LONG RANGE PLANelibrary.pacounties.org/Documents/Cambria_County...Leonard LaPorta John Kupchella Paul Melanson WRIA COUNTY PLANNING CC%YIMISSION T. Frederick Young, Executive Director

PREPARED FOR STONYCREEK TOWNSHIP CAMBRIA COUNTY, PEJWSYLVANIA

LONG RANGE PLAN

PREPARED BY CAMBRIA COUhTY PLANNING CCMMISSION COURT HCUSE EBENSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA 15931

June, 1969

The preparation of t h i s report and the maps contained herein was financed in part through an Urban Planning Grant fran the Depart- ment of Housing and Urban Developnent, under the provisions of Section 701 of the Housing Act of 1954, as amended, administered by the Bureau of Planning, Pennsylvania Department of Camnunity Affairs.

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

€F C A M B R I A COUNTY P L A N N I N G COMMISSION T. FRED YOUNG EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR June, 1969

COURT nousfi FIEMSBURO, P E Y Y A . i s v a i PHONE 4 7 2 - 7 0 1 8

M r . Edward Strayer, Chairman Stonycreek Township Planning C m i s s i o n Cambria County, Pennsylvania

Dear M r . Strayer:

We are pleased t o submit herewith the LONG RANGE D E V E 1 L ” T PLAN fo r Stonycreek Township. This report re f lec ts an analysis presented i n the Existing Conditions Report and contains recommendations f o r a Long Range Plan t o guide future development in the years ahead.

and organizations within the comunity . given t o those persons and the members of the Stonycreek Planning Commission for the i r contributions.

The preparation of t h i s report required the help of many people Special acknowledgement is hereby

This report emphasizes the need for continuing review of the recammendations contained herein and t o re f lec t changing needs and c o m n i t y at t i tudes i n the years ahead. the cit izens and the i r elected of f ic ia l s t o achieve an outstanding community.

We sincerely hope that th i s report w i l l help

Respectfully submitted,

T . Frederick Young Executive Director

TOWNSHIP COMMISSIONERS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COJMISSION

W i l l i a m M. Knipple, President Merrit N. Rininger, Vice President Warren D. Lehman Charles C . Cooper W i l l i a m C. Bowser Frank H. Ashbridge

Edward Strayer, Chairman E. Paul Brubaker, Secretary

Rdnald D. Hayes

CAMBRIA COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION MEMBERS

James J. Long, Jr., Chairman Gilbert Salsgiver, Treasurer Thomas N. Crowley, Secretary Russell Thanas Fred J. McFadden, Jr. Elvin Overdorff, Jr. Leonard LaPorta John Kupchella Paul Melanson

W R I A COUNTY PLANNING CC%YIMISSION

T. Frederick Young, Executive Director John R. Swanson, Senior Planner Barry G. Polster, Junior Planner Thanas Elias, Junior Planner Bradford G . Beigay , Planning Technician David L. Belz , Draftsman Barbara Davis, Secretary Gail Novotny, Stenographer Gloria Kilraine, Stenographer Elaine Anderson, Stenographer

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

TITLE PAGE LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL PART I C I PAT ING OFT IC wli.S TABLE OF CONTENTS LIST OF MAPS LIST OF CHARTS LIST OF TABLES LIST OF IUUSTRATHONS REGIONAL LOCATION MAP

Page

FUTUKk LAND USE

Introduction Goals and Objectives Planning Districts - Land Use Proposals Summary of Future Land Use Proposals

FUTURE COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES

Introduction Schools Recreation Public Water Sanitary Sewers Police 'kotectim Fire Protection

FlTTuRE THOROUGHFARES

Int r oduct i un Maj o r Highway Recmnendatlsns N e w Roads Intersection Impr~vments

Capital Improvemenr: Program

APPENDIX

1 1 2 5 ~

LIST OF MAPS

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MAP NUMBER TITLE PAGE

Regional Location Map Future Land Use Future Cmuni ty Fac i l i t i es Future Water System Future Sewer System Regional Highway Network I; umre Thoroughfares

iii 7

22 23 24 31 32

LIST OF CHARTS

TITLE PAGE

Future Population - Future Dwelling Units Land Use By Planning District

LIST OF TABLES

8 1 0

Future Land Use Recreation Area Standards Length and Paving of Streets By Planning District Long Range Capital Improvement Br-ogram Six Year Capital Budget Pro j ected Municipal. Income

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

9 1 4 30 34 42 43

TITLE PAGE

Proposed Oakland Playground Proposed Riverside Playground

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20 2 1

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STONYCREEK TOWNSHIP

FUTURE LAND USE

The Land Use Plan is a guide for the future development in the Town- Such a plan proposes the location and types of land use ship of Stonycreek.

such as residential , c m e r c i a l , industrial, recreational, and public and semi-public.

Although the specific location of recommended uses cannot always be assigned t o individual parcels throughout the community, the Land Use Rec- ommendations do indicate types of land use and The approximate location where they should be situated. While such recommendations are general, they do include a l l types of land use act ivi ty necessary t o a c m n i t y .

The Existing Conditions Report provided a specific analysis of land use in Stonycreek Township. the analysis 'of existing conditions which must be considered in the formulation of Future Land Use Recmendations for Stonycreek Township:

The following basic factors were revealed during

A. Large areas of the Township are undeveloped as evidenced by the fact that only 23% of the t o t a l land area is actively uti l ized.

B. Because of the excessive slope areas in Solomon Run, Belmont, and Riverside, development is primarily centered i n the Oakland Planning District,

The predominant use of land i n developed areas is for residential purposes.

"pockets" or "cluster" development.

C .

8 D. Physical features have effectively created the existing

Frm these basic factors a series of goals have been developed to be achieved through the implementation of a Cmprehensive Land Use Plan,

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

1. The comrmrnity should develop primarily as a residential area.

Recent trends in population reveal a desire on the part of the residents in the older sections of the Johnstown vicinity, and new families who have cme into th i s area, t o s e t t l e i n outlying communities such as Stonycreek. forecasts for Stonycreek indicate in-migration by families in the middle age

Population

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groups who are a t or near maximum earning levels, ment w i l l create excellent residential neighborhods of middle t o high incane housing units. Since the majority of remaining developable land is ideal for such use, every means should be explored t o maintain an environment which w i l l nurture sound development of t h i s type.

The attraction of th i s ele-

2. Natural features must be adequately protected and preserved on a continuing basis.

Stonycreek Township is rich i n natural scenic beauty with many acres >

of unspoiled open space. These assets should be protected from the usual scars of civil ization as a means of preserving a natural asset of inf ini te value. Also, protection of open space w i l l provide an incentive for high caliber res i - dential development in areas which can be so ut i l ized without the sacrifice of natural beauty and resources.

3. Supplemental development must be provided in support of res i - dential land use.

The basic residential complex which has already developed i n Stonycreek Township, and the proposed extensions of th i s land use type, must be supported by related uses. Public f ac i l i t i e s , commercial outlets and sources of employ- ment should be provided whenever possible a t the local level. While it is true that most of these supporting elementsacan be found in adjacent communities, it must be realized that the factor of convenience is requisite t o the attraction of worthwhile residential development. Sound residential neighborhoods w i l l not materialize in the absence of the amenities necessary t o their function.

4. Local f i s ca l considerations must be related t o land use develoment.

The primary source of local municipal revenue is derived from property taxes which are based upon assessment levels. This revenue is v i t a l t o the c m u n i t y t o provide funds for s t ree t maintenance, c m u n i t y f a c i l i t i e s and other municipal services which are both necessary to, and expected by, the local residents. uses w i l l not ordinarily support local governmental revenue needs. planning is not aimed solely toward the attraction of profitable land uses, c m n i t i e s cannot ignore the relationship between revenues produced by various land use types and the municipal f a c i l i t i e s required t o sustain these act ivi t ies . For t h i s reason land areas which have a potential for development other than the residential purposes should be considered. A variety of land use types can, in many instances, be blended into the overall development concepts for the cm- munity, resulting in harmonious land use patterns and a beneficial tax balance.

A tax base geared predaninately t o single family residential Although

PLANNING DISTRICTS - LAND USE PROPOSALS

There are no universal standards for determining amounts of land needed in the future for each class of use or activity located within the planning area. Estimates can be made, however, of the future "space requirements'' f o r each class of use in a community, and these estimates can be employed in the prep-

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aration of the land development plan. area i n the Township. frequently based on current space use and legal requirements in zoninp, subdivision, and housing codes. off-s t reet loading, and landscaping are added, plus a sizeable safety factor . Space standards are based on a unit of measurement, such as person, household, a worker, For this reason, population forecasts and economic trend projections are fundamental i n determining future space requirements.

units and when properly analyzed,indicates the future space requirements. I i l lus t ra tes the population and housing forecasts into meaningful space requirements f o r Stonycreek Township.

The space requirements refers t o the land

Allowances for auxiliary space needs for off-s t reet parking,

The measures used t o estimate space requirements are

or a shopper, among others.

Chart I i l lus t ra tes the future growth potential of population and dwelling Table

Following is an analysis of proposed land uses presented on the basis of The suggested changes in land individual planning d i s t r i c t s as shown on Map #1.

use composition are cmpared graphically with existing uses on Chart 11, Land Use by Planning Distr ic t .

PLANNING QIsTRICT 1 - SOLOMON RUN

The Solomon Run Distr ic t is the most undeveloped portion of the c m u n i t y as a resul t of i ts location and topographic features. area is deterrant t o the construction of new homes and adds to the diff icul ty of providing an adequate sewerage collection and water system. However, if the sewer l ine i s extended adjacent t o the Old. Solomon Run Road, th i s area would be a potential residential. growth area.

The extreme slope in the

The Land Use Program recommends the retention of the basic residential functions, plus an increase t o 152.5 acres for residential use, avd additional public and semi-public uses. Most of the residential areas are single-family a t the present time and w i l l remain as such with the exception of a 1 2 . 1 acre s i t e for multi-family, low density, adjacent t o the Solanon Run Extension. growth in the d i s t r i c t w i l l involve the developnent of the area North of the Solomon Run Extension with access a t the Wydman Street Ramp.

but it is of v i t a l concern t o the Township that they do develop with proper guidance. graphic features and the pol i t ical boundary of Johnstown, it is an integral part of Stonycreek Township. area into a l i ab i l i t y while other portions of the cormunity expand.

The Land IJse Plan, Map #1 i l lus t ra tes the proDosals.

The remainder of residential

Development patterns. have not been established i n Planning District 1

While vir tual ly isolated from the balance of the cammunity by topo-

Haphazard growth must not be permitted t o turn this

PLANNING DISTRICT 2 - QAKLAND

Land Use in the Oakland Planning District is primarily limited t o residential and c m e r c i a l use and the s i t e of the Oakland Elementary School for

I the Johnstown Public School System. The Oakland Residential veloped in recent years atid is characterized by newer hmes.

3

area has been de- Additional bui Id ing

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11 I I I I I

lo t s are s t i l l available i n th.is neigh-borhood which w i l l be limited t o residential growth and it is recommended tha t current development patterns continue.

A s previously discussed, there is a growinp emphasis on multi-family housing in suburban communities. in the Wertz H i l l Area and i n the northeastern section of the Oakland 4rea adjacent t o RichIan6 Par%. Chart 11, Land Use Comnosition specifies future multi- family use of 272.0 acres. Anarfments, town houses, or c o m n i t y unit develop- ments, which contain a variety of housing types under specific density controls, could blend into th i s vicinity without degrading the residential quality of ex- i s t ing units.

This type of land use sh'ould be established

The commercial area of Oakland is proposed to be located on a 40.0 acre s t r i p along Bedford Street. comercial development. of the easy access t o Bedford Street ,

This is a 30 .acre increase over tEe existing Growth trends should be limited t o th i s area because

Public and semi-publie land should be develoned around t b e existing elementary school, the municipal building and the Richland Park. Continued cooper- ation between the Stonycreek Township Commissioners and the Hiphland Recreation Commission w i l l ensure th i s development for the ent i re community.

PLANNING DISIXICT 3 - BELIIONT

Development i n the Belmont Distr ic t is primarily limited t o single family residential . features and w i l l continue t o do so. Several t rac ts of land on the lower slopes of the mountain could be developed as ideal residential areas i f moper planning is undertaken to assure the best ut i l izat ion of sites involved. Fxcessive grades and irregular terrain make it imperative that detailed study be piven t o street grades, alignment and intersections, u t i l i t y service t o individual lo t s and preservation of natural landscape features. A proposed expansion of 2 1 . 1 acres in the Highland neighborhood w i l l increase the multi-family, low density area to 26.1 acres. Hones is also proposed from the existinp 6 . 4 acres to 30.9 acres.

The pattern of develoment has followed the topographic

An expansion of multi-family use in the vicini ty of the Belmont

As indicated on the Future Land Use Map, a t o t a l of 57.6 acres is pro- An elementary school is proposed i n the posed for public and semi-public use.

Future Community Facilities Plan t o be located on a 25 acre s i t e i n the vicini ty of Sann Street. School Board in the preparation of the i r long-range development plan. public and semi-public use w i l l be centered around the Eighland Park Area.

The proposed s i t e is presently under consideration by the J o h n s t m The remaining

PLANNING DISTRICI' 4 - RIVERSIDE

A natural buffer zone of elevated open-space separates the primary industr ia l area from the residential area. acres for future development; however, no major expansion growth. is anticipated due t o the fragmentary nature of the land available for future development.

North of the ridge lies 25.6 fragmented

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South of the ridge 128.4 acres are proposed for industrial expansion. pansion of industry w i l l provide a local source of emDloyment and increased assessment levels t o bolster the local tax base. ab i l i ty t o Route 219, and. the improvement and extension of Eisenhower Boulevard through the area w i l l improve the accessability t o the regional highway network.

W Y OF FUTVRE LAND USE PROPOSALS

The ex-

This area has close access-

The planning proposals for future land use i n Stonycreek Townshin represents the continuation and expansion of basic land use types which have developed in previous years. in these proposals are i n the central portion of the c m n i t y , namely Oakland and Belmont. Proposals are based on a more logical and econamical use of land than has been achieved previously. uses in relation t o the functions or services intended, replace present piece meal growth and resul t in a more orderly approach to conununity development which w i l l benefit the land Owner and the community i n general.

The major areas of growth act ivi ty contemplated

Proposals suggest the re-grouninE of land This procedure would

The amounts of developable land and the local and regional highway relationships involved i n th i s vicini ty w i l l s e t the stage for future growth. Recmendations for future land use are in response to the housinp, and busi- ness requirements of a growing c m u n i t y and reflect the goals and ohjectives of the Future Land Use Plan.

The Solcnnon Run and Riverside Districts of Stonycreek Tomship can be expected t o develop along residential l ines i n modest proportions. the Riverside District is oriented more toward l igh t industrial than residen- t i a l development,

However,

The majority of c m e r c i a l development which has occurred within the Township has been of a regional nature and has been confined t o both sides of Bedford Street . Approximately 13% or 1 0 acres of the Oakland Planning Distr ic t is devoted t o th i s l ineal commercial development. for the largest proportion of land use €or ccmunercial pu-?poses, with ac t iv i t ies varying from general merchandizing t o the low volume, high value r e t a i l estab- lishments.

This planninp d i s t r i c t accounts

The Belmont, Riverside, and Solomon Run Planninp Districts are limited t o the neighborhood convenience shopping outlets, grocery stores, service stations, restaurant-tavern, and distribution type f a c i l i t i e s .

Stonycreek Township is primarily a dormitory community with over f i f t y per cent of the developed land used for residential Durposes. residential exnansion may require same limited commercial expansion t o meet local needs; however, any major commercial expansion is not anticipated clue t o the measures of the Central Core of the City and the principal shopping centers located i n the Geistown-Richland areas.

The continued

In the Future Land IJse Plan it i s recommended tha t approximately 46.0 acres of land be developed for commercial purposes would be adequ3te t o accm- modate convenient shopping needs of the projected population. No major c m e r -

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II

cia1 f a c i l i t i e s are anticipated or recmended within the Township limits due t o the Township,'s proximity t o existing, regional commercial facil i t ies.

The present industr ia l base is limited i n size, and is l ikely t o remain so in the future.

. t he Riverside Planning District. s i te , and within easy access of major highways, railroad and u t i l i t i e s . and sewage is available fo r industrial use. occupies an area of 11.3 acres or 7 % of the t o t a l 161.3 acres of land tha t is available f o r l igh t industrial use.

The primary area of industrial development is located i n The industr ia l area occupies a 161.3 acre

Water Industrial development i n Riverside

Land set aside for industry, such as Riverside, is conveniently access- abi le t o workers employed i n the industries. The S i t e is located near in te r - connec:tinp t r a n s i t routes, highways, and other transportation fac i l i t ies such as railroads and truck routes. l i t y l ines , power, water, and waste disposal f a c i l i t i e s . The area is reason- ably level with a slope of not more than 5% and capable of being graded econm- ica l ly . residences, and t h e controls of manufacturing have placed the industrial area i n cmpa t ib i l i t y with other surrounding uses,

The s i t e is also served by large canacity u t i -

The direction of prevailing winds, open space between industry and

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CHART I I I I ~I

1

POPULATION GROWTH I93 0-1990 POPULATION

DWELLING UNITS

3,000

SVOMVCREER VOWMSMUP HOUSING GROWTH

1930--1990 DWELLING UNITS BY DENSITY

TABLE I

STONYCRFEK TOWNSHIP

FUTURE LAND USE

RESIDENTIAL tn w a, a, k c, cn

Future 509.6 140.4 1 2 , l 325.0 3 2 , l Solomon R u n

Exis t ing 509.6 8.9 0.5 0.7 467 6 31.9

Future 785.6 258.1 211,3 60.7 40.0 5.9 127 6 82.0

Ex i s t ing 785.6 155.6 7,6 10 .1 1 ,9 6 , 8 523 a 8 79,8

u3

Oakland

Future 653.2 284,3 26 ,P 30.9 4.6 57.6 213 e 3 56 ., O.., Belmont

EXiSth'lg 653 2 67,4 S,O 6.,4 4,O 6.6 - 1 . 2 527.3 35,3 Future 283,6 43,9 6 ,9 1.1 161,3 1 , 6 36,8 26,O

Riuersi.de Exfs t ing 2 8 3 , b 24:3 4,5 '118 . . '3209 ' '129 .P94d2 . 24 i 8

Tota l Acres Future 2 ,232 ,o 733,P 256,4 91,6 45,7 P6J, 3 65,P 702 0 7 176 ,P

CHART II LAND USE BY PLANNING DISTRICT

156 I \\ !56 -

211

I

ACRES

SINGLE FAMILY T

MEDIUM DENSITY

HIGH DENSITY

COhlMERClAL

LIGHT IND. i - 161

80 60 40 20 0 I I I

ACRES 0 $0 40 60 80 I I I

S 0 L 0 M 0 N

R U N

0 A K L A N D

I I SINGLE FAMILY

MEDIUM DENSITY

HIGH DENSITY

I COMMERCIAL p I LIGHT IND. 11

PUBLIC 1

527 CONSERVATIOrI

STREETS

466

I I

1 I

4 PUBLIC 524 I COI !SERVATION 1 - 1

STREETS

1

SOURCE: CAMBRIA COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION

B E L M 0 N T

R I v E R S I D E

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SI'ONYCREEK TOWNSPIP

C0M"ITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES

INTRODUCTION I

Cmuni ty Facilities and Services include a l l public and semi-public f a c i l i t i e s and services which when taken together provide for the safety, health education and general well-being of local residents. The avai labi l i ty and adequacy of these c m u n i t y f a c i l i t i e s i n turn reflect the general charac- t e r and desirabi l i ty of the Township as a place t o l ive ,

The essential community services such as protection, administration and education are provided t o the residents of the Township. However, a l l of these available community facil i t ies require expansion and. improvements t o adequately serve existinp and future needs.

SCHOOLS

Stonycreek Township is included as a part of the Johnstown School District: therefore, the Township's educational f a c i l i t i e s w i l l be i n accord- ance with the Long-range Development Plans made by the Johnstown School Board.

Currently there are elementary schools located i n the Oakland and River- side Planning Districts. Park Road, has been vacated for sane time and should be razed as it is a nuisance and a potential hazard to youngsters. the s i t e could be subdivided and sold as private residential lo t s or could be used as a playground and to t - lo t for childken of the neighborhood.

A third elementary school, located on t h e Highland

If the building were razed,

RECCNMENDED N E W ELINENTARY SCHOOL

In the Long-Range Development Plan being prepared by the Greater Johns- town School Board, the basic policy for elementary school. construction is t o consolidate existing obsolete elementary s c h o ~ l s with a new elementary unit of 1,000 students i n grades k through 6. la t ion i n Stonycreek Township and the Walnut Grove neighborhood is 875 students and with the projected population growth i n the Township the number of elementary children w i l l exceed 1,000 by 1975.

The present elementary school popu-

Presently, elementary students from the Township attend the Riverside and Oakland Elementary Schools. 1910, houses children in grades k-4 with the f i f t h and s ixth graders from the attendance area beging transported t o the Roxbury or Maple Park Elementary Schools. grades k-6. Department of Public Instruction Standards and are located on s i t e s of an inadequate size.

The Oakland Elementary School, constructed i n

The Riverside Elementary, Constructed in 1922, houses children i n Both of the existing Schools would require rehabili tation to meet

(less than 2 acres)

In order t o provide an adequate elementary school t o house the existing and projected student population within the attendance area and. t o replace

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several of the obsolete elementary schools currently serving the area, a new elementary school is proposed in the Sann Street area of the Township. s i t e is located near the geographic center of the Township and in an area where substantial future development w i l l occur because of the amount of available vacant land. s i t e is accessable t o the Moxham Neighborhood of the City of Johnstown and could accommodate an enrollment overlap from other portions of the school d i s t r i c t located nearby.

The

In addition t o serving the needs of the Township, the

The proposed elementary school should be of sufficient s ize t o accommodate a projected enrollment of 1,000 t o 1,200 students, building should contain a minimum of forty classrooms as well as cafeteria, gymnasium and related f ac i l i t i e s . To comply with the necessary recreation and open-space standards, the s i t e should contain a minimum of 20 acres of usable land. Due t o the lack of available land within the school d i s t r i c t boundaries, it is recmended that the Sann Street s i t e be acquired in the near future and preserved for school purposes even though construction w i l l not be ini t ia ted unt i l 1975 according t o the School Boards pr ior i ty for elementary school replacement.

improvements t o Highland Park Road and the proposed reconstruction of Krings Road w i l l make the Sann Street area increasingly attractive for new residential growth as well as an excellent s i t e for the proposed elementary school.

Obviously, the

The proposed extension of water and sewer service as well as proposed

RECREPT ION

Parks and recreation are fo r people. Therefore, they must be planned

They must be located t o take advantage of the natural and man-made

t o serve and sat isfy the unique and particular needs of each segment of the population. Also, the best park and recreation systems must be resource- oriented. resources of the area its h i l l s , valleys and its system of land use and t r a f f i c ways.

Fully a3 important as the amount of land is its proper distribution in relation t o needs and resources. It is cl&r that the park and recreation system of the future must be a balanced combination of recreation centers. The centers should grow out of natural features and the immediate and long-range needs of the people. area. that the whole Township becomes one inter-related system of parks with homes, insti tutions, and c m e r c i a l areas attractively distributed.

These green centers w i l l import a new structure t o the The effort must be t o so devise the park and recreation long-range plan

RECcMhENDATIONS

Recommendations for a Comprehensive Recreational Program t o serve the residents of Stonycreek Township are summarized below. f i e ld of recreation f a c i l i t i e s from those of a regional nature t o those which apply t o the individual neighborhood. A l l of these f a c i l i t i e s w i l l play an important part in the comprehensive approach t o a local recreation program. The responsibility of implementation and the means of financing th i s endeavor can be achieved through ut i l izat ion of Township Funds, grants from State and Federal Administered Recreation Programs - 500 Million Dollar Conservation and Recreation Program, Project 70 Funds, Federal Open-Space Act and Land and

This summary spans a

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Wat r Cons rvation Fund and through neirrhborhood ac ion committees. Th to t a l program is proposed on a long-range basis, but each element shal l be in tiated as soon as possible. These recreation f ac i l i t i e s are identified on Map No. 2 .

PROPOSED REGIONAL PARK

Richland Park - Highland Boosters

Located in the northeastern quadrant of the Oakland Planning Distr ic t , Richland Park is proposed as a regional park to serve Geistown Borough, Richland Township and Stonyereek Township. It is recmended that provisions be made fo r a f u l l range of ac t iv i t ies such as picnicking, hiking, playfields and winter sports ac t iv i t ies be developed within the area, area is approximately 60 acres.

The to t a l proposed developed

This regional park should include access and circulation roads, t r a i l s ,

Planning should be devel-oped as

picnic pavilions, play areas and scenic outlooks to emphasize the natural beauty of the area. This project w i l l preserve open-space in-a natural s t a t e and serve the recreation needs of a large regional area, soon as possible with construction phased over a period of years.

PROPOSED C@"ITY RECREATION FACILITIES

Lorain Park

Lorain Park cmprised of approximately 80 acres, is located in the central portion of Stonyereek Township. Currently, most of Lorain Park is undeveloped because of the excessive degree of slope. and natural t r a i l s be located within thisdems6ly wooded park. I t is also rectnn- mended that Lorain Park should be a permanent conservation area because of the natural beauty of the wooded slopes and its location in the center of Stonycreek Township

I t is recmended that hiking

Highland Park

The 49 acre Highland Park, currently owned by the City of Johnstown, is located in the Belmont Planning Distr ic t adjacent t o the Public Housing Project. A t one time 5 acres of the park were developed as a picnic area. condition of the picnic pavilions, f i r e places an4 picnic.benches have deteriorated over the years t o the present unuseable condition. Stonycreek Township Officials and the Johnstown Housing Authority cooperate in a joint effor t t o either lease or purchase the park from the City of Johnstown. The park should be replaced and retained as a passive recreation area fo r the families of the Public Housing Units and Stonycreek Township. should be developed throughout the park.

However, the

I t is recommended that the

Hiking and nature t r a i l s

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I I I I I I I I I I 1 I B I I I I I I

Riverside Elementaw School Plavuound

Future improvements t o the Riverside Elementary School, recmended t o supplement the existing f a c i l i t i e s , are additional play apparatus, volley b a l l court, swings and a paddle tennis court. with the Johnstown School Board i n establishing a summer recreation program a t both the Oakland and Riverside Elementary Schools,

Township Officials should cooperate

PROPOSED N E W PARKS

Oakland Playground

It is recmended that 1.75 acre s i te direct ly i n back of the Municipal Building be developed into a neighborhood park. but with a minimal e f for t , can be developed. plan on page 20 €or de ta i l s of the proposed park.

The area is now undeveloped, Refer t o the preliminary sketch

Riverside Playground

A park should be developed in th.e Riverside Planning District t o compliment the existing recreation f a c i l i t i e s offered a t the Riverside Elementary School. Located at the end of Riverside Avenue, the 1.5 acre s i te should- include a bal l - f i e ld , basketball court, tennis court, swings, and a to t - lo t . Refer t o the preliminary sketch plan on page 2 1 for de ta i l s of the proposed park.

The foll~~ing standards are suggested and should be adopted in f o m l a t i n p future recreation programs. These standards are based upon recommendations of the National Recreation Association which point out that various local factors w i l l influence the scope of each program in different areas and should therefore be adjusted accordingly.

RECREATION AREA STANDARDS

Fac i 1 i t y Age Group S i t e Size Area Served Locat ion S i te Fac i l i t i es

Play l o t or Tot Lot

Play- ground

Playfield

Parks

Up t o 6 years

'Young People and Adults

10,000 Square f t .

8-10 acres

15-25 acres

A 1 1 age groups 20-50 acres

SOURCE: National Recreation Association

1 block or Limited Play apparatus 1/8 mile Neighborhood suitable for

small children

Residential Near Center Apparatus areas, neighbor hood of service open playfields,

(1 /2 mile radius) area or ad- court games joining elementary school

I I I I I I' I I I I I I I I I

Approximately Near Junior or Court and Field 1 mile Senior High games,parking and

School t o family areas serve 3-5 neighborhoods

by ent i re ser- picnic, t r a i l s

I Easily reached Game Areas, pool, I h n i c ipa l i t y vice area

14

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I ,I

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Dale Park

Part ia l ly located i n Stonycreek Township, Dale Park is under the jurisdiction of Dale Borough. 10 acres developed as playfields. Although the responsibility of expanding the parks f a c i l i t i e s belong t o the Dale Borough Council, it is recommended that the Stonycreek Officials cooperate i n any feasible effor t t o develop the park.

The park is approximately 20 acres i n s ize w i t h

PROPOSED NEIGHBOFWOOD PARK

Hoffman Park

Although small in number of usable acres, Hoffman Park can be used as a local sof tbal l f i e ld and a to t - lo t . I t is located on a h i l l s ide well away from Penrod Street and is a natural recreation area i n the Oaklancl Area. I t is recmended that a neighborhood clean-up campaign be in i t ia ted t o improve the playfield. Financial assistance from the Township plus local contributions from neighborhood families should be used as a means to equip th.e park with t o t l o t f a c i l i t i e s .

PROPOSED NEIGHBORHOOD PLAYGROUNDS

Belmont Home Plavnround

It is recommended that the existing playground be expanded and improved t o adequately service the Public Housing Project. area of 0.8 acre and should be expanded to a s ize of 8 t o 10 acres t o adequately serve the existing and future population. the Johnstown Housing Authority constantly informed of th i s need.

The playground occupies an

The Township Officials should keep

Coldren Street Playground

The Coldren Street Playground is approximately 0.8 of an acre i n s ize Because of the close and located i n a high density area next t o Lorain Park.

proximity t o Lorain Park, further expansion is not needed. should be provided for the pre-school children in the area.

Tot-lot f a c i l i t i e s

Frieda Street Playground

The Frieda Street Playground is one of the most a t t rac t ive play areas i n Stonycreek Township. is 1 . 2 acres i n size. t o t - l o t f a c i l i t i e s and the ba l l f ie ld should be reconstructed.

Located i n the Oakland Planning Dis t r ic t , th.e playground I t is recommended that improvements be made t o include

Oakland Elmentarv School Plavrrround

It is recomended that the Johnstown School Board improve the t o t - l o t f a c i l i t i e s and play area a t the Oakland Elementary School Playground. Stonycreek Township Officials and the Johnstown School Board should coordinate a s h e r playground program for the pre-school through grade 6 children i n the Oakland Area.

The

1 5

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PUBLIC WATER

The existing public water systems in Stonycreek Township are operated by the Highland Sewer and Water Authority and the Greater Johnstown Water Authority. Public water in Stonycreek Township w i l l continue to be supplied by the High- land Sewer and Water Authority and the Greater Johnstown Water Authority. location of the existing future water lines and storage f a c i l i t i e s is indicated on Map 3, mended future water l ines f o r Stonycreek Township.

Presently they serve only the areas of concentrated developnent.

The

The following paragrphs list, by Planninp Distr ic ts , the recom-

Planning Distr ic t 1: Solmon Run

A s development occurs in the Solomon Run Planning Distr ic t the existing This proposed public water l ine along Old Solomon Run Road should be extended.

l ine w i l l be an extension of the Johnstown Water Authority System.

Plannine District 2 : Oakland

In the Oakland Planning Distr ic t , existing water l ines should'be extended t o the areas adjacent t o Richland Park and water lines should be laid in the Wertz Road area t o enhance developnent of the potential s i t e . the Oakland Planning District is , and w i l l continue t o be, supplied from the Johnstown Water Authority Storage Tanks near the end of Wertz Road,

The northern section of

Planning District 3: Belmont

Future water f a c i l i t i e s in the Belmont Planning District w i l l continue to be supplied by the Highland Sewer and Water Authority except f o r the Belmont Hmes Area, which w i l l continue t o be supplied FFi g Johnstown Water Authority Storage Tank located in the western portion of the Belmont Planning District.

Planning District 4: Riverside

In the Riverside Planning District exist-ing water lines should be extended, and a new water l ine constructed from Niel Street into the l ight industr ia l area as development warrants. The Riverside Planning District w i l l continue to be supplied by the Greater Johnstown Water Authority from a main l ine along Liberty Avenue.

i

I t . i s important that Stonycreek Township Officials monitor development in a l l four Planning Districts t o ensure orderly and. economic extension of public water line. and Water Authority should be advised of any development in these areas sa that their planning and programming of construction w i l l coincide with water demands i n these areas.

The Greater Johnstown Water Authority and the Highland Sewer

SANITARY SEWERS

A t present a l l of the developed areas in Stonycreek Township are served Construction of the system was begun in the summer of 1962

The present system consists of a 20 mile long network by sanitary sewers. and cmpleted i n 1963. of trunk lines and la terals . Authority Treatment Plant a t Dornick Point.

A l l sewage flows to the Johnstown Municipal

16

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FUTURE SANITARY SEW€% REC-ATIONS

The size md location of existing and future l ines is indicated on Map 4, the extension of existing l ines and construction of new sewer l ines w i l l be necessary t o supply areas of future development.

The follawing paragraphs recommend , by Planning Districts, where

PPamim District 1: Solomon Run

A s development eears i n the Solomon Run Planninp District a sanitary sewer l ine can be extended from the existing Pine along Old Solomon Run Road. The existing Pine primarily serves as a collector for the northern Penrod Street section 05 the Oakland Planning District. The existing l ine and its future extension w i l l flow into the Johnstown Municipal Authority Collector i n the Walnut Grove section of Johstswn.

P l m i n ~ District 2: Oakland

Pumre s a n i t a y sewer construction i n the Oakland Planning Distr ic t should consist of the extension of existing l ines and the construction of a new lines i n both the northeastern and the Wertz Road portions of the Planning District. eastern side of Penrod Street above Florida Avenue.

Future extension of existing l ines w i l l occur predominantly on the

One of these l ines has already been proposed to run fran the existing sewer main located a t the intersection of the Falls Run and Walter Avenue i n Geistown Borough, dawn Devils Race Course t o the Solomon R u n Road, t b a point connecting with the Johstom~ Municipal Authority Sewer System. This proposed trunk Pine is t o be eonst-mcted i n 1972-1973 by the Highland Sewer and Water Authority. Park, a sewer l ine can be extended from the proposed "Falls Run" trunk l ine t o the develcpment s i te ,

A s sufficient development occurs i n the area adjacent t o Richland

A storm drainage problem exis ts in the Oakland Neighborhood on Ferg A stom sewer project should be implemented immediately t o channel Street.

the run-off amd t o insure against further water damage t o the property.

hood i s a potential s i te fo r multi-fmiP-y development. area fQr residential deve'iopment, proper sewer and water f a c i l i t i e s should be proposed, A sanitary sewer l ine e m be constructed i n th i s area by extending the Ruby Street sewer l ine t o the top of th.e Wertz H i l l .

A sanitary sewer l ine should be considered i n the Wertz Road neighbor- especially in Sight of' the f ac t that the area a t the top of Wertz Road

In order t o enhance th i s

Furure seww eonstriction i n the Behont Planning District w i l l be limited to the Sam Streer: area. A sewer l ine down Sann Street should receive immediate consideration because of the increasing residential development occurring i n th i s area. The Pine would flow into the Highland Park Road Sewer l ine which is a pan of the Johnstown Municipal Authority System.

17

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I I I I 1 I I I 1 I I I I I I 1

FIRE PROTECTION

Existing f i r e protection for Stonycreek Township is provided by the Oakland Volunteer Fire Company and th.e Riverside Volunteer Fire Company. In addition, both organizations have cooperating agreements with volunteer f i r e companies in adjacent municipalities.

Additional volunteer f i r e fighters and new equipment w i l l be needed t o maintain the excellent reputation of the volunteer companies in serving the Township as it develops. Cooperating agreements with the Johnstown Fire Department and volunteer f i r e companies in adjacent municipalities should be continued in order t o provide adequate future f i r e protection for Stonycreek Township residents.

Both f i r e cmpanies, in addition t o providing excellent f i r e protection, also provide modern ambulance service,

19

I I I I I~ I I I 1 I I 1 1 I 1 I I I

J a

I-: u)

W a W LL

/

WINTER

APPROXIMATE SCALE I " = 80'


w = - - I = m

/

F BLDG. /

PRICE ST

PROPOSED RIVERSIDE PLAYGROUND

:/. . . . . BALLFIELD '

. _ . . . .-. * . . . : . . . . , . .. . ' ( ' . '

APPROXIMATE SCALE I"= 40'


RIVERSIDE AVE.

W v)

W a

a z I-

I I

I

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STONYCREEK TOWNSHIP

FUTURE THOROUGHFARES

INTRODUCTION

Local and regional highway systems play a c r i t i ca l Dart i n the projected growth or decline of a community. In fact , regional transportation f a c i l i t i e s and inter-community circulation systems have been daninant influences in past growth and w i l l exert an even greater influence on future developent. One of the prfmary bases for anticipated growth in Stonycreek Township is the gradual implementation of highway improvements which have been planned for the Greater Johnstown Regional Area. related t o highway considerations t o some degree.

Every major recommendation i n the Land TJse Plan is

The highway system i n Stonycreek Township w i l l eventually be cmprised of four general categories which include (1) regional, (2) a r t e r i a l , (3) collector, and (4) local t r a f f i c carriers. exert definite influences on the cmun i ty . Map No. 5, enti t led "Future Thoro- ughfares ," indicates the proposed system for Stonycreek Township.

Each of these serve as a specific function and

MAJOR HIGHWAY RECOIMENDATIONS

State Routes

State maintained routes are generally classified as a r te r ia l s wh.ich. take t r a f f i c through the Township i n addition t o providing access.to areas within Stonycreek Township.

Solamon Run ExPresswavs

The Solomon Run Expressway Legislative Route 11012, is a major expressway aonnection between the c i ty and Route 219, as well as the suburban East H i l l s commercial d i s t r i c t . t ion of a limited access highway w i l l begin in 1969 which will connect the Roose- ve l t Boulevard Expressway and the Solomon R u n Expressway. highway directly connects the c i ty and Route 219. the center of Johnstown, existing volumes of 3,800 vehicles per day, should increase and reduce the present through t r a f f i c volumes of 12,300 vehicles per day on Bedford Street.

To the west of the terminal point of t h i s highway, construc-

This new section of A s the route is extended into

Bedford Street

Bedford Street, FAP 222 , is the most heavily traveled s t ree t i n the

Variations i n the volumes along the route ref lect the

Township accomodating both through and local t ra f f ic . Volumes range f r m 12,300 a t the bottom of Oakland H i l l t o 11,500 vehicles west of the Penrod Street intersection. intensity of local t ra f f ic . the ci ty , 11,500 pass through Penrod Street intersection indicating that some 800 t r ips originate or are destined frm same area in the Oakland Planning District between the two points. Street ref lects t r a f f i c entering Bedford Street from Penrod Street. The further re- ductions of volumes between Wales and Walters Avenue is again a reflection of local t r a f f i c entering and leaving Bedford Street between the two points. A s

O f the 12,300 vehicles entering the Township from

The increase to 11,900 vehicles west of Penrod

25

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previously indicated, the completion of the Solmon Run Expressway w i l l tend to reduce the flow of through t r a f f i c along t h i s route. Also, with the expressway completion, the function of Bedford Street w i l l change from a major a r t e r i a l t o a major collector. guard against hazardous conditions.

For th i s reason, continued maintenance is reconunended to

Ohio Street

Ohio Street, L.R. 756 carries approximately 7,300 vehicles per day through the Township and is a collector route between the G e i s t m area and the Moxham Area. The recent realignment and reconstruction of Ohio Street has greatly improved the s t ree t , however, some serious problems remain which should be considered for future improvement.

I t is recammended that sight distance and the turning movements be corrected a t the intersection of Brentwood and Ohio Streets, t o ensure safe access and egress a t this intersection.

Behont Avenue -.. Highland Park Road

Belmont Avenue, Legislative Route 11099 functions primarily as a local collector providing access t o the Belmont Planning Distr ic t . enters the Township from the Geistown Area the volume is 1,400 vehicles. mately 600 t r i p s terminate in the Belmont Area and an additional 600 t r i p s terminate a t the Behont Homes Project composed of t r a f f i c generated in the neighborhood i n addition to through t ra f f ic . Although Behont Avenue and Highland Park Road serve as the same collector s t ree t , the name changes in the separate areas it passes through. With the developnent of the residential area i n the Belmont Planning Distr ic t , Belmont Avenue w i l l become more important. I t is therefore reconunended that the serious alignment and grade problems be kproved if th i s s t ree t is t o efficiently service residents of the area in the future. i s the s i t e of the p-~oposed elementary school. This factor warrants the improvement of Highland Park Road near the C i t y boundary where most dangerous turning movements exist.

A s the s t ree t Approxi-

The 1,100 vehicle flow on Highland Park Road is

A large, vir tual ly undeveloped, plateau area on Sann Street

Boone Street

Boone Street , A5538, provides access to the Riverside Planning District as well as acecamnodating a substantial flow of through t r a f f i c from the Richland Hilltop t o the Westmont Hilltop. The local t r a f f i c is i l lustrated i n the River- side area by a reduction in volume from 2,700 t o 2,200 vehicles as the s t ree t crosses over "Hog Back" Ridge. Approximately 500 t r ips terminate or originate i n the developed portion of the neighborhood along the river. near the Krings Bridge is p r h a r i l y composed of through t r a f f i c , although some t r ips are generated by the l ight industrial ac t iv i t ies along the route. With the completion of Krirgs Road to Eisenhower Boulevard, access to the Richland area w i l l be greatly improved and the flow of through t r a f f i c in Riverside can be expected t o increase. Serious turning problems a t a number of places along Boone Street made th i s somewhat less than an efficient collector s t ree t . In- creasing volumes on Eisenhower Boulevard w i l l cause serious problems on Boone Street if the existing conditions are not improved.

The 1,700 volume

I t is also recommended that

26

1 I i 8 I I I~


Boone Street be reconstructed along the Stonycreek River, the hazardous curves eliminated and the sight distance a t the railroad crossing be improved.

Oakland Avenue

The "S" curve connecting Oakland Avenue and Penrod Street is very hazardous and should be given pr ior i ty consideration towards its realignment. This collector road presently accmodates about 5,500 vehicles daily. With the potential development of the Wertz Road Area, volumes w i l l become even greater. The realignment of t h i s road section is necessary t o eliminate an existing safety hazard and also to accomnodate increased use of this s t r ee t as a collector.

TOWNSHIP STREETS

The remaining s t ree ts within the Township function as local s t ree ts and provide direct access t o properties and ac t iv i t ies abutting them. out most of the Township, local s t ree ts are relatively free of excessive through t r a f f i c . Penrod Street accmodates the highest flow of local t r a f f i c with 1,700 vehicles per day near the intersection of Bedford Street. Because of the length and nature of Penrod Street it may be considered a local collector. Avenue and Neil Street i n the Riverside Planning Neighborhood accmodate limited volumes of through t r a f f i c generated by industrial ac t iv i t ies a t the ends of the s t ree t .,

Through-

Michigan

Local s t ree ts which provide access t o the residential properties i n each of the Planning District probably have volumes in the 100 t o 500 vehicle per day range depending on location and number of properties being served.

Penrod Street

Penrod Street is an important local s t ree t i n the Oakland Planning Distr ic t . A s development of the residential area north of Bedford Street continues, Penrod Street w i l l increase in importance as a local collector. I t is recmended- that Penrod Street be widened t o more easily and safely accmodate th i s anticipated increase in t r a f f i c volume.

Walter Avenue

Walter Avenue, jus t east of Stonycreek Township, serves as a collector fo r the Oaklmd and Belmont Planning Districts t o the Solmon Run Fxpressway and Route 219. a potential residential area in the northeast quadrant of Stonycreek Township, warrants improvements t o maximize its importance and efficiency. the entire length of the road plus realignment especially near the intersection a t Bedford Street are most urpent. An llS" curve, similar to the "S" curve connecting Oakland Avenue ana Penrod Street, presents the same type of hazardous situation. The condition a t th i s curve w i l l be a continuous hazard t o residen- t i a l development along and adjacent t o th i s s t ree t . curve should coincide with the recmended improvements to the entire length of Walter Avenue

This collector role, plus the fact that it provides access t o

Widening of

The realignment of th i s

27

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I

Highland Park Road

more of The Highland Park Road i n the Townships Belmont neighborhood is becoming a Droblem as through t r a f f i c continues t o increase and develoDment i n the

adjacent &ea increases. more intensely developed as a residential area which in turn generates more vehicles using the road. severe intersection a t the City l ine, warrants the improvement of th i s road. These improvements w i l l f ac i l i t a t e easing t r a f f i c movements and provide better access t o the potential residential area in Belmont.

The area south of the Fighland Park Road is' becoming

The existing grades and sharp turns, along with the

Krings Road

The Krings Road in Belmont should be reconstructed and realigned so it may function as a collector street between Sann Street and the Belmont Homes, t o the new Eisenhower Boulevard. greatly intensified and accelerated with the construction of Krinp Road as an efficient t ra f f ic carr ier .

This area has started to develop and could be

NEW ROADS

I t is recwunended that the Township consider the construction of new roads into areas of potential development. Three areas in Stonycreek Township are vir tual ly undeveloped, but possess tremendous potential. In the northeast corner of the Township are about 150 acres of attractive land that is w e l l located to Bedford Street and the Solomon Run Expressway. of the existing, unpaved, Hollow Road w i l l provide an improved access road t o th i s area.

Widening and surfacing

A second new road needed is an extension of Ruby Street t o the top of Wertz H i l l . road off Bedford Street . A new road must be constructed t o ensure safe and efficient access.

The only accessway t o th i s area a t present is a very steep winding

The third new road recommended for Stonycreek Township is the extension This is a section of of the existing Boone Street located west of Neil Street .

the proposed Beltway Road System around the Deriphery o f Johnstown. would be a valuable asset i n the developnent of the l ight industrial area in the Riverside Planning District.

This road

INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS

An analysis of the future thoroughfare recommendations has led t o the recommended improvements of the following specific intersections t o coincide with the improved ar ter ia ls . ments because they present serious safety hazards i n their present condition.

The following intersections are cited in need of improve-

28

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I

Walters Avenue and Bedford Street Intersection

In the Oakland neighborhood a serious intersection hazard exists a t Walter Avenue and Bedford Street. v is ibi l i ty . I t is recommended that an effort be made to improve the visibi- l i t y f o r drivers turning onto Bedford Street, along with improvements t o the grade of Walter Avenue be implemented imediately t o lessen the danger a t this intersection.

The problem is a steep grade and limited

Highland Park Road and Belmont Avenue Intersection

In the Belmont Area there is a "Y" intersection a t Highland Park Road and Belmont Avenue which is serious because of poor markings and sharp turning movements and limited vis ibi l i ty . realigned t o provide the proper sight distance and alleviate the sharp turning movement

I t is recommended that the intersection be

Oakland Avenue and Ohio Street Intersection

Another intersection which is outside the Township, but on a road which services many Township residents, is the intersection of Oakland Avenue and Ohio Street i n Lorain Borough. tion and is cmpounded by very steep grades and poor v is ib i l i ty . along Ohio Street are very close t o the road which impairs vision and turning movement. Borough Officials in placing proper warning signs near and a t this intersection. Also, a t peak t r a f f i c hours a policeman should control a l l t r a f f i c to ensure the safety fo r a l l motorists.

Very serious turning movements exist from every direc- Structures

It is recomended that Township Officials cooperate with Lorain

I I I 1 I I

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STONYCREEK TOWNSHIP

LENGTH AND PAVING OF STREFTS BY PLANNING DISTRICTS

Existing Length i n Miles PLANNING DISTRICT Paved % Unpaved % Paved % 1Jnpaved %

Future Length i n Miles

Solomon Run

S t a t e Maintained Township Alleys tj Not Ordained

TcrrAL

Oakland

2 .12 96% 0.09 4% - - - - - - -

2 . 2 1

S t a t e Maintained Township Alleys G Not Ordained

TCrrAL

Belmont


TOTAL

Riverside

S t a t e Maintained Township Alleys 6 Not Ordained

TOTAL

TOWNSHIP TOTAL


TOTAL

.89 11.8% 6.68 88.0% 0.01 0.2%

7.58

1.10 26.4% 3.07 73.6% - - - - - - - - -

4.17

4.39

6.000 32.7% 12.300 67.2%

0.001 0.1%

18.301

SOURCE: Cambria County Planning Commission, 1969

30

2.76 100%

0.89 11.0% 44% 8.19 88.0% 56% 0.48 1.0%

- - - -

9.56 100%

5.36 100%

6.35 100%

- - - - 6.0 .26.9% 67% 16.66 67.25 33% 1.37 5.9%

24.03


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REGIONAL HIGHWAY NET WORK: ~

STONYCREEK TOWNSHIP

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

The implementation of recommendations contained in the Long Range Plan can be accomplished through the preparation of a Capital Improvement Program and Budget. This involves:

9. The preparation of a comprehensive l i s t i np of a l l recommended capi ta l improvements.

2. An analysis of the scope and relat ive need of each improvement.

3. The assignment of costs and. responsible agency for each improvement.

4 .

Through this process, the community is provided a Capital Improve- ment Program which generally extends over a twenty year period. program, a s i x year Capital Improvement Budget is drawn which w i l l guide the Township and provide an orderly and systematic means of accomplishing each proposed improvement. Consistant evaluation of the Capital Budget, and the Total Capital Improvements Program, is required t o maintain a continuous program which re f lec ts current community needs and available or anticipated municipal funds.

check those improvements accomplished, delayed or revised during the previous year, assess the Township's resources f o r the coming year and add t o the Canital Budget those projects necessary for the future growth i n the community. In th i s manner, a new budget is devised, extending over the next six-year period.

Establishing pr ior i ty f o r each improvement.

From th is

This evaluation must occur yearly. Municipal o f f i c i a l s should

Table IV, Long Range Capital Improvement Program, outlines 20 pro-

Phase I1 and I11 are scheduled

posed capi ta l improvements which r e f l ec t proposals included i n the Lonp Range Plan. Phase I should be included in the i n i t i a l capi ta l budgeting period. throughout the planning period of twenty years.

These improvements are grouped in three phases.

33

1. Ferg Street Paves Curb Storm Sewer 1969 $25 000.00 Township Township Highway Fund FROM: 'Brier Street TO: Linwood Street

2 , Coldren Street Widen, Realign, Pave FROM: LaFree Avenue TO: Rustic Avenue

3 . Storm Sewer Project Penrod Street FROM: Florida Avenue TO: Bedford Street

4. Penrod Skeet Pave FROM: Florida Avenue TO: Ocala Avenue

1970

1970-71

1970-71

$27,000.00

$20,000,00

$25,000.00

Township

Township

Township

Township Highway Fund

Township Appropriation

Township Highway Fund

34 0

Estimated Responsible Project De scription Schedule cost Entity Proposed Method of Financing

5. Riverside Playground

6. Oakland Playground

7. Penrod Street Pave

1970-71 To Be Deter- Township Township Appropriation

$500 million bond issue mined Project 70 Funds

1971-72

1972

To Be Deter- Township r . Township Appropriation mined Projeet 70 Funds

$500 million bond issue

Township Township Highway Fund .‘W.

$25,000.00

FROM: Ocala Avenue TO: Tampa Avenue

8. Storm Sewer Construction 1973 $18,000.00 Township Township Appropriation Long Street, Bay Street Area

9. Intersection Improvements 1.974 To Be Deter- Pennsylvania Appropriation mined Department of

Highways

10. Re ional Park fiecreation

11. Elementary School

1969-75 $ 8,000.00 Township Recreation Fund Appropriation

1974-75 To Be Johnstown Bond Issue Determined School District State/Federal Aid

Phase I1 Elements to be initiated immediately -- completion of phase during planning pe riod,

12. Sanitary Sewer Construction 1969-89 To Be Township, Bond Issue Determined Highland Sewer

and Water Authority , Johnstown Municipal Authority

35.

Estimated Responsible Project De script ion Schedule cost Entity Proposed Method of Financing

13. Water Line Construction 1969-89 To Be Township Bond Issue Determined Highland Sewer

and Water Authority

Laurel Management Authority

14. Regional Beltway 1975 -80 To Be State /Federal Highway Appropriations Boone Street Extension Determined State/Federal Aid

15. Neighborhood Playgrounds 1970-89 To Be Township Recreation Fund Determined General Fund

Neighborhood Donation

Phase 111 to be scheduled during next six years for financing in future capital budgets.

16. Highland Park Road Widen, Realignment

18 Hollow Road New 'Qpstruction

19. Ruby Street New Construction

1976-77 To Be Township Township Highway Fund Determined Possible State Aid

1978-79 To Be Township Township Highway Fund Determined

1980-81 To Be Township Township Highway Fund Deter mined

1982-83 To Be Township Township Highway Fund Determined

State Pennsylvania Department 20. Intersection Improvements 1979-89 To Be Deter mined Of Highways

36.

1 I I I I I I I I I I B I I I I I I I

Each bf the individual elements contained i n the Capital Improve- ment Program l i s t ed on the above table are taken from the Long Ranpe Development Program. Following is a statement on each of these elements re la t ing t o actions required and cost considerations.

1. Ferg Street - - Paving, Curb and Storm Sewer Action: The Township Commissioners, with the

concurrence and support bf the local planning agency, should promote t h i s project for immediate action t o provide the residents of Ferg Street with an adequately paved s t r ee t .

Cost: Highway construction cost is approximately $25,000.00 f b r the paving, curbing, and storm sewer t o be implemented in this two block section of Ferg Street . The revenue from the Stonycreek Township Highway Fund w i l l be used t o finance t h i s project. Cost estimates reflected on Table IV are based on pr ice factors for secondary asphalt road widening which have been experienced within the region. These costs should be adjusted upward 5 t o 10% each year the project is extended as a result of increasing construction and material rates.

2. Coldren Street - - Widening, Realignment, Paving Action: The Township Commissioners should schedule

th i s as the second major project. realignment and paving is required on the 1,000 foot section of Coldren Street .

Widening

Cost: Highway Construction f o r t h i s section w i l l be approximately $27,000.00 t o be financed by the Township Highway Fund.

The Township Commissioners should plan t o undertake a storm sewer system to service Penrod Street from Florida Avenue t o Bedford Street . This should be scheduled for the th i rd project year.

3. Storm Sewer Construction Action:

Cost: Estimated cost for t h i s project is $20,000.00, t o be financed through the Township Highway Fund.

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4. Penrod Street - - Pave Action: The Township Commissioners should schedule the

paving of Penrod Street from Florida Avenue t o Ocala Avenue fo r the fourth project year.

Cost: The estimated cost of $25,Q00.00 includes the pr ice for secondary asphalt paving which have been experienced within the region. costs should be adjusted upward each year the project is extended by 5 t o 10% as a result of increasing construction and material ra tes .

These

5. Riverside Playground

6. Oakland Playground Action: Development should be accomplished by the

Township Recreation Committee with the concurrence and support of the Local and County Planning Agencies.

Cost: To be determined by f eas ib i l i t y study. Once the costs have been determined, various s t a t e and federal programs should be explored as a means of underwriting the exgense. Possibi- l i t ies inc1ud.e the followini.

a . Open Space Acquisition (Project "70"), State of Pennsylvania

b. Conservation and Recreation Program $500 Million Bond Issue State of Pennsylvania

c. Grants fo r Neighborhood Fac i l i t i es Department of Housing and Urban Development

7 . Penrod Street - - Pave Action: The Township Commissioners should schedule the

paving of Penrod Street , from Ocala Avenue t o Tampa Avenue, the year immediately fol1owin;s the first paving project on Penrod Street .

Cost: The estimated cost of $25,000.00 includes the pr ice for secondary asphalt paving which have been experienced within the region.

8. Storm Sewer Construction Action: The Township Commissioners should schedule

the construction of storm sewers in the Long Street - Bay Street Area t o a l lev ia te the sewer storm drainage experienced i n th i s area.

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r

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I

Cost: To be determined. To be Einanced through the Township highway Fund.

9. Intersection Improvement - Highland Park Road and Belmont Avenue Action: This project m u s t be effected by the State

Department of Highways. and Local Planning Commission should, with concurrence of t h e County Planning Commission, have t h i s project made par t of the State Highway De- partment Program.

The Township Commissioners

Cost: To be determined by State Feasibi l i ty and Engineering Study.

10. Regional Recreation - - Richland- Booster Park Action: A master plan should be developed immediately

which w i l l provide a schedule of improvements on a continuing basis according t o established phasing as programmed by the Inter-municipal Recreation Authority. (Richland, Geistown, Stonycreek) .

Cost: To be determined by f eas ib i l i t y study. Currently each municipality has agreed t o finance the program on a per capi ta r a t i o basis. is $8,000.00.

Stonycreek Township's share fo r 1969

11. Elementary School - - Sann Street

Action: The Planning Commissions from Stonycreek Township and the City of Johnstown should coordinate local growth data and report accordingly t o the J6hnstown School Board re la t ive t o the exact timing of t h i s f a c i l i t y .

Cost: To be determined by a Johnstown School Board Feasibi l i ty Study.

12 . . Sanitary Sewer Construction Action: The Township Commissioners should cooperate

with the Highland Sewer and Water Authority and the Johnstown Municipal Authority i n the development of a Sewer Feasibi l i ty Study. An engineering firm should be retained t o prepare a detailed study which w i l l provide data on cost ,service areas and timing of construction. This study should follow the basic u t i l i ty -Fogram which is outlined i n the Long Range Development Program.

To be determined by a f eas ib i l i t y study,. 1

Cost:

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13. Water Line Construction Action: The Township Commissioners should cooperate with

the Highland Sewer and Water Authority and the Laurel Management Authority in the development of a Water Feasibility Study. An engineering firm should be retained to prepare a detailed. study which will provide data on cost, service areas and timing of construction. This study should follow the basic utility program which is outlined in the Long Range Development Pro- gram.

Cost: To be determined by a Feasibility Study.

Promotion of the beltway system has and will continue to be a prime mission of the Johnstown and Cambria County Planning Agencies. local planning commission should actively participate in the promotion and urge prompt design and construction of the Stonycreek portion of the Beltway System.

14, Boone Street - - Regional Beltway Action:

The

Cost: The estimated cost of $21,400,000.00 includes the entire regional beltway system. estimate is available for the portion of the beltway which traverses Stonycreek Township; however, the entire system is necessary to benefit growth in the Township and the surrounding area.

No

15. Neighborhood Playgrounds Action: Development of these facilities must be the

responsibility of the neighborhood residents and the developers of residential areas, at least during the initial six year capital budget period, due to the limitation on Township resources at this time, Sites specified in the Long Range Development Program should be developed through annual additions of improvements and equipment.

I

Cost: To be determined after an investigation by the Recreation Committee.

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I 16. Highland Park Road - - Widen, Realignment Action: The Township Commissioners, with the concurrence

and support,of the County and Township Planning Commissions should promote t h i s project. heavy t r a f f i c volumes on t h i s road-warrants future action for improvements.

The

Cost: To be determined by a Feasibi l i ty Study. A l l possible State and Federal Aid Programs should be investigated.

17. Krings Road - - Widen, Realign Action: The Township Commissioners should schedule

Krings Road f o r improvement as development warrants.

Cost: To be determined.

18. Hollow Road - - New Street Action: A s development expands into the northeast

quadrant, the Township Commissioners should place Hollow Road on a future s i x year budget. If development is t o occur i n t h i s area, a new road is a m u s t f ac tor .

Cost: To be determined.

19. Ruby Street - - New Street Action: The Township Commissioners should schedule the

the extension of Ruby Street i n a future six year capi ta l budget. I t is visual ly evident tha t i f the Wertz H i l l Area is t o be developed, a new access road must be constructed t o ensure safe and ef f ic ien t access.

Cost: To be.determined.

20. Intersection Improvements Action: The Township Commissioners should cooperate

with the surrounding municipalities t o formulate an action policy to improve the following hazardous intersections.

a. b. c. Oakland Avenue and Ohio Street

Walters Avenue and Bedford Street Highland Park Road and Belmont Avenue

The Township, wip the concurrence and support of County and Local Planning Agencies, should promote th i s project through the Pennsylvania Department of Highways.

I I .

Cost: Engineering estimates by the State Department of Highways w i l l be required t o promote t h i s project.

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CAPITAL BUDGET

A capi ta l expenditures budget should be developed as recommended on Table V, which w i l l specify funds for a continuing program of needed improvements. of the Long Range Capital Improvement Program (Table IV], which wi.14. be of local f inancial responsibility.

The elements l i s t e d in Table V represent tb.e projects found i n Phase I

TABLE V SIX YEAR CAPITAL BUDGET

1969 - 1975 STONYCREEK TOWNSHIP

Proposed Projects 1969 1970 1971 I972 I973 197. f . Ferg Street $25,000

2. Coldren Street $27,000

3. Storm Sewer Construction $ 2 0,000

4. Penrod Street $25,000

5. Riverside Playgroimd !j 5,000

6. Oakland Playground $ 5,000

7 . Penrod Street $25,000

8. Storm Sewer Construction $18,000

9. Recreation $ 7,500 $ 8,000 $ 8,500 $ 8,000 $ 8,000 $ 8,000

TOTAL $32,500 $39,500 $32,500 $32,500 $32,500 $25,500

General operating expenses are expected t o follow established patterns of annual increase i n succeeding years. A l l revenues which have been previously derived from the current eleven m i l l tax levy and other sources of local income w i l l be required for current expenses, normal maintenance and debt service. Addi- t ional revenue derived from increased assessments w i l l be largely off-set by increased costs of government throughout the i n i t i a l S ix Year Capital Budget Period.

In order to supply revenue suff ic ient t o implement the Long Range

Table V I , Projected

The assessed values l i s t e d on Table V I a re based upon a constant one

Growth in the community by 1975 should

Development Plan as proposed i n the Six Year Capital Budget it is recommended tha t a two m i l l tax increase be adopted s ta r t ing i n 1970. Municipal Income, projects the additional revenue anticipated from th i s additional millage. percent annual increase. t o average ouf over the budget period. actually elevate annual assessment gains even higher than one percent.

While t h i s may a t first be optimistic, it can be expected

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%. I I I I 1 i 1 I I I 1 I I ,I I

FISCAL YEAR

TABLE V I PROJECTED MUNICIPAL I N C W

STONYCREEK TOWNSHIP 1969 - 1974

INCOME ADDITIONAL INCOME CURFENT 11 MILL LEVY TWO M I L L INCREASE

1968 4,816,010 52,976.11

1969 4,896,830 53,865.61

1970 4,945,798 54,403.78 9,891.60

1971 4,995,255 54,947.81 9,990.51

1972 5,045,207 55,497.28 10,090.41

1973 5,095,959 56,055.55 10,191.92

1974 5,146,918 56,616.10 10,293.83

I t w i l l be noted tha t the revenues anticipated from the additional

This w i l l provide f l ex ib i l i t y i n the event tha t actual revenues two m i l l s are i n excess of the Capital Improvements costs scheduled between 1969 and 1974. are less than the projections indicated.

I t must be noted that the indebtedness created in 1961 has been l iberated, therefore the two m i l l increase may not be necessary a t t h i s time. However, the Township Commissioners may create and maintain a separate reserve fund f o r any anticipated legal cap i ta l expenditures which sha l l be designated for it specif ic purpose or purposes a t the time of its creation, released by the l iberation of the indebtedness created i n 1961 can be diverted into a separate reserve fund fo r specif ic capi ta l expenditures.

t o borrow money and issue evidences of indebtedness to the extent, and i n the manner, i n which municipal d i s t r i c t s are now authorized t o incur or increase debts for the purpose of permanent improvalents but the t o t a l indebtedness so created sha l l not exceed tha t l imit setfor th by public law. borruwing capacity is i n excess of three hundred thousand dol lars .

t h i s program. which can channel the energies ahd resources of Stonycreek Township toward a new growth and opportunity.

and the Federal Government provide assistance t o cornunity develo&ent. subsidiary benefit , which would be of value t o the Township, is outlined, i n b r i e f , i n the appendix.

The monies

A second alternative is for the Township Commissioners, by ordinance,

Presently, the t o t a l

Undoubtedly adjustments w i l l be required during the development of However, the outline provided herewith offers goals t o be achieved

Through several Grants-In-Aid Programs, the State of Pennsylvania This

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I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

A P P E N D I X

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE *

Through various grant-in-aid programs, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Federal Government provide financial assistance to local government. The following digest of assistance provides a general outline of some of the principal aids available to local government. These programs should be utilized by the community in carrying out the capital improvements program and other programs of community development.

PROGRAMS OF THE DEPARTMENT O F HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

Advances for Public Works Planning

Purpo se s : Interest-free advances to assist planning for local public works

Specific Uses: Examples: Water and sewer systems, school buildings,

All types of public works, except public housing.

recreation projects , public buildings, irrigation projects, health facilities bridges.

Terms: Advance repayhble to HUD promptly upon construction of the planned public work.

Grants for Advance Acquisition of Land

Purposes: To encourage communities to acquire, in a planned and orderly fashion, land for future construction of public works and facilities,

Terms : Grants may not exceed the interest charges on a loan incurred to finance the acquisition of land for a period of not more than 5 years .

Grants for Basic Sewer and Water FaciLities.

Purposes : To assist and encourage communities to construct adequate basic water and sewer facilities to promote their orderly and efficient growth and development.

Specific Grants to finance up.to 50% of the cost of improving or Uses: constructing basic water and sewer facilities. Where

there is no existing system, the project must be so designed that it can be linked with other independent sewer and water facilities in the future.

Terms : To be determined


Grants for Neighborhood Facilities

Purposes :

Specific Uses :

Terms:

Public Facility Loans

Purposes:

Specific Uses:

Terms:

Urban Renewal

Purposes:

Specific Uses:

To provide neighborhood faci lities needed for programs carrying out helath , recreation, social or similar necessary community services in the area.

Finances neighborhood or community centers, youth centers , health stations and other public buildings to provide health, recreat.iona1 or similar social services e

Up to two-thirds of project cost or 75% in redevelopment a reas designated under the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 e

Long-term loans for construction of needed public facilities such as sewer or water facilities.

A variety of public works may be financed under this program. When aid is available from other Federal agencies, HUD assists only with those parts of the project not covered by other Federal programs.

Loan may be up to 40 years. It will be governed by applicant's ability to pay and by the estimated useful life of the proposed facility.

0

To assist cities undertaking local programs for the elimination and prevention of slums and blight, and the elimination of factors creating them. A long range effort to achieve better communities through planned redevelopment of deteriorated and deteriorating areas through partnership among local governments, private enterprise, citizens and the Federal Government e

Community-wi& renewal programs identifying needs and resources and establishing schedules and priorities for accomplishing the work; planning and carrying out urban renewal projects for rehabilitation and redevelopment of blighted areas; undertaking programs of concentrated code enforcement and demolition of buildings that a r e substandard and constitute a hazard to public health and welfare

1 I I I

Terms: Federal advances and loans Federal grants, local contributions. Grants generally pay up to two-thirds of net project cost; but may be as high as three-fourths. Local contributions may include cash or non-cash grants- in-aid., Also avaikible a r e special rehabilitation loans and grants, and housing assistance programs for low income , elderly, and handicapped individuals and families residing in project areas

Urban Planning Assistance Program

Purposes:

Specific Uses:

Terms:

To foster good community, metropolitan a rea , regional and statewide planning.

Preparation of comprehensive development plans, including planning for the provision of public facilities, transportation, long-range fiscal plans and programming and scheduling of capital improvements.

Federal grants of two-thirds of the cost of the work; local contribution of one-third. In some cases Federal grants may amount to as much as three-fourths.

Open Space Land and Ur,an Beautification Grants

Purposes: To assist communities in acquiring and developing land for open space uses and in carrying out urban beautification programs.

Specific Uses: scenic areas or preserve historic places. Urban

Provide parks and other recreation, conservation, and

beautification and improvement includes such activities as street landscaping, park improvements, t ree planting, and upgrading of malls and squares Relocation payments are provided for individuals families , and businesses displaced by land acquisition.

Terms: 50% to help public agencies acquire and preserve urban lands having value for park, recreation, scenic, or historic purposes. Where necessary to provide open- space in built-up urban areas , grants can cover up to 5 0% of the cost of acquiring and cP earing developed land. 50% is also available to assist in developing lands acquired under the open space land program, Grants up to 90% a r e authorized to car ry out projects of special value for demonstrating new and improved methods and materials for urban beautification.

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Solid Waste Disposal

Purposes:

Specific Uses:

Terms:

Law Enforcement Assistance

Purposes :

Specific Uses:

Terms:

Library Services and Construction

Purposes :

Specific Uses:

Financial Assistance for solid waste disposal projects.

Grants available for planning, constructing and operating disposal facilities and land acquisition.

To be determined.

Grants and technical assistance to develop the skills of the law officer.

Emphasis on improvement of techniques, and demonstratibn projects.

To be determined.

Grants to states to extend and improve library services . Financial assistance available to local public and non profit library agencies through the State Library for salaries, books, equipment, and construction.

Terms: To be determined.

Today, in most areas of municipal activity there are related State and Federal

* * *

programs which may be of local benefit. Also, new legislation is continually under consideration to broaden existing programs or initiate new ones. It will surely benefit the community to research these sources of assistance whenever local programs are contemplated.

The Housing Act of 1949, as amended, requires as a condition of certain financial assistance, the following:

I 1 1 1 I 1 1 1 8 1 1 I 1 I 1 1 1 I I

'' . . . a workable program for community improvement (which shall include an official plan of action, as it exists from time to time, for effectively.dea1- ing with the problem of urban slums and blight within the community and for the establishment and preservation of a well-planned community with well- organized environment fo:r adequate family life) for utilizing appropriate private and public resources to elimimte and prevent the development Or spread of slums znrl LrSa.n blight, to encourage needed urban rehabilitation, to provide for r..ed.reveiopment, of blighted, deteriorated, or slum a reas , or to undertake such of the aforesaid axtivities or other feasible community activities as may be e:ifk~bly employed to achieve the objectives of such a program. li

The specific requirrermnw of the workable program are based on the statutory objectives descr tDed sbo-fe 2nd z re designed to provide a flexible framework for organizing community efforts to dirnK&,=zte s9d prevent slums and blight. The workable program calls for F C O ~ Y ~ ~ S S J Q zhe following four areas:

1. Code Adoption and Enforcement. The adoption of housing, building, and related codes, and development of an effective code enforcement pr0gra.m which is at least a2equate to deal with areas having high priority need f u ; ~ e-&rx;nent,, ixluding both blighted areas and basically PO'UXJ b y t deteriolati