COLUMBIA COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA

Community
COUNTY

BUILDINGS,

Facilities

SCHOOLS and RECREATION

1968

a background study of the
comprehensive county plan

COLUMBIA COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
COURT HOUSE, BLOOMSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA

COLUMBIA COUNTY
HISTORICAL SOCIETY

COLUMBIA COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA

Community
COUNTY

BUILDINGS,

Facilities

SCHOOLS and RECREATION

The preparation of this report was
financed in part through an urban
planning grant from the Department
of Housing and Urban Development,
under the provisions of Section 701
of the Housing Act of 195^ as amended, administered by the Bureau of
Community Development, Pennsylvania
Department of Community Affairs.

1968

background study of the
comprehensive county plan
a

COLUMBIA COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
COURT HOUSE, BLOOMSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA

COLUMBIA COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Richard K. Walton, President
Carl S. Canouse, Vice President

John C. Creasy, Secretary-

Marvin T. Bower, Chief Clerk
Galley C. Keller, Solicitor
3 6

»/.

1,

^i

3

COLUMBIA COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

MEMBERS
Maynard

R.

Johnson, Chairman

Horace D. Bennett, Jr

Joseph C. Conner, Vice Chairman

Robert T. Burge

Carl A. Wittig, Treasurer

Vaughn W. Carson

Frank Beishline

Fred W. Kistler

Joseph G. Tuza

STAFF
George A. McKelvy, Planning Director
Jay W. Myers, Solicitor

Annette Chebatorls

SPECIAL PROJECT CONSULTANT

Clifton E. Rodgers and Associates
901 North Cameron Street
Harrlsburg, Pennsylvania

CONTENTS
COMMUNITY FACILITIES STUDY
COLUMBIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
PAGE
PART ONE
A.
B.
C.
D.

-

COUNTY BUILDINGS

Court House
County Jail
Storage Buildings
County Home

PART TWO

-

EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES

Introduction
A.

1.

5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

10.
11.
12.
13*

I3A
1*+.

15.

10
10

Berwick Area Senior High 10-12
Third Street Junior High 7-9
Orange Street Junior High 7-9
Nescopeck Junior High 7-9
Chestnut Street Elementary K-8
Fairview Avenue Elementary K-^Ferris Heights Elementary K-^Fourteenth Street Elementary K-6
Market Street Elementary K-6
Orchard Street Elementary ^-6
Salem Township Elementary 1-6
Christian Church K-1
Nescopeck Third Street Elementary 5-^
Nescopeck Fourth Street Elementary 3-5

11
11

12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12

12
12
12

BLOOMSBURG SCHOOL DISTRICT
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.

D.

Benton Area Junior-Senior High 7-12
Ray Appleman Elementary 1-6

L.

BERWICK AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
3.
k.

C.

7

BENTON AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
2.

B.

1
5
5
6

Bloomsburg Area Senior High 10-12
Bloomsburg Area Junior High
7-9
Bloomsburg Memorial Elementary K-6
W. W. Evans Memorial Elementary K-6
Beaver Township Elementary K-6
Main Township Elementary 1-6

I3
^h

15
16
16
I7

CENTRAL COLUMBIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
22.
23.
2h,
25.
26.

Central Columbia Junior-Senior High 7-12
Scott Township Elementary K-6
Mifflin Township Elementary K-6
Lime Ridge Elementary K-3
North Centre Township Elementary ^-6

I8
I8
18
I8
I9

CONTENTS

(Continued)

PAGE
27.
28.
E.

Orangeville Elementary

1-3

^-6

'

19
19

Millville Jiini or -Senior High 7-12
Madison Township Elementary 1-6
Pine Township Elementary 1-6
Greenwood Township Elementary 1-6

20
20
20
21

SOUTHERN COLUMBIA AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
33.
3^.
35.
36.

G.

Elementary

MILLVILLE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
29.
30.
31.
32.

F.

Moiint Pleasant Township

Southern Columbia Area Junior-Senior High 7-12
Catawissa Elementary K-6
Elysburg Elementary
K-6
Roaring Creek Valley Elementary K-6

21

22
22
22

CENTRALIA BOROUGH 1-12
Attend Mt Carmel Area School District in
Northumberland County

23

CONYNGHAM TOWNSHIP 1-12
Attend North Schuylkill School District in
Schuylkill County

23

.

H.

I.

PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS
Emmaculet Conception
St. Columba
St. Cyril & Methodius
St. Ignatius
St. Joseph

Berwick
Bloomsburg
Berwick
Centralia
Berwick

23
23
23
23
23

J.

COLUMBIA-MOUNTOUR VOCATIONAL-TECHNICAL SCHOOL 10-12 23

K.

COMMUNITY COLLEGE

2h

L.

BLOOMSBURG STATE COLLEGE

2h

PART THREE - RECREATION FACILITIES
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H,

Standards for Recreation and Park Areas
State Parks and Forests
Major Natural Features
Bloomsburg Fairgrounds
Amusement Parks
Historical Museums
Municipal Parks and Recreation Areas
County Recreation Facilities

30
31
31

32
32
32
33
37

PART ONE
COUNTY BUILDINGS

COLUMBIA COUNTY COURT HOUSE

PART ONE

COUNTY BUILDINGS

1

.

COLUMBIA COUNTY COURT HOUSE

The Court House is located in the center of the Business
District of Bloomsburg, the County Seat,
The front part of the building is a three and one-half
story brick structure with a six story belfry tower which
houses a bell and clock. The rear portion of the building
is a two story brick structure.

Construction of the Court House took place in three stages:
The center section, constructed before the Civil War, was
of fine colonial architecture with large columns in front.
The
entire second floor of this section is the Court Room,
(2)
The front section addition in I89O removed the columns and
created the three and one-half story Richardson Brick StrucThe rear section in 1939? ^'as designed by
ture, and (3)
Architect Schell of Bloomsburg, The latter section has a full
finished basement.
(1)

The following is an evaluation of the adequacy of the condition, size and location of the site and building,
SITE:

The site comprises 19j780 square feet in form of a rectangle 21 5 X 92 feet on the north side of West Main Street in
Bloomsburg, The building is setback approximately 30 feet
from the curb on Main Street and about 15 feet from the alley
on the west side, and extends to the alley line at the rear
property line.

Space is provided for nine cars to park along the alley
on the west side of the building plus two on the front plaza
and an additional six along the alley on the east side. The
total number of available parking spaces is inadequate.

While the site is conveniently located to the business,
financial and professional offices in Bloomsburg, its size
does not permit horizontal expansion of the building. To
expand the site it would be necessary to span the alley in
the rear and acquire the municipal parking lot,
BUILDING:
The following inspection report of the Court House covers
observations of the general condition and adequacy of space
for each of the special functions.

GENERAL CONDITION AND DESIGN:
The building is structurally sound and maintained as well
as is reasonably feasible for an aging structure of this type.
The design, layout and arrangement of space is generally inadequate and inefficient for present and future operations.
A.

FIRST FLOOR
1
Commissioners Suite
a.
Meeting Room and General Office space is inadequate in respect to circulation, equipment
operation, visitor waiting and meetings with
the Commissioners,
b.
Vault: Size satisfactory, equipment old,
2.

Tax Accessor and Voter Registration (combined office)
Space utilization at maximum,
Storage insufficient.
b.
c.
Noise of equipment conflicts with other activities,

a.

3»

Registrar and Recorder
Office space adequate.
b.
Storage of records inadequate.

a.

Revisions now in planning
Expand vault,
Take over additional area (former FHA office),
b.
c.
Close off part of the corridor for additional

a.

space.
h»

Janitor's Area
Too small when used as combined janitor area and
storage room,

a.

5.

6.

Toilets
a.
Fair condition

-

clean but fixtures old.

Treasurer
a.
Area satisfactory except equipment and furnishings old.

7.

B.

Prothonotary
a.
Office area satisfactory except for equipment and
furnishings being old.
Basement storage of old records inadequate.
b.

SECOND FLOOR
Court Room and Adjacent Areas
a.
Old but in fair to good condition.
b.
Law library too small.
c.
Jury rooms adequate.
d.
Need visiting judge area.

8.

- 2 -

9.

Planning Commission
Office Area inadequate space.
b.
Need (1) conference room, (2) director's office.
c.
Equipment good,

a.

10.

Child Welfare
Inadequate space.
Lack interview room and waiting room,
Storage too small,

a.
b.
c.

11.

District Attorney and Probation
Space inadequate - Location poor for review and
work with judges.
b.
Space needs -re-arrangement - Conflict with
families coming in for interviews.
c.
Equipment old.

a.

12.

13.

Veterans Affairs
a.
Space adequate.
b.
Furnishings old.

Institution District (Adult Welfare)
Space satisfactory.
b.
Furnishings and equipment old.

a.

C.

THIRD FLOOR
County Superintendent of Schools and Vocational Agriculture (m- rooms)
a.
Need for this space questionable - if to continue,
space adequate,
b.
Most furnishings old,

1^.

15*

Agriculture Extension {h rooms)
Insufficient office and storage space,
b.
Arrangement of available space poor.
c.
Equipment and furnishings old and questionable.
d.
Third floor location difficult for older visitors.

a.

D.

BASEMENT FLOOR
16.
Civil Defense
a.
Not good - combined with storage of county records.
b.
Lack storage space.
c.
Need emergency administration and communications
facility.
17

•

18,

Army Recruiting
a.
Space satisfactory.

Equipment good,

Basement, Generally
Not good for offices,
b.
Poor ventilation and dampness.
c.
Circulation between spaces poor,
d.
Low ceilings,
e.
Inadequate exits.
a.

- 3 -

RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of County Commissioners
engage an architectural firm to undertake a space study of the
Court House to determine the feasibility of remodeling the
existing structure at the present location.

It is recommended that the Space Study be undertaken before major remodeling improvements are made in view of the
foregoing findings.
A Space Study, when properly conceived, can be used as a
long range guide for staging remodeling projects and thereby
enables the Commissioners to undertake several improvement
projects at different times with the assurance that the expenditures will be in accordance with a sound plan.

The Space Study should cover the followings subjects:
a.

An analysis of the present activities and uses
housed in the Court House,

b.

A study of the site and the potential for its
expansion.
In this case it may be necessary to

bridge over and/or tunnel underneath the alley
to the north if the study Indicates that horizontal expansion is advisable. The study may
reflect vertical expansion and an elevator to be
the most advantageous and thus the limits of the
present site would not have to be expanded.
c.

External space arrangement and traffic circulation.
This study would also give consideration to the external appearance of the building as well as requirements for off-street parking, loading and
unloading zones with respect to the existing and
future traffic pattern of the Downtown Area,

d.

Internal space and circulation studies. These
studies would be related to the requirements as may
be dictated by future population growth and the
present and new types of activities that the County
will be required to consider. In addition, it
would give consideration to the Internal circulation of visitors, employees, and respective business
operations and storage facilities,

e.

Methods of financing construction work. This study
would give consideration to the present Income and
expenditures and consider other sources of Income as
may be available from outside sources to finance an
improvement program.

_

1+

_

2.

COLUMBIA COUNTY JAIL

The Jail is a rugged stone structure erected in I877,
It is located on a large site at the corner of Seventh and
Iron Streets in Bloomsburg,
SITE:

The site comprises approximately 60,000 square feet of
level land in the form of rectangle about 200 x 300 feet. The
site is located in a residential district and is more than
adequate in size for present and future needs of the jail as
well as the county warehouse and storage buildings that are
located to the rear.

BUILDING:
The building has the capacity of handling 20 prisoners
including an old fashioned exercise yard enclosed by a high
stone wall.
In addition, plans are underway to remodel the
second floor of the front part of the building into two
sections for adult and teenage women. A section on the first
floor is being remodeled for teenage boys. The first floor
has office space for the warden and the kitchen in addition to
the men's cell block.

The building is structurally sound but very old fashioned.
The present usage of the jail reflects that the capacity is
more than twice that required for prisoners during recent
years.

RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that use of the present jail be continued until a multi-county program is arranged whereby a
facility of efficient size can be provided.
If the jail is
relocated in the future, the site can be used for other uses.
3.

STORAGE BUILDINGS

As previously mentioned, the county has a warehouse to
store surplus food and miscellaneous supplies and equipment.
This is a cement block building built in 1956 on Seventh
Street to the rear of the jail. This building is adequate in
size and condition for present and future use. At the same
site there is a wood frame building judged to be over '^'^ years
old.
This building is old but in satisfactory condition for
its present limited use which is storage of equipment.

RECOMMENDATION:
The storage buildings are adequate in size and condition
for present and future use.
Should the jail be relocated

5 -

from this site in the future it would be advisable to provide
for needed storage elsewhere,
k.

COUNTY HOME

The County Home, historically referred to as "The County
Poor Farm", is located off Fishing Creek Road on Township Road
There
500 in Mount Pleasant Township north of Bloomsburg.
are 135 acres in the property, 95 which are farmed.
The buildings consist of the following:

Men's Building
Women's Building
Superintendent's Residence
Barn and other Farm Buildings

Brick
Frame
Frame
Frame

The State classifies the County Home as having facilities
adequate for 15 patients. The concept of the County Home as
a farm originated in the early days of county Institutions.
With the decline in the farm population and increase in urban
and suburban population, influenced by the Industrial Revolution and continuing in recent years, the background of
the persons requiring care at the County Home has changed
from rural to predominantly urban. This change in background
plus the increase in the life span of elderly persons places
a high demand on the County Institution District to provide
a modern nursing home.
The modern concept of such a facility is to have an adequately sized center with complete medical and theropetic
services In addition to the housing of patients. To accomplish this, it may be advisable for Columbia County to join
with Montour and/or other adjoining counties to create proper
facilities on an economically feasible basis.

RECOMMENDATION:
Have architect planners conduct a site location study and
feasibility study for a new County Home at the appropriate
location.

- 6 -

High School

Millville Jr.-Sr.

Benton

Jr.-Sr.

High School

'^^
PART

TWO

Bloomsburg Senior High School

Southern

Jr.-Sr.

High School

EDUCATIONAL

FACILITIES

Berwick Senior High School

Central Jr.-Sr. High School

PART TWO
EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES

Columbia Coixnty has a County School Board of eight members
The County Superintendent is the exand a staff of twelve.
ecutive officer.
The County is delineated into six districts, each administering a full scale educational program in the elementary
and secondary grades.
In addition, the newly formed ColumbiaMontour Area Vocational-Technical School will initiate operations in a new building in September 1969- Including the
new Vocation-Technical School', there will be 37 public schools
Considerable
and 5 parochial schools serving Columbia County.
progress has been made in the modernization and expansion of
the public school system in the twenty year period from 19^8
to 1968.
A survey made in 19^8 reported h7 schools outside
Of a total of 56
Berwick where there were 9 at that time.
schools, 20 had one room and another 1^+ were reported to be
substandard in 19^8.
A survey and inspection has been conducted of the entire

public school system in the Spring of I968 and an evaluation
made as to the adequacy of size and location with relation to
the present and potential population.
The accompanying map
shows the location of each school.
The number on the map is
keyed to the Summary Table and the following narrative descriptions of each school and site.

Also included is a sample of the questionnaire used to
secure information from each school district.
The questionnaires were mailed to the Superintendent of each School District through the Columbia County Planning Commission in
cooperation with the office of the County Superintendent of
Schools. The study consultant then discussed the questionnaire with each District Superintendent and inspected each of
the 37 schools.
The information contained in the questionnaires was then
analyzed in relation to present and future population in each
of six school districts.

From this analysis, a rating score was assigned to each
school on the basis of the building, the site, and/or the
location.

Excellent
Good

-

Few or no improvements needed.

Certain desirable facilities are lacking
or inadequate but could be made adequate.

-

7 -

Fair -

Poor

—— —-Deficiencies

are numerous but correction
can be made with relative economy.

—Inadequate because

of a combination of two
or more of the following:
Absence of facil-

ities, inadequate capacity, poor structural
condition, inadequate site, poor location,
or poor access.

Unsatisfactory - The building and/or site should be
abandoned at the earliest possible time.
The purpose of this survey is to inventory the public school
needs and to have this background information available for the
consideration of each school district in formulating their
comprehensive development plans.
The following summarizes the principle physical characteristics
and needs for each school district:
A,

BENTON AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Secondary and Elementary Schools are located at the
Benton Park in a manner so that the buildings and site can
The location is central and accessible from
be expanded*
all parts of the district. While certain desirable facilities are lacking or inadequate, the present buildings can
be made adequate^
B,

BERWICK AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

Berwick is a built-up industrial center. The Senior
High School is an excellent building well located to serve
the District and on a site that can be expanded.
Of the
three (3) buildings used as Junior High Schools and nine
(9) elementary buildings only one (Salem) is less than 36
years old and only three are less than fifty years in age.
While the District is to be complimented on their excellent
maintenance program, a gradual replacement program shall be
necessary. Most schools are well located to serve neighborhoods in which the children reside, however, with few exceptions, there is insufficient land at these sites for
expansion or for essential outdoor playgrounds,
C,

BLOOMSBURG AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

This District has an excellent Senior High School on a
large site which will permit expansion when necessary.
The Junior High School is located in a congested section
of Bloomsburg on a small site.
The Memorial Elementary
site is adequate and the Evans Elementary site is large
enough to allow for expansion.

- 8

In general, the elementary buildings are in good
condition but the distribution of room space creates
serious overcrowding within Bloomsburg and too much
space in Beaver and Main Townships where population
decline has occurred,
D.

CENTRAL COLUMBIA SCHOOL DISTRICT

This District has an excellent Junior-Senior High
Of the six (6)
School on a site that can be expanded.
elementary schools, three (3) are to be closed. One
because of structural conditions and two because of the
location with respect to the distribution of the pupils.
E.

MILLVILLE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

This District just completed a modernization and expansion program of the Junior-Senior High School, Two of
the three (3) elementary buildings can be expanded on the
present sites, while the third (Madison) shall have to
relocate to a rEw site when expansion is undertaken.
F.

SOUTHERN COLUMBIA AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Junior-Senior High School is an excellent b\iildlng
on a large site. Two of the three (3) existing elementary
schools, Catawlssa and Elysburg are satisfactory for
present usage but should not be expanded. Meanwhile, the
Roaring Creek Elementary School could be expanded at the
present site.

A detailed Inventory and analysis based on field surveys
and data provided by the school districts for each primary
and secondary public school building follows in addition to
descriptive summaries for all other educational facilities
in Columbia County,

- 9 -

BUILDING INSPECTION REPORT
FOR EACH SCHOOL DISTRICT

A.

BENTON AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
This District covers the northeast corner of Columbia
County and is comprised of the Boroughs of Benton and
Stillwater and the Townships of Benton, Fishing Creek,
Sugarloaf and Jackson,

The public schools are located in Benton Borough on
Fishing Creek. Pennsylvania Highway Route ^-87 runs north
and south along Fishing Creek Valley where a major portion
of the population is located.

While the total population is not expected to expand
significantly in this area, a movement of population is
reflected by the new subdivisions (eg. Green Acres) to the
north of Benton in the Township
There are two (2) public schools in this district:
1,

The Benton Area Junior-Senior High School - 7-12

The Junior-Senior High School was built in 1927
with an addition in 1957* It is a two-story brick
structure. There are I8 classrooms with a rated capacity
of !+80 students. The school serves grades 7 to 12,
Present enrollment is ^11 and the projected enrollment
There are special indoor facilities
by 1978 is ^-86.
such as a gymnasium, auditorium, cafeteria, music room,
vocational arts, shops and library.

Outdoor facilities include a soccer and baseball field in the Benton Park, While the school site
is only 3 acres, the Benton Park of 19 acres is directly
across the street,
A planned expansion includes a library and six
classrooms o It is feasible to expand the building at
the present site,
2,

The L» Ray Appleman Elementary

-

K-6

This school is a brick structure built in 195^
It has 20 classrooms with a rated
and expanded in I967,
capacity of 6OO, The kindergarten through sixth grade
Total enrollment is ^^h and the projected
is servedo
enrollment is 611,

- 10

COLUMBIA COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA

•

@
——

SCHOOL
SCHOOL NUMBER -SEE INDEX FOR NAME

SCHOOL DISTRICT BOUNDARY

COLUMBIA COUNTY
PLANNING COMMISSION

SCHOOLS AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS

The site is adjacent to the High School and the I9 acre
Benton Park. There is a library and an all piirpose area that
In addition, there is a
serves as the auditorium-cafeteria.
large playground available.
There are no planned expansions; however, the building
could be expanded on the present site.

Central water and a on-site septic tank are used,
central sewerage system has been discussed,
B.

A

BERWICK AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
This District comprises the boroughs of Berwick and
Briar Creek and Briar Creek Township in Columbia County as
well as Salem, Nescopeck and Hollenback townships and
Nescopeck Borough in Luzerne County.
3.

Berwick Area Senior High School

-

10-12

This building is located in Salem Township to the
The school
east of Berwick in a developing neighborhood.
was built in 1958 and is a fine brick structure.

There are h2 classrooms with a rated capacity of
Present enrollment is 998 and the projected enrollment is 1,131» Grades 10-12 are served.
825.

The building is complete with special facilities
such as a gym, auditorium, cafeteria, music room and
shops. It is expected that approximately 150 students
will attend the Area Vocational Technical School in I969
and that this number will increase by 1978.
Thus, the
overcrowding at this school will be temporarily relieved
when the Vocational Technical School opens.
The site of 26,7 acres provides space for footsoccer,
ball,
baseball and track,
A central water and sewer system provides service.

The Building can be expanded on this site,
h.

Third Street Jr3High School

-

7-9

Located in central Berwick in a congested area.
This is an old structure with the original section built in
1887 and additions in I9OI, 1921, and I926.

-

11 -

Serving grades 7-9, there are 28 classrooms rated for 600
students. The present enrollment is 687 and the projection
This building is overcrowded for pre'sent and
to 1978 is 685.
future enrollment.

Special facilities include an all p\irpose area for gym, and
cafeteria. There are also an auditorium, vocational arts and
shop areas.
Central water and sewer facilities are available.
A small site of two acres limits expansion of this building in this location.
5.

Orange Street Junior High School

-

7-9

Located in West Berwick in a built-up section of
Built in I929, this school has 15 classrooms with a
town.
rated capacity of 33O. Present enrollment is 332 and the
projection for 1978 is 3^^.
A gym and cafeteria are available,
water and sewer system provides service.

A central

The site contains two acres which limits future
expansion of the building.
6.

Nescopeck Junior High School

-

7-9

Located in Nescopeck on a site of one acre in a
built-up section. The school was built in 1932 and expanded in 1953
There are I3 classrooms rated to serve 200.
Present enrollment is I96 which is projected to go to 225
by 1978.

There Is a cafeteria, music room and vocational
arts room. An all-purpose area serves as the gym and
auditorium. There is a central water and sewer system.
It is not feasible to expand the site or the
building unless the adjoining elementary buildings are
removed.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
There are nine elementary schools in the Berwick District one in Salem Township, two in Nescopeck and six in Berwick (see
summary tables).
(Kindergarten and First Grade classes are
temporarily being held in the Christian Church until the Salem
school is enlarged.)
The Salem Elementary School is the only
modern building of the group. Only one of the balance are less
than forty years old and the others are all over fifty years of
age.
- 12 -

These old buildings are all neighborhood schools
originally located for convenience of pedestrian students.
The simimary tables list the capacity and evaluates the
structures, location and site as to suitability for present
and future use.

With exception of the new Salem School, these elementary buildings are on sites of 1 and 2 acres, a factor not
favoring expansion of the buildings. The Salem building has
a large site and an all-purpose room for gym, auditorium and
cafeteria.
C.

BLOOMSBURG AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
This District covers the Town of Bloomsburg and the
townships of Beaver, Main, Hemlock and Montour. The Town of
Bloomsburg is the urbanized economic and cultural center of
the district while a suburban pattern is forming in Hemlock
and Montour Townships, Main and Beaver Townships are rural
areas to the south of the Susquehanna River with small settlements in Mainville, Slabtown and Shumans. To the east beyond
the Bloomsburg District boundary, some of the over spill or
suburban growth from Bloomsburg is in Scott Township.

Three of the six public schools are located in Bloomsburg where a large majority of the population reside. The
school enrollment reflects a steady growth from 2,331 in
1956-1957 when the jointure was established to 2,7^-9 in I967.
The major problem confronting this district is the
overcrowding of the Bloomsburg Memorial School and the congested location of the Junior High School. Growth trends in
the Fernville and Sunken Heights section of Hemlock and
Montour Township reflect the need for expansion of the W. W.'
Evans School in the near future.
16.

Bloomsburg Area Senior High School

-

10-12

Located at 12th & Railroad Streets in Bloomsburg.
Constructed on a 32 acre site, brick construction in the
year I963.
Student capacity
Projected enrollment - 709.
and 2 on 1/2 day basis.

-

709 » Present enrollment - 637
Teaching Staff - 30 full time

Contains 2^ classrooms

Gymnasium seats 600
locker facilities adjoining).

-

-

15 carpeted.

(boys and girls shower and

Auditorium seats 750 (stage area, public address
facilities, electric organ, aisle carpeted).

- 13 -

Home Economics Department
Health Classrooms
Vocational Agricultural Department
Automotive Shop
Mechanical Drawing Room
Music and Band Room

Cafeteria
Library (contains one room for professional use)
Art Department
Chemistry and Physics Laboratories
Special Education Room (Secondary level)
Biology Department and Laboratory
Business Education Room
Visual Aid Room
Faculty Work Rooms
T.V. Antenna and co-axial cable system
Outdoor facilities for use of physical education
classes
Asphalt student and faculty parking facilities
Baseball field
Plans for football stadium (not yet completed)
Boys and girls lavatory facilities
Intercommunication and paging system with clocks
Water supply and sanitary disposal system connected to municipal system
Oil fired heat
District Administrative offices
Senior High School Principal's office
Senior High School Guidance office
Health Suite - nurses room
This building has adequate capacity and located on a large
site accessible to all parts of the district.
17.

Bloomsburg Area Junior High School

-

7-9

Located at First and Center Streets in Bloomsburg.
Student capacity - 750, Present enrollment - 666, Projected
enrollment - 736, Teaching Staff - 31 full time and 3 on 1/2
day basis.

Main Building constructed on approximately 1 acre,
brick construction in the year 1927"
Contains 36 classrooms.

Gymnasium seats, 600 (boys and girls locker and
shower facilities adjoining).

Auditorium seats 1,000 (stage, public address
facilities, electric organ).

- Ik -

Home Economics Department
Art Department
Health Rooms
Science Laboratory
Music Room
Guidance Office
2 rooms - Susquehanna Valley Regional Film Library
Library
Audio-Visual Room
Boys and girls lavatory facilities
Water supply and sanitary disposal systems connected to municipal system

Vocational Building constructed in 19^8 of brick.
Separated from main building by a public alleyway.
1 General Classroom
Industrial Arts Shop and Classroom
Special Education Room (Secondary Level)
Band Room
Cafeteria (new - I967)
Heated from Main Building

These buildings are located in

a

congested section

of Bloomsburg and the site is too small to provide adequate

play areas and parking,
18.

Bloomsburg Memorial Elementary School

-

K-6

Located at Fifth and Market Streets in Bloomsburg.
Constructed on approximately 2 acres, brick veneer cement
block construction in the year 1952.
Student capacity - 825, Present enrollment - 916,.
Projected enrollment - 1,096. Teaching Staff - 32 full time
and 2 on 1/2 day basis,
25 Classrooms plus 2 Kindergarten Classrooms
Asphalt playground facilities
2 Remedial Reading Rooms
Health Room
Library
Art Room
Boys and girls lavatory facilities - 3 showers
Water supply and sanitary disposal systems
connected to municipal system
Elementary principal's office
Hand fired coal heat - Converting to oil/gas
combination.
This building is overcrowded.
The site is not large
enough to expand at this location. The need will likely
continue for an additional elementary school in Bloomsburg,

-

15

-

19.

W, W. Evans Memorial School - K-6

Located In Hemlock Township near Sunken Heights. Constructed on 13.6 acre site, brick veneer cement block construction
In the year 1955 - contains 8 classrooms.
Original building - Student capacity
ition constructed in I962 - capacity - I80.

-

2^+0,

6

room add-

Total rated capacity ^-20, Present enrollment - 395,
Projected enrollment - 660. Teaching staff - 19 full time.
All purpose room utilized for cafetorium
Asphalt parking facilities
Kindergarten Room
Health Room
Materials Learning Center
Remedial Reading Center
Elementary principal's office
Septic system (sanitary disposal)
Municipal Water
Oil heat
Special Education room (Elementary level)
Boys and girls lavatory facilities

This building is adequate for present enrollment and
on the site as need develops.
expanded
be
can
20.

Beaver Township School

-

K-6

Stone construction in the year 1936.

Student capacity - 270, present enrollment - 101, ProTeaching staff - h full time.
jected enrollment - 111,
12 classrooms
Cafeteria and kitchen
Auditorium (stage, dressing rooms)
Locker rooms with showers for boys and girls
Industrial arts (moved to Junior High School I963)
Home Economics (moved to Junior High School I963)
Principal's office
Visual Aid Room
Music Room
Art Room
Boys and girls lavatory facilities
Septic tank - separate water system
Municipal light plant

16 -

Stand-by electric generator
Hand-fired coaL
Maintenance Shop for custodians
This c'-iilding serves z'ne rdra.1 coz:z::^ilzy of Beaver
To-vmship and has adeq'jate capacity for fu:;ure growth.
21.

Main -ovnshiD School

-

1-6

Located in the Village of Malnville. Frame construction in 1921 - renovations made in I96O. Site 3»5 acres.
Student capacity

Present enrollment - 97
Teaching Staff - 3 full time

- 150,

Pro;"ected erjrollment - 106,

teachers,
6 classrooiis
Multi-p-Jirpose room (cafeteria and auditorium)

Kitchen
Audio -Visual Room
Music Room
Hand-fired coal (steam heat)
Municipal light plants - stand-by units
Boys and girls lavatory facilities
Septic tanks - separate wa~er system
Principal's office
This building is adequate for the present "and projected
population in z'nls area.
D.

CENTRAL CCL'^lrlA SCHOOL DISTRICT
This DisT^rict; covers the fas::er growing section cf
Columbia County between Berwick and Blocniscurg. This includes Scott, North Centre, South Centre, Mifflin, Mount
Pleasant and Orange townships and the Borough of Qrangeville,
The new Keystone Shortway has three traffic interchanges in
this district, one with Route ^87 - Light Street Road, one
at U. S. Route 11 and one at Route 339.
A lajor portion of the population resides in the urbanizing strip on the north banks of the Susqueharjia between
Blooms c".irg and Berwick in Scott and South Centre townships.
There are settlements at Orangeville and Light Street on
Fishing Creek, in Orange and Scott townships respectively.
Miffllnville and much smaller Hetlervllle are settlements
to the south of the Susquehanna River in Mifflin TownshJ.p.
There is also a growing settlement in the northwest corner
of this district In Mount Pleasant TownshJ.p near the Elementary school.

There are eight public schools, in the Central Columbia
School District, A Junior-Senior High School and seven
elementary buildings.
-

17 -

22.

Central Columbia Junior-School High School

-

7-12

Located on Old Berwick Road in Scott Township this
brick school was constructed in I962. It serves grades
With ^+1 classrooms it has a rated capacity of 1,165.
7-12.
Present enrollment is 1,0^0.
Indoor facilities include a gym, auditorium, cafeThe 66 acre site proteria, music room, arts, and shops.
vides space for football, soccer, baseball, track and tennis.
The site and the building are adequate and the building can
Central water is available and an on-site
be expanded.
treatment plant is used for disposal of waste.
23.

Scott Township Elementary

-

K-6

This brick school, located in Espy, was built in
with
additions
in 1950*
There are 20 classrooms with
1931
Grades kindergarten through sixth
rated capacity of 6OO.
are served.
Present enrollment is 513«

a

There is a playground and baseball field on the 11
acre site. An indoor all-purpose area provides space for
There is a cafeteria.
gym and auditorium.
The site and building are adequate and the building
can be expanded on the site,
A central water supply and on-site septic tank is

used.
2^-.

Mifflin Township Elementary

-

K-6

This school is located in Mifflinville on a site
Built in 1938 it is brick and in good condition.

of 11 acres.

With 1^ classrooms it has
Present enrollment is 3^+2

a

rated capacity of

^-20.

An indoor all-purpose area provides gymnasium and
auditorium space. There is a cafeteria and music room.
Outof-doors there is a playground and baseball field.
A central water system is proposed and
sanitary sewer system is needed.

a

central

The site is adequate and the building could be
expanded on this site of 11.0 acres.
25.

condition.

Lime Ridge Elementary

-

K-^

This is a frame structure built in 1925 and in good
With four classrooms it has a rated capacity

-

18

-

The total enrollment is IO9. The site has 1.5
of 120.
acres where there is a playgro-ond. There are no special
facilities and none are planned.

While the
It is not feasible to expand this building.
site is easily accessible the building is located too close
An on-site well
to the Old Berwick Road for safety reasons.
and septic tank are used.
26.

Korth Centre Township Slementary

-

^-6

This is a white frame building with six classrooms
in
built
1929. The b^ailding has a rated capacity of I80
and the present enrollment: is I90 pupils.

The site of eleven acres is located in a rural
section of North Centre Township which is not yet experiencing growth and development.
The school district plans to close this building.
27 •

Mount Pleasant Township Sleitentarv

-

h— 6

This is an attractive small school built in 19^3*
Brick and frame, the structure is in good condition.

With three classrooms, the rated capacity is 90
which is the present enrollment. There are no special
facilities other than a playground and a site of 7*0 acres.
An on-site well and septic system are used. This
site is not easily accessible nor is it feasible to expand
The School District plans to close this
the building.
building.
28.

Oraneeville Slementarv

-

1-^

This is an old frame structure built in l859»
With 3 classrooms the rated capacity is 90. Present enrollment is 80. There are no indoor special facilities.
There is a playground on the site of 2.0 acres,
A central water supply is available and an onsite septic system is used for sanitary ptirposes.

The site is not easily accessible nor is it
feasible to expand the building. The School District plans
to close this building.

MILLVILLS A?^A SCHOOL DISTRICT
The Millville District includes Greenwood, Madison and
Pine townships plus Millville Borough.
It is located to

- 19 -

Millvllle Is the major
the northwest of Bloomsburgo
population and economic center. Small settlements include Jerseytown, lola, Eyers-Grove, and Rohrsburg.
29.

Mlllville Junior-Senior High School

-

7-12

This school is located on Route 25"+ east of the
business district in Millville, A brick structure with
sections built in 1902, 1952, and 1968,

There are 27 classrooms with a rated capacity of
The present enrollment is ^-58 and a
^8h students.
straight line projection places this at 665 by 1978.

Indoor facilities include a gym, cafeteria,
music room, vocational arts and shops. A site of 20 acres
provide space for a soccer field and baseball field. A
track is proposed,
A central water and sewer system is available.

This school is centrally located on a site that
Facilities needed are administrative
can be expanded.
offices, teacher-student conference room, health suite,
auditorium and larger library.
30.

Madison Township Elementary

-

1-6

This school is located on Route 25^ in the
Village of Jerseytown in Madison Township, A frame
structure built in 1932 and in good condition.

There are six regular classrooms plus an improvised room arranged by using the stage in the auditorium to eliminate overcrowding and the bussing of pupils
The rated capacity of the school is
to another school.
180 and the present enrollment is I99 with the 1978 projected enrollment at 205»
There is an all-purpose room used for auditorium
The site of four acres provides space for
and cafeteria.
On-site well and septic
a playground and baseball field.
system provide water and sewer service. It may be necessary to replace this building within five to ten years
in view of the projected population growth in this area.
31.

Pine Township Elementary - 1-6

This school is located at Tola on Route
north of Millville in Pine Township,

^-2

A brick structure built in I96O with six class-

- 20

The biiilding has a capacity of l8o pupils and an
Projected enrollment is 205.
enrollcient of l8l.

rooms.

An all-purpose room serves as the auditorium and
cafeteria. The site of 5 acres has a playground and baseball field. An on-site well and septic system are used.
This building can be expanded on this site.
32.

Greenvood Township Elementary

-

1-6

This school is located on Route 2^"^ east of
Millville in Greenwood Township. Built in 19^'+ thJ.s brick
struct'Jire is in good condition on a well located site of
5 acres.
There are six classrooms ana no special purpose
rooms. There is a baseball field and playgroijmd. An
on-site well and septic system are used to supply water
and handle sewerage.
The rated capacity is I80 and total enrollment is
The
projected
enrollment is 205. The site and build172.
ing can be expanded at this location.

There is a need for an all-purpose room for a
cafeteria - auQitori"'jm, library, offices, music rooms,
teachers room, nurses room and other special facilities.

SOUTHERN COLUMBIA AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
Inis District comprises the large rural farm area in
the southwest corner of the County.
The district comprises Catawissa, Roaring Creek, Locust, Cleveland and
Franklin townships and Catawissa Borough in Columbia
County and Ralpho TownsrJ.p in Northumberland County.
Catawissa Borough is the major urban center where industrial and commercial activities are located.
Small
settlements of population include, Numidia, Queen City,
Slabtown, Kewlin and Mill Grove in Columbia County and
Elysburg in Northumberland County,
33.

Southern

Col-.:jicia

Area Jr.-Sr. High School - 7-12

This school is located on Route ^-87 in Franklin
Township. It is a brick school built in 1961. There are
2^ classrooms with a rated capacity of 857. No new classrooms are proposed. The present enrollment is 8^6.

The building has indoor facilities such as a
auditorium, cafeteria, music room, vocational arts,
and shops. The site of 56 acres provides ample space for
football, baseball and track.
g}-m,

An on-site well and sewage treatment plant are
used.
- 21 -

The site and building could be expanded. This
site is attractive and well located, although sight distance of approaching traffic is less than desirable.
Access would be greatly enhanced if portions of Route ^-87
were widened and realigned from Catawissa to Elysburg.
3*+.

Catawissa Elementary

-

K-6

This building is located in the built-up area
This is an old 2-story brick
of Catawissa Borough,
structure built in I882 with additions in 1905 and 1936.

The rated capacity of the 13 classrooms is
One
new classroom is proposed. Present enrollment
365.
is 362 and the projection is U-00.
An all-purpose area serves as a gym, auditorium
and cafeteria. There is a soccer field and baseball
field on the site of six acres. A central water and sewer
system are available.
This site cannot be expanded and the access is
congested. The building should not be expanded beyond
present plans,
35.

Elysburg Elementary

-

K-6

This school is located at Elysburg in Ralpho
Township, Northumberland County, A brick structure with
the original part built in 1922 and additions in 1935
and 1955.

The school serves grades kindergarten to sixth.
There are ten classrooms with a rated capacity of 3OO,
The total enrollment is
One new classroom is proposed.
260.

An all-purpose area provides Indoor space for
The site of six acres
gym, auditorium and cafeteria.
allows ample space for a baseball field. There is a central water supply and an on-site septic system.
It appears that this building and site can
accommodate the future needs unless unexpected growth
takes place,
36,

Roaring Creek Valley Elementary - K-6

This school is located in Locust Township to the
south of Numidia on Route ^-2, A one-story brick structure
There are nine classrooms rated to house
built in 1953»
Present and long
270 students. No additions are planned.
range enrollment is 286,
torium.

An all-purpose room serves as cafeteria and audiThe site of 11 acres has a baseball field. An
- 22 -

on-site veil
services

ar.d

septic system provides water and sever

Il--i3 building is so\ind, well located, can be expanded
and is easilv accessible,

G.

CSNTRALIA 50RCUGH

1-12

-

Public scr.ocl pupils are "aicen by bus frox the Borough
of Centralia into ~he Mt. Carmel Area School Dis-rict in
No r t huxb er land C ount y
St.
;-;.

For parochial students, grades 1-5 are served
Ignatius Catholic School in Centralia.

CO?fYNGEAM TOVySEIF

-

"cv

zr.e

1-12

Public scnccl pupils of Conynghax lovnship are bussed
Into the Xorth 3chuvlV:ill School Dis"rict in SchuvlViill
?A?.CCHIAL SCHOOLS - 1-S
I.iere are five Parochial Schools in Col-jxbia County.
The Tathclic Diocese of Harrisb'urg adiiiinisters the school
prcgran through the local parish.
'he

fcllovins three rarochial Schools ar

^—r «_

C

r-

Exxac-olet Conception with Ibl pupils
5t. Joseph vlth 20^ pupils
£t, Cyril and Methodius vith 35 pupils

Saint
Cyril's, which has had as high an enrollxent
as 93 (1959-19cO>
vill net re-open this Fall.)
,

The St, Columba Parochial School serves 230 pupils in
Blcoxsburg and the St. Ignatius in Centralia serves 1^6
pupils. All parochial schools serve grades 1-3,

This is a nev school nov under construction and to
be ready for occupancy in Septexber of 1969«
^—2 school
has a rated capacity of y'-^Q pupils. The service area includes all Columbia County school districts, except ''illville, and the Danville Area School District vhich includes all of Montour Coi.inty plus Riverside Borough and
Rush lownship in Nor thioinber land County.
Ihe roox schedule calls for the fcllo'*ring:
- P.egular and other classrooms
- Science labs
16 - Shop Areas
2 - Libraries
G%*mnasi".im vith s hovers

10

h-

-

23

Health Suite
Cafeteria and Kitchens
Administrative Suite
Conference Areas
Student Activities
The site of ^8 acres is located north of the Berwick
Highway in South Centre Township, There is adequate
outdoor space for the athletic facilities and for future
expansion.
The curriculum to be available at this Vocational
Technical School is as follows:

Auto Body
Auto Mechanic
Carpentry and Construction
General Electricity
Horticultural and Floriculture
Distributive Education
Machine Shop
Printing
Sheet Metal and Fabrication
Data Processing
Drafting and Design
Electronics
Cosmetology
Health Assistance
Food Preparation
K.

COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Columbia County has no Com.munity College at present.
Persons desiring this level of educational services travel
to the community college centers at Williamsport and WilkesBarre.

The travel distance ranges from 25 to ^-0 miles for
persons from Columbia County. Recognizing that the economy
of the community college is achieved through the students
being able to stay at home and commuting to classes daily,
the question of a community college for Columbia -Mout our
Counties remains open for further study and consideration.
L.

BLOOMSBURG STATE COLLEGE
A liberal arts college equipped to provide undergraduate and graduate training. The I966-67 enrollment of
3,250 students is projected to 6,525 by 1976-77. The
main campus of 60 acres was started over a hundred years
ago by the Blooms burg Literary Institute. The institution
advanced from a Normal School to a Teachers College and
now a Liberal Arts College.

-

2^

-

Eventually the institution may achieve university
The college program is adininistered by the Perr.sylstatus.
A master plan has
of Public Instruction,
Department
vania
of the campus.
expansion
the
orderly
to
guide
prepared
been
expand
facilities
to an upper
projected
is
to
campus
plan
The
which was
acres
additional
68
comprising
an
open
land
level on
This
upper
Country
Club.
of
the
Bloomsburg
site
the
formerly
the
campus
by
from
main
separated
area
is
physically
campus
Traffic
and
'.predominately
residential)
development
existing
Route M-87.
In addition to the essential educational program carried
on at this public institution, the college is one of the major
employers in Coliombia County. The campus is attractively
maintained and the b^-iildings kre in good condition. The
improvement program is veil organized and is being carried out
by competent administrators and architects.

Ihe following tables (Nos. 2-1 and 2-2) summarize the
basic data and evaluations of the building, location and site
for each primary and secondary public school within the six
school districts of Coliimbia County, A sample of the school
questionnaire form used in this survey follows the tables.

- 25 -

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QUESTIONNAIRE
PUBLIC SCHOOL SURVEY
COLUMBIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
March I968

1.

Name of District:

2.

Name of School Building

KINDLY RETURN TO
George A. McKelvy, Director
Coliimbia Co. Planning Commission
Court House
Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania
17815
;

Year Built:
(Est. if unknown)

Dates of any additions:
3.

Grades Served:

h.

Number of Class Rooms:

Rated Capacity

Number and Capacity of any Proposed Class Rooms:
5.

Total Enrollment

6.

Projected Enrollment

7.

Area of Site (Acres)

-

(Attach Breakdown by Grades)

I968
-

(Attach Breakdown by Grades)

I978

Check if Special Indoor Facilities are Available:
Included in
Separate
All Purpose Area

Proposed

Gymnasium
Auditorium
Cafeteria
Music
Vocational Arts
Shops
Swimming Pool

Check if Special Outdoor Facilities are Available:
Proposed
Football Field
Soccer Field
Baseball Field
Track Field
Swimming Pool
10.

Public Services:

(check appropriate blanks)

Central Water Supply

Supply from Wells on Site

Central Sanitary Sewer Facilities

Treatment Plant on Site
Other

(specify)

Septic Tank on Site
-

1 1

.

Condition of Building and Site for Current and Potential Enrollment
;

The present building is adequate with respect to the following
(YES or NO)
POTENTIAL ENROLLMENT
CURRENT ENROLLMENT
:

Construction
Safety
Sanitation
d. Location
e. Special Facilities
a.
b.
c.

f.

Other

If any are answered (NO) attach comment sheet.
comment with item letter (a,b,c, etc.)
12.

Is it Feasible to Improve Present Building?

Identify

(YES or NO)

Remarks
13.

Is it Feasible to Expand Present Building on the Site?
(YES or NO)

Remarks:
1^.

Is the Building Accessible from all Parts of the Attendance
Area?
(YES or NO) ^________

Remarks
15.

Check Appropriate Statement for the Status of the Long Range
Developmental Plan for the District:
Report Completed

Expect to Complete Report by

Copy Available to Commission:
16.

(for files

)

(for loan_

Your comments pertaining to the adequacy of school-related supporting community facilities such as roads, sewerage, etc. or
any other school-related community development problem are welcome and would be most helpful.
If any, please attach.

Col. Co. P.O.

Completed

by

date

initials

PART THREE
RECREATION FACILITIES

Evansville

Dam

Development Plan

;

OOOO

O

*C3

.__J

PART THREE

RECREATION FACILITIES
STANDARDS FOR RECREATION AND PARK AREAS

Recreation areas are of many types and functions. The size,
type, economic feasibility and justification for recreation
areas is generally based on the size of the community, the intensity of urban development, social conditions and available
natural amenities,
Basic standards for recreation areas are defined herein to
guide in the establishment. of the responsibility and to determine where the deficiencies, if any, are in Columbia County.
1.

NEIGHBORHOOD PLAYGROUND. This is the chief outdoor play
It is
center where people of the neighborhood can gather.
a play area where the pre-school child can play in a protected area under the eye of its mother, where young people
and adults can enjoy games, where the entire neighborhood
can gather for festivals, play nights and other activities.
It becomes a neighborhood center where the whole family can
find limited types of recreation and relaxation.
In size
it may vary from 3-1/2 acres for a population of 2,000 to
6 or 7 acres for a population of 5)000 and its location
should be within 1/U of a mile of every home, if possible.
Features of the neighborhood playground usually are a play
apparatus area, open space for informal playfields, courts
for games, shaded areas for quiet activity, a swimming pool
and a shelter house. The Neighborhood Playground is usually
a municipal function.

2.

PLAYFIELD.
A playfield provides facilities for diversified'
recreational activities for young people and adults, although
A part of
a section is commonly developed as a playground.
the playfield is often set aside for athletics or highly
specialized sports. The size may range from 12 to 30 acres,
as may be determined desirable in relation to the proposed
uses. A common design criteria for the playfield is one
acre for each 800 people to be served, and its location
Some of the features
should be within one mile of every home.
of the playfield may be the playlot and playground, areas for
field games such as mushball, baseball and other sports,
badminton, tennis courts, lawn games, a swimming pool, outdoor
theater, picnic center, an indoor recreation facility and
ample parking area for cars. The playfield is usually a
municipal function.

3.

THE LARGE PARK. The large park is intended to give the urban
dweller an opportunity to get away from the noise, rush of
traffic and enjoy contact with nature. It should provide a
pleasant environment in which to engage In recreation activities. An area of 100 to ^-00 acres or more is desirable,

-

30

-

although smaller property of unusual scenic interest may
serve the purpose. Every major urban center should have
one of these properties and it is suggested that an area
of ^-00 to 500 acres be provided for every 50,000^ population. It is seldom possible to standardize on the layout
Its value lies in the efficient utilifor a large park.
zation of its natural features. For instance, a large part
of the area should be woodland, open lawn, meadow and glen.
Naturally, water areas contribute greatly to its value.
Roads should be kept to a minimum and provide access only
These may include a swimming pool,
to centers of great use.
picnic areas, boating, field sports, day camps, a zoological
garden, a botanical garden, comfort stations and shelters.
The Large Park is generally the function of the County
Commissioners in a county like Columbia, with its many
scattered urban centers
STATE PARKS AND FORESTS
Ricketts Glen State Park, A 13,000 acre state park located on
the north border of Columbia County in Luzerne and Sullivan
Counties. A profusion of magnificent waterfalls may be viewed
from trails along Kitchen's Creek, Camping, fishing and
swimming are available at Lake Jean at the summit which is
accessible by way of Route ^87*
State Game Lands. There are three major State Game Land areas
in Columbia County providing outstanding large and small game
hunting.
Game Lands #58 consisting of 12,300 acres is located
Game Lands #226, more
in the southern, portion of the County,
than ^,200 acres in area, is located north-west of Millville.
Game Lands ^^'y consisting of nearly 2,600 acres is located
along the top of Huntington and Lee mountains north of Berwick.

MAJOR NATURAL FEATURES
Susquehanna River, The North Branch of the Susquehanna River
bisects the County from east to west adding much to the area's
beauty and providing opportunities for boating and fishing.
Boat clubs are located at Berwick and Catawissa.
Fishing Creek Valley, Fishing Creek Valley extends northward
from the Susquehanna River at Bloomsburg into Rickett's Glen
State Park, This creek provides many fine camping, swimming
and fishing spots. In Benton, there Is a large park with swimming available at the adjacent Benton Dam, The Boy Scouts of
America maintain an outstanding outdoor facility at Camp
Lavigne north of Benton,

Catawissa Creek, Going south from the Susquehanna River at
Catawissa, the Catawissa Creek Valley is another natural scenic
area worthy of conservation.
Camp Catawissa is a privately owned
year-round youth camp providing swimming, horseback riding, skiing, tobogganing, hiking, nature craft and general outdoor
recreation.

31

The Catawissa Dam was recently reconditioned by local citizens
The Catawissa Boat Club
to provide an attractive swimming area.
is located across the river from Catawissa on the Susquehanna.

BLOOMSBURG FAIR GROUNDS
The Columbia County Agricultural, Horticultural and Mechanical
Association has operated the Bloomsburg Fair for more than one
hundred years. The grounds are well developed and maintained
and include exposition buildings, race track and grandstand.
The annual Fair Week in September, attracts more than a quarter
of a million people to exhibits of agriculture, industry, school,
home arts, crafts, harness and midget auto racing,

AMUSEMENT PARKS
There are several private amusement park areas. Knoebel's Grove
Amusements include rides, playis outstanding in this category.
land, roller skating, dancing, entertainment, refreshments, picnicking and large swimming pool. Located on the countyline, 3
miles east of Elysburg on Route '+87, Open May 30th thru Labor
Day - also Simdays during May and September. There are also a
number of summer cottages at this park.

Along Old Berwick Road is the Bloomsburg Midget
the New Berwick Highway is the Carroll Park and
An authentic western village is being developed
in conjunction with the operating antique steam

Raceway and on
Western Railroad.
at Carroll Park
railroad.

Ideal Park on Route ^-2 south of Catawissa has a swimming pool,
games, playfields and picnic facilities.

HISTORICAL MUSEUMS
In addition to the numerous landmarks in the way of historic and
scenic sites and buildings throughout the County, there are
several museums of note,
There
Berwick Historical Society Museum,
535 East Second Street,
are over 500 volumes of historical books here, including several
sets of Pennsylvania Archives.
On file are many newspaper clippings, cemetery records, articles and genealogies of Berwick,
Salem Township and vicinity.

Columbia County Historical Society Museum.
353 East Main Street,
Bloomsburg. A multitude of Indian artifacts, records and other
mementos of the area's history are preserved and displayed here,
A basic historical and genealogical library is also maintained
here by the Society, Larger quarters are needed.
Magee Historical Museum. A privately owned free museum of thousands of historical household items, firearms and items representing the development of the carpet industry.
Open Wednesdays,
Saturdays and Sundays year-round. Located at 698 West Main
Street, Bloomsburg.
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32

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Magee Museum Village, Located along Millville Road, Bloomsburg.
An exhibit of 35 antique cars and 60 carriages and sleighs, old
time general store and operating antique electric t:i;olley line
with 8 reconstructed horse drawn and motorized cars.

Frontier Forts
Fort Jenkins
There were three frontier forts in Colxmibia County,
Fort
McClure
of
Mifflinville,
across the river from the Village
Bloomsburg
and Fort
Creek
in
on the Susquehanna River at Fishing
of
exception
the
Wheeler on Fishing Creek at Light Street, With
Fort McClure, only markers remain at these sites.

Covered Bridges
There are over 27 wooden covered bridges in Columbia County
nearly all of which are still in use. The few "retired" structures are maintained by the County for their historical value.
Thousands visit these structures annually,

Pennsylvania Canal
The North Branch Division of the Pennsylvania Canal was opened
in 1831 from Northumberland to Pittston and extended to Elmira
The line was abandoned in I9OI. Evidence of the canal
in 1856,
bed and locks is still visible along much of the line through
To date, no portions have been reconstructed for
the county.
historical or recreational purposes and annually more of the
line is being permanently obliterated by urban development,

MUNICIPAL PARKS AND RECREATION AREAS
BERWICK BOROUGH , The Berwick Recreation Board administers a
recreation program in the Borough, The Recreation Board has
submitted a statement of interest to the Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs for a grant under the $500 Million
Bond Issue for a municipal swimming pool. The Board contemplates
the continuing development of the following recreation areas:

Ber-Vaughn Park: Ber-Vaughn, the site of the proposed
swimming pools, is located in Briar Creek Borough which adjoins
It comprises
the Borough of Berwick on its western boundaryo
which is
of
one-third
about
acres
of
land,
approximately 25
one
diamond,
League
Baseball
Little
wooded, improved with a
track,
a
race
midget
a
tennis
courts,
Softball field, several
sheltables,
picnic
fireplaces,
dance pavilion and band stand,
ters and children's playgroiond equipments Most of the improvements are concentrated in the wooded area, leaving considerable
room for the swimming pools, accessory buildings and parking
accommodations, A swimming pool has been planned for almost a
decade but a lack of funds in the Borough treasury has prevented the construction of such a needed item. The Recreation
Board has plans for the replacement of many of the ancient trees
which are gradually dying off and for the construction of a band
sheel and dressing rooms for summer concerts and similar entertainment,
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33 -

Sponsler Park: Sponsler Park, like Ber-Vaughn Park, is
Borough ovmed property and covers an entire block on Monroe
This- park has been developed as a neighborhood playStreet.
ground by the installation of playground equipment, two pavilions, a paved basketball court, a basketball bank board and
park benches. The pavilions and benches, strategically placed
under the many trees, provide an area of relaxation for numerous
retirees living in the vicinity. Future development of this
facility calls for the replacement of the ancient maple trees
with young hardwoods and addition of two additional paved basketball courts.
Fowler Field: Fowler Field is leased from the Berwick
Athletic Association under a long term lease at a nominal fee.
This facility is used almost exclusively for Softball games by
the Church leagues and industrial leagues and for midget football practice, although children of the immediate vicinity use
Improvements
it for various types of amusement at other times.
of this facility call for the installation of a lighting system
for night use and for the construction of blacktopped tennis
courts which can be converted into an ice rink in the winter time
for winter sports.
'

American Legion Playground:

The American Legion Playground

is also a neighborhood playground on land under a long term lease
at a nominal cost from the local unit of the American Legion.
This playground is equipped with various playground equipment and

paved basketball cohort for the accommodation of the children of
the immediate vicinity in the northern part of the borough.
Future plans provide for the addition of a pavilion, benches and
fireplaces so that adults, as well as children, may use the
facility.

a

Market Street School Playground: This playground is located
on a portion of school property which is used by the school
children during school hours and by other children at other times.
Fenced with a chain link fence donated by the local Kiwanis Club
and equipped with the usual items of playground equipment, a
paved basketball bank board and a paved hop-scotch court, this
playground offers a safe haven for children living in the heart
of the borough.
Being fairly well equipped, no improvements are
contemplated for this facility at the present time.
Vine Street Playground: This playground was leased recently
from a local industry which has no immediate use for it, tinder a
long term lease at a nominal charge.
Present plans for this facility call for the installation of the usual itmes of playground
equipment, which is already on order, and the construction of a
blacktopped basketball court. Future development of this facility
requires planning guidance.

Walnut Street Playground: This area is a future playground
awaiting the completion of a fill project on an old excavation

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3^

Completion of the fill is anticipated
site owned by the borough.
in approximately three years, at which time it is contemplated
that a fence will be constructed and the usual items of playground equipment will be installed for the accommodation of the
children In the eastern part of the borougho>

Although the area of available recreation land is below
present-day standards and some important facilities are lacking,
Berwick's recreational needs are unusually well served by its
many neighborhood facilities,
TOWN OF BLOOMSBURG o Bloomsburg has made considerable progress
in acquiring and developing additional recreation space since
the Planning Survey of 19^7 » At that time, the land area developed for parks and playgrounds was 5^3 acres and consisted of
the High School Athletic Field on Seventh Street (three acres),
a small park along West Main Street (1,8 acres), and the play
The recent
area adjacent to the old High School (0.5 acres).
land use survey indicates that the Town has approximately ^-5
acres in recreational use, in addition to the Fairgrounds and
school playground facilities.
The most outstanding development in recent years has been the
creation of the attractive Community Park along the river at
the foot of Market Street between Railroad Avenue and Catherine
Streets, This extensive park area contains ^-0 acres and provides
space for Little League and Midget League Baseball fields, tennis
courts, playground equipment, and picnic facilities. The Municipal Pool, built by public subscription and supported by the
community, is located adjacent to the park.
The park is attractively landscaped and well maintained. Although located in a
flood plain, the only significent disadvantage of the park is
its location on the edge of the town, beyond the walking distance
of a considerable portion of the population.

Both the park areas along West Main Street and at the Junior
High School are too small and poorly located for extensive use.
The old High School Athletic Field provides a measure of open
space in a congested section of the town but is used almost
exclusively as a football fields
The construction of the new High School in 19^3 created a new
playfield for the community. Provision is made for major outdoor activities such as football, baseball, and track; and a
stadium is currently in the planning stage,
A small asphalt
playground with some equipment is provided at the centrally
located Memorial Elementary School, This facility, in addition
to the school's all^-purpose room, is used extensively in a summer
recreation program conducted there.

An appraisal of Bloomsburg 's recreational facilities reveals
that they are still below the desirable minimum standard for a
small community.
The total of ^-5 acres of recreational space is
considerably below the desirable minimum of 100 acres recommended by the National Recreation Association,
A well-balanced

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35

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recreational system requires a variety of facilities as well
as adequate land area in locations convenient to the residents.
Facilities such as playfields, neighborhood playgrounds, small
play lots, decorative parks, and community cer.ters should be
the major components of a town-wide recreation program.
Most of the land currently in recreational use is concentrated
in the large riverfront park that is located at a considerable
distance from the population. The greatest deficiency appears
to be in small playground or playlots in the older and more
crowded sections of the community.
The lack of vacant land in
these sections makes the acquisition of needed land more diffiThe large concentration of
cult as well as more expensive.
young school children in these sections increases the need for
play space close to home. There is also a need for more decorative park areas throughout the Town, particularly in the
Business District, at the various entrances to the Town, and
along the Susquehanna River and Fishing Creek.
The Town is spending an increasing amount of money for recreation in recognition of the growing need for additional facilities and play space and the increasing amount of leisure time.
Recreation expenditures increased substantially in 1955 with
the opening of the Municipal Pool.
Since then they have varied
between $7,000 and $10,000 annually, or $.65 to $.95 per capita.

BENTON BOROUGH
The Borough of Benton maintains a 19 acre community park adjacent to a former grist mill dam on Fishing Creek
within the borough. The dam provides an ample swimming facility
for residents of the area. Within the park studded by many
shade trees have been developed extensive picnic ing facilities
as well as several active play areas including a soccer and
baseball field. The facility is also utilized by the adjacent
Benton Schools in their athletic program.
;

MILLVILLS BOROUGH The Borough of Millville, through a Park
Commission, is developing a 7-1/h acre site within the Borough
as a regional community park.
Existing facilities in the
Millville Community Park consist of two paved tennis courts,
a little league baseball field, three pieces of playground
apparatus and a few picnic facilities. Plans call for the provision of a swimming pool, bathhouse, softball diamond, basketball and volleyball courts, additional playgroimd and picnic
facilities, parking and improved sanitary facilities. The
borough has recently submitted an application for a state grant
toward the construction of the proposed swimming pool,
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:

VILLAGE OF MIFFLINVILLE
In the Village of Mifflinville, Mifflin
Township, there are several acres of land owned by the township
along the river which have been developed for public recreational
use. Approximately four acres have been developed and maintained
:

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36 -

by the local Lions Club as a commimlty park with picnic, playground and sanitary facilities available as well as an area
Additional acreage to the east is
for informal Softball games.
Fire Company as a carnival
Township
Mifflin
the
utilized by
more in the center of the
located
grounds
The
school
grounds.
games and as a general
for
organized
ball
utilized
are
village
area.
play

CATAWISSA BOROUGH : The only outdoor recreation facilities
located in the Borough of Catawissa are the dam on Catawissa
Creek which is utilized intensively for swimming and a Little
League ballfield being developed. Playgrounds and playfields
are needed to serve the area's population.
The Borough of Centralia, located at the
CENTRALIA BOROUGH
of
extreme
the county, has recently acquired a 10 acre
southern
Development
Borough
for recreational purposes.
site within the
Park
and
Line
Borough
known
as
the
plans for the site, to be
levels
groups
and
all
for
age
all
Playfield include facilities
of a
consist
will
development
The first phase of
of activity.
the
which
for
facility
combination basketball and ice skating
recfederal
and
state
borough has submitted applications for
reational development grants.
;

COUNTY RECREATION FACILITIES
Until recently, the county had not found it necessary to participate extensively in the provision of recreational facilities.
At present, the only county facility is Twin Bridges
Park located near Forks between Orangeville and Benton. After
several years of planning, the county is now participating in
the development of a multi-purpose reservoir along the Evansville/Berwick Road in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Fish
Commission and the U.S. Soil Conservation Service.

Twin Bridges Park: Twin Bridges Park is an approximately
one-quarter acre leased site along Huntington Creek, adjacent
to twin covered bridges which have been restored by the county.
Picnic and sanitary facilities are available as well as wading
and swings for the youngsters. The attractive site is very
popular with the demand often exceeding the capacity, particularly on weekends.
Evansville Dam: The Evansville Dam is being developed
primarily for flood control purposes, however, considerable
recreational uses will also be available. There will be a 50
acre permanent pool which will provide swimming, fishing and
Development of the total site, consisting of I73
boating.
acres, will be carried out by the county over an extended
Present plans call for a boat launching ramp
period of time.
with mooring facilities for ^0 boats, and a beach area bathhouse, several picnicing units, a camping area, water and
sanitary facilities and parking for one to two hundred cars.

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37

-

COLUMBIA COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA

•

IXISTINO COUNTY FACILITIIS

•

PUBLIC RECREATION FACILITIES
STATE GAME LANDS NO

PICKET TS GLEN STATE PARK

.

STATE GAME

LANDS

NO. 2g!6

GAME LANDS NO

NE PARK

COIUMBIA COUNTY
PLANNING COMMISSION

COUNTY

FACILITIES

Si

CONCLUSIONS
Columbia County is fortunate to have its limited supply of
public recreation facilities supplemented by a diversity of
private parks, golf courses plus many State Parks and Forests,
The natural environment of the county provides many opportunities for passive and active recreation activities in the
attractive mountainous area, the Susquehanna River, scenic
rolling farmland and historic landmarks.

Deficiencies are reflected in county facilities when the
foregoing is evaluated with the recommended standards. A
site location study and a general development plan for one
or more County Parks will be undertaken by the county planning commission to aid in meeting the growing need for public
recreation area.

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