United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Southwestern Region

Facility Master Plan

Tonto National Forest

July 2016

2 0 1 6 T o n t o F a c i l i t y M a s t e r P l a n P l a n

Tonto National Forest Facility Master Plan

Approved by: ______________________ ________ CALVIN JOYNER Date Regional Forester

Recommended by: ______________________ _______ _____________________ ________ NEIL J. BOSWORTH Date DANNY R. MONTOYA Date Forest Supervisor Director of Engineering

Reviewed by: ______________________ _______ _____________________ _______ MICAH GRONDIN Date MARK SANDO Date District Ranger District Ranger Cave Creek RD Globe RD

GARY HANNA Date DEBBIE CRESS Date District Ranger District Ranger Mesa RD Payson and Pleasant Valley RDs

KELLY JARDINE Date District Ranger Tonto Basin RD

CHRISTINE CRAWFORD Date

Engineering and Minerals Staff

Prepared by: ______________________ ________ in Coordination with NorthStar LEANNE MURPHY, P.E. Date Technology Corporation

Facilities Engineer

Table of Contents

SECTION 1 - EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

SECTION 2 – BACKGROUND

SECTION 3 – FINANCIAL BALANCE SHEET

SECTION 4 - MANAGEMENT DIRECTION

SECTION 5 - REVIEW OF ADMINISTRATIVE SITES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 TONTO NATIONAL FOREST SUPERVISOR’S OFFICE

5.2 CAVE CREEK RANGER DISTRICT

5.2.1 Cave Creek Administrative Site

5.2.2 Ashdale Administrative Site

5.2.3 Humbolt Lookout

5.2.4 Tangle Creek Administrative Site

5.2.5 Copper Creek Guard Station

5.3 GLOBE RANGER DISTRICT

5.3.1 Globe Administrative Site

5.3.2 Signal Peak Lookout

5.4 MESA RANGER DISTRICT

5.4.1 Mesa Ranger District Office

5.4.2 Goldfield Administrative Site

5.4.3 Sunflower Administrative Site

5.4.4 Blue Point Administrative Site

5.4.5 Tortilla Administrative Site

5.4.6 Mt Ord Lookout

5.5 PAYSON RANGER DISTRICT

5.5.1 Payson Administrative Site

5.5.2 Diamond Point Lookout

5.5.3 Indian Gardens Administrative Site

5.6 PLEASANT VALLEY RANGER DISTRICT

5.6.1 Pleasant Valley Administrative Site

5.6.2 Aztec Peak Lookout

5.6.3 Colcord Lookout

5.6.4 McFadden Lookout

5.7 TONTO BASIN RANGER DISTRICT

5.7.1 Roosevelt Visitor Center and District Office

5.7.2 Tonto Basin Work Center

5.7.3 Punkin Center Administrative Site

5.7.4 A-Cross Administrative Site

SECTION 6.0 - 2016 TONTO NF FACILITY MASTER PLAN SUMMARY

6.1 Complete List of Tonto NF Admin. Facilities with FMP Recommendations

6.2 Complete List of Buildings Recommended as “Acquire”

SECTION 7 - APPENDIX

7.1 Abbreviations and Definitions

SECTION 1 - EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The purpose of the Facility Master Plan (FMP) is to provide guidance on acquisition, upgrading, maintenance and disposal of National Forests’ facilities portfolio, including administrative sites and major visitor centers, necessary to support operations and public service. It does not include recreational or special use sites.

The Southwestern Region’s six Arizona Forest’s unique approach to updating their FMPs included collaborating and developing a common charter and contracting an independent team of retired Forest Service experts (referred to hereafter as NorthStar) with extensive experience in facilities management. NorthStar completed a comprehensive set of strategic recommendations for each forest, focusing on optimizing facility management while meeting budget projections.

Nationwide, reduction of Forest Service facilities has not been commensurate with budgets and staff reductions. A recent national report concluded that approximately 20% of the funding required to maintain facilities to standard was actually available for maintenance activities. This statistic is true for the Tonto National Forest (NF).

The Tonto NF facilities portfolio consists of 125 owned and 5 leased administrative buildings totaling 201,031 Gross Square Feet (GSF). The workforce includes 253 full time equivalents (FTEs) or 707 GSF per FTE of office and warehouse space (excluding housing). The Tonto exceeds the national recommended average of 500 GSF per FTE and Region Three’s average of 550 GSF per FTE for spaces combined. The excessive ratio of FTE to GSF for the Tonto results in a decreases of the Forest’s annual budget allocation by $60,000. The current replacement value (CRV) for the 125 owned buildings is just over $39 million.

Based on industry standards, an estimated $1.2 million (3% of CRV) is required annually to maintain the Tonto NF’s facility portfolio and meet the national facilities condition rating goal of "Fair to Good”. The Tonto NF’s allocation is generally $400,000 although only $250,000 is available after overhead and taps for actual maintenance activities, or approximately 21% of the need. Since maintenance budgets are likely to remain flat, a more aggressive effort to reduce or manage existing facilities is necessary.

SIGNIFICANT RECOMMENDATIONS:

CONVEYANCE OPPORTUNITIES

The Cave Creek Ranger District (RD) administrative site is underutilized and has the potential to generate significant revenue for building needs. This 158-acre site is adjacent to large luxury homes and a golf course. Operations could be consolidated to approximately 10 acres, freeing the remaining land for conveyance and possibly funding new owned offices for Cave Creek RD and Globe RD.

The Payson RD has been successful in conveying a portion of administrative land which will fund the design and construction of a new office. Additional land is planned for conveyance to fund a consolidated warehouse.

Recommendation:

• Use the Preliminary Project Analysis (PPA) process to evaluate potential properties for conveyance and use revenue generated to address Tonto NF facility priorities.

SUB-STANDARD OFFICE

The Globe RD Office and accessory buildings have multiple deficiencies including lack of compliance with federal accessibility guidelines and standards, and insufficient modifications to make them compliant and meet code. In addition, half of the 4.5-acre site is unusable due to steep terrain restricting parking and circulation. Finally, driving to the site requires winding through neighborhood streets making it difficult to find. NorthStar’s team ranks Globe RD as the most deficient Forest Service office of the Arizona forests.

Recommendation:

• On an interim basis, lease a fully compliant building for the District Ranger and primary staff offices, along with a reception area for visitors.

• Complete a PPA to evaluate leasing or constructing a new permanent office building and fire warehouse on a suitable site. Investigate a possible land exchange with the City using another portion of Forest Service land.

UNDERUTILIZED LEASED OFFICES

The Tonto SO and Mesa RD offices are significantly underutilized and will be more so once the target organization proposed in the “Pathways to Lasting Success” effort is fully implemented.

Current direction for federal office utilization rates is approximately 200 GSF/FTE. The SO’s rate is 335 GSF/FTE and Mesa’s office is 683 GSF/FTE. In addition, the Tonto SO’s location is also problematic from an image and safety standpoint.

Recommendation:

• On an interim basis, consider renegotiating the SO lease to reduce the footprint if feasible or solicit other tenants to share space.

• Consider collocating office space with other governmental agencies, improving utilization and reducing expenses.

• Complete a PPA determining whether collocating Cave Creek and Mesa offices is feasible.

A balance sheet showing the maintenance budget shortfall for the Forest is shown in Section 3.

Note: NorthStar’s recommendations for decommissioning facilities currently being utilized are long-term recommendations. “Decommission” will not be entered into I-Web until decisions for accommodating occupants or facility use are finalized. In the interim, keep as “Retain for Existing Use”.

SECTION 2 – BACKGROUND

Reason for the 2016 Facility Master Plan Update

FSM 7312.1 requires each National Forest update their FMP every 10 years, reflecting management objectives established in the Forest Land and Resource Management Plan; identifying assets necessary to perform its mission and house its employees; and exploring the financial feasibility of operating and maintaining a portfolio. The portfolio should include the appropriate mix of leased and owned facilities for the management environment, including reasonable projected future budgets.

Use of the Facility Master Plan

The FMP is a planning tool guiding the management of existing facilities, providing the basis for sound decisions for subsequent acquisition, management, or decommissioning activities.

Previous Facility Master Plans

Since completion of the previous Tonto 2002 FMP, the Forest has undergone substantial changes in resource management objectives as well as in the political landscape, resulting in shifts in on-the-ground operations and management, shifts in personnel, declining facility budgets, aging facility portfolio, and decline in the overall condition and quality of facilities. In addition, facility needs have changed.

Process Used

This FMP was a cooperative effort between the Southwestern Region’s six Arizona Forests and NorthStar Technology Corporation (NorthStar), contracted by the Enterprise Technical Services Team (ETS). The Arizona Forests created a project charter establishing FMP goals, objectives, standards, timelines and deliverables, and was signed in summer 2015 by each forest supervisor, regional facilities program manager and the regional director of engineering. Four teams were created to participate in this effort: a core team of forest facilities engineers; an extended team of forest and regional engineers; an interdisciplinary team for each forest; and a third-party contractor.

Each represented the Forests by gathering each Forests’ data, reviewing, and providing comments on the draft FMPs through finalization. For additional details, refer to the project charter in Appendix 7.2.

The recommendations made by NorthStar follow Forest Service manual direction to categorize buildings as “Retain for Existing Use”, “Retain for Alternate Use”, “Decommission” or “Acquire”.

For additional details, refer to Appendix 7.1 for the building category definitions.

Note: NorthStar’s recommendations for decommissioning facilities that are currently being utilized are long-term. “Decommissioned" will not be entered in I-Web until decisions for accommodating occupants or facility use are finalized. In the meantime, enter “Retain for Existing Use” in I-Web.

In most cases, historic structures with no existing use are categorized as “Retain for Alternate Use” until further evaluation by the Forest and if necessary, consultation with State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). For a few that have been significantly modified or the character of the site has been diminished, decommissioning was recommended.

Some recommendations may need refinement or further analysis by the Tonto NF and/or union involvement before implementing. Once the final FMP is signed, amendments can be added at any time to document changes in management direction. The Tonto NF recently completed a major workforce evaluation “Pathways to Lasting Success”, which guides the future organization and will be instrumental in finalizing facilities and administrative site decisions.

SECTION 3 – FINANCIAL BALANCE SHEET

OVERALL PORTFOLIO STATUS

The current facilities portfolio is not financially sustainable at present budget levels. The 2016 work plan indicates approximately $400,000 is received annually in CP09 and QMQM funding combined.

After salaries, travel, training and supplies are covered, only approximately $250,000 is available for the actual, estimated $1.2 million maintenance needs, resulting in annually increasing deferred maintenance (DM), substantial devaluation of assets, and more facilities falling into the “Poor” category.

• Identify and decommission as many unnecessary buildings as possible.

• Replace major structures in “Poor” condition with efficient buildings or leased facilities that meet standards.

SECTION 4 - MANAGEMENT DIRECTION

National Direction

The FMP responds to national direction (FSM 7312) and recent national initiatives, including "Freeze the Footprint” and “Sustainability” executive orders, and current USDA Space Policy (USDA Circular 1620-1).

Forest Goals

The primary Forest goal is providing safe, clean, attractive, efficient, and accessible facilities for approximately 270 permanent employees plus seasonal employees with projected reduction to 240 permanent employees over the next 5 years. Considerations should be given to workforce fluctuation through the next decade and providing quality service to people visiting the Forest.

Additional goals include reducing fixed costs through consolidation and decommissioning of unnecessary buildings and sites, along with identifying the proper mix of owned and leased facilities to support the mission and can be maintained to standard within projected budgets.

Budget Trends and Sources of Funding for Project Implementation

This plan is based on the projection that budgets remain relatively constant over the next decade, including primary facility acquisition and maintenance fund codes, CMFC and CP09. The Forest uses most of its CMFC allocations to fund maintenance of recreation sites and facilities. Amounts that remain after funding recreation maintenance are used to fund minor construction projects (those less than $250,000).

Routine maintenance of administrative facilities (annual and deferred) is generally funded by CP09 while major maintenance or construction projects (in excess of $250,000) are funded by regional CMFC, which requires competition at the regional level. A regional project list is developed and prioritized approximately every 10 years, which is reviewed and re-prioritized annually by a regional team. The Region’s available funds are limited, which makes obtaining regional major project funds difficult and this likely will continue during this 10- year planning period.

Quarters are maintained with QMQM funds, which accumulate through collection of rent from the occupants. Unfortunately, QMQM rarely collects enough to maintain quarter’s facilities.

Leasing facilities is desirable if a forest’s needs are high and their project is low on the regional priority list. In addition, leasing is also an appropriate strategy to fund new facilities requiring significant annual maintenance when budgets are not adequate for existing facilities. Leasing is also a viable strategy to cover temporary, fluctuating peaks, and seasonal needs.

SECTION 5 - REVIEW OF ADMINISTRATIVE SITES AND

RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 TONTO NATIONAL FOREST SUPERVISOR’S OFFICE

Workforce

As noted in the 2015 “Pathways to Lasting Success” (PLS), the Tonto NF’s work force planning effort, the Forest’s future workforce will decrease from 270 FTEs to approximately 240 FTEs over the next 5 years. The projected PLS Supervisor’s Office (SO) workforce is 96.

Office

The SO has been located in a GSA leased building since it was constructed approximately 30 years ago. The 32,162 SF office building is located in an older commercial area of Phoenix approximately 4 miles from the Sky Harbor Airport. The current 15-year lease, initiated in 2012 and expiring in 2027, is $684,000 annually.

The area of central Phoenix in which the SO is located is declining, has several adult themed nightclubs nearby, and has a high crime rate, with a recent shooting across the street. Due to the neighborhood, the complex is secured by walls with concertina wire along the top, wrought iron fencing, and an electronic gate that is closed after office hours to protect employees and reduce vandalism.

The building was recently sold to a large corporation which is not as responsive as the previous owner was to maintenance and repairs needs. The office has been updated with carpeting and systems furniture and is attractive. The building does not fully meet current accessibility standards such as door clearances on restrooms. Based on a workforce of 96 FTEs, the building is underutilized with a rate of 335 (RSF)/FTE. The USDA standard is 150 of Net SF/FTE plus circulation and special space for a total of approximately 200 Gross or Rentable SF/FTE.

• Initiate a PPA to consider collocating or reducing leased space from 32,000 to 20,000 RSF of modern, barrier-free, and attractive space in a safe location in the Phoenix area for 96 FTSs pending early termination of the current lease. The cost per SF will likely be higher, yet may not exceed the current total cost.

• Complete an accessibility survey to determine improvements necessary to be compliant with accessibility standards.

• Make improvements to office space to utilize space more efficiently by: reconfiguring and reducing existing cubical sizes, converting private offices into shared offices, removing walls if necessary to accommodate more employees, or reducing the SF of the total office space.

• Seek partner agencies to share the building and lease costs along with improving utilization, or move into another agency’s building.

Tonto NF Supervisor’s Office Building Data:

Tonto National Forest Supervisor’s Office Lease

Recommendation: Retain for Existing Use

RSF FTE PSE Other FTEO RSF/

FTEO

32,162 96 - - - 335

Other: Lease Expiration: 2027 Lease Cost: $684,000 Cost/FTEO: $7,125

5.1.1 Tonto National Forest Supervisor’s Office Site Map

Other buildings under the management of the SO:

• Due to the nature of the fire operations and since these facilities are located at the Williams Gateway Airport in Mesa, AZ no changes are recommended.

Phoenix Interagency Fire Center, Mobilization Center, and Gateway Air Tanker Base Building Data:

Phoenix Interagency Fire Center Lease

7,500 21 - - - 357

Other: Lease Expiration: 2020 Lease Cost: $293,544 Cost/FTEO: $13,978

Phoenix Mobilization Center Lease

8,039 - - - - -

Other: Lease Expiration: 2021 Lease Cost: $166,086 Cost/FTEO: FTEs accounted for with PIFC.

Gateway Air Tanker Base Lease

Other: RSF combined with Phoenix Interagency Fire Center. FTEs accounted for with PIFC. Improvements completed in 2010.

5.2 CAVE CREEK RANGER DISTRICT

Workforce

The projected PLS Cave Creek Ranger District workforce is 19 FTEs located at the complex, 7 FTEs in the Fire Office/Warehouse and 12 FTEs in the District office. An additional 9 FTEs (zoned positions) have primary duty stations at other locations. Office space utilization was not calculated, yet based on visual observation the space is underutilized. The District is not included in the Four Forest Restoration Initiative.

5.2.1 Cave Creek Administrative Site

The 158-acre administrative site is located in Carefree, near Scottsdale, Arizona adjacent to multimillion-dollar homes and a golf course. The site is bounded on the north by Cave Creek Road and to the south by Powerline Road (see aerial below). The newly leased 5,200 SF modular office building is on a 5-year rental agreement to provide flexibility for future needs. The metal Fire Office/Warehouse building is in good condition and meets the needs of the fire organization.

• Continue leasing the modular building until a permanent solution is achieved.

• Complete a comprehensive PPA studying options to vacate the site since it is adjacent to a luxury residential area which has high property values. Evaluation of alternatives should include at a minimum:

o Convey entire site, using funds to relocate on lower value land o Remain on site long-term and consolidate operations on approximately 10 acres near Cave Creek Road and sell remainder of property o Collocate or consolidate with the Mesa District Office

Note: Up to 40 acres can be sold under current conveyance legislation and more acreage can be sold with special legislation.

Aerial View of Cave Creek Administrative Site and Adjacent Properties to North and West

Cave Creek Administrative Site Building Data:

CAVE CREEK DISTRICT OFFICE (MODULAR) Lease

Recommendation: Retain for Existing Use*

5,200 12 - - - 433

Other: Lease Expiration: 2021 (new 5-year lease) Lease Cost: $113,640 Cost/FTEO:

CAVE CREEK WAREHOUSE 012001

GSF CRV DM AM Yr Const

3,825 $665,902 $50,493 $19,977 1997

Other:

CAVE CREEK FIRE OFFICE 012006

2,475 $597,767 $56,823 $17,933 2002

CAVE CREEK WAREHOUSE PARKING COVER 012008

1,400 $365,593 $0 $10,968 2012

Other Buildings on Site Less than 500 SF:

Building Name BLDG ID

RSF/

GSF CRV DM AM Year

Const Recommendation

CAVE CREEK BARN

(LARGE) 012002 462 $56,641 $0 $1,699 1997 Retain for Existing

Use*

CAVE CREEK

STORAGE SHED

(SMALL)

012005 100 $8,092 $0 $243 1985 Retain for Existing Use*

* These buildings are designated “Retain for Existing Use” until a PPA is completed for the entire site and a final disposition method is determined.

5.2.1.1 Cave Creek Administrative Site Plan

5.2.2 Ashdale Administrative Site

NorthStar team did not visit this site due to time constraints. From the site photos the determination was that an analysis is warranted to determine the need for the site.

Historical Background:

The site was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935 and consisted of an office, ranger residence, barn, garage, and oil house (now paint shed). The office, ranger residence, and barn have been razed while the garage and paint shed are still standing but have been subjected to minor alterations over the years. The site is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP).

The Ashdale pump house building and water system was constructed in 2001 and is currently inactive.

• The Ashdale garage, a 1930’s era building, appears to be modified with roll up doors.

Determine whether storage needs can be relocated and then decommission building.

• Perform assessments needed to decommission the site, including the water system.

Ashdale Administrative Site Building Data:

ASHDALE GARAGE 011702

Recommendation: Decommission

2850 $49,616 $49,616 $1,488 1934

Other:

ASHDALE PAINT SHED 011703

48 $3,884 $3,884 $117 1939

Other:

ASHDALE PUMPHOUSE 011705

96 $29,189 $0 $876 2001

5.2.2.1 Ashdale Administrative Site Plan

5.2.3 Humbolt Lookout

NorthStar team did not visit this site due to time constraints. The site includes a fire lookout, washroom, and communications building along with multiple communication towers owned and operated under permit with the FS.

Historical Background:

The lookout tower was constructed in 1958 by the Civil Aeronautics Administration (now the FAA) in conjunction with the building of an air navigation communication facility. This structure replaced an L-4 lookout house set on a native stone foundation built by the Forest Service in 1940’s. A microwave building was constructed in the late 1980’s and a washroom building constructed in the early 2000’s is also on-site. The site was determined as ineligible for the National Register.

• Retain the site and buildings for existing use.

Humbolt Lookout Building Data:

HUMBOLDT LOOKOUT TOWER 011901

196 $68,845 $13,128 $2,065 1936

HUMBOLDT WASHROOM 011902

75 $27,171 $5,117 $815 2000

HUMBOLDT COMMUNICATIONS BLDG 011903

200 $115,489 $35,395 $3,465 1988

5.2.4 Tangle Creek Administrative Site

NorthStar team did not visit this site due to time constraints. The Tangle Creek site includes a cabin, barn, pit toilet, and water system which includes a spring source, water storage tank, and pump house.

Historical Background:

The site was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the mid-1930s. A front porch was added to the cabin in 1978. The site has been determined to be eligible for the National Register.

• Develop the site and buildings for alternate use as possible rental in the cabin rental program.

• Decommission the water system, including the pump house building, unless the cabin rental program decides operate and maintain the system.

Tangle Creek Administrative Site Building Data:

TANGLE CREEK CABIN 012101

Recommendation: Retain for Alternate Use

582 $162,685 $36,780 $4,881 1937

TANGLE CREEK BARN 012102

329 $60,503 $0 $1,815 1937

TANGLE CREEK PUMPHOUSE 012103

25 $11,402 $11,402 $342 1965

TANGLE CREEK PIT TOILET 012104

19 $11,076 $0 $332 1937

5.2.4.1 Tangle Creek Administrative Site Plan

5.2.5 Copper Creek Guard Station

NorthStar team did not visit this site due to time constraints. The site includes a stone one-room cabin, tack shed, pit toilet, and windmill.

Historical Background:

The cabin and the tack shed were constructed in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) while the pit toilet, corral and windmill postdate the initial Depression Era construction. The construction of the buildings does not appear to have conformed to a Region 3 standard plan but instead followed unique outlines contributing to its inclusion to the National Register of Historic Places.

• Decommission all of the buildings by letting the buildings degrade over time into the natural environment. Remove all unstable and unsafe portions of the buildings, however, keep the stone walls intact.

Copper Creek Guard Station Building Data:

COPPER CREEK CABIN 012301

338 $62,987 $500 $1,890 1941

Other:

COPPER CREEK TACK SHED 012302

115 $14,099 $500 $423 1957

Other:

COPPER CREEK PIT TOILET 012303

15 $5,830 $500 $175 1935

5.2.5.1 Copper Creek Guard Station Site Plan

5.3 GLOBE RANGER DISTRICT

Workforce

The projected PLS Globe Ranger District workforce is 31 FTEs including 27 in multiple buildings onsite and 4 additional FTEs (zoned positions) at other locations. The District is not included in the Four Forest Restoration Initiative and it is expected that the workforce will remain constant for this planning period.

5.3.1 Globe Administrative Site

The Globe Administrative site is located in the southern portion of Globe, Arizona on a Forest Service-owned site. The site was donated for use by the Forest Service and includes a reversionary clause which may limit sale options. The site is a restricted complex surrounded by residential property with no room for expansion. Parking and traffic circulation is very limited and the location is difficult to find. Ingress and egress from the site is dangerous because of the high volume of traffic on Six Shooter Road. The 2002 Tonto NF FMP described the site as being nearly impossible to find because of poor signing, poorly laid out municipal street system, and the distance from the main highway and city center. The District is not meeting the needs of the visiting public because of the site location and access. Office space utilization was not calculated. Based on visual observation the space is underutilized.

The Globe District Office was constructed in the style of the other historic buildings on the site but does not meet current standards for accessibility, fire codes, etc. The degree of accessibility severely limits the ability to serve the public at this site.

The conference room is located in a separate building and has steps at the entrance which makes this building inaccessible. Due to the configuration of both of the buildings, it is not feasible to provide accessible facilities.

The Globe fire warehouse and annex are listed on the National List of Historic Places. The warehouse has been significantly modified with new doors, shower installation, added fire escape and should be considered for removal from the list.

Office and storage space is extremely cramped. There is little space to greet the visiting public.

Employee offices are split between m u l t i p l e buildings, causing communication problems.

There is inadequate parking space for the public and employees. The site does not lend itself to expansion because of the terrain and approximately 50% of the 4.5-acre site is not usable. A typical full service district administrative site with warehousing and fleet should be no less than 5 acres up to a maximum of 10 acres of useable land.

The site and the facilities are among the most deficient of any district compound located on an Arizona forest.

The City of Globe has water wells on a Forest-owned tract of land that may provide an option for a land exchange for a new administrative site that could be beneficial to both the City and the District.

• Lease a temporary building, that complies with federal accessibility guidelines and standards to serve as a primary public contact point and may also include offices for the district ranger and primary staff.

• Complete a PPA to evaluate a new a suitable site for a permanent office and fire warehouse.

Consider use of the site as a work center.

• Consider a land exchange with the City using the land with the water wells in the trade.

• Minimize expenditures at this site to operation – no improvements.

• Utilize funds from Forest conveyances to apply to this high priority need.

• In the long-term, after coordinating with State Historic Preservation Office to remove buildings from the National List of Historic Places, decommission buildings and consider relinquishing use of site for administrative purposes.

Globe Administrative Site Building Data:

GLOBE OFFICE ANNEX 021301

2,525 $907,303 $97,391 $27,219 1935

GLOBE DISTRICT OFFICE 021302

Recommendation: Decommission*

1,372 $492,998 $25,867 $14,790 1976

GLOBE FIRE WAREHOUSE 021303

2,550 $660,470 $4,427 $19,814 1935

GLOBE RANGE/FUELS OFFICE 021310

985 $353,938 $1,476 $10,618 1999

GLOBE HOTSHOT OFFICE 021313

915 $328,785 $27,342 $9,864 ?

GLOBE SAW SHED 021315

840 $101,123 $0 $3,034 2009

GLOBE PARKING COVER (UPPER) 021316

1,000 $359,328 $0 $10,780 2008

GLOBE PARKING COVER (FIRE) 021317

3,220 $1,157,036 $0 $34,711 2010

# GSF CRV DM AM Year

Const Recommendation

GLOBE FLAMMABLE

HEN HOUSE 021304 105 $47,497 $47,497 $1,425 1935 Retain for

Existing Use

GLOBE CONCRETE

HAZMAT STORAGE

BLDG

021306 132 $24,077 $0 $722 1930 Retain for

Existing Use

GLOBE METAL

BOAT SHED

(UPPER)

021307 320 $58,368 $0 $1,751 1980 Retain for

Existing Use

GLOBE HOSE SHED 021308 184 $33,562 $0 $1,007 1992

Retain for

Existing Use

GLOBE SIGN SHED

(UPPER) 021312 200 $24,077 $18,966 $722 1996

Retain for Existing Use

*This building is designated as “Decommission” in anticipation of implementing the long-term goal of vacating the site once an acceptable alternative site has been found. The building should be shown in I-Web as “Retain for Existing Use” until a funded plan is in place to replace all or some of the buildings.

5.3.1.1 Globe Administrative Site Plan

5.3.2 Signal Peak Lookout

The FMP team did not visit this site due to time constraints. The site includes a fire lookout, cabin, vault toilet, storage shed, and communications building along with multiple communication towers owned and operated under permit with the FS.

Historical background: See Addendum 1

• Retain the site and buildings for existing use

Signal Peak Lookout Building Data:

Building Name BLDG ID # GSF CRV DM AM Year

Const Recommendation

SIGNAL PEAK CABIN 021401 397 $147,722 $0 $4,432 1938

Retain for

Existing Use

SIGNAL PEAK

LOOKOUT TOWER 021402 49 $17,071 $2,789 $512 1934

Retain for Existing Use

SIGNAL PEAK

COMMUNICATIONS

BLDG

021403 192 $109,965 $0 $3,299 1988 Retain for Existing Use

SIGNAL PEAK

STORAGE SHED 021404 96 $11,557 $2,411 $347 1938 Retain for

Existing Use

SIGNAL PEAK

VAULT TOILET 021405 96 $55,508 $0 $1,665 2011 Retain for

5.4 MESA RANGER DISTRICT

Workforce

The projected PLS Mesa Ranger District planned workforce is 15 FTEs and includes 4 FTEs (zoned positions) that will report to other locations. The District is not included in the Four Forest Restoration Initiative and the workforce is expected to remain constant throughout this planning period.

5.4.1 Mesa Ranger District Office

The 10,250 SF office is in a leased building managed by the Forest Service and is located near a commercial and retail shopping area. The building is one of the most functional and modern ranger district offices in Arizona. The current lease that expires in 2022 is $346,963 annually.

Based on the proposed 15 FTE workforce the building will be underutilized with a rate of 668 Rentable SF (RSF)/FTE. The USDA standard is 150 net SF/FTE plus circulation and special space totaling approximately 200 gross or RSF/FTE, an indication that the office is approximately three times larger than needed.

• Complete a PPA to evaluate the following options at a minimum:

o Collocate or consolidate with the Cave Creek District Office at this site or another location (see Cave Creek recommendations).

o Approach Maricopa County about collocating at Usery Mountain Regional Park for an improved point of contact with forest visitors.

o Consider a new consolidated Mesa/Cave Creek-owned office at or near the Goldfield

Work Center.

o Consider a new owned or leased office centrally located with two work centers located at Goldfield and Cave Creek.

Mesa District Office Building Data:

Mesa Ranger District Office Lease

10,250 15* - - 15* 683

Other: Lease Expiration:

Lease Cost: $346,963; Cost/FTEO: $23,130 *15 FTEs based on proposed PLS organization

5.4.1.1 Mesa Ranger District Office Site Map

5.4.2 Goldfield Administrative Site

The approximately 23-acre former ranch includes structures built in 1963, several buildings added by the Tonto since acquired, along with multiple small buildings, metal storage containers, and a trailer pad/RV parking area for seasonal employees or volunteers.

The 2002 FMP identified the need to construct additional warehouse and office space. Due to the changes made in the Tonto organization, there has been a substantial increase in the number of FTEs and volunteers utilizing the site. In 2015, five RV parking areas were added to the site.

The site is well organized, functional, and attractive yet the water and wastewater systems need improvements and a climate controlled, consolidated warehouse is needed.

Historical Background: See Addendum 1.

• Complete a PPA to investigate the options of additional fire and hotshot warehouse and office space.

• Prepare an engineering report to analyze the impacts of the proposed future expansion to the existing infrastructure. The report should show comparisons of the costs incurred by existing use v. water and wastewater system upgrades and improvements, compare RV site construction and maintenance v. local trailer pad rental, and consider additional improvements to the RV parking areas proposed to accommodate seasonal employees or volunteers.

• Retain the site and all storage buildings until a consolidated warehouse is constructed to replace them.

• Complete water and wastewater improvements.

Goldfield Administrative Site Building Data:

GOLDFIELD FIRE OFFICE 032403

810 $194,037 $0 $5,821 1963

GOLDFIELD HOTSHOT OFFICE 032404

1,475 $272,627 $11,496 $8,179 1963

GOLDFIELD WORKSHOP 032405

960 $165,765 $0 $4,973 1963

GOLDFIELD HOTSHOT WORKSHOP 032406

656 $113,273 $0 $3,398 2014

GOLDFIELD TACK ROOM 032407

600 $72,960 $0 $2,189 1963

GOLDFIELD STORAGE AWNING 032410

630 $51,327 $0 $1,540 1990

GOLDFIELD PARKING COVER #1 032415

925 $75,362 $0 $2,261 1990

GOLDFIELD PARKING COVER #2 032416

2,500 $203,680 $2,256 $6,110 1996

GOLDFIELD PARKING COVER #3 032417

5,000 $407,360 $1,119 $12,221 1997

GOLDFIELD WELLNESS ROOM 032420

600 $143,731 $0 $4,312 1997

GOLDFIELD CONFERENCE & LOCKER ROOM BLDG 032421

2,715 $650,384 $0 $19,512 2000

GOLDFIELD CREW QUARTERS 032422

1,250 $310,080 $0 $9,302 2001

GOLDFIELD SHADE RAMADA (LOWER) 032425

2,160 $175,980 $0 $5,279 1997

Buildings on Site Less than 500 SF:

Building Name BLDG ID

RSF/

GSF CRV DM AM Year

Const Recommendation

GOLDFIELD

HAZMAT SHED 032402 400 $120,627 $3,648 $3,619 1987 Retain for

Existing Use

GOLDFIELD

PARKING COVER #4 032408 468 $38,129 $0 $1,144 ? Retain for

Existing Use

GOLDFIELD ENG

STORAGE AWNING 032409 160 $13,036 $0 $391 2011 Retain for

Existing Use

GOLDFIELD MISC

STORAGE 032419 60 $4,815 $0 $144 1996 Retain for

Existing Use

GOLDFIELD WATER

TREATMENT BLDG 032423 192 $57,901 $0 $1,737 2008 Retain for

5.4.2.1 Goldfield Administrative Site Plan

5.4.3 Sunflower Administrative Site

This 396-acre historic site includes a historic ranger house/office and barn, and generator house.

The house is in fair condition yet is rodent infested. The barn was modified, adding a concrete block wall. The entire site is in an area at risk to flooding causing the house basement to flood regularly.

The 2002 FMP determined the house and barn had deficient electrical systems making them unsafe for occupancy.

A 2010 flood inundated the site, requiring installation of low sandbag levees, which are not adequate for higher floods at the site. State Route (SR) 87 provided convenient access to the site until the highway was realigned by Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). As a result of the realignment, the site is located at the end of a spur road; requiring traveling through private property.

A significant investment was made in 2000 to construct new vault toilet buildings, concrete accessible ramps, three shade ramadas with picnic tables, and an amphitheater in anticipation of a partnership with a local University for educational purposes. Unfortunately, the site was never used for education since the partnership never materialized. The site is gated, receiving sporadic use.

Historic Background: See Addendum 1.

• Develop the site for alternate use and retain the vault toilets and ramadas for existing use.

Possible alternative uses may include entering into the cabin rental program, use as a visitor center, or a headquarters for TRAL.

• Conduct a hydrological study to identify methods to mitigate flood risks at the site.

Sunflower Administrative Site Building Data:

SUNFLOWER BUNKHOUSE 032601

1,181 $292,964 $6,080 $8,789 1935

SUNFLOWER WORKSHOP/OFFICE 032602

2,076 $497,310 $60,800 $14,919 1935

Other:

SUNFLOWER MAIN RAMADA 032607

924 $75,280 $0 $2,258 2000

SUNFLOWER TOILET BUILDINGS #1 & #2 032609 & 032610

924 $75,280 $0 $2,258 2000

Other: Retain toilet buildings for day use site – they are out of the flood plain

Buildings on Site Less than 500 SF:

# GSF CRV DM AM Year

Const Recommendation

SUNFLOWER HISTORIC

GENERATOR SHED 032603 276 $83,233 $12,160 $2,497 1975 Retain for

Alternate Use

SUNFLOWER FUEL

SHED 032604 143 $43,124 $0 $1,294 1975 Retain for

Alternate Use

SUNFLOWER TOOL

SHED 032605 64 $7,782 $0 $233 1975 Retain for

Alternate Use

SUNFLOWER CONTROL

BUILDING 032606 240 $72,376 $0 $2,171 2000 Retain for

Alternate Use

SUNFLOWER RAMADA

#2 032608 450 $36,662 $0 $1,100 2000 Retain for

5.4.3.1 Sunflower Administrative Site Plan

5.4.4 Blue Point Administrative Site

NorthStar team did not visit this site due to time constraints. This site is under permit with Salt River Tubing. The organization uses this site to wash down there buses. There is a FS-owned well house building and water system. The water system is currently being used by the permittee.

• Decommission the well house building by transferring ownership to permittee, Salt River Tubing Recreation.

• Develop the well by conveyance under permit. Operation and maintenance of water system shall be the responsibility of the Permittee.

Blue Point Administrative Site Building Data:

Building Name BLDG ID # GSF CRV DM AM Year

Const Recommendation

BLUE PT WELL

HOUSE 032202 140 $42,220 $2,755 $1,267 2008 Decommission

5.4.5 Tortilla Administrative Site

NorthStar did not visit this site due to time constraints. The Tortilla Work Center site includes a pump house, water treatment plant, and an office with storage bays. The site is currently used by recreation employees. The site has a water system and wastewater system that service an adjacent Tortilla Campground recreation site. This site is currently classified as a joint recreation and administrative site.

• Develop the site for alternate use and have a concessionaire take over the entire Tortilla site.

Site is currently classified as a joint recreation site and administrative site. Consider converting to a recreation site. Consider decommissioning of water system.

• Complete an analysis and engineering report to evaluate options.

Tortilla Administrative Site Building Data:

TORTILLA OFFICE/ STORAGE BUILDING 032306

1,250 $449,160 $0 $13,475 2006

TORTILLA PUMPHOUSE 032302

170 $76,900 $2,771 $2,307 1970

TORTILLA WATER TREATMENT BUILDING 032303

300 $135,706 $7,757 $4,071 1980

5.4.6 Mt Ord Lookout

The FMP team did not visit this site due to time constraints. The site includes a fire lookout, cabin, and communications building along with multiple communication towers owned and operated under permit with the FS.

Mt. Ord Lookout Building Data:

Building Name BLDG ID

RSF/

GSF CRV DM AM Year

Const Recommendation

MT ORD

COMMUNICATIONS

BLDG

032501 179 $102,520 $9,151 $3,076 1984 Retain for Existing Use

MT ORD CABIN 032502 179 $102,520 $9,151 $3,076 1984 Retain for Existing Use

MT ORD LOOKOUT

TOWER 032504 280 $97,548 $0 $2,926 1984 Retain for Existing

Use

5.5 PAYSON RANGER DISTRICT

Workforce

The projected PLS Payson Ranger District workforce 48 FTEs. The employees currently work in multiple buildings and one FTE (zoned position) has a primary duty station at another location. The District is included in the Four Forest Restoration Initiative yet expected increases through this planning period in workforce from this initiative was reflected in the PLS study.

The Payson Ranger District and the Pleasant Valley Ranger District have recently been administratively combined. The 48 FTEs at Payson does not include three FTEs located at Pleasant Valley.

5.5.1 Payson Administrative Site

The site is located in Payson, Arizona on a Forest Service-owned administrative site at the edge of town in a beautiful forested setting with highway frontage. The District recently sold 253 acres of the original 290-acre site to the Town of Payson for an educational campus. The $4.1 million in proceeds from the property sale will fund construction of a new office building (Phase I) for all district employees. Another 21 acres of the site will be sold, generating funds for Phase II construction including a warehouse, fire facility, and covered storage. The remaining 16 acres will serve as the “new” District Office site.

Most of the vacated buildings will be decommissioned upon completion of the new complex. The road maintenance facility will be retained and has the potential to be repurposed in the future.

• The current Phase I design plans are excellent and well thought out; continue implementing construction of the new office building.

• Decommission existing structures after new buildings are constructed.

• Proceed with selling the Phase II tract using existing conveyance legislation, using proceeds for authorized highest priorities.

PAYSON DISTRICT OFFICE 043009

4,152 $1,473,117 $19,050 $44,194 1974

Other: Office space utilization was not calculated since a new office replacement is in progress -based on a visual observation office space is well utilized

PAYSON CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE SHOP 043005

2,400 $613,781 $35,725 $18,413 1994

PAYSON FIRE WAREHOUSE 043010

3,000 $821,256 $50,406 $24,638 1976

PAYSON BARN 043013

1,225 $220,623 $0 $6,619 1994

Other: Decommissioned by disposal in 2016

PAYSON HOTSHOT OFFICE 043021

910 $322,865 $0 $9,686 2013

PAYSON HOTSHOT WORKSHOP 043023

1,040 $246,061 $0 $7,382 2013

Buildings on Site Less than 500 SF:

# GSF CRV DM AM Year

Const Recommendation

PAYSON TACK AND

FEED SHED 043006 326 $38,750 $0 $1,163 1980 Decomission

PAYSON METAL

SHED 043007 130 $15,453 $15,453 $464 1980 Decomission

PAYSON

RECREATION SHED 043008 440 $52,301 $52,301 $1,569 1995 Decomission

5.5.1.1 Payson Administrative Site Plan

5.5.2 Diamond Point Lookout

NorthStar team did not visit the site due to time constraints. The site includes a fire lookout tower with catwalk, cabin, pit toilet, and communication building along with multiple communication towers owned and operated under permit with the FS.

Diamond Point Lookout Building Data:

Building Name BLDG ID # GSF CRV DM AM Year

Const Recommendation

DIAMOND POINT

PIT TOILET 042801 16 $9,135 $274 1941 Retain for Existing

Use

DIAMOND POINT

CABIN 042802 240 $88,177 $34,459 $2,645 1941 Retain for Existing

Use

DIAMOND POINT

LOOKOUT TOWER 042803 144 $49,535 $4,525 $1,486 1936 Retain for Existing

Use

DIAMOND POINT

COMMUNICATIONS

BLDG

042804 130 $49,025 $721 $1,471 1988 Retain for Existing Use

5.5.3 Indian Gardens Administrative Site

NorthStar team did not visit the site due to time constraints. The site include a spring house that contains a spring box. The spring is used as a water source for Kohl’s Ranch, a FS permittee.

• Decommission the spring house by conveying the property to Kohl’s Ranch.

Indian Gardens Building Data:

Building Name BLDG ID # GSF CRV DM AM Year

Const Recommendation

INDIAN GARDENS

SPRING HOUSE 042903 295 $131,761 $0 $3,953 1991 Decommission

5.6 PLEASANT VALLEY RANGER DISTRICT

Workforce

The Payson Ranger District (RD) and Pleasant Valley RD were recently administratively combined.

The projected PLS Pleasant Valley Ranger District workforce is 3 FTEs; the remaining employees’ duty station is Payson.

Currently the fire program rotates 5 engines and crews between Payson RD and Pleasant Valley RD on a weekly basis to ensure one engine is always at the ranger district. Office space utilization was not calculated, yet based on visual observation this office is extremely underutilized.

5.6.1 Pleasant Valley Administrative Site

The approximately 186- acre Pleasant Valley Ranger Station is in Young, AZ, a remote town 60 miles from Payson. The closest town is Globe, AZ, approximately 65 miles away and there are no fully paved roads leading to the area.

The administrative site includes a district office, fire office and warehouse, two modular crew quarters, two residences constructed in 1959, historic ranger residence and ranger office, a historic barn and several accessory buildings.

The expansive clay soils found at the office site have caused foundation damage yet the building remains in good condition and the foundation is repairable.

The fire office, warehouse, and two modular crew quarters are in good condition yet they are not being fully utilized. Pleasant Valley Fire crews rotate to Payson on a weekly basis.

The residences and the historic buildings are in relatively fair condition and are currently unoccupied with no plans to use them for administrative purposes. The Tonto is considering using the historic structures as recreation rentals.

• Complete a PPA to analyze decommissioning the office building and two 50’s era residences by selling or transferring ownership to another agency.

• Decommission one of the two modular bunkhouses and retain the other for fire crews – check with other forests in Region 3 to determine if another forest has a need.

• Decommission the south well pump house.

• Retain the fire office and warehouse for work center operations.

• Divide the property and sell the two historic residences, barn, and acreage.

• As an alternative, complete a sound business plan to determine feasibility of using the historic residences as recreation rentals.

• Encourage collocation with other entities such as ADOT, Gila County, US Postal Service, Fire Department, etc. for buildings not being utilized.

Pleasant Valley Administrative Site Data:

PV DISTRICT OFFICE 051621

5,363 $2,537,739 $25,526 $76,132 2002

PV RANGER'S HOUSE 051601

1,619 $591,103 $43,104 $17,733 1959

PV AFMO'S HOUSE 051602

1,619 $591,103 $24,838 $17,733 1959

PV HISTORIC RANGER'S RESIDENCE 051603

1,206 $440,315 $64,796 $13,209 1934

PV HISTORIC DISTRICT OFFICE 051604

608 $221,983 $28,570 $6,659 1933

PV HISTORIC BARN 051606

780 $187,356 $0 $5,621 1908

Other:

PV RECREATION SHED 051609

900 $216,180 $216,180 $6,485 1975

PV FIRE/OVERFLOW STORAGE 051628

816 $278,325 $11,479 $8,350 1978

PV CREW QTRS B 051618

2,353 $1,152,989 $44,447 $34,590 2001

PV CREW QTRS A 051619

2,353 $1,152,989 $18,880 $34,590 2001

PV FIRE OFFICE 051690

1,320 $624,616 $162,199 $18,738 2004

PV WAREHOUSE 051691

4,400 $1,500,770 $10,448 $45,023 2004

PV WAREHOUSE SHADE COVER 051692

See aerial view below GSF CRV DM AM Yr

Const

1,020 $245,004 $0 $7,350 2008

Aerial View of Fire Office, Warehouse and Shade Cover

Building Name BLDG ID # GSF CRV DM AM Year

Const Recommendation

PV PAINT SHED 051608 120 $71,484 $5,677 $2,145 2002 Decommission

PV SOUTH WELL

PUMPHOUSE 051610 450 $268,063 $5,677 $8,042 1975 Decommission

PV FLAMMABLE

STORAGE SHED 051611 650 $387,202 $13,175 $11,616 1982 Decommission

PV SEED STORAGE 051612 100 $15,853 $15,853 $476 1975 Decommission

PV NORTH WELL

PUMPHOUSE 051631 120 $71,484 $0 $2,145 2002 Retain for Existing

5.6.1.1 Pleasant Valley Administrative Site Plan

5.6.2 Aztec Peak Lookout

NorthStar team did not visit this site due to time constraints. The site includes a fire lookout and a communications building.

• Retain site and buildings for existing use.

Atzec Peak Lookout Building Data:

Building Name BLDG ID # GSF CRV DM AM Year

Const Recommendation

AZTEC PEAK

LOOKOUT TOWER 051102 196 $44,961 $0 $1,349 1975 Retain for Existing

Use

AZTEC PEAK

COMMUNICATIONS

BLDG

051103 100 $37,711 $0 $1,131 1988 Retain for Existing Use

5.6.3 Colcord Lookout

NorthStar team did not visit this site due to time constraints. The site includes a fire lookout and concrete vault toilet.

• Retain site and buildings for existing use.

Colcord Lookout Building Data:

Building Name BLDG ID # GSF CRV DM AM Year

Const Recommendation

COLCORD LOOKOUT

TOWER 051302 196 $89,921 $0 $2,698 1960 Retain for Existing

Use

COLCORD VAULT

TOILET 051303 54 $41,117 $2,306 $1,234 2010 Retain for Existing

Use

5.6.4 McFadden Lookout

NorthStar team did not visit this site due to time constraints. This site includes a fire lookout with a first floor basement.

• Retain site and building for existing use.

McFadden Lookout Building Data:

# GSF CRV DM AM Year

Const Recommendation

MCFADDEN

LOOKOUT TOWER 051402 204 $46,796 $0 $1,404 1964 Retain for Existing

5.7 TONTO BASIN RANGER DISTRICT

Workforce

The projected PLS Tonto Basin Ranger District is 24 FTEs. An additional 4 FTEs (zoned positions) have primary duty stations at other districts. The District is not included in the Four Forest Restoration Initiative and the workforce is expected to remain constant throughout this planning period.

5.7.1 Roosevelt Visitor Center and District Office

The combined Forest Service visitor center / office along with work center complex were constructed with Plan 6 funds when the dam was raised by the Bureau of Reclamation. The 1994 building is a modern, well-maintained building that complies with federal accessibility guidelines and standards. The original Forest Service water and wastewater system were sold to a private entity and utilities are now purchased from them. Office utilization was not calculated. Based on visual observation the space is well utilized.

• Retain site and building for existing use.

Roosevelt VC and Office Building Data:

ROOSEVELT VISITOR…