Crystal Lake Outlet Solutions Map: View a map of the Crystal Lake Outlet area with recommendations.
Activity in the Crystal Lake Outlet area would be heightened with several improvements. A study to assess the feasibility of dredging the outlet is underway. Dredging of the outlet would allow more boats to enter the area. By building docks, one for larger boats with a fueling station along the western edge of the State Park and one for smaller water craft along the other side of the outlet past the railroad bridge, boaters would be able to access the village center. Some of the attractions the boaters docking at the outlet could expect include the Crystal Saloon, the State Park beach, the proposed pathway and new sidewalks in the Village Green area, a cafe, lunch, or ice cream shop at the empty lot next to the fire station, and a sports rental/repair store near the True Value Hardware Store. The possibility for two businesses such as an ice cream, cafe, or lunch shop and a year-round sports rental and/or repair shop are suggestions meant to benefit local people by increasing employment opportunities and town revenue. Everything from canoes, fishing poles, skates, ice fishing equipment, rollerblades, and bicycles could be part of the all-season rental/repair store. A dock located on the western side of the outlet could be used by such a rental place. The use of the outlet to access village businesses would echo its historical use. Depending on the success of Barton in attracting tourists to the area, increased hotel business near the outlet may be a possibility. If this becomes a need, it is suggested that in planning for a hotel, the historic Crystal Lake Hotel, once located approximately at the Crystal Saloon site, be considered in terms of its architectural details.
In keeping with the Gateways' recommendations, where it was proposed to further a sense of village identity and cohesiveness, signage, landscaping, and lighting should be installed in the outlet area. This would benefit the area as a tourist attraction and help town pride. Lighting fixtures in the area would not only provide safety in the evening, but would attract visitors to the saloon, the proposed ice cream/cafe shop, and the "waterfront". Good lighting would also enhance the safety of youth activity by the outlet during the evening. By repeating a theme of colors and shapes in the signs and landscaping the cohesiveness of the village would be strengthened. The signage at the outlet should direct people to the pathway system, the Brick Kingdom, the State Park, the Village Green area, and any other attractions. It is recommended that uniform town decoration in the colors, signs, lighting fixtures, and landscaping not be extended to private houses, businesses, and older buildings because the varied age and architectural styles of these buildings is a positive trait. For example, the old livery building located along the outlet contributes to the sense of history that cannot be recreated. The antiquity of this building provides a glimpse into the past and emanates a sense of place in time.
Comments to: crs@uvm.edu Reviewed on 3/28/97
