Monticello Crossroads scenic byway : corridor management plan : Georgia scenic byway

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GEORGIA SCENIC BY\VAY

A. INTRODUCTION
Background and Public Input Process
Jasper County is a scenic and historic gem located in the heartland of middle Georgia. This area of gently rolling hills, sweeping valleys and broad summits provides a cherished quality of life for its residents and a growing economic resource as more and more visitors make the countryside and historic towns their destination.
Growth and land use have long been areas of concern in Jasper County, Georgia. While the progress growth brings is desirable, many citizens realized that the quality oflife enjoyed by this community might be compromised ifnot protected and enhanced. Also, the quality oflife and rural character ofthe region have started to provide economic development through tourism. In 1996, the Monticello City Council contacted the Georgia DOT concerning protection for the scenic highways leading to this historically important city. Subsequently, the Scenic Byway Program was initiated at DOT and . assisted the local committee and community in preparing the nominations for State Highways 11 and 83. This nomination, along with adjustments to local development regulations and land use plans, will help preserve the scenic and historic nature ofthese highways and help Jasper County in promoting tourism.
Since beginning work on this Corridor Management Plan, Monticello has been designated as a Georgia Better Hometown by the Georgia Department ofCommunity Affairs-a process that involved broad-based, community-wide strategic planning. During the same period, Jasper County updated its a ten year land use map. The Scenic Byway nomination was broadly discussed with committees working on both Better Hometown initiatives and the county and city's comprehensive plan update and received tremendous community involvement and support from both groups. Indeed, about 2% of Jasper County's total population have had direct involvement in this project with many more being informed through coverage in the local newspaper and newsletters.(See newspaper article in Appendix.)
While the Department of Transportation did not require the individual written notification of all property owners along the byway regarding the proposed designation, affected billboard companies and property owners who leased land for billboards were notified in writing. Certification of this is provided in the appendix.
The following organizations and interested parties participated in the discussions that lett to the application:
Jasper County Board of Commissioners City ofMonticello City ofShady Dale Jasper County Scenic Byway Committee

Historic Resources

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Jasper Roads
City Route County Route Private Route Public .Route state Route Unknown Water Railroad Interstates City
s

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uee ce r p r icn

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1 Dows Pulp it - Hi sto r ical Harke r

2 Seven Islands Stagecoach Road

3 Issal Park er Inn Tabl e t Ha r ke r

4 Seven Islands Indian T r ai l

5 Th e Cltv o f Mon t ice ll o

,

Sa Entire city on Nati onal Reqiste r

5b Mc n t i ce! !. Di s t rict School

Sc His t o r ic Cou r t h ou s e

5d Hi s toric SquaJ:e , Mon ume nt

5. Hi storic Homes Di st r i c t s

Sf Site of Inn - His t o rica l Marker

6 St age coach S t op

7 Ol d s t a a ecoach Ro ute - Hi s torical Kaz:t.e r

8 Pr ov i de nce Baptis t Church - Hi st ori c al Ha r t e r

9 Sbe tmans Ka r ch t o the Sea Rout e

10 Bethel St op Stagec oach Stop

11 Sh e cnans Kat: ch to the Sea Ro u t e - Hi sto ric Ka t:l:e r

1 2 Con c ord Ch urch Stag ecoach Stop - Hist o ric Kart er

13 Hill Run

14 oanu lge e Ri ve r

1 5 Jackson Sprinqs - Histori c al Ha r t er

1 6 The Sto n eman Raid - Hi storical Hart e r

1 7 Bi r t hp l a c e o f Be n j amin Harvey Hill - Histor i c Mal:t.e r

18 ACl:OSS t h e Oanulgee - H1s tol: ic Ha r t e l:

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Georgia Scenic Byway Project Development Authority ofJasper County Monticello-Jasper County Chamber ofCommerce Monticello Better Hometown Program Monticello Downtown Development Authority Monticello Garden Club Monticello Kiwanis Club U. S. Forest Service Georgia Department of Community Affairs Georgia Department ofIndustry Trade and Tourism Jasper County Future Land Use Committee Jasper County Zoning Office City ofMonticello Zoning Office
Many interested individuals also participated in discussions at the three public meetings held to prepare the Corridor Management Plan. The meetings were advertisedin the local paper and through Chamber of Commerce flyers. The local paper also ran an article
on the Scenic Byway Program. (See Appendix.) As mentioned, the proposal was also extensively discussed in conjunction with the Jasper County Future Land Use Plan .
Committee and the Scenic Byway route was adopted as part ofthe Jasper County Land Use Plan and presented to the Jasper County Board of Commissioners in December, 1998.
An application for consideration of a Scenic Byway designation wasprepared and
approved by the three local governments with jurisdiction- Jasper County, the City of Shady Dale and the City ofMonticello. A Georgia DOT team visited the proposed byways and, following their recommendations a revised application was approved by the DOT on October 9, 1998. A:final public meeting was held on January 7, 1999 to present the revised Corridor Management Plan. This current revision to the Corridor Management plan reflects additional recommendations from DOT's new byway consultants, as well as ideas coming from an additional strategy session facilitated by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and attended by representatives from DOT, the City ofMansfield, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the University of Georgia's Institute ofEcology and Law.

Proposed Routes

The Monticello Crossroads Scenic Byway consists oftwo highways, Georgia 11 and

Georgia 83 starting at the northern borders ofJasper County, crossing at the City of

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Monticello Square, and continuing to the southern city limits ofMonticello and from

there up Highway 83 through the historic town of Shady Dale. The "U" shaped 40 mile

route is currently mostly rural and zoned agricultural and residential. The community has

determined its greatest asset is this ruraI character and plans to exploit its tourism

potential.

Vision
The community's vision for the Byway is to preserve the rural character ofthese roads while opening the tourism potential ofthis serene area so close to three majorGeorgia urban areas, Atlanta, Macon and Athens.
Our intention is not to completely halt development along the byway, but to ensure that landowners make wise choices-including high quality design and land uses that preserve the scenic and environmental qualities ofthe corridor. There must be widespread support for and recognition ofthe benefits ofenhancing the Byway's potential as a regional tourist attraction. Achieving this goal will involve a strategy that combines public education, a range of housing programs and financial incentives targeted at property owners and carefully considered regulatory tools designed to minimize the visual-impact of growth on the corridor.
A list ofvision statements gathered from the public meetings include:
Protect the natural beauty Maintain rural character Plan gateways for Monticello Educate the community to promote the Byway Provide for buffers along the Byway Complete the Perimeter Truck Route Have protection for Byway like historic districts Form a Byway Commission Complete a driving brochure Build a Welcome Center Have a web ofcounty roads connected to the Byway
The Role of the Byway Commission
Successful realization ofthe community's vision for the Monticello Crossroads Scenic Byway will require creation of a local entity that can provide focus and continuity to the many projects envisioned. While elected officials will remain heavily involved in the various byway initiatives, creating a Byway Commission will give the Byway a more distinct community identity, provide a sounding board and political buffer for public reactions to the Byway initiative and ensure detailed project management regardless of changes in local government elections and staff.
Members will include:

a byway's property owner appointed by the Jasper County Commission member from each participating community's planning! zoning board member from the Historic Preservation Commission member from the Jasper/ Monticello Chamber of Commerce member from the Jasper County Economic Development Authority ad hoc representatives invited to attend from byway gateway communities such as
Social Circle, Newton County and Mansfield.
Because the work program proposed is so complex, intensive, and time-sensitive the commission needs to be staffed by a part-time paid program coordinator within the first six months of operation. Grant funding will be sought to help fund this assistance. While someone from the community might be hired, an alternative would be to contract with a planning consulting firm for a certain number of staffhours per month.
Responsibilities of the Scenic Byway Commission
Implement the corridor management plan; Serve as a clearinghouse and public education provider for all corridor-related
initiatives; Advise local planning and zoning boards on corridor issues; Assist local governments in administering Byway related grants; Oversee staffing and maintenance'ofMonticello Crossroads Scenic Byway Trailhead
Center for visitors (open 40 hrs per week); Promote regional tourism efforts, and working with gateway communities, sell the
importance ofthe Byway as a regional asset and seek regional grant funding to carry out byway initiatives; Maintain corridor web site; Work with local Chambers on festivals, bike and run, and other events to publicize the byway; Serve as an early warning system to monitor the corridor for changes (i.e. land ownership, development permits, inappropriate land clearing; Help local governments set priorities for land acquisition and public investments in corridor enhancements; Under proposed new development regulations, review and render findings on all major development proposals within the corridor management zone, including any infrastructure extension proposals; In collaboration with the locai KAB chapter, monitor and mitigate litter along the byway; Spearhead negotiations with property owners on billboard removal and conservation, easements form a local land trust and/or identify a state non-profit to hold conservation easements; Oversee design and installation of bike trails, corridor landscaping, wildflower program; Promote the creation of a Jasper Co. Scenic Byway network emanating from the

trailhead center and anchoring tourism attractions in close proximity to the byway; Provide access to small business resources to property owners cooperating with the
Byway goals and objectives.
Local governments participating in the byway application are concerned that sprawl and inappropriate development at the gateways to the bypass between both ends ofthe Byway and 1-20 could discourage exploration ofthe Byway by visitors. One ofthe primary goals ofthe Byway Commission will be to work with neighboring jurisdictions to coordinate land uses, signage and development proposals that protect the gateways to the Monticello Crossroads Scenic Byway. The ideal scenario would be to eventually revise the byway designation to extend at least through the City ofMansfield on Hwy. 11 and perhaps further along both roads into areas ofNewton County that still remain rural in character. Ifthis were to occur, these governments would appoint members to the Byway Commission. However, even ifthe Byway is not formally extended, much can be done to coordinate rural heritage tourism efforts at the regional level" beginning with inviting Social Circle, Newton County and the City ofMansfield to appoint ad hoc representatives to attend Byway Commission meetings.
B. EXISTING CONDITIONS
Condition of Roads
State Highway 11 and State Highway 83 are under the jurisdiction ofthe Georgia Department ofTransportation. However, Georgia DOT assumes no financial or other legal responsibilities as a result ofthese roads being designated a scenic byway.
The road surface and rights-of-way are currently in excellent condition. Although the shoulders ofthe highways are not particularly wide, highway 11 is built on a 60-foot right-of-way that allows tree-shaded tunnels at several locations.
Two DOT projects (pI#231730 and #p23I730) currently have the potential to impact the Byway either positively or negatively depending on design 'factors. The first proposal (pI#23 1730) callsfor adding a passing lane for 1.7 miles near Murder Creek. No funding has currently been set aside for this' project. Any action on PI#23 1730 is scheduled at least four years in the future. Thus there should be plenty of time to coordinate the project with the other long-term projects included in the Corridor Management Plan.
The second project intersecting the Byway is the Monticello truck route/bypass. It is being funded through the DOT Commissioner's office and is a short-term project now entering the environmental' review phase. Construction is expected to commence by the year 2000. DOT's regional office in Tennile has been contacted and will meet with the
Byway Commission to discuss project details. Current plans call for an at-grade '1"
intersection. Since very little state money is.available for landscaping, the DOT Regional Office has recommended including landscaping and trail access at this intersection be

included in a future ScenicBywayDiscretionary Grant.

Traffic.along the road is currentlylight to moderate and no major safetyissues exist. Minimizationoffuture driveways and curb cuts is an issue of concernto Byway advocates. DOT has been queriedas to whetherit can impose special access limitations or design requirements for curb cuts or require specificegress lane designs on State ScenicByways that might conceivably be more restrictive than on other state roads. The community is awaiting an answer to this question and will considerthe answerin revising byway land development regulations.

Maintenanceissues on the road, suchas trash pick-up, grasscutting, etc. have been

discussed. at countymeetings. The corridoris relativelyclean oftrash, but as it becomes

a more recognized tourist attraction it will become even more important to keep it pristine

at all times. Plans call for enhancing the Adopt-a-Mile program. The Byway

Commissionwill.also arrangefor a "SWAT team" to be called out in case of'trash spills

and the public will be able to report littering either by callingthe Commission or via the

Byway's website.

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There are also someisolated sites alongthe byway that could benefit fromvisual screeningwith plantings or enhancement with wildflowers.

D. INVENTORY OF INTRINSIC QUALITIES
Note: Detailed location ojscenic, natural, historic andrecreationalfeatures along the
byway will be provided on the GIS map which will be inserted in Appendix A. The Georgia Department ofCommunity Affairs has agreed to help generate this mapping tool, which will be completedforwarded to DOT by the endofJune, 1999.
Scenic Qualities
North Jasper County, where both scenic byways originate,is an area ofrural beautywith woodlands, pasture lands and historicfarmhouses around everycurve. Entering Jasper Countyon Ga. Highway11 S. the driveris surrounded by rollinggrasslands, reminiscent ofIreland, that is part ofthe 2200 acre CharlieElliot Wildlife Center. The roadway passes through tree-shaded tunnels, pastureland, tree farms, statelyhouses, historic churches, pecan groves and abandoned countrystores, Highway 83 S. contains scenes of unsurpassedpastoral beauty with high and low lakesnestledin the rolling pastureland framed by forests alongthe edges. Both roads crest several hills with vistas ofthe countrysidestretchingout to the horizon.
Preservation and Enhancement Strategies:
To preserve and enhancethe scenic intrinsic qualities ofthe ScenicByway the

Monticello Crossroads Scenic Byway Commission will have to address the following issues with the local governing agencies:
Review zoning and land development regulations to promote cluster and add planned unit development alternatives to discourage "cookie cutter" housing developments;
Consider creating a corridor overlay-zoning district that would require a higher level of design review along the corridor and possibly official review and approval ofdevelopment proposals by the Byway Commission!
Encourage and promote best management timber practices to leave appropriate buffer on Byway;
Update sign ordinances to ban billboards and off premise signs and .setreasonable
standards for on premise signage; Negotiate buy-out ofexisting billboards; Work with DOT to minimize scenic impact ofroad widening and new
intersections on Byway; Establish a wildflower planting program; Develop and implement a landscape masterplan for the corridor aimed at
preserving historic tree plantings such as orchards and ornamental plantings planting a diverse range of native species and screening development that distracts from the overall rural character ofthe Byway.
Natural Qualities
Jasper County is located in the central part of Georgia and the Piedmont region. The rolling land has low ridges and moderate slopes. All waterways that flow through the county originate in the county. This watershed is a pure and valuable resource that must be protected.
Oak and pine forests originally covered most ofthe county. Small parts ofthe original forest are still seen around the oldest homesteads and a large tract is in the Murder Creek wetland area along Highway 83. The diverse natural qualities ofthe land support a huge number ofwildlife including, deer, wild turkey, geese, raccoon, skunk, bobcat, and a
large number ofpredator fowl In particular, the Red Cockaded Woodpecker Is known to
inhabit areas along the Byway.
Although to protect them animal habitat and endangered species sightings are typically
not show on public maps, these areas will be inventoried with the assistance ofthe Georgia Department ofNatural Resources. DNR will be consulted about wildlife
preservation strategies and asked to make recommendations for priority conservation areas and means ofencouraging natural diversity along the Corridor.
Preservation and Enhancement Strategies:
To preserve and enhance the natural qualities ofthe Byway will require the commission to:

Complete and map a more intensive inventory of sensitive lands such as wetlands, flood plains, wildlife habitats and unique ecosystems and address protection of these areas in all participating governments' Comprehensive Plans and development regulations;
Work with the Jasper County Water and Sewer Authority to protect the watersheds on the Byway;
Develop and promote nature preserves and bird trails throughout the Byway, including planting native plant materials that will attract birds, butterflies and other species to viewing areas along the corridor; and
. . Work with DNR on a wildlife habitat protection strategy for the Byway including indentifying natural areas used for wildlife breeding and foraging and ensuring that these are connected by protected migration corridors.

Historic Qualities

Georgia Highways II and 83 loosely follow the paths of old Native American, pioneer and Methodist Circuit Rider routes. Indeed, on Highway 11 N. there is a large boulder named Dow's Pulpit for the famous Methodist evangelist that used the rock for a worship platform. Highway 83 crosses and follows the Seven Island Stage Coach Road which connected Augusta to Mobile, New Orleans and the Natchez Trace. Highway 83 also bisects the historic town ofShady Dale and the small community ofMachen. Jasper County is currently pursuing National Register listing for the Seven Island Road.
Both Highways eventually climb the "little hill" where Monticello is located and make up halfofthe four highways that come together at the historic Square. This important central Georgia crossroads is dedicated to the historic preservation of its residential and downtown areas. The City ofMonticello was recognized for its beauty and efforts in historic preservation by being listed on the National Register ofHistoric places in 1997. Four individual structures listed on the register are visible from the Scenic Byway; the Monticello Civic Center, the Jasper County Courthouse, the Monticello Presbyterian Church and the Jordan Bellew House.

The Central Business District enjoys local designation as well as the Forsyth Street District on Highway 83 S and the Eatonton Street Area District on Highway 11 S. (See Appendix for additional information on the county's historic resources.)

While this plan highlights some ofthe most well-known historic resources associated

with the Byway, all significant historic sites within three miles ofthe byway will be

inventoried by the year 2000 and located on the GIS Corridor Management Map. These

attractions will also be used in marketing the Byway to visitors.

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Preservation and Enhancement Strategies:

To preserve and enhance the historic qualities ofthe Scenic Byway will require the

Commission to address these following issues:
Encourage the formation of a Jasper County Historic Commission or expand the present Monticello Historic Commission to cover the entire county;
Adopt county-wide historic preservation plan and ordinance; Conduct additional inventory research into the major and more obscure historic
sites as a basis for interpretive materials and programs; Create a property improvement facade grant program for historic structures on the
Byway; Educate through workshops the benefits oftax incentives to owners ofhistoric
property; and Work with Jasper County Public Works to monitor trash pick-up and mowing
along routes.
Recreational Qualities
Highways 11 and 83 pass through areas of great recreational possibilities including state and federal park and forest land that is open for fishing, hunting and special activities for children and the disabled. Bicycling is a growing sport on these roads and just driving the road is a pleasurable recreational experience. A trailhead-Welcome Genter is presently being planned in the center ofMonticello that would serve as a museum, planning and rest stop for Scenic Byway visitors. The Benton Building, probably the most imposing architecture represented on the Monticello town square, is being restored to accommodate these uses. The citizens ofMonticello have already demonstrated a significant commitment to this project by approving a 2.1 million-dollar bond issue to help renovate the building. This will be supplemented by a TEA-21 grant and, hopefully, assistance from the Scenic Byway Discretionary Grant program. Government offices will be housed upstairs; the trailhead center will occupy the first floor and open onto a pleasant, shady outdoor courtyard in the interior ofthe block.
A high-tech interactive interpretive exhibit will feature attractions to be found along the byway and show city and county trails and historic tours and other regional attractions. In addition the facility will provide public meeting space, a parking and public restroom facilities to serve bikers and hikers and motorists. The facility will be designed to accommodate larger groups such as BRAG (Bicycle Ride Across Georgia) and equestrian groups that will organize annual events utilizing the proposed local and regional trail system.
Not all ofthe amenities and attractions along the Byway will be provided by the public --sector. As part of a regional eco-tourism strategy, some investments to be encouraged
along the corridor and in the participating towns would include roadside attractions such
as bed and breakfast facilities, camp grounds, gift shops, folk art galleries, equestrian and livery stables, hunting clubs, outdoor outfitters, plant nurseries, fruit and vegetable stands, restaurants, etc. Special focus will be placed on saving and reusing deteriorating historic structures for commercial ventures. There has also been discussion of a Trisha

Yearwood museum to be located near Monticello. The Byway Commission will work with local Chambers of Commerce to encourage financial capacity building for local entrepreneurs. Programs such as Small Business Administration and USDA MicroIncentive Loans will be publicized to property owners in participating towns and along the Byway.

To preserve and enhance the recreational qualities ofthe Scenic Byway will require the

Commission to address these issues:

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Improve Jasper County entrances to recreational sites including the Charlie Elliot Wildlife Center, Rodeo, and Jackson Lake;
Promote and develop bicycling, equestrian, hiking and birding trails along the byway as well as adequate camping facilities;
Inform and educate private sector investors about the kinds ofrecreational attractions communities wish to attract along the byway as well as the sorts of development deemed inappropriate;
encourage non-invasive, tourism- related small business along the Byway Provide a wide range offinancial tools and job creation incentives to private
sector entrepreneurs; and Acquire and develop land for Seven Island Road Park at Smith's Mill crossing
on the Ocmulgee River.

CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT ISSUES
The Monticello Crossroads Scenic Byway has been created following the desire ofthe people in Jasper county to maintain the rural atmosphere and quality oflife that may be endangered by unplanned growth and development. Our vision is that public transport and natural, scenic and historic beauty have coexisted on these roads for hundreds of years and can continue to do so with the proper planning and protection. The following section summarizes management issues that will be addressed primarily through the mechanism ofthe Bypass Commission.

Future Road Projects
This Corridor Management Plan calls for all.future road projects along the Byway to be reviewed and approved by the Byways Commission and constructed using the alternate highway design standards established in the Federal Highway Administration's
publication, Flexibility in Highway Design.
Sign Standards and Building Improvements
No single issue is as critical to preserving thescenic and rural character ofthe Byway as control of outdoor advertising. The community acknowledges that designation ofthe route as a scenic byway will subject the route to certain federal restrictions on outdoor

advertising. Jasper County's current zoIiing specifically prohibits billboards from all areas designated for residential and/or agricultural uses. In anticipation ofparticipating in the byway program, the City of Shadydale has also banned billboards. Monticello is following suit by taking a comprehensive look at its sign regulations. The Monticello Crossroads Scenic Byway does pass through downtown Shady Dale and Monticello. These cities have existing commercial zoning districts that contain important historic resources. The community does not intend to segment out these areas, but instead will workto refine graphics and sign standards to enhance the overall Byway driving experience. To be truly effective, sign controls in commercial and more urban parts ofthe byway will need to address not only billboards but all on and off-premise advertising as well as temporary signs, banners, etc.
The Byway Commission will serve as a forum for promoting fair, consistent sign regulations along the byway and even at its gateways at 1-20. Discretionary grants will be sought in the year 2000 to assist local governments in amending any over-permissive ordinances and buying out the two existing billboards on the corridor.
In addition, participating communities have secured the services of a partnership between the University of Georgia's School ofEnvironmental Design and the Department of Community Affairs to provide private property owners with free design consulting services. Owners wishing to improve the visual appearance oftheir properties and businesses have free access to facade drawings. Consultations are also available regarding adaptive reuse of historic structures. The Commission will work toward developing a multi-government facade matching grant or revolving loan program to help property owners fix up and landscape their homes and businesses.
The community will work with the Georgia DOT toplace scenic byway signs along the route. The community also requests that byway signs be placed on Interstate 20 at exits. 47 and 50 to direct tourists to the Byway. .

Land Use and Development Issues

Comprehensive Plan Linkages

The citizen's committees working on the Monticello Crossroads Scenic Byway have

already accomplished one important goal for maintaining the rural nature ofthe byway

by getting the.route designated on the Jasper County Future Land Use Map, a required

element ofall local Comprehensive Plans under Georgia's Minimum Standards for Local

Comprehensive Planning.Comprehensive plans form the legal support-for local

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development ordinances and provide the day-to-day guidance system for local

government decision making in Georgia.

The Jasper Year 2010 Comprehensive Plan text also establishes policy regarding the Byway. Under Land Use Needs Assessment: Policies and Goals is the following statement:

To protect Scenic Byways, development should be designed andproperly sited to complement the Scenic Byways. Preserving the rural character ofJasper County is paramount to county residents. While growth is needed and anticipated, it should not be at the expense ofthe quality oflife. Strip commercial development shouldbe avoided Use ofaccess roads should be encouraged and development should be adequately bufferedfrom the road so not to negatively impact Jasper County's rural character. Commercial development should be clustered
Once the actual viewshed boundaries are defined using GIS 3D modeling a more accurate overlay district can be designated and for the byway route and proposed trail and conservation areas will also be incorporated on the City of Shady Dale and the City of Monticello's Future Land Use Maps when these are updated next year. Areas that are currently zoned agricultural, but shown on the 20 year planning horizon to be converted to residential uses will be particularly scrutinized ifthey fall within the Byway's viewshed. Whether to create an overlay zone, a special byway zoning district or handle development guidelines under PUD designation will be the subject of a special study undertaken by the Byway Commission in collaboration with all participating government's planning commissions.
As the Corridor Management Plan matures and evolves, and as additional goals and tasks are identified by the Byways Commission, these tasks will be incorporated into the local plans of all participating cities and counties. This will give Byway standards official standing and help make funding for future initiatives part ofthe regular capital budgeting process that cities and counties engage in annually. A major advantage of incorporating byway information into local plans will be to ensure that public infrastructure investments support rather that work against Byway goals and objectives.
Current Zoning and Development Regulations
The majority ofthe non-urban areas adjacent to and surrounding the Scenic Byway are zoned for Agricultural uses. Minimum lot size in this zoning is five acres per house. Some portions ofthe Byway are currently zoned for low to medium density residential development, the lack ofinfrastructure, notably sewer and water service, is likely to result in relatively low population density along the corridor in the short term. Unfortunately large lot zoning alone will not preserve rural character. On the outskirts of the Byway, 4000 square foot Georgian town houses are cropping up along the roadway in former pasturelands. Ifdevelopment pressures continue to increase as projected under the current development regulations, individual driveway cuts could create traffic congestion on the corridor.
While incorporating Byway initiative in local comprehensive plans is an important first step in protecting rural character, planning must result in 1) modifications to various development regulations and 2). successful implementation ofpublic education programs to ensure adequate protection to the Byway resources.

The Byway Commission will also work with other governments in the region to negotiate a "level playing field" on development standards along highways 11 and 83, even beyond the formal boundaries of the Bypass. It is hoped that the potential to receive state Regional Assistance Grants for regional tourism efforts will motivate other governments to adopt similar land use and sign regulations.
The Commission will make voluntary design guidelines and technical assistance available to property owners and developers beginning immediately, but the long-range
solution will likely have a regulatory component. While it is anticipated that the affected
local governments will be open to updating and refining local development ordinances, some matching funds from Byway Discretionary Grants or other non-local sources will be needed to help defray the cost of amending and improving local zoning and subdivision ordinances.
On a positive note, about 700Al ofthe land along the corridor is currently protected by some form of agricultural easement-usually related to timber production. These are not perpetual easements, however; they lapse at various times One ofthe most pressing tasks to be undertaken by the Byways Commission will be to research these easements and determine which parcels along the corridor are most imminently threatened by subdivision development. After determining which areas are most likely to be affected by development, as well as which areas have the highest scenic and historic value, the Commission will seek grant funding to protect priority areas with conservation easements. There has been some discussion of contracting with UGA's Institute of Ecology and Law to negotiate easements with property owners and draft flexible agreements built around individual owner's financial goals and commitment to preserving their land. In a minority of cases some land may have to be acquired to protect it.
Tourism and Economic Development
Tourism is the second largest industry is Georgia and is a great part ofthe future economic development ofhistoric and scenic Jasper County. The City ofMonticello is already on the National Register ofHistoric Places and the Monticello Historic Preservation Commission monitors the local districts in place along the routes. Jasper County is beginning the process ofhaving county historic districts and a Jasper County Historic Commission. This will add to the protection and promotion ofhistoric and tourist sites along the routes including the Charlie Elliot Wildlife Center and Dow's Pulpit.
The primary gateways connecting the byway to 1-20 run through the jurisdictions of Newton and Walton Counties and Mansfield from Hwy 11 and Morgan County from Hwy 83. Incompatible or insensitive development along these gateways would likely reduce the tourism potential ofthe byway and establish a bad first impression ofthe byway. North on 20 the City of Social Circle has expressed interest in a joint

tourism/marketing strategy focused on "smart growth" principals and adaptive reuse of historic assets. A primary activity ofthe Commission would be to set up facilitated meetings with these adjacent governments to promote compatible development regulations, signage standards and a regionally coordinated tourism and marketing strategy. Several restaurants, a winery and other potential tourist attractions are on these connecting routes. It is hoped that by joining with these governments to seek state tourism funding (in particular, a Regional Assistance Program from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs), a coalition for quality growth can be formed.
Along the actual byway there are several major tourist attractions, including the Charlie Elliot Wildlife Center the Dow's Pulpit Preaching Rock and the Stagecoach Road. In order the increase public awareness oftourism activities and to foster rural tourism development a critical mass oftourist destinations must be created. Shadydale Rodeo, the largest rodeo east of the Mississippi attracts 12,000 each year and the Deer Festival in Monticello attracts about 5000 visitors to the town square.
As stated earlier in this plan, a welcome Center and Scenic Byway Trailhead Center is proposed for the Monticello Government Complex now being renovated in the former Benton Supply Building on the Square in Monticello. This Will also be the site for tourist information and maps ofnot only the Monticello Crossroads Scenic Byway, but also the Jasper County Scenic Byway System now under review and development. In the long term, it may also prove beneficial to create tourist welcome stops or rest areas closer to each end ofthe byway.
Access to state funding and cooperation from other governments will be increased by seeing the Bypass in the context of a regional economic development strategy. The Byways Commission will provide a means of coordinating the efforts oflocal Chambers, Recreation Departments and non-profit organizations to market this incredible rural resource.
IMPLEMENTATION TIMETABLE
In order to address the numerous goals and projects discussed in this corridor management plan; the plan concludes with an implementation timetable. (See Appendix A) This timetable prioritizes tasks described herein and sets forth proposed start and finish dates, responsible parties, estimated costs and potential funding sources. While real world events (such as failure to obtain grant funding) may affect the actual implementation schedule this spreadsheet will provide work program guidance to the Byway Commission and other project participants. It will be regularly updated and sent: out to elected officials and interested parties as events unfold.
CONCLUSION
The citizens ofJasper County have united over the proposed Monticello Crossroads Scenic Byway and have already taken steps to protect this valuable resource. Th~ local
r'

governments have strongly supported the routes through zoning and the Future Land Use Plans. The designation ofthe route and the yearly DOT review will act as a catalyst to gauge the direction and purpose behind the local covenants.
The Monticello Crossroads Scenic Byway will be a shining example of cooperation on a local, regional and state level working to fulfill the wishes ofthe people ofJasper County and the State of Georgia through this important project. Hopefully, this will inspire other counties and cities to work together to protect and promote their scenic roads and other areas that add to their community's special quality of life.

APPENDIX A Monticello Crossroads Scenic Byway CMP Implementation Timetable

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Task Descri tion

1 Work with ROC historic preservation planners onmore

complete inventory and

InteljJretation ofhistoric and

archeological features along the

byway.

Funding Sources Local Development Fund GranVDCA

Estimated Total Cost

2 Complete inventory ofscenic
views and vistas and 3dmodeling 01 corridor viewshed area and add toGIS map.

3 Appoint multi-government Byway County Commission/City

Commission

Councils

4 Apply forScenic Byway

City of Monticello

Discretionary Funds todevelop a

trail system along the byway and complete Trailhead Center in

Monllcello.

n/a
n/a Nallonal Scenic Byways Discretionary Grant/local match

5 Meet with DOT regarding signage Byway Commission/City & n/a placement forthe byway aswell County Staff asfinal design, trail crossings and landscaping where the Monticello Bypass will intersect the Byway.

6 Work with city/county attorneys County Commission/City local

and DCA todetermine legal

Councils, DCA Better

structure ofcommission and set Hometown staff

upassociated land trust

7 Hire apart time staff person to Byway Commission with National Scenic

assist the Commission in

approval byrespective chief Byways Discretionary

administering consultant contracts elected officials

Grant / local match

and implementing the byway's

corridor management plan.

5,000.00

8 Hold facilitated meeting totrain Byway Commission/DCA Local members onmission and duties. staff

9 Begin discussions with Social Byway Commisson

local

Circle, Mansfield and Newton

County onapplying fora RAP

grant topromote regional tourism

and improve the byway.

10 Discuss the actions that would be Byway CommissionlByway n/a needed toextending the byway Coordinator boundaries with other affected local governments.

11 Begin working with Jasper County Byway C;ommission/Byway onIdentifying routes foraJasper Coordinator/Jasper County County Scenic Roads and Trail Staff and Citizen Volunteers System and assist the County in seeking grant funding forthis project.

500.00 300.00

12 Contract with atraffic engineer/planner to assist in

Byway Commission/Byway National Scenic

Coordinator

Byways Discretionary

planning scenic turnouts and

safety improvements and towork

.1.

Grant / local match

with DOT toensure that DOT

projects PI#231730 and

PI#245040 have only positive

impacts onthe byway.

13 Contract with a landscape architect toprepare alandscape masterpian forthe bypass, with emphasis onenhancing sections ofthe roadway with wildflowers and screening non-rural or unsightly elements.

Byway CommissionlByway Nallonal Scenic

Coordinator

Byways Discretionary

Grant / local match

14 Begin plantlng screening trees and other native species plantings.
15 Coordinate adopt a mile program volunteers. Organize emergency trash pickup SWAT team procedures toassure that the byway isclean atalltimes.

Byway Commission/Byway Coordinator
Byway'Coordinator/ Keep Georgia Beautiful Chapter

National Scenic Byways Discretionary Grant /possible USDA
local multigovernment funding

16 Have landscape architect prepare Byway Commission/Byway National Scenic

aschematic plan and presentation Coordinator

Byways Discrellonary

boards forpotential bike,

Grant/possible USDA

equestrian and hiking trails along

grant

the byway.

17 With assistance from the

Byway Coordinator/UGA

University ofGeorgia School 01 staff

Ecology and Law, begin

negotiations with property owners

fortrail easements.

National Scenic Byways Discretionary Grant/possible USDA grant

18 Negotiate and buyconservation esernents torprionty scemc areas along byways and trail ROWs

Byway Coordinator/UGA National Scenic staffiClty County A1tomeys' Byways Discretionary
Grant / local match

19 Buy amenity areas along trail Byway Coordinator/UGA National Scenic

ROWs and any portions oftrail for staff/City County Attorneys Byways Discretionary

which easements cannot be

Grant / local match

aquired.

20 Supervise construction 01 trails

Byway Coordinator/ Either local government personnel oraprivat contractor.

21 Buyoutonly two billboards on Byway Coordinator/UGA

byway

staff/City County Attorneys

22 Install three Phase I scenic

Byway

turnouts with signage and other Coordinator/engineering

brick-and-mortar amenities along consultant

trails.

National Scenic Byways Discretionary Grant I local match

23 Contract with acityplanner or Byway Commission/local

zoning consultant toreview

government planning and

existing land use regulations and development staff

recommend changes or

improvements forprotecting the

byway.

National Scenic Byways Discretionary Grant / local match

50,000.00
20,000.00 120,000.00
3,000.00 150,000.00 50,000.00 300,000.00 200,000.00 300,000.00 20,000.00 90,000.00
30,000.00

I'

I"

,,"-

11 12

Timeline
2000 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

2001 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

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APPENDIX A Monticello Crossroads Scenic Byway CMP Implementation Timetable

Funding

Estimated

1999

#

Task Descri tion

Res onsible Parties

Sources Total Cost 7 8 9 10. 11 12

24 With consultant assistance, draft Byway Commissionllocal National Scenic

new development and sign

government planning and Byways Discretionary

ordinances and amend

development staff / ROC Grant /Iocalmatch

comprehensive land use map as planners(?)

needed.

160,000.00

25 Have architect finish design lor
exterior portions ofTrailhead Center inMonticello

City ofMonticello

National Scenic Byways Discretionary Grant/local match

???

26 Complete construction ofoutside City ofMonticello

National Scenic

parking, patio, restrooms and

Byways Discretionary

other bikeltrail amenities atthe

Grant/local match

Trailhead Center.

???

27 Hold 1st Annual Stale Scenic Byway Commission, DCA
Byway Conlerence inMonticello staff Include sessions designed to educate citizens and developers about the economic benefits of ecotourism, small busnsss incentive and grants, types of business being sought forthe byway, Provide information onthe nuts and bolts of conservation easements, best management practices fortimbering and changes toJoeal development regulations.

Local Devlopment Fund Grant (DCA)

28 Establish awildflower program Byway Commission!

private

Chamber/ citizen volunteers donationsllocal funds

29 Install Wildflower planting areas
along designated scenic vistas.

Byway Commission!Byway National Scenic

Coordinator/local

Byways Discretionary

government public works Grant/possibie USOA

slaffnocal garden clubs grant

15,000.00 5,000.00

30 Meet with cityand county staff to Byway Coordinator

nla

develop road maintenance

program (trash SWAT teams,

mowing schedules, wildflower

maintenance, etc.)

31 Meet with Joeal Keep Georgia Byway Coordinator

nla

Beautiful Chapters tobeef up

Adopt-a-Mile program

40,000.00
incorporate in local
governmenrs annual bUdge
process

32 Contract with aconsultant to Byway Commisson! web
design awebpage forthebyway consultant and aninteractive kiosk or interactive interpretive map forthe trailhead center.

National Scenic Byways Discretionary Grant /Iocalmatch

33 Oversee installadonof Phase j trails and adjunct tourist information facilities.

Byway GommissioniByway National Scenic

Coordinator/ Consulting Byways Discretionary

enginee~, I

Grant/RAP Grant

(DCA)

34 institute fa,ade/scenic

Byway Commission

improvement program toprovide

matching funds toprivate

individuais todoexterior repairs

and ciean-up orremove

diiapidated structures visible from

thebyway.

DCA Housing GrantsILocal Revolving Loan Fund

35 Work with UGA Small Business Byway Commission!
Center and USDA Micro Loan DCNDITT staff Program toassist invidual property owners inestablishing or improving theappearance of tourism related attractions along thebyway (fruit stands, small restaurants, giftshops, museums, bike/hiking supply stores)

see discription

36 Develop brochures and avideo Byway Commisson! web
highlighting byway attractions. consultant

37 Organize Hospitality Training
Pragarm

Byway Commission! Regional DiTT staff

38 Begin working onsatelite
welcome centers in commerciai bUildings atthegateways tothe Byway.

National Scenic Byways Discretionary Grant/RAP Grant (DCA)
National Scenic Byways Discretionary Grant/RAP Grant (DCA)

20,000.00 500,000.00
100,000.00
0.00 35,000.00 20,000.00

39 Work with DNR ona Wildlife

Byway CommissioniDNR

habitat pr-otection strategy forthe :taWinterestoo property

G'fW~ and iKfjac:arIHafiUs-aftd woersf Charlie Efiiot

special plantings toattract wildlife Wildlife Center.

tovieWing areas along the

corridor.

40 Finish and submit nomination olof
Seven Island Road tothe National Register otHistoric Places

41 AcqUire and develop land for
Seven Island Road Park at Smith's Millcrossing onthe Ocmulgee River.

42 Oversee installation ofPhase 2
trails and adjunct tourist information tacilities.

Byway CommissionlByway National Scenic

Coordinator

Byways Discretionary

Grant/RAP Grant

(DCA)

500,000.00

2345

Timeline

I
"
2001 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
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Page 2

Scenic Views

16

I

\

Jasper Roads

City Route

County Route

Private Route

,'V

Public Route State Route

Unknown

.
\ -I (\)

W ater Ra ilroad Interstates

City

N

w

E

S

~'--

Des c~ ripti on

---J

1a Charlie Elliott Wi l d lif e Center 1b Cha r l ie Elliot t Natur e Cent e r 2 Vi ew of h i s tor i c cemeteries 3a Pecan Groves 3b Pecan Groves 4 Merchan t s of the Past 5 Drive t hrough a peca n gr o ve 6 View of r o lling h i l l s over looki n g Montic e l l o 7 City of Mo n ti c e l l o 8 Mur der Creek 9 Homesteads of the past 1 0 Town of Shady Dale 11 Dri ve t hroug h woo ds l rolling hills 12 Vi e w of Upper lakes 13 Vi e w of Lo wer lakes
o

II