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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04/17/2012 06 2012-2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan BUSINESS OF THE CITY COUNCIL YAKIMA, WASHINGTON AGENDA STATEMENT Item No For Meeting of April 17. 2012 ITEM TITLE Public Hearing and Resolution for Council consideration and adoption of the 2012 2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan SUBMITTED BY Chris Waarvick Director of Public Works Ken Wilkinson Parks and Recreation Manager CONTACT Ken Wilkinson Parks and Recreation Manager 575 6416 PERSON/TELEPHONE Joseph Calhoun Parks Planner 575 6162 SUMMARY EXPLANATION The 2012 2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan has been through an extensive review process and is hereby submitted for Council consideration and adoption The plan was reviewed by the Parks and Recreation Commission on February 8 2012 where a recommendation for approval was rendered by the Commission A significant effort was put into conducting a city wide public survey in mid year 2011 The results provide important guidance in the plan submitted for your adoption Please bring your copy of the draft 2012 2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan previously distributed on March 20 2012 Draft 2012 2017 Parks and Recreation Resolution X Ordinance Other Comprehensive (specify) Plan and Recommendation from Parks Commission Contract Mail to Contract Tenn Amount Expiration Date Insurance Required'? NO Funding Phone Source APPROVED FOR City Manager SUBMITTAL STAFF RECOMMENDATION Staff requests the City Council to conduct the Public Hearing and subsequently adopt the 2012 2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan pursuant to the attached Resolution BOARD /COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION The City of Yakima Parks and Recreation Commission recommended approval of the Plan on February 8 2012 ATTACHMENTS Clickto dovnload ❑P arksPlan Resolution ❑ Survey Results P ovierpoint ❑Park Commission Recommendation ID 2012-2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan RESOLUTION NO R -2012- A RESOLUTION adopting the 2012 -2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan. WHEREAS, the City of Yakima operates and maintains an extensive parks system; and WHEREAS, since 1984 the City of Yakima has had a formally adopted Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan, and WHEREAS, the plan has been available for public review and comment on the Parks and Recreation website, and, WHEREAS, SEPA Environmental Review is completed and a Determination of Nonsignificance (DNS) was issued on February 14, 2012; and, WHEREAS, at its meeting on February 8, 2012, the City of Yakima Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed and recommended approval of the plan, and WHEREAS, the proposed plan complies with the state Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) requirements, and WHEREAS, adoption of the plan will permit the City to apply for state RCO funding; and WHEREAS, at a public hearing during its regularly scheduled meeting on April 17, 2012, the City Council received and reviewed the 2012 -2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan, together with the recommendation for approval by the Parks and Recreation Commission, and the record herein, and WHEREAS, the City Council deems it to be in the best interest of the people of the City of Yakima that the proposed plan be approved and adopted, now, therefore, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF YAKIMA. The Yakima City Council hereby approves and adopts the 2012 -2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan, a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL this 17th day of April, 2012. Micah Cawley, Mayor ATTEST City Clerk Yakima s !arks A uo. tAte and ik-'cati 2012 -2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan Update Survey Results In June 2011, 4,300 survey's were mailed to random City of Yakima residents The survey was 4 pages long and contained a variety of questions dealing with park usage, media, park facilities, recreation programs, customer service, future planning, and demographic /background information. The survey was provided in English and Spanish. Included in the mailer were: 1 coupon for a free swim (for up to 5 people) and 1 coupon good for $2 off a round of golf at Fisher (for up to 4 people). 868 surveys were mailed back and tabulated (20.1% return). In addition to the random mailer, the survey was available for pickup, printout on the city website, and to take online with Survey Monkey. 354 people took the survey online with Survey Monkey, and an additional 70 were filled out and brought in. The total survey return was 1,292. Yakima ItrartIrt Background Information Do you live within the Yakima City Limits? How long have you lived in Yaklima? 196 2% Ai. • Lessthan lyear • 1to3years o Yes 4 to 8 years 6I No �! O 9 to 13 years • 14 to 18 years Y More than 18 years Yakima silartA Park Usage Southeast Community Which Yakima City Center,3.9% Cherry Park, 1.1% Parks do you visit Summitview Park, 2.6% West Valley Elks Memorial Park, 6.5% es a regularly? Raymond Park, 1.0% Community Fairbrook Park, 1.4% Park, 25.1 % / Fisher Park Golf Course, 19.6% Randall Park, 58 2% / ' __ — — -- — Franklin Park, 65 4%1 Powerhouse Canal / r \ 1 Pathway, 12.3% . .. i Pe rry Soccer Complex, 7.4% Milroy Park, 6.3% Top 3: . a Miller Park, 9.1% Franklin Park — 65.4% McGuinness Park, 0.6% Gilbe Gailkon Park - Harman Randall Park — 58 2% •ark 15. Center,10.7% Kissel Park — 33 4% Martin Luther King Gardner Park, 2.3% Park, 5.0% Larson Park, 7.7% Wa � Kiwanis Park, 11.2% O,d n,� 7T7,vlj Park Usage What type of park and recreation amenities do you and your family use the most? Baseball Fields, 13.9% Miller or MLK Spray Park, 6.1% Walking/Nature Trails, 60.7% Volleybaa Courts, 5.9% Tennis Courts, 15.6% Swimming Pools, 41.0% Top 3: Softball Fields, 7.7% Soccer Walking /Nature Trails — 60.7% Fields, 16.7% Pathway — 53 2% Open Space — 41 I Skatepark, 6.1% Park Usage On average, how often do you visit parks? Ve'y a ehj, 6.O% Nevr, ' What bringsyourfamilyto the park? 100.0% izr thr.espe, 90.0% Less than 5 - - 80.0% — times per year, 9.9% 70.0% — 60.0% `,� 50.0% 40.0% II 11 Once per 30.0% Aikk 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Location Amenities Organized Number of people at activities /events the park month, 6.6% Park Usage N Harman Center Have you visited the Harman Center? Harman Center usage /participation Cards, 7.4% __ _. _ Games, 4.5% 1 Organized Groups, 10.6% No Billiards, 1.9% . Coffee Bar, 13.8% Dances, 12 5% 1 Yes 11111,1 ' 0 / .0% 20.0% 40.0% 60.0% 80.0% 100.0% I i Rental, Have you volunteered at the Harman Center? Computer Room 8 1 I Classes, 13.8% Na Saturday Breakfast, 8.0% Yes 4 Dinner, 5.6% Yakima . l 0.0% 20.0% 40.0% 60.0% 80.0% 100.0% Recrer / Media Questions How do you receive your information regarding parkfacilities a ncl recreation programs? What method do you prefer for the registration 100.0% 90.0% of park programs and facility rentals? 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% Te! i t'o vaI �a 10.0% , _ ' =on. `--._ • ,egk ratan, 32.2 °a 0.0% T T T Seasonal Program Newspaper Program Facebook Website Guide Brochure 1 How would you like to receive your park and recreation information in the future? Vicki 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% Ih rHsv_a_imii 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% Seasonal Newspaper TV/Radio Program Facebook Website Direct mail Program Advertising Brochure Guide fnb Media Questions Have you watched the Parks and Recreation Commission meetings Have you ever attended a Parks and Recreation Commission on YPAC? meeting live at City Hall? Yves Y Ves V No 14 No Are you in favor of the Parks and Recreation Division selling If you have watched meetings on YPAC, did you find them advertising space in our Seasonal Program Guides to decrease informative? printing costs? 9% Y Ves ■ Y es V No Y N 1Fakia 1 a� Parks Facility Opinion Questions How do you rate park maintenance? (such as cleanliness, field and How important are City Parks and equipment condition, mowing, etc.) Recreation Facilities to you and your 100.0% family? 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% Not No Opinion, 4.0% 60.0% Important,4.4% - 50.0% 40.0% 20.0% 20.0% 10.0% � � 0.0% `� 11 Excellent Good Average Poor No Opinion How do you rate park structures and features? (such as li ghting, tables, parking, playgrounds, restrooms, etc.) 100.0% Important, 27.3% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% - 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% Excellent Good Average Poor No Opinion YrAi od Parks Facility Opinion Questions When you visit City Parks, do you feel safe? Are Yakima's Parks meeting your family's local recreational needs? 14% 11% 6% V Yes / 8% Y Yes V No S No J Don't Know Li Don't Know N Undecided Id Undecided Of the Yes answers, there were a number of residents who qualified their 'Yes' answer with saying that it is dependent on the Park and the Time of Day Yakima &part Parks Facility Opinion Questions What Parks and Recreation Amenities Baseball Fields, 6.6% would you like to see more of? Walking/Nature Trails, 57.3% Volleyball Courts, 10.5% Pathways, 46.3% • ` Tennis courts, 8.7% , Swimming I 111 6 111111 Cols /Water ures, 56.0'Y, Top 3. Wal kl ng /Nature Tral l s — 57.3 % Swimming Pools/Water Features — 56.0% Pathways —46.3% Softball Fields, 4.3% Skateparks, 7.6% nw Soccer Fields, 11.3% �� a., Oe er ;� - #'7.Ty/ i. Parks Facility Opinion Questions Please rate the following facilities on how important they are to you and your family? 800 700 . 600 V Verylmportant 500 • u Important 400 W Somewhat Important 300 �, W Not Important 200 100 0 — Qo o \ Qo o\ o` er `e J � S e \e + e` ¢ \ a5 \ e + • \ 0 C. F (.o o �Q ` F . \ �� o �Q co • a° L e o �� C, c e o a r L �a F a 0 �� o` e �a � o & Q A 0 4# kb _es a , 5 te e, 1/4,- t 4- CP Se pki Parks Facility Opinion Questions Tahoma Cemetery is owned and operated by the City of Yakima. Do If yes, please rate the burial services that were provided for you and you have a family member buried at Tahoma? your family. 26% Excellent V Yes Y Good - No u Average 1% Y Poor 7% 68 \ V No Opinion Yakima mere Recreation Program Questions Have you or any members of your family participated in ANY Would you or your family members participate in the programs recreation programs? again? 1/01, t7 Yes Y Yes � No V No How would you rate the quality of the recreation program? 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 1 ii 30.0% 20.0% 10.096 akima 0.0% a Excellent Good Fair Poor nesi Recreation Program Questions Hydro Fit, 4.7% Beyond the Bell after Which Recreation Programs Flag Football, 3.2% r school program, 3.2% have you or your family 1 • duk Soccer League, 6.9% participated in? Aduk Basketball League, 6 5% Youth Swim Aduk Volleball Lessons, 26.7% League, 8.1% Dodgeball, 2.3% Youth Soccer Golf Lessons, League,29.9% Halloween Haunted Trail, 10.9% Friday Hight Top 3' Outings, 4 2% Wood Working, 1.7% Swim Lessons — 4 l 8% Youth Soccer League — 29 9% Harman Center Programs — 29 4% Trekn Travel Trolley, 4.0% Tennis Lesions, 11.6% Fitness Boot Camp, 2.2% A� l Golf League, 2.9% 41Tournaments, 6.2% Customer Service Please rate your telephone interactions with park and recreation Please rate your response to an email question. staff. N/A - N/A Poor Poor Fair Fair i Average Average Good Good 1 Excellent Excellent IIII 0.0% 20.0% 40.0% 60.0% 80.0% 100.0% 0.0% 20.0% 40.0% 60.0% 80.0% 100.0% Please rate your face to face interactions with park maintenance staff. N/A Poor Fair 1 Average MI Good Excellent I Ab 0.0% 20.0% 40.0% 60.0% 80.0% 100.0% Cc irr Future Planning Questions Do you think the Yakima Parks and Recreation Division should become a Metropolitan Parks District, if no additional tax dollars are used? 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 59.5% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Yes No Undecided Ya ima Future Planning Questions Would you be willing to pay a small tax increase that could only be used for Parks and Recreation? 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Yes No Undecided lea Future Planning Questions Would you and yourfamily support a small tax increase for a specific new park facility? E.g. Aquatic Center 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% nk 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Yes No Undecided Future Planning Questions Do you think that the costs for recreation programs should be subsidized with tax dollars? 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Yes No Undecided l Future Planning Questions Do you think our community should continue providing quality of life services funded by general government revenues? 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Yes No Undecided *L.\ Future Planning Questions Do you think that the Parks and Recreation Division should build a Iarger swimming pool in the future? 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Yes No Undecided "mil Future Planning Questions Do you think that land should be purchased for the future development of more parks? 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 51.6% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Yes No Undecided l Future Planning Questions What kinds of new parks should be developed? / No New Parks, 13.3% Mint Parks (less than 2 acres), 16 7% Future Planning Questions How should new parks be developed? Mufti -Use, 68.1% Playground, 33. • l Demographic Information What is your age? 19.2% 20.0% 17.2% 15.3% 9i iliIi i 7% 11.4% 0.7% 1.0% 14 or 15 -19 20 -29 30 -39 40 -49 50 -59 60-69 70 -79 80+ Younger What is your gender? 69.2% 26.8% 3.9% nia Male Female I choose not to answer ff#.,. (2., ah#t7 Demographic Information How many people live in your house or apartment? 38.8% 16.8% 14.4% 13.3% I 9.8% 4111 11 19 0.6% 0.0% 0.1% — co 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11+ How many children live in your home underthe age of 18? 58.2% I 16.7% III 12.1% 8.4% — 3.5% ME 0.7% 0.5% None 1 2 3 4 5 6 o more alla Demographic Information What is your ethnic origin? 78.9% 14.3% 6.4% 1.0% 1.7% 1.7% 0.4% - 0 African American American Indian Asian Hawaiian or Pacific Hispanic or Latino White /Caucasian 1 choose not to Islander answer Demographic Information What is your yearly family income? 18.6% 15.2% 13.8% 11.6% 11.0% 4.5% i 9.2% 10.1% 6.2% O O O O O a a¢ `yry 0 00 cc"; O OO 1 y O O O O Oy 5. cr P 0yO y O O 0 � �0000 O �y tiy y ~y O � ` `ow e e y10• y*Iv y4 O' y42 000 00 ' 0 .1P' Oo y y + p'o° o°� Ny What is your highest level of education? 31.1% 23.7% 20.4% 12.0% 3.1% 2.7% 3.6% 2.1% 1� Grade 8 or Some High High Some College Post Some Technical 1 choose less School School College Graduate Graduate Technical School not to Graduate Courses Degree School Graduate answer Irgidlna Courses rast ¶L O.taNl b ■ Additional Information The final question on the survey was a request for additional information from citizens. There were 279 responses submitted. Responses were mostly positive, however there were several valid points made which will help us improve parks in the future. Y akjma Park e , Itencrp, te pet, YAKIMA PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION TO THE YAKIMA CITY COUNCIL FOR 2012 -2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan February S, 2012 WHEREAS Under the provisions of YMC 1 35 the Yakima Parks and Recreation Commission is authorized to review and to recommend the approval or modification of the plan, and, WHEREAS The 2012 -2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan has been reviewed at monthly Commission meetings in 2011 and 2012; and, WHEREAS The Yakima Parks and Recreation Commission, at its regularly scheduled meeting on February 8, 2012, held an open - record public hearing to consider the 2012 -2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan; and, WHEREAS Suggested edits, as noted in the minutes, will be implemented as requested; now therefore, The City of Yakima Parks and Recreation Commission presents the following motion to the Yakima City Council: MOTION The City of Yakima Parks and Recreation Commission recommends APPROVAL of the 2012- 2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan, as modified rf Rod (Ilan Date February 8, 2012 Yakima Parks and Recreation Commission Yakima Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes for February 8, 2012 Commissioners Present. Rod Bryant, Chair, Sam Karr Vice Chair, Robert Busse, Tom Hinman, Paul Williams, Jo Miles, and Alec Regimbal. Absent and Excused Commissioner Mike Nixon and Tim Pettingtll; Maureen Adkison, Yakima City Council Liaison Staff present: Ken Wilkinson, Parks & Recreation Manager, Joseph Calhoun, Planner; and Melynn Skovald, Public Works Office Assistant. Call to Order. Chairman Rod Bryant called the February 8, 2012 meeting to order at 5 30 p m with a quorum present at City Hall in the Council Chambers, 129 North 2 Street, Yakima, Washington. There was a motion to approve as written the minutes of the January 11, 2011 Yakima Parks and Recreation Commission meeting. The minutes were unanimously approved Yakima Valley Disc Golf Association Proposal Ken Wilkinson reported that since the initial presentation last November to the Parks Commission, Parks and Recreation staff met with disc golf proponents to identify how funds could be raised for equipment for the disc golf program Jesse Ingram with Yakima Valley Disc Golf Association described the proposed "sponsoring a hole" fund raising effort, explaining they will approach local businesses and ask them to be a sponsor or to donate equipment, including baskets, tee pads and signs Legends Casino will also be asked for a grant to help fund the cost of the course. Ken Wilkinson noted that if this proposal is approved to go forward, a public meeting would be held to gather public input. Businesses could make a "tax deductible" donation directly to Parks with such donations to be dedicated for the Yakima Valley Disc Golf Association Proposal. Mr. Ingram also provided a general overview of what the sport is, explaining that scoring for disc golf is the same as ball golf. He also outlined a tentative timeline, if this proposal moves forward, to build a temporary 9 -hole disc golf course at Randall Park with the potential to expand to an 18 -hole course sometime in the future Ken Wilkinson also added that if the proposal is approved, Yakima's Park Maintenance would like Yakima Valley Disc Golf Association to partner with them on temporary course design which would be helpful before finalization of how a permanent course would go in and let everyone see just how the round would play Installation will also involve volunteer work parties to help build the course. Also available was Shawn Hadley, Coordinator with Washington State Disc Golf Tournament Series, who provided a handout and explained that disc golf has developed a large following and they play in their own age group from novice on up. In an effort to attract more players, Washington State Disc Golf Tournament Series in conjunction with Yakima Valley Disc Golf Association is offering to host a one -day, 18 hole disc golf charity event at Sarg Hubbard Park at the end of March to benefit Northwest Harvest and local food banks Chairman Rod Bryant pointed out that this would be a great opportunity to show how the game is played and what a disc golf course would actually look like. Shawn Hadley added that a second fund raising series event is also proposed for late August which would provide an additional opportunity to see how the game is played and how the course would work Temporary baskets will be used at both charity events Questions from Parks Commission members were entertained and discussion followed about temporary course lay out location at Randall 1 Park north of Wide Hollow Creek and handling parking access on a case by case basis during tournaments similar to how parking is handled during summer concerts in the park It was moved by Tom Hinman, seconded by Alec Regimbal, to give the Yakima Valley Disc Golf Association the go ahead to continue looking at this Disc Golf proposal and planning of the course; let them go ahead and start their fund raising; to have the authority to go forward with course planning and to start talking with businesses about raising funds, and then go ahead and send a letter out to the neighbors and do a press release to make sure residents are informed about this possibility and then they get to weigh in on it The motion was unanimously approved. Comprehensive Master Plan — Open Record Public Hearing Joseph Calhoun gave a brief presentation on the updated final draft 2012 — 2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan that includes edits from the last Parks Commission meeting as well as research text on history and wildlife sections for the community settings chapter The Comp Plan is a master planning /reference document and provides guidance to staff for the City's parks system and recreational programs for the next five to ten years. There are a number of chapters in the plan document, including target projects and programs that meet grant funding eligibility guidelines through RCO and other grant funding agencies. Essentially, unless there are any modifications that would require additional hearing or testimony, the next step would be a recommendation from the Parks Commission to City Council for review and approval and then the Plan would be on file with RCO to begin a new 6 -year timeline for grant application. RCO provides a manual that includes a number of essential elements to have an approved plan through them for the upcoming grant cycle A draft plan was sent to RCO in January 2012 for preliminary review and there were no deficiencies and everything appears to be in order with them Staff recommends that the Parks Commission approve the draft Comp Plan and then submit it to the City Council for approval For the sake of readability, Parks Commissioner Jo Miles offered several park name /map text correlation format suggestions. Joseph indicated that there will be several editing and format tracking changes that will be done in the format finalization process and the maps will be on 11 x 17 full size maps It was moved by Williams, seconded by Hinman, to recommend that the draft 2012 -2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan with all the changes outlined in red incorporated into the document go to City Council for approval. The motion carried unanimously. The Commission thanked Joseph Calhoun for all his hard work and complimented him on the fine job he's done on this document Commissioner Jo Miles also pointed out that the comp plan is a valuable planning tool to meet basic national quality of life standards for the amount and type of park facilities for communities with the population size similar to Yakima Parks & Recreation Manager's Report. Ken Wilkinson explained that due to budget reductions we won't be able to do the number of movies we had last year; probably going to do three and then try and raise funds for an additional six The cost is about $600 a piece. Letters will be sent out asking the community to sponsor a movie for the Summer Outdoor Movies Series held at Randall and Gilbert Parks These movies are shown on the inflatable screen Full sponsorships are available for $600; half sponsorships are available for $300. Sponsors will receive recognition for their donation. A memorandum about this will be sent to City Council. 2 Kiwanis Park Project. Recognizing a very well written article by a teacher at Eisenhower High School, Ken Wilkinson explained that he was recently interviewed along with some of the partners involved with the Kiwanis Park Project. The Kiwanis Park Project is ready to start up again on March 1, with the contractor pushing through to completion. A ribbon cutting grand opening is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, September 22, 2012 Seniors, Inc. Seniors, Inc. will be having their monthly meeting on February 9, 2012. This group is our not for profit organization that raises funds for us at the Harman Center. Their spaghetti feed is on February 16, 2012 at the Harman Center at 5 00 p m The cost is $8.00. Good of the Order. Park Commissioner Bob Busse reported that the presentation made to the Sunrise Rotary Club about the pavilion at Franklin Park was well received by the group. National Partnership Award. A nomination of the Kiwanis Park Project is being submitted for the National Partnership Award presented by the National Recreation Park Association This project is noteworthy for the fantastic partnership of the Kiwanis Park Project and should be recognized nationally. 2013 Parks & Recreation Fees. Increased fees are being considered for use of City park facilities and participation in City recreational programs and activities, including contracted services, facility rentals, picnic shelters, swim lessons and maybe the Harman Center Tahoma Cemetery fees will be re- evaluated this summer WRPA Video — Gang Prevention A short 3 minute video from WRPA was shown about parks and gang prevention, explaining just how critical after school involvement opportunities are to kids and the many benefits recreational activities provide to youth. Ken Wilkinson thanked the Commission for telling the story every chance they get about benefits recreational activities provide to youth He also thanked Parks Commissioner Jo Miles for doing his monthly highlight that does just a great job of telling the story and selling the positive image about Parks and Recreation benefits. Ken Wilkinson also encouraged Parks Commissioner Alec Regimbal to continue to write articles, like the great article he wrote about Tahoma Cemetery. Adjournment Chair Rod Bryant reminded everyone that there is no Parks Commission meeting next month; the next meeting will be April 11, 2012 at 5 p.m. The meeting adjourned at 6:20 p.m. 3 ([x.1114 Yakima p OS, t10111„ CITY OF YAKIMA 2012 -2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan YAKIMA CITY COUNCIL Micah Cawley Mayor Maureen Adluson Assistant Mayor Sara Bristol Kathy Coffey Rick Ensey Dave Ettl Bill Lover YAKIMA PARKS AND RECREATION CITY MANAGER COMMISSION Michael Morales Rod Bryant Chairman Sam Karr Vice Chairman PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR Bob Busse Chris Waarvick Tom Hinman Jo Miles PARKS AND RECREATION STAFF Mike Nixon Ken Wilkinson Manager Tim Pettingill Tami Andnnga Recreation Supervisor .Alec Regimbal Traci Bennett Recreation Supervisor Paul Williams Joseph Calhoun Planner Randy Murphy Superintendent SPECIAL THANKS TO Gabby Wilson Sylvia Corona June Smith and Jill Ballard 2012 2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan written and compiled by Joseph Calhoun City of Yakima PARKS AND RECREATION Comprehensive Plan Table of Contents Chapter 1: Introduction 3 Chapter 2: Community Setting 6 Chapter 3: Park Inventory 15 Chapter 4: Needs and Opportunities 33 Chapter 5: Goals and Objectives 56 Chapter 6: Public Participation 68 Chapter 7: Industry Standards, Demands and Needs 88 Chapter 8: Capital Improvement Program 95 Appendix A: Maps 101 Appendix B: Survey 105 2 4 1111 M a Chapter 1 — INTRODUCTION ]/fission Statement Our mission at City of Yakima Parks and Recreation is to provide and promote community leisure as well as recreational and cultural activities for all citizens This is accomplished through professional staff who provide recreational programs and activities and who maintain facility standards making them aesthetic and desirable for use Through our services we strive to enhance personal well being and to improve the quality of life that makes Yakima a great place to live work and play Overall Vision Parks and recreation facilities are considered to be great community assets Parks contribute to our visual landscape and enhance our quality of life Recreation activities allow us to use our leisure time creatively and to make it work on behalf of the community Park and Recreation opportunities require both for the maintenance of existing facilities and the planning for future facilities that an adequate plan be set forth to guide the process Previous Plans This plan prepared in 2011 12 builds on previous comprehensive planning efforts by updating the 2006 2011 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan The plan considers parks recreation and opens pace land facilities and programs collectively referred to as the park system The City of Yakima continues to grow and change as a community There have been several significant changes and updates to the park system since the last comprehensive plan update The park system is attracting a greater number of users than ever before Flexibility in the park system to respond to current trends and changes is paramount to maintaining a vibrant park system This plan outlines general goals objectives and policies specific recommendations and includes an implementation plan to expand and enhance Yakima s park system to be a vital part of the quality of life for the residents now and in the future Plan Obi ectives The specific objectives of this Comprehensive Plan are to • Community Setting Establish the framework within which park recreation and open space facilities should be provided including natural features wildlife habitat historical context land use regulations current recreation trends and demographics 3 • Existing Park System. Update the existing park system inventory in the Yakima area. This includes parks owned and operated by the city or other public agencies within the planning area. • Needs and Opportunities. Analyze the needs for future park, recreation, and open space facilities or programs and develop recommendations for meeting those needs. • Goals and Objectives. Identify the goals and objectives to carry out those goals as the plan is implemented. • Level of Service. Based on the existing park system and the recommendations of the community, establish proposed level of service standards to help guide future development and maintenance of the park system. • Implementation Plan. Establish the overall estimated cost of achieving the proposed level of service, based on the community's recommendations, prioritize those recommendations, and develop a plan to implement those recommendations through a 6 year Capital Improvement plan (CIP) and general strategies to be considered through the year 2032. Public Involvement and Process: Public involvement throughout this process has been extensive and beneficial. To begin, a survey was mailed to 4.000 residents. The survey was also available online, at Public Works, City Hall, the Hannan Center, and other public places. Once the surveys were returned and compiled, two public meetings were scheduled during the month of September. 2011 The public meetings were a great avenue to speak with citizens about individual concerns. SEPA Environmental review was completed. The draft Plan was circulated online prior to the open record hearing with the Parks and Recreation Commission. Following receipt of a recommendation from the conmmission, the plan went to City Council for final approval and adoption. See Chapter 6 for more information on the Public Participation process. Planning Area Boundary: The planning area for this process includes the Yakima City Limits. The Yakima Urban Growth Area (UGA) is shown on Map 1 -1 for reference. The park system areas which are not within the City limits or maintained by the City are referenced: however, future planning and recommendations of areas outside the City are not included with this plan. 4 ice\ ---- 1 � � I L / ' k 1 _ i r _. -- �j � - _. ; I s' l � � 1 �/ - S J il s .--�- - , -- - g , ir �.� SAit "� - ill; r s _ 4 . l ike * X� RI .g. ' _ Nit -. --�- ‘1 -:__ q fi rms - ., &.- � � 1 - " . W v , r i� _ f _ -, _ - . 1 ■ . _ - . -- : Q \ i "� ii ' w�_' : - - �— � - 1 y - - ' , :- l. i ./..`. : 5).- yam -- _j ' '� / , ` i - _l_ ! t _ :7. _......_. d - -- , • l a r ■ -- I U L_: II _I i L -IL / i } `F F - r // \ � L � / -.r -- �—i -- • -- ' Yakima & - 'a ci dti ,i Chapter 2 — COMMUNITY SETTING History The Yakima Valley is an area rich with history The first white men to see the Yakima Valley were members of the fur trade after 1811 Prior to that, the valley was populated by a loose confederacy of tribes and bands of Indians Their primary land use activities were hunting, fishing and gathering These Indians eventually became known as the Yakama Nation Subsequent to the arrival of fur traders in 1811, the valley beckoned to trappers, trades and miners By year 1852, Catholics had established a mission near Ahtanum By the late 1850s permanent settlers began to arrive and military units were called in to settle hostilities between the Indians and the newcomers In 1859 Congress ratified the treatywith the Yakama Nation The pioneers' need to educate their children led F Mortimer Thorp to establish the first school in the Yakima Valley It was located across the river from present -day Union Gap, Just above a prehistoric bog on Birchfield Road Early settlers in this semi -arid climate relied mainly on raising livestock for a living By the late 1860s the first non -Indian irrigation ditch was built from the t ._ Yakima River to a five -acre field between present- =s ,i F,, , F 3 11W; A R day Yakima and Union Gap Soon thereafter, a y rI � t . . network of irrigation ditches brought the area's rich, . L 'I t� volcanic soil to life During this period, settlers ':.2.,,,T.',._: fb , __ • established farms along the river banks while a * �. i ■j�' -. � _. _ ° settlement named Yakima City, located at the i 'k . 4 ` 7 s �, ., - present site of Union Gap, served as the commercial • ""' • _ ;�& ` -,-._ 1, :. ; u `f, : i •center The 432 pioneers in the area in 1870 surged _, f '�' k T` '` e ,. to over 3,000 by 1880 / , i - . ii Courtesy of Yakima Valley Museum In 1884, the Northern Pacific Railroad extended its iron horse service into the area However, the railroad fell into dispute with some of the residents of Yakima City when those residents refused to grant certain concessions to the railroad As a result, the Northern Pacific bypassed the town and established its terminal four miles to the north The stop was named North Yakima Once the terminal was established on North Front Street, the railroad offered to move buildings free of charge from Yakima City to North Yakima As a result, fifty to sixty buildings including the courthouse, banks, general stores, blacksmith shops, saloons, and homes abandoned Yakima City and moved north on timber rollers to surround the new railroad terminal 6 Incorporated on January 27 1886 North Yakima consisted of 159 blocks on the east side of the railroad and was designated as the county seat The old Yakima City was referred to as Old Town by some or as `Union Gap by others When Yakima officially dropped `North from its name in1918 the older community legally adopted Union Gap as its official name By the turn of the century there were nearly 15 000 residents in the area as growth in population followed the rapid development oflarge imgation systems The only trees and green grass in the semi and early North Yakima grew along the rivers and creeks in the area Before it was destroyed by the 1933 flood residents would go to Sumac Park which lied along the j FL Yakima River just south of present day Yakima Avenue - At Sumac they swam in the aver played baseball • pitched horseshoes picnicked and enjoyed band concerts The Naches Avenue Parkway consisting of 15 landscaped blocks went on to become the City s oldest Park property in 1885 In 1908 South 2 Street Park was created at the intersection of South 2" and Race Streets By the 1920s Lions Miller and Portia parks were created and in 1933 the City established a Parks Department to oversee the maintenance and operation of its parks A decade later in 1943 the citizens of Yakima petitioned and subsequently voted to establish an independent Metropolitan Park Distract In 1951 however the State Legislature readjusted the rate of taxation much to the detriment of park distracts .Although the City supported the Distnct with a two million dollar contribution the Distnct now had to submit special levies to the voters every two years in order to raise the necessary revenue for maintenance and operations Obligated to maintain and operate the system at an adequate level and to acquire and develop new areas and facilities for its growing population the District now found itself in a funding crisis Finally in 1968 the maintenance and operations levy failed Dissolution of the Distract became an increasingly logical solution Within a year the new Park Director dissolved the Park Distnct and convinced the City Council that the City should assume responsibility for the Park System The security and direction that accompanied the new relationship not only raised staff morale and effectiveness but also increased public appreciation and participation in the park system .Although a bond issue in 1970 failed with a 59% vote the department staff rallied back the next year and the issue passed in 1971 Parks and Recreation continued operations as a City Department until 1982 when responding to budget shortfalls the City Council voted to override the recommendation of the 7 Park Commission and made Parks and Recreation a division of the Public Works Department. Voters supported parks in 1987 with a $2.5 million bond issue that resulted in the expansion of the North 6th Street Senior Citizen's Center, installation of new irrigation systems in several parks. Chesterley Park's Phase I development and renovation of the Franklin and Washington pools. A new $5 million bond issue which would have supported a wide range of proposals was rejected by voters in 1994. No bonds have been put forth to voters since. A lack of bond revenue did not preclude park development. Successful grant applications and an unusual series of donations set the scene for a period of park development and expansion that extended to 2004 The mid -1990s saw the construction and development of McGuinness Park. the J.M. Perry co -op soccer complex and initial sections of the Powerhouse Canal Pathway Grants secured in 1999 provided the means for additional Pathway sections and completion of Chesterley Park. Also in 1999. Yakima's service clubs — Lions, Kiwanis, and Rotary — became involved in the development of a sports complex at Kiwanis Park. Aided by a half million dollar grant from the state's Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation, the service organizations initiated an ambitious property acquisition project that ended with the addition of more than ten new acres on the southern border of the park. The sale of Larson Park's four ballfields to the Yakima Valley Community College provided the seed money to construct the new Kiwanis ballfields and parking lot and the long- awaited 17 -acre Kissel Park. A generous private donation resulted in the 16.000 square -foot Harman Center that opened in May 2004, along with the completion of Gailleon Park. Many things have happened since the 2006 -11 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan update. The final planning stages are complete for the development of upper Kiwanis Park, and constriction has begun. With a grant secured from state RCO funds, partnership with the Yakima School District, and donations from the Service Club Consortium, a new facility consisting of 3 softball fields, a concessions building, parking and walkways will come to life. Some development has already occurred including a Skatepark, new playground, new basketball hoops and a bathroom facility Upon completion, the Kiwanis Park/Gateway Complex will have 7 fields to attract softball and baseball teams from throughout the state and Pacific Northwest Region. Other upgrades around the city parks include smaller improvements to some of the parks including a new picnic shelter at Miller, the expansion of the grassy area at Franklin pool, and various tree - plantings at other parks. Some preliminary work has been done on replacing two bridges at Randall Park that were removed in the fall of 2010 due to safety concerns. The bridges, when replaced, will provide access to the nature area at the north of the park. A grant was secured for a portion of the William 0 Douglas Trail which extends north on 6th Avenue from Fruitvale. The remaining city portion of the trail from Davis High School has been 8 ule�mfied xm Hiei et art .. r, ued f.n the Jaltet Littman F'atlnvv vhmh mill extend n ` Avenue m :beet eat fnai McGnime_ F'm4 Climate 1al ma genetally mold mirky climate 1: yell need f.n .irtd n ieahm . L. ate.' between the vet awl mill'ore:t! a:t awl the livF ekv I3 „ vrtaln: the mealm: f „v li:tmrt :ea: m: awl pie:ent: a utiety f liveue tecteah.m 11 nnuuhe- The :e e tem 1m 1 f the F ekv I3 „ m m a. m vrtm aid Flam: e �. leiatel by the ee ieiallv ve:tem fl. f inmate an ft ..m f .m the Pacific The an nave- 4:e tn. e f then m..enue ret the a :! ale F ranee hef.n eli Aping um the 1 alma alley The ie :ulte an animal mrel age .f -.1111 f sunshine awl .md. n teteah.mthat e imely hmdetedhv e::heme tem n ptecipitnh.m o5nrter at 1 awl the at e::peueu;e- hewn v� vfall awl exheme h um tempeiae- uhieyuentl; Fnnu Pei emhei t Fehmmv the mrelaee high e lu l legtee- awl the mrelaee I. __ 1 legtee- The w e t tal vu vfall i. niche e' vino e llv awl rety Aftevu , me h.rt awl m e :4 legtee- f.n a high tempeianue _ fn .m Fine tlm .ueh August ,.' . The ILV m1 ie.udt m a +. lapel tempetanue le tease ;hen the : n e d. awl the mrelaee 1 e ` legtee- T .tal m , t: f pteciprtah.m mml — al9 x mutely niche- annually — nth ah .m l411” f m ” that falling Pei emhei th m i ugh Fehmar, The mrelaee pteciprtah.m frvm Fine tlm .ueh August m the thei haw' e a met e 114 mn l niche- pet .th A- a iegdt vieatin iegv n iel f. neatly all aeuodnual actrnme Heav y vu vpack m the m ,, , u rtmm: pt. vile- am mu f teahm vtet m all but the litee Evmter A significant mm fpmklamdc reteDvrth vhmWeymte- n : vteune Landscape 1al mmlte m the head gently :l..pme fl. 1 lam: f the .al mm milli F wet: between parallel udee- that etanab; extend easmmdfn .m the ai ale 6 tWll: A- these udee- :l ;Iv et eel the Ial maI wet rut Hm mush basalt n f.nm the elali and Am.m Sap FL r east from the mountains. the Naches River bounds the area along the North of Yakima while the Yakima River. which flows south. creates a natural barrier along the east side of the City The Naches and Yakima Rivers are only partially controlled by dikes set back from the river's edge and the meandering. braided river channels change position with almost every spring flood. The soils at the bottom lands adjacent to these river areas have slopes of less than tlu percent and consist of riverwash which varies from sandy loam to very gravelly sandy loam. Much of the urban area of Yakima and Union Gap is made up of these soils. The Soil Conservation Service reports areas with more gravel and sand are subject to occasional flooding from the rivers. The Corps of Engineers has computed flood levels for the area and predicts a 100 -year flood would be generally confined within the dikes or the freeway roadway More severe floods would inundate large portions of the low -lying areas of both Yakima and Union Gap In west Yakima. the slopes increase gradually and. while the soils there become silt loans with increased water - holding qualities. many of the orchards found here are interlaced with irrigation canals. South of Wide Hollow Creek and west of the Yakima River. the land is devoted primarily to agriculture, although residential development is increasing. Agriculture continues up the ridges until water is no longer available from the irrigation canals or until the slopes become too steep Elevations range from 950 feet on the river at Union Gap to 1.060 at the airport. and up to 2.000 and above on the ridge tops. Drainage -ways on the steeply ridged slopes run north and south and the streams of the gently sloping Valley run east and west to intercept the Yakima River Wildlife: A number of wildlife species that once inhabited the Yakima city limits and urban growth area have been displaced by modern development. agriculture. business and human population. Some natural habitats continue to exist in populated areas. including brush. grasses. and trees lining creeks. rivers. ponds and open spaces that support an appreciable number of birds. small mammals. fish and insects. Adjacent to the urban area. expansive acreages within L.T Murray and Oak Creek Wildlife areas, and the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy have been set aside to attract and support varieties of wildlife that inhabited the region prior to development. Some species. particularly elk. have exceeded population levels compared to 150 years ago Alterations to the landscape that occurred from irrigation. fencing and overgrazing have been countered with modern conservation management practices on public. non- profit and private lands. Government sponsored clean water and salmon recovery programs have helped improve habitat and enabled fish populations to increase throughout the Yakima River basin's waterways. Within Yakima's planning area. mammals and birds can be observed including rabbits. deer. coyote, beaver. hawks. eagles. quail. ducks. geese. doves. and hummingbirds. among others. Within a few minutes' drive from Yakima. recreationists can access trailheads and gateways 10 leading to state and federally owned habitats containing elk, bighorn sheep, cougar, otters, marmots, porcupine, grouse, raven, vultures and other species. Economics: Agriculture dominates the economy of the Yakima Valley and, in one way or another, affects almost everyone who lives in the area. The county is the largest producer of agricultural products in the state and ranks 16 in the nation for the value of its agricultural products in the state and ranks 16 in the nation for the value of its agricultural production and fifth in the nation for all fruit production. The county produces 75 percent of the nation's hops, nearly half the nation's supply of apples. 29 percent of the country's cherries. 42 percent of the nation's pears and 38 percent of the nation's concord grapes. Yakima County is also first in the state in its number of cattle and calves. The robust wine industry now occupies approximately 12.000 acres of premium wine grapes. Major employers in Yakima include Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital, Yakima School District, Wal -Mart, Washington State Social and Health Services, Yakima County, Del Monte Foods, Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic, Yakima Regional Medical and Cardiac Center, Yakima Training Center, and Washington Beef. Demographics: The 2010 Census listed the City of Yakima's population at 91.067 people, which is 19.222 people (or 26.7 °o) higher than the 2000 Census count of 71.845 This figure has put Yakima back into the top 10 cities in the state. Since the year 2000. 2000 2010 approximately 60 °0 of the population growth (11.556 people) Population 71.845 91.067 came by way of annexation. The rest of the new residents Average (7.666 people) can be attributed to natural population growth. Family Size 3.29 It is interesting to note that while the population has Median increased by almost 20.000 people since the last census, the Age 31.4 32.7 basic demographic characteristics of Average Family Size Owner and Median Age have seen very little change. This tells us Occupied 53.2 °o 54.1 °0 Renter that family activities in Parks are still going to be important Occupied 46.8 °0 45.900 both now and in the future. The 2011 Office of Financial Management report showed a slight increase from the 2010 Two or Census data, which increased the City population to 91.196 more races 3.9 °o 4.4 °0 The Urban Growth Area (UGA), served by the City of Hispanic 33 7 41.3 °0 Yakima and used as a broad context for this plan, includes Caucasian 59 8 °o 52.2 °o unincorporated portions of East Valley (Terrace Heights) and West Valley Union Gap is not part of the City'County UGA, but is contiguous with the Yakima City limits. The 2010 Census reports the UGA. including Union Gap, Terrace Heights, and Unincorporated West Valley, is 109.219 11 While the City of Yakima Comprehensive Parks Plan is called a five year plan in reality it is a vision for the next 20 years To keep the plan in proper perspective we must remember we are planning for people not time Since the level and quantity of park land and recreation services demanded is directly Population by Race related to the number of people demanding Total _ — 91,067 the services changes 2 or more 3,962 in both the number and composition of Other 21,216 that local population Asian/Pacific Islander 1,430 affects local government planning American Indian 1 1,838 Differences in age or cultural groups for Black or African American 1 1,556 example can create White i 1 61,065 different demands in the type of provided services Births deaths and migration drive the direction and magnitude of population change Each can change independently of the others and consequently should be considered separately The number of births minus the number of deaths is equal to the natural change and when added to migration of people yields overall population change In terms of ethnicities the census tells us a few things about the area s residents There are relatively few African Americans American Indians and Asian/Pacific Islanders among those counted in the 2010 Census All told these races comprise a little over 5% of the total population Hispanics do not appear in the Yalama's Hispanic Population Population by Race breakdown 100,000 because they are considered an 80,000 ethnicity not a separate race The 60,000 census counts Hispanics in a different category In 2010 Hispanics totaled 40,000 41 3% of the population This is up 20,000 from 33 7% in the 2000 census which 0 is a 55% increase in 10 years This 2000 2010 • increase continues a population trend Hispanics 24 213 37 587 • over the last 20 years which saw Total Population 71,845 91,067 continual increases in Yakima s 12 Hispanic population Similar increases were seen in the Yakima County Hispanic population as well Age is a very important Population by Age factor for recreation planning because interest Elderly 75+ MS 6 8% and participation m many activities is directly linked Retirees 6574 6 3% with age The 2010 census Olderworkforce 45-64 21 9% data dells us Yalnma s population as related to YoungerWorkforce 20 44 33 7% age is relatively the same as m 2000 The median students 5 19 22 8% age increased by a little Under years IIIII 86% over 1 year The age ranges didn t change a lot from 2000 either The Younger Workforce population group accounts for almost 34% of the total population Students and the Older Workforce are the 2 and 3 largest with around 22% each Education has also repeatedly been shown to have a high correlation with leisure activity The higher the educational attainment the more activities participated in and the more frequent the participation The chart below shows the educational attainments of Yakima citizens 25 and older In general when compared to the rest of the state Yakima has more citizens in the lower end of the educational scale and less m the higher end Educational Attainment for Residents Over 25 300% 250% 20 0% 15 0% 10 0% 5 0% 0 0% 9th to 12th Some Graduate or Lessthan High School Associates Bachelor's grade no College no professional 9th Grade diploma Grad degree degree degree degree YYakimaCity 14 1% 12 3% 25 5% 23 0% 6 9% 10 7% 7 5% •Yakima County 16 9% 12 5% 26 8% 21 8% 6 7% 9 0% 6 2% IS WA State 4 1% 6 2% 23 8% 25 6% 9 3% 19 9% 111% 13 Family Income Income is also tied to $200,000 or more recreation participation, $150,000 - $199,999 =7" the higher the income, $100,000 - $149,999 + the more active people $75,000 - $99 are in outdoor recreation $50,000 $74,999 1 �1 o WA State pursuits In part, income $35,000 I , also represents the $49,999 r7 Yakima City $25,000 - $34,999 1 i ability to pay for 1 $15,000 - $24,999 1 , recreation activities and $10,000- $14,999 to travel to recreation Less than $10,000 `ii 4 areas 0 0% 5 0% 10 0% 15 0% 20 0% 25 0% According to the 2010 Census, Yakima's annual pay ranks among the lowest of the state's and nation's metropolitan areas In 2010, Yakima's median family income of $43,536 was just 63% of the statewide median of $69,096 In terms of per capita income, Yakima fares only slightly better Its per capita income of $20,244 is 68% of the state's $29,420 The contrast is even more apparent in terms of poverty 16 9% of the City of Yakima's families live below the poverty level while the statewide percentage is 8 4% 2010 2012 2017 2022 2027 2032 New Census Population Population Population Population Population Additional Housing Data Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate Population Units Yakima Urban Service Area 95,437 96,064 100,867 105,910 111,206 116,766 20,702 8,281 City of Yakima 91,067 91,650 96,233 101,044 106,096 111,401 19,751 7,315 Unincor- porated WV 4,370 4,414 4,634 4,866 5,109 5,365 951 380 Union Gap Service Area 6,845 6,913 7,259 7,622 8,003 8,403 1,490 514 Terrace heights Service Area 6,937 7,006 7,357 7,725 8,111 8,516 1,510 604 Total 109,219 109,984 115,483 121,257 127,320 133,686 23,702 8,813 1 Growth rate for all service areas estimated at 1% annually 2 Persons per housing unit based on 2010 data City of Yakima 2 7 pop /du, Union Gap 2 9 pop /du, Unincorporated 2 5 pop /du 14 hima Chapter 3 — PARK INVENTORY ( ,-.,a,.,,-. a ,. I L.., This inventory includes the existing park or open space and recreation resources in the City of Yalama and surrounding vicinity This inventory is broken down by park size and includes parks m the City of Yakima along with other parks m the general vicinity COMMUNITY PARKS Community Parks are generally 20 or more acres in size with numerous facilities for active and passive recreation These parks serve the entire community and may or may not be located within the City limits While a number of the parks are less than 20 acres the amenities available attract users from all over the community not just the immediate neighborhood and are therefore included as a Community Park Ahtanum Youth Park 74 Acres (City of Umon Gap) The Ahtanum Youth Park is located to the south of the City of Yakima m Union Gap The park contains a variety of community amenities including picnic sites playgrounds and rentable buildings There are lots of recreation opportunities including soccer fields basketball courts tennis courts a 4 H challenge course horseshoe pits an outdoor equestrian area and a BMX track Chesterley Park — 312 Acres The original portion of Chesterley Park with four soccer fields restroom/storage building play equipment and picnic shelter opened in 1990 By 2004 two more soccer fields a 10 000 square WNW foot skate park and parking for 120 vehicles were added The park is located in the northwest part of the City on North 40 Avenue with easy access to Highway 12 It is in generally good ' ` condition although high amounts of volcanic ash in the soil create -- ' maintenance problems and the irrigation system is in frequent need of repair Elks Memorial Park —12 66 Acres Elks Memorial Park is located in the north /central part of the City on Hathaway and North 8 Avenues and serves as the home fields of the Yakima National Little League The City of Yakima has a use agreement with Yaluma National Little League for the use and maintenance of the Elks Memorial Park ball fields .Amenities include seven youth ball fields with dugouts and backstops a concession stand building a tether ball pole picnic tables 15 and grills a playground a picnic shelter and restroom facilities The park also includes 26 horse shoe pits Due to the high volume of visitors to the park during the little league season parking is often problematic There is some paved parking along North S Avenue on the east end of the park however the majority of the parking is a gravel strip along Hathaway Frankhn Park —17 66 Acres Franklin Park is located at South 21s Avenue and Tieton Dnve in the central part of the City The park lies adjacent to Franklin Middle School to the east and the Yakima Valley Museum to the South Park amenities include picnic tables and galls restrooms six tennis courts and an outdoor swimming pool with water slides and a shallow water training pool The pool at Franklin Park is the City s only outdoor swimming pool In 2009 the fence around the pool was extended to the south to incorporate additional area In 2011 the fence in the northern s area of the pool was extended — w to provide additional grassy - area for pool patrons As a result of this expansion an aged playground facility that - I '— " was prone to graffiti and vandalism due to its location was removed It is anticipated that a new playground will be ;". installed but funding has not - been secured .Also in 2011 - Sunnse Rotary of Yakima approached the City Parks and Recreation staff with a proposal to remove the old picnic shelter and replace it with a new state of the art shelter The size of the old shelter (21X21 feet) made usefulness difficult The new picnic shelter (303C40 feet) is much more versatile Without the help of Sunrise Rotary such a project would have been very difficult to undertake Parking is provided at the south end of the site but at times is inadequate depending on activities at the park and museum Kissel Park —17 Acres Kissel Park is located in the south central part of the City on Mead Avenue Kissel park includes 12 tennis courts a restroom/storage building picnic shelter basketball courts 0 6 mile asphalt pathway play equipment and 80 parking spaces The property was graded into a gently rolling landscape with a large flat area toward the street on its northern border Kissel Park is surrounded primarily by single family residences The park amenities make it a viable asset to the immediate neighborhood and the community as a whole 16 Knvams Park — 34 3 Acres Kiwanis Park is located at Fair Avenue and East Maple Street on the East side of the City Its numerous amenities and visibility from I 82 make Kiwanis Park one of the highest use parks in the city The eastern portion of Kiwanis Park includes the Gateway Complex which includes 5 lighted softball fields with scoreboards a concessionslrestroom building play equipment and plenty of seating area for patrons including bleachers and grassy areas The Gateway Complex attracts aik i Ili _ 411 many users from both inside and outside the City m the form of leagues and tournaments The western portion of Kiwanis Park is home to a brand new skate park restroom facility basketball ], courts volleyball court and playground i — This area also includes the Incinerator Building which was constructed in 1936 In 2007 the City acquired several parcels along Fair Avenue that will become part of Kiwanis Park There is an on going development plan for the central and northwesterly portions of the park which will include three new state of the art lighted softball fields a concessionfrestroom building and additional parking The new fields will be separated from the Gateway Complex by an existing 1 8 acre pond It is anticipated that upon completion of these new fields the Kiwanis Park/Gateway Center complex will be one of the premier softball complexes in Washington State Construction of the new fields is underway with a target completion date of spring/summer 2012 The grass will take some time to grow so the fields won t actually be playable until the 2013 season Perry Soccer Complex -15 Acres The Perry Soccer Complex is located near 16 And Washington Avenues The land is leased from Perry Technical College and contains six fields Portable goals allow the various users to change field sizes so both children and adult leagues can utilize the fields The fields are maintained by Parks and Recreation In 2011 Perry Technical College paved the existing gravel parking lot and constructed an asphalt walkway going from the parking lot to the school Randall Park — 40 24 Acres Randall Park is located at South 48 and West Viola Avenues in the southwestern area of the City The majority of the Park lies to the north of Wide Hollow Creek there are 5 acres of undeveloped land to the south Randall Park is pnmarily a passive park which includes many acres of green space walking trails and a nature area on the north part of the park The nature area includes a duck pond and nature trails Two bndges which link the walking trails with the 17 rest of the park were demolished in the fall of 2010 due to safety concerns Those badges will be replaced in 2011 and 2012 to re 4 establish access The park also includes :rA a gazebo playground basketball courts `u! " picnic tables and gnlls and a restroom facility Randall Park is a popular destination for the immediate neighborhood and resident nature lovers i alike Randall Park is the potential site for a new Disc Golf course in the City A local interest has been presented and le l' a plan is currently in the works to - discuss this further Sarg Hubbard Park — 28 Acres Sarg Hubbard Park is owned by the City of Yakima but operated and maintained by the Yakima Greenway Foundation The park includes a playground area picnic shelter nature area with observation tower fishing ponds with piers fitness stations and outdoor amphitheater with a stage large green spaces and connections to the Greenway Path The park also includes a visitor center and the offices for the Greenway Foundation Sarg Hubbard Park attracts numerous users from in and outside the City West Valley Community Park — 26 2 Acres West Valley Community Park is located adjacent to West Valley Middle and Junior High Schools with access off of South 80 Avenue The park property was transferred from Yakima County to the City in 2008 Amenities at the park include playground areas a soccer field nature trails paved pathways green space a sand volleyball court horseshoe pits and a multi use court There are two tennis courts that are in disrepair at the east end of the park The area of these courts is being transferred to West Valley Middle School to accommodate their new athletic field project Yakima Greenway The Greenway is a protected green belt along the Yakima River extending from Union Gap north to the Selah Gap and then west along the Naches River to the North 40 Avenue exit Dedicated to conservation and recreation the Greenway connects recreation areas four boat landings paths three large parks two fishing lakes and ponds water access locations and natural areas The ten mile pathway links the Noel and Jewett Pathways and the Sunrise Rotary Park/McGuire s Children s Playground The popular pathway is accessible from a number of points along its route 18 Yakima Area Arboretum The Arboretum is located at the intersection of Interstate 82 and Nob Hill Boulevard and contains eleven acres of natural riparian wetland and twenty nine acres of exotic woody plants. The Arboretum has a Japanese Garden, a Trees of Washington exhibit, bird sanctuary, butterfly garden. Jewett Pond, walking paths and a parking area. The Jewett Interpretive Center houses a gift shop, a meeting/banquet room and Yakima Valley's only horticultural library The property is owned by the City of Yakima by managed by a non - profit organization. The Parks and Recreation Division supports the Arboretum by providing weekly mowing at no cost. Yakima Sportsman State Park Sportsman Park was created in 1940 by the Yakima Sportsman Association to promote game management and the preservation of natural resources. It lies on the Yakima River floodplain and is an irrigated green zone in an otherwise desert environment. It has a large number of mature shade trees and a wealth of wildlife. State funding for parks such as this has been reduced in recent years and the future of this park is unknown at this time. NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS Neighborhood Parks are generally 3 or more acres in size with smaller scale areas for active and passive recreation. These parks serve their immediate neighborhoods and certain destination users. Gardner Park — 9.13 Acres Located at Pierce St and Cornell Avenue, Gardner Park has historically served as both a neighborhood park with picnic tables and grills, restroom, sand volleyball court and trees and as a community park with its two softball fields and a concession stand. The play equipment was updated in 1997 The restroom needs renovation or replacement. Lighting the ballfields would increase their usability significantly and would add to Gardner's attractiveness as a community park. The unpaved parking areas do not meet City codes and need improvement as well as expansion. The park lies next to a city elementary school and is used by the school for sports activities. Additional needed improvements include replacement tree plantings, permanent picnic tables and benches, a multi -use outdoor court and a picnic shelter In 2005, however, the Yakima School District and the City of Yakima began preliminary discussions about the possibility of converting the ballfields into a girls fastpitch complex. In early 2006, the school district implemented $100.000 in improvements to the fields and restroom to provide home fields for the district's girls fastpitch program. 19 Gilbert Park - 11 62 Acres Gilbert Park is located on Lincoln Avenue at North 49 Avenue and is also home to the Allied Arts of Yakima building Park amenities include expanses of grassy ' w area mature trees picnic tables and T a labyrinth Gilbert Park is popular MM with immediate neighborhood y" -P residents and city wide users as a result of the Allied Arts building The limited park amenities are a result of use restrictions placed on _ =g: _ _ - — - the park by its creators Gilbert Park s use was intended and always will be for passive recreation uses Larson Park - 4 4 Acres Larson Park is located adjacent to Yakima Valley Community College The primary users are from the immediate neighborhood and the college .Amenities include a picnic shelter mature shade trees open space and a restroom facility Lions Pool and Park - 4 38 Acres Lions Pool and Park is located west of the downtown on South 5 Avenue and Pine and is the site of the City s only indoor swimming pool The 25 yard pool is used year -round for a variety of aquatic programs including school district swim activities and senior use The park provides picnic tables and grills playground equipment six tennis courts four horseshoe pits and a spray pool Martin Luther Km g Jr Park - 4 01 Acres Martin Luther King Jr Park is located at South 9 and East Beech Streets next to Washington Middle School The park is mostly passive and provides picnic tables and grills playground equipment two basketball courts and two tennis courts The park also provides shade trees and green space for the school and neighborhood Miller Park - 3 96 Acres Miller Park is located north of the downtown area at North 4 Street and East `E' Street Miller park provides picnic tables and gnlls bocce ball court two horseshoe pits volleyball court four basketball courts and a water spray feature 20 Milroy Park — 3.63 Acres Milroy Park is located at North 16 and Lincoln Avenues, west of downtown in one of Yakima's most densely populated areas. The park is characterized by mature shade trees and provides a variety of amenities including picnic tables and grills, playground equipment, volleyball courts, three horseshoe pits, a tether ball pole and restrooms. Southeast Community Park — 3.63 Acres The Southeast Community Park is located at South 8th Street and East Arlington Avenue, next to the Southeast Community Center The park provides playground equipment, picnic tables, a grill and a volleyball court. nMINI- PARKS Mini -Parks are generally less than 3 acres in size and mostly passive in nature. These small parks serve a small number of vicinity users. Cherry Park — 0.49 Acres Cherry Park is located at North 4th Avenue and Cherry Street. The park contains play equipment, one permanent picnic table and grill, and several portable picnic tables. The park is surrounded by single and multi-family housing. McGuinness Park — 1.91 Acres McGuinness Park is located at North 14 and Swan Avenues in a densely populated neighborhood. The park includes a handicap accessible picnic shelter, play equipment, a basketball court, picnic tables and grills, and over 75 trees. McGuinness Park serves as the eastern terminus of the Powerhouse Canal Pathway Wear and tear on this park has been extreme as vandals regularly inflict damage on equipment and vegetation. Portia Park — 0.52 Acres Portia Park is a small triangular pocket park west of downtown at Yakima and 12 Avenues. Because of its location. Portia Park provides visual interest and green space to the neighborhood. The park contains mature shade trees and lawn with some picnic tables. Rosalma Garden Club Park — 0.31 Acres The Rosalma Garden Club Park is located at the southeast corner of the Tieton Drive and South 16 Avenue intersection. This small triangular shaped park provides green space, mature plantings and stone benches. Raymond Park — 2.35 Acres Raymond Park is located at South 1st and Arlington Avenues with residential neighborhoods to the west and an industrial area to the east. The park is mostly a passive park with picnic tables, a 21 grill, and trees and open space. An aged playground was removed. It is anticipated that a new playground will be constructed when funds allow South 2 " Park — 0.52 Acres A small triangular park located at South 2 and Race Streets, South 2 Park is used primarily as a lunch site or place for neighbors to gather The park has no facilities other than picnic tables and a grill but provides much needed public green space in the largely commercial neighborhood. Summitview Park — 0.76 Acres Summitview Park is a small rectangular pocket park located at the intersection of Summitview and 11 Avenues. Due to the generosity of a descendent of the park's original owners. Summitview Park is well equipped with picnic tables. The park provides mature shade trees and green space. Sunrise Rotary Park — 3.63 Acres The Yakima Greenway Foundation operates and maintains this park which is north of Terrace Heights Drive on the Greenway Pathway It is equipped with picnic areas, drinking fountain, toilets, a labyrinth, and the McGuire Community Playground. Tieton Terrace Park — 0.42 Acres Tieton Terrace Park is a small pocket park located at the intersection of South 26 Avenue and West Walnut Street. Developed facilities are limited to picnic tables, a park bench and a swing set. GREENWAY /PATHWAY Greenways are landscaped boulevards with pedestrian facilities suitable for passive recreation or linear stretches of vegetation or natural features which serve as connectors or wildlife corridors. Fairbrook Park — 2.05 Acres Fairbrook Park consists of four individual open green space islands with trees that are located within the Fairbrook Park residential neighborhood, south of Nob Hill and north of Randall Park. There are no park amenities. Minimal future development may include xeriscaping one of the islands. Naches Parkway — 5.86 Acres Located on North and South Naches Avenue, the Naches Parkway is a 15.5 block long parkway of center planting islands. The oldest of the City's park properties, the parkway stretches from "I" Street to Race Street and crosses through the downtown at Yakima Avenue. The parkway is covered with lawn for all of its length except for the Hatfield block between Yakima Avenue and 22 "A" Street which has brick paving and picnic tables. Most notably, the parkway contains stands of mature shade trees including sycamore, silver maple, red maple, oak and crab apple trees. Many of the trees are almost 100 years old and the City has begun selective replacement with new red oaks and red maples. One of Yakima's few public statues — a depiction of Spanish - American War Col. John J Weisenburger — is located on the first parkway island south of Yakima Avenue. North -1-4 Avenue Park — 0.69 Acres North 44 Avenue Park is an open space area providing neighborhood access via a pathway from Uplands Way to Lincoln Avenue. The green space provides an asphalt pathway and shade trees. Powerhouse Canal Pathway — 8.0 Acres The first two sections of the Powerhouse Canal Pathway were constructed in 1996 along the irrigation canal right -of -way Funding secured in 1999 continued the pathway through Chesterley Park to River Road while transportation enhancement grant funding awarded to Parks and Recreation in 2000 allowed construction of three additional sections. McGuinness Park southwest to 16 Avenue. 16 to 20 Avenues, and Englewood to Lincoln Avenue. The property includes automatic irrigation, park benches and landscaping. The pathway extends 2.45 miles from 40 Avenue and River Road on the west to McGuinness Park on the east. The well - used pathway accommodates pedestrian and other non - motorized forms of transportation and offers safe off - street passage in portions of the City lacking in sidewalks. South 6th Avenue Parkway — 0.17 Acres A block -long median parkway with trees. South 6th Avenue Parkway separates 6th Avenue's northbound and southbound traffic in between Tieton Drive and Division Street. Walter Ortman Parkway — 0.70 Acres The Walter Ortman Parkway is located on Willow Street between North 10 and North 6th Avenues. The four block long median parkway includes grass, ornamental trees, and picnic tables. A grant award will allow us to put in an asphalt pathway which will go along the existing aligmnent in Willow and connect through McGuinness Park to the Powerhouse Canal Pathway SPECIAL USE PROPERTY Central Business District The Central Business District (CBD) is not a park, but the downtown area does contain a variety of planting areas that are maintained by the Committee for Downtown Yakima. The CBD contains a small park on the southeast corner of Yakima Avenue and 2" Street, Millennium Plaza on 3 Street across from the Capitol Theater, and the new Performance Park on North 2" and "A" Streets. The CBD is bordered by Front Street on the west, Lincoln Avenue on the north, 23 Naches Avenue on the east and Walnut Avenue on the south In addition to annual beautification and maintenance needs the CBD has a number of trees that have been removed and replaced buckled sidewalks in need of repair and failing irrigation systems Fisher Golf Course —18 2 Acres Fisher Golf Course is a 9 hole par 3 course located on 40 Avenue across from Eisenhower High School Operated and maintained by the Parks and Recreation Division the beautifully landscaped and maintained course is well used and has a starter house putting green small maintenance building and a practice driving net Harlan Landing — 4 Acres Part of the Greenway system Harlan Landing is located west of Rest Haven Road off I 82 Its facilities include a boat ramp volleyball court picnic area fishing piers restrooms and parking Harman Center at Gailleon Park — 16,000 Square Feet The Harman Center located at 65 and Summitview was constructed by a private foundation and donated to the City and opened in 2004 The center is dominated by a 1 200 square -foot lounge with a wide stone fireplace that reaches to the top of the 18 -foot ceiling — The lounge accommodates `t 3 ■ areas for visiting reading television viewing and coffee In addition the _- center has classrooms for arts and crafts and other - .44,r. activities a fitness room computer lab billiards ' ' ' • room and offices for staff - -radr ?S‘-' vy"" There is a multi- purpose 4'; room with attached commercial kitchen that is available for rentals The center has been heavily used by seniors for a wide range of self improvement leisure and social activities .An electronic changing message sign was added in 2007 Seniors Inc plays a large part in helping with the operation of the Harman Center 1VEller Park Activity Center (YPAL) Located at 602 North 4 Street the Miller Park Activity Center was Yakima s original senior center The center is adjacent to Miller Park and provides a full commercial kitchen pool tables 24 classrooms, and a multipurpose room. The building is used by the Yakima Police Athletic League. Southeast Community Center The Southeast Community is located at Southeast Community Park. The center is operated by the Yakima Valley OIC (Opportunities Industrialization Center). The facility contains large and small meeting rooms and offices, a kitchen and dining area, reception area, gym with a stage, and a small library outreach branch. The center also has parking lots located on the north and south ends of the facility Tahoma Cemetery Located along South 24 Avenue, Tahoma Cemetery is the City's oldest cemetery with graves dating back to 1867 Its landscape is dominated by mature silver maples, a mausoleum and a Veteran's section with a memorial monument. Its single building houses an office and a maintenance shop The cemetery is in relatively good condition with the exception of its interior roads and certain aging or diseased trees. SCHOOL FACILITIES Yakima School District: The Yakima School District's facilities represent a considerable indoor and outdoor recreational asset for the community In addition. Union Gap, East Valley, West Valley schools and Yakima Valley Community College also lie within or overlap Yakima's urban planning area. Among them, they provide a sizable inventory of basketball,'volleyball courts and baseball, softball, t -ball, soccer, track, football, multipurpose fields and meeting rooms. With 14 elementary schools, four middle schools and two high schools. Yakima School District has the most extensive inventory facilities. Athletic interests are served by following facilities. • Zaepfel Stadium, a semi -pro quality stadium/track with seating for 5.000 spectators. • Two semi -pro quality soccer fields (Davis and Eisenhower High Schools). • Four combination semi -pro football, soccer fields with bleacher seating (Franklin. Lewis and Clark. Washington and Wilson Middle Schools). • Two recreational grade soccer fields (Lewis and Clark and Stanton schools). • Three tracks. • One semi -pro quality baseball field with permanent dugouts and seating for 500 • Ten baseball fields including one four -plex and one two -plea. • Three softball fields. • Twenty -four hardwood- floored gymnasiums ranging in size from one large enough to accommodate 3.200 spectators to two small gyms with no spectator seating at all. Collectively, the gyms are able to accommodate 34 volleyball courts or 22 basketball courts. • Fifteen playfields. 25 In addition. Yakima School District has a large inventory of general and specialized classrooms in addition to the following: • Ten multi-purpose rooms, four of which have stages. • Four cafeterias, commons with seating capacities ranging from 250 to 900 • A round - theater meeting room which seats 250. • A Little Theater which seats 375 • A large auditorium with 1500 seats. Yakima Parks and Recreation and Yakima School District have a long-running agreement to share use of each other's facilities and the City is dependent upon the School District's facilities — especially indoor — to run its recreation programs. In turn, the School District depends on City facilities for its aquatics, girls' fastpitch and tennis programs to a large extent and its cross country, track and middle school soccer programs to a lesser extent. It is anticipated that the City and the School District will continue their joint use of facilities to benefit public and recreational needs. One persistent difficulty for Parks and Recreation, however, is the inherent unreliability of scheduling school facilities, particularly gymnasiums, on a regular basis. School functions such as plays, concerts or graduations occur throughout the school year and take precedence over Parks and Recreation programs. It becomes difficult to generate reliable basketball or volleyball league schedules due to unexpected cancellations of gym time. As population growth continues to occur, demand for these facilities will increase and, most likely, exacerbate scheduling difficulties. ITC(' Yakima Valley Community College owns Parker Field, a semi -pro baseball field with permanent dugouts, seating for 2000, concession stands and storage. The field is in excellent condition and used for regional and statewide American Legion events. The college has also retained Dunbar Field for its women's fastpitch program: property it acquired during the late 1990's from Parks and Recreation. Other YVCC facilities include a weight room, fitness facility, wrestling room and various classrooms West Valley School District: Annexations completed since the previous Comprehensive Plan update have brought in a larger portion of the West Valley School District. Sitting adjacent to West Valley Neighborhood Park, the West Valley Middle and Junior High School is now within the Yakima City Limits. A recent project at the Middle,'Junior High School added two softball fields and a soccer field to their complex which includes a baseball field, softball field and football soccer field. 26 THE ARTS The Allied Arts Council of Yakima Valley owns and operates a multipurpose arts facility located at Gilbert Park in West Yakima. Open to the public, the Warehouse, as it is called, is a renovated and remodeled fruit warehouse that houses a 232 -seat theater, basement dance studio /reception room, community conference room, board meeting room, arts gallery and classroom. The Allied Arts Council operates a number of programs including a family and middle school theater series, concert series, school and summer ArtsVan, gallery exhibits, weekend workshops, summer theater and arts. In 1999. Allied Arts added Adventures in Growth and Enrichment (AGE) for senior adults. The Capitol Theatre is a fully furnished and equipped theater in downtown Yakima with a year - round program of performing arts including a five event Broadway series, major concerts and special events. Carefully restored to its 1920's splendor following a disastrous fire in 1975, it is home now to the nationally recognized Yakima Symphony Orchestra which presents a concert series each year Active over 130 days per year, the theater's annual attendance exceeds 85.000 The Capitol Theatre recently opened its 4th Street Theatre which is a smaller venue for rental and productions. The Larson Gallery on the campus of Yakima Valley Community College exhibits contemporary art by local, regional and national artists in a unique and spacious setting. The gallery is free and open Tuesdays through Saturdays and, in addition to its exhibits, sponsors artist workshops and special events. The Yakima Valley museum clu Yakima's natural, cultural, pioneer and agricultural history Among its exhibits are a collection of horse drawn vehicles, a reconstruction of Supreme Court Justice William 0 Douglas' office, the Children's Underground Hands -On Activity Center, a 1930's art deco soda fountain and a collection of historic neon advertising signs. The museum also operates the H. M. Gilbert Homeplace. a late Victorian home representative of the turn -of -the- century farmhouse built in the Yakima Valley A restored log cabin, a railroad exhibit and a trapper's cabin are among the 23 buildings on the 15 -acre Central Washington Agricultural museum. Located in Union Gap, the agricultural museum has an extensive collection of antique farm machinery and implements. Special attractions include an operating fruit- packing line, blacksmith shop and stationary diesel engine collection. CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS YMCA: Child care and early childhood programs, indoor swimming pool, multi- purpose facility with fitness machines, free weight room, racquetball courts, two gymnasiums, locker rooms, indoor running track, youth activities room, several meeting rooms and Camp Dudley Retreat 27 Center in the Cascades. The Y\VCA focuses its resources on support services for women and children including legal and crisis services. Yakima Athletic Club: A full- service fitness club with training rooms. racquetball courts. free weight areas. locker rooms. year -round swimming pool. sport courts. four tennis courts and refreslunent bar Yakima National Little League: A non - profit baseball organization for youth ages eight through 17 Approximately 70 teams with a total of over 900 players annually The season runs from April through October at the City's Elks Park youth baseball fields. Yakima Youth /American Legion Baseball: A non - profit youth baseball organization comprised of three different leagues. "Babe Ruth' (ages 13 through 15). Junior Legion (ages 16 and 17) and Senior Legion (ages 17 and 18). The season runs June through September and with division. department and regional championship games on Yakima Valley Community College's Parker Field. Davis. Ike and Lewis and Clark school fields. Greater Yakima Girls Softball Association: A non - profit girl's fast pitch organization for girls up to 18 years of age. Gaines are currently played at Selah's Carlon Park and the season runs from May through the end of June with tournaments in early July It is anticipated that games could occur at the new Kiwanis Park ballfields once they are completed. Grid Kids Football: Structured youth football to youth ages 9 through 12 from Grandview to Naches. The season starts in mid- August and runs into the fall with eight regular season games plus playoffs. Practices are held at the local middle schools and junior highs. AAU Basketball: Youth basketball program with approximately 2.700 second -grade through high school participants. The season nuns October through July Yakima Youth Soccer Association: A non- profit sports association that organizes and coordinates recreational and competitive soccer leagues and tournaments for youth ages six to 19 Teams play both spring and fall. The YYSA is currently raising funds for a proposed 13- field complex at 91 and Wide Hollow Yakima Adult Soccer: A non- profit adult soccer association that organizes and coordinates soccer leagues and tournaments for adult men's. women's and coed teams. Teams play both spring and fall. La Liga Mexicana: A non - profit soccer association that organizes soccer leagues and tournaments for mostly Hispanic male players. Teams play throughout the spring and fall. 28 Team Yakima: A competitive Yakima organization for volleyball enthusiasts ten to 19 years old divided into developmental, competitive and elite teams. Its team participants play winter and spring. Yakima Tennis Club: Offers private and group tennis lessons to both youth and adults. The club holds many indoor (October through March) and outdoor (April through September) leagues and tournaments during the year for both youth and adults. They also host family events such as Calcutta Family Night, an Easter Egg Hunt, and Halloween Family Night. Yakima Valley Community Tennis Club: An organization for people who love the sport of tennis for its own sake. Committed to providing recreational tennis and quality instruction for all ages at an affordable price using the City's Kissel Park tennis courts. Endorsed by the USTA. Cascadians: Provides opportunities for safe and informed non- motorized outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain climbing, back - packing, climbing, bicycling, snow- shoeing and cross - country skiing. Cascadians also work for the preservation of the environment. They meet monthly and have approximately 300 to 400 members. Chinook Cycle Club: This is a non - profit organization of approximately 100 members that organizes activities for bicyclists. Activities include fitness riding, recreational rides and sanctified races. Mount Adams Bicycle Club: A recreational organization for local cyclists of all ages. In addition to weekly bike rides, it sponsors half a dozen longer rides throughout the summer months. YAC Swimming: a non- profit swim team using the Yakima Athletic Club to provide competitive swimming instruction through competition for all ages (five through college) and abilities in a goal - oriented environment. Yakima Family YMCA Swim Team: Fast - paced, highly motivated and enthusiastic year -round swim team open to all swimmers. Qualified coaches with individualized attention. Yakima Valley Society of Artists: Valley artists join forces for exhibitions at the Central Washington State Fair and Arboretum, awards banquets, workshops and scholarships. Boy Scouts of America: Citizenship training, character development and personal fitness for boys ages six to 18 and young men and women 14 to 21 Programs include Tiger Cubs (first graders). Cub Scouting (second to fifth grade). Boy Scouting (sixth through 12th grade). Varsity Scouting (eighth through 12th grade and Exploring (high school). 29 Girl Scouts (Mid- Columbia Council): Contemporary leadership program for girls five through 17 Emphasizes character, conduct, patriotism and service Deepens awareness of self and others, builds self - esteem and increases the ability of girls to succeed and impact the community 4 -H Clubs: Educational, recreational and career exploration programs with an emphasis on citizenship and conservation Activities include fair, contests, meetings and special activities HEALTH CARE AGENCIES Memorial Hospital: Current programs include those with a safety and wellness focus for children of all ages, monthly forums and weekly programs for seniors and fitness classes for all age groups The off - campus Children's Village, opened in 1997, consolidates a variety of children's services and the North Star Cancer Center houses a complete cancer care unit with traditional and alternative options for treatment Memorial Hospital recently completed its application with the City to become an Institutional Overlay /Master Planned Development The development plan calls for a closed- campus and anticipates future development over the next 30+ years In recent years, Memorial has come to represent state -of -the -art, quality -of -life health care services, such as the addition of the award - winning Children's Village facility, world -class cancer care available at North Star Lodge, the comprehensive occupational and return-to- function services available at The Springs or 'Ohana, Memorial's Mammography and women's health care center Whatever comes to mind, hopefully it is far more than the main building at 2811 Tieton Drive Through innovative community collaborations, Memorial has built a network of support encompassing primary health care and health education that's second to none for a community of our size Whenever you think of Memorial, we hope you'll see us as a committed member of the community for past, present and future generations of Yakima Valley's residents (www yakimamemorial org) Yakima Regional Medical Center: Nationally recognized in the treatment of heart attacks and heart disease, Yakima Regional Medical and Cardiac Center's accredited Chest Pam Center offers Central Washington's most advanced technology for elective angioplasty and open heart surgery The hospital's imaging technology, including the valley's only 64 -slice CT scanner, providing the highest quality images available, and state -of -the -art Siemens Avanto 1 5T, enables patients to schedule advanced MRI, CT and nuclear imaging procedures here in Central Washington without sacrificing image quality Yakima Regional's CARF - accredited inpatient 30 rehabilitation program is ranked in the Top 10% of the nation, and for patients suffering with sleep disorders, Yakima Regional's Accredited Sleep Disorder Center is the only hospital -based program that goes beyond treating sleep apnea to include all sleep disorders Yakima Regional shares Level III trauma center coverage, and provides a full complement of medical services, including advanced neurosurgical procedures, home health and hospice, same day surgery, and the very latest in technology advancement in mammography and women's breast health services (www vakimaregional corn) COMMERCIAL RESOURCES Bowling: The area has several bowling establishments Eagle Lanes, Minda Lanes, Nob Hill Bowling and Valley Lanes Gymnastics Plus: Year - around instruction to both children and adults in gymnastics and cheerleadmg Health and Fitness: Various programs are available at Keepin' it Fit, Gold's Gym, Curves, West Valley Fitness, Anytime Fitness and Yakima Athletic Club Martial Arts: Yakima has several commercial schools of martial arts including Kempo Tae Kwon Do, Pro - Action Martial Arts and Yakima School of Karate Skating, roller: Skateland Fun Center has equipment rental, a beginner area, outdoor skate patio and full -sized rink Skating, ice: Yakima Ice Arena has public and private sessions, hockey club, figure skating and broom ball Open November to March PUBLIC GOLF COURSES Suntides Golf Course (4 miles west of Yakima at 231 Pence Road): Pubhc 18 -hole, par 70 golf course with cafe, pro shop, cart rentals, water hazards, drivmg range, putting course and lessons Apple Tree Golf Course (8804 Occidental Avenue): Challenging public 18 -hole, par 72 golf course with restaurant, pro shop, drivmg range, sand bunker, 11,000- square -foot putting green, signature apple- shaped hole, and lessons Ranked among the top ten courses in the Northwest Westwood Golf Course (6408 Tieton Drive): Public 9 -hole, par 35 course with covered driving range, cart and club rentals Open year round, weather permitting 31 River Ridge Golf Course (295 Golf Course Loop, Selah): Public 9 -hole, par 31 course in natural setting. Restaurant, club house, pro shop, four -acre setting and bridges, club and cart rentals. PROFESSIONAL SPORTS Yakima Bears: Minor league baseball team established in 1990 and affiliated with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Plays 38 home games annually June through Labor Day at the Yakima County Stadium on the fairgrounds. Affordable admission. 32 Vilna Chapter 4 — NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES This chapter builds on the inventory provided m Chapter 3 In this chapter we identify needs and opportunities for each park and identify future projects The City is broken up into Planning Areas which are correspondent with Census Tract boundaries The data provided herein displays the location of Parks within each Planning area along with basic population and density data Responses to the survey mailed out for the purposes of this plan provided some general direction for the future Participants indicated general preferences for the following • GreenwaysfPathways • Neighborhood Parks (3 10 acres) • Open Spaces • Spray Park on West side of town • Playgrounds Plannmg Area 1 Census Tract 1 (760 acres) \ ` Largely commercial with areas of residential and industrial It is composed of much of the '*1 downtown area v ies ai er Year Population Density 4 070 1 1,1 :� : ����. 2000 2 822 el iti 4 1 2010 3 095 4 1 n ta Oat Naches Parkway 10 � _ \•:' • Tree lmed parkway \ • Picnic Tables *•o • Benches Future Needs • Replace broken sidewalk sections /ramps • Cut down and replace — dead/problem trees • Tie in with future Boise Cascade Mill Development Millennium Plaza Performance Park (County) • Fountains • Picnic Tables • Artistic Displays 33 South 2n St • Gnll • Picic Tables Planning Area 2 Census Tract 2 (560 acres) Mostly residential and commercial, with scattered industrial uses throughout The vacant Boise Cascade Mill Property hes on the eastern end of Planning Area 2 Year Population Density 2000 5,374 9 6 2010 5,553 9 9 Miller Park (23) • Playground • New Picmc Shelter • Picmc Tables • Horseshoe Pits • ■ • Outdoor Basketball , Courts I P • Volleyball Sand Pit • Grills 111311 • Bocce Ball court MI* • Water Playground/Spray ` Park � Future Needs '�.�� • New Sign 110 * a • Renovate Old Pool '• 011001 Buuldrng • 10 School Facilities Barge - Lmcoln Elementary (1) • Outdoor basketball court • Indoor volleyball/basketball court • Two multi- purpose fields • Soccer field • Gymnasium • Playground 34 Planning Area 3 Census Tract 3 (907 • Expand Skatepark acres) • Remove bleacher pads on fields Composed of light industrial uses along the 1 -3 highway, commercial uses towards the west • Remove trees on fields 1 -3 and east, and transit to residential • Add permanent tables and toward the south benches Year Population Density Elks Memonal Park (6) 2000 3,905 4 3 • Six youth baseball fields 2010 4,521 5 0 • Storage /Concessions Building 4� Fes , 1 V RIV \ M_ 1 1 1 1 1 1.9 34 Miff A '"1. 39 ' 36 91 • 26 horseshoe pits Chesterlev Park (4) • Playground • Six soccer fields • Tether Ball Pole • Picnic Shelter • Parking — paved and unpaved • Playground • Restroom • Pathway • Picnic Shelter • Restroomistorage building • Picnic Tables • Skatepark • Gnlls • Picnic Tables • Bleachers • Gnlls Future Needs • Parking • Upgrade power to Future Needs storage /concession building • New Sign • Run power to sconng buildings 35 • Demo Yellow Field Future Needs • Upgrade fence sechons as • Permanent benches along needed/Replace outfield fence on pathway Green Field • Landscape pathway from 20 to • New Sign 16 Avenues • Upgrade Parking Lot • Add workout stations • Remove oldrestroom building School Facilities Powerhouse Canal Pathway EPICIDiscovery Lab (35/36) • Asphalt Pathway • Four baseball fields which double as • Park Benches a soccer practice field Plannmg Area 4 Census Tract 4 (2,444 acres) Dominated by single family residential uses with small commercial nodes throughout Year Population Density 2000 6 543 2 7 2010 7 423 3 0 Gilbert Park ( 13) • Parking • Open Space Future Needs • Picnic Tables • Replace picnic tables as needed • Labyrinth • New Sign O \sip CI Irse ? pity r ^ r:�� C �M a . : 1111 MEttt la 36 • Restripe Parking Lot • Replace trees as needed • Replace Parking Lot Lights • Tree pruning and replacem ent School Facilities Gilbert Elementary School (5) North 44 Avenue Parkway (25) • Two soccer fields • Asphalt Walkway • Gymnasium • Shade Trees • Playground Future Needs • Outdoor basketball courts • Grind/Overlay asphalt path • T ball fields Plannmg Area 5 Census Tract 5 (437 acres) Mostly residential with commercial uses along arterial streets • 7 - L I II F is Year Population Density 2000 5 011 11 5 2010 5 202 11 5 Powerhouse Canal Pathway • Landscape pathway from 20 to • Asphalt Pathway 16 Avenues • Park Benches • Add workout stations Future Needs • Perm anent bench es along School Facilities pathway Robertson Elementary School (4) 37 • Outdoor basketball count • Gymnasium • Playground • One soccer field • Four t -ball fields • One multi -use field Planning Area 6 Census Tract 6 (234 acres) Largely medium and lugh- density residential uses, with some commercial and mdustnal uses further north One of the highest density areas of the City Year Population Density 2000 6,485 27 7 2010 6,953 30 0 r . , � — Milroy Park (24) r °,` • Playground . — –. – `` • Swings I 416: 1 r I ` 31 • Horseshoe pits (remove) • Picmc Tables W _I • Restrooms I • Volleyball Court 22- , _ � 7■ y I • Tether Ball Pole - • Gnlls I I _ L.' • Parking 1 Future Needs 11 _ • Re -stnpe parking lot • New sign 1 2 41 • New lights I _ • Replace dnnknng fountain • Replace bathroom structure Cherry Park (3) • Replace swings • Playground Equipment McGuinness Park (22) • Picmc Tables • Gnll • Picmc Shelter • Playground Equipment • Swings • Basketball Court Future Needs • Picmc Tables • Replace Playground Equipment • Prune/Replace Trees • Gnlls • Bike racks • New Park Sign • park Benches 38 Future Needs • Landscape pathway from 20 to • Replace playground equipment 16 Avenues • New sign • Add workout stations • New lights • Redo planters around trees Walter Ortman Parkway • Re surface basketball court • Picnic Table • Replace fence Future Needs • Exercise Equipment • Continue trail to the east along • Umbrellas for spray ground users Willow Street • Tree removal/pruning School Facilities Powerhouse Canal Pathway Garfield Elementary School (2) • Asphalt Pathway • Outdoor basketball court • Park Benches • Two t ball fields Future Needs • Two multi use play fields • Perm anent bench es along • Gymnasium pathway • Playground Plannmg Area 7 Census Tract 7 (391 acres) Mostly single - family and two - family residential with commercial uses along arterial streets and a central area zoned for office type uses Year Population Density 2000 6 684 17 1 2010 7 072 18 1 Larson Park (18) • Picnic Shelter rmic • Picnic Tables r • Horseshoe Pits a p pal:As �� ' • Parking on street �Ei *,t, • Grills C �,• •'' � 0r �. • Restroom Building • Swings I �� .I • Monkey Bars ��•� • Asphalt Walkway 11�����I Future Needs I� ������� , „C►''�, • New Sign IMF . 18 A�� . h it i 19 , ,,,� • .HILL • ��11 • Grind/Overlay walkway sections • Replace the removed playground as needed • New Sign • New Small Playground • Paint Restroom Building Rosalma Park: • Replace Picnic Shelter • Park Benches • Replace sand under play equipment with wood chips South 6th Avenue Parkway. • Tree pruning • Grass and trees • Sell to YVCC Future Needs. • Replace broken sidewalk Lions ParkPool (19): sections as needed. • Indoor Swimming Pool • Six Tennis Courts Sununitview Park (35): • Four Horseshoe Pits • Park benches • Basketball Court • Picnic tables • Parking Lot • Picnic Tables School Facilities. • Grills Davis High School (10/47) • Park Benches • Baseball field • Playground • Soccer field • Restrooms • Kunnler Field (track football) Future Needs. • Four indoor volleyball two • New bulk head for pool basketball courts • New Sign • Remove old spray ground McKinley Elementary (14): • Remove or renovate restroonn • Outdoor basketball court • Tree removal, pruning • Two soccer fields • Three t -ball fields Portia Park (28): • Playground • Picnic tables • Barbecues Yakima Valley Community College (19): Future Needs. • Parker Field (baseball) • Tree removal, pruning • Weight room /Fitness facility • Indoor volley ball and basketball Raymond Park (30): courts • Picnic Tables • Dunbar Field (fastpitch) • Grill • Wrestling room • New Trees • Softball field Future Needs. 40 Plannmg Area 8 Census Tract 8 (416 acres) Centrally located within the City Limits Mostly single - family residences with commercial uses along north /south arterial streets and at mayor intersections 111111111_,Annnl nn`k6 irt.w •• • � IIIUrr2IS 11yk Ila1 J iII Year Population Density 2000 4,614 111 2010 4 495 10 8 Franklin Park (9) • Repair tennis courts • Outdoor pool with watershde • Landscape along Stanley Blvd • Five umbrellas in the pool area • New trees • Expanded fencing /green space in the pool area Tieton Terrace Park (37) • Six tennis courts • Picnic Tables and Benches • Pathway • Swing set • Parking lot Future Needs • Picnic Shelter • Replace swing set • Picnic Tables • Possibly locate a small • Grills playground • Restrooms • Sign • Benches • Picnic shelter Future Needs • Replace sign School Facilities • Re do snack shack update Franklin Middle School (11) restrooms m pool area • Baseball field • Paint extenor of pool building • Football /soccer field • Replace playground that was • Track removed due to safety issues • Outdoor basketball courts • Replace /Enlarge picnic shelter • Gymnasium • Increase parking • New watershde Roosevelt Elementary School (6) • Two t ball fields 41 • Outdoor basketball court • Playground • Gymnasium • Two multi- purpose fields Planmng Area 9: Census Tracts 9 - 1 and 9 - 2 (1,935 acres) Mostly single - family residential with areas of two - family and multi- family Isolated commercial strips are located along arterial streets This area contains large parcels of vacant and undeveloped land that is transitioning from farmland and orchard III , 9 _ ■ ' ■ _ I 1 ` 7 d i n il 1111111/ , NW E M; Ms, I - .. FA NB i a, NI I ______ ,1-- a 38 ,� ,, , I � L -2 1 23 1 i L_ rn'T T - IINGTON AVE Year Population Density 2000 10,560 5 5 2010 11,216 5 8 Galleon Park/Harman Center (11) • Paint intenor and extenor of • Open Space Harman Center • Parking Area • Re -stripe parking lot • Harman Center Building • New Secunty Camera System Future Needs 42 West Valley Community Park (38): • Gymnasium • Covered Picnic Areas • Two multi -use play fields • One Soccer Field • Playground • Two Playgrounds • Outdoor Living Classroom Trail Summitview Elementary School (7): • Basketball Courts • Soccer field • Benches • Large play field • Restroom • Playground • Horseshoe Pits • Gymnasium • Walking Trails • Paved Parking West Valley Middle School,'Junior High Future Needs. (23): • New Sign on East Side • Outdoor basketball hoops • Additional Picnic Shelters • Two Softball fields • Grind/Overlay Walking Trails • Baseball field • Parking Lot Lights • Soccer field • New filtration system for • Football field irrigation • Two gymnasiums • New spray ground Wide Hollow Elementary School (17): • New paved pathways for walkers • Soccer field • Gymnasium School Facilities. • Two multi- purpose fields Apple Valley Elementary (9): • Outdoor basketball court • Outdoor basketball court 43 Planning Area 10 Census Tract 10 (396 acres) Mostly single family residential with areas of two family and isolated multi family residential Some commercial uses along attenal streets sa 13 1 /^ 1 , , . r 111 16. 1 114: Year Population Density 2000 5,725 14 5 2010 5,885 14 9 Fisher Golf Course (8) • Zaepfel Stadium (football /track) • Nine hole golf course • Three softball fields • Starter /club house • Indoor volleyball and basketball • Dnving range net courts • Umbrella and patio area Future Needs Nob Hill Elementary (15) • Taller Fence • Four t ball fields • Re do roof and concrete pad for • Two multi use fields maintenance burldmg • Playground • Increase Parking • Outdoor basketball court • Re roof starter house • Create entrance off Parking Lot Whitney Elementary / Wilson Middle • Golf Carts School (16/18) • Remodel /Relocate starter house • Football field / Two soccer fields • Four baseball fields School Facilities • Track Eisenhower High School (13) • One multi use field • Three outdoor basketball courts • One t ball field • Two baseball fields • Playground • One soccer field • Gymnasium • Outdoor basketball courts 44 Planning Area 11: Census Tract 11 (1,728 acres) The portion within the city contains residential, commercial and industrial uses The airport takes up a majonty of this planning area In addition, the majority of the southern portion of this area is outside city limits in the Urban Growth Area _ lig r . S It- "="--_, F cc - )i 29 I 1 ...... E 1 t7t ,. cni 7 1 N r .J717 — --..,...., 11 r ��r LAHTANUM RD I k i! L - •r��. -�. ter- r r - r-i n r- n r - 1,1_ �wMEaIN rv�M� Year Population Density 2000 6,418 3 7 2010 6,931 4 0 45 Fairbrook Islands (7): • Nature area with trail • Grassy area islands in residential • Pond and wetland areas area • 2 Paved Parking Lots Future Needs. • Picnic Shelters • Xeriscape one of the islands • Picnic Tables • Grills Kissel Park (16): • Restrooms • 12 -court tennis campus • Storage facility • Restroom/Storage building Future Needs. • Play equipment • Grind/Overlay Pathway • Swings • New Restroom on East and West • Parking area Sides • Basketball court • New Signs/Planters • Picnic Shelter • Replace Bridges • Picnic Tables • Clean up Nature Area • Benches • Re -do Access Points at Parking • 0 6 mile pathway Lots Future Needs. • Re- stripe Parking Lots • Another picnic shelter • New Lights in Parking Lots • Expand basketball court • Terrace hillside for concerts in • Upgrade portions of the irrigation the park system • Replace Tables by Creek • Screened area for trash bins • Permanent benches along • Add permanent benches around pathway pathway • Replace fence south side • Shade structures between tennis • Viewing platform next to pond courts • Install irrigation. parking area and hydro seed undeveloped Perry Soccer Complex: Randall Park south of creek • Soccer fields with portable goals • Parking lot School Facilities. • Walkway lvIcClure Elementary (20): • One soccer field Randall Park (29): • One softball field • Basketball Court • Gymnasium • Pathway • Outdoor basketball court • Playground • Playground 46 Plannmg Area 12 Census Tracts 12 -1 and 12 -2 (703 acres) Contains a variety of residential uses with industrial on the east and south Areas of commercial uses mixed in along arterial streets 0 1 21 AI 1 _D ; w i 1 _-. _ 11 tc:C r al 27 I W WASHINGTON AVE Year Population Density 2000 9 048 1 9 2010 12,246 1 4 Gardner Park (27) • Food Cart • Two softball fields • Golf Carts • Volleyball Court • New Park Sign • Restroomistoragelconcession • Drinking Fountain building • Gravel Parking School Facilities • Playground Hoover Elementary (21) • Picnic Tables • Two soccer fields • Swing set • Two t ball fields Future Needs • Playground • Pave the gravel parking • Multi use field • Fence entire east side of park • Replace restroom building Lewis and Clark Middle School (25) • Replace playground • Baseball fourplex • Outdoor basketball courts 47 • Two gymnasiums • One t -ball field • Football / Soccer field • One multi -use field • Three soccer fields • Gymnasium • Playground Ridgeview Elementary (Union Gap) • Outdoor basketball court • One soccer field Planning Area 13 Census Tract 13 (1,335 acres) The majority of this tract Tres in Union Gap The only small portions of the 28, I , City of Yakima in this I. tract are zoned for PIONEER Airport Support and I Industrial/Commercial uses This area contains mixed uses including I - HTA residential, industrial and 1-3 • commercial It. I .4.1.................._ Nh....' Year Population Density 2000 2,463 18 2010 2,731 2 0 • Two playgrounds Ahtanum Youth Park (Union Gap) (1) • Activities buildings • Multiple soccer fields • Equestrian arena • Two tennis courts Picnic shelters • Outdoor basketball courts • Restrooms • Low ropes challenge course • BMX Track 48 Planning Area 14: Census Tract 14 (1,739 acres) Year Population Density The only City areas in this tract are zoned 2000 3,303 1 9 for commercial and industrial uses The 2010 3,444 2 0 majonty of this area is in Union Gap and is largely commercial, with areas of residential Cahalan Park (City of Union Gap) (2) and industrial uses • Softball field • Parking area '9[!1 Z Loudon Park (City of Union Gap) (20) • Tennis court 26 9 • Playground AS I R N cc • Restroom lir • Picnic facilities 2 School Facilities Martin Luther King Elementary (26) \ ....k • Baseball field • Multi -use fields \ MOM • Outdoor basketball court ' \ • Gymnasium . "A twill \ MR � Union Gap School 11 11 • Gymnasium `, 1E 1111 • Open playfield 1111E 11111!!1 11111::111 111':111 1111161 11111111 49 Planning Area 15 Census Tracts 15-1 and 15-2 (724 acres) Mostly commercial with some industrial and residential mixed throughout. The Central Washington State Fair Park occupies a large portion of this area Year Population Density 2000 9,617 13 3 2010 9,795 13 5 � Krwanrs Park (17) ` ��� • Gateway Complex — • �� 4 softball fields %� • Picnic Pavilion '�18 • Two playgrounds y • Basketball Court •• • Volleyball Court • Pond/Nature Area 1611111111 • Restroom/Concessio 4111U111 ! 11 n Stand )1111111111 • Picnic Tables . . . 11 • Grills • Historic Incinerator ■ • Skatepark 1. 6 " • Future softball fields III NOB H I L Futre Needs � • Finish softball field project A • Xeriscape hillside 1110 and planter areas Ili • IItv i• around parking MIN lot •1 ' A • Improve pond — aerating fountain o Netting over bleacher • Replace parking lot lights areas • Re-stripe parking lot o Storage unit for ball field • Look for opportunities for future maintenance property acquisition o Temporary Fences • Gateway Complex o Trees around field 4 o New towable bleachers o Batting Cages 50 Martin Luther King. Jr. Park (21): • Grill • Water Playground • Tetherball • Two Basketball Courts • Parking Area • Two Tennis Courts • Drinking Fountain • Picnic Tables Future Needs. • Grills • Replace parking lot lights • Playground • Re- stripe parking lot Future Needs. • New Playground • New sign • Tree pruning removal • Demo building • Convert Tennis Courts to Mini- School Facilities. Soccer Adams Elementary (12): • New Picnic Tables • Football/Soccer field • Gymnasium Naches Parkway. • Two multi -use fields • Tree -lined parkway • Playground • Picnic Tables • Benches Washington Middle School (8): Future Needs. • Football Soccer field • Replace broken sidewalk • Gymnasium sections, ramps • Baseball Field • Cut down and replace • Track dead/problem trees Southeast Community Park (34): • Playground • Volleyball Court • Picnic Tables 51 Plannmg Area 16 Census Tract 16 (164,525 acres) A small portion of this tract lies within city limits that area being on the west side of the Yakima River Development is very sparse with some commercial areas The east side of the aver is the Terrace Heights area which is largely residential with areas of commercial and industrial devel opment Year Population Density 2000 8 487 0 05 2010 9 267 0 06 Sarg Hubbard Park (Greenwav operated) (32) • Amphitheater • Playground I • Boat launch river access `' • Ponds • Fitness Course ,,� � _ • Picnic shelter li • Pathways • Nature area it • Restroom 1 • Parking C cc • Sherman Park ( Greenwav a ' to W operated) 4 - 6 • Playground , T Tract 16 Continues East • Pathways • Bocce ball court • Picnic shelter �• Parking Sunnse Rotary Park ( Greenwav operated) • McGuire playground `, \41.1i , W • Pathway t • Picnic areas r El iltx • Restroom 52 Yakima Arboretum u n (39): • Interpretive center • Japanese Garden • River shore line • Nature area • Pathways • Pond • Parking Yakima State Sportsman Park (40): • Fishing ponds • Outdoor classroom • 120 picnic tables • Hiking trails • Camp sites • Kitchen shelter 53 Planning Area 28 Census Tracts 28 -1 and 28 -2 (30,143 acres) Mostly agricultural and residential Very few isolated areas of commercial and industrial The 2011 West Valley Neighborhood Plan includes future plaruung designations for this area ( *note — density Year Population Density* calculation from previous plan only included density 2000 10,133 0 40 within City limits, not the tract as a whole) 2010 13,241 2 27 Tract 28 Continues West c 1! 1 Q n V a I = ir= 1- rn u4 ! 0 c 1 III 24 t1 el _ i C O OLI - . _ nil Ili O &, ENTA RD ■ A. o _u z 11 1 e� l • >oo ] , r 1aam 1 1OOGJ �, =tn 7a ^rip t 0 acOOOO�'- MEEIni 1 D I D D 54 --%•■ .‘-:"Sia a - \.,1,,_ _ , \ `,.. \ ( l , • . • a : - . . 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"" ......... ,...,....„. ....„ ........ ......„,..., -- - .-.- , -- .-- .- .4 Schools :ram..., vimoi --- ---- --- - .--- --- - ......... ....inn ... 55 Chapter 5 — GOALS AND OBJECTIVES (Jews Le aae' EN The Goals Objectives and Policies set forth in this Our Nf1,SSION is to provide Chapter are carried forward from the preceding plan and promote community with review comment additions and deletions recommended by staff and Park Commission These leisure, recreational and goals and objectives allow us to measure progress in cultural activities for all the development and implementation of the plan and o citizens This is accomplished make alterations as needed to meet the community s through professional staff who dynamic ever changing nature Through an exchange provide recreational programs of visions and ideals the desires of the entire and activities and maintain community are brought into focus and an action plan facility standards making them can be drafted to turn Goals Objectives and Policies in to solid accomplishments aesthetic and desirable for use Through our services, we Goals must be realistically achievable to be effective strive to enhance personal Typically they are long range and remain largely well being and to improve the unchanged throughout the life of the comprehensive quality of life that makes plan They may however evolve and change over Yakima a great place to live time in response to altered circumstances The Objectives comprise measurable tasks to be completed work and play as part of each overall Goal and represent points at which operations are directed Policies specifically dictate how each Objective will be accomplished Policies provide the details and guidance system for Administrators to ensure consistent action throughout the department and the community RECREATION SERVICES Goal To continue to provide active recreation programs that meet the leisure interests and needs of the community and offer a wide variety of other recreation opportunities to all citizens of Yakima Objective Enhance program opportunities and program quality within existing recreation service units Pohcy Work cooperatively with local agencies organizations and special interest groups to support and enhance city recreation programs and services 56 Policy: Encourage recreation staff to keep abreast of current and future recreation trends by attending professional conferences and workshops as budget allows. Policy: Continually identify community interests and needs relating to recreation programs and services. Policy: Evaluate the effectiveness of programs and activities through the use of questionnaires. surveys. and participation evaluation forms. Objective: Establish recreational programs and services that meet the needs of the City's special populations. Policy: Establish new programs to meet the changing and expanding needs of older citizens and those with special needs. Policy: Work with the Harman Center. S.E. Community Center. and Police Athletic League /Miller Park Activity Center to establish recreational programs and services at those sites. Policy: Offer programs directly or by working cooperatively with the Yakima School District and other local agencies to provide a variety of activities for youth and teens with special emphasis on programs during after school hours and during summer months. Objective: Establish recreation programs to meet the needs and interests of the city's Hispanic population. Policy: Establish. coordinate and direct recreation programs for the city's Hispanic population. Policy: Establish and offer adult and youth special interest classes that are taught by bilingual individuals. Policy: Establish bilingual promotional materials to encourage participation of Hispanic citizens in Parks and Recreation programs. Objective: Establish a realistic. achievable annual level of self- support for each of the recreation service units. Policy: Make adult recreation programs 100 °o self- supporting whenever possible. but especially in the areas of sports and special interest classes. Policy: Set a goal of 80 °o self- support for combined programs and services for senior citizens. Policy: Set a goal of 50°0 self- support for the City's combined aquatic programs. Policy: Provide users easy access to park facilities and. when feasible. support those offering special events. 57 Policy: Encourage staff to become familiar with community programs and services in order to provide referrals and options to citizens. Objective: Develop an effective variety of resources to support city Parks and Recreation Services. Policy: Establish collaborations and sponsorships with community service organizations and businesses to maximize the effectiveness of existing resources. to increase the affordability of programs and services and to bring Parks and Recreation services within the financial reach of all members of the community Policy: Develop opportunities for volunteer support of Parks and Recreation services and programs. Policy: Develop sponsorship programs such as ballfield signs and tee sponsors to provide program and facility enhancements. Policy: Develop scholarship programs for youth and low income families. Policy: Provide advertising space within the Seasonal Program Guides. Objective: Facilitate and support recreational services offered throughout the community by nonprofit groups. service agencies. and or faith -based organizations. Policy: Share professional and. when available. financial resources to enhance recreational services to the citizens of Yakima. Policy: Promote citizen access to community recreational services by acting as a clearing house and promoting those services. Policy: Create service delivery collaborations and partnerships with community groups and agencies. Objective: Support efforts to promote tourism activities relation to Parks and Recreation. Policy: Work with the Sports Commission to offer sporting tournaments and events at city park facilities. Policy: Provide professional management. services and. when available. financial resources to support tourism activity This may also include promotion. marketing. registrations and concessions. Policy: Explore options for networking to provide community events including the establishment of a Special Events Coordinator 58 PARK OPERATIONS: Goal: Maintain existing parks and recreation facilities at a level that meets the public's desire for safe. clean. and enjoyable parks. Goal: Develop existing city parks and open space areas to meet the current and future demands and needs of both individual city neighborhoods and the community at large. Goal: Establish and implement a long -range plan for the development of parks. open space. green belts and pathways within the City of Yakima and the greater urban growth area. Objective: Adequately fund the annual maintenance and operation requirements of park services. Policy: Establish acceptable levels of maintenance through identification of basic standards for maintenance. service. appearance and safety Policy: Provide appropriate resources to maintain that level of service. Policy: Explore opportunities for leveraging local money for park development through both public and private grant funding. Policy: Examine feasibility and appropriateness of privatizing certain maintenance functions. Policy: Develop and implement a plan for efficient water usage within City parks through research and analysis of appropriate water sources. equipment replacement. capitol improvement and long -range cost effectiveness. Policy: Explore feasibility of cooperative maintenance agreements with Yakima School District. West Valley School District. and other appropriate agencies to provide service when parks are located adjacent to schools. Policy: Develop a program for volunteer support for beautification and maintenance projects. Objective: Establish an on -going six -year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for Parks and Recreation facilities. Policy: Establish a six -year CIP for annual renewal. revision. and adoption by the City Council. Policy: Fund capital improvements through the City's general fund. parks cash balance and state. federal and other grants. Policy: Promote private. public and non - profit partnerships for capital improvements to parks. 59 Objective: Enhance the visual image and public appreciation of city parks, recreation facilities by making them cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing. Policy: Continually evaluate the effectiveness of park employees and programs to ensure the consistent delivery of quality services. Policy: Provide on -going training for parks employees that relates to maintenance and landscaping practices, proper use of equipment and repair to upkeep of park facilities. Policy: Implement and or work with allied groups to implement programs to provide development, upgrading and maintenance of park lands and recreation facilities according to needs. Policy: Develop and implement a plan for tree planting, maintenance and replanting throughout the City's park system and rights -of -way Objective: Expand the presence of art throughout the community, particularly in public spaces and parks to enhance the community and its quality of life. Policy: Foster relationships with local arts organizations such as Allied _its, the Giving Circle, and the Arts Commission to encourage the addition of art in public spaces and parks. Objective: Establish a priority for future land acquisition and park development based on neighborhood as well as the overall City's needs. Policy: Draft a city standard for public open and green space. Policy: Develop and maintain an up -to -date park land acquisition plan that targets and sets priorities for future park acquisitions. Policy: Review the City and its neighborhoods and identify needs according to that standard. Policy: Meet with local neighborhood associations and residents to identify their needs and interests. Policy: Consider existing school facilities and grounds and their current use by the public in future land acquisition and park development. Policy: Consider safe pedestrian and bicycle access in future land acquisition and park development. Policy: Identify potential sites and plan for a series of neighborhood parks in Yakima's Urban Growth Area. Policy: Promote private, public and nonprofit partnerships for acquisition and development of future parks within the City of Yakima. Policy: Establish a Parks Fund dedicated to the acquisition of land for future neighborhood and community parks within the City of Yakima. 60 Policy: Factor future ongoing maintenance needs and funding into planning for future development of city parks and green spaces. Objective: Create a unique and positive image for the City through establishment and development of green belts and pathways within the City of Yakima. Policy: Continue to cooperate and share resources to develop and expand the Yakima Greenwav Policy: Work with the city Bicycle and Pedestrian Pathway Committee to use existing irrigation canal rights -of -way and Yakima Valley Transportation (YVT) corridors for pathways. Policy: Develop interpretive signage, trailheads and connections to pathways and trails extending beyond the urban area. Policy: Ensure that bikeways and pedestrian pathways are made a consideration in surface transportation planning for the City of Yakima. Policy: Establish landscaping standards for implementation along major city streets, arterials and city pathways and at urban gateways that are compatible with area uses and maintainable by existing city resources. Policy: Incorporate, whenever possible, greenbelts and pathways into all future residential, commercial, and industrial developments and keep these trails, as much as possible, separate from streets and arterials. Policy: Establish connectivity with the William 0 Douglas Trail portion which goes through the City of Yakima. Policy: Explore possibilities for establishing pathway connections between existing and future parks. Objective: Develop innovative approaches to creating new park facilities. Policy: Promote private, public and non - profit partnerships for capital improvements to parks. Policy: Encourage creation of a centrally located outdoor performing arts stage or facility through a public, private and, or business partnership Policy: Encourage development of non - traditional recreation venues including a water park. BMX track, skate parks, disc golf, and other facilities for emerging sports and activities. Policy: Expand the use of school facilities to meet the City's need for new playgrounds. Policy: Use city cultural and historical landmarks as a cornerstone for park development whenever possible. Policy: Establish level of service standards for city park properties to provide guidelines for their appropriate use by the public and for special events. 61 Policy: Create mixed -use parks which cater to a variety of recreational uses, needs. Objective: Create and implement a long -range plan and program for the preservation of prime open space areas in or adjacent to the City of Yakima. Policy: Support continued expansion of the Yakima Greenway Policy: Support the fostering of a strong relationship between the Greenway and abutting city neighborhoods. Policy: Advocate incorporation of greenbelts into future residential. commercial. and industrial development to minimize impacts of locating potentially incompatible land uses next to one another Policy: Preserve open space through means other than ownership. such as transfer of development rights. tax obligation relief and land donations to non- profit open space preservation organizations. Objective: Continually work to achieve the highest standards of safety and accessibility in City Parks. Policy: Consider handicapped. pedestrian and bicycle accessibility when planning future land acquisition and park development. Policy: Stay abreast of current developments in park and play equipment and materials including those designed to facilitate use by citizens with special needs. Policy: Establish and implement a set of best practices for pesticide and herbicide programs to ensure protection of workers, citizens and the environment. Policy: Establish and implement standards for lighting in parks and along pathways. Policy: Establish and implement standards for upgrading and replacement of aging park amenities for safety and handicapped access. T AHOM A CEMETERY: Goal: To maintain Tahoma Cemetery at a standard that meets the public's desires for a burial site for loved ones and as an important historical Yakima landmark. Goal: To guarantee the future of the cemetery for perpetuity Objective: Provide appropriate maintenance and operations to meet the needs of Tahoma Cemetery Objective: Adequately fund the Cemetery's maintenance operations. 62 Policy: Improve operational efficiency Policy: Reduce dependence upon the Parks and Recreation subsidy Policy: Implement revenue options to improve the Cemetery's revenue stream. Objective: Enhance and preserve the historical importance of Tahoma Cemetery Policy: Maintain the cemetery in a manner that protects its historical nature. Policy: Ensure preservation of the cemetery's historical value is addressed in the development of operations and maintenance standards. Policy: Develop improved service for the public in areas of historical and genealogical research. ADMINISTRATION: Goal: To offer professional administrative services to the citizens of Yakima and the Parks and Recreation service units. Objective: Maintain and increase staff proficiency Policy: Establish and implement standards for on -going training for program safety and job performance. Policy: Stay abreast of developments. changes. and advancements in park maintenance and operations. Policy: Anticipate and prepare for future staffing needs that may arise due to retirements. budget. or other changes. Objective: Establish a process for animal review and update of division goals. objectives. and policies. Policy: Annually draft service unit goals. objectives. and policies for recreation and maintenance operations and review them for compatibility with departmental and city priorities. Policy: Annually wally review and evaluate progress in meeting service unit goals. Policy: Review goals. objectives. policies. and performance annually with Park Commission. Objective: Provide and develop an effective community and public relations program. Policy: Implement a program to educate the community about the benefits of parks and leisure service. 63 Policy: Incorporate a public relations element into plans of action for park development. facilities. services. and programs. Policy: Strive to work with and coordinate services with other agencies and program providers whenever possible. Policy: Address citizen concerns in a timely manner Policy: Promote Parks and Recreation Division accomplislunents. Objective: Develop marketing policies and practices to solidify and enhance agency identity Policy: Create recognizable agency brand, identity Policy: Establish promotional practices that are consistent and supportive of agency mission. Policy: Utilize new technology via the internet and social media to reach a broader number of park users. Objective: Seek and develop additional sources of funding and support for park and program development and delivery Policy: Examine feasibility of a Metropolitan Park District. Policy: Explore establislunent of a Parks Foundation. Policy: Continue to identify and apply for appropriate private and public grants. Policy: Explore and develop underwriting partnerships with the private sector and with service organizations. Policy: Develop an advertising program for implementation in park facilities. Policy: Develop practices that seek sponsorships. donation. and financial support for Parks and Recreation. Policy: Continue to develop operational efficiencies to reduce dependence on tax support for services. Objective: Establish a volunteer corps to assist Parks and Recreation in service delivery Policy: Develop. coordinate. and direct a comprehensive volunteer program. Policy: Recruit and retain volunteers wherever possible for assistance in park and recreation operations and programs. Policy: Provide opportunities to support parks and recreation services through volunteerism. 64 PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Goal: To advise the City Council, City Manager, and Director of Public Works regarding formulation of policy and plans for development, management, and operations of the City's Parks and Recreation Program. Policy: Annually review budgets, programs, and services. Policy: Assist in establishment of standards for park maintenance. Policy: Monitor and evaluate the park system. Policy: Assist in the establishment of short-term and long -term goals for Parks and Recreation. Policy: Promote parks and recreation programs to the community Policy: Provide citizen input regarding Parks and Recreation. Policy: Endorse commission membership that is representative of the community LONG RANGE OBJECTIVES Long -range objectives present a special challenge from the standpoint of financing because municipal funding cycles typically run in increments of one to two years. Recognizing the uncertainty and the limitations that short-term budgets place on long -range objectives, we begin by planning today for facilities that we know we want and will need but cannot presently afford. With no vision for the future, we will be unprepared to take advantage of opportunities when they become available. Aquatic Center: • Establish a task force to lead feasibility study of an aquatic center • Draft design and development options • Indentify funding options Fisher Golf Course: • Upgrade course • Increase parking • Replace the clubhouse • Improve golf and ancillary activities • New fencing /netting Outdoor Performing Arts Stage: • Ideal location west of 16 Avenue • Utilization of existing park facilities (Franklin or Randall Parks) require expansion of parking facilities 65 Develop New mini- Parks: • Size Up to 3 acres • Locations throughout the city but particularly in areas where population density is the greatest, and West Valley Develop New Neighborhood Parks: • Minimum size of 3 acres. • Locations north central, south central, northeast and west Yakima, and West Valley Develop New Community Parks: • Size 20 acres or more • Potential locations. west of 40 Avenue, south of Nob Hill, Terrace Heights, north of Barge - Lincoln School, south of Washington Ave, and West Valley Bike and Walking Pathways: Abandoned Yakima Valley Transportation (YVT) corridors, as well as recently covered irrigation canals, provide a natural system for development of pathways throughout the City with the following objectives. • Linking new pathways with existing city bike routes • Linking major city parks where possible • Beginning or ending city pathways with links to the Greenway • Establishing greenbelts in conjunction with city pathways • Connecting with trails and pathways that extend beyond the urban growth area Refurbishment of Existing City Parks: • Kiwanis Park — completing the Gateway Complex, redevelopment of older Upper Kiwanis and construction of youth baseball fields • Franklin Pool — new slide, move snack shack off deck and incorporate into guard room, paint exterior of building • Franklin Park — replace the playground that was removed in the summer of 2011 • Gardner Park — development of girls fastpitch complex • Hannan Center — paint interior and exterior of building, re- stripe parking lot • Lions ParkPool — improve parking, new bulk head for pool • Elks Park — improve parking and upgrade ballfields • Renovation or replacement of aging restrooms throughout the system Establish a Youth Service Unit: This service would enable additional program opportunities. • Open gymnasium for drop -in and organized recreational activities 66 • Late night organized team sports play • Summer playgrounds in each city neighborhood • Neighborhood -based recreation centers utilizing school facilities • Community special events organized around local. regional. and national celebrations and holidays. as well as cultural events Establish a Funded Urban Forestry Program: The Urban Forestry Program is a community -wide tree care and replanting program targeted towards city parks. open space. and green belt. • Establislunent of a volunteer community tree pruning force • Develop a City Tree Ordinance • Establislunent of a funding source to maintain and care for the City's trees • Establislunent of a park nursery and greenhouse for plant and tree propagation Vacant Land Survey: • Work with owners, developers of large tracts of vacant land such as the Gateway Mill District (formally the Boise Cascade Mill Property) and the Congdon Property to implement Parks Planning as a part of their overall development plans. 67 V ilna Chapter 6 - PUBLIC PARTICIPATION L.., • The process of putting this plan together included various opportunities for public input This plan will help guide the future of Parks and Recreation and we wanted to ensure that what we will be doing is consistent with public need The public participation process included four main opportunities — public meetings park commission SEPA review and community survey Public Meetings There were two public meetings which were held on September 19 and 20 2011 at the SECC and the Harman Center The purpose of these meetings was to share the survey results data Park Commission The City of Yakima Park Commission meets on the second Wednesday of each month A portion of time was dedicated at every meeting held in 2011 to discuss the progress of this Comprehensive Plan update The Park Commission approved the draft survey that was sent out and was presented with the data when it was compiled Additionally drafts of each chapter were discussed at length pnor to the public hearing Eventually the Park Commission held an Open Record Public Hearing on this Comprehensive Plan update on February 8 2012 A legal notice was provided in the Yalama Herald to notify the public of the meeting date The Commissioners moved to approve the plan subject to some minor changes The final step will be to go before City Council for approval and adoption SEPA A SEPA Environmental Review has been completed A Notice of Environmental Review was issued on January 23 2012 which requested comments during a 20 day comment penod A Determination of Non Significance was issued on February 14 2012 no appeals were filed Community Survey In June 2011 a 4 -page survey was mailed to 4 300 random city residents The survey was pro nded in English and Spanish and included a postage paid return envelope To encourage participation and thank citizens for taking the time to fill out the survey each mailer included a coupon for $2 off a round of golf at Fisher (up to 4 people) and a coupon for a free swim at Franklin (up to 5 people) 868 surveys were mailed back (20 1 %) thus making the results scientific The survey contained a variety of questions dealing with park usage media park facilities recreation programs customer service future planning and demographic /background information 68 The survey results provided a vast amount of information that was paramount in the crafting of this comprehensive plan update. If there is a single trend that can be derived from the survey results it would be that the citizens of Yakima care very much for their parks. The complete results will be tabulated at the end of this chapter Some of the underlying themes are as follows. • 92 °o of respondents indicated that Parks and Recreation facilities are important to their family • 70°0 of respondents said that they feel safe when visiting City Parks. • People would like to see more Walking/Nature Trails. Swimming Pools /Water Features. and Pathways. • 62 °o of respondents have participated in recreation programs. and 81 °0 of those people will participate in the future. • 91 °o or respondents are in favor of selling advertising space in the seasonal program guides to help off -set costs. • 46.6°0 indicated they would support a small tax increase that could only be used for Parks and Recreation. • 50.3°0 are in favor of implementing online registration for programs and facility rentals. Following is a summary of the responses to the survey which was mailed to 4300 random city residents. A total of 868 surveys were returned (20 °0). Response rates vary per question as not everyone who took the survey answered every question. and certain questions provided for multiple answers. See Appendix B for the Survey and additional comments received. Note — lMIost questions in the survey allowed multiple responses. 69 Do you live within the Yakima City Limits? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 99 1% 801 No 0 9% 7 answered question 808 skipped question 60 How long have you lived in Yakima? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Less than 1 year 2 1% 18 1 to3years 67% 58 4to8years 137% 118 9 t 13 years 11 0% 95 14 to 18 years 65% 56 More than 18 years 59 9% 515 answered question 860 skipped question 8 Which Yakima City Parks do you visit regularly' Please check all boxes that apply Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Cherry Park 1 1% 9 Chesterley Park 26 2% 208 Elks Memorial Park 6 5% 52 Fairbrook Park 1 4% 11 Fisher Park Golf Course 19 6% 156 Franklin Park 65 4% 519 Gailleon Park - Harman Center 10 7% 85 Gardner Park 2 3% 18 Gilbert Park 15 1% 120 Kissel Park 33 4% 265 70 Kiwanis Park 11 2% 89 Larson Park 7 7% 61 Lions Park and Pool 21 3% 169 Martin Luther King Park 5 0% 40 McGuinness Park 0 6% 5 Miller Park 9 1% 72 Milroy Park 6 3% 50 Perry Soccer Complex 7 4% 59 Powerhouse Canal Pathway 12 3% 98 Randall Park 58 2% 462 Raymond Park 1 0% 8 Southeast Community Center 3 9% 31 Summitview Park 2 6% 21 West Valley Community Park 25 1% 199 Other (please specify) 29 answered question 794 skipped question 74 What type of park and recreation facilities do you and your family use the most Please check all boxes that apply Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Baseball Fields 13 9% 112 Golfing at Fisher Golf Course 21 1% 170 Miller or MLK Spray Park 6 1% 49 Open Space 41 1% 332 Pathway 53 2% 429 Picnic Facilities 38 5% 311 Playground 40 3% 325 Skatepark 6 1% 49 Soccer Fields 16 7% 135 Softball Fields 7 7% 62 Swimming Pools 41 0% 331 Tennis Courts 15 6% 126 Volleyball Courts 5 3% 43 Walking /Nature Trails 60 7% 490 Other (please specify) 23 71 answered question 807 skipped question 61 On average, how often do you visit parks? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count 10+ times per month 18 3% 155 5 -10 times per month 19 7% 167 2 -5 times per month 24 5% 208 Once per month 6 6% 56 5 -10 times per year 14 7% 125 Less than 5 times per year 9 9% 84 Very rarely 6 0% 51 Never 1 8% 15 answered question 848 skipped question 20 What brings your family to the park? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Location 73 9% 569 Amenities 46 8% 360 Organized activities /events 40 9% 315 Number of people at the park 7 9% 61 Other (please specify) 78 answered question 770 skipped question 98 Have you visited the Harman Center? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 51 0% 419 No 49 0% 402 answered question 821 skipped question 47 72 If you have visted the Harman Center, what programs or events did you participate in? Please check all that apply Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Cards 7 4% 28 Games 4 5% 17 Dances 12 5% 47 SocialNisiting 27 3% 103 Computer Room & Classes 13 8% 52 Saturday Breakfast 8 0% 30 Lunch 11 1% 42 Dinner 5 6% 21 Trips and/or Tours 25 7% 97 Enrichment Classes 9 5% 36 Rental 35 8% 135 Billiards 1 9% 7 Coffee Bar 13 8% 52 Organized Groups 10 6% 40 Other (please specify) 83 answered question 377 skipped question 491 Have you or a family member ever volunteered at the Harman Center? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 7 4% 62 No 92 6% 772 answered question 834 skipped question 34 How do you receive your information regarding park facilities and recreation programs? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Seasonal Program Guide 66 6% 490 Newspaper 52 9% 389 73 Program Brochure 17 0% 125 Facebook 3 1% 23 Website 12 9% 95 Other (please specify) 68 answered question 736 skipped question 132 How would you like to receive your park and recreation information in the future? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Seasonal Program Guide 58 6% 485 Newspaper 35 1% 290 TV /Radio Advertising 17 2% 142 Program Brochure 14 5% 120 Facebook 8 3% 69 Website 19 2% 159 Direct mail 28 8% 238 Other (please specify) 36 answered question 827 skipped question 41 What method do you prefer for the registration of park programs and facility rentals? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Mail in registration 32 2% 247 Online registration 50 3% 385 Walk in registration 26 8% 205 Telephone registration 31 5% 241 Other (please specify) 2 answered question 766 skipped question 102 Have you watched the Parks and Recreation Commission meetings on YPAC? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count 74 Yes 9 2% 77 No 90 8% 758 answered question 835 skipped question 33 If you have watched meetings on YPAC, did you find them informative Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 77 2% 61 No 22 8% 18 answered question 79 skipped question 789 Have you ever attended a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting live at City Hall9 Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 3 0% 25 No 97 0% 797 answered question 822 skipped question 46 Are you in favor of the Parks and Recreation Division selling advertising space in our Seasonal Program Guides to decrease printing costs? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 90 6% 685 No 9 4% 71 answered question 756 skipped question 112 How important are City Parks and Recreation facilities to you and your family? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Extremely I mportant 35 7% 300 Very Important 29 0% 244 I mportant 27 3% 229 75 Not 4 4% 37 Important Not Important No Opinion 4 0% 34 Other (please specify) 3 answered question 840 stripped question 28 How do you rate park maintenance? (such as cleanliness, field and equipment condition, mowing, etc ) Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Excellent 24 7% 207 Good 51 8% 435 Average 19 3% 162 Poor 2 4% 20 No Opinion 3 7% 31 Other (please specify) 16 answered question 839 skipped question 29 How do you rate park structures and features? (such as lighting, tables, parking, playgrounds, restrooms, etc ) Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Excellent 9 4% 78 Good 48 6% 402 Average 31 9% 264 Poor 6 2% 51 No Opinion 5 1% 42 Other (please specify) 34 answered question 827 skipped question 41 When you visit City Parks, do you feel safe/ Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 69 7% 568 No 7 7% 63 76 Don't Know 8 6% 70 Undecided 14 0% 114 I n No, please tell us why 152 answered question 815 skipped question 53 Are Yakima's Parks meeting your family's local recreational needs? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 72 2% 580 No 10 8% 87 Don't Know 6 1% 49 Undecided 10 8% 87 If No, how can we better serve your recreation needs? 119 answered question 803 skipped question 65 What Parks and Recreation amenities would you like to see more of Please check all boxes that apply. Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Baseball Fields 6 6% 50 Open Spaces 22 8% 174 Pathways 46 3% 353 Picnic Facilities 41 3% 315 Playgrounds 38 1% 290 Skateparks 7 6% 58 Soccer Fields 11 3% 86 Softball Fields 4 3% 33 Swimming Pools/Water Features 56 0% 427 Tennis Courts 8 7% 66 Volleyball Courts 10 5% 80 Walking /Nature Trails 57 3% 437 Other (please specify) 88 answered question 762 skipped question 106 77 Please rate the following facilities on how important they are to you and your family Very Somewhat Response, Answer Options Important Important Important Not Important Count Franklin Pool 314 189 118 125 746 Lions Pool 223 162 126 177 688 Harman Center 203 181 136 181 701 Tahoma Cemetery 169 142 115 220 646 Fisher Park Golf Course 183 150 146 194 673 Gateway Sports Complex 91 125 159 218 593 Chesterley Soccer Fields 152 127 144 216 639 Elks Baseball Fields 96 131 132 259 618 Kissel Park Tennis Complex 129 137 134 219 619 answered question 832 skipped question 36 Tahoma Cemetery is owned and operated by the City of Yakima Do you have a family member buried at Tahoma? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 31 8% 270 No 68 2% 579 answered question 849 skipped question 19 If yes, please rate the burial services that were provided for you and your family Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Excellent 23 1% 68 Good 42 7% 126 Average 6 8% 20 Poor 1 0% 3 No Opinion 26 4% 78 Other (please specify) 9 answered question 295 skipped question 573 78 Have you or any members of your family participated in ANY recreation programs? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 62 4% 502 No 37 6% 302 answered question 804 skipped question 64 Would you or your family members participate in the programs again'? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 83 4% 492 No 16 6% 98 If No, why not' 69 answered question 590 skipped question 278 Which Recreation Programs have you or your family participated in? Please check all boxes that apply Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Adult Softball League 19 5% 116 Adult Soccer League 6 9% 41 Adult Basketball League 6 5% 39 Adult Volleball League 8 1% 48 Golf Lessons 19 3% 115 Dodgeball 2 3% 14 Free Summer Playground Program 25 8% 154 Wood Working 1 7% 10 Swim Lessons 41 8% 249 Fitness Boot Camp 2 2% 13 Harman Center Programs 29 4% 175 Golf Tournaments 6 2% 37 Golf League 2 9% 17 Tennis Lessons 11 6% 69 79 Trek n Travel Trolley 4 0% 24 Water Walking 22 8% 136 Fnday Night Glowball Outings 4 2% 25 Halloween Haunted Trail 10 9% 65 Youth Baseball League 24 0% 143 Youth Soccer League 29 9% 178 Youth Swim Lessons 26 7% 159 Flag Football 3 2% 19 Hydro Fit 4 7% 28 Beyond the Bell after school program 3 2% 19 Other (please specify) 28 answered question 596 skipped question 272 How would you rate the quality of the recreation program? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Excellent 48 4% 209 Good 45 1% 195 Fair 5 3% 23 Poor 1 2% 5 Write in Program Name 205 answered question 432 skipped question 436 Please rate your telephone interactions with park and recreation staff. Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Excellent 11 2% 88 Good 26 7% 209 Average 7 9% 62 Fair 31% 24 Poor 0 8% 6 N/A 50 3% 394 answered question 783 skipped question 85 80 Please rate your face to face interactions with park maintenance staff Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Excellent 13 4% 106 Good 26 8% 212 Average 9 6% 76 Fair 3 0% 24 Poor 1 1% 9 N/A 45 9% 363 answered question 790 skipped question 78 Please rate your response to an email question Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Excellent 2 3% 17 Good 6 4% 48 Average 41% 31 Fair 2 8% 21 Poor 0 7% 5 N/A 83 7% 626 answered question 748 skipped question 120 Do you think the Parks and Recreation Division should become a Metropolrtan Park District, if no additional tax dollars are used [A Metropolitan Park District would be separate from the City The distict would manage, control, improve, maintain and acquire park facilities. It would also operate recreation programs.] Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 30 1% 236 No 10 4% 82 Undecided 59 5% 467 answered question 785 skipped question 83 81 Would you be willing to pay a small tax increase that could only be used for Parks and Recreation? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 46 6% 386 No 26 2% 217 Undecided 27 3% 226 answered question 829 skipped question 39 Would your and your family support a small tax increase for a specific new park facility? E.g. Aquatic Center Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 49 6% 413 No 27 1% 226 Undecided 23 3% 194 answered question 833 skipped question 35 Do you think that the costs for recreation programs should be subsidized with tax dollars? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 44 8% 365 No 26 7% 217 Undecided 28 5% 232 answered question 814 skipped question 54 Do you think our community should continue providing qualrty of life services funded by general government revenues? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 62 8% 501 No 71% 57 Undecided 30 1% 240 answered question 798 82 skipped question 70 Do you think that the Parks and Recreation Division should build a larger swimming pool in the future? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Yes 55 8% 459 No 17 7% 146 Undecided 26 5% 218 answered question 823 skipped question 45 Do you think that land should be purchased for the future development of more parks? Answer ©pttons Response Response Percent Count Yes Yes 51 6% 425 No 17 0% 140 Undecided Undecided 31 4% 259 answered question 824 824 skipped question 44 What kinds of new parks should be developed? Answer Cpttons Response Response Percent Count Community Parks (20+ acres) 27 5% 199 Neighborhood Parks (3+ acres) 47 6% 344 Mini Parks (less than 2 acres) 16 7% 121 Greenways /Pathways 47 3% 342 No New Parks 133% 96 Other (please specify) 60 answered question 723 skipped question 14,5 If you identified the need for new parks, how should they be developed? Answer Clpttons Response Response Percent Count 83 Open Space 21 6% 142 Athletic Fields 12 5% 82 Playground 33 1% 218 Trails /Nature Areas 40 1% 264 Multi -Use 68 1% 448 Other (please specify) 55 answered question 658 skipped question 210 What is your age? Answer Options Percent Response Percent Count 14 or Younger 07% 6 15 -19 1 0% 8 20 -29 9 7% 81 30 -39 19 2% 160 40 -49 15 3% 128 50 -59 20 0% 167 60 -69 17 2% 144 70 -79 11 4% 95 80+ 5 5% 46 answered question 835 skipped question 33 How many people live in your house or apartment? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count 1 14 4% 115 2 38 8% 310 3 13 3% 106 4 16 8% 134 5 9 8% 78 6 4 3% 34 7 11% 9 8 0 9% 7 9 0 6% 5 84 10 0 0% 0 11+ 0 1% 1 answered question 799 skipped question 69 How many children live in your home under the age of 18? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count None 58 2% 492 1 12 1% 102 2 16 7% 141 3 8 4% 71 4 3 5% 30 5 0 7% 6 6ormore 05% 4 answered question 846 skipped question 22 What is your gender? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Male 26 8% 225 Female 69 2% 581 I choose not to answer 3 9% 33 answered question 839 skipped question 29 What is your ethnic origin? Please check all boxes that apply for those living in your home Answer options Response Response Percent Count African American 1 0% 8 American Indian 1 7% 14 Asian 1 7% 14 Hawaiian or Pacific Islander 0 4% 3 Hispanic or Latino 14 3% 118 85 White /Caucasian 78 9% 651 I choose not to answer 6 4% 53 Other (please specify) 19 answered question 825 skipped question 43 What is your yearly family income? Answer Options Response Response Percent Count Under $20,000 9 2% 76 $20,001 - 35,000 13 8% 114 $35,001 - 50,000 15 2% 126 $50,001-65,000 11 6% 96 $65,001- 85,000 11 0% 91 $80,001 - 100,000 10 1% 84 $100,001 - 115,000 4 5% 37 Above - $115,000 6 2% 51 I choose not to answer 18 6% 154 answered question 829 skipped question 39 What is your highest level of education? Answer Options Percent Response Percent Count Grade8orless 21% 18 Some High School 3 1% 26 High School Graduate 12 0% 101 Some College Courses 23 7% 200 College Graduate 31 1% 263 Post Graduate Degree 20 4% 172 Some Technical School Courses 1 4% 12 Technical School Graduate 2 7% 23 I choose not to answer 3 6% 30 answered question 845 skipped question 23 86 [Ogg et Varna Past Dens / - . , a ... "(, .# ' • � • " .♦ a 1 . 1 . iii' �� 4 t • j • _ t•ily, 1 r et :1y � -. . In 1 e t �` •� s- 4 "w ••. ." t 1 .� r•..a _14f. •' , ... - ` -'•t• t 1 I ' . b 4 t •- : ' �t • � s ! � •. ] . � .1 _ ;yc E• ` " Litt- kW : - • 7 ../ . t • d ' a J. L 4 •4 - - t .t, • -`� � f + .• • • y : i + '4,' ..: .I ! •'i r :i t- L. ..- .l . .. a •••. T } h a •. t 'V 1 lac i r 4 1 till 1 — _ _ 87 Pai I •s� +f ion Chapter 7 - INDUSTRY STANDARDS, ' . ._ n.- ,<, .: ' DEMANDS, AND NEEDS Yakima Parks and Recreation has along standing policy supporting acquisition and development of park and recreation areas and facilities on a neighborhood community and city wide scale The Division has a similar policy advocating supervised recreation both on its own and in cooperation with other local agencies Determining appropriate levels of service is one of the elements of putting together the plan or blueprint for the future How many parks should there be? How big is big enough? Where are they needed? What recreation is relevant to the community? Is there already enough or do we need more? Like contractors everywhere Parks and Recreation relies on industry standards to guide and measure what development is needed and to ensure adequate service levels Park and recreation standards have traditionally focused on space needs for recreation areas National Recreation and Park Association (NAPA) standards were used in Yakima s Comprehensive Plan s since 1995 The NAPA standards which have been published since 1991 continue to represent a benchmark for space standards at the national and state levels A set of guide posts were adopted in 1973 by the Washington State Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation (IAC) which is now the Recreation and Conservation Organization (RCO) Similar to the NAPA measures these localized standards served for a while However recognizing the different recreational personalities of communities within the diverse geographic extremes of Washington State RCO has directed grant applicants to demonstrate a more relative need for particular services and facilities by basing that need on the desires of their own communities Be that as it may there are a couple of factors that can help provide direction determining the need for park and recreation facilities Service Radius This vanes from neighborhood to neighborhood Travel in neighborhoods of high population density can be difficult with many stop signs little on street parking and generally slow travel speeds It is estimated the service radius within these neighborhoods may be one quarter to one half a mile In less densely populated neighborhoods the number of people may reach 10 to 15 people or even fewer per acre In these areas the desirable travel or service radius may extend further to as much as one mile The general consensus is that travel time as opposed to distance is the important factor to consider Space and Number Required Recommended minimums for the amount of park space run between 2 and 5 acres per 1 000 people depending on the size and purpose of the park or facility National recommendations for park size range from a minimum of 3 acres for Neighborhood Parks to 20 30 acres for a Community Park (See NAPA Standards below) Yakima Parks and Recreation s inventory also consists of Mini Parks which are smaller than 3 acres but still 88 included in the calculation with Neighborhood Parks Generally speaking Yakima falls short of the recommended ratio of park acreage to resident The following chart shows the minimum acreage of Mini/Neighborhood Parks and Community Parks compared to actual acreage Yakima has 27% of the ParkAcreage Companson minimum acreage for 600 MimlNeighborhood Parks and 48% of the 500 minimum acreage for 400 Community Parks d 300 The chart also shows 200 the future acreage 100 needs based on 25 year 0 population estimates Minimum Actual which show an Acreage Acreage Future Need increase in population O Mini/Neighborhood Parks 182 50 212 to 106 096 As the O Community Parks 455 218 530 population continues to grow so will the need to develop additional park lands and facilities .As the city continues to expand into the urban growth area it will be important to identify potential areas for park developm ent A comparison of Yakima to other cities in the state of similar size shows Yakima on Muniapal Park Land Companson the lower end of the spectrum The three rota! Acres cities with the closest population to 3440 Yakima are Renton (90 927) Spokane Valley (89755) and Federal Way (89 306) (Source 2010 Census) However Spokane Valley is still a 1094 relatively new city with a limited amount 313 of park land so Bellingham would be the 353 next closest at 80 885 and will be used instead of Spokane Valley for the Yakima Renton Federal Way Bellingham purposes of comparison (91 196) (90 927) (89 306) [80,885) How to fund a significant increase in park land is a major hurdle At a conservative estimate of $35 000 per acre it would cost more than $20 million just for the land needed to bring the city up to NAPA standards Development and construction of facilities would be an additional challenge In the past Yakima Parks and 89 Recreation has drawn funding from a variety of resources — its own budget, lines of credit, contributions, grants and the generosity of the community and local service clubs. However, most of these revenue sources are unpredictable and dependent on the strength of the economy The only other funding source would be impact fees, which is allowed in the State of Washington for purposes of park development. This method has not been used in the past and is not proposed to be used any time soon. Even if financial resources do become available, finding adequate and appropriate property within the city limits will be difficult. Vacant land is at a premium and generally only available in small isolated parcels. Acquiring several adjacent pieces of property to combine into even a mini -park would not only be expensive, but difficult. Fortunately, the open nature of Yakima's geography and its generally sunny skies temper the need to develop a vast park acreage that the national standards recommend or other communities require. It has been noted that the demand for public recreational activities in Yakima is considerably higher than national standards. This is due, no doubt, to a combination of factors including a history of community recreational activity, a relatively young population, a climate conducive to such activities and Yakima's reputation as a regional activity center This high demand for activities can be seen in the heavy use experienced by the city's existing recreation facilities. In terms of specific types of facilities, we have observed the following: Softball Fields: For many years. Parks and Recreation has experienced a need for additional and updated fields, as evidenced by the numbers of teams signing up for city leagues and the number of relegated to waiting lists or turned away for lack of facilities. The on -going expansion of the Gateway Complex at Kiwanis Park will help to remedy this solution. The 3 new fields that are currently under construction will bring the Gateway Complex total to 7 lighted fields. All together, there will be 10 fields in the City NRPA standards require 18 fields, so Yakima will still be below standards: however the additional fields help us get closer Baseball Fields: Yakima currently has one public baseball field suitable for adult baseball. It is unlighted and located within the Little League complex at Elks Park. Adult baseball leagues are no longer offered due to a lack of interest. Elks does have 4 additional fields suitable for youth baseball. Soccer Fields: The city's inventory of soccer fields are utilized on a consistent basis. The fields at Chesterley and Perry Tech see thousands of soccer players each year Fields at local schools and at Ahtanum Youth Park fill in with additional need. While youth teams are able to access fields for practices, there is a shortage of other site suitable for adult teams. Heavy use of the fields makes it difficult for maintenance to keep the fields in playable condition. Additional fields could allow for a longer down time by permitting more than one field to be out of play at a 90 time. NRPA standards only call for 9 fields: however, given the popularity of soccer in Yakima (ranked #2 in recreation program usage from the survey), additional fields would be welcome. Tennis Courts: The City of Yakima has 32 tennis courts. Older courts at places like Franklin Park and Lions are in bad repair The courts do receive a generous amount of use, and with the 12 -court campus as Kissel and additional school courts being built, the inventory should be sufficient. The courts at Lions Park will be rebuilt during the Davis High School renovation proj ect. Basketball/Volleyball Courts: Yakima Parks and Recreation relies on existing community indoor basketball and volleyball courts located at school district facilities for operation of its basketball and volleyball programs. While the school district's number of gymnasiums exceeds NRPA standards. Parks and Recreation would benefit greatly from owning its own facilities. The school gyms have limited availability due to staffing requirements and a preference for youth programs. Ice Hockey /Skating Rink: The City currently has one privately owned ice rink. It would not be economical at this time to have an additional publicly owned facility Golf Courses /Driving Range: The City -owned 9 -hole course, in combination with privately held courses, appears to meet the current public need. A driving range net was erected at Fisher Golf Course in the summer of 2011 and has received ample use. Outdoor /Indoor Swimming Pools: The City has one indoor pool at Lion's which is open year - round and one outdoor pool at Franklin which is open during the summer months. Spray parks at Miller and MILK Parks round out the Cities only water - themed offerings. There was a large amount of need expressed in the survey for additional spray park and pool facilities. Swim lessons were the number one answer for recreation programs at 42° o. Pools and spray parks are difficult to fund due to limited resources and high maintenance costs. Summary of Park Facilities: Mini-Parks: Usually less than 3 acres, these parks consist of greenspace and minimal amenities such as picnic tables or benches. Mini -Parks are primarily used for passive recreation by residents residing within' a miles. 91 Park Acres Cherry Park 0 49 Fairbrook Islands 2.05 North 44th Avenue Parkway 0 69 Portia Park 0.52 Raymond Park 2.65 Rosalma Garden Club 0 45 South 2nd Street Park 0.52 South 6th Avenue Park 0 17 Summitview Park 0 76 Tieton Terrace Park 0 42 TOTAL 8.72 Neighborhood Parks: Generally greater than 3 acres, these parks consist of open space and can contain additional amenities such as a playground, picnic shelter, or limited active recreation areas such as a basketball or tennis court. These parks are used mostly for passive recreation, but active recreation does take place as well. Most users who frequent these parks live within a '2 mile radius. Park Acres Gilbert Park 11 62 Larson Park 4 66 Martin Luther King Park 4 01 McGuinness Park 1.91 Miller Park 3.96 Milroy Park 3.36 Southeast Community_ Park 3 63 TOTAL 33.15 Community Parks: Usually 20 acres or more, these are well - developed parks which contain a variety of available area for active and passive recreation. Included in this list are several parks which fall below 20 acres: however, the amenities available attract users from throughout the community which is the main intent of a Community Park. 92 Park Acres Chesterley Park 31.20 Elks Park 12.66 Emil Kissel Park 17 00 Fisher Golf Course 18.20 Franklin Park 17 66 Gardner Park 9 13 Harman Center'Gailleon Park 3.52 Kiwanis Park 33 66 Lions Park 4.38 Perry Soccer Complex 15 00 Randall Park 40.25 Tahoma Cemetery 66 West Valley Park 26.20 TOTAL 29 -4.86 Greenway /Pathways: These areas consist of established trails and parkways which generally consist of linear asphalt paths. Pathway Miles Acres Naches Parkway 1.35 5 86 Powerhouse Canal Pathway 2.55 8.85 Walter Ortman Parkway 0.31 0 70 William 0 Douglas Trail 2.09 -- TOTAL 6.30 15.54 Summary: While the amount Yakima's Parks and Recreation facilities. for the most part. lie below industry standards. we strive to maintain high quality and availability in park lands. As additional funds become available and projects present themselves. we will do our best to bridge the gap between current numbers and optimal standards. Paramount in our effort will be implementing those projects which received the greatest amount of input from our survey (see chapter 6) such as Walking/Nature Trails. Swimming Pools /Water Features. and Pathways. Even with the lower numbers presented above. Yakima citizens do have the advantage of being close to a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities with easy access to the Cascade Mountains to the west and multitude of River and Lake access to the east. In addition. a generally favorable climate in the spring. sununer and fall months provide greater opportunity to recreate outside than other cities west of the mountains which receive a substantially greater amount of rain. 93 NRPA Standards: The following standards are from the National Recreation and Parks Association. Community Parks 1 4 -1'2 mile travel 20 -30 acres 5 acres, 1,000 people Ice Hockey 'Skating Rink 1 100.000 people Neighborhood Parks 1 '2 -1 hour travel time 3 -acre minimum 1 to 2 acres, 1.000 people Golf Course /9 hole 1'25.000 people Softball fields 1 '2 -1 hour travel time 1 5.000 people 1 4 -1'2 mile travel Golf Course 18 hole 1 50.000 people Baseball Fields, Lighted 1'2 -1 hour travel time 1'30.000 people Swimming Pool/Outdoor Baseball Fields,' Unlighted 1'20.000 people 1 5.000 people 1 4 -1 '2 hour travel time 1 4 -1'2 mile travel Swimming Pool, Indoor Soccer Fields No requirement 1 10.000 people 1 -2 miles travel Football fields 1'20.000 people 1 4-1'2 hour travel time Tennis Courts 1'2.000 people 1 4 -1'2 mile travel Basketball Court Indoor 1 5.000 people 1 4 -1'2 mile travel Volleyball Court Indoor 1 5.000 people 94 Chapter 8 - CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT Ow e surf ov PROGRAM These priorities represent the principal elements that we want to use to define the future of Parks and Recreation They provide us with a basic structure for operation but leave room for modifications that may be needed as time passes These priorities will serve as a framework upon which to base decisions on future issues and will allow us to make those decisions in a focused well directed manner that responds to the needs and desires of the community as a whole While these pnonties are identified by numbers one through six it should not be construed that this is a mandate to accomplish them in that order A thoughtful balanced approach to meeting all the pnonties using resources available will maximize outcome as well as opportunity for a greater benefit Pnonty # 1 Rep airs, renovations and enhancements to exrstmg developed city parks and facilities Parks and Recreation s inventory of assets presents a valuable and virtually irreplaceable investment in our community Repair and maintenance of those assets and their infrastructure will insure their continued service to the citizens of Yakima well into the future In addition renovations updates and enhancements will help keep property equipment facilities and amenities attractive and current so that citizens and their guests will want to visit city parks and use them for their activities This priority calls for capital repair and maintenance of fundamental park elements such as restrooms tennis courts pathways and parking lots It also mandates periodic renovation of facilities including sports fields and swimming pools that can lose their appeal and serviceability over time without updates In addition those enhancements such as park lighting play equipment drinking fountains additional picnic shelters and landscaping will help keep facilities current as well as attractive and inviting Inherent in this priority are Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodations As improvements to park facilities are initiated they will be designed to make sure ballfields restrooms picnic areas and playground equipment are as accessible as possible to individuals with physical handicaps Parks irrigation systems warrant special attention in terms of repairs renovations and enhancements As maintenance demands and costs have climbed in recent years so has the cost 95 of water and the importance of efficient water usage through research and analysis of appropriate water sources, irrigation techniques, equipment replacement, capital improvements and long - range cost effectiveness studies. Erosion of the park maintenance operations budget of the last few years has led to considerable concern on the part of the Parks and Recreation Commission. Attractive parks are integral to the overall health and vitality of the community They are an essential element of the community image, help set an attractive stage for economic development and offer citizens a tangible municipal benefit. In that light, the Park Commissioners speak for the citizens they represent and call for secure, stable funding to ensure, at a minimum, continuation of the 2011 levels of service and to prevent further reductions in manpower, equipment and supplies. By placing repair, maintenance and enhancement of existing city parks and facilities as the number one priority for the future, the Commission urges the City Council and City Management to provide financial resources necessary to care for this valuable inventory of assets. Priority #2 Acquisition and development of new parks and recreation facilities. Responses to our survey indicated that 51 °0 or respondents think land should be purchased for development of more parks. Of those respondents. ‘17 want new developed parks to be in the "Neighborhood Park" category of 3+ acres. In addition, the vast majority of respondents want to see multi -use parks developed. As Yakima's city limits and the urban planning area's population growth continue, the need for additional park lands and recreation facilities will increase. This is particularly noticeable in the West Valley neighborhoods. Since 2006, approximately 1.900 acres have been annexed into the city, with the vast majority of that land being in the West Valley area. A significant increase in single - family home subdivisions has occurred in the last 5 years, vastly increasing the population in West Valley Park development in West Valley, however, has not kept up with residential increases. West Valley Neighborhood Park, now under City ownership, has no room for physical expansion. West Valley Middle School and Junior High has created new ballficlds, but this does not create new park facilities in other areas which have seen significant population increases. The need to acquire property for future park and open space development is critical as property is consumed for new development and changing land uses. Vacant land within the City has become increasingly scarce, a condition likely to be exaggerated in the western reaches of the urbanized area as development continues. It will be essential to identify resources for property acquisition so Parks and Recreation will be in a position to take advantage of opportunities as they present themselves. In the current environment's limited funding resources, it may become 96 important to consider acquisition of public park and open green space through less traditional means such as creation of incentives to encourage developers to include open space in their planning. Future parks may not look like the ones we are accustomed to seeing. On the one hand, with urban land available only at a premium, neighborhood parks of tlu or more acres like Larson. Miller, or Southeast Community Park may be unrealistic and mini -parks like Tieton Terrace and Summitview that require just a single parcel of land may become more viable options. Development of mini -parks along trails like the Powerhouse Canal Pathway or the Yakima Loop may provide yet another alternative means of bringing recreational space within reach of our citizens. On the other hand, as maintenance costs become an increasingly important budgetary consideration, it may become necessary to focus development on larger community or regional parks with a variety of active and passive elements to concentrate maintenance needs in a few large locations rather than spread out among many smaller ones. The I -82 Corridor and West Yakima are two areas that have been identified in particular need of park and recreation facility development. With the number of considerations that will need to be accommodated in future development, this priority also requires strategic thinking on the part of Parks and Recreation in order to be prepared for opportunities that may come available in the future. Large tracts of vacant land such as the Gateway Mill District (formally the Boise Cascade Mill Property) and the Congdon Property are potential areas for large -scale (Community Park) future developments. Priority #3 Development of Urban Pathways. Responses to the survey also included interest in the development of urban pathways and walking trails. As noted in Priority #2. 51 °0 of respondents would like to see additional land purchased for park development. An equal number to those who would like to see Neighborhood Parks developed, which was 47°0, would also like to see the development of Greenways and Pathways. The development of greenways and pathways provides walking and biking corridors, and links citizens to parks, businesses and the greenway Additions to the existing urban pathway system, including the intercity portions of the William 0 Douglas Trail and an extension of the Powerhouse Canal Pathway east to the Naches Avenue Parkway, are highly desirable as are improved connectors to the Greenway at North 40 North 16 and Fair Avenues. Because many jurisdictions and agencies are involved in development of trails and pathways throughout the Yakima Valley and extended locations, it will be important for Parks and Recreation to work cooperatively with other agencies to insure optimum regional development and continuity 97 With the help of grant funding, a portion of the William 0 Douglas Trail has been completed on North 6th Avenue, and work should begin soon on the new Walter B. Ortman pathway which will extend east from McGuinness Park. Priority #4 Preserve and enhance recreational services and programming. In spite of budgetary shortfalls and scale backs, relatively strong recreational programs continue to exist in athletics, golf, aquatics, and senior activities. Programming for youth has continued to a lesser degree although the addition of a recreational specialist spurred new growth in this area. Calling for preservation of 2011 service levels at a minimum, this priority urges expansion of services in the future to ensure attractive and affordable leisure opportunities for Yakima's citizens and to enhance the community's overall quality of life. Programs for youth of all ages should be expanded to bring safe and appropriate activities within reach of all youth, but particularly those within distressed or disadvantaged neighborhoods. Sports and athletic activities should be expanded and coordinated to help attract out -of -town tourism dollars via special events and tournaments. Service outreach for seniors should be developed for the city's eastside neighborhoods. While financial support and conunitment on the part of the city is essential for growth in this service area, it can be augmented with user fees and cooperative efforts with other agencies and organizations to ensure greater availability of recreational services throughout the community Priority #5 Develop and implement resource management programs. The five years has seen significant growth in Yakima's park assets. Parks and Recreation took over control of West Valley Neighborhood Park from the county, significant work has been completed or is still ongoing at Kiwanis: and several parks have seen smaller upgrades in the form of a new picnic shelter, upgraded restroom, or other enhancements. In this midst of significant park additions have been an erosion in Park Operations manpower The result is a delicate balance between service needs and the ability to provide them. Without an infusion of funding for operations for upward adjustments in staffing. Parks and Recreation will need to persist and be successful in its efforts to augment human productivity with equipment updates, capital improvements, and long -range program cost effectiveness to maintain the 2011 levels of service. In addition. Parks and Recreation should plan for its future and develop strategies for permanent funding and for establislunent of a volunteer corps. Formation of a parks foundation would 98 encourage philanthropy and provide a subsidiary mechanism for saving, investing and expending funds for capital improvements. A structured volunteer organization could recruit and retain individual volunteers and organizations for effective and continued assistance in maintenance, special project and community programming. Priority #6 Continue partnerships with local jurisdictions and organizations. Given the current economic times, it is rare to see a park project go forward solely on general fund revenues. The vast majority of projects undertaken in the last 5 -10 years have been funded by a myriad of combinations including city dollars, grant money, and donations. The recent and ongoing development of Kiwanis Park is a prime example of this. The Kiwanis project is only being realized through a partnership which includes the City. Yakima School District, State RCO grant funding, and local service club donations. It is through these great partnerships that projects will be completed now and into the future. Achievement of this priority will be the main driver behind accomplishment of Parks and Recreation's future capital improvement projects. 99 Summary of 2012 -2017 Capital Improvement Needs Funding Acquisition Priority Protect Source Development 'Renovation , _nL, _013 2014 _015 _016 '017 A Park Land Acquisition UM A - - - - - - A Gateway field K2 L /ICI D - 600k - - - - A Kiwams Park Redevelopment LM/D D/R 2 3M - - - - - A Chesterley Park Expand Skatepark LAID R - - 50k - - - A Tennis Court Repair L R 20k - 20k - 20k - A Various Parks Playground Equipment L/D R 20k 20k 20k 20k 20k 20k A Milroy Restroom Replacement L R - 125k - - - - A Lions Pool Bulkhead and Repairs L R - 75k 25k 15k 10k 5k A Randall Park Irrigation Canal Cover L R - 50k - - - - A Randall Park Bridge Replacement L/D R 2( i( 4; - - - - - A General Improvements Fencing, Landscaping L R 1Sk 1Sk 1Sk 1Sk 1Sk 1Sk A Tree /Shrubs pruning, removal and replacement L R 1ok 1ok 1ok 1ok 1ok 1ok A SECC Improvements L R 25k 25k 25k 25k 25k 25k A Tahoma Cemetery Improvements L R 1ok 1ok 1ok 1ok 1ok 1ok A WVCP East Parking Lot Paving L /ICI R 100k - - - - - AB Franklin Pool Improvements and Repair new slide L R - 25k 25k 125k 15k 1 Ok AB Fisher Golf Course Improvements L R 1Sk - 20k - 20k - B Develop Randall Park South L R - 250k - - - - B Franklin and Randall Parks New Shelter L/D R 30k - - 30k- - - B New Walkway Pathway opportunities L AIR 25k - 25k - 25k - C Parking Lot 'Sidewalk Improvements L R 1 o 1 o 1 o 1 o 1 o 1 o C Park Sign replacement L R 1 o 1 o 1 o 1 o 1 o 1 o C Spray Park at WVCP L R - - - - look - C Storage Building at hiwams L R - - 60k - - - C Randall Park — New Restroom L R - - - - l l Ok - Fundmg Source Codes L = Local Funds, D = Donation, M = Itlatching Grant 100 I k k a4. ° 1 APPENDIX A Maps 101 ilk, _ , O_.. maGta. .!��v,,:aa• "1.4:7 ��� iii@ Ir i f � '. � ;Cc,. � ( 1 — "fir < ∎ ∎ =.1. 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'— tni VINIEM _: , 1 1 . ee...1.... n„ I `I .�� 111 tl I ! : : $ mono = i 1 ----. r _ • • ' 1 i MYIUMIfJ E AR �� ::::C 1 i �I 1 J K. I � „� , 444 Cry ofYSluma Yakima Parks .I • L. Powerhouse ;Al l 'III Yana i.ltr LInNs Comprehensive Plan I — i YubM3 U'680 Growth A'99 � GlB60Wa) fah 0 Yakima Jrban Growth Area MAP A -3 1.202.00 r. >m - :x mme —miau0 auulus Tiaii Oute Urgm Growth M.a Pathways & Trails 104 APPENDIX B Survey and Additional Comments Received 105 YAKIMA PARKS AND RECREATION - 2011 CUSTOMER SURVEY SECTION 1- Background Information 1 Do you live within the Yakima City limits? s Yes Li No 2 How long have you lived in Yakima? less than one year ! 4 to 8 years? 1 14 to 18 years? 1 1 to 3 years? 1 9 to 13 years? More than 18 years? SECTION 11 General Park and Recreation Questions - Tell us about your park usage. 1 Which Yakima City Parks do you visit regularly? Please check all boxes that apply. Chevy Park Gilbert Park Milroy Park Chestertev Park t Kissel Park :J Perry Soccer Complex I Elks Memorial Park 1 Kiwanis Park ❑ Powerhouse Canal Pathway I . Fairview Park Larson Park ❑ Randall Park I Fisher Park Golf Course Lions Park & Pool ❑ Raymond Park - Franklin Park Martin Luther King Park ❑ Southeast Community Center Gallleon Park Harman Center McGuinness Park ❑ Summitview Park Gardner Park Moller Park ❑ West Valley Community Park ❑ 2 What type of park and recreation facilities do you and your family use the most? Please check all boxes that apply Baseball Fields Picnic Facilities 1 Swimming Pods Golfing at Fisher Golf Course i Playground 1 Tennis Courts Miller or MLK Spray Park i • Skatepark i Volleyball Courts I Open Space I Soccer Fields 1 • Walking/Nature Trails • Pathway 1 Softball Fields 1 • 3 On average how often do you visit parks? ! 10+ times per month Once per month Very rarely 5 10 times per month 5 10 times a year Never 2 5 times per month Less than 5 times a year 4 What brings you and your family to the park? Location : Organized activities/events 1' Amenities ; Number of people at the park 5 Have you visited the Harman Center? Yes No Ii yes, what programs or events did you participate in? Please check all that appl Cards Saturday Breakfast 1 Rental wedding manioc). banquet etc Games Lunch 1 Billiards Dances Dinner I Coffee Bar SocialMsiting Trips and/or Tours 1 . Organized Groups balmy wrong. acc Computer Room & Classes Enrichment classes peeling, et. I • 6 Have you or a family member ever volunteered at the Harman Center? ❑ Yes ❑ No SECTION 111 Media Questions 1 How do you receive your information regarding part facilities and recreation programs? I Seasonal Program Guide Program Brochure armor rcnWn.etc. 1 • Website I Newspaper Facebook 2 How would you like to receive your park and recreation information In the future? i Seasonal Program Guide Program Brochure soccer softball. etc Website 1 Newspaper Facebook Direct mail TV/Radio Advertising 3 What method do you prefer for the registration of park programs and facility rentals? 1 Mail In Registration I Walk In Registration I Telephone Registration 1 Online registration 4 Have you watched the Parks and Recreation Commission meetings on YPAC? Yes No If Yes, did you find the meeting informative? L Yes No 5 Have you over attended a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting live at City Hall? Yes No 6 What did you find most informative from watching Parks and Recreation Commission on YPAC television? 106 7 What information would you like discussed at Park Commission meetings? 8 Are you in favor of the Parks and Recreation Division selling advertising space in our Seasonal Program Guides to decrease printing costs? L. Yes No SECTION IV - Parks Facility Opinion Questions 1 How important are City Parka end Recreation facilities to you and your (aunty? I Extremely Important Important I No Opinion I Very Important Not Important 2 How do you rate park maintenance? (such as cleanliness, field and equipment condition, mowing, etc.) I Excellent I Average I No Opinion I Good I Poor 3 How do you rate park structures and features? (such as lighting, tables, puking, playgrounds, raatrooma, etc.) I Excellent Average I No Opinion I Good Poor 4 When you visit City Parks, do you feel safe? Yes ! No t Don't Know Undecided If No please tell us why 6 Aro Yakima's Parks meeting your family's local recreational needs? I Yes I No ' Don't Know I ' Undecided If No How can we better serve your recreation needs? 6 What Parks and Recreation amenities would you like to see morn of? Please check all boxes that apply I Baseball Fields 1 Skateparks Volleyball Courts l Open Spaces Soccer Fields Walking/Nature Trails ( Pathways Softball Fields f • Picnic Facilities Swimming PoolsNVater Features ( , Playgrounds Tennis Courts 7 Of the parks and recreation amenities in the previous question. which ONE is most im portant to your family? 8 Please rate the following facilities on how important they are to you and your family Very Important Important Somewhat Important Not Important Franklin Pool Lions Pool Harman Center I I Tahoma Cemetery Fisher Park Golf Course Gateway Sports Complex I i Chesterley Soccer Fields Elks Baseball Fields Kissel Park Tennis Complex 9 Tahoma Cemetery is owned and operated by the City of Yakima. Do you have a family member buried at Tahoma? 1 Yes I No 10 H yes, please rate the burial services that we provided for you and your family I Excellent Average I No Opinion I Good Poor SECTION V- Recreation Programs Questions - Tell us about the recreation programs that you have enjoyed 1 Have you or any members of your family participated in ANY recreation programs? Cl Yes ❑ No 2 Would you or your family members participate in the programs again? ! J Yes LI No 3 If no, why not? - 4 If you do not participate in any recreation programs, please tell us why? 107 5 Which Recreation Programs have you or your family participated in? Please check all boxes that apply 1 Adult Softball League 1 Swim Lessons i Friday Night Glow Ball Outings 1 Adult Soccer League 1 Fitness Boot Camp I Halloween Haunted Trail 1 Adult Basketball League 1 Harman Center Programs 1 ' Youth Baseball League 1 Adult Volleyball League I Golf Tournaments I Youth Soccer League Golf Lessons Golf League 1 Youth Swim Lessons Dodgeball Tennis Lessons 1 Flag Football 1 Free Summer Playground Program Trek n Travel Trolley I Hydro Fit Wood Working Water Walking 1 Beyond the Bell" after school program 6 How would you rate the quality of the recreation program? (Please rate up to 3 Programs) Program 1 write in program name Program 2: write in program name Program 3. write in program name I Excellent • Excellent Excellent 1 Good Good Good Fair Fair Fair Poor Poor Poor SECTION W Customer Service 1 Please rate your telephone interactions with park and recreation staff Excellent Good Average Fair 1 Poor N/A 2 Please rate your face to face interactions with park maintenance staff. Excellent Good Average 1 Fair I Poor 1 N/A 3 Please rate your response to an email question. I Excellent : Good Average ' Fair 1 Poor • N/A SECTION VII - Future Planning Questions - What direction should the Parks and Recreation Division go? 1 Do you think the Parks and Recreation Division should become a Metropolitan Park District if no additional tax dollars are used? (A Metropolitan Park District would be separate from the City The district would manage. control. improve. maintain and acquire park facilities 11 would also operate recreation programs.) Yes I No I Undecided 2 Would you be willing to pay a small tax Increase that could only be used for Parks and Recreation? Yes 1 No 1 Undecided 3 Would you and your family support a small tax increase for specific new park facility? E.g. Aquatic Center Yes I No 1 Undecided 4 Do you think that the costs for recreation programs for youth should be subsidized with tax dollars? :. Yes I No i Undecided 5 Do you think our community should continue providing quality of life services funded by general government revenues? Yes 1 No l Undecided 6 Do you think that the Parks and Recreation Division should build a larger outdoor swimming pool in the future? : Yes 1 No ; Undecided 7 Do you think that land should be purchased for the future development of more parks? Yes l No I Undecided 8 What kinds of new parks should be developed? Community Parks (20+ acres) Neighborhood Parks (3+ acres) Mini Parks (less than 3 acres) GreenwayslPathways No new Parks 9 If you identified the need for new parks, how should they be developed? Open Space Playground Trails/Nature Areas . Athletic Fields Multi -use OPTIONAL SECTION V711 - Demographic Information - Tell us about yourself. All answers are optional. 1 What is your age? 14 or younger ' 30-39 60-69 I 15-19 40-49 i 70-79 I 20-29 • 50-59 80+ 2 How many people live in your house or apartment? 1 2 1 3 1 4 5 1 6 : 7 18 1 9 10 111 + 108 3 How many children live in your home that are under the age of 18? None , 1 12 1 3! 4 1 5 16 or more 4 What is your gender? J Male U Female Li I choose not to answer 5 What is your ethnic origin? Please check all boxes that apply for those living in your home. I African American i Hawaiian or Pacific Islander Other I Amencan Indian Hispanic or Latino i I choose not to answer I Asian i White / Caucasian 8 What is your yearly family Income? 1 Under $20.000 i 550,001. 65,000 5100,001 5115,000 I 520.001 35,000 1 585.001- 85,000 • Above $115.000 $35.001. 50,000 I 585.001 $100,000 1.. I choose not 10 answer 7 What is your highest level of education? Grade 8 or less 1 Some College Courses ! Some Technical School Courses t Some High School I College Graduate ! Technical School Graduate 1 High School Graduate 1 Post Graduate Degree I choose not to answer SECTION IX - Recreation Interests What do you and your family do In your free time? 1 Please check all boxes that apply walking cooking/baking I miniature golf I reading travel 1 basketball TV i play cards baseball 1 movies- at home ! go to the movies 1 softball visiting family t. shopping weightlifting t listen to music 1 fishing I photography f swimming ! play a musical instrument ! hiking 1 bike riding ! sing 1 knitting/sewing /crocheting I gardening 1 bowling ! football surf the web 1 golf 1 running/jogging I watch sports 1 go to concerts 1 scrap booking I exercise ! crafts i dance I cross country skiing ! downhill skiing ! tennis I painting /drawing ! personal watercraft 1 target shooting 1 sculpting ! sower ! horseback riding woodworking ! hunting 1 water skiing/wake boarding electronics 1 telling 1 broadway shows I Rower arranging I collecting 1 ' hockey canoe/kayak f snowmobiling 1 fantasy sports teams I sailboat I martial arts 1 • boxing power boat 1 opera/ballet 1 dog walking 1 home repair 1 camping 1 sledding . spend time with grandchildren 1 social networking facebook 1 church activities 1 board games 1 going out to eat 1 horseshoes . snowshoeing I I 1 I 1 SECTION X - Additional Information Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation 109 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text 1 Aug 24, 2(111 8 44 AM I think we should have some community gardens around town for people who cannot afford to buy fruits and vegetables (they can work in the garden in return for food) Also we need more free activities for children I also believe we should plant fruit trees along the roads instead of other trees that have to be replaced every couple of years, so the homeless can eat 2 Aug 24, 2011 8 31 AM I would love to take my children to the sprinkler park but it is in a neighborhood with high gang activity and numerous registered sex offenders I'm not just guessing either My husband works for YPD Please build a sprinkler park in a safer area Perhaps Kissel or Chesterley 3 Aug 24, 2011 8 15 AM Kids need the parks with pools, organized activities in a neighborhood environment where they can play with friends close to home These opportunities have been taken away from kids today so they roam, get into trouble, meet with people they normally wouldn't "hang with" and lack the funds to be involved in "high end" projects 4 Aug 24, 2(11 8 07 AM No new taxes! Stay out of our lives! That government is best which governs least! 5 Aug 24, 2011 8 04 AM The destruction of hfiller and Washington pools and their replacement in the form of "spray pools" - then the push for an all- purpose "aquatic center" was the worst political decision foisted on the children and taxpayers of Yakima in the history of this city There will never again exist in the future of this city the "quality of life" recreational swimming opportunity those misguided by political ambition destroyed, nor the political will and method of finance to replace them Thanks for the passes to Franklin Pool 6 Jul 28, 2011 4 56 PM We love our parks and look forward to spending much time at them with our grandchildren 7 Jul 19 2011 2 36 PM It would be nice to have a fenced area at Gilbert Park for a dog park It was donated for people and their pets Thanks 8 Jul 14, 2(111 4 24 PM I would like to see more parks personnel m the parks for safety 9 Jul 14, 2(111 4 09 PM None at this time, though thank you for the opportunity 10 Jul 14, 2011 3 04 PM There should be mores security and more fighting Sometimes bathrooms are locked There is a lack of picnic tables and shade Many people drink alcohol and there vandalism The community can work on these issues for the good of all 11 Jul 14, 2(111 1 18 PM The parks are a great way for families to unite! 12 Jul 14, 2011 1 13 PM Yakima needs an indoor pool with a water playground These places are amazing and with how little activities are available, especially in winter, it 110 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text would do great Moved here from SLC Utah and miss all the activity centers for children 13 Jul 14, 2011 10 43 AM Thanks for the survey -very thorough, informative -very professional You re doing a good job of publicizing events Thanks for the swim and golf discount cards good to attract new users Tough to do, but have some visible security at bigger parks, use police cadets in uniform Some people avoid parks because of different nationality 14 Jul 14, 2011 1029 AM Have a police cruiser pass through Kissel Park after posted closing hours, or have existing gate closed as was specified when the park was developed Too much late activity transpires after closing time Especially with no fighting in the area 15 Jul 14, 2( 111 9 59 AM Although no longer raising a family I did have children and grandchildren in Yakima for 35 years I feel it is vitally important to provide recreation facilities for all youth in the City with consideration of size and income of families regardless of location I would gladly contribute taxes for parks or pools accessible to all children and youth Not aquatic center 16 Jul 14, 2011 9 48 Av1 The neighborhoods are not pedestrian friendly and the parks meet this need Also, there are very few safe parks for small children This is apparent by about loam )am at Kissel park when the tows are swarmed by too many children b/c mothers have few outdoor options to entertain children and meet up w other community neighborhood mothers Although I didn t rate some of the pool facilities as important as my children get older, I would like to use them some day 17 Jul 14, 2011 9 17 AM I have to say that I love Kissel park and we use it mostly for dog walking, however, it would be nice to add a longer swing for the grandkids and for me I would love to see exercise stations aroung the path and maybe another shelter spot for more than one Thank you P S -Thank you for the free swim 18 Jul 14, 2011 8 58 AM Boxwood derby s- Contests down Franklin Street (19TH Ave ) Father and son working together to build a derby car Entry and prizes for the fastest and best 19 Jul 14, 2(11 8 49 AM Although my age has slowed me down some, I really believe Parks and Rec are a vital part of my community - including ours It s one of the good things in Yakima 20 Jul 14, 2( 111 8 32 AM It seems like there are not enough places for families and places for our kids to be and be safe from gangs and bad people -there is nothing for poor family s to do or have for their children We get tired of hearing about all the bad things nothing about the good things and spendie things When I was a kid it was hard for parents to come up with 75 cents to go swimming if you have more than one child $2 even if it's a full day is hard to come up with Yakima has poor 111 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text people -they can t take food out of their mouths to pay for non important things 21 Jul 13, 2011 4 52 PM No new or increased taxes to property owners! Thanks for swim and golf coupons! 22 Jul 13, 2011 4 47 PM It is important for the city to have vision for the future and quality of life amenities! 23 Jul 13, 2011 4 42 PM I live next to Elks Park and the parking during little league baseball needs immediate attention as I have had important social security letters and payments delivered late because people block my mail box every time there is a baseball game and I have had my driveway blocked on numerous occasions as well 24 Jul 13, 2011 4 30 PM Would like to see "line dancing" classes at Harman Center 25 Jul 13, 2011 4 27 PM Our parks are over ran by Mexicans Can't go to Franklin pool without being spit at, called names, and as a tax payer it is flat out rude They wouldn't have the parks or pool if it wasn't for my taxes I pay We have scheduled parties at parks to find our space has been taken over by Mexicans when asked to leave they refused How sad!! 26 Jul 13, 2011 423 PM Our town needs to keep our Parks departments running and maintained We need an aquatic center like Moses Lake Yakima s citizens are driving to Moses Lake 27 Jul 13, 2011 4 19 PM Increase the shady area Add more trees Add more ponds Parks should be the place that can cool you off during summer time, and make you feel m tough with nature Please, add the name of the trees I also wonder what the name of each of the trees are This will help educate people 28 Jul 13, 2011 4 10 PM I think the loss of Eschbach park is the saddest thing for families who enjoyed a family outing at such a peaceful setting Guess the County is responsible for this move 29 Jul 13, 2011 4 09 PM The stuff at 'Beyond the Bell' program (Roosevelt Elementary) was very good! Thank you very much They were good role models for youth My child felt safe and always looked forward to spending time at the program 30 Jul 13, 2011 4 04 PIv1 I would love to see a water park here We go to the one in Moses Lake and it is wonderful Yakima deserves a fun place like that and I believe it would generate enough revenue to pay for itself We all need parks so we can enjoy the outdoors 31 Jul 13, 2011 3 54 PM I think Yakima needs a big water park The closest one is Moses Lake Yakima is a big town we need something to keep our youth entertained This will also create revenue and jobs for our community 112 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text 32 Jul 13, 2011 3 52 PM We are Anti Hunting!! Against any "Recreation" of killing animals including fishing and poisoning of birds Please keep this in mind when maintaining your parks Thank you 33 Jul 13, 2(111 3 47 PIv1 We would like to see a water park and soccer fields built on the mill property We have enough shopping malls, etc And maybe a golf course or a field for the Bears Gilbert Park has no playground It is large enough for a shade facility 34 Jul 13, 2011 3 31 PIv1 Thank you for sending this survey I (14 years old) took my time to try to help our community parks 35 Jul 13, 2011 3 06 PM 1- Womens volleyball is huge here How about some large grassy areas and special sand court for outside volleyball" 2-Yakima needs a 50 meter pool 36 Jul 13, 2011226 PM We were very interested in attending the music at Franklin Park - however, could not attend during the week Would love it if activities like this were offered during the weekend Thanks 37 Jul 13, 2011 2 18 PM Make the parks safer and remove all graffiti Don't let the graffiti stay in the parks!!! Randall Park had trees with graffiti right by the parking lot the last time I visited It has been there for a while It no longer feels safe 38 Jul 13, 2011 1 51 PM We need a dog park fenced so dogs could run and play without a leash I take my dog to the park daily I always clean up after hams, but I have to keep him on a leash He would love to run 39 Jul 13, 2011 1 45 PM Consider that many senior citizens are low income Charging people who are just occupying a chair to knit with friends is not fair There is no instruction 40 Jul 13, 2(011 1 35 PM They should put a water park here for the kids it will be fun for them and a zoo park in Yakima These are the things that the kids should be doing next summer and this summer 41 Jul 13, 2(011 11 57 AM Although we do not use the parks and recreational activities I think that they are very important for the health and attractiveness of the community 42 Jul 13, 2(011 11 38 AM Programs to get young people moving on healthy ways 43 Jul 13, 2011 10 52 AM I'm a volunteer driver for low income people who can't drive I make hats and lap blankets for northstar I make hats and scarves for 2 elementary schools I do mailings each month for the Union Gospel Mission 44 Jul 13, 2011 10 0 34 AM I know we need parks, but the cost is what we need to look at I can not afford more taxes, we will have to live with what we have and try to keep them up It is one we can see a return for our limited tax dollars 45 Jul 13, 2011 9 57 AM Thanks for asking - you have my support 113 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text 46 Jul 13, 2(111 9 52 AM Don't sell city parks - county been selling there s, big lost to sell Once its gone, never come back 47 Jul 13, 2(111 9 36 AM Keep kids busy and respect others property 48 Jul 13, 2(111 9 25 AM Yakima has closed too many swimming pools I tried the Franklin Pool with my grandson once The wait was an hour long and we got to use the pool for less than one hour - it was a thoroughly disgusting experience 49 Jul 13, 2(111 9 12 AM We think Ken Wilkinson is doing a great job! Keep up the great work 5(1 Jul 13, 2(111 8 55 AM One park is Cherry Park that has a traffic situation There is heavy traffic down 4th Ave Speeding etc with no consideration for children Drivers often speed straight through 4th Ave and Cherry stop sign Think about dead ending at least one road at small neighborhood parks for child safety If the city would dead - end the street at 4th Ave and Cherry on the north side traffic would have to go around outside streets 51 Jul 13, 2(011 8 39 AM It makes for a good community for everyone to be able to use the parks and rec to the utmost 52 Jul 13, 2011 8 25 AM There should be some kind of education regarding how to keep safe and clean our parks People who break, tag, and litter should have drastic consequences 53 Jul 13, 2011 8 15 AM My family and I live very close to Franklin Park and I would love to say that the concerts that happen during the summer are excellent, but are too short I believe there should be more activities like this that last longer than a week Maybe all summer long so the youth have something to do Thank you 54 Jul 13, 2011 8 10 AM I love and enjoy our parks, you are doing extremely good jobs keeping them clean and we feel safe Thank you 55 Jul 12, 2(011 4 46 PM I think it would be great if there was more water activities and volleyball areas Also, more camping and picnic areas Thank you 56 Jul 12, 2(011 4 26 PM Add more tables and bbq sections add more lighting 57 Jul 12, 2011 4 19 PM Our family is for an aquatic center We ve driven to Moses Lake to use that one Its a great destination stop for people living outside Yakima 58 Jul 11, 2(011 1 47 PM We need to save Eschbach Park -the city should find a way to take it over The county has no common sense! They would rather spend money on putting kids in jail than giving them a safe place to enjoy nature 59 Jul 11, 2(011 12 (19 PM If the City of Yakima ever builds a water park, include mini -golf and/or indoor amusements so it can operate year round Please place signage at Franklin stating that those with passes may come to the front or form a separate line 114 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text Without it, we get dirty looks and one of my kids was physically accosted by an elderly patron who thought we were cutting 60 Jul 11, 2211 10 46 AM All parks should have a couple drinking fountains and maintained restrooms 61 Jul 11, 2011 10 29 AM Thank you very much for sending me this survey 62 Jul 11, 2211 10 23 AM I'm closest to Lion s Park -we both smoke (my husband -he s a disabled vet with a stroke) we are not allowed to smoke there during school Davis HST hours -not even in our car, which severely limits our use According to your letter you sent out even 4300 surveys ( cost 1 08 44cents return postage per survey) with expected minimal returns) –My opinion- money could be better spent on keeping and upgrading existing parks Could also save money without having to print (21 survey s or any literature This is the United States of America, not United States of Mexico 63 Jul 11, 2211 9 53 AM Wouldn t Yakima be a better city if known as the City of Parks then the City of Gangs! 64 Jul 11, 2011 9 28 AM Before we launch into any new park projects we must be sure to be able to financially maintain the facilities we now have-1 e Fisher Park which not only serves as a fun golf course, but as a treasured and coveted green space! ) 65 Jul 11, 2011 9 15 AM I love the fact that we can go out and have an option on what parks to go to I also have my respects and appreciate that the Parks are very well maintained Thank you! 66 Jul 8, 2011 2 00 PM Whenever we visit cities with water parks we treat our kids Several municipality pools with extra features that give discounted rates for in- district residents and higher rates for out of district I'd like to see the same here We would be able to frequent more often if cost of gas and hotels, etc weren t factored in We need something for the kids to do! Make it affordable and draw tourism! 67 Jul 8, 2(11 1 38 PM Swimming pools or an aquatic center first 68 Jul 8, 2(11 11 53 AM Hey -we got half way through this and gave up It s way too long -and reminds us, m part, of a warranty magazine subscription Nice try though 69 Jul 8, 2011 11 45 AM Too many Hispanic gang influences in the area Not safe to go to the parks Nobody likes getting stared down when you re trying to walk your dogs with family 70 Jul 8, 2(111 11 15 AM I think parks are very important to any growing city I think also that Spokane has many beautiful parkas and wish Yakima parks could have been financed and managed as they have! 115 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text 71 Jul 8, 2(111 11 07 AM That dog owners clean up after their pets With the few years I've lived here, I'm still getting to how Yakima 72 Jul 8, 2( 111 10 25 AM Moved here from Rockville, IVID check out City of Rockville s website and programs People lined up for programs thru the city but at contracted locations- gymnastics thru gymnastics plus, dancing - melody lane, karate -yak school of karate 73 Jul 8, 2011 10 12 AM I was on the council for 25 years and feel that parks are a necessary component of City living Just because I am not in favor of participating in team sports does not mean they should not be there We need swimming pools, softball fields, for those that do want them! The more of them the better, just have a few places for me to ride the bicycle! 74 Jul 8, 2011 10 05 AM More summer activities for children, more info on events on or flyers on events going on like at Memorial or at the parks 75 Jul 7 2(111 4 08 PM We don't spend much time at our City Parks - but we always enjoy having them available Some parks on the east side of town seem unsafe to me when I drive by them, I wouldn't picnic there All the parks add to the beauty of our town They give it a special appeal - especially because of the desert that surrounds our city So many orchards are gone - so we need the trees to help keep the air clean I used to eat lunch at Elks Park when I was working - that was always a nice way to interrupt a busy workday 76 Jul 7 2(111 4 00 i PM More shade and picnic tables would improve Kissel Park, as well as the bathrooms getting help Also, I love movies in the park and music in the park I would attend every one and encourage more of that 77 Jul 7 2(111 3 54 PM The existing parks and pools add to quality of life for Yakima residents Public access is important All great cities have good public libraries, museums, and recreation facilities Staff does a good job in Yakima 78 Jul 7 2011 3 42 PM Enforce the "all dogs on a leash" sign at Kissel Park so loose dogs stop attacking my leashed dog when we're running or walking through the park 79 Jul 7 2(111 3 37 PM I have nothing to say but that the parks are great 80 Jul 7 2(111 3 32 PM I would like to see a new baseball stadium for semi -pro baseball - or better yet, the field we have now improved - so we can keep the Bears here in town We need a better booster club for the Bears 81 Jul 7 2011 11 50 AM Too many managers Just need one overall Too many supervisors who walk around - not busy More staff needed to maintain the parks the way they should be Lions Park'Pool area severely neglected 116 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text 82 Jul 7 2(111 11 43 AM We need a waterpark with slides, wave pool, etc 83 Jul 7 2(111 11 34 AM Kissel Park would benefit from fights along the walking trail - it gets dark around 4 3(1- 5 (ii ipm in the winter and it makes it difficult to be active 84 Jul 7 2(111 8 52 AM Water, shade, lush green plants and flowers, fountains 85 Jul 7 2011 8 48 AM It's time we invest in this community s future Note - Lions pool has too much chlorine So much that it bleaches out your suit 86 Jul 7 2(111 8 33 AM Let's work on more things for teens dollar movies, more skateboard parks, water parks - planned activities Thanks for all you do! Lynne Greene Davis HS Teacher Librarian - 949 -116(1 87 Jul 7 2(111 8 25 AM We need more programs for young people, particularly during school vacations Overcrowding and limiting admission to the only public pool is a shame for our city The Harman Center trips and tours could stand a close looking at and a good shake up 88 Jul 7 2011 8 15 AM Feature teen bands and groups for teen dances Have picnic Saturdays in summer for families 89 Jul 7 2(111 8 01 AM Please keep Fisher Golf Park going It is a much needed outlet 90 Jul 7 2011 7 58 AM It is a disgrace that there is no playground at Franklin, the most used park in Yakima 91 Jul 7 2(111 7 5(1 AM Would love to see a dog park in town - not at the Greenway 92 Jul 7 201 7 47 AM We really enjoy the concerts at Franklin Park in the summer 93 Jul 7 201 7 42 AM My kids are still fairly young, so we haven't taken advantage of a lot of the programs 94 Jul 6, 2(111 4 58 PM Some parks aren t clean and sometimes my kids can t play comfortably because dogs are barking at them or there s poop in the grass Also, there aren t enough picnic tables or benches because some people take them although they don t need them Instead of new parks, we need more playgrounds- swings, slides, etc 95 Jul 6, 2011 4 49 PM Taxes need to take care of the property not pay the entrance fees for someone who can t afford it Unfortunately too many people get screwed because money has to be spent on something that if the family really wants they'll work for it Have the money spent on maintaining or making Yakima better 96 Jul 6, 2011 4 43 PIv1 I would like to see if somehow the summer program could obtain a building so kids could still attend when weather is super hot Also, would like for Yakima 117 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text to invest in a waterpark and basketball indoor complex (support AAU basketball like it supports Little League baseball) 97 Jul 6, 2011 4 35 PM It's important not to lose any more parks or pools! Ike area needs another Keep Fisher! Open areas are needed for a city to provide family activities of all kinds 98 Jul 6, 2011 4 28 PM Unfortunately I think a lot of the problems w our parks and recreational activities is that crime ( specifically gang activity) is prevalent in many of them 99 Jul 6, 2((11 4 18 PM Feel very strongly that a water park would bring in lots of tourism for the valley and would provide a local facility for children and families to attend 100 Jul 6, 2011 4 09 PIv1 Better park maintenance is needed There are weeds in the beds, mud on the sidewalks, dry spots on the lawn, cars driving on the lawn, etc We need more open spaces, not swimming pools 101 Jul 6, 2(111 4 07 PM I don t think PR should look to expand considering the trends - financial and participatory- the organization should look for ways to tighten its belt and make sure the City s public spaces are secure - even at the expense of City operated recreation programs 1(Y_' Jul 6, 2011 4 n(( PM Keep Lyons Pool open Many seniors use this pool for exercise 103 Jul 6, 2011 3 49 PM Planning for the parks needs to be better For example, the design on Kissel Park created an area where water pooled -they had to make an area full of rock to solve the problem 104 Jul 6, 2011 3 44 PM Enforce the dog on leash and clean up after dogs At Kissel Park have groups sign up to use basketball court so Mexicans don't dominate every day all day - same with rest of the park Make them clean up after themselves 105 Jul 6, 2011 3 32 PM I feel it is important for swimming pool at Eisenhower is more available for that local area on a day -to -day basis through the summer One central waterpark is more a planned trip and not available to the Western end of town except for those willing to make a long drive or bus ride I don't want that at the expense of local pools Keep our kids busy 106 Jul 6, 2011 3 28 PM Good luck! There can always be more done, but not always is more needed Do the best with what budget you have, but stay on budget 107 Jul 6, 2011 3 27 PM I think it s important to the community to have activities available- although the fund raising required by kids should not be mandatory Puts added stress on some that many need the activity to lessen the stress of a broken home life 108 Jul 6, 2011 3 04 PM The Yakima Parks and Recreation should have more programs in which kids can go kayaking, snowboardmg, and horseback riding for a small fee Or during 118 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text summer every day 109 Jul 6, 2( 111 2 29 PM It would be so nice if in the winter, when it gets dark so early to have a safe outdoor area to walk, well -ht, for example around Chesterley Park I have always though Chesterley Park would be a prime location for a large fountain and music such as Seattle Center We certainly have the warm summer evenings to take advantage of this 110 Jul 6, 2( 111 2 21 PM The concerts in the park at Franklin and Randall are something I look forward to every year They are wonderful entertainment for family gatherings and friends 111 Jul 6, 2011 2 08 PM Would love to see at least one more indoor pool for year round swimming 112 Jul 6, 2( 111 2 02 PM Better night fighting in the Gilbert Park Parking lot - Car break-ins are up 113 Jul 6, 2(111 2 01 PM I'd like for the park restrooms to be clean and for there to be soap available 114 Jul 6, 2011 1 13 PM I'd like to go to the programs and that you have more rules for security at the Parks 115 Jul 6, 2(111 11 14 AM I would appreciate more dog clean up bags, always replenished, in our parks I use my own, but I think greater availability will encourage others to clean up after their dogs I would enjoy more walking areas - longer larger ones - for safe walking not on city streets Would enjoy more music in parks - not just symphony like concerts, but bands of different types of music 116 Jul 6, 2(111 11 07 AM Harman Center was supposed to be free activities for the seniors The Harmans would not like the idea that seniors have to pay to play there or attend activities met to be free for seniors Who keeps track of the money seniors pay to play and attend their activities (participate )° Even the volunteers pay to play cards, etc 117 Jul 6, 2011 10 59 AM I meet at the parks weekly when the weather is nice In fact I've organized a large play group that rotates parks once a week In the summer we get really brave and go to the IvThK water park and or McGuinness and Kiwams new park - they are each such nice parks but I only feel safe w' large groups of people and in the daytime ( morning really) Yakima has many wonderful things to offer but so many are catered to the poor - what about us middle income families that have the need - we would treat the park with respect and value its location 118 Jul 6, 2011 10 28 AM I'd like to see more diversified activities - cooking classes, language classes, crafts - look at the very successful Spokane model [Park Maint Staff] Taking breaks and smoking in parks troubles us! (bad message to youth) 119 Jul 6, 2011 9 23 AM The quality of life benefits of a solid, well- funded, diverse parks program are extremely important to us We strongly support the expansion of the parks 119 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text department to improve the lives of all Yakima residents! 120 Jul 6, 2(11 9 22 AM I would like to see more playgrounds for kids because there are hardly any for them 121 Jul 6, 2011 9 11 AM It could be very nice to get some playground equipment back at Franklin My two year old son and I frequently walk there to play Now there are no swings or slides to enjoy Why were they removed" 122 Jul 6, 2011 8 58 AM I love to take my kids to the park I go to regularly (Kissel) is very clean and safe to take my kids to Thanks for taking the time to send me this survey and for considering us to send it in Spanish 123 Jul 6, 2011 8 49 AM To be flexible for renting or borrowing the soccer fields Sometimes fields are open to use and nobody plays on them 124 Jul 6, 2011 8 40 AM I would like there to be more parks that had more playground areas and picnic tables I'd also like more pools 125 Jul 6, 2011 8 38 AM I am a Sr ( widow) - children grown and most live out of town Though we don't use the parks much I think they are very important to a city and I don't mind being taxed to keep them 126 Jul 6, 2011 8 26 AM We need a place where teens can go and not get involved with drugs They have nothing interesting to do and it would need to be inexpensive, everyone wants to go to the YMCA, but they don t have the money to pay We need activities for after school and in the winter time 127 Jul 6, 2011 8 (13 AM I really appreciate Kissel Park! 128 Jul 6, 20011 7 49 AM We really need an aquatic center I think we need more things to keep kids and teens busy and out of trouble More family activities perhaps 129 Jul 5 2011 5 (15 PM We would like a park that has a swimming pool with water slides and different water features to enjoy and it wouldn t matter if there was a fee for it 13(1 Jul 5 2011 9 54 AM We d like it if there were more playground equipment for kids 1 -3 years of age 131 Jul 5 2011 9 45 AM I think that if they fenced or made camping areas along the canyon towards Ellensburg more secure it would be fantastic They are not safe and it s scary to camp out there It would be nice to have some swimming pools with water slides for adults Thanks for the nice and fun park on Fair Avenue 132 July 2011 9 32 AM I would like it if the people who visit the parks would be more attentive with their doggies when they poop because you re walking along when suddenly you step on it Please be more cautious Thanks 120 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text 133 Jul 1, 2011 3 (13 PM There is a need for a park where dogs can run without being restrained by a leash Appreciate the opportunity to comment 134 Jul 1, 2011 2 57 PM Would be great if there was enough interest to build an equestrian center Otherwise would settle for a waterpark similar to Pendleton, OR 135 Jul 1, 2011 2 41 PM It would be nice to see police offers stop by more There is a lot of drug dealing in the Randall Park parking lots I also frequently see older men without children or grandchildren with them watching little kids playing Very unsettling when this goes on in broad daylight I would never go to any city park in Yakima alone without taking a dog and pepper spray 136 Jun 3(1 2011 4 41 PIv1 Yakima is in strong need to provide more for our children, water parks have been promised for years Why is it that places like Moses Lake or Tn- Cities had the chance for a water park, but Yakima gets denied" No wonder gangs are so big It wouldn t solve the gang problem, but it would certainly help give our kids something to do and keep them safe There is something wrong with leadership 137 Jun 3(1 2011 3 53 PM Get the word out more effectively about programs, activities More obvious security patrols - increase that presence 138 Jun 3(1 2011 3 48 PIv1 When we have family reunions we pay for public park rental space It is not free 139 Jun 30 2011 3 38 PIv1 We would love to see an aquatics center come to Yakima Both for personal use - swim and exercise, and fun a big water slidepark We would love a fence dog park within a family park where we can let dogs run and visit with other pet owners 140 Jun 3(1 2011 3 21 PIv1 More wood shop Less parks! 141 Jun 30 2011 3 18 PIv1 A town or city s parks and social network I or lack of 1 defines it They are building entire metropolitan/urban areas in the south and back east so that people can be together, when Yakima can no longer support its families and athletes and youths positive interactions and activities it will fall prey to gang violence and separation and segregation We won t be a community 142 Jun 3(1 2011 3 17 PM I would like more playgrounds suitable for toddlers who are a little bit too small for the regular playground equipment 143 Jun 3(1 2011 3 08 PIv1 Need have police monitor the skate parks more often Extreme foul language No respect for parents w small children (Chesterley) Felt that the park was basically taken over by the same group of kids all summer 144 Jun 3(1 2011 3 00 PIv1 Keep current parks safe We are at tough economic times Budgets should be kept trim and no extra development until economy improves Government 121 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text needs to have a budget just like all citizens and families, no grown until resources stabilize 145 Jun 3(1 2(111 2 49 PM More sports for young children ages 10 -under Get them started young and keep them involved Then they're less likely to join a gang 146 Jun 3(1 21111 2 48 PIv1 I think the Yakima area would be more attractive and put people of all cultures on the same page if there were more diverse activities for families beyond baseball and soccer -such as adding more clean, safe parkways for thinks like those underlined above as examples (dance, miniature golf, etc I Better advertising/access for all community activities 147 Jun 311 21111 2 33 PM Great cities have great parks! It isn t just quality of life - it s life to our family to be outdoors 148 Jun 30 2011 2 27 PM Parks and Rec does a great job on a limited budget I hope City Council members realize that Parks and Rec not only improves quality of life but makes Yakima a more attractive area and hence provides an important 'hidden' economic benefit 149 Jun 3(1 2011 224 PM I would like to express my dismay at the removal of the playground from Franklin Park The area is full of children Very surprising and odd decision We used to go there 3 or 4 times per week Now we don't go at all 15n Jun 3(1 2(111 2 2(1 PM I am really tired of paying for other people's activities and I am especially tired of paying for information to be printed in Spanish If people want to be American's let them learn the language 151 Jun 3(1 2(111 2 14 PM We love Franklin Park for walking, swimming and listening to music! 152 Jun 3(1 2011 2 (17 PM Yakima deserves a safe place to play in the summer The current splash parks are not safe and because of past issues, we will not be using them this summer Please build one in a safe part of our community!! I would rather travel over an hour to the Tn- Cities so I don't fear for the lives of my children 153 Jun 3(1 2011 2 02 PM Our family is into soccer and I would love a soccer complex built in our city Our both daughters play and its a wonderful sport to keep kids active I also love all the parks in our community 154 Jun 3(1 2011 1 58 PM Do not take out Franklin's grass area to put a music venue there We have the terraces that can be used for seating Do not put a parking area on the 23 ave side of the Franklin Park 155 Jun 3(1 2( 111 1 So PM We really need more off leash dog parks that are more conveniently located 156 Jun 3(1 2(111 1 26 PM more free things for kids, more bathrooms 122 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text 157 Jun 30 2011 1 19 PM I spend a lot of time with my 3 grandchildren ages 9 10 0 and 11 - we enjoy the parks We do our swimming in Naches as it is not so crowded 158 Jun 30 2011 1 15 PM Your survey tends -- in my opinion -- to pit old against young and white against Hispanic We ( older whites ) put in the work and money that paid for these parks, why do we no longer feel comfortable, safe and welcome in them" 159 Jun 30 2011 12 15 PM I don t believe that we need a lot of parks but the more amenities the better Thanks for the free Franklin Pool coupon -we'll use it! 160 Jun 30 2011 11 34 AM More lighting and picnic facilities at MILK park 161 Jun 30 2 011 11 33 AM YPR does a very good job of maintaining our parks and facilities Kissel Park was recently graffitied and I was glad to see it removed promptly 162 Jun iii 2011 11 18 AM I think we need more lighted tracks for walking!! I also think Yakima City can make a lot of money with a water park Kids and adults need something to do in summer Maybe that would help with gangs giving kids more activity! 163 Jun 30 2011 10 0 55 AM I am very concemed about the number of dogs running off -leash at Kissel Park, as well as the overwhelming take -over of the park on weekends by throngs of Latinos, many of whom dress in gangwear - the police are conspicuously absent, by the way The trees at the Tahoma cemetery are graffiti -ised, and there is considerable gang activity at the site In other words, the Yakima citizenry is losing its parks to the gangs!! 164 Jun 30 2011 10 48 AM Park program, information on what is happening and inform general public Not everyone has cable tv or computers! 165 Jun 30 2011 10 40 AM Children need access to pools and swimming lessons Earlier generations had these benefits while many children today don t I'd be willing to pay a tax specifically to support this cause Other cities have common garden space, is that in our purview 166 Jun 30 2011 10 0 30 AM There s not enough offered west of 40th Not everyone wants to go to the east side of town where the majority of gangs hang out I would go to parks more often if they weren t so far 167 Jun 30 2011 10 11 AM Suggest a dog park at Franklin Owners let dogs off leashes making it uncomfortable to utilize the park 168 Jun 30 2011 10 05 r I I mostly use Randall Park because of its location ( close to home ) and the measured walking path, pond, and bird life, also, in summer, because of the weekly band concerts I formerly lived in Hawaii where there are a number of city pools and gyms available year round I am disappointed that there are almost no aquatic facilities in Yakima — only 1 pool year round I miss being 123 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text able to swim! 169 Jun 3(1 2011 9 34 AM Please enforce dog leash laws It is currently scary for kids and small dogs because large dogs are running free Maybe open a dog park for off leash and make sure people know it is the only one allowed 1700 Jun 3(1 2011 923 Av1 Even though our kids are grown, I think it is critical that we provide Parks & Rec for our community We absolutely should be able to have an aquatic center woo sacrificing the other pools - especially lions because we need both in/outdoor facilities We need to keep Fisher golf available for kids and families 171 Jun 30 2011 9 22 AM People should pick up their own dog's poop 172 Jun 3(1 2011 9 09 AM More swing sets, basketball courts, horse shoe pits, and pools:water features would be great 173 Jun 3(1 2011 8 42 AM Enclosed heated pool for seniors with arthritic conditions with supervised instructor Dog walking with poop clean up dispenser like Kissel 174 Jun 30 2011 8 41 AM Aquatic Center would be great 175 Jun 3(1 2011 8 28 AM Appreciate prompt attention given graffiti and damages to flag and rest rooms Also keeping up w garbage, thrash and lawns Also encouraging to see police patrol, the more the better!! Most people appear to clean up after their dogs 176 Jun 3(1 2011 8 10 0 AM Yakima's "best" parks are the arboretum and the greenway 177 Jun 3(1 2011 7 57 AM It would be great to see more classes offered - for example, photography yoga, water colorpainting classes, gardening, etc Maybe volunteers would teach them Please keep Lions Pool! ! ! 178 Jun 3(1 2011 7 48 AM Thanks for the passes - but I would have filled this out anyways! I love these! 179 Jun 29 2011 5 00 0 PM Yakima could use a water park, given the hot summers and large population I believe would use it 180 0 Jun 29 2011 4 51 PM Parks are necessary in a community I have visited aquatic parks in other cities while travelling — sometimes just for a good shower They are wonderful especially in winter months 181 Jun 29 2011 4 38 PIv1 I have a son that s 14 months every time we go to any park I notice there aren t many activities or toys he can play on IImon Gap park is the only park that have swings he can use Also, it'd be nice to take him to a park w,water features that s not Miller or Milroy The neighborhood is dangerous, and I don t feel safe at all 124 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text 182 Jun 29 2(111 4 28 PM It would be nice if they would build an mdoor outdoor swimming pool with slides 183 Jun 29 2011 4 05 PM Lions pool dressing rooms and shower are a disgracer Did not agree with closing our good swimming pools We paid for them to be constructed Maintenance costs should be calculated Appropriations should have been in place for maintenance Security at all parks should be emphasized Maybe the churches should maintain Tahoma cemetery like the church does at Calvary 184 Jun 29 2011 3 42 PM I do not understand why you would tear up a good swimming pool like Ike then want to build a new one If you do anything - build a new indoor pool for everyone in winter as well as summer Lions is older than Ike was So replace it Thank you 185 Jun 29 2011 3 37 PM I go to parks as City Parks tennis instructor - 16 years Was Larson Park, then Franklin, and now Kissel 186 Jun 29 2011 3 30 PM I feel Ken is on the right track It will take money Parks don't make money we support parks - give the voters a chance to support parks I'm a very old ex park worker and I feel Ken is like Ed Putnam, he has vision, but his hands are somewhat tied Good luck 187 Jun 29 2011 3 19 PM The city and county need to create more activities for the youth of the valley so they don t get into trouble or turn to gangs, that is why I think a water park would be one solution, but will not solve everything Maybe we should be asking the kids what they would like to see as far as activities they would like 188 Jun 29 2011 2 59 PM I would need more info about the metropolitan district change to support such a change If the change reduces bureaucracy but maintains an equal accountability and access to tax payers I would be for it It seems a high # of park uses have dogs, but compared with other cities there are no "dog parks" Dog Parks attract users of all ages, ethmcrties, and cultures in a very "neighborly" and collegial way I would like to see a quality Dog Park in Yakima and would volunteer labor to construct it A FB, twitter, or text update system would be great to notify the public of events Thank you for soliciting the opinion of the taxpayers Great idea I hope it is useful 189 Jun 29 2011 2 47 PM Thank you for the free pass to the pool and $2 00 i off Fisher Golf - That gave me the incentive to complete this survey! 190 Jun 29 2011 2 28 PM We just want to feel safe at our parks I go to Randall a lot, and there always seems to be drug dealing and gang members hanging out We have not been going there much, as well as West Valley Park 191 Jun 29 2011 2 (17 PM We plan to do tennis, after we get the rackets! Thank you for sending us this form I'll send back the extra! 125 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text 192 Jun 29 2011 1 57 PM Please forward think We keep losing things in Yakima The variety of things to do in Yakima on a regular basis is getting small Water Park Yes! 193 Jun 29 2011 1 33 PM We love P.4 R! 194 Jun 29 2011 1 28 PM With no off leash areas it is not fair to those of us who feel it is in the good health of their dog to exercise and learn to socialize with other dogs The areas need not be large, but fenced & divided in two areas, large dogs and smaller dogs It should have a gravel base with waste stations for each section Thanks you 195 Jun 29 2011 1 24 PM The parks are great but some parks need major restroom upgrades and cleaning It would be nice to have something different like an outdoor water for parks 196 Jun 29 2011 1 11 PM Have lived in Yakima all my life Parks were for everyone now only for Rich ( who buy what they want) or Hispanics who demand get anything they want or they destroy it Gangs own the parks and the town!! SORRY 197 Jun 29 2((11 11 50 AM Keep up the good work, Thanks you Great survey one of the best I have ever seen Direct and to the point 198 Jun 29 2((11 11 47 AM A park for dogs, one that the owner's still must clean up after their pet! 199 Jun 29 2011 11 22 AM As I have already stated, Yakima needs a new safe ice arena in a safer part of town Hockey would really generate revenue for Yakima Please give hockey a go Thank You! 2( Jun 29 2((11 10 11 AM More mtn bike trails needed Frisbee golf courses) 2((1 Jun 29 2((11 10 06 AM More picnic tables/benches/garbage cans would be appreciated I 202 Jun 29 2011 9 35 AM P 3; Recreation should have fish and wildlife connection, because there should be a place close where they are at All fishing place should be known and how to get to them For disabled people to drive down to so they don't have to walk Do not send me stuff in Mexican I'm a American 2((3 Jun 29 2( 111 9 05 AM Parks and Rec should be more advertised to the community I had no idea there were so many parks! Great Job! 2((4 Jun 29 2(111 8 33 AM We are both 84 years old and in poor health, but 3 times a year our children and their family come for a several day visit and practically live at Kissel Park playing tenors and at Fisher Park playing golf My husband usually plays golf with them Thank you for not having to close Fisher Park 2((5 Jun 29 2(111 8 29 AM I love the many opportunities that are available through the Parks Dept 06 Jun 29 2011 8 26 AM Can a hikmg/bikmg trail through the City ( such as new William 0 Douglas 126 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text trail) be part of the parks dept" Need more roads in town that are friendly to bikes More parks with benches to watch and sit while hikers/bikers go by on trails Parents with small children need more wading pools fountains to take children to play 207 Jun 29 2011 8 13 AM Our family lives out of state We have few ties to the community 208 Jun 29 2011 8 10 AM Strongly consider more evening:weekend programs for working families Your programs seem to be tailored towards homes that have a stay at home parent 209 Jun 29 2011 8 06 AM I feel the parks system to a great degree defines the experience of the city residents with the government 210 Jun 29 2011 8 01 AM We need more free active programs for our youth They need something to do 8 -14 I love all the options for the elderly! 211 Jun 29 2011 7 54 AM A dog park west of 16th or 40th would be great! Our biggest concem regarding Yakima parks is the presence of graffiti at Franklin and Tieton [Terrace] parks including the trees, sidewalks, and park benches as well as glass and other garbage on the ground We are also disappointed by the 40+ cars parked on the top of the Franklin Park hill on the lawn as people are sledding Perhaps a temporary fence could be up in the winter' People should not be allowed to drive their cars on a city park Thank you for the survey! 212 Jun 29 2011 7 43 AM Our children are young still so playgrounds are the best thing for them now Once they are older they will most likely participate in other activities Right now we enjoy running on pathways and on the open spaces We live near Franklin and would go there more if there was a nice playground I don't always feel comfortable going to the parks without my husband because of the questionable people that are sometimes there, such as gangs 213 Jun 28, 2011 4 42 PM Communities need green spaces and lots of trees to be a livable community Younger families benefit from sports and activities available to children Parks are an essential part of cities large and small 214 Jun 28, 2011 4 18 PM Volunteer watch dog and help service - identifiable vests 215 Jun 28, 2011 4 13 PM Thank you for asking our opinion! 216 Jun 28, 2011 4 (32 PM My children are very upset with the removal of playground at Franklin That is the park within walking distance of our house 217 Jun 27 2011 4 06 PM I think we can use some older parks or parks with large acreage for future projects 218 Jun 27 2011 3 ;n PM I have 6 grandchildren, I don t feel safe no more taking them to the parks - 127 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text bathrooms no clean, a lot of pets poopoo — gang activities 219 Jun 27 2011 2 57 PM Put Gilbert Park to use Never see more than 4 people there Needs playground 220 Jun 27 2011 2 06 PM We need to have some parks with less activities particularly organized events These parks should be designated as passive parks even though like Franklin, there are tenors courts and a swimming pool The tenors and swimming are in a confined area not interrupting people just lounging or walking in the park 221 Jun 27 2011 1 57 PM Clean up the town of gangs & crime and it would be a great place to live I believe if our town did that more business would come to town Parks and schools are a big draw for families to move into an area So stop the crime and I would support more Parks Eschbach Park should have stayed open & been maintained I spent many wonderful hours there with my kids, sad it is gone! 222 Jun 27 2011 1 40 PM I feel that the adult basketball league needs to be extended in the amount of games 223 Jun 27 2011 10 43 AM I love the idea of small neighborhood parks with a bit of play equipment The decision to tear out the playground at Franklin has totally impacted our time there — we used to go frequently now next to zero even though we live in the neighborhood Love your parks — keep up the great world 224 Jun 27 2011 9 51 AM I love the new park on "d St — great place for lunch downtown 225 Jun 24, 2011 1 15 PM Our parks are wonderful and much needed! Keep up the good world Thank you! 226 Jun 24, 2(111 11 29 AM City parks add to the quality of life for us all Thank you for all you have provided in the past and for planning for the future 227 Jun 24, 2011 9 36 AM I feel we need more things for kids, water parks, zoos, chucky cheese, American Girl Store, more playground toys 228 Jun 23, 2011 4 14 PM Please do a better job of enforcing the dog leash law at Franklin Park and other parks and of enforcing the law requiring owners to pick up their poop 229 Jun 23, 2011 4 (15 Pm Make some of the unused tennis courts into pickelball courts Very fast growing activity for all ages 23(1 Jun 23, 2011 3 55 PM As a parent I like the idea of the spray parks but after visiting several times I have found the areas to be poorly maintained or taken care of I have seen garbage scattered throughout park and piles of feces Unfortunately this is related to users abusing facilities I won t take my children there anymore 231 Jun 23, 2011 3 46 PM Some parks such as hhller Park and MILK Park are the ones located in not very 128 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text good areas (ghetto) These are the ones who have the worst graffiti on picnic tables which we should try harder to decrease Children attend the park for the most part, and are learning to read at a faster pace, and almost everything written on the tables is inappropriate 232 Jun 23, 2011 3 13 PM Volleyball league - it would be nice to have 10 additional minutes before both games to warm up If a game is cancelled due to the gym not being available, please notify the teams We supply shirt sizes at the beginning of the season, so get them right 233 Jun 23, 2011 2 36 PM To develop the Boise Cascade property into a multifunctional aquatics center (mot just a water park) with extra land after parking for athletic fields and/or better yet amphitheater 234 Jun 23, 2011 1 36 PM My family and I recently moved to the area from Lewis County If you have any mformation/brochures of activities or information on local parks please send 235 Jun 23, 2011 11 55 AM Bicycle cops, park workers on electric segway's or electric vehicles It's okay with me to charge a fee for services or activities so long as the service or activity is wanted, needed and used by the community Keep working hard - our community needs your help! 236 Jun 23, 2011 11 45 AM Parks are a quality of life issue and should definitely be a priority Large water parks should be self supporting All materials should only be printed in English This would save sufficient $ $ all by itself 237 Jun 23, 2011 11 11 AM I think the park with restrooms should be opened at all times because there always seem to be locked everywhere I go 238 Jun 23, 2011 9 08 AM We really need an aquatic center to draw in more revenue and so we don't need to always drive to Moses Lake We also need more swings at our existing parks Thank you for putting in swings at Kissel Park Could Parks and Recreation do any kitchen/cooking projects" They did back in the late 196(s and 197( is 239 Jun 23, 2011 9 04 AM I use the parks for walking and walking my dog (many people walk at Tahoma Cemetery) My grandchildren love to swim at Lions Pool and when the price to get in is reduced, it is very crowded I would support an aquatic center that has "year round" pools in addition to outdoor water areas 240 Jun 23, 2011 8 48 AM A nice aquatic center like the ymca in Spokane for west valley area would be awesome! Thank you for coupons to golf and swim - nice touch!! 241 Jun 23, 2011 8 34 AM There needs to be more available programs after Spm I am a single mom and would love to do more with my son but don't get off work until Spm 129 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text 242 Jun 23, 2011 8 25 AM As a senior citizen, I answered some of the questions based on when my children were growing up and now as my grandchildren I firmly believe that we need parks and recreation for our children We definitely need swimming pools or a water park 243 Jun 23, 2(111 8 08 AM I walk on scenic - I would use the pathway if there was secure parking 244 Jun 23, 2011 7 52 AM The present director has greatly improved the attitude of the employees toward the residents of Yakima 245 Jung011 4 17 PM We have been very disappointed in the maintenance of Randall Park It is our favorite park and has the potential to be so beautiful Please consider working on the cleanup and presentation of the marsh areas, secret trails and ponds Maybe use volunteers for some clean up activities 246 Jun 22, 2011 4 (32 PM Would love to see more trails and a playground return to Franklin Park 247 Jun2011 3 59 PM Water park sounds nice, but not if it means closing Franklin and Lions pools I don't want my kids 17 and 19 or future grandkids taking the lousy bus service to the north east side of town Franklin and Lions are within bike, boarding and walking distance Invest money and improve what we have 248 Jun 2011356PM Develop and fund raising programs, community wide and centerpiece a particular park enhancement or development As well a recreation program could be a focus 249 Jun 22, 2(111 3 52 PM More lighting in the parking area 250 Jun 22, 2011 3 17 PM We need a swimming facility in West Yakima Franklin pool is nice, but extremely crowded Please keep prices low for summer programs like sports and swimming lessons We love the concerts and movies in the park 251 Jun 22, 2011 3 07 PM Advertise more via mail so that people new to the area would how what is available through Parks and Recreation 252 Jun 22, 2(111 3 (32 PM I think Kissel Park has the room to put in a water feature Have you been to the one in the Tn- Cities at Columbia Park" Would be nice to have one in our town I have never been to the one at Miller Park and I never will It is not a safe area We need a water feature on the west side of town 253 Jun2011 2 52 PM We must have a water park - Continue venues such as arts in the park, outdoor movies, concerts Need more covered picnic spots at each park 254 Jun 22, 2(111 2 49 PM I had zero idea of many of the programs offered This is a shame, there should be more advertising Studies show people with access to green spaces are healthier Anything we can do to make our community healthier has my vote! 130 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text 255 Jun 22, 2011 2 45 PM We have five adult married children, so it is not likely we would be as concemed for all the amenities presently our 5 families live in Seattle and Portland They have access to a surplus of recreation! It is rather boring in Yakima! Whatever I choose to participate in, I do not mind making my share! Just tired of paying tax $ for those not willing to pay their share! 256 Jun 22, 2011 2 38 PM I do not approve of the expense of printing anything in a language other than English That certainly includes ballots for voting If people come to our country they should accept our values and our language If not, they should return to their own country 257 Jun 22, 2011 2 35 PM I have had a stroke and cannot drive But when my children or grandchildren come to visit, I love to go to local parks for picnics and just to enjoy an area where we can enjoy the outdoors, walk the dogs, etc Parks are important to the welfare of a city and I will continue to support them 258 Jun2011 2 32 PM Try to make a better program or info blitz on the urgent need for dog owners to pick up their dogs poop while they are using the parks 259 Jun 22, 2011 229 PM Enforce the leash law at all parks Enforce the cleanup of all pets, picnics and parties 260 Jun 22, 2011 2 27 PM The parks were a great value to our family of 7 children We are in our 80's now but still want children to have the parks to use 261 Jung01124 PM I grew up in the town of Tieton, WA We had nothing No parks other than the little one in the square It was grass with a few trees Nothing anywhere for kids, we all hated it There is not much to do in Yakima as is We need our Parks I think more outdoor summer movies in the park Allow some vendors in the parks, they will be there observing what is happening, making it safer and bring in revenue Have a dog free park! 262 Jun 22, 2011 2 18 PM We have 9 grandchildren here in Yakima and they all love to be outdoors - They love to go to Randall Park (the duck pond) Chesterley and Franklin Park They like to swing and slide - 2 oldest grandchildren are in high school and they play baseball and football and swim competitively 92 year old mother has played cards at Harman Center for year I thank you for all you do Billy 263 Jun 22, 2011 2 12 PM I'm sorry I couldn't be of more help I do believe parks are very important but unfortunately those children who would benefit most probably wouldn't utilize them I'm referring to gangs Are there any facilities where basketball, baseball, etc can be played in competition without cost to players" I'm kind of "out -of- the- loop" since I'm a great grandmom so these may already be in place 264 Jun 22, 2011 2 008 PM We really enjoy and appreciate the parks in Yakima We need a splash park in West Valley for young kids to enjoy There is nothing out here like it I don't want to drive 20 minutes to a scary neighborhood, and take my two 131 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text preschoolers - alone - to the two splash parks Middle class kids need activities too Thank you! 265 Jun 22, 2011 2 03 PM They need to be kept cleaner and safer Bathrooms and grounds in general need to be maintained better Garbage cans and picnic areas need cleaned Franklin Park is very nice but dog owners need to clean up after their dogs or ticketed! 266 Jun 22, 2011 1 57 PM I would like for there to always be a program:parks It makes Yakima so much nicer if there are non - commercial public places to be 267 Jun 22, 2011 1 51 PM It is important the Yakima Parks and Recreation board of Park Commissioners appoint Hispanic board members We need to understand your vision, mission, goals and objectives We need to participate!be involved in development of your Comprehensive Plan Community needs to be part of setting up your activity calendar for the year Your organization needs to better contract with other organizations Summary the Yakima Community as a whole needs to support financially your organization, but you need to be accountable to the community Call me if you need more information Larry Sanchez 966-0800 u 0 268 Jun 22, 2011 1 43 PM I've used the parks lots when I had a family Neighbor kids need a place for kids and to swim in summer - not a huge, expensive aqua center I think we've always had nice parks Thank You 269 Jun 22, 2011 1 38 PM Dog parks are sorely needed in this city!! Way behind any place we've ever lived ( which is considerable number of cities 270 0 Jun 2011 1 34 PM Please vote no on division of Yakima Co 271 Jun 22, 2011 1 32 PM I spend a lot of time at Yakima Parks with my 3 grandkids We lobe to play frisbee, baseball, hoops, and also enjoy play equipment We love walking the paths and trails and picmcmg We celebrate birthdays and other holidays at the Yakima Parks One of our favorites is the "Haunted Trail" and we've been very disappointed not to have had it last year 272 Jun 22, 2011 1 22 PM I like to walk my dog off leash - so it would be great to have a large park for dogs I believe the more activities available to children and teens and parents will help develop responsible citizens We used soccer for over 15 years and have been proud to show off our parks to visitors!! Good Job!!! 273 Jun 22, 2011 12 30 PM I would like to see some kind of water park in a better neighborhood I do not feel safe going with my children to those parks I think it is NILI: park that currently have water features Not including Franklin Park and Lions pool 274 Jun2011 12 01 PM Need more water spray parks — more playgrounds especially at Franklin — more bike trails, community gardens, research Ft Collins, CO they have an excellent park dept and lots of bike trails A lot of these things I'd love to do but I just 132 Please feel free to add any additional thoughts or ideas you have to enhance Yakima's Parks and Recreation. # Response Date Response Text don t have the money 275 Jun 22, 2(11 11 47 AM Just being able to keep and maintain the parks already here with hopefully no tax increases! I don t feel the parks need to be mowed as often as they do At least not West Valley Community Park — seems hke sometimes I see them mowing unnecessarily often Wages and gas being used I also will say I and my family enjoy the park a lot and our son appreciates the basketball court and nets being maintained! 276 Jun 22, 2011 11 31 AM Please replace the bridges at Randall Park to make access to the nature trail possible Also — replace or repair the bridge at West Valley Parks so kids can play on north side of the creek — also fish from the bridge 277 Jun 22, 2011 11 09 AM More swings at playgrounds, big swings like you see at schools, big swings for kids 7 -10 years old The swings area being removed or there are only 2 swings and 15 kids want to play with them 278 Jun 22, 2011 10 53 AM Have a hard time finding parking at Fisher 133 Dig-Haa oft 2012 -2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan Update yalcimu r acre ton a . oat ctild,ciff,/ Overv an Pur of the Plan Provide guidance to the Parks and Recreation Division over the next 10 years. Continue the planning efforts established in the 2006 -2011 plan, and previous plans RCO Requirement for state grant applications Incorporated by reference into the Urban Area Comprehensive Plan 4* .4 } F3� TF� e£ Update Process This update process began in January 2011. Direction was received from Parks and Recreation Commission on how to proceed. A survey was developed and sent to city residents in June 2011. The summer months were spent compiling survey results and implementing citizen suggestions and concerns into the plan. Three meetings were held to discuss the survey results at the September Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, and at the Harman Center and SE Community Center a. The plan was discussed and reviewed at the monthly Parks and Recreation Commission, and ultimately recommended to the City Council for approval on February 8, 2012. 3H Contents of Plan The plan consists of the following chapters: • Introduction • Community Setting • Park Inventory • Needs and Opportunities • Goals and Objectives • Public Participation • Industry Standards, Demands, and Needs • Capital Improvement Program • Appendices (maps and survey) ,,11 Survey • 4,30o surveys mailed to random city residents, in English and Spanish. 868 returned (20 %) Demographic snapshot of survey respondents: • 19% white /Caucasian, 14% Hispanic or Latino; • 69% Female; 27% Male • 20% ages 50 -59, 19% ages 3 - 39; • 31% college graduates, 23% some college. Franklin (65%), Randall (58 %) and Kissel (33 %) most visited (multiple answers allowed) • Walking /Nature Trails (6o%), Pathways (53%), Open Space (41 %) most used amenities (multiple answers allowed) 5o% of users would like to see an online registration option • 68% would like new park development to be multi -use f 1 Y hP, * p 5 Survey, continued • Future Planning Questions: Should Yakima Parks become an MPD? • 0 0 6o% undecided / 1 /n / n 1 0 o yes, o 0 no, 60 o u dec 3 y > Would you support a small tax increase that could only be used for parks? 47% 26% 27% • 47/ yes, 26/ no, 27/o undecided Would you support a small tax increase for a specific new park facility? • 5o% yes, 27% no, 23% undecided Ufa } Ft9 .vhf. . .i: Community Setting and Park Inventory Increase in 19,222 people since 2000 (2010 Census Data) Increase in approximately 82 acres of park land since previous 2006 -2011 comp plan (largely due to annexation in WV and Kiwanis expansion) 353 acres of park land at 34 locations throughout the City ranging from 0.17 acres (S. 6th Avenue Park) to 40.25 acres (Randall Park), including 6.3o miles of Pathways. Parks staff maintains a variety of amenities including: open space, athletic fields, basketball and tennis courts, playgrounds, walkways, picnic shelters, water features, mature landscaping, parking areas, 1 indoor and 1 outdoor swimming pool, and 1 golf course. Needs and Opportunities - Existing amenities are listed for each park, along with a list of potential future projects. • Maintenance and replacement of damaged or P removed amenities are listed for many of the parks (e.g. Franklin Park Playground). This section will be of paramount importance when grant funds become available or community projects are presented. Goals and Objectives -Provide guidance and justification when considering new projects Building upon the goals and objectives from previous plans Community needs implemented Industry Standards Yakima is below the industry standards in almost all categories for park land and amount of amenities (such as athletic fields, pools, courts, etc.) When compared to other cities of similar size, Yakima has less than half the amount of park land (353 acres). (Renton (813), Federal Way (1,094), and Bellingham (3,440)) Recommendation Staff recommends approval of the 2012 -2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan and adoption of the submitted Resolution.