Citizen Information

Northwest River Park - YMCA Summer Camp

Additional Information

Environmental Issues

• Environmental Site Assessments – Two Phase I Environmental Site Assessments were performed on the property and both determined that no Recognized Environmental Conditions were in connection with the property.  Both assessments determined that no further investigations were warranted for the property.

• Wetlands – The Army Corps of Engineers confirmed their jurisdiction and the extent of wetlands on property.  Based on the location of wetlands, we anticipate minor, if any impacts to wetlands on the property.

• Endangered Species – According to the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries Fish and Wildlife Information Service, portions of the park likely contain habitat for one State Endangered species known as the canebrake rattlesnake. Some scientific observations and collections were performed within portions of the park from 1972 to 1995 regarding the canebrake.  The project site is currently an active area with equestrian use and grass pasture; therefore, canebrake habitat does not exist within the project area.

• Historic Resources – According to the Virginia Department of Historic Resources’ Data Sharing System, no historic archeological or architectural resources exist within the project area.

• Lighting – A minimum number of exterior security lights will be installed and they will be cut off to ensure total darkness for astronomy programs.

• Noise – The City landscape ordinance requires a minimum of 10-foot buffer. The west, south and east side of the summer camp area has a considerable amount of wooded area to buffer sound. Plans are to double the north (roadside) to a 20-foot buffer. Also, plans are to relocate the amphitheater (assembly area) towards the center area of the project.

• Trees – Trees removal will be held to a minimum. However, for every tree removed, it will be replaced by two trees within the park.

• Storm water – Impervious areas created will include the pool with bath house and deck, assembly hall, crafts building, sports pavilion, 12-16 picnic shelters along with pole and posts for the amphitheater and ropes & initiatives course.  This totals an approximate 36,000 square feet and the current project design, performed by engineering firm Kimley-Horn & Associates (paid by YMCA), will meet or exceed all storm water management requirements. The on site well and septic systems will be designed by the engineering firm Apex (paid by YMCA), and will meet or exceed all Virginia Health Department requirements. The water system for the existing overnight campground will not be affected by the YMCA camp, as it will continue to use the park’s main water system. The septic system would be upgraded to adequately serve the YMCA camp and the park overnight campground.

Road Capacity

• The capacity of Indian Creek Road will increase from its current 8% level to 12% based on the proposed project design.

Emergency Response / Emergency Access

• Emergency response vehicles are located approximately 3.5 miles away near the intersection of Indian Creek Road and Battlefield Blvd. S. (Fire Station #7).

• Emergency Access – access for emergency vehicles to reach the site will be in accordance with PFM (Public Facilities Manual) standards and all applicable city codes.

Water / Septic

• Systems will be designed in compliance with mandated codes.

Increased Park Use

• The YMCA camp will accommodate a maximum number of 400 children (85-95% from Chesapeake) per day, Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during the summer weeks only. (There will be no overnight camping.) With the addition of a swimming pool, it is anticipated the park’s 72 campsite rentals will increase considerable, especially during the summer weekdays.

Swimming Pool

• The pool will be a play type with spray area, approximately 5,000 sq. ft. with a 3-1/2 foot depth. The capacity is approximately 300 users, which includes the deck area. The park’s schedule is primarily intended for campers. While we intend to initially extend the City’s usage of the pool to campers to assess the demand, the pool will open to the public. The details of the public usage are currently being developed by the Department of Parks and Recreation.

Equestrian Area

• There will be a new and large horse ring constructed, as well as improved trails, parking, picnic shelter and restrooms. Water will continue to be available for the horses.

City’s Operational Cost

• All facility operational expenses will be supported by park fee revenues that include camp site rentals.

For more information, contact:

Parks and Recreation Department
at (757) 382-6411.