The Site Proposal

The National Park Service, based on the criteria and selection process described in the attached Newsletter, has identified a preferred team for the initiation of negotiations regarding a cooperative agreement for the construction and management of the Visitor's Center. It is important to stress that many details of the proposal need to be worked out, and that the initial proposal represents a point of departure for negotiations and for public input prior to concluding a a final cooperative agreement. Only after thorough public comment and the completion of all required planning and environmental review will a final agreement for the project be completed and signed.

The Proposed Site
The site identified in the initial Kinsley proposal is within a 45 acre tract of privately owned land within the park boundary, southwest of the intersection of Baltimore Pike and Hunt Avenues. The site was selected because of the woodlands which shelter it from view of the battlefield, as well as for its potential for vehicular access via both Baltimore Pike and Taneytown Road. The site was behind the Union lines during the battle. Part of the site closest to Baltimore Pike was used as an artillery position on the 2nd and 3rd day, as well as a staging and resting area for Union troops. On the third day, Kinzie's battery and others along the Baltimore Pike participated in the opening of the Battle at Culp's Hill.
The initial proposal shows a conceptual layout of the suggested facilities on the site. Major parking is proposed to be shielded from the Visitor Center view-shed by existing trees. All aspects are subject to revision and refinement during the negotiation process.