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2 40 <br /> This Interim Report is being presented at this time to both the Orange and Durham boards of <br /> commissioners for review and approval. The report presents committee recommendations of <br /> what uses should and should not be allowed in the Little River Regional Park and Natural Area. <br /> The recommendations are provided in three categories: <br /> a) allowed uses (hiking trails, picnic area, hard surface loop trail, playground, etc.); <br /> b) conditional uses (horseback riding, mountain biking, group camping); and <br /> c) prohibited uses (motorized vehicles, hunting, firearms). <br /> After the two counties agree on the park uses, the next step would have the counties develop a <br /> conceptual plan for park facilities. As proposed, the concept plan would be presented to the <br /> Orange and Durham boards of commissioners (Fall 2001) for consideration and approval, <br /> followed by development of a site plan in December 2001. Construction would occur in Spring <br /> 2002, and the park might be open to the public by August, 2002. <br /> Action on the proposed park uses is needed to ensure that the following steps occur <br /> prior to the September 2002 close-out date for the park development grant from the U.S. <br /> Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). <br /> FINANCIAL IMPACT: Funding for park development comes from a $262,000 grant awarded <br /> from the LWCF (to be used by September 2002). However, some of the proposed uses would <br /> require future expenditures of County funds for park management and stewardship (primarily <br /> oversight of potential horseback and mountain bike trails), which are as yet unbudgeted by <br /> either County. <br /> RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board : <br /> • Discuss and agree to the set of proposed uses for the Little River Park and Natural Area as <br /> recommended by the advisory committee, with revisions or changes as needed; and <br /> • Authorize ERCD and the Recreation and Parks staff to proceed with soliciting bids for a <br /> contractor to develop a concept plan for the proposed park facilities (funded through the <br /> LWCF grant mentioned above); and <br /> • Authorize ERCD and Recreation and Parks staff to work with Durham County to develop a <br /> draft interlocal agreement for park management and use, for the Board's review and <br /> decision at a future meeting. <br />