HomeMy WebLinkAboutRFP - 27408 P1024 PARKS RECREATION POLICY PLAN UPDATEADDENDUM No. 1
P1024 Parks and Recreation Policy Plan Update
City- of Fort Co1fill's
SPECIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT DOCUMENTS
Description of RFP: P1024 Parks and Recreation Policy Plan Update
OPENING DATE: 3:00 P.M. (Our Clock) July 11, 2006
To all prospective bidders under the specifications and contract documents described above,
the following changes are hereby made.
INFORMATION FROM THE PRE -PROPOSAL MEETING JUNE 27, 2006
City staff presented information during the pre -proposal meeting as follows.
A. Evaluation of existing Policy Plan
The City is interested in the Consultant sharing with the City how they "rate" our
existing plan and how our plan can be improved to provide the appropriate direction
for the next ten years. Staff anticipates we do not need a complete re -do of the
existing plan for this update. The build -out of the City will be completed in about
fifteen years.
B. Evaluation of growth/reduction of various activities
This section will help the City understand how recreation is changing and how the
update should acknowledge these changes.
C. Evaluation of Fort Collin's demographics
Staff realizes the City is changing as our demographics change. The aging of our
population along with the City being marketed as a choice retirement location is of
great interest. What other recreation changes will demographic changes bring to us
over the next ten years.
D. Public process
Staff explained the response to this section can have options. A base price could
include just a Consultant staff member attending the meetings with City staff
preparing and presenting the update. Beyond this base level the Consultant could
supply prices for help with graphics, etc. to the upper range of actually preparing for,
organizing and leading the presentation. This method will allow the City to efficiently
utilize the Consultant through the public process.
E. Evaluation of a large outdoor event facility
Staff explained that we presently have this demand and it is difficult to meet with our
existing parks. The City will grow to a final population of about 210,000. Does the
need for larger corporate picnics and other outdoor events continue to increase and
result in more demand and need for such a facility.
F. Evaluation of a ballfield and turf sports complex
Staff indicated that Fort Collins Baseball is presently starting to look at a ballfield
complex. We would expect to fold their effort and info into this update.
215 North Mason Street - 20' Floor - P.O. Box 580 - Fort Collins, CO 80522-0580 - (970) 221-6775 - Fax (970) 221-6707 www.rceov.eom
Reference evaluation (Top Ranked Firm)
The project Manager will check references using the following criteria. The evaluation
rankings will be labeled Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.
QUALIFICATION
STANDARD
Overall Performance
Would you hire this Professional again? Did
they show the skills required by this
project?
Timetable
Was the original Scope of Work completed
within the specified time? Were interim
deadlines met in a timely manner?
Completeness
Was the Professional responsive to client
needs; did the Professional anticipate
problems? Were problems solved quickly
and effectively?
Budget
Was the original Scope of Work completed
within the project budget?
Job Knowledge
a) If a study, did it meet the Scope of Work?
b) If Professional administered a construction
contract, was the project functional upon
completion and did it operate properly?
Were problems corrected quickly and
effectively?
times per year that each basketball/
volleyball player used a gym was 5.8. The
1994 survey indicated that approximately
half (47%) of the people who had an
opinion thought there were not enough
gymnasiums; 60% thought there were not
enough drop -in facilities for youth. The
following pages describe each program in
more detail.
(1) Baslwtball Programs
Organized basketball for both youth and
adults has continued to be a popular
activity with a significant number of
participants. Table 4.5 shows historic
participation in basketball programs.
Youth basketball, particularly at the
elementary school age, has seen an
annual increase for the years 1990-1993;
1994 participation decreased slightly due
to lack of access to enough gyms to
provide the same service level in 1996.
Summer youth basketball has recently
become very popular as has drop -in play,
especially at the NACC and Rolland
Moore Park outdoor courts. The summer
youth program has been a very successful
cooperative effort between City Cultural,
Library and Recreational Services and the
community to organize and support this
program. City staff has stated that the
summer program could double in size if
adequate personnel and facilities were
available.
Other private, non-profit programs (such
as Triple Crown Sports) offer basketball.
In 1994, Triple Crown had 115 basketball
participants in their Memorial Day
tournament. The Fall 1993 NACC
basketball program attracted 342
participants.
Elementary and junior high basketball
programs are held at school gymnasiums.
Practices are held immediately after
school during the week; games are held at
selected school gyms on Saturday
mornings. Gymnasium facilities are in
high demand by a variety of user groups
as well as for school activities. Basketball
and volleyball programs compete for
these facilities. Scheduling has become a
significant challenge.
The Poudre School District allows
gymnasiums to be used for youth
basketball during summer months which
has greatly expanded the participation in
this program. Other than at schools, the
only available public indoor basketball
facilities are at NACC and the Senior
Center. The NACC facility has nearly
reached maximum use capacity, is in need
of repair and is not conveniently located
within the city. The Senior Center places
preference on use by the older age groups
of the population. City staff believes
there is need for a southside community
center with multiple gyms as well as a
permanent gym for youth and teens.
Fort Collins Parka and Recreation Policy Plan
4-8
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(2) Volleyball Programs historic numbers of participants of
volleyball programs. All programs have
Volleyball programs are offered by both generally experienced steady to increased
the City and private dubs/organizations. annual participation over the past five
Combining all programs, the sport is years. The City offers adult leagues and
played year-round. Table 4.6 shows class instruction.
Table 4.6
Historic Numbers of Participants in Volleyball Programs
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-10
Table 4.6 (continued)
1990
1991
300
1992
300
1993
500
1994
750
(outdoor tournaments)
(C) - City sponsored; (P) - Private sponsored
8&. Participation ranges from 60-450 players per event. Indoor tournaments usually draw 150-250 players per
event.
Other smaller private non-profit
volleyball programs/classes are also
available.
Outdoor tournaments are held at sand
and grass courts at Rolland Moore Park,
City Park and Fort Collins High School.
Parking at Rolland Moore Park is a
significant problem, as multiple sports
events are often held simultaneously.
Volleyball programs compete with
basketball programs and other groups for
use of school gyms and the NACC gym.
The City has had to limit participation
and cancel some volleyball programs due
to a lack of facilities. Costs to provide staff
to supervise at up to six different sites per
night are very high.
Private volleyball programs also find it
very difficult to schedule gym time and
have often had to go out of town to find
space.
Volleyball programs and participation
expansion will continue to be limited
until other facilities become available
and/or constructed. The need for gym
space will continue to grow as the
population increases.
b. Cost of Providing Services
In 1994, the net operational cost to the
City was approximately $1.96 per
basketball or volleyball player. When
costs were divided by total participation,
basketball and volleyball cost $0.29 each
time a participant was involved in a
program or dropped in to use a gym. This
is the lowest cost of all programs that the
City offers, primarily because the majority
of the gyms are owned and maintained by
the Poudre School District. The
operations and maintenance costs for the
school gyms were not considered in this
analysis as they are not City costs.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-11
C. Level of Service Comparison -
Gymnasiums
Table 4.7
Comparison of Level of Service Provided
for Gymnasiums by Front Range Communities
d. Conclusions
The City of Fort Collins is slightly below
the average level of service offered by
surveyed Front Range cities for public
gymnasiums. It appears as though the
City is making good use of school gyms,
offering youth programs at almost all
available facilities. Many gyms are not
generally available for adult programs
because they are either not sized for adult
use or they are used by school athletic
teams. As long as the school district
continues to build schools proportionally
to the school age population, there should
be adequate gyms for youth programs.
However, the adult population is
expected tp expand greatly in the next ten
years. There is already evidence that the
existing facilities are at capacity and an
additional gym is currently needed,
especially if the old Fort Collins High
School gyrn, which is now part of a youth
center that is leased from the school
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation PoHey Plan
4-12
district, is no longer available. The 1994
survey also indicated that the general
population believes there are not enough
indoor gymnasiums or drop -in facilities
for youth. It is recommended that the
2. Baseball/Softball Fields
The City uses 49 ballfields for softball and
baseball practice and 25 fields for games.
The fields are primarily City fields;
however, some school facilities are used.
The large majority of practice fields are in
neighborhood
parks and at
elementary
schools. Softball
and baseball
games are
played on a total
of 25 fields,
including 10 in
community
parks and 10 in
neighborhood
parks.
a. Participation Rates and
Perceived Needs
City construct 1 or 2 additional
gymnasiums (potentially associated with
a larger community or youth center), and
renovate or replace the Northside Aztlan
Community Center gym.
surveyed who had an opinion thought
that the City had enough softball fields;
69% thought there were enough baseball
fields. The following pages describe each
program in more detail.
(1) 3aseball Programs
City adult softball game
In 1994, the total number of times that
people participated in baseball and
softball was approximately 111,000 and
133,000 respectively. The number of
individual baseball and softball players
was estimated to be 3,296 and 11,304
respectively. The average number of
times per year each baseball and softball
player used a field was 33.7 and 11.8
respectively. In 1994, 71 % of people
Table 4.8 shows
historic numbers
of participants in
baseball
programs. Fort
Collins Youth
Baseball (FCYB)
and the Men's
Senior Baseball
League provide
programs for 5-
18 year olds and
30 years and
over age groups,
respectively.
Third largest in Colorado, the FCYB
program membership increased from
1,968 in 1990 to 3,171 in 1994; the annual
average increase has been 300 players.
Recreational and competitive leagues are
offered by FCYB. FCYB uses Poudre
School District school fields and 10 fields
within public parks. Only two of the
available fields are lighted, both at City
Park. Games at City Park are held until
the 11:00 p.m. lighting curfew. The senior
league utilizes CSU and Edora Park
baseball facilities;.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-13
Table U
Historic Numbers of Participants in Baseball Programs
Baseball fields, particularly practice fields,
are in short supply. As many as 150
youths have been turned away from
FCYB due to lack of fields. Additional
growth is not possible until more fields
are available. More lighted fields would
allow an increased number of games
played each day and possibly shorten the
FCYB season. Alighted multi -field
complex is desired.
(2) Softball Programs
Table 4.9 shows historic numbers of
participants in softball programs. A 5-
year look at softball generally reveals a
steady annual increase in participation of
this popular sport.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-14
Table 4.9
Historic Numbers of Participants in Softball Programs
(C) = City sponsored (P) s Private sponsored
Port Coffins Parr and Recreation Policy Plan
4-15
Softball continues to attract a high level of
participation, particularly the City adult
league. The number of available fields,
however, has not kept pace with growth
in participation, so fields are in short
supply. City fields are also utilized by
Poudre School District, which places a
further demand for fields. Softball
tournaments are also growing in
popularity. Over the past five years, over
88MO people have participated in
tournaments. Scheduling fields has been
a difficult task for several years and has
resulted in limited opportunities for
increasing participation. Some small
private teams have had to look outside
the city for field use. School facilities are
often used for practice, though many are
not suitable for adult play.
Adult fields receive continual use from
March 1 to November 1. Numerous
team/league organizers stated in their
surveys that a lighted multi -field (6-8)
softball complex is needed. An expanded
program would require additional staff.
b. Cost of Providing Services
In 1994, the net operational cost to the
City was approximately $11.26 and $31.40
per individual softball player and baseball
player respectively. When costs were
divided by total participation (individuals
x the number of times they used a field),
softball cost $0.% and baseball cost $0.93
each time a participant was involved in a
program or dropped in to use a field.
Unlike gymnasiums, the majority of
ballfields are owned and maintained by
the City.
Fort CoMm Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-16
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT made and entered into the day and year set forth below, by and
between THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS, COLORADO, a Municipal Corporation, hereinafter
referred to as the "City" and , [insert either a corporation, a partnership or an individual,
doing business as ], hereinafter referred to as "Professional'.
WITNESSETH:
In consideration of the mutual covenants and obligations herein expressed, it is agreed
by and between the parties hereto as follows:
1. Scope of Services. The Professional agrees to provide services in accordance
with the scope of services attached hereto as Exhibit "A", consisting of ( ) page[s],
and incorporated herein by this reference.
2. The Work Schedule. [Optional] The services to be performed pursuant to this
Agreement shall be performed in accordance with the Work Schedule attached hereto as
Exhibit "B", consisting of ( ) page[s], and incorporated herein by this reference.
3. Contract Period. This Agreement shall commence _, and shall
continue in full force and effect until _, unless sooner terminated as herein
provided. In addition, at the option of the City, the Agreement may be extended for additional
one year periods not to exceed _ (_) additional one year periods. Renewals and pricing
changes shall be negotiated by and agreed to by both parties. The Denver Boulder Greeley
CPIU published by the Colorado State Planning and Budget Office will be used as a guide. .
Written notice of renewal shall be provided to the Service Provider and mailed no later than
ninety (90) days prior to contract end.
4. Early Termination by City. Notwithstanding the time periods contained herein,
the City may terminate this Agreement at any time without cause by providing written notice of
termination to the Professional. Such notice shall be delivered at least fifteen (15) days prior to
the termination date contained in said notice unless otherwise agreed in writing by the parties.
2/9/00
c. Level of Service Comparison-
Baseball/Softball Fields
Table 4.10
Comparison of Level of Service Provided for
Baseball/Softball Fields by Front Range Communities
Fort Collins Parka and Recreation Policy Plan
4-17
d. Conclusions
The City of Fort Collins is well above the
average level of service offered by
surveyed Front Range cities for both game
and practice baseball/softball fields, even
when the cities with exceptionally low
service levels are not factored in. It
appears as though the City is making
good use of school fields, although their
quality is less than the City provides on its
own fields. Many school ballfields have
short outfields and are therefore not
adequately sized for older youth and
adult games. However, they will
continue to be important practice facilities
for all age groups and game fields for
younger children. As long as the school
district continues to build schools
proportionally to the school age
population, there should be adequate
fields for the younger children.
The adult population is expected to
expand greatly in the next ten years and
additional lighted softball fields will be
needed. There is already evidence that
the existing facilities are at capacity and
additional youth basebaWsoftball and
adult softball fields are currently in
demand.
Many games and practices are also
scheduled in neighborhood parks, which
has been identified as a conflict with
neighborhood use after school and on
weekends. If programming of these fields
is reduced, additional fields will need to
be constructed in future community parks
or at a sports complex if the current level
of service is to be maintained.
In other cities, private groups have
stepped forward to either build facilities
themselves or to assist the City financially
to construct ballfields. In 1994,
approximately 70% of the people
surveyed who had an opinion felt the
City has enough ballfields. It is
recommended that the City construct or
potentially be a partner in the
construction of 6 to 10 additional
softball/baseball fields in the next ten
years (year 2005) to maintain a level of
service that is similar to what is offered in
1995. Of these, 2 youth baseball fields
should be adequate given the relatively
slight increase in this age group. The
remainder should be adult softball fields.
3. Soccer/Football Fields
The city currently has 63 soccer/football
fields of various sizes; 32 are owned by
the City, 30 are owned by Poudre School
District, and 1 is owned by a private
school. Of the 63, approximately 60 can
be considered available to the public for
practices and/or games. Three additional
full-size fields are located at high schools
and are generally not available for public
use. Approximately 38 fields are currently
scheduled for games and 13 are full size.
Of the 38 game fields, 32 are City fields, I
is private and 5 are Poudre School
District -owned. A total of 13 of the 32
City fields are in community parks and
the remainder are in neighborhood parks.
The fields at elementary schools and
junior high schools are heavily relied
upon for practices.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-18
a. Participation Rates and Perceived
Needs
In 1994, the total number of times that
people participated in soccer and football
was approximately 122,000 and 22,300
respectively. The number of individual
soccer and football players was estimated
to be 4,275 and 1,060 respectively. The
average number of times per year each
soccer and football player uses a field is
25.8 and 21.0 respectively. In 1994, 791A of
the people surveyed who had an opinion
felt the city had
enough soccer
fields; 97% felt
there were
enough football
fields. The
following pages
describe each
program rn more
detail
(1) Soccer Programs
Soccer participation in Fort Collins has
steadily climbed for the past five years.
Table -1.11 shows historic numbers of
participants in soccer programs. Me
largest club in the state, the Fort Collins
soccer Club (FCS(-), manages all
organized league play within the city .
The club offers youth recreational (ages h-
lq) and competitive (ages 11-19) leagues,
men and women adult leagues and an
adult co-ed league. The club's
Fort Collins Soccer Club youth game
participation
records show an
annual increase
in participation
and number of
teams for a II
leagues over the
past five years.
There were over
3,200 youth and
1,000 adult
soccer
participants as of
September 1994.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-19
Table 4.11
Ifistoric Numbers of Participants in Soccer Programs
1990
Youth
2,591
192
2,319
179
1991
Recreational
2,711
210
2,685
233
1992
3,050
194
2,762
236
1993
3,125
277
2,825
250
1994
3,136
286
3,319
254
1990
Youth
375
23
375
25
1991
Competitive
390
26
330
22
1992
360
24
373
24
1993
402
26
365
24
1994
1
405
25
405
25
1"0
Adult League
300
16
384
20
1991
420
23
392
21
1992
445
24
436
23
1993
476
26
472
26
1994
540
30
505
28
1990
Co -Ed League
Summer
367
17
1991
457
22
1992
545
26
1993
472
24
1994
1 1
1 1
496
1 24
Four field sizes are utilized by the club for
different age groups and leagues.
Regulation field sizes are 30 x 50 yards for
the youth recreation league (ages 6-7), 40
x 80 yards for youth recreational league
(ages 8-10), 65 x 110 yards for youth
recreation and competitive leagues (ages
11-14), and 75 x 120 yards for youth
recreation and competitive (ages 15-19)
and adult leagues. According to FCSC,
the number of existing regulation size
fields for these various age groupsAeagues
is less than needed, particularly the 65 x
110 and 75 x 120 full-size fields. The club
has been forced to shorten game times,
use fields of inadequate size for players'
age levels, and schedule games boo close
together for appropriate warm-up needs.
This field shortage has resulted in a
continuous scheduling challenge that
sometimes cannot be met for practice --
games. All available fields are scheduled
for daylight hours, after school practices
during weekdays, and on weekends for
games.
The FCSC prepared (September 1994) an
analysis of field needs based on current
participation, historic growth and Poudre
School District student enrollment
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-20
population projections up to the year
2004. The PCSC report states that field
need estimates are conservative and
would be higher if proper turf
maintenance was practiced. This report
also states that a minimum of 20 soccer
fields will be needed within 8 to 10 years.
2. Football Programs
City -sponsored football programs have
held generally steady participation rates
over the past five years as shown in Table
4.12. No significant growth has occurred
in youth football since the mid-1980s.
Adult flag football has decreased 50%
since 1986. The popularity in soccer for all
age groups and football injury frequency
has limited growth in football. All
programs are held in the fall.
Availability of fields with good turf for
football is limited in the city due to
competition with soccer. Several
programs have been forced to use softball
and baseball fields that are not ideal for
football play. Both school and park sites
are utilized.
Table 4.12
Historic Numbers of Participants in Football Programs
Fort Collins Parr and Recreation Policy Plan
4-21
b. Cost of Providing Services
In 1994, the net operational cost to the
City was approximately $8.49 and $20.00
per individual soccer player and football
player respectively. When costs were
divided by total participation (individuals
multiplied by the number of times they
used a field) soccer cost $0.33 and football
cost $0.94 each time a participant was
involved in a program or dropped in to
use a field. The majority of soccer/football
fields are owned and maintained by the
City.
c. Level of Service Comparison-
Soccer/Football Fields
Table 4.13
Comparison of Level of Service Provided for
Soccer/Football Fields by Front Range Communities
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-22
d. Conclusions
Although the soccer groups feel that
many more fields are needed, the City of
Fort Collins is well above the average
level of service offered by surveyed Front
Range cities for all sizes of soccer fields.
In fact, Fort Collins offers a higher level of
service than any other surveyed
community. Seventy-nine percent (7976)
of people surveyed in 1994 who had an
opinion felt the city had enough soccer
fields. The popularity of soccer has
greatly increased over the past decade,
but there are signs that demand is starting
to level off. Football programs compete
for fields with soccer, however, there
appears to be an adequate supply for both
soccer and football if scheduling changes
were made and more use was made of
school fields for games. As long as the
school district continues to build schools
proportionally to the school age
population, and they continue to build
soccer/football fields for their school
programs, there should be adequate fields
for the younger children. The adult
population is expected to expand greatly
in the next 10 years; however, adult
soccer is not very popular and doesn't
show signs of increasing significantly over
the next ten years.
Another factor in determining the need
for additional fields is the recent trend to
reduce the amount of programmed
activity in neighborhood parks. Currently
12 of the 13 full-size fields and 25 of the
total 38 game fields are in neighborhood
parks or schools located in the middle of a
neighborhood. If some of these fields
were not available for Saturday games,
there would be an increased need to
construct replacement fields in
community parks.
The soccer club has stepped forward with
a plan to privately construct a soccer
complex north of the city. It is
recommended that the City construct 4 to
8 more full-sized soccer fields in
community parks in the next ten years
and continue to construct at least a junior -
size field for practices and youth games in
neighborhood parks. The number of
fields and associated support facilities and
parking in each park should not exceed
the 40% maximum programmed area as
discussed later in this section. If these
fields were constructed, the total number
of new public fields within 10 years
would be 12 to 16 City fields, plus 2 to
4 additional school fields for a total of 14
to 20 new fields This would provide a
level of service of between 1:1,829 and
1:1,692, which is well above the Front
Range average and still better than almost
all of the other surveyed communities.
The City could also consider becoming a
partner in the construction of the soccer
complex, depending upon the level of
service the City desires to provide.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-23
L Tennis Courts
The City currently has 41 tennis courts
that it programs or that are available for
drop -in play. The courts are primarily
City -owned, with 21 located in
community parks. The majority of the
remaining courts are located in
neighborhood parks.
a. Participation Rates and Perceived
Needs
In 1994, the total number of times that
people participated in tennis programs or
were estimated tD have dropped in to use
a City court was approximately 68,000.
The number of individual tennis players
was estimated to be 9�=. The average
number of times per year each tennis
player used a court was 6.6. In 19941, 86%
of the people surveyed who had an
opinion felt the city had enough tennis
courts. The following pages describe the
tennis programs in more detail.
(1) Tennis Programs
Tennis programs are offered by Cultural,
library and Recreational Services and
through the Fort -Collins Tennis
Association (FCTA). The City program
provides youth and adult classes, youth
team play and drop -in. As shown in
Table 4.14, enrollment in the City's
program remained steady from 1990
through 1992, and then increased by 10%
in 1993. In 1994, the number of
participants dropped significantly. The
number of teams varies from year to year
in the FCTA. There were a total of 12
teams (120-130 players) in 1994.
Tournaments have become very popular,
with 1,500-1,600 and 500-600 players
annually for FCTA and United States
Tennis Association leagues, respectively.
Adult and junior participants in
tournament play have increased the most.
Table 4.14
Historic Numbers of Participants in Tennis Programs
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-24
CSU courts have had to be rented by the
FCTA for large tournaments and Rocky
Mountain kEgh School courts are no
longer available to them. Tournament
play should ideally be held at one site.
This is not always possible due to conflicts
in facility scheduling. The Rolland Moore -
Park Racquet Complex and the tennis
facility at Edora Park are the only City -
owned sites with five or more courts,
which is the number of courts required for
league play. During the peak season of
organized tennis, courts may be difficult
to find evenings and weekends for drop -
in players.
b. Cost of Providing Services
In 1994, the net operating cat W the City
was approximately $7.10 per individual
tennis player. When cats were divided
by total participation (individuals
multiplied by the number of times they
used it) tennis cost $0.94 each time a
participant was involved in a program or
dropped in to use a court.
c. Level of Service Comparison -Tennis
Courts
Table 4.15
Comparison of Level of Service Provided for
Tennis Courts by Front Range Communities
Castle Rock (pop.12,000)
1:1,500
Loveland (pop. 42,000)
1:1,555
Longmont (60)M)
1:2,5W
Thornton (pop. 60,000)
1:2,222
Greeley:(pop.64.092)
1:1,424
Westminster (83,400)
1:5,560
Boulder (pop. 94,706)
1:1,503
Lakewood (pop.13200)
1:2,750
Colorado Springs (pop. 327,000)
1:2,794
Average
1:2,423
Fort Collins (pop. 96,960)
1:2,365
Port COMM Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-25
d. Conclusions
The City of Fort Collins is just above the
average level of service offered by
surveyed Front Range cities for tennis
courts. Many courts are provided by the
private sector, either in private clubs or
through homeowners associations.
Tennis players have expressed some
demand for additional City -owned
lighted courts, and survey data indicated
approximately one quarter of the
respondents think there are not enough
courts in parks. It is recommended that
new neighborhood and community parks
contain enough tennis courts to maintain
the current level of service, with one or
two complexes of 5 lighted courts each,
constructed in the next ten years to
accommodate tournaments and other
group activities.
5. Swimming Pools
The City currently has 3 indoor pools and
one outdoor pool. The school district does
not have any pools and relies on the City
for space for its swim teams.
a. Participation Rates and Perceived
Needs
In 1994, the total number of times that
people swam is estimated to be
approximately 310,000. The number of
individual swimmers was estimated to be
28,000 based on known numbers of
program participants and survey data that
said what percentage of Fort Collins
residents use the pools. The average
number of times per year each swimmer
used a pool was 11.1. In 1994, 52% of the
people surveyed who had an opinion felt
the City did not have enough outdoor
swimming pools; 31 % felt there were not
enough indoor pools. The following
pages describe the swimming programs in
more detail.
(1) Swimming Programs
Public swimming facilities are limited to
three indoor pools — EPIC, Mulberry
Pool and the new Senior Center — and
one outdoor pool at City Park These
pools are used by Cultural, Library and
Recreational Services programs, general
city and area residents, private swim and
water sports groups, Poudre School
District high schools and CSU teams. As
shown in Table 4.16, annual use levels of
the pools have fluctuated significantly
from 1990 to 1993, but the overall trend
has been towards significant increased
growth. Interest in water activities
continues to rise.
Renovation of the Mulberry Pool in 1992
resulted in a significant increase in pool
use, from 10,239 (total participation) in
1990 to over 41,000 in 1993. Functional
and aesthetic improvements as well as the
addition of a children's play/wading area
has made this a popular family facility.
Concern has been raised by City staff
about public use closure of this facility
weekdays from November through May
(3-7 p.m.) for high school swim team
practices. This closure forces all
recreational swimmers and other groups
to use EPIC or the Senior Center.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-26
All notices provided under this Agreement shall be effective when mailed, postage prepaid and
sent to the following addresses:
Professional: City: With Copy to:
In the event of any such early termination by the City, the Professional shall be paid for
services rendered prior to the date of termination, subject only to the satisfactory performance
of the Professional's obligations under this Agreement. Such payment shall be the
Professional's sole right and remedy for such termination.
5. Design, Project Indemnity and Insurance Responsibility. The Professional shall
be responsible for the professional quality, technical accuracy, timely completion and the
coordination of all services rendered by the Professional, including but not limited to designs,
plans, reports, specifications, and drawings and shall, without additional compensation,
promptly remedy and correct any errors, omissions, or other deficiencies. The Professional
shall indemnify, save and hold harmless the City, its officers and employees in accordance with
Colorado law, from all damages whatsoever claimed by third parties against the City; and for
the City's costs and reasonable attorneys fees, arising directly or indirectly out of the
Professional's performance of any of the services furnished under this Agreement. The
Professional shall maintain commercial general liability insurance in the amount of $500,000
combined single limits, and errors and omissions insurance in the amount of
6. Compensation. [Use this paragraph or Option 1 below.] In consideration of the
services to be performed pursuant to this Agreement, the City agrees to pay Professional a
fixed fee in the amount of ($ ) plus reimbursable direct costs. All such fees and
costs shall not exceed ($ ). Monthly partial payments based upon the
Professional's billings and itemized statements are permissible. The amounts of all such
partial payments shall be based upon the Professional's City -verified progress in completing
the services to be performed pursuant hereto and upon the City's approval of the Professional's
2/9/00
Table 4.16
Historic Numbers of Participants in Swimming/Aquatic Programs
The EPIC facility has had significant use
since opening in 1987. Total annual
participation has exceeded 100,000 since
1990, except when the Mulberry Pool
reopened. The facility has become a
tremendous community as well as
regional resource. Various swim meets
are held here too, including both the boys'
and girls' state high school
championships. In addition, the CSU
swimming, diving and water polo teams
utilize EPIC and the other City pools.
Neither the City nor CSU have adequate
facilities for training world -class
swimmers. EPIC is also the only place in
the city with 3-meter diving boards. As
the facility ages, increasing levels of
maintenance and facility repair will be
needed.
Bathhouse, concession and wading pool
improvements were made at the City
Park outdoor pool in the late 1980s.
However, the main pool is in need of
major repair or replacement.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-27
Overcrowding during the summer season
frequently occurs at the City Park public
outdoor pool.
The Fort Collins Area Swim Team (FAST)
utilizes EPIC and a private health club
pool Enrollment in this competitive
swim club is increasing but limited in
future growth due to lack of pool time
and available practice lanes.
People associated with pool -related
programs have stated that available time
and space are severely lacking. City staff
has stated that adequate certified staff is
difficult to find and keep. Staff turnover
rate is a problem due in part to
uncompetitive pay. There are also no
public pool facilities in the southern part
of the city where the majority of growth
in population has occurred. Lastly, a
problem is seen in providing sufficient
pool time to the general public due to
high demand by organized sports.
b. Cost of Providing Services
In 1994, the net operating cost to the City
was estimated at $20.20 per individual
swimmer. When costs were divided by
total participation (individuals multiplied
by the number of times they used it)
swimming cost $1.83 each time a
participant was involved in a program or
dropped in to use a pool.
Fort Collins Parks and Reematbn Poky Plan
4-28
c. Level of Service Comparison -
Swimming Pools
Table 4.17
Comparison of Level of Service Provided
for Swimming Pools by Front Range Communities
d. Conclusions
The outdoor pool at City Park and the
indoor pools are some of the most popular
recreational facilities in the city, as
evidenced by the numbers of people who
use them. In 1991 and 1994, 43% and 52%
(respectively) of the people surveyed
who had an opinion thought that the city
does not have enough outdoor pools. The
City of Port Collins is just below the
average level of service offered by
surveyed Front Range cities for
swimming pools. In some of the other
communities school pools are also
available for public use. Fort Collins
should work with the school district to
determine if a joint use facility is feasible.
As a minimum, an outdoor pool and at
least one additional indoor pool should be
constructed within the next ten years to
maintain the current level of service.
Fart Collins ParU and Recreation Policy Plan
4-29
6. Ice Skating Arena
The City currently has 1 indoor ice skating
arena located at EPIC. No other indoor
facilities exist in the city, and the nearest
ice arena provided by another community
is located in Boulder. The lake at City
Park is groomed as an outdoor rink when
ice conditions permit, however, its season
is usually limited to a few weeks per year
at best.
a. Participation Rates and Perceived
Needs
In 1994, the total
number of times
that people ice
skated was
estimated to be
approximately
174,000. The
number of
individual
skaters was
estimated to be
3,50t1 based on
observations
(1) Ice Skating Prograrns
Ice skating interest and participation in
the United States has significantly
increased over the past decade. The high
success of American skaters in numerous
ice sports and strong media attention has
contributed to this surge in interest. Since
opening in 1987, EPIC has experienced
annual growth in all ice programs and
events. Residents from other cities and
towns in Northern Colorado and
Southern Wyoming use the facility as well
since they do
not have ice
rinks in their
Hockey game at 1,Ph
made by the Recreation staff. This
is supported by national statistics that say
3., fy of the population ice skates. The
average number of times per year each
skater uses EPIC is 49.7. Members of the
figure skating club average 162 times per
year. In 1994, 63% of the people surveyed
who had an opinion felt the city had
enough indoor skating rinks; 56% felt
there should be more outdoor skating
areas. The following pages describe the
ice skating programs in more detail.
communities.
Table 4.18-shows
the number of
individual
participants and
total
participation in
ice skating
programs over
the past five
yea rs.
EPIC supports 1:he largest competitive
figure skating program in Colorado as
well as the state's largest learn -to -skate
program. The Ice Skating Club of Fort
Collins (ISCFC) is the third largest in
Colorado. Total participation for figure
skating in the 1 �CFC program has
increased from 6,579 in 1988 to 24,240 in
1993. Similarly, the learn -to -skate
program went From 10,089 total
participation in 1990 to 22,000 in 1994.
The ISCFC utilizes the ice rink 24 hours
each week of the year.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-30
Total annual participation rates for the
following ice activities is derived by
taking the number of individuals per
program multiplied by the number of
times the activity meets.
Table 4.18
Historic Numbers of Participants in Ice Skating Programs
Port Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-31
'Added 1 night/roeek io schedule in 1994.
Mote: City staff says that a typical ice facility normally acoonwodates a figure slotting club of only 30-60'vwmbers.
EPIC hosts a wide variety of other
programs and events including youth and
adult hockey, CSU hockey, tournaments
and an annual ice show. Northern
Colorado Youth Hockey alone utilizes
24 hours of ice time per week during their
season. This organization has indicated
their program could double if a second
sheet of ice were available. Waiting lists
have grown to 100 and nearly 200 people
for some programs. General recreational
skating sessions during the winter are
frequently crowded, public users often
turned away due to lack of ice space.
Expansion of existing programs and the
addition of new ones is extremely limited
without more ice time.
City staff and other program leaders have
also indicated that the EPIC lobby,
concession and locker/changing rooms are
not adequate in size to properly
accommodate the large number of users.
b. Covet of Providing Services
In 1994, net operating cost to the City was
an estimated $38.36 per individual ice
skater. When costs were divided by total
participation (Individuals multiplied by
the number of times they used it) ice
skating cost $0.77 each time a participant
was involved in a program or dropped in
to use the rink
Port Collins Parka and Recreation Policy Plan
4.32
c. Level of Service Comparison -Ice
Skating Rinks
Table 4.19
Comparison of Level of Service Provided
for Ice Skating Rinks by Front Range Communities
Castle Rock (pop.12,000)
0
Loveland (pop. 42,000)
0
Longmont (60,000)
0
Thornton (pop. 60,000)
0
Greeley (pop.64,092)
0
Westminster (83AM)
0
Boulder (pop. 94,706)
1:94,706 (CU rink not
included -not public)
Lakewood (pop.132A00)
1:132AM (privately
operated)
Colorado Springs (pop. 327,000)
1:163,5W (including
Colorado College)
Average
=7,
Fort Collins (pop. 96,960)
1
d. Conclusions
Although the sample is small, the City of
Fort Collins is above the average level of
service offered by similar communities in
the Front Range. Most other cities do not
have indoor ice rinks. Two of the three
other communities that provide ice rinks
also have a rink associated with a
university or college that relieves pressure
on the public rinks. The third
community's rink is open to the public
but is privately operated. The ice skating
rink at EPIC is at capacity and is in use
approximately 20 hours per day.
However, a relatively small proportion of
the residents of Fort Collins are estimated
to use the facility (total users was
estimated to be approximately 3,500
people). In 1994, 63% of people surveyed
who had an opinion thought that the city
had enough indoor ice skating facilities.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-33
In 1995, city voters turned down (for the
second time) a proposal to fund an
additional ice rink with sales tax revenue.
The citizens of Fort Collins do not appear
to be willing to support City development
of an additional indoor ice rink now or in
the near future. However, development
of a seasonal outdoor rink or providing
skating on more City lakes appears to be
in great demand.
7. Recreation Centers and Other City
Facilities
The City currently has 2 recreation
centers, the new Senior Center and the
Northside Azdan Community Center
(NACC). The Senior Center is not fully
available to all segments of the
community and NACC has limited
facilities. EPIC also includes one meeting
room, but is not considered a full -service
recreation center. Currently the City is
leasing a portion of the old Fort Collins
High School for use as a drop -in youth
center; however, it may not be available
indefinitely given the school district's
intent to sell the building.
The City also has an archery range, a
pottery studio, a domestic farm and a
community building that is located in City
Park
a. Participation Rates and Perceived
Needs
To the extent the data exists, total
participation and number of individuals
who participate in the following programs
is discussed in each section.
(1) Archery Programs
Participation in archery activities has
nearly doubled in the past four years as
shown in Table 4.20. The City's archery
range is open year-round but receives the
most use during the summer and fall
seasons. Primary use of facilities at the
range is by general area residents.
Table 4.20
Historic Number of Participants in Archery Programs
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-34
The Fort Collins Archery Association
(FCAA) does the majority of operation
and maintenance of the range with
assistance (including funding) from the
City. Summer leagues are offered by the
association on Wednesday evenings for
14 weeks. League enrollment is usually
between 50-70 members. Three to four
invitational events are also provided.
A private club — Arrow Dynamics —
offers competitive archery events once
each month. Prize money is awarded to
the winners.
The range is also utilized by the Boy
Scouts and 4-H Clubs. Facilities are said
to be adequate at the current time. A
second range, located northeast of the
Boxelder Treatment Plant and adjacent to
the Resource Recovery Farm, is being
considered by the FCAA. This range
would be handicap accessible. A lighted
shelter over the existing practice range
shooting area is also desired.
(2) Dance Programs
The City offers youth and adult dance
classes in ballet, modern, jazz, ballroom,
country, swing and tap dance. Line
dancing and clogging are also offered and
are very popular. Senior dance
participation has fluctuated in recent
years. Classes are currently held at the
new Senior Center, the Youth Activity
Center (YAC) and City Park Center.
(3) Fitness Programs
Fitness program participation declined
each year from 1990 through 1993;
however, participation has increased with
the opening of the new Senior Center.
Fitness/wellness programs at the Senior
Center are offered for persons 18 and
older. Although aerobic equipment is
available at the Senior Center, no weight
training equipment or programs are
offered, but staff believes they should be.
Weight training and aerobics equipment
are available at EPIC, NACC and the
YAC.
(4) Alternative Programs for the
Developmentally Disabled
The number of participants in the City's
alternative programs dropped from 1,842
in 1990 to 878 in 1993. Increased
participation, however, has been realized
since the opening of the new Senior
Center. Securing adequate transportation
for program users has been and will likely
continue to be a challenge. Program
expansion will be possible only with more
staff. A staff therapeutic recreation
specialist is available to work with people
with disabilities and to train other staff
members. More program opportunities
are also needed for disabled youth,
including those that integrate them into
non -disabled programs.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-35
(5) Pottery and Basic Arts and Crafts
Instruction
Pottery and arts and crafts instruction is
offered by Cultural, Library and
Recreational Services and is held at the
Pottery Studio in City Park and the Senior
Center. These programs are open to
essentially all age groups. Beginner
classes are the most popular, but
advanced instruction is becoming more of
a need. Space at the Pottery Studio is
very limited, and program expansion is
not possible without more space and
equipment. People have been turned
away from demonstration programs due
to space shortage. In addition, the Pottery
Studio does not fully meet ADA
standards.
(6) general Interest Program (older adults)
The baby boomer population is
approaching the age of 50+ and
becoming more interested in self-
help/improvement, education and travel
programs. The number of participants
grew from 492 in 1990 to 719 in 1993.
b. Cost of Providing Services
A cost analysis was developed only for the -
largest facility for which cost information
was available, the NACC. In 1994, the
net operating cost to the City was an
estimated $35.21 per user of NACC.
When costs were divided by total -
participation (individuals multiplied by
the number of times they used it) use of
NACC cost $2.56 each time a participant
was involved in a program or dropped in
t0 use the facility. The $2.56 is the highest
per time cost of any of the facilities that
were analyzed, reflecting the fact NACC
is targeted for lower income residents,
and many of the programs have reduced
fees.
Fort Collins Parka and Recreation Policy Plan
4-36
actual reimbursable expenses. Final payment shall be made following acceptance of the work
by the City. Upon final payment, all designs, plans, reports, specifications, drawings, and other
services rendered by the Professional shall become the sole property of the City.
6. Compensation. [Option 1] In consideration of the services to be performed
pursuant to this Agreement, the City agrees to pay Professional on a time and reimbursable
direct cost basis according to the following schedule:
Hourly billing rates:
Reimbursable direct costs:
with maximum compensation (for both Professional's time and reimbursable direct costs) not to
exceed ($ ). Monthly partial payments based upon the Professional's billings and
itemized statements of reimbursable direct costs are permissible. The amounts of all such
partial payments shall be based upon the Professional's City -verified progress in completing
the services to be performed pursuant hereto and upon the City's approval of the Professional's
reimbursable direct costs. Final payment shall be made following acceptance of the work by
the City. Upon final payment, all designs, plans, reports, specifications, drawings and other
services rendered by the Professional shall become the sole property of the City.
7. City Representative. The City will designate, prior to commencement of work,
its project representative who shall make, within the scope of his or her authority, all necessary
and proper decisions with reference to the project. All requests for contract interpretations,
change orders, and other clarification or instruction shall be directed to the City Representative.
8. Project Drawings. Upon conclusion of the project and before final payment, the
Professional shall provide the City with reproducible drawings of the project containing
accurate information on the project as constructed. Drawings shall be of archival, prepared on
stable mylar base material using a non -fading process to provide for long storage and high
quality reproduction. "CD" disc of the as -built drawings shall also be submitted to the owner in
and AutoCAD version no older then the established city standard.
2/9/00
c. Level of Service Comparison -
Recreation Centers
Table 4.21
Comparison of Level of Service Provided
for Recreation Centers by Front Range Communities
d. Conclusions
The City of Fort Collins is below the
average level of service offered by similar
communities in the Front Range for
recreation centers. In 1994, 60% of people
surveyed who had an opinion thought
that the city did not have enough drop -in
facilities for youth, 47% thought there
were not enough gymnasiums and 46%
thought there were not enough workout
exercise facilities. Additional space for
dance, fitness and other general interest
classes also appears to be lacking. It is
recommended that the City provide a
permanent youth center and at least one
additional full -service
recreation/community center in the near
future.
8. Other Emerging Needs
Public comment and observable trends
suggest several specific activities that are
likely to place increasing demands on the
City's park system. Some of these
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-37
activities are briefly discussed in this
section. Dog owners have expressed a
need for areas where dogs can be
unleashed without creating conflicts with
other park users. Several communities
and. park systems, including Cherry Creek
State Parkin the Denver area, have
established dog use areas where owners
are able to let their dogs run free within
acceptable limits. An increasing
population, conversion of close -in vacant
areas, and leash restrictions on dogs in
parks and natural areas are likely to result
in increasing demands for special areas
where dogs can be exercised without the
limitations created by keeping a dog on a
leash. It is recommended that the City
explore options for creating a park for
dogs either in conjunction with some
existing open lands or in one of the new
community parks that the City will be
developing in the future.
The continuing popularity of skateboard
use and in -line skating are also apparent
in the parks. Increasing demands for
special facilities such as criterium courses,
in -line hockey rinks and other facilities
can be anticipated. For example, the
popularity of in -line skating among CSU
students has led to development of a
hockey arena on the campus. The City
should continue to seek partnerships to
develop the facilities at existing or future
community parks as space and funding
are available.
D. Parks
The major issues that the City faces
regarding parks in Fort Collins are the
following: (1) how many community and
neighborhood parks should be
developed, where they should be located
and how large they should be; (2) how to
ensure that parks are designed to provide
an acceptable balance between
recreational opportunities for all
residents; and (3) how to fund community
parks. The first and second issues are
discussed in this section. Funding is
addressed in Chapter 5, Implementation.
1. Existing Parkland Standards
One way to assess the need for additional
parkland is to apply the current parkland
standards for neighborhood and
community parks. These standards
provide 2 acres of neighborhood parkland
per 1000 population and 4 acres of
community parkland per 1000
population. Using these standards, there
is not currently a great need to purchase
additional parkland because the City has
a reserve of undeveloped land. However,
based on the existing City's policy of 4
acres per 1000 population, a community
park should be developed in the near
future as there is currently more than a
92-acre deficit in developed community
parks. This deficit is anticipated to grow
t D 234 acres by the year 2005 based on
projected population increases in the city
(see Table 4.22). This translates into a
need to develop 2 to 3 community parks
in the next ten years. Recent population
projections formulated by the City
Planning Department assume that the
City may have as many as 150,000 people
by 2015. If this occurs, the city will need
an additional 292 acres of community
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-38
parkland, or three 100-acre parks, at the
current 4 acres per 1,000 population
standard. Suggestions for changing this
standard are discussed at the end of the
Community Parr section which follows.
On a citywide basis, neighborhood
parkland appears to be adequate;
however, some existing residential areas
in the city and Urban Growth Area are
not well served by neighborhood parks.
The need for additional developed
neighborhood parkland is anticipated to
grow to 43 acres by the year 2005, which
translates into 4 or 5 new, 8-10 acre parks
according to current City standards.
However, the actual number of parks
needed may be greater due to their
distribution in the city and new ideas
regarding park size and location within a
neighborhood. This is discussed in more
detail later in this section of the report.
Table 4.22
Parkland Needs Based on Current City Standards
1986 Estimated Population— 85,600
• Developed Acreage in 1986
450
142
308
- Application of Standard
M
M
M
<Shortage>/5urplus
<64>
<29>
<35>
1993 Bstimated Population—100,000
- Developed Acreage in 1995
536
2Z8
308
- Application of Standard
M
2W
M
<Shortage>/5urplus
<64>
28
<92>
2005 Estimated Population —
13S,365 1 53, 228 1 301
- Developed Acreage in 1995 M 2a 512
- Application of Standard <276> <43> * <234>
<Shortage>/Surplus
• Existing undeveloped neighbao►hood parkland 97 acres
•' Existing undeveloped community parkland 203 acres
Port Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-39
2. Community Parks
The need for community parks cannot be
solely determined by applying a general
acreage standard. One factor that must be
considered is the desire to provide a better
balance between programmed and
unprogrammed spaces in parks. This has
been a major issue that was identified by
the public, citizen's advisory committee,
Parks and Recreation Board and City
Council members. The amount of
community parkland that will be required
is the amount that is necessary to
accommodate the types of sports facilities
listed in the previous sections, while still
providing adequate unprogrammed area
and other types of recreational uses (e.g.
community gardens, water features,
amphitheaters, picnic areas and
playgrounds).
An analysis was performed to determine
the amount of area in community parks
that should be devoted to facilities and
parking for organized sports programs
(softball, baseball, soccer, football are the
largest) without dominating the park and.
becoming more of a sports complex than a
community park Several parks along the
Front Range were analyzed including
Arapahoe County Community Park,
Westminster City Park, Addenbrooke Park
in Lakewood, and Rolland Moore and City
Park in Fort Collins (see Table 4.23
Comparison of Area Devoted to
Programmed Sports Facilities in Selected
Front Range Community Parks). Arapahoe
County Community Park, which is
essentially a sports complex, has the largest
percentage of area (64%) devoted to
programmed sports fields and parking.
Addenbrooke Park and Westminster City
Table 4M
Comparison of Area Devoted to Programmed Sports Facilities
in Selected Front Range Community Parks
Fort Coffins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-40
Park (which both provide a good balance
between programmed and
unprogrammed space) have 34% and 37%
of area, respectively, devoted to
programmed sports facilities. Rolland
Moore Park which is the City of Fort
Collins' most sports -oriented park, has
40% devoted to programmed sports
facilities and associated parking. Using
these examples, if the City of Fort Collins
desires to have well-balanced community
parks, the City should not develop more
than 40% of each park for programmed
sports facilities and parking.
A second factor to consider when
determining the need for community
parks is the desired level of service, or
total numbers of sports facilities, that the
City will provide. If the City chooses to
build facilities for future population
growth in numbers sufficient to provide
the same level of service that it is
currently offering, the land area needed
by the year 2005 just for the major sports
facilities is approximately 140 acres.
Assuming that a majority of these facilities
are in community parks and that they
occupy a maximum of 40% of the
community parkland, approximately 350
acres of community parkland would need
to be developed in the next 10 years
versus the 234 acres that result from
applying a 4 acres per 1000 population
standard. Developing 350 acres more of
community parkland would result in a
level of service of 4.9 acres per 1000
population standard.
The alternatives to raising the community
parkland standard are building fewer
sports facilities (or forming partnerships
with private entities to build facilities in
other locations) or constructing separate
sports complexes in addition to
community parks. These and other
alternatives related to other aspects of the
parks system were explored in more
detail during the planning process.
A third factor in determining the need for
additional community parks is their
relative distribution in the city. Currently
there are no community parks in the
southwest, southeast or northeast
portions of the city. Undeveloped
parkland exists at two sites — Southwest
and Fossil Creek Parks — totaling
approximately 203 acres. Both of these
sites should be developed in the next ten
years based on population growth
projections. Another community park site
should be acquired and developed in the
northeast, given that this quadrant of the
city is also expected to grow.
Given all three factors, the preferred
direction for providing community parks
is to develop two to three community
parks in the next 10 to 15 years:
Southwest, Fossil Creek and an
approximately 100-acre park in the
northeast. This will result in a relatively
equal distribution of community parks in
the city and enough land to provide a
level of service for sports facilities that is
similar to what is offered presently, while
maintaining adequate nonprogrammed
area in each of the parks. Building these
parks would result in a level of service of
approximately 4.5 acres per 1,000
population by the year 2015.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
"I
3. Neighborhood Parks
The City has kept up with the demand for
neighborhood parks by constructing
6 new parks in the past ten years. To
determine where and how much
neighborhood parkland will be needed in
the future, the amount of parkland per
square mile was compared to existing and
future population within each square
mile, or portion of the city for which
population figures were available. The
analysis was based on the current policy
of providing 2
acres of
neighborhood
parkland per
1000 population.
Both larger and
mini -
neighborhood
parks, as well as
community
parks, were
included in the
parkland totals.
The best
ro
available source Fishing at T
for existing and future
population was the City's Traffic Analysis
Zones (TAZ's), which were developed by
the City Planning Department for the
April 1995 City of Fort Collins Congestion
Management Plan. These zones
correspond to one square mile areas fairly
well, as shown on Map 4.1, Neighborhood
Parkland Need.
Table 4.24 lists all TAZ's within the Fort
Collins Urban Growth Area and shows
population projections for the year 2005,
total neighborhood parkland need,
existing
developed and
undeveloped
parkland and
additional
parkland
needed for each
area. The
population
figures are based
on multiplying
the households
projected for the
utman Park TAZ's by 2.43
persons per unit
(City of Fort Collins Planning
Department).
Fort Cotlins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-42
Table 4.24
Projected Neighborhood Parkland Needs by Area of the City
(based on 1995 policy of 2 acres/1,000 population)
39
236
82
318
0.6
0.6
40
603
1047
I650
33
3.3
41
58
705
763
1.5
1.5
42
73
49
122
0.2
0.2
43
12
2435
2447
4.9
49
44
12
1910
1922
3.8
3.8
45
943
58
1001
2
2
46
637
58
695
1.4
1.4
47
2707
296
3003
6
8.4
109
48
126
117
243
0.5
0.5
52
379
83
462
0.9
0.9
53
1922
278
2200
4.4
4.4
%
2%
134
430
0.8
0.8
1%
2841
542
3383
6 8
%.3
56
403
761
1164
2.3
2.3
57
940
1959
2999
5.8
227
58
1514
2471
3995
8
8
59
34
863
887
1.7
1.7
60
1047
93
1140
23
23'
61
46
0
46
0.1
62
950
5
955
19
0.2
1.7
63
241
14
255
0.5
0.5
64,72v73
1764
448
2212
4.4
24.2
65, 69, 70,
2219
4%
2625
5.3
5.3
71
66
2143
564
2707
5.4
5 4
67
1633
172
1805
3.6
3.6
68
1366
214
1580
3.2
85.2
If.
Port Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-43
r..
Table 4.24 (continued)
74
450
104
554
L1
LI
75
1147
109
Um
25
2.5
76
736
219
955
2
2
77,80,81,
4821
1028
5849
11.7
47
7.0
82
78
1293
143
1436
29
2.9
79, 83, 64
40V
312
4339
6.7
6.7
95,86
6490
970
7460
149
17S
87
4265
709
4974
9.9
23.7
88
770
489
1259
2.5
25
_
90
4780
724
5504
11
7.3
3.6
91
4590
943
5533
11
68
_
92,93
1519
780
2299
46
3
1.6
%, 95
5385
357
5742
115
19.0
96
3878
20
38"
7.8
654
97
722
3713
4435
89
15
96
17
0
17
0
99
182
95
277
0.6
0.6
100
3353
IV
3480
7
7.0
101,102
6442
196
6636
13.3
IA
11.9
-'
103,104
3640
790
4430
83
i2 7
105
4352
732
5064
10.2
15.8
0.5
106
25"
1456
40M
8
123.4
107
3M
400
734
1.5
15
_
108
717
1401
MI
4.2
146
109,I=
184
1086
3900
7.6
19.5
r
III
2928
559
3467
7
34.0
112
1441
413
1854
3.7
115
113
2172
669
2841
51
5.2
05
^
114
83
145
226
05
05
119
671
1589
=W
4.5
45
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
444
Table 4.24 (continued)
A lack of parkland is most pronounced in
the central portion of the city, where there
are large numbers of people and little or
no land available for neighborhood park
development. In the area north of
Prospect Street, east of College Avenue
(TAZ's 77, 80, 81 and 82), this deficit has
been lessened by the recent development
of the 1.9-acre Eastside Neighborhood
Park in 1995; however, this issue
continues W be a challenge to the City.
The following list identifies areas where
there is currently a shortage, or will
potentially be a shortage by the year 2005
for at least 5 acres of neighborhood
parkland.
58
Fast of Lemay Avenue, North of Vine (Lindenmeier Lake Area)
8.0 acres
66
Shields Street, Vine Drive, Taft Hill Road and LaPorte Avenue
5.4 acres
65, 69, 70, 71
College Avenue, Mulberry Street, Shields Street and LaPorte Avenue
5.3 acres
77, 80, 81, 82
College Avenue, Mulberry Street, Prospect Road and Lemay Avenue
7.0 acres
79, 83, 84
CoUege Avenue, Prospect Road, Shields Street and Mulberry Street
8.7 acres
100
Lemay Avenue, Horeetooth Road, ThrdwH ne Road and Drake Road
7.0 acres
101,102
College Avenue, Drake Road, Horsetooth Road and Lemav Avenue
11.9 acres.
.Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Polley Plan
445
This analysis also revealed that in recent
years, the City has been acquiring and
constructing neighborhood parks that are
larger than needed for the neighborhood,
according to the policy of 2 acres per
1000 population. For example, Greenbriar
Park at 22.08 acres in size would be
enough parkland for 11,000 people within
its service area. However this TAZ shows
a projected population of 2,899 people
and a parkland need of 5.8 acres by the
year 2005, when this area is expected to
be mostly built -out. The difference is 16.2
acres. This example is also relevant to
other recently constructed parks,
including Troutman, Overland and
Rossborough. Many recent park
acquisitions have also been larger than
what would be necessary to serve the
projected residents in the neighborhood
they will serve, based on a 2-acre per
1,000 population standard.
One reason that this oversizing of
neighborhood parks has occurred is
because the City has not recently built
community parks and had no other place
to construct sports fields that were in
demand. A reliable funding source
existed for the construction of
neighborhood parks (Neighborhood
Parkland Fund) while only recently a new
fee was approved for community parks.
This community park fee is effective as of
July 1996.
As mentioned earlier, the amount of
programmed sports in parks has been
raised as a concern by many Fort Collins
residents. Neighborhood parks should
continue to be developed as growth
occurs; however, they should be smaller
in size than what has been developed in
the past ten years to more closely
correlate to the 2.5 acres per 1000
population standard. They should also
contain fewer programmed sports
facilities, making the park more attractive
for use by neighborhood residents when
they most want to use the park, during
evenings and weekends.
Another issue that has been identified is
the appropriateness of a half mile service
radius for a neighborhood park The goal
in locating neighborhood parks is to place
a park within walking distance of most
residences in the neighborhood and to
integrate the park into the neighborhood
fabric. In the past, one neighborhood
park has been located within each square
mile of the city, sometimes near the edge
of the square mile, making walking
distances for many residents more than
one half mile. Contemporary subdivision
layouts, with cul-de-sacs and curvilinear
streets may sometimes double the
distance to the park One-half mile is too
far for many people to walk, especially
those with physical disabilities or small
children.
One way to make neighborhood parks
more accessible to neighborhood
residents is to construct more than one
park per square mile. One park would
need to be sized to contain practice fields
(8-10 acres) and 2 or 3 others sized at 1 or
2 acres to result in a total of approximately
10 to 14 acres of neighborhood parkland
in a typical square mile that contains
4,000 people. This would require that the
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-46
9. Monthly Report. Commencing thirty (30) days after the date of execution of this
Agreement and every thirty (30) days thereafter, Professional is required to provide the City
Representative with a written report of the status of the work with respect to the Scope of
Services, Work Schedule, and other material information. Failure to provide any required
monthly report may, at the option of the City, suspend the processing of any partial payment
request.
10. Independent Contractor. The services to be performed by Professional are
those of an independent contractor and not of an employee of the City of Fort Collins. The City
shall not be responsible for withholding any portion of Professional's compensation hereunder
for the payment of FICA, Workers' Compensation, other taxes or benefits or for any other
purpose.
11. Personal Services. It is understood that the City enters into this Agreement
based on the special abilities of the Professional and that this Agreement shall be considered
as an agreement for personal services. Accordingly, the Professional shall neither assign any
responsibilities nor delegate any duties arising under this Agreement without the prior written
consent of the City.
12. Acceptance Not Waiver. The City's approval of drawings, designs, plans,
specifications, reports, and incidental work or materials furnished hereunder shall not in any
way relieve the Professional of responsibility for the quality or technical accuracy of the work.
The City's approval or acceptance of, or payment for, any of the services shall not be
construed to operate as a waiver of any rights or benefits provided to the City under this
Agreement.
13. Default. Each and every term and condition hereof shall be deemed to be a
material element of this Agreement. In the event either party should fail or refuse to perform
according to the terms of this agreement, such party may be declared in default.
14. Remedies. In the event a party has been declared in default, such defaulting
party shall be allowed a period of ten (10) days within which to cure said default. In the event
2/9/00
current policy of 2 acres per
1000 population be increased to 2.5 acres
per 1,000 population. Also, where
desirable and feasible, existing large
undeveloped neighborhood park sites
may be reduced in size to allow for
development of additional smaller parks
throughout the neighborhood. This,
however, may not be possible as it is very
difficult for the City to sell parkland that
people were expecting to have
developed, even if it is being replaced in
the same neighborhood with smaller
parks.
E. Trails and
Natural
Areas
1. Trails
The City's trail
system is
enormously
popular.
Evidence of this
fact can be Poud
found in survey data or through
casual observation of the level of usage on
the trails. On most weekends, the trail
system attracts a steady stream of users —
people of all ages and activity preferences
who come to walk, in -line skate, bike or
move along via just about every known
mode of non -motorized travel. The
survey conducted in 1994 indicated that
78%, of residents used the trail system in a
given year; 39% used it more than W
times in a year. The extraordinary
popularity of the trail system has raised a
number of issues, some of which are
noted below:
Opportunities for leisurely walking
and solitude are increasingly limited.
Should spur
re River'Fraii
trails or
additional trails
be created for
the exclusive use
of walkers?
In a few
areas of the
community,
access to
the City
trail system
is difficult,
requiring
the crossing of major streets or lengthy
travel to get to a trailhead. Novi, that
much of the basic trail network has been
established, greater emphasis should be
placed on improving accessibility.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-47
Although most people prefer a trail
located close to a drainageway and
through the attractive riparian
community it supports, recreational
trail use can adversely affect wildlife
and other natural resources. The
need to carefully locate trails and
manage their use is very important.
Additionally, emphasis must be
placed on avoiding or minimizing
environmental impact of trails.
Although these issues must be addressed
in the continuing development of the City
trail system, its also clear that community
residents are enthusiastic trail supporters
and urge that remaining segments on the
Foudre and Spring Creek trails be
completed, extended and widened during
renovation to address safety concerns.
Additional trails should be constructed
along Fossil Creek and other areas of the
city. Secondary trail connections are
desired to improve opportunities for
north -south travel and to provide shorter
trail loops within the city.
2. Open Lands and Natural Areas
In November of 1995, City residents
confirmed their strong support for the
protection of open lands, natural areas
and trails. In addition to the existing
quarter cent sales tax approved for
natural areas in 1992, the City will receive
revenue from a countywide measure
approved in 1995. The two revenue
sources overlap in 1996 and 1997. The
countywide measure expires in 2003.
Clearly, use of these revenues provides
the City with a major opportunity to
protect important open lands. As the
time for utilizing these additional
revenues approaches, several issues
should be addressed:
The natural areas plan emphasizes
protection of critical habitat values,
rare plant communities and other
natural resources as well as
providing appropriate opportunities
for hiking, fishing, nature study,
environmental education and other
passive recreational uses. As
additional funds become available,
open land goals should be broadened
to accomplish other community
desires such as maintenance of
community gateways and buffers,
protection of scenic views, separation
between communities and
appropriate recreational use and trail
development.
Additional emphasis should be
placed on providing nearby
neighborhood scale natural area
opportunities. In some cases, these
could be developed in conjunction
with neighborhood parks, including
the restoration or creation of natural
areas on lands previously disturbed
by cultivation or some other activity.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-M
0
i
4eI�,`Ie•
� Mi�•n.raa e:
fii ioaeu aawi
n
�-= a-r.:•r�lY�lYiW�i'JL7�pl+.f- •., a.AL�L�+�
\ US
\t•�li`a �3L
1
���r'li I��IIIIGI�II '
Chapter Five
Implementation
Chapter Five
A. Introduction
The recommendations presented in this
chapter establish the overall priorities by
year of implementation for parks and
recreation facility development as well as
the preferred funding mechanism for
each project. This chapter was not
included in the 1988 Parks and Recreation
Master Plan. Although this updated
version of the Parks and Recreation Policy
Plan makes funding recommendations for
all projects, it does not identify specific
amounts from specific funds for every
implementation action. Currently the
Parks and Recreation Department
receives monies from over six funding
sources, ranging from general fund
dollars for recreation, forestry and park
maintenance to dedicated funding
sources for new park site acquisition and
development from two impact fees,
including the new impact fee for
community parks that was adopted in
June 1996. In addition, the new Larimer
County Open Space Tax will help fund
new trails, natural areas -and other open
land acquisitions and development for the
community through 2003. The specific
types of funding sources and approximate
annual budgets are:
General Fund. Annual budget for
Recreation, Forestry, Parks
Maintenance, Cemetery and Park
Planning and Development is
approximately $11.47 million.
Implementation
Conservation Trust Fund (Colorado
Lottery Proceeds). Funding for trails
and open space acquisition,
development, maintenance; annual
revenue - $60W= to $800,000.
City of Fort Collins Natural Areas
Tax (1/4 cent through 1997). Funds
natural areas acquisition,
maintenance and trails - $4 million.
Neighborhood and Community
Parkland Funds. Funds the
acquisition and development of
neighborhood and community parks;
annual revenue estimated at $700,000
to $900r000 for each fund.
Larimer County Natural Areas Tax
(City portion of county 1/4 cent
through 2003). Funds for
preservation and protection of open
space, natural areas, wildlife habitat,
parks and trails - $2.99 million
annually.
Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
In the past, the City has used funds
from C1Ps to acquire, develop,
renovate or replace parks, trails, parks
and recreation equipment and/or
facilities, etc. New CIP funding
sources have not been determined for
the specific projects outlined in this
chapter.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
5-1
Grants, Donations, and Other
Miscellaneous Funds, including GO
Colorado Grants. Portions of all
divisions in Parks and Recreation
receives funding from these sources.
Because these are not predictable
sources for major funding, no specific
amounts are outlined in this chapter.
A new funding mechanism, a park
maintenance fee, is currently being
investigated as a possible way to fund a
portion of the costs of maintenance and
life cycle replacements costs that are
directly attributable to specific park users.
This fee may be rolled into the current
Recreation Fee Policy and will help
support a small portion of the
maintenance costs for programmed sports
uses.
B. Implementation Actions
The estimated costs for all
implementation actions outlined in this
chapter are approximately $109.5 million.
Although this may seem high, the Policy
Plan is comprehensive and identifies
items that will maintain, or in many cases,
increase the level of service for the
community for the next ten years. Major
items that have been identified include
three new community parks, a new multi-
purpose recreation center with an
indoor/outdoor pool, major renovations to
the Northside Aztlan and Youth Centers,
and a new community horticultural
center. Of the 65 implementation actions
recommended, approximately 21 of the
projects have funding from dedicated
sources such as the Neighborhood and
Community Parkland Fees or the
Conservation Trust Fund. These projects
total approximately $31.9 million or 29%
of the total estimated cost.
Funding for many of these projects will be
appropriated annually during the city
budget process. The plan also
recommends the use of grants or
matching funds from partnerships to
offset many of these projects' costs.
Revenues will eventually be generated
from the development of new recreation
facilities, but no dollar amount has been
determined at this time. No debt
financing is identified for any project,
although many of the projects have been
identified as potential items to be funded
through a new Capital Improvement
Program.
Table 5.1 Implementation Actions lists
specific actions and projects, when they
should occur, what City department is
responsible for their implementation,
estimated capital costs and potential
funding sources.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
5-2
U;Z
� SM
ATOP 4 asy �,aqo ..............
Renovate the aristing Old Fat Collins High
✓
RC
PPD
$2 to $6.6
C1P
School facility or construct a new 40-50,000
FC
milliat
OF
e.f Youth Center with gymnasium.
Replace Nocthside Aztlan Community
✓
RC
$7.8
CIP
Center with a new 40-50,000 e.f. multi-
FC
million
OF
purpose remotion center in north area of
town.
Undertake a feasibility analysis to
✓
PPD
S2A,OW
CIP
determine how to m&xWdze the utilization
RC
OF
of PR-1 resources.
Design and develop a community
✓
e
FR
PPD
$2.5
CIP
harticultival center.
PM
million
PP
Pursue development of Gateway Park in
✓
PPD
$1.4
CNA
Poudre Canyon.
million
CTF
OF
Develop a regional recreation plea with the
✓
PPD
$45,000
CIP
comity and neighboring communities to
GF
efficiently and effectively provide recreation
services and avoid duplication.
Prepare management and maintenance plans
✓
✓
PPD
< $25,000
NPF
for each of the City's Parks and Recreation
RC
annually
CPF
facilities to determine the types and amount
PM
of additional facility development and
NR
programming that are appropriate at each.
Major upgrades that have been identified
during the Policy Plan process include the
following projects. These drat are mm*rd
wlth an • are contingent upon complimece
with the ManagenewPfau for dart pant or
facility:
- Upgrade City Park Pool with
✓
RC
PPD
S7.1
CIP
leisure/shallow now, water slide and
FC
milling
GF
water play areas, and renovate City Park
Center including parking facilities as
needed'
hM*nmdhgDqwftwnt
PPD
Park Planning nod Deveopmeat
SW 8tarmwater
Funding
CTF
Sources
Conservation Trout Find
CNA County Nawral Ann Tax
PM
Parks Mmkomom
TR Transportation
NPF
Neighborhood Parkland Fee
NAT City Natursl Arens Tax
RC
Recreation
PL Planing
CPF
Community Partlsed Fee
OF Owenl Fund
NR
Neural Resources
FC Facilities
CIP
Cootal Improvement Ptogran
PMF Park Maintenance Fee
PR
Forestry
OLNA Open Lwd/Nsurnl Areas
PP
Partnership
5-4
} - 't
f -' ) .ss <J s i tl"' F b , qrm ,Q$[< 5
111 �11 :II • 1 1, 1 1 -■�■
N'aS����.�s
i / ? 5 1> nrJ s•J�,v y3, r i t �E/.
« iji f
k gi
<7r'v i <�`
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AJ^4�, nx �;£ t
1 1 1
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t . ;
tl'
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.1 11.1 I II
MENEMEMM
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1•
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-1..1 i, Uit -:
PPD Part PLmulg sod Development
SW Starmwater
Fmodft
CTF
Sources
Conservation Trust Fasd
CNA Canty Natral Aces Tax
PM Parts M kossnoc
TR Transportation
NPF
Neighborhood Parkland Foe
NAT City Natural Ares Tax
RC Recreation
PL planning
CPF
Community Paridind Fee
OF General Fund
NR Natual Resources
FC Facilities
CIP
Capital Improvement Program
PMF Park Maintenance Fee
FP, Forestry
OLNA Open L•as Mat ral Areas
PP
Partarship
5-5
Life cycle replacement/renovation of ✓ ✓ ✓ PM 5400I" GF
existing park: and recreation assets annually CIP
Ballfield renovations at Edom, Lee ✓ PM $475,000 OF
Martinez and City parks. CIP
Renovations at City Paris Lake, including ✓ PM $125,000 OF
Wig. CIP
Showmobile replacement ✓ PM $100,000 CIP
PP
Acquire and develop neighborhood parka in
new areas of the city in accordance with
neighborhood park policy.
Develop management and maintenance
plans for all neighborhood parka
Pursue joint agreement with Poudre School
District to develop neighborhood amenities
at Boltz Junior High School.
Pursue expansion of Eastside Park. Current
land area falls short of the identified need
for the population in this aura.
Develop Hickory Paris and acquire and
develop when appropriate 2 park sites in the
northwest portion of the city to serve
existing and new residential development.
Develop Ridgeview, Westridge, Miramoat,
Can, Cottonwood and Harmony parka in
this order of priority.
hgiunmdng Department
✓ I✓ I✓ 1 PFD I 1 I NPF
✓ ✓ or PPD 410,000 NPF
SW annually
RC
NR
PM
✓ PPD $170,000 NPF
✓ PPD 1 $1.5 CIP
million GF
✓ ✓ PPD NR $2.4 CIP
SW million OF
✓ I✓ I ✓ I PPD NR SW million
million
PPD
Park Planning and Development
SW Stormwater
CTF
Conservation Trust Fund
CNA County Natural Areas Tax
PM
Parks Maintenance
TR Transportation
NPF
Neighborhood Parkland Fee
NAT City Nabuml Areas Tax
RC
Recreation
PL Phurroiog
CPF
Community Parkland Fee
OF General Fund
NR
Natural Resources
FC Facilities
CIP
Capital Improvement Program
PMF Park Mummioce Fee
FR
Forestry
OLNA Open Lasd/Natmal Areas
PP
Partnership
5-6
the default remains uncorrected, the party declaring default may elect to (a) terminate the
Agreement and seek damages; (b) treat the Agreement as continuing and require specific
performance; or (c) avail himself of any other remedy at law or equity. If the non -defaulting
party commences legal or equitable actions against the defaulting party, the defaulting party
shall be liable to the non -defaulting party for the non -defaulting party's reasonable attorney
fees and costs incurred because of the default.
15. Binding Effect. This writing, together with the exhibits hereto, constitutes the
entire agreement between the parties and shall be binding upon said parties, their officers,
employees, agents and assigns and shall inure to the benefit of the respective survivors, heirs,
personal representatives, successors and assigns of said parties.
16. Law/Severability. The laws of the State of Colorado shall govern the
construction, interpretation, execution and enforcement of this Agreement. In the event any
provision of this Agreement shall be held invalid or unenforceable by any court of competent
jurisdiction, such holding shall not invalidate or render unenforceable any other provision of this
Agreement.
17. Special Provisions. [Optional] Special provisions or conditions relating to the
services to be performed pursuant to this Agreement are set forth in Exhibit "_", consisting of
( ) page[s], attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
2/9/00
No Text
Develop trails, interpro ive paths and a dw
✓ ✓ ✓
PPD
$50,000 to CNA
site amenities as outlined is spe ific
NR
$100,000
NAT
menagemmt plans
Y
Implement a community parkland foe for
Adopted
PPD
development of new community parks that
6/%
are needed to save new residents of the
—
city.
Continue to implement the neighborhood
✓
PPD
pwklaod fee for development of new
—
neig **hood pwb that are needed to save
new residents of the city.
Adopt finding floc deficit on community
✓
PPD
pwkland needs.
Pursue needed upgrades to existing
✓
✓
RC
remotion and community facilities.
PM
PPD
Pu me finding for new community facilities
PPD
—
such as twimming pools, reav ation centers,
✓
RC
trails, etc. Explan the option of new
development impact fees for these facilities.
—
Must the reaatimal fee policy to address
✓
RC
user fee support for park f hmhtY
maintenence.
PM
_
Expkae alternate finding sources for
✓
PM
ongoing park maintenance, renovation and
—
rePlecement, and minor capital
improranoeots in parks.
Provide money to match grants for parka
✓
PPD
$550,000
CAP
and trails to help City compete better for
GF
t� �Y•
Wak with the county, tbrough the
✓
PPD
Pl.
Intergovernmental Agreement, to recover
RC
costa for Parks and Raration services.
Impinuni
PPD
tDspubant
Park Phmiet sad DrMopamt
SW 8tormwakr
FuWkSBasses
CIF
CauReadon Trull Food
CNA Caeely Na iM Aram Tax
PM
Pub Mssiflk ro
TR Tr=wMtIfiw
NPF
Nw*babood Pakknd Fee
NAT My Natival Aron Tax
RC
Reassfim
PL Plumiot
CPF
Community Puldrad Fee
or Gumat Fund
NR
Nataad Rwowou
PC Faalitin
CIP
CaPM1 hvwvmwd Pmtram
ne Puk Mudes w Fee
FR
Fwaky
OLNA OpeaLaod/NduntAmu
PP
Pattomebip
E_3
Appendices
APPENDIX A
GENERAL MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES
FOR CITY -OWNED OPEN SPACES
AND NATURAL AREAS
OctWnr 21,1994
Updated: September 19,1995
Prepared by:
The Open Space/Natural Areas Management Team
Randy Balok, Park Planning and Development (Team Leader)
Rodney Albers, Stormwater
Karen Mancl, Natural Resources
Kevin McBride, Storriwater
Jim Miller, Parks
Virgil Taylor, Parks
Ralph Zentz, Forestry
City of Fort Collins
Natural PAsowan Department
281 N. College Am
P.O. Box Sao
Fort Collins. CO 305224M
2214M
For L 1 • Yll i • or • i d Additional • • - of - pi L
• r •t
Karen Mahal
City of Fort Collins
Natural Resources Department _
281 N. College Ave.
P.O. Box 580 --
Fort Collins, CO 90522.0560
(Phone: 221.6310) —
The City of Fort Collins will make reasonable accommodations for access to City services, programs, and activitles, and will make special
communication arrangements for persons with disabilides. Please call —
2214310 for assistance.
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
MANAGEMENT CLASSIFICATION ....................................... 3
Definitions........................................................... 4
GENERAL MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES .................................. 5
CLASSIFICATION OF SPECIFIC SITES ..................................... 6
APPENDD(: SUMMARY OF COMMENTS RECENED ON DRAFT REPORT (40 pp.).
Available on request.
GENERAL MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES FOR
CITY -OWNED OPEN SPACES AND NATURAL AREAS
INTRODUCTION
The Natural Areas Policy Plan (NAPP), adopted by City Council in October 1992'
proposed a 5-year action plan to implement the plan's goals, objectives, and policies. One
of the strategies of the action plan was to "Implement management and maintenance
programs for natural anus that will conserve natural resource values, accommodate
multiple uses, be flexible to meet site needs, and minimize ongoing costs." Formation of
an interdepartmental team was proposed to develop management and maintenance plans
for City -owned natural areas. Staff from five City departments (Forestry, Natural
Resources, Parks, Park Planning and Development, and Stormwater) met together to form
the Open Space/Natural Areas (OSNA) Management Team to:
1. Provide a forum for interdepartmental communication regarding management
of OSNA's, including providing advice and comprehensive review of existing
and proposed plans and policies.
2. Develop policies for the management of wildlife, vegetation, and recreation
use of OSNA's.
3. Develop specific site management plans.
Using a Quality Improvement Model, the OSHA Management Team created the
following problem statement:
"Open spaces and natural areas are managed without unified, defined objectives,
and with limited customer input, causing conflict and confusion."
By addressing the problem statement above, the OSNA Management Team seeks
to meet various City goals stated through council resolutions and individual departmental
missions. A goal of the Natural Areas Policy Plan is "to create a system of publicly -owned
natural areas ... to meet community needs." Parks and Recreation is charged to "acquire
parks, trails and open space...", and the Stormwater Utility's mission is to provide drainage
facilities in a way that "pollutants may be reduced and the environment enhanced."
Forestry's task of managing trees in a variety of settings has obvious benefits to the City
and ramifications to the management of City -owned lands.
1
The OSNA Management Team is attempting to optimize the effectiveness of each
department's land management efforts to benefit the citizens of Fort Collins. The group
recognizes that many OSNA's meet multiple objectives. The team supports the use and
management of properties to meet multiple objectives and to avoid conflicting objectives
at any particular site. Each property is unique and has individual management needs.
However, these properties should fit into an understandable management'system, which
meets community desires.
In response to the above, the OSNA Management Team has sought to:
e Define classifications for City -owned OSNA's.
• Outline management guidelines for specific classifications.
• Place land currently owned and managed by the City into one
r
of the defined dawn.
Defining classifications is an attempt to identify the public's desires for land they -
own. The parks system in Fort Collins is widely recognized for its excellence. The public
indicates that a system of natural areas is also desired. The classification system outlined
in this document is proposed to meet this desire. Many of the management guidelines for
particular classifications are based upon our understanding of community goals.
It is important to prioritize -the uses for OSNA's so that appropriate management
methods are used. Without agreement on the OSHA management system that we are
building, conflict and confusion can result. Management guidelines were drafted based on
the proposed classification system. They are intended as guidelines, not requirements,
to allow site -by -site modifications, as necessary. Also, experience dictates that flexibility -
is needed by management agencies in responding to unusual circumstances, such as a
threat to human health, fire danger, or pest infestation. Additionally, other levels of _
government may have some jurisdiction over an area, for example an endangered spades
using a natural area. Flexibility is needed to respond to such issues. However, the
guidelines proposed are specific enough to define the management practices appropriate
for each classification. Guidelines will provide a firm basis with which to respond to the
inevitable request for variations in management practices where that request does not fit
into overall community values.
Lands currently in City ownership were assigned a classification based on the best -
judgement of staff on the current management of each site. Discussions on the future
management of each site can now take place within the context of the OSNA Management
System. If the proposed classification does not meet the community desires for a particular
site, the classification, and therefore the management, can be changed. Site -specific
management plans for those that fall within natural areas management classification can
then be developed accordingly. This will avoid undue conflict over each aspect of
individual site management, and focus discussion on the community values for a particular
site. -
2
To ensure that OSNA management meets the community's expectations, public
input and review was an important step in the process of developing the management
classification scheme and management guidelines. The OSNA Management Team held
a public open house and used several other means to solicit comments from the general
public during April -June, 1994. The Team also presented the draft report to appropriate
citizen boards for their comments; all boards approved the guidelines. The draft report and
public comments were presented to City Council for their comments during their July 26,
1994 session. Over 100 comments on the draft report were received. The list of
comments, as well as Team response to these comments, are included in the appendix to
this report. Appropriate suggested changes have been incorporated into the final report.
The OSNA Management Team will be an on -going, interdepartmental team, which
will meet periodically to discuss various management issues that arise. The team will also
consult"local professionals for the best approach to specific cases. The management
classification scheme and general guidelines presented in this report are the first steps
toward development of unified, consistent management approaches for City open spaces
and natural areas. The team plans to develop site specific management plans for open
spaces and natural areas that fall under the category "Natural Areas Management." First
priority will be sites classified as sensitive. To date, the Team has completed the "Cathy
Fromme Prairie Site Management Plan" and is currently working on the draft "Foothills
Natural Areas Management Plan." The Team will seek public input on each site
management plan.
MANAGEMENT CLASSIFICATION
The OSNA Management Team has defined several levels of management
approaches to City -owned open spaces and natural areas. The goal of natural areas
management is to maintain and enhance sensitive wildlife and plant communities, as well
as to protect sensitive geological and archaeological features. However, sensitive natural
area sites are not in ecological balance in the urban environment due to lack of predators,
confined area of expansion, etc. Best management practice may be to use intervention
to simulate natural processes (e.g., limited prairie dog control will likely be necessary to
minimize conflict with adjacent property owners and to manage grassland features).
The public also needs to be educated about the possible human safety concerns (e.g.,
possibility of encountering rattlesnakes within the Cathy Fromme Prairie, as opposed to
recommending eradicate all rattlesnakes to decrease the chance of a person ever being
bitten by a rattlesnake).
3
DEFINITIONS
Natural Area: Mena"menit Sites managed as natural areas include all the _
designated City -Open Spaces, the river and stream corridors, some Stormwater Utility
wetland facilities, and other sites receiving little maintenance and having relatively
important native wildlife or native plant community value. Sites consist of both native and
exotic grassestother plants, but, in most cases, only native species are used for seeding
and planting projects. Mowing is done several tunes a year along trails and roadways, and .-
along transition areas between natural areas and residential areas. Mowing is also done
periodically to control noxious weeds and as a management technique to enhance ground
cover (e.g., to help establish native grassland meadows). Herbicides are used on heavy
infestations of noxious weeds; biological control (e.g., pest bugs) is used to control
infestations of noxious weeds on several of the sites, including sites where rare plant _
exist. Trees and shrubs are only pruned if they pose hazards to people (e.g., near trails
and parking areas) or pose a threat to flooding of structures on either City or private
property. Exotic, pest trees and shrubs are removed in some areas.
The three subcategories under "Natural Areas Management" are: _
Sites that have sensitive plant or animal species, or geological
features, that need special consideration when developing a site management plan. —
These include sites that support rare plants, unique native plant communities,
concentrations of large raptors, rare nesting birds, concentrations of migratory bird _
species, and key areas for wintering deer, as well as fragile rock outcrops or other
geological features that can be impacted by high visitor use. This designation
carries with it the understanding that the primary function of management is the
maintenance of those sensitive species and features.
Mdw: Sites that provide good wildlife habitat, but do not have any particular
sensitive plant or animal species or geological features that need special
consideration when developing a site management plan. These sites are usually —
close to, and surrounded by, more developed areas of Fort Collins or have been
more impacted by recreational, agricultural, or other human land uses than sensitive _
natural areas. Sites are often composed of greater amounts of exotic plants than
the sensitive areas. These sites may be managed as multiple use areas, but a
priority will be placed on maintaining the natural character of the site. -
Restore : Sites currently undergoing restoration or sites that currently do _
not fit into above two categories, but are slated for restoration or enhancement in
the future. so that they will fall into the urban or sensitive category. Current
management category could be either greenway or parkland. The restorative
category serves as an early planning tool and way to inform adjacent landowners
of future intended site management (i.e., "natural area" —less maintenance than
"greenway" or "parkland'). This is a temporary classification until the site is
upgraded to another classification upon successful completion of restoration
activities.
4
THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
By:
James B. O'Neill II, CPPO, FNIGP
Director of Purchasing & Risk Management
DATE:
ATTEST:
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Assistant City Attorney
[Insert Professional's name] or
[Insert Partnership Name] or
[Insert individual's name]
Doing business as [insert name of business]
By:
Title:
CORPORATE PRESIDENT OR VICE PRESIDENT
Date:
ATTEST:
Corporate Secretary
(Corporate Seal)
2/9/00
Greenway Management Sites managed as greenways are usually Stormwater
drainageways; some areas adjacent to parks also fall into this category. Vegetation is
usually dryland grasses and drought tolerant, ornamental and native, trees and shrubs.
Sites are non -irrigated. Sites are usually, mowed 45 times per year and herbicides
applied to control noxious, as well as non -desirable weeds (e.g., dandelions) if complaints
from neighbors are received. Trees and shrubs are selectively pruned for flood, trail, and
structure hazards, as well as for species survival; generally, only corrective pruning is
done.
Parkland Manama maul Sites currently or ultimately managed as parklands include
mini, neighborhood, and community parks; undeveloped parklands (purchased for future
park development, but currently not developed); cemeteries, golf courses, and parkways.
The two subcategories under "Parkland Management are:
DeuekN d Park Sites: Sites managed as developed parks are considered
high maintenance and are usually irrigated turf (bluegrass or tall fescue) areas with
flowerbeds and ornamental and native trees and shrubs. Sites are mowed weekly.
Turf area is aerated and herbicides and fertilizers are used to maintain the turf,
which is subject to high use by people. Trees in parklands are on a complete
pruning cycle: deciduous trees are pruned every 4-9 years to maintain tree health
and form, and pruned, as needed, to remove hazards to people, structures, or water
flow. Evergreens are usually not pruned.
Undeve/orzed Park Sites: Sites that will be developed in the future and
receive high maintenance. However, until developed, site maintenance is usually
limited to litter removal, some sign posting, noxious weed control and on occasion
some crop production and livestock grazing may occur. Typically these areas do
not get used extensively by the public and do not require the care and maintenance
that developed parks do.
GENERAL MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES
The OSNA Management Team has compiled a list of general guidelines for various
types of management areas (Table 1). These management guidelines attempt to
incorporate reasonable and prudent human safety concerns and public enjoyment into the
ecological management of natural areas.
5
CLASSIFICATION OF SPECIFIC SITES
Designated City -owned natural areas, as defined by the Natural Areas Policy Plan --
(1992), currently fall into a variety of management categories (Table 2). There are
currently 71 City -owned natural areas sites. These vary in size from a 659-acre native
shortgrass prairie to a Wacre pond used to store golfcourse irrigation water, which still has
wildlife value. City-0wned natural areas are distributed throughout the Fort Collins Urban
Growth Area; however, most of the sites are located along stream corridors and the --
foothills (Figure 1). As new sites are acquired by the City, the OSNA Management Team
will add each site to one of the management categories.
r
It is not the goal of the Natural Areas Policy Plan, or the OSNA Management Team,
to have every City -owned natural area managed as a sensitive natural area. The goal, —
instead is to identify and work with existing site management needs of these areas. For
example, while the Grandview Cemetery needs to remain managed as a parkland to fulfill
the site's primary function, this management has not, and does not have to in the future,
preclude the site continuing to serve a valuable function of providing habitat for migrant
and wintering songbirds. —
2
V
TABLE 1. MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES FOR CITY -OWNED OPEN SPACES AND OTHER NATURAL AREAS
ISSUESNATURAL
AREAS MANAGEMENT
GREENWAY
MANAGEMENT
PARKLAND
MANAGEMENT
SENSITIVE
URBAN
RESTORATIVE
LEGAL'
Firearrrn
No d whvge Of WomPons Permitted. Incluft to use of any gam. Pat* crossbows, bows and arrows, sfnpNnob, SB puns, air pins, and plot Sun (City Coda
H7-101); except taw by boo anforoernerR offasm, permit wwporms use an dpeiMnabd etmootinp and archery rat;fee. and urea d wsaporn for special
armarnabrooea fcr a controlled 9v W to wildlife in with Police Colorado Division of WllM JCDOM.Planners of tarirnr
Recreational
Motorized
Vohkhesparklends).
Nan permitted (City Code ra-201, Ord. No. 82, IS9811@); except rruaYttermermce vshtiss, wmrgwwy o* nnK end sWctrio
whoolchairs (restricted 10 paved trail and
Psmmitbd ony if ells Is
deeiprnbd for such use.
CanaaionaJWndom
Nora permitted, excerpt so approved for special functions (City Cods 523.8.1); Park pow* In squired for special function (City
Code 023-2M . Ord. No. 82, IM 08 and i7). ,
Where note reowatloeai
needs; Peft Purnit
Curfew
No use permitted horn 11:00 p.m - M am.-, expW as approved for sivold Axxliwn Code i23-2DI Ord. No. SZ ISM 81 Adn*L Order No.1 I
AlooluoYc
ordrinkity kworfarrmented mar contmnsr Saw W not Code #17-141 .
Dislur'S the
Peace
DWhrbing tin peace (City Code 017-121), dreardwfy conduct (City Code 017124), nd rweaeornble noise (City Code 020-22) we not pemmkbd.
CAOM Bad"
Gloss boverapa bottles or containers are rat penrniited wmW where authorhmd (City Cods 023-2M, Ord. Na 82,1888Containers /8).
Littering
Lwwkv Is not Cods #17-41 .
is not Cade 07-122 .
Pollution of Waters
Washing dishes or vehicles or omPtyiM of wools nwteriab in any manner #W Pckftn the waters is not Cade /7.i-2D1 Ord. No. 8Z IM i1 .
Poeft Notiu.'ss
F or shw&vg cards or other advwbuV devices without pennission of the City is not Coda #17
VarKbkr V
T
Dsfaon8, dssbvAV, and snuovimp signs, notices, markers, etc.. is rat perrdl6scl (City Cods 017-43).
Easernents
Granted for and harwWoo reviewed by CRY staff to ftw rrrzs hVodto.mkNml resourcesof Sib and recroadora► structures.
Lessee
Granted under special considerations if they do root conW with site nwupernent goals and lards ws s18 socessi bla to tin pulft snrartIF' m include prating beeps
for vegetation rnonsawnent nd hdft Waves for corwanly activities (e.g.,
Erg"connnt
Currently, City Poke adbi City Code (indud'np Park Run and Regulations); l lnnne Society of Lwirrw County srdarces City Code sbbd to dope and cob at
large•
0
TABLE 1. MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES FOR CITY4"ED OPEN SPACES AND OTHER NATURAL AREAS
NATURAL AREAS MANAGEMENT
ISSUES
SENSITIVE
URBAN
RESTORATIVE
GREENWAY
MANAGEMENT
PARKLAND
MANAGEMENT
NONNATIVE PLANTS:
Put* Loos"bire
Remove and destroy individual plants armielly by culling simaground plant maWW and adder digging roots out of the ground or using herbicide to loll lower be
arWrootsol'plartallpottlonsaplantsereplacedineseledbeasand discardsa in tie tar ' .
Russian Olve,
No additional per;
No additional phm.tk ;
No add aW phntirgs;
No additional plerMi W
No addtlorrsl plendirgM
Salleadu. Sbarien
rennwa as Ttmdnp psmnits
remove as funding permits
roman durig reeboration
replace with diMarert species
replan with dlfasnt
Elm
and replace with native woody
and replace with native woody
activities.
as ltrndi g slows.
aped" if darrapsd
spseise If appropriate for ab
specks N approprisb for acts
1st
Nooacus Weeds
Control noun wends deeigrabd by the Colorado Weed Law and Lerimer County Weed District, using Integrated Pest Marneper ant Techniques (IPM). These
wads cu►antiy include Nsty spurge (Euphabia esule), Russian Wgyw ed (Cartaww repens), d fhm laupwesd (CerMaures d fitm), spolbd loapwMd
CentaWse nwoulow and Canada thletie Ciralum arver+ss .
Other Undesinbls
Coded wing IPM lachniques if targeted for particular enFancernen restoration, or
Broadestoorib tarps6ed for
Broadeaf oonb tarpst, In
Weeds
"Whilemmicep mi rim
maMnlranos redtwfion.
turf arose.
WOODY PLANT
MAINTENANCE:
No native trees or slxubs, or non -past non-native tress removed or pruned, suwpt those posing a
Sdatdiw pnminp and
Connplsfe pm i and
Troy and Shrubs
hazardous oondift (a.p., branders growing over powerlres, Won tress irnpedi g water flow in
channels).
renawL
roplem.m.t cycle
PLANT COLLECTION:
Downed wood
exoW by mdntenance staff to remove from hazardous all mtion, or Code /29-2D1, Ord to be proposed In laEs 1
Cwsc" Seeds,
Plmb, and/or
Nova permitted m cept with approval from the City Forester (woody spetass) or the OSNA Manaasrnent Teem (non -woody specks)
Now pen *bd.
Cuttings
for propagating native plants to restore or sevens natural areas or otter special purposes (woody species: City Code #27.31;
na"mody swim City Cods 023-2D1, Ord. to be propowd in Isb 1
PLANTING:
Specks Selection
Gore *, rdw species to improve wdldifs habitat, ,onion ratiw plait oarrrnunities, and restore
Native and non-native specks for aesthetic k provsnwft
disturbed areas, as needed. Phu kfi pit tar woody species requkW *orn City Fanader (City
Plealli pamit%r woody sperm required from City Forester
Code 027-31 r WWovW for Iiwdbg nM'Ndy mq*W tram not OSNA MwM n w t
(Clly Code err-31); City approval ns v y for plaMirrp a
Team Code i2'f-2D1, Ord. to be propowd in Inks 1
F I
rt
TABLE 1. MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES FOR CITY -OWNED OPEN SPACES AND OTHER NATURAL AREAS
NATURAL AREAS MANAGEMENT
ISSUER
SENSITIVE
URBAN
RESTORATIVE
GREENWAY
MANAGEMENT
_
PARKLAND.
MANAGEMENT
LIVESTOCK:
None, eoaapt for edurcWtiainal
Grazing
Noneexcept by sperm permit for vegetative managemerrt an selected sites
pr Tom (e.g., Lee Mw*w
Form).
WILDLIFE:
Generally, beaver are a desirable oompwwd of our rwtiaal am ecosystem and are only removed
Remove to protect onwmental t ess and/or charnel water flow.
Bsever
in eases where protective barriers, or liner control meMods, are not feasible or alfmative in
proteatinp desirable feel res. Removal examples include (1) potential property damage due to
floodirw. (2)dwupdon of irrigadom wash flow, Wrd (3) ehxasiw damps to deekable veystsiion
or a *vW
Prairie Dogs
MakdWin existing WV9
Remove unless a small,
Remove unless goal of
Remove to protect andte vaget0on.
colonies. Remove (1) within
controlimd 000ny Is
nsstonUon includes Csating
buffer area Wong budedrg
desig►alecl to Provide
or mairMining. a large colony.
property K City muff
educational and resewch
determines fto is necessary
values.
to prwent damage to such
Property. (2) If necessary for
grassland rsstoraticn, or (3) If
mandated by Umw County
Environmental Reach
Depwtmar t for plague
outixsak in the colony on the
gibe.
QY and Red Fox
Control individual animals on domestic animals or critical birds If mandsted by CDOW.
Skunks and Rac000ns
Control only if mandated by Larimer County HeaMh Depertrnent due to disease outbreak an -sits, or it ideco fled as being a dvkft ttrest to a mu ive resource (e.g..
birds).
Deer
Control N mardatsd by CDOW for or resource
Mountain Lion and
Cmb Wed (capturs and relocate) by CDOW if determined to be s tirest to the safety of humane or their pets.
Beer
Norway Rats
ContrWed as needed for human health prolectiom
Gesse
No active management (icing no Installation of goose nestkp stru:bses), under CDOW policy.
Control (by hszkg or in
oppl rs), in ampmration wMh
CDOW, E aware
maintenance problermm or
wildlife or human haMh
C-:
TABLE 1. MANAGEME ff OUM ELOM FOR Cr Y-0WNED OM SPACES AND OTHER NATURALARM
NATURAL AREAS MANAGEMENT
IssuEs
GAEBt y
MANAOEMENT
PARKLAND
MANAOEAEE
sENOWE
URBAN
RESTORATIVE
Olrar WandwiA
No.cdw rrwtapwrwrt
Donnoft duob and
►aldldornadb asaaas
NINON San an
Rpm asbrr. In oeapwslbn wEb
CDOW and Humor
I Soddy d1a&m
Raptors (Hawks.
Prom, arthsrroa, and
Promols, anl►sr►os, and
pal and anlNr►os hblw
Prsssrw nnft and ►mans t om wi m em possbk dMq
Eapba, Owls)
prabot hI IsI R aI 1 4 11
PrdwA , " 'if aI F I
ff approprbI for alb.
I
to rsnwtsl ar pns6 urd mdlrtp and brood mm ft
for ails.
for sls
I. Ewbrdm*tsmproftcbdbvFedwdbm
Natlw Sorabkdo
PmnmW wtonm and ~ hbb►t as an r sEs ahradwbdos.
pkm
Fish 8mckkno
Pont bko, and skmn In coopwadon wkh CDOW If for romelwoL nwomenwit or wdwnwrwt nasds d to aft
Twvd for spaaW p ajsab b srttNrNs rsorMdaral uN or fath popr b*m
Fbh Habbd
Erdwwwmnt
Paborwus &Nkn
Control If hoomptlbls wllh k►Yrrdsd u+s d aia bstuss (44. kthbilkip bu► m adJsoar►t In
Rwno►ra
Rsmotrs
mvd bpi
Norrpaborwrs
&wk"
No A
Mae*&"
May to oonbaEd by Lar im Cau►ly Er►►rironms ►bl Hadlh Dapwbv w* in ltr Gass d sarbus hurNn or donnsI arrI ' horM lssst dw b dbw arrbrw& (&&,
EiwW VYWft
Cw" f brpslsd for spoM projs A
Spsobs (a p.. bd
Natlrs Spsdss
fbkrboduolon
Tarpat for W=W projsob 1n , , .. 11 WM CDOW.
►R
Endwrpwad 8psdss,
Pron►ola, sMwros, and pr A I h M rwsd by !rasa spsdss.
Pron►ols. sNrwros, and
Not nwNpsd far ftw q=bL
Tkubmd Spseb%
probd htr6rstlNt has lM
and cdwm o
pdwm b wsport lNss
� � ► � t � t I I I I 1 1 1 I I I 1 I 1 ) �
ISSUES
Bird hotmmk Other
ArdkW Nest
Sholu m Bet
Maws
TABLE 1. MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES FOR CIiY4)WNED OPEN SPACES AND OTHER NATURAL AREAS
SENSITIVE
Limited irttttoll ation (due to
moom a cousins) if
roonsry b prornob,
Worm, or proleet use of
ake by artdrpred spades,
a-- -& rwd trpSciss, or
Untiled ktablsdom (due to
rnanry to promote,
eMwtos, or prolod un of
site by w+dw+pwsd Species.
@NmW- lgxmkm,r
URBAN
Lir *W insI lotion (due to
aaatitetic owwama) for
sducadmW purpown or
gsrmrSl . ,, I ertfmtoamertt
Limited I 'iort (due b
aesa rlF. eorIMM)fr
aducati wW purpoas or
gam M Itsbibt ect owarnork
RESTORATIVE
Limited 1 1- I I - (due to
aasif a wrtarrw).
1+9 on tergot
dsssmr, am t P.O.,'Semtdve'
or'Urbrt' nabaal areas
worogerner4.
United irtatelsdort (due to
antma cormerns).
doper I on tomet
chuNialim (La.,'Setuitlw'
or 1lrban' rta4ial areas
Ott.
GREENWAY
No active rrmtegerrmtt
PARKLAND
No MGM normomott, but
alowed by nstghbora mood
*wW IrMod pouts by
rtwiew
No active ntrngemanf, but allowed by mkhfi and spec
Irtlrest groups by review.
W&tlfs Fearing Norm (ciiw than fMw plrttirtgs) alovwd, stoospt wilt approval of CDOW for special projects No active nwwgw w* mono (Ww than pir*pe) provided.
(a•g•. opedom + ) (Cly code chapter 4 Omkwta protoke be& of dear. 9em, Supper bo& Is not reoorrartertdsd by the CDOW.
ducks ramoone.... ). SupplonwtW ear+pbi and agtirel %o ttp almad by
migitbora and specter trttere - pouts only ally omm.4dion
RECREATIONAL USE: In geowal, pamtitbd aetividea re in the category of peaM na sation (i.e., not l mmn-mirtisd.
Germal Uw not reytk tg specambed agt* wtt. can be dorm by one psrom-e•g•. waldrtg vWAV wldlfe)
swept am* lo*4" arias raenation is permitted an paved terms (e g•, bldrp)•
D99
Norte Permitted (City Code /73-2M, Ord. to be propaed in We 19W.
In germ* paadva recnetion
is mmouragad; some active
retxeadan le psrmitbd but te
site and bcMion vdWn eke
in psrmal, acow mmootion
bp *0 4 (I.e., leam-
Clio ed. acowdn reguiirtg
sgu-+•9•,
bnebal, hiebsa, golf),
which is aka and beatbn
PrtttNMd by MMW prink
for a group evSrtt, aNy (City
aAskb of', 19 1 9rWs or firs pb (may Cods W2(Q; bumkV of roman or ntbbish b p All- * (City Code 112-M. PSmtls with approval of
Al dogs must bean bnh (City Cade t14.93). Maybe restricted foil, ig ' ' b ak on sans I Al dogs must ba en laeeh (City Cade tf44I4 Faaa deposited
akes 10 F R' rt mbesl uo rwoss (City Code 029-2Q1, Ord b be proiwasd in We lgW6 Fmcm by doge must be MWied from ett (City Code 14-71).
J
N
TABLE 1. MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES FOR CITY -OWNED OPEN SPACES AND OTHER NATURAL AREAS
ISSUES
NATURAL AREAS MANAGEMENT
GREENWAY
MANAGEMENT
PARKLAND
MANAGEMENT
SENSITIVE
URBAN
RESTORATIVE
Mountain Bikkw
Restricted to tralls and arias #23-201. Ord. in late 1901.
Roller Skatirgl
Bladtg and
Sksimboardirm
Restricted to paved traits rd desiyrmted rear (Cky Code 023-2M. Ora to be propwed in late IM).
SMddirg and Snow
T
Nonepa., (City Cods 023.201. Ord. to be propoesd In late 199M.
Permitted only a daeigmted ak es erd locations vA*I alter.
Crosscantry
Skbv
Restricted to abrg paved trals and adw dseiprmW tab (City Cade 1123-201. Ord to be propm In life 1906
Its Skating
Norm permitted (City Code d123.2D1, Ord. to be propoad in his 1995).
Permitted only at 'I [a
ponds and laka (Cods 023-
FOte FWy
Nam permitted (City Cads 923-201 Ord. to be proposed in late 1
Pwn*tod.
Ord Jobe proposed in lets I QM.
Pwmlftcl.�
Model AirpW"
Norm pain , union use is for reroute warp wok approved by Um City (C ty Cods 023-201.
Ori to be proposed in late 1
PenrAted only st dea19 -1 skes snd locedc wkhn ekes.
Model Boats
Nona Cade 023.201 Ord. to be prepowd n late 1
Permitted ortly at rd lakes.
Nam pwmtmd (City Code #23-2D1 Ord to be pmmposed it late 1995).
Htffft
Nam Code 023-2D1 Ord. to be proposed In late 1
Trapping
Nam permitted eorcep' for special dreummis ees Ito trap rwimm wild b or carrdrrt research In cooperation with Polim CDOW. and Hunan Society of Lrim w
Code /4-12D .
FWhkv
Pam kbd uAses no Cky Cads i23-2t11 Ord to be proposed In lob i
Ice Flslm� I
N" permitted (City Code =-201, Ord, to be
•� � � � � r I 1 1 1 1 ! 1 1 1 1 1 ] I 1 1 �
W
TABLE 1. MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES FOR CITY -OWNED OPEN SPACES AND OTHER NATURAL. AREAS
NATURAL AREAS MANAGEMENT
ISSUES
SENSITIVE
URBAN
RESTORATIVE
GREENWAY
PARKLAND
MANAGEMENT
MANAGEMENT
Motor Boa ft
None permittd, Pt electric traiinp rnolors st wakeless speeds (City Cads 023-201. Ord. to be proposed in lilt 10M.
Nampa.. . LPL
elsctria tnaiip motors at
wakelsa speeds (CRY Cods
#28.2M. Ord b be
pmpaed in late 1905); no
private boats pem kbd on
City Pork Larks ill . t by
permit for a specbt event
Cods #23.5.1 .
Ottler
ParmRbd, unless posted no conoenp or non4 otorized bosls (City Cods #23-201, Ord. to be proposed in Is* 199M.
Permitted, winless posted no
Nora nroto izd
ed Bosh
caning or non•rnotzkmd
boats; no privets boats
Psmr>itted an City Park Lake
except by ponmit for a
special event (Cods #23.5-
1.
Paved Trait
Constructed to tecilitete recmiebormi and WWrnabm trarsporblion user pbcad to avoid knead to
Corot idled if nsoeseary to
As provided In park deeipn.
ssrWIN vI feaksoe of sits.
provide b a wportatkv inks to
otiwor payed trait.
Unpaved Trolls
Constructed and marked as bad to faciliteft recreational taros; plead bD avoid impect to sensitive
Nara provided.
As provided in Park dssom
foogres o: cite. Uee of urnsrked, unpaved trais may be restricted on sore aiba (City Cade
#23-201 Ord to be propowd in lab 1
Siprsps
Limited (due to aesthetic concerns) sgn pa rsosewy for reptrlabry, iMormadonal, and
Unfilled 1 iprmps necessary for
As needed In park dsoiprt.
Interpretive needs.
reptnlaiory and nlioret tw
wrests.
hwprodw
Limited (duo to aesthetic oonoerns) nbrpretive features far educational purposes.
Nora proAiod.
As provided inpark dssipn.
Fedwas
Fkwmaft
None pe n*W (Article 78, City Fro Cade).
On ly as permrkbd by the
City Parlor and Remotion
Deputinia, forspecial
everts.
Vegetable
Sans perm ftd next to
As provided Inpeek design.
None Code #23-201 Ord tD be in lab 1995 .
Air xuVHd Air
Low (<W0 fed) fiiphb snd I-v* Permitted only for srnsrperwy or Wd survey altuadorro, unless A ftirr bkeaR a l an dip airwoys
As parr IN by the CRY
Bsioons
of coo nea airport (City Cods #23.201, Ord. to be proposed in tab 19wt
Porks and Raaeatian
J
A
TABLE 1. MANAGEMENT GUN)ELNNES FOR CffY4YWM OPEN SPACES AND OTHER NATURAL AREAS
NATURAL AREAS MANAGEMENT
ISSUES
SBISfM
INtMN
RESTORATIVE
OREENWAY
MANAGEMENT
PARKLAND
MANAGEMENT
GENERAL
MAB(TFNANCE:
Only If needed at or near pareep lot or paved W&
Nan prodded
As provided In Park daaipa
PIVAdw ofRest
Roam
Grassland Fesi
WYNdes oarbaM 1 as sraadebd by Paudre FireAutiorty. Corirdled fees could be and for
Masep
Paiodc slap paved tak medwm bariapn. nme bullet aafae mod b mariolaed laudeaaI
Pafodc (3'6 f wtjsaf).
ReSr/M+egll b rawhdmh
aid for wood and
to
Psmddd s
PM Tedsigm ae and by to Cly. emollides an used silt for I 0 ig peat (a g..
Sams • nMwal areas aawraparawd, plus foarbioida ues for
gypsy ftww aulbrsak). Flartioldas are and on Paget naifus weeds (bbbplsl gol and on
ganral baoadeaf control
atrean oonidae and aaaas aarrleerep tore pbnft purple bo III Rueslon alm sslosr'r,
and Sbarlan sea Ridal9e del used b aantrd target populsions of Norway rals and prase
PrwAdw of
Ymw
Gw=* net provided; provided arty f Haddad st r over parkbg lot ar pared t al.
ProvMlad whara numb
media
Flalain sl
8tructrass
R Iml dandles II not in aailat vvUh n at" arw ptoiscllon gosb for db.
No
Asp In park dsdvL
NoMiabrbsl
Sb uckm
Ranwo uses carves pubic good, aeasalaoal, or alb rrwiWa x purposes
FAs F in park dniPt
Arrhnabgbsl
limlerlds
PrabrAsd andim urine monmy b Tarnow b probot nusI l la, orb prawide aff-aMs edufdad bonalt (Cry Code P23-101. C b bs paopond In YM 1S.
Fameog
SNw fenced If neosssar) b prober natural rsaoosoes or dke d raasslaal use. Barbed win
Now
As naosswe" In park
I ences replaced wllh narbsrbed wee r alhr lri ft ranaIal uriass a4ecent lend un b
dsaipn
Parks and Recreat
Policy Plan
TAnLE 2. MAx4aEMENT cLmwcA7= OF l;1TY-ONMED OPEN SPACES AND NATURAL AREAS
(Nob: Sib nrarrbw an not akraya sagrontld due b sddNioo cfrww dw or oarrbirollon of dw
dnO* wasSratwrNbrr
SITE NAME OF NATURAL AREAJ KEY NATURAL AREA FEATURES
HATURI L AREA MANAGE
1. Ca" Frarerle Prakb (9b9 sass)
Kay ropbr a wit t, ran plat indw n%p- P*b. pr" f9 fly.
oa/d supxd burrawkw owls.
2 Pkoridge Open Space (am acres)
Ropbr fwbNst, nn plank. nUw ahortaraes prakb, key wWw dew
h@W foctlrrs dckm prakb dog c*m. coM support Wxmwkrg owls.
ralfidNd hawks noel in pkmL
9 Muwd Open Sp wo (1E7 saw)
Raplor ens, nWm d, m %p es pnsk* key wkntw deer ha',*I- Ciq
4. CsmpnwPA@srrnir Ridps Open
own)
Raptor ana, natlw 1, Ig ass pr*K key wkrlw deer habN I k and A
dft CRY wokbw
S. Riwnbend Ponds Open Space
Farrow osprey nbsn aft nre port, ay bkd erg nd %oO ww
oomplec (219 icrw bvk des
lag► nrigralay bird hebitet, rwtraal l mkt l G
Mlrw Ind FWw Cow Spwn)
a Sprktgw Open Spwo (22 saes)
Roe ploK hay mipalay aonpbird hsbkK ran buurM hot>Il I rrabaal
too 411 g - I 11d Sbnnwa%r vlsdwW wgmwmWVcr adon often
dogrobd wa b imm wamr
7. Faalhis Trdl (S ndw
SeneNM b erosion, kVjWtW 9esbgic fiakaea, rgdn fooMlis pkak
krckKbe seunurb nwoged by the
omnm ndw, high use by mub dear and o0or foaifrSs wk9k
City and dght f ways owrrsd by
4o C
9. Resource Reoowry Farm (30 scree)
Baaldsr Creek; lower Bmakler Creek has an eoroeIerrt mbr of welbnd,
nohrs oottonwood forsK and Wwub fry nee b alb for red hft
low b end gnatfi000d awl; Wgh use by songbirds twarf oA Mw ysr;
We der and reekter I hud d dwA 10 wfib-tiled der. No pubb
aoonab aNs.
1 M Wabr Traabrurt Fwft
ONo % fooMrSs paeelud, and wstlerds meiniy asocclubd wdlh seepage
(35 scr")
ham dlkft Wb in I* ebgmy due In reoerrt d ww*wy d the Fedw*
Errdwpered ordrw dbcorind just norMl d properly; db b abo used by
.wb dew. coyotes, grid aMwr im m O Ns wkWo. No pubk across to
eNe.
11. Light and PowaPs Land North of
Kay area for rrpl o putiakdy wkrttarkrg bold soon and fern A*w w
Tranfwt Baking (36 sacra)
hawks paedwW and wo&W a w alb Woo used by gad noo9
and bd=MkL No PtAft aoass.
07. Prwh Dog Meadow (63 sons)
Key area fw nipbre, pwdaAm* wm *m* g bald eogw and lsrnrgkrorw
hawk; 9raeebrd and - Iud are; alb abo used by psssbi nestlng
aril
05 Food Creek Wsftds (220 scns)
Kay waWFvM and wabrbkd ..Opv cry d*m w habibt, nplw area,
burowkrg awb can years; sib abo used by paeelend birds, ooyob%
few and mbbNL
0 Coyob Ridge (442 cram)
Rua pbnk, nplor sea, ndiw eI , IV es prairie, key whW deer hobilet,
foomM fklgs.
15
TAKK L MANARiEMENT CLADSM1CATi0N OF Cf y4 Mi® OPEN SPACES AND NATURAL AREAS
(Nob c SMe nwbrs are not okays sevuenbi the to edrMon d nehw sbo or oarabirwdbn d @Nn
ohm w alkatwdlsn
wm NAME md OF NATURAL Axw MY NATURAL AMA FEATURED
NATUI M AREA MANAGEMEM. URBAN
12. Roos Open spree (M acres) Urban wI W arrWor, graselsrrd prkrwrly khtradhroed pookn dtr�se.
Swkw Creek end obw weland, dMoh.
I & Fledwr Open Epace (11 sores)
Urban wM0 aonklor. Pia prkrwry pastors greseek
dMoh.
14. Pnospsot Panda Open space
sores
Panels. ldit are@, riwr cw. k sr, h1oh wetsrfar l ues.
15 Archery Rana Open specs
Paudrs RNer omklor now 1.25; kip part d era nightly nh.kdekhed for
Meares)
use.
10. sdyw Open space (24 acres)
River oonidar. greeelerhd p hoc ly htrodaa r paobrs gn000s, dMoh vM
vulpty of no" wochr spades.
V. Legacy Park Nstaral low (13 saes)
Riwr m. Wm, wooded else with a hrerioly d rwlfw plsnt spsoMr, ones d
R@eetfand end dnahlerhd bit unnewed st park sMs, some anal
wesrhrllradng arose; high use by a variety d sahgbkds, woodpodea%
and awls: She kwkrdn natural race pardon of Legacy Park and 1904
sdMm d!l sass d nsbsd woo es 2 ohn in
I & Norl h WMft Pond Open space
Pak, l d*v are@, riwr corridor, coMat navalh, h%b useby nbnMay
(10 sass)
L . do kd wW 4*w weMrbkds, good mkt of oft hd I IN ' for res6
aa@Yrbkda
19. Rod Fat Moodowe (V sores)
DMches, gresdsnd prlmoy k*mkased pastrrs groves. wegrd, panel,
nouns warls (lhlelle,
sptrgy end weft peat tress (Russian diw) are
sbwW@K neidrht amd herd d marls der. hK pheaeeanI sorpbirtls,
panda and by 1 n a and oMwr urban wewbkds sMs kwkrdn UndrW
slomaeoler D@lsrwon Arai and crOW Miges Open space (lalod as 2
awards Mn in
21. WAnW slormwelar Wstlrhd
CotM rt.rah ouno nded by dawbpsd wve u@W der aeckbh% and s
sons
fowof wwado birds.
22 Nit oral Sl rmwMr ChwW
ft *=k AMw Obd% and moWy by wbrh wl9k Rl _ sites
n Is haw,
23. Tknbsrlm aWmwaier Wised
Cold mrdh with good mbi of orrW open water h K used by rad-
(10 sass)
vAr4pd srd yolow loo tlsd blselrbirds, mip day and urban ducks, rant,
&Wculss who ofdhwwslwd bird
24. Nelson Farm Ohm -is Warden
Pond and wadrhd Rings rsa, used by moody dypdooly urbrh w@W bkps
Pend ewes
26. Sunalae ft Saw wAft Ares
Oft mws u booth rhd rwngelMed grssslsrrd Y Mh mkt of khhoduosd
sans
dal raft
X FooMhls OuW Mae v, bar
Co wYnt welor few In cmeheL grasolrhd borderkhg a kit opreYah,
Charms! (18 sass
wbmwbft der weMrd and use.
27. NorMr Moss brlsr slomrapalor
Wet nhoadow, sonw use by iMdser, urban sa01 it
Will" 1s saes
X Clarendon HMa skrrewdw Ana
Friel Crook-&ims Tr w". some use by hrbsn wdldMs, bowl oonldor
10 acne
. for ftL n ooae,
20. Mary Park East sbrmoislor Pond
Panel wM arMd sue, dnokwgo dw o Mph useby urbrh - bu latA sad
+ores
btu low
1s
TABLE t MANAGEMENT CLASSMICATION OF Cf TMVINED OPEN SPAM AND NATURAL AREAS
(Nob: Sib numbing N not dways esquuAW due to adddon of new On or oonlbYndbnn of afn
since was fret vrrMYn
SITE NAME MW OF NATURAL. KEY NATURAL AREA FEATURES
NATURAL AREA MANAfiEMENT: URBAN
30. Poudre Riwr Me Trsl (S mho of Val
R corridor, high b lvw un by wlld g dspw drp on oardlon of
inobrdes emssrrnsrnis rrrannapsd by to
mcfamt hablK whloh N hla* va bblm dap the t A nadous weeds mrs
Cfq and dd*c ways named by tln
pmil mrrufb In soon move,
31. Sprkp Creek Bikm Twl (S man
Strwn arridor, re m cl ab b low time by widVe dspendrp on x No of
kmAides msssrrrsrrls rtranagm 'by fn
adjsowrt habllmt whbh N highly vwhhb dap vw tnl.
Clty and rV*ck nys owned by
to Obi
32 Les Mw*m Perk Nmtt, Arse
R(wr oonidor; n a m ootlonwood forest, anal weStnde, graselsnde; hlffr
(48 am)
use by m m Ot I As, w no* Ron a, owls, end waft bids; good arm for
rww buftflss and ofhmr a p I
34. O Coon a ImrNgs Park
Rkerbanklow un by wkftID � of romp and
nimes;
bank rnmd d� elms
36. Mubmny Water Reolsnn 'ion
Riwr Corridor; mahnm oatlassoode and wbv wm, wooded arse is umed by e
Fadky (S saes)
variety at eongbinde, woo 1psclrms, and owb; dwr and eldedrarsnd
b
Narsa
spring. Limited p sooen to WW aoom and daps
nw rkw and site an be viewed Paxie War BIN► TraL
ft Dndw Water Redemsdan Fadty
Pond; r wr oonklm dNcik mature ood rwroode and wflaws v#A sraomlerrt
Cm MM)
rnderntory of fielhe shrubs mid pelchn of weland ple ta; weedjamb
used by a vsdety of sagbkds, n000dpm Win end o vie; river and L ftx e
ors roved mostly by non urban wmhdwM and wale Im de due b plai ft
to VOL linihrdPAft soosn to die: access river oonidor by bike hal.
70. 6 WWy Park Nabxd Arm
Wooded ernelsown, part of rid rJwr nrrnndim amd pond; milmand by
01 ease)
a variety at songbirds, woodpeolnn, and a&* panda used by urban
dualm Runlm olw inn am and pedwsweeskyed iwasbm
71. Bend I l I u Arm
R old growl panda; dfWm; mdLm oou m vods and wftme
(Armpdw
urt Wsfty of rntlw slab dog river; wooded was Is tied
_
*fKWWWwmtMrrN an
timed nmldmrksnd miQabry waterfowlwaMrfosA and wahrWrds
17
TABLE !. MANAGEMENT CLAUNCATIM OF CfTYAYMW OPEN SPACES AND NATURAL MEAL
MaW.. Sb nadrws sn not dw wo se*wn d dwb adMon d r w ebs or oambbratiar dabs
dwo vwMititwrMem
WM NMI ME OF NATURAL MIN KEY NATURAL AREA FEATURES
NATURALAREAMANAOEMMr NISTONATNE
V Swira Park corm
Nak, sbsam dwmd d dwbsd by atwrndsdar ppAsA
31L BWW OW Spec. (2 sans)
Rwrr ooftb hww srrd mmoiWd sru*m on p *WtV oI
Pub inrodao.d pnkm panne, mwT dlrw wmft WsW dw bs, and
fort. en ow
30. Oudw Swsnsar Nsbas Arm
Add nsI n jinn bi ft paos ar part d sib.
11 eons
4M tldd Natural Arm
Rmmt sogW@Mm witlrlrr river corridor, pert d sb pnpomd for
(25 cony
Sbm*Aft I. - rsebrslla Ap to Mlon Project pnserrlb uud by
u'dolom I, and
41. Rode ft Mael Natural Arm
PM d sb proposed for 8bmwidu wetland rsabra/oNdebra m project,
law - I
wmAb&mWmw*bv"m*kft-
4& VUaodarrds ft Sfo WNA*r
Smd clod m ish end apm waW. upends bft rmbnd b rr0 -
Dab rAlm Pond eons
4C Canal knpm MW $tomeaabr .
Nebo and a wmiW tnn and drubs plrrbd; ynsms rmndo&
ClmwWFarmfm b Spdnp Cmek
moat umd try urbm s i gi
41 eon
51. The Cob& (5 moan)
Smd p "do8 colony boarded by v*W b du oft terdenpirp
n In OpnbyW t&PowvbnNiwgmsnandrad,,-ahnbstobWdo
rrabai betty
18
TALE 2. MANAOEMEfr CLAflICATKIN OF CRY4NMED OM SPACES AND NATURAL ARE48
(Nobs Oft rsanbas an not dwap esq i 61 dw b sddMon d rww sNw or arnbkrdon of slbs
sbros nwwmnmt plon wM *d wdlbrr
UM NAME OF NATURAL I ARM
KEY NATURAL AREA FEATURM
�tN1AY MANAOlMENT
45 V Mans Opsn Opme (2 son)
River om li w most dsM b pnssbrrd tw b prlmaly introdrosd p..rn
pnsess, npwsd 3-411mw per pear, bso brps bMmwds on oP^k amm ass
OW MWdwy swdbkdikra0000rr
4& Cbwvbw East 8fomwmbr
Smd a d astrt rest d sb b braodrrosd pnws morwd 3fi *rrss
Dsbndon Am 11 sort!
sort! nws by =rdklL
47. Fabhrooks 0 1 unn Ana
Smd ams of alit prat of sib b k6odaaosd Wmf rtrowsd 34 taws
1 son
amm um by md*ft
4S. Oaad Hobw IM SW"Ytmd r
VYbodsd ass sloop Ohm Cmk ChwwW 1Mo%h rssidsrMisl aaa; sort»
DsI MR Ana (2 sons)
osllmearoods and kmWm slws wM n nsdwsbry of irbo t M, prrasoss
34 *me pw jw,sans use by
4S. Vllaporr %l" Stormwdw DsI MR
About an am of brps aUmwnods, soar NOW shrubs, rest of basin is
Resin (1 ems)
mawd 346 time per yar.
19
TALE I MANAfiEMBff CLMWICATi0N OF CFFY4MM OPEN WACBI AND NATURAL AREA
(Note: Slls nuwftrs an not dwmp satFwrrw duo to oddlon d nww sNm w oonrbkwton d ebe
WEXAMOMMMURALM& KEY NATURAL ARM FRATURM
PARIaAMMANAGEMMIT
61 GmnW w ConeWy (45 sacs)
Lugs, old urban fwak hit trsa by raaldwfk m v dm y, wd wkMwktg
saatirds, due b warty ofn hn oarI and daddtwtas tow dfoh
nMaN hbbmbvwbmuubftMoW
0& RonlMwn ComeWy (5 sass)
Rows d n U% dn* Pa4b rrwbas tow prwAdn oowar wW food
for m Gt* A IMM gra •waft' qmk pmrabaaMrd and I p id rtlo d
suffaidm hditt.
5C Oly Park Nkw Got Couana
ma..
Dft nodt.s wry ho tau by milord. wW ~ tarb.n w•IwbwL
G& Cdhdmb Got Cauca (3 cons)
Pads rand dloh rec" soma uric by gsasa. mdrda. and oVw w ban
wtMwlbwl and
G& Sat*wklpa Gram Gaff Cara
Panel raoolm soma two by gum. maWds, and o0wr uban w I I -
(4 saw)
and wmkftdr Focal Cmk is u»d w a mownwrd ao , kb far &K
rwww and Ow arnd naarmwN
57. Cty Pwk (W mass)
Largo, ewbrs oaUornwoodo and wEowa idoM aknd w*porf• n#Vift7
and rsaklwtt sa 911 -1 waodpsoksm prn4#aa. awls. and n000 .
a mW io m** used by rrraisr I and attar urban ducky Wm is trood
tm* by • of wtMorfowl 0w wWw
05. Cnak" Pwk (3 maw)
Spiny Crm* oo .Im mostly mrtrpad as pw mwtd, but pert d eb is
d %1h "aura W wd nrr mg ad N urban rtalaard was; sonw
urn by urban bkds.
W ftft Park acne
Creak corridor ponct some t urban woWkwi and
f10. Edon Pwk (15 aon)
Sp tV Crank m.kb pond; high troa d pond by urban ducks (.wftd
and wipe - In prtbtlmr), aspaclsly kris fd wd cry Spirtg, soma two
byorsdbkol - ons
61. Gddwr Matdowm Psrk (5 saw)
t.ako wd M* good tm by mbr•fnry dNrag ducks In spring wry► good
tm by urban dudm mt dwr tlnwa, awns uw by sapbirds wd dlwr
wdubkds
02. Otwrlwd 4 mama
Pad and awes two 11 urban dub wd faoraw
53. Ratrd Moon Pwk (10 sari)
Sprkp Creak, dit k and pond; filly high two by urban dudes and gassy
sarw two by hron wd
54. Troukmm� Pwk (2 sons)
Ofloh (MoCWWW Crack) and two padr trouts taco by hoses, gotta,
and nrolwtls.
06. Wom Park 1
PwA aarw trsa bw hwwdk poem and nwlyds
SS Gowtm sr Park 41 •a•
aorrw taaa and
Figure 1. Approdmate locations of City -owned open spaces and natural areas listed in
Table 2. Shaded numbers indicate start/end points of trails (#'s 79 30. and 31).
21
1
,e fields)
1:32,046
1:2.289
1:3,500
1:2 333
1:14,863
1:8.605
1:30,000
1:3.529
1:7,892
1 A.304
1:1,714
1;10.430
1:6,000
1:2,136
1:4,000
1:5,450
1:3,159
1:2,785
0
1:1,714
1:1.986
1:1,668
II Game
1:6,286
1:4,005
1:3,000
1:21,800
1:7,500
1:3,946
1:4,000
1:6,950
Pall Flds. ♦
1:6,600
1:2,289
1:14,000
1:5.274
1:5,455
1:6,313
1:3,000
1:7,592
1:44,000
1:32,046
1:24,000
1:163,500
1:30,000
1:31,569
1:12,000
an
1:13,200
11,930
1:7,000
na
na
1:2,960
1:12,00
na
1:2,750
1:1.424
1:1,55 5
1:2,794
1:2,222
1:1,503
1:1,500
1:5, 560
1:132,000
1:21,364
1:21,000
1:30,000
1:12,000
1:41,700
1:33,000
1:26,400
-0
1:21,364
1:42,000
1:14,000
1:54,500
1:60,000
1:20,000
1:7,992
1:12,000
1:6,000
0
1:41,700
1:132,000
0
1:42,000
0
0
0
0
0
1:132,000
1:42,000
1:163,500
1:94,706
'ard Pools ♦
1:22,000
1:21,364
1:10,500
1:40,875
1:20,000
1:7,285
1:6,000
1:41,700
Lion Pool
0
1:64,092
1:42,000
1:65,400
1:60,000
1:47,353
1:12,000
1:83,400
ion Center
1:66,000
1:64,092
1:42,000
0
1:30,000
1:23,677
1:12,000
1:41,700
1:132,000
0
0
1:163,500
0
1:94.706
0
0
(privately opal)
(incl. 1 college)
(in pro8=)
CU rink not public
Park
1.5 ac/I000 pop
3.1 ac/1000 pop
2.4 ao/1000 pop
2.3 ac/1000 pop
1.5 ac/1000 pop
1.9 ac/1000 pop
4.2 ac/1000 pop
2.2 ac/1000 pop
od Park
2.3 ac/1000 pop
2.8 ac/1000 pop
2.4 ac/1000 pop
2.3 ac/1000 pop
2.3 ac/1000 pop
2.5 ac/1000 pop
1.3 ac/1000 pop
1.5 ac/1000 pop
borhood and
3.8 ac/1000 pop
5.9 ac/1000 pop
4.8 ac/1000 pop
4.6 ac/1000 pop
3.8 ac/1000 pop
4.3 ac/1000 pop
5.5 ac/1000 pop
3.7 ac/1000 pop
5 ac/1000 pop
6 W1000 pop
5 ac/1000 pop
5 ac/1000 pap
na
1,5 ad1000 pop
6 ac/1000 pop
7.5 ac/1000 pop"
3 ac/1000 now
8 ac/1000 pop
2 ac/1000 pot)
8 ac/1000 pop
2 ad1000 Pon
7 ac/1000 pop
2.3 ad1000 noo
8 ad1000 pop
rm
4 ac
1.5 ac/1000 rwo
3.0 ad1000 pop
2 ad1000 nw
8 ac/1000 pop
2.5 ac/1000 pop
9.5 ar/1000 pop
currently being
*inc. regional parks
reevaluated
that are similar to
City Park in Fort
Collins
1111111
1:6,667
1:3,000
na
1:60,000
na
1:2,500
1:30,000
0
1:30,000
0
0
0
1.9 ac/1000 pot
2.1 ac/1000 pol
4.0 ac/1000 pot
4 ac/1000 pop
2.5 ac/1000 oor
6.5 ac/1000 pal
APPENDIX C
October 31, 1995
To: Tom Keith, EDAW / HRV, inc.
Virgil Taylor, Parks Division, City of Fort Collins
From: Jcan Townccnd
Regarding: RNANCIAL AuITAIN.\TiYFS Foot FUNDING PARKS OPFRATI(1NS, MAIN'I-F.NANCN.,
1CAm-rA1.Ou-r1.AY ANU iNFRASTRi c-ruRF MAINTENANCE & RrPAIR
The City of Fort Collins' responsibilities with respect to operations, maintenance, and repair of parks arc
increasing more rapidly than its rate of growth, due to a continuing commitment of its citizens to fund park
projects. in addition, there is a sizeable backlog of existing infrastructure which needs replacement and
repair. For these reasons, the City anticipates that its current financial practices are inadequate to meet these
responsibilities and seeks new or expanded ways of financing.
This memorandum summarizes the City's current financial policies with respect to financing parks, open
space, trails, natural areas, and landscaped medians, describes techniques used in a sampling of other
communities, and proposes a series of eight additional financial techniques for further consideration and.
deliberation.
The analysis is presented in the folloi%ing sections
1.0 Introduction, Purposed & Summary of Findings ..................................... 2
2.0 Financing for Existing Parks, Trails, Open Space, Natural Areas and Landscaped Areas .... 3
3.0 Current Financial Policies & Practices ............................................ 4
4.0 Funding Issues............................................................... 7
5.0 Experience of Other Commurrities ......... ..................................... If
6.0 Funding Alternatives for Further Consideration .................................... 12
Appendix A: Case Examples - Parks Financial Practices .............. I ......... I ....... 17
Appendix B: Resident - Non-resident Foes - Sampling of Colorado Municipalities ........... 27
1.0 INTRODUCTION, PURPOSE & SUMMARY
Overview This memoraridum presents a series of viable finding alternatives for Fort Collins to consider for
financing acing its eau -going park operations, maintenance, and minor park capital requirements.
While existing financing arrangements are adequate to finance day-to-day operations and maintenance
requirements for the cuamt inventory of parks, open space, trails and landscaped medians, they do not generate
sufficient revemus to finance the growing deferred in&astrucpne needs, the continuing miner park capital
requuements, and firtuce operations and maintenance costs associated with new facilities. In addition, revenues
f:om Choices '95, the Natural Areas tart, the Conservation Trust Fund / GO Colorado, and the parkland fee
program enable Fort Collins to add to the inventory of projects to be maintained. The adoption of the
forthcoming Parks Master Plan Update will propose an additional set of park1ecommendations, which if funded,
will also add to the on -going costs of operations and maintenance. _
This analysis focuses on conceit financing needs and provides some perspective on future financing needs. Future
financing needs associated with the fordwoming Parks Master Plan Update are not quantified because the details are still in process. I.
Far purposes of this report, when the phrase "park upkeep" is used, it is intended to include costs associated with --
maint mnot, operations, life -cycle capital requirements, and minor capital outlay; it excludes costs associated
with land acquisition, park development and major improvements typically financed with debt or earmarked
source of revenue.
Storament of The Problem The QWs current financial practices and policies with respect to park upkeep are
well thought-out and quite reasonable. The "problems" are three:
# 1. Current Hording is Inadequate. There are substantial costs ($9.8 million) associated with currently needed
infrastrnrcarre replacement and restoration improvements associated with the current inventory of parks.
Funding for these improvements began in 1993 but current financial practices and finding levels are
inadequate to catch-up with current needs.
#2. Demand is High. The inventory of parks, landscaped medians, open space, natural areas, and trails is -.
increasing substantially due to the strong commitment of Fort Collins voters to tax themselves for these
armrovennnts plus the additional revenues forthcoming from State lottery sources. Existing phis new park
facilities will need to be maintained The rate of increase in•park upkeep costs associated with anticipated
increases in parks, landscaped medians, open space, natural areas and trails is about 8 percent annually
excluding inflation; this increase is out pacing the rate of population and employment growth by a _
substantial margin.
#3. New Customer Needs. Customer survey results indicate that the public wants more amenities in older parks
]rice shelters, picnic tables, benches, rrstrooms, drirdmrg fountains, etc. Currently, there is no capital finding
source to purchase and install these additionally requested items.
Summary of Fin&Vngs. Eight types of financial techniques are presented for the City's consideration and
deliberation. Each technique would be an addition to or a modification of the City's current financial prxctim.
The tecchmquw are summxumd below and presented in further detail at the conclusion of this memoraadum.
-2-
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation
Policy Plan
EDAW, Inc.
December,1996
SummARY OF FINmcm TfiC mQUEs FOR CONSIDERATION
1. Make four types of adjustments to current user fee policies and practices.
2. Increase the parkland impact fee to endow a maintenance fiord.
3. Increase the sales tax rate for a period of time sufficient to fiord the deferred maintenance park projects.
4. Apply some lodging tax revenues towards park maintenance to finance the facilities used by participants in
statewide and regional tournaments.(Altematively, increase the lodging tax rate.)
5. Create a tax -advantaged non-profit foundation dedicated to the upkeep of selected facilities.
6. Create a tax -advantaged endowment to generate sufficient revenue for the upkeep of selected facilities.
7. Enhance the use of docents and volunteers to reduce city costs.
8. Consider establishing a utility for perks upkeep.
While each financial concept has positive attributes, none are perfect. Most likely, a combination of
financial policy changes will serve the City best.
2.0 FINANCING FOR EXISTING PARKS, TRAILsq OPEN SPACE, NATURAL AREAS & LANDSCAPED
AREAS
This discussion includes the City's financing arrangements for open space, natural areas, trails, landscaped
medians, mini-, neighborhood and community parks. The Parks Division is responsible for the maintenance
of each.
The table that follows summarizes historic and budgeted Parks Division expenditures for park operations,
maintenance, and capital outlay. The 1995 budget calls for park expenditures to total about $3.1 million.
• Over the last four years for which there are audited figures (1990 through 1993) park maintenance
expenditures increased only 1.3 percent annually.
• The 1994 budget included a substantial increase, due primarily to an expenditure of $338,270 for capital
outlay; the 1995 budget also calls for a relatively substantial expenditure in capital outlay ($454,480).
PARKS DtvlsmN OPERATIONS, MAINTENANCE 8t CAPITAL OUTLAY ExPEND1TuREs dt BUDGETS
Budget Category
1990
Actual
1991
Actual
1"2
Actual
1993
Actual
1994 Rev.
Budget
1995 Req.
Budget
Personnel Services
S1,310,475
$1,398,971
$1,496,440
S1,546,010
$1,631,156
$1,675,766
Contactual
$521,679
$561,103
$562,792
S548,921
$690,747
S712,780
Commodities
$173,920
S183,887
$230,992
$201,756
S244,666
S235,201
Capital Outlay
$164,959
$20,993
$1,117
$52,741
S338,270
S454,480
Transfers/Other
s0
so
s0
s0
S25,000
S25,000
Total: S
Total: %
S2,171,032
S2,164,844
(0.3%)
S2,291,341
5.80/0
S2,349,428
(1.7%)
$2,929,839.
24.7%
S3,126,727
6.7%
Source: City of Fort Collins Budgets
-'-
3.0 Cntx m FwArrclAL POLims Alva PRAencss
Ovuviewe From a budget and management perspective, the Cultural, Library and Recreational Services group
consolidates tines departments wbich provide kistne and recreational opportunities; the departments are Cultural
Services & Facilities, Library, and Parks & Recreation. The Parks Division within the Parks and Recreation
DVatnft meiatams and Wastes per, trials, open space, park and recreation facilities, arterial street medians,
city building landscaping.
The table that follows describes the primary ways that components of the park operations, maintenance, capital
outlay, and restoration, major capital urgmvements and land acgtAsitions are financed _
in the City.
• The primary swrcrs for funding major capital improvements are currently the Natural Areas dedicated sales and use tax, the Choices'95 dedicated sales and use tax, developer impact fees, the Conservation Trust Fund
(Colorado Lottery) and the Parkland Fund
• The primary sources for funding park upkeep are revenues from the General Fund (for parks, medians, and
existing open space), the Conservation Trust Fund (for trails) and the Natural Areas sales tax (for future
natural areas).
The primary sources for funding infrastrtrcture requiring replacement and repair has been the General Ftmd,
through an allocation to the Parks Division (since 1993) or, historically, through a fund transfer to the Capital
Projects Fund.
CtrUMgT, PROAARY SoaRcEs of RINANcDrO FoR PARKS
TYPE of
MA7oR CAPITAL
•UPKEEP" = OPERATIONS,
INFRASTRUCTURE
IMPROVEIENf
IWROVEMMM
MADnmgANa, & MINOR CAPITAL
RF3LAcEms JT &
OUTLAY
RESTORATION
Trails
Conservation Trust Fund
Conservation Tout Fund
General Fund transfer to
Revenues
Revenues and General Fund
the General Capital
allocation to the Parks Division
Projects Fund
Open Space
Conservation Trust Fund
General Fund allocation to the
General Fund allocation to
Parks Division
Park Division
Natural Areas
Natural Areas 0.25% sales &
Tax revenues during last year will
General Fund allocation to
use tax for five years
be used to fund an endowment for
Parks Division
maintenance
Neighborhood
Parkland Fee Fund
General Fund allocation to the
General Fund allocation to
Parks
Parks Division
Parks Division or General
Fund transfer to the
General Capital Projects
Fund
Community
Bond issues, repaid with
General Fund allocation to the
General Fund allocation to
Parks
pledged sales tax revenue
Parks Division
Parks Division or General
Fund transfer to the
General Capital Projects
Fund
-4-
CURRENT, PRIMARY SovRc Es OF FwAwamt; FOR PARas
TYPE OF
MAroR CAPITAL
"UPKEEP" - OPERATIONS,
INFRASTRUCTURE
IMPROVEMENT'
IMPROVEMENTS
MADnxNANCE, & MINOR CAPrrAL
REPLACDNr &
OUTLAY
RESTORATION
Mini Parks
Parkland Fee Find
General Fund allocation to the
General Fund allocation to
Parks Division
the Perks Division or
General Fund transfer to
the General Capita
Projects Fund
Golf Courses
Golf Enterprise Fund
Golf Enterprise Fund
Golf Enterprise Fund
Municipal
Cemetery Fund
General Fund allocation to the
Cemetery Fund and
Cemeteries
Cemetery Fund; Perpetual Care
General Fund allocation to
Fund
the Parks Division
Landscaped
Street Ove sizing Fees &
General Fund allocation to the
General Fund allocation to
Medians
Private developers
Parks Division
the Parks Division or
General Fund transfer to
the General Capita
Projects Fund
City Funds Involved in Operations A Maintenance Upkeep. There are seven funds that have some
responsibility in operations and maintenance upkeep. They are the General Fund, the Recreation Fund, the
Capital Projects Fund, the Conservation Trust Fund, the Parkland Fund, the Golf Fund, and the Cemetery Fund.
The key responsibilities of each fund regarding park upkeep are outlined below.
CrrY FUNDS THAT HAVE RESPONScBriznEs FOR MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS UPKEEP
FUND
GENERAL PURPOSE
PARK UPKEEP REsPONsisaxrms
General Fund
This is the operating fund of the City. It provides
The CLR service area inchtdes the Parks
revenues for services such as administration, police,
and Recreation Department The Parks
transportation, parks, recreation, library. Funds are
Division of this department maintains
funneled though 6 service areas including Cultural,
parks, trails, open space, landscaped
Library and Recreation (CLR) Services
medians and landscape around municipal
buildings.
Cemetery Fund
This special revenue fiord provides coordination of
The Parks Division manages the on -going
all operations for the tow City -owned cemeteries.
maintenance of the cemeteries.
Primary revenues are from the sale of lots, cemetery
foes and General Fund transfer. It is within the CLR
service area.
Recreation
This is a special revenue fund which accounts for
Revenues are generated by activity fees.
Fund
revenues (user fees and General Fund transfers) and
drop -in fees, concession operations, and
expenditures associated with recreation programs in
facility rentals. By policy, revenue Roan
the City.
these fees is to cover all direct recreation
program and facility costs. This revenue,
plus support from the General Fund to
cover community good costs, balances the
fiend each year.
-5-
CrrY FUNDS THAT HAvE REsPONsiBLl.r= FOR MAINTENANCE & OPERAnoNs UPKEEP
FUND
GENERAL. PURPOSE
PARK UPKEEP REsPoNsu3uzm
Golf Fund
This enterprise fund functions at only a slight net
This enterprise fund finances all costs
loss, when expenses include debt service and
associated with golf course upkeep.
depreciation; operations and maintenance costs are
fully financed with golf fund revenues; forecasts show
a break-even position.
Capital
This fund receives revenues from the three dedicated
The Parks Division maintains some
Projects Fund
0.25 cent sales and use tax, General Fund transfers,
capital projects purchased through the
bond proceeds, and other city funds. Projects funded
Choices'95 CIP, open space purchased
include those for the Choices'95 Capital
through the Natural Areas Plan and its
Improvement Plan, the Capital Street Maintenance
on -going capital improvements. The
Program, the Natural Areas Plan, and other on -going
Natural Areas Plan is designed to
programs addressing minor street and pedestrian
generate revenues sufficient to fund a
improvements.
Stewardship Fund to maintain natural
areas purchased herein.
Conservation
This fund receives revenue from the Colorado State
The Parks Division uses General Fund
Trust Fund
Lottery and applies revenues towards the acquisition
revenues to maintain open space and trail
and development of opens space and trails. Since the
acquired and developed with State
Passage of the Natural Areas sales tax, this fund has
Conservation Tnist Fund revenues. State
been used more specifically for trails.
revenues may not be used for
maintenance.
Parkland Fund
This fiord receives revenues from the Parkland Fee
The Parks Division is responsible for the
and applies revenues towards acquisition and
on -going upkeep or parks developed with
development of neighborhood parks and related
Parkland Fees.
capital improvements.
Recreation User Fee Policy. All recreation user fees are collected and funneled into the Recreation Fund. For
perspective, total user fee (activity fees, recreation drop -ins and rentals) revenues for 1994 were $2,172,505.
The current recreation user fee policy was adopted in September,1990 after careful study and policy analysis by
City staff and Council. The intent of the recreation fee policy is to cover those program costs directly experienced
by program. users; other indirect costs for maintenance and capital are to be covered by the General Fund through
tax revenues. User fee schedules are based on the costs of individual programs. The policy states that these fees
may be changed only if program costs increase or if users want an increase in service.
The net effect of this carefully -crafted policy is that user fees cover 100 percent of the program portion of the
Recreation Fund budget, which is equivalent to 57 percent of the Recreation Fund budget or 43 percent of the
City's estimated direct and indirect costs to deliver recreation services. None of the user fee revenues are funneled
into park upkeep.
The Recreation Fund is divided into two components: a Program Portion, which is supported by user fees and
charges, and; a Community Good Portion, which is supported by the General Fund.
• The Program Portion comprises costs of providing and activity or maintaining a facility that are part of the
M
users' direct experience. Types of eligible costs include activity costs, such as hourly, seasonal and
contractual employees staff, materials, equipment, and transportation and facility costs, such as minor
repairs, custodial equipment, utilities, building supplies. Services associated with these costs include
leagues, class instruction, drop -in activities at pools, ice arena, gymnasium and farm, trips and tours,
special events, concession operations and facility and equipment rental.
• The Community Good Portion of the Recreation Fund comprises costs associated with the centralized
management of the Recreation Division and the deficit portion of program costs that cannot be recovered
through fees. Services associated with community good costs include all full-time salaries and office
requirements associated with staff in management, planning, public relations, recruitment and training,
citizen response, and general financial support of those unable to afford full fees for programs.
Two reserve accounts have been established within the Recreation Fund to supplement user fee revenues.
They are a Scholarship Reserve and an Operation Reserve.
• The Scholarship Reserve is a source of funds available to support people who cannot pay full price for
services. It is structured to total three percent of the Program Portion of the Recreation Fund. It has been
phased in over a four-year time period, 1990 to 1994. Replenishing the reserve to its planned ceiling is
an on -going annual cost to the General Fund.
• The Operating Reserve is available only if current revenues cannot support current expenses. The
objective is to maintain this account at seven percent of the Program Portion of the Fund, excluding one-
time capital purchases and lease -purchase payments. Based on the 1994 budget, this would be about
$298,000. The reserve was initially established by the General Fund and maintained by retained excess
fund balances in the Program Portion of the Fund.
4.0 FUNDING ISSUES
Overview. The City's current financial practices and policies with respect to park upkeep are logical and
equitable. The "problems" are three:
#1. Current Funding is Inadequate. There are substantial costs ($9.8 million) associated with currently
needed infrastructure replacement and restoration improvements associated with the current inventory
of parks. Funding for these improvements began in 1993 but current financial practices and funding
levels are inadequate to catch-up with current needs.
#2. Demand is High. The inventory of parks, landscaped medians, open space, natural areas and trails is
increasing substantially due to the strong commitment of Fort Collins voters to tax themselves for these
improvements plus the additional revenues forthcoming from State lottery sources. Existing plus new
park facilities will need to be maintained. The rate of increase in park upkeep costs associated with
anticipated increases parks, landscaped medians, open space, natural areas and trails is about 8 percent
annually excluding inflation; this increase is out -pacing the rate of population and employment growth
by a substantial margin.
#3. New Customer Needs. Customer survey results indicate that the public wants more amenities in older
parks like shelters, picnic tables, benches, restrooms, drinking fountains, etc. Currently, there is no
capital funding source to purchase and install these additionally requested items.
Infrastructure Replaeenswr A Ratoradon Improvensen tr Annually, the Packs Division staff conduct a
comprehensive analysis of infrastructure improvement needs to replace or restore an existing facility,
structure, feature or equipment to its original currently required condition, purpose and efficiency.
In 1994 constant dollars, these needs totaled $9.8 million; $6.1 million in replacements and $3.7 million in
renovations. A description of needs by type of improvement and by type of park is summarized below.
PARKS b R mtxTuRE REPtAcEMENT a RENovAmoN NEEm
1WROVEMOM BY TYPE
IMPROVEMEM BY PARK TYPE
Asphalt
$2,109,820
Cemetery
S%2,847
Buildings
$736,31 t
Community Parks
S3,058,496
Courts
$595,673
A.D.A.
S219,470
AMA
$219,470
Facilities
S343,067
Fields
$692,812
Mini Parks
S293,377
Irrigation
$762,653
Neighborhood Parks
S2,359,793
Playgrounds
$1,348,863
Open Space
S118,464
Structures
S431,613
Trails
$1,168,529
Trails
$1,164,154
Trees
SI,2,67-5
Trees
$1,267,500
Total (1994 Dollars)
$9,971,603
Water
$458,229
Other
S4.500
Total (1994 Dollars)
S9,791,603
Source: Fort Collins
Parks Division - 1995 Report (Costs in 1994 Dollars)
City staff estimate that these improvements are needed over the next 30 years (1995 to 2024) for the current
inventory of parks. The list does not take into account needs associated with new parks, trails, open space
or natural areas which will be added to the City's inventory during the next 30 years.
Staff have estimated infrastructure needs over the next five years (1996 through 2000) will average $412,776
annually, excluding consideration of inflation. For future years, the City has made a commitment to fund
infrastructure needs from the General Fund at a level of about $200,000 annually. This will cover less than
one-half of the need.
Increasing Immmtory of Parks, lhdht Open Space, Natural Areas and Medians: The City is increasing
its inventory of parks, trails, open space, natural areas, and landscaped medians in six different ways.
The parkland fee for new residential development is used to fund neighborhood park development.
Residential building permits have averaged 1,0081.
2. The Choices '95 schedule of capital improvements includes six significant park and recreation
improvements. This capital program is funded with a 0.25 percent sales and use tax which extends from
1990 through 1997.
3. The Natural Areas capital improvements program, funded with a 0.25 percent sales and use tax which
extends from 1993 through 1997, is exclusively for natural areas. This program is unique in that it will
fund a maintenance fiord, tentatively called the Stewardship Fund.
Residential building permit activity: 1990 — 728; 1991 - 785; 1992 - 894; 1993 — 1,173; 1994 - 1,462. 1
4. The Conservation Trust Fund may be used to finance open space and traits acquisition, development and
maintenance. Given the Natural Areas program's emphasis on purchasing natural areas, the CTF fiord will
be used in the next few years to finance new trials. With the increase in available funds at the State level from
Great Outdoors Colorado, GO Colorado or LOCO, revenues flowing to this fimd will increase.
5. As development continues, new arterials with landscaped medians will be built. The street oveasizing fee
fiends construction of landscaped medians but not maintenance.
6. The General Capital Improvements Fund has included park projects in the past and may include park projects
again, particularly when two current earmarked sales and use tax revenue sources expire in 1997.
The two tables that follow provide an order -of -magnitude perspective regarding the additional inventory of parks,
trails, open space, natural areas and landscaped medians which may be developed. The fast table describes the
eight primaryieve au sources which contribute to the City's inventory of parks; the second table provides some
general measure of the anticipated magnitude of increase in park upkeep costs, without inflation.
RSVEmm SouRcEs CONaR wnm To ADmTmOm To:
Paoow+tvt
Htsromc Acrtvmr
GENML#,L en FORECAST: 1995 -1999
Parkland Fee
The City uses its 5813 fee per new
If the City averages the volume of residential
dwelling unit to finance development of
development it experienced in the last 5 years
neighborhood and mini -perks;
(1,008 units annually) revenues will total
maintenance is funded in the Parks
5819,500 annually with no change in the fee
Division with General Fund revenues. In
schedule. At an average acquisition and
1993, parkland fee revenues totaled
development costs of 585,000 per acre, about 9
5811,657; in 1994 revenues are estimated
acres of neighborhood parks could be acquired
at Sl.I million. The City currently
and developed annually. This amount of park
maintains about 230 acres of neighborhood
development is more than what would be r egwed
and mini -parks.
to maintain a 2-acre-per-1,000 population
standard for neighborhood parks.
Choices'95
In March, 1989, voters approved a 0.25
All park and recreation improvements will have
percent sales and use tax for an &-year
been purchased by the and of 1995.
period (1990 through 1997). Revenues
are for 519.1 million in improvements
including 57.5 million in park and
recreation improvements. All six park and
recreation improvements are complete or
will be complete in 1995.
Natural Areas
In November,1992, voters approval a
This is structured to fund land acquisition and
0.25% sales and use tax rate increase for
maintenance of natural areas purchased with
five years (1993-1997). Plans are to
Natural Areas sales and use tax revenues. 1995
acquire between 2,000 and 3,000 acres of
Natural Areas sales and use tax revenues are
natural areas and fund an endowment
estimated to total S3,145,590. The Parks
(Stewardship Fund) where interest will be
Division will menage the maintenance of new
sufficient to maintain the natural areas. To
natural areas.
date, the City has acquired 1,920 acres.
-9-
REVENUE SouRcEs CONTRIBunNO To ADDmoNs To:
PROGRAIA
HtsroRtc AcrtvrrY
GENERALt= FORECAsr: 1995 -1999
Conservation
This fund receives and spends revenues
The City forecasts lottery revenues at $550,000
Trust Fund
from the Colorado State Lottery for capital
annually. This revenue stream would allow
projects related to acquisition and
development of approximately 1 to 2 miles of
development of open space and trails.
paved trails, depending on land acquisition costs
Currently, the City maintains about 15
and competing needs for other trail improvement
miles of paved trails and 5 miles of
projects.
unpaved trails.
Street Oversizing
The City currently maintains about 39
The Parks Division anticipates that about 1 acres
dt Landscaped
acres of landscaped medians.
of landscaped medians is developed annually.
Medians
Citywide Capital
This Rind is financed with General Fund
This fund will not likely add substantially to the
Improvements
transfers. Expenditures average about $1
inventory of parks, open space or trails during the
Fund
million. While there have been numerous
next few years, due to use of other earmarked
park projects funded through this program,
sources of revenue for these purposes.
recently projects have been for streets,
pedestrian access and building repair.
Historically, the City has used this revenue
source to develop community parks.
Citizen Initiative
There is a proposed citizen initiative to
The bond issue language suggests that funds will
increase the sales and use tax by 0.25%
be available to manage and maintain these
between July 1995 and June 2020 for
facilities through creation of a separate trust fund.
several specific sets of improvements.
Forthcoming
The City adopted a Parks Master Plan in
A Parks Master Plan Update is forthcoming in
Parks Master
1989 and has been following its
1996. Details are not available yet.
Plan Update
recommendations.
ANTICIPATED MAGNITUDE OF INCREASE IN PARRS UPKEEP COSTS
FAcnm TYPE
CURRENT UNITS
AVERAGE ANNUAL INCREASE IN:
UNITS
UPKEEP Cows PER UNIT
(1994DouARs)
TOTAL UPKEEP COST
(1994DOLLARS)
Neighborhood Parks
210 acres
10 acres
$3,355 per acre
$33,550
Community Parks
308 acres
40 acres
$3,162 per acre
$126,480
Mini -Parks
20 acres
4 acres
$6,315 per acre
$25,260
Trails Built with CTF
15 miles paved
5 miles unpaved
1 mile/
paved
$8,201 paved per mile
$352 unpaved per mile
$8,201
Natural Areas
1,920 acres
300 acres
$57 per acre
$17,1000
Landscaped Medians
39 acres
1 acre
$3,864 per acre
$3,864
TOTAL
$214,455
° This cost will be oo-funded through an endowment established with Natural Areas sales & use tax revenues and
the General Fund. Source: Parks Division, February, 1995.
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5.0 EXPERIENCES IN OTHER COMMUNITIES
To supplement this analysis, an abbreviated survey of how seven municipalities finance their park
operations, maintenance and capital expenditures was compiled. The cities surveyed include Aurora,
Boulder, Colorado Springs, Denver, Westminster, Portland and Seattle. The results of each survey are
presented in Appendix A; the discussion that follows highlights some key findings. While no other program
is precisely comparable with the City of Fort Collins, it is useful to understand other city practices so that
we can frame Fort Collins' financial practices in perspective.
User Fees for Parks. Four of the seven cities surveyed (Boulder, Colorado Springs, Portland & Seattle)
incorporate costs associated with park maintenance and capital outlay in their use fees; Aurora, Denver,
Westminster do not include maintenance and capital outlay costs in deriving user fees. For example, for
athletic field usage, Colorado Springs imposes a maintenance fee on an hourly basis plus a charge for use
of the athletic fields. In addition, Colorado Springs imposes a "capital account surcharge" of $7.50 per
player plus $25 per team; these funds are used to acquire, develop and maintain athletic fields.
Two cities surveyed (Boulder and Portland) are actively engaged in a multi -year program to re -structure user
fees so that users pay for their full share of usage, including maintenance, renovation and indirect
administrative charges.
Jn4ind Services One city, Portland, has been successful in encouraging private athletic associations, such
as soccer and softball, to invest in and use their own field equipment (goals, line chalkers, etc. ) instead of
using city -owned equipment and manpower. This arrangement keeps their fees low and reduces city labor
and capital outlay.
Differential User Fee Schedules, Seven Colorado Front Range cities were surveyed to determine whether
they charge a higher user fees rates to non-residents; they were Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Englewood,
Longmont, Thornton and Westminster. Six of the seven cities impose a higher user fee rate for non-
residents. Appendix B highlights a sampling of user fees from each community.
Regional Tournaments & Festivals. Portland, Seattle, and Boulder are particularly aggressive in making
certain that regional athletic events and festivals pay for their fully -burdened cost of using city facilities.
Portland uses a point system to measure how much of the annual replacement and repair should be assessed
to sponsors of festivals and concerts. Boulder charges 150 percent of its fully -burden costs to regional
events.
Impact Fees. Most of the Colorado cities that we surveyed impose impact fees for park development; some
use fees for land acquisition as well; Denver is considering the imposition of a park development fee in its
new development areas. Neither Portland nor Seattle impose impact fees. No city has attempted to use the
impact fee tool to endow a maintenance fund or a replacement/repair fund for parks.
Endowments Three cities surveyed use endowments to a significant extent. Boulder has a general Park and
Recreation Foundation which is a conduit to receive and expend tax -advantaged gifts for park and recreation
needs. Colorado Springs and Seattle has several park -specific tax -advantaged giving programs or
endowments.
Earmarked Tax Revenues for Park or Open Space Improvements. Outside of impact fees and voter -
approved bond issues, only Boulder, Colorado Springs and Westminster have a source of tax revenue
dedicated for parks improvements. Boulder and Westminster have a dedicated sales tax rate, similar to Fort
Collins. Colorado Springs collects a per -player and per -team fee for active sports field upkeep. While
Denver dedicates lease revenues from its long-term agreement with the Winter Park Recreational Association
to parks the funds are for maintenance.
m
660 FUNDING ALTERNATIM
Condnsiatkn efFA tir S Practices. Existing practices are to use a General Fund allocation for maintenance
of park, median, trails, and existing open space. The City intends to use a portion of the Natural Areas sales _
tax revenues to build a maintenance endowment for natural areas purchased with Natural Areas sales tax
revenues. _
Parks Division expenditures, excluding capital outlays, are expected to increase at an annual nm of 6 percent
between 1990 and 1995. A 6 percent increase is generally equivalent to a 3 percent increase in real growth
excluding inflation. Park improvements requiring upkeep are increasing at an annually rate of about 8
percent, excluding inflation. In addition, the City has a significant inventory of unfunded infrastructure
needing replacement and/or repair. —
MERITS dt L UTATIONS - ComnMATION OF MOSM* PRACTICES
+ Minirnal analysis time. - Insufficient city revenues to mat needs if City
+ No disruption to curreat financial practices. intends to 5nence the substantial inventory of
deferred maintenance needs
- Existing sources of revenue are not commensurate
with facility usage.
Ad#rrsdnent to Curmt User Fee Policy. Consideration of several adjustments to the City's existing user
fee policies an presented for deliberation.
• Non-residents could be charged for the program portion and the community good portion of the
Recreation Fund. The logic is that non-residents have not paid for the community good portion of the
service, since they are not city tax payers. This policy change would indirectly benefit the Parks Division
because it would free some General Fund revenues.
• Non-residents could also be charged for their pro -rate, share of park upkeep, associated with usage of the
facilities, since they do not pay city taxes.
Currently, all tax payers finance park upkeep, based primarily on their assessed valuation and their
purchase of taxable retail sales items. Then is no relationship between park usage and paying for park
upkeep. It may be reasonable to adjust the user fee schedule such that all users would pay for a larger
portion of services rendered, including the full Recreation Fund budget, their pro-rata share of park
upkeep, and indirect administrative costs. The equity in this technique is that general taxes could then be
used only for services which cannot be assessed, such as administration, police protection, and planning.
Those who are not park users would pay less for parks.
Non -local tournament sponsors could be charged for the fully -burdened cost of park facilities; their charge _
could include a proportional share of direct and indirect costs associated not only with the Recreation
Division, but also costs associated with park upkeep, police and traffic services, and general
administration.
.I
Credits
city Council
Ann Azari, Mayor
Gina Janett, Pro Tern
Alan Apt
Chris Kneeland
Bob McCluskey, Jr.
Will Smith
Charles Wanner
Parks and Recreation Natural Resource
Advisory Board
Marilyn Barnes
Rebecca Chavez
Sylvia Cranmer
Rich Feller (Former)
Lance Freeman
Jessica MacMillan
Mary Ness
Delmar Price
Eric Reno (Former)
Roger Tarum
Diane Thies, Chair
City Staff
John Fischbach, City Manager
Steve Roy, City Attorney
Carrie Daggett, Assistant City Attorney
Mike Powers, Director of Cultural, Library
and Recreational Services
Marty Heffernan, Assistant to the Director
of Cultural, Library and Recreational
Services
Janet Meisel, Park Planner and Project
Manager, ASLA
Advisory Board
Jan Behunek
Philip Friedman
Tim Johnson (Former)
Linda Kirkpatrick
Katy Mason
Craig McGee
William Miller
Phil Murphy, Chair
Kelly Ohlson
Ed Secor
Lisa Steffes (Former)
Craig Foreman, Civil Engineer
Randy Balok, Park Planner
Jean Helburg, Recreation Manager
Virgil Taylor, Manager of Parks
Tim Buchanan, City Forester
Tom Shoemaker, Natural Resources
Director
Karen Mani, Environmental Planner
Jackie Darner, Secretary III
Jackie Rael, Administrative Aide III
Port Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
W
MERITS & L[WrATlONS - b xaLtism Usmt FEEs
+ User pays-, non -user is relieved of payment
- Time-consuming staff work to calculate and
+ Non -local sponsors may not object to a change in
administer fees,
policy.
- Even if uses, fees covet IOMA of associated costs, this
leaves passive parks, open space and trails to be
funded with General Fund revenues.
Sic Project Endowment During the last revenue year, the Natural Areas sales tax revenues will be used
to fund an endowment for perpetual upkeep of the natural areas purchased under the program. This concept could
be extended to other specific projects or types of improvements, such as trails. For illustrative purposes, if a
foundation were endowed at $500,000, this may generate interest earnings of $37,500 (7.5% annually) which
should be sufficient to maintain approximately 12 acres of parks.
Impact Fee for Endowing a Maintenance Fund Currently, the parkland fee includes funds only for acquisition
and development of neighborhood parks. It excludes fimds for maintenance because an impact "fee" cannot
legally be used for general city maintenance requirements. One idea to consider would be to increase the impact
fee to fimd an endowment specifically for the perpetual maintenance of the improvements (neighborhood parks)
created by the new development activity. To avoid double payment for park maintenance by residents of new
housing, it would be critical to segregate funds for "new" neighborhood parks from the General Fund, which
would continue to be used to maintain existing neighborhood parks.
MERITS & LnmTAnoNs - ErmowatO MAINTENANCE Ftnlm
+ Growth pays its way more fully.
- Challenging legal issues.
+ Existing residents & businesses are relieved
- Residential developers may feel as if they are being
+ Maintenance costs associated with existing
singled out and raise objection.
neighborhood patios could be capped at current levels
plus inflation.
+ A new source of revenue.
Increasing Saks do Use Twr Rate Cirrattly, the City's local sales and use tax rate is 3.0 percent. In 1995, each
0.25 percent sales and use tax will generate approximately $3,146,590 if groceries are exempt; this revenue
source increases annually with inflation -based increases in taxable retail sales.
The City could propose an initiative to increase the sales tax another 0.25 percent for 4.5 years to fully fiord the
backlog of defexred maintenance park projects. Once these projects were complete, a sales tax increase of 0.05
percent should be sufficient to finance routine capital outlay at an annual expenditure level of $600,000.
MERITS & L mATnONs - INCREASING THE SALES TAx RATE
+ Places some of the burden on non —local visitors, - Requires voter approval.
some of whom use the eiVs parks. - Challenging to solicit voter approval for projects that
+ Predicable and sizable revenue strem may have low popular impact from an image or
+ Increases with inflation visual perspective.
-13-
foundation can be established such that gifts and grants are exempt from federal income tax pursuant to the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, §501(cx3). Such a foundation would also qualify to receive charitable
contributions that are deductible for income, estate and gift tax purposes. In addition, the supporting
foundation may qualify to receive funds under federal programs which are available only to §501(cx3)
organizations.
Since "gifts" are excluded from the spending and revenue limitations of the TABOR Amendment, this
concept may be particularly attractive if Fort Collins approaches TABOR Amendment constraints.
MERrrs dt Limrm'noNS - ESTABI IsH NG A PARKS FOUNDATION
+ Provides a vehicle for atiluent, civic -minded - Time-consuming endeavor to establish and operate.
citizens to contribute something of lasting value. - Might not produce substantial revenues; at least at first.
+ Creates a vehicle to solicit federal funds which - May be useful only for special, high image facilities.
are available only to private, non-profit - A supporting foundation which actually provides a
foundations governmental service may not qualify as a §501(cX3)
+ A new source of potential revenue. organization. Some legal interpretation is needed.
+ Exempt from TABOR Amendment constraints.
Docents & Volunteers. Several communities have found that an investment in establishing a continuing
program to recruit and use docents and volunteers has either reduced costs or, more often, enabled the
community to provide better quality services for a longer duration than without the program. Since use of
docents and volunteers is exempt from TABOR Amendment limitations, as it is a gift, the concept might
merit special consideration if the City approaches TABOR limits. Fort Collins already has several
outstanding illustrative applications of this program through the Fort Collins Museum and the Fort Collins
Library.
Utility. The term utility has two different connotations, depending on which portion of the Colorado Revised
Statutes are applied.
• Local Government Utility. Cities have the authority to create, franchise or license utilities under C.R.S.
§31-21-101 to 201. While this statute is typically used to franchise electric, gas and telephone services,
it has also been used by the City of Fort Collins to create a street utility.
• PUC-Regulated Utility. A local government may become a utility under the Public Utilities Commission
(PUC) whenever it provides service outside of its corporate boundaries. The PUC's statutory authority
is contained in C.R.S. §40-2-108.
Local Government Utility (GAS §31-21-101 et seq) One intent of forming a utility might be so that the City
can impose a utility fee or charge for usage. This is analogous to an electric system, which finances its on-
going operations and maintenance with monthly service charges. By imposing a utility fee or charge, cities
are able to relieve their General Fund of one financial burden, thereby freeing revenues for other purposes
without a tax increase.
Fort Collins has used the concept of a local government utility in a creative way. In 1985, the City
established a Transportation Utility Fund and charged property owners a monthly maintenance fee, which
was calculated using land use, trips generated and front footage. Fees were collected for three years (1985
through 1987); the fee appeared as an additional entry to the City utility bill. Between $500,000 and
$1,000,000 was collected annually. The City was sued in 1987 by plaintiffs claiming the monthly
maintenance charge was really a tax and, as a tax, was imposed incorrectly. The City won the law suit at
-15-
the Colorado Supreme Court level. In March, 1992, the City rescinded its Transportation Utility Fund
ordinance and passed 015 percent Saks tax earmarked for street maintenance.
PUC-Regulated Utility. In some situations, when local governments provide services outside of their
corporate boundaries; they cane under the regulatory authority of the Colorado public Utility Commission.
For example, cities providing transit services outside of their corporate boundaries are regulated by the PUC.
A PUC regulated utility must complete an application and file an annual report. The PUCs primary interest
is that the public is being saved fairly. Form a practical perspective, PUCs review of rates for governmental
utilities is cursory because most rates are substantially subsidized by local governments. The moat stringat
requirement appears to be associated with insurance, since local governments' statutory liability ailing is
applicable ottly within its corporate limits. 'There are no additional financial authorities that come with being
a PUC-regulated utility.
If the City were to build a park or recreation facility outside of the corporate boundaries and charge a fee,
it would not come under the regulatory authority of the PUC.
The City Attorney believes that it is not necessary to form a utility to impose a "special service fee."
I Mmn tit 1.nAtrAnoNs - F.sreehlSMO A PARKS UTrn.mr I
+ Once established, a utility becomes a separate,
operation that is less reliant on General Fund
revenues.
- Time-consuming endeavor to establish utility
11un a staff perspective.
- Tbis would be a new fee; may trigger citizen
concerns.
- Creation of a perks utility does not provide new
authorities to the city.
19
APPENDIX A: CASE EXAMPLES - PARKS FINANCE POLICIES
This appendix summarizes a series of telephone interviews with parks directors regarding policies and
practices to finance park on -going operations and maintenance. The cities interviewed were Aurora,
Boulder, Colorado Springs, Denver, Portland, Seattle, and Westminster.
CITY OF AURORA- PARKS FINANaNG
Contacts:
Christine Grimaud, 695-7160
Linda Strand, Conservation Trust Fund
On -Going
The Parks Department does maintain parks and landscaped medians. Aurora
Operations &
uses General Fund revenues to fund operations and maintenance. The Parks
Maintenance
Department has not had a problem in receiving funds its needs.
Infrastructure
The City uses Conservation Trust Fund revenues for replacement capital. In
Replacement &
1992, there was a bond issue on the ballot for recreation center renovations and
Renovation
improvements to several parks; it failed.
Use user fees to
No
finance operations
and maintenance?
Use Impact Fees
No
to Endow a Fund
for Maintenance?
Use endowments
The City has a "tree of life" program under which people can donate a tree in a
or contributions
deceased person's name. The program is not advertised or used extensively.
for ftmding park
map?
Use docents or
The City recently hired a volunteer action coordinator and has just begun to
volunteers?
initiate a program.
-17-
Ctrx of BouLDiE t - PARKS FINANCinG
Contacts:
Shirley Sedecky, Administrative Assistant, Parks Department, 441-3400
Michael Sullivan, Open Space, 441-3440
On -Going
General park upkeep is funded through the City's General Fund.
Operations &
Maintenance
Mountain Pars & Trails: In November, 1994, Boulder residents voted to
reinstate a 0.15% sales tax for the next 25 years. Tax revenues are earmarked for
mountain park development and maintenance. Most of the City of Boulder's trail
system in within its mountain parks.
infrastructure
Boulder has a dedicated 0.9 mill levy for park capital projects; some of these
Replacement &
funds are available for replacement and repair of infrastructure.
Renovation
Recreation Facilities: Boulder imposes a 250 surcharge on every admission to
its recreation centers and its outdoor pools to cover replacement and repair.
Go#' Boulder imposes a surcharge of $1.50 for 9-holes and $3.00 for 19 holes
of play for refurbishment of its course and clubhouse.
Use user fees to
Boulder is in the first year of a five year program designed to structure user fees
finance operations
throughout the City so that each fee schedule fully recovers all direct and indirect
and maintenance?
costs for services rendered.
Currently, user fees for non-residents average about 25% higher than fees for
residents.
Soccer Fields: Recently, the local soccer association approached City Council
seeking nine sand -based soccer fields which cost 3.5 times more than dirt soccer
fields. Staff could not justify the expenditure with General Fund revenues. The
association agreed that through a substantial increase in user fees, it would fully
fund the construction and on -going (high -cost) maintenance of the fields.
Regional Tournaments: For major events, such as the lose Cuervo Volleyball
Tournament the former Coors Classic, and the Kinetic Connection, Boulder
imposes user fees that cover 100 percent of its direct and indirect costs to host
the event (including operations, maintenance and replacement costs) plus 50
percent. There has been no objection to the fee schedule among paying
tournament sponsors.
Use impact fees to
Boulder imposes a park development fee; revenues are available for both land
endow a
acquisition and park development.
maintenance
fund?
- 3-
CITY OF BOULDER - PARKS FINANCING
Use endowments
Boulder has a Park and Recreation Foundation, which is a conduit to receive and
or contributions to
expend tax -advantaged gifts for park and recreation needs. The fund has been
finance operations
active for a while but is being re -energized with a new and active Board. The
or maintenance?
Foundation has about $360,000.
Use docents or
Through its volunteer coordinator, Boulder maintains and encourages an
volunteers?
extensive volunteer program focused around an adopt -a -park program.
CITY OF COLORADO SPRINGS - PARKS FINANCING
Contacts:
Marvin Harris, 719-578-6856
On -Going
Primarily General Fund
Operations &
Maintenance
To reduce labor costs, the City encourages teams to purchase chalk liners and "do
their own" field preparation. The City will drag the field but is encouraging teams
to do their own lines; their is a reduction in fees for team chalking rather than
City chalking.
Similarly, The City is encouraging youth soccer associations to purchase their
own portable goals rather than have the City install and remove permanent goals.
This concept doesn't work well for the adult association.
For Outside tournaments, CS charges a per -hour maintenance fee plus a charge
for use of the field. This enables park maintenance to break even. They collected
about $25,000 in I994.
Infrastructure
The primary current source for capital investment for parks is the Conservation
Replacement &
Trust Fund.; Colorado Springs receives about $2,000,000 per year.
Renovation
The City initiated a "capital account surcharge" of $7.50 per player to acquire and
develop active sports fields plus.$25 per team. These revenues go into a reserve
account within the Parks Division.
In 1991, voters passed a phasing out of the City's 0.5% sales tax which was
earmarked for capital projects. The 5-year phase out schedule is: 0.4% in 1992,
0.3% in 1993; 0.2% in 1994; 0.1 % in 1995 and 0 in 1996. Since fewer dollars are
available each year, parks expects effectively no future revenues from this source.
-19-
Cm OF COLORADO SrRiNGS - PARKS F90MINVG
Use user fees to
For outside tournaments, the Parks Division charges a he for use of fields
finance
operations and
maintenance?
Use impact fees
There are no impact fees for parks. Developers are only required to dedicate land.
to endow a
The City has an "excess" of raw land waiting to be developed.
maintenance
fund?
Use endowments
At the Garden of the Gods park, the City recently built a visitoe's center on
or contributions
privately -leased land and has leased the facility to a private concessionaire. One
to finance
component of the concessionaire's lease agreement is a commitment to remit
operations and
$75,000 per year to the City for maintenance of the park. This money will go into
maintenance?
a fund, earmarked for maintenance of this park.
Colorado Springs has active tax -advantaged giving programs, including "Friends
of the Garden -of -the -Gods Park", "Friends of North Cheyenne Canyon Paris", the
"Living History Museum and others.
The City maintains 30 different gift trust accounts for donor use.
Use volunteers
Colorado Springs has active "adopt -a -park" and "adopt -a -median" programs
or docents?
which use volunteers. The market value of volunteer programs, at minimum
wage levels, is S800,000 per year.
CM of DENVER - PARKS lhrmANCING
Contacts:
Ron McKitrick, Park Operations: 699-4901
Mark Fiarity, Parks Finance: 964-2560
On -Going
The General Fund finances on -going operations and maintenance.
Operations dt
Maintenance
Denver now requires private landscape companies that install landscaping in
medians to provide a one to two-year full maintenance contract. This gives
Denver information regarding future maintenance costs as well as time to go to
City Council to obtain future funding for maintenance. There have been some
administrative problems with some contractors who see the commitment similar
to a as a warranty of plant materials and not a full -service maintenance
requirement, including snow removal.
lnfiastructure
Denver uses its Capital Improvements Fund, which receives revenues and
Replacement dt
Conservation Trust Fund revenues and its employee head tax.
Renovation
The City recently renegotiated its lease agreement with the Winter Park
Recreational Association; under this new lease, the City will receive $2,000,000
annually. These revenues will be used for maintenance.
The City does not have the resources to compile a list of deferred infrastructure
replacement and renovation requirements although the request has been made by
City Council. If such a list were compiled, the total would be in the tens -of -
million dollars.
Use user fees to
No user fee revenues flow back into the operations, maintenance or infrastructure
finance operations
replacement budget.
and maintenance?
Use impact fees to
There we no park development fees at this time. However, the City is
endow a
considering the imposition of a fee in the Gateway area.
maintenance
frond?
Use endowments
There are no endowments established for perpetual maintenance.
or contributions to
finance operations
and maintenance?
Use volunteers or
Denver has docent programs which fiord and provide volunteer staff for
docents?
specialized facilities such as the Denver Zoo, the Natural History Museum, the
Art Museum and the Library.
Denver recently hired a volunteer coordinator and has started an "adopt -a -trail"
program. There are no "adopt -a -park" programs. For safety reasons, Denver
believes that it is not appropriate to have volunteers maintain street medians.
'W.
Cm, of PORTLAND - PARKS FINANCING
Contacts:
Jim Gardener; Operations Division, City of Portland
6437 SE Division Street, Portland, OR 97206, 503-823-1608
Rich Gunderson, Recreation Manager, City of Portland
1120 SW 5th; Suite #1302; Portland OR 97204; 503-823-6131
On -Going
The City is working towards a goal of having adult user groups finance their
Operations &
full share of parks maintenance; youth user groups will continue to be
Maintenance
subsidized. The City intends to charge not only for direct maintenance but
also for renovation, and a fair pro-rata share of administrative expenses. A
cost of service study is underway; this study will provide base data upon
which to restructure user fees. Currently, user groups finance about 60
percent of total maintenance and renovation costs of the parks and facilities
that they use.
At Waterfront Park, which is a major park used for concerts and festivals, the
City imposes a user fee which may range from $35 to $6,000 per use section
plus a rehabilitation fee, which is based on actual costs. The rehabilitation fee
is calculated on a point system; points correspond to number of people
attending, number of vehicles used for set-up, propane cooking requirements,
etc. This fee arrangement has been in place for 5 years and works well and
without complaints
Infrastructure
There is no dedicated revenue sources to finance capital projects. (Oregon
Replacement &
does not have a sales tax.) However, voters just approved a $58.5 million
Renovation
bond issue to finance parks; debt service will be repaid with an increase in
property taxes. Since 90 percent of the revenues will be used to finance
infrastructure renovation and replacement, and 10 percent will be used to
finance new facilities, the Parks Department anticipates that the operations
and maintenance costs may remain flat or go down slightly, relative to current
conditions.
Use user fees to
User fees are used to finance maintenance and renovation costs. A typical fee
finance operations
for an outside field is $4 per hour per field. (See discussion above.)
and maintenance?
The City used to charge higher rates for non-residents; when the Department
experienced staffing cutbacks in the 1980s, it abandoned the differential fee
structure to save time. At that time, resident rates were increased so that the
Department did not lose revenue.
Use impact fees to
There are no park development fees. The City recently considered the
endow a maintenance
imposition of street and utility fees but met substantial opposition.
fund?
CITY of PORTLAND - PARKS InNANCING
Use endowments or
There are several endowments for maintenance of specific facilities. For
contributions to
example, the Rotary Club finance the development of playground facilities for
finance operations
handicapped children and endowed a fund with $75,000 for the perpetual
and maintenance?
upkeep of the facility. (Handicapped equipment has relatively high
maintenance requirements, since it must remain in flawless working order at
all times.)
There are some programs where individuals can contribute money or an
improvements, such as a park bench or tree, in memory of a deceased person,
but the City does not encourage this because most givers want to give a
particular improvement at a particular facility.
Use volunteers or
Portland uses volunteers, such as Boy Scouts, and prisoners extensively.
docents ?
This effort works well for specialized facilities such as the City's rose
gardens, and works less well for routine maintenance and clean-up.
Other Remarks
Financing Sports -Oriented Major Capital Improvements. To the extent
Offered
possible, Portland intends to have athletic associations participate in the
financing of future sports -oriented improvements. For example, the City is
currently considering constructing of an athletic complex (Delta Park), which
will have 5 softball fields in a spoke arrangement plus 3 out fields plus 8
soccer fields, batting cages, restaurant, rest rooms and other complimentary
facilities. Current plans are for the City to finance between one-third and one-
half of the facility and the softball association to finance between one-half and
two-thirds of the facility. The City would provide the land, retain revenues,
and provide on -going maintenance.
The City intends to schedule 90 percent of its adult softball and soccer league
activity at Delta Park and. use neighborhood ball fields for youth softball and
soccer only.
G. Evaluation of outdoor tennis courts
The City has done some work in this area and needs the Consultant to review our
ideas, compare our service level with other communities and help develop a plan
that can be included in this update.
H. Recreation and park facility fee policy
The Consultant will provide information about other community's recreation fee
policies for staff review. The City needs to change our fee policy to match our
present budgeting objectives. The actual development of a new fee policy will not
occur with the update.
I. Overview of the present parks, trails, forestry and recreation facilities and programs
This section tags to A. with our need to know from the Consultant what they see as
important to include in this update.
J. Survey
The City would work with the Consultant to generate the questions for the survey.
Our particular interest is with questions that support the City's Budgeting for
Outcomes budget process.
K. Consultant help with the writing of the report
This is another section where options appear appropriate for the City to review.
CLARIFICATION:
Project Cost:
The understanding is that the City's $50,000 estimate will likely not fully cover all the
items in the Request for Proposal. The City would like to see the Consultants supply a
"base bid" as close to the estimate as possible. With the Consultant applying their
knowledge of these plans to indicate where they would spend the limited resources the
City has available. Beyond this base bid can be optional items with fees that the City
can select if additional funds are available.
Please direct any questions regarding this addendum to John D. Stephen, CPPO, CPPB,
Senior Buyer, (970) 221-6777
RECEIPT OF THIS ADDENDUM MUST BE ACKNOWLEDGED BY A WRITTEN
STATEMENT ENCLOSED WITH THE BID/QUOTE STATING THAT THIS
ADDENDUM HAS BEEN RECEIVED
Acknowledgments
The 1996 update to the Parks and
Recreation Policy Plan could not have
been completed without the assistance
and expertise given by the consultants of
EDAW, Inc. The Park Planning and
Development staff wishes to thank Jana
McKenzie and Tom Keith.
The Park Planning and Development staff
would also like to thank those citizens
who worked on the Citizens Advisory
Committee whose expertise, valuable
opinions and commitment of time greatly
assisted in the update of the 19% Policy
Plan.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Flan
l-n
Crnt of SEATTLE - PARxs FINANCING
Contacts: Curt Green; Parks Depwonent; City of Seattle; 100 Dexter North, Seattle,
WA 98109; 206-684-6371
On -Going In 1%8, the citizens of Seattle joined forces to pass a major bond issue for
Operations & parks. These citizens understood the significance of on -going maintenance
Maintenance requirements. At the some time that this vote was passed, these citizens
approached to State expand enabling authorities of cities in Washington to
have a local option sales tax. These citizens are still around and they continue
to press for sufficient funds for park maintenance.
Twenty years ago (1975� the Seattle budget office established a practice that
whenever a new park was developed, that the Parks Deportment was expected
to submit a stand-alone line -item addition to its operations and maintenance
budget to finance the additional facility; in subsequent years, this addition
becomes part of the baseline budget. This practice continues and works well.
The Department is not expected to cover maintenance costs with existing
resources.
In addition, the Budget Office maintains a practice of presenting to City
Council the on -going costs of operations and maintenance when they are
deciding whether or not to build a new facility.
About 75 percent of the budget is financed with general tax revenues, which
are primarily sales and property taxes. About 25 percent of the budget is
financed with user fees. This includes 18 percent which is user fees from
special facilities such as the zoo, aquarium and swimming pools.
The Engineering Department maintains landscaped medians; even those that
the Parks Department "owns."
Infrastructure
There are no dedicated sources of revenue for capital investments.
Replacement &
Renovation
Over the last 10 to 15 years, the Parks Department has been losing ground in
financing major maintenance improvements. However, this condition is
changing. The City has recently established a Cnanukrtive Reserve Fund to
finance major replacement and repair needs throughout the City. Revenues
are from fund consolidations and "excess" fund balances. This consolidation
and sweep of "excess" revenues netted about 536,000,000.
Within the Parks Department, financing on major replacement and repairs
will increase from a historic level of $2,000,000 per year to $9,500,000 per
year for the next sever years. This increased level of expenditure should
substantially decrease the inventory deferred maintenance.
Use user fees to
A part of user fees paid by athletic leagues does go towards maintenance, but
finance operations
these fees do not cover 100 percent of the maintenance costs.
and maintenance?
Golf and the marinas are exceptions; these are self-sustaining.
CITY OF SEATPLE - PARKS FINANCING
Use impact fees to
There are no development impact fees.
fund an endowment
for maintenance?
Use endowments or
Beach Maintenance 7)wt Fund. Seattle has 21 miles of shoreline. There is a
contributions to
Beach Maintenance Trust Fund of $2,000,000 which is dedicated to maintain
finance operations
beaches.
and maintenance?
Discovery Park: In one instance, Seattle METRO wanted to expand its sewer
treatment facility within a major waterfront park, Discovery Park. The
citizens took METRO to court In a settlement, METRO was required to put
up $25,000,000 to endow the perpetual maintenance of the park.
Use docents or
There is a tremendous use of volunteers at the zoo and aquarium.
volunteers?
There is a volunteer coordinator in each of three districts. This person
manages the adopt -a -park program and volunteers at the recreation centers.
-25-
Cyn of WESTmiNsTut - PAwcs FnvnrtcnvG
Contacts:
Richard Dahl, Manager of Parks Division; City of Westminster,
4800 W. 92nd Ave.; Westminster, 80030-6399; 430-2400 x 2202
On -Going
General Fund revenues are used to finance perks on -going operations and
Operations &
maintenance. The Parks Division also finances maintenance of landscaped
Maintenance
medians out of its General Fund. The median maintenance program costs about
$80,000 annually.
Westminster is interested in privatizing its roads rights -of -way, similar to the
Fort Collins program.
Infrastructure
Westminster manages its park development, park enhancement, and
Replacement &
infrastructure replacement and repair through its Parks Capital Construction
Renovation
Program. Four sources of revenue are funneled into the Capital Construction
Program: the City's attributable share of the Jef lCo Open Space revenues,
Conservation Trust Fund revenues, revenues from the 0.25% sales tax for open
space and park improvements and the park development fee.
The sales tax dedicated to open space and park development was approved in
November, 1990 for a for a five-year time period (1991-1995), and was
approved again in November, 1994 for a second five-year time period (1996 -
2000).
Improvements are scheduled wherever they are most needed.
Westminster probably has millions of dollars of unfunded infrastructure needs,
but the needs are not specified at this time. One good example is the drainage
systems within many parks which are approaching 30-years in age.
In addition, in citywide image -creating program, now underway, citizens are
developing a strong interest in substantial, landscaped entry treatments. The
Parks Division is working to increase awareness of the on -going operations and
maintenance consequences of one-time capital improvements.
Use user fees to
No user fees are used for park operations, maintenance; development or
finance operations
infrastructure replacement and repair.
and maintenance?
Use impact fees to
There is a park development fee imposed on new development. Revenues are
fund an
funneled into the Capital Construction Program. Revenues from new
endowment for
development are not necessarily spent in the neighborhood where new
maintenance?
development occurred; revenues are spent where they are most needed from a
citywide perspective. Due to extensive new development, the City has ample
raw land for future park development.
Use endowments
Westminster does not use endowments to fund park needs. There is no tax
or contributions to
advantaged giving program.
finance operations
& maintenance?
Use of volunteers
Westminstees volunteer programs tend to be for one-time events. There are no
or docents?
continuing programs such as an "adopt -a -park" program.
-26-
APPENDIX B: RESIDENT - NON-RESIDENT PARK/RECREATION FEES
A Sampling of Colorado Municipalities
SMO NG OF RESIDENT & NON-RESIDENT PMM & RECREATION FEE SCHEDULES
RESIDENT
NON-RESIDENT
Fat Collins
M Card
n/a
n!a
20 punch -card
$32.00
$32.00
30 punch -card
$45.00
$45.00
Boulder
M Card (annual)
S5.00
Tits
20 punch -card
S58.00
$73.00
Annual Pass
$338.00
S422.00
Broomfield
ID Card (annual)
S5.00
S5.00
1 moth pass
$25.00
$30.00
Denver
M Card (atmual)
S5.00
$20.00
Wash Park Weight Roan Pau
$20.00 year
$20.00 year
Wash Park Pool Pass
$30.00 year
S60.00 year
Englewood
ID Card (2 years)
S2.00
n/a
30 punches (wtlocker)
$59.00
$69.00
6 month pass
$110.00
$140.00
Longmont
ID Card
n/a
n/a
5 punch -card
S9.50
S9.50
10 punch -card
$18.00
$18.00
20 pinch -card
S32.00
S32.00
Thortwn
M Card (2 years)
$5.00
$7.00
20 punch -card
S48.00
S64.00
Annual Pass
$225.00
$330.00
Westminster
1D Card (2 years)
S1.50
n/a
1S punch -card
S27.00
S42.00
�Ual Pass
S 140.00
$210
Source: Coley/Fmrest, Inc. field investigation, Fdmuwy,199S
.27-
K144:Q10A
TAKEN FROM 19% FINANCIAL POLICIES
7 f 4 1 Y 1711207101
y
The following fee policy for the Recreation Fund was adopted by Resolution 90-132 on
September 4, 1990. The goal of the policy is to provide for a more equitable distribution
of the costs of recreational programs between program users and General Fund tax dollars.
Costs associated with the Recreation Fund shall be defined as either: 1) Program Costs; or
2) Community Good Costs.
1. Program costs are directly associated with the actfvid and facilities used by the.
citizens, and include the following:
• part time staff
• materials
• equipment
• participant transportation
• and costs directly associated with conducting activities
• minor repairs
• custodial equipment and supplies
• building utilities
• specialized items
• other operations and maintenance costs directly associated with operating facilities
Fees should cover the cost of the direct program experience and facilities used. However,
fees may be established in accordance with the market value of the recreational services
provided. The fees charged will not exceed the cost of providing direct services to program
users.
2. Community Good costs are those costs that are necessary to provide a program but are not
directly experienced by the user. Such costs include the following:
• full time recreation staff
• office operation costs such as telephone and computer charges
• training costs
dues and subscriptions
insurance
• office supplies and equipment
• other costs not directly experienced by the users
The General Fund shall cover "Community Good" costs. General Fund will also cover
deficits in programs that cannot recover all their casts through fees. Generally, these include
programs designed for special populations where it is not feasible to cover the total cost of
participation, or programs, like youth sports where Council policy requires a fee discount.
Because costs that are defined as "Community Good" costs are supported by the General
Fund, they are subject to the same operational guidelines as established for other General
Fund budgets.
Revenues collected by the Recreation Division that exceed expenditures in any given year are used
to fund designated reserves. /
• Designated for Operations - to be maintained at 7 % of the program costs portion of the fund, -
excluding one-time capital items and lease purchase payments. This reserve will only be
used to cover revenue shortfalls.
• Designed for Scholarships - established to pay fees for participants who are unable to afford
full fees for programs; targeted at 3 % of the program cost portion of the fund, but the level
of funding is determined by the Recreation Manager, based on tentative plans for future
needs and the availability of net resources.
• Designated for Buildings and Improvements - to be used for one-time improvements and
upkeep of recreation facility infrastructure. The reserve level is determined by the ,
Recreation Manager, based on tentative plans for future needs and the availability of net
i�4
• Designated for Life Cycle/Capital Needs - to be used for one-time improvements and upkeep
of equipment or for one-time purchases over what was budgeted to maintain safety and
improve service delivery. The reserve level is determined by the Recreation Manager, based
on tentative plans for future needs and the availability of net resources.
• Designated for Programs - to be used for the start-up of new or the expansion of existing
recreation activities and services which require additional revenue.
Table of Contents
CHAPTER ONE - INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER TWO — THE PLAN
A. Introduction...................................................... 2-1
B. Summary Recommendations ....................................... 2-1
C. Goals and Policies ................................................. 2-2
D. Parkland Standards ................................................ 2.7
1. Existing Level of Service ........................................ 2-7
2. Standards and Level of Service Provided Other Communities ....... 2-8
3. Land Required to Accommodate Community Needs .............. 2-10
a. Community Parks .......................................... 2-10
b. Neighborhood Parks ........................................ 2-11
4. Summary ..................................................... 2-12
E. Classification Standards and Guidelines ............................ 2-12
1. Neighborhood Parks ........................................... 2-13
2. Community Parks ............................................. 2-15
3. Park Preserves ................................................ 2-16
4. Natural Areas ................................................. 2-17
5. Trails......................................................... 2-19
a. Paved Multi -Purpose Off -Street Trails ........................ 2-19
b. Non -Paved Multi -Purpose Trails_ ............................. 2-20
c. Trailheads................................................. 2-20
F. Park System Recommendations .................................... 2-20
1. Introduction.................................................. 2-20
2. Neighborhood Parks ........................................... 2.21
3. Community Parks ............................................. 2-22
4. Park Preserves ................................................ 2-23
a. Fossil Creek Reservoir Regional Park ......................... 2-23
b. Strauss Cabin Park ......................................... 2-23
c. Gateway Park .............................................. 2-24
5. Special Community Facilities ................................... 2-24
a. Swimming Pools ........................................... 2-24
b. Multi -Purpose Recreation Centers ........................... 2-24
c. Community Horticulture Center ............................. 2-24
6. Natural Areas ................................................. 2-25
7. Trails........................................................ 2-25
8. Miscellaneous Improvements and Management Plans ............ 2-26
Fort Collins Parlo and Recreation Policy Plan
i-iii
9. Responding to the Demand for Recreation Facilities .............. 2-27
CHAPTER THREE — EXISTING RESOURCES
A.
Introduction......................................................
3-1
1. 1ristory of Parks and Recreation Services .......................... 3-1
B.
Municipal Parks and Recreation Resources ...........................
3-5
1. Introduction................................................... 3-5
2. Inventory of City Facilities and Resources .........................
3-7
a. Parks ....................................................... 3-7
b. Recreation Facilities ........................................
3-10
c. Trails and Open Lands Inventory ............................
3-14
d. Golf Courses ...............................................
3-15
e. Other Properties ...........................................
3-17
3. Condition of City Parks ........................................
3-17
a. Community Parks ..........................................
3-17
b. Large Neighborhood Parks ..................................
3-18
c. Mini -Neighborhood Parks ...................................
3-20
d. Trails and Natural Areas ....................................
3-21
e. Recreation Facilities ........................................
3-21
f. Golf Courses ...............................................
3-22 --
g. Water Use .................................................
3-23
C.
School District Recreational Resources ..............................
3-24
D.
Regional Recreational Resources ...................................
3-24
1. Federal.......................................................
3-24
2. State ........................................................
3-25 '-
3. County .......................................................
3-25
E.
Open Lands Opportunities .......................................
3-28 _
1. Floodplains...................................................
3-29
2. Wildlife Habitats ..............................................
3-29
3. Visually Sensitive Zone ........................................
3-30
4. Region Between Fort Collins and Loveland ......................
3-30
CHAPTER FOUR — ISSUES AND NEEDS
A.
Demographic and Socioeconomic Factors ............................
4-1
_
1. Existing and Projected Population ................................ 4-1
2. Age Distribution ................................................
4-3
3. Income........................................................ 4-5
4. Summary ......................................................
4-5 ..�
B.
Recent Community Surveys ........................................
4-5
C.
Major RecreationaVSports Facilities .................................. 4-6
1. Gymnasiums (Basketball and Volleyball) ..........................
4-7
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
i-iv
Lo
E.
a. Participation Rates and Perceived Needs ...................... 4-7
b. Cost of Providing Services ...................................
4-11
c. Level of Service Comparison - Gymnasiums ..................
4-12
d. Conclusions ...............................................
4-12
2.
Baseball/Softball Fields .........................................
4-13
a. Participation Rates and Perceived Needs .....................
4-13
b. Cost of Providing Services ...................................
4-16
c. Level of Service Comparison = BasebaIVSoftball Fields ..........
4-17
d. Conclusions ...............................................
4-18
3.
Soccer/Football Fields ..........................................
4-18
a. Participation Rates and Perceived Needs .....................
4-19
b. Cost of Providing Services ...................................
4-22
c. Level of Service Comparison - Soccer/Football Fields ...........
4-22
d. Conclusions ...............................................
4-23
4.
Tennis Courts .................................................
4-24
a. Participation Rates and Perceived Needs .....................
4-24
b. Cost of Providing Services ...................................
4-25
c. Level of Service Comparison - Tennis Courts ..................
4-25
d. Conclusions ...............................................
4-26
5.
Swimming Pools ..............................................
4-26
a. Participation Rates and Perceived Needs .....................
4-26
b. Cost of Providing Services ...................................
4-28
c. Level of Service Comparison - Swimming Pools ...............
4-29
d. Conclusions ...............................................
4-29
6.
Ice Skating Arena ..............................................
4-30
a. Participation Rates and Perceived Needs .....................
4-30
b. Cost of Providing Services ...................................
4-32
c. Level of Service Comparison - Ice Skating Rinks ...............
4-33
d. Conclusions ...............................................
4-33
7.
Recreation Centers and Other City Facilities .....................
4-34
a. Participation Rates and Perceived Needs .....................
4-34
b. Cost of Providing Services ...................................
4-36
c. Level of Service Comparison - Recreation Centers .............
4-37
d. Conclusions ...............................................
4-37
8.
Other Emerging Needs ........................................
4-37
Parks....................................... I................
4-38
1.
Existing Parkland Standards ....................................
4-38
2.
Community Parks .............................................
4-40
3.
Neighborhood Parks ...........................................
4-42
Trails and Natural Areas ...........................................
4-47
1.
Trails........................................................
4-47
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
i-v
2. Open Lands and Natural Areas ................................. 4-48
CHAPTER FIVE - IMPLEMENTATION A. Introduction...................................................... 5-1
B. Implementation Actions ............................................ 5-2
APPENDICES
A. General Management Guidelines for City -Owned Open Space and Natural Areas
B. Comparative Level of Service Offered by Front Range Communities
C. Coley/Forrest Memorandum Regarding Maintenance Funding Options _
D. Recreation Fee Policy
LIST OF MAPS --
Map 2.1 Master Plan ..................................... end of Chapter 2
Map 3.1 Existing Conditions .............................. end of Chapter 3 _
Map 3.2 Open Lands Considerations ...................... end of Chapter 3
Map 4.1 Neighborhood Parkland Need ..................... end of Chapter 4
LIST OF TABLES
Table 2.1
Comparative Level of Service and Parkland Standards
..
In Selected Front Range Communities .......................
2-9
Table 3.1
Fort Collins Parks: Inventory ................................
3-8
Table 3.2
City :Owned Natural Areas ................................
3-16 -.
Table 3.3
Poudre School District Recreation Facilities ..................
3-26
Table 4.1
Historic Population Growth 1980-1990 .......................
4-1
Table 4.2
Projected Population Growth 1990-2005 ......................
4-2
Table 4.3
Fort Collins Age Distribution ................................
4-4
Table 4A
Historic and Projected Numbers of School Age Children .......
4-4 ^
Table 4.5
Historic Numbers of Participants in Basketball Programs .......
4-9
Table 4.6
Historic Numbers of Participants in Volleyball Programs ......
4-10 -`
Table 4.7
Comparison of Level of Service Provided for Gymnasiums
By Front Range Communities ..............................
4-12
Table 4.8
Historic Numbers of Participants in Baseball Programs .......
4-14
Table 4.9
Historic Numbers of Participants in Softball Programs ........
4-15
Table 4.10
Comparison of Level of Service Provided for Baseball/
Softball Fields by Front Range Communities .................
4-17
Table 4.11
Historic Numbers of Participants in Soccer Programs .........
4-20 -
Table 4.12
Historic Numbers of Participants in Football Programs ........
4-21
Table 4.13
Comparison of Level of Service Provided for Soccer/Football
Fields by Front Range Communities ........................
4-22
Table 4.14
Historic Numbers of Participants in Tennis Programs .........
4-24
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
i-vi
Table 4.15
Comparison of Level of Service Provided for Tennis
Courts by Front Range Communities .......................
4-25
Table 4.16
Historic Numbers of Participants in Swimming/
AquaticPrograms .........................................
4-27
Table 4.17
Comparison of Level of Service Provided for Swimming
Pools by Front Range Communities .........................
4-29
Table 4.18
Historic Numbers of Participants in Ice Skating Programs .....
4-31
Table 4.19
Comparison of Level of Service Provided for Ice Skating
Rinks by Front Range Communities ........................
4-33
Table 4.20
Historic Numbers of Participants in Archery Programs ........
4-34
Table 4.21
Comparison of Level of Service Provided for Recreation
Centers by Front Range Communities ......................
4-37
Table 4.22
Parkland Needs Based on Current City Standards ............
4-39
Table 4.23
Comparison of Area Devoted to Programmed Sports
Facilities in Selected Front Range Community Parks ..........
4-40
Table 4.24
Projected Neighborhood Parkland Needs by Area of the City..
4-43
Table 5.1
Implementation Actions ....................................
5-3
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
i-Vii
Chapter One
Introduction
Chapter One Introduction
In 19y5 the City of Fort Collins exceeded a
population of 100,000. Like any major
milestone, this event has elements of
symbolism as well as the force of reality.
Some perceptions, such as the view that
Fort Collins is still a small town, become
difficult to maintain in a city of 100,000
people. Other changes resulting from
growth, such as an expanded area of
urban development and increased
congestion, have
a visible reality.
Together, these
changes have
prompted a
broad
community
dialogue on how
to deal with
change and
make informed
choices about
the future. The
roles of parks,
recreation and natural areas are
central to this dialogue.
Fart Collins
Clearly, the City has an exceptional open
lands system including parks, trails,
recreation facilities and natural areas that
is highly valued by the community. As
the community continues to evolve,
however, new demands and questions
about the future direction of the system
have emerged.
\,'hat level of service should the City
provide for parks and recreational
facilities, At what point does demand
for a particular activity become
lluxtraorcinary" and thus require
partnerships and private financial
support !rom participants or others to
meet additional facility demands?
Some ;eginents of the community
believe that the
current park
system should
be better
balanced to
meet diverse
community
needs, and that
greater
emphasis should
be placed on
providing parks
that have more
amenities, space
!or unprogrammed play and.
accommodations for other leisure -
time pursuits. While in contrast, the
demand for programmed sports, such
as baseball and soccer, are continuing
to expand as the population increases.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
1-1
CITY PLAN and other community
dialogues stress the goal of creating
neighborhoods where commercial
centers, schools, parks and other
facilities are easily accessible by
pedestrians and bicyclists. The
current practice of providing one
fairly large neighborhood park in
each square mile doesn't address this
goal as effectively as smaller and
more numerous parks developed in
each neighborhood.
Natural Areas sales tax and
Conservation Trust funds have
supported the establishment of a
successful open lands program in the
City. The County -wide Help Preserve
Open Spaces Sales Tax program will
provide additional funding for open
lands in the City and Latimer County
through 2003. Each of these funding
services are designated for specific
types of open land or natural area
programs. Opportunities for
broadening the types of open lands
the City acquires should be explored,
as should opportunities for more joint
projects involving both the Park
Planning and Development Division
and the Natural Resources
Department.
In the course of preparing an update to
the City's 1988 Parks and Recreation
Master Plan, these and many other
community issues were identified. The
next chapter (Chapter 2) describes a
response to these issues and sets new
direction for the continued development
of the City's parks and recreation system,
including trails, recreation facilities,
natural areas and other open land _
programs. This new direction builds on
the strengths of the existing system,
retaining'the elements that have made
the Fort Collins system successful, while
also addressing new community needs and issues.
n
The evolution of the plan
recommendations can be found in
Chapters 3 and 4. Chapter 3 provides an
overview and evaluation of the existing
system. Needs and issues are discussed in
Chapter 4, including a summary of public
comment received as well as a
comparison of the Fort Collins system
with other Front Range communities.
Chapter 5 focuses on implementation _
strategies, particularly financial needs and
potential ways of meeting these needs. _
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
1-2
Chapter Two
The Plan
ATTENDANCE RECORD
PREBID CONFERENCE
Project: P1024 Parks and Recreation Policy Plan Update
Time: 3:00 P.M.Date: July 11, 2006
1 ncatinn-rnmmimity Room
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Chapter Two
A. Introduction
This chapter presents the recommended
policies and projects for the next ten to
fifteen years. The recommendations are
based on the analysis of community needs
and inventory of existing conditions
described in Chapters 3 and 4. The
discussion in this chapter begins with the
foundation for the development of the
plan -- a
comprehensive
statement of
goals and
policies. This
discussion is
followed by
recommended
parkland
standards, park
classification
standards and
criteria for the
acquisition of
parklands and other open lands.
Finally, recommended actions for the
continued growth and development of
the Fort Collins Parks, Recreation and
Open Lands system are presented
B. Summary Recommendations
The Policy Plan recommends developing
a balanced park system of recreation
areas, parks, natural areas and trails.
Balancing the system does not necessarily
mean equal and cannot be applied
The Plan
literally in al cases. This Plan
recotnmend3 that more area be dedicated
within neighborhood and community
parks for non -programmed or passive
uses. The amount of area devoted to
active or programmed sports in both
community and neighborhood parks will
be less than 40%. Greater emphasis on
partnerships to meet the extraordinary
demands for soccer, baseball and ice
skating will be
encouraged. The
overall parkland
standard would
increase to
7 acres/1,000
people, with
4.5 acres/1,000
population for
community
parks and
2.5 acres/1,000
population for
neighborhood
parks. The increase of the parkland
standard, combined with better
management practices in the parks, will
provide more non -programmed or
passive play areas.
More emphasis is placed on making
neighborhood parks usable and accessible
for the neighbor -hoods they serve. The
provision for several smaller parks, one to
two acres in size, is emphasized within
each square mile for new areas of the
community. This is in conformance with
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-1
the recommendations from CITY PLAN.
One larger neighborhood park (8 acres
minimum) will be developed to
accommodate recreational sport activities
for each square mile or service area if the
population density warrants.
Neighborhood parks should also be
co -located with regional stormwater
drainage ways or detention basins and/or
schools when possible. Neighborhood
parkland fees have been adjusted to
conform with the community parkland
fee structure - five fee levels based on
housing square feet.
Trails will continue to be developed
through the Conservation Trust Fund and
grant opportunities. Additional trail/path
connections will be developed between
neighborhoods, parks and the main
recreational trail system. Development of
the regional trail systems to Loveland,
Timnath and Windsor remain a priority
for the City. Natural areas will continue
to be purchased according to the Natural
Areas Policy Plan. In addition, more
"vacant' lot natural areas for creative
outdoor play should be developed in the
core area of the city.
Implementation and funding are critical
to the Policy Plan and are outlined in
detail in Chapter 5. The new Community
Parkland Fee will help develop
community parks after one of the existing
community parks has been developed.
The Plan recommends that Fossil Creek
Park be the first to be developed (within
the next 2-5 years). Development of
Southwest Community Park and land for
a new northeast community park should
be developed in 5-10 years. Funding for
Fossil Creek Community Park is
recommended to be financed through the
next Capital Improvement Program. The
new Community Park Fee will fund the
southwest and northeast community
parks.
The Policy Plan only makes
recommendations for the next 10 years
but has made some assumptions of needs
through the year 2015 based on the
estimated population and demands
outlined in CITY PLAN. The Plan
recommends that the City develop a new
multipurpose community center within
the next 5-10 years and renovate the
existing Northside Aztlan Community
Center. No other major changes are
recommended at this time in funding
strategies.
C. Goals and Policies
Goals and policies are essential to the
preparation and implementation of any
plan. They establish a direction for
development of the plan and provide a
basis for evaluating the progress of
implementation. Policies are not
requirements or directives that must be
followed in every circumstance. The
following list contains selected goals from
the adopted Community Vision and Goals
(April 1996), followed by policies that
directly relate to parks, recreation and
open lands.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-2
Goal 1.
Our community will have a balanced
system of open lands, natural areas,
recreation spaces and parks, including
trails and urban stree ts�s.
1.e.
Policies
1.a. The City shall maintain a ratio of
7 acres of developed parkland for
every 1,000 people in the city:
2.5 acres of neighborhood parkland
and 4.5 acres of community
parkland.
Lb. At a minimum, one neighborhood
park shall be provided in every
square mile section (or portion
thereof) of the city that is
predominantly residential and be
sized and developed according to
the population and fees which have
been generated in that area.
shall be dedicated to programmed
sports facilities, and in most cases
the area dedicated to programmed
sports should be less.
Community parks should be located
within or near areas that are, or are
expected to be, heavily populated.
1.£ Community parks should be located
adjacent to natural features, bodies
of water or historic sites.
1.g. The park system shall also include
special use facilities designed to
accommodate a particular type of
use. Examples may include a
community sports complex, regional
park; or community horticultural
center where the balance of uses
normally found in a community
park is not required and the focus of
the facility is developed for a
specific use or location.
1.c. Neighborhood parks will be located 1.h.
within walking distance (1/4 to 1/3
mile) of the neighborhoods they are
intended to serve and co -located
with schools where possible.
l.d. Parks shall provide for a variety of
experiences and be balanced to
accommodate active sports facilities
and provide an attractive setting for
walking, picnicking, gardens, sitting,
relaxing and other non -programmed
uses. No more than 40% of a park
The City shall provide community
centers and recreation facilities for
the citizens of Fort Collins including
groups with special needs.
11 The City will provide a balance
between adult and children, public
and private and specialized and
generalized needs for recreation
areas and facilities.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-3
1.j. The City will encourage
landscaping of parks and other
open lands with appropriate native
or drought resistant varieties of
vegetation along with attractively
developed "green" areas to provide
a balanced and pleasing cityscape.
LIL The City will consider enhancing
prominent connecting streets to
include circles, medians or other
special places to give identity and
calm traffic. Tree -lined streets and
boulevards with inviting,
landscaped walkways, parkways
and attractive medians designed
with drought tolerant materials and
grasses will be developed in the
community.
1.1. The City may utilize appropriate
opportunities to develop public
access along stream and irrigation
ditch corridors for providing
additional trail linkages throughout
the community.
1.m. Parks and natural areas will be
connected, where appropriate, by
pedestrian and bicycle trails,
easements, or by greenbelts such as
streams, drainageways and
irrigation ditches. The City will
strive to develop unpaved paths
parallel to the paved trails where
possible and appropriate.
1.n. The location, design and
construction of trails shall avoid or
minimize impacts to
environmentally sensitive areas and
be designed and constructed to
avoid sensitive natural features,
habitats and other areas that may be
impacted by trail construction or
recreational use.
1.o. Art in public places will continue to
be an expression of the creativity
and sense of artistic value of our
community.
Goal2.
Our community will have a compact laud
use pattern within a well defined
boundar+I.
Policies
2.a. Develop small neighborhood parks
and green spaces throughout the
city to provide both recreation and
nonrecreational open lands.
2.b. Utilize parks as an asset in the
redevelopment of downtown and
contiguous residential
neighborhoods.
2.c. There will be a pedestrian -oriented
neighborhood center — a school,
park, plaza, commercial area or
other neighborhood facility -- that
gives each neighborhood a unique
identity and a place for informal
social activity, recreation or public
gatherings.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Tian
2-4
2.d. The arrangement of land uses
within neighborhoods will allow
residents to walk and bicycle to
parks, schools, work,, shopping,
places of worship, transit stops and
other nearby neighborhoods.
2.e. Improve access from existing
neighborhoods to the City trail
system, where appropriate.
Coal3.
Important natural areas will be preserved
and protested.
Policies
3.a. Establish a system of publicly -owned
natural areas to protect the integrity
of critical conservation sites, protect
corridors between natural areas,
preserve outstanding examples of
Fort Collins' diverse natural heritage,
and provide a broad range of
opportunities for educational,
interpretive and recreational
programs to meet community needs.
3.b. Development will be integrated into
the natural landscape by directing
redevelopment away from sensitive
areas and by applying innovative
planning, design and management
practices when it occurs in close
proximity to sensitive natural areas
such as buffering and mitigation.
3.c. The City will administer a strong
program to acquire and manage
important natural areas that preserve
wildlife habitat and native
landscapes while providing
opportunities for education, scientific
research, nature interpretation, art,
fishing, relaxation, wildlife
observation, hiking and other
appropriate activities.
3.d. The City will continue to develop
effective partnerships with the
County, other governmental
organizations and the private sector
for the protection and preservation of
natural areas.
3.e. Develop and maintain a data
inventory on local natural areas to
aid the City and the public in
decisions about these areas and
management of publicly -owned
lands
3. f. Our community will actively protect,
manage, and enhance the Poudre
River, the foothills, natural stream
corridors and other waterways as
natural ecological systems, important
wildlife habitat, and accessible
recreational areas.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-5
Goar 4.
Development will pay its fair share of the
cost to provide needed public facilities and
services.
Policies
Goal 5.
Recreation fees should provide for an
equitable distribution of the costs of
recreational programs between program
users and general iatd tax dollars.
Policies
4.a. Annually evaluate the parkland
development fees for their adequacy See Recreation Fee Policy Appendix D
to achieve park needs.
5.a. Seek to recover 100 percent of direct
4.b. Increase fees as the cost of service and indirect costs from "for profit"
increases. users of Parks and Recreation
facilities.
4.c. Funds generated from the Parkland
Fees shall be spent as follows:
(1) acquisition and development of
neighborhood parks in those areas of
the city that are contributing to the
Parkland Funds. (2) Acquisition and
development of community parks
required to serve newly -developed
areas of the city.
4.d. In predominantly residential areas of
the city that are developed, the City
will strive to provide additional
parkland through redevelopment,
partnerships with the school district
or improving existing stormwater
facilities. Funding for these
improvements will be from parkland
fees collected in these areas or from
other sources.
Goal 6.
To derive the greatest value for its
investment in infrastructure, the City will
assure critical maintenance of existing
capital facilities, gradually remedy
deficiencies in existing facilities over time
and provide facilities to serve new growth.
Policies
6.a. The City will continue to fund
general operation and maintenance
of parks and recreation facilities
through the use of the General Fund.
The City will seek to recover costs
from users of facilities.
6.b. The City will annually analyze the
hard and soft costs of building and
operating new facilities and will
report to City Council any significant
changes from the initial cost
estimates proposed with the new
facilities.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-6
Goal Z
The plans and policies of the City, adjacent
municipalities, Colorado State University,
Poudre School District, Thompson School
District and Larimer County will be
closely coordinated
Policies
7.a. The City will create partnerships to
provide a balanced park system and
achieve common goals with public
entities such as Poudre School
District, Thompson School District,
Colorado State University, local and
regional governments and non-
profit organizations.
D. Parkland Standards
Parkland standards are a useful yardstick
for establishing tangible levels of service
standards and measuring a community's
progress in meeting those standards. In
effect, parkland standards are an
expression of the level of importance a
community places on parks.
Although no precise formula exists for
establishing parkland standards, several
factors should be considered including
the following:
• The existing amount of parkland
provided within the community and
how it is perceived by residents.
• The amount of parkland provided in
other communities.
• The amount of land required to
accommodate public demands for
different types of recreational uses.
1. Existing Level of Service
Although Fort Collins has previously
adopted a policy of providing 4 acres of
community parkland per 1,000
population and 2 acres of neighborhood
parkland per 1,000 population, the City
actually has either over or underachieved
the standard in many areas of the
community. On a citywide basis, the City
is providing approximately 3.1 acres of
community parkland per 1,000
population and 2.3 acres of neighborhood
parkland per 1,000 population, for a
combined total of 5A acres per 1,000
population.
The shortage in community parkland is
being felt by residents. Since Rolland
Moore Park was constructed in 1984,
there have been no new community parks
built, while the population has grown by
nearly 30,000 people. Because many
sports groups have expressed demand for
recreational facilities over the years, the
amount of programmed sports that can be
accommodated in community parks has
been maximized. Similarly, there is a
growing demand for unprogrammed
space and amenities for other leisure time
pursuits for the general community. This
has been identified as an issue by City
staff, the public and appointed and
elected officials. Clearly, the amount of
community parkland that the City is
currently providing is not meeting the
needs of the community.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-7
Neighborhood parks have also been
impacted by the demand for sports fields.
The City has been building larger
neighborhood parks than what would be
warranted by a 2 acre per
1,000 population standard in order to
accommodate programmed sports fields
and because city residents like big parks.
The four large neighborhood parks
constructed in the past ten years are large
enough to provide a level of service of
between 2.8 and 5.3 acres per 1,000
residents in the surrounding
neighborhoods
that they serve.
City residents
like these larger
parks; however,
they have
expressed
concern that the
parks are
dominated by
sports groups
and therefore
not often.
available during
sports seasons to
neighborhood residents during the
most popular leisure times — evenings
and weekends.
2. Standards and Level of Service
Provided by Other Communities
One indication of how well the City is
presently doing in providing parkland is
to compare Fort Collins to other Front
Range communities. Table 2.1 compares
nine communities that range in size from
12,000 population to 327,000 population.
In 1995, the average population of the
communities was 97,244, which is very
similar to Fort Collins.
Rolland Moore Park
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-8
Table 2.1
Comparative Level of Service and Parkland Standards
in Selected Front Range Communities
Castle Rock (pop.12,000)
Neighb.
1.3
Neighb.
2
Community
11
Comm.
-A
Total
5.5
Total
6
Loveland (pop. 42p00)
Neighb.
2.4
Neighb.
2
Comm.
U
Comm.
-5
Total
4.8
Total
7
Longmont (pop. 60rM)
Neighb.
2.1
Neighb.
2.5
Comm.
12
Comm.
4&
Total
4.0
Total
6.5
Thornton (pop. 60,000)
Neighb.
2.3
Neighb
na
Comm.
11
Comm.
.M
Total
3.8
Total
4
Greeley (pop. 64,092)
Neighb.
2.8
Neighb.
2
Comm.
3A
Comm.
_6
Total
5.9
Total
8
Westminster (pop. 83AM)
Neighb.
1.5
Neighb.
2.5
Comm.
2.2
Comm.
-M
Total
3.7
Total
10.0
Boulder (pop. 94,706)
Neighb.
2.5
Neighb.
1.5
Comm.
Comm.
Total
4.3
Total
3.0
Lakewood (pop.132,000)
Neighb.
2.3
Neighb.
3
Comm.
U
Comm.
5
Total
3.8
Total
8
Colorado Springs (pop.
Neighb.
2.3
Neighb.
2.5
327,000)
Comm.
2.3
Comm.
-M
Total
4.6
Total
7.5
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-9
Although some variation is shown on the
table, the majority of cities surveyed
provide between 1.5 and 3.1 acres of
community parkland per 1,000
population. All communities are behind
in achieving their standards for
community parkland, which typically
range from 4 to 6 acres per 1,000
population. The average amount of
community parkland provided is 2.3 acres
per 1, = population. In comparison, Fort
Collins is providing 3.1 acres of
community parkland per 1,000
population, which is among the highest
levels of service offered. Most of the
communities interviewed felt that they
were seriously lacking enough
community parks.
For neighborhood parks, the majority of
cities surveyed provide between 2.1 and
2.5 acres of neighborhood parkland per
1,000 population. Communities are much
closer to achieving their standards for
neighborhood parkland, which typically
range from 2 to 2.5 acres per 1,000
population. The average amount of
neighborhood parkland provided is 2.2
acres per 1,000 population. Similarly,
Fort Collins is providing 2.3 acres of
neighborhood parkland per 1,000
population.
3. Land Required to Accommodate
Community Needs
a. Community Parks
To ensure that parks are attractive to all
city residents, new initiatives should be
implemented to maintain a balance
between programmed sports facilities and
other community activity areas such as
gardens and water features; family and
community gathering places; areas for
free play, walking, fishing, kite -flying,
skateboarding, etc.; and other leisure time
activities. Based on analysis of parks that
have appeal to a broad user base, the
amount of area devoted to programmed
sports facilities in new community parks
should be limited to no more than 40% of
the total park area, including necessary
parking and support facilities such as
concessions. For comparison purposes,
Rolland Moore Park has approximately
40% of its area devoted to programmed
sports facilities, while City Park is only
19% programmed. Rolland Moore Park
was designed with an emphasis on
softball and other sports facilities at a time
when there was a shortage of these
facilities in the early 1980s.
Achieving a balanced park system also
requires that a design of a park does not
isolate the non -programmed area on the
perimeter and that adequate buffers
between programmed and non -
programmed areas are achieved. In
addition, management and programming
are essential. Managing a park for hours
of operation and the number of events
scheduled will enhance the park users'
experience.
The amount of new community parkland
needed in the next 10 to 15 years is a
combination of the amount needed to
serve existing residents (currently there is
a 92-acre deficit based on the existing 4
acres per 1,000 population standard) and
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-10
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
P1024 Parks and Recreation Policy Plan Update
City of Fort Collhis
The City of Fort Collins respectfully requests Proposals (including fees) for Professional Services to
assist staff with an update to the Parks and Recreation Policy Plan.
Written proposals, six (6) will be received at the City of Fort Collins' Purchasing Division, 215 North
Mason St., 2nd floor, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524. Proposals will be received before 3:00 p.m. (our
clock), July 11, 2006. Proposal No. P1024. If delivered, they are to be sent to 215 North Mason
Street, 2nd Floor, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524. If mailed, the address is P.O. Box 580, Fort Collins,
80522-0580.
A pre -proposal meeting for this project will be held at 10:00 a.m. June 27, 2006 in the
community Room located at 215 N. Mason in Fort Collins.
Questions regarding the scope of the project should be directed to the Manager of Park Planning and
Development, Craig L. Foreman at (970)-221-6618 or E-mail cforemana_fcgov.com.
Questions regarding proposals submittal or process should be directed to John Stephen, CPPO,
CPPB, Senior Buyer, (970) 221-6775 or E-mail istephen(aJ)fcgov.com.
A copy of the Proposal may be obtained as follows:
1. Download the Proposal/Bid from the BuySpeed Webpage,
https:Hsecure2.fcqov.com/bso/login.msp
2. Come by Purchasing at 215 North Mason St., 2nd floor, Fort Collins, and request a
copy of the Bid.
Sales Prohibited/Conflict of Interest: No officer, employee, or member of City Council, shall have a
financial interest in the sale to the City of any real or personal property, equipment, material, supplies
or services where such officer or employee exercises directly or indirectly any decision -making
authority concerning such sale or any supervisory authority over the services to be rendered. This
rule also applies to subcontracts with the City. Soliciting or accepting any gift, gratuity favor,
entertainment, kickback or any items of monetary value from any person who has or is seeking to do
business with the City of Fort Collins is prohibited.
Collusive or sham proposals: Any proposal deemed to be collusive or a sham proposal will be
rejected and reported to authorities as such. Your authorized signature of this proposal assures that
such proposal is genuine and is not a collusive or sham proposal.
The City of Fort Collins reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and to waive any
irregularities or informalities.
Sincerely,
James B. O'Neill II, CPPO, FNIGP
Director of Purchasing & Risk Management
215 North Mason Street • 2nd Floor • P.O. Box 580 • Fort Collins, CO 80522-0580 • (970) 221-6775 0 Fax (970) 221-6707 www.kaov.com
that which is needed to provide parks for
future residents (projected to be an
additional 35,000 people by the year
2005). Meeting these needs requires
developing Southwest and Fossil Creek
Community Parks. The City also needs to
begin planning for an additional 80 to
100-acre community park in the northeast
portion of the city.
Developing three new community parks
would result in a level of service for the
entire city of approximately 4.5 acres per
1,000 population, which is slightly higher
than the existing standard of 4 acres per
1,000 population, and substantially higher
than the 3.1 acres per 1,000 population
level of service that is currently being
provided. Increasing the standard is
necessary if the City desires to provide
balanced parks and a level of service for
sports facilities similar to current levels. A
higher community parkland standard will
also reduce the pressure to place
programmed sports fields for adult use in
neighborhood parks.
b. Neighborhood Parks
The facilities constructed recently in
neighborhood parks have been
influenced by the lack of community
parks. As mentioned earlier, comments
from the public suggest that many
residents of the city would like their
neighborhood parks to be less intensively
used by sports programs, especially in the
evenings and on the weekends, which is
when most neighborhood residents want
to use their parks. The neighbors would
like a more peaceful and solitary
experience, as well as the opportunity to
use the facilities for family or
neighborhood group functions. Based on
this, the City should evaluate
neighborhood parks, reduce the number
and intensity of programming of sports
fields in neighborhood parks, and
increase the amount of land area devoted
to other neighborhood uses. Timely
development of community parks would
help ensure that the need for sports fields
is still met.
The proximity of neighborhood parks to
residents should also be improved.
Current policy states that one park should
be located within each square mile of the
city, making the park a 1/2 mile or more
away from many homes, especially in
subdivisions with curving streets. As the
CITY PLAN goals state, neighborhood
parks should be located so that residents
can walk and bicycle to them (page 16,
Community Visions and Goals 2015,
4/2/96). This translates to a distance of
approximately 1/4 mile from each home.
This means that there should be more
smaller parks distributed throughout
residential areas.
Not all parks should be small, however.
There remains a need to accommodate
sports fields for youth practices and
games, as well as other facilities and
amenities that may be desired by the
neighborhood such as free -play areas,
basketball courts, tennis courts, water
features, restrooms, picnic shelters and
playgrounds. It is therefore
recommended that as a guideline and
where appropriate, one park within a
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-11
square mile shall be larger than the others
(approximately 8 acres) to accommodate
the larger space needs for these activities.
These parks should be located adjacent to
schools and drainageways where possible
to increase the overall park area and
enhance the park appearance.
Drainageways within parks should be
used to maintain or enhance the natural
elements of a park and protect
environmental values.
The 1- to 2-acre smaller parks will be
primarily turf areas with walking paths,
plazas, picnic tables, benches, gardens
and other features designed to provide
places for all ages to enjoy the outdoors.
They shall not be programmed for
organized sports. Because of the cost of
providing and maintaining restrooma,
these shall only be included in the larger
neighborhood parks described above.
Combined, all neighborhood parks in
each square mile (or portion thereof in the
case of incomplete sections) shall total
approximately 2.5 acres per 1,000
population. The proposed 2.5 acres per
1,000 population standard is higher than
the existing standard of 2 acres per 1,000
population, but less than the amount of
parkland that has actually been
developed in neighborhoods over the
past decade (between 2.8 and 5.3 acres
per 1,000 population). The neighborhood
parks that have been constructed recently
have been sized larger to respond to the
demand for sports facilities, since they
cannot be accommodated in existing
community parks. There have also been
opportunities to develop adjacent storm
water detention areas as additional
neighborhood parkland.
The 2.5 acres per 1A00 population is
based on the acres needed to build one
larger park (approximately 8 acres) as well
as provide several other small parks (1 to
2 acres) around the rest of the
neighborhood, for a total of 12 acres. A
typical one -square mile section in Fort
Collins currently has between 4,400 and
5,200 people. Twelve acres of parkland
divided by 4,800 people results in a 2.5
acres per 1,000 population standard.
4. Summary
The City of Fort Collins shall adopt
parkland standards of 2.5 acres per 1,000
population for neighborhood parks and
4.5 acres per 1,000 population for
community parks.
E. Classification Standards and -
Guidelines
Classification standards provide space,
site and program requirements and
guidelines for parks, open lands and
trails. Five classification categories are
proposed specifically for the City of Port
Collins:
• Neighborhood Parks
Community Parks
• Park Preserves
• Natural Areas
• Trails
Port CoMr s Pants and Recreation Policy Plan
2-12
The term "programmed sports facilities" is
referred to in the following text and other
places within this document. The
definition is as follows:
Programmed Sports Facilities — Single
or multiple fields, courts or other facilities
that are typically used for organized
group practices, games and/or
tournaments such as baseball, softball,
football, soccer and field hockey fields;
volleyball, tennis and
basketball courts;
recreation centers;
swimming pools;
horseshoe pits; and
skateboard parks.
1. Neighborhood Parks
The purpose of a
neighborhood park is to
provide a stage for
individual and group
recreational activities.
The park shall be a
common area for
neighbors of all ages to
gather, socialize and play
and to provide relief
from the urban
Level of Service Standard: The tota I
amount of neighborhood parkland shall
be based on a 2.5 acres per 1,000
population standard applied to the
anticipated build -out population in each
square mile of service area. The acreage
needed in areas smaller than one square
mile (incomplete sections) shall be
adjusted according to the anticipated
build -out population level and
distribution.
Neighborhood park playground
environment. They should be
centrally located and easily accessible,
preferably via a walkway system or trail
that minimizes the need to use
automobiles to get to the park.
Service Area: In
developing areas, and
where feasible and
desirable in existing
areas, neighborhood
parks shall be
distributed throughout
residential areas so that
they are no more than
1/4 to 1/3 mile away
from residents. The
maximum service area is
1/2 mile for any one
neighborhood park.
Size: A la rger pa rk s ha I I
be provided in full mile
sections (approximately
S acres, but sized
according to anticipated build -out
population) ro accommodate sports fields.
Where feasible and desirable, one or more
smaller 1- to 2-acre mini -neighborhood
parks shall be provided to allow better
access to parks for neighborhood
residents.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-13
Location: Where possible, neighborhood
parks shall be located adjacent to an
elementary or junior high school near the
center of a large residential
neighborhood, adjacent to detention
ponds or drainageways and/or adjacent to
a trail system. Co -location of these uses
creates a greater sense of spaciousness,
reduces the amount of land that must be
purchased for parkland, minimizes
duplication of facilities, and allows a
wider mix of public values to be achieved.
The savings in land acquisition costs may
then be applied to improvements on
these other properties. Local or collector
streets should be adjacent to at least two
sides of the park Residential
development should face the park with a
maximum of 50% of the park perimeter
sided by rear lot lines.
Typical Facilities: Neighborhood parks
should not have a standard design. The
parks will vary in size, topography and
vegetation; site designs shall take
advantage of these characteristics. A
mixture of facilities shall be provided that
are suited to the site and the social -
recreational preferences of surrounding
residents. Parking and restrooms may or
may not be desirable. Irrigated turf shall
be limited to high use areas such as
around playgrounds, group use areas and
playfields; where appropriate, naturalized
areas shall be integrated into the basic
design of neighborhood parks to provide
a natural experience and protect natural
resource values at a neighborhood scale.
Larger neighborhood parks shall not have
any more than 40% of their area devoted
to programmed sports facilities such as
soccer and baseball fields. The sports
fields in neighborhood parks shall be
designed to standards to serve as youth
(e.g. Youth Baseball) game fields and shall
not include lights. The smaller 1- to
2-acre parks will not be programmed for
sports. Management plans will be
developed for all neighborhood parks to
determine what additional facility
development (if any) they can
accommodate without compromising
their character and enjoyment by the
neighborhood.
The following is a partial list of facilities
that may be suitable for neighborhood
parks:
• Youth sports fields
• Volleyball, tennis, street hockey,
shuffleboard and basketball courts
• ChildreWs play area
• Unstructured play turf area
• Fitness course
• Gathering areas, amphitheaters and
plazas
• Picnic shelters, tables and benches
• Native vegetation areas
• Walks and bike paths
• Floral displays
• Water features
• Environmental, historical or cultural
interpretation
• Community gardens
• Restrooms
• Small off-street (<20 car) parking
areas
Fort Collins Parl® and Recreation Policy Plan
2-14
2. Community Parks
Community parks serve as the focal point
for community -wide activities and, as
such, are intended to provide either the
facilities or intensity of activities that
would be inappropriate for neighborhood
parks due to noise, lights or vehicular
traffic. Natural resource areas such as
water bodies, streams and wetland areas
should serve as focal points when
available, and views of the mountains or
other scenic areas should be optimized.
Irrigated turf
shall be limited
to only the high
use areas such as
sports fields,
open play areas
and
playgrounds,
and adjacent to
parking lots and
group picnic
areas;
naturalized
areas shall be
Plans will be used as a tool to review and
adjust existing park programming to
achieve the balanced park system policies
outlined in this plan.
Community parks are intended to serve
as larger neighborhood parks for the
immediately adjacent neighborhoods, but
they also serve larger overall community
needs.
Level of Service Standard: The total
amount of community parkland in the
City Park lake
integrated into
the basic design of each park in a
way that provides opportunities to enjoy
natural elements and protects natural
resource values. Management plans will
be developed for all existing and new
community parks to determine the
appropriate mix of facilities that can be
accommodated without compromising
their character and enjoyment by the
community as a whole. Management
city shall be
based on a
4.5 acres per
1,000 population
standard.
Service Area:
The service area
is approximately
four square
miles, however,
a community
park also serves
the needs of
people who live
throughout .he community. Community
parks shall be distributed throughout the
city so that most residents have a
community park within 1 to 1 y, miles of
their homes.
Size: The size may range from 40 to 120
acres depending upon the distribution of
population, availability of large park sites
and the need to accommodate recreation
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2- 15
facilities. optimum park size is 80 to 100 The following is a partial list of facilities
acres. The park size will increase if that may be suitable in a community park:
special facilities such as swimming pools
and recreation centers are included. • Facilities listed under Neighborhood
Parks
Location: The location of community • Regulation sports fields
parks is somewhat dependent upon the • Swimming pools
park size and level of programming • Special event areas
desired. • Ice skating areas
Where possible and desirable, the City
will locate community parks adjacent to
detention ponds, drainage areas, and
other open lands to take advantage of the
greater sense of spaciousness created by
adjacent public lands. Park design will
provide adequate buffer areas between
intensive use areas (e.g. ballfields) and
sensitive natural areas to ensure
protection of environmental values and
provide appropriate opportunity for
public enjoyment of natural features.
Special use facilities, such as a sports
complex, may be most appropriately
located in a commercial or industrial area
of the community to minimize impacts.
All community parks shall have good
access from an arterial or collector street.
Typical Facilities: Because of a larger,
more diverse user base, and ability to
accommodate more activities, community
Parks provide a wider variety of
recreational opportunities than
neighborhood parks. Community parks
shall have no more than 40% of their area
devoted to programmed sports facilities,
such as soccer and baseball fields, and
• Large free play areas with improved
turf
• Large group picnic areas and
gathering areas
• Performance plazas
• Water features/fountains
• Horticultural displays and community
gardens
• Environmental, historical or cultural
interpretation centers
• Multi -purpose recreation centers
• Skateboard facilities
3. Park Preserves
Park preserves are opportunities to
collaborate between the Park Planning
and Development Division, Natural
Resources Department, Larimer County
or other public agencies to protect natural,
cultural, or historic resources of
community -wide significance, while also
providing opportunities for nature -
oriented outdoor recreation. The
character of each park should be based on
the natural resources present with the
great majority of each site preserved or
restored to its natural condition. Small
turf areas may be provided in the highest
associated parking and other support use areas.
facilities. Some of these facilities will
typically include lights for night play.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-16
Level of Service Standard: None
Service Area: The entire community.
Size: Variable, depending on the resource
being preserved.
Location: Variable, depending on the
resource being preserved.
Typical Facilities: Types of uses may
include trail use, picnicking, fishing, non -
motorized boating, outdoor amphitheater
and classrooms,
historic and
environmental
interpretation,
and other
nature -oriented
activities. Park
preserves may
also include
recreation and
cultural facilities
if sufficient land
is acquired.
4. Natural
Areas
often intermingled or contiguous to
natural areas, such as occurs at Lee
Martinez Park For these reasons, this
plan also addresses natural areas,
highlighting those areas where the
interface between parks, recreational use
and natural areas is most direct.
The Natural Areas Policy Plan focuses the
City's efforts toward acquiring natural
areas. The Natural Areas Policy Plan
addresses the protection of important
wildlife habitats, rare plant communities
and other
natural
Poudre River
A strong relationship between parks and
natural areas has existed in Fort Collins
for many years. The current natural areas
program has evolved from earlier
purchases made by the Parks and
Recreation Department which resulted in
protection of properties such as Pineridge
and Riverbend Ponds natural areas.
Parklands also strongly contribute to
natural resource protection goals at many
locations within the community and are
resources and
provides
opportunities for
appropriate
public uses such
as hiking,
photography,
nature study
and other
appropriate
uses. To date,
implementation
of the Plan has
emphasized the acquisition of larger
parcels near the edge of the urban growth
area. Although these important efforts
should continue, additional emphasis will
be placed on neighborhood -scale open
lands and joint projects that combine
natural area protection with opportunities
for environmental education and
recreational use in a natural setting.
Perhaps the best description of
"neighborhood -scale" open lands can be
found in the Natural Areas Policy Plan
(pg. 3-3). "Natural'play areas' for
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-17
children are also important... The most
attractive natural play areas have been
found to be 5 minutes from a child's
home, and to have water (preferably with
frogs and crayfish), trees to climb and
secrecy (e.g. dense bushes and tall
grasses)" (pg. 3-3). Examples of joint
projects, which would involve the Park
Planning Division and the Natural
Resources Department, using joint
funding, were previously discussed under
"Park Preserves."
The City has three management
categories for natural areas as outlined in
the General Management Guidelines for
Natural Areas. The General Management
Guidelines address the management
considerations for all natural areas while
specific management plans determine
what type of public access and how the
site will be managed for people and the
environment.
Sensitive: Sites that have sensitive plant
or animal species or geologic features that
need special consideration when
developing a site management plan.
These include sites that support rare
plants, unique native plants communities,
concentrations of large raptors, rare
nesting birds, concentrations of migratory
bird species, and key areas for wintering
deer, as well as fragile rock outcrops or
other geological features that can be
impacted by high visitor use. This
designation carries with it the
understanding that the primary function
of management is the maintenance of
those sensitive species and features.
Urban: Sites that provide good wildlife
habitat but do not have any particular
sensitive plant or animal species or
geological features that need special
consideration when developing a site
management plan. These sites are usually
close to and surrounded by more
developed areas of Fort Collins or have
been more impacted by recreational,
agricultural, or other human land uses _
than sensitive natural areas. Sites are
often composed of greater amounts of
exotic plants than the sensitive areas.
These sites may be managed as multiple
use areas providing limited recreational
opportunities, but a priority will, be placed
on maintaining the natural character of
the site.
Restorative: Sites currently undergoing
restoration or sites that currently do not fit
w
into the above two categories, but are _
slated for restoration or enhancement in
the future so that they will fall into the
urban or sensitive category. Current
management category could be either
greenway or parkland. The restorative
category serves as an early planning tool
and way to inform adjacent landowners
of future intended site management (i.e.,
"natural area -- less maintenance than
"greenway" or "parkland"). This is a
temporary classification until the site is
upgraded to another classification upon
successful completion of restoration
activities.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2�18
5. Trails
Trails are off-street recreational systems
that provide an inviting, car -free
environment for bicycling, jogging,
walking, skating and equestrian use
where appropriate. They may also
accommodate some commuter bicyclists if
the route efficiently links to major
employment centers or popular
destinations. The trails may be paved or
non -paved, depending upon the users'
needs and desired recreational
experience. The
City shall be
responsible for
the maintenance
of only those
trails that are
part of the
community -
wide trail system
as shown on
Map 2.1. When
not located
within a
greenway or
larger open Syrin
space property, a minimum 50'
right-of-way shall be provided to allow
adequate room for the trail and some
natural environment adjacent to the trail.
All graded slopes shall be revegetated and
measures taken to control storm water
run-off, root invasion and erosion.
I
a. Paved Multi -Purpose Off -Street
Trails
Users: Walkers, joggers, recreational and
commuter bicyclists, skateboarders, roller
skaters and equestrians.
Location: Preferably near drainageways
or other linear features, connecting parks,
natural areas, recreation facilities and
major destination nodes. Trail system
design will avoid or minimize impacts to
environmentally sensitive areas and will
be in accordance
with natural
area and
park manage-
ment plans.
Trails may be
adjacent to
roadways for
short distances
or separated by
a minimum 12'
buffer for longer
distances.
g Creek Trail
Width: 10'
(50' right-of-way minimum).
Surface: Concrete, or an acceptable hard
surface.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-19
b. Non -Paved Multi -Purpose Trails
Users: Walkers, joggers, mountain bikers
and equestrians where appropriate.
Location: Preferably near drainageways
or other linear features. May be parallel
to but separated from paved trail system.
Placed to minimize or avoid impacts to
environmentally sensitive areas.
Width: Varies.
Surface: Compacted natural surface or
crushed gravel.
c. Trailheads
Users: Trail users, picnickers.
Location: In parks, natural areas or
adjacent to major roadways; maximum 1
mile apart. Good visual quality of the site
and safe access from adjacent roadways
should be major siting considerations.
Size: Variable, but kept to a minimum to
reduce impacts to natural resources.
Sized according to demand based on
anticipated trail usage.
Facilities: Parking for cars, bikes and
horse trailers (where appropriate),
drinking water, restrooms, picnic tables
and shade or shelter.
F. Park System Recommendations
1. Introduction
The City of Fort Collins has done an
admirable job in providing for the parks,
recreation and open lands needs of its
citizens. As identified in the 1991 and
1994 surveys, a significant majority of
people are satisfied with the number of
parks and the facilities that they contain.
They are also satisfied with the
maintenance of those facilities. The
Natural Areas Plan and Natural Areas
Sales Tax have begun to address the
community's increasing demand for
larger land conservation programs.
The surveys and public involvement
associated with development of this plan
did, however, point out some perceived
facility needs and changes that are
needed in the amount of unprogrammed
space that is provided in parks. These
facts and other information from the
survey of organized recreation groups,
and the parkland and facility needs
discussed in Chapter 4 were used to
develop a comprehensive list of
recommendations for parks, natural areas
and trails. Map 2.1 represents the Master
Plan.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-20
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
P1024 Parks and Recreation Policy Plan Update
GENERAL
The City of Fort Collins respectfully requests Proposals (including fees) for Professional
Services to assist staff with an update to the Parks and Recreation Policy Plan, to include
(but not limited) to the following major components:
A. Provide an evaluation of the existing *1996 Parks and Recreation Policy Plan.
"(Existing Policy Plan attached)
B. Provide an evaluation of the growth and/or decline of identified recreation
activities and an analysis of future recreation trends.
C. Provide an evaluation on how changing demographics will affect future
recreation needs.
D. Provide an evaluation of the need for a large event facility, its size, features and
locations.
E. Provide an evaluation of the need for a large sports complex.
F. Provide an evaluation about where and how many tennis courts should be
located in existing and planned neighborhood and community parks.
G. Provide information about current practices on recreation fees and revenue
generation and advice on which ones may be appropriate for Fort Collins.
H. Provide a review of our current and planned parks, trails, and recreation facilities
and advice on any changes that would help us to better serve the current and
future recreational needs of the community.
I. Develop, administer, tabulate and interpret a city survey to obtain information
about user satisfaction with our park and recreation facilities and programs,
recreation needs and information to help us provide for the recreational needs of
the community.
J. Cost estimate to assist staff in writing sections of the Plan, or to write the Plan.
K. Provide support to the City during the public process, Board and Commission
reviews and Council adoption.
II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The City of Fort Collins will be updating its 1996 Parks and Recreation Policy Plan in
2006/7. The update will set the vision, guidelines and standards for parks, trails, forestry,
and recreation for the next ten years. The Plan will include sections on recreation facilities
(parks, trails, recreation centers, etc.), future recreation trends, funding needs, short range
and long range action items, etc. The plan will have an extensive public process that will
include public outreach and City Board and Commission and City Council reviews.
III. PROJECT FUNDING AND ESTIMATED BUDGET
The City has a budget of $50,000 for this project.
2/9/00
The following sections present a detailed
discussion of recommended
improvements. These recommendations
are organized by type of facility, using the
following categories:
• Neighborhood Parks
• Community Parks
• Park Preserves
• Special Community Facilities
• Natural Areas
• Trails
• Miscellaneous Improvements and
Management Plans
In addition, a section at the end of this
chapter contains recommendations on
how the City should respond to the
demands for more recreational facilities.
2. Neighborhood Parks
Achieving the parkland standard of 2.5
acres per 1,000 population in newly
developing areas will require developing
approximately 110 acres of neighborhood
parkland by the year 2005. This is based
on the addition of 35,000 more people to
the city in this time frame. On the
surface, this need would largely be met by
developing the 97 acres of neighborhood
park sites that have already been acquired
but not developed. However, meeting
the actual need is complicated by the fact
that the distribution of the parkland is not
equal throughout the city. Some areas are
notably lacking in neighborhood parks,
while others have an overabundance. In
addition, many of the major growth areas
in the southern tier of the city would be
served by the development of sites that
have already been acquired; growth in
the northeast sector of the city and in
some areas near the edge of the Urban
Growth Area will require the acquisition
of additional park sites.
Historically, neighborhood parks have
been located one per square mile and
average between 8 to 20 acres in size.
Mini -parks (those less than 2 acres) were
discouraged to limit maintenance costs.
This plan recommends that neighborhood
parks be acquired and developed
according to the standard of 2.5 acres per
1,000 population in the area they serve.
Budgets for acquisition and construction
should approximate the amount of
parkland fees collected from the service
area. Locational criteria should be
modified, as stated earlier, to allow for
development of several smaller parks
(mini -parks) per square mile to make
them more accessible to the
neighborhoods they serve.
In older areas of the city, or in existing
county subdivisions that are anticipated
to eventually annex into the city, there
may not be sufficient parkland
development fees generated to totally
fund the neighborhood park In these
areas, alternate funding methods should
be defined.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2.21
The following projects are shown on Map
d. Pursue expansion of Eastside Park
2.1. Prioritization of these projects is
Current neighborhood parkland (4.7
addressed in Chapter 5 - Implementation.
acres) falls short of the 11.7 acres
targeted for the population in that
a. Acquire and develop neighborhood
area.
parks in new areas of the city
—
including providing several smaller
3. Community Parks
parks instead of one large park Nine
new areas are conceptually shown on
The City currently owns two
the Master Plan including three in the
undeveloped community park sites. Both
northeast, one in the west and five in
_
need to be developed soon to fulfill
the southern portion of the city.
existing demands and respond to
anticipated growth in the city. The
b. Develop existing neighborhood park
following projects are shown on the
sites when the area is at least 50%
Master Plan, Map 2.1. Prioritization of _
developed. This will provide for an
these projects is addressed in Chapter 5 -
adequate public participation process
Implementation.
during design and collection of some
—
neighborhood parkland fees for the
a. Develop the 99.5-acre Fossil Creek
park's development. Where feasible
Community Park site.
and desirable, adjust the park size and
developments to match the land
b. Develop the 103-acre Southwest
needed to serve the neighborhood at
Community Park site.
2.5 acres per LOW population. There
are presently eight neighborhood park
c. Acquire and develop an 80- to 100- —
sites that are owned by the City but
acre park in the northeast quadrant of
not yet developed.
the city near Vine Drive and Cooper _
Slough. The park site is conceptually
c. Pursue joint agreement with the City
shown on the Master Plan. Because
Stormwater Department and the
of its relatively large size (80 to 100 —
Poudre School District to develop
acres) and the desire to locate the
neighborhood amenities at Boltz
park at an exceptional site that
Junior High School. Current
incorporates natural or scenic
neighborhood parkland (1.4 acres)
features, the site must be targeted for
falls short of the 13.3 acres targeted for
acquisition well in advance of "
the population in that area.
development or the opportunity to
acquire it may be lost.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-22
4. Park Preserves
Three park preserve projects are indicated
on the Master Plan. These areas have
special qualities that should be conserved
and made available for enjoyment by the
public. The following projects are shown
on the Master Plan, Map 2.1.
Prioritization of these projects is
addressed in Chapter 5 - Implementation.
a. Fossil Creek Reservoir Regional Park
The 1988 Parks and Recreation Master
Plan, the
1992 Larimer
County Parks
Master Plan,
and this plan
identify
Fossil Creek
Reservoir as
a regional
park.
Developing
this property
provides an
opportunity Str
to collaborate
between the City's Park Planning
and Development Division, Natural
Resources Department, Larimer
County, and the Colorado Division of
Wildlife to protect natural resources of
community -wide significance while
also providing opportunities for
nature -oriented outdoor recreation.
'I ype� of use, could include trail use,
picnicking, fi3hing, non -motorized
boating, outcoor amphitheater and
classrooms, and other nature -oriented
activities. The exact character of this park
has not been defined but could also
include regional recreation and cultural
facilities if sufficient land is acquired.
b. Strauss Cabin Park. The Strauss
Cabin is one of the most significant
historic resources in the Fort Collins
Q
Uss c.
area. "1'h- cabin site is adjacent to the
Poudre River
w
and i,, owned
and managed by
Larimer County.
A large natural
area ,outh of the
cabin was
recently
purchased by
the Citv. The
Citv should
acquire
additional land
abin (estimated 30
acres) adjacent
to these properties and develop picnic
areas and tre.ils with historic and
environmental interpretation so that the
community, -an enjoy the resources that
are present. The majority of this site
would be pr--served or restored to a
natural concition. Small turf areas and a
play/recreation area may be provided in
the highest use areas.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Police Plan
2-23
c. Gateway Park The City, Larimer
b. Multi -Purpose Recreation Centers.
County and several other groups have
The City of Fort Collins is below the
been studying the feasibility of
average level of service offered by
developing a public park at the old
similar communities in the Front
Water Treatment Plant #1 near the
Range for multi -purpose recreation
mouth of the Poudre Canyon. The site
_
centers. In 1994, 44% of the people
is 440 acres and is envisioned to be
surveyed who had an opinion
primarily a natural park with trails,
thought that the City did not have
picnic areas and
enough drop -in facilities for youth,
environmental/historic educational
53% thought there were not enough _
opportunities. Development of the
gymnasiums and 54% thought there
park is expected to be a collaborative
were not enough workout exercise
process between many agencies.
facilities. Space for dance, fitness and
other general interest classes is also
5. Special Community Facilities
insufficient. It is recommended that ,
the City provide at least one
The City has identified needs for three
additional full -service
types of facilities that warrant special
recreation/community center with an
mentioning: swimming pools, multi-
indoor and outdoor pool,
purpose recreation centers
gymnasiums and youth center
and a horticultural center. A youth center
features in the near future. The
is a specific type of recreation center that
Northside Aztlan Community Center
is discussed under b. below.
should also be replaced with a larger
multi -purpose facility in the northern
a. Swimming Pools. The City's
portion of the city. -
swimming pools are some of the most
popular facilities for residents as
c. Community Horticulture Center. A _
evidenced by participation numbers
local non-profit organization,
and the estimated 28,000 residents
Community Horticulture Center,
who use the pools. In 1994 a survey
Inc., has been working with the City -
was conducted. Of those people who
to make a community horticulture
had an opinion (those who didn't
center a reality. The facility is -
checked the "No Opinion" box), 48%
envisioned to include a
thought the City did not have enough
greenhouse/conservatory on a site of
outdoor swimming pools. In total, an
at least ten acres that will offer -
indoor pool and at least one additional
opportunities for relaxation,
outdoor pool should be constructed
inspiration and education about -
within the next ten years. Pools may
plants and environmental
be constructed as part of a Multi-
approaches to horticulture.
purpose Recreation Center, discussed
Volunteers will play a major role in
below.
the construction and operation of the
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-24
facility. The City should explore a
public/private partnership to
develop the facility.
6. Natural Areas
b. Pursue conservation of natural areas,
agricultural lands, and lands along
the foothills and other remaining
open lands between Fort Collins and
Loveland, giving priority to the
foothills and lands surrounding
The City's Natural Areas and Open Lands
programs have received tremendous
support from the community. The C.
framework for the majority of the open
lands areas was established in the 1988
Parks and Recreation Master Plan, the
1992 Natural Areas Policy Plan and the
1995 plan for the region between Fort
Collins and Loveland and the City Plan in
progress. Additional emphasis should be
placed on implementing the Fossil Creek
Regional Open Land program and on
continuing efforts to protect the foothills
and the remaining open lands between
Fort Collins and Loveland as indicated on
the Master Plan map.
Together the Natural Areas Policy Plan
and the Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
should continue to support the
acquisition of natural areas for the
community and should provide for public
access, including trails and parking for
areas open for public use, where
appropriate.
a. Continue protection, through
acquisition, easements or other
methods of protection for lands along
major drainages (Poudre River,
Boxelder and Fossil Creeks, and
Cooper Slough).
7.
Fossil Creek Reservoir.
Pursue opportunities to provide
neighborhood -scale natural areas.
Pursue opportunities for
conservation of buffer areas,
gateways, and community separators
as shown in the Structure Plan and
the Northern Colorado Regional
Plan.
Trails
The City's trail system is enormously
popular. The great popularity of the trail
system has raised a number of issues,
some of which are noted below:
Opportunities for leisure walking
and solitude are increasingly limited.
In some areas, spur trails or
additional trails should be created for
the exclusive use of walkers.
In a few areas of the community,
access to the City trail system is
difficult, requiring the crossing of
major streets or lengthy travel to get
to a trailhead. Now that much of the
basic trail network has been
established, greater emphasis should
be placed on improving accessibility
from existing neighborhoods and
parks.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-25
• Although many people prefer a trail
located close to a river or a stream,
recreational trail use can adversely
affect wildlife and other natural
resources. The need to carefully locate
trails and manage their use is very
important.
Renovations and replacement of
existing trails should be evaluated for
their environmental sensitivity.
Where environmental concerns or
resource conflicts are identified, trails
should be relocated to less sensitive
areas.
The framework for the majority of the
trails was established in the 1988 Parks
and Recreation Master Plan. Remaining
needs focus on completing the Poudre
River and Spring Creek Trail systems by
closing the remaining gaps and extending
them through the Urban Growth Area
(UGA). New emphasis should be placed
on implementing the Fossil Creek Trail
system. Additional needs center on
improving access to the primary trail
corridors and enhancing the quality of
these areas through restoration efforts.
a. Extend the Poudre Trail to the east
and west to the edges of the UGA.
b. Complete the Spring Creek Trail.
c. Develop the Fossil Creek Trail
system.
d. Extend the regional trail to connect
to Laporte, Loveland, Wellington,
Windsor and Larimer County trails.
e. Improve linkages between
neighborhoods and the primary trail
network throughout the city, using
irrigation ditches/canals and
drainageways where possible. Trail
location and design will avoid or
minimize impacts to
environmentally sensitive areas.
S. Miscellaneous Improvements and
Management Plans
City staff has identified various upgrades,
renovations, and replacements that are
needed at existing facilities. The types of
improvements range from adding
parking lots to renovating and expanding
pools and recreation centers. In most
cases, implementation of these
improvements shall be preceded by the
development of management plans for
the parks they affect to ensure that the
new facilities fit within the long-term
vision for the park Feasibility studies
should be conducted to determine if
expansion of existing recreational
facilities, such as the senior center, is
possible. Specific projects are listed in
Chapter 5 - Implementation.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-26
9. Responding to the Demand for
Recreation Facilities
Historically, the Park Planning and
Development, Recreation, and
Maintenance divisions have been in a
reactionary position in determining how
many ballfields, soccer fields etc. to
provide. The following are
recommended actions:
Provide baseball, softball, football and
soccer fields that can be
accommodated within planned
community and neighborhood parks
in a balanced manner as described
previously. The amount of
programmed area and types of
facilities that are contained in each
parks management plan should not
be exceeded. The parkland acreage
standards allow for a level of service
for sports fields that is similar to what
is currently provided.
The City's role in specialized sports
complexes and facilities is to provide
for services at the 1996 level of service.
Partnerships should be explored with
private organizations to meet
extraordinary demands such as has
been expressed for soccer, baseball,
softball and ice skating.
• Work with Poudre School District to
maximize public use of their facilities
including gymnasiums and athletic
fields. This may include renovation or
redevelopment and joint maintenance
agreements.
Recreational leagues should receive
priority for programming over
competitive level activities. The
number of weekend tournaments
should be reduced to allow for local
use of all facilities.
Adult activities currently scheduled
in neighborhood parks should be
moved to community parks as new
community parks are developed.
Address additional needs for facilities
to accommodate special uses such as
community dog run areas, criterium
courses for in -line skating, bicyclists,
runners, in -line hockey rinks, and
other emerging needs. Demands for
these and other facilities will be
monitored by the City, and
recommendations will be developed
to address these special needs. The
intent of this plan is to have the
flexibility to accommodate a variety
of uses as additional park areas are
developed.
Specific decisions on where and how to
accommodate these uses will be made as
plans for new parks are developed, with
the ultimate decision depending on
available funding and the ability of the
park site to accommodate a particular
range of uses.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
2-27
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T COLLINS PARKS & RECREATION POLICY PL
Master Plan
Map 2.1
Trails Community Facilities Neighborhood Facilities
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C COLLINS PARKS & RECREATION POLICY PL.
Master Plan
Map 2.1
Trails Community Facilities Neighborhood Facilities
Chapter Three
Existing Resources
IV. SCOPE OF WORK
The consultant is being hired to provide input into certain areas of the plan and support for
staff during the public and City review process. The detailed description of the Scope of
Work for the Consultant is as follows:
A. The Consultant will evaluate the City's current Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
to gain an impression of how the Plan is doing in providing guidance for the
City's parks and recreation facilities and programs. We believe the current plan
has served us well, but would like the Consultant to provide an expert outside.
perspective and advice on ways to improve the plan.
B. Provide an evaluation of growth and/or decline in youth and adult tennis, adult
soft ball, youth and adult soccer, skateboarding, youth in -line skating and in -line
hockey, and dog parks or any other activities not listed here that show a
significant growth or decline in our region. The past time frame would be ten
years and the projected time frame should be for ten years. The information may
include national trends but must also be tailored and relevant to Colorado and
Fort Collins. Provide an evaluation of anticipated popularity of these sports and
activities and other recreation trends, including an assessment of the recreation
facilities (e.g. number of tennis courts,) needed to meet the anticipated demand.
The information will be finalized by the Consultant into a format that can be
added as an appendix into the Plan.
C. Provide an evaluation of Fort Collins' demographics and anticipated
demographic changes over the next ten years and its relevance to the
community's recreational needs for the next ten years. Data from various
sources should provide information about such items as what retirees will be
doing for recreation, what young adults will be doing for recreation, etc. The
information will be finalized by the Consultant into a format that can be added as
an appendix into the Plan.
D. The Consultant will provide recommendations and advice about the process to
use for public input to improve the City's current process. The Consultant will
provide the following support to the City during the Plan process.
Public meetings — The Plan outreach is anticipated to include four public
meetings with an open house format. The Consultant will assist staff with the
development of the format of the meetings, provide information on their Scope
of Work items for review by the public, and attend all meetings. The Consultant
will attend an additional eight meetings with City staff.
Parks and Recreation Board — three meetings
Senior Advisory Board — one meeting
Youth Advisory Board — one meeting
Natural Resource Advisory Board — two meetings
Transportation Board — one meeting
Stormwater Board — one meeting
Planning and Zoning Board — one meeting
Council Work Session — one meeting
907 11
Chapter Three Existing Resources
A. Introduction
An inventory of existing recreation
resources in the Fort Collins area was
conducted to establish a framework for
development of the master plan. The
Citv's parks, recreation facilities, trails
system, open space, natural areas, golf
courses and other properties were
inventoried and their existing conditions
noted.
Facilities
provided by
other
jurisdictions
including the
Poudre School
District and
federal, state
and county
governments
were also
inventoried. Neighh)
Specific private recreation
facilities were not identified, as the City
has limited involvement with them and,
for the most part, are considered
supplemental to basic services that the
City traditionally provides.
rhood vo
The remainder of the chapter describes
the inventory of existing facilities. Before
doing so, it is appropriate to briefly
describe the history of parks and
recreational services and organization of
the Parks and Recreation functions of the
City's CulL.ral, Library and Recreational
Services (CLRS) area.
1. History,)f Parks and Recreation
Services
The history of the parks and recreation
syslt,m in Fort Collins dates back to the
earl- 1870s when the residents of the
town set aside
Washington
Park and
Lincoln Park,
the current sites
of City Hall, the
Police Station
and the Library
and Museum.
Both parks have
changed
significantly
over the last
nevhall �amc century but still
prop idP passive "green space" For area
residents an-] the community to enjoy in
this rapidly -growing community. A the
town continued to grow in the 19OIk,
residents felr it was important to preserve
large open L nds for the community. Citv
Park was established in 1907 as the first
community park, providing large
meadows for picnics around Sheldon
bake and areas for ballfields and the
fairgrounds.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policv Plan
3-1
By 1906, a Parlp Commission had been
established to improve the municipal
parks. Prior to this time, the City Council
managed and administered the parks.
From 1906 until 1956, only one small park
was acquired and developed in front of
the old Fort Collins High School. During
this era, most of the focus was on
developing and improving City Park,
including the outdoor swimming pool
and community center.
In 1949, the Fort Collins Recreation
Commission was established to further
recreational activities and facilities in the
community. In 1955, the fast Parks and
Recreation Director was hired to
administer parks and recreation programs
with the Parks and Recreation
Commissions. In the early 1960s several
neighborhood parks were acquired and
developed, including Indian Hills, Avery,
Buckingham, Spring and Old Fort Collins
Heritage parks. The formation of a
separate department for Parks and
Recreation occurred in 1966 when the two
previous commissions were merged into a
consolidated department.
The new department was administered
by H.R. Phillips and a new volunteer
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board was
appointed by City Council. The new
Parks and Recreation Department
increased the number of full-time
employees from two to nine, and part-
time employees from 160 to 196 in the
period between 1956 and 1971. The
budget for the department more than
doubled from $53,000 to $120,000. The
administration of the department had
moved from volunteer workers to salaried ^'
employees, and with this change, the park
system was more professionally managed.
In 1963, a prominent landscape architect
from Denver, S.R. DeBoer, was hired to
formulate the first Parks and Recreaflon
Elm The Plan explained the role of parks ^
and recreation in the city and offered
many suggestions for new parks and
recreation facilities in Fort Collins. A
similar comprehensive study was
completed in April 1973, by William
Dwain Miller, Planning Parks for Urban
Growth: Fort Collins A Case Study.
Together these two plans provided
valuable information on recreational
preferences and needs as well as analysis
and research on the physical environment
in our community.
The foundation for the current parks and _
recreation system is based on these
previous studies and on the efforts of
several organizations that supported the
preservation of open space and parks in
the mid-1970s. The Poudre Greenbelt
Association and the Environmental Task
Force of Designing Tomorrow Today
were instrumental in advocating the
preservation of open lands and in the
development of trails and parks in the 70s
and early 80s. In 1974, the Open Space
Plan was adopted as an element of the
City of Fort Collins Comprehensive Plan.
Several open space areas were acquired in
the late 1970s including Maxwell,
Pineridge and Riverbend Ponds.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-2
Most of our park and recreation system
has been developed in the last 25 years.
In the early 1970s, the City acquired and
developed over 11 parks, and in the last
15 years the City has added an additional
10 parks. Three community parks were
developed: Edora (1971), Lee Martinez
(1976) and Rolland Moore in 1984.
Several recreational facilities were also
constructed during this time including the
Mulberry Pool, Northside Aztlan
Community Center, The Farm at Lee
Martinez Park, Edora Pool Ice Center and
the new Senior Center, which opened in
1995. Most of the trail system, which
includes the Poudre River, Spring Creek
and Foothills trails, was built in the last
ten years.
The City's first adopted Parks and
Recreation Master Plan was approved by
City Council in February 1988, and
established the goals and policies for
parks and recreation for the community.
The goals and objectives of this plan are
based on several previously -adopted
elements of the City Comprehensive Plan
including the Open Space Plan (March
1974), the Goals and Objectives (August
1977), Land Use Policies Plan (August
1979), Eastside Neighborhood Plan
(March 1986).
By 1988, the City had 33 parks, four of
which were developed community parks.
The community parks totaled 308 acres.
The remaining 28 neighborhood and
mini -parks totaled 237.37 acres. The
combined acreage in 1988 was 545.37 and
the population estimate was 85,000,
yielding 6A acres of parkland per 1,000
residents.
The City now has 43 parks, including two
undeveloped community parks, and more
than 21 miles of trails. The combined
acreage for all parks, including the
undeveloped land, is more than 836 acres.
Today the Parks and Recreation
Department employs 105 full-time
workers and averages 1,500 part-time,
seasonal, hourly or contractual workers
annually to manage and administer the
parks, recreation, natural areas and trail
system. The City has also expanded the
natural areas program to more than 4,000
acres.
Funding for the majority of these parks
and facilities began in 1968 when the
neighborhood parkland fee was
established at $40 per new dwelling unit.
Today there is a revised neighborhood
parkland fee as well as a parkland fee.
Both fees vary depending on the size of
the dwelling unit. The neighborhood
parkland fee ranges from $495 for a 700
square foot dwelling to $1,191 for a
dwelling containing morethan 2,201
square feet. The community parkland fee
ranges from $540 for a 700 square foot
dwelling to $1,308 for a dwelling unit
containing more than 2,201 square feet.
Trails and natural areas are currently
funded through the Conservation Trust
Fund and the Natural Areas Sales Tax
programs.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-3
CLRS Administration — This area
provides executive direction, supervision,
management and coordination of the
Parks and Recreation divisions, as well as
for the library and cultural functions.
Within the divisions of Parks and
Recreation, there are 78 permanent
employees and over 1,500 seasonal, part-
time, temporary and contractual
employees. It is responsible for the
evaluation of all service area operations,
preparation and administration of the
service.area budget, management of
capital projects, and the administration of
all services, programs and facilities.
Administration coordinates with other
City departments, City management,
other public and private organizations,
and the general public in the formulation
of policies and procedures for recreation
activities and park development. In
addition, Administration provides direct
staff support for the Parks and Recreation
Board, a 9-member City Council -
appointed citizen board that advises
Council on all matters regarding Parks
and Recreation, with the exception of golf
and cemeteries.
Park Planning and Development
Division — This division is responsible for
evaluating, acquiring, planning and
developing various types of properties
including parks, trail rights -of -way and
natural areas. The Planning and
Development Division prepares the
department's long-range acquisition plans
and is also responsible for coordinating
development of specific parks including
preparation of park master plans and
administering construction activities. The
Division also reviews development plans
by the private sector for commercial and
residential development to assure that
Parks and Recreation needs are
addressed.
Recreation Division — The Recreation
Division maintains nine municipal
recreation facilities and provides
instruction, drop -in activities and league
activities for all ages in swimming, sports,
arts and crafts, dance, general interests,
fitness and ice skating. The Division also
facilitates specialized programming for
older adults, developmentally disabled
and youths. Another major Division
responsibility is coordination with
numerous groups including civic groups,
the private sector, Poudre School District,
and numerous sports and recreational
organizations for use of public facilities.
The Division also coordinates and
develops short and long-range plans for
recreation in the city.
Golf Division — This Division is
responsible for operation and
maintenance of City Park Nine,
SouthRidge and Collindale golf courses.
All City Park Nine, SouthRidge and
Collindale revenues are applied to the
Golf Fund which is administered by the
Division. The Golf Fund is an Enterprise
Fund, which means 100% of all Golf
Division expenditures are paid by golf
revenues. The Division is advised on
most golf matters by the Golf Board, a 7-
member City Council appointed board.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
34
Parks Maintenance Division — The Parks
Maintenance Division is responsible for
operation and maintenance of the City's
public parks, medians, streetscapes, trails,
natural areas, cemeteries, and the
grounds adjacent to public buildings. The
Division also provides maintenance
support for other divisions and
departments within the city and several
agencies outside the city. The Cemeteries
(Memorial Gardens) section directs,
supervises, coordinates and maintains the
activities, buildings, grounds and records
of Grandview and Roselawn cemeteries.
Natural Resources Department— The
Natural Resources Department is in the
Community Planning and Environmental
Service (CPES) area of the city and has the
lead role in implementing the Natural
Areas Policy Plan. They also have the
lead role in other open lands conservation
programs and are responsible for
identifying and maintaining the
inventory of sensitive natural areas in the
community and acquiring or protecting
those lands. The Natural Resources
Department also provides environmental
input into the design and management of
trails, trailhead parking areas, parks and
other open lands. Members of the
Natural Areas staff serve on an
interdepartmental team which is
responsible for developing management
plans for all natural areas.
Forestry Division — The Forestry Division
is responsible for management of the
City's urban forest resource. One of the
Division's major objectives is a planting
program that ensures the future existence
of the City's trees by the annual planting
of as many or more trees than must be
removed due to death or hazardous
conditions. In addition, a major objective
is to provide a rotational pruning,
maintenance and removal program. The
Division also provides technical assistance
and support to the public and staff
relative to trees and landscaping and
serves as an information resource in this
area.
B. Municipal Parks and
Recreation Resources
1. Introduction
Parks and Recreation services extend well
beyond the city limits of Fort Collins.
Larimer County and Poudre School
District residents outside the city limits, as
well as visitors to the area, regularly
benefit from the use of recreational
facilities, parks, trails and golf courses that
the City provides. These facilities and
services have, in the most part, been built
and sponsored by City of Fort Collins tax
dollars and fees. Larimer County has
contributed over $225,000 to the City
through the Intergovernmental
Agreement to develop parks within the
Urban Growth Boundary that also meets
the needs of Larimer County residents.
The City of Fort Collins Parks and
Recreation system is comprised of 42
parks (10 are presently undeveloped),
24.4 miles of paved recreational trails,
over 45 natural areas, 4 recreation
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-5
facilities and 45 holes of golf. Map 3.1,
Existing Conditions, shows the location of
these facilities.
A service radius for each municipal park
is shown on Map 3.1. Community parks
have a service radius of one mile,
neighborhood parks 1/2 mile, and mini -
parks 1/4 mile. These service area
guidelines are consistent with the City's
policy of providing neighborhood and
mini -parks within walking distance of
residential areas where possible, and a
community park within each four or five
square mile area of the city. Community
parks also serve as neighborhood parks
for nearby residents.
A comparison of these service area
guidelines to existing residential areas
shows that a majority of city residents
have at least one neighborhood park
within W mile of their homes. There is,
however, one area within the existing
developed area of the city that is not
being served in accordance with these
guidelines. This area is generally
bounded by Drake Road on the north,
Timberline Road on the east, Horsetooth
Road on the south, and College Avenue
on the west.
Proximity to community parks is less
consistent. Large areas in the southern
portion of the city are located more than a
mile from a community park This
shortage will be partly offset when Fossil
Creek Community Park is developed, but
several existing and planned residential
areas south of Drake Road will remain
slightly more than a mile from a
community park
The City owns natural areas, managed by
the Parks Division, that total more than
3,900 acres. These sites are also shown on
Map 3.1. As shown on this map, the City
has acquired significant areas along the
foothills that preserve the. city's scenic
views to the west. These areas are used
for walking, hiking and other nature -
oriented activities. Significant natural
area parcels have also been acquired
along the Poudre River and Spring Creek;
a majority of these areas are linked via the
Poudre River Trail and Spring Creek Trail,
respectively.
Augmenting the City's open lands system
are several City -owned properties
including the Resource Recovery Farm
(340 acres) and Grandview and Roselawn
cemeteries. City -owned and operated
golf courses (Collindale, SouthRidge, City
Park Nine) also. contribute. Other
properties that augment the City's open
lands network are the CSU
Environmental Learning Center (now
more than 200 acres) located on the
Poudre River, and the CSU Foothills
Campus. The Foothills Campus totals
1,695 acres, much of which is designated
as open space in the Campus Master Plan.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-6
2. Inventory of City Facilities and
Resources
a. Parks
A detailed inventory of the City's parks
and recreational system is shown in
Table 3.1, Fort Collins Parks: Inventory.
This table lists the number and types of
various facilities within each park along
with acreage, development status and
other comments. The City's 32 developed
parks include 4 community parks,16 large
neighborhood parks and 12 mini -
neighborhood parks for a total of
approximately 536 acres. The four
developed community parks --- City,
Edora, Lee Martinez and Rolland
Moore — total 308 acres. The 16 larger
neighborhood parks total 210.5 acres.
Mini -neighborhood parks account for the
remaining 17 acres.
Ten park sites are undeveloped. Eight of
the 10 undeveloped sites are
neighborhood parks (total 93 acres)
scheduled for development in the future.
Fossil Creek Park and Southwest
Community Park, undeveloped
community parks, are 99.5 and 103 acres
in size, respectively. X new community
parkland fee will fund a portion of one
park and all of the second starting July
1996. A specific schedule for
development of these community parks is
outlined in Chapter 5. Conceptual master
plans have been prepared for both parks.
As noted earlier, Table 3.1 shows the
distribution of specific facilities within
each park The City currently has
10 lighted and 10 unlighted softball/
baseball fields. All lighted softball fields
are located in community parks. Two
lighted and all unlighted fields are used
for youth baseball games.
Soccer/football fields are located in both
neighborhood parks and community
parks. The number of fields within a park
can vary depending on the actual size of
the fields (junior or regulation). The
largest concentration of soccer/football
fields occurs at City Park with 8 mini and
junior size fields, Rolland Moore Park has
3, Edora Park has 5. Beattie, Greenbriar,
Overland, Troutman and Warren parks
(which are neighborhood parks) each
have two full-size fields. Many other
neighborhood parks also have soccer
fields of various numbers and sizes. City
Park and Edora Park have adequate
design and parking capacity to
accommodate soccer team play. The
fields located in Rolland Moore Park and
several neighborhood parks, however, do
not have adequate parking areas resulting
in traffic congestion problems during
programmed use of the facilities.
The park system includes a total of 41
tennis courts located at 12 individual
Parks. Twenty-five of these courts are
lighted. Lighted courts are usually
located in community parks, the only
exception is Warren Park The old Fort
Collins High School has 4 lighted courts
which are programmed by the City. The
lighting and court surfaces need
upgrading at the high school due to age
and resulting inefficiency.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-7
FORT COLLINS PARKS: INVENTORY
TABLE 3.1
V
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UU1�MI71111 l 31 PAl3
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City Park
95.19
2L
6 junior
31,
Lake
•
•
•
•
Fitness stations; barsahoa; Pool; boats;
2 mini
naaatian omterg shelkr pottery studio
Elora Pads
65.41
2L
5 mini
6L
Spr Crk
•
Is
•
•
Fitness statiorm; EPIC; trails; ligbfed
horseshoes; disk golf
Fossil Creek Park
99.50
Lee Martina Park
89.56
21,
4L
3L
Poudre
•
•
•
•
Shelter trail; fit ones . femt
Rolland Moore Park
69.00
41,
1 fild
8L
4
5NL
Pond
•
•
•
•
Platform tennis; trails; shelter.; BMX;
2 iuoior
raaaue"ll: •lavgound
Avery raft
17.9-3
1
1 1 junior
INL
Pond
•
•
•
Beattie Park
10.00
1
2NL
1 2 junior
2NL
INL
•
•
•
Combination wbooYpiuk
Blevins Park
7.25
1full
•
Combination payed bad
Dickingbam Pads
5.75
INL
INL
Poudre
•
•
•
Shdtsriver accss
Case Park
15.00
3NL
Joint C' /PSD pick at new FCHS
Cottonwood Glen Pak
20.36
Rands Park
5.20
Golden Meadows Park
11.50
2NL
Pond
•
•
Sheller fdom ststons, payed trail; natural ores
Greenbrier Pads
22.09
2NL
2 full
INL
INL
Pond
.
•
•
•
Shelter
Harmony Puck
10.20
ffickary Park
10.00
Landings Perk
8.00
INL
1 full
2NL
INL
Channel
•
•
Shelter, Pledbcm tennis
LAOLCY Pak
8.4
1
Poudre
•
•
Horseshoes; shelter Part-a-Toild
Library Fade
4.59
•
•
slmft board
Mirwnod Park
11.90
Old Fat Collins Heritage
Pads
13
1 full
Poudre
•
•
Nattbside A73lan Carden, bike trail
Overland Park
15.00
INL
2 junior
2NL
INL
Pond
•
•
•
•
Shelter natural area
RidryiewPark
10.00
Rogers Pack
9.65
1 full
INL
Is
•
•
Sheha, barn
RowboroughFwk
15.80
INL
LNL
•
•
Shelter, fitoesstied
Spring Park
16.99
2,NL
1 junior
3 Crk
Is
•
Ralroam in fire stab • shelter
Trautman Pak
19.54
2 " 'a
2NL
iNL
Pond
•
•
•
3 T-ball fields, soccer
Warren Park
26.00
1NL
2fiill
I 4L
I
Pond
•
•
.
i
AdiaemdtoWsnmLake
D-U. Developed or ilndeveloped
Lighting Status of Sports Fields: L- Lighted, NL- Nora -lighted
iooar fields: full size 65 x 110 yds & 75 x 120 ydr, junior 40 x 80 yds; mini 30 x 50 yds
I I I I I I ' I 1 1 I I I ` 1 l t1
= I = I Basalmll
0
FORT COLLINS PARKS: INVENTORY
TABLE 3.1
FootW I�''f bell �I�el�l�l�ls��
D-U: Developed at UedeveloW
[i104ng SWU of Sports Fidds: I. U&cd, NL. Non-Ligftod
bocce fidds: M size 65 x 110 yds & 75 x 120 yds; jumiar 40 x 90 yds; mini 30 x 50 yds
The City provides 6 outdoor sand
volleyball courts, 4 are located at Rolland
Moore Park, and Legacy and Warren
parks each have one.
Twenty-one outdoor basketball courts
have been developed by the City Parks
and Recreation Department; 3 courts are
lighted at Lee Martinez Park The largest
concentration of courts is at Rolland
Moore where there are 5 unlighted courts.
All of the developed and undeveloped
community parks have a water feature
that is an important element of the park
Rolland Moore and City parks both have
large water bodies that serve as focal
points. Flora and Rolland Moore parks
have Spring Creek, and Lee Martinez
Park has the Poudre River, both of which
serve as valuable amenities within these
parks. In addition, the proposed Fossil
Creek Park includes Portner Reservoir (a
20-acre pond), while Southwest
Community Park contains a segment of
Spring Creek Many neighborhood parks
either have ponds or a water course
within their boundaries.
Playgrounds and picnic areas are located
in nearly all developed community and
neighborhood parks, except Beattie and
Blevins parks, which do not have
developed picnic areas because they are
associated with schools. Wooden
playground equipment at several parks
has been replaced in recent years with
more durable metal structures that
require less maintenance.
Restrooms are located in all of the
community parks and in 9 neighborhood
parks. Mini -parks do not have restroom
facilities due to their small size and
limited service radius.
The City provides 3 outdoor racquetball
courts and 4 platform tennis courts; all 3
racquetball courts are located in Rolland
Moore Park Two platform tennis courts
are located in Landings Park and 2 are
located in Rolland Moore Park
b. Recreation Facilities
The Recreation Division manages and
operates 9 recreation facilities — City Park
Center, City Park Outdoor Pool, Mulberry
Pool, Edora Pool Ice Center, Northside
Aztlan Community Center, Senior Center,
Farm at Lee Martinez Park, Pottery Studio
and Rolland Moore Park Racquet
Complex. The newest facility, Fort Collins
Senior Center, was funded through the
Choices 95 process and opened in 1995.
The Downtown Community Center
closed in 1995 after staff and programs
moved to the new Senior Center.
The Recreation Division programs these
facilities for public recreation. A brief
description of these facilities is provided
below.
City Park Center was built in the 1940s. It
houses a large dance floor and restrooms
on the second floor. An elevator and new
stairway were added to the building in
1991 along with upgraded electrical
service. The ground level is used by the
Recreation Division for storage. The
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-10
E. The Consultant will provide an evaluation of the need for and location
specifications for an outdoor large event facility to host groups of 250 people to
1,000 people. The consultant will provide a recommendation on location, size,
types of facilities, typical capital and operation and maintenance costs, and
other items related to the group gathering site. The information will be finalized
by the Consultant into a format that can be added as an appendix into the Plan.
F. The Consultant will provide an evaluation of the need and location specifications
for a ballfield and turf sports complex (youth and adult), i.e.: baseball, softball,
soccer, rugby, etc. The evaluation should take into account the surrounding
area existing and planned sports complexes. If it is determined that a sports
complex is needed, the consultant will provide a recommendation on preferred
location, size, types and number of facilities, typical capital and operation and
maintenance costs and other items related to the complex. The information will
be finalized by the Consultant into a format that can be added as an appendix
into the Plan.
G. The Consultant will provide an evaluation of the City's existing outdoor tennis
courts and how these courts meet the City's present and future service needs,
factoring in Poudre School District and Colorado State University courts. The
Consultant will review current use and provide a recommendation as to which
courts should remain, and whether new neighborhood parks should contain
courts. Should these courts be reconstructed or constructed as post -tension?
Presently, the City is considering consolidating tennis courts into community
parks. The operation and maintenance cost of tennis courts is high. The City
has a number of tennis courts in neighborhood parks that will need expensive
major rehabilitation in the near future. The information will be finalized by the
Consultant into a format that can be added as an appendix into the Plan.
H. The Consultant will review the City's current recreation and park facility fee
policy and provide examples from other agencies of a variety of recreation fee
and revenue generation policies or philosophies. The Consultant will organize
the collected policies, develop a comparison of key points, and recommend
considerations for improvements to the City's policy. The Consultant will provide
the fee policy information in a format that will allow the City to analyze how fees
could be adjusted to better meet the future budget requirements of the Parks
and Recreation. The information will be finalized by the Consultant into a format
that can be added as an appendix into the Plan. (This is an optional item to the
City and needs to have a stand alone cost.)
I. The Consultant will provide an overview of the City's present parks, trails,
forestry and recreation facilities and programs to answer the question "Are we
missing something now that would be important to the community in the future'.
The idea of this section is to do general comparisons with other similar
communities to see if we should be considering items that are not currently in
our system or in our plans. The information will be finalized by the Consultant
into a format that can be added as an appendix into the Plan
J. The Consultant will provide a statistically valid city wide survey along the
following major points:
2/9/00
second floor is scheduled primarily for
dance and exercise programs and youth
classes. The facility is also rented on
weekends by local dance clubs.
Mulberry Pool (formerly Fort Collins
Community Pool) was opened in 1975.
This facility contains a 25-yard 6-lane
pool; diving well; and a wading area with
a frog slide, raindrop waterfall and turtle
squirt; an in -deck 8-person spa; locker
rooms; seating for about 250 spectators;
and a classroom. A full range of aquatic
programs are
offered, and the
Poudre School
District rents the
facility for its
high school swim
team practices
and meets.
$1,900,000 was
spent in 1992
with funding
from Choices 95
to replace the
HVAC system,
remodeling projects have occurred each
year at this facility. The main pool filters
were replaced in 1995, the cooling tower
was replaced in 1996, and the ice arena
dasher board system will be replaced in
1997.
This 83,000 square foot facility has two
pools, including a 50-meter x 25-yard lap
pool; diving well with 1-meter and 3-
meter boards; a wading pool and warm
therapy pool; an indoor 85' x 200' ice
arena; seating for about 1,000 spectators in
both the ice and
Swimming at EPIC
lighting, the roof
and pool; in addition, an elevator
was added, and the facility was totally
repainted and recarpeted. Staff offices
and the reception area were moved and
expanded, and an assisted change room
was added.
Edora Pool Ice Center (EPIC) opened in
1987. This facility was funded through a
citizen -initiated 1/4 cent five-year sales tax
extension. Operational upgrades and
pool areas;
hockey change
rooms; locker
rooms; a weight
room;
2 meeting/
classrooms; and
a concession
stand.
Swimming and
ice skating
activities of all
kinds are
scheduled at
this facility along with an annual ice show,
hockey tournaments, figure skating
competitions and swim meets. The boys'
and girls' state high school swim meets
have been held at EPIC since 1988.
Poudre School District rents space for
swim team practices and meets. Swim
team, the adult and youth hockey
associations, and the figure skating club
also rent the facility for their programs.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-11
Northside Aztlan Community Center
opened in 1978 and was the first
recreation center in Fort Collins. The
facility contains a gymnasium, weight
room, game room, classroom, kitchen and
locker rooms. The facility is used for
drop -in activities for all ages, City -
sponsored youth and adult leagues,
workouts and recreation classes, youth
boxing and wrestling, Senior
Chuckwagon noon meal program,
Ancianos (Hispanic older adults)
activities, trips, tutoring, SHARE program
site, educational
classes, special
events, meetings
and rentals. Its
construction on
a landfill has
caused serious
structural
problems. Since
1981, about
$535,000 has
been spent to
stabilize the
building, add a
ar
storage structure F
to the north side of the
gymnasium, replace the gym floor and
make other needed improvements.
Anheuser-Busch donated $55,000 in
m at Lee
1989/1990 and numerous improvements
were made in 1990 and 1991, such as
upgrading the ventilation system,
resurfacing the gymnasium floor, adding
a divider curtain in the gymnasium,
painting and replacement of equipment.
A recent structural report recommended
that the facility be rebuilt on a different
site.
Farm at Lee Martinez Park opened in
1985. This facility is a working farm,
featuring animals such as pigs, cows,
goats, chickens, horses and sheep, and
also houses an extensive display of farm
equipment and implements. Many
improvements have been made including
the addition of playground equipment,
two pole barns, landscaping, parking lot
fencing and an addition to the museum.
Programming emphasis is on preschool
age through teens. In conjunction with
the City horticulture program, a children's
community
garden was
started in 1996.
Pottery Studio is
located in a two-
story house that
was built in 1923
at West Oak and
South Bryan
Streets. A
wheelchair -
accessible
Martinez Park restroom was
added to the
First floor in 1994. A year-round pottery
program for all ages is conducted in the
building and the enclosed yard. This
popular activity has outgrown its space.
This facility needs to eventually be
incorporated with another recreation
facility at a new location.
City Park Pool was built in 1949 and is
located adjacent to the City Park Center
and Sheldon Lake. This facility contains a
bathhouse/concession building (new in
1987), which also houses the cashier area
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-12
and a staff room, a very large recreational
pool that ranges from 0 depth to 10 feet,
and a separate wading pool. The wading
pool was replaced in 1992 along with
relocating the filter plant for the wader to
the southwest corner of the first floor of
City Park Center. Many upgrades have
been made to the main pool which is 45
years old and in need of replacement.
The facility is open from early to mid -June
through the end of August and is used for
recreational swimming and lessons. The
pool staff also
manages a
paddle boat
rental program
on Sheldon Lake
in conjunction
with the pool
operation.
A high priority
of the Recreation
Division is to
replace this pool
on the same site
with an
updated, state-of-the-art leisure
pool.
The Fort Collins Tennis Association
(FCTA) uses this facility and other City
courts to provide competitive tennis
programs for adults in the community.
Activities at this complex include
private/semi-private and group lessons,
recreational drop -in tennis, and
tournaments sponsored by FCTA. The
facility has also been used for high school
tennis tournaments in conjunction with
the local school district and state high
school athletic association.
Fort Collins Senior Center
Rolland Moore Park Racquet Complex
opened in 1986. It contains 8 tennis
courts, 2 platform tennis courts,
3 racquetball/handball courts, 4 sand
volleyball courts, an office/pro shop and
restrooms. The facility is staffed from
mid -April through the end of September
Fort Collins
Senior Center is
the newest
facility managed
and operated by
the Recreation
Division.
Located on a 7-
acre site
southeast of
Rolland Moore
Park, it was
completed in
1995. This
40,000 square
foot facility contains meeting/classrooms,
a multi -use room, kitchen, arts and crafts
areas, gymnasium, indoor jog/walk track,
4-lane lap pool, locker rooms, billiards
room and a library/media center. The
outdoor area features a courtyard and
patio, community gardens, horseshoe pits,
easy trail access to Rolland Moore Park,
rose and wildflower gardens, and
hundreds of annual flowers in the
summer.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-13
The staff plans numerous drop -in
activities and trips for older adults. Staff
also programs general interest, sports,
wellness, dance, swimming and arts/crafts
classes for adults aged 18 and older. The
facility is also rented to all types of groups
during evenings and weekends when the
building is closed.
c. Trails and Open Lands Inventory
The Fort Collins Trails System consists of
three major links — the Foothills Trail (5.8
miles), Poudre River Trail (10 miles) and
Spring Creek Trail (8.6 miles). Both the
Poudre River and Spring Creek trails are
paved and used primarily for hikers and
bicyclists. The Foothills Trail has a natural
earthen base and is used primarily by
hikers. The Foothills and Poudre trails are
used to a varying extent for equestrian
activities. Future plans call for an
additional link along Fossil Creek in 1996.
The trail system is presently 24.4 miles
long. The Foothills Trail has been
completed while the Poudre River and
Spring Creek trails are essentially
complete except for crossings and minor
connections. The trail system lacks
connections on the west, thus precluding
a trail user from making a loop. All three
trails have good access and are adjacent to
or overlook a water feature for the
majority of their length.
Trailhead parking is provided at six
locations along the Poudre River. Four
trailheads are located along Spring Creek
and 2 trailheads will be constructed in the
near future to access the planned Fossil
Creek Trail. The Parks and Recreation
Department's goal is to provide trail access
at one -mile intervals.
The City's open lands system, totaling
over 4,700 acres, is organized into three
primary categories for management
purposes -- natural areas, parkland and
greenways. As defined by the City's Open
Lands Natural Areas Management
(OLNA) Team, each of the three primary
categories are further divided into three
subcategories as shown below.
Natural Area Parkland Greenways
Sensitive Cemetery stornaaa yr
Urban Golf Course Light & Power
Restorative Parkways Water/Wastewater
The OLNA Team includes the City
Divisions of Forestry, Natural Resources, -•
Parks, Park Planning and Development,
Recreation and Stormwater.
Natural Areas
Natural areas within the city include the
Poudre River and stream corridors,
wetlands associated with stormwater
utility facilities, the foothills, and other
areas of wildlife or native plant
community importance. Sensitive natural
areas include sites that support rare
plants, unique native plant communities,
special animal species, important animal
habitats and unique or fragile geological
features. These are high priority areas in
terms of management as they can be
impacted by high visitor use. The OLNA
Team is currently drafting management
plans for the Poudre River and the
foothills areas and has completed a plan
for the Cathy Fromme Prairie.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-14
Definitions for all open lands
management categories and subcategories
can be found in Appendix A, General
Management Guidelines for City -Owned
Open Spaces and Natural Areas
(10/21/94). Table 3.2 lists City -owned
natural areas by management
classification. The largest and more well
known sites are shown on Map 3.1.
The City's Natural Resources Department
mapped all natural areas within the UGA
in 1990. These natural resource areas
were identified
by the presence
of plant species
and/or
communities of
ecological
importance.
Mapped areas
include major
habitat
categories such
as aquatic,
marsh and wet
meadow,
Heron nest
riparian forest,
grasslands, upland shrubland,
foothills forest, urban plains forest,
undesirable riparian shrubs and weedy
forbeland. Areas that contain one or more
of these categories are shown on Map 3.2,
Open Lands Considerations. Though not
within the UGA, the Fossil Creek
Reservoir area also contains significant
natural resources that should be protected
and properly managed due to continued
encroachment of urban growth.
Several key properties along the Poudre
River have been acquired by the City and
CSU (Environmental Learning Center);
however, most of the river's floodplain
within the urban growth area (UGA)
remains in private ownership. Current
ongoing studies are working towards
identifying appropriate land uses and
management along the Poudre River
corridor. The City of Fort Collins
continues to pursue acquisition of land for
open space, resource protection and
enhancement purposes along the river. A
1/4 cent sales tax
near Poudre River
approved in
November 1992
has provided the
necessary
funding to
purchase these
natural areas.
This sales tax
expires at the
end of 1997. The
City also
receives a share
of a 1/4 cent
countywide
open space sales tax from 1996 to 2001.
d. Golf Courses
Public golf courses in or near the Fort
Collins city limits offer a total of 72 holes
of golfing for area golfers. Public golf
courses include City Park Nine (9 holes),
Collindale (18 holes), Link-N-Greens (18-
hole executive course), Mountain Vista (9
holes) and SouthRidge (18 holes). 'The
City of Fort Collins owns and operates
City Park mine, Collindale and
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-15
Table 3.2
City -Owned Natural Areas
(9117196)
ICathyFrommePrauie
659
RRossO30PSpringizParkR2
Pinerkige
528
Fischer
11
Bignail
2
Maxwell
167
Prospect Ponds
25
Gustav Swanson
11
Nature Area
CampeauNeservoir Ridg"
Archery Range
50
Udall
25
Riverbend Ponds
219
Salyer
24
Redwing Marsh
17
Coyote Ridge
759
Legacy Natural Area
13
W.R.EN. Pit
48
Springer
22
North Shields Pond
10
The Coterie
5
Prairie Dog Meadow
53
Arapaho Bend
278
Stormwater Detention 4
Fossil Creek Wetlands
229
Red Fox Meadows
35
Areas (2 sites)
Redtail Grove
40
Hickory Natural Area
11
Water, and Light 6s
70
Lee Martinez Park
46
Power Facilities (2 sites)
Old Fort Collins
2
Heritage Park
Stormwater Detention
90
Areas (9 sites)
Water Facilities
35
(3 sites)
Total 3,006
Total
660
Total
114
Note: The Foothills Trail
Note: The Poudre River
easement & ROW is also
& Spring Creek bike trail
under this management
easements do ROW are
classification
also under this
management
classification
r
Fort Collins Parka and Recreation Policy Plan
3-16
SouthRidge (totaling 353 acres), while the
other daily fee courses are in private
ownership. In addition,18 holes of golf
are provided at the semi-public
Ptarmigan Golf Course and another 18
holes at the Fort Collins Country Club, a
private club requiring membership.
Mountain Vista may add another 9 holes
within a few years, and Ptarmigan may
become a private club in the near future.
e. Other Properties
The Parks Division is responsible for
maintaining various medians and
streetscapes within Port Collins.
Maintenance efforts, including mowing,
weed control, irrigation and trash
removal, vary based on the type of
median or streetscape. Different
treatments include rock landscaped
medians, irrigated medians and frontage
roads, landscaped streetscapes, and
streetscapes with natural plant growth.
The two City -owned cemeteries,
Grandview and Roselawn (totaling
69.6 acres), are also supervised and
maintained by the Parks and Recreation
Department.
3. Condition of City Parks
The existing condition of the Fort Collins
park system was discussed with staff from
the Parks Maintenance Division. Overall,
the parks in Fort Collins are well designed
and maintained. The focus in reviewing
each park was on identifying specific
problems%ssues that should be remedied
or at least discussed in further detail
among Parks and Recreation staff.
a. Community Parks
City Park
• The park has 2 restroom facilities that
are not adequate for the high use
level and size of the park An
additional restroom is needed.
• Summer time parking is inadequate.
• The ability to drive through the park
continues to be an item of concern.
Cruising is difficult to control without
closing one or more access points to
the park
• Poor water quality at Sheldon Lake
has been an issue for a number of
years. The lake is part of a storm
drainage system that contributes to
the murky water appearance. Heavy
waterfowl use of the lake adds a high
level of phosphate to the water that
also negatively affects water quality.
In addition, residents have
complained about odor from the lake.
The canal through City Park has been
eroded and is in need of
improvement too.
Edora Park
The park does not accommodate
picnic use very well. There are no
shelters.
The irrigation pond has a siltation
problem and needs to be dredged.
The playground surface area is too
large and requires more maintenance
than other park playgrounds.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-17
Lee Martinez Park
• The restroom/concession facility is in
poor condition. The concession area
is used only for storage.
• During high use, the upper terrace
area by the tracks becomes the
primary parking lot. This area is not
paved, so parking is somewhat
haphazard.
• Vandalism is often a problem.
• The press boxes and bleachers at the
ballfields are in need of improve-
ment.
• Parking at
the Farm is
inadequate
for special
events.
Rolland Moore
Park
Multiple
events that
attract
significant
numbers of
people often occur
simultaneously, resulting in
inadequate parking.
Basketball court use conflicts with use
as overflow parking.
Neighborhood residents complain
about noise and lighting at the park.
b. Large Neighborhood Parks
Avery Park
• A new restroom facility has improved
the park
Beattie Park
A restroom facility was recently
constructed.
Blevins Park
Rendezvous at lee Martinez Park
• The park may
be City's first
site for the
new adopt -a -
park program.
• Homeowners
would like to
see lights
added to the
park to better
accommodate
junior high
school
sports
programs.
There is no permanent restroom facility.
The Soccer Club brings in a ports -toilet
during its season. Overall park use
level is not high enough to justify a
permanent restroom.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-18
Buckingham Park
Vandalism continues to occur.
Golden Meadows
The lake is difficult to maintain. The
Colorado Division of Wildlife allows
fishing.
The park needs a drinking fountain.
Greenbriar Park
This is a newly -developed park in
good condition.
Obtaining adequate water from canal
has been difficult.
Pond needs liner to prevent seepage.
Landings
Restroom needed; funding available
for construction in 1996.
Legacy Park
The access to the park has been
improved with construction of a
pedestrian bridge across the Poudre
River west of College Avenue.
The area is frequently utilized by
homeless people. This use may
discourage some people from using
the park
Library Park
The museum would like to expand.
Old Fort Collins Heritage Park
No problems were identified.
Overland Park
The wood playground equipment
was removed due to the high level of
maintenance required.
Fields are often wet due to inadequate
drainage.
Rogers Park
The barn structure is frequently
vandalized.
Reservations for facility use have been
requested though they are not
currently allowed.
Wildflower planting along the trail
has been very successful.
Rossborough Park
No off-street parking is available.
Staff would like to get on -street
parking approved if additional
programming is developed in the
park
High school students are said to cause
problems.
Spring Park
A new pump plant was recently
constructed for the lake.
The park needs a permanent restroom
facility and drinking fountain.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-19
Troutman Park Freedom Square Park -.
• The playground receives heavy use in
Lights are no longer in use due to .,
winter by Lopez Elementary School
persistent vandalism.
students.
_
• Water for the pond and park
High School Park „
irrigation comes from Pleasant Valley
Canal. The canal is not lined and
0 Future use of old Fort Collins High
some of the water is lost before
School may direct future use of the
reaching the park
park
• Gazebo frequently vandalized.
Warren Park
Indian Hills
• The park is unable to accommodate
more people because of the limited
No identified problems.
capacity of the existing composting
type restroom.
Jefferson Park
• The park receives high use for soccer
and tennis.
a Concern has been raised about
transient use of the park and the ,.
c. Mini -Neighborhood Parks
surrounding area.
• This site may have potential as a
Alta Vista
gateway to the Poudre River related "
to commercial redevelopment.
• The wood play structures were
—
replaced with metal equipment.
Leisure Park
Eastside Park
Playground was recently renovated. _
• Newly -constructed with no identified
Romero Park
problems.
• No problems were identified.
Creekside
Spencer Park
• A solar -powered air pump for bike
tires and a drinking fountain were
The park receives little use.
recently installed.
-
Washington Park
• No problems were identified.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-20
1) What percentage of the citizens use parks, trails, recreation facilities, and
programs?
2) What do citizens do in our parks, trails and recreation facilities?
3) Frequency of visits to the parks, trails, recreation facilities and programs.
4) Value or importance of parks, trails, recreation facilities and programs.
5) What do citizens want that that is not currently provided by our parks,
trails, recreation facilities and programs?
6) Open comments section.
7) Demographics.
The Consultant will be expected to fully develop the survey with detailed
discussions with City staff. The survey will need to support the Parks and
Recreation "Budgeting for Outcomes" budget process that includes capital and
operation and maintenance items.
K. The Consultant will provide a cost estimate to write the plan or to assist the City
in writing the Plan. The work could range from assisting staff in writing particular
section(s); entirely writing particular section(s); or may include the responsibility
for writing the entire Plan.
V. FEES
The consultant services will be awarded based on a Not -to -Exceed Time and Reimbursable
Direct Cost Basis Agreement. The consultant will provide as part of their proposal an
appropriate order -of magnitude estimate of the fees based upon the services described in
this proposal. Upon the selection of the Consultant, the final fee will be negotiated with
input from the Consultant based upon how they view the overall project.
VI. SCHEDULE
July 2006: R.F.P. awarded
July 2006 — January 2007: Development of the plan and public and City process
February 2007: Draft of plan due
March 2007: Final review by Boards and Commissions
April 2007: Adoption of the plan by Council
2/9/00
Woodwest Park
No problems were identified.
d. Trails and Natural Areas
The existing conditions of the City's trails
and natural areas system vary. The
Poudre River and Spring Creek trails are
heavily used and receive routine
maintenance to ensure public safety.
Portions of the Poudre River trail have
unattractive views to adjacent industrial
areas or other disturbed landscapes.
Ongoing land use and engineering
studies for the Poudre River are
beginning to address critical issues
pertaining to the future care,
management and opportunities
associated with this important community
resource.
Conflicts between pedestrians, runners,
in -line skaters, bicyclists and off -leash
dogs are common on both the Poudre
River and Spring Creek trails, and
recently on the Foothills trail. This is
primarily due to high use levels.
Several other natural areas are also
experiencing similar conflicts and
degradation of trails due to heavy bicycle
use. Management plans are being
developed for several popular natural
areas to address these issues. The plans
will also identify areas that need
restoration.
e. Recreation Facilities
The state of existing conditions for the
City's primary recreation facilities was
obtained from surveys filled out by Parks
and Recreation staff and private
recreation program providers. The
following is a list of comments made about
each facility.
Pottery Studio
• Space for programs is inadequate;
conditions are crowded.
The building's interior layout is poor.
• Lighting is inadequate
• The building has poor entry access;
ice is a problem at the north entry and
in the street.
• There is not enough parking.
City Park Center
First floor storage area needs
remodeling.
Second floor remodel is necessary to
improve efficiency of the space.
Additional parking in the summer for
this facility and the adjacent City Park
Pool is needed.
Northside Aztlan Community Center
The building still has serious settling
problems. A study was conducted in
early 1996 that states the Center
should be relocated.
It needs new carpeting and painting.
Expansion of the building is needed.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-21
The Farm at Martinez Park
• Most facilities are in good condition,
but the pond needs renovation.
• The restrooms are inadequate.
• Parking is insufficient for special
events.
• Some exterior pathway slopes do not
meet ADA standards.
Edora Pool Ice Center
• Lobby area is too small during large
events.
• Locker and dressing room space for
skaters is inadequate, particularly for
female skaters.
• The meeting room and storage space
is inadequate.
• A changing room for figure skaters is
desired.
• A studio rink (as shown on the
Facility Site Plan) would reduce the
demand for the main ice arena.
Mulberry Pool
Conditions are good. The facility was
renovated in 1992.
City Park Pool
Major repair or replacement is
needed because of the age and slow
deterioration of the facility.
Rolland Moore Park Racquet Complex
Tennis court settling is a major
concern. Repairs are costly.
Fort Collins Senior Center
No problems were identified.
f. Golf Courses
The City of Fort Collins owns, operates
and maintains three golf courses: City
Park Nine, Collindale and SouthRidge.
City Park Nine was constructed circa 1940
and has somewhat narrow fairways and
smallish greens. The course, clubhouse
building and all maintenance structures
are in good condition. However, the tight
nature of this regulation size 9-hole course
causes problems with errant golf balls
going into the streets adjacent to City Park
or the adjacent Grandview Cemetery.
Also the driving range is too small to allow
golfers to practice with all their clubs, so
use of the range is limited to irons only.
Range balls' are still found throughout
adjacent fairways. Monitoring and
addressing these potential safety issues
will continue to be a key concern at City
Park Nine through the next decade.
Collindale Golf Course is a premier 18-
hole regulation size course that was
opened for play in 1971. The quality of
the greens and the excellent condition of
the course itself continue to attract many
golfers. The clubhouse building,
however, is outdated and will require
fairly extensive upgrades within the next
10 years. Completing the golf car path
program, bridge renovations and parking
lot improvements are high priorities.
Fort Collins Parka and Recreation Policy Plan
3-22
SouthRidge Golf Club is an 18-hole
regulation size course that has sculptured
fairways with challenging sand and water
hazards, well -manicured greens and tee
boxes, and diverse elevations offering
scenic views of the Rocky Mountains.
SouthRidge opened in 1984 and is
generally in good condition with
adequate facilities. However, the design
of the driving range,17th and 18th holes
are not ideal. Redesign of these areas
should be considered; an addition to the
clubhouse and golf cart storage area and
additional restrooms are also needed.
g. Water Use
The City currently irrigates approximately
384.4 acres of turf grasses at 38 different
park sites. In addition, several acres of
shrub material and trees are irrigated at
most of the parks. It is estimated that
more than 90% of the water applied is
used to irrigate turf. Five locations are
irrigated entirely by untreated
agricultural irrigation water, five locations
are irrigated by a combination of
municipal treated water and untreated
agricultural irrigation water, and 110
locations are irrigated entirely by
municipal treated water. Approximately
152 acres of turf are irrigated with
municipal treated water, and the
remaining 250 acres of turf are irrigated
with untreated agricultural irrigation
water which is equivalent to an annual
use of 366.6 million gallons of raw water.
Historical water use data, combined with
the water requirements published in the
Fort Collins Water Department Rate
Study, indicate an average annual
irrigation water requirement for turf grass
of about 27 inches per year. Twenty-
seven inches of municipal treated water
applied to 152 acres of turf is equivalent to
an annual treated water use of 98.3 million
gallons.
At the present time, the Park Division
pays for treated water at the park sites. If
trends within other Colorado cities hold
true, future water costs will become a
significant line item in the Park Division's
budget. At today's costs, the treated water
bill in 1994 for irrigating the parks in Fort
Collins exceeded $155,385 (based on the
1994 irrigation -only water rate of $0.94 per
1,000 gallons and an annual use of 111.5
million gallons). Based on these costs
alone, proper management of water is a
critical concern for the City.
The current City policy is that future park
development should utilize untreated
agricultural water wherever feasible.
Irrigating turf and other plant material
does not require treated water and a cost
savings may be realized by using
agricultural water, since conveyance and
storage systems are already in existence in
much of Fort Collins.
The City has equipped all of the parks
with automatic irrigation controllers and
budgets these costs for new parks being
developed.
Fort Coffins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-23
C. School District Recreational
Resources
In addition to providing educational
services, public schools serve a limited
amount of the community's recreational
needs. In the Fort Collins area, there are
31 public schools: 5 high schools, 6 junior
high schools, and 20 elementary schools.
The locations of these schools are
identified on Map 3.1, Existing
Conditions.
Through rental agreements with the
Poudre School District, the Recreation
Division uses some school facilities for
City recreation programs. Table 3.3,
Poudre School District Recreation
Facilities, presents an inventory of the
schools and related facilities that are used
for these programs (except the mountain
schools). School gymnasiums,
playgrounds and tennis courts are the
facilities most often used. In addition to
the formal recreation programs, casual
public use of outdoor recreation areas
occurs at almost every school, particularly
the sports fields, tennis courts and
playground areas. In addition, the City
has a priority to program school tennis
courts as needed in the summer.
Co -location of schools and parks provides
an efficiency that has been recognized in
the siting of several park facilities.
Existing schools associated with parks are
Beattie Elementary and Beattie
Neighborhood Park, Blevins Junior High
and Blevins Neighborhood Park,
Riffenburgh Elementary and Edora Park,
Lopez Elementary and Troutman Park,
Laurel Elementary and Eastside
Neighborhood Park, and Linton
Elementary and English Ranch Park New
elementary and junior high schools have
also been built adjacent to Westfield Park
Colorado State University has a variety of
recreational facilities. However, due to
University policies, CSU facilities cannot
be considered as community recreational
resources. University policy specifies that
their facilities are intended for use only by
students, faculty and those people
officially associated with CSU. Although
there are some exceptions to this policy
where facilities have been rented for
public recreation, CSU facilities were not
included in the inventory of recreational
facilities.
D. Regional Recreation Resources
Regional recreation resources serving Fort
Collins include areas managed by federal,
state and county agencies. These
recreation areas offer primarily large,
water -based recreational opportunities or
passive, open space oriented activities.
1. Federal
Federal recreation resources in the area
include Roosevelt National Forest, Rocky
Mountain National Park and Pawnee
National Grasslands. All are located
within a 1%z-hour drive. Two of the areas
are characterized by the spectacular
mountain scenery typical of the Rocky
Mountains, and they offer users many
opportunities for passive recreation
including hiking, backpacking, camping
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-24
and fishing. Pawnee is east of Fort Collins
and is an outstanding example of the
native short -grass prairie. The grassland
also offers opportunities for passive
recreation.
2. State
The State of Colorado also manages
several recreational resources in the Fort
Collins area. Lory State Park includes
2,419 acres and is located directly west of
Fort Collins in the foothills. This state
park includes
rock formations
and scenic
features that are
characteristic of
the Front Range
topography.
Uses allowed in
the park are
primarily
passive in nature
such as
picnicking,
backcountr_y
Ftorset
camping, hiking,
horseback riding, mountain
biking, rock climbing, cross-country skiing
and hunting. The park is adjacent to
Horsetooth Reservoir and therefore
provides access to fishing.
Another state-owned area is Boyd lake
State Recreation Area. This recreation
area includes 197 acres of land and 1,747
acres of water and is located between
Loveland and Fort Collins east of U.S.
Highway 287. A water -based recreation
area, it affords numerous activities
includingsriling, inotorboating,
swimming, Fishing and hunting.
Picnicking 6 nd camping are also
permitted.
The Colorado Division of Wildlife
manages several lakes and reservoirs
surrounding Fort Collins including
Wellington Reservoirs #3 and #4, Smith
Reservoir and Watson Lake. Permitted
uses vary with the area; in general, fishing
is allowed but hunting is prohibited. In
addition, th Division of Wildlife manages
the Wellington
State Wildlife
Area. This
2,300-acre area is
located 'lust east
of Wellington
and Interstate
25; it is used
primarily for
waterfowl
hunting.
3. County
ooth Reservoir
Several parks
near Fort Collins are owned and managed
by Larimer ";bounty. These range from
large, water -based recreation areas to
Smaller, open space -oriented parks.
Recreational use of Horsetooth Reservoir
is managed by the County. This 3,900-
acre reservoir is located immediately west
of the city and provides a wide range of
water resou ce activities including
boating, swimming and waterskiing. In
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Polio, Plan
3-2.5
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,
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Wost aoj*aa webaU fields at ekmmwy sd&wb owr* with mccer/,ii o*a field+ mid are udtable ot*fo. p acdcas or T-MU gdma.
addition, opportunities are available for
camping, picnicking and hiking near the
reservoir.
Horsetooth Mountain Park is located in
the foothills just west and adjacent to
Horsetooth Reservoir. As with Lory State
Park, Horsetooth Mountain Park features
the topography, vegetation and rock
outcroppings characteristic of the Front
Range. The park offers 2,100 acres of
excellent opportunities for hiking,
mountain biking, horseback riding and
picnicking.
Use levels at county parks and reservoirs
continue to grow. Capacity is reached at
these parks on most weekends during the
summer recreation season. Camping,
picnicking and water -related facilities are
in need of major repair or replacement.
Smaller county parks in the area include
Strauss Cabin and Bingham HUI (which
are historic sites), McMurray Park and
Lions Park. These areas offer open space -
oriented activities such as picnicking,
fishing and hiking. The county also
operates a shooting range for both rifle
and handgun target practice. Strauss
Cabin is a historic structure located along
the Poudre River. The cabin, constructed
in 1864, is located on its original site and
has an architectural style that is unique in
Colorado. The two-story log construction
reflects a design built in Kentucky and
Indiana in the 1800s. The hand-hewn
pine logs were joined in dovetail corners
(a technique requiring great skill and
patience), and the inside walls were
white -washed. Bingham Hill is also a
historic site. Named for Samual Bingham
who settled at the base in 1860, the site
overlooks Bellvue and Pleasant Valley
where the earliest settlers of the Poudre
River located. The park provides a scenic
view of the valley, the foothills and
Greyrock Mountain, and is used primarily
for picnicking and hiking. McMurray
Park is an open space area with a pond
adjacent to the Poudre River and is used
for picnicking, fishing and hiking. Lions
Park is also an open space area adjacent to
the Poudre River and is used primarily for
picnicking and fishing.
E. Open Lands Opportunities
Important natural resource areas include
floodplains, wildlife habitats and
significant topographic or scenic features.
These resources are shown in Map 3.2,
Open Lands Considerations. Amore
complete discussion of natural resource
areas occurring in and around the city is
provided in the "City of Fort Collins
Natural Areas Policy Plan" prepared in
1992. The overview that follows focuses
on the relationship between parks and
natural areas and the recreational
opportunities associated with open lands.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-28
Floodplains
Floodplain land is an important
consideration in park and open space=
planning. Floodplains are generally
subject to significant limitations to
development and are therefore likely to
remain as open space. These areas
provide important wildlife habitats and
are often scenic areas that are well suited
for passive activities. As open space,
floodplains can be used to link
recreational facilities and provide public
recreation access
to its associated
wah rway.
Floodplains of
note in the Fort
Collins area are
associated with
the Poudre
River, Spring
Creek, Fossil
i'reck, Boxelder
-reek, Cooper
Slough and Dry
Creek- Map .�.�
shows the lUO-
vear Floodplain for
each of these drainages.
I?,; n( ' V rt•u L'it, 'rO�r-°c t I'on r, and the
\rrh r\7 Ka II f It (itv als
� Uh�lantial park.l-ind and natur& areas
ilono spring tin ok including R„lland
Moo", 1'ark,'*ring Park, Fd(ir,i Park and
hr, I ischer and Rcss natural area. I=t,ssil
reek. Park i� located along I,os,il Creek.
\< indicated urn Vlap S.2, portion. of •he
„udre Ri�eranl Springf retk nanu•al
�e;o�irce areas have vet to he included in
het ON: � Open Land, Plan. 1`t,rtion,, of
[ 'r,">k and other d rainag ; art
n1 t,:•41,tecled' a h hough the C i1 v
Poudre Ilirrr tlr.uu'�h fhr 1 rmi•o:nx, -tal
The City of Fort Collins has established a
precedent for acquiring natural areas and
parkland adjacent to Floodplains. Along
the Poudre River, the city has five parks:
Lee Martinez, Buckingham, Legacy,
Hickory and Old Fort Collins Heritage.
Citv natural areas along the Poudre River
include North Shields Ponds, Gustav
Swanson, Salyer, Riverbend Ponds, l Nall,
Bignall, Springer/Williams, Arapahoe
I t„ II t. ruck
Park.. athv
! rt mrn� I'tairir
iPrai;i�
'1/Ieadoty.
Red taiI C;t�'V('
anti I)ssil t._recl.
kVctlal)'—k
fh. City, 1 Forl
(-ollin, ha�,tl,t,
load} lams a"
n'ait ct,rridora t,
!ink recrealion
tecil ties and natural area,,. \
hiking'biking trail ha, been nett loprd
alnt ; thr, P, udie River from Ialt 1 I i I I it,
t!It' 'c;l !,m iro imental I.earmng t c.'ntci.
and a trail has also been conslructcd A(mv.
Spring Creek from the Poudrt' Riv L'r to
'�rmthwetil Park.
2. Wildlife Habitats
I he majority of significant urban "ildlitt
habitats in the Fctrt Collins vicinity occur
in r!parian area:;, the foothills and tl e
Fort Collins Parkti,ind Recreation Pnlicc Plan
3- 2t,
larger prairies and open lands along Fossil
Creek According to the Colorado
Division of Wildlife, approximately 90%
of all wildlife species use riparian areas to
fulfill all or part of their habitat needs.
The most significant riparian habitats in
the area are along the Poudre River which
supports fairly dense tree and shrub
growth along most of the river's length
through the city. Other well -developed,
riparian areas exist along parts of Spring
Creek, Mail Creek and Fossil Creek
These riparian areas are shown on the
Open Lands Considerations Map, Map
32, The foothills and Fossil Creek areas
contains significant raptor habitat.
Wetland areas are also important wildlife
habitat. The Poudre River is an important
wetland area. Wetland areas occur along
the river channel as well as in adjacent
gravel ponds and marsh areas. Spring
Creek, Dry Creek, Fossil Creek, Boxelder
Creek and Cooper Slough are other
drainages that include important
wetlands. In addition to these drainages,
the many lakes and ponds around Fort
Collins serve as important habitat for
wildlife, especially for geese and other
species of waterfowl.
3. Visually Sensitive Zone
Fort Collins' western edge is physically
defined by the hogback formation that
provides an attractive visual backdrop for
the community. With the exception of
three dams along the east side of
]Hbrsetooth Reservoir, this fast ridgeline
and east -facing slope is primarily natural
in character and is considered to be a
visually sensitive zone. Shown on Map
3.2, the zone roughly begins at the
elevation of 5,2W feet and continues up to
the ridgeline. The City's Utility and
Planning Departments have set 5,2W feet
as the maximum finished floor elevation
for development due to water supply
limitations. A portion of this zone has
been preserved as City -owned natural
areas — Coyote Ridge, Pineridge,
Maxwell, Campeau and Reservoir Ridge.
4. Region Between Fort Collins and
Loveland
The "Plan for the Region Between
Loveland and Fort Collins" seeks to
maintain an open bufferpf land that
preserves the separate identities of these
two communities. The plan map is also
designed to protect valuable habitat, an
open visual corridor to the foothills and
Rocky Mountains, and some rural
landscape character. The Plan was
adopted by Larimer County, Fort Collins
and Loveland in 1995.
The plan area consists of three distinct
resource areas that have been designated
as the Fossil Creek Resource Area (east),
the Agriculture Resource Area (central)
and the Foothills Resource Area (west).
Up to 26 distinct habitat types have been
identified in the corridor. Although field
surveys have been limited in the area,
several species of concern have been
observed, and it is likely that other
important species occur. Without careful
planning, this region and its resources
will become fragmented and of reduced
value to wildlife.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
3-30
VII. REVIEW AND ASSESSMENT
Professional firms will be evaluated on the following criteria. These criteria will be the basis
for review of the written proposals and interview session.
The rating scale shall be from 1 to 5, with 1 being a poor rating, 3 being an average rating,
and 5 being an outstanding rating.
WEIGHTING
QUALIFICATION
STANDARD
FACTOR
2.0
Scope of Proposal
Does the proposal show an understanding of the
project objective, methodology to be used and
results that are desired from the project?
2.0
Assigned Personnel
Do the persons who will be working on the project
have the necessary skills? Are sufficient
people of the requisite skills assigned to the
project?
1.0
Availability
Can the work be completed in the necessary time?
Can the target start and completion dates be
met? Are other qualified personnel available to
assist in meeting the project schedule if
required? Is the project team available to
attend meetings as required by the Scope of
Work?
1.0
Motivation
Is the firm interested and are they capable of doing
the work in the required time frame?
2.0
Cost and
Do the proposed cost and work hours compare
Work Hours
favorably with the project Manager's estimate?
Are the work hours presented reasonable for
the effort required in each project task or
phase?
2.0
Firm Capability
Does the firm have the support capabilities the
assigned personnel require? Has the firm done
previous projects of this type and scope?
2/9/00
T COLLINS PARKS & RECREATION POLICY PLA
Existing Conditions Community Pwks Nstt,wAr.lus
1. city 4. Lee Martinez a. Arapaho Band
Map 3.1 2. Edora 5. Rolland Moore b. Archery Rarpe
3. Fossil Creel* 6. Southwest* c. Bignall
d. Campeau/ Res
n. North SKIN
o. Pinerldge
P. Prairis Dog
o- 113 o P
No Text
Chapter Four
Issues and Needs
Chapter Four Issues and Needs
This chapter discusses the key issues
facing the City of Fort Collins in
providing parks and recreation services
for its residents. The need for additional
recreational facilities and parks has also
been identified. Special attention has
been given to determining how many of
the most extensively used facilities are
needed, as these have the greatest impact
on the City's budget and the space
required in neighborhood and
community parks to accommodate them.
The chapter begins with a profile of
demographic trends and economic
considerations. Section B summarizes
recent community surveys that give
insight into perceptions of the general
population. Section C addresses the
issues, demands and recommended level
of service for each of the major
recreational sports facilities as well as
parks, trails and natural areas.
A. Demographic and
Socioeconomic Factors
Demographic and socioeconomic
characteristics of Fort Collins residents
influence the demand for and ability to
pay for recreational services and facilities.
This section profiles key characteristics of
the population.
1. Existing and Projected Population
The number of people who are (or will be)
located within the city and the
surrounding area is one of the most
important factors in determining
community needs.
As shown in Table 4.1, population in Fort
Collins grew by 35% from 1980 to 1990
(U.S. Census,1990). Growth continues
into the 1990s at approximately 3% per
year, about one-half the average annual
increase that was experienced during the
1980s.
Table 4.1
f istDric Population Growth 1980-1990
Fort Collins City 65,092 87,759 22,667 3576
Limits
Larimer County 1 149,184 1 187,415 1 38,231 1 26%
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-1
In 1995 the population within the City
reached 100,000. According to the City
Planning Department (1995), by the year
2005, Fort Collins' population is expected
to be 135,365, an increase of
approximately 2.8% per year (see Table
4.2). The population within the Urban
Growth Area (UGA) is also expected to
increase, primarily due to growth within
and expansion of the Fort Collins city
limits. Most growth in the past 10 years
has occurred in the southern half of the
Urban Growth Area, with less growth
occurring in the northern portion of the
city. This trend is not expected to
continue as the City has adopted policies
to encourage new development in the
northern portions of the city and has
identified an activity center in the
northeast. Instead, City planners are
anticipating a more even distribution of
growth throughout the city. By the year
2015, the city is expected to contain
150,000 people (City Planning
Department,1996).
Although Larimer County is growing at a
slower rate than the City of Fort Collins,
the county is expected to grow at
approximately 2% per year until the year
2005, resulting in a total of more than
24VW people. These numbers include
residents in Fort Collins and Loveland,
which both offer a broad range of
recreational opportunities. However, a
significant number of county residents
(approximately 58,000 in 1990) live in the
unincorporated areas of the county or in
towns that have limited recreational
programs and facilities. This is significant
because many nearby county residents,
especially those in the Fort Collins UGA,
use the parks and recreational facilities
and programs offered by the City of Fort
Collins.
Table 4.2
Projected Population Growth 1990-2005
"Calculations prepared by City Staff for the Fort Collins Congestion Management Plan, April 1995.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-2
2. Age Distribution
The size of specific age groups is another
significant factor in determining the
demand for recreational facilities and
programs. The age distribution of the Fort
Collins population in 1980 and 1990
appears in Table 4.3. Approximately 22%
of the city's population was 18-24 years
old in 1990 compared to approximately
30% in 1980 — a decrease of more than
8%. The presence of Colorado State
University skews the distribution toward
this age group; but as the city grows, the
university's influence becomes less
pronounced.
During the 1980s, the next largest change
in age group occurred in the 35 to 49 age
group, from 12.5% of the population in
1980 to 20.2% in 1990. This is typical
across the nation as the "baby boomers"
grow older. In the next ten years, the
majority of the people in this age group
will be in the next age group (50 to 64
years) and can be expected to participate
in fewer physically strenuous activities
and team sports.
Another method of predicting the
demand for youth sports is projected
student enrollment in the Poudre School
District. Although the district
boundariesextend as far north as the
Wyoming border and west to Jackson
County at theContinental Divide, Fort
Collins is the largest city in the district,
and its residents make up the great
majority of the students within the
district. Even though the total population
in the Fort Collins Urban Growth Area is
projected to increase by more than 4500
people in the next 10 years (Table 4.2), the
school age population is expected to
remain relatively constant, with perhaps
as few as 700 to 1,000 additional school
age children within the entire school
district (Table 4.4). According to Mr. I.
Carol Agee, who projects enrollments for
the school district, this is supported by a
substantial decline in the number of
school children per single family dwelling
unit (from 1.1 elementary students per
single-family household in 1980 to 0.4 in
1995). Another factor that contributes to
the marked decrease in the proportion of
the population that will be of school age
in ten years is the longer life span of the
average American. Although birthrates
and family size are declining, people are
living longer, resulting in a net increase in
the total population and larger numbers
of people in the older age groups.
Fort Collins Parr and Recreation Policy Plan
4-3
Table 4.3
Port Collins Age Distribution
The following is a summary of historic and projected data on school age children in the �.
Fort Collins area.
Table 4.4
Historic and Projected Numbers of School Age Children
0 Source. Enrollment Report, Poudre School District, T. Carol Agee, October -November 1994.
#Based on the percentage (5.1 %) of all school -age children who were prioak4tome schooled in 1990.
"Based on the percentage (8.2%) of all sclml age children who were private/home schooled in 1994.
Fort Collins Parka and Recreation Policy Plan
4-4
The implications of little growth in the
total youth population over the next ten
years should be carefully analyzed to
determine what facilities may or may not
be needed in this time frame.
3. Income
Income influences the ability to pay for
parks and recreation services. In 1990, the
median household annual income was
$2026. Nearly 45% of Fort Collins
households earned between $25,000 and
$75,000 per year. Twenty-nine percent of
households earned between $10,000 and
$25,000 per year,18% earned less than
$10AW per year and approximately 8%
earned over $75,000 per year.
4. Summary
Fort Collins is expected to grow by
another 35,000 people in the next ten
years. New development is expected to
occur in a relatively even distribution
around the city, with new emphasis on
development in the northern portion of
the UGA, an area that has not seen much
new growth in the recent past. The
majority of the population will be over 18
years of age, with the number of people in
the 5 to 18 age bracket staying almost the
size it is today.
B. Recent Community Surveys
Surveys are a good way to determine
where residents recreate and what they
think about the parks system. In 1991 the
City conducted a mail -out, mail -back
survey that resulted in 510 responses from
randomly selected households in Fort
Collins. The most frequently used
community park was City Park, with 85%
of the respondents stating that they used
the park in the past year. Rolland Moore
Park was used by 73% of the respondents.
Edora Park and Lee Martinez Park were
used by 67% and 65% of the respondents,
respectively. The most popular
neighborhood parks were Library,
Warren and Spring parks, with 45%, 35%
and 26% of the respondents saying that
they used these parks in the past year,
respectively. The remaining 11
neighborhood parks were visited by 7% to
17% of the respondents.
When asked why they visited parks in
Fort Collins, the most frequent responses
were relaxation (68%), walkingllogging
(64%), trails (637o), picnics (54%),
playgrounds (42%), trees and flowers
(42%), athletic fields (38%), watching
sports events (34%) and viewing wildlife
(34%)-
When asked what facilities they used, the
most frequent responses were trails (69%),
picnic areas (58%), playgrounds (46%),
ponds and streams (37%), volleyball
(30%), City Park swimming pool (26%)
and tennis (21 %). Athletic field usage was
listed as follows: softball (19%), soccer
(15%), baseball (7%) and football (71/6).
Basketball and ice skating at City Park
were both listed by 16% of the
respondents.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-5
When asked if there were enough of
specific park facilities and amenities, the
items that received a majority of "no"
responses (from those who had an
opinion) were drinking fountains (64%),
natural, greenbelt, pond and open space
areas (59%), park benches (53%), trails
(52%), flower beds (51 %) and restrooms
(50%). Other amenities and facilities that
received significant "not enough"
responses were trees (44%), outdoor
swimming pools (43 %), picnic tables and
shelters (39%), and volleyball (37%).
Indoor swimming pools, soccer, tennis,
softball, basketball, and baseball were
listed as "not enough" by 31 %, 29%, 28%,
25%, 24% and 23% of the respondents,
respectively.
In 1994, the City conducted another mail
survey that asked many similar questions
and received 168 responses. From 30% to
50% of those surveyed did not have an
opinion on various questions. Of those
who did have opinions, the results were
similar to the 1991 survey in terms of
which amenities and facilities were
perceived as most needed: drinking
fountains (62%), outdoor swimming pools
(52%), restrooms (46%), trails (40%), park
benches (40%), and picnic tables (37%).
The amount of natural, grpenbelt, pond
and open space areas was not addressed
in the 1994 survey. Facilities that were
not addressed in the 1991 survey that
showed significant support in the 1994
survey were drop -in facilities for youth
(60%), outdoor ice skating (56%), indoor
gymnasiums (47%) and workout exercise
facilities (46%).
C. Major Recreational/Sports
Facilities
The previous chapter inventoried the
numbers and condition of the numerous
recreational and sports facilities in the
City. This section documents the
following-
0 Usage of the facilities;
• Citizen and staff perceptions related
to the needs and demands for
additional facilities;
• An analysis of the net cost to the City
to provide programs, operations and
maintenance of the facilities;
• A comparison of the numbers of these
public facilities available in Fort
Collins and those available in other
cities along the Front Range of
Colorado (in summer of 1995); and
Conclusions about the range of
choices the City faces regarding the
number of facilities that should be
provided in the next ten years.
To determine usage, more than 50 interest
groups, including the City recreation staff,
were surveyed to determine how many
participants they have in each program.
Total participation numbers (numbers of
times that someone used a facility) were
developed by the City Recreation
Division.
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policy Plan
4-6
'I he interest group surveys also included
information regarding perceived needs
and demands For additional facilities.
Staff involved with programming facilities
were also consulted.
Net cost to the City for providing facility
operations, maintenance and associated
programs was developed by staff of the
Facilities, Parks Maintenance and
Recreation divisions. The costs are the
expenses that the Citv incurs after all tees
and ether program -related income is
collected. The
costs were
reported per
user (or
individual) who
participates in a
program or uses
the facility. This
cost is the
amount that the
City subsidizes
an individual
over the course
of a year. The
costs are also
complete, as some cities did not have the
data !•eadily avai_able or in a Lorin that
coulc be translated into a direct
comparison. However, the data that vvas
obtained is useful in establishing what
level of service is being provided by cities
in thc- region and assisting the City of Fort
Collins in deciding where on the
spect! um it desires to be. A summarn of
the survey is contained in Appendix B.
The information ,vas sorted by facility
type n the following discussion,
('ityliac etba111eaXta•Xame
reported as a cost per use. This
is the amount that the City subsidizes
each time a facility is used.
The comparisons of the number of
facilities provided by communities along
the Front Range were developed by
interviewing staff at each of eight other
communities during the summer of 1995.
These included Castle Rock, Loveland,
Longmont, Thornton, Greeley,
Westminster, Boulder, Lakewood and
Colorado Springs. Not all data is
I. Gymnasiums
(Basketball
and
Volleyball)
The City
currently ovens 2
gymnasiums,
one at the
Northside
Aztlan
CommunitN
Center ( NACC)
and one at the
Senior Center.
Many City programs are also conducted at
schoo'.. gyms.
a. Participation Rates and Perceived
Needs
In 1994, the total rumber of times that
people participated in indoor basketball
and volleyball was approximately ho,000.
The total number of individual users was
estimated to be 10,375, including drop -in
use at NACC. The average number of
Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Policv Plan
4-7