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R-3339-11-15RESOLUTION NO. 3339.11-15(R) ' A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALLEN, COLLIN COUNTY, TEXAS, ADOPTING THE PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN UPDATE 2015, ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT "A'; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. 1 WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Board has reviewed the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 and recommends that the Allen City Council adopt the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan Update 2015; and, WHEREAS, the Allen City Council has determined that the adoption of the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 would be in the best interest of its citizens. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALLEN, COLLIN COUNTY, TEXAS, THAT: SECTION 1. The Allen City Council herby adopts the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan Update 2015, attached hereto as Exhibit "A." SECTION 2. This Resolution shall become effective immediately from and after its passage. DULY PASSED AND APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALLEN, COLLIN COUNTY, TEXAS, ON THIS THE Urn DAY OF NOVEMBER 2015. ATTEST: ^ � � _^ ^ She0ey B. Geo , TRMC, C SECRETARY APPR VED: Stephen Terre6, MAYOR City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 II CITY OF ALLEN, TEXAS PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN UPDATE 2015 Table of Contents IV. PARK CLASSIFICATION&INVENTORY....................................................7 V. METHODOLOGY............................................................................................16 VI. LEVEL OF SERVICE......................................................................................17 VII. NEEDS ANALYSIS.......................................................................................18 VIII. PRIORITIES/RECOMMENDATIONS.......................................................32 IX. IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE................................................................35 X. SUMMARY APPENDIX I — CITIZEN SURVEY RESULTS City of Allen Porky, Recreation & Open Space Marler Plan Update 2015 11 Pa g e L I I. INTRODUCTION In April of 2015, the City of Allen commissioned MHS Planning and Design, LLC to assist in updating the 2011-2020 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan. The purpose of updating the existing master plan is to ensure the goals, objectives and proposed developments still coincide with the parks and open space needs of the community. The 2015 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan Update includes a summary of the 2015 demographics, current and future populations, parks and open space accomplishments, updated needs assessment, facility priorities and an implementation schedule for future developments. The development of this update would not have been possible without the participation and insight of: City of Allen Mayor and City Council City of Allen Parks Board City of Allen City Manager — Peter Vargas Tim Dentler, Brian Bristow and the Allen Parks and Recreation Staff And most importantly, the citizens of Allen that participated in the focus groups and citizens survey. COMMUNITY PROFILE The City of Allen is: • Located in north central Texas in Collin County • Approximately 24 miles northeast of Dallas, 56 miles northeast of Fort Worth and 260 miles north of Houston • Neighbored by Plano, Fairview, McKinney, Parker, Frisco and Lucas • A total of 26.43 square miles • Accessed by US Highway 75 and State Highway 121 Current and Projected Population 'Estimate based on 2%growth per year Current Ethnic Breakdown White Non- HisD.i, 2014 US Census 2015• 2020' Allen 94,179 96,063 106,062 'Estimate based on 2%growth per year Current Ethnic Breakdown White Non- HisD.i, Hispanic African American Asian Other 65% 12% 8% 13% 2% City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space MasterPlan Update 2075 21 Pa g e I II. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The following goals and objectives are provided to give direction for future community decisions regarding parks, recreation and open space. These goals and objectives were established based on input from the City of Allen residents, city staff and consultant's professional opinion. Park and Recreation Goal. To ensure the provision of a balanced park and open space system that is easily accessible by all residents and meets the recreational needs of the citizens of Allen and helps to create a unique community character. Objectives: • To provide new, different and unique recreational opportunities for all age groups • To renovate, rehabilitate and upgrade existing parks in Allen. • To develop and provide public parks throughout the city that are in close proximity to all neighborhoods. • To forge partnerships with public and private organizations for the development, operation and maintenance of future recreational facilities. • To provide a trail system that connects parks, residential and commercial areas and schools. • To be proactive in developing existing properties to include recreational facilities. • To continue maintaining the existing park system at a high level and increase maintenance capabilities as new facilities are developed. Open Space Goal: To identify, protect and conserve quality natural open spaces for unstructured recreational activities, inherent aesthetic value and protection of valuable ecosystems. Objectives: • To continually research the viability of developing trail systems along creeks, floodways, and utility easements that will link public and private recreational facilities, neighborhoods, school campuses and neighboring communities. • To be proactive in the acquisition and protection of unique natural open spaces throughout the City of Allen. • To limit development in natural open spaces in order to minimize adverse effects on valuable ecosystems. • To address natural open space needs when developing active recreational facilities to provide citizens with well-balanced recreational experiences that include both active and passive opportunities. City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 3 1 Pa g e I 1 III. ACCOMPLISHMENTS The City of Allen has made significant additions and upgrades to the existing park system. It is important to note the city's accomplishments over the past several years in order to focus on what the city needs to and can accomplish in the upcoming years. 2010 • Completed Celebration Park Phase II —Few lighted tennis courts, two baseball diamonds, lighted four fields, restroom facility, concession and 200 parking spaces • Construction of Restmom/Bridal Parlor at the Heritage Village Bolin (Blue) House • Completed Phase I of Shadow Lakes Greenbelt Restoration • Completed construction of the Six Cities Trail Segment I including trail underpasskuanel at DART rail ROW 2011 • Completed Partnership with Hydrous Cable Wakeboard Park at Allen Station Park • Completed construction projects at Celebration Pass Hike & Bike Trail • Completed construction projects at Fox Hollow Open Space Enhancement • Replaced and enhanced the athletic field lighting at Jupiter Park • Installed new gymnasium floor and energy-efficient lighting at Joe Farmer Recreation Center • Completed renovations at The Courses at Watters Creek 2012 • Expanded tree farm operations at Molsen Farm • Renovated landscaping at Suncreek and Heritage Parks using drought tolerant perennial plants to reduce water usage • Continued construction of hike & bike trails and open space improvements throughout city such as at Cumberland Crossing, Waterford Park and Starcreek • Completed construction at Ford Park North Trail Connection • Completed construction at Arts of North Texas Hike & Bike Trail • Completed installation of public art at Fire Station 5 and City Hall Ther Com,e.. m ikwo , O cek-2011 Waterford Park Improvements -1012 City ofAilen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 4 1 Pa g e I 2013 • Installed shade structures at Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium • Redeveloped Hillside Park • Completed landscape improvements at the Lynge House at Heritage Village • Design and purchase of pre -fab restroom at Heritage Village • Constructed trail segments at Morgan Crossing Park and Ford Park North • Completed development of Morgan Crossing Park • Completed development of 66 Dayspring Nature Preserve Phase III • Installed public art and enhanced - - median landscaping along Exchange Parkway llilLside Prupeigi Enhancements - 2013 from US 75 to Greenville Avenue and along Bethany Drive from Allen Heights to Angel Parkway • Installed new flooring on the indoor track at Joe Farmer Recreation Center • Developed Hillside Property as a wellness park with multiple fitness and workout stations 2014 • Completed construction of the Watters Crossing Neighborhood Park Renovations • Completed construction of additional improvements at Greenville Heights Park • Constructed an additional three miles of trail to the overall trail system • Completed construction for the Bethany Drive Median Improvements • Improvements of spectator areas and sports fields at Jupiter Park Watters Crossing Park Renovations - 2014 • Improvements of spectator areas and addition of artificial turf on the softball fields at Allen Station Park • Improvements of spectator areas and sports fields at Celebration Park r 2015 • Enhanced Reed Park East to accommodate the Griffins Rugby Club practice and game schedule • Constructed an additional three miles of trail to the overall trail system • Completed Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium locker room renovation • Completed Bethany Lakes Connector Trail design City afAllm Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 51 Pa g e I i� • Completed Hillside Play Area renovations • Completed Allen Station baseball field #4 renovation • Completed Cottonwood Creek Trail • Completed Ford Pool design process • Began design of Watters Branch Community Park — construction completion anticipated 2017 • Completed Cottonwood Creek pedestrian bridge public art, median landscape designs and installation of "CHAC" sculpture Allen Station Park Artificial Turf Fields -1014 Hillside Play Areas Renovations - 2015 Trail Enhancements — 2010 - 2015 Walters Branch Community Park -2015 City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 61 Pa g e I 1 1 IV. PARK CLASSIFICATION & INVENTORY The park classification system for all parks in the city is broken down into nine major categories. Each park category serves a unique purpose: Pocket/Ornamental 1/4 Mile 2,500 sq. ft. 500-2,500 Landscaping, drinking $65,000 - Park to 2 acres fountains, sidewalks and $100,000 benches Per Acre Mini -Neighborhood 1/4 Mile lacreto 500-2,500 Paved area, playground $90,000 - Park 4scres apparatus, landscaping, $150,000 sidewalks, drinking Per Acre fountains, lawn area, benches Neighborhood 12 Mile 5 acres to 2,000-10,000 Playground apparatus, $70,000 - Park 10 acres picnic steals), pavilion, $100,000 play courts, play fields, Per Acre restroom, natural open space landscaping & puking Community 2 Miles 40 acres to 10,000-50,000 Tennis courts, sports fields, $30,000 - Park 150 acres playground apparatus, $50,000 picnic meals), pavilions, Per Acre walking/jogging trails, swimming pools, open space, landscaping, recreation centers, restrooms & parking Special Use Varies Determined Varies- Concentration of one or Varies - Dependent Park byprimary Dependent on two of the following: on primary use use primary use Beseball/softball complex, soccer fields, tennis centers, sports stadiums, golf courses, performing arts parks, amphitheaters & ornamental gardens City ojARen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 71 Pa g e I 1 Regional 10 Miles Varies Entire urban Sports fields, tennis courts, $2,000,000 Park area lakes, swimming & up complexes, campgrounds, hike/bike trails, golf courses, nature areas, play structures, vestments & ample parking Greenbelts Varies Varies 5,000 to entire landscaping, multi- $200,000 - community purpose trails, benches, $500,000 informationkiosks, per mile telephones, exemise courses & drinking fountains Natural Areas Varies Determined Entire Nature trails, multi- Varies by resource community purpose trails, benches, picnic areas, wildlife viewing stations, educational components, information kiosks, interpretive signs, exercise courses & drinking fountains Indoor Recreation Varies 10,000sq.ft. 20,000-30,000 Walking track, fitness $3,000,000 - enter Minimum rooms, gymnasium, weight $7,000,000 room,mcquetball/squash courts, indoor swimming pool, meeting/convention facilities, art; and crafts rooms & day care facilities • Development costs are based on 2015 dollars. City ojAllen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 81 Pa g e I The existing parks in Allen are classified in the Existing Parks and Open Space Inventory shown in the following table. In order to illustrate the geographic distribution and areas of the city currently served by the park system, the service area of each existing park has been shown on the Existing Parks and Open Space Map on page 15. Ideally, all developed areas of the city should fall within the service area of a neighborhood park and community park 1 Allen Senior Center Special -Use 5.6 8.2 Lounge Computers Ballroom Multi-purpose rooms Cafeteria Fitness rooms and machines Table games/video room 2 Allen Station Park Community 44 95 Five baseball fields Four softball fields Multi -Purpose trails Playground Horseshoe/washer pits The Allen Heritage Village The Allen Water Station Site (Allen Dam) Natural areas Picnic facilities Hydrous Wakeboard Park Two restroom/concession facilities 3 Allenwood Park Neighborhood 3.9 3.9 Playground Multi-purpose trail Pavilion Picnic facilities 4 Bethany Lakes Park Community 47.8 47.8 Joe Fainter Recreation Center -Gym - Two classrooms - Fitness room (weights/machines) - Two racquetball coons -Amphitheater - Game room Fishing ponds with pier Multi-purpose trail Playground Disc golf course Baseball/softball practice field Restroom/concession facility Open lawn areas for practice Veterans Memorial • Cancer Walk of Hope Clubhouse Pavilion Picnic facilities City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 9 1 Pa g e I,.... Type of Park De% eloped ToW Fac I I I t I 5 Bethany Ridge Park Neighborhood 7.1 7.1 Fishing pond with pier Playground Multi-purpose trail Open space Undeveloped picnic area 6 Bluffs at Lost Creek Greenbelt 5 13.4 Multi-purpose nails Pavilion Picnic facilities 7 Bolin Park Special-Use I1 11 Two baseball fields Two soccer fields Restroom/concession facility 8 Bradford Crossing Park Neighborhood 4 4 Bmeball/softball practice field Basketball court Playground Multi-purpose trail Pavilion Picnic facilities 9 Bridgewater Crossing Greenbelt 12.3 12.3 Open lawn area for practice Playground Pavilion 10 Celebration Perk Regional 99.4 99.4 Four baseball fields Nineteen soccer fields Two basketball courts Four tennis courts Two ponds Multi-purpose trail (1.5 mi.) Sprayground Playground Three Pavilions Wooded open space Horseshoe/washer pits Picnic facilities Two restroon✓concession facilities II Chase Oaks Golf Club- Special-Use 260.9 260.9 Golf course 12 Collin Square Greenbelt Greenbelt .4 8.9 Open space 13 Cottonwood Bend Park Mini- 3.9 3.9 Playground Neighborhood Two baseball/softball practice fields Picnic facilities Open lawn areas for practice 14 Country Meadows Park Neighborhood 7.4 7.4 Multi-purpose trails Playground • Open lawn areas for practice • Pavilion Picnic facilities Cary ojAl/en Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 10 1 Pa g e I Art. Aer�s 15 Custer Meadows Greenbelt 2.3 23 Natural open space Multi -use trails Playground 16 Day Spring Nature Natural Area 3.6 11 Normal areas Preserve Playground Pavilion Multi -use trails Creek overview Wildflower planting area 17 Edge at Allen Station Special -Use 11.3 11.3 Vtsitors/Youth Center Park Skate parts shop Game roont/indoor theater Video game room Computer lab Concessions Skate park BMX track Hockey rink Multi -use trail Crack overview Picnic facilities Restroom/concession facility 18 Estevie Property Community 0 70.2 19 Ford Park East Community 24 24 Two lacrosse practice fields Two football fields • Three softball fields Playground Picnic facilities Pavilion Restroom/c incession facility 20 Ford Park North Mini- 0 5.6 Neighborhood 21 Ford Park West Community, 19.7 19.7 Swimmingpool Hockey rink Two basketball courts Four tennis courts Baseball/softball practice fields Open lawn areas for practice Playground Pavilion Multi-purpose trails Picnic facilities 22 Glendover Park Neighborhood 10.1 10.1 Fishing pond with pier Multi -use trail • Playground Open Is" areas for practice • Pavilion Picnic facilities City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 111 Pa g e I Vo", TYpoofP.,l, Developed Tend F.rilifies 23 Green Park Mini- 5.1 5.1 Playground Neighborhood Multi-purpose trail Open lawn areas for practice Pavilion Picnic facilities 24 Greenville Heights Greenbelt 5 12.2 Natural open space Playground Pavilion Multi -use trails 25 Heritage Park Mini- 1.6 3 Playground Neighborhood Multi -use trail Natural areas Picnic facilities 26 Hillside Property Spectsl-Use 9 9 • Wellness Park Multi-purpose trails Workout equipment Open lawn areas 27 Hillside Play Area Mini- .5 .5 Playground Neighborhood 28 Jupiter Park Special -Use 7.9 7.9 Two lighted football fields 29 Liberty Garden Pocket .14 .14 Perennial garden 30 Lost Creek Park Neighborhood 5 5 Basketball court Baseball/softball practice field Perimeter side walks Playground Open lawn areas for practice Pavilion Picnic Facilities 31 Lower Watters Branch Neighborhood 0 10.7 Property 32 Molsen Farm Community 0 61.1 Tree farm Two ponds Sic Cities Trail site 33 Morgan Crossing Park Mini- 2.25 4.7 Playground Neighborhood Picnic facilities 34 Orchards Property Mini- 0 2.7 Neighborhood 35 Parkside Property Mini- 0 4.3 Neighborhood 36 Quail Run Park Neighborhood 5.1 5.1 Basketball court • Playground • Baseball/softball practice field • Multi -use trail • Pavilion • Picnic facilities 37 Rountree Park Neighborhood 0 6.1 City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 12 1 Pa g e I 1 Ninne Type of Park Developed To[.] F.eilifiv� 38 Reed Park East Mini- 3.4 3.4 Tennis court Neighborhood Lacrosse field Picnic facilities In -fine hockey rink 39 Reed Park West Neighborhood 5.8 5.8 Baseball/softball practice field Three playgrounds Trail with interpretive signage Open beam areas for practice Picnic facilities 40 Rodenbaugh Special -Use 8.3 10.8 Indoor swimming pool - 25m x Natatorium 25yds Competition and leisure areas Rock climbing wall Aerobics room Fitness Center 41 Rolling Hills Park Mini- .5 .5 Playground Neighborhood Interpretive signage Landscaping Picnic facilities 42 Shadow Lakes Park Natural Area 5.6 5.6 Natural open space Multi-purpose trail Pavilion Picnic facilities 43 Spring Meadow Greenbelt 2 2 Natal areas Greenbelt Multi-purpose trails 44 Spring Meadow Park Mini- 4.7 4.7 Playground Neighborhood Multi-purpose sports court Multi-purpose trail Pavilion Picnic facilities 45 Stacy Ridge Park Neighborhood 14.7 14.7 Two half -court basketball courts Playground Multi-purpose trail Large open lawn areas for Practice Large wooded area Pavilion Picnic facilities 46 Story Park Neighborhood 10.1 10.1 Playground Two half -court basketball courts • Open lawn areas • Multi-purpose trail • Pavilion Picnic facilities City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Upohare 2015 13 1 Pa g e I 1 1 47 Suncreek Park Neighborhood 13.2 13.2 Sand volleyball court Playground Multi-purpose trail Cricket practice pitch Open lawn areas for practice Pond with viewing deck Pavilion Picnic facilities 48 Trail at The Woods Greenbelt 14.7 68 Natural open space Multi-purpose trail Soft surface interpretive trail 49 Twin Creeks Park Neighborhood 11 I I Multi-purpose trail Playground Open lawn areas for practice Pole barn Pavilion Picnic facilities 50 Walden Park Pocket .5 .5 Small multi-purpose sports court Playground Picnic facilities 51 Waterford Park Neighborhood 2.5 10.1 Playground Native drought tolerant garden Multi-purpose trail • Picnic facilities 52 Watters Branch Community 25 50.4 Project Underway Property • 4lighted artificial mrfsoftball fields • Multi-purpose trails • Natural areas to be preserved • Open lawn areas for general play and sports practice • Pavilion / picnic facilities • Playground 53 Watters Crossing Park Neighborhood 8.1 8.1 Playground Multi-purpose sports court Multi-purpose trail Open lawn muss for practice Pavilion Sand volleyball court Picnic facilities 54 Windridge Properly Pocket 0 .4 a The Courses at Watters Creek (formerly Chase Oaks Golf Club) is maintained by its own staff and not included many assessment of maintenance needs throughout the parks and open space system Total Park Acres 1,094.2 Total Developed Acres 755.3 City ofAlten Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 14 [ Pa g e I� OO 0 IGEPARARTAE.. _ RPA.ATEI �CzK.CROE, PAR ILL REILA. RESEAL" c )GERATI HILLS AllWAW,I Famws " GREEK x M,711Fice. 1 o i .�� Pxr s ii . O•� 1xh.. Ix °P" x io <nens. -n Uo o � oa 'oEl���x / l C J V. METHODOLOGY The masterplanupdateplanning process began in 2015 when the City of Allen began to re -address the parks and open space opportunities throughout the city. The Parks Board, representing a cross section of the community with several key city staff, was selected to guide the development of a master plan for future park and recreation opportunities. The Parks Board and city staff was involved in each major step of the planning process and provided the local insight needed to produce a successful master plan update. The City of Allen provided an online survey to all the residents of Allen and over 2,000 completed surveys were received. In addition, a total of 17 different community groups participated in focus group meetings to discuss the true needs for the City of Allen's parks, recreation and open space system. Spectator Areas—AHen Station Park Based on the citizen survey results, focus group input, the Parks Board, city staff, existing inventory, available resources and professional opinion, potential park projects were developed. Once the master project list was developed and refined, the projects for the city were prioritized based on local demand and their perception of needs. This master plan update was presented to the Parks Board and a at City Council Workshop in order to verify that the City of Allen Parks and Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 truly reflects the community's needs and priorities. City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 16 1 Pa g e r L 1 VI. LEVEL OF SERVICE Level of service is the term used to describe the importance or the role of a park system in a community and is expressed in acres of useable park land per 1,000 persons. For the last forty years, the targeted level of service for communities nationwide has been 10 acres of park land for every 1,000 residents. Based on the specific needs of a community, levels of service ranging from 5 acres of developed park land per 1,000 people to 15 acres of developed park land per 1,000 people are typically targeted. Allen's Total Park Acres: 1,094.2 — 10.3 acres per 1,000 residents Allen's Level of Service Total developed park acres: 755.3 — 7.9 developed acres per 1,000 residents It is important to note that the level of service forparks and open space is based on useable space and, therefore, undeveloped or unusable park land should not be a factor in the level of service calculation. Although private recreational facilities and outdoor public school spaces should be considered when establishing the desired level of service for a community, the non -city -owned acreage is not typically used in the level of service calculation. Rolling Hills Park City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 171 Pa g e I VII. NEEDS ANALYSIS The City of Allen has been successfully upgrading older parks in the city and developing existing properties over the past five years. According to focus group meetings and the citizen survey, the majority of the needs established in the 2011 master plan are still desired by residents today in the City of Allen. Local needs were determined through: - Citizen Survey Public Meetings Focus Group Meetings Parks Board Meetings - City Staff Meetings The City of Allen has always used a citizen -driven needs -based approach to parks and open space planning in order to create a park system that will be highly used by its residents. In order to know what the citizens desire and to create a successful park system, the City of Allen provided the community with an online survey. A total of 2,127 citizens responded with valuable data regarding the park system. The same survey used in 2010 with minor modifications, was used for this update in order to compare results over the past five years. Overall, the residents of Allen feel the City of Allen provides and maintains a great park system, just as the citizens did five years ago. The complete survey results can be viewed in Appendix I. The following list is a summary of the key responses regarding the City of Allen's Park System. (Results do not include `No Response' answers): - Sixty-five percent (65%) of the respondents expressed that the role of parks, recreation and open spaces compared to ten years ago is 'more important,' eighteen percent (18%) stated `the same' and ROLE OF PARKS 10/X 16% •More Important The Same ■ Less Important 0 18% Don't Know only one percent (10/.) stated `less important.' (16% responded 'Don't Know.') City ofAllm Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 181 Pa g 1 1 - Ninety-four percent (94%) of the respondents "strongly agree" or "agree" that parks and recreation facilities are well worth the cost to taxpayers. Eighty-one percent (81%) of the respondents expressed that additional parks and recreational facilities are needed in Allen. Seventy-five percent (75a/o) of the respondents expressed that existing parks should be upgraded and/or improved to include additional facilities. Eighty-seven percent (87a/o) of the respondents expressed that residential neighborhoods, schools and parks should be connected with linear parks such as trails along creeks and corridors. Eighty-nine percent (89%) of the respondents expressed the Allen park system is 'excellent' or'good.' QUALITY 10% 1% ■Excellent , •Good ■Fav � spoor - The acquisition and development of park land and the maintenance of park facilities can be expensive. Residents were asked 'In addition to state grants, municipal bonds should be used to assist in the funding of the development of parks in Allen' and a total of eighty-two percent (82%) 'strongly -agreed' or `agreed.' City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Updale 2015 ■ Strongly Agee • Agee ■ Disagree ■ Strongly Disagree 191 Pa e C 1 The survey included a question asking citizens what facilities they want added to the Allen park system. Thirty-four recreational facilities were listed and each respondent chose their top five choices and ranked them with one being the highest and five being the lowest. Each number was then awarded points to create a weighted score. If a one was chosen, it was worth five points, if a two was chosen, it was worth four points, if a three was chosen, it was worth three points...etc. The following table represents the rank and weighted scores of the non -sports related facility priorities desired by residents and the corresponding rank from the 2011 Master Plan. Non -Organized Sports Related Facility Priorities I Nature Trails trails in a natural setting) j' _ 1,539 1 Indoor Recreation Centers 1,252 8 trails.. _ 1,144 1 Other Facilities____ _ 1,139 4 BotanicaMowerGardens 882 6 Is _ _ Nature Amu 863 3 Swirnnnng Pools85R 9 _ _ Off -Road Bike Trails 854 NA S unds / Water Play Parks 807 NA 16 Dolt Parks 691 11 Water Features creeks small lakes etc. 637 12 11 Community Gardens 584 NA 13 Playwounds 560 13 14 BandsWWArnhitheaters 515 15+ is Fishing Piers / Docks 472 15+ 16 Lawn Areas for General Play 424 15 17 Picnic Shelters / Pavilions 407 14 18 CanatinatDay Cams 401 + 19 Sand Volleyball Court; 388 15+ 20 Disc Golf Courses 196 + 21 Piibl*c All 154 15+ 22 Horseshoe/WasherCouns 118 15+ City of Allen Parke, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2013 201 Pa g e I 1 The following table represents the rank and weighted scores of the sports -related facility priorities desired by residents and the corresponding rank from the 2011 Master Plan. Organized Sports -Related Facility Priorities 1 Sports Practice Fields (Multi -use) 1076 2 2 Basketball Courts 903 15+ 3 Artificial Turf Sports Fields 862 NA 4 Baseball Fields 785 15+ 5 Tennis Centers 779 15+ 6 Soccer Fields 771 10 7 Football Fields 385 7 8 Lacrosse Fields 301 15+ 9 Youth Softball Fields 300 15+ 10 Adult Softball Fields 216 5 11 Cricket Fields 114 15+ 12 Rugby Fields 83 NA Focus Groups and Public Meetings In order to better understand the needs of citizens, 17 focus group meetings and apublic meeting were held in Allen. The focus groups meetings provided information regarding different organizations, clubs, groups and sports organization's needs. The following list is representative of the most common comments and concerns heard throughout the meetings: • The City of Allen needs to continue to focus on building first class facilities and continuing a high level of maintenance in order to compete with surrounding cities. • The city needs to continue to address upgrading existing parks rather than developing new parks — the city is near build -out and the focus must be on improving what is owned. • The city should focus on organized and programmed recreation in order to increase participation numbers • The city needs to continue to focus on acquiring vacant land, especially those with valuable natural resources, as the city moves towards build out. • The city should design and construct projects that provide multiple amenities and opportunities in one location. City ojAllen Parks, Recreation & Open Space MasterPlan Update 2015 21 Pa g e • The city has been successful in the construction of trails but needs additional connections to create a larger trail network. • Joe Fanner Recreation Center is too small and needs to be expanded. • More practice and game fields are needed for organized sports. • Recycling and `green' initiatives need to be utilized in the park system • The city should focus on great spectator and picnic areas for parents and grandparents who are watching children play. • Greenbelts need to be left in their natural conditions — little to no maintenance is necessary. • The city needs to continue to focus on water conservation — plant native species and use artificial turf where appropriate. New Parks — Needs The City of Allen has steadily grown over the past five years and is continuing to grow towards build -out. Based on focus group input, the citizen survey and city staff, it is important for the city to continue constructing additional needed parks on existing undeveloped properties throughout the community. The city currently owns several undeveloped properties ranging from half an acre to 70 acres distributed across town. The city should focus on developing those properties into new parks that fit the goals and objectives of this plan. However, if land becomes available at a reasonable price or by donation, then the city should not hesitate to purchase or accept the land as long as it follows the goals and objectives of this plan. For instance, the city needs to continue acquiring additions to West Rowlett Creek Property and the Watters Branch Property in the northwestern part of town. Existing Parks - Needs In addition to developing existing properties and increasing the parks and open space level of service in the City of Allen, it is imperative to continue upgrading and renovating the existing older parks and continue to maintain all the parks at a high level. Each neighborhood has individual characteristics and needs. Therefore, each park should reflect those specific characteristics and needs. A total of seventy-five percent (75%) of the survey respondents expressed the need for upgraded and renovated parks and facilities in the City of Allen. The city has excelled at providing, developing and maintaining the existing park system and needs to continue this k®d. Cay of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 22 1 Pa g e I The city needs to upgrade and improve the oldest existing facilities to continue satisfying local needs. Additional walking trails, playgrounds, benches, shaded areas, picnicking shelters/pavilions and enhanced water -wise landscaping are all examples of upgrades to the existing park system. Athletic Facilities - Needs Since athletic organizations have different recreational needs than the general public, a carrying capacity analysis was used to determine the true needs of the different sports associations. The carrying capacity is the number of games one athletic field can accommodate each week. In addition to the carrying capacity analysis, focus group meetings were specifically held with different sports organizations. These meetings gave insight into how sports organizations are managed in Allen and what each different organization needs, to better provide recreational opportunities for the growing population. Baseball — The youth baseball league in Allen has significantly grown over the past five years and is projected to continue to grow in the upcoming years. Different age groups play on different sized fields. The City of Allen currently offers eleven lighted fields: • 4 - 200' fields at Allen Station Park • 2 - 225' fields at Celebration Park • 2 - 250' fields at Bolin Park • 2 - 300' fields at Allen Station Park and Celebration Park (One field per park) • 1 - 325' field at Celebration Park Boy's baseball games are typically played five days a week leaving Wednesdays and Sundays available for field recovery, maintenance and rumout days. Typicallyeach team plays two games a week and three games can be played per field per night. At this rate a total of 15 games a week can be played on a single field. For this analysis, one game field for each 14 teams is applied w the targeted standard. The following table represents the carrying capacity of the youth baseball fields based on the number of teams in Allen. City ofAlle, Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 23 1 Pa g e J U4-UIO Field, 2015 Fields 2015 ;""" , 6 118 8 133 Field, 2020 10 UII-U12 2 28 2 33 2 U13-1115 2 8 1 11 1 U16 -UIS 1 2 1 3 1 Total 11 156 ll 180 14 "The estimated number of teams in 2020 is based on 2.4% population growth per year. There is currently a two field deficit for U4-U1O age groups and a projected deficit of four U4 - U10 baseball fields by 2020. This particular age group can play on 200' or 225' fields. As youth baseball continues to grow, additional U4-U1O fields will be needed in the City of Allen. Softball - The youth softball program in Allen has remained relatively consistent in darts of the numberof teams and players over the past few years. In 2013, a total of 31 teams played and a total of 42 teams are playing in 2015 on a total of four lighted artificial turf fields at Allen Station Park. The four fields we all 200' fields and support all the youth softball players. Typically, games are played four nights a week: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. All four fields are lighted which allows for three games to be played per field per night. A total of 48 games can be played per week which accommodates 96 teams wing the one game field for each 12teams standard, playing one game perweek m48 teams playing two games perweek. Nomme youth softball fields we needed at this time or in 2020 at the projected growthrate ofyouth softball. City ofAtIm Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 24 1 Pa g e I Numberol Number of Numberof Number of Number of sot'tball leagues Existing Teams Required Teams Required Game FielA+ Game Fields Game Fields 2015 2020* 2015 2015 2020 -The estimated number of teams in 2020 is based on 2.4% population growth per year. Soccer — Youth soccer currently plays most of their games at Celebration Park and occasionally at Bolin Park. The City of Allen has a total of 23 soccer fields and they are broken down into different sizes for different age groups as follows: • 8 - 90' x 60' fields (U6) • 6 -120' x 90' fields (U8) • 6 - 240 x 150' fields (U10) • 2 - 300' x 180' fields (U12) • 1 - 300' x 240' field (U16 -U19) Soccer games are typically played on Saturdays and each team plays one game per week. Ideally the carrying capacity of a soccer field is 12 teams per week (six games per Saturday). The Spring and Fall seasons vary in which has the most participants in each age group. hi order to calculate the current use of the fields, the highest number of teams was used in each age group, regardless of the season. Allen Station Park The following table represents the current and future needs of youth soccer, based on providing one game field for each 12 teams in an age group. City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 25 1 Pa g e I 7 I I Number of Number of Numberof Number of Number of `n 1 i 0 Existing Teams Required Teams Required Game Fields Game Fields Game Fields 2015 2015 2015 2020. 2020 ®o®©mo �00000� *The estimated number of teams in 2020 is based on 2.4% population growth per year. Soccer has slowly declined over the past few years and the current number of soccer fields in the City of Allen is sufficient for the number of teams. However, there is a need for three additional soccer fields by the year 2020. There is a need for additional fields due to the fact that soccer games are typicallyonlyplayedon Saturdays which limits the amounts ofgames that canbe played per week. Football -Youth football is currently growing and is expected to continue to grow into the future. The youth football league plays at Ford Park, Jupiter Park, Lovejoy High School and Allen High School. Currently, a total of 57 teams play on six lighted 100 yard fields. Lovejoy High School officials charge the youth football league to play on their football field. Ideally, a youth football field can support 12 teams per week (6 games per Saturday) Ford Park The following table represents the current and future needs ofthe youth football program based on the number of teams per field. (Assumes Lovejoy High School fields will be available in 2020) City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 261 Pa g e 1 *The estimated number of teams in 2020 is based on 2.4% population growth per year. The six 100 yard football fields currently satisfy the need in 2015 for youth football and will be sufficient in 2020 at the current growth. Adult Softball — It is important to specifically consider the needs of adult softball because of the large number of participants. In 2015, a total of 3,225 participants played co-rec adult softball in the City of Allen. In the Fall season of 2015, a total of 73 teams played on a total of three lighted fields at Ford Park. Currently, adult softball is played Monday through Friday and four games are played per field per night on the three softball fields at Ford Park. At this usage level, each field can accommodate 40 teams. A targeted capacity standard of one game field for each 32 teams for adult softball is recommended for Allen. This ratio will help the league make up for f ..•'^" laments and provide a small amount of flexibility in scheduling. It should be noted that the City of Allen is currently working on construction documents for four additional artificial turf, lighted softball fields at the new Watters Branch Community Park. Based on the one field per 32 teams ratio, the following table shows the demand for adult softball. *The estimated number of Wants in 2020 is based 2 4 %population growth per year. City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 27 1 Pa g e I 1 Watters Branch Community Park is projected to be completed in 2017 and will satisfy the need for adult softball with four lighted, artificial turf fields. Parks and Recreation Athletic Priorities 1 Sports Practice Fields (Multi -Use) _ 2 Artificial Turf Spans Fields 3 Baseball Fields 4 Basketball Courts 5 Soccer Fields 1 6 _ Tennis Centers 7 Football Fields L 8 Youth Softball Fields 9 _. Lacrosse Fields 10 _ __.. _. Adult Softball Fields Trails - Needs Currently, the City of Allen does a spectacularjob in planning and constructing trails throughout the community. However, it is important to continually re-evaluate the trail system to make sure all the trails connect in order for all the individual trails to become a purposeful trail system that connect residential areas, parks and businesses. Nature trails* ranked number one and multi- purpose trails ranked number four in the citizen survey. In addition, a total of eighty-seven percent (87%) of survey responders strongly agreed or agreed that residential neighborhoods, schools and parks should be connected with linear parks such as trails along creeks and other corridors. * It is believed by the consultants and city staff that citizens think of nature nails as trails of all types built in a natural environment as in the photo below. City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 281 Pa g e J The Collin County Regional Trails Master Plan and the "Six Cities Trail Plan- A Regional Linkage Plan" must be followed in order to connect with trails in neighboring communities. In addition, the "Linear (nreenbelt Park Study" developed in 1986, discusses valuable concepts regarding linear greenbelts and trails and how they relate to the natural areas surrounding and etossmg through Allen. More trails and trail connections are needed in the City of Allen. In addition, multi-purpose trails and soft -surfaced trails are needed in and throughout individual parks for walking, jogging and other forms of exercise. Natural Open Space — Needs The City of Allen needs to preserve natural open spaces within the community in order to make the spaces available for primitive recreation and to preserve valuable ecosystems. Since Allen is virtually surrounded by other built-up communities, it is important to preserve any and all natural areas available. Nature areas ranked as number six and water features such as creeks, small lakes, etc. ranked number twelve on the citizen survey. The existing city -owned property, Molsen Farm is a large (+/- 50 acres) plot of land along Rowlett Creek. The Molsen Farm Master Plan proposed the development of previously developed / i managed preserving the most valuable natural open spaces found on the site. Rowlett Creek, West Rowlett Creek, Watters Branch, Cottonwood Creek and their tributaries are all key natural water resources in Allen and need to be preserved. City ofAlIm Parks, Recreation & Open Space MasterPlan Update 2015 291 Pa g e 1 Indoor Recreation Centers - Needs The City of Allen currently has one indoor recreation center — the Joe Farmer Recreation Center. It is located in southeast Allen at Bethany Lakes Park. The Joe Farmer Recreation Center is relatively small and not centrally located for convenient access from all areas of the city. Indoor recreation centers tanked number two on the citizen survey of needed recreational facility priorities. It is important to note that indoor recreation centers went from the number eight priority to the number two priority. There is a need for an additional recreation center that is more accessible to residents in other parts of town — specifically in the northwest portion of the community. Maintenance - Needs The City of Allen currentlyhas first class park facilities and maintains these spaces at a high level. The higblevelofmainumancesignificantly contributes to the high use oftheparks and satisfaction level within the city. It is important to keep all parks and public facilities well maintained and safe. As Allen's population and park system continues to grow, it is necessary for the maintenance crews to grow proportionally so that all outdoor public spaces are useable, safe and aesthetically pleasing to all residents and park visitors. Future park development plans should be prepared with reduced maintenance as a key objective. This can be achieved by the useofnativeplantsandmaterialsand by increasing the amount of natural areas in future parks. The addition of sports facilities and a new recreational center will create a need for additional staff to keep the level of maintenance at its current level. Miscellaneous Community - Needs Shade at playgrounds and other facilities ranked number fora on the citizen survey. It is important to incorporate shade into the existing park system for play areas as well as along trails and bench areas for children, adults and senior citizens. Future parks need to be constructed with shade in mind — it is imperative to remove less existing vegetation and to plant more trees and/or provide more shade structures at play areas. An annual tree planting program is needed in the City of Allen to more that trees are planted each year in order to have more shade in parks. City ojAllen Parks, Recreation & Open Space MasterPlan Update 2015 30 1 Pa g e L The city has been very successful in the past several years implementing art into the parks. Public art in the park can take many forms such as: creative signs, climbing/playing elements, artistic bridges, etc. The City of Allen needs to continue to follow the "Public Art Master Plan" developed in 2005. The mission of the Public Art Program is to: "Articulate the values and vision of the community by enhancing the aesthetics of the city's civic infrastructure, commissioning site-specific artwork and creating hands-on encounters with art." Additional attention to public art in the design and remodeling of parks in Allen can contribute significantly to the attainment of this mission. Botanical / Flower Garden ranked number five on the citizen survey and it is important to express what a'botanical /flower garden' means to the City of Allen residents. After many discussions, it was decided that the parks need additional plantings such as shrubs and perennials to spruce up the park system. Currently the parks consist of manicured lawn areas and trees; flower gardens are needed to create a more aesthetically pleasing experience for park users. The addition of enhanced landscaping in the parks will require additional maintenance staff in the future. Conclusions It is important to analyze the actual needs of the community so the recommendations and future development of Allen's park system is representative of what the citizens' desire. The following are key points of the needs analysis: • Existing parks and facilities need to continually be upgraded and maintained at a high level in order to keep Allen's park system up to local standards and expectations and safe for all users. This includes making all public parks and facilities compliant with the ADA. • Multi-purpose sports practice fields need to be constructed in existing parks and parks scheduled for development. • Some of the existing open space and vacant land owned by the city needs to be developed into trail corridors, neighborhood parks and community parks. • An additional indoor recreation center is needed on the west side of US 75. • Existing trails need to be linked to provide more extended connectivity throughout the community. • Shade, both natural and constructed, should be incorporated into existing and future parks. • Natural areas of high quality need to be preserved as natural open space such as mature wooded areas along creeks and their tributaries. City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Mcater Plan Update 2015 311 Pa g e II I 1 VIII. PRIORITIES/RECOMMENDATIONS The following table represents the recreational facility priorities for the City of Allen's parks and open space system. These priorities are based on citizen input, city staff, Parks Board and professional opinion. Parks and Recreation Facility Priorities 1 Muld-Ptupose Trails / Nature Trails 2 Indoor Recreation Centers 3 Shade at Playgrounds and Other Area 4 Sports Practice Fields (Multi -Use) 5 _ _ Botanical / Flower Gardens I 6 -}' — Spraygrounds / Water Play Parks 7_._ _ _ Swimming Pools 8 111 Nature Areas 9 Dog Parks Ir10 t' Water Features (creeks, small lakes, etc.) - 11� - Ot%Road Bike Trails 'r City ojAllen Parks, Recreation & Open Space MasterPlan Update 2015 32 1 Pa g e 12 Playgrounds 13 Soccer Fields 14 Community Gardens IS_�. Basketball Courts 16 Fishing Piers / Docks j 17_ _ _ Lawn Areas for General Play 18 Camping / Day Camps L- 19 _ 111. � Picnic Shelters / Pavilions _-. 20 Bandstands/Amphitheaters 21 Sand Volleyball Courts 22 Football Fields 23 Disc Golf _ 24 Public Art City ojAllen Parks, Recreation & Open Space MasterPlan Update 2015 32 1 Pa g e I Recommendations The following actions are recommended to be implemented within the next five years to ensure that the parks and open space system continues to meet the recreational needs of the city's residents. New Projects and Parks Develop Watters Branch Community Park (Project Underway) - Construct 4 adult softball fields (artificial turf & lighted) - Construct multi-purpose trails - Construct open lawn areas for general play - Construct pavilion and picnic areas - Preserve valuable natural areas Construct Dog Park at the northeast comer of US 75 & Exchange Parkway along Cottonwood Creek Develop the Estevie Property - Construct indoor recreation center in partnership with Allen Sports Association - Construct multi-purpose sports practice fields - Construct multi-purpose trails - Construct playground - Construct spraygmund - Provide shaded areas - Provide enhanced landscaped areas Develop the Molsen Farre Property in accordance with the Molsen Farm Master Plan - Construct environmental education center (adaptive re -use of existing buildings) - Construct multi-purpose trails & interpretive nature trails - Construct pedestrian overlooks - Enlarge existing pond - Construct community garden & working children's garden - Restore prairie habitats - Continue to expand city tree fawn Existing Parks - Re -develop Ford Pool (Project Underway) - Enhance landscaping throughout park system - Replace playgrounds throughout park system (15 years or older) - Plant trees and construct pavilions for shade and aesthetic purposes throughout the park system Athletic Facilities - Construct multi-purpose sports practice fields and artificial turf fields (See `New Projects and Parks' above) - Construct additional baseball fields City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 33 1 Pa g e I Natural Open Space - Acquire and preserve the most valuable and aesthetically pleasing natural open spaces - especially along Rowlett Creek, West Rowlett Creek, Cottonwood Creek Watters Branch Creek and their tributaries (On-going) Indoor Recreation Centers - Construct indoor recreation center at the Estevie Property in partnership with the Allen Sports Association (See `New Projects and Parks' above) Trails - Continue to construct .5 miles of trail connections along Cottonwood Creek to connect +/- 7 miles of trails (Project Underway) Maintenance - Prepare and adopt a statistically based study and master plan that will increase the maintenance staff and budget as the park and trail systems continue to grow Watterford Park Winter Wonderland City of Allen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 34 1 Pa g e C IX. IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE The following table depicts project priorities with suggested completion dates for each. It is important to note that the following schedule is intended to be a flexible guide for the development of parks and recreational facilities over the next several years for the City of Allen. The city should evaluate and take advantage of any unforeseen opportunities that may arise that are not identified in the schedule or that change the order of implementation if necessary. Parks and Recreation Implementation Schedule City of Allen Parts, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 35 1 Pa g e Project Date Estimated Potential Funding Source Cosh 1 Re -develop Ford Pool (11 NDERW.AY) 2016- $2,800,000- General Fund 2017 $3,400,000 General Obligation Bond 2 Develop Walters Branch Community 2017 $6,500,000 TP&W Grant Parkproperty(UNDERWAY) - Collin County - 4 Adult artificial turf softball fields $7,500,000 General Fund - Nature trails General Obligation Bond - Nature areas - Pavillon - Picnic stations - Playground - Open lawn areas for general play & sports practice -Trees for shade 3 Construct.5 mi. oftra6 connections 2017 $250,000 TP&W Grant(Treil Grant) along Cottonwood Creek to connect +/- 7 - General Fund mi. of traff(UNDERWAY) $550,000 General Obligation Bond 4 Construct dog park at northeast corner 2017- $650,000- Private Donations of US 75 & Exchange Parkway along 2019 $900,000 General Fund Cottonwood Creek I General Obligation Bond 5 Develop the Estevie Property 2018- $3,500,000- Allen Sports Association - Construct indoor recreation center in 2020 $4,500,000 TP&WGrant partnership with Allen Sports General Fund Association General Obligation Bond - Multi-purpose sports fields Other Grants & -Multi-purpose trails Partnerships - Shaded areas - Enhanced landscaping - Playground -Sprayground 6 Develop Molsen Farm property in 2017- $3,000,000- TP&W Groot accordance with the Molsen Farm 2020 $5,000,000 General Fund MasterPlan General Obligation Bond 7 Developtraillinkages 2015- $250,000 TP&W Gnat(Trad Grant) (ON-GOING) 2020 - General Fund $550,000 General Obligation Bond per mile City of Allen Parts, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 35 1 Pa g e U 0 8 Acquire and preserve land along Rowlett 2015- Market Land Dedication Creek Rest Rowlett Creek Cottonwood 2020 Collin County Creek, Watters Branch and their Price Trust for Public Land tributaries General Fund General Obligation Bond 9 Implement an into the parks in 2015- N/A Donation accordance to the Public Art Master Plan 2020 General Obligation Bond (ON-GOING) 10 Plant trees throughout a8 parks for 2015- N/A General Fund shade and aesthetic purposes 2020 General Obligadon Bond NOTE: Costs are preliminary estimates only and prepared without the benefit of detailed engineering data. Land acquisition costs are not included and all costa are based on 2015 dollars. Final construction cash will vary. fr�m CITY OF ALLEN City ojAllen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 36 Po g c ?jJ U lu: .r L 1 X. SUMMARY The residents of the City of Allen are very satisfied with the existing park system and are invested in the future of Allen's park system. The majority ofthe residents feel thatthe City of Allen has been very responsive in providing quality and highly maintained public park land. The city needs to continue to acquire land in order to increase the amount of park acreage to serve the growing population. In addition, older parks should be upgraded and renovated in order to keep most of the parks up to date as the population and demographics change in the community. This master plan update is to be utilized as a flexible tool which should be reviewed annually and updated every two to three years to continue to reflect the unique recreational needs of the area. The city should take advantage of any unforeseen opportunities not identified in the plan that may arise, such as donations of land and/or facilities as long as the actions meet the intent of the goals, objectives and recommendations of this plan. With the proposed additions to the park system that are outlined in this plan will come additional maintenance and operational needs in order to best utilize, manage, and care for both the new facilities and those that exist today. While natural areas are typically left in their natural state, it is important to emphasize the need for an ongoing management program. A successful management program for the natural areas of the park system will ensure that the city's natural resources are maintained in optimum condition. The proposed improvements contained in this plan will enhance the quality of life throughout the city and help ensure that Allen is able to keep pace with the growing and ever changing recreational needs of its residents. The resultingbenefits include increased quality of life, tourism potential, economic value, increasing property values, and civic pride on the part of the residents of Allen. City ofARen Parks, Recreation & Open Space Master Plan Update 2015 38 1 Pa g e H CITIZEN SURVEY RESULTS 1 I F City of Allen Parks Survey- Facility Priorities Rank Total Weighted Score Ra nki ng from 2011 Master Pla n - Page 42 1 Nature Trails 2117 1 2 Indoor Recreation Centers 1722 B 3 Multi -Use Paved Trails 1675 1 4 Shade at Playgrounds & Other Areas 1598 4 5 Botanical/Flower Gardens 1375 6 6 Nature Areas 1222 3 7 Swimming Pools 1207 9 8 Off -Road Bike Trails 1177 n/a 9 Spraygrounds/Water Play Parks 1156 n/a 10 Sports Practice Fields 1076 2 11 Dog Parks 998 11 12 Water Features (creeks, small lakes, etc.) 906 12 13 Basketball Courts 903 greater than 15 14 Community Gardens 863 n/a 15 Artificial Turf Sports Fields 862 n/a 16 Baseball Fields 785 greater than 15 17 Tennis Centers 779 greater than 15 18 Soccer Fields 771 greater than 15 19 Playgrounds 768 13 20 Band Stands/Amphitheaters 683 greater than 15 21 Fishing Piers/Docks 677 greater than 15 22 lawn Areas for General Play 641 15 23 Picnic Shelters/Pavilions 566 14 24 Camping/Day Camps 557 greater than 15 25 Sand Volleyball Courts 465 greater than 15 26 Football Fields 385 7 27 lacrosse Fields 301 greater than 15 28 Youth Softball Fields 300 greater than 15 29 Disc Goff Courses 291 greater than 15 30 Public Art 272 greater than 15 31 Adult Softball Fields 216 5 32 Horseshoe Pits/Washer Courts 181 greater than 15 33 Cricket Fields 114 greater than 15 34 Rugby Fields 83 greater than 15 The weighted scores were calculated by giving votes for #1 priority 5 points, #2 priority 4 points, #3 priority 3 points, 44 prioft 2 points, and #5 priority 1 point. Each respondent was allowed to select only five fadlties as a priority. 7/1/2015 How would you rate the existing parks 8 recreational facilities in Allen? ■ Excellent - 38% ■ Good - 51% ■ Fair - 10% Poor - 1% ■ Don't Know - 1% kHow would you rate the level of maintenance of parks in Allen? ■ Excellent - 40% ■ Good - 49% ■ Fair - 8% Poor- 1% 111 Don't Know -1 % Can you reasonably & safely walk to a city park in Allen from your home? ■ Yes -70% ■ No -30% ' Are additional parks and recreation facilities needed in Allen? ■ Yes -81% ■ No -19% L In what area of Allen do you reside? ■ Northwest ■ Southwest ■ Northeast Is Southeast No Response More pocket or ornamental parks are needed (2,500 sq. Ft. To 1 acre in size). ■ Strongly Agree - 15% Agree - 37% ' ■ Disagree - 40% 0 Strongly Disagree - 7% III More neighborhood parks are needed (10 acres in size). ■ Strongly Agree -25% Agree - 46% ■ Disagree - 27% ■ Strongly Disagree - 3% ' More community parks are needed (40-150 acres in size). ■ Strongly Agree - 28% Agree - 42% ■ Disagree - 28% ■ Strongly Disagree - 3% Existing parks in Allen should be upgraded and or improved to include additional outdoor recreation facilities. ■ Strongly Agree - 28% Agree - 47% ■ Disagree - 22% ■ Strongly Disagree - 3% Residential neighborhoods, schools & parks should be connected with linear parks such as trails along creeks and other corridors. ■ Strongly Agree - 46% * Agree - 41 % ■ Disagree -10% 111 Strongly Disagree - 2% quisition of parkland & development and maintenance of park facilities can be nsive. In addition to state grants, municipal bonds should be used to assist in the funding of the development of parks. ■ Strongly Agree -31% Agree -51% ■ Disagree - 15% ■ Strongly Disagree -4% Parks & Recreation facilities are well worth the cost to taxpayers. ■ Strongly Agree - 49% Agree - 45% ■ Disagree - 5% • Strongly Disagree - 1 % The most important consideration regarding future parks in Allen is: (weighted scores) ■ Quality of facilities in Design & Construction - 3758 ■ Preservation of natural areas - 2734 ■ Maintenance of facilities after construction - 2921 Number of Facilities - 1358 How should the Parks & Recreation Department inform the public of upcoming events? (weighted scores) I I I I I I I I I I I I 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400 ■ Social Media - 1364 ' ■ Website - 1250 ■ Email - 1101 ■ Insert in Water Bills - 973 Banners in Parks - 698 Newspaper Articles - 510 The City of Allen provides most citizens with information regarding local parks and recreation opportunities. ■ Strongly Agree - 25% Agree - 54% ■ Disagree - 17% ■ Strongly Disagree - 3% The role of parks, recreation & open space in Allen today compared to ten years ago is ■ More Important - 65% The Same - 18% Less Important - 1 % 0 Don't Know - 16%