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Exh 8N~, G / Y q - z 7- 99 CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH CITY COMMISSION STAFF REPORT AGENDA ITEM: Approval of Dutton Island Plan DATE: September 23, 1999 •~ SUBMITTED BY: David E. Thompson, City Manager BACKGROUND: A Pine Island (Dutton Island) Master Plan has been received from Landers-Atkins Planners. See attachment. Staff reviewed the plan and made several minor changes to it, assuring that other grants would not require modifications or amendments. Staff has approved the plan in its current form. The Recreation Advisory Board reviewed the plan at their Wednesday, September 22, 1999 meeting. A summary of their recommendations is attached for your review. Chairman DeJean Melancon will be attending the City Commission meeting. Staff does not agree with providing a "resident custodian" on the island, and staff believes that the final determination relative to permanent construction vs. a pre-fab restroom facility should be decided when construction plans are being developed. RECOMMENDATION: To approve the Pine Island Master Plan, and authorize staff to negotiate with Landers-Atkins for a contract for construction plans for bidding and building the project. Included in this recommendation is authorization for staff to seek grant funding to pay for planning and design work. ATTACHMENT: Memorandum from Timmy Johnson regarding the Recreation Advisory Board Meeting September 22, 1999 Landers-Atkins Master Plan Proposal REVIEWED BY CITY MANAGER: AGENDA ITEM NUMBER: SEP-23-99 89:14 AM PARKS AND RECREAtIbN 9@42475849 CITY QF ~,actlc ~;tctt~ - ~leurtel~ September 23,1999 To: David Thompson, City Manager From: Timmy 3ohnson, Recreation Direct ~.~; Re: Recreation Advisory Board Recommendation P. 01 80o s~nNaLe xonn pT[,AN'rIC BENCii, FIARID~+- 32533-3445 Tgt,gPfiO1~IE (9p4) 247.3800 FAX {9641105 The Recreation Advisory Board held a regular meetng Wednesday, September 22, 1999 at 7:15 PM. At this meeting 'tom Atkins from I.-enders and Atkins gave a presentation on Dutton Island Master Plan. The Board had concerns for primitive camping (number of camp sites and cam~rs) and Barbara Hopson expressed concerns for the contml burn. The following is the final motion: Steven ]enkins motioned, "to support the Dutton Island Master Plan subject to: A. Final approval of a detailed primitive camping mar-agement plan to include at a minimum 1. Maximum load•campers and campsites ~. Resident custodian provision 3. campsite permitting policy B. Final approval of resiroom facility spectifications to include perma22ern canstuction in lean of pre-fab facility C. Adoption of apre-burn approval policy per USDA Division of Forestry Guidelines and Recommendations" 'I he motion was seconded by lay Coleman and the notion carried, City of Atlantic Beach Master Ptan -Dutton Island Park _. TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE ^ INTRODUCTION ....................,..........................................................................:.........2 ^ THE SITE ..........................................................:......:.................................................2 ^ DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM .........................................................................................4 ^ MASTER PLAN ...........................................................................................................6 ^ PROBABLE COSTS .....................................................................................................8 ^ APPENDIX Vegetation and Wildlife Survey Cover painting of Pine Island by C. Ford Riley. LANDERS-ATKINS PLANNERS, INC. R199043DUTTONISLANOIDUTTOND000MENT.DOC - - - _. _. - _. PAGE 1 OF f0 City of Atlantic Beach Master Plan -Dutton Island Park INTRODUCTION Dutton Island, located adjacent to the Intracoastal Waterway in Atlantic Beach, represents the preservation and conservation of a unique piece of old Florida. Adjacent to the eastern shore of the Intracoastal Waterway, this island of approximately 38 acres is surrou_ nded by an intricate salt marsh ecosystem connected to the main land by a narrow causeway. The island had been the home of Walter E. Dutton for many years and its early history dates from a claim of Bartlome DeCastro Y Ferrer on a survey executed in the fourth quarter of the year 1833 by Henry Washington. During the past 10-15 years, the island had been under heavy pressure for development to turn it into residential lots and homes. Through the joint efforts of the citizens of Atlantic Beach, the City of Jacksonville, and the Jacksonville Port Authority, and application was made to the Florida Communities Trust Presentation 2000 Program to acquire and preserve the island for the use and enjoyment of all citizens of the area. THE SITE The site consists of approximately 38 acres (37.77) above the mean high water elevation of 2.25 feet N.G.V.D. However, much of this consists of marsh and wetlands. The upland areas bounded by the Department of Environmental Protection and the Army Corps of Engineers {COE) jurisdictional lines is 27.52 acres and 24.97 acres respectively. The safe upland line is the COE line. The island is linked to the mainland via a small causeway about a quarter of a mile (1332') in length which connects to Dutton Road a 60' right-of-way. Several culverts provide flow under the causeway which helps irrigate the marsh. The primary culvert, located at the western end of the causeway is a 60" to 72" corrugated steel structure which is badly deteriorated and in need of replacement. This culvert and stnacture span a channel of about 150 feet and provides the main tidal flow and access to the marshes along the east side of the island. This culvert is to be replaced by the City of Atlantic Beach in the fall of 1999. LANDERS-ATKINS PLANNERS, INC. USERVER{L4P JOBS199043 OUTTON l SLAND1DUTfON OOCUMENT.DOC PAGE 2 OF 10 ~. .~; , 3 ~, ~t t o '~ , _ Y 8 Y c V E .;~ E to .~.y "A ~ v . r,. p ~ t m rii ` . h ~ ~ M ~ C -. p m ~: 7 ~ ° E Y ~ LL p J W ~ J _ O ~ ~ :. r r~ - i o c ~; _ "-'• = t ~ P? .N E L r~', N ~v' c j ~ ~ ~ • O OI C f C •~ yj ~ . ~ l0 'k V ~N, ~ 'N LLl ~ ,. ~. J ~ ~ ~ r kT ~ ~f a3 ~ _ C ~' ~ s ix °~ d r" c { N ~ r F~~: - ? w ~Qp ~ ~ t~ ± ~ ~' ~ d "Yb C / .S Y i ~-~ i~ ' W Y , ~~ ! " ~S ~ F ~ Ol - ,,yt'a C ~F.W ' ~ Y p ~ ~ +~ gyqp ~S ~~ a 'O 't _ ~ m ~¢ c 3 _ ~ _ v ~ ~ a i d ' ~ ri ~ ro- ~. ~"~ , m c i ~ a.~ x ~ p~p ~' U E m '~ , L1 `o ,~ "~~in ' ~c ~ _ ~ ~ U C ~ r j ~~ ~ J ~ m C ~ r ~ U O C Y' _' Sr' O ~ Q. J - ~ ~ O Q ~ ~ r r 2 ~~ ` ~ ;'i ~ o c a m Y g ~ ~ - .~'^ ? m 3 ~ ~` °~ ¢ x - E 0 0 LL c--i . ' P C y 't'i5 . 2 ~ .4 a~ c ~ c N X07 'C NC ~ Z Y WmN Yt c ~2 ~ " Q Qy t S~ $ cln M s L ~ Tt p ~t A W ~¢~ a ~ '. Z Q Z ~ t' C Q ~~ ~ ~ ~WUW~ UI . rW V/ TLL 1 W ~_ Q ~ O ~v~ ~~U w W Q~U e 'y l~ OQ ~-: h qv~ City of Atlantic Beach Master Plan -Dutton Island Park Soils Soils on the site consist of two broad categories as defined by the soil survey of Duval County - Boulogne (14) and Leon (32), both considered fine sandy soils to a depth of greater than 60", and neither of which is subject to flooding. However, each has a characteristically high water table at 6" to 18" below the surface for most of the year (January through October). Vegetation and Wildlife As part of the agreement with FCT, a wildlife and vegetation survey was to be conducted by Atlantic Beach to document the characteristics of the vegetation communities and the presence of any wildlife habitat on the island. As part of the master plan, this effort was conducted by Environmental Resource Solutions, Inc. of Jacksonville Beach. The results are attached as Appendix A There are basically three vegetative communities and a borrow area on site. The majority of the upland area (16.29 acres) is made up of pine flatwoods which are located along the perimeter of the site inland to a depth of 40 to 160 feet from the marsh. The center of the island is characterized by a large live oak hammock of nearly 9 acres. This area provides a great deal of shade and relief from the sun as opposed to the more open pine flatwoods. The fringes of the island from the upland jurisdictional lines to the mean high water line and beyond are characterized by salt marsh. A small area on the northern end of the island is a pond or borrow pit that was created to provide fill for a docking area years ago. 6SERVERUAP JOBS199043 DUTTON (SLANDIDUTTON DOCUMENT DOC PAGE 3 OF 10 LANDERS-ATK/NS PLANNERS, INC. City of Atlantic Beach Master Plan -Dutton Island Park Development Program As part of the acquisition of Dutton Island, a management plan was prepared by the City of Jacksonville and the City of Atlantic Beach (95-058-P56} to outline the long-term use, management, and consistency with local plans and policies. The Management Plan for Dutton Island is designed to address the following: ^ Preservation and enhancement of environmental resources ^ Restoration and enhancement of water quality and marine habitat ^ Protection of native vegetation and wildlife habitat ^ Passive recreation ^ Environmental education Future uses of the site will be limited to passive resource-based recreational activities such as hiking trails, bird and wildli#e observation areas, picnicking, primitive camping, fishing areas, swimming areas, canoe/kayak launching (to trails connecting the neighboring Tresca Intracoastal Waterway Preserve and around the perimeter of Dutton Island and surrounding marshes), and interpretative/environmental education. Dutton will be managed only for the conservation, protection, and enhancement of natural resources and outdoor recreation which is compatible with these goals. As part of the grant, several special conditions were imposed on the property and its managing entities. These are summarized here as follows: Jacksonville Port Authority, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Permit/Cert. Number 16-292767-2 and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Permit Number 199403114 (IP-BL) requirements: As a model of Public-Public Partnerships, the Jacksonville Part Authority, as part of its port expansion mitigation plan, has agreed to contribute $100,000 towards both the acquisition ($60,000) and improvements ($40,000) to the Preserve. Jacksonville Port Authority shall ensure that the Dutton Island Management Plan required by FCT provides for the restoration of the 1.2 acre freshwater pond. The freshwater system shall consist of a forested and/or scrub/shrub wetland with herbaceous wetlands and shallow open water. Jacksonville Port Authority shall submit a signed and sealed survey of the island to the Department of Environmental Protection. Management Activities The following are excerpts from the Dutton Island Management Plan relative to management of the site: Maintenance of the park will be the responsibility of the City of Atlantic Beach. Trash removal, restrbom maintenance, trail and boardwalk and docking facilities are the chief aspects. Durable natural materials are preferred for construction items while peripheral items such as benches and tables may be constructed of recycled plastics. TKINS PLANNERS, INC. IISERVERU.APJO8S199043 DUTTONlSCANDIDUTTON DOCUMENT DOC PAGE 4 OF 10 City of Atlantic Beach Master Plan -Dutton Island Park ' Security -Access to the site is limited by the road at Dutton Drive. This will be gated after dark except for pre-arranged events and camping. ' Staffing -During the day it is not anticipated that an on-site manager will be required. Coordinated management between the Jacksonville and Atlantic Beach Parks Departments will be accomplished. Community volunteers and organizations will supplement staffing as necessary. Natural Resource Protection A baseline survey to identify ali plant communities and animal habitats will be prepared (see Appendix A ). Proposed amenities will be coordinated with the vegetative and wildlife surveys so as to minimize impacts. Public access will be limited to natural trails and designated areas; minimal impervious areas will be developed; docking areas will be limited to one each on the northern and southern parts of the island. Resource Restoration and Enhancement A burn plan for the pine flatwoods portion of the site will be initiated and coordinated with the USDA Forest Service. Aself-guided trail system for interpretive tours of the site will be developed. The removal of exotic vegetation will be accomplished concurrently with controlled bums and site preparation work. Educational Programs The cities of Atlantic Beach and Jacksonville Parks and Recreation Departments will sponsor environmental education programs in cooperation with local elementary and junior high schools. Educational kiosks will be included in the trail system. LANDERS-ATKINS PLANNERS, INC. __ IISERVERILAPJOBSl99043DUTTONISLANOIDUTTONDOCUMENT.DOC PAGE 5 OF 10 ~- ~ ~ ~ ~ 3aza~l LL aY ~ ~ aa4 ~~ ~a! ~~ ~~~ ~ w ~a ~ ~ ~ --~` l gg ~I ~~ J~+~' ~ ~ Z W~~ ,d i~ ~ /~ t~ j . ~~ Ott ` \ ,~ ~ - v aY j ~~ ~ v ~llj ~ ~ Y ~ ~% ~ l a7 ~M ~ ~ ~ i y ~ ~~ has ~ ~i ~ ~' J~~ .~ ~ r J ~ 9 b ) 9i ~ ~~~~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ p F ~~ ~y ~\ i a~ •~ e~ ~ ~ ~~ ~~ ~ ~ ~ s ~ ~ ~` ~~ S 5~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~ o '~ ~a•~ 1 jjj ~ ~ g ~ v ~ ~ ~ ~ 8 iZ i ~ `rei ~1-f~ ~ '~ ~ a 'd ~ a ~ ~~ ~~ ~ ~~~b. ~ ~ -, i w ~ e e '~ l ~ 1 E ~ ~ ~ ~. ~ it - ~ M ~~~ ~ ~ ~~ ~ ~ / 1 ~ ~~ % aY ~s ~ r_ s ~ ~Y ~M ~ j i ~ ~~ ~ ~ U ~~ ~ U ~ a ~ ~` V ~ ~~ ~ ~ ~ ~ CHEEK l "S~ .~ ~ ~`"'j j Stioa.L ~! ~M ~ \x-^11 ~ ItJ '~ ~ ~.ti ~ ~ j. aY d ~ ~ ~ ~ '~ ~~ ~ ~ ~ ~, ~I ~~~ ~ ~ ~ ~~ ~ A ~ ~ ,~ D LITTON ISLAND MASTER PLAN CONSULTING Tom, VEGETATION WILDLIFE . LANDERS-ATKlNSPL4NNERS,rn~. CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH ATLANTIC BEACH, FLORIDA 427 Oak Hammock (8.84 AC. Total) 411 Pine Flatwoods (1829 Ac. Total) ~~~~~ 642 Salimarsh Wetlands (12.18 Ac. Total) 534 Fadeting Ponds (0.88 Ac. Total) WIIdIIte Survey Transact The rna)ority of the Island's perimeter is a cxitlcal ecotone utlllzed for the forega of numerous spades of wetland avtlauna, as evidenced by heir etwndance during the wildlife survey. Additionally, wood ducks were observed utlllzing the borrow pk and Improvement In this area Qnduding the proposed enhancement plan end possibly the Inetallaibn aF some nesting boxes) would tlkely resuh In Irxxeased water fowl activity. Small mammals are present on the Island in releWe abundance while evidence suggests that larger fauna, such as white felled deer, also forage h the area. H...orr~,nr. . Ebert Architects . Chantal Bowen Engineering '" . Environmental Resourrce 3olutbna . Boatwright Surveying o ~o eo teo City of Atlantic Beach Master Plan -Dutton Island Park MASTER PLAN Based on the purpose set forth in the Florida Communities Trust and the conditions outlined in the Dutton Island Intracoastal. Waterway Preserve Management Plan, the Master Pian for Dutton Island revolves around preservation of the resource and passive activity. The intent of the master plan is to utilize disturbed areas as much as possible for trails,_parking, and canoe launch activities while taking advantage of shade, vistas, and breezes for human activities such as camping, picnicking, and nature study. The design philosophy for construction should be to "place the facility gently on the ground." The master plan elements include the following: • Visitor Orientation: This area is located immediately at the west end afi the causeway in an area already impacted by vehicles. This area is about one-half acre in size and includes a restroom facility, building with minor storage, and an information kiosk with graphics, trail maps, and interpretive information. This area would also provide storage of canoe carts and specialized wheelchairs for patrons with physical disabilities. A portion of the area, 10,000 to 15,000 SF, would be stabilized for bus and emergency vehicle access/turn around. This is the only area where water is available on site. • Picnic Areas: Four separate picnic areas are designated on the plan ranging in size from one-quarter acre up to one and one-half acres. They are located to take advantage of the views to the Intracoastal, near activity areas. A small open shelter built of indigenous materials, thatch roof and pole structures, would be located at each. Picnic tables with trash receptacle would be available at each area. • Camping: Camping on site is envisioned as "walk in primitive camping." Campsites within the camp areas would not be designated. These camping areas are split into two areas, one in the center of the island within the oak hammock area and the other located to the north near the canoe launch overlooking the Intracoastal waterway. The two camping areas are about 1 %2 to 2 %2 acres in size. Tent camping areas could accommodate up to 48 campsites of 3500 square feet each. With two to two and a half persons per campsite, this is a total of 96 to 120 persons. Camping areas may accommodate up to two central fire rings. Canoe/Kayak Launch: These areas are limited to two locations on the island, one an the northern end, and the other on the southern end. The northern location is at an area previously dredged and somewhat protected. The southern location is at an area that also has been impacted, yet is shallow enough to prevent larger craft from tying up to it. These launch areas may consist of an at grade or slightly elevated boardwalk 6' to 8' wide that stretches perpendicular to the shore line, then "T's" with another boardwalk section 6' wide running parallel to the shore. This later piece may float or be stationary depending on tide changes and shore line configuration. • Trails: Trails through the Park consist of two types -stabilized and unstabilized. The stabilized trail generally follows the existing cleared area of the site. This existing cleared trail was once proposed for a road by a developer. This area is very sandy and may make travel very difficult. The consultant recommends a mixture of 1/3 to 1/4 part lime rock with 2/3 to 3/4 part existing sand to help form a stabilized trail base LANDERS-ATK/NS PLANNERS, INC. VISERVERVIAP JOBS199043 DUTTON lSLANDIDUTTON DOCUMENT_DOC PAGE 6 OF 10 City of Atlantic Beach Master Plan -Dutton Island Park of 6' to 8' wide, then allow pine straw or other natural materials to cover the trail. Additional planting may be done or simply allow natural vegetation to emerge to narrow the scar of the existing trail. The second trail system is simply ahand- cleared, natural material trail cut through the woods generally along the perimeter. Each of these trails would be part of the interpretive signage system on the island. Three kiosks are proposed, one at each end of the island and one a# the visitor control area. Smaller interpretive signs would be located throughout the island along trails and at observation or points of interest. Twenty to twenty-five such signs are envisioned. IISERYERVAPJOBS199043 DU770NlSL4NDIDUTTON DOCUMENT.DOC PAGE 7 OF 10 ,i i LANDERS-ATK/NS PLANNERS, INC. ~~~ Salt Marsh ~ - ~ .~ ..-. - >_ ----- r- _• _ .~ :~ ~. i_. 1:. ''~ ~. C~V~ OOiC w ~ ' ~~ aotential ~~` ~- ,<, ` xt ~ ~ > ' •-~,.~!; Potential ~~~ ~•~ ~ ~:~ >t.j ~ ~ ~ ~' ~ ~ Canoe LaurrtC x.~ Fi 'er ''~ ,t ~ ~ j ,. } .~, , ~,.,~ Fishin ie ~ ~- ~c f~z8r-• ~/' ; ~; , ~r,~a ` / F'-. , ,•::`s ". ~, ~tr'J R~' ~° , +.. s \ \ •~'J' '' .#' Launch • l <`< _ - 1. "":'-.._.-..._.._._.._...._,- `" -~C1mItIVE* i r f ~ F' ~.. •"-1. ... 1 /• ~ ~~ 1. ~ s ~ ` • R Are ~~ tyr•'. a ~.,, max. ' w ~ ' ,~ .. ,,_.~~ ~ ` }2~store~j trail for ~ ~; • Picnic .~ -w i,•~,"• ~ s' ~' y4 ,: j ~t~ I ` r w ' ~ ~'. ~ "" `' ,, ~ ~ r . ~ ~ - 09'bu~9Y ~ ~Y tY• Area's,/'~ •wt' ~, \ "~ ` ~ w ~°` + M. ,~r,..r .-.. ~ ~~ I ~iittin l~ a,af'' t ' ~ ~ a' • ~, t!:.~ .' ,' y, \ .,, + ..-,.. . ~ vehicle. .J{ ., , >. 1 'r ~ ~``~ ` , 4YN 3 ' Pfcnlc ~ ~i „o,n~. ~w,~~ ,,fir;{ ~ ~f r, -~ ,;f y~ ,, ~kf ~p r~s ~~ ~ srt ea <. -• 3 ~ ay~rr .. ~ y ; `* "'~ t ~ a r7 '~ ~b t ~ ' y f -~ ~ ~' 'r i ~~, ,:'r--~-~. .y' i ~ f~{.l' ~~. j ~`. i~ .w tIfNY'"~l~Y ~*~f~-' ~ ~. i',.S I •..\ ~~ 1y'~-ay;~ Y« .,r" , 5`` :;~'-._.. ,f~i~, *~"` *Areac,~ ; N Primitive ~ ~ ``~`~ } ,.. ~.~~• ~~,~, w. ~' }r '~'~` ~-~--: ,~. -.y,~~ ~,.r ~ • ~ ~ f~m~ing Area R ,< _ ..~ "f2~storatto. ~#o ~~- ~ .< ,,f_ ... ~ ~ , ,' ', ... ~.• .'` ~ a_.. ' ,~~t' °- ~Hikiny/ ~ 'Fre`sh Wat Mars ~ ~ ~ r. ;=-• ..rrM+„~ u ~ ~ Interpretive 1''i~te~tlailN dlife ~~s ~" ~ ~ y W ~ ~ # trail +}.H~~bi'tat ~~ ~~~ ~~ Grp ~. y _ ~~~~ - .`• ~eir4asra^ra+ax~....,-~+.. ',t,.e'" ~. ;r~af~mOCl(..y =`~ ~ ~~' •.... ) ~ j r~r !n N'~v'r - ~ _ ~ ~t ~~..., T ~-~~. +c~''~'" f'? ~A'~- ~,. 1 x.3v c ,Y h,"" ! ,y ±y ~` /~ . "Yw _ :` .a,. ' ~. y* /-F eb, '~ itioharEa~forS ` '"t ,rN ~.,..,l.c~ "t"~"'•'"•"'`,"'_~ ~ .fi^ .:'"'- -.~`J,• u t~s'~Ce'y,. ~ ,5~, °vfSito 'tation, _.._._ ~ ~:~ LL _'"''- .. . , .--__. ~ ~ ` .. r ~ restroom~, ~ 'ng ~ ,r.,•r,::": '"` µ ~ ,< ~'~~ /-~~;ir,,, canoe rentalfs raga, ¢ • ~: ~-•:.,.~: ~, ~~ ~ '~, ' ,"'w ~"t, 4 ~' , ii .c Y!•r : nter retive ce ~. ~', br ~ "~ - ~ ~: '~; " ~,~ ~~ p er~4r . '~ ;~.. ` . .~:~ ~~~• , ~ J ~' :+»~°~ - Obsefrtation % 4 = b,'; I ~ ,, w~~.._ . , ~.~~~~~' ~~ (~~.. ~ k''f ° _ ,Overlook x • ,~;x WIZ -~' ,~ ~ ~ ~., %,.~,-. --j - ,, ecdrtstrtictton • ~, _ y ~~' l_ _ t -~' ` j CON_SUL7ING YEA_M: i CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH •[ANOERJ'-ATKINS PLANNERS,m ATLANTIC BEACI-I, FLORIDA : cna~tare wen Engineering """ . Envlronmenlal Resource Solutions ~ . Boatwright Surveying i 0 ®t~ ,..,-I"-1 ! ~~ ~ I~~ , , o .o m rm t -43rrni-' . City of Atlantic Beach Master Plan -Dutton Island Park PROBABLE COSTS The consultant has investigated the relative costs of using prefabricated restroom facilities versus on site construction of the same. Three issues came into play when trying to assess the advantages of each. -First, the relative costs of each; second, the overall quality of the product and its. durability for the particular location; and third, the incidental costs (permitting, foundations, utility connections, and transportation/setup). The consultant has had discussions with the City of Jacksonville Parks and Recreation Department who has installed a prefabricated toilet facility at one of their sites. In addition, the consultant has received the data furnished by a manufacturer. However, this data is incomplete and difficult to assess since the manufacturer has not returned calls. It is difficult to gauge quality and construction from the catalogue without being able to see or touch the product, and the one facility that is local is inaccessible and not in use. The city's assessment varies depending on who one talks to. From the park planner's/grant writer's point of view, the prefabricated toilet seems to fit the bill because it can be ordered from a catalogue and its catalogue price is pre-determined. However, from the park engineer's point of view, the ultimate cost and coordination involved in getting details worked out and the quality are not worth the cost. Examples of incidental costs are: foundations or footings to accept the building, changes to plumbing or electrical service to meet code or match site conditions, bringing water/sewer service to building, and permitting costs.. All of these items expand the cost of the prefabricated building to the point that costs begin to be equal. An additional cost or concern relative to Dutton Island is the need to have a crane access the site to set the building as well as a semi tractor truck to deliver the product. While delivery costs are included, the crane is an additional cost. Also, the limitations on the culvert and causeway concerning weight and the turn around space for the semi present additional concerns. The consultant's view of the prefabricated toilet versus on site construction is that while basic costs may be lower, final construction, assembly costs, and peripheral items may drive the cost up to be comparable with on site construction. We have provided a cost for toilet facility with a single handicapped toilet for men and women (two separate rooms), a covered porch (5') on either side of the structure, a storage room for exhibits, and a place to display information about the site. The storage room can be between the restrooms in the space used for access to the back of toilet facilities. The building should have skylights, and a paved walk around the structures. The overall building footprint exclusive of overhangs and walks is 7' 6" X 26' 0" or about 200 square feet. We feel this figure is more than adequate to construct such a facility or even pursue a prefabricated unit. This facility should be of wood-cladded concrete block with epoxy finish interior walls. The consultant has budgeted $60,000 for construction exclusive of water and sewer facilities. LANDERS-ATKINS PLANNERS, INC. I1SER VERIL4P JOBS1990R3 DUTTON 1SLANDIDUTTON DOCUMENT.DOC PAGE 8 OF 10 __ _ _ _ _ _. City of Atlantic Beach Master Plan -Dutton Island Park ELEMENT AMOUNT Comfort Station $ 60,000 Well (artesian well @ 500ft.) 3;250 Septic Tank /Drain Field 4,500 Abandon existing wells (4", 6") 4,000 • Canoe/kayak launch - 2 @ $8,000 16,000 • Trails Stabilized - 3600LF (3200SY @ $2.501yd) 8,000 Unstabilized - 4000LF (2222SY @ $1.00/yd) 2,222 Boardwalk-200LF @ $105/ft 21,000 • Control Bums - (20 acres @ $10/ac) 200 • Picnic Areas Tables (20 @ $450) g,0Q0 Shelter (4 @ $1,500) 6,000 • Kiosks (3 @ $3,000) with interpretive materials 9,000 Trail Signs -Flora Plates (25 @ $15) 375 • Stabilized tum-around -15,OOOSF (1,667SY @ $3.00/SY) 5,833 • Primitive camping area -clearing & fire pits 1,500 • Creation of fresh water marsh Fill (1,080yd @ $3.00/yd) 3,240 Planting 5,200 • Nest boxes and platforms (4 @ $40/ea.) 160 • Fees, permits, contingency @ 20% 32,000 TOTAL $191,480 LANDERS-ATKINS PLANNERS, INC. F:t99043DUP'ONISLANOIDUTTONDOCUMENT.DOC PAGE 9 OF 10 City of Atlantic Beach Master Plan -Dutton Island Park APPENDIX LANDERS-ATKINS PLANNERS. INC. 8199043 DUTTON ISLANDIAPPENDIX.DOC ENVIRONMENTAL R E S O U R C E 23 August 1999 Mr. Tom Atkins, AICP Landers Atkins Planners 201 North Hogan Street Jacksonville, Florida 32202 __ ~~ ~ 4~ ~~ ~~ SOLUTIONS, INCORPORATED ~~ RE: Dutton Island Intracoastal Waterway Park: Wildlife Survey and Management Recommendations ERS Job No. 99050 Dear Mr. Atkins: On 22 June 1999, an Environmental Resource Solutions, Inc. (ERS) scientist performed a wildlife survey of Dutton Island Intracoastal Waterway Park. The pedestrian wildlife survey was conducted by walking 3 separate transects running from the waters edge on the eastern side of the island to the waters edge on the western side ,(see Drawing 1). Dutton Island is comprised of four main vegetative communities; (1) Oak Hammock, (2) Pine Flatwoods, (3) Saltmarsh, and (4) Man-made Borrow Pits. The attached drawing depicts each community with Florida Land Use Cover Forms Classification System (FLUCFCS) designations shown. The following is a description of each community type and wildlife observed therein. Oak Hammock (FLUCFCS 427) This community, comprising approximately 8.6 acres, has a canopy dominated by live oak (Quercus virginiana) with slash pine (Pinus ellioftir), cabbage palm (Saba) palmetto), and southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora} also present. Subcanopy species include american holly (Ilex opaca), yaupon holly (flex vomitoria), and water oak (Quercus nigra). Understory vegetation consists of palmetto (Serenoa rpens}, gallberry (Ilex glabra), bracken fern (Pferidium aquilinum), grapevine (Vitis spp.), virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), and blackberry (Rubus spp.). Wildlife observed within this community were the barred owl (Sfrix varia), yellow-bellied warbler (Dendroica coronata), armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus), and dusky pygmy rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius barboun). Tracks of raccoon (Procyon lotor) and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) were noted. Additionally, a pair of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) were sighted during a prior site visit by city officials. Pine Flatwoods (FLUCFCS 411) This community, comprising approximately 16.3 acres, has a canopy dominated by slash pine with a subcanopy dominated by wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera), water oak, American holly, Chinese tallow (Sapium seberfium), and redbay (Persea borbonia). Understory vegetation consists of saw 1548 The Greens Way, Suite 3, Jacksonville Beach, Florida 32250 Phone 904.285.1397 Fax 904.285.1929 Mr. Tom Atkins 23 August 1999 Page 2 palmetto, broomsedge (Andropogon spp.), bracken fern, gallberry, grapevine, yaupon holly, greenbriar (Smilax spp.), blackberry, and dogfennel {Eupatorium spp.). - - Wildlife observed within this community were armadillo, various warblers, and opossum (Didelphis marsupialis). Tracks of raccoon and white-tailed deer were also noted. Saltmarsh {FLUCFCS 642) This community, comprising approximately 12.2 acres, is composed of a high marsh and low marsh, both dominated by herbaceous vegetation. The high marsh is dominated by cordgrass (Spartina bakers), saltgrass (Distichiis spicata), false-willow (Baccharis angustifoiia), and St. John's wort (Hypericum spp.). The low marsh is dominated by saltmarsh cordgrass (Sparfina alterniflora), needle rush (Juncus romerianus), and sawgrass (Cladium jamaicense). Wildlife observed in this community were snowy egrets (Egrefta fhuia), little blue heron (Egrefta caerulea), and fiddler crabs (Uca pugnax). Man-made Borrow Pits (FLUCFCS 534) These systems, comprising approximately 0.7~acres, are excavated, water filled pits dominated by duckweed (Lemna spp.). The only wildlife observed in these pits was an unidentified aquatic snake. Protected Species Two species which are listed by the state of Florida's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission as Species of Special Concern in Duval County were observed on Dutton Island; the little blue heron and the snowy egret. Other Federal and/orState-listed bird species include the piping plover (Charadrius melodus), bald eagle (Haiiaeefus iuecocephalus), red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis), burrowing owl (Speotyto cunicularia), Worthington's marsh wren (Cistothorus palustris griseus), least tern (Sterna antillarum), and american oystercatcher (Haemafopus paiiiatus). The piping plover, least tern, Worthington's marsh wren, and American oystercatcher require sandy beaches or tidal flats for habitat. This habitat does exist on the property, however, none of these species were observed on the site. The proposed land use for this project is passive recreation. No impacts to the above mentioned habitat, existing wetlands, or other habitats are anticipated beyond the filling of the existing borrow pits for wetland restoration. Additionally, efforts will be made to increase wildlife use of the subject property as stated in the following section. It is the goal of the project to maintain Dutton Island as a pristine natural area and to encourage protected species utilization. Mr. Tom Atkins 23 August 1999 Page 3 MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS The following recommendations are provided as possible management alternatives/options for habitat improvement, habitat maintenance, increasing the sites available for avian nesting, and the removal of exotic and/or nuisance species on Dutton Island Intracoastal Waterway Park. Many of these alternatives could involve or be conducted by public interest groups at little or no cost to the City of Atlantic Beach. Controlled Burns Fire is a naturally occurring phenomenon in Florida that maintains the integrity of ecological communities, particularly pine dominated ecosystems. Periodic natural or prescribed fires are an important management tool which maintain biodiversity, reduce hardwood competition with the pine canopy, expose mineral soils which ehhance pine germination, and also control invasive exotic or weedy species. Based on discussions with Mr. Bruce Hill (U.S. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Forestry), the current fuel load on Dutton Island is extremely high. Prescribed burns on the park-site should begin with dormant season (winter) burns to reduce fuel loads. Conducting controlled burns during the growing season (April-September) is the ultimate goal, as this mimics natural fire regimes. As the fuel load is reduced, controlled burns during the growing season should occur every 3 to 7 years. Fire lines will follow existing features such as roads, wetlands and other natural ecotones wherever possible. If existing or natural fire lines are not present, it will be necessary to create fire breaks. The USDA Forest Service will conduct all control burns at a cost of $10lacre on the approximately 20 acres which need burning. Mr. Bruce Hill volunteered to discuss fire management issues at the next workshop. The pine flatwood community on Dutton Island should be burned in the winter of 1999!2000 to minimize wildfire danger due to the high fuel loads present on the island. Afire management plan, developed with the assistance of Mr. Hill, should be a top priority for the City of Atlantic Beach. Restoration of Borrow Pits As part of the required mitigation for the Jacksonville Port Authority's Marine Terminal expansion project [COE Permit No. 1999403114 (IP-BL) and DEP Permit No. 16-292767-2], the borrow pits on Dutton Island are to be restored to a freshwater herbaceous and forested wetland. To restore the marsh system, it will be necessary to fill the borrow pit to within 6 to 12 inches of the proposed mean high water level. Fill from an existing mound on the site should provide sufficient material to accomplish the necessary grades. The resulting freshwater system will consist of a forested wetland located along the outer edge, a herbaceous littoral zone marsh, and a small central area of shallow open water (Drawing 1). The forested wetland zone will be planted with red maple (Acer rubrum), pond cypress (Taxodium ascenders), tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica var. biflora}, and sweetgum (Liquidambar sytraciflua}. Herbaceous areas will be planted with duck potato (Sagittaria spp.), Mr. Tom Atkins 23 August 1999 Page 4 pickerel weed (Pontedaria cordafa), canna (Canna spp.), and rushes (Juncus spp.). Conceptual details and a cross section of the borrow pit mitigation area are included in Drawing-2. The estimated cost for the purchase, delivery, and installation of plant material for the borrow-pit restoration effort, assuming a total mitigation area of 1.2 acres as stated in the COE and DEP permit, is approximately $5,200. This estimate is based on the forested wetland community comprising 40% of the mitigation area (0.48 acres) at a cost of $4,500/acre, the herbaceous community comprising 40% of the mitigation area (0.48 acres) at a cost of $6,000/acre, and open water comprising 20% (0.24 acres). ERS is in the process of trying to determine whether a planting plan was developed for this mitigation area. If such a plan exists, ERS will revise this text accordingly. Nest Boxes and Platforms In an effort to increase the sites available for avian nesting on the island, nest boxes and platforms could be installed in the salt marsh edges or within the freshwater mitigation area. This would target such species as the wood duck (Aix sponsa) and. the endangered wood stork (Mycteria americana). As most bird species are specific to the dimensions of nest boxes that they will utilize, species specific nest boxes would need to be purchased for approximately $40 each. The placement of nesting boxes or platforms is popular with Boyscout and Girlscout troops and other special interest groups such as Friends of Dutton Island Preserve. It is therefore very likely that such boxes or platforms could be installed by volunteer groups. Exotic Species Removal Ghinese tallow was prevalent in disturbed areas of the island and its removal would reduce the risk of long-term establishment of this aggressive species. Removal of this species could be accomplished using controlled burns or manual removal which would be conducted during the annual mitigation area monitoring event. Island Debris Cleanup Considerable amounts of debris (tires, building materials, etc.) is found on the island, particularly around the borrow pits. In order to restore the island to a more natural state, cleanup efforts should be made. Educational Kiosks and Flora Plates To promote environmental and natural resource awareness, educational kiosks along pedestrian trails could be constructed. These kiosks could be used to describe the communities of Dutton Island, use and benefits~~of prescribed burning on Dutton Island, as well as identify common faunal species. Permanent I.D. plates or cards could also be installed along pedestrian trails to identify natural communities and specific plant species. The price of these plates is estimated at approximately $15 each. Additional kiosks at the freshwater marsh mitigation area could serve to educate park visitors about wetland functions and their importance in the landscape as well as __ Mr. Tom Atkins 23 August 1999 Page 5 to inform visitors that this is a man-made ecosystem. -The mitigation area offers a unique opportunity for park users to observe, through kiosk photos or repeat visits, the various stages of wetland development and succession. A budget of $8, 000 should be more than adequate to install kiosks providing section maps and interpretive information. ERS appreciates the opportunity to work with you on this project. if you have any questions or comments please do not hesitate to call Kim Allerton or me. Sincerely, ENV{RONMENTAL RESOURCE SOLUTIONS, INC. ``~'.. ~ '~__ B.J. 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