Eastman Community Association

Recreation Master Plan Task Force (RTF) Final Report Submitted by Todd Webber, Chair First Published October 2022 Amended with Survey Results March 2023

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023

Table of Contents Acknowledgements....................................................................................................................................... 3 Executive Summary....................................................................................................................................... 4 Background and Mission ............................................................................................................................... 7 Committee Structure and Organization........................................................................................................ 7 Final Report Structure and Organization ...................................................................................................... 7 Community Outreach.................................................................................................................................... 8 Survey Purpose ......................................................................................................................................... 8 Survey Structure ....................................................................................................................................... 9 Finance and Budget Considerations and Actions.......................................................................................... 9 FYE 2023 .................................................................................................................................................... 9 FYE 2024 though FYE 2033...................................................................................................................... 10 Budget Constraints and Recommendations ........................................................................................... 10 Opportunities for External Funding ........................................................................................................ 11 Eastman Property Available for New or Enhanced Amenities.................................................................... 11 Racquets and Gardens ................................................................................................................................ 12 Purpose ................................................................................................................................................... 12 Discovery ................................................................................................................................................. 12 Findings ................................................................................................................................................... 12 Recommendations .................................................................................................................................. 14 Lakes and Trails ........................................................................................................................................... 15 Purpose ................................................................................................................................................... 15 Discovery ................................................................................................................................................. 15 Findings ................................................................................................................................................... 16 Trail 5 (aka Brook Trail and Troll Trail) ................................................................................................ 16 Trail 6 (aka South Cove to West Cove Trail) ........................................................................................ 17 Andy’s Alley Alternative ...................................................................................................................... 17 John’s Glen, Trail 9, and Craig’s Corridor ............................................................................................ 18 The ”Central Artery” ........................................................................................................................... 18 Trail 8 (aka Deer Path Trail)................................................................................................................. 19 Hiking trails under Woodlands & Wildlife stewardship ...................................................................... 19 Additional parking at trailheads and beaches .................................................................................... 20 Mountain Bike Trails ........................................................................................................................... 21 1

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 Road Round the Lake pedestrian pathways ....................................................................................... 21 Other defined walk loops .................................................................................................................... 22 Docks, Racks, Launch Sites, Boat Wash Stations, and Motorized Boats ............................................. 22 Recommendations: ................................................................................................................................. 23 New and Other ........................................................................................................................................ 24 Purpose ............................................................................................................................................... 24 Discovery ............................................................................................................................................. 24 Findings ............................................................................................................................................... 25 Recommendation:............................................................................................................................... 28 Findings, Conclusions, and Action Steps Based on Survey Results ............................................................. 28 Appendix I: Table of Reference Documents ........................................................................................... 30 Appendix II: Table of Budget Documents ............................................................................................... 31 Appendix III: Table of Survey Documents ............................................................................................... 32 Appendix IV: Table of Recommended Successor Organizations ............................................................ 33

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RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023

Acknowledgements I want to acknowledge and give special thanks to all those who contributed to the findings and recommendations of the RTF. •

Officers: Bruce Altobelli, Vice Chair, and Gabrielle Egger, Secretary

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Subgroup leads: Laura Chen, Judi Dixon, Amy Hoffman, Nancy Menton, Brian Milauskas, Sally Olsen, Beth Truax

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ECA Staff (past and present): Steve Schneider, Leslie Moses, Rob Nolek, Terry Large, Mike Gornnert

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At-large members who contributed during the planning and discovery phase: Rob Cricco, Yevette Garnham, Tom Hermanson, Ken Katsirebas, Leslie MacGregor, Andrea Murphy, Paul Nicolai, Jill Oxford, Melinda Stewart, Mitch Utell, Jamie Walsh

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Special Survey Contributors: Rick Karash and Lorie McClory

. . . and to all the Board members and Eastman residents who provided insights and ideas during the RTF community outreach efforts. Regards, Todd Webber, Chair

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RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023

The original RTF Report was published as a DRAFT in October 2022, which occurred prior to the Survey. Survey results and updates will be highlighted by Bold Red Text or within a Red Text Box in this FINAL RTF Report, as illustrated with this comment. No other changes are made to the DRAFT Report other than those noted above, the addition of Appendix III and IV, and an update to the Table of Contents. Links to the Survey results, an Executive Summary of the Survey results, and a Compendium of Open Comment Questions can be found in Appendix III as SurveyDoc #1, SurveyDoc#2, and SurveyDoc#3, respectively. A list of “successor” organizations recommended by the RTF to follow through on the various survey topics once the RTF is disbanded can be found in Appendix IV.

Executive Summary Background

In April 2021, the ECA Council and Board jointly created a Recreation Master Plan Task Force (“RTF”) with a specific charge to develop a 10-year strategic plan for Eastman’s recreational amenities. The RTF held its first meeting in May 2021 with 21 committee members divided amongst three major recreational subgroups: Racquets and Gardens, Lakes and Trails, and New and Other. The subgroups inventoried and assessed all the existing amenities and identified opportunities for new or enhanced amenities. As part of the discovery and due diligence process, community input was gathered during nine Zoom events in December 2021 as well as numerous meetings conducted with special interests and Eastman standing committees. The information was reviewed and consolidated into 30 specific projects, which were submitted to the Capital Improvements Committee (CIC) for inclusion in the CIC’s 10-year capital plan beginning FYE 2024. Although none of the projects have been approved, the projects are now bookmarked, which means they will be reviewed on an annual basis for budget consideration. To help the CIC, the Finance and Budget Committee, the Board, and in some cases, the Council, make informed decisions on where to deploy ECA assets for recreational amenities, the RTF created an online, community-wide survey (the Survey) using the 30 projects as a baseline. The goal is to ascertain the level of support for each of the 30 projects, and better understand the recreational interests of the community. The Survey was administered in early November 2022. Results will be published during the first quarter of 2023.

Racquets and Gardens

For Racquets and Gardens, the RTF’s work focused on the Draper Road complex, which is home to the tennis courts and community garden, and the Glenwood Road complex, which is home to the new pickleball courts. For each complex, the RTF recommends an engineering study, including cost and layout designs, to improve parking, traffic flow, toilet facilities, an office and storage facilities, viewing areas, grounds, and signage, and expanded, enhanced, or new amenities relevant to each site. Based on the engineering study, priorities established by the Survey, and available funds, the RTF believes work could commence as one major project, or phased over time as smaller, coordinated projects.

Lakes and Trails

For Trails, the RTF focused on projects that would promote biking, walking, accessibility, and connectivity. More specifically, are the trails adequate for winter use as cross-country ski (X-C) trails, summer use for easy walking and off-road biking, accessible for all generations and people with mobility 4

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 issues, and do the trails create a network of paths that are connected, and purposeful. To that end, the RTF recommends extensive trail work on ECA-maintained trails to create a “Central Artery”: A six mile “carriage road” equivalent, starting with the West Cove fire roads and extending to Trail 6 (aka South Cove to West Cove), Trail 5 (aka Brook Trail), an alternative to the abandoned Andy’s Alley, and continuing through an “improved” John’s Glen trail system. The Central Artery would intersect with multiple trails and parking areas along the way. In addition, the RTF recommends that the Recreation Committee (RC) and the Woodlands and Wildlife Committee (W&W) create a joint task force to develop a proposal to create safe walking and biking paths that connect all neighborhoods to the major amenities at Eastman, to include The Center at Eastman, the South Cove Activity Center, the beaches, and the two racquet facilities. The RTF envisions this proposal to utilize existing low traffic gravel roads and existing X-C ski paths, to upgrade certain existing walking paths and, where necessary, to create new walking and bike paths employing existing easements. The next priority should be improvements to Trail 8 (aka Deer Path), to minimize wet areas and steep grades, followed by improvements to the remaining sections of the Lake Trail (specifically north of the West Cove parking lot, traveling clockwise around the Lake to the South Cove beach) to make it more walkable for the average person. Perhaps the most ambitious recommendation is a pedestrian path of some sort on Road Round the Lake (RRL). The path, especially on the south, east and north of the lake will be a critical component of a network to connect neighborhoods to South Cove and all the beaches. This project, as well as some of the trail work proposed, is a potential candidate for external funding, so a high price shouldn’t be a deterrent to serious consideration. Recommendations for Lakes will be heavily shaped by results of the Survey. Residents will have an opportunity to express their opinion on boat storage racks, dock space, use of gasoline engines and speed limits on the lake, and accessible parking for all.

New and Other

This was a catchall for enhancements to existing amenities and new amenities identified as desirable during the community outreach effort. The list includes large items such as a dog park, expanded basketball court, large playground, and skateboard park, to smaller, more manageable items, such as a designated area for bocce and other lawn games, and an e-bike rental program. A multi-use, indoor sports facility was the largest budget item submitted for New and Other. If funded, the likely spot for this facility is on or adjacent to ECA property near Route 10. The RTF believes a fee-based, public/private partnership managed by an outside group, and available to both Eastman residents and the public may represent the best approach for success. Each of these amenity areas, and more, are described in more detail in the body of the report with links to supporting documents in the appendices.

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RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 Summary of Survey Results based on RTF overall rating system. Results could change based on the sway of neutral respondents. See Surveydoc #1 for detailed charts of each amenity idea.

Strongly Support

Walking Loops with Off-Road Parking Benches - Add to trails Nature Education Stations Ban Gasoline Powered Boats Limit Horsepower on Boats Long-Track Ice Skating Trail on Lake Gardens - Expand Capacity Gardens - Bee Keeping Area Snow Tubing Playground - Larger Grassy Area for Play Lawn Games Outdoor Basketball - Expand Soccer Field e-Bike Rental Program

Strongly Oppose

Hot Tub - Add Racquet - Build Platform Tennis Skateboard Park Multi-purpose Sports Facility Outdoor Performance Area Golf Simulator

Divided

Trail 6 - Improve RRL Walk/Bike Lanes Sauna - Add

Support

Mountain Bike - New Trails Andy's Alley Alternative Kayak Launches on Eastman and Bog Brooks Boat Wash Station on Draper Road Locker Rooms - Improve Game Room - Improve Ice Rink - Add Second Dog Park Bouldering Wall Gathering Places - Add

Oppose

Walk Bike Lanes Other Bridge - Heath Forest to John's Glen Trail 8 - Switchbacks to Clearwater Drive Cross-fit Stations Overnight Camping Sites - Add Archery Range Racquet - Tennis Improvements

Neutral - Undecided

Trail 5 Improvements Trail 8 Improve Drainage Carriage-Type Path - Build New Racquet - Pickleball Improvements

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RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023

Background and Mission In April 2021, the Recreation Master Plan Task Force (RTF) was created, with joint approval by the Board and Council, to develop a 10-year master plan for recreational amenities. In September of 2021, the RTF became a subcommittee of the RC to ensure continuity of the RTF mission once the RTF published its findings and disbanded. More specifically, and with the Strategic Plan 2030 (see RefDoc #1) as its guide, the RTF was tasked with: 1. establishing a ten-year master plan for recreational opportunities and facilities with short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals; 2. coordinating the goals in the Master Plan with ECA’s annual operating and capital budgeting process and cycle; 3. ensuring that ideas and proposals for new or enhanced recreational activities, amenities, and facilities receive proper and timely consideration; and 4. establishing a process and owner for an annual review of the Master Plan. See RefDoc #2 for the complete RTF Charge.

Committee Structure and Organization The RTF was organized as a matrix organization, with an Executive Committee consisting of the chair, vice chair and secretary; a Steering Committee consisting of the Executive Committee, ECA Staff, and Subgroup leads; and Subgroups dealing with functional areas and amenity areas. Functional subgroups dealt with finance and legal issues (understanding the Declaration of Covenants and Restrictions [DCR] and Eastman budgeting process), operations and facilities (finding suitable locations for the amenities), and community outreach (seeking ways to get community input). The functional groups supported the efforts of the amenity groups. Amenity groups dealt with those amenities akin to the name of the group, Lakes and Trails (ECA-maintained trails, trails under the stewardship of the W&W, and recreational programs related to the Eastman Lake), Racquets and Gardens (tennis, pickleball, and community garden), and New and Other (everything else). RTF members served on one functional group and one amenity group to encourage communication and share ideas and findings amongst the groups.

Final Report Structure and Organization This report represents the findings and recommendations of the RTF prior to the Survey. An addendum to this report will be published along with the Survey results in the first quarter of 2023. Additional addendums will be added as the budget proposals are considered and further analysis is warranted. The body of the report mirrors the responsibilities of each subgroup. There will be sections devoted to functional areas such as finance and budget, properties, and community outreach; and sections devoted to the subgroup amenities. Each amenity group will have a section devoted to the purpose, discovery, findings, and recommendations of the RTF. The reporting found in the body of this document will be supported by two appendices. 7

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 Appendix I will have a table listing all the supporting documents (excluding budget request documents). Each supporting document is numbered RefDoc #1, #2, etc. (short for reference document), with a short description and a link which, when clicked, will launch a PDF, or take you to the Eastman portal for the supporting information. The RefDocs are numbered according to when they are first referenced in the report. Appendix II includes a table listing all of the 30 budget requests submitted by the RTF for the 10-year period of FYE 2024 through FYE 2033. Each request is numbered BudDoc #1, #2, etc. (short for budget document), with a short description, and a link which, when clicked, will launch a PDF version of the completed CIC online form. BudDocs will be referenced throughout the report, providing the reader with more detailed information for each project idea. Appendix III has been added to the FINAL Report. Appendix III includes a table listing all of the Survey result documents, including the complete Survey results, an Executive Summary of the Survey results, and a Compendium of Open Comment Questions.

Community Outreach Although the RTF membership represented a nice cross section of the Eastman Community, the RTF mission was broad-based and required community-wide input. To that end, the RTF reached out to special interest groups, recognized standing committees, and residents with subject matter expertise. Input came from both conversations and memos. On a more formal basis, the RTF hosted nine Zoom meetings in December 2022. Topics, days, and times of meetings were rotated to give anyone who wanted to comment an opportunity to do so. Although the conversations were productive and many of the ideas became part of the RTF recommendations, the participation was relatively low, so input collected at the Zoom meetings may not be representative of the community at-large. Hence, the need for a community-wide survey. In August 2022, the Board gave the green light for the Survey. The Survey will be administered online in November 2022, with results published in the first quarter of 2023. Results of the Survey will guide the decision-making process for future capital outlays. The Survey purpose and structure are detailed below, and a PDF version of the Survey can be found in RefDoc #3 (to be added after results are published). A hard copy of the Survey has now been added to Appendix I as RefDoc #3. Bar charts with results from relevant survey questions have been inserted where appropriate. Please reference the Survey and complete Survey results for more detailed information and context.

Survey Purpose 1. Discover the recreational wants and needs of both the new and long-term Eastman residents; last “recreation-focused” survey was 2016. 8

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 2. Validate ideas and assumptions garnered from RTF outreach, open forums, and brainstorming 3. Establish priorities: a. for where we should spend our time, e.g., further discovery, planning, execution b. for how we should spend our money 4. Create a foundation for a 10-year master recreation plan

Survey Structure 1. 2. 3. 4.

Introduction (via cover email) Instructions Questions asking for the level of satisfaction for broad categories of existing amenities Questions asking for the level of support for new and enhanced amenities a. Questions are grouped into types of amenities, e.g., bike and walk trails, lakes and beaches, racquet sports, amenities within and around South Cove, other ideas. b. Each suggestion is accompanied by the anticipated level of investment, i.e., small, modest, large, very large. Descriptors provided. 5. Additional questions asking for impressions on the number of boat racks and boat docks, and thoughts on motorized boats and accessibility to amenities 6. Attitudinal questions 7. Demographic questions Should the color code titles be word caps as they are in the paragraph? If a too much work, no worries. Below are color codes to interpret charts related to specific survey questions or topics that are included in the Final Report. Each chart will have the total number of respondents, as well as the number of respondents per selection, ranging from Strongly oppose to Strongly support, Strongly dissatisfied to Strongly satisfied as the case may be. The designations of very large, large, modest, and small relate to the investment level that may be needed to implement the suggestion. See Survey and Survey Results for detailed information and context.

Finance and Budget Considerations and Actions FYE 2023 Despite a May 2021 kick-off and a mission that was focused on a 10-year plan, the CIC requested the RTF to consider some pressing FYE 2023 budget items, with recommendations due in July 2021. To that end, the RTF evaluated three potential projects: pickleball court rehabilitation, additional boat racks, and expansion of the community garden. Pickleball Courts. A rehabilitation of the pickleball courts was already being considered, with ideas and budgets in process. The RTF supported a proposal to make the Glenwood Road tennis and pickleball complex a dedicated pickleball complex and increase the number of courts from four to six. A $75,000 proposal was approved (later increased to $118,000 to reflect inflationary pressures), and the pickleball courts were constructed. Ribbon cutting took place on September 4, 2022.

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RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 Boat Racks. The Board had already approved two out-of-cycle funding requests for additional boat racks and was considering further investment for FYE 2023. The RTF supported further investment. Subsequently, $25,000 was proposed and approved for site work at South Cove to accept new boat racks already purchased. The site work required NH Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) permits, which is still in process. The site work is expected to be completed in in time for the 2023 summer boating season. Community Garden. Demand for garden space had increased substantially at the start of COVID-19, and early-on, FYE 2021 budgets included a line item of $95,000 to expand the community garden at its current location off Draper Road. Ultimately, the budget request was denied due to the high cost and uncertain demand post-COVID. The RTF revisited the estimate and the demand for more community garden space for FYE 2023. The RTF determined that the peak demand for garden plots had decreased and concurred that a $95,000 project was unrealistic. The RTF also felt an overall plan for the Draper Road complex should be developed before committing to a major community garden investment. Alternative, lower-cost ideas to address the demand were suggested, such as a temporary garden site at another location (e.g., former West Cove tennis courts), but none gathered enough momentum for an action plan. Therefore, the RTF did not recommend a budget line item for community garden expansion in FYE 2023, and no budget was approved. The RTF has submitted a budget for garden expansion as part of the 10-year budget plan (see BudDoc #1).

FYE 2024 though FYE 2033 Assessing recreational needs, making recommendations, and submitting budgets for a 10-year master plan was one of the main objectives of the RTF. Coincidentally, the RTF mission and objectives synced perfectly with the CIC’s community-wide call for capital requests over a 10-year period. Consequently, the RTF took advantage of the CIC’s initiative to finalize and document all the RTF findings and recommendations, using the same process available to every Eastman resident for capital requests. To that end, 30 recreation-centric proposals were submitted using the CIC on-line submittal form. The form captures all the information needed for an informed budget decision, including purpose, cost estimates, timelines, community benefit, etc. In short, the CIC process and online form were the perfect tools for the RTF to organize and present its findings and recommendations for its own 10-year plan as well as meet the overall objective of the CIC.

Budget Constraints and Recommendations The Eastman budget for new capital expenditures is very limited through FYE 2028, when debt for The Center at Eastman and Maintenance building rolls off the balance sheet. Even then, capital for new and enhanced recreational amenities will be limited under existing DCR rules, Board guidance for reserves, and spending restrictions based on the source of the capital. For instance, the capital portion of the Eastman assessment can only be spent to maintain existing assets based on a prescribed schedule to replace, repair, and refurbish (RRR). The only other mechanism to raise capital, short of a special assessment (which nobody likes), is the membership fee paid when a house is purchased. However, membership fees are unrestricted, so can be spent for any capital requirement. Therefore, the RTF encourages the CIC, Board, and if needed, the Council (DCR change), to consider new ways to raise or shift capital from one use to another, with the result to increase capital for new and enhanced recreational amenities. Possibilities include increasing the membership fee, lowering the capital reserve requirements, shifting surplus operating funds to capital, and making more lease vs. buy decisions. 10

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023

Opportunities for External Funding Given the known budget constraints, the RTF strongly suggests that Eastman explore alternative funding sources. This may not be possible for all projects, but some projects are candidates for external funding. Therefore, the RTF recommends the following: 1. seek grants from non-profit organizations. New and enhanced trails might be a good candidate, especially if the trails meet some level of ADA compliance. Local non-profits and land trusts have a track record of supporting this type of recreational amenity, including the Ausbon Sargent Land Preservation Trust, Jack and Dorothy Byrne Foundation, Upper Valley Land Trust, and Eastman Charitable Foundation. 2. seek subsidies for pedestrian pathways through federal, state, and local government agencies. 3. seek cooperative agreements with special interest groups advocating for new amenities. By way of example, Eastman could lease Eastman property at a modest price to a special interest group. In turn, the special interest group could raise funds and provide leasehold improvements. The dog park might be a candidate for this type of arrangement. 4. seek partnerships with business entities willing to build, manage, and maintain a sought-after amenity that Eastman alone could not support. By way of example, Eastman could lease Eastman property at a modest price, or guarantee membership fees on behalf of Eastman residents, to encourage outside investment. The indoor multi-sport facility might be a candidate for this type of arrangement.

Eastman Property Available for New or Enhanced Amenities The RTF Operations and Facilities subgroup was tasked with identifying all the Eastman common property, clusters of retired lots, and adjacent non-Eastman property that could be suitable for recreational amenities. Once identified, the subgroup was asked to prioritize each amenity that could be sited on the property. Factors such as location, proximity to abutters, utility hookups (electricity, water), current use, traffic flow, topography, available parking, etc. were considered. This was done for vacant properties as well as those with existing facilities and grounds that could accommodate another amenity. The RTF found several properties that are excellent candidates for new, enhanced, or displaced recreational amenities. The short list includes the following locations: • • • • • • • • • •

Stump Dump Frog Pond former West Cove tennis courts common property on the corner of Wellfield Road and Glenwood Road across from the pickleball courts land that is currently hosting another amenity, such as the Draper Road Complex and the South Cove ballpark areas of Snow Hill retired lots GW10-26, GW10-28 through GW10-31 off Greensward Drive retired lot NC3-102 at the corner of Loon Drive and Cherry Lane easements which could, whether standalone or linked, create opportunities for new trails to connect roads, other trails, and common property non-Eastman lots abutting Eastman land on the corner of Draper Road and Route 10 11

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 See RefDoc #4 for site locations and RefDoc #5 for more information, including a priority ranking for each amenity by location. As new facilities and land use are considered by Eastman, the RTF recommends the sites listed above remain top-of-mind for recreational use. Concurrent with the RTF’s land use analysis, the Common Properties Committee (CPC) conducted its own land use analysis, but with a broader agenda, i.e., identify all common property available for all types of uses. See RefDoc #6 for the CPC findings. The RTF is delighted to report that sites identified as suitable for recreational amenities were also identified for recreational amenities by the CPC, although the CPC may have recommended competing uses as well.

Racquets and Gardens Purpose Assess the current tennis, pickleball, and community garden facilities for capacity, functionality, and overall experience. Racquets and Gardens are grouped together because the primary tennis facility and community garden share the same facility off Draper Road, and future work done on one could affect the other. Therefore, the analysis concentrated on the physical site, as well as the adequacy of the courts, garden plots, and associated amenities and utilities.

Discovery Information was gathered from: 1. subgroup members, which included a mix of tennis players, pickleball players, and gardeners 2. meetings with numerous members of the Eastman tennis community, speaking on behalf of their organizations (Eastman Community Tennis Association, the RC’s Racquet Sports Subcommittee, tennis team captains) 3. community garden leaders, specifically Chair Cathy Lacombe 4. multiple site visits, including with ECA staff, by both the Racquet and Gardens, and Facilities and Operations subgroups 5. 2016 Draper Road Study (see RefDoc #7) 6. comments gleaned from the series of open forums conducted in late 2021 (see RefDoc #8) 7. Draper Road Lawn Games proposal submitted by John Larrabee and Gary Duval (see RefDoc #9)

Findings For tennis, it was determined that the eight Har-Tru courts at the Draper Road facility were sufficient to meet current and future demand. Court maintenance and repair should be analyzed on an annual basis, and the RRR schedule should be adjusted accordingly. Modest capital and operating improvements should be monitored by the RC’s Racquet Sports Subcommittee and recommendations made for capital and operating budgets on an annual basis. With input from the tennis community and ECA Summer Youth Program staff, a decision was made during the budget cycle of FY2023 to eliminate the asphalt tennis court at the Glenwood Road facility to expand and improve the pickleball facility (see pickleball facility below). There are no plans to replicate the asphalt tennis court at any other Eastman site. 12

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 For the community garden, it was determined that more information about garden demand was needed to significantly change or add plots. Although a significant expansion plan was budgeted in FYE 2021, estimates far exceeded expectations, and the expansion project was put on hold, creating an opportunity to reassess. Data suggest there is demand for additional garden space and, perhaps just as important, demand for larger plots from existing gardeners; however, there are no clear trends established, so more data needs to be gathered and analyzed over the next few years. Typically, annual demand exceeds capacity on average by five to seven gardeners (those unable to receive a plot are waitlisted), but turnover allows most people on the waitlist to receive a plot within two gardening seasons. There was a significant spike in demand during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the numbers have returned to normal levels since then; hence, the need to monitor the demand levels to see if changing demographics and turnover ratios suggest expansion. As previously noted, the RTF submitted a budget for community garden expansion as part of the 10-year budget plan to ensure the topic is reviewed on an annual basis (see BudDoc #1).

For the Draper Road complex (independent of the amenities located at the site), there was consensus from both tennis players and gardeners that the site needs improvements, primarily based on utility and safety. Parking, traffic flow, basic amenities such as bathrooms, landscaping, viewing areas, etc., are all considered substandard. Therefore, the most pressing need is for an engineering study to focus on the following areas of concern at the Draper Road complex (aka RFP): 1. take a holistic view of total complex, including upper and lower courts and community garden, improve traffic flow and parking with ease of access and pedestrian safety as top priorities 2. improve viewing areas for both upper and lower courts 3. improve bathroom facilities for upper and lower court areas i. expand toilet facilities at lower courts ii. replace portable facilities at upper courts with some type of permanent bathroom facility iii. consider other alternatives, e.g., a single, more centralized facility to service all areas, understanding there may be constraints on septic, water, power, footprint 4. improve overall landscaping and general appearance 5. identify cost effective options to expand garden space 6. identify potential areas for family lawn games and other amenities, e.g., horseshoes, bocce, badminton, etc. 7. identify potential areas for platform tennis 8. assess cost and feasibility for lighted courts (tennis and platform tennis) There was some discussion of making the Draper Road facility into a racquet complex, housing both tennis and pickleball courts at one location where certain basic amenities could be shared, e.g., bathroom facilities, racquet pro’s office, parking, etc. Upon further review of the available footprint, including existing courts and facilities, it was determined that the existing property could not accommodate a six to eight-court pickleball complex without expanding the footprint of the common land. Although the Board has identified an interest in select properties adjacent to the Draper Road complex on Route 10, the RTF believes the prospect of acquiring said land in the next 10 years is low 13

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 and, given the recent investment in the new pickleball courts on Glenwood Road, the concept of an expanded racquet complex at Draper Road is not recommended.

For pickleball, the courts (formerly four pickleball courts and one “flex” tennis court) on Glenwood Road were rebuilt during the summer of 2022. The new courts feature six dedicated pickleball courts, which should be more than adequate for the foreseeable future. However, the recent project only dealt with the courts and not the entire complex, which needs more parking, improved traffic flow, bathrooms, additional courts if demand remains high, other amenities to make the facility multi-purpose, and more. Therefore, additional studies and associated investments should be identified over the next few years and outcomes worked into the budget process.

Recommendations 1. Maintain the current eight Har-Tru tennis courts at the Draper Road complex. Adjust RRR schedules as needed to maintain a high-quality court and playing experience. 2. Conduct an engineering study to better understand the costs and feasibility of the Draper Road RFP improvements noted above. Work with the CIC and Finance and Budget Committee to fold the improvements into a 10-year plan (see BudDoc #2). 3. Monitor community garden usage. If usage increases over the next three years, consider expanding at the current site or a satellite site based on stipulations noted below. In the interim: 1.) better understand the costs and feasibility of expanding the current site based on the proposed engineering study; 2. seek alternative sites within Eastman for additional community gardens, either temporary or permanent depending on needs and competing interests for the site location, and determine ECA’s level of participation for garden expansion, e.g., land only, land and infrastructure, or land, infrastructure, and utilities (see RefDoc #5 and BudDoc #1). 4. Conduct an engineering study of the Glenwood Road pickleball complex to improve traffic flow, increase parking, add more courts, create seating/viewing area, and construct a pavilion/bathroom/picnic area. Utilize proximity of common property for future additions (see RefDoc #4). Work with the CIC and Finance and Budget Committee to fold the improvements into a 10-year plan (see BudDoc #3). 5. Based on the outcomes of the engineering study, set aside area(s) at the Draper Road facility for platform tennis and lawn games (see BudDoc #2 and BudDoc #4, respectively).

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RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 Miscellaneous Racquets and Gardens survey question and idea not specifically researched or analyzed in DRAFT Report

FYE 2024 Budget Update An engineering study has been approved to better understand the costs and feasibility of the Draper Road Complex improvements.

Lakes and Trails Purpose Assess existing trails and lakes and associated recreational pursuits within the Eastman Community. Lakes and trails were combined under one subgroup since changes to one could very well impact the other. Existing trails (see RefDoc #10) consist of those maintained by ECA, primarily the X-C ski and snowshoe trails (see RefDoc #11), hiking trails maintained by volunteers from the W&W (see RefDoc #12), and the “walking” paths of the golf course, maintained by ECA and available for general public use with some limitations based on the season, time of day, and use (see RefDoc #13). The lake analysis was focused on Eastman Lake and associated ECA-sponsored activities and amenities, specifically, boating and beach access. Other ideas for both winter and summer activities on Eastman waterways did arise during the open forums and will be included in some of the analysis and survey questions.

Discovery Information was gathered from: 1. review of the 2015 Walk and Bike Initiative report (see RefDoc #14) 2. conversations with former ECA CMO Mike Gornnert, who provided an update on priority projects detailed in the 2015 Walk and Bike Initiative report (see RefDoc #15) 3. round table (Zoom) discussions with members of the Walk and Bike Initiative Steering Committee, specifically Karla Karash, Roy Norman, Craig McCart, and Judi Platt 4. memo from Duncan Wood, CPC member and civil engineer, regarding his assessment of high priority trails and possible enhancements (see RefDoc #16) 5. presentation from RTF member Bruce Altobelli on the current condition of Trail 8 (aka Deer Path) (see RefDoc #17) 6. a variety of trail experiences both within and outside Eastman encountered by Lakes and Trails subgroup members 7. experiences by Facilities and Operations subgroup members who walked many of the trails, common properties, and easements within Eastman 8. minutes and other reporting from W&W, most notably information regarding beaver dams along the route of Andy’s Alley and possible mountain bike trails on Eastman property

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RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 9. comments gleaned from the series of open forums conducted in late 2021, most notably comments and suggestions from members of the Lakes and Streams Committee, which was well represented at all the Open Forums (see RefDoc #8).

Findings For Trails, the RTF subgroup focused on trails and improvements that would typically fall under ECA province for construction, improvements, and ongoing maintenance. The subgroup started with the key findings and projects prioritized in the 2015 Walk and Bike Initiative report and added new trail ideas that emerged since the report was published. Common themes in both the prior work and the RTF work were multi-use, walkability, accessibility, and connectivity. More specifically, whether the trails are adequate for winter use as X-C ski trails, summer use for easy walking and off-road biking; are accessible for all generations and people with mobility issues; and create a network of connected and purposeful paths. This same theme was highlighted in an article in the Valley News touting accessible hikes (see RefDoc #18), which states “accessible trails are not only for people who may use walkers, wheelchairs, or canes. They’re also for folks who may be looking for an easier trail, are pushing a stroller or want to go somewhere the whole family can enjoy. Think about grandparents wanting to take grandchildren birdwatching or someone who is recovering from surgery wanting to ease back into being.” In assessing the 2015 Walk and Bike Initiative report, the subgroup was surprised to find that only a few of the trail initiatives were completed; a few remain on the list, but with no significant progress made; and many have been abandoned altogether. Overall, the RTF found that even members of the 2015 Walk and Bike Initiative Steering Committee were disappointed in the final recommendations and that more progress had not been made on those trail initiatives that did have some merit. However, the 2015 Walk and Bike Initiative report and its varied results thus far shaped the way the RTF approached its own recommendations, namely: concentrate on a few major projects with the greatest utility, focus on existing trails or replacements for abandoned trails, consult with all affected parties during the planning process to ensure acceptance, and where appropriate, seek external funding sources providing the trails are accessible to the public (on either a free or paid basis, e.g., X-C ski trails). Based on the criteria above, the RTF sub-group prioritized the following projects for ECA-maintained trails, eventually leading to a “Central Artery” described below.

Trail 5 (aka Brook Trail and Troll Trail) Trail 5 (see RefDoc #11) runs on both sides of Eastman Brook just south of the dam on Road Round the Lake (RRL). It is part of the groomed X-C ski trail system except for a small section of trail immediately above the dam (note: this section has recently been widened as part of the 2022 trail work, but still not wide enough for proper X-C ski grooming). The primary access to Trail 5 on the east side of the brook is probably the most significant project that came of the 2015 Walk and Bike Initiative report. A wide, more gradual pathway was created perpendicular to RRL, providing easy access to the trail for all types of activities, including X-C ski grooming. However, the quality of the trail quickly deteriorates after approximately 200 feet, and more improvements are needed. A request to improve the trail by regrading, widening where appropriate, and improving/creating more culverts for drainage has already been developed and approved, and some trail improvements were completed in 2022. The RTF strongly recommends further improvements be made during FYE 2024 or beyond. If not part of the ongoing 2022 trail work, Trail 5 improvements should include additional surface material (finely ground gravel or stone dust much like you find on the West Cove walking paths) compacted to provide for easy walking 16

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 or off-road biking. Trail 5, with its proximity to South Cove, the scenic Eastman Brook, and other connecting trails, including the golf course cart paths, could be the crown jewel of the ECA pathway system (see BudDoc #5).

Trail 6 (aka South Cove to West Cove Trail) Trail 6 (see RefDoc #11) runs from South Cove to West Cove A Beach. It is also known as a fire lane and is part of the groomed X-C ski trail system. The 2015 Walk and Bike Initiative report recommended some major improvements for Trail 6, the most significant of which would have changed the grade of the trail at its steepest point. Preliminary designs for a bypass trail around the steepest section of the trail were advanced but were abandoned when the Lakes and Streams Committee and other special interests objected, citing negative impacts to the lake. Although the concerns of the special interests had merit, the RTF believes a solution acceptable to all can and should be pursued. Independent of the grade issue, other improvements to Trail 6 were completed in 2021, most notably improved drainage. However, it should be noted that the improvements left a very rough and uneven walk and bike surface on much of the trail. Therefore, the RTF recommends the following two significant improvements (see BudDoc #6): 1. investigate solutions to reduce the grade of Trail 6 at its steepest point. All special interests should be represented in the planning process to ensure a final solution acceptable to all and to ensure the ecological integrity of Eastman Lake and abutters. 2. add surface material (finely ground gravel or stone dust much like you find on the West Cove walking paths) to provide for easy walking or off-road biking.

Andy’s Alley Alternative Andy’s Alley was a trail that connected Trail 5 to John’s Glen (see RefDoc #19). From its inception, it was permitted for winter use only, as it crossed over Eastman Brook and adjacent wetlands and was only passable when temperatures were consistently below freezing. Over the past few years, warmer temperatures limited its use, and when beaver dams flooded the area in 2020, the trail was permanently closed. Today, there is no trail access to John’s Glen except from Trail 8 (aka Deer Path) via Clearwater Drive, up a steep narrow path, and then across Brookridge Drive to Trail 9 or Craig’s Corridor (see RefDoc #11). Both are on the northeast section of the John’s Glen trail network. The RTF recommends a new, multi-purpose, year-round trail be constructed starting and ending at or near the starting points of the original Andy’s Alley. The trail would be suitable for walking, X-C skiing (groomed), snow shoeing, off-road biking, strollers, and possibly off-road wheelchairs. The proposed trail would also create unique opportunities for bird watching and environmental education. The surface conditions would be equivalent to the fire roads at West Cove and wide enough for X-C ski grooming equipment. 17

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 Members of the RTF and W&W walked the area on numerous occasions and have determined that: 1. two routes have merit, and 2. a “causeway” rather than a bridge or boardwalk would be the most utilitarian and cost-effective approach to crossing the wetlands regardless of route chosen. Both routes would require some level of wetlands permitting from the NHDES. One of the routes, which is more upland, would minimize the impact to the wetlands but require permission from some Eastman abutters. The other route, which runs through a longer stretch of wetlands, would likely require an engineering study with inputs from a wetland scientist and more involvement and oversight from NHDES. Although developing an alternative to Andy’s Alley would be a considerable undertaking, the RTF believes a project of this sort could be a candidate for external funding, thereby minimizing the financial impact to Eastman residents. Based on the above, the RTF recommends the following (see BudDoc #7): 1. determine ECA Community interest 2. continue preliminary discussions with NHDES and abutters regarding the merits and feasibility of each route 3. investigate external funding sources, e.g., grants, gifts, partnerships

John’s Glen, Trail 9, and Craig’s Corridor The John’s Glen trail system (see RefDoc #11), including Trail 9, which connects John’s Glen to Trail 8 and Craig’s Corridor, has been a mainstay of Eastman hiking and X-C skiing for years and was the 2022 home of the Eastman disc golf course. The trails, starting from the parking lot at the end of Clearwater Drive and continuing through and around the wastewater retention ponds and to the Yurt, are well defined with a somewhat even surface. Trails beyond the Yurt, which include John’s Glen up to Trail 9, Craig’s Corridor, and the Balsam Loops, are more uneven, rocky, and often wet. The RTF recommends an upgrade to the latter trail sections, including improvements to the grade, drainage, culverts, and surface material where appropriate. In addition, the RTF recommends that Craig’s Corridor be widened sufficiently for passage by the PistenBully or similar X-C ski grooming equipment. Although the surface material for these trails does not have to be equivalent to the walking and biking experience of the West Cove fire roads that is suggested for Trails 5, 6, and the alternative to Andy’s Alley (although that might be nice), the minimum expectation is for the trails to be easier to maintain and easier to navigate for all types of people and equipment (see BudDoc #8 and BudDoc #9).

The ”Central Artery” The “Central Artery” is the sum of the parts of the RTF’s recommendations for ECA maintained trails: A six-mile “carriage road” equivalent starting with the West Cove fire roads and extending to Trail 6, Trail 5, the alternative to Andy’s Alley, and continuing through the “improved” John’s Glen trail system. The Central Artery would intersect with multiple trails and ECA-approved parking areas along the way.

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RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023

Trail 8 (aka Deer Path Trail) Although not part of the “Central Artery,” Trail 8 (see RefDoc #11) would intersect with the Central Artery at multiple points, and link to, or could link to, other Eastman common properties such as the “Stump Dump” or the Glenwood Road pickleball complex. Currently, Trail 8 is too wet during most of the year, too narrow for the best X-C ski grooming equipment, and too steep and dangerous in spots for all but the heartiest and experienced hikers and Nordic skiers. Although the RTF doesn’t recommend that Trail 8 become a “carriage road,” the RTF does recommend significant improvements, much like those recommended for Trail 9 in the John’s Glen trail system; namely, improve drainage and build culverts around the persistently wet spots, widen the trail for easy passage of the PistenBully, and create switchbacks at the steepest sections of the trail, specifically the trail section between Brookridge Drive and Clearwater Drive (see RefDoc #17 and RefDoc #16, respectively, and BudDoc #10 and BudDoc #11, respectively).

Hiking trails under Woodlands & Wildlife stewardship Hiking trails in Heath Forest, to and around Anderson Pond, Eastman Lake, Butternut Pond, and Cole Pond, Trail 7 (aka Bright Slope Trail) on the X-C ski map, and various other connector trails, spurs, etc., are typically maintained by the volunteer efforts of W&W (see RefDoc #12). The RTF encourages W&W to maintain its current efforts as well as investigate select opportunities to add to or enhance the trail system through extensions and connections. The opportunities are numerous given Eastman’s common property, easements that crisscross many of the properties, and retired lots (see RefDoc #4 and RefDoc #10). The RTF believes one W&W maintained trail should receive special attention: the Lake Trail, specifically, north of the West Cove parking lot, traveling clockwise around the Lake to the South Cove beach). The Lake Trail should be the centerpiece of the community. It can be accessed from multiple locations and features incredible views of the lake and surrounding landscape. However, the Lake Trail is rarely used because of its rough, sometimes wet, and varied terrain. The RTF is not recommending improvements like those advocated for Trails 5 and 6. Rather, an effort should be made to improve the walkability of the trail: widen trails where appropriate, move or remove boulders, add subsurface material to smooth out the walking surface, build culverts or redirect the trail to avoid or minimize wet spots, and provide natural steps and handrails or switchbacks to minimize steep inclines. Since the enhancements are extensive and go beyond the typical volunteer efforts of W&W, the RTF believes W&W should work closely with the Lakes and Streams Committee and Eastman maintenance to leverage existing equipment and resources and to ensure the lake’s ecological integrity is maintained (see BudDoc #12). 19

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 The RTF also encourage W&W to work with the RC to create a purposeful network of walking and biking paths as outlined in the Executive Summary.

Additional parking at trailheads and beaches The RTF has identified two common areas under the grouping of Lakes and Trails that could benefit from improved parking conditions: Heath Forest and North Cove Beach. Heath Forest (see RefDoc #12) is one of the most popular trail systems within Eastman; however, driving to and parking at the main trailhead at the end of Bogie Place is difficult. The RTF recommends building a parking area at the corner of Greensward and Troon drives for up to four or five vehicles. The proposed area is controlled by Eastman as common property or retired lots (see RefDoc #4, lots GW1026, GW10-28 through GW10-31). The recommendation should be endorsed by the Greensward Special Place and validated by the results of the Survey (see BudDoc #13). Parking at North Cove Beach is limited, resulting in excessive parking on Cherry Lane and intersecting streets, and creating unnecessary traffic and safety issues for residents and beachgoers alike. The RTF recommends the following: limit the current parking area to handicap parking and a drop-off zone only, prohibit street parking altogether, and build a parking area at the corner of Cherry Lane and Loon Drive (see RefDoc #4, lot NC3-102) for approximately 15 to 20 cars. The proposed area is controlled by Eastman as common property, isolated from abutters, and a reasonable walk to the beach (no more than 200 yards). The recommendation should be endorsed by the North Cove Special Place and validated by the results of the Survey (see BudDoc #14). Survey Question Results for North Cove Parking by North Cove Special Place Respondents

Survey Question Results for Parking Adequacy for Recreational Amenities by all Respondents

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RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023

Mountain Bike Trails The RTF has heard from special interests advocating for mountain bike trails within Eastman. Many of the ECA-maintained trails allow mountain bikes, but many of the W&W-maintained trails prohibit or discourage them, citing safety concerns for hikers as well as damage to trails not designed specifically for mountain biking. Current efforts from the special interests have focused on the Vernal Pool Trail and old logging road network off Brookridge Drive as well as some of the W&W-maintained trails within John’s Glen. Although the efforts of the special interests have some merit, the RTF would like to see the results of the Survey before making a recommendation. If the outcome is positive for the mountain bike advocates, the RTF would, at a minimum, ask the special interests to work closely with ECA management, W&W, and other groups which might be affected, and present a well-thought-out trail network that can be built and maintained by volunteers before forging ahead (see BudDoc #15).

Road Round the Lake pedestrian pathways Other than Greensward Drive and adjacent roads, RRL is the hub of the road network within Eastman. Many of Eastman’s residential streets and trails feed into RRL, resulting in high levels of vehicle and pedestrian traffic. However, RRL is not your typical country or residential road; rather, it’s more like a roller coaster with tight turns, steep inclines, and twisty declines. Combined with narrow travel lanes, blind spots, and little-to-no shoulder, the road is tricky for vehicles traveling at the posted speed limit and downright dangerous for pedestrians either walking or biking along the sides, especially when vehicles exceed the posted speed limit, which seems to be a common occurrence. Therefore, the RTF strongly recommends an effort to build some type of pedestrian and bicycle pathway along RRL, which will be a critical component of the proposed plan to create a purposeful network of paths to reach Eastman’s major amenities. It could be a bikeway or a walkway or one dedicated to both. It could be on both sides of the road or just one side, with periodic crosswalks if terrain, easements, and drainage make it difficult to have pathways on both sides of the road in any given area. It could be paved, or hard-packed gravel, or a mix of the two depending on usage and other constraints. Regardless of the final configuration, the point is that some type of dedicated pedestrian pathway along RRL would create a safer environment for the many people who take advantage of RRL for recreational pursuits. The effort, measured by dollars and commitment, would undoubtedly be significant, but pedestrian and biking pathways are amenities that could be subsidized by state or federal grants (see RefDoc #20, and BudDoc #16).

Related survey question and idea not specifically researched or analyzed in DRAFT Report

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RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023

Other defined walk loops Much like the cart paths that traverse the golf course and are available to walkers during certain hours of the day and seasons, the many miles of gravel roads within Eastman present a unique opportunity for defined walking loops. The gravel roads are, for the most part, well maintained, lightly travelled, and wide, with modest grades, proper drainage, and firm footing. The gravel roads in Eastman can be likened to the carriage roads found in some national parks. The challenge is to identify loops of varying distances and degrees of difficulty, and then provide signage, maps, and off-road parking. Longer term, loops could be expanded or linked by building connecting trails along easements or through retired lots so they become an integral part of the proposed trail system connecting all Eastman amenities. The investment would be small and the potential impact great. Depending on the interest expressed in the Survey, the RTF recommends a committee be formed, either ad hoc or as part of the RC, to identify routes and off-road parking locations, and develop the concept further.

Docks, Racks, Launch Sites, Boat Wash Stations, and Motorized Boats Aside from trail improvements that might impact the integrity of the Eastman Lake, the RTF focused on recreational activities that take place on the lake or the beaches. During the RTF community outreach, there was consensus that the boat rental program and beaches were well maintained and met the needs of the community. However, the docks, boat racks, an additional boat wash area at the north entrance, and the use of motorized boats on the lake were more controversial. Docks. This topic deals solely with the availability of dock space reserved for private boats at the Eastman beaches (not to be confused with the Eastman docks used for the boat rental program at South Cove). The issue is the number of docks relative to the demand for dock space. With a waitlist of over 20, there are strong feelings from some members of the community that Eastman should create more dock space to accommodate more boats. An opposing view feels there are too many boat docks, which leads to congestion as well as safety, environmental, and aesthetic concerns. The RTF awaits the Survey results before issuing a recommendation; however, a budget placeholder for additional docks has been submitted for consideration (see BudDoc #17).

Boat racks. Racks for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) have been top-of-mind over the last few years. There is a high demand for boat racks, particularly next to certain beaches. Over the last two years, Eastman has purchased additional racks twice, with an eye toward increasing the number of racks further in FYE 2024 and beyond. The benefit is twofold: 1. some of the older racks are falling apart and need to be replaced, and 2. the capacity of the new racks is greater than the old racks, minimizing the footprint required to meet the demand. The RTF supports additional boat racks to meet the demand providing the additional boat racks are part of a thoughtful plan that includes easy access for boaters and maintains the beach and shoreline aesthetics (see BudDoc #18). 22

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023

Boat wash station at the north entrance. Eastman has a boat wash station accessible from the main entrance, but no boat wash station at the Draper Road “north” entrance. The RTF believes a second boat wash station should be added at this high-trafficked entrance to ensure all incoming boaters comply with the Eastman washdown request. There has been some opposition in the past since the north entrance is near the watershed area, but a well-engineered site with proper drainage should mitigate this concern. The RTF suggests the proposed engineering study for the Draper Road complex include site location and plans for a boat wash station (see BudDoc #19).

Motorized boats. There is a state-imposed speed limit of 10 miles/hour for motorized boats on Eastman Lake because of certain “hazards” in the water. Currently there are no further boating restrictions, and since the lake is owned by the state of New Hampshire, ECA has no jurisdiction to make changes, if in fact there is a desire to do so, other than by petitioning the NH State legislature. However, concerns have been voiced over the number of boats, the types of motors used (electric vs. internal combustion), and the size and horsepower of the motors (see RefDoc #8). A section of the Survey addresses motorized boats, and the RTF reserves judgement until the Survey results are tabulated.

Recommendations: 1. Commit to a capital plan that allocates funds for trail improvements, specifically existing ECAmaintained trails. 2. Concentrate on improvements to Trails 5, 6, an alternate to Andy’s Alley, John’s Glen, and Trail 9, resulting in a carriage road equivalent “Central Artery.” Seek outside funding sources. 3. If cost effective, develop in-house capabilities (equipment and manpower) to build, enhance, and maintain trails making up the trail system connecting all Eastman amenities. 23

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 4. Replace and add boat racks as appropriate to meet demand while maintaining beach and shoreline aesthetics. 5. Await Survey results and community support for other projects and topics described in this section. Create action plan if community support is high for any project. 6. Research external funding opportunities for pedestrian pathways on RRL. Develop a long-term plan if community support is high and a path to external financing is realistic. Miscellaneous Lakes and Trails survey questions and ideas not specifically researched or analyzed in DRAFT Report

New and Other Purpose Assess the need and/or desire for new, enhanced, or expanded amenities within the Eastman Community which are not addressed under the Racquets and Gardens or Trails and Lakes sections. New and Other relied on recreational trends, brainstorming within the RTF, conversations with special interest groups, and a review of current amenities.

Discovery Information was gathered from: 1. brainstorming by subgroup members of New and Other representing a variety of recreational interests and demographics 2. comments gleaned from the series of open forums conducted in late 2021 (see RefDoc #8) 24

RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 3. ideas generated during informal meetings with the Eastman Young Family Group and advocates for an Eastman dog park 4. multiple site visits by RTF members to current recreational amenities, other ECA common properties, including retired lots, and adjacent, non-ECA properties 5. the 2016 Draper Road Study (see RefDoc #7) 6. a proposal for lawn games submitted by ECA residents John Larrabee and Gary Douville (see RefDoc #9) 7. research on recreational trends, facility costs, and amenities provided by “like” communities 8. research on construction costs and funding options for amenities such as a dog park, large playground, bouldering wall, etc.

Findings The RTF collected and reviewed all the ideas generated during the discovery phase and submitted a proposal for those new or enhanced amenities which, in the eyes of the RTF, had the most merit. It should be noted that some of the ideas that did not make the list are nonetheless included in the Survey. Again, the RTF used the same CIC form that was available to the Eastman Community at-large. All the proposed ideas are listed below in no preferred order. •

Extend current basketball apron to a full basketball court measuring 60 x 90 feet with two baskets. For greater utility, line the court for shuffleboard and Four Square (see BudDoc #20).

•

Add a bouldering wall outside of the South Cove fitness center. Wall would be 8 feet high by 15 feet wide and suitable for young children through adults (see BudDoc #21).

•

Create a larger playground area for Eastman youth. Location TBD (see BudDoc #22).

•

Build a small dog park for residents to take their dogs for unleashed exercise and companionship (see BudDoc #23)

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RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 •

Build a skateboard park at South Cove (see BudDoc #24).

•

Build a large multi-sport building, preferably near an Eastman entrance (see BudDoc #25).

•

Create a snow tubing park, possibly on lower Snow Hill (see BudDoc #26).

Survey questions and ideas related to play fields • • • • •

Dedicate an area for family lawn games such as croquet, horseshoes, and lawn bocce at the Draper Road complex or South Cove (see BudDoc #4). Build a bocce court at the Draper Road complex or South Cove (see BudDoc #27). Dedicate space and resources for a badminton/volleyball court at South Cove. Level and mark field, add a net. Ensure court can be used for either discipline (see BudDoc #28). Level and mark existing ballfield at South Cove for soccer and lacrosse. Ensure ballfield can be used for either discipline (see BudDoc #29). Build a jogging track around the outside of the fenced area at South Cove ballfield (see BudDoc #30).

*See RefDoc #21 for a concept design layout of the South Cove ballfield to optimize multiple recreational pursuits.

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RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023

Survey questions not mentioned in DRAFT Report

South Cove Activity Center survey questions and ideas not specifically researched or analyzed in DRAFT Report

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RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023

Recommendation: Administer Survey to determine community support for: 1. each of the new or enhanced amenity ideas proposed, 2. ideas included in the Survey but not proposed, and 3. any new ideas put forward by Survey participants. From there, the RTF (or successor body), the CIC, the Finance and Budget Committee, the Board, and in some cases, the Council, should prioritize the ideas, review them on an annual basis, and conduct further due diligence, if necessary, to make informed decisions to deploy ECA assets for new and enhanced recreational amenities receiving the highest levels of support.

Findings, Conclusions, and Action Steps Based on Survey Results Summary of Survey Findings • • • • • • • • •

Household response rate was good at 48.5%; somewhat less than the full community surveys of 2021 and 2016, which were 62.4% and 55%, respectively. Demographics of survey participants were essentially unchanged from the 2021 survey. A vast majority of respondents consider Eastman their primary residence and spend most of their time in Eastman. Eastman has many amenities that appeal to a broad range of residents. Respondents are generally satisfied with the amenities they use and how they are maintained. As in past surveys, except for a few exceptions like the lake, beaches, and trails, which have a high usage, most amenities are not used by all residents. Survey results suggest new and enhanced amenities are supported by the Eastman community. Respondents tended to support ideas that would have a small-to-modest impact on assessments. The support-level designation assigned by RTF is sensitive to the sway of neutral responses (see back-up slides in SurveyDoc #1 for sensitivity analysis); further analysis by the Eastman Survey Committee or RTF successors (see Appendix IV) is recommended for those amenities with a significant block of neutral answers.

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Notable Takeaways from Survey Responses • • • • •

•

Community garden expansion, despite one of the highest responses of “don’t use,” was strongly supported. North Cove parking had one of the highest rates of dissatisfaction, relatively speaking, and garnered the most comments. Strong support for limiting speed and gas emissions of power boats on the lake. Locker rooms at South Cove, from responses and comments, indicate improvements may be in order. New amenities, such as snow tubing, long-track skating, larger playground, dog park, and lawn games, appear to have community support, suggesting the need for follow through by ad-hoc committees. Despite being one of the most used amenities, support for higher-capital-cost trail improvements was limited; however, strong support did exist for smaller trail projects, such as benches and nature stations.

Recommendations and Action Steps • •

•

Archive survey data and make it available to the ECA Survey Committee for further analysis Designate successors for follow through of survey findings (see Appendix IV) o ECA departments and/or standing committees where appropriate (e.g., Lakes and Streams, Woodlands and Wildlife, Maintenance Department) o Create ad-hoc “community-driven” committees for amenity ideas that need to be championed beyond the support provided by current ECA departments and committees o Assign a Recreation Committee member to serve as a liaison to each successor o Conduct annual reviews with active successor groups Work with CIC to prioritize ten-year capital plan based on survey results and subsequent work, which may be submitted by designated successors. Participate in annual review.

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Appendix I: Table of Reference Documents Document # (RefDoc) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Description

Link

ECA Strategic Plan 2030 RTF Charge RTF Survey PDF Map of Possible Recreational Amenities Spreadsheet Showing Water, Sewer, Utilities, etc. per recreation site Common Properties Committee (CPC) Findings 2016 Draper Road Engineering Report DRAFT Comments Received from Open Forums Lawn Games Proposal – John Larrabee & Gary Duval Map of Eastman Trail System Cross Country Ski Map Eastman Woodlands & Wildlife Walking Map Golf Course Walking Map 2015 Bike & Walkway Report Michael Gornnert’s Update of 2015 Report Trails Memo - Duncan Woods Trail 8 (Deer Path) Conditions – Bruce Altobelli Valley News Article Andy’s Alley Trail Map Road Round Lake Pedestrian Pathways Possible Funding Sources Concept Layout of South Cove Field Area

RefDoc #1 RefDoc #2 RefDoc #3 RefDoc #4 RefDoc #5 RefDoc #6 RefDoc #7 RefDoc #8 RefDoc #9 RefDoc #10 RefDoc #11 RefDoc #12 RefDoc #13 RefDoc #14 RefDoc #15 RefDoc #16 RefDoc #17 RefDoc #18 RefDoc #19 RefDoc #20 RefDoc #21

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Appendix II: Table of Budget Documents Document # (BudDoc) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Description

Link

Community Garden Engineering Study for Draper Road Engineering Study for Glenwood Road Pickleball Court Facilities Lawn Games Trail 5 (Brook Trail) Improvements Trail 6 (Lake Trail) Improvements Andy’s Alley Trail 9 (John’s Glen) Improvements Trail 11 (Craig’s Corridor) Improvements Improve Drainage on Trail 8 Switchbacks for Steep Sections of Trail 8 Trail 6 (Lake Trail) Eastern and North Sections Improvements Additional Parking for Heath Forest North Cove Beach Parking Mountain Bike Trails Road Round Lake Pedestrian & Bicycle Paths Boat Docks Boat Racks Boat Wash at North Entrance South Cove Basketball Court Extension Bouldering Wall Larger Playground Dog Park Skate Park Large Multi-Sport Building Snow Tubing Park Bocce Court Dedicated Area and Resources for Badminton/Volleyball Soccer/Lacrosse Field Jogging Trail at South Cove

BudDoc #1 BudDoc #2 BudDoc #3 BudDoc #4 BudDoc #5 BudDoc #6 BudDoc #7 BudDoc #8 BudDoc #9 BudDoc #10 BudDoc #11 BudDoc #12 BudDoc #13 BudDoc #14 BudDoc #15 BudDoc #16 BudDoc #17 BudDoc #18 BudDoc #19 BudDoc #20 BudDoc #21 BudDoc #22 BudDoc #23 BudDoc #24 BudDoc #25 BudDoc #26 BudDoc #27 BudDoc #28 BudDoc #29 BudDoc #30

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Appendix III: Table of Survey Documents Document # (SurveyDoc) 1 2 3

Description

Link

PPT Presentation with Complete Survey Results PPT Presentation: Executive Summary of Survey Results 2022 RTF Survey - Compendium of Open-Ended Comments

SurveyDoc #1 SurveyDoc #2 SurveyDoc #3

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Appendix IV: Table of Recommended Successor Organizations ECA Departments:

Main = Maintenance; Rec = Recreation; Fin = Finance

ECA Committees:

W&W = Woodlands and Wildlife; L&S = Lakes and Streams; Rec = Recreation Racquet = Recreation Subcommittee; Garden = Community Garden Committee

Amenity/Topic

ECA Department

ECA Standing Committee

Improvements to South Cove Activity Center

Main, Rec, Fin

Draper Road Complex (gardens and tennis) Glenwood Road Complex (pickleball) RRL and other road pedestrian paths

Main, Rec

Racquet; Garden

Main, Rec

Racquet

Trails #5, 6, 8, 9

Main, Rec

Andy’s Alley Alt

Main, Rec

Main, Fin

Lake Trail and other trails

X

X W&W; Rec

Docks, boat racks/beach area Rec parking

Main, Rec

Other “trail” and woodland amenities like benches, cross-fit station, camping, kayak launch

Main, Rec, Fin

Adhoc X

Main

X

X

W&W, Rec, L&S

X

Comment ECA departments are best prepared to evaluate recommendations for SC improvements. Creating a special resident-driven comm to work with the ECA staff should be considered Racquet and Garden should work with Main and Rec on funded study and recommendations Pursue engineering study to enhance facility and parking Resident-driven initiative to investigate possibilities and funding sources; work with Main and Fin teams Main and Rec to scope, plan, and execute work to improve ECA maintained trails Resident-driven initiative to investigate funding sources and work with NH DES on feasibility Resident-driven initiative to improve Lake Trail and develop walking loops and off-road parking on existing trails and gravel roads Follow current initiatives of ECA departments Resident-driven initiative for further feasibility for sites at North Cove Beach and Heath Forest; include abutting special places Form ad-hoc comm comprised of ECA departments and ECA standing committees to scope out feasibility and timeline if appropriate

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RTF Final Report Amended with Survey Results, March 2023 Successor Table Continued Amenity/Topic

ECA Department

Mountain bike trails

Main, Rec

ECA Standing Committee Rec; W&W

Adhoc X

Dog Park

X

Multi-sport complex Larger playground

X

Skateboard Park

X

Lawn games, field Main, Rec games, bouldering wall, basketball court, jogging track

X

Rec

Comment Resident-driven initiative with representation from groups at left to develop mountain bike rules, policy, and contract, and to maintain trails if appropriate Resident-driven initiative for further feasibility Resident-driven initiative for further feasibility Resident-driven initiative for further feasibility Resident-driven initiative for further feasibility ECA departments work with Rec to scope out feasibility and timeline if appropriate

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