Spicket River Greenway Design Guidelines

SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY DESIGN GUIDELINES June 30,2006
Lawrence, Massachusetts
Prepared for: Executive Office of Environmental Affairs
In conjunction with: Groundwork Lawrence

Arlington Community Trabajando
Copley Wolff Design Group

Landscape Architects & Planners
160 Boylston Street • Boston, MA

June 30, 2006
Kwabena Kyei-Aboagye
Executive Office of Environmental Affairs
100 Cambridge Street, 9th Floor
Boston, MA 02114
RE: Spicket River Greenway Design Guidelines, ENV 06 POL 24 Urban Open Space Design
Dear Kwabena:
Copley Wolff Design Group (CWDG) is pleased to present recommendations for design guidelines of the Spicket River Greenway in Lawrence,
MA. This report represents a culmination of our efforts to understand the conditions along this diverse waterway, to reach out to the neighboring
communities, and to develop a plan to guide the future improvements along the river.
The Urban Open Space Study included a series of site walks and field visits to record the conditions along the banks of the Spicket. These visits allowed
CWDG to come to a detailed understanding of the opportunities and constraints along the river’s edge. This understanding was supplemented by
an earlier study of the Spicket River, which was utilized on CWDG’s design of Brook Street Park. This early study is included as an appendix to this
report.
This study also included a living and productive community outreach effort. A total of three (3) well-attended community meetings were held at the
Arlington Elementary School where abutters, residents and other stakeholders offered their observations and input to the developing project. This
input proved most valuable to the successful completion of this report.
This community outreach effort was greatly assisted by both Lesly Melendez and Kate Gormly of Groundwork Lawrence and Ana Luna of Arlington
Community Trabajando. Without their tireless efforts, the community presentations and collected feedback would not have been possible.
It is also worth noting that during the course of this study, the New England region received rainfalls of historic proportions, which led to extensive
flooding along the banks of the Spicket. The flood event caused extensive damage to the City of Lawrence and the Arlington neighborhood in
particular. The Flood of 2006 illustrated the power of nature and the need to understand the Spicket River as a place to enjoy and also to respect.
Sincerely,
David M. Walsh, AIA, ASLA

Principal
Section 1 - GOALS
1.1 Study Goals
Section 2 - INTRODUCTION
2.1 Site Context
2.2 Abstract, Facts of the Spicket River
2.3 Map of Existing Green Space in Lawrence
2.4 Map of Flood Zones in Lawrence
Section 3 - EXISTING CONDITIONS

3.1 Malden Mills, Map & Site Photographs
3.2 FEMA Site and Marion Avenue, Map & Site Photographs
3.3 Hayden Schofield Playfield, Map & Site Photographs
3.4 Immigrant Park and Erving Avenue, Map & Site Photographs
3.5 Brook Street Park, Map & Site Photographs
3.6 Lawrence General Hospital and Outfall to Merrimack River, Map & Site Photographs
Section 4 - OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS

4.1 Educational Opportunities and Constraints
4.2 Recreational Opportunities and Constraints
4.3 Social Opportunities and Constraints
4.4 Environmental Opportunities and Constraints
Section 5 - APPLICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Recommended Improvements
5.2 Hayden Schofield Playfield Improvements
5.3 River Recreation
5.4 Amphitheater
5.5 Interpretive Improvements
5.6 River Overlook
5.7 Retaining Wall Overlook/Lower Trail Combination
5.8 Seasonal Trails
5.9 Upper Trail Overlook and Connection
Section 6 - SUMMARY 6.1 - 6.3 Project Summary
Section 7 - COST ESTIMATE 7.1 Cost Estimate
Section 8 - APPENDIX A Spicket River Guidelines - Case Studies

B Spicket River Guidelines - Corridor Sections
C Spicket River Guidelines - Existing Conditions
COPLEY WOLFF DESIGN GROUP

SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY TABLE OF CONTENTS Landscape Architects & Planners
Lawrence, MA 160 Boylston Street, Boston, MA
SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY GOALS Landscape Architects & Planners
STUDY GOALS
SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY DESIGN GUIDELINES
1. Document existing conditions on the river and along both edges.
2. Identify existing access points and river crossings.
3. Catalog observable wildlife and habitats.
4. Identify potential enhancement locations.
5. Document instances and locations of dumping and hazardous conditions.
6. Present to community and incorporate input.
7. Develop guidelines for improvements to existing conditions.
8. Secure support of City of Lawrence officials and EOEA.
9. Develop estimate of probable construction costs.
10. Deliver final report to EOEA.

Landscape Architects & Planners 1.1 GOALS SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY
160 Boylston Street, Boston, MA Lawrence, MA
SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY INTRODUCTION Landscape Architects & Planners
SITE CONTEXT
Lawrence
Spicket River in Lawrence
Spicket River
Merrimack Riv
er

Landscape Architects & Planners 2.1 INTRODUCTION SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY
ABSTRACTS, FACTS OF THE SPICKET RIVER
From its source at Big Island Pond in Derry, NH, through Methuen, MA, the Spicket River
runs 2.5 miles through Lawrence, MA, before emptying into the Merrimack River. The Spicket
has a total drainage area of 77.7 square miles and an average gradient of 2 feet per mile, making it
a rather slow moving river susceptible to annual spring flooding. In the northern neighborhoods
of Lawrence, the city with the highest population density in the state and the least amount of
open space, the Spicket River is considered the “sole natural feature.”
Over the past two centuries, industrialization has led to mill dams, channels and retaining
walls to be built at several sites along the Spicket. These structures have reduced the width and
area of the river’s natural flood plain. This reduction has resulted in more severe flooding in
residential neighborhoods such as the Arlington neighborhood of Lawrence.
While this flooding causes roads and houses to be threatened nearly every spring, the
surrounding community remains unaware of the river running through their backyards during
the rest of the year. For the most part, the Spicket is physically and visually inaccessible and has
become a neighborhood dumping ground as a result. With the efforts of community groups
and dedicated non-profits, we hope the creation of a riverfront greenway and park system will
improve community awareness, accessibility, ecological recovery and recreational opportunities
for the Spicket River.

SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY 2.2 INTRODUCTION Landscape Architects & Planners
EXISTING GREEN SPACE IN LAWRENCE
Howard
Playground
Hayden
Schofield
Playfield
Immaculate Brook
Conception Street
Cemetery Park
FEMA Site
O’Neil
COVANTA SITE Park
CURRENTLY BEING Rowell Putman
STUDIED Park Park
St. Mary’s North
Cemetery Common
Bellvue
Cemetery

Landscape Architects & Planners 2.3 INTRODUCTION SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY
SPICKET FLOOD ZONE MAP
BER
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500 YEAR FLOOD GENERAL
LEGEND
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100 YEAR FLOOD

.
AL ST
CAN
MERRIMACK
RIVER
500 YEAR FLOOD
OPEN SPACE
Flood of 2006

SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY 2.4 INTRODUCTION Landscape Architects & Planners
Landscape Architects & Planners SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY
SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY EXISTING CONDITIONS Landscape Architects & Planners
MALDEN MILLS
• The mill is the western beginning point of the river greenway in Lawrence.
• The mill dam serves as a landmark and the dramatic waterfall as a focal point.
• Remnants of the old mill provide an opportunity to educate the public about the industrial
Malden Mills Section history of Lawrence, which was integral to its founding and growth as a city.
• The riverfront property east of Broadway is a vacant lot under private ownership and currently
inaccessible. A possible easement could be acquired for the river greenway before development
begins on the site.
malden mills dam
s p illway at m ald en m ills

Landscape Architects & Planners 3.1 EXISTING CONDITIONS SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY
FEMA SITE AND MARION AVENUE
• The FEMA owned site, adjacent to Central Catholic High School parking lot, is to be constructed
into a park with play equipment, a picnic pavilion and river greenway along Marion Avenue.
• The banks of the Spicket along the Lawrence Department of Public Works (DPW) site lack
vegetation and are eroding. There is currently no river access at this site, but could be a potential
location for a small pedestrian bridge to cross the river and continue the river greenway along
FEMA Site Section Erving Avenue.
• The northern river banks become higher and steeper than the southern bank along Marion
Avenue, which is lower and highly susceptible to seasonal flooding. Hampshire Street is often
blocked off during spring floods.
• Short concrete retaining walls are in disrepair. There are muddy deposits along the bank and
several buildings come up right to the river’s edge.
• The most visually accessible locations are the river and the most sparsely vegetated areas, which
have the least amount of collected refuse and illegal dumping.
ed
dge
ge at
at FEMA si te
te
• A two foot high guardrail along Erving Avenue separates the street from the densely vegetated
and very steep riverbank, contributing to extremely limited visual and physical access to the
river.
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site
te
l ow f en c e p ot een
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FEMA SITE
CENTRAL CATHOLIC
HIGH SCHOOL
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SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY 3.2 EXISTING CONDITIONS Landscape Architects & Planners
HAYDEN SCHOFIELD PLAYFIELD
• Hayden Field, a community park with ball fields and swings, is only a few feet in elevation above
the Spicket’s average high water level resulting in seasonal flooding.
• There is an existing path along the Spicket River at Hayden Field, providing community access
to the river; however, this path is under water during floods.
Hayden Schofield Section
• The Lawrence Street bridge features community artwork tiles. The river greenway could provide
opportunities to display more of the work of local school children and artisans.
• The Lawrence Street bridge provides an easily accessible and scenic river overlook.
• A dirt pedestrian path lined with an eight foot high chain-link fence runs along the southern
bank of the river on Marion Avenue. Many drivers and pedestrians are unaware of the river’s
presence due to the thick layer of vegetation separating one from the river. This fence lined path
along the river’s bank is reminiscent of an abandoned lot or retention basin and has become a
popular area for illegal dumping over the past years.
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IMMIGRANT PARK
• The Immigrant Place Park, located on the south bank, features benches, specimen trees and a
lawn that gradually slopes towards the river.
• There is a narrow path that runs parallel to the river that could potentially connect with the river
greenway. The path may not be accessible during flooding periods due to its low elevation.
Immigrant Park Section • There is a clearing of vegetation at a low lying point along the path close to the river bank that
could serve as a river access point for viewing, boating and fishing.
• The present design of the park makes it an undesirable and underutilized space; however, with
modest design improvements, it could potentially host river greenway events and various
recreational activities.
• Along the northern bank and Erving Avenue, there is extensive invasive plant growth, a six foot
fence and a dirt path along the shoulder of the road, which prohibit views to the river.
• The bridge at Lawrence Street offers scenic views of the river and could become a fishing
spot.
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BROOK STREET PARK
• Brook Street Park construction was completed in June 2006.
• A river access point behind the playground and basketball court have potential to become a
canoe and kayak landing as well as a fishing site.
• Brook Street Park is not prone to flooding because it is located on high ground with a newly
Brook Street Park Section rebuilt retaining wall that separates the park from the river’s edge.
• Recreational features of the park include a patio, picnics areas, a shade pavilion, a fountain and
play fields. The park will also feature a series of paths designed to connect to the future river
greenway.
• At this site, the river curves southward creating a bend that becomes a collection site for garbage
and large debris.
• There are small rapids in the river at the southern end of park.
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located in areas of high vertical separation
LAWRENCE GENERAL HOSPITAL AND OUTFALL AT MERRIMACK RIVER
• This area is the end of the Spicket River, where it confluences with the Merrimack River, and
is currently inaccessible. This area could be a fascinating endpoint to the river greenway with
potential river and watershed geology educational opportunities.
• There is a dirt path from General Street to a small wooden walkway over a dam where the canal
meets the Spicket, creating a dramatic overlook. A path to this walkway could be incorporated
into the river greenway.
Lawrence General Hospital and
Outfall at Merrimack River • The wooden walkway over the dam features a plaque showing the record high water mark.
• There is a small park off of Allen Street that has a field, benches and handball courts. There is
high fencing and thick vegetation which obscure views to the river.
• There are steep grade changes between the land around Lawrence General Hospital and Lawrence
Family Health Center’s parking lot and the river, which features high retaining walls. A lower
pathway at river level could offer seasonal access.
• The health centers’ parking lots allow pavement runoff to flow directly into the river; this causes
contamination of not only the Spicket, but the Merrimack River as well.
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ook poten
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al
SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS Landscape Architects & Planners
EDUCATION
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
• The river greenway and trail could be adjacent to several schools to provide an “outdoor
classroom,” allowing students to learn about the natural systems of the river and become
leaders in community environmental education.
• A system of bilingual signs could be placed along the river greenway informing users about
the river: its watershed, geology, history, plants and animal inhabitants.
• Develop a series of community events and school programs that celebrate the natural
systems of the Spicket River.
• Some paths and resting spots along the river greenway could be located in areas that are
only accessible when the river is low and inaccessible when the river is high, providing
education and awareness of the Spicket’s seasonal flooding patterns.
• Promoting ecological awareness and education about the river can foster stewardship in
the community, ending years of neglect, illegal dumping and polluting.
EDUCATIONAL CONSTRAINTS
• Existing conditions limit physical accessibility of the river.
• The visual accessibility of the river is limited due to overgrown vegetative materials, which
significantly reduces the river’s presence.
• Because many people are unaware of the river’s proximity to local schools, it has been
disregarded as an educational asset.

Landscape Architects & Planners 4.1 OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY
RECREATION
RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
• A river greenway could provide a variety of active recreation opportunities for the
residents of North Lawrence such as biking, running, walking, fishing, canoeing and
kayaking.
• These active recreational activities could improve the health and quality of life for the
community, helping to combat problems of obesity, diabetes and asthma.
• Benches, parks and pavilions provide opportunities for passive recreation such as picnics,
lunch breaks and observing nature.
• Organized recreational events such as walkathons, bike races, fund raisers, boat outings,
etc., could promote use of the river and foster a greater sense of community with
residents.
• The river greenway could connect the various parks adjacent to the river, providing a
variety of sport and play activities.
• Green corridors connecting other parks in Lawrence could create further recreational
opportunities.
RECREATIONAL CONSTRAINTS
• There is limited physical and visual access to the river.
• The river has become a popular place for dumping which may affect users’ interest in
actively using the river.
• There is a limited amount of locations for users to passively enjoy the river.
• The river lacks a connected pedestrian path, which may deter users from enjoying a local
natural asset.

SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY 4. 2 OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS Landscape Architects & Planners
SOCIAL
SOCIAL OPPORTUNITIES
• Creating a recognizable logo and signage system for the river greenway would give the
river more of a presence and identity within the neighborhood.
• Informative signage would enhance the community’s understanding and stewardship of

the Spicket River.
• Designing connections to other parks and cultural centers in Lawrence will create a
safer environment for children and pedestrians, and it will facilitate larger events and
festivals.
• A series of cultural events and performances at the parks along the river would create a
greater sense of neighborhood involvement and community pride.
• Creating a place that more people would utilize will result in more “eyes on the
neighborhood,” which will decrease crime.
SOCIAL CONSTRAINTS
• There may be a fear of crime in the neighborhoods adjacent to the river due to
underutilization of the existing open space.
• The existing condition of the river’s banks is overgrown and may contribute to negative
perceptions of care in the community.

Landscape Architects & Planners 4. 3 OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY
ENVIRONMENT
ENVIRONMENTAL OPPORTUNITIES
• Creating better physical access to the river would better facilitate the existing annual
river cleanup events, such that they could be more efficient and occur more often.
• More extensive and frequent trash cleanups would reduce the fill in the flood way,
therefore reducing seasonal flood levels and improve habitat and water quality.
• Reducing contaminants and pollutants in the Spicket River would be a positive step toward
improving the overall drinking water quality for cities such as Lawrence, whose source
is the Merrimack River, which the Spicket empties into.
• A healthier ecological habitat would provide refuge for many endangered and threatened
species such as the blue heron, Atlantic salmon and sturgeon.
• Acquiring easements along the river and purchasing properties through eminent domain
would reduce the devastating effect of flooding on residents and land owners.
• With improved river access, another community program could be established to remove
exotic/invasive growth, such as oriental bittersweet, which would improve the natural
habitat and encourage the growth of native plants and animals.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS
• The river has become a popular place for dumping which will take great effort to make
improvements.
• There are a limited amount of locations for users to physically access the water.

SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY 4. 4 OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS Landscape Architects & Planners
SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY APPLICATIONS Landscape Architects & Planners
RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
T.
KENDRICK ST.
ST
BENNINGTON
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W
ALBION ST.
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WILMOT ST.
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.
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IMMIGRANT PARK TO HAYDEN

OAK ST.
SCHOFIELD PLAYFIELD
The Spicket River presents many opportunities for improvements along the stretch from Immigrant Park to Hayden Schofield Playfield.
The proposed trail would continue along both banks of the Spicket between the Jackson Street bridge and the Lawrence Street bridge. Immigrant
Park, which is located along the south bank, will benefit from improved access to the river, allowing users to connect with the water.
Along the Spicket’s south bank, between these two bridges, there is open space adjacent to residential units that would be an ideal opportunity for
a park.
The Lawrence Street bridge will provide a connection to the north bank, where the trail, lined with a chain link fence, would connect to Hayden
Schofield Playfield.
The playfield itself is prone to seasonal flooding and because existing drainage system does not function properly, recreational use is limited. It is sug-
gested that an under drainage system be implemented in order to increase use and community value of the playfields.
Landscape Architects & Planners 5.1 APPLICATIONS SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY
HAYDEN SCHOFIELD PLAYFIELD IMPROVEMENTS
Existing Playfield: Poor drainage after flood event
Playfield Potential - Application of under drainage system resulting in better drained soil and sod
SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY 5.2 APPLICATIONS Landscape Architects & Planners
RIVER RECREATION
ex is
i stt in
i n g c ondi
on d itt iion
on
Strengthen pedestrian access along the banks of the river and encourage recreational uses.
AMPHITHEATER
ex is
i stt iinn g c on di
d ittiion
on
Enhance river access and connections at existing public open spaces.

INTERPRETIVE IMPROVEMENTS
e x i sstt i n g condi
c o n d itio
t i onn
Introduce signage and interpretive stations to tell the story of the Spicket River’s history and natural environment.
RIVER OVERLOOK
e x i st i n g c ondi
o n d i ti on
on
Encourage use and safety of roadways as places to fish, relax and observe the river below.
RETAINING WALL OVERLOOK/ LOWER TRAIL COMBINATION
low maintenance riverwalk river recreation elevated river walk vehicular road
slope planting with low wood & river overlook
rail fencing with 42” safety fencing
improved sidewalk
with street tree
Typical river edge conditions should include protective safety fencing at elevated
grade changes and low wood rail fencing at sections of gentle edge transition.
SEASONAL TRAILS
river recreation riverwalk low maintenance elevated trail and plaza

with low wood sloped planting with 42” safety fencing
rail fencing
Typical river edge conditions should include protective low wood rail fencing at sections of gentle edge transition.
Trail options would allow users to actively use portions of the trail depending on river level and seasonal flooding.
UPPER TRAIL OVERLOOK AND CONNECTION
vehicular sidewalk sloped planting riverwalk river access and recreation sloped planting elevated river walk
road with low wood with 42” safety
rail fencing fencing
pedestrian bridge provide river overlook opportunities and a connection to opposite bank

SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY SUMMARY Landscape Architects & Planners
SUMMARY
SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY DESIGN GUIDELINES
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
1. In order to heighten community awareness of the Spicket River, continue annual river cleanup events.
The annual cleanup of the Spicket River, typically undertaken in the fall, is a wonderful activity that removes trash and
debris from the river and contributes to direct community interaction with the natural systems along the Spicket. This
activity should be heavily promoted and advertised to ensure its continued success. An anticipated bonus of the cleanup
will be, hopefully, to discourage illegal dumping at various point along the river.
2. Initiate a program to cut down and clean out dead trees and limbs along the length of the river.
Groundwork Lawrence removed dead trees and limbs from the river stretch along Marion Street in 2005. This activity
should be continued for the entire length of the Spicket River, phased as budgets allow. In light of the damage from the
Flood of 2006, this activity should have a high priority.
3. Encourage the City to enter into negotiations to receive ownership or easements to certain parcels.
There are a number of parcels along both banks of the Spicket River that either are subject to seasonal flooding or have
access opportunities to the river that should be pursued. In some cases, these parcels could be purchased; in other cases,
easements to extend the riverwalk through the property would accommodate the public good.
4. Commit to drainage and surface improvements to the Hayden Schofield playfield.

The Hayden Schofield playfield is a major recreational asset to the Lawrence community. It is used actively for ball play
and has a small area of play equipment. The field also presents the Spicket River with a significant storage area in flood
events. Herein lies the dilemma. The field helps reduce flood hazard to surrounding areas but remains wet and unusable
until well after the flood waters have receded.

Landscape Architects & Planners 6.1 SUMMARY SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY
SUMMARY
The field would greatly benefit from the installation of well drained sub-base with an underdrains system. This would
allow the field to continue to act as an area of flood storage while more quickly return to an active playfield once the
flood waters have diminished. As part of the process, the field should be sodded and maintained with a seasonal irrigation
system.
5. Establish enforcement programs at locations of dumping and hazardous conditions.

One of the continuing problems facing the Spicket River today is the continued dumping of construction debris, household
trash and various other deposits at point along the river. Much of this activity happens at point where streets dead end
or abut the river or at crossovers at bridge locations.
A hotline program should be established to encourage residential abutters to report dumping activities and fines for those
caught should be increased to discourage illegal activity. In addition “No Dump” signage should be increased and the public
made aware of appropriate location for trash pick up.
6. Heighten police patrol presence along Spicket River corridor.

A more visible police presence along the river would help residents feel safe and secure and would encourage recreational
uses.
7. Assist City of Lawrence in study to relocate Department of Public Works from site abutting Spicket
River.
The Lawrence Department of Public Works maintenance facility is located at No. 1 Auburn Street abutting the south
bank of the Spicket River. This central location allows the DPW to service all parts of the City of Lawrence. Used as the
storage and service yard for DPW vehicles, the facility is also the drop-off location for motor oil, batteries and other
environmentally hazardous materials. Considering the environmental sensitivity of the Spicket River, these industrial and
hazardous activities are not compatible.

SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY Landscape Architects & Planners
SUMMARY
A first step in addressing this concern would be a general recognition of the present conflict. This could be followed by a
feasibility study to find an appropriate site for the DPW facility. This would be followed, hopefully, by the actual relocation
after which the site could be developed for a more appropriate use.
8. Identify and pursue sources of funding for Spicket River improvements.

Many sources of funding have been identified by the City of Lawrence and Groundwork Lawrence on improvements to
Brook Street Park, FEMA Site Park and other projects in Lawrence. This experience and expertise should be pursued as
the plan for improvements proceed.
9. Approve project schedule and phasing.

Once embraced by the City of Lawrence as a valuable and worthwhile community asset, the planning for improvements to
the Spicket River should begin. Given the associated costs and the likelihood that the improvements will likely stretch over
a number of years, the project should be broken out in phases to ensure that issues of pubic safety and environmental
concerns are addressed in a timely manner.
10. Secure approval to proceed.

The Lawrence Conservation Commission has been an informal participant in the public participation portion of this report.
Subsequent improvements to the Spicket River should be presented to and formally approved by the body.

Landscape Architects & Planners 6.3 SUMMARY SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY
SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY COST ESTIMATE Landscape Architects & Planners
COST ESTIMATE
SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY DESIGN GUIDELINES June 30, 2006
Estimate of Construction Costs
A. Assumptions
1. The Spicket River measures approximately 2.5 miles from Steven’s Pond to the outfall at the Merrimack River. A rough calculation of linear
improvements on both banks of the river suggests that a total of twenty-six thousand (26,000) linear feet of river greenway would be required.
2. Railings and fencing would be approximately divided evenly between low wood rail fencing and 42” high chain link fence.
3. Approximately 312,000 square feet of bituminous concrete pavement would be required to pave the full length of the river greenway.
4. Benches, interpretive displays and signage would be located at strategic locations along the length of the project.
5. Site lighting would be limited to roadway intersections.
B. Cost Estimate
1. Wood Rail Fence 13,000 LF @ $50 = $ 650,000

2. Chain Link Fence 13,000 LF @ $75 = $ 975,000
3. Bituminous Concrete Pavement 312,000 SF @ $6 = $1,872,000
4. Site Furniture Lump Sum $ 100,000
5. Site Lighting Lump Sum $ 200,000
6. Subtotal $3,797,000
7. 15% Project Contingency $ 569,550
8. Project Total $4,366,550

Landscape Architects & Planners 7.1 COST ESTIMATE SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY
SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY APPENDIX Landscape Architects & Planners
SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY GUIDELINES - CASE STUDIES
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Landscape Architects & Planners APPENDIX A SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY
SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY GUIDELINES - CORRIDOR SECTIONS
RIVERWALK PROPOSALS
GREATER INTERFACE AND ACCESS BETWEEN COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AND STEWARDSHIP
NEIGHBORHOOD AND RIVER - CULTURAL EVENTS AT RIVER OR ADJACENT
- WAYFINDING SIGNAGE LOCATED PARKS AND PLAZAS, I.E. FESTIVALS,
THROUGHOUT LAWRENCE PERFORMANCES
- GATEWAYS AND ACCESS POINTS - LOCAL SCHOOLS USE RIVER AS AN OUT-
- CONNECTIONS TO LOCAL PARKS AND DOOR CLASSROOM
CULTURAL CENTERS NATURALLY CLEANSE RUN-OFF BEFORE
RUNNING INTO RIVER TO PROTECT HABITAT
CONTINUOUS TRAIL SYSTEM ALONG RIVER
AND QUALITY OF WATER
RECREATIONAL AMENITY, I.E. JOGGING, BIKING
ETC.IS NOT POSSIBLE CANOPY LEVEL VEGETATION AND LOW BROOK STREET PARK PROSAL
PEDESTRIAN OVERPASSES WHEN TRAIL ACCESS GROUNDCOVER ONLY FOR SAFETY PUR- ACTIVE RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES,
IS NOT POSSIBLE POSES I.E. BASKETBALL, SOCCER, ETC.
ONE-SIDED WHEN CORRIDOR WIDTH OR SLOPE BOAT LAUNCH
IS INADEQUATE SECTION D:
CONNECTION TO RIVERWALK
SEASONAL TRAILS
MALDEN MILLS E D
HISTORICAL/INDUSTRIAL C
LANDMARK A
C
FOCAL AND DESTINATION POINT
OF RIVERWALK
A C
C
SECTION E:
RETAINING WALL OVERLOOK
SECTION A:
RETAINING WALL OVERLOOK/ LOWER TRAIL COMBINATION
B SECTION REFERENCE
POTENTIAL PARKS AND OPEN

SPACES ALONG CORRIDOR
RIVERWALK
SIGNIFICANT RIVERWALK
CONNECTIONS/WAYFINDING
LANDMARK/FOCAL POINTS
SECTION B: SECTION C: SPICKET RIVERWALK GUIDELINES

OVERFLOW/ RIVER PLAZA TIERS UPPER TRAIL Lawrence, Massachusetts
RIVERWALK PROPOSALS
COPLEY WOLFF DESIGN GROUP - BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY APPENDIX B Landscape Architects & Planners
SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY GUIDELINES - EXISTING CONDITIONS
HAYDEN SCHOFIELD
PLAYSTEAD LEAHY OUR HOUSE
SCHOOL COMMUNITY
CENTER
FLEET BANK VACANT LOT

CONTAMINATED FROM PAST INDUSTRIAL
USE
LOCAL CHILDREN USE AS PLAY AREA
SPICKET RIVER
LEONARD SCHOOL PLAY

FIELD
LAWRENCE GENERAL HOSPITAL

PARKING LOT CUTS OFF ACCESS AND
VIEWS TO RIVER
BUILDING ORIENTED AWAY FROM RIVER
SIGNIFICANT CHANGE IN GRADE BETWEEN HOS-
MALDEN MILLS PITAL AND RIVER
KEY INDUSTRIAL AND

COMMERCIAL AREAS
IMPORTANT CULTURAL
AND SOCIAL LINKS
CENTRAL CATHOLIC
APPENDIX B
HIGH SCHOOL PRIMARY RESIDENTIAL
DISTRICT
LAWRENCE HIGH DOWNTOWN LAWRENCE/

SCHOOL SPORTS PRIMARY BUSINESS DISTRICT
FIELD
TOWN COMMON
NORTH CANAL
NEGATIVE FACTORS:
MERRIMACK RIVER MERRIMACK RIVER
NON-ACCESSIBLE LAWRENCE COMMUNITY CONNECTION
UNDERUTILIZED POTENTIAL AS A VISUAL, REC-
REATIONAL AND NATURAL AMENITY
POSITIVE FACTORS: CENTER
USED FOR UNDESIRABLE ACTIVITIES CAN PROVIDE FOR MULTI-USE ACTIVITIES DUCK BRIDGE
(DRINKING, GARBAGE DUMPING, ETC.) NATURAL CORRIDER, WITH LUSH VEGETATION CONNECTION FOR SOUTH LAWRENCE
COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL LOTS HAVE
TURNED THEIR BACK TO THE RIVER ADJACENT TO MANY EDUCATIONAL, SOCIAL AND
CULTURAL CENTERS
POLLUTED RUN-OFF AND INDUSTRIAL WASTE
CONTAMINATE RIVER VISUALLY APPEALING`
SECURITY ISSUES SURROUNDING BUSINESSES AND
ERODED BANKS, NO EDGES RESIDENCES OFFERS A HIGH USAGE POTENTIAL
HISTORIC USES
SPICKET RIVERWALK GUIDELINES

EXISTING CONDITIONS
COPLEY WOLFF DESIGN GROUP - BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

Landscape Architects & Planners APPENDIX C SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY

Spicket River Greenway Design Guidelines

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Spicket River Greenway Design Guidelines

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SPICKET RIVER GREENWAY DESIGN GUIDELINES June 30,2006

In conjunction with: Groundwork Lawrence

Copley Wolff Design Group

160 Boylston Street • Boston, MA

David M. Walsh, AIA, ASLA

Section 3 - EXISTING CONDITIONS

Section 4 - OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS

Section 5 - APPLICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Section 6 - SUMMARY 6.1 - 6.3 Project Summary

Section 7 - COST ESTIMATE 7.1 Cost Estimate

Section 8 - APPENDIX A Spicket River Guidelines - Case Studies

COPLEY WOLFF DESIGN GROUP

1. Document existing conditions on the river and along both edges.

2. Identify existing access points and river crossings.

3. Catalog observable wildlife and habitats.

4. Identify potential enhancement locations.

5. Document instances and locations of dumping and hazardous conditions.

6. Present to community and incorporate input.

7. Develop guidelines for improvements to existing conditions.

8. Secure support of City of Lawrence officials and EOEA.

9. Develop estimate of probable construction costs.

10. Deliver final report to EOEA.

COPLEY WOLFF DESIGN GROUP

Spicket River in Lawrence

COPLEY WOLFF DESIGN GROUP

COPLEY WOLFF DESIGN GROUP

COPLEY WOLFF DESIGN GROUP

100 YEAR FLOOD

500 YEAR FLOOD

COPLEY WOLFF DESIGN GROUP

malden mills dam

s p illway at m ald en m ills

v i e w w est aatt FEMA si

COPLEY WOLFF DESIGN GROUP

• There is limited physical and visual access to the river.

COPLEY WOLFF DESIGN GROUP

• Informative signage would enhance the community’s understanding and stewardship of

COPLEY WOLFF DESIGN GROUP

COPLEY WOLFF DESIGN GROUP

IMMIGRANT PARK TO HAYDEN

Existing Playfield: Poor drainage after flood event

Enhance river access and connections at existing public open spaces.

river recreation riverwalk low maintenance elevated trail and plaza

COPLEY WOLFF DESIGN GROUP