< PreviousCASCADE LOOP SCENIC BYWAY 5. Action Plan 180 Region 7 | North Cascades NC 1 Evaluate and select locations to install Cascade Loop Scenic Byway interpretive/information kiosk(s) in this region; locations to be determined. Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Near TermEstimated Cost: Very Low to evaluate and confirm locations; Medium to High for design and installation depending on number installed Local partners and interests working with the Cascade Loop Association NC 2 Coordinate with the US Forest Service to determine the possibility of expanding and improving the Lone Fir Campground with partnership support. Also coordinate with the US Forest Service on the potential to implement other projects and improvements over time, such as: Vista clearing and firewise thinking along SR 20 route, Vista pull-off at open area below Swamp Creek with view to Mesahchie Glacier and development of interpretive displays about the glacier, Development of safe and convenient parking at the hairpin in the avalanche runout with context sensitive vault toilet that could be removed seasonally to preclude avalanche damage, Building an interpretive loop trail up to the airplane wreck site; featuring a way for casual hikers to see Alpine Larch up close, Building a parking area immediately adjacent to the Silver Star gate for skiing (for use before Cutthroat opens seasonally), Building a parking area at the high point above and east of Varden Creek for skiers, and Building a parking area with loop road access between Klipchuck and Cedar Creeks, including closure gate just above Klipchuck for use as snowmobile and snowshoe parking area. Near Term: Meet with US Forest Service to determine feasibility; discuss potential for partnership support Mid-Term to Long Term: Seek funding and implement improvements Estimated Cost: High Local interests and partners working with the US Forest Service (Mike Liu is Winthrop District Ranger); Cascade Loop Association in support role NC 3 Coordinate with WSDOT to improve and enhance maintenance shed area at Early Winters. Clarify Methow Trails trailhead parking. Near Term: Meet with agencies to explore options and discuss partnership potential Mid-Term to Long Term: Seek funding and implement improvements Estimated Cost: Medium to High Local interests and partners coordinating with WSDOT; Cascade Loop Association in support role 5. Action Plan CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN 181 NC 4 Build a coalition of partners to support re-opening and refurbishing the Early Winters Guard Station. Would not need rest area at hairpin turn (see NC-2 above) if old Guard Station could be reopened. This was previously attempted but did not move forward. Over the long term it may be worth revisiting. Refurbishing could create displays with information to orient snowmobilers, backcountry skiers, and others and provide safety guidance about avalanche preparedness and avalanche closures. Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Mid-Term to Long Term Estimated Cost: High Local interests and partners (NGOs, Audubon, etc.) working with US Forest Service, WSDOT, NPS, and others; Cascade Loop Association in support role NC 5 Coordinate and partner with snowmobile clubs to provide outreach about wildlife closure areas. OngoingEstimated Cost: Very Low Local interests and partners NC 6 Coordinate with the US Forest Service to determine the possibility of expanding the Cutthroat Trailhead. Install a closure gate and improve parking. Expand accessibility to spring skiing before the pass opens. Near Term: Meet with US Forest Service Mid-Term to Long Term: Seek funding and implement improvements Estimated Cost: High Local interests and partners working with the US Forest Service (Mike Liu is Winthrop District Ranger); Cascade Loop Association in support role NC 7 Coordinate with the US Forest Service to determine the possibility of expanding the Blue Lake Trailhead and parking area, along with a loop road between parking and Washington Pass. This would enable potential for future campground/climbers’ hostel on the bench below the trail while supplying more parking in the short term (avoids the need to disrupt current parking which is heavily overused). Also could install closure gate to allow east side access during west side closure events, together with a Washington Pass meadow loop trail. (This would help to prevent the area being impacted by visitor-created trails.) Near Term: Meet with US Forest Service Mid-Term to Long Term: Seek funding and implement improvements Estimated Cost: High Local interests and partners working with the US Forest Service (Mike Liu is Winthrop District Ranger); Cascade Loop Association in support role Goals and Benefits As previously described, implementation of specific action items will achieve plan goals and result in benefits under the categories of: 1. Enhancing Visitor Experience 2. Strengthening the Brand Identity and Character of the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway 3. Expanding Multi-Modal Transportation Options and Encouraging Green Travel 4. Preserving and Protecting Important Resources and Intrinsic Qualities 5. Improving Community Livability and Economic Vitality Many of the action items support multiple of these categories, and in some cases all of them, as identified in the Action Plan Summary Table.CASCADE LOOP SCENIC BYWAY 5. Action Plan 182 NC 8 Coordinate with WSDOT to determine how the Blue Lake parking area could be plowed more regularly for use by cross-country skiers. The efforts of the Nordic Club might be a model to explore. Near TermEstimated Cost: Low to Medium Can private partnership funding help support public operations? Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest with support from Cascade Loop Foundation NC 9 Coordinate with the US Forest Service to determine the possibility of expanding the Bridge Creek Trailhead. Near Term: Meet with US Forest Service Mid-Term to Long Term: Seek funding and implement improvements Estimated Cost: High Local interests and partners working with the US Forest Service with Cascade Loop Association in support role NC 10 Coordinate with the US Forest Service to explore the potential of remodeling the building at Washington Pass and creating a self-guided interpretive center. Also coordinate with the US Forest Service on potentially expanding the period of time that the comfort station is open (keeping the comfort station operational during the same time that the road is open). Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Near Term: Meet with US Forest Service Estimated Cost: High Local interests and partners working with the US Forest Service with Cascade Loop Association in support role NC 11 Enhance signing to provide information and orientation to visitors entering the most highly used hiking areas of the national forest and national park lands. The signing needs to match national park/national forest styles and quality. Enhanced signing along SR 20, is needed to: Better identify visitor sites and pull off areas in advance, Better identify the visitor center, which is hidden causing travelers to pass by without knowing that it is there, Provide a greater sense of entering and exiting the national park and national forest lands, and Alert drivers of “Slow Moving Vehicles” that may be on the road ascending and within the North Cascades (from Mazama to Rockport) and to encourage use of slow vehicle pull-off areas provided by WSDOT. Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Near Term: coordinate with partners Mid-Term: seek funding and implement Estimated Cost: Medium Local interests and partners, WSDOT, Twisp Visitor Information Center, US Forest Service, National Park Service; Cascade Loop Association in support role NC 12 Support the US Forest Service in implementation of adopted plans and proposed projects in the region. OngoingStaff/volunteer time Funding may be needed from public and private sources to support projects Local interests and partners coordinating with the US Forest Service; Cascade Loop Association in support role 5. Action Plan CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN 183 NC 13 Support the National Park Service in implementation of adopted plans and projects for the North Cascades National Park Complex. OngoingFor the Cascade Loop Association; costs will be very low, involving staff/volunteer time Local interests and partners coordinating with the National Park Service; Cascade Loop Association in support role NC 14 Evaluate opportunities to promote scenic views and interpret North Cascades natural and cultural history and resources with potential additional waysides/pull-offs in this region. Update Notes: this project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted as well. Near Term: Coordinate with land management agencies to discuss possibilities Mid-Term to Long Term: Seek funding and implement Estimated Cost: Medium to High per location Local interests and partners/NGOs, coordinating with the US Forest Service, National Park Service, and other land managers; Cascade Loop Association in support role NC 15 Improve public amenities to Skagit Wildlife Area/Bald Eagle Natural Area parking and adding alternative green restroom and interpretive signs. This area provides access to the Skagit River for boating and fishing, and for bald eagle and other wildlife viewing opportunities. Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Mid-TermEstimated Cost: Medium to High Staff/volunteer time for promotional work WA Dept of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) manages the site; other partners may support project; Cascade Loop Foundation in support role Goals and Benefits As previously described, implementation of specific action items will achieve plan goals and result in benefits under the categories of: 1. Enhancing Visitor Experience 2. Strengthening the Brand Identity and Character of the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway 3. Expanding Multi-Modal Transportation Options and Encouraging Green Travel 4. Preserving and Protecting Important Resources and Intrinsic Qualities 5. Improving Community Livability and Economic Vitality Many of the action items support multiple of these categories, and in some cases all of them, as identified in the Action Plan Summary Table.CASCADE LOOP SCENIC BYWAY 5. Action Plan 184 NC 16 Work with Skagit Land Trust to create comprehensive plan for improving public access to appropriate upper Skagit properties like Hurn Field while protecting the land and its inhabitants. Near TermEstimated Cost: Medium to High Skagit Land Trust and Cascade Loop partners/interest; Cascade Loop Foundation in support role NC 17 Continue to promote the unique experiences of the town of Concrete along the Cascade Loop, including the loop tour of historic sites. Install kiosk at the concrete silos; promote as “doorway” to the North Cascades. Explore potential for existing signing directing travelers off the highway to main street. Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Near Term and Ongoing Estimated Cost: Medium for kiosk Staff/volunteer time for promotional work City of Concrete and local partners/ interests working with the Cascade Loop Association and WSDOT NC 18 Install interpretive signage along Skagit River. Information should include the Old Ferry site; Skagit River watershed (second largest entering the Pacific Ocean after Columbia River); use of the river by American Indians for transportation; wildlife (Skagit is the only river with all five Pacific salmon species); eagle watching locations; world class steelhead fishing; and hydropower use. Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Near Term to Mid-Term Estimated Cost: Medium Local interests working with environmental groups, service clubs, and others with Cascade Loop Foundation in support role NC 19 Work with WSDOT to implement continuous bike lanes, side bike tours, and/or separated shared use paths (paralleling the route) throughout this region of the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway; the first step of this action could be a non-motorized transportation analysis/study for the Cascade Loop to identify gaps in existing bicycling facilities (Note: SR 20 is part of a national cross-country bicycling route, refer to Bicycle Association of Washington.) Near Term: Non-motorized transportation analysis/study Mid-Term: Seek funding Long Term: implementation Estimated Cost: Low to Medium for analysis/study High (for bike lane improvements) Cascade Loop Association, local communities and partners working with WSDOT Goals and Benefits As previously described, implementation of specific action items will achieve plan goals and result in benefits under the categories of: 1. Enhancing Visitor Experience 2. Strengthening the Brand Identity and Character of the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway 3. Expanding Multi-Modal Transportation Options and Encouraging Green Travel 4. Preserving and Protecting Important Resources and Intrinsic Qualities 5. Improving Community Livability and Economic Vitality Many of the action items support multiple of these categories, and in some cases all of them, as identified in the Action Plan Summary Table.5. Action Plan CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN 185 Region 8 | Skagit Valley & Fidalgo Island SVFI 1 Identify the need for and support development of a corridor management plan for the Skagit Scenic Byway (between existing North Cascades and Whidbey Scenic Isle Way byways). This area is already designated as an Agricultural Scenic Corridor by the Washington State Legislature. Near Term: Identify partners and seek funding for plan Mid-Term: complete plan and obtain byway designation Estimated Cost: Medium to high using staff/volunteer support time Local collaborative tourism interests/ Skagit Tourism Bureau; local chambers of commerce in the region; other local interests and partners; coordinating with WSDOT and state representatives; Cascade Loop Foundation in support role SVFI 2 Evaluate and select locations to install Cascade Loop Scenic Byway interpretive/information kiosk(s) in this region. Potential locations identified include: Anacortes Ferry Terminal Tommy Thompson Trail (specific location to be determined) Deception Pass tours parking lot on Fidalgo Island (if area can be expanded with improvements) Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Near TermEstimated Cost: Very Low to evaluate and confirm locations; Medium to High for design and installation depending on number installed Local partners and interests working with the Cascade Loop Foundation SVFI 3 Install additional signs to guide Cascade Loop travelers in this region; specific locations of interest include: Upon turning onto Fidalgo Island on SR 20 (signing is needed indicating the route to the Cascade Loop); and On Interstate 5, provide signs north and south in advance of the turn-off to SR 20 north and south. Update Notes: 80 byway markers, wayfinding and 4 gateway signs designed and installed Near TermEstimated Cost: Low Cascade Loop Foundation and local partners SVFI 4 Continue to promote and support agritourism and culinary opportunities related to this region: bloom fields, wineries/breweries, farm stands, u-pick fields, locally sourced food products, farmers markets, etc. OngoingStaff/volunteer timeCascade Loop Association and local partners SVFI 5 Continue to promote La Conner as a side trip of the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway. OngoingStaff/volunteer timeCascade Loop Association and partners CASCADE LOOP SCENIC BYWAY 5. Action Plan 186 SVFI 6 Create a plan for placing interpretive kiosk at Downtown Mount Vernon Riverwalk Revitalization Project Plaza; signs could provide historical, cultural and natural background on native peoples, European pioneers, and Skagit River and its delta farmlands within the Agricultural Scenic Corridor. Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Near Term and Ongoing Estimated Cost: For materials: Medium to High, supported by staff/volunteer time Local collaborative tourism interests (chambers) and staff from cities; Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland, Skagit Historical Society, Swinomish and Upper Skagit Tribes with Cascade Loop Foundation in support role SVFI 7 Develop interpretive displays and exhibits for Burlington-Skagit County Regional Byways Visitor Center featuring the region’s scenic byways: Cascade Loop/North Cascades, Chuckanut Drive, Whidbey Island and Mt Baker, plus Skagit County and its Agricultural Scenic Corridor. Include Cascade Loop Scenic Byway branding and information. Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Near TermEstimated Cost: Low to Medium Local collaborative tourism interests (chambers) and staff from cities; Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland, Skagit Historical Society, Swinomish and Upper Skagit Tribes with Cascade Loop Foundation in support role SVFI 8 Develop a plan for a gateway to the North Cascades, including public art for Sedro-Woolley SR20 traffic roundabouts; brand as part of Cascade Loop Scenic Byway. Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. 80 byway markers, wayfinding and 4 gateway signs designed and installed Near TermEstimated Cost: Very Low for coordination and strategizing Medium to High for implementation Sedro-Woolley Chamber of Commerce and City staff; National Park Service; WSDOT; Cascade Loop Foundation in support role Goals and Benefits As previously described, implementation of specific action items will achieve plan goals and result in benefits under the categories of: 1. Enhancing Visitor Experience 2. Strengthening the Brand Identity and Character of the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway 3. Expanding Multi-Modal Transportation Options and Encouraging Green Travel 4. Preserving and Protecting Important Resources and Intrinsic Qualities 5. Improving Community Livability and Economic Vitality Many of the action items support multiple of these categories, and in some cases all of them, as identified in the Action Plan Summary Table.5. Action Plan CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN 187 SVFI 9 Develop overall plan for improving visitor access and safety around popular natural, agricultural, and wildlife sites such as Skagit River and Lakes, wildlife viewing areas, bloom fields, winter birding areas, etc. Specific project ideas include the following. Identify needed improvements to winter birding in Skagit Wildlife Areas (access, amenities, parking, signage) before developing Skagit winter birding festival in conjunction with the Eagle Festival. This effort would be led by chamber and Skagit Audubon Society members in collaboration with county officials. This land is under WA Dept of Fish & Wildlife management. Work with Skagit Land Trust to create comprehensive plan for improving public access to appropriate middle and lower Skagit properties such as the new Nichols Bar county park property while protecting the land and its inhabitants. This effort would be led by the chamber and Skagit Land Trust (SLT) staff. Coordinate with Skagit County on where potential improvements (shoulder widening/pull-offs, etc.) may be needed on county roads that are popular for winter bird watching (trumpeter swans, etc.). Identify locations where road shoulders are available for pulling-off and bird watching; promote the best locations to visitors. Mid-TermEstimated Cost: Low to Medium supported by staff/ volunteer time Local collaborative tourism interests, including local chambers and city representatives; Skagit Land Trust, Skagit Audubon Society, Skagit County officials; and other public, non-profit, and private partners; Cascade Loop Foundation in support role SVFI 10 Improve existing Anacortes SR 20 rest area and scenic overlook of Fidalgo Bay by adding interpretive kiosk or signage about its cultural, historical, and ecological importance, and possible viewing deck. The site serves thousands of auto and bike travelers each year as a paved turnout with grass area and picnic benches, but also needs a low maintenance “green” restroom not requiring sewer hookup. Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Near TermEstimated Cost: Medium to High Anacortes chamber and city representatives; collaborative local tourism interests; WSDOT; Cascade Loop Foundation in support role SVFI 11 Create a plan for improving public access, amenities, and signage along Skagit portions of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail. including the Tommy Thompson Trail, which connects to downtown Anacortes and also will eventually connect to Guemes Channel Trail from downtown, through the Ship Harbor Interpretive Preserve, to the WSF Anacortes Terminal. Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Near TermEstimated Cost: Medium to High Local collaborative tourism interests, including Anacortes chamber and city staff; Pacific Northwest Trail Association; WSF and WSDOT; Cascade Loop Foundation in support role CASCADE LOOP SCENIC BYWAY 5. Action Plan 188 SVFI 12 Increase public awareness, use, and appreciation for the Washington Department of Natural Resources’ Fidalgo Bay Aquatic Reserve; Develop Tommy Thompson Trail March’s Point Trailhead (on March’s Point Road/ Christianson Road near SR 20 right before Oak Harbor turnoff) with interpretive signage, viewing area, and possible non-motorized boat launch. Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Mid-TermEstimated Cost: High Local collaborative tourism interests working with the Department of Natural Resources; Cascade Loop Foundation in support role SVFI 13 Work with Anacortes City Parks to create an interpretive plan and install interpretive signs for Ship Harbor Interpretive Preserve helping to increase wetlands education and appreciation along existing boardwalk and at proposed interpretive center. The boardwalk is designated as part of the Guemes Channel Trail connecting non-motorized traffic from the WSF Anacortes Terminal to downtown Anacortes, Tommy Thompson Trail, and beyond. Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Mid-TermEstimated Cost: Medium to High Anacortes chamber and City staff coordinating with other local partners; WSDOT and WSF; Cascade Loop Foundation in support role SVFI 14 Work with Swinomish and Upper Skagit tribes to develop historical, cultural, and educational materials and to interpret Native American history at key locations; develop maps, audio/video, marketing materials, interpretive displays, etc. Update Notes: This project to be tied to an overall Interpretive Plan that will be developed after a Cascade Loop Viewshed Analysis has been conducted. Near Term and Ongoing Estimated Cost: Medium Local interests and partners working with representatives from tribes; Cascade Loop Foundation in support role SVFI 15 Work with WSDOT to implement continuous bike lanes, side bike tours, and/or separated shared use paths (paralleling the route) throughout this region of the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway. The first step of this action could be a non-motorized transportation analysis/study for the Cascade Loop to identify gaps in existing bicycling facilities. (Note: SR 20 is part of a national cross-country bicycling route, refer to Bicycle Association of Washington.) Near Term: Non-motorized transportation analysis/study Mid-Term: Seek funding Long Term: implementation Estimated Cost: Low to Medium for analysis/study High (for bike lane improvements) Cascade Loop Foundation, local communities and partners working with WSDOT Goals and Benefits As previously described, implementation of specific action items will achieve plan goals and result in benefits under the categories of: 1. Enhancing Visitor Experience 2. Strengthening the Brand Identity and Character of the Cascade Loop Scenic Byway 3. Expanding Multi-Modal Transportation Options and Encouraging Green Travel 4. Preserving and Protecting Important Resources and Intrinsic Qualities 5. Improving Community Livability and Economic Vitality Many of the action items support multiple of these categories, and in some cases all of them, as identified in the Action Plan Summary Table.5. Action Plan CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN 189 Region 9 | Whidbey Scenic Isle Way WSIW 1 Create a Whidbey Scenic Isle Way Facebook Page and integrate social media messaging; reinforce as part of Cascade Loop Scenic Byway. Update Notes: GoWhidbeyCamanoIslands FB created. Near TermEstimated Cost: Very Low; supported by staff/volunteers Whidbey and Camano Islands Tourism with Cascade Loop Foundation in support role WSIW 2 Evaluate and select locations to install Cascade Loop Scenic Byway interpretive/information kiosk(s) in this region. Potential locations identified include: Visitor center at a suitable location at Deception Pass State Park, Washington’s most visited state park Classic Road (where phone booth is located) Greenbank Farm Bayview Corner Visitor kiosk in vicinity of Ken’s Corner Clinton location near ferry terminal (TBD) Update Notes: This project to be tied to plans being implemented by the Clinton Chamber and other island entities. Near TermEstimated Cost: Very Low to evaluate and confirm locations; Medium to High for design and installation depending on number installed Whidbey and Camano Islands Tourism; other local partners and interests working with the Cascade Loop Foundation WSIW 3 Continue to promote and support agritourism and culinary opportunities related to this region, fruit stands, wineries, locally crafted foods and beverages, and other farm-to-table experiences. OngoingStaff/volunteer timeCascade Loop Association and partners WSIW 4 Create a walking/bicycling/horse riding trail from the Clinton Ferry to Deception Pass; This project is now part of Island County's Comprehensive Non-Motorized Transportation Plan. See: http://bit.ly/1623xyV. Mid-Term to Long Term (by 2020) Estimated Cost: High Island County with Cascade Loop Foundation in support role WSIW 5 Put up the majority of the remaining Whidbey Scenic Isle Way signs. There are 17 signs in inventory and at least 10 more locations along the road can be identified and the signs placed, including putting them on all of the “nickel” highway signs that are already existing. Near TermEstimated Cost: Low Island County and WSDOT with Cascade Loop Foundation in support role Next >