The Ohio Department of Transportation in cooperation with the village of Johnstown is developing the safety improvement project at the intersection of US 62 and SR 37.  The proposed project limits extend along US 62 from the intersection with Oregon Street to Kasson Street and along SR 37 from the intersection with Maple Street to Pratt Street. 

The proposed project will entail the following:

1)      Improve turning radii at the intersection of US 62 and SR 37

2)      Lengthening existing turn lanes at the intersection of US 62 and SR 37

3)      Removing existing traffic signal at Pratt Street

4)      Mill/fill within the proposed project area

5)      Reconstruct and/or install ADA ramps at all intersections within the proposed project area

6)      On Street parking will be removed along SR 37

7)      Upgrade traffic signals and poles at Oregon Street/US 62 and SR 37/US 62 intersections

8)      Decorative treatments, consisting of stamped brick crosswalks, bump outs, and mast arm poles will be installed at the intersection of US 62 and SR 37

Section 4(f) Property - Bigelow Park

Bigelow Park is a recognized recreational property that is afforded protection under the requirements of Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation (DOT) Act of 1966.   Use of Federal Funds subjects the proposed undertaking to the requirements of this federal law that protects publicly owned parks, recreation areas, wildlife and waterfowl refuges, and public or privately-owned historical resources.  

Bigelow Park, which includes the Monroe Township Hall and Opera House, is open to the public and maintained and operated by the village of Johnstown.  The park contains a bandstand (gazebo), park benches, green space, and a brick seating area surrounding a clock.  Bigelow Park is a main gathering point for festivals, events, and village activities throughout the year.  Although a portion of the park is owned by Monroe Township, a resolution passed on March 6, 2010, recognized that the village of Johnstown would represent the township during project decision-making and be the Official with Jurisdiction over Bigelow Park.     

Impacts to Bigelow Park Land from Bigelow Park in the amount of 0.023 acre of permanent right-of-way, 0.23 acre of temporary right-of-way is required in order to facilitate the improvement of turning radii at the US 62/SR 37 intersection (southeast quadrant) and at the intersection of Oregon and US 62.  This includes removal of a brick bench at this location.      

Measures to Minimize Harm/Assessment of Impacts

Due to the scope of the proposed undertaking, measures to minimize harm to Bigelow Park have been developed.  These measures create a de minimis impact (as defined in 23 CFR 774.17) on the property.  A de minimis impact is one that will not adversely affect the features, attributes, or activities that qualifies Bigelow Park for protection under Section 4(f).

Based upon discussions held with the village of Johnstown and representatives from council, the following commitments to minimize harm will be incorporated into plan notes and the environmental document:

-      The existing clock and two brick benches located in the southeast quadrant of the intersection will be avoided;

-       A new brick bench will be installed near the intersection of US 62 and Oregon Road at a location designated by the village of Johnstown.  This will be a listed commitment in the plan notes and the environmental document;

-      The existing brick pavers located near the intersection of US 62 and SR 37 will be removed prior to construction activities and used to restore the area after construction activities;

-      Temporary construction fencing will be installed along proposed project limits prior to the start of construction activities to protect the existing Section 4(f) property (Bigelow Park) and the public;

-       Access to Bigelow Park will be maintained at all times during construction activities;

-      And the contractor will be required to closely coordinate the construction schedule with the village of Johnstown and ODOT.

Based upon the proposed scope of work, the following assessment has been made with respect to the proposed transportation improvement:

1.       The proposed undertaking includes all possible planning to minimize harm to the Section 4(f) Property (Bigelow Park) in consultation with the village of Johnstown;

2.       The primary components and attributes of Bigelow Park will not be substantively impaired by the proposed undertaking;

3.       Construction activities will not create permanent adverse physical impacts nor permanent interference with the activities or use of recreational facilities within Bigelow Park in whole or in part; 

4.       Considering avoidance, minimization, and enhancement measures incorporated into project development, the proposed undertaking will not adversely affect the features and functions that qualify Bigelow Park for protection under Section 4(f);

5.      The proposed scope of work and the magnitude of changes to the Section 4(f) property (Bigelow Park) are minimal;

6.      And the assessment of impacts and proposed mitigation in regards to maintaining access and safety, are considered to be reasonable and acceptable.

While the proposed undertaking is related to transportation improvements, no change in ownership to Bigelow Park will take place.  Furthermore, the overall quality and safety for general users of park facilities will not be compromised or diminished.

In order to complete Section 4(f) requirements, there must be documented agreement of the appropriate Federal, State or Local Officials having jurisdiction over Bigelow Park regarding the above conditions and assessment.  If you concur with the conditions and assessment of impacts regarding the proposed undertaking, please sign and date on the line provided below and return this correspondence at your earliest convenience. 

Thank you for your time and assistance in this regard.  Should you have any questions, please contact me at (740) 323-5191 or amy.toohey@dot.state.oh.us.