Soque Scenic Byway Corridor Management Plan
Transcription
Soque Scenic Byway Corridor Management Plan
! Soque Scenic Byway Corridor Management Plan ! Table of Contents 3 Background 4 Introduction 5 Issues and Opportunities 7 Vision and Goals 8 Existing Conditions 9 Intrinsic Qualities 16 Implementation 17 Maintaining and Enhancing Intrinsic Qualities 20 Corridor Management Considerations 25 Promotion and Development Strategies 26 Appendix 2 Soque Scenic Byway Background Why this plan was prepared This plan was created to promote tourism and increase economic development in Habersham County. The Corridor Management Plan (CMP) is written based on recommendations and input from the entire community. Designation as a scenic byway would help preserve the byway’s rural character by emphasizing scenic and natural areas along the route. There are only 14 other scenic byways in the state of Georgia, so designation would also create unique marketing and economic opportunities for all communities along the byway. Scope of the plan This Corridor Management Plan provides general guidance and offers support for all stakeholders along the proposed route. The plan carries with it no regulation or infringement on private property. The information presented here simply describes possible steps and actions that could serve to maintain the strong scenic, natural, historic, and recreation resources and character of the Soque Scenic Byway. Route Description The Soque Scenic Byway is a 46.9-mile long route in the northern portion of Habersham County. Much of the route parallels the Soque River. The byway passes through downtown Clarkesville and several smaller communities. Travelers along the route experience a variety of settings including magnificent vistas of the river and mountains; woodlands, forests and creeks; various parks, preserves and conservation areas; small farms, agricultural and rural countryside; a smalltown main street; diverse and distinctive architecture; and, most importantly, the Soque River corridor itself. Of the 46.9 miles, approximately 37.53 are state highway route miles of which 1.58 miles are located within the City of Clarkesville. The remaining 9.37 miles are county roads (Source Planning and Programming Engineer, Georgia Department of Transportation). The route functions in a number of different capacities including through traffic, local service, commercial traffic, and recreational traffic. All portions of the route are maintained for year round use. Portions of the route have been unofficially designated “Scenic 197.” BACKGROUND 3 Soque Scenic Byway Introduction What is a Scenic Byway? A Georgia Scenic Byway is defined as any designated highway, street, road, or route, which significantly features certain intrinsic qualities that should be protected or enhanced. Intrinsic qualities are the resources along a byway that define its character, interest, and appeal. Six types of intrinsic qualities are considered in regard to scenic byway designation: scenic, historic, natural, cultural, archeological, and recreational. Intrinsic qualities should be within the view shed of the byway, that is, visible from one or more viewing points on the byway, and those qualities must relate or contribute to the distinctive character of the region. What does designation mean? Achieving designation at the state level is expected to be a grassroots, bottom-up process that is controlled by local stakeholders. Any individual or group in a community can initiate the application process. In as much as it is a bottom-up, voluntary process, it is important that public participation be strong throughout the application process: from deciding whether or not to nominate a route, to identifying the sites and features that make the route eligible, to planning for the proposed byway’s future. What is a Corridor Management Plan? A Corridor Management Plan (CMP) is a guide for the future promotion, preservation, and enhancement of a scenic byway. The plan is a result of local governments, community organizations, and byway residents working together to establish goals and objectives they hope to achieve through designation. These goals may include: promotion of tourism, protection of historic and natural resources, and/or preservation of scenic views. This CMP is based upon existing land use plans and patterns. Property owners and stakeholders have reviewed this CMP and have provided comments and recommendations to assist in protecting and promoting the byway. The CMP is not a document of new laws, regulations, or ordinances. Designation in no way means that the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) will exercise eminent domain or that the likelihood of such an action will be increased. Designation also will not impact residents’ ability to secure additional curb cuts/access points. GDOT’s driveway permitting process is not altered by the route’s scenic byway designation. GDOT expressly disclaims any financial or other legal responsibilities by designation of local roadways as a scenic byway. Byway designation is, however, based on the route’s intrinsic qualities, which will be protected through local land use plans. INTRODUCTION 4 Soque Scenic Byway Issues and Opportunities Issues The proposed Soque Scenic Byway is fortunate in that the corridor is well preserved and has few blighted areas, signs, and other existing issues that would need to be changed. The issues concern development and focusing changes in directions that promote the values of the Byway. Current issues and possible solutions/recommendations are listed below: 1. The promotion of tourism is seen as a significant driver of development in Habersham County. The Byway would provide a vehicle for advertising the scenic, recreational, historic, and cultural facilities of the county. In many instances, facilities already exist that can support greater public use such as the public rest rooms in Clarkesville and public accommodations along the route. However, other than Pitts Park in Clarkesville and Panther Creek Recreation Area, there are limited public recreational facilities along the route. Working with the Forest service, GDOT, Habersham County, the Soque River Watershed Association, and businesses along the route, the Byway Committee would work to develop increased and safe public access to the Soque River for fishing, hiking, and picnicking. Other facilities that could be considered are additional pullouts and parking areas along the route on existing public property and/or at places where such facilities would be compatible with private ownership and use. 2. Directional and informational signage would be needed along the route. Directional signage would be provided in the normal course. The Byway Committee hopes to develop informational signage that would incorporate both traditional roadside signs and new media information techniques such as QR links to the Web, MP3 audio tour guides, and the like. 3. Along the route there are certain buildings and vistas that should be preserved as integral to the byway experience. The Byway Committee would work with the owners of those properties to find ways to protect those sites. In addition, Habersham County land use regulations would be developed and applied with consideration given to the existence of the byway. 4. The route of the Soque Scenic Byway includes three extensions from Highway 197 to the Habersham County boundary that are intended to link possible future byways in Rabun (Highway 197 toward Lake Burton) and White County (Highway 255 toward Sautee and Highway 356 toward Unicoi). The Byway Committee would continue to work with those counties to develop and promote a regional grouping of scenic byways. Such a grouping of byways and other facilities for tourists and visitors could become a focus for one or more regional welcome centers along Georgia Highway 365/US 441. 5. In the one parcel along the route of the proposed byway that is currently blighted (an area where buildings are abandoned or in severe disrepair), the Byway Committee and Habersham County will work to remove the blighting condition and/or to further screen them from view ISSUES & OPPORTUNITIES 5 Soque Scenic Byway of passing motorists. In all areas, the Committee would encourage the preservation and planting of native species of flora along the route of the byway. Opportunities Preservation of rural character and beauty along the byway The Soque River and other streams, majestic mountain views, bucolic pastures, historic homes and churches, quaint towns and villages, among other visual delights, are all scenes to be enjoyed along the proposed route. This variety of landscapes is only one of the things that makes northeast Georgia so special and such a draw for visitors. The Byway Committee will work with such organizations as the Mountain Conservation Trust of Georgia, local land trusts, and the GDOT’s Scenic Byways Program as well as with local businesses and property owners to conserve highly visible properties along scenic byways and curb the threat of obtrusive development. Promotion of tourism and economic development The proposed byway will provide a focus for the tourism development activities of businesses, trade associations, local governments, and the state of Georgia. Among the tools and strategies available for marketing and promoting the byway corridor and informing visitors are: brochures, maps, posters, digital media apps, websites, and social media. The Byway Committee will work with local members of the community, businesses, organizations, and the media to create and update materials and content related to the byway and its features. Protection of historic and archaeological landmarks Protecting historic and archaeological landmarks along the byway is essential to maintaining the essential quality of the byway and can be achieved by a number of strategies, including: • • • • Building awareness Effective communication Encouraging appropriate actions by private individuals, nonprofit private organizations, and all levels of government Recognizing examples of successful maintenance and enhancement of intrinsic qualities The Clarkesville Main Street Program is an example of a highly effective preservation effort, recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, to work with downtown building owners for the protection of historic characteristics. ISSUES & OPPORTUNITIES 6 Soque Scenic Byway Vision and Goals Vision Statement The Soque Scenic Byway will highlight what is already an exceptional feature of the region’s appeal to residents and visitors alike — Scenic Highway 197 itself. The most significant and attractive aspects of the byway will continue to be its spectacular scenic vistas, access to the Soque River and its resources, and the unique communities along the byway. The economic climate will be enhanced through careful promotion of the byway and its resources. This will enable communities to retain their character and quality of life while reaping the economic benefits of tourism promotion, such as jobs resulting from increased tourism and business activity in the area. The byway’s main community will have a vibrant, revitalized main street. The visitor experience will be heightened through convenient and attractive facilities like turn-offs and overlooks, restrooms, and picnic areas. The byway itself will be safe for automobiles and commercial traffic, which is so vital to the area, while the Byway Committee will work to enhance opportunities for pedestrian and non-motorized activities along the route. Visitors will have exceptional year-round experiences due to the abundant dining and recreational choices available as well as the hospitality of the area’s residents. Plan Goals Plan goals include: • • • Promotion of tourism including creating marketing materials Protection of historic and natural resources Preservation of scenic views and maintenance of natural environment VISION & GOALS 7 Soque Scenic Byway Existing Conditions Roadway Description SR 197 Two-lane, two-way roadway with average lane widths of 10 to 12 feet SR 255 and SR 356 Two-lane, two-way roadways with average lane widths of 12 feet The district engineer advises that there are no special maintenance needs on these routes at this time. There is one upcoming resurfacing project on SR 197 from US 441 to Clarkesville. This project is currently unfunded and therefore does not have a tentative start date. The district engineer further advises that GDOT already has in its Long Range Program Project PI No. 0006672, which proposes to widen SR 197 from SR 365 to CR 202/Tech School Road. The designation of SR 197 as a scenic byway would have no impact on this project provided that the proposed widening would not adversely impact any of the existing intrinsic qualities of that portion of the route. Land Use With the exception of North Georgia Technical College and a few existing businesses, Agricultural (AG) and Low Intensity (LI) land use mapping districts border the byway. Definitions for AG and LI are listed below: Agricultural Protection (AG): Land that is used for bona-fide agricultural purposes is classified as Agricultural Protection. Such property may also include certain types of dwellings and home businesses or cottage industries. Low Intensity (LI): Properties found in rural areas that are a mixture of cropland, poultry, residences, other land uses, and large undeveloped tracts of land, where urban services such as public water and sewer are unavailable, may be assigned to this district depending on its use. The uses in these two mapping districts are residential and agricultural. Official Land Use Intensity District for Habersham County document can be found in the Appendix A. EXISTING CONDITIONS 8 Soque Scenic Byway Intrinsic Qualities Overview Assessment of Intrinsic Qualities The proposed Soque Scenic Byway possesses abundant intrinsic qualities in all six categories recognized by the Georgia State Scenic Byway Program. Outstanding Scenic and Natural Qualities (Scenic, Natural) Of these intrinsic qualities, the scenic and natural qualities of the proposed Soque Scenic Byway are perhaps the most outstanding and unique. These qualities intertwine as an inherent part of the byway experience along each segment including: the Soque River, expansive views of the northeast Georgia mountains, historic Downtown Clarkesville, and the quaint village of Batesville. Designated a Southern Highroads Trail, the picturesque views of mountains, valleys, streams and the Soque River, as well as the quaint architecture of a historic town and village, offer byway visitors marvelous sights and vistas at every turn. Loudermilk Mill Clarkesville Square Panther Creek Additionally, these scenic opportunities connect people with nature and hospitality. "Experience Clarkesville” is the current marketing theme for the city of Clarkesville. This theme celebrates the opportunities found in the downtown and surrounding area to make connections between people, events, history, and nature. The diversity of landscapes, including the variety of plant and wild life each landscape supports, as well as the rich historic character and ambience of a bustling downtown, further enriches these connections and people’s visual experiences. The byway follows the Soque River and other beautiful mountain streams with historic mills, trout fishing opportunities, and hiking trails. Thousands of Years of Culture and History (Archaeological, Historic, Cultural) Clarkesville – long known as a tourist spot - is steeped in culture and history. Perhaps the first tourist in the area was the Spanish explorer De Soto who passed through what would become the city of Clarkesville in about 1540. The DeSoto Rock, thought to have been touched by DeSoto INTRINSIC QUALITIES 9 Soque Scenic Byway himself as he was traveling through, still stands today as a historical marker in the Clarkesville Square. Shortly after DeSoto’s visit, Cherokee Indians began to inhabit the area. DeSoto Rock The Cherokees, whose name means "Upland Fields," had a population of around 11,000 in several settlements in Habersham County. One of these was at "Sakwi-yi," or "Su-ki" (Soque), on the river, near where Clarkesville is today. The Soque River was named for this settlement. The Unicoi Turnpike, from the Savannah River to the Tennessee River, passed through this village. The Soque River is significant today as a major trout stream and the only river in the state of Georgia that begins and ends in the same county. Many old mills are located along the Soque River and on or near the proposed byway route. Among those stands the century-old Watts Grist Mill. Use of this site dates back to both the Cherokee and the later Creek Indians. Settlers arrived shortly after the fourth land lottery and almost immediately built a mill to take advantage of the water power of the Soque River. Milling on the site continued until the spring of 1969 when “Mark of the Potter” came into being. Today, artists at Mark of the Potter, located in the reconstructed mill, make pottery and sell other folk art from Mark of the Potter North Georgia. Four different potters offer live demonstrations of turning pots in the rear of the store. A historic mill wheel under the rear porch reminds patrons of the store's humble beginnings as a mill dating back to 1821. Other notable mills along the route include Sutton Mill and Loudermilk Mill both of which are over 100 years Glen-Ella Springs Inn old. Archeological remnants in the form of pottery shards and arrowheads can still be found on the banks of the Soque River. Cultural activities can be found in local museums, Glen-Ella Springs Inn (a nationally recognized historic country inn which dates back to the late 19th century), historic churches, as well as several historic and cultural arts and crafts festivals celebrated annually along the route. INTRINSIC QUALITIES 10 Soque Scenic Byway The Moonshine Highway The making of moonshine, or unlicensed liquor distilled from corn, was a common business throughout the South particularly during the tough years of the Great Depression. The climate for such a business was perfect in the lonely, northern portions of Habersham County. In the wilds north of Clarkesville, it involved a rapid cruise down a winding road now known as Highway 197, the primary leg of our proposed byway route. The highway was a dirt road in those days and was well known to “revenue agents” as a frequent thoroughfare for still operators and bootleggers. With all the twists, turns, and heavily wooded areas, there was no problem for law officers to find a hiding place to watch the road. This resulted in many tales that are still told today of Habersham County’s famed “Moonshine Highway.” The diverse heritage of the area, as well as the cultural traditions and celebrations that residents hold each year, also provide many other educational opportunities for visitors. Historic Homes/Churches/Festivals (Scenic, Historic, Cultural, Recreational) Historic homesteads and churches can be found all along the proposed route of the Soque Scenic Byway. These sites are special in the area and distinct from other historic sites because they represent a way of life that is rapidly disappearing throughout America. Clarkesville was a resort town for many years catering to coastal residents trying to escape the heat and diseases of the low-lying areas. Delighting in the climate, some of the visitors bought land and built summer homes. Others found ample room in one of Clarkesville's many hotels. During the course of its history, many people have enjoyed their stays in Clarkesville including Andrew Jackson and Jarvis Van Buren, a cousin of Jackson’s vice president and successor, Martin Van Buren. The summer home of Joseph Habersham (the Revolutionary War soldier, mayor of Savannah, and third Postmaster General of the United States and for whom Habersham county was named) still stands today less than two miles from downtown Clarkesville. Historic Downtown Clarkesville includes two historic districts and 19 significant properties, many of which are listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. A self-guided Walking Tour is currently offered to residents and visitors alike and provides a window to the town’s past by sharing the history of these sites and many others. Mauldin House INTRINSIC QUALITIES The Historic Mauldin House, which serves as the city’s visitor center, provides multi-media exhibits and guided tours highlighting the history of the late 19th century farmhouse, its 11 Soque Scenic Byway accompanying Millinery shop, and Big Holly Cabin. The Mountain Laurel Festival, an annual arts and crafts festival, is held in May, and visitors are treated to a variety of activities including Appalachian lifestyle demonstrations, as well as authentic bluegrass pickin’ on the porch of the Cabin. The Batesville Days Festival, Heirloom Tomato Festival, Soque River Festival, and A Taste of Clarkesville, also held annually, all honor the fine tradition of folk art, food, and music. Old churches are iconic along the path of the proposed route. They connect us to the rich history and religious Heirloom Tomato Festival culture here and are essential to the sense of place in Clarkesville. The churches located along the Soque Scenic Byway are some of the oldest in the state, including Grace- Calvary Episcopal Church, which is believed to be the oldest church building of any denomination still in use in north Georgia. Other iconic churches include: New Liberty Methodist, Macedonia Church, Unity Church, Oakey Mountain Church, Alley’s Chapel, Daes Chapel, and First Presbyterian Church of Clarkesville. Remnants of the area’s rich history exist all along the byway, including the above-mentioned historic sites, buildings, districts, museum displays of artifacts, churches, and homes that span the eras from exploration to homesteading and settlement. Art Galleries, Studios, Education Centers, and Potteries Open to the Public (Scenic, Historic, Cultural, Recreational) Alley’s Chapel The creative culture of the proposed Soque Scenic Byway shines through in the many art galleries, studios, potteries, and crafts shops found along the byway. A vibrant array of arts and crafts can be enjoyed by visitors and residents alike. Local pottery studios showcase designs that are inspired by the original settlers as well as other themes. INTRINSIC QUALITIES 12 Soque Scenic Byway Mark of the Potter, mentioned earlier, is one of the oldest craft shops in the entire state of Georgia that is still in its original location. Many types of arts and crafts including wood carving and wood working, glass, metalwork, textiles, yard art, watercolors, oils and pastels, photography, sculpture, jewelry, and other media can be found in various studios and galleries along the route. Some of these galleries include: Burton Gallery, Hickory Flat Pottery, Soque Art Works, Mountain Gallery, Serendipity Stained Glass, and Cottage Garden. The diversity of arts and crafts on display in galleries, studios, potteries, and many outdoor settings, enrich the visitor experience and reflect how the scenic beauty of the Northeast Georgia Mountains has inspired those involved in creative arts. North Georgia Technical College, Mark of the Potter (NGTC), the first vocational school in Georgia, is located along the byway route. NGTC offers a state-of-the-art photography program and is also home to the Georgia School for Professional Photography. A strong commitment to the arts and creativity is an important part of the local culture. City of Clarkesville - Historic Downtown/Courthouse/Buildings (Scenic, Historic, Cultural, Recreational) Clarkesville, the county seat of Habersham, received its charter in 1823. The city was named for General John C. Clarke, governor of Georgia in 1819 and 1821, or his father, General Elijah Clarke, a revolutionary war hero, according to various versions of the city's history. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Clarkesville’s rich history and unique charm have made it a favorite destination for travelers. Today, this friendly community prides itself on its welcoming disposition, even being recognized by Blue Ridge Country Magazine in 2012 as a “Friendliest City.” Downtown Clarkesville is the social and cultural heart of the community. Visitors can explore an assortment of award-winning restaurants, antiques shops, gift boutiques, a community theater, galleries, and museums—all within easy walking distance of the downtown square. Downtown Clarkesville INTRINSIC QUALITIES Clarkesville’s rich history, evident in the notable wooden buildings in the downtown core, are protected under the city’s historic 13 Soque Scenic Byway preservation program. In 1820 a post office, named "Habersham Court House," began operation with Walter Adair as the first Postmaster. After the charter was granted in 1823, the city was surveyed and laid out. Streets were named for presidents Washington, Jefferson, Madison, and Monroe, and for Benjamin Franklin and generals Greene, Wayne, and Marion of the American Revolution. Early travelers arrived in Clarkesville via stagecoach. After 1873, trains became a popular method of transportation. Around 1910, a streetcar, running between the Clarkesville depot on the Tallulah Falls Railway line on the eastern edge of the city and the Square, carried visitors to and from the center of town. Around 1924, a paved road from Clarkesville to Cornelia, the first paved road in Georgia north of Atlanta, further increased the ease of traveling to the city. Charm House Many historic buildings and sites have been preserved throughout the town and along the byway route. One example is the Charm House. The five bedroom, five and a half bath home that includes custom plaster moldings, marble baths, black walnut flooring and numerous fireplaces was built in 1907 and is listed on The National Register of Historic Places. The Charm House has served as a bed and breakfast, a restaurant, and a medical clinic and currently serves as a private residence. Another example, the Habersham Community Theater (HCT), was built in 1937 as a movie theater. Now a showplace for the arts, HCT provides live theatre and musical performances for the residents and visitors of Northeast Georgia. Clarkesville’s history has influenced much of the area’s culture we see today. The locals are protective of their history, and Clarkesville is maintained as an authentic small town, rich with culture due in part to the surrounding landscape of pastoral countryside and mountain views. Abundant Recreation Opportunities (Scenic, Natural, Historic, Cultural, Recreational) The opportunities to recreate on land and in the water along the proposed Soque Scenic Byway seem infinite. Many of these lead to further opportunities to interact with other intrinsic qualities. Wildlife watching, bicycling, trout fishing, hiking, picnicking, photography, sightseeing, learning about history, experiencing INTRINSIC QUALITIES Fly Fishing 14 Soque Scenic Byway local culture, camping, golfing, horseback riding, dining and wine tasting are all popular activities. Encouraging visitors to experience these recreation opportunities with green tourism and sustainable tourism values in mind is an important goal of the scenic byway. Panther Creek Falls and Recreation Area Near the northern terminus of the proposed byway lies Panther Creek Recreation Area from which a popular trail runs to Panther Creek Falls. The National Forest Service maintains a parking area with picnic facilities and restrooms just off Historic Highway 441. Panther Creek Falls Trail (5.5 miles in length) follows Panther Creek through stands of hemlock and white pine trees along the steep, rocky bluffs above the creek. The trail passes a series of cascades as well as Panther Creek Falls to its end just below the falls where Davidson Creek joins Panther Creek. The trail is noted for its beautiful variety of wildflowers and ferns. The stream offers excellent opportunities for trout fishermen. HiketheSouth.com says of the Panther Creek Trail, “one of the best hikes in north Georgia, Panther Creek offers a relatively easy trail with an impressive waterfall as the payoff.” For the avid hiker, the trail can be extended beyond the falls to Yonah Dam Road on the South Carolina border. Another recreational area that could be connected to the Soque Panther Creek Falls Scenic Byway, which lies just north of the northern end of the proposed byway, is Tallulah Gorge and State Park, once known as the “Niagara Falls of the South.” Said to be one of the oldest geological features in North America, Tallulah Gorge has been forming for thousands of years. Prehistoric Indians discovered the canyon and hunted both along its rim and in its deep bottom. Tallulah Gorge is a magnificent feature of our proposed byway and encompasses all intrinsic qualities. If the linking scenic byway were created in Rabun County, the Tallulah Gorge area would be a likely site for a regional welcome center and tourist information office. Similarly located on a possible scenic byway in White County is another Georgia State Park, Unicoi, at Robertstown. East of the southern end of the proposed byway is Lake Russell Recreation Area of the U.S. Forest Service that provides camping, water activities, and hiking trails. INTRINSIC QUALITIES 15 Soque Scenic Byway Implementation As part of the byway application process, local, state, and/or federal government agencies were notified of Habersham County’s interest in creating a Georgia Scenic Byway. Community organizations that had been or might be involved with the byway designation were also identified and notified as part of the application process. They were: • • • • • • Georgia Department of Transportation City of Clarkesville Habersham County Commissioners Clarkesville Main Street National Forest Service Habersham County Chamber of Commerce • Clarkesville Business & Community Association • Soque River Watershed Association Scenic 197 Association Habersham County Farm Bureau Outdoor Advertising Association of Georgia All property and business owners along the proposed route • • • • Community Input Various efforts were made by the Scenic Byway Committee to gather public input and support for the byway. Property owners along the byway were sent written invitations to attend public meetings, and local civic groups and jurisdictions were personally addressed by members of the Byway Commission (see Appendix B). Newspapers ads and meeting notices were distributed to publicize public meetings and local newspapers ran several articles dealing with various aspects of the byway to keep the public informed on the designation process (see Appendix C). The first public meeting was held January 9, 2014 to introduce the byway and to receive public input on the plan and how to proceed. The Byway Committee and the Georgia Department of Transportation introduced the project and gave a slide presentation. The presentation focused on introducing the Georgia Scenic Byways program and resources along the proposed byway. The presentation included: • • • • A review of the project’s purpose, A discussion of resources along the byway, Overview of the Corridor Management Plan, and Questions and answers After the team concluded its presentation, meeting attendees discussed the corridor’s vision and goals, and each attendee was encouraged to list the byway’s assets, challenges, accomplishments, and priority projects. The team consolidated information based on input from that discussion, which can be found in the public comments results section in Appendix D. IMPLEMENTATION 16 Soque Scenic Byway Strategies for Maintaining and Enhancing Intrinsic Qualities Preservation and Enhancement Strategies The Soque Scenic Byway Committee is committed to maintaining and enhancing the intrinsic qualities along the route - including the historic and archeological characteristics. The route of the proposed byway is in excellent condition at this time because it has been maintained by property owners, businesses, and local and state governments in ways that preserve the intrinsic qualities of the route. No change is needed to preserve those values because they are currently being preserved. The only things needed are steps to assist the continuing preservation of the existing outstanding natural and scenic beauty of the route to open the area to more people who will enjoy such a bucolic region. To achieve this, the byway committee will work with property owners, businesses, and local governments to: • • • • Build awareness of the byway and the intrinsic qualities of the route To communicate the value and benefits of the byway effectively to both residents of the area and potential visitors Encourage appropriate actions by private individuals and businesses, nonprofit organizations, and all levels of government Recognize examples of successful maintenance and enhancement of intrinsic qualities Scenic Preservation and Enhancement Strategies In working with private individuals and businesses, nonprofit organizations, and all levels of government to preserve and enhance the scenic qualities of the proposed byway, the Committee may: • • • • • Work with property owners on conservation easements to reduce taxation on appropriate properties while reducing the amount of development that could otherwise happen so as to protect the scenic qualities of the byway Create vantage points and other amenities and use vegetation management to preserve open vistas of the Soque River, mountains, natural vegetation, and rural scenery, including farmland Prepare landscaping plans to preserve view sheds and reduce blight, which is defined as an area where buildings are abandoned or in severe disrepair Work with GDOT to maintain or improve scenic impact of road projects and, where possible, tie in a Scenic Byway project Establish a litter clean-up program STRATEGIES 17 Soque Scenic Byway • Initiate and coordinate a “Keep the Byway Beautiful” campaign using GDOT, community service volunteers, and/or Adopt-A-Mile volunteers. Use clubs and individuals to form a team to keep the byway clean and free from litter Historic Preservation and Enhancement Strategies In working with private individuals and businesses, nonprofit organizations, and all levels of government to preserve and enhance the historic qualities of the proposed scenic byway, the Committee may: • • • • • • Conduct additional research into the major and lesser known historic sites to create an inventory as a basis for interpretive materials and programs Educate property owners on façade improvement grants and restoration programs for historic structures located in the downtown district along the byway Explore the feasibility of nominating properties to the National Register of Historic Places Support the maintenance of Main Street status in the City of Clarkesville Inform owners of historic properties about potential tax incentives through workshops With private individuals, nonprofit organizations, and all levels of government, seek the addition of historic markers and other means of providing information to travelers at appropriate byway locations Cultural Preservation and Enhancement Strategies In working with private individuals and businesses, nonprofit organizations, and all levels of government to preserve and enhance the cultural qualities of the proposed scenic byway, the Committee may: • • • Continue to promote and maintain Historic Tours that emphasize historic sites, homes, old churches, and cemeteries Keep the Mauldin House Visitor’s Center and Museum staffed with volunteers to assist visitors and provide guided tours (see walking tour brochure in Appendix E) Expand, enhance, and more widely promote local attractions, including: the Mountain Laurel Festival, A Taste of Clarkesville, Soque River Festival, Batesville Days, Tomato Festival, Historic Preservation Month, various concerts, downtown events, and other local cultural events STRATEGIES 18 Soque Scenic Byway Archaeological Preservation and Enhancement Strategies In working with private individuals and businesses, nonprofit organizations and all levels of government to preserve and enhance the archeological qualities of the proposed scenic byway, the Committee may: • • • Work with Soque River Watershed Association to enhance and promote the watershed near the Soque River Work with local historians to identify Native-American sites, early settlement sites, historic churches, old cemeteries, and other archaeological sites for preservation, enhancement, and appropriate access and/or protection Place archaeological markers along the proposed byway Recreational Preservation and Enhancement Strategies In working with private individuals and businesses, nonprofit organizations, and all levels of government to preserve and enhance the recreational qualities of the proposed scenic byway, the Committee may: • • • Work with GDOT to improve access to public recreational sites like Jackson Bridge Inform and educate residents and visitors about the kinds of recreational attractions along the byway Develop marketing materials that educate, increase awareness, encourage, and promote recreational activities along the proposed byway (e.g. create a brochure listing fly fishing opportunities available along the proposed byway) STRATEGIES 19 Soque Scenic Byway Corridor Management Considerations Property owners along the proposed byway have individually maintained their land to preserve the intrinsic and extrinsic values we have previously mentioned. Habersham County is therefore fortunate because there are few issues to be addressed. The Georgia Scenic Byway application and the Corridor Management Plan process have given us the focus necessary to assess the areas along the route, inventory our assets, and make plans for the route’s preservation and enhancement. Traffic Current traffic count data was collected by the Georgia Department of Transportation’s Office of Transportation Data and is listed as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Clarkesville Square – 10,060 “The Dip” – 440 Mark of the Potter – 440 Batesville General Store – 1,530 Oakey Mountain Church – 400 Unity Church – 400 Macedonia Church – 400 New Liberty Methodist Church – 1690 Panther Creek Recreation Area – 530 Also on: • • • State Route 255 (to Sautee Nacoochee) – 1,280 State Route 356 (Unicoi State Park) – 450 State Route 197 (to Lake Burton in Rabun County) – 1,530 Review of Safety/Accident Record* In all of 2013, only two motor vehicle collisions were reported on the proposed route of the Soque Scenic Byway. There were zero injuries or fatalities. Based on this information, it is reasonable to assume that the route is a relatively safely traveled route with little to no traffic accidents. * Information was collected from a GEARS (Georgia Electronic Accident Reporting System) search conducted on July 14, 2014 by Floyd Canup from the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office. Number of Residential Properties Along Proposed Byway The Habersham County Planning Department identified 228 property owners whose property and/or residence was directly adjacent to portions of the proposed route. This number does not include the dozens of streets, roads, and neighborhoods that are located directly off the route. CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS 20 Soque Scenic Byway Given this information, it is fair to assume that there are over 1,000 people who live, work, or have property on this 46.9-mile stretch of proposed byway. Current traffic counts on the proposed byway most likely include those vehicles that are traveling to and from their residence/business or property. Outdoor Advertising The present Habersham County Sign and Outdoor Advertising Resolution (Article XIV of the Comprehensive Land Development Resolution (CLDR), first adopted in 1992, and the definitions of terms used in that resolution found in Article III of the CLDR) controls the permitting and construction of any sign on roads in the county. That resolution precludes the construction of signs that are not allowed on scenic byways. No change in the current county sign ordinance is contemplated or necessitated due to byway designation. Segmentation The entire length of the proposed byway complies with scenic byway designation requirements. As such, segmentation is not necessary. Façade Grant Program The City of Clarkesville’s Main Street program currently has in place a façade improvement program whereby downtown business owners are able to obtain matching grants to improve storefronts. The program operates in accordance with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Since 2010, the Façade Grant Program has assisted 19 downtown businesses with exterior aesthetics and historic rehabilitations. All business located in the downtown district along the proposed byway are eligible for grant monies. Available Façade Improvement Grant monies are for exterior improvements only and may be applied to a front, side, or rear facade provided the facade faces a public street or parking area. Grants are available on a 50/50 matching basis with a cap of $2,000 per grant. See Façade Grant Eligible Projects in Appendix F. Sign Grants are available on a 50/50 matching basis with a cap of $500 per grant. Grant funds are for signs which may include signboards, projecting signs, and pedestrian signage (includes window signs, hanging signs, and awning/canopy signs) for commercial buildings located in the downtown district. See Sign Design Guidelines in Appendix G. Litter/Roadway Maintenance • Establish a litter clean-up program CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS 21 Soque Scenic Byway • Initiate and coordinate a “Keep the Byway Beautiful” campaign using GDOT, community service volunteers, and/or Adopt-A-Mile volunteers. Use clubs and individuals to form a team to keep the Byway clean and free from litter Signage Preliminary sign locations are indicated by red “T” symbols marked on a map of the proposed byway shown below CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS 22 Soque Scenic Byway Local Control GDOT does not assume any financial or other legal responsibilities by designation of local roadways as a Scenic Byway. Even though “Scenic Byway” is a state approved designation (such as “Main Street”), it is a locally controlled project. The objectives and guidelines are developed by the community and appropriate local authorities (not DOT) and included in a Corridor Management Plan (CMP), which is agreed upon by the GDOT. Scenic Byway projects (such as trails, scenic and historic pulloffs, historic restorations, etc.) are identified, planned, and implemented by local agencies, not by the DOT or other state agency. CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS 23 Soque Scenic Byway Promotion and Development Strategies Marketing, Promotion, and Public Relations Based on assets found along the byway, the community could work to create a public relations plan that may include some of these materials: brochures, flyers, fact sheets, and other informational and/or digital materials to foster tourism and economic development. Tourism-Economic Development Strategies The northeast Georgia mountain region remains one of Georgia’s best-kept secrets. The region, specifically the historic downtown center, has little visibility as a tourist destination. A coordinated and focused effort involving private individuals, nonprofit organization, businesses, and local state governments within the corridor can dramatically increase the effectiveness of marketing efforts. The strength of the Soque Scenic Byway will lie in its being used as the focus of a strong and creative community effort to develop the county’s tourism assets to further economic development initiatives consistent with the rural integrity of the route and as an atmosphere that is attractive to tourism related businesses along the proposed byway. Habersham County contains an abundance of tourism assets as well as potential assets in heritage tourism, eco-tourism, and recreational tourism. Development of such assets has a two-fold purpose. One is to help foster and promote historic preservation. Buildings and sites that are of interest to visitors, and generate income, are more likely to be preserved than sites that lie empty. Attention focused on the sites by promotion of the byway will hopefully stimulate a desire to preserve the past. The Byway Committee will create plans to help preserve important historical tourism assets as a part of its overall work plan. In addition, the Committee will work with other heritage organizations to preserve historic structures and sites. The other purpose of developing tourism assets is to stimulate economic development projects such as downtown area activities. Tourism is part of economic development. It brings money into a community directly through the dollars spent by the visitors and by the jobs they create. Visitors need restaurants, hotels, gas stations, grocery stores, and campsites to enjoy their traveling experience. The byway can become an economic engine for the area if it is properly exploited as such. The City of Clarkesville has developed and printed guides of historic areas in its downtown that treat visitors to a glimpse into the past. The guides move visitors through the earliest days of the communities up through the turn of the last century. These guides can be used as a starting point for preparing guides to the historic, archaeological, and natural areas and sites along the route of PROMOTION & DEVELOPMENT 24 Soque Scenic Byway the proposed byway. The guides can be published in print or digital formats targeted to specific segments of potential tourists. PROMOTION & DEVELOPMENT 25 ! Appendix A Land Use Intensity Map Official Land Use Intensity District for Habersham County ek R d W ils on Fa lls R d Baker Branch Rd “This is to certify that these Official Land Use Intensity District Maps supercede and replace the Official Land Use Intensity District Maps adopted July 1, 1992 as part of the Comprehensive Land Use Development Resolution of Habersham County, Georgia.” Hunting Club Rd C re U.S.N.F. ____________________________________________ Habersham County Commission Chairman d ma nR d Tra il D r Dam Rd sR Go sh e nC r ee kR d k Ln B roo od k wo o b b y B Go s h en o Bro P it he n nt ____________________________________________ Date ai n Rd Alle n ou Kennedy Mountain Rd M Ct w ou d ry os Ra o in b yM nR n He G ll Ke i nta Burto n Doe H e H St Of w nd La s Go h Ra p en er M ights ou nt ai n y ____________________________________________ Habersham County Clerk Rd 35 6 e Rap r Cr eek Dr 44 Dean Cove Dr 1 Ex pr es sw Rd ill a in Rd tus ir ay C n es pr y 1 Ex Hw Hi st ld 1O 44 Ln uty B ea 44 Pi p sw pi Rd nd st a ey FH on Cir ille y ee Cr sy os O ld 441 Dr nd la M His t k Hw Ln Rd le y Do o U.S.N.F. US N er v Tur n Pl ver y Ri id M od ge R d Dr St ers Pine R id wo Bri er San d Rd n or kh Bu c r kR Oa p ed Pi ne i Ln Ln ov C t le Tu r sh Gig Fl a e Rd Ho l l y ad C i r ow r id ge Dr Cobb Rd N ad Me Gl y P kw r eek Dr d de C oo ew Gl a Ro s Tr l ds yW oo Key Rd Pi ne Rudeseal Rd t Dr Ch op Ln e Rd Suttles Fran k Rd p nu Ca Bi ll Ln on co Ra c d rk R h Fo Sou t Ben L n yL e Dr r L in Gl or Bord e oude r m ilk Rd r ne D Fiel d st o St Hwy 197 S Dr ts na Kr a d dD oo hw Bir c l in R d Rd ke na ks Bla c Roper Dr se ui Lo W St Li gh t St Rd ir Bl a n gL Lo C ir sR d k Dic i ll sH Pk wy itt dP Ju Echo S t d Lic k s eD r Low Intensity Moderate Intensity High Intensity r No Data d Re Mtn C t W e St N Ways id F a ll Towe r Mo El ro Dr 5 36 wy St H 441 Bypass Lat Wilson Rd Locke R d Dr lo n Ni co Rd n Sno w dT er Frank Lovell Rd t rP ne Mi st D r Fore n El li so North St St r lD r ia Sher w ood Hoyt Cir t Hill S mo Me t Long S 365 wy St H Dr od wo er y he Ki tc ld o Ro Roads d tR ® 0.9 0.45 0 0.9 1.8 2.7 Miles y Hw ille sv in e Ga Dr ill d Ga St H w in e Ni x Rd y Roger Vanhook Rd Rd la n PIon e 197 N St Hw y yN Hw is t 1H 44 yR d ar r Qu Trl Squirre l th Fe a Hw ns he At d Hw rfi e Rd Ol Agriculture Protection d lle rs R d ar s vi Sell e d h rc n R O ek L Parcels n C re Ln rs ai Oa k Ay e nt 5 W ill ou 36 Rd d wy rs nR St H Legend M doc Dr od wo nt Br e Wa y ow yT ad e d lR 5 m nc Na Cas c St McConnell ve A w Grandvie el 36 ha ia l ss rD Fo in kL Ru y St kR d Cre e tr y Co un Rd es Ha m n ie Re n Ln is h Ca tf kT rl Holley St Ha Ce ze da Ch l rA Av La es e ve ur tn e lA ut ve Av Ce e nt ra lA ve Ln one le s t Cob b r ee sC Ri ch dge er Ri d Rd Ridgewo o r yD or Vi ct Rd eV ie w Rid g rD r Rom e nL ld e Go d tn R eM Eag l Fox Valle y Litt le Ranch Rd Mountain Shoa l d R ss ne er ild W ue So q Easemen t d Belaire Dr sR it t dP Fr e tR d et rr Ga gW at e lli n Fa N n Low Gap Rd Rd Creek ntain Rd Piedmont M ou Rd u r ch st Ch Harv e Cro s Rd Rd De e e e ill C ir k La Dr er s St Gills tM Gr an B& D k rg r No d Rd Ha b nth w Cr ee eo eD r ce R le Rd e Sev Rd 5 le Dr v il d 36 a lk W rs eR wy w Ay e H St do Rd in Irv k La G Rd id od t Rd es i Serv n Dr in el Rd o t Ba l l in p le h Gr S ve S th Six Rd i Sm p gA s Ca id St io er s es le St t r ap nt ni k La o rnw ir eC ap r n tZ d Rd rv Savage Rd R Finley Rd n De o Th M dD so am er Dr la n St S M a in t Ba gh S St ly y W Grand Ave Oa k St y Sk St S S St i W n lli e Av La k ll Ke St M r Rd Home St n n Ln de St St de d sh Ca yt Ho si tR Fr eS t St t on ie w Ln St N t in ev s Ht h Sara M a in ie S t Iv i Irv al W ce d Rd M i ll tS or ly Dona u Br e la n k La Yor k S li a Rd St t er Car St 3rd St St 2nd C le v ay W d Blv Elberta St Myrtle St y Ho M nd I a le yI Ln re Ar th a Sh m To re o Rd Chimney Rise Rd m ful W aters d lo kM in d kR ll R e i Sm m To e i yM G d ac Bl ta un c Ro y Rd Hw Dr Peac e Dr ch ur ge Trl Dr ad Ch a ok Ha z ad o w St Hwy 197 Rio Dr m k co eR Oa Ta l L ak ed h Rd Churc d Tod 's pa Pa rk Dr Rd Arlo Todd ge Rd ro C r eek Camp on Wils no t er y Hw Cas a Rd ad y nb Cir ns e w Me Dixie iry g Ma Ln er Stonecyph Old t r View D r Scenic ce D r io n m pp Fo t at Ta l se Cody Rd Ay e tA t ln u Yates Rd sS Ci NC St Post P la gS d o Ch th p in oo Rd Jo nn Ki le Rd 5 Dr d rl yT m Pu w lly ll Hi e To c Dr G Rd tM R Rd d S w d oo St Hwy 197 S le y ge ill Rd d C ov So u Rd l Hu rd Ha s An id H ah rm d Woo ord Rd an es rR d m Ca on pY Fa kR ew rD er Rd n so st kR Cobb Rd iz or ve Rd ur Cr ee Ho i Fa Ri v on yh d d M rl er r y T Br E St is A ll d se R r Cha ley D Val ay Cir g ew Rid Wa t e ep h d ns R St Mc ir eC Ri Ju s Trott er sR un n el Co lo H wy H u ie t Ben T eR d ll Ho or N Rd Briarcliff Trl m De WR S u ss r d b bs Rd kf yR 7S e re Rd s Cha y D Furniture Ol n Gi rn ll R d kL Bo pbe lo V illa g Rd m To Dr rC am roo an ur c he m vo Pre a rB rd ea Pl Jo h n ne b Rd Hw ar d ir Tug a d Dike R Ha nn Bu K in 19 bl se st w Ed eC mith Rd Gi on Rd ss wy dE s rri Ha Rd on Rd r d t S t de S a W st ar d en d En ake D R k ey d ch lls kf Roc a u Do our lf C n s rd o Co kR l Pl Gr Ln eR St d an n Travis S Gl d le t h Dr H ome ov o H y ne Or rR cke dd r ee h Antioc t d Go Iro O wa River Run Trl a lly y Victor Gr e Th Fa Je n ed y R Dr 6 St Hwy 3 eR ce L Mi eC g Rd J Ken ge Ln Dr rc wy od H o s s in Dr St co n id yR Gr a Pa nth e rL Beave Ro c r Hill C n n Rd Ru um Pl nds la d r Ed Rd y Wa St H M il l Dr eD d Baldwin R ia l Ch u Dr y y Hw O ck Dr Ai rp lv d lB a tri us d In d s R ll a Da t s er M iz Ja rc me eS aw er Hi wy Rd ir rt C v ay EL is ou ch S nc 1 Pk r d tR por Air nw Ru ro to Swain St c hur c To em Fre e Sp St rs dW y od Hw llywo r Ba St ng NC n Stewart L Dr il y m E r Cante t ia de Rd s Ann on hi St nd Wi St lin Ar Main eS rg il Bu R on le t EG Ho t hS Rd d e St eo Dr a W Rd s Dr wa l kw d oo ew Vi n Hu G er ey t St Iv y ay W at W nt n n yw o Holl r Chu Rd il d 44 dD n rre ou ne C ve eA ap St Rd vi Cr ee ils W Dr Gr a n as W d lls b Ru l Co C t o gt d Rd ou L nty in e Rd ht ty J y ag Vill ir eC ad Da a Te ig Wr un Co n Cor Rd d i ll R Rd a Gr m Faith L eR h at e Rd nz ud Smokey Rd o Al e ad W eM Note: This map was compiled from the 2005 Habersham County Tax Assessors digital database and information received from the Habersham County Planning Department. It is to be used for land use ordinance purposes only. Georgia Mountains RDC assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of information contained herein. ss Rd Dr nk e d re n Cra Rd e Pl -M o Sh o K Wade Rd Al to oo Rd ba r li ks R e Emma Wad d s on er w Rd a Ch B Rd dR d Yo Po d tR le ld A n sl i Luth R oo ry er er w eb Rd King Herring Mill Rd h na s mp d Un u Bl d Rd i Alp An s B g r id ug er t G Legacy Dr ill r n Rd n Rd a wm o B o Th Coon Creek R ch Rd Rd D Payne Norto y Rd M rn Fe ge Tr l Fr J Rd d Rd r C ir d d R St r sD Alder S id st s Ea Hard y v il l e Ci Elm r Dr Com Jar e M ud k ee yb p Ca Sil v rd Wa Cherry Cir Rd id h a Ad ve Br tc D r Gr o n ak Dr Pa te s p To e Pin ca tO y Ln Rd Ja Rd dge ll Hi tle d v ro Ha ro Wilb an M ill is Wh dR n Du as ek Rd Ln Cr e lG ny on ls d Old Level G r o ve eR L Jen G is ar r il yH n Be r sD r om ld e S Si lv er C re t eD s Re Rd n Rd oo d hR ve Le la c d kR M c Ten r ac rT d ly nL d Ri ge Ln P rel Lau Rd mi d er Ln ck Ln Dr n ou nL d lk R Herring Rd io is s k Rd d so n Jo h co Han w rro on rri rry Rd Heads Fe n ood L Pinew e De ki At er d sR B ri e P ar Dr kA e yP d Ga d rn n ll Wa y eR Ga Rd b Ru pe Ho us n Fra Ho st o St a ew Rd dg Rd nri ee sR ch is Parad New d Mi Ln n ch en p a Pe Ol w r i an on l ey so ee oo ph th o Lo u Do bl p eS g r in n Can i Sm n Te Ed u rg ch t o in Dr S pur l Va Fe Gr Ferry tta Mi bs yo nP e P ar k ra Pa di se ll Bi s Head Ch a am ub d n Ca is Parad Rd d Rd ge t Edwards R d Dr ilty qu n Te n r h ea Vi e Rd ill lR d Peyton Place Dr Gr e Ut L ff e r la c e Parkp G rR u Bl rR d e Copp Se a S te Rd ia d nR i ve Bar D S er sh br r rD eM Ju Rd San d at W W Bar Rod Rd an Tr e Ell o sa n d er ge e C ir t ee Ln Rd Monroe S t ra d Bethel Temple Rd rdu Pa n Redfern Ln Tw i La p er r o Co Sw Paradise Park er d Rd R id g KD Shook Rd ki n Rd pa Pa Mineral Springs Trl Po Ri d Ol 15 y1 Wheeler R d Iris Dr s Bank r Whitewate Rd e Soqu c Ro r Rd Del Rio Dr Dr e y Rd b Ha w Bill Ram s Roberts R d Rd Rd H St d d as n st ls Hil om y lo er Ta Gr o v es cr C r r e s t v ie w tD d lmer R Rd xo Di Ln Rd Ne ol y on k Oa ho Rd Ha rm l Rd Pa Sc ay n nE s g li d hR s ood Th ie Dan R ro El n Ea gl e y Br n so oo s a ll W d d w id Rabbit Rise Ln Ho m ys d on R ie irv Fa Rd lt o Hi d Ri Rd yw Ha Rd Bryson Dr l Ho Lo gC b Ze J im to Sutt Rd sR R eM d rR Am Riverbend Rd a b in Ge g or s os kT rl ng ill oo Ct d Dr t Su M ill R te M Br pri so n kR lo r Rd er ny kS ck or tY y Ta od Sutto n d de R rwil Rive T ec hS ch ot Tr Ja be ed wo Rd oo ok ha n ve Rd Rd r Co fr Al Ch it d n Ho Ln d Woo s d es tL dge Trl d tto n R l ng dR d Oa o Co ir ri Sp m op nn Wo o Ja on d Rd S ol Co nR in La m 'k Rd w d Boy Co sC t ai Su n St Hwy 105 gs d ng pri eR un Sw a m O lle r ly a Bob P iin Rid g Mo rd Ha n d ge Lo pr Ale c L le J R an R ly el r Ri Tha ll Hi lS Trip n kE M ac rid Wall B Co o kR C r ee ta L ge Dr Wi nd d v y Sk ie w ill R OW r ip Wh HD ri He Antique Alley Rd e Cid Rd rrs Ho l Trl Q ng Sa Rd el l mB rm a ll B ook d R Rol li ua rl N il T Fa Rd r By B ke Ca Rd La w Ln r ty an d aR Bo ic i n e d rr R be ve m t ho Ec eb Blue Old e o Ye Co o a nn an o Sp v Co es Bi Rd d La Rd Tr av Rd an k M ed ie n Fr ile b hu Sc Dr k Rd B ng Li e t le Amys Cre e ri Sp an r kD t ie f Ch Dr r is is Th n Sto c Ro ep y Rd ir Majestic Way ky e All el n Be d d a le s n Su ng 17 St on sC p ha in Rd Rd s ne Jo n Anna y yC pri w R un sa r tw ee Sw l ont Tr Starm Lovelace Rd Lin d yS H St rD ate Ivy Mounta Ivy Mtn Connector e Dr M i ll l le Va rn Fe rl yT ck Ro Muscadin Ivy Trl Rd Sautee Ridge Rd n le R b ap p Rd n on Rd eL Hank Fry w Ne Ln ap l r is L Jacks rM I Wild ne Silv e Maybrook Dr Cra n sL es ch Rd Du d Rd Rd va Whitworth Rd Forest Trl la HIgh b er t y arter Wi nd ek R d ek L n s Lyon Lon J Im C Mill Cre r Trl Foggy C re o Wail O est D ak F o r ar i New L Seye Rd ch 5 Lady Slipper um Sm Crabapple Rd Or c h ar d C t Dr ar d h Or c Or 25 L NTaylor Rd wy Ta t co Wa Rd d is Ad Rd it h s n le y Rd d e Yat C ir vi Rd Co l Ln Owls Nest Hu b ap ar ir Sh n Woote Ruby tR ar b y s ill M tts G i lb nn Nu M ill Rd ow C H St Co l ra r er rG Pi d R cres sM Wa tt nt Rd ou Rd St Hwy 255 Be a H d Dr ol R s pu ho m Sc Ca St yM n rto Rd ok Ca d St Main t S e r t le d g ss ke Bu Sil o l yc St Mo Oa Old Hickory Nut Mtn R ay Sunburst Ln Riv er Ston e v ie w Rd ll Kno R d oa 24 3 Map Prepared By: Georgia Mountains RDC PO Box 1720, Gainesville, Georgia 30503 (770)538-2626 AM, October 2006 ! Appendix B Public Mailing Packet & Forum Agenda December 12th, 2013 Dear Property Owner, A committee of dedicated Habersham County citizens is working diligently for the designation of the Soque Scenic Byway. Once designated, it will be the fifteenth in the state. Other byways currently in existence are Altamaha, Cohutta-Chattahoochee, Enduring Farmlands, I-185, Historic Piedmont, Meriwether-Pike, MillenJenkins, Monticello Crossroads, Ocmulgee Piedmont, Ridge & Valley, Russell-Brasstown, Effingham-Ebenezer, South Fulton and Warren-County Piedmont. The Soque Scenic Byway will encompass Highway 197 from GA Hwy 365 through historic downtown Clarkesville, to Batesville and along Raper Mountain Road, Oakey Mountain Road, New Liberty Road and The Orchard Road and continuing north on Historic 441 past Panther Creek recreation area to US 441 showcasing the significant scenic, natural, historic, cultural, archaeological, and recreational qualities along the route. Please see the enclosed map indicating the byway. Support has been tremendous for this project. It has been approved by the City of Clarkesville, Habersham County Board of Commissioners, the Habersham County Chamber of Commerce, Clarkesville Business & Community Association, the Scenic 197 Business Association as well as other organizations, churches, businesses and individuals. The designation of the proposed Soque Scenic Byway will assist in conserving, enhancing, and displaying the heritage and culture of Habersham County and Northeast Georgia. This designation will also assist in boosting heritage tourism and result in additional grant opportunities for all communities involved. The committee hopes you will share our enthusiasm of the byway. As a property owner along the proposed Soque Scenic Byway, your ideas, input, and participation are greatly valued. To assist in questions you might have, an informational meeting will be held on the following date and time: January 9th 6-7:30PM Clegg Auditorium, North Georgia Technical College You may also access additional information online at www.tinyurl.com/Soquescenicbyway. We look forward to sharing more information with you about this unique opportunity for our community. Thank you for your time to this important matter and we look forward to building a better Habersham County while keeping the traditions of our past. Sincerely, Soque Scenic Byway Committee PROPOSED ROUTE Habersham Habersham County, Georgia Thursday, January 9, 2014 from 6:00pm-7:30pm Clegg Auditorium, North Georgia Technical College Campus Clarkesville, Georgia 6:00 Welcome and Purpose of the Meeting Soque Scenic Byway Committee Representatives 6:05 Corridor Management Planning Overview Bayne Smith, Georgia Department of Transportation Benefits of Byways Byway Planning Process Byway Planning Issues 6:30 7:00 General Questions and Answers Vision and Goals All To help us develop goals for the byway please fill out the cards as follows Green Card- Top 3 Assets for the Byway Yellow Card- Top 3 Challenges facing the Byway Blue Card- in ten or twenty years, list out the top three accomplishments of the byway planning effort Pink Card- list one priority project that should be implemented along the byway *Results will be available online and via local news media, as well as 2nd public forum meeting (date TBA) 7:30 Adjourn If you would like to make additional written comments or suggestions please use the space on the back of the page, or send us an email. Where can I get more information about this community effort? Please contact Mary Beth Horton (706) 754-2220 or email [email protected]. Additional information can be found online at www.tinyurl.com/Soquescenicbyway. Additional Comments: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Georgia Scenic Byway Program Frequently Asked Questions What is a Scenic Byway? A Georgia Scenic Byway is defined as any designated highway, street, road, or route which significantly features certain intrinsic qualities that should be protected or enhanced. Intrinsic qualities are the resources present along a byway that define its character, interest, and appeal. There are six types of intrinsic qualities: scenic, historic, natural, cultural, archeological, and recreational. Intrinsic qualities should be within the viewshed of the byway and must relate or contribute to the distinctive character of the region. What is a Corridor Management Plan? A Corridor Management Plan (CMP) is a guide for the future promotion, preservation, and enhancement of a scenic byway. The plan is a result of local governments, community organizations, and byway residents working together to establish goals and objectives that hope to achieve through designation. These goals may include the promotion of tourism, protection of historic and natural resources, or preservation of scenic views. The CMP is not a document of new laws, regulations, or ordinances, but instead is composed of existing land use plans plus recommendations, by property owners and stakeholders, used to assist in protecting and promoting the byway. Who will implement and manage the corridor management plan? The objectives of the CMP will be carried out by the local governments and the members of the Corridor Management Plan Committee. What are the community benefits of a Scenic Byway? A community’s benefits depend on the objectives established in the Corridor Management Plan. For example, if a local government uses the designation to promote tourism in the area, then residents may see an increase in economic development and a decrease in taxes due to the generation of new tourism revenue. Or, if a community decides to emphasize the protection of scenic and natural areas, land use ordinances could be created to preserve the rural character of a byway and limit development intrusion. Scenic Byway designation is a unique tool, in that it can be used to achieve a wide variety of your community’s goals. How will the Byway be funded? There are several possible funding sources, including Federal and State government programs and private foundations. At the Federal level, National Scenic Byways Grants and Transportation Enhancements can be used to fund improvements to the byway such as information kiosks, marketing brochures, scenic overlooks, streetscaping plans, and safety enhancements. The Georgia Departments of Natural Resources and Community Affairs also offer funding programs that could be used for byway-related projects. What will the Byway cost the sponsor and/or local government? It depends. The most obvious cost is time, which includes working on the application, holding public meetings, and developing the Corridor Management Plan (if they choose to do so themselves). As far as money is concerned, the local government may need to provide a match for a grant to develop the CMP or to implement a project once designated. They may also wish to contract out some elements of the designation, implementation, and maintenance processes. The extent of money and time needed is difficult to determine since governments can take a more or less active part in developing, maintaining, and promoting a byway. Is there any more maintenance required by local governments with a Byway? Will a Scenic Byway route have improvements made to the roadway? After designation, GDOT Maintenance staff will work with local jurisdictions to develop a maintenance plan and schedule for the byway. The local governments, if they desire, can choose to go beyond the routine GDOT maintenance and develop their own plan of litter control, mowing, landscaping, etc. It is expected that the local government will maintain any county or city streets along the byway. In fact, if local roads are to be included in a byway, the governing jurisdiction must submit a resolution of support with the application. Also, local governments must approve the CMP, which should describe how the local government would maintain and operate the byway. Byway sponsors can also work with GDOT’s Wildflower and Adopt-A-Highway Programs to help enhance the appearance of designated roadways. In addition, Byways may be allowed revisions from standard construction and maintenance practices which would promote Context Sensitive Designs. What kinds of property restrictions are required? Does the local government have to adopt zoning? The only property restriction is the prohibition of new billboards along routes designated as Federal Aid Primary, National Highway System, or Interstate. This essentially covers all state routes. Currently existing billboards may remain. The CMP is not a zoning plan but should reference any current land use or community plans that would impact the byway corridor. If it is the community's goal to implement and/or enforce zoning or land use ordinances, then that should be detailed in the CMP. Ideally the community would develop some type of control measure along the byway to further the goals of enhancement, promotion, and preservation. How will living on the Scenic Byway affect my property? Most likely, the byway will have no effect on an individual’s property. GDOT has only one land use restriction, the prohibition of the construction of new billboards, which accompanies Scenic Byway designation. This rule applies to Interstate, National Highway System, or Federal-Aid Primary routes. Any other effects would come out of the Corridor Management Plan, which citizens and residents help to develop. Since byways are often viewed as valuable community resources, it is possible that living on a Scenic Byway will create a greater sense of pride for your land and may increase your property values. Does designation as a Scenic Byway mean that GDOT will exercise Eminent Domain? NO. Designation as a Scenic Byway in no way facilitates GDOT’s ability to “take” your property, nor does it increase the likelihood of such an action. Does designation as a Scenic Byway impact my ability to secure additional curb cuts/access points? NO. GDOT’s driveway permitting process is not altered by the route’s Scenic Byway designation. However, byway designation is based on the route’s intrinsic qualities and the protection of those qualities through local land use plans and zoning. What happens if an easement, property, or access to property is needed for a scenic vista or for Byway Amenities? If an easement, property, or access to property is needed for a scenic vista or other byway project (such as the construction of physical amenities including turnouts and parking areas, etc.) and federal-aid funds are used to purchase the access/property, the sponsor must follow the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, more commonly known as the ‘Uniform Act’. This law requires that certain procedures be followed in securing needed easements/access/property in order to ensure that affected property owners are treated fairly and equitably. Questions from a Property Owner 1. Is this a proposal to purchase my property? The Soque Scenic Byway (SSB) Committee is not proposing to purchase property. 2. Are there any condemnation plans in any planned effort to acquire any of the land along the proposed route of the Byway? The SSB Committee has no plans to acquire land. 3. Are private property owners of the land that runs along the proposed Byway required to make any financial outlays of capital to improve the route or the property? Property owners will not have to make any financial outlays for the Byway. The State of Georgia Department of Transportation, the county and the cities through which the Byway runs will have responsibility for maintaining all roads as they do now. The SSB Committee will assist with landscaping, trash collection on the road right-of-way, erecting historical markers, and other such activities that will maintain a pleasant road. If owners desire to improve their property, we will certainly do all we can to help. 4. Will there be any additional new structures built along the new proposed Byway Route? If so, where and for what purpose? Who will build said structures? Where will financing for these structures originate? The SSB may erect historical markers, create scenic pull-offs, and establish recreational areas along the Byway. These will be on the road right-of way or public land, not private property. All activities will be funded by donations of money or services. 5. Are there any legal implications involved in which private property owners as myself should be concerned about? Anything of a legal nature I need to know about concerning the proposed Byway? The Byway designation requires that no new billboards be erected. We do not know of any other legal implications. 6. Will private property owners of the land that runs along the proposed Byway route, be allowed to build on this referenced property now or in the future? Any restrictive zoning ordinances involved? The Byway will have no legal or governing power over zoning or land use. The established land use and zoning regulations apply along the Byway, just as they do everywhere else in the county. If an owner, on the Byway or in any other part of the county involved, wishes to use the land for a purpose not acceptable to the established regulations, then that owner must go through the established petitioning process to obtain a variance. 7. Are real estate sales affected now or in the future, of property along the proposed Byway route? We cannot answer this question with any certainty. We would think that established zoning and land use regulations would have some effect on real estate sales since they determine the use to which land can be put, but that is true anywhere in the county, not just on the Byway. We believe that if we maintain the Byway roads with their current character and keep them pleasant places to live, then they will attract people who appreciate that character. We are not sure how this will affect real estate sales. 8. How will the Byway affect the property taxes now and in the future for privately owned property owners? Property taxes are set by the governments and there is no way to determine what they might do. A Conservation Easement may provide tax savings on income, estate and property taxes. For additional information on Conservation Easements, visit www.tinyurl.com/soquescenicbyway. Habersham Habersham County, Georgia Thursday, January 9, 2014 from 6:00pm-7:30pm Clegg Auditorium, North Georgia Technical College Campus Clarkesville, Georgia 6:00 Welcome and Purpose of the Meeting Soque Scenic Byway Committee Representatives 6:05 Corridor Management Planning Overview Bayne Smith, Georgia Department of Transportation Benefits of Byways Byway Planning Process Byway Planning Issues 6:30 7:00 General Questions and Answers Vision and Goals All To help us develop goals for the byway please fill out the cards as follows Green Card- Top 3 Assets for the Byway Yellow Card- Top 3 Challenges facing the Byway Blue Card- in ten or twenty years, list out the top three accomplishments of the byway planning effort Pink Card- list one priority project that should be implemented along the byway *Results will be available online and via local news media, as well as 2nd public forum meeting (date TBA) 7:30 Adjourn If you would like to make additional written comments or suggestions please use the space on the back of the page, or send us an email. Where can I get more information about this community effort? Please contact Mary Beth Horton (706) 754-2220 or email [email protected]. Additional information can be found online at www.tinyurl.com/Soquescenicbyway. Additional Comments: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Habersham Habersham County, Georgia Thursday, August 28, 2014 from 6:00pm-7:00pm Clegg Auditorium, North Georgia Technical College Campus 6:00 Welcome and Purpose of the Meeting 6:15 Presentation of the Soque Scenic Byway Corridor Management Plan 6:45 Public Comment 7:00 Adjourn Soque Scenic Byway Committee Representatives If you would like to make additional written comments or suggestions please use the space on the back of the page and drop off before you leave or email Mary Beth Horton at [email protected]. ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ August 23, 2014 Dear Property Owner, A committee of Habersham County citizens has been working for the designation of the Soque Scenic Byway. The proposed Byway will encompass Highway 197 from GA Hwy 365 through historic downtown Clarkesville, to Batesville and along Raper Mountain Road, Oakey Mountain Road, New Liberty Road and The Orchard Road and continuing north on Historic 441 past Panther Creek recreation area to US 441 showcasing the significant scenic, natural, historic, cultural, archaeological, and recreational qualities along the route. In addition, extensions of the Byway reach out to Rabun and White Counties in the hope that those counties will seek byway designation of connecting roads there. The designation of the proposed Soque Scenic Byway can be a focal point for boosting heritage tourism and assist with grant opportunities for all communities involved. It can also assist in conserving, enhancing, and displaying the heritage and culture of Habersham County and Northeast Georgia. Following the January 9 meeting to which you were invited, the byway committee compiled and reviewed the comments made there and, with the assistance of Archway, developed a corridor management plan for the Soque Scenic Byway. That plan may be reviewed at: http://tinyurl.com/SSBCMP In accordance with Georgia Department of Transportation rules for approval of a scenic byway, a second public meeting will be held August 28, 2014 6-7PM Clegg Auditorium, North Georgia Technical College We look forward to sharing more information with you about this unique opportunity for our community. Thank you for your time to this important matter and we look forward to building a better Habersham County while keeping the traditions of our past. Sincerely, Soque Scenic Byway Committee ! Appendix C Newspaper Ads & Meeting Notices SA \ Friday, April2~, 2012 I !he Northeast Georgian. I '.' , Citizens Advisory Group drives .potential Soque Scenic Byway By KIMB~RLf BROWN ) Chip Wright, regional planner for' the . Georgia Mountains Regional Cornmission .(GMRC), along with members of a 10Gai Citizens Advisory Group (CAG), spent half a day touring the proposed Soque Scenic Byway route in Habersham County Tuesday, April 24. , ,.The proposed approximate 36·mile byway begins at the intersection of U.S. Highway 441 and state Route 197 near' Habersham Central High School. It proceeds north on state Route . 197 through the, Historic District of, Clarkesville, past North Georgia Technical College and Mark of the .Potter, turns northeast on . state Route 255, then south '. , KIMBERLY BROWN/Special on Raper Mountain Road Chip Wright, rigtit,.of the Georgia Mountains Regional Commission talks about S.oque River access to New Liberty Road, then / at Jackson Bridge an Highway 197 with Soque Scenic Byway Citizens Advisory Group members Mary' The Orchard Road and back . . . ..' , '. .' to Historic Highway 441. Beth Horton, Walton Smith, left, and Ed Klvett,dunng a recent tour of the proposed scemc byway. Wright, who represented .' the Georgia Department of ' fold brochures that co~1dbe' "There are no involvements '.ing to have a picnic someTransportation as well as put in tourist information that are not voluntary." where, but there's nowhere ' GMRC, was joined on' the centers. . During the tour, Wr-ight to sit," Kivett told. Wright. tour by, CAG Chairman Wright said, after GDOT .suggested the group reo "That would be. ideal for .and Soque Artworks owner approval, each property quest a feasability study for benches or something like ;Walton Smith, 'Clarkesville' owner along the route will establishing a "blueway" or that. The Soque River, is City Manager Barbara be notified and public meet- river trail along the Soque one ofthe prettiest rivers in Kesler, Clarkesville City ings held to inform the River. the area, and it's unique beCouncil member' Tina Ev- public about the, project. "The state and the feds cause it starts and ends in .ans, Clarkesville Better He said 'there will not be are looking at establishing Habersham -County, which Hometown' Manager Mary ,arty property modifications blueways;" he said. "That's is unusual." Beth Horton, and, Glen necessary except signage another draw for your comSmith said the group is Ella Springs Inn owner Ed' and enhanced parking in 'munity, since you do have a in the beginning phase of Kivett.already·public:: areas such waterway through town. It's, establishing the byway, Since the. byway is a as Jackson Bridge on state • another waypoilitthat could "We're going to ileed driving route, the group Route 197. be established on [the Soque help, from community aslooked for potential areas to On Wednesday, Smith, Scenic Bywayslproject." sociations, historians and enhance parking and possi- said the CAG just wants "We could potentially people who know 'the sigbly add information kiosks, people to be "comfortable have a put-in point at the .nificance of buildings.along interpretive markers and . with [the' byway] and sup- [Clarkesville]' Greenway, the route," he said, "That's , picnic tables for Scenic By- port it." " " and if we could somehow ac- thanext thing we're lookway tourists. ' He reitetated no private quire the land on the other, ing for." Stops included Jackson 'hind is involved, "unless side of Pitts Park, we could Wright said a scenic Bridge, Batesville General somebody wants to be in·', have a take-out point down drivelike the Soque Scenic Store and Mark of the Pot- volved." . there," Kesler said. "That's' Byway could createjobs by ter, with a side trip to Glen', "We think it'll be very a good 30·.or 45·minute ca- bringing people into the Ella Springs Inn, which is helpful in protecting' the noe ride." area:' 'not directly onthe route. ' area, because it'll go handOne' of the stops' on the "It would bolster activiIfit:nx-0!0ut~l'isapproved 'in·hq.nd with the' scenic ' route was the area at Jack-. "ties in the existing downby' GJ!)u:r; t1ie(a'Soque See- .·corridorover1ay. ~sthct, '~Ol~ .l~rid~, whi is cur' to~n," ,W~i~ht said.' ~,{I91, lid:C7By-way7w:i~4::ie-furiae~1' c which is.designe<fto'proteet rently one oftti!:! ; y'pul~hc. brtng adthtiona :people.In mostly by"~rants:obta~ned the views andthe lan<f.'arid areas for Soque. River ac-, to places like -Glen El1~, "with help from GMRC, at the same time, increase cess. Kivett suggested en· and it'll open the area to a Wright-said. He 'said there" tourism .and exposure of hancing that pulloff with a' larger audience. It'll create , are funds available to estab- the area to people both in- picnicarea and better park- . foundations for new busilish the route' and promote 'side and outside the county ing. . nesses in empty commerit, including creating tri- and the region," Smith sai~. "My wife and I were look- cial buildings." v ! Appendix D Public Comments Results List the Top 3 Assets of the Byway: Beautiful road Preserve the beauty Protect the arts and crafts that we have as in Vermont and NC Soque River Batesville Farm Land Scenery Beautiful seasonal colors I think this meeting was very representative of Hwy 197 people (residents) and majority don’t want the designation Quaint downtown with many offerings Better for business Tourism Increase beautification Increase tourism for the betterment of all of Habersham County Increase economic benefits for Habersham County Sales Outdoor education Publicity Clarkesville Downtown Mark of the Potter Demorest Park Scenery Trails Proximity to urban center Top 3 Assets of the Byway Beauty- 25% Tourism- 25% Landmarks- 17% Other- 21% Proximity to Downtown- 12% What are the Top 3 Challenges Facing the Byway? Prepare a plan to handle litter More signs where other roads intersect the byway Excessive traffic Litter control Protection of property rights Traffic – no need for more traffic in ag. areas Trash Trespassers Educate the public Litter Traffic Personal Property Rights Traffic/Trash River violations Family property that needs to be left to families- no scenic byways needed Increase of trash Possible limit to property owners Change inroads Opening door for restrictions Increased traffic Trash/litter on roadway Possible le impact on property values The Right to Farm Act still works in Georgia. I put chicken litter on pasture drive tractor on road Over consumption of Fox News Greed & selfishness trumps cooperation and generosity Inconsiderate behavior This project is not necessary. Regulation follows designation. We don’t need more regulation. I drive a tractor on that route and it is already hazardous Top 3 Challenges Facing the Byway Litter/Trash- 26% Property Rights - 22% Traffic- 15% Changes in Roads/Signage - 7% Changes in Roads/Signage - 7% List the Top 3 Accomplishments for the Soque Scenic Byway: Great research Great people involved Great road map Awareness of beauty of Soque River Quaint shops along 197/not additional commercial establishments Possible historic markers Increased tourism to downtown businesses Increase in community pride List One Project you feel is priority for the Byway: No more regulations affecting property Litter Control Better control of trash management I think this meeting was very representative of Hwy 197 people (residents) and majority don’t want the designation Tourism- attract and support great craft and art Learn what has been done in N. C and Vermont Trash & excess signs removal Educational improvements Road improvements with scenery in mind Addition of historic markers at certain points along the byway ! Appendix E Walking Tour Brochure Map 1. Mauldin House/Millinery Shop/Big Holly Cabin corner of East Waters and Jefferson Streets The Mauldin House, a large Victorian cottage, and the adjacent millinery shop, date from the late nineteenth century. A.M. Mauldin and his wife, a hat maker, were the first owners of the house and their descendants occupied it until 1990. Originally the property occupied an entire city block with barns, pasture, and a vegetable garden. The house was previously known as the “Little Pink Cottage.” 2. Grace Calvary Episcopal Church 295 Green Street Founded in 1838, the building was completed in 1842. The church was started by families who vacationed in Clarkesville to escape the heat and danger of fever in Charleston and Savannah, and is the oldest church building in the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta. Built by Jarvis Van Buren, the building’s historic features include over 42 hand-blown glass windows, straight-backed box pews, and a pipe organ which is the oldest working church instrument in Georgia. 3. Gloaming Cottage 142 Amilee Graves Circle Built by Jarvis Van Buren, first cousin of President Martin Van Buren, in 1840 as his personal residence. The cottage is significant for its Gothic design. Van Buren moved to Clarkesville to operate the Iron Works south of the town, but soon turned his attention to building homes and furniture. Welcome to Downtown Clarkesville Clarkesville was chartered in 1823 as the county seat of Habersham County, which it remains today. It was the first of the major resort towns of Northeast Georgia, with wealthy families escaping the heat and malaria of the coasts of South Carolina and Georgia venturing north for the milder summers of Clarkesville. At one time, downtown Clarkesville was sprinkled with hotels for these tourists. Soon the visitors were building fine homes in the area, some of which are part of this walking tour. Life in Clarkesville huddled around the square, with women shopping, and men gathering to talk about business and politics. Gone are the hotels, but life in Clarkesville still represents the same peaceful respite of earlier years and remains a gentle, friendly place. Downtown Visitor’s Center Historic Mauldin House 458 Jefferson Street 706-754-2220 www.clarkesvillega.com or find Clarkesville on Downtown Clarkesville HISTORIC Walking Tour 4. Old Clarkesville Cemetery Wayne and Washington Streets The original Methodist Church was located in the center of the present cemetery until and remained there until1881. The cemetery contains the graves of many historically interesting people, including Jarvis and Eliza Van Buren; Mr. and Mrs. Ezekiel Fuller, whose son, Captain W.H. Fuller, drove the locomotive Texas in pursuit of the General, captured by Andrew’s Raiders in the famous Civil War incident known as “The Great Locomotive Chase,” later made into a movie;; Richard Haber- sham, U.S. Congressman and nephew of Colonel Joseph Habersham; Revolutionary War soldiers Matthew Rhodes and R.D. McCroskey; Judge C.H. Sutton, Habersham County’s first Ordinary. 5. Toombs-Bleckley House 172 Jefferson Street This Georgia Revival house was the original site of the summer home of General Robert Toombs. Toombs was a U.S. Senator and later the Confederate Secretary of State. Another owner, Judge Logan Bleckley, was the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Georgia. The entire Supreme Court of Georgia would often meet at this house to write their decisions. The house partially burned in 1904, but was rebuilt by Judge Bleckley. 6. Burns-Sutton House 855 Washington Street Built in 1901, this Victorian home was built by Master Craftsman Rusk Church and his nephew Cornelius. The house is significant as the former home of prominent Clarkesville citizens Dr J.K. Burns and Judge I.H. Sutton. 7. Brewer-Hamby House 751 Washington St. This home, built in 1920 by Idus and Vertie Lee Brewer, is an example of the Craftsman Bungalow style popular from 1905-1930. Mr. Brewer was the Habersham County Clerk of Court and the owner of Brewer’s Drugstore. 8. The Charm House 1050 Washington Street This Greek Revival house was built in 1907 by W.R. Asbury and named “Oak Heights.” Mr. Asbury was a leading merchant and owned a store on the Square. He also founded Habersham Bank with his two brothers. The Asbury’s owned the first automobile in Clarkesville. In the mid-20th century it was used as a hospital, and many current day Clarkesville residents were born in the Charm House. In recent years, the Charm House has served as a Bed and Breakfast and restaurant. 9. First Presbyterian Church N. Washington St This Greek Revival style church is historically significant as a major public works project built by Jarvis Van Buren. The church was organized in 1832 and built in 1848. In 1907 the building was turned around to face Washington Street instead of Jefferson Street. 10. Houston-Franklin House Washington and Marion Streets This Gothic Revival style house was moved to its present location from Turnerville, GA around 1900 and served as a boarding house. Later this early 20th century structure served as the home of Mitchell Franklin, who served as Habersham County’s Ordinary. 11. Baron-York Building On the Square This brick two-story structure was the first commercial building on this side of the square. Named for V.C. Baron’s Feed and Seed store and M.C. York’s dry goods store. This is one of two surviving 19th-century commercial buildings in downtown Clarkesville. 12. The Arrendale Building On the Square Built in 1907, this building was home of Habersham Bank, the first bank in Clarkesville. 13. Old Brewer’s Drugstore On the Square Part of the “Martin Block” constructed by local builder John Martin in 1907. Originally Rhodes Drug Store, it was known as Brewer’s Drug Store from 1940-1985. Since then, the building has been used for restaurants. 14. Daes Chapel Methodist Church Washington Street This one story, wood framed church is an early 20th century church of the black community. The land and building, moved from another site, were donated by Miss Amanda Daes, a prominent black citizen of Clarkesville, who owned land across the county and operated a restaurant on the Square. 15. Sam Pitts Park Highway 197 North A recreational park on the banks of the Soque River. Named for Sam Pitts, city councilman and volunteer fireman who lost his life fighting a fire in 1979. 16. Porter-York House 299 Bridge Street The only major Greek Revival house in Clarkesville. Built in the early 1850s, it was the home of John Porter, an architect/builder. In early 20th century, this became the home of M.C. York. His interest in things mechanical led York to experiment with the new-fangled telephone. He connected his home and business (located in the Baron-York building) with telephone wire. Soon his neighbors were purchasing their own telephones to attach to his line; this became the Standard Telephone Company. 17. Griggs-Erwin-Dixon House 110 Bridge St. Mid 19th Century Plantation Plain type structure with Greek Revival and Victorian details. This was the home of William S. Erwin, a Civil War Captain and Clarkesville lawyer. 18. Furr-LambertLunsford House 323 Grant Street Queen Anne style house built for Ben Furr. Work of local builder John Lambert, and master carpenter Rusk Church. Property significant for its turn-of-thecentury use of the Furr farmstead. The farm stretched to modern day Hwy 197. It was one of the few farms in Clarkesville. 19. Asbury-Greene House 120 Asbury Street Significant as a late example of Plantation Plain type dwelling and a work of Rusk Church in 1901. Surrounded by formally landscaped grounds, containing the first Delco generator powerhouse in Clarkesville. The first owner, Henry Asbury, owned a hardware store on the Square. ! Appendix F Façade Grant Eligible Projects Façade & Sign improvement grant program The Clarkesville Main Street Façade/Sign Grant Program is funded by various fundraisers, donations and the City of Clarkesville. It is administered by the Façade Grant Committee (FGC). Downtown Clarkesville is in a Local Historic District, and all projects must adhere to Main Street Design Guidelines (attached). Façade Improvement Grant monies available are for exterior improvements only, and may be applied to a front, side, or rear facade, provided the facade faces a public street or parking area. Grants are available on a 50/50 matching basis with a cap of $2000 per grant. See Façade Grant Eligible Projects. Sign Grants are available on a 50/50 matching basis with a cap of $500 per grant. Grant funds are for signs which may include signboards, projecting signs and pedestrian signage (includes window sign, hanging sign and awning/canopy sign) for commercial buildings located in the downtown district. See Sign Design Guidelines. Any business located within the Historic Downtown District (see map) may apply for this grant. The amount of the match will be determined by the Façade Grant Committee based on design appeal, funds available and number of requests under consideration. The FGC reserves 80% of total funding for Façade Improvements, and 20% for Sign Grants. How does it work? All projects must first be submitted to Clarkesville Zoning Administrator/Planning Commission to determine if the proposed project adheres to city code and ordinances. Applicants are responsible for obtaining all necessary governmental permits and authorization. If the project meets program guidelines, the City Zoning Administrator will then give it to the Façade Grant Committee to either approve the project, approve it with conditions or deny the project. The FGC will meet to determine the award amount within 10 (ten) business days. At this point, a member of the FGC will be appointed to work directly with you. If approved, written notice will be sent to applicant and work can begin. PLEASE NOTE: WORK CANNOT BEGIN UNTIL YOU RECEIVE THIS WRITTEN NOTICE THAT THE PROJECT MAY PROCEED. Applicant has 90 days from the date of written notice to complete the work. Under certain circumstances, extensions may be requested in writing, but must not exceed 180 days. The grant will be paid to the recipient after work is completed and all bills relating to said work are paid, documented with receipts/copies of closed checks, as per agreement with the FGC. APPLICATION CONTENTS Completed application form Photos of existing building Photo/Drawing/Plans of proposed project (any visual supportive information to better understand the project) - architectural and design assistance is available through the Georgia Department of Community Affairs for a reduced fee starting at $50.00 depending on project scope and size. Itemized cost estimate (Labor/Materials must be listed separately) or contractors bid Letter of consent from property owner (if tenant is applying for grant) Downtown district FAÇADE GRANT HISTORY PRIORITY Originally created as one program in 2010, the Main ELIGIBLE Street Design Committee voted in 2014 to separate the Façade Grant and Sign Grant Programs. The main reason behind the decision was to further educate current and future business owners in the district about property and modern signage and continue to bring a fresh, stylish look to the commercial corridor. To date, Clarkesville Main Street has awarded local businesses nearly $20,000 for renovations and improvements to their signs and facades. Clarkesville Main Street Historic Mauldin House Visitors Center PO BOX 21 Clarkesville, GA 30523 706-754-2220 Façade improvement grant Eligible projects From minor improvements to full-scale restoration, a wide range of investment proposals will be considered, including: exterior painting * restoration of original and/or historic façade structural stabilization masonry cleaning (by gentlest means possible) ** canopies and awnings replacement/uncovering of architectural features exterior walls/materials gutters and downspouts exterior door & window repair/replacement and treatments decorative exterior architectural features (including light fixtures) Permanent landscaping Associated labor with said projects BEFORE AFTER Ineligible work includes but is not limited to: interior improvements of any type security systems general maintenance (except painting) personal property/equipment - interior window/door treatments *Exterior paint colors should be harmonious with the neighboring structures. Benjamin Moore Historic Preservation Palette is recommended and pre-approved. **Inappropriate chemical cleaners and sandblasting are strictly forbidden for surface cleaning of structures, due to possible damage to aged building components. BEFORE BEFORE AFTER AFTER sign grant Eligible projects Good signage should always complement the architecture of the building. Signs that are too large, too abundant, or out of place stylistically will convey a poor image and will detract from the aesthetic appeal and historic character of the building and Downtown Historic District. Good sign design considers all of the following factors: layout, composition, materials, color, size, graphics, typeface, and installation. Appropriate types of signs include the following: Three dimensional signs (carved wood and raised letter signs) are required Flush, flat mounted signboards with raised letters (at least 1” thick) Gilded or painted lettering on the storefront display windows Lettering stenciled or sewn to the flap of the awning. Hanging signs/Projecting Signs (three-dimensional preferred) Clarkesville Main Street Façade Improvement and Sign Grant Program A PPL I C A T I O N-2014 Name: _______________________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________ Project/Building Address: __________________________________________ Tenant Name: __________________________________________________ Property Owner’s Name: ___________________________________________ I am applying for a (circle one): Façade Grant Sign Grant ________________________(max. award of $2000.00)__(max. award of $500.00)_____ What must I do to obtain the grant? Complete the application form and return to the Clarkesville Main Street office. Tenants must include a letter of permission from the property owner. Attachments required: 1. 2. 3. 4. Itemized cost estimate (Labor/Materials separately) or contractors bid; Letter of consent from property owner (if tenant is applying for grant); Drawings, photos and/or architects plans for project; Current Photograph of building. Brief Description of the Project: _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ The Clarkesville Main Street Façade Grant Committee (FGC) will review applications and notify awardees within ten (10) business days in writing. All work must be completed within 90 days of written notification of the grant award. All necessary permits from Clarkesville Zoning Administrator must be obtained before construction commences. The grant money will not be disbursed until the Clarkesville Main Street FGC and the City of Clarkesville’s Zoning Administrator have inspected the completed project and reviewed proof of expenditures i.e., receipts, invoices, and cancelled checks, etc. Because of limited funds available, the Clarkesville Main Street FGC will process the applications in the order they are received; 80% of funds will go toward Façade Improvements; 20% toward Sign Grants. Grant funds will not be issued to the same project more than twice in a three year period with a maximum grant of $2,000.00 (Façade) and $500.00 (sign) per property owner per year. Approved projects limited by funding one year can be wait-listed for the following year with applicant approval. Tenants with lease-hold agreements with same property owner can apply for improvements on case-by-case basis. All applications are subject to the discretion of the FGC. The FGC reserves the right to deny any application. I, the undersigned, understand that the façade grant must be used for the project described in this application. I have read the requirements and agree to follow them. I understand that upon project completion, I must provide proof of payment for expenditures in order to be reimbursed. Signature: ____________________________ Date: __________________ OPTIONAL Office of Downtown Development Design Services Design Request 225 W. Broad St, Athens, GA 30601; phone: 706.583.2734; fax: 706.425.3080 Form revised 3-2010 Type of Service Requested City: Project name: Drawing ($50/$75/$150/____________) Project address: Custom work/landscape & master plans ($150 and up ____________________) Owner: Drawings are $50 for Better Hometown cities and $75 for Main Street cities. Projects involving more than one facade will cost more, as will large landscape plans and master plans. How do we contact the owner? Other project contact: For cities not in the Main Street/Better Hometown program, drawings are $150 and up. Phone or e-mail: Type of request: Status: Amount of money that owner plans to spend on project When will construction begin? Will the owner apply for historic preservation tax credits for this project? Age of building Exterior materials on the building Building - Facade design Landscape Building - Complete rehab Other Looking for ideas Ready to begin work All checks should be made out to the Georgia Trust. (Each payment to the Georgia Trust earns a complimentary one-year membership to the person obtaining service or to a named party.) Please include photos of the property. Old photos are especially helpful if they can be found. Check here if you are sending photos by e-mail. Please e-mail them to [email protected] Return completed form to Steve Storey, Manager, Design Services, Georgia Dept of Community Affairs, 225 W. Broad St., Athens, GA 30601. Phone: 706-583-2734, Fax: 706-425-3080. Office Use Only Received: Assigned: Completed: Designer: Comments: Project description Send drawing to: Send bill to: DCA is pleased to contract with the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation and the University of Georgia College of Environment & Design to provide design services as a benefit of participation in the Main Street and Better Hometown programs. ! Appendix G Sign Design Guidelines Sign Permit Application Requirements & Process Signs erected prior to obtaining a permit shall be charged a 100% penalty of the permit fee and may be subject to removal by the owner or building official. No exceptions. The following information MUST be included with the sign permit application: a) Ownership information b) Sign company information c) Type of material(s) used to construct sign along with colors. d) Accurate sign measurements Professional drawings are highly suggested, and shall be required for signs located in any of the Clarkesville Preservation Districts. Sign Permitting Process: Sign requests shall go before the Planning Commission, which meet on the third (3rd) Tuesday of each month. Note: All signage to be installed in the Downtown Business (DT) Preservation District must be seen by the Main Street Design Committee prior to presentation to the Planning Commission. Permit#:___________ City of Clarkesville P.O. Box 21 Clarkesville, GA 30523 Tel: 706 754 4216 Fax: 706 754 9316 P Permanent Sign Application And Permit To Erect, Install and Display Sign(s) Applicant Name: Applicant Address: Business Name: Contact Name and Telephone: Sign Company Used: Telephone: City, State, Zip: Business Address: Cell: Sign Permit Regulations Article VIII, Section 805 of the Code of the City of Clarkesville requires that an application for a permit to erect, construct, enlarge, move or convert signs shall be made to the Zoning Administrator upon forms furnished by him. Such application shall include information such as, ownership information, location construction cost, scaled site plans and elevation drawings, structural details and other necessary information to insure compliance with the provisions of these regulations and all applicable codes. Signs erected prior to obtaining a permit shall be charged a 100% penalty of the permit fee. Signs and Sign Devices Prohibited: Abandoned, animated, signs over or on public property, internally illuminated, off site (i.e. billboards), roof, painted or attached to natural features and attached or painted on vehicles parked adjacent to and visible from a street for the sole purpose of advertising onto said street. Public purposes are exempt. Please provide a sketch with measurements of the location, elevation and size of the sign(s): Attached specifications and drawings NO FREESTANDING SIGN SHALL EXCEED TEN FEET (10') ABOVE GRADE Site Plan: Y/N Elevation Plan: Y/N Materials Specs: Y/N Sq Ft.________ Applicant Signature: Date: Action Taken: Date: Zoning Administrator: Date: City Clerk: Amt: By: Date: ! Appendix H Resolution of Support ! Appendix I Soque Scenic Byway Map H A B ERSHAM COUNT Y R A BU N COUNT Y S O Q U E S C E N I C B Y WAY Habersham County, Georgia TH TO L AKE BUR TO N GA 19 7N OR TO S AU T E E N ACO O C H E E & UN ICO I S TAT E PA RK RA 6 RM 35 PE GA W ES OU WHITE COU NT Y AIN NT T 6 TA L LU L A H FA L L S RO H A B E R S H AM COU N T Y AD 7 OA KE Y M OU AI NT N GA RO 7N AD 19 ST OR 11 9 S. 44 1 D YR IC AL ERT 8 LIB 4 HI TH NEW OR TO S AU T E E N ACO O C H E E & U N I CO I S TAT E PARK 10 TH EO RC H D AR RO U. GA 255 WE ST 5 AD RT 97 NO GA 1 L EG EN D H SOQU E SC EN I C BY WAY COU N T Y BOU N DA RY C I T Y BOU N DA RY 3 ROA D S CL ARKESVILLE GA 197 NO RTH 2 DE MOREST 1 CO R N ELIA 1 DEMOREST PARK 2 PIEDMONT COLLEGE 3 CLARKESVILLE SQUARE 4 “THE DIP” 5 MARK OF THE POTTER 6 BATESVILLE GENERAL STORE 7 OAKEY MOUNTAIN CHURCH 8 UNITY CHURCH 9 MACEDONIA CHURCH 10 NEW LIBERTY METHODIST CHURCH 11 PANTHER CREEK RECREATION AREA ! Appendix J Certified Letter from the OAAG K Soque Scenic Byway Committee Members The following individuals have contributed to the Soque Scenic Byway Committee in some capacity since 2011: Alta Mosely Anne Short Chip Brooks Cindy Angliss Deborah Kilgore Ed Kivett Gay McCrillis Jimmy Tench Leland Smith Mary Beth Horton Mike van Winkle Pete Davitto Robert Kilgore Tom Braswell Walton Smith