WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN BUCKS COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

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1 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN BUCKS COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA AUGUST 2011

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3 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN ADOPTED BY THE WRIGHSTOWN TOWNSHIP BOARD OF SUPERVISORS TOWNSHIP OF WRIGHSTOWN 2203 Second Street Pike Wrightstown, PA P: ~ F:

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5 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP BOARD OF SUPERVISORS Chester Pogonowski, Chair Jane Magne, Vice Chair Robert Lloyd, Member PLANNING CONSULTANT Bucks County Planning Commission 1260 Almshouse Road Doylestown, Pennsylvania P: ~ F:

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7 OPEN SPACE PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION AND PLAN SUMMARY... 1 CHAPTER 2 COMMUNITY BACKGROUND... 3 CHAPTER 3 GOALS CHAPTER 4 INVENTORY OF VULNERABLE RESOURCES CHAPTER 5 INVENTORY OF PROTECTED LANDS CHAPTER 6 PRESERVATION FOCUS AREAS CHAPTER 7 POTENTIAL OPEN SPACE LINKAGES CHAPTER 8 NON-ACQUISITIONS TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES CHAPTER 9 GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATION AND FINANCING CHAPTER 10 IMPLEMENTATION APPENDICES APPENDIX A APPENDIX B APPENDIX C PROTECTED LANDS PROPERTY STATUS REPORT RESOLUTION FOR OPEN SPACE PLAN LIST OF MAPS MAP 1 MAP 2 MAP 3 MAP 4 MAP 5 MAP 6 MAP 7 MAP 8 Hydrological Resources Steep Slopes Woodlands Prime Agricultural Soils Historic Resources and Scenic Roads Inventory of Protected Lands Preservation Focus Areas Open Space Linkages WRIGHSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN i

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9 CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION AND PLAN SUMMARY Wrightstown Township has prepared this updated Open Space Plan as a statement of its vision for open space preservation. In developing the vision, the Township examined the current state of development, past actions that have resulted in open space preservation, opportunities for preservation in the future, and action steps that will be taken to implement the open space vision. The plan has been prepared to meet the requirements of the Municipal Open Space Program component of the Bucks County Open Space Program. Under the County program, $26 million has been set aside for municipalities, which provides financial assistance for open space planning and acquisition. To become eligible to receive funding, municipalities are required to re-examine and update existing open space plans. Wrightstown Township is eligible to receive $353,378 in municipal funding (with a 25 percent match). In addition to the municipal open space component, the County open space program includes a Farmland Preservation component, Bucks County Park and Recreation component, Bucks County Natural Area component, and Delaware Riverfront component. The Bucks County Open Space Program is designed to preserve three types of open space through this array of components: farmland, natural areas, and parkland. The Natural Areas component has been allotted $11 million to assist municipalities and nonprofit organizations in permanently preserving important examples of Bucks County natural heritage. The Natural Areas Program is a competitive grant program in which municipal governments and private land trusts are eligible to apply. Applicants may receive funding up to 50 percent of a property s appraised value or $500,000, whichever is less. Grants may be used to purchase land in fee simple or to acquire conservation easements that would ensure protection of the property s significant natural area. The Wrightstown Township Open Space Plan update is organized in the following way: Community background, including Township demographics and land use. Natural Resources in the Township that have shaped development trends and Township ordinances. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 1

10 Policies and methods used by the Township to protect open space and important natural features. Open Space Goals supported by the Township. Inventory of protected resources and open space. Evaluation of remaining developable land and value of open areas in meeting Township open space goals. Non-acquisition tools and techniques which assist the Township in protecting open space resources. Government organization and capability to ensure sufficient resources to implement the plan s goals and recommendations. Action steps and implementation methods necessary to protect vulnerable open space resources and to achieve the open space vision. The plan will show that Wrightstown is a small community with many areas worthy of preservation, with a small but committed population concerned about preservation, and with a local government that has demonstrated its determination and its ability to protect the farmland, natural areas, and historic character of Wrightstown. 2 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

11 CHAPTER TWO COMMUNITY BACKGROUND Regional Location Wrightstown Township is located near the center of Bucks County. Its land area is approximately 9.9 square miles. The Township sits between the population centers of Newtown and Doylestown, and is surrounded by five other townships. At roughly 3,000 people, the Township is among the smaller municipalities in Bucks County, yet its presence in the center of the county and its significance in terms of resources make it an important keystone. Several significant cross-county roads pass through the Township (Routes 413 and 232 and Swamp Road). Bucks County s major waterway, the Neshaminy Creek which drains most of the county, forms the western border of Wrightstown. Wrightstown has been part of the Newtown Area Jointure for 27 years. This unique regional planning and zoning arrangement has allowed Wrightstown to develop in the context of a larger community of three municipal entities. Some of the data and information provided in this report are presented for the three municipalities together. More discussion of the role of regional planning is provided within this report. Land Use Patterns The Township remains remarkably rural, especially when compared to its neighbors in Northampton and Newtown to the south. The Township has several areas of farmland. Slopes, woodlands, and waterways have been obstacles to suburban development in parts of the Township. Development has occurred using on-lot water and wastewater facilities, consistent with the Township facilities planning and resulting in a low-intensity development pattern. In 2009, as part of the update of the County s Comprehensive Plan, the Bucks County Planning Commission completed a county-wide land use inventory. The BCPC used Board of Assessment data, aerial photographs, and records of development proposals to map land use throughout the County. While absolute precision in identifying and determining exact changes is not possible, due to differences in the mapping techniques and technology between 1990 and 2009 and potential errors in mapping, especially in the earlier data, the information provides enough accuracy to identify important trends and changes. In 2009, just over 50 percent of the Township consisted of residential land uses. Parks, Recreation and Open Space land use consists of 231[l1] acres. Parks, Recreation, and Open Space is made up of municipal, county, and state parks, and deed-restricted or open space easements associated with residential developments. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 3

12 Lands classified as Agricultural are 20 acres or greater where at least one-third of the parcel exhibits agricultural or farm-related characteristics such as stables, orchards, and active or fallow fields. This category may also include residential dwelling units and farm related structures on the same lot. There are 1,085 acres or 17 percent of the total land area in the Township classified as Agricultural. Nonresidential land uses, which include Transportation and Utility, Manufacturing, Quarry, Government and Institutional, and Commercial land uses represent just over 15 percent of the total land area. The first quarry in the Township was established in Rushland in the late 1800s. Other quarries followed in the 1960s and now occupy about 5 percent of land area, or 314 acres. Quarries or quarry-zoned land accounts for the largest nonresidential land area in the Township. About 13 percent of the Township land area is undeveloped, but not used for farming. During the nineteen-year period between 1990 to 2009 there were shifts in the land use characteristics in the Township. Agricultural areas declined as farms were converted to residential developments. The active preservation program undertaken by the Township led to an increase in land devoted to open space. The addition of Chippewa Farm as the Township building location contributed to an increase in land devoted to government and institutional land uses. Population and Housing Characteristics Township population in 2010, the year of the most recent U.S. Census, was 2,995 people, making it the fourth smallest township in Bucks County (after Bridgeton, Durham and Haycock Townships). Because of the rural development pattern, farmland, and quarry development, Wrightstown has an overall population density of 302 persons per square mile, compared with 1,028 for Bucks County as a whole. Wrightstown s population is well educated, largely white, and has a median income that is among the highest in Bucks County. In terms of education, the 2000 U.S. Census reveals the following: o o o o 92.5% of adults have a high school degree or higher 16.9% some college 42.3% Bachelor s degree or higher 3.1% Doctorate 7 th highest in County The median age in 2010 was 44.7 years compared with 42.0 years for county as a whole. Residents moving into Wrightstown between 1990 and 2000 tended to relocate here from elsewhere in Bucks County. o o 578 from other parts of Bucks County 96 from other counties in PA 4 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

13 o o 208 from other states 23 from outside US. The rural lifestyle in Wrightstown has attracted a population that appreciates the characteristics associated with small communities and natural, open areas. Table 1 lists the historical changes in population for Wrightstown from 1930 to The Township has experienced population growth nearly every decade over the past 80 years, with only 1980 showing a slight decline. Table 2 shows the Township s growth in relation to the surrounding communities and the County. Table 1 Year Total Percent Population Change % % , % , % , % , % , % , % Source: U.S. Census Table 2 Population Growth in Wrightstown, Surrounding Municipalities, and Bucks County, Municipality Percent Population Population Change Wrightstown 2,839 2, % Newtown Township 18,206 19, % Upper Makefield 7,180 8, % Warwick Township 11,977 14, % Northampton Township 39,384 39, % Buckingham Township 16,442 20, % Bucks County 597, , % Source: U.S. Census WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 5

14 Households Household size has been declining nationwide in recent years due to a number of factors: later family formation, declining birth rates, rising divorce rates, and more young people and older people living alone. The average household size and family size in Wrightstown in 2010 was 2.89 and 3.25 persons respesctively. (A household is one or more persons occupying a housing unit. The occupants may be related or not. A family household consists of two or more individuals related by marriage, birth, or adoption.) Median household size of 2.89 persons per household in Wrightstown was higher than the County median of 2.63 persons per household. Age The Township s population has been aging, and this trend can be expected to continue. The median age in the Township has been edging steadily upward, rising from 33 years in 1980 to 37.7 years in 1990, to 39.9 years in 2000, to 44.7 in The median age in Bucks County was somewhat lower, at 42.0 years in The upward momentum in the Township s age distribution reflects the number of baby boomers, members of the massive post-war generation born between 1946 and 1964, along with moderate gains in the 65-and-older population. At the same time, the share of young adults has been diminishing. Numbers for each of the three townships from 1980 to 2010 suggest that the population of the three townships that make up the Newtown Area Joint Planning Area, or Jointure, is getting older. This is consistent with trends seen in the Commonwealth, which by recent estimate has the third highest percentage of citizens 65 and older of all states in the nation. Table 3 Median Age 1980-M 1980-F Newtown Upper Makefield Wrightstown Source: U.S. Census The population of the Jointure can also be broken down into age cohorts based on data supplied by the Census. The graph below illustrates that the most significant changes involve a decrease in the percentage of residents aged 35 to 44 (from 25.5 to 14.0 percent) and an increase in the percentage of residents aged 55 and up. It suggests the possibility that more persons aged 25 to 54 advanced toward the older end of that grouping (which is likely), but also suggests that either a decreasing number of younger people moved into the Jointure or existing residents who were below the age of 35 in 2000 did not stay to replenish the those categories as they aged. Throughout the Philadelphia region the retention of recent college graduates and other younger residents has been a concern in recent years. 6 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

15 Age Distribution in Jointure 30.0% 25.0% Percent 20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0% % Source: U.S. Census (DP-1 Profile Of General Demographic Characteristics, 2010 and 2000 Census, P011 Age- Universe: Persons (from American Fact Finder Households and Families A look at Jointure residents living together as a household or family in an individual dwelling unit further illustrates the growth that has been experienced by the community. The Jointure saw an increase of 1,157 households and 787 families from 2000 to The percentage of households that were families slightly decreased from 77.6 percent in 2000 to 76.1 percent in The number of persons per household and number of persons per family both decreased in this decade, consistent with the trend in the county. Table 4 Age Group and Families Households Families Household Family Newtown 6,761 7,394 5,063 5, Upper Makefield 2,512 2,965 2,105 2, Wrightstown 971 1, Jointure 10,244 11,395 7,954 8,741 Bucks County Source: U.S. Census Housing The number of housing units located in Wrightstown and the Jointure is found below along with the 1990 through 2000 totals for the sake of comparison. As with population change, the numbers indicate a large amount of growth from 1980 to 2010, with the largest rates of growth WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 7

16 from 1980 to 1990, and a slow down between 1990 and 2000 and again between 2000 and Table 5 Housing Units 1980* Newtown Housing Units 1,564 5,329 6,848 7,618 Raw change 3,765 1, Percent change 240.7% 28.5% 11.2% Upper Makefield Housing Units 1,472 2,024 2,598 3,100 Raw change Percent change 37.5% 28.4% 19.3% Wrightstown Housing Units ,088 Raw change Percent change 10.9% 14.3% 10.3% JOINTURE Housing Units 3,814 8,216 10,432 11,806 Raw change 4,402 2,216 1,374 Percent change 115.4% 27.0% 13.2% Source: U.S. Census (00-MP-1, 80:MD-1) *The 1980 Census figures distinguished between seasonal and year-round dwelling units. For these municipalities the number of seasonal units was minimal, and the figure for year-round is used. Upper Makefield and Newtown have a higher percentage of newer housing than the county average. In the case of Wrightstown, its housing stock is older than housing found generally throughout the county, both in terms of having fewer homes built in the last 30 years and more dwellings 65 or more years old. Table 6 Housing Unit Age - Percent Built 1939 or Earlier Newtown Upper Makefield Wrightstown Bucks County Source: U.S. Census (00:MH-2) *Note: 2010 Census data not available at time of publication. Housing units can take many forms. In suburbia the single-family detached residence has tended to dominate in many communities. The Jointure as a whole is slightly under the countywide average of 64.1 percent of housing units being single-family detached units, although that lower percentage is largely caused by the distribution of housing types found in Newtown Township. The percentages of single-family detached units in Wrightstown and 8 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

17 Upper Makefield are above the county average. The Jointure is providing sufficient multi-family housing (including apartment and townhouse units) and is functioning as a multimunicipal group is intended to function. Within Wrightstown, multifamily housing is found in apartments and small accessory housing in villages and commercial crossroads, such as Penn s Park. Table 7 Single Family Detached Units and Total SF Percent Total SF Percent Units Units SF Units Units SF Newtown 5,329 2, % 6,844 3, % Upper Makefield 2,024 1, % 2,598 2, % Wrightstown % % JOINTURE 8,216 4, % 10,428 6, % Bucks County 199, , % 225, , % Source: U.S. Census (90:MH-2, 00:MH-3) *Note: 2010 Census data not available at time of publication. Housing unit ownership rates for the years 1990 through 2010 were above the average throughout the county, and all three townships experienced an increase in the percentage of home ownership between 1990 and 2010 with the exception of Newtown between 2000 and Table 8 Housing Unit Ownership Rate Newtown Upper Makefield Wrightstown Bucks County Source: U.S. Census (90:MH-1, 00:MH-2) Population and Housing Projections Population projections for every Bucks County municipality were made by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission in 2008, before the full impact of the current housing crisis and development slow-down were felt. At that time, this regional agency projected a 2035 population of 3,850 people. It is expected that this will be modified to take into account the record low levels of development in Bucks County during the past three years. Using prevailing household sizes and the DVRPC projections, it can be estimated that an additional 349 housing units would be built between 2000 and However, this forecast is inflated because it fails to account for the current housing downturn. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 9

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19 CHAPTER THREE GOALS The following goals and objectives form the basic framework for this open space plan. A goal is an ideal or desired condition that expresses the values of the Township in broad terms while an objective defines a purpose or commitment to achieve a desired goal or condition. Collectively, the goals and objectives provide a basis for officials to analyze and evaluate key decisions regarding open space resources and open space related resources (e.g., natural, historic, scenic and park and recreational resources) confronting the Township. The goals and objectives found in the Township of Wrightstown, Bucks County, Pennsylvania: An Open Space Plan (1998) and the Newtown Area Jointure Comprehensive Plan were used as the beginning point for the goals and objectives found in this open space plan. Multiple meetings with Township officials and residents helped to refine and update the vision for open space in Wrightstown. Wrightstown Township has the following goals and objectives for its program of open space preservation: Goal: Preservation of the Township s Character Protect the rural, small community environment by managing development, protecting views, preserving the character of roads through the Township, protecting the integrity of villages, and preserving open lands for farming and environmental protection. Objectives: Identify areas of the Township which have characteristics that establish the rural character of the Township. Such areas include properties which are undeveloped, underdeveloped, farmed, or contain significant environmental features. Evaluate these areas and establish guidelines and priorities for acquisition of open space for community purposes within the constraints of the various funding programs. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 11

20 As part of planning efforts to protect and enhance the Township s villages, consider the locations of properties whose acquisition would support the preservation of a village s identity and define its edge. Goal: Support Agriculture Support and encourage the continuation of farming in the community through a variety of actions, including the continued sponsorship of Anchor Run Farm, support for the Bucks County Foodshed Alliance, support for the Farmers Market at Chippewa Farm, and support of the activities of the Middletown Grange, which has its home in Wrightstown. Objectives: Continue to accommodate accessory farm businesses by supporting zoning for farm businesses. Continue to protect agricultural soils through the Newtown Area Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance (JMZO). Prepare buffer standards for nonfarm uses which will provide protection from nuisances for both new developments and neighboring farm uses. Continue to rent portions of existing farmland and buildings on Township open space to local farmers and residents to provide income to the Township and to maintain the farming character and heritage of the Township. Goal: Protect Natural Features Areas Protect areas that are important for environmental protection, scenic values, and open space values. Objectives: The intensity of development permitted under Township ordinances must take into account the suitability of the land and the natural features within and beyond the site. Through the JMZO, apply and enforce the natural resource and agricultural soils protection standards incorporated in the Comprehensive Plan. Promote native woodland habitat restoration in the Township by demonstrating restoration or establishment of forest habitat on the Township s open space. Goal: Continue the Open Space Preservation Program Continue the Township s established open space preservation program by taking advantage of a variety of funding sources and partnering with private initiatives. 12 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

21 Objectives: Promote the use of conservation easements that would allow private property owners to place conservation easements on their properties restricting all or a portion of the property from development and/or deed-restricting new parcels as appropriate. Continue to coordinate with the County regarding land and easement purchases through the Bucks County Open Space and Natural Areas program. Continue open space requirements as part of development options, utilizing the best possible standards for open space set asides by mandating meaningful and useful open space as part of new developments. Encourage and support private initiatives to protect open space. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 13

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23 CHAPTER FOUR INVENTORY OF VULNERABLE RESOURCES Inventory of Vulnerable Resources Summary Collectively, Wrightstown s natural, historic, and scenic resources shape its unique character and identity. Many of these resource areas are sensitive and are susceptible to degradation from insensitive or inappropriate growth and development. While it is unrealistic for the Township to preserve and protect all of the vulnerable resources identified below, those that are the most important to the Township can be targeted. Natural Resources Natural resources include the geology, topography, soils, watersheds, floodplains, wetlands, riparian corridors, and woodlands. The natural areas present in Wrightstown support a rich diversity of native vegetation and wildlife, indicating a healthy living environment for people, plants, and wildlife. Together, these landscape features are critical components in the open space planning process. This section describes these open space resources, providing a location and value for conservation. What follows is a description of natural features in Wrightstown, why they are important, and how they are or can be protected. Hydrological Resources Watersheds/Streams Wrightstown Township contains two primary watersheds Neshaminy and Delaware River South. The Neshaminy Watershed comprises the western three-quarters of the Township while the Delaware River South Watershed covers the remainder of the eastern portion of the Township. The Neshaminy Watershed originates in the northern portion of Bucks County and extends into Montgomery County and into lower Bucks County. Neshaminy Creek discharges its stream flow into the Delaware River at Neshaminy State Park on the border of Bensalem and Bristol Townships. In Wrightstown, the Neshaminy Watershed contains two secondary watersheds Mill Creek and Newtown Creek. Other important streams within this watershed include Anchor Run which flows into Mill Creek and Chapman Run flows into Neshaminy Creek. The Delaware River South Watershed originates at Point Pleasant in Plumstead Township and encompasses the land that drains into the Delaware River. In Wrightstown, Jericho Creek is a secondary watershed. Watercourses and streams are important natural features, playing a role in stormwater management, erosion control and water quality. Riparian woodlands play a major role in maintaining the vitality of watercourses. They provide shade and organic matter to support aquatic organisms that are the base of the food web in many habitats. They help to stabilize stream banks, moderate flooding, and filter out pollutants from runoff. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 15

24 Floodplains and Floodplain Soils Floodplains are relatively flat or low-lying areas adjacent to surface waters where flooding has occurred in the past and will likely occur in the future. During periods of heavy rains and high stream flow, floodplains provide temporary storage for floodwaters and providing a slower, more consistent flow of water. The natural vegetation supported by moist floodplains helps trap sediment from upland surface runoff, stabilizes stream banks for erosion control, and provides shelter for wildlife and proper stream conditions for aquatic life. Floodplains and floodplain soils occur along the Neshaminy Creek on the southwest border of Wrightstown and Newtown Townships and along Mill Creek in Wrightstown Township. The Pennsylvania Floodplain Management Act (Act 166 of 1978) requires municipalities with flood prone areas to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) by adopting ordinances that meet NFIP standards for regulating development in the floodplain. The Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance prohibits any development, use, or activity which would cause any increase in flood levels. Floodplain ordinances do not preclude all development. Agricultural uses, private and public recreation uses and uses incidental to residential structures are permitted. Residential or nonresidential buildings may be constructed within the 100-year floodplain so long as the lowest floor is elevated 1.5 feet above the 100-year flood elevation. While keeping buildings out of the floodplains is a goal of the Jointure municipalities, this policy has not been supported by case law and legal challenges. Wetlands Wetlands are undrained, saturated soils that support wetland vegetation where the water table is at or near the surface or where shallow water covers the area due to permanent or seasonal inundation of surface or groundwater. Wetlands play a role in maintaining and improving water quality by filtering out chemical and organic wastes. Wetlands store water during storms and floods, thereby reducing hazards to life and property. Wetlands provide groundwater recharge and habitat for many threatened or endangered plants and animals. Wetlands are shown in Figure 1. Wetlands are regulated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection under the Federal Clean Water Act and various state laws. The Corps requires a permit to disturb wetlands greater than one acre in size. State and/or federal agencies that permit wetlands disturbance may require that the loss of wetlands be mitigated by the creation of wetland areas elsewhere. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection also regulates wetlands under Chapter 105 Rules and Regulations administered by the Bureau of Dams and Waterways Management. The Newtown Area Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance (JMZO) largely prohibits the direct destruction of wetlands, but many development plans include road crossings of wetlands or create threats to wetlands from the secondary impacts of development. Grading and development near wetlands cause these resources to suffer the loss of hydrologic function and 16 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

25 critical wildlife species. The destruction of adjacent vegetation and the construction of impervious surfaces increase the amount of stormwater runoff and decrease the natural capacity of the wetland to handle water volumes, runoff speed, and pollutants. Changing the topography near the wetland affects the direction of stormwater runoff and can lead to either increased or decreased amounts of water reaching the wetland which affects the hydrologic functions of a wetland, threatening its existence. Lakes and Ponds Lakes and ponds function in a similar manner to wetlands. Whether natural or manmade, ponds moderate stream flows during storms and flood events and play an important role in oxygen and nitrogen cycles. These water bodies provide habitat for aquatic life as well as water sources for wildlife. These landscape features are also scenic and recreational amenities. Land Resources Geology Geology affects planning and land use decisions through impacts on water supply, topography, and soil characteristics. In Wrightstown the geology has resulted in quarrying, which has affected the land use pattern and planning decisions. Groundwater supplies largely depend upon geology, surface characteristics, water use and seasonal precipitation. The capacity of these aquifers to transmit and store water is directly related to the specific physical and chemical properties of the underlying geologic formation. The descriptions and water bearing characteristics of each are described below. Brunswick Formation This moderate yielding aquifer exists in the eastern portion of the Township while narrow bands are found in the south. Water yield can vary widely within this formation as it is closely related to the fractured pattern of the shale rock. Due to its unpredictable permeability, groundwater recharge may be a critical limiting factor for development within this formation. A typical well may have a relatively high yield when drilled, but may decline as the water table in the immediate vicinity is diminished. This situation may be compounded when several wells in close proximity are tapping the same aquifer. This area may be expected to support additional development with careful planning. Lockatong Formation This formation is contained in a band which extends through the western portion of Wrightstown Township. Composed of rather fine grained tightly cemented sediment, this formation is characterized by a gray to black shale, the object of quarry operations in Wrightstown Township. This nonporous rock formation is capable of transmitting water only where it has been faulted or jointed and exposed to weathering. Groundwater occurs under water table conditions in these secondary openings as far down as the base of the weather zone. The capacity of the Lockatong formation to store and transmit water is very low. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 17

26 Steep Slopes Topography can have a profound influence on development capacity, stormwater runoff, and site erodibility. Nearly all of the steeply sloping areas in Wrightstown are located along stream corridors. The Neshaminy and Mill Creeks are defined by steep slopes along much of their length. One site of note is Neshaminy Cliffs located off Swamp Road south of PA RT 232 (Second Street Pike). Development on steep slopes accelerates erosion by removing or disturbing the established groundcover and topsoil. Removal of the vegetation destroys the groundcover that absorbs rainwater, anchors soil, and buffers or dissipates the impact of rainfall on topsoil. Erosion produces sediment that pollutes surface water. Over time, accumulated sediments narrow stream channels and fill ponds. This process restricts the capacity of waterways to handle flood flows and increases the incidence and severity of flooding. Steep slopes are shown in Figure 2. The JMZO (Section 903.B.4) restricts regrading or development in steep slope areas depending on the severity of the slope as shown in Table 9 below. Table 9 Steep Slope Regulations Slope Allowable Disturbance 15 to 25 percent No more than 25 percent 25 percent or greater No more than 15 percent Woodlands Over the course of the region s agricultural history, most tillable land was cleared of vegetation and plowed under. Where the land was not suitable for cultivation because it was excessively wet, rocky, or steep, the forests were harvested from time to time, but not cleared. Today, most of the woodland areas are still located in areas that were never suitable for farming. Forest cover extends in predominately linear patterns along fields, ridges, and stream beds. The largest contiguous forest in the Jointure is on Jericho Mountain, located mainly in Upper Makefield Township. The forests of Jericho Mountain extend into the northeastern section of Wrightstown. Woodlands provide shelter for wildlife, play an important role in the oxygen, carbon, and nitrogen cycles, and reduce erosion and sedimentation in the area s streams. The vegetative cover softens the impact of falling rain, facilitates groundwater recharge, and reduces the volume and rate of runoff. Woodlands also play a role in filtering air pollutants and in moderating the impacts of greenhouse gasses. Woodlands moderate environmental conditions, support wildlife, and provide recreational opportunities. Trees also provide an important scenic element in the landscape. Woodlands in the Township are shown in Figure 3. The JMZO (Section 903.B.5) provides for the protection of wooded areas greater than ¼ acre as shown in Table 10 below. 18 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

27 Table 10 Woodland Protection Regulations Zoning District Conservation Management (CM) Country Residential 1 (CR-1) All other zoning districts Allowable Disturbance No more than 15 percent No more than 50 percent Township ordinances also require the protection of individual trees on wooded lots. Trees to be saved are required to be shown on a site plan, as are the tree protection boundaries and methods used to protect the trees during construction. In connection with any land development, permits are required to remove any live tree with a girth greater than 10 inches at 4 feet above grade. Tree protection zones, 15 feet from the base of the trunk or from the trunk to the drip line, are required to be placed around trees that are to be preserved. Prime Agricultural Soils The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides a classification system for the identification of prime agricultural soils. There are two major classifications as follows: Prime Farmland Land best suited for producing food, feed, forage, and oilseed crops. The soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply present are able to sustain high yields for crops economically when managed with effective farming methods. There are limited types of soils that qualify as prime farmland, but they primarily consist of Capability Classes 1 and 2 soils. Prime soils in Wrightstown Township are found in the Pineville area as well as along Neshaminy Creek. Additional Farmland of Statewide Importance Land that is of statewide importance for the production of food, feed, forage, and oilseed crops. In Bucks County, based upon the list of soils that qualify, the majority are Class 3 soils. Soils of statewide importance are found throughout the Township. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 19

28 The primary crops within Wrightstown are corn, numerous hay crops, small grains, soybeans, and truck crops. The number of farms and the amount of acreage in the Jointure devoted to agriculture has been declining, but aggressive preservation programs have saved many important farms with good farming soils. One of the goals of the Newtown Area Joint Comprehensive Plan (2009) is to preserve farmland soils and to conserve agricultural activity in those areas that are actively farmed and contain concentrations of prime agricultural soils. Prime agricultural soils are shown in Figure 4. The Newtown Area Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance (JMZO) provides for the protection of agricultural soils in the Conservation Management District. Intrusion and development are limited to 25 percent of soils referred to in the 1975 Soil Survey as Class I, II, and III soils and/or soils identified as Prime Farmland or Additional Farmland of Statewide Importance. Natural Areas Program Bucks County s significant natural areas were inventoried in 1999, to identify and rank all the environmentally important areas remaining in Bucks County, including those in Wrightstown. This survey, titled the Natural Areas Inventory of Bucks County, provides guidance for implementation of the natural areas protection component of the Bucks County Open Space Program. The individual site evaluation to determine the significance of natural areas is based upon 13 criteria addressing biological, ecological, hydrological, and geological components. Sites were assigned one of four levels of importance. Priority 1 areas that have statewide or countywide significance based on uniqueness or exceptionally high quality of natural features. Priority 2 areas that have countywide or statewide significance based on the overall quality and the diversity and importance of the resources. Priority 3 areas that have local or countywide significance that may contain small or degraded resources. Priority 4 areas that have biological or ecological resources that are important at the local level. The Forks of the Neshaminy is the only site identified in the Township and is a priority 2 area. The site includes forested slopes and floodplains along the Little Neshaminy and Neshaminy Creeks where the two come together near Rushland and lies within Northampton, Warwick, and Wrightstown Townships. It extends to Almshouse Road along the Little Neshaminy Creek and upstream along the Neshaminy to Dark Hollow Road. The north facing wooded talus slope along Neshaminy Creek below Dark Hollow Road is of particular interest as are the extensive wooded slopes and floodplains along the Little Neshaminy between the mouth and Almshouse 20 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

29 Road. This site does not include rare species, but rather an unusually undisturbed section of the respective creek valleys. Historic Resources Historic resources are essential in understanding an area s past settlement patterns and heritage. When protected and preserved, they can also make a significant contribution to the character of a community. Wrightstown Township s notable historic resources are shown in Figure 5. National Register of Historic Places The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of cultural resources worthy of preservation and part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect our historic and archeological resources. Historic sites in the Township include resources listed as historic districts and as historic properties. Historic Districts The Penn s Park Historic District and Wycombe Village Historic District have been listed as historic districts on the National Register of Historic Places. The Wrightstown Historic District has been listed as eligible for the National Register by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. No steps have been taken to formally get the district approved for the Register. These districts are shown on Figure 5 and described in more detail in the Villages discussion below. Historic Properties Nine properties have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These properties are shown on Figure 5 and are as follows: Penn s Park General Store Complex/ Gaines Property William Smith House Vansant Farmhouse Waldenmark Isaiah Warner farmstead Wrightstown Friends Meeting Complex Octagonal Schoolhouse Gropius House Four properties have been listed as eligible for the National Register. These properties are shown on Figure 5 and are as follows: Richard Mitchell House WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 21

30 Isaac Chapman farmstead Moister Property Hipple Property Villages Historic villages represent an important part of the area s culture and heritage. The history of the area is manifested through these small settlements, and loss of traditional villages is a loss for the entire community. The character and quality of the Township would be permanently diminished if small settlements were to disappear from the landscape, becoming unidentifiable as new development and growth engulfs the village image. Penn s Park is a commercial crossroads village that has the distinction of being listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the oldest village in Wrightstown Township. Penn s Park is a sizable village consisting of both residential and commercial uses. There are many older homes of both Colonial and Victorian architectural styles in the village. One large stone house, which had been used as an antique store, is presently a dance and performing arts school and a restaurant. In addition to the homes, the village houses a church, yarn shop, tavern, and offices. Over the years, conventional-style development that has been developed adjacent to the village and potential development on various lots may further threaten the historic character of Penn s Park. Pineville is a residential village located between Buckingham and Wrightstown Townships that contains a mix of residential and commercial uses. Among the commercial enterprises found there are a tavern, a greenhouse, and a post office. Durham Road (S.R. 413) that traverses the village is heavily traveled, but the center of the village is easy to identify by the post office and tavern, at the intersection of Township Line Road and Pineville Road. The village also contains several attractive houses, including some large Colonial stone houses. The Buckingham Valley Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center is located along Durham Road on the northwestern side of the village in Buckingham Township. The remaining lands adjacent to the village are rural residential or agricultural uses. Rushland is located along Swamp Road and Mill Creek. The New Hope Ivyland Rail line passes through the village, which contains a feed mill, quarry, a cabinet fabricator, a photographer, a post office, and a repair shop. 22 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

31 Wrightstown is located along a busy stretch of Durham Road (Route 413) near its intersection with Penn s Park Road. The village has no distinct edges and is more commercial than residential in character. Wrightstown contains several old stone buildings. There are several commercial uses in and around the village, including a nursery, gift shops, restaurant, and country store. The Wrightstown Quaker Meeting is located in the village. Wrightstown village is the site of a monument recognizing the famous 1737 Walking Purchase. The monument marks the starting point from which the descendents of William Penn sent runners to define the area that a man could cover in a day s walk, thus claiming from the Lenape Indians a large area of land. Wycombe is one of the best preserved Victorian villages in Bucks County, and in 1985 was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Straddling the Wrightstown and Buckingham Township border, it may still be considered a residential village, although it has a traditional nonresidential component with uses such as a church, the Wycombe Inn, and Histand s farm supply store. The village has characteristics of several settlement forms. It is elongated along Township Line Road and Mill Creek Road like a linear village. The village is centered near the train station and post office at the junctions of the railroad, Forest Grove Road, Township Line Road, and Mill Creek Road like a nodal village and crossroads village. The restoration of the train station and the repair of the historic bridge over Mill Creek have reinforced the community spirit and have been catalysts for community action and commitment. Residents of the village work hard to maintain Wycombe s history, character, and sense of community. Chain Bridge is an almost indiscernible hamlet located just north of where Second Street Pike crosses the Neshaminy Creek. The Chain Bridge Octagonal Schoolhouse, owned by Wrightstown Township, was one of nine octagonal schools built in Bucks County between 1800 and Except for the schoolhouse and two other structures, the original settlement of Chain Bridge has disappeared. Scenic Resources The rolling hills, farm fields, stream valleys, and historic buildings define the Bucks County landscape. Scenic roads in Wrightstown are segments of roadway that contain natural, historic, or cultural resources. Scenic vistas are points along a roadway that have sweeping views of the landscape. Because the scenic value of the landscape can be lost through inappropriate development activities, preservation efforts include the goal of preserving scenic qualities. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 23

32 There are many scenic roads and vistas throughout the Township. The following list includes some of the scenic roads/vistas in the Township: Brownsburg Road Cedar Lane Cherry Lane Durham Road/SR 413 Mill Creek Road Mud Road Park Avenue Penn s Park Road Pine Lane Rushland Road Second Street Pike/SR 232 Swamp Road Thompson Mill Road Washington Avenue Windy Bush Road/SR 232 Worthington Mill Road Wrightstown Road 24 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

33 CHAPTER FIVE INVENTORY OF PROTECTED LANDS Protected Lands The following provides a brief description of all preserved open space lands or areas that are permanently protected. The protected lands comprise approximately 908 acres or about 14.6 percent of the total area in the Township. The location and extent of these lands are illustrated in Figure 6. Appendix A contains a table that lists more detailed information. State-Owned Lands The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania owns a 7.3 acre parcel in the Township which is part of Tyler State Park. The property is located along the Neshaminy Creek and has no access to a public road in the Township. County-Owned/Leased Land The County owns four parcels totaling 11.1 acres in the Township. These parcels are part of the Forks of the Neshaminy natural area. Township-Owned Lands The Township owns a total of acres of recreation and open space land. Property Name Use Acreage Chippewa Farm Recreation Potential, Municipal 62.6 Fluehr Property Agriculture 7.3 Hipple Farm (Anchor Run Farm) Agriculture/CSA 60.9 Jane Chapman Drive East Dedicated Open Space 49 Jane Chapman Drive West Dedicated Open Space 24.5 Loeffler subdivision Dedicated Open Space 2.4 Matthews Lane Dedicated Open Space 20.9 Neshaminy Cliffs Undeveloped Open Space 0.3 Octagonal Schoolhouse Historic site 0.9 Parsons Lane Dedicated Open Space 21.5 Perry Lane Dedicated Open Space 3.4 Pheasant Lane Extension Undeveloped Open Space 1.1 Public Works Complex Municipal 3.68 Wicen Tract (Anchor Run Farm) Agriculture 40.9 The Village Library Library 0.62 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 25

34 Lands owned by the Township include the municipal building complex at Chippewa Farm and the Public Works building on Penns Park Road. The Township purchased the Wicen property using funds from the 1997 Bucks County Municipal Open Space Program. Bucks County Agricultural Land Preservation Program The Bucks County Agricultural Land Preservation Program has preserved four farm properties in Wrightstown Township totaling nearly 200 acres. The Bucks County Agricultural Land Preservation Program acquires agricultural conservation easements on viable farmland within the county. An agricultural conservation easement secured through acquisition is a legally binding document that is filed with the deed of a property, restricting its use to agricultural and directly associated uses. Restrictions are binding upon the owners and future owners, carrying with the land. A conservation easement allows a landowner to protect his farmland for agricultural uses while retaining private ownership of the farm. Once a farm is accepted into the agricultural preservation program, the property owner may sell or convey a conservation easement and receive cash for the development rights. The easement is placed in perpetuity. The Township has contributed over one million dollars to this program. Conservation Easements There are approximately 300 hundred acres in the Township covered by conservation easements held by the Township or by the Heritage Conservancy. The Township has either purchased or been given conservation easements on four properties totaling acres. The Heritage Conservancy holds conservation easements on four additional properties totaling acres. All of these properties are now protected from development. Agricultural Easements Held by Township The Township holds one agricultural preservation easement on the Perry Farm which is located at the intersection of Penns Park Road and Mill Creek Road. The farm totals acres. Homeowners Association Property Some of the residential developments in the Township have been developed with required open space areas. To date, 8.9 acres have been set aside in the Wrightstown Hunt residential development. 26 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

35 Other Lands The Other Lands category shown in Figure 6 represents land with recreational facilities and/or open space areas that are not protected by a legal mechanism such as an easement, but are unlikely to be developed in the future due to the nature of the existing use. These include school facilities and lands owned by utilities. School Facilities The Wrightstown Elementary school located on Penns Park Road is the only public school facility in the Township. It is situated on 20 acres. The Council Rock School District also owns 72.9 acres on Durham Road near its intersection with Stoopville Road. This property is in agricultural use. Utility-owned Property Utility-owned lands in the Township include parcels with appurtenances used in connection with the delivery of the utility and utility corridors. A majority of the 77.7 acres of utility-owned property in the Township is made up of the PECO overhead utility line corridor and the railroad right-of-way of the New Hope-Ivyland Railroad. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 27

36 28 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

37 CHAPTER SIX PRESERVATION FOCUS AREAS An assessment of the vulnerable resources in the Township, which include natural resources, historic resources, and scenic resources, reveals that much of the Township falls into one or more of these categories. Since it would be impossible for every resource in the Township to be preserved, Township officials must narrow the focus of conservation priorities. A set of Guiding Principles for open space preservation has been established. These principles are to be used along with the designated Preservation Focus Areas to identify parcels to be targeted for preservation. Together, the Guiding Principles and Preservation Focus Areas are meant to implement the goals and objectives of this Open Space Plan and to set priorities for action. Figure 7 depicts the Preservation Focus Areas and Target Area properties. Guiding Principles Protection of viewshed This guiding principle aligns with the Township s goal of preserving Township character. The Township s rural character is manifested in the views found along many of its roads. These roads have been identified and mapped on Figure 5. Also important are the areas immediately surrounding the villages which are important elements to consider in preserving village identity. A village viewshed begins at the transitional point where the built environment meets the surrounding landscape. The size of the viewshed varies with the topography, vegetation, and other structures or features of the village s surroundings. Parcels of 20 acres or more The Township has determined that parcels of 20 acres of more should be targeted for preservation. Parcels of this size are desirable for several reasons including their potential to further the Township s preservation goals, protection from future residential development, and their potential for use as passive recreation areas. The Township should be flexible in the application of this guiding principle. Opportunities for the preservation of parcels less than 20 acres should not be ignored. If the opportunity arises, parcels less than 20 acres in area which are located adjacent to preserved property should be considered. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 29

38 Undevelopable areas Areas of the Township that are not readily developable, because of physical or other limitations, should be given a lower priority for preservation. These areas can include steep slopes, floodplains and wetlands. These areas are not excluded completely from consideration because they are often valuable natural areas worthy of protection from disturbance. Vulnerable properties Some areas of the Township are under significant development pressure. These properties are available, located in zoning districts favorable to development, are of a size that appeal to developers, and are free of significant natural features that could hinder development. Properties with these characteristics that also have open space value should be given a high priority. Sustainability A parcel s contribution to the sustainability of agriculture, and the natural and historic resources of the Township should also be taken into consideration. Farming and related uses continue to play an important part in the community both as a source of income for farmers and for providing a local food source for residents and livestock. The natural and historic resources in the Township contribute to the quality of life in the Township. It is desirable to protect clusters of farmland because the long-term economic viability of agriculture is linked to maintenance of a critical mass of farmland, as well as minimization of intrusive land-use conflicts in its midst. It is also beneficial for natural areas to be preserved in clusters to protect plant and animal habitats. Preservation Focus Areas PA 413 Corridor The PA 413 Corridor Preservation Focus Area is found in the northwest area of the Township. The identified target area properties along PA 413/Durham Road between the villages of Pineville (located at the intersection of PA 413/Durham Road and Township Line Road) and Anchor (located at the intersection of PA 413/Durham Road and SR 232/Second Street Pike) are desirable for preservation because of their contribution to the rural character and the value of the viewshed in the corridor. The Township has identified the following properties as possible targets for preservation: Parcel Number Parcel Area (ac) WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

39 Swamp Road The Swamp Road Preservation Focus Area is seen as an opportune area for the linking of existing open space areas to create large areas of preserved open space. The area consists of agricultural lands, of which two farms are a part of the Bucks County Agricultural Land Preservation Program, and large lot residential uses. The PECO overhead utility corridor also passes through the focus area which, as discussed further in Chapter 7, may provide linkages to other open space. Within the Swamp Road Preservation Focus Area the Township has identified the following properties as possible targets for preservation: Parcel Number Parcel Area (ac) Wrightstown The Wrightstown Preservation Focus Area is located in and around Wrightstown village. The Middletown Grange property is centrally located within the preservation focus area. Preservation of the Grange property and adjacent properties through acquisition, easement, or other techniques would serve to protect the Grange Property. Preservation of the targeted properties would also contribute to protection of the viewsheds and surrounding Wrightstown village. Within the Wrightstown Preservation Focus Area the Township has identified the following properties as possible targets for preservation: Parcel Number Parcel Area (ac) Brownsburg Road The Brownsburg Road Preservation Focus Area, located in the northeastern part of the Township, is comprised of lands that are wooded and sloped. Several of these properties are of considerable size and located adjacent or in close proximity to each other, giving them potential for preservation. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 31

40 Within the Brownsburg Road Preservation Focus Area the Township has identified the following properties as possible targets for preservation: Parcel Number Parcel Area (ac) Adjacent Properties While specific properties have been listed in each of the areas of concentration the Township should consider other properties adjacent to or in the proximity of the areas of concentration. By applying the guiding principles to the analysis of a property, Township officials will have a sound basis for making decisions on future preservation or acquisition. The Gorski property (Parcel Number ) is one such example of a property adjacent to an already protected parcel. The Gorski property is a 60.8 acre parcel adjacent to the Bailey farm, on which the Township already holds a conservation easement. The fee-simple acquisition of the Gorski property or the acquisition of a conservation easement on the Gorski property would then link the two properties. The Virnelson property (Parcel Number ) located on Mill Creek Road is another property that should be considered for preservation given that it meets many of the criteria set forth by the guiding principles. The property contains 49.2 acres and contains areas of slopes and woodlands along Neshaminy Creek. This property may be worthy of preservation because of developable areas in the Buckingham Township portion of the site and because its important natural areas. 32 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

41 CHAPTER SEVEN POTENTIAL OPEN SPACE LINKAGES Open space links provide possible connections between local and regional points of interest within the Township, as well as among neighboring communities. Linked trails and greenways provide greater recreational, environmental, and scenic values than isolated parcels of land. Mapping of the various resources and utility rights-of-way provides an idea of the relationship among sections of the Township and the potential that may exist to establish linkages. Utility Corridor A PECO Overhead Utility Line Corridor crosses the western portion of the Township in a northsouth direction. The corridor has been mapped on Figure 8. Although these utility corridors provide the potential to interconnect facilities by providing open space linkages, their use may prove to be limited due to utility security concerns and the specific easement language written for each private property that the right-of-way traverses. At present the corridor is used for horseback riding, with access to the riding trails within Tyler State Park. Stream Corridors Mill Creek The Township of Wrightstown, Bucks County, Pennsylvania: An Open Space Plan (1998) indicated that discussions had taken place between Wrightstown Township and Buckingham Township to establish a connection along Mill Creek through the communities to connect with Neshaminy Creek. This connection would then, in the future, connect to the proposed County trail system along the Neshaminy Creek. This area can be considered a preservation greenway, without necessarily incorporating a trail. Neshaminy Creek The proposed Bucks County Greenway plan, to be published in 2011, proposes a greenway along the Neshaminy Creek as a link from Peace Valley Park to Neshaminy State Park. Proposed County Trail System One of the highest priorities of the Bucks County Park and Recreation Plan (1986) was to establish a link park along the Neshaminy Creek from Peace Valley Park in New Britain Township, through Tyler State Park and Core Creek Park, to Neshaminy State Park in Bensalem Township. That plan s first priority would be to connect Tyler and Neshaminy State Parks. The second priority would run between Wrightstown Township and Northampton Townships along the Neshaminy Creek. An update of this plan, now being prepared, continues to envision a greenway along the Neshaminy. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 33

42 Bike Routes There is one State-designated bike route in the Township. This route is a portion of BicylcePA Route S. The Route S follows Township Line Road, PA 413, Pine Lane, and Pineville Road and is one of seven bicycle routes that traverse the Commonwealth. Route S is the southernmost route extending 435 miles from Washington County in western Pennsylvania east to Washington Crossing Historic Park in Bucks County. Township Trail Planning Two trails are in the planning stages in Wrightstown. The first is a multi-use trail at Anchor Run Farm, which is illustrated in the master site plan for this Township-owned property. The Township s long-term plan to use a portion of Chippewa Farm for recreation includes consideration of a trail. 34 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

43 CHAPTER EIGHT NON-ACQUISITION TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES Municipalities have an array of tools and techniques at their disposal for preserving land for open space, natural resource, historic, and scenic protection as well as park and recreational purposes. This section details various ways of preserving open space and resource lands. Non acquisition techniques include local ordinance provisions and mandatory dedication/fee in lieu contributions. Acquisition techniques include: fee simple purchase, donation, and easements. NON-ACQUISITION TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES Wrightstown Township, as part of a Jointure of Upper Makefield, Newtown and Wrightstown townships, works toward the preservation of open space and the protection of agriculture through the Comprehensive Plan, the Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance (JMZO) and the local township subdivision and land development ordinance. Through the use of the JMZO and the subdivision and land development ordinance, the Township is able to protect open space and reserve recreational land without the expense of purchasing the land. These provisions include the use and district regulations, the Conservation Management Zoning District, natural resource protection standards, site capacity calculations, and mandatory dedication and fee-in-lieu contributions. Use and District Regulations The JMZO regulates permitted uses within the zoning districts, limiting certain districts to low intensity uses; requiring open space as part of cluster developments, performance subdivisions and planned residential developments; and requiring open space for residential use in specific zoning districts. Conservation Management District The CM Conservation Management District consists of valuable natural resources such as woodlands, agricultural soils, floodplains, wetlands, aquifer recharge areas, and areas of steep slopes. Agriculture is a significant and important use of land in the CM District. Uses are permitted in both type and intensity that require the protection of natural resources and encourage the continuation of farming activities. Within this zoning district no more than 25 percent of prime farmland or farmland of statewide importance (as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service) may be developed on sites containing 6 acres or more. Natural Resource Protection Standards The Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance has established maximum, quantifiable encroachment standards based on the capacity of natural features to withstand the effects of clearing and grading. The natural resource protection standards are intended to protect the Township s floodplains; floodplain soils; lakes, ponds, wetlands, and waters of the Commonwealth; steep slopes; woodlands; trees on wooded lots; agricultural soils (in the CM Conservation WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 35

44 Management District); aquifer recharge areas; and riparian buffer zones. The intensity and location of buildings and site alterations are limited by these standards, which are intended to accommodate disruption with minimal impacts on the site and areas beyond its boundaries. Site Capacity Calculations The zoning ordinance also requires a site capacity calculation, a procedure for site evaluation that limits the overall impacts of site development. Site capacity calculations are required to determine which areas of the site are most suited for development and at what density. Site capacity calculations serve the additional purpose of providing a calculated amount of required recreational or open space land. Mandatory Dedication/Fee in Lieu Contributions The Municipalities Planning Code allows local governments to mandate the dedication of recreation land to meet the recreation needs created by new development. A fee-in-lieu of dedication is also an option. Wrightstown Township s subdivision and land development ordinance requires a dedication of recreation land or a fee-in-lieu of such dedication that could be used for the purpose of purchasing and developing park and recreation land. Applicants must dedicate 1,500 square feet per dwelling for single-family detached developments. Single-family cluster and multifamily developments must adhere to the open space and recreation requirements of the zoning ordinance. Deed Restrictions As part of the subdivision and land development process, the Township and applicant can negotiate deed restrictions on all or portions of a property. The deed restricted area prohibits further development or subdivision. ACQUISITION METHODS Mechanisms used to acquire property rights are fee simple purchase, donation, and easements. The following is a brief overview of these options. The Township is quite familiar with and has effectively used these methods to build its open space network. Fee Simple Purchase Purchase of land in fee simple is the most direct technique of acquiring land for open space and recreation areas. The land is owned outright with all development rights included. The method is expensive but enables a community to use the land for a range of open space purposes because it owns the land. 36 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

45 Local governments can use many different revenue sources to purchase land, including general revenue funds, user fees, bond issues, and special fundraisers. Other county and state funding sources are also available for open space and recreational purposes, including the Bucks County Open Space Program and Community Conservation Partnerships Program (available through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources). Lease A lease is a conveyance and temporary possession/use of land for a prescribed period, in return for rent or some other compensation. Lease agreements may or may not be renewable and will be less than the landlord s term of ownership. The terms and conditions of a lease are contained in the lease agreement. The lease may provide for exclusive possession, responsibility for maintenance and insurance, and responsibility for liability. A lease may be appropriate in situations where the Township would like to take advantage of existing private recreational facilities and make them available for public use. The Township would not have to own the land, and payments would be lower than the cost of ownership. Donation Donation of land can be a gift of a parcel in fee simple or the gift of development rights or access. Land may be donated to local or county governments or to nonprofit organizations. Land donation makes the donor eligible for income tax deductions, which serve as an incentive for this type of acquisition. Third Party Conservation Easements and County Agricultural Easements Easements are specific property rights that are sold or donated by a property owner for the benefit of another party. Easement types include agricultural, conservation, access, façade, or scenic easements. For example, working with Bucks County s Agricultural Land Preservation Program and directly with property owners, Wrightstown Township can help landowners continue to retain private ownership while protecting farmland for agricultural use or retain the integrity of environmentally sensitive areas. The Township may also buy an easement from a landowner to permit access along one of its designated greenway routes and allow certain prescribed recreational activities such as hiking and biking. A conservation easement involves purchasing rights to preserve natural features and prevent activity that would harm these features. Easements permit the Township to meet open space and park and recreation objectives without actually owning the land. Other Policies and Methods In addition, the Township intends to use the following non-acquisition methods to preserve open space. Encourage farmers to apply to the Bucks County Agricultural Preservation Program The farmers enrolled in the Agricultural Security District are eligible to apply to the County program for preservation of farms. Supported jointly by the State and County, the program has been in operation since To be eligible for consideration, farms must be at least 50 acres in size, actively farmed and enrolled in the Agricultural Security Area. Farms are prioritized for inclusion WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 37

46 in the program based on many factors. Among the most important factors are the productivity of a farm, the threat from development, and the prospects for its continued successful operation. Work with Bucks County Agricultural Preservation Program on preserving eligible farms The Township has worked cooperatively with the County Agricultural Preservation Program to preserve farms that neither government entity could have preserved alone. Discuss conservation options with landowners such as donations, like-kind exchange, and other methods that involve tax savings The Township can accept donations of conservation easements. The Township holds and safeguards the easements in the same way that the County does. Donors may take a tax deduction just as they would if they were dealing with a nonprofit organization. Seek other funding and assistance The Township can seek other assistance with its open space program by seeking assistance from other governmental grants and or private foundations. Protection of Historic Resources The Township has prepared an inventory of historic sites and is working with the Jointure to develop regulations to protect its historic sites. Regulations will address demolition, use incentives, and protecting the context for historic buildings. 38 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

47 CHAPTER NINE GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATION AND FINANCING Wrightstown Township is a Township of the second class, governed by a three-member Board of Supervisors, each elected for a six year term. The Township maintains administrative offices at the municipal complex at the Chippewa Farm site on Second Street Pike. The Board of Supervisors contracts with professional advisors (i.e., solicitor and engineer) who assist in implementing local policies when necessary. The Supervisors also appoint citizens to serve on various municipal panels, including the Planning Commission, Environmental Advisory Council (EAC), Park and Recreation Board, Zoning Hearing Board, Historic Commission, Technical Review Board, Sewage Facilities Advisory Board, and Cable Advisory Board. Volunteer Commissions and Boards Planning Commission The Township Planning Commission works in conjunction with the Township Planner, and other Township boards, commissions, committees and councils, in advising the Board of Supervisors on all planning, zoning and traffic matters, reviews Conditional Use Applications and Land Development Plans, and examines traffic impact issues. Its nine members serve a four-year term. Open Space Committee The Open Space Committee serves in an advisory capacity and assists the Board of Supervisors in assessing the parks and open space needs of Township residents. The Open Space Committee members are made up of members of the Planning Commission and Environmental Advisory Council. Environmental Advisory Council The Environmental Advisory Council was established to protect the natural resources within the Township and create community awareness. The nine EAC members work together to build an environmentally sustainable community by championing and promoting natural resource conservation, consideration of environmental impacts in decision-making, education and awareness of environmental issues in Wrightstown Township. This plan is supported and will be implemented by the Board of Supervisors utilizing both paid Township consultants and volunteers from the existing volunteer commissions: the Planning Commission and the Environmental Advisory Council. FINANCING Potential open space opportunities will be brought to the Board of Supervisors for consideration. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 39

48 The citizens and officials of Wrightstown Township have been proactive in the raising of funds for open space preservation as evidenced by the approval of three referenda, each in the amount of 1.5 million dollars in the years 1995, 2002, and Township residents also approved an additional 0.25% earned income tax to be dedicated to open space preservation. The prioritizing and funding of open space opportunities will be a part of the Supervisors financial planning process. In addition to potential use of funds from tax millage and earned income tax referenda, there are other sources of funds that will be utilized to finance the selected open space opportunities. These sources include but are not limited to County, State, and Federal grants, private sector grants, and private landowners voluntary contributions. The appropriate source will be determined based upon the opportunity being pursued. 40 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

49 CHAPTER TEN IMPLEMENTATION The Township proposes action steps to fulfill its vision of open space preservation. Each action step relates back to specific goals and recommendations identified earlier in the plan. Some of the action steps involve the use of funds while others involve tools and techniques that can be used without public expenditure. The importance of landowner interest and cooperation in preservation cannot be overemphasized. No open space program would exist without willing landowners. For every tool that the Township considers using, there must be property a owner on the other end for whom the terms of preservation make sense. In many cases, a municipality can enhance the preservation philosophy by showing the benefits of preservation and by fostering public support and enthusiasm. Wrightstown has done this, and part of the implementation program is to continue to promote preservation as something that is good for everyone. The Township Open Space Committee established Guiding Principles and Areas of Concentration for open space preservation based upon the Township s goals and objectives. These Guiding Principles include the protection of viewsheds, preservation of parcels of 20 acres or more, preservation of vulnerable properties, and sustainability as discussed in the Preservation Focus Areas chapter. The Preservation Focus Areas map (shown in Figure 7) identifies the approximate location of these top priorities. The most effective means of protecting open space is by obtaining the development rights of a property by means of donation, fee simple purchase, or purchase of easements. This plan recommends donation when possible; otherwise, fee-simple purchase and/or purchase of development rights or easements using funding from the Bucks County Municipal Open Space Program or Township funds. Fee simple acquisition is the most costly to a municipality because the Township then owns the land outright. Township officials should continue to use a combination of preservation methods, based on the unique conditions of each preservation project and the wishes of the landowner. 1. Coordinate with the County regarding land and easement purchases through the Bucks County Open Space and Natural Areas Program. 2. Solicit owners of properties targeted in the Open Space Plan for preservation by sending letters in order to open a dialogue with Township officials. 3. Meet with State and national Grange officials to discuss the future of the Grange property and the possibility of the Township acquiring the property. 4. Use the funding from the Bucks County Municipal Open Space Program that has been allocated to Wrightstown. WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN 41

50 5. Promote the use of conservation easements that would allow private property owners to place conservation easements on their properties restricting all or a portion of the property from development and/or deed-restricting new parcels as appropriate. 6. Promote private initiatives in conjunction with public funding sources to protect strategic open space lands. 7. Consider designating locations for future public parks, playgrounds, and open space on an official map which provides a legal means for reserving such sites. Entity Responsible: Board of Supervisors Ongoing 1. Protect agricultural soils and natural resources through the Newtown Area Joint Municipal Zoning Ordinance (JMZO). 2. Require open space set asides as part of the development process. 42 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN

51 Appendix A. Summary of Protected Lands Form of Ownership / Site Tax Map Number(s) Description of Use(s) Degree of Public Access Description of Recreational Facilities Acreage Protected Lands State-Owned Lands Tyler State Park Passive Recreation Open to Public (during park hours) N/A 7.3 Subtotal = 7.3 County-Owned Lands,, Forks of the Neshaminy 093 Undeveloped Open space Open to Public (during park hours) N/A 11.1 Subtotal = 11.1 Township-Owned Lands Chippewa Farm Municipal complex Open to Public Future Recreation Facilities 62.6 Fluehr Farm Agriculture None None 7.3 Hipple Farm (Anchor Run Farm) Agriculture/Residential Open to Public None 60.9 Public Works Complex and Municipal complex Open to Public None 3.7 Neshaminy Cliffs Undeveloped Open Space None None 0.3 Octagonal Schoolhouse Historic site Open to Public (limited hours) None 0.9 The Village Library Library Open to Public None 0.6 Pheasant Lane Extension Undeveloped Open Space None None 1.1 Wicen Tract (Anchor Run Farm) and Agriculture Available to CSA Members (some areas open to public) None 40.9 Chapman's Corner Dedicated Open Space Available to all Township ResidentsNone 47.2 Chapman's Corner Dedicated Open Space Available to all Township ResidentsNone 1.8 Warner Meadows OS # Dedicated Open Space Available to all Township ResidentsNone 12.3 Warner Meadows OS # Dedicated Open Space Available to all Township ResidentsNone 9.2 Highlands OS # Dedicated Open Space Available to all Township ResidentsNone 8.8 Highlands OS # Dedicated Open Space Available to all Township ResidentsNone 15.7 Matthews Ridge OS # Dedicated Open Space Available to all Township ResidentsNone 4.5 Matthews Ridge OS # Dedicated Open Space Available to all Township ResidentsNone 16.4 Park Hill Parcel A Dedicated Open Space Available to all Township ResidentsNone 3.4 Loeffler OS Parcel Dedicated Open Space Available to all Township ResidentsNone 2.4 Subtotal = Bucks County Agricultural Land Preservation Program Stott-Cohen Farm/Kings Oaks Agriculture None N/A Trivellini Farm and Agriculture None N/A 58.1 Webb Farm and Agriculture None N/A 23.1 Daniels Farm Agriculture None N/A 5.9 Subtotal = Conservation Easements Held by Township Margaret A. Perry Agriculture None N/A 28.2 Bailey Farm Agriculture None N/A 36.7 Fisher Farm and Undeveloped Open Space None N/A 79.1 Newtown Land Settlement Undeveloped Open Space None N/A 24.5 Smith Farm and Agriculture None None 18.3 Subtotal = Conservation Easements Held by Heritage Conservancy Renny's Undeveloped Open Space None N/A 40.0 Renny's Undeveloped Open Space None N/A 14.9 Renny's Undeveloped Open Space None N/A 15.4 Jean Schmueckle Agriculture None N/A 29.2 Jean Schmueckle Agriculture None N/A 26.5 Brasko Undeveloped Open Space None N/A 9.9 Meister Undeveloped Open Space None N/A 0.7 Subtotal = 136.6

52 Appendix A. Summary of Protected Lands Form of Ownership / Site Tax Map Number(s) Description of Use(s) Degree of Public Access Description of Recreational Facilities Acreage Other Lands Homeowners Association Property Wrightstown Hunt Dedicated Open Space Available to Residents None 8.9 Subtotal = 8.9 School Property Wrightstown Elementary School Education Playground and athletic fields Council Rock School District Agriculture None None 72.9 Subtotal = 92.9 Northampton Township Owned Property Bryan Island Undeveloped Open Space None None 13.2 Subtotal = 13.2 Utility-Owned Property PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 0.07 NEW HOPE / IVYLAND RR Utility-Owned Property None N/A 0.1 NEW HOPE / IVYLAND RR Utility-Owned Property None N/A 0.3 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 1.4 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 3 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 6.7 NEW HOPE / IVYLAND RR Utility-Owned Property None N/A 0.09 NEW HOPE / IVYLAND RR Utility-Owned Property None N/A 0 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 1.4 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 0.6 NEW HOPE / IVYLAND RR Utility-Owned Property None N/A 0.04 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 2.7 PECO Utility-Owned Property Open to the public Boat ramp 1.6 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 3.7 NEW HOPE / IVYLAND RR Utility-Owned Property None N/A 0.2 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 7 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 5.5 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 5.4 NEW HOPE / IVYLAND RR Utility-Owned Property None N/A 0.9 NEW HOPE / IVYLAND RR Utility-Owned Property None N/A 0.9 NEW HOPE / IVYLAND RR Utility-Owned Property None N/A 1.8 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 3.8 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 1.5 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 0.7 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 3.7 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 17.5 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 6.1 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 0.6 PECO Utility-Owned Property None N/A 0.4 Subtotal = 77.7 GRAND TOTAL = *The Wurst Property is jointly owned by the Township and County.

53 BUCKS COUNTY MUNICIPAL OPEN SPACE PROGRAM Property Status Report Property Name: Municipality: Wrightstown Property Owner Name: Township of Wrightstown Tax Map Parcel#(s): Date of Visit: Are there any changes in the property? (e.g. construction, dredging or filling, trails, timber harvest, evidence of trespass, trash, flooding, fire, etc.) Attach current photos with sites marked on a map. Are these changes consistent with the terms and conditions of the easement? Any changes/improvements planned for property by municipality? RECOMMENDED ACTIONS: Monitor name and affiliation Signature of monitor

54 Resolution for Municipal Open Space Plan Update Adoption Township of Wrightstown, Bucks County, Pennsylvania RESOLUTION # WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors of the Township of Wrightstown recognizes that the Township contains open space and natural areas that contribute to the quality of life and economic health of our community which are worthy of preservation; and WHEREAS, the Bucks County Commissioners have renewed funding of the Bucks County Open Space Program through a referendum overwhelmingly passed by voters on November 6, 2007, the purpose of which is to protect in perpetuity those natural resource areas and farmlands deemed essential to preserve the unique character of Bucks County; and WHEREAS, the Bucks County Open Space Program provides an allocation of funding for protection of open space resources by municipalities provided that the municipality first prepares an approved municipal open space plan; and WHEREAS, the Township of Wrightstown, wishes to participate in the Municipal Grant Program; and NOW, THEREFORE, the Board of Supervisors of the Township of Wrightstown, Bucks County, Pennsylvania hereby resolves that the Township Open Space Plan, dated, prepared in compliance with the Municipal Open Space Plan Guidelines distributed by the Bucks County Open Space Program, has been discussed at a public meeting and is hereby adopted in its entirety in the form attached hereto, as the official Open Space Plan of the Township of Wrightstown; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this Resolution to be attached to, and made part of said Open Space Plan, and furthermore, that the Township of Wrightstown intends to take actions as appropriate to implement the goals of the Open Space Plan. This Resolution has been duly prepared and adopted by the Governing Body of the Township of Wrightstown in a public meeting held this day of, ATTEST: By: Chairman

55 Rushland Rd Washington Ave Park Ave Pine Ln Curls Run FIGURE 1 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN Swamp Rd Swamp Rd Mill Creek Rd Swamp Rd Penns Park Rd Second Street Pk/SR 232 Cedar Rd Mill NESHAMINY Penns Cherry Ln Second Street Pk/SR 232 Durham Rd/SR 413 Brownsburg Rd Windy Bush Rd/SR 232 DELAWARE RIVER (SOUTH) Thompson Mill Rd Brownsburg Rd Jericho Hydrological Resources Watercourses/Waterbodies Floodplains/Alluvial Soils Wetlands/Hydric Soils Watershed Classifications PRIMARY Secondary Park Rd Mud Rd Wrightstown Rd Worthington Mill Rd Durham Rd/SR 413 Newtown Houghs 0 1,600 3,200 4,800 Scale in Feet

56 ing e Av sh Wa Rd Ln ton Rd ek e r lc Mil e Av Steep Slopes Rd Rd/S R Durh am sp a rk Cherry Ln Pe nn 413 Ce dar Rd 8-15 Percent Percent am Sw pr ond Sec d Stre 232 SR / k et P 25 Percent and Greater 232 Brownsburg Rd rk Penns Pa Rd Thompson Mill Rd Bro wn sbu rg Rd Rd Second Street Pk/SR s Bu y ind W R d/s R h 2 23 Mu d Swamp Rd d rk Pa nd Rushla Swam pr Pi ne FIGURE 2 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN d town R Wrights ha Dur l Rd n Mil o t g hin Wort 13 R4 d /S mr 0 1,600 3,200 Scale in Feet 4,800

57 Rushland Rd Washington Ave Park Ave Pine Ln FIGURE 3 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN Swamp Rd Swamp Rd Mill Creek Rd Penns Park Rd Cedar Rd Cherry Ln Durham Rd/SR 413 Windy Bush Rd/SR 232 Woodlands Woodlands Swamp Rd Second Street Pk/SR 232 Second Street Pk/SR 232 Penns Park Brownsburg Rd Thompson Mill Rd Brownsburg Rd Rd Mud Rd Wrightstown Rd Worthington Mill Rd Durham Rd/SR ,600 3,200 4,800 Scale in Feet

58 Rushland Rd Washington Ave Park Ave Pine Ln FIGURE 4 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN Swamp Rd Swamp Rd Mill Creek Rd Swamp Rd Penns Park Rd Cedar Rd Cherry Ln Second Street Pk/SR 232 Durham Rd/SR 413 Windy Bush Rd/SR 232 Prime Agricultural Soils Prime Farmland Soils Additional Farmland of Statewide Importance Second Street Pk/SR 232 Penns Park Brownsburg Rd Thompson Mill Rd Brownsburg Rd Rd Mud Rd Wrightstown Rd Worthington Mill Rd Durham Rd/SR ,600 3,200 4,800 Scale in Feet

59 Rushland Rd Wycombe VIllage Pine Ln FIGURE 5 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN Swamp Rd Swamp Rd 9 Mill Creek Rd Swamp Rd Penns Park Rd 3 Cedar Rd Washington Ave Cherry Ln Park Ave 12 Second Street Pk/SR 232 Durham Rd/SR 413 Windy Bush Rd/SR 232 Historic Resources and Scenic Roads National Register Listed Property Penns Park General Store Complex/Gains Property William Smith House Vansant Farmhouse Waldenmark Isaiah Warner Farmstead Wrightstown Friends Meeting House Octagonal School House Gropius House National Register Eligible Property 11 7 Second Street Pk/SR Penns Park Penns Park Rd Wrightstown Brownsburg Rd Thompson Mill Rd Brownsburg Rd Richard Mitchell House Isaac Chapman Farmstead Moister Property Hipple Property Heritage Conservancy Register National Register Listed District Penns Park Wycombe Village Mud Rd 6 Wrightstown Rd National Register Eligible District Wrightstown Scenic Road Worthington Mill Rd Durham Rd/SR /8 0 1,600 3,200 4,800 Scale in Feet

60 Rushland Rd Park Ave Pine Ln FIGURE 6 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN Swamp Rd Swamp Rd Mill Creek Rd Swamp Rd Penns Park Rd Cedar Rd Washington Ave Cherry Ln Durham Rd/SR 413 Windy Bush Rd/SR 232 Inventory of Protected Lands Protected Open Space State-Owned Lands County-Owned Lands Township-Owned Lands Second Street Pk/SR 232 Ln Bucks County Agricultural Preservation Program Heritage Conservancy Conservation Easements Second Street Pk/SR 232 Pheasant Brownsburg Rd Thompson Mill Rd Township Conservation Easements Penns Park Rd Brownsburg Rd Other Lands Homeowners Association Mud Rd Wrightstown Rd Worthington Mill Rd Durham Rd/SR 413 School Property Utility-Owned Property 0 1,600 3,200 4,800 Scale in Feet

61 Rushland Rd Park Ave Pine Ln FIGURE 7 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN Swamp Rd Swamp Rd Mill Creek Rd Penns Park Rd Cedar Rd Washington Ave Cherry Ln PA 413 Corridor Focus Area Durham Rd/SR 413 Windy Bush Rd/SR 232 Preservation Focus Areas Target Areas Protected Open Space State-Owned Lands County-Owned Lands Township-Owned Lands Swamp Rd Second Street Pk/SR 232 Bucks County Agricultural Preservation Program Second Street Pk/SR 232 Swamp Road Focus Area Mud Rd Penns Park Rd Wrightstown Focus Area Worthington Mill Rd Ln Pheasant Wrightstown Rd Durham Rd/SR 413 Brownsburg Rd Thompson Mill Rd Brownsburg Rd Brownsburg Road Focus Area Other Lands Heritage Conservancy Conservation Easements Township Conservation Easements Homeowners Association School Property Utility-Owned Property 0 1,600 3,200 4,800 Scale in Feet

62 Rushland Rd Park Ave Pine Ln FIGURE 8 WRIGHTSTOWN TOWNSHIP OPEN SPACE PLAN Swamp Rd Swamp Rd Mill Creek Rd Penns Park Rd Cedar Rd Washington Ave Cherry Ln Durham Rd/SR 413 Windy Bush Rd/SR 232 Open Space Linkages Mill Creek Greenway Neshaminy Creek Greenway Proposed Township Walking Trail Existing Bike Route Swamp Rd Second Street Pk/SR 232 PECO Ln Second Street Pk/SR 232 Pheasant Brownsburg Rd Thompson Mill Rd Penns Brownsburg Rd Park Rd Mud Rd Wrightstown Rd Worthington Mill Rd Durham Rd/SR ,600 3,200 4,800 Scale in Feet