection is a designated off-road multi-use facility within the Town. The Community Path is a proposed multi- use path running east-west between Pleasant Street and the Watertown Greenway at School Street. As described below, the Greenway will be expanded to connect to Cambridge. Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 The Watertown-Cambridge Greenway is designed to provide an alternative route for cyclists and commuters utilizing sustainable modes of transportation that are traveling between the west and urban centers in Arlington, Cambridge, and Boston. It also serves as a recreational greenway and passive park with abundant native plantings and wildlife. Phase 1, an almost one mile segment completed and opened to the public in 2011, runs from School Street to the intersection of Arlington, Nichols, and Coolidge Streets and connects the Watertown Mall and local businesses to residential areas of Watertown and Filippello Park. In June 2013, the Commonwealth acquired a 4.2 acre corridor from B&M Railroad for $1.3 million ($829,000 of DCR's Land Acquisition funds and $470,000 of federal funds for green transportation). The corridor is located between Grove Street in Watertown and Huron Avenue in Cambridge. The new acquisition will link the Charles River corridor, Fresh Pond Reservation, Fresh Pond Shopping Center, Alewife Greenway and MBTA station, the Minuteman Bike Path, and the Mystic River Reservation. In a separate but equally critical transaction, the City of Cambridge acquired from B&M Railroad, a section of former railroad corridor to the north, between Huron Avenue and Concord Avenue with Community Preservation Act funds. Cambridge reserved for DCR a 14-foot-wide trail easement over the 2,000 linear feet above Huron Ave. These two acquisitions have more than doubled the length of the original greenway; expanding the greenway from 4,600 feet to 10,200 feet in length, and connecting it with many more miles of trail. An additional connection will be established by the Watertown Community Path, which is a multi- use path that will provide pedestrians and bicyclists with a safe and easily accessible route through much of Watertown. A project spearheaded by the Town of Watertown, Watertown Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee and Watertown Citizens for Environmental Safety, the path is expected to run from the intersection of School and Arsenal streets in East Watertown, through Watertown Square and to the intersection of Pleasant and Howard streets near the Charles River. It will provide a link between the Minuteman Bikeway and the Charles River Reservation Path. Approximately 1.75 miles in length, the preferred route roughly follows a former railroad right-of- way(ROW). It suggests a minimum 8-foot-wide two-way cycle track along Arsenal Street - a bicycle path separated from traffic by a physical barrier - and a 10-foot-wide shared-use path when not adjacent to sidewalk. Another critical link being discussed by the Town is a connection from the Watertown-Cambridge Greenway and the Paul Dudley White Charles River Greenway. The preferred route for this connection would connect the two greenways at the spur trail connection adjacent to the Watertown Mall, cross Arsenal Street, and connect through the Arsenal Project (former Arsenal Mall) and through the Arsenal Park. This would create a direct connection between the intersection of Greenough Boulevard/North Beacon Street and the Watertown- Cambridge Greenway. The Paul Dudley White Charles River Bikepath is a 14-mile loop that follows both banks of the Charles River from the Museum of Science in Boston to Watertown Square, in Watertown. The pavement varies from 12 feet wide with center stripes to 4 feet wide with 64nch drops at the edges. In some places it is barely wide enough for one bicycle to pass another safely; in others, there are 3-6-15 DRAFT 25 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 separate bicycle and pedestrian paths. The Urban Parks Division of the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) manages and maintains this path. This path should be reviewed more closely to see if enhancements can be made to meet current standards; in addition, a connection to/ from the Watertown Greenway should be made. The DCR, in cooperation with both private donors and the Town have permitted a project to improve the Charles River Path from Watertown Square to the Yacht Club. In December 2010, Watertown was designated a Green Community by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER). Once a community has been designated as a Green Community DOER provides technical assistance and financial support to improve energy efficiency and increase the use of renewable energy in public buildings, vehicles, facilities and schools. In order for Watertown to be designated a Green Community, five criteria were met: • Criterion 1: as-of-right siting in designated locations for renewable/alternative energy generation, research and development, or manufacturing facilities. • Criterion 2: expedited application and permit process for as-of-right energy facilities. • Criterion 3: energy use baseline and plan to reduce energy use by twenty percent (20%) within five (5)years. • Criterion 4: purchasing only fuel-efficient vehicles. • Criterion 5: adopt the Board of Building Regulations and Standards Stretch Code for new construction 3-6-15 DRAFT 26 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 SECTION 4 - ENVIRONMENTAL INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS A. GEOLOGY, SOILS AND TOPOGRAPHY Watertown's 4.11 square miles (2,630.4 acres) are located in an area known geologically as the "Boston Basin", as is most of the Boston Metropolitan Region. The Boston Basin extends south to Weymouth, north to Medford and west to Weston. The basin is a faulted and folded terrain that extends northeasterly in Massachusetts Bay. The basin is characterized by the Cambrian Age rock formations, Cambridge Argillite and Roxbury Conglomerate. Much of Watertown is underlain by the Cambridge Argillite. The Roxbury Conglomerate outcrops extensively in Newton and the Roxbury section of Boston. Both the Cambridge Argillite and Roxbury Conglomerate have been intruded by igneous dikes and interbedded with volcanic ash from the Brighton Volcanic Complex and Lynn Volcanics. Topographically, elevations range from 220 feet near the Oakley Country Club to less than 10 feet along the banks of the Charles River. Several prominent hills (e.g., Whitney Hill, Strawberry Hill, and Coolidge Hill) dot the landscape and provide some excellent views of the river basin below and the Boston skyline to the east. Geologically, these hills are drumlins and are composed of large mounds of glacial till (i.e., clay and rock) formed as the glaciers reshaped the landscape some 10,000 to 12,000 years ago. As the glaciers moved across New England, much land in coastal areas was pushed below sea level by the glacier's massive weight. The bedrock below the glacial till is the result of the erosion of a high mountain range that existed 350 million years ago to the west of the Boston Basin The general topography has remained much the same since the glaciers and subsequent sea level changes occurred several thousand years ago. It would be erroneous, however, to suggest that humans have not any significant impact on the post-glacial landscape. Indeed, damming of the Charles River to harness water-power for the burgeoning industrial base of the mid to late 19th century has changed its course and altered the character of this river. No longer is it the swift- moving waterway of yesteryear. Nor are large wetlands present to provide natural flood buffers or filtration of surface runoffs back into the river. Human modifications to the land include dense residential development, paving, filling, and grading for construction and transportation. The only areas that have not been altered from the original post-glacial topography are those in which the slope is too steep to grade or the substrate too difficult to manipulate, such as Whitney Hill. Watertown's surficial geology is composed mainly of deposits left behind by the glaciers of the last ice age, sedimentation from upland areas, and post-glacial sea level changes. Today, much of the Town can be classified as "urban land complex" (bituminous or concrete pavement) and loamy sand. Once, the alluvial soils along the banks of the Charles River provided the basis for a well, established agricultural community to thrive. Today, the last vestiges of this agricultural community exist only at the Gore Estate. A general soils map can be seen in Figure 9 - Soil Types. 3-6-15 DRAFT 27 6nc��. .. �::Si.WG�i•A..F.i OSQa10i5 w�.n.n 2 ..A. 602 3250 6219 1080 631C Ole 602 Qaa S5436A 250 631C 106C 108C 4206 1030 253C p56A 3G9 603 4W7 105r) 53A 53A 42m 2239 654 85d F ' 651 309 60x 6cf3 f/ 2829 2519 2s6a 251A Baz 603 BELMONT 1 2239 °340 2$3p 2546 / 26p9 223A 2239 as$ / 1 654 27y 4 623C 252D 527r 1 2`- 51A �' 25313 w WALTHKV sx9G t. eoz - t.` w °S-0 1 66A CAMBRIOGE 6oz � ezx /t .. � - ~�� n3e i cr am / 6x9C 654 621. - 2546 t aTCdf 103E i15G �� +33559~ �— �•�• 34W f 67�fi 602 654 MOD ' Z 65e 426 izsa s5a. zsse � / 253B B56 t 1655 6 629C — - -"_ 7S4fi 4� 4� ' _ �. ,;..., --[+ ,.i .I ' Azar ILi�- 631C 4209 ' CO2 am , 655 ti , 6132 2538 1 oss 822C 3250 I� ! 6289 NF-iN;'C}N �eZ,6s.. - _ /� 42W _ BOSTON 25'SC 631C C = 664 sm 623C - .. •803 - _ �._ hoe - azso •'i Vanasst,flangen Brasilia,Inc. Soil Types Legend Source:MassG15 1 Soil Map Chits March 2015 Open Space and Becceat—Plan 6pdate VW Wai.rl n,..MA Figure 9—Soil Type (S.C.S.). As evident on the Soils Map, Watertown has been highly urbanized leaving very little in the way of viable agricultural soils. Much of the wetland soil along the Charles River has been filled and built upon during the latter part of the 19th century, although a significant band of wetlands remain along the Charles River on property owned by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. B. LANDSCAPE CHARACTER The landscape of Watertown can best be described as dense suburban and urban. There are, however, several scenic jewels among the many of the heavily- developed neighborhoods. Of primary note is, of course, the Charles River which winds along the town's southern boundary. The DCR walkway along the Charles River west of Watertown Square provides scenic vistas for pedestrians and bicyclists and has enabled increased access to the Town's most valuable natural resource. Several prominent hills provide vistas of the Boston skyline. The hill and tower (1361 at Mt. Auburn Cemetery provides not only a spectacular vista but is situated amid Watertown's largest expanse of semi-public open space. Watertown has other drumlins including the 400-foot Whitney Hill, which is located within a 10.26 acre park. Several footpaths meander throughout the vast well-kept grounds providing a pleasant walk for visitors. Views of the Boston skyline can also be seen along Coolidge Hill Road. At the peaks of Palfrey Street there are excellent semi-urban vistas of the hills and valleys to the immediate west, into Waltham. The Oakley Country Club also provides excellent views. C. WATER RESOURCES Watertown is mostly within the Charles River Watershed with the exception of an area approximately 1000 feet deep along the northern boundary with Belmont (see Figure 10 - Water Resources). The Charles River forms most of Watertown's southern boundary and is considered a major part in the town's quality of open space. Indeed, as Watertown's name suggests, the connection with the Charles has played a prominent role in Watertown's rich history. Today, improved water quality has spurred an increase in recreational water sports such as rowing, sailing, fishing and canoeing; though this section of the river is still not clean enough for swimming. Storm water Management is a critical response that is important to the future success and vitality of the Charles River and is practiced and implemented with current and proposed development of infrastructure projects. r,a,�w.w,�w•Jm�vsi.oaemrra.a•.,...rr_er.a,R�,.o<a r� ' , 1 1 BELMONT CAM6RIOGE WALTFiAM t � P � of� A_� �, ! r� 3 yem °a..,nrr p eZ �� „f„•, - ««,�^' � t'RE`""„��, of ���tcl` ��� � �0 �`s'.����� � � .,,... �. ai 4 f �BOSTON NEWTON S.—M...015 Legend I f Watershed Boundary March 2016 Gje sps[ —dRe[reehor,V�enuplae Watertown Townline a Interstate Surface Water waiea—'MA Townline(other) U.S.Highway m DEP Wetlands State Route XIA Figure 10— Water Resources Although Watertown relies on the Metropolitan Water Resource Authority (MWRA), for its potable water supply, well water was once plentiful and provided both drinking water and also irrigation for agricultural ventures. Artesian springs near Whitney Hill were noted in historic journals and were used for irrigation for pear groves along Orchard Street. Because the town no longer depends on groundwater for its sustenance, systematic ground-water testing has not been conducted. The extent to which groundwater has been affected by land use changes and/or industrial/ residential pollution over the past several centuries is not fully known, but testing at the Arsenal site showed significant contamination in that area. Besides the Charles River, surface water is limited to nine small ponds. Three of the nine ponds are located on the grounds of Mt. Auburn Cemetery. All of the ponds are privately owned. Sawin's Pond, Williams Pond, and the ponds at the Perkins School, residential development off Waltham Street, and the Gore Estate are not accessible to the public. Most natural springs were incorporated long ago into the municipal storm drains; no systematic, town-wide mapping of these springs exists. Adjacent to the southern boundary there are several areas along the Charles River that pose 100-year flood hazards. The majority of potentially affected lands occur west of the Watertown Dam with four areas each several acres in size between Bacon Street and Paramount Place. The site of the Stop & Shop at the western end of Pleasant Street is 11 acres that are entirely within the 100-year floodplain. The eastern section of the Charles River is contained within its banks with the exception of the open space along Greenough Boulevard north of Arsenal Street. There are no other documented flood hazards in the town. There are several areas where wetland resource areas are found in Watertown. Walkers Pond and two smaller ponds on the western edge of town between Waltham Street and Pleasant Street, and Sawins and Williams Ponds, in east Watertown at Arlington Street and Coolidge Road, are the two largest wetland resource concentrations in town. There are two isolated and relatively small areas of wetland conditions associated with the Charles River; the first being an unnamed island along the Charles River at Charles River Road and Beacon Street; and the other on the border of Watertown and Boston at the North Beacon Street Bridge. Virtually any activity that occurs in a wetland Resource Area is subject to the state as well as town wetlands protection requirements. This includes any removal, filling, dredging or alteration of the Resource Area. (There are rare exceptions.) In addition, activities that occur in a Buffer Zone surrounding the Resource Area (100 feet under the state requirements, 150 feet under the Watertown ordinance) are subject to requirements if they will alter the Resource Area. The town ordinance also dictates that there is no-build zone within 50 feet of the Resource Area. Even activities outside the Buffer Zone could become subject to requirements if they do alter a Resource Area. Although the Town has no known endangered or threatened species, it is believed that the town has at least one vernal pool at the Mt. Auburn Cemetery. Vernal pools which collect water from rain or seasonal flooding, dry up in the later spring and early summer. They provide essential habitat for several species. It is suspected that there may also be undocumented vernal pools near the ponds in the west end of Watertown. Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 D. VEGETATION There are no rare, threatened or endangered species within the borders of Watertown. Most of Watertown's surface consists of"urban complex" (pavement) and therefore precludes the presence of large tracts of woodlands and species associated with forested areas. Original forests were cleared of all trees long ago with the exception of isolated areas such as the Oakley Country Club where several oak trees are thought to date back to America's colonial era. The trees that dot Watertown's yards, streets, and parks are the result of plantings or natural pollination of species atop areas previously cleared for agriculture or pastures. For the most part, Watertown's contiguous woodland vegetation is limited to the Charles River basin, primarily within the DCR's network of open space. Common native hardwoods include red maple, white oak, hickory, birch, and black oak. Softwood species include white pine and hemlock. Closer to the river's shore there are numerous species of fern near the forest floor as well as cattail stands towards the far western and eastern borders of the town. Common herbaceous plants include vervain, goldenrod, asters and joe pye weed. Whitney Hill Park, the only large remnant of forested land, has approximately 6.1 forested acres with species such as beech, sassafras, white pine, hickory, white oak and maple, leaved viburnum. There are also invasive species such as Norway maple, buckthorn, garlic mustard, euonymus, and bittersweet vines (especially within DCR properties). The presence of invasives along the Charles River could impact the quality of the riverfront area and should be addressed more aggressively. Many trees line the town's streets, deltas, and parks. Presently tree maintenance is conducted by the Parks Division. The median life span of an urban tree is approximately ten years, thus necessitating continual tree management and replacement. The mix of tree species in town has been altered due to the amount of road salt used during the winter. The Task Force recommends that the Town explore reducing salt use to the extent that is compatible with public safety, in order to minimize impacts on trees. The Town has created a GIS map inventory of all publicly owned street trees that contains pertinent data such as species, size, and health, etc. The tree inventory is used to forecast and coordinate tree replacement, requests and maintenance as well as assist in identifying trends that affect the long-term health of the Town's stock of urban forest. The grounds of Mt. Auburn Cemetery cover an area of 175 acres and offer an abundance of flora both indigenous and exotic. The grounds were acquired in 1831 by the Massachusetts Horticulture Society for the creation of an arboretum and were later developed as America's first garden cemetery. Ninety-four percent of the cemetery lies within Watertown. E. FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE Watertown is located in the Boston Eco-region comprised of low hills and outlying hilly suburban towns. The basin itself has low rolling topography and numerous urban reservoirs, lakes, and ponds. The flat areas were once tilled, but are now almost exclusively urban and suburban developments. Because Watertown is a mostly developed community there leaves little room for larger parcels of land required for many habitats. As of February 2015, the Massachusetts Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program has identified one endangered bird species and one reptile species of special concern within Watertown (see Table 1).. 3-6-15 DRAFT 32 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Table 1 - NHESP Species in Watertown, MA Taxonomi Scientific Name Common Name MESA Status Most Recent c Groun Observations Bird Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon Endangered 2014 Reptile Glyptemys insculpta I Wood Turtle Special Concern 2009 Species such as salmon once swam up the Charles River to spawn providing an integral component to the area's seasonal wildlife cycles. With the damming of the river some of these indigenous aquatic species vanished and with them numerous related species. Today the river's fish populations above the Watertown Dam include (but are not limited to) Alewife, Herring, Yellow Perch, American Eel, and Banded Sunfish. The Watertown Dam which crosses the Charles River just west of the Galen Street crossing was built sometime in the mid-17`h century and was used for industry that later developed along the river corridor. The latest version of the dam is still intact and contains a fish ladder that allows native Alewife, Herring and other fish to cross and extend their habitat upstream. F. SCENIC RESOURCES AND UNIQUE ENVIRONMENTS Watertown is situated in the center of Boston Basin, a geographic bowl extending from the Arlington Heights in the north to the Blue Hills to the south. This area is defined by a rim of hard rock hills and full of drumlins, the smooth hills formed from deposits of glacial till, that were left from glaciers millions of years ago. Watertown has several drumlins including Mt Auburn in the cemetery from whose tower can be seen the Charles River Valley; and Prospect Hill at 400 feet, from which can be viewed the Boston skyline, and Harbor. Whitney Hill is another drumlin includes 10.26 acres of park land consisting of the most heavily forested section of Watertown. There is no DCR designated scenic landscapes in Watertown. However, the Town is adjacent to the Charles River and is host to several unique man-made landscapes. The Charles River is a regional historic, environmental, and recreation resource. The river is far from pristine, but the presence of a regional waterway through this community offers a significant number of scenic and historic landscapes. The Charles River Bikeway, which extends into Boston, provides relatively untouched areas of riverbank as it passes through Watertown. There are many areas east of the Watertown Dam where pedestrians and bike riders enjoy river ecosystems that have multiplied since the demise of local industry, as well as intermittent views to downtown Boston. The placid waters in this stretch of the river offer a pastoral experience available in few other urban centers. Dominating views from the Charles River is the 38-acre Perkins School campus with its Campus Gothic style of architecture and its 180 foot tower and belfry. Another development of architectural and historical significance is the site of the former Watertown Arsenal, a 93-acre facility with a collection of large early 19`h and 20th century warehouses designed in the Federal style by Alexander Parris, architect of the Quincy Market buildings. It was redeveloped into an office complex and shopping mall with adjacent community open space. The Arsenal is home to 3-6-15 DRAFT 33 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 the Commander's Mansion, an impressive three-story brick Bracketed style mansion which is used for events and meetings. The building is on the National Registry of Historic Places and, with the manicured landscape with some design by the Olmsted Brothers firm, providing a significant scenic presence to the adjacent park and local area. The river bikeway to the west of the dam provides similar scenic quality in some locations, but is subject to more variety; the early 20,h century Aetna Mill complex, which has been renovated into office and lab space, is almost dominated by the presence of dilapidated late century warehouses and small industrial uses. This area provides the most opportunity for economic revitalization, open space enhancement, and future connections to the river. Within Watertown's boundaries are three privately owned but regionally recognized landscapes, the Gore Estate, Oakley Country Club, and the Mount Auburn Cemetery that, in a relatively dense city, also serve as large swaths of open landscape providing scenery, as well as the ecological benefits of permeable surface, local habitat, sunlight, and air circulation. The Gore Estate straddles the border of Watertown and Waltham and was the 19`h century estate of Massachusetts Governor Christopher Gore. The property includes a small farm with an elegantly furnished mansion considered by architectural historians to be the most significant Federal period mansion in New England. The grounds of the estate lands were developed with respect to the contemporary ideas of Sir Humphrey Repton, one of the last great English Landscape Architects; in an informal fashion with broad lawns, open fields, clumps of trees, and inconspicuous gardens. The Oakley Country Club was founded in 1898 on the grounds of the Otis Family Estate; Harrison Otis was the Mayor of Boston for three consecutive terms. The estate was later known for its wide variety of imported trees and shrubs; however the estate got its name from the abundance of local oak trees in the vicinity, some estimated to be nearly 800 years old. The Oakley was one of the first golf courses in the country. Mt. Auburn Cemetery is a National Historic Landmark is located mostly in Watertown but shares its borders between Watertown and Cambridge. Founded in 1831, it was the first large-scale designed landscape in the United States that was open to the public. It is credited as the beginning of the American public parks and gardens movement and set the style for other suburban American cemeteries. The cemetery is 174 acres and is important for both its historical aspects and its role as an arboretum. Mount Auburn has a massive and renowned collection of over 5,500 trees and includes nearly 700 species and varieties. Thousands of maintained shrubs and herbaceous plants thrive among the cemetery's hills, ponds, woodlands, and clearings. The cemetery contains more than 10 miles (17 km) of roads and many paths. Watertown has many historic resources many of which have been maintained and renovated for contemporary commercial and residential uses. The Mount Auburn Street Historic District was established by the Town of Watertown in 2002 under the Watertown Historic District Ordinance. The purpose of the Historic District is to preserve the distinctive architecture reflecting the character of Watertown's rich cultural, social, economic and political history. 3-6-15 DRAFT 34 Nil 15 .:q. It ' BELMON r ` WALTHAM ,A BRIDGE ,. 7 Oakley Country Club _ y ��' ti r. .a .� YVhllnfry Hill" 's'�,• �� ,�•_ fa w„b x lAt Auburn l rmptq Gore Eetete , 9 P' _ a� 6`;0 8 i °� °'�"o,�..o ., c rY a p +� sf' [�^�M2'T River Graenway A _ Watertown Arsenal r• Perkins School for the BlindPIK — •µ - .� a awn`i r r NEWTON Man----- BOSTON VIM M. M71FTWU Legend s��=�=M—ris Marcn Nis Unique Features Bicycle Facilities Major Routes.by Administrative Type 19 •:;harles River Green -NhAubum Cemete Open space and ftrcreallon PWn update '�Y ry Bike Lane Interstate waneiwwn,ua -CommaiMers Nlaneion Dakley Country Club Proposed Bike Lane U.S.HghHay Care Estate Perkins School for the Blind rrn,—ed Pam Slate Route NRntney Hdl --__Proposed Path Uflrnproved Path Figure 11 — Unique Features Map G. ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES The most significant environmental challenges that Watertown faces in the next five years are primarily those of hazardous waste sites and development pressure. The Town has been urbanized for the last 100 years and is now, as many communities in the northeast, faced with opportunities for open space but also new development as entire industry sectors transform from market pressures. The southern area of town primarily along the once industrious Charles River are now constantly under pressure to be developed but also facing significant hurdles in environmental compliance. Hazardous Waste Sites Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has recorded a total of 282 incidents or sites of reportable oil and hazardous material releases in Watertown as of February 27, 2015. The majority of these sites are closed sites and are located throughout the town at various locations. Among all the closed sites in Watertown, a total of 35 sites have an Activity and Use Limitation (AUL), indicating that some type of land uses are still restricted or prohibited at these locations upon completion of the site remediation efforts. These AUL sites are primarily scattered along the Pleasant Street and Arsenal Street corridors. The GSA site located along the Charles River in the southeastern corner of town is considered to be one of the more contaminated parcels in the area. The contamination on the site has been capped and all of the structures were removed. The wetland has been re-established and the property has been transferred to DCR, which is evaluating the future installation of pathways and boardwalks to access the area. The parcel is over 10 acres in size. Landfills There are currently no landfills in Watertown. Filippello Park in East Watertown was once a dump and was capped and converted to open space. Chronic Flooding There is considerably seasonal flooding that occurs along the basins and low areas of the Charles River. This is mostly along the areas that were once very industrial and now stand to contain the most contaminants. As these sites are cleaned and redeveloped, Watertown will be looking for strategies to resolve not only Brownfield conditions but water retention and low impact as well. Stormwater Management Recognizing the importance of the Charles River as an important regional natural resource, as well as the Town's ponds such as Sawins, Williams and Walkers Ponds, the Town is considering ways to enhance the management of stormwater runoff. The Comprehensive Plan calls for improved stormwater management, and Watertown is in the process of adopting Stormwater Ordinances that will guide the efforts of town staff, residents, developers, and local businesses. Additionally, the Town is encouraging the use of best management practices in all new construction, road work, and renovations on existing sites. Additionally, residents and local businesses are encouraged to reduce and clean up pollutants from yards, parking lots, and streets. Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 To that end, the Town recently established a Stormwater Advisory Committee and in May 2011, the Town adopted an ordinance that prohibits illicit discharges into the storm drainage system. The Stormwater Advisory Committee acts as an advisory body to the Superintendent of Public Works and is charged to: • Review and make recommendations on a new stormwater ordinance and related regulations being developed by the Town. • Identify and advocate for stormwater funding through grants and other sources. • Develop educational programs to increase public awareness of stormwater management. • Assist the Superintendent of Public Works with the implementation of best practices for stormwater management. The Town of Watertown is currently considering a Draft Stormwater Management and Erosion Control Ordinance. The ordinance establishes stormwater management standards for new development and redevelopment projects to minimize the potential adverse impacts offsite and downstream which would be borne by abutters, townspeople and the general public. It would regulate discharges to the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) to protect surface water bodies and groundwater. It would apply to any activities that disturbs more than 5,000 square feet of land or that cause a net increase in site impervious surface area by more than 500 square feet. Development Impact Watertown has seen significant development pressure in recent years as other communities in the Boston metro area start to approach limits on developable land. The Pleasant Street Corridor is one of two roadway corridors identified in the Comprehensive Plan as areas that will transform. Historically an industrial corridor known for its mills and factories along the riverfront and the rail lines, Pleasant Street still shows a strong industrial character defined by light industrial uses, warehouses, and contractor yards along its length, particularly west of Bacon Street. It has long been recognized that a significant amount of land within the corridor is underutilized or vacant and the corridor itself has been generally characterized by single story buildings and parking lots. In recent years some new businesses including biotech, medical devices, and some small research and development facilities, as well as new residential development such as Repton Place and Riverbend on the Charles, have developed along the corridor. The corridor is adjacent to a number of residential areas which are primarily single and two-family neighborhoods. Most recent development along the corridor has been predominantly higher density residential, although recent projects have also included some commercial uses. Another key area identified in the Comprehensive Plan as an arear that will transform is the Arsenal Street corridor.Arsenal Street is the Town's main spine in the south connecting directly to Boston. It is characterized by large format retail services, shopping malls and repurposed office and restaurant spaces. The corridor functions as an important gateway to the Town and possesses the most significant potential for positive land use change. Historically an industrial corridor, Arsenal Street today has been fragmented by different types and intensity of uses along its length. Automotive sales and services dot some of the prime locations near Watertown Square and along the corridor to the east. On the northern side of the street, large tracks of industrial land lie underutilized in the western half between Arsenal and Walnut Street and in the eastern half 3-6-15 DRAFT 37 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 extending along the Watertown Greenway towards Coolidge Square as well as along Coolidge Avenue. As the Comprehensive Plan envisions the Arsenal Street corridor as one of the primary locations for future commercial/retail, office, and residential mixed use development, proactive planning and design is imperative to minimize and mitigate anticipated impact such as increases in vehicular traffic as well as pedestrian and bicycling activities. 3-6-15 DRAFT 38 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 SECTION 5 - INVENTORY OF LANDS - CONSERVATION AND RECREATION INTEREST A. INTRODUCTION According to many of the early American landscape visionaries, and expressed well by Frederick Law Olmstead, parks are not amenities; they are necessities. Parks provide recreation, inspiration, and essential respite from the city's hardscape, bright lights, perpetual traffic, and blaring noises. Parks should be available to all residents, especially those who do not have the resources to escape to other places. This was expressed more than a century ago and is still very much if not more relevant today. Strong evidence shows that when people have access to parks, they practice healthier lifestyles. Beyond the obvious benefits of exercise, a growing body of research shows that contact with the natural world improves physical and psychological health. The provision of green space in urban areas provides substantial environmental benefits. Trees reduce air-pollution and water pollution, help to keep cities cooler, and are an effective means to manage storm water runoff and erosion; and most parks, even in urban areas, consist primarily of pervious surfaces. City parks also produce important social and community development benefits. Studies have also shown that parks and open space increase the value of neighboring residential properties. Similar benefits occur on commercial property value; the availability of park and recreation facilities is an important quality of life factor for corporations choosing where to locate facilities. In many ways communities assume parks will always be there, and unfortunately they are typically taken for granted. But perspectives are changing as the sensitivity to overdeveloped land and resources, as well as increased pressures on lifestyles and family is brought to the fore. According to the 2010 US Census, 80.7 percent of Americans were living in metropolitan areas, up from 48 percent in 1940. The nature of urban communities is changing with respect to diversity of population, the definition of space, including the built environment, and how the two interact. The emerging workforce is not entering the profession with the same values as the now retiring workforce. In many communities, especially the inner core towns like Watertown, reduction of personal green space, such as lawns and backyards, is leading to more perceived value on local parks and recreation settings. More Watertown residents are expecting programmed and usable open space, as well as natural spaces, to be provided for themselves, their children and their pets; many of these uses being incompatible and requiring careful planning and design. And the scarce availability of land puts an enormous onus on identifying strategic lands and planning for acquisition years before actual implementation. The increased costs for land acquisition, development, environmental cleanup, green building, and maintenance have placed a strain on creating new parks that will meet today's standards of useful and responsible application, i.e. green and sustainable. Towns are usually left to upgrade and maintain existing parks, many of them unable to meet the demands of an increasing population and higher residential densities. And the responsibilities in maintaining the land for future generations are relentlessly met with the pressures of incoming and usually needed economic and residential development. Many cities and towns have adopted cost saving methods 3-6-15 DRAFT 39 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 associated with sustainable public parks and recreation. The use of natural systems that can be easily and efficiently maintained will be more valuable as energy and material costs rise. Sustainability will be imperative for parks and recreation and should serve as models of development employing best industry practices. Watertown has borrowed some common principles from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) that will allow a community like this, with diverse backgrounds and interests, to collectively agree on a common direction in achieving a desirable park, recreation and open space system. An important reason for maintaining these principles is to encourage communication and collaboration in seeking a unified approach toward implementation. These principals ensure that there is a balance between the interest of the public and private sectors; indoor and outdoor opportunities and the management of space, services and facilities. They serve as a broad baseline for the more specific Goals and Objectives that are explained in Chapter 8. These principles include: 1. All people should have access to activities and facilities regardless of interest, age, sex, income, cultural background, housing environment or handicap. 2. Public recreation should be coordinated with other community recreation opportunities to avoid duplication and encourage innovation. 3. Public recreation must be integrated with all other public services, such as education, health, water, light and roads. 4. Facilities should be adaptable to future requirements. 5. Facilities and programs should be financially feasible at all stages of development; the operation and maintenance places a greater financial burden on the municipality than the initial capital cost; more facilities require more staff. 6. Citizens should be involved in this planning process throughout all stages. 7. Planning should be a continuous process, involving constant evaluation of the recommendations and continuous effort in protecting existing lands and increasing current inventory. 8. Local, regional and state plans should be integrated. The Executive Office of Environmental Affairs as expressed in the requirements for the Open Space Planner's Workbook promotes the retention of open space for conservation and recreational purposes. Beyond the general requirements, however, no specific standards have been established. Rather, it has been left to the local governments to decide how much land should be set aside as open space. The NRPA has established definitions for recreational land necessary to serve a given population. These definitions are oriented largely toward metropolitan areas. For example, a "neighborhood park" as defined by the NRPA would serve a population of up to 5,000 people. Therefore, as NRPA advised, Watertown established its own standards tailored to the unique characteristics of the Town, rather than adopt the guidelines verbatim. 3-6-15 DRAFT 40 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 These definitions are as follows: 3-6-15 DRAFT 41 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 NRPA Recreational Land Definitions Orientation Function Space, Design &Service Example Area Home oriented space Should meet aesthetic qualities and Varies according to housing Front and back yards, accommodate informal activities of type;immediately adjacent or driveways,sidewalk,porch, an active and passive nature, i.e. within 200 feet of each dwelling balconies,workshops,play sitting,reading,gardening, unit rooms,recreation rooms sunning,children's play and family activity Sub-neighborhood space Especially important in high Must be visually accessible; Vacant lots, cul-de-sacs, or Connector density areas,providing visual varies from 500 square feet to 1 boulevards,green belts, relief and aesthetic qualities for acres; designed to be as flexible walkways,trails,play lots, similar activities to those as possible;will serve and area of rest areas, and vest-pocket mentioned above,as well as 100 yards to 1/4 mile radius parks. meeting areas for small informal groups,walking,jogging and dog walking Neighborhood space Should accommodate Space should be associated with Neighborhood parks or neighborhood interest preferences; an elementary school;varies park-school combinations may include sports areas for minor from 1 to 20 acres;will serve play fields for baseball, leagues, outdoor skating rinks, 5,000 people within an area of soccer and football; water play as well as special events 'A mile radius adventure playgrounds, and informal passive activities wading pools, neighborhood centers Community space Should accommodate social, Space should be associated with Community park or park- cultural,educational and physical a secondary school;varies from school combinations; activities of particular interest to 5 to 20 acres;will serve several facilities for playgrounds, the community; multi-purpose, neighborhoods or 15,000 to recreation center,meeting year round,day/night activities; 25,000 people within a radius to rooms and library;track low level competitive sports with 1/z to 1 1/z miles; accessible by and field areas,sports limited spectator space walking,cycling and public fields,arena and transit swimming pool City-wide or urban space Should provide specialized facilities Parks can be 5 to 200 acres; Major city parks and areas for the use of a wide segment of accessible to all residents by left in their natural state; populations;will accommodate the private and public beaches,trails,and picnic preservation of unique historical, transportation;should not areas;fair grounds,civic cultural or natural areas exceed 1/z hour driving time; centers and major sports should be linked to other open facilities space I Regional space Specialized areas for conservation Up to 500 acres or more,serving Conservation areas, and preservation of naturalized two or more municipalities; if botanical gardens,regional resources;usually involves more possible accessible by public and provincial parks;wild time-consuming activities, i.e.day- transportation;within 20 miles life sanctuaries and long picnics and family camping or 1 hour driving of high density naturalized reserves;scenic areas drives and waterway systems;air fields,ski areas,zoos and museums 3-6-15 DRAFT 42 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 There are approximately 119 acres of public owned and publicly accessible open space distributed across the town. That is 3.7 acres per 1,000 persons, significantly less than what has been considered a standard of 10 acres per 1,000 persons (NRPA standard). And NRPA has recently established a new set of guidelines with an approach that is redefining this old notion of a national standard of 10 acres per 1,000 people, and which is now generally recognized as lacking in today's recreation and open space environment. In short, according to this comparison, Watertown is deficient in the national standard for quantity of open space. Even considering the extensive amount of DCR land (50+ acres) along the Charles River, Watertown still falls short, as do many communities in the inner core of metro Boston. The majority of open space in Watertown is privately owned and only half of that is publicly accessible; this includes 281 acres of open space contained within Mt. Auburn Cemetery, The Gore Estate, and the Oakley Country Club, the last of which contains 80 acres with access limited exclusively to members only. The other two are private holdings but open to the public during scheduled hours. This private open space is limited in access, but also provides other benefits to the community including vast amounts of permeable and vegetative land that supports wildlife and vegetative ecologies, open terrain for better microclimates and air circulation, and scenic landscapes. The Oakley County Club is also protected by the Chapter 61B recreational land program which offers the Town the right of first refusal to purchase the land. 3-6-15 DRAFT 43 av vvrmp„ImuuLonssrmccaq.moseamts_w+..�.����e BELMONT 1 St.Patrick's Cemetery ~WALTHAA7 �' �� _ AMBRIDGE eir Ridgela cemetery �F Y min Lowell Elementary CunnWElementary r - -"- 8' e ! & Oaey Country Club : kl Vktory Field `...�.:_, L ` Famter Coolidge School • Whlmey Hlll a - A Browne House Watertown Middle School 4� 8 - - Sullivan Pa ik [Sore Estate � � � � � 'Y�.,.,..... l` v� Mt Auburn Cemetery y { Old Burial Ground Mom ley Park / Sandbanks Cemetery ALTA at me Est. ce 552 Mai Park __ Linear Park Partner East Brench Library! _ Walker Pond " Watertown School / Community Path(future) +� �, O'Connell Park - - Bemis Park r �+ School AMiSentor.Cemer - f - r � Sallons[af€Park .++— __ HosmarMEanlafy Town Sliver . f Howe Park _,; � ! _ I Charles RiverGreenway `�` ' "..... try Fihppalla Park J ��~ � :.-:c olu hue D.lta____--_^._ Cammlonga Memorial Park / - �— - - - ' zP •Former GSA Site living Park .. ..- � _ Casey Park The Amen at on tha Charles ~ �- Perkins School For the Blind "rG 'Boyd_Park � ,- Arsenal Park Charles River Greenway NEWTON �.Commandees Mansion 6p5TON f Scluibnocktt Park �- _�• F t en 5 pa ce a n t Legend Sour= March ndarcn sacs Open Space by Property Type WatertownlCambrid"Greenway Bicycle Facilities Major Routes,by Administrative Type Cemetery conservation Proposed Bike Lane Intemlate oven svaceand taeuranan Pic-update Watertown.MA _Park -Municipal Building Complete Proposed Bike Lane G.S.Highway -Linear -SdhoDl Improved Path Slate Route _ Private ----Proposed Path -- Unimprmeed Path Figure 12 —Open Space and Recreation Resources Inventory Watertown has a considerable amount of private holdings and many of the public holdings and parks are relatively small at only a couple acres in size; however, the largest and most centralized public open space in Watertown is the combination of the naturally forested Whitney Hill (which was recently expanded by over four acres to encompass 10.26 acres), and the adjacent sports complex of Victory Field. Though located slightly to the west and definitely favoring those living in central Watertown, this combination of open space is easily accessible for most residents. This combination of parks provides almost 22 acres of open space and is no more than 2 1/z miles from any residence in Watertown. Whitney Hill is permanently protected through its Article 97 status and Victory Field is zoned in the Open Space and Conservancy District, as are most of the Town's conservation and recreation properties. In order to provide more equity to residents in other parts of the Town, Filippello Park was redeveloped in east Watertown, and plans to provide more programmed open space in west Watertown is being investigated. The entirety of Watertown is no more than a mile and a half from the Charles River which makes up most of Watertown's southern border with Newton and Boston. DCR owns and manages over 50 acres of land along the Watertown side of the Charles River and provides a significant asset to the town in terms of protected usable open space. Watertown's open space system, in both public and private properties, has varying degrees of protection from development. Presently only four municipally owned open space and recreational parcels - Arsenal Park, Filippello Park, and Saltonstall Park-are restricted from development. Whitney Hill,Arsenal Park, Filippello Park and Saltonstall Park are protected in perpetuity by Article 97 due to acquisition and improvement funds provided by what was previously known as the Self-Help program and Land&Water Conservation funds, respectively. Whitney Hill was deeded to the Town as parkland. The remaining open space and recreation parcels are protected by the Watertown Zoning Ordinance (WZO) and are zoned as "Open Space Conservation" (OSC). Although development is restricted by the current zoning, they are not protected from zoning changes that would allow development. Most private parcels are restricted solely by local authority (WZO) although wetlands also have additional protection under the state Wetlands Protection Act, the Rivers Protection Act and the EPA. Approximately 119 acres of the parkland and open space are owned by the Town. Conservation and recreation holdings account for 89 acres of that total. This open space is augmented by some large privately owned open space parcels. Mt. Auburn Cemetery is a semi-public open space offering a considerable opportunity for residents to enjoy a park-like atmosphere of a quality that few municipal governments could afford to undertake or maintain. Fortunately for the town, the very nature of a cemetery virtually, but not totally, assures a perpetual level of protection from development. Other privately owned parcels such as the Oakley Country Club and parts of the Gore Estate lack an inherent deterrent to development and thus require significant and persistent attention to ensure that this resource is not lost. Table 2 -Watertown Conservation and Recreation Holdings Conservation Acres Ownership Management Conditio Recreation Recreation Grants Public Level of and/or Recreation Agency n Use Type Involved Access Protection Holding Arsenal Park 13.7 Town DPW/ Fair General City-wide or Self Help Open In Urban Space $1,165,730 Perpetuity Recreation Picnics, acquisition (Article 97) Department field,court $553,000 athletic and improvement recreational activities Bemis Playground 1.9 Town DPW/ Fair General Neighborhood None Open Open Space Space and Recreation Field and Conservanc Department court athletic y Zoning and District recreational activities. 552 Main Street 2.4 Town DPW/ Excellent General Neighborhood $200,000 Open Dedicated Playground Space Our Common park land Recreation Field and Backyards (Former)Browne Department court athletic Program School Playground- and recreational activities. Casey Playground 4.2 Town DPW/ Good General Neighborhood None Open Open Space Space and Recreation Field and Conservanc Department court athletic y Zoning and District recreational activities. Skating Cunniff School 2.3 Town DPW/ Poor Recess and Neighborhood None Open Open Physical Space and Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Conservation Acres Ownership Management Conditio Recreation Recreation Grants Public Level of and/or Recreation Agency n Use Type Involved Access Protection Holding Playground Recreation Education Space Conservanc Department Classes y Zoning District General Field and court athletic and recreational activities. Filippello Park 16.9 Town DPW/ Fair General City-wide or Land and Open In Urban Space Water Perpetuity Recreation Water park Conservation (Article 97) Department Fund Picnics, field,court $463,568.23 athletic and recreational activities Howe Park 1.6 Town DPW/ Good General Neighborhood None Open Open Space Space and Recreation Dog Park Conservanc Department Court y Zoning athletic and District recreational activities. Linear Park 1.0 Town DPW/ Good General Sub None Open Neighborhood Recreation Walking /Connector Department Biking Lowell School 3.7 Town DPW/ Fair Recess and Neighborhood None Open Open Playground Physical Space Space and Recreation Education Conservanc y Zoning 3-6-15 DRAFT 47 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Conservation Acres Ownership Management Conditio Recreation Recreation Grants Public Level of and/or Recreation Agency n Use Type Involved Access Protection Holding Department Classes District General Field and court athletic and recreational activities. Lowell School Hill 3.2 Town DPW/ Good Recess and Neighborhood None Open Open Physical Space Space and Recreation Education Conservanc Department Classes y Zoning District General Field and court athletic and recreational activities. Moxley Playground 4.9 Town DPW/ Fair Recess and Community None Open Open Physical Space Space and Recreation Education Conservanc Department Classes y Zoning District General Field and court athletic and recreational activities. O'Connell 4.7 Town DPW/ Fair Recess and Community None Open Open Physical Space and 3-6-15 DRAFT 48 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Conservation Acres Ownership Management Conditio Recreation Recreation Grants Public Level of and/or Recreation Agency n Use Type Involved Access Protection Holding Playground Recreation Education Space Conservanc Department Classes y Zoning District General Field and court athletic and recreational activities. Phillips School 0.5 Town DPW/ Fair N/A Neighborhood None Open Open Playground Space Space and Recreation Conservanc Department y Zoning District Saltonstall Park 5.3 Town DPW/ Good General Neighborhood None Open In Space Perpetuity Recreation Field and (Article 97) Department court athletic and recreational activities. Sullivan Playground 1.2 Town DPW/ Good I General Neighborhood None Open Open Space Space and Recreation Field and Conservanc Department court athletic y Zoning and District recreational activities. Victory Field 11.1 Town DPW/ Artificial Physical City-wide or $300,000 in Open Open turf— Education Urban Space donations Space and Recreation Excellent Classes from Conservanc Department community y Zoning Grass 3-6-15 DRAFT 49 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Conservation Acres Ownership Management Conditio Recreation Recreation Grants Public Level of and/or Recreation Agency n Use Type Involved Access Protection Holding field— General members District Fair Field and court athletic and recreational activities. Whitney Hill Park 10.26 Town DPW/ Fair Walking, City-wide or None Open In Passive Urban Space Perpetuity Conservation (Article 97) Total Acres 88.96 B. PRIVATELY OWNED PARCELS OF SIGNIFICANT INTEREST Name of Privately-Owned Open Space Parcels Recreation Recreation Acres Use Type Mt.Auburn Cemetery(Watertown portion) Historic, Passive, Regional 164.0 Educational, Oakley Country Club Golf Regional 80.0 Gore Estate(Watertown portion) Historic, Passive, Regional 31.6 Agric. Learning Sawins Pond and Brook NA NA 3.8 Walkers Pond(approximate) NA NA 2.0 Total Acres 281.4 3-6-15 DRAFT 50 MOUNT AUBURN CEMETERY Owner: The Cemetery of Mt.Auburn Managed By: Mount Auburn Cemetery Public Accessibility: Daylight hours only Public Grants: N/A A.D.A.Accessibility: Zoning: OSC Level of Protection: Zoning and limited wetlands protection(state,local) The Watertown portion of Mt. Auburn Cemetery consists of 151.1 acres of well- manicured grounds with numerous species of both indigenous and exotic tree and shrub species. The cemetery is Watertown's largest contiguous open space and extends into Cambridge to the east. Parking is available for visitors. Disabled accessibility is accomplished via the extensive network of paved pathways and roadways. The limited traffic is very conducive for dual vehicular/wheelchair uses. Bicycles are not permitted. Recommendation: The Town of Watertown could be more active in promoting Mt. Auburn Cemetery as an amenity in Watertown. - 5 THE OAKLEY COUNTRY CLUB Owner: The Oakley Country Club Managed By: The Oakley Country Club Public Accessibility: Membership Only Public Grants: N/A A.D.A.Accessibility: �. Zoning: CR(Cluster Residential) Level of Protection: Ch.61B, Zoning This large track of land situated in the northern bounds of the Town provides both a well Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 maintained private golf course and limited wildlife habitat. Currently the site consists of several individual parcels zoned as CR (Cluster Residential). The site is surrounded on three sides by residential development and has Belmont Street as its northern boundary. Efforts to prevent the future development of the site into a multitude of housing lots and structures resulted in the site's rezoning as CR in 1989. The intention of this rezoning effort was to limit the spread of housing units across the entire site and thus preserving a significant area for open space. In 2004, the Oakley Country Club decided to participate in the Chapter 61B recreational land program which offers the Town the right of first refusal to purchase the land. In the winter of 2004-2005 the Club prohibited sledding on the course, an activity historically enjoyed by the public. Recommendations: • Explore whether there is a way to give greater open space protection through zoning or a conservation restriction • Negotiate feasibility of restoring public sledding SAWINS POND/BROOK AND WILLIAMS POND Owner: 71 Arlington Street Trust,Trustees:Maximos Hatziliades&Sawas Iliades Managed By: The 71 Arlington Street Trust Public Accessibility: None Public Grants: None A.D.A.Accessibility: None Zoning: I.2 Level of Protection: Wetlands protection(state,federal and local) This private pond is located to the east of the intersection of Arlington and Arsenal Streets. The pond area is surrounded by limited vegetation (trees, grasses, and marsh grass) and is bounded to the south by Arlington Street. Currently the site is inaccessible due to a chain link fence. The eastern edge appears to have been used for roadside dumping before the fence was erected. The site is known to be contaminated (water and soil) due to previous industrial uses. The wetland classification prevents development within 150 feet of the shoreline. The site is subject to Conservation Commission jurisdiction and any development would require its approval. Recommendations: • Work toward a cleanup of characterized site contamination. • The Town should consider acquisition and protection of this site for use as a wetland education area and/or as part of a continuous greenway extending from Williams Pond to the former GSA property on Greenough Boulevard. 3-6-15 DRAFT 52 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 GORE ESTATF Owner: The Gore Place Society Managed By: The Gore Place Society Public Accessibility: Limited Public Grants: None A.D.A.Accessibility: Moderate Zoning: OSC Level of Protection: Zoning and Wetlands protection(federal,state and local) This 31 acre site extends along the Town's western border with Waltham and is currently used for limited agriculture. The site has 27 acres in Watertown and 4 acres in Waltham. A large historic home is set atop a hillside towards the northern edge of the site. A small stream flows southward across a portion of the site. It is culverted at the northern and southern portions of the parcel. Development of the site is restricted by wetland areas as well as the historic nature of the estate itself. Disabled access is provided by asphalt paths that run from the parking lots down to the farm areas. Portions of this site have been considered for future public open space. Recommendation: • Support preservation of the use of the site as an historic property. • Explore entering into an agreement with Gore Place to purchase the parcel between Main and Waltham Streets in the event the Gore Estate Trustees chooses to sell the parcel. WALKER POND Owner: Bell Properties Managed By: Bell Properties Public Accessibility: Open Public Grants: None A.D.A.Accessibility: Public access restricted Zoning: I-3 Level of Protection: Zoning and Wetlands protection(federal,state and local) This site is located south of Waltham Street on land at the western edge of the town bordering Waltham. Walker Pond has steep sloping banks to a small (approximately 2 acre) pond bounded by limited vegetation. The status of the soil and water quality is not known. Two other ponds are nearby. Much of the historic site was developed for residential use for 155 units and an open space restriction was part of that approval. The open space includes a loop path around the northern third of the pond and there is also a restriction for an archeological preservation area (Robert Murray Farmstead Complex). The area preserved through the Special Permit Approval is 2.96 acres. A portion of the remaining site is still potentially available although it has some use restrictions. The remaining approximately 7 acre remnant parcel has potential access to the south end of Walker Pond, but public access is not allowed at this point. This part of the site should be 3-6-15 DRAFT 53 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 considered for potential public open space acquisition. Recommendation: • Explore ways to make the entire pond and remaining area of surrounding land available as public open space. The undeveloped portion of land encompasses approximately 7 acres and currently has an Activity and Use Limitation and has limited access and no street frontage and should be considered for preserved open space. WALNUT STREET LINEAR PARK Owner: Arsenal View LLC Managed By: Arsenal View LLC w Public Accessibility: Yes x Public Grants: None �^ A.D.A.Accessibility: Zoning: I-3 Level of Protection: Zoning, Permit Condition A linear park was constructed at the rear of the Lexus dealership site on Walnut Street. The landscaping has greatly enhanced the appearance of Walnut Street and offers restful spaces for residents and nearby workers. The development of this parcel was contingent on providing passage along the Arsenal Street side of the property. This path is in place awaiting the state funded path beginning on the opposite side of School Street. The Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee anticipates the extension of a path connection on private property heading west towards Watertown Square. C. PUBLICLY OWNED PARCELS (INCLUDING TOWN, PARK & CEMETERY ACRES) Name Acres Parks &Playgrounds 1. Arsenal Park 13.7 2. Bemis Playground 1.9 3. Browne School Playground 2.4 4. Casey Playground 4.2 5. Cunniff School Playground 2.3 6. Filippello Park 16.9 7. Howe Park 1.6 8. Linear Park 1.0 9. Lowell School Playground 3.7 10. Lowell School Hill 3.2 3-6-15 DRAFT 54 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Name Acres 11. Moxley Playground 4.9 12. O'Connell Playground 4.7 13. Phillips School Playground 0.5 14. Saltonstall Park 5.3 15. Sullivan Playground 1.2 16. Victory Field 11.1 17. Whitney Hill Park 10.26 Other Town Properties I 1. Administration Building Landscaping 0.3 2. Commanders Mansion&environs 7.0 3. DPW Yard 1.0* Deltas 1. Carver Road Delta 0.25* 2. Church Street Park Area 0.25* 3. Columbus Delta 0.69* 4. Common Delta 0.25* 5. Irving Park 0.5* 6. Knowles Delta 0.25* 7. Shattuck Road Delta 0.25* 8. School and Belmont Streets Delta 0.25* 9. Templeton Parkway Delta 0.25* Other Town Maintained Open Space I 1. Goldie Street(left side off Waverley Avenue) 0.25* 2. Carey Avenue @ King Street(right side of Lexington Street) 0.25* 3. Ladd Place 0.25* 4. Mt.Auburn and Arsenal Streets(weed and prune shrubs) 0.5* 5. Arsenal and N.Beacon Streets(weed and prune trees and shrubs) 0.5* 6. Church Street @ Tresca's 0.25* 7. Nichols Ave.between Arlington Street and end of meters 0.25* 8. Royal Street at Multi-Service Center 0.5* 9. Rosedale at Acton Street(cut all four corners) 0.5* 10. Pleasant Street at Waltham Street(trim back ten feet at corner) 0.5* 11. Ridgelawn Cemetery(northwest Watertown) 17.58 12. Common Street Cemetery(central Watertown) 2.5 13. Arlington Street Cemetery(east Watertown) 1.24 14. Green Myrtle and Pleasant Streets 0.25* 15. Former rail land at Howard to Main Street 1.29 16. Bancroft and Waverley Avenue 0.25* Total Acres 118.77 *approximate acreage 3-6-15 DRAFT 55 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Town Owned Park and Recreation Land by Site Each site summary below includes a brief description of the park or playground, adjacent land uses and street frontage, and the facilities that are provided, including provision for parking. Park elements and structures (paving, benches, play equipment, tables, etc.) and plantings were visually appraised to assess the overall condition of each park or playground and its level of functioning. Key issues at each site are identified to provide a context for evaluating the playing fields. Each park and recreational area was assessed for ADA Accessibility. The Watertown Commission on Disabilities provided the funding for the ADA Access Self-Evaluation report, which was conducted by Adaptive Environments. Listed in each section below are the ADA minimum compliance recommendations for each site. The full ADA reports are very extensive, and are included in the report, Watertown Open Space and Recreational Areas: Review for accessibility and human centered design characteristics; Produced by Adaptive Environments. Many of the ADA issues associated with the parks have been inventoried in this section. It is the intent of the Town of Watertown that ADA issues be at the foreground of all park development and improvements in the future. To this end, a portion of the inventory referenced above is included in this section. Field Conditions Survey Athletic fields and playgrounds make up a significant portion of Watertown's recreational areas. Many of the playgrounds function as school recess areas and extra-curricular sports fields. The forestry and parks foreman of the Watertown Department of Public Works directs the sports field maintenance of each area. Each field is managed in accordance with the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program developed by the forestry and parks foreman. The IPM plan ensures compliance with the Children's Protection Act of 2000, effectively eliminating pesticides applied to the fields while school is in session. Compliance with the Act presents considerable challenges to maintaining sport playing surfaces free of weeds, disease and insects. The primary function of turf fields in school athletics is to provide a quality playing surface while reducing the potential for injury to young athletes. The DPW has maintained the turf in compliance with the Children's Protection Act. Turfgrass Environmental of Longmeadow, Massachusetts assessed each field on September 1, 2005. A turf quality rating system of 1-9 was used to assess individual components of turfgrass quality. The following chart describes the rating system used in this report. When appropriate, specific recommendations for turf maintenance have been discussed. Table 3 -Athletic Field Rating System Characteristic Rating Comments Turf Density 1-9 Looks at overall turfgrass quality. 9=Excellent, 1=very poor, no turf. Thatch thickness Optimum thatch layer for athletic fields is 1/z". 3-6-15 DRAFT 56 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Characteristic Rating Comments Weeds 1-9 Assessment of weed species/population. 1=few to no weeds, 9=excessive weeds present. Compaction 1-9 Assessment of subsurface hardness or compaction. A rating of 5 would be optimum for athletic fields. Tensile 1-9 Assessment of turfgrass structure and resistance to tearing. A rating of 5 would be optimum for athletic fields. Disease General observation of turf disease signs and As noted symptoms at the time of inspection. Insects General observation of damaging insect signs and As noted symptoms at the time of inspection. Source:Turfgrass Environmental ARSENAL PARK Address: Behind 485 Arsenal Street Owner: Town Managed By: DPW/Recreation Department Public Grants: Self Help$1,165,730(acquisition)&$553,000 (improvement) A.D.A.Accessibility: See Appendix A Zoning: OSC Level of Protection: In Perpetuity(Article 97) Description: Arsenal Park is a large multi-purpose park located behind the Arsenal Mall along Arsenal Street. The park encompasses approximately 13.7 acres (7.6 active and 6.1 passive). To the south of the park are Greenough Boulevard and the Charles River. The park is constructed on property that the U.S. Arsenal once used for various manufacturing purposes. Equipment in the tot lot was installed in 2001 and a poured in place rubberized surface was put under the equipment. The facility has 2 basketball courts, 1 bocce ball court, 6 tennis courts, one multi-purpose soccer/ softball field, an open air amphitheater, a skateboard area (former basketball court converted in 2003), a hopscotch area, four square area, 1 street hockey/whiffle ball court, 1 two-sided Tennis Bang Board, 1 volleyball court, a sprinkler park and a cross-country running course. Picnic areas are provided with grills, park benches, picnic tables, and two pavilions. Bicycle racks were added in 2012. In 2013, 8 picnic tables and 4 grills have been replaced (total now is 19 picnic tables and 10 grills), as well as additional plantings. A fence was installed on the south side of the park near the tennis courts. The site is accessed via a drive to the west side of the Arsenal Mall. Parking is centrally located on the site. The grounds of the town-owned Commander's Mansion had design work completed by the Olmstead Brothers firm. 3-6-15 DRAFT 57 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Activitv: Picnic events, youth and adult softball, youth soccer, basketball, tennis, street hockey, and skateboard. Conditions Assessment and Kev Issues: • All courts: basketball, tennis, street hockey and skateboard need resurfacing. • Bocce court needs renovation • Workout stations need to be removed and new ones installed. • Remaining lighting poles need to be removed, new lighting installed. • Bench seating on walkways and adjacent tennis/basketball courts need refurbish. • Fencing between tennis courts and arsenal mall needs to be replaced. • Amphitheater needs resurfacing and trimming • Backstop on the softball field needs to be replaced • Water park needs to be renovated. • Fix water fountains Field Conditions: (See Section 7(c)(2)(1) for a description of the field ratine system) Arsenal Park is irrigated. Fertilization needs are based on the results of annual soil fertility tests. Characteristic Rating Comments Turf 5 Excessive wear/damage Density/Quality Thatch <1/2 inch Optimum I Weeds 8 Significant cover is clover/crabgrass and chickweed Compaction 5 Optimum for athletic fields I Tensile 5 Optimum for athletic fields Disease Significant turf loss from summer patch. The disease is not active at this time. Insects None observed ADA Minimum Compliance Recommendations: 3-6-15 DRAFT 58 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Pedestrian route from Arsenal Street throujih the and level space between them that connects to the mall to Arsenal Park accessible path. Currently,there is no continuous sidewalk from Arsenal Minimum Compliance Street and across the mall parking to Arsenal Park.Where • Create a paved clear space between benches. 50%of the sidewalks exist,curb ramps do not. benches should have 50%arms. Minimum Compliance Ball field bleachers • Connect facility to public way. People who need an accessible route cannot currently Parking Area reach the bleachers. Sidewalks between areas lack required curb ramps. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Establish accessible route to bleachers. • Install curb ramps. Benches mounted on wall at turn around Curb ramps at each end of the parking lot Benches are too low for adults to sit on and too wide for Curb ramps have slopes and vertical lips that are difficult leaning back. to traverse for baby carriages,wheelchairs and other Minimum Compliance wheeled devices and that may cause tripping.The catch • Raise benches to 17"H. Add backs or reduce width of basin grate with its wide openings parallel to the path of benches to between+-2 2" travel is a hazard for cyclists and people with disabilities. Walkway from turn around to courts Minimum Compliance Walkways have large cracks and have vertical • Repair or replace curb ramps,eliminate the vertical lips. displacements greater than 1/4"that are tripping hazards. • Replace grate with openings no more than 112"in the Minimum Compliance direction of travel. • Repair accordingly. Parking Spaces Gate into tennis courts adjacent skate park No parking spaces are accessible. Gate opening is less than 3'wide and lacks a solid surface Minimum Compliance at bottom of the push side of gate so that a person using a • Establish accessible parking spaces,including at least one wheelchair will get their foot rests caught in the mesh. for vans. Minimum Compliance Benches at turn around • Make gate accessible. People using wheelchairs or scooters cannot sit alongside Benches at north edge of tennis court/skate park their companions because there is less than 3'wide clear Low hanging branches are a problem.The benches are in 3-6-15 DRAFT 59 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 a state of disrepair. utilize them. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Repair benches. • Establish an accessible route to one table and grill at this • Head up trees to at least 8'so that when wet,they do not table. hang below 80". • Table tops should extend a minimum of 19"clear space Walkwav alone north edee of courts from the leg,have 30"of clear width and be at a height of The walk is quite lengthy but lacks benches for resting or not less than 2 7"to the underside of the table top. to watch tennis.Walkways have large cracks and have • Concrete pads should extend beyond their current vertical displacements greater than 1/4"that are tripping dimensions to provide a stable seating area at the ends and hazards. a path around the table. Minimum Compliance • Adjacent soil should be level at or slightly above the • Repair accordingly. concrete pads to minimize vertical displacement and trip- Middle Bate to courts ping hazards and allow access to table ends. Gate opening is less than 3'wide and lacks a solid surface Path toward and above amphitheater on the push side so that a person using a wheelchair will Walkway has debris on it from erosion and the edge is get their foot rests caught in the mesh. eroding.At other points,the walkway has sunken Minimum Compliance portions or large cracks that exceed 1/2". • Make gate accessible. Minimum Compliance Bocce Court • Repair and maintain the path and benches accordingly. For people with disabilities,no access is provided into the Greenough Blvd court. This worn path leads to the unofficial crossing to the Minimum Compliance parking area at the edge of the Charles River. • Make court accessible. Minimum Compliance Gate at tennis court adiacent bocce court • Create an accessible route to corner. Latching mechanism(a chain)is not usable by a person N. Beacon (RT 20). Greenough Blvd. and Arsenal with poor dexterity. Ct. Minimum Compliance A person requiring an accessible route would not be able • Provide an accessible latching mechanism. to cross.The existing crosswalks do not follow pedestrian Public Restrooms desire lines. While the restrooms are frequently used,they are not Minimum Compliance accessible. • Install curb ramps and crosswalks. Minimum Compliance Gate to Arsenal Court Drive • Replace door lock which is not operable with a closed fist; The gate to Arsenal Court Drive(to the Commander's • Replace door handle(left door)which appears to be worn or Mansion)appears to be used frequently but is not broken; accessible. • Replace sink so that it does not protrude into clear space; Minimum Compliance • Relocate the grab bars which are now too high, • The step should be ramped and gate left permanently open • Relocate side grab bar which now is 50"from back wall so that it does not block access (54"is required);and Relocate toilet which now is Concrete walk leadine to main narking lot area mounted to far from the side wall. The concrete walk appears to be recently poured. Picnic area at basketball courts Unfortunately,this section is breaking up and its joint Walkways have large cracks and have vertical has some vertical displacement. displacements greater than 1/4"that are tripping hazards. Minimum compliance Catch basin grate has openings that are too large and • Repair accordingly. could cause tripping or catch a wheel. Minimum Compliance Additional Recommendations: • Repair all vertical displacements. 1.Since the field areas were not designed for intensive • Replace grate with 112"maximum holes. field sport use,a vigorous maintenance and management Path from picnic area at basketball courts plan should be implemented to prevent field degradation. Walkway has large cracks and has vertical displacements 2.Repair cracks in the court area and color seal the court greater that are tripping hazards. area Minimum Compliance 3.Replace wood boards on benches and tables where • Repair accordingly. needed Picnic and grill area below basketball courts 4.Resurface the Bocce court While these picnic facilities seem to be used frequently,a 5.Take remaining light poles down person needing an accessible route or tables could not 6.Add electrical outlet outside the bathroom building 3-6-15 DRAFT 60 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 7.Add electrical outlets at the amphitheater area,along its use for soccer with additional seating,a stage backdrop and a wooden 10.Plan for future multi-use path from Charles River to noise buffer. the state funded path via the park or Talcott Avenue and 8.The Open Space Committee notes that the Arsenal Park access road,which would cross Arsenal amphitheater could be utilized as an adjunct theater in Street to Cambridge Aqueduct right of way. relation to the Arsenal Center for the Arts 9.The Town should explore enlarging the field to allow BEMIS PLAYGROUND Address: Corner of Bridge and Waltham Streets Owner: Town Managed By: DPW/Recreation Department Public Grants: None "�Wawjb A.D.A.Accessibility: See Appendix A Zoning: OSC Level of Protection: Zoning Descrintlon: The playground is approximately 1.9 acres (all active recreation). Stop & Shop donated $60,000 to rebuild the tot lot and install new benches and tables in 1996-1997. A new overhead track rider was installed in 2000. The tot lot received a new rubberized surface in 2005. A batting cage was constructed on the west side of the park in 2001. Street parking is available; there is no on-site parking. The playground serves as both a neighborhood tot lot and as a little league baseball field. A basketball court and street hockey court are installed at the western edge of the lot. An irrigation system was added to the park in 2002. A bike rack was installed in 2012. Street and sidewalk reconstruction was completed in 2014. Activitv: Little League Baseball Local Active and passive recreation Recreation Summer Parks Program Condition Assessment and Kev Issues: • Courts: basketball/street hockey needs resurfacing • Batting cage needs reconstruction • Baseball backstop needs replacement • Bench fences need replacement • Drinking fountain needs repairs or replacing Field Conditions: The Bemis Playground is irrigated. Fertilization needs are based on the results of annual soil fertility tests. The field shows good drainage. 3-6-15 DRAFT 61 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Characteristic Rating Comments Turf Density 9 Excellent Thatch <1/2 inch Optimum Weeds 2 Some Clover Present Compaction 5 Optimum Tensile 5 Optimum Disease None observed Insects None observed ADA Minimum Compliance Recommendations: Main gate at Buick and Bridge Streets From the ball diamond and dug-out,there is no accessible Though the entry is used frequently,it is not formalized route to reach the entry gate(at the corner of Evans and and has many obstacles. Waltham Sts),water fountain and the batting cage. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Establish an accessible entry with curb ramp to street. • All elements shall be located on an accessible Field heading toward ball diamond route. Once within the facility,there are no accessible routes to Corner of Evans and Waltham Streets reach various elements. People with disabilities cannot access the water fountain, Minimum Compliance gear box or trash can.Further,many people with • All elements must be connected by an accessible route. disabilities cannot enter the facility at this entry.There Gateway along Bridge Street are no curb ramps to the crosswalk and the surfaces are The gateway and its connection to the street have not uneven. been formalized.The gate could connect to a new Minimum Compliance accessible route • All elements shall be located on an accessible Minimum Compliance route. • Establish an accessible entry,including a curb ramp to the • Establish an accessible route into the park street. including curb ramps along the exterior Bleachers and Benches sidewalks. The bleachers seem to move each time the field is mowed Walkway behind batting cage to ball courts and they are not always oriented to the ball diamond. Though heavily used,the walkway would be quite difficult Neither the bleachers nor bench are on an accessible for many people with disabilities to traverse.They cannot route or offer accessible pull off spaces. access the batting cage and because of the asphalt beam, Minimum Compliance accessing some of the courts is impossible.There is also • Establish accessible routes to the features. evidence of drainage problems Ball Diamond Minimum Compliance Currently,the ball diamond and its dug-out seating areas • Establish an accessible route to the courts as well as into are not easily accessed by people with disabilities.There is the batting cage. significant erosion at the ends of the concrete dugout Basketball Court pads resulting in 1"+tripping hazard.People with Benches are in a washed out area. disabilities cannot traverse the area behind the backstop Minimum Compliance because the concrete does not extend around the back • All elements shall be located on an accessible route. stop.Instead the concrete gives way to a loose muddy Entry at Evans and Buick Streets surface approximately 1-2"below the pad.Further,the People appear to utilize this entry heavily though it is not yellow gear box's present location narrows the walkway. formalized with an accessible route. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Repair surfaces and repair vertical displacements. • Establish an accessible entry,including exterior sidewalk, • Install a flush accessible surface. crosswalk,and curb ramps. Path from dugout to the corner of Evans and Play Structure Waltham Streets While the play structure and adjacent tables are not 3-6-15 DRAFT 62 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 located on an accessible route and the surface at the between the neighborhood and the teams playing baseball structure is not yet accessible,the structure has several and to provide shade for summer patrons and picnickers notable features that should be kept:the slides are light 2.Replace backstop colored and face in a northerly direction-each helps to 3.Color seal court area keep the surfaces cool despite a stark lack of shade. 4.Add handicapped parking and access ramps Minimum Compliance 5.Add bathroom facilities • Create an accessible route to and throughout the play 6.Repair erosion at west side of basketball court structure and picnic tables Additional Recommendations: 1.Plant additional trees to serve as both a natural buffer 552 MAIN STREET PLAYGROUND (BROWNE SCHOOL PLAYGE01 IND Address: Acton Street at Brandley Road Owner: Town Managed By: DPW/Recreation Department is! Public Grants: None r.. A.D.A.Accessibility: See Appendix A Zoning: OSC Level of Protection: Zoning Description: This playground is now referred to as the 552 Main Street Playground until it is formally renamed. The playground behind the Watertown Police Department serves as a neighborhood recreation area and as the playground for children attending the private elementary school housed in the building. The school is at the top of a hill with the playfield area sloping down behind the school towards Acton Street. A small T-ball field area is located at the southern edge of the site at Acton Street and is used for baseball and softball. The slope is less severe as one moves away from the building. The site is bounded on both sides by residential structures resulting in neighbor complaints about improper use of the field. A major renovation of the park occurred in 2014. The improvements included a new tot lot, new hard court surface, two picnic tables, gazebo, rain gardens, bike rack, and contemplative area. The playground is now handicapped accessible and a new handicapped parking lot was constructed. Additionally, 21 new trees were planted. This project was funded through a grant through the Our Common Backyards Program. Activitv: Local active and passive recreation T-ball Condition Assessment and Kev Issues: • Install irrigation system for grass areas • Install water fountain Field Conditions: 3-6-15 DRAFT 63 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 552 Main Street playground is not irrigated. Fertilization needs are based on the results of annual soil fertility tests. The excessive wear from recess activities and sports programs reduce the turf quality on this field. Fall or annual core aeration and seeding is recommended. Characteristic Rating Comments Turf Density/Quality 2 Poor Thatch <1/2 inch Additional thatch development will reduce wear and weed competition. Weeds 9 High density of weeds. Clover/crabgrass Compaction 9 Excessive activity on field.Very compacted Tensile 2 Weeds and compaction reduce tensile strength Disease None observed Insects None Observed ADA Minimum Comoliance Recommendations: Walkway from Acton St to the former Browne Minimum Compliance School • Replace the entire sidewalk with a new sidewalk 5'wide. The path,in its current form,exceeds 5%grade in many Acton St and Brandley Rd areas but does not have level landings and resting areas. The intersection does not have curb ramps or crosswalks Minimum Compliance to reach the park. • Regrade path to ensure that it is consistently below 5%. Minimum Compliance Take up the additional vertical rise with several ramped • Install curb ramps and crosswalks sections with 60"landings at top and bottom. Ball Diamond Entry late from Acton St. Presently,the ball diamond and its dug-out seating areas The slope at the gate exceeds 12.5%.The gate is not are not easily accessed by people with disabilities. accessible,swings into the sidewalk and does not open Minimum Compliance completely. • Connect dugouts to an accessible route. Minimum Compliance • Install accessible gates including 24"accessible surface on • Replace walkway with a 1:12 ramp with handrails. pull side. • Remove the existing gate or replace it with an accessible Additional Recommendations: gate.On the pull side,the gate must have a 60"level 1.Install an irrigation system if field sports are landing and at least 18"clear space alongside. encouraged Sidewalk alone Acton St. 2.Maintain field turf as part of Town's maintenance The sidewalk is in poor condition,is narrow and has program numerous tripping hazards.In some areas,sections of broken rusty fence protrude into the path of travel. 3-6-15 DRAFT 64 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 W.O.JAMES CASEY PLAYGROUND { Address: Watertown Street at Aldrich Road Owner: Town Managed By: DPW/Recreation Department Public Grants: None A.D.A.Accessibility: See Appendix A Zoning: OSC Level of Protection: Zoning Descriotlon: This 4.2 acre playground is located on the south side of Watertown Street, abutting a residential neighborhood to the east and north. There is a small on-site parking lot and street parking is available along Watertown Street. The former Parker School, now used for office space, is located on top of a hill on the southern part of the site. The hill is used for sledding in the winter months. The site has a small multi use soccer field/ softball field (updated in 2011 as a regulation Little League field), two basketball courts, two tennis courts (basketball and tennis courts were renovated in 2014), and a tot lot area. A new hockey/skating rink with boards was built in 2014. Netting was added to the Little League field to protect neighboring homes. In 2001-2002 two play structures, one for two to five year olds and one for 5 to 12 year olds were renovated. The tot lot surface is made up of poured-in-place rubber. Other improvements at that time included trees, shrubs, a disabled access table, water fountain (replaced in 2014) and benches. An irrigation system was installed in 2003. In recent years, significant improvements have been made to the Aldrich Road parking lot (including an accessible parking space) and access points. Additionally, benches, play structures and the moveable bleachers at the ball diamond have been improved or replaced. Activitv: Local active and passive recreation Recreation summer parks program Little League baseball, youth soccer and youth football Conditions Assessment and Kev Issues: • Install pre-fab small building adjacent rink which includes bathroom, storage, hot water tank and outside spicket • Reconstruct electrical box and system • Install dugouts, bench fencing, backstop fencing for baseball field • Replace baseball lighting • Install scoreboard Field Conditions: Casey Playground is irrigated. Fertilization needs are based on the results of annual soil fertility tests. 3-6-15 DRAFT 65 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Characteristic Rating Comments Turf Density 7 Good Thatch <1/2 inch Optimum Weeds 5 Center field-90% crabgrass Right field-clover and plantain Compaction 5 Optimum Tensile 3 Weeds reduce tensile strength Disease None observed Insects Grub activity observed ADA Minimum Compliance Recommendations: Watertown St.Crosswalk Minimum Compliance The crosswalk does not have curb ramps on both ends • Establish an accessible route to the court and remove nor does it align with the walkway into the park. sections of the asphalt berm. Address drainage problems. Minimum Compliance Dugout • Install curb ramps at both ends of crosswalk. Presently,this side of the ball diamond and its dug-out Watertown St Sidewalk seating areas are not easily accessed by people with Portions of the sidewalk,including where tree pits physical disabilities. formerly existed,are uneven or have significant vertical Minimum Compliance and horizontal displacement.These are tripping hazards. • All features must be located on an accessible route. Minimum Compliance • Repair accordingly. Additional Recommendations: Corner of Watertown St.and Aldrich Rd. 1.Repair cracks in tennis court area Pedestrians are confronted with significant cross-slopes, 2.Color seal court areas lengthy crossing distances and a lack of defined sidewalks 3.Address drainage problem between first and second along Aldrich Rd.The existing curb ramps do not align base with the path of travel. 4.Maintain turf conditions as part of Town's Minimum Compliance maintenance program • Establish accessible street corners. 5.Replace fabric on ball field backstop Walkway from Basketball Court to Play Structure 6.Add bathroom facilities While the walkway appears to be fairly new,it has a cross- slope that in areas is 2.5.3.1%in the direction of the catch basin.The adjacent lawn is significantly below the walkway adding an additional concern. Minimum Compliance • Cross-slopes must be brought into compliance. • The adjacent landscape grades should be raised(and maintained)to be flush with the walkway. Dui Presently,the ball diamond and its dug-out seating areas are not easily accessed by people with disabilities. Minimum Compliance • Establish an accessible route to the dugouts. • Address tripping hazards. Game Court The court is surrounded by an asphalt berm and is not on accessible route.Thus it is not easily accessed by people with mobility disabilities.The court also has some ongoing drainage and runoff problems. 3-6-15 DRAFT 66 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 CUNNIFF SCHOOL PLAYGROUND Address: 246 Warren Street _ Owner: Town Managed By: DPW/Recreation Department Public Grants: None A.D.A.Accessibility: See Appendix A Zoning: OSC Level of Protection: Zoning Descriotion: This playground serves as a playground area for the Cunniff Elementary School and a practice field for local sport teams. The site has a moderate slope toward the school making the site suitable only for practices. The field is also quite small, further restricting its use for scheduled sports practice. The site abuts residential properties to the east and south. To the west is the Ridgelawn Cemetery. The site also has a tot lot area. Through the efforts of the P.T.O. there is new equipment and the area is called the "Cunniff Cove". Since the 1996 Open Space and Recreation Plan, the Cunniff School building expanded, reducing the size of the playground. The tot lot had a new rubberized safety surface installed in 2005. Presently the slide and swing areas have a rubberized surface. The basketball court was relocated to another area of the park. It needs to be color sealed and a drain cover near the court is raised and needs to be lowered. Parking is available at the school's parking lot. Activitv: Local active and passive recreation School recess and physical education classes Youth baseball/softball Conditions and Kev Issues. • Major renovation required of facility. • Basketball court needs to be moved to create additional parking • Potential move adjacent baseball field Field Conditions: Cuniff School playground is not irrigated. Fertilization needs are based on the results of annual soil fertility tests. Characteristic Rating Comments Turf Density/Quality 2 Excessive wear Thatch <1/2 inch Optimum Weeds 1 Field is over 80%clover,plantain and crabgrass Compaction 1 Lack of turf and excess activity encourages increased compaction. 3-6-15 DRAFT 67 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Characteristic Rating Comments Tensile 3 Acceptable in turf areas Disease None observed Insects Grub activity on south facing slopes-yellowing turf The lack of irrigation and excessive activity allow for increased weed competition and population. Limited turf cover and thatch development also leads to increased compaction. An aggressive core aeration and seeding program will help relieve excessive compaction. Without irrigation, crabgrass and weeds will continue to dominate the stressed turf. 3-6-15 DRAFT 68 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 ADA Minimum Compliance Recommendations: Pathwav-Warren Street to Copeland/ Grandview code requirements including slope requirements.It Avenue (alone Plaveround and NW side of school) should also be noted that the grade of the driveway up to and new Plaveround the parking lot may be an obstacle for some low-floor The route serves users of the playground and ball vehicles. diamond.It begins adjacent to the school drop-off area Minimum Compliance and ascends,over several hundred linear feet,to reach the • Establish accessible parking spaces. intersection of Copeland and Grandview.Slopes in Front Walkways to the School certain locations,exceed 5%(1:20)and in at least one Pedestrians needing an accessible route from the sidewalk location,the slope exceeds 9%. will find that there is no accessible route.The parking lot The path is also exceptionally narrow,42 inches or less, and front walkways are several feet above the street.The for more than 300 feet.In some locations the path is 1-6 walkways have cracks and vertical displacements greater inches above the adjacent lawn or contains vertical than 1/4"that are tripping hazards. displacements.People who require space for passing, Minimum Compliance benches or level landings for resting will have significant • Establish an accessible route. challenges because there are none.Further,there are no • Repair vertical displacements accordingly. level landings where paths intersect or railings where Warren Street Mid-block crossing slopes exceed 5%. The sidewalk appears to have been recently modified with While the path goes past the ball field,it does not a driveway/curb cut.Unfortunately,the manner in which connect to it nor does the secondary path. That path it was constructed is inappropriate and consequently, currently ends at a set of fire doors instead of wrapping pedestrians now experience cross slopes of up to 16%. around the building to the ball diamond,its dug-outs and Minimum Compliance another school entrance. • The sidewalk should be torn up,a parallel curb ramp Minimum Compliance installed. • Establish an accessible route that includes level landings for • OR the crosswalk should be raised to increase the safety of every 30"of elevation gain as well as S wide passing students as well as to calm traffic speeds and the sidewalk locations. be raised to the same height. • Install a curb ramp to the drop-off area. Stairs from the main entrance to the Warren Ball diamond Street Mid-block crossing People with disabilities would likely find it difficult to The stairs,landing and adjacent hillside have experienced reach the ball diamond,bleachers,as well as the entire water damage such that the landing has sunk over an inch rear of the school. below its installed height.For stair users who are not Minimum Compliance paying attention,they can easily trip going down ending • Ensure that the features are on an accessible route. up face down on the stairs or sidewalk. Basketball Court Minimum Compliance Currently,the basketball court is not easily accessed by • Repair vertical displacements as soon as possible. most people.Both of the current entry gates are not • Install handrails on each side of the stairs. structured.For people with disabilities,neither of the entry points is accessible.There is also no accessible route Additional Recommendations: from the ball field around the court to reach the parking 1.Rebuild baseball/softball infield lot.There is no seating provided for visitors watching 2.people play.It is also unclear what purpose the catch .Address issues with drain covers in the playground 3 basin serves while it is substantially elevated above the Improve turf conditions surrounding grade. 4.Color seal basketball court 5.Create a windbreak on the west side of the park with Minimum Compliance appropriate plantings • Ensure that this is located on an accessible route and has an accessible entrance. Accessible Parkine Spaces The existing accessible parking spaces do not conform to 3-6-15 DRAFT 69 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 FILIPELLO PARK Address: Arlington Street at Elm Street Owner: Town Managed By: DPW/Recreation Department Public Grants: Land and Water Conservation Fund $463,568.23 A.D.A.Accessibility: See Appendix A Zoning: OSC _ Level of Protection: In perpetuity(Article 97) DescrlUtlon: This large park in the eastern portion of Watertown was created in the 1980's after the former Town dump was closed. The western edge of the site is now vacant since the 2004 demolition of the town incinerator. The park has two multi-use sports fields, three basketball courts, two tot lots, two picnic pavilions, a water park and paved trails. The two multi-use fields were reconstructed and irrigation systems were added to both fields. A drainage problem in the left field of the softball field is ongoing. The play equipment in both tot lots was also replaced and a rubber safety surface has been added to both tot lots. The larger tot lot was also moved closer to Arlington Street. The smaller tot lot has rubber pads to make it disabled accessible. There is tot-lot by the parking lot, geared to 2 to 5 year-olds, and an older children's tot lot. The three basketball courts were resurfaced, but one was later damaged and needs to be repaired. Both picnic pavilions were refurbished. The walkways in the park are now lighted. On-site parking is available at the eastern edge of the park. A building with bathroom facilities was added. Fencing was replaced around the softball backstop and players area, and the softball clay infield grass edge was reconfigured in 2014. Activitv: Local active and passive recreation Softball and soccer for youth and adults Water park Picnic areas Conditions and Kev Issues • Grove Street entrance and adjoining area needs renovation • Basketball courts not usable • Upgrade tables, grills and pavilions • Replace backstop and benches on the softball field • Upgrade public bathrooms • Install soccer and softball scoreboards • Reconstruct electrical box and system • Locate another area in town for snow dumping Field Conditions: ATHLETIC FIELD - Filippello athletic field is irrigated. Fertilization needs are based on the results of annual soil fertility tests. The Filippello athletic field is the only sand-based field in 3-6-15 DRAFT 70 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Watertown. The soil mix contains plastic fibers designed to add tensile strength to the turf grass. Sand based fields drain exceptionally well when properly constructed. Unfortunately, the outfield behind 2nd base and the left field foul areas tend to retain water. As a result, irrigation of this field must be closely monitored. At the time of this inspection, the left field foul line area was holding water, but not to the detriment of the turf. Present irrigation practices should be continued. As this field matures, it will be critical to core aerate at least once, and preferably twice per year. The thatch layer is over 3/4 of an inch and should be managed appropriately. Annual core aeration will maintain the thatch, compaction and drainage at optimal levels. ATHLETIC FIELD Characteristic Rating Comments Turf Density/Quality 9 Excellent Thatch >1/4 inch Weeds 9 Less than 1%coverage-some clover Compaction 5 Optimum for athletic fields—difficult to assess sub grade based on plastic fibers Tensile 5 Optimum for athletic fields-plastic fibers help to hold turf- resilience Disease None Observed Insects None Observed GENERAL FIELD - Filippello -General Activity athletic field is irrigated. Fertilization needs are based on the results of annual soil fertility tests. The right field foul area is excessively wet. Standing water was observed. Overall there is optimum moisture in the soil profile. Monitoring of the irrigation system should continue to ensure there are no irrigation breaks or malfunctioning sprinkler heads in the right field area. GENERAL FIELD Characteristic Rating Comments Turf Density/Quality 9 Excellent Thatch >3/4 inch Excellent for sports programs Weeds 1 Less than 1%weeds-some clover Compaction 5 Optimum for athletic fields Tensile 5 Optimum for athletic fields Disease None Observed Insects None Observed 3-6-15 DRAFT 71 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 ADA Minimum Compliance Recommendations: Arlineton St sidewalk at Berkelev • Interior door clearance is problematic The existing sidewalks have substantial cross slopes,are Walkwav adiacent to public restrooms narrow or impassable,and curb ramps do not conform to A water valve shut-off is protruding a couple of inches regulations. above the walk surface and is a major tripping hazard. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Ensure a minimum of 3'wide accessible route with a cross • Repair surfaces accordingly. slope of 2%or less. Walkwav from restroom to narkine lot at Berkelev • Install depressed corner curb ramps OR Street • Raise the crosswalk across Berkeley to sidewalk level. The walkway is heavily traveled.It has a walk slope in Arlineton St.sidewalk excess of 5%(7.5%in one area)for over 50'and in some The sidewalk has a cross slope from 6.5%-7.3%. locations has a cross slope in excess of 5.2%. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Bring sidewalk into compliance with a cross slope of 2%or • Either make walkway conform to walkway specifications or less. construct to ramp specifications. Southwest entrance into nark Parkine area at Berkelev Street The intersection of asphalt,concrete,and decorative Parking area does not have an appropriate pavement pavers is prone to vertical displacements.Numerous markings or signs for two spots.The spaces adjacent to tripping hazards were observed.There is also a cross slope the park walkway could be ideal for two van accessible of over 5%on the sidewalk.No accessible on-street parking spaces sharing an 8'wide access aisle. parking is designated. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Establish accessible parking spaces. • Provide accessible on-street parking. Bench near East of water feature • Reduce cross slope to 2%or less. The bushes are overhanging the benches and need to be • Repair surfaces accordingly. trimmed.People using wheelchairs or scooters cannot sit Bench near Southwest entrance alongside their companions because the concrete pad People using wheelchairs or scooters cannot sit alongside does not extend 3'on either side of the bench. their companions because the concrete pad does not Minimum Compliance extend 3'on either side of the bench. • Create clear space. Minimum Compliance Path headine east from water feature towards • Create clear space. Grove St narkine lot and nlav structure Benches facing water feature The walkway is delightfully wide and used by walkers, People using wheelchairs or scooters cannot sit alongside roller bladers,runners,and cyclists. Behind the retaining their companions because the concrete pad does not wall,whose height serves no obvious purpose,there is a extend 3'on either side of the bench. favored and active hideout for youth(evidenced by Minimum Compliance debris). • Create clear space. Minimum Compliance Public restrooms • Repair surfaces accordingly. While the restrooms are frequently used,they are not Tunction of oaths headine to/from Grove St accessible.The areas of non-compliance are outlined narkine lot. the nlav structure and the Western below: side of the nark Minimum Compliance Where the paths intersect,there is no level landing.For • Door pressure exceeds tolerances; the path heading to the parking lot,the path exceeds 5%. • Sink does not have appropriate clear space; Minimum Compliance • Sink plumbing protrudes into knee space • Regrade pathways so that they do not exceed 5%or • Grab bars are at different heights; if impossible,design a section as a ramp(1:12 max, • Slope of floor to drain exceeds 2%;and 3-6-15 DRAFT 72 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 5'level landings every 30'and handrails). The path varies in width and has some significant cross Parkine lot accessed from Grove St. slope problems.Trees also need to be headed up. The parking lot does not have appropriately located, Minimum Compliance striped,and signed accessible parking spaces.The existing • Remove existing walkway and regrade area so that a new curb ramps are non-compliant. path will be less than 5%.Cross slopes should be absolutely Minimum Compliance minimized and consider a level resting area with a bench • Replace existing curb ramps. along path.The new path should be as wide as it is today. • Establish accessible parking spaces. • Head up trees to 8'so that when wet,they do not hang • Install a curb ramp adjacent to the spaces if they are below 80". not moved to an alternate location. Establish Stairs from water feature to Dicnic pavilion area accessible parking spaces. The stairs are wide and shallow making them perfect for Drinkine fountain adiacent to Darkine lot sitting on.However,a handrail in the center would The junction of the asphalt to the pavers is a tripping benefit many. hazard. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • All stairs must have a handrail • Repair surfaces accordingly. Grills in Dicnic Davilion area Sittine and field overlook by Grove St.Darkine lot The grills that are mounted behind the retaining wall are The partially area has asphalt pavers and multiple significantly outside of the allowable reach ranges. benches.At one point it was possible to see all the way to Minimum Compliance the ball field however,the bushes have been allowed to • Features must be located within accessible reach ranges. grow to a significant height and now block much of the Toeeine Dath from Dicnic Davilion to Dlav structure view.The tree grates are in poor condition and are too The path is in good condition but,has trees that need to small for the trees.The pavers are completely uneven as a be headed up. result of both time and tree roots. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Head up trees to 8'so that when wet,they do not hang • Repair surfaces accordingly. below 80". Walkwav to Dlav structure and Davilion Toeeine Dath headine West toward flae Dole and The walkway has a slope of over 15%. olav structure Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Unless a walkway with a 5%slope can be created,the • Establish an accessible route to one table and grill. second walkway should be redesigned as a ramp,with the • Table tops should extend a minimum of 19"clear space appropriate landings and handrails. from the leg,have 30"of clear width and be at a height of • The accessible route at the pavilion should be leveled. not less than 27"to the underside of the table top. • The play structure is in need of some upgrades including an • Concrete pads should extend beyond their current accessible surface,additional play elements,and transfer dimensions to provide a stable seating area at the ends. locations. • Adjacent soil should be level at or slightly above the Basketball Court concrete pads to minimize vertical displacement and trip- From a perspective of appeal and security,the court is far ping hazards and allow access to table ends. from attractive with no active surroundings,largely Toeeine Dath at walkwav to Dlav structure invisible from the street,and is bordered by an The junction of two materials has a vertical lip in excess of abandoned industrial site and the Town's apparent a 1/2". recycling center as its adjacent neighbors.The stench of Minimum Compliance garbage and rotting compost was substantial.The court is • Repair accordingly. not easily accessed by people with mobility disabilities Plav structure entrance because chained gates block the accessible routes.Seating The entrance requires a 90 degree turn and is too narrow and shade opportunities are quite limited.The court also for a double stroller to easily navigate through.Oddly,the has some ongoing drainage and runoff problems as well as fencing appears to have been installed 6"into the non-compliant catch basin covers.Backboard poles have concrete pad. no padded wrapping. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Make entrance comply with accessible entrance • Establish an accessible route to and into the court from requirements. both ends. Plav structure transfer location • Install accessible grate covers. This location is missing the bottom transfer step. • Address drainage problems. Minimum Compliance Walkwav from Darkine lot. Dast basketball courts. . Reinstall transfer step. to Grove St. Entrance from Dlav structure to field 3-6-15 DRAFT 73 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 The gate has the same poor design as the previous one • Repair accordingly. however this design is complicated by its location in a Intersection of Arlington. Coolidge Hill. Crawford corner and adjacent to some benches. and Nichols Minimum Compliance The intersection is complicated by the intersection of • Make entrance comply with accessible entrance several streets,each at different grades,along with a requirements. railroad track crossing.The existing sidewalks curb ramps Plav structure surface and crossings are at best,difficult to navigate.The lengthy The surface has experienced some degradation but has crossing distances and excessive curb radii are not been repaired. contributing factors.The existing signals appear to be Minimum Compliance several decades old. • Repair accordingly. Minimum Compliance logging path along Arlington St. • Install accessible curb ramps and sidewalks. The path is in good condition but as the photos depict, Additional Recommendations have trees that need to be headed up. 1.Address drainage issues in the left field of the softball Minimum Compliance field. Designer should address and rectify this situation • Head up trees to 8'so that when wet,they do not hang 2.Design former incinerator site for recreation. below 80". Coordinate the design with Mt.Auburn Cemetery,owner Northwest entrance into park of the adjacent parcel Like the Southwest entrance,the intersection of asphalt, 3.Repair damaged basketball court concrete,and decorative pavers is prone to vertical 4.Add electrical outlet to sidewall of utility room displacements.Numerous tripping hazards were observed. Minimum Compliance HOWE PARK Address: Corner of Pleasant and Bacon Streets Owner: Town AWAMNA Managed By: DPW/Recreation Department Public Grants: None -= A.D.A.Accessibility: See Appendix A Zoning: OSC Level of Protection: Zoning 4 Descrintion: This hillside park overlooking Pleasant Street serves as a neighborhood playground. Prior to the 1996 Open Space and Recreation Plan the site had received considerable renovations including turf and drainage systems. A tot lot was added in 1996 and a rubberized safety surface in 2005. A walkway from French Street to the tot lot has been added to provide disabled access. The small, sloping field is not suitable or intended for field sports. The site has one basketball court which was replaced since the last update to this plan. New trees have been added to the park and in the future they will provide shade for the tot lot. Off-site street parking is available on Homer, French, and Bacon Streets. A dog park was added in 2014 with additional trees and benches. Activitv: Local active and passive recreation Dog recreational area 3-6-15 DRAFT 74 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Conditions and Kev Issues: Basketball court needs to be color sealed. Handicapped accessibility needed for dog park Appropriate surface installed within dog park ADA Minimum Compliance Recommendations: Walkwav from Homer 8z French Streets to Bacon considerable step down to the surface.At the bench,there Street has been considerable erosion such that the bench is over Apart from some vertical displacements,the existing 22"H.The play structure has some problems including a walkway is in fairly good condition.While the walkway lack of shade,the dark colored slide facing due south, connects to the play structure,there is no connection to some graffiti and inaccessible entrances.There is a the basketball court(Indeed,there is not even a sign secondary gate that could connect to a 5%walkway to the pointing toward the court).In most places,the walkway basketball court. slope is at or below 5%. Additionally,there are low Minimum Compliance hanging branches. • Establish an accessible route. Minimum compliance • Bring play structure and surface into • Repair vertical displacements. compliance. • Regrade adjacent landscape grade such that it • Make gate accessible. drops off no more than 5%for at least 10" Route to basketball court beyond the walkway width. Currently,there is no accessible route to the court.. • Head up trees to 8'so that when wet,they do Minimum compliance not hang below 80". • Establish an accessible route between Bacon Street sidewalk entrances,basketball court and play- The severely deteriorated 3'wide sidewalk was made out ground. of asphalt with no curbing.Its condition and narrowness Basketball court discourages use by pedestrians,though such behavior may While the court is not on an accessible route.It can be be acceptable because of the limited traffic volumes. made more accessible and attractive.For instance,the Where the walkway meets the sidewalk,there is a tripping benches and trash receptacle could be located on a new hazard and a cross slope exceeding 8%. accessible walkway along the court's edge.Likewise,a Minimum compliance section of the curb surrounding the court could be • Repair tripping hazard. ramped. • Remove section of walkway and replace with a Minimum Compliance level landing.The walkway should join the • Establish an accessible route to the court and sidewalk in a parallel curb ramp that will also other elements and install a ramp/remove provide access to the street. asphalt curb. • Replace existing sidewalk with a 5'wide sidewalk designed with a cross slope of less than Additional Recommendations: 2%. 1.This site should not be utilized for scheduled sports Sidewalk alone Pleasant Street practices because it is small and sloping. Field sports Although Pleasant Street experiences moderate traffic practices would likely result in quickly deteriorating throughout the day,the speeds are often excessive.The conditions.The site has no on-site parking,nor is there sidewalk is significantly degraded including curb stones much on-street parking in the abutting neighborhood. which have sunk considerably.Curb ramps do not exist. The parking arrangement and small area makes use of this There is no pedestrian crossing to the MDC walkway. site generally limited to the surrounding neighborhood. Minimum Compliance This park offers an excellent play area for the • Provide an accessible route. neighborhood's younger children as well as both passive • Provide curb ramps and crosswalks. and active recreation opportunities for adults. Entrance into tnlav structure 2.Install an irrigation system Currently,the entrance opening is narrower than the 3.Color seal the court area walkway leading to it or the pad on the inside of it.The 4.Extend fence line gate is not accessible and is likely unnecessary. 5.Add handicapped parking Minimum Compliance 6.Replace trees that were taken down along Bacon Street • Ensure a 3'wide opening. 7.Add benches • Make gate accessible. Plav structure.surface and bench The existing surface is not accessible and there is a 3-6-15 DRAFT 75 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 LINEAR PARK Address: Between municipal parking lot at Town Hall and Waverley Avenue Owner: Town Managed By: DPW/Recreation Department Public Grants: None A.D.A.Accessibility: See Appendix A Zoning: Two Family Level of Protection: Zoning Descriotion: This is a paved tree-lined linear path that runs from the municipal parking lot at Town Hall, past the Boys and Girls Club, across Whites Avenue to Waverley Avenue. A mural was painted on an adjoining wall by high school students in 2013. Conditions and Kev Issues: • Install curb cuts at the street intersections • Make width of path uniform • Install lighting and prune overgrown plantings • Watertown Community Path -Extend the path to Charles River via Howard Street as well as through the municipal parking lots to connect it to the Arsenal Street Corridor and the Watertown-Cambridge Greenway • Change zoning to Open Space Conservancy 3-6-15 DRAFT 76 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 LOWELL SCHOOL PLAYGROUND Address: Corner of George Street and Lowell Avenue Owner: Town Managed By: DPW/Recreation Department «� Public Grants: None A.D.A.Accessibility: See Appendix A Zoning: OSC Level of Protection: Zoning Description: The area behind the Lowell School serves as the school's playground, a heavily used little league/softball practice field, and as a neighborhood play area for younger children. The site provides one small little league/softball field, one basketball court, and two tot lot play areas (one in the front and the other in the back). There are two handicap parking spaces near the playground. The tot lots were reconstructed in 2001, and both received a rubberized safety surface in 2005. The tot lot equipment near the front door of the school was purchased by the P.T.O. and is in need of redesign. The basketball court was also reconstructed during renovations. A retaining wall, new benches and a backstop along with a new infield were installed in 2000. An irrigation system was added to the playing field in 2001. The site utilizes the school's parking lot area. Activitv: Local active and passive recreation School softball Youth softball/baseball Watertown Recreation Department activities School recess and physical education classes Conditions and Kev Issues: • Basketball court needs to be renovated color sealed • Lighting pole and fixture renovated • Batting cage installed for softball/baseball program Field Conditions: Lowell School playground is irrigated. Fertilization needs are based on the results of annual soil fertility tests. Characteristic Rating Comments Turf Density/Quality 9 Excellent Thatch <1/2 inch Optimum Weeds 4 Overall good-Center Field-clover/chickweed Compaction 5-6 Optimum for athletic fields Tensile 5 Optimum for athletic fields 3-6-15 DRAFT 77 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Characteristic Rating Comments Disease Brown Patch. Not active—no turf loss Insects None observed ADA Minimum Compliance Recommendations: note the more than 1"vertical displacement(bump) Sidewalk, curb ramp, and crosswalk at Lowell where the access aisle meets the sidewalk. School entrance Minimum compliance The existing concrete has degraded significantly, • Repair vertical displacement. including on the ramp to the school(not shown).There is • Establish accessible parking spaces. a confluence of slopes that could conceivably be reduced. Sidewalk from accessible parkine to York Street Minimum Compliance The existing sidewalk has a cross slopes up to 2.7%. • Replace existing surfaces and minimize slope conditions. Minimum Compliance Crosswalk from play structure and sidewalk alone • Ensure that cross slopes do not exceed 2%. school Intersection of York 8z Lowell Streets There are no curb ramps at either end of the crosswalk. The curb ramps should have been constructed as parallel Portions of the sidewalk are uneven or have significant curb ramps.Apex curb ramps,presuming a 6"curb height vertical and horizontal displacement.These are tripping and a 4'level landing at the top,can not be used in hazards. sidewalks narrower than 10'.Also there is a drainage Minimum Compliance problem. • Install curb ramps. Minimum compliance • Repair surfaces accordingly. • Install accessible curb ramps. Accessible parkim spaces opposite main school Sidewalk along York Street entrance The sidewalk is in fairly good condition though it narrows People who want to use these spaces will find that they are at the trunks of trees and has some vertical displacements. not appropriately dimensioned(too narrow),signed,and Some tree branches are hanging below eye level. have cross slopes that exceed maximum tolerances.Also Minimum Compliance • Head up trees to at least 80"where trees overhang path. 3-6-15 DRAFT 78 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 • Repair or repave asphalt to eliminate vertical Minimum Compliance displacements. • Repair sidewalk accordingly. Ball diamond and bleachers Georee St and rear drivewav of Lowell School Currently,there is no accessible route to reach either the The existing sidewalk,curb ramps and crosswalks are ball diamond or the bleachers above it. poorly designed.Complicating matters is a catch basin Minimum Compliance whose foundation may have partially failed. • Establish accessible route to bleachers and ball diamond. Minimum Compliance Ball diamond dueouts • Bring sidewalk and curb ramps into compliance. The existing dugouts are not connected to an accessible Parkine area behind school route. Currently,the sidewalk is impassable and the accessible Minimum compliance parking spaces are not appropriately identified. • Link the dugouts to an accessible route. Relocate Minimum Compliance the trash cans into the corners of the dugouts and • Trim greenery to be clear of the accessible route. out of the path of travel. Repair vertical • Establish appropriate striping and signage for accessible displacements as soon as possible. parking spaces. Basketball court Walkwav and sidewalk adiacent to swines The court,bench,and trash can are not located on an The intersection of the walkway and sidewalk has a cross accessible route.There is little shade for the basketball slope over 2.5%. court.One of the backboard poles and the telephone pole Minimum Compliance do not have padded wrapping. • Ensure that cross slopes do not exceed 2%. Minimum Compliance Benches near swines • Establish an accessible route to the court and other People using wheelchairs or scooters cannot sit alongside elements. their companions because the concrete pad does not Bench facing Southwest at tnlav structure extend 3'on either side of the bench. The bench pad is not wide enough to provide a 3'wide Minimum Compliance clear space alongside the bench.There is considerable • Create clear space. erosion alongside the bench where there is an opening in Additional Recommendations: the fence to access the play structure. Field management also needs to be vigorously Minimum Compliance enforced to prevent the field's decline. • Establish an accessible route to the bench. Recommended management measures include: Plav structure walkwav reducing the number of scheduled activities to a The play structure walkway was selectively widened but level below the point of field degradation,restrict or the new pads are not level with the existing concrete. Further,there are expansion joints wider than 1/2"and bar teams that fail to use the field properly,and the widening may not provide adequate drainage. require teams to contribute to the field's Minimum Compliance maintenance. • Repair all vertical displacements. Fill all cracks with flexible caulking so that they are flush with the adjacent Lowell Park: surfaces. 1.Maintain turf conditions as part of town's maintenance Bench in olav structure program People using wheelchairs or scooters cannot sit alongside 2.Improve areas at each end of the retaining wall of J. their companions because the concrete pad does not Malcolm Whitney Baseball Field where there is erosion extend 3'on either side of the bench.Minimum 3.Install barrier at east side of park to keep balls from Compliance going onto George Street • Create clear space. Lowell School Plaveround: • Ensure landscape grade is flush with the concrete. 1.Redesign tot lot at the front of the school Lowell St Entrance into nlav structure 2.Improve area by front entrance of school The entrance is slightly larger than others such as 3.Consider installing an irrigation system to front lawn Filippello Park because the vertical stand alone element is of school pulled back.However,the triangular concrete pad is not 4.Add bathroom facilities wide enough for an accessible route. Minimum Compliance • Ensure that the element is removed so that it does not block the accessible route OR enlarge the concrete pad. Georee St.at Lowell St.(Lookine North) The existing sidewalk is narrow and has multiple vertical displacements. 3-6-15 DRAFT 79 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 MOXLEY PLAYGROUND Address: Corner of Westminster Avenue and �s= Bemis Street Owner: Town Managed By: DPW/Recreation Department Public Grants: None A.D.A.Accessibility: See Appendix A Zoning: OSC Level of Protection: Zoning Description: This large multi-use site serves as a major field sport resource for the Town. The site provides one full sized soccer/football field, one baseball field, two tennis courts (with lights), one basketball court (with lights), a batting cage (netting was added in 2012), and two tot lot areas. A field house/locker room building was rebuilt in 2001. The two tot lots were built in 2003 and were resurfaced with a new rubberized material in 2014. One is designed for youngsters 2 to 5 years of age and the other for youngsters 5 to 12 years of age. Both tot lots have rubberized safety surfaces. The site is situated directly to the south of the Watertown Middle School. Parking is available both on-street and on-site at the school's parking lot. The field received major renovations in 2001. The field has an irrigation system that was improved during the building of the field house. Activitv: Local active and passive recreation Middle school physical education class School Department baseball, soccer and football Youth baseball, football and soccer Adult baseball Watertown Recreation Department activities Recreation summer parks program School recess and physical education classes Conditions and Kev Issues. Although the site has one of the most utilized fields in the Town the extensive maintenance activities appear to be holding the field's overall condition above what would be expected given this enormous use. The field's heavy usage and prominence may pose an advantage over other sites in that teams that use the field must use them with the least damage possible; degradation of the fields would not be tolerated by subsequent players. Under this scenario field management is implemented more aggressively, and consistently, than at other sites due to the need for continuous intervention and scheduling by the Recreation Department and Public Works to respond to user needs and complaints. It is recommended that the intensity of field use be decreased if field degradation is to be prevented. This decrease in use will allow for proper field rejuvenation cycles. 3-6-15 DRAFT 80 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 • Reconstruct basketball, tennis and lighting system • Replacement of back stop, team benches fencing, fencing on first base side and Westminster Ave. needs to be replaced. • Replace cement pads for bench areas • Replace batting cage and netting system • Replace benches in tot lot Field Conditions: Moxley Playground is irrigated. Fertilization needs are based on the results of annual soil fertility tests. Characteristic Rating Comments Turf Density/Quality 8 Very good Thatch <1/2 inch Optimum Weeds 3-4 Clover/crabgrass Compaction 7 Moderately compacted Tensile 8 Good tensile strength Disease None observed Insects None Observed 3-6-15 DRAFT 81 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 A1DA Minimum Comvliance Recom endations: Sidewalk at the corner of Main and Westminster While this is an obvious pedestrian connection and one Streets that should be encouraged,it is not marked even with a Pedestrians walking along the Westminster Street crosswalk.It also needs an accessible curb ramp on the sidewalk do not have a clear path of travel because of the west side.The crossing and the accompanying traffic broken,uneven and poorly patched sidewalks. volume is similar to many along the Minuteman Trail that Minimum Compliance runs from Alewife to Bedford. • Repair surface accordingly. Minimum Compliance • Replace curb ramps at crosswalk. • Install curb ramps. Southwest entrance along Westminster St Ball diamond S.dugout Sidewalk Presently,the ball diamond and its dug-out seating areas The existing entrance appears to be heavily used however are not easily accessed by people with disabilities because there is no accessible route from this gate to any of the they do not link to an accessible route and the concrete features within the park including the batting cage,ball pads do not extend to the traditional standing points. diamond or the pedestrian connection to the rail trail Minimum Compliance running from Waverly Street to Saltonstall Park.The • Establish an accessible route to the dugouts. batting cage gate and ground surface is not accessible. • Address tripping hazards. Minimum Compliance Bleachers at Ball Diamond • Establish an accessible route to all features. The bleachers are considerably worn and not • Make gate accessible. appropriately located. Potential walkway between from battinji cage, past Minimum Compliance monument to ball diamond and Waverly Street • The bleachers should be located on an accessible route with The walkway could run parallel to the fence line but just adequate clear space around them for people to sit north of the monument and tree line.It would be beyond alongside and in front of them. the boundaries of the soccer field and well beyond the Ball diamond E.dueout baseball foul line. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Establish an accessible route to the dugouts. • Establish an accessible route connecting all of the features. • Address tripping hazards. Pedestrian route from ball diamond to Waverly Stairs to Linden Street Street The existing stairs are uneven(the top step is 9 1/2" Park users entering/exiting at this location are high),lack handrails,and there is nothing to prevent confronted by low hanging branches and significant running fielders from falling down them. vertical displacements(tripping hazards).The area also Minimum Compliance appears to be used as an unofficial parking location.As • The stairs,if worked on significantly,would need to be such,the current entry point is challenging but can easily brought into full compliance. be fixed.The sidewalks on the West side of Waverly Walkway to Bemis Street Street are deteriorated and significantly overgrown. There is a tripping hazard because the mulch will never be Minimum Compliance flush with adjacent surfaces • Head up trees to at least 8'where trees overhang path. Minimum Compliance • Eliminate vertical displacements and tripping hazards. • Address tripping hazards. • Repair or replace sidewalks as needed. Grassy strip between play surface and walkway Pedestrian crossing of Waverly Street at rail trail When the accessible play surface was installed,the grass 3-6-15 DRAFT 82 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 adjacent to it was not graded appropriately such that it The existing walkway has eroded,is uneven and its slope has a rut and then juts up creating both a tripping hazard exceeds 5%but it is not designed as a ramp.It narrows at and potential for a twisted ankle. the gate.The gate is inaccessible. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Address tripping hazards. • Establish an accessible route to all features. Corner of Bemis and Waverlv Streets 0 Make gate accessible. The intersection is utilized by families,children and Walkwav from field house to Westminster St. senior citizens to either reach Moxley Playground or the The existing walkway has a 10%running slope and a cross adjacent school.The existing curb ramps are not compli- slope of over 4.5%.The walkway needs to be replaced. ant and there is no accessible route to the apartment Minimum Compliance building. • Establish an accessible route from the field house to the Minimum compliance Westminster sidewalk. • Install accessible curb ramps. Intersection of Westminster and Bemis Streets Walkwav headine to school crossine of Bemis The existing sidewalks have cross slopes and vertical Street displacements in excess of maximum tolerances.The The existing walkway has a running slope of over 8%and existing apex curb ramps are not compliant and are has some cross slope conditions. worsened by the corner radii. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Ensure that the walkway does not exceed 5%or if it is • Install accessible curb ramps. treated as a ramp,it cannot exceed 8.3%and must have • Ensure sidewalks have cross slopes of less than 2%. railings. • Repair vertical displacements. • Remove tripping hazards Sidewalk alone Westminster School crossine at Bemis Street The existing sidewalk is breaking up,has some cross slope The sidewalk has some cross slope conditions as well as concerns and the adjacent 18"green strip is not flush vertical displacements.At the crossing,a curb ramp is with the sidewalk. missing on the school side and on the Moxley side,a Minimum Compliance driveway curb cut acts as a curb ramp.There is no level • All features must be located on an accessible route. landing at its top before it starts descending as the park • Repair surfaces accordingly. walkway. Additional Recommendations: Minimum Compliance 1.Repair cracks in surface of court area • Install accessible curb ramps. 2.Color seal court area Surface and seatine conditions around nlav 3.Address water runoff issue at field house roof structures 4.Maintain turf conditions as part of town's maintenance While visiting the play structures,all of the shaded program benches were in use and the sunny benches were avoided. 5.Add electrical outlet at batting cage The concrete surface was in good condition apart from 6.Add handicapped parking spaces some minor vertical displacements 7.Add storage container behind baseball backstop Minimum Compliance • Repair vertical displacements. Tennis Court Gate adiacent to nlav structures Despite frequent usage,the courts do not have formalized entry points on at least two sides.The formal entry is via the basketball court.This entry point is challenging. Minimum Compliance • Make gate accessible. Connect from the SW entry of smaller nlav structure to the field house Despite a clear desire line worn into some areas of the landscape there is no formal walkway between the two areas.In fact,there is no accessible route from either of the play structures to the field house. Minimum Compliance • Establish an accessible route to all features. Walkwav between field house and basket ball court 3-6-15 DRAFT 83 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 O'CONNELL PLAYGROUND Address: Corner of Mt.Auburn and Boylston Streets Owner: Town Managed By: DPW/Recreation Department Public Grants: None s- A.D.A.Accessibility: See Appendix A Zoning: OSC -A Level of Protection: Zoning Descrintlon: This site serves as a playground area for the Hosmer School as well as a field sport space for several local teams. The site also functions as a neighborhood tot lot. The site has one multi-use soccer/field hockey field, one lacrosse field, two softball/baseball fields, one basketball court, a street hockey court, and two tot lots. One of the softball field infields is skimmed and clay was added for use by high school softball teams in 2014. Parking is provided on-site at the school's parking lot. The site last had major renovations or improvements in 2003 as part of the school renovation project. A new disabled access tot lot was installed in 2003 with a rubberized safety surface. This tot lot was built by a combined effort of students, teachers and parents. A new basketball court was built as a part of the school renovation project. A batting cage was erected in 2000. An irrigation system and new backstop were added to the field in 2001. During the fall, late spring, and summer months the field areas are used every day for scheduled team sports and school gym classes. Activitv: Active and passive recreation School Department soccer, lacrosse and softball School recess and physical education classes Recreation Department Activities Youth soccer, lacrosse and softball Conditions and Kev Issues. • Shade trees at the tot lot are in poor health due to poor siting • Stamatakis playground needs to be redone with resurfacing • Extend surface of baseline end of basketball/hockey court • Install artificial grass by playground • Batting cage replacement • Replace fencing along parking lot • Resurface parking lot Field Conditions: O'Connell athletic field is irrigated. Fertilization needs are based on the results of annual soil fertility tests. 3-6-15 DRAFT 84 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Characteristic Rating Comments Turf Density/Quality 9 Very Good Thatch <1/2 inch Optimum Weeds 3 Clover and Plantain throughout Compaction 5 Optimum for athletic fields Tensile 5 Optimum for athletic fields Disease None observed Insects Several patches of yellowing with grubs observed 3-6-15 DRAFT 85 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 ADA Minimum Compliance Recomgkendations: Mt.Auburn St.Sidewalk anticipate the preferred standing location.Further,the Pedestrians walking along the Mt.Auburn Street sidewalk brown gear box's present location narrows the walkway. do not have clear path of travel because of a variety of Minimum Compliance vertical displacements(tripping hazards)and eroded • Install an accessible route connecting all features. concrete • Repair surfaces and repair vertical displacements. Minimum Compliance Southwest Bate to ball diamond • Repair accordingly. The existing passageway is awkward,significantly rutted East entrance from Mt.Auburn St. and is a barrier for many people with disabilities. The existing entrance is informal-an opening in the Minimum Compliance fence,and is not readily visible. The entrance is not • Create an accessible entrance that connects with an accessible and does not connect to an accessible route accessible route to all amenities on site. serving the features within the facility. Battine caee Minimum Compliance The batting cage is not connected to an accessible route. • Continue the concrete through the opening so there is a 4' The ground surface in the cage and the gate is not deep pad connecting to the phone. accessible. • Ensure that the adjacent landscaping is raised to be flush Minimum Compliance with the pad. • Establish an accessible route to all features,including • Establish an accessible route to all features. batting cage. Mid-block crossine of Mt.Auburn Street • Relocate gearbox and create a 5'wide accessible route to The existing curb ramps are not in compliance and slope the scoreboard so everyone can keep score. conditions are worsened by the high crown of the road. • Make gate accessible. Using bulb-outs,the slopes may be minimized and the Bleachers and field entrance crossing distance could be shortened. There is no accessible route connecting the courts to the Minimum Compliance bleachers from either the dugout or the park entrance • Replace curb ramp on park side. shown below. • Use a combination curb ramp so that sidewalk width is Minimum Compliance maintained. • Establish an accessible route between the facilities. • Make opposite curb ramp compliant. • Add a concrete pad under the bleachers and extend it 4'on Park bench alone Mt.Auburn all sides of the bleachers. Despite having a good location and shade,the existing West entrance to t)lav structure bench is not easily accessed and has significant erosion The entrance does not connect to an accessible route. under it. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Re-grade landscaping to be flush. • Establish an accessible route to the bench. • Maintain periodically. Dirt lot and field entrance at Mt. Auburn & Plav structure surface Bovlston Streets The play structure surface is accessible however,in several The lot appears to be overflow parking.Access to the field locations it has worn away,or sunk below the adjacent for mowers occurs here. walkway.Each situation is a tripping or twisted ankle Minimum Compliance hazard. • Establish an accessible route to the field entrance. Minimum Compliance Potential walkwav from field entrance to dueouts • Repair accordingly. The features are not connected to an accessible Plav structure route. The play structure is in good condition and has numerous Minimum Compliance play elements at both ground and elevated levels. • Provide an accessible route to all features. Minimum compliance SW ball diamond dueout gads and benches • Install transfer stations in accordance with ADAAG 15.6. Currently,the ball diamond and its dug-out seating areas Connection from nlav structure to basketball court are not easily accessed by people with disabilities.There is The current walk surface is uneven and unstable.A erosion at the ends of the concrete dugout pads resulting person using a wheelchair will get their foot rests caught in 1"+tripping hazard.People with disabilities cannot in mesh on gate. traverse the area behind the backstop because the Minimum Compliance concrete does not extend around the back stop.When • Establish an accessible route to court. the dugout pads were poured,their design did not • Make gate accessible. 3-6-15 DRAFT 86 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Walkway around play structure • If these spaces are for public use,establish accessible There is an apparent drainage and run-off problem here. parking spaces including van accessible spaces. Minimum Compliance • Provide an accessible route to the court. • Maintain an obstacle free accessible route. Winthrop Street sidewalk Path around vlav structure The existing sidewalk is significantly degraded,has many The accessible route is excessively narrow;in some cases, vertical displacements and is overgrown. it is only 3'wide.The landscaping surface is no longer Minimum Compliance level with the walkway,creating a tripping hazard. • Repair accordingly. Minimum Compliance Additional Recommendations: • Walkways less than 60"wide are required to have frequent 1.Repair depression caused by pipe giving way in new tot 60"x 60"passing locations. lot(Contractor's responsibility) • Re-grade adjacent landscape grade such that it drops off no 2.Repair rubberized safety surface at tot lot(Contractor's more than 5%for at least 10"beyond the walkway width. responsibility) Picnic table facing play structure 3.Improve turf conditions(part of the Town's This attractively designed picnic area that offers a mix of maintenance program) sun and shade! 4.Replace Red Oaks as necessary;tree planting on north Minimum Compliance and south side of park • Re-grade adjacent landscaping to be flush with walkway. 5.Entrances to park need improvement Curb ramp and crosswalk at NW corner of 6.Add bathroom facilities Winthrop and Hancock Y.Add electrical outlet to batting cage While this curb ramp is fairly new,there is a vertical lip at the bottom and there is a significant run-off problem from the adjacent landscaping.Also,the material used for the crosswalk markings is slippery. Minimum Compliance • Repair all vertical displacements. Basketball court The basketball court is not connected to an accessible route. Minimum Compliance • Provide an accessible route to all features. Parking lot at basketball court Parking is provided but there are no accessible parking spaces. Minimum Compliance SALTONSTALL PARK Address: Corner of Main Street and Whites Avenue Owner: Town Managed By: Recreation Department Public Grants: None A.D.A.Accessibility: See Appendix A Zoning: OSC Level of Protection: Article 97 Description: 3-6-15 DRAFT 87 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 This is a multi-use site located directly behind and beside Town Hall. Metered parking is available. It is heavily used for a variety of sports as well as for casual recreation due to its centrality. The Park provides a paved memorial area that is used for outdoor concerts in the summer months and provides shade for weary pedestrians. Facilities include one basketball court (resurfaced and painted, and a scoreboard and time clock were added in 2014), one tot lot, one lighted softball field, and several park benches (new granite benches were dedicated in 2014). The Boys & Girls Club building is located on the Whites Avenue side of the Park. The site is directly accessed from Main Street and via Linear Park which has its entrance near the Boys & Girls Club building. The field has lighting for evening sports. Activitv: Active and passive recreation Boys and girls club activity Middle School field hockey Youth baseball/softball, soccer and football Conditions and Kev Issues. The present conditions of the passive component of this Park are fair. While the trees, park benches, and memorials appear to be in good condition, the concrete paved surfaces are in need of immediate care. In 2001 the field received major renovations, an irrigation system, backstop and new player's benches. Subsequently, the field has received an intensive program of turf management to address soil compactions issues that arose during its reconstruction. Many trees were added to the park, including several Cherry trees. A new tot lot for 2 to 5 year olds was constructed in 2003. This area has a rubberized safety surface. Work was done on the plaza to improve its condition. The lighting system needs to be renovated. Field Conditions: Saltonstall athletic field is irrigated. Fertilization needs are based on the results of annual soil fertility tests. Characteristic Rating Comments Turf Density/Quality 9 Excellent Thatch 1/2 - 1/4 inch Optimum Weeds 2 Overall excellent some clover and crabgrass Compaction 1-2 Very hard subsurface—sub grade contains clay/fines which may impede drainage and increase compaction. Tensile 5 Optimum for athletic fields Disease None observed Insects None Observed Saltonstall should be core aerated at least once per year. Core aeration will remove turf plugs, decrease compaction and improve drainage. 3-6-15 DRAFT 88 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 ADA Minimum Compliance Recommendations: Recommendations: condition. Intensive management techniques need to The central location of this park makes it subject to continue in order to prevent future degradation of this extensive use;indeed,the field area is used almost every field. At a minimum,the number of permits issued for day and night. Such extensive field use requires field use should be held to a level that will prevent overall extraordinary maintenance and management to prevent field decline. Rejuvenation cycles should also be degradation.The field area at present is in good implemented. SULLIVAN PLAYGROUND Address: Corner of Mt.Auburn and Arlington Streets Owner: Town Managed By: DPW/Recreation Department Public Grants: None A.D.A.Accessibility: See Appendix A Zoning: OSC -"} Level of Protection: Zoning DescriDtlon: This site is located adjacent to the Apartments at Coolidge School and Mount Auburn Street. Arlington Street is the western edge of the site. The Coolidge School is currently vacant. Facilities provided at the site are: one small Little League/softball field, one tot lot, and one basketball court. The field area is used approximately four evenings per week and numerous practices are held on the weekends. In 2002, the park received major renovations. The playing field was renovated and an irrigation system, outfield fence, ball field backstop and new player's benches were installed. The basketball court was rebuilt and many trees were added to the park. A tot lot providing disabled access was installed with a rubberized safety surface. Activitv: Active and passive recreation Conditions and Kev Issues: The site is constrained by its location. High flying softballs pose a hazard to vehicles on adjacent streets and to children playing at the site. For this reason the softball area is restricted for practice for the youngest children. The basketball court has a high fence to keep stray balls from the busy street intersection. Sullivan Plawround Sullivan School playground is irrigated. Fertilization needs are based on the results of annual soil fertility tests. 3-6-15 DRAFT 89 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Characteristic Rating Comments Turf Density/Quality 5 Excessive wear/damage Thatch <1/2 inch Optimum Weeds 1 Significant clover and crabgrass Compaction 3 Very Compacted Tensile 5 Optimum for athletic fields Disease Brown patch. Not active—no turf loss Insects None observed ADA Minimum Compliance Recommendations: Plavaround entry Late at Mt.Auburn St. than 1/4"(tripping hazards). The gate lacks a solid surface at bottom 18"of the push Minimum Compliance side of gate.A person using a wheelchair will get foot rests • Repair vertical displacements accordingly. caught in mesh. Walkway in front of drinking fountain Minimum Compliance The walkway has cracks and vertical displacements greater • Make gate accessible. than 1/4"(tripping hazards). Bench facing play structure Minimum Compliance People using wheelchairs or scooters cannot sit alongside • Repair vertical displacements accordingly. their companions because the concrete pad does not Tunction of walkway to basketball courts extend on either side of the bench. The joint has splayed and there are vertical displacements Minimum Compliance greater than 1/4"(tripping hazards). • Create clear space. Minimum Compliance • Head up trees to at least 80"where trees overhang path. • Repair vertical displacements accordingly. Path around play structure Walkway to ball field Late Low hanging branches are a problem.The bench seat is The walkway has vertical displacements greater than 1/4" narrow and there is no pull-off space at ends of bench. (tripping hazards). Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Repair benches and head up trees to at least 80"where • Repair vertical displacements accordingly. trees overhang path. Gate into ball field Path around play structure The gate does not open fully and the surface at the gate is The accessible route narrows considerably to 3'wide or inaccessible.The gate lacks a solid surface at bottom 18" less in some spots and the play structure surface is no of the push side of gate.A person using a wheelchair will longer level with the walkway,creating a tripping hazard. get foot rests caught in mesh.Further,there is currently Minimum Compliance no accessible route from this entry gate to the score board • Repair accordingly. or dugouts. Play structure Minimum Compliance The play structure offers a variety of engaging elements at • Make gate accessible. the surface and above however there are few transfer Dugout-East side stations.The structure is partly shaded but the west facing The grade of the field is 1-3"below the concrete pad. slide can still be hot to the touch. Minimum Compliance Recommendation • Repair vertical displacements as soon as • Add two transfer stations,one at each end. possible. • Provide additional grab bars at the top of the slides. Dugout-North side • Investigate additional locations for shade trees. The placement of the bleachers creates a pinch point with Walkways through the play structure the adjacent fence,thereby blocking the accessible route The walkway is quite narrow and the walkways have cracks to the other dugout. and vertical displacements greater than 1/4"(tripping Minimum Compliance hazards). • Ensure there is an accessible route around the Minimum Compliance bleachers in addition to 3'wide clear spaces on • Repair vertical displacements accordingly. either end of the bleachers. Walkways to ball field and basketball court • Repair vertical displacements accordingly. The walkway has cracks and vertical displacements greater Walkway from bleachers to Arlington St. 3-6-15 DRAFT 90 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 The walkway is narrow and there is not enough space to Mt.Auburn St. get around the bleachers.It is unclear why the walkway's The existing walkway exceeds ramp slope tolerances(1:12) width is so constricted given the width of the dugout pad but is treated as a walkway.The tree branches hang at eye and the desirability of additional space around the level. bleachers or room for additional bleachers. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance. • Install an accessible walkway. • Maintain a minimum width of 3'accessible • Head up trees to 80"minimum. path of travel with one 5'x5'passing spot. Intersection of Mt.Auburn and Arlinjiton Sts. Field entrance alone Arlington St. The existing pedestrian signal buttons do not comply in The existing entry and adjacent vehicle gate have dimension or force required for activation.They have no numerous obstacles including grading,cross slope, audible accessible features.The existing curb ramps have a pavement deterioration,etc.The adjacent driveway apron variety of violations as well as drainage problems.Finally, is in complete disrepair and cannot be patched as is the combination of excessive curb radii and lengthy because even when new,it had portions which had a cross crossing distances create a challenging pedestrian slope exceeding 14%. environment. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance. • Establish an accessible entry. • Replace pedestrian signals with code compliant • Replace the adjacent driveway apron such that signals. there is a minimum of a 3'path of travel with a • Bring curb ramps into compliance. cross slope at or less than 2%. Arlington St.Heading to Mt.Auburn St. Additional Recommendations: The sidewalk and street appears to have some underlying 1.Given the inherent limitations of the field drainage problems which are undermining the sidewalk. location and the lack of adjacent open area, Currently,the concrete pad is not level with the top of the curb and this is exacerbating the cross slope.The cross extensive expansion of field activities does not slope in numerous locations exceeds 2%and in some appear to be advisable.The continued practice of spots,approaches 5%.It is also unclear why the light pole limiting practices to younger children will help keep is in the path of travel rather than along the curb or in fly balls out of the street,but adult supervision is the grass. necessary. Minimum Compliance 2.Add bathroom facilities • The sidewalk should be torn up and replaced with a sidewalk with a cross slope at or less than 2%. Gear box There is no accessible route to the gear box. Minimum Compliance • Establish an accessible route to the box • OR relocate the box to be along an accessible route. Walkway and entrance into basketball court from 3-6-15 DRAFT 91 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 VICTORY FIELD Address: Orchard Street at Marion Road Owner: Town Managed By: Recreation Department Public Grants: None A.D.A.Accessibility: See Appendix A Zoning: OSC Level of Protection: Zoning Descriotlon: This large, centrally located multi-use complex is the Town's most extensive sports and recreation facility. The site provides one football field, one soccer/field hockey field, one practice area suitable for soccer and football, one lighted baseball field (with dugouts), a 400 meter track, one discus pad, a long jump area, high jump area, pole vault are, shot put area, several bleachers, five tennis courts, one basketball court, one tot lot (renovated 2003), and one field house (renovated 2001). The site is adjacent to Whitney Hill Park, which was recently expanded. The Department of Public Works facility is located at the northwest end of the site. On-site parking is available. The multi-use field within the track and a baseball field was recently upgraded with artificial turf and energy efficient lighting. The baseball field includes seating and baseball related amenities (bullpen, batting cages, three scoreboards and dugouts). Goals were purchased for soccer and lacrosse use in 2013. A snack shack was installed as well. Many of these improvements, along with more efficient lighting, were recently completed as part of a multi-phase improvement program for the Field (see figure below). Y tip ■V� f� �Y 3-6-15 DRAFT 92 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Activitv: School Department baseball, field hockey, football, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, track and field High school physical education classes Recreation summer parks program Adult athletic, and recreational activities Conditions and Kev Issues: The central location and good condition of the facilities makes this site very popular with Town residents. Indeed, on any given night during seasonable months it is likely that there will be several residents exercising on the track and multiple games or practices taking place. The track has become extremely popular among seniors who congregate during the day and early evenings to walk. Conflicts have been noted between those using the track for walking and those using it for track practice. The location of a soccer field within the track area has also led to a hazard when the occasional stray ball or player will cross over the track. The track and field, tennis, basketball side of the facility are in need of major renovation. The football stands and press box were replaced and are accessible to the disabled. The tennis and basketball courts were rebuilt, and the baseball dugouts were refurbished. The field house was renovated and is ADA compliant. The overall football and soccer field conditions are in excellent condition. Fields are typically used every day during seasonal weather. The tot lot needs to be resurfaced. Additional parking, accessibility and both street and athletic facility lighting are needed. Field Conditions: The football, multi-purpose and baseball fields do not need to be irrigated or soil tested. However, they need to be maintained for artificial turf. Fertilization needs are based on the results of annual soil fertility tests. Victory Field is the centerpiece of Watertown High School Athletics. Team practice should be limited on this field, in order to protect turf quality and reduce weed infestation. In the past, the "center field" strip has been sodded to maintain turf quality. This field's primary use should be for games. The center strip is where the majority of activity during sports games takes place and subsequently where the turf is most worn. Sodding the center strip annually replaces damaged turf and removes weed species that have colonized the weakened turf stand and increases the overall life of the sports field. This practice should continue as an economical way of maintaining overall field appearance and function. Characteristic Rating Comments Turf Density/Quality 8 Very Good Thatch <1/2 inch Optimum Weeds 7 Center Field-clover/crabgrass/chickweed Compaction 5 Optimum for athletic fields Tensile 5 Optimum for athletic fields Disease None observed Insects None Observed 3-6-15 DRAFT 93 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 ADA Minimum Compliance Recommendations: • Make gate accessible. Restrooms in field house Gate to track from narkinL,area Note the following areas of concern: The path is not paved and obviously puddles. Minimum Compliance Minimum Compliance • Sink pipes should be uniformly laid out as well as wrapped. • Establish an accessible route from the parking lot to the • Entry doors weight exceeds tolerances and do not meet track. ADAAG. Bleachers and Bate in between track and tennis Ramp into rear of field house courts The ramp has a vertical lip at the bottom and is a hazard. There is no accessible route connecting the courts to the Minimum Compliance track and the bleachers are not located on an accessible • Remove vertical lip. route. Slone to access road via double Late Minimum Compliance If this is a pedestrian entrance,the existing slope is too • Establish an accessible route between the facilities. steep to be easily traversed. • Add a concrete pad under the bleachers and extend it 4'on Minimum Compliance all sides of the bleachers. • Either replace existing slope with a ramp(or a 5% Entry into nlav structure from track walkway)OR ensure an alternate accessible route is The sloped walkway does not provide a 5'level landing at nearby. the pull side of the gate.A person using a wheelchair will Sloped walkwav to lot adiacent to field house get their foot rests caught in gate mesh. This walkway has a slope of approximately 10.7%but Minimum Compliance could be fairly easily re-graded and made into a ramp. • Remove gate OR make gate accessible and Minimum Compliance establish a 5'level landing. • Either replace existing slope with a ramp(or a 5% Plav structure walkway)OR ensure an alternate accessible route is The structure is,in general,accessible;however,there is nearby. only one transfer entrance/platform. Refreshment stands servine window Minimum Compliance The window is 37"high which works for people standing • Add a transfer entrance. however it is too high for a person seated in a wheelchair Accessible walkwav around nlav structure or scooter to utilize. The Play structure,unlike others,has a wide walkway Minimum Compliance around it.The structure is fortunate to have trees around • Either provide a lower counter OR raise the exterior grade half of it to provide shade that could also shade future approximately 4"so that the counter would then be no benches and picnic tables. more than 34"high. Minimum Compliance Pathwav along basketball and tennis courts • Head up trees to at least 8'so that when wet, There is an informal pathway but it is not accessible. they do not hang below 80". Seating options are limited. Plav structure entry Bate and fencine along Minimum Compliance Orchard Street • All features must be connected by an accessible route. For scooter users or parents with double strollers,the Gate to courts entry is awkward because of its narrowness.A person A person using a wheelchair will get their foot rests caught using a wheelchair will get foot rests caught in mesh. in mesh.The gate does not open a fully because of the Minimum Compliance adjacent landscape grade and there is no connecting • Make gate accessible. accessible route. Orchard Street sidewalks Minimum Compliance The existing sidewalks have a variety of tripping hazards 3-6-15 DRAFT 94 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 including vertical displacements,holes and patches.The sidewalks are 54"wide but do not have passing locations Additional Recommendations: (5'X 5').From a practical standpoint,the sidewalks are not wide enough for two people to walk side by side 1.The present maintenance/management of this c site appears to provide adequate protection against comfortably and allow someone to pass.The planting strip is not level with the sidewalk-creating a tripping or field degradation. Minor modifications to the twisted ankle hazard.Where the strip is compacted dirt, management of field permits could reduce field pedestrians are likely crossing Orchard Street despite the practices that needlessly create centralized field absence of a crosswalk. wear. Coaches need to ensure that field practices Minimum Compliance rotate between various field areas rather than • Establishing 5'x 5'passing locations along the limiting practices to one area of the field, causing sidewalk at reasonable intervals not to exceed soil compaction,reduced turf density,and overall 200'. poor surface conditions. Coaches also need to be • Repair sidewalks accordingly. held responsible for improper uses such as Track entrance along Orchard Street sidewalk practicing in the rain,causing surface conditions to This entrance is used frequently however there is no quickly degrade resulting in the need for significant accessible route from the sidewalk to the track,despite a gentle slope.The gate is not accessible field repair.Management practices should include Minimum Compliance vigorous discipline by mechanisms such as barring • Establish an accessible route from the sidewalk future field use permits and fines for field repairs to the field. for teams that needlessly degrade the fields. • Make gate accessible. 2.Parking vehicles over the curbs in certain locations, Track entrance at parking lot such as down Marion Road towards the tennis courts,is The existing walkway is 11%.There is no level landing at generating isolated conditions of poor turf;minor repairs the gate entrance. of the asphalt curbing would help prevent this situation. Minimum Compliance 3.Resurface track • Establish an accessible route from the sidewalk 4.Install shade trees to the track. 5.Install benches • Establish an accessible route to the bench and 6.Add new lighting trash can. 7.Install new irrigation system • If gate is kept,make accessible including a level 8•Install signs to alert users of game and event schedules landing and 18"clear space on latch side. 9.Color seal the Mary Williams Shea tennis courts 10.Color seal the basketball court 3-6-15 DRAFT 95 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 WATERTOWN SQUARE - COLUMBUS DELTA Address: Watertown Square Owner: DPW Managed By: None Public Grants: None A.D.A.Accessibility: Accessing delta is an issue; once on the parcel, it is accessible Zoning: Central Business Level of Protection: Zoning Descriotlon: Passive recreation area. Condition Assessment and Kev Issues: Well maintained landscaping. Recommendations: Examine methods of providing safer access. WHITNEY HILL PARK Address: Northwest of Marion Rd and Marshall Street s, Owner: Town Managed By: DPW Public Grants: A.D.A.Accessibility: Zoning: OSC Level of Protection: Chapter 97 Descrintlon: This wooded site abuts the Victory Field complex, the Department of Public Works (DPW) facility, and a residential community to the south and east. Two identifiable unpaved paths traverse this hillside park. The site is the only naturally wooded site of this size in the Town. Condition Assessment and Kev Issues: Since the site has no maintained paths it does not require extensive DPW attention, however trash pickup and occasional tree maintenance is required. There is evidence of illegal dumping at the western edge of the site by Marlboro Terrace. Recommendations: 3-6-15 DRAFT 96 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 This site offers a passive recreational setting for birdwatchers and those out for a brief stroll, but the size and isolation of the site makes extensive use for additional activities unlikely. Maintenance practices should be adjusted to provide adequate monitoring of illegal dumping, particularly at the path entrance along Marlboro Terrace. A management plan for the site provided by the Conservation Commission will allow for removing some non-native plants, adding more native species and establishing understory growth, in partnership with Watertown High School science students. D. STATE AND FEDERALLY OWNED OPEN SPACE PARCELS DCR PROPERTY (Former General Services Administration site) at Greenough Boulevard and Arsenal Street x Address: Greenough Boulevard and Arsenal Street Owner: Department of Conservation and Recreation Managed By: Department of Conservation and Recreation Public Accessibility: None Public Grants: A.D.A.Accessibility: N/A Zoning: Industrial Level of Protection: Activity&Use Limitations,Wetlands Description: This wedge shaped parcel is approximately 12 acres and is located near the intersection of Arsenal Street and Greenough Boulevard. The site was formerly part of the Watertown Arsenal and was used for the storage of various materials including radiological waste. The site has been cleared of most of the contaminants and those that remain have been permanently capped. The capped area is a vegetated upland. A large portion of the site has been restored as a wetland area along the existing stream. Conditions and Kev Issues: A perennial stream runs through the site from Sawins Pond. An Activity and Use Limitation has been written into the deed to cover the capped contaminated area. Recommendations: • Work with DCR to plan and prepare a pathway to safely access the property. CHARLES RIVER RESERVATION Address: Southern Watertown Boundary Owner: Department of Conservation and Recreation Managed By: Department of Conservation and Recreation Public Accessibility: Unlimited A.D.A.Accessibility: Zoning: Open Space Conservancy Level of Protection: Zoning,wetlands protection(Conservation Commission) 97 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Description: The majority of the four mile southern boundary of Watertown is made up by its most important environmental resource, the Charles River. The property abutting either side of the river in Watertown is owned and maintained by the Department of Conservation and Recreation and is commonly known as the Charles River Reservation. In Watertown, the Reservation can be identified by various sections. The Watertown Dam is located just west of Watertown Square. The dam demarcates the boundary between the Upper Charles Reservation, which extends to West Roxbury, and the Charles River Basin, which extends to the Charles River Dam in Boston. Within those two sections are various amenities and lookout areas to observe a multitude of wildlife that isn't typically seen this close to a highly urbanized location. c. F 4 fr Figure 13-Charles River Starting in the Upper Charles Reservation and going west to east one can find the Blue Heron Bridge that was completed in 2005. It is a pedestrian suspension bridge crossing the Charles River as part of the river walk. The next stopping point is Cannalonga Park. This park sits near the Charles River, off Pleasant Street. Cannalonga Memorial Park has four tennis courts and two bocce courts. Visitors can have a picnic in a grassy area, relax on a bench or take a short stroll along a tree-lined path. The park is dedicated to Sgt. Thomas J. Cannalonga, the first Italian- American from Watertown killed in action during World War II. The Clarence W. Dealtry Memorial Pool is a popular location during the summer months. It is located just off Pleasant St and just west of the Watertown Dam. It sits on the edge of the Charles River allowing for excellent views of the river while cooling off under the hot summer sun. 3-6-15 DRAFT 98 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Watertown Square is the first stop after the dam. It is the busiest location along the river in Watertown. There are local shops and restaurants to visit before heading over to the Watertown Landing. The Landing is part of the area known as Charles River Park in Watertown and is located just off Galen Street and Charles River Road. This portion of the park was restored in 2012 including the dock itself as it washed away in the flooding that took place in 2010. The Landing merges in with a portion the Reservation that is locally known as the Riverfront Park. It is a larger, easily accessible park that is currently undergoing long needed restoration and renovations. Many of the concerns noted in the 2005 Open Space plan are being addressed by this restoration project. The project is to be completed in 2015 and will include a sensory trail element, that was funded in part by the Perkins School for the Blind, new pathways, lookout decks and additional benches. Also included within this portion of the park is the Farren Playground. It is the only play area associated with the Reservation that is designed for younger kids. The playground also includes a basketball court area. At the western most end of the Reservation is an area known locally as Squibnocket Park. This park is a capped and lined, fielded area that is mostly used by sunbathers and people looking to relax along the river. The site was former waste area for the Arsenal but has been remediated for passive recreation use. Another project that is underway along the Reservation is the Greenough Boulevard road diet and parkland expansion along the river corridor. The Greenough Greenway project will reclaim a mile of waterfront parkland from an overbuilt highway and establish a five kilometer path loop. 135 shade trees and drifts of wild flowers will be planted along the new path. It will address ongoing bicycle and pedestrian safety hazards adjacent to and along the roadway. 3-6-15 DRAFT 99 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 1. 1 oM. w nrwe x A��1-"t—F*�Wuv.w.w ,� -Y*� r a� '� •�� psi '-`- Figure 14— Greenough Greenway project map Conditions and Kev Issues: The restoration project has been phased into two parts. Phase I which is currently under construction starts at the Landing area and finishes just after the Fatten playground. The concern is the poor pathway conditions after the playground heading east. With much interest in Phase 1, the hope is the DCR, perhaps with the help of other partners like the Town of Watertown and the Perkins School for the Blind, will be able to fund the Phase II portion of the project which will consist of new pathways and overlooks between the Farren playground and the Watertown Yacht Club. Recommendations: 1. Identify sources of funding to complete Phase II of Restoration project for Riverfront Park. 2. Identify and coordinate with local volunteer groups (Charles River Conservancy, Friends of Riverfront Park, Trees for Watertown and others) for help with invasive species management, park clean-ups. 3-6-15 DRAFT 100 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 SECTION 6 - COMMUNITY GOALS A. DESCRIPTION OF PROCESS The Open Space and Recreation Plan Update was developed concurrent with the 2014 Comprehensive Plan. As described in Section 2, there was a robust public process during the preparation of the Comprehensive Plan, including several public forums and the use of an online public input tool called MindMixer. Open space and recreation issues were addressed in all of these forums and numerous suggestions were made that are incorporated into this Plan. One MindMixer question asked participants to identify their major concerns regarding the Town's recreational and natural open spaces. The responses, listed in order of frequency, included: • Connectivity of open spaces • Pruning, clearing and mowing • Trash collection • Overall condition of fields and equipment • Vandalism/graffiti • Invasive plants • Limits on use • Insufficient playground facilities/athletic fields • Lack of parking • Dogs (cleanup, disturbance to others) The Town is looking to address these concerns through its ongoing and planned upgrades. The Section 5 inventory details the projects completed since the last plan and the Action Plan in Section 9 includes additional scheduled improvements identified in the Town's Capital Improvement Plan. Next, visitors to the MindMixer site were asked what type of facility the Town needs more of. The responses to that question included: • Walking/bike trails • Community gardens • Canoeing/kayaking • Neighborhood parks • Dog parks • Spray parks • Picnic areas • Children's playgrounds The Town's goals and objectives for this Plan and the Comprehensive Plan, along with planned improvement and actions items, are geared toward addressing many of these comments. Moreover, 3-6-15 DRAFT 101 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 projects relating to the Charles River and bicycling and walking paths address these issues as well. Town residents were also asked to identify the open space and recreational that they visit most frequently. Charles River Reservation, Mt. Auburn Cemetery, Victory Field, Saltonstall Park, Filippello Park, Gore Place, Moxley Playground, and Dealtry Pool were mentioned the most. People liked these facilities because they provided peaceful, pleasant, attractive areas; mixed use areas for walking and playing; water views and access; community playgrounds and meeting spaces; bird/animal habitats; aesthetics; playing fields; and were dog- friendly. B. STATEMENT OF OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION GOALS Watertown's open space resources are being eroded by the pressures of incremental development. The Town has limited public open and recreational space under its stewardship that must be protected and preserved for future generations. Opportunities for the Town to acquire additional open space should be pursued. The fiscal realities of the Town may preclude the possibility of large scale public acquisition of additional open space resources. The Town has developed the following goals to maximize the available resources to their fullest potential while also attempting to stem further loss of additional open space through more restrictive policies regarding privately owned properties. The updated goals are as follows: 1. Improve the amount, accessibility, and condition of Watertown's recreational resources. 2. Preserve, protect, and enhance publicly owned conservation, passive, and active open space. 3. Encourage private land owners to permanently preserve open space on their parcels. 4. Create new opportunities for recreational access along the Charles River, such as boating, trail networks, bicycling, and appropriate related amenities. 5. Aggressively seek new funding sources for the enhancement and maintenance of the Town's open space and recreation resources. 6. Make Watertown friendlier to pedestrians and bicyclists and promote active and healthy lifestyles. 7. Improve the urban forest. 8. Improve outreach and education. 9. Improve safety in open space and recreational areas. Given the stated goals and objectives of this plan to "improve the amount, accessibility and conditions of Watertown's recreational resources", the Town has developed the following ranked inventory of parcels that should be incorporated into the Town's open space and recreation system (see "Seven Year Action Plan Map"). Strategies and coordination within various Town commissions, departments, and boards will be needed to facilitate the acquisition of these parcels. Ranked Future Acquisition Inventory 1. Any purchase of land that would facilitate a bike path west or east of Watertown Square 3-6-15 DRAFT 102 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 (Watertown Community Path). 2. Sawin's Pond to Williams Pond Greenway. 3. Remaining parcel along the south side of Walker Pond (near former Raytheon site at the western border with Waltham). 4. Any parcels that become available along Grove Street to expand Filippello Park. 5. Pocket parks wherever possible. 6. Gore Estate from Main Street to Waltham Street bordered on the west by a brook and the east by the rear of homes on Edward Road. 3-6-15 DRAFT 103 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 SECTION 7 - ANALYSIS OF NEEDS A. SUMMARY OF RESOURCE PROTECTION NEEDS Urban Forest: Watertown needs to continue to improve the health and quantity of town-owned trees which currently includes new plantings and should consider pruning for health of the urban forest. The Town should continue the tree inventory, listing the species, size, age, health, and location of each tree and ensure the management plan is kept up to date. Wetlands Protection: Watertown's Conservation Commission is responsible for the protection of wetlands under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (G.L. C. 131, §40), but the town lacks precise information about its wetlands and vernal pools. Under the Town's current zoning bylaws, development within 150' of a wetland is restricted from various uses or development. But proper delineation, mapping, and documentation of the Town's wetlands, floodplains and vernal pools is a critical need for protecting these resources. Ponds: There are several ponds that are uncared for and polluted, with the exception of those located on the grounds of Mt. Auburn Cemetery. Those ponds, such as Sawins, Williams and part of Walker ponds are so obscured by vegetation that they are largely "out of sight and out of mind". This needs to be rectified through proper clean up and oversight, although this may be difficult to achieve due to private ownership. Charles River: The river and its walkways are a tremendous asset to the Town that requires ongoing stewardship. The Town needs to continue to foster its relationship with DCR to ensure that the conditions of the Charles River and its environs continue to improve. Discharging untreated waste into the municipal storm sewers is illegal however sampling performed for the EPA various sewer outfalls into the Charles River has shown at times that some waste has flowed into the river. Watertown needs to monitor outfalls under various conditions to identify sources of contamination, treat the illegal and/or malfunctioning sewer hookups aggressively, and perform ongoing testing to address any new problems swiftly. B. SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY NEEDS Given Watertown's relatively small size and its dense population, there is always going to be the need to preserve and maintain existing open space and to expand open space opportunities to the extent possible. Opportunities such as improved access and visual connection to the Charles River will enhance an underutilized community resource. The need for open space also drives an interest in converting unused/underutilized sites like the GSA to open space. Previous surveys 3-6-15 DRAFT 104 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 captured several comments from residents including: 1. Acquire strategically located open space 2. Start a fund to buy up land for more open space; 3. Educate children about open space and the environment 4. More coverage in the Watertown Tab of all river/open space/conservation issues 5. Clean up Sawin Pond area, negotiate conservation easement, tie into GSA property 6. Maintain parks and open space 7. Lack of awareness of the existing open space in Town of Watertown 8. Need more police patrols in bike path, open space, river, parks areas 9. Improvements to river 10. Add more trees 11. Boating and other opportunities along the Charles River 12. Community Gardens Parks and Playgrounds Watertown maintains 13 multi-purpose parks and playgrounds. The size of these parks range from one acre at the Cunniff Elementary School to 14 acres at Filippello Park, which was recently upgraded. There are 16 tennis courts and 15 basketball courts with approximately half of those facilities having lights for seasonal evening use. The Town also has two street hockey courts and one skate park for all skill levels. There are nine little league size baseball/ softball fields, two major league size baseball fields, and one football field with stands that can accommodate 1,500 spectators. There are 15 tot-lots (many of which are located within the Town's park and recreation facilities) that have or will have a rubberized safety surface and new equipment. There is a 400-yard walking path at Filippello Park where young children can also ride there small bicycles. The John A. Ryan Skating Arena is a NHL-size skating rink owned and operated by the Town of Watertown. This important venue serves as the home to a number of youth and adult hockey leagues, as well as high school and collegiate school teams. The arena has a seating capacity for 1,250 spectators. It is generally open from August until April the following year and can be rented out for events such as birthday parties. The Town is also the location for Dealtry Pool, which is an outdoor facility owned and operated by DCR in the west end of Watertown. The pool is equipped with an adult lap section as well as a wading pool for younger swimmers. Due to the demand for park and field use, the Recreation Department has instituted a permit application policy for the use of fields, picnic areas, ice time at the Ryan Arena, and other facilities. These are typically issued on a first-come first-served basis. Indoor recreational facilities are maintained by the School Department and rented to the Recreation Department for their use. The Department of Public Works is charged with 3-6-15 DRAFT 105 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 maintaining the outdoor recreational facilities, although there is also some outside assistance provided by the adult youth and adult leagues, as well as private organizations that provide stewardship to specific parks. In addition to the recent improvements to Victory Field, other scheduled facility upgrades include tennis court enhancements and a multi-purpose field in Casey Park, energy efficiency improvements at several locations, playground renovations behind the police station, improvements to the Grove Street entrance at Filippello Park, and upgrades at Moxley Park. ADA The Town of Watertown has a significant number of elderly and handicapped residents and visitors who depend on open space and recreation facilities as much as or more than others. Though the recent technological advances in mobility and sports equipment provides significant opportunities for handicapped and elderly to enjoy outdoor recreation and activities, one of the most critical needs for many are simply finding access to open space. Many of the open spaces in Watertown and other older communities are antiquated in providing barrier-free access from parking and sidewalks to recreational faculties. Special provisions for the handicapped and elderly should be provided whenever a playground or other recreational facility is scheduled for renovation, and is required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). During the 2005 open space planning process the Town contracted with Adaptive Environments to undertake an assessment of Town recreational properties to determine compliance with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board. The majority of issues centered on the need to upgrade and maintain facilities to meet ADA requirements including accessible route and/or entrances; appropriate curb ramps at intersections and entrances; and correcting excessive slopes on sidewalks and pathways. The study also noted opportunities to improve conditions that go beyond minimum compliance with state and federal regulations, and incorporate more comprehensive understanding of all of the users within the Town's pedestrian and open space system. While a number of improvements have been made, including new accessible streets and sidewalks at or near open space and park areas, the Town needs to continue its program to meet ADA standards. The Town is planning on updating the ADA assessment in 2016. Recreation Programs The Watertown Recreation Department has a robust recreation program for residents of all ages. It estimates that over 2,000 residents are served through these programs annually, which are seasonal - some of them are indoors. The highest demand occurs in the summer, when the Town hires over 90 seasonal employees to run the programs to supplement the 15 - 20 year-round part-time and three full-time employees. The schedule includes after-school programs at each elementary school, seasonal sports for youth and adults, lessons and clinics, crafts, and theater programs. Watertown Recreation collaborates with Belmont Recreation to service Special Persons Organized for Recreation Time (SPORT), a special needs program. Funding is provided by the Towns of Belmont and Watertown, as well as user fees and private donations. SCORP 3-6-15 DRAFT 106 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 In 2012, the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs completed the Massachusetts' Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) to help guide the distribution of federal funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to state agencies and municipalities for the acquisition of open space, renovation of parks, and development of new parks. The SCORP is a planning document that discusses the available recreational resources in a state, as well as its needs, and identified the gaps between the two. Goals and action steps were developed after distilling all of the information gathered through the public participation process. These four goals include: 1. Increase the availability of all types of trails for recreation. 2. Increase the availability of water-based recreation. 3. Invest in recreation and conservation areas that are close to home for short visits. 4. Invest in racially, economically, and age diverse neighborhoods given their projected increase in participation in outdoor recreation. These goals will meet the needs of Massachusetts residents, but also the goals of America's Great Outdoors (AGO) for investments in urban parks and community green spaces. Multiple SCORP goals also coalesce with the Commonwealth's desire to increase the share of cyclists and pedestrians among Massachusetts transportation choices. Most importantly, the SCORP goals are consistent with the goals and objectives of this OSRP as described in Sections 6 and 8. For example, the Town is expanding its trail network and connections to other existing trails along the Charles River corridor (i.e. the Watertown- Cambridge Greenway). Additionally, the 552 Main Street Park Improvement project is located in an area identified as an environmental justice neighborhood. Finally, as noted earlier, many of the Town's diverse conservation and recreation opportunities are located in close proximity to the Town's residents. C. MANAGEMENT NEEDS Given the land use and development history of Watertown, additional acquisition of substantial new open space parcels is unlikely. Therefore, the Town's efforts are focused on maintaining and enhancing its existing open space and recreation inventory. Town residents recognize that parks, open spaces and trees create a high quality of life in Watertown and place a high value on these resources. In an effort to extend the availability of fields and courts in the Town's parks, there has been an effort to install artificial turf on a number of fields, including Victory Field. The use of artificial turf may be more expensive to install, but it can reduce maintenance needs and expenses in the long run, which may lengthen the amount of available playing time because artificial turf stands up to heavy use and requires no irrigation or trimming. Additionally, four fields are lighted, as are numerous basketball and tennis courts, to extend the number of hours of available playing time. 3-6-15 DRAFT 107 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Thus, continuing to maintain and enhance these services represent a challenge to the Town's Recreation Department and DPW. There is a solid relationship with the Parks Department within the DPW for field grooming, repairs and striping, equipment repairs, and the upgrading of picnic facilities. The Recreation Department has programmed some improvement projects for the next couple of years. In the longer term, the Department will be addressing the following issues: • Coordinate more with the senior center on programs for the elderly • Partner with clubs and other private groups such as the Boston Ski and Sports Club on programming • Establish a Park Ranger program that can welcome visitors, assist with parking, check field permits, etc. • Work with sports leagues on maintenance sites recognizing that some fields are overused because demand outstrips the supply of fields (a problem that is exacerbated when inclement weather forces cancellations). Fees for field use and recreation programs cover much, but not all, of the maintenance required. • Recreation coordinates on Health and Wellness with the School Department to coordinate programs for youth. Recreation wants to continue to integrate programs with the schools, particularly to promote public health. • Offer a more diverse range of programming • Work with the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee • Establish and monitor several dog parks within the town and adjust regulations as necessary. The Parks Division of the Department of Public Works handles all maintenance needs at 88 acres of town grounds, parks and recreational facilities comprised of 12 baseball fields, seven soccer fields, one field hockey field, one football field and two water parks (one at Filipello Park and another at Arsenal Park), and including picnic tables, cookout grills and public rest rooms. The Division interfaces with all groups using the facilities, and accordingly marks playing grounds for all baseball, football, field hockey and soccer games played by High School, Recreation Department and youth groups in the spring and fall. The Division uses the services of outside contractors to assist in parks maintenance and turf maintenance. 3-6-15 DRAFT 108 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 SECTION 8 - GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The goals and objectives of this plan provide the framework for a seven-year action plan for open space and recreational projects. As stated in Section 2, the primary purpose of this plan is to provide a consistent policy directive for Town agencies to reference to ensure that Watertown's open space and recreational resources are not lost due to the pressures of development or to uncoordinated individual actions that lose sight of the cumulative effects that these actions may have on the entire open space and recreational system. The goals and objectives were derived from the 2014 Comprehensive Plan process, the Open Space and Recreational Plan Survey and the input of the community after reviewing the 2005 Plan and current needs. GOALS 1. Imvrove the amount. accessibility, and condition of Watertown's recreational resources. 2. Preserve. protect, and enhance publicly owned conservation. vassive. and active oven space. 3. Encourage private land owners to permanently vreserve oven svace on their parcels. 4. Create new opportunities for recreational access alone the Charles River. such as boating, trail networks. bicvclin2. and appropriate related amenities. 5. ALYLYressively seek new funding sources for the enhancement and maintenance of the Town's open space and recreation resources. 6. Make Watertown friendlier to vedestrians and bicvclists and vromote active and healthv lifestvles. 7. Imvrove the urban forest. 8. Imvrove outreach and education 9. Imvrove safety in oven svace and recreational areas. 3-6-15 DRAFT 109 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 OBJECTIVES Goal 1. Improve the amount. accessibility, and condition of Watertown's recreational resources 1. Acquire open space, particularly spaces that would enhance and leverage existing resources in under-represented sections of the Town. 2. Continue to make improvements to the parks and fields. 3. Increase recreational space at the Charles River. 4. Provide more swimming options. Goal 2. Preserve. protect, and enhance publicly owned conservation. passive. and active open space. Objectives 1. Acquire and seek permanent protection of public open space. 2. Make all of Walker Pond accessible to the public and expand open space in the vicinity of Walker Pond. 3. Discourage development, other than recreation, on publicly owned open space. 4. Develop pocket parks. 5. Explore locations for community gardens and outdoor classrooms. 6. Finalize the design and development of the former incinerator site to be part of Filippello Park. 6. Develop a landscaped traffic island adoption program by private businesses. 7. Pursue acquisition and/or public access to Sawin's and Williams Ponds. 8. Develop and maintain dog parks where practicable. Goal 3. Encouraize private land owners to permanently preserve open space on their parcels. Objectives 1. Increase amount of dedicated open space land for new and redeveloped properties. 2. Encourage and maintain plantings in parking areas and sidewalk planting strips. Goal 4. Create new opportunities for recreational access alonL, the Charles River. such as boatinL,, trail networks, bicvclin2. and appropriate related amenities. Objectives 3-6-15 DRAFT 110 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 1. Enhance pedestrian and bicycle access along the Charles River. 2. Support making Greenough Boulevard safer for active and passive recreation. 3. Increase water-based activities at the Charles River. 4. Improve safety for pedestrians wishing to access the river path in all areas, with special attention to the crossings at Watertown Square. 5. Make Watertown Yacht Club area more accessible to the public. Goals. Aaaressively seek new fundine sources for the enhancement and maintenance of the Town's open space and recreation resources. Objectives 1. Increase ability to acquire, preserve and rehabilitate open space and recreational facilities. Goal 6. Make Watertown friendlier to pedestrians and bicvclists and promote active and healthv lifestvles. Objectives 1. Develop multi-use path connections (i.e. Watertown Community Path and the Watertown-Cambridge Greenway). 2. Make sidewalks passable for pedestrians in winter. 3. Evaluate ways to improve difficult street crossings throughout Town. 4. Improve sidewalks throughout the Town. 5. Do not allow parking on sidewalks. 6. Promote fitness and encourage walking. Goal 7. Improve the urban forest. Objectives 1. Increase tree planting on public property. 2. Minimize harm to trees from road salt. 3. Minimize removal of large caliper trees. 4. Build sidewalks and curbs in a manner to facilitate tree plantings. 5. Encourage trees on private property. 6. Encourage native fauna. 7. Create shaded areas. 8. Ensure landscape plans for public space are appropriate to the setting. Goal 8. Improve outreach and education. Objectives 1. Improve Charles River path signage and other wayfinding signage throughout town. 3-6-15 DRAFT 111 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 2. Disseminate information about open space on the Town website. 3. Improve education for dog owners on proper waste disposal techniques. 4. Communicate with public regarding progress with Plan implementation. 5. Provide improved education and signage for bicyclists, pedestrians and motorists. Goal 9. Improve safetv in open space and recreational areas. Objectives 1. Make emergency services accessible to users of open space. 2. Make parks safe at night. 3. Improve safety along Greenough Boulevard between Arsenal and North Beacon Streets. 4. Reduce harmful effects of pesticide use. 3-6-15 DRAFT 112 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 SECTION 9- SEVEN- YEAR ACTION PLAN The purpose of this section is to establish an action plan addressing Watertown's open space and recreational needs within the context of the Town's stated goals and objectives. The Action Plan is arranged sequentially beginning with the first goal and the associated objectives to facilitate the achievement of this goal. The plan can be read as follows under "Actions": 1-14 references the first action that addresses the first objective of the first goal; 1-1-2 references the second action that addresses the first objective of the first goal and so on. The final column provides the timetable that the proposed action is to take place (see "Seven-Year Action Plan Map"). Short-term recommendations fall within the 2015-2016 timeframe; mid-term recommendations fall within the 2017-2019 timeframe; and long-term recommendations fall within the 2020-2022 timeframe. Some of the objectives in the seven-year action plan respond to the issue of acquiring and permanently protecting open space and establishing more recreational opportunities in Watertown. Some of the smaller actions can be accomplished through the Town's general fund, but many of the others will require additional assistance. There are many opportunities at the state and federal level for obtaining technical and funding assistance for parks and open space in urban locations such as Watertown. Watertown has considered several opportunities in order to access assistance for conservation, open space, and recreation purposes, and will continue to investigate sources as they become available: Local Acquisition for Natural Diversity (LAND) grant program - This program provides funds to municipal conservation commissions for the purchase of conservation land. Several sensitive parcels in the Town have been reviewed as potential candidates for this grant program. Parkland Acquisition and Renovation for Communities (PARC) grant program - The PARC program assists communities with the acquisition of parkland, as well as construction of new parks and renovation of existing parks. With the completion of the ADA survey conducted on the Town's major parks and recreation areas, the potential for applying this type of grant to the improvement and provision of handicap access is clear. Many of the parks in Town could be vastly improved for use by the whole population by providing these types of improvements. Community Preservation Act - The Community Preservation Act provides new funding sources which can be used to address three core community concerns: Acquisition and preservation of open space; Creation and support of affordable housing; and Acquisition and preservation of historic buildings and landscapes. The act establishes a significant state matching fund, which serves as an incentive to communities to pass the CPA. The CPA must be adopted by the Town by ballot to adopt the Act. This funding could potentially be used for open space acquisition in parts of the Town which need more recreation and open space resources. Watertown placed the CPA on the ballot as a 2% real estate tax levy in 2005 and it was defeated and has not been on the ballot since. National Park Service/ Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program - The program offers technical assistance only to nonprofit organizations, community groups, and local or state 3-6-15 DRAFT 113 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 government agencies. The program's technical staff offers assistance for recreation and conservation projects in building partnerships, assess resources, develop concept plans, engage public participation, identify potential sources of funding, create public outreach, organizational development, and provide conservation and recreation information. Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR)/ Recreational Trails grant program - The Recreational Trails Program provides funding support for a variety of trail protection, construction and stewardship projects throughout Massachusetts. This national program makes funds available to states to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses. Watertown has submitted grant applications for this program in the past and considers it a good match for implementing many portions of the Watertown Community Path. GOAL 1: IMPROVE THE AMOUNT, ACCESSIBILITY, AND CONDITION OF WATERTOWN'S RECREATIONAL RESOURCES Objective Actions Year/Department/Funding 1-1 Acquire open space,particularly 1-1-1 Identify potential locations for Ongoing/Recreation spaces that would enhance and small parks,tot lots,pocket parks, PARC leverage existing resources in under- etc. represented sections of the Town. 1-1-2 Seek permanent protection for public and private open space and Ongoing/Planning recreation parcels. 1-1-3 Identify funding and create a design to implement the Watertown Short-term/Planning Community Path. 1-1-4 Design and implement a connector through Arsenal Park Short-term/Planning between the Watertown-Cambridge Greenway and the Charles River Greenway 1-2 Continue to make 1-2-1 Develop a comprehensive Short-term/Recreation improvements to the parks and management plans for each major fields. town-owned facility. 1-2-2 Seek better coordination with Ongoing/Recreation outside groups to leverage park and field maintenance and stewardship. 1-2-3 Provide more trash barrels in Ongoing/DPW all open spaces and ensure frequent trash collection. 3-6-15 DRAFT 114 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Objective Actions Year/Department/Funding 1-2-4 Add and repair irrigation Ongoing/Recreation systems to the Town's playing fields. PARC,Town funding 1-2-5 Continue to upgrade the Town's open space and park Ongoing/Recreation,DPW facilities to meet new safety and Town funding disability standards. 1-2-6 Establish standards and follow Ongoing/DPW,Recreation maintenance plan for parks 1-2-7 Implement repairs and upgrades identified in the currently adopted CIP • improvements at Bemis, 2016/Recreation Lowell,O'Connell, CIP funding Arsenal,Moxley and Victory Track) 2017/Recreation • Casey lights and CIP funding scoreboard,Arsenal and Filippello spray park 2018/Recreation • Cunniff,Filippello lights CIP funding and scoreboard,Sullivan playgroundFilipello 2019/Recreation pavilions,Arsenal tot lot, CIP funding Saltonstall playground Victory Field House 2020/Recreation • Arsenal court,parking, CIP funding lights 1-2-8 repair or replace water Ongoing/Recreation fountains Town funding 1-2-9 Continue to inventory playground equipment on a regular Ongoing/Recreation basis 1-2-10 Establish Level of Service (LOS)standards for park and Ongoing/Recreation recreation programs and fields. 1-3 Increase recreational space at the 1-3-1 Consider closing a section of Ongoing/DCR Charles River Charles River Road on Sundays from April through November for the use of cyclists,pedestrians, or for other programmed events. 1-4 Provide more swimming options 1-4-1 Encourage DCR to fund a Ongoing/Recreation longer season and longer hours at the Dealtry Pool. 3-6-15 DRAFT 115 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 GOAL 2: PRESERVE, PROTECT, AND ENHANCE PUBLICLY OWNED CONSERVATION, PASSIVE, AND ACTIVE OPEN SPACE. Objective Actions Year/Department 2-1 Acquire and seek permanent 2-1-1 Establish a program to actively Ongoing/Planning, Recreation, protection of open space. pursue the acquisition of open space Conservation for preservation purposes 2-1-2 a)develop and formalize a policy to ensure that properties that Ongoing/Town Manager,Assessor's, the Town acquires through tax Planning,Conservation, Zoning default are considered for open space before resale or re-development. b) develop and advertise a conservation restriction easement program. 2-2 Make all of Walker Pond 2-2-1 Planning Department should Short-term/Planning Dept. accessible to the public and expand work with the landowner and lease open space in the vicinity of Walker holders to explore mechanisms to Pond. achieve this goal. 2-3 Discourage development,other 2-3-1 Formalize town policy through Ongoing/DPW than recreation,of publicly owned D.P.W.to allow the paving of open space. additional Town-owned open space only where there is a demonstrated circumstance that necessitates the paving of these areas(e.g., emergency/maintenance access). 2-3-2 Verify that all public open Short-term/Conservation areas are legally protected to the maximum extent possible. 2-4 Develop pocket parks. 2-4-1 Establish a"pocket park" Ongoing/Planning,Recreation program to encourage public/private open space in neighborhoods. 2-5 Explore locations for community 2-5-1 Consider incorporating Ongoing/Planning,Recreation gardens. community gardens into existing and new parks. 2-6 Finalize the design and 2-6-1 Develop to best serve needs of Ongoing/Planning,Conservation, development of the former the Town.If practical, coordinate Recreation.DPW incinerator site to be part of landscaping with owners of property Filippello Park. in the area. Give consideration to both active and passive recreation. 2-6 Improve appearance of traffic 2-6-1 Develop a landscaped traffic Ongoing/DPW islands and strips. island adoption program by private 3-6-15 DRAFT 116 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Objective Actions Year/Department businesses and civic organizations. 2-7 Pursue acquisition and/or 2-7-1 Enter into discussions with Mid-term/Planning,Town Council public access to Sawins and Williams private owner. Ponds. 2-8 Develop and maintain dog parks 2-8-1 Continue to maintain the dog Short-term and Ongoing/Parks, where practicable. park at Howe Park and ensure the Planning dog park at Bell Watertown remains open to the public. Further,locate a dog park in the eastern side of town. GOAL 3: ENCOURAGE PRIVATE LAND OWNERS TO PERMANENTLY PRESERVE OPEN SPACE ON THEIR PARCELS. Objective Actions Year/Department 3-1 Increase amount of dedicated 3-1-1 Consider options to require Short-term/Planning,Town Council open space land for new and open space to be set aside for new or redeveloped properties. redeveloped residential and commercial land especially along the Arsenal and Pleasant Street corridors Look for opportunities to establish new public open spaces to serve those developments and the Town. 3-2 Encourage and maintain 3-2-1 Monitor plant maintenance. Ongoing/Planning,DPW plantings in parking areas and sidewalk planting strips. GOAL 4: CREATE NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR RECREATIONAL ACCESS ALONG THE CHARLES RIVER, SUCH AS BOATING, TRAIL NETWORKS, BICYCLING, AND APPROPRIATE RELATED AMENITIES. Objective Actions Year/Department 4-1 Enhance pedestrian and bicycle 4-1-1 Work with DCR to finalize Short-term/Planning,Recreation access along the Charles River. and implement recommendations for the Charles River Basin Pedestrian and Bicycle Connectivity 3-6-15 DRAFT 117 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Objective Actions Year/Department Study. 4-1-2 Work with developers to create Ongoing/Planning or enhance multi-use connections between development projects (including the Arsenal Mall and athenahealth redevelopment projects)to increase physical and visual access to the Charles River. 4-2 Support making Greenough 4-2-1 Work to implement the Short-term/Planning Boulevard safer for active and passive Greenough Greenway project. Public-private funding recreation. 4-3 Increase water-based activities at 4-3-1 Increase canoe and kayak Ongoing/DCR the Charles River access and add amenities such as rental facilities and storage. 4-4 Improve safety for pedestrians 4-4-1 Work with DCR to finalize Short-term/Planning,Recreation wishing to access the river path in all and implement recommendations areas,with special attention to the for the Charles River Basin crossings at Watertown Square. Pedestrian and Bicycle Connectivity Study. 4-6 Make Watertown Yacht Club 4-6-1 Work with Watertown Yacht 2006 DCR area more accessible to the public. Club and DCR. GOAL 5: AGGRESSIVELY SEEK NEW FUNDING SOURCES FOR THE ENHANCEMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF THE TOWN'S OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION RESOURCES. Objective Actions Year/Department 5-1 Increase ability to acquire, 5-1-1 Consider adoption of the Short&mid-term/Town Council, preserve and rehabilitate open space Community Preservation Act. Planning,Recreation,Conservation and recreational facilities. 5-1-2 Pursue new funding sources Ongoing/Recreation such as public/private partnerships GOAL 6: MAKE WATERTOWN FRIENDLIER TO PEDESTRIANS AND BICYCLISTS AND PROMOTE ACTIVE AND HEALTHY 3-6-15 DRAFT 118 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 LIFESTYLES. Objective Actions Year/Department 6-1 Develop multi-use path 6-1-1 Complete the Community Long-term/Planning connections. Path and support other linear path/park development. 6-2 Make sidewalks passable for 6-2-1 Explore mechanisms to clean Ongoing/Town Council/DPW pedestrians in winter. sidewalks of snow. Town funding 6-3 Improve difficult street crossings 6-3-1 Engage Commission on Ongoing/COD,DPW throughout Town. Disabilities in this review. 6-4 Improve sidewalks throughout 6-4-1 Develop a protocol for Ongoing/DPW,COD, Planning the Town. prioritizing projects and a rationalized system of maintenance. 6-5 Do not allow parking on 6-5-1 Enforce existing parking Ongoing/Police sidewalks. regulations 6-6 Promote fitness and encourage 6-6-1 Consider development of a walking multi-use, multi-generational Long-term/Recreation community center, including a PARC,Town funding swimming pool,to provide a variety of activities throughout the year. 6-6-2 Look for ways to better integrate services and programming Ongoing/Recreation,COA,Schools with the Senior Center and the public schools and facilities, as well as ways to incorporate public health and physical fitness programs. 6-6-3 Continue developing safe walking paths that connect existing Ongoing/Recreation,DPW,COD open spaces and parks.New paths Town funding should be handicap-accessible and multi-use,serving walkers,runners, bicyclists and wheelchairs. 6-6-4 Install bicycle racks at all park Mid-term/Recreation facilities. Town funding 6-6-5 Consider canoe and kayak rentals as well as other river-focused Mid-term/Recreation activities to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities. 3-6-15 DRAFT 119 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 GOAL 7: IMPROVE THE URBAN FOREST Objective Actions Year/Department 7-1 Increase tree planting on public 7-1-1 Ensure net gain of trees - that Ongoing/Tree Warden property. those planted exceed those taken down. 7-1-2 Update a comprehensive tree Ongoing/Tree Warden study to be integrated into the Town's G.I.S.to be updated every five years. 7-1-3 Establish and advertise a Ongoing/Tree Warden program to encourage private funding of public forests and replanting. 7-1-4 Work with organizations such Ongoing/Tree Warden as Trees for Watertown to increase tree plantings on private property. 7-2 Minimize harm to trees from 7-2-1 Continue to use snow Ongoing/DPW road salt. clearance policies that minimize the use of road salt to the extent possible. 7-3 Minimize removal of large 7-3-1 Explore passing an ordinance Mid-term/Town Council caliper trees. that would require public hearings for tree removal over a certain size on private property. 7-4 Build sidewalks and curbs in a 7-4-1 Evaluate DPW practices and Ongoing/Tree Warden, DPW manner to facilitate tree plantings. their effect on urban trees. 7-4-2 Develop consistent town 2007 Ongoing/Tree Warden,DPW policy to encourage tree health. 7-5 Encourage trees on private 7-5-1 Develop public education Ongoing/Tree Warden property. program about value of trees 7-6 Encourage native fauna. 7-6-1 Consider wildlife value in Ongoing/Conservation town plantings and choose plants accordingly 7-7 Create shaded areas. 7-7-1 Plant more shade trees in Ongoing/Recreation,DPW parks. 7-8 Ensure landscape plans for 7-8-1 Tree Warden to review and Ongoing/Tree Warden public space are appropriate to the approve all landscape plans for all 3-6-15 DRAFT 120 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Objective Actions Year/Department setting. public projects. GOAL 8: IMPROVE OUTREACH AND EDUCATION Objective Actions Year/Department 8-1 Improve Charles River path and 8-1-1 Ask DCR for additional 2007 Planning Town park signage and other signage along the Charles River, wayfinding signage throughout town. regarding directional signs, interpretive nature information, distances,park policies and expectations of park users. 8-1-2 Ask DCR to add mile markers along the Charles River path. 2007 Planning 8-2 Disseminate information about 8-2-1 Update website with more Ongoing/Recreation,Conservation open space and recreation programs information about Watertown's on the Town website. open space and recreational resources. 8-2-2 Prepare improved open space Short-term/Recreation and recreation maps with addresses. Provide bike path and bike lane maps. 8-4 Improve education for dog 8-4-1 Provide signage or an easily Ongoing/Health,Town Clerk owners on proper waste disposal understood and readily available (licensing) techniques. handout. 8-4 Communicate with public 8-4-1 Prepare an annual report on Annual/Planning,Recreation, regarding progress with Plan progress toward the goals and Conservation implementation. objectives of this plan and include it in the town's Annual Report. 8-5 Provide improved education and 8-5-1 Bike Committee to encourage Ongoing/Bike&Ped, DPW signage for bicyclists,pedestrians and DCR to post signage on bike path. motorists. 8-6-2 DPW to post"No Biking on Sidewalks" in congested areas 8-6-3 Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee to ask bike shops to 3-6-15 DRAFT 121 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Objective Actions Year/Department distribute "Rules of the Road"with bikes sold. GOAL 9: IMPROVE SAFETY IN OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION AREAS Objective Actions Year/Department 9-1 Make emergency services 9-1-1 Request DCR to install Short-term/Planning accessible to users of open space. emergency call boxes. 9-2 Make parks safe at night. 9-2-1 Post signs that note parks are Short-term/DPW closed at dusk except in parks that have night time lighting. 9-3 Make safe Greenough Boulevard 9-3-1 Aggressive police monitoring of Ongoing/Police between Arsenal and North Beacon open space Streets. 9.4 Reduce harmful effects of 9-4-1- Minimize pesticide Ongoing/DPW pesticide use applications in all open space areas. 3-6-15 DRAFT 122 MALWAbr(•wri•L�11LS'+.OaG6WrgwtWfM1015 ac>.n prmd t /f 1 (' ,, , c BELMpNT � St.Patrick's Cemelery `7 - WALT14AM _ {5 3' -CAMB€EI©GE '- / ~ 5 I ark Ridgelawn Cemetery ' Lowell Elementary ~' CunniH Elementary tl Oakley CovnSry Cluh 3.' Victory Field g y -'-Partner CoolEdga Scha ~ whim Hill g _ w I Browne House M�tertow Middle School Sullivan Park 8 W F "0M%Auhum Cemllcry t GoraW Old Burial Grou d Motley Park S Former East Branch Lihra ry~��_� - �, Sondllanks Cemetery ALTA at the Estate Open Space- S59 Main St Park Linear Park - V41ker fond watorto High School �r _ i PL E-0. Communhy path(Aftre j, r•r a Bemis Parh - —r Salto^e Park, Sch oot AM ISanior.Canto r I a:""• 1 AAHovre Park - Hosmsr Elemanta ry Town Slicer y Charles Ri er Greenway - -:l •. •• rya* J I�� f _ -1&l..bv.Della_- -'--. watsne++H "u• `A Can longs Memorial Park / "° --------- — .� -� -. - •��.. MONO"" ' er Pomler GSA Site , !! Irving Park - f Casoy park F The Arsenal on the Charles I ,q y 1 g t I i Charles re tlr r A L -Perkin liar the 61i=d �Araensi Park R3vir Grcanwax—, .a C omman der.Mansion — BOSTON r Sguihrml:kct Park n y—.. Action Plan Mapaaa` Legend Source:M—C[5 Mach Ro 1 e Open Space by Property Type Wa to rtownlCa rn b rW ge Greenway Bicycle Facilities Major Routes,by Ad rninistrative Type Open Spate and Rerleallan Atan ll pdale Cemetery Conservation Prnr--1 BAe Lane lntenatate Watertown.MA -Park Municipal Building Gorr„'c'c• Proposed 0&0 Lane V.S.Rlor" -bnl r Scholl Imprwea Path —Slate Rage _Private ----Proposed Path omff.proved Path Figure 15—Seven-year Action Plan SECTION 10 - PUBLIC COMMENTS LETTER FROM MICHAEL DRISCOLL, WATERTOWN TOWN MANAGER LETTER FROM JOHN HAWES, CHAIR, WATERTOWN PLANNING BOARD Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 SECTION I I REFERENCES (This will be updated) Maud deLeigh Hodges, Crossroads on the Charles. Watertown, MA, 1980. Metropolitan District Commission, Parks Engineering and Construction Division, Riverwalk Charles River Reservation. Plans prepared by Carol R. Johnson and Associates, Cambridge, MA,November 1995. Metropolitan District Commission, Dan Driscoll (interview), Boston, MA, November 1995. National Recreation and Parks Association, National Park Recreation and Open Space Standards. Alexandria, VA, 1983. Diane Lauber, Commonwealth of Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife,Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (letter), Westborough, MA,November 1995. Thomas Planning Services. Watertown Maximum Build-Out Potential. May 1987. Town of Brookline Conservation Commission, Open Space In Brookline. Brookline, MA, 1994. United States Dept. Of Agriculture, Middlesex Countv Soil Survev Report. March 1991. Waltham Planning Department, Open Space and Recreation Plan. Waltham, MA, 1994. Watertown Department of Community Development and Planning, Open Space and Recreation Plan prepared by The Henderson Group, Boston, MA June 1987. Watertown Department of Public Works, The Recreational Space Conditions and Policv Report,prepared by Applied Planning Technologies (A.P.T.), Cambridge, MA, 1995. 3-6-15 DRAFT 125 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 APPENDIX A SECTION 504 REPORT (ADA) 3-6-15 DRAFT 126 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 SECTION 504 REPORT (ADA) Part I Administrative Reauirements 1. Designation of the 504 Coordinator Please see Exhibit A, letter from the Town Manager designating the Personnel Director as the town of Watertown's 504 Coordinator 2. Grievance Procedures Please see Exhibit B, Town of Watertown' Grievance Procedure for Handicap Compliance 3. Public Notification Requirements Please see Exhibit C, Town of Watertown'Affirmative Action Program 4. Participation of Individuals with Disabilities or Organizations Representing the Disabled Community Please see Exhibit D and E, Town Council resolution creating the Commission on Disabilities, and press release by the Town Manager appointing the Commission members and describing the duties and responsibilities thereof. Part II Program Accessibilitv 1. Transition Plan Please see Section 5-Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest, which identifies accessibility status, physical obstacles, and necessary changes for each facility; For more detailed information, please see the study completed for the Town, Watertown Oben Sbace and Recreational Areas: Review for centered design characteristics. by the firm Adaptive Environments. Also please see Section 9-Five Year Action Plan, which provides a schedule for the changes. 1. Facility Inventory Please see Section 5-Inventory of Lands of Conservation and Recreation Interest, which identifies accessibility status for each facility. 3-6-15 DRAFT 127 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Exhibit A TOWN OF WATERTOWN 1630 Office of the Town Manager r.+ Administration Building 149 Main Street Watertown,MA 02477 Phone;617.972.6465 Fax:617-972-6404 www.wate rtown-nia.gov Michael J.Driscoll townmgr@watertown-ma.gov Town Maaagcr March 19,2008 Melissa Gran,Grants Manager Executive Office of Environmental Affairs Division of Conservation Services 100 Cambridge Street,Suite 900 Boston,MA 02114-2524 Dear Ms.Cyan: I am writing to inform you that the'Town of Watertown's ADA/Section 504 Coordinator is Ms.Gayle Shattuck,Personnel Director, If you have any questions,please do not hesitate to call Ms.Shattuck at 617-972-6443. Sincere ael J.Driscoll Town Manager Gc: G.Shattuck,Personnel Director G.Watson,Director of Community Development&Planning 3-6-15 DRAFT 128 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Exhibit B 5. Discipline and Discharge Grievances No employee covered by this Agreement shall be disciplined or discharged except for just cause. Before any action affecting the employment or compensation of any employee referred to in the preceding sentence is taken,the employee shall be given a written statement of the specific reason(s)for the contemplated action. No disciplinary pen aIty(including discharge) in excess of five (5) days shall be imposed until after a hearing before the Town Manager or Personnel Director. The Union has the right to go directly to arbitration for disciplinary cases (including discharge)over five(5)days. 6. Arbitration A grievance which was not resolved at Step 3 under the Grievance Procedure may be submitted by the Union to arbitration. The arbitration may be initiated by filing with the Town and the American Arbitration Association a request for arbitration. The notice shall be filed within thirty (30)work days after denial of the grievance at Step 3 under the Grievance Procedure. The Voluntary Labor Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association shall apply to the proceeding. ARTICLE TIT NON-DISCRJMINATION Section A. The UNION agrees that as the sole and exclusive bargaining agent for all employees in the units described above,and as recognized by the EMPLOYER,it will continue to act,negotiate and bargain collectively for 0 employees in the units, and shall be responsible for representing the interest of all such employees without discrimination,and without regard to Union membership or- participation in Union activities. The UNION further agrees to continue its policy of recognizing that membership in the UNION is voluntary and is open to all employees in the Units without discrimination and without regard to race,color,creed,national origin age,sex,or marital status. 3-6-15 DRAFT 129 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Section B. In its employment practices the EMPLOYER agrees to continue its policy of dealing with all persons without discrimination and without regard to race,color,creed,national origin,sex,age or marital status,and without regard to Union membership,participation in union activities or to the assertion by any employee of any rights under this Agreement. ARTICLE IV SALARIES Section A. Wages Effective July 1, 1994,the salary for all employees covered by this Agreement shall be in accordance with the classification plan and schedule set out in Appendix "A" and Appendix "B" which are attached hereto and incorporated into this Agreement. Such salaries have been increased by 2% effective July 1, I994,as reflected in the Salary Grid'fables,Appendix "A". The remainder of the wage increases are as follows: Effective July 1, 1995 2.0% Effective July 1, 1996 1-017b Effective January 1, 1997 1.0% (see Appendix"A"for Salary Grid Tables) The Town may hire new employees above Step 1 in the THA salary grid,but must hire within the grade and step to which the job titles are allocated, and the Town must notify the Union in writing of such hiring. The Town may establish new titles and jab descriptions,but must bargain over the proposed salary after notice to the Union,and the Town may not implement the new title until negotiating requirements are satisfied in accordance with the law, 3-6-15 DRAFT 130 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Part III: Employment Practices Please see Exhibit C.,lnwn of Watertown Af5rmatiye Actiaq Proerrm,which states the Town's recognition amd affirms its legal and moral obligation to provide equal emplyment opportunity and equal access to all fundamental benefits of employment. Also,please see Exhibit F. Which is excerpted from the current union contract and is the Non-Discimination clause,and Exhibit G.Which is a sample format job announcement which includes a nondiscrimination statement. 3-6-15 DRAFT 131 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Continued Grievance Procedure For Handicap Compliance VI. If the complaintant is not satisfied with the Grievance Committee actions,within ten working clays they may file a formal complaint with the Town Manager. VId. Within 10 working days of formal notice of the complaint,the Town Manager will meet to review the complaint. The complaintant must be notified of such meeting and may be present with counsel if they so choose. VIII. Within 10 working days from the day of review,the Town Manager will either(i)resolve the complaint through reasonable accommodation,(ii)dismiss the complaint as not relevant to the handicapped regulations,or,(iii)adopt plans for needed structural changes to reach compliance. The Complaintant,the Grievance Committee,and the Section 504 coordinator must be notified,either in writing or by other appropriate formal notification. IX. The decision of the Town Manager shall be final. 3-6-15 DRAFT 132 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Exhibit C TOWN OF WATERTOWN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION PROGRAM MARCH 6, 1989 3-6-15 DRAFT 133 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 TOWN OF WATERTOWN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION PROGRAM TABLE OF CONTENTS PREAMBLE . .. . . .. . . . .. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i STATEMENT OF POLICY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . . 1 FIESPONSIBILITY FOR IMPLEMENTATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL DISSEMINATION . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 EXECUTION OF AFFIRMATIVE ACTION PROGRAM . . . . . . . . 4 RECRUITMENT . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I . . . . 1 5 SELECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SCREENING. . . 6 PROMOTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 LAYOFFS . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 PROMOTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 DISCIPLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 GOALS AND TIMETABLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 EMPLOYEE UNIONS 7 DEFINITIONS 8 3-6-15 DRAFT 134 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 PREAMBLE The Town of Watertown hereby recognizes and affirms its legal obligation to provide equal employment Opportunity. The Town as a public entity reaffirms its moral obligation to provide all persons equal access to all fundamental benefits of employment. It is the policy of the Town of Watertown to hire well qualified people to perform the many tasks necessary to.provide quality service to the residents of Watertown at a reasonable cost. Any employee or personnel practice which inadvertenfly discriminates against some of our employees or applicants for employment ultimately injures the entire Town of Watertown. The Town's personnel policies and practices have been designed to provide equal opportunity for all persons. All employment decisions, policies and programs have been made and will continue to he made and implemented without regard to an individual's race, color, religion, sex, national Origin or age. The Town's Affirmative Action Program is designed to further its commitment to insure that applicants are employed and that employees are treated without regard to their race,color,religion,sex, age or national origin. This program encompasses all aspects of the employment process. The Town will provide equal employment opportunity for all'persons and will recruit and administer hiring,working conditions, benefits and privileges of employment, compensation, training, appointments for advancement including upgrading and promotion,transfer and terminations of advancement including upgrading and promotion, transfers and terminations of employment including layoffs in a non- discriminatory fashion. The Town will attempt to remedy our employment pattern and vigorously recruit minorities and females. The Town will attempt to contact minorities whose names appear on our civil service lists and actively recruit them for appointment, A major goal of the Affirmative Action Program is to insure that the Town utiliza to the fullest extent possible the valuable resources of its female and minority employees at all levels of municipal government. STATEMENT OF POLICY The Town of Watertown will adhere to the provisions of all federal and state laws governing equal opportunity in employment,affirmative action,and non-discrimination in municipal services. Such laws presently include,but are not limited to,Massachusetts Qenarai Laws, Chapter 151B;Titles VI and Vil of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended,Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 as amended, Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1957 and Federal Executive Order [1246, as amended, In implementing this policy, the Town intends to comply fully with the letter and the spirit of the law. The Town will,without regard to circumstances of race,color, religion, sex national origin or age: 1. Hire persons who are qualified to perform the defined duties and responsibilities of the position to be filled, 1 3-6-15 DRAFT 135 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 2. Provide all employees with the privileges and benefits associated with employment. 3. Promote and transfar employees on a non-discriminatory basis. 4. provide all qualified employees with an equal opportunity to participate in applicable training and development programs. S. Compensate all employees on the principle of equal pay for equal work. 6. Establish and/or maintain all employee facilities on a non-discriminatory basis. . The Town will not limit,segregate,or classify its employees In any way which would deprive or land to deprive any individual of opportunities,or adversely affect his or her status as an employee because of such employees race, color, religion,sex, national origin or age. The Town will not discharge any employee because of his/her race, color, religion, sex, national origin or age. The Town will continue to administer all personnel activities such as compensation, benefits, transfers, tuition assistance, social and recreational programs, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, or age. Affirmative action requires more than vigilance In the elimination of discriminatory barriers on the grounds of race, color,handicap,creed,national origin, national ancestry, age and sex. It must also entail positive and aggressive measures to ensure equal opportunity in internal personnel practices and in those programs which can affect persons outside of town government. This affirmative action shall include efforts necessary to remendy the effects of present and past discriminatory patterns and any action necessary to guarantee equal opportunity for all people. RESPONSIBILITY FOR IMPLEMENTATION The Assistant to the Town ManagerlPersonnel Director shall be responsible for overseeing the execution of the Affirmative Action Program. S/he shall also act as the Town's Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Officer. The Personnel Office is located in the first floor of Town hall. Responsibilities shall include but not be limited to the following: i. Development and refinement of the Affirmative Action Plan. Dissemination of the policy on equal employment opportunities, both internally and externally. 2. Identification of problem areas and goals established to eliminate trouble spats, 3. Audit of hiring and promotion patterns to insure that goals and objectives are met. 4. Periodic discussions with department heads to insure that policies are understood and are being followed. 5. Periodic review of qualifications of all females and minorities to make certain that female and minority employees are given fait opportunities for transfers and promotions. 2 3-6-15 DRAFT Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Exhibit D Council7CIIIBITJown 6a y. TOWN OF•WATFRTOWN j ADMINI5TR.�TION BUILDING . WATERTOW;I- NIA.{},'I I?: •.- -q•; r❑,I �, ,✓�,. (617)972-6470 • FAX 16U) 91 -6403 L� ORDINANCE #94--05 0-94-05 AN ORDINANCE CREATING THE WATERTOWN COMMISSION ON DISABILITY WHEREAS, the provisions of section BJ of Chapter 40 of the Massachusetts General Laws allow for the creation of a town Commission an Disability, "to cause the full integration and participation of people with disabilities"; and WHEREAS, said section 8J lays out the responsibilities for said Commission, including, but not limited to, research into the local problems affecting persons with disabilities and advice and assistance to municipal officials and employees in ensuring compliance with state and federal laws, rules, and regulations affecting people with disabilities; and WHEREAS, the City known as the Town of Watertown has been extremely well-served by the Watertown Committee on Disabilities, which has done yeoman service for the entire community of Watertown but has not adopted the provisions of said Section 8J; and WHEREAS, the adoption of the provisions of said Section 81 would allow for the expansion and extension of the work of said committee, and would enhance the stature of said committee; and WHEREAS, said adoption would further serve as an additional endorsement by the Town Council of the City known as the Town of Watertown of the goals of said committee and as a statement of commitment by said• Council towards the full integration of persons with disabilities into all aspects of the life of the Town. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, that the City known as the Town of Watertown does hereby accept the provisions of Section 8J of Chapter 40 of the General Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and form a commission an Disability subject to said provisions. - 3-6-15 DRAFT 137 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 ❑-94-05 BEDLT FURTHER ORDAINED, that the Town Manager shall appoint the members of said Commission as quickly as may be practicable. Council Member I hereby certify that at a regular meeting of• the Town Council for which a quorum was present, the above Ordinance was adopted by a vote of 9 for and 0 against on January 25, 1994. councillerk Council F ;eszdent 3-6-15 DRAFT 138 Watertown Open Space Plan 2015 - 2022 Exhibit E PRESS RELEASE Town Manager Michael J. Driscoll is pleased to announce the appointment of the nine members to the Watertown Commission on Disability. The nine members are as follows: Brian Charlson, 57 Grandview Avenue; Harold Craig, 33 Kimball Road; Francis X. Galligan, 14 Grandview Avenue; Albert Gayzagian, 74 Lincoln Street; John Edward Gillis, 465 Arsenal Street #706; Alex Liazos, 11 Parker street; Laura Dftedahl, 104 Coolidge Hill Road #7; Diane Shepard, 12 Swetts Court; Councillor Marilyn Petitto Devaney, 98 Westminster Avenue. The Watertown Town Council, by unanimous vote had accepted provisions of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 40, Section 8J, to form a "Watertown commission an Disability." The new Commission an Disability will, 1. Research local concerns experienced by people with disabilities and their families; 2. Advise/assist municipal officials and employees in ensuring compliance with state and federal laws affecting people with disabilities; 3. coordinate/ carry out programs designed to meet the needs of people with disabilities and their families; 4. Assist with the development of policies, procedures, and services affecting people with disabilities and their families; 5. Provide information, referrals, guidance, and technical assistance in all matters pertaining to disability; 6. Help coordinate activities of other local groups organized from similar purposes. 3-6-15 DRAFT