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4.24 4.24 Master Plan—French Mountain Park—McPhillips Preserve—APPROVE-5-16-2022 RESOLUTION APPROVING MASTER PLAN REGARDING DEVELOPMENT OF "MCPHILLIPS PRESERVE AT FRENCH MOUNTAIN PARK" RESOLUTION NO.: ,2022 INTRODUCED BY: WHO MOVED ITS ADOPTION SECONDED BY: WHEREAS, by Resolution No.: 217,2019, the Queensbury Town Board expressed its support of the Town of Lake George's application to the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) for a grant under the Environmental Protection Fund at the French Mountain Preserve for the future shared park with the Town of Lake George and Lake George Land Conservancy, Inc., to be named the "McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain Park," and WHEREAS, the Town of Lake George developed a Master Plan for the potential McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain Park(Master Plan), and WHEREAS, by Resolution No.: 152, 2022, the Queensbury Town Board authorized and consented to the Lake George Town Board acting as Lead Agency for SEQRA review relative to the development and approval of the Master Plan, and WHEREAS, the Lake George Town Board, as SEQRA Lead Agency, conducted an environmental review of the Master Plan and by Resolution No.: 81-2022 determined that there would be no significant environmental impacts and issued a Negative Declaration and by Resolution No.: 82-2022, approved the Master Plan following a public hearing on May 91h, 2022 and receiving public input, and WHEREAS, the Queensbury Town Board has reviewed the Master Plan and finds that it is comprehensive, environmentally sound and beneficial for the Town and entire region as it will help increase recreational tourism, enhance public access to recreational facilities, preserve and protect French Mountain's natural resources and provide educational and interpretive opportunities,and WHEREAS, the Town Board wishes to accordingly express its support and approval of the Master Plan, NOW, THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED, that the Queensbury Town Board hereby expresses its support and approves the Master Plan for the potential McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain Park as described in the preambles of this Resolution, and BE IT FURTHER, RESOLVED, that the Town Board further authorizes and directs the Town Supervisor to provide a certified copy of this Resolution to the Town of Lake George and take any other actions necessary to effectuate the terms of this Resolution. Duly adopted this 16t'day of May, 2022, by the following vote: AYES NOES ABSENT: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUPPORT OF TOWN OF LAKE GEORGE AND/OR LAKE GEORGE LAND CONSERVANCY'S GRANT APPLICATIONS FOR FUTURE SHARED PARK TO BE KNOWN AS "MCPHILLIPS PRESERVE AT FRENCH MOUNTAIN" RESOLUTION NO.: 217,2019 INTRODUCED BY: Mr.Anthony Metivier WHO MOVED ITS ADOPTION SECONDED BY: Mr. George Ferone WHEREAS, by Resolution No.: 335,2018, the Queensbury Town Board authorized an Agreement with the Lake George Land Conservancy, Inc. (LGLC) providing for the Town's purchase of property bearing Tax Map No.: 265-1-28 in an effort to protect and preserve that portion of property in the French Mountain Preserve located in the Town of Queensbury, such property to be part of a future shared park with the Town of Lake George and LGLC likely to be named the"McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain" (Park Project), and WHEREAS, the Town of Lake George is applying to the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) for a grant under the Environmental Protection Fund for such Park Project and as part of such grant process, has engaged the services of consultants to help with preconstruction analysis/site planning, conceptual design work and the grant application work for a total cost of$15,000, and WHEREAS, the Town of Lake George will be the grant administrator should grant funds be awarded, and WHEREAS, the Town of Lake George has requested that the LGLC and Town of Queensbury, as equal stakeholders/partners in the Park Project, contribute equally toward the preconstruction analysis/site planning, conceptual design work and grant application work for the shared Park facility, with each party to contribute $5,000, and WHEREAS, the Town Board supports the preconstruction analysis/site planning, conceptual design work and grant application efforts toward the collective Park Project with the understanding that the Town of Lake George will be the grant administrator should grant funds be awarded, NOW, THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED, that the Queensbury Town Board hereby supports the Town of Lake George's application to the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) for a grant under the Environmental Protection Fund at the French Mountain Preserve for the future shared park with the Town of Lake George and Lake George Land Conservancy, Inc., likely to be named the McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain (Park Project) with the understanding that the Town of Lake George will be the grant administrator should grant funds be awarded, and BE IT FURTHER, RESOLVED, that the Town Board authorizes and directs a contribution of$5,000 to the Town of Lake George toward the preconstruction analysis/site planning, conceptual design work and grant application work as delineated in the preambles of this Resolution to be paid for from Account#: 001-8510-4400, and BE IT FURTHER, RESOLVED, that the Town Board further authorizes and directs the Town Budget Officer to take all actions needed to provide for the $5,000 expenditure including amendment of the Town Budget by decreasing the Town's Undesignated,Unappropriated General Fund Balance#001-0000- 0909 by$5,000 and increasing Account#001-8510-4400 by$5,000, and 2 BE IT FURTHER, RESOLVED, that the Town Board further authorizes and directs the Town Supervisor to execute any needed Agreement between the Town, Town of Lake George and/or the LGLC and/or any other needed documentation and the Town Supervisor, Town Counsel and/or Town Budget Officer to take such other and further actions necessary to effectuate the terms of this Resolution. Duly adopted this 17`h day of June, 2019,by the following vote: AYES Mr. Ferone,Mrs. Switzer, Mr. Strough,Mr. Metivier NOES None ABSENT: Mrs. Atherden 3 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CONSENT TO TOWN OF LAKE GEORGE BEING DESIGNATED AS LEAD AGENCY FOR PURPOSES OF FULFILLING SEQRA REQUIREMENTS RELATIVE TO POTENTIAL APPROVAL OF "MCPHILLIPS PRESERVE AT FRENCH MOUNTAIN PARK" MASTER PLAN RESOLUTION NO.: 152,2022 INTRODUCED BY: Mr. George Ferone WHO MOVED ITS ADOPTION SECONDED BY: Mr.Harrison Freer WHEREAS, by Resolution No.: 217,2019, the Queensbury Town Board expressed its support of the Town of Lake George's application to the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) for a grant under the Environmental Protection Fund at the French Mountain Preserve for the future shared park with the Town of Lake George and Lake George Land Conservancy, Inc., to be named the "McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain Park," and WHEREAS, the Town of Lake George has developed a Master Plan for the potential McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain Park (Master Plan) and will consider approval of such proposed Master Plan following a public hearing and public input, and WHEREAS, the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) regulations require that such proposed Master Plan undergo an environmental review in accordance with SEQRA before approval, and WHEREAS, under SEQRA, the Lake George Town Board and Queensbury Town Board are Involved Agencies for purposes of the environmental review needed before the Lake George Town Board can approve the Master Plan, and WHEREAS, the Lake George Town Board wishes to be Lead Agency and lead the necessary SEQRA environmental review of the proposed Master Plan approval in coordination with the Queensbury Town Board and therefore has requested that the Queensbury Town Board consent to the Lake George Town Board being designated as Lead Agency, and WHEREAS, the Queensbury Town Board has concluded that the Lake George Town Board is the most Involved Agency and should be Lead Agency for the purposes of SEQRA review relating to the Master Plan and therefore wishes to provide its consent, NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Queensbury Town Board hereby authorizes, directs and consents to the Town of Lake George acting as Lead Agency for SEQRA review relative to the development and approval of the Master Plan for the McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain Park and authorizes and directs the Town Supervisor to execute any necessary documentation related to this consent including any needed Lead Agency Response Form, and BE IT FURTHER, RESOLVED, that the Town Board finther authorizes and directs the Town Supervisor to provide a certified copy of this Resolution to the Town of Lake George and take any other actions necessary to effectuate the terms of this Resolution. Duly adopted this 181h day of April, 2022, by the following vote: AYES Mr. Metivier,Mr. Freer,Mr. Ferone, Mr. McNulty, Mr. Strough NOES None I,Karen A.O'Brien,Deputy Town Clerk of the Town of Queensbury,Warren County, New York,do hereby certify that I have compared t e foregoing with the ABSENT: None original resolution as listed above adopted at aG1 kcvZ meeting the Town Board of the Town of Queensbury held on the day of -�—. k 20 `LAt which a quorum was present and that the sane is a correct transcript therefrom and of the whole original thereof to date, IN 4NITNESS THEREOF,I have hereto set my hand and the SEAL of said Town of Queensbury,this lc,�}�day of . 1 SEAL SIGNEe- Karen A.O'Brien Deputy Town Clerk Town of Queensbury Resolution Declaring a Negative Declaration under SEQRA Review for the Proposed Approval of `McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain Master Plan' Resolution #81-2022 On a motion by Board member Crocitto, and seconded by Board member Stannard, WHEREAS, the Town Planning and Zoning staff along with input and assistance from the hired consultants, Town Board and the McPhillips Preserve (French Mountain Park) Committee have developed a Master Plan for the potential McPhillips Preserve (French Mountain Park) facility; and WHEREAS, the Town Board will be considering the approval (not adoption) of such Master Plan, following a duly scheduled public hearing and public input on May 9, 2022; and WHEREAS, the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR) regulations require that such proposed master plan approval undergo an environmental review in accordance with SEQR before they are approved by the Town Board; and WHEREAS, the Town Board determines that approval of the Master Plan (not adoption) would be an Unlisted action under SEQR and that the Town Board of Lake George and the Town Board of Queensbury are Involved Agencies for purposes of the environmental review needed before the Town Board can approve the Master Plan; and WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Lake George, located at 20 Old Post Road in Lake George, NY, has followed procedure pursuant to 6NYCRR 617.6, has requested consent from Queensbury for Lead Agency for the proposed Master Plan approval and has received consent and concurrence with that request; and WHEREAS, the Town of Lake George Town Board has reviewed the SEQR Short Environmental Assessment, which applies to the Master Plan, concluding that none of the criteria contained in 6CRR-NY 617.7(c) are going to be impacted by this proposed plan update, and determined that the proposed Master Plan approval has no significant adverse environmental impacts on any areas of environmental concern in the Town (which include but are not limited to changes to the air and water quality, deforestation and removal of habitats, creation of hazards to human health, change in the use of energy, change in intensity and type of land use, and conflict with a community's current adopted plans or goals); and WHEREAS, the Town of Lake George Town Board has, based on the environmental concerns identified and analyzed, affirmed a Negative Declaration for the proposed action due to the fact that the Master Plan identifies measures to protect air and water quality, preserve forested areas, create a new recreation facility for residents, does not conflict with the prior Comprehensive Plan; this Negative Declaration has been prepared in accordance with article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law; BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Lake George had declared itself Lead Agency for this Unlisted SEQR action of Approving the McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain Park Master Plan, in May of 2022, and affirms a Negative Declaration SEQR determination, with no significant environmental impact for the proposed action in the Town of Lake George. y , AYES: Hurley, Crocitto, Dickinson, Muratori, Stannard ' � NAYES: Nonetj 5 ABSENT: None `` Duly adopted on the following date: May 9, 2022 R 'N'gg STATE OF NEW YORK S.S: COUNTY OF Warren I, Patricia Schuster, Clerk of the Town of Lake George, New York, do hereby certify that I have compared the foregoing copy of the resolution with the original resolution of file in my office and that the same is a true and correct transcript of said original resolution and of the whole thereof as duly adopted by said Town Board at a meeting duly called and held at Lake George Town Hall on May 9, 2022 by the required necessary vote of the members to approved the resolution. WITNES , y hand and the official seal of the Town Clerk of the Town of Lake George, New York, the �&day of GZ C. 2022. Jelu')� C Patty•�chuster,Town Clerk STATE OF NEW YORK ) S.S: COUNTY OF Warren ) I, Patricia Schuster, Clerk of the Town of Lake George, New York, do hereby certify that I have compared the foregoing copy of the resolution with the original resolution of file in my office and that the same is a true and correct transcript of said original resolution and of the whole thereof as duly adopted by said Town Board at a meeting duly called and held at Lake George Town Hall on May 9, 2022 by the required necessary vote of the members to approved the resolution. WITNESS my hand and the official seal of the Town Clerk of th Town of Lake George, New York, the day of �L ,(,( 2022. �p Patty S•huster,Town Clerk Resolution of the Town Board of Lake George to Approve the 2022 `McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain Park Master Plan' Resolution #82-2022 On a motion by Board member Crocitto, and seconded by Board member Stannard, WHEREAS, the Town Planning and Zoning staff along with input and assistance from the hired consultants, Town Board and the McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain Park Committee have developed a Master Plan for the potential McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain Park facility; and WHEREAS, the Town Board sought public input on the Master Plan, the proposed park facility and the components of the facility, at a duly scheduled public hearing on May 9, 2022 at 5pm; and WHEREAS, the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEAR) regulations require that such proposed master plan approval undergo an environmental review in accordance with SEQR before they are approved by the Town Board; and WHEREAS, the Town Board determined that approval of the Master Plan (not adoption) was an Unlisted action under SEQR and following consent of the Town of Queensbury for Lead Agency, and; and following procedure pursuant to 6NYCRR 617 the Town Board affirmed a Negative Declaration for the proposed action due to the fact that the Master Plan identifies measures to protect air and water quality, preserve forested areas, create a new recreation facility for residents, does not conflict with the prior Comprehensive Plan; this Negative Declaration has been prepared in accordance with article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law; WHEREAS, the Town Board feels that the Master Plan is well developed and comprehensive in nature and supports an environmentally sound and beneficial project for the Town of Lake George to enhance recreational facilities and accessibility in the region, increase recreational tourism, and to preserve and protect the land on French Mountain while providing for educational and interpretive opportunity regarding the protected natural resources on site; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Lake George fully supports the McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain Park project and Master plan, with authority granted to the Town Board through Town and State law, hereby approve the McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain Park Master plan, to be utilized as the Town's guiding document for the future development of the park facility. AYES: Hurley, Crocitto, Dickinson, Muratori, Stannard NAYES: None ABSENT: None Duly adopted on the following date: May 9, 2022 !v ix any-" � .►+. C�v.,� ta� 4x.+�, �� - •. � srt .� �: �� � �. ' ' �.�,,aa,•�+e T,i�l���; e A a t .•!+a. ��:. x.�., � ��. '�� �� :'fie �� ''� r t MA�� FY �,��,. at IN ".. y,urF,,.iL+T.�T.�" k � .k,-.*+•'`�' .� '. �'?-"""'k ''� t.}r,�� �� ri, t .�:. ., ,,. ' gy,,' _x k_ , ^r tiii 1." �"@, , ^� i•iy ;f#' :. i� 'fz ,F r _ ` i-r a"•" " r �'i 1 � �''° _ , , VI >• f - W s� � f a5:w Y a i L� .�J' ,._ � Mgt•�G��.�jy�' .t` � 9 �r�, i tyS—c Is ` <�'�`''; �-''�'°'�".�- ,� ! ;,,.,mod •_ - ' * - _ 71 , •"as, y .+-n„ D,!'. #, a a_ ZIP�'�rf 1 + ,� t •l,. .s, a _-fps r�-p t 4i w. Y.• .� n+• , µ� s 7 , t z Z' , 9 -1,7 Si YA 5 1;4 1- 7'w J, yi ."..F.'"- �+ ,�� f.x � :IS � -5 _ r ,��. -�' ��a-�e}w*4�`5:e.,,9;.A' ,r �t� �-���,*`r'��- 7 kw -��-mjr.7-1, A I ze-P,I 1-`3 tmP V-� qi L'��rtt !'4A� Or ADMORY COAAMUEE PROJECT PARTNERS Dan Barusch Town 7 -7 0 --take- e K-9 Katie Bruening Dennis Dickinson Monica Dore On Steve Lovering A LaBella Company Town of Jim Martino (Luimnsbury David Matthews LAKE GEORGE Marisa Muratori L AN 1) 0 N S E RVA N Alexander Novick John Strough Mike Varney r W - - _ 3 4 , 1 a This plan was created for the development of the McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain, located in the Towns of Lake George and Queensbury.The Towns, in coordination with the Lake George Land Conservancy envision the preserve to contain a series of hiking trails, a complex of single-track mountain biking trails, and an outdoor education component. The contents of this plan detail final design and permitting phases related to site access,trail design, and supporting amenities, including parking, outdoor meeting space, and signage. The future vision for the preserve is intended to advance conservation efforts within the Lake George watershed, provide a needed recreational amenity and further conservation-based education, particularly among student groups. Once fully developed, it is envisioned that the preserve will link with the Lake George school campus,as well as the Hamlet of Lake George, provide a much-needed center of activity,thereby increasing visitation and encourage spending and investments,and foster a greater awareness about the importance conservation. PROJECT LOCAT90N The McPhillips Preserve is located coniferous and deciduous trees. The northern and southeastern partially in the Town of Lake There is an open field at the base of portions of the site contain George and partially in the Town the property near its road access. tributaries(stream designation 830- of Queensbury,Warren County. The site is visible from County Route 430)of East brook which ultimately The site is 334.2 acres and can be 59, Bloody Pond Road. discharge into Lake George.The accessed by Bloody Pond Road in East brook wetlands are located the Town of Lake George. Site access In terms of topography,the overall adjacent to and within 1,000 feet of is directly adjacent to the Lake site has gentle to moderate slopes the site,while Lake George is located George Land Conservancy's(LGLQ ranging from 0 to 41 percent.Site 3/of a mile north of the site.Stream East Brook Preserve, on the opposite elevations range from approximately designation 830-430 of the site is side of Bloody Pond Road.The East 420 feet about mean sea level(MSL) classified by the NYS Department of Brook Preserve borders the Lake to 1,500 feet MSL.The site generally Environmental Conservation(DEC) George Elementary School campus, slopes westward, except for the as AA-S.The AA classification is which will provide easy access southeastern portion,which slopes assigned to waters used as a source for educational and recreational eastward. of drinking water. opportunities at the McPhillips Preserve. Surrounding properties include residential, private forest, i sir,•>c J 1Ahr GEORGE r and vacant lands(See Appendix A, Figures 1 and 3). �- NY�C.'AK�L+EOFJGr s - S O H E SURVEY i, Ei SCTL�tELU(��4K f is y 4 A topographic survey for the proposed access, parking, and kiosks was completed by the Chazen Companies during the duration of '. ), r ;: FRENCH MOUNTAIN this project.The surveyed area was �;_ FROTECTI010-ko cT roughly 3.5 acres.The topographic 31TACRES' survey includes relevant existing conditions,such as driveway access, structures visible at the ground surface,the edge of woods lines, ,: 7,'-EPRESERMT E g i 16....{.' PRESERVE roads, drives,and visible utilities. ! The topography extends 25 feet into F ,l ? (` LOQAMN: the woods from the existing clearing �- (See Appendix Q. i The site currently has no existing 3_ LAKE 0- EORGE structures,and the land cover ' LAND C,'ON SERVANC Y is mostly forested with a mix of _.,.; P4 C.nr,12CD 1 4&05 Lake:94urt;,T 1 B+'dinlz811<lin 144 1383+1 15L 2-6f=-967? 1 ;v 4C.nr ..1.i N:.: ,>_..m..___�:�,...`.>.........�..._.._..:.�.:.s:-a..t...,..s.%:.�...s.....:...:._�.:_.._..-...._..a_,_...�..:';.:..�_ ..a.. _ _�.�.. �"_.."_:s�i APA LAND USE Based on Warren County's real property data, land uses ,`. surrounding the site are primarily private forest, residential and ° vacant. The site is located in the Land Conservation -25, Residential s.; = Medium- 1,and Residential •' Ate , 5 � High-Density districts of the Town , of Lake George and the Land ' Conservation - 10 district of the Town of Queensbury(Figure 5). Most of the site is located r' within the Land Conservation Districts. In the Town of Lake George,the purpose of Land Conservation districts is defined H O STO RO C AND (East Shore Drive).The speed limit �� on this roadway is 40 mph.The as protect physical and biological ARCHAEOLOGOCAL resources","promote efficient posted speed limit in the hamlet of forest management and recreation RESOURCES Indian Lake is 35 mph.According opportunities",and"preserve A review of the information available to NYSDOT,Annual Average Daily the open space character of the on the OPRHP CRIS system indicates Traffic(AADT)counts along this road Town". In the Town of Queensbury that there are pre-contact and are 635. Land Conservation districts are historic sites located within a one- described to"encompass areas mile radius of the project area. AN+ ALYSpS OF SHE where land has serious physical Based on this information,the site CONSTRAONTS limitations to development or underwent a Phase 1 A Literature Most of the existing characteristics unique characteristics that warrant Search and Sensitivity Assessment of the site, including soil type, restricting development to very low and a Phase 1 B Archaeological Field vegetative cover,and topography densities. It is also an area that adds Reconnaissance Survey(Appendix are favorable to the development to the Town's rural character and D). Further consultation with the of trails and recreational facilities, should also be protected as such". State Historic Preservation Office There are certain characteristics Additionally, most of the site is will be conducted as part of the of the site that may need to be located within the Adirondack State Environmental Quality Review taken into consideration when Park Agency's(APA) Rural Use Application(SEQRA)for the project. determining specific uses,design designation. Small portions of the or permitting of the site such as the site are also designated Hamlet `RANSPOR AT90N AND precautions necessary in working and Moderate Intensity by the CORCULATUON in an Archeological Sensitive Area. APA. Should the Town develop the The site is located and is accessed Also, due to the steep slope in many property they would need to adhere from the east side of County Route areas of the site, proper erosion and to all applicable APA guidelines 59(Bloody Pond Road),which sediment control will need to be (height restrictions,wetlands, is controlled by Warren County. taken to mitigate potential runoff. etc.).The Town would also need to The single-lane roadway travels Stormwater runoff should also be acquire building permits. Municipal in a north to south direction, considered in the overall use and actions do not need site plan connecting State Routes 9 and 9L maintenance of the site. approval. p During the first two weeks of July of purposes. Preliminary concepts suited for hiking and passive 2020, 12 stakeholders were solicited of hiking trails, mountain biking activities such as walking,trail for their input and 8 responded. trails and an educational pavilion running,snowshoeing,or cross- Stakeholders were asked a series were well received.While most of country skiing. It was mentioned of questions related to the usage, the feedback was favorable one that because of its proximity to the access,and logistical operations of stakeholder noted that steep and Village of Lake George this could be the McPhillips Preserve site. Overall, ridged areas of the property may a popular tourist destination. stakeholders provided valuable need additional work or may not be Finally,this site was noted to have insight regarding the opportunities suitable for trails. the potential to offer environmental and challenges that may be found education opportunities such in preparing the site for public Some stakeholders noted that as natural trails with engaging use. Stakeholders agreed that the preserve has the potential to signage, an active water quality the preserve will be beneficial to offer significant opportunities for protection display, or an outdoor the Town of Lake George and the mountain bikers. Such trails could pavilion for naturalists'lectures. regional area.The following provides be used by individuals or as an Some stakeholders suggested that a summary of their input in regards accessory to events such as the partnerships with the Lake George to usage,access and logistical Lake George Triathlon. Mountain Elementary School,the Lake George operations of the preserve. biking has proved to have growing Association and SUNY ADK could popularity,stakeholders noted the enhance these uses and provide USAGE growth of similar facilities such as programming for the space. It was Most stakeholders found that this Gurney Lane. noted that naturalist programming site is best suited for recreational is often popular among families and environmental educational In addition,the preserve is well visiting the region who may not have y. t d 701'5 fY� . . ;,£ experience or interest in hiking or ATV'.r'+.. - other forms of outdoor recreation. The majority of stakeholders noted that this site is extremely accessible with frontage on Bloody Pond Road. Along with its readily accessible location, many stakeholders noted that the size and design of the parking lot would be key to ` accessing the site. L S s 5� t 3y( 3+�`• In anticipation of the preserve's popularity, some stakeholders were concerned that the trailhead and 'fie, ss' e 4 tie 4 ~ � _ ggg �� s } _� E ,�.1. t7 _i.,,�l-Xiy'r"wt _.�, i S{f�k}'"�'.y,", �^r t � „ y d ,-� `' „�,�F'W - -• ur �s A7. w � �.4,,� r` a4-C + y✓i. - A e' t {x ,�" c__ L - - G e. k,'iz'^` 'F :c t..5•,a S5 4,�. "f _ ✓. t£�i_ _Y1 ,y ''"z tr s+^: -t.: "�'z. a.�- = ,_ .. - � �+ r � � � �` � •K ss,��- v �,,�^a •F,ti ,. �'=��" �' <.;�r�ytny`'is'�.+c- ,f a 1 � _ '.q•- - � � �, ,- kit 1 $ .�*,r.,�,F ,, ",�� R�R '�'�.a+�. 1. R a :�.r. �� - z -, - .^ '� -_ems',� �,Zv:`,• the parking lot could easily become could provide links to and from the With multiple uses being held on overused or crowded if not built to Warren County bikeway. one site,a few stakeholders noted size. Stakeholders noted locations that signage will be extremely such as the Pinnacle and Pilot Knob LOGISTOC AL important in developing the as testaments to how busy the trails ®P E RAV 8 O N S preserve.Signage will not only be can become. In regards to how the site will be beneficial for wayfinding on the trail logistically operated stakeholders but for differentiating biking trails One stakeholder specifically noted were primarily concerned with or from walking trails and ensuring that that it may be beneficial to provide commented on parking, bathroom motorized vehicles are not used if parking for one or two buses as this facilities,signage, and environmental prohibited. would benefit school or conference protection features. groups. Finally,as many of the stakeholders As mentioned previously, many intend for the preserve to be used Another stakeholder noted that stakeholders noted that determining by outdoor recreationists and proper signage around the property the size and design of the parking environmental enthusiasts it was may be necessary as the site and/ lot as key to making this project commented that the preserve or surrounding areas have been successful. Some stakeholders noted should feature some sort of historically accessed for hunting and that if possible, it may be beneficial infrastructure that demonstrates AV recreation uses. to have bathroom facilities on-site; conservation initiatives such as especially if the site has multiple permeable pavement,stormwater Stakeholders who are interested in uses and can host groups in an collection, or compostable bathroom the mountain biking opportunities educational pavilion. facilities. commented that this preserve _ H- t n. L� I� - Yy- _ `i`n.Y p 6,. ' a v`tsf C =MSR �K.A � .alx i, •_'sC•—r�("J d,4iT a..�. n' ^.? �- J �l•.'`,3.-j` � '�} � �C.I Via. 'ION F U TJJ RE CONSERVATOON Considering the needs for watershed OUTDOOR EDUCA`90N The McPhillips Preserve will serve protection in Lake George, and FACOLOTHES to protect essential lands that are the value of conserving a tract of Towards the trail head,but sheltered part of French Mountain. French land that contains part of a major from public view,there will be a new Mountain,an environmentally mountain range,these 317 acres are outdoor classroom facility for the sensitive area,with undeveloped already working to provide benefit local school districts to utilize during mature forest, provides a beautiful to the community.The project visits to teach students about the natural and scenic landscape, and an advances municipal and community interworking of the watershed,as ecological safe haven for many flora planning initiatives by implementing well as the ecological habitat for and fauna in the area. Conservation recommendations from the flora and fauna in the area. Outdoor of these acres would not only Comprehensive Plan(s)and other classrooms provide numerous support an increase in air quality recreational studies. Community benefits to students and to the and habitat protection, but also an ownership and stewardship for the community at large,and would be additional recreational opportunity local recreational resources would a great central component of any for residents and visitors to the also improve as the park would grant application.The classroom area,which has been long overdue. improve access to new mountain itself would be a structure to shield As a natural,water-absorbing, biking facilities, and it would provide students from the elements(such storm resilient property,the land a unique, accessible and interactive as the one shown in the photo on provides watershed protection open space, adding value to the following page), and could be from the mountainside to the lake. residential properties. % AGs-y,s accompanied by a community garden,displays and other O �' ate a x . � _ ,� . ' . ��� educational materials. The outdoor classroom will also � E s,' S � �� a� yINN ' !' provide opportunities for local r z , + and regional organizations such as M ,Y rY�.wYt r a .+„t the Lake George Association,the y _r ; _; - s r P., Lake George Land Conservancy, ".- y-� ' NJ the Cornell Cooperative Extension and others to program the space with various educational talks or - demonstrations for all ages. t The Lake George Elementary School can easily access the McPhillips Preserve through the LGLC's East Brook Preserve,which borders their campus on the north side of Bloody Pond Road. ` RAM H ETWO RKS With the help of the Town Planning Additionally,school districts will Throughout the park,trails for Departments,the Warren County easily be able to access the preserve all different levels of users would Safe&Quality Bicycling Organization by bus and have access to restroom meander through the forest, (WCSQBO),and possibly landscape facilities during their visit. Facility excellent for running, dog walking, architects or similar consulting plans can be found in Appendix E. a lunch time stretch, or nature hike firms hired through grant funding, with the family or classroom. the Towns of Lake George and Queensbury will be able to come up with a comprehensive plan for a trails network to accommodate all types of users.This would include trails for hiking,as well as walking and mountain biking. It is assumed that several miles worth of trails could be incorporated into this park, H,,.H , eventually bringing users back down u*:rr::u:rt to the trailhead, or connecting at the °'°E top,to the Top of the World trails in :::U,,,T .-eEcKp.;;h7 llm1 PE-r;;,,1[E the Town of Queensbury. -E%ISTIP0.;;;r.cue T•t.IL T+E=7'nll-1H C.>: Md rF ,-M T VAE', ...r +A�; _TE r TD e'-3'9N. _R S'JFF ui 6=tE;Lo=E ,ACTH L',-?E=S.,HE-E 74EE 'l c<,1•:L'�E`,17 TJ Ert EE:0.2 Eu,PE E f s a TM r, u;mc:. I•+ tT-Cx:OE Ii:7sEd e.ITH Throughout the trails network would -;, i. ,% r c rgr.U.i.E a_t:ullnEv tE711.'rt tin,. TTO-'LE JrLc seal be amenities for all users including i rE u t i -u elnE -" n T EY EE')i.'+':.i THE T9.:L :E ,. _ E a�F'� E numerous seating areas with ..- � FEE tF EETTI ---. `E 15 Ea<.A:-TET v C Fr benches made from site-sourced _,Et ,✓-S J EF .:K FILL H �.+TiE1E,. �tr\ -FF 'TEf�V E7.ATi FF J w' L Ja 'E':F T"E•U lumber, interpretive signage based ` on a plethora of things(such as flora and fauna),as well as some possible hydrologic features such as stream FULL BEAJCH SIDEHILL CROSS SECTION X"M NOT TCF.'" ponding.Stream ponding and stream bank restoration/stabil - ----- THE CHALEN COMPANIES 8 ization could increase the water Finally, towards the top of the would lead directly into the park quality of the intermittent mountain,would be a "viewing from which visitors could follow streams flowing down French point"where mountain bike riders walking/hiking trails that would Mountain, as well as provide for a and other users of the trails network be complemented by interpretive fresh new habitat for aquatic species could view the lake, take photos, signage, or follow the mountain and aesthetically pleasing sights and take a break from their exercise. biking trails up the mountain range. along the trails. Where streams This viewing point,which would be may exist, and crossings need to be located in the Town of Queensbury, Access and parking concept plans made,the park could utilize existing would not be accompanied by a for the preserve can be found in the site-sources lumber to also create structure, ratherjust an open area attached Appendix E. Adirondack-style bridges. with some seating. While the walking and hiking trails Trail design standards for mountain would be primarily located on the biking and hiking, developed by parcels of land within the Town of Wilderness Property Management, Lake George, it is expected that can be found in the attached many mountain biking trails would Appendix F. be located throughout the entire park, specifically on the parcel of The trail network is depicted on the land in the Town of Queensbury. following page. As the topography of the land gets steeper, the further up the ACCESS AND PARKON➢G mountainside you travel, there The park would have a westerly would be more intermediate and access point, in the Town of Lake advanced level mountain bike trails, George off of Bloody Pond Road. as well as some basic level ones that At this location, a welcoming park would meander from side to side - sign, a parking lot and a trail head - with the contour of the land. 4Fez �., �Y ,.. .h/�` � � �:�" b� 5'. �_•%l,I.Rya _ ® .;6' ,{ - >�1: ' 777 777 BLOODY POND AOAO io-"4 t ---r> •; �, r; .•• �' r+- / 4. t - 's I �. t te� t k �: _ _ F :. 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':t � � '_ k �f�i-S�' --,'' ^..: � \• �•'ii ki�c�s.�'c Tr.ac N_' �'�2r� �:-� .ti'�t � � .�' •'y soorneo.aa won can�n.t F ``1M��`�� ry "a,„ "�F'":� `:• To Warren County�'Bikeway ��T: � ' :�.,-';•�'+��.Fr"y �� � �;,� Y } _..41 �•t';Y t ,,. .�. - ,` - •f `.- t, •;< '�mz' c3A •°v 1 ti. '[urarook P:e:era - t 4 D�vPM1 r "t I'7 \ f p�' '.1 6 1 - b{� � � ��'D f y �l*,,`: �%�-� Y .i 7 _t b:.., .._.•MCPY�Ps Pro>eno - . 4r �� tw'� ��rn� : - ./-__ ' -___. �.,•^+ fZ,S ° ;� � i. �` ?- S � �'• �` s - t` t �-h �a LakoGeo•paScnool0�shkrProPorrY .-I LAKE G E 0 R G E Tonn '; "\ McPhillips Preserve at French Mountain Proposed Trail Network &Site Improvements i_.� n C(.)VLRv.A\Cy Lake+George fZ•u nal u} CHAZEN PROJECT NO:91904.07 07.22.19 Town of Lake George&Town of Queensbury.New York " 10 ]HE cHIAzcwCOMPANIES NEXT STEPS AND �� ms��to �ndio�the Tmw nfLakeGenr� ������������ �V����������������� // should also monitor a wide variety ofgrant This plan is intended to provide a planning level ana��is oPPo�un�ies.This rnayinclude outreach toelected ' of�cia| andfedera| andstatea�enciesthatnversee and pre|irninaryrev|evvof building requirernents.These variou�fundin�pro�ranms TheTovxnshou|dstron�|y reconlnmendationscan assist the Tovvnof Lake George, ' and its partners, in developing a recreational facility and consider applying for funding from Environmental Park Faci|it|esandtheRecreationa|Tnai/sPro�rann Both in providing desired programming.The materials found ' in the Appendices provide greater detail regarding of these opportunities are available through the NYS construction and permitting. Consolidated Funding Application. Often fundin�a�endestaheanitenativeapproach VV|threspect to potential pa/�ners'thereis ' projectproject.dear|ya desire for collaboration annongthose that to supporting apr^« 'This includes supporting the desi�nef���sfirst and the construction efforts second. Re�ard/essoftheapproach [heTownshou|da|so recreation within the region,there nnaybeother ' seek|e11ersofsuppor1frnnnpo�entia| partnecsand if partners that are interested,asvve||. K4ovingforward, ' possible even furtherconnnnitnnen�s�uthe p �ect(e� theTovvnofLakeGeo��ep|anstocuntinueanon�oin� ' '`v ' ` pro�rarnnnin�andevents vvi||in�nesstoenterintoan dialogue vviththese interested parties tonnonitortheir ' agreement, estimated financial support,etc) APPENDIX A SITE RECONNAISSANCE