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CC Resolution No. 2105 RESOLUTION NO. 2105 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS, ACCEPTING PLAYBOOK 2020 — THE STRATEGIC PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN; AND PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE THEREOF. *********************************************************************************** BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN,TEXAS: Section 1: That the City Council of the City of Baytown,Texas, hereby accepts the Playbook 2020—the Strategic Parks and Recreation Master Plan,which plan is on file in the Office of the City Clerk. Section 2: This resolution shall take effect immediately from and after its passage by the City Council of the City of Baytown. INTRODUCED, READ and PASSED by the affirmative vote o e City Council of the City of Baytown this the 23`d day of November,2010. ST HE NCARLOS, Mayor A 'R►P TOW A OkAkA, lerk CO APPR tF F � ORM: 6�54ACIO RAMIREZ, SR., City tt rney \\Cobsrv1\Iep1\Karen\Fi1es\City Council\Resolutions\2010\November 23WcceptPlaybook.doc • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • el: HALFF • • Playbook 2020 The Strategic Parks and Recreation Master Plan For the City of Baytown, Texas • • HALFF Imo • • October 25, 2010 • • City of Baytown Mr. Scott Johnson • Director of Parks and Recreation • 2407 Market Street • Baytown, Texas 77522-0424 • • Dear Mr. Johnson: • • Reference: Draft Parks and Recreation Master Plan Document • Half Associates, Inc. is pleased to submit the Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan for your • review and consideration. This document is the culmination of an extensive planning process involving • the elected officials, staff, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, and most importantly, the citizens of Baytown. The plan's recommendations encompass the many varied components of Baytown's park • system, from parks, athletic and aquatic facilities to trails, nature facilities, and the preservation of open • space. Our purpose has been to create a timeless document that represents the vision for the Parks • System over the next ten years. This document is intended to guide the Parks System, but also incorporates flexibility in responding to unique opportunities as they arise. • • We deeply appreciate the opportunity to have worked with you, your citizens, and your staff, and believe that this document will help guide Baytown as it creates one of the best park systems in the State of • Texas. • • Sincerely, • - Iff Associates, Inc. • • • Carrillo, A.S.L.A., A.I.C.P. • •- President, Director of Planning • • • • • • • !PHALFF • • • • • • • • Acknowledgements • The Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan was developed by the City of Baytown Parks and • Recreation Department with the technical assistance and design help of Half Associates. Special thanks go to the many residents, landowners, business owners, and community leaders for their insight • and support throughout the duration of this study. The following individuals are recognized for the • significant contributions to the preparation of the 2010 Park and Recreation Master Plan for Baytown. • • City Council • Stephen DonCarlos, Mayor Mercedes Renteria Ill, District 1 • Scott Sheley, District 2 • Brandon Capetillo, District 3 Terry Sain, District 4 • Lynn Caskey, District 5 • David McCartney, District 6 • • City Staff • Garry Brumback, City Manager • Bob Leiper, Deputy City Manager Kevin Troller, Assistant City Manager • • Parks and Recreation Advisory Board • Wayne Gray, Chairman Howard Hunt Kevin Jones • Agustin Laredo • Billy Barnett • Michelle Bitterly Carmen Torres • • Parks and Recreation Department Staff • Scott Johnson, Director • Kylie Wilson, Assistant Director Michael Flinn, Recreation Services Manager • Tracey Prothro, Superintendent of Natural Resource Programs • Dustin Schubert, Park Planner • Sarah Szymanski, Aquatics Coordinator • • • • it. HALFF • • • • • • • • Table of Contents • • • EXECUTIVE SUMMARY - PLAY BALL • • CHAPTER 1 - GET THE BALL ROLLING • Why is Quality of Life so Important? 1 Purpose of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan 2 • Role of the City of Baytown in Providing Recreation Opportunities 3 • Goals of the Baytown Parks System 4 • CHAPTER 2 - LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD • The History and Economy of Baytown 9 • Physical Geography of Baytown 12 • Demographic Profile of Baytown 13 Schools in Baytown 19 • Previous Planning Efforts 20 • CHAPTER 3 - WHERE WE PLAY TODAY • Purpose of the Existing Parks and Recreation Inventory 29 • Park Classification 30 • Size of the Parks System in Baytown 36 • CHAPTER 4 - TEAM: TOGETHER EVERYONE ACHIEVES MORE • Introduction to the Public Input Process 37 • Citywide Survey Results 38 • Intercept Surveys in Parks 43 Citywide Public Meeting/Open House 44 • Stakeholder Interviews 46 • CHAPTER 5 - A WHOLE NEW BALL GAME • Understanding Baytown's Parks and Recreation Needs 49 • Quantitative Assessement (Level of Service) 51 • Target Levels of Service 52 Demand Based Needs Assessment 82 • Resource Based Needs Assessment 85 • • • • • • dp HALFF • • • • • • • CHAPTER 6 - THE FRONT RUNNER • Why Plan for Trail in Baytown 89 Typical Trail Users 90 • Categories of Trail Types for Baytown 92 • Existing Trails in Baytown Today 96 • Opportuntieis for Trails in Baytown 98 Trail Priorities 102 • Specific Implementation Strategies for Trails in Baytown 108 • • CHAPTER 7 - KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE BALL • Philosophical Background for Recommendations 111 Recommendations by Category 113 • Land for Needed Parks - Acquistion Recommendations 114 • Recommendations to Address Indoor Recreation Needs 127 Baytown Nature Center, Wetlands Center & Open Space Recommendations 134 • Development of Additional Outdoor Recreation Facilities 141 • Outdoor Recreation Needs for Senior Citizens 145 • Aquatics Recommendations 146 • CHAPTER 8 - THE HOME STRETCH • Introduction 149 • Action Plan 154 • Funding Strategies for Recommendations 154 Policies and Ordinances 157 • Operation and Maintenance 158 • Conclusion - From Good to Great 160 • APPENDIX • Survey Results • Trail Plates • Inventory Tables • • • • • • • • • • p HALFF • • • • • • "Sport is where an entire life can be compressed into a few • • hours, where the emotions of a lifetime can be felt on an acre • • or two of ground, where a person can suffer and die and rise • • again on six miles of trails through a park. Sport is a theater • • where sinner can turn saint and a common man become an • • uncommon hero, where the past and the future can fuse with • • the present. Sport is singularly able to give us peak • • experiences where we feel completely one with the world and • • transcend all conflicts as we finally become our own potential." • • George A. Sheehan, author • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • HALFF :.► ,i /: iL • • rn x t a` Ne, t ; s,'. •3. • _ �a� -Cana.., jo ii I.' g"racr : sa-S • 1�'�91: .�► i � +r • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • d: iHALFF • • Executive Summary I Play Ball EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Parks and open space are one of the most visible elements of a city government at work, and can instill a strong sense of pride in the residents of a community. A great parks and recreation system lets both citizens and visitors know that the leadership of the City is interested in providing a high quality of life for its citizens. A strong parks and recreation system provides a healthier environment, improves the well being of children and young adults, and reduces the potential for crime in a city. The purpose of this Strategic Parks and Recreation Master Plan is to provide an assessment of the current system, to allow the citizens of Baytown the opportunity to directly voice their desires and concerns about parks and recreation, and to provide a set of recommended priorities that will guide city staff and elected officials over the next ten years in terms of parks and recreation in Baytown. "We all have dreams. But in order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self- discipline, and effort." Jesse Owens 4 time Olympic Gold Medalist • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • Goals of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan • The goals of the Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan were guided by "The Seven • Measures of an Excellent Parks System" from Peter Harnik's book The Excellent City Parks • System. Per Peter Harnik, the seven measures are: • 4. A Clear Expression of Purpose — a clear purpose for the system must be in place, • expressed through a mission statement and goals that define precisely what the • system is expected to provide. Baytown's park system should know who its target • market is, and focus on providing high quality facilities and programs. • • Ongoing Planning and Community Involvement — the excellent parks system has • a plan that it follows and updates periodically. It also involves its residents in the development of the plan and major decisions undertaken by the system. Baytown, • through this plan, is clearly committed to both short term and long term planning. • 1 Sufficient Assets in Land, Staffing, and Equipment to Meet the System's Goals • — the parks system must have adequate land, know how much parkland it has and • where, and have adequate operating funds and "a regular infusion of capital funds for major construction and repairs and land acquisition." • . Equitable Access — parks should be readily accessible, no matter where residents • live. Ten minutes on foot in dense areas and ten minutes apart by bicycle in • suburban areas is recommended by the author. Access in the older parts of Baytown • is very good, while many of the newer developing areas of the City are underserved. • 4. User Satisfaction — citizens should fully use the park facilities and be satisfied with • what they are provided with. Cities should record user ship, and should periodically query their residents to determine the level of resident satisfaction. The citizens of • Baytown, through ongoing input, appreciate the system, but would like to see it • expand as the population of the City grows. • Z Safety from Physical Hazards and Crime — park users should feel safe when they • use the facilities anywhere in the city. One facility residents consistently asked for was more lighting in parks. More lighting will increase the sense of safety in • Baytown's parks. • • Benefits for the City Beyond the Boundaries of the Parks System — the excellent • parks system clearly provides environmental, economic, health, and learning benefits • for its residents. • • • • • • • al• • BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • Executive Summary I Play Ball • The goals of the Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan are: • Goal 1: The Park System will be accessible. • • Goal 2: The System will be well funded, and will actively pursue partnership opportunities • Goal 3: The System will identify and focus first on "core" services • Goal 4: Parks in Baytown will be extraordinary and timeless • • Goal 5: Parks will be community focal points • Goal 6: The City will focus on connectivity and linkage • Goal 7: The City will value and preserve open space • • Goal 8: Detention and drainage will be used as a green opportunity • Goal 9: The System will focus on sustainability • Goal 10: The System will focus on reducing maintenance • • Summary of Baytown's Demographics • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • '; HALFF • • Baytown has experienced steady growth in the past several decades. This growth will continue throughout the lifetime of this Master Plan. Population projections were derived from the Texas Water Development Board, and show that growth is anticipated in the City. The Baytown Economic Development Strategies report concludes that eastern Harris County and Chambers County are prime areas for residential and commercial growth, indicating future growth in Baytown and surrounding areas. Furthermore, a significant amount of growth and development is occurring outside of the Baytown city limits but still within the ETJ, north of IH 10 and east of Cedar Bayou. Table E - 1 Projected Population for Baytown Year Projected Population Growth Rate 2000* 66,430 - 2009* 70,871 6.7% 2020** 75,379 6.4% 2030** 77,790 3.2% 2040** 80,123 3.0% Source: *U.S. Census Bureau **Pro'ection b Texas Water Development Board Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Age — When compared to the State of Texas, Baytown has a significantly younger population. In 2008, the median age of those living in Baytown was approximately 32.4 years, slightly lower than the median age for both Harris County (32.7) and Texas (33.2). Close to one-third of the population of Baytown is 20 years old or younger while less than 13% are 65 or older. The percent of the Baytown population that is age 25 to 64 is 52%. Age characteristics are shown in Table E — 2. Both area youth and older residents of the City are significant users of recreation facilities. The higher percentage of youth and young working families points to the need for active recreation facilities and programs. Table E - 2 Age Characteristics for Baytown & Texas Percent of Total Population Age Group Baytown 0-17 29.7% Texas 27.7% 18-24 9.3% 10.2% 25-44 29.8% 29.0% 45-64 18.4% 18.9% 65+ 12.7% 14.2% Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006-2008 American Community Survey 85+ 80-84 75-79 70-74 65-69 60-64 55-59 50-54 0 0 4549 U 40-44 Of 35-39 30-34 25-29 18-24 15-17 10-14 5-9 <5 years Population Pyramid for City of Baytown Based on 2008 Population Estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau -510 -4% -3% -2% -1% 0% Male Population Percent 1% 2% 3% Female Population 4% 5% • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • HALFF • • Executive Summary I Play Ball Employment Industry - The employment industry composition of Baytown is slightly different to that of Harris County and the State of Texas. The construction and manufacturing industries make up a larger share of employment in Baytown than the industries do in the county and state. Moreover, services such as finance, insurance, real estate, administrative, and professional and technical services is less prevalent in Baytown. A list of employment •obs b indust for Ba own, Harris Coun , and the State of Texas are listed below. Employment Table E by Baytown - 3 Industry Harris Co Texas Total % Total % Total % Total 33,535 1,890,375 11,027,630 Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and mining 623 1.9% 50,243 2.7% 319,490 2.9% Construction 4,711 14.0% 202,432 10.7% 1,016,566 9.2% Manufacturing 6,024 18.0% 204,159 10.8% 1,103,798 10.0% Wholesale trade 1,021 3.0% 78,560 4.2% 385,078 3.5% Retail trade 3,841 11.5% 201,119 10.6% 1,269,674 11.5% Transportation and warehousing, and utilities 1 870 5.6% 126,424 6.7% 635,147 5.8% Information 417 1.2% 31204 1.7% 251876 2.3% Finance and insurance, and real estate and rental and leasing 1,248 3.7% 123,652 6.5% 768,623 7.0% Professional, scientific, and management, and administrative and waste management services 3,242 9.7% 243,102 12.9% 1,149,316 10.4% Educational services, and health care and social assistance 5 869 ' 17.5% 327,604 17.3% 2,193,660 19.9% Arts, entertainment, and recreation, and accommodation and food services 2,203 6.6% 151,585 8.0% 900,219 8.2% Other services, except public administration 1 840 ' 5.5% 103,303 5.5% 569,986 5.2% Public administration 626 1.9% 46988 2.5% 464,197 4.2% Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006-2008 American Community Survey Higher than county/state Lower than county/state Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Summary of the Existing Parks System Currently the Baytown parks system includes 47 park sites and contains a total of 1,083.81 acres. Table E — 4 summarizes the existing park facilities. The tables on the following pages give a description of the different types of parks in Baytown. Table E — 4 The 2010 Parks System in Baytown Total Number of Parks 47 Total Acreage 1,083.81 Neighborhood Parks 23 parks totaling 88.15 acres Community Parks 11 parks totaling 296.78 acres Regional Parks 2 parks totaling 396.64 acres Special Purpose -Sports Complex 6 parks totaling 126.98 acres Open Space 5 parks totaling 117.28 acres Largest Developed Park Baytown Nature Center (452.52 acres) Smallest Developed Park Dale Street Park (0.17 acres) Developed vs. Undeveloped Parks 1,006.45 vs. 77.36 Additionally there are five (5) HOA parks and nine (9) county -owned parks within Baytown's City Limits and ETJ Limits. These non -city parks add 429.42 acres to the park system in Baytown. Summary of Public Input This Master Plan process included an extensive amount of public input, utilizing several methods. By using these methods of public input, feedback from many parts of the community were received, leading to a broader perspective on the direction that the Master Plan should take. Direct written citizen responses received during the park planning process total 1,478 residents in the City, or one out of every 48 residents. The multiple methods that were used to generate citizen input during the planning process include: Citywide mail -out survey Z Online survey Z Intercept surveys of actual park users throughout Baytown parks 11. Interviews with key stakeholders and city staff r alas a • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Roseland Park 41 % . Roseland Park 36% • J. Jenkins Park 28% 4w Jenkins Park 21% • 4 Nature Center 7% Nature Center 6% • • • Additional Amenities to Improve Parks — The following question asked the residents what • additional amenities or recreation features they would add to improve their favorite park. The results are listed below. Executive Summary I Play Ball • L Presentations to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board • 4 Citywide public meeting • • 4 Workshops with the City Council • • Favorite Park — One question on the surveys asked residents what their favorite park was in • Baytown. The results are listed below. • Mail -out Survey Online Survey • • Mail -out Survey • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 4,; HALFF • • . Trails ,I. Pavilions 41. Playground Online Survey 13% 4 Trails 15% 11 % 4 Playgrounds 11% 8% Z Swimming pool 10% Baytown residents attending open house of Parks and Recreation Master Plan recommendations in April, 2010 Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan [4 Most Important Facility to Add — Residents were given a list of several different recreational facilities. They were asked to rate how important or unimportant each one was to them. They were then asked to name the top three facilities that they feel are the most important for the City to provide. The top five results are listed below. Mail -out Survey Online Survey 1 Trails 32% 1 More lighting in parks 15% 1 Teen center 28% 1 Playgrounds 8% 1 More lighting in parks 27% J. Community gardens 8% 1 Indoor recreation center 26% 1 Fishing piers 7% 1 Playgrounds 21% 1 Fitness classes 7% Summary of Parks System Needs Assessment Residents of Baytown have clearly established that recreation is important to them, and that they appreciate the opportunities for engaging in recreational activities that exist in the City today. More importantly, the way we recreate is rapidly changing. Baytown's population is increasing and at the same time evolving. Both young and old residents of the City have new recreation challenges. New trends in technology, as well as increasing time demands and a large variety of activities, are constantly vying for our time which is challenging the way we play and relax. The needs assessment will help recognize both basic and new needs, and will help Baytown embrace and be ready for those recreational changes. The needs assessment is both quantitative and qualitative. A variety of different inputs and techniques are used in evaluating Baytown's current and future park needs. Generally, three methodologies were included in the needs assessment analysis, and include: Level of Service -based Assessment — uses locally developed level of service ratios of facilities to population so as to project where the City is today and where it might be in the future as the population grows; 1 Demand -based Assessment — using actual and/or anticipated usage growth data, as well as citizen input on the types of activities they would like to engage in, to determine which facilities and programs are most in demand; 1 Resource -based Assessment — recognizes that Baytown has many unique physical features, and explores how to convert these into recreation or open space assets that • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYTOWN • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • f= HALFF • • Executive Summary I Play Ball help meet the demand for recreation in the City. Examples of potential physical resources in Baytown include the coastal bays, bayous, and creeks. Table E-5 summarizes the key spatial needs for the next ten years in Baytown. Table E — 5 Summa of Park Spatial Needs Neighborhood Parks Existing Level of Service — 2.2 acres per 1,000 residents Target Level of Service — 2.0 acres per 1,000 residents Key Action — monitor and require development of neighborhood parks as new areas are developed Community Parks Existing Level of Service — 3.7 acres per 1,000 residents Target Level of Service — 5.0 acres per 1,000 residents Key Action — proactive long range land acquisition or dedication Linear Parks No specific level of service established Open Space Existing Level of Service — 7.23 acres per 1,000 residents Target Level of Service — 10 to 15 acres per 1,000 residents Key Action — active and proactive preservation in partnership with land owners or dedication Regional Parks No specific level of service established Key Action — partner with other cities and counties to 'ointl develo• laver .arks Overall Park Spatial Needs Existing Level of Service —14.5 acres per 1,000 residents (City owned parks only) 20.58 acres per 1,000 residents (all area parks) Target Level of Service — 22 acres per 1,000 residents Existing amount of acres is adequate, but distribution is lacking in some areas of the City, especially east of Cedar Bayou and in ETJ areas north of IH 10 The City should plan for neighborhood parks in all new residential developments. 4, Adopt a Parkland Dedication Ordinance to assist in acquiring and developing future nei hborhood •arkland. A. Existing LOS is 83% of the target level of service. Ile Deficit of 81+/- acres by 2020. Pursue acquisition of land for community parks north of IH-10 and east of Cedar Bayou. elle Preserve/acquire and develop linear parks alone creeks and ba ou corridors. i Open space largely concentrated at the Nature Center and along Goose Creek. Additional preservation needed along Cedar Bayou and waterfront areas of the City. 4. Open space preserves can be privately owned. The largest need for future parkland is in the form of open space. Z Regional parks needed north of IH 10 and east of Cedar Bayou. yl Because the City is spread out over a large area, access to parkland is the key need. 46 Areas north of Lynchburg -Cedar Bayou Road and east of Cedar Bayou have significant parkland needs. ACID. Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Target levels of service are not set for regional parks since they are typically developed with other cities, counties, or state entities, and address the needs of a broader region. Linear parks are developed as opportunities occur; and therefore, are not limited by a target level of service. Parkland Dedication is typically not used for regional parks since the nexus between the dedicated funds and actual use of the park is not as strong. Table E — 6 summarizes facility needs throughout the City. Facility Table E — 6 Summary of City of Baytown Facility Needs Current LOS Current 2020 Need Based on Amount Population Level of Need Baseball Fields 5,060 14 15 Medium Basketball Courts 2,835 25 21.5 Medium Boat Ramps 11,810 6 8 High Disc Golf Course None 0 3 High Dog Park 1 per City 1 2-3 Medium Fishing Pier 5,905 12 13 Medium Pavilion Shelters 535 132 125 High Picnic Facilities Vanes Varies Vanes High Playscapes 2,445 29 38 Medium Practice Backstops 3,220 22 25 Medium Rental Facilities (within parks) 11,810 6 7 Medium Sand Volleyball Courts 23,625 3 7 High Skate Park 35,435 2 1 — 2 Medium Soccer Fields 6,445 11 10 Low Softball Fields 8,860 8 13 Medium Spraygrounds 35,435 2 5 High Aquatic Facilities 35,435 2 2 Low Support Facilities Varies Varies Vanes High Tennis Courts 8,860 8 10 Medium Trails (in miles) 9,940 7.13 10.1 High Summary of Recommendations The parks and recreation needs of Baytown are described in Chapter 7 of this Master Plan. The action plan consists of recommendations to guide the Baytown Parks and Recreation Department staff and the City Council over the next five to ten years, and should be revisited and updated on a regular basis. Prioritization Criteria — the recommended prioritization is based on information received from public input, as well as from the needs assessment formed from facility and acreage • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYIYIWN • • • • • • Executive Summary I Play Ball • standards, as well as the existing condition of facilities. A summary of key priorities are shown • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • o; HALFF • • in Table E - 7. Table E-7 Summary of Priority Needs in Baytown Additional facilities needed based on mail - out survey results 1. Trails 2. Teen center for teen activities 3. More lighting in parks 4. Indoor recreation center 5. Playgrounds Additional facilities needed based on level of service 1. Disc golf course 2. Spraygrounds/splash pads 3. Trails 4. Sand volleyball courts 5. Boat ramps Additional facilities needed based on online survey results 1. More lighting in parks 2. Playgrounds 3. Community gardens 4. Fishing piers 5. Fitness classes Additional facilities needed/renovated based on existing condition 1. Soccer fields 2. Basketball courts 3. Support facilities 4. Playgrounds 5. Picnic facilities Top 10 Cumulative Outdoor Facility Needs Based on Above Summaries 1. Trails 2. Aquatic facilities/spraygrounds 3. Practice facilities for baseball/softball and soccer 4. Picnic areas and shade shelters 5. Preservation of open space and natural areas 6. Community gardens/public art 7. Fishing piers (some lighted) 8. Playgrounds 9. Camp grounds 10. Outdoor classroom/amphitheater Top 6 Cumulative Indoor Facility Needs 1. Gymnasium 2. Fitness/cardio/weight training facilities 3. Multipurpose classrooms 4. Rental facilities for family events 5. Multi -generational facility for adults and seniors 6. Facility for teens Needs meeting all of the criteria were ranked as very high priority elements and are to receive the highest level of attention over the next five to ten years. The top fifteen actions to be undertaken over the next ten years that the City of Baytown should accomplish are as follows (in general order of highest priority): 1. Develop new parkland in the north and east sectors of the City to address the need for additional parkland in growth areas of the City. Expand Jenkins and Hollaway parks to add much needed parkland in this sector of the City, especially as Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan growth continues both within and outside of the City limits of Baytown. Accomplish this goal within the next two years. 2. Develop 5 to 10 Miles of Trails over the next decade - Trails were consistently ranked as a top priority by residents during the public input process. Baytown has a current ratio of approximately one mile of trail for every 10,000 residents. Trails should be constructed for walkers, runners, and bicyclists. Trail development has become a means of alternative transportation throughout the nation. Providing a citywide, interconnected trail system will allow residents to commute throughout all of Baytown either by bike or on foot. Trails all over the City will allow residents to have a nearby place to walk or run for fun or to improve their fitness. Set a goal of developing one new mile of trail every year for the next ten years, so that the City has a ratio that is closer to one mile of trail for every 5,000 residents by the year 2020. Many of these trails are also included in other goals in this plan. Key trails to focus on include a northern extension of the Goose Creek trail, new trails along Cedar Bayou, and most importantly, trails along the Tabbs Bay waterfront. These are the key components of a citywide "spine" system. 3. Preserve natural areas along upper Goose Creek, Cedar Bayou and other drainage ways and natural areas throughout Baytown — Preservation of lands along the major natural waterways in Baytown is vital. Outright acquisition is one option for preservation. Preservation can also take the form of agreements with property owners to limit development in floodplain or floodway zones directly adjacent to the waterways, and to preserve the existing vegetation and tree cover along the waterways. Work to preserve at least 50% of the remaining undeveloped frontage within five years. 4. Enhance the Baytown Nature Center — the Nature Center and Wetlands Center are excellent facilities that rival those in much larger communities. However, they need to continue to be enhanced so that they can serve as significant attractors. Both facilities need to be considered as premier attractions to Baytown, and the environment, appearance and enhancements at both need to be considered at that level. 5. Develop initial three to five splash pads/spraygrounds throughout the City — to complete the recommendations of the Aquatics Master Plan, develop splash pads/spraygrounds at a) Jenkins Park (for the fast growing Northeast and North sectors of the City), b) Bergeron Park (for the southwest neighborhoods), c) McElroy Park (for the western neighborhoods of the City), d) Pelly Park or enhance existing sprayground at Roseland Park (for the • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •• • • BAYT WN • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • fp HALFF • • Executive Summary I Play Ball central neighborhoods of Baytown), e) Downtown splash deck (to help spur development). Develop all within five years. 6. Develop a major lighted pierlremove hazardous old pilings and debris/ develop trail and linear park along the waterfront in Baytown — an area location for nighttime fishing was an item frequently mentioned by residents of the City. Develop a pier along the Tabbs Bay waterfront as a key attraction to Baytown and as a catalyst for redevelopment of the area. Incorporate trails and node parks as components of this area. Urgently remove hazardous old pilings and submerged debris along the Tabbs Bay water front. Address the need for this facility within the next four to six years. • • • • • • • 7. Create practice and game fields at East Little League/Ward Road Site in east Baytown — the Ward Road property is currently under an agreement with East Little League where they are responsible for maintaining the property. In partnership with the little league leadership, develop higher quality practice facilities on this property. Include some neighborhood park amenities. Redevelop this site within the next five years. 8. Acquire land for future parks in the north and eastern sectors of the City — Growth in Baytown is occurring to the east and north of the City, largely outside of the City limits. These areas will eventually be incorporated into the City, and will have significant needs for larger parks. Baytown should begin to identify potential lands for acquisition and program funds to secure these park sites. Identify and secure properties within the next five years. 9. Provide increased water access to Upper Goose Creek and Cedar Bayou — Develop additional node access points to these waterways in Baytown. Encourage use by promoting both motorized (where allowed) and non -motorized kayak and canoe access. Acquire and develop three to four new access points within five years. 10. Renovate Baytown Soccer Complex — while not the premier soccer complex in the area, soccer is a growth sport, and the Baytown Soccer Complex should be enhanced to provide a high quality location for the sport in the City. Renovate the park within the next three to five years. 11. Plan for and construct a State -of -the -Art Indoor Recreation Center - Baytown currently lacks a City -operated attractive indoor recreation center that can be used for fitness, exercise, and programming. The proposed indoor recreation center would range from 45,000 to 70,000 square feet in size. It could offer amenities such as gymnasiums for basketball and volleyball, fitness and cardio equipment room, indoor walking track, meeting rooms, arts and crafts room, dance studio, locker and changing rooms, racquetball courts, climbing wall, and multi purpose rooms for programs. This is intended to be a multi -generational facility, and should also have programs and space specifically marketed towards seniors and teens. A potential • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • future phase that includes an indoor aquatic component for lap swimming should be • developed as the plan for the Center is created. • As part of the plan for indoor recreation, include funding for enhancements to the • Baytown Community Center so that it continues to function as part of the indoor recreation palette in the City. • • • • • 12. Develop Unidad Park as Baytown's "Action" Park — Add • facilities for active sports to Unidad Park, including covered • basketball, quick soccer/in-line hockey, sand volleyball, additional • skatepark facilities and BMX bike facilities. Develop this action park within the next four to six years. • 13. Create a "Central Park" for Baytown by linking existing parks • in the center of the City together. Use landscaping, signs, • banners, trails, similar benches and furnishings, as well as • easements from existing properties where necessary to link parks • together into one centrally themed area that can become Baytown's major park. Create the framework for this park within the • next four to six years. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • S • • Conduct a detailed feasibility study to determine how best to partner to develop the Center, how to fund and operate it, what it should contain and where best to place it. Such a study is projected to range in cost from $75,000 to $100,000. Conduct the feasibility study within two to three years. Fund and develop the Center within ten years. 14. Enhance New Neighborhood Parks in Developing Areas - As the population of Baytown grows, ordinances that promote the development of neighborhood parks in new residential communities will be vital. Future neighborhood parks should be in central locations in those neighborhoods, should be at least two acres in size, and should include features such as additional shade pavilions, picnic tables, walking trails, playgrounds with shade, and open space play areas. Work to create ordinance structures that ensure that those parks are part of new developments. Accomplish this within one year so that new growth includes these parks. 15. Enhance the historic buildings site at the Republic of Texas Plaza. Assign sites for future additions, and create landscaping, fencing, lighting and signage strategies that unify the historic structures and celebrate their place in Baytown. Accomplish this goal within one to three years. Key Recommendations - 2010 to ; Priority Action ID 1 Actives and Develop new parkland irces, sectors of the City (to adligation, additional parkland in thesrk City) 2 Very High Develop Goose Creek vices, the Wayne Gray Sports ligation, Bay (10' wide all weather rk Very High 3 Very High 4 Very High 5 Very High 6 Preserve natural areas aces, Creek, Cedar Bayou andligation, where available (acquire rk donation or as floodplain F preservation by private ovt Enhance the Baytown Nces, trails, interpretive featuresligation, restoration, educational cErk includes building) Develop initial three to fhs, in -kind pads/spraygrounds throates of (develop initial sites at Beg rights, Parks) High Develop downtown and ces, 7 connections to existing ligation, to 4 segments) rk High Create practice and gamces, Park in east Baytown ligation, rk Estimated Total Cost - Very High and High Priority It participation. donations and grants may fund portio, Additional Potential Time Staffing Needs (1) Frame 1/2 person (maintenance) 2010-2012 1/2 person (maintenance) 2010-2015 none immediately 2010-2015 and beyond as opportunities occur 1 to 2 maintenance personnnel 2010-2020 (in phases over 10 year period) 1/2 person (periodic equipment maintenance) 2010-2015 1 to 2 maintenance personnnel 2010-2020 1/2 maintenance 2010-2015 personnel, significant maintenance by little lea ue Halff Associates Inc. September 2010 - Page 1 of 2 �k 2020 Ition Master Plan for Baytown 010 - 2020 Range (1) Type of High Range Action $3,000,000 Acquisition and Development $1,500,000 Acquisition and Development $1,000,000 Acquisition $500,000 Development $400,000 Development $16,000,000 Acquisition and Development $750,000 Development $1,500,000 Development $0 Development $250,000 Development $24,900,000 Potential Funding Mechanisms and Sources Bonds, private donations, in -kind services, TPWD grant funding, certificates of obligation, general fund, sale of naming rights, park development fees Bonds, private donations, in -kind services, TPWD grant funding, certificates of obligation, general fund, sale of naming rights, park development fees Bonds, private donations, in -kind services, TPWD grant funding, certificates of obligation, general fund, sale of naming rights, park development fees Bonds, private donations, in -kind services, TPWD grant funding, certificates of obligation, general fund, sale of naming rights, park development fees Bonds, private donations, in -kind services, TPWD grant funding, certificates of obligation, general fund, sale of naming rights, park development fees Bonds, private donations, in -kind services, TPWD grant funding, certificates of obligation, general fund, sale of naming rights, park development fees Bonds, private donations, in -kind services, TPWD grant funding, certificates of obligation, general fund, sale of naming rights, park development fees Bonds, private donations, in -kind services, TPWD grant funding, certificates of obligation, general fund, sale of naming rights, park development fees Bonds, private donations, in -kind services, TPWD grant funding, certificates of obligation, general fund, sale of naming rights, park development fees Bonds, private donations, in -kind services, TPWD grant funding, certificates of obligation, general fund, sale of naming rights, park development fees may be implemented. Grants and donations may reduce the cost of each item. Additional Potential Time Staffing Needs (1) Frame 1 maintenance personnel 2015 - 2020 1 maintenance person 2015 to 2020 (if pier is unmanned and with no charge) None immediately 2010-2015 and beyond as opportunities occur None additional • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 2015 to 2020 and • beyond None additional 2015-2020 6 to 10 FTE's (Full-time supervisor, front desk attendants, maintenance crew, part- time or contract program instructors) 2010-2020 1 maintenance personnel 2015 to 2020 and beyond 1 maintenance personnel 2015 to 2020 and beyond 1 maintenance personnel None required As needed by growth • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 2015 to 2020 and • beyond • • • • • Halff Associates Inc. • September 2010 - Page 2 of 2 • • • • • • • • 0 o • • • • • • • • • \* • • • ;.t • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • What makes a city a great place to live in? Why are some areas so popular and desired, while • others are not as highly sought after? What are the amenities that contribute to a high level of • satisfaction among the residents of that place? Climate, the area's physical characteristics, the people, satisfaction with employment, and cultural and entertainment attractions all add to • this equation. But most often, it is what a community makes of what it has and what it does • with its physical environment that transforms it into a special place to live. It is both the little things, such as that beautiful tree in a neighbor's yard, as well as the larger things, such as • access to shopping centers or fun and attractive parks. It is the quality of those places and • their uniqueness that makes a city like Baytown memorable. • We all recognize that the quality of our lives is enhanced by the qualities of the place we live. • In turn, that quality of life is reflected in greater economic returns and a great sense of • optimism about that place. • Community leaders and the municipal government of Baytown have chosen to make Baytown the premier place to live in the southeast Houston area. They recognize the great challenges • that come with this goal, but also recognize the great benefits in creating high standards and Chapter 1 I Get the Ball Rolling CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION • • • • Why is Quality of Life so Important? • �'„ HALFF • "Success is where preparation and opportunity meet." Bobby Unser Former automobile racer • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan then striving to achieve them. Baytown already has much that other area cities are still striving to obtain, and has the community desire to become a great place to live. A strong park system and many recreation choices are an important part of the quality of life in a community such as Baytown. Parks are visible reminders of the quality of a community — they remind us everyday about what is attractive and fun in our city; and whether or not it is a great place to live and work. "The right of children to play, to sing, and to dance; the right of youth to sport for sport's sake; the right of men and women to use leisure in the pursuit of happiness in their own way, are basic to our American heritage." -Harry S. Truman This Master Plan assesses what is great about community life, parks and recreation opportunities in Baytown, and what should be done to fill key needs to make the City an even better place to live. It is an ambitious plan, but one that can be tackled by all who live in Baytown in readily achievable steps. It is a plan that can help transform Baytown into a great place to live and work. This document is the culmination of the park planning effort, and is intended to guide the staff and elected officials of the City as they decide how best to meet and prioritize the recreation needs of Baytown over the next ten years. Purpose of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan This master plan updates the 2001 Parks and Recreation Master Plan, including goals and priorities, and provides an assessment of Baytown's Park and Recreation system in the year 2010. The park planning process allows the citizens of Baytown to determine what their preferred park and recreation priorities should be. This plan: Points out deficiencies in the system and recommends alternatives to address and correct those deficiencies; 4. Looks at the potential growth of the City over the next 5 to 10 years, and assesses where additional facilities will be needed as the City grows, as well as what types of facilities are most needed; 4 Guides city staff in acquiring land to meet current and future park and open space needs; 4. Prioritizes key recommendations of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan so that the most significant deficiencies are addressed as quickly as possible; Is intended to guide city staff and city leaders in determining where and how parks funding should be allocated over the next five years. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYTOWN • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • HALFF • • Chapter 1 I Get the Ball Rolling Role of the City of Baytown in Providing Recreation Opportunities Baytown is the primary governmental entity charged with providing recreational facilities for the citizens of Baytown. Ancillary recreational facilities are provided by the Goose Creek Consolidated School District on many school campuses, HOA parks, and Harris County. Components of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan 1. Introduction Purpose of the Parks Master Plan Planning and Implementation Entity Goals of the Master Plan 2. Baytown Today A History of Baytown Baytown's Economy Today A Demographic Profile of Baytown 3. Existing Parks System I 4. Public Input Utilization & Opinions from Citizen Survey Community Meeting Student Survey 5. Needs Assessment Methods of Assessment Standard Based Needs Demand Based Needs Resource Based Needs 6. Master Plan Recommendations Land Acquisition Recreational Facilities Trails 7. Implementation Plan Implementation Strategies Funding Strategies Plan Updates Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Parks and Recreation Advisory Board iplNor Plan Timeframe and Updating The Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan is formulated to address the timeframe from the year 2010 through 2020. Plan Timeframe — Many of the recommendations of the plan are valid for a period of up to ten years, but should be reassessed periodically. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department planning standards recommend that a Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Master Plan should be completely updated after a ten year period, or before if any major developments occur that significantly alter the recreation needs of the City. Periodic Review of the Plan — The following steps are recommended for periodic review of this Master Plan: 1 An annual review workshop by the Baytown Parks and Recreation Department staff should be conducted to review progress and successes. 1 The updates will be reviewed by the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, and Baytown City Council. More frequent updates may be required if special needs or occurrences require modifications to the plan. . In all cases, public involvement through citizen meetings, interviews, and workshops will be included in any updating process. Goals of the Baytown Parks System Why goals are important — Goals are an important part of the park planning process. They provide the underlying philosophical framework for decisions and also guide decision makers on issues. The goals expressed in this master plan reflect the desires of the citizens, elected officials, and staff of Baytown, and are a key part of the Master Plan. Goals provide the underlying philosophical framework for decisions and also guide decision makers on issues. How goals are developed - These goals are based on input received from the citizen survey, during stakeholder interviews, and meetings with the Parks and Recreation Department, city management staff, and the City Council of Baytown. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • �s • • • • • • • • The goals of the Strategic Parks and Recreation Master Plan are as follows: • Goal 1: the Park System will be accessible. Chapter 1 I Get the Ball Rolling • . The Parks system will provide adequate parks - The City will work towards providing • parks, trails, and open spaces in an adequate amount in all parts of Baytown. • 4 Facilities will be well distributed to provide equitable access - Parks will be located • so that every citizen of Baytown has close access to a park. In the near future, no one in • Baytown will live further than one-half mile from a park, and ideally most residents will be within one -quarter mile from a park, green space or trail access point. • • . In newly developing parts of the City, adequate parkland will be allocated from the beginning of development, so that the target levels of service of this plan are met. • • • • • HALFF • • • •4. A balanced parks system will be provided - A variety of park sizes and facility types will be readily available. The parks system will work towards providing a mix of small and • large parks, trails, open spaces, and indoor recreation facilities. The system will work • towards meeting parks, trails and open space goals. Appropriate steps will be initiated to come closer to the facility and service goals of this plan. • • Goal 2: the System will be Well Funded, and will Actively Pursue Partnership Opportunities • • ▪ • The Parks System will be adequately funded - The parks system will be funded to a level that corresponds to its importance to the citizens of Baytown. It will be encouraged • to flourish. • The Parks system will use all available land resources - Every land resource in the • City will be considered for its potential as a park or open space resource. Schools and • drainage land should be considered in the overall parks equation of the City. • 16. School Parks must be a vital part of the parks system - Parks adjacent to elementary • or secondary school sites are a vital resource for the citizens of Baytown. • Goal 3: the System will Identify and Focus First on "Core" Services • 4. The Department will focus on providing basic services that serve a significant • portion of the population. These will be measured against five desired outcomes; • Z Livability of the Community — Provides diverse recreational opportunities and • experiences for all citizens of Baytown. • II. Health - Provides opportunities to improve the health of the citizens of Baytown. • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • 1 Youth — Provides learning and recreational experiences for the youth of • Baytown. • 1 Revenue — Provides opportunities for revenue, but only if not at the expense of • the other desired outcomes. • Outdoors — Provides opportunities to experience the outdoors in many different • ways. • Goal 4: Parks in Baytown will be Extraordinary and Timeless • 1 The parks of Baytown will express the natural beauty and cultural diversity of • Baytown — The parks should look like they belong in Baytown by incorporating Baytown's • unique culture, history, and the waterfront beauty of the bays. • Create extraordinary parks — Resolve to create parks that are unusual and that stand • out. • 1 Express the Character of Baytown — The entire park system, with its land and buildings, • should be one of the most visible character creating features of the City. • 1 Use materials that fit in — Develop parks that represent the natural beauty of the coastal • bays, and that fit in with the scenery of the area. • 1 Native materials — Use materials that are native to the area and that are already • commonly used, such as rocks, shrubs, and trees. • 4 Strong, distinctive appearance for park buildings — Use architectural features as the • focal points of parks. Use strong architectural statements that draw attention to the parks. • Goal 5: Parks will be Community Focal Points • 1 Parks as focal points of the Community - Place parks so that they become readily • visible focal points of the community around them. Frank C. Murdock Park is an excellent • example — it is central to the neighborhood around it, and is readily accessible via foot. Encourage the development community to think of parks in this manner, and where • necessary, develop ordinances that force that consideration. • 1 Think of parks as a mini -oasis - Treat parks as lush areas within the coastal • environment, but note that only a portion of each park has to have that feeling. The • strong juxtaposition of lush and and can create an enormously powerful image. • • • • • • • - .. BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • • Chapter 1 I Get the Ball Rolling • Goal 6: the City will Focus on Connectivity and Linkage • 4. Trails and linear parks will equally focus on connectivity and leisure uses - The trail • system will actually link a variety of uses, especially neighborhoods to area school, parks, local retail, centers of government, and indoor recreation. • • 4. Trails and linear parks will be a vital part of the parks system - A major system of linear parks and trails should be extended, so that the goal of one day linking all parts of • the City via scenic parkways and linear parks can be achieved. • Goal 7: the City will Value and Preserve Open Space • • Open Spaces - Make the preservation of open space within the City a high priority in the future. Set a goal of having three times more undeveloped in -city open space within the • next 10 to 20 years. • L Use drainage as opportunities to "create" open space - Drainage channels are • opportunities for greenbelts that connect areas of the City. Build streets alongside them • and add trees to create linear parkways. • Goal 8: Detention and Drainage will be used as a Green Opportunity • 4. Treat drainage ponds and detention basins as mini parks or green areas - Plant • vegetation around detention basins to convert them into attractive open space. • . Avoid deep detention unless critical - In the future, avoid deep detention basins except • on a regional scale. Use natural basins as potential large parks. • Goal 9: the System will focus on Sustainability • • 41. Convert portions of existing parks into more natural and native designs — Focus on lowering water consumption. • • . Incorporate energy and sustainable features into all buildings and parks in the future — Include sustainability features that emphasize sustainability if efficiency savings • can be demonstrated over time. Goal 10: The System will focus on Reducing Maintenance • • .L Use cost effective maintenance techniques — Water usage, equipment, and staff allocations will all be designed to promote the most efficient maintenance of park facilities, • while maintaining parks in the best manner possible. • y Design facilities to reduce maintenance — All park facilities will be designed to reduce • the amount of maintenance that they require. • • • • il" HALFF • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Seven Measures of an Excellent Parks System (from "The Excellent City Parks System" by Peter Harnik) A Clear Expression of Purpose - a clear purpose for the system must be in place. expressed through a mission statement and goals that define precisely what the system is expected to provide. Baytown's parks system must clearly identify who its target market is, and must continue to push for a return to providing "core services." Ongoing Planning and Community Involvement - the excellent parks system has a plan that it follows and updates periodically. It also involves its residents in the development of the plan and major decisions undertaken by the system. Baytown, through this plan, is clearly committed to both short term and long term planning. Sufficient Assets in Land, staffing, and equipment to meet the system's goals - the Parks System must have adequate land. know how much parkland it has and where, have adequate operating funds. and have "a regular infusion of capital funds for major construction, repairs and land acquisition." Equitable access - parks should be readily accessible, no matter where residents live. Ten minutes on foot in dense areas and 10 minutes apart by bicycle in suburban areas is recommended by the author. Access for persons with different disabilities or for residents that cannot afford the full cost should also be provided. Access in many parts of the city is vital. User satisfaction - citizens should fully use the park facilities and be satisfied with what they are provided with. Cities should record usership. and should periodically query their residents to determine the level of resident satisfaction. The citizens of Baytown, through ongoing input, appreciate the system they have, but would like to see it continue to expand. Safety from physical hazards and crime - park users should feel safe when they use the facilities anywhere in the City. Baytown should seek to increase the safety of the parks throughout the entire City. Benefits for the City beyond the boundaries of the parks system - the excellent parks system clearly provides environmental. economic. health and learning benefits for its residents. Residents of Baytown have long recognized the great benefits of an excellent park system, and are now calling for the resources to allow the system to flourish. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • �_r - CHAPTER 2 LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD Baytown's Past and Future • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Chapter 2 I Level the Playing Field CHAPTER 2 - BAYTOWN'S PAST AND FUTURE Introduction • • The 2010 Parks and Recreation Master Plan should build upon the best features of Baytown. • It should enhance what Baytown is, how it came to be, and what the citizens of Baytown want their city to be, rather than trying to make it something that it is not. Understanding the context • of the City is a key part of the parks and recreation planning process. • Both the physical and the demographic makeup of the City help determine the current and • future park and recreation needs of its citizens. This chapter summarizes the current context • of Baytown in the year 2010, including the history of Baytown, the demographic and population aspects of the citizens of the community, and the physical characteristics of the City. • • • The History and Economy of Baytown (Adapted from the 2025 Comprehensive Plan) • • • • • • I' HALFF • 1Cloilli°H1H' • Baytown is located along the Houston Ship Channel in eastern Harris County, with portions of the City extending into Chambers County. The City has a total area of approximately 34 square miles. History of inhabitants of Baytown can be traced back to early European settlers in the 1500s. The proximity to water, both as a resource as well as a means of transportation, sustained settlements along the San Jacinto River and coastal areas. In 1916, offshore drilling "Fishing is much more than fish. It is the great occasion when we may return to the fine simplicity of our forefathers." Herbert Hoover 31s, US President "...the area still struggles at times with its identity and cohesiveness because it lacks an obvious community center and focal point." -2025 Comprehensive Plan. p. 2-2 • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • operations began, leading to the development of the Houston Ship Channel and growth of the • area. • The formal City of Baytown was created through consolidation of the former "Tri Cities" — Pelly, • Goose Creek, and unincorporated Baytown. In 1945, the Town of Pelly annexed the unincorporated Baytown community, and in 1947, the citizens of Pelly and Goose Creek voted • to consolidate their towns. In January 1948, the residents of the consolidated city voted to • name the new city "Baytown." However, this segregated and piecemeal history has led to a • lack of identity and clear community center that Baytown still struggles with half a century later. Because of its dependence on oil for its economic base, Baytown is constantly impacted by • the ups and downs of the energy industry. During and following World War II, demand for oil • boomed, as did Baytown. Population nearly doubled between 1950 and 1970. However, the • oil embargo of the early 1970s and other global trends such as the environmental movement • that has grown since the 1980s have disrupted Baytown's economic base. While population has continued to grow, the City faced new challenges such as vacant buildings and declining • conditions in neighborhoods. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ta• • BAYTOWN • S • • Growth in Baytown continues at a steadier rate, driven primarily by its location and cost of living. Today the major employers of Baytown still include oil companies such as ExxonMobil, Chevron Chemical, and Chevron/Phillips. Other major employers are the Goose Creek CISD, San Jacinto Methodist Hospital, and BayCoast Medical Center, Bayer Corporation. ExxonMobil is a major employer in the City of Baytown. Image source: ExxonMobil ha • ter 2 I Level the Playing Fiel . Li. LL -J • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • s • • • oft • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan 12 • • • • Physical Geography of Baytown • Baytown is located in the Coastal Plains of Texas on the • northern shore of Galveston Bay, where the Houston Ship • Channel empties into Galveston Bay. The Houston Ship • Channel and its various lakes and bayous greatly define • Baytown's geography, where approximately a half square mile of the City's area is water. Vegetation is primarily grassland and marshes, restricting development on much of the land, but • also presenting an opportunity for preservation. • Climate of Baytown • Being located on the coast of Galveston Bay, Baytown's climate • is classified as humid subtropical. Summers are warm with an • average daily temperature in the low '90s. Gulf winds keep cold • weather to the north and the winters are mild, with daily high temperatures averaging 65 degrees. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Chapter 2 I Level the Playing Field Demographic Profile of Baytown Understanding the current and future size and characteristics of the population to be served is a key part of the park and recreation master planning process. Demographic characteristics and projected populations contained in this section are derived from the U.S. Census, the Texas Water Development Board, and the 2003 Water and Wastewater Master Plan. The population projections shown are approximate, but they do indicate the general size of the service area population and the number of facilities to be provided. Historic Population Growth • In 2008, the Houston -Sugar Land -Baytown metro area was • the fifth largest metro area in the nation.' As a suburb of the • greater Houston area, the growth of the metro area • impacts the growth of the City of • Baytown. Table 2-1 illustrates the population growth of • Baytown and Hams County • since 1950. Today, Baytown is the sixth largest city in the 13- • county Houston -Galveston Area. • Table 2-2 on the following page • illustrates future population projections prepared by the • Texas Water Development • Board. • • • • • • • • • • • • • IL HALFF • Table 2 -1 Population Growth for Baytown and Harris County Year Cit of Ba town Population Annual Growth Rate Harris Count Population City Share of County Growth 1950 22,933 - 806,701 - 1960 28,159 2.1% 1,243,158 1.2% 1970 49,980 4.6% 1,741,912 3.2% 1980 56,923 2.6% 2,409,547 1.9% 1990 63,850 1.2% 2,818,199 1.7% 2000 66,430 0.4% 3,400,578 0.4% 2009 70,871 0.8% 3,984,349 0.8% Source: U.S. Census Bureau 80,000 70,000 60,000 50,000 0 m 40,000 a a. 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 1950 Historic Population Growth in Baytown 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2008 —City of Baytown Population —City Share of County Growth Rate 3.5% 3.0% 2.5 2.0% t a, w 1.5% u ar a 1.0% 0.5% 0.0% • • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • Projected Population Growth • • The population projections for the City of Baytown were derived from the Texas Water • Development Board. The projections indicate the growth anticipated in the City, and should be • updated as more accurate projections become available. Population projections are shown in Table 2-2. • The Baytown Economic Development Strategies report concludes that eastern Harris and Chambers County are prime areas for residential and commercial growth, indicating future growth in Baytown and surrounding areas. Furthermore, a significant amount of growth and development is occurring outside of the Baytown city limits, north of IH-10 and east of Cedar Bayou. The Economic Development Strategies report indicates that population is generally migrating away from urban Harris County into less developed areas where new housing developments are increasing. Projected Year 2000* Table 2 - 2 Population for Baytown Projected Population Growth Rate 66,430 - 2009* 70,871 6.7% 2020** 75,379 6.4% 2030** 77,790 3.2% 2040** 80,123 3.0% Source: *U.S. Census Bureau **Pro.ection b Texas Water Develo • ment Board • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ai• BAYTOWN • S • • Chapter 2 I Level the Playing Field Age and Racial Characteristics of Baytown When compared to the State of Texas, Baytown has a significantly younger population. In 2008, the median age of those living in Baytown was approximately 32.4 years, slightly lower than the median age for both Harris County (32.7) and Texas (33.2). Close to one-third of the population of Baytown is 20 years old or younger while less than 13% are 65 or older. The percent of the Baytown population that is age 25 to 64 is 52%. Age characteristics are shown in Table 2 — 3. Both area youth and older residents of the City are significant users of recreation facilities. The higher percentage of youth and young working families points to the need for active recreation facilities and programs. Table 2 - 3 Age Characteristics for Baytown & Texas Percent of Total Population Age Group Baytown Texas 0-17 29.7% 27.7% 18-24 9.3% 10.2% 25 - 44 29.8% 29.0% 45-64 18.4% 18.9% 65+ 12.7% 14.2% Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006-2008 American Community Survey 0 0 U rn <5 85+ 80.84 75-79 70-74 65-69 60-64 55-59 50-54 45-49 40-44 35-39 30-34 25-29 18-24 15-17 10-14 5-9 yeas -5% Population Pyramid for City of Baytown Based on 2608 Population Estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau -4% -3% Male Population -2% -1% 0% Percent 1% 2% 3% Female Population 4% 5% HALFF • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Racial characteristics for Baytown are shown in the table below. According to the U.S. Census demographic categories, a person of Hispanic or Latino heritage can be of any race. Therefore, in the table below, the percentages add up to more than 100%. Table 2 - 4 Racial Characteristics of Baytown Race Percent White or Caucasian 64.1% Black or African American 17.0% American Indian or Alaska Native 0.4% Asian 2.0% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander 0.0% Other 14.6% Two or more races 2.0% His•anic or Latino* 37.1% Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006-2008 American Community Survey *of an race Educational Attainment The residents of Baytown have a lower educational level when compared to the surrounding area, Texas, and the United States as a whole. While a larger percentage of residents in Baytown have graduated high school or have some college than the percentage of population in the surrounding areas, state, and nation, there is a higher share of the population that has either not entered high school or not graduated high school, and a lower share of the population that has an associates' degree or higher. Educational attainment levels in Baytown, Harris County, the Houston -Sugar Land -Baytown MSA, the State of Texas, and the United States are shown in Table 2-5. Educational Education Level Less than 9th grade Table Attainment Baytown 9.4% 2 - 5 Comparison Harris Co 11.3% MSA TX U.S. 5.9% 9.7% 9.5% 9th to 12th • rade, no di • loma 14.7% 11.9% 11.3% 11.3% 9.8% High school graduate, GED, or alternative 29.0% 25.6% 26.2% 27.5% 30.0% Some college, no degree 28.1% 21.2% 22.1% 23.4% 22.3% Associate's degree 5.3% 5.2% 5.7% 5.9% 7.1% Bachelor's degree 9.7% 16.6% 17.0% 15.4% 16.2% Graduate or professional degree 3.8% 8.2% 8.1% 7.1% 8.8% Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006-2008 American Communi Surve • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYTOWN r S • • • • • • Chapter 2 I Level the Playing Field • • Employment by Industry • The employment industry composition of Baytown is slightly different to that of Harris County • and the State of Texas. The construction and manufacturing industries make up a larger • share of employment in Baytown than the industries do in the county and state. Moreover, services such as finance, insurance, real estate, administrative, and professional and technical • services is less prevalent in Baytown. A list of employment jobs by industry for Baytown, • Harris County, and the State of Texas are listed below. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Table Employment Baytown 2 - by 6 Industry Harris Co Texas Total % Total % Total % Total 33,535 1,890,375 11,027,630 Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and mining 623 1.9% 50,243 2.7% 319,490 2.9% Construction 4,711 14.0% 202,432 10.7% 1,016,566 9.2% Manufacturing 6,024 18.0% 204,159 10.8% 1,103,798 10.0% Wholesale trade 1,021 3.0% 78,560 4.2% 385,078 3.5% Retail trade 3,841 11.5% 201,119 10.6% 1,269,674 11.5% Transportation and warehousing, and utilities 1 870 5.6% 126,424 6.7% 635,147 5.8% Information 417 1.2% 31204 1.7% 251876 2.3% Finance and insurance, and real estate and rental and leasing 1,248 3.7% 123,652 6.5% 768,623 7.0% Professional, scientific, and management, and administrative and waste management services 3,242 9.7% 243,102 12.9% 1,149,316 10.4% Educational services, and health care and social assistance 5,869 17.5% 327,604 17.3% 2,193,660 19.9% Arts, entertainment, and recreation, and accommodation and food services 2,203 6.6% 151,585 8.0% 900,219 8.2% Other services, except public administration 1 840 ' 5.5% 103,303 5.5% 569,986 5.2% Public administration 626 1.9% 46988 2.5% 464,197 4.2% Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006-2008 American Community Survey • • fp HALFF Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Household Income Median Household Income (MHI) in Baytown is lower than that of Harris County. The MHI in Baytown in 2008 is $48,398, which is 6.4% lower than the MHI of the entire Harris County ($51,718). When compared to Harris County, a higher portion of households in Baytown have an income of under $24,000. The distribution of household income for both the City of Baytown and Harris County is shown below. Income levels may indicate the need for recreation facilities that are free or lower in cost. Table 2 — 7 Household Income Distribution Baytown and Harris County Baytown for Harris County MEDIAN INCOME $48,398 $51,718 Income Number of Households Percent of Total Number of Households Percent of Total Under $25,000 6,467 24.5% 311,677 22.9% $25,000 to $34,999 2,853 10.8% 154,046 11.3% $35,000 to $49,999 4,254 16.1% 192,327 14.1% $50,000 to $74,999 4,971 18.9% 241,427 17.7% $75,000 to $99,999 3,732 14.2% 158,709 11.7% $100,000 and over 4,075 15.5% 302,111 22.2% Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006-2008 American Communi Surve • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Schools in Baytown • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 2'� HALFF • • Chapter 2 I Level the Playing Field Schools often offer ancillary recreational opportunities to the City's park and recreation system. Their recreational amenities, if available to the public outside of school hours, should be documented as components to the City's overall recreational opportunities. Baytown residents are served by the Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District. A list of the schools and their enrollment for 2008 and 2009 is shown in Table 2-8. Name Table 2 - 8 Goose Creek CISD Campuses 2008-2009 2009-2010 Change Applicable Recreation Facilities Alamo Elementary 579 570 -1.6% Playscape Ashbel Smith Elementary 688 649 -5.7% Basketball court, 2 playscapes, 2 backstops Austin Elementary 866 873 0.8% 3 playscapes, soccer field, backstop Bowie Elementary 881 866 -1.7% 1 playscape, trail Carver Elementary 776 891 14.8% 2 playscapes, 2 backstops Crockett Elementary 721 718 -0.4% Playscape, basketball court, 4-square courts, 3 backstops De Zavala Elementary 642 610 -5.0% Playscape, soccer field Harlem Elementary 821 862 5.0% 3 playscapes, trail, pavilion Highlands Elementary 723 706 -2.4% Playscape Hopper Primary 481 465 -3.3% Playscape, basketball court Lamar Elementary 682 779 14.2% 2 playscapes, 4-square courts, backstop Pumphrey Elementary 488 0 -100.0% School closed San Jacinto Elementary 479 496 3.5% Playscape, backstop Travis Elementary 690 945 37.0% 2 playscapes Victoria Walker Elementary 950 1,021 7.5% Playscape, 2 backstops, basketball courts Baytown Junior High 729 762 4.5% 4 tennis courts, soccer field Cedar Bayou Junior High 987 1,008 2.1% 4 tennis courts, football field, backstop Gentry Junior High 1,024 1,012 -1.2% 4 tennis courts, football field, 2 backstops Highlands Junior High 1,050 1,060 1.0% 4 tennis courts, football field, backstop Horace Mann Junior High 811 735 -9.4% 4 tennis courts, 2 backstops, football field Goose Creek Memorial High School 2,066 1,830 -11.4% 8 tennis courts, baseball field, softball field, football field, track, 2 soccer fields, 2 backstops Robert E. Lee High School 2,381 2,348 -1.4% 8 tennis courts, football field, softball field, baseball field, track, backstop Ross S. Sterling High School 1,186 1,624 36.9% 8 tennis courts, baseball field, softball field, track, football field, soccer field, backstop Total Enrollment 20,701 20,830 0.6% Source: Texas Public Education Department 19 Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Lee College is located in Baytown. Lee College is a 2-year community college offering associates degrees. Additionally, Lee College and Goose Creek CISD work together to offer dual credit courses where high school students can begin working toward their college course requirements while still in high school. Table 2 — 9 Higher Education in Baytown Name Enrollment Lee College 6,542* Source: Lee College, Fall 2009 Enrollment Estimate *Includes high school students enrolled in Dual Enrollment Program to earn college credit Previous Planning Efforts in Baytown Part of the master planning process for a citywide parks system includes knowing what other recreational providers are planning. Often times, the recommendations of other plans can help fulfill a deficiency that is lacking, and this can prevent the City from duplicating unnecessary park and recreation facilities. The following pages summarize many different master plans in Baytown, including the 2001 Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Greenways Master Plan; 2007 Aquatic Facilities Master Plan; and 2006 Baytown Nature Center Master Plan. PARKS, RECREATION, OPEN SPACE',AND GREENWAY MASTER PLAN 2001-2020 ' y. CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS 2001 Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Greenways Master Plan The first Parks Master Plan for Baytown was completed in 2001. The 2001 Master Plan outlined goals for the parks and recreation system, as well as recommendations the City should accomplish over a ten to twenty year timeframe. This 2010 Master Plan builds upon those goals and recommendations by incorporating the work that was previously done into the future actions that need to be taken to advance Baytown's parks and recreation system. Goals of the 2001 Parks Master Plan were: 1. Continue to provide a blend of well -maintained parks and recreation areas to adequately accommodate the current and future needs of Baytown's citizens. BAYTOWN S • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Chapter 2 I Level the Playing Field • • 2. Continue developing a system of greenbelts including an interconnected network of pedestrian and bicycle ways and nature trails that are multipurpose, accessible, convenient, and provide connection between neighborhoods, parks, schools and • workplaces. • 3. Establish cooperative agreements and coordinated efforts with other governmental • jurisdictions, education bodies, and private sector entities. • 4. Maintain high quality areas and facilities and continue to pursue expansion of the parks system toward attainment of national standards for parks. • 5. Provide parks and recreation activities and programs oriented around the City's •unique water resources. • 6. Preserve and enhance the education, appreciation, and preservation of local historic •and cultural resources. • 7. Continue to utilize a balanced combination of financing techniques and funding sources to adequately fund the ongoing acquisition, development, maintenance and • operation of the City's parks and recreation areas, facilities, programs and activities. • • The top priority recommendations of the 2001 Master Plan were: • • 1. Renovate and expand the Wayne Gray Sports Complex. • 2. Natural, historical, and cultural interpretive education components will be constructed • or renovated in each recreational facility. • 3. Playgrounds for children of all ages and abilities will be renovated or replaced in • existing facilities and new playgrounds will be constructed in new parks. • 4. Trails with different type surfaces, widths and intended uses will be renovated within • existing parks and developed in future parks. • 5. Natural areas and open space areas will be considered assets and will be integrated • into the design and development of each recreational facility that is constructed or renovated. • • 6. Trees and landscaping for shade and beautification of the City will be provided when such does not occur naturally within a new or existing park site. • • 7. Existing waterways will be acquired and developed, or will be utilized if now within or adjacent to existing recreational facilities, to increase access to water bodies and to • provide land for expansion of the park system to meet future needs for parkland. • • • • HALFF y . ` Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • 1 Programming a basketball league for teens • .L Providing sports camps during the summers for teens • Al. Continuing the Goose Creek greenbelt • • • • • • Other key goals and recommendations of the 2001 Parks Master Plan included: • 14 Starting an Adopt -A -Park program • • 4, Obtaining utilization rates of parks through surveying users • 44 Establishing golf leagues and tournaments • .4 Creating a teen/youth center • 2025 Comprehensive Plan • The Baytown Comprehensive Plan was updated in 2007. Portions of the Comprehensive Plan • have a direct impact on parks and recreational facilities in the City. When discussing the • issue of mobility within Baytown, several key objectives were given to increase bicycle and pedestrian circulation through sidewalks and trails. • Objectives as they relate to sidewalks and trails include: • A Use trail system as a supplement or an alternative to sidewalks, • • 46 Preserving and restoring Baytown's natural resources • • • 8 Quality of Life NOON To .rt*_,_....I.i...c I. J.....l.0 ._ INYTOWN 2025 (OMPN(M(NSIVS PUN r411. � particularly in low population areas. • 1 Design trails to take advantage of natural areas and promote a • sense of detachment while also maintaining high visibility for • crime prevention. • 4, Use conservation easements to acquire, protect, and maintain • areas set aside for trails. • 46 Utilize the pedestrian and bicycle network to connect origins and • destinations for short trips while also offering a recreation amenity. • 4 Ensure that pedestrian/bicycle pathways are given consideration • • • • • 11111:1 '•• BAYTOWN • S • • with roadways in subdivision design. .4 Work toward a community -wide pedestrian/bicycle network • • • • Chapter 2 I Level the Playing Field • consisting of trails, access paths, sidewalks and crosswalks. • 4. Place protected crosswalks along local and collector roadways with an uninterrupted • street length greater than 1,000 feet and at points of intersection with • pedestrian/bicycle paths. • 1 Incorporate bicycle lanes along existing collector roadways that offer sufficient • pavement width for safe bicycle travel (minimum six feet per side). • 4, Coordinate on -street bicycle lanes and off-street trails to establish a connected • • 16 Actively assist companies in developing greenbelts around heavy industry to act as a natural and attractive buffer. bicycle network. • • AL Monitor opportunities to directly acquire or obtain dedication of space for likely bike- • ped routes, including coordination with owners of utility easements and other potential shared -use corridors. • • There are also land use goals of the 2025 Comprehensive Plan that relate to parks and open space. Applicable objectives include: • • 4. Establish riparian zones (vegetated corridors along streams and rivers) consistent with state and federal standards to improve water quality and drainage as well as • providing opportunities for public trails. • Economic opportunities and goals of the 2025 Comprehensive Plan that relate to parks and • recreation include: • • Identify opportunities to transform underutilized and abandoned properties into • neighborhood parks. • • • The Quality of Life chapter in the 2025 Comprehensive Plan • directly discusses parks and recreation. The stated purpose of • this chapter is "to identify goals and priorities for improving Baytown's parks, recreation areas, natural environment, historical • resources, and community image so that current and future • residents can enjoy a high quality of life." Three of the four goals and objectives in the Quality of Life chapter apply to parks and • recreation (the fourth applies to libraries). These goals are: • • • • • • HALFF • • • Start an "adopt -a -neighborhood" program to engage the community in routine clean- up and beautification efforts. Z A system of well -maintained parks, open spaces, trails, recreation areas, and public facilities to accommodate the needs of Baytown's current and future residents. • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • 1 An interconnected network of greenways that are multipurpose, accessible, and • convenient, providing pedestrian and bicycle connections among neighborhoods, parks, schools, workplaces, and community focal points. • 4. An enhanced community image that reflects Baytown's unique historical, cultural, and • natural assets and promotes the community as a desirable place to live, work, and • visit. • Below is a list of specific recommendations from the 2025 Comprehensive Plan that relate • directly to parks and recreation in Baytown. • 4% Expand its parks and recreation system to conform to standards for the acreage and • types of parks per 1,000 residents as recommended by the National Recreation and • Parks Association (NRPA). • 1 Acquire land within parkland -deficient areas to ensure that parks and recreation areas • are evenly distributed throughout the community. • v► Acquire land for parks and trails in identified future growth areas well in advance of • ensuing development to ensure land availability, strategic location, and reasonable acquisition costs. • 4. Involve citizens in the planning and design of neighborhood parks and trails to • address local concerns and ensure that facilities meet the needs and desires of • residents. • Ensure that all parks and recreation facilities are in good physical condition, fully • accessible, and safe by allocating adequate operating and capital funding to • maintain, repair, and improve facilities. • 4. Allow innovative land development practices, such as conservation subdivisions, to • encourage private -sector participation in the protection of natural resources and the • provision of community open space. 4. Use public funds to leverage state and federal grants to finance the expansion or • enhancement of existing parks and development of new parks, trails, bikeways, and • greenbelts. • 4. Ensure that public facilities such as police and fire stations, community centers, and • libraries are adequate to meet growing needs. • 1 Coordinate greenway, trail, and bikeway planning with the Mater Thoroughfare Plan • to create an interconnected system of multipurpose trails, bicycle lanes, and routes • around the City to provide recreation opportunities, as well as alternative • transportation options for residents. • 4. Incorporate parks and open space into key city entrances, as well as long • transportation corridors to visually enhance those corridors. • • • BAYTOWN • • • • • • • • Z Lead beautification efforts by visually enhancing public • infrastructure including streets, sidewalks, and parks — giving priority to the most visible areas of the city such as downtown • and key corridors. • 4. Promote and administer athletic activities, cultural and • community activities, and special events that highlight • Baytown's natural, historical, and cultural assets and attract visitors to the city. • • One Action Plan item under the category of Economic Opportunity that pertains to parks and recreation includes: • • Action Plan items under the category of Quality of Life that pertain to parks and recreation include: • • A. Periodically update the City's Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Greenways Mater Plan to ensure that identified needs • and priorities are current and reflect future demands based on • the latest growth projections. Timeframe goal: by 2009 • • Develop a long-range capital plan that identifies future facility • needs and funding sources to ensure that Baytown's services and facilities continue to meet the needs of a growing • population. Timeframe goal: by 2009 • 11. Identify additional environmentally sensitive or undevelopable • lands the City could acquire and preserve for public open • space or recreational uses, such as areas adjacent to the bays, streams, bayous, and waterways. Timeframe goal: by • 2012 • ,L Continue with the phased renovation of the Wayne Gray • Sports Complex. Timeframe goal: by 2009 • 4. Replace the City's aging swimming pools to ensure that these • facilities are safe, well -maintained and continue to be a • community asset for residents of Baytown. Timeframe goal: • beyond 2012. • Z Evaluate the feasibility of adopting development incentives and/or regulatory measures to preserve open space and • sensitive environmental areas. Timeframe goal: by 2012. • •41. Identify opportunities to transform underutilized and abandoned properties into neighborhood parks. • l Amend the City's development codes to require parkland • dedication or a fee -in -lieu of land in residential developments. • • HALFF • • Chapter 2 I Level the Playing Field 25 Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Timeframe goal: by 2012. 46 Establish park development standards, including criteria for proposed land dedications, for implementation through the City's subdivision regulations. Timeframe goal: by 2012. 1 Undertake an updated community assessment of Baytown's parks and recreation amenities to ensure residents' desires are reflected in parks planning and acquisition. Timeframe goal: by 2012. Explore ways to protect and cover park facilities from sun exposure to increase public use during summer months. Timeframe goal: by 2009. Work with TxDOT to develop a roadside park along 1-10. Timeframe goal: beyond 2012. Explore the possibility of constructing an indoor recreational facility. Timeframe goal: by 2012. 4. Continue the planned extension of the Goose Creek trail and greenbelt to the north to provide additional access to the nature trail and to provide links to more neighborhoods, parks, and schools. Timeframe goal: by 2012. mli Develop a trail along Cedar Bayou to provide a north/south trail connection along the eastern limits of the city, with a link to the Goose Creek Stream trail and greenbelt. Timeframe goal: by 2012. Evaluate the feasibility of on -street bike lanes and routes that will link trails to neighborhoods, parks, schools, churches, the public library and civic center, museums, major employers, medical facilities, social service agencies, and other key destinations. Timeframe goal: by 2012. kits • 40. MAI ZW.ni City of 13a”otm Aquatic Facilities Master Pt:ui isrm „aim, tit)) rn: ILJII 2007 Aquatic Facilities Master Plan The Aquatics Facilities Master Plan for Baytown was completed in 2007, and was intended to to analyze the aquatic facility and programming needs of the City. The Master Plan examined existing and projected populations within the service area, demographics of the area to determine a fee structure for aquatic facilities, and the types of amenities and programming that should be incorporated into an aquatic facility in Baytown. The recommendations of the 2007 Aquatic Facilities Master Plan include: . Renovated pool at N.C. Foote Z New large aquatic center at Wayne Gray rip_�� BAYTOWN • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • HALFF • • Chapter 2 I Level the Playing Field J. Four spraygrounds at (Roseland Park, McElroy Park, in the north at a future park, and in the east at a future park) 1 Three splash pads (Downtown area, Bergeron Park, and Pelly Park) Since the adoption of the 2007 Aquatic Facilities Master Plan, the City has constructed and opened the Pirates Bay Water Park at Wayne Gray Sports Complex. This Parks Master Plan will incorporate the recommendations for additional spraygrounds and splash pads, as well as a renovated aquatic facility at N.C. Foote. 2006 Baytown Nature Center Master Plan The purpose of the 2006 Baytown Nature Center Master Plan was to analyze the current and projected management plans to transform the existing center into a premier wildlife nature center on the northern Texas coast. The two primary goals of the Nature Center are Habitat conservation 4. Development of educational opportunities for students learning about nature and basic ecological principles Recommendations to enhance the Nature Center include: 1 Additional hiking trails, mostly decomposed granite resting on a crushed limestone base . Two pedestrian bridges to cross waterways y Boardwalks to cross marshy areas ▪ Vegetation enhancement by clearing invasive plants and planting hardwood tree species 4. Divert Steinman ditch to feed a string of retention ponds ▪ Contain fresh water runoff to maximize its opportunity to soak into the ground and keep saltwater intrusion to a minimum 4. Add breakwaters or surge barriers to protect the shoreline where needed Baytown Nature Center Master Plan November 2006 Prepired far City of Baytown 2407 Market Street Baytown, Texas 77520 Eby. 101x1H011) I IMU cWN1A1. Crouch Environmental Services, Inc. 4:Q TMbhom Hanlon, Tow now 7t3a8610a F. 713e637944 inbecrouchanvironnoihl.00m Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Downtown Master Plan The Downtown Master Plan for Baytown was adopted in 2004. There are key opportunities and recommendations of the Downtown Master Plan that are applicable to this Parks Master Plan. The Downtown Master Plan recognizes Goose Creek as a key asset in the City, and the valuable connection it provides from the downtown area to other recreational amenities. The plan also notes the "strong potential for further development of the open space system within and surrounding the Downtown." • • • • • • • • • • Development principles of the Downtown Master Plan that • potentially relate to parks and recreation can include: • • Develop a high -quality interconnected park and • boulevard system linking the districts and • neighborhoods, and creating a boulevard entrance to . downtown. One stated objective to achieve this is to expand the existing park system along Goose Creek. • Expanding the park and Goose Creek trail is also a • key recommendation of this Parks Master Plan. • • Create a vibrant walkable mixed -use downtown • district. One stated objective to achieve this principle is to create a walkable pedestrian streetscape • throughout the downtown. Walkable streetscapes • can easily translate into trails and parkway sidewalk corridors throughout the downtown area which are • also recommendations of this Parks Master Plan. • The urban design recommendation for open space suggests adding new informal spaces throughout downtown to serve as plazas or pocket parks. The Downtown Master Plan stresses the importance these spaces serve in the overall theme of the downtown area by becoming key locations for outdoor events and outdoor dining. • • • • • Natt, W. (04 June 2009). Bizjoumals population projections: Houston region remains in top 5. Houston • Tomorrow. Retrieved online January 13, 2010 from • http://www.houstontomorrow.org/livability/story/bizjoumals-population-projections-houston- • remains-in-top-5/ • • • • • • • - I!-_jN: • • • • • • • • • CHAPTER 3 WHERE WE PLAY TODAY • • • • • • CHAPTER 3 - THE EXISTING PARKS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • AND RECREATION SYSTEM • Purpose of the Existing Parks and Recreation • Inventory • The Excellent Parks System discussed in Chapter 1 notes that knowing what parks are in the • system is one of the seven traits of an outstanding parks system. Having an up to date • inventory is a key part of the park planning process. It helps to understand what parks and recreation facilities are currently available, and to assess the conditions of those facilities. It • also helps to assess whether or not those facilities are addressing the actual parks and • recreation needs of the City. By comparing the available parks facilities with the characteristics of people the parks system serves, the need for new or improved recreational • facilities can be determined. • Baytown has an established network of both neighborhood and larger community parks. • These parks are well placed within the neighborhoods they serve and are well maintained. • This inventory begins to identify where park service is lacking. • • • • i; HALFF • Chapter 3 I Where We Play Today "The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of ourselves to the task at hand." Vince Lombardi, former head coach of the Green Bay Packers • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan _ t is` _L j^ ^ ' * a 4�_ !ft. iI'r _ / ! uNs_�_iy wow. [<], Parks Classification Long accepted guidelines identify three general categories of parks. These are: Local, close -to -home parks — These parks are located within the community served by the facility, and include mini -parks, neighborhood parks, and community parks. These parks are a very important part of any parks system, and thus far Baytown has done an excellent job in providing these types of parks. Close to home parks are usually within walking or driving distance from where residents of the City live, and provide day to day facilities for all ages and activities. Regional Parks — Located within 30 minutes to two hours of driving distance, parks in this category serve a number of communities. These parks can include metropolitan parks and regional park reserves. Unique Parks — These parks can be defined as areas that are unique in some way, whether because of physical features or because of the types of facilities provided. Parks in this category may include linear parks, special use parks, or land conservancies. They may be either local or regional. Description of Park Types Found in Baytown Today Neighborhood Parks — Because neighborhood parks are within easy walking or bicycling distance, they often form the foundation of recreation in most cities such as Baytown. Neighborhood parks provide amenities for an entire family and typically serve one large or several small neighborhoods. Ideally, neighborhood parks in Baytown should range from three acres to ten acres in size. Accessible — Neighborhood parks should be accessible within a quarter mile to a half mile radius of residents. Neighborhood parks should be accessible without having to cross major arterial streets. They are generally located away from major arterial streets and provide easy access for the users that surround it. One cost effective alternative is to locate neighborhood parks next to elementary schools because the City and the school district can share acquisition and development costs. In the future, where feasible, new neighborhood parks should be planned and developed in close coordination with the Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District (GCCISD). This can result in significant cost savings and more efficient use of tax dollars to the City and the school district. Size — Because of the physical topography, neighborhood park sites can vary in size. An ideal size for neighborhood parks in Baytown should be around three to ten acres. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYTOWN • s • • • • • • Chapter 3 I Where We Play Today • Location — An ideal location for neighborhood parks is to be in the center of the neighborhoods • it is meant to serve. Also having local or minor collector streets on at least two sides of the park allows for easy pedestrian and bicycle accessibility. • • Restrooms — Restrooms typically are not placed in neighborhood parks because they increase maintenance and provide a location for illegal activities. • • Parking — Parking varies based on the size of the park, the availability of safe on -street parking, the facilities the park offers, and the number of users the park will attract. A minimum • of eight spaces per new neighborhood park are recommended with an additional two • handicapped parking spaces per each new neighborhood park. • • • • Facilities — Typical neighborhood park facilities can include: • 41. Age appropriate playground equipment with adequate safety surfacing around the • playground • mL Unlighted practice fields for baseball, softball, soccer, and football • ,L Unlighted tennis courts • • Lighted or unlighted multi -purpose courts for basketball and volleyball • .L Active areas for unorganized play • L Picnic areas with benches, picnic tables, and cooking grills • • 4. Shaded pavilions and gazebos • 4. Jogging and exercise trails • • • • • • • • • • • • HALFF • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan An illustration representing typical amenities found in a neighborhood park is shown below; however each neighborhood park should be uniquely designed to complement the neighborhood that it serves. Example of a typical neighborhood park layout. This park is approximately six acres in size, and is surrounded by streets two sides of the park. It is centered in the neighborhood that it serves. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • al• • BAYTOWN • s • • • • • • • Community Parks — These larger parks are meant to serve a • group of neighborhoods or a portion of a city. Community parks are usually reached by automobiles, as well as • pedestrian and bicycle access of residents who live near the • park. • Size — Community parks vary in size from ten acres to 100+ • acres. The typical community parks should be large enough so it can provide a variety of facilities while still leaving open space • for unstructured recreation and natural areas. The park should • also have room for expansions, as new facilities are required to continue to attract users. • • Location — Because of the potential for noise and bright lights at night, community parks should be buffered from adjacent • residential areas. Since community parks are usually reached • by automobiles, it is best to locate a community park near a major thoroughfare to provide easy access from different parts • of the City. • Parking — This varies based on the facilities provided and the • size of the park. Additional parking is needed to accommodate • facilities such as athletic fields or swimming pools that can be located in community parks. The National Recreation and • Parks Association (NRPA) recommends a minimum of five • spaces per acre with additional parking for added facilities. The • specific amount of parking provided in each park should be determined by the facilities provided in that park. • • Facilities — Typical community park facilities include: • Z Play equipment Active free play areas • •41i Picnic areas and pavilion(s) • • Restrooms • 1 Jogging, bicycling, or nature trails (sometimes lighted for evening use) • . Lighted athletic fields (suitable for organized • competitive events) • • Recreation center (if appropriate) • • • • HALFF • • Chapter 3 I Where We Play Today A typical community park layout, illustrating the types of facilities that might be found in a 20 to 30 acre community park. • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • 46 Sufficient off-street parking based on facilities provided and size of park • • 1 Other facilities as needed which can take advantage of the unique characteristics of • the site such as nature trails, fishing ponds, swimming pools, dog parks, • amphitheaters, etc. • • • • • ,L Large lake or pond for water based activities • • 44 Recreation centers • 414 Indoor or outdoor pools • 44 Large natural habitat for wildlife and bird observation • • .L Multi -use trail system • 46 Nature or interpretive center • 414 Large picnic shelter with grills and tables • • 46 Several individual picnic shelters • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • y Security lighting The illustration on the previous page represents a typical community park. Regional Parks — Regional parks are very large parks that serve an entire region of the City, and very often become the premier park in that area. Facilities that are typically found in a regional park include: •L Large shaded playground Restrooms 46 Large open space areas 44 Unorganized sports facilities Parking areas for each of the facilities listed above Potential additions to a regional park may include: 46 Citywide gathering and performance areas y Small or large performance amphitheaters • BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • • • Location — Regional parks should be located near major highways and thoroughfares to provide easy access from most of the City. Because of the potential for traffic, noise, and • bright lights at night regional parks should ideally be buffered from adjacent residential areas. • Open Space Preserves and Natural Area Parks — Open space preserves are a critical part 41 of the land use system in any large metropolitan area. The Baytown Nature Center is 450 • acres of open space in the urban setting of Baytown. • Linear Parks — Linear parks are open park areas that generally follow some natural or man- • made feature that is linear in nature such as creeks, abandoned railroad right-of-ways, or powerline and utility corridor easements. In Baytown, most of the potential linear park • corridors could be along the bayous and creek system. Properly developed to facilitate • pedestrian and bicycle travel, linear parks can serve to link or connect other parks in the local system, as well as schools, neighborhood shopping, libraries, civic buildings, and other major • destinations. No specific standards apply to linear parks other than the park should be large • enough to adequately accommodate the resources they contain. They should also serve to • help preserve open space. Special Purpose Parks — These types of parks are designed to accommodate specialized recreational activities. Because the facility needs for each activity type are different, each • special purpose park usually provides for one or a few activities. Examples of special purpose Chapter 3 I Where We Play Today • 46 Athletic facilities, so long as they do not dominate the park • l Limited day camping facilities • • 1 Sufficient off-street parking based on facilities provided and size of the park • 4. Other facilities as needed which can be take advantage of the unique characteristics • of the site such as nature trails, fishing ponds, swimming pools, dog parks, skate parks, etc. • parks include: • 4. Golf courses • 4, Athletic fields or complexes • • Ali Swimming pool centers • .L Tennis complexes • Athletic complexes and golf course are the most common types of special purpose parks. • Athletic complexes seek to provide fields for organized play in a location that can • accommodate the traffic and noise that a large number of users can generate. Athletic complexes should include sufficient fields so that leagues can congregate at one facility and • not have to spread out in different locations. • • • • HALFF • • r- 5 Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Size of the Parks System in Baytown Currently the Baytown parks system includes 47 park sites and contains a total of 1,083.81 acres. Table 3 —1 summarizes the existing park facilities. A complete list of inventory can be found on the tables in the Appendix of this Master Plan. Table 3 —1 The 2010 Parks System in Baytown Total Number of Parks 47 Total Acreage 1,083.81 Neighborhood Parks 23 parks totaling 88.15 acres Community Parks 11 parks totaling 296.78 acres Regional Parks 2 parks totaling 396.64 acres Special Purpose -Sports Complex 6 parks totaling 126.98 acres Open Space 5 parks totaling 117.28 acres Largest Developed Park Baytown Nature Center (452.52 acres) Smallest Developed Park Dale Street Park (0.17 acres) Developed vs. Undeveloped Parks 1,006.45 vs. 77.36 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Additionally there are five (5) HOA parks and nine (9) county -owned parks within Baytown's • City Limits and ETJ Limits. These non -city parks add 429.42 acres to the park system in • Baytown. • • • • • • • • • ta• • B YTOWN • • • 0 C rn rn rn 0 rn m rn 0 rn 1. • • • • • Chapter 4 I TEAM - Together Everyone Achieves More • CHAPTER 4 - PUBLIC INPUT PROCESS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Public input is a critical part of any planning process. Public entities work for their citizens by • managing and providing the types of facilities that the residents and taxpayers of the • community want to have. In essence, our citizens are our "customers" and it is the City's responsibility to provide what our customers seek. In the parks planning process, citizen input • helps identify what types of existing facilities are being used, where key deficiencies may • occur, and where the citizens of Baytown would like to see their funding targeted. In essence, the residents of a community determine what they want to have in their city through their • current use of those facilities, and through their comments and input. • This master plan incorporates an extensive amount of public input, utilizing several alternative • methods. By using these methods of public input, feedback from many varying parts of the • community were received, leading to a broader consensus on the direction that the Master Plan should take. Direct written citizen responses received during the park planning process • total 1,478 residents in the City, or one out of every 48 residents. The multiple methods that • were used to generate citizen input during the planning process include: Introduction to the Public Input Process • • • • IL HALFF • • IM _ , L r- ........... imi "To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan, but also believe." Anatole France French writer, Nobel Prize winner in 1921 for Literature Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • • 41. Citywide mail -out survey 4. An online survey ,1i Intercept surveys of actual park users throughout Baytown Ali Interviews with key stakeholders and city staff Mail -out and Online Surveys 1 Presentations to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Citywide public meeting Z Workshops with the City Council Why use a mail -out survey — A citywide mail -out survey was conducted as part of the parks and recreation planning. The survey was designed to examine residents' current participation in recreational activities, and it also helped to assess recreational needs in Baytown. The survey allows elected officials and City staff to better understand the recreational needs and desires of its citizenry. The survey was conducted by a professional public input firm with extensive experience in recreation attitude surveys. Survey methodology — 5,000 mail -out surveys were sent to randomly selected homes in Baytown, and equally distributed throughout each council district of the City. Approximately 8% or 400+ completed surveys were returned. Location of responders — To help identify needs in different parts of the City, the surveys were color coded based on council districts or ETJ. Purpose of an online survey — All citizens in Baytown were given the opportunity to log onto the City's website and take a survey pertaining to parks and recreation. The survey was modeled after the mail -out survey with the same questions to allow for comparison. The reason for an online survey was to give all residents a broad based opportunity to voice their opinions. Citywide Survey Results Over the next several pages, the key results of the mail -out survey and the online survey are shown and compared. Cumulative results of the two surveys can be found in the appendix of this Master Plan. Satisfaction with Parks and Recreation System — one series of questions on the surveys asked residents if they agree or disagree with statements regarding different aspects of the parks and recreation system in Baytown. 69% of mail -out survey respondents either agree or strongly agree that they are satisfied with the quality of parks and recreation in Baytown. However, only 52% of mail -out survey respondents are satisfied with the quality of parks and recreation in their neighborhood. Similarly, 55% of online survey respondents indicated they • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • a. ........1 • .�� BAYS • • • • I feel safe when I visit a park in • Baytown. • I'm willing to pay additional city taxes to see the quality of parks and • recreational amenities upgraded. • I'm satisfied with the quality of parks • and recreation in my neighborhood. • • • Better parks will help improve our • city image. • The City should improve existing • parks before developing new ones. • I feel that parks help strengthen our city image. • I feel safe when I visit a park in • Baytown. • I'm willing to pay additional city taxes to see the quality of parks and • recreational amenities upgraded. • I'm satisfied with the quality of parks and recreation in Baytown. • • • • Chapter 4 I TEAM - Together Everyone Achieves More • were satisfied or very satisfied with the quality of parks and recreation in Baytown, while only • 45% of online survey respondents indicated they were satisfied or very satisfied with the • quality of parks and recreation in their neighborhood. • Better parks will help improve our city image. • The City should improve existing • parks before developing new ones. • I feel that parks help strengthen our • city image. • I'm satisfied with the quality of parks and recreation in Baytown. • I'm satisfied with the quality of parks • and recreation in my neighborhood. • • HALFF • Mail -out Survey Results Strongly a ree or agr 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 0% 10% 20% ■ Strongly Agree • Agree ■ Disagree ■ Strongly Disagree Online Survey Results 30% 40% S0% 60% 90% .sagree 100% trongly agr or agree , Disagree 70% 80% ■ Strongly Agree ■ Agree ■ Disagree ■ Strongly Disagree 90% 100% • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Favorite Park — One question on the surveys asked residents what their favorite park was in Baytown. The results are listed below. Mail -out Survey Online Survey 4. Roseland Park 41 % 4, Roseland Park 36% 4. Jenkins Park 28% 4. Jenkins Park 21% 4. Nature Center 7% 4. Nature Center 6% Additional Amenities to Improve Parks — The following question asked the residents what additional amenities or recreation features they would add to improve their favorite park. The results are listed below. Mail -out Survey ili Trails 13% 11. Pavilions 11% b Playgrounds 8% Online Survey mli Trails 15% 41. Playgrounds 11% Z Swimming pool 10% Outside of Baytown for Recreational Activities — One important question on the surveys asked residents if they go outside of the City of Baytown for recreational activities. Determining if residents are using facilities in other cities indicates there is a lack of similar facilities that are offered in the City. 59% of those who responded to the mail -out survey and 75% of those who responded to the online survey indicated that yes they do go outside of Baytown to participate in recreational activities. Residents who answered yes were then asked which surrounding cities they visit to participate in recreational activities. The responses are listed below. Mail -out Survey Online Survey Al. Houston 41% vli Houston 36% mi. Clear Lake 12% Clear Lake 8% A. Galveston 8% 1 Kemah 6% Kemah 5% 1 La Porte 6% • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Playgrounds • • Trails • Teen center for teen activities • • Pavilions for group activities • Lighted fishing pier • • Additional fishing piers Baseball/softball fields for youth Chapter 4 I TEAM - Together Everyone Achieves More Recreational Activity Participated in Outside of Baytown — Again those who answered yes to going outside of Baytown for recreation were asked to list what recreational activities they participate in in other cities. The results are listed below. Mail -out Survey Online Survey 4. Festivals/concerts/events 16% . Hiking/walking/running 14% 4. Dining 16% l Water activities/swimming 11% 4. Fishing 14% 4. Festivals/concerts/events 11% 4. Hunting 14% 4. Fishing 10% 4. Hiking/walking/running 11% 41. Baseball 6% A. Boating/water skiing 8% +L Bicycling 6% Most Important Facility to Add or Provide — Residents who participated in the surveys were given a list of recreation facilities that could be added to parks in Baytown. They were then asked to mark how important or unimportant each facility was to them. The number one facility for both surveys was more lighting in the parks. The third highest rated facility on both surveys was additional trails. The top eight results are shown by the graphs below. Mail -out Survey Results • • • • I HALFF • • More lighting in parks 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% Vry important or importa t „Not important %1 %I 70% 80% ■ Very Important • Important a Unimportant ■ Very Unimportant 90% 100% Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan More lighting in parks Teen center for teen activities Trails Lighted fishing pier Additional fishing piers Indoor recreation center Playgrounds Pavilions for group activities More trails. #1 for Mail -out Survey More lighting in parks, #1 fo` Online Survey 0% 10% 20% Online Survey Results 30% 40% 50% 60% ery important or importa 70% 80% ■ Very Important • Important • Unimportant • Very Unimportant tt 90% Most Important Facility — Residents were then asked to write which of the three facilities provided in the list were the most important to them. The results are listed below. Mail -out Survey 4. Trails .. Teen center .la More lighting in parks .4L Indoor recreation center .w Playgrounds Online Survey 32% . More lighting in parks 28% 1 Playgrounds 27% • Community gardens 26% • Fishing piers 21% • Fitness classes of important 100% 15% 8% 8% 7% 7% • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • • Intercept Surveys in Parks • Over the course of a weekend in April, visitors to the parks in Baytown were asked to fill out a quick four -question survey regarding what they like about the parks and what suggestions they • have to improve the parks in the City. 457 surveys were collected from 17 different parks • throughout the City. The results are discussed below. • Ali The average age of survey respondents was 39 years old. • Nearly 25% of survey respondents live outside of the City of Baytown. The people • using Baytown's parks came from 27 other communities or surrounding areas. The • most common were Houston, Highlands, Channelview and Mont Belvieu. Others included La Porte, Brazoria, Alvin, League City, Clearlake, Pasadena, Cove, • Pearland, Manvel, Crosby, Jacinto City, Friendswood, Deer Park, Dayton, Livingston, • Winnie, and Texas City. • The most common responses people listed for liking parks in Baytown included: • ,Ir Clean • • Variety of facilities/activities • 4. Trails •11, Nice athletic fields/park facilities • • • Covered bleachers/spectator seating • • • • Its HALFF • • Chapter 4 I TEAM - Together Everyone Achieves More • Playgrounds • 41. Close by or convenient • 49% of the suggestions for improving the parks included improvements to the physical park. • 9.4% of the suggestions focused on restroom improvements, while 40% focused on other • items such as walkways, parking and fencing. 8.1% of suggestions focused on operational issues, such as adding security or improving food. The most common suggestions people • listed for improving parks included: • 4. Better parking • • lb Cleaner/better restrooms • More trails • More playgrounds and playgrounds for smaller children • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • • • • • • • • Citywide Public Meeting/Open House • 4. More covered picnic areas 41. Protection nets from foul balls around athletic fields 4. Recreation center 4. More lights/security lighting 1 Construct an indoor recreation center Provide more water -based recreation Create a downtown plaza/park iii Enhance the Baytown Nature Center 4. Improve athletic facilities Create a bay front esplanade y Add public art in parks and along trails 1 Preserve additional open space . Plan for neighborhood parks in all of Baytown 4. Acquire parkland for underserved areas • Purpose of a citywide public meeting — Public meetings are held • during a planning process to allow all residents of a community the opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns. Residents of • Baytown were invited to an open house and public meeting held at the • community center in the month of April. They were shown different illustrations representing potential recommendations of the master • plan. The residents were asked to mark how important each idea was • to them. The input received from the public meeting is discussed below. • The key recommendations that were rated as either very important or • important by the meeting attendees are listed below, as well as the • number of very important or important responses that each received. • 22 responses • 18 responses • • 18 responses • 16 responses • 14 responses • • 12 responses • 12 responses • 10 responses • 10 responses • • 10 responses • • • • I.,,, �'., , • lo • BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • • 4. Create a citywide trails system • 4. Extend the Goose Creek Trail 9 responses • • favorite. Their responses are listed below. • • 4. Roseland Park 29% • 4. Jenkins Park 21% Chapter 4 I TEAM — Together Everyone Achieves More The residents who attended the open house were asked which park in Baytown was their • 4. Baytown Nature Center 8% • • Bicentennial Park 8% • 4. Wayne Gray Sports Complex 4% • 4. Hollaway Park 4% • • 4. Bergeron Park 4% • 4. Allenbrook Park 4% • 4. Unidad Park 4% • • 4. N.C. Foote Park 4% • 1 Highlands Park 4% 10 responses • One potential recommendation of this master plan is to create a true "central" park in Baytown. • A central park was defined as a park that is thought to be the most important park in the city, • the park where all events happen, and is a central gathering place for all residents. The residents who attended the open house were asked which park could become Baytown's • central park. Their responses were: • 4. Bicentennial Park 45% • • 4. Roseland Park • 4. Wayne Gray Sports Complex • 4. Eddie Huron Park • • • • • • • 11. HALFF • • 30% 20% 5% Special Facilities — The residents who attended the open house were shown pictures of a variety of special use facilities. They were asked to place stickers on the facilities they would Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan most like to see added in Baytown. The top eight facilities that received the highest level of interest are listed below. Paintball course 13% Challenge course 10% ,L Mini golf course 8% AL Amphitheater 7% Ili Kickball complex 7% Kayak/canoe rental 7% 4. Botanical garden 7% 41. Lighted fishing pier 7% Programs — The residents were also shown a variety of programs that could be offered at a recreation center, and again were asked to place stickers on the programs they were most interested in. The top five programs that residents were most interested in are 1 Salsa dancing 15% mli Jazzercise 10% 1 Kickboxing 10% Yoga 10% Pilates 10% Stakeholder Interviews As part of the planning process, several stakeholder groups were contacted for an interview. Over the course of several days, the leaders and boards of 15 different organizations and interest groups met to discuss their interests and concerns with regards to parks and recreation in Baytown. A summary of what the groups stressed as their highest priority needs and desires are shown in Table 4 -1. January meeting with Youth Advisory Council (YAC) ei , . la• BAYS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • HALFF • • Chapter 4 I TEAM - Together Everyone Achieves More Stakeholder Group Table 4 -1 Stakeholder Needs Key Needs/Desires Need major branding of the City to attract more retail and restaurants. Need better communication with the Parks & Recreation Department and the Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber does not know when programs or events occur, and they could help advertise them. Chamber of Commerce Friends of the Nature Center Needs include more staff, interpretive signage, discovery or environmental playgrounds, security, boat launch, more trails, and restrooms. Ideal situation would be to move the Wetlands Center to the Nature Center. North Little League Additional space for another t-ball field, storage facility. West Baytown Civic Association Want a splash pad, gazebo, and music stage within their neighborhood park. The City needs a youth activity center. City should focus on parks and beautification to keep businesses and residents in this area. YMCA Cannot expand building on the current site. Wanting a new facility, possibly in the north area of the City. Currently they have an outdoor pool, and they would like to start a competitive swim team. ExxonMobil Want their employees to live in Baytown. Interested in gateways and beautification to help promote Baytown as a place to live. Interested in recycling programs. Want to continue community improvement projects, and encourage employees to volunteer for projects at the Nature Center or other parks. Goose Creek CISD Interested in having parks adjacent to elementary schools. Want bike paths and routes that connect neighborhoods to the schools. Kiwanis Club Interested in creating a greenhouse and community garden. There is no real understanding among residents about what is offered or where to find information about parks and recreation. Friends of the Wetlands Center Interested in constructing a sustainable energy facility. Preserve more open space along the water front. Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Unique ideas of amenities to add: zip line, merry-go-rounds, hot dog stands and other concessioners, carriage rides, boardwalk, rides similar to Kemah, botanical gardens, art and sculptures to educate people, murals for groups of people to paint, ice skating rink in the winter, paintball park. Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Republic of Texas Plaza Want an electrical outlet on the plaza for holiday lights, and speakers on the ground outside to hear the music that they play inside the buildings. Landscape around the sign and houses. Put a fence and flower beds around the houses to give the appearance of a yard. They have rooms for probably two more buildings, and would like a gazebo. Want trails around the historical markers in Baytown to develop a walking tour of them. Need a storage facility to hold donations. Baytown Planning Department Preserve open space along Grand Parkway. It is very scenic with nice view sheds. The manna and Evergreen Point are assets to the City. Need interconnected trails and safe routes to schools. Need preservation standards for the core part of the City. Interested in creating paddling trails and greenbelts along Cedar Bayou. Recreation Staff Interested in having an indoor recreation center with a teen center component. A state-of-the-art facility will grow their programming. There are no soccer fields in the east. Very limited adult programs. They would like to offer adult soccer and basketball, but they do not have the facilities. Need more indoor rental facilities in the parks. Park Maintenance and Operations Staff The amount of parkland is growing each year, but maintenance staff has not increased accordingly. It is inconvenient that they have to drive to the Public Works Department to fuel their trucks and tractors. Graffiti problems at Jenkins Park, especially around skate park. There are no incentives for crew members to get licensed and lower pay than surrounding cities, so turnover is very high. Aquatics Staff Continue implementing the recommendations of the Aquatics Master Plan and install splash pads. Nature Center and Wetlands Center Staff Want an education building at the Nature Center. Need a lift gate at the Nature Center to make people stop and pay the entry fee. They need better marketing of the centers and programs, and would like to have control of the website off the City's main page. Need interpretive trails, more trash bins, directional signs, and storage facility. City Management Variety of trail surfaces to accommodate runners. Places for kayaking. Pursue partnerships for multi -use facilities. Develop a plan for preservation of wooded areas. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYTOWN • • • • • • • • • CHAPTER 5 -KEY PARK NEEDS, Now • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • AND IN THE FUTURE Understanding Baytown's Park and Recreation Needs • Residents of Baytown have clearly established that recreation is important to them, and that • they appreciate the opportunities for engaging in recreational activities that exist in the City • today. They also recognize that the City is growing, and that new residents arriving in Baytown will only increase the need for park and recreation facilities and programming. • • More importantly, the way we recreate is rapidly changing. Baytown's population is increasing and at the same time evolving. Both young and old residents of the City have new recreation • challenges. New trends in technology, as well as increasing time demands and a huge • amount of activities and events that are constantly vying for our time are challenging the way we play and relax. This needs assessment will help recognize both basic and new needs, and • will help Baytown embrace and be ready for those changes. • • • • • ii HALFF • • At a basic level, the needs assessment compares the state of the City today with the parks and recreation facilities and programs that will be needed in the future. An understanding of the deficiencies that exist in the parks and recreation system today is vital so that actions can Chapter 5 I A Whole New Ball Game "If you're trying to achieve, there will be roadblocks. I've had them, everybody has had them. But obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it." Michael Jordan Each evaluation method is important in its own way, but individually does not represent the entire story. This assessment, and the recommendations resulting from it, uses findings from all three techniques in a combined manner to determine what types of parks and recreation facilities are needed in Baytown. Ultimately, these needs are vetted by the citizens of Baytown, and are determined to best represent the key parks and recreational needs of the City. 41,1)• ill III- 50 Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • • • be developed to address immediate deficiencies. This assessment also projects potential • future needs, so as to develop a plan to address these needs. This assessment is a critical component of the parks and recreation master planning effort. • The needs assessment is both quantitative and qualitative. A variety of different inputs and • techniques are used in evaluating Baytown's current and future park needs. Generally, three • methodologies were included in the needs assessment analysis, and each is described in • greater detail in this section. • Ji Level of Service -based assessment — uses locally developed level of service ratios • of facilities to population so as to project where the City is today and where it might • be in the future as the population grows; 46. Demand -based assessment — using actual and/or anticipated usage growth data, • as well as citizen input on the types of activities they would like to engage in, to • determine which facilities and programs are most in demand; 1 Resource -based assessment — recognizes that Baytown has many unique physical • features, and explores how to convert these into recreation or open space assets that help meet the demand for recreation in the City. Examples of potential physical • resources in Baytown might include the coastal bays, bayous, and creeks. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • a • I lib ,► - SBAYTOWN • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Chapter 5 I A Whole New Ball Game Quantitative Assessment (Level of Service) Many recreation needs assessments use national guidelines and standards to determine what their facility needs should be. It is important to recognize that national standards are simply guidelines or benchmarks that are intended to serve as a starting point for parks planning. Each city has its own unique geographic, demographic, and socio- economic composition; and as such the arbitrary application of national standards probably will not address the specific needs of that particular community. Such standards are no longer used to project facility needs since they are based on a "one size fits all" type of evaluation. LEVEL OF SERVICE -BASED ASSESSMENT Uses target level of service established by the local jurisdiction, in this case the City of Baytown, to determine the quantity of park facilities required to meet the City's needs. These target levels of service usually are expressed as the quantity of park facilities needed to adequately serve a given ratio of residents. These targets are established to provide the level of service that the particular jurisdiction believes is the most responsive to the amount of use and the interest of its citizens. This plan establishes individual city specific levels of service for Baytown, and does not rely on outdated national standards that are no longer applicable to Baytown. Rather, this Master Plan methodology utilizes the existing level of service in the City as a starting point and determines whether that level of service is adequate, or whether it needs to be increased or decreased. Extensive public input is used to determine how to adjust the current level of service, as well as the anticipated growth of the City, and what parts of Baytown are well served and what parts are not. Local needs and desires are used to mold these guidelines to meet the expectations of the citizens of Baytown in a realistic manner. Three types of level of service determinations are made as shown below. LEVEL OF SERVICE COMPARISONS USED IN THIS ANALYSIS Level of service — Quantity — Defines the geographic context of parkland needs, and is expresses as a ratio of park acreage to population. More importantly, it also defines the distribution and access to facilities throughout Baytown. Level of Service — Access to Parkland — geographically determines how easy it is for Baytown residents to access parkland, and determines where parkland is needed to meet the City's target level of service. Facility level of service — Defines the number of facilities recommended serving each particular recreation need. Facility standards are usually expressed as a ratio of units of a particular facility per population size. For example, a facility standard for a recreation center might be one square foot for every resident of the City. • • • HALFF • • • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • • The purpose of spatial levels of service for parks and recreational areas is to ensure that • sufficient area is allocated for all the outdoor recreation needs of a community. They allow a • city to plan ahead so that parkland can be targeted and acquired before it is developed. To • help determine an appropriate level of service, a "target" level of service is incorporated into • this system -wide master plan. These spatial standards are expressed as a ratio of parkland to residents in Baytown. • • Target Levels of Service For comparative purposes, and to assess where Baytown ranks, typical ranges for geographic and spatial levels of service for similar communities throughout Texas are shown below. SPATIAL LEVELS OF SERVICE FOR OTHER AREA TEXAS COMMUNITIES (* Expressed as a ratio of acres for every 1,000 residents of the City) City Neighborhood* Community* Overall* Actual Tar s et Actual Tar. et Actual Tar s et Baytown (2010) Suggested Target Level of Service 1.2+/- 2.0 4.2 5.0 15.3 10 to 22 Huntsville (2009) 0.25 2 6.1 --- 6.8 --- Friendswood (2010) 3.2 3.3 6.5 Conroe (2005) 0.6 1 to 2 1.8 5 to 8 7.2 11 to 20 Missouri City (2007) 1.77 7.5 4.2 5 12.9 Sugar Land (2005) 0.5 3.06 12.9 La Porte (2008) 0.8 4.8 5.6 League City (2006) 0.9 6.9 9.8 Houston (2008) 0.7 1.1 19.9 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYTOWN • • • • • • 0 0 • • • • • • • I • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • I • • • I • • • it ir HALFF • • Chapter 5 I A Whole New Ball Game Neighborhood Parks in Baytown Baytown currently has 88.15 acres of City -owned neighborhood parks (including pocket parks), yielding an existing level of service of 1.24 acres of neighborhood parkland for every 1,000 residents (or one acre for every 804 residents of the City). This ratio compares favorably with other area cities and provides a strong framework for maintaining neighborhood stability. In many cases, existing community parks also help address the need for neighborhood access to parkland. For example, portions of Roseland Park that include open play areas and a playground can also be considered as meeting the neighborhood park needs of the areas around that park, even though Roseland Park is considered a community park. When all types of parks (including neighborhood, community and regional parks) are considered, the level of service for smaller parks increases to 2.4 acres for every 1,000 residents. This master plan emphasizes the importance of access to parks as a key component of Baytown's parks system. Neighborhood parks serve as centerpieces of a neighborhood, and they are a fundamental part of the Baytown's parks. In the future, the recommended target level of service goal is a suggested minimum of 2.0 acres of neighborhood parks for every 1,000 residents of Baytown. This applies to both new neighborhoods being developed now and in the future, as well as to older neighborhoods throughout Baytown. Neighborhood parks are typically centrally located in a neighborhood or central to the several smaller neighborhoods it serves. Ideally a neighborhood park would be 2 to 10 acres in size, and serve no more than 2,000 to 4,000 residents. They should be integrated into the community in a prominent manner and not added later as an afterthought. Baytown's chief concern with neighborhood parks is not now, but what happens as the City continues to grow outward. Providing the same level of service will require that new neighborhoods more proactively provide access to parks as they are built. This is already occurring in many but not all new developments being built in Baytown. Existing Neighborhood Park Level of Service Existing Neighborhood Parks in Baytown (including Homeowner controlled parks) Current acres — 88.15 acres (City owned neighborhood parks) i. 83.0 acres (portions of existing community parks that provide some level of close -in park access) 1 Current level of service — 2.4 +l- acres per every 1,000 residents of Baytown i. Current percentage of recommended level of service — 120% 2.4 +/- The current amount of acres of close -in accessible neighborhood parkland for every 1,000 residents of Baytown. Bergeron Park in Baytown is an example of an ideal neighborhood park. Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan % mile +/- Preferred maximum distance for access to parkland or green space throughout Baytown 32% +/- Approximate number of homes in Baytown in 2010 that are within 1/4 mile of a park or green space Distribution — Since neighborhood parks serve as a central gathering place for neighborhood residents, accessibility is a critical component of these parks more so than any other type of park. As discussed earlier, the preferred ideal service area for access to a park in any neighborhood in Baytown in the future is a quarter (1/4) mile. The maximum service area for a neighborhood park is 1/2 mile. In no case should access to this close -in park require that a young person cross a major collector or arterial road. This goal will result in neighborhood parks that are by design more centralized in their neighborhoods so as to improve access. Note that for the purpose of access, every park, school play area, trail corridor or even community park in Baytown is considered as the "neighborhood" park for the areas close to the park. The map on the following page illustrates the distribution and service areas for neighborhood parks in Baytown. Future needs of neighborhood parks to meet the target level of service are summarized below. Table 5-2 on the following page illustrates current parks in Baytown that provide close -in neighborhood access to parkland. Table 5-1 Neighborhood Parks Summary (Surplus or Deficit) Recommended Level of Service — 2 +/- acres per every 1,000 residents Recommended target Level of Access — 60% of all homes in Baytown will be within 1/4 mile walking distance from a neighborhood park. Year 2010 Current 2010 need with 70,871 population — target of 142 acres, a deficit of 54 acres +/- Access in 2010 — 32% of all homes within '/< mile — 53% of goal of 60%, deficit of 47% 46 Year 2020 Projected Need with 75,379 population — target of 150 acres, a deficit of 62 acres +/- Projected Access in 2020 — Up to 5,400+/- new dwelling units, requires development of 3 to 5 new parks to reach target level of 60% of all homes within % mile. Year 2030 Projected Need with 77,790 population — target of 156 acres, a deficit of 68 acres +/- Projected Access in 2030 — Up to 2,700+/- new dwelling units over 2020 level, requires development of 2 to 3 new parks over 2020 level to reach target level of 60% of all homes within'/ mile. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ' r, • el• BAYTOWN • ..........i S • • •Dmpte. C71Jf1D31`/i9W D . ?Jiffs: BNVOWN t o Villa Perk >� St'oteord Pork afire; - »-no! Pork • gn!p+as Sbo?s Co'reler Gh.Ay" Ean,o Mae ., Acs..niter Pork 1-+ Cea C' Bo,m as. Mmds Co,*4 Pa,k Syce! Comp,,, 1 _ WW *y..�ev 1,� . � a te) i E er teen aomtr t j �� ' '.-- / ,'ce Course - cJ G;i1 a) Soo 30 Qa i`rl�"rr1 � vi3J Stich ny Car. Lore WO Donets!. ay own Parks and Recreation Master Plan Legend ▪ Ill Mile Service Area 1/2 Mile Service Area III Non -city parks I/I Mie Service Area Non -city p04 I /2 Mite Service Are: City Limits Ell Limits Harris/Chambers County limits ACluatic Center CO City Hall A Library O Fee Station J Police Station Cary of Baytown Ports Non -city Parks . Gott Courses . Schools Creeks/Streans . PoocIplor . BaysP ater ▪ ExxanNnabi• Cr), of Baytown Parks legend Name lknteook Pot it leagued Women toter Pot kekalee Pork It to Wgn School open Space kayoed Pork t Wclnhad 10 Una* Cedar lark layown Nature Cents 11 MoekN St hapedy Iaylown Soccer Park 12 Mcaroy Pork krgeran Pat 32 N.0 took Pik Ncenkmid lot 14 Newcastle Pork luwie Schad Pork 11 Nat llle league Park Norwood Park 4 Pelt, Pork I W.C. NMton Pak 71 Republic diem Ply, 2 lack terror, Pork 11 loreond Pak 1 Carer loon Pork 44 IIC hope, 1 Centel Meighh Port 11 Iepi Pat I Centel lehe League Pork 42 Prided Park / Nand* .aorerum and Pork tl bore School Pak 1 Dole Steer Perk M Woke Park 1 Doke IN! Pak IS Word load Property 20 rod IMt, League Perk 4 Wayne Gay Spoon Creepier 1 Ed&Maen Park I7 Wed tokd Grose Creek I key Acre Wood Iutur, Ira! 4 Westwood Pork 11 honk D. Murdoch Pork (j Commune, Cents 25 goo,, Creek Pak 0 loylown *Awe Center 1/ I.C. Hello.ay Pork O Wetlands Center 27 WL leakier Perk ,= 0 3000 s.000 ,W'T:a I8.D00 @fit y own Parks and Recreation Master Plan ,�— Legend Chun It31%Q3+I Eyegreen Point Got Course BAYZOW 3�Jcfl CIly . Under ed Areaf wth No Access Ia Ne bglwad P9b \ City limits EE1 4WMIs Harris/Chambers County limits Aquatic Center 0 City Holl . I00y 0 Fre Station v Po!ice Station �'.. City of Bby'own Parks . Non -city Parks . Gott Courses . Schooh Creeks/Streams . Poodpbm . Boys/Woter . EuonMobii City o' Baytown Parks Legend Name /1e.Eroot Port 18 league of Women toren tot lartaao Park 71 lee Mgt ktoor Open Space laya1E Iark WOHnpare >D Imam Ceders Pot layaen Nature Centkr SI Marker St. Properly loykm Soccer Park 11 Matey Post Women Post 11 N C. lode Peek kronen/Id Part Se Newcastle lot bete ktaor Pot 15 Nor* Lite league Port Irio sood 1w4 11 Pay Part 0 W.C. 1dan Park M teed:tic A loot lam 1 I4101 Terrace Part SI tosekna Pak 7 Carr tones Pork b ITC hopeey 1 Certrd Mounts Poo Il Peps Park Centro 1Mle league Pork Q IMMan Pork 1 Chocks Al0os*um oM Port U Prom kt0W/o4 1 pale Steel Post N goer Port lute IC Part 45 tore load PmgN/y tad Utle league Pert e{ Wayne Way Spark CamMes Iddle Horan Port 41 Wed Fort d Goose Creek Foty Acre Weed Mum hat 11 Westwood Post r boot 1. Mudoct lost Q COMM * Center S Goose Creek Park 0 boyloen bole C.MN Nokmoy Pat 0 oliondr deem 1 WL Jenkins Pao ri1J11n IYa �Y BAY•TOWN BJII WestsY.. Park 1r/ Godse'Creee k fa. POt od Rollo 9 41 'B �oyl note Pork 17 ter. r� Roseland Park CIE;3@i 4170 ownow P sac c idwri i i)iej 3?dchi?y 1r61, Icy Collor lake Our.,cke 0 3000 Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan Legend gg Mile Ac_Ccess to City Owned Communlry Parks 2 Mile munity PaAcc4ess to rksNon-City Com City Loth 81 '.units Norte/Chambers County Um is A W Olic Center • City NCR • library d Fie Station • Police Station . City of Baytown Parks . Non -city ?arks ▪ Golf Courses . Schools Creeks/Streams ▪ FbodOlon . Pays/Water ▪ tosonMabl 6 A00 12 000 18.000 —,Jrzzn ftX�iT �i Ci1111113)lie / Bemis Coo Cer Co c.. yt �1 4 ® � r0 ©-1\ t t 1- a►rafr Pomt• j Gbe Cou,se-41 Moaoaco Pn439aa Collar lake ay own Parks and Recreation Master Plan Legend \ Cry 1-c, El .k.lr, I, Clry hS 0 ED'uy d F+e 0 Poke Sofion CM of Baytown Ports . NOntily °arks . God Courses ▪ Schools Q Creeks/Sheams ✓ Oro, f- City of Boyfown Packs Legend Nome Mestet It PWh II I011dee eta 1+ leklenePMt&Wale0M SO 0NOW! NOW Center SI Iaybwn Soccer Pork 32 lemma, Port 33 kcMortice Parr ]t Some School reek 35 Manaod fork 34 I WC. Ireton Pork 31 i lock terrace Pork 3t 3 Career lanes Pork /0 1 Cued Meight Pork II I teed Lett kogye Pork 42 I CMldker NCwehen one Pork 13 I Dale Stott Pork 11 I Doke NW Pak IS 70 Pod Me league Pot 11 71 IOde Nunn Pot 17 73 Iony h.c,e Wood future hoi II 21 honk a Maeda/ Pak Q 25 Grow Creek Pak O 21 SC Nolm.ay Perk O 9 W1 Jenkins Pork lecgce of Women Palen Pork lee Nlgt School Open Space Ikrcoln Cedon Pon, Mate 31. hopey McElroy Pork SIC rook Pork Mercoshe Pork North Me Wogoe Pork Polly Pork Republic of Teem Prom 0oulond Pork elC Properly Tejm Pork undod Pork haris k1ool Pork Mahn Port Word Rood Property Moyne Groy Spat Complex Wed Fork Of Goose Creek Weckood Pork Community Center Ipyloen NNure Center Wello ds Center Chin If1.D •• • • • • • • • • Chapter 5 I A Whole New Ball Game Table 5-2 Parks Providing Close -in Neighborhood Access in Baytown Park Name Overall Acrea • e Type Existing Neighborhood Parks N 1- Allenbrook Park Und. Dev. 7.22 N 2- Barkaloo Park 6.55 N 6- Bergeron Park 1.43 N 8- Bowie School Park 2.00 • • • • N • • • • • • • • • • do • • • • • • • • • 9- Briarwood Park 11- Brownwood Park 12- Busch Terrace Park 13- Carver Jones Park 14- Central Heights Park 18- Dale Street Park 21- Eddie Huron Park 24- Frank D. Murdoch Park 28- League of Women Voters Park afkAAGGDIn Cedars Park 31- Market St. Property 32- McElroy Park 33- N.C. Foote Park 34- Newcastle Park 36- Pelly Park 38- Republic of Texas Plaza 41- Tejas Park 43- Travis School Park 44- Walker Park 0.23 1.38 3.09 2.46 0.17 5.00 0.69 12.04 0.54 5.00 4.37 7.37 3.34 5.72 5.00 7.44 1.22 2.39 Total Acres of Nei • hborhood Park 0.00 88.15 Other Parks that enhance neighborhood access W.C. Britton Park Goose Creek Park Unidad Park Wayne Gray Sports Complex Roseland Park J.C. Hollaway Park Westwood Park 22.45 17.00 15.75 10.00 10.5 5.0 3.0 Total - Other Contributin • Parks 0.00 83.70 Total Acres of Parks Providin • Close in access 0.00 171.85 HALFF • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • HALFF • • Chapter 5 I A Whole New Ball Game Park Name Table 5-4 Community Park Access in Baytown Overall Acrea ' e Type Existing Community Parks C Bayland Park and Waterfront Und. Dev. 14.85 C C C c C/R C C C/SP C C SP W.C. Britton Park Goose Creek Park Unidad Park Duke Hill Park W.L. Jenkins Park (excluding undeveloped area) Community Center area and N.C. Foote Park Ward Road Property Wayne Gray Sports Complex Roseland Park J.C. Hollaway Park Westwood Park 22.45 17.00 15.75 18.30 54.57 30.00 20.00 54.00 21.10 21.56 14.25 Total — Communi Parks 289.0 +/- Distribution — As mentioned before, community parks serve a larger portion of the City. Since they are typically accessed by car, the preferred service area for a community park is approximately two miles. The fast growing parts of Baytown near IH 10 (both north and south of the highway) and east of Cedar Bayou have limited access to community parks. Addressing needs in these areas is a critical action to be addressed over the next decade. • • • • • Regional Parks in Baytown • • • • • • • • • • w • R Eddie V. Gray Wetlands Center • R Bayland Park • R Wa ne Gra Sorts Corn lex and Pirates Ba Water Park • Chapter 5 I A Whole New Ball Game Regional parks are larger parks within a 30 minute to one hour driving distance that serve an entire region and surrounding communities. Like community parks, they serve as locations for larger community events, sports, and activities. Bayland Park, the Wayne Gray Sports Complex, Pirates Bay Water Park, the Baytown Nature Center and the Eddie V. Gray Wetlands Center are all considered regional parks because they draw people from outside of Baytown. Table 5-7 below lists regional parks in Baytown. The total land area for regional parks in Baytown is 523.5 acres. Similar to special purpose parks, there is no specific spatial level of service for regional parks. Park Name Table 5-7 Regional Park Access in Baytown Overall Acrea • e Type Existing Regional Parks R I Baytown Nature Center Total - Regional Parks Und. • Table 5-8 • Regional Park - Existing Level of Service • Regional Parks in Baytown •J. Current acres — 523.5 acres • ♦ Current level of service — 7.39 acres per 1,000 residents of Baytown • • • • Level of Service - Open Space • Open space comes in many forms. It can be the expanses of water and green along Goose Creek or Cedar Bayou, the bay front vistas and restored wetlands of the Nature • Center, or simply the forested areas and ranchland north of IH 10. Open spaces are • the green ribbons that break up the developed areas of the city. Simply because they • are different, these open spaces stand out and make Baytown a more memorable city. • Existing open space in Baytown includes the Chandler Arboretum, Forty Acre Wood Future Trail, Lee High School Open Space, RTC Property, and the West Fork of Goose • Creek Stream. Because of the importance of open space on the overall quality of life in • the city, Baytown should pursue a minimum ratio of 15 acres of open space for every • 1,000 residents. • • r IEHALFF • • Dev. 452.5 2.1 14.9 54.0 523.5 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • HALFF • • Chapter 5 I A Whole New Ball Game • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 111. HALFF • • Chapter 5 I A Whole New Ball Game Table Summary of Park 5-11 Spatial Needs Neighborhood Parks Existing Level of Service — 2.2 acres per 1,000 residents Target Level of Service — 2.0 acres per 1,000 residents Key Action — monitor and require development of neighborhood parks as new areas are developed l Existing amount of acres is adequate, but distribution is lacking in some areas of the City, especially east of Cedar Bayou and in ETJ areas north of IH 10 4 The City should plan for neighborhood parks in all new residential developments. l Adopt a Parkland Dedication Ordinance to assist in acquiring and developing future neighborhood parkland. Community Parks Existing Level of Service — 3.7 acres per 1,000 residents Target Level of Service — 5.0 acres per 1,000 residents Key Action — proactive long range land acquisition or dedication l Existing LOS is 83% of the target level of service. 4. Deficit of 81+/- acres by 2020. l Pursue acquisition of land for community parks north of IH-10 and east of Cedar Bayou. Linear Parks No specific level of service established l Preserve/acquire and develop linear parks along creeks and bayou corridors. Open Space Existing Level of Service — 7.23 acres per 1,000 residents Target Level of Service — 10 to 15 acres per 1,000 residents Key Action — active and proactive preservation in partnership with land owners or dedication l Open space largely concentrated at the Nature Center and along Goose Creek. y Additional preservation needed along Cedar Bayou and waterfront areas of the City. l Open space preserves can be privately owned. 1 The largest need for future parkland is in the form of open space. Regional Parks No specific level of service established Key Action — partner with other cities and counties to jointly develop larger parks l Regional parks needed north of IH 10 and east of Cedar Bayou. Overall Park Spatial Needs Existing Level of Service —14.5 acres per 1,000 residents (City owned parks only) 20.58 acres per 1,000 residents (all area parks) Target Level of Service — 22 acres per 1,000 residents l Because the City is spread out over a large area, access to parkland is the key need. Ali Areas north of Lynchburg -Cedar Bayou Road and east of Cedar Bayou have significant parkland needs. DISTRIBUTION OF BASEBALL FIELDS r1, Legend City limits ETJ limits Harris/Chambers County limits la Aquatic Center 0 City Hall O Library Q Fire Station d Police Station • PARD Centers . City of Baytown Parks IINon -city Ports ill Schools • Creeks/Streams ■ Bays/Water ▪ 6uonucr, Highlands Reservoir:- ;'Black City Facility Non -City Facility /J Mile Service Area 1/2 Mile Service Ar Baytown P'a r-k s a n d Recreation Master Plan 1 inch = 7,500 feet 111 MEW DISTRIBUTION OF BOAT RAMPS Legend • City Limits ETJ Limits • Harris/Chambers County Limits gAquatic Center 0 City Holt Q Library Q fire Station Q Police Station PARD Centers IIICity of Baytown Parks Non -city Parks . Schools Creeks/Streams . Bays/water ■ ExxonMobil Black Due Bay City Facility /2 Mile Service Area Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan 1 inch = 7,500 feet • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • S. HALFF • • Chapter 5 I A Whole New Ball Game 14 Picnic Facilities Current facilities: Tables, benches, BBQ grills, drinking fountains and bicycle racks in most parks. Target level of service: No specific standard; picnic facilities should be planned in every park. Level of need: High Key facility need in all parks. Continue to replace dated tables and benches on a regular basis. Provide clusters of tables in larger parks and designate specific zones for picnicking activities. • !"' t' Picnic Shelters Current number of shelters: 132 shelters citywide Current level of service: 1 shelter for every 535 residents Target level of service: 1 shelter per every 600 to 800 residents 4- Current 2010 need for 70,871 population — 118 shelters, no deficit 4- 2020 need for 75,379 population —125 shelters, no deficit 4- 2030 need for 77,790 population —130 shelters, no deficit Level of need: High In Baytown's most popular parks, shelters are heavily used. Continue to add shaded tables and family shelters in larger parks as they are developed. \ City Limits ETJ limits Harris/Chambers County Limits 112 Aquatic Center O City Hon O Library O Fire Station �i Police Station IXKIILV Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan DISTRIBUTION OF PLAYSCAPES Ra Legend \ City limits ETJ Umifs Narris/Chambers County limits goAquatic Center O City Noll O library O Fire Station O Police Station PARD Centers 1111 City of Baytown Parks 111 Non•city Parks III Schools ▪ Creeks/Streams ■ Bays/Water Exxon V obil Highlands Reservoir LYnchtiv 9;Cedor.Bayae p� 330 P I Grand Parkway Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan 1 inch = 7,500 feet L_ E DISTRIBUTION OF SOCCER FIELDS Legend City Limits ELJ Limits Harris/Chambers County Limits Ca Aquatic Center O City Hall 0 Library Q Fire Station 0 Police Station • PARD Centers . City of Baytown Parks MIvon -city Pats ▪ Schools Q Creeks/Streams . Bays/Water EuonMobii Portway 'Black Duck r 1� .-. City Facility Non -City Facility mile Service Area 72 Mile Service Ar Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan 1 inch = 7,500 feet El DeMWV City limits ETJ limits Harris/Chambers County limits Aquatic Center Q City Hall O library Q Eke Station Q Police Station PARD Centers IIIICity of Baytown Parks Nan -city Parks . Schools Creeks/Streams . Boys/Water ExxonMoba City Facility Non -City Facility V2 Mile Service Area 1l2 Mile Service Ar Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan • • • • Proposed Aquatic Facilities • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • r • • • • • • • • • • •Red: 5 Mile Radius Park Proposed Pool System sop •. Future # North Side , r� A , 1 __�1 .� I X yaps 41.16. VS Wayne Gray _a �, S- orts Co pt i 1,k; McElroy Park -16 4 DoVvntoWn r tor oft* r B eron_ -_ .�. Pell • 2 Mile Radius "••• MEM •Blue: 1 Mile Radius PC C1Tsw6 • A 'h Mile Radius 4 _ • , . _YY SSW aa� I � .Y, soy 2 Ra • c4, Future 0 eland ark • • Source: 2007 Aquatics Master Plan Chapter 5 I A Whole New Ball Game dka Trails (7.13 miles total in area) Current miles of trails: 4.07 miles (City trails only) 3.06 miles (Homeowner or non -City trails) Current level of service: 1 mile of trail for every 17,415 residents (City owned) 1 mile of trail for every 9,940 residents (all trails) Target level of service: 1 mile of trail per 7.500 to 10,000 residents 1 Current 2010 need for 70,871 population — 7.1 to 9.4 miles, potential deficit of 2.3 miles 4- 2020 need for 75,379 population — 7.5 to 10.1 miles, deficit of 0.3 to 3.0 miles .1- 2030 need for 77,790 population — 7.8 to 10.4 miles, deficit of 0.7 to 3.3 miles of trail Level of need: High Trails are discussed in greater detail in Chapter 6. Trails are among the most demanded facilities by City residents, but use is governed by location and ease of access, Jenkins Trails receives a high amount of use as growth occurs in the north and east areas of the City. Continue to lengthen the Goose Creek trail as a regional spine trail leading to the Wayne Gray Sports Complex and Pirates Bay. Develop additional trails along drainage ways and portions of Cedar Bayou. • Table 5-12 summarizes facility needs throughout the City. Facility Summary Current LOS Table 5-12 of Facility Needs Current Amount 2020 Need Based on Population Level of Need Baseball Fields 5.060 14 15 Medium Basketball Courts 2,835 25 21.5 Medium Boat Ramps 11,810 6 8 High Disc Golf Course None 0 3 High Dog Park 1 per City 1 2-3 Medium Fishing Pier 5,905 12 13 Medium Pavilion Shelters 535 132 125 High Picnic Facilities Varies Vanes Varies High Playscapes 2,445 29 38 Medium Practice Backstops 3,220 22 25 Medium Rental Facilities (within parks) 11,810 6 7 Medium Sand Volleyball Courts 23,625 3 7 High Skate Park 35,435 2 1 — 2 Medium Soccer Fields 6,445 11 10 Low Softball Fields 8,860 8 13 Medium Spraygrounds 35,435 2 5 High Aquatic Facilities 35,435 2 2 Low Support Facilities Vanes Varies Varies High Tennis Courts 7,875 9 10 Medium Trails (in miles) 9,940 7.13 10.1 High • • IL HALFF • • • • Chapter 5 I A Whole New Ball Game • Online Survey Results • • More lighting in parks • Teen center for teen activities • • Trails • Lighted fishing pier • • Additional fishing piers • Indoor recreation center • • Playgrounds • • Pavilions for group activities • o� • • • • Most Important Facility — Residents were then asked to write which of the three facilities • provided in the list were the most important to them. The results are listed below. ID Mail -out Survey Online Survey • • 1 Trails 32% ▪ More lighting in parks 15% • • Teen center 28% 4. Playgrounds 8% • 4. More lighting in parks 27% 4. Community gardens 8% • 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% Very important or important 70% 30% ■ Very Important ■ Important ■ Unimportant ■ Very Unimportant •4. Indoor recreation center 26% 4. Fishing piers 7% • 4. Playgrounds 21% 4. Fitness classes 7% • • • As part of the planning process, several stakeholder groups were contacted for an interview. Over the course of several days, the leaders and boards of 15 different organizations and • interest groups met to discuss their interests and concerns with regards to parks and • • • HALFF • • Not important %2 6% 2 I59,', 4% i I 8% 3% -111 7% 'II s% 11% 4% 90% 100% • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Chapter 5 I A Whole New Ball Game Baytown Planning Department Preserve open space along Grand Parkway. It is very scenic with nice view sheds. The marina and Evergreen Point are assets to the City. Need interconnected trails and safe routes to schools. Need preservation standards for the core part of the City. Interested in creating paddling trails and greenbelts along Cedar Bayou. Recreation Staff Interested in having an indoor recreation center with a teen center component. A state-of-the-art facility will grow their programming. There are no soccer fields in the east. Very limited adult programs. They would like to offer adult soccer and basketball, but they do not have the facilities. Need more indoor rental facilities in the parks. Park Maintenance and Operations Staff The amount of parkland is growing each year, but maintenance staff has not increased accordingly. It is inconvenient that they have to drive to the Public Works Department to fuel their trucks and tractors. Graffiti problems at Jenkins Park, especially around skate park. There are no incentives for crew members to get licensed and lower pay than surrounding cities, so turnover is very high. Aquatics Staff Continue implementing the recommendations of the Aquatics Master Plan and install splash pads. Nature Center and Wetlands Center Staff Want an education building at the Nature Center. Need a lift gate at the Nature Center to make people stop and pay the entry fee. They need better marketing of the centers and programs, and would like to have control of the website off the City's main page. Need interpretive trails, more trash bins, directional signs, and storage facility. City Management Variety of trail surfaces to accommodate runners. Places for kayaking. Pursue partnerships for multi -use facilities. Develop a plan for preservation of wooded areas. • • Resource Based Needs Assessment • • The resource based assessment addresses key physical features of the City that may be incorporated as potential recreational opportunities. Both man-made and natural features can • be considered. The City of Baytown has a number of landscape features that should be • preserved and/or adapted for recreation use and open space preservation where feasible. These include Cedar Bayou, Goose Creek, rural landscapes in the north, historic/cultural • landscapes, drainage corridors, utility right-of-ways and railroad right-of-ways. • • • • • • HALFF • • • • • • • • • • • Chapter 5 I A Whole New Ball Game and Cedar Bayou flows through the eastern portion of the City. Both have the potential to become linear parks with trails, as well as offering paddling trail opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. drkir. i Rural Landscapes • i Rural landscapes may be described as areas of natural • vegetation, wind row trees established along fence lines, agricultural lands with limited cultivation and domestic • animals, as well as farmsteads. Visual rural landscapes • are defined by long and open vistas. Such landscapes may be experienced in various ways, including the use of • hike and bike trails, and driving along rural roads. To be effective, it requires expansive lands • seen over a distance and uncluttered by development, signs and utilities. This may be achieved with winding roads, well defined views, and strong controls over signs and building • structure placement. • A manner in which the rural experience can be maintained without compromising development • opportunities is through the protection of floodplains along creeks and bayous, and the • preservation of open space by applying principles of Conservation Planning and Design. These principles cluster homes closer together leaving the remaining lands in a natural state. • One of the most basic principles is to demand single loaded roads whereby roads serve as • access to developed areas, yet at the same time provide rural experiences through views on • the surrounding landscapes. • • Right -of -Ways • Utility right-of-ways are linear in nature which makes them • ideal for hike and bike trails. Developing trails along utility • right-of-ways and other easements have often been difficult in the Houston area because of restrictions in place by the utility • companies. However, there is still an opportunity for trails • and the City should continue to pursue a partnership for trail development along these corridors. • Railroad right-of-ways have two characteristics that also make • them ideal for trails: its linear nature and its gentle topography • change. An added aesthetic value of railroad right-of-ways is • that trees along its length often provide special character and natural interest. • • • • • • HALFF • • Many of the railroads in Baytown are still heavily used for freight and cargo. Where there is adequate right-of-way or where the rail has been abandoned, the City should actively pursue developing trails along these corridors. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Chapter 6 The Front Runner CHAPTER 6 — TRAIL OPPORTUNITIES IN BAYTOWN Why Plan for Trails in Baytown • Baytown has enormous potential for trail opportunities along the bayous and creeks. In • conversations with residents of the City, trails were mentioned time and time again as one of • the principle recreation facilities they would love to have. No matter where one goes in Texas or across the United States, trails are popular. They are extensively used and enjoyed by the • residents in those places. Trails offer many benefits such as: • AI, They can be used by everyone, from the very young to the very active to the elderly. • Trails provide opportunities to engage in exercise in a fun setting, whether by simple • walking or through more strenuous use such as running or cycling. They help us lead • a healthier lifestyle. • Trails provide alternative ways to commute to key city destinations such as work, • schools, and retail areas. • • • • IL HALFF • • .‘ -tliti at e "Trails not only connect us with each other, they connect us with ourselves... Communities with no place to daydream are communities without imagination." David Bunnell, President Rails -to -Trails Conservancy, 2001 • • • Chapter 6 I The Front Runner • walking their dog. These users can occupy a significant portion of the trail due to walking side by side. • Joggers or runners — typically these users exercise at a higher speed than walkers. They • often prefer softer trail surfaces such as decomposed granite trails. • Inline skaters —typically these users utilize trails for fun and fitness. • Due to the swinging motion of their arms to increase momentum, • skaters occupy a large cross section of a trail. • ; Recreational or inexperienced cyclists — typically these users are interested in exercise and activity, as well as scenic appeal. Ease of • access to the trail system is important to them. They prefer more • interesting trail alignments rather than trails that favor higher speeds. • This group may also include children and youth going to school. • • • • • Mountain bikers — these trail users trail on more natural trail surfaces, and prefer trails with challenging terrain. Higher speed cyclists and commuters — these riders favor roadways over off-street trails. For off-street trails, alignments with shallower curves are favored by these users which allow for higher speeds. Increase trail widths are recommended to reduce conflicts with other trail users. • f' - Equestrian riders — these users require completely separate trails • from other users to ensure the safety of the riders, other users and the • horses. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • HALFF • • Paddling trail users — paddling trails allow access to water features for canoeing and kayaking. These users often require docks at both the starting and take out locations. Parking near these locations should be provided for boat trailers. or!, • • • • Chapter 6 I The Front Runner • Paddling trails — paddling trails could be developed along Cedar Bayou and Goose Creek. Canoes and kayaks can be used along these paddling trails. Marker poles with information are needed to designate the trail, and to create interest. • On -street or striped bicycle lanes — off street trails that are intended to accommodate bicycles are referred to as shared use paths. Most trails should be • designed to readily accommodate bicycles. On -street bicycle facilities should be • identified by the City's Transportation Department that permit relatively easy riding. Specific facilities for cyclists include striped bicycle lanes that are a minimum of four • feet in width from the street edge of the gutter pan, or the use of the "sharrow" which • indicates a shared use lane. The sharrow is in the final stages of approval for inclusion in the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), but . municipalities may apply for permission to use this new symbol prior to its formal • adoption. • • • • • Trail Amenities • • The following is a list of typical amenities that can be found along trails or at trailheads. • Water fountains — water fountains provide drinking water for people, and in some • cases pets. Water fountains should always be placed in shade or under trees to help • keep the water cool. • Bike racks — bicycle racks allow trail users to safely park their bicycles if they wish to • stop along the way, particularly at parks and other desirable destinations. • Interpretive installations — interpretive installations and signs can enhance the trail experience by providing information about the history of Baytown. Installations can • also discuss local ecology, environmental concerns, and other educational information. • Art installations — local artists can be commissioned to provide art for the trail • system, making it uniquely distinct. Many trail art installations are functional as well • as aesthetic, as they may provide places on which to sit and play. • Restrooms — restrooms should be placed where appropriate such as at major • trailheads or in city parks along the trail route. Pedestrian -scale lighting — pedestrian -scale lighting improves safety and enables the trail to be used throughout • • • • • HALFF • m 111111. 4,141 • • • • Chapter 6 I The Front Runner • openings between horizontal or vertical members must be small enough that a 4-inch sphere • cannot pass through them in the lower 27 inches. For the portion of pedestrian railing that is higher than 27 inches, openings may be spaced such that an 8-inch sphere cannot pass • through them. Decking material should be firm and stable. Bridge approaches and span • should not exceed 5% slope for ADA access. • • • • • Bridges should accommodate maintenance vehicles if necessary. Bridge structures should be out of the 100-year floodplain. Footings should be located on the outside of the stream channel at the top of the stream bank. The bridge should not constrict the floodway. All bridges and footings in the stream corridor will need to be designed by a registered geotechnical or structural engineer. Cost, design, and environmental compatibility will dictate which structure is best for the trail corridor. • Underpasses provide a more direct route to go under a busy street. From the standpoint of a user, underpasses should be well lit and attractive, and • most of all project a sense of security. A minimum clearance of 8 feet is recommended, but 10 feet is • preferred. All vehicular bridges added in Baytown in • the future that cross an identified potential trail corridor should be designed to accommodate a shelf • for a trail. • • • Trailheads and Access Points • A very high level of accessibility is desired for • municipal trail corridors. More access points increase a sense of security since they encourage ready use of • the trail by area residents. A well used trailhead will most likely be at parks. Access points should be as little as 1/8 of a mile apart for neighborhood trails, and • typically no more than 1/4 mile to 1/2 mile for all other trail types. Major trailheads can be spaced 1/2 mile or • further apart. Two types of neighborhood trail access • points include: • 0 • • • • • • • HALFF • • 1 Access from adjacent neighborhood streets . Access from specific trailheads in parks • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • w HALFF • • Value added by Trails Recent studies from cities across the United States and in Texas illustrate the potential value of trails to homeowners in a community. In a recent study conducted for a similarly sized city in Texas, The average value citywide of homes closer than 600 feet from a trail corridor were found to have increased more than 10 %over a 10 year period over homes that were further than 600 feet from a trail corridor. Proximity to attractive walking and exercising trails is a strong selling point in helping homes sell for a higher amount and in helping neighborhoods retail value. Chapter 6 I The Front Runner Property Value Change in Round Rock Proximity to Greenbelts & Linear Parks 9250,007 $225,000 8200,000 s175,000 5150.0m $125.om s100,o00 $75,0m s50,000 1997 1998 1999 2m0 2001 2002 r —e—Greenbelts / Linear !irks t OUside Firk Roxmty (al parks) 2003 2007 2008 A Recommended Level of Service for Trails in Baytown Trails were among the highest requested facilities by citizens of Baytown as part of the citizen input process. Based on citizens' requests and public input, as well as the many opportunities for trails that exist in Baytown, the following target level of service is recommended for Baytown. Target Level of Service for Trails in Baytown Availability Level of Service - a target level of service of one mile of trail for every 7,500 residents of the City is recommended by the Year 2020. This includes both City and non - City trails, as long as they are within the City limits or its ETJ. This would require the development of approximately 3 to 6 miles of trail over the next decade in and around Baytown. Access Level of Service for Trails —as a target goal, 60% of all residential homes in Baytown will have a trail within one quarter mile by the year 2020. Currently, only about 25% of all homes fall within that distance. 1 mile per 9,940 residents - Current ratio of trails to population in Baytown, including all publicly accessible trails, whether developed by the City or others 1 mile for 7,500 residents Target ratio of trails by the year 2020 iml • • • • • • • • Recommendations Priority Trail Development • 1. Extend the Holloway/Jenkins Park trail to allow for additional use. As • one of the most popular trails in Baytown, the trail needs to be extended to avoid • overcrowding and to accommodate population growth in the area. • 2. Extend Goose Creek trail north to the Wayne Gray Sports Complex and the Pirates Bay Aquatic Center - Again, because of the length of this corridor • and the need for acquisition or alternative routing in some areas, as well as the • desire to include corridor amenities with this trail, this corridor may need to be • developed in multiple phases. • 3. - Connect existing trails to the Eddie V. Gray Wetlands Education and Recreation Center — extend trails from Goose Creek Park and from N.C. Foote • Park to the Wetlands Center along Market Street. • 4. Develop a waterfront trail along Evergreen Road — Acquire easements or • use existing right of way to develop a promenade like trail overlooking Tabbs • Bay. Because of the exposed location and the desire to include overlook type amenities with this trail, this corridor may need to be developed in multiple • phases. • 5. Develop a trail or corridor along a roadway that connects Jenkins Park • and the Wayne Gray Sports Complex — because of the need for acquisition of • easements or right of way, this segment will take more time and is shown as medium term priority. However, review of alternative alignments should proceed • as quickly as possible before development intensifies in the area. Installing • sidewalks during the extension of Baker Road can help being to connect these • two parks. • 6. Acquire rights of way or easements for nature trails along the upper • reaches of Cedar Bayou — work with area industries and property owners to secure trail corridors. Develop strategies that address property owner requirements for access • and security. Chapter 6 I The Front Runner • • • • • • • • • 11 ip HALFF • • • • • • / 1 1 • • Or II +I 0 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 401 HALFF • • Chapter 6 I The Front Runner Trail Corridor Recommendations The following trail corridor recommendations summarize the key trail recommendations over the next decade. Trail segment recommendations are shown on this map and are discussed on the following pages. These trails are targeted for implementation over the 10 year lifespan of this Master Plan. Symbols are used to indicate the recommended priority level for each potential corridor. H = High Priority M = Medium Priority LT = Long Term • • • Chapter 6 I The Front Runner • Corridor 2 (Very High importance) - Extend Goose Creek North to the Wayne Gray Sports Complex • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 1 HALFF • • The extension of the Goose Creek trail northward into the fast growing northern parts of Baytown is one of the most important trail corridors to develop. Ultimately, this trail corridor could extend beyond Interstate 10, and literally become the off-street "spine" of Baytown. It could extend more than 10 miles, connect much of far north Baytown to the wetlands and bay front parks. This ultimately is the key trail corridor in Baytown, and could be one of the premier trails in the greater Houston metro area. Two alternative corridors could be considered, one utilizing drainage corridors, and the other using the edges of utility corridors. Both also connect to Sterling High School and the North Little League complex before terminating at the Sports Complex and the Aquatics Complex. Because it is a spine trail, this trail should be developed with a concrete surface, but future additions could add an adjacent crushed rock running surface. Potential Trail Length — approximately 12,000 to 16,000 linear feet Recommended Trail type — concrete Potential Trail Cost - $2,500,000 to $3,500,000 Recommended Priority — Very High Recommended Timeframe for Implementation — within five years (by 2015) Pro VIIID Pork rSt,Dnue,q0 Pao POS ED 4 R A PP©f P!J ;)040Q© 0a 000 Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan Legend ••• Priority Trolls Recorrpssnoolrrns c. o eropose0 Parkway Sicewgts ••• Fr(0.0113 opwnmoief ••a PoimialVwp. Ccmacl h,r of �• 11h5ng hots CM kmlt Ell Wmi1 Nyek/ChotlOm County Wes Aauolic CMM ® Gh/NOR • Wrote • Fos S'mron Q Peke Slolpn Gty c! Boras, eosin ▪ NOn.city aml . Golf Courses . Schools C Cseesoneemn ■ tan/water CByof Boylown FCrks Lege, 14.4.4 21 1•000.01110.0e1121. 1.INu010r1 21 lee owl to. open Space loylar ,1v211a1.0,1 1 0n oar Ceevs 1a1 yym•n Howe Celts 11 11.0111 M10.12 laym•nlacan lvl 1 N lnpnpn Sol 1 Cw1eel la 1 1e•001eba me St.1.• 11 1.1611110.....I. 1mn0oo bt 1 1011y tort 1C 102001aa 1 Iepuew al le,. Km loch Imacelnl }I 1e•1001vl Cen. lone, lva 10 no hews Ce.0111.2.11va 11 1.311. 20.01 score uopue Sal42 1100.010 a ChaMw l2owvm all tort U 1s0m101.11v1 Dore meet Im N Du. Nllva el 1100.0o4Propen, }1 !en Mk leopx 1. 11 1102n• Gay but Camp•. 11 !Me Now SalW.I. NGome Geri }p 1,N2 0are112000201.e1r11 11 100*01.0021.Ial 0 Camrrunlry Genic 11 Grose Geealea . urvYU lmt1a110e 11 IC Noy• 0 1eN.12Ler1 11 1111 CeMr 6,000 2 000 Legend 1 r ice. ••• Proposed Trail Recommenoations u. Polenio Utkly Condor trail Opporlunies sae Potenlro long Term Trail Opportunhes CO Proposed Pptway Sidewalks ■ City limits rt ETJ limits P Horns/C1ml0os Cooly limits . City olkdylown Pots Nan -City Pohs ▪ Gd9 Canes ■ Schools (.feels/$Ireoms Fbodplan ▪ Bays/woler ▪ Ex`onidnd t•Iw..r•f. Nft.. Jr t Cedor BOYoo Rood it t tYnchbu/g k ;oose Creek ountry Club ry �r0• iemertoe lill0U110:�Jp ©04O�4Q ' ,rih-� D a rf Nye 0000 ` *4, oeyE: NeeGolege�3 O tee' r9 Ro 4.44/ * }lk , g■ ®® oaooa. ■ • ; a+ce t 1,0 De 2avala emecl'ary 4'sil Li t, ,�_j 1' C / eamozi acne • • • • Chapter 6 I The Front Runner • Potential Trail Cost - $250,000 • Recommended Priority — High Recommended Timeframe for Implementation — within five years (by 2015) • Recommended Timeframe for Implementation — within five years (by 2015) • Segment D - (High importance) — Connect Goose Creek Trail to Downtown Baytown — by • extending the trail from the Wetlands Center east towards Bicentennial Park and Lee College, a short additional link can be made to new pedestrian walks along Texas Avenue and to a • central downtown "plaza" near the Brunsen Theater. A major pedestrian crossing along • Market Street to Bicentennial Park will be required. • Potential Trail Length — approximately 2,000 to 2,500 linear feet Recommended Trail type — concrete • Potential Trail Cost - $250,000 to 400,000 • Recommended Priority — High • Recommended Timeframe for Implementation — within five years (by 2015) • • • • • • • • • V • • 0 0 0 • • • • • • • • • HALF • • • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • Corridor 4 (High importance) — Develop waterfront trails along Evergreen Road • The waterfront along Evergreen Road overlooking Tabbs Bay can become a unique trail • opportunity for Baytown. Developing trails in this area is challenged by extensive ongoing well production and by the lack of city -owned right of way for trails. However, Baytown has a • unique opportunity to create a trail attraction in this area. • The waterfront trail should be developed in phases. An initial phase would connect from the • existing trail in Bayland Park to Evergreen Point. A crossing over the mouth of Goose Creek along the existing Grand Parkway bridge is required, and can be accomplished with lane width • reductions or the use of existing pavement. The waterfront near the east side of the mouth of • Goose Creek has extensive well sites which may limit the ability to develop a waterfront trail in • this area. If an easement or corridor for a waterfront trail cannot be acquired, the right of way of Evergreen Road can be considered as a route for the trail. A key overlook node should be • developed in the vicinity of Evergreen Point, and could include a fishing pier as an attraction. • A second phase would continue the bayfront trail to the Goose Creek drainage channel, • terminating in a second overlook node. A third phase that would require the use of flood channels and property owner agreements to run trails on private lands could eventually • connect the waterfront to Roseland Park. This phase could run adjacent to Evergreen Road in • the vicinity of the golf course, but would probably still require some right of way. Additional small overlook node parks could be developed as funding allowed. • The majority of this corridor is within flood prone lands. However, major portions of the right of • way for this corridor are not controlled by the City of Baytown and require property owner • permission to use their property. The costs for this corridor include an allowance for limited property acquisition around node parks but none along trail corridors at this time. Additional • pedestrian bridges may be required as detailed alignments are developed, and costs for these • bridges are not included in the cost projections shown below. Potential Trail Length • Phase 1 - approximately 10,000 linear feet • Phase 2 — 8,000 linear feet • Phase 3 — 8,000 to 10,000 linear feet Recommended Trail type — concrete • Potential Trail Cost • Phase 1- $1,500,000 to $3,000,000 (with limited property acquisition for overlook parks only) • Phase 2 - 1,500,000 to $2,000,000 (with limited property acquisition for • overlook parks only) • Phase 3 - $1,500,000 to $2,500,000 (does not include property acquistion) Recommended Priority • - Phase 1 - High • Phase 2 - Medium Priority Phase 3 - Longer Term • Recommended Timeframe for Implementation - Phase 1 - within five to ten years • (by 2020), Phases 2 and 3, beyond ten years. • • • •,,, el• -1 .4 sue:.'... -/ 7i11mp • • • • • • Chapter 6 I The Front Runner • Corridor 5 (Medium Level of Importance) — Develop a Trail Connection between Jenkins • Park and the Wayne Gray Sports Complex • Prior to significant development occuring in the area, a corridor connecting these two major parks should be identified and preserved. Opportunities for this connection occur along East • Cedar Bayou Lynchburg Road, or in yet to be developed areas south of that road. Right of • way could be acquired through development donations as the area begins to develop. • Potential Trail Length — approximately 10,000 linear feet • Recommended Trail type — concrete Potential Trail Cost - $1,500,000 to $2,000,000 (excluding right of way acquisition if • necessary) • Recommended Priority — High Recommended Timeframe for Implementation — within ten to fifteen years (by 2020 or • beyond) • • Corridor 6 (High Level of Importance, but ongoing for next 10 years as opportunities • Natural trail corridors should be acquired and developed along drainage areas and bayous • throughout greater Baytown. Specific areas for development of nature trails (and in some • cases all weather concrete trails where appropriate) should include the Baytown Nature • Center, the north extension of Goose Creek, and Cedar Bayou. • Potential Trail Length — determined as available • Recommended Trail type — can range from nature trails to concrete Potential Trail Cost — determined on a case by case basis. Immediate priority should be on • acquiring easements or corridor right of way along scenic routes and significant natural • features Recommended Priority — High for acquisition/preservation, medium to longer term for • development • Recommended Timeframe for Implementation — within ten to fifteen years (by 2020 or beyond) • arise) — Acquire corridors along drainage areas and natural corridors throughout the City and its ETJ • • • • • • • • • • • • fL HALFF • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • • • • • • • Regional Trail Connections H-GAC's regional bikeway plan identifies potential connections from Baytown to adjacent cities. Of primary importance is the northern segment of Goose Creek with its crossing under IH 10 and potential connectivity to the greater Houston area, as well as trail connections to downtown Baytown. Bicycle and pedestrian facilities for crossing the Fred Hartman Bridge to La Porte, Deer Park and central Houston are not currently available, but should be pursued if opportunities arise in the future. Specific Implementation Strategies for Trails in Baytown The six major trail initiatives targeted for the next 10 years and beyond would require a total of $14,000,000 in funding in 2010 dollars. Allowing for escalation over a ten year period, the funding requirement would be in the vicinity of $16,000,000. Funding for trails can be derived from three main sources: 1) city funding sources, 2) grant funds, and 3) privately built facilities by other governmental entities or by development entities. 1 �'t , , 1 r i y , J oreRsolaca One., faleaseCa•. —r �M�Yra—e e..e•—•%�MGr+Yn .y B • • � 1• • I 900001.01. "wears law Pycike Mir. asose e.i.. ....... 7t c.... rod 1,0 .MM • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ,a • • BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • Chapter 6 I The Front Runner City funding sources — City funds for Tess costly trail segments, typically under $500,000 • may be allocated on an annual basis by project. Connections from the existing Goose Creek Trail to nearby parks and the downtown area can be funded in this way. These funds may be • general fund allocations, CIP designated, or sales tax funded projects. • For segments with higher costs, certificates of obligation or voter approved general obligation bonds can be used. In recent years, trail initiatives throughout Texas that have been taken to • voters have generally faired very well. This reflects significant resident interest in trails, and public input received during this process mirrors attitudes from other areas of Texas. • • Sales tax funding from the City's 4B tax set asides can be a major trail development funding source. In particular, because these funds may be available in larger amounts on a shorter • notice, they can be used as all or some of the local match for grant applications. • Grant Funding Sources for Trails - Grant funding sources through Texas Parks and Wildlife • and federal funds administered by the Texas Department of Transportation are the major non- • city funding sources for trails. Federal funding sources as administered by TxDOT are typically more complex and include significant environmental, administration and design • review steps. However, if applied for in large enough amounts, they may be worth pursuing • for major trail corridors in the City. A 2009 call for projects by TxDOT resulted in the award of $73,000,000 in funding for over 40 projects throughout Texas. Given the lack of other major • funding sources, Baytown should continue to pursue these funds, but with enough design • review to understand the needs of each project that is under consideration. One additional source of funding for trails is the federal Safe Routes to School program, which can help • improve sidewalks and in some cases nearby trails or routes through neighborhoods. • Requirements for trails to be developed by Private entities — in a handful of cities in • Texas, parkland dedication ordinances require that trail segments illustrated on a citywide • trails master plan be developed by private entities where those trails cross property that is being developed. The City of Baytown should consider adding such a requirement to the • City's development regulations. In many cases, some developers will add trails with or without • an ordinance. An ordinance simply levels the playing field so that all new developments must • add trails that meet the City's requirements for trail type (as specified in the master plan), width (typically a minimum width of 8') and pavement thickness (typically 5+ inches for long term • durability. • Trail Development as part of Storm Water Initiatives — improvements to existing channels • or new drainage channels throughout Baytown should be automatically considered as • potential locations for trails. Since right of way for future expansion and maintenance is usually included, these corridors can also be adapted for trails relatively easily. A key • consideration is the relationship of adjacent homes to the drainage corridor. Where trails are • to be added, neighborhoods should be designed with homes that are set back from the trail or with streets that parallel the trail corridor. In addition, drainage corridors should be set up to • be beautified or should preserve existing trees along their fringes. • • • • • HALFF Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Reservation of Right of Way for Parkway Trails — in areas where safe off-street connections are not available, future rights of way for wide "parkway sidewalks" should be preserved. Examples of this type of a pedestrian and bicycle corridor are shown on this page. Where implemented, the walkway is typically 8 to 10" in width, and area development is limited in the number of driveways that can cross the parkway trail. These corridors can also be landscaped and converted into attractive boulevard treatments. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • to • • BAYT04VN • • • 101111411111114111111141101191!•111011s1111114111111111414,111141II••11104141404, • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •' • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • HALFF • • Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball CHAPTER 7 - RECOMMENDATIONS Make no small plans. They have no magic to stir humanity's blood and probably themselves will not be realized. Make big plans; aim high in hope and work, remembering that a noble, logical plan once recorded will never die, but long after we are gone will be a living thing, asserting itself with ever growing insistency. Remember that our sons and daughters are going to do things that will stagger us. Let your watchword be order and your beacon beauty. Think big. Daniel Burnham, Chicago Architect (1846 — 1912) Introduction The statement on this page by the great architect Daniel Burnham applies very aptly to Baytown. Great cities are built one step at a time. Those pieces mesh well together because they are inspired by the environment around the city and by its climate. They are inspired by responding to the needs of their citizens, both basic everyday needs, but also by needs that are created by dreams and visions for how things could be. Great cities are built by citizens and residents who believe in their community and share a common desire to make it a better place to be. Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan 1. al! 3. At the end of the day, a great city simply needs to be an interesting and appealing place to live in. This "livability" is defined in many different ways, but a simple measure by The Economist magazine uses five criteria to develop its rankings. These qualities are stability (25%), healthcare (20%), culture & environment (25%), education (10%) and infrastructure (20%). A great park and open space system contributes to neighborhood stability, culture and the environment, education, and certainly to the infrastructure of a city, and so can impact well over half of that scoring criteria. A great park system is important. Baytown's park, trail and open space system is a vital part of what can help Baytown gain recognition as a great and sustainable place to live. In fact, it well may be the most visible and tangible element of that elusive quality of life that all cities seek. Many pieces are already in place. As a result, the recommendations of this master plan seek to build upon what is in place, and to build a framework that can unify all parts of the City. The recommendations in this chapter address a variety of park and open space needs, including the need for acquisition of parkland, the renovation of existing parks, indoor recreation facilities, athletic facility improvements, and the need for preservation of special natural areas throughout the City. Philosophical Background for Recommendations All of the recommendations in this master plan follow certain key points that should guide park related choices. In any sport, rules, both written and unwritten, create the environment under which the game is played. These key philosophical points reinforce and expand upon the goals established for this master plan in Chapter 1. .l Every park should be considered as a "signature" element in that part of the City (see photo 1). No park is less important than any other. Parks should always be carefully chosen sites so that they are prominent features in their respective neighborhoods. Where possible, they should include extensive mature trees and landscaping. Parks should follow a consistent citywide design theme. Fundamental items such as park signs, high quality pavilions with a similar color and design, an emphasis on preserving wetlands and bayou areas, and the preservation of existing vegetation and trees should be used in every new and existing park to create a consistent and recognizable park "language" for Baytown. 46. Every park should in some way, truly celebrate the history and culture of Baytown. Parks can incorporate historical plaques and features that allude to the area or neighborhood around the park, the circumstances that caused the park to be created, or some other unique event that happened in Baytown. Consider beginning to implement art into every park in Baytown (see photo 2). Public art, often created by local artists that can be supported by the City, is an easy way to make many parks in Baytown much more memorable. Parks that include bodies of water or bay frontage should be highly valued (se photo 3). These should become one of the signature elements of Baytown Parks. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ■- . - BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • • • Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball Existing areas of water, whether in the form of ponds, small lakes, bayous, creeks, or bay frontage should be included in key parks where feasible. • 1 Shade should be a standard component of every park. In larger parks, playgrounds and basketball courts should be covered where feasible, either • by trees or canopies. Several covered picnic tables should be included in • every park, no matter how small the park. • 41. Create a defined and easily recognizable "entrance" for every park in Baytown (see photo 4). Every park should have a front door. Even parks • such as Bergeron that are surrounded by streets on every side can include features • that announce that this is a valuable public space in Baytown. Photo 4 illustrates what an entrance could look like. • • • • • Recommendations by Category • The following items comprise the majority priority recommendations of the Baytown Parks and • Recreation Master Plan. Illustrations included with each of these items are intended to convey • the essence of each recommendation, but unless noted otherwise are not specific concepts or actual plans. Costs that are shown are at an order of magnitude level of detail, and will vary • as more detailed programming and design occurs. Costs that are shown are also pre -design, • and are based on staff and consultant experience with similar types of facilities. All costs include a cost escalation factor, assumed to be in the range of 3% per year. Detailed • concepts and fully developed cost projections should be developed as each recommendation • begins to be implemented. Recommendations and associated actions for each are divided into the following categories: • 1 Current and Future Parkland Acquisition • 1 Existing Park Renovations • 1 Indoor Recreation Facilities • 1 Aquatic Facilities • 1 Athletic Facilities 1 Parks should be designed so as to reduce maintenance. Automatic irrigation systems should be a key component of every park, as should simple features that make every park easier to maintain. • 1 Trails — discussed in detail in Chapter 6 • 1 Summary of high priority needs • The timeframe of each recommended priority is based on High Priority (within the next • five years), Medium Priority (within the next five to ten years), or Long Term • (beyond ten years). Note that the prioritization shown in this Master Plan is intended to guide • staff and city Council actions, and any item may be initiated sooner than recommended if unique circumstances or opportunities arise. The following pages illustrate a summary of the • major recommendation categories in the Master Plan. • • • HALFF • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan 5 Potential elementary or junior high schools that can serve as school parks to address recreational facility deficiencies in some neighborhoods. Land for Needed Parks - Acquisition Recommendations Without land to preserve or on which to build recreation facilities, Baytown cannot have any future parks. This master plan recommends that the City try to maintain the same ratio and access to parks that current residents have as growth occurs. This will require pro -active land acquisition on the part of staff and the City Council. Acquiring land for future parks should always be a high priority, even if those parks will not be built for years to come. Keeping in mind that parks are a critical component of how the City is perceived, land acquisition should not always target the least expensive piece of land. Rather, the specific needs of area, the citizens that it will serve, and the natural characteristics of that area should all be considered when land is acquired. Land is also a finite asset, and efforts to acquire that land today at a lower cost will pay off in the future. If the location of a park site is known, then an entire neighborhood can be planned around it. Land For Neighborhood Parks — smaller parks should be planned for every new neighborhood or grouping of neighborhoods in Baytown. Sites should be selected that allow easy walking access within a few blocks and without crossing any major streets. Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan Legend ■• 111110.1111. YAW MY. WYTIre 01.14,00 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • HALFF • • Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball In Existing Developed Areas of Baytown - While Baytown has a very good supply of smaller park acreage, there are several areas of the city where current access to neighborhood parks is not available. Acquisition recommendations and strategies for each are shown below. 1. Identify a location for an additional neighborhood park in the area bounded by S.H. 146, Main Street, Garth Road and Texas Avenue. An option may be to enhance school play facilities at Lamar Elementary, or to acquire a 2 to 3 acre tract of land for a future park to serve this area. Required Actions — Pursue agreement with Goose Creek ISD for developing school/park facilities Develop concept for site and development cost projections Determine funding source and develop new park Priority Level — High Projected Cost Range — Range from no cost (land donated) to $200,000. Note that preferred recommendation is to enhance existing school play areas, requiring no acquisition costs. Recommended Time Frame for Action — Within three to five years Ashbel SmAh Elementary As be Smith School:Park Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan 2. Identify a location for an additional neighborhood park in the area bounded by S.H. 146 to the east and Cedar Bayou to the west, and between Pinehurst Boulevard to the north and Crystal Boulevard to the south. Work with area neighborhoods to develop a park to serve the area, Required Actions - Review options for park sites in the area, and work with area neighborhoods to select a workable option Develop concept for site and development cost projections Determine funding source and develop new park Priority Level - High Projected Cost Range - Range from no cost (land donated) to a recommended maximum of $250,000. Available public lands already identified as potential joint use park sites should continue to be considered. Recommended Time Frame for Action - Within three to five years • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • HALFF • • Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball 3. Identify a location for a formal designated neighborhood park in the area bounded by Massey Tomkins Road to the north, S.H. 146 to the south, and Crosby Cedar Bayou Road to the west. Enhance already existing school/park play facilities at Stephen F. Austin Elementary, and add park facilities to area detention facilities where feasible. Provide pedestrian and bicycle connections to the elementary school from neighborhoods to the south and west. Required Actions — Pursue agreement with Goose Creek ISD for further developing school/park facilities at Stephen F. Austin Elementary Develop concept for site and development cost projections Determine funding source and develop new park Priority Level — High Projected Cost Range — Range from no cost (land donated) to $200,000. Primary acquisition needs in this area will be secure right of way or easement to connect Hunter's Ridge and other neighborhoods to the elementary school and the school/park. Recommended Time Frame for Action — Within three to five years J..0 , H of l away;.P. ark Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan 4. Identify a location for a formal designated neighborhood park in the area bounded by McKinney Road to the west, S.H. 146 to the north, and Cedar Bayou to the east. In conjunction with the GSISD, develop school/park play facilities on 1.5 to 2 acres +/- at Cedar Bayou Junior High to serve the area. Required Actions — Pursue agreement with Goose Creek ISD for developing school/park facilities at Cedar Bayou Junior High. Select location on campus (perhaps along Ferry Road) and develop concept for site and development cost projections Determine funding source and develop new park Priority Level — High Projected Cost Range — Acquisition in this area should be at no to very little cost. Secure agreement with GCISD or utilize drainage or other right of way for a small park. Recommended Time Frame for Action — Within three to five years • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYT • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 111; HALFF • • Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball 5. Identify a location for a neighborhood park in the area on either side of Sjolander Road, and bounded by F.M. 2354 to the north and Archer Road to the south. Pursue a joint school/park with GCISD if a new elementary school is developed in the area. If not, acquire 3 to 5 acres for an area neighborhood park east or west of Sjolander Road. This area is illustrated on the following page. Required Actions — Identify potential locations for park that best serve the existing neighborhoods. Select location on campus (perhaps along Ferry Road) and develop concept for site and development cost projections Determine funding source and develop new park Priority Level — Medium Term Projected Cost Range — Potential for low cost if GCISD land is available. If not, a maximum of $300,000 is recommended for acquisition in this area. Recommended Time Frame for Action — Within five years 6. Identify a location for a neighborhood park in the area bounded by Sjolander Road to the east, Archer Road to the south, north Main Street to the west and I.H. 10 to the north. Pursue a joint school/park with GCISD if a new elementary school is developed in the area. Alternatively, the proposed Chandler Arboretum site is ideally sited to meet area park needs, and a portion could be developed as a unique neighborhood park. The final option is to acquire 5+/- acres for an area neighborhood park in the area. This area is illustrated on the following page. Required Actions — Identify potential locations for park that best serve existing area neighborhoods. Develop concept for site and development cost projections Determine funding source and develop new park Priority Level — Medium Term Projected Cost Range — Potential for low cost if GCISD land is available. Donation of land as part of a future development in the area may also be considered. If not, a maximum of $300,000 is recommended for acquisition in this area. Recommended Time Frame for Action — Within five years • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Neighborhood Park Acquisition in Future Growth Areas Much of the future residential growth in Baytown will occur north of IH 10 and east of Cedar Bayou. While this growth may not accelerate for a number of years until the national economic picture improves, City staff and the Council should plan in advance for the acquisition of parkland to meet the needs of new residents in those areas. In general, land for neighborhood parks in these areas should be initiated by the developers of these new areas, either through private homeowner association parks, or by helping to fund the development of new parks. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 191114 faiLli BAYTOWN • S • • Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball Private homeowner managed parks - Many newer developments in Baytown are choosing to incorporate their own parks into their developments. These parks are privately owned and managed by the neighborhood homeowner association, and are available only to residents of that neighborhood. Parks in the Springfield and Highlands Ranch developments are recent examples of this trend. Since these parks provide for facilities that meet many of the park needs of local area residents, this trend should be encouraged and allowed. Use of a Parkland dedication and development fund - A second funding mechanism to help develop parks in new areas of the City is a parkland dedication ordinance, which Baytown currently does not have. These ordinances are utilized by more than 50 of the largest cities in Texas, and are discussed in more detail in Chapter 8 under Ordinances and Policies section. DERSERWOO Q1:3G 1;704CJ a QQQaee 4'O L JL O®OOBORHOOD G)QOM Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan Legend oau.e a, :.+. .er a.ee.cwwun O vum • aid •v • «. Pec•Snito �ada+..ree Smeas. ■ scas \ o.mun. ■ ■ ■ • • y ...de.••e.... .:..• :..... ..., ..d.l... bleinx**RICRO• Yolk RR. ...,. Ise▪ RRNRIPO erwee. tee. RC 0..▪ ti. r.....N. _ ....e. 6.e.e C.M. .i. CINIRREXIIIFINO MM.. ▪ Wrr WWI.O ti W... M 0.0 . Y1iMY..w.. e.._..�C enlra•ar Ono O. M .O. Noe INI WORM. M0 bonaI. w dOtal Ola AVM • • HALFF • • 121 Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Community and Regional Park Land Acquisition Recommendations Baytown's existing community parks provide approximately 80% of the targeted level of service. The map on this page illustrates the general service areas for each of the community parks in the City. As can be seen on the map below, most of the existing developed areas of the City can readily reach one of the existing community parks. The more important issue is the size of many of these community parks and their ability to incorporate new or additional recreation facilities as the need arises. Many community parks such as Roseland, Unidad, Britton and Bayland are relatively small and have little space to fit additional recreational features. Baytown also lacks larger "regional" parks that can accommodate an even greater variety of recreational opportunities. Jenkins and the Wayne Gray Sports Complex are the only two parks that are larger enough to be considered as regional parks, and only Jenkins has the potential to be enlarged. Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan Legend ♦ 7. • �� ©OG`�CJUCtl04 ? (�QG3� • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ISTOWN • • • • • • • • • • • 0 0 0 0 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • HALFF • • 1. As feasible, acquire land to further expand Jenkins and Hc regional park that serves a large area of Baytown. Curren for expansion of the park. Additional acreage around the park range expansion room to take advantage of the parks central log around this park may result in a great efficiency of parkland independent site that is not connected to the existing park. Required Actions - Investigate the availability and cost of land adjacent to the exi Identify funding sources for possible acquisition. Acquire if feasible. Priority Level - Medium Term Projected Cost Range - $300,000 to $750,000. Recommended Time Frame for Action - Within five years Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball Recommendations regarding the acquisition for land for future larger community and regional parks are as follows: Expansion of Existing Community and Regional Parks ollaway Parks to create a tly, 50 acres are available could provide further long ration. Acquisition of land rather than acquiring an sting park. Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan 2. As feasible, incorporate additional floodplain or drainage channels into the lands considered to be part of the Wayne Gray Sports Complex. The park's location in the geographic center of Baytown makes it an ideal candidate for use as key "central" park for Baytown. The majority of the lands around the park are currently developed, but the City should pursue opportunities to add to the park if the acquisition costs are reasonable. Expansion of this central location is preferable to creating a new stand alone park in the area. Required Actions - Investigate the availability and cost of land adjacent to the existing park. Identify funding sources for possible acquisition. Acquire if feasible. Priority Level - High Projected Cost Range - No cost (if floodplain/channel lands are donated) to $500,000 (recommended maximum for expansion of this park site). BAYT( ) W N I N+il sl\8(,till $1 11:\AKL\cin >11 PRI i•I I14�� Acquisition for Future Community and Regional Parks Sites for future community parks in undeveloped areas of the City should be identified and acquired while land values remain affordable. Unless growth accelerates beyond what is currently forecast, actual development of those parks may not be needed for 10 to 20 years. However, the process of identifying the preferred location for those major parks and developing a funding source for each site should begin in the near future. Five different areas where large parks are needed have been identified. Major barriers such as Interstate Highway 10 or Cedar Bayou generally define the boundaries between each area, but land acquisition opportunities may cause those boundaries to shift if necessary. Where possible, sites that are considered in this area should incorporate existing bodies of water or sections of Cedar Bayou. Sites should include both natural areas to be preserved, as well as lands that can readily be converted into active sports facilities. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 • 0 • 0 0 /1 0 • • 11 • 11 0 0 • HALFF • • Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan Legend hor▪ ssraf Pay how. Y••YrM trw'Iw•I Yl▪ ee.q.Y rw.ee Gag Q@ l ©E D0GJ® GQ (�C�J4C�JQ© �ru,it t C.oc COMOV l E?c 3 Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan However, these sites are intended to be used as active parks and as the centerpiece of their zone, and as such should include adequate land that can be converted into sports fields or other active uses. The ability to expand or reprogram these park sites in the future should be considered, requiring approximately 75 to 100 contiguous acres in each zone. The projected sequence for need for parks in these areas is shown in the map on the preceding page, and is described as follows. While none are an immediate priority, acquiring park land in this area in the near term rather than waiting as development accelerates can result in much lower acquisition costs. Acquisition for Future Community and Regional Parks Zone 1 — Area south of IH 10 and east of Cedar Bayou. The Houston Raceway Park as well as ready access via SH 146 has generated steady growth in this area in recent years. However, the area is served by only two smaller parks and it currently has no larger parks. Residential growth is already occurring in this area, and while the short term needs of the area can be met by the expansion of Jenkins Park in the near future, a site for a future large regional park in this zone should be identified over the next one to three years. Medium to High Priority Zone 2 — Area West of Garth Road and North of Interstate Highway 10 — Portions of this area have been developing as the Highlands for over 20 years, and most of the area remains unincorporated but in the extra territorial jurisdiction of Baytown. Harris County Precinct 2 has developed several parks in this area that will meet the immediate recreation needs of the area. However, much longer term, opportunities for a major regional park incorporating portions of the Highland Reservoir could create a one -of -a -kind regional park opportunity for Baytown. Acquiring the right to purchase land in the area should be a high priority over the next one to three years. Medium to High Priority Zone 3 — Area Between Garth Road and Cedar Bayou and North of IH 10 — The new Goose Creek Memorial High School is already attracting new residential development to this area. Much of the area is not yet in the city limits of Baytown, and as a result Harris County Precinct 2 has developed a major regional soccer complex in this area. The corridor along Cedar Bayou is also largely undeveloped but is not permanently preserved. A variety of recreational facilities such as play areas, trails, pavilions and multi -purpose courts could be incorporated into the existing county park to address the recreational needs of the area. Medium Priority Zones 4 and 5 — Areas east of Cedar Bayou and South of FM 565 — Grand Parkway bisects this area. While largely undeveloped, primary uses are large industrial tracts which utilize the rail and barge access that is found in the area. Excepting the area along the Tri- Cities Beach Road and FM 2354, very little existing residential development can be found in this area. As a result, park land acquisition needs for this area remain low. Baytown should consider the acquisition of tracts that provide bay front access between Evergreen Road and FM 2354. Medium to Low Priority • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYTOWN • S • • /1 41 it 11 41 41 41 41 41 • • • • • Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball Recommendations to Address Indoor Recreation • Needs • • Indoor recreation programming is a key component of any city's recreation system. These programs increased fitness opportunities and allow a city to • greatly diversify and expand the types of programs it offers. As discussed • previously, Baytown's indoor recreation needs are currently being provided by using rooms at the Community Center and by the local branch of the • YMCA. The Community Center classrooms are not ideal for fitness classes, • and the Community Center has no cardio vascular facilities or weight training facilities. Annual YMCA memberships can be expensive or beyond the • capability of many families in the City. Lee College has a modern facility with • an indoor pool, but the need exists for a modern indoor recreation facility in Baytown, and this • need will continue to grow as the City expands. • Key needs are spaces for indoor gyms, modern classroom and program rooms, cardiovascular fitness and weight training equipment. The following options should be considered to address • the growing need for indoor recreation in Baytown. • • 41 • Community Center • Event rooms at the Center are popular and address the need for rental rooms for larger events 1. Expand the existing Baytown Community Center 2. Develop a new Center in partnership with the YMCA or with Lee College 3. Develop a new Center that is entirely City operated The advantages and disadvantages of each of these options is reviewed below. Option 1 - Expand the current existing Baytown • such as weddings. These rooms should remain. A wing could be added to the Community " Center to provide space for additional fitness programs and equipment. A projected addition consisting of 12,000 to 15,000 square feet would be recommended, and expansion would 4) have to occur on the west side of the building by reconfiguring portions of the existing parking 41 • • HALFF • • 50,000 to 75,000 Recommended square feet of indoor recreation space to address recreation program needs. Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan In considering whether to seek a partner to help develop a new center, the overall goal of the City to emphasize access for all its citizens to such a center should be a foremost consideration. area. At a projected cost range between $200 to $250 per square foot, this option could cost between $2,000,000 to $4,000,000. Expansion would include: • A 5,000 square foot weight training room • A 5,000 square foot room for cardiovascular equipment such as treadmills and elliptical equipment • One to two new state of the art classrooms for dance and fitness training • 2,000 to 3,000 square feet of addional office and storage space, as well as renovation of the interior of the existing Baytown Parks and Recreation Department office spaces Advantages of this Option — this option expands a known City facility and utilizes existing parkland. It remains in an accessible location, and maintains a presence in the older section of the City. It keeps a core amount of City services in this area of the City. Disadvantages of this Option — the existing Community Center is an older building, and while it is in a satisfactory condition, it has a dated appearance. This appearance may keep residents from using the Center, even if renovations occur. More importantly, as the City continues to gradually grow to the north and east, this location will not be as centrally located as it once was. This option also does not provide for indoor gymnasiums, which are a cornerstone of much indoor programs. Finally, expansion of the existing building may prove to be expensive, and will require re -configuration of the existing roads and parking areas that surround the building. Existing outdoor areas of NC Foote Park will be impacted and could result in less park space being available. Option 2 - Develop a New Indoor Recreation Center in conjunction with a Local Partner A new modern indoor recreation center would emphasize fitness equipment and classroom spaces for fitness classes, as well as gymnasium space for basketball and volleyball. The major advantage of a new center is that it would allow Baytown to provide the most up to date facilities and take advantage of new trends in recreation. Such a facility could also be specifically tailored to the types of programs that Baytown residents want to participate in. Typical centers of this magnitude today range from 50,000 to 75,000 square feet, and their development costs can range from $12,000,000 to $16,000,000 in today's dollars. Because of the cost to develop such a facility, partners could be considered to share the development cost of the facility. However, in considering whether to seek a partner to help develop a new center, the overall goal of the City to emphasize access for all its citizens to such a center should be a foremost consideration. Potential partners could include the YMCA or a local college such as Lee College. It is important to note that inclusion in this report does not imply that either organization would support such a partnership; rather this discussion is included to consider all potential options. • BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • • • • • • • The facility is intended primarily for students and as a training facility for associates degrees in kinesiology and • recreation. In its current configuration it is not capable of supporting a very high level of membership, and would • need to be significantly expanded to serve as the primary • indoor recreation facility in Baytown. • Advantages of Considering Lee College as a • potential partner — Lee College is well known, and its facilities are in the core, older area of Baytown. Adding • an indoor recreation facility in this area would support the • revitalization of the downtown area. The college already has an established facility and established staffing, and • expansion of this facility might be accomplished in a • more cost effective manner. Partnering could result in a • larger facility with less overall funding required by either entity. • Disadvantages of considering Lee College as a • potential partner — facilities at Lee College are already • available to Lee College students and staff only, but the • existing facility does not have the size to accommodate significantly higher levels of use. It has limited space for expansion, and the necessary expansion would occupy needed space on the college campus. The primary mission of the facility is student training, and expansion into an all encompassing • recreation center could deviate from that mission. Finally, control of the types of programing • offered at the center and the cost to participate would have to be addressed, but would Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball Consider Partnership with Lee College — Lee College operates the Lee College Wellness Center, which includes fitness equipment and an indoor heated lap pool. The Center is available for use by the more than 9,000 full and part-time students, faculty and staff of Lee College, as well as by residents in the Baytown area. The facility is staffed with 10 full time and part-time Lee College employees. Costs to use the fitnes facilities average $120 per semester for non -seniors and $80 per semester for residents over 65 years in age. Costs to use the pool are $25 per semester. • probably stay with the College as the ultimate decision maker. 4) Consider partnership with YMCA — the area YMCA is the current defacto recreation center 4) provides the area. As the furthest east of the more than 20 YMCAs in the greater Houston area, it provides a variety of indoor and outdoor programs for residents of all ages. The current YMCA • facility in Baytown is dated and is in need of expansion. The Baytown YMCA is already • considering expanding, and may target a facility that is further north to more efffectively draw from residents of neighboring communities, including Mount Belview and Chambers County • residents. 0 0 0 0 0 lb HALFF U 0 Playbook 2020 1 Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan K. i Ma w 11/4 iv Ni ar " 7RA* �wr w A �Sr Y •Kua.^w a't," Yn.� exit. :11 1I.:.uY. .+ All 0,4051 L N. . r,tI1 • .t .6. • .w• .1300. wti I Y , �r� k.w , F , . a.. 7 .,.Y jai rLaciti`i A. • 04 guiuLJ10'id T Al'1 GiawnC_A' "LAIN ' by.' Y Fat,' 1Mii4 � ,,p ^ y Y WW2. Th4" w•ot i�wSp.� 4 a :.. qr ",a. Sara Typical models for partnerships with the YMCA involve the local YMCA operating the facility, with the partner city providing much if not all of the capital funding, and in some cases an annual operating subsidy. Advantages and disadvantages of this model are discussed below. Advantages of considering a partnership with the YMCA — YMCA facilities are typically well operated, with experienced management and expertise in developing and running successful recreation programs. Y facilities offer a variety of programs for all ages. Centers are open to all, and the current Baytown Y does offer scholarships or membership reductions to families with household incomes under $50,000. Y directors are experienced with fund raising and with developing and maintaining adequate membership quantities to support the programming that they offer. Disadvantages of partnering with the YMCA — the most significant concern for any city that is considering a partnership with the YMCA is the loss of programming control and the cost to residents to become and remain members. Effectively, the City becomes a supporter of the Y, and has less say in the types of programs that are offered. Since each local Y must generate sufficient income to remain financially viable, some programs that might be offered at a City facility with a local subsidy cannot be offered at a Y facility, and individual program costs may be higher to generate necessary revenue levels. City operated indoor recreation centers are typically subsidized, with the level of subsidy varying based the needs of local residents. Facilities in Texas are typically expected to operate at a rate that retums 75 to 80% of the overall operational cost. A few centers in Texas operate at rates that return 100% of the operating cost, but membership levels at those tend to be higher and the higher rates are supported only in more affluent cities in the state. As an example, an annual pass for a family of four might cost $200 to $300 at a City operated facility, while a similar membership at private facility might be in the range of $500 to $600 per year. Specific arrangements between the City and the facility can be used to help lower the cost for some residents. Option 3 - Develop a new city operated indoor recreation center with no area partners Many cities in Texas have chosen to develop their own new recreation centers. In recent years, these facilities have averaged 50,000 to 70,000 square feet in size, and more often than not are including an indoor pool as a component of the facility. City facilities often provide for two side by side basketball/volleyball courts, indoor running tracks, and extensive facilities for cardiovascular and weight training. In recent years, facilities have ranged in cost from • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • a• BAYTOWN • • • • • • • Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball • $10,000,000 to $16,000,000 (with an indoor aquatic component). As a way to get future • Baytown residents in the City's ETJ to participate, Harris County Precinct 2 residents as well as residents of nearby cities could be asked to help fund the Center. • • Popular programs offered at the Community Center would most likely continue be offered to serve residents in south Baytown. • • Advantages of a City of Baytown lead Center — a center developed by Baytown could offer membership rates that are much more affordable to many residents of Baytown. • Memberships at a higher rate could also be offered to residents in the City's ETJ and from • other area Cities to increase usage of the facility. Programming and operation of the facility would be lead by City of Baytown staff. Management, programming and operations decisions • would be made by the City of Baytown staff and elected officials. • Disadvantages of a City of Baytown lead Center — capital development costs for the new • Center would be largely provided by Baytown residents. Operating costs for the new Center •would have to be born by the City. Depending on the type of facility that is developed, annual operating costs for the facility could be between $600,000 and $1,200,000 per year, especially • if an indoor pool is included with the Center. Depending on the rates that are set, • memberships, rentals, and program fees could be expected to return anywhere from 50% to 75% of the annual operating cost, requiring an annual subsidy (Note that such subsidies are • typical and are used to keep usage rates affordable and accessible, which is the mission of the • City). • The YMCA will more than likely continue to plan to expand or develop a new Center in or near • Baytown, so it would offer parallel programming to that offered by the City of Baytown. The • development of a City operated center may result in the Baytown Y moving to an adjoining City. • • Inclusion of an Indoor Aquatic Facility • Many new indoor recreation facilities include an indoor lap pool to enhance the range of fitness offerings in the center. Operating one facility with combined recreation and aquatics is often • more efficient than operating two completely separate facilities. Lee College has a 6 lane • pool, 24 hour fitness has a 3 lane pool, and the Baytown Rehab Center has a large pool that is also available for lap swimming and therapeutic classes. Sterling High School has a 10 lane • competitive pool used by high school and area swim teams, with limited swim sessions • available for the general public. Outdoor lap swimming will also be available at the renovated • NC Foote Pool and at Pirates Bay Water Park. A new recreation center should include a footprint for a pool, whether it is developed initially or • after the new center opens. The inclusion of a pool increase the operational cost of a center, • but it also increases membership and provides an excellent alternative fitness activity. • • • • • • 90 HALFF • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • Location for a Future Recreation Center • To gain maximum staff efficiency and memberships, a typical center draws from a large • geographic area. From north to south and west to east, Baytown will ultimately be more than • 10 miles in either direction. A new center, whether developed by the City of Baytown or through a partnership with another entity, should be located so that it can draw a maximum • number of memberships. Three general geographic areas should be considered. They are: • A. Downtown/Old Baytown area — a new center could be a cornerstone attraction of old • downtown Baytown, and could help revitalization efforts for the area. It could draw from residents of the area, but because of distance would have a harder time attracting residents from fast growing areas north of IH 10. A site for the building would also have to be acquired, but lower land costs may resolve this issue. Finally, a center in this area would compete with the Lee College Wellness Center, which is already available to Lee College students and staff. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • .......1a• BAYTOWN • S • • • • • Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball B. Garth Road/Main Street area — a location in the geographic center of the City could attract users from all parts of the City, as well as from ETJ and nearby residents. A location near the newly opened Pirates Bay Water Park would establish Wayne Gray Sports Complex as the • new "central park" of Baytown, and could be readily accessed by residents from all parts of the City. • • • • • 111) r • • C. North Baytown — this area will provide the best access for residents outside of the City limits, residents of fast growing east Baytown or residents of nearby cities. However, for residents of much of the southern area of Baytown, this location will take more time to get to. No large city owned site currently exists in the area, so land would have to be acquired for a new center. A downtown location would also be required. Recommendation Baytown should actively pursue the development of a modern center. Consider both partnering with the YMCA and developing the Center without a partner. Conduct a detailed feasibility study to assess each alternative option, and select an operational alternative. Timeframe and Actions to Develop a Future Indoor Recreation Center — the three existing facilities (City of Baytown Community Center, Lee College Wellness Center and the Baytown • YMCA) provide some measure of service for the immediate future. However, the area Y is • dated and is not large enough, and city staff are only able to offer a fraction of what they could offer at the Baytown Community Center. Therefore, a new citywide Recreation Center • should be developed in the next five to ten years. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • dir HALFF • • Actions to Develop a New Indoor Recreation Center are as follows: Required Actions — 1. Develop a detailed program of needs for the Center, including Senior and Teen facility needs. 2. Discuss potential partnership strategies with local partners, including the area YMCA. 3. Identify a specific location for the Center, based on the criteria established in this master plan. 4. Acquire land for the site. 5. Develop detailed schematic building plans and cost estimates for the facility. 6. Negotiate and complete partnering agreements if that option is selected. 7. Determine funding mechanisms, target rate of return, and if necessary, seek citizen approval for bonding mechanisms. Identify and pursue grant funding opportunities. 8. Design and build the new center, staff and program the center. Priority Level — High for actions 1 through 6, Medium for actions 7 and 8. Actions 1 through 5, excluding 4, can be accomplished as part of a detailed indoor recreation center feasibility study. t 133 Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • • • Baytown Nature Center, Wet/ands Center and • Open Space Recommendations • • Baytown's bay front setting is one of the City's strongest assets. Additionally, many of the • water corridors and wetlands in or near the City also serve to tease residents and visitors with the possibilities of a City built around and in the middle of nature. This possibility exists even • with the City's highly visible industrial facilities. In fact, many of these industrial facilities are • well buffered from nearby parts of the City and are surrounded by green areas. What is most apparent is that much of the remainder of Baytown seems to not have much of a connection • either to the waterfront or to the area bayous and streams. The Britton Park/Bayland Park and • the Goose Creek Park areas are two parts of the City that illustrate how those natural areas can help create beautiful and desirable places to be. • The emphasis on the retention and preservation of open space and natural areas should be a • key part of the City's actions as it moves forward in creating a strong place for itself in the • greater Houston area. A strong industrial base and excellent road, water and rail access give • Baytown many of the assets it needs to attract new development and growth. • This open space component is a key part of the other side of the equation, which is to make • Baytown a highly desirable place to live. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ai• • BAYTOWN • S • Nature center and open space recommendations address three key components, which are: • The Baytown Nature Center and Wetlands Center • Bay front areas in and near the City • Bayou and water based areas in and near the City • 0 • • • • • • 0 • 0 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 0 0 • • 0 0 0 0 0 0 9. HALFF 0 0 Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball The Baytown Nature Center and Wetlands Center The Nature Center and the Wetlands Center are one of kind facilities that are not often common in cities of Baytown's size. Both have unique origins, one as a result of flooding and subsidence of a residential community, the other as a citizen lead desire to create a unique center from an abandoned building. The initial phases of getting these two facilities well established and stable has been accomplished. The question addressed in this section is how to take these facilities to the next level, so that they become regionally renowned attractions that significantly enhance Baytown's image. Baytown Nature Center - To date, a total of $2,500,000 has helped develop the Nature Center to where it is today. Visitation to the Nature Center has steadily increased, but was impacted by damage from Hurricane Ike in 2008. In 2007, visitation exceeded 30,000 paid entrances, and attendance for the first six months of 2010 is approximately15,OOO. In comparison, Armand Bayou in Pasadena records around 70,000 visitors per year. Many of the current visitors to the Nature Center use the park for access to fishing areas along Burnet and Crystal Bays. A master plan was prepared for the Nature Center in 2006. The master plan, which is illustrated on this page, focused on ecological and trail related improvements, and recommended the establishment of a series of exhibits and trails that allowed visitors to explore the various habitats and environ- ments throughout the area. Per the master plan "the Baytown Nature Center will be developed and managed to provide two primary objectives: 1) Habitat conservation and 2) Development of educational opportunities for students learning about nature and basic ecological principles." As pointed out in the master plan, the Nature Center actually consists of two park -like environments; one focuses on wetlands and nature viewing, all in an environment that is being restored, while the other focuses on passive recreation with the waterfront as a background. In effect, the recreation use supports the restoration activities in other parts of the park. Baytown Nature Center Master Plan November 2 :16 ear. *AmamiCity 147 ? • a.,..q ice. TISa OweGMrg1.alaxYa..1a .,.tea r...,.,ra// 711141140 Pm roorsa Map Inset Index 1 - Myia C. Blown Bred Sanctuary 2 - San Jaunts Peninsula 3 - New Growth Forest a - Meadow 5 - Peat Oak Savannah 8 - Sail Marsh T - 60110inlaru1 Forest 8. Frestlwater Pond 9- Free/hunter Ponds a MINN N 0 500 1,000 Apoet t W4411 L.tlxlr\\1LS I.U. IrsM Ina.e Bofomiana Four oir.,a,watuf Put' , ea Wank. New Growth Forest Pat Oak Savannah ® Sea Marsh Cily of Baytown Baytown Nature Cecile! Master Plan 2006 AERIAL PNOTOORAPHY MOH PROJECT PLAN. HABITATS AND ILEX OF ATTACHED INSET MAPS Harris County. Texas 4. Develop a unique sign and graphic "language" for the Nature Center, and over time replace all signs, guide -markers, and even directional traffic markers in the park with this new graphic style. The style should be rustic and evoke natural qualities, but should also evoke a sense of quality and permanence while being a step above current signage in the park. Signs, gates and markers are among the few man-made objects in much of the park, and while they should remain as background elements, they should also express the quality of the overall park. Examples of signs from other similar facilities are shown on this page. 5. Develop and implement appropriate and unique park architecture and furnishings that set the park apart. Given that the area was at one time a flourishing neighborhood, architectural references to the style of homes and the sense of "neighborhood" that were in place at one time could be selected as an overall theme. Other themes could involve area wildlife, the three different bays that surround the park, or the vegetative zones that exist in the park. The park's entrance gate hints at a unique Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • • • As a result of past flooding and ground subsidence, and by the fact that homes in the area • were bought out and removed, no permanent buildings can be developed within much of the park. Therefore the majority of the park is slated to return to a more natural state. Many • components of the park were damaged by Hurricane Ike in 2008, and are slowly being • reconstructed as funding becomes available. • This master plan recommends that the Baytown Nature Center be considered as one of the • most significant attractions of the City, and that its transformation into one of the premier . natural attractions in Southeast Texas be accelerated. In terms of funding, consider expenditures towards the Nature Center to be more than spending on a park — rather this • spending goes towards a significant Baytown attraction. . The following recommendations are made to convey the uniqueness of the Nature Center. • Emphasis should be on the quality of elements placed in the park and not so much on the • quantity of items throughout the park. • 1. Conduct a more detailed and renewed evaluation of facilities in the nature • center - over time upgrade many existing facilities with facilities that are uniquely developed for the Baytown Nature Center. • 2. Introduce new appropriate uses that increase revenue generation in the park, • and reinvest any surpluses in the nature center. Examples might be new boat • access facilities to allow small electric or non -motorized boats, new tours of the • nature center or bay areas, or sales of bait and fishing supplies. • 3. As appropriate, accelerate the removal of former streets that are no longer • appropriate or needed for the Nature Center. Allow natural overgrowing of the streets to continue except where those streets are being used for visitor or • maintenance access. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 41 BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • Chapter 7 1 Keep Your Eye on the Ball • experience within the park — facilities in the park should continue this theme. 6. Evaluate the maintenance requirements of the Nature Center, including • mowing, and promote the reduction of mowing and more intensive • maintenance as much as possible — Even in the park environment of the San Jacinto peninsula, re -introduce more grasses to remind visitors to this area that they • are in a nature park. • 7. As possible, accelerate the removal of non-native species and the planting of • the appropriate plant species per the master plan - Per the 2006 master plan, • accelerate the conversion to more appropriate vegetative species. • 8. Make boating a larger part of the Nature Center experience - Consider providing a • location for boating access, especially for kayaks and small electric motor boats to increase interest in the park. Consider introducing a boat rental concession as an • added feature of the park. • 9. Enhance trails throughout the park — continue to develop trails throughout the • park. Use vegetation or markers to create trail "entrances," and continue to add • selective guidance and interpretive signage. • 10. Create special "nodes" in areas of the park as destinations — concentrate • seating, interpretive information and unique displays in these key nodes. Nodes should face key bay vistas or unique natural areas. • • 11. Create paddling trails — introduce carefully placed markers to highlight destinations in each of the bays surrounding the park for appropriate kayak, canoe, and stand up • paddling (SUP) opportunities. • 12. Create a larger interpretive center on or adjacent to the Nature Center site — • where feasible and keeping floodplain considerations in mind, develop a larger • interpretive facility that serves as a starting point for visits to the Center. • Potential Cost of Nature Center Recommendations — Annual funding allocated to site • improvements should be accelerated as feasible, with a recommended $250,000 per year allocated specifically to new site improvements, and an additional $100,000 for replacement or • improvements to existing infrastructure in the park annually over the next five years. Larger • items should as an expanded interpretive center should be considered over and above these • amounts. • Timeframe for Nature Center Recommendations — Immediate and continuing over a five • year period • Priority for these Recommendations — High • • • • • 1140 HALFF • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Eddie V. Gray Wetlands Center — started in an abandoned bowling alley over 12 years ago, the Eddie V. Gray Wetlands Center is a unique educational attraction that is visited by over 30,000 school children every year. The Center is named after the local Baytown resident who championed the creation of a wetlands center in Baytown. The displays and staff provide interesting and well developed tours and learning experiences that highlight the bays and wetlands that are one of Baytown's main attractions. The Center has received multiple grants that have allowed it to continue to expand over the past decade, but at the same time funding to upgrade exhibits is difficult to come by. The Center has grown to the point that it is considering expanding to offer an additional classroom, meeting and display space, along with a specific new building that will focus on energy. 1. The Wetlands Center site has a beautiful setting on Goose Creek but has limited room for expansion and the addition of outdoor displays unless additional lands are added. The exterior of the metal building is aging and Center has few exterior site or architectural clues that announce it as an important tourism destination. The Nature Center and the Wetlands Center are managed as one unit by the City of Baytown Parks and Recreation Department. The Wetlands Center features extensive indoor displays, while the Nature Center features a large living and evolving laboratory and park -like environment. As in the case of the Nature Center, the Wetlands Center has reached a maturation point where it must elect to remain as is or to transform itself into a regionally known center. Recommendations for the Wetlands Center are as follows: Expand the existing facility - Expand indoor enclosed areas to allow for additional exhibits and better permanent storage of exhibits. Over the next five years, actively plan for an expansion of the Center. As part of any expansion, rework the architectural character of the existing building to create a more distinct look for the Center. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYTOWN • • • • • • • Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball • 2. Enhance outdoor viewing areas at the Center — Create outdoor classroom areas • overlooking Goose Creek and the newly created wetlands to generate new viewing • experiences. 3. Connect the Wetlands Center to existing area trails - Add trail connections to the • Wetlands Center from the existing Goose Creek trails. • 4. Establish a stronger landscape and entry presence along Market Street so as to • announce the mission of the Wetlands Center. Add signage that visually links the Nature Center and the Wetlands Center. • 5. Investigate the acquisition of other area properties as available at a reasonable • cost to create a more natural environment around the Center and to allow for the • Center to grow. • Uniting the Nature Center and the Wetlands Center • The Nature Center and the Eddie V. Gray Wetlands Center have similar missions and • attractions. One features outdoor areas, while the other focuses on indoor displays. Because • of its history as a neighborhood that was devastated by flooding and subsidence, the Nature • Center site has limited options for a larger, permanent interpretive Center. While initially operating somewhat independently, the Wetlands Center seeks to fill that void and create an • interesting experience where significant learning experiences can occur in a short period of • time. However, having two facilities at two individual locations may be diluting the drawing potential for each. • Advantages of this Option -the advantages of this are that visitors will have only one location • to go to, making it easier for them to visit that one location. Improvements can be • concentrated at one location, rather than at two locations. Promotion can be focused on one location, rather than two facilities. The increased visitation at one site may result in a higher • revenue stream that can be reinvested in the enlarged NaturelWetlands Center. • Disadvantage of this Option — the Nature Center property has few locations that are not in a • flood zone and therefore not appropriate for an interpretive center. Those locations that are • available are closer to the entrance and are not adjacent to wetlands areas. Grant funding received in the past to help develop the Wetlands Center may not allow the Center to be • relocated until after a set period of time, or the grant funds may have to be returned to the • granting entity. • Recommendation - This master plan recommends that the City of Baytown investigate • options to combine the Nature Center and the Wetlands Center at one location on the Nature Center site. This investigation should focus on identifying potential locations for a combined • center, costs associated with developing a new center, impact on previous grant funded • improvements, and the impact on visitation and revenue generation for the Centers. After this investigation is concluded, the Boards of both centers, in conjunction with City staff, should • prepare recommendations that can be forwarded to the Baytown City Council for action. • • • • • HALFF • • Timeframe for this action — given that the Eddie V. Gray Wetlands Center is considering how to expand and is already pursuing funding for a second building, this investigation should be undertaken immediately, with a 6 to 12 month duration for a recommendation. Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Open Space Preservation Recommendations Examples of types of open spaces to be preserved where feasible • • • • • • Preservation of undeveloped natural areas in Baytown is a key element in the transformation of the City. These natural areas stand out from the developed • parts of the City, and become highly noticeable. They also work towards • softening the industrial sectors of Baytown. Most of these areas are associated with water in some form, but any preservation should also focus on preservation • adjacent trees or forested areas. Key types of open space to preserve in Baytown are as follows: • 1. Remaining natural areas along Cedar Bayou, including node parks for • access to Cedar Bayou - Preserve all flood prone lands, and develop ordinances that guide development along the corridor so that it is installed in • a manner that is compatible with the preservation of existing vegetation. • 2. Bayfront corridors and access nodes — where feasible, selected bayfront • zones should be preserved in a natural state. Where development occurs, it • should be installed in a manner that is compatible with the preservation of • as much existing vegetation as possible. • 3. Natural areas along upper Goose Creek — The wetland look of Goose • Creek, as well as the forested areas alongside parts of the creek corridor should be preserved in as natural a state as possible. Consider developing • ordinances that preserve vegetation along floodplain sections of the Creek. • 4. Bodies of water away from the bayfront, as well as natural areas • surrounding these bodies of water — larger bodies of water, such as the • Highlands and Frost Reservoirs, as well as ponds throughout the area should be preserved wherever feasible. • 5. Natural drainage ways and small creeks throughout the City limits and • its ETJ — where feasible, these areas should be preserved in a natural • state, along with all significant existing vegetation. • Outright purchase or acquisition of these areas by the City of Baytown is not • always necessary for preservation. Non -development agreements, transfer of • development rights or the purchase of development rights can be used to permanently preserve many of the areas noted above. • • • • • • • • • BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • • Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball • Development of Additional Outdoor Recreation • Facilities • The Needs Assessment section of this master plan noted that Baytown generally has an • adequate supply of neighborhood parks, but that larger community parks are needed, and the • City has no significant larger parks that can serve the entire city. The City is also has • deficiencies in picnic and family gathering facilities, multi -purpose courts and The following recommendations for outdoor recreation facilities are included in this master plan • 1. Expand Jenkins Park to address need for practice fields, trails and passive recreation facilities — Jenkins and Hollaway Parks are the only large parks in • the entire north and eastern sectors of Baytown. As a result both parks are heavily used. The parks need to be expanded so that a variety of needed park • facilities can be developed. These include additional picnic facilities, trails, a • court for enclosed soccer, practice fields for baseball and softball, and soccer fields. The aquatics master plan also identifies the need for a spraygrounds in • this sector of the City, and the regional nature of Jenkins Park makes it an ideal • candidate for a spraygrounds. • Timeframe for this Action — Within one to three years, depending on availability • of funding • Estimated Cost of this Action - $800,000 to $2,000,000 (no land acquisition is necessary) • Need for this Action - Very high need • 2. Renovate fields and park infrastructure at the Baytown Soccer Park — The • soccer complex is used for adult play, both organized and impromptu. Re -grade • fields, renovate lighting, renovate restroom and concession building, add • bleachers and shade pavilions, resurface parking areas and replace park signage. Timeframe for this Action — Within one to three years, depending on availability • of funding • Estimated Cost of this Action - $350,000 to $750,000 (no land acquisition is • necessary) • Need for this Action — High for improving major Baytown Soccer facility • 3. Develop practice baseball, softball and football facilities at Ward Park — • Ward Park has served as a practice location for eastside baseball leagues. Facilities in the park are basic and are not suitable for game conditions. Eastside games are played at the two fields at East Little League Park; these fields are set in a detention area, and at • times are not available for play because of standing water. These fields can either be rebuilt at Ward Park, or Ward can be used as an improved location for practice for a • variety of sports. • • • HALFF Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan EMI iL -45 - r r 1 Timeframe for this Action — Within one to three years, depending on availability of funding Estimated Cost of this Action - $750,000 to $1,500,000 (no land acquisition is necessary) Need for this Action — High for improving practice facilities for the eastside 4. Develop overlook park and lighted fishing pier along the bay front — Lighted fishing facilities and additional overlook parks along the bay front were among the most frequently requested facilities during this master planning process. Locations along Tabbs Bay and Scott Bay should be evaluated to determine which has available access points, adequate water depth and adequate vistas. Additional considerations may include the potential for new or additional land -based development around the pier. Other considerations include developing additional small overlook parks that can be linked to the pier via trails. Estimated Cost of this Action Initial investigation and Strategy — No cost to $100,000 Land Acquisition — To be determined Potential Development - $500,000 to $3,000,000, depending on facilities programmed for the area Timeframe for this Action — Within five years, depending on availability of funding Need for this Action — High for securing location and necessary lands, medium for development of facilities 5. Develop an "Action" park at Unidad Park — A recent trend in many cities is the development of parks that combine facilities for skating, BMX facilities, court soccer and basketball. This type of a park is typically lighted for nighttime use and attracts teens and young adults. Unidad Park already has a skate park and an actively used basketball court, and the park is not immediately adjacent to existing homes. Additional facilities could include sand volleyball courts, a court for "quick" soccer, a covered basketball court, and dirt ramps for BMX bicycles. Timeframe for this Action — Within five years, depending on availability of funding Estimated Cost for this Action - $500,000 to $1,200,000 Need for this Action — High for covered basketball and speed soccer facilities, medium for other components 6. Create a "central park" for Baytown by linking central city parks along Goose Creek — Starting with the 40 Acre Wood and extending along Goose Creek towards Goose Creek Park and incorporating the Wetlands Center and Bicentennial Park, as well as area green spaces such as the Hill of Rest Cemetery, use landscaping, trails, streetscape features such as lighting and signage, as well as strategic easements to create a larger "central park" for Baytown. This park should instinctively appear to be one larger park with interspersed commercial or institutional land uses, rather than a series of • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • a • • • • • • • • Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball • disconnected parks. Partial medians along Market Street can also serve to unify • Bicentennial Park to the Goose Creek corridor. • Work with privately owned lands along this corridor, and southward towards Britton and • Bayland Parks to preserve shoreline character; establish guidelines to unify new private elements such as structures, piers, docks, so that bay character is maintained. • • Consider creating a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) for the entire Goose Creek corridor to encourage private sector redevelopment of properties fronting on Goose • Creek. Create city ordinances and regulations that facilitate and promote redevelopment. • The central park strategy can serve as the backbone for re -development. • Timeframe for this Action — Within five years, depending on availability of funding Estimated Cost for this Action — Varies based on level of implementation and need for selective land acquisition; $500,000 to $2,000,000 • • • • • • • • • • • • 41 • • • Need for this Action — High for securing location and necessary lands, medium for • development of facilities • • • • • • • 1 HALFF Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • : i:!Nic.t ,..1,1, j._ t _ i i" "i.: .• ;1.:111:".;iftLS:J...i.i. st.lik li,r...,.., •..II .,..:Autt:f... • . • . . • ...I.,: ui',-1..4.1, • Legend Exrsena parka AM linear Park COnflOttlOnS is ONFopty Parks Connected va linear Trails Goose Creek 1,0 Disclaimer Concept for iNustrative purposes only. Actual alignments of Pads *maid be determined during more detailed design phases. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • _ios • BAYTOWN • -Es • • • • • • • • • Outdoor Recreation Needs for Senior Citizens • Indoor recreation needs for seniors are accommodated mainly by Harris County facilities and local church groups. However, in terms of outdoor • recreation, the City of Baytown should provide recreation facilities specifically geared towards senior citizens. The top seven outdoor recreational needs for • seniors include: • 1. Exterior fitness stations • • 2. Passive overlooks and nodes • 3. Accessible fishing facilities and piers • • 4. Walking trails • 5. Accessible community gardens (raised) • 6. Shade pavilions and picnic shelters • • 7. Field for outdoor lawn games, such as bocce ball, horseshoes, lawn • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 3HALFF • chess, etc. Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball 1110 41111W/1 • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Aquatics Recommendations 8. 9. The Baytown Aquatics Master Plan, adopted in 2007, recommended that the City a) develop the Pirates Bay Aquatic Center; and b) renovate the N.C. Foote Park swimming pool. With voter approval of funding in 2008, the major recommendations of the master plan are now being implemented. Pirates Bay opened in the summer of 2010 and is already proving to be a major new attraction to Baytown, while the NC Foote pool will re -open in the summer of 2011. Remaining recommendations of the Aquatics Master Plan focused on developing splash pads in up to seven locations throughout the City. Additional recommendations resulting from this Parks and Recreation Master Plan regarding aquatics are as follows: 1. Develop spraygrounds in or near Jenkins Park to serve neighborhoods on the eastern side of the City. Timeframe — Within 1 to 2 years 2. Develop splash pad at Bergeron Park to serve central city neighborhoods. Timeframe — Within 1 to 2 years 3. Develop enhanced spraygrounds at Roseland Park to serve neighborhoods in the southeastern sector of the City. Timeframe — Within 2 to 3 years (given that this is an enhancement of an existing spraygrounds on the site) 4. Develop spraygrounds at McElroy Park to serve the northwestern neighborhoods of the City. Timeframe — within 2 to 3 years 5. Develop spraygrounds at Pelly Park and Downtown to serve central neighborhoods of the City. Timeframe — within 3 to 4 years. If a central location is selected for a future recreation center, consider relocating one of these facilities to a site adjacent to the new center. 6. North spraygrounds — consider delaying development of this spraygrounds until a site for a larger park north of IH 10 can be identified, and incorporate into that park site. In the interim, the spraygrounds at or near Jenkins Park, as well as facilities at Pirates Bay can provide neighborhood access to sprayground facilities. 7. Plan for additional future splash pad sites east of Cedar Bayou as growth increases in this area grows and as it is annexed into the City. Monitor usage at Pirates Bay Aquatic Center, and assess need for additional phases within the next five to ten years. Long term, assess need for additional neighborhood pool facilities north of IH 10, but only if these are determined not to impact usage at Pirates Bay. • • • • • • • • • 40 II IP IP 4, ID II 41 41 10 IP II • • • • • • • • • • • • Projected Cost of these Actions (Spraygrounds and Splashpads only) - $2,500,000. Of that • total, $ is currently available as a result of 2008 voter approved bonds. • • • • 71.'"u." ripp BAYS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 41': HALFF • • Chapter 7 I Keep Your Eye on the Ball Proposed Aquatic Facilities Proposed Pool System immew O. Future ._ Future North Side ' East- -1 ♦ Ber Red: 5 Mile Radius% Park 2 Mile Radius 'kw am Blue: 1 Mile Radiuir•I some s: 'i OtaO '/s Mile Radius ...' .j. ' 414,41414141414,11.414141414141414141404141414141414141414140404141414,41414141404141 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The parks and recreation needs of Baytown are described in the previous chapters of this • report. This chapter recommends a series of actions to begin addressing those needs. These actions are recommendations to guide the Baytown Parks and Recreation Department staff • and the City Council over the next five to ten years, and should be revisited and updated on a • regular basis. • Prioritization Criteria — The recommended prioritization is based on information received from • public input, as well as from the needs assessment formed from facility and acreage standards shown in Chapter 5. The criteria used to prioritize the park facility needs in Baytown are as • follows: • . Level of need based on citizen input • • 41. Level of need based on level of service -based needs assessment • 46 Conditional assessment of existing park facilities in the City Chapter 8 I The Home Stretch CHAPTER 8 - IMPLEMENTATION PLAN Introduction • • • • O. HALFF • • "You can't put a limit on anything. The more you dream, the farther you get." Michael Phelps Olympic gold medal winner, swimmer Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan A summary of key priorities are shown in Table 8 -1. Table 8 -1 Summary of Priority Needs in Baytown Additional facilities needed based on mail - out survey results 1. Trails 2. Teen center for teen activities 3. More lighting in parks 4. Indoor recreation center 5. Playgrounds Additional facilities needed based on online survey results 1. More lighting in parks 2. Playgrounds 3. Community gardens 4. Fishing piers 5. Fitness classes Additional facilities needed based on level of service 1. Disc golf course 2. Spraygrounds/splash pads 3. Trails 4. Sand volleyball courts 5. Boat ramps Additional facilities needed/renovated based on existing condition 1. Soccer fields 2. Basketball courts 3. Support facilities 4. Playgrounds 5. Picnic facilities Top 10 Cumulative Outdoor Facility Needs Based on Above Summaries 1. Trails 2. Aquatic facilities/spraygrounds 3. Practice facilities for baseball/softball and soccer 4. Picnic areas and shade shelters 5. Preservation of open space and natural areas 6. Community gardens/public art 7. Fishing piers (some lighted) 8. Playgrounds 9. Camp grounds 10. Outdoor classroom/amphitheater Top 6 Cumulative Indoor Facility Needs 1. Gymnasium 2. Fitness/cardio/weight training facilities 3. Multipurpose classrooms 4. Rental facilities for family events 5. Multi -generational facility for adults and seniors 6. Facility for teens Needs meeting all of the criteria were ranked as very high priority elements and are to receive the highest level of attention over the next five to ten years. The top fifteen actions to be undertaken over the next ten years that the City of Baytown should accomplish are as follows (in general order of highest priority): • • • • • Chapter 8 I The Home Stretch • 1. Develop new parkland in the north and east sectors of the City to address the • need for additional parkland in growth areas of the City. Expand Jenkins and Holloway parks to add much needed parkland in this sector of the City, especially as • growth continues both within and outside of the City limits of Baytown. Accomplish • this goal within the next two years. • 2. Develop 5 to 10 Miles of Trails over the next decade - Trails were • consistently ranked as a top priority by residents during the public input process. Baytown has a current ratio of approximately one mile of trail • for every 10,000 residents. Trails should be constructed for walkers, • runners, and bicyclists. Trail development has become a means of alternative transportation throughout the nation. Providing a citywide, • interconnected trail system will allow residents to commute throughout • all of Baytown either by bike or on foot. Trails all over the City will allow residents to have a nearby place to walk or run for fun or to • improve their fitness. • • • • • 3. Preserve natural areas along upper Goose Creek, Cedar Bayou and other • drainage ways and natural areas throughout Baytown — Preservation of lands • along the major natural waterways in Baytown is vital. Outright acquisition is one • option for preservation. Preservation can also take the form of agreements with property owners to limit development in floodplain or floodway zones directly adjacent • to the waterways, and to preserve the existing vegetation and tree cover along the • waterways. Work to preserve at least 50% of the remaining undeveloped frontage within five years. • • • • • • 5. Develop initial three to five splash pads/ • spraygrounds throughout the City — to complete the • recommendations of the Aquatics Master Plan, develop splash pads/spraygrounds at a) Jenkins Park • (for the fast growing Northeast and North sectors of • the City), b) Bergeron Park (for the southwest • • • • p HALFF • • Set a goal of developing one new mile of trail every year for the next ten years, so that the City has a ratio that is closer to one mile of trail for every 5,000 residents by the year 2020. Many of these trails are also included in other goals in this plan. Key trails to focus on include a northern extension of the Goose Creek trail, new trails along Cedar Bayou, and most importantly, trails along the Tabbs Bay waterfront. 4. Enhance the Baytown Nature Center — the Nature Center and Wetlands Center are excellent facilities that rival those in much larger communities. However, they need to continue to be enhanced so that they can serve as significant attractors. Both facilities need to be considered as premier attractions to Baytown, and the environment, appearance and enhancements at both need to be considered at that level. Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan neighborhoods), c) McElroy Park (for the western neighborhoods of the City), d) Pelly Park or enhance existing spraygrounds at Roseland Park (for the central neighborhoods of Baytown), e) Downtown splash deck (to help spur development). Develop all within five years. 6. Develop a major lighted pier/remove hazardous old pilings and debrisldevelop trail and linear park along the waterfront in Baytown — an area location for nighttime fishing was an item frequently mentioned by residents of the City. Develop a pier along the Tabbs Bay waterfront as a key attraction to Baytown and as a catalyst for redevelopment of the area. Incorporate trails and node parks as components of this area. Urgently remove hazardous old pilings and submerged debris along the Tabbs Bay water front. Address the need for this facility within the next four to six years. 7. Create practice and game fields at East Little League/Ward Road Site in east Baytown — the Ward Road property is currently under an agreement with East Little League where they are responsible for maintaining the property. In partnership with the little league leadership, develop higher quality practice facilities on this property. Include some neighborhood park amenities. Redevelop this site within the next five years. 8. Acquire land for future parks in the north and eastern sectors of the City — Growth in Baytown is occurring to the east and north of the City, largely outside of the City limits. These areas will eventually be incorporated into the City, and will have significant needs for larger parks. Baytown should begin to identify potential lands for acquisition and program funds to secure these park sites. Identify and secure properties within the next five years. 9. Provide increased water access to Upper Goose Creek and Cedar Bayou — Develop additional node access points to these waterways in Baytown. Encourage use by promoting both motorized (where allowed) and non -motorized kayak and canoe access. Acquire and develop three to four new access points within five years. 10. Renovate Baytown Soccer Complex — while not the premier soccer complex in the area, soccer is a growth sport, and the Baytown Soccer Complex should be enhanced to provide a high quality location for the sport in the City. Renovate the park within the next three to five years. 11. Plan for and construct a State -of -the -Art Indoor Recreation Center - Baytown currently lacks a City -operated attractive indoor recreation center that can be used for fitness, exercise, and programming. The proposed indoor recreation center would range from 45,000 to 70,000 square feet in size. It could offer amenities such as gymnasiums for basketball and volleyball, fitness and cardio equipment room, indoor walking track, meeting rooms, arts and crafts room, dance studio, locker and la • • BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • Chapter 8 I The Home Stretch • changing rooms, racquetball courts, climbing wall, and multi purpose rooms for • programs. This is intended to be a multi -generational facility, and should also have programs and space specifically marketed towards seniors and teens. A potential • future phase that includes an indoor aquatic component for lap swimming should be • developed as the plan for the Center is created. • As part of the plan for indoor recreation, include funding for enhancements to the • Baytown Community Center so that it continues to function as part of the indoor recreation palette in the City. • • • • • Conduct a detailed feasibility study to determine how best to partner to develop the Center, how to fund and operate it, what it should contain and where best to place it. Such a study is projected to range in cost from $75,000 to $100,000. Conduct the feasibility study within two to three years. Fund and develop the Center within ten years. • 12. Develop Unidad Park as Baytown's "Action" Park — Add facilities for active sports to Unidad Park, including covered • basketball, quick soccer/in-line hockey, sand volleyball, additional • skatepark facilities and BMX bike facilities. Develop this action • park within the next four to six years. • 13. Create a "Central Park" for Baytown by linking existing parks in the center of the City together. Use landscaping, signs, • banners, trails, similar benches and furnishings, as well as • easements from existing properties where necessary to link parks together into one centrally themed area that can become • Baytown's major park. Create the framework for this park within the next four to six • years. • • • • • • 14. Enhance New Neighborhood Parks in Developing Areas - As the population of Baytown grows, ordinances that promote the development of neighborhood parks in new residential communities will be vital. Future neighborhood parks should be in central locations in those neighborhoods, should be at least two acres in size, and should include features such as additional shade pavilions, picnic tables, walking trails, playgrounds with shade, and open space play areas. Work to create ordinance structures that ensure that those parks are part of new developments. Accomplish this within one year so that new growth includes these parks. • 15. Enhance the historic buildings site at the Republic of Texas Plaza. • Assign sites for future additions, and create landscaping, fencing, lighting • and signage strategies that unify the historic structures and celebrate their place in Baytown. Accomplish this qoal within one to three years. • • • • • • ip HALFF • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan Action Plan The previous 15 items form the Action Plan which is the basic actions and tasks required in order for the City of Baytown to reach the target goals for the parks and recreation system. It maps out the immediate tasks at hand. Consider the following notes when reviewing the Action Plan: A& Sequence — The sequence is based directly on the recommended importance and need for each action. However, some actions may take longer to occur. In that case, other actions may be easier to accomplish sooner, but should not diminish the need for the higher priority actions. 41, Funding Possibilities — The sale of certificates of obligation may generate funding. The Action Plan is a guide, but may vary as specific needs or opportunities occur within the City. Other potential funding sources are noted but are not secured. Rather, they should be considered as possibilities to also pursue. Projected Costs — The projected costs per project are intended to establish an order of magnitude cost range. These estimates are made prior to any designs or detailed concepts being developed, and will vary as more detailed design occurs. Z Suggested Timeframe — The suggested timeframes are approximate and are intended to establish a sequence for all actions. Funding Strategies for Recommendations Different parks and recreation facilities will require different funding strategies. While improvements to existing parks and most trails can be built with local funds, other park, open space, and large facility projects may be able to contend for federal or state funds. This section provides brief descriptions of these funding implementation assistance opportunities. Key City Generated Funding Sources General Fund Expenditures — General fund expenditures are primarily used for operations and minor improvements. However, larger capital improvements to existing parks and facilities that are not known but that happen on a regular basis, such as replacing an HVAC system, are frequently not included in the year to year budget. Such a fund is recommended for Baytown to cover anticipated replacement costs. Currently, a total of $ is allocated annually. This plan recommends that that amount be increased to $ Municipal Development District (MDD) — Sales tax revenue is used to fund a variety of infrastructure needs throughout Baytown, including debt service. Allocations in future years may be used to address needs identified in the Parks Master Plan. • • • • • Chapter 8 I The Home Stretch • TIRZ Districts — Baytown has two active TIRZ districts (Districts 1 and 3). Increases in • property tax revenue generated in these districts may be used to fund public improvements. If • feasible, explore the use of TIRZ funds to address needs identified in this master plan. • Voter Approved Bond Funds — when feasible, a voter approved bond program to support park and facility developments within the next five years should be considered. • • Park Facility Funding through a Parkland Dedication and Parkland Development Ordinances — It is recommended that the City consider and adopt a Parkland Dedication and • Parkland Development Ordinance. This type of ordinance provides some lands and/or funding • for the development of neighborhood parks throughout the City in new residential developments. These types of ordinances are discussed further on Page 165. • • Key Grant Funding Sources • Grants can provide a significant source of additional funding for parks, but should not be • considered as the primary source for park construction. • Texas Parks and Wildlife Department — Texas Recreation and Parks Account (TRPA) is the • primary source for park grants in Texas, and in addition provides funding for recreational trails. • Up to a 50 percent match can be obtained, up to $500,000 for new park and trail facilities, as well as for indoor facilities. Grant applications that stress joint funding and support from two or • more local entities may have a greater chance in contending for the TRPA grants. • An expansion of Jenkins Park is a key need to response to significant population growth in the • north and east sectors of the City. This grant should be pursued by 2011. • Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) — This fund is divided into two funding • categories, state grants and federal acquisition. The state grants are distributed to all 50 • states, DC and other territories based on factors such as population. State grant funds can be • used for park development and for acquisition of parkland or easements. • Urban Park and Recreation Recovery Act (UPARR) — Funding for UPARR is currently not • available. Typically this funding source has supported traditional parks rather than linear parks. • Statewide Transportation Enhancement Program — This program provides monetary • support for transportation activities designed to strengthen the cultural, aesthetic and • environmental aspects of the transportation system. Typically, funds can be used for trails and • streetscape related projects. Funding is on a cost reimbursement basis, and projects selected are eligible for reimbursement of up to 80% of allowable costs. This funding program is not • available on a yearly basis, but intermittently only, often in two to five year periods. The next • opportunity for funding under this program is unknown at this time, but should be evaluated periodically. These funds, while difficult to work with, are becoming more responsible to real • • • • • Its HALFF • • • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan • • world costs, and should be seriously considered since they may remain one of the few sources • of outside funds. • Indoor Recreation Grants — These grants are available to local governments for the • construction or renovation of indoor recreation facilities. This assistance is in the form of 50% matching grant funds up to $750,000. Local governments must apply, permanently dedicate • the building for public recreational use and assume responsibility for operation and • maintenance. Application deadlines are July 31st each year. Awards are distributed in • January each year. Funding amounts may be limited over the next few years, but may be increased by the time Baytown is ready to develop new indoor facilities. • Recreational Trails Program (RTP) — These funds can be spent to construct new • recreational trails, improve/maintain existing trails, develop/improve trailheads or trailside • facilities, and acquire teal corridors/easements. It is a cost reimbursement program. Projects • may range in total cost between $5,000 and $100,000. Safe Routes to Schools — This is a federally funded reimbursement program which allows • State Departments of Transportation to administer the program. The purpose of the program • is to encourage children to walk or bike to school, including those with disabilities, by • promoting safer and more appealing routes and transportation altematives. Qualified • reimbursement projects can include improving sidewalks, traffic calming and speed reduction improvements, pedestrian and bicycle crossing improvements, on -street bicycle facilities, off- • street bicycle and pedestrian facilities, secure bicycle parking facilities, and traffic diversion • improvements. • Environmental Protection Agency — The EPA can provide funding for projects with money • collected in pollution settlements, or with funding targeted at wetland and habitat preservation or reclamation. • Foundation and Company Grants — These can assist in direct funding for projects, while • others exist to help citizen efforts get established with small seed funds or technical and • publicity assistance. • Grants for Greenways — This is a national listing that provides descriptions of a broad • spectrum of both general and specific groups who provide technical and financial support for • greenway interests. • Sidewalk Funding Sources — These sources currently construct sidewalks in existing areas • through citywide bond programs and with new developments through subdivision regulations. • Partnering with Volunteer Groups — Partnering with volunteer groups can be helpful when • constructing nature, bike, and equestrian trails. Their effort can be used as part of the required match for the Recreational Trails program. There are a variety of sources for • volunteers including user groups, local residents, corporate community service initiatives, and • business and civic support groups. • • • • a • • ► BAYTOWN • S • • • • • Chapter 8 I The Home Stretch • • Policies and Ordinances • • Parkland Dedication Ordinance — It is a priority recommendation of this Master Plan that the City of Baytown develops and adopts a Parkland Dedication Ordinance. This type of • ordinance can assist in the implementation of neighborhood parks in new areas of the City. • This type of ordinance is used by many cities, and is now generally not considered onerous by the development community, but rather is welcomed as a method to help fund smaller parks in • a timely fashion. The basic premise of a Parkland Dedication Ordinance is that it requires • development of new neighborhoods in a city to either develop a park for the residents of that neighborhood, or provide fees in lieu of a park to the City so that the City can provide a larger • park to those the residents elsewhere. Important considerations when developing a Parkland • Dedication Ordinance include: • l Include language that allows the Parks and Recreation Director to recommend to the • Parks and Recreation Advisory Board where fees in lieu of land are preferred. This • may occur if the area is already well supplied with parkland. • .4 Specify that a minimum of 50% of the perimeter of a proposed park site be situated along a publicly accessible corridor, preferably a street. This will reduce the • possibility of a park site that is trapped behind lots. • 4. Require that non-residential development also donate lands within the 100 year • floodplain along key greenbelt corridors throughout the City and ETJ such as Goose • Creek and Cedar Bayou, and their major tributaries. These lands should also allow • public access. • J. The Parks and Recreation Director should be responsible for review of development submissions regarding proposed parkland, and will make recommendations to the • Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Planning Commission, and City Council. The • reason for this is to vest review and recommendation -making power into the hands of • the person who is most knowledgeable regarding the parkland needs of the City. • 1 Add a fee for the development of parkland. Typically, lands that are donated have to • wait until adequate funding is available to initiate development of the neighborhood park. Consider adding a charge per lot (typically these charges vary from $100 to • $800 per unit in Texas). These funds would be used to specifically begin • development of the parkland that is dedicated by the new development. • Landscaping Ordinance — Baytown currently has a Landscaping Ordinance. Periodically, it • should be reviewed and updated so that the landscaping requirements for developments complement the goals of this Master Plan. • Trail Development Ordinance (as a component of a Parkland Dedication Ordinance) — • Consideration of a trail development ordinance is recommended. Similar ordinances have • been enacted in other cities in Texas, and have proven successful in helping to get trails • • • • HALFF • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan constructed. Often the City will fund regional trails or trailhead development, and require complete developer construction of key trail segments that fall within their property limits. Credits for landscaping, pavement, or other infrastructure elements can be given in return for trail construction. A central point to consider is that most development will add trails automatically; therefore, such a mandatory trail development ordinance only serves to create a level playing field between the many developments that include trails and those that will build them only if required to do so. Joint Planning with Goose Creek CISD Schools — Establish joint planning review sessions with Goose Creek CISD schools to allow for coordination of facilities and possible pooling of resources for a partnership in acquiring land for schools and parks. Operation and Maintenance "At least two of the major goals set by the Baytown's Comprehensive Plan lay within the scope of this department. Those are beautification and expanded recreational opportunities." 2009-2010 Adopted Budget With the recommendations of additional parks, recreation facilities, and trails, it should be recognized that additional manpower is needed for the required maintenance of these various projects. The number of additional staff needed to attend to these proposed facilities will vary depending on the use of these facilities. The provision of adequate staffing must be included as each facility is developed or the facility should not be built. A good example of this is the recently opened Pirates Bay Water Park. Operation staffing was factored into the bond to construct the water park. As the park system grows, additional maintenance resources should be provided to the Parks and Recreation Department. This includes new mowing and transporting equipment, as well as park maintenance staff. Over the next ten years, as new facilities are added, park maintenance staff should grow, at a minimum, at the same rate. Operation and maintenance needs and budgets are discussed below. The current and past parks and recreation operation and maintenance budgets are shown in the table below. For fiscal year 2009-2010, Baytown's Parks and Recreation Budget is 7.9% of the City's general fund — recent increases are attributable to operations at Pirates Bay Water Park, which are largely self -generated. As a percentage of the overall general fund, Baytown's budget is average for cities in the greater Houston area and throughout Texas. Table 8 - 2 Baytown Parks and Recreation Budget Actual Budget 2007-2008 2008-2009 Adopted 2009-2010 General Fund $56,824,049 $59,632,432 $60,662,813 Parks and Recreation Department Budget PARD Percent of General Fund $3,759,986 6.6% $4,261,908 7.1% $4,790,742 7.9% • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ta• • BAYTOWN • S • • • • • • • Plan Updates • Chapter 8 I The Home Stretch • The Baytown Parks and Recreation Master Plan is a guide to be used by the Baytown Parks and Recreation Department to address system needs over the next five to ten years. • However, during that timeframe, there will be changes that occur. The area population may • increase more rapidly than projected; the community may indicate a special need for a facility not listed in the recommendations; or development of some of the recommendations listed in • this Master Plan will occur. • A review and update of this Master Plan by city staff and the Baytown Parks Board should be • conducted on an annual basis, or when a significant change does occur. These updates can • be published in short report format and attached to this Master Plan for easy use. Four key • areas for focus of these periodic reviews are as follows: • ▪ • Facility Inventory — An inventory of new or updated city owned facilities should be recorded. This inventory should also mention any significant changes or • improvements to Goose Creek CISD schools, county parks, state parks, or major • private facilities that could influence recreation in Baytown. • 4. Public Involvement — As mentioned previously, this Master Plan reflects current • population and attitudes expressed by the citizens of Baytown. However, over time, those attitudes and interests may vary as the City changes. Periodic surveys are • recommended to provide a current account of the attitudes of the citizens, and to • provide additional direction from the public on issues that may arise. In order to make • an accurate comparison of the changes in attitudes, it is recommended that future surveys include similar questions to those included in this Master Plan. • .I. Facility Use — Facility use is a key factor in determining the need and renovation of • additional facilities. Updates on league participation and community center • participation should be incorporated each season with data from each association. • Changes in participation of those outside the city limits, as well as the citizens of Baytown, should also be recorded. • 4. Action Plan — As items from the action plan in this document are implemented, • updates should be made to the prioritized list to provide a current schedule for city • staff and elected officials. • • • • • • • • • HALFF • • Playbook 2020 I Strategic Parks & Recreation Master Plan N r Conclusion - From Good to Great Baytown's park system is in good condition. Many key deficiencies found in other communities in the areas of land acquisition, athletics, and access to parkland have been addressed over the past few years in Baytown, and in fact have been kept up. The Baytown Nature Center is an addition, recent initiatives to develop the new state-of-the-art aquatic facilities have addressed aquatic needs, and these point to the possibilities that well conceived modern recreation facilities can have on the City's bottom line. Key needs remain in the areas of addressing trails, indoor recreation, and park development needs triggered by future growth. All of these are high visibility features that will make Baytown a more attractive place to live in. A final key area to address revolves around the renovation and enhancement of existing parks. Like any capital asset, whether public or private, deterioration due to aging and to keep up with current trends is a constant. Periodic renovation of existing parks is taking place in Baytown, but needs to be accelerated to keep ahead of the aging curve. Expenditures for parks are extremely worthwhile investments. Baytown can be known not only as a good place to live and work, but as a great place with a high quality of life. These investments, when compared to the cost of other public infrastructure, are often not very high and yet do so much to enhance the image of Baytown. These investments can have a very real economic and job creation impact by attracting new industry, employers and residents to the City. This is one area in which Baytown has the opportunity to become exceptional, and to be recognized throughout Texas and the region. It is time to take Baytown's Parks system from good to great. M:- c • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •• BAYT • • • f), • 0 • • 0\0 • • • • • • • • • • • • • !.......!..•••i••••••••••••!••i••`••••i••S• • • :BAYTOWN 2010 PARKS AND RECREATION ATTITUDE • SURVEY CUMULATIVE RESULTS � PRELIMINARY FINDINGS (N=386) • PROJECT 01152010 11 RAYMOND TURCO & ASSOCIATES MAY 2010 • Instructions: Read each question and check the box that is closest to your opinion. •Check only one box per question unless the instructions say, "Check all that apply". • City council district of respondent 41 11 11 111 41 11 • 1 . Using the that apply) Walking/hiking on trails • Fishing Swimming "' Exercise/working out Bicycling • Baseball/softball Running/jogging 4/Boating • Basketball 112. In the past 12 months, following? 41 11 Visited a city park District 1 6% District 2 9% District 3 18% District 4 19% District 5 30% District 6 15% ETJ 3% list below, what are your favorite recreational activities? (Check all 66% Golf 17% 43% Football 16% 42% Tennis 15% 41% Volleyball 14% Soccer 13% Other 10% Skateboarding 7% Don't recreate 5% 37% 290 240 250 17% have you or your family participated in or utilized the Yes No Don't Remember • Visited a city playground • Participated in a city youth athletic league Participated in a city adult athletic league "' Participated in a class or program sponsored • by the Baytown Parks & Recreation Dept. • Participated in a class or program sponsored by someone other than the City of Baytown • Visited the Baytown Nature Center • Visited the Eddie V. Gray Wetlands Center • Visited a city skate park Visited the dog park • Used a non -city fitness center such as the • YMCA or private gym, etc. • • • 820 630 190 50 140 170 37% 800 93% 840 30% 680 400 360 25% 27% 510 590 63% 75% 720 480 1% 0 10 1% 0 10 10 1% 0 1% 0 10 0% 0 10 1% 0 3. What do you or your family generally do when you visit a city park? (Check all that apply) Walk or run on trails 59% Swim 15% Take kids to play 55% Participate in organized team View nature/wildlife 40% sports 14% Go to festivals or events 38% Don't visit parks 9% Picnic 32% Play non -organized sports/ Bike 19% pick-up games 8% Boating 18% Fishing 7% Other 4% 4. Check the box that best describes how strongly you agree or disagree with the following. If you have no opinion, please do not check a box. Level of Agreement Strongly Agree Strongly Agree Disagree Disagree I'm satisfied with the quality of parks 9% and recreation in Baytown. I'm satisfied with the quality of parks 7% in my neighborhood I feel safe when I visit a park in 6% Baytown. Better parks will help to improve our 61% city image. I feel that parks help strengthen our 44% City economically. I'm willing to pay additional city taxes 15% to see the quality of parks and recreational amenities upgraded. The City should improve existing parks 40% 49% before developing new ones. 60% 25% 7% 45% 59% 34 % 40% 37% 30% 26% 30 12% 29% 9% 2% 5. What is your favorite park in Baytown? Roseland (41%) , Jenkins (28%) , Miscellaneous - only one response - illegible (7%) , Nature center (7%), . . . . 6. What amenities or recreation features would you add to improve that park? Trails - walking - biking - connections (13%), Picnic area - pavilion (11%), Miscellaneous - one response - illegible (10%), . . 7. Using a scale of excellent, good, fair or poor, and based on whatever impressions you may have, how would you rate Baytown regarding the following recreational characteristics. Rating Excellent Good Fair Poor Number of parks in the City Having parks conveniently located for people in all areas The overall quality of city parks The overall safety of city parks The maintenance of city parks The variety of recreational facilities within parks The number of athletic fields in the City 10% 52% 32% 60 8° 0 5% 5% 7% 4% 46% 37% 9% 52 % 42% 51% 40% 9% 56% 38% 39% 36% 45% 29% 6% II II Rating • Excellent Good Fair Poor • Having athletic fields conveniently 9% 52% 31% 9% located for people in all areas 41 The overall quality of athletic fields 8% 58% 31% 3% • The maintenance of athletic fields 10% 57% 30% 4% The number of practice fields in the City 5% 46% 39% 9% W Having practice fields conveniently 5% 43% 42% 10% • located for people in all areas • The overall quality of practice fields 7% 46% 40% 7% The overall quality of the community 7% 57% 32% 4% OP center • The variety of classes and programs 8% 51% 35% 6% • offered by Baytown Parks & Rec Dept. The overall quality of classes and 7% 50% 37% 5% II programs offered • The overall quality of playgrounds in the 8% 52% 37% 4% Ak City IP The visual quality of the bays and bayous 4% 36% 41% 19% II The amount of accessible natural areas 4% 39% 44% 14% • The amount of access to water and bays 4% 38% 44% 14% The amount of water based recreation 3% 26% 44% 26% IP sports available 41 • 8. What Wetlands Center camps and education courses are you or your child most • interested? (Check all that apply) Making Science Make Sense . . . 47% • Wade into Wetlands Summer Camp 44% • Other 36% Hunter Education 31% II Oceanography/Dive 26% • Boater Safety Program 17% • Gator Tales 7% II 9. Are there any other amenities or features you would like to see added to the Wetlands • Center? More classes - programs - tours - activities (24%), Miscellaneous (19%), Rebuild OP marina - boat docks - fishing piers (19%), Birding - animals (11%), . . . . II • 10. What activities do you enjoy when you visit the Baytown Nature Center? (Check all that apply) II Boating 59% Childrens' Discovery Playground 35% • Nature photography 57% Geocaching 19% Ak OtherIP 41% Pre-school programs 16% Crystal Bay Butterfly Garden 40% Fishing 5% 41 Trail use (hiking and biking) 36% Birding/wildlife viewing 4% II 11. Are there any other amenities or features you would like to see added to the Baytown IIP Nature Center? • Nature - wildlife tours - education - viewing (24%), Miscellaneous - one response • - illegible (21%) , Playground (16%) , More shade - covered picnic area (8%) , Boat ramps • (8%), Better maintenance (5%), • • • 12. Please check the box that best describes how the following trail -related statements: strongly you agree or disagree with Level of Agreement Strongly Agree Agree Strongly Disagree Disagree I would like trails in Baytown to connect my neighborhood to nearby schools, parks, shops, restaurants, and civic facilities. I would feel comfortable if a hike and bike trail was located adjacent to my home. I feel safe when I use a trail in Baytown. I would like to see trails developed as an alternative means of transportation in Baytown. I have walked, jogged or bicycled on a Baytown trail in the past 12 months. Trails are located close to where I live. Trails in Baytown are wide enough to handle multiple users and activities. There is convenient parking and access to trails near where I live. Trails in Baytown are well maintained. There are adequate amenities along trails in Baytown such as benches, lighting, etc. I would use my bicycle to get to work if trails were more accessible to my employment area. I would allow my children to use their bicycle to get to school if trails were more accessible in my neighborhood. Trails in Baytown are located in areas where they get used. I prefer riding my bicycle using streets and roads instead of off-street trails. 39% 39% 160 60 300 43% 21% 6% 70 52% 31% 10% 23% 44% 25% 7% 29% 42% 17% 12% 9% 26% 39% 26% 11% 52% 280 9% 11% 36% 36% 160 10% 57% 26% 70 50 29% 49% 17% 13% 260 36% 26% 12% 32% 35% 20% 4% 43% 42% 11% 6% 25% 43% 26% 13. If additional trails were constructed locations or destinations would you like Parks 66% Along the bays/water front 63% Baytown Nature Center 52% Schools 38% Wetlands Center 37% Other nearby neighborhoods 36% Shopping 28% Lee College 28% in Baytown, to which of the following to see them connect? (Check all that apply) Libraries 27% Restaurants 21% Employment areas 18% Churches 17% Downtown 15% City Hall 10% Other 3% 14. Which of the following (Check all that apply) Other 70% Christmas Parade 66% Community Yard Sale . ▪ 25% Halloween Carnival • ▪ 21% Daddy & Me Dance 20% Veterans Day Ceremony . 14% Special Olympics 14% City of Baytown events have you or your family attended? Don't participate in any events July 3 & 4 Celebration Grito Fest Company Cup 5K Art Exhibition & Reception Ballroom Dances Second Chance Prom 15. What reason could you list for NOT attending events in Baytown? No knowledge - unaware - no advertising (24%), No time - work - schedule (16%), Safety - gangs - drunks (10%), No interest - boring (10%), . conflict 16. Which of the following general types of special events would you like to see held in the City? If there are other events you would like to see in Baytown, write it in the appropriate area. (Check all that apply) Concerts/music festivals Cultural/art festivals Holiday festivals Nature festivals Teen specific events Senior/active older citizens events I am satisfied with what City currently offers 14% Other 6% 17. Do you go outside or fitness programs? of the City of Baytown for recreational 64 % 49% 39% 35 % 28% . . 25% activities, sports, Yes No Don't know 18. Outside of Baytown, what city do you primarily travel to activities? Houston (41%), Clear Lake (12%), Galveston (8%), Kemah (5%), 59% 40% 1% for recreational 19. What recreational activity or sport do you primarily participate in outside of Baytown? Festivals - events - concerts - museums - dining (16%), Fishing - Walking - jogging - hiking (11%), Boating - water skiing (8%), . . 20. Using the list below, please check all of the organizations you utilize when participating in fitness activities, sports, or hobbies. apply) hunting (14%) , or your family (Check all that Private clubs/gyms Churches Don't utilize any facilities YMCA Baytown Community Center Other Non-profit youth organizations Goose Creek CISD 42% 39% 29% 23% 21% 15% 14% 110 21. If the City were to construct an indoor recreation center similar to or better than those offered by non -city providers (such as the YMCA, private gyms, or churches) how likely or unlikely would you be to primarily utilize the City facility? Very likely . . 25% Likely 41% Unlikely . . . 24% Very unlikely . 11% 22. Which of the following are possible reason(s) that you might have for not having participated in Baytown's recreation or programs? (Check all that apply). Do not know what is offered . . . . 49% Poorly maintained facilities . . 11% Programs at inconvenient times . . 25% Registration is confusing/ Programs/classes crowded or full . 23% difficult 11% Use private gyms/facilities . 21% Not enough time to participate 10% Lack of facilities 20% Inadequate staffing 7% Fees too high 17% Other 7% Not interested in programs 14% No transportation 4% Lack of parking 13% 23. Which of the following age groups do you feel are underserved by the City with regards to recreation and athletic programs? If you feel all age groups are served, check the appropriate box. (Check all that apply) Youth 12 and under Teens 13 - 18 Adults 19 - 49 Boomers 50 - 64 Seniors 65+ All age groups are adequately served 18% 32 % 27% 25% 19% 27% 24. Which of the following recreational program categories would you like to see the City place more emphasis? If there are other programs that need emphasis, please identify them in the appropriate area. (Check all that apply) Fitness 37% Gymnastics/dance Summer/Spring Break Camps 37% Art/music 33% Aquatics 30% After school/day camps 24% Senior field trips 23% 25. Check the sources below from activities in Baytown. (Check The Baytown Sun Word of mouth Other City's internet home page Houston Chronicle Recreation brochures all 70% 54 % 22% 21% 21% 18% School field trips Athletic leagues Pre-school programs No more emphasis is needed . Other 22% 22% 20% 15% 8% 4% which you get information about recreational that apply) Social media (Twitter, Facebook,etc) 13% Channel 16 12% Parks & Recreation Office Marquee 5% School flyers 9% 3% • 40 26. In the past year, how often would you say you visited the Parks and Recreation • Department web page on the City's website? • Daily 1% Weekly 7% 11 Monthly 18% • Rarely or never 74% 4, 27 Please tell us how strongly you agree or disagree with the following statements • related to the value of parks and trails. 11 a) If I were buying a new home in Baytown, I would buy a higher priced home if I knew 411, it was within walking distance of a park or trail than a home I liked equally well • that was not within walking distance of a park or trail. • Strongly agree . . 26% Agree 41% 11 Disagree 24% • Strongly disagree 9% 111 b) I believe that the value of my home is enhanced if located within walking distance • of a park or trail. • Strongly agree 29% • Agree 47% Disagree 19% • Strongly disagree 6% • 28. Baytown needs to know where to direct its efforts as it strives to meet the City's park and recreational needs. Please indicate how important or unimportant it is for • the following items to be provided or added in city parks. Check only one response • per line Level of Importance 11 Very Unimport- Very unim- • important Important ant portant Baseball/softball fields (adult size) 19% 54% 23% 4% IP Baseball/softball fields (youth size) 35% 50% 12% 3% • Basketball courts 23% 56% 18% 3% • Community gardens 23% 54% 19% 4% Disc golf course(s) 14% 37% 38% 10% RIP Expanded skate parks 14% 44% 34% 8% • Fishing piers 33% 55% 9% 2% i Fitness classes 25% 55% 19% 1% Kayak and canoe launching boat ramps 22% 49% 26% 2% • Lighted fishing piers for early 40% 48% 9% 3% • morning/late evening use More lighting in parks 58% 37% 4% 1% 111 More special events 32% 48% 19% 2% 10 Pavilions for group activities/picnics 42% 49% 7% 2% • Playgrounds 40% 54% 4% 1% Ramps for motorized boats 25% 52% 21% 2% W Rebuild Bayland Marina 31% 41% 22% 6% • Sand volleyball courts 18% 50% 28% 3% • Soccer/football fields 21% 54% 21% 4% Sports and activity campus 27% 55% 17% 2% • State-of-the-art indoor recreation 38% 41% 19% 3% • center 0 Teen center for teen activities 42% 49% 6% 3% • 11 Level of Importance 11 Very Unimport- Very unim- • important Important ant portant Tennis courts 24% 53% 21% 2% 11 Trails 46% 47% 6% 1% 11 29. Using the same list, what are the THREE facilities you or your family feel are • most needed? Please write a number in three of the boxes below. Write 1 for your first 11 choice, 2 for your second choice, and 3 for your third choice. 11 Trails (32%) , Teen center for teen activities (28%) , More lighting in parks (27%) , • State-of-the-art indoor recreation center (26%), Playgrounds (21%), . . . . 11 30. How frequently do you vote in city -related elections, such as city council or • bond elections? Always . . . 38% 11 Often . . . . 31% 11 Seldom . . . . 16% 41 Never . . . 15% • 31. Check the box that best describes how strongly you would support or oppose the city utilizing the following financing strategies to increase the amount of funding • available to the Parks and Recreation Department? Level of Support 11 Strongly Strongly • support Support Oppose oppose • Increase the fees for those who 12% 42% 35% 11% participate in organized sports and 11 recreational programs. • Increase rental fees for park 9% 45% 38% 8% facilities. 11 Allow corporate sponsorship and 40% 49% 7% 4% 41 advertising at city parks and • recreational facilities. Voter approved bond programs. 24% 56% 13% 7% 11 Increase the city's property tax to 6% 25% 40% 29% Il support additional park development and 11 recreation programming. Redirect a portion of the city sales tax 27% 58% 10% 5% 111 revenue to park and recreation programs • and facility development. 41 32. What is your home ZIP code? 11 77521 (56%), 77520 (39%), 77523 (5%), . • 33. Do you own or rent your primary residence? 111 Own . . . 93% 11 Rent . . 7% • 34. Are you . . 11 Male 45% 111 Female . . 55% 11 • •35. What age group do you fall under? 11 11 11 11 11 4036. How long have you lived in Baytown? • • • • Under 18 years old . . 0% 18 - 24 years old . . 1% 25 - 35 years old . . 15% 36 - 55 years old . . 38% 55 - 65 years old . . 24% 65+ years old . 22% Less than 3 years . 4% 4 - 6 years 6% 7 - 10 years 9% 10 - 20 years 14% More than 20 years 66% 4037. Check the appropriate age groups for the children under 18 currently living in •your home. (Check all that apply) No children . . . . 49% • Under 6 years old . 20% • 6 - 12 years old . 25% • 13 - 18 years old . 24% 4038. What is your race? (Check all that apply) • White/Caucasian . . . . 73% • African American/Black ▪ 8% Asian 2% 11 Hispanic or Latino . 18% • Other 2% • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • BAYTOWN 2010 PARKS AND RECREATION ATTITUDE SURVEY CUMULATIVE RESULTS ONLINE FINDINGS (N=594) PROJECT 01152010 RAYMOND TURCO & ASSOCIATES MAY-JUNE 2010 Instructions: Read each question and check the box that is closest to your opinion. Check only one box per question unless the instructions say, "Check all that apply". City council district of respondent 1. Using the list below, what are that apply) Walking/hiking on trails Fishing Swimming Exercise/working out Bicycling Baseball/softball Running/jogging Boating Basketball District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 ETJ N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A your favorite recreational activities? (Check all 60% 42 0 480 450 36% 33% 32 % 28% 20% 2. In the past 12 months, have you or your following? Golf 17% Football 17% Tennis 16% Volleyball 22% Soccer 11% Other 12% Skateboarding 7% Don't recreate 2% family participated Yes No in or utilized the Don't Remember Visited a city park Visited a city playground Participated in a city youth athletic league Participated in a city adult athletic league Participated in a class or program sponsored by the Baytown Parks & Recreation Dept. Participated in a class or program sponsored by someone other than the City of Baytown Visited the Baytown Nature Center Visited the Eddie V. Gray Wetlands Center Visited a city skate park Visited the dog park Used a non -city fitness center such as the YMCA or private gym, etc. 85% 68 % 22% 16% 21% 14% 31% 76% 83% 76% 34 % 64 % 42 % 39% 27 % 28% 59% 57 % 60% 72% 70% 40% 2° 0 • • • 3. What do you or your family generally do when you visit a city park? (Check all • that apply) Walk or run on trails 60% Swim 19% II Take kids to play 61% Participate in organized team • View nature/wildlife 38% sports 17% Go to festivals or events 42% Don't visit parks 6% W Picnic 39% Play non -organized sports/ • Bike 22% pick-up games 16% • Boating 18% Fishing 27% • Other 7% • 4. Check the box that best describes how strongly you agree or disagree with the • following. If you have no opinion, please do not check a box. Level of Agreement II Strongly Strongly • Agree Agree Disagree Disagree • I'm satisfied with the quality of parks 7% 48% 36% 9% and recreation in Baytown. II I'm satisfied with the quality of parks 8% 37% 37% 18% • in my neighborhood. I feel safe when I visit a park in 9% 51% 29% 10% W Baytown. • Better parks will help to improve our 67% 26% 4% 2% • city image. I feel that parks help strengthen our 49% 34% 12% 4% 10 City economically. • I'm willing to pay additional city taxes 26% 31% 26% 16% • to see the quality of parks and recreational amenities upgraded. II The City should improve existing parks 49% 38% 11% 2% • before developing new ones. 41 5. What is your favorite park in Baytown? II Roseland (36%), Jenkins (21%), Nature center (6%), Wayne Gray Sports Complex (5%), • Bicentennial and dog park (both 4%), . . . . 411 6. What amenities or recreation features would you add to improve that park? • Trails/trail system/bike lanes (15%), playground equipment/slides/swings (11%), • swimming pool (10%), safety/security/police patrols (8%), restroom improvements, • covered areas/picnic tables, and water features/splash/water park (each 7%) , . . . . • 7. Using a scale of excellent, good, fair or poor, and based on whatever impressions • you may have, how would you rate Baytown regarding the following recreational characteristics. II Rating • Excellent Good Fair Poor • Number of parks in the City 12% 53% 30% 5% Having parks conveniently located for 12% 43% 33% 12% II people in all areas • The overall quality of city parks 5% 44% 42% 9% The overall safety of city parks 6% 42% 35% 17% IP The maintenance of city parks 9% 46% 34% 12% • The variety of recreational facilities 5% 39% 42% 14% • within parks • Rating Excellent Good Fair Poor The number of athletic fields in the City Having athletic fields conveniently located for people in all areas The overall quality of athletic fields The maintenance of athletic fields The number of practice fields in the City Having practice fields conveniently located for people in all areas The overall quality of practice fields The overall quality of the community center The variety of classes and programs offered by Baytown Parks & Rec Dept. The overall quality of classes and programs offered The overall quality of playgrounds in the City The visual quality of the bays and bayous The amount of accessible natural areas The amount of access to water and bays The amount of water based recreation sports available 10% 52% 300 8% 8% 50% 32% 10% 7% 55% 31% 7% 9% 51% 32% 8% 6% 43% 40% 11% 6% 45% 38% 11% 5% 45% 40% 10% 7% 49% 36% 8% 10% 48% 36% 7% 10% 50% 34% 6% 5% 50% 37% 9% 60 35% 36% 22% 8% 38% 37% 17% 8% 36% 35% 21% 5% 27% 39% 30% 8. What Wetlands Center camps and education courses are you or your interested? (Check all that apply) child most Making Science Make Sense . . . 47% Wade into Wetlands Summer Camp . 45% Other 8% Hunter Education 41% Oceanography/Dive 40% Boater Safety Program 38% Gator Tales 36% 9. Are there any other amenities or features you would like to see added to the Wetlands Center? Classes/education/exhibits (26%), fishing piers (18%), activities for small children and swimming (both 9%) , . . . . 10. What activities do you enjoy when you visit the Baytown Nature Center? (Check all that apply) Boating Nature photography Other Crystal Bay Butterfly Garden Trail use (hiking and biking) 18% Childrens' Discovery Playground . 41% Geocaching 6% Pre-school programs 38% Fishing 62% Birding/wildlife viewing 39% 12% 16% 33% 52 % 11. Are there any other amenities or features you would like to see added to the Baytown Nature Center? Trails (17%), fishing piers/with lighting and tables/picnic areas (both 12%), boat ramps/kayak launch/rentals, classes/education/playgrounds/children/activities, and price reduction (each 7%), . . . . II II • 12 . Please check the box that best describes how strongly you agree or disagree with •the following trail -related statements: Level of Agreement 40 Strongly Strongly • Agree Agree Disagree Disagree • I would like trails in Baytown to connect 50% 33% 12% 4% my neighborhood to nearby schools, • parks, shops, restaurants, and civic • facilities. I would feel comfortable if a hike and 36% 41% 17% 6% W bike trail was located adjacent to my II home. • I feel safe when I use a trail in Baytown. 11% 46% 31% 12% I would like to see trails developed as 30% 42% 20% 8% W an alternative means of transportation • in Baytown. • I have walked, jogged or bicycled on a 35% 37% 17% 12% Baytown trail in the past 12 months. II Trails are located close to where I live. 9% 22% 42% 28% • Trails in Baytown are wide enough to 16% 49% 25% 10% handle multiple users and activities. IP There is convenient parking and access to 7% 37% 36% 20% II trails near where I live. • Trails in Baytown are well maintained. 12% 60% 21% 8% There are adequate amenities along 6% 33% 45% 16% 11, trails in Baytown such as benches, • lighting, etc. • I would use my bicycle to get to work if 21% 26% 28% 25% trails were more accessible to my 11 employment area. • I would allow my children to use their 16% 29% 32% 23% • bicycle to get to school if trails were more accessible in my neighborhood. II Trails in Baytown are located in areas 4% 45% 34% 17% • where they get used. I prefer riding my bicycle using streets 8% 24% 41% 26% IP and roads instead of off-street trails. II 4013. If additional trails were constructed in Baytown, to which of the following locations or destinations would you like to see them connect? (Check all that apply) MP Parks 70% Libraries 34% • Along the bays/water front 71% Restaurants 30% * Baytown Nature Center 48% Employment areas 30% Schools 46% Churches 24% ' Wetlands Center 36% Downtown 20% • Other nearby neighborhoods 40% City Hall 14% Ah Shopping 35% Other 6% IP Lee College 43% • • • • • • 14. Which of the following City of Baytown events have you or your family attended? • (Check all that apply) Other 8% Don't participate in any events 9% 11 Christmas Parade 70% July 3 & 4 Celebration 73% 11 Community Yard Sale . 26% Grito Fest 16% • Halloween Carnival . 19% Company Cup 5K 9% Daddy & Me Dance 14% Art Exhibition & Reception 14% 11 Veterans Day Ceremony . 17% Ballroom Dances 4% 11 Special Olympics 21% Second Chance Prom 4% 11 15. What reason could you list for NOT attending events in Baytown? 11 Busy/working/scheduling (23%), unaware of events/lack of advertising (22%), no • interest (12%), too crowded/rude people/unsavory (12%), safety/security/crime (11%) , . . . . • • 16. Which of the following general types of special events would you like to see held • in the City? If there are other events you would like to see in Baytown, write it in the appropriate area. (Check all that apply) 11 Concerts/music festivals 67%11 Cultural/art festivals 51% • Holiday festivals 51% Nature festivals 41% 111 Teen specific events 34% • Senior/active older citizens events 22% I am satisfied with what City 11 currently offers 11% 11 Other 11% • 17. Do you go outside of the City of Baytown for recreational activities, sports, 10 or fitness programs? 11 Yes 75% • No 24% Don't know 1% 11 18. Outside of Baytown, what city do you primarily travel to for recreational • activities? 10 Houston (36%), Clear Lake (8%), Kemah and LaPorte (both 6%), Galveston (5%), Mont 41 Belview and Pasadena (both 3%), . . . . • 19. What recreational activity or sport do you primarily participate in outside of 11 Baytown? 11 Hiking/walking/running (14%), beach/water activities/swimming and • festivals/events/concerts (both 11%), fishing (10%), baseball and bicycling (both 6%), golf (5%), softball and parks/family activities/zoo (both 4%), . 111 • 41 20. Using the list below, please check all of the organizations you or your family • utilize when participating in fitness activities, sports, or hobbies. (Check all that • apply) Private clubs/gyms 43% II Churches 37% • Don't utilize any facilities 15% YMCA 22% • Baytown Community Center 20% • Other 10% • Non-profit youth organizations 18% • Goose Creek CISD 33% • 21. If the City were to construct an indoor recreation center similar to or better • than those offered by non -city providers (such as the YMCA, private gyms, or churches) how likely or unlikely would you be to primarily utilize the City facility? 10 Very likely . . 44% • Likely 32% • Unlikely . . . 16% Very unlikely . 8% II • 22. Which of the following are possible reason(s) that you might have for not having participated in Baytown's recreation or programs? (Check all that apply). 11, Do not know what is offered . 48% Poorly maintained facilities . 16% • Programs at inconvenient times . 27% Registration is confusing/ • Programs/classes crowded or full 10% difficult 9% Use private gyms/facilities 21% Not enough time to participate 28% 10 Lack of facilities 28% Inadequate staffing 11% • Fees too high 22% Other 10% • Not interested in programs . . 18% No transportation 5% Lack of parking 12% II • 23. Which of the following age groups do you feel are underserved by the City with regards to recreation and athletic programs? If you feel all age groups are served, IIP check the appropriate box. (Check all that apply) • Youth 12 and under 25% • Teens 13 - 18 41% Adults 19 - 49 39% • Boomers 50 - 64 25% • Seniors 65+ 16% • All age groups are adequately served 15% II • 24. Which of the following recreational program categories would you like to see the City place more emphasis? If there are other programs that need emphasis, please IP identify them in the appropriate area. (Check all that apply) • Fitness 44% Gymnastics/dance 19% • Summer/Spring Break Camps 40% School field trips 17% Art/music 36% Athletic leagues 28% 410 Aquatics 36% Pre-school programs 16% • After school/day camps 26% No more emphasis is needed . . 6% 0 Senior field trips 15% Other 7% • • • 25. Check the sources activities in Baytown. The Baytown Sun Word of mouth Other City's internet home Houston Chronicle Recreation brochures 26. In the past Department web Weekly Monthly Rarely or below from which you get information about recreational (Check all that apply) 69% Social media (Twitter, Facebook,etc) 10% 57% Channel 16 16% 5% Parks & Recreation Office 17% page 35% Marquee 14% 15% School flyers 24% 12% year, how often would you say you visited the Parks and Recreation page on the City's website? Daily 2% 10% 240 never 64% 27. Please tell us how strongly you agree or disagree with the following statements related to the value of parks and trails. a) If I were buying a new home in Baytown, it was within walking distance of a park that was not within walking distance of I would buy a higher priced home if I knew or trail than a home I liked equally well a park or trail. Strongly agree 29% Agree 39% Disagree 21% Strongly disagree 11% b) I believe that the value of my home is enhanced if located within walking distance of a park or trail. Strongly agree 36% Agree 41% Disagree 15% Strongly disagree 9% 28. Baytown needs to know where to direct its efforts as it strives to meet the City's park and recreational needs. Please indicate how important or unimportant it is for the following items to be provided or added in city parks. Check only one response per line. Very important Level of Importance Unimport- Important ant Very unim- portant Baseball/softball fields (adult size) Baseball/softball fields (youth size) Basketball courts Community gardens Disc golf course(s) Expanded skate parks Fishing piers Fitness classes Kayak and canoe launching boat ramps Lighted fishing piers for early morning/late evening use More lighting in parks More special events Pavilions for group activities/picnics 24% 40% 24% 28% 13% 16% 40% 37% 35% 49% 68% 40% 45% 46% 40% 51% 44% 37% 39% 49% 43% 41% 40% 28% 40% 40% 22% 15% 18% 20% 37% 31% 8° 0 15% 19% 9° 0 20 17% 11% 9% 5% 70 70 14% 14% 2° 0 4% 5% 3% 10 3% 3% 40 40 Level of Importance • Very Unimport- Very unim- • important Important ant portant Playgrounds 46% 42% 8% 3% • Ramps for motorized boats 33% 41% 22% 5% • Rebuild Bayland Marina 42% 33% 14% 10% Sand volleyball courtsIP 28% 39% 24% 8% Soccer/football fields 26% 45% 20% 9% 40 Sports and activity campus 40% 44% 11% 5% • State-of-the-art indoor recreation 56% 32% 7% 5% • center Teen center for teen activities 54% 38% 6% 3% • Tennis courts 26% 47% 24% 4% • Trails 68% 23% 5% 4% • 29. Using the same list, what are the THREE facilities you or your family feel are • most needed? Please write a number in three of the boxes below. Write 1 for your first • choice, 2 for your second choice, and 3 for your third choice. 40 First choice - More lighting in parks (15%) , playgrounds (8%) , community gardens (8%) , • baseball/softball fields, fishing piers, fitness classes, and lighted fishing pier • (each 7%) . . 40 Second choice - fishing piers (10%), more lighting in parks (9%), lighted fishing • piers (8%) , playgrounds (8%) , pavilions for group activities/picnics (7%) , kayak and • canoe launching boat rams (7%), . • Third choice - More lighting in parks (12%) , pavilions for group activities/picnics • (11%), fishing piers (8%), community gardens (7%), lighted fishing piers (7%), • playgrounds (6%), fitness classes (6%), . • Trails ( %), Teen center for teen activities ( %), More lighting in parks ( %), • State-of-the-art indoor recreation center ( %), Playgrounds ( %), . . • Always . . . 40% Often . . . . 30% • Seldom . . . . 12% • Never . . . 18% 40 31. Check the box that best describes how strongly you would support or oppose the • city utilizing the following financing strategies to increase the amount of funding 40 30. How frequently do you vote in city -related elections, such as city council or • bond elections? • available to the Parks and Recreation Department? Level of Support • Strongly Strongly • support Support Oppose oppose Increase the fees for those who 15% 36% 39% 10% * participate in organized sports and • recreational programs. • Increase rental fees for park 15% 42% 34% 9% facilities. • Allow corporate sponsorship and 48% 42% 7% 3% • advertising at city parks and • recreational facilities. 9 Level of Support Strongly support Support Oppose Strongly oppose Voter approved bond programs. Increase the city's property tax to support additional park development and recreation programming. Redirect a portion of the city sales tax revenue to park and recreation programs and facility development. 250 110 340 53% 150 280 37% 49% 90 70 240 80 32. What is your home ZIP code? 77521 ( %), 77520 ( %), 77523 %), . 33. Do you own or rent your primary residence? 34. Are you . . 35. What age group do you fall under? 36. How long have you lived in Baytown? 37. Check the appropriate age groups for your home. (Check all that apply) the Own . . Rent . Male Female . . Under 18 years old 18 - 24 years old 25 - 35 years old 36 - 55 years old 55 - 65 years old 65+ years old . . 85% 150 420 580 30 90 . 240 . 430 . 16% 50 Less than 3 years .11% 4 - 6 years 7% 7 - 10 years 7% 10 - 20 years 19% More than 20 years 56% children under 18 currently living in 38. What is your race? (Check all that apply) No children . . . Under 6 years old 6 - 12 years old 13 - 18 years old White/Caucasian . . African American/Black Asian Hispanic or Latino Other . 41% . 24% . 29% . 300 • 720 7° 0 10 210 4° 0 Legend doe Eos'ng Is ••• Poposed 1 Ricssenrendalnos ...I Paladin Utin Cann Rol °maturities ... Psnilla Long Sentra Opoorknlin Pnnsed Potsef Sdnots • Cly Linn El Linls Oors/Charben Cowin Ur* Act, Of ieltakt Pon 7 Non -on Pan ▪ C-olf Canes II Sc. ools Nen/Snails 111 Flooegicin • 6311/SnOn • Ensattil BA1;TOWN • .'112:7D7 Proposed Trail Opportunities e eation Mast COB P LATE LAYOUT • •• Potema Oily Conaot Irol Oo0a l trei ••• PotenSro long lean fear Oppartkokres aaa Proposeo Portway Streaks ■ Cly min aril EU Lends MatslCnonbrs Comfy omits ® Cly of Barown Parts U MP�I ▪ Golf Canes • Sa Dols Long term trail opportunities along the irrigation canals in the north Parkway sidewalks needed to connect neighborhoods to nearby schools 1 Legend • Fasting Trj6 .•.:,cooed l of 7ecammxic]tens ... ?otenici UWy Conida Irjl OpoodJritm ••• °olenio Lcrj lem'r0i0Foat niter ooa ;,ccosed P7t.cy Sdevats '• City Lm7 EU limits iarsiChombes Casty ;kris Ch of brown Pats North/Fats ■ ;.d Courses ▪ Sc^zk C,eeYssSieam ▪ Pkcbldn . 9o1j ae EucrMCb 13-11 TOW\ Long term trail opportunities along the irrigation canals in the north Highlands Reservoir Proposed Trail Opportunities Potential for reservoir to double as a future park site with trails ▪ bring Arch ••• Prpcsed "lot Recornrrencotroes ••• Polenlid Alit). Cueoo Bol OCpatudbe ••• Potent° .ong term Adt Cpoorturntes 000 Ptopc ed Poirot kirwaks ■ ay Lrits • Lnits li•iis,'trvmb•s Costf Jrrls 7 at), 0' 3aytcoel Ports Non -cry Poses GcI Copses ▪ Stlwrn Creeks:Streoro . foocpJdn . 6arsfeVcter Eno0No0 Q C 1 Potential for reservoir to double as a future park site with trails 4.74 Trails and paddling trails proposed along Cedar Bayou v 0aD :ice Proposed Trail Opportunities PLATE A•3 • • • • • • i • . 010 Edsfig kcie o we F Nosed ?raj Reccnenenaatiors u s Potened Ilfity Combor 1iN Oaov. u se Poteneo lag term. hdI Opoat.r:f e: oao Proposed Pathway Sidewalks •eg Et) WS •• Haels/Ceanaess Cointy trr . City of Baytown Pats LiMon-a!y Pots . Got Canes I Schools Cieeld/Sheans . Foodolor ▪ Boygetoter ▪ EomnMoGi Long term trail potential along the powerline corridor Trails and paddling trails proposed along Cedar Bayou • Proposed Trail Opportunities Legend f • Fasting 'tan ••• P,OOosed lral Re[annrenaotmre ••• notarial Uli>y CGtnad hd OCCatuntet • so Foten r 19 ten 1,01 D COAindes 00o Plcoose0 PJtt y Sre.o s ▪ City Liles • Ell Leis — ntroiCkrrtion Cosnty.la+ls City of Baytoo, Pats Ibntitf Puts . Gott Canes ▪ Sc^cion N CteesvS'tevrs ■ eaxan . goys/water . EuoMlml BAIyTOWN g • ono 00000000y—)oo^o' o ,4 -d- 9 `S r.dahIIa'NG14 •Mry. t J U r { a t at- Potential trails along gas line easements will be difficult to construct but are still considered opportunities Ai O,rwa1 Dons Proposed Trail Opportunities Potential Rails to Trails opportunity along railroad corridor Ba ow Re reati•n o�t ark nd Master Plan tIZYitt Y `r. Spa •e'R:.' iL F PLATE B-i ashington Legend Mae, Park ••• 'reposeO Trod RecetTrendcrivs rare 'credo Ut51y Crceeked Oppa!un.fies sae ?alentd Long rem Tod Oopc^un dies eee?Wined Porkaay keedts • Gly Umh ELJ Liners ho'e/Ct'a^oeg Carry Linz ▪ City or Baytown ?arts Na.city ?arts . Golf Cossas ▪ Schoch C'eetZlreams 111 aocapan . baysrvia* ▪ Eason Mop O v 't OOC3� A O, -1 1:1t ^\ •,: -dip 'VA _ -',c.: nac';"a'<F, • EIm ury Q Parkway sidewalks along Garth Road and Wallisville Road will connect neighborhoods to nearby schools Major barrier crossing will be at Garth Road and IH-10 see Fore,' lid Win/ Congor trod Otpor4,otes u� Po,entio Long Ion tool Opoas,rite 00o Proposed Pommy Soewolo at Eil limts Naps(ChGmaels Cc. .. Gfy of Baytown Pots Non-n'y Parts • pal Courses ■ saooO Creeks!Srreorra ■ Pooaalon Parkway sidewalks along Main Street will connect neighborhoods to nearby schools and continue to East Harris County Soccer Complex Major barrier crossing will be at Main Street and IH-10 • • • • • • Legend Easing Troia ... Proposed Tsai 7ecomreeoobM ..• Po/real UANy Caw lrod Opporix tes ... Pore riot tong term Trod °coortxfes oao Noosed fairer Sawa; ctyleiNs / Ell Urals lansltnaneers Cash times ® City of Swam Pas vomoty Ports . Octl douses III Schools C•eees,Shears oocolor . 6arsisVo!e' EsoonNooi. Trails and paddling trails proposed along Cedar Bayou Potential trails along gas line easements will be difficult to construct but are still considered opportunities •••P'+„poseC'rod Re[orrlT9naTVf1 • • • Pofentio Wily Comas frol Op000_" ••• Po enfio long Term troll 0ea'�' ▪ Efl limits HolisiCeMtNS Ca: I/ iT'i J ufy of Baytown Pots j� vomoy Parts ■ Go! Cana ■ SUooe ▪ GeetsJ5' earn ■ PaoOPlan ■ Baysiwmer ■ EMPAbbl Potential trails along gas line easements will be difficult to construct but are still considered opportunities • • • • • • • • • 0 0 • • • i • • • • • • • • Potential trails along gas line easements will be difficult to construct but are still considered opportunities Burnet Bay Crystal Bay Legend 400'.asfing TWA •.a >roposecl ligi,Recornmeldotions ... >denld Utah Garrido, Tr Oaperttlities ..• >cfenlid long iem ird Oppert ties 'nosed Prot.oy sitle.ratn ▪ ChUmAs 8J lmA rmslCwrpen:Qush lrriA ] COa eavtorr Fats ] Norrrily>va ▪ Golf Cci es 111 Schc s Creeu/Strecns . Roolpon . iaysrwate ▪ Saran Nati Scott Bay Parkway sidewalk is proposed along Bayway Dr. to connect neighborhoods to the Baytown Nature Center Mitchell Bay Potential trail along drainage corridor connecting schools, parks, and the existing spine trail Potential trails along gas line easements will be difficult to construct but are still considered opportunities Goose Creek Country Club Continuing the Goose Creek Trail is a high priority see rocosed Sral Recarrherdaschs see Polenlci Candor Srai Opportunities ETJ L6.3 ••• FaiSICI,Crntert COtrty Lfnilf Cia of Porflown Pala J • • • Ploadro rats Goll Cosies Schools treetsiShetra 9occloac • krysiWatef •ExxOnMObil ow arks nd Rec eati n aste Plan w oo Prdpcsed "rol Reccmrrendcrans w pm PO*did;AO Co iOp frill Oop3Mities see Poteulid :asp km try Oppatkofes aaa Proposed P flway Sde.dks vn-oy Ports aGel Cases ▪ Sdsocl Creetsgtream . Fooddcr ▪ Baysfircter . EOmnldob, Potential Rails to Trails opportunity along the railroad corridor Trails and paddling trails are proposed along Cedar Bayou Parkway sidewalks are proposed along Ward Road and surrounding streets to connect nearby parks 0 BAYITOWN d 1405 I Vol Legend #0,Ecsrc^g r•os NS Proposed fro Recomerdoliors see Potent o Utity Cmoor Trod Oppmuniles •eo PCdent of long term hod Oppamei ies 009 Proposec Pc iwm Se;e.oro 111 Cty imis - E', lints — Por¢rChamoe's Coma' -'i cl BOylo«r Poo Li Non -city °oro ■ GOB Cones ■ Schcoh ▪ Ceea(ieeOms . RoodpOin . Bon/voter ▪ EmorMood Long term opportunity for a potential Rails to Trails along the existing railroad corridor o®oaO© oofl.r D. o� 0 a0 0 Long term potential trail along the 1405 0 irrigation canal to connect to Beach City 0 O 0 0 0 a 0 Potential trails along gas line easements Q. O O will be difficult to construct but are still 0 00 considered opportunities _ 0 0 Proposed Trail Opportunities 0 (21 0601 01311 PLATE C -4 • • • • Potential trails along railroad corridors will connect several key destinations Eupag Irate •*. Proposed trd bcamnerWo'bn ■.. PorenW Vary Caddo( Poi Oppcdundies ... PorenW 1pmg term Tsai Opp dandies ass Proposed Psrtray Sierrats • aryu.ts ,/ E11 limits Nar'sICharters County Pres Cry a eayasn Pots j] Needy Pasts ▪ Gd Courses ■ Schools ® Crests/Strews ■ tom 111 layylr ar ■ EaoNAod Neft Construction of a bay front promenade is a high priority recommendation Ba. town Re eTti• Maste Ell Wets eeee HarreiChartes Cooler orrds C te of Boyars Pots eico-oty Pah • • 111 Gal' Courses Scbols • Cleetuirrecres Flcoctrar ▪ ernsioaler • Eurerkrobi Parkway sidewalks are proposed to connect nearby parks Trails and paddling trails are proposed along Cedar Bayou IE'vergreen Poinf Golf Course A parkway sidewalk is proposed along Tri City Beach Road to connect residents to the bay front 41 41 41 • • • • • • • - • • • • • . • • i n O 0• O 0 �� O 17 00 0 �� p O 1::; 0 51 ` ♦ Long term potential for trails along the existing railroad corridors as these rail lines are still active Trails and paddling trails are proposed along Cedar Bayou Legend Ole esw vroposea Icy Ge,or me^Aations owe PoiensdunryComm iraiC an.i*es .M PoMnlal Lang tern Ird Opportunities U.. Praposrro Parhay LOMaIa • City iris a En Lints NanslClae e5 Coady Lirs jCity aI ealt3W11 Pats UNon -city Pa ks . Gat Canes • xnwb Creeks/Shears ■ ■ Easastiobl Long term trail opportunities exist in the far eastern portion of the City along Tri City Beach Road and irrigation canals Legend • test%'fait ••. Proposed trot ReCaonenoptom ... Potential JP ley Cantor 'Pail Gpacrlastes .•. Potential .ag torn 'al Om:reuM4es a oo Proposed Pommy Sidewalks d Cry Grnts / EU Gaits - icrns/Chanters Covey arts J City of Eorlosyn Pats u ^loo-dty Pots . GOA Causes ▪ SCooch Creeks/Steoms . Pbocplon . boys/Wotet • fcomMotil Trails and paddling trails are proposed along Cedar Bayou ... Forenia Oily Candor ir3l OppalNvtes . •. Potent) lap lam 'rai Oppalvdes ' on-cly Pats . Ge Courses 111 Scrooa �e Creets(Sneans ▪ Ficodokr . BaysTheer ▪ EvorMcD1 t. Long term trail opportunities exist along Tri City Beach Road 40. Existing hails •Sr. Proposed had Reccrr ,a• a: NO Potentioi LAIN Comov Gal Oppadtnfes raga Potentior Long term trot Op(idk:Mes 0o Proposed Partway Wends . City Lirils / ELI Limits •Wiis/Charnom Cosatily 0s aaty of Aaytmen Ports rxamciry Ports . Got Cowes ▪ Scrolls ��. Creets1Shea s . Eloaaplpn . &TtSlWaer ▪ EuaonModl