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Blackwood Farm Park
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Master Plan Report
Adopted March 3, 2011
Orange County Department of
Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation
P.O. Box 8181, Hillsborough, NC 27278
www.co.orange.nc.us/deapr/index.asp
Future
Blackwood Farm Parki
Master Plan Report
The final master plan was adopted by the
Orange County Board of Commissioners
on March 3, 2011
Orange County Department of
Environment, Agriculture, Parks and Recreation
P.O. Box 8181, Hillsborough, NC 27278
www.co.orange.nc.us/deapr/index.asp
As part of its final adoption of the master plan,the BOCC changed the name of the site from New
Hope Park at Blackwood Farm to the future Blackwood Farm Park.
New Hope Park at Blackwood Farm2
Master Plan Committee
Tom Allison
Keith Coleman
Denise Dickinson
Spence Dickinson
Alice Gordon, County Commissioner
Sally Goerner
Geoffrey Hathaway
Barry Jacobs, County Commissioner
Bill Kaiser
Joel Knight
Anne Loeb
Whit Morrow
Trish Rafalow
Holly Reid
Staff: David Stancil, Marabeth Carr, Lori Taft, Dianne Reid, Fletcher Barber, Paul
Thames, Perdita Holtz, Dan Derby, Tina Moon, Rich Shaw
2 The name of the site was subsequently changed to the future Blackwood Farm Park(March 3,2011).
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4 "Future" Blackwood Farm Park
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M.CARR March 3, 2011 Department of Environment,
Agriculture and Parks&Recreation
Future Blackwood Farm Park–Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
I. Background
In late 2001 , Orange County's Lands Legacy Program acquired a 152-acre tract
of land in northern Chapel Hill Township, bordering NC 86 and New Hope
Church Road, for a future park site. This acquisition culminated several months
of negotiations with the Blackwood family trustees, owners of the property. By
2001 , the two surviving children of Herbert and Alice Blackwood, Nannie and
Mary Blackwood', were both in their eighties and the family was looking to sell
the property. The opportunity to sell the land for a future County park was
embraced by the family, and the land was acquired.
Human History of the Site
This land has been farmed since the mid- to late-1700s by some of the early
European settlers of Orange County. This area was settled by Scots-Irish and
German immigrants, who by 1745 had arrived in what was to become Orange
County. After a brief period living in the Hawfields area (now Alamance County),
members of six families—among them the Strayhorns and the Blackwoods-
purchased land along a creek of the Haw River system, which they named "New
Hope Creek."
According to deed research, the Strayhorn family has been associated with the
property as early as 1817, and it is likely that Samuel Strayhorn was responsible
for the construction of the earliest portion of the house dating to 1827. The farm
was later owned by William F. Strayhorn (Samuel's son) and his heirs.
Herbert and Alice Blackwood purchased the farm from Mary Strayhorn Berry and
her husband Dr. John Berry in 1906, and operated a dairy (along with their eight
children) until their deaths in 1958-59. According to Nannie Blackwood, from
whom the County purchased the property, the family raised corn, wheat, sweet
potatoes and cotton. They took milk, butter, eggs, and vegetables to sell in
Durham until the 1950s. Most agricultural activities were phased out by the
1980s, and for the past 20 years or more farming on this site has been limited to
hay production.
In addition to the recorded European-American history on this site, there is
archaeological evidence that both Native Americans and African-Americans lived
and worked in this area.
Purpose and Characteristics of the Site
Orange County's purchase of the Blackwood Farm was to protect this historic
and scenic farm property for a future park site in a location (the New
Hope/University Station area) that was consistent with the County's recreation
Both Blackwood sisters have since passed away,in 2005 and 2006.
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
and parks master plan and strategically located between Hillsborough and
Chapel Hill. The stated intent at the time of acquisition was to provide for a park
that was primarily low-impact recreation (trails, picnic areas) in nature, retaining
components of the natural, scenic, agricultural and historic character of the farm.
In 2006, the Board of Commissioners decided to create a master plan for the
future park, and appointed a committee to develop a proposed plan.
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New Hope Park at Blackwood Farm
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
II. Site Analysis / Opportunities & Constraints Report
In order to adequately develop a master plan for the site, it is helpful to
understand the context, setting and resources that exist on the property. To this
end, an Opportunities and Constraints Report was created that explored the
natural and cultural setting of the property, its history, and the challenges and
opportunities that will be found in designing a park. Prior to this report, three
surveys were conducted in July-September 2006 to specifically assess certain
attributes and resources. These were:
❑ A biological resources assessment, to evaluate the flora and fauna of the
site along with other natural resources,
❑ A cultural/archaeological survey, to explore and evaluate the historic and
archaeological resources present, and
❑ A topographic/tree location survey, to provide detailed information about
the lay of the land and all trees of 18-inch caliper and greater (for future
design purposes).
This section summarizes the findings in the Opportunities and Constraints
Report, which in turn used the findings of the three surveys. (The full report is
provided as Appendix 1).
Most of the original farm remains intact with the old farmhouse and outbuildings
surrounded by agricultural fields and mature woodlands. Some of the rural
character and setting was compromised by the construction of NC 86 in the early
1950s and Interstate 40 in the early 1990s. The land was not actively farmed
after the 1980's, other than hay production by a nearby farmer. Despite those
changes, the general character of the neighborhood remains much as it was over
the past century.
From a planning and zoning perspective, the property is located within the
Orange County-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Joint Planning Area, inside the Rural Buffer
that surrounds Chapel Hill and Carrboro on the north and west. Surrounding land
uses include New Hope Church Road to the south, NC 86 to the east (across
from New Hope Elementary School), a large-lot residential subdivision to the
north, and Interstate 40 and a large undeveloped tract to the west.
The 152-acre site is a mixture of woodland and open farm fields, on which hay
continues to be grown. The old Chapel Hill-Hillsborough Road ran directly in front
of the farmhouse and is still clearly visible as a sunken travel way traversing the
property from south to north. The original house (ca 1827) has been remodeled
many times over the generations. Several farm outbuildings remain, including a
large barn, smokehouse, milking shed, corncrib and garage.
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
In terms of natural resources, around half of the existing vegetation on the
property is mixed-age hardwoods, part of which includes an identified Natural
Heritage site, the "New Hope Church Road Basic Forest," in the southwest
corner of the property. Another portion of woodlands to the northwest was
planted in pine around 20 years ago. Two unnamed streams flow through the
property and separate farm fields and forests, with one of the streams feeding a
three-acre pond. A wetland "seep" also exists along the eastern edge of the site,
north of the existing driveway entrance from NC 86.
The cultural and archaeological survey identified and evaluated significant
cultural resources located on the property so that they will be protected from
development and available for future interpretation of the site.
The survey identified six previously unrecorded archaeological sites, including
the historic roadbed, the building complex and cemetery, and five "high
probability" areas. A summary of the survey findings and report
recommendations is provided as Appendix 2.
Two sites were determined to be "potentially eligible" for the National Register of
Historic Places. The first site, a ceramic scatter, is located north of the large
pond, near the northern property boundary. The second site is the former
Chapel Hill-Hillsborough roadbed.
In addition to the archaeological sites and cultural landscape features, such as
agricultural field terracing, the report states that the entire Blackwood Farm
property may be eligible for the National Register of Historic Places because its
"rural historic" and/or "historic vernacular" landscape is representative of the type
of farms operating in Orange County during the early-twentieth century, many of
which are no longer extant or have lost most of their landscape features due to
commercial and or residential development.
Challenqes and Opportunities
When Orange County acquired the Blackwood Farm property in 2001 the site
was envisioned as a future park with a combination of recreational and
educational uses. The County determined that portions of the forest and open
land (agricultural fields) could support a variety of low-impact activities without
compromising the more historic features of the property (farmstead, old roadway
and scenic vistas) and the more significant natural features including the New
Hope Basic Forest natural area.
The historic house and farm structures provide unusual opportunities and
challenges. The house could, with substantial upgrades, be used for a variety of
purposes. The restored farm buildings could include exhibits and demonstration
areas showing traditional farming practices from the region. Interpretive signs
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
could describe the old stagecoach road, the farmstead, and traditional farming
practices that have occurred on this site (and surrounding areas).
Some of the agricultural fields could continue to be used for production of hay
and/or row crops, and the possibility for smaller garden plots may exist, perhaps
using old farm equipment to demonstrate traditional farming techniques.
The pond, woods, meadows and natural areas could be used for outdoor
recreation programming and environmental study. Examples of potential
programs include birding, pond study, wildlife discovery, reptiles and amphibians,
butterflies and caterpillars, natural composters, and ecological landscaping.
Facilities supporting such programs would serve to foster a greater
understanding, appreciation, and enjoyment of the natural world through
environmental education.
The Opportunities and Constraints Report listed the following specific
opportunities and constraints/challenges for consideration by the group created
to develop a master plan. Please note that some items are listed under both
categories.
Opportunities:
1 . Access — The site is directly between the two largest population centers in
Orange County, and is highly accessible via NC 86, New Hope Church
Road and is close to 1-40 interchange (exit 263). A TTA bus between
Hillsborough and Chapel Hill runs right by the entrance.
2. Rural Setting / Scenic Views — the setting has remained largely
unchanged for several decades (1-40 and NC 86 notwithstanding), and
has several scenic vistas.
3. Proximity to other Facilities — Nearby facilities include New Hope
Elementary School, A.L. Stanback Middle School, Camp New Hope, the
future Durham Technical Community College satellite campus, and two
churches.
4. Existing Structures — A farm building complex is clustered at the end of the
existing driveway (former residence and outbuildings that could serve a
variety of uses). All of the structures are in need of improvements prior to
being available for future use.
5. Old Roadbed (former Hillsborough-Chapel Hill road) — The former road is
a significant cultural resource, suitable for protection and interpretation.
6. Cemetery — The old cemetery, possibly with the remains of former slaves,
is a significant cultural resource, suitable for protection and interpretation.
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
7. Historic and Archaeological Sites — The information gathered from the
sites identified by the survey can be used to interpret the property and the
surrounding areas. These sites should be protected and available for
further research.
8. Orchard — The old orchard is an asset to the farmstead, and could be
revitalized for educational and interpretation purposes.
9. Pond — The large pond is a visual asset to the farmstead, and could be
used for educational, interpretive and possibly recreational (fishing or
canoeing) purposes.
10.Mature Hardwood Forest — Many of the forested areas are suitable for
nature trails, environmental education, and other low-impact uses.
Perimeter forest areas will also help to buffer adjacent properties from
future park activities.
11 .Pine Forest — The pine forest located in the northwest section of the
property is in need of some management (e.g., thinning), but would be
suitable for low-impact recreational uses.
12.Natural Area — the southwest corner of the property includes a state-
recognized natural area, which should be preserved in its natural state.
Nature trails would not compromise the natural area, as long as they are
properly designed and maintained. Signage restricting access to the area
may be needed.
Constraints:
1 . Existing Driveway — The current entrance road from NC 86 leads directly to
the historic farmstead area and was built atop a narrow "causeway" of fill
materials with steep banks on both sides. The width allows passage of one
vehicle at a time. This driveway will likely not be adequate as a park
entrance. The existing entrance could be retained as a service road.
2. Adjacent Residences (northern boundary) — There are six existing homes
adjacent to the north. Design of the park and its facilities should take this into
consideration.
3. Scenic Views — Sections of the property are highly notable for their scenic
views of the farmstead area and agricultural fields, but this also makes them
less likely as candidates for other uses.
4. Historic and Archaeological Resources — The cultural and archaeological
survey identified a number of significant resources and "high-probability
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
areas" that should be protected. The County may wish to pursue additional
survey work on these "high-probability areas" prior to the final design.
5. Existing Structures — State Building Code requirements may restrict the use
of some or all of the existing structures. The extensive renovation work
required for some potential uses may be cost prohibitive. While the County
continues its stabilization and maintenance work, it may wish to develop a
long-term preservation plan for re-using the existing buildings and phasing
the cost of the work over several budget years.
6. Natural Area — It is important to keep all activities outside of the identified
natural area, except for properly designed nature trails with signage.
7. Streams — Two perennial streams and several intermittent feeder streams
flow through the park property. A 65-foot-wide undisturbed buffer is required
along both sides of the streams.
8. Noise — Traffic noise from Interstate 40 should be considered when
designing facilities and activities on the property, especially in the
westernmost portions of the property.
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
III. Committee Meetings and the Design Process
In May 2006, the Orange County Board of Commissioners appointed a 14-
member citizen committee to develop a master plan for the future park site. The
New Hope Park at Blackwood Farm Master Plan Committee included
representatives from agricultural, recreation, historic, educational, economic and
other interests.
Prior to the committee's appointment, a process for the master plan, preliminary
concept plan, and a charge to the committee had been adopted in March 2006.
The adopted process and charge included instructions to the committee as well
as operating principles for the master plan design, which were used by the
committee in creating this plan.
The adopted process and charge along with Preliminary Concept Plan are
provided as Appendix 3.
Between September 2006 and April 2007, the committee met on seven
occasions to create the master plan. In addition, the committee participated in
site walks of the property; site visits to two other parks in Wake and Alamance
counties, and an information sharing email list-serve. Representatives from the
Orange County School Board also participated in some of the meetings.
The following table provides additional detail about the committee's activities:
Date of Meeting Activities
September 18, 2006 Initial committee meeting. Reported on cultural/
archaeological, biological and topo/tree survey findings.
"Opportunities and Constraints Report" on the site presented.
Site visits were planned.
Late- September Site walks of the property held for committee members.
October 6, 2006 Site visits to Blue Jay Point Park (Wake County) and
Cedarock Park (Alamance County).
October 16, 2006 Committee meeting #2. Debrief on site walks and site visits.
Discussion of needs and preferences for the park.
Information-gathering process outlined.
October-November Information-gathering email list-serve.
November 27, 2006 Committee meeting #3. Results of information gathering.
Reports on proximity of playing fields, potential collaboration
with schools on facilities, plans for the Breeze Farm,
sustainable agriculture and the Orange County Space Study.
Prepared for design charette— began pre-charrette exercise
with maps and small groups.
December 18, 2006 Committee meeting #4. Design charrette conducted and
completed —groups shared their thoughts and sketches with
each other.
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
December-January Initial draft charette sketches conveyed by email, groups had
opportunity to make changes and revisions.
January 29, 2007 Committee meeting #5. Reviewed the charrette sketches,
and four design schemes (A-D) with basic infrastructure and
locations created by the Landscape Architect based on the
sketches. Schemes A and C selected for further
consideration. Thoughts and ideas for the Master Plan
document.
February 19, 2007 Committee meeting #6. Reviewed revised Schemes A and
C, identified preferred scheme, identified and agreed to
additional facilities. Reviewed outline of master plan report.
April 18, 2007 Committee meeting #7. Reviewed draft master plan and
document; changes made. Identified points of emphasis for
report. Agreed to review final report and map by email.
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
IV. Findings
After learning about the site, visiting other similar parks, sharing information
electronically and at meetings, and participating in a design charette, there were
several "findings" that the committee identified and used as instruments in crafting
the master plan:
1. In keeping with the preliminary concept plan and the guiding
principles for the master plan, there are several themes to the
park (listed alphabetically):
a. Agricultural Heritage
b. Environmental and Education
c. Historic and Cultural Resources
d. Low-impact Recreation
e. Natural Resources
2. The property is perfectly situated to foster interaction among
populations, whether school children for education (from all
schools, including the new Durham Technical Community
College) or in bringing together citizens from northern and
southern Orange County to share and appreciate different
perspectives and understanding of rural and urban livelihoods.
3. This site offers opportunities for experiential education for both
children and adults. This can enhance community building and
understanding of the County's agricultural and natural/historical
heritage.
4. The farmstead, house and outbuildings should be incorporated
into the overall design of the park.
5. Protection of important vistas and resources will mean siting
some facilities in the northern portion of the site. These should be
designed in a way that minimizes impact on the neighbors to the
north.
6. The scenic vista from New Hope Church Road is an important
amenity and should be protected (as noted in the operating
principles) and utilized as a feature of the park, perhaps with an
"overlook."
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
7. In keeping with green energy, self-sufficiency and environmental
education themes, future buildings at the park should use "green
building" standards. The potential exists for educational exhibits
on the uses of sustainable energy, which was a foregone
conclusion on 19th century farms such as the Blackwood Farm.
8. A pedestrian crossing for NC 86 is important for visits from
neighboring New Hope Elementary School (and nearby Stanback
Middle School) and the potential co-use of facilities (parking, etc).
NCDOT should be asked to further investigate the potential for a
pedestrian crossing for NC 86, which would help with parking for
large events and safety for school children. Off-site connectivity
between the schools is also important.
9. The historic Chapel Hill-Hillsborough Road is an asset for the
park and should be protected and incorporated into the park.
10. The park should retain the agricultural and horticultural heritage
of the site as a part of the park experience, which could include
exhibits about the County's agricultural heritage, areas for
demonstration of agricultural practices, and community gardens.
11. The County should continue to have dialogue with both school
systems about the potential for working together on educational
opportunities at the site.
12. The site's location offers a chance to site and create a Nature
Center, with outdoor classrooms and interpretive trails.
11
Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
V. Recommended Master Plan and Rationale
In its deliberations about the master plan for the park, the Committee discussed a
wide range of possible uses and activities. This future park is in a unique central
location between our largest population centers in Orange County. This makes it
a key destination and resource for many Orange County residents by foot, bike,
auto and transit. As a unique site, this discussion required considerable definition
of terms and explanation of potential uses that go beyond the typical park master
plan list of facilities. The nature of the discussions required some degree of
consideration of the eventual themes and uses of the park. This master plan was
also unique in another way — in that this is a plan for a park that does not have
current funding for construction.
The Master Plan Committee proposes the following as "givens" -- facilities or
themes that are understood or cross many different topics and facility
discussions:
"Givens"
1 . The park should retain and rehabilitate the historic farmstead buildings
as a key component of the park.
2. Natural resources, including streams and buffer areas should be
preserved within the site, as shown in the plan.
3. The future park entrance road and future Parks Operation Base should
be located in the northeast corner of the site, both for ease of access
and to provide visual and physical separation from the scenic vista and
farmstead. Future road connections to the north and south are also
provided for in the design.
4. The existing driveway on NC 86 is constructed on a narrow causeway
from fill material and has line of sight concerns. This driveway is
proposed for use as a service entrance only (except for special
occasions as a secondary exit).
5. To the extent possible, the historic Chapel Hill-Hillsborough Road should
be left undisturbed, with signage to denote its location and where trails
and other amenities cross the road or are nearby.
6. The scenic vista between New Hope Church Road and the farmstead
should be retained and kept in some type of agricultural use that reflects
the scenic nature of the viewshed and site.
7. The natural area in the southwest corner of the site should be protected
and left in its current state, with a loop trail around the site.
8. Some portions of the site should be left available for as yet
undetermined future uses, as other opportunities and facilities become
desired in the future.
9. Pedestrian access among the different nodes of activity on the site
should be provided by connecting trails and loop trails.
10. Picnic tables, benches and small open spaces should be interspersed at
strategic locations across the site.
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
11 . The overhead power line running through the scenic vista should be
buried during park development.
In terms of more specific facility and use recommendations for the New Hope
Park at Blackwood Farm, the Master Plan Committee proposes the following:
1. An amphitheatre (at one of three possible locations),
2. Community Gardens,
3. An entry road with roundabout and adjoining parking,
4. A "Learning Center" for nature, agricultural, cultural/historical education,
5. A Playground near the Learning Center,
6. An informal multi-purpose field on western edge of property ("1-40" field),
7. A series of loop hiking trails (including the historic roadbed trail and a
trail circling the Natural Heritage site), as well as pedestrian trails
connecting different pods of activity within the park,
8. A potential bike trail through the pine forest wooded area (northwest),
9. A fishing dock on the pond,
10. A series of picnic shelters in different locations,
11. An overlook from New Hope Church Road, with nearby picnic shelter,
12. An open field (east of farmstead) for possible agricultural demonstration,
13. Retention and enhancement of existing "orchard" north of the farmstead,
14. Protection of and signage about the old cemetery (western portion).
The following paragraphs provide further elaboration on the facilities listed
above:
❑ The committee felt it was important to not over-design the site, knowing
that future opportunities and ideas may arise that will need space, and
that there is currently no funding for the park.
❑ The proposed entry road to the park is sited at the northeastern portion
of the park, in proximity to the planned Parks Operation Base and an
improved line of sight for traffic.
❑ The proposed amphitheatre (defined here as a "covered performance
shell with surrounding grassy seating") would be an important park
amenity and should be constructed in one of the three locations
identified on the master plan, pending further assessment. A report on a
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
recommended location for this facility would be forthcoming, using the
2007 Cool Jazz festival as a barometer. Staff will also test the decibel
level for 1-40 traffic noise at the three spots, and looking at orientation
toward the sun and handicap-accessibility.
❑ The primary parking for the park would be located off of a roundabout
near the Parks Operation Base, and run north-south along the edge of
the northeastern farm field. A future connection to the proposed service
road would be available for special events or as needed. One spur from
the roundabout would run north to a second parking area north of the
pond and the north-central field.
❑ It is recommended that the northeastern field (south of the roundabout)
be dedicated for use as a community garden, the details of which will
need to be addressed in the future.
❑ Orange County currently has no education or nature centers. With much
potential for education at this park, the Committee felt that this would be
a good location for a Learning Center (i.e., educational facility). The
proposed Learning Center would be located near the pond and
wetlands, and also have an adjoining playground. The Learning Center
is envisioned as a structure that could include hands-on exhibits about
farm life, environmental education, energy use, historic resources, and a
variety of other activities, with an indoor and outdoor classrooms and
perhaps an office.
❑ An informal multi-purpose field would be provided for in the westernmost
part of the site, along 1-40. This field would be open for a variety of uses.
❑ Pedestrian access is very important within the park. Some of the
proposed activity centers require a substantial walk, necessitating
careful planning of the trail network. The planned trails are primarily
natural surface and connect the different components of the park or loop
certain features (such as the pond or vista). Signage (interpretive and
other) is suggested to make the trails a learning experience as well as
recreational. The trail network should serve to discourage unnecessary
driving within the site. External access (NC 86 pedestrian and bike
access) is a concern and will need to be addressed with NCDOT, which
has to date expressed concerns about any pedestrian access across NC
86. Also, bike lanes approaching the park would critical to encourage
non-vehicular connectivity opportunities envisioned by the County.
❑ The potential for a mountain bike trail within the northwestern forested
area is recommended for further exploration. There is also substantial
road bicycle traffic along New Hope Church Road and this park would be
an inviting destination and/or opportunity for a comfort stop.
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
❑ In the cases of amphitheatre events or special activities, the parking
areas are located in a fashion that allows for overflow parking and a
secondary exit point along the narrow existing driveway.
❑ There is an existing small orchard of fruit trees north of the farmstead.
This is proposed to be enhanced, perhaps working in conjunction with
the Cooperative Extension Service Master Gardeners program.
❑ The agricultural heritage component of the park, whether exhibits,
community gardens or demonstration fields, should educate about all
agricultural heritage (pre-European, African-American).
❑ Partnership with the schools (both those nearby and with others in the
County) is important to help make the educational possibilities happen.
❑ The agricultural demonstration area offers an opportunity to display
historic farm techniques and technology (such as draft horses and
mules) and possibly to grow heirloom crops.
❑ The beauty of the scenic vista from New Hope Church Road is an
amenity unto itself, and an informal pull-off has been used for years by
citizens to pause and enjoy the view. The proposed overlook has been
designed in conjunction with NCDOT standards, the topography, and
proximity to a nearby picnic shelter with restrooms. This overlook could
be used by the public, and also by public safety vehicles as a way
station for communication and on-road paperwork. This could help
address security at this point of the park, which is removed from most of
the activity centers. The vista would be protected by siting the entrance
as far west as possible (given the terrain). A bike rack would also be a
good amenity to have at this spot, given the frequent bike traffic along
New Hope Church Road. Care in design will be needed for these
reasons.
❑ A small cemetery, with primarily unmarked graves, is located southwest
from the farmstead in the woods. This may be a slave cemetery, based
on preliminary archaeological study. The committee recommends this
the cemetery be preserved, researched and have signage to display its
significance in a respectful manner.
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
The Farmstead Buildings
As previously noted, substantial work is underway to stabilize and secure the
existing farmstead buildings — and substantial further work will be required to
use the buildings as part of the park.
The Committee considered the role of the farmstead within the park - whether
the complex was seen as a group of buildings to be preserved and
experienced as external exhibits or whether they should be utilized as part of
the park facilities.
Engineering estimates to date indicate that the cost of renovating buildings for
public use such as the farmhouse and barn may run into the hundreds of
thousands of dollars. Future decisions about whether to commit this level of
resources will need to be made by the Board of County Commissioners.
As those discussions occur, the committee offers the following ideas about
the farmstead:
❑ Keeping the farmstead as a focal point of the park is important...we
should not fence people out.
❑ Consider what the historic fencing pattern might have been for the farm
and perhaps replicate that. It is unlikely that the house would have
been within the same enclosure as the barn, for example.
❑ A sequential or gradual restoration of the outbuildings, in accordance
with available funds and possible uses, would be preferred.
❑ The farmstead could represent or replicate the 1920s agricultural
heritage of the County, within the context of other Orange County
farming practices at other times.
❑ Discuss with State and federal agency partners the potential for
collaboration on future farmstead exhibits and demonstration areas.
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
VI. ISSUES FOR FURTHER STUDY
In addition to the findings and proposed master plan, the Committee would like to
suggest the following issues for further study and investigation:
❑ Continued dialogue with NCDOT about pedestrian access and crossing on
NC 86, and also bike lane access from Chapel Hill and Hillsborough
❑ The future preservation and use of the farmstead, as discussed
❑ Pedestrian and bike access to the park from the two nearby schools
❑ The potential for acquisition of adjoining properties to the southeast and
west (adding to the New Hope Basic Forest Natural Area and pedestrian
access at the intersection of NC 86 and New Hope Church Road)
❑ Consider the purchase of easements or encourage protective stewardship
of the old Chapel Hill-Hillsborough roadbed beyond the farm (such as
Stagecoach Road and Camp New Hope)
VI. CONCLUSION
The New Hope Park at Blackwood Farm offers an excellent opportunity to create
a place that transcends conventional park and recreation facilities. The site offers
natural and cultural resources of many different types, covering nearly every
range of the spectrum of resources.
This master plan attempts to use and enhance the existing features of the site,
as directed in the guiding principles to the committee, to create a park experience
that is outside of the norm. It also does not over-design the site, recognizing that
in future years, when funding is available to construct and open the park,
flexibility may be needed to address new and different concepts and ideas that
have not yet been identified.
The Committee thanks the Board of Commissioners for the opportunity to create
a design for this beautiful and unique property, and looks forward to continued
dialogue and consideration of the master plan, culminating in the day when this
site can be made available for public use.
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Future Blackwood Farm Park—Master Plan Report Adopted March 3, 2011
APPENDICES
Appendix 1 - Opportunities and Constraints Report
Appendix 2 — Excerpts from Cultural/Archaeological Survey
Appendix 3 — Charge to the Committee
Appendix 4 — Cost Estimates and Priority Facilities Identified
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