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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011-3358 - Ordinance - 07/14/2011ORDINANCE NO. 2011-3358 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS, AMENDING THE COLLEGE STATION COMPREHENSIVE PLAN BY REPEALING THE RECREATION, PARK, AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN DATED JUNE 2003 RESOLUTION NO. 6-12-2003-9.5 AND ADOPTING THE PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE, PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND CONTAINING OTHER PROVISIONS RELATED THERETO. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS: PART 1: That the College Station Comprehensive Plan is hereby amended by repealing the Recreation, Park and Open Space Master Plan dated June 2003 with Resolution No. 6-12-2003-9.5 and by adding a new section B.12, the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, as duly adopted herein and as incorporated into such Comprehensive Plan by reference thereto as is recited in full and as set forth in Exhibit "A" attached hereto and made a part hereof. PART 2: That the City Council of the City of College Station hereby adopts the Parks and Recreation Master Plan as set out in Exhibit "B" attached hereto and made a part hereof. PART 3: That if any provisions of any section of this ordinance shall be held to be void or unconstitutional, such holding shall in no way affect the validity of the remaining provisions or sections of this ordinance, which shall remain in full force and effect. PART 4: That this ordinance shall take effect immediately from and after its passage. PASSED, ADOPTED and APPROVED this 14th day of July, 2011. ATTEST: Z€crei AP ' OVED: )14 1-84-tutt ty Attorney APPROVED: Mayor ORDINANCE NO. 2011-3358 EXHIBIT "A" A. Comprehensive Plan Page 2 The College Station Comprehensive Plan (Ordinance 3186) is hereby adopted and consists of the following: 1. Existing Conditions; 2. Introduction; 3. Community Character; 4. Neighborhood Integrity; 5. Economic Development; 6. Parks, Greenways & the Arts; 7. Transportation; 8. Municipal Services & Community Facilities; and 9. Growth Management and Capacity. B. Master Plans The following Master Plans are hereby adopted and made a part of the College Station Comprehensive Plan: 1. The Northgate Redevelopment Plan dated November 1996; 2. The Revised Wolf Pen Creek Master Plan dated 1998; 3. Northgate Redevelopment Implementation Plan dated July 2003; 4. East College Station Transportation Study dated May 2005; 5. Park Land Dedication Neighborhood Park Zones Map dated January 2009; 6. Park Land Dedication Community Park Zones map dated April 2009; 7. Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan dated January 2010; 8. Central College Station Neighborhood Plan dated June 2010; 9. Water System Master Plan dated August 2010; 10. Wastewater Master Plan dated June 2011; 11. Eastgate Neighborhood Plan dated June 2011; and 12. Parks and Recreation Master Plan dated July 2011. C. Miscellaneous Amendments The following miscellaneous amendments to the College Station Comprehensive Plan are as follows: 1. Future Land Use and Character Map Amendment: a. 301 Southwest Parkway - Ordinance 3255, dated July 2010. 1 ORDINANCE NO. 2011-3358 D. General Page 3 1. Conflict. All parts of the College Station Comprehensive Plan and any amendments thereto shall be harmonized where possible to give effect to all. Only in the event of an irreconcilable conflict shall the later adopted ordinance prevail and then only to the extent necessary to avoid such conflict. Ordinances adopted at the same city council meeting without reference to another such ordinance shall be harmonized, if possible, so that effect may be given to each. 2. Purpose. The Comprehensive Plan is to be used as a guide for growth and development for the entire City and its extra -territorial jurisdiction ("ETJ"). The College Station Comprehensive Plan depicts generalized locations of proposed future land -uses, including thoroughfares, bikeways, pedestrian ways, parks, greenways, and waterlines that are subject to modification by the City to fit local conditions and budget constraints. 3. General nature of Future Land Use and Character. The College Station Comprehensive Plan, in particular the Future Land Use and Character Map found in A.3 above and any adopted amendments thereto, shall not be nor considered a zoning map, shall not constitute zoning regulations or establish zoning boundaries and shall not be site or parcel specific but shall be used to illustrate generalized locations. 4. General nature of College Station Comprehensive Plan. The College Station Comprehensive Plan, including the Thoroughfare Plan, Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan, Central College Station Neighborhood Plan, Water System Master Plan and any additions, amendments, master plans and subcategories thereto depict same in generalized terms including future locations; and are subject to modifications by the City to fit local conditions, budget constraints, cost participation, and right-of-way availability that warrant further refinement as development occurs. Linear routes such as bikeways, greenways, thoroughfares, pedestrian ways, waterlines and sewer lines that are a part of the College Station Comprehensive Plan may be relocated by the City 1,000 feet from the locations shown in the Plan without being considered an amendment thereto. 5. Reference. The term College Station Comprehensive Plan includes all of the above in its entirety as if presented in full herein, and as same may from time to time be amended. ORDINANCE NO. 2011-3358 Page 4 EXHIBIT "B" PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN pal& aKd Reviceatcbw DRAFT W44iet t4t 2077 - 2020 Ckil" CITY OF CoILEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Adopting Ordinance (Insert once approved.) MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Table of Contents Adopting Ordinance Table of Contents Acknowledgements MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 Section 1— Introduction • Introduction • Mission and Vision Statements • Why Parks, Recreation Programs and Open Space Matter • Projected 2020 Accomplishments Section 2 — Current Conditions and Trends iv 1 2 4 7 • 2003 Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Master Plan 10 • Population and Growth Profile 13 • Current Recreation, Parks and Open Space System 18 Section 3 - Preferred Conditions • Relationship to The Comprehensive Plan 33 • Needs Assessment 33 • Goals 55 • Strategies 56 • Framework Overview 59 (tiri4 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN 2011- 2020 CITY OF COI LEGE STATION Section 4 — Implementation • Policies, Regulations, and Standards 67 • Plans and Studies 67 • Partnerships 68 • Funding 68 • Facility and Program Development and Management 70 • Implementation and Coordination Roles 70 • Actions 71 • Monitoring, Evaluating, and Updating 76 Appendices Appendix A — Detailed Socio -Economic Demographic Information 78 Appendix B — Detailed Park System Inventory 79 Appendix C— Detailed Recreation Program Information 112 Appendix D — Detailed Budgetary Information 114 Appendix E — Adopted Parkland Dedication Ordinance 128 Appendix F — Detailed Needs Assessment Information 136 (VP.. COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011 - 20I0 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Acknowledgements The City of College Station Parks and Recreation Master Plan was prepared by the Parks and Recreation Department in partnership with the Planning & Development Services Department. The preparation of this Plan would not have been possible and its implementation will not be successful without the residents of the City of College Station and the following individuals who contributed input and insight into the development of the City vision and the plan goals and strategies: City Council Nancy Berry, Mayor Blanche Brick, Council Member Place 1 Jess Fields, Council Member Place 2 Karl Mooney, Council Member Place 3 Katy -Marie Lyles, Council Member Place 4 Julie Shultz, Council Member Place 5 Dave Ruesink, Council Member Place 6 John Crompton, Former Council Member Place 1 Dennis Maloney, Former Council Member Place 3 Jana McMillan, Former Council Member Place 5 City Manager's Office David Neeley, City Manager Kathy Merrill, Assistant City Manager Jason Stuebe, Assistant to the City Manager Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Gary Erwin, Chair George Jessup, Vice -Chair Billy Hart Gerard Kyle Susan Fox Douglas Becker Shane Wendel Jon Denton Millie Burrell 4er-4% CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Planning & Zoning Commission Scott Shafer, Chair Craig Hall Mike Ashfield Bo Miles Planning & Zoning Commission, Continued Doug Slack Hugh Stearns Jodi Warner Parks and Recreation Department Staff David Schmitz, Director Pete Vanecek, Senior Park Planner Pamela Springfield, Administrative Support Supervisor Amanda Putz, Staff Assistant Planning & Development Services Bob Cowell, Jr., AICP CNU-A, Director Venessa Garza, Greenways Program Manager Matthew Hilgemeier, Staff Planner Michael Trevino, GIS Technician MASTER PLAN 2011-2020 Cm' OF COLFFl:F STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PAN, 2011- 2020 Section 1— Introduction The Parks and Recreation Master Plan identifies the City's parks and recreation needs for the next ten years and provides guidance, goals, strategies, and actions on how to best address those needs. The Master Plan lays the groundwork for the identification and implementation of policy change, capital projects, operational and administration change, and recreation programming. The Master Plan is rooted in the Community Vision established by the residents of College Station, is consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan, is responsive to the current budgetary context, and is aligned with contemporary best practices in parks and recreation facilities and program delivery. The approach undertaken in the development of this Plan is one that: • Provides an opportunity to view the parks and recreation system within the overall context of the City's delivery of services and meet resident needs. (Lkir"P*4 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER Ptah, 2011-2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION • Focuses goals, strategies, and actions to provide services that directly meet the needs of the residents. • Allows needs to be identified and evaluated comprehensively. • Allows for the allocation of limited resources (property, staff, and fiscal) to their highest and best use. • Allows for incremental and strategic improvements and changes to the parks and recreation system.' This approach focuses on understanding who uses the City's parks and recreation system, what the current system consists of and its current condition, and what future needs may exist. This approach also identifies how this Master Plan relates to the City's other plans and to the City's future growth and development trends. Finally, this Plan identifies specific strategies and actions to meet needs and implement necessary change. This section of the Plan highlights the Community Vision, the Parks and Recreation Department Mission, acknowledges the many individuals and organizations that have been involved in the creation of this Plan, highlights why parks and recreation programs are important to College Station, and provides the organizational arrangement of the Plan. Finally, this section concludes with a brief overview of what successful implementation of this Plan will achieve by the Year 2020. Mission and Vision Statements The City of College Station has adopted the following as its community Vision Statement: College Station, the proud home of Texas A&M University and heart of the Research Valley, will remain a vibrant, forward -thinking, knowledge-based community which promotes the highest quality of life for its citizens by ... Ensuring safe, tranquil, clean, and healthy neighborhoods with enduring character; Increasing and maintaining the mobility of College Station citizens through a well planned and constructed inter -modal transportation system; Expecting sensitive development and management of the built and natural environment; Supporting well planned, quality, and sustainable growth; Valuing and protecting our cultural and historical community resources; Developing and maintaining quality cost-effective community facilities, infrastructure and services which ensure our City is cohesive and well-connected; and, Pro -actively creating and maintaining economic and educational opportunities for all citizens. IAdapted from Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenwav Guidelines, National Recreation and Park Association, and the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration. Orff' CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 College Station will continue to be among the friendliest and most responsive of communities and a demonstrated partner in maintaining all that is good and celebrated in the Brazos Valley. It will continue to be a place where Texas and the world come to learn, live, and conduct business. The mission statement of College Station's Parks and Recreation Department is: "To provide a diversity of facilities and leisure services which are geographically and demographically accessible to our citizens." 4ff' CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Why Parks, Recreation Programs, and Open Space Matter in College Station There are many and varied reasons that parks, open space, and recreation programs are important components to the success of the City and to the lives of its many residents. These reasons range from the esoteric — the role parks and open space play in the physical growth pattern of the City to the very practical — locations for children to play and for adults to remain active and healthy. Recent surveys and focus groups of City residents noted their belief that parks, open space, and recreation programs play a critical role in the prevention of youth crime, enhancing real estate values, and improving health within the community. These same respondents indicated a desire to focus on greening the City, improving the City's network of trails, continuing high levels of maintenance for parks and facilities, and continuing to offer high-quality youth -oriented programs. Further, these same respondents (nearly 90%) indicated a preference for maintaining or increasing funding for parks, open space, and recreation programs. Recent voter -approved funding initiatives for additional park development, open space acquisition, and recreation programs further validate the significance residents place on parks, open space, and recreation in College Station. For the purposes of this overview, a brief explanation of the role parks, open space, and recreation programs can play in neighborhood and community character, property value and tax revenue enhancement, and health and wellness will be provided. Neighborhood and Community Character Parks have, and are expected to continue to play, an integral role in the character of neighborhoods and the City as a whole. (*ff" CM' OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 Since its founding, neighborhoods within College Station and the very pattern of the City itself, has been greatly influenced by the location and design of its parks and open space. The City's first park (Thomas Park) was established in 1938, the same years as the City's incorporation. Thomas Park's central location within the surrounding neighborhood established much of this neighborhood's unique character, impacted its development pattern, and provided ready access to recreation opportunities. Similar patterns of development can be found throughout the City in neighborhoods as diverse as Oakwood with Brison Park, Edelweiss with Edelweiss Park, Lincoln Street Neighborhood with the Lincoln Center and W.A. Tarrow Park, and Pebble Creek with Lick Creek Park. The fact is that for essentially all of its history, the City of College Station has been a city of neighborhoods built around parks and open space networks. The recently updated Comprehensive Plan envisions nothing less in the future. The plan is built around a land use concept that results in places of distinction, that is, neighborhoods of enduring character, corridors and districts with unique natural and man-made features, preserved rural areas, and a context sensitive mobility system. Parks and open space are critical to this vision. The Comprehensive Plan establishes the following as the goal for the City's future parks and recreation system — a diversity of parks, greenways, and the arts for the leisure and recreation as well as for the entertainment, education, and culture to achieve a high quality of life for all residents and visitors. Property Value and Tax Revenue Enhancement Parks and open space have played a significant role in increasing the value and marketability of property in the City and are expected to do so into the future. One of the many benefits associated with the parks and open space provided in College Station has been the increase in property values near such areas. Extensive research has been conducted nation-wide demonstrating that properties located near parks and open_space benefit with higher property values, which in turn also typically result in higher tax revenues to the City. SingN•F n&ty Prop*Ay Assessed Value (2009) vir% CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 One such study in the Dallas -Fort Worth area demonstrated a 20% premium for properties located within 100- 200 feet of a park. Even properties located as far as 1,500 feet from a park saw an increase in values. Further, parks and open space are a highly desired amenity by many, increasing the marketability of new developments, providing a benefit to those developing and marketing such projects. Local examples of this dynamic can be seen throughout the City. Properties fronting on Thomas or Brison Park, properties backing along the protected open space of Lick Creek Park, and the entire Wolf Pen District are but a few examples of local property values that benefit substantially from their proximity to parks or open space. One of the most effective ways for the City to increase its tax revenues is by taking steps that add value to existing properties. This is seen every time the City constructs a new road through open land or extends a sewer line to a property. A very cost-effective way to realize such increases is through the protection of open space, especially those that offer recreation opportunities with limited maintenance responsibilities — such as urban forests, greenways, etc. Health and Wellness The number, design, and location of parks and recreation facilities play a significant role in the rate of physical activity, which itself is a major contributor to the health and wellness of children and adults. Regular physical activity increases life expectancy, reduces the risk of obesity and many health-related issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that nation-wide an estimated 17% of children and adolescents are obese. Studies indicate that children that are obese are far more likely to become adults that are obese. The CDC estimates that between 1998 and 2000, the State of Texas spent $5.3 Billion on obesity related medical expenses. The CDC reports that the design of neighborhoods and communities that result in less walkability, the lack of sidewalks and bicycle facilities, and lack of access to safe places to play are also major contributors to low rates of physical activity by adults and children. (tirg CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Parks provide amenities such as playgrounds, trails, and athletic fields that encourage physical activity. The structured and regular programming of these parks and other City facilities for activities such as organized sports and after school care help ensure the opportunities to engage in physical activities are maximized. National surveys indicate that nearly 90% of all Americans participate in at least some form of outdoor recreation annually. In College Station, recent surveys and focus groups indicate that nearly 40% of residents visit a City park and nearly 34% use a walking or biking trail once a week or more. National studies indicate that park use and physical activity increases as parks are located in closer proximity to residences. The same studies indicate that the communities that have more park facilities also have populations reporting more physical activity levels. Further, these studies indicate that organized recreation programs, good park maintenance, and specific types of facilities (such as playgrounds and basketball courts), increase physical activities, especially among children. Projected 2020 Accomplishments Through the implementation of this Plan, the City of College Station proposes to do the following by 2020: • Continue to use parks and open space to define the character of neighborhoods, corridors, districts, and therefore the entire City; • Retain accreditation status with the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA); • Add neighborhood parkland as needed to continue to provide at least 3.5 acres of neighborhood parkland for every 1,000 residents; • Add community parkland as needed to continue to provide at least 3.5 acres of community parkland for every 1,000 residents; • Complete all voter -approved capital projects; • Develop Southeast Community Park on Rock Prairie Road and acquire land for a new Community park in the Southwest portion of the City; • Increase the amount of parkland and open space located in close proximity (<1,500 feet) to residences; • Increase the number of trees planted and preserved in existing parks, existing and new City facilities, and along city streets; • Renovate and upgrade existing neighborhood parks to intergenerational standards; • Increase and enhance pedestrian and bicycle connectivity to and between parks and open space; (kir' CM" OE COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION • Develop a community center; MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 • Fully implement the Green Parks and Recreation Program (waste reduction and recycling, water conservation, land uses, air quality, and energy conservation); • Develop a Park Enterprise Fund and other sources of revenue to sustain recreation program and facility enhancements; • Enhance partnerships with private development interests and other public entities in the provision of park, open space, and recreation offerings; and, • Increase the diversity of park types and develop design guidelines and standards for each. Brazos Valley Worldfest at Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater 01' CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Macro PLAN, 2011- 2020 Section 2 — Current Conditions and Trends College Station is one of the most desirable communities in the Nation to live, work, and raise a family. The presence and quality of the City's parks and recreation system and programs is a critical contributor to this desirability. The City's parks are regularly mentioned by residents and visitors as one of the most significant aspects of the quality of life experienced in College Station. Every year thousands of residents and visitors participate in cultural and athletic events offered by the City through its recreation program. These successes have not happened by accident but rather are the result of sound planning, strong community support, and skillful management. The information included in this and the following sections, is intended to provide some insight into the context used in the development of this Plan. It is intended to provide a brief summary of the most recent parks and 411)(4114111 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 CITY OF COLLEGE S1Ar1ON recreation planning efforts by the City, the current demographic profile of the City and projections for the future, the current parks and recreation system, current funding of the parks and recreation system and projections for the future, and finally levels of service used in the development of successful recreation programs. Each of these items, when combined provides both a snapshot of where the City finds itself today and a glimpse into what the future may hold. 2003 Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Master Plan In 2003, the City adopted the current Recreation, Parks, and Open Space Master Plan. The purpose of the Plan was to both update the 1999 Master Plan and to build upon the City's Comprehensive Plan, adopted in 1997. As with other planning efforts, the Master Pian identified goals and objectives and established the groundwork for projects and programs to deliver the City's parks and recreation program through 2012. The Master Plan anticipated a population increase of around 31,000 (from 70,000 to 101,000) from 2003 to 2012. Further, the Plan anticipated that most development associated with this population increase would occur south of the then -existing City limits and within low to medium density developments. The current population estimate for College Station is nearly 95,000 and is projected to reach approximately 97,000 by 2012. It would therefore appear that the 2003 Master Plan overestimated the population growth. Further, later revisions to population estimates actually placed the 2003 population estimate at approximately 78,000 rather than the Master Plan estimate of 70,000. Therefore, it appears that the population increase between 2003 and 2012 is more likely around 19,000 versus the 2003 Plan estimate of 31,000. Development has indeed, as planned, occurred in a fairly low-density pattern and to the south. In 2003, the City had nearly 1,300 acres of parkland. For a variety of reasons, the acreage associated with Lick Creek Park and Veterans Park along with the campus -based student population is excluded from the City's calculation of parkland per 1,000 residents. The Master Plan therefore identified this ratio as 8.92 acres per 1,000 residents (531.85 acres for 59,612 residents). Based on the aforementioned revised population estimates, this ratio may actually have been closer to 6.82 acres per 1,000 residents. Regardless, the Plan established an objective of no fewer than 7 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents by 2012. It should be noted that the 1997 City Comprehensive Plan actually identified a preferred ratio of 10.5 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents. The Master Plan anticipated, based on the desired ratio, that nearly 174 additional acres of parkland would be needed by 2012. The Master Plan identified the following strategic goals: • Develop a system of parks, recreation facilities, open space, and leisure services to meet the needs of an expanding community. • Maintain high quality parks and recreation facilities at a high standard. • Develop greenbelts to connect parks and residential areas. The Master Plan included a survey of the community to aid in determining the strategic goals and more specific objectives and actions. Additionally, the Plan included a review of the participation rates of the many facilities CITY OF CoiLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PIAN, 2011- 2020 and programs maintained and operated by the City. This review was also compared against nationally -adopted standards to identify current deficiencies and future needs. These efforts yielded a series of priority strategies and actions needed to achieve the stated goals and to meet the community's needs. The following represent the most significant of these strategies and actions noted in the Plan: • Need for additional softball fields — these were anticipated to be met through continued development of the Veterans Athletic Park; • Need for additional soccer fields, especially youth fields — these were anticipated to be met through continued development of Veterans Athletic Park; • Need for new indoor recreation facilities, specifically a new community center — this need was anticipated to be met through conversion of the Conference Center (jointly with CSISD following construction of a City Convention Center) and through expansion of the Lincoln Center; • Need for additional recreation trails — these were anticipated to be met in Veterans Athletic Park, Lick Creek Park, a new community park along Carters Creek, completion of the Wolf Pen Creek trails, and through implementation of the City's Greenways Master Plan and Bike Trail Master Plan; • Need for additional natural areas, especially greenways along the City's streams — these were anticipated to be met in areas identified in the City's Greenways Master Plan; • Need for additional neighborhood parks, especially in new development areas and in currently built-up areas lacking facilities — these were anticipated to be met through use of the City parkland dedication program and bond proceeds; • Need to enhance existing neighborhood parks to meet inter -generational needs — these were anticipated to be met through the addition of benches, shade structures, lighting, etc in various parks using parkland dedication ordinance and bond proceeds; and • Need for the development of a new community park — this need was anticipated to be met with the development of a 250 acre site on Rock Prairie Road and protection of the greenway along Lick Creek. With the benefit of hindsight, we can determine, nine years into the ten-year Master Plan, how the City has done in implementing the Plan. During the life of the Master Plan, the City has: • Accommodated 17,000 new residents and maintained a parkland to resident ratio of 7.5 acres of parkland for every 1,000 residents; • Three additional softball fields were added through Phase II of the Veterans Athletic Park Master Plan, for a total of 13 (of the identified 15 needed) softball fields in the City ; • Three soccer fields were added through Phase II of the Veterans Athletic Park Master Plan, for a total of 22 (of the identified 27 needed) soccer fields in the City; • The number of community centers remained at two (of the identified 4 needed); • Eleven walking trails were added resulting in a total of 34 (of the identified 41 needed) trails existing in the City. Additionally, bike lanes, sidewalks, and multi -use paths have been added and the City's plans for bicycle and pedestrian facilities have been combined into a recently updated Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan; Ori'" Crn' of COI LEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 • An additional 349 acres of protected natural areas have been added to the City through the Greenways acquisition program, for a total of 624 acres of protected greenways in the City; • Eight neighborhood parks (88 additional acres) were added for a total of 34 parks totaling 321 acres; • The number of community parks remained at eight, totaling nearly 300 acres; • The City owns 118 acres of undeveloped parkland, awaiting development as neighborhood parks, and • The City added intergenerational components (shade shelters, benches, lights, etc) in a number of existing parks. In 2008, College Station voters approved more than $12 Million for parks and recreation improvements to be implemented over the subsequent seven years. The approved projects are expected to result in an additional neighborhood park, various neighborhood park improvements, expansion of one of the existing community centers, improvements to existing athletic fields, improvements to existing trails, development of a skate park, acquisition of additional neighborhood parkland, and the development of an environmental education center. While much has been accomplished through the Master Plan, particular areas of concern that should be highlighted include: • Continued need for both the development of a new community park and also the acquisition of land for another future community park; • Continued challenges with meeting the operations and maintenance needs of parks, recreation programs, and facilities; • Increasing trend toward larger parks not integrated into neighborhoods placing residents at a greater distance from parks and recreation opportunities; • Continued need for additional community centers; and • Continued need for athletic fields, especially soccer fields. Aerial views of Stephen C. Beachy Central Park and Veterans Park and Athletic Complex. CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Population and Growth Profile MASTER PIAN, 2011-2020 The City of College Station is located in Brazos County, approximately equidistant between Houston and Austin (see MAP A, next page). It was incorporated in 1938 and currently covers an area of nearly 50 square miles. The City's population estimate as of January 2011 is 94,6402. For planning purposes, this document does not count or include the estimated 10,000 students living on campus at Texas A&M University (TAMU). This is due to the availability of recreation programs and facilities provided by TAMU. Therefore, throughout this document the population estimate of 84,640 is used for many of the calculations. The history of College Station as a community dates to the founding of the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas (now Texas A&M University) in 1876 as a land grant institution. Approximately 10,000 of the 49,129 students enrolled in the fall 2010 semester at Texas A&M University live on campus, while the majority of students live off campus in College Station or in adjacent Bryan, Texas. Before the City's incorporation, several neighborhoods developed around the perimeter of the campus, including Northgate (the principal commercial area in the early years of the community), Eastgate/College Hills (mostly residential, with some commercial development), and the Southside neighborhood, where many of the City's historically -significant homes and structures are located. Population Growth Through the 1970s, the majority of new growth in College Station continued to be located adjacent to Texas A&M University. Due to the physical constraints of the City of Bryan to the north, a ridge line to the west, and Carter Creek to the east, the City's 1980 Comprehensive Plan directed future growth to the south of existing development. By the 1990s, the City's growth mirrored that of the University. The University's student population exceeded 40,000, making it one of the largest campuses in the country. As College Station moves forward, its' challenge is to continue to encourage quality growth, while expanding forms of residential and non-residential development that are less dependent on a university -based economy. The direction of future growth is likely to continue to be to the south of existing development. Growth Issues College Station's population has increased steadily, with the most prolific decade being the 1970s. In those ten years, the annual rate of growth was 11.1%. In the 1980-90 time period, the combined rate of population growth in College Station was 40.7% (average 4.1% per annum), compared to 24.1% in Bryan (average 2.4% per annum). The 2000 census recorded the population of Brazos County at 152,415, including 67,890 residents of College Station and 65,660 residents of Bryan. This is likely an undercount, however, because most of the University's 2 Source: City of College Station Planning and Development Services Department, January 2011. Chir" Cm.'Qum, STArroN CO( LIGE STATION PAM AND REMEARON MAP A COLLEGE STATION LOCATION MAP Fort Worth Dallas Waco ii Madisonville Bryan COLLEGE STATI N Austin San Antonio 0 12.5 25 5o ils uston MASTEN PUN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE: STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PIAN, 2011- 2020 students give their hometown addresses to census takers, even though they live in Bryan/College Station for nine months of the year and utilize City services during that time. The 2010 population estimate released by the US Census Bureau showed the population of Brazos County to be 194,851. Socioeconomic and Demographic Profile TABLE 1 on the next page, contrasts College Station's 2000 socioeconomic and demographic profile with that of the County as a whole (including Bryan) and the State of Texas. In general, College Station residents are more highly educated than the County and State as a whole, reflecting the large number of University students and faculty who live in the City. In addition, per capita income is lower than County and State averages, reflecting the large number of University students who have only part-time employment. The impact of the University with regard to the age of residents is also apparent, with 35.6% of City inhabitants in the 20-24 age range (compared to 7.38% for the State as a whole). College Station also significantly exceeds the statewide average for residents in the 15-19 age range (17.9% compared to 7.86% for the State as a whole). Combining these two cohort groups, 53.5% of College Station's population is 15 to 24 years old, in contrast to a statewide average of 15.24%. The percentage of the City's population in these groups is likely to be even higher because, as mentioned previously, many of the University's students give their hometown addresses to census takers. The demographic make-up of College Station was an important consideration in the development of this Master Plan. College Station has significantly fewer racial/ethnic minorities compared to the County and the State. The percentage of residents of Hispanic origin, for example, is significantly lower in College Station (10%) and the County (17.88%) than in the State as a whole (31.99%). However, due to the large number of international students at Texas A&M University, the community has a very diverse culture with over 75 nationalities represented. 53.5% of College Station's population is 15 to 24 years old, in contrast to a statewide average of 15.24%. Oirff.*44 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION TABLE 1 COMPARISON OF COLLEGE STATION, BRAZOS COUNTY, AND TEXAS DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILES* (Base year 2000 except as indicated) CHARACTERISTICS Sex' Percent Male Percent Female COLLEGE STATION BRAZOS COUNTY 2 TEXAS a 51.10 48.90 50.50 49.50 49.65 50.35 Education Percent High School Graduates 93.80 81.30 75.50 Percent College Graduates 58.10 37.00 23.20 Employment Information ° Percent Unemployed 1.60 1.50 4.22 Income Per Capita Income (1999) $15,170 $16, 212 $19,617 Percent of Persons in Poverty 37.40 26.90 15.40 Race/Ethnicity (%) Anglo 80.50 66.79 53.11 Black 5.40 10.80 11.61 Hispanic 10.00 17.88 31.99 Other 4.10 4.53 3.29 Population by Age (%) < 15 12.10 11.52 2.54 15 - 19 17.90 12.88 7.86 20 - 24 35.60 22.87 7.38 25 - 34 13.00 14.55 15.16 35 - 44 8.30 11.41 15.93 45 - 54 6.00 8.64 12.52 55 - 59 2.10 2.98 4.30 60 - 64 1.40 2.21 3.37 65+ 3.50 6.71 9.94 Median Age 21.90 23.60 32.30 *This demographic profile from the U.S. Bureau of the Census does not exclude the 10,000 students living on campus. ' Source: U.S. Bureau of the Census, http://venus.census.gov/cdrom/lookup/908233823 (10/12/98). 2Source: http://txsdc.tamu.edu/data/census2000. 3Source: http://txsdc.tamu.edu/data/census2000 Source: Texas Employment Commission, February 2000 data, www.twc.state.tx.us (Labor Market information). 04-ff' CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Population Projections COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MAsrER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Population projections through 2020 (the limit of the 2010 Plan revision) are, by necessity, somewhat speculative. The City's Comprehensive Plan was completed in May 2009 and provides projections for population through the year 2027 (see TABLE 2, below). College Station has recently had an average annual population increase of approximately 3%, a rate expected to slow slightly in the next several years. TABLE 2 POPULATION PROJECTIONS — 2015, 2020, 2027 2015 2020 2027 College Station Projected Population 103,112 113,665 128,440 Source: City of College Station Comprehensive Plan Growth Patterns The Future Land Use and Character Map, adopted as part of the City's Comprehensive Plan is based on an analysis of the City's existing natural systems, development patterns, infrastructure, and interviews with public officials, appointed officials, key stakeholders, and the public. Alternative scenarios were presented in community workshops and an extensive public participation process followed. The Future Land Use and Character Map is conditioned on political and geographic constraints to growth. The City's northern growth is limited by the political boundary with the City of Bryan. Development to the west is limited by the Brazos River and by a ridge line, which would require the installation of water and sewer services. While there are some limited utility extensions planned for this area, major infrastructure improvements are not currently anticipated. The main channel of Carters Creek forms the City's eastern border and is also a limiting factor. As a result of these political and geographical constraints, most future growth for the City of College Station is anticipated to occur in its southern sector. This assumption is supported by developers' commitments and inquiries to City officials. MAP I on page 49, illustrates population growth expected in each park zone through 2020. This shows expected growth to the south, along with increasing densities in established park zones throughout the City. CITY Of COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Current Recreation, Parks, and Open Space System Park Land MASTER PIAN, 2011- 2020 College Station's first park was established in 1938, the year of the City's incorporation. A donation of 16 acres was dedicated as a park to recognize Mable Clare Thomas' community work. Although the first City Council made provisions for the creation of a Parks Board in May 1939, the City's second park was not established until 1947, with the purchase of land that would eventually become Brison Park. In 1953, the City's Mayor established a Recreation Board funded from annual City appropriations. The Board's duties included administering the parks and developing a recreational program with an emphasis on youth activities. The wide range of recreational programs offered at the time, however, depended heavily on facilities provided by Texas A&M. The City of College Station currently has 1,198.10 acres of developed park land and 118.01 undeveloped acres, for a total of 1,316.11 park acres. Included in that total is the 29.7 -acre Hensel Park, which serves as a Community Park for residents in the Northgate area (Park Zone 1). Although the park is owned and operated by Texas A&M University, the City provides support and assistance for this park. While the Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for the 18.5 -acre College Station Cemetery, the 56.5 - acre Memorial Cemetery of College Station and Aggie Field of Honor, and the 2.3 -acre Conference Center, they are not included in the total acreage above. See TABLE 3 (next page) for the comprehensive PARK SYSTEM CLASSIFICATION AND ACREAGE. The College Station Memorial Cemetery and Aggie Field of Honor Information Center, Committal Shelter, and Spirit Gate are shown here. Construction of the new facilities were completed and dedicated in July 2009. The College Station Conference Center was originally built as a school in 1949. The Center, acquired by the City of College Station in 1980, now serves individual or group rentals with room facilities that can accommodate 10-400 people. CITY OF C(LLEGE. STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION TABLE 3 2010 PARK SYSTEM CLASSIFICATION AND ACREAGE MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 PARK ZONE MINI NEIGHBORHOOD COMMUNITY REGIONAL OTHER Anderson 6 8.94 Bee Creek B 26.5 Billie Madeley 2 5.14 Brison 6 9.20 Brothers Pond 5 16.12 Carter's Crossing ** 4 7.34 Castlegate 13 8.26 Castlerock ** 10 5.86 Cove of Nantucket 12 3.92 Creek View ** 10 14.01 Crescent Pointe 4 5.00 Cy Miller 3 2.50 D.A. "Andy" Anderson Arboretum 6 17.00 Eastgate 2 1.80 Edelweiss 5 12.30 Edelweiss Gartens 10 13.60 Emerald Forest 8 4.59 Gabbard 6 10.67 Georgie K. Fitch 5 11.30 Hensel (TAMU - owned) B 29.70 Jack & Dorothy Miller 5 10.00 John Crompton 7 15.26 Lemon Tree 6 15.40 Lick Creek 11 515.54 - Nature Lions 2 1.50 Longmire 5 4.16 Luther Jones 6 1.80 Merry Oaks 2 4.60 Northgate ** 1 1.59 Oaks 2 7.50 Parkway 2 1.90 Pebble Creek 11 10.20 Raintree 4 13.00 Reatta Meadows ** 10 3.00 Richard Carter 2 7.14 Sandstone 8 15.21 Sonoma ** 10 7.16 Southeast ** C 66.68 Southern Oaks 10 14.49 Southwest ** 6 9.42 Southwood Athletic B 44.70 Steeplechase 5 9.0 Stephen C. Beachy Central C 47.20 Cu(*kr' Y OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 PARK ZONE MINI NEIGHBORHOOD COMMUNITY REGIONAL OTHER Summit Crossing ** 4 8.81 Thomas C 16.10 University 2 10.20 Veterans Athletic Complex 4 150.00 W.A. Tarrow B 21.26 Windwood 4 1.37 Wolf Pen Creek C 47.17 Woodcreek 8 6.60 Woodland Hills 9 12.46 10.87 14.40 321.80 272.06 299.31 232.63 665.54 665.54 17.00 17.00 TOTAL ACRES Developed Parks — 43 (1,198.10 Acres) ** Undeveloped Park Sites - 8 (118.01 Acres) 1.59 49.74 66.68 **Park sites that are presently undeveloped. The College Station Cemetery (18.5 Acres), the College Station Memorial Cemetery and Aggie Field of Honor (56.50 Acres), and the Conference Center (2.3 acres), are not included in acreage totals The City park service area has been divided into 29 Neighborhood Park Zones and four Community Park Zones for planning purposes as shown in MAP B, page 21 and MAP C, page 22. Neighborhood Zone boundaries generally follow City limits, major thoroughfares, sewersheds, or creeks. However, the outer zones do not necessarily follow the City's boundaries. In some cases, they extend into the City's Extra Territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) in anticipation of future growth and annexation of these areas. The Community Zones include land in both the City and the ETJ and generally divide the area into four roughly proportional quadrants. The main campus of Texas A&M University is not included in any of these park zones. The City of College Station generally uses the classification system promulgated by the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA) for parks and open space. The categories of parks and open space currently used by College Station are: Mini -park A mini -park is used to address limited, isolated, or unique recreational needs generally reached by residents on foot. Many school and church playgrounds often serve as de facto mini -parks. NRPA recommends that mini - parks be between 2,500 square feet and one acre in size, although technically, any park smaller than five acres may be considered a mini -park. The City of College Station currently has seven mini -parks totaling 11.67 acres. Six of those mini -parks (10.87 acres) are developed (see TABLE 3, page 19-20). The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board has had a policy not to develop additional mini -parks under five acres, unless it is in an urban area or other special districts due to costs associated with their maintenance and operations. Cr' nor Couty.t Sysnoy, COUSIN STATION PAN. AND°ClitAlION MAP B COLLEGE STATION NEIGHBORHOOD PARK ZONE MAP (Adopted by Parks and Recreation Advisory Board June 10, 2008); (Adopted by City Council October 23, 2008) PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN Neighborhood Park Zones • BURLE8oN COUNTY GRIMES COUNTY Neighboi hood Palk Zones COCS Paiks COC,City Limit, Bryan City Limits *"n,00und°' Texas Counties MASTFR PIA n, 2011 - 2020 CrrvnrC mcr STKfON CIXL,OT STATION PAA. AND RLLRG noN MAP C COLLEGE STATION COMMUNITY PARK ZONE MAP (Adopted by City Council February 26, 2009) PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN Community Park Zones i\1/4 e i , j c_ . `, a • A BURLESON COUNTY GRIMES COUNTY Community Park Zones COOS Pauks COCS City Limits Bryan City Limits Brazos BourMary Texas Counties MASI TR PUN, 2011 • 2020 f CrrVOPCAlICIP STA7NYI COUSIN STATION PARRS AND N(CREA 11070 MAP D PARK SYSTEM MAP PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN Park System \ ...,076• AS's 44 t¢_7 -27 fi 13 dt 87 11. A{^ 21 M bs a 28 1 I ON01.4711 PARR 11. WINOW000 PIAS 11' S0UINW000 Alma IK PARK 31. 4\46\90 PAR4 2- I1412M1010RI57 PA RA 22. MIN1771 PARK 11• W001XR114 PARR 41- W.4.14440W PARR 1. SAN0970111 PMR 13. W011 Pt CR2l7 PARR 23, IA47 A 00WORT OMR PMR 13377771117 RIR( 47(7117741 PARR 44. 10RR (10\11011 PMR 4 1R41Vf!SRY PARR 1•. OAKS PARK 74-I0l1WI'51 PMR M. OCR 2977 PARR 11 716)7443 PAIR Is. O'M1111R PARK 35. 20l1W115SG*R77NSPAR4 - 6 PARKWAY PARK 11' Olt (.77711 MAX A 0760777011 I6 W000UNO RIO PAR{ 31- CASI1PGAII PARR •1 P116751477117 PARR I AMR7V0AR50ASR 17. 171470741444 PMR 1I- (047 Of NANIOCKII7AR4 47, 10NN17N0MS 6. 7004704477747474 I6. 417771407477 24 1111171440!111 PARK 1 LION7R10Nh PMA 19. 6700171 fi 1(11 PARK H 145514RK 14, C41M1111P(IN77A474 50 7451171014 PARK 10 4110145011PARK 20 11057775 PARK 77 ORISON PARK 40 VS 17MNS PARA 6211N72116 COMA. 51 'RASA PARK 41- !AMTGA II PA74 GRIMES COUNTY COCS Parks nCOCS City Limits Blyan City Limits Stems Boundary Texas Counties M Existing Palk M Undeveloped Park MASTER PIAN, 2011 -2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Neighborhood Park COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 This category serves as the recreational and social focus of a neighborhood, permitting both active and passive uses, with users generally arriving on foot or bicycle. NRPA recommends that neighborhood parks be a minimum of five acres, with five to ten acres being optimal. College Station currently has 34 neighborhood parks totaling 321.80 acres (see TABLE 3, page 19-20). Current City policy is to provide facilities for activities that focus on youth and families (such as soccer, softball, and baseball, which necessitate Targe playing fields). Neighborhood parks in College Station are generally five to fifteen acres in size. Community Park Community parks focus on meeting community-based recreation needs, as well as preserving unique landscapes and open spaces, with visitors generally arriving by automobile or bicycle. In serving multiple neighborhoods, they provide many of the same types of facilities as neighborhood parks with the possible addition of swimming pools and community centers. While NRPA acknowledges that the size of community parks should be determined by desired usage, in general they should be between 30 and 50 acres. College Station currently has eight community parks totaling 299.31 acres - Central, Bee Creek, Hensel, Thomas, Southwood, W.A. Tarrow, Wolf Pen Creek, and Southeast Parks. Southeast Park, the newest community park of 66.68 acres, was purchased in 2002 to serve the future needs of south College Station, but is undeveloped at this time. Regional Natural Park Regional parks serve entire cities or regions. Activities available in regional parks may include picnicking, boating, fishing, swimming, camping, trail use, golfing, etc. Regional parks tend to be Targe (over 200 acres) and because of their nature, are usually not figured into the core park land provided by a city. College Station currently has one, 515.54 -acre natural area, regional park site - Lick Creek Park. Of note, there are no State or National parks within a twenty -mile radius of the City. The City of Bryan owns and operates the Lake Bryan Regional Park in north Brazos County. Regional Athletic Park Athletic or sports complexes typically consolidate heavily programmed athletic facilities for activities such as softball, baseball, and soccer into a few strategically located sites throughout the community. The locations of these facilities are important due to the traffic, lighting, and noise that are often associated with them. Southwood Athletic Park and Veteran's Park and Athletic Complex are the City's two current regional athletic parks totaling nearly 200 acres and including soccer, baseball, and softball fields. Recreation & Community Centers Recreation and community centers typically provide facilities for a range of recreation needs, such as gymnasiums, group activity rooms, and swimming pools. College Station currently has one 37,462 square -foot Recreation/Community Center (Lincoln Center) with a covered basketball pavilion and gymnasium utilized for youth activities and programmed indoor sports recreational programs. In addition, the Parks and Recreation (*ff" GUY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PIAN, 2011- 2020 Department inventory includes a 15,066 square -foot Conference Center and Annex, and one smaller 3,957 square -foot Community Center - Southwood Community Center (see TABLE 3, page 19-20). The City also utilizes multi-purpose buildings at schools for public indoor recreation programs. Recreation and Special Events Programming The City provides a wide range of programs, which serve not only College Station's population but also residents of Bryan and Brazos County. Aquatics programs include swim lessons, aquatic camps, water aerobics, and lifeguard training. Organized athletic leagues for adults and youth include basketball, flag football, kickball, softball, tennis, volleyball, and track and field. In Fiscal Year 2000, the Department introduced a surcharge on all athletic fees (excluding basketball and volleyball). The additional revenue collected is used for renovation and improvement of athletic fields and related facilities. A few of the projects which have been funded through this surcharge or Field Redevelopment Fee are: installation of remote lighting controllers, dugout covers, baseball and soccer field improvements, irrigation system replacement, and the rehabilitation of the softball complex entryway and scoreboards at the Central Park softball complex. Understanding that there were children in the community who have physical or mental limitations that might not allow them to successfully participate in existing youth athletic programs, the Department developed the Challenger Sports Series in 2002. The year-round Challenger series currently includes soccer, basketball, and bowling. Other sports may be added in the future. The desired outcome of this program is to provide an outlet for those who want to learn the basic fundamentals of athletic activities - have fun, improve physical skills, experience success, and feel special in a safe and controlled environment. The City sponsors a number of annual educational programs, celebrations, and joint events with local entities. The Arbor Day Celebration, Black History Month, Sister Cities Event, International Scholars Picnic, and a Certified Pool Operators Course are but a few examples. In association with the College Station Independent School District, the Parks and Recreation Department's XTRA Education program offers over 165 classes in leisure learning, including such fields as dance, the culinary arts, music and voice, and computers. The two entities also co-sponsor Kids Klub, an after-school enrichment program for children in grades pre- kindergarten through sixth, and a jointly operated natatorium at the College Station Middle School. There has been interest in the provision of new programs for those residents that are not currently being served. Requests have been received in recent years for diverse activities such as skateboarding; radio controlled model planes, cars, and boats; tackle football; disc golf; and cricket. This is a direct reflection of the growth and diversity of the community. (1/41r -"*1 COY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION TABLE 4 PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT SUMMARY OF FACILITIES MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 FACILITY NUMBER Adult Softball Fields 5 Amphitheater 1 Arboretum 1 Basketball Courts 26 (22 full courts, 4 half courts) Batting Cages 3 Cemeteries 2 Concession Stands 8 Conference Centers 1 Cricket Fields 1 Developed Parks 43 Disc Golf Courses 4 Dog Parks 2 Equestrian Trails, Entrance and Parking Area 1 (3.72 Miles) Exercise Stations 6 Fishing Ponds 5 Green Room at Wolf Pen Creek 1 Gymnasium 1 History Walk ("The America Mile") 1 Jogging/Walking Trails 34 Maintenance Shops 6 Nature Trails 10 Outdoor Plaza at Wolf Pen Creek 1 PARD Main Office in Stephen C. Beachy Central 1 Pavilions (Three in Hensel Park) 10 Picnic Units (Picnic Table and Barbeque Pit) 76 Play Units 56 Public Art 51 Public Library 1 Recreation Centers 2 Regional Athletic Park 1 (tric" CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 FACILITY NUMBER Regional Nature Park 1 Sand Volleyball Courts 8 Shelters/Gazebos 26 Soccer Fields 222 Softball Fields 12 lighted Splash/Spray Park 1 State Historic Sites/Markers 3 Swimming Pools and Bath Houses 33 Tennis Courts 274 (13 are at schools) Undeveloped Parks 8 Veterans Memorial Site 1 Walking Trails 34 Trails (Fifteen Miles) Water Feature 7 Youth Baseball Fields 9 Youth Softball Fields 8 1 Public art is located in Eastgate, Cy Miller (Police Station), Richard Carter, Veterans, and in Wolf Pen Creek Park. 2 Nine adult soccer fields at Veterans Park and Athletic Complex can be converted to eighteen youth fields. a Does not include the CSISD Natatorium. 4 Includes nine tennis courts at the High School and four at the Middle School. CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION TABLE 5 COLLEGE STATION PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT PARTICIPATION NUMBERS "' 2002, 2009, 2010* MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 PROGRAM RECREATION ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION NUMBERS 2002 2009 2010 Youth Athletic Participants: Basketball 639 821 855 Flag Football 423 505 441 Girls Softball 490 501 465 College Station Tsunamis Swim Team 226 196 226 Stroke Clinic 160 99 96 Punt, Pass & Kick Local 88 44 15 Youth Volleyball 119 383 459 Challenger Sports 40 100 127 Adult Athletic Teams: Softball 474 483 417 Kickball 100 25 34 Volleyball 10 74 97 Flag Football N/A 27 25 Aquatics: Number of visits annually (includes CSISD pool) 130,113 138,785 93,302** Total days that at least one pool is available during the year (includes CSISD pool). As of 2010, pools are closed one day per week — first time since 1974.** 334 334 313 Instructional: Tennis Lessons 381 364 320 Swim Lessons 2,235 1,278 2,214 Water Fitness 565 314 253 Educational: Xtra Education Class Participants 2,951 2,920 2775 Historic Services: Historic Lunch Lecture Series Participants 1,486 1,296 Senior Services: Senior Participants Served 9,432 11,092 * Participation numbers are based on the numbers reported in quarterly and year-end performance measures. Orke" CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 PARTICIPATION NUMBERS The community has always supported the City's efforts to offer an outdoor experience for a greater quality of life experience. This outdoor experience manifests itself by way of the numerous outdoor facilities that allow a user freedom of choice. They can choose to exercise passive options such as sitting on a park bench or walking their dog. Active options for outdoor experiences run the gamut from jogging to participation in organized athletic leagues such as soccer or baseball. Finally, the City provides the community with a wide range of entertainment ranging from music and cultural festivals, to a variety of musical concerts, including the highly successful Starlight Music Series held at the Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater. The wide range of entertainment offers College Station residents another stay -cation option. As the economy gets tighter, more and more people are looking for other stay-at-home entertainment opportunities. Open Space Network Much of the open space network that is present in the City consists of floodplain and private common areas owned by Homeowner and Property Owner Associations. Portions of the floodplain have been acquired by the City through its voter -approved Greenways Program. The City -owned properties are generally concentrated along the larger floodplains and are specially focused on the floodplain surrounding Carters Creek, Bee Creek, and Wolf Pen Creek. Other protected open space includes small areas of property containing endangered species habitat. Much of this is concentrated in the southern portion of the City near State Highway 6 and State Highway 40. Much of the protected open space exists in isolated pockets, so recent City efforts have focused on acquisitions that provide greater opportunity for connectivity. MAP E (next page) graphically portrays the location of the City -owned open space. PROGRAM RECREATION ACTIVITY 2002 2009 2010 Youth Services: Kids Klub (After school enrichment) 762 1,006 1020 Educational Activities 1,382 1,226 1,010 Teen Center Participants (includes members and participants in leisure and recreational activities, such as dances, socials, etc.) 11,083 17,212 15,669 Facilities: Lincoln Center Participants 68,189 82,862 79,077 Conference Center Participants 74,401 106,831 105,854 Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater Visits 48,800 184,575 199,091 EXTERNAL GROUPS' PARTICIPATION Baseball Baseball Seasons (One Association, Two Clubs) 1,000 2,000`- 2,000± Youth Soccer Fall and Spring, (One Association, Three Clubs) 1,363 2,650' 2,650± Adult Soccer Spring, Summer and Fall, One League 90±Teams 146' Teams 186'Teams Ultimate Frisbee Spring and Fall; One League N/A N/A 12 Teams The community has always supported the City's efforts to offer an outdoor experience for a greater quality of life experience. This outdoor experience manifests itself by way of the numerous outdoor facilities that allow a user freedom of choice. They can choose to exercise passive options such as sitting on a park bench or walking their dog. Active options for outdoor experiences run the gamut from jogging to participation in organized athletic leagues such as soccer or baseball. Finally, the City provides the community with a wide range of entertainment ranging from music and cultural festivals, to a variety of musical concerts, including the highly successful Starlight Music Series held at the Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater. The wide range of entertainment offers College Station residents another stay -cation option. As the economy gets tighter, more and more people are looking for other stay-at-home entertainment opportunities. Open Space Network Much of the open space network that is present in the City consists of floodplain and private common areas owned by Homeowner and Property Owner Associations. Portions of the floodplain have been acquired by the City through its voter -approved Greenways Program. The City -owned properties are generally concentrated along the larger floodplains and are specially focused on the floodplain surrounding Carters Creek, Bee Creek, and Wolf Pen Creek. Other protected open space includes small areas of property containing endangered species habitat. Much of this is concentrated in the southern portion of the City near State Highway 6 and State Highway 40. Much of the protected open space exists in isolated pockets, so recent City efforts have focused on acquisitions that provide greater opportunity for connectivity. MAP E (next page) graphically portrays the location of the City -owned open space. Oryar CAurcr STATION COu(Gt STATION PARKS AND R(CUARON MAP E CITY -OWNED OPEN SPACE PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN Open Space /** GRIMES COUNTY COCS Pat ks - COCS Orsmway F-11 COCB City Limits Bryan City L6nits Brazos Boundary Taxes Counties 'Kum PUN, 2011 -2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION System Funding COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN 2011- 2020 The Parks and Recreation Department's operating budget of $8,050,870 (FY 2010-11 — excluding X -TRA Education, Library Operations, and cemeteries) is approximately 3.4% of the City's total budget of $233,465,937. Currently, the Department has 88 full-time budgeted positions (out of a total City government staff of approximately 924 full-time equivalent positions). In 2003, the Department's operating budget was $5,956,270 (excluding X -TRA Education, Library Operations, and the cemetery), approximately 15% of the City's total budget. There were 72 full-time budgeted positions. The budget has grown by $2,094,600 or 26% and 16 budgeted positions since 2003. Total spending on parks and recreation services is currently $85.19 per capita (based on population estimate of 94,500). In 2003, per capita spending was $76.07. There has been an increase of 11% or $9.12. By ordinance, the City requires that residential development provide developed parkland with projects or fees in lieu. The intent of this ordinance is to ensure that parks and recreation needs associated with new development are primarily paid by the new residents creating the increased demand. The City recently increased the fees associated with neighborhood parks and added a fee for community parks to ensure that the funds collected were keeping pace with the costs of providing such facilities. Between 2003 and 2010, the City collected nearly $3.8 Million in parkland dedication fees in lieu of land dedication. These fees are in addition to land dedicated and parks developed concurrent with development, though this number has been relatively small in recent years. In 2010-11, it is projected that revenues collected by the City for recreation activities will be approximately $815,000 or approximately 10% of projected costs. In 2003, revenues collected were approximately $734,000, representing approximately 12% of estimated costs. APPENDIX D (page 114), includes the Department's organizational structure and provides a summary of the Department's Fiscal Year 2010-11 budget, with a breakdown of expenditures by classification and division. College Station's Stephen C. Beachy Central Park is a large community park that provides many opportunities for recreational activities. This pond is the site for many a fisherman throughout the year. The pond is stocked by the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department with trout during the cooler months, and with catfish in the spring and summer. CnY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Section 3 - Preferred Conditions Just as it is important to understand where we are today, we must have a sense of what our preferred future is to successfully develop the Master Plan. Preferred conditions are based on a combination of need, opportunity, and vision. The City's adopted Comprehensive Plan, the input from community members, and direction from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and the Planning & Zoning Commission provide the visionary elements of this preferred future. Opportunities are presented through development activities that occur over the next decade and also through the presence of the unique natural features found within College Station, such as forested and riparian areas. Needs are based upon current deficiencies and anticipated deficiencies as the City's population grows and changes. Each of these aspects will help define a preferred future, establish goals, and set strategies and actions for accomplishing such a future. CITY OF COLLEGE: STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PIAN, 2011- 2020 Relationship to The Comprehensive Plan As noted previously, the City's Comprehensive Plan focuses on the City's future as one of accommodating growth and expansion in a manner resulting in unique places of distinction. Parks and open space are integral to this future. As in the past 75 years, it is expected that parks and open space, will be one of the key determinants to the physical form of our many neighborhoods, special corridors and districts, and thus the City as a whole. Further, the Comprehensive Plan envisions a City where parks, greenways, and recreation programs play an integral role in improving the quality of life for the residents of College Station. Parks, open space, and recreation opportunities foster social, environmental, and health benefits by uniting families, building cultural diversity, promoting stewardship of natural resources, attracting business, enhancing property values, and offering places for a healthy lifestyle. Needs Assessment Adopted Standards and Levels of Service Most communities evaluate need and establish standards for levels of service following three approaches. One approach is the standards based approach, referencing adopted standards of the National Recreation and Park Association. The second approach is the demands based approach, referencing community-based input from such sources as surveys, focus groups, and task forces. The third approach is the resource based approach, referencing the natural and man-made features present in the community that may warrant protection or offer recreation opportunities. Standards -Based Considerations Parkland/Population Consideration: For a number of years, the City has had an objective of retaining at least seven acres of parkland per 1,000 residents while accommodating population growth. Using the population estimate of 84,500 City residents (94,500 residents minus the 10,000 students living on campus) and the 1,318 acres of parkland in the system, there is an average of 7.5 acres of parkland available for every 1,000 residents. This calculation excludes the two regional parks (Lick Creek Park and Veterans Park) and the arboretum. Using the same methodology, in 2003, there was an average of 8.92 acres of parkland available for every 1,000 residents. Since 2003, there has been a decrease of 1.42 acres of parkland for every 1,000 residents. Though this metric is best established by local preference, for comparison purposes, a recent study conducted by the Trust for Public Land found that the median value for U.S. cities of varying density, was approximately 13 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents. Further, a recent survey indicated that in Texas, acres of parkland per 1,000 ranged from a low of .84/1,000 in West University Place to a high of 53.47/1,000 in the Colony. Of 83 municipalities responding to the survey, only 15 communities had ratios of 7/1,000 or lower, including College Station.3 3Parkland Dedication Ordinances in Texas: A Missed Opportunity?, AgriLife Extension, Texas A&M University System. 4ff' CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PIAN, 2011-2020 The reduction in acres of parkland per 1,000 acres in recent years is likely due to several variables, but most certainly, the challenges associated with securing land for park development, the City's preference for fewer, larger parks, and concerns over the availability of funds to cover long-term operations and maintenance costs have resulted in a slower pace of park development. It is anticipated that these challenges are likely to remain in the future if a different approach is not pursued. Based on the afore -mentioned approach to establishing levels of service, if the City adds no additional parkland, it is projected that by 2020, the City will be nearly 60 acres deficient in neighborhood parkland and more than 90 acres deficient in community parkland, resulting in a decrease in the acres of parkland per 1,000 residents to a value of approximately 5.6 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents. As new development occurs further from the existing parks, if no additional parks are provided, residents will live greater distances from the City's parks. National Recreation and Park Association Standards To determine the appropriate amount and type of park land for College Station, this Master Plan utilizes standards developed by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), an independent, nonprofit organization which is the field's professional organization with a membership of over 23,000. Two of NRPA's publications, the 1983 Recreation, Park and Open Space Standards and Guidelines, and the 1996 Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Guidelines, were consulted in the preparation of area and facility concepts and standards for College Station. As described in the following, NRPA's 1983 publication includes specific acreage recommendations for various types of parks, although its 1996 guidelines encourages more flexibility in both size and design in line with unique local factors and desires. As noted in preceding portions of this Plan, NRPA recommends a community's park and recreation needs be met through a diversity of park types, most often in the form of mini -parks, neighborhood parks, community parks, regional parks, athletic complexes, and recreation/community centers. Other park types may include linear parks, natural or open space preserves, and historic sites. NRPA also highlights what types of recreational features should be present within various park types, though again acknowledging that specific features are best determined by local needs. Typically, features such as play units, picnic units, shelters, walking trails, and basketball courts will be placed in mini and neighborhood parks, while group pavilions, swimming pools, tennis courts, and competitive athletic fields will be placed in community or regional parks. The City of College Station is the primary provider of parks and public open space in College Station. Park and open space needs are most heavily influenced by the expectations of College Station residents for high quality park services, although the location of Texas A&M University within the City limits, the availability to the general public of park and recreation facilities owned by the College Station Independent School District, and the City's immediate proximity to the City of Bryan, are also important factors. Many of the park, recreation, and open space needs of Texas A&M students, faculty, and staff are met on campus via ball fields, sports courts, the student recreation center, and passive open spaces. The University also operates Hensel Park within the City limits, which is a joint -use facility for students and College Station ofp• CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 residents. However, it cannot be assumed that all of the University -related park and open space needs are being met on campus due to the distribution of University students, faculty, and staff throughout the area, and the demand for organized athletic leagues within the City. The proximity of College Station to the City of Bryan also impacts the provision of park, recreation, and open space services and facilities in College Station. Evidence from registrations in College Station's sports leagues suggests that many of the park and recreation needs of Bryan residents are not being met by their City government, and some are choosing to utilize facilities and services available in College Station. This potential impact of Bryan residents, however, is not considered to be as significant as the impact of Texas A&M students, faculty, and staff. The growing population of Brazos County also has a significant impact on College Station parks and its recreation programs. The growth of residential development in the Extra Territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) has been significant in the last few years and could have a significant effect on park and program utilization. Demand -Based Considerations A demand -based approach to determining levels of service seeks to determine the community -identified needs for recreation facilities and services through direct engagement of community residents. This assessment has, for this Plan occurred through various means. The Parks and Recreation Department has conducted, in partnership with the Public Policy Research Institute and the Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences at Texas A&M University surveys of area residents. The City has engaged directly with the residents in the preparation of the City's Comprehensive Plan (2007-2009), the Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan (2009-2010), the Central College Station Neighborhood Plan (2009-2010), and the Eastgate Neighborhood Plan (2010-2011) aiding in understanding the parks and recreation needs of residents throughout the City. Additionally, focus groups, community meetings, and public hearings were conducted in the preparation of this Plan. These efforts have systematically collected and assessed community opinion on the parks and recreation needs of College Station from 1996 to 2011. The results have consistently indicated the following: • Parks and recreation facilities and programs are highly valued and used by City residents and visitors to the community; • Continued provision of parks and recreation facilities and programs is strongly supported; • Need to keep parks and facilities well maintained is important to residents; • Need to meet intergenerational needs (that is parks, facilities, and programs that address needs of all age groups) is regularly mentioned by residents; • Need to green the City through the provision of trees, landscaping, etc in its parks, at its facilities, and along its streets is regularly mentioned by residents; • Need to provide additional walking and biking opportunities and stronger non -vehicular links to and between parks and facilities is important to residents; and, • Strong support to maintain or increase the current level of funding dedicated to provision of parks and recreation facilities and programs is regularly mentioned by residents. licif" CITY OF CCH -LEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Detailed results from the most recent comprehensive assessment can be found in APPENDIX F, and F-1. Resource -Based Considerations As with any community, College Station consists of various physical attributes that shape and constrain growth and development. Many of these same features represent opportunities for meeting the park and recreation needs of the community. The following provides a basic overview of the most significant resource-based considerations for this Plan. College Station lies in the coastal plains region of Texas with a favorable climate that offers warm summers and mild winters. The topography is relatively flat to gently sloping with elevation ranging from 200 feet to 366 feet above sea level. These conditions make College Station an ideal location for outdoor recreation throughout a considerable amount of the year. Hydrology and Floodplain Brazos County is made up of numerous streams that flow into the Navasota and Brazos River basins. illustrates the system that lies in and around the City of College Station and its floodplain. Bee Creek, Lick Creek, Wolf Pen Creek, and their tributaries (including Spring Creek and Alum Creek) flow into Carters Creek. Carters Creek and Peach Creek flow into the Navasota River, while White Creek flows into the Brazos River (see MAP F, next page). Floodplains Floodplains are flat or nearly flat land adjacent to streams or rivers that experience occasional or periodic flooding. Regulatory boundaries of these floodplains have been categorized by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help preserve their flood carrying capacity. They include 100 -year flood areas (i.e., 1% annual chance of a flood event or special flood hazard areas) and 500 -year flood areas (i.e., 0.2 annual chance of a flood event). There are approximately 3,962 acres of 100 -year flood areas within the College Station City limits and an additional 235 acres of 500 -year flood areas. Currently, 1,696 acres of 100 -year flood areas are preserved through agricultural zoning and an additional 462 acres are owned by the City of College Station. Riparian Areas Riparian areas are corridors of natural vegetation along streams. They create transitional zones between streams and the impacts of development. The benefits of these areas include floodplain and storm water management; stream bank stabilization; water quality protection; and wildlife and aquatic habitat protection. If a riparian area is not protected, destruction of property can occur through the erosion of stream banks and increased flooding. The degradation of water quality; increased water temperature; and reduction in fish and wildlife diversity are detriments that may occur without the protection of this riparian area. Restoration of these areas may be necessary in areas that have been degraded or disturbed and may include stream channel restoration and stream bank stabilization. Cr, or(:rniu:r STATK>N COIL.( STA noN PARKS AND R(MLA TION MAP F HYDROLOGY / FLOODPLAIN PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN Floodplain & Hydrology \44 - {". 0_ 0 0 1- ( +'` . / r \/`. ygRG I( L s / i^ L �• 1 ,. 'nt _BUR 70.NKGRE��� Cq�L � t .�1 Fe T •np eK� L PE", Cf /Cs, n Tn 2 6RUN a y< m CREEK x GRIMES COUNTY A N lTEC. /A /5 P BURLESON COUNTY K CREEK 5PR\4GV.. °yy; `:- • ;Gp0'. �� ./.%., \ ( ( N, ,/ REEK 100 Yea, Floor! Plain - 500 Yea. Flood Plain - COCS Greenway COCS Packs I ' COCS City Limits I Bryan City Limits Bru(os Bounda,y Texas Counties MRSTre PUN, 2011-2020 (*if" CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 Vegetation and Wildlife Brazos County falls within the Post Oak Savannah and Blackland Prairie ecoregions. The Post Oak Savannah is dominated by native bunch grasses and forbs, scattered mainly with Post Oaks and Blackjack Oaks. According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Black Hickory, Cedar Elm, Sugarberry, and Eastern Red Cedar are also common. Understory of wooded areas typically includes Yaupon, American Beautyberry, and Greenbriar. Native grasses include Little Bluestem, lndiangrass, Switchgrass, and Texas Wintergrass. Post Oaks are high quality native trees that grow slowly, are sensitive to root damage, and are not easily replanted. They are also sensitive to environmental changes and to standing water, soil compaction, and other harsh conditions. Overwatering or soil compaction can fill air spaces in the soil which will suffocate the tree roots. The Blackland Prairies form parallel bands within the Post Oak Savannah. Canopy trees within this area include Live Oaks, Pecan, Cedar Elm, Eastern Red Cedar, various oaks, and American Elms. Grasses include Big Bluestem, Indiangrass, and Little Bluestem. According to the Soil Survey of Brazos County, the Post Oak Savannah provides more than half the wildlife habitat in the County. Within bottomland hardwoods, wildlife may include white-tailed deer, wild turkey, feral hogs, gray fox, and owls. Within wooded wetlands, wildlife may include ducks, great blue heron, green heron, beaver, and alligators. Within rangelands, wildlife may include white-tailed deer, red-tailed hawk, Harris sparrow, fox sparrow, bobcat, coyote, cottontail, and raccoon. Threatened and endangered species in the Brazos County include the Red wolf, Houston toad, Interior Least Tern and the whooping crane and are currently on the Federal list of endangered species. A rare orchid, the Navasota Ladies' -tresses, is also a Federally endangered plant that can be found in the Post Oak Savannah region. Man-made Features In addition to the identified natural features and resources, there exist man-made features that may present opportunities for meeting the parks and recreation needs of the community. These features include long distance rights of way used for electric transmission or pipelines. Several of these features are found in strategic locations throughout the City and the ETJ. Needs and Opportunities When taken in combination, the preceding approaches to determining need and preferred levels of service, the following have been identified: Neighborhood Parkland Needs Based on adopted standards for minimum parkland acres per 1,000 residents, it is estimated that a deficit currently exists in 22 of the 29 neighborhood park zones. Without additional neighborhood parkland being secured, this deficit is projected to increase by 2020, such that 24 of the 29 zones will be deficient, with the most significant deficits found in neighborhoods near the University and in the fast growing southern and southwestern portions of the City. 4-ff" CITY OF CoI LEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION TABLE 6 2010 POPULATION AND NEIGHBORHOOD AND MINI PARK ACREAGE AND NEEDS MASTER PLAN 2011- 2020 PARK ZONE 1 2010 PARK ACREAGE IN ZONE 1 1.59 2010 ESTIMATED POPULATION 2 3,026 2010 PARK ACREAGE NEEDS 3 10.59 2010 ACREAGE DEFICIT/SURPLUS - 9.00 2 39.78 12,596 44.08 - 4.30 3 2.50 8,643 30.25 - 27.75 4 35.52 1,951 6.83 28.69 5 62.88 12,914 45.19 17.69 6 55.43 17,533 61.36 - 5.93 7 15.26 6,415 22.45 - 7.19 8 26.40 2,553 8.93 17.46 9 14.40 442 1.55 12.85 10 58.12 6,620 23.17 34.95 11 10.20 2,795 9.78 .42 12 3.92 706 2.47 1.45 13 8.26 2,367 8.28 - .02 14 0 222 .78 - .78 15 0 2,386 8.35 - 8.35 16 0 365 1.28 - 1.28 17 0 339 1.19 - 1.18 18 0 550 1.92 - 1.92 19 0 121 .42 - .42 20 0 886 3.10 - 3.10 21 0 537 1.88 - 1.88 22 0 183 .64 -.64 23 0 62 .22 - .22 24 0 273 .95 -.95 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 2010 PARK 2010 PARK ESTIMATED 2010 PARK 2010 ACREAGE ZONE ACREAGE IN ZONE 1 POPULATION 2 ACREAGE NEEDS 3 DEFICIT/SURPLUS 25 0 442 1.55 - 1.55 26 0 840 2.94 - 2.94 27 0 22 .08 - .08 28 0 132 .46 - .46 29 0 114 .40 - .40 CITY TOTAL 334.26 86,035 301.10 + 33.16 ' This total includes mini and neighborhood parks (excludes the community and regional parks). 2 2010 population estimates obtained through the City of College Station Planning and Development Services Department. 3 Based on standard of 3.5 acres of mini and neighborhood parks per 1,000 citizens (citizens per 1,000 x 3.5 acres). Senior Programming offers a wide variety of activities to choose from, such as field trips, the annual Senior Expo, and the Senior Games. 41 r 4s4d�w�Yu•.uu•.vu•.•uY���YJIYIlY4441141061/41101� .. w1444441444i1441Wiiisdfillwl WNW CITY OF COLLEGE STATION PARK ZONE COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN 2011- 2020 TABLE 7 2020 POPULATION AND NEIGHBORHOOD AND MINI PARK ACREAGE AND NEEDS 2020 PROJECTED POPULATION 1 2020 TOTAL PARK ACREAGE NEEDED 2 2010 PARK ACREAGE 3 2020 ACREAGE DEFICIT/SURPLUS 1 3,195 11.18 1.59 - 9.59 2 13,076 45.77 39.78 - 5.99 3 10,123 35.43 2.50 - 32.93 4 4,727 16.54 35.52 18.98 5 14,260 49.91 62.88 12.97 6 18,016 63.06 55.43 - 7.63 7 7,708 26.98 15.26 - 11.72 8 3,163 11.07 26.40 15.33 9 967 3.38 14.40 11.02 10 8,070 28.25 58.12 29.87 11 5,690 19.92 10.20 - 9.72 12 1,621 5.67 3.92 - 1.75 13 3,959 13.86 8.26 - 5.60 14 593 2.08 0 - 2.08 15 7,053 24.68 0 - 24.68 16 486 1.70 0 - 1.70 17 413 1.45 0 - 1.45 18 670 2.34 0 - 2.34 19 148 .52 0 - .52 20 3,369 11.79 0 - 11.79 21 1,391 4.87 0 - 4.87 22 245 .86 0 - .86 23 83 .29 0 - .29 24 1,217 4.26 0 - 4.26 '"4 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 PARK 2020 PROJECTED ZONE POPULATION 1 2020 TOTAL PARK ACREAGE NEEDED 2 2010 PARK 2020 ACREAGE ACREAGE 3 DEFICIT/SURPLUS 25 594 2.08 0 - 1.55 26 1,129 3.95 0 - 2.94 27 30 .10 0 - .08 28 177 .62 0 - .46 29 153 .53 0 - .40 CITY TOTAL 112,326 393.14 334.26 -58.88 1 2020 population projections obtained through the City of College Station Planning and Development Services Department. 2 Based on standard of 3.5 acres of mini and neighborhood parks per 1,000 citizens (citizens per 1,000 x 3.5 acres). 3 This total includes mini and neighborhood parks and excludes the community and regional parks. Swim lesson classes are provided for all ages - from six months to adult. Cnn rC:outcr SrAnoN COI LEM STAfON PARRS AND RECREATION MAP G NEIGHBORHOOD PARK LAND NEEDS 2020 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN Neighborhood Park Land Needs by 2020 t �4 • GRIMES COUNTY. (,AcI BURLESON COUNTY 0.5 1 Neighborhood Park Zones COCS Parks I I COCS City Limits Bryan City Limits Brazos Boundary Texas Counties Future Neighborhood Park Land Needs MASTER PUN, 2011-2020 VP% CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Community Parkland Needs MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Based on adopted standards for minimum parkland acres per 1,000 residents, it is estimated that a deficit currently exists in three of the four community park zones. Without additional community parkland being secured, this deficit is projected to further increase by 2020, to such a point that the community will be nearly 100 acres deficient in community parkland. The most significant deficits are found in the southeastern and southwestern portions of the City. See MAP H on the next page. TABLE 8 2010 POPULATION AND COMMUNITY PARK ACREAGE AND NEEDS PARK ZONE 2010 PARK ACREAGE IN ZONE 1 2010 ESTIMATED POPULATION 2 2010 PARK ACREAGE NEEDS 3 2010 ACREAGE DEFICIT/SURPLUS A 0.00 10,794 37.78 - 37.78 B 122.16 44,947 157.31 - 35.15 C 177.15 26,900 94.15 83.00 D 0.00 3,394 11.88 - 11.88 TOTAL 299.31 86,035 301.12 - 1.81 1 This total includes all community parks including Hensel Park, 29.70 of the acres in Park Zone 8, owned by Texas A&M University. This excludes the mini, neighborhood, and regional parks. 2 2010 population estimates obtained through the City of College Station Planning and Development Services Department. 3 Based on standard of 3.5 acres of community parks per 1,000 citizens (citizens per 1,000 x 3.5 acres). CITY Or C OUR:, STATION Comae STATION PARKS AND R[CRUMION MAP H COMMUNITY PARK LAND NEEDS 2020 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN Community Park Land Needs by 2020 \s; D 24 Ac] GRIMES i COUNTY J ® Community Park Zones COCS Parks COCS City Limits Bryan City Limits Brains finitude/y Texas Counties Future Community Pak Land Need MASTER PIAN, 2011 -2020 V(4414'44111 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Cit OF COLLEGE STATION TABLE 9 2020 POPULATION AND COMMUNITY PARK ACREAGE AND NEEDS PARK ZONE 2020 PROJECTED POPULATION 1 2020 TOTAL PARK ACREAGE NEEDED 2 2010 PARK ACREAGE 3 2020 ACREAGE DEFICIT/SURPLUS A 17,589 61.56 0.00 - 61.56 B 54,082 189.29 122.16 67.13 C 33,867 118.53 177.15 - 58.62 D 6,788 23.76 0.00 - 23.76 TOTAL 112,326 393.14 I 299.31 - 93.83 ' 2020 population projections obtained through the City of College Station Planning and Development Services Department. 2 Based on standard of 3.5 acres of community parks per 1,000 citizens (citizens per 1,000 x 3.5 acres). 3 This total includes all community parks including Hensel Park, 29.70 of the acres in Park Zone 8, owned by Texas A&M University. This excludes the mini, neighborhood, and regional parks. (trff' CITY OF COLLEGE. STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION TABLE 10 PROJECTED POPULATION CHANGE BY NEIGHBORHOOD PARK ZONE 2010/2020 MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 PARK ZONE 2010 ESTIMATED POPULATION* 2020 ESTIMATED POPULATION* POPULATION CHANGE PERCENT CHANGED 1 3,026 3,195 169 6% 2 12,596 13,076 480 4% 3 8,643 10,123 1,480 17% 4 1,951 4,727 2,776 14% 5 12,914 14,260 1,346 10% 6 17,533 18,016 483 3% 7 6,415 7,708 1,293 20% 8 2,553 3,163 610 24% 9 442 967 525 12% 10 6,620 8,070 1,450 22% 11 2,795 5,690 2,895 10% 12 706 1,621 915 13% 13 2,367 3,959 1,592 67% 14 222 593 371 16% 15 2,386 7,053 4,667 19% 16 365 486 121 33% 17 339 413 74 22% 18 550 670 120 22% 19 121 148 27 22% 20 886 3,369 2,483 28% 21 537 1,391 854 16% 22 183 245 62 34% 23 62 83 21 34% 24 273 1,217 944 350% 01" CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN 2011- 2020 PARK ZONE 2010 ESTIMATED POPULATION* 2020 ESTIMATED POPULATION* POPULATION CHANGE PERCENT CHANGED 25 442 594 152 34% 26 840 1,129 289 34% 27 22 30 8 36% 28 132 177 45 34% 29 114 153 39 34% TOTAL 86,035 112,326 26,291 31% * 2010 and 2020 population projections obtained through the City of College Station Planning and Development Services Department. TABLE 11 PROJECTED POPULATION CHANGE BY COMMUNITY PARK ZONE 2010/2020 PARK ZONE 2010 ESTIMATED POPULATION* 2020 ESTIMATED POPULATION* POPULATION CHANGE PERCENT CHANGED A 10,794 17,590 6,796 63% B 44,947 54,081 9,134 20% C 26,900 33,867 6,967 26% D 3,394 6,788 3,394 100% TOTAL 86,035 112,326 I 26,291 31% * 2010 and 2020 population projections obtained through the City of College Station Planning and Development Services Department. CtttwCnutcr STATION CODE& STATION PAM AND REOIUfON MAP I NEIGHBORHOOD PARK ZONES POPULATION GROWTH ESTIMATES 2010-2020 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN Neighborhood Park Zone Population Growth Estimates (2010 - 2020) z ti •l 28 BURLESON COUNTY 0 0.5 1 2 v Miles 29 GRIMES COUNTY 'i Neighborhood Park Zones COCS Parks COCS City Limns Bryan City Limits Brazos Boundary Texas Counties OPop. Gain bozo 2010 to 2020 l I MASTER Pun, 2011 -7020 VII414144 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER Ptah, 2011-2020 CITY OF CCHLEGE STATION Facility Needs Playgrounds: Eleven new playgrounds are needed over the next ten years. This includes seven units in new neighborhood parks, two units in new community parks, and two units in one or two existing parks. Basketball Courts: Six new neighborhood basketball courts are currently needed, with a total of 46 needed by 2020. In addition to the three needed for existing neighborhood parks, seven are needed in new neighborhood parks. Four additional courts are required for new community parks Athletic Fields: The City has not been able to keep up with the demand for more athletic fields in all sports. In order to cope with the demand for athletic fields' limited resources, the City has developed a Priority of Usage Policy for athletic facilities. This policy establishes a ranking system whereby various groups or associations are given priority for use of athletic fields by an established ranking. This ranking helps to utilize the limited fields for a maximum benefit, designed to satisfy residents' needs first. Any future athletic fields will have to be funded out of a future bond program since there are no new athletic facilities funded at this time. Another reason for the increase in athletic field requests is the growth from recreational athletic teams to competitive athletic teams, especially in Youth Baseball and Youth Soccer. Youth are tending to specialize more in one sport rather than participating in many sports. Shelters: Three additional shelters are currently needed. Seventeen are needed by 2020. Eight shelters are needed for existing neighborhood parks and seven are needed for proposed new neighborhood parks. Two shelters are needed for a new community park. Walking Trails: A total of 13 additional recreational walking trails are needed by 2020; three in existing neighborhood parks, eight in future neighborhood parks and two in future community parks. Disc Golf Courses: Three, nine -hole courses have been installed in Lemontree, Oaks, and Wolf Pen Creek Parks. These are growing in popularity and more courses are needed in other parks. Group Pavilions: The City currently has seven group pavilions that can accommodate functions of up to 500 people. During peak seasons, all facilities are booked well in advance. A pavilion is needed in each of the new community park sites in Zones B and C for a total need of three. CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MasrER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Tennis Courts: Currently, 27 lighted and four unlighted tennis courts at school sites are available to the public. In 2000, four lighted tennis courts were built at the A&M Consolidated Middle School by the College Station Independent School District (CSISD). The City participated financially, and these courts are available for use by the public in the evenings and on weekends. The City funded the addition of lights to the High School tennis courts in exchange for public access when not in use by CSISD. This added a total of 13 courts for public use. Four courts have also been installed at the Middle School on Rock Prairie Road. It is possible that the City could enter into an agreement with CSISD to light these courts for public use. Two additional courts with lights were installed with the development of Castlegate Park. These additional courts have more than doubled the number available for public use. These should meet the needs of the community for the next five years. Six additional tennis courts are needed for a new community park in Zone 9 and in a future community park in Zone 10. Swimming Pools: Currently, three outdoor swimming pools exist, and City residents have some limited access to the CSISD's indoor pool (the Natatorium) at the College Station Middle School. There are a variety of competitive swim teams that utilize the City -operated pools throughout the year. The Parks and Recreation Department offers a spring/summer swim team — the College Station Tsunamis, which had 127 members in 2009. The swim team utilizes the College Station Middle School Natatorium during the spring and summer. Swim meets are held there as well. The High School swim team also uses the Natatorium during the school term, with morning and afternoon workouts. The U.S.S. Aggie Swim Club utilizes the Natatorium during fall, winter, and spring months for workouts. Also, the City's Learn to Swim Program and Water Aerobics Classes are conducted in the spring and summer. It is likely that a new community pool will be needed within ten years to serve the projected population growth in the rapidly developing southern portion of the city. Splash Park: The City's first splash park was installed at the Lincoln Recreation Center in W.A. Tarrow Park in August 2006. Additional splash parks may be considered as an alternative to additional swimming pools in other parts of the City. Community/Recreation Center: Currently, the Parks and Recreation Department has one traditional recreation center, Lincoln Recreation Center, which had an estimated 82,862 visitors in 2009. The Southwood Community Center (formerly known as the EXIT Teen Center), constructed in Southwood Athletic Park in 1999, within walking distance from the Middle School, is a second center, though it currently lacks many of the features typically found at a recreation center, such as indoor athletic courts. The Center's close proximity to the school attracts students for leisure, social, and recreational activities in a safe and positive environment during after- school hours. Additional indoor recreation facilities are currently needed on the east side of Texas Avenue to serve the existing population. These facilities should be developed as joint facilities with elementary schools in those neighborhoods. Also, a new recreation center is likely to be needed in the next five years to accommodate the City's anticipated growth to the south, which will leave a large number of new residents many miles from the existing and planned recreation centers. CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 The City also operates the Conference Center on George Bush Drive. This facility is designated for use as a meeting facility and is available for rentals. This use may change if a new City convention center complex is completed. Regulation Baseball Fields: Currently, nine youth baseball fields exist, serving approximately 2,000 players in Little League or competitive baseball clubs. The number of players in these clubs is expected to increase somewhat over the next ten years, resulting in a need for an additional three baseball fields by 2020. One adult baseball field is needed to meet current demand; as, there are none available in College Station. The City of Bryan has one large field at Travis Park that has been used as the high school facility for many years. Travis Park has expanded its' facilities over the past several years, including the construction of a semi- professional competition baseball field. This has opened Bryan High School's field to other uses, such as adult baseball leagues. In addition to the adult baseball field, there is currently a need for two Pony League -sized baseball fields in College Station. This is due to the increase in competitive open base baseball teams and tournaments. This program is growing, both in number of local teams and in the number of tournaments being hosted. As this program grows, additional fields will be needed. Additionally, proposed rule changes within the Little League Organization will require the development of Pony League -sized fields. This will be filled by converting the Bee Creek softball fields to dual use fields so that they can help fulfill the baseball need. Regulation Softball Fields: The City currently has five adult fields and eight youth fields for a total of 13 fields. The adult facilities have been utilized at their maximum for over ten years. During this time the City turned away an average of 30 adult teams per season, or 90 per year. Due to fee restructuring, the demand dropped significantly, however it is recovering quickly. In 2009, the City had a total of 480 adult softball teams in the three City seasons — a total of 7,030 participants. In addition, the City hosts or assists with state, regional, national, and invitational softball tournaments each year. In 2009, six of these types of tournaments were held in College Station. Girls' softball has become popular with its inclusion in most Texas high schools as a UIL championship sport for girls, and has been an official Olympic Sport for women in the Olympic Games since 1996. In 2009, the City had 51 teams (501 girls) registered in the softball program. Given the increases in demand, facility needs are expected to increase to five youth fields and nine adult fields by 2020. Regulation Soccer Fields: City soccer facilities serve multiple groups in the community. In spring and fall 2009, the College Station Soccer Club registered approximately 2,650 children. In addition to the recreational youth league, there were 21 competitive teams from two different youth organizations registered. The competitive teams utilize the soccer facilities on a year-round basis for practices and games. The City also contracts with the local adult soccer association to permit them to use City facilities. The adult league offers three seasons per year and had approximately 146 teams registered in 2009. They have begun to limit enrollment due to field space constraints. (141C4**1 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MasrER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION The City currently has 22 regulation soccer fields (14 adult and eight youth). Four of the adult fields are shared with the twelve -and -under youth groups and three are used during the fall season for flag football. Twenty-six fields are needed for the projected 2020 demand. Much of the increased demand will be to accommodate the need for game -quality, lighted practice fields, mostly for the competitive teams. Cricket Fields: Currently there is one athletic field at Stephen C. Beachy Central Park that can be used for cricket games. Flag Football Fields: Currently, there are no football fields in the City. Both the adult and youth flag football programs utilize the three large athletic fields at Stephen C. Beachy Central Park in the fall season. The youth program has become one of the most popular programs offered, with 505 children registered in 2009. The adult league registered 22 teams in 2009. The two large baseball fields at Southwood Athletic Park are utilized for the Punt, Pass & Kick Program, which registered 75 participants in 2009. Four flag football fields are needed for current demand, with an additional field needed by 2020. Other Facilities: There are several types of facilities that have been requested in the past that are not currently available in the City. These include archery, a senior citizens' center, roller hockey and skateboard, radio control courses/fields, campsites, go-cart tracks, BMX bike tracks, and regulation public golf courses. COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION 4,4411114 MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE. STATION Recreation & Leisure Programs: Based on assessment of local needs and accepted standards, the following recreation and leisure program needs have been identified: Athletic Programs: Current athletic program deficiencies include a second adult flag football league and third youth softball league. In addition to these deficiencies, needs are projected for a youth sports camp, sports programming for pre-school youth, an adult basketball league, and youth rugby. As noted elsewhere in this plan, many of these needs are accompanied by related facility needs, such as multi -sport lighted practice fields, baseball fields, and community recreation centers capable of accommodating basketball and volleyball courts. Aquatic Programs: Though facility needs, such as an additional swimming pool and renovation of existing pools are noted in this plan, it is believed that the projected need for aquatic programs can continue to be met through the continuation of existing programming. Heritage Programs: It is anticipated that with customary technology upgrades (such as improved software), the projected needs for heritage programming can be met through the continuation of current programming. Instruction and Xtra Education: Though it is anticipated the projected needs for instruction and education can continue to be met through the continuation of existing programming, a need for classroom space beyond that provided by CSISD is needed. Library Services: In addition to the library expansion project approved by voters in 2008, the greatest need to meet projected demand is the ability to secure funding to acquire books and other materials to be placed into circulation. Senior Services: Based on the increasing size of the senior population projected for the future of College Station, the greatest need remains a full-service facility dedicated to meeting senior recreation and leisure needs. It is anticipated that all other projected needs can be met through the continuation of existing programming. Youth and After -School Programs: The greatest needs projected for youth and after-school programs include expansion of Kids Klub as new CSISD schools are opened, the need to manage, promote, and administer the programs at Lincoln Center and Southwood Community Center in an uniform and equitable fashion, and additional gym space in a second location. Special Events (Starlight Music Festival, Christmas in the Park, Duck Jam, etc.): Special events are projected to increasingly become more important to the City and to their recreation and leisure programming efforts. This will be most notable with expanded programming at Wolf Pen Creek as the Festival Site and Water Feature are developed. Needs include continued support of existing programs such as World Fest, Weiner Fest, Duck Jam, etc., along with relocation of other events such as Christmas in the Park and the Farmer's Market to Wolf Pen Creek. Additionally, new programming such as urban greenways and nature education, fitness programs, etc., will also be necessary in the future. (frff" COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Hosted Athletic Events: It is projected that the City will need to continue to expand its hosted athletic events to continue to draw athletes and tourists to the community. Most of these events can be accommodated (and will even aid in covering some of the operational costs) with existing facilities and the facilities noted in this plan as needed to meet current or projected community needs, though additional athletic fields with artificial turf surfaces would increase the number and diversity of events that could be hosted by the City. Open Space: A need continues to exist for the acquisition of open space areas to provide resource protection, wildlife habitat, and recreation opportunities (such as wildlife viewing, multi -use paths, nature trails, etc). Further, this acquisition reduces the risks associated with development in flood -prone areas. Priority acquisition areas remain focused in and around the City's major streams, especially, Carters Creek, Lick Creek, and Bee Creek. Additionally, the need exists to protect areas that contain habitat for endangered species and that represent intact examples of the post -oak savannah. Operational Support Facilities: Successful operation of the physical parks system and recreation program requires adequate staffing and equipment. To be efficient, the staff and equipment should be housed in contemporary and effective facilities. Recent upgrades and new construction have ensured that a number of the parks and recreation operations meet this standard. The next ten years will continue to bring additional needs, including the need to replace the East District Maintenance Facility and to update/remodel the Parks and Recreation administrative offices located in Stephen C. Beachy Central Park. Goals In recognition of the identified needs and opportunities, the following goals for the recreation, parks, and open space system for College Station are established: • Resource Conservation & City Character Protected open space, natural features, and natural resources contributing to the unique character desired for various areas of the City and for the City as a whole • Health & Wellness Parks and Recreation system enabling residents to attain and sustain an active lifestyle and reduce the economic costs associated with poor health • Economic Sustainability Parks and Recreation system that adds economic value to the City through enhanced property values, reduced medical costs, and through attraction of guests and participants to events and programs • Connectivity & Mobility Parks and open spaces linked together and to the City's vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian networks • Parkland and Neighborhood Character High-quality environments located in close proximity to as many residences as practical meeting the needs and levels of service of those residents 4.1f" COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PIAN, 2011-2020 CITY OF COLLEGE $TALION • Diversity in Recreation & Cultural Programs Opportunities for persons of all ages and abilities and to celebrate the diversity of cultures found in the community • Responsible Governance Cost-effective system where those generating demand for facilities and programs provide the means to deliver those facilities and programs and where partnerships are maximized Gaps Between Where We Are and Where We Need to Be With an understanding of where we are and where we need to be, we can turn our attention to identifying the gaps. As noted earlier, the development of this Master Plan has relied on varying approaches to determine the parks, open space, and recreation needs of the residents and visitors of College Station. In light of the current context, established goals, and projected needs, this assessment indicates the need to: • Develop park prototypes or models that are less costly to maintain; • Secure additional funding sources for parks, open space, and recreation; • Ensure parkland acquisition and park development keep pace with the rate of development to maintain identified parkland to resident ratios; • Provide additional opportunities for parks and open space to be located in close proximity to more residents; • Provide more natural amenities such as more trees or preservation of existing natural areas, passive areas, and non -programmed play areas; • Provide more pedestrian and bicycle facilities in parks and connections between parks; • Enhance parks and facilities to address changing needs and demographics — examples include community parks, skate parks, urban parks, and community centers; • Provide additional athletic facilities including softball and baseball fields, basketball courts, flag football fields, playgrounds, shelters, swimming pools, and practice fields; • Maintain park facilities at a high level; • Enhance awareness of the City's facilities and programs through various media; and, • Maintain and enhance partnerships with other entities such as the College Station Independent School District. All of these needs, of course, must be met in an increasingly challenging economic environment. It is therefore necessary that these needs be met in innovative and efficient ways that will, in many instances, represent significant departures from past practices. Strategies The following strategies are intended to provide general approaches that, if undertaken, will result in practical ways to achieve the stated goals, meet the identified needs, and respond to the assessment of the current contexts this Plan is being developed within. COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION 41/41111411 MasrER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Resource Conservation & City Character Protected open space, natural features, and natural resources contributing to the unique character desired for various areas of the City and for the City as a whole It is proposed that this goal be achieved by focusing on: • Greening the City through park restoration, plantings, streetscape, etc.; • Green parks and recreation design and operations; and, • Preservation open spaces through acceptance of land dedications and acquisition. Health & Wellness Parks and Recreation system enabling residents to attain and sustain an active lifestyle and reduce the economic costs associated with poor health It is proposed that this goal be achieved by focusing on: • Providing open space and parks in close proximity to residences; and, • Enhancing existing parks and facilities to increase opportunities to be more physically active. Economic Sustainability Parks and Recreation system that adds economic value to the City through enhanced property values, reduced medical costs, and through attraction of guests and participants to events and programs It is proposed that this goal be achieved by focusing on: • Identifying and supporting signature events within the community; • Supporting athletic events that attract out -of -community participants; and, • Ensuring that parks, preserved open space, greenways, etc., are located within close proximity to residences. Connectivity & Mobility Parks and open spaces linked together, and to the City's vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian networks It is proposed that this goal be achieved by focusing on: • Linking parks to larger transportation system; • Linking parks to greenway system; and, • Using parks to further implementation of the City's adopted Plans (Comprehensive Plan, neighborhood plans, Thoroughfare Plan, and Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan). CITY OF COLLEGE S1A I ION COLLEGE STATION PARKS ANO RECREATION Parkland & Neighborhood Character MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 High-quality environments located in close proximity to as many residences as practical meeting the needs and levels of service of those residents It is proposed that this goal be achieved by focusing on: • Renovating and enhancing existing parks and facilities; • Meeting future parks and recreation needs through a diversity of park types (such as regional parks, community parks, neighborhood parks, and linear parks); • Providing open space and parks in close proximity to residences; and, • Preserving open space areas that contribute to the character of a neighborhood or contain significant natural features. Diversity in Recreation & Cultural Programs Opportunities for persons of all ages and abilities and to celebrate the diversity of cultures found in the community It is proposed that this goal be achieved by focusing on: • Providing inter -generational facilities in all parks and facilities; • Developing a community center within the City; • Providing high-quality youth programs and facilities; and, • Developing and programming the Wolf Pen Creek Park as a unique facility that protects significant natural features, offers gathering places for the entire City, and offers opportunities to celebrate our City's diversity in the arts and culture. Responsible Governance Cost-effective system where those generating demand for facilities and programs provide the means to deliver those facilities and programs and where partnerships are maximized It is proposed that this goal be achieved by focusing on: • Identifying projected operations and maintenance costs for facilities and programs and identifying revenue sources to meet these needs; • Developing and implementing the pay to play concept for recreation programs and facilities; • Seeking out and implementing partnership opportunities with CSISD, private recreation providers, private developers, land trusts, and others; and, • Providing and maintaining operation support facilities. Giral41 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Mas-TER PLAN, 2011- 2020 (,nT OF COLLEGE, STATION Framework Overview Section 4 — Implementation, and APPENDIX G of this Plan outline specific actions that need to be taken to successfully implement the strategies and achieve the goals stated in this Plan. The following provides a simplified view of what this Plan calls for physically, fiscally, and operationally. This framework represents the concept of the overall approach to this Plan, with the specific action items adding the details to this frame. Physical Framework This plan envisions a park system consisting primarily of parks located close to where residents live. Initially, nearly all of these parks will be developed, owned, and maintained by the City. Eventually, some of these parks may be developed by private developers concurrent with development and owned and maintained by the Homeowner or Property Owner Associations. These parks will increasingly become more diverse in their location, size, and offerings. While each park will continue to provide a core set of offerings, including walking trails and playgrounds, more of the park will remain natural and non -programmed or developed. Each park will include offerings uniquely tailored to its context (such as a pond or riparian buffer/greenway) and responsive to the needs of surrounding residents (such as a small dog park in high density areas or additional play units in family-oriented neighborhoods). The following exhibit provides examples of these concepts. DIVERSITY IN PARK TYPES AND DESIGN GREEN PLAZA "O ARI PLAYGROUND EXAMPLES OF DIVERSITY OF PARK TYPES • VARIETY OF SIZES • VARIETY OF OFFERINGS • PLACEMENT ENHANCES NEIGHBORHOOD • RESPONSIVE TO NEIGHBORHOOD NEEDS CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Existing neighborhood parks will continue to be retrofitted to be intergenerational in their offerings, meaning shade shelters, benches, and walking trails will be added where not currently existing. Existing neighborhood parks will also be retrofitted to lower maintenance costs and incorporate more green areas. Trees will be planted, open areas of mowed grass will be planted with wildflowers and native plants, and streams and forested areas will be restored. The following exhibit provides an example of this concept. These neighborhood parks will be complimented by local and community parks. Local parks will most closely resemble many of the larger neighborhood parks that exist today (that is, 5-10 acres in size, include play units, practices fields, etc — such as Sandstone Park), though they too will increasingly consist of more natural and undeveloped areas. Community parks will continue to be where the City focuses its most intense recreation offerings. Each Community Park Zone in the City will have at least one facility that provides for intense activities such as athletic fields and courts, swimming pools, and group pavilions. These parks will continue to be developed in such a fashion as to respond to changing needs (for example adding the skate park in Southwood Athletic Park) and to serve multiple purposes (such as meeting community recreation needs but also being able to host regional and national competitive and special events). EXAMPLE OF PARK RETROFIT • INCREASED WALKING TRAILS • REDUCED LAWN AREAS • INCREASED NATIVE PLANTINGS (GRASS, WILDFLOWERS, AND TREES) Neighborhood, local, and community parks will be further complimented by much larger preserves and regional parks. Preserves will primarily focus on the preservation and restoration of natural areas. A current example of such a park is Lick Creek Nature Park, where the primary purpose is preservation of riparian areas and large forested areas. Development has been kept to a minimum (small parking area, nature trails) and focused on passive recreation (hiking, bird -watching, and horseback riding) and education (nature center). Areas along Carters Creek and in the ETJ represent excellent opportunities for similar efforts in the future. Regional parks will be much larger and most likely developed in partnership with other regional and state CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011 -2020 organizations. Recently one such effort was the discussed that included participation in the acquisition of 10,000 acres owned by the Texas Municipal Power Agency. Such a park would meet needs not likely met within the City (camping, boating, backpacking, etc) and would serve as a draw for tourists and travelers from outside of the immediate area. All of these park types will be connected via a series of networks, both green and man-made. All facilities will have access via the local and community street network but also connected to the City's bicycle and pedestrian network. Increasingly, more of the parks will be connected to one another and to other community facilities (such as schools and libraries) via multi -use paths. Where possible, many of the parks will be connected to adjacent greenways, protected from encroachment and may or may not include the afore -mentioned multi -use paths. Such greenways will protect vital riparian areas along streams and will provide wildlife corridors and protect natural habitat. The following exhibit illustrates this overall system framework concept. Neighborhood Parks (Greens, Playgrounds. Etc) PHYSICAL SYSTEM FRAMEWORK • REGIONAL PARKS & PRESERVES IN OUTLYING AND RURAL AREAS • NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS NEAR HOMES • LOCAL AND COMMUNITY PARKS SERVING MOST ACTIVE RECREATION NEEDS OF COMMUNITY • ALL CONNECTED VIA STREETS, BIKE LANES, AND LINEAR PARKS Critical to this concept is its incremental and strategic implementation. The City should first focus on identifying and developing appropriate park types and standards, on retrofitting existing parks, and on providing park linkages, then on accepting and maintaining the greater diversity of park types. Once proven successful, the City may move toward increasing the number of parks that are privately developed, owned, and maintained. COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION 411.1r4141111 MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Fiscal Framework This Plan envisions a system that is increasingly more efficient, meeting increasing demands within the context of increasingly scarce resources. This does not mean doing less with less or even more with less; rather it means being smarter with the resources dedicated to the parks and recreation system. The first steps in this concept are to reduce the cost of operating and maintaining parks and recreation programs, increase revenues coming into the system, and critically evaluate the subsidies provided for each of the recreation programs offered by the City. This approach includes the afore -mentioned retrofitting of parks, in many areas, to be more natural and less maintenance -intense. This approach also includes pursuing a Green approach to park management where energy conservation measures (such as replacement of lighting with more efficient lighting or drought practices for irrigation) are combined with innovations (such as using treated effluent to irrigate athletic fields) to yield, in the long-term lower cost operations and maintenance. Each of these efforts will have additional costs up -front but will pay off in operations and maintenance savings in the long-term. These steps will also allow the neighborhood park system to become more diverse (in location and size) over time as increasing operations and maintenance costs have long -been a major concern in the development of a network of diverse parks. This approach will continue to promote efforts at increasing revenues whether from traditional approaches (such as registration fees) or from more innovative approaches (such as through partnerships and sponsorships or through co -production — where the City provides the facilities, but the users provide the revenues and organizational support necessary to conduct the recreation program). The exhibit on the next page illustrates the fiscal framework concept. Lick Creek Park (141P141 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011 - 20I0 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION FISCAL FRAMEWORK • REDUCE OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE COSTS ✓ MORE NATURAL NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS ✓ OUTSOURCE WHERE APPROPRIATE ✓ GREEN OPERATIONS • INCREASE REVENUES & DECREASES SUBSIDIES ✓ ACCOUNTING OF COSTS TO PROVIDE SERVICES AND PROGRAMS ✓ EVALUATION OF CURRENT SUBSIDIES ✓ INCREASE FEES TO ELIMINATE SUBSISIDES WHERE APPROPRIATE THIS - MORE NATURAL/LESS PROGRAMMED V A NOT THIS - MORE PROGRAMMED LESS NATURAL Finally, this approach will provide detailed cost and revenue information for each of the recreation programs offered by the City so that each may be evaluated to determine operational efficiencies and how much subsidy is provided and what level is appropriate. Increasingly, this approach will allow both better decision-making but also ensure that funds remain specifically dedicated for highly -valued programs. Recreation and Special Events Programming Framework This Plan envisions a recreation program emphasizing increasing opportunities for residents to be physically active, regardless of age or ability. A special emphasis will continue on offerings for youth, especially for after-school activities. The City will continue to host and participate in special events (such as the annual 4,4144 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011 - 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Christmas in the Park event) and athletic competitions (such as regional softball tournaments) that provide opportunities for area residents and also attract visitors to our community. The physical park system identified in this Plan is critical to the City's recreation programming efforts. Many daily physical activity needs of residents will be met through the City's network of sidewalks and bike facilities as well as nature trails and playgrounds found in their neighborhood parks. The most intense physical activities, however are likely to come through use of facilities found in community parks, athletic centers, and community/recreation centers (such as competitive athletics, skateboarding, and swimming). Likewise, essentially all of the special events and competitive athletic events rely upon high-quality, modern facilities (such as large athletic complexes, amphitheaters, and festival sites). The following exhibit illustrates the programming framework concept. RECREATION AND PROGRAMMING FRAMEWORK • INCREASED OPPORTUNITIES FOR PERSONS OF ALL AGES AND ABILITIES TO BE MORE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE ✓ EMPHASIS ON YOUTH — ESPECIALLY FOR AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ✓ ADULT PROGRAMS LESS SUBSIDIZIED ✓ EMPHASIS ON WALKING TRAILS, BIKE FACILITIES, AND SIDEWALKS • CONTINUE TO FOCUS ON SPECIAL EVENTS AND ATHLETIC TOURNAMENTS ✓ EMPHASIS ON OFFERINGS THAT SERVE LOCAL POPULATION BUT ALSO ATTRACT OUTSIDE VISITORS/PARTICIPANTS ✓ EMPHASIS ON HIGH-QUALITY MODERN FACILITIES AND VENUES Administrative and Operations Framework This Plan envisions a diverse park system, a wide array of recreational offerings, and efficient fiscal management. Obviously, none of this is possible without sound administration and operations management. This Plan necessitates strong leadership prepared to move the City in a direction that builds on its nearly 75 years of success in a very demanding and changing environment. Greater emphasis is placed on efficiency while demands and needs continue to increase. In addition to the afore -mentioned shifts in the delivery of the physical park system, the recreation programs, and fiscal policies, the City will increase its emphasis on partnerships, both traditional (such as with the College Station Independent School District) and innovative (such as with health care providers). 4," CITY OF COLLEGE. STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 The City will continue to improve on staffing and operations efficiencies and will ensure that the support facilities needed to keep the system functioning are efficient and effective. Finally, the City will continue to "tell its Parks and Recreation story", that is, it will increase communications with residents, businesses, and decision makers to increase the awareness of the system and its value, especially in terms of quality of life, property values, and health and wellness. The following exhibit illustrates the Administration and Operations Concept. ADMINISTRATION AND OPERATIONS FRAMEWORK • INCREASED EMPHASIS ON PARTNERSHIPS ✓ TRADITIONAL PARTNERS - CSISD ✓ INNOVATIVE PARTNERS — HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS, VOLUNTEERS, "FRIENDS OF" GROUPS, LAND TRUSTS, ETC • INCREASED AWARENESS & COMMUNICATION ✓ EMPHASIS ON THE ROLE PARKS AND RECREATION PLAYS IN PROPERTY VALUES AND MARKETABILITY ✓ EMPHASIS ON THE ROLE PARKS AND RECREATION PLAYS IN HEALTH & WELLNESS ✓ EMPHASIS ON THE ROLE PARKS AND RECREATION PLAYS IN COMMUNITY CHARACTER, QUALITY OF LIFE AND ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS One of the most successful of partnerships between the City and CSISD is the Kids Klub after-school program, which provides quality after-school enrichment in each elementary and intermediate school. CITY Of COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLN 2011 - 2020 Section 4 - Implementation Implementation of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan is anticipated to take ten years. TABLE 12 (pages 72 - 75) outlines the actions that must be completed to achieve the goals of the Plan. The Plan implementation is categorized into three time frames — immediate (1-3 years), short-term (3-7 years) and long-term (7-10 years). It is best that implementation of the actions and strategies identified in this Plan occur in a systematic and incremental fashion. In many ways, this Plan represents a significant departure from past practices and to ensure a smooth transition and offer adequate ability to monitor and adjust as necessary, this incremental approach will prove valuable. Further, though this Plan has at its core, approaches to improve efficiencies in the delivery of parks and programs, its implementation will no doubt require additional funding over the next ten COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION 4..""" MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION years. Given the current economic climate and real budgetary constraints of the City, the only hope of successful implementation will again rest with a thoughtful and incremental approach. The actions identified in TABLE 12 in this section, have been prioritized based on the most pressing needs and in Tight of existing conditions and trends. This list should be evaluated annually as part of the on-going review and evaluation of this Plan and should be expanded and adjusted accordingly through the life of this Plan. The recommendations described in this Plan require various methods to progress from concept to facilities and programs. These methods include: • Policy, Regulations, and Standards; • Plans and Studies; • Partnerships; • Funding; and • Facility and Program Development and Management. Additional information for each of these is provided in the following: Policies, Regulations, and Standards For the system to adapt and be successful, adopting clear policies, regulations, and standards that support the goals and strategies of this Plan are vital. Adopting new and amending existing policies, regulations, and standards will be necessary. Examples include amending current policies regarding the minimum size and type of neighborhood park acceptable to the City, the development of enhanced standards for the placement and development of neighborhood parks, regulations relating to the timing of payment of parkland dedication funds, and the utilization of recreation funds for allocating financial resources to recreation programs. Plans and Studies It is critical that this Master Plan remain closely linked to and consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan. The growth and development of the City has a profound impact on the demands placed upon the City's parks and recreation facilities and programs. Likewise, the placement of parks and facilities contribute significantly to the character and form of neighborhoods, corridors, and districts. Specific steps should be taken to ensure that annual review of this Plan is closely linked to annual reviews of the Comprehensive Plan. Additionally, it is essential that as specific neighborhood, corridor, and district plans are developed, the strategies of this Master Plan be integrated. This Plan will also cause the need for plans and studies focused on parks and recreation. One example includes the need to develop or revise master plans for each of the City's parks to enable adaption of the park to the revised prototype described in this Plan. This effort would be similar to that undertaken by the City in adapting parks to meet intergenerational standards. Other examples will include master plans for new neighborhood and community parks, and design plans for new facilities. COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION We141144 MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Partnerships Collaboration and partnerships have always been a critical element to the success of the City's parks and recreation program and this Plan calls for nothing less. Collaboration with traditional partners such as College Station Independent School District and the City of Bryan will need to continue and be further enhanced. Additionally, new or expended partnerships will be necessary with new partners such as the Convention and Visitors Bureau, local health care providers, and Home Owners Associations. Funding The availability of reliable funding for acquisition, development, operations, and maintenance will play an integral role in the success of the Plan. Due to current budget constraints and in the interest of being as efficient as practical, the Plan places a special emphasis on approaches that meet needs in the most effective and efficient manner practical. Some of the strategies identified in the plan will obviously have costs to successfully implement. The estimated costs of the strategies and actions are provided in TABLE 12. The primary sources for funding the Plan are outlined in the following: General Fund: This fund is relied upon for the majority of the costs associated with the operations and maintenance of the system. Revenues for this fund come primarily from property taxes, sales taxes, and fees for services. Capital Projects Fund: This fund is used to acquire and develop or improve parkland and facilities. This fund typically consists of debt service funds (general obligation bonds) and special revenue funds (tax increment financing, public improvement districts, etc). Recreation Fund: These funds are currently more of an accounting of general funds than an actual independent fund, though it certainly may evolve into such an independent fund. This fund enables accounting of the costs and revenues from individual recreation programs. Increasingly this fund will enable better policy discussions and choices regarding subsidy levels for each of these programs. Parkland Dedication Fund: These funds are generated through residential development activities in the City. Funds are collected for the acquisition of parkland and development of neighborhood and community parks to ensure that park and recreation needs associated with new development can be met without diminishing the levels of service available to existing residents. These funds are generally used to acquire new parkland, develop new parks, and to enhance existing parks within various neighborhood and community park zones. Funds must be used within the zones generating the demand. Field Redevelopment Fees: These fees are collected from various user groups and recreation programs for the purpose of maintaining and upgrading athletic fields in the City. Other Potential Funds: Other funds exist, though they are often very difficult to secure and generally have limited and detailed scopes for their use. These sources include public grants from the federal and state governments. These may include funds to assist in the development of parks, the creation of walking and biking trails, etc. The most common sources of these funds come from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION 44,444111141 MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Texas Department of Transportation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the U.S. Department of Energy. Additionally, limited private funding is available through a variety of non-profit foundations and trusts. As with the state and federal funds these are very competitive and often fairly limited in the funds available. Several of these focus on providing funds for under -served populations such as play facilities for children or park enhancements for the disabled. Overall, the estimated cost of implementing this Plan is approximately $58 Million (inclusive of projects that received voter approval in 2008, projects funded through existing and future parkland dedication or fees, projects funded through future bond initiatives, fees, and grants). It is estimated that approximately $2.5 Million will need to be spent on land acquisition over the next ten years for new neighborhood parks which will cost another estimated $4 Million to develop. It is estimated that approximately $4 Million will need to be spent on land acquisition over the next ten years for new community parks which will cost another estimated $7.5 Million to develop. In 2008 voters approved $13 Million worth of projects that are included in this Plan. Additionally, there currently exists $1.9 Million available in the parkland development fee fund to use in the implementation of this Plan. A significant portion of the proposed system is needed to meet needs associated with the growing community. Nearly all the costs associated with the acquisition and development of neighborhood parks will be recovered via the City's parkland dedication ordinance. Some portion of the acquisition and development of community parks and the retrofitting of existing parks to meet new demands will be recovered through this same ordinance, though much of the development costs of these facilities will need to be recovered through tax revenues via future bond initiatives. Operations and maintenance of all the facilities will continue to come from a variety of sources including tax revenue, fee revenues, and grants. It is estimated through the ten year planning period, O&M costs will increase $50,000 per year. It is estimated (based on the current parkland dedication ordinance) that if development occurs as projected, as much as an additional $25 Million will be generated. It is estimated that population growth, changing demographics, and evolving expectations will increase costs associated with recreation programs, athletic events, and special events over the next ten years. It is anticipated that these costs will be lower with the implementation of the strategies and action contained within this Plan and that a greater portion of the costs of these programs will be covered by fees paid by participants and attendees. For comparison purposes, it is estimated that meeting the identified needs without employing the strategies contained in this Plan would result in higher overall costs. It is projected that the successful implementation of this Plan will result in the delivery of the recreation, parks, and open space needs of the community at 30% less of the cost to meet the same needs if relying on the City's traditional approach to delivering parks and recreation facilities and services. Just one example of this is, if the prototypical neighborhood park were delivered in the traditional fashion, it is estimated that the development costs would be approximately $630,000 411P1114 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION with associated O&M costs equal to approximately $38,000 annually. If the same park type were delivered under the proposed model the development costs would be approximately $400,000 with associated O&M costs equal to approximately $27,000. Facility and Program Development and Management Successful implementation of this Plan will require the development and management of new and enhanced facilities and programs. Each of these will require detailed planning and stakeholder involvement. Early and frequent engagement of residents and other stakeholders will be critical to understanding the needs of the proposed facilities and programs. Implementation and Coordination Roles Collaboration will need to occur on a number of levels to accomplish the recommendations of this Plan. These collaborators will include city, state, and federal agencies; other municipalities, businesses, developers, and citizens. Each of these groups can play a role in creating change and enhancing the parks and recreation system. The following information outlines the responsibilities of these various parties. City Council will take the lead in the following areas: • Adopt and amend the Plan by ordinance after receiving recommendations from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and the Planning and Zoning Commission; • Support and act as champions for the Plan; • Adopt new or amended ordinances and regulations to implement the Plan; • Consider and approve the funding commitments that will be required to implement the Plan; • Provide final approval of projects and activities with associated costs during the budget process; • Adopt and amend policies that support and help implement the Plan; and • Provide policy direction to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Boards, the Planning and Zoning Commission, and other appointed City boards and commissions and City staff. Parks and Recreation Advisory Board will take the lead in the following areas: • Adopt, amend or modify the Plan for subsequent approval and adoption by the City Council; • Recommend changes in policies, regulations, and standards to the City Council that reflects the Plan's goals, strategies, and action items; and • Review development applications and public projects and programs for consistency with this Plan and the Comprehensive Plan. 4,5'' COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Planning & Zoning Commission will take the lead in the following areas: • Adopt, amend or modify the Plan for subsequent approval and adoption by the City Council; • Recommend changes in zoning and development codes to the City Council that reflect the Plan's goals, strategies, and action items; and • Review development applications for consistency with this Plan and the Comprehensive Plan. City Staff will take the lead in the following areas: • Manage day-to-day implementation of the Plan, including periodic coordination through an interdepartmental Plan implementation committee; • Support and carry out capital improvement and public works project efforts and programming; • Manage the drafting of new or amended policies, regulations, ordinances, and standards that further the goals of the Plan; • Conduct studies and develop additional plans; • Review development applications and public projects and programs for consistency with this Plan and the Comprehensive Plan; • Administer collaborative programs and ensure open channels of communication with various private, public, and non-profit implementation partners; and • Maintain an inventory of potential Plan amendments as suggested by City staff and others for consideration during annual and periodic Plan review and updates to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Planning and Zoning Commission, and City Council. Actions Preceding portions of this Plan have identified the community vision, needs and opportunities, goals, and strategies. The following information is presented to provide specific actions that are necessary to implement the Plan. Though these actions are more detailed than the goals or strategies, it is anticipated that each of these actions will further be supplemented by more specific detail found within various Departmental Business Plans, budget requests, etc. TABLE 12, on pages 72-75, identifies the specific actions, the strategy the actions relate to, the implementation schedule for the action, the lead agency, and probable funding source. Gna is Resource Conservation & City Character TABLE 12 - IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE Strategies Green the City park restoration, planting ng streetscape, etc. Implementation Schedule . c _ T r4s 0 >v Actions `a _ d n u o ° N V o Up•a e he ity's tree scope - an 2 Implementation Coordination 0 JtiQ w m Et a w U DS Roles Nc - a c v W and 0 Eo v-- u g oo Nu C Funding u w o ` o a 25,000 -o C 'a � o v c 0 v X Sources w m me t o. o U t UO _---__ c 0 E `m 0 c 0o o L p aC > N o 2 d 0 t 2v Develop Amend each Park Master Development Plan to include restoration/greening opps 1 ■■ PARD ■- - ■■...■■ Ip•a e e 1 ys Ir•an ores ' an 2 _— U2SI-Zrzflrie?f=17.•717iL....-u-.rTiTzMiL7iliGl7:•n 2 =a= Green Parks and Recreation Design and Operations Conduct educational classes and programs promoting Green practices and lifestyles 2 ■ PARD ■- 5,000 X ■...■■ 'romo e 1 er- ee even s, recyc ing e'o s, an• c -an-up campaigns 2 _— 5.000 X _---__ /1iT•1i7: 71r-'2r7mEr4m1747gTa-iAR%151.4 1 __ _- Policy Ise o soar powere• ras compac ors 1 __ PARD _— Policy Review and modify policies and practices to lead toward resource efficiency, waste reduction, and cost effectiveness 1 ■■ PARD ■- ollcy ■■...■■ s -ve .5T Th1 oi.x. GiTm-T;I-iTaBrallTh71iai9G - n- 2 __ PARD _— Policy ljilR{alr tztr .IlTixigi - ita"iSi^• irranIT -1 - .r1 .747=•l x4174--rmir 1P1:T 1 __ PARD _— Policy Utilize reclaimed water and rainwater harvesting where possible for irrigation purposes 1 '■■ PARD ■- Policy ■■...■■ wird[-rii--.1:urrri-aamirmwralni�SL•ZT•1Rii•- •r. it74. 1 __ PARD _— Policy Acquire green space for future use as parkland and also for protection of the natural environment 1 PDS ■- 1,000,000 X ®. X X ■■ Ise na ura er i ¢ers s u•ge, compos , c ippings, e c. 2 __ PARD _— Policy Ise environmen a ten• er•icn•es an• pes ici•es 1 PARD _— Policy dand apply bed-Recreati approach forirrigationand any off-site drainage produced by Parks and Recreation facilities and operations produced 1 ■■ PARD ■- Policy ■■...■■ on rnue ree 1 1 . sesigna ion 1 __ PARD _— Policy •evise e 1 s • o promo e increase. use o na ive rees 1 __ PDS _— Policy WT. . lirer111T--7fiSa:1711G7l' •. • n r a:larIFT. 74•1fi■T'i 1 Y • ii li >. 1 __ PARD _— Policy Pursue increased use of vehicles that use alternative sources (bio -diesel, propane, etc.) or are hybrid models ■ '' ■ ? PW ■- Policy ■■...■■ Utilize grounds maintenance equipment that is diesel, four-stroke vs. two-stroke, or electric 2 ■ ■ PARD ■- Pofcy ■■...■■ Ise sig ing an• 1 __ PARD _— Policy X UThi .[TiiT3r7- •YT•i74- 7•i7TatTalnlr Wqr - 6TS•'bT2: 2 ._ PW _— Policy Establish baseline information for College Station and benchmark against comparable communities 1 ■■ PARD ■- Policy ■■...■■ omp e e "a er -ecama ion - ase -rolec 1 __ PW _® 3,606,730 Preservation of open spaces through acceptance of land dedications and acquisition mp emen par an. •e.ica ion or.inance 1 PARD _— Policy s a• is or pa ter wi a an• rus 2 ®— Policy mp emen greenways acqusi ion program 1s _— Policy I Ra7I7T3ii7i,79,T,r'Ei�.7Tfdatull••r,u l I •• ___— 1 1,500,000 X TABLE 12 - IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE Goals Strategics Actions Implementation Schedule Implementation Coordination and Roles Funding v o c o 0 c O v O 0 V >IV < V Sources @ 0) aC ' a O U t U 4 c a, v > 00° 0 _c O d _g O y w ° ' N v o Z a °O ✓` 2• 0- `>° o d n rn O .. v 0 c> W y 4 a v. E 0 > y v O c t 2 0 0 E c _o tt o0' o O 0 ,n W C Health 8 Wellness Provide open space and parks in close proximity to residences *eve .p a •esign manua or •rversi o par pes 1 ___— Policy X _---__ Amend Citypolicies and regulations allowing for greater diversity of park types to meet dedication requirements ®■ PARD ■ ■- Policy ■■...■■ Amend City policies and regulations allowing for HOA maintained parkland/open space to meet portion of land dedication and development requirements ®■ PARD ■ ■- Policy ■■...■■ r11771. CS[-7•T•'Ti'<iiiR•iiCTd•1 i17-1M72aTi[371.[ab'I1Z77TZr '. 1 __.F1_— 515,000 _©M X Enhance existing parks and Develop or Amend each Park Master Development Plan to include facilities in every park that promote walking/biking . ■■ PARD ■. - ■■,.,■■ recreational mmodo in packs remain contemporary car example i Ensureoincorporating/accommodating incorporating/accommodating activities that are fikey to increase park use such as skate parks boot camps etc. , .. PARD .■ Policy .."'.. Ensure park development and delivery model is sensitive to tical demographics and requires participation of area residents ■ ■■ PARD ■- Policy ■■...■■ I rf iTd - rC�' -lniiatT-TmS rrm "' • - "-' rlt:rsTaT.T•ra _— _— Policy _ _---__ facifties to increase opportunities to be more physically active Complete improvements to Emerald Forest Park -_ __ __ PW X 169,000 X X -- X Complete improvements to Brothers Pond Park PARD X 160,000 X X -- X Complete improvement to Lemontree Park _—_ X 25,000 X X -- X Complete improvements to Anderson Park -_ ;_—_ X 100,000 X X X Complete the skate park at Southwood Athletic Center __—_ X 920,000 X X -- X Complete improvements at Lick Creek Park -_ �_—_ X 100,000 © x -- x Complete Wolf Pen Creek Water Feature __—_ X 3,500,000 X X _- X Complete improvements to Georgie K. Fitch Park -`:.. __—_ X 103,500 X X -- X Complete final phase of Veterans Park and Athletic Complex -__ —_ X 10,000,000 X X -- X Economic Sustainability Ievents nd the c mmunity events within the community ContinueuckJto identify andaevaluate opportunities s to support community events (such as Duck Jam and May Day Challenge Bike Race) 1 „ PARD -ED >: ■ Policy ,.1".. omp - e "o 'en ree es Iva re 1 P W 3,500.000 X -- X Support athletic events that attract out -of -community participantsrKZTYa Continue toopportunities to support and host athletic events ft ball y and soccer tournaments, such as softball tournaments, soccer tournaments, and Special Olympics 1 PARD X ■ Policy - r%f rf. t.125'[i Tir:T7.Yi77S-TIIM i-S•T•IiPl- riinitr7 1 _— PW X 930,000 X ---__ /eve •p ou eas ommuniy'or 2 __ PARD -PW X 7,500,000 X --X ecure an• or communi y par In one' ®_ PARD _— 4,000,000 X --X Ensure that parks, preserved open space, greenways, etc. are located within close proxmitiy to residences PARD -PDS Policy TABLE 12 - IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE Goals Connectivity & Mobility Strategies Link parks to larger transportation system Actions Implement the adopted Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan Implementation Schedule Implementation Coordination rn Q w `o E t °o. 0 0 PDS Roles and a E . `o o- u H c o N V a Funding a o U " o o < Policy Sources N `c E c `a) > t j o t_ O `c o 0 o L O N o > w 0 > N v 0 z > o ur c g...' 2 0 `o m `o > w ,d • r vii 0 E o r .c 14, c O 1 J C t d c W ■- v c ,- o o c 0 T U ■■...■■ 5 rn -0 m o p. o U t U pffamrnorrrr-rariitrratrwLT.L•'IT .. -r• i•n • in- .r ••r WTillillil_— 1 PARD -PDS Policy y Link parks to the greenway system Implement the adopted Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan 1 PDS ■- Policy ■■...■■ 11-ve • • t:TiT.Frrraarrra2a• • u - w..IATaTI •irhT 1liR-TT7T1 War 1 PARD -PDS _— Policy Use parksiofor furthereC implementation of the City's other adopted Plans 1 iliTa<T'6T.1%ST; -' - girl[ --fid • -r ' 1 PDS _— Policy the Developop ehensiv for park types based on their development context as defined in the Comprehensive Plan 1 PARD ■■ ■- Policy ■■...■■ Ensure park development and delivery model is sensitive to local demographics and requires participation of area residents 1 PARD ■- Policy ■■...■■ Parkland & Neighborhoo d Character Renovate and enhance existing parks and facilities Complete field redevelopment projects in various athletic parks 1 PARD ■- 1.119,204 X X x ■■ Krrorai a-mr—'L^•tatan1lTJ m•r.v-m-n 1 __ PARD _— R X ©-- X ompe e;ro ers'on•'or mprovemens 1 PARD _— R X X -- X ompe e • erry .o s 'ar mprovemen s 1 __ PARD __ 25,000 X X -- X omp e e emon ree 'ar mprovemen s 1 PARD _— R X X -- X ompee • n•erson 'or mprovemens 1 _ PARD _— R X X ompe e V niversi y' ar mprovemens 1PARD _— 105,000 X X -- X ompe e as ega e'ar mprovemens 1 __ PARD _— 15,000 X X -- X ompee an•s one 'or mprovemens 1 __ PARD _— 15.000 X X -- X ompe e eepec ase 'or mprovemens 1 PARD _— 41,000-- X X X •, ompee A. arrow 'or mprovemens 1 PARD 133,500 X X X `K•7;1:i-TMrerTrlratA0iW7lT1 m•r•v-m-n 1 __ PARD _— R X X -- X ompe e or ga e 'ar mprovemen s 1 __ PARD _— 18,000 X X -- X ompee ou wes 'at- mprovemens 1 PARD _— 268,000 X X -- X ompee romp on 'ar mprovemens 1 __ PARD _— 149,000 X X -- X rer T4-tf^[•TTIr'rm"I Rmr"mr47111.11 __ PARD _— 30,000 X ©-- X Meet future parks and recreation needs through a diversity of park types based on their development context as defined in the Comprehensive Plan 1'-v-. fr.M;17;r1a1=11ra7D.T.Rst1,.T.fi. ••- 1 PARD _- Policy ompe e is ree •a ure en er 2 PW X X 2,495,000 —©---__ Continue to explore opportunities for partnership in the development of a regional Park 3 ■■ PARD ■- Policy ■■...■■ 'eve op ou eas ommuni y 'or 2 PARD -PW _— Repeat X X -- X ecure an. or commune y par in one • 2 __ PARD _— Repeat X X -- X runs orm ; • • • an. 1 si e in o a specia purpose par 2 __ PARD X X-- 3,500,000 X X X TABLE 12 - IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE Goals Diversity in Recreation & Cultural Programs Strategies Develop a community center within the City Actions •en i a oca ion an. •esign or new commune y cen er Implementation Schedule v Ln Implementation Coordination Roles and funding p 0 `� o 350,000 '0 u. o v c UU_i , U X Sources 0) 0 p0 t o. V ©-- c a C Zr, > o N- L< O c o U - O v da j N o o ' ''' W 0 Z � o H F. 0 `o d w 2 0 ci atn J y v E p t a ° a 0 PARD r, s c t a Z E W _- 0 E p v u c a O 'U.. X `r__rraa^•-v-... .mm ni -n-r 3 __ PW -PARD _- 10,000,000 X X --X Provide high-quality youth programs and facilities omp e e into n en er . • • 1 ion 2 -_ PW _- 4,285,000 - X ---__ 'rov1.e programs as nee.s are i.en 1 ie• _' .... PARD _- Fees __-- X Continue development and programming of the Wolf Pen Districts as a unique facility ompe e "o 'en ree es iva i e 1 __ PW _- Repeat X --X ompe e "o •en ree "a er ea ure 1 __ PW _- Repeat X -- X on inue suppor o ar ig • uric eries - --�-- -- PARD X Policy X _---__ EarD y. identify and support signature events (Duck Jam, World Fest, Weiner Fest, Earth Da etc. th S� ■as p s" X Policy X ■...■■ Responsible Governance Identify projected operation and maintenance costs for facilities and programs and identity revenue sources to meet these needs Determine projections of operations and maintenance costs for each facility and program (existing and proposed) 1 ■■ PARD ■- Policy ■■...■■ Devise a ro ram for each facility to reduce and maintenance costs program Y operation1 ■■ PARD ■- Policy ■■...■■ 11- -571. .' ..• -.faiE.7a['LT•S•LR.7t�.... .o rlargatliTWIM •• 1 __ PARD Xy Polic Develop and implement the pay to play concept for recreation programs and facilities Complete and utilize recreation fund information 1 11 ■■ PARD -FISCAL Policy ■-■■■-- Conntiue to collect and use fee for field development/enahncement projects § PARD ■. Policy .■,,,■■ Seek out and implement partnership opportunities with CSISD, private recreation providers, private developers, land trusts, and others Evaluate and update as necessary all ILA's with CSISD 2 PARD Policy l'ir• �.T_ 11.1;1 7t1�P. 6`f�aZ.T.7.S.TiP1i1i1ritai2S•TiLT3:7 • R _ 1 PARD -ED X Policy u' if_'�iis3i['1alfil.r.t., T.i.l.1Ji.R•L^AI. • ria -T: ania 2 2 . PDS -PARD . PARD X X ■ Policy Policy .■,,,■■ Inventorycurrent private recreation providers and explore opportunities topartner Provide and maintain support facilities 061 79'0 .Sari It '1 'y'M•3•1'x'• -m-n 2 __ PW X 1,645,000 X ---__ •en 1 remo•eing upgra•e nee•s or' • ' 1 • •minis ra eve • ices 3 __ PARD -PW X 250.000 COLLEGE STATION PARKS ANO RECREATION // MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Monitoring, Evaluating, and Updating As part of any planning process, on-going evaluation must be incorporated into the implementation program. Continued evaluation of conditions and opportunities allow a plan to adapt and remain relevant over the course of the plan's life. Successful evaluation incorporates the establishment of descriptive indicators that track the efficacy of the proposed strategies and actions, understanding changed conditions, and potential re - prioritization of actions and funding based on the findings of the evaluation. To ensure the on-going relevance of the College Station Parks and Recreation Master Plan, the Plan should be monitored continuously and evaluated annually as part of the annual Comprehensive Plan review. Evaluations should, at a minimum, include: • Updated existing conditions and changed trends; • Progress toward implementing strategies and achieving goals, as determined through specific indicators; • Identification of obstacles hindering the completion of actions and implementation of strategies; • Report on any completed actions; • Status update of all actions underway for the current implementation period; • Outline of remaining actions scheduled for the remainder of the current implementation period; • Potential changes to costs; and, • Recommendations for changes in implementation schedule or action list. As part of this annual evaluation, system users, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, the Planning & Zoning Commission, City Staff, and the City Council should be actively engaged. A comprehensive evaluation and update of the Plan should be undertaken five years into its implementation. Interim amendments to the Plan should occur with changes, updates, or adoption of the City's Comprehensive Plan, neighborhood, district, and corridor plans, regional plans, and other relevant policies and plans. Other considerations that may warrant interim amendments may include unforeseen changes in conditions or trends such as population growth and land use and development activities. Wildlife is protected in all City parks. 41r1414 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION APPENDICES CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Appendix A COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Detailed Socio-economic and Demographic Information Comparison of College Station, Brazos County, and Texas Demographic Profiles* (Base year 2000 except as indicated) CHARACTERISTICS COLLEGE STATION BRAZOS COUNTY 2 TEXAS a Sex' Percent Male 51.10 50.50 49.65 Percent Female 48.90 49.50 50.35 Education Percent High School Graduates 93.80 81.30 75.50 Percent College Graduates 58.10 37.00 23.20 Employment Information Percent Unemployed 1.60 1.50 4.22 Income Per Capita Income (1999) $15,170 $16,212 $19,617 Percent of Persons in Poverty 37.40 26.90 15.40 Race/Ethnicity (%) Anglo 80.50 66.79 53.11 Black 5.40 10.80 11.61 Hispanic 10.00 17.88 31.99 Other 4.10 4.53 3.29 Population by Age (%) < 15 12.10 11.52 2.54 15 - 19 17.90 12.88 7.86 20 - 24 35.60 22.87 7.38 25 - 34 13.00 14.55 15.16 35 - 44 8.30 11.41 15.93 45 - 54 6.00 8.64 12.52 55 - 59 2.10 2.98 4.30 60 - 64 1.40 2.21 3.37 65+ 3.50 6.71 9.94 Median Age 21.90 23.60 32.30 This demographic profile from the U.S. Bureau of the Census does not exclude the 10,000 students living on campus. 'Source: U.S. Bureau of the Census, http://venus.census.gov/cdrom/lookup/908233823 (10/12/98). 2Source: http://txsdc.tamu.edu/data/census2000. 'Source: http://txsdc.tamu.edu/data/census2000 4 Source: Texas Employment Commission, February 2000 data, www.twc.state.tx.us (Labor Market information). COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Gic.1111 MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Appendix B Park System Inventory Summary 2010 NAME d Y 0 a WY a 0 N ce at. 2 a 0 JI- W K O W N a 0 Wa -.I 0) Z 0 J > H , zJZW0ZWWOYJJJO O ) Ua a W a > d W 0 0x 1- W a 0 W d F 3 J K re < Z J_ Um Z U O J 3 0 H N N d W Zi Q H W cc Y 0 0 < CO 5 W W w 0 h 00 - ia. a m 0 0 LL a W < 0 0 N Z a1 m W 0 > J 0 ZCU -Y7Q yQ a COF Z W YZ J a OTHER ANDERSON N 8.94 6 D 0 0 06 •1 • •1/3 •2 •5 30 "ANDY" ANDERSON ARBORETUM @ BEE CREEK A 17.00 6 D 0 1 • P •1/3 arboretum BEE CREEK C 26.50 B D 0 01 04 •3 • •1/4 0 2 0 4 • 0 237 BILLIE MADELEY N 5.14 2 D • BRISON N 9.20 6 D • •1/3 10 BROTHERS POND N 16.12 5 D • •3 •2 • • FP • 014 • •112 FF CARTER'S CROSSING N 7.34 4 U CASTLEGATE N 8.26 13 D • •2 •2 • 0 3 P •1/3 •1 0 2 CASTLE ROCK N 5.86 10 D •1 01 02 0 113 FF CEMETERY, COLLEGE STATION 18.50 D State Historic CEMETERY, MEMORIAL OF CS 56.50 D Aggie Field of Honor CONFERENCE CENTER 2.30 D 76 COVE OF NANTUCKET N 3.92 12 0 01/3 CREEK VIEW N 14.01 10 U School Site CRESCENT POINTE N 5.00 4 D •1/3 CY MILLER M 2.50 3 D • •1 • •FP •1/3 0 Police Dept EASTGATE M 1.80 2 D • 0 EDELWEISS N 12.30 5 D • •2 • •1/2 • 1F FF • 10 EDELWEISS GARTENS N 13.60 10 D • 0 2 • 0'1 •1 EMERALD FOREST N 4 59 8 D •2 0 1 •1/3 0 GABBARD N 10.67 6 D • •1 •1 • •FP •1/3 F F F GEORGIE K. FITCH N 11.30 5 D • •2 •1 • • 0 1 FF HENSEL (TAMU) C 29.70 B D 0 •2 0 3 •4 •2 • •1/3 • 70 TAMU JACK & DOROTHY MILLER N 10.00 5 D • 03 •2 • •1/3 • • 1 School Site JOHN CROMPTON N 15.26 7 D 0 01 • •FP • • • 1 50 LEMONTREE N 15.40 6 D 0 •3 01 • • 03/4 •1/2 01 30 Disc Golf LICK CREEK R 515.54 D D • •1.8 60 LIONS M 1.50 2 D •3 0 2 0 1 10 LONGMIRE N 4.16 5 D 02 LUTHER JONES M 1.80 6 D • •1 MERRY OAKS N 4.60 2 D •2 •2 • • •1/3 •1 NORTHGATE PARK M 1.59 1 U OAKS N 7.50 2 D 0 0 •7 •1 • •1/4 0 1 • Disc Golf CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 20II - 2020 PARK NAME d a Q W ON Z a ❑ N O m w 1 O Z a Z W Y a 0 K Q❑ ¢ 3 J H Z Q Z~ G 3 f W w J m~ m O W N LL p m OJ LL a m F J Q O d m W d < a Q a OTHER PARKWAY M 1.90 2 D •1 •2 • 6 PEBBLE CREEK N 10.20 11 D • •2 •3 • •1/2 • 1 F F F School Site RAINTREE N 13.00 4 D • •2 •2 • •1/3 F • 1 REATTA MEADOWS N 3.00 10 U RICHARD CARTER N 7.14 2 D • •1/3 • State Historic SANDSTONE N 15.21 8 D • •1 • •1/3 • • 1F FF 48 SONOMA N 7.16 10 U SOUTHEAST C 66.68 C U SOUTHERN OAKS N 14.49 10 D • •2 • •1/3 • 1 Disc Golf SOUTHWEST N 9.42 6 U SOUTHWOOD ATHLETIC C 44.70 B D 0 0 •2 • 0 2 02.3 0 6 0 4 • 0 544 Teen Center STEEPLECHASE N 9.00 5 D • •2 01 • 0 % 0 1 Dori Park STEPHEN C. BEACHY CENTRAL C 47.20 C D 0 02 0 1 •10 0 1 • •2 FP • 0 1 • • 1 0 3 0 4 0 2 • 297 Park Office SUMMIT CROSSING N 8.81 4 U THOMAS C 16.10 C D 0 0 •5 •4 • 0% • • 2 F 0 2 0 27 UNIVERSITY N 10.20 2 D • •2 • P 0.4 9 Dog Park VETERANS ATHLETIC RA 150.00 C D 0 0 •1 • •1 09 05 406 0 Vet Memorial W.A. TARROW (W. Smith) C 21.26 B D 0 0 0 •2 0 3 • •113 0 2 FF 0 3 SP 319 Lincoln Center State Historic WINDWOOD M 1.37 4 D •2 •1 • WOLF PEN CREEK C 47.17 C D 0 0 •1 01 • P •3/4 • 36 Amphitheater, l0 Disc WOODCREEK N 6.60 8 D •2 01 • • •1/3 •1/2 1 0 WOODLAND HILLS N 14.40 9 D Si 0 3 • •1/4 QUANTITY PARK TYPE TOTAL ACREAGE* 7 Mini 12.46 34 Neighborhood 321.80 8 Community 299.31 1 Arboretum 17.00 1 Regional Nature 515.54 1 Regional Athletic 150.00 51 Total Parks "' 1,316.11 Acres Developed Parks: 43 Parks @ 1198.10 Acres Undeveloped Parks: 8 Parks @ 118.01 Acres * The Conference Center and both Cemeteries are not included in acreage totals. 2 Municipal Cemeteries 75 Acres 1 Conference Center 2.3 KEY A - Arboretum C - Community Park D - Developed FP - Fishing Pond F - Open Practice Fields M - Mini Park N - Neighborhood Park P - Pond (Non -fishing) R - Regional Park RA - Regional Athletic Park SP - Spray/Splash Park State Historic - State Marker on site U - Undeveloped O - Lighted Facilities • - Unlighted Facilities VINI744 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF C)IIEGE STATION Appendix B-1 Private Sector And Other Public Facilities Inventory of Recreation Facilities in College Station COLLEGE STATION INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 1 Indoor Pool 4 Jogging Trails 12 Gyms 12 Playgrounds 13 Lighted and 4 Unlighted Tennis Courts 3 Football Fields 2 Baseball Fields COLLEGE STATION ISD FACILITY ACTUAL ACREAGE Football Softball Practice 1 Band Field Southwood Valley Playground A&M Consolidated Middle School Forest Ridge College Hills Playground 2.0 Acres 1.0 Acre 2.0 Acres 1.5 Acres 3.0 Acres 7.0 Acres 3.0 Acres 2.5 Acres Baseball Soccer Practice 1 Soccer Practice 2 Junior High Football South Knoll Playground Oakwood Playground Cypress Grove Playground Creek View Playground 2.5 Acres 2.0 Acres 1.5 Acres 2.0 Acres 5.5 Acres 3.0 Acres 3.5 Acres 3.0 Acres PRIVATE FACILITIES AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC USE 1 Bowling Center 1 Movie Theater (16 Screens) 2 Billiard Parlors 9 Dance Schools 5 Recreational Vehicle (RV) Parks 6 2 2 1 1 Health Clubs Golf Courses Horseback Riding/Training Ice Skating Rink Auto Racetrack Orif" CITY OF Cot LEGE STATION Appendix B-2 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Detailed Park System Inventory Summary by Park MASTER PLAN 2011- 2020 Detailed descriptions of each developed park, undeveloped park site, and major facility in the system follows. This inventory includes the size, the classification of the park, a description, date of acquisition, sources of funding, development data and background information. ANDERSON PARK Location: 900 Anderson, Corner of Anderson and Holleman Zone: 6 Size: 8.94 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1979 Purchase Price: $165,774.42 Park Description: Anderson Park was designed primarily to alleviate overcrowding on the few soccer fields that existed at the time. The park contains five youth soccer fields of various sizes, along with two basketball courts, a playground, a shelter with restrooms, and parking for thirty vehicles. Funding for development was through the 1981 bond issue. Anderson who was Minister of College Station A&M Presbyterian Church from 1928-1963. Park is dedicated to Reverend Norman Anderson BEE CREEK PARK Location: 1900 Anderson, off Southwest Parkway Zone: B Size: 26.5 Acres Classification: Community Park Date Acquired: 1946 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: In 1973, the City designated 18 acres of the City Cemetery for the creation of Bee Creek Park, the site of College Station's first swimming pool. Adamson Lagoon Pool, a 50 -meter pool with a separate wading pool, is named in honor of former A&M swim coach Art Adamson. The park also contains four lighted tennis courts, two lighted softball fields, a rentable pavilion that accommodates approximately 100 people, a sand volleyball court, picnic units, two covered playgrounds, and a concession building with restrooms. There is on-site parking for 237 vehicles. In 2001, 1,423 linear feet of bike lane was installed throughout the park. The Adamson Lagoon Bath House was replaced in 2009 for $1.2 million. Partial funding for this park was provided by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, in the amount of $207,850. The D.A. "Andy" Anderson Arboretum is located adjacent to the park. Ortr' COY OF OTTLEGF: STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION BILLIE MADELEY PARK MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Location: 760 Sunny Lane (access from City of Bryan, S. Rosemary only) Zone: 2 Size: 5.14 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: August 1997 Purchase Price: Donation Park Description: The land for Billie Madeley Park was donated by Edward and Billie Madeley during the summer of 1997. It is a heavily wooded site with a small creek traversing the center of it. As per Mr. Madeley's wishes, no buildings are to be constructed on this site. The 2003 development included sidewalks and small pedestrian bridges. The park offers good opportunities for nature study. BRISON PARK Location: 400 Dexter, off George Bush Drive Zone: 6 One of twelve Size: 9.2 Acres Memorial Tributes Classification: Neighborhood Park located in Brison Park. Date Acquired: 1947 Purchase Price: Donation Park Description: Acquired in 1947, Brison Park, formerly known as Dexter Park, was renamed in 1980 in honor of Fred Brison, a College Station City Councilman, Mayor pro tem from 1971-1974, and a member of the Texas A&M University Horticultural faculty for 43 years. The park has a one-third mile jogging trail and parking for ten cars. A seasonal stream runs the length of the park. In 2000, twelve period lights were installed in the park as a memorial tribute to the twelve Texas A&M "Aggies" who lost their lives in the 1999 Bonfire collapse. Improvements done in 2002 included new sidewalks, benches, the addition of a water fountain and pedestrian bridge improvements. BROTHERS POND PARK Location: 3100 Rio Grande, off Deacon Zone: 5 Size: 16.12 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1977, 1978 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication - 7.5 Acres; Purchase Price for 8.55 Acres - $132,834.90 Park Description: Brothers Pond Park was named for the one -acre pond located near the center of the park that was the playground of the Fitch brothers as they were growing up. The site varies in topography from a flat, open area to rolling, woods traversed by an intermittent stream. Development of the site includes pond and drainage improvements, nature trails, picnic units, half basketball court, playground, shelter, practice fields, and a 1/2 -mile jogging trail with exercise stations. Development funding was through a 1981 bond election. Texas Parks & Wildlife Department funds were used for pond renovation and lighting in 2001-02. Improvements done in 2010 included removal of existing gravel walking trails and installation of wider, lit pedestrian/bicycle paths. Pond shore renovations were also completed. (V/144.1141111 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION On OF COLLEGE STATION MASTER PLAN, 2011 - 2020 CARTER'S CROSSING PARK SITE Location: 2115 North Forest Parkway Zone: 4 Size: 7.34 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 2006 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: This heavily wooded site contains a utility easement. Development of this neighborhood park is dependent upon future funding. CASTLEGATE PARK Location: 4455 Castlegate Drive Zone: 13 Size: 8.26 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 2001 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: This park in the Castlegate Subdivision is approximately 50% wooded and 50% open. Development in 2002 included two tennis courts, basketball court, playground with rubber cushioned surfacing, benches, and a picnic shelter. Sidewalks border the park on all four sides. • The developer funded the development of this park. 3.91 acres located at the front of the subdivision, contain three large ponds and is considered a "restricted reserve". CASTLE ROCK PARK Location: 4245 Castle Rock Parkway and Rocky Cove Zone: 10 Size: 5.86 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 2003, 2005 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: This park, developed in 2009 - 2010, is approximately thirty percent wooded with gently sloping land, which abuts a small creek tributary. A playground with rubber cushion surfacing, benches, picnic shelter, and a third -mile jogging/walking trail are located in the park. Two athletic practice fields are also located here. COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Glic1411111 MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COL.LE&;F, STATION COLLEGE STATION CEMETERY Location: 2530 Texas Avenue South, between Southwest Parkway and Harvey Mitchell Parkway/ (FM 2818) Zone: 6 Size: 18.5 Acres Classification: Municipal Cemetery and State Historic Site Date Acquired: 1947 Purchase Price: $10,000 Description: The College Station Cemetery was created in 1947 from 31 acres bought near the Shiloh community, approximately two miles south of Texas A&M on Highway 6. That tract surrounded the existing four -acre Shiloh cemetery, which had been deeded to the Methodist Church in 1870 by W.G. and Josephine Rector. The A&M Methodist Church, in 1947, turned over those four acres to College Station to be incorporated into the City Cemetery. In 1973, the Cemetery was decreased in size when the City decided to designate eighteen of the acres for the creation of Bee Creek Park. The State Historic marker, dedicated in April 1992, serves as a reminder of the once thriving farming community of Shiloh settled by Czech, German, and Polish immigrants in the 1860's. Landscaping improvements were added to the entrance and the fountain area was renovated in 1992. A rear entrance was developed in 2004 with limestone walls, gate, landscaping, irrigation, and signage. CONFERENCE CENTER Location: 1300 George Bush Drive and Holik Zone: 6 Size: 2.3 Acres Classification: Conference Center Date Acquired: 1980 Purchase Price: Land Trade with College Station Independent School District Description: Originally built in 1949 as a high school, the renovated Conference Center opened to the public in June 1982. The Center is available for rentals to individuals or groups, with a large gallery, kitchen, deck area, and eight rooms in various sizes accommodating from 10 - 400 people. This location is ideal for receptions, dances, parties, and exhibits, as well as non-commercial, commercial, or political meetings. Rates and fees vary according to the type of group utilizing the facility. Ortr" CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COVE OF NANTUCKET COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Location: 1725 Parkland Drive Zone: 12 Size: 3.92 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 2005 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Description: This park in the Nantucket Subdivision is over 70% wooded with gently sloping land that parallels the State Highway 6 feeder road. Approximately one-third of a mile of sidewalk was constructed in 2007. Lighting may be installed in the future, but there is minimal development of this park. CREEK VIEW PARK SITE MASTER PLAN 2011- 2020 Location: 1001 Eagle Avenue, at Creek View Elementary School Zone: 10 Size: 14.01 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 2001, 2003 (7.127 Acres); Lease from College Station Independent School District (6.873 Acres) Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: This heavily wooded site is situated along a portion of Lick Creek in the Westfield Subdivision. Formerly known as the "Westfield Park Site", this park is currently undeveloped. Situated adjacent to the newly constructed Creek View School, this is another joint -use project between the City of College Station and CSISD. The lease of CSISD property will allow the City to build a portion of the park on school district property. The park will be similar in design and construction to the other school parks that have been built in other parts of the City, with such amenities as a playground, shelter, athletic practice fields, bridges, trails, lights and exercise stations. A basketball court is currently located on the school grounds. CRESCENT POINTE PARK Location: 2301 Crescent Pointe Parkway Zone: 4 Size: 5.00 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 2006 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: This park site in east College Station sits between two multi -family residential sites in the Crescent Pointe development, located off of Copperfield Drive between State Highway 30 and Highway 60. The park is approximately 75% wooded. In 2008 a one- third mile concrete jogging trail was installed by the developer of the Crescent Pointe Apartments. Cs," CITY OF COLLEGE STATION CY MILLER PARK COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Location: 2615 Texas Avenue, and King Cole Drive at the Police Station Zone: 3 Size: 2.5 Acres Classification: Mini Park Date Acquired: 1976 Purchase Price: Land trade with Clarence Miller Park Description: The Chamber of Commerce occupied this site in 1976, and the pond was used as a picnic area and a gathering spot for people to fish and watch the ducks. When the Chamber of Commerce moved in 1984, the City of College Station used the property for the MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 development of a new police station. In the process, over half of the pond had to be filled in for a new parking lot. "Service With Honor" by J. Payne Lara In 1987, the remaining pond was renovated and an aerator added. A one-third mile jogging trail, a shelter, and two fishing piers were also added to give this park a pleasant and enjoyable atmosphere to play and relax in. Benches on concrete slabs were installed in 2002 and a concrete sidewalk around the pond was added in 2006. Cy Miller Park was dedicated on April 16, 1988, to Clarence Ivan Miller, the previous owner of the site. In 2002, the sculpture "Service With Honor" by artist Payne Lara, was installed at the Police Station nearby. D.A. "ANDY" ANDERSON ARBORETUM Location: 1900 Anderson, off Southwest Parkway Zone: 6 Size: 17 Acres Classification: Arboretum Date Acquired: 1975 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: The D.A. "Andy" Anderson Arboretum, originally called the Brazos County Arboretum, was founded in 1976 as part of the USA Bicentennial celebration. The College Station City Council designated that this area would be used as an arboretum, i.e., a place where trees and shrubs are cultivated for educational and scientific purposes. On 17 wooded acres bounded by the Cemetery, Bee Creek, and Business 6, the Arboretum contains a shelter and an interpretive trail system that emphasizes native Texas plants. The Arboretum was renamed in 1986, in honor of D.A. Anderson, a former Mayor of College Station. Partial funding for this park was provided by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Bee Creek Park lies adjacent to the Arboretum. (*f" CITY OF COLLEGE STATION EASTGATE PARK COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Location: 902 Foster Street and Walton Drive Zone: 2 Size: 1.8 Acres Classification: Mini Park Date Acquired: 1938 Purchase Price: Donation Park Description: Eastgate Park consists of four separate parcels of land. Two are located at the corner of Foster Street and Walton Drive. The other two are open -landscaped islands at Walton Drive and Texas Avenue. This park land was donated at the time that the College Hills Estates Subdivision was being developed. The two islands at Walton Drive and Texas Avenue were improved with planters and landscaping as part of the Texas Avenue widening project in 1998. MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 "Eternal Winds" by Joe Smith lies in the background. The sculpture, "Eternal Winds" was installed in 2000 in the median at Walton Drive and Texas Avenue, as a permanent fixture in the park. The abstract sculpture was designed and created by artist Dr. Joe Smith from Caldwell, Texas. Planters and irrigation were added in 2004. EDELWEISS PARK Location: 3900 Victoria Avenue Zone: 5 Size: 12.3 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1996 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: Most of this park land is a floodwater retention area, but is used as practice soccer fields and an open play area. Site improvements carried out in 1997 included grading, seeding, planting of trees and installation of an irrigation system for $25,000. Edelweiss Park Full park development was completed in 1999 to include a playground, shelter with picnic tables, half basketball court, volleyball court, bike racks, walkways, lighting, fencing, and parking for ten cars. In 2003, a pedestrian bridge and trees were added on the south side of the park. (*.ff" CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION EDELWEISS GARTENS PARK Location: 500 Hartford Drive Zone: 10 Size: 13.6 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 2001 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: This park is approximately 60% wooded with a tributary of Lick Creek traversing west to east. The land is fairly flat except for the area near the creek. Full development in 2008 included installation of a covered playground, swing set, basketball court, drinking fountain, bridges, jogging trail, benches, picnic shelter, a boardwalk, and tree plantings. EMERALD FOREST PARK Location: 8400 Appomattox, off Emerald Parkway Zone: 8 Size: 4.59 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1986 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: Emerald Forest is one of the most beautiful native plant sites in the City of College Station park system. The 4.59 -acre site is heavily wooded and bordered on the north side by Bee Creek. Full park development took place in 1989 to include a playground, a lighted half basketball court, picnic tables, 1/3 mile jogging trail, and some area lighting. The design of the park was guided with the intent of preserving the native vegetation with minimal disturbance to the site. The Emerald Forest Homeowner's Association built and maintain the clubhouse, pool, and parking area that sit adjacent to the park. MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Park improvements scheduled for 2011 will raise the grade of the playground, which has a tendency to retain water during periods of heavy rain. Once the grade has been raised, a new playground, drinking fountain, sidewalks, and more area lighting will be installed. Drainage improvements for the entire park will be done. GABBARD PARK Location: 1201 Dexter Drive South and Haines Zone: 6 Size: 10.67 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Clie" CITY Of COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Date Acquired: 1978 Purchase Price: $187,802.67 Park Description: As a neighborhood park, Gabbard Park has proven to be one of the most popular parks in town. Purchased as a result of interest by neighborhood residents, Gabbard received substantial public input during the planning stages. Prior to construction, a Texas A&M professor was consulted to determine recommendations for renovation of the pond. The park is named in honor of Letcher P. Gabbard for his service to the community. Mr. Gabbard was head of the Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology at Texas A&M University from 1922- 1940. MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Recreational features include a playground, pond and fishing piers, shelter, 1/3 mile jogging trail, and practice athletic fields. Development funding was through the 1981 bond issue. A new fishing pier and sidewalks were installed in 2006 with additional sidewalks, lighting and a concrete fence added in 2008. GEORGIE K. FITCH PARK Location: 1100 Balcones, between Rio Grande and Welsh Zone: 5 Size: 11.3 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1977 Purchase Price: Donation Park Description: Fitch Park is dedicated to Georgie K. Fitch in honor of her dedication to her family. This park's recreational features include a lighted basketball court, practice softball fields with backstops, picnic units, shelter, playground, open play areas, and nature trails. HENSEL PARK (TAMU) Location: 502 South College Avenue Zone: B Size: 29.7 Acres Classification: Community Park Date Acquired: 1958 Purchase Price: Not Applicable Park Description: Hensel Park is part of the Texas A&M University system, and is designed primarily for the students of the University. In 1986, the City of College Station installed a playground and a fitness court. The park includes three pavilions, picnic units, playground, restrooms, jogging trails, volleyball court, fitness/exercise station, softball field, parking for 70 cars, and an open play area. The City of College Station provides limited development funds through the Park Land Dedication Ordinance and an agreement with Texas A&M University. The pavilions for this park can be rented through the Texas A&M University's Recreation, Park & Tourism Sciences Department at (979) 845-1626. The playground was replaced in 2004. GOY OF CoI.LEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION JACK & DOROTHY MILLER PARK Location: 501 Rock Prairie Road, at Rock Prairie Elementary School Zone: 5 Size: 10 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1988 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication - 5.0 Acres; Purchase Price for 5.0 Acres - $75,000 Park Description: This park, formerly known as "Westchester Park", was the first joint -use project for the College Station Independent School District and the City of College Station. A cooperative effort between the two entities led to the design and implementation of a facility that would serve a dual purpose. During school hours the park functions as a school playground and playing fields; the remainder of the time, as a regular city park for use by the general public. The College Station Independent School provided partial funding for the development of the park, in the amount of $75,000. The park was renamed in honor of Jack and Dorothy Miller in 1994 for their dedication to the community. MASTER PIAN, 2011- 2020 The park has two playgrounds, iron fencing, picnic shelter, basketball court, 1/3 mile rubber cushioned jogging trail with a fitness station, picnic tables, and practice fields for softball and soccer. The basketball court was covered in 2005. JOHN CROMPTON PARK Location: 201 Holleman Drive W. at Jones -Butler Road Zone: 7 Size: 15.26 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Dates Acquired: 1982, 1992, 1997, 2005 Purchase Price: 2.0 Acres, Park Land Dedication in 1982; 2.2 Acres, Purchased for $36,000 in 1992; 5.26 Acres, Park Land Dedication in 1997; and 5.8 Acres, Purchased for $72,055 in 2005 Park Description: The original two acres of John Crompton Park (formerly known as Woodway Park), were acquired in 1982 through Park Land Dedication. That two -acre portion was heavily wooded. Two more acres, purchased in 1992 for $36,000, consist of flat, open land fronting on Holleman. More tracts were acquired in 1997 and 2005. In 2006 this park was named in honor of Dr. John Crompton, Distinguished Professor of Recreation, Park, and Tourism Sciences at Texas A&M University. Phase I development of this park was completed in 2006, which included picnic units, picnic pavilion, basketball court, parking, bridge, landscaping, and sidewalks. Phase II development included benches, sidewalks, lighting, a covered shelter and aeration of the pond that was located on the property that was purchased. In 2009, the pond was re -shaped with a retaining wall added to the west side of the pond. NAME TRAILS SURFACE DISTANCE USE ALUM CREEK COPPERHEAD CUT DEER RUN ELM CIRCLE IRON BRIDGE TRAIL POST OAK LOOP RACCOON RUN SEDGE MEADOW YAUPON TRAIL MUSTANG TRAIL NATURAL 1.02 MI. PEDESTRIAN CRUSHED STONE .20 MI,BIKE,PEDESTRIAN CRUSHED 3ST3NE BIKE,PEOESTRIAN,EOUESTRIAN CONCRETE PEDESTRIAN NATURAL 1.14 MI. PEDESTRIAN CRUSHED STONE .46 MI. PEDESTRIAN �( NATURAL .83 MI. PEDESTRIAN WOOD DECKING .03 MI. PEDESTRIAN �^ NATURAL .40 MI. PEDESTRIAN CRUSHED STONE .34 MI. EOUESTRIAN,PEDESTRIAN .19 MI.7 LEGEND 1.HOMESTEAD SITE 2.OLD ROAD 3.OLD FIELD 4.NAVASOTA LADIES TRESSES 5.WEST PRARIE 6.OLD IRON BRIDGE 7.OLD FIELD 8.TILLANDSIA OAK 9.PLANDERA SLOUGH 10.NAVASOTA LADIES TRESSES 11.MIKANIA SWAMP 1 2.BOTTOMLANOS 1 3.HOMESTEAD/EAST PRARIE 14.MESA BIKE RACK 15.SEDGE MEADOW NOT TO SCALE ENTRY POINT 0 ;PARK! Cfl1TD00R CLASSROOM,,,, AWN ENTRANCE ROCK EENTRANCE PRARIE RD. VIM Mot OMIT MK UMW .Pc WTtekSTCWATfR RATLMET k PARK M NT AREA Ave •u" awe wra 0 0 MASTER PLAN F R PREPARED BY TAMU RECREATION (Sc PARKS DEPT. LICK C R EE < PARr\ AND PARKS PLANNING/CITY OF COLLEGE STATION c -,vs OZOZ - TTOZ NVld a31sV(N COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION ofieN-ft4 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION LEMONTREE PARK COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 Location: 1300 Lemontree, off Anderson - Zone: 6 Size: 15.40 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1976, 1978 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: Recreational features in this park include a half basketball court, gids' lighted softball fields, 3/4 mile concrete jogging exercise trail, playground, open play area, picnic units, pedestrian bridge, and a 30 -car parking lot. A nature trail stretches from Southwest Parkway, through the park, to the corner of Holik and Anderson Street. In 2005 a disc golf course was added and in 2006 new athletic field lighting was installed. LICK CREEK PARK Location: 13600 East Rock Prairie Road, off Highway 6 South and Green's Prairie Road Zone: D Size: 515.54 Acres Classification: Regional Nature Park Date Acquired: 1987 Purchase Price: Land Trade Park Description: This park was established as part of land negotiations to create a City industrial park. The site has a variety of plant and animal species indigenous to this area. Several miles of walking trails provide an excellent opportunity for hiking, cycling, bird watching, equestrian activities and nature study. In February 1998, the City of College Station adopted the Lick Creek Park Master Plan, which established an improved trail system, new entrance drive, parking lot, visitors' center, and outdoor classroom facilities. A separate equestrian entry allows access for those visitors who wish to ride horseback in the park. An archaeological investigation of this park was completed in 2001 by the Center for Ecological Archaeology at Texas A&M University. Seven sites were recorded within the park of both an historic and prehistoric nature. Although the sites lacked the structural integrity necessary to contribute significant archaeological information, the addition of trail signs or kiosks could help broaden the knowledge of the Bryan/College Station community. From 2003 — 2005, new signage, bridges, gravel trails, a parking lot, bike racks, benches, and wood fencing at the equestrian parking lot were added. LINCOLN RECREATION CENTER (See W.A. Tarrow Park) Vr11141111 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011 - I020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION LIONS PARK Location: 501 Chappel, off University Drive and Peyton Zone: 2 Size: 1.50 Acres Classification: Mini Park Date Acquired: 1967 Purchase Price: Donation Park Description: Lions Park includes a full, covered basketball court, playground, picnic units, and parking for ten cars. An iron fence, walkway, area lighting, and landscaping were added in 1990. The park was supplemented with sidewalks, new play equipment, a drinking fountain, and fencing in 1994. A second, tot -sized playground was added in 1999. Benches on slabs were added in 2002, with fencing and a new covered, lighted basketball court added in 2006. LONGMIRE PARK Location: 2600 Longmire, between FM 2818 and Deacon Zone: 5 Size: 4.16 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1977 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: This beautiful wooded park developed in 1983 contains picnic units, a water fountain and remains in a very natural state. A sidewalk loop was installed in 2007. LUTHER JONES PARK Location: 501 Park Place, bordered by Fairview, Luther, Montclair, and Park Place Streets Zone: 6 Size: 1.80 Acres Classification: Mini Park Date Acquired: 1964 Purchase Price: Donation Park Description: Luther Jones Park, formerly known as "Fairview Park", encompasses a small City block and includes one youth softball practice field and an open play area. Live Oak trees line a portion of the park perimeter. The park was renamed in 1996 for Luther Goodrich Jones. Mr. Jones, a member of the Texas A&M faculty from 1919 until 1951, was on the first City Council and was secretary of the School Board from 1941-46. He was also very active in youth programs, and in 1964 donated the land for this park. Light poles were installed in 1998. Ort,' CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MEMORIAL CEMETERY OF COLLEGE STATION AND AGGIE FIELD OF HONOR Location: 3800 Raymond Stotzer Parkway Zone: 16 Size: 56.50 Acres Classification: City Cemetery and Aggie Field of Honor Cemetery Date Acquired: March, 2006; June 2006 Purchase Price: $700,000; $700,309; and $45,000 Description: While a portion of the property that makes up this new cemetery was already owned by the City of College Station, three additional parcels totaling 54.12 acres were purchased in 2006 and the entire 56.50 acres was designated for the construction of a new municipal cemetery. MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 .... r `IIIII rr t;fI 'f The Cemetery, located at 3800 Raymond Stotzer Parkway, sits on the northwest corner of Raymond Stotzer Parkway and FM 60. Approximately 20 acres are designated as the Aggie Field of Honor and marketed to students, former students, faculty, staff, family, and friends of Texas A&M University. The remaining acreage has been designated as the Memorial Cemetery of College Station. Approximately ten acres was developed in Phase I, with five acres each designated the Memorial Cemetery and the Aggie Filed of Honor sections. Construction began in 2008 and Phase I was operational by the summer of 2009. MERRY OAKS PARK Location: 1401 Merry Oaks, off University Oaks Zone: 2 Size: 4.60 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1972 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: Merry Oaks Park features an open play area, playground, nature trails, picnic units, basketball court, and 1/3 mile jogging trail. The playground was replaced in 2001. Concrete trails, lighting, a drinking fountain, and park benches on concrete slabs were added in 2002. NORTHGATE PARK SITE Location: 306 Spruce Street Zone: 1 Size: 1.59 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: March, 2007; September 2009 CAff" CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PIAN 2011- 2020 Purchase Price: $260,000; Donation of $30,000; $413,880 Park Description: In March 2007, College Station City Council approved a contract to purchase .80 of an acre located at 306 Spruce Street in the Northgate area. The property, purchased from Dr. Clarence Branning Johnson and his wife Leslie C. Randolph, had been appraised at $290,000. The sellers were willing to sell the property to the City for $260,000 with a gift donation of $30,000, making this the first municipal park in Park Zone 1. In September 2009, the City Council approved another contract to purchase an additional .80 of an acre located at 310, 314, and 316 Spruce Street. The property was purchased from the Janie A. and Thomas H. Cargill family in the amount of $413,880 from the Parks Capital Improvement Projects Fund. The park is currently undeveloped. OAKS PARK Location: 1601 Stallings, off Harvey Road Zone: 2 Size: 7.50 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1970 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: Oaks Park features a pavilion with a barbecue pit, restrooms, and an attached deck area. Bridges and picnic units are scattered throughout the park. Partial funding for this park was provided by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in the amount of $91,252. In 1994-95, renovations were made to include replacement of one of the bridges, installation of a handicap -accessible playground, sidewalks, and a 2008, the basketball court was replaced with a new, covered, lighted basketball court. PARKWAY PARK Location: 901 Woodland Parkway and Munson Zone: 2 Size: 1.90 Acres Classification: Mini Park Date Acquired: 1939 Purchase Price: Donation Park Description: Located in a floodplain area, Parkway Park's primary use is to alleviate flooding in the surrounding neighborhood. The park contains a playground, open play area, a picnic table, and parking for six cars. In 2005, sidewalks, lights, drinking fountain, trees and a concrete rail fence were installed. sand volleyball court. In (10,"44 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION PEBBLE CREEK PARK Location: 401 Parkview Street, at Pebble Creek Elementary School Zone: 11 Size: 10.20 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1994 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication - 4.2 Acres; CSISD Property - 6.0 Acres Park Description: Pebble Creek Park, like Jack and Dorothy Miller Park, is a joint -use project between the City of College Station and the College Station Independent School District. The park has two playgrounds, basketball court, 1/2 mile of walking trails, 1/4 mile lighted jogging trail with rubber cushion surfacing, baseball backstops, practice soccer fields, and picnic shelters. Since the initial development in 1996, fencing, trees, irrigation, a tot playground with shade cover, benches, and shade covers for the existing playgrounds have been installed. A new covered, lighted basketball pavilion was added in 2010. RAINTREE PARK Location: 2505 Raintree Drive Zone: 4 Size: 13.00 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1978, 1982 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication and Donation Park Description: Designed to complement the surrounding neighborhood, Raintree Park provides a good example of park planning that integrates urban park facilities with a natural low -land ecosystem. This park boasts many natural amenities such as Wolf Pen Creek, sharp slopes, and 50' water oaks. Developed facilities include a playground, shelter, picnic units, and a seating area with benches. Development funding was through the 1981 bond issue. Renovations in 1992 added a sand volleyball court and concrete trails for walking or jogging. A swing set was installed in 2001. REATTA MEADOWS PARK SITE Location: 1108 Southern Plantation Drive Zone: 10 Size: 3 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 2006 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: This undeveloped park site is fairly open with several large trees. The property gently slopes towards a creek that is located on the south side of the park. This park is currently undeveloped. Vi44411111111 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN 2011-2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION RICHARD CARTER PARK Location: 1800 Brazoswood, off Highway 6 Bypass Zone: 2 Size: 7.14 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park and State Historic Site Date Acquired: 1983 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: Richard Carter Park is historically significant in that it is the site of the Richard Carter homestead and reflects the lifestyle of one of Brazos County's wealthiest men during the nineteenth century. Richard Carter was College Station's earliest settler, arriving from Alabama in 1831. His original land grant of one league (4,428 acres) and one labor of land within the Stephen F. Austin Colony, covers most of what is College Station today. Development of the park in 1985, an officially sanctioned Texas Sesquicentennial Project, included an interpretive center with displays about Richard Carter and the reconstruction of the original water well. In 1991, the graves of Richard Carter, his wife, and family members were moved from an adjacent site approximately 300 yards due north of the site, into the park itself. The original headstones and footstones were lost over the years, with the current headstones being replicas of the originals recreated through the use of old photographs. The park features an open play area, and a discovery garden featuring decks, seating, and indigenous plants. A bronze statue by Albert Pedulla was installed in 1986 and symbolizes the staking of the claim by Richard Carter, which resulted in the settlement of College Station and the Brazos Valley. Since original development, numerous improvements have been made to include the addition of lights, brick repairs, installation of signs and concrete sidewalks, drinking fountain, landscaping and irrigation. SANDSTONE PARK Location: 1700 Sebesta, off Highway 6 Bypass Zone: 4 Size: 15.21 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1983 Purchase Price: $251,040 Park Description: Sandstone Park originally provided soccer and baseball practice fields for residents on the east side of the Highway 6 Bypass. Renovations in 1996 added a shelter, handicap - accessible playground, 1/3 mile jogging/walking trail, one full basketball court, and parking for 50 cars. A unique "Trees for Life" campaign provided 166 trees to landscape the park and funding of the trees and their irrigation was supplemented with a federal grant in the amount of $18,000. (14," COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE STATION SONOMA PARK SITE Location: 2755 Barron Road and Highway 40 Zone: 10 Size: 7.16 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 2006 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: Sonoma Park is comprised of two sections. 4.75 acres are heavily wooded with a creek running through it. The remaining 2.41 -acre section is partially wooded. Both sections border the future high school site on Barron Road and on the east side of the Sonoma Subdivision. This park is currently undeveloped. SOUTHEAST PARK SITE Location: 7300 East Rock Prairie Road, next to BVSWMA Landfill Zone: C Size: 66.68 Acres Classification: Community Park Date Acquired: 2001 Purchase Price: $589,126 Park Description: Southeast Community Park is mostly open with flat terrain. There is a wooded area along Lick Creek that travels through the south end of the park. This park is currently undeveloped. Once the College Station Landfill is closed, the property will be added to this park site. See the preliminary proposed master plan that has been created for this site on the next page. SOUTHERN OAKS PARK Location: 4101 Alexandria Avenue and Southern Plantation Drive Zone: 10 Size: 14.49 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1999, 2001 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: This park, formerly known as the Shenandoah Park site before its development, is located on the south side of Southern Plantation Drive in the Shenandoah Subdivision. Constructed in June 2004, the park is heavily wooded with a basketball court, play equipment, picnic units, walking trail, picnic units, and a drinking fountain. In 2009, Phase II of the park was developed, which included sidewalks, completing a walking/jogging loop, lighting, additional landscaping and a nine -hole disc golf course. IT Preliminary Master Plan NORTH Landfill/SE Community Park SCALE:1 "=300' OZOZ - TTOZ'NV►d a31SVW COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION GAJ" CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION SOUTHWEST PARK SITE MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Location: 300 Southwest Parkway, between Wellborn and Welsh Zone: 6 Size: 9.42 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1982 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: Off of Southwest Parkway between Wellborn Road and Welsh, this park is a mostly flat, heavily wooded site. The park is currently undeveloped. SOUTHWOOD ATHLETIC PARK Location: 1600 Rock Prairie Road Zone: C Size: 44.7 Acres Classification: Community Park Date Acquired: 1980 Purchase Price: $267,900 Park Description: Southwood Athletic Park is College Station's first community park devoted almost exclusively to athletics. Designed by the staff in response to articulated community needs, the park facilities consist of six lighted baseball fields, two adult lighted soccer fields, three youth soccer fields, two concession buildings, four lighted tennis courts, two lighted basketball courts, and parking for 544 cars. The 75' Cindy Hallaran Pool and Bath House, the Southwood Community Center, and a picnic pavilion with barbecue pit, kitchen, restroom facilities, playground, horseshoes, and a sand volleyball court are also located here. Funding for this project was through the 1981 bond issue along with a matching grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, in the amount of $842,750. Numerous improvements have been made since the initial development of the park in 1983, some of which include the addition of irrigation, sidewalks, tree plantings, pool renovation, new dugout roofs, new athletic field lights, and tennis and basketball courts resurfacing. A skate park is being constructed on the east side of the park. Construction is expected to be completed by August 2011. COY OF COLLEGE STATION STEEPLECHASE PARK COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Location: 301 Westridge Drive Zone: 5 Size: 9.00 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1999 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: This park, located in the Steeplechase Subdivision, is a heavily wooded site with a tributary of Bee Creek traversing the northern portion of the park. Completed in 2006, Steeplechase Park includes lighting, a playground, basketball court, and College Station's very first dog park. Hardy roses planted along the dog park fence provide an additional touch of color and beauty to this unique park. STEPHEN C. BEACHY CENTRAL PARK Location: 1000 Krenek Tap Road, off Highway 6 Bypass Zone: 3 Size: 47.20 Acres Classification: Community Park Date Acquired: 1978 Purchase Price: $353,536.14 Park Description: Developed in 1979, Central Park was unique in that it offered the widest variety of recreational opportunities and was the largest of any park in the city at that time. The natural setting, originally the Arnold family farm, includes a two -acre aerated pond and ten acres of dense woods. A second pond was developed in 1983. Partial funding for this park was provided by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, in the amount of $296,138.00. MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 The Parks and Recreation Department main office is located here, along with the East District Maintenance shop. Amenities include four lighted softball fields, concession stand, three soccer fields with a shelter and restrooms, a picnic shelter near the pond, picnic units, two lighted tennis courts, sand volleyball court, basketball court, fishing pier, nature trails with fitness equipment, and parking for 297 cars. Soccer lights, sidewalks around the pond, drainage, and fence improvements have been made recently. There is also a pavilion located here that will accommodate approximately 200 people with a full kitchen and restroom facilities, which can be rented through the main office. In 2001, a 3,820 linear foot, lighted bike loop was installed and dedicated as the Wayne Bryant Bike Loop in memory of a local cyclist. In 2006, the Youngblood Memorial was constructed near the small pond with funds from Park Zone 3, in memory of Mr. Claude Rudd Youngblood. In 2008 the park was dedicated in honor of Stephen C. Beachy, the Department's long-time Director. 411' CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION SUMMIT CROSSING PARK SITE MasrER PMN, 2011- 2020 Location: Harvey Road, East of Copperfield Drive Zone: 4 Size: 8.81 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 2008 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: Two-thirds of this undeveloped site is heavily wooded with an existing pond. Future development will include trails, bridge, playground, shelter, and lighting. THOMAS PARK Location: 1300 James Parkway, off Francis and Puryear Zone: 2 Size: 16.10 Acres Classification: Community Park Date Acquired: 1938 Purchase Price: Donation Park Description: Thomas Park, although smaller than typical community parks, serves in that capacity by virtue of the fact that it is the largest park in its respective park zone. Thomas is also one of the oldest parks in College Station. Facilities include a 25 meter swimming pool with bathhouse, two lighted tennis courts, two basketball courts, picnic units, two playgrounds, two soccer fields, and parking for 27 cars. Over 1/2 mile of sidewalks was added in 1997; the playground and basketball courts were replaced in 2001; and a jogging trail with rubber cushioned surfacing was installed in 2005. A shelter/gazebo with picnic tables and a barbecue pit is available on a first-come, first -serve basis. In 2001, partial funding for this park was provided by matching funds from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Project No. 48-00-567, in the amount of $184,500, and Project No. 48-00-764, in the amount of $75,750. Thomas Park is dedicated to Mable Clare Thomas for the work she did for the community. UNIVERSITY PARK Location: 300 Park Road, off Spring Loop and Autumn Circle Zone: 2 Size: 10.20 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1982 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION GTY OF COLLEGE STATION Park Description: This is a heavily wooded park with some open areas gently sloping towards a creek. Development of this park was completed in late 2008. The park contains normal neighborhood park amenities, such as a sidewalk jogging/walking loop, lighting, play equipment, and a shelter. Off street parking is included for nine cars. Four of the ten acres of this park is a designated fenced canine station built specifically for dogs to socialize and exercise safely off -leash. The unleashed portion of the park serves as a dog park and has a variety of amenities including swimming ponds and open space for dogs to play in. VETERANS PARK AND ATHLETIC COMPLEX Location: 3101 Harvey Road Zone: 2 Size: 150.0 Acres Classification: Regional Athletic Park Date Acquired: 1999 Purchase Price: $1,500,000 Park Description: This is an open, fairly level park with a few wooded areas near the southeast and southwest corners. Development of this park was done in several phases and includes softball and soccer fields, parking, trails, pavilion, maintenance shop, and concession/restroom building. Phase I development in 2002 included two lighted softball fields, six soccer fields (two lighted), parking lots, entry road, maintenance shop, restroom building, trees and irrigation. Phase II construction completed in 2007, included a concession building, three softball fields, three soccer fields, additional roadway, parking spaces, a 500 -capacity American Pavilion, and the American Mile History Trail. In 2008, Phase II -A completed in 2009 provides the extension of Veterans Parkway to University Drive on the north side of the complex. MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Veterans Memorial Robert Eccleston Twelve acres of this park are designated as the Brazos Valley Veterans Memorial. The memorial was dedicated on Veteran's Day 2002. Included on the site are a memorial sculpture, plaza, the Lynn Stuart Pathway, and a War on Terror Memorial — the first of twenty-one planned memorials to be located along the Lynn Stuart Pathway. The Travis B. Bryan, Jr. Freedom Pavilion houses the computerized directory of donors and veterans. Veteran's Day ceremonies are held here annually to honor all veterans who have served in all U.S. wars. Gl."4411114 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PIAN 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE. STATION W.A. TARROW PARK Location: 107 Holleman Drive Zone: 6 Size: 21.26 Acres (includes old Wayne Smith Park at 2.46 Acres, Lincoln Recreation Center at 8.2 Acres and Wayne Smith Baseball Fields at 10.8 Acres) Classification: Community Park with State Historic Marker on Site Date Acquired: 1954, old Wayne Smith Park; 1978, Lincoln Center; 1994-1997, Wayne Smith Baseball Fields Purchase Price: $1,900, old Wayne Smith Park; $80,000, Lincoln Center; $316,800, Wayne Smith Baseball Fields Park Description: Lincoln Recreation Center was originally constructed as the A&M Consolidated Negro School in 1941 and was renamed the Lincoln School in 1946 when an athletic field was added. A fire in 1966 destroyed three classroom buildings, and the burned facilities were not rebuilt. The City of College Station leased the land and the remaining five buildings in the late 1960s and restored the site in 1972. The City ultimately bought the property in 1978 for $80,000 and dedicated it as the Lincoln Center in 1980. The State Historic marker on-site was dedicated to African American Education in College Station in February 1997. The Center has been utilized at one time or another as a neighborhood center, recreation center, senior citizens center, maintenance shop, and in 1969 it served as the former headquarters for the College Station Parks and Recreation Department. The Center now provides a variety of recreational and social services to the citizens of College Station, as well as an indoor gymnasium, playground, and a splash park. In 1987, the Parks and Recreation Department completely renovated the park to include a playground, benches, picnic units, and a full, lighted basketball court. Renovations to the park in 1994 connected Lincoln Center with Wayne Smith Park. In 1998 the Lincoln/Wayne Smith Corridor was renamed W.A. Tarrow Park in honor of W.A. Tarrow, a principal of Lincoln High School. This park is comprised of the Lincoln Recreation Center, the Wayne Smith Baseball Fields, and the 2.4 -acre property that once was Wayne Smith Park. The old Wayne Smith Park site was purchased for $1,900 in 1954 and was originally defined as a Little League field with bleachers. The Wayne Smith Youth Baseball fields, adjacent to the Lincoln Recreation Center, were formerly a residential area, with much of the land cleared in 1994. From 1994-97, the City acquired all of the properties for $316,800 to form one park. Construction, completed in January 1999, includes three youth ballfields, dugouts, bleachers with shade covers, and lighting. These fields are dedicated to Mr. Wayne Smith for his foresight and efforts in establishing the first Little League fields in College Station. The West District Maintenance Shop, originally located in one of the original remaining Lincoln School buildings, was moved into a brand new maintenance facility constructed here in 2001. CITY of COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION JI I?IZTIW DLIVANGS TO REMAIN MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 0 • Scale 1` = 200' PAR ; j* a LT/ PURPCi SPAC COVINIED 64iKETOALL COURT WAY BASER SO T. OLD' '..0 L. EI DLIM .TLD TARROW PAR MASTER PLAN NCR CITY (>F COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 A spray/splash park was recently added alongside Lincoln Center, with an expansion of the north entry area of the Center, and a large, covered basketball pavilion that is available for rental through the Lincoln Center office. The pavilion is available for functions other than basketball and will accommodate a seated function for approximately 800 or a standing function of 1,000 people. WINDWOOD PARK Location: 2650 Brookway Court, off Appomattox Zone: 4 Size: 1.37 Acres Classification: Mini Park Date Acquired: 1984 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: Windwood Park, located in the Windwood Subdivision, features a playground, picnic shelter, picnic unit, seating areas, decorative paving, and an open play area. The design has been adapted to the heavily wooded site in order to preserve as much vegetation as possible. In 2008 additional sidewalks and lighting were added to complete a walking/jogging loop. In 2010, swings were added and the playground, fountain and shade cover were replaced. WOLF PEN CREEK PARK AND AMPHITHEATER Location: 1015 Colgate Street, off Holleman and Dartmouth Zone: 3 Size: 47.17 Acres Classification: Community Park Date Acquired: 1977, 1991 Purchase Price: Existing Park Land - 7.69 Acres; Purchase Price for 1.59 Acres - $19,235; 5.04 Acres for $125,000 Park Description: Wolf Pen Creek Park and Amphitheater was developed as the first phase according to the Wolf Pen Creek Corridor Master Plan. This plan was approved by the College Station City Council in 1988. "Wilderness Awakened" J. Payne Lara The goal of the comprehensive plan was to recognize the interrelationships of drainage, erosion control, and recreation along Wolf Pen Creek, as well as to create a community attraction for residents and out-of-town guests. The park offers a variety of outdoor recreation experiences for all ages including walking, picnicking, and playground activities. The Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater offers a wide array of entertainment with outdoor concerts, plays, and festivals. It may also be rented for private parties. The Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, Project No. 20-00328, in the amount of $500,000, and the Nina Heard Astin Trust, in the amount of $100,000 provided partial funding for this project. WOLF PEN CREEK MASTER PLAN APPROVE[) I%IASTF.R PLANT .TLJLY 9, 1998 OZOZ - ITOZ Nrnd b3lsvW COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION 411,7**4111114 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Cnv of COLLEGE STATION In 2001, a family of bronze wolves found a permanent home in Wolf Pen Creek park. "Wilderness Awakened", located on the Holleman Drive side of the park, was designed by artist J. Payne Lara, who also designed the sculpture located at the College Station Police Department. The development of the upper and lower trail system in the corridor has been completed and includes trails, landscaping, benches, signage, observation decks, trees, kiosk, and emergency phones. In 2007, amenities were added to the park to include a disc golf course, plaza area, and construction of two new support buildings. One building houses staff, while the other building, known as The Green Room, includes dressing rooms and restrooms for performers, a meeting room and promoter's office. Both The Plaza and The Green Room are available for rentals. WOODCREEK PARK Location: 9100 Shadowcrest Drive, off Earl Rudder Freeway (Highway 6 Bypass) Zone: 8 Size: 6.6 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 1981 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: Woodcreek Park is a heavily wooded park with a small creek meandering through it. The design of the park retained much of the natural wooded areas, allowing nearby residents the opportunity to enjoy this beauty. The park has a playground, picnic units, a one-third mile jogging trail, nature trails, a lighted half basketball court, a lighted volleyball court, and two bridges. WOODLAND HILLS PARK Location: 4418 Woodland Hills Drive, North of Greens Prairie Road, East of Highway 6 Zone: 9 Size: 14.40 Acres Classification: Neighborhood Park Date Acquired: 2000 Purchase Price: Park Land Dedication Park Description: This park, located in the Woodland Hills Estates Subdivision, was the first neighborhood park in Park Zone 9. The park is partially wooded (approximately 35%) and flat. There is also greenway land adjacent to the park. Development of the park, completed in 2008, included typical neighborhood park amenities such as a playground, benches, picnic units, picnic shelter, sidewalks and lighting. PROPOSED USES DISC GOLF ARCHERY TRAILS PARKING RESTROOMS PAVILION BORDERS OF FORMER LANDFILL AREAS TRAILS TO CONNECT TO GREENWAY TRAIL SYSTEM (LICK CREEK) HIKE/BIKE TRAILS HIGHWAY 6 LUTHER JONES LANDFILL SITE CONCEPTUAL PARK PLAN I re OZOZ - T rOZ NV7d 131SVw COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION (141P.4 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011-2020 OTY OF CoLLE&.E S A7ION Appendix C Detailed Recreation Program Information The College Station Parks and Recreation Department offers a variety of programs and special events. Program areas include athletics, aquatics, heritage programs, Library programs, instruction, senior services, and youth and after-school programming. Special events include the Starlight Music Series, independent events hosted at the Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater, Christmas in the Park, and various special athletic events. Athletic Programs: In athletics, the Department offers programs for both youth and adults. The youth sports include basketball, fast pitch softball, flag football, and volleyball. The Challenger Sports Series, for children with special needs, offers such programs as Challenger Bowling and Challenger Basketball. Adult sports include fast and slow pitch softball, flag football, and volleyball. Additional athletic activities that cross into the aquatic programs include swim team and stroke clinic. Based on customer requests and observation of trends in the community, the Department has introduced an adult co-ed kickball program and expects to expand its athletic program to include a third season of youth fast pitch softball and a second season of adult flag football. Co-ed Kickball has just gained recognition by the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation as a sanctioned sport. Aquatic Programs: Aquatic programs include the operation of three city -owned outdoor facilities and one College Station Independent School District indoor pool. In addition, a spray park at Lincoln Recreation Center is operated by the Aquatics Division. Aquatic special events are planned, organized, and conducted to meet the needs of the clientele. Some of these annual events include Texas SuperGuard competition, Texas Public Pool Council, Doggie Swim Day, Pool Trout Fish -Out, Christmas in July, Fourth of July celebrations, birthday parties, and private rentals. Heritage Programs: Heritage programs include the production of Project HOLD, support for the City's Historic Preservation Committee, historic markers, and Oral History Projects. One of the most popular programs is the Exploring History Lunch Lecture Series. Instruction and Xtra Education: Instruction and Xtra Education offer classes year-round for participants to learn new hobbies, expand their knowledge, and participate in group activities. This is College Station's version of community education. Many of the classes are held in non -City facilities and are matched with the most appropriate site. Swimming lessons and water fitness classes are offered year-round, serving participants from a seven -county area. Library Services: The Larry J. Ringer Public Library programs include the Summer Reading Program, "Babies and Books" which is a part of the Story Time for Toddlers Program. Senior Services: Programs in Senior Services include a Computer Club, World Passport Program, Senior Games, a Senior Expo, day trips, dances, and a variety of classes from the Xtra Education program tailored to senior COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION 41C4144 MASTER PIAN 2011- 2020 CITY OF COI LEGE STATION interests and schedules. Future plans include the development of full service programs in a proposed senior center being considered as a part of a future bond program, which would allow expansion of the congregate meal program, exercise classes, and an increase in programs offered through Xtra Education. Youth and After -School Programs: Youth and after-school programs are offered at the EXIT Teen Center and the Lincoln Recreation Center. These two programs reach out to participants from six years of age to the young - at -heart adults, offering recreation and enrichment programs not just during the school year, but during the evenings, on weekends, and throughout the summer as well. The Kids Klub Program, an after-school recreation program for Kindergarten through sixth grade, is conducted jointly with the College Station Independent School District. This program is held at each elementary and middle school campus throughout College Station at nine sites. The growth of this program is based on growth within the School District. The Starlight Music Series: The Starlight Music Series is a free community concert series sponsored by College Station Utilities. This series has been very successful over the past six years. In upcoming years, the emphasis will be to group the concerts together and host fewer, but larger, events. Independent concerts and events hosted at the Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater include a variety of events from the annual Earth Day celebration to the Duck Jam Concert. Christmas in the Park: Christmas in the Park is a free community event held for two to three weekends in late November and early December. The annual festivities include free live entertainment, refreshments, hayrides, and visits with Santa, while enjoying the lighting displays throughout Stephen C. Beachy Central Park. This event is over twenty-eight years old and is an annual favorite of the community. Current plans are to continue the event, with the future possibility of relocating it to the Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater and trails. Hosted Athletic Events: The City of College Station hosts many local, state, and national athletic events throughout the year, to include soccer, flag football, basketball, and youth and adult softball tournaments. These events are sanctioned by a variety of governing bodies and are played at city and, if needed, School District facilities. These events serve as economic engines for tourism and can generate over one million dollars in economic activity in one week's time. The Department will continue to host these events while exploring new ways to bring additional athletic events to College Station. 1.41 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CITY OF COLLEGE. STATION Appendix D Parks and Recreation Department Organizational Charts and Budget Summary Fiscal Year 2010-11 PARKS AND RECREATION CITY OF COLLEGE STATION City Manager 1 Assistant City Manager Director I I Assistant Director Operations Administration Urban Landscapes L Cemetery Recreation Special Facilities Parks Operations West District — East District South District 79 Senior Services Athletics Conference Center Aquatics Programs & Special Events Concessions H/M Athletic Programs Kids Klub Lincoln Center Instruction Youth Recreation Library Heritage Programs City of College Station Parks and Recreation Department Summary DIVISION EXPENDITURE BY DIVISION Revised Estimated Approved Approved % Change in Actual Budget Year -End Base Budget Budget Budget from FY09 FY10 FY10 FY11 FY11 FY10 to FY11 Administration Recreation Special Facilities* Parks Operations Forestry $ 853,201 $ 807,535 $ 815,377 $ 764,104 $ 764,104 -5.38% 2,033,830 1,933,641 1,978,120 1,374,335 1,388,335 -28.20% 2,359,454 2,159,969 2,203,511 1,956,078 1,956,078 -9.44% 2,504,260 2,544,982 2,426,841 2,660,919 2,671,899 4.99% 1,466,692 1,418,783 1,457,971 1,468,611 1,568,611 10.56% DEPARTMENT TOTAL $ 9,217,437 $ 8,864,910 $ 8,881,820 $ 8,224,047 $ 8,349,027 -5.82% CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE BY CLASSIFICATION Revised Estimated Approved Approved % Change in Actual Budget Year -End Base Budget Budget Budget from FY09 FY10 FY10 FY11 FY11 FY10 to FY11 Salaries & Benefits Supplies Maintenance Purchased Services Capital Outlay $ 5,778,399 $ 5,827,017 $ 5,725,212 $ 5,435,271 $ 5,435,271 -6.72% 679,274 582,897 602,351 484,418 498,418 -14.49% 448,527 331,320 352,169 337,437 337,437 1.85% 2,307,523 2,123,676 2,191,418 1,955,060 1,966,040 -7.42% 3,714 - 10,670 11,861 111,861 N/A DEPARTMENT TOTAL $ 9,217,437 $ 8,864,910 $ 8,881,820 $ 8,224,047 $ 8,349,027 -5.82% DIVISION PERSONNEL SUMMARY BY ACTIVITY Revised Approved Approved % Change in Actual Actual Budget Base Budget Budget Budget from FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY11 FY10 to FY11 Administration Recreation Special Facilities* Parks Operations Urban Landscapes 10.50 16.50 44.50 40.00 19.50 10.50 17.50 45.50 40.00 19.50 10.50 17.50 45.50 40.00 19.50 10.50 13.00 45.00 37.00 18.50 10.50 12.00 41.00 37.00 18.50 0.00% -31.43% -9.89% -7.50% -5.13% DEPARTMENT TOTAL 131.00 133.00 133.00 124.00 119.00 -10.53% * Heritage Programs moved from Public Communications to Special Facilities in FY09. 4 FTE's submitted as a permanent reduction in FY11 10 FTE's are being transferred to the new Recreation Fund in FY11 ** Costs associated with several sports programs, instruction, and concessions totaling $762,338 were removed from the General Fund budget and added to the Recreation Fund budget in FY11. Service Level Adjustments Lights Replacement for Christmas in the Park Irrigation Controller Replacement Increase in Cost of Hybrid Vehicles One -Time Recurring Total $ 14,000 $ - $ 14,000 100,000 100,000 10,980 10,980 Parks and Recreation SLA TOTAL 80 $ 124,980 $ - $ 124,980 City of College Station Parks Xtra Education Fund Operations & Maintenance Summary DEPARTMENT EXPENDITURE BY ACTIVITY Revised Estimated Approved Approved % Change in Actual Budget Year -End Base Budget Budget Budget from FY09 FY10 FY10 FY11 FY11 FY10 to FY11 Parks Xtra Education $ 88,032 $ 96,474 $ 94,563 $ 95,555 $ 95,555 -0.95% FUND TOTAL $ 88,032 $ 96,474 $ 94,563 S 95,555 $ 95,555 -0.95% CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE BY CLASSIFICATION Revised Estimated Approved Approved % Change in Actual Budget Year -End Base Budget Budget Budget from FY09 FY10 FY10 FY11 FY11 FY10 to FY11 Salaries & Benefits $ 9,487 $ 10,835 $ 8,924 S 11,086 $ 11,086 2.32% Supplies 4,868 14,080 14,080 13,900 13,900 -1.28% Maintenance - - - - - N/A Purchased Services 73,677 71,559 71,559 70,569 70,569 -1.38% Capital Outlay - - - N/A FUND TOTAL $88,032 $96,474 $ 94,563 $ 95,555 $ 95,555 -0.95% DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL SUMMARY BY ACTIVITY Revised Approved Approved % Change in Actual Actual Budget Base Budget Budget Budget from FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY11 FY10 to FY11 Parks Xtra Education 0.00% FUND TOTAL 0.00% 131 City of College Station Parks Xtra Education Fund Summary FY10 FY10 FY11 FY11 %Change in FY09 Revised Year -End Approved Approved Budget from Actual Budget Estimate Base Budget Budget FY10 to FY11 Beginning Fund Balance $ 16,328 $ 17,263 $ 17,263 $ 23,739 $ 23,739 REVENUES Xtra Education Revenues $ 99,016 $ 94,759 $ 116,400 $ 94,759 $ 94,759 0.00% Investment Earnings 246 100 300 400 400 300.00% Other - - - - 0.00% Total Revenues $ 99,262 $ 94,859 $ 116,700 $ 95,159 $ 95,159 0.32% Total Funds Available 115,590 $112,122 $ 133,963 $ 118,898 $ 118,898 6.04% EXPENDITURES Xtra Education Programs $ 88,032 $ 96,474 $ 94,563 $ 95,555 $ 95,555 -0.95% Contingency - 372 - - -100.00% General & Administrative Transfer 10,281 15,661 15,661 19,214 19,214 22.69% Total Expenditures $ 98,313 $112,507 $ 110,224 $ 114,769 $ 114,769 2.01% Increase/Decrease in Fund Balance $ 949 $ (17,648) $ 6,476 $ (19,610) $ (19,610) Measurement Focus Adjustment $ (14) Ending Fund Balance $ 17,263 $ (385) $ 23,739 $ 4,129 $ 4,129 Parks Xtra Education Fund - Sources Xtra Education Revenues 99.58% Investment Earnings 0.42% Parks Xtra Education Fund - Uses Xtra Education Programs 83% G&A Transfer 17% Established in FY96, Parks Xtra Education is a joint effort of the City of College Station and the College Station Independent School District (CSISD) to provide community-based programs. This fund is prepared on the modified accrual basis of accounting. Under this basis revenues are recognized when they become measurable and available to finance expenditures of the current period. Expenditures are recognized when the related fund liability is incurred with the exception of several items. The full listing of these exceptions can be found in the Financial Policies in the Appendix. Registration fees provide the primary funding for the Parks Xtra Education Fund. Revenues are estimated to be $116,700 in FY10, and $95,159 in FY11. Expenditures for FYI 1 are approved in the amount of $114,769. These funds include $95,555 to cover the cost of instructors, supplies, equipment, and various other program -related expenses. The remaining $19,214 is allocated for general and administrative transfer related to expenses incurred by the program. 130 City of College Station Recreation Fund Department Summary EXPENDITURE BY DIVISION Revised Estimated Approved Approved % Change in Actual Budget Year -End Base Budget Budget Budget from DIVISION FY09 FY10 FY10 FY11 FY11 FY10 to FY11 Adult Flag Football Adult Softball Adult Volleyball Youth Basketball Youth Flag Football Youth Girls Softball Youth Volleyball Adult Kickball Concessions Tennis Instruction SW Center -Teen SW Center -Senior $ - $ - $ - $ 40,086 $ 40,086 N/A - - 174,581 174,581 N/A - - - 45,019 45,019 N/A - - 68,490 68,490 N/A - - 54,283 54,283 N/A - - - 90,744 90,744 N/A - - - 41,244 41,244 N/A - - - 45,612 45,612 N/A - - 114,000 114,000 N/A - - - 30,945 30,945 N/A - - - 59,485 59,485 N/A - - - 170,970 170,970 N/A Recreation Fund Total $ $ 935,459 $ 935,459 N/A CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE BY CLASSIFICATION Revised Estimated Approved Approved % Change in Actual Budget Year -End Base Budget Budget Budget from FY09 FY10 FY10 FY11 FY11 FY10 to FY11 Salaries & Benefits Supplies Maintenance Purchased Services Capital Outlay $ $ - $ - $ 262,589 $ 262,589 N/A - - - 129,116 129,116 N/A - - 4,423 4,423 N/A 539,331 539,331 N/A - - - N/A Recreation Fund Total - $ $ - $ 935,459 $ 935,459 N/A DIVISION PERSONNEL SUMMARY BY DIVISION Revised Approved Approved % Change in Actual Actual Budget Base Budget Budget Budget from FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY11 FY10 to FY11 Concessions Instruction Sports Programs SW Center -Senior SW Center -Teen 3.00 3.00 N/A 0.50 0.50 N/A 1.50 1.50 N/A 1.00 1.00 N/A 4.00 4.00 N/A Recreation Fund Total 10.00 10.00 N/A 134 Description City of College Station Recreation Program Summary Adult Flag Adult Adult Youth Youth Flag Youth Girls Youth Adult SW Center SW Center Tennis Total All Football Softball Volleyball Basketball Football Softball Volleyball Kickball Concessions Teen Senior Instruction Programs Rec Fund Fee Revenues 8,125 113,340 21,000 51,600 25,250 22,500 22,980 7,280 114,000 2,100 160 19,000 407,335 Total Revenues 8,125 113,340 21,000 51,600 25,250 22,500 22,980 7,280 114,000 2,100 160 19,000 Direct Expenditures 10,305 104,391 17,628 37,023 17,674 25,115 13,853 7,134 100,763 170,970 59,485 18,713 Indirect Program Expenditures 21,500 61,909 19,110 23,186 28,328 57,348 19,110 30,197 4,953 12,194 Indirect Park Admin Expenditures 8,281 8,281 8,281 8,281 8,281 8,281 8,281 8,281 8,284 38 407,335 583,054 277,835 74,570 Total Expenditures 40,086 174,581 45,019 68,490 54,283 90,744 41,244 45,612 114,000 170,970 59,485 30,945 Subsidy From General Fund 31,961 61,241 24,019 16,890 29,033 68,244 18,264 38,332 - 168,870 59,325 11,945 935,459 528,124 Total Sports Programs 60% 132 Recreation Fund Uses Concessions 12% Instruction Fees 3% SW Center 25% Lot Sales 94% Memorial Cemetery Fund - Sources Investment Earnings 6% This fund is prepared on the modified accrual basis of accounting. Under this basis, revenues are recognized when they become measurable and available to finance expenditures of the current period. Expenditures are recognized when the related fund liability is incurred with the exception of several items. The full listing of these exceptions can be found in the Financial Policies. The Memorial Cemetery Fund is a Governmental Fund. The fund accounts for two thirds of the sales of cemetery lots and other revenues that are accrued through the new Memorial Cemetery, which includes the Aggie Field of Honor. For FY11, estimated revenue earnings are included at $266,247. Revenues are anticipated from the sale of lots at the new site and from investment earnings. Plot sales are well below projected levels. An expenditure in the amount of $2,764 is included in the FY11 approved budget for the General and Administrative transfer. The FY11 estimated ending fund balance is anticipated to increase 30% when compared to the FY10 estimated ending fund balance. This is a result of additional anticipated lot sales. 136 ATION LIBRARY OLLEGE STATION 1 ities imunity Librarian 89 City of College Station Library Department Summary DIVISION EXPENDITURE BY DIVISION Revised Estimated Approved Approved % Change in Actual Budget Year -End Base Budget Budget Budget from FY09 FY10 FY10 FY11 FY11 FY10 to FY11 Library $ 1,119,768 $ 1,077,922 $ 1,077,922 $ 1,049,801 $ 1,049,801 -2.61% DEPARTMENT TOTAL $ 1,119,768 $ 1,077,922 $ 1,077,922 $ 1,049,801 $ 1,049,801 -2.61% CLASSIFICATION EXPENDITURE BY CLASSIFICATION Revised Estimated Approved Approved % Change in Actual Budget Year -End Base Budget Budget Budget from FY09 FY10 FY10 FY11 FY11 FY10 to FY11 Salaries & Benefits Supplies Maintenance Purchased Services Capital Outlay $ - $ - $ - $ - $ N/A 864 667 667 1,026 1,026 53.82% 10,820 1,908 1,908 1,875 1,875 -1.73% 993,084 1,035,347 1,035,347 1,026,900 1,026,900 -0.82% 115,000 40,000 40,000 20,000 20,000 -50.00% DEPARTMENT TOTAL $ 1,119,768 $ 1,077,922 $ 1,077,922 $ 1,049,801 $ 1,049,801 -2.61% DIVISION PERSONNEL SUMMARY BY DIVISION Revised Approved Approved % Change in Actual Actual Budget Base Budget Budget Budget from FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY11 FY10 to FY11 Library N/A DEPARTMENT TOTAL N/A Service Level Adjustments One -Time Recurring Total Library SLA TOTAL 90 Wr" CFIY OF COLLEGE STATION Appendix D - 1 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION Parks and Recreation Department Capital Improvements Schedule Fiscal Year-end September 30, 2010 (Approved and Funded Projects, Not Prioritized) MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS STATUS PROJECT MANAGER PROJECT # BUDGET COMPLETION FUNDINGDATE SOURCE EXPECTED/ACTUAL FINAL COST Pebble Creek Basketball Pavilion Completed D. Wood PK0914 $240,000 GOB 2008 8/10 8/10 $198,344 Skate Park Design Completed Wood/CPD PK0911 $105,000 GOB 2008 7/10 7/10 $179,037 Brothers Pond Park Improvements In Design D. Wood PK1003 $164,000 GOB 2008 6/11 Emerald Forest Park Improvements In Design P. Vanecek PK0713 $60,000 GOB 2008 7/11 University Park Improvements In Design D. Wood PK0410 $40,000 GOB 2008 7/11 Central Concessions Design In Design Vanecek/CPD PK1001 $96,000 GOB 2008 4/11 WPC Festival Site & Fountain In Design D. Schmitz/CPD WP0901 $3.5 M TIF Funds 1/12 Creek View Neighborhood Park On Hold P. Vanecek PK0906 $515,000 GOB 2008 2012 Central Park Stimulus Improvements Under Construction D. Wood GG1012 $210,000 Stimulus Funds 6/11 Veterans Park Stimulus Improvements Under Construction P. Vanecek GG1013 $295,000 Stimulus Funds 6/11 CIP SUMMARY Completed 2 Substantial Completion 0 Pending/On Hold 1 In Design 5 Out to Bid / Re -Bid 0 Bids Received 0 Pending Design Contract 0 Pending Construction Contract 0 No Status 0 Under Construction 2 Public Hearing Scheduled 0 RFQ's — Design 0 TOTAL 10 (VP11411 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN, 20I1 - 2020 CITY OF COIIEGE STATION Appendix D - 2 Parks and Recreation Department Park Land Dedication Project Schedule Fiscal Year-end September 30, 2010 PARK LAND DEDICATION PROJECTS PRIORITIZED ZONE 1 - $18,306 STATUS PROJECT MANAGER PROJECT # BUDGET FUNDING SOURCE COMPLETION DATE EXPECTED/ACTUAL FINAL COST ZONE 2 - $15,693 ZONE 3 - $198,567 Cy Miller Park Pond Pier Complete P. Vanecek PK1005 $12,252 Zone 3 2/10 4/10 $12,252 WPC Playground Replacement In Design D. Wood PK1010 $70,500 Zone 3 10/10 Central Park Rainwater Harvesting In Design D. Wood PK1012 $50,000 Zone 3 11/10 ZONE 4 - $38,683 Windwood Park Complete P. Vanecek PK0916 $84,000 Zone 4 4/10 4/10 $73,273 ZONE 5 - $847 ZONE 6 - $443,975 Southwest On Hold D. Wood PK0806 $260,000 Zone 6 Gabbard Park Pond Pier Complete P. Vanecek PK1004 $10,000 Zone 6 2/10 3/10 $11,583 ZONE 7 - $72,630 John Crompton Park, Phase III In Design P. Vanecek PK0904 $86,000 Zone 7 1/11 ZONE 8 - $64,570 Emerald Forest Park Improvements In Design P. Vanecek PK0713 563,000 Zone 8 5/11 ZONE 9 - $32,321 ZONE 10 - $298,792 Castle Rock Park Development Completed P. Vanecek PK0922 $246,027 Developers + Zone 10 10/09 2/10 $250,937 Castle Rock Park Tot Playground Completed P. Vanecek PK0922 $32,000 Zone 10 6/10 7/10 $27,234 Southern Oaks Trail and Lights Completed D. Wood PK0905 $130,000 Zone 10 8/09 11/09 $130,000 ZONE 11 - $315 ZONE 12 - $25,894 ZONE 13 - $708 ZONE 14 - $80,646 ZONE 15 - $278,179 ZONES 16 - 23 $0 ZONE 24 - $17,507 ZONE 25 - $0 ZONE 26 - $3,236 ZONES 27 - 29 $0 Orff" CITY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION PARK LAND DEDICATION SUMMARY Completed 6 Substantial Completion 0 On Hold 1 In Design 4 Out to Bid / Re -Bid 0 Bids Received 0 Pending Construction Contract 0 Pending Design Contract 0 Under Construction 0 Under Contract 0 Public Hearing TOTAL 0 11 COMMUNITY PARK ZONE FUNDS Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone D $ 2,831 $162,791 $ 3,252 $0 MASTER PLAN, 2011- 2020 Appendix E Adopted Park Land Dedication Ordinance No. 3139 Approved December 11, 2008 Exhibit "A" That Chapter 9, "Subdivisions", of the Code of Ordinances of the City of College Station, Texas, is hereby amended as follows: 1. By amending SECTION 10: "Requirements for Park Land Dedication" by deleting the entire section and substituting the following: SECTION 10: Requirements for Park Land Dedication and Development. 10-A. PURPOSE. This section is adopted to provide recreational areas in the form of neighborhood park facilities as well as community park facilities as a function of subdivision and site development in the City of College Station and its Extra -Territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ). This section is enacted in accordance with the home rule powers of the City of College Station granted under the Texas Constitution, and the statutes of the State of Texas, including, but not by way of limitation, Texas Local Government Code Chapter 212 as may be amended from time to time. It is hereby declared by the City Council that recreational areas in the form of neighborhood parks and community parks are necessary and in the public welfare, and that the only adequate procedure to provide for neighborhood parks and community parks is by integrating such requirements into the procedure for planning and developing property or subdivisions in the City and its ETJ, whether such development consists of new construction on vacant land or rebuilding and remodeling of structures on existing residential property. Neighborhood parks are those parks providing for a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities and located within convenient distances from a majority of the residences to be served thereby located within park zones established by the City. The park zones established by the College Station Parks and Recreation Department and shown on the official Parks and Recreation map for the City of College Station shall be prima facie proof that any park located therein is within such a convenient distance from any residence located therein. The primary cost of neighborhood parks should be borne by the landowners of residential property who, by reason of the proximity of their property to such parks, shall be the primary beneficiaries of such facilities. Typically, the landowner of a proposed residential development is the developer. A typical community park in College Station is designed to serve the needs of residents from several neighborhoods located within a one-half to three mile radius. Community parks provide amenities that should complement neighborhood parks. Together, neighborhood parks and community parks can meet more of the recreational needs of residents. Community parks are generally 25 to 70 acres in size. However, larger and smaller community parks may be developed to meet specific requirements of a particular area of town. Off" CFIY OF COLLEGE STATION COLLEGESTATION PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PMN, 2011- 2020 Community parks, by their nature, serve both active and passive leisure needs of residents, and use by organizations and individuals from surrounding areas larger than for neighborhood parks. The acquisition and development of the "basic" infrastructure and facilities for the usage of these community parks should be based upon the demand from the area residents it is intended to serve. Therefore, the following requirements are adopted to effect the purposes stated above. 10-B APPLICABILITY. This section applies to a landowner who develops land for residential use located within the City or within its extraterritorial jurisdiction. 10-C REQUIREMENTS. 1. General. The City Manager or his designee shall administer this Section with certain review, recommendation and approval authorities being assigned to the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and various city departments as specified herein. Generally, the developer of residential property must address the following requirements pursuant to this section: dedication of land for neighborhood park use or payment of a fee in lieu thereof, dedication of land for community parks or payment of a fee in lieu thereof, payment of a development fee for neighborhood parks or construction of the neighborhood park improvements to which such fee relates, and payment of a development fee for community parks or construction of the community park improvements to which such fee relates. Requirements herein are based on actual dwelling units for an entire development. Increases or decreases in final unit count may require an adjustment in fees paid or land dedicated. If the actual number of dwelling units exceeds the original estimate, additional park land and additional park development fees may be required in accordance with the requirements in this Section. The schedule of fees and required land dedications is attached hereto as Appendix I and incorporated and made a part of this Section for all purposes. The identification of park zones for neighborhood parks is as shown City's Recreation, Park and Open Space Master Plan referenced herein and incorporated by reference. 2. Land Dedication. a. The amount of land to be dedicated for neighborhood park land purposes and for community park purposes shall be as set forth in Appendix I. The total amount of land dedicated for the development shall be dedicated to the City in fee simple: 1) Prior to the issuance of any building permits for multi -family development, 2) Concurrently with the final plat for a single phase development, 3) For a phased development the entire park shall be either platted concurrently with the plat of the first phase of the development, or 4) The developer may provide the City with financial security against the future dedication by providing a bond, irrevocable letter of credit, or other alternative financial guarantee such as a cash deposit in the amount equal to the number of acres park land required and in a form acceptable to the City. 4ff**4111111 COLLEGE STATION PARKS AND RECREATION CITY OF CoiIEGF STATION MASTER PIAN, 2031- 2020 The amount of the financial guarantee shall be the amount of fee in lieu of land dedication as set forth in Appendix I. The financial guarantee will be released to the developer, without interest, upon the filing of the final plat for the subsequent phase that dedicates the required park land. b. For development located within the extraterritorial jurisdiction of the City, the dedication requirements of this Section may be met through the creation of private park land in the same amount required as set forth in Appendix I provided the developer enters into a written agreement that all such private park land be dedicated to the City at the time of full purpose annexation into the City and provided that any plat related to such development, is inscribed with a notation regarding same. 3. Fee in Lieu of Land. In lieu of dedicating park land for neighborhood parks and for community parks, a developer may request to meet some or all of the neighborhood park land dedication requirements, and some or all of the community park land dedication requirements through payment of a fee in lieu thereof in amounts as set forth in Appendix I. Such fees shall be due at the same time as fees are due for final platting or for issuance of a building permit, whichever occurs first. 4. City Final Approval. The City shall have the final authority in determining how much, if any, land or fee may be accepted in lieu of required land dedication. The City may, from time to time, require that a fee be submitted in lieu of land dedication in amounts as set forth in Appendix I for either, both, some or all of neighborhood park land or community park land dedication. Likewise, the City may, from time to time, require that land be dedicated in amounts as set for in Appendix I and that no fee in lieu of land will be accepted. 5. Approval Process for Park Land Dedication. a. Land Dedications equal or exceeding five acres, and Dedications of Floodplains and Greenways. For any proposed required neighborhood park land dedication equaling or exceeding five (5) acres of land or equaling or exceeding payment of a fee in lieu thereof, for any proposed required community park land dedication equaling or exceeding five (5) acres of land or equaling or exceeding the payment of a fee in lieu thereof, or for any proposed land dedication containing floodplain or greenway, the landowner must: 1) Obtain a recommendation from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, and 2) Obtain approval from the Planning & Zoning Commission pursuant to the plat approval procedures as set forth elsewhere in the City Code of Ordinances. i. The Planning and Zoning Commission shall consider the recommendation from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board but may make a decision contrary to its recommendation by majority vote. b. Dedications of less than five acres not including floodplains or greenways. For any proposed neighborhood park land dedication less than five (5) acres of land or the payment of a fee in lieu thereof, for any proposed required community park land dedication less than five (5) acres of land or the payment of a fee in lieu thereof, or for any proposed land dedication containing floodplain or greenway, the City Manager or his designee is authorized to accept and approve same if the following criteria are met: • The proposed dedication or fee provides a sufficient amount of neighborhood park land existing in the park zone of the proposed development for required neighborhood park land dedication, or the proposal provides a sufficient amount of community park land existing for the proposed development for required community park land dedication, whichever applies; • Where the proposed dedication is insufficient for a neighborhood park site or for a community park site under existing park design standards, some or all of the dedication requirements may be in the form of a fee in amounts as set forth in Appendix I; • Determination of acceptability of a proposed neighborhood park land dedication and for a proposed community park land dedication is based upon the City of College Station's Recreation, Park and Open Space Master Plan, as may be amended from time to time; and • The proposed development of the neighborhood park or community park is consistent with College Station's Recreation, Park and Open Space Master Plan, as may be amended form time to time. In making his decision, the City Manager or his designee may choose to submit such application to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for its recommendation. In such event, the City Manager shall consider such recommendation but may make a decision contrary in accordance with the criteria set forth herein. 6. Park Development Fee. In addition to the land dedication requirements for neighborhood parks and for community parks, there are also park development fees established herein sufficient to develop neighborhood parks and community parks in ways that meet the City of College Station's Manual of Park Improvements Standards. The amount of development fees assessed to a developer subject to this section for neighborhood and community parks is as shown in Appendix I. The process for the approval and collection of development fees shall be the same as for the park land dedication requirements to which the development relates, and shall be processed simultaneously with the park land dedication requirements. 7. Construction of Park Improvements in Lieu of Development Fee. A developer may elect to construct required neighborhood park improvements and/or required community park improvements in lieu of paying the associated development fee as set forth herein. In such event: a. A park site plan, developed in cooperation with the Parks and Recreation Department staff, is submitted and approved by the Director of the Parks and Recreation Department or his designee and the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board upon submission of final plat or upon application for a building permit, whichever is applicable. b. Detailed plans and specifications for park improvements hereunder shall be due and processed in accordance with the procedures and requirements pertaining to public improvements for final plats and for building permit issuance, whichever is applicable. c. All plans and specifications shall meet or exceed the City's Manual of Park Improvement Standards in effect at the time of the submission. d. If the improvements are constructed on land that has already been dedicated to and/or is owned by the City, then the Developer must post payment and performance bonds to guarantee the payment to subcontractors and suppliers and to guarantee the developer completes the work in accordance with the approved plans, specifications, ordinances, and other applicable laws. e. The construction of all improvements must be completed in accordance with the requirements relating to the construction of public improvements for final plats and issuance of building permits, whichever is applicable. This includes guaranteeing performance in lieu of completing the park improvements prior to final plat approval. Notwithstanding any other applicable ordinances, park improvements should be completed within two years from the date of approval. f. Completion and Acceptance — Park development will be considered complete and a Certificate of Completion will be issued after the following requirements are met: i. Improvements have been constructed in accordance with the Approved Plans; ii. All park land upon which the improvements have been constructed has been dedicated as required under this section; and iii. All manufacturers' warranties have been provided for any equipment installed in the park as part of these improvements. g. Upon issuance of a Certificate of Completion, the developer warrants the improvements for a period of one (I) year as set forth in the requirements in the City of College Station's Manual of Park Improvements Standards. h. The developer shall be liable for any costs required to complete park development if: i. Developer fails to complete the improvements in accordance with the approved plans; or ii. Developer fails to complete any warranty work. 8. Submitting Fee. Any fees required to be paid pursuant to this section shall be remitted: • Prior to the issuance of any building permits for multi -family development; or • Upon submission of each final plat for single family, duplex or townhouse development. 9. Use of fees. Fees may be used only for the acquisition or development of park facilities to which they relate. For fees in lieu of neighborhood park land dedication, fees may only be used for purchase and/or development of neighborhood parks located within the same zone as the development. For fees in lieu of community park land dedication, fees may only be used for the purchase and/or development of community parks. 10. Reimbursement for City Acquired Park Land. The City may from time to time acquire land for parks in or near an area of actual or potential development. If the City does acquire park land in a park zone for a neighborhood park or acquires parkland for a community park, the City may require subsequent dedications to be in fee -in lieu -of -land only. This will be to reimburse the City for the cost(s) of acquisition. 10-D PRIOR DEDICATION OR ABSENCE OF PRIOR DEDICATION. If a dedication requirement arose prior to enactment or amendment of this Section 10, subsequent development for the subject tract to which the dedication requirement applies may be subject to vesting as set forth in Chapter 245 Texas Local Government Code. Depending on the circumstances, additional dedication may be required for the increase in dwelling units from what was originally proposed. 10-E COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CONSIDERATIONS. The City's Recreation, Park and Open Space Master Plan is intended to provide the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board with a guide upon which to base its recommendations. Because of the need to consider specific characteristics in the site selection process, the park locations indicated in the Plan are general. The actual locations, sizes, and number of parks will be determined when development occurs or when sites are acquired by the City, including by donations. Park zones for neighborhood parks are established in the City's Recreation, Park and Open Space Master Plan as a component of the City's Comprehensive Plan, and indicate service areas for neighborhood parks. Zone boundaries typically follow key topographic features such as major thoroughfares, streams, city limit and ETJ boundary lines. New park zones may be created or existing zones amended pursuant to procedures for amending the City's Recreation, Park and Open Space Master Plan as land acquisitions or other circumstances dictate. 10-F SPECIAL FUND; RIGHT TO REFUND. 1. All neighborhood park land dedication fees will be deposited in a fund referenced to the park zone to which it relates. Community park land dedication fees will be deposited in a fund referenced to community parks. 2. The City shall account for all fees in lieu of land and all development fees paid under this Section with reference to the individual plat(s) involved. Any fees paid for such purposes must be expended by the City within five (5) years from the date received by the City for acquisition and/or development of a neighborhood park or a community park as required herein. Such funds shall be considered to be spent on a first -in, first -out basis. If not so expended, the landowners of the property on the expiration of such period shall be entitled to a prorated refund of such sum, computed on a square footage of area basis. The owners of such property must request such refund within one (1) year of entitlement, in writing, or such right shall be barred. 10-G PARK LAND GUIDELINES AND REQUIREMENTS. Parks should be easy to access and open to public view so as to benefit area development, enhance the visual character of the City, protect public safety and minimize conflict with adjacent land uses. The following guidelines and requirements shall be used in designing parks and adjacent development. 1. Any land dedicated to the City under this section must be suitable for park and recreation uses. The dedication shall be free and clear of any and all liens and encumbrances that interfere with its use for park purposes. The City Manager or his designee shall determine whether any encumbrances interfere with park use. Minerals may be reserved from the conveyance provided that there is a complete waiver of the surface use by all mineral owners and lessees. A current title report must be provided with the land dedication. The property owner shall pay all taxes or assessments owed on the property up to the date of acceptance of the dedication by the City. A tax certificate from the Brazos County Tax Assessor shall be submitted with the dedication or plat. 2. Consideration will be given to land that is in the floodplain or may be considered "floodable" even though not in a federally regulated floodplain as long as, due to its elevation, it is suitable for park improvements. Sites should not be severely sloping or have unusual topography which would render the land unusable for recreational activities. 3. Land in floodplains or designated greenways will be considered on a three for one basis. Three acres of floodplain or greenway will be equal to one acre of park land. 4. Where feasible, park sites should be located adjacent to greenways and/or schools in order to encourage shared facilities and joint development of new sites. 5. Neighborhood park sites should be adjacent to residential areas in a manner that serves the greatest number of users and should be located to minimize users having to cross arterial roadways to access them. 6. Where appropriate, sites with existing trees or other scenic elements are preferred. 7. Detention / retention areas may not be used to meet dedication requirements, but may be accepted in addition to the required dedication. If accepted as part of the park, the detention / retention area design must meet specific parks specifications in the City's Manual of Park Improvements Standards. 8. Where park sites are adjacent to greenways, schools, or existing or proposed subdivisions, access ways may be required to facilitate public access to provide public access to parks. 9. It is desirable that fifty percent (50%) of the perimeter of a park abut a public street. 10. Community Parks should be accessible from major arterial streets so as to be accessible by large groups of people from Targe surrounding areas. 10-H WARRANTY REQUIRED. 1. All materials and equipment provided to the City shall be new unless otherwise approved in advance by the City Manager or his designee and that all work will be of good quality, free from faults and defects, and in conformance with the designs, plans, specifications, and drawings, and recognized industry standards. This warranty, any other warranties express or implied, and any other consumer rights, shall inure to the benefit of the City only and are not made for the benefit of any party other than the City. 2. All work by the developer or landowner not conforming to these requirements, including but not limited to unapproved substitutions, may be considered defective. 3. This warranty is in addition to any rights or warranties expressed or implied by law. 4. Where more than a one (I) year warranty is specified in the applicable plans, specifications, or submittals for individual products, work, or materials, the longer warranty shall govern. 5. This warranty obligation may be covered by any performance or payment bonds tendered in compliance with this Ordinance 6. If any of the work performed by developer or landowner is found or determined to be either defective, including obvious defects, or otherwise not in accordance with this ordinance, the designs, plans, drawings or specifications within one (I) year after the date of the issuance of a certificate of Final Completion of the work or a designated portion thereof, whichever is longer, or within one (I) year after acceptance by the City of designated equipment, or within such longer period of time as may be prescribed by law or by the terms of any applicable special warranty required by this ordinance, developer shall promptly correct the defective work at no cost to the City. 7. During the applicable warranty period and after receipt of written notice from the City to begin corrective work, developer shall promptly begin the corrective work. The obligation to correct any defective work shall be enforceable under this Code of Ordinances. The guarantee to correct the defective work shall not constitute the exclusive remedy of the City, nor shall other remedies be limited to the terms of either the warranty or the guarantee. 8. If within twenty (20) calendar days after the City has notified developer of a defect, failure, or abnormality in the work, developer has not started to make the necessary corrections or adjustments, the City is hereby authorized to make the corrections or adjustments, or to order the work to be done by a third party. The cost of the work shall be paid by developer. 9. The cost of all materials, parts, labor, transportation, supervision, special instruments, and supplies required for the replacement or repair of parts and for correction of defects shall be paid by Developer, its contractors, or subcontractors or by the surety. 10. The guarantee shall be extended to cover all repairs and replacements furnished, and the term of the guarantee for each repair or replacement shall be one (I) year after the installation or completion. The one (I) year warranty shall cover all work, equipment, and materials that are part of the improvements made under this section of the ordinance. Appendix I to the Park Land Dedication Ordinance Park Land Dedication and Development Fees Effective January 1, 2009 NEIGHBORHOOD AND COMMUNITY PARKS A. Dedication Requirements for Neighborhood and Community Parks 1. Land Dedication per Dwelling Unit (DU) Neighborhood Community Single Family: One (1) Acre per 102 DUs + One (1) Acre per 105 DUs Multi -Family: One (1) Acre per 125 Dus + One (1) Acre per 129 DUs 2. Fee in Lieu of Land Dedication per Dwelling Unit (DU) Neighborhood Single Family: $314 per DU Multi -Family: $256 per DU 3. Park Development Fee per Dwelling Unit (DU) Neighborhood Single Family: $764 per DU Multi -Family: $622 per DU Community Total + $305 per DU = $619 + $248 per DU = $504 Community Total + $638 per DU = $1,402 + $520 per DU = $1,142 4. Total Neighborhood & Community Park Fees per Dwelling Unit (DU) Neighborhood Single Family: $1,078 per DU Multi -Family: $878 per DU Community Total + $943 per DU = $2,021 + $768 per DU = $1,646 Appendix F Detailed Needs Assessment Information The Baker Study An Evaluation Of College Station Residents' Attitudes Toward CSPARD: A Class Project For RPTS 336 -Research Methods Assisted By: Dr. Stacey Baker And Shu Tian EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The purpose of this study was to accurately access and analyze the expressed needs and desires of the residents of College Station, with regards to the Parks and Recreation Department. This study was conducted by students from Texas A&M University's Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences 336 class, with the assistance of Dr. Stacey Baker and graduate assistant, Shu Tian. The first phase of the project was a focus group conducted on September 22, 1997, to find out how selected members of the community felt about their parks and recreation facilities. Seven residents of College Station were selected to be members of the focus group. The group of individuals was very knowledgeable about the community and many of the activities that go on in the city. The group appeared to be relaxed and answered questions with informative and positive answers. These responses were used to assist in the development of the questionnaire used during the survey. A copy of the focus group questions is attached in Appendix A. The following information is a brief overview of the focus group results: • All of the members of the focus group felt that more information should be available throughout the community on programs and facilities provided by CSPARD. • Major opinions expressed by members of the group concerned linear trails, natural spaces, beautification and availability of information on the Master Plan for CSPARD. The second phase of the project was the development of the survey questionnaire. The contents of the survey were molded from the themes and concerns generated during the focus group. The survey was comprised of 32 fact-finding questions. A copy of the survey is attached in Appendix B. Questions on the survey included information regarding: • Household information • Suggestions for improvements • Park usage patterns • Satisfaction and impressions The third phase of the project was the collection of the data. The procedures used to collect the data for this survey included establishing a sample frame. The sample frame consisted of College Station residents living in residential units, including apartments. The sample frame did not include individuals living on campus. The use of a zoning process helped further identify our sample frame. The City of College Station was divided into four geographic regions. This process was selected to provide equal representation of all College Station residents. The four zones used for the survey are as follows: • Zone 1: East of Texas Avenue and north of Harvey Road • Zone 2: East of Texas Avenue and south of Harvey Road • Zone 3: West of Texas Avenue and south of FM 2818 • Zone 4: West of Texas Avenue and north of FM 2818 The survey was conducted using a self-administered format. Students within the class were responsible for distributing the surveys within their designated zones. The surveys were left with the individual residents and picked up the following day. A copy of the survey is attached in Appendix B. Some of the findings from the survey are indicated below: General Information • The overall response rate was 71% from an effective sample size of 427 with 304 total responses. Females completed approximately 60% of the surveys and males completed 40% of the surveys (Table 2A). • Nearly 23% of the respondents indicated their annual average household income was Tess than $14,999 (Table 2B). • Approximately 63% of the households surveyed did not have children under the age of 18 (Table 2C). Suggestions for Improvements • The respondents ranked the After School Children's programs as being the most important program for our community, with At -Risk Youth programs following closely behind (Table 3B). Usage Patterns • Only 8% of respondents indicated they did not use College Station parks (Table 4B). • About 53% of respondents indicated lack of time was the major hindrance of their usage of the parks (Table 4C). • 80% of respondents live less than one and one-half miles from a park (Table 4D). • Almost 50% of respondents indicated they do not regularly participate in structured programs (Table 4E). Satisfaction and Impressions • Almost 87% of respondents reported having positive feelings about the parks (Table 5A). • 85% of respondents said they have adequate parks in their vicinity (Table 5A). • 83% of the respondents agreed that the facilities in the CSPARD system are well maintained (Table 5A). The fourth phase of the project was the development of the conclusions and recommendations as identified by the class. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 1. Recommend improvements in the method of program information distribution. Approximately 28% of the respondents to the survey indicated they did not receive adequate information about the programs and facilities offered by CSPARD. According to the survey 42% of the people surveyed received their information through local newspapers. Respondents indicated that their preferred method of receiving information is through television advertisements, if possible. 2. According to the respondents, the preferred method of registration for programs is to register in person. There is Tess than .7% difference in the second choice of respondents. It is recommended that registration by telephone be implemented to assist in the registration process for programs offered by CSPARD. 3. Residents of College Station expressed concerns about the lack of information available regarding the CSPARD Master Plan and the construction of the new athletic park. Providing information on the Master Plan and the construction plans of the new athletic park will greatly improve the overall awareness and satisfaction of the residents. 4. Recommend that CSPARD further clarify the constraints identified under park usage. 53% of the respondents identified a lack of time as the number one hindrance in park usage. Clarifying whether the lack of time is a result of conflicting program schedules or personal time schedules may help in allowing residents better access to programs offered by CSPARD. 5. One conclusion established by this survey was the lack of responsiveness by and for senior citizens. Numerous members of the data collection teams reported senior citizens as unwilling to fill out the survey. Combined with senior citizen programs ranking last among programs of importance, may indicate a forgotten market in the community. 6. Residents of College Station indicated through their responses the value and importance of beautification in city parks. It is the conclusion of this project group that expense is no deterrent in the continued efforts of CSPARD to maintain the level of beautification currently seen throughout the parks. 7. The final conclusion that is noted by this project group is the concern for adequate trails in and around the community. Residents indicated a wish list desire for a trails system linking city parks. However, residents listed their willingness to spend funds on this trail system as their last option. Understanding the conflict between desires and willingness noted by the respondents may enable CSPARD to better facilitate the desires of the community. Appendix F-1 Detailed Needs Assessment Information 2005 Needs Assessment City of College Station Department of Parks and Recreation Citywide Needs Assessment 2005 by Jamie Rae Walker & John L. Crompton Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences Texas A&M University Acknowledgements The authors appreciate the assistance of the following: The College Station Parks and Recreation Department for coordinating the logistics of the focus groups and mailing and collecting the mail questionnaires. Pam Springfield for serving as the contact for survey recipients' questions. The College Station Utilities Department for drawing the probability sample from their list of customers and for printing and collating questionnaires and envelopes. Jenny Hageman for her assistance coordinating the questionnaire distribution and data entry. Bill Boswell for his assistance especially with the focus group interviews. Mark Doze for his assistance with the focus group interviews, and with organizing the focus gr up and open-ended responses for this report. Michael Nicholson for his assistance with the focus group interviews. SoYon Lee for her assistance with data entry of the focus group data. Justine Brydia for her assistance with the follow-up procedures for the wrap-up focus group meeting. Kathryn Nachlinger for her assistance with the focus group planning and interviews. Dr. Carson Watt for assistance with planning the NGT . i Table of Contents Acknowledgements i Introduction 1 Focus Group Procedures 2 Focus Group Findings 2 Survey Procedures 3 Survey Results Participants 4 Frequency of Use 5 Prio 'ties 7 Level of Tax Support 9 Priority Investment Areas 10 Service Quality Issues 13 Relative Importance to Community Goals 15 PARD's Perceived Contribution to Alternate Community Goals 16 Planning for the next 5-10 years 17 Introduction This Needs Assessment was developed to provide the City of College Station Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) staff, community leaders, and citizens with guidelines for investment decisions designed to address the city's park and recreation needs for the next 10 years. As part of its process to update the current Master Plan, the College Station PARD contracted with the Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences at Texas A&M University to conduct a city-wide needs assessment. Focus f; groups, a public meeting, and a community wide survey were administered to ascertain and prioritize the needs presented in this report. The focus groups were held in January through March 2005. Input from these sessions was used as the basis for formulating a questionnaire which was mailed to city residents in June. In July, reduced versions of the questionnaire was delivered to PARD and to city employees in other departments. After two follow-up mailouts to residents who had not responded and one follow-up post card delivered to employees, the data from the questionnaire were analyzed in September/October and results were presented to the Park Board in October 2005. ( i Focus Group Procedures Twelve focus groups were facilitated between January and March. Local Citizens were invited by PARD staff members to one of these twelve groups: Neighborhood Associations External Athletics Environmental Groups Aquatics Lincoln Center Internal Athletics Citizens with Disabilities Teens PARD Advisory Board Senior Citizens Special Interests The 128 citizens who participated in the focus groups utilizing a Nominal Group Technique (NGT) provided and ranked responses to the question: "Which park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent?" Representatives from each group, excluding the Teens and the Park Board groups, were invited to a wrap-up focus group to participate in a combined NGT. In addition to the focus groups, 36 citizens who attended the public meeting also participated in a NGT. Focus Group Findings The NGT unveiled five major themes: a need for trails and linkages, more non- designated open space, improved communication, additional pools, and a community center. Residents who participated in the NGT felt that the city needed more trails; needed to link trails to each other; and needed to link trails to schools, work places, residential neighborhoods, recreation centers, and restaurants. They believed that the city needed additional open space for non -planned, non- scheduled play. Residents felt that neighborhood ballfields and larger open spaces are continuously set-aside for scheduled practices and games in the evenings and on weekends. They articulated a need to increase the amount of landscaped open space which incorporated flowers, gardens, and trees. There was an expressed desire for the city to enhance communication especially by improving the web page. Concerns were voiced about overcrowding at, and accessibility to, pools. Several of the groups also gave priority to building a water park in College Station. These data were used as input for developing the city- wide survey which was used to obtain a representative view of the priorities of College Station residents. Additional information on the NGT process, participation, and detailed results from eac of the focus groups is available in Appendix A. i Survey Procedures The survey was developed from the focus group data and included questions on respondents' frequency of use and on the perceived contributions of parks and recreation to overall community goals. The survey was mailed to 1200 College Station residents. It was structured so that 800 would be delivered to single family homes and 400 would go to multiple dwelling units. The assumption was that single family homes were more likely to contain permanent College Station residents, while multiple dwelling units were more likely to reflect the community's college population. Greater emphasis was given to the permanent resident group since they are likely to have most invested in the community. The two groups of 800 and 400 residents were drawn from the city's list of utility customers. Every nth name was drawn from the list so it was a probability (representative) sample. The 1200 total number was used because based on past surveys of this nature, the research team anticipated receiving a 40% return rate and 450-500 was viewed as the minimum number of responses needed to undertake analyses of any sub -groups that may be requested. Every survey included a cover letter offering two incentives: (1) a buy one admit one free ice skating pass, and (2) a chance to win 1 of 4 family summer pool passes. Three days after mailing the surveys, reminder post cards were sent to every resident. Two weeks later, a second survey was sent to all non - respondents. Four weeks after the first mail -out, a final survey was sent to the remaining non -respondents. In July, a representative from each city department was asked to serve as a liaison for distribution of the city employee survey. Steve Beachy, the Director of Parks and Recreation, sent an e-mail to all city staff members which requested their time and assistance in completing the surveys, and described the importance of their responses. Each department liaison received a packet comprised of surveys and reminder post cards for each employee in his/her department. Liaisons were instructed to distribute the surveys first, followed by the post cards. The reduced versions of the survey instruments that were sent to all city employees and to all PARD staff are included in Appendix B. tir1711/i0 ( i Survey Results -- Participants Five hundred and forty-six (546) residents, 58 PARD employees, and 286 employees from other city departments returned usable surveys, which represented 45%,81%, and 46% percent response rates, respectively. A profile of the residents who completed the questionnaire was compared with the profile of College Station's total population which was provided by the city's planning department. The data in Figure 1 show that the youngest age cohort, 18-34, was underrepresented in the sample, while the 35-64 and 65+ age groups were overrepresented. The underrepresentation among 18-34 year olds presumably reflects the much smaller university enrollments in the summer and, hence, the fewer young people resident in the city at the time of the survey. This interpretation is supported by the imbalance in profiles shown between students and non- students in Table 1C. This probably also explains some of the underrepresentation of apartment dwellers and overrepresentation of single family home owners (Table 1B). However, some of this imbalance was deliberately structured into the survey by selecting twice as many single family hones as apartments to be surveyed in order to avoid apartment respondents' priorities from dominating the results. The ethnic, gender, and rental/owner profiles of the sample's respondents were reasonably compatible with those of the city (Tables 1D, 1 E and 1F in Appendix C). Additional data on response rates and demographics are available in Appendix C. Figure lA Age 74.76% 46.43% 11.22/: 18-34 35-64 65+ II City Demographics Survey Demographics Table 1B Dwelling Type Table 1C Student Population Survey Results-- Frequency of Use Neighborhood/Community Parks and Trails/Paths were the most used amenities among College Station Residents. Frequency of use data are presented in Table 2. Neighborhood/Community Parks and Walking Trails/Bike Trails were by far the most used amenities with 40% and 34% of College Station residents reporting that someone in their household used them once a week or more (Table 2). The dominance of Neighborhood/ Community Parks was reinforced by the relatively high levels of use reported for Playgrounds, Ponds/ Lakes and Picnic Tables/Pavilions which were ranked third (27.8%), fifth (25.3%) and sixth (19.5%), respectively, when aggregating daily, weekly, and monthly use, since these elements are located in parks. SWimmmg pools were ranked third with 27.6% of College Station households reporting that someone in their household used them at least once a month during the open season (Table 2). With the exception of the Lincoln Center, outdoor basketball courts, tennis courts and festivals/events, other recreation services, for the most part, were used by fewer than 20% of the households in College Station during the course of the year. These data suggest that the department's emphasis should be on the development of parks and greenways, with athletic and recreation facilities and programs being regarded as of secondary importance in future allocations of resources. i Survey Results-- Table 2 Frequency of Use N=534 RECREATION RELATED Swimming Pools Not at all Few times a year Once Month About Once a Week Almost Daily PARKS RELATED # % # % # % # % # 47.52 Neighborhood/Community Parks 61 11.60 159 30.23 - 93 17.68 141 26.81 72 13.69 Walking Trails/ Bike Paths 131 24.86 137 26.00 81 15.37 105 19.92 73 13.85 Playgrounds 243 46.29 136 !25.90 60 11.43 61 11.62 25 4.76 Ponds/ Lakes 209 39.81 183 34.86 95 18.10 30 5.71 8 1.52 Picnic Tables/Pavilions =. 199 38.12 221 4..34 ` 71 13.60 26 4.98 5 0.96 RECREATION RELATED Swimming Pools 261 50.10 116 22.26 42 8.06 68 13.05 34 6.53 Wolf Pen Amphitheatre 202 38.55 249 47.52 58 11.07 12 2.29 3 0.57 Kids Klub" 473 90.27 13 2.48 3 0.57 6 1.15 29 5.53 Recreation Center 347 66.86 102 19.65 34 6.55 21 4.05 15 2.89 Fitness Programs 446 85.44 44 8.43 15 2.87 7 1.34 10 , 1.92 Youth Soccer Fields 428 81.52 37 7.05 21 4.00 32 6.10 7 1.33 Outdoor Basketball Courts 320 61.30 116 22.22 55 - 10.54 25 4.79 6 1.15 Tennis Courts 360 68.57 95 18.10 42 8.00 22 4.19 5 0.95 Youth Baseball Fields 451 86.07 44 8.40 11 2.10 -'13 2.48 5 0'95, Adult Soccer Fields 460 87.62 30 5.71 18 3.43 14 2.67 3 0.57 Xtra Education 440 83.81 69 13.14 9 1.71 4 0.76 ..3 0.57 Youth Softball Fields 468 89.31 32 6.11 7 1.34 14 2.67 3 0.57 Lincoln Center 454 86.64 52 9.92 14 2.67 1 0.19 3 0.57 Teen Activities 484 92.37 20 3.82 11 2.10 6 1.15 3 0.57 Festivals/Events +` 228 43.59 247 47.23 40 7.65 6 1.15 2 0.38. Adult Baseball Fields 442 84.67 48 9.20 19 3.64 11 2.11 2 0.38 EXIT Teen Center ; 493 93.90 22 4.19 4 0.76 4 0.76 2 0.38: Adult Softball Fields 418 79.77 66 12.60 16 3.05 23 4.39 1 0.19 Youth Flag. Football Fields 485 92.56 28 5.34 ; 4 0.76 6 . 1.15 1 0.19 Volleyball Courts 410 78.24 81 15.46 23 4.39 10 1.91 0 0.00 Senior Programs 481 91.62 32 6.10 11 2.10 1 0.19 0 0.00 i Survey Results -- Priorities Quiet, Green Spaces Paths Around Fields Shade Trees Land Acquisition Enhanced Maintenance Residents ranked Trails. Trees, and Neighborhood/Community Parks as the three top priorities. Respondents were presented with the set of items listed in Table 3 and asked to indicate for each of them whether they should be a high, medium or low priority in future investment decisions. Three major investment priorities emerged. First, were items related to trails, reflecting the widespread use of Walking Trails/Bike Paths reported in Table 2. By far the highest priority was to provide lighting for walking and jogging paths. This was complemented with the request for more hike and bike trails linking parks, neighborhoods and schools, which was ranked fourth, and more walking paths around parks and athletic fields which was ranked seventh. Among city employees, the trails' items also emerged as highest priority being ranked first, fourth and eighth. These also appeared prominently in respondents' open-ended responses which are reported in Appendix D. The second investment priority was trees. Providing more shade trees at parks was ranked third and providing more trees along city streets was ranked fifth. This was complemented by the second ranked more generic landscaping priority of providing quiet, green spaces throughout the city. Together these three items make a strong case for prioritizing investment in "greening the city". City employees ranked the three "greening the city" items third, seventh and tenth. The third major theme reflected the relatively high frequency of use reported in Table 2 for Neighborhood/ Community Parks. Ranked eighth and ninth, respectively, were acquisition of more parkland and enhancement of maintenance at existing parks. There was strong sentiment expressed by 28% of the sample as a high priority that there should be more investment in improving accessibility for those with disabilities. Among the programmatic, as opposed to facility items, priority was given to providing more art and music programs. Like the residents, PARD and city staff regarded improving access for those with disabilities as a high priority (2). There was a higher PARD staff priority given to i C offering Xtra Education classes at weekends (7) and, providing personal growth classes (10). The PARD employees' dominant priority was the allocation of more funds to enhance the maintenance of existing parks which probably reflects both the predominance in numbers of the park staff among those who completed the survey and their pride in what they do (maintenance incorporates trees, flower beds, irrigation systems, cleaning, mowing, painting, building maintenance, et al.). The city staff gave relatively high priority to developing a senior center (5) and providing playgrounds at athletic fields (6). Table 3 Level of Priority N=534 i None # % Low # % Medium # % High # % Provide lighting for walking "and Jogging paths 15 2.86 72 13.74 159 30.34 278 53.05 Provide quiet, green spaces throughout the city 20 3.81 116 22.10 196 37.33 193 36.76 Provide more shade trees" at parks 17 3 24 107 20 38 210 40.00 Te -4--- 38 Link parks, neighborhoods, and schools with hike and bike trails 23 4.40 113 21.61 203 38.81 184 35.18 Provide more=trees along city streets 44 8.38 140 26.67 177 33.71 16431.24 Improveaccessibility for those with disabilities (e.g., pool lifts, sidewalks, 24 4.59 133 25.43 216 41.30 150 28.68 Provide more walking paths around parks and athletic fields 24 4.58 141 26.91 226 43.13 133 25.38 ' cquire additional park land 49 9.35 167 31.87 187 35.69 121 23.09 . Ilocate more funds to enhance the maintenance of existing parks 27 5.17 111 21.26 268 51.34 116 22.22 Provide more art and music programs 61 11.71 183 35.12 176 33.78 101 19.39 Provide a designated Senior Center 61 11.60 _ 194 36.88 183 34,79 88 16.73 Provide more directional signs identifying the way to parks 65 12.38 213 40.57 164 31.24 83 15.81 Provide playgrounds at athletic fields 38 7 29 188 36.08 221 42.42 74 14.20 Provide personal growth classes (e.g. car maintenance, career development) 73 14.01 198 38.00 176 33.78 74 14.20 Improve public bus transportation to existing park and recreation facilities 73 14.01 _ 198 38.00 176 33.78 74 14.20 Place more benches in parks and along trails 39 7.46 166 31.74 246 47.04 72 13.77 Provide more seasonal color and landscaping in parks 46 111 8.81 216 41.38 188 123 36.02 72 13.79 Offer Xtra Education Classes on eekends 21.31 220 42.23 23.61 67 12.86 Provide more access to the indoor pool at the Junior High School during school vacations 91 17.50 211 40.58 158 30.38 60 11.54 Provide more undesignated, open play space at neighborhood parks 42 8.03 231 199 44.17 191 36.52 59 11.28 Provide technology in parks (wireless access, geocoding), 189 32.31 38.05 97 18.55 58 11.09 Provide a wider variety of aquatic classes 74 14.20 270 51.82 130 24.95 47 i Survey Results -- Level of Tax Support More than half of the respondents indicated a desire to maintain the current level of funding for Parks and Recreation but 37% would like to see at least a 5% increase. When respondents were asked if they wanted to increase or decrease the amount of tax they paid for existing and new park and recreation services, the dominant response by slightly more than half of thein was to retain the same level of investment. Slightly over 10% of the sample indicated they would prefer to decrease tax support for both existing and new amenities. However, approximately 37% indicated they would be willing to increase their support for parks, although for the most part this increase was limited to a 5% increase. These data suggest there is strong citizen support for parks. In an era in which advocacy of tax cuts is a dominant feature of political dialog, almost 90% of residents indicated a preference for maintaining or increasing funding for parks and recreation. Table 4 -- Level of Tax Support Would you like to see the level of tax support for EXISTING park and recreation services changed? Would you like to see the city's tax investment in NEW park and recreation facilities change? N=534 -20% -15% -10% -5% Remain the +5% +10% +15% +20% Total 16 3.13 5 0.98 12 2.35 21 4.11 271 53.03 122 51 9.98 4 0.78 9 511 18 3.54 3 0.59 11 2.16 23 4.52 260 51.08 124 51 8 1.57 9 509 Survey Results -- Priority Investment Areas Residents were provided with a list of potential investment areas determined from the focus groups data and asked to prioritize investments for the next ten years (See Table 5). Trails were the dominant request ranking first, second and seventh. Indeed, if they were aggregated into a single category, they would overwhelm all other categories. This reflects the changing way in which people now use park -like facilities. Prior to the 1990s, parks were used primarily for picnicking and social activities. While this use is still important, the primary uses over the past decade have been walking, jogging, biking, skateboarding et al., i.e., linear activities which use the periphery of the park area only. The enhanced interest in these activities is reflected in the prioritization shown here for trails which will accommodate them. The second prioritization is for neighborhood parks, ponds/lakes, and gardens/arboretum. Again, these reflect dominant use patterns reported in Table 2. However, the prominence of ponds/lakes and gardens/ arboretum suggest a desire to invest more in water and horticultural features in our parks. For the most part, neighborhood parks are minimally landscaped, (they are not equipped with sprinkler systems) and these responses indicate a higher level of landscaping should be 10 incorporated. The primary challenge in responding to this prioritization i Survey Results -- Priority Investment Areas is that in times of drought, the city by ordinance is required to shut off its landscape sprinkler systems. Hence, the landscaping dies. The solution to this conundrum may be for the city to develop a network of pipes that delivers recycled water to landscapes. This is being actively considered by the city. Another barrier to enhanced landscaping is the availability of additional horticultural and forestry staff to undertake the work, but some of this requirement may be met by soliciting neighborhood residents to volunteer their labor. The major surprise in these data was the widespread interest in developing a Zoo and a Water Park. These may reflect a desire for something that is "different" to enhance the variety of experiences that can be offered. It is unlikely to be feasible for the city to develop a Zoo, even one that features only Texas species. Both the capital and operating expenses involved are substantial- -far higher than those associated with any of the city's other facilities. If those identifying a zoo as one of their priorities were aware of the costs involved, it seems likely that their level of enthusiasm for the project would drop. The Water Park prioritization is something the city should explore with a feasibility study to ascertain the capital and operational expenses associated with such a facility, and the potential of partnering with a private operator to provide it as was done with the ice rink. Successful efforts have been made to convert Bee Creek into a pseudo water park, but the pool's formal, traditional "tank" design limits what can be done there. Residents have responded with enthusiasm to the play features that have been included at Bee Creek, which suggests a water park would be well- received. Three points should be made about the water park option: 1 If such a facility was built, it would probably usurp much of Bee Creek's demand (and perhaps that of Thomas and Southwood also). 2 The capital and operating costs of a water park substantially exceed that of a traditional pool. However, these are likely to be partially off -set by increased revenues. Users expect to pay higher admission prices for a water park, and it will attract more users by drawing from the region rather than only from College Station. 3 Southwood Park was intended to be a water park when it was constructed in the mid-1980s. However, vigorous opposition to the concept emanated from the neighborhood, so the decision was made to construct a traditional pool. Table 5 -Top Priorities 43ili oaf g e ,±41iira L.4 - Nature Trails 157 29.40 Water Park 145 27.15 Neighborhood Parks 124 23.22 Gardens/ Arboretum 110 20.60 Art%\Iusic Facilities 106 19.8 Dog Park Senior Center 101 18.91 100 . 18.731 i Survey Results -- Priority Investment Areas Other elements that received prominent prioritization were Ali/MUS1C facilities, Dog Park, and Senior Center. The art/music facilities prioritization probably reflects discussion in the community for over a decade relating to developing an arts center. At this time, this appears to be the remit of the Arts Council rather than the PARD. However, the PARD could perhaps explore the potential of expanding its offerings in arts/music. A Dog Park is being incorporated at Steeplechase Park and being considered for inclusion at University Park. Their availability is likely to make it possible to more vigorously encourage dog hygiene in other parks. There is growing momentum to create more space that can be used by senior citizens. The PARD's seniors' programs are expanding and the council has authorized the exploration of more space to accommodate their needs. However, it is unlikely that a specialist senior Citizen center designed for their exclusive use is the solution. A more feasible option may be the creation of a community -oriented center (perhaps similar in concept to the existing conference center on George Bush Drive which is nearing the end of its useful life) that can be used by a multitude of community groups, including seniors. PARD and city employees gave similar prioritization to the Water Park and Zoo (see Tables 5B and 5C in Appendix C). Their support for the Water Park offers further evidence that the feasibility of this facility should be explored. The PARD employees' substantial support for camping areas, adult softball fields, skate park and indoor recreation center were all items not recognized as high priorities by residents. This may indicate that staff have insights derived from their professional training which elude residents who are not intimately involved in providing services. Like residents, city employees also identified ponds/lakes and trails as prominent priorities. i Survey Results -- Service Quality Issues Respondents were particularly complementary about the main- tenance quality of parks and the quality of facili- ties provided. Most residents reported being satisfied with most of the service quality issues. They were particularly complimentary about the maintenance quality of the parks and the quality of facilities and services provided. Approximately 10% of those who considered themselves to be "knowledgeable" about the issue reported not being satisfied with the PARD's offerings (see Table 6). The issue which appears to warrant additional effort by the PARD relates to communicating icating With residents. A majority of respondents who had knowledge of the issue reported they did not find it easy to offer feedback to the PARD or to obtain answers to questions. This was reinforced somewhat by one-third of the sample indicating they were not well-informed about the PARD's offerings. The substantial turnover in the city's population, especially that associated with college students, makes this a particularly difficult challenge. However, this community is technology oriented and much more could be done to communicate with residents via use of a website. The city's website is not easily accessible by the PARD because the department lacks the employee capacity to insert daily updates on the site. It seems unlikely that the communication problem will be improved until such a position is established in the department. Residents' concerns regarding communication and knowledge of programs were also discussed in the open-ended responses. These responses confirmed the need to better communicate with new residents (see Appendix D). There appeared to be widespread support for the contentions that the PARD needed to work most closely with the College Station Independent School District, police and fire on safety in the neighborhoods, and with neighborhood groups. Responding affirmatively does not necessarily mean the PARD is inadequate in its current levels of collaboration. However, open-ended responses indicated that working with =,' Police on safety and security, and working with city-wide groups on health and activi issues could further improve citizen's appraisals of PARD services and contributions to city-wide goals. t C City employees concurred with residents' views that the PARD should endeavor to improve its level of communication with residents. As city employees, it was anticipated that they would not perceive there to be difficulty in offering feedback to the PARD but 74% who had experience with the PARD reported such a difficulty. Perhaps, most surprisingly, two-thirds of city employees indicated they were not well-informed about plans for parks in their neighborhood. This was a much larger proportion than in the residents' sample. Almost one-third claimed not to be well-informed about the PARD's offerings. If the 57% of the sample who checked "I have no knowledge" on this question are included, then the magnitude of the communication challenge is accentuated (See Tables 6B and 6C in Appendix C). Table 6 Service Quality Issues 14 Strongly Disagree Disagree Agree Strongly Agree 1 have no knowledge N (534) I am well-informed about College Station's park facilities and recreation programs # % 28 6.25 # 117 % 26.12 {{ # 280 % 62.50 # 23 % 5.13 # %b 83 15.63 531 e-' epartmeft should work snore closely with schools to develop parks and offer Arograms 4 1.08 30 8.09 286 77.09 55 14.82 << 151 28.93 522 College Station parks and recreation facilities are accessible to people with disabilities 1 0.38 24 9.06 212 80.00 29 10.9 263 49.81 528 N 0 V p � 3�„�. r-- 1'�L 62 =,�. X5� t t..,'�-� -±L. ' 522 ° girk e 1 ieaY9IoiiTX-- an -i,.� In general, I am satisfied with the facilities and services provided by the Parks & Recreation Department 7 1.54 42 9.25 366 80.62 46 10.13 Th ®apartment should work more clo"sely'� with police and fire departments on safety in pLrigacja.,t,badigas 2 0.58 51 14.70 29.33 228 283 X249 65.71 62.89 68 22 68 35 29 19.60 7.78 795 1. . 1 525 507 Overall, the City of College Station has a "park -like" ambiance about it 22 4.89 132 '.3772n 7 23y8.4 981 5 0 T. eu.i.ufitgpoo ._,.e{foo,crowdee.; I am well-informed about plans for parks in my neighborhood 4 1.67 45 18.75 130 54.17 65 27.08 285 54.29 525 ft is easy for me to offer feedback to the park department and to obtain answers from them to any questions 38 14.73 153 59.30 94 36.43 11 4.26 235 47.67 493 The Department should work more closely with neighborhood groups to plan and maintain parks 10 4.50 60 27.03 149 67.12 13 5.86 297 57.23 519 Automobile traffic around parks should be diverted or slowed down 2 7 0,53 21 5.57 300 79.58 57.96 56 14.85 150 28.46 527 I can get to my favorite park facilities on foot or by bicycle 1.66 90 21.38 244 87 20.67 100 19.19 521 -SII 14 Survey Results -- Relative Importance of Alternate Community Goals In addition to providing enjoyable opportunities for individuals, park and recreation services have the potential to contribute to a wider set of community goals. Respondents were presented with a list of items which represented dimensions of eight broad community goals and were asked how important they viewed these issues. The eight broad goals are shown in the bold type in Table 7, while dimensions of them are listed underneath each goal in Appendix D. The scores for each goal shown in bold are the averages derived from the dimension items underneath the goal. The scales ranged from 1 through 7. By far the most important goal of the eight listed was preventing youth crime, with 72% rating it 6 or 7 at the extremely important end of the scale. The other item which received higher than average support was enhancing real estate values, which 60% rated at the 6 or 7 level. Support for the other goals at the 6 or 7 level was consistently around 50%, with the exception of attracting and retaining retirees and addressing the needs of people who are unemployed which were viewed as being of lesser importance and received approximately 41% and 36%, respectively. The perceived importance of preventing youth crime provides a strong rationale for the PARD's youth sports, and teen after-school programs such as those at Kids Klub, the EXIT Teen Center and the Lincoln Center. The support for enhancing real estate programs, provides a rationale for the interest in parks, trails and "greening the city" which emerged in the earlier questions because these features are known to have a substantial positive effect on residents' property values. Like residents, the PARD staff rated preventing youth crime as the most important of the eight goals listed. However, it was essentially ranked equal with attracting tourists. In the past decade, the PARD has emphasized its Ta b I e 7-- Performance central role in tourism and the staff's high ranking probably 6.0&7.0 reflects this emphasis. Enhancing real estate values was also • �t t I ranked highly. Preventing Youth Crime 379 72.16 City employees like the other two groups ranked preventing " - youth crime first, followed by attracting tourists and 314 59.67 enhancing real estate values. Like PARD staff, they gave a Enhancing Real Estate Values Attractingan Re' rt�ri f -" r �. , 8 I much higher ranking to attracting tourists then did residents. Improving Community Health 278 52.82 These results suggest that staff as a whole have an Attracting and Retaining':x+ gee ' ' , appreciation of the economic development Attracting Tourists 257 48.86 contribution of tourism to the city that Addressing the Needs of People who 192 36.48 is not yet shared by residents. are. Underemployed Survey Results -- PARD's Perceived Contribution to Alternate Community Goals Table 8-- Contribution tournaments When respondents were presented with the same set of eight goals and dimensions, and asked their perceptions of the PARD's current contributions to each of them, the scores were disappointingly low. Although 72% had indicated preventing youth crime was an important community goal, only 21% considered the PARD made a large or very large contribution (6 or 7 on the 7 point scale) to that goal (see Table 8A, Appendix C). The highest ranking of the PARD's contributions to these goals was enhancing real estate values where 30.5% rated them 6 or 7. In the past decade the PARD has frequently communicated its central role in attracting tourists through its hosting of sports and festivals/special events, but this role was recognized as being large or very large by only 27%. The PARD is viewed by relatively few residents as having an impact on community health. Given the recent concerns about obesity and lifestyle health problems; their costs to society; the leadership role that PARDs in other communities have exerted in the area of community health; and the potential of the PARD's programs to contribute to alleviating the problem, it may be desirable for the PARD to explore opportunities for expanding its community health role. To strengthen widespread community support, the PARD should make an effort to reposition their youth recreation services so they align directly with young crime prevention and align their "greening of the city" programs with enhanced real estate values and consider expanding their community health role. These are the most important issue to residents and aligning services more closely with them will reinforce and solidify the community's support for parks and recreation. The responses of PARD staff were higher than those of residents reflecting their professional awareness that what the PARD offers contribute more than only an opportunity to participate in "fun and games." Further, the three highest ranked were the same three that the staff perceived to be most important in Table 7A, i.e., enhancing real estate, attracting tourists and preventing youth crime. The city employees' perceptions of the PARD's contribution to these community goals typically were higher than those of residents and lower than those of PARD staff. Their highest ranking was for the PARD's contribution to enhancing real estate values, followed closely by attracting tourists, and then preventing youth crime. 16 6.087.0 Preventing Youth Crime 108 20.99 Environmental Stewardship 66 12.89 Enhancing Real Estate Values 156 30.49 Attracting and Retaining Businesses 108 21.05 Improving Community Health 82 16.05 Attracting and Retaining Retirees 59 139 11.47 Attracting Tourists 26.98 tournaments When respondents were presented with the same set of eight goals and dimensions, and asked their perceptions of the PARD's current contributions to each of them, the scores were disappointingly low. Although 72% had indicated preventing youth crime was an important community goal, only 21% considered the PARD made a large or very large contribution (6 or 7 on the 7 point scale) to that goal (see Table 8A, Appendix C). The highest ranking of the PARD's contributions to these goals was enhancing real estate values where 30.5% rated them 6 or 7. In the past decade the PARD has frequently communicated its central role in attracting tourists through its hosting of sports and festivals/special events, but this role was recognized as being large or very large by only 27%. The PARD is viewed by relatively few residents as having an impact on community health. Given the recent concerns about obesity and lifestyle health problems; their costs to society; the leadership role that PARDs in other communities have exerted in the area of community health; and the potential of the PARD's programs to contribute to alleviating the problem, it may be desirable for the PARD to explore opportunities for expanding its community health role. To strengthen widespread community support, the PARD should make an effort to reposition their youth recreation services so they align directly with young crime prevention and align their "greening of the city" programs with enhanced real estate values and consider expanding their community health role. These are the most important issue to residents and aligning services more closely with them will reinforce and solidify the community's support for parks and recreation. The responses of PARD staff were higher than those of residents reflecting their professional awareness that what the PARD offers contribute more than only an opportunity to participate in "fun and games." Further, the three highest ranked were the same three that the staff perceived to be most important in Table 7A, i.e., enhancing real estate, attracting tourists and preventing youth crime. The city employees' perceptions of the PARD's contribution to these community goals typically were higher than those of residents and lower than those of PARD staff. Their highest ranking was for the PARD's contribution to enhancing real estate values, followed closely by attracting tourists, and then preventing youth crime. 16 Overview AI Planning for the next 5-10 years The needs assessment results suggest that for the next ten years the Recreation, Parks and Open Space Master Plan should guide and develop the city's landscape so it becomes more park -like. The findings suggest the PARD should: • Concentrate on "greening the city" by acquiring more park- land and increasing tree plantings, vegetation, and color throughout the city. • Improve the trail network by adding additional trail infrastructure and connecting existing trails to each other, schools, residential neighborhoods, and businesses. • Maintain high levels of maintenance at community and neighborhood Parks. • Continue to offer high quality youth programs that residents feel support the community -wide goal of alleviating juvenile delinquency. •Review the feasibility of building a Water Park in College Station. • Improve existing, and create new, communication mechanisms with residents. • Work with other city agencies, neighborhood associations, and citywide groups to address safety and health issues. • Improve senior programs by creating a multi -use center that has the capacity to better meet seniors' needs. • 17 City of College Station Department of Parks and Recreation Citywide Needs Assessment 2005 Appendices Appendix A Focus Group Data Neighborhood Associations External Athletics Environmental Groups Aquatics Lincoln Center Internal Athletics Citizens with Disabilities Teens PARD Advisory Board Senior Citizens Special Interests Combined Group Public Meeting Data THE NGT PROCESS The Resident's Role It was explained to participants that their role was to assist in a discovery process to help the PARD better understand: "What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent. " Participants answered the question for themselves, their family, and the group they represented. The Focus Group Process To gather this information: Residents were given time to think over the question and brainstorm ideas. Each idea was listed on a single sheet of paper, numbered, and displayed for all participants to read. Next, participants collectively combined the responses which they felt conveyed the same ideas. After the combining phase, participants were provided with five post -it notes and were asked to choose their top five priorities. They were asked to distribute 10 points across these five priorities in any denomination (i.e., they could put ten points on one and zero on the other four or put 2 points on each). What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Neighborhood Associations January 20,2005 3 Participants Number Responses Votes 101 More off-street bike trails. City Wide network. Connect Bee Creek and Central 8 Park. 102 More safe bike trails - be able to traverse town on bike. 0 103 Maintenance on other parks other than Vet, Cent, S.W.V. 5 104 Keep developing Central Park. Better lighting at night. 0 105 Good Plan for small park near Chimney Hill. 2 106 A park that has a lot of activities to do with my family. Frisbee, Roller-skate, 3 Basketball, etc. 107 More pedestrian friendly sidewalks. 0 108 How about a nature trail (long) walk/bike? 2 109 Expansion on all parks in addition to playing fields. 3 110 Rework drainage in Lick Creek. 0 111 Skate board / Rollerblade park. 2 112 Another Public Pool. 0 113 Small Lake? Canoeing? 2 114 I like the Greenbelt trails in some Houston Neighborhoods - more green 3 around our neighborhoods. "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? External Athletics January 24,2005 6 Participants Number Responses Votes 101 Rising need for HS Lacrosse fields (Most often shared with soccer & football). c103 102 Cricket Field. c103 103 Access to multi -use fields for Cricket, Lacrosse, and Rugby. Field Use - Open Space. 19 104 No summer youth softball program or clinics. 0 105 Fees charged for field & lights reservations are too high and not equally applied. 22 106 Being assessed a fee to use city parks and fields. 1 107 Lack of softball fields that are available. 7 108 Girl softball fields are locked so often, just not being used. c109 109 Lack of Free & Unlocked softball fields. 8 110 Need for more batting cages & backstops at softball complex. 1 111 Boys little league fields are not locked. 0 112 Fees to use lights only for softball equalized. c105 113 Softball, "select" or "tournament', teams are not encouraged or supported. 0 114 More local softball tournaments. 0 115 Need more backstops. c110 116 Year round use of facilities. 2 117 The City of College Station is a melting pot of different cultures. Because of A&M c103 University we have people from all over the world living in our town. I represent "Brazos Valley Cricket Club". College Station & Texas A&M both have four cricket teams but no cricket ground facilities. 1 along with thousands of other Asian & European cricket fans would like to have a cricket field for our town. "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. i What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Environmental Interests February 8, 2005 4 Participants Number Responses Votes 101 Programs to adopt specific parks to care for trees, clean, etc. c126 102 Park land dedication should connect to greenways and school campuses where ever 5 possibility. 103 Corridors connecting all parks. c108 104 Parks as needed as nodes of natural areas along proposed connectivity hike and bike c108 trails. These are open space/green parks, not athletic parks (such as connects along city boundaries or long proposed bike thoroughfares). 105 Parkland connected to school campuses. c102 106 Recreation opportunities other than softball and soccer. Trails for running, hiking, c108 bicycling. 107 rnorc Create nature centers interpretive nature trails at appropriate parks 7 108 Every park and school should be connected w/every-ether-park by bike paths, trails, or 8 aleRg greenways 109 Lick creek (1) park interpretation center (2) signage describing flora and fauna. c107 110 Education programs on public tree care. c126 111 A joint effort with TAMU and Texas Cooperative Wildlife Collection for a nature trail. c108 Joining Veteran's Memorial Park is important for use of citizens and visitors and possible center. 112a Environmental camp in summer 112b Tree planting programs for parks should allow long term implement by HOAs or other 0 organizations 113 More adult arts and nature based programs. c128 114 Gardens of any type (1)community veg. garden (2)Native plant gardens (3)Water 3 Features 115 Public celebrations - art/nature festivals. 1 116 Children's museum- overview of nature in parks. c107 117 Classes and requirements protection of trees in parks and open spaces. c126 118 Dog park. 1 119 Every park should have wireless connections. 1 120 More public music events in neighborhood parks. 0 121 Can we have a Junior Park Ranger program? c127 122 AH drainage ways and storm detention basing should be "public access" parks or open 1 space. 123 Involve youth in planning park development plans and programs. 0 124 College Station park mascot. 0 125 City tree farm/nursery for park planting. 0 126 Encourage citizen/HOA ownership of parks through education, adoption, hands on 4 activities. 127 Create youth education programs such as summer camps, junior park ranger, 5 children's and BVM museum. 128 Offer more diverse adult education programs on local environmental systems (creeks, 4 trees). 129 More diverse and advanced art, music, dance adult education. 130 City Forester to come to neighborhood parks with local neighbors present to learn 0 about care of trees and plants there (or possible ones to plant in park). "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Aquatics February 10, 2005 24 Participants Number Responses Votes 101 Classrooms. 0 102 It would be good if the Middle School natatorium could have water temp to be consistently 84 3 degrees F. 103 High School and USS swimmers and water polo players have become over heated - no air 0 flow - hot H2O. 104 CSMS- water temperature is TOO hot. 4 105 Improve maintenance at pools (i.e. reliable heater for pool, non -slip floors in dressing rooms, 17 water faucets which are manually controlled, more room!). Certified plumbers and yearly scheduling. 106 Pool temperature conflicts compare 20 athletes vs. 220 athletes. 0 107 H2O temp too hot for high school team. 0 108 Grounding serresting or whatever is necessary to use the natatorium. during thunderstorms. 0 109 Safety mats for the women's & men's rooms at natatorium and Hallaran pool 0 110 Separate areas for lap and water aerobic swimmers and or different schedules. 0 111 I would like to see exercise machines in conjunction with aerobics (H2O) to aid in health 0 issues. 112 What do other pools do for different pool temperature needs? 0 113 Year round indoor/outdoor aquatic facility w/ multiple uses (i.e. lap lanes - zero depth). 18 114 Year round pool. c 115 Party rooms c203 116 More swimming pools. 4 117 Indoor outdoor water park. c203 118 Deep H2O needs for polo and diving (HS and Club). 0 119 Incorporate "Lazy River" aquatic facility. c203 120 More swimming at the Middle School indoor pool so we don't have to go to A&M Recreation 0 Center. 121 All season outdoor pool (like Bryan Aquatics) (year Tong open). c113 122 Indoor lap facility open all day, year around. c113 123 Aquatic facility geared towards families with small children. c203 124 Larger or another indoor pool - public lap use & swim team. c113 125 Year-round swimming facility for adults open at 6am. 3 126 Year round family fun swimming opportunities open in the summer and enclosed and heated c203 in the winter pool for open swims, pool parties,... 127 Put a "dome" over an outdoor pool to facilitate "outdoor" swimming year-round. 0 128 More lap swimming opportunities (lanes, locations, hours, am and pm). 1 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Aquatics Continued February 10, 2005 24 Participants Number Responses Votes 130 Year-round deep water pool for hydro fit/water aerobics. 0 131 More water aerobic classes (i.e. prenatal classes). c133 132 More water slides. c203 133 Variety of water aerobic classes at different times of the day, morning and afternoon, to include prenatal classes. 14 134 Would like to see more water aerobic classes. c133 135 Add an early afternoon water aerobic class. c133 136 Change of current aquatic facilities into non swim/polo facilities (not good). 0 137 Consider closing outdated pools and rebuild H2O park with future expansion. 0 138 More pool facilities in Southern C.S. (include lap swimming pool). Southwood pool is getting too crowded. 0 139 Water park at lazy river, etc. c203 140 Pool open in AM for lap swimmers (at least 3 mornings a week). c128 141 Extend hours for adult lap swimmers c128 142 A water park like Shlitterbahn c203 143 Keep the children's swim programs. They are great! 0 144 Keep the special family swim nights or days (they're fun). 0 145 More water exercise times beside 9am and 7pm. c133 146 More shower space needed at all pools. 0 147 With large shower, etc. 0 148 Another Natatorium with grounded pool. c203 149 Enlarge dressing rooms at Southwood pool & add ventilation. c154 150 Master's swim program. 0 151 Separate water exercise classes and swim team from same pool. This would solve heating pool problem. 6 152 Compare Bryan Aquatic center w/College Station w/regard to H.S. practice space. 0 153 Slippery deck for athletes & officials. c154 154 Improved safety features at existing pool facilities (decks and showers, grounded, ventilation, lights (overhead and pool), lifeguard chair in way, slippery deck). 17 155 Pool lighting at Junior High. 0 156 Pool lightening/ grounding electrical problems. 0 157 Deep H2O competition is faster in swimming- we have no fast competition pool. 0 158 Long course venue needed. 1 159 CSMS- improve ventilation in pool area. 1 160 Showers don't always work or are cold. 0 161 CSMS- Deck at pool needs better surface (too slick). c203 162 Not enough indoor pool space for users during cold months. c203 163 CSMS- seating area not adequate. 0 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Aquatics Continued February 10, 2005 24 Participants Number Responses Votes 164 Longer pool hours/duration during year for Thomas Park. 0 165 Swimming facility for High School and Middle Scholl - current facility poorly designed. 0 166 When new pool is built, include adequate seating for spectators. 0 167 Pool with moveable bulkhead. 0 168 Shower/locker room issues - cold showers, no AC, inadequate toilet facilities for swim meets, 7 swim practice, and public recreation use. 169 Little deck space for spectators, officials, athletes. 0 170 Pool facilities with much needed shading @ all pools. 1 171 Another golf frisbee course and scenic walking area (like Research Park) with pond/dog c203 walking, etc. Research park is crowded with students. 172 Development of running multiuse trails. 0 173 Aquatic park with scenic sunken gardens. c203 174 City Bike Trails. c180 175 Hiking area. 0 176 More bike trails. c180 177 More nature walks -hikes. 3 178 Disc golf course. c203 179 Better biking paths. c180 180 Improved and continuous bike trails (Austin, TX). 13 181 How about a city zoo in the parks (we have Vet School to assist). 0 182 Parks with a teeter-totter. 0 183 Irrigation/watering on multi -use fields. 0 184 Continue improvements to Parkway Park. 0 185 Use certified plumbers to do pool yearly maintenance. c 186 Development of neighborhood parks (set asides). 0 187 Planned maintenance at appropriate time. c 188 Pool for High School program after school begins. 0 189 Pool H2O clarity @ high school swim meets. 0 190 Velodrome 0 191 Summer competitive swim program that runs All summer (April -Aug) not just for those going 0 to state. 192 Better cooperation between summer league and club swim team(s). 0 193 More training opportunities to develop officials for swim meets. 0 194 Skate board park. 0 195 More activities for children and teens (more outdoor theater or concerts). 0 196 Soccer for many age groups at the same area. 0 197 Family soccer. 0 198 Scheduling tension between pool management and swim programs. 0 199 User friendly atmosphere @ parks and rec. with regard to scheduling. 0 200 H2O polo club added. 0 201 Exercise program friendly to Seniors. 1 202 Keep pool open during Christmas and Spring Break. 9 203 New Indoor/Outdoor water park with multiple uses (frisbee golf, water gardens, picnic 17 grounds, lazy river and slides) all day activities and party rooms. 204 After hours phone number where can reach a person (like calling service). 0 205 Compare chemical, employee, heating budgets of CS and other cities. 0 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Lincoln Center February 23,2005 14 Participants Number Responses Votes 101 To establish parent groups for the recreation centers examples: parenting groups 0 (communication parent/child): (1) families (2) volunteers; special events: (1) snacks; (2) banquets; (3) monthly meetings. 102 Parent education services Zink between Lincoln Center and school (1) GED prep; (2) 1 Parenting classes; (3) Communication; with school district; (4) Academic scores. 103 Safer parks - keep drugs out- (1) cameras; (2) security full time; (3) posted; curfew 19 awareness. 104 More, better traffic control around Holleman St. (traffic lights, speed bumps on Eleanor). c105 105 Speed bumps on public streets. Speed bumps in residential areas. 18 106 Fitness center for locals who can't afford gym prices. 2 107 Need fitness room with adequate exercise equipment (1) treadmills (2) bikes. 8 108 I would like to see a better walking track in the area of the LRC and more activities for 7 Seniors (1) exercise program/ swim pool (2) better walking paths. 109 Diversity training within the agencies (1) training class (2) education in diversity all year 0 especially Black history. Mature, adult supervisors or instructors tearing down stereotypes. 110 Better/increased community -school relations (this should be the place for it). 111 Real swimming pool for Lincoln Center and W.A. Tarrow Park. 14 112 Dedicated teen space min. 8,000 sq ft. 18 113 Dedicated teen staff. 5 114 More activities for teenagers at Lincoln Rec. Center. 1 115 Weekend education programs to increase and support school requirements (TAKs, SAT, 5 PSAT). 116 Summer basketball programs. 1 117 Free SAT testing help at LRC and AMCHS. 0 118 Character building (1) Bullying (2) Anger Mgt. [students] (3) Social skills, etc. 0 119 Horse shoe pits. 5 120 Program space for performing arts. 3 121 Transportation to/from facilities. Buses for Center. 0 122 More, better transportation from places like LRC that's a reasonable price...50c or so. 0 123 Better gym facility - goals - equipment -utilities at LRC. 1 124 Permanent full time security for this park. Keep Drugs Out!!! 0 124b Better Equipment/utilities. 0 125 More career fairs (1) truck drivers (2) business ownership. 0 126 More guest speakers at LRC to talk about everyday life at LRC for teens. People who we 4 can interact with. 127 Grants- better connections with school; technology- adequate network/ Internet service; 5 instruction for senior citizens; access to sources available through school district subscriptions. "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Lincoln Center Continued February 23,2005 14 Participants Number Responses Votes 128 Adult book groups and/or book share studies. 129 Tutorials via technology or online resources: cooking, sewing, tire, oil, tutor.com, and 7 available databases for grant money. 130 Teach parents how to use computers. 0 131 Tire/oil changing classes, cooking classes all year round at LRC for everyone. 35 132 Acoustics for musical theater productions. 0 133 Outdoor staging for performances (1) plays (2) musical. 0 134 State-of-the-art audio/visual equipment. 0 135 Better healthier activities for kids at rec. 0 136 More shade over outside play area. 0 137 Better restroom facilities at AMCHS and LRC. 0 138 Better sound system in game room at LRC: speakers, TV., teen room, gym, community 0 room, weight room...etc. 139 Other programs for medical payment help. 0 140 Better sound system in teen room at Lincoln center rec. 0 141 More grouping opportunities (1) single parents (2) readers clubs [books] (3) abuse groups 2 etc. 142 Employment for younger students (teens). 7 143 Advanced notice for activities and programs being held at the LRC. 0 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Internal Athletic Programs February 15, 2005 13 Participants Number Responses Votes 101 Baseball Field of dimensions sufficient for adults. Lights preferable. 8 102 Better Maintenance, upkeep of Softball Fields including Tight replacement on a regular basis. 4 103 Additional fields which include well lit warm-up area. Girl's Softball. 5 104 Pony Sized baseball fields. 12 105 Softball fields with fences more than 300' in distance. Concessions stand at Veteran's Park. 16 106 More Soccer practice fields. c125 107 Volleyball facility for city teams. 2 108 1 roller hockey rink, 1 covered basketball court. 1 109 Umpire facilities to dress & cool down at Veteran's Park. 4 110 Continue Speed up with Veteran's Park Phase II & III Plans. 21 111 Covered area for practice during rain. 2 112 Walking/Jogging track/path multi -mile in length. 1 113 Secure online payment & registration. c115 114 Marketing / Advertising. c115 115 Athletics Portal. 1 stop shop (website). Community Sports Bulletin Board w online secure 9 registration. 116 Increase safety & security particularly Adult Softball. 1 117 More parking as Central Park - cars in street. 3 118 Storage area at soccer fields (equipment). 1 119 Better communication of field status, 4:30 too late, 4:00 would be better. 0 120 Softball practice facilities. c125 121 Continue with lighting Central Park & Veteran's Park - plans in place to provide practice & 18 game fields. 122 Improve surface at neighborhood parks - used for little league & soccer. c125 123 Permanent, changeable signage for groups using city facilities. 7 124 Baseball batting cages (such as at Southwood Valley). 0 125 More multi -sport lighted practice fields. 13 126 Keep Pete Lamont!! Pay him well!!! 0 127 Concessions and pavilions at VPAC & Southwood. 3 128 Soccer practice fields need goals. c125 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Citzens with Disabilites February 3, 2005 3 Participants Number Responses Votes 101 Bocce Courts. 4 102 Handicap lifts at all pools. 11 103 Indoor heated pool with reasonable hours available to public. 2 104 Parking Tots at parks. c106 105 Reduced speed zones around parks. 0 106 More park parking Tots to allow limited on street parking and limit set time - 3 hours. 0 107 Wheel chair accessibility (restrooms/stands/ facilities). 7 108 Triathlon facilities close (swim/run/cycling). 0 109 Unisex/handicapped bathrooms change & showers (pool). 7 110 Side walks to most soccer fields. 1 111 Connecting bicycle/walking paths. 2 112 More swings including wheelchair. 2 113 Mountain bike trails. 0 114 Pavilions w/ garage doors. 2 115 More Oak trees (shade). 0 116 Reduce/remove unused/useless parks - Eastgate. 0 117 More pools (kids club fills Thomas Park every day in the summer). 0 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. I What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Teens Group 1 February 17, 2005 18 Participants Number Responses Votes 1 0 gravity wind tunnel 0 2 Better basketball and sport tools for basket ball games Better goals, uniforms, shoes 4 3 Indoor basketball court at exit. More 3 -balls, glass back boards, good refs, coaches 32 4 Indoor B -Ball Court at the teen center - AKA Exit c7 5 Zero Gravity tunnel c12 6 Better team sports to let young kids and older kid get interested in, instead of drugs and etc. 2 7 Better gym at Lincoln center 0 8 Chair link nets for basketball 0 9 Indoor softball field and batting cages 5 10 Indoor football exit 0 11 Indoor swimming pool with water! So you can swim year round and swim in the pool. 0 12 Indoor Track Exit 0 13 Indoor softball field 0 14 Indoor airsoft course 0 15 Hockey team Arctic skate. 0 16 Indoor football area at LRC 2 17 Airsoft Gun Course (indoor) 0 18 Indoor Swimming pool and hot tub at LRC 0 19 Indoor paint -ball court and airsoft 0 20 Indoor Airsoft 0 21 Paint ball and airsoft teen center 0 22 Indoor pool, at the Lincoln center 0 23 Indoor and out door pools 0 24 Airsoft course 0 25 Teen Center indoor weights room 100-200 exit 0 26 Air -soft Teen center 0 27 Zoo a big zoo 18 28 Aquarium with fish 14 29 Tree house at teen center 23 30 Pool 0 31 Red Tree house in tree with ladder and bathroom & rug & window 0 32 Swimming and kickball at the exit c33 33 Indoor water park 17 34 Better TV at LRC Exit 0 35 Better sound system in teen room and better games/ more other games we can play with at LRC 0 36 BMX Track 0 37 Strictly high school hang out. Teen ctr. LRC 0 38 Flat -screen computer with Internet yahoo.aol.hotmail 0 39 New skate park (skateboard in C.S.) 4 40 Go -Carts at the exit 2 41 More events for teens at L.R.0 Comm. Sport teams 9 42 Better Snacks 2 43 A big part room at LRC for social events 0 44 Snacks LRC available for teens/kids w/out enough money! (w/membership) 0 45 Better and other snack foods machines @ LRC c45 46 More events dealing with Christ and other religions mostly Christ... 3 47 Jungle gym for 7th - 10th graders 0 48 Make the exit bigger 1 49 More money for the exit teen center 0 50 Scuba -Diving places 0 51 Arcade 0 52 Free Huge Rock Climbing wall 2 53 Scuba Diving Pool (with and without fish) 0 54 Go-carts at the exit 0 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Teens Group Two February 17, 2005 19 Participants Number Responses Votes 101 Vocal studio 14 102 Add a good zoo 5 103 Need new shot rings 0 104 Need new track 6 105 Better or new track 0 106 Six Flags 9 107 Water park 3 108 Amusement or water park 10 109 Free six flags for people 2 110 Paint Ball courses 11 111 Arena F -ball team, Arena 7 112 More football fields 10 113 Arena F -ball team, Arena 6 114 Water park at lazy river, etc. c121 115 Improve Aggie Football team 1 116 Girls football 4 117 Juice bar 4 118 Domed B -ball court 6 119 Basket ball courts 15 120 Teen Dance Club 11 121 More places for teens to go! c158 122 More concerts 10 123 Aquatic park with scenic sunken gardens 0 124 More light shows/more concerts free admission 0 125 More things to play on at parks 4 126 Free Food (Mc Donaldsl 0 127 Food stores 0 128 Skate park at least 5 miles big 17 129 A decent skate park. Flat -land 0 130 Decent skate park 5 miles big. 0 131 Another skatetopia! It's a must! 0 132 In -door swimming pools 0 133 More movie theaters 2 134 Cheaper movies / Drive in movies 15 135 More pools 0 136 Skate park 0 137 Improvement of CSMS 0 138 CSMS 2 -stories 2 139 Fat Burger (Huge) 0 140 Skate board park 0 141 More pools 0 142 A go-cart course 2 143 The exit needs more games 3 144 Dirt bike track free admission 8 145 An Ice-skating rink; Free admission 0 146 Free teen night for ice-skating rink 1 147 Dirt bike track 0 148 Go-cart track 0 149 Have more neighborhood protection for bad people 0 150 Beach 0 151 New and better skating ring 0 152 One big arcade 2 153 Bonfire 1 154 More park benches 0 155 More basketball goals at parks! 0 156 Bigger park more space 0 157 Mary Oaks park is lacking: Restrooms people walk down there then they need to go to the 0 bathroom. Monkey Bars - slide 158 Mary Oaks park needs more water fountains. 0 159 More parks 0 160 Better parks 0 "C- denotes combined item_ Redtext indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Park Board and Staff Members March 8, 2005 Number Responses Votes 101 Indoor walking/jogging track. c107 102 Hike and bike trails additions (to what we have). 2 103 Indoor recreation (playground etc.) for small children. c125 104 Indoor pool heated senior water aerobics. c106 105 Indoor play area. c103 106 Dedicated lap pool/ fitness pool (indoor). 2 107 A full service community multi -generational recreation center indoor pool, jogging 38 track, climbing wall. 108 Senior/ multi-purpose center. c107 109 Group meeting facilities (indoor). c107 110 Community education space. c107 111 Lap pools. c107 112 Large meeting facility for seniors. c107 113 Indoor tennis facility. c107 114 Education space classrooms, meetings. c107 115 Pools outdoors for lessons and teens indoors for fitness and teams. c107 116 Gyms for basketballNolleyball. c107 117a Storage for equipment for facilities. c107 117b X-tra Ed facility w/I community center. c107 118 Full service multi -generation recreation center. c107 118b Offices for admin for the facility. c107 119 Indoor/outdoor water recreation facility. 0 119b Senior Center. c107 120 Gyms for basketballNolleyball. c107 120b Venue or facility for concert or performance arts and cultural arts. 0 121 Additional recreating centers offices, class rooms, basketball/ volley, game rooms, c107 kitchen. weight room. 122 Large indoor rec. center with fitness rooms, weight room, etc. 0 123 Multi-purpose recreation center w/rooms for classes (X-tra Ed.). c107 124 Senior Center. c107 125 Managed indoor play area (staffed) to coincide with classes etc. for ages 2-10. 0 125b Senior center c107 125c Recreation center. c107 126 Senior citizen center. c107 126b Senior Center. c107 127 Multi -use recreation center. c107 128 More swimming pools in outlying areas. 0 129 Multi-purpose recreation center. c107 130 Indoor tennis facility (one in Austin Colony park). c107 130b Extreme sports park "yes skate board park". 3 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Park Board and Staff Members Continued i March 8, 2005 Number Responses Votes 131 Skate board park. c130b 132 Skate board park. c130b 133 A community park for R/C models, go carts, skateboards, model airplane, model 6 boating, spectator accommodations. 134 Longer (1 mi +) cushioned jogging trail. 3 135 Dirt bike trails with motor jumps. 0 136 Off-road bike trails for seniors (not mountain biking trails). 2 137 Adult regulation size baseball field. 0 138 Model airplane flying area/park with spectator accommodations. c133 139 Model boating area/pond/park with spectator accommodations. c133 140 Access to the Brazos River for fishing, boating, canoeing. 2 141 Additional open spaces. c143 142 Skate park. c130b 143 Additional swimming pools. 0 143b Acquire and develop the regional nature park with campgrounds. 21 144 Large open general use/ multi use area. 2 145 Fenced area for pet/people exercise. 4 146 Outdoor gathering areas not playgrounds i.e. to play games, talk, snack, etc. (tables c180 with chess boards). 147 Horseback riding trails. 0 148 A small lake for non -powered water craft. 0 149 Fishing pond. 0 150 Increased park amenities such as landscape, ponds, trails, benches, shelters, color. 4 151 Additional picnic areas/facilities in or near parks, pod picnic areas. 0 152 Covered picnic areas (1-4 tables) for parties etc. (but not as big as pavilions). c151 153 Picnic units in parks with heavy usage (additional). c151 154 Skate and skate board park. c130b 155 Multi -entertainment facility. c120 155b Large non-specific sports field. c144 156 Adult size baseball fields. c137 157 Dog Park areas. c145 158 Dog Park areas. c145 159 Spray park. 3 160 Colorful landscaping at parks (schrubs/flowers). c150 161a A community water park. 4 161b A community botanical garden similar to horticulture w/nature trails. 5 162 Nature trails. c161 163 Community vegetable garden. 0 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. t r i What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Park Board and Staff Members Continued March 8, 2005 Number Responses Votes 164a Multi -sport youth camps. 164b Additional maintenance resources. Money to keep up with costs for existing and new 32 facilities. 165a Better method to increase maintenance response w/increases in responsibilities and c164 money. 165b More classes for citizens. 1 166a Maintenance money included with each new park added. c164 166b Education classes Saturday mornings vs. weeknights 1 167 Day camps. 167b Repair funds for existing facilities. c164 168 Maintenance shops. 0 168b Cultural art center c120 169a Trap and skeet range. 0 169b More visible marquees at strategic city parks. 0 170a Archery arena/area. 0 170b Additional staff for ground maintenance crews. c164 171 Keep trees along roadways to screen litter, etc. from businesses. 1 171b Additional maintenance/support facilities. c168a 172a Proactive urban forest management. 5 172b Forestry tree removal. c172a 173 Improved turf mowing equipment (i.e. reel mowers). 0 174 Better balance between maintenance of existing and additions of large scale features 0 (i.e. water features around $1.1 million). 175 Completion of additional softball fields. 0 176 Additional neighborhood parks less than 3 acres. 1 180 Urban park settings- i.e. cafe/ playground multi -generational . 2 181 Parking availability around parks. 0 182 Mass transit. 0 183 Bike connectors. 0 184 Light truss system for WPC amplitherer. 2 185 Cricket green. 0 186 Bocce ball courts. 0 187 Campgrounds. c143 188 Tot playgrounds. 1 189 Lights in cemetery. 0 190 Compete UPAC. 3 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Seniors February 7, 2005 16 Participants Number Responses Votes 101 Activity Center (Intergenerational activity center all would take part in - mix generations). c102 102 Intergenerational Center where Seniors can meet for a variety of activities (excellent example 44 @ Round Rock) exercise, gym, bridge, group meeting rooms, arts & crafts, exercise programs & facilities, storage & lockers, swimming, a gym, showers, educational classes. 103 An exercise program center (especially for seniors). c102 104 Meeting place for senior citizens to gather to visit, express their needs, & socialize with c102 satellite locations all kinds of places across town, benches in parks. 105 Senior Center c102 106 Community center with Senior Area c102 107 Community room where Seniors can gather for lectures, meetings, games, & various c102 functions. 108 Exercise Facilities c102 109 Senior Center c102 110 Exercise Area c102 111 Senior Service Headquarters c102 112 Senior Center c102 113 Sr. Activity Center, gym, swimming, classes - educational c102 114 A central center for all seniors for Brazos County - Central Location such as Central Park 7 when the Park Department moves. 115 A city operated web site for seniors to access - find out what's going on. 3 116 Opportunities to learn new things. c102 117 Information center for all local senior activities. c102 118 Learn with other seniors. Learn to read & fill out forms. c102 119 Rooms for group meetings. c102 120 We need a Sr. Center were we can leave our things out. c102 121 Transportation to Senior Center, doctor appointments, shopping, any activities for seniors, 30 bank, church, gym, & for events, field trips, activities). Match transportation times to program times. 122 Transportation for events. c121 123 Transportation for seniors to various locations. c121 124 Transportation c121 125 Public Transportation c121 126 Transportation to Doctor office, gym, shopping, Post Office, bank, church. c121 127 Transportation from the various retirement communities in College Station to our future Sr. c121 Citizen center. 128 Extended time at Sr. Center and better transportation support. c121 129 Extended time at center (transportation times do not match programs/needs - sometimes only c121 there 30 minutes). 130 Short loop, walking & handicap paved trails & benches along the path to enjoy the parks 2 (Biking trails to long). 131 Walking Paths for seniors, shorter with benches. c130 132 Handicap accessibility to parks. 2 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Seniors Continued February 7, 2005 16 Participants Number Responses Votes 133 Walking / Exercise program at Central park. 0 134 More field trips for seniors. c135 135 Day Trips & activities using CS buses & vans w/ more field trips. c121 136 Walking tour of Northgate & historic places. 1 137 Full-time Senior Coordinator with good accessible office seniors can get to easily. 18 138 Softball fields with 300 ft lines for statewide tournaments. 0 139 Year-round fishing at Central Park. 0 140 Advertising Senior programs on calendar, utility bill, & Channel 19. Calendar print too small. 1 141 Tables for picnics at parks. 0 142 Pavilions (only 2 accessible in city). Covered for Seniors. 2 143 Senior Center c102 144 Better coordination between seniors, Gold Medal, Active Adventures. 2 145 Ways for retired people to volunteer or use their particular talents to better others in the city. c147 146 Programs that make it easy for seniors to give back to the community. c147 147 City run talent pool & programs to volunteer. 2 148 Arts & Crafts @ center c102 149 In Tulsa, OK they had a creek that flooded. They made a holding pond, when the pond was 0 dry it was a soccer field. 150 City wide tournaments for seniors - Dominoes, Bridge. 0 151 Some one available to give blood pressure checks, free notary public service, claim c102 information help, help with taxes, bill payment, etc.. Set times available to seniors. 152 Use the special talents of the seniors to help seniors. For example, if you were an accountant, c147 volunteer your time to help your fellow seniors with taxes/bill payments. Seniors share talents w/ seniors at center. 153 Need museum on WWII with tape of people who live here and were there. Pictures, Stories. 2 154 Something beside Bush Library to bring in people to BCS. Maybe a outlet mall. 0 155 Volunteer to share your history w/ school children. 0 156 Places for unorganized activity, play dominoes, park benches, for non -joiners. 3 157 Build a number of small lakes for flooding. The lakes could be used for fishing. The core of 1 Engineers will give money and the Texas Fish & Game would stock the Lake with fish. "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Special Interests January 28, 2005 9 Participants Number Responses Votes 101 Equestrian trails adequate for wagon rides. c106 102 Converting greenway R.O.W. to aerobic trails. c106 103 Equestrian facilities. c106 104 Equestrian facilities that are easily accessible to college students. 2 105 Trails with equestrian camping. c106 106 15 - 20 mile equestrian trails with a varied terrain with multiple access points for 18 wagon's and riders with campgrounds and water. 107 World class R/C aircraft facility 75x1000' RW, clubhouse, lights, restrooms, water, 19 covered pavilion, bleachers, spectator area, BBQ, taxiway, pilot stations, maint. and storage shed, paved parking, with controlled access. 108 Flying club needs 50-60 acre for field. Flyover area could be leased for grazing. 7 109 R/C large un -occupied flyover area. c107 110 Flying club needs clubhouse. 0 111 R/C area needs electricity and lights. c107 112 Including covered pavilion with electricity. c107 113 Water and restrooms. c107 114 RIC paved runway 75'x1000. c107 115 R/C club needs bleachers for spectators. c107 116 With paved runway, taxiways, pilot stations, and parking lot. c107 117 R/C needs maintenance shed/garage for storage. c107 118 Arena facilities for equestrians use with adequate parking. 11 119 R/C Club needs concession stand and BBQ pit for events. c107 120 There needs to be more recreations facilities appealing to disenfranchised youth. 6 121 Skate board/bladers/bike (bmx) park with stunt ramps and 1/2 barrels, and high and 0 low appear. 122 Incorporating design changes in new /rebuild roadways. 0 123 Linking rec. areas and schools w/ bike trails/routes/paths. 4 124 Common parking for needs of RVs with hookups/parking for events and adequate 4 for large rigs. 125 Parking for large Rigs at Equestrian areas. c124 126 15-20 several miles of Equestrian trails. c106 127 One day of auto free roads. 0 128 Parking for large Equestrian functions. c107 129 R/C club needs controlled access. c107 130 Cyclo -cross training course (unpaved path 1-3 km in length with grade changes). 1 131 Paved bike trail in recovered landfill example: Austin Veloway. 0 132 Need temporary area to fly until landfill is opened as flying field. 0 133 Incorporate equestrian/multiuse trails into Greenbelt R.O.W. 3 134 Have C.S. develop position/stand promoting the linkage of linear parks in the county 0 & region. 135 Horse holding pens adjacent to RV parking. 5 136 Equestrian trails with water access to water along them. c106 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Combined NGT February 24,2005 16 Participants Number Responses Votes 501 Create youth education programs such as summer camps, junior park ranger, children's and BVM 10 museum & life skills classes. 502 Full-time senior coordinator with good accessible office seniors can get to easily. c509 503 Park land dedication should connect to greenways and school campuses wherever possibility. c514 504 Improved continuous bike trails. c521 505 Lack of free & unlocked softball fields. c512 506 Match transportation times to program times (transportation to senior center, doctor appointments, 0 507 Variety water aerobic classes at different times of the day morning and afternoon to include prenatal. 0 508 Access to Multi Use Fields for Cricket, Lacrosse, Rugby - Field Use - Open Space. 22 509 Intergenerational Center Where Seniors can meet for a variety of activities (excellent example @ Round 20 Rock) exercise, gym, bridge, group meeting rooms, arts & crafts, exercise programs, & facilities, storage 510 Create nature centers and interpretive nature trails at appropriate parks. 4 511 Improved safety features for existing pool facilities, decks, and showers, grounded, ventilation, lights 4.5 (overhead and pool), lifeguard chair in way, slippery deck. 512 More free and unlocked softball and other fields. Fees charged for field & lights reservations are too high 16 513 Flying club needs 50-60 acres for field flyover area —could be leased for grazing. 0 514 Every park and school should be connected by bike paths, trails, or greenways. Zoned if possible. 3 515 New Indoor/Outdoor water park with multiple uses (Frisbee golf, water gardens, picnic grounds, lazy river 9 and slides). All day activities and party rooms. 516 A park that has a lot of activities to do with my family. Frisbee, Roller-skate, Basketball, etc. 0 517 Arena facilities for equestrians use with adequate parking. 6 518 Maintenance on other parks other than Vet, Cent, S.W.V. 0 519 Year round indoor/outdoor aquatic facility w/multiple uses (i.e. lap lanes - zero depth ). 29 520 15 - 20 mile equestrian trails with a varied terrain with multiple access points for wagon's and riders with 13 equips. camp grounds and water. 521 More off-street bike trails. City-wide network. Connect Bee Creek and Central Park. Make trails 22 continuous. 522 Improve maintenance at pool (i.e. reliable heater for pool, non -slip floors in dressing room, water faucets 5.5 which are manually controlled, more room!). 523 World class R/C aircraft facility 75x1000 RW club house lights, restrooms, water, covered pavilion, 15 bleachers, spectator area, and BBQ. 524 Keep drugs out of parks. Safer parks. Need cameras, full-time security, and posted curfews. 19.5 525 Dedicated space for teens only at LRC (800 sq. ft.). 4 526 Speed bumps in residential areas around LRC. 3.5 527 Swimming pool for W.A. Tarrow Park. 19 528 Classes for tire changes. oil changes, sewing, cooking classes. Hands on training. c501 529 Wheel chair accessibility RR/Stands/ facilities. 4 530 Handicap lifts at all pools. 4 531 Unisex bathrooms/ change rooms/ showers at pools. 4 532 Speed up with Veteran's Park Phase II & III Plans. 4 533 Continue with Lighting Central Park & Veteran's Park. Plans in Place to provide practice & game fields. 4 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Public Meeting Group 1 March 3,2005 18 Participants Comb. Number Responses Votes Votes* 101 Youth center for Junior high and high school students for after school 5 102 Summer day camp program (currently only in June) 4 103 Craft programs for kids 0 104 More neighborhood swim pools with ample lap areas 19 20 105 Adult swim league 0 106 Swim pools 0 107 Another pool with separate areas for different ages that will be large enough for laps and 0 exercise 108 More lap pool areas 0 109 Park connectivity (i.e.). hiking and biking trails 5 110 More natural parks with longer trails 21 18 111 Park and trail connectivity 0 112 Bicycle routes (continuous and safer) 0 113 jogging trails with fitness stations 0 114 More bike paths 0 115 Mountain bike trails near town 0 116 Walking paths thru town 0 117 Areas near athletic fields so that families can exercise while some members participate in 0 group activities 118 greenways connecting parks in Bryan and College Station (Utility R.O.W?) 0 119 Make the parks bike friendly. Not all parks are reachable by bike. 0 120 Green space trails (biking, hiking, wildlife, etc.) 0 121 Non-developed quiet green space - walking areas 0 122 Hike and bike trails 0 123 More areas for wildlife (without dogs and bikes) Like Lick Creek when it first opened 0 124 Large regional multi -use park closer than Lake Summerville 12 11 125 To attract outdoor activities: kites, Frisbees, etc. festivals 0 126 Use flood plain/creeks for connections between and among homes 0 127 Get ready for golf -cart size vehicles- they'll make more and more sense- are green 0 spaces- trails designed to accommodate 128 Boating lakes 0 129 After School programs for kids with crafts etc. 0 6 130 Grills and tables picnics and reunions 0 131 Clean-up local park 0 132 Repair Gabbard Park Deck 0 133 Install better lights (Winwood) 0 134 Make each development have a real park- don't count the medium as in Pebble Creek. 0 Green space is important. 135 Alexandria subdivision area, north of Barron Rd. playground 5 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. ' Combined Votes were cast when all participants were brought together to discuss and rank the top choices from each group. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Public Meeting Group 1 Continued March 3,2005 18 Participants Comb. Number Responses Votes Votes* 136 More Recreation equipment for toddlers 4 137 Improve Central Park facility for Seniors meeting area- for the immediate use 0 138 Make preliminary drawing of the city center and position a Senior ?? And recreation 5 within that city center plot 139 Safety City 10 140 Dog Park 18 141 Dog Park 0 142 Dog Park 0 143 Frisbee Golf Course 0 144 Re-open/create rest area on Hwy 6- greeting center 0 145 Walking clubs 0 146 More canvas covered play areas 0 147 Transportation to recreation facilities for people who can't drive themselves 3 148 Community venue for music and theater 0 149 Horse and pony cart driving access to roads - not just parades but by arrangement 0 150 Build non -waste into the facilities- sustainability 12 11 151 R.V. Parks - Football other events need parking 0 152 Environmentally friendly landscaping at all parks (Xeriscape, water wise, native, etc.) 5 153 More physical beauty when planning parks 0 154 More and bigger meeting space (with parking, space for weddings, etc) 0 155 rock climbing wall 0 156 Diaper changing station at WPC amphitheater 0 156b Future parks have ample parking 0 157 Japanese Flower/Botanical Garden 0 158 Flower Gardens 0 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. • Combined Votes were cast when all participants were brought together to discuss and rank the top choices from each group. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Public Meeting Group 2 March 3,2005 18 Participants Comb. Number Responses Votes Votes* 201 More disc Golf courses c203 202 Frisbee Golf c203 203 Kite and open field parks for Frisbee golf, practice fields 10 7 204 More Driving Ranges 0 205 Horse-shoe pit 0 206 An actual designated dog park fenced c207 207 Fenced local pet play areas for exercising dogs, turtles, etc. 18 44 208 Dog Park c207 209 Fenced dog park c207 210 Indoor/Outdoor water park / rec center 8.5 211 Pool 0 212 Integrate parks and water bodies 4 213 Swimming pool Lincoln center 3 214 Sr. Aquatics facility 0 215 Year round stocked fishing ponds or lakes 12 15 216 Lake or a great place to fish 0 217 Stocked fishing pond c215 218 More ponds stocked for fishing c215 219 Fishing most of year c215 220 Sculpture garden variety in parks like a rock garden etc. and butterfly garden 4 221 Have nature programs -events at Bee Creek Arboretum, Hansel Park, Lick Creek Park, 1 Wolf Pen Creek Park, etc. 222 Wolf Pen Park free of swamp conditions improve drainage 0 223 Butterfly garden c220 224 Wolf creek drainage c222 225 Indoor and or outdoor facilities for students to jog/walk/ride biked safely at night 10 12 226 Bike pathways on all roads 2.5 227 Exercise trail sidewalks around perimeter of High Scholl for walkers/joggers (so we don't 3 have to walk in street or mud and grass) 228 Walking trails with designated lengths in path and public areas (for walk across Texas, c231 229 Exercise trail around CS High School c227 230 More running trails c231 231 All weather jogging/bike trails with trees with mile markers 9 9 232 Hiking trails with rocks, terrain, and topography 2 233 Hiking Park c233 234 A jogging trail over 4 miles long (no street crossing) c234 235 Skate park 0 236 Equestrian Trails 6 237 Horse Trailer Turn -around and wash rack 0 238b Wireless internet in the whole city 0 238 Horse trails 0 239 Horse Trails c238 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. * Combined Votes were cast when at participants were brought together to discuss and rank the top choices from each group. What park and recreation facilities and services are lacking in the College Station area which are necessary to support the needs of your family or the organization you represent? Public Meeting Group 2 March 3,2005 18 Participants Number Responses Votes 239 Wireless Internet in the parks c245 240 Wireless Internet in parks c245 241 Wireless Internet in parks c245 242 Another movie theater and perhaps a drive in 2 243 More public open services- drinking water, rest rooms, upgrade maintenance etc. 0 244 W.A. Tarrow Park restrooms, pavilions, water fountain, at Lincoln center 6 245 Create opportunities for using electronic equipment, for example, orienteering games 9 13 using GPS receivers wireless Internet parks 246 Put more niches along trails in Lick Creek Park 0 247 Softball fields with 300 ft. lines 0 248 Need Senior Center 5 249 Extra Ed classes in one place 0 250 Make the current city hall onto a site for classes that the city provides for all ages and for ; 4 251 Park Facilities more handicap friendly 3 252 Aquarium 0 253 Have "visit a park day" every other month with special activities at the chosen park 0 254 Pedestrian walkways across roads [either over or under] 1 255 Book crossing site 0 256 Central place for indoor recreational meetings 1 257 Camping gear for rent 3 258 Rock Bouldering 0 259 Sculpture Gardens c220 260 More sporting fields (e.g. football, soccer, etc.) in the south part of town) 0 261 Another amphitheatre equipped with seating so it is more comfortable for the 0 handicapped and older people 262 Mountain bike trails 0 263 Ample parking space for all vehicles (off street) 2 264 Upgrade Park maintenance c243 265 Restrooms at parks that are open and upgrade maintenance c243 266 Weed control poison ivy bahigrass 0 "C" denotes combined item. Red text indicates edits made by participants during the combining phase. • Combined Votes were cast when all participants were brought together to discuss and rank the top choices from each group. Appendix B Community Wide Survey Instruments Citizen Survey PARD Employee Survey Other City Respondants Employee Survey Citizen Survey CITY OF COLLF,GE STATIO\ Parks & Recreation Needs Assessment Survey Conducted for the City of College Station by The Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences Texas A&M University 2005 1 Residents 1 1. How often do you and/or someone in your household use each of the following College Station park facilities and recreation programs? (Circle one on each line) About About A few Almost Once Once Times Not Daily a Week a Month a Year at All Neighborhood/Community Parks.. D W M Y N Walking Trails/ Bike Paths D W M Y N Recreation Center D W M Y N Outdoor Basketball Courts D W M Y N Wolf Pen Amphitheatre D W M Y N Lincoln Center D W M Y N Picnic Tables/Pavilions D W M Y N Ponds/ Lakes D W M Y N Swimming Pools D W M Y N Playgrounds D W M Y N Volleyball Courts D W M Y N Tennis Courts D W M Y N Adult Baseball Fields D W M Y N Adult Softball Fields D W M Y N Adult Soccer Fields D W M Y N Adult Flag Football Fields D W M Y N Youth Baseball Fields D W M Y N Youth Softball Fields D W M Y N Youth Soccer Fields D W M Y N Youth Flag Football Fields D W M Y N Senior Programs D W M Y N Kids Klub D W M Y N Xtra Education D W M Y N Teen Activities D W M Y N Fitness Programs D W M Y N Festivals/Events D W M Y N EXIT Teen Center D W M Y N Residents 2 2. The Parks Department has a limited amount of resources and seeks guidance on where best to invest them. Please circle the PRIORITY LEVEL you feel should be associated with each of the following items (Circle one on each line). Provide lighting for walking and jogging paths NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide more shade trees at parks NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide quiet, green spaces throughout the city NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide storage for sports leagues' equipment NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide playgrounds at athletic fields NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide more walking paths around parks and athletic fields NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Improve accessibility for those with disabilities (e.g., pool lifts, sidewalks, parking, bathrooms) NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Link parks, neighborhoods, and schools with hike and bike trails NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide a wider variety of aquatic classes NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Acquire additional park land NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Offer Xtra Education Classes on weekends NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide more access to the indoor pool at the Junior High School during school vacations. NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide more art and music programs NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide personal growth classes (e.g., car maintenance, career development) NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide more seasonal color and landscaping in parks NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide tables in parks for chess, checkers, cards etc. NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide space for new activities such as cricket, lacrosse, rugby NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Improve public bus transportation to existing park and recreation facilities NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide more directional signs identifying the way to parks NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Place more benches in parks and along trails NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide technology in parks (wireless access, geocoding) NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Allocate more funds to enhance the maintenance of existing parks NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide more undesignated, open play space at neighborhood parks ... NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide more trees along city streets NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Provide a dedicated Senior Center NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH Residents 3 3. The quality of the city's park and recreation services is primarily determined by the magnitude of funds the city invests in them. It is likely that increases in tax support would enhance the quality of EXISTING park and recreation services, while decreases would reduce it. Would you like to see the level of tax support for park and recreation services changed? If so, by how much? (Please check one of the following.) Reduce the tax support by: Increase tax support by: - 20% -15% -10% -5% Remain the +5% same +10% +15% +20% Would you like to see the city's tax investment in NEW park and recreation facilities change? If so, by how much? (Please check one of the following.) Reduce the tax support by: - 20% -15% -10% -5% Remain the same +5% Increase tax support by: +10% +15% +20% 4. Please identify the top 5 facilities from the following list on which you would like to see College Station give priority in its investments over the next ten years. Please ONLY SELECT 5 facilities and put a check alongside each of them. Open Space Fields Dog Park Cultural/Art Center Large Regional Park Art/Music Facilities Indoor pool Skate Park Indoor Recreation Center Ponds/Lakes Senior Center Outdoor Tennis Courts Gardens/ Arboretum Equestrian Trails Walking/Biking Trails Adult Softball Fields Adult Soccer Fields Fitness Stations Playgrounds Youth Softball Fields Youth Soccer Fields Camping Areas Indoor Play Areas Pavilions Neighborhood Parks Picnic Areas Water Park Nature Trails Nature Center Outdoor Neighborhood Pools Frisbee Golf Course Archery fields Indoor Tennis Courts Remote Control Model Airplane Facility Adult Baseball Fields Adult Football Fields Youth Baseball Fields Youth Football Fields Horseshoe pits Zoo Bocce courts Extensive regional trail system (15 - 20 mites) Residents 4 5. In the following section, please read each statement and CIRCLE the response which indicates how much you agree or disagree with each statement regarding College Station Park and Recreation Services. Strongly I have no Strongly Agree Agree Knowledge Disagree Disagree I am well-informed about College Station's park facilities and recreation programs SA A NK D SD The Department should work more closely with schools to develop parks and offer programs SA A NK D SD College Station parks and recreation facilities are accessible to people with disabilities SA A NK D SD College Station Parks are well maintained and clean SA A NK D SD In general, I am satisfied with the facilities and services provided by the Parks & Recreation Department SA A NK D SD The Department should work more closely with police and fire personnel on safety in parks/neighborhoods SA A NK D SD Overall, the City of College Station has a "park -like" ambiance about it. SA A NK D SD I am satisfied with the availability of fields and open spaces for unscheduled use SA A NK D SD The swimming pools are too crowded SA A NK D SD I am well-informed about plans for parks in my neighborhood SA A NK D SD It is easy for me to offer feedback to the park department and to obtain answers from them to any questions...._ SA A NK D SD The Department should work more closely with neighborhood groups to plan and maintain parks SA A NK D SD Automobile traffic around parks should be diverted or slowed down SA A NK D SD I can get to my favorite park facilities on foot or by bicycle SA A NK D SD Residents ( 5 6. To help the city prioritize future investment decisions we would like you to please indicate, how IMPORTANT you view each of the following issues in the City of College Station: Not at all Extremely In College Station: Important Neutral Important Helping youth to develop into productive citizens is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Improving air quality is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Ensuring that parks are easily accessible to residents from their homes is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Convincing businesses to locate in this community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing role models for adolescents is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Supporting and working with community health organizations is l 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing amenities in the community that older adults want is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Reducing the amount of energy consumed by residents is1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Designing programs specifically for older adults is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Getting tourists to spend money in the city is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Helping people build healthy lifestyles is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Developing attractions that draw people from other cities is... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing youth with positive ways to fill their free time is ... I 2 3 4 5 6 7 Requiring that developers provide park space for people in their developments is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Helping adults build skills that can be used in the workplace is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Keeping neighborhood parks well maintained is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Offering programs that meet the needs of people who are unemployed is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Encouraging Senior Citizens to become involved in the community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Educating residents on the benefits of healthy activity is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Protecting environmentally sensitive areas is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Encouraging executives and professionals to live in this community is 1 2 3 4 5 6• 7 Supporting and working with community welfare and employment agencies is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing programs at which retired people can socialize together is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Hosting events that bring tourism revenue to local businesses is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Residents 6 In this section, we are interested in your perceptions of the College Station Parks and Recreation Department's CURRENT CONTRIBUTIONS to each of the items: The College Station Parks and Recreation Department's Contribution to: Very Small Neutral Very Large Helping youth to develop into productive citizens is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Improving air quality is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Ensuring that parks are easily accessible to residents from their homes is I 2 3 4 5 6 7 Convincing businesses to locate in this community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing role models for adolescents is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Supporting and working with community health organizations is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing amenities in the community that older adults want is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Reducing the amount of energy consumed by residents is1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Designing programs specifically for older adults is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Getting tourists to spend money in the city is l 2 3 4 5 6 7 Helping people build healthy lifestyles is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Developing attractions that draw people from other cities is... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 ( Providing youth with positive ways to fill their free time is ... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Requiring that developers provide park space for people in their developments is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Helping adults build skills that can be used in the workplace is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Keeping neighborhood parks well maintained is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Offering programs that meet the needs of people who are unemployed is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Encouraging Senior Citizens to become involved in the community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Educating residents on the benefits of healthy activity is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Protecting environmentally sensitive areas is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Encouraging executives and professionals to live in this community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Supporting and working with community welfare and employment agencies is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing programs at which retired people can socialize together is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Hosting events that bring tourism revenue to local businesses is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Residents 7 We are collecting the following information in order to understand the characteristics of our study participants. All of the information will be kept confidential and only reported at the group level. Are you? (Check one) Male Female In what kind of residence do you live? (Check one) Single Family Home Town House or Condominium Apartment Building Mobile Home Other: Please indicate Do you own or rent your home in College Station? (Check One) Own Rent Are you a College or University Student? (Check One) Yes No What is your year of birth? (Please state a year on the line below.) Including yourself, indicate the NUMBER of people in your household who are in the following age categories: (If none, write "0") NUMBER Under 5 years of age 6-10 years old 11-14 years old 15-18 years old 19-34 years old 35- 54 years old 55-64 years old 65 years or older What ethnicity do you consider yourself? (Check one) American Indian Asian Black /African American Caucasian /Anglo American Hispanic Other Is there anything else you would like to tell us regarding College Station's Park and Recreation Services? THANK YOU FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE! If you have any questions, please contact Pamela Springfield, at 979-764-3414 Return your survey in the postage -paid envelope to the City of College Station P.O. Box 9960 College Station, TX 77842-9960 :sidents 7 We are collecting the following information in order to understand the characteristics of our study participants. All of the information will be kept confidential and only reported at the group level. Are you? (Check one) Male Female In what kind of residence do you live? (Check one) Single Family Home Town House or Condominium Apartment Building Mobile Home Other: Please indicate Do you own or rent your home in College Station? (Check One) Own Rent Are you a College or University Student? (Check One) Yes No What is your year of birth? (Please state a year on the line below.) Including yourself, indicate the NUMBER of people in your household who are in the following age categories: (If none, write "0") NUMBER Under 5 years of age 6-10 years old 11-14 years old 15-18 years old 19-34 years old 35- 54 years old 55-64 years old 65 years or older What ethnicity do you consider yourself? (Check one) American Indian Caucasian /Anglo American Asian Black /African American Hispanic Other Is there anything else you would like to tell us regarding College Station's Park and Recreation Services? THANK YOU FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE! If you have any questions, please contact Pamela Springfield, at 979-764-3414 Retum your survey in the postage -paid envelope to the City of College Station P.O. Box 9960 College Station, TX 77842-9960 sidents 1 Employee Survey CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Parks & Recreation Needs Assessment Survey Conducted for the City of College Station by The Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences Texas A&M University 2005 1. The Parks Department has a limited amount of resources and seeks guidance on where best PRIORITY LEVEL you feel should be associated with each of the following items (Circle one Provide lighting for walking and jogging paths NONE LOW Provide more shade trees at parks NONE LOW Provide quiet, green spaces throughout the city NONE LOW Provide storage for sports leagues equipment NONE LOW Provide playgrounds at athletic fields NONE LOW Provide more walking paths around parks and athletic fields NONE LOW Improve accessibility for those with disabilities (e.g., pool lifts, sidewalks, parking, bathrooms) NONE LOW Link parks, neighborhoods, and schools with hike and bike trails NONE LOW Provide a wider variety of aquatic classes NONE LOW Acquire additional park land NONE LOW Offer Xtra Education Classes on weekends NONE LOW Provide more access to the indoor pool at the Junior High School during school vacations NONE LOW Provide more art and music programs Provide personal growth classes (e.g., car maintenance, career development) Provide more seasonal color and landscaping in parks Provide tables in parks for chess, checkers, cards Provide space for new activities such as cricket, lacrosse, rugby Improve public bus transportation to existing park and recreation facilities Provide more directional signs identifying the way to parks Place more benches in parks and along trails Provide technology in parks (wireless access, geocoding) Allocate more funds to enhance the maintenance of existing parks Provide more undesignated, open play space at neighborhood parks ... Provide more trees along city streets 1 to invest them. Please circle the on each line). MEDIUM HIGH MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH MEDIUM HIGH NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH PARD Employees 2. Please identify the top 5 facilities from the following list on which you would like to see College Station give priority in its investments over the next ten years. Please ONLY SELECT 5 facilities and put a check alongside each of them. Open Space Fields Dog Park Cultural/Art Center Large Regional Park Art/Music Facilities Indoor pool Skate Park Indoor Recreation Center Ponds/Lakes Senior Center Outdoor Tennis Courts Gardens/ Arboretum Equestrian Trails Walking/Biking Trails Adult Softball Fields Adult Soccer Fields Fitness Stations Playgrounds Youth Softball Fields Youth Soccer Fields Camping Areas Indoor Play Areas Pavilions Neighborhood Parks Picnic Areas Water Park Nature Trails Nature Center Outdoor Neighborhood Pools Frisbee Golf Course Archery fields Indoor Tennis Courts Remote Control Model Airplane Facility Adult Baseball Fields Adult Football Fields Youth Baseball Fields Youth Football Fields Horseshoe pits Zoo Bocce courts Extensive regional trail system (15 - 20 miles) 3. To help the city prioritize future investment decisions we would like you to view each of the following issues in the City of College Station? Not at all In College Station, Important please indicate, how IMPORTANT you Neutral Helping youth to develop into productive citizens is 1 2 3 4 5 Improving air quality is 1 2 3 4 5 Ensuring that parks are easily accessible to residents from their homes is 1 2 3 4 5 Convincing businesses to locate in this community is ..... 1 2 3 4 5 Providing role models for adolescents is 1 2 3 4 5 Supporting and working with community health organizations is 1 2 3 4 5 Providing amenities in the community that older adults want is 1 2 3 4 5 Reducing the amount of energy consumed by residents is.. 1 2 3 4 5 Designing programs specifically for older adults is 1 2 3 4 5 Getting tourists to spend money in the city is _ 1 2 3 4 5 Helping people build healthy lifestyles 1 2 3 4 5 Developing attractions that draw people from other cities is... 1 2 3 4 5 Providing youth with positive ways to fill their free time is ... 1 2 3 4 5 Requiring that developers provide park space for people in their developments is 1 2 3 4 2 Extremely Important 6 7 6 7 6 7 6 7 6 7 6 7 6 7 6 7 6 7 6 7 6 7 6 7 6 7 5 6 7 PARD Employees 3 Not at all Extremely In College Station, Important Neutral Important Helping adults build skills that can be used in the workplace is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Keeping neighborhood parks well maintained is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Offering programs that meet the needs of people who are unemployed is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Encouraging Senior Citizens to become involved in the community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Educating residents on the benefits of healthy activity is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Protecting environmentally sensitive areas is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Encouraging executives and professionals to live in this community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Supporting and working with community welfare and employment agencies is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing programs at which retired people can socialize together is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Hosting events that bring tourism revenue to local businesses is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 4.1n this section, we are interested in your perceptions of the College Station Parks and Recreation Department's CURRENT CONTRIBUTIONS to each of the items The College Station Parks and Recreation Department's Contribution to: Very Very Small Neutral Large Helping youth to develop into productive citizens is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Improving air quality is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Ensuring that parks are easily accessible to residents from their homes is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Convincing businesses to locate in this community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing role models for adolescents is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Supporting and working with community health organizations is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing amenities in the community that older adults want is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Reducing the amount of energy consumed by residents is.. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Designing programs specifically for older adults is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Getting tourists to spend money in the city is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Helping people build healthy lifestyles 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Developing attractions that draw people from other cities is... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 PARD Employees 4 The College Station Parks and Recreation Department's Contribution to: Very Small Neutral Very Large Providing youth with positive ways to fill their free time is ... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Requiring that developers provide park space for people in their developments is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Helping adults build skills that can be used in the workplace is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Keeping neighborhood parks well maintained is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Offering programs that meet the needs of people who are unemployed is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Encouraging Senior Citizens to become involved in the community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Educating residents on the benefits of healthy activity is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Protecting environmentally sensitive areas is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Encouraging executives and professionals to live in this community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Supporting and working with community welfare and employment agencies is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing programs at which retired people can socialize together is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Hosting events that bring tourism revenue to local businesses is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 5. We are collecting the following information in order to understand the characteristics of our study participants. All of the information will be kept confidential and only reported at the group level. Which of the following best represents your employment category with the PARD? (check one) Part-time Front-line, support staff Supervisors Senior Manager (Superintendents/ Directors) Is there anything else you would like to tell us regarding College Station's Park and Recreation Services? PARD Employees r r 1 PARD Employee Survey CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Parks & Recreation Needs Assessment Survey Conducted for the City of College Station by The Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences Texas A&M University 2005 1. How often does your department work with or on the following College Station Park facilities and programs? (Circle one on each line) About About A few Almost Once Once Times Not Daily a Week a Month a Year at All Neighborhood/Community Parks.. D W M Y N Walking Trails/ Bike Paths D W M Y N Recreation Center D W M Y N Outdoor Basketball Courts D W M Y N Wolf Pen Amphitheatre ............. D W M Y N Lincoln Center D W M Y N Picnic Tables/Pavilions D W M Y N Ponds/ Lakes D W M Y N Swimming Pools D W M Y N Playgrounds D W M Y N Volleyball Courts D W M Y N Tennis Courts D W M Y N Athletic Fields D W M Y N Senior Programs D W M Y N Kids Klub D W M Y N Xtra Education D W M Y N Teen Activities D W M Y N Fitness Programs D W M Y N Festivals/Events D W M Y N EXIT Teen Center D W M Y N Urban Forests D W M Y N City Tree Streets D W M Y N City Right of Ways D W M Y N City Visual Quality D W M Y N Greenways D W M Y N City Employees 2. The Parks Department has a limited amount of resources and seeks guidance on where best PRIORITY LEVEL you feel should be associated with each of the following items (Circle one Provide lighting for walking and jogging paths NONE LOW Provide more shade trees at parks NONE LOW Provide quiet, green spaces throughout the city NONE LOW Provide storage for sports leagues equipment NONE LOW Provide playgrounds at athletic fields NONE LOW Provide more walking paths around parks and athletic fields NONE LOW Improve accessibility for those with disabilities (e.g., pool lifts, sidewalks, parking, bathrooms) NONE LOW Link parks, neighborhoods, and schools with hike and bike trails NONE LOW Provide a wider variety of aquatic classes NONE LOW Acquire additional park land NONE LOW Offer Xtra Education Classes on weekends .... NONE LOW Provide more access to the indoor pool at the Junior High School during school vacations NONE LOW Provide more art and music programs Provide personal growth classes (e.g., car maintenance, career development) Provide more seasonal color and landscaping in parks Provide tables in parks for chess, checkers, cards Provide space for new activities such as cricket, lacrosse, rugby Improve public bus transportation to existing park and recreation facilities Provide more directional signs identifying the way to parks Place more benches in parks and along trails Provide technology in parks (wireless access, geocoding) Allocate more funds to enhance the maintenance of existing parks Provide more undesignated, open play space at neighborhood parks ... Provide more trees along city streets Provide a designated Senior Center 2 to invest them. Please circle the on each line). MEDIUM HIGH MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH MEDIUM HIGH NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM NONE LOW MEDIUM HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH City Employees 3 3. Please identify the top 5 facilities from the following list on which you would like to see College Station give priority in its investments over the next ten years. Please ONLY SELECT 5 facilities and put a check alongside each of them. Open Space Fields Dog Park Nature Center Cultural/Art Center Large Regional Park Outdoor Neighborhood Pools Art/Music Facilities Indoor pool Frisbee Golf Course Skate Park Indoor Recreation Center Archery fields Ponds/Lakes Senior Center Indoor Tennis Courts Outdoor Tennis Courts Gardens/ Arboretum Remote Control Model Airplane Facility Equestrian Trails Walking/Biking Trails Adult Baseball Fields Adult Softball Fields Adult Soccer Fields Adult Football Fields Fitness Stations Playgrounds Youth Baseball Fields Youth Softball Fields Youth Soccer Fields Youth Football Fields Camping Areas Indoor Play Areas Horseshoe pits Pavilions Neighborhood Parks Zoo Picnic Areas Water Park Bocce courts Nature Trails Extensive regional trail system (15 - 20 miles) 4. In the following section, please read each statement and CIRCLE the response which indicates how much you agree or disagree with each statement regarding College Station Parks. Strongly Agree Agree I have no Strongly Knowledge Disagree Disagree I am well-informed about College Station's park facilities and recreation programs SA A NK D SD The Department should work more closely with schools to develop parks and offer programs SA A NK D SD College Station parks and recreation facilities are accessible to people with disabilities SA A NK D SD College Station Parks are well maintained and clean SA A NK D SD In general, I am satisfied with the facilities and services provided by the Parks & Recreation Department SA A NK D SD The Department should work more closely with police and fire departments on safety in parks/neighborhoods SA A NK D SD Overall, the City of College Station has a "park -like" ambiance about it SA A NK D SD City Employees Strongly I have no Strongly Agree Agree Knowledge Disagree Disagree The swimming pools are too crowded SA A NK D SD I am well-informed about plans for parks in my neighborhood SA A NK D SD It is easy for me to offer feedback to the park department and to obtain answers from them to any questions..... SA A NK D SD The Department should work more closely with neighborhood groups to plan and maintain parks SA A NK D SD Automobile traffic around parks should be diverted or slowed down I can get to my favorite park facilities on foot or by bicycle SA SA A NK D SD A NK D SD 4 5. To help the city prioritize future investment decisions we would like you to please indicate, how IMPORTANT you view each of the following issues in the City of College Station? Not at all Extremely In College Station, Important Neutral Important Helping youth to develop into productive citizens is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Improving air quality is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Ensuring that parks are easily accessible to residents from their homes is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Convincing businesses to locate in this community is ..... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing role models for adolescents is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Supporting and working with community health organizations is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing amenities in the community that older adults want is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Reducing the amount of energy consumed by residents is.. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Designing programs specifically for older adults is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Getting tourists to spend money in the city is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Helping people build healthy lifestyles 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Developing attractions that draw people from other cities is... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing youth with positive ways to fill their free time is ... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 City Employees In College Station, Not at all Important Neutral 5 Extremely Important Requiring that developers provide park space for people in their developments is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Helping adults build skills that can be used in the workplace is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Keeping neighborhood parks well maintained is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Offering programs that meet the needs of people who are unemployed is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Encouraging Senior Citizens to become involved in the community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Educating residents on the benefits of healthy activity is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Protecting environmentally sensitive areas is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Encouraging executives and professionals to live in this community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Supporting and working with community welfare and employment agencies is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing programs at which retired people can socialize together is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Hosting events that bring tourism revenue to local businesses is . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 6. In this section, we are interested in your perceptions of the College Station Parks and Recreation Department's CURRENT CONTRIBUTIONS to each of the items The College Station Parks and Recreation Department's Contribution to: Very Very Small Neutral Large Helping youth to develop into productive citizens is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Improving air quality is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Ensuring that parks are easily accessible to residents from their homes is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Convincing businesses to locate in this community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing role models for adolescents is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Supporting and working with community health organizations is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing amenities in the community that older adults want is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Reducing the amount of energy consumed by residents is1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Designing programs specifically for older adults is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Getting tourists to spend money in the city is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 City Employees 6 The College Station Parks and Recreation Department's Contribution to: Very Very Small Neutral Large Helping people build healthy lifestyles 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Developing attractions that draw people from other cities is... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing youth with positive ways to fill their free time is ... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Requiring that developers provide park space for people in their developments is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Helping adults build skills that can be used in the workplace is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Keeping neighborhood parks well maintained is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Offering programs that meet the needs of people who are unemployed is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Encouraging Senior Citizens to become involved in the community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Educating residents on the benefits of healthy activity is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Protecting environmentally sensitive areas is . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Encouraging executives and professionals to live in this community is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Supporting and working with community welfare and employment agencies is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Providing programs at which retired people can socialize together is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Hosting events that bring tourism revenue to local businesses is 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 We are collecting the following information in order to understand the characteristics of our study participants. All of the information will be kept confidential and only reported at the group level. Which of the following best represents your employment What Department are you employed in? category with the city of College Station? (check one) Part-time Front-line and support staff Middle Management Senior Management Is there anything else you would like to tell us regarding College Station's Park and Recreation Services? City Employees Appendix C-- Tables The tables without a letter denote results of the citizen survey The letter A denotes results of the citizen survey The letter B denotes results of the citizen survey Tables 1A -1F Table 3A Table 3B Table 5 Table 5A Table 5B Table 6B Table 7 Table 7A Table 7B Table 8 Table 8A Table 8B Table 9B TABLE 1D N=534 What ethnicity do you consider yourself? • 3,032 consider themselves some other race and 1,365 consider themselves two or maore TABLE 1F N=534 Do you own or rent your home in College Station? Survey CS* wwl.v.,-,, Caucasian/An rIrkti7FfriVi k iiiErdij „......- _ Asian ":krifirgaW9 tioeto:1*.ol Total # % ;-_44-4,0k,; 428 84.09 ;-•-•;,i.:§,p=',.:.ZI- - - - ''''.?.i „ 36 7.07 ZW.IMP7,!, 039 : 509 100 # % zo,;olgiNvsp 54,489 77.60 tgl-JLO 1 50 AL.,„,..,__ „„.. 5,160 7.35 ..0 _ wv ;'•A'1Avv,.. 50 70,220 100 • 3,032 consider themselves some other race and 1,365 consider themselves two or maore TABLE 1F N=534 Do you own or rent your home in College Station? TABLES 1D -1F TABLE 1E 1\1=534 Gender Survey CS 1.k:Srili& a19: ----,7-A 4: .fTV*::Ak'zi--- Own 354 66.42 17,084 69.3 TZ'at i 33 10000 24,88i...1f,-460ie: TABLES 1D -1F TABLE 1E 1\1=534 Gender CS Residents Survey CS qa1:410.iktf..8-011k Male 1W-0: Zk-' il # % 262 49.25 Fe-70rOqg 7103:0-9.10 % 748-T6761: 51.20 ''':,,v7i cii00 CS Residents TABLE 3A --PARD EMPLOYEES The Parks Department has a limited amount of resources and seeks guidance on where best to invest them. Please circle the PRIORITY LEVEL you feel should be associated with each of the following items. N=58 PARD Employees None # % Low # % Medium # % High # % Total Score VA re. un s }d�enhance,the tnatntetattct ofexistin °arks 1 1.79 6 40.71 16 28.57 31 55:3.6 56 125 Improve accessibility for those with disabilities (e.g., pool lifts, sidewalks, parking, bathrooms) 2 3.51 8 14.04 25 43.86 22 38.60 57 116 1WW..5S ods and school ''' 'itqiike trails 2 3.57 [ 13 23'.21 24 42.86 17 30:36 56 99 :. ' Provide playgrounds at athletic fields 3 5.26 14 24.56 23 40.35 17 29.82 57 97 01,70 apdtaF ....vMIxr''''''''-'77'}`'',-,1'"'''"' 5 $ . f 2281 24 2.11 15 26,32 57, P437':'':! Provide lighting for walking and jogging paths 3 5.26 9 15.79 31 54.39 14 24.56 57 104 ISwftfngip4er• .,..xwv,: ara"'` r kkgsYg.? , .....vre..: 4 7[7lifN 7li 19.64 29 51.79 14 25,00 '56 100'. ..' Provide more walking paths around parks and athletic fields 4 7.27 16 29.09 21 38.18 14 25.45 55 84 ataidqgi e..t..s rsszFCI.:_g hyY ,,. .•,,. . ; 3 536 18 3214 �w.:u 39 29 7i..1-3 23.21 56 83 !: Place more benches in parks and along trails 6 10.53 10 17.54 29 50.88 12 21.05 57 94 P oelaers.o.::..nal grow..,.. t-.rh .clas..,s..es... ( g c... ar ma._.in. teni :,:..H.ria,,,'d,O,l�o _r_:d,t .._"M ..,f'.,,a�.,.'..c._.. 3 5:17 19'32:01,, r; �.+a.,r,', 3� 69 w742 0 58 84 ... Acquire additional park land 4 7.14 14 2 5.00 2646.43 12 21.43 56 88 • o d e a e: • , . ,61,1�. yliC ..-7. ,I ' w- ;:4ti4h-.7T67.7,-.0,4m,.:6 10,53 T .09 ' 12 21:05 57 7 Provide more access to the indoor pool at the Junior High School during school vacations 6 10.53 17 29.82 23 40.35 11 19.30 57 79 �nl;:H:r..�"'..:.._>,.vR-�u<s✓elaeve n:\Ixo:.eel7vf./�:n.,.+..,a .ry�`sa r!: 51w .lii.b,l,i,..l :�r`1.27:..�Ls�F:,a.r....,, rgv-1?��.P9_r.:;,�'/.t, .:.: .•.v, .s ., .:. , . ,. .:. 3,LJs,.z_.� :�1.-, r ... Provide more art and music programs 6 10.34 24 41.38 18 31.03 10 17.24 58 66 gro,•vvr1...4 , • 6.. ;• ti o ,,,, a t lacrosse; rugby ' '' 11 ' 18,97 30 51.72 7 '12.07 '..10-• 17:24 58 ' 44 Provide more directional signs identifying the way to parks 5 8.77 17 29.82 26 45.61 9 15.79 57 79 WO . a" oio a� a� 'a ` ess geocodtng) EC at ` • " 10 18.18 27 49.09 10 18.181'',W1.474:55 55 _ 44 Improve public bus transportation to existing park and recreation facilities 8 13.79 15 25.86 28 48.28 7 12.07 58 77 '�" � z Pi'dattde to 1 surpacl s cKlitss;,dhir ce +;; rm ..s. 1h 12 21:43 14 _'25.00 23 41.07 7 12:50 56'x' 67' Provide storage for sports leagues equipment 9 16.07 26 46.43 17 30.36 4 7.14 56 46 ,cf ^t 4 j , i 9' :'tt ' oitd4G2dli yyd'4''' 'r 7 i r ?.s '" l! '''xi, 0 •0 44,-4�,- • : 56.90 22 37 93 _6 :17 58 53 Provide more trees along city streets 8 14.29 28 50.00 19 33.93 3 5.36 56 47 PARD Employees TABLE 3B --EMPLOYEES The Parks Department has a limited amount of resources and seeks guidance on where best to Invest them. Please circle the priority level you feel should be associated with each of the following items N=283 City Employees None # % Low # L Medium # % High # %a Total Points Provide lighting for walking and jogging paths j110:§ve �aLo�s'91i414.4: �idf\n/ Tj`disabilities (e.g., pool 1 . 4. e ¢a 141168.*N 't46 nsj Provide more shade trees at parks Li parks neig igeifhoplrjanff: 'bhools with hike' and ' Provide a designated Senior Center r zt ci f r •:.Er1 , Pfotn le pia gaiids aT at Ietic fields Provide quiet, green spaces throughout the city Provide more walking"paths arourid parks and athletic fields. Allocate more funds to enhance the maintenance of existing parks Prove a t7rore'rees aeon cit streets Place more benches in parks and along trails OfferXTra Educatign` (aaKe's on'weekeho"s' '� • ' Provide more access to the indoor pool at the Junior High School during school vacations r « Providee"7sonal growth claSse5 e g ,;;car malhtenance ` .. L v ik ca�eet i�evelopment) �ry� .k ����� 3�k�����k: Acquire additional park land IF5,60 e' mbre:7directiojiat;s fga'' eefaT i64 fie a :tito. . 4 +:1 grr e}v!, 9t7 .: „r ,.?,>U'•°..1 + wi k ti4yy£i•.4 w �7� r�, I. '. ,.'-. Via°`.. i(,.. k(,. r1�.. 1JarkS. a 4. .w:..a ,w, �,.,. a.r c.:•';w.:r ku'_L�wrr,.':.,.Lwiz.'?,e.a.;.::�:w,:. t'ie'd '@ i:i .. .... _ _ Provide more undesignated, open play space at neighborhood parks x...p..i-.. rfr.:rx. � n.,- �rovlde mdre;art,andfuslc ro ram�- ;..; { � _....". „:,..,,:,:. ,..:,r.._,Pb..9�.:,;..-".,...t..,___....,.,_..r Provide more seasonal color and landscaping in parks •� ( ,[• j�+'S• ar.rl�,r•_.. ;7� �'`Vy +'k^...�•'0^oA,.y t.v: r-(��,iUCalC4 •l1Gw ".o -e - a tel. -.+`J kt.'it`: .,- '�Y�-Y' y,:,�„ � �+ i 1 • £�_ i, - f. If "` 1 P-,. .f, ,a .0 �e�W.d�t �y- • f"..c,5, kk �y'a+�B��.�'.uC$��'L3�t:.v+�i.b.���"ul'i:)yu Provide a wider variety of aquatic classes m••n„r-, O ,wn .�.m o:.,rr. ,.-n.. •,.r. -•r ,k , ,e:r. .ti .al' ,, '' ,•a,,a _ ; • ,,; � '. XiStl�' a, 3�'� d�itd° : ra. tmprotieau�lickbus'iransp�tat%n 9tz� f. rx .: ,b.,.,; '4:",,.. ckr... recreatr6nablltt es. M>::� ).rah �?a-��.��c.�.v. 9 3.25 11 3.99 15 5.43 13 4.69 19 6.91 .,,.,,,,;,14 5.04 21 7.61 15 5.43 17 6.12 1� 37 13.36 14 5.07 26 ''• 9.39 25 9.03 8' o r 24 : ::F ..- �i �L'�r 42 15.16 , , 978 ,. -..r` t,"", "•,., iia N L..-..:..,'_,:, >_ + u..:.....,.v.. _ a.,, 17 6.25 zt2 t..-ae.. ,.m 33' ;,< X11-:91 sir ..,h._1.�.,.�,_k.,�......•...,.�::_�_+...,_�_r.,:�.,k.��:,.._...,.y�,MW_.,�w...,....:��L._kuA:,� 31 11.19 1,a-,Cs�y 5 -t r.; <R Y!'s'4� 6i',':," m!.'{.+x a. e Te ;# •'s i' ' +d!n.:Lls.�SYrF�..5 �4,[•.ifs 25 8.99 ,en ^,:Yi ff... •, u,,: r s:; n � ,.:�-y 4�Sp ` .,. ?s,l�# 3.3:: x . 9t 45 Pr ,, �h,. ,�k.gc a �4 ;°, u*'`45 45'sr t� �k� 16.2, 5 ..::wy.-•w.i 60 21.90 32 22.22 49 24,87 73 36.68 71 34:47 96 43.64 103 71.53 137 69.54 111 55.78 122 59.22 105 47.73 133 48.01 79 28:62 77 27.90 71 25.63 55 20.00 277 276 276 277 275 605 511 453 457 375 64 28.57 146 65.18 54 19.42 278 454• „, 94 41.96 109 48.66 52 18.84 83 36.73 128 56.64 50 18.12 80 34.63 134 58.01 47 16.91 100 42.19 100 4219., ` b'`. "� "4',4i>A 95 39.42 132 54.77 35 12.68 : 122 50.21. 95 J3A q gt.,''' r ` rTat.II: 110 45.08 109 44.67 33 11.91 litr nn , r a g n ' r' ' +-a h, •,, ;a 5s n;,� ,�,,, y t< 115 33.0 ',y..;� f 11:96 ��kR,�r:H'��a`� �..._�.�ib3'����"�" 276 374 276 406., 278 409 &'44 a I? E' 0 t 276 369 4 , 29 CE 277 317 276 307 277 300 •, T'�.�` 101 41.22 102 41.63 y � 123 40 99 3 7 x ,.' 49 -,i'.6214, .::� by �, v ._, a,�i)'�,'•.i A;?�.¢+ �'�,,.,./i 'c u... .:.J...... :.....x:.�e ha �:. ,.,, b: �..,.+ 126 51.22 103 41.87 .,,..: x b ». r," %»,qf; -^` :..�;. � 16 fktl4�.a � i�*;,���4 + �� x,3' 5r � '� 119 46.85 104 40.94 F: '77'i.. :.vf "` Kv .�,. 4;";1.i ,;- :�,,. S�ii er(": :cap''�rF5 ., .. %. ,;i .i ,v. .�rtf"-`,'#�'t"aY.. t Y;i�, �+.,, •� 1 $��- *��` ,� t , 6` :''- 5 ' X11,• ,-z`'F 1f�Y IPe".!: 1�'b'4.�y.'t, / ,. .)!r.:R.'.w'�%.1ti&..5�..� S�YY�+..i:S Snu"!.,>,{d5L'e�•.,.Gz•4:�.:1.7:{,w:.�ic�ML`41�:�iB.i 32 r; � -.n.d4 26 ' �'" 24p�,_ �3.:._.,:.,�..,..�w__cf. 23 ., ��{� 11.55 t,® : `¢ :,,,...:v.:U�t,.,, r..,. :t i k'r�.J::ct" 'L 9.56 ;'+°ii> .',""� `J'"afirr` ,4; �-'8 6�6 ,. 8.30 'i:Y}t' �r n`i�^-4.14, i xf 'r.. ;,..fi ri9'1 a y :."i Ft .,a....- eT � ' .YcF i3.. Cr. , r�rZ7 ;s f ,�+,{�' �,.y.5 :Y :..,_.iL2c t�o:t. 272 284 t��u:1' ;r•.:':h ��>.�b� "2��7}' a -�+ '260 .tet ._.._.�„t._,,._._,..,a�., 277 277 i•�'.i1'�'h'°u �F': P. ` } ?'r27$�xi',� A� , ;94� `::r /27' .� i. ,,,:., }' t + l..w �vi,..,e L. tr4s' Elk C�^ . �e 141 54.86 91 35.41 21 7.55 278 245 kt' r.. .' 1'n..A,+ t ' .- :, RC,r" oaf,.. tr, i:.,rf 'v ', '3g ,* s�'f {9,.,. i,. � p "! r.,.r �' ,. � � F � :�'' , � :*��.c + �YI�Y`,�,,. +. � r*a w '�" z: ),I µ..e �v- g ': �75' 4�Q, 54 � s , �4t 7, .. w ,t. � 1..... �� .W'ixeWWK,,, J 2"u,M �'. $' i��sY•!"w48.46 89 ^tr:34.23 17 r�� 6.14 . it.P fi30�L,8� �'�8.,.�3�r. •E.a•126 l , I ' ww':�. e - . .0,P:�' 136 51.32 69 26.04 9 3.28 : a� .af::f. !y , -." • S'�s�• �' � i' '' :s 277 p�lpd22" 9 f ,,^. ' iti':4..y 274 165 Provide tables in parks for chess, checkers, cards Prodesaceor ewaves suchasftla.3 t r __.. �.. ._. vvr.. . .v, '�.1 �. n..4.:l:..e,�r:N..�...ctl L; _ua.rs_..ilt .,.e�...wSrvU �.i;,.bnr vd''.�.:.. '•�L) m•sra . lacrosseru�,,,, Provide storage for sports leagues equipment City Employees TABLE 5 -- RESIDENTS Please identify the top 5 facilities from the following list on which you would like to see College Station give priority in its investments over the next ten years. Please ONLY SELECT 5 facilities and put a check alongside each of them. N=534 Walking/Biking Trails 204 38.20 Nature Trails 157 29.40 Zoo 152 28.46 Water Park 145 27.15 Ponds/Lakes 140 26.22 Neighborhood Parks 124 23.22 Extensive regional trail system (15 - 20 123 23.03 Gardens/ Arboretum 110 20.60 Art/Music Facilities 106 19.85 Dog Park 101 18.91 Senior Center 100 18.73 Indoor pool 96 17.98 Nature Center 91 17.04 Outdoor Neighborhood Pools 77 14.42 Playgrounds 74 13.86 Indoor Recreation Center 71 13.30 Camping Areas 70 13.11 Picnic Areas 65 12.17 Cultural/Art Center 62 11.61 Skate Park 52 9.74 Fitness Stations 49 9.18 Large Regional Park 38 7.12 Frisbee Golf Course 37 6.93 Indoor Play Areas 36 6.74 Open Space Fields 35 6.55 Pavilions 31 5.81 Indoor Tennis Courts 28 5.24 Outdoor Tennis Courts 26 4.87 Horseshoe pits 25 4.68 Adult Softball Fields 24 4.49 Youth Soccer Fields 23 4.31 Equestrian Trails 22 4.12 Youth Baseball Fields 22 4.12 Youth Softball Fields 17 3.18 Archery fields 13 2.43 Remote Control Model Airplane Facility 13 2.43 Adult Football Fields 9 1.69 Bocce courts 9 1.69 Adult Baseball Fields 7 1.31 Adult Soccer Fields 6 1.12 Youth Football Fields 6 1.12 CS Residents TABLE 5A --PARD EMPLOYEES Please identify the top 5 facilities from the following list on which you would like to see College Station give priority to in its investments over the next ten years. N=58 # Water Park 34 58.62 Camping Areas 19 32.76 Zoo 19 32.76 Adult Softball Fields 15 25.86 Ponds/Lakes 14 24.14 Dog Park 13 22.41 Skate Park 13 22.41 Indoor Recreation Center 13 22.41 Large Regional Park 9 15.52 Walking/Biking Trails 9 15.52 Nature Center 8 13.79 Indoor pool 8 13.79 Senior Center 8 13.79 Neighborhood Parks 8 13.79 Remote Control Model Airplane Facility 6 10.34 Playgrounds 6 10.34 Indoor Play Areas 6 10.34 Horseshoe pits 6 10.34 Pavilions 6 10.34 Picnic Areas 6 10.34 Art/Music Facilities 5 8.62 Gardens/ Arboretum 5 8.62 Nature Trails 5 8.62 Cultural/Art Center 4 6.90 Outdoor Neighborhood Pools 4 6.90 Extensive regional trail system (15 - 20 miles) 4 6.90 Frisbee Golf Course 3 5.17 Equestrian Trails 3 5.17 Fitness Stations 3 5.17 Open Space Fields 2 3.45 Archery fields 2 3.45 Indoor Tennis Courts 2 3.45 Adult Football Fields 2 3.45 Bocce courts 2 3.45 Adult Baseball Fields 1 1.72 Adult Soccer Fields 1 1.72 Youth Softball Fields 1 1.72 Youth Soccer Fields 1 1.72 Outdoor Tennis Courts 0 0.00 Youth Baseball Fields 0 0.00 Youth Football Fields 0 0.00 PARD Employees TABLE 5B --EMPLOYEES Please identify the top 5 facilities from the following list on which you would like to see College Station give priority in its investments over the next ten years. N=283 # % Water Park 138 48.42 Zoo 98 34.39 Ponds/Lakes 67 23.51 Walking/Biking Trails 66 23.16 Indoor pool 61 21.40 Nature Trails 55 19.30 Extensive regional trail system (15 - 20 miles) 54 18.95 Senior Center 53 18.60 Camping Areas 48 16.84 Dog Park 45 15.79 Gardens/ Arboretum 43 15.09 Horseshoe pits 38 13.33 Archery fields 36 12.63 Playgrounds 34 11.93 Outdoor Neighborhood Pools 33 11.58 Pavilions 33 11.58 Nature Center 32 11.23 Large Regional Park 32 11.23 Indoor Play Areas 32 11.23 Picnic Areas 32 11.23 Art/Music Facilities 31 10.88 Fitness Stations 31 10.88 Remote Control Model Airplane Facility 28 9.82 Skate Park 27 9.47 Adult Baseball Fields 23 8.07 Adult Softball Fields 23 8.07 Equestrian Trails 22 7.72 Frisbee Golf Course 21 7.37 Indoor Recreation Center 20 7.02 Neighborhood Parks 18 6.32 Youth Baseball Fields 17 5.96 Open Space Fields 13 4.56 Indoor Tennis Courts 10 3.51 Adult Football Fields 9 3.16 Youth Softball Fields 8 2.81 Cultural/Art Center 7 2.46 Outdoor Tennis Courts 6 2.11 Adult Soccer Fields 6 2.11 Youth Soccer Fields 6 2.11 Youth Football Fields 6 2.11 Bocce courts 5 1.75 City Employees TABLE 6B --EMPLOYEES In the following section, please read each statement and CIRCLE the response which indicates how much you agree or disagree with each statement regarding College Station Parks N=283 A The percentage of respondents within those with knowledge. e The percentage of overall respondents whom had no knowledge. City Employees Strongly Disagree Disagree Agree Strongly Agree I have no knowledge Total # %A # %A # %A # %A # % I am well-informed about College Station's park facilities and recreation programs 'I'he Dcpaitment should Work more closely with schools to develop parks and offer prograzns ' ..'; t.,,,. . a :i-: College Station parks and recreation facilities are accessible to people with disabilities 9 5 2 3.59 2.50 1.25 35 20 5 13.94 10.00 3.13 174 143 140 69.32 71.50 87.50 36 37 17 14.34 18.50 10.63 26 73 115 9.39 26.74 41.82 277 273 275 "lie 'e Station Parks are weh rnai ; 01 • : - k by". 'k.�t ... ;� 4� � :,,,�1: �5 ' ��\ 1:16 0.00 11 15 4.26 5.77 153 168 59 30' 64.62 96 ' ' 80 21 37. 30.77 15",. 17 5.49' 6.14 273 277 ��...' - - • -- -._ In general, I am satisfied with the facilities and services provided by the Parks & Recreation Department 0 The Department should`work more closely with police and fire afetnparks/neighborhoods departments onsty 1 0.50 18 8.96 135 67.16 51 25.37 74 26.91 275 Overall, the City of College Station has a "park -like" ambiance about it 7 2.83 42 17.00 156 63.16 46 18.62 28 10.18 275 The sirigni dls are'too{{crowded wimmi�i 38 21.35 99 55:62 42 23.60 1 0.56 101' 36.20 279. I am well-informed about plans for parks in my neighborhood Tt is easy forme to �offec feedback o the park departmenf and to obtain answers from.them to any questions The Department should work more closely with neighborhood groups to plan and maintain parks Automobile traffic around parks should be diverted or slowed down I can get to my favorite park facilities on foot or by bicycle 14 9 1 6 22 11.76 5.33 0.51 2.61 10.89 64 24 9 47 57 53.78 14.20 4.62 20.43 28.22 43 117 161 134 105 36.13 69.23 82.56 58.26 51 .98 2 24 27 45 22 1.68 14.20 13.85 19.57 10.89 156 104 82 49 73 56.73 38.10 29.60 17.56 26.55 275 273 277 279 275 A The percentage of respondents within those with knowledge. e The percentage of overall respondents whom had no knowledge. City Employees TABLE 7 --RESIDENTS To help the city prioritize future investment decisions we would like you to please indicate, how important you view each of the following issues in the City of College Station? N=534 Not at all Extremely Important important Total In College Station, 1.0 2.0 3.0 Neutral 5.0 6.0 7.0 6.087.0 Total # % # % # % # % to % # % # °f_q # % Preventing Youth Cringe 5 0.95 7 1.33 8 1.46 43 8.18 60 11.41 140 26.57 240 45.59 379 72.16 526 Helping youth to develop into productive citizens 8 1.52 8 1.52 5 0.95 44 8.37 5 0.95 129 24.52 256 48.67 385 73.19 526 Providing role models fur adolescents 6 1.14 7 1.33 11 2.09 56 10.65 88 16.73 136 25.86 222 42.21 358 68.06 526 Providing youth with positive ways to fill their free time 1 0.19 6 1.14 7 1.33 29 5.52 87 16.57 154 29.33 241 45.90 395 75.24 525 Environmental Stewardship 7 1.39 12 2.22 17 3.17 84 15.92 128 24.35 127 24.16 153 29.11 280 53.27 527 improving air quality 7 1.33 12 2.27 13 2.46 86 16.29 121 22.92 127 24.05 162 30.68 289 54.73 528 Reducing the amount of energy consumed by residents is 10 1.90 16 3.04 21 3.98 98 18.60 146 27.70 103 19.54 133 25.24 236 44.78 527 Protecting environmentally sensitive areas 5 0.95 7 1.33 16 3.04 67 12.71 117 22.20 151 28.65 164 31.12 315 59.77 527 Enhancing Real Estate values 4 0.76 6 1.08 10 1.97 65 12.43 127 24.10 167 31.77 147 27.90 314 59.67 526 Ensuring that parks are easily accessible to residues from their homes is 4 0.76 5 0.95 19 3.62 97 18.48 162 30.86 148 28.19 90 17.14 238 45.33 526 Requiring that developers provide park space for people in their developments is 7 1.33 11 2.09 8 1.52 74 14.07 113 21.48 141 26,81 172 32.70 313 59.51 526 Keeping neighborhood parks well maintained 1 0.19 1 0.19 4 0.76 25 4.75 105 19.96 212 40.30 178 33.84 390 74.14 526 Attracting and Retaining Businesses Convincing businesses to locate in this community Encouraging executives and professionals to live in this community is Improving Community Health Supporting and working with community health organizations Helping people build healthy lifestyles Educating residents on the benefits of healthy activity 17 3.13 13 2.47 22 4.17 87 16.51 121 22.87 146 27.70 122 23.15 268 50.85 527 17 3.23 9 1.71 26 4.93 81 15.37 125 23.72 125 23,72 144 27.32 269 51.04 527 16 3.04 17 3.23 18 3.42 93 17.65 116 22.01 167 31.69 100 18.98 267 50.66 527 11 2.09 8 1.58 18 3.48 73 13.81 138 26.22 147 27.99 131 24.83 278 52.82 526 6 1.14 8 1.52 22 4.17 69 13.09 165 31.31 146 27.70 111 21.06 257 48.77 527 12 2.28 5 0.95 11 2.09 62 11.76 103 19.54 156 29.60 178 33.78 334 63.38 527 15 2.86 12 2.29 22 4.19 87 16.57 146 27.81 140 26.67 103 19,62 243 46.29 525 Attracting and Retaining Retirees 7 1.27 11 2.03 22 4.12 113 21.45 160 30.52 128 24.30 86 16.31 213 40.61 525 Providing amenities in the community that older adults wont 5 0.95 5 0.95 17 3.24 92 17.56 167 31.87 144 27.48 94 17.94 238 45.42 524 Designing programs specifically for older adults is 8 1.52 18 3.43 23 4.38 145 27.62 156 29.71 105 20.00 70 13.33 175 33.33 525 Encouraging Senior Citizens to become involved in the community 7 1.33 9 1.71 25 4.74 101 19.17 158 29.98 134 25.43 93 17.65 227 43.07 527 Providing programs at which retired people can socialize together is 12 2.28 12 2.28 27 5.13 134 25.48 157 29.85 109 20,72 75 14.26 184 34.98 526 Attracting Tourists 21 3.93 14 2.60 25 4.69 83 15.84 127 24.08 129 24.46 128 24.40 257 48.86 526 Getting tourists to spend money in the city 17 3.24 15 2.86 24 4.57 83 15.81 121 23.05 120 22.86 145 27.62 265 50.48 525 Developing attractions that draw people from other cities is 24 4.56 16 3,04 23 4.37 92 17.49 128 24.33 120 22.81 123 23.38 243 46.20 526 Hosting events that bring tourism revenue to local businesses 21 3.98 10 1.90 27 5.12 75 14.23 131 24.86 146 27.70 117 22.20 263 49.91 527 Addressing the Needs of People who are Underemployed 20 3.86 21 3.99 38 7,16 120 22.80 135 25.71 110 20.84 82 15.64 192 36.48 526 Helping adults build skills that can be used in the workplace 22 4.17 13 2.47 36 6.83 106 20.11 140 26.57 118 22.39 92 17.46 210 39.85 527 Offering programs that meet the needs of people who arc unemployed is 21 3.99 30 5.70 41 7.79 126 23.95 125 23.76 95 18.06 88 16.73 183 34.79 526 Supporting and working with community welfare and employment agencies 18 3.42 20 3.80 36 6.84 128 24.33 141 26.81 116 22.05 67 12.74 183 34.79 526 CS Residents 1 TABLE 7A -PARD EMPLOYEES To help the city prioritize future investment decisions we would like you to please indicate, how important you view each of the following Issues in the City of College Station N=58 Preventing Youth Crime 1 Helping youth to develop into productive citizens is 1 Providing role models for adolescents is 1 Providing youth with positive ways to fill their free time is Not at all Extremely Important Important Total 1.0 2 3.0 Neutral 5.0 6.0 7.0 6.0+7.0 Total O % # % # % # % # % # % # Yo # a/o 1 1.15 0 0.00 1 1.72 5 9.20 8 13.22 14 23.56 29 50.57 43 74.57 58 2 3.45 0 0.00 1 1.72 8 13.79 10 17.24 10 17.24 27 46.55 37 63.79 58 0 0.00 0 0.00 1 1.72 7 12.07 6 10.34 17 29.31 26 44.83 43 75.44 57 O 0.00 0 0.00 1 1.72 1 1.72 7 12.07 14 24.14 35 60.34 49 84.48 58 Environmental Stewardship 1 1.15 2 3.45 4 6.32 12 20.69 13 21.84 15 25.29 12 20.11 26 45.93 57 2 Improving air quality is 2 3.45 1 1.72 4 6.90 12 20.69 12 20.69 15 25.86 12 20.69 27 46.55 58 2 Reducing the amount of energy consumed by residents is 0 0.00 3 5.17 5 8.62 13 22.41 15 25.86 13 22.41 8 13.79 21 36.84 57 2 Protecting environmentally sensitive areas is 0 0.00 2 3.45 2 3.45 11 18.97 11 18.97 16 27.59 15 25.86 31 54.39 57 Enhancing Real Estate Values 0 0.57 1 1.72 3 4.60 7 11.49 9 14.94 16 27.01 23 39.08 38 66.47 58 3 Ensuring that parks are easily accessible to residents from their homes is 1 1.72 2 3.45 3 5.17 12 20.69 14 24.14 16 27.59 10 17.24 26 44.83 58 3 Requiring that developers provide park space for people in their developments is 0 0.00 1 1.72 4 6.90 7 12.07 8 13.79 17 29.31 21 36.21 38 65.52 58 3 Keeping neighborhood parks well maintained 0 0.00 0 0.00 1 1.72 1 1.72 4 6.90 14 24.14 37 63.79 51 89.47 57 Attracting and Retaining Businesses 4 Convincing businesses to locate in this community is 4 Encouraging executives and professionals to live in this community is Improving Community Health 5 Supporting and working with community health organizations is 5 Helping people build healthy lifestyles 5 Educating residents on the benefits of healthy activity is Attracting and Retaining Retirees 6 Providing amenities in the community that older adults want is 6 Designing programs specifically for older adults is 6 Encouraging Senior Citizens to become involved in the community is 6 Providing programs at which retired people can socialize together is Attracting Tourists 7 Getting tourists to spend money in the city is 7 Developing attractions that draw people from other cities is 7 Hosting events that bring tourism revenue to local businesses is 0 0.00 2 3.45 2 3.45 9 14.66 12 20.69 17 29.31 17 28.45 34 57.76 58 O 0.00 2 3.45 1 1.72 8 13.79 7 12.07 18 31.03 22 37.93 40 68.97 58 0 0.00 2 3.45 3 5.17 9 15.52 17 29.31 16 27.59 11 18.97 27 46.55 58 O 0.00 1 1.72 2 2.87 12 20.69 15 26.44 15 25.29 13 22.99 28 48.28 58 O 0.00 1 1.72 2 3.45 16 27.59 13 22.41 14 24.14 12 20.69 26 44.83 58 O 0.00 0 0.00 1 1.72 8 13.79 18 31.03 15 25.86 16 27.59 31 53.45 58 O 0.00 2 3.45 2 3.45 12 20.69 15 25.86 15 25.86 12 20.69 27 46.55 58 0 0.57 1 1.15 3 5.75 8 13.22 15 26.44 19 32.76 12 20.11 31 52.87 58 1 1.72 0 0.00 4 6.90 9 15.52 13 22.41 18 31.03 13 22.41 31 53.45 58 0 0.00 2 3.45 3 5.17 4 6.90 17 29.31 20 34.48 12 20.69 32 55.17 58 0 0.00 0 0.00 3 5.17 10 17.24 16 27.59 19 32.76 10 17.24 29 50.00 58 0 0.00 2 3.45 3 5.17 10 17.24 12 20.69 17 29.31 14 24.14 31 53.45 58 0 0.00 0 0.00 0 0.57 4 7.47 10 17.24 15 25.86 28 48.28 43 74.67 58 O 0.00 0 0.00 0 0.00 6 10.34 10 17.24 13 22.41 29 50.00 42 72.41 58 O 0.00 0 0.00 0 0.00 4 6.90 9 15.52 17 29.31 27 46.55 44 77.19 57 0 0.00 0 0.00 1 1.72 3 5.17 11 18.97 15 25.86 28 48.28 43 74.14 58 Addressing the Needs of People who are Underemployed 2 2.87 3 4.60 4 6.32 14 24.14 13 22.41 13 21.84 10 17.24 23 39.08 58 8 Helping adults build skills that can be used in the workplace is 0 0.00 3 5.17 2 3.45 9 15.52 17 29.31 15 25.86 11 18.97 26 44.83 58 8 Offering programs that meet the needs of people who are unemployed is 3 5.17 2 3.45 6 10.34 15 25.86 11 18.97 11 18.97 10 17.24 21 36.21 58 8 Supporting and working with community welfare and employment agencies is 2 3.45 3 5.17 3 5.17 18 31.03 11 18.97 , 12 20.69 9 15.52 21 36.21 58 PARD Employees TABLE 7B-- EMPLOYEES To help the city prioritize future investment decisions we would like you to please indicate, how important you view each of the following issues in the City of College Station? N=283 Not at all Extremely Important important Total 1 2 3 Neutral 5 6 7 6&7 Total # % # % # % # % # % # % # L # % Preventing Youth Crime 2 0.60 2 0.72 7 2.63 31 10.98 37 13.13 67 23.98 134 47.96 201 71.96 279.33 Helping youth to develop into productive citizens is 2 0.71 3 1.07 9 3.21 32 11.43 36 12.86 65 23.21 133 47.50 198 70.71 280 Providing role models for adolescents is 3 1.08 2 0.72 7 2.52 38 13.67 38 13.67 65 23.38 125 44.96 190 68.35 278 Providing youth with positive ways to fill their free time is 0 0.00 1 0.36 6 2.14 22 7.86 36 12.86 71 25.36 144 51.43 215 76.79 280 Environmental Stewardship Improving air quality is Reducing the amount of energy consumed by residents is Protecting environmentally sensitive areas is Enhancing Real Estate Values Ensuring that parks are easily accessible to residents from their homes is Requiring that developers provide park space for people in their developments is Keeping neighborhood parks well maintained Attracting and Retaining Businesses Convincing businesses to locate in this community is Encouraging executives and professionals to live in this community is Improving Community Health Supporting and working with community health organizations is Helping people build healthy lifestyles Educating residents on the benefits of healthy activity is Attracting and Retaining Retirees Providing amenities in the community that older adults want is Designing programs specifically for older adults is Encouraging Senior Citizens to become involved in the community is Providing programs at which retired people can socialize together is Attracting Tourists Getting tourists to spend money in the city is Developing attractions that draw people from other cities is Hosting events that bring tourism revenue to local businesses is Addressing the Needs of People who are Underemployed Helping adults build skills that can be used in the workplace is Offering programs that meet the needs of people who are unemployed is Supporting and working with community welfare and employment agencies is 9 3.10 7 2.62 12 4.17 56 20.15 57 20.26 65 23.12 74 26.58 139 49.70 279.67 10 3.58 9 3.23 14 5.02 56 20.07 53 19.00 58 20.79 79 28.32 137 49.10 279 6 2.15 5 1.79 12 4.30 62 22.22 60 21.51 68 24.37 66 23.66 134 48.03 279 10 3.56 8 2.85 9 3.20 51 18.15 57 20.28 68 24.20 78 27.76 146 51.96 281 4 1.31 4 1.42 13 4.51 47 16.64 59 21.03 70 24.94 85 30.15 155 55.11 280.67 3 1.07 3 1.07 17 6.07 72 25.71 85 30.36 57 20.36 43 15.36 100 35.71 280 8 2.85 7 2.49 14 4.98 43 15.30 51 18.15 63 22.42 95 33.81 158 56.23 281 0 0.00 2 0.71 7 2.49 25 8.90 41 14.59 90 32.03 116 41.28 206 73.31 281 5 1.97 6 2.50 14 5.19 52 18.23 61 19.13 67 22.89 75 30.09 142 50.65 279.5 5 1.80 5 1.80 13 4.68 43 15.47 48 17.27 62 22.30 102 36.69 164 58.99 278 6 2.14 9 3.20 16 5.69 59 21.00 59 21.00 66 23.49 66 23.49 132 46.98 281 4 1.31 4 1.43 14 5.12 19.17 76 27.02 25.95 56 20.00 129 45.95 280 2 0.71 5 1.79 14 5.00 62 22.14 86 30.71 67 23.93 44 15.71 111 39.64 280 4 1.43 0 0.00 8 2.86 44 15.71 56 20.00 87 31.07 81 28.93 168 60.00 280 5 1.79 7 2.50 21 7.50 55 19.64 85 30.36 64 22.86 43 15.36 107 38.21 280 2 0.71 3 0.95 10 3.69 52 18.69 88 31.55 75 26.90 49 17.50 124 44.40 280 2 0.71 1 0.36 9 3.21 40 14.29 87 31.07 85 30.36 56 20.00 141 50.36 280 2 0.71 3 1.07 11 3.93 60 21.43 97 34.64 64 22.86 43 15.36 107 38.21 280 2 0.71 4 1.43 11 3.93 57 20.36 81 28.93 77 27.50 48 17.14 125 44.64 280 3 1.07 6 2.14 13 4.63 49 17.44 100 35.59 74 26.33 36 12.81 110 39.15 281 5 1.78 5 1.90 11 3.80 35 12.60 46 16.29 74 26.40 104 37.22 178 63.61 280.33 4 1.43 4 1.43 9 3.21 37 13.21 41 14.64 74 26.43 111 39.64 185 66.07 280 6 2.14 6 2.14 10 3.57 33 11.79 48 17.14 78 27.86 99 35.36 177 63.21 280 5 1.78 6 2.14 13 4.63 36 12.81 48 17.08 70 24.91 103 36.65 173 61.57 281 17 5.94 13 4.52 20 7.14 68 24.38 70 24.96 51 18.08 42 14.99 93 33.06 280.33 8 2.86 10 3.57 16 5.71 64 22.86 63 22.50 64 22.86 55 19.64 119 42.50 280 22 7.86 17 6.07 26 9.29 72 25.71 60 21.43 43 15.36 40 14.29 83 29.64 280 20 7.12 11 3.91 18 6.41 69 24.56 87 30.96 45 16.01 31 11.03 76 27.05 281 City Employees TABLE 8 -RESIDENTS In this section, we are Interested in your perceptions of the College Station Parks and Recreation Department's current contributions to each of the Items N=534 Very Small Very Large Total The College Station Parks and Recreation Department's Contribution 1.0 2.0 3.0 Neutral 5.0 6.0 7.0 6.0&7.0 Total # % # a/ # % # % # % # % # % # Preventing Youth Crime 16 3.17 24 4.61 43 8.35 193 37.42 131 25.46 64 12.51 44 8.49 108 20.99 515 Providing role models for adolescents 18 3.50 29 5.64 54 10.51 228 44.36 100 19.46 46 8.95 39 7.59 85 16.54 514 Helping youth to develop into productive citizens 17 3.28 15 2.89 41 7.90 196 37.76 142 27.36 64 12.33 44 8.48 108 20.81 519 Providing youth with positive ways to fill their tree time 14 2.74 27 5.28 34 6.65 154 30.14 151 29.55 83 16.24 48 9.39 131 25.64 511 Environmental Stewardship Reducing the amount of energy consumed by residents is Improving air quality Protecting environmentally sensitive areas Enhancing Real Estate Values Ensuring that parks are asily accessible to residents from their home is Requiring that developers provide park space fur people in their developments is Keeping neighborhood parks well maintained Attracting and Retaining Businesses Convincing businesses to locate in this community Encouraging executives and professionals to live in this community is Improving Community Health • Supporting and working with community health organizations Helping people build healthy lifestyles Educating residents on the benefits of healthy activity Attracting and Retaining Retirees Providing amenities in the community that older adults want Designing programs specifically for older adults is Encouraging Senior Citizens to become involved in the comtnmity Providing programs at which retired people an socialize together is Attracting Tourists Getting tourisu to spend money in the city Developing attractions that draw people from other cities is Hosting events that bring tourism revenue to local businesses Addressing the Needs of People who are Underemployed Helping ndulu build skills that an be used in the workplace Offering progratts that meet the needs of people who are =employed is Supporting and working with community welfare and employment agencies 25 4.81 32 6.32 56 10.87 226 44.13 107 20.97 41 8.08 25 4.82 66 12.89 512 31 6.05 40 7.81 83 16.21 214 41.80 92 17.97 37 7.23 15 2.93 52 10.16 512 27 5.25 27 5.25 45 8.75 251 48.83 96 18.68 37 7.20 31 6.03 68 13.23 514 16 3.14 30 5.88 39 7.65 213 41.76 134 26.27 50 9.80 28 5.49 78 15.29 510 11 2.08 26 5.00 39 7.67 147 28.58 134 26.18 102 19.82 55 10.66 156 30.49 513 16 3.12 41 7.99 54 10.53 179 34.89 119 23.20 60 11.70 44 8.58 104 20.27 513 11 2.14 26 5.06 40 7.78 153 29.77 154 29,96 96 18.68 34 6.61 130 25.29 514 5 0.98 10 1.95 24 4.69 108 21.09 130 25.39 149 29.10 86 16.80 235 45.90 512 19 3.61 30 5.75 35 6.73 214 41.62 109 21.25 59 11.40 50 9.65 108 21.05 513 19 3.70 26 5.07 30 5.85 203 39.57 113 22.03 69 13.45 53 10.33 122 23.78 513 18 3.51 33 6.43 39 7.60 224 43.66 105 20.47 48 9.36 46 8.97 94 18.32 513 12 2.41 25 4.81 57 11.06 212 41.43 124 24.25 54 10.46 29 5.59 82 16.05 513 13 2.53 22 4.29 54 10.53 255 49.71 104 20.27 37 7.21 28 5.46 65 12.67 513 13 2.52 29 5.63 52 10.10 174 33.79 136 26.41 77 14.95 34 6.60 111 21.55 515 11 2.16 23 4.51 64 12.55 208 40.78 133 26.08 47 9.22 24 4.71 71 13.92 510 16 3.12 28 5.47 57 11.08 242 47.19 111 21.66 38 7.42 21 4.05 59 11.47 512 18 3.53 33 6.47 65 12.75 241 47.25 97 19.02 36 7.06 20 3.92 56 10.98 510 17 3.32 24 4.69 53 10.35 247 48.24 105 20.61 43 8.40 23 4.49 66 12.89 512 16 3.12 24 4.68 51 9.94 232 45.22 127 24.76 45 8.77 18 3.51 63 12.28 513 13 2.53 31 6.03 58 11.28 247 48.05 115 22.37 28 5.45 22 4.28 50 9.73 514 23 4.48 32 6.23 48 9.34 162 31.58 110 21.40 81 15.69 58 11.28 139 26.97 514 24 4.67 35 6.81 46 8.95 152 29.57 109 21.21 90 17.51 58 11.28 148 28.79 514 24 4.68 35 6.82 55 10.72 173 33.72 104 20.27 66 12.87 56 10.92 122 23.78 513 21 4.08 26 5.05 43 8.35 162 31.46 117 22.72 86 16.70 60 11.65 146 28.35 515 23 4.42 41 8.07 61 11.97 282 51.07 80 15.55 22 4.36 23 4.55 46 8.91 512 30 5.86 42 8.20 60 11.72 281 54.88 54 10.55 24 4.69 21 4.10 45 8.79 512 20 3.90 31 6.04 57 11.11 262 51.07 99 19.30 22 4.29 22 4.29 44 8.58 513 18 3.52 51 9.96 67 13.09 242 47.27 86 16.80 21 4.10 27 5.27 48 9.38 512 CS Residents TABLE 8A --PARD EMPLOYEES In this section, we are Interested In your perceptions of the College Station Parks and Recreation Department's current contributions to each of the Items being N=58 The College Station Parks and Recreation Department's Contribution to: Preventing Youth Crime 1 Helping youth to develop into productive citizens is 1 Providing role models for adolescents is 1 Providing youth with positive ways to fill their free time is Environmental Stewardship 2 Improving air quality is 2 Reducing the amount of energy consumed by residents is 2 Protecting environmentally sensitive areas is Very Large Total Very Small 1.0 2.0 3.0 Neutral 5.0 6.0 7.0 6.0+7.0 Total # % # % # % # % # % # % # % # % 1 1.78 3 4.60 2 4.02 10 16.67 13 21.84 13 22.99 15 25.86 28 50.00 57 2 3.57 3 5.17 1 1.72 8 13.79 12 20.69 14 24.14 16 27.59 30 53.57 56 1 1.75 3 5.17 2 3.45 16 27.59 12 20.69 10 17.24 13 22.41 23 40.35 57 O 0.00 2 3.45 4 6.90 5 8.62 14 24.14 16 27.59 16 27.59 32 56.14 57 4 7.70 4 6.32 4 6.90 16 27.59 15 25.29 8 13.22 6 9.77 13 23.81 56 3 5.56 5 8.62 3 5.17 16 27.59 11 18.97 9 15.52 7 12.07 16 29.63 54 7 12.28 4 6.90 5 8.62 17 29.31 16 27.59 4 6.90 4 6.90 8 14.04 57 3 5.26 2 3.45 4 6.90 15 25.86 17 29.31 10 17.24 6 10.34 16 28.07 57 Enhancing Real Estate Values 0 0.00 3 4.60 2 3.45 8 13.79 11 18.97 16 27.59 16 27.59 32 57.49 56 3 Ensuring that parks are easily accessible to residents from their homes is 0 0.00 3 5.17 1 1.72 12 20.69 16 27.59 15 25.86 8 13.79 23 41.82 55 3 Requiring that developers provide park space for people in their developments is 0 0.00 5 8.62 2 3.45 6 10.34 12 20.69 16 27.59 16 27.59 32 56.14 57 3 Keeping neighborhood parks well maintained 0 0.00 0 0.00 3 5.17 6 10.34 5 8.62 17 29.31 24 41.38 41 74.55 55 Attracting and Retaining Businesses 4 Convincing businesses to locate in this community is 4 Encouraging executives and professionals to live in this community is Improving Community Health 5 Supporting and working with community health organizations is 5 Helping people build healthy lifestyles 5 Educating residents on the benefits of healthy activity is Attracting and Retaining Retirees 6 Providing amenities in the community that older adults want is 6 Designing programs specifically fbr older adults is 6 Encouraging Senior Citizens to become involved in the community is 6 Providing programs at which retired people can socialize together is Attracting Tourists 7 Getting tourists to spend money in the city is 7 Developing attractions that draw people from other cities is 7 Hosting events that bring tourism revenue to local businesses is 2 3.54 3 4.31 2 3.45 9 14.66 18 31.03 15 25.86 9 14.66 24 41.59 57 2 3.51 1 1.72 2 3.45 7 12.07 18 31.03 14 24.14 13 22.41 27 47.37 57 2 3.57 4 6.90 2 3.45 10 17.24 18 31.03 16 27.59 4 6.90 20 35.71 56 1 1.17 3 5.17 5 8.62 14 23.56 14 24.71 12 21.26 7 12.64 20 34.71 57 O 0.00 3 5.17 5 8.62 20 34.48 11 18.97 12 20.69 5 8.62 17 30.36 56 O 0.00 2 3.45 5 8.62 8 13.79 17 29.31 16 27.59 9 15.52 25 43.86 57 2 3.51 4 6.90 5 8.62 13 22.41 15 25.86 9 15.52 8 13.79 17 29.82 57 0 0.58 3 4.60 7 12.07 10 17.24 21 35.63 9 16.09 7 12.07 16 28.65 57 1 1.75 4 6.90 5 8.62 13 22.41 20 34.48 7 12.07 7 12.07 14 24.56 57 0 0.00 2 3.45 9 15.52 10 17.24 18 31.03 11 18.97 7 12.07 18 31.58 57 0 0.00 2 3.45 7 12.07 7 12.07 24 41.38 10 17.24 7 12.07 17 29.82 57 2 3.51 3 5.17 5 8,62 9 15.52 23 39.66 7 12.07 8 13.79 15 26.32 57 1 2.34 2 1.72 3 5.17 7 12.07 14 23.56 17 28.74 14 24.71 31 54.39 67 1 1.75 0.00 5 8.62 5 8.62 15 25.86 16 27.59 15 25,86 31 54.39 57 1 1.75 3 5.17 3 5.17 10 17.24 14 24.14 17 29.31 9 15.52 26 45.61 57 2 3.51 0 0.00 1 1.72 6 10.34 12 20.69 17 29.31 19 32.76 36 63.16 57 Addressing the Needs of People who are Underemployed 3 5.88 7 12.07 8 13.22 16 27.01 12 21.26 5 9.20 5 9.20 11 18.82 57 8 Helping adults build skills that can be used in the workplace is 2 3.51 6 10.34 5 8.62 17 29.31 17 29.31 3 5.17 7 12.07 10 17.54 57 8 Offering programs that meet the needs of people who are unemployed is 5 8.77 7 12.07 12 20.69 13 22.41 9 15.52 8 13.79 3 5.17 11 19.30 57 8 Supporting and working with community welfare and employment agencies is 3 5.36 8 13.79 6 10.34 17 29.31 11 18.97 5 8.62 6 10.34 11 19.64 56 PARD Employees 1 TABLE 8B --EMPLOYEES In this section, we are interested in your perceptions of the College Station Parks and Recreation Department's current contributions to each of the items being N=283 Preventing Youth Crime Helping youth to develop into productive citizens is Providing role models for adolescents is Providing youth with positive ways to till their free time is Very Small 1 2 3 Neutral 5 # % # % # s # % # 8 2.91 9 3.27 19.7 7.16 78.7 28.60 27.89 8 2.89 8 2.89 16 5.78 86 31.05 72 25.99 9 3.28 11 4.01 24 8.76 94 34.31 66 24.09 7 2.55 8 2.92 19 6.93 56 20.44 92 33.58 Environmental Stewardship 13 4.72 14.7 5.33 26.7 9.71 106 38.54 64 23.40 Improving air quality is 16 5.82 15 5.45 19 6.91 115 41.82 64 23.27 Reducing the amount of energy consumed by residents is 20 7.25 23 8.33 41 14.86 110 39.86 47 17.03 Protecting environmentally sensitive areas is 3 1.11 6 2.21 20 7.38 92 33.95 81 29.89 Enhancing Real Estate Values Ensuring that parks arc easily accessible to residents from their homes is Requiring that developers provide park space for people in their developments is Keeping neighborhood parks well maintained Attracting and Retaining Businesses Convincing businesses to locate in this community is Encouraging executives and professionals to live in this community is Improving Community Health Supporting and working with community health organizations is Helping people build healthy lifestyles Educating residents on the benefits of healthy activity is Attracting and Retaining Retirees Providing amenities in the community that older adults want is Designing programs specifically for older adults is Encouraging Senior Citizens to become involved in the community is Providing programs at which retired people can socialize together is Attracting Tourists Getting tourists to spend money in the city is Developing attractions that draw people from other cities is Hosting events that bring tourism revenue to local businesses is Addressing the Needs of People who are Underemployed Helping adults build skills that can be used in the workplace is Offering programs that meet the needs of people who are unemployed is Supporting and working with community welfare and employment agencies is 4.67 1,70 5.67 2.06 18.3 6.67 65.3 23.79 73 26.69 4 1.45 7 2.54 25 9.06 74 26.81 85 30.80 7 2.56 5 1.83 21 7.69 75 27.47 71 26.01 3 1.09 5 1.82 9 3.27 47 17.09 64 23.27 7.33 2.66 12.4 4.52 22.9 8.31 105 38.11 26.79 6 2.17 12 4.33 21 7.58 99 35.74 78 28.16 12 4.36 14 5.09 24 8.73 115 41.82 59 21.45 4 1.46 11.3 4.13 23.7 8.63 101 36.79 84 30.76 4 1.45 16 5.80 22 7.97 122 44.20 70 25.36 3 1.10 8 2.93 25 9.16 74 27.11 98 35.90 5 1.82 10 3.65 24 8.76 107 39.05 85 31.02 5.33 1.94 13.7 4.96 26.7 9.70 96 34.91 86 31.16 5 1.81 16 5.80 26 9.42 97 35.14 84 30.43 8 2.90 15 5.43 29 10.51 94 34.06 81 29.35 3 1.10 10 3.66 25 9.16 97 35.53 92 33.70 2 0.73 19 6.91 21 7.64 111 40.36 72 26.18 6.33 2.30 10 3.64 20.7 7.51 69.3 25.18 69 25.07 6 2.17 8 2.89 19 6.86 73 26.35 63 22.74 8 2.92 13 4.74 26 9.49 64 23.36 86 31.39 5 1.82 9 3.27 17 6.18 71 25.82 58 21.09 13.7 4.97 16.7 6.07 39.7 14.44 122 44.54 53 19.30 9 3.28 12 4.38 41 14.96 117 42.70 57 20.80 18 6.55 22 8.00 37 13.45 130 47.27 45 16.36 14 5.09 16 5.82 41 14.91 120 43.64 57 20.73 Very Large Total 6 7 6&7 Total # % g % 1# % 45 16.36 38 13.82 83 30.18 275 47 16.97 40 14.44 87 31.41 277 41 14.96 29 10.58 70 25.55 274 47 17.15 45 16.42 92 33.58 274 27 9.75 23.3 8.54 50 18.25 274 29 10.55 17 6.18 46 16.73 275 17 6.16 18 6.52 35 12.68 276 34 12.55 35 12.92 69 25.46 271 65 23.54 42.7 15.54 107 39.08 274.67 56 20.29 25 9.06 81 29.35 276 58 21.25 36 13.19 94 34.43 273 80 29.09 67 24.36 147 53.45 275 32 11.70 21.8 7.90 54 19.60 275.44 31 11.19 30 10.83 61 22.02 277 33 12.00 18 6.55 51 18.55 275 33 11.92 17.3 6.32 50 18.23 274.33 29 10.51 13 4.71 42 15.22 276 44 16.12 21 7.69 65 23.81 273 25 9.12 18 6.57 43 15.69 274 30 11.03 17.3 6.30 48 17.33 275 31 11.23 17 6.16 48 17.39 276 32 11.59 17 6.16 49 17.75 276 28 10.26 18 6.59 46 16.85 273 34 12.36 16 5.82 50 18.18 275 55 19.97 45 16.33 100 36.32 275.33 58 20.94 50 18.05 108 38.99 277 44 16.06 33 12.04 77 28.10 274 63 22.91 52 18.91 115 41.82 275 18 6.68 11 4.01 29 10.68 274.67 26 9.49 12 4.38 38 13.87 274 13 4.73 10 3.64 23 8.36 275 16 5.82 11 4.00 27 9.82 275 City Employees PERCEIVED EXTENT OF COLLABORATION Table 9 reveals the extent to which staff in other departments perceive they collaborate with the PARD. The scoring system assigned 1, 2, 3 or 4 points to few times a year, about once a month, about once a week and almost daily, respectively. The range of services in which there is perceived collaboration is remarkable, although for the most part it is relatively infrequent. The data illustrate the extent to which the PARD reaches out to other departments for assistance, and the importance of PARD staff integrating their efforts with others across departmental boundaries. The three areas in which most collaboration occurred were city rights of way, neighborhood/community parks, and visual quality. TABLE 9B --EMPLOYEES How often do you as a city employee or your department work with or on the following College Station Park facilities and programs? N=283 City Employees Not at all # % Few times a year # % Once Month # % About Once a Week # % Almost Daily # `)/0 Total Score City Right of Ways 118 44.36 72 27.07 23 8.65 15 5.64 48 18.05 266 355 0111.1Yis60C4141:Lci.,:'::: '...;:;.1.','::-.."::...--.,.. ' :147 54.04 58 :AM, 911110K1110 fill,...091:..al7fFIRVE VelY:t : i?1705i Greenways '''--7"--• - -- 157 56.68 68 24.55 20 7.22 12 4.33 20 7.22 277 224 Att9Mige7:4004,41i-- - ' ' ' - 7 ' --Neighborhood/Community Parks 167 60.73 89 32.25 65 23 : f3.'543.13SDIE 115 41.67 31 11.23 ..0:64Mag 24 8.70 ,I 447: .PPIETROITINE 17 .- 6.16 -276 - 317 LIWgilfiFal*r , . .. , .:. . 128 46.21 95 34.36.:-. , 21„... Walking Trails/ Bike Paths 153 55 04 89 32.01 11 3.96 17 6.12 8 2.88 278 194 '.'47....„..grait.... MaraiNigfialiaglitAll 6461iiii 0 4: 51 87 31.41 24 8.86 9 325 SATIZIPM ANN vvolt Pen Amphitheatre 109 39.21 131 47.12 21 7.55 12 4.32 5 1.80 278 .bilitC.;.. 229 0...215:0716001:6:: t5iiifftif77' . 00):1;;,;: g'1 6 60 2114 8 2.90 3 1.09 ' .:.''MWID:gla 07 -Rt Recreation Center 142 51.08 90 32.37 17 6.12 26 9.35 4 1.44 278 218 06tdbor-Basketbail COi.iiltS.' ' '. ' 198 ' 71.27 58 21.09 7 2.55 10 3.64 Fitness Programs 209 75.45 57 20.58 5 1.81 2 0.72 4 1.44 277 89 Swir'r1714116* . - . 129 46.40 111 :11.139.=.93 19 6.83 16 5.76 3 1 Ponds/Lakes 189 68.23 67 24.19 12 4.33 6 2.17 3 1.08 277 121 Festivals/Events 115 41.52 129 46.57 20 7.22 11 3.97 2 . 0.72 •-.0:y: 210.: Playgrounds 183 66.30 68 24.64 14 5.07 9 3.26 2 0.72 276 131 KidsKlub 187 671g/, 65 238 . 19 6.83 1g5:,.18,0. ' 2 0.72 278 126. Teen Activities 202 73.19 58 21.01 11 3.99 3 1.09 2 0.72 276 97 plcriic,Tables/Pavilions 175 63.18 82. 29.60 12 - 4.33 7 2.53. 1 .048: 277 ' 131 EXIT teen 6enier tr-iidi-PRigraffiS' e. • ,,,I 188 68.36 189 6823 60 21.82 64 23.10 17 6.18 18 6.50 9 3.27 5 1.81 1 0.36 1 .04q:. 275 277 125 . 119 Xtra Education 205 73.74 55 19.78 13 4.68 4 1.44 1 0.36 278 97 Tennis Courts 210 -too 52 18.84 10 3.62 3 1.09 1 0.36 276 85 Volleyball Courts 222 80.14 41 14.80 7 2.53 6 2.17 1 0.36 277 77 City Employees Appendix D-- Open Ended Responses Citizen Surveys Employee Surveys Residents' Open-ended Responses Trails and Greenways • Walking trail is nice • Develop hike, bike, jogging trails interconnected throughout the city, also bike lanes in traffic areas, buy parkland outside city that could be annexed in a few years • Do the bike trail linking neighborhoods on the EAST side of hwy 6. • Need to develop a greenways program that has "protected" lands. Not allowed to be changed to a developed road or city hall. • We need safe bike trails all over CS so people can bike to school for their own health, environment, and for economic reasons. • I feel the community has been well planned with parks within walking distance for many people and nice public pools. It would be nice to have more safe bike paths (off roadways). • Nice job with Central Park & with advertising community classes & summer activities for youth. I would really like to see longer (5-10mi) jogging trails w/ gravel or soft surface, not concrete. Thank you. • Many states and communities have tremendous bike trails (50-100 mi) utilizing the rails to trails program. College Station and Bryan are sorely lacking safe bike trails off the traveled roads. I believe this is one area that is extremely healthy and would enhance the community. • A hiking trail/state park would be a great addition to this community. • Greenways should be protected and not called greenways unless they are protected and can not be used for other building sites. (i.e. not be able to turn a so called "greenway" into the new city hall property.) • There are way too few sidewalks & the street layout in my new neighborhood is an impediment to my using the few businesses within walking distance. The layout of the town in general is unfortunate. • Put in bike lanes and more trees on all major streets. Texas Ave can be improved. • I would like to see more emphasis on running/biking trails and less on softball fields used only by those outside the community. • Improve bike trails for cyclists. • The city needs to be completely accessible to pedestrians. This means sidewalks everywhere and it means not allowing cars to be parked on the few existing sidewalks even if the sidewalk crosses a driveway. Children, the elderly, parents with strollers, wheelchairs, runner, walkers --we all should have access to safe sidewalks in our neighborhoods and in the community. That contributes to building community, encouraging healthy lifestyle, and improved air quality through less car use! • Bike lanes should be used only on roads where they are needed and used. • More access for bikes and areas in the parks where dogs could be off leash. • Please get us some decent bike & walking paths! Please stop attracting more business & people to town if you're doing nothing to improve traffic, streets, etc. This city is growing too quickly. • Need more walking & jogging tracks that are safe to be at & are made of high quality. • Need more long trails for hiking/biking/jogging. • We need more bike lanes and/or trails. • Provide walking paths, bike paths, trees along (People don't go to park everyday. City needs to be a big park) the city streets. • I would like to have longer bike trails/hiking trails. • You are missing one vital thing -a long bike trail that you can go 10-20 miles on. It's scary to bike in this town and for those of us who don't want a mountain bike trail -the streets are our only choice. • Disappointed by the lack of sidewalk. Disappointed by the lack of safe crosswalks. • More would be welcome also. Residents' Open-ended Responses Teens and Youth Programs • Teens over 14 needs more options for city sponsored activities. • I think we need more programs for 15-17 yrs old, I don't see anything, unless I'm missing out on it. • Youth are extremely important. Developing programs & spending tax dollars on our "next generation" will bring the greatest return in the long run. Let's build future citizens that will positively impact the world! • I would like programs for "all" children to be able to participate in. I feel the turn out of all sports camps, etc. would be awesome (turnout) if every young adult could join. • We need activities for pre -k to 7 kids scheduled activities -nature walks, swimming lessons, reading groups, outside painting contests, art contests, summer reading programs -out of doors. • Teen over 14 needs more options for city sponsored activities. • The challenger programs are outstanding! Including the little league boys baseball teams as helpers was a wonderful experience for my 11 year old, in fact my 9 year old daughter wanted to help too! Maybe the softball girls could be included too. • Woodland Hills needs a park for the children! • The Exit is not as well supervised as it should be. I have talked to several mothers of friends of my granddaughters who are somewhat concerned about this also. They need more help, particularly at night -not an easy job for anyone. The staff is not to blame. Somewhat young and inexperienced -appeared to be college students. • We recently moved back to CS. We went to A&M 10+ years ago. I have been very impressed w/ the # of parks in CS but disappointed by the size of playgrounds. They are all easy to get to, but once you get there, young children bore easily. I would love to see more elements added or at least one playground that is very large. Constraints and Accessibility • If new parks are added take care to keep tree canopies high, make certain parks are surrounded by residences, or in commercial areas where many people locate themselves, don't make another Hensel Park • facilities are too expensive -hard for college students and young, working adults to afford • I am a single mother of 5 and very low income. I have 4 boys, 2 are at the age to play sports. I think there should be programs to help the less fortunate children enjoy and play sports as well. Every one who lives here is not rich nor wealthy. • Swimming pools are too expensive. Use of athletic facilities-i.e.-rentals of youth fields is just outrageous. We drive to nearby cities to practice to avoid field rentals. • Not enough if any parking at neighborhood parks forces parking on neighborhood streets, in front of houses, blocking driveways and emergency vehicles. All parks should have a designated parking area. Especially neighborhood parks. Team or league sports should not be scheduled or allowed at neighborhood parks at all. • Provide enough spaces for parking cars around parks. It is so bad on St. Paul street where it is dangerous. How cars park in two lines in front of the Thomas Park swimming pool -it is very inconvenient for neighbors. • I think that retired city employees should receive a lifetime pool pass for themselves and their wife or spouse. This would improve their health and encourage physical activities. Also use of the indoor pool and other pools during designated times when they do not have to fight for spool space with younger people who push them aside! This would make the City of College Station a more quality employer. • There are no rides for children that are handicapped to ride on. • There needs to be more cheap entertainment for families to do. • I would like to see more interaction between different ethnicities especially in youth sports leagues. Maybe local businesses or associations could sponsor kids who may not be able to afford the registration fee. Residents' Open-ended Responses Constraints and Accessibility Cont. • We do not use any P&R facilities and plan to move to a county with an affordable tax structure. The cost of living is too expensive for retired citizens. All service, utility, and overall expenses are more than most retirees can reasonably maintain. Our friends (most of them have moved) or like us -planning to move to lower cost of living states. • I do not feel that the residents of College Station should be fined for using the fields at Central Park. • Decisions on where to place parks do no always seem fair/impartial. • Austin's parks are a wonderful example for us to follow. Very accessible to many neighborhoods across the capitol city. • Overall -good quality. If there is any way to get usage fees and entry fees to athletic programs (adult sb-flag fb) lowered I feel more teams would get involved. High fees do not allow some individuals to participate due to financial concerns. • Need to concentrate on neighborhood parks and open spaces. Have developers provide parks within walking distance for all residents. For example, Pebble Creek has one (less than adequate) park for the entire development -not acceptable. • I think it is a very good place for families with children. There does need to be more for the youth to do at either low or no cost. • C.S. needs to host softball tournaments for all organizations, not just scv asa. • We need more parks in subdivisions. Example: Pebble Creek has more than 1000 homes yet almost no real park space for non -club members and their families. • The prices at the ice rink are too high for us to enjoy it often. Maintenance and Upkeep • Spray city for mosquitoes! The city needs to keep gullies mowed. • Fix docks at Gabbard Park! It has needed repairs for over a year. Plant Cyrus like you cut down, remove rule on hitting golf balls in the park or stop hitting base balls. • Keep any kind of animal droppings out of the park. • Yes, please make a complete rubber track at Thomas Park -the only good walking track (but very in need of repair) in CS. Please kill all poison ivy at Wolf Pen & all other city areas. Please, please repair track at Thomas Park! • I recommend providing trash cans on the Frisbee golf course (Le. Lemontree Park). I believe this would cut down on the amount of litter in the area. Also, I would be interested in participating in a committee involved in Parks & Recreation. • The park that I spend the most time at is Brothers Pond Park. There needs to be a better place for people to park, or people should not be allowed to park on Rio Grande Blvd. It's a problem for bikers & drivers alike. Also, the wooded area needs more lights. The park does not close until 11 pm, so those who want to run/walk through the woods have to do so in darkness. • Fire ant control around play areas in parks needs to be improved. Fire ants regularly make mounds/trails near play structures at Brother Pond Park & many other parks visited! • Work on Central Park's look and feel...it seems a little run down the last time I was there. • Lighting is important! • Some recent efforts to improve existing parks (lighting and playgrounds) were done by workers who drove trucks over playing fields on wet ground, leaving deep tracks in which ankles get sprained. Need to "think" carefully about projects so don't mess up what is already there. Overall, we have some excellent facilities, and many good ones. • I would like to see more of C.S. parks & playgrounds have restroom facilities and shade coverings and working water fountains. • Although the parks dept makes an effort to plant landscaping around the pools, the plants, grass and shrubs are barely watered and horrible in appearance within a few weeks. • I enjoy running at Wolf Pen Amphitheatre, but I also find that on most days the water fountains aren't on. It being summer and an increase in temperature, I feel it's necessary for them to be working. Residents' Open-ended Responses Maintenance and Upkeep Continued • Need improved maintenance in Lick Creek Park. Mowing along trails. Repair low spots in nature trails that stand in water too long after rains. • Yes, can you add more water fountains and soda machines around? • Woodcreek Park has always been very poorly maintained since I moved to the neighborhood in 1999. It has such wonderful possibilities if someone would take the time. The switch to high-power halogens in the park intrudes in our living room. • More & nicer water fountains needed to ensure proper hydration to citizens at parks. • Having properly maintained water/drinking fountains would be a good addition to all current and forthcoming parks. • To Whom It May Concern: There really needs to be a restroom facility at Edelweiss Park on Victoria St. in College Station. There needs to be adequate working restrooms at every park, large or small. • The water fountains need to work at the trails surrounding Wolf Pen Amphitheatre. They are serving no purpose! • Why hasn't Bee Creek Park next to Adamson pool had a face lift. All the other parks had one. • Q3: except make sure that these are well-planned with consideration of possible effects of erosion, increased water flow, contamination. Don't want anymore fiascos like the one associated with Wolf Pen Creek water (pond?) project. • College Station Conference Center needs to be replaced soon or fixed up. The building is in really bad shape. • Please maintain Carter Park on Glenhaven; it's a sad little place. • Regarding trees along city streets -In some places, it's already hard to see. • 3) The CS cemetery needs better grounds care. • I was disappointed to see that Thomas Park trail was recently paved with concrete. • I think that lighting in parks is especially important. The lighting addition at the park behind Rock Prairie school has been a real asset. • My spouse believes too much time is spent manicuring the baseball fields and should not be a round the year job. • Central Park needs to be cleaned up. • I would like to see Carter Park developed and/or maintained at a higher level. • It would be great if fire ants could be eliminated or frequently controlled in parks. Aquatics • It would be nice if there were more swimming classes available after 5 for children; A pool in newly developed areas and a park. Thank you. • I like the swings and the pools are quite crowded and old. Adamson Lagoon is the only one with a good slide. • Please put a diaper changing table at Southwood Pool. A family pool but I have to change my slippery toddler on a picnic table (yum) or on a bench. Have left two surveys with pool management but never a reply. Otherwise you guys do a good job! • I think a water park such as Six Flags, Schlitterbahn, or Splash Town would be a great income for the city of College Station because it will make the city grow even more than it already is. • I'd like to see more pools. Thank you. Bye. Preferably in neighborhoods. • Cut down on time swimming clubs exclusively reserve the pools. It is ok to limit activity to say "laps" but let anyone who shows up participate. • Pools are overcrowded -need pools in South College Station. • And the way the pools are run and access to pool times is terrible. Why don't the pools have greater access during the year when you can start enjoying it in early spring and into early fall. And the costs are ridiculous. • We need places for adults to swim laps before work. • Adamson Lagoon needs a better toddler swimming area. l Residents' Open-ended Responses Dog Park • Dog Parks are very important to keep the dogs and citizens safe by providing a designated area that is enclosed where dogs are free to run without the risk of running out to the street. • A dog park would be very nice. I realize that we have research park but a fenced in area to protect the dogs from running into the street would be even better. • A fenced dog park would be great. • Q4: Leash law need to be enforced in this city. Need dog park because there are too many loose dogs in the parks, esp. Research Park. Dogs not on leash getting into fights, etc. We have had numerous problems when our dogs were on leashes and other loose dogs ran up. • We have just moved from the DC area. Our daily activities there included going to the dog park. Great opportunity for adult & pet socializing. We very much miss that here in College Station. • Also, organize places just for animal (like dogs) so people can have fun without worried about dogs (doo-doo). Facilities • Consideration for a BCS golf course. • Yes, I would like to see outside handball courts built and would gladly volunteer to teach kids and all young adults to play their perfect game of one wall and three wall handball. • You should put a bocce court at Hensel Park soon! • A park should be built on the other side of Chesapeake (btwn Graham and Barron Rd) with a walking/bike path. • In the future I would like to see CS build a facility that would have a petting zoo, train ride and aquarium all in one. • It would be very nice if the city can build a place like a small zoo or a water (splashtown) center. • I would like to see merry go rounds and more playgrounds with swings. • Build more tennis courts. • We travel to cities just for their public attractions like zoos, gardens, etc -a zoo would be superb! Open Play Spaces • More baseball fields and make the soccer fields open more for unscheduled practice. Thanks! • We need free, non -booking places to play football, soccer, etc. We also need places to run. Not made of concrete. But made of runner friendly material such as Town Lake in Austin as a perfect example. People I know and myself hate running in BCS because it lacks a place such as Town Lake. Family Activities • There needs to be many more things for young adult parents to do with younger children. • The parks are nice but there is not enough to do for families particularly during the hot months when you can't be enjoying outside activities. Athletics • Sports leagues should store their own equipment unless they have to pay the city. Residents' Open-ended Responses Health Concerns • Making indoor pool facilities available to our local citizens would be beneficial to those who are concerned with intense sun exposure to themselves & their children. • An indoor, air conditioned park like the one at the mall (only bigger) would be great for the summer. It gets so hot and I baby-sit so I am always trying to think of things to do with the kids but outdoor parks are way too hot. • Making the parks more accessible to children & promoting a healthy lifestyle is important in the fight against childhood obesity & the onset of Type 2 diabetes becoming more common in children. • Indoor stuff is important to us -I'm allergic to the sun and we don't benefit a whole lot from outdoor stuff. • Bring together business owners (e.g. restaurant owners) to work with community members to provide healthy food alternatives. Beautification/ Restorative Environments • Entirely too much emphasis on our parks being sports parks for organized team activity. Parks should provide a peaceful haven for those who want to enjoy natural surroundings - need more groves of trees, trails, and serenity than we need more blaring lights and shouting fans! Thanks for asking! • I think you do a great job of providing parks for residents. But there is a great increase in traffic & crowding over the 4 years I have lived here -especially Wolf Pen Creek -the new shopping is RUINING the gorgeous park! • I really enjoy Lick Creek Park and think it would be great to have other larger spaces similar to it. It's nice to go somewhere where you can get away from everything and enjoy nature without encountering anyone! Thanks! • The Park & Recreation Services should play a role in: 1) providing and/or protecting green space in areas adjacent to residential neighborhoods and 2) providing education/encouragement regarding water conservation. • First take care of the parks you have before creating new ones. Secondly, beautify and maintain all greenbelts and parks. Thirdly, identify what the needs are, matched with what they want (This survey!). Thanks. • A beautiful garden with a lot of flowering plants can improve the appearance of the park. Thanks. • 1 am a firm believer in having green spaces in cities for its citizens. They are important in providing a place to go and relax, de -stress, and meditate, also to escape from the worries & troubles of the world & their life. Studies have proven this to be true. • I would love to see more parks like Lick Creek in College Station and Lake Bryan. I much prefer the nature trails to paved city parks. Security and Safety. • More security in parks. People should feel safe to take their kids to the park. They shouldn't have to deal with some of the things that happen because there isn't good security. • There should be better police security, dog parks, widescreen/projected TV with news or something, fountains, indoor pools in local parks. • Lincoln Park on Eleanor and Montclair should be better policed for loud music and drug use/sale. On several occasions, I could smell marijuana a block away. • Some type of supervision should be provided in the residential areas -even for short periods of time. Ex: 8am-12pm or 1 pm-4pm X-tra Education • I would like to see Xtra Education classes offered during summer. • X-tra Education is a good program -need some fitness for older adults and on weekends. Residents' Open-ended Responses Compliments • Wolf Pen Creek is beautiful! Keep up the good work! • Do good work! • I am very pleased with the services offered by P&R. All areas are well kept and an asset to our city. • Compared to other cities CSPR ranks highest in state. But still lots of room for improvement. Be the best and set the example for other cities to follow. • I think overall the P&R services do a credible job with available resources. • Everything seems to be going great with the parks and rec program, plan on the growth of the area at an early stage! • You do a great job! • Keep up the good work. • Great Job! • We (CS) used to be known for the # of parks/citizen. I don't think we are high on the list anymore. Parks add to the quality of life -Executives come here for intangibles. • Thanks! • Overall, the College Station Parks and Recreation Facilities do a good job. Keep it on! • Overall, I feel parks & rec do a good job with their responsibility. • Good job. The parks here rule! • Keep up the good work. • I love the parks in this town, I think they are a benefit to the community. • I've always thought that Steve Beachy provides excellent leadership for the Parks and Recreation program in College Station. • Great Job! • Very satisfied with CS Park & Recreation Dept. Steve Beachy does a great job. • You do a great job. • We think the parks are great & getting better every day. • Keep up the good work. • We love College Station -it feels like "community" -safe and friendly. • I believe the College Station Parks & Recreation Service does an outstanding job in this community. • I think the Parks & Recreation services in College Station does a good job! • Keep up the good work! So far so good, eh? • I love the Lemontree Park trails -they are very peaceful and keep me healthy! • Thanks for asking for input. I hope you use it to improve our city! • C.S. Parks & Rec should be commended on the good job it has done. Very impressed on the everyday maintenance of the baseball/softball fields. • You are doing a super job with limited resources. • Great P&R department! Love the staff -great things for this community. Really enjoy it when they are involved with the university on community wide events. I apologize if this is sent so late! I have been in VT for the past month. • You need more staff! You lose too many great parks & recreation professionals to other cities. Steve Beachy needs to hire more Aggies! • The CS Park & Rec Services are a big part of what makes living in the area pleasant. Thanks! • Thanks. • For the most part I think you do a good job. There is always room for improvement & this survey may help. Thanks for asking. • 1 am satisfied and appreciate the services from the department. Residents' Open-ended Responses Compliments Continued • I am a life-long swimmer and for many years swam with a masters swim group at both CS and Bryan aquatic facilities (year round). Now I am privileged to have a membership at the TAMU Rec Center -so I use CS facilities for general fitness to a minimal degree. 1 am, and have been, extremely pleased with the quality of parks, programs provided by the City of College Station. • College Station is a great place to raise a family. • Good job. • Happy with the amount of vegetation. • I think CS Parks are one of our finest attributes. Keep up the level of quality you're at and that would be great -raise that quality level and it will be superb! Thanks! • Both our children have been long-time participants in city swim/pool activities. This has provided them with many benefits. • Beautiful parks & great availability! Lots of parks. Good job! Thanks. • But I do love this area and have often commented on all the parks. • I live in Nantucket; my recreational needs are met by that environment. It would be interesting to plot the responses using GIS. • I just moved to CS two months ago so my input would not be of any consequence. Other • More cowbells! • Not at this time. • We enjoy the strong sports programs but would like to see more musical programs offered. • Provide transportation to Houston & Austin. Reduce the cost of airfare to big cities. It's the big problem for the city. People won't come if it costs them a lot. • P.S. The City of CS would have been lucky to get a person of the quality/calibre of Andy Gillres. How unfortunate that the wasn't selected. • Programs that meet the needs of the unemployed is not parks & rec's responsibility. Communication • I really am not aware of what contributions the CS Parks & Rec Dept is doing. I would like to receive announcements in the mail about improvements to the community & new facilities that open up. Or maybe post it on your website. • I would like to have information about all available bike and mountain trails all around town. • I was studying RPTS at A&M. I enjoy parks, park programs and what goes into running a park department. However, I hear very little about CSPR and your programs. I'm interested to know more but feel that I am ill informed. I use parks and trails often. Why not put brochures in parks and along trails advertising your services. Use a container like realtors use. You may find you get better participation and more support. • I would like to be better informed about programs offered for youth through College Station Parks and Rec Department. . • There needs to be a better way to reach parents of pre-school age children of activities available to kids. There have been times this past year my child wanted to participate, but we missed sign-up deadline because we were unaware sign-up was going on. • Also, am impressed with teen programs in area but they need more publicity. • And if possible, I like to see newsletter via email about city's activities. • Need increased information circulating about services & parks besides in the CSU & newspaper. Residents' Open-ended Responses Knowledge/Use • Phillip Goode died in 1990. I don't feel qualified to answer these questions. Please pass it on to another person. • I'm completely unqualified to participate in this survey. Am unable to visit parks. Thank you. • Col Floyd Lambert would have loved to serve on this as he loved CS. He is deceased. I'm Mrs. Margaret Lambert and love CS but I'm 87 years old and severely blind as I could not help. Thanks. • I called (Pam) to tell you I didn't want to be a delinquent citizen, but I'm 77 and I don't use the parks now. In the 60's & 70's we lived at parks with our kids -but thanks for running the survey. • I cannot answer these questions honestly at this time, due to the fact that 1 just recently moved to College Station and have not had the time to visit any public places other than the university. Sorry I am not any help to your survey at this time. • Not a property owner, am unaware of the contributions. • I don't get to use the public P&R services much as I am busy with school. Therefore, I don't know much about the programs offered to the community. • I am unable to use any of the facilities and I would be doing an injustice to the ones that can. • We have only actually lived in CS for a month...so I am not sure how accurate my evaluation is. However, we have been in this area for 12 years. • My answers might not be what you are choosing to do. I am not familiar with College Station, haven't lived here very long. • Although College Station seems to have numerous and nice parks, I am not at all knowledgeable about parks and recreation here -At age 85 my yard is park enough for me. Good luck. • I have not had many experiences with the parks in the areas. I hope that my survey does not skew your results. • I really have no knowledge of any of this information. • I felt like I couldn't really give any meaningful response on the survey. I mainly work nights & sleep during the day so I don't use the parks as often as I'd like. • I am a fairly new resident of College Station (less than one year) and am not completely informed of all recreational/park activities beyond my local park. Perhaps there should be a newsletter dedicated strictly to parks/recreational activities? If there is such, I would not know where to look up this info w/o internet service. • I have lived in College Station for almost 4 years. I am an 80 year old, living alone. I have not used any of the cities facilities. I probably will not. I may walk some in my area. Age and health hinder me some. Thanks. • Thank you for considering Spec to complete this survey. He is no longer able to use the parks. He is very limited as to the use of the golf course. • In regards to page 9 (perceptions), I'm not familiar with any programs that I have not participated in. • You send out info (I think) that I don't read. ? My "perceptions are ill-informed. • Q7: really am not that informed with the content of these questions. Sorry. • Because I am a college student and I work a lot I don't know a whole lot about the Parks and Recreation Services in College Station. • deceased • Thanks, but I cannot provide informed input. I do not use any city facilities! • We just moved to CS w/in the past month, so we have not had a chance to visit these sites or to research and form an opinion. • Q7: unanswered; no knowledge of current contribution. • Many questions in this list are not familiar to me. Residents' Open-ended Responses Festivals/Events • Too much staff time is spent on holiday display at Central Park, especially when there is a fabulous display down the road that is affordable. As noted earlier, the parks dept spends too much manpower on the Christmas in the Park event. Overall, I think the Parks Dept does a good job with what they have and just need more resources. • We love Earth Day activities and BioBlitz. • Stop the free concert series. Waste of money. Poor entertainment. • The fishing pond at Central Park needs to be cleaned of trash more regular, kids going fishing don't want to catch coke cans or plastic bags their first time fishing. Keep parks cleaner and they are more inviting. • I love the concerts in the summer at Wolf Pen Amphitheater. This type of community event is a good idea. Please continue them in the future. • I think the events and activities of Wolf Pen are great! Very family oriented! • Starlight Music Series Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheatre Concerts are wonderful -should be year round! Survey/ Methodologies • Yah, who is going to analyze these data? • Thank you for changing the survey/postage return to proper U.S. mail permit form. • Don't bother me anymore! • Thank you for the invitation for me, this survey is much too long and detailed. In addition, I have no idea about most of these items. I find it impossible for most citizens to have informed/meaningful views about most of these items. I suspect most replies will reflect little more than "pooled ignorance". • I can see the city really cares about what the community feels be I was sent 3 questionnaires. I finally made time to fill one out. I hope this is of help to the community and the city. • Thanks for sending out the reminders on this survey. Please accept my apology for the delay in returning it to you. Thanks! • Thank you for allowing my input. • Did the RPTS dept charge you (Le. us) for the survey or is it free? • Taxes/ Fees • We need to reduce taxes for those on fixed incomes • Increase tax support by taking funds from arts council. 1) I drive by statues and sculptures. 2) I play in parks 3) Which gives you more for your tax money? #2 of course. • Respondent commented on increasing tax support to keep up with growth. 10% increase in housing and commercial building increase by 10%. We baby-sit a lot it seems; 5 children ages 0-10. This impacts our needs & expectations more than normal. • Most of the items listed should not be funded by Parks & Rec tax receipts. Focus on parks & rec-not a social agenda! It's obvious that your department feels entitled to my money! • Q3 (tax support): This won't happen. Administration will receive raises. Very little will go toward parks. • Q3: use lottery monies from this community to assist with park development. My property taxes are obscene. Q5: I am well-informed about plans for parks in my neighborhood...especially the desire to install lights & sidewalks in a greenspace that is almost a bird refuge. Don't do it! Rather than increasing the already high tax burden, utilize the millions & millions generated by the lottery. At legislative level, work to have a percentage of lottery monies generated by our community earmarked for parks & recreation. • I feel overall that College Station does a good job in this area but with all things there is always room for improvement. We do have more than some places. Being in the middle class classification I definitely don't want to see taxes raised for anything. It could put me under! Residents' Open-ended Responses Survey/ Methodologies Continued • College Station needs to do something about the high taxes. This is hurting people who want to buy not only for homes, but investment property. • 1 am only a few years from retirement and would like to retire in College Station. However, I can hardly pay my taxes every year, and will not be able to retire here. • Thank you for guiding CS park development. Try to use the tax $ given to you more carefully, especially vehicles & gasoline, electricity. Private contributions are useful with continued careful control over content. • Stop wasting money on dumb statues, such as the Bonfire Brown Pot at Northgate! What a tremendous waste of good tax dollars! • One of the attractions for CS is its parks & trails. We are willing to pay higher taxes than other cities in Brazos Co. to maintain these. • No additional tax money! Use what you have more efficiently. Thanks for asking my opinion. • 2) These modern art statues around town are a waste of money & are an embarrassment to the community. • Bring businesses in to increase the tax base. City Concerns • College Station's master plan development seems extremely weak. For a city with such high property taxes, I am disappointed at poor development. (i.e. mixing multi -family dwellings near schools with commercial zoning across the road) Although not directly related to you, it is a bigger part of the problems you face! Good Luck • I would really like to see Wolf Pen Creek become an area for restaurants shops on the waterfront or somewhere in CS area. There is not much of an evening area to relax and eat or entertainment...very poor considering we have lots of space to build something. Woodlands River walk etc. bring a lot of people here. • The concrete bumpers that have been installed in the middle of residential streets south of TAMU campus are 1)a waste of money 2)a driving hazard 3) one of the stupidest things this city has done in some years! • River Walk atmosphere would be great around Wolf Pen...Better waterfront ambiance is very attractive. • Please keep parks & recreation facilities in the forefront of all long-range planning in the city's agenda. • We have attractive and well maintained parks, which are well used. You discourage business & development by onerous restrictions on building, parking, lots, streets, ect. • I own two homes in CS. My biggest concern for the city at this time is with the rampant growth and all the problems that can spring from that. I moved here from Houston for a reason. I want my neighborhood integrity maintained with zoning protection and city ordinances. I do not want urban sprawl, traffic, and general junkiness. Recreation/Community Center • We need to do a better job providing services to the elderly in our community. Would like to see greater diversity in persons who utilize existing programs -they sometimes have the appearance of catering to a specific population (white, middle, upper-class). • I would like to see indoor Rec Center w/ a variety of group fitness classes offered. • C.S. needs a dedicated Seniors Center, with continuous programming. • I think that an indoor rec facility especially swimming would be very beneficial for senior to encourage regular exercise. Please, no more poorly planned projects that cost a lot and don't work out or don't last. The support of activity facilities should be really emphasized. There are already too many poor activity choices for young people. • With an aging population a multi -use building that includes senior citizen programs would be great. This building could be used for xtra education programs as well. Other City Employees' Open-ended Responses Trails and Greenways • We should attempt to obtain the park/recreation status of Park City, Utah, in which the city gets the developers to link mountain bike single track around all of their developments. • We need mountain bike trails similar or better than Lake Bryan. • Connectivity! Greenways & regional park should be priorities. • Would like to see bike paths throughout the city that "do not" run near or next to streets. • Pavilions, benches along trails, (more walking trails), low amperage lighted trails, • Also, interconnecting trails & bike paths are very important. Teen and Youth • We need a place where our children can go, besides the mall. • What is the plan for the 5-8 yr outlook on providing citizens with parks/attractions other than more softball or soccer fields? • Other than teen center, there isn't much for teens 16-19 to do in this town. • More playgrounds! Particularly for young children -traditional type parks for the whole family. • Love to see facilities geared towards pre-schoolers. • Contraints and Accessibility • Focus more on enhancing existing facilities and putting neighborhood parks in middle -low income neighborhoods. Maintenance and Upkeep • Veteran Park's fields during summer months are like concrete (the infold). The lights and score boards at Veteran's often malfunction. • Need additional shade at Central Park. • Gabbard park is a disgrace. Parks has to be more responsible for the facilities they already have. Gabbard park is not maintained properly! • I think some of the flowers planted should be planted in a way that no flowers have to be dug up and thrown away -this is a shame. The ponds need more care such as getting garbage and moss out. • Landscaping at new parks and city facilities, and eventually all existing parks and city facilities, should follow a systematic approach: soil improvement, plants adapted for low water use in the local area, mulch, drip irrigation, rain shutoff sensors on irrigation systems, integrated pest management practices, etc. The landscaping at City Hall, Texas & Walton, and the wastewater plant are good examples of this concept. These landscapes could be set up as "demonstration sites" to show the public a more sustainable approach to landscaping. This could become a public outreach/education opportunity between Parks, Public Works, and Utilities departments. • Parks need bathroom facilities & water fountains in good repair. Many parks have no bathrooms & many have broken (no) water fountains. • Keep up the good work. Build a privacy fence around the equipment area at Southwood maint. Building. • Don't maintain parks already have. Many areas are beyond scope of parks/rec and belong to state agency(s). Other areas, if run by the city, would expose city to law suits if accident occurs on facility. • Parks dept should not be putting in any more parks until they can take care of the parks they have. Gabbard park pond is a mess. You can't and have not been able to cross the bridge to the island now for 9 months or better! If you can't spend money to fix this you sure don't need another park. The growth in the lakes makes them have waste too! • Would like brush cleared from parks (enhanced safety) & exercise stations at large parks. City Employees' Open-ended Responses Aquatics • Need another pool south of Rock Prairie. • The pools are not open long enough. • Why don't we have a year-round lap -pool like Bryan? • Management at pools needs overhaul before someone gets seriously hurt and sues the city. Dog Park • Please build a dog park! • Please put in a dog park and research it and do it right. Facilites • Skate parks and waterparks should be built . • I think a local zoo would draw tourists to the area, instead of having to drive to Houston, people near to the city would come here instead. • Basketball court. • If we build a Rec Center I would like to see a rock climbing wall. It could be a great source of revenue. • I'd like to see more "equine friendly" areas as well as a facility added to host equine shows and competitions. • My biggest gripe: Bathrooms in every park! I can't see taking kids to a park for an afternoon on a playground with a picnic, then there's no bathroom. Even low maintenance, open at facilities like state parks would be better than nothing. • Would like a gun range. • Steve, I want a zoo! • A water park and skate park would be very beneficial to the community. • A water park would be a great investment. • Big water park! Why not get Splash Town or Six Flags involved? Even a joint venture? What about A&M? A water park called Aggieland with some rides too. Think of the student jobs and the attraction to the community and kids. • Rock climbing walls are very progressive and attract great people to the city, but they don't have to be indoors. Some cities put them on the outside of buildings. How about a bouldering wall at Central Park? Open Play Spaces • All weather areas for kids to play ball, etc. Room for pickup games. Ball fields not closed due to rain. • Let the kids use ball fields. When I was a kid we could get together and play ball on the local field. People cared about a safe place for us not how pretty or how much money we could siphon. Family Activites • The city needs a public golf course. One that is well maintained. This would help out tourism. • I would like to see a shift to more family-oriented parks & community recreation facilities (traditional playgrounds, storyland, trees, & picnic areas, pools) & less sports fields & facilities aimed at drawing tourism to the city. I would like to see the emphasis on meeting the needs of the life-long residents that build this community. City Employees' Open-ended Responses Athletics • Quit relying softball tourneys to support parks. Allow softball teams access to fields for practice time. • Veterans Parks needs to have Phase II finished so we don't have to use porta-cans to go to the bathroom. A concession stand needs to be built and the prices being charged for condiments are outrageous. • More batting cages like the one at Bee Creek with electricity. We need more cages at Lemon Tree & one more at Bee Creek and the park on Holleman & Wellborn. • The city needs more baseball facilities for youth and adults. With tournament baseball as popular as it is, that is a great money maker for the City of College Station. • Lights at Central Park softball fields are too low. • Veteran's Park Phase II needs to go ahead and be finished up. The big softball tournaments that we hold and the park has no real concession stand or bathrooms by the field. This just does not look good for that size of tournaments. • Water park. Zoo. • CS has great parks, but the interest & money put into attracting tourists i.e. for soccer, baseball field use seems greater than the amount of energy put into it's own residents using these amenities. Our local team should be able to use these fields @ a much greater discount. Take care of your own, first! • The parks dept needs to reassign certain people in order to bring a more professional management team into play. Attendance has fallen off at softball events as people have gone elsewhere to find better facilities in other areas. • Flag football is big in the state of Texas. You have a couple of well known state ranked teams. If parks had designated fields for football so that more seasons could be played and did a better job of promoting the league it would be a great success year round. There is a demand for this. I would also like to see College Station bid on hosting the TAAF Flag Football State Championships. • Programs should be offered instead of just the standard stick and ball games. • Please soften up the infields at the Veteran's and Central Park softball fields. They are dangerous to dive on and slide on, esp. Veteran's fields which are not quite as hard as concrete, but up there with thin/old artificial turf. Beautification and Restorative Environments • Provide more shade area. Provide water ways for ascetic value. • Providing street trees along thorough -fares to improve waikability and beautification. • Continue to acquire additional park South & East. Compliments • Good job! • I use Thomas Park a lot for walking. I'm enjoying the recent improvements there. A few more benches would be appreciated. • Very good! • Keep up the good work in keeping the City of College Station clean & neat. • No other group of people in COCS is as positive & proud as parks & rec staff. Attitudes in parks are excellent. Quality is outstanding. • Great people to work with; • CS Parks Dept. is a very professional group. One of the best depts. In the state! CS is lucky to have the dedicated people who strive to give us their very best. • Keep up the good work! • Parks does a fantastic job! Everything y'all do improves CS. I love to drive by and see how well maintained our parks are. Y'all also offer more programs/classes than anywhere I have seen. Keep up the good work! • It is a great department! Parks does a great job. City Employees' Open-ended Responses Compliments Continued • Keep up the good work! • Thanks for all you do for College Station! • Spud rocks! • This is probably the best park system I have ever seen. • They're doing a good job compared to other cities. • The overall parks dept. does a great job. • I think you all are great! • I'm proud of our parks. But I also see need for improvements. • I believe you all do a tremendous job. I live in Bryan, but come to parks in C.S. I enjoy working w/ you all. • You are doing an outstanding job! Keep up the great work. • They rock! • The services are excellent. The department takes great pride in their parks and they are well maintained. • I think you all do a great job! I'm proud to live in College Station. • Parks & Rec Services in College Station are excellent, many larger cities could learn a lot from our Parks & Rec Department. • There are always areas to improve in but overall, you folks do a great job! Keep up the good work! • They do an excellent job. • Your front line/support staff are always very courteous & helpful to everyone I've sent there for questions -my friends always rave about how helpful they are & how quickly any issues get a satisfactory resolution. Thanks for helping the city look good. • Very nice. • Overall, I believe the COCS has excellent parks. Let's build on what we have. • I think you are doing a great job overall. I love the extra education classes! • It's all good...Jos' do what you do. • I have the opportunity to travel a good bit and am constantly reminded when I see other city parks and facilities how ours really "outshines" most others in the way they look, are clean and kept well maintained. We are blessed! Other • Staff size in parks seems to be very large for a city our size. • Fifteen years ago CS had a great centrally located parks system. This is no longer true. The parks department needs to catch up with development, specifically in new neighborhoods. • Municipal court • The parks world headquarters seems a bit small. Time to upgrade. Communication • Bring utilities community education up dates. Knowledge/ Use • The last question (#6) I have no idea what Parks & Rec's current contribution is. Festivals/Events • Bringing entertainers that are a little more known during Starlight Music Who's Ray Price, Bobby Bare, Brave Combo? A town festival -a real "down home fest". Cinco de Mayo, Mardi Gras, • Please continue the Starlight Music Series. My children love it and it's a good way to introduce music to children. My whole family has an awesome time there. • Keep the Starlight Music Series going. That is a great event. We enjoy participating with you and it is a great chance to give back to the community. • Have more concerts.