Microsoft Word - Lock Haven Cover.doc

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

OCK

AVEN

ITY

OUNCIL

Richard P. Vilello, Jr., Mayor

Alan D. Black

Jonathan Bravard

James C. Leone

Joel Long

George Shade

Marci Williams

ITY

REASURER

Candace Gibson

ITY OF

OCK

AVEN

TAFF

Leonora Hannagan, City Planner

Richard Marcinkevage, Manager

Cyndi Walker, Zoning Officer

Elwood Hocker, Police Chief

OMPREHENSIVE

LAN

DVISORY

OMMITTEE

Mr. Stephen Gibson

Mr. Dwight Bohlin

Dr. Linda Koch

Commissioner Richard Kyle

Mr. Tim Holladay

Mr. Bill Suydam

Mr. Charles Sweeney

Mr. David Glessner

Mr. Thomas Campbell

Mr. Dennis Greenaway

Mrs. Elaine Miller

Mr. Bob Rolley

Mr. Larry Dotterer

Mr. Robert Maguire

Commissioner Tom Bossert

OCK

AVEN

LANNING

OMMISSION

Dwight Bolin

Jessica Bowman

Patty Carroll

Tom Gallagher

Sean Haines

Carol Latronica

Barbara Masorti

Calvin Winner

Prologue A Message from the Mayor

To the Citizens of the City of Lock Haven

What will our City look like in 20 years? Will we have a vibrant downtown? Will we be able to continue to maintain the
quality of life and deliver essential services to City residents? What is the future of Lock Haven University as it continues
to grow? How can the City improve as the educational, cultural and business center of the region? The City of Lock
Haven Comprehensive Plan is a valuable vehicle for setting forth policies and strategies that will allow current and future
leaders in the Lock Haven community to move the City ahead in the 21

century.

This comprehensive plan provides policies and strategies for a large group of partners to work together to improve the
quality life in Lock Haven. Implementation of this plan will not be accomplished by the City alone. It will require the
partnership of city, county, regional, state, and federal governments along with the private sector. Each has a major stake
in making the strategies in this plan a reality.

The 2005 Comprehensive Plan creates an agenda for improvement, provides guidance for future budgeting activities and
should be regularly consulted for the ongoing business of the City. The City also needs to regularly review and revise this
plan as future conditions change.

It is with pride that we present and adopt the 2005 City of Lock Haven Comprehensive Plan.

Sincerely

Richard P. Vilello, Jr., Mayor

- 1 -

Preface An Overview of the Comprehensive Planning Process

ROLE AND PURPOSE OF

ROLE AND PURPOSE OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PL

THE COMPREHENSIVE PL

THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

The Comprehensive Plan is a general policy guide for the development of the City
of Lock Haven over the next 10 20 years. It provides a vision and a general
direction for policy and community improvement. The Pennsylvania
Municipalities Code (MPC), Act 247 of 1968, as reenacted and amended, requires
the Comprehensive Plan to consider many factors that influence a community such
as location, character, and timing of future development.

The Comprehensive Plan evaluates the existing land use, transportation systems,
housing, community facilities and services, and natural and cultural resources of
Lock Haven - primarily within the City limits, but also in the context of the broader
region. The Plan projects future growth trends and proposes the best possible land
use and implementation tools to accommodate expected growth while protecting
the City's vast and varied resources.

The Comprehensive Plan provides a framework for decision making in the areas of
land use, transportation, housing, municipal services, utilities, and natural resource
conservation. Recommended strategies, including review of ordinances and other
policies will be developed to implement the plan.

Role and Purpose of the

Comprehensive Plan

The 1991 Comprehensive Plan

Relationship between the Plan

and Other Plans

Frequently Asked Questions

Comprehensive Plan

Development Process

City of Lock Haven Factoids

- 2 -

Preface An Overview of the Comprehensive Planning Process

THE 1991 COMPREHENSI

THE 1991 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

VE PLAN

The current City of Lock Haven Comprehensive Plan was adopted
in December, 1991. The 1991 Comprehensive Plan was a review of
changes that had occurred in the City since the previous plan was
adopted in 1977 and proposed goals and objectives and policy
recommendations for planning the future of the City. Key
recommendations found in the 1991 Comprehensive Plan included:

· Preserve the character of the City and maintain the low-

rise residential character of the city.

· Ensure varied housing choices within the City while

protecting the health and safety of the City's residents.

· Assure long term maintenance of the aging housing stock

and evaluate the potential of Lock Haven's housing stock
to accommodate the City's changing population.

· To expand housing choice provide for mixed uses

(residential and commercial) in the central business
district.

· Make intersection improvements to control traffic

congestion and flow problems.

· Institute a neighborhood parking permit program to

supplement off-street parking standards for residential use.

· Ensure the availability of the continued level of recreation

service within the City.

· Provide for continued use and enjoyment of the

Susquehanna River adjoining Lock Haven.

· Establish a Neighborhood Commercial land use

designation on the south side of Water Street across the

street from the commercial area to be displaced by the
Flood Protection project.

· Maintain the long term integrity of the City's historic

character.

· Enhance opportunities for economic growth and

development in the City.

This updated comprehensive plan for the City of Lock Haven will
build on the 1991 plan and provide goals and planning strategies
that address current conditions in the City and provide
recommendations for the future of the City.

HAT THE

OMPREHENSIVE

LAN DOES

· Focuses on current trends and issues in The City of Lock

Haven and addresses these with solutions that are both
practical and innovative.

· Provides the best possible projection of future conditions

based on current patterns and strategies to create a more
desirable and sustainable future.

· Directs future change through a vision of community

potential.

· Establishes the framework for consistency between future

land use policies and land use regulatory measures.

· Assists State, County, and City officials in their decision

making processes.

- 3 -

Preface An Overview of the Comprehensive Planning Process

HAT THE

OMPREHENSIVE

LAN DOES NOT

· Does not affect individual properties.

· Does not determine land development, neither public nor

private.

· Does not preclude future analysis or decision making.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE

THE

COMPREHENSIVE

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AND OTHER PLANS

PLAN AND OTHER PLANS

The City of Lock Haven's Comprehensive Plan gives policy
guidance and direction to City regulations and codes. The Plan
makes policy recommendations to update the following plans and
regulations to provide residents of the City with the best possible
quality of life.

· 1991 City of Lock Haven Comprehensive Plan

· City of Lock Haven Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision

and Land Development Ordinance

· Comprehensive Recreation, Park & Open Space Plan

(1995-1996)

· Comprehensive Parking Management Study - 1997

· Master Plan for Downtown Lock Haven 1999

· Historic Resources Survey 1999-Update

· Action Plan for the William T. Piper Memorial Airport

2004

· Lock Haven University Campus Master Plan 2003

(Prepared by Lock Haven University)

OCAL

UNICIPAL

OMPREHENSIVE

LANS

The City of Lock Haven's Comprehensive Plan aims to achieve its
established goals and objectives in a manner that is consistent with
Clinton County's Comprehensive Plan, as required by the
Pennsylvania MPC. The Plan acknowledges the broader goals of
the County, while making specific recommendations for the City

"If you don't have a picture of where your community
wants to go, all the decisions just kind of get made
without a purpose. They don't add up to a complete
picture of the future"

Jeff Soule, Policy Director

American Planning Association

- 4 -

Preface An Overview of the Comprehensive Planning Process

FAQ

FAQ ---- FREQUENTLY ASKED

FREQUENTLY ASKED

QUESTIONS

OW WILL THE

LAN BE USED

The Plan will be used by City officials, citizen
volunteers, land owners, and developers to evaluate
proposed changes against the Plan's vision and goals.

HO IS IN CHARGE OF MAKING THIS

LAN WORK

While the City Council, Planning Commission, and
other officials will implement this Plan, public
support for the vision and recommendations will be
most important. This public includes residents,
business owners, and organizations that have a direct
interest in the future of the City of Lock Haven.

THE COMPREHENSIVE PL

THE COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING PROCESS

ANNING PROCESS

The comprehensive planning process involved the continuous participation of City
staff and officials, the City Planning Commission, and the general public. The
four step process that was utilized is summarized graphically below.

STRATEGIZING the Steps

"How do we get there?"

UNDERSTANDING the current condition

"Where are we now?"

VISIONING a more desirable future

"Where do we want to be by 2020?"

REALIZING the Vision

"How do we get started?"

2003

2005

- 5 -

City of Lock Haven Factoids

Location: Clinton County, Pennsylvania

Form of Government: City of the Third Class; Incorporated 1870

World Wide Web: www.lockhavencity.org

Size: 2.3 square miles

Population (2000): 9,149

Median Age: 25 years

Housing Units: 3,565

Top Five Employers (2000):

Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania

Keystone Central School District

Wal-Mart

First Quality Products

Lock Haven Hospital

Natural Setting:

Physiographic Province: Ridge and Valley

Watersheds: Bald Eagle Creek

Sugar Run

West Branch of Susquehanna River

Public Parks:
Piper Harmon Playground

Hanna Park

Memorial Park

Triangle Park

Canal Park

Douglas H. Peddie Memorial Park

Lock Haven City Beach

Hammermill Park and Ballfield

Veterans Park

Frank L Taggart Memorial Park

Kistler Playground

Hoberman Park and Ballfield

Eberhart Playground

- 7 -

Chapter 1 An Introduction to the City of Lock Haven

A BRIEF HISTORY OF T

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE CITY OF LOCK

HE CITY OF LOCK

HAVEN

The City of Lock Haven was originally settled in the late 1700s,
when a log house fort and stockade were constructed as a defense
against attacks from the local Indians. Known as Fort Reed, it was
one of many frontier forts situated along the banks of the
Susquehanna River.

The first plan for Lock Haven was put together in 1833 by two heirs
of the area's first settlers, Jerry and Willard Church. They were the
first to recognize the economic potential of the natural resources in
the area, particularly timber. The construction of the Pennsylvania
Canal, completed in 1834, provided the necessary transportation to
get these products to market and set the stage for an era of
significant growth for the town. The arrival of the railroad in 1859
provided a more reliable means of transportation and ultimately
replaced the canal.

By the end of the century, the lumber industry was declining.
Depletion of the forests and regular flood damage to the log booms
and the canal finally put an end to an era for the City. Fortunately,
other industries had begun to take hold that provided a new
economic base for Lock Haven as it entered the 20

Century.

Furniture, paper, fire bricks and silk were all produced in the City.
In 1938, the Piper Aircraft Corporation began producing small
planes on the site of the old silk mills.

Piper Aircraft remained one of the City's largest employers until a
combination of major flood losses in the 1970s and an ownership
struggle resulted in the relocation of the company to Florida in the

1980s. This was a huge blow to the City's economy, creating an
unemployment rate of over 20 percent in the early part of the 1980s.

The City of Lock Haven has seen a number of boom and bust
cycles through its history - much like many of the rural cities and
towns that have grown up along the River. Broad changes in the
manufacturing industry around the country have had far reaching
impacts on the small communities that grew up around their
factories, including Lock Haven. Today, there is still a
manufacturing presence in the City, in fact 16 percent of the City's
residents are employed in that sector. However, the major
employers fall into the Educational, Health and Social Services
Sector, which reflects the growing importance of both Lock Haven
University and the Lock Haven Hospital.

- 8 -

Chapter 1 An Introduction to the City of Lock Haven

LOCK

LOCK HAVEN

HAVEN

HAVEN UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY

Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania was originally founded in
1870 as the Central State Normal School and has become an
important part of the City's fabric. In 1927 it became the Lock
Haven Teacher's College and was renamed Lock Haven State
College in 1959. Throughout the 1960s the main campus
experienced substantial physical growth and in 1983, the college
was granted University status.

The student population of the University has a significant effect on
many aspects of City life. Housing, economics, and community
facilities and services within the City are impacted by the presence
of not only the student body, but also the instructors and
administrative staff. Enrollment has continued to increase over the
years, with only a few short periods of decline. The most recent
being in the early 1990s; however, these have since been recouped.
Chapter 2 provides additional details about the impact of the
University on the City of Lock Haven.

INTO THE TWENTY FIRS

INTO THE TWENTY FIRST CENTURY

T CENTURY

The City of Lock Haven has gone through many changes from its
beginnings as a lumber town, to an industrial center in the 20

Century, and now to a modern day "College Town". There are
numerous historical and cultural resources to be found in the City,
including the Water Street Historic District, the Heisey Museum,
and the Piper Museum. This, combined with outstanding access to
some of the Commonwealth's most beautiful natural areas, sets the
stage for the City to take advantage of the increase in heritage and
recreational tourism as the 21

Century begins.

This Comprehensive Plan will examine the past, present, and some
future trends in order to develop a plan for the City of Lock Haven
to move into the new century that will take advantage of its many
assets, make improvements where necessary, and protect the quality
of life that residents and visitors value greatly.

Chapter Two presents a summary of many of the trends and issues
in the City of Lock Haven. They include socioeconomic data,
information about housing and the economy, and also transportation
and community facilities and services. This information will
provide the basis for developing a vision for the City's future, as
well as the strategies needed to attain that vision.

- 9 -

Chapter 2- The City of Lock Haven Today

INTRODUCTION

Before realistic plans can be made for the future, it is important to understand the
Lock Haven community as it is today. What trends define its existing condition,
and what forces are likely to shape its future. This chapter takes a comprehensive
look at trends and issues surrounding the City's social, natural, and functional
characteristics, and examines their potential impact on its future sustainability.

SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT

The social environment encompasses the socio-economic and socio-cultural
characteristics of the City of Lock Haven. Such characteristics are evaluated by
focusing on the City's population and housing trends, as well as its economic
conditions and the cultural amenities affecting the daily lives of the population.

OPULATION

RENDS AND

SSUES

A fundamental understanding of Lock Haven's population trends and issues is
necessary to make this Comprehensive Plan relevant. This section provides an
overview of these trends and issues and compares them with Clinton County,
adjacent municipalities, and several of the County's Boroughs.

Introduction

Social Environment

Population
Housing
Economics
Cultural Resources

Natural Environment

Natural Resources

Functional Environment

Land Use
Transportation
Community Facilities and

Services

City Administration and

Finances

- 10 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

An important element in the socio-economic evaluation is the
impact that Lock Haven University has on the City. Not only does
the student population of the University contribute to Lock Haven's
dynamics, but they are also considered by the Census Bureau as
permanent residents, resulting in a number of socioeconomic trends
in the City that are directly impacted by the student body.

· The City of Lock Haven had 9,149 residents in 2000 according

to the U.S. Census Bureau. This is nearly one quarter of
Clinton County's total population. Over the past thirty years,
the City's population has been decreasing. Between 1970 and
1980, Lock Haven lost just over 15 percent of its population,
which was due in large part to the extensive damage done by
Hurricane Agnes in 1972. Throughout the next two decades,
the City continued to lose residents, although at much reduced
rates 4 percent during the 1980s and less than one percent in
the 1990s.

At the same time, the townships that surround Lock Haven have
grown, with one exception: Woodward Township lost almost
14 percent of its population during the 1990s. Wayne
Township, just southeast of the City, saw the largest increase in
population almost 74%.

Figure 1 - Population Change

Population Change 1970-2000

Municipalities Surrounding The City of Lock

Haven

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

1500

3000

4500

6000

7500

9000

10500

12000

1970

1980

1990

2000

t
a

l

P

l
a

t
i
o

City of Lock Haven

Allison Tw p

Bald Eagle Tw p

Castanea Tw p

Dunnstable Tw p

Wayne Tw p

Woodw ard Tw p

- 11 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

· Student enrollment at Lock Haven University's main campus

constitutes approximately one third of the population of the City
of Lock Haven. In 2004, the University's main campus
enrollment totaled over 4,400 students.

Figure 2 - Projected Population Growth

Between 1990 and 2004 enrollment increased from about 3,500
students to over 4,400 students. The University's Master Plan

Lock Haven University Master Plan 2003

Prepared by Wallace, Roberts, and Todd, LLC, Philadelphia, PA; Stanton
Leggett and Associates, Larchmont NY; Quad Three Group, Wilkes-Barre, PA

anticipates an increase in student enrollment of about 1 percent,
or 38 students, each year for the next ten years.

· Despite projected student enrollment increases at the

University, recent population projections anticipate a gradual
decline in the City's total population. By 2025 the City of Lock
Haven's population is expected to decrease by approximately 5
percent, or about 421 people. This compares to anticipated
growth of between 6 and 20 percent in all of the surrounding
townships except Woodward Township, which is projected to
see an even greater loss of residents 40 percent by 2025.
(Figure 2 - Projected Population Growth)

· Population Density in the City is illustrated by Census Block on

the Population Density Map. Overall, Lock Haven has a
population density of 3,660 persons per square mile. The
highest densities are found south and east of the University's
Main Campus, where much of the off-campus student housing
is found. Densities decrease on either end of town, which
reflects the large amount of industrial and commercial activity
on the east end, and the University Campus on the west end.

· Contrary to Statewide trends, Lock Haven's population is

statistically young. According to 2000 census data, the median
age decreased from 26 to 25 between 1990 and 2000. This
compares to an average median age of 41 in the adjacent
municipalities and 40 in neighboring boroughs.

This trend is also reflected in the fact that the school age and
young adult populations represent a large percentage of the total
population just over 70 percent. This is largely due to the
students of Lock Haven University being counted as permanent
residents of the City by the Census Bureau. It is more likely
that, outside of the student body of Lock Haven University, the
City's population is aging at rates similar to those found in
neighboring municipalities, where these segments of the

Projected Population Growth 1990 - 2025

City of Lock Haven and Surrounding Municipalities

Source: BonData

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

7000

8000

9000

10000

1990

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2025

l
a

t
i
o

City of Lock Haven

Allison Tw p.

Bald Eagle Tw p

Castanea Tw p

Dunnstable Tw p

Wayne Tw p

Woodw ard Tw p

9,149

8,728

- 12 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

population represent between 53 and 63 percent of the total.
Table 1 summarizes the Census data for 2000.

Table 1 -Population by Age Group

Population by Age Group 2000

Municipality

School

Age

Group

(0- 19

years)

Young

Adult

Group (20

- 44

years)

Mature

Group

(45 -64

years)

Senior

Age Group

(65+ years)

City of Lock Haven

28.5

41.9

14.2

15.4

Allison Twp

22.9

37.6

21.9

17.6

Bald Eagle Twp

26.9

35.9

23.1

14.1

Castanea Twp

21.9

34.0

27.4

16.7

Dunnstable Twp

25.5

29.1

31.1

14.2

WayneTwp

23.9

38.1

24.4

13.6

WoodwardTwp

22.1

31.4

25.5

20.9

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

· Lock Haven's senior age group (65+ years) declined

significantly from 1990 to 2000, as did its school age group.
The senior age group decreased by nearly 200 persons, or by 12
percent over the 1990 to 2000 period. The senior age group
population represents about 15 percent of the total. This is
similar to the surrounding townships where they represent 14 to
20 percent of the residents. However, this is significantly less
than neighboring boroughs where seniors represent about 30
percent. Several factors are probably influencing the decline in
the senior age cohort, including the possibility that seniors are
seeking housing opportunities elsewhere and the presence of the
University's student population.

Figure 3 - Age Group Comparison

Furthermore, the school age group decreased 5 percent, or 146
persons, which produces a direct impact on Keystone Central
School District services and facilities within the City. Though
the young adult age group increased, largely due to rising
enrollment at Lock Haven University, families with young
children may have left the City to take advantage of
employment opportunities elsewhere, creating an imbalance in
the school age population group.

· Lock Haven is becoming slightly more racially diverse, which

is also a trend experienced by many Clinton County
communities. The increase in racial minorities is probably
attributed to the diverse student body at the University, as well
as the immigration of individuals from larger urban areas.

City of Lock Haven Age Group Distribution - 1990 - 2000

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

2,500

3,000

3,500

4,000

4,500

r

o

f

R

i
d

t
s

1990

2000

1990

2,753

3,599

1,286

1,592

2000

2,607

3,838

1,295

1,409

School Age

Group (0-19)

Young Adult

Group (20-44)

Mature Age

Group (45-64)

Senior Age

Group (65+)

- 13 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

Figure 4 compares 1990 and 2000 Census data regarding racial
diversity within the City.

Figure 4 - Racial Diversity

· The average household size has decreased from 2.3 persons per

household in 1990 to 2.2 per household in 2000. Adjacent
municipalities and neighboring boroughs also saw similar
declines in the average household size. According to 2000
Census data, there were 2.4 to 2.6 persons per household in
adjacent municipalities compared to 2.5 to 2.8 persons in 1990.
A decrease in household size is a trend at both the state and
national levels and increases the demand for alternative housing
types.

Table 2 - Household Characteristics

Total Households (Family + Nonfamily)

3,128

100.0

3,310

100.0

Family Households (2 or more persons)

1,807

57.8

1,684

50.9

Married-couple family

1,241

39.7

1,057

31.9

Female householder, no husband present

474

15.2

474

14.3

Nonfamily Households

1,321

42.2

1,626

49.1

Median household size (persons per household)

2.21

Household Type

1990

2000

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, STF3A, 1990 and 2000.

Decennial Census

2.31

Household Characteristics for the City of Lock Haven, 1990-2000

· The number of non-family households in the City rose

approximately 23 percent between 1990 and 2000, from just
over 1300 households to just over 1600 households. This can
be attributed in part to a growing student body at the University;
however, it is comparable to the County-wide growth of this
group, which was about 20 percent during the same time period.
Some of the adjacent municipalities have seen even greater
increases indicating a more far-reaching trend.

A more significant household statistic regarding the impact of
the University would be the percentage of non-family
households in the City. According to 2000 Census data, 49
percent of all households were classified as such. This
compares to an average of 18 to 35 percent of all households in
the surrounding municipalities, as well as neighboring
boroughs.

· Lock Haven boasts the highest percentage of residents 25 years

and older having advanced degrees, i.e. a Master's Degree or
Doctorate, relative to adjacent municipalities. The City also has
a significant number of college graduates, 17 percent; however,
Woodward and Dunnstable Townships have even higher

100

150

200

Number of City Residents

Black

American Indian, Alaska Native

Asian or Pacific Islander

Other race/More than one race

Hispanic

i
a

l

M

i
n

r
i
t
y

r
e

t
e

Racial Diversity, 1990-2000

Source: U.S. Census

2000

1990

- 14 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

percentages of college graduates at 20 and 19 percent
respectively.

Figure 5 shows the educational attainment levels for City
residents based on 2000 Census data. It is interesting to note
that the City had the lowest percentage of high school graduates
42 percent - among the 25 and older population when
compared not only to the adjacent townships, where an average
of 46 percent of residents are high school graduates, but also in
neighboring boroughs where the average is 52 percent of
residents. This is one case where the University's student body
has little influence on the statistics, as most students are under
the age of 25.

Figure 5 - Educational Attainment

· Per Capita Income for residents of the City of Lock Haven

dropped by about 4 percent between 1990 and 2000, according
to the Census Bureau. During the same time period,

neighboring boroughs saw an increase of between 9 and 22
percent, while adjacent townships saw increases between 3.5
and 67 percent. Figure 6 provides a comparison between 1989
and 1999 for the City and the surrounding municipalities.

Figure 6 - Change in Per Capita Income

Educational Attainment, 2000

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Professional

school degree

Doctorate degree

Master's degree

Bachelor's degree

12%

Associate degree

Some College, No

Degree

13%

High school

graduate
(includes

equivalency) 42%

Less than high

school graduate

22%

Change in Per Capita Income 1989 to 1999

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

$5,000

$10,000

$15,000

$20,000

$25,000

$30,000

l
l
i
s

l
d

l
e

t
a

l
e

i
t
y

r
d

1989 Per Capita Incom e
Adjusted for Inflation*

Per capita incom e in 1999

- 15 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

· Nearly one-third of City residents recorded an income below

poverty level in 2000. Between 1990 and 2000 the percent of
City residents in poverty increased a considerable 6 percent
from 24 to 30 percent. (See Figure 7) This rise is partly
attributed to the low average income of a growing University
student population. In addition, when compared to surrounding
townships and neighboring boroughs, Lock Haven is the only
municipality that experienced an increase in the percentage of
the population considered below the poverty level.

Figure 7 - Change in Poverty Levels 1989 - 1999

Percent of Population Below the Poverty Level

1989 vs. 1999

So ur ce: U .S. C ensus B ur eau

0.0

5.0

10.0

15.0

20.0

25.0

30.0

35.0

l
l
i
s

l
d

l
e

t
a

l
e

i
t
y

r
d

r
c

t

o

f

P

l
a

t
i
o

1989

1999

- 16 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

OUSING

RENDS AND

SSUES

The existing and
future quality of
housing is
extremely important
to the prosperity of
Lock Haven.
Attractive housing
and well maintained
residential neighborhoods are one of the most important assets of
any community. Good housing creates a sound tax base that will
continue to appreciate in value and will assure that residents are
living in an environment conducive to healthy and safe living.

Another important feature of the local housing market is the variety
of housing types and prices. A variety of styles and prices provide
housing opportunities for people interested in entering the housing
market. An analysis of existing housing conditions and
characteristics coupled with population projections is necessary
when identifying housing needs for the future. Lock Haven
University has a major influence on housing within the City, which
is reflected in this inventory.

· Between 1990 and 2000 the City of Lock Haven recorded the

highest increase in housing units among the neighboring
boroughs, with an 8 percent raise. (See Table 3) From 1990-
2000, about 260 new or converted housing units were

constructed in Lock Haven, or about 26 units per year. As new
home building accounted for nearly 7 percent of this increase,

the remainder largely represents the conversion of single family
homes into multi-family units. The City is approaching a state
of total build-out.

During the same time period, each of the surrounding townships
experienced double digit housing growth, except Woodward
Township, which actually saw a decrease. Increases ranged
from almost 11 percent in Castanea Township to 67 percent in
Wayne Township.

Table 3 - Housing Unit Growth

· As would be expected in an urban area, housing unit density in

the City of Lock Haven is very high , with just over 1,300
housing units per square mile according to 2000 Census data.
This is comparable to the other boroughs within Clinton County
but far greater than the surrounding townships, which have
housing unit densities ranging from a low of 18 units per square
mile in Bald Eagle Township, to a high of 92 units per square
mile in Castanea Township.

· The City of Lock Haven has fewer single family homes than

any of the neighboring boroughs. The City's housing stock is
split almost in half between single family homes (51 percent;

Historic Homes in the City

of Lock Haven

1990

2000

Allison Township

18.1

Bald Eagle Township

754

874

120

15.9

Castanea Township

481

533

10.8

Dunnstable Township

327

381

16.5

Lock Haven City

3,302

3,565

263

8.0

Wayne Township

297

496

199

67.0

Woodward Township

1,105

1,051

-54

-4.9

Total Housing Units

Municipality

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, STF3A

Change in Total

Units 1990 - 2000

- 17 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

1,844 units) and multi-family homes (49 percent; 1,721 units).
Just over 70 percent of the multi-family homes (1,247 units) are
in buildings with less than ten units, with the highest
representation, 468 units, being those with two units. Many are
probably for student housing. Table 4 summarizes the type of
housing units found in the City, their percent of the total, and
the change over the past ten years.

Table 4 - Types of Housing Units

1990

% of

Total

2000

% of Total

Total Units

3302

100.0

3,565

100.0

263

8.0

1, detached

1463

44.3

1,492

41.9

2.0

1, attached

320

9.7

281

7.9

-39

-12.2

2 units

469

14.2

468

13.1

-1

-0.2

3 or 4 units

290

8.8

367

10.3

26.6

5 to 9 units

338

10.2

412

11.6

21.9

10 to 19 units

110

3.3

100

2.8

-10

-9.1

20 to 49 units

117

3.5

209

5.9

78.6

50 or more units

103

3.1

165

4.6

60.2

Mobile home or trailer

1.0

2.0

108.8

Boat, RV, van or other

1.8

0.0

-58

-100.0

Source: US Census Bureau

Housing Unit Type

Change in Housing

Units 1990 - 2000

Housing Units

· According to 2000 Census Data, 93 percent of the City's

housing stock is occupied. This is down slightly, about 2
percent, from 1990. This rate is higher than in Bald Eagle and
Woodward Townships, where only 84 percent and 91 percent of
housing units respectively are occupied, but lower than in
Allison, Castanea, Dunnstable and Wayne Townships, where
between 95 and 97 percent respectively are occupied.

Of these occupied units, there are more renter-occupied units
than owner-occupied. In 2000, over 61 percent of the City's
housing units were rentals, compared to the County rate of 27
percent. Surrounding municipalities had even fewer renter-
occupied units as a percentage of the total; from 9 percent in

Allison Township to 22 percent in Castanea Township. The
2000 figures represent a 5 percent increase in rental units since
1990, which is largely attributed to more University students
seeking temporary residence in the City.

· The City offers a wide variety of housing types for a range of

income levels. Almost 70 percent of the homes in Lock Haven
are in the $50,000 to $99,999 value range. Another 12 percent
fall into the $100,000 to $149,000 range.

· There are also a number of housing options for low-income

individuals. The Clinton County Housing Authority manages
public housing in Lock Haven. Over 700 City residents live in
homes that range from multi-story buildings to semi-detached
homes. Rental rates are 30% of the individual or family's
income. According to the Housing Authority, even though
these facilities are well maintained, there are frequently excess
vacancies due to a lack of qualified applicants.

Housing for low-income individuals is also provided by the
private sector. There are 330 privately-owned low income
housing units in Lock Haven, with 52 percent, or 173 units,
reserved for family households. There are three housing
developments specifically for family households and four
dedicated to the low-income elderly. Planning issues related to
low-income housing areas include insufficient parking,
especially for multi-family units, and a lack of public transit to
serve this population.

· A large portion of the City's housing stock - 42 percent - was

built prior to 1940. Furthermore, as over 90 percent was built
before 1979, many of them may require electrical, heating,
plumbing, or structural upgrades. More importantly, many of
these homes may contain lead-based paint, which represents a
substantial health risk for children.

- 18 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

However, the Victorian era homes of Lock Haven provide a
connection to the City's Lumber Heritage and, given the growth
of "heritage-based" tourism in the Commonwealth, maintenance
and restoration of these homes could prove to be beneficial to
the City.

Figure 8 - Age of Housing Units

TUDENT

OUSING

Most university communities are faced with the challenges
presented in housing large numbers of students in off campus
private housing. Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania in the fall,
2003 had an enrollment of between 4,400 and 4,600 students.
LHUP can house approximately 1,743 students and between 300
and 400 students are commuters. According to LHUP

approximately 2,200 to 2,500 students are housed off campus in
private housing. Most of this housing occurs within 6-8 blocks of
the campus.

· Students who live in private housing utilize realtor firms or

management companies to locate living space. The university
plays little or no role in this process. LHUP does provide
information to students on what to look for in their search for
off campus housing. However students are responsible for off-
campus losses and conduct and are subject to LHUP
disciplinary measures.

· LHUP has a small Greek system (fraternities/sororities). There

are currently four fraternity houses in which male students
reside. There are four sororities but they have no housing. The
Greek system accounts for only about three to six per cent of
the total students at LHUP.

· LHUP and the City of Lock Haven work closely on off campus

housing and codes enforcement. Representatives of LHUP and
the City meet on a regular basis to discuss issues of mutual
concern.

OUSING

ODES

NFORCEMENT

With over 2,200 LHUP students living in off campus private
housing, the health, safety and welfare of the students using those
properties is of paramount concern to the City and LHUP. Chapter
11, Housing in the City of Lock Haven Code provides the direction
for inspection of these units and the issuance of a Certificate of
Compliance.

Chapter 11 provides for the inspection of residential units occupied
or to be occupied by other than the owner. These units are inspected
every five years. Inspections are performed by independent third

41.8

11.9

8.1

11.9

17.3

2.3

6.7

r
c

t

o

f

T

t
a

l

H

i
n

i
t
s

1939 or

earlier

1940 to

1949

1950 to

1959

1960 to

1969

1970 to

1979

1980 to

1989

1990 to

2000

Year Structure Built

Age of Housing Units in the City of Lock Haven

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

- 20 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

CONOMIC

RENDS

AND

SSUES

The inventory and analysis of
Lock Haven's labor force
and economic resources and
activities are important
components of the
comprehensive planning
process. The growth and
sustainability of the City and
surrounding areas is largely
dependent on its existing
economic structure,
including its relationship to
regional and national market
conditions.

MPLOYMENT

· Lock Haven continues to be one of Clinton County's largest

employment centers. The presence of Lock Haven University
creates numerous employment opportunities dedicated to
various areas of expertise. The University also provides a
market base for other industries ranging from hospitality to
health care. In addition, University staff and students, as well
as local residents, frequent the downtown area of Lock Haven,
ensuring its vitality as the largest concentration of retail and
service establishments in the County.

· Two of the County's top 10 employers are located in the City of

Lock Haven and are highlighted in Table 5. With local
employers such as Lock Haven University and Lock Haven

Hospital, there are many opportunities for stable employment in
the City.

Table 5 - Leading Employers in Lock Haven and Clinton

County

Rank

Company

# of

Employees

Faculty and Staff

594

Faculty, staff, and student emmployees

1,343

Keystone Central School District (Countywide)

750

Wal-Mart - Bald Eagle Township

449

First Quality Products - Wayne Township

431

Woolrich Woolen Mills - Pine Creek Township

355

Brodart Company - Wayne Township

350

Lock Haven Hospital - City of Lock Haven

345

Jersey Shore Steel - Pine Creek Township

298

Truck-Lite Company, Inc. - Wayne Township

297

Avis America - Pine Creek Township

265

Source: Clinton County Economic Partnership

Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania

· Total employment in Lock Haven increased by 8 percent, or

nearly 550 persons, from 1990 to 2000. The largest increases
came in the health care and manufacturing industry sectors,
which recorded individual employment increases of 58 percent
and 25 percent respectively. At the same time, employment in
the retail trade industry sector decreased by about 22 percent.

With the presence of Lock Haven University and Lock Haven
Hospital, it is not surprising that the Educational, Health, and
Social Services Industry sector employs the largest number of
city residents. A total of 1,200 individuals or 32 percent of the
labor force is employed in this industry sector.

The manufacturing sector also commands a considerable market
share of the labor force with 16 percent of individuals. The
retail trade sector is close behind as it employs 14 percent of the

Downtown Lock Haven

- 21 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

labor force; however, this represents a 22 percent decline
between 1990 and 2000. (See Figure 9)

Figure 9 - Resident Employment by Industry City of Lock

Haven

· Table 6 - Employment / Unemployment in Clinton County

illustrates that employment in Clinton County has continued to
climb. From 1990 there has generally been steady growth in
employment. The most recent information (February, 2004)
indicates there are approximately 17,900 persons employed in
Clinton County. Unemployment rates since 1990 have
fluctuated from a high of 10.5 per cent in 1994 to a low of 5.3
percent in 2000. February, 2004 unemployment rates were 7.6
percent.

Table 6 - Employment/Unemployment in Clinton County

· In the City of Lock Haven unemployment was 12.1 percent in

1990 and 8.7 percent in 2000.About three-fourths of Lock
Haven's labor force is employed in white-collar occupations.
Furthermore, this percentage has remained fairly stable over the
last decade. Though manufacturing and other material moving
occupations post high numbers of employees, the combination
of individuals in management and professional occupations, and
those in sales is considerably higher.

· The majority of Lock Haven resident workers (64 percent) drive

alone to their place of employment in 2002 according to the
Census Bureau. This is actually significantly less than at the

Resident Employment by Industry, 2000

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Agriculture, forestry,

fishing and hunting,

and m ining

Construction

Public adm inistration

Other services

(except public

adm inistration)

Arts, entertainm ent,

recreation,

accom odation, food

services

13%

Educational, health

and social services

32%

Inform ation

Transportation and

w arehousing, and

utilities

Finance, insurance,

real estate and rental

and leasing

Professional,

scientific,

m anagem ent,

adm inistrative, and

w aste m anagem ent

services

Retail trade

14%

Wholesale trade

Manufacturing

16%

% Change

Unit

Change

Year Ago

1990

15,300

9.9

1991

15,330

0.2

11.2

1.3

1992

15,865

3.5

9.9

-1.3

1993

15,804

-0.4

9.3

-0.5

1994

15,576

-1.4

10.5

1.2

1995

15,699

0.8

9.7

-0.8

1996

15,903

1.3

-1.7

1997

16,208

1.9

7.6

-0.4

1998

16,349

0.9

6.9

-0.8

1999

17,131

4.8

5.7

-1.2

2000

17,456

1.9

5.3

-0.3

2001

17,450

6.5

1.2

2002

17,990

3.1

8.2

1.7

2003

17,493

-2.8

7.2

-1.1

Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University

Date

Employment

Unemployment

Total

Rate

- 22 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

state and county levels where over 76 and 77 percent drive
alone respectively. The City's development pattern, i.e.,
compact and multi-use, contributes to this trend, as well as to
the relatively high percentage of residents that walk to work
21 percent, compared to 3 percent of residents at both the state
and county levels.

Figure 10 - Place of Work

· According to 2000 Census data, more than half of the City's

employed residents work in Lock Haven. Another 21 percent
work in other Clinton County locations. (See Figure 10).

· Census data also indicates that almost 70 percent of the City's

work force travel less than 20 minutes to get to work. In fact,
about 27 percent travel between 5 to 9 minutes to their place of
employment, which is a much higher percentage than at the

County level where only about 16 percent have such a short
commute.

Figure 11 - Travel Time to Work

IRST

UALITY

NTERPRISES

,
,
,
,

I
I
I
I

.
.
.
.

· First Quality Enterprises, Inc has been a major employer in

Clinton County. First Quality is a private company with over
thirty years of experience in the manufacturing of disposable
personal hygiene products. The company is based in Great
Neck, New York. In 2003 First Quality formed a new company,
First Quality Tissue, LLC to enter the consumer tissue market.
Plans call for a 70,000 ton per year tissue machine and a

Place of Work for Lock Haven Residents - 2000

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Lock Haven City

56%

Other Locations

Lycoming County

10%

Centre County

Clinton County

21%

Percent of Employed Residents

Less than 5

5 to 9

10 to 14

15 to 19

20 to 24

25 to 29

30 to 34

35 to 39

40 to 44

45 to 59

60 to 89

90 or more

Worked at home

i
m

(
M

i
n

t
e

)

Journey to Work Travel Times, 1990-2000

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

2000

1990

- 23 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

complete line of converting equipment for both folded and
rolled tissue, towel and napkin products.

First Quality selected the former International Paper site in
Castenea Township for the manufacturing facility for these
products. The Company is in the process of clearing the existing
buildings and building a new state of the art manufacturing
facility. Production is slated to begin in the second half of 2004.
Initially it is expected that the facility will employ about 300
with total employment expected to reach 600. The total cost of
this project will be $250 million. Phase 1 and 2 will each have
a total of 900,000 square feet

OCK

AVEN

NIV

NIVERSITY OF

ERSITY OF

ENNSYLVANIA

· The current and potential economic impact on the City by Lock

Haven University of Pennsylvania is significant. With 600
faculty and staff and over 4,000 students there are significant
demands for services in the community. Also as previously
described, as LHUP continues to further encroach into the City,
LHUP will be further integrated into the City. Also the potential
for establishing a Keystone Innovation Zone at the new "East
Campus" complex (the former KCSD Junior and Senior High
School) presents opportunities for new business start ups and
better utilization of LHUP's research and development
capabilities.

CONOMIC

EVELOPMENT

I
I
I
I

NITIATIVES IN THE

ITY OF

OCK

AVEN

· Keystone Opportunity Zone - The Lock Haven Airport

Business Park is a 14.75 acre parcel located on the south side of
the William T. Piper Memorial Airport in Lock Haven. It is one
of ten sub zones designated in Central Pennsylvania approved
by the Commonwealth in early 1999. As a result of that
designation, effective January 1, 1999 and continuing until

Decemer 31, 2013, business located in the Air Park KOZ would
be exempt from the following state or local taxes:

Table 7 - KOZ Tax Incentives

State Taxes

Local Taxes

Corporate Net Income Tax

Earned Income/Net Profits Tax

Capital Stock and Foreign Franchise
Tax

Business Gross Receipts, Business
Occupancy, Business Privilege and
Mercantile Taxes

Personal Income Tax

Local Real Property Tax

Sales and Use Tax (purchases used and
consumed by businesses in zone)

· Lock Haven Federal Enterprise Community - In 1994, the

City of Lock Haven was selected as one of 30 communities
nationwide to receive $2.9 Million over a ten-year period in
funding and tax incentives as part of the Federal Enterprise
Community Initiative Program. The program will come to an
end in December 2004. The funding has been used to provide
job training and to stimulate entrepreneurial and other business
opportunities, as well as other job stimulus initiatives. In fact,
the City has achieved each of the benchmarked goals and
objectives of the program's strategic plan.

· Lock Haven Area Enterprise Zone Program - The Lock

Haven Area Enterprise Zone Program received full designation
in 1989 and received approval from the state to expand its
boundaries in 1991 and 1998. The zone includes portions of
Bald Eagle Township, Castanea Township and Woodward
Township and the industrial and commercial core of the City of
Lock Haven. In February 2002, the City was granted an
extension of the Lock Haven Enterprise Zone by the
Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic

- 24 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

Development to June 30, 2007. The Lock Haven Area
Enterprise Zone has been successful in the development and/or
coordination of two revolving loan programs; Enterprise Zone
Program Revolving Loan Fund, which provides low interest
loans to industries located in the zone, and a Commercial
Revolving Loan Program, which provides low interest loans to
commercial businesses located in the City of Lock Haven.

The Commonwealth offers

· The Neighborhood Assistance Zone Tax Credit Program

authorizes tax credits to private companies to encourage
investment and promote growth and economic
revitalization in these targeted areas.

· The Designated Enterprise Zone Competitive Grant

Program is available for businesses located within the
State Enterprise Zone.

· The Local Economic Revitalization Assistance Program

(LERTA) is available in the City of Lock Haven, as well as all
municipalities in Clinton County. This program authorizes
municipalities to exempt improvements to business property if
such property is located in the deteriorated area.

Chapter 24, Part 4, Taxation, Special of the City's Code of
Ordinances provides for property tax exemption under the
LERTA program for those areas of the City determined to be
"deteriorated". Properties in these areas that are improved are
subject to exemptions on the increase in assessment that is
attributable to the actual cost of the improvement for a period of
ten years. They are subject to a schedule of exemptions that
range from 100 percent of deductions on improvements and 0
percent of taxes collected on increases assessment in years one
and two and then gradually increase until year 10 when there
are no deductions and the property owner will pay 100 percent
of tax collected on the increased assessment.

The following areas have been determined to be "deteriorated
areas" within the City of Lock Haven: All areas of the City
zoned as Central Business Districts, General Commercial
Districts, General Commercial/Light Industrial Districts and
Industrial Districts, or which may in the future be zoned as
such.

· Commercial Revolving Loan Program The purpose of the

Commercial Revolving Loan Program is to establish a below
market interest rate loan program for small businesses to
improve their facilities; for the expansion of existing
businesses; and the start-up of new businesses in the City of
Lock Haven.

The term of the loan is usually three years for working capital,
five years for machinery and equipment, and seven years for
real estate. The maximum loan is $50,000 or 50% of the total
project costs, whichever is less. The use of the loan must be
related to the creation and/or retention of 1 job for every
$10,000 borrowed.

· Clinton County Economic Partnership -The Clinton County

Economic Partnership was formed in 1989 to coordinate the
efforts of the Industrial Development Corporation of Clinton
County, the Clinton County Tourist Promotion Agency, and the
Clinton County Chamber of Commerce. The CCEP is able to
access alternate state and federal funding sources for business
development and retention purposes. While the Partnership's
interest is county-wide, some activities and events take a
downtown focus. For example, seasonal social and networking
events are typically located in the downtown area. The Clinton
County Expo is the largest CCEP event and showcases County
business and industry. The event is held at Lock Haven
University.

- 26 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

ULTURAL

ESOURCE

RENDS AND

SSUES

Lock Haven contains a
wealth of cultural
resources, which can set
the stage for potential
tourism related business
ventures in the future. In
recent years, the trend to
eliminate some of the
high style Victorian
details of many of the
homes has shown some
signs of reversal.
Downtown revitalization
and the establishment of
the historic district have
improved the small town feeling of the City of Lock Haven. And
although the levee initially caused a separation from the river,
concerted efforts have brought residents back to the Susquehanna
for both cultural and recreational events.

A review of these resources increases our understanding and
appreciation of the local heritage, while their preservation improves
the City's overall quality of life.

ATER

TREET

ISTORIC

ISTRICT

· Formed in 1973 in the wake of the Hurricane Agnes disaster,

this historic district includes a large area of the City of Lock
Haven between the Susquehanna River and West Church Street.
The district was included on the National Register in 1973. As
described in the 1991 Comprehensive Plan the Historic District
is an eclectic mix of 19th and 20th century architecture. There

are a variety of Victorian and Italianate style properties in the
District. The map on the following page illustrates the
boundaries of the Water Street Historic District

· In 1999 an Update to the Lock Haven Historic Resources

Survey was performed for the City. This was an update to the
original historic resources survey performed in 1983-84.

This Survey includes several findings:

· The early part of the Twentieth Century witnessed the

construction of many quality homes in Lock Haven.
Evident in the Water Street Historic District are structures
reflecting the eras in which they were built up until the
beginning of the Great Depression.

· When the Water Street Historic District was created there

were no zoning provisions or regulations enacted to
preserve the character of the district. There is no Historic
Architectural Review Board (HARB). Improvements are
on a voluntary basis.

· The 1999 Inventory recorded a total of 418 historic

resources in the City of Lock Haven. It included all of the
buildings and sites included within the boundaries of the
Water Street Historic District. Included in the total were
50 resources that are located in other parts of the City.
Therefore we can estimate there are about 368 historic
resources in the Water Street Historic District.

· There are several areas in the Water Street Historic

District where a number of buildings that have been
insensitively altered since 1983-84 have been altered.
These areas include 500 block of West Church Street
which contains rental properties housing Lock Haven
students and East Water Street from Vesper Street to

Water Street Historic District

- 27 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

North Jay Street. This area borders the river and the levee.
Many buildings are old and in need of restoration.

· The construction of the dike-levee, while offering flood

protection to the City impacted properties on East and
West Water Street by removing views of the river and
replacing them with view of the grass covered earthworks
the form the dike-levee system. Several buildings were
also lost during the construction of the dike-levee.

The Survey includes several
recommendations for the preserving and
improving the heritage of Lock Haven.

· Develop programs to help preserve

Lock Haven's architectural legacy.

· Increase code enforcement.

· Adopt a neighborhood

conservation overlay zone
ordinance with review procedures
for new developments and
alterations.

· Create heritage awareness

programs.

· Establish a local historic sites list,

complete additional nominations to
the National Resister of Historic
Places and form a City/County
partnership to preserve and
interpret historic sites.

ISTORIC PROPERTIES A

ISTORIC PROPERTIES AND

ARKERS

In addition to the Water Street Historical District along the River,
there are two individual properties within the city limits of Lock
Haven that are listed on the National Historic Register, according to
the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC)
The Heisey House is located on Water Street and is the home of the
Clinton County Historical Society.

The Memorial Park Site has significant prehistoric archaeological

The Water Street Historic
District

- 28 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

significance and is located near the W.T. Piper Airport at the east
end of the City. As part of the development of the Lock Haven
Airport Business Park, Phase I and Phase II archeological
investigations were completed. As a result of this investigation the
City of Lock Haven entered into a Memorandum of Agreement in
August, 2001 with the Pennsylvania State Historic Preservation
Officer and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This MOA agreed
to preserve in place an 8.1 acre conservation area at the business
park site in order to mitigate any adverse impacts on these sensitive
archeological sites. There are also two other properties that are
eligible for listing: the Lock Haven Market House and Rodgers
Gymnasium.

There are 3 state historical markers located in Lock Haven that
recall the City's past as shown in Table 8.

Table 8 - Historical Markers in Lock Haven

Historical Markers, City of Lock Haven

Marker Name

Date

Dedicated

Location

Category

Heisey Museum

Clinton County

6/12/1982

362 E. Water St.

Government &
Politics

Fort Reed

4/29/1947

W. Main St. & W. Water St.

Military

Pennsylvania Canal
(West Branch Division)

6/16/1952

E. Water St. near Jay St.

Transportation

Source: PHMC, Historical Marker Program, http://www.phmc.state.pa.us.

Two museums that celebrate the City's past are located in Lock
Haven. The Heisey Museum on Water Street is a mid-nineteenth
century home that has been beautifully restored and is also the
home of the Clinton County Historical Society. The Piper Aviation
Museum celebrates the more recent history of the City, namely as
the original home of the Piper Aircraft Company. The museum was
originally established in 1985 under the patronage of the Clinton

County Historical Society, but became a separate organization in
1995. In 1996 the original Piper Engineering building was
purchased to house their extensive aviation exhibits. The museum
is adjacent to the W.T. Piper Memorial Airport.

CULTURAL

VENTS

The City of Lock Haven is the focal point for cultural activities in
Clinton County. The following is a list of selected events and other
attractions during the year.

· The Summer Concert Series at the J. Doyle Corman

Amphitheater and Floating Stage and at Triangle Park.

· Sentimental Journey a family-oriented Fly-In with

vintage Piper airplanes and the people who make and fly
them, with airplanes, food, vendors, and nightly
entertainment.

· The City of Lock Haven sponsors the Annual Lock Haven

Airfest at the William T. Piper Memorial Airport. The
purpose of the Airfest is to reacquaint the residents of
Lock Haven and the surrounding communities with the
Airport's many attributes, as well as educate the public
about the various aspects of aviation in and around the
community.

- 29 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

· Wings Over Piper - Wings Over Piper is held at the

William T. Piper Memorial Airport in August. Wings
Over Piper is an annual event for Radio Controlled
Aircraft Enthusiasts to come to the birthplace of the Piper
Cub (Lock Haven, Pennsylvania) to fly their airplane on
the Piper field. This is the same airport that supported the
Piper Aircraft Corporation in Lock Haven during the
operation of the assembly plant. While all radio controlled
aircraft are welcome to fly, the goal of Wings Over Piper
is to assemble and fly as many model Piper Cubs as
possible.

· The Labor Day Regatta A weekend of outboard

motorboat racing, with amusement rides, foods, arts, and
crafts and fireworks sponsored by the Lock Haven Area
Jaycees.

· The City of Lock Haven Halloween Parade and the

Halloween Festivities at Triangle Park, including trick or
treat at area businesses and special games and activities in
the Park.

· The Lock Haven Holiday Parade in December to welcome

Santa and his elves to town.

· The Bald Eagle Mega Transect is a new event sponsored

by the City and others. This 23 mile endurance hike/trail
run up Bald Eagle Mountain had over 100 participants in
its first year and is expected to double in size for the
second year.

The J. Doyle Corman Amphitheater and Floating Stage

- 30 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

ATURAL

ESOURCE

RENDS AND

SSUES

Lock Haven enjoys a wealth of natural features from nearby
mountain ridges to the Susquehanna River. The identification of
Lock Haven's natural resources is an important part of the planning
process and the delineation of these resources serves as a guide for
future planning decisions.

· Geology The City of Lock Haven is situated on the relatively

flat floodplain of the Western Branch of the Susquehanna River
at its confluence with Bald Eagle Creek. This is part of a larger
geologic region known as the Northern Appalachian Ridge and
Valley Province and is characterized by long, narrow ridges
separated by steep valleys. Lock Haven sits in the valley carved
by the Susquehanna and Bald Eagle Creek at the base of Bald
Eagle Mountain.

The Geologic Formations Map shows the location of the five
dominant geologic formations located in the City. Three of the
five are combinations of two formations. These sub-surface
rock formations ultimately determine the topography of an area
as each weathers differently. They also have a direct impact on
surface drainage, ease of excavation, and groundwater yields.

The formations in the southeastern part of the City are mostly
limestone, while those to the north and west consist mostly of
various types of siltstone and shale. The later two formations
have low to moderate levels of porosity and permeability
indicating that water will not travel through them easily.
Excavation of these formations can be moderately difficult to
difficult; however, once bedrock is reached they will all provide
good foundation stability. Typical groundwater yields in all but

the Lock Haven Formation are approximately 30 gallons per
minute (GPM). Yields in the Lock Haven Formation range
from 2 to 300 GPM. A table specifying the details of the
engineering characteristics of each formation or group can be
found in the Appendix.

· Steep Slopes Slopes with grades of 15 percent or greater are

considered steep, while grades of 25 percent or more are
considered very steep. Disturbing these areas can cause soil
erosion and sediment loading in local streams. In addition,
traditional on-lot septic systems are impractical as the downhill
flow of the effluent may be too rapid for proper filtration.

Very steep slopes within the City limits are shown on the Steep
Slopes and Open Space Map and are found along the river,
which reflects the steepness of the new levee. There are also
some located along PA 120 between Bald Eagle Street and the
US 220 interchange, as well as on the University Campus.

· Soils There are some Prime Farmland Soils and Soils of

Statewide Importance within the City limits. The soils

View from Lock Haven University

- 31 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

included in these categories are highly productive and are
usually prime targets for conservation. There is a pocket of
Prime Farmland soils located along Irwin Street just south of
the intersection with Glenn Road, and another at the confluence
of Sugar Run and the Susquehanna River. Soils of Statewide
Importance can be found scattered around the University's
Main Campus and there is a swath along the river that straddles
Susquehanna Avenue south from Sugar Run almost to the
intersection with Water Street. However, in a City such as Lock
Haven, which is essentially built out with no agricultural
activities, this information has really no impact on future land
use within the City.

While none of these soils are protected by conservation
easements or enrolled in Agricultural Security Areas, there are
two parcels north of the University that are enrolled in the Clean
and Green program. "Clean and Green as it is commonly
known is actually ACT 319. The purpose of ACT 319 is to
provide a real estate tax benefit to owners of agricultural or
forest land by taxing that land on the basis of its "use value"
rather that its "Market Value." This act provides preferential
assessment to any individuals who agree to maintain their land
solely devoted to agricultural use, agricultural reserve, or forest
reserve use."

· Surface Waters The City of Lock Haven is located on the

Susquehanna River, just west of its confluence with Bald Eagle
Creek. Sugar Run enters the Susquehanna on the northwest end
of the City and Lusk Run is actually piped under the University
Campus. All are shown on the Environmentally Sensitive
Features Water Based Map.

Clinton County Assessment Department Website:

http://www.clintoncountypa.com/clean&green.htm

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission has listed Sugar
Run as a Cold Water Fishery. Sugar Run is also listed by the
PADEP as impaired for aquatic life due to siltation from bank
modifications and residential runoff. The PADEP assesses
streams as impaired for aquatic life and human use based on
recent biological assessments and their functional class. This
impairment will need to be a consideration for future planning
within and adjacent to the City. Lusk Run is also listed as a
Cold Water Fishery but is not impaired. The Bald Eagle Creek
is not impaired, while the West Branch continues to suffer from
past acid mine drainage problems.

The map also shows the three watersheds within the City limits:
Bald Eagle Creek, Sugar Run, and the West Branch of the
Susquehanna River. Most of Lock Haven is in the Bald Eagle
Creek Watershed. The University Campus and properties along
the river are in the West Branch Watershed, and a very small
portion on the north end of the City is in the Sugar Run
Watershed. Storm water runoff in these areas will make their
way into the respective water bodies and eventually to the
Chesapeake Bay. There are no local watershed organizations in
the City at the present time.

The City's water supply comes from two surface water sources
located within the McElhattan Creek Supply Watershed, which
is southeast of the City. The Keller Reservoir in Wayne
Township is the permanent active source and has a storage
capacity at the spillway elevation of 92 million gallons. A
second reservoir, the Ohl Reservoir is further upstream in
Greene Township. Recent drought conditions had little effect
on the reservoirs. Annual test results in 2002 indicated that
drinking water met or exceeded Federal and State requirements.
The detailed results can be found on the City's website at
www.lockhavencity.org/water.

- 32 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

The City of Lock Haven Water Authority, the Suburban Lock
Haven Water Authority, and the Central Clinton County Water
Filtration Authority work together to provide water to the
citizens of Lock Haven. More details regarding the Water
Supply System can be found in the Community Facilities and
Services Trends and Issues Sections to follow.

· Wetlands - Wetland resources, which are significant resources

for flood protection and groundwater recharge due to their
ability to filter and store water. There are a very limited number
of wetlands in the City located near the airport and are shown
on Environmentally Sensitive Features Water Based Map.

· Flood Protection In 1972, Hurricane Agnes flooded nearly

60 percent of the City. The damage from this flood event gave
impetus to the Lock Haven Flood Protection project. The Lock
Haven Flood Protection Project was authorized by the Water
Resources Development Act of 1986 to construct flood control
measures along the West Branch of the Susquehanna River and
the Bald Eagle Creek in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania.
Construction of The Lock Haven Flood Protection Project
began in 1991 and was completed in 1994.

The plan of protection for Lock Haven consists of a levee
system with associated interior drainage and utility
modifications. Although the protection plan provides
approximately 31,000 feet of levee, the aesthetic and recreation
features are only addressed along that portion of the levee
system located along the West Branch of the Susquehanna
River. The current aesthetic and recreation features are
described in greater detail as part of the Community Facilities
Recreation Section

- 33 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

FUN

NCTIONAL ENVIRONMENT

CTIONAL ENVIRONMENT

AND

RENDS AND

SSUES

Modern land use decision-making is a multi-faceted process,
particularly when decisions affect large geographic areas and the
populations, economics, and environments within these areas.

The surrounding natural features and transportation routes have
influenced Lock Haven's existing land use patterns. Waterways
provided early, inexpensive routes for transporting goods to
commercial centers downstream. Rail lines were later used in
conjunction with waterways to transport goods to other locations.

· Table 9 provides a tabular summary of the various types of land

uses found within the City, while The Land Use/Land Cover
Classification Map illustrates their spatial distribution.
Residential uses take up almost 33 percent of the total land area,
with single family accounting for almost 27 percent of this total.
Transportation Facilities, including roads, alleys, parking, and
railways, are found on another 19 percent. Thirteen percent of
Lock Haven's land area is used for commercial and industrial
uses.

· Single Family Residential uses are found throughout the City,

with concentrations both north and south of the University's
main campus. Another concentration is found on the east end
near the airport. The presence of Norfolk Southern Rail
facilities and the William T. Piper Airport account for the large
percentage of transportation land uses. Heavy commercial and
industrial uses are found primarily in the southeastern part of
the City, while services, retail establishments and government
buildings are focused in the Central Business District. Lock
Haven University accounts for the vast majority of the
education category, with the remaining categories dispersed
throughout.

Table 9 - Existing Land Use Acreage Summary

Land Use Category

Acres

% of Total

Churches & Cemeteries

39.3

2.3

Communications

4.4

0.3

Educational

75.9

4.5

Forest

183.7

10.8

Government

10.4

0.6

Heavy Commercial

75.3

4.4

Heavy Industrial

60.3

3.6

Light Industrial

2.1

0.1

Miscellaneous Services

12.5

0.7

Multi-Family Residence

93.0

5.5

Recreation

56.1

3.3

Retail

37.1

2.2

Service Institutions

19.7

1.2

Services

28.0

1.7

Single Family Residence

454.1

26.8

Single Family Mobile Home

1.3

0.1

Transportation

328.2

19.4

2-4 Family Residence

7.1

0.4

Utility

49.1

2.9

Vacant & Unused Land

72.4

4.3

Water

83.6

4.9

Total

1693.6

100.0

Source: Clinton County GIS Department

- 34 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

UILDING

CTIVITY

In an effort to gain additional perspective on land use trends within
the City, new construction activity was reviewed and analyzed for
the years 1992 2002. Over that ten year time frame, 57 new
buildings were constructed in Lock Haven. Approximately 49
percent (28 structures) were for residential uses. Commercial
structures, including offices, comprised another 43 percent, or 25
structures. Table 10 is a summary of the new building activity for
1992 2002.

Table 10 - New Building Activity

Year

Type of Structure

Year

Type of Structure

1992

1997

Commercial

Community Facility
(Fire Station)

Industrial (Airport
Bldgs.)

Single Family
Residential

Multi-Family
Residential (34+ units)

1993

1998

Commercial

Single Family
Residential

1994

1999

Commercial

Single Family
Residential

Multi-Family
Residential (33 units)

Multi-Family
Residential (11 units)

1995

2000

Commercial

Single Family
Residential

Industrial

Multi-Family
Residential (4 units)

Single Family
Residential

1996

2001

Commercial

Multi-Family
Residential (24 units)

Community Facility
University Rec Center)

2002

NONE

Source: City of Lock Haven

- 35 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

RANSPORTATION

RENDS AND

SSUES

The transportation network of a community is the backbone for its
development and its prosperity. It can help to attract a thriving
society of merchants and residents, and is part of the overall
foundation for community growth and development. A carefully
planned and maintained transportation system will help sustain the
City's existing quality of life.

RANSPORTATION

OUTES

The Functional Road Class Map shows the major transportation
network for Lock Haven. Major highway connections include:

· U.S. 220 is the major transportation corridor serving Lock

Haven. It provides a connection to I-80 to the south and U.S.
15 to the east. There is one interchange at Paul Mack
Boulevard (SR 120).

· State Route 150 is a major arterial road running through the

middle of Lock Haven that connects the City to Avis Borough
to the east

· State Route 120 is a minor arterial road that connects Lock

Haven to Renovo Borough in northern Clinton County.

There is a desire to convert the one-way traffic patterns of Main and
Church Streets in the downtown business district to two-way traffic
east of the Civil War Monument. Issues related to this include:

· Traffic patterns around the monument would have to be

evaluated and traffic signals reworked to allow this

· Geometric constraints around the monument may preclude

this unless the monument was moved.

RANSPORTATION

AFETY

A three year study of accidents by the Lock Haven City Police
Department from June 1999 through June 2002 identified the top
ten intersection accident locations within the City.

· Main Street and Jay Street (16)

· Bellefonte Avenue and Fairview Street (15)

· Church Street and Grove Street (14)

· Bellefonte Avenue and Commerce Street (10)

· Church Street and Vesper Street (8)

· Bald Eagle Street and Commerce Street (8)

· Bald Eagle Street and Park Street (7)

· E. Walnut Street and Park Street (7)

- 36 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

· E. Walnut Street and Vesper Street (7)

· Main Street and Vesper Street (7)

· Church Street and Paul Mack Boulevard (6)

IGH

CCIDENT

OCATIONS

Table 11 lists the high accident locations as identified by PennDOT.
Refer to the Transportation Deficiencies and Annual Average
Daily Traffic Volumes Map to view these locations.

Table 11 - High Accident Locations

Street or Road

Extent of Accident Locations

Bellefonte Ave. (SR 150)

Church St. to Pearl St.

Bellefonte Ave. (SR 150)

Hampton St. to Allison St.

Church St. (SR 150)

Henderson St. to Bellefonte Ave.

Fairview St.

Bellefonte Ave. to Fourth St.

Henderson St. (SR 150)

Main St. to Church St.

Jay St. (SR 120)

Church St. to Water St.

Main St. (SR 150)

Jay St. to Vesper St.

Street or Road

Extent of Accident Locations

Water St. (SR 120)

Jay St. to Grove St.

Water St. (SR 120)

W. Main St. to Susquehanna Ave.

ARKING

In addition to on-street metered parking, the City owns and operates
seven off-street parking lots. Each parking lot has metered spaces
for general parking and five have reserved spaces for permit
parking. Table 12 on the following page lists the number of
parking spaces available, along with the average permit use during
2004.

· Demand for permit parking for 3 of the 5 lots currently exceeds

the allocations. A review of the business hour metered space
use should be conducted in these lots to determine if permit
parking allocations could be increased.

· Permit parking is significantly underused in 2 of the 5 lots. A

discounted permit fee in these lots could increase permits issued
and possibly reduce demand the overused lots.

· The number of reserved handicap parking spaces does not meet

ADA recommendations for the Upper Church Street or the East
Water Street lots.

- 37 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

Table 12 - Off Street Parking

Lot
No.

Location

Total
Spaces

Handicap
Spaces

Permit Spaces
(Average Use)

East Church St.
at Grove Street

14 (11)

Upper Church
St. at Mill
Street

28 (27)

East Water
Street

28 (28)

East Church
Street at City
Hall

10 (1)

City Beach

17 (5)

East Main
Street

West Water
Street

Total Off Street
Parking

297

97 (72)

· A "Comprehensive Parking Management Study" was completed

by Mullin & Lonergan Associates, Inc. in November, 1997. In

referencing that study, it was stated that parking is generally
adequate in the downtown business district. Some of the
recommendations from the study that have been implemented
include:

· Replacing old parking meters and posting parking

regulations through the streetscapes project.

· Parking violation fines were increased from $3 to $5.

· The underused parking lot behind the Hope Hose Fire House

was sold.

ILLIAM

IPER

EMORIAL

IRPORT

The City operates the William T. Piper Memorial Airport, a
General Aviation facility located at the eastern end of the City. The
Airport has a paved runway, a runway lighting system and paved
taxiways and tie down area. The facility includes 27 T-Hangar
spaces

There are currently no commercial, charter or freight services
operation out of the airport. However, services are available
including fuel,
storage, pilot
supplies such as
maps, a rental car,
and shuttle service to
downtown.

A Draft Airport
Action Plan has been
completed. A
number of projects
are underway
including easement

- 38 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

acquisition, obstruction removal (design phase), perimeter fencing
and taxi-way lighting.

The new "Sports Category "of licenses and airplanes could have a
significant impact on growth and economic development at the
airport. An increase in operations is expected at a minimum.

Special events at the airport, including the Sentimental Journey,
Airfest, and Wings Over Piper (for RC model airplanes), have been
very successful and add a positive economic effect on the
community.

UBLIC

RANSPORTATION

· Fullington Trailways has an office at 226 E. Main Street.

Communities served are State College, Bellefonte, Lock Haven,
Jersey Shore, Williamsport, Hughesville, and Wilkes-Barre

· Susquehanna Trailways is based in Avis Borough and offers

Bus Charters and Tours. They operate a fleet of 32 modern
motor coaches, equipped with restroom, air conditioning,
reclining seats, AM/FM radio with cassette player, VCR player
and TV monitors, and cellular phones. They do not offer daily
inter-city transportation in Clinton County.

· Lock Haven Taxi is located at 14 E. Main Street and provides

taxi-cab service for the community.

ICYCLE AND

EDESTRIAN

ESTRIAN

ACILITIES

· Pennsylvania Bicycle Route G follows Route 150 through the

County. This Bicycle Route links Lock Haven with the Pine
Creek Rail Trail at the eastern end of the County.

· The walkway on the dike-levee is restricted to walking and

provides a 2.5 mile walking trail.

· The streetscapes projects have not only enhanced downtown

appearance, but have made the central business area more
pedestrian friendly.

AIL

RANSPORTATION

· Norfolk Southern's (NS) Harrisburg to Buffalo mainline runs

through Lock Haven City, running east-west, roughly parallel to
Bald Eagle Street until it reaches N. Vesper Street where the
line heads northwest along Railroad Street towards the river.
This rail line handles freight only; there is no passenger service
available in Lock Haven. The line serves a number of industrial
clients along its route and connects to the Nittany and Bald
Eagle Shortline Railroad on the east side of town near the
airport. There are numerous "at-grade" crossings within the
City including, Hanna Street, S. Liberty Street, and Route 150.

- 39 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

THER

RANSPORTATION

ONCERNS

· Speed is a safety issue on Bald Eagle Street and Church Street.

Some form of traffic control is needed to slow down traffic.

· Traffic flow on Church Street and Main Street should be

studied. Items for consideration include signalization,
conversion to two-way traffic, pedestrian crossings, and
unloading zones.

· The need for signalization should be assessed at the intersection

of Bellefonte Avenue and Fairview Street.

· All alleys need traffic control devices.

· Traffic flow around Evergreen Commons needs to be improved.

The width of Mary's Alley is a concern. To improve this
situation, the City is in the process of acquiring four feet from
the LHU Foundation to widen Mary's Alley, which is
anticipated to occur in the spring of 2005.

- 40 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

OMMUNITY

ACILITIES AND

ERVICES

RENDS AND

SSUES

Key trends and issues regarding Lock Haven's community facilities
and services are provided below. These items highlight some of the
City's best features, which span a wide array of community
facilities and services. The Community Facilities Maps illustrate
the location of these facilities within the City.

OLICE

ERVICES

· The City of Lock Haven provides 24-hour police protection.

The police station is located at City Hall, 20 East Church
Street. There are 13 uniformed police officers: the chief, one
detective, and eleven patrol officers, as well as 3 administrative
staff.

· The Police Department has a 2004 General Fund Budget of

$1.04 million dollars.

· The Community Policing Program, which is funded by the

Federal Enterprise Community Program, has initiated a bike
patrol program to bring more visibility in the downtown area.

· The department's "Community Policing" officer also performs

D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) instruction in the
City elementary schools.

· Police vehicles are old with high mileage. A replacement

program needs to be established.

· Other capital improvements of priority include radios and a

record management system.

· Lock Haven University has a Police Department located on

Glen Road on the Campus. There are currently 8 officers on
staff. Their duties include campus patrol and protection, traffic

control during University events, accident investigations, and
emergency reporting.

IRE

ROTECTION

ERVICES

· The City has three fire stations (see Table 13). Three full-time

and six part-time paid drivers provide manpower at each station
from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. seven days a week. On call fire
personnel cover the remaining hours. This system provides for
a rapid response to any and all emergencies in the City at
anytime of the day or night. The Fire Department relies heavily
on the support of volunteers who make up 80% of the fire
services workforce.

· The Fire Departments have a 2004 General Fund Budget of

$220,000, which primarily pays for staff, utilities, and
administrative items.

· Capital expenditures for equipment are an issue. There is no

dedicated fire tax for the City. However, the City has
committed $450,000 in CDBG funding to replace the 25 year
old aerial ladder truck at Hope Hose. The total cost of the new
truck is estimated at $750,000. It is anticipated that the
remaining funds will be obtained from the three companies'
equipment replacement funds and a grant.

Table 13 - Lock Haven Fire Services

Station #

Station
Name

Address

Equipment

Hand-in-
Hand

5 N Henderson St
Lock Haven

Pumper/Tanker

Hopes

124-128 E Church St
Lock Haven

Pumper/Tanker
Aerial Platform

Citizens

415 Bellefonte Ave
Lock Haven

Pumper/Tanker (1)
Brush Pumper
Light Rescue
Boat
Scuba Special Unit

- 41 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

· There are some volunteer firemen in Citizens who are students

at Lock Haven University

· Lock Haven Emergency

Medical Services (21 Liberty
Street) and Lock Haven
Hospital Paramedics (24 Cree
Drive) provide emergency
services to residents of the
City.

DUCATIONAL

ACILITIES

The Keystone Central School District serves all of Clinton
County except for a portion of Pine Township and Avis
Borough in the eastern part of the county and West Keating
Township in the western part of the County. The school district
also includes Curtin and Liberty Townships in Centre County
and Stewardson Township in Potter County.

Enrollments in the Keystone Central School District have had
dramatic decreases over the past decade. According to
enrollment information in the Pennsylvania Economy League
2003 report "An Analysis of Demographics and Community
Growth Patterns and Projections of Public School Enrollments
and a Review of Elementary Building Capacities and Utilization
in the Keystone Central School District 2002-03", total K-12
enrollments have decreased from 5,759 students in the 1992-93
school year to 4,768 in the 2003-03 school year. This is a loss
of 991 students or a 17.2 percent decrease.

Another interesting analysis is the correlation between
population, housing units and enrollments. Table 14 and the
conclusion below, which are from the Pennsylvania Economy

League (PEL) report, show that while housing and population
have had net increases, school enrollments have continued to
decrease.

Table 14 - Proportionate Change in Population, Housing Units,

and Enrollment 1970 - 2000

"Clearly, public school enrollment patterns in the Keystone
Central School District have not had a direct correlation with
trends in population and housing units. During the 1970s
population and housing units grew, while enrollments decrease.
During the 1980s population decreased while housing units
again rose and enrollments decreased, although the rate of loss
in enrollments was almost half of what it was during the 1970s.
During the 1990s population and housing units rose, but during
this decade public school enrollments decreased at a slightly
faster rate than the previous decade." (PEL Report, 2003)

There are three elementary school buildings in the City of Lock
Haven. These include the Dickey Elementary on South Fairview
Street, the McGhee Elementary on 115 West Fourth Street and
Robb Elementary at 400 East Church Street. The Keystone
Central School District also has their administration building at
95 West Fourth Street.

· Dickey Elementary is located on South Fairview Street and

houses classes for Kindergarten to Fifth Grade. Table 15
provides enrollments form the 1997-98 to 2002-03 school years.
Enrollments have decreased slight during this period; 18

1970 - 1980

1980 - 1990

1990 - 2000

Change

Population

1,231

(1,537)

(4)

683

Housing Units

2,735

478

1,660

Total Enrollment

(1,829)

(22)

(756)

(12)

(840)

(15)

Source: PEL Report, 2003

- 42 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

students overall or a 7.6 per cent decrease. Projections in the
PEL Report show continuing decreases in enrollment to 195
students by the 2007-08 school year.

Table 15 - Change in Enrollment - Dickey Elementary

McGhee Elementary is located on West Fourth Street and houses
classes for Kindergarten to Fifth Grade. Table 16 provides
enrollments for the McGhee School from the 1997-98 to 2002-03
school years. Enrollments show a modest increase of 30 students
over this period or a 16.3 percent increase. Enrollment projections
in the PEL Report show a net increase of 3 students or basically no
change in enrollment by the 2007-08 school year.

Table 16 - Change in Enrollment - McGhee Elementary

· Robb Elementary is located at 400 East Church Street and

houses classes for Kindergarten to Fifth Grade. The building
was remodeled and enlarged in 1993. Enrollments at this
building are larger than the other two elementary schools in the
City. Table 17 provides enrollments for Robb Elementary from
the 1997-98 to 2002-03 school year. Enrollments have
decreased by 358 students or a 13.3 percent decrease.
Enrollment projections in the PEL Report show that student
enrollments will continue to decrease by about 30 students in
the 2007-08 school year.

Table 17 - Change in Enrollment - Robb Elementary

EYSTONE

ENTRAL

CHOOL

ISTRICT

DMINISTRATION

UILDING

The KCSD administrative offices are located at 95 West Fourth
Street in the City of Lock Haven. The offices are part of the Vo-
Tech complex that was sold recently sold to Lock Haven University
of Pennsylvania (LHUP). The school district is currently leasing
their office from LHUP.

1997-98

236

1998-99

258

9.3

1999-2000

256

-2

-0.8

2000-01

233

-23

-9

2001-02

226

-7

-3

2002-03

218

-8

-3.5

Total Change 1997-98 to 2002-03

-18

-3.5

Source: PEL Report, 2003

Change from Previous

Year

School Year

Enrollment

K-5

1997-98

184

1998-99

199

8.2

1999-2000

203

2000-01

204

0.5

2001-02

223

9.3

2002-03

214

-9

-4

Total Change 1997-98 to 2002-03

16.3

Source: PEL Report, 2003

School Year

Enrollment

K-5

Change from Previous

1997-98

413

1998-99

375

-38

-9.2

1999-2000

369

-6

-1.6

2000-01

373

1.1

2001-02

372

-1

-0.3

2002-03

358

-14

-3.8

Total Change 1997-98 to 2002-03

-55

-13.3

Source: PEL Report, 2003

School Year

Enrollment

K-5

Change from Previous

- 43 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

RIVATE

CHOOLS

There are also two private schools in the City

· The Lock Haven Christian School is located at 787 Vesper

Street in the City. The school has an enrollment of
approximately 78 students in Kindergarten through 12th
grade.

· The Lock Haven Catholic Elementary School is located at

311 West Water Street in the City. The school has an
enrollment of approximately 192 students in Kindergarten
through 6th grade.

EST

RANCH

ECHNOLOGY

ENTER

The West Branch Technology Center works to meet the continuing
professional education and technology-related needs of business
and industry, nonprofit organizations, and educators. It is located
in downtown Lock Haven at 110 East Bald Eagle Street. The West
Branch Technology Center provides training and technical support,
database and Web site design services, and continuing education
opportunities. The Technology Center's staff specializes in
designing customized training packages for educators, businesses,
and organizations. The West Branch Technology Center's ABLE
Academy provides high quality online continuing professional
education opportunities.

- 44 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

OCK

AVEN

NIVERSITY OF

ENNSYLVANIA

OCATION

Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania (LHUP) has its Main
Campus on the western edge of the City of Lock Haven. The
Main Campus consists of approximately 175 acres, more than
50 buildings and over 1.5 million square feet of space. The
majority of the buildings were built over a 15 year period from
1960 to 1975. Of the 50 buildings, 9 are four or more story
buildings and 11 are three story buildings. The campus is
compact and is geographically constrained. Steep slopes and the
Susquehanna River both present constraints to future growth of
the Lock Haven Campus. Other constraints on the perimeter of
the campus are residential neighborhoods and cemeteries which
will also constrain future expansion.

NROLLMENT

· The Main Campus of LHUP had a Fall, 2003 student population

of 4,406 students (based on head count). Full time equivalents
(FTE's students taking 18 semester hours) were 4,523, but
this includes students at both the Main campus and the branch
campus in Clearfield. Approximately 1,743 students reside on
campus. This number is based upon the number of beds
currently available for resident students on campus. The
remainder lives off campus in rental housing or commute from
their homes. LHUP is a big employer with approximately 600
faculty and staff employees. The LHUP Campus Master Plan
(completed in 2003) indicates that by 2020, enrollments will be
about 4,573 for Main Campus FTE students and 4,781 for Main
Campus head count students. These projections may be too
conservative in view of actual fall, 2003 enrollment data.
Nevertheless, enrollment at LHUP will continue to grow.

Figure 12 LHUP Projected Enrollments

ARKING

· According to the LHUP Campus Master Plan there are

approximately 1700 parking spaces in lots around the campus.
Lots are restricted into three categories: faculty/staff, students,
and employees/students. According to the LHUP Campus
Master Plan there will be the need for 429 additional parking
spaces on campus by 2020 and the need for 153 replacement
parking spaces or a total of 582 spaces. Some of this additional
parking needs will come from locations outside of the Main
Campus. These include:

Lock Haven University

Projected Student Enrollment to 2025

Source: Lock Haven University Draft Master Plan

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

.

o

f

S

t
u

t
s

- 45 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

· Vo-Tech Site and Open Space west of Vo-Tech (acquired

from Keystone Central School District - KCSD) 177 net
new spaces.

· Former High School Site (acquired from KCSD) 20

spaces

· Silk Mill Silk Mill has been demolished. Additional area

for parking has not been improved. Currently there is no
funding for improvements.

· Lot No. 8 Removal of tennis courts 158 new spaces

ACILITIES AND

CQUISITIONS BY

LHUP/L

OCK

AVEN

NIVERSITY

OUNDATION

UNDATION

· Recently LHUP has acquired several sites and facilities that lie

outside of the core campus. These sites are located to the east of
the University's Main Campus and are referred to as the "East
Campus". According to the Campus Master Plan "The effect
of these acquisitions is to expand the geographic extent of the
campus, and to shift the centroid of the campus to the east." The
following is a list of the Keystone Central School District
properties that have been acquired by the LHUP.

· Vo-Tech Building/Administration Building/Shop

Located at Railroad and Fourth Streets this 4-5 acre
complex was purchased by LHUP from KCSD. The
Administration Building is leased back to KCSD and the
Vo-Tech is planned to be used by LHUP. The lease with
KCSD expires in 2006. As stated above in the parking
section this area will also be improved to accommodate a
total of about 177 parking spaces.

· Senior/Junior High School/Gym/Bridge Located at 301

West Church Street this complex now know as the "East
Campus" was purchased by LHUP from KCSD.
Renovations of the gym and the Junior High School will

take place in 2004. Senior High School renovations are
not yet funded and that part of the complex will not be
occupied until renovations are completed. Currently there
is no time table for the renovations to the Senior High
School. The Junior High School is planned to be used by
LHUP for non teaching functions. These include the
Small Business Program. The Junior High School is
planned by LHUP to be a Keystone Innovation Zone
(KIZ) under Pennsylvania's Economic Stimulus Package.
KIZs are designated areas that may be established in
communities that host institutions of higher learning such
as LHUP. These zones are designed to foster innovation
and create entrepreneurial opportunities. KIZs will allow
university communities like Lock Haven to make more
effective use of the resources at the university. They will
help to support new entrepreneurial opportunities that lead
to new companies and jobs.

· As part of the East Campus improvements LHUP has

converted a house into the VIP House. Two other
properties acquired by LHUP in this area will be
demolished and cleared for parking.

OCK

AVEN

NIVERSITY

OUNDATION

ACILITIES

· Evergreen Commons This site is located on the south side of

Fourth Street on the former KCSD practice field. The Lock
Haven University Foundation is developing 408 apartment units
on this site which will be rented to LHUP students. This
housing complex is expected to be available for students in
August/September, 2004. North of Fourth Street at this location
is a triangular shaped parcel of land that will provide parking
for Evergreen Commons. This land will be transferred from
LHUP to the Lock Haven University Foundation.

- 46 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

· Campus Village This housing complex is located at Church St

and the rail road. It includes housing, the chair factory (used for
storage by LHUP) and was the site of the train station which has
been demolished. This complex is owned by the Lock Haven
University Foundation and leased to LHUP.

THE

THER

ONSIDERATIONS

· Elimination of through traffic on Railroad Street from 4th Street

to Water Street LHUP is interested in acquiring the right of
way from the City to make this a pedestrian walkway that
would link the Main Campus with other newly
acquired/constructed facilities such as Evergreen Commons, the
East Campus, Campus Village and the Vo-Tech/Administration
Building complex. There are currently no sidewalks in this area
except in front of the Vo-Tech complex.

· Potential removal of the rail lines in this area which serve as

both a barrier and safety hazard.

· The Campus Master Plan points out that the former KCSD

facilities can resolve many of the future space needs of the
University. Clearly the acquisitions of the KCSD properties
provide options for the University which are outlined in the
Campus Master Plan. These facilities can alleviate the need for
space and parking in the future. The impacts on the City will be
that the University will break out of their Main Campus and
extend significantly into areas of the City where the University
has not traditionally operated. LHUP and the City need to look
upon this expansion as opportunities for both which can have a
positive impact on the future development and redevelopment
of the City and the areas surrounding the University facilities.

ECENT

CQUISITION

RENDS BY

LHUP

AND THE

OCK

AVEN

NIVERSITY

OUNDATIONS

(LHUF)

· Court House Annex, Susquehanna Avenue (LHUP)

· Silk Mill (LHUP)

· Recreation Center, Railroad Street (LHUP)

· Vo-Tech/Shop/Administration Building (LHUP)

· Senior High School/Junior High School and three houses.

(LHUP)

· Campus Village (LHUF)

· Coploff House, North Fairview Street Student

Housing(LHUF)

· ROTC Building, North Fairview Street (LHUP)

· Lot # 16 Former Private home located on Susquehanna

Avenue just south of the Court House Annex (LHUP)

· House Third and West Church Streets (LHUF)

· House Northwest of Jack Stadium (Purchased by LHUF

and given to LHUP)

· 27 acres of vacant/wooded land-west of campus and north

of Glenn Road (LHUP has interest in purchasing)

THER

DUCATIONAL

PPORTUNITIES

In addition to Lock Haven University, residents of the County have
close access to and significant opportunities to pursue a higher
education. Available programs in adjacent counties include: Penn
State University located in University Park, Centre County,
Lycoming College and Pennsylvania College of Technology
located in Williamsport, Lycoming County, and Bucknell
University, located in Lewisburg, Union County.

- 47 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

EALTH

ARE

ACILITIES

Lock Haven Hospital (24 Cree Drive) is a 77-bed facility, with a
120-bed extended care facility. Dedicated to Community Health
Outreach, Lock Haven Hospital offers a variety of inpatient and
outpatient services including: 24-hour emergency care with heliport
access, intensive care and critical care units (ICU/CCU), an
operating room, a post-anesthesia care unit, a short procedure unit,
and an extended care unit.

Services provided
include: obstetrics,
pediatrics, physical
therapy,
cardiopulmonary
services, cardiac
rehab, endoscopic
surgery,
occupational
therapy, speech
therapy, therapeutic
recreation, sleep laboratory, dietetic services, pharmacy and
advanced life support paramedic services. Specialized diagnostic
tools include CT scanner, open MRI unit, radiology facilities and a
JCAHO- and AABB-certified laboratory. Lock Haven Hospital has
on staff physicians specializing in vascular surgery, urology,
pediatrics, obstetrics, gynecology, family practice, general surgery,
ophthalmology, cardiology and internal medicine.

Susque-View Home, Inc., is located at 22 Cree Drive next to Lock
Haven Hospital. Susque-View provides inpatient services
involving diagnosed medical care to the elderly, preventative
rehabilitative care and long-term rehabilitative care. Outpatient
treatment for Speech, Physical and Occupational Therapies for
those of all ages is also offered. Rehabilitive services are available
as outpatient services.

Geisinger Medical Group Lock Haven, (955 Bellefonte
Avenue, Lock Haven) is a ten-physician community practice clinic
offering primary care and specialty services. Specialty services
include: Dermatology, Family Practice, Internal Medicine,
Obstetrics & Gynecology, Surgery, Laboratory, Mammography,
Pulmonary Function Testing, Radiology, Stress Testing, and
Ultrasound.

The Meadows of Clinton / Lycoming Counties, Universal
Community Behavioral Health (20 Woodward Avenue, Lock
Haven), provides partial hospitalization program, children and
adolescent programs. Psychiatric outpatient Care is available for all
ages. This facility is not actually located within the City limits but
does provide services to City residents.

- 48 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

ECREATION

The City of Lock Haven has diverse parks and recreation facilities
and programs that include neighborhood parks, mini parks and
other facilities that take advantage of the city's location along the
Susquehanna River. The parks and recreation facilities are operated
and maintained by the City's Recreation Department. The
following is a list of parks and recreation facilities located in the
City of Lock Haven

1. Piper Harmon Playground
Location: East Church and Race Street
Ownership: City
Acreage: 1.0 acre Mini-Park
Piper Harmon was a newly built park in 1993. It was rebuilt
because the "old" Piper Harmon Playground was removed to
allow for the runway of the Piper Airport to be extended. This
occurred because of the dike-levee flood protection project.

2. Memorial Park
Location: Castenea Township along East Water Street
Ownership: City
Acreage: 5.0 acre Neighborhood Park
This site is close to the Susquehanna River and is well suited for
families and special events.

3. Canal Park
Location: Between East Church Street and East Water Street
Ownership: City
Acreage: 3.0 acre neighborhood park/playground
Passive site well suited for a history project or educational
purposes. Established as a tourist site. New sidewalks and the
installation of old main street lights were performed in 1995.

4. Lock Haven City Beach
Location: Between Grove Street and W. Water Street
Ownership: City

Acreage:

1.0 acre special facility

The Beach facility was constructed in 1995 as an accessory use
for the earthen levee. It offers water access, a sand beach, a bath
house, and associated amenities.

5. Veterans Park
Location: Between East Church Street and East Water Street
Ownership: City
Acreage: 2.0 acre neighborhood park/playground
Park was established as a historical interpretive park.

6. Hanna Park
Location: Susquehanna Avenue
Ownership: City
Acreage: 8.0 acre Community Park
Improvements in 1993 include tennis court reconstruction, new
playground equipment, and some asphalt paths in response to
ADA requirements.

7. Triangle Park
Location: W. Main Street and Bellefonte Avenue
Ownership: City
Acreage: 0.75 acre Mini Park
Many older people use the park. The open lawn is used for
many events, including community fund drives and holiday
gatherings. There is also a gazebo in the park.

- 49 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

8. Douglas H. Peddie Memorial Park
Location: Route 120
Ownership: City
Acreage: 70 acre Community Park
The park has expansion restrictions imposed by DEP and the
Public Utilities Commission based on sanitary waste disposal
limitations and the Public Utilities Commission based on the
railroad crossing on the entrance road.

9. Hammermill Park and Ballfield
Location: Between Summit and Pearl Streets at Linden Street
Ownership: City
Acreage: 2.5 acre Neighborhood Park/Playground
Numerous amenities, including ball fields with dug-outs,
concession stands, and playground equipment.

10. Frank L. Taggart Memorial Park
Location: Park Street
Ownership: City
Acreage: 5.7 acre Neighborhood Park
The park serves youth and adult baseball and softball teams.
New ball fields, dug outs and concessions were installed in
1994-95.

11. Kistler Playground
Location: W. Bald Eagle Street
Ownership: Quasi-Public/Keystone Central School District
Acreage: 1.0 acre Mini Park
Even though the park is in a good location, there are few
facilities available.

12. Hoberman Park and Ballfield
Location: E. Park Street
Ownership: City
Acreage: 5.0 acre Neighborhood Park
This park has great potential and is ideal for family outings.
There are numerous amenities, including a ball field with
dugouts, concession stand, Skate Park, and playground.

13. Eberhart Playground
Location: Barton Street
Ownership: City
Acreage: 1.0 acre Mini Park
Half of the area was turned over to the historical society for use
as a community center.

UBLIC

TILITIES AND

ERVICES

· Electric Services: PPL Utilities provides service to the City

residents and has a local office at 109 Rishel Road in
Bellefonte.

· Natural Gas: PPL: Utilities Gas Division distributes natural

gas and maintains a local office in Lock Haven.

· Telephone Service: Verizon provides local phone service.

There are a variety of long distance carriers available to
residents of the County.

· Internet Services: SusCom provides cable modem high speed

internet connections to most areas of the County. Internet
Service is also available through several dial-up providers. The
most popular provider is KCnet with a local office in Lock
Haven. KCnet offers Dial-Up Internet Access, High-Speed
Wireless Internet Access, Computer Repair, Computer Training,
Custom Website and Graphic Design, and Domain Hosting

- 50 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

· Cable Television: Adelphia provides TV cable service.

UBLIC

ATER

The City owns and maintains the watersheds, reservoirs, and water
distribution system for Wayne Township, Castanea Township and
the City. Water from Keller Reservoir is treated at the Central
Clinton County Water Filtration Authority Plant in Wayne
Township. Finished water is then distributed to Wayne Township,
Castanea Township and the City. The filtration plant has the
capability to filter 6 million gallons per day (mgpd). The plant
currently averages 2.5 mgpd. The maximum permitted capacity of
just less than 4 mgpd, is restricted by the drawdown limits on
Keller Reservoir. The City also provides water to Suburban Lock
Haven Water Authority, which provides water to surrounding
communities.

UBLIC

EWER

The City operates a 5.3 million gallon per day sewage treatment
plant providing activated sludge secondary treatment for waste
water from the City. The plant is located at 20 South Hanna Street.
Additionally, the City sewage treatment plant serves 8 upstream
municipalities and treats industrial waste and trucked sewage from
the service area. Served municipalities include: Bald Eagle
Township, Castanea Township, Flemington Borough, Lamar
Township, Mill Hall Borough, Porter Township, Woodward
Township and Walker Township, Centre County.

The sewage treatment plant currently operates at 2.5 million gallons
per day under normal conditions, providing a significant reserve
capacity for growth. However, during rainfall periods the flows
increase considerably due to inflow and infiltration.

Recent improvements provide for bypass management through
storage of peak flows for later treatment. Inflow and infiltration
remain a significant problem and will require consistent
improvement and maintenance programs.

TORM WATER

Within the City, storm water runoff is transported by the City
owned and maintained storm sewers. This system is in excellent
condition, with the majority of the system replaced or upgraded
after the 1972 flood and the construction of the levee.

There are no special protection watersheds or ACT 167 watersheds
within the City. Storm water runoff for new construction is
managed through the Subdivision and Land Development
Ordinance.

The Clinton County Conservation District is actively involved in
the water quality aspects of storm water runoff through the Erosion
and Sedimentation (E&S) plan approval and the National Pollution
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting process.

OLID

ASTE

Household curbside pickup is provided by a variety of local haulers.
Local haulers must be licensed through the City Codes Office in
order to operate within the City.

Lock Haven has free curbside pickup of recyclable materials
every other week. Materials that can be recycled include:
aluminum, glass, paper, plastic, steel, and tin. All of these items
plus corrugated cardboard materials can be dropped off at the
Myrtle Street Drop-off Center.

- 52 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

ITY

DMINISTRATION AND

INANCES

· Administration. The City of Lock Haven has a Council-

Manager form of government. The City Manager is responsible
to oversee the day-to-day operation of the City. The majority of
the City administrative offices are located at 20 East Church
Street.

· Airport. The City operates the William T. Piper Memorial

Airport. Information concerning the Airport is contained in
Transportation Trends and Issues.

· Code Enforcement. The Code Enforcement Department is

located at 20 East Church Street and assists in providing for the
general health, safety and welfare of City businesses and
residents through contractor compliance with building,
plumbing, electrical, health, housing and zoning codes. The
Department makes the necessary inspections to ensure the new
buildings and alterations are constructed in strict conformance
to the Building Codes. A rental property inspection program
was initiated in 1997. The Department also works with the
City's 5-member Zoning Hearing Board, which hears and rules
on all applications for variances from the Zoning Ordinance and
zoning related appeals. The Zoning Officer assists the City
Planner in monitoring and reviewing subdivision and land
development plans.

· Community Development and Planning. This department is

also located at 20 East Church Street and monitors all
subdivision and land development plans in the City and assists
the Lock Haven Planning Commission in the review of land use
regulations. All plans for land development must be submitted
to the Zoning Officer, where the review process begins. The
Lock Haven Planning Commission, which is comprised of a
nine member board, is ultimately responsible for final action to

approve or deny plans. This department is also responsible for
the administration of the Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) Program and various other federal and state funded
programs

· Engineering. The Engineering Department is located at 20

East Church Street and consists of the City Engineer and a
draftsman. This department maintains all mapping records,
property deeds and tax maps for properties located within the
City. The Engineering Department maintains plans and
mapping of all City facilities and systems including water,
sanitary sewer, streets and storm sewer systems. The
department provides in-house engineering services for all City
departments from project design through construction and
contract administration. The department also solicits and
administers contracts for studies and design work performed by
outside consultants and provides operating assistance to all City
departments.

· Finance and Accounting. This department, located at 20 East

Church Street, provides a wide variety of services for the City.
Among the most visible to local businesses are the billing and
collection of property and occupational privilege taxes,
mercantile/business privilege taxes, license fees and water and
sewer rents. All funds collected by the police and through
airport operations also flow through this office. The Treasurer
handles all collection of revenues, payroll, and accounts
payable.

· Fire Department. The Fire Department is made up of three

volunteer companies; Citizens, Hand-in-Hand, and Hope Hose.
The Fire Chief for Hand-in-Hand is also the City Fire
Administrator. Additional information regarding the fire
companies is contained in Community Facilities and Services.

- 53 -

Chapter 2 The City of Lock Haven Today

· Police Department. The Police Department is located at 20

East Church Street. Additional information regarding the Police
Department is contained in Community Facilities and Services.

· Public Works. The Public Works Department is staffed by 12

employees and provides numerous services including snow
removal, street maintenance and street sweeping, city sign
maintenance and installation, levee maintenance, maintenance
of the city's sewer and water systems and maintenance of all
city parks and recreation facilities. The Public Works
Department is comprised of 4 separate and distinct departments
as follows:

· Flood Protection. The Flood Protection office is located

at 20 East Church Street. The City maintains
approximately 6.5 miles of earth levee that consists of 38
drainage structures, 5 closure structures, 1 sanitary
pumping station, 5 ponding areas and several recreation
areas. The construction of the levee was completed in
1994 at a cost of $84.3 million.

· Sewer. The City's Sewer Department is located on Hanna

Street. The Department maintains 37 miles of sanitary
sewers and operates a sewage treatment plant. Additional
information regarding the public sewer is provided above.

· Streets. The City's Street Department is located at Park

and Walnut Streets and is responsible for maintaining 34.8
miles of City streets and 16 miles of storm sewers.

· Water. The City Water Department is located at 20 East

Church Street. Additional information regarding public
water is provided above

· Recreation Department. The City maintains 14 municipal

parks and playgrounds and river front beach. Information on

these parks is contained above. The Recreation Department is
under the direction of a part time recreation director. The City
also maintains over 100 acres of parks and playgrounds that
accommodate Pony League baseball, Little League baseball,
Junior League baseball, Youth Girls Softball, and Adult
Softball.

· The City of Lock Haven Recreation Department in

conjunction with Keystone Central School District
sponsors the summer recreation program at 4 city parks
and playgrounds. A skate park was added to Hoberman
Park this year.

Figure 13

2004 GENERAL FUND BUDGET

Administration

20.2%

Code Enf orcement

6.8%

Police Department

36.3%

Engineering

1.4%

Finance & Accounting

7.9%

Fire Department

7.7%

Community Development &

Planning

0.3%

Public Works

15.9%

Recreation

3.4%

- 54 -

Chapter 3 The City of Lock Haven's Central Business District

LOCK HAVEN'S CENTRAL

LOCK HAVEN'S CENTRAL BUSINESS

BUSINESS

DISTRICT

An inventory of land use, occupancy, and building condition was
prepared for the Central Business District of Lock Haven. The
Central Business District encompasses approximately 12 blocks of
the downtown area and is illustrated in Figure 14. It generally
extends from First Street east to the canal park and from Water
Street south to Church Street, as well as the southwest triangle
formed by Bellefonte Avenue, North Liberty Street, and the
railroad. This district is the financial and service center of Clinton
County, as well as the site of County and City government
activities.

Bellefonte Avenue at Triangle Park

- 56 -

Chapter 3 The Central Business District

The properties in this area were visually surveyed for their
occupancy status, primary use, and general condition in August
2003. Because this information is based on a visual survey, only
exterior conditions were used for the process of evaluation. The
presence of fans or air conditioners in windows was interpreted as
an indication of occupancy, since the survey was performed in mid-
summer. The presence of closed curtains in an empty storefront
window was interpreted as an indication of vacancy. Building style
and materials were referenced in estimating building age. Building
walls, porches, eaves, gutters and spouting, doors, windows,
door/window frames were observed in making the survey
determinations. Lot maintenance, as well as the presence of litter,
graffiti or vandalism, was considered under the property
maintenance category. Streetscape conditions were also noted in the
context of entire blocks. Table 18 provides descriptions of the
various features and their components evaluated in the visual
survey.

Results of the visual survey indicate the following conditions for
the central business district:

· Few properties are available for sale or lease.

· Most properties appear to be occupied.

· More properties appear to be vacant than are available.

· The majority of buildings were constructed prior to 1940.

· Two and three story buildings are most common.

· Buildings are generally maintained in good condition.

· Many buildings in the district support multiple uses.

· Office services and residential uses are the most common

first floor uses in the district

· Residential is the most common and nearly exclusive use

of upper floors.

· Property maintenance is generally good.

· Signage is inconsistent; many properties lack lot number

identification.

· Streetscape conditions are good to fair.

ANALYSIS

Of the properties surveyed, seventeen properties or six percent were
clearly available for sale or lease (August, 2003). Of the for sale
properties, one was a residence, two were office spaces, and the
remainder were retail properties. Of the for lease properties, all
were retail sales of office service spaces.

Occupancy was observed as a secondary indication of property
availability. The vast majority of properties in the district appeared
to be occupied at the time of the survey, based on the
abovementioned interpretation. First floor vacancies were more
abundant that upper floor vacancies. First floor vacancies were
observed for 32 properties or 12 percent of the district. Upper floor
vacancies totaled 10 properties or 4 percent of the district. Several
blocks contained numerous vacant buildings or spaces within a
single building, namely the 200 block of East Water Street, the 200
block of East Main Street, and Corning Street. Moreover, the
Corning Street properties were in need of significant rehabilitation,
including complete door and window replacement, for potential
future use.

Comparing properties marked for sale or for lease to those
appearing to be vacant shows that there are an additional 23

- 57 -

Chapter 3 The Central Business District

properties (8 percent) that appear vacant though they aren't marked
for sale or lease. This condition detracts from the image of the
district as a viable place to do business for current and future
business owners.

Building age and number of floors were additional features
surveyed. Building age was estimated to the nearest decade or two-
decade period. Since Lock Haven's central business district was
originally developed throughout the late 19

and early 20

centuries, the majority of buildings (66 percent) were constructed
prior to 1940. Another 13 percent were constructed between 1940
and 1970. Only 6 percent have been built since 1980.

Table 18 - Building Survey Analysis for Lock Haven Central Business District

(August, 2003)

Total Properties

Good

Fair

Poor

N/A

Availability

For Sale

For Lease

Vacancy

First floor

Upper floors

Structure

No structure

1 floor

2 floors

119

3 floors

Number of Floors

4+ floors