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Home My WebLink AboutR-2980-1-11RESOLUTION NO. 2980-1-11( ' A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALLEN, COLLIN COUNTY, TEXAS, ADOPTING THE PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN 2011 — 2020, ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT "A"; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Board has reviewed the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan and recommends that the Allen City Council adopt the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan; and, WHEREAS, the Allen City Council has determined that the adoption of the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan 2011 — 2020 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 2011 — 2020, 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 THLS THE 11'ra DAY OF JANUARY, 2011. APPR VED: L12-;* - Stephen Terrell, MAYOR ATTEST: sou"_ 1� e Lei Shelley B. GeoxWTRMC, CITY TARY r JUNE 2010 M Prepared 6y: 212 W. Ninth St. Tyler, TX 903.597.6606 PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN 2010 - 2020 CITY OF ALLENq TEXAS Table of Contents I. Introduction .................................. Page 2 II. Goals & Objectives ............................ Page 5 III. Methodology .................................. Page IV. Park Classification & Inventory ................. Page 7 V. Level of Service .............................. Page 19 VI. Assessment of Needs and Conclusions............ Page 21 VII. Priorities / Recommendations ................... Page 42 VIII. Implementation Schedule ...................... Page 47 IX. Existing & Available Mechanisms ............... Page 51 X. Summary .................................... Page 53 Appendix I. Park Photographs 1I. Citizen Survey Results I. INTRODUCTION In 2009, the City of Allen commissioned MHS Planning and Design, LLC to assist in developing a new Parks and Open Space Master Plan. This plan is a follow-up to Allen's 2000 Parks and Open Space Master which has guided additions to and renovations of the park system over the last 10 years. The 2010-2020 Parks and Open Space Master Plan is intended to: • Provide the City of Allen with an information base to help guide decisions related to parks, recreation and open space • Assist in the implementation of those decisions and set guidelines for future park and open space development • Provide feasible recommendations to the governmental body and be in accordance with the desires of Allen's residents • Include all land within the City of Allen • Provide parks and open space project recommendations through 2020 • Provide emphasis and detailed cost projections for projects recommended for implementation The following pages of the Master Plan contain: • Goals and objectives for a comprehensive city wide parks and open space network • The methodology used in developing the plan • An inventory of existing facilities which make up the park network • An analysis of local needs, the adopted parks, recreation and open space priorities • The implementation program developed to guide the city in accomplishing the proposed projects within the plan's time frame • Potential funding sources that may assist with the implementation of the proposed projects CITYOFALLEN City efAllen Parks & Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 2 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 • An average elevation of 650 feet above mean sea level • Accessed by US Highway 75 and State Highway 121 The City of Allen's climate and average rainfall do not pose significant barriers to outdoor activities due to the fact that the weather is generally mild and any extreme changes are short in duration. • Temperatures range from a mean minimum in January of 34 degrees Fahrenheit to a mean maximum in July of 96 degrees Fahrenheit. • The average fust freeze is mid-November and the average last freeze is mid March • The average rainfall is 40.4 inches per year • The basic soil type is black clay, although much of the northeast section of Allen is occupied by shallow limestone. CITYOFALLEN rhe Edge at Allen SUGon I`.irk CiN ojAllen Parks & Open Space Master Plan 1010-2020 Page 3 The following are key points regarding the founding, history and important aspects of the unique community of Allen, Texas. • Allen was originally inhabited by Caddo and Comanche Indian tribes. • The European and American immigrants arrived in the early 1840's and forced the tribes north ofthe Red River and the last known conflict occurred along Rowlett Creek in 1844. • Allen was part of the Peter's Colony Land Grant from the Republic of Texas. • The Houston and Texas Central Railroad was constructed in 1872 and laid the original township of Allen. • Southern Pacific Railroad acquired the railroad in 1883 and the Texas Traction Company purchased right-of-way on the west side of the main line track to construct the Interurban street car line through Allen in 1907. • After a devastating fire in 1915 and the closing of the Interurban line in 1948, the population of Allen steadily declined to 400 residents in 1950. • Allen was officially incorporated in 1953 and Home Rule Status and a Council/Manager form of government was adopted in 1979. • In 1960 the construction of US 75 began and impacted the growth of Allen. • Developmental Leeming Materials and InteCom, Inc. moved to Allen in the 1980's and helped the rise of corporate startups. Allen's Current Demographics • Population estimate - 85,288 (August 31, 2010) • Ethnic breakdown - - 8 L l % White Non -Hispanic - 10.8 % Hispanic - 6.9 % African American - 8.0 % Asian -Indian - 2.4 % Other • Median household income - $123,879 • Senior citizen population -+/- 4,000 Information obtained from the Allen Economic Development Corporation. City afAllen Parks& Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page H. 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 park planners' 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 bail 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 Gaal: To identify, protect and preserve 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, andutilityeasements that will linkpublic andpnvate 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,U.LF:N City afAllen Parks d Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 5 III. METHODOLOGY The current planning effort officially began in 2009 when the City of Allen began to address the parks and open space opportunities throughout the city. A handful of Allen's city staff were appointed to guide the development ofthe master plan for future park and recreation opportunities. The city staff were involved in each major step of the planning process and provided the local insight needed to produce a successful master plan. Several steps were taken in order to create a successful and realistic Master Plan. • The initial step in evaluating the parks and open space system in Allen was to inventory the existing parks, open space and recreational resources. • The developed park acreage was compared to the existing population in order to establish the current level of service. • The existing parks were evaluated against national standards published by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) to allow for an objective review of the park system. • A citizen survey was developed and a total of 1,414 surveys were received online giving input on Allen's existing park system and future park development. • Focus group meetings were conducted to obtain more information from multiple environmental, civic and athletic groups. Based on the citizen input, existing inventory, available resources and professional opinion, potential park projects were developed that included additional parks and recreational facilities for the City of Allen. Once the master project list was developed and refined, the projects for the city were prioritized based on local demand and perception of needs. Budget estimates were generated for each project and possible funding sources were identified. CTIYOPAI.f.®V City ofAllen Parks & Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 6 ■ IV. PARK CLASSIFICATION & INVENTORY The park classification system for all parks in the city is broken down into nine categories and when combined, form a park network that covers the entire spectrum of recreation. ■ PockettOrnamental Park A pocket or omamental park is a small park (usually less than two acres) developed for passive ■ recreation. (Example - Liberty Garden Park) ■ ■ Mini -Neighborhood Parks ■ A mini -neighborhood park is a site of approximately one to four acres and serves the area with a ■ one-quarter mile radius with both active and passive recreational opportunities. (Example - Green Park) ■ ■ Neighborhood Parks ■ A neighborhood park is a site of approximately five to ten acres and serves the area within a one- half mile radius with both active and passive recreational opportunities. Neighborhood parks ■ provide access to different outdoor activities for residents living in close proximity. (Example - Country Meadows Park) Community Parks A community park is a site of approximately 40 to 150 acres with a service area radius of two miles and provides both active, passive and often primitive(nature oriented) recreation. Community parks provide a large variety of outdoor activities, opportunities for environmental education and encourage social community activities. (Example - Bethany Lakes Park) Special Use Parks The special use park classification covers a broad range of parks and recreation facilities that focus on one or two specific recreational uses; typically sports fields. Facility space requirements are the primary determinants of site size and location. For example, a golf course may require 150 acres, whereas a community center with parking may only require 10 or 15 acres. Special use parks provide areas for specific activities to allow groups with common interests to participate together. (Example - Edge at Allen Station Park) City of Allen Parks & Open Space Master Plan 1010-2010 Peg. 7 ■ Regional Parks Regional parks typically are a minimum of 50 acres and serve a larger area than the community alone. Regional parks typically have the same type of amenities as community parks and focus on community-based recreation but are much larger in size. Regional parks typically have land set aside to preserve as unique landscapes or natural open space. (Example - Celebration Park) Greenbelts Greenbelts or greenbelt parkways are linear parks that are typically developed around a natural resource such as a creek, river, utility easement or lake shore. Not only does a greenbelt system preserve valuable open space and natural habitats, it ties the park systems' components together to form a cohesive park environment. Greenbelt corridors of less than fifty (50) "useable" feet wide should be avoided and narrow corridor sections kept to a minimum. One -hundred foot corridor widths and wider give flexibility in design and are encouraged wherever possible. (Example - Bluffs at Lost Creek Park) Natural Areas Natural areas are spaces containing ecosystems in a non -disturbed state with minimal man-made intrusions. Natural areas lend a certain aesthetic and functional diversity to a park network and urban landscape. Although the benefits of natural areas are hard to quantify, they are numerous and include preservation of wildlife habitats, opportunities for nature study and encourage environmental health in the community. When flood plains are preserved as natural areas, they offer a resource to aid in the protection from flooding. There are no national standards for natural areas within a city due to the extreme variations found in natural resources from region to region. (Example - nay Springs Nature Preserve) Indoor Recreation Indoor recreation centers provide a wide variety ofrecreational opportunities in a controlled setting which allows citizens to enjoy year round activities. Recreation centers may include both passive and active recreational amenities. The key to a successful recreation center is the flexibility built into the design of the center, which allows for the same facility to be used for multiple activities. This enables the center to accommodate changing interests and trends with little or no physical City of Allen Parks d Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page g improvements required to the facility itself. The NRPA national standard has been one indoor recreation center per 20,000 to 30,000 population. (Example - Joe Farmer Indoor Recreation Center) Each park category serves a unique purpose: • Pocket and ornamental parks enhance the visual image of the community and can provide a minimal recreational amenity in older neighborhoods where park land was never acquired. • Neighborhood parks serve as a family-oriented gathering place for neighborhoods. • Commit ityparks provide a mix ofactive, passive andprimitive recreational opportunities and lighted sports fields. • Special useparks provide a specific venue and are devoted to oneortwouses- typically sports. • Greenbelts are natural areas usually containing a pedestrian trail that ties other park types together. • Natural areas provide a visual escape from the built environment. • Indoorrecreatilonprovides recreational opportunities in acontrolled environmenithat=often not available outdoors. n 1/4 Mile 2,500 sq.0. 500.2,500 Landscaping, drinking $65,000 - Pocket/ Ornamental to 2 acres fountains, sidewalks and $80.000 Park benches Per Acre mi -Neighborhood 1/4 Mile 1 acre to 500-2,500 Paved area, playground $90,000 - Park 4 acres apparatus, landscaping, S150,000 sidewalks, drinking fountains, lawn area, Per Acre benches Neighborhood 1/2 Mile 5 acres l0 2,000-10,000 Playground apparatus, $70,000 - Park 10 acres picnic area(s), pavilion, $100,000 play courts, play fields, restroom, natural open Per Acre space landscaping & parking Community Park 2 Miles 40 acres to 10,000-50,000 Tennis courts, sports fields, $30,000- 150 acres playground apparatus, $50,000 picnic area(s), pavilions, Per Acre walking/jogging trails, swimming pools, open space, landscaping, recreation centers, resnooms & parking 11 • Development costs are based on 2010 dollars I City Of Allen Parks & Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 9 Classification Service Siac Population Typical Development Area Served Facilities Cost" Special Use Park Varics Determined Varies- Concentration afore or Varies - Dependent by primary Dependent on two of the following: oa prlmrry nsc use primary use Baseball/softball complex, keeper fields, tennis centers, sports stadiums, golf courses, performing arts parks, amphitheaters & ornamental gardens Regional Park 10 Miles Varies Entire urban Sports fields, tennis courts, $2,000,000 arca lakes, swimming & up complexes, campgrounds, hike bike trails, golf courses, nature areas, play structures, restrooms & maple parking Greenbelts Varies Varies 5,000 to entire Landscaping, multi-purpose $200,000 - community trails, benches, information $500,000 kiosks, exercise courses & per mile drinking fountains Natural Areas Varies Determined Entire Nature trails, multi-purpose Varies by resource community trails, benches, picnic areas, wildlife viewing station., educational component., information kiosks, interpretive signs, exercise courses & drinking fountains Indoor Recreation Varies 10,000 sq. B. 20,000 - 30,000 Walking track, fitness $3,000,000 - Center Minimum rooms, gymnasium, weight $7,000,000 room, racquetball/squash courts, indoor swimming pool, meeting/convention L__ facilities, arts and crafts rooms & day cue facilities Development costs are based on 2010 dollars. CFI'Y OFALLEN City of Allen Parks d: Open Space Master Plan 2010-1010 Page 10 Existing Parks and Open Space - Inventory 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 and the Existing Community Park Map. Ideally, all developed areas of the city should fall within the service area of a neighborhood park and a community park. Existing Parks and Open Space City of Allen Parks d Open Space Matter Plan 2010-2020 Page I I Name Type of Park Developed Total Facilities Acrn Acres 1 AIIcn Scnior Ctmcr Special -Use 5.6 8.2 • Lounge • Computers • Ballroom • Multi-purpose rooms Cafeteria • Fitness rooms and machines • Table games/video room 2 Alien Station Park Community 44 87 • Five baseball fields • Four softball fields • Multi-purpose trails • Playground • Horseshoe/washer pits • The All.. Heritage Village • The Allen Water Station Bile (Allen Dam) • Natural areae Picnic facilities • Two restroom/concession T faCII11tC9 3 Allenwood Park Neighborhood 3.9 3.9 Plalground • Mu lo -purpose trail Payslion • Picnic facilities 4 Bethany Lakes Park Community 47.9 47.8 Joe Farmer Recreation Center Gym - Two classrooms - Fitness room (weighis/machines) - Two racquetball courts - Amphitheater Game room • Fishing ponds with pier • Multi-purpose trail • Playground • Disc ggolf course • Baeebal"maball practice field Restroom/concession facility • Open lawn areas for practice • Veterans Memorial • Cancer Walk of Hope • Clubhouse Pavilion • Picnic facilities 5 Bethany Ridge Park Neighborhood 7.1 7.1 Fishing pond with pier • Playyground • Mu ti -purpose trail • Open space • Undeveloped picnic area City of Allen Parks d Open Space Matter Plan 2010-2020 Page I I City ofAlfen Parks d: Open Space Master Plan 2010-1010 Page 12 N 9 Type of Perk I Developed Total Facilities Acres Acres 6 Bluffs at Lost Creek Greeubelt 5 13.4 Multi-purpose trails Pavilion • Picnic facilities 7 Bolin Park Special -Use 11 I I Two baseball Fields • Two soccer fields • Restroom/concession facility 8 Bradford Crossing Neighborhood 4 4 Baseball/softball practice field Park 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 Park 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 restroom/concession facilities 11 Chase Oaks Golf Club Special -Use 260.9 260.9 • Golfcourne 12 Collin Square Greenbelt .4 8.9 • Open space Greenbelt 13 Cottonwood Band Mini- 3.9 3.9 Playground Park Neighborhood Two baseball/softball practice fields • Picnic facilities Open lawn areas for practice 14 Country Meadows Neighborhood 7.4 7.4 Multi-purpose trails Park Playground • Open lawn areas for practice Pavilion • Picnic facilities 15 Custer Meadows Greenbelt 2.3 2.3 Natural open apace Multi -use trails • Playground 16 Day Spring Nature Natural Area 1.6 11 Natural areas Prescrse Playground Pavilion • Multi -use trails Creek overview • Wildflower planting area City ofAlfen Parks d: Open Space Master Plan 2010-1010 Page 12 CITY OFALLEN City oJAllen Parks & Open Space Master Plan 2010-1020 Page 13 Type of Park Developed Total Facilities Acres Acres 17 Edge at Allen Station Sprcl:J-t 11.3 11.3 Visitors/Youth Center Park - Skew parts shop - Game room/indoor (beater - Video game room - Computer lab - Concessions • Skate park BMX track • Hockey rink • Multi-use trail • Creek 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/concession facility 20 Ford Park North Mini- 0 5.6 Neighborhood 21 Ford Park West Community 19.7 19.7 • Swimming pool • 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 lawn areas for practice Pavilion Picnic facilities 23 Green Park Mioi- 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 • Multi-use trails 25 Heritage Park Mioi- 1.6 3 • Playground Neighborhood • Multi-use had Natural areas • Picnic facilities 26 Hillside Ballfields Special-Use 9 9 • Blue Sky Indoor Soccer Complex (Currently under - Currently under construction renovation - future • Neighborhood park improvements name change) in the future CITY OFALLEN City oJAllen Parks & Open Space Master Plan 2010-1020 Page 13 City of Allen Parke & Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 14 Now Type of Park Developed Total Facilities Acres Acres 27 Hillside Play Arcs 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 • BasebalVsoBball 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 Six Cities Trail site 33 Morgan Crossing Park Mini- .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 • BasebalUsoftball practice field • Multi -use bell Pavilion • Picnic facilities 37 Raintree Park Neighborhood 0 6.1 38 Reed Park East Mini- 3.4 3.4 Tennis court Neighborhood Lacrosse field • Picnic facilities • In-line hockey rink 39 Reed Park West Neighborhood 5.8 5.8 Baseball/softball practice field • Three Playgrounds • Trail with interpretive signage • Open lawn 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 Rolling Hills Park Mini- .5 .5 Playground r Neighborhood Interpretive signage • Landscaping • Picnic facilities City of Allen Parke & Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 14 ■ ■ City ofA/len Parks & Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 15 Name Type of Park Developed Total Facilities Acres Acres 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 • Natural 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 halfamin basketball courts • Playground • Muld-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 47 Stoutest, 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 69 Natural open space Multi-purpose trail Soft surface interpretive trail 49 Twin Creeks Park Neighborhood 11 11 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 Walters Branch Community 0 50.4 Property City ofA/len Parks & Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 15 ■ ■ ■ ■ �_ ■ CITY OFALLEN 61v ojAl[en Parks & Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 16 Name Type of Park Developed Total Facilities Acres Acres 53 Watters Crossing Park Neighborhood 8.1 oundpurpose sports courtawn areas for practicen I facilities54 Windridge Property Pocket 0 El Total Park Acres 1,086.2 Total Developed ]26J Aerea ■ ■ ■ ■ �_ ■ CITY OFALLEN 61v ojAl[en Parks & Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 16 0 oho o c jP\moi. Si F>✓ � DST PARU cTI ° 1 v5! p LIS-- biDL ALLF TTE f PER PASS p °a. TRA.ATRLI �` ° .* ATTERS �Inrx+� ❑ _ n Yp r �i'o`• o O •a9 S T � IVA �.�O V�'o�0 ly'Yi1 'm �� ,. glJ�jr-�. S1 '=��, V. 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 ten acres ofpark land for every 1,000 residents. Based on the specific needs of a community, levels of service ranging from five acres of developed park land per 1,000 people to 15 acres of developed park land per 1,000 people are typically targeted. It is important to note that the level of service for parks and open space is based on useable space and, therefore, undeveloped park land should not be a factor in the level of service calculation. Although private recreational facilities and golf courses should be considered when establishing the desired level of service for that activity to be provided by the community, the actual acreage is not typically used in the calculation because they are not owned by the city. The City of Allen currently owns 1,086.2 total park acres and a total of 726.3 acres of the 1,086.2 acres are developed. The current level of service for the City of Allen is 8.5 acres of developed park land per 1,000 residents. The City of Allen owns a total of 12.7 acres of total park land per 1,000 people when calculating both developed and undeveloped properties. Bethany Ridge Park City a/Allen Parka d Open Spare Master Plan 1010-2020 Page 19 The following table shows the total park acres, developed park acres and the level of service for each different type of park classification in Allen in 2010. P on Total a Ames mow0 Park Acres (Tom] Developed Park Pocket Park .64 1.0 .008 Mint -Neighborhood Park 19.9 38.4 ,24 Neighborhood Park 108 132.4 13 Community Park 135.5 360.2 1.6 Special Use Park 314 319.1 3.8 Regional Park 99.4 99,4 1.2 Greenbelt 41.7 119.1 .50 Natural Area 7.2 16.6 .09 Total Park Acres 1,086.2 129 Total Developed Acres 726.3 8.5 2010 Estimated Population - 85,288 - August 31, 2010 - Allen EDC website 2020 Estimated Population - 95,000 Level of Service based on the number of DEVELOPED park acres per 1,000 population CITY OF ALLEN City of Allen Parks & Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 20 VI. ASSESSMENT OF NEEDS AND CONCLUSIONS Recreational needs are determined using the following planning approaches: • Demand Based - what the citizens desire • Standard Based - what the park standards call for • Resource Based - what the local natural resources can offer • Capacity Based - what sport facilities can accommodate based on, scheduling and maintenance This combination allowed the desires for recreational opportunities expressed by citizens with different interests to be compared with NRPA standards and peer cities while at the same time recognizing the unique natural attributes of the area. The Needs Assessment integrates supply and demand. • The supply- existingpark and recreation facilities and the natural resources of the area • The demand -identified through the stated goals and objectives, the concept of level of service, national standards and most importantly, input from local citizens. Local needs were determined through: • Public meetings • Focus group meetings • Citizen survey • Elected officials interviews • Parks Board meetings • Professional city staff interviews The result is a balanced analysis which reflects the parks and recreation needs and desires of Allen residents through 2020. ■ The following table depicts populations for the City of Allen today and projections throughout the planning period. ■ 85,288 90,000 95,000 ■ City of All" EDC website. ■ 17, ALLEN City oJAllen Parks d Open Space Master Plan 1010-7070 Pege 21 ■ Citizen Survey Results In January of 2010, the City of Allen posted an online survey regarding the existing park system and the expectations of residents regarding the future park system. A total of 1,414 citizens responded to the survey with opinions about the existing facilities and the need for the future of Allen's Park System. The majority of the respondents (55%) were between the ages of 35-44 and twenty-three percent (23%) were 45-54 years old. In addition, the survey was broken down into different quadrants of the city in order to we how needs differed in the four portions of Allen. The graphic to the right expresses the percentages of returned surveys in each quadrant of the city. MW SW 08°04 The following list is a summary of the key responses regarding the City of Allen's Park System. The complete survey results can be found in Appendix U. • Ninety-eightpercent(980/o)ofthe respondents expressedthat the role ofparks, recreation and open spaces are "extremely important" or "important" in Allen. • Ninety-six percent (960/6) of the respondents "strongly agree" or "agree" that parks and recreation facilities are well worth the cost to taxpayers. • Eighty-six percent (86%) ofthe respondents expressed that additional parks and recreational facilities are needed in Allen. • Seventy-four percent (74%) of the respondents expressed that existing parks should be upgraded and/or improved to include additional facilities. • Eighty-seven percent (87%) of the respondents expressed that residential neighborhoods, schools and parks should be connected with linear parks such as trails along creeks and corridors. • Ninety-one percent (910/4) of the respondents expressed the Allen park system is good or excellent. Ciy of Allen Parks Q Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 22 ■ The acquisition and development of park land and the maintenance of park facilities can be ■ expensive. Residents were asked theirpreferred form of funding in order to develop and maintain ■ parks. Each respondent had the opportunity to choose their top three responses with the number one response being worth three points, number two response worth two points and the number three response worth one point. The following table represents the top answers when asked where funding future parks should come from other than state grants. Rank Preferred Form of Funding Weighted Scores I Bond Program 328 2 Donations 280 3 Sales Tex 255 4 Property Tax 172 5 Park User Fees 95 The survey had a question asking citizens what facilities they want added to the Allen park system. Twenty-seven recreational facilities were listed and each respondent was to choose their top five choices and rank 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. Non -Organized Sports Related Facility Priorities Rank Facilities Weighted Sea" I Multi -use Paved Trails 1,420 2 Nature Trails 1,317 3 Shade at Playgrounds and Other Facilities 1,290 4 Nature Areas 891 5 Indoor Recreation Centers 626 6 B.4micaVFlower Gardens 533 7 Outdoor Swimming Pools 532 8 Dog Parks 528 9 Water Features (creeks, small lakes, etc) 515 CITYOFALLEN City ojA([en Parks &Open Space Maser Plan 2010-2020 Page 23 Rank Facilities Wei bted Score 10 Playgrounds 479 I I Picnic Sbelters/Pavilions 451 12 Lawn Areas for General Play 428 13 Fishing Piers/Docks 425 14 Sprayground/Small Water Parks 401 15 Sand Volleyball Courts 388 16 Camping/Day Camps 384 17 Indoor Swimming Pools 310 I8 Bandstand/Amphitheaters 292 19 Kayak/Canoe Rentals 289 20 Cummunity Gardens 279 21 Disc Golf Courses 207 22 Skate Parks 85 23 Horseshoe/Washer Courts 53 The following table represents the rank and weighted scores of the sports -related facility priorities desired by residents. Organized Sports -Related Facility Priorities Rank Facilities Wel hied Score I Sports Practice Fields Multi -use 1,473 2 Football Fields 1,190 3 Basketball Courts 848 4 Soccer Fields 807 5 Baseball Fields 666 6 Tennis Centers 558 7 Lacrosse Fields 381 8 Adult Softball Fields 325 9 Youth Softball Fields 189 10 Cricket Fields 68 CITY OFALLEN City of Allen Parks &Open Space Master Plan 2010-1020 Page 24 In order to better understand the desires and needs of senior citizens in Allen, the fscilitypriorities forages 55 and up were tabulated separately. The following table represents the rank and weighted scores of the senior citizen's top ten priority facilities. Senior Citizen Facility Priorities Rank Facilities Weighted Score i Nature Trails 107 2 Nature Areas 91 3 B otanical/F lower Gardens 79 4 Shade at Playgrounds and other Facilities 65 5 Multi -use Paved Trails 49 6 Water Features (creeks, small lakes, etc) 46 7 Dog Parks 44 8 Bandstand/Amphitheaters 39 8 Sports Practice Fields 39 9 Picnic Sheltens/Pavilions 35 10 Football Fields 33 . Focus Groups and Public Meetings ■ In order to better understand the needs ofcitizens, focus group meetings and public meetings were ■ heldin Allen. Thepublic meetings were well attended and the focus groups were informative tools to get specific information regarding different organizations, clubs, groups and sports organizations ■ around town. The following list is representative of the most common comments and concerns head throughout the meetings. • The Master Plan needs to address developingnewparks onexistingproperties and upgrading ■ existing parks rather than acquiring new land - focus must remain on what the city already ■ owns. • The City of Allen needs first class facilities with a high level of maintenance in order to compete with surrounding cities. • The City of Allen has numerous trails but needs to connect the trail segments in order to ■ create a trail network. ■ CITYOFALLEN City of Allen Parks & Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 25 • The city needs more passive parks - areas with shade and benches. • The City of Allen and Allen ISD have a close working relationship. This relationship needs to be continued and expanded where practical. • The City of Allen is focused on quality and detail in the park facilities and needs to continue in that direction. • The city needs to consider an increase in the maintenance budget to continue to have top quality facilities. • The city needs to provide more programming - educating and encouraging youth to be more active as additional parks come online. • Greenbelts need to remain in their natural conditions - little to no maintenance is necessary. • Joe Farmer Recreation Center is too small. • More practice and game fields are needed for each organized sport. • The Natatorium needs childcare for parents with young children in order to allow parents to participate. • Recycling and other green initiatives need to be improved within the park system - especially Celebration Park. Senior Citizen Focus Group Meeting Senior citizens are a growing demographic and have their own needs and desires from the Allen Park System and need to be considered when planning and constructing facilities. In order to better understand senior citizen needs, a focus group was held at the Allen Senior Recreation Center. The following are key points from the participants at the senior center. • The variety of activities, the great staff, Casino Night and the meals are all successes at the Allen Senior Recreation Center. • The center is beneficial to seniors because it is a great place to interact with friends and they provide transportation within and outside of the community. Additional walking trails and security are needed in the park system. • The Allen Park System needs more: 17, _ QIYOFAId.6N - Trails - Covered pavilions - Community gardens - Benches - Art opportunities City */Alien Parka Q Open Space Marler Plan 1010-1010 Page 26 New Parks - Needs Based on responses from the citizen survey, input from focus group and public input meetings it is apparent that the City of Allen needs new parks and additional developed park acreage. Each park within the park network has a service radius to identify how far people are typically willing to travel to a particular park from the surrounding area. It is estimated that people are most often willing to walk 'h mile to a neighborhood park. When asked if residents could reasonably and safety walk to a city park in Allen from their home, a total of seventy percent (70%) of the respondents stated yes. The majority of the city is covered by the '/s mile service radii from all the parks. (Reference the Existing Parks and Open Space Map on page 16.) A total of eighty-six percent (860/6) of the survey respondents feel that additional parks and facilities are needed in Allen. The City of Allen owns nine undeveloped properties located across the city that can be developed into new parks. These nine undeveloped properties total 217.8 acres. The City of Allen's primary focus should be on developing the following undeveloped properties. The secondary focus should be to acquire new parkland in unserved areas. Undeveloped Properties .'Name 1 Estevie Property Type of Park Community Total Acres 70.2 2 Ford Park North Mini -Neighborhood 5.6 3 Lower Waiters Branch Property Neighborhood 10.7 4 Molten Farm Community 61.1 5 Orchards Property Mini -Neighborhood 2.7 6 Parkside Property Mini -Neighborhood 4.3 7 solstice Park Neighborhood 6.1 8 Waiters Branch Property Community 50.4 9 W indridge Property Pocket .4 10 Northwest Special Use Property Special -Use 6.3 New parks are needed in the City of Allen and fortunately the city owns many undeveloped properties that can satisfy that need. 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 oftown. City o/AOen Parks Q Open Space MasterPlan 2010-2020 Page 27 Existing Parks - Needs In addition to developing existing undeveloped 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 of 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-four percent (74%) 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 existingpark system and needs to continue this approach. Thecity needs to upgrade and improve the oldest existing facilities e.g. Watters Crossing Park, to continue satisfying local needs.. Additional walking trails, playgrounds, benches, shaded areas, picnicking shelters/pavilions and enhanced landscaping are all examples of upgrades to the existing park system that are needed. The Chase Oaks Golf Course is in need of re -development to encourage more youth, female and recreational players. The Chase Oaks Master Plan was previously completed and needs to be implemented in orderto create amore playable and less maintenance intensive course. Thecurrent driving range at the course is undersized and needs to be re -developed to allow for more participants to practice at a time. in addition, each park playground needs to be reviewed for compliance with the current safety guidelines established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Alan, all existing park and recreation facilities need to be evaluated in terms of accessibility and upgraded (if needed) to meet the accessibility standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). CIl'Y OFALiflV City of Allen Parks d Open Space Master Plan 20/0-2020 Page 28 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 sport 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. Youth Athletics Football - Youth football is a popular sport in the City of Allen and is currently growing at a fast rate and should 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 46 teams play on four 80 -yard fields and 36 teams play on two 100 yard fields. This past 2010 Spring season, the youth football league had a total of 82 teams participating on a total of six 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) The following table represents the current Rod future needs of the youth football program based on the num her of teams per field. (Assumes Lovejoy I Iigh School fields will be available in 2020) *The estimated number ofteams in 2020 is based on double the City of Allen's 1.2% population growth per year -a tocol of 2A o. Youth football is currently lacking one I00 -yard football field if they continue to play at Lovejoy. If Lovejoy is no longer an option or available then two 100 yard football fields will be needed. By the year 2020, youth football will need one additional 80 yard field and two 100 yard fields. City otrAlle s Parks d Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 29 Number of Number of Number of Numberof Number of Existing Required Required Field Sizes Game Fields Teams Game Fields Teams Game Fields 2010 2010 2010 2020: 2020 80 Yards 4 46 4 58 5 100 Yards 2 36 3 45 4 Total 6 82 r 103 9 *The estimated number ofteams in 2020 is based on double the City of Allen's 1.2% population growth per year -a tocol of 2A o. Youth football is currently lacking one I00 -yard football field if they continue to play at Lovejoy. If Lovejoy is no longer an option or available then two 100 yard football fields will be needed. By the year 2020, youth football will need one additional 80 yard field and two 100 yard fields. City otrAlle s Parks d Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 29 In addition, if the City of Allen develops Jupiter Park into a dog park then two additional 80 -yard football fields will be needed to replace the existing fields. 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 - 60'x 90 fields (U6) • 6 - 90' x 120' fields (U8) • 6 - 150' x 240' fields (U10) • 2 - 180' x 300' fields (U15) • 1 - 240'x 300 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. In order to calculate the current use of the fields, the highest number of teams was used in each age group, regardless of the season. 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. "Fhe estimated number of teams in 2020 is based on double the City of Allen's 1.2% population growth per year - a total of 2.4% increase per year. CITY OF ALLEN CilyojAllen Parks & Open Space Master Plan 1010-2020 Page 30 Number of Number of Number of Number of Number of Age Groupa Existing Teams Required Teams Required Game Fields 2010 Game Fields 2020• Game Fields 2010 2010 2020 U5 -U6 8 109 9 136 12 U7 -Us 6 91 8 113 10 U9-UIO 6 52 5 65 6 UII-U15 2 128 13 35 3 U16 -U19 1 21 2 27 3 Total 23 301 27 376 34 "Fhe estimated number of teams in 2020 is based on double the City of Allen's 1.2% population growth per year - a total of 2.4% increase per year. CITY OF ALLEN CilyojAllen Parks & Open Space Master Plan 1010-2020 Page 30 There is currently a need for four additional soccer fields in Allen and an additional seven more fields by the year 2020. There is a need for additional fields due to the fact that soccer games are typically only played on Saturdays which limits the amounts of games that can be played per week and because of the large amount of participation in the growing sport. Baseball - The youth baseball league in Allen has slowly grown over the past few years and is projected to continue to grow over the next ten years. Different age groups play on different sized fields and the City of Allen currently offers eleven fields: • 4 - 200' fields at Allen Station Park (U4 - U12) • 2 - 225' fields at Celebration Park (U4 -U12) • 2 - 250' fields at Bolin Park (U13 - U15) • 2 - 300' fields at Allen Station Park and Celebration Park (One field per park) (U13 - Ul5) • 1 - 325' field at Celebration Park (U16 - U18) Boys baseball games are typically played five days a week leaving Wednesdays and Sundays available for rest and minout days. Typically each 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 as the targeted standard. The following table represents the carrying capacity of the youth baseball fields based on the number of teams in Allen. *The estimated number of teams in 2020 is based on double the City of Allen's 1.2% population growth per year - a total of 2.4% increase per year. CM OF ALLEN City of Allen Park, & Open Spate Master Plan 20/0-2020 Page 31 Number of Number of Number of Number of Age Groups s Required Game Fields Teams Required Game Fields 10 2010 2020• 2020 U4 -U10 6 Ito % Ulf -1112 n'', 1 10 I 1113-1115 1 5 UI6-U18 u 1 Tola1 8 126 II *The estimated number of teams in 2020 is based on double the City of Allen's 1.2% population growth per year - a total of 2.4% increase per year. CM OF ALLEN City of Allen Park, & Open Spate Master Plan 20/0-2020 Page 31 The City of Allen is projected to have a deficit of two U4 - U10 baseball fields by 2020. This particular age group can play on 200' or 225' fields. There is a current surplus of three baseball fields in the system, but the surplus is projected to be absorbed by the end of the planning period - 2020. Softball - The youth softball program in Allen has remained relatively consistent in the number of teams and players over the past few years. In 2009, atonal of 37 teams played on a total of four fields at Allen Station Park. The four fields are 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 using the one game field for each 12 teams standard, playing one game per week or 48 teams playing two games per week. No more youth softball fields are needed at this time or in 2020 at the projected growth rate of youth softball. "f he estimated number of teams in 2020 is based on double the City of Allen's 1.2% population growth per year - a total of 2.4% increase per year. Adult Athletics The City of Allen has a large following of participants in the adult leagues that include several different sports. The following recreational sports are all part of the adult leagues and need to be considered when integrating athletics into the park system due to the fact that Allen's adult population is a growing demographic. -_ CITY OFALI,F,N • Volleyball Ultimate Frisbee • Basketball Soccer • Flag Football Softball City of Allen Parka & Open Space Master Plan 2010-1010 Page 32 Numberof Existin Number Number Of Required Number of Number of Softball League a Game Fields Teams Teams Required 2010 Game Fields 2020' Game Fields 2010 2010 2020 Youth Softball 4 37 3 42 4 Total 7 4 42 4 "f he estimated number of teams in 2020 is based on double the City of Allen's 1.2% population growth per year - a total of 2.4% increase per year. Adult Athletics The City of Allen has a large following of participants in the adult leagues that include several different sports. The following recreational sports are all part of the adult leagues and need to be considered when integrating athletics into the park system due to the fact that Allen's adult population is a growing demographic. -_ CITY OFALI,F,N • Volleyball Ultimate Frisbee • Basketball Soccer • Flag Football Softball City of Allen Parka & Open Space Master Plan 2010-1010 Page 32 AduliSo tball -It is important to specifically consider the needs of adult softball because of the large number of participants. In 2009, a total of 5,904 residents participated in the adult softball league totaling 328 teams. The summer league typically has the most participants - 112 total teams this 2010 season. 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 foreach 32 teams for adult softball is recommended for Allen. This ratio will help the league accommodate rainouts and provide a small amount of flexibility in game scheduling. Based on the one field per 32 teams ratio, the following table shows the demand for adult softball. *The estimated number of teams in 2020 is based on double the City of Allen's 1.2% population growth per year - a total of 2.4% increase per year. There is currently a deficit of one adult softball field in the City of Allen and a total of two fields will be needed by the year 2020. In order to support the adult softball program, it is necessary to currently provide a total of four softball fields and a total of five by 2020. In order to provide for the adult leagues in Allen, an adult athletic complex is needed. An area that has soccer fields, a football field, at least two softball fields and multi-purpose fields is needed. This complex is needed not only because of the popularity and projected growth in adult sports but also because it will make other existing athletic fields and general use fields more readily available for youth sports. City of Allen Parks A Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 33 Number of Number of Number of Number of Number of Addt Existing Teams Required Teams Required Softball League Game Fields Game Fields 2020• Game Fields 2010 2010 2010 2020 Softball 3 112 4 139 5 Total 3 112 4 139 5 *The estimated number of teams in 2020 is based on double the City of Allen's 1.2% population growth per year - a total of 2.4% increase per year. There is currently a deficit of one adult softball field in the City of Allen and a total of two fields will be needed by the year 2020. In order to support the adult softball program, it is necessary to currently provide a total of four softball fields and a total of five by 2020. In order to provide for the adult leagues in Allen, an adult athletic complex is needed. An area that has soccer fields, a football field, at least two softball fields and multi-purpose fields is needed. This complex is needed not only because of the popularity and projected growth in adult sports but also because it will make other existing athletic fields and general use fields more readily available for youth sports. City of Allen Parks A Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 33 ■ ■ ■ Swimming Pool - Needs The City of Allen currently owns two swimming pools - an indoor pool and an outdoor pool. The indoor swimming facility is named the Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium(constructed in January 2002) and includes a competition swimming pool and leisure swimming areas. The outdoor pool is located at FordPark West and was constructed in 1986. Indoor aquatics ranked number 17 and outdompools ranked number seven onthe citizen survey. Currently, the one indoor facility fulfills the need for indoor aquatic needs and is sufficient for the City of Allen. The existing pool at Ford Park (24 years old) is in fair condition and has been well maintained but needs to be upgraded or re -developed in the near future to overcome continual repairs, provide more aquatic activities and to allow additional access for more users as the population continues to grow in Allen. The city needs to review and implement the "Ford Pool Master Plan" created in May of 2009 in order to fulfill the aquatic needs of the City of Allen residents. The plan suggests three different concepts for upgrades to the Ford Park Pool and they are as follows: Concept 1- Construct a new bathhouse in the existing bathhouse location and upgrade the existing pool using as much of the existing pool shell as possible. Concept 2 - Construct a new bathhouse in the existing bathhouse location, demolish the existing pool and construct a sprayground, lazy river, leisure pool with zero depth entry, waterslides and a separate diving well. Concept 3 - Construct a new bathhouse to a picturesque location across the creek from the vacant city property which can become the new parking area and entry across a pedestrian bridge. The aquatic features include the construction of a sprayground, lazy river, leisure pool with zero depth entry, waterslides, separate diving well and a drop slide feature. City of Allen Parks @ Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 34 ■ ■ ■ The implementation of Concept l will only provide a temporary fix for an aging and limited ■ facility. The implementation of Concept 2 or Concept 3 at Ford Pool will go a long way toward ■ satisfying the existing and projected demand for outdoor aquatic activities in Allen. It should be ■ noted that home owner association pools are moderately prevalent in Allen. Although these association pools satisfy a portion of the need foroutdoor pools, these facilities are typically small ■ and the need for a quality public outdoor pool is still very real. Trails - Needs Currently, the City of Allen does a great job in planning and constructing trails throughout the city. However, it is important to make sure all the trails are connected so that the individual trails become a purposeful trail system that connects residential areas, parks and businesses. Multi-purpose trails ranked number one in the citizen survey and a total of eighty-seven percent (87%) of the respondents strongly agreed or agreed that residential neighborhoods, schools and parks should be connected with linear parks such as trails along creeks and other corridors. The "Six Cities Trail Plan - A Regional Linkage Plan" must be followed in order to connect with trails in neighboring communities. bi addition, the "Linear Greenbelt Park Study" developed in 1986, discusses valuable concepts regarding linear greenbelts and trails and how they relate to the natural areas surrounding Allen. It is apparent that more trails and trail connections are needed in the City ofAllen. In addition, multi-purpose trails and soft -surfaced trails are needed in and throughout individual parks for walking, jogging and other forms of exercise. ■ �_ ■ CTCYOFALiFN City of Allen Parks d Open Space Master Plan 20/0-1020 Page 35 ■ ■ ■ Natural Open Space - Needs ■ The City of Allen needs to preserve natural open ■ spaces within the community in order to provide ■ spaces for primitive recreation and to preserve ■ valuable ecosystems. Since Allen is located in the Metroplex and surrounded by other built ■ communities, it is important to preserve any and all ■ natural areas. Nature areas ranked as number four ■ on the citizen survey and water features (creeks, ■ ponds, small lakes) ranked as number tea The ■ existing city -owned property, Molsen Farts, is a ■ large (+/- 60 acres) plot of land along Rowlett Creek. The Molsen Farm Master Plan proposed the development of small areas while preserving the most valuable natural open spaces found on the ■ site. East Rowlett Creek, West Rowlett Creek, Watters Branch Creek and Cottonwood Creek are ■ all key natural water resources in Allen and need to be preserved. Wood lots containing mature ■ vegetation and trees should also be preserved as practical. ■ ■ Indoor Recreation Center - Needs ■ The City of Allen currently has an indoor recreation center - Joe Farmer Recreation Center. It is located in southeast Allen at Bethany Lakes Park. Joe Farmer Recreation Center is relatively small ■ and not centrally located for easy access from all areas of the city space. Indoor recreation centers ■ ranked number five on the citizen survey and were frequently discussed at focus group meetings.. ■ It is apparent that there is a need for an additional recreation center or a larger, more centrally ■ located recreation center. In additional to a new recreation center, the City needs to continue to ■ research its options for an expansion of the existing Joe Farmer Recreation Center by reviewing ■ the"Joe Farmer Recreation Center- Options for Building Enhancement and Expansion- developed in July of 2008. This plan suggests four concepts that provide different functional avangements ■ and expansion options. Each concept builds on the previous concept - Concept 2 includes all the ■ amenities in Concept 1, Concept 3 includes all the amenities of Concepts 1 and 2 and Concept 4 ■ is the culmination of all the concepts which addresses all of the needs and desires of recreational ■ staff and City of Allen residents. ■City of Allen Parks d Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 36 ■ Concept 1 • Construct additional gymnasium and expand existing walking/r uming track • In -611 upper level floor above weight room for a new office space • Reduce upper level front desk to allow public access to stairs • Create an open-air covering above the existing entry bridge Concept • In -fill upper level above weight room for anew game room • Expand locker rooms into former lower level game room location • Enclose existing amphitheater stage to create two levels of new space for offices and an aembics/multi-use area Concept 3 • Construct enclosed entry which contains the location of the front desk, new monumental stairs and an elevator • Construct a cardiovascular center located below the newly enclosed entry • Remove the accessible ramp • Construct two multi -use spaces (one on each level) at the previous ramp location facing the lake to the south Concept • Construct an indoor sprayground in the current weight room location along with an adjacent outdoor spmyground • Expand the enclosed amphitheater stage on the lower level (only) to contain weight room and facility offices • Locate aembics/multi-use room above weight room and offices • Locate game room in lower level multi -use room at south of the facility The need for an addition recreation center in Allen is apparent and supported bythe citizen survey and public input meetings. Crl'Y OFALLEN City ofAllea Parka a: Open Space Marler Plan 1010-1020 Page 37 Senior Citizens - Needs Senior citizens play an important role in the City of Allen and have their own needs as a park user group. A focus group meeting was held at the Allen Senior Recreation Center in order to better understand the recreational needs of this growing segment of the community. The Allen Senior Recreation Center satisfies many needs for the older residents of Allen. Many seniors expressed the need for more walking trails, shaded areas, security, benches, community gardens and other outdoor activities. It is important to notice the top priorities of the senior citizens (page 22) all closely match the city's overall priorities (page 21). This is important because by providing specific needs for senior citizens, the City of Allen is also creating areas that are appealing and available to the entire community. Seniorcitizensare a growing population and fviluentlyuse the park system in Allen. Their needs should be considered when upgrading and/or constructing parks and outdoor spaces. Maintenance - Needs The City of Allen currently has first class park facilities and maintain these spaces very well. The high level of maintenance significantly contributes to the high use of the parks 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 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 use of native plants and materials and 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 high level. City a/Allen Parksd Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 38 ■ ■ Other - Needs Shade at playgrounds and other facilities ranked number three 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 existingvegetation and to plant more trees and/or provide shade structures. An annual tree planting program is needed in the City of Allen to ensure that trees are planted each year in order to have more shade in the parks and to improve the aesthetics of the overall park network. Art needs to be incorporated into the park system. Public art can be practical or solely for aesthetic purposes. Art in the park system can be in almost unlimited shapes and sizes and serve many different purposes 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 August of2005. 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. CITYOFALLEN City OfAllen Parks & Open Space Master Plan 1010-2020 Page 39 Conclusions It is important to analyze the actual needs of the community so that the recommendations and future development of Allen's park system are representative of what the residents desire. The city has been successful in providing recreational amenities and maintaining them at a high level. Multi-purpose trails were the number one priority on the citizen survey and were discussed in detail at several focus group meetings and public input meetings. It is evident that both naulti- purpose trails and nature trails are needed in Allen for recreation and connectivity. According to participants at the focus group meetings and the surveymsults, the natural areas and water features (East Rowlett Creek, West Rowlett Creek, Cottonwood Creek and Watters Branch Creek) all need to be preserved as Allen continues to grow. An indoor recreation center ranked number five and outdoor swimming pools ranked as number eight on the citizen survey and were both popular points of interest during many discussions at public input meetings. The following list consists of key points from the needs analysis: • Trails are needed for more connectivity throughout the community. • The existing open space and vacant land owned by the city needs to be developed into trail corridors, neighborhood parks and community parks. • 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 safe for all users. This includes making all public parks and facilities compliant with the ADA guidelines. • There is a need to redevelop the Chase Oaks Golf Course. • Multi-purpose sports practice fields need to be constructed in existing parks and parks scheduled for development. • There is a need for additional football fields for both youth and adults. • There is a need for two additional baseball fields within the next ten years. There is a need for additional youth soccer fields. • An expansion of Joe Farmer Recreation Center and/or an additional indoor recreation center needs to be constructed in Allen. • An additional or upgraded outdoor swimming facility is needed. • Nature trails, nature areas, enhanced landscaping, shade at the parks and multi -use paved trails are all needed to satisfy senior citizen's recreational needs. • Shade, both natural and constructed, should be incorporated into existing and future parks. City of Allen Parks Q Open Space Master Plan 10104010 Page 40 Many of the park needs herein identified have been studied in detail in the past. To fully understand the concepts and solutions proposed for the needs in the parks and open space system, the following reports should be consulted: Six Cities Trail Plan - A Regional Linkage Plan • Ford Pool Master Plan • Public Art Master Plan • Chase Oaks Golf Course Master Plan • Linear Greenbelt Park Study • Molsen Farm Master Plan • Joe Fanner Recreation Center - Options for Building Enhancement and Expansion FORD P0,01- MASTER OOLMASTER PLAN Firvµ Hcvoia Iy1AUFrv. iea�s [ CS. Ur�iixn lnl BUY141¢ oe F II l \ LINEAR GREENBELT11 CITY OFALLEN of Alk., Tmaf City ojAllen Parks & Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 41 VII. PRIORITIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS The following table represents the projected recreational facilities priorities for the Allen Park System. These priorities are based on the needs analysis, citizen survey, public input meetings, focus group input, city staff, the City of Allen Parks Board and professional opinion. 1 Trails 2 Sports Practice Fields 3 Nature Areas 4 Shade at Playgrounds and Other Facilities 5 Adult Softball Fields 6 Botanical/Flower Gardens 7 Football Fields 8 Indoor Recreation Center 9 Outdoor Swimming Facility 10 Soccer Fields 11 Dog Parks 12 Water Features (creeks, small lakes, etc) 13 Playgrounds 14 Picnic Shelters/Pavilions 15 Lawns for General PIE ■ CITYOFALLEN City ojAllen Parks d Open Space Master Plan 10/0-2020 Page 42 Recommendations The following actions are recommended to be implemented within the next ten years to ensure that the parks and open space system continues to meet the recreational needs of the city. New Parks Develop the Watters Branch Property into a community park. - Preserve the most valuable and aesthetically pleasing natural areas - Construct open lawn areas for sports practice fields/general play - Construct hard surfaced and soft surfaced trails - Construct playground - Construct sprayground - Construct pavilions and picnic stations - Plant trees for shade and landscape Develop the Molsen Farm Property - Construct hard and soft surfaced interpretive trails - Construct pedestrian overlooks - Enlarge existing pond - Construct community garden area - Construct environmental education center (adaptive rouse of existing buildings) - Create a working children's garden - Enlarge city tree farm - Restore prairie habitats Develop the Estevie Property into an adult league sports facility - Construct adult softball fields, football fields, soccer fields and multi-purpose fields - Construct trails along the creek - Preserve the creek corridor - Construct nature -oriented play area Existing Parks a Reconstruct Jupiter Park into a dog park. • Plant trees and construct pavilions for shade and aesthetic purposes. City o/Allen Parks d Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 43 • Continue re -development of the Chase Oaks Golf Course according to the master plan a Replace playgrounds (older than 15 years old) Athletic Facilities • Construct an adult league sports facility at the existing Estevie Property(See "New Parks") • Construct one additional 100 yard lighted football field. • Construct two 200' youth baseball fields. a Construct additional soccer fields- Fourcurrentlyneededand sevenadditional fields by202O. Current Need: - 1 -60'x90' field (U6) 1020 Need: - 3 - 60'x 90' fields (U6) - 1 - 90' x 120' fields (U8) - 2 - 90'x 120' fields (U8) - 1 - 180'x 300' field (U12) - 1 - 150'x 240' field (U10) - 1 - 240'x 300' field (U16 -U19) - 1 - 240'x 300' field (U6 -U19) Swimming Pool Follow Concept Number 3 in the Ford Pool Master Plan - Construct a new pool and a new bathhouse in the existing bathhouse location; implementing as much of the proposed additional water and site features as possible. Natural Open Space Preserve the most valuable and aesthetically pleasing natural open spaces -especially along East Rowlett Creek, West Rowlett Creek, Cottonwood Creek, Watters Branch Creekand their tributaries and in new parks - Watters Branch, Molsen Farms and the Estevie Property. Indoor Recreation Center Expand Joe Farmer Recreation Center - Option 4 in the "Options for Building Enhancement and Expansion - Joe Farmer Recreation CenteP' study. Senior Citizens Provide facilities such as: trails, nature areas, shade, botanical gardens, benches and picnic areas for senior citizens at all new and upgraded parks. Construct pedestrian bridge and trail to link the Allen Senior Recreation Center to the Allen Station Park trail system. City afA lien Parks & Open Space Master Plan 1010-1010 Page 44 Maintenance • Prepare and adopt a statistically- based maintenance study and master plan that will increase the maintenance staff and budget as the park system continues to grow. • Develop parks that are not overly maintenance intensive by including more natural areas and natural play (play opportunities with limited or no playground equipment). Trails • Develop trail linkages throughout Allen to connect schools, residential areas, commercial areas and parks. • Construct trail connections at the following locations in order to connect large segments of trails for better access throughout the community ( See map on following page) • Construct +/- y, mile of trail connections along Cottonwood Creek in order to create a+/- 7 mile trail loop that will connect residential neighborhoods, commercial areas and seven different parks. • Construct +/- 1,75 miles of trail along Exchange Parkway in areas without trail to connect the Estevie Property to Allen Station Park and to connect the west side of Allen to the east. The Exchange Parkway connections will create a +/- 6 mile trail loop that will connect residential neighborhoods, commercial areas and nine city parks. By constructing a total of+/- 2.25 miles of trail, the City of Allen can create two loops (+/- 6 mi. & +/- 7 mi.) and connect the western half of town to the eastern portion. This route will connect 16 different parks, residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, neighborhoods and create more connectivity throughout Allen. (See map on following page) n_ ■ CITYOFALLEN City -fAllea Parks & Open Space Master Plea 2010-2020 Page 45 i.FZ, o 2=- coo ooc 31ATUOS C-R + —_•) ® 0 : rii� `� - a X11 ♦ u �� b� ' f:', t /,.� ►�� !.H.r'�� ` °(� III A-1 e ,,, r i � u�di9 ir . ern 7 'y ML � � O IRU aEE E VIII. IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE Allen currently owns several undeveloped properties and it is highly recommended that the city develop those properties into parks. A list of 14 projects was created regarding the parks and open space system. The following list includes the ten year project priorities that should be implemented. CI'CY OFAL[.EN Project Date Estimated Potential Funding Cost* Source I Develop Waiters Branch Property 2010 $3,000,000 Allen Sports Association into a community park - TP&W Grant (Outdoor) - Nature trails $4,000,000 General Fund - Lighted baseball game fields General Obligation Bond (2 @ 200') - Open lawns for general play/sports practice fields - Nature areas - Pavilion - Picnic stations - Playground -Sprayground - Trees for shade 2 Construct .5 mi. of trail connections 2011 $250,000 TP&W Grant (Trail along Cottonwood Creek to create a - Grant) +/- 7 mi. trail loop $550,000 General Fund per mile General Obligation Bond 3 Continue development of the Chase 2011- $6,000,000 4(b) Sales Tax Oaks Golf Course 2012 - Private Donations $8,000,000 General Fund General Obligation Bond 4 Develop the Estevie Properly into an 2012- $3,500,000 Allen Sports Association adult league sports complex with 2013 - General Fund general park amenities $4,500,000 General Obligation Bond - Softball fields Other Grants & - Football field Partnerships - Multi -sports fields for general use: - Soccer - Lacrosse - Ultimate Frisbee 5 Construct a dog park at Jupiter Park 2013 $300,000 General Fund General Obligation Bond 6 Construct seven additional youth 2014 $700,000 Allen Sports Association soccer fields at Celebration Park in General Fund 1 the great lawn area General Obligation Bond CI'CY OFAL[.EN Project Date Estimated Potential Funding Cost* Source 7 Construct +/- 1.75 mi. of trail along 2014 $250,000 TP&W Grant (Trail Exchange Parkway in order to - Grant) connect East Allen and West Allen $550,000 General Fund and create a +/- 6 mi. trail loop per mile General Obligation Bond 8 Expand Joe Farmer Recreation 2015- $6,000,000 General Fund Center - Option 4 in the "Options 2016 - General Obligation Bond for Building Enhancement and $7,000,000 Expansion - Joe Farmer Recreation Center" study 9 Re -develop Ford Pool - Option 3 in 2017 $6,000,000 General Fund the Ford Park Pool Master Plan - General Obligation Bond $7,000,000 to Develop the Molsen Farm Property 2018 General Fond in accordance with the Molsen Farm General Obligation Bond Master Plan I l Develop trail linkages 2010- $250,000 TP&W Grant (Trail 2020 - Grant) $550,000 General Fund per mile General Obligation Bond 12 Acquire and preserve land along 2010 Land Dedication East and West Rowlett Creeks, 2020 Market Collin County Cottonwood Creek, Watters Branch Price Trust for Public Land Creek and their tributaries General Fund General Obligation Bond 13 Implement art into the parks in 2010- N/A Donation accordance to the Public Art Master 2020 General Obligation Bond Plan 14 Plant trees throughout all parks for 2010- General Fund shade and aesthetic u oses 2020 General Obligation Bond Note: Costs are preliminary estimates only and prepared without the benefit ofdetailed engineering. All costs shown are based on 2010 dollars and do not include fees associated with planning, engineering and/or architectural work that maybe required. Final construction costs will vary. Land acquisition is not included in the cost estimate. City ofAflen Parka Rr. Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 48 MW lv,— REENVIRa 1 4� ,I "ail 4T� A LRA-M-1 'v A A I RO,_,� WNWJ� - 1 axe \ � ?. � :1 e� E � R. ��'`t'_ � @ — F`.,. ✓ ter. �;w EP AR 0� `� , IISA L �,Po '111MtP1 'C' IA J� FIs W— Fl Imp ... YPYPE � O O C m Oma4 " a«mePK j WYE 0 711 JOB i IX. EXISTING AND AVAILABLE MECHANISMS In order to implement this park and open space plan update, there are a variety of funding mechanisms and tools available for use by the City of Allen. These include: SENATE BILL 3764B - SALES TAX REVENUES - Funds generated by this special sales tax can be used for developing and maintaining public recreational facilities. TEXAS RECREATION & PARKS ACCOUNT PROGRAM -This program, administered by Texas Parks and Wildlife, is a matching grant program which may be used to aid communities in acquisition and developmentofparks and open space. This grant program includes the Outdoor Recreation Acquisition and Development Program and the Texas Recreation & Parks Account Indoor Recreation Program. TEXAS RECREATIONAL TRAILS FUND - The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department administers the National Recreational Trail Fund through aprovision in the Federal Highway Bill. The National Recreational Trail Grants provides 800/a matching funds (maximum $100,000) for both motorized and non -motorized trail projects in local communities for hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, off-road motor vehicles, and nature enthusiasts. Funds can be utilized to construct new recreational trails, improve/maintain existing trails, develop/improve trail heads or trail side facilities, and acquire trail corridors. Eligible sponsors include city and county governments, state agencies, river authorities, water districts, MUDS, school districts, federal land managers, non-profit organizations, and other private organizations. . NATIONAL FISH AND WILDLIFE FOUNDATION - The national Fish and Wildlife Foundation promotes healthy populations of fish, wildlife, and plants by generating new commerce for conservation. The foundation leverages public dollars with corporate, private, and other non-profit funds. Fonds are available on an as -need basis. PAY AS YOU GO - This method of financing park improvements involves budgeting for land acquisition, development, and maintenance of park facilities through the city's annual budget process. Allocations for park improvements are made and spent annually through the standard budget process. n_ CrfYOFALLFN City afAllea Parka A Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 51 GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS - These bonds are issued by the city following an election in which the voters authorize their issuance for specific stated purposes, as well as the necessary tax increases to support them. These bonds pledge the property or ad valorem taxing power of the city. CERTIFICATES OF OBLIGATION- These certificates havebasicallythe same effect as general obligation bonds except they do not require an election to authorize them. An election can be petitioned by five percent of the registered voters of the city. These certificates are issued on the authorization of the City Council. Repayment is based on the property taxing power of the city, utility system revenues, or a combination of the two. USER FEES - This method of financing requires the eventual user of each park to pay a fee for the use of each facility. Fees to be charged users can be established to pay for debt service, maintenance, and operation of the park system. PRIVATE OR CORPORATE DONATIONS - Donations from foundations, corporations, and/or private individuals are often used to acquire and develop parks. The city should constantly identify and pursue opportunities to receive such funding for parks. One avenue for receiving donations is through the use of the Texas Parks & Recreation Foundation. This foundation has been developed to help all communities in the State of Texas to maximize the benefits of donations of land, property, and money. City of illen Parks & Open Space Master Plan 20/0-2020 Page 52 X. SUMMARY The City of Allen owns a total of 1,086.2 total park acres and 726.3 of those acres are developed. When compared to Allen's existing population of 85,288 residents, the resultant level of service of developed park land is 8.5 acres per 1,000 residents. This Parks and Open Space Master Plan provides a total of thirteen different projects throughout the next 10 years. The City of Allen should follow all the projects in the implementation schedule over the next ten years in order to keep up with the growing population. If the fust thirteen projects are completed in the ten year time period then the City of Allen will increase its total park acreage from 1,086.2 to approximately 1,267.9. After developing portions of these properties, it is very likely that the developed park acres will increase from 726.3 to 851.3. The additional 125 developed acres will result in a new level of service of 8.9 acres per 1,000 residents in the year 2020. This plan is to be utilized as a flexible tool which should be reviewed annually and updated every five years with input from citizens -at -large, city boards and commission members, city staff and City Council to continue to reflect the unique recreational needs of the area. The city should take advantage of any unforseen 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 and recommendations of this plan. With the proposed improvements to the park system that are outlined in this plan will come additional maintenance and operational needs in order to utilize, manage and care for both the new facilities and those that exist today. The proposed improvements contained in this plan will enhance the quality of life in the region and help ensure that the City of Allen is able to keep pace with the growing recreational needs of its citizens. The resulting benefits of this plan include: increased quality of life, tourism potential, economic value, increasing property values and pride in the residents of the area. City of Allen Parka & Open Space Master Plan 2010-2020 Page 53 APPENDIX I PARK PHOTOGRAPHS Senior Recreation Center Station Park Park Lakes Park Ridge Park at Lost Creek ■ Park Crossing Park Crossing Park Park Course Square Greenbelt Oaks Golf Bend Park Meadows Park Meadows Park Spring Nature Preserve Edge at Allen Station Property Park East Park West Ford Park North ■ ■ Park ■ ■ Park Heights ■ ■ Change) Park Ballfields Park (Future Name Play Area Park Park Garden Park Creek Park Foundation website) Watters Branch Property Farm (Image -Allen Parks Crossing Park r. �. „arm u �� _. � _= �. t .., ■ ■ Park Park East Park West ■ ■ ■ ■ JOISO azz ■ ■ Councilman-Ilmsaker) ■ Natatorium (Image by Rolling Hills Park Lakes Park Meadow Greenbelt Meadow Park Ridge Park Park Park at the Woods Park Creeks Park Park Park ■ ■ ■ ■ Branch Property Crossing Park Property ■ ■ ■ APPENDIX II CITIZEN SURVEY RESULTS* * Final citizen survey results may slightly vary from the results in the master plan due to additional responses after the deadline. City of Allen Parks & Recreation Survey Form 1. How would you rate the existing parks and recreational facilities in Allen? Facilities include both indoor and outdoor spaces such as Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium, Celebration Park, Joe Farmer Recreation Center, Ford Park, Trail at The Woods, etc. (Please indicate by checking one of the following.) Response Response Percent Count Excellent 43.0% 667 Good [ 47.8% 742 Fair 0 8.1% 125 Poor 0 0.8% 12 Don't Know 0.4% 6 answered question 1,552 skipped question 15 1 of 10 2. How would you rate the level of maintenance of parks and recreational facilities in Allen? Facilities include both indoor and outdoor spaces such as the Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium, Allen Station Park, Joe Farmer Recreation Center, Celebration Park, DaySpring Nature Preserve, etc. (Please indicate by checking one of the following.) Excellent Response Percent Good 41.1% 637 Fair Q Poor Q Don't Know 0 Response Response Percent Count 41.1% 637 49.8% 777 71/ 110 09% 14 1 answered question 1,548 skipped question 19 3. Can you reasonably and safely walk to a city park in Allen from your home? Yes No 2of10 Response Response Percent Count 70.0% 1,084 300% 465 answered question 1,549 skipped question 18 4. Are additional parks and recreational facilities needed in Allen? Response Response Percent count Yes 86.2% 1,323 No 13.8% 211 answered question 1,534 skipped question 33 5. In what area of Allen do you reside? (In reference to the map below) Response Response Percent count NW (northwest) 0 28.5% 442 NE (northeast) 34.4% 533 SW (southwest) O 77% 120 SE (southeast) 0 294% 456 answered question 1,551 skipped question 16 3 of 10 6. Please indicate your age according to the following age ranges: Response Response answered question 1,551 skipped question 18 4 o 10 Percent Count Under 18 0 0.9% 14 18-24 0 0.6% 10 25-34 O 15.2% 235 35-44 54.8% 858 45 -54 0 23.2% 360'.. 55 - 64 E] 41% 64 65 and over Q 12% 18 answered question 1,551 skipped question 18 4 o 10 7. What additional recreational amenities would you like to have in Allen's parks? Please rank by preference your first five choices (#1 being the highest priority and #5 being the lowest priority). (PLEASE CHOOSE ONLY FIVE.) Highest 2nd 3rd 4th 5th Rating Response Priority Priority Priority Priority Priority Average Count Adult Softball Fields 35.8% 12.8% 16.5% 10.1% 24.8% (39) (14) (18) (11) (27) 2 75 109 Lacrosse Fields 45.6% 14.9% g6%(11) 10.5% 19.3% 243 114 (52) (17) (12) (22) Band Stand/Amphitheater 7.5%(10) 16.5% 17.3% 25.6% 33.1% 3.60 133 (22) (23) (34) (44) Multi -Use Paved Trails 35.2% 17.8% 17.6% 16.6% 12.7% (166) (84) (83) (78) (60) 2 54 471 26.8% 31.4/0 24.7% 12.4/ Baseball Fields 4.6%(9) 2.37 194 (52) (61) (48) (24) Nature Areas 15.4/ 23.5% 21.1% 21.1% 19.0% (51) (78) (70) (70) (63) 3.05 332 Basketball Courts 17.8% 26.3% 25.3% 17.4% 13.2% (50) (74) (71) (49) (37) 2 82 281 18.5% 27.0% 20.8% 20.0% 13.7% Nature Trails 2.83 481 (89) (130) (100) (96) (66) Botanical/Flower Garden 8.9%(21) 17.0% 23.0% 25.5% 25.5% 3.42 235 (40) (54) (60) (60) Picnic Shelters/Pavilions 5.3%(11) 17.0% 25.7% 28.6% 23.3% 3.48 206 (35) (53) (59) (48) Camping /Day Camps 11.2% 13.0% 23.1% 23.7% 29.0% 3.46 169 (19) (22) (39) (40) (49) Playgrounds 13.8% 19.5% 19.5% 23.1% 24.1% (27) (38) (38) (45) (47) 3.24 195 Community Gardens 6.6%(9) 13.1% 20.4% 32.8% 27.0% 3.61 137 (18) (28) (45) (37) Shade at Playgrounds 8 Other 25.2% 18.9% 19.3% 18.7% 18.0% Areas (116) (87) (89) (86) (83) 2.85 461 Cricket Fields 36.4%(8) 9.1%(2) 13.6%(3) 18.2%(4) 22.7%(5) 2.82 22 5 of 10 Sand Volleyball Courts 12.5% 17.5% 18.1% 26.9% 25.0% (20) (28) (29) (43) (40) 3.34 160 Disc Golf Course 4.2%(4) 13.7% 23.2% 27.4% 31.6% (13) (22) (26) (30) 3.68 95 Skate Park 18.2%(6) 24.2%(8) 9.1%(3) 30.3% 182%(6) 3.06 33 (10) Dog Park 17.1% 15.6% 21.0% 23.4% 22.9% (35) (32) (43) (48) (47) 3.20 205 37,6% 27.1% 15.7% 13.1% Soccer Fields 6.6%(15) 2.24 229 (86) (62) (36) (30) Fishing Piers/Docks 12.1% 15.6% 26.6% 19.1% 28.8% (21) (27) (46) (33) (48) 3.32 173 Sports Practice Fields 21.1% 34.8% 18.3% 14.1% 11.7% (97) (160) (84) (65) (f4) 2.61 460 Football Fields 55.0% 18.9% 12.7% 8.1% (25) 5.2%(16) 1.90 307 (169) (58) (39) Sprayground/Small Water Park 12'0% 22.0% 26.0% 23.3% 16.7% (18) (33) (39) (35) (25) 3.11 150 Horseshoe/Washer Courts 7.4%(2) 7.4%(2) 7.4%(2) u'4% 33.3%(g) 3.89 27 (12) Indoor Swimming Pools 20.9% 19.1% 13.9% 28.7% 17.4% (24) (22) (16) (33) (20) 3.03 115 Outdoor Swimming Pools 25.4% 22.7% 17A% 14.4% 20.4% 2 82 181 (46) (41) (31) (26) (37) Indoor Recreation Centers 17.8% 222% 23.6% 16.9% 19.6% (40) (50) (53) (38) (44) 2.98 225 Tennis Centers 21.7% 18.5% 30.4% 15.8% 13.6% (40) (34) (56) (29) (25) 2.81 184 Kayak/Canoe Rentals 4.2%(6) 14.0% 18.2% 25.2% 38.5% 3.80 143 (20) (26) (36) (55) Water Features (creeks, small 14.5% 27.1% 20.1% 28.5% lakes, etc.) 9.8%(21) (31) (58) (43) (61) 3.43 214 Lawn Areas for General play 10.3% 13.3% 17.4% 27.7% 31.3% (20) (26) (34) (54) (61) 3.56 195 Youth Softball Fields 23.4% 172% 20.3% 18.8% 20.3% (is) TI 1) (13) (12) (13) 295 64 6 of 10 Other 45.2% 16.7% 23.8% (38) (14) (20) 8.3%(7) 6.0%(5) 2.46 84 Please specify other desired facility 201 answered question 1,443 skipped question 124 8. The following series of statements are intended to identify your opinions concerning parks and recreation. Please respond by checking the most appropriate answer: Strongly Strongly Response Agree Disagree Agree Disagree Count More pocket or ornamental parks are needed. (2500 sq. ft. to 1 acre 10.9%(147) 38.3%(514) 43.7%(587) 7.1% (95) 1,343 in size) More neighborhood parks are needed. (10 acres in size) 22.7%(308) 47.0% (638) 27.7%(376) 2.6%(35) 1,357 More community parks are needed. (40 to 150 acres in size) 25.2%(334) 45.4% (600) 26.7%(353) 2.7%(36) 1,323 Existing parks in Allen should be upgraded and/or improved to 29.3%(397) 46.0%(624) 22.8%(310) 1.9%(26) 1,357 include additional facilities. Residential neighborhoods, schools and parks should be connected with linear parks such as trails along 45.6%(625) 41.2%(565) 11.0%(151) 2.3%(31) 1,372 creeks and other corridors. Parks 8 recreation facilities are well worth the cost to taxpayers. 51.0%(706) 44.1%(610) 4.0%(56) 0.8%(11) 1,383 The City of Allen provides most citizen with information regarding lo local parks and recreational 26.5%(366) 55.5%(765) 15.2%(209) 2.8%(39) 1,379 opportunities. answered question 1,412 skipped question 155 7 of 10 9. The following statement is intended to identify your opinion concerning the role of parks and recreation. Please respond by selecting the most appropriate answer: Extremely Less Response Important Important Important Don't Know p Count The role of parks, recreation and open space in Allen today is: 64.9%(915) 33.9%(477) 7.0% (14) 0,2%( 1,409 answered question 1,409 skipped question 156 10. The most important consideration regarding future parks in Allen is: (PLEASE CHECK YOUR HIGHEST PRIORITY OF THE FOLLOWING - CHOOSE ONLY ONE) Quality of facilities in in �� and construction Number of facilities 0 Maintenance of facilities after construction Preservation of natural areas Other (please specify) Q Sof 10 Response Response Percent Count 39.4% 554 10.6% 149 25.0% 351 19.6% 276 5.3% 75 answered question 1,405 skipped question 162 11. How do you gain information on Parks and Recreation programs and events? Mailings (STUFF Recreation Guide) Banners in Park 0 Newspaper Articles Insert in Water Bills Website Email 0 Other (please specify) Q Response Response Percent Count 51.2% 720 14.7% 207 13.5% 190 20.0% 281 51.7% 727 290% 408 5.3°% 75 answered question 1,407 skipped question 160 12. The acquisition of parkland and the development & maintenance of park facilities can be expensive. What funding sources would you support to fund park land acquisition, development, and maintenance of park facilities? PLEASE RANK YOUR TOP THREE PRIORITIES - #1 FIRST CHOICE; #2 SECOND CHOICE; #3 THIRD CHOICE -CHOOSE ONLY THREE) 1st Choice 2nd Choice 3rd Choice Rating Response Average Count Park User Fees 24.0%(118) 25.1%(123) 50.9%(250) 227 491 Donations $0,3%(476) 28.9%(273) 20.8%(197) 1.71 946 Property tax 19.9%(128) 33.3%(214) 46.8% (301) 2.27 643 Sales tax 22.5%(185) 42.5%(349) 35.0%(288) 2.13 822 Bond program 43.1%(452) 34.2%(359) 22.7%(238) 1.80 1,049 Other (please specify) 62 answered question 1,366 skipped question 201 9 of 10 13. Do you favor public I private partnerships to enhance and facilitate development and operations (e.g. capital projects, programs, land acquisition, special events, etc.) of the Parks & Recreation system? Response Response Percent Count Yes I 87.9% 1,166 No 12.1% 161 answered question 1,327 skipped question 240 10 of 10