R-1853-7-00RESOLUTION NO. 1853-7-00 (R)
' A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALLEN, TEXAS,
ADOPTING THE PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN 2000-
2010, ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT "A"; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Board has reviewed the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan
and recommends that the City Council adopt the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Allen has detemuned that the adoption of the Parks, Recreation,
and Open Space Master Plan 2000-2010 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 City Council of the City of Allen, Texas, adopt the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space
Master Plan 2000-2010, attached hereto as Exhibit "A."
SECTION 2. This Resolution shall become effective immediately from and after its passage.
DULY PASSED AND APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALLEN, COLLIN
COUNTY, TEXAS, ON THIS THE 6th DAY OF JOLY , 2000.
APPROVED:
Stephen Terrell, MAYOR
ATTEST:
Jjoy Mo son, CMC/AAE, CITY SECRETARY
1•
"To establish a park and recreation system for our citizens that provides them
with a source of pleasure, promotes economic development, minimizes demands
on valuable City resources and instills pride in those who make it happen."
Parks, Recreation, and Open
Space Master Plan
2000-2010
Prepared By:
City of Allen Parka and Recreation Department
With assistance by:
MHS Planning and Design
Listof Tables...........................................................................
3
Listof Plates...........................................................................
4
KeyFactors.............................................................................
5
I. Introduction...................................................................
6
Purpose
Community Profile and History
II. Background for the Plan ...................................................
9
Population
City of Allen
' Population Growth Projections
Employment
Parks and Recreation Department
1998 Plan Accomplishments
M. Goals and Implementation Strategies ..................................... 14
IV. Plan Development Process ................................................. 17
Planning Efforts
Today's Plan — An Evolved Process
Citizen Survey
1
Parks and Recreation Board
Capital Improvement Program
City Council Involvement
Allen Community Development Corporation
V. Standards and Guidelines ................................................... 20
Land Acquisition Policy
NRPA Guidelines
Parks and Open Spaces System
Pocket Parks
Neighborhood Parks
Community Parks
Citywide Parks
Greenbelt and Linkage Parks
Special -use Parks
VI. Inventory of Areas and Facilities .......................................... 29
Pocket Parks
Neighborhood Parks
Community Parks
Citywide Parks
Greenbelt and Linkage Parks
Special -use Parks
Natural Open Space
External Influences
VII. Needs Assessment............................................................ 44
Active Recreation/Athletics
Hike/Bike Trails
Greenbelts, Linkage Parks, and Natural Open Space
Emerging Trend
Land Acquisition Needs
VIII. Plan Implementation and Prioritization Needs ............................... 53
Recreation Priorities
Implementation Program
Table 1 - Population Projections.........................................................
11
Table 2 - Parkland Requirements........................................................
22
Table 3 - Facility Development Standards .............................................
23
Table 4 - Parks and Recreation Facilities..............................................
40
Table 5 - Supply and Demand...........................................................
45
Table 6 - City Sponsored Athletic Programs..........................................
46
Table 7 - Most Frequently Used Community Facilities ..............................
47
Table8 - Most Frequently Used Parks.................................................
48
Table 9 - Parkland Acquisition Needs..................................................
52
Table 10 - Implementation Program .....................................................
54
3
Plate 1-Vacinity Map......................................................................8
Plate 2 - Existing Parks and Recreation Facilities ..................................... 42
Plate 3 - Neighborhood Park Service Areas ........................................... 43
Plant 4 - Parks and Open Spaces Plan ................................................... 51
♦ Allen is a very young community that places a high emphasis on
youth athletics. Current demand for soccer, for example, is 3.3 times
the national average and current demand for baseball is 2 times the
national average.
This plan calls for a total of 2,583 acres of parkland and open space,
which is slightly above the NRPA recommended inventory of lands
for a build -out population 170,000 persons. The division of lands into
passive and active use, however is weighted heavily on passive
recreation which will place a burden on providing athletic facilities
until demographics more closely reflect those nationally.
♦ Allen continues to grow exponentially with a doubling of the
population expected during the next decade. Acquisition of parkland,
especially large sites, should continue to be a high priority before
development preclude their acquisition.
♦ Greenbelts are the hub of the parks and open space system. Greater
emphasis should be placed on acquiring a setback between the
ultimate floodplain and development to allow for greater protection of
the resource and increase the recreational value of these lands.
♦ Neighborhood parks are greatly enhances by homeowner association
owned amenity centers. This plan, for the first time, takes into
consideration the recreational benefit of such property. Amenity
centers will ultimately add approximately 40 acres to the inventory of
recreational lands in Allen.
Purpose
The purpose of this plan is to guide City decisions concerning the parkland acquisition,
park facilities development and program design. The following pages contain goals and
objectives for the City's park and open space system, a methodology used to develop the
plan, an inventory of existing facilities and land, an analysis of local needs, a fist of parks,
and open space priorities, and an implementation program to meet the established goals
and objectives of the community.
Community Profile and History
Allen, Texas is located in Collin County, which is in north central Texas. It is
approximately 20 miles north of Interstate 635 and U.S. 75. Allen is completely
surrounded by incorporated cities. To the north lies the city of McKinney, to the south,
the cities of Parker and Plano; to the east, the Town of Lucas; and to the west, the city of
Plano.
Important transportation routes serving the city include U.S. 75, which bisects the city in
a north/south direction in the center of the city and provides an important link to adjacent
cities. F.M. 2170 runs in an east/west direction in the center of the city. S.H. 5, which
was the main north/south thoroughfare prior to the construction of U.S. 75, lies roughly
parallel to U.S. 75.
Prior to the arrival of European and American immigrants into the Allen area, Caddo and
Comanche Indian tribes inhabited the region. The Wichita confederacy of the Caddo tribe
occupied much of the Red River and the upper Trinity River Valleys. Caddo Indians were
primarily agricultural and supplemented their livelihoods with hunting and fishing. They
had a well-developed sign language, and highly cultivated cultural and political contacts.
The Comanches were a fierce nomadic people who rode from the plains into the area, and
were feared by the Caddo and early settlers.
Fertile land and plentiful water drew white settlers to this area from as early as the 1840s.
This part of Collin County was well populated by 1876 when the Houston and Texas
Central Railroad built a water supply stop on Cottonwood Creek, now in Allen Station
Park. The railroad stop and newly created town lots established a center for commerce for
local farmers and their families and provided better equipment and broader markets for
agriculture production. The surrounding open prairie soon was developed into small
family farms.
The Houston and Texas Central Railroad filed documents to create the town of Allen
from the James L. Reed survey in 1876. The village was named after Ebanezer Allen, a
former Republic and State Attorney General and founder of the Houston and Texas
Central Railroad. A dry goods store, barbershop, and school soon opened in the rapidly
growing town. Sam Bass reportedly led an outlaw gang that robbed the Allen depot on
February 22, 1878. This was probably the first successful train robbery in Texas.
By 1884 the town of Allen had three churches, a flourmill and a population of 350. In
1908 the Texas Traction Company built an electric railroad through town, calling it the
interurban. The citizenry numbered 350 by 1915. Allen was incorporated in 1953 with
400 residents. Electric railroad service ended in 1946, but railway freight service and
continued strong economic growth in the Dallas -Fort Worth area helped the town's
population grow to include 19,000 residents by 1990.
Plate 1: Vicinity Map
PL,ANO
0 q PL.ANO
$ J
5A 190
s
PPCtWD5ON
norroxar DALLAS
0
Population
The Dallas -Fort Worth area, of which Allen is a part, is recognized throughout the
nation as one of the major growth areas of the United States. Between 1990 and 1997,
the area grew 32.5 percent, among the leaders in areas of comparable size. Between
1997 and 2000, the City grew from 32,000 to 45,000 representing a 40percent growth
in the population. More importantly, the Dallas -Fort Worth area is known for its role
as a center for the high-tech industries of the future, its concentration of service and
financial industries, and headquarters for international and national companies.
Allen is located in the fast growing corridor north of Dallas along U.S. 75. Extending
north from LH. 635, the corridor generally consists of Richardson, Plano, Allen,
McKinney, and Frisco, which lie between the extension of the Dallas Tollway and
U.S. 75, north to beyond S.H. 121 (see Plate 1). The Electronic Data Systems
Corporation and I C. Penney Corporation are located on the west -side of this
corridor along the Dallas Tollway. Telecommunications and related high technology
companies were constructed along U.S. 75 during the 1980s and 1990s, and the wave
of development continues. Collin County's population grew from 264,036 in 1990 to
397,100 in 1997, which constitutes an average annual growth rate of 7.47 percent.
Allen grew at an even faster rate of 10.54percent.
City of Allen
Over the 1970-1980 decade, Allen experienced the fast stages of its growth, from
1,940 to 8,314 persons — an increase of over 300 percent. Yet, this was only the
beginning. In the 1980's, Allen's population increased from 8,314 to 19,315. This
growth took place despite the severe recession that the Texas economy experienced
during the 1980s. Allen's 2000 population is estimated by City staff to be 45,000,
representing a 133 percent population growth in the 1990s (City of Allen
Demographics, 1999 and the 1997 Citizen Survey, see Table 1).
Data on population characteristics are available both from the 1990 U.S. Census and
the 1997 Citizens' Survey. While the two sources represent different data, together
they provide valuable information on Allen and its residents. Based on this data, the
residents of Allen can be characterized as follows:
1. Allen is populated predominantly by young, white, high income earning,
family households.
♦ A high percent of the heads of household are between the ages of 25
and 44, which equals 70.7 percent (1997 Citizen Survey)
♦ 92.7 percent of the population is white, 1.8 percent is black, 2.3
percent is Hispanic, 2.1 percent is Asian/Pacific Island (1997 Citizen
Survey)
♦ 56 percent of the households earned $50,000 or over in 1997, with a
median household income of $71,078, well above the state average of
$36,161. Only 48 percent in of households earned $50,000 or more in
1990 (1990 Census)
2. Most persons in Allen are relatively new residents.
♦ 37.9 percent had lived in Allen three years or less and 56.1 percent had
lived in Allen five years or less (1997 Citizen Survey)
27 percent had lived in Allen ten years or more (1997 Citizen Survey)
3. Most residents of Allen have the potential to move up economically in the
future, based upon the combination of youth, good earnings and
education, which are indicators of potential upward mobility.
♦ 42.1 percent of the male heads of household and 34 percent of the
female heads of household are college graduates. An additional 26.8
percent of the male heads of household and 16.3 percent of the female
heads of household have completed postgraduate work or have post
graduate degrees (1997 Citizen Survey)
Median home price is $146,450, based on sales in 1997 of new and
pre -owned homes (MIS and Builder provided)
4. The population of Allen contains both one and two wage earner families.
♦ 38.2 percent have one wage earner; 54.6 percent of the households
have two wage earners (1997 Citizen Survey)
♦ The per capita income of residents in Allen in the 3-5 mile zone from
the center of town is 12 percentage points higher than the national
average (Natatorium Feasibility Study)
10
While the majority of residents can be described as above, that is not to say there are not
other groups (although small in number) with special needs. These include the aging (65
and over), 2.3 percent in 1997; minorities, 7.3 percent in 1997 and those eaming below
the poverty level, 3.0 percent 1997 (est.).
Population Growth Projections
The question of the timing of growth is difficult to predict. Timing is influenced by a
myriad of factors, which are difficult, if not impossible to accurately predict. Chief
among these factors are national and regional economics, availability of money, interest
rates, and the decision of property owners to develop their lands.
The Allen Planning Department has made projections for population for the City of
Allen. A moderate but steady growth is expected throughout the first decade of the
twenty-first century. Projections indicate that the population will increase by at lease
another 42,000 by 2010. The population at build -out is estimated to be 120,000. These
projections could change if a major corporate relocation occurs or if a serious national
emergency takes place.
POPULATION PROJECTIONS
City of Allen, Texas
1998 Est.
2000 Est.
2005 Est.
2010 Est.
35,700
45,000
67,000
86,000
Sours: City of Allen Demographics -1999 — Planning Department, City of Allen
These projections appear reasonable for planning purposes. They also have the advantage
of being a point of coordination with regional numbers, which will be used in
transportation planning. Therefore, the City can use them for short-range planning;
recognizing that continued monitoring and updating are needed.
Employment
The number of jobs located in Allen has increased markedly since 1990 with the addition
of eight major industries, FSI International (400), Experian Information Solutions (1000),
Photronics (170), Quest Medical (270), Electronic Data systems (300), Ball (100),
Ericsson (150), and Sunbelt (65). This is in addition to existing industries RCLJLyrick
(640) Digital Techniques (640), and All Spec (22). The Texas Workforce Commission
(TWC) estimates that of the 15,638 work force that live in Allen, 15,301 (97.8 percent)
people were employed full time in November 1997 and 337 (2.2 percent) were
unemployed. This unemployment rate compares favorably to the Texas estimate of 4.9
percent and to the national average of 4.3 percent for November 1997. This finding is
indicative of projected economic stability. The TWC measures the work force that lives
11
in Allen but not necessarily works in Allen. For example, this figure includes those who
live here but may work elsewhere and does not include those who work here but may live
elsewhere.
The present commercial and industrial growth started during the years 1978 to 1980
period. Since 1986, commercial/industrial development has averaged seven permits per
year, with an average annual value of $8,719,497. This activity slowed considerably
during the early 1990s when the recession took its toll; however, a significant increase
began in 1993. An average of 37 finish -out permits was issued annually during the last
decade, with an annual value of $2,235,992. The frequency of finish -out permits was
higher in the last half of the 1980s when the previously constructed commercial/industrial
space began to absorb tenants. As the population continues to grow, the need for
additional parks and open space will increase.
Parks and Recreation Department
The Parks and Recreation Department face malty challenges as the City of Allen continues
its rapid growth. Demand for some activities already exceeds the City's ability to provide
them. The City must be prepared to identify and acquire parklands specially large sites
for wmmuoity and special parks—before development precludes their acquisition.
The citizen survey of 1995 and reconfirmed in 1997 has established the need for a balanced
system of neighborhood parks, community parks, citywide parks, natural open space and
greenbelts. To meet citizen expectations, the city must concentrate on acquiring land that
accommodates the requirements of the various park classifications. Developing a parks and
recreation system that meets the needs of Allen citizens, that is sensitive to Allen's
environment, and places good stewardship on tax money is the goal of this plan. In order to
develop a comprehensive system of parks and open space, this plan must concentrate on the
needs of neighborhoods, community facilities and a greenbelt park system.
The Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan establishes an approach to developing the
parks and recreation system. This plan looks at future recreation needs of the citizens of
Allen, and in a proactive approach, establishes locations for parks throughout the city. The
result of this plan is a Parks and Open Space Master Plan map that provides guidance and
specific recommendations for park development for Allen through the year 2010.
1998 Plan Accomplishments
The 1998 Plan outlines specific goals for which the City should follow in order to maintain
quality facilities during a time of exponential population growth. The primary
accomplishments since the 1997 plan was adopted are:
♦ Acquisition of 13 park sites totaling 304.8 acres of land. These acquisitions have
increased the total land/1000 resident ratio from 12.7 acres11000 to 16.8
acres/1000 residents.
♦ Eight parks have been developed adding 90 acres of developed parks and
numerous recreational opportunities.
♦ Six additional parks have been designed that will bid in July 2000 representing
12
143.6 acres of parkland.
The Park Dedication Ordinance has been updated to better reflect actual cost of
acquiring and constructing parkland. The Ordinance increased the amount of
land dedicated from one acre per 145 units to one acre per 100 units, and
increases the park fees from $125 per unit to $640 per unit.
A joint use agreement with Allen Independent School District allows for the
joint development of the Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium and an Allen LSD
financial contribution of $4,300,000.
13
The following Goals and Implementation Strategies are established to direct the park and
open space network for Allen.
General Goal: Mission Statement: Establish a parks and recreation system
for our citizens that provides them with a source of pleasure, promotes
economic development, minimizes demands on valuable City resources and
instills pride in those who make it happen.
♦ Specific Goal — Open Space: Plan for public and private natural open space
in the development of Allen.
US: Provide strict guidelines for floodplain/open space development and
emphasize recreational trail use.
YS: Complete acquisition of floodplain/open space plan in accordance with
the Linear Greenbelt Park Study.
US: Preserve major wooded areas, both within and outside of floodplains.
US: Assess all environmental impact in planning development and
maintenance of parkland.
US: Support the development of a Setback Ordinance along the City's creek
corridors that will reduce the likelihood of erosion damaging public or
private property and add to the recreation value of greenbelts.
14
Specific Goal — Parks & Recreation: Provide for development of a parks
system with a full range of facilities and programs for residents.
///S: Evaluate and proceed with parkland acquisition and development
program.
I/S: Continually update data to compute demand for park facilities and
programs.
US: Provide organized community recreation for youths, adults and senior
citizens.
US: Provide for development of acquired parklands to meet demand.
US: Sponsor initiatives to provide for families that cannot afford to pay for
recreational services.
US: Provide varied opportunities for active and passive recreation.
♦ Spic Goal — Operations/Maintenance: Provide a high level of park
maintenance of parklands and facilities.
US: Include operation and maintenance costs in all consideration of
facilities.
US: Provide adequate staff, equipment and budget for maintenance.
US: Follow established Parks and Recreation Board standards for park
maintenance with consideration of park type and needs of the community.
YS: Continue landscaping and beautification of parks and medians.
US: Support the development of an erosion control ordinance that will add
protection of water bodies from siltation.
♦ Specific Goal — Safety/Security: Provide safety and security in parks.
US: Use safety and security standards in the design of parks and open space
areas.
US: Develop a program for park security and risk management in
coordination with other City departments.
♦ Specific Goal - Trails: Provide for recreational hike and bike paths
integrated with the transportation and parks system with particular attention
to natural corridors and neighborhood connections.
15
Fe
US: Assist the Planning Department in updating trail planning documents to
ensure adequate room for good trail design.
YS: Support the Planning Department efforts to establish an on -street bicycle
transportation system that integrates with the off-street recreational trail
system.
I� 16
is
Planning Efforts
The original Comprehensive Plan for Allen was prepared in 1970. A major update was
prepared in 1977-78, with a partial update in 1981. In 1984, City Council adopted
Resolution No.508-5-84, which established City Standards for parkland acquisition. A
new comprehensive plan was enacted in 1985, updated in 1992 and the current
Comprehensive Plan was adopted in 1998. Lastly this update was approved by Ordinance
in July 2000.
Another significant planning effort that helped shape the future park system is the Linear
Greenbelt Park Study (Halff Associates, 1986). This study has been instrumental in
establishing guidelines for preserving open space by established planning and
development guidelines along Allen's creek corridors and a continuous trail system
linking recreation facilities in Allen with those in McKinney and Plano.
The City is currently simultaneously developing two trail plans. The Planning Department
is coordinating an on -street bicycle transportation plan. This plan is evaluating existing
and proposed roadways to develop a plan for on -street bicycle transportation. At the same
time, the Parks and Recreation Department is preparing a recreational trail plan that
covers all off street trails. The two plans will mesh together into a network of
transportation and recreational trails. These plans will be completed by summer's end
2000.
Today's Plan — An Evolved Process
Stakeholder involvement is a key tool used in the planning process to determine needs
and desires of the community. While it is encouraged to solicit stakeholder involvement
17
through all planning efforts, this plan demonstrates the most comprehensive approach to
defining the direction in which citizens intend to guide the development of the park
system. Park planners used various approaches to gaining an understanding of the desires
of the community. Among these methods are:
Citizen Survey
A citizen survey was conducted in 1995 to gauge community perception of recreational
desires. In 1997 the Parks and Recreation Department along with the Department of
Community Development conducted a second citywide survey which reconfirmed the
findings of the 1995 survey. The 1998 Comprehensive Plan incorporated the findings of
this survey. Additionally, these findings are incorporated into the 2000 Parks, Recreation
and Open Space Master Plan. The survey continues to be used by the Parks and
Recreation Board as baseline data. Because of the continued relevance of these surveys, a
new survey was not conducted for the update of this plan.
Park and Recreation Board
The Parks and Recreation Board established by Ordinance 306 on July 3, 1980, is the
Parks and Recreation Department's primary citizen Board. Board members are charged
with assisting the Department and City Council in developing leisure opportunities for the
community. The Board evaluated the results of the 1997 survey in establishing the Goals
and Implementation Strategies and in developing a Needs Assessment. The Needs
Assessment prepared by the Parks & Recreation Board were then forwarded to and
reviewed by the 197 member Capital Improvement Program Committee appointed by the
City Council. The Parks and Recreation Board also is strategically involved in monitoring
the Capital Improvement Program and seeing that the goals of City Council and the
citizens at large are considered during park planning efforts.
Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
A 197 -member board was appointed by the Allen City Council to develop a Capital
Improvement Program. The committee reviewed the 1998 Comprehensive Plan and the
Needs Assessment discussed above in determining a final project list to be carried to the
City Council and ultimately to the voters. The committee met 7 times during the months
of January through March. The results of the committee were a recommendation of
$22,000,000 in Park development projects, all of which are identified later in this
document. The project list went on to City Council where public hearings were held prior
to their adoption as the CII' for FY99-FY04.
City Council Involvement
Following public hearings, the City Council approved a $55,000,000 Bond proposal of
which $22,000,000 is dedicated to Parks and Recreation Development. The voters
approved the bond program with overwhelming, 74 percent, support for the park bond.
The resulting Capital Improvement program will be funded by the sale of general
obligation bonds in FY 1999-2004. Voters authorized the issuance of these bonds in May
1999.
In
is
Allen Community Development Corporation (ACDC)
The ACDC Board is a nonprofit 4B corporation approved by the voters on May 4, 1996
and instituted by City Council on June 20, 1996. ACDC has funded numerous park
projects. In September 1999, the Corporation adopted a 5 -year plan that identifies 14 park
projects, costing more than $10,881,500. These projects are in addition to the Capital
Improvement Program list described above. The goal of the ACDC is to fund projects that
the City can not or will not traditionally fund. The ACDC made a planning decision to
use the findings of the CIP process to further leisure opportunities in Allen.
M
The National Parks and Recreation Association (NRPA) maintains the most widely
accepted guideline and standards for park development as published in the 1990 edition of
Recreation, Parks and Open Space Standards and Guidelines. These standards should,
however, be used as a guide and not as a rule. They represent minimum not maximum goals
to be achieved. Age of the population, recreational trends, and local interests have varying
degrees of influence on standards.
The age of the population is key in establishing park standards for Allen. Currently almost
half of the population of the city is between twenty-five and forty-four years old (44.3
percent, 1990 Census data). This age bracket represents the prime child rearing years as is
exemplified by the fact the 36.7 percent (1990 Census data) of the current local population
is less than seventeen years old. These age bracket statistics explain the exceptionally high
per capita participation in youth soccer, youth baseball, and youth softball, therefore the
"standards" dilemma.
In the short term — 2000-2010 — as Allen continues to grow and attract young families, the
current high demand for youth sports facilities will be difficult to address. Once the
population of the City begins to age, the exceptionally high demand for youth sports
facilities will diminish. At that time, a more traditional set of park standards will apply to
the City. Both NRPA and City standards for public parkland are shown in Table 2.
Land Acquisition Policy
The Parks and Recreation Department operates under a Land Acquisition Policy that was
fomtally adopted by the City as Resolution 508-5-84(R). The policy identifies goals for the
overall system, defines standards for park types, outlines planning procedures for
20
Is
implementation, and describes methods for land acquisition. The policy provides direction
for the Parks and Recreation Department to follow. As part of this plan, the policy will be
reviewed and, where required, recommendations for changes to the policy suggested.
Based upon the City's adopted parkland acquisition policy, and assuming the city will have
an ultimate population of approximately 120,000 persons, a total of 1,190 acres of parkland
would be desirable for the park system. In addition, the City contains 1,000 acres of land in
the floodplain, of which the Park and Recreation Department consider approximately 50
percent undevelopable as active park amenities. The Parks, Recreation, and Open Space
Plan, 2000-2010 updates these numbers to better reflect existing conditions.
NRPA Standards
The National Recreation and Parks Association also recognizes the importance of using
national standards as an expression of minimum acceptable facilities and land requirements
for citizens of urban areas. NRPA standards should be used as a guide and should be
coupled with local conditions to determine the best provision of parks and recreation
resources.
Based upon NRPA's standards and the City's assumed ultimate population of 120,000
persons, a range of 1,350 to 2,460 acres of parks and open space would be desirable for the
parks system (see Table 2). The City's standard established by Resolution 508-5-84R falls
within the NRPA range as does the new standards established in this plan.
Y;I
PARKLAND REQUIREMENTS
BASED ON POLICY FOR LAND ACQUISITION AND NRPA STANDARDS
City of Allen, Texas
NRPAStandard
Citysusaa rd
Plan year
/1000
Buildout
/IOW
Buildout
2"
2000
Over/
Variance
FiumlityType
population
120,"
Population
120,W0
Stendsud
Acnial
(Under)
From
Population
Population
45,000
45,000
standard
Ramo
Population
Population
Pocks Parks
0
0
L5
1.5
15
Neighbod
1.25-25
150-300
2.15
259
85.5
124.4
38.9
1.4
putt
Community Parka
5.08.0
600-960
4.0
480
180
244
m
(81)
Mewpohtan
5.010.0
6004200
4.5
540
202.5
192
(10.5)
2
Ci 'de
Special-uu ParFs
VariableVariable
Variable
0
0
41.2
165.8
41.2
sUB'ITII'AL
11.25-0.5
13502460
10.65
1278
468
603.1
135.1
(34.9)
E RNFACI'ORS(MinsauaQ
Open Space-
+
IWD
180
Floodplain
Neighborhood
NA
NA
80
40
Amenity Centers
Private Open Space
NA
NA
255
125
SUBTOTAL
11.25-20.5
13502460
21.77
2613
21.06
948.1
MinusNon-
developabh:Ames
5WF
Wnuad
in paadplain(5W),
NA
NA
Phin
Plain
and Opm Spatt
1700pen
82 Op.
(17 0)
ywe
sp—
TOTAL
11.25-20.5
13502160
16.19
1943
17.24
776.1
ACREAGE
1
REQUO2EA
*NRPA standard includes natural open space in Community Parks and Metropolitan Parks.
** Assumes all future neighborhood parks are 15 acres in sin, see Table 9.
22
The NRPA also recommends standards for facilities. Similar to standards for land
acquisition, NRPA advises that these standards are to be used as a tool and that community
research be conducted to establish local standards. Table 3 evaluates NRPA facility
standards and establishes standards for Allen.
FACILITY DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
City of Allen, Texas
Existing
Facilities
NRPA Required
at Build -out
(120,000)
Allen's
Requirement
at Build -out
2005` m
67,130
Required
in 2010
85,700
Swimming Pool
I
7
4
2
3
Picnic Sites
59
350
350
181
231
Hiking/Nature
Trails
10.3 nu
14 mi
21 mi
11
14
Golf Course
0
3
1
0
1
Tennis (includes
AISD courts)
20
70
50
26
33
Multi -use
2
98
30
15
20
Softball/Baseball
(Youth)
15G
I P
14 G
42 P
25G
28 P
23 G
33 P
29G
43 P
Softball (Adult)
3
13
13
7
9
Football
2
7
5
3
3
Soccer
9 G
3 P
14 G
56P
30G
24 P
23 G
33 P
29G
43P
Basketball
7
9
9
4
6
Outdoor Theater
1
2
1
1
Recreation Center
1
5
5
3
3
Playgrounds
13
Sand Volleyball
0
8
4
5
Inline Hockey
1
3
2
2
Legend:
G = Game fields; P = Practice areas
'One playground should be located in each park.
23
Parks and Open Space System
The concept of the future parks system takes into consideration the stream valleys, the wood
lots, the present park system and future needs of the city as it grows to the west. The major
stream valleys—Rowlett Creek, Mustang Branch, Watters Creek and Cottonwood Creek
should be the frameworks of the parks and open space system. Where possible, major parks
should be clustered along the stream valleys and linked by trails using the greenbelt system.
East -west linkages should be provided to channel users to the major parks and greenbelts.
This plan recommends east -west linkages at Chappatrel and future Ridgeview (see Plate 4).
Pocket Parks: Until the early 1980's, small neighborhood parks that were 2 acres or less in
size were constructed in some of the neighborhoods (e.g., Hillside Playground and Walden
Park). The park plan now discourages the construction of these small sites due to
maintenance and efficiency reasons. The City realizes, however, that good quality of life
issues exists when small pocket parks are appropriately landscaped. Future planning efforts
will encourage undeveloped parcels to be retained by neighborhood associations and
landscaped in such a way to promote leisure activities.
Neighborhood Parks: Neighborhood parks are often referred to as the focal point of a
neighborhood. Neighborhood parks are a place where residents have the opportunity to
meet one another and fellowship. Neighborhood parks can strengthen a community, set
standards for maintenance and development, and are often the backbone of the park system.
It is planned for each neighborhood to have a park that provides both passive and active
recreation opportunities for the neighborhood. Special attention is placed on providing
services for preschool and elementary aged children. Examples of neighborhood parks are
Country Meadows, Watters Crossing, and Reed parks.
Each neighborhood park district (see Plate 3) is planned to have a neighborhood park.
Neighborhood parks should be located in an area that provides for easy access, preferably
adjacent to a school or greenbelt. These parks should not be located adjacent to major
thoroughfares or commercial areas. The neighborhood parks should serve the walk-in,
recreational needs of the adjacent residential area, i.e., the area within a one-half mile
radius, and should not when possible require residents to cross thoroughfares to access the
park. At full development, Allen should have 15 to 20 neighborhood parks, each 5 to 15
acres in size. The number will vary somewhat with development to the west and the number
of future residential neighborhoods.
Facilities expected in neighborhood parks are:
•
. Accessible play equipment meeting United States Consumer Product Safety
•
Commission standards for children under 5 and older than 5 years of age
•
Picnic areas with tables, cook grills and trash receptacles, shelters, trail system,
and drinking fountains
•
. Multipurpose courts for basketball and volleyball, or lighted tennis courts
•
. Level open play area for athletic team practice and "pickup" games
•
. Landscaping development for beautification and screening
•
Security lighting where applicable
•
•
24
•
Neighborhood parks should be designed to the following criteria:
• Neighborhood parks should be approximately 15 acres in size
• Have an appropriate mix of buffer, passive, and active space As a rule of thumb
this means no more than one-third of the site occupied by active recreational
uses; one-third should be a buffer area around the park, and one-third passive or
natural areas
• Facilities provided to serve mostly neighborhood needs
• Located adjacent to an elementary school or a greenbelt, if possible
• Children's play area, picnic tables, benches, and open lawn areas for informal/
practice play be designed to meet the needs of the neighborhood
• Not used for organized athletic activities, except as day -use practice areas
• Serve residential areas within a �h mile radius
Community Parks: A typical community park serves several neighborhoods and is located
within Di mile of the majority of its users. Community parks typically contain
neighborhood park amenities and specialized facilities such as athletic fields not normally
found in neighborhood parks. Community parks should provide active and passive uses.
Each might contain a swimming pool, a recreation center, several baseball/softball and
football/soccer fields, a bicycle path, tennis courts, multipurpose courts, picnic areas,
possibly a mining track, and picnicking and open space areas. An example of a regional
park is Ford Park.
The plan provides for five community parks. One community park should be located along
Rowlett Creek, one along Watters Creek, one in northeast Allen, and two existing parks,
Ford and Bethany Lakes. Each park should total 50 acres in size or larger, with no more
than 25 percent in the floodplain. Community parks are normally visited via car and should
also be located along major thoroughfares so that traffic mobility into neighborhoods is
minimized.
In addition to neighborhood park facilities, Community Parks normally contain the
following:
• Lighted competitive athletic facilities such as soccer, softball, tennis, baseball
and basketball
• Multipurpose trails for walking, jogging, exercise, and transportation
• Recreation center, swimming pools, or group meeting facilities
• Support facilities such as an internal road system, lighted parking areas, rest
rooms, concessions, and security lighting
• Landscaping development for beautification and screening
• Accommodating facilities for large special events
• Skate parks, roller hockey courts, basketball courts
Community parks should be designed to the following criteria:
• Serve residential areas within a 1'h to 2 mile radius
• Include 50 acres or more land with at least 75 percent of the park located on a
high, well -drained ground
25
• Located adjacent to a middle or senior high school or greenbelt, if possible
• Provide adequate onsite parking areas
• Have an appropriate mix of buffer, passive, and active space As a rule of thumb
this means no more than one-third of the site occupied by active recreational
uses; one-third should be a buffer area around the park, and one-third passive or
natural areas
Citywide Parks: Citywide parks usually serve the entire city and are normally 75 acres in
size or larger. Citywide parks should provide for the specific recreation needs of the
citywide population. Citywide Parks contain specialized attractions such as a nature areas,
lakes, historic areas, or botanical gardens. Citywide parks can also contain neighborhood
and community park amenities. Allen developed Bethany Lakes Park, its first citywide park,
in 1991. This 50 -acre park is being designed as a nature park with an adult and children
open play area. Allen's second citywide park is in the planning stage and is located on
Rowlett Creek. Called "The Woods," this park possesses the largest stand of trees in Allen.
The location of a citywide park should be on sites with special natural amenities, such as a
lake, forest, or native prairie. It is desirable for citywide parks to be located adjacent to the
greenbelt system and along major thoroughfares. Large numbers of visitors will be expected
to arrive by vehicle; therefore, access should not be through neighborhoods.
Park and recreation programs are to be provided on citywide park sites, including large
special events. Provisions for such uses should reflect the expressed needs of the citizens.
Examples of such uses at a citywide park are the Summer Day Camp and the Allen USA
Celebration. These programs are some of the most popular activities now being offered by
the Parks and Recreation Department based on the programs attendance records. Since the
location of citywide parks is in an area with significant natural features, the sites should
remain in a natural or minimally developed state. In addition to amenities needed for
neighborhood parks and community parks, Citywide parks could include:
• Lakes, forests, and nature education facilities to educate the visitor about the
sites' natural state
• Multipurpose trails
• Botanical gardens, arboretum, or related facility that educates the visitor on plant
material
• Amphitheater or gathering place for events
• Lakes, fishing piers, shelters, and other attractions
• Support facilities such as an internal road system, lighted parking areas, rest
rooms, concessions, and security lighting
Citywide parks should be designed to the following criteria:
• Serve the citywide population
• Include at least 75 acres of land and preferably 100 acres or more
• Include necessary development pertaining to the needs of special activities
including athletic complexes, historical/archaeological and natural preserves,
botanical gardens and day camps
• Include lakes or water bodies
26
• Depending on use, as much as one-half of the park area may be contained in the
floodplain
Greenbelt and Linkage Parks: Allen Ordinance No. 12374-94 determines conditions in
which all land within the fully developed 100 -year floodplain must be dedicated to the City.
The establishment of this ordinance is to have effective control over flood hazard
conditions. A secondary benefit of acquiring this land is to provide recreation opportunities
to the citizens of Allen.
Preservation of greenbelts throughout the city is a great benefit by adding green corridors
into the fabric of urban development. Greenbelts provide narrow linkages tying together
neighborhoods, parks, schools, and points of interests. Although greenbelts can be narrow,
their visual character provides the appearance of expansive open space especially when the
long axis of the park is coupled to a street. In Allen, the greenbelt system has the
opportunity to link together sites on the north -south axis. East -west linkages are harder to
identify. Examples of linear parks can be seen at Watters Crossing along Watters Creek,
Twin Creeks along Rowlett Creek and Aylesbury along Cottonwood Creek. This plan adds
two east -west linkages, one along future Ridgeview Drive and one along Chaparral Road
(see Plate 4).
Linkage parks usually follow utility and drainage easements. These areas provide trail
corridors, which link parks to neighborhoods, employment centers, schools and other
destination points. Allen has few such easements; therefore, the City should put a good faith
effort toward preserving these areas for recreational opportunities.
Facilities located along greenbelts are restricted due to the process in which the City
acquires creek corridors. More emphasis needs to be placed on acquiring land adjacent to
the 100 -year floodplain line and where development is appropriate. Single -loaded collector
streets should parallel greenbelts to maximize the recreational benefit to the community.
When visionary planning is accomplished in this area, facilities accommodating the desires
of the community can take place. Such facilities may include:
• Landscape development and beautification
• Buffer development between residential and higher land -use
• Multipurpose athletic practice facilities
• Multipurpose trail systems
• Playgrounds and picnic facilities
Greenbelts and linkage parks should be designed to the following criteria:
• Primarily be located within the 100 -year fully developed floodplain conditions
• Provide a trail, walk, or bicycle path
• By appropriate management, reduce area requiring mowing and labor intensive
maintenance
• Provide links to other recreational areas and schools
27
•
Special -use Parks: Park facilities that do not 6t into one of the categories above are
classified as special -use parks. These facilities may be temporary use facilities, not large
enough to serve as a community or citywide facility, or be of special interest such as a
cemetery or downtown plaza. Examples of a special -use park in Allen are the Allen
Cemetery, and the Allen Senior Citizen's Center.
The existing parks, recreation and open space system provides a total of 783.1 acres of
developed parks, undeveloped parkland, and open space (See Table 4 of Existing Park and
Recreation Facilities), plus 165 acres of private open space and neighborhood association
owned amenity centers. When compared to the existing population of 45,000, the overall
level of service provided by the park system is 17.4 acres per 1,000 persons in the city.
There are currently 243.5 acres of developed parks in the Allen system The level of service
provided by developed parkland is therefore 5.2 acres per 1,000 persons.
The total acreage of 783.1 includes three pocket parks (1.5 acres total); 19 neighborhood
parks (124.4 acres); six community parks (244 acres); two citywide parks (192 acres); five
special -use parks (41.2 acres); and 180 acres of City owned land devoted to greenbelts, and
natural open space.
The City has over the last ten years placed an emphasis on land acquisition for open space
and future parks. This can best be illustrated by comparing the current ratio of 17.4 acres of
parkland and open space per 1,000 persons to the 1992 ratio of 10 acres per 1,000 persons.
Although the population has risen sharply in the last eight years, the acres of parks per
person have increased by 74 percent. Since Allen is fixed in geographic size, the setting
aside of parkland and open spaces is imperative now to ensure that future populations of the
city will have sufficient parks and open spaces.
Developed park facilities contained in the parks and underdeveloped parkland are as
follows:
29
POCKET PARKS
Hillside Play Area - Hillside Play Area was renovated in June 1999. This park like many
others is part of the Traveling Texas theme and is called the "Dinosaurs in Texas." The park
is composed of .3 acres and is bordered by houses to the north and to the east. The amenities
in the park are a playground, water fountain, and benches. The highlight of the park is the
recreation of the Pauluxy River Bottom with actual replicas of Dinosaur footprints found in
Texas.
Rolling Hills Park - Rolling Hills Park was renovated in
June 1999. This park like many others is part of the
Traveling Texas theme and is called the "East Texas Piney
Woods." The park is composed of .3 acres and is bordered
by houses to the north and an alley to the east. The
amenities in the park are a playground, water fountain, and
benches. The highlight of the park is the renovation of the
drainage canal that bisects the park. The canal has been
used to display native plants grown in the piney woods and
has substantially enhanced the neighborhood.
Walden Park — Walden Park is classified as a Pocket Park of .3 acres. The park was
constructed and dedicated to the City of Allen in 1985. The facility contains two picnic
tables and two benches. The site is also in need of irrigation to improve the landscape
value. The overall facility is in good condition.
PARKS
Collin Square — Collin Square is classified as a
neighborhood park even though the facility functions
more as a greenbelt than as a park. It is composed of six
acres of trees and under -story along a drainage -way and
has an undersized, approximately four foot wide,
sidewalk that serves as a walking surface for the
community. This park setting is very natural and has
potential applications for future development which could
include a play area, improved hike and bike trail and most
importantly, signage that helps identify it as part of the
park system. The current status of this park is considered
to be poor.
EE
Cottonwood Bend Park — Cottonwood Bend Park is
classified as a neighborhood park and is composed of five
acres. Cottonwood Bend Park was constructed in 1989.
The park offers amenities such as: picnic tables, a
playground, open play area, and two backstops. During
the youth sport seasons, this park is used for practice for
soccer, baseball, softball, and football. The park is in fair
condition while the playground is poor and is in need of
replacement. Other amenities such as a pavilion will
increase the use value of this park.
Country Meadows — Country Meadows Park is classified as a neighborhood park and is
composed of eight acres. Country Meadows Park was constructed in 1993. The park
offers amenities such as picnic tables, a playground, open play area, and a hike and bike
trail. During the youth sport seasons, this park is used for practice for soccer and football.
The park and playground are in good condition. With the addition of a pavilion and
additional picnic sites with barbecue pits, the usage value will substantially increase.
Green Park — Green Park was constructed in 1999 and
contains a play structure, pavilion, picnic sites, and a hike
and bike trail that circles the property. The park is
composted of five acres and located to the west of Fire
Station #4. This park is part of the Traveling Texas theme
and is called "West Texas."
Heritage Park — Heritage Park was complete in lune
1999. This park like many others is part of the Traveling
Texas theme and is called the `Big Bend." A unique
feature is the modern petroglyphs located on a natural
stone retaining wall separating the playground from a
perennial plant bed. The park is composed of three acres
bordered on the west and south by Cottonwood
Greenbelt. The amenities in the park are a playground,
water fountain, and benches. The park is linked to the
greenbelt by a hike and bike trail.
31
•
•
•
Raintree Park — Currently, Raintree Park has not been
developed. It is being maintained as part of the greenbelt
system. Future development has yet to be determined.
Reed Park — Reed Park has been developed into one
large park split by the Reed Elementary School. The park
is referred to as Reed East and Reed West. Reed East
consists of approximately three acres that contains as
soccer fields, one tennis court, and one hockey court. The
tennis and roller hockey court also serve as a half -court
basketball when not being used for other activities. Reed
West was renovated in June 1999. This park is also a part
of the Traveling Texas theme and is called "Hill
Country." The park is composed of six acres and is
bordered by Timbercreek Drive to the south and an alley
to the west with the school to the east. The amenities in
the park include a playground, water fountain, pavilion
with picnic table, trail and open space. The park also
includes a six flag monument area depicting the six flags
that have flown over Texas. The monument is surrounded
by a perennial garden.
Shadow Lakes Park — Shadow Lakes Park is composted
of seven acres and was constructed in 1999. The
development contains a pavilion, picnic sites, and hike
and bake trail that circle the park. This park, like many
others is part of the Traveling Texas theme parks and is
called `Red River."
Story Park — Story Park is composed of ten acres. The
park was constructed in 1988. The facility contains four
picnic tables, a play structure, open field play area, an
arbor at the play structure, and two backstops. The overall
condition of the park is fair. The play structure is in need
of replacement and further development is needed within
the park to enhance its appeal. Currently the park is used
for youth sport practice.
32
Watters Crossing — Watters Crossing Park was
developed in 1994. The park is composed of nine acres.
Park amenities are located in the northern portion of the
park. The amenities include a covered pavilion, play
structure and a multipurpose court. The current facility is
in good condition, however future development should
include continuation of the hike and bike trail along the
perimeter of the park and the planting of trees.
Neighborhood parks under development include:
Glendover — This park has been master planned with the
assistance from the Parks and Recreation Board and
neighborhood input. The park will contain a playground,
sand volleyball, pavilion, open play area, trail, fishing
pier, and small lake. Glendover park is 9 acres in size.
Glendover is scheduled for development in the fall of
2000, and is a part of the Traveling Texas theme.
Bethany Ridge —This park has been master planned with
assistance from the Parks and Recreation Board and
neighborhood input. The park consists of 4.6 acres and
will contain a playground, trail, picnic sites, fishing pier,
and a lake. Bethany Ridge is scheduled for development
in the Fall of 2000, and is part of the Traveling Texas
theme, and is called "Coastal Bend."
Watters CrossinglTwin Creeks — This park has been master planned with the Parks and
Recreation Board and neighborhood input. The park consists of 4.8 acres and will contain
a playground, trails, birdhouses, heavily wooded grounds, a pavilion and the open play
area. This park is scheduled for development in the fall of 2000, and is part of the
Traveling Texas Theme, and is called `Birds of Texas".
33
�I
1k,
I
T
V
Watters Crossing — Watters Crossing Park was
developed in 1994. The park is composed of nine acres.
Park amenities are located in the northern portion of the
park. The amenities include a covered pavilion, play
structure and a multipurpose court. The current facility is
in good condition, however future development should
include continuation of the hike and bike trail along the
perimeter of the park and the planting of trees.
Neighborhood parks under development include:
Glendover — This park has been master planned with the
assistance from the Parks and Recreation Board and
neighborhood input. The park will contain a playground,
sand volleyball, pavilion, open play area, trail, fishing
pier, and small lake. Glendover park is 9 acres in size.
Glendover is scheduled for development in the fall of
2000, and is a part of the Traveling Texas theme.
Bethany Ridge —This park has been master planned with
assistance from the Parks and Recreation Board and
neighborhood input. The park consists of 4.6 acres and
will contain a playground, trail, picnic sites, fishing pier,
and a lake. Bethany Ridge is scheduled for development
in the Fall of 2000, and is part of the Traveling Texas
theme, and is called "Coastal Bend."
Watters CrossinglTwin Creeks — This park has been master planned with the Parks and
Recreation Board and neighborhood input. The park consists of 4.8 acres and will contain
a playground, trails, birdhouses, heavily wooded grounds, a pavilion and the open play
area. This park is scheduled for development in the fall of 2000, and is part of the
Traveling Texas Theme, and is called `Birds of Texas".
33
is
Lost Creek Park — This park was master planned by the
home developer with considerable input from the City
staff and the Parks and Recreation Board. The park will
remain in its natural condition except for a small area at
the entry to the neighborhood and around the amenity
center. The park will contain a trail, pavilion, and picnic
areas. Lost Creek is 13 acres in size and is scheduled for
development in the fall of 2000.
Other neighborhood parks acquired, but not developed are:
Spring Meadow — 6.1 acres undeveloped
Paxton Property — 16.2 acres undeveloped
Maxwell Creek Property — 4.7 acres undeveloped
Lost Creek Property #1— 5 acres undeveloped
Lost Creek Property #2 — 4 acres undeveloped
Suncreek Park — 5 acres undeveloped
COMMUNITY PARKS
Bethany Lakes Park — Developed in 1991, Bethany
Lakes is a 40 -acre community park with passive
recreation amenities. The park is host to the Joe Partner
Recreation Center and offers a play area, four ponds, a
baseball/softball backstop, clubhouse for indoor rentals,
an open-air pavilion, fourteen picnic sites, hike and bike
trails, and a fishing pier. The park is presently being
renovated to include installation of lighting around the
play area, dredging of the reflection pond and trimming of
the deteriorating Cottonwood trees around the play area.
Currently, the playground is in good condition and the
overall park is in fair condition. The turf in the park is not
irrigated and is composed of Buffalograss. In the future,
areas will need to be irrigated to improve the overall
quality of the park.
Joe Farmer Recreation Center — The 24,000 square
foot recreation center, constructed in 1996, is host to a
grass hillside amphitheater. The site surrounding the
recreation center is approximately two acres. It is
composed of a one -acre reflection pond and an
amphitheater. The turf on the facility is TIF 419, which
is commonly used for high traffic areas, such as sports
fields or golf course fairways. This facility is in good
condition.
34
•
•
•
•
•
• Ford Park West — Ford Park West is a 20 acre community park, which includes 13
• picnic sites, one pavilion, one play structure, two open play areas, three lighted
• multipurpose courts, four lighted tennis courts, one lighted inline hockey court, a 25yard
• outdoor swimming pool, and hike and bike trails connecting to the greenbelt system. In
1999, a pedestrian bridge crossing Cottonwood Creek was added to make the connection
• from east -west sides of the creek. The overall park is in good condition, however, the
• playground needs to be replaced and the tennis facility needs resurfacing.
Ford Park East - Developed in 1986 as the City's fust
athletic complex, 23 acre Ford Park East includes three
lighted and irrigated 300 -foot adult softball fields planted
with Common Bermuda grass turf. These fields are used
for approximately 900 adult softball games each year,
along with practices. The condition of this facility is
excellent and the turf and infield are the best in the area.
The major shortcoming is the lack of permanent fences.
Outfield fences have been installed, however, fencing for
the wings has been postponed.
Also at Ford Park East is a lighted soccer facility. The irrigated field is planted with TIF
419 turf and is composed of two regulation size fields and one Under 10 size field. One of
the regulation size fields is divided into two Under 8 game fields, and the Under 10 field
is also divided into two Under 8 game fields. The turf is good. Approximately 1440
games are played annually at this complex.
Other Community Parks acquired, but not developed are:
West Side Community Park — 57 acres undeveloped
Athletic Complex —102 acres undeveloped
35
CITYWIDE PARKS
Allen Station Park Allen Station Park includes baseball
fields, softball fields, and soccer fields. The baseball
fields located at Exchange and Cedar are lighted and were
constructed in 1998. The irrigated fields are planted with
TIF 419 turf, a hybrid specifically developed for athletic
fields. Allen Station baseball fields features four 200 -foot
softball fields and one 300 -foot field. The baseball fields
are used by the ASA baseball program from March
through July, and from September through November for
Little League sanctioned spring and fall baseball.
Approximately 850 baseball games per year are played on
these fields. The condition of the facility is excellent.
Two of the 200 -foot fields infield areas between first base
and third base have been concerted to clay to alleviate
wear.
The Allen Station softball fields (located at Exchange and Cedar) host ASA sponsored
Fast -Pitch softball for Amateur Softball Association sanctioned leagues from March
through July, and from September through November. Approximately 750 games are
played at the Allen Station softball fields each year, including six Fast -Pitch tournaments.
The softball TIF 419 turf is excellent. The clay infield contains a lot of rock, causing
numerous complaints from players. The infield irrigation heads will soon be replaced.
The present heads do a poor job, which causes the infields to become bard.
The soccer fields at Allen Station (located at Cedar and St. Mary's) are the oldest soccer
fields in Allen. The facility was upgraded and lighted in 1998. The fields are irrigated,
have a common Bermuda turf, and feature two soccer fields for the Under 10 league.
Approximately 110 games per year are played on these fields. The condition of the
common Bermuda fields is good. A shortcoming, though, is the absence of any rest
room/concession facilities at this location.
The Woods — The Woods was purchased by the City of Allen in 1997
and is composed of 76 acres of heavily wooded parkland. Currently the
site is being master planned to coordinate with future development
along the Rowlett Creek corridor.
36
Greenbelt Parks
Mustang Branch — Located in a residential areas, this creek is popular for fishing and
hiking. Houses a re backed to the creek creating numerous conflicts between perceived
need for maintenance and the ability of the City to meet this need. Mustang Branch
extends from main Street to Cottonwood Creek.
Cottonwood Creek — This branch extends from Mustang Branch on the southern end to
Ford Park. Via Mustang Branch one can hike from Ford Park to Bethany Lakes Park on a
continuous trail system. Cottonwood Creek will ultimately connect with Plano and
McKinney through Allen Station Park and the proposed municipal golf course.
Watters Branch — Extending from Rowlett Creek to the northern City limits line,
Watters Branch will connect the Baptist Property, a future Community Park and the
Watters Crossing amenity center. Twin Creeks development is responsible for
constructing approximately one and one-half miles of trail from Watters Crossing to the
limits of the Twin Creeks Development. Within the year the trail should be approximately
two and one-half miles long.
Rowlett Creek — Trails along Rowlett Creek are currently contained within the Suncreek
development, Villas of Suncreek and Twin Creeks Golf Course. These trails total
approximately 2 miles. Long range plans call for this trail system to connect Frisco with
Garland, routing through Richardson, Plano, and Allen.
Lost Creek Property — Lost Creek is 13 acres and is currently undeveloped. This trail is
the only feasible way to link with Duck Creek in Fairview, which has the potential to tie
into Lake Lavon.
Special -use Parks
Bolin Park — Developed in 1994, this park is a joint
venture with Twin Creeks whereby the City provides
active game fields and Twin Creeks provides a
combination of active and private passive uses facilities
such as swimming, play equipment, basketball court,
tennis, and open space. Bolin Park facilities include two
lighted baseball fields and two unlighted soccer fields.
Hillside Baseball Fields — This lighted facility was built
in the early 1970's and has two 300 -foot baseball fields
that are used by ASA soccer, football, softball, and
baseball teams. The common Bermuda turf is in bad
condition due to the lack of a functioning irrigation
system. The system is old and would be expensive to
37
repair. This is the oldest athletic facility in Allen and is in
the poorest condition. This facility is now being used as a
temporary facility. Plans to convert this facility into a
football or t -ball baseball facility will improve the facility
and offer a positive improvement on the neighborhood.
Jupiter Park — Built in 1976, these fields are irrigated and planted with common
Bermuda turf. Jupiter offers two 80 x 50 yard fields, one lighted, and one not lighted. The
ASA football and cheerleading programs for tackle and flag football leagues use Jupiter
fields. Approximately 130 games per year are played on these fields. The condition of this
facility is fair. The athletic turf is in good shape. The fields were irrigated in 1997,
making a huge improvement in the quality and quantity of the common Bermuda turf.
Football participants are very satisfied with the quality of the turf compared to its
previous condition. The rest of the facility is lacking. No permanent restroom facilities
are available. ASA volunteers built the concession stand in the early 1980s.
Senior Citizen's Center - The senior citizens have
converted an old house in the Central Business District
into a center. Their weekly meetings, monthly luncheons,
and activities are held at this location. Future plans to
relocate the senior program to the old Central Fire Station
have been discussed by City Council. The relocation,
however, has not been approved.
Natatorium Site — The natatorium is a joint venture with
the Allen Independent School District. The facility will be
approximately 47,000 square feet in size and contain a
7,000 square feet of leisure waters, a 25 -yard by 25 -meter
pool, 5,000 square feet fitness facility, aerobics room, a
climbing wall, and related support facilities. The site is
located at Allen Station Park and contains 10.2 acres of
land. Facility construction will begin in July 2000, with
an anticipated opening date of August 2001.
Natural Open Space
The City of Allen currently owns 180 acres of undeveloped natural open space. The
existing natural open space is primarily located along the four major creek corridors that
run from north to south through the City — Cottonwood Creek, Watters Creek, Rowlett
Creek, and Mustang Branch. These open space tracts are undeveloped and are only
suitable for very limited recreational development due to the flooding potential posed by
it
their proximity to the creeks. These tracts are suitable, however for sensitive trail
development.
External Influences
There are several external influences on the Allen park system that need to be considered
when analyzing the existing park network. The City of Allen is surrounded by other
cities. McKinney and Fairview are adjacent to Allen on the north. Plano and Parker are
adjacent to the City limits to the south and west. Parker, Lucas, and Fairview are adjacent
to the city limits of Allen on the east.
While McKinney and Plano have good park systems, Parker, Lucas, and Fairview do not
contain parks to meet the needs of their respective citizens. As a result, some recreation
programs offered in Allen — particularly youth sports — draw participants from Parker,
Lucas, and Fairview. Conversely, some Allen residents use Plano and McKinney parks
for leisure activities. The full impact of this `recreation migration" is not known, but
should be continually monitored in the future.
The private sector also has an impact on the existing recreational scene in Allen. In recent
years, planned residential developments containing private parks have been built.
Although the private parks are typically small — 1.5 acres on average — they do add to the
recreational inventory. There are currently five private, homeowner -owned, parks in
Allen. These parks typically contain a neighborhood pool and/or tennis courts and satisfy
a small sector of the overall recreational needs of the immediately adjacent
neighborhoods.
39
asnoygnlp
»Id %mysg
good 8uwww.S
unoJ lla9�allon
snnoosWuay
Plait 1pgy-SAlegasa8
sunoJ IlaglaMS-B
N
Smpms SSSWH
E"
SIMM 8uagof
a
U
C
sl!wi wNaN
W
z
[..
SStlReld uad0
a�
U u
n19RL a!uaN
U
suo!IMad
_
4
�
suoogsa8
C
�flF/W6Jf'
MJ
3
ga¢d)O ad/y,
U
U
Z
Z
Z
U
V
Z
Z
m
s
Z
s
Z
Z
6
Z
IRS real
ar
a
0j
8zm
m
fi
E
m
3
rc
awaW,
3
s
W
m
3
3
a
.:
cV
M
4
vi
,G
o6
oT
p
t
afinoggnlp
a!a 8mg64
loot' S...s
unoo IIW-11-A
fiunoo firyual
Pla!d 1laggoS/ilaga66g
6pp,, aaos
SE
S
a°
sunop Ilegnysfig
fi.Unms 9.Mj
ellul?.W.,
aq.1
mnlaN
w
z
a
O
6v -a
-
Wd
F
.alv all naso
W
apuno�6ey
_
¢
Z >.
6algel o!uay
� U
$
x
_
�
6uolgneg
y
a
�
a
s
V
smoogay
z
F
aN w
++�]
MJ
Vad Jo .14
Z
z
z
V
Z
Z
z
O
Z
u
U
Z
z
111.9+-A
3
m
Y
awayl
F
w
z
9
gg
g
E
g
N
N
N
N
M
M
M
M
M
M
N
N
M
t
CITY OF ALLEN NAME OF PARK TYPE OF PARK
Parks & Recreation
Department
Alan StaAm Park
I Paw
Cartery
Cann Spam
C. -Md. Sew Paw
CWrayM W.
F.d Park""'
FIXO Park Wan
Ga. Park
Hxllge Park
Hllsid+6 11.1.
Hlawds Ray A+ea
BaNarty lakes Parks
JWi6 Park
SunrI
ReFtreePak
I Park
fldllrg Rd. Pew
Servo Clsd na @rMr
Sled. Lekm Pak
Slay Pew
WddenPark
Waters CMaVTwa Creeks
(31ando.
Wailers Creekyrwin Crreks
Beft, Rd,
The Weds
stung Meatlow
Pa" PlOnaty
Mavw91 Crask %(pal,
Lost Crank Prcyary
bACrask RLpary M1
Atranc Corrylex
Watters&a dr Pmpenty
Naiaalun SIM
WrAC.Ir Proar M2
CW
N
S
N
N
N
C
1. r Fboe PI9110nen SIM. Ogrr Staab
Cerdral ears. Drugs
St. 1l� Park lUewlllcetbn
City Lmib Parka Capary
Alen -Exiand Paw Land
ing&. Development - GIS
June 200D
No Text
This recreational needs assessment uses a variety of planning approaches to determine
current and future needs. For organized sports such as youth baseball/softball, youth soccer
and adult softball, the demand -based approach is used. This method analyzes participation
statistics for each league or age group to determine current and projected demands for active
sports fields. Additionally, the citizen surveys conducted in 1995 and 1997 provide
information on the demand for non-arganized recreational components such as trails,
playgrounds, and picnic areas.
In Allen, the resource-based approach to planning is also used. This planning method places
emphasis on natural resources — in this instance — major creeks and tributaries located in the
city. Since a significant portion of the Allen park system, and particularly the linear
park(open space network, is defined by Watters Creek, Rowlett Creek, Mustang Branch and
Cottonwood Creek, the resource based approach is key to defining needs and fording
solutions to those needs.
Third, the standard based approach to analyzing needs is used. Although nationally
recognized park planning standards for some recreational activities will not work in Allen,
other standards assist in establishing planning targets to aim for. For instance, due to the
exceptionally high participation rate for youth sports in Allen, recognized national standards
of one soccer field for every 10,000 people are not feasible. In these instances, an emphasis
will be placed on the known recreational demand established through current and projected
participation rates, otherwise known as demand.
By using each of these planning tools, the local recreational needs can be established. The
resulting product will be a balanced parks network that includes active recreational
44
elements, non -organized recreational elements, passive elements, and an open space
network tailored to the specific needs of the City of Allen.
Active Recreation/Atllletics
Current athletic and recreation programs and projected athletic and recreation programs in
Allen are important to consider when projecting future facility needs within the city. Allen
Sports Association provides youth sports in Allen, which include basketball, baseball, inline
hockey, soccer, girl's softball, football, cheerleading, and volleyball. Although each of these
sports has seen steady growth in participation, the growth in youth baseball, girl's softball,
and soccer has been overwhehning in recent years.
Participation in youth soccer, youth baseball, and youth softball in Allen is much higher
than other cities throughout the United States. As an example, participation in youth soccer
in Allen is about 3.3 times the national per capita average. Local participation in youth
baseball and youth softball is two times the national per capita average.
Another sport that has the potential for rapid growth is inline hockey. Although the statistics
do not indicate a growth challenge, the sport is new and is growing at a rapid rate in other
parts of the country.
Since the local participation in youth sports is much higher than national averages,
commonly used standards for baseball, youth softball, and youth soccer does not apply in
Allen. Based on the current participation rates, the following standards are proposed for use
in Allen to detemane the demand for game fields for youth sports. The basis of the standard
is to provide one game field for each twelve teams.
• Game field standard = 1 field/3,000 persons in population
• Practice facility standard = Game fields x 1.5
or
1 Practice field for each 2,000 persons in population
• Practice facilities are to be multi -use where practical and are not always
to be full size fields
Table 5 applies the above standards to the three most popular sports in Allen to determine
the optimum number of game fields required.
SUPPLY AND DEMAND
City of Allen, Texas
Fields—
Existing Long
Surplus(Deficit)
Fields—
Fields—
SPORT
Demand
Term Fields
2000
Demand
Demand
(2000)
2005
2010
67130
(95,700)
Youth Soccer
15 fields
9 fields
6
23 fields
29 fields
Youth Baseball
& Softball
15
11
(4)
23
29
combined
fields
fields
fields
fields
45
CITY SPONSORED ATHLETIC PROGRAMS
City of Allen, Texas
1994
1995
1 1996
997T
999
YOUTH SPORTS
COAST
205
150
175
179
184
Learn to Swim
414
436
S76
1,008
995
Swimming Pool
Attendance
33,318
42,250
44,925
36,450
44,680
Day Camp
223
300
300
3S0
350
ADULT SPORTS
Athletic Camps
252
395
755-0
0
0
Adult
Basketball
340
390
Soo
Soo
342 *
Adult
Volleyball
260
570
S80
490
320*
Adult Slow-
pitch Softball
1,728
1,728
2.196
2,484
3,152
Source: Allen Parks and Recreation Department
Legend
Reduced Days by 15 days
as Athletic camps turned over to Allen Independent School District
** Allen ISD did not allow use of their gyms during summer 1999
Recreation Interests
A citizen survey was sent to a random selection of Allen residents in 1995 and again
in 1997. The response to the survey yielded a confidence interval in excess of 90
percent. The geographic distribution of the survey closely reflected the actual
distribution of residents within the City. A summary of the statistically significant
citywide responses is contained herein.
46
r
park and recreation opportunities. This information is used to measure the interest of the
general population but is not used analytically as the sole instrument to determine the
required facilities of the future park system. The survey measures the interests of those
presently living in Allen.
While the facility requirements of the future population of Allen cannot be precisely
determined, the City can attempt to meet the interests of its existing population, while
planning the basic components of the system—neighborhood, community, greenbelt, and
special -use parks—and proceed with identifying, acquiring and developing park sites.
Similar to the 1995 citizen surveys, respondents in the 1997 citizen survey indicated a
strong interest in using or potentially using parks and open space. When the question was
asked, "Do you think additional parks are needed in Allen?" Overwhehningly, respondents
supported additional parks. Only 12.0 percent do not believe additional parks are needed.
Passive parks gained a respondent support of 83.4 percent, neighborhood parks 76.8
percent, playgrounds 70.3 percent, greenbelts 69.5 percent and active parks gained the
support of 56.6 percent. While strong support of passive recreation was gained in the
survey, results also showed strong support of active recreation when asked the question,
"How often would you or a family member use these facilities?" (See Table 7)
Tables 7 and 8 identified the percentages of respondents that claim they use Allen parks and
recreation facilities. The important point to reference is the relative order in which these
facilities appear in the two columns. Column one indicates the percentage of respondents
willing to use the facilities daily and once per week (totals combined). Column two
constitutes an evaluation that was based on respondents' willingness to use these facilities 2
to 3 times per month. Column three combines the results of columns one and two.
Source: Allen Citizen Survey, 1997
47
MOST FREQUENTLY USED COMMUNM FACELMES
City of Allen, Texas
Often
(Percent)
Occasionally
(Percent)
Weighted
Score
Trails
46.6
25.5
728
Indoor Pool
37.2
29.3
557
Outdoor Pool
32.7
30.6
530
Natural Open Space
31.5
27.0
511
Ball Fields
42.2
21.6
498
Recreation Center
28.9
20.8
443
Source: Allen Citizen Survey, 1997
47
•
•
•
•
Table 8 examines the frequency in which respondents use various types of parks.
• Overwhelmingly, respondents prefer passive parks where walking for pleasure is the
• preferred recreation program. Allen's greenbelt system is addressing this issue, but the
current system is fragmented, thereby restricting the potential of the trail system. Children
• and youth recreation programs also rated high. Allen has begun to address these issues by
• offering a wider range of programs at the Joe Farmer Recreation Center. Youth camps are
very popular and will expand in 2000-2001.
P DIF
MOST FREQUENTLY USED PARRS
City of Allen, Texas
Often
Occasionally
Total
(Percent)
(Percent)
(Percent)
Jogging Paths
47.8
23.3
71.1
Hike/Bike Trails
45.5
27.7
73.2
Parks
43.2
31.7
74.9
Children's Recreation
32.4
26.3
58.7
Programs
Open Space
31.5
27.0
58.5
Teen Age Recreation
28.3
25.0
53.3
Programs
Golf Course
24.4
28.1
52.5
Adult Recreation
18.4
25.6
44.0
Programs
Senior Citizen's
13.8
8.7
22,5
Programs
[71n -Line Hockey
12.6
13.0
25.6
ouwu, Amen Ciuwn Survey, ryyi
Hike/Bike Trails
Allen has an unprecedented opportunity for providing an excellent bicycle transportation
program. Two-thirds of Allen is still undeveloped, and there is the possibility of obtaining
the necessary right-of-way for effective on -street bike lanes. Reaching this potential will
take coordination between the Planning, Engineering and Parks and recreation Departments
to assure on -road bicycle lanes are connected to off-road hike and bike trails.
The 1990 citizen survey indicates that there is strong support for hike/bike paths (52
percent). The 1997 citizen survey shows even stronger support of 73.2 percent. Support for
hike and bike trails goes back even further to the 1990 Texas Outdoor Recreation Plan
published by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, which states that the most needed
W-
•
recreational improvements are multipurpose trails for use by bicyclists and pedestrians. By
integrating on -road bike network with off-road trail opportunities, Allen has the opportunity
for both work and recreational mobility.
Planning for a network of on -street and off-road trails needs to take place immediately.
Allen is quickly platting out the remainder of the city's residential property. If an efficient
and cost-effective means of establishing an integrated system of paths is to take place, it
must happen within the next year. The Parks and Recreation and the Planning Departments
are currently in the process of developing congruent plans that will integrate these trail
systems. Oversight of the plans must be accompanied by a City ordinance that will solidify
their existence. These trail planning documents will not be a part of this plan, yet stand
alone in guiding planning decision related to trail development.
Another challenge for creating an effective recreational trail system is identifying east -west
routes. The design for east -west linkages between the linear park system was expressed by
the original 1985 Oversight Committee. Creek alignment primarily runs northwest to
southeast. This plan recommends including two on -street trails that will allow for ease -west
connections. These locations are Chapparral from Cottonwood Creek to Rowlett Creek and
Future Ridgeview from Watters Branch to Rowlett Creek. Once these connections are
provided, recreational loops up to 17 miles in length will be available for use.
Greenbelts, Linkage Parks, and Natural Open Space
Respondents reported that jogging trails and hike/bike trails were the most popular activity
by a total of 71.1 percent and 73.2 percent respectively. Those respondents that claim to use
these facilities often, once or twice per week, also had the highest ratings of 47.8 percent
and 45.5 percent respectively. Allen addresses this need by developing trail systems
throughout the parks and recreation system. The primary facilities for such activity are to be
located in the City's greenbelts.
The greenbelts should be maintained in their natural state to minimize maintenance costs,
while providing passive outdoor recreational opportunities for the citizens of Allen. The
City may elect to put conservation easements on floodplain lands and other areas where
appropriate, in order to assure this goal is maintained in the future. Allen contains four
major creek systems — Rowlett Creek, Watters Creek, Mustang Branch, and Cottonwood
Creek. Each of these creeks contains outstanding natural attributes. The creek corridors are
relatively undisturbed and provide potential to satisfy local demand for natural
environments and trails. The combination of these creeks provides the backbone for an
outstanding natural open space/trails network. The creeks should not be paved, straightened
or "improved" to increase their capacity to handle storm water, unless all natural and
bioengineering alternatives have been exhausted. This type of improvement typically creates
new problems downstream requiring the "supposed solution" to be used again.
For the greenbelt to effectively serve as a trail transportation system or adequate recreation
facility, additional attention needs to be placed on the width of the trails. For park
opportunities and the effectiveness of the trail system, a set back ordinance needs to be
considered in areas where erosion is likely to threaten recreational areas. This would
increase the amount of space dedicated or purchased between the 100 -year floodplain line
49
and development. In areas where development is within a few feet of the stream banks, yet
outside the 100 -year floodplain line, a set back ordinance would increase the recreational
and management effectiveness of the greenbelt, while reducing the likelihood that erosion
would threaten development or recreation uses. Open space/trail corridor widths in excess
of 100' wide allow for sensitive development of a trial with minimal disturbance to the
natural environment. Should trails be located on both sides of the creek, the corridor width
should allow for a minimum of 200 feet. This recommendation is further substantiated by
the intercity erosion control report prepared by Halff Associates on the behalf of Allen,
Plano, Frisco, and McKinney.
The quality of the corridors must also be protected from another hazard of development—
sedimentation. The City should develop an erosion control ordinance that prevents soil
erosion both during and after construction. The ordinance might also require onsite
detention of storm water in order to regulate the great quantities of runoff that the creeks
will be required to handle when the city is fully developed. Examples of where sediment has
decreased the health of water bodies is along Mustang Branch, Bethany Lakes, and in
Private development water bodies such as Watters Crossing ponds.
Since much of the development of land in Allen was previously used for agriculture
purposes, heavily treed areas are rare outside the creek corridors. When parkland is
purchased, a strong emphasis should be placed on the preservation of natural open spaces,
especially areas containing natural vegetation and trees. The preservation of these natural
areas can add diversity to the park site and provide habitat for various forms of wildlife.
Finally, to be truly successful as linear parks, the City must coordinate the design of future
streets and bridges to allow uninterrupted pedestrian, and/or bicycle, travel under or
adjacent to vehicular routes. This can be accomplished by providing adequate headroom
between the path and support structure where bridges are used or by using box culverts
large enough for pedestrians and cyclists where roads are built on fill.
Emerging Recreational Trends
Recreational demand in communities such as Allen is ever changing. New
sports and recreational activities are constantly emerging. In recent years
in-line skating, roller hockey, mountain biking, rock climbing and disc golf
have become very popular with certain segments of the population. Some
traditional sports such as lacrosse, handball, and even lawn bowling are
also reemerging as popular recreational activities in many communities.
Although it is impossible to predict the local demand for many of these emerging
activities, the City must continually monitor the local need for facilities to accommodate
new and innovative sports. Additionally, the city staff should encourage new forms of
recreation and provide safe facilities to perpetuate growth of emerging sports.
50
CITY OF ALLEN
Parks & Recreation
Department
NAME OF PARK
Allen Slallm Park
Wlh
GWdary
CdIMSg re
C dl..w N, W PaM
TYPE OF PARK
CW
S
S
N
N
Land Acquisition Needs
The City Parks and Open Space Plan, detailed in Plate 4 identifies all land needed to
accommodate a build -out population of 120,000. Land currently owned by the City appears
in green and red. Land needing to be acquired by the City appears in hatched green. With a
buildout population of 120,000 persons, it is appropriate for the parkland inventory to
equal 1,913 acres. Table 10 illustrates the remaining lands needing to be acquired in order to
meet an expected total acreage of 1,913.
- Does not include PDF
52
PARKLAND ACQUISMON NEEDS
City of Allen, Texas
Neighborhood Parks
Acreage
Value
Possible Funding
source
McDermott Property #1
15
$675,000
PDF
McDermott Property #2
15
$675,000
PDF
Williams Property
15
675,000
PDF
N. Rowlett Creek - West
15
675,000
PDF
N. Rowlett Creek—East
15
675,000
PDF
Twin Creeks 4C
15
675,000
PDF
W. of Watters - S. of Stacy
15
675,000
PDF
N. ofExcgange— E. of Allen Heights
IS
$675,000
PDF
N. of Stacy by Golf Course
15
67500
PDF
Continuity Parks
N. Rowlett Creek
125
$2,812,500
Bonds/County
Bush -Elkins
30
1,350,000
CDC/Bonds
Deficit—To Be Determined
81
3,645,000
Bonds/CDC
Metropolitan (Citywide) Parks
Ms. McDermott
155
1,350,000
Bonds/CDC
Hamilton
70
450,000
CDCBonds
Williams
125
0
NA
Special -use Parks
Baptist Property
5
220,000
1 CDC
Golf Course
110
4,950,000
Bonds/CDC
TOTAL
$14,777,500-
- Does not include PDF
52
i^.
Based on the growth projections, current recreational facilities, and the recreational needs
established for the City of Allen, the following list of recreational priorities are established.
Facilities are listed in descending order of importance.
Recreational Priorities
1. Multi -use trails
2. Youth soccer fields
3. Picnic sites
4. Youth baseball/softball fields
5. Playgrounds
6. Multi -use areas/courts (for unstructured recreation)
7. Sand volleyball courts
8. Municipal golf course
9. Adult softball fields
10. Indoor recreation center
11. Tennis courts
12. Outdoor swimming pools
13. Football fields
14. Inline hockey rinks
53
Implementation Program
The following implementation program is established to satisfy the parks, recreation, and
open space goals and objectives — and to satisfy the recreation demands of the citizens of
Allen. The program is projected for five years, however the program will be annually
updated as CDC funds become available.
IlNPLEMENTATION PROGRAM
City of Allen, Texas
PROJECT
ESTIMATED COST
FUNDING SOURCE
YEAR TO BE
IMPLEMENTED
Trail development, links, trod
hearts, etc
$170,000
60,000
540,000
Bonds
CDC
CDC
2000
2000
2001
Natatorium
1,100,000
1,500,000
4,300,000
2,400,000
94' Bonds
CDC
AISD
99'Bonds
2000.2001
Suncreek Park NP
500,000
Bonds
2000
Athletic Complex
4,650,000
500,000
Bonds
TPWD
2001
RM 2551 Addetic Com lex
1,950,000
Bonds
2000
Bohn Park Fence
150,000
Bonds
2000
Twin Creeks NP
300,000
Bonds
2000
Parkland Acquisition
195,000
CDC
2000
Shadow Lakes Greenbelt
209,000
CDC
2000
Bethany Ridge NP
200,000
PDA
2000
Ford Park Rehab
210,000
CDC
2001
Tree Farm
50,000
CDC
2001
Lost Creek#1
300,000
100,000
PDF
1 De,,clover Funded
2000-2001
New Neighborhood Park
300,000
PDF
2002
New Neighborhood Parks 2
600,000
Bonds
2002
Municipal Golf Course Land
4,000,000
Bonds
2002-2003
Allen Station Park Phase II
3,000,000
500,000
Bonds
TPWD
2002-2003
W/side Community Parklaril
Acquisition
4,[00,000
Bonds
2002
Trails
300,000
Bonds
2002
Neighborhood Parks
300,000
PDF
2003
Neighborhood Park Rehab
Story Park
Cottonwood Bend
Collin Square
600,000
CDC
2002-2003
Allen Station Park Phase In
3,000,000
CDC
2003
New Nei hbodmad Park
300,000
PDF
2004
Ju 'ter Park Build -out
650,000
I Bonds
2004
Legend:
CDC --Allen Community Development Corporation, TPWD--Texas Parks and Wildlife Department grant
funds, PDF=Park Dedication Fees
54