Blackwood Farm Master Plan - final report (adopted 3-3-2011)

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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011 recommended location for this facility would be forthcoming, using the 2007 Cool Jazz festival as a barometer. Staff will also test the decibel level for 1-40 traffic noise at the three spots, and looking at orientation toward the sun and handicap-accessibility. ❑ The primary parking for the park would be located off of a roundabout near the Parks Operation Base, and run north-south along the edge of the northeastern farm field. A future connection to the proposed service road would be available for special events or as needed. One spur from the roundabout would run north to a second parking area north of the pond and the north-central field. ❑ It is recommended that the northeastern field (south of the roundabout) be dedicated for use as a community garden, the details of which will need to be addressed in the future. ❑ Orange County currently has no education or nature centers. With much potential for education at this park, the Committee felt that this would be a good location for a Learning Center (i.e., educational facility). The proposed Learning Center would be located near the pond and wetlands, and also have an adjoining playground. The Learning Center is envisioned as a structure that could include hands-on exhibits about farm life, environmental education, energy use, historic resources, and a variety of other activities, with an indoor and outdoor classrooms and perhaps an office. ❑ An informal multi-purpose field would be provided for in the westernmost part of the site, along 1-40. This field would be open for a variety of uses. ❑ Pedestrian access is very important within the park. Some of the proposed activity centers require a substantial walk, necessitating careful planning of the trail network. The planned trails are primarily natural surface and connect the different components of the park or loop certain features (such as the pond or vista). Signage (interpretive and other) is suggested to make the trails a learning experience as well as recreational. The trail network should serve to discourage unnecessary driving within the site. External access (NC 86 pedestrian and bike access) is a concern and will need to be addressed with NCDOT, which has to date expressed concerns about any pedestrian access across NC 86. Also, bike lanes approaching the park would critical to encourage non-vehicular connectivity opportunities envisioned by the County. ❑ The potential for a mountain bike trail within the northwestern forested area is recommended for further exploration. There is also substantial road bicycle traffic along New Hope Church Road and this park would be an inviting destination and/or opportunity for a comfort stop. 15