JULY 2001 What’s Inside: Roadside Reflections . . . . 2 A Corridor Management Plan Is . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Off the Shelf . . . . . . . . . .4 Florida’s Byways Convene First State Conference . . . 5 Driving the Byways . . . . . 7 Turning Dreams Into Reality . . . . . . . . . . .8 Partnering Includes the Public . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Research Corner . . . . . . .10 Published in cooperation with the Federal Highway Administration by: America’s Byways Resource Center Arrowhead Regional Development Commission 227 West First Street Suite 610 Duluth, MN 55802 1-800-4BYWAYS, Ext. 5 SIDEBAR: REGISTER TODAY! AMERICA’S BYWAYS: CELEBRATING THE JOURNEY 2001 National Scenic Byways Conference August 26-29, 2001 Hilton Portland Hotel Portland, Oregon 2001 National Scenic Byways Conference August 26-29, 2001 Hilton Portland Hotel Portland, Oregon AMERICA’S BYWAYS: CELEBRATING THE JOURNEY REGISTRATIONS ACCEPTED THROUGH AUGUST 10 Conference Excitement Revs Up Registration is in full swing for the 2001 National Scenic Byways Conference opening on Sunday, August 26 in Portland, Oregon. More than 400 byways supporters, organizers and officials will converge on the Hilton Portland Hotel to share information, experience and expertise. Presented by America’s Byways Resource Center and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the bi-annual conference offers a variety of informative workshops, hands-on sessions and networking opportunities. Topics range from experts and innovators in scenic byways management tools and Web site development to new research programs and funding resources. “Marketing, corridor management planning and interpretation programs seem especially popular this year,” said Associate Director Michelle Johnson, “But all of the sessions offer fresh and relevant ideas.” The Resource Center gathered input from byways representatives to determine popular subject areas. Then the Resource Center invited some of the country’s leading experts and innovators in scenic conservation, organization development, technology and funding, among other topics, to lead the sessions. PHOTO: Vista House on Crown Point along the Columbia River Gorge. Intensive Sunday Workshops Scheduled “We’re really excited about Sunday afternoon’s Intensive Workshops,” said Johnson. A series of six concurrent workshops from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. will allow participants to concentrate on a specific area. The Intensive Workshops include: • Finding Your Funding • Using and Expanding Your Marketing Tool Kit • Economics, Partnerships and Your Byway Community • Traveling Gracefully: Interpreting Scenic Byways • Context Sensitive Design in the Real World • Places & Spaces for Peds & Pedalers The special pre-conference Interpretive Planning workshop in Bend, Oregon, on August 24-26 will also add depth to the learning experience. “We’re going to tour some of Oregon’s most spectacular byways and use them as our classrooms,” commented Lisa Brochu, an internationally recognized interpretation specialist and guest speaker. Five nationally designated byways are within an hour’s drive from Bend. On Friday, participants take a four- hour tour along the McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass National Scenic Byway. Participants choose one of three tours for Saturday, including the Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway, Volcanic Legacy All-American Road and Outback National Scenic Byway. Go Mobile At The Conference In addition to the mobile pre-conference workshops, Conference participants will hit the road on Tuesday to explore the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area (CRGNSA). Eight concurrent workshops focus on a specific issue: • Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area • Landscape • Historic • Visitor facilities and interpretation • Engineering • Tourism • Recreation • Byways “Participants select the mobile workshop that best fits their interest area,” said Jeanette Kloos, Oregon Department of Transportation/Conference Mobile Workshop Coordinator. “The CRGNSA byways illustrate the many different aspects of byway management and reinforce the learning experience first-hand.” Pat Moran, also from the Oregon DOT and a co-chair of the Conference Host Committee, is especially pleased with the variety of tours available. “We’re fortunate to have so many magnificent byways right here with experts who can explain the issues and success stories behind them,” he added. Host Committee Recognition “We’re pleased to be hosting the conference. The diversity of landscapes here, from urban to wilderness, makes this an excellent location for byway representatives to explore many issues,” said Judy Lorenzo, a Conference Host Committee cochair from the Washington State Department of Transportation. “I consider it an honor to [be cochair of the Host Committee] and to invite the byway community to my neighborhood. I hope people will take time to explore the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and All-American Roads and National Scenic Byways here.” She and the other Host Committee members have neatly integrated the region’s resources as part of the conference experience. In addition to the tours, for example, the group organized an evening dinner at the Oregon Zoo. “The Host Committee deserves recognition for their hard work,” said Gary Tonkin, Director for America’s Byways Resource Center. “The team there paved the way for an interesting and fun experience.” Tonkin also noted that EWE-ME & Company, a Portland-based meeting and event planning company, assisted with on-site preparations because of the enormity of this year’s conference. “This is going to be a worthwhile conference for anyone involved with byways,” he commented. Share Your Opinion Reauthorization Sound-Off At National Conference What do you think about the National Scenic Byways Program so far? Where should the program go in the next six years? Share your suggestions during a “sound-off” meeting with Rob Draper, Director for the FHWA National Scenic Byways Program. The Reauthorization Sound-Off session (Session 3E) is scheduled from 1:15 to 2:45 p.m. on Monday. Draper encourages participants to talk with FHWA folks anytime. “I look forward to the National Conference,” said Draper. “Everyone continuously shares ideas and experiences during the sessions, walking around the exhibits, and while relaxing. I can’t wait.” George Schoener, Director of FHWA’s Office of Metropolitan Planning and Programs, will host the Town Meeting on Wednesday morning, an open question-and-discussion period for all conference participants on any topic. Sponsors Enhance The Experience Valued Supporters Make A Difference Without support from sponsors and exhibitors, the National Conference wouldn’t be the same. These valued organizations and businesses add to the event’s excitement. Sponsors include the US Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA Forest Service, Washington Heritage Corridors Program, MacTech Systems, Washington State Tourism Office, Oregon Tourism Commission, Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau, Otak Inc., Storeyco Inc., David Evans and Associates, and Parametrix. Thank you to our sponsors! Stroll The Exhibits Register For Door Prizes When you stroll through the exhibits and displays inside The Hilton Portland Hotel Grand Ballroom, be sure to register for door prizes. A schedule of door prize drawings will be posted too. You’ll also want to catch the Popcorn Reception, Monday, 4:30 – 6:00 p.m. Take time to visit with the Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau, CANUSA, CarTours, CH2M HILL, Environmental Solutions, National Association for Interpretation, Parametrix, Shive-Hattery, Inc., National Transportation Enhancements Clearinghouse, Noel Designs, MacTech Systems, Northwest Interpretive Association, USDA Forest Service, US Fish and Wildlife, and Washington State Scenic Byways. AASHTO Awards Highlights Wednesday Luncheon Also Hear “The Road Beckons: Best Practices For Byways” John Horsley, Executive Director for the American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO), will speak about best practices for byways during Wednesday’s luncheon. He’ll also help present this year’s AASHTO awards recognizing outstanding byway projects. For more information about the awards, see AASHTO’s Web site at www.transportation.org. Stuck On The Web? Schedule Your One-On-One Web Workout The Utah State University Web site team will maintain an on-site computer lab for one-on-one tutorials during the conference. A sign-up sheet will be posted at Registration and outside the Workout Room at the Hilton Portland Hotel. Don’t miss this hands-on experience with the experts! SIDEBAR: AMERICA’S BYWAYS: CELEBRATING THE JOURNEY 2001 National Scenic Byways Conference August 26-29, 2001 Hilton Portland Hotel Portland, Oregon Register on-line at www.byways.org! Registration questions? Email register@eweme.com or call (503) 244-4320. For hotel reservations, call 1-800-HILTONS (1-800-445-8667) or go to www.hilton.com/hotels/PDXPHHH. REGISTRATIONS ACCEPTED THROUGH AUGUST 10 Roadside Reflections by Gary Tonkin, Director PHOTO: Gary Tonkin, Resource Center Director You may have noticed there have been a number of articles recently discussing a new way of designing roadways called Context-Sensitive Design (CSD). This new design method works toward fitting a roadway more appropriately into its surrounding environment. Scenic byways almost always travel through sensitive areas—scenic, historic, cultural or natural. This certainly makes Context-Sensitive Design the preferred design method. However, designing by this technique can be much easier said than done. Highway and bridge designers must consider many factors as they assemble the pieces that make up a modern travel corridor. State Departments of Transportation are responsible for the safe and efficient movement of not only individuals, but also the goods and services that are so critical to our economy. Will eliminating a planned expansion of a road- way cause congestion in the corridor? Will keeping a picturesque curve instead of straightening it cause future accidents and loss of life? Engineers wrestle with tough questions such as these as they weigh the need to preserve the scenic byway’s landscape. Five states have joined an effort by the American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO) in an all-out effort to educate their Departments of Transportation on the elements of incorporating the Context-Sensitive Design process. What started in Maryland in 1997 now encompasses the first five begun by AASHTO plus a number of additional states. CSD requires an entirely new way of thinking about design. It’s not just an added step in the existing design process, but an innovative and broader perspective that includes community participation from the get-go. I encourage byway organizations to communicate early and often with their state DOTs. Include district or regional engineers and planners in your organization so they better understand your vision for the corridor. Open communication can also help byways understand the DOT’s responsibility for safety and traffic movement in the corridor. Working together can advance a Context-Sensitive Design that is also safe and efficient. SCHEDULE OVERVIEW Sunday, August 26, 2001 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Conference Registration Desk Open 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Opening Welcoming Session 2:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Exhibits Open 2:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Refreshment & Snack Break 2:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Session 1- Intensive Workshops Six Concurrent Sessions 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Opening Dinner Reception “Taste of the Pacific Northwest” Sponsored by the US Fish and Wildlife Service Monday, August 27, 2001 7:00 a.m. Conference Registration Desk Open 6:30 a.m.- 8:30 a.m. Buffet Breakfast 6:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Exhibits Open 7:00 a.m.-8:30 a.m. State Coordinators Meeting 7:00 a.m.-8:30 a.m. Byways Meetings 8:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. Opening General Session - Welcome & Keynote Speaker: Tom Bodett A radio commentator, author and columnist, Tom Bodett brings a gentle wit and charm to storytelling. We’re proud to welcome him as our keynote speaker. 10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Refreshment Break and Exhibits Sponsored by the Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau 10:30 a.m.-12:00 noon Session 2 - Concurrent Sessions 12:00 noon-1:00 p.m. Luncheon 1:15 p.m.-2:45 p.m. Session 3 - Concurrent Sessions 2:45 p.m.-3:15 p.m. Refreshment & Snack Break 3:15 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Session 4 - Concurrent Sessions 4:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Popcorn Reception Sponsored by Otak, Inc. (Exhibit Hall) 6:30 p.m.-11:00 p.m. Dinner Event @ Oregon Zoo Tuesday, August 28, 2001 7:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Conference Registration Desk Open 7:00 a.m.-8:30 a.m. Buffet Breakfast 8:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m. General Session – Welcome to the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Congressman Earl Blumenauer (invited) “Eight Ways (and then some) to See One Spectacular Place” Presentation: Jeanette Kloos, ODOT 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Session 5 - Concurrent Sessions Mobile Workshops (8 itineraries) 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Meet the Speakers Reception Evening Free-Time Dinner is on your own Wednesday, August 29, 2001 7:30 a.m.- 8:30 a.m. Buffet Breakfast 8:00 a.m.-9:20 a.m. Session 6 - Early Bird Workshops 8:30 a.m.-9:20 a.m. Session 6 - Concurrent Session 9:30 a.m.-10:20 a.m. Session 7 - Concurrent Sessions 10:30 a.m.-12:00 noon Town Meeting George Schoener, Director-Office of Metropolitan Planning and Programs, Federal Highway Administration 12:00 noon-2:00 p.m. AASHTO Awards Luncheon “The Road Beckons: Best Practices for Byways” John Horsley, Executive Director, AASHTO 2:00 p.m. Conference Adjourns CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FEES Registration Fee: $295 Byway Leader, Marketing Contact or State Coordinator*: $195 One Day Only: $100/day (*Applies to designated National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads Only) BEND PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOP August 24-26, 2001 Inn Of The Seventh Mountain For hotel reservations, please call 1-800-452-6810 or via e-mail at www.7thmtn.com 2001 National Scenic Byways Conference August 26-29, 2001 Hilton Portland Hotel Portland, Oregon AMERICA’S BYWAYS: CELEBRATING THE JOURNEY REGISTRATIONS ACCEPTED THROUGH AUGUST 10 Register on-line at www.byways.org! Registration questions? Email register@eweme.com or call (503) 244-4320. For hotel reservations, call 1-800-HILTONS (1-800-445-8667) or go to www.hilton.com/hotels/PDXPHHH. REGISTER TODAY! A Corridor Management Plan Is... Note: This is part of a continuing series of articles by the Federal Highway Administration about the nomination of roads as National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads. As each article is published, FHWA is posting it on the nomination section of www.byways.org. So, you are planning to nominate your byway for possible designation as a National Scenic Byway or All-American Road by Norman Mineta, U.S. Secretary of Transportation. The Federal Highway Administration has announced the call for nominations. The memorandum announcing the call and other information you need are available in the nomination section of FHWA’s scenic byways Web site, www.byways.org. The complete nomination package is available for you to enter your information about your byway on-line. Nominations are due January 22, 2002, to the FHWA division office for the respective state where the byway is located. Anyone may nominate a road for possible designation as a National Scenic Byway or All-American Road, but the nomination must be submitted through a state’s identified scenic byway agency. Most states likely will require that your nomination be submitted to the state department of transportation or scenic byway agency earlier than January 22. State scenic byway coordinators should email their deadlines to FHWA (pete@byways.org), and we will add this information to the nomination schedule on www.byways.org. Why Prepare a Corridor Management Plan? Well, the plan is a prerequisite for national designation. Four of 41 roads nominated for designated in 2000 were not considered because they did not have a complete corridor management plan. A few people may view the plan as just another box to check when preparing a byway’s nomination. To others, the corridor management plan is: • the vision for the byway and the surrounding area as formed collectively by communities along the byway • an inventory of the characteristics, features and resources associated with the byway’s intrinsic qualities • documentation of the significance of the byway’s intrinsic qualities • a summary of how the intrinsic qualities will be interpreted in order to stir the interest and imagination of visitors • summation of the goals and strategies for promoting the byway, enhancing and preserving the intrinsic qualities, and ensuring the continuity of the visitor’s experience FHWA’s Interim Policy states that the corridor management plan for a National Scenic Byway must include 14 items, plus 3 more if the plan is for an All-American Road (see inset on page 4). It also is important to note what the corridor management plan is not. It is not a FHWA plan or document. And, it does not supersede state or local land use and transportation plans and requirements. The corridor management plan should complement other plans for the area. Byway representatives should look to local land use and transportation plans and initiatives as means for helping achieve the goals and objectives for the byway. Development of your byway’s corridor management plan is as much about the process as it is the product. On a recent monthly byway conference call, Ruth Hawkins (Crowley’s Ridge National Scenic Byway) said, “We prepared our corridor management plan at the local level. We did not use an outside consultant. It was important that we did it ourselves. We involved all of the communities along the byway. We formed a common vision. We got buy-in, support and ownership for the byway. It has made our byway organization stronger and Crowley’s Ridge a better byway.” SIDEBAR: A corridor management plan, developed with community involvement, must be prepared for the scenic byway corridor proposed for national designation. It should provide for the conservation and enhancement of the byway’s intrinsic qualities as well as the promotion of tourism and economic development. The plan should provide an effective management strategy to balance these concerns while providing for the users’ enjoyment of the byway. The corridor management plan is very important to the designation process as it provides an understanding of how a road or highway possesses characteristics vital for designation as a National Scenic Byway or an All-American Road. Federal Highway Administration Interim Policy for National Scenic Byways Program, Subsection 9.a. May 18, 1995 Can You Rely on Existing Plans and Documents Rather than Prepare a Stand Alone Corridor Management Plan? Yes. FHWA has accepted existing plans and documents in lieu of a separate corridor management plan for a byway. You will need to ensure that these plans and documents include information required for the corridor management plan. When preparing your nomination, you will be asked to identify the principle pages in your document that discuss each item required by FHWA’s Interim Policy. Some points may warrant special attention, such as plans to assure on-going public participation in the implementation of corridor management objectives. Community involvement in other plans and documents for the areas may not necessarily translate into community support for the byway or its nomination for national designation. Community support is essential for a byway’s nomination for national designation. What If You Just Are Starting to Work on Your Byway’s Corridor Management Plan? Most of your work on the corridor management plan should be well behind you. We’re hesitant to say it’s too late to start, but it may be. Is there strong, wide support for the byway among communities along the byway? Is there a core group of people who are sharing the work for guiding the byway, carrying out projects and other activities, and helping prepare the nomination for possible national designation? If the answer to these questions is “yes,” then you should be in good shape for finishing the plan and preparing your byway’s nomination for possible national designation by Secretary Mineta.  SIDEBAR: Off the Shelf Leadership Skills: Developing Volunteers for Organizational Success by Emily Kittle Morrison Paperback, 223 pp. ISBN 1-55561-006-8 ($17.95) Published by Fisher Books, Tucson, AZ (December 1994) Byway organizations depend on lots of volunteer power to accomplish their goals and objectives. This book provides basic information on strength- ening leadership skills and building volunteer organiza- tions. Easy-to-use forms and worksheets are included. The book covers a wide range of topics, including problem solving, board skills, meetings, conflict management, publicity, group communication, delega- tion and motivation. The guide is packed full of valu- able information that would be useful to any volunteer or non-profit group. Available through your local or on-line bookstore. The corridor management plan must include at least the following: 1) A map identifying the corridor boundaries and the location of intrinsic qualities and different land uses within the corridor. 2) An assessment of such intrinsic qualities and of their context. 3) A strategy for maintaining and enhancing those intrinsic qualities. The level of protection for different parts of a National Scenic Byway or All-American Road can vary, with the highest level of protection afforded those parts which most reflect their intrinsic values. All nationally recognized scenic byways should, however, be maintained with particularly high standards, not only for travelers’ safety and comfort, but also for preserving the highest levels of visual integrity and attractiveness. 4) A schedule and a listing of all agency, group and individual responsibilities in the implementa- tion of the corridor management plan, and a description of enforcement and review mecha- nisms, including a schedule for the continuing review of how well those responsibilities are being met. 5) A strategy describing how existing development might be enhanced and new development might be accommodated while still preserving the intrinsic qualities of the corridor. This can be done through design review, and such land management techniques as zoning, easements and economic incentives. 6) A plan to assure on-going public participation in the implementation of corridor management objectives. 7) A general review of the road’s or highway’s safety and accident record to identify any correctable faults in highway design, mainte- nance or operation. 8) A plan to accommodate commerce while maintaining a safe and efficient level of highway service, including convenient user facilities. 9) A demonstration that intru- sions on the visitor experience have been minimized to the extent feasible, and a plan for making improvements to enhance that experience. 10) A demonstration of compli- ance with all existing local, State and Federal laws on the control of outdoor advertising. 11) A signage plan that demon- strates how the State will insure and make the number and place- ment of signs more supportive of the visitor experience. 12) A narrative describing how the National Scenic Byway will be positioned for marketing. 13) A discussion of design stan- dards relating to any proposed modification of the roadway. This discussion should include an evaluation of how the proposed changes may affect the intrinsic qualities of the byway corridor. 14) A description of plans to interpret the significant resources of the scenic byway. In addition to the information identified above, corridor man- agement plans for All-American Roads must include: 1) A narrative on how the All-American Road would be promoted, interpreted and marketed in order to attract travelers, especially those from other countries. The agencies responsible for these activities should be identified. 2) A plan to encourage the accommodation of increased tourism, if this is projected. Some demonstration that the roadway, lodging and dining facilities, roadside rest areas, and other tourist necessities will be adequate for the number of visitors induced by the byway’s designation as an All-American Road. 3) A plan for addressing multi- lingual information needs. Further, there must be a demonstration of the extent to which enforcement mechanisms are being implemented in accordance with the corridor management plan. Federal Highway Administration Interim Policy for National Scenic Byways Program, Subsections 9.a. & b. May 18, 1995 Florida Byways Convene First State Conference PHOTO: In small working groups, byway representatives were asked to identify goals, opportunities, ideas and barriers for the Florida Scenic Highways Program. The recommendations will be included in a conference report and action plan. “ The scenic byways program is saving Florida. It is preserving our unique character. With globalization and sprawl, the difference between places is starting to disappear. You can’t tell the difference anymore [between one city and the next]. The scenic byway program allows you to preserve the character of your community for all those who follow you,” said Al Haheed, byway advocate. He gave voice to the passion and commitment that are clearly evident in the Florida Scenic Highways Program. Over 80 byway representatives met on May 29-30, 2001 in Orlando for Florida’s first statewide scenic highways workshop. Their objective was to discuss ways to make the state program more successful and share insights on corridor issues. The jam-packed conference included presentations on: • Organizing a Corridor Advocacy Group (CAG) or Corridor Management Entity (CME) • Techniques for Public Involvement • Partnering for Success • Creative Fundraising • Securing a FHWA Grant • Developing a Master Plan • Community Involvement and Benefits PHOTO: The A1A River & Sea Trail on Florida’s Atlantic coast is one of seven designated state scenic highways. Several other byways are pursuing designation. The A1A byway has brought new attention to efforts to revive and renovate Marineland (on left), the world’s first oceanarium. Established in 1938, the park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Buddy Cunill, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), heads up the state program that is built on a solid grass-roots foundation. In addition, eight district state scenic highways coordinators offer assistance to local communities. Cunill stresses the importance of strong local byway organizations, “Without them we wouldn’t have a program. We would just have signs on the road. There is a common message coming from the corridor representatives on the benefits of the program related to preservation of resources and the balance required to obtain this. They realize the importance of partnering to accomplish these ends.” A stringent designation process guarantees that the CAGs are organized to maintain momentum, foster community support and develop the documentation supporting the highway corridor’s designation as a Florida Scenic Highway. A CAG (or CME) is Florida’s term for a local byway organization. State designation is a step-by-step process divided into three phases: 1) Eligibility 2) Designation 3) Implementation The State has developed a detailed Program Manual to guide candidates through the process. 1. Eligibility In the Eligibility Phase, applicants form a Corridor Advocacy Group (CAG) to complete an Eligibility Application. The Florida Department of Transportation uses the information in this package to determine whether it’s probable that the corridor will meet the criteria and requirements for designation. The documentation details the merits of the intrinsic resources, the corridor vision and community support. 2. Designation Following eligibility, the CAG begins the Designation Phase by preparing a Corridor Management Plan (CMP). This plan specifies the operational procedures, protection techniques and standards/regulations by which the corridor will be managed and enhanced. If it is determined that the CMP satisfies all Program process requirements, designation is granted. Susan King, FDOT, serves as the byway leader for the Tamiami Trail Scenic Highway (a National Scenic Byway). King sees the planning process as a way to bring groups with related interests together. “We realized there were lots of agencies with their own plans, such as the Army Corps of Engineers and the National Park Service. Our CMP tried to encompass the other plans. It also provided an opportunity for all of us to work together on common goals.” Al Hadeed echoed the importance of the planning process. “The biggest benefit of the program is not the grants (money), but the planning that results from participation in the program through the Corridor Management Plan.” 3. Implementation Finally, the protection, promotion, enhancement and management techniques outlined in the CMP are put into action during the Implementation Phase. The byway organizations continue to be responsible for monitoring the corridor, annual reports and CMP updates. There’s a lot of hard work required to become part of the Florida Scenic Highways Program, but the end result has been extensive community support, new partnerships, effective byway organizations and a successful program that is one of the strongest in the country. Those folks who are involved with Florida byways talk about the value of state process, “Scenic byways has empowered our community. The program is a lot more than a means to an end. The byway has become a connecting link, an integrator, for the whole area. We were working on something that hadn’t been done before. Once we identified our goals, we sought out people and organizations that were interested in the same things as us. The efforts started to snowball.” Buddy Cunill praises the work of the local byway organizations. “The mission of the program is well understood and accepted. It shows through the energy and enthusiasm of the corridor representatives. The program is being implemented by the local organizations themselves, as was the intent!” For more information on the Florida Scenic Highways Program visit www.dot.state.fl.us/emo.  Driving the Byways White Mountain Trail in New Hampshire Byway Length: 108 miles (173 km), Circular route Designations: State Byway: January, 1995 National Byway: 1998 Highlights 7 Covered Bridges, 32 Scenic Outlooks, Roadside Waterfalls, Historic and Interpretive Sites, Modern Visitor Center Trail Tour: The Trail is a loop that incorporates varying topography, mountain and river views, a variety of vegetation areas from ledge to wetland and woodland, 18th and 19th century buildings and historic sites, and some of the grandest scenery in the eastern United States. The Trail begins at the White Mountain Visitor Center in North Woodstock, and follows Route 3 north to I-93 Franconia Notch Parkway from Lincoln. This latter stretch includes Franconia Notch State Park, the Flume and the Old Man of the Mountain, a natural stone profile and the symbol of New Hampshire. PHOTO: Bemis Bridge to the Davis Path. The Trail continues eastward on Route 3 to Twin Mountain where it joins Route 302 East, which travels past the historic Mount Washington Hotel, one of the last Grand Hotels. As the White Mountain Trail passes through Crawford Notch to Bartlett, visitors encounter: • Scenic overlooks • Frankenstein Trestle, which carried early locomotives to various tourist destinations • Site of the historic Willy Slide • Abandoned logging towns that flourished at the turn of the century • Beautiful waterfalls • Old growth forests • Trailheads for popular hikes, ranging from short, easy walks to wilderness adventures • Twenty 4000-foot summits accessible from various places along the Trail In Bartlett, travelers can choose from two routes. The shorter route, open for vehicles only from late spring to late fall, heads south over Bear Notch Road to the Kancamagus Highway that affords breathtaking views of Crawford Notch. Winter adventurers on snowshoes or cross-country skis will find that the road provides a spectacular opportunity to see these views in a pristine, snow- covered setting. The longer route follows Route 302 East to Glen, where it joins with Route 16 South. Route 16 passes through Intervale, which was a Mecca for early artists. Then the route continues south through North Conway, a favorite destination for shoppers. Just south of Conway, Route 16 intersects with the Kancamagus Highway, named for an American Indian Chief who pursued peaceful co-existence with the early settlers. The roadway traverses the White Mountain National Forest, climbing to nearly 3000 feet and providing dramatic views. Visitors find opportunities along its length for hiking, rock climbing, kayaking and swimming. Stunning overlooks are especially popular in the fall leaf season. The highway runs for 35 miles west back to Lincoln, completing the White Mountain Trail’s loop. This entire byway can be completed in a day and is an experience to long remember. PHOTO: Old Man of the Mountain, a natural stone profile, towers near the Trail. Projects: The White Mountain Gateway Center in Woodstock: The Timber Framers Guild has agreed to do a barn raising in May 2002. White Mountain Attractions is coordinating with the National Forest Service to provide all the timber for the project. A portable saw mill would be set up on-site to mill the lumber. A video will be produced to record all the events, including the timber harvest, milling and barn raising. The new center will use the video as an interpretive display. Bemis Bridge: The first North American asymmetrical cable stay suspension bridge was completed in February 2001. The 168-foot bridge provides pedestrian access to the Davis Path, a popular hiking trail along the White Mountain National Byway. It crosses the Saco River. Organization: Currently, the White Mountain National Byway organizational structure consists of an unincorporated group of dedicated individuals from state agencies, the regional planning commission, town representatives and citizens at large. One of the main short-term objectives is to form a 501(c) 3 incorporated organization. This may be accomplished in 2002. For more information, contact: Dick Hamilton New Hampshire Scenic Byways Council P.O. Box 10 200 Kancamagus Highway North Woodstock, N.H. 03262  Turning Dreams Into Reality Ideas for Creative Fundraising The Lagoon House is a big dream that is becoming a reality, thanks to a committed Florida byway organization, a clear vision and goals, perseverance and some creative fundraising. Over one million dollars have already been raised to help build a multi-purpose facility that will serve as an interpretive center, environmental learning center, historical museum and demonstration project for innovative environmental design. Lagoon House will be situated on a site donated by the City of Palm Bay along Florida U.S. Highway 1. Ted Moorhead, Indian River Lagoon Scenic Highway (IRLSH), described the project, “In developing our Corridor Management Plan, we had to decide whether to include gaps (and segment out the blighted areas) or make a continuous loop (even though some of the areas were not scenic). Our challenge is to bring all these areas up to standard. We’re hopeful that the building will leverage improvement in the whole area and serve as a catalyst for needed redevelopment and renovation.” Representatives from the Indian River Lagoon Scenic Byway shared their successful fundraising strategies at the recent Florida Scenic Highways Conference: 1. Clearly define the purpose of the project. What needs will the project serve? How does the project further the goals, objectives, strategies and action plans of your Corridor Management Plan and the goals of potential funding sources? 2. Identify potential funding sources: federal, state, local government, foundations or individuals (cash or in-kind contributions bequests). Sometimes you can “back into a project” by first identifying the interests of a funding source and then finding a project that meets the qualifications and criteria of the funding source. For example, if your state’s Department of Transportation offers beautification grants, find a section of your corridor that needs beautification and submit a grant application. 3. Research the requirements for matching funds. Determine what qualifies as a match, such as in-kind donations or property values. Include everything that “counts” in figuring your match. If possible, go beyond the required match, since some grant reviewers like to see indications of a high level of commitment of the grantee. 4. Mix and match funding sources. Go after multiple sources of grants for a project, realizing that some grants may fallout and you may need other funds to complete a project. “Bundle” grants together, using several as a match for another. For example, Lagoon House has received funding from the National Scenic Byways Program ($800,000), the Florida Department of Transportation or FDOT ($100,000) and the Florida Inland Navigational District ($100,000). The only match coming from the City of Palm Bay was the property. There were also in-kind contributions including a graphic rendering, elevation and cost estimates, and volunteer labor. PHOTO: "If a picture is worth a thousand words, this drawing is worth $1,100, 000," said Ted Moorhead, Indian River Lagoon Scenic Highway. AJT Associates, Inc. of Cape Canaveral created and contributed this graphic rendition of the proposed Lagoon House. Moorhead explained, “It helps people catch the vision of what we were trying to do and has helped us raise over a million dollars so far.” 5. Invite several corridor entities to collaborate on a project. This demonstrates unity and a spirit of cooperation in the corridor, and may enable you to do linear projects that would otherwise be impossible. In the IRLSH, a recent FDOT beautification grant application was written by the Marine Resources Council for the City of Palm Bay and Brevard County. 6. If you don’t get funds from one source, go to another or regroup for next year. Lagoon House had a line item appropriation in the state budget that was vetoed. Even though that source was lost, the funding work gave the project recognition and momentum and encouraged the City to go after other sources. When IRLSH was designated a state scenic highway, the City was in a position to apply for funding from the National Scenic Byways Program and the Florida Inland Navigational District. The package was completed without the state appropriation. 7. Tailor each application to explain how your project fits the objectives of the specific funding source. The key is to “hit the hot button” of the funding source. For the National Scenic Byways grant application, Lagoon House was an interpretive center for the byway. For the Florida Inland Navigational District, it was an environmental learning center. For potential historical museum grants, it is a historical museum. In reality, it will be all three. 8. Tell people what you are working on. The Lagoon House received a $97,000 bequest from a family who formerly owned a motel on the site. The unsolicited donation will be used for exhibits and furniture. Media stories and local publicity made the donors aware of the project. 9. A picture is worth a thousand words. Show people what you are working on. Photos, drawings and models will help people “catch the vision” of what you are trying to accomplish. For more information, contact:: Ted Moorhead Moorhead Associates Inc. (321) 723-2031 Rochelle W. Lawandales Lawandales Planning Associates (321) 757-3197 Brad Smith Brad Smith Associates (321) 724-1036 Note: Although these strategies worked for the Indian River Lagoon Scenic Byway, they may not all work for you. Do you have your own success stories to share? To include them in Vistas, contact the America’s Byways Resource Center at 800-429-9297, ext. 5 or center@byways.org. Partnering Includes the Public PHOTO: Participants at the Florida Scenic Highways Conference learned about developing a Community Participation Plan (CPP). The nature of public participation has changed. In the past, citizens attended public meetings expecting to listen to formal presentations. Today, citizens attend public meetings expecting open deliberation, interaction and participation. Local support and involvement is key to successful byway projects and initiatives. In Florida, there is heightened sensitivity about public participation. The state’s Government-in-the Sunshine law provides a right of access to governmental proceedings at both state and local levels. The Sunshine Law requires that meetings of boards and commissions must be open to the public, reasonable notice of meetings must be given, and that meeting minutes must be taken. The law also restricts conversations (formal or casual) between two or more members of the same board or committee to discuss matters that would require action by a public board or committee. Florida byway representatives work hard to make sure their efforts include the entire community. How can you insure a broad spectrum of public participation? David Carr (Old Florida Heritage Highway), Rochelle W. Lawandales, AICP (Indian River Lagoon Scenic Highway), and Elizabeth Holloway (Overseas Heritage Trail) shared techniques for public involvement at the recent Florida Scenic Highways Conference. Lawandales explained, “The byway program starts and ends with the public. You must have the right tools to work with the community. You hold the key to unlock what you want for your byway and your area, by actively engaging and partnering with the public.” Here are some of their ideas: • Keep local media informed (newspapers, radio, TV, public TV). • Schedule appointments with the editorial staff at the local paper. • Identify “what’s in it for the locals.” Think about how the byway will address concerns and interests of local citizens. • Secure support for your public meetings from a local university. It adds credibility to your work. • Make sure your Corridor Advocacy Group (CAG) has representation from the entire community. • Up front, assuage fears that the Federal government is not trying to take over local government efforts or private individual’s rights or land. • Improve the byway for bicyclists. This really draws support from biking enthusiasts. • Involve special interest groups who have similar goals. Focus on the intrinsic qualities and resources they are most interested in (history, nature, scenery, hiking, boating, wildflowers, etc.). • Staff a booth at a local festival to talk with community members. If there is no local festival, start one! • Distribute information through a variety of means. Use Internet and e-mail to send news. • Get on the agenda for each city and county government in your area to keep them informed. Ask for their participation and representation on the Corridor Advisory Group. • Form a Speaker’s Bureau and prepare presentation materials. • Focus on the “what” and target the “who.” • Never conceal anything from the public. They mistrust things they associate with the government to start with, and withholding information only increases that mistrust. • Find people who are directly and indirectly interested in what you are doing and form partnerships or coalitions through common goals. • Hold public meetings in a variety of areas–libraries, environmental learning centers, museums, or schools. Choose places that are accessible and near the public, as well as facilities that have a mutual interest in your pursuits. • Obtain letters supporting your designation. Assemble signed petitions. Have resolutions and ordinances adopted by the local governments, along with policies and regulations in land use plans and codes. Include any (and all) documentation showing broad-based local support for your efforts. • Conduct public surveys. • Ask local or special interest groups to work on the scenic highway “story” in their area. • Recruit volunteers to compile a video, documentation or presentation materials. This stimulates their interest and gets them involved “The Indian River Lagoon Scenic Highway’s success stems directly from the degree of support gained through a strong grass-roots effort, coupled with public and private leadership. Good stewardship of our resources means involving all the stakeholders. Remember that ‘partnering includes the public.’ In this way, you can proceed through eligibility, designation, implementation and success!” stated Lawandales. Research Corner Community Analysis of the Windshield Experience Using Resident Employed Photography H. Gregory Hawkins, Matthew Garrett and Margaret Riley Jim Self Center on the Future Strom Thurmond Institute, Clemson University “A picture is worth a thousand words.” A community planning approach called Resident Employed Photography (REP) attempts to better integrate community values into the planning process by visually identifying common ground among diverse stakeholders. This Clemson University report available at www.strom.clemson.edu/ publications/hawkins/ashleyriver.pdf presents findings of the REP process as used to assist preparation of Ashley River Road’s Corridor Management Plan and application for national scenic byway status (granted June 2000). Thirty-six local participants took 481 photos representing aspects of the 11-mile Ashley River Road environment and the surrounding community that they “liked” or “disliked.” Private landowners, subdivision residents, neighborhood associations, historic site and attraction employees, preservationists, members of the State Scenic River Advisory Council, and the Ashley River Conservation Coalition contributed images. Photographs were organized around themes that this group had earlier identified during a series of focus groups: • History: Preservation of historic character along Ashley River Road (ARR) • Traffic: Controlling/reducing traffic along AAR • Recreation: Creating/improving recreational access to resources along the road and river • Property Rights: Protection of private property rights • Safety: Increasing safety along ARR • Aesthetics: Protection of aesthetic qualities within the ARR corridor • Nature: Protection of natural qualities within the ARR corridor PHOTO: The ambiance created by the overhanging (and often historic) live oaks lining the Ashley River Road are an important feature to be protected. The photo log captured ranking information (typically on a 7-point scale), plus commentary: how well the image was liked or disliked, importance of the associated theme, and evaluation of the scene. Based on scores, photographs were placed into the following Community Values Interpretive Model (CVIM) (see Diagram A, page 11). The boxes are interpreted as follows: Protection means residents value (i.e. like) a feature or attribute, and it should be maintained. If it is the absence of a feature that is desirable (i.e. like) [e.g. an inappropriate entrance, paving a certain segment, incompatible development], any alteration of that condition should be prevented. Conversely, if the lack of a certain characteristic is problematic (i.e. dislike), promotion of the condition is preferred [e.g. trees, buildings with unique character, concealed power lines]. Finally, remedies can be prescribed where existing traits are disliked. Aesthetics was the most frequently addressed theme based on number of photographs taken. The themes with the highest evaluation scores were history and property, while traffic and aesthetics had the lowest average scores. The latter two themes also showed the greatest difference between their importance and evaluation scores, indicating they are of greatest concern in corridor management planning. History, nature and property themes are seen by community members as doing well and worthy of protection. The recreation theme is seen as lacking. Traffic and safety are most often in need of “fixing.” More specifics are provided in the summary CVIM matrix (see Diagram B). A CVIM matrix was also prepared for each theme. This research and planning methodology is appropriate at many stages of corridor management, not just prior to designation. In this case, the “camera project” was created as Charleston’s sprawl threatened the historic district. In the end, it documented areas of agreement, mitigated hostility (those opposed to the CMP took part), and the coalition adopted proactive means for maintaining the physical qualities of the Ashley River Road corridor. Contact the authors at (864) 656-0217 or greg@strom.clemson.edu for further information. Note that the forthcoming scenic conservation manual prepared by Scenic America under contract to the National Scenic Byways Resource Center addresses many of the “how-to” issues emergent from this work. FIGURE: Community Values Interpretive Model Diagram A: FEATURE PRESENT Dislike IV. Prescribe III. Promote Like I. Protect II. Prevent FEATURE ABSENT Diagram B FEATURE PRESENT Dislike IV. Prescribe: speed problems, commercial traffic flow, poor/too many signs, visibility of cell towers and utilities, sprawl, pollution/litter III. Promote: better tree canopy protection strategies, effective/ opaque vegetative buffers, turning lanes, adequate zoning, pedestrian/bike paths, recreation crossings, speed controls. Like I. Protect: appropriate entrances, effective setbacks/buffers, tree canopy, green space, freedom of property owners, historic places II. Prevent: excessive/distasteful development, loss of nature FEATURE ABSENT Coming & Going Good-bye: Christina Lilienthal, mover- and-shaker par excellence on the Volcanic Legacy All- American Road, has moved on to a new position as Landscape Architect on the Umpqua National Forest out of Roseburg, Oregon. As expected given her passion for byways, she’s working with the Rogue-Umpqua State Scenic Byway. Her updated contact information: phone: 541-957-3358; e-mail: clilienthal@fs.fed.us. She hopes to see many of you at the national conference in Portland. Research Corner Update In the April issue of Vistas, a Research Corner article profiled a preliminary study on traveler perceptions of two byway corridors, a Mn/DOT funded project. Recently, the Technical Advisory Panel for this work met to refine the summer 2001 follow-up survey research. Based on emergent issues from the focus group research, a questionnaire was developed for distribution to travelers along approximately 12 road segments in Minnesota. Most are byways, and the sample will represent differing natural elements, varying shoulder widths and several Mn/DOT regions. In addition to trip purpose, travel behavior and demographic variables, there are a series of agree/dis- agree statements regarding various corridor attributes and perceptions (e.g. safety, services, driver behavior, vegetation, pullouts, interpretation, conges- tion, road design, billboards, access to recreation, and litter). Also, respondents can indicate preferences for various policy and experiential options, as well as report the importance of various roadside traits and whether desired benefits were attained. Minnesota State Scenic Byway Coordinator Mark Anderson said, “The project is a means to develop a transportation agenda for the Minnesota tourism industry so that they can participate effectively in transportation planning and project design activities.” Nationally, the research offers a model for studying pleasure travelers, and as different stud- ies can replicate questions, helps to build a body of knowledge about byway visitors. Dr. Lisa Love, Research Coordinator with the University of Minnesota Tourism Center, is directing the research. She can be reached at 612-624-2736 or llove@umn.edu if you are interested in the questionnaire or study design. More informa- tion is available at the UM Tourism Center Web site at www.tourism.umn.edu/zResCurr. 2001 Calendar Send calendar entries by the 5th of each month to center@byways.org JULY July 20-22, 2001 “Remember the Route” 75th Anniversary Festival of Route 66 Albuquerque, New Mexico For more information, please call: (800) 284-2282 or www.r66nm.org July 22-25, 2001 The Times They Are A Changing: Working Partnerships for Viable Communities 2001 International Summit on Community & Rural Development Duluth, Minnesota www.minnsotaruralpartners.org July 27-28, 2001 Balancing the Protection and Promotion of Historic Roads Rocky Gap Lodge and Golf Resort Cumberland, Maryland Scott Zimmerman or Becky Lawin (765) 478-3172 or HLFIERO@infocom.com AUGUST August 1, 2001 Conference Call for Byway Leaders America’s Byways Resource Center For more information, please call: (800) 429-9297, ext. 5 or mjohnson@byways.org August 17-21, 2001 7th Conference on National and Scenic Trails Radisson Hotel Conference Center Casper, Wyoming NATTRAILS@aol.com or (608) 249-7870 August 24-25, 2001 Interpretation: A Pre-Conference Workshop National Scenic Byways Program Bend, Oregon For more information, please call (503) 244-4320 or byways@eweme.com August 26-29, 2001 National Scenic Byways Conference Portland, Oregon For more information, please call (503) 244-4320 or byways@eweme.com SEPTEMBER September 5-7, 2001 Context Sensitive Highway Design: Transferring Lessons From Our Collective Experiences Workshop Holiday Inn-Park side Missoula, Montana Contact Meetings Northwest at (406) 273-7224 Or CSDworkshop@meetingsnorthwest.com September 5-8, 2001 Investing Natural Capital in Urban Places: A Green Revenue Stream for Metro America 2001 National Urban Forest Conference Washington, D.C. Contact Kasey Russell at (304) 345-7578 or kaseyryssel@citynet.net September 5, 2001 Conference Call for Byway Leaders America’s Byways Resource Center For more information, please call: (800) 429-9297, ext. 5 or mjohnson@byways.org September 6-8, 2001 Restoration & Renovation The Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans New Orleans, Louisiana For more information, please call: (978) 664-6455 or info@restoremedia.com September 7, 2001 Dedication of the Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway and the Re-dedication of Cody Peak Shoshone Lodge and Pahaska Tepee (at the pullout) For more information, please call Paul Hoffman at (307) 587-2777 or www.codychamber.org September 11-12, 2001 State Bicycle & Pedestrian Program Managers Annual Meeting Hotel Captain Cook Anchorage, Alaska For more information, please call: Bob Laurie at (907) 465-6989 September 13-14, 2001 Alaska Bicycle and Pedestrian Summit Hotel Captain Cook Anchorage, Alaska For more information, please call: Bob Laurie at (907) 465-6989 September 13-16, 2001 Rail – Volution 2001, A Conference on Building Sustainable Communities San Francisco, California For more information, please call: (800) 788-7077 or www.railvolution.com September 20-21, 2001 Preserve Minnesota, the 22nd Annual Statewide Historic Preservation Conference The State Historic Preservation Office of the Minnesota Historical Society Glenwood, Minnesota For more information, please call: (651) 296-5434 or www.mnhs.org September 25-26, 2001 Transportation Enhancements Professionals Seminar St. Louis, Missouri For more information, please call; NETC at (888) 388-6832 September 26-29, 2001 Trail Link 2001: The 3rd International Trails and Greenways Conference Sponsored by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy St. Louis, Missouri For more information, please call; Doretha Williams at (202) 974-5152 or www.railstrails.org September 29-October 2, 2001 Land Trust Rally 2001 Sponsored by the Land Trust Alliance Baltimore, Maryland For more information, please call: (202) 638-4725 or rally@lta.org OCTOBER October 3, 2001 Conference Call for Byway Leaders America’s Byways Resource Center For more information, please call: (800) 429-9297, ext. 5 or mjohnson@byways.org October 3-6, 2001 The National Recreation and Park Association’s Annual Congress & Exposition Denver, Colorado For more information, please call: (703) 858-2158 or congress@NRPA.org October 8-9, 2001 Rural Economic Development Through Tourism (REDTT) Annual Conference Cloudcroft, New Mexico For more information, please call: Charlene Selbee, Program Coordinator at (505) 8924178 or cccselbee@yahoo.com wwwnmquest.org October 16-21, 2001 National Trust For Historic Preservation’s National Preservation Conference 2001: Preserving The Spirit of Place Sponsored by the National Trust for Historic Preservation Providence, Rhode Island (800) 944-6847 www.nthpconference.org NOVEMBER November 6-10, 2001 National Interpreters Workshop (NIW) Des Moines, Iowa For more information, please call: Brook McDonald (630) 428-4500 or Kelly Ulrick (515) 276-4656 x 237 November 7, 2001 Conference Call for Byway Leaders America’s Byways Resource Center For more information, please call: (800) 429-9297, ext. 5 or mjohnson@byways.org November 12-14, 2001 “Farming on the Edge: Conservation, Community and Commerce” Pheasant Run Resort St. Charles, Illinois ewest@farmland.org November 30 -December 4, 2001 AASHTO Annual Meeting Fort Worth, Texas For more information, please call: (202) 624-8489 or hannahw@aashto.org DECEMBER December 5, 2001 Conference Call for Byway Leaders America’s Byways Resource Center For more information, please call: (800) 429-9297, ext. 5 or mjohnson@byways.org 2002 January 29-31, 2002 Minnesota Governor’s Conference on Tourism Duluth, Minnesota For more information, please call: (800) 657-3637 or jan.sawinski@state.mn.us April 11-14, 2002 Preserving the Historic Road in America Third Biennial Conference on Historic Roads Omaha, Nebraska For more information, please call: (202) 588-6204 or www.historicroads.org April 21-24, 2002 For America’s Communities, Countryside, and Public Lands Denver, Colorado www.scenicsummit.org April 21-25, 2002 Scenic Summit For America’s Communities, Countryside, and Public Lands Action in the 21st Century Denver, Colorado www.scenicsummit.org September 28-October 1, 2002 AASHTO Annual Meeting Opryland Hotel Nashville, Tennessee For more information, please call: (202) 624-8489 or hannahw@aashto.org October 8-13, 2002 56th National Preservation Conference Sponsored by the National Trust for Historic Preservation Cleveland, Ohio www.nationaltrust.org Oct. 26-29, 2002 National Land Trust Rally 2002 Sponsored by the Land Trust Alliance Austin, Texas November 2002 National Interpreters Workshop Sponsored by the National Association for Interpretation Virginia Beach, Virginia For more information, please call: (888) 900-8283 2003 Sept. 30-October 5, 2003 57th National Preservation Conference Sponsored by the National Trust for Historic Preservation Denver, Colorado www.nationaltrust.org October 11-15, 2003 AASHTO Annual Meeting Anchorage, Alaska For more information, please call: (202) 624-8489 or hannahw@aashto.org America’s Byways Resource Center Arrowhead Regional Development Commission 227 West First Street, Suite 610 Duluth, MN 55802 SIDEBAR: VISTAS is printed on 100% post-consumer recycled paper, processed chlorine free.