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Resolution - 2022-R0452 - Approving Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces Master Plan
Resolution No. 2022-RO452 Item No. 5.8 November 1, 2022 RESOLUTION BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LUBBOCK: THAT the City Council hereby approves and adopts the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan ("Master Plan") as recommended by the City of Lubbock Parks and Recreation Advisory Board on October 24, 2022, with such Master Plan becoming effective upon the approval of this resolution. Said Master Plan is attached hereto and incorporated in this resolution as if fully set forth herein and shall be included in the minutes of the City Council. Passed by the City Council on November 1, 2022 T , MAYOR ATTEST: Rebe a Garza, City Secretky—) APPROVED AS TO CONTENT: l�►��Ul,�tt� Brooke Witcher, Assistant City Manager U ' C IT+h�117:T.177�]iU A Ryan Yooke, Assistant City Attorney ccdocs/RES. Adoption •- Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan 10.25.22 Resolution No. 2022-RO452 Minutes Parks and Recreation Board Meeting City of Lubbock Parks and Recreation October 24, 2022 Park Board Members Present: Chris Lonngren, Brent Hodges, Daniel Bunye, Margarita Olivarez, Bil Anderson, William Pasewark Park Board Members Absent: Jeff Lansdell, Gwen Titus Staff Present: Brooke Witcher, Assistant City Manager Colby VanGundy, Parks and Recreation Director Ben Perry, Parks and Recreation Assistant Director Sandra Vasquez, Management Assistant Kalee Robinson, Park Programming Coordinator Savannah Hogan, Administrative Assistant Item 1: Call to Order: • At 12:01 p.m., Chris Lonngren, called the meeting to Item 2: Citizen Comments - None Item 3: Approval of Minutes: • Daniel Bunye made a motion to approve the • Margarita Olivarez seconded the motion • Unanimous vote to pass with one correction 5. Work Session: • Brief overview of four adopt a. park appliegdons • Daniel Bunye made a motion for approval • Margarita Olivarez seconded the motion ..,-, • Unanimous vote to pass 4. Action Items: o11der of the September26, 2022 regular meeting with one correction Recreation Director �. • Discussed Master Plan. ilmeline • Going to City Council on: November 1, 2022 for consideration • Discussed how the Executive Summary will help with goal of plan • Resources, grants, and consultants -were also discussed • Brent Hodges made a motion to pass • Bil Anderson seconded the motion • Unanimous vote to pass Adiourn• With no further discussion, the meeting adjourned at 12:51 p.m. Attest, Sandra Vasquez, Management Assistant Chris Lonngren, Chair -14 ,, ► Nrpppp�� ` p � 77 V, Ab Ab ow ' M�g• stF�J rt x OArai yRn I, yy�u 4'7T `d 10 d S � a ,( d S � �w 3 September 29, 2022 Final Draft AU Poll- JVt%- t 71 %vt"l* ti•:A'i :;•��t. �ytilra� • ..G. v � ` �� .. _ ", •+ .� � ,�" •lam` it �' .��. ;,;,,k�'• ��;�_ � - .ram-- _ c. ./•_ f.AR '�� Xv Table of Contents Introduction...............................................................................................................................................................1.1 Purpose......................................................................................................................................................................1.1 WhyDo We Plan for Parks?.....................................................................................................................................1.2 Benefitsof Parks for a Community........................................................................................................................1.2 Sidebar, Playgrounds for the Elderly........................................................................................................................................1.3 Sidebar, STEAM Programming..................................................................................................................................................1.3 Trendsin Parks and Recreation.............................................................................................................................1.5 Background...............................................................................................................................................................1.7 Map 1.1: Lubbock Planning Service Area..........................................................................................................1.8 Parks and Recreation System in Lubbock...........................................................................................................1.10 RelevantPlans...........................................................................................................................................................1.12 Lubbock Parks and Recreation Department Accomplishments......................................................................1.14 Lubbock's Demographic Profile.............................................................................................................................1.15 Approach to Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan........................................................................1.21 StrategicPerspectives.............................................................................................................................................1.23 Goals...........................................................................................................................................................................1.23 Vision..........................................................................................................................................................................1.24 Introduction. A community's parks, open spaces, trails, and recreational facilities should fulfill the recreation and leisure needs of residents and visitors, thereby enhancing their quality of life. A municipal park system is a public good which provides several socio-economic benefits, including improved public health, economic development, and a better environment. Over the last several decades, to ensure the development of successful park systems, communities across the U.S. have developed parks, recreation, and open space master plans. Chapter 1, Introduction, of this Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan (hereinafter Master Plan) describes the purpose of the Master Plan, the importance of parks for a community, and the current national trends in parks and recreation. This chapter includes key findings and recommendations from recent community plans as well as a summary of the Parks and Recreation Department's (LPARD) accomplishments in the last 10 years. Further, Chapter 1 describes the planning service area for the Master Plan and the geography of Lubbock's park system, a community profile with key socio- economic indicators relevant to parks planning, and a psychographic analysis of Lubbock's diverse households. A key component of Chapter 1 is the approach to the Master Plan, which fulfills the Texas Parks and Wildlife Grant Program requirements as well as provides the LPARD with the guidance necessary to achieve accreditation through the Commission for Accreditation of Parks and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). Copper Rawlings Park Image Source: Halff 1.1 Purpose. The purpose of this Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan is to ensure that all interests - public, quasi -public, and private sector - are aligned when it comes to the development, programming, and provision of parkland, recreational facilities, and recreational programs for the citizens of Lubbock. This Master Plan outlines a series of strategies, actions, and initiatives the Parks and Recreation Department can undertake to improve the City of Lubbock's park system, with respect to: Why Do We Plan For Parks? Parks, open spaces, and trails should be considered as critical infrastructure for maintaining a healthy and thriving community, just like other public infrastructure, such as streets and utilities. Proactive and innovative planning for parks and open space ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy Lubbock's park system and accrue the benefits of outdoor recreation and enjoying Lubbock's natural environment. Zilker Park Kite Festival, Austin, Texas Source: Visit Austin, Bruce Lemons Source: Lubbock Avalanche Journal Benefits of Parks for a Community. Providing recreational opportunities are critical to attracting and retaining a community's residents and businesses. Cities that provide outdoor spaces for recreational and large civic events establish an identity that draws visitors and, as a result, increases economic vitality and financial resilience. Outdoor spaces are integral to a city's appeal and quality of life. Convenient access to outdoor spaces and parks is an important determinant for public health. Parks, trails, and recreational programming contribute to physical and mental fitness and the overall health of the community. A park system provides safe, attractive spaces that encourage physical activity, which in turn helps to reduce the risk of chronic health issues like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stress. Iconic parks serve as community identifiers and shape a city's cultural and social environment. Residents and visitors associate a well-known parkwith the surrounding natural landscape, built environment, and the community at large. Examples of iconic community parks include, Central Park in New York City, Millenium Park in Chicago, and Zilker Park in Austin. Lubbock's parks with their playa lakes and abundant grasslands, could also become community identifiers providing a sense of place and enhancing park visitors' appreciation of the ecological features of the landscape. Urban parks and open spaces provide not only recreational opportunities, but also serve a civic purpose by creating the physical and social space for cultural events and public squares. Parks are frequently used as community resource stations for volunteer events, to serve food to the public during the winter holiday season, or to be staging grounds for emergency responses, such as during the Covid-19 pandemic when park facilities have been utilized as vaccination and testing sites for the community. r 4 1.2 Case Study 1 Playgrounds for the Elderly In the United States, park use by the elderly is no more than 15 percent of all park users. As baby boomers age, increasing their park usage can help reduce overall healthcare costs. Increasing park use for the elderly through appropriately designed park amenities and playgrounds can have several mental and physical health benefits. To increase their park use, it is important to incorporate age -appropriate exercise equipment in senior playgrounds as well as have an age -appropriate park design that minimizes spectators around senior playgrounds, increases proximity to walking trails, and ensures easy access to public transportation and sidewalks. These design features can increase park use for the elderly by removing physical and psychological barriers that make them feel unwelcome in parks designed primarily for younger populations. Exercise equipmentforthe elderly Source: The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Case Study 2 STEAM Programming The Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center in Phoenix is a 7,850-square foot nature education center and 600-acre park with Sonoran riparian habitat used by more than 200 species of birds and other wildlife. Offering free admission for all, the Center hosts interactive exhibits, an interpretive loop trail, sixteen miles of trails, and a variety of STEAM - focused education programs for children, including bird walks, wildlife encounters, conservation workday volunteer opportunities, school field trips, and hands- on immersive elements. Homebuyers prefer homes close to parks, open space, and greenery. A study by Texas A&M professor John Crompton, PhD, established a direct relationship between a lot's location relative to a park and its property value. Crompton found that homes directly bordering a park were valued at a 20 percent premium; and that even up to 2,000 feet away from the park, the home's value continued to increase by up to five percent per lot. This finding indicates that communities can acquire a direct return on local investment in parks in the form of increased property value. �F'ematail�a ?T�sna e4'I�+ses*^a�Tra fsr�i `s$ =K. cl a" t7 �y..� ..Lel81HiY alwiii� :}l L� i ou iir� Source:NeariVap A forest canopy in a park can offset, or even reverse, the urban heat island effect, a term which refers to the temperature difference between an urban area and its surroundings due to human activity, by providing shade and removing carbon dioxide. Reductions in ambient temperature also reduces the demand for energy to cool buildings and helps reduce carbon and other greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. Cities around Texas are recognizing this contribution of "green infrastructure" to their economic bottom line. For example, the City of Garland now offers property owners a direct incentive to reduce the amount of impervious surface and increase trees and other vegetation on their site. This program is based upon an analysis and findings that it would require approximately $38 million in traditional drainage infrastructure to replace the stormwater management value of the Garland's existing urban forest canopy. 1.3 Scout troop watching a hawk and birding demonstration Source: National Audubon Society Parks play an important role in the development of children by providing experiential learning opportunities that complement Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) educational programs. The amount of time children spend outdoors has declined significantly over the past two generations. Youth involvement in outdoor recreation is essential to cultivate an early appreciation for the natural environment and commitment to physical fitness. According to the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA), clinical research has proven that outdoor recreation enhances children's growth and development, cognitive abilities, creativity, problem -solving skills, physical health, social relationships, and self-discipline; and can reduce their stress.' Sports tourism is a growing trend that many Texas communities, such as Midland and Texarkana, are significantly profiting from. Midland hosts various sports tournaments, including basketball, baseball, and golf tournaments at municipal sports facilities every year. The City of Pearland has recently developed a $10.1 million Shadow Creek Ranch Sports Complex to attract sports tournaments and further expand the $5.3 million in local tax revenues, which include sales tax and hotel occupancy taxes the City collected in 2019. The improvement of Lubbock's current sports complexes and the development of a new specialized sports facility can help attract tournaments and boost tourism -based economic development in the community. While soccer and baseball remain the mainstays of the City -sponsored and private sports programs available to Lubbock residents, two new sports have emerged as popular contenders in recent years: disc golf and pickleball. Pickleball, a modified version of tennis played with paddles rather than rackets has acquired the interest of many residents; and, in 2019, the Lubbock City Council approved eight new pickleball courts at the Burgess Rushing Tennis Center. • 1* Jacoby -Jarrett, Paula. (2018). Take it Outside: TIW Key to Engaging Young CF�Ildren With Nature. NRPA Parks and Recreation Magazine. Retrieved https://www.nrpa.org/ pa rks-recreation-magazine/2018/a pri I/take-it-outside-the-key-to-engaging-you ng- children -with -nature/. 4- . i r • • -Jj_ ,I I I ', ii, .. Thomas A. Mar j 4orts Complex Source: Visit Lubbock _ lF 1 � _� . - t. Trends in Parks and Recreation. Through developing and implementing a parks and recreation master plan, a community can respond to its needs and changing trends by protecting and improving existing parkland and facilities and improving quality -of - life aspects of the system. Based on information from the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA), the following are state and national trends in recreation which can be expected to influence the utilization of parks and recreational facilities in Texas communities in the upcoming years. Permanent Changes Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic The Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted the conventional methods of travel, recreation, and work. Alongside the pandemic's significant impact to policy and practices related to public health, much has changed regarding public spaces, urban design, travel and transit. In the upcoming years, there will be a renewed focus on neighborhoods, where people may now spend most of their workdays working from a home office. Neighborhood amenities, such as parks trails, may increasingly serve as walkable activity hubs where people find refuge from their indoor remote -work routine and seek interaction with the outside world. Technology's Impact and Smart Parks Technology will continue to affect how a park system and recreational program functions, interfaces with the public, is operated and maintained, and manages data. Park and recreation systems are embracing new technologies, such as robotic cleaning systems, self - maintained toilets, line -painting vehicles, autonomous mowing equipment and drones, and solar -powered cameras. Park visitors also expect quality Wi-Fi access in parks and appreciate access to charging stations and downloadable content such as augmented -reality walks, games and exhibits. Electronic ball wall in a smart park Source: Luskin School of Public Affairs, Yale Interactive Focus on Health Equity and Social Services One of the strongest emerging trends for 2021 is the focus on health and social equity. The pandemic has made clear the connection between health and well- being and meeting the social needs of communities as parks often support food distribution, administration for Covid-19 test sites and day & after school care for children of essential workers. In upcoming years, parks and recreational activities will continue to play a greater role in supporting mental health and well- being as access to parks and green spaces are integral to social interactions and recreation. This will likely lead to greater partnerships between public health departments, school systems, social service agencies, and parks departments to play a role in addressing social and racial equality and disparities. Residents pose with #YourCityYourParks Campaign signs made by Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department Source: City of Grand Rapids Volunteers at the Lubbock Memorial Arboretum Source: Lubbock Memorial Arboretum 1.5 Virtual Programs Thrive and eSports Surge Trending into 2021 and beyond are virtual competitions and team events. Electronic sports, or eSports, have grown in popularity as the pandemic has curtailed youth team sports activities. Park and recreation agencies have had success in adapting and innovating recreation programs to allow participants to maintain a safe distance, participate from home, or as part of a physically distanced team activity. Some examples from 2020 include running a virtual fishing tournament and disc golf competitions, with scores posted online. Electronic sports address an important need for youth, who have faced social isolation during school shutdowns and closure of sports complexes and will continue to play an important function in the years to come. American Windmill Museum near Mae Simmons Park Source: Visit Lubbock Parks as Renewable Energy Sources Parks are excellent opportunities to capitalize on wide open spaces for renewable energy generation. In 2019, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) partnered with Green Mountain Energy to install solar panels at Dinosaur Valley State Park, Estero Llano Grande State Park, and Eisenhower State Park.2 The three installations will provide 67 kilowatts of renewable energy and will be completely solar powered. In the future, more parks agencies will be utilizing their parks for generating renewable energy, for powering the park and the community at large. 2* Kra nsz, Michael. (2021). Grand Rapids Wants To Know How The City Can Improve Parks In New Instagram Photo Challenge. Retrieved from https://www.mlive.com/ n ews/gra nd-rapid s/2021 /05/gra nd-rap! ds-wa nts-to-know-how-the-city-ca n -i m p rove- parks-in-new-i nstagram-photo-challenge.html "Insta-worthy" Parks Many people use social media to communicate with their friends and family and share photos. Cities are increasingly utilizing social media to engage with park visitors, not just to inform the public on programs and events but also to engage their citizens on important planning efforts and agency decisions. City officials in Grand Rapids, Michigan, for example, have encouraged residents to share what they like about their neighborhood parks and what could be improved in a photo challenge sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department.5 This type of social media campaign leverages digital public engagement platforms to allow park administrators to engage residents in real-time, collect information, and quickly respond to resident concerns. An 'Art in the Parks' program involving children creating bluebird boxes at Martin Dies Jr. State Park near Jasper, Texas Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife The Annual Mayor's Marathon in Lubbock Source: Active.com U1� LOK Chapter = • Park Key / 01 : Andrews, Clifford Park 02: Aztlan Park Background. 0Azt :Berry P 04: Berry Park rk 05: Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center , Context: Planning Service Area and 06:Burns Park , Jurisdiction 07: Bulter Park 08: Carlisle Park 09 : Carter Park — As one of the largest cities in northwestern Texas, 10: Casey, David Park / � Lubbock is the count seat of Lubbock Count and Y Y 11 : Chapman, J.A. Park 12: Clapp, K.N. Park home to 257,882 residents. The city covers an area 13: Cooke, Alex & Verna Park of approximately 87,075 acres with an additional pp Y 15: Crow, Earl Park 15: Davies, Judge Walter Park 233,505 acres as Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) 16: Davis, A.B. Park (Map 1.1, Lubbock Planning Service Area). Lubbock's 17: Davis, , Col. George A. Jr. Park 18 : Dupree, George W. Park ETJ includes the suburban Cities of Buffalo Springs, 19: Duran, Dr. Armando Park New Deal, and Shallowater to its east, north, and 20 : Elmore, Leroy Park Ken151. 21: Furr, Ray -Pioneer Park northwest, respectively. The City of Lubbock serves 22: Gateway Plaza as the educational, economic, and cultural core 23: Guadalupe Park 24: Guy, Charles Park U-1 ee of the Lubbock Metropolitan Area which includes 25: Hamilton, Stumpy Park Lubbock, Crosby, and Lynn Counties and is home to 26: Higinbotham Park 27: Hinojosa Fields over 324,000 residents. The demographic analysis, 28: Hodges, Helen Park Erskine St. beginning on page 22, describes the different 29: Hoel, Phil Park Hollins Park • �I population sub -groups in Lubbock. 30: 31: Holly, Buddy& Maria Elena Park 32 : Holly, Buddy Recreation Center The Lubbock Parks and Recreation Department 33 : Hood, Mose Park 34: Huffman, Berl Athletic Center L EEE maintains approximately 3,471.5 acres of public 35: Huneke, Henry War Memorial Park 17 parkland, playas, trails, and special use areas. This 36: Jennings. Jan Park 37: Kastman Park 11 • includes neighborhood parks, community and 38: Lakewood Development Area 114 • regional parks, special use and civic parks, as well 39: Leftwich, M. Park 40 : Lewis, Jack Park - as athletic and aquatic facilities. Pages 19-21 detail 41 : Long, Buster Park . Tthe Lubbock Parks and Recreation Department 42: Lopez, Richard Park ' 43 : Lubbock Youth Sports Complex m accomplishments related to renovations and 44: Lusk, Willie Park - - additions made to the Lubbock park system over 45: Mackenzie Park m m 46: Maedgen, E. Park the past 10 years. Reviewing the parks, recreation, 47: Mahon, George Park FP and open space accomplishments allows the City to 48: Maxey Park evaluate the viability of previously proposed projects 49: McAlister, Bill Park 50: McCrummen Park and whether action goals from the 2011 Parks Master 51 : McCullough, B. Park Plan are still relevant today. 52: Meadowbrook Golf Course 53 : Miller, Bill & Ann Park 41 54: MLKComplex 55 : Neugebauer, Randy Park - 56: Overton, M.C. Park 57: Pallotine Park 58 : Ratliff, Park 257 8 8 2 59 : Rawlings, Copper Park , 60: Reagan, Naomi Park 61 : Remington Park e residents (2020Census) 62: Ribble, O.W. Park 63: Rodgers Park �- 64: Sedberry, Will Park 65 : Simmons, Mae Park . 66: Sims, Gladys Park : Smith, Preston Park 320 O 68: Stevens, Jack Parky58 � 69 : Strong, Jack & Mary Nell Park 70: Stubbs Park 71:TmCol race acres of planning area (citylimits+EfJ) ork 72: Tim Cole Memorial Park 73: Underwood Park • 74: Wagner Park 75: Washington Park-� 7: Wheelock Park 3 47 2 77: Whisperwood Median IFL ■ 78 : Woods, George Park 79 : Conscluistador Lake 81 : Llano Estacado Lake acres of public parkland 81 : Comancheria Lake/ Canyon Rim 82 : Dunbar Historical Lake 1.7 — �r I — — — I LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, — AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN Drewst. Client: City of Lubbock ConsuLtants: HaLff Associates, Inc. rJ a D i Data Sources: City of Lubbock. Texas Keuka St. LEGEND • . 0 Lubbock City Limits t • + 4 + [ _ ] Lubbock ETJ �l Interstates • n State Roads Zg„ • • Principal Arterial Roads — Regis St. + Major Collector Streets - Minor Arterial Streets - e"`S` Minor Collector Streets �SY. LJ Ln. r - Local Roads 34 1 r Rail lines 2a9 - • Parks • 9 a P,. 1 Water Bodies \o- School and University-ErskineSt. owned property r — c8 5 7 n 1 f 83 • - 78 x F4L6 0 23 - 45 - 4th _— - 21= waY Dr — E. 4th St. - - � eroadwa St 22 — dv 64 19th` 56 i 31 19tn 9 -- -74 o2 a 4sD o n 8 3 ' i, ��I 4 V J 110 . • 4 a4th - 7013 4 ❑ az"d 76 0 590 n 3 50th D m 581E _ - eem 5 ,} - 289 *-C- UT l • -14 ♦' • 1 ' 1 114 h • O n 71+ 1— 130th 146m - 1 mlLe 2 mile 3 mile 4 mile D f T Woodrow Rd. L 87 MAP 1.1: • - -�I ® LUBBOCK PLANNING SERVICE AREA ® September 2022 194ih Geography and Landscape of Lubbock Parks Lubbock's park system is defined by the topography, climate, and natural features of the Llano Estacado which is marked by arid and semi -arid conditions, a flat terrain, and soils comprised of sand, silt, and clay. The area is fed by the Ogallala Aquifer and the regions soil is capped by'Caliche' or sedimentary rock, which helps create the playa lakes. Playa lakes are freshwater ponds fed by rainfall and are a distinct feature of the Lubbock region as well as the City's park system. The unique playa lakes, the South Plains flora, fauna, and expansive grasslands define the City's parks and open spaces. The Texas Parks and Wildlife's Llano Estacado Loop and Birding Trail crosses through the wooded savanna and thickets of Mackenzie Park offering birders unique views of White -breasted Nuthatch, Swamp and Fox Sparrows, a variety of migrant ducks, and native waterfowl. The deciduous trees in the park are also home to migrating warblers and native songbirds. While not inside the City boundary, Buffalo Springs Lake is a significant natural amenity in the Lubbock region attracting birders and providing winter habitat to Ring -billed Gull and ducks such as Common Goldeneye and Northern Shoveler. The Lubbock Lake National Historic Landmark is an archaeologically rich site that offers glimpses into ancient human life as well as present-day wildlife such as Ferruginous, Sharp -shinned and Red-tailed Hawks, and American Kestrel. Maxey Park, Jack Stevens Park, Clapp Park, and the Canyon Lakes are all important nature sites with an abundance of water features and unique playa lakes and examples of community attractions that embody Lubbock's iconic landscape. Playa Lake Vegetation in Lubbock Ring -Billed Gull Fox Sparrow Source: Houston Audubon Source: All About Birds A Playa lake with low water level at Qharles A. Guy Pa4k Source: Halff Associates _ 4 r To Usually Above Water Usually Below Water Source: Halff Associates it • i lis l/ 1 Parks and Recreation System in Lubbock. Parks and Recreation Department Organization The Lubbock Parks and Recreation Department operates and maintains the City's parks, community centers, aquatic facilities, and sports facilities, under the supervision of the Director. The Department's mission is to provide a quality system of parks, facilities, and cultural and leisure programs that meet citizens' needs. To fulfill this mission and to ensure successful operation of the City's park system, the organizational structure of the Parks and Recreation Department includes four sections or divisions: Park Maintenance, Park Development, Indoor Recreation, and Outdoor Recreation. Parks and Recreation Department provides the following services for Lubbock's citizens: • Maintains and improves the park system and rights -of - way, including trash and litter pickup, mowing, edging, and trimming; installation of plant materials; repair of equipment and structures; irrigation installation; and repair. • Develops, administers, and monitors accessible recreational, cultural, and educational programs for people of all ages. • Promotes and supervises junior, adult, and senior tennis programs at the Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center. • Plans, publicizes, and manages open recreation programming and private group programming at four municipal swimming pools. • Manages the City of Lubbock Cemetery and the Sam Wahl Recreation Area at Lake Alan Henry. Parks and Recreation Advisory Board The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) is comprised of nine community members appointed by the City Council for a two-year term. Five of the board appointments are from technical fields, such as civil engineering, design and applied arts, parks and recreation management, horticulture, and landscape architecture, as well as technical fields appropriate for the Canyon Lakes development and the operations of a cemetery. The PRAB provides recommendations to City Council on operations, maintenance, and development of parks and cemeteries in the city. Full -Time Equivalent Staff 37472 Acres of Public Parkland 83 Parks 30 Sports Courts 50 Sports Fields 37+ Miles of Park Trails 6 Community and Senior Centers 90+ Recreational Programs Dunbar Lake Image Source: Halff Associates Partners and Stakeholders The Lubbock Parks and Recreation system is supported by a variety of community organizations. The following organizations are vital to the community's quality of life by providing parks, open space, sports leagues, and various community activities. • Urban Forestry and Green Spaces Organizations • Lubbock ISD • Frenship ISD • Lubbock -Cooper ISD • Youth and Adult Sports Leagues • West Texas Home Builders Association • Texas Tech University, Department of Landscape Architecture Lubbock ISD's Lowrey Field Source: Lubbock Avalanche Journal Lubbock Sports Labor Day Cup 2020 at Berl Huffman Athletic Complex Source: Visit Lubbock Youth and Adult Sports Leagues The City of Lubbock has partnered with several youth and adult sports leagues to provide sports programs for Lubbock residents. Through this partnership the City maintains the electrical and plumbing infrastructure; provides topsoil annually and mows weekly; and collects solid waste twice every week in the City -owned sports complexes, while a majority of leagues maintain the fields, concession stands, restrooms, and scoreboards. Currently, there are 15 youth and adult sports leagues which have a formal agreement with the City of Lubbock forthe use of sports facilities in the City's park system. These sports leagues include little leagues and youth baseball; softball and girls fastpitch; adult baseball; soccer; and cricket. West Texas Home Builders Association The West Texas Home Builders Association (WTH BA) is a trade association affiliated with the National Association of Home Builders and the Texas Association of Builders and represents a 24-county region which includes Lubbock. It is comprised of approximately 650 member companies representing builders, suppliers, and subcontractors in the home construction industry. The WTHBA is an important stakeholder in the development of third party -owned parks in new residential subdivisions in Lubbock. Texas Tech University, Department of Landscape Architecture The Department of Landscape Architecture in Texas Tech University (TTU) offers an accredited landscape architecture program for undergraduate and graduate students seeking professional degrees in landscape architecture. The Department of Landscape Architecture (DOLA) has frequently partnered with LPARD to advance parks planning and development in Lubbock through geo-spatial research and analysis. Lubbock ISD's Pete Ragus Aquatic Center Source: Visit Lubbock Relevant Plans. The City of Lubbock and its partners have produced several plans and studies related to parks, transportation, and community planning which can inform this Master Plan's strategies and recommendations. This section summarizes the key goals, strategies, and the specific application of findings from previous plans and studies and how they may inform this Master Plan. The 2011 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan provides an assessment of the then current park system as well as the parks and recreation needs of Lubbock residents. The plan lays out a set of development priorities for the park system to guide parks staff and city officials. Major Thoroughfare Plan / 2018 Transportation Master Plan pnmmn The Major Thoroughfare Plan / 2018 Transportation Master Plan provides a comprehensive inventory of every thoroughfare in Lubbock, which includes 3,700 individual roadway segments. The Major Thoroughfare Plan / 2018 Transportation Master Plan identifies and updates lane configurations (number and type of lanes, including bike lanes and shared lanes), lane widths, and status (completed, partial, or future roads) of roadway segments; and recommends strategies that help create a right -sized thoroughfare system with safety and funding considerations. Recommendation for greenbelt connection parft CITY PARK Developed by the City of Lubbock and the North & East Lubbock Community Development Corporation (NELCDC), the North and East Lubbock Master Development Plan was adopted by City Council in 2004 to provide a framework for the community's future development. In general, the Master Development Plan prioritizes enhancements within the University Avenue and Avenue U rights -of -way; new commercial development nearthe Texas Tech University campus; creating pedestrian and trail connections in the areas in and around Overton neighborhood; and creating a linear green corridor along the Canyon Lakes. IRSKIIEST a�os I ,ERSKINEST s ,� M _ y.. LoLations� A. � identified Ss 'T a• 'High JJrio@ty' I�oao� law Sponsored by the Lubbock Metropolitan Planning Organization, the 2019 Walk and Bike Lubbock Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan examines the existing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure in Lubbock and establishes a plan for developing integrated bicycle and pedestrian facilities. This plan details key destinations in Lubbock, including major employers, schools, parks, greenways, retail centers, and commercial centers; the street network; crash statistics; and the quality of the existing pedestrian network. The 2019 Walk and Bike Lubbock Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan provides a comprehensive toolbox with innovative bicycle and pedestrian facilities to select the appropriate design standards and specifications for the construction of future facilities. rJ 1.12 The Master Drainage Plan (MDP) was completed in 2019 and is accompanied by updates to Lubbock's Drainage Criteria Manual (DCM). Importantly, the DCM defines and classifies playas into non -overflow and overflow playas and lays out the development requirements for the surrounding areas. The MDP has updated development criteria for the detention and retention of stormwater as well as floodplain and floodway development requirements. The MDP has also identified locations along thoroughfares which have additional drainage requirements. Neighborhood Development and Parks Graphics from Plan Lubbock 2040 These graphics from Plan Lubbock 2040 are recommendations related to park development. The neighborhood graphic below depicts the importance of parks within neighborhoods and the benefit to combining park and school properties, where appropriate. The graphic to the right depicts the primary role of playas for drainage and the secondary role for recreation. Major Arterial Mixed Use I pisyd� Neighborhood ■ Center Low Density Residential I Neigbho Low Density hood Residential Center JL /, ' Low Density Low Density Di Residential Residential /v �o I L€igedium Neighborhood Density Cen[er I Residsidential IN Source: City of Lubbock 2040 Comprehensive Plan 1.13 Locations, including service areas, identified 41- F- L • In Plan Lubbock 2040 as potential sites for r _ future park development ! `;• •Alllh L i i is ----------------------------- ----------------- --------------- J i The Plan Lubbock 2040 Comprehensive Plan, adopted by Lubbock City Council in 2018, examines community issues, ranging from the need for improved infrastructure, increased employment opportunities, and improved community aesthetics, to downtown revitalization and growth management in the west and south of Lubbock. The plan formulates community goals and lays out action items to achieve those goals. Significant long-term goals laid -out in the plan that relate to parks include: • Developing a master plan for Canyon Lakes that helps link east and west Lubbock • Partnering with local school districts to share operational and maintenance costs for parkland and recreational facilities • Leveraging Lubbock's numerous playa lakes as sites for new parks when a lake's location, topography, size, and condition make it a feasible park site for the City • Developing and adopting a Parkland Dedication Ordinance • Creating a city-wide Trail Plan with the goal of connecting places and neighborhoods Priority of Developmen Drainage Criteria Park Criteria Recreated by: Halff Associates )urce: City of Lubbock 2040 iprehensive Plan Lubbock Parks and Recreation Department Accomplishments. A full summary of Lubbock PAR accomplishments since the 2011 Parks Master Plan can be found in Appendix X. `*L061y012 spent on park maintenance in 2022 $4,,685v 926 spent on park maintenance from 2016-2022 $337Y-112 of capital outlay started/or completed in 2022 $�,s09,661 spent on professional services and training $2yO99y267 increase in the parks department budget from 2016-2022 Walking trail at Higginbotham Park Source: Lubbock Avalanche Journal R AREA McAlister Dog Park groundbreaking ceremony Source: Daily Toreador, Ryan McCullar Official opening of the Dream Court at Duran Park Source: Texas Tech Athletics BASKETBALL COURT.' New walking path and pedestrian access at Leftwich Park Source: City of Lubbock 1.14 Lubbock's Demographic Profile. This section details Lubbock's population growth and composition, employment and key household characteristics and provides an initial understanding of the needs of Lubbock's residents for parks and recreational facilities and services. A demographic analysis of the community is critical in creating a successful parks and recreation plan that reflects community needs and engenders community support. The primary source of the demographic data is the U.S. Census Bureau, 2015-2019 American Community Survey 5-year estimates. Age Lubbock residents are young with a median age of 29.6 years (refer to Figure 1.2, Median Age). While there is a sizeable population of college -age residents, with approximately 40,000 students enrolled at Texas Tech University (TTU), over one -quarter of Lubbock's residents are between the ages of 25 and 44, and over 28 percent of the population is comprised of young children and teens below the age of 19. Approximately 12 percent of Lubbock's residents are 65 years or older. An accurate description of the age breakdown for Lubbock residents can help the City better plan for recreational facilities, parks and open spaces based on the needs of residents in various stages of life and with varying lifestyles. According to TPUs 2020 Park Score ranking, 59 percent of Lubbock's residents who are over 65 years are within a 10-minute walking distance to a park, as illustrated in Figure 1.3,10-Minute Walk Distance to Park by Age. For adults between 20 and 64 years, that number falls somewhat to 56 percent. 54 percent of the children less than 19 years are within a 10-miute walk of a park. This indicates that a little less than half the residents in all age groups in Lubbock are living more than one-half mile from a park. Population Growth Lubbock, one of the largest urban centers in West Texas, has experienced a 12 percent growth in its population in the past decade (2010 - 2020). It's current population, 253,851, is estimated to grow at a rate of 22 percent between 2020 and 2040 to reach approximately 378,940 in 2040, according to population forecasts by the Texas Water Development Board and Lubbock Metropolitan Planning Organization (refer to Figure 1.1, Population Projection). Figure 1.1, Population Projection Projected 2040 Population LubbocWs population is expected to grow 345000 by 34 percent between 2020 and 2040 , 360,000 320,000 280,000 240,000 200,000 160,000 120,000 Lubbock's population ; grew by 12 percent between' 80,000 — 2010 and 2019 40,000 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040 U.S. Census —Lubbock MPO — Texas Water —Average Board Figure 1.2, Median Age Figure 1.3,10- Minute Walk Distance to Park by Age According to the Trust for Public Land's 2020 Park Score City of Lubbock 29.6 0 C. 19 and younger 01 N 54% 10-Minute Walk • ages exlasr' 20-64 34.6 % 56% 10-Minute Walk r� United Stat&S _' 65 and older 38.1 10-Minute Walk 1.15 Population Within Walking Distance to Parks The walking distance to parks is a measure of the level of service parks provide to the residents of a community. Typically, the higher the number of residents in a one- half -mile radius of a neighborhood park, the better the park's level of service. The Trust for Public Land's (TPL) ParkServeTM platform takes into account the walkability to parks and provides data on parks' location and the surrounding population for communities around the country (Figure 1.4, ParkServeTM Analysis of Access to Parks in Lubbock). The platform helps communities determine the need and location of parks in under - served neighborhoods and juxtaposes this need with the expected growth in the population. For Lubbock, 55.6 percent of the residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park. This is slightly above the national average of 54 percent. ■ I Figure 1.4, ParkServeTM Analysis of Access to Parks in Lubbock I _ Park Location 10 Minute Walking Distance _ Very High Priority High Priority I Moderate Priority I I I I I I II I _ I I . I I I I I I I I I I Y I I I I WIU Ala olm xIJ I 6� 4 I I I I 55.6% (149,155) Of residents are within a 10-minute walk of a park 44.4 % (113,106) Residents are outside of a 10-minute walk Total Population Analyzed: 256,261 Lubbck- - — -— — - Pieswn imith Int'I Airport Hillcres[ Goff and Country Club Sl�eiott' R-1, Hills GullA. [ Taxas Tech ■ Uniuersi ,,k CL bb ■ - 4::. y r m �� � I ■ T � i w. �■ ol'th La� ■ `� f .1 y Uountrr, .c=: Club 3315 R J 1.16 Generation Z 28% 6.7% Pre-K (Under 5) 13% K-8 (5-14 Years) Teen 8•7% (15-19 Years) (1988-2002) Millennials (1968-1987) Generation X 21% (1948-1967) Baby Boomers 16% (1920's-1947) Silent Generation Age Groups Generation Z (Pre-K to 19 years old) 28.3 percent of Total Lubbock Population Over two-thirds of this age group is expected to engage in high calorie sports and fitness activities. High calorie sports include individual sports (boxing, skating, martial arts); team sports (basketball, soccer, baseball); racquet sports (badminton, tennis, squash); and outdoor sports (jogging, bicycling, hiking). Examples of fitness activities are barre, dance and yoga. Mllennials (20 years to 34 years) 29.2 percent of Total Lubbock Population Over half of this age group is expected to participate in some form of high calorie activity. While members of this generation engage in a diverse set of sport and fitness activities, they restrain from core engagement such as team sports and group activities. In the next 12 months, this group is expected to engage more in running, jogging, hiking, and cardio fitness. Generation X (35 years to 54 years) 21 percent of Total Lubbock Population Even though over a third of this group engages in high calorie sports and fitness activities, the number of inactive people has increased the most compared to all other age groups. Possible explanations for the increase in inactivity are the work and family responsibilities for this demographic. In the next 12 months, this group is expected to engage more in hiking, yoga, fishing, camping, and fitness activities, including cardio and weights. Baby Boomers (55 years to 74 years) 16.4 percent of Total Lubbock Population This age group is expected to focus on low impact, minimal calorie burning activities, such as walking for fitness and golf. Previously, the 65 years and over population showed the largest gain in inactivity; but in the next 12 months, this group is expected to engage more in hiking, and working out with weights and using machines. The Silent Generation (75 years and older) 5.2 percent of Total Lubbock Population This age group is expected to focus on low impact, minimal calorie burning activities, such as walking for fitness and golf. The 65 years and over population shows the largest gain in inactivity. 1.17 Race and Ethnicity Over half of Lubbock's population (52 percent) is White, not Hispanic. The second largest race demographic is Hispanic or Latino, at 36.1 percent. This is followed by the African American, non -Hispanic population at seven percent. The Asian, non -Hispanic population is two percent of Lubbock's population (Figure 1.5, Race and Ethnicity). Understanding the racial composition of a community is important when creating a parks and recreational plan that is based on the diverse needs of the community. Research suggests that there can be racial and ethnic variations in how people access and use parks as well as their physical activities. Needs and priorities may also differ. Some groups may prioritize connectivity of open spaces, while others may emphasize safety. As illustrated in Figure 1.6, Race / Ethnicity by Distance to a Park, 60 percent of the non - Hispanic African -Americans population as well as Hispanic or Latino population are within a 10-minute walk of a park. Figure 1.6, Race / Ethnicity by Distance to A Park According to the Trust for Public Land's 2020 Park Score Figure 1.5, Race and Ethnicity Hispanic or Latin X Asain alone, not F BIaCk or African runencdn alone, not Hispanic White alone, not Hispanic Hispanic or White alone / Black or Asian alone Other Latino not Hispanic African not Hispanic of any race American not Hispanic 4)N1 60% 1 52% A60% 1 49% 1 53% 10-Minute Walk 10-Minute Walk 10-Minute Walk 10-Minute Walk 10-Minute Walk Education and Employment Figure1.7, Education High School Graduate 24.8% In Lubbock, 86.5 percent of the population 25 years and High School above has a high school degree or higher and 31.5 percent Graduate or Higher Some College, No Degree 24.2% have a bachelor's degree or higher, as illustrated in Figure Bachelor's Degree 1.7, Education. Furthermore, 50 percent of the civilian or Higher Associate's Degree 6.Or population 16 years and older is employed, and one -fifth of the residents (20.1 percent) live below the poverty level. Table 1.1, Occupation and Earnings Owing in part to the presence of TTU, 37 percent of the labor force in Lubbock is employed in the higher -paying whiteMedian collar occupations of management, business, science, and Occupation EmployedEarnings arts (refer to Table 1.1, Occupation and Earnings in Lubbock). Management, business, 37% $60,111 One -fifth of Lubbock's labor force is employed in service- science, and arts related jobs; and 23 percent are in sales and office jobs, and Service 20% $20,605 have lower median earnings compared to the employment Sales and Office 23% $ 31,628 sectors in the city, ranging between $20,000 and $31,000 annually. Natural resources, 9% $39,095 construction, and maintenance Understanding the primary occupations for workers in a community is important to plan parks, open spaces and Production, transportation, 12% $31,493 and material moving recreational activities that are reflective of the needs of the community. Understanding the working hours, leisure time, Overall, the median household income for the 95,479 and household earnings aids the design and implementation households in Lubbock is $50,453. This is below the median of appropriate park and recreational activities for residents. household income for Texas, at $61,874. Figure 1.8, Employment by Industry describes the percent of labor force in Lubbock employed in each industry. 1.18 Figure 1.8, Employment by Industry Public Administration Other Services, except Public Administration Art, Entertatinment, Recreation, Accomodation and Food Services Educational Services, Health Care and Social Assistance Professional, Scientific, Management, Administrative and Waste Management Services Finance, Insurance, Real Estate and Leasing Information Transportation, Warehousing and Utilities Retail Trade Wholesale Trade Manufacturing Construction Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, Hunting and Mining Geographic Mobility and Housing 12% 13, 20,000 25,000 30,000 35,000 5,000 10,000 "'. Labor force, residency, and housing tenure data suggests that Lubbock has a high population turnover, owing to the transient student population at TTU; although there is also a stable resident population that lives and works in the city. The Inflow/Outflow Analysis (refer to Figure 1.9, Inflow/Outflow Analysis) by the U.S. Census, Longitudinal Employer -Household Dynamic illustrates the labor force movement in Lubbock. The dark green arrow pointing to the city shows the number of workers that are employed in Lubbock but live outside the city. The light green arrow shows the number of residents in Lubbock that are employed outside the city. As illustrated in Figure 1.9, 39 percent of the workers employed in jobs in Lubbock work in the city but live outside it, while 26 percent of the workers in the city live in Lubbock but are employed outside the city. The largest percentage of Lubbock's workers (61 percent) live and work in the city. While Lubbock also serves as a labor force destination for the surrounding communities, it has a sizeable stable resident population that lives and is employed in the city. 11111111 40,000 Figure 1.9, Inflow and Outflow Analysis U Employed in Lubbock, Live in Lubbock Employed in Lub- 8310920 bock, Live Outside a Employed Outs! 53,738 4%k Live in Lu oc 3 3a 2 ,498 of A little over half (51.2 percent) of the city's households are Figure 1.10, Households in Lubbock owner -occupied, while 48.8 percent are renters (refer to Figure 1.10, Households in Lubbock and Figure 1.11, Housing Units in 95,479 100% Structure). The city's median home value, at $140,800, is lower TOTAL HOUSEHOLDS than Texas's median home value of $172,500, and the city's 56,740 59% median gross rent, at $955, is lower than Texas's, which is $1,045. Family Households These employment and housing characteristics are important 38 739 , Non -Family Households 40% considerations in designing parks and recreational facilities that 29,633 31 meet the long-term needs of residents and can cater to anticipated g p Households with Children residential, commercial, and industrial growth in the city. 2.54 9 Average Household Size Figure 1.11, Housing Units in Structure 3.16vvivai Average Family Size 1 1 106,785 Total Housing Units O 2 3-4 Detached Attached �� •� 51.2%dio Owner Occupied 73% 4% 4% 5% 5% 8% 11% 2% .00l% 48.8% Renter -Occupied e, 1.19 No Text Approach to Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan. The Lubbock Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan is composed of six sections; each of which is focused on a particular aspect of Lubbock's park system. The following summary of specific Master Plan sections is meant to provide additional clarity to understanding the process of formulating the City's Parks Master Plan. The Master Plan's second section, Parks, provides a snapshot of existing conditions, and includes 1) a demand -based assessment, based on resident and stakeholder input to determine actual and anticipated park system use, including sports and athletic fields, aquatics, and indoor recreational facilities; 2) a standards -based assessment, with regard to level of service (distribution of parks, facilities, and recreational programs) to qualify need; 3) an operations -based assessment to determine the budgetary, operating, and maintenance needs of the Parks and Recreation Department to provide an optimal mix of facilities and services to community members within resource (capital, other) thresholds; 4) a condition -based assessment to identify the need for improvements to City -owned parks and facilities in Lubbock; and 5) a resource -based assessment, which considers unique or prominent physical features and natural resources, and pre-existing local or regional initiatives, that may be leveraged to provide enhanced recreational opportunities. Dunbar Historical Lake Park The third section, Sports and Athletic Facilities, provides an overview of the athletic facilities available to meet the practice, game, and tournament needs of Lubbock's sports community and efforts to more actively host and participate in regional sports tourism. The Plan's fourth section, Aquatic Facilities and Indoor Recreation, examines the condition and geographic distribution of facilities and performs a comparative analysis of indoor recreational programs provided by similar communities; with the intention of ensuring that Lubbock is providing year-round recreational activities for its residents. The fifth section, Lubbock Lakes, will examine how the City's system of six lakes, proposed Lake No. 7, the Sam Wahl Recreation Area, and the vast open space resources therein, can be more fully programmed and activated to fulfill the demand for new, "adventure sports" and activities, including mountain biking, trail running, water sports (canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding). Secondary trail connections and trailheads will provide greater connectivity from adjacent neighborhoods and schools, which can utilize the Canyon Lakes for enhanced academic and recreational activities. The sixth section, Implementation, will provide an Implementation Action Plan, regarding the prioritization of Master Plan strategies and recommendations. The Implementation Action Plan OAP), will also categorize Plan recommendations in terms of ongoing, short-term (1-3 years), mid-term (3-10 years), and long-term (10+years) strategies and actions. The Implementation Action Plan will also include order -of -magnitude costs associated with prioritized strategies and actions; all of which can be incorporated into the City of Lubbock's Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Canyon Lakes Area Source: HalffAssociates I\ The planning approach to Lubbock's Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan has been crafted through the lens of CAPRA's accreditation and standards. Standards for national accreditation provide an authoritative assessment tool for parks and recreation agencies. Through compliance with these national standards of excellence, CAPRA accreditation assures policy makers, department staff, the general public, and taxpayers that an accredited parks and recreation agency has been independently evaluated against established benchmarks as delivering a high level of quality with respect to park facilities. The approach to this Master Plan ensures that the relevant guidance for achieving CAPRA accreditation, including understanding the accreditation process and standards, is highlighted and easily identified within the Master Plan. The planning approach adopted for this Master Plan will ensure that the requirements for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Grant Program are fully met and the Master Plan is prepared in accordance with the Local Park Grant Programs Manual (July 2011). At a minimum, all master plans and/or updates must meet the requirements below for approval: • Once plans are complete, the applicable governing body (city council, county commissioner's court, district or authority board) must pass a formal resolution (or ordinance) adopting the plan and list of prioritized needs. • Plans must be comprehensive and include the sponsor's entire area of jurisdiction. • Plans must address the present and future needs of the community or area. • Plans must cover at least a ten-year period. Plans must be updated every five years to remain eligible. • Plan Contents: — Introduction (demographic and socioeconomic data; projected population data; and role of the city). — Goals and Objectives — Planning Process — Area and Facility Concepts and Standards — Inventory of Areas and Facilities — Needs Assessment and Identification — Plan Implementation and Prioritization of Needs — Associated Maps, Illustrations and Surveys It is important to note, a master plan is not required to participate in the grant program, nor does the TPWD approval of a plan guarantee that points will be awarded for any project. 1.22 LBK Chapter1, Introduction GOAL 1 An EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION of parks, facilities, and open space resources that serves the recreational needs of a diverse and active citizenry. Facilities which enable the provision of a DIVERSE RANGE of indoor recreational programs and activities and engender a sense of community. • . -V The CANYON LAKES is a regional destination for adventure in the heart of the Llano Estacado. GOAL 2 SPORTS AND ATHLETIC FACILITIES that meet the practice, game, and tournament objectives of a growing community. GOAL 4 Excellent AQUATIC FACILITIES address the demand for water - based recreation among Lubbock's residents. Setting the standard of excellence and leadership in parks OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE. WL ;; Vision. A high -quality park system that has achieved a balance between preserving ecological function while enhancing the City's built environment with beautiful urban green spaces that enrich the lives of its citizens and visitors alike. Amidst large swaths of pastoral beauty Lubbock's parks are endowed with facilities that serve the recreational interests of a healthy and energized public. The City's diverse economy benefits from the numerous sports leagues and associated spectators who come to Lubbock to participate and compete in statewide and regional tournaments utilizing the City's well -maintained athletic fields and complexes. The City's Canyon Lakes system of parks and open spaces celebrate and interpret the landscape of the Llano Estacado and a heritage of over 13,000 years of human settlement and occupation. Lubbock is recognized as a city of parks ... A City within a Park. f i 1 " Mae Simons Park .'Source! alffA 51ciatesr 0. Table of Contents Introduction...............................................................................................................................................................2.1 Purpose......................................................................................................................................................................2.1 Goal 1.0: A network of beautiful and well -maintained parks, facilities, and open space resources serve the recreational needs of a diverse citizenry...................2.2 Parks and Recreation Classifications and Standards........................................................................................2.3 Figure2.1, Park Classifications........................................................................................................................................2.3 Facilityand Equipment Standards.........................................................................................................................2.4 Table2.1, Park Facility Standards..................................................................................................................................2.4 ParkProgramming....................................................................................................................................................2.5 Table2.2, Park Space Programming............................................................................................................................2.5 Programming for Diverse Users.............................................................................................................................2.6 ExistingPublic Parks and Facilities.......................................................................................................................2.7 Table 2.3, Number of Existing Parks in Lubbock.......................................................................................................2.7 Map 2.1, City of Lubbock Parks by Classification...........................................................................................................2.8 Table 2.4, Existing Park Trails in Lubbock....................................................................................................................2.10 Table 2.5, Outdoor Recreation and Events Programming......................................................................................2.12 Table2.6, Safety City Participation................................................................................................................................2.12 Table 2.7, Santa Land Participation...............................................................................................................................2.12 Table 2.8, Pumpkin Trail Participation...........................................................................................................................2.12 Administration........................................................................................................................................................... 2.13 NeedsAssessment...................................................................................................................................................2.14 Demand -Based Assessment..................................................................................................................................2.17 Standards -Based Assessment...............................................................................................................................2.27 Figure 2.2, Benchmark Communities Parkland LOS Comparison.......................................................................2.28 Table 2.9, Current Level of Service in Lubbock (2020)............................................................................................2.28 Table 2.10, Current and Future Level of Service in Lubbock 2022 and 2032.....................................................2.28 Map2.2, Parks Service Area.................................................................................................................................................2.30 Objective 1.1: Ensure an equitable distribution of connected and accessible parks, facilities, and open spaces throughout the community.......................................................................................................................2.31 Operations -Based Assessment............................................................................................................................2.33 Table 2.11, Regional Comparison Community Summary.........................................................................................2.34 OperatingExpenditure Metrics..............................................................................................................................2.35 Table 2.12, Operating Budget Changes, 2017-2021....................................................................................................2.35 Figure 2.3, Operating Budget Per Acre Managed for Regional Comparison Communities ..........................2.36 Figure 2.4, Operating Budget Per Capita for Regional Comparison Communities.........................................2.37 Table 2.13, Parks and Recreation Department Revenue Summary.....................................................................2.37 Figure 2.5, Revenue Per Capita for Regional Comparsion Communities..........................................................2.38 Figure 2.6, Cost Recovery for Regional Comparison Communities....................................................................2.38 Figure 2.7, Full-time Equivalent Positions for Regional Comparison Communities........................................2.39 Figure 2.8, Figure 2.7, Full-time Equivalent Positions for Regional Comparison Communities ...................2.39 Figure 2.8, Figure 2.7, Full-time Equivalent Positions for Regional Comparison Communities ...................2.39 Objective 1.2: Improve the ecological function and environmental character of Lubbock's parks ............2.41 Figure2.10, Typical Playa Anatomy...............................................................................................................................2.42 Figure 2.11, Playa Restoration Program........................................................................................................................2.44 Figure 2.12, Micro -detention Technique.......................................................................................................................2.46 Figure 2.13, Higginbotham Park Proposed Landscape Enhancement Program..............................................2.50 Conditions -Based Assessment..............................................................................................................................2.51 Figure2.14, Scoring Methodology...................................................................................................................................2.51 Table 2.13, Parks Conditions Assessment....................................................................................................................2.52 Objective 1.3: Enhance maintenance practices to ensure a network of high -quality parks and recreational facilities.....................................................................................................2.65 Table 2.14, Floor Area for Maintenance and Storage Facilities...............................................................................2.71 Figure 2.15, Operations and Maintenance Facilities..................................................................................................2.72 Objective 1.4: Enhance visitor experience through expanded parks programming......................................2.73 Sidebar, McAlister Park Summary......................................................................................................................................2.76 Resource -Based Assessment................................................................................................................................2.79 Objective 1.5: Utilize third -party resources to optimize Lubbock's system of parks and recreational facilities............................................................................................................................2.79 NaturalFeatures.......................................................................................................................................................2.80 BuiltFeatures............................................................................................................................................................2.81 Sidebar, Houston's Bayou Greenways Initiative.............................................................................................................2.83 Map 2.3, Houston's Bayou Greenways Initiative............................................................................................................2.86 Sidebar, SPARK School Park Program.............................................................................................................................2.73 Summaryof Findings...............................................................................................................................................2.95 No Text Introduction Chapter 2, Lubbock's Parks, lays out a system of classifications and standards for parks, park facilities and park equipment in Lubbock. Chapter 2 includes a detailed inventory of Lubbock's parks and recreational facilities and provides a snapshot of the outdoor recreational programming administered by the City of Lubbock's Parks and Recreation Department (LPARD). Further, this chapter provides an overview of existing conditions of Lubbock's parks by describing the distribution of parkland and open spaces. This detailed account of the existing conditions of the City's parks and recreational programs establishes the groundwork for determining the system's needs, based on the needs of its users, the citizens of Lubbock. Purpose While there does not exist a predetermined definition of an urban park to aid in describing its location, development, and management, there exist commonly accepted criteria which help identify and characterize a place as a park, including public accessibility; inclusivity; having identifiable edges or boundaries; open space which contributes to overall community aesthetics; and space which provides a gathering place for the community. A classification system by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) provides an understanding of the various types of parks, open spaces, and recreation areas. The classification system is based on guidelines published in 1996 that are generally accepted as `industry' standards today. While the classification system is a practical and standardized tool to help determine a park's service area and the community members it serves, it is important to recognize that every community is unique and may require a diverse selection of parks, open spaces, and recreational areas to cater to its specific needs. Across the country, jurisdictions have utilized the NRPA's guidelines and statistics to create park and recreation systems to meet unique sets of goals, including improving public health, bolstering economic development, promoting arts and culture, and catering to the recreational needs of a community's residents. Lubbock's park system is comprised of parkland, park facilities and amenities, recreational programming, and events. Park facilities and amenities include sports fields and courts, sports equipment, swimming pools, community centers, mountain biking trails, and other passive recreation amenities like park trails, fishing piers, and pavilions. Recreational programs and events include athletic activities offered by the LPARD, such as volleyball, basketball, yoga classes, and swimming lessons. The Department also organizes public events during various holidays, such as the Pumpkin Trail and Santa Land. Goal 1.0: A network of beautiful and well -maintained parks, facilities, and open space resources serve the recreational needs of a diverse citizenry. - Introduction Lubbock's system of parks consists of over 3,472 acres of parkland, comprising approximately four percent of the total land area within the City limits. Parks are found throughout Lubbock and provide respite for residents to gather, relax, and recreate. As Lubbock continues to grow and parkland is added, an increased focus on developing, high quality and attractive park spaces should be emphasized. A series of objectives, strategies, and actions are recommended to achieve this goal. Analysis and recommendations are made to improve access and connectivity to and between parks by way of bicycle lanes, shared -use paths, and utility / drainage corridors. Opportunities to improve playa vegetation, flood mitigation, and stormwater management are presented through utilizing micro -detention techniques and culvert diversion modifications. Park amenity improvements such as boardwalks, programming, interactive elements, public art, and play equipment are presented. Improvements and recommendations regarding the LPARD's operations and maintenance are presented to improve park upkeep, replacement, and management. Lastly, a conditions analysis of City parks was conducted which identifies quality and safety concerns found at each park and provides the basis for a comprehensive asset management program for LPARD resources. Existing Conditions Parks and Recreation System in Lubbock Park Character, Function, and Size Lubbock's park system, as summarized on page 2.3, has seven categories of park classifications serving different needs of the community. The majority of Lubbock's parks are large neighborhood or community parks, although prominent multi -acre regional parks do exist within the City. There is currently a limited number of civic parks, linear parks, and greenways / trails, which can constrain pedestrian and recreational connectivity. In addition, there are special use sports facilities / complexes in Lubbock which cater to game and tournament field sports (rectangular and diamond), and sports courts. Lubbock's park system also features many unique amenities including pavilions, dog parks, skate parks, community centers, swimming pools, an arboretum, and a children's educational street -safety complex (Safety City in Clapp Park). Playas and Stormwater Collection As Lubbock continues to grow and expand, once rural playa lakes become surrounded by development. Playa lakes are typically the lowest elevation in the surrounding area and serve as a critical location for aquifer recharge and flood management (See Landscape Character, in Chapter 5, Lubbock's Lakes, beginning on page 5.5). Due to playa lakes' low elevations, location within the 100- year floodplain, and shallow slopes, Lubbock has limited the development that can occur close to a playa lake. In the majority of instances a playa lake is surrounded by public parkland and a road which runs around the park's perimeter. In many neighborhoods, the road and associated perpendicular streets provide the main catch and divert stormwater runoff which flows directly to the playa and park. As water collects in the adjacent streets, a series of concrete channels and curb cuts transmit the stormwater through the park to the playa (refer to Figure 2.10, Typical Playa Anatomy, on page 2.42). Open Space and Urban Forest Canopy Over half of Lubbock's parkland consists of unprogrammed grassland and open space. As will be discussed, this could provide opportunities to provide more "natural" spaces, which could reduce costly mowing and maintenance activities. With the exception of older neighborhoods in central Lubbock, parkland typically has a higher concentration of trees compared to the surrounding landscape. Areas within the Canyon Lakes have significant tree canopy which helps to reduce the urban heat island effect on surrounding land uses, reduce irrigation needs, and makes parks more comfortable and safer for users. With the looming specter of climate change and predicted rising temperatures and longer durations of drought, it will be important for the LPARD to develop a comprehensive vegetation management plan to improve the City's urban forest canopy. The LPARD also maintains the Sam Wahl Recreation Area, a regional campground, marina, and park located at Lake Alan Henry, which is approximately 60 miles south of Lubbock, and provides natural open space and water -based recreation (refer to Chapter 5, Lubbock's Lakes). Parks and Recreation Classifications and Standards Depicted below in Figure 2.1, Park Classifications, Lubbock's parkland can be classified within seven broad park classifications. Each classification may consist of several types of parks, each of which may include various types of recreational facilities. These classifications include regional parks, community parks, neighborhood parks, sports facilities, civic parks, special use parks, and linear parks or greenways. Figure 2.1, Park Classifications Regional C.)eCvice gred Park Size: Typically more than Use and Facilities: Frequently planned to Parks Park Size 100 acres accommodate large numbers of visitors for ■ Service Area: Up to a 50-mile events such as fairs, festivals, concerts, and radius, depending on site exhibitions and provide a variety of programmatic features. activities; intended to serve tourists, neighboring municipalities, and local residents. Community Park Size: Between 10 and 50 Parks acres. ■ Service Area: Serves populations within a one to two- mile radius, with community -wide facilities Neighborhood Park Size: Typically three to10 Pa rks acres Service Area: Adjacent = residential areas within a one - quarter to one-half mile, or ten minute "walkshed" Sports Park Size: Varies based on the Facilities number of sports fields and ■ courts Service Area: Regional and Local Civic Parks Park Size: Varies based on park use and location, typically follows a small urban form Service Area: Local Special Use Park Size: Less than 10 acres to Parks several thousand acres ■ Service Area: Local and Regional Linear Parks Park Size: Varies based on or Greenways corridor and existing urban form I Service Area: Typically a one to two mile radius, with access points every 1/4 to 1.2 mile; often serves city-wide populations 2.3 Use and Facilities: Provides open spaces and natural areas for unstructured recreation, as well as facilities, such as athletic fields, sports courts, swimming pools, hike and bike trails, picnic pavilions, and exercise stations for structured recreational activities; intended to serve City residents Use and Facilities: Provide active and passive recreational opportunities within walking distance of neighborhoods; ideal destinations for families; common amenities include playground equipment, picnic areas, benches, walking trails, open play areas, and, occasionally, a sports court or athletic field. Use and Facilities: Include fields, courts, and pools so that leagues can congregate at one facility for competitive play; may also incorporate indoor facilities including gymnasia and recreation centers; intended to serve traveling teams and local leagues. Use and Facilities: Principally reserved for public gathering, civic events, and community conversations; these parks include greens, squares, boulevards, plazas, and serve as focal points for community gatherings and social interaction. Use and Facilities: Reserved for unique recreational activities or specialized interests; this can include athletic complexes, swimming pools or aquatic centers, skate parks, shooting ranges, dog parks, golf courses, and natural, open space areas. Use and Facilities: Generally a multi -use trail or park that follows a natural or constructed corridor such as a creek, an abandoned railroad right-of-way, drainage corridors or a utility easement; developed to facilitate pedestrian and bicycle travel, animal migration, and/or create linkages with other parks, neighborhoods, civic buildings, or community destinations. Park Facility and Equipment Standards Table 2.1, Park Facility Standards Facility and Equipment Standards ' NRPA standards for parks, open spaces, and greenways Outdoor Facility % of l,omparisalso provide general facility space and development Ty ' ' Agencies ' standards that generally help identify the types and Playgrounds 95 4,936 - - quantities of facilities and equipment desired for each Basketball Courts 86 8,870 - - park classification. Planning for park facilities and Diamond Fields: amenities in accordance to NRPA guidelines provides a Baseball - Youth 79 14,429 15,307 10,000 minimum standard for considering whether community parks and facilities provide an adequate level of Tennis Courts I 78 7,264 9,995 16,500 service for all community members. NRPA facility and Rectangular Fields: 68 12,505 - - equipment standards also help determine the criteria for Multi -purpose minimum acceptable facilities for both urban and rural Dog Parks I 67 75,805 - - communities; including land requirements for various Diamond Fields: 65 27,418 14,595 20,000 kinds of park and recreation areas and facilities; the Softball -Adult basis for relating recreational needs to spatial analysis Diamond Fields: 62 25,456 19,861 12,000 within a community -wide system of parks and open Softball -Youth space areas; structuring elements that can be used to 69,051 57,000 Swimming Pools 53 65,000 guide and assist regional park development; and means Community Gardens 51 66,341 - - through which to justify the need for parks and open Rectangular Fields: space within the overall land -use patterns of a region or Soccer Field - Youth 50 12,761 12,244 5,000 community. Multi -use Courts: Basketball, Volleyball 48 35,167 - - Table 2.1, Park Facility Standards, indicates the Tot Lots 45 - recommended minimum indoor and outdoor facility and 19,978 _ equipment improvements for neighborhood, community, 19,530 12,244 Rectangular Fields: Soccer Field -Adult 44 5,000 and special use parks. This table summarizes NRPA facility standards, the quantities of facilities utilized by Skate Parks 39 103,438 - - other comparable communities in West Texas (refer to 51,169 73,395 Rectangular Fields: 35 100,000 page 2.34 for a listing of Comparison Communities), Football Field and the standards utilized by the City of Lubbock, 107,267 - Regulation 18-hole 29 _ as applicable; to provide a baseline for comparable Golf Course development within the City of Lubbock's parks. ....... a. -....a 26 48,898 - - Stations While each park and open space area is unique in terms 22 54,050 - Multi -purpose - of size, orientation, ingress and egress, neighboring Synthetic Fields - land uses, topography, and current anticipated use, Ice Rinks 18 102,007 - - the NRPA facility and equipment guidelines provide a 16,500 point of departure for programmatically considering the Pickleball Courts 18 30,502 10,871 Indoor Facility - minimum goals to be achieved in park and recreation area development and improvement. Furthermore, since Recreation Centers and Gyms 64 51,265 60,000 262,000 park and recreational facility use fluctuates by season and by the type of user, the recommended standards Community Centers 60 55,136 50,000 52,000 may require adjustment to meet the needs of the users 65,000 for each park and recreation facility. Guidelines and Senior Centers 41 120,062 96,000 Performance standards should also be considered for playground 36 Ampitheaters 111,226 design, equipment maintenance, safety, and injury Nature Centers 31 - prevention. 119,206 - Aquatics Centers 25 65,000 A thorough analysis of park facilities should also apply 107,415 57,000 142,900 - Stadiums 17 - the results of various types of needs assessments in 152,714 - Teen Centers 14 - conjunction with community -specific considerations, Indoor Ice Rinks 12 - such as population density, demographic composition, 102,085 _ area topography, and the community's development Arenas 7 108,105 - - 2.4 vision. Park Programming While park classifications and standards provide appropriate guidelines regarding parkland distribution and level of service, they provide little information regarding how a park should be programmed to serve different functions and users. The term, park programming, refers to the continual process of planning, implementing, and evaluating leisure experiences for users of parks and recreation spaces. Essentially, park programming ensures that a community's parks fulfill the recreational and open space needs of its users. Effective park programming responds to the community's needs and expectations and increases park and recreation space usage. Park programming can be permanent when programs or activities take place in recreation centers located in parks; or when sports leagues organize around and use the athletic facilities in parks. It can also be temporary or sporadic, such as an arts performance tour of the public parks, or a two -week basketball camp. Park programs are often provided by the parks and recreation departments as well as through private and non-profit partners. Recreational Needs Programming Recreational space supports a range of activities from informal play to formal active competition or sports. Recreational space may incorporate formal amenities such as playscapes, sports courts and athletic fields, pools, skate parks, and other facilities. It can also include facilities for casual recreational activities, such as canoe/kayak launches, disc golf, fishing piers, multi- use trails, and spray pads. Social Space Programming Social spaces serve as places for public gatherings in formal or informal settings. Social spaces, such as squares, plazas, and greenways may be civic in nature. The scale of some social space facilities, such as amphitheaters, arenas, and stadia may facilitate large- scale, community -wide activities. Other social spaces support informal social interaction (e.g., picnicking and seating areas, community gardens, memorials). Natural Space Programming Natural spaces emphasize resource conservation (e.g., floodplain planning, stormwater drainage, mature tree canopy, wetland protection), habitat preservation, or wildland restoration. Natural areas may serve as outdoor `classrooms' and support low -impact, passive recreation activities (e.g., bird watching, hiking, biking). Facility development is minimized in natural areas. Unprogrammed Park Space Unprogrammed open spaces in existing parks and on undeveloped public land provide opportunities for flexible, informal outdoor activity for the community. Unprogrammed open space is multi -use and allows park visitors to play spontaneously or utilize the outdoors for resting, eating, or reading. These flexible spaces can also be placeholders for future parkland development and programming if a community anticipates demographic change and an increase in outdoor recreation needs. Table 2.2, Park Space Programming by Park Classification, identifies the park programming categories appropriate for each park classification. Table 2.2, Park Space Programming by Park Classification Regional Parks Community Parks Neighborhood Parks Sports Facilities Civic Parks X X X X X X X X J� X X X J� X X J� X Special Use Parks X X Linear Parks or Greenways X X 2.5 Programming for Diverse Users Parks are beneficial in unique ways to people of different age groups. For children, outdoor play opportunities in parks and nature -rich activities have a positive impact on mental and physical development. For youth and adults, parks provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, sports, and leisure time which translate to physical and mental health benefits. Similarly, for older adults, regular leisure and passive recreation in outdoor spaces can reduce stress levels, promote better sleep, and help bolster the immune system. However, analysis by the Trust for Public Land indicates that over 60 percent of the local park facilities across the country are comprised of playgrounds, tennis courts, and ball grounds. Most park facilities in local communities cater to the younger age groups even when over 15 percent of the population is 65 years or older. In order to cater to aging baby boomers as well as children and young adults, parks programming should be dynamic with a wide range of available programs, events, and activities that are inclusive, accessible, and welcoming to people of all ages and interests. For example, diverse parks programs would balance large- scale events like concerts, festivals, and marathons, with smaller group -activities such as yoga classes, dance nights, and book clubs. Activities may be seasonal or year-round but there should be a variety of programs throughout the day. This is helpful in catering to a variety of interests as people visit park facilities at different times of the day. The public engagement facilitated in conjunction with the development of this Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan will help to illuminate the usage of park spaces and users' interests; and can help inform parks programming which will engage a diverse range of people. Park design should complement programming such that it encourages dynamic use and activity and is inclusive of various ages as well as special needs. Park spaces should have comfortable seating, informative signage, clean and safe restrooms, functioning drinking fountains, and covered irrigation valve boxes. The play equipment should support physical activities for people of various ages, interests, and abilities. Trails, paths, and open spaces should be appropriately designed to cater to wheelchairs and strollers. Similarly, dedicated areas for fitness activities, exercise equipment, and swimming pools should have design elements which welcome and encourage safe use by older adults as well as populations with special needs. Natural open space at Dunbar Historical Lake Source: City of Lubbock First Friday Art Trail at The Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences Source: Lubbock Economic Development Alliance Movies In The Park at Mae Simmons Community Center Source: City of Lubbock W Existing Public Parks, Facilities, and Open Space Creating a system -wide inventory of park facilities and recreation programs is a critical component of the park planning process. This section provides a comprehensive inventory of Lubbock's parks, recreation facilities, and recreation programs, including those owned, maintained, or sponsored by the City of Lubbock and other quasi -public and private entities. It further details the number and distribution of park properties and participation in recreation programs. A thorough inventory of parks system assets is important to understand the needs and preferences of Lubbock's residents and quantify the effort and cost for system- wide operations and maintenance. As detailed in Table 2.3, Number of Existing Parks in Lubbock, the City of Lubbock manages 83 parks, which include three regional parks,19 community parks, 46 neighborhood parks, four sports facilities, three civic parks, six special use parks, and two linear parks. The Parks and Recreation Department also owns two undeveloped or unprogrammed open space areas. In total, there are 3,481.5 acres of parkland in Lubbock, of which 10 acres are undeveloped. Map 2.1, City of Lubbock Parks by Classification, illustrates the location of all parks and recreational facilities within Lubbock. All of Lubbock's parks have amenities and facilities that enhance their use and functionality, such as facilities for active, passive, and aquatic recreation. Table 2.13, Park Conditions Assessment, on page 2.52, provides a detailed account of the existing amenities and facilities in Lubbock's parks. Playground at Wagner Park Source: Halff Associates Leroy Elmer Park Source: HalffAssoclates Table 2.3, Number of Existing Parks in Lubbock Regional Parks 3 762.0 Community Parks 19 624.1 Neighborhood Parks 46 307.9 Sports Facilities 4 301.8 Civic Parks 3 1.9 Special Use Parks 6 1,469.8 ' Linear Parks or iiiiimlmi�� 2 4.0 .. Undeveloped / 2 10.0 Unprogrammed Open Space Picnic Area at Stubbs Park 2.7 Source: HalffAssociates Park Key 01 : Andrews, Clifford Park 02 : Aztlan Park 03 : Aztlan Park Link 04 : Berry Park 05 : Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center 06 : Burns Park 07 : Bulter Park / 08 : Carlisle Park / 09 : Carter Park / 10 : Casey, David Park 11 : Chatman, J.A. Park 12 : Clapp, K.N. Park 13 : Cooke, Alex & Verna Park / 14: Crow, Earl Park 15 : Davies, Judge Walter Park _J 16 : Davis, A.B. Park 17 : Davis, LT. Col. George A. Jr. Park 18 : Dupree, George W. Park 19 : Duran, Dr. Armando Park i 20 : Elmore, Leroy Park i 21 : Furr, Ray -Pioneer Park 22 : Gateway Plaza 23 : Guadalupe Park 24 : Guy, Charles Park 25 : Hamilton, Stumpy Park 26 : Higinbotham Park 27: Hinojosa Fields 28 : Hodges, Helen Park 29 : Hoel, Phil Park 30 : Hollins Park 31 : Holly, Buddy & Maria Elena Park 32 : Holly, Buddy Recreation Center 33 : Hood, Mose Park 34 : Huffman, Berl Athletic Center 35 : Huneke, Henry War Memorial Park 36 : Jennings. Jan Park 37: Kastman Park 38 : Lakewood Development Area 'a • 39 : Leftwich, M. Park 40 : Lewis, Jack Park 41 : Long, Buster Park 42 : Lopez, Richard Park 43 : Lubbock Youth Sports Complex 44: Lusk, Willie Park - 45 : Mackenzie Park 46 : Maedgen, E. Park 47 : Mahon, George Park 48 : Maxey Park 49 : McAlister, Bill Park 50 : McCrummen Park 51 : McCullough, B. Park 52 : Meadowbrook Golf Course d - 53 : Miller, Bill & Ann Park s 54 : MILK Complex 55 : Neugebauer, Randy Park 56 : Overton, M.C. Park 57: Pallotine Park 58 : Ratliff, W. Park 17 R. 59 : Rawlings, Copper Park - - - - - - - - - - - - - I- H -I 60 : Reagan, Naomi Park 61 : Remington Park 62 : Ribble, O.W. Park 63 : Rodgers Park 64: Sedberry, Will Park 65 : Simmons, Mae Park 66 : Sims, Gladys Park 67: Smith, Preston Park 68 : Stevens, Jack Park 69 : Strong, Jack & Mary Nell Park 70 : Stubbs Park 71 : Tech Terrace Park 72 : Tim Cole Memorial Park 73: Underwood Park 74 : Wagner Park 75 : Washington Park 76 : Wheelock Park 77: Whisperwood Median 78 : Woods, George Park _ - - - - - _ 79 : Consquistador Lake 80 : Llano Estacado Lake 81 : Comancheria Lake/ Canyon Rim 82 : Dunbar Historical Lake 1 \ \ Ursul a St. Erskine St. z 0 n 0 LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN ` Client: City of Lubbock \ Consultants: HalffAssociates, Inc, a \ • \ Data Sources: City of Lubbock. Texas Drew St. 1294 LEGEND • Keuka St. Regional Park Community Park Neighborhood Park • -- - Sports Facility and Athletic Complex . Civic Park Special Use Park -� Linear Park or Greenway . Regis St. Unprogrammed Open Space PID Park Kent St. ? 0 Lubbock City Limits 15ru� Ln. - 'I_ j Lubbock ET1 Interstate 289 m • State Road 79 Principal Arterial Road QILI - 8 V. � ��,. Major Collector Street Q �ErskineSt. Minor Arterial Street 4 2 5 D 0 Minor Collector Street Local Road 4th •r St. Rail line Water Body <64 Public / Institutional x D3 I 191h �7 54 >9 a - 501h ai Oil - - - t r 1- 11 98th iWld I ' I r � ■ _ 11atn I � � I - - - - - - - - T 7 W 130ih 1 / 11- I I L 84 1 mile 2 3 0 1 inch = 8,333 feet i r MAP 2.1: CITY OF LUBBOCK + / / PARKS BY / CLASSIFICATION i September 2022 Park Trails There are close to 37 miles of existing park trails or perimeter trails located in 38 parks and open recreational spaces in the Lubbock parks system. In some parks, park trails encircle playa lakes, while in others they run along the perimeter of the park. These park trails are also present in the open spaces and linear corridors adjacent to Lake 1 / Conquistador Lake and Lake 6 / Dunbar Historical Lake in the Canyon Lakes system. Park trails aid in internal circulation and enhance the recreational value of Lubbock's parks. They provide opportunities for walking, running, biking, and othertypes of outdoor fitness and leisure activities. Most of the park trails in Lubbock are made of concrete though some trail segments are constructed with decomposed granite. The longest of these trails are in the parks and open spaces adjacent to the Canyon Lakes (refer to Table 2.4, Existing Park Trails in Lubbock), and provide opportunities for outdoor fitness and leisure activities in a waterfront setting. The park trail loop adjacent to Conquistador Lake in the Canyon Lakes system is the longest park trail in Lubbock. This concrete walking trail is approximately 4.5 miles long and runs along the northern edge of Conquistador Lake connecting Fiesta Plaza to the amenities south of the lake, which include unprogrammed open space, a plaza, a pavilion, and the Buddy Holly Recreation Area. The second -longest trail in the parks system is the 2.9-mile McAlister Park hike and bike trail, which loops around the playa lake in the park and offers recreational opportunities for pedestrians and cyclists. The third -longest park trail in the parks system is the 2.8-mile segment of the Canyon Lake Drive to the north and south of Dunbar Lake. It provides pedestrian access from M.L.K. Jr. Boulevard to the Dunbar Lake Dam by way of an on -street "walking lane" Trail loop and bridge near Hodges Park along Conquistador Lake Source: Halff Associates Martin Luther King, Jr. Mountain Bike Trails One of the prominent features of Lubbock's outdoor recreation offerings is the mountain biking trail network to the north of Dunbar Lake and Canyon Lake Drive stretching over 10 miles. This trail loop extends over rolling hills in the prairie area adjacent to the Dunbar Lake in the northwest and southeast direction between M.L.K. Jr. Boulevard and the Dunbar Lake Dam. The trail offers mountain bikers the opportunity to traverse several steep inclines, rocky downhill segments, and sharp turns in a landscape dotted with trees and shrubs. The Martin Luther King Jr. Mountain Bike Trail loop is maintained by the West Texas Cycling and Caprock Multi -Sport Club. Equestrian Trail Another unique feature in the Lubbock Parks system is the equestrian trail network in Mackenzie Park. Spread over a 38-acre area, the equestrian trail network is east of Mackenzie Park Lake, south of Parkway Drive and north of East Broadway Street. The landscape is flat with equestrian trails winding through wooded areas and shrub massings; and overlooks the Mackenzie Park Lake and its tributary. Martin Luther King, Jr. Mountain Bike Trails Source: Halff Associates 2.9 Table 2.4 Existing Park Trails in Lubbock: Aztlan/Mackenzie Link Aztlan Park Berry Park Buddy Holly Recreation Area & Fiesta Plaza Carlisle Park • Carrillo Family Recreation Area Chatman Park K.N. Clapp Park Conquistador Lake Cooke Park Davies Park 0 Davis Park Dunbar Historic Lake (a.) Dunbar Historic Lake (b.) Duran Park Guadalupe Park Guadalupe Strip Guy Park Stumpy Hamilton Park Higginbotham Park Hoel Park Jan Jennings Park Lakewood Area Leftwich Park Llano Estacado Lake Lopez Park McAlister Park McCullough Park Miller Park Neugebauer Park Pallottine Park Reagan Park Ribble Park Rodgers Park Sims Park Strong Park • Tech Terrace Park Underwood Park Wagner Park * DGA = Decomposed Granite 0.5 0.2 0.4 1.8 0.3 0.4 0.2 0.3 2.7 0.3 0.4 0.4 2.8 walking trail 9.6 bike trail 0.4 0.1 0.3 0.7 0.6 0.7 0.5 1.0 0.7 0.6 0.6 0.4 2.9 0.8 1.5 0.2 0.1 0.3 0.6 0.3 0.35 0.4 0.6 0.4 0.5 36.2 IR Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete DGA* Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete Rodges Park walking trail Source: HalffAssociates Concrete Concrete DGA Concrete DGA Concrete Concrete Concrete DGA Concrete DGA Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete Concrete DGA Concrete Concrete Martin Luther King Junior Mountain Bike Trails Source: City of Lubbock 2.10 Open Spaces and Unprogrammed Areas Besides the parks, sports facilities, and community centers constituting Lubbock's parks system, there are natural open spaces and unprogrammed areas maintained by LPARD that are included in the outdoor recreational opportunities available to Lubbock residents and visitors. These include the Canyon Lakes, Lake Alan Henry, and the Sam Wahl Recreational Area. Canyon Lakes Extending for approximately eight miles from the Berl Huffman Athletic Complex in northwest Lubbock to the Dunbar -Manhattan Heights in eastern Lubbock, the Canyon Lakes system is a unique asset of the parks system showcasing the City's unique topology, wildlife, and landscape. It is comprised of six lakes, ranging in size from 18 acres to 75 acres. The adjacent land uses include open park space, commercial retail, industrial, and residential. The Canyon Lakes traverse through Mae Simmons Park, Mackenzie Park, Aztlan Park, and Helen Hodges Park. The open spaces around Lake 1 / Conquistador Lake in the northwest of the system and Lake 2 / Llano Estacado Lake in the central area of the Canyon Lakes system are programmed for passive recreational opportunities including fishing, walking, and picnicking. Approximately 140 acres of land adjacent to Lake 6 / Dunbar Historical Lake in the eastern section of the Canyon Lakes system consists of single and double track mountain biking trails offering natural downhill and dirt jumping terrain. The Buddy Holly Recreational Area and Fiesta Plaza, adjacent to Lake 1 / Conquistador Lake, and the Carrillo Family Recreation Area, adjacent to Lake 3 / Comancheria Lake, constitute additional open, unprogrammed spaces with prime waterfront views. Within the Canyon Lakes system, open spaces adjacent to Lake 6 to the north, the area between North Avenue Q and Interstate 27 surrounding Lake 5, and over 40 acres of land west of Windmill Center, between East Broadway and East 19th Streets consist of undeveloped waterfront property. Mackenzie Park along Mackenzie Park Lake Source: Visit Lubbock Lake Alan Henry Lake Alan Henry is located almost 65 miles to the south of Lubbock on the Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos River. Managed (not owned) by the City of Lubbock's Public Works Department, the lake covers around 3,000 acres of land and has over 55 miles of shoreline. At full operational levels, the lake has an average depth of 40 feet, and the water level fluctuates between two and four feet per year. From 1991-1993, the City of Lubbock, in cooperation with the Brazos River Authority, built the John T. Montford Dam to provide a future drinking water supply for the City of Lubbock. The Dam impounds water in the South Fork of the Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos River, thereby creating Lake Alan Henry. The LPARD manages and maintains the Sam Wahl Recreational Area, a 580-acre area to the north of Lake Alan Henry. The Sam Wahl Recreational Area offers several water -based recreational opportunities in the Rolling Plains Region of Texas and serves as a regional destination for fishing and nature enthusiasts. Currently, the recreation area offers permits for boating, hunting, fishing, and camping, and is open to the public 24 hours a day. As described in Chapter 5 on page 5.79, the Sam Wahl Recreation Area has 33 campsites with concrete pads and picnic tables (of which 23 campsites have electricity and water connections), hiking trails, public bathrooms with pay showers, and 200 parking spaces. Lake Alan Henry fisheries are rated among the top five in the State of Texas and have several types of fish, including largemouth bass, white crappie, smallmouth bass, and channel catfish. For more information regarding Lake Alan Henry, refer to pages 5.79 - 5.88 in Chapter 5, Lubbock's Lakes. Lake Alan Henry Source: LakeAlanHenryProperties 2.11 Outdoor Programs and Events Besides the extensive indoor recreation and events programming held at Lubbock's community centers, the Parks and Recreation Department offers outdoor programs and events at Clapp Park, Mackenzie Park and Safety City, as described in Table 2.5, City of Lubbock Outdoor Recreation and Events Programming. Safety City Adjacent to K.N. Clapp Park, Safety City is a unique town for children where buildings, streets, and bridges are designed in accordance to the size of school -age children. Managed and maintained by the Parks and Recreation Department, Safety City offers safety lessons for pedestrian, bicycle, and traffic safety. Other programs include seat belt education, on -site fairs in collaboration with area hospitals and safety organizations for health and public safety education. Table 2.6, Safety City Participation, describes the cumulative participation in Safety City events and programs for the past five years. Special events at Safety City include: • Field trips and tours of the facility for children of various ages to learn about car, bicycle, and pedestrian safety • Safety City Health and Safety Festival, held annually for families and children of all ages, includes booths, games, and activities hosted in partnership with local health and fitness organizations • Trick -or -Treat Street, which includes trick -or -treat activities forfamilies while practicing good traffic safety procedures on Safety City streets Summer activities at Safety City include: • Open recreation where children can use their bikes, strollers, skateboards, and scooters to ride on Safety City streets for a $2 admission fee • Bicycle lessons for children for a duration of five- to 30-minute lessons for a $40 fee • Private birthday party rentals with an onsite staff member, meeting room, and free play for guests for $100 / two-hour rental fee • Special Needs Program for children with special needs who can use Safety City's ADA compliant equipment and participate in bicycle riding in a safe environment Table 2.6, Safety City Participation Safety City 7,077 7,827 8,788 8,422 347 Table 2.7, Santa Land Participation Santa Land 47,957 47,703 52,050 53,729 53,014 (11,781 cars) Table 2.8, Pumpkin Trail Participation Pumpkin Trail 19,608 20,228 22,410 25,570 7,875 Santa Land One of the oldest -running programs administered by the LPARD, the Santa Land holiday and lights festival is an annual 14-day winter light display at Mackenzie Park that attracts over 50,000 visitors annually. Santa Land is themed as a winter village featuring a large lighted Christmas tree, animated holiday and Christmas displays, and bonfires. Visitors can interact and take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The event includes live entertainment and food that can be purchased at concession stands. To maintain health and safety regulations during the COVID-19 pandemic, Santa Land was converted to a drive -through winter village in 2020 to continue the 64-year old Lubbock holiday tradition uninterrupted. Table 2.7, Santa Land Participation, details the participation in the Santa Land event in the past five years. Pumpkin Trail Held every fall by the LPARD in collaboration with the Lubbock Memorial Arboretum and the Lubbock Municipal Garden and Arts Center, the Pumpkin Trail is an annual family event featuring carved jack-o-lanterns along a trail extending between Clapp Park and Lubbock Memorial Arboretum. Residents can bring carved pumpkins to be lighted at the event; and community organizations and private groups can host displays of 15 or more pumpkins. The Pumpkin Trail offers picturesque views of fall foliage and lighted lanterns and is accessible to families with strollers and persons in wheelchairs. Table 2.8, Pumpkin Trail Participation, details the participation in the Pumpkin Trail event during the five- year period from 2016 to 2020. Table 2.5, Outdoor Recreation and Events Programming Safety City Children, Youth Throughout the year Santa Land Children, Youth, Adults, Seniors Winter Pumpkin Trail Children, Youth, Adults, Seniors Fall Safety City Facility Mackenzie Park Clapp Park 2.12 Administration Lubbock Parks and Recreation Department Organization The LPARD operates and maintains the City's parks, community centers, aquatic facilities, and sports facilities, under the supervision of the Director. The Department's mission is to provide a quality system of parks, facilities, and cultural and leisure programs that exceed citizen needs. To fulfill this mission and to ensure successful operation of the City's parks system, the organizational structure of the LPARD includes four sections or divisions: Park Maintenance, Park Development, Indoor Recreation, and Outdoor Recreation. The Park Maintenance division maintains parks, certain City -owned facilities, rights -of -way, and medians. Headed by the Park Operations Manager, this division has three Park Maintenance Supervisors who are responsible for irrigation, environmental maintenance, turf and athletic field maintenance, maintenance of park amenities, maintenance of park electrical systems, and horticulture. There are 62 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) staff in the Park Maintenance division. • Lead by the Park Development Manager, the Park Development division provides programming and design services, park planning, construction, and contract administration. This division has four FTE positions. • The Indoor Recreation division operates six recreation and senior centers, which offer year-round leisure and educational classes; recreational activities, such as cooking and craft; youth camps; school programs, and special events for residents of all ages. Each recreation and senior center has a supervisor who reports to the Indoor Recreation Coordinator. The Indoor Recreation division is staffed by 23 part-time (PT) positions; and is headed by the Recreational Services Manager who also oversees Outdoor Recreation. • Outdoor Recreation provides athletic facilities and programming for youth and adult sports leagues, as well as educational, safety, and aquatic programs. The Outdoor Recreation Coordinator oversees 19 PT positions and reports to the Recreational Services Manager. The LPARD provides the following services for Lubbock's citizens: — Maintains and improves the parks system and rights -of -way, including trash and litter pickup, mowing, edging, and trimming; installation of plant materials; repair of equipment and structures; irrigation installation; and repair — Develops, administers, and monitors accessible recreational, cultural, and educational programs for people of all ages — Promotes and supervises junior, adult, and senior tennis programs at the Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center — Plans, publicizes, and manages open recreation programming and private group programming at four municipal swimming pools — Manages the City of Lubbock Cemetery and the Sam Wahl Recreation Area at Lake Alan Henry LPARD Maintenance Staff Source: City of Lubbock Parks and Recreation Advisory Board The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) is comprised of nine community members appointed by the City Council for a two-year term. Five of the board appointments are from technical fields, such as civil engineering, design and applied arts, parks and recreation management, horticulture, and landscape architecture, as well as technical fields appropriate for the Canyon Lakes development and the operations of a cemetery. The PRAB provides recommendations to the LPARD on operations, maintenance, and development of parks and cemeteries in the city. In addition, the PRAB investigates, counsels, and advises the LPARD in developing and updating a written plan for the care, preservation, pruning, planting, and removal of trees and shrubs in parks, along streets, and in other public areas. The PRAB meets monthly and provides a report of recommendations to the City Manager annually. 2.13 Partners and Stakeholders Urban Forestry and Green Spaces .�� Organizations Lubbock's community includes civic organizations and individuals advocating for the creation of green spaces, increasing the city's tree canopy, and promoting tree planting, such as the Lubbock Compact Foundation. The Lubbock Compact Foundation is a community advocacy organization, which aims to empower the community through citizen education, research, and advocacy on responsible land use strategies, environmental justice, and sustainable growth. Through its Garden City Initiative, the Lubbock Compact Foundation aims to raise awareness among Lubbock residents on the benefits of green spaces, advocating for the creation of community gardens, and investment in urban forestry. Independent School Districts ■ While there are 10 independent school districts (ISDs) that serve the larger Lubbock metropolitan area, there are three ISDs that operate and maintain school campuses within the city limits: Lubbock Independent School District, Frenship Independent School District, and Lubbock -Cooper Independent School District. These three ISDs own and manage over 70 school facilities within Lubbock, which include playgrounds and sports facilities. Approximately 40 school campuses in Lubbock are within a five-minute or a quarter -mile distance to a City -owned park. 1p� Lubbock ISD: Lubbock Independent School District (LISD) has over 27,000 students and is the largest school districts serving Lubbock residents. It has 55 facilities inside city limits, including 31 elementary schools, four early childhood schools,10 middle schools, five high schools, and five special purpose / alternative facilities. LISD maintains and operates the Pete Ragus Aquatic Center, which has an Olympic -sized swimming pool with eight 50-meter swimming lanes and a diving well. $_ Frenship ISD: The Frenship Independent School District (FISD) serves a portion of western Lubbock. There are nine FISD facilities within Lubbock city limits, including seven elementary schools and two middle schools. Ln Lubbock -Cooper ISD: '+ The Lubbock -Cooper Independent School District (LCISD) serves a portion of southern Lubbock. It has nine school campuses within Lubbock city limits. These include five elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school, and one academy forjunior and senior high school students. Youth and Adult Sports Leagues tt The City of Lubbock has partnered with several youth and adult sports leagues to provide sports programs for Lubbock residents. Through this partnership the City maintains the electrical and plumbing infrastructure; provides topsoil annually and mows weekly; and collects solid waste twice every week in the City -owned sports complexes, while the leagues maintain the fields, concession stands, restrooms, and scoreboards. Currently, there are 15 youth and adult sports leagues which have a formal agreement with the City of Lubbock for the use of sports facilities in the City's parks system. These sports leagues include little leagues and youth baseball; softball and girls fastpitch; adult baseball; soccer; and cricket. Additional information on the youth and adult sports leagues in Lubbock is detailed in Chapter 3, Sports and Athletic Facilities. _ West Texas Home Builders Association wT _ The West Texas Home Builders Association (WTHBA) is a trade association affiliated with the National Association of Home Builders and the Texas Association of Builders and represents a 24-county region which includes Lubbock. It is comprised of approximately 650 member companies representing builders, suppliers, and subcontractors in the home construction industry. The WTHBA has been sponsoring the Home and Garden Show at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center for the past 20 years, which features trends in residential construction, home improvement, and residential landscaping. The WTHBA is an important stakeholder in the development of third party -owned parks in new residential subdivisions in Lubbock. TTexas Tech University, Department of Landscape Architecture The Department of Landscape Architecture in Texas Tech University (TTU) offers an accredited landscape architecture program for undergraduate and graduate students seeking professional degrees in landscape architecture. Students and faculty in the Landscape Architecture Program at TTU specialize in semi -arid landscapes, while engaging design and planning issues critical to a sustainable, resilient, and adaptable earth and growing urban populations. The Department of Landscape Architecture (DOLA) has frequently partnered with LPARD to advance parks planning and development in Lubbock through geo-spatial research and analysis. 2.14 Needs Assessment A needs assessment employs several tools and techniques to gather information and data on community needs, priorities, and existing conditions of the park system. Information gathered from several sources and from various vantage points helps to ensure an accurate assessment of needs and priorities of all residents, stakeholders, and community members for a parks, open space, and recreation system. Quantitative and qualitative assessment methods have been used to understand Lubbock parks operations, opportunities, perceptions, and future needs. The Needs Assessment for the Lubbock Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan consists of five assessment summaries on facing page 2.16. Demand -based and Standards -based Assessments were carried out and summarized in Chapter 2, Lubbock's Parks, Chapter 3, Sports and Athletic Facilities, and Chapter 4, Indoor Recreation and Aquatics. Resource -based Assessment 1 94� 2.15 Demand -based Assessment The Demand -based Assessment identifies key findings from the community outreach and feedback efforts, including stakeholder listening sessions and community surveys / public outreach efforts. The demand -based assessment findings allow for community recreation providers and the City to identify current priorities and needs of the community, perceptions of the current parks and recreation facilities and services, and desired changes to Lubbock's recreational offerings. Standards -based Assessment The Standards -based Assessment identifies current surpluses and deficits of the parks and recreation system, including recreational programs, number of facilities, parks services areas, parks size, and the level of service and capacities of specific facilities. Findings from a standards -based assessment helps recreational providers identify what community needs, facilities, or services may be needed and where they may be most needed. Operations -based Assessment The Operations -based Assessment identifies key revenue streams, budgets, expenditures, maintenance facilities, and comparisons of Lubbock's park system to communities of a similar population. Findings from an operations -based assessment helps the City in determining profitability of the park system, including facilities and programs, to aid in future budgetary allocations, parks maintenance, and facility replacement. Conditions -based Assessment The Conditions -based Assessment utilizes methodological ranking and scoring of existing park amenities, facilities, fields, and equipment, including on -site analysis, to better understand existing quality, safety, and conditions. Findings from a conditions -based assessment will help the City understand where park improvements are needed most, maintenance needs, and aid in the prioritizing of facility replacement schedules and budgeting. Resource -based Assessment The Resource -based Assessment identifies existing natural and built features which can aid in expanding parks and recreational services, including playas, canyon lakes, drainage channels, utility rights -of -way and easements, school district properties, and other recreational providers. Findings from a resource -based assessment helps the City identify opportunities and ways to best utilize existing municipal and third -party resources for the improvement of parks and recreational offerings. Demand -based " Assessment The Demand -based Assessment in Chapter 2, Lubbock's Parks, includes a summary of key findings from stakeholder listening sessions and results of the Community Surveys listed below: • Community -Wide Survey • Planning and Development Express Survey • Golf Course Express Survey Stakeholder Listening Sessions Listening sessions were convened with a variety of stakeholder groups such as youth sports leagues and active recreation groups; nature -based tourism and urban forestry groups; business owners and real estate developers. Findings from the stakeholder listening sessions are summarized below: Quality Concerns • Issues related to the excessive number of dumpsters and unmonitored dumping at City parks - uncovered and easily accessible trash cans throughout the City result in illegal dumping • Need to study playa vegetative enhancements and address playas from an aesthetic standpoint • Use native drought -resistant vegetation to counter tree and vegetation loss • Needed improvements of turf fields and amenities such as bathrooms, lighting, parking, and scoreboards • Subpar playing field conditions caused by prairie dogs, poor site drainage, and uneven turf force sports teams to share practice fields and rotate games • Scoreboard modernization is needed - many scoreboards are outdated and there are currently only one or two businesses in Lubbock that maintain the existing scoreboards • Prairie dog holes destroy City property and are a nuisance on all sports fields Needed Infrastructure • Residents desire a dedicated indoor recreation center complex to include an indoor swimming pool (natatorium), full size regulation basketball courts, concessions, and coffee shops • Need for public art installations and programs at Canyon Lakes parks to celebrate Lubbock's cultural heritage • Need for additional lighting and emergency call buttons in parks and along trails 2.17 • Need for athletic field infrastructure to support more competitive athletic programs • Need for more dedicated outdoor space for sculptures and interactive art in parks and public spaces, such as the Moonlight Musicals amphitheater • Increased maintenance of the Lake 6 mountain biking trails, including the installation of signage, designation of levels of riding difficulty and installation of a safety network of emergency call buttons on the trails • Continued mitigation of Lubbock's urban heat island effect by increasing tree canopy • Develop a demonstration or pilot landscape enhancement project that showcases opportunities for enhanced tree canopy; start at a site -specific scale and expand based on public interest • Develop a School -Park (SPARK) program where parks are built on the corners of school properties and residents have permission to use the property outside of school hours • SPARK programs fill-in programmatic gaps that could be used by ISD children and the local community • Need for additional investment in youth sports (Pre-Kto 6th grade); pickleball, disc golf, volleyball, and basketball are in high demand among children • Desire for programs/public infrastructure that activates the community but does not require staffing • Need for WiFi connectivity in parks • Need for facilities capable of hosting large regional sports tournaments - the lack of which forces local athletes to instead compete elsewhere in Texas and New Mexico • Need for additional restrooms to be built and increase in existing restroom maintenance, including improving reliability of restroom facilities • Need for additional parking and new paving at the Southwestern, Cooper, and MLK Little League facilities Public Open House Source: Halff Associates Service / Operational Issues • Develop additional ways to evaluate and quantify the direct / indirect economic impact of large athletic events in the City • Provide variety of different values and programs at each park, so visitors and residents have varied recreational experiences depending on their interests and physical capabilities • Incentivize density and inf ill development by considering housing immediately adjacent to parks • Ensure trail and park connectivity to other outdoor recreation hotspots for biking, canoeing, etc. • Host an ongoing, real-time web -based public feedback collection system • Engage K-12 youth and college students through tree planting events and "Adopt a Tree" programs • Develop an asset management program, a facility replacement strategy, and a maintenance schedule to support preventative care throughout the park system • Develop a plan for alternatives to swimming pools which are very expensive to operate • Create a five-year workable urban forestry improvement plan that: — Identifies ideal areas for tree canopy enhancements — Identifies strategic locations for tree plantings that require minimal maintenance — Addresses tree cover disparities throughout the City • Ensure that real estate developers are contributing trees (or similar) during the platting and permitting process • Create cooperative ISD partnerships through interlocal agreements for use of recreational facilities: indoor aquatic centers, outdoor tracks, playgrounds • Encourage hiring ISD students and facilitate workforce and trade skills training including electricians, pesticide applicators, mechanical repairs • Develop a unified maintenance plan outliningfield maintenance responsibility - including maintenance crews that specialize in supporting athletic facilities and fields • Resolve existing security issues with gated parking spaces and additional lighting • Sports leagues desire more autonomy when scheduling practices and tournaments, including weeknight scheduling and lighting problems • Create a fiscally stable concessions and food truck environment during sports events, as concession stand proceeds are used to support scholarship programs for players • Include apartment associations, realtors, and residential and commercial developers when considering all types of impact fees • Strive towards funding preventative parks maintenance rather than reactive troubleshooting • Create municipal budget line items for tree planting, irrigation, and maintenance • Create a funding mechanism that finances recurring sports field maintenance separate from grant funding to sports associations • Utilize the Economic Development Corporation and Market Lubbock to direct funding towards attracting sports tournaments, and encourage collaborative relationships with Lubbock Sports, Market Lubbock, and local Chambers of Commerce • Leverage Lubbock's natural environment to capitalize on emerging eco-tourism trends • Advertise the LPARD programs better to shift community perception of LPARD functions beyond only groundskeeping and facility maintenance • Expand public outreach opportunities to include First Friday Art programs in the City, the Home and Garden show in the summer and the National Night Out in the fall • Need for a larger central vehicle maintenance facility within which to do vehicle maintenance; the existing maintenance facility is insufficient for the Department's needs Stakeholder Listening Session W• Public Open House Source: HalffAsgociates Community -Wide Survey The Community -Wide Survey represents the largest portion of the Lubbock Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan community feedback process. The survey was open from August 2021 to December 2021 and received 2,069 responses. Zip -Code location of Community -Wide Survey respondents Responses < 50 50-99 _ 100-199 200-299 _ 300-399 = 400-499 Question 1: Within the past 12 months, how often have you visited the Lubbock's parks and/ or recreation facilities? Once or Twice Over 80 percent of respondents have visited a Lubbock park or recreation facility at least three times in the past 12 months, and over two-thirds have visited more than six times. Seven percent of respondents have not visited a parks and recreation facility in the past 12 months. 2.19 Question 2: What has been your greatest experience in a Lubbock park? Experiences by the number of mentions Family / Kids 224 Walking 169 Trails / Paths 131 Playground 118 Disc Golf 92 Lake 77 Biking / Bicycles 64 Running / Jogging 58 Fishing 50 Event / Festival 49 Baseball 43 Picnic 41 Mae Simmons 40 Kayak / Boat 24 The most mentioned experiences included walking on trails or paths and spending time with family in parks or playgrounds. Other respondents enjoy active recreation in Lubbock parks such as biking, jogging, and field sports. Question 11b: If you haven't visited Lubbock's parks recently, please select your reasons) why. Select all that apply. �Ny�zy�K•yn. Parks are too far away I don't know what facilities are in the parks There is a lack of facilities that I can use There is a lack of facilities I am interested in using I am dissatisfied with the condition of existing facilities/equipment I cannot access the parks I have safety concerns Parks are overcrowded Other (please specify) Of those who have not visited a Lubbock park or recreation facility in the past 12 months, lack of interest in current facilities and dissatisfaction with facility or equipment quality were the most selected, along with parks being located too far away from respondents. "I wish there was a greater range of activities offered." � Community -Wide Survey Response Question 3: Please select the recreational facilities that you or members of your family are interested in? Select all that apply. Hike and Bike Trails Playgrounds / Play Areas for Children Family Picnic Areas Splash Pads Natural Areas Water Access Points for Rowing, Kayaking, Paddle Boarding Ball Fields / Multi -purpose Fields Off -leash Dog Areas Recreation Centers Individual or Group Exercise Areas or Activities Disc Golf Course Tennis Courts Dream Courts / Basketball Courts Sand Volleyball Courts Pickleball Courts Skateboarding Facilities Other (please specify) Respondents indicated a high interest in passive recreational activities and family -based facilities, including hike and bike trails, playgrounds, and splash pads. Additional responses include fishing areas, improved restroom facilities, and areas for birdwatching. Question 4: Please select the recreational programs that you or members of your family are interested in. Select all that apply. Outdoor Adventure Programs Adult Physical Activity Programs Family Oriented Programs Outdoor Educational Programs Sports Programs Arts / Crafts Summer and Afterschool Programs Educational Programs Cultural Programs Teen Physical Activity Programs Preschool Programs Seniors Programs I Do Not Participate Other (please specify) Respondents indicated a high interest in adult or family programs such as programs centered around adult physical activity, family -oriented programs, and outdoor adventure programs. Programs with the lowest community interest include senior programs, preschool programs, and teen physical activities. Additional responses include cycling and cultural programs. "It would be wonderful if there were more walking/biking/hiking trails in areas where there's at least some hills, trees, or water nearby." - Community -Wide Survey Response moor, -, Question 4b: If you DO NOT participate in recreation programs offered by the City of Lubbock, please select your reasons why. Select all that apply. Top Responses Not interested 35% Don't have time 32% Don't have information on programs 25% Use private facility activities/programs 14% Location is inconvenient 10% Of those who do not participate in City of Lubbock recreation programs, the top three responses are - a lack of interest, lack of time, and lack of access to information. The least common reasons for not participating in programs are a lack of transportation, and inconvenient hours. Question 5: What would be the most effective ways to provide information regarding park facilities and recreation programs offered within the City? Select all that apply. 2.20 Question 6: What sport(s) do you or members of Question 8: What do you feel are the main your household play or represent? Select all that benefits public pools and aquatic facilities apply. should provide to residents? Select all that Youth Soccer Youth Baseball (Little League) Youth Basketball Golf Tennis Youth Flag Football Pickleball Skateboarding Youth Tackle Football Adult Sand Volleyball Adult Basketball Adult Softball Girls Fast Pitch Softball Adult Soccer Adult Baseball Adult Flag or Touch Football Lacrosse Cricket I Do Not Participate In Any Sport Other (please specify) Of the 18 sports listed, participation is highest in youth sports, including soccer, baseball, and basketball. Sports with the lowest participation include adult sports, lacrosse, and cricket. Over 20 percent of respondents do not participate in any sport, and other responses include sports such as disc golf, mountain biking, and fishing. Question 7: Do you or members of your household belong to a user group / sports association? 69 percent of respondents do not 'Fry_ ss belong to a user group or sports association • • and 31 percent are associated with sports No or user groups. Popular • user groups or sports 6 • associations include Lubbock Soccer Lill �A Association, Friendship Youth Baseball, Southwest Little League, and local disc golf clubs. 100% A Place for Families to Participate in Water -based Play Teach People to Swim Aquatic Exercise A Place for Adults to Socialize with Other Residents Other (please specify) Respondents feel that public pools and aquatic facilities main benefits are to teach people to swim and as a place for families to participate in water -based play. Responses in the 'Other' category included lifeguard training and a place for affordable birthdays and gatherings. Question 9: How important do you feel it is for the City of Lubbock to provide splash pads for residents? Very Important I Don't Know / No Opinion Not Important Somewhat Inn Half of all survey respondents feel that is very important for the City of Lubbock to provide splash pads in the community. Over 75 percent of respondents said that providing splash pads is important, while only 15 percent felt that splash pads are not important for the City of provide. 2.21 Question 10: Where do you want new splash pads to be located in Lubbock? Over 70 percent of survey 70% 14% 15% respondents want to see 'Y new splashpad facilities in existing parks. Respondents in the `Other' category In In Other noted that a separate facility existing existing (please should be made or that parks aquatic specify) splash pads should not be facilities built in Lubbock. Question 11: Within the past 12 months, how often have you or your family visited indoor recreation facilities in Lubbock? Once or Twice 3-6 Times More than 6 Times Haven't Visited in the Past Year Never Have Been Other (please specify) Question 12: Of the indoor programs and activities offered at the City of Lubbock community centers, which would you like to 30r participate in? Select all that apply. Over half of survey respondents have not visited or have never been to a City indoor recreation facility. Almost 18 percent of respondents have been at least once, while over 17 percent have visited more than 6 times. This could indicate a preference for outdoor recreation or limited knowledge or access to existing indoor facilities. Fitness and Wellness Classes Children's Arts and Crafts Cultural Programs and Celebrations Leisure and Enrichment Programs Attending Social Events Afterschool and Holiday Camps Computer Labs and Courses Senior Programs and Activities Social Services (Tax Preparation, etc.) Nearly half of survey respondents said they would participate in fitness and wellness classes provided by the City. Over a third of respondents would participate in children's arts and crafts, cultural programs, and social events. Just below 15 percent of respondents said they are interested in more topic -specific programs such as computer lessons and social service aid. 2.22 Question 13: If you haven't visited Lubbock's parks recently, please select your reason(s) why. Select all that apply. Lack of personal time/too busy Covid-19 / social distancing concerns I have not experienced any barriers to participating in indoor recreational activities Lack of desired facilities Lack of desired programs Programs not offered at a convenient time Lack of money/Programs and facilities are too expensive Lack of child care Personal health problems/disability/age Lack of transportation Other (please specify) Approximately 20 percent of survey respondents said that Covid-19 and a lack of time are the two main barriers to participate in indoor recreation. Less than 5 percent of respondents said that a lack of money, childcare, or inconvenient times as barriers to participation. Approximately 12 percent of respondents did note that there is a lack of desired indoor facilities and desired programs. Question 15: Which initiatives should the Lubbock Parks Department prioritize for future implementation? Select all that apply. Develop and improve existing facilities Develop more passive recreation (hiking, bird watching, etc.) opportunities Acquire land for future parks development Preserve natural areas Non -Motorized recreational trails Develop and improve provision of sports / athletic facilities and fields Develop more active recreation (team sports, cycling, etc.) opportunities Nature and historical programming Develop more indoor recreation facilities Question 14: How important is the existence of a neighborhood park when purchasing a new home? Very Important I Don't Know / No Opinion 20% 40 % 60 % 80% Over three quarters of respondents feel Lubbock should prioritize the development and improvement of existing facilities. Approximately half of respondents said the development of passive recreation and expansion for future parks should be prioritized. There is a large preference and need for additional recreational facilities across Lubbock. Not Important Somewhat Important A large majority of survey , respondents, at over 90 percent, said that nearby neighborhood parks are very important or somewhat important in the decision of purchasing a new home. Only 6 percent of respondents said that parks are not important when purchasing a home. 2.23 Golf Course Express Survey The Golf Course Express Survey is one of the short targeted surveys aimed at receiving feedback from golf course users in Lubbock. The survey was open from August 2021 to December 2021 and received 220 responses. Zip -Code location of Community -Wide Survey respondents Responses < 50 50-99 100-199 _ 200-299 _ 300-399 _ 400-499 Question 1: Which of the following best describes the number of times you play at the Meadowbrook Golf Course during the year? 40% 30 20 O 10% O 57:2%-,Io Too Once a Once Once a Once Once a many week every month every year times to other six count week months A majority of respondents said they play only once a year or once every six months.Avid golf course users made up over 15 percent of respondents, with 6 percent playing once a week, and 9 percent saying they have played too many times to count. Question 3: Which golf course in Lubbock do you play the most? Question 2: Which of the following describe why you choose to play golf at Meadowbrook Golf Course? Select all that apply. Convenient location I saw promotions / Advertisements / Social Media My friends / family / co-workers play here Discounted fees This facility has amenities that I like I have played this facility before Other (please specify) Almost 40 percent of respondents said they play at Meadowbrook because their friends, family, or coworkers play at this location. Around 30 percent of respondents noted discounted fees and that they have played at the facility before. Only 6 percent of respondents said that enjoyment of the facilities amenities are the reason they play, and only 2 percent said because of promotions, advertisements, or social media posts. course has a great • • • AIR Community -Wide Survey Response r-IRl.�1, Question 4: What are the top three (3) areas that should be prioritized for improvement or renovation at Meadowbrook Golf Course? Golf Course Clubhouse Driving Range Restroom Facilities on the Course Golf Carts Customer Service Restroom Facilities in the Clubhouse Food and Beverage Cart Seating Area and Patio Other (please specify) A large majority of respondents said the golf course needs improvements. 36 percent of respondents said that restroom facilities and the driving range need to be improved. The facilities that respondents noted to need the least improvement were the outdoor patio spaces and the food and beverage cart. Respondents in the Other category noted poor condition of the grass, limited trees and landscaping, and poor maintenance as the main areas for improvement. 2.24 Planning and Development Express Survey The Planning and Development Express Survey is one of the short, targeted survey aimed at receiving feedback from persons with a stake in Lubbock's development, building, planning, and economy. The survey was open from August 2021 to December 2021 and received 1,032 responses. Zip -Code location of Community -Wide Survey respondents Responses < 50 ad 50-99 _ 100-199 _ 200-299 _ 300-399 = 400-499 Question 2: Which initiatives should the Lubbock Parks Department prioritize for future implementation? Select all that apply. Develop and improve existing facilities Acquire land forfuture parks development Develop more passive recreation Develop and improve provision of sports / athletic facilities and field Preserve natural areas Non -Motorized recreational trails Develop more active recreation opportunities Develop more indoor recreation facilities Nature and historical programming Almost half of respondents noted that future parkland acquisition should be prioritized. 46 percent of respondents said that the development of passive recreation should be prioritized, when compared to only 28 percent saying that active recreation should be prioritized. Respondents showed more of a desire for the improvement of existing facilities and a focus on non - sports recreation such as trails and natural areas when compared to the development of more sports -based improvements. 2.25 Question 1: Please select the three (3) most important actions the Lubbock Parks and Recreation Department can take for parks and recreation. Renovate existing neighborhood parks, playgrounds, shelters, parking, etc. Develop additional walking and biking trails Construct new splash pads in existing parks Renovate existing athletic facilities (e.g. soccer, baseball/softball, basketball) Partner with the school district to provide mutually beneficial facilities and programs Provide parks and amenities that can be used by people with disabilities Provide more community events in parks Renovate existing aquatic facilities to improve the condition of existing swimming pools Renovate existing indoor recreation facilities / community centers Renovate existing aquatic facilities to add new splash pads The top three responses are renovating existing neighborhood parks (67 percent), developing additional walking and biking trails (54 percent), and constructing new splash pads (40 percent). Although responses were generally evenly dispersed, the responses demonstrate a slightly higher desire for new splashpads rather than renovation of aquatic facilities or the renovation of existing pools for Question 3: How important is the existence of a neighborhood park when purchasing a new home? Very Important I Don't Know / No Opinion Not Important Somewhat Important Similar to findings from Question 14 in the Community -wide Survey, over 90 percent or respondents said that nearby neighborhood parks are very important or somewhat important in the decision of purchasing a new home. Only 6 percent of respondents said that parks are not important when purchasing a home. Demand -based Assessment Summary • Results from the Community Needs Survey and stakeholder meetings indicate that Lubbock parks are visited at least six times a year by over two- thirds of respondents. • Results from the stakeholder meetings indicate that maintenance and the condition of existing facilities such as scoreboards, lighting, and turf conditions are the major concerns. • Stakeholders are concerned with limitations to field play, such as scheduling hours, lighting, facility rental, and closures. • Stakeholders desire facilities and support to host regional sporting tournaments. • Stakeholders and survey respondents seek improved maintenance of vegetation, trees, and grasses, noting dead plantings and patches of bare soil. • Over 90 percent of survey respondents feel that proximity to a park facility is an important factor in deciding of where to buy a home. • Survey respondents indicated a preference for passive recreational opportunities, preferring activates such as walking, cycling, picnic areas, and family activities, as opposed to active recreation such as court and field -based sports. • Respondents prefer outdoor based activities rather than indoor based activities and programs. • Survey respondents are most concerned with the condition and quality of existing facilities and many feel that existing facilities do not interest them. • Respondents feel that developing and improving existing facilities, developing passible recreation, and acquiring land for future parks are the most important initiatives LPARD should implement. • Survey respondents feel that improving the quality of the Meadowbrook golf course should be prioritized, while existing restroom facilities and seating areas are adequate. 2.26 Standards -based Assessment The Standards -Based approach to assessing parks and recreation needs in the community utilizes recommendations and standards from the NRPA to determine the level of service for parkland, park facilities and park equipment, as well as the level of service for recreational facilities, services, and programs. Specifically, the Standards -Based Assessment determines parkland acreage level of service (number of parkland acres per 1,000 people) and service area (number of residents within a standard distance) for each park and facility in the community. A high level of service for a park or recreational facility means that it is adequately meeting the needs of the community. Conversely, a low level of service signifies inadequacy or gaps in the park system such that it is not fully meeting the needs of the community. Level of service targets for a community's parks and recreational facilities are primarily aspirational and may not be met fully, but they serve as important measures of performance that can help direct funding and resources for improvements and development in the community's park system. These measures should be consulted in conjunction with sustained community input, changing recreational needs and trends, and other City specific needs. The Standards -Based Assessment also utilizes the NRPA Park Metrics to compare Lubbock's acreage and service area information to similar information from benchmark communities with a similar population. Lubbock's benchmark communities include counties, municipalities, townships, special districts, and regional agencies nationwide that: • Provide parks and recreation services to a population between 200,000 and 300,000, and • Have submitted an agency performance survey for NRPA in 2020. Based on these two criteria, there are 39 benchmark communities for Lubbock, as reported in the 2020 NRPA Park Metrics which illustrate the performance of a 'typical' park system and reveals variations in park acreage and provision of facilities by population size, agency size, and other metrics. Reviewing benchmark metrics from peer communities helps plan for an optimal and customized mix of parks, facilities, and services for Lubbock. Existing Acreage Level of Service The determination of the level of service (LOS) is based upon the amount and distribution of parkland and recreational facilities offered to Lubbock residents. The acreage level of service standards for community, neighborhood, and regional parks is used to help determine the adequate number of parkland acres needed to meet the community's needs in 2022 as well as needs of the projected population in 2040. Benchmark Communities As described in Table 2.9, Current Level of Service In Lubbock (2020), the existing parkland acreage for all parks cumulatively in Lubbock is 3,472 acres. Lubbock's current population (2020) is 262,261 people, which means that there is 13.5 acres of parkland available for every 1,000 residents. According to the 2020 Parks Metrics, the median LOS of parkland acres per 1,000 residents for Lubbock's benchmark communities is 9.7 acres, as depicted in Figure 2.2, Benchmark Communities Parkland LOS Comparison, on the facing page. This places Lubbock's current LOS, at 13.5, above upper quartile of 13.1 parkland acres. This demonstrates that residents of Lubbock have access to more City parkland when compared to residents of benchmark communities. While sports facilities, civic parks / special -use parks, and linear parkland acres are included in the total parkland acres, special use parks such as Meadowbrook Golf Course may not be accessible to all Lubbock residents. 2.27 Figure 2.2, Benchmark Communities Parkland LOS Comparison: )Lubbock Parkland Acres per 1,000 Residents Lower Upper Quartile Median Quartile 6.4 9.7 13.1 Acres Acres Acres Level of Service Recommendations for Park Type The NRPA sets recommendations for the amount of parkland in a community per 1,000 residents that can be used to assess the need for additional parkland or park types. The NRPA's recommended LOS per park type is based on assumptions of park size and the intended user for each park type. For example, a typical neighborhood park is smaller in size (acreage) and serves a smaller population base when compared to a larger community or regional park. It is important to note Table 2.9, Current Level of Service in Lubbock Neighborhood Parks 308 1.2 1 Community Parks 624 2.4 2 Regional Parks 762 3.0 5 Sports Facilities 302 1.2 n/a Civic Parks / Special 1472 5.8 n/a Use Parks Linear Parks 4 0.02 n/a Cumulative Target 3472 13.5 n/a Acreage (All Parks) that the NRPA does not have recommended target LOS per park acre for sports facilities, civic parks / special - use parks, and linear parks. As illustrated in Table 2.9, Current Level of Service in Lubbock (2021), the current acreage LOS for neighborhood parks is 1.2. This is slightly above the recommended standard of 1, demonstrating Lubbock has a surplus of 50.8 acres of neighborhood parkland. Community parks current LOS is 2.4. This is higher than the recommended 2, demonstrating Lubbock has a surplus of 109.8 acres of community parkland. Regional parks current LOS is 3.0, which is lower than the recommended 5, indicating a deficit of over 523 acres of regional parkland. Target Acreage Level of Service As illustrated in, Table 2.10, Current and Future Level of Service, there is a current surplus in parkland acreage for neighborhood parks and community parks, and a deficit in regional parkland. The 2032 recommended 345.0 acres will decrease the current surplus of neighborhood parks, bringing the projected 2032 deficit of neighborhood parkland to 37.1 acres. The current 99.5 acre surplus of community parks will decrease by 225.2 acres, bringing the projected 2032 deficit of community parkland to 66 acres. The current deficit of regional parks will increase by 413.7 acres, bringing the projected 2032 deficit of regional parkland to 963 acres. This means that Lubbock will need additional neighborhood, community, and regional parkland acres to meet the needs of residents. Future deficits in community park acreage are expected to be bolstered by 570.1 acres of special use parks in Canyon Lakes which will provide open spaces and recreational facilities similar to those in regional and community parks. Table 2.10, Current and Future Level of Service in Lubbock 2022 and 2032: Neighborhood 1 1.2 Parks Community Parks 2 2.4 Regional Parks 5 3.0 262.3 I 45.7 I Surplus I 345.0 I (37.1) 524.5 99.5 Surplus 690.0 (66) 1,311.3 (549.3) Deficit F- 1725.0 (963.0) Deficit Deficit Deficit 2.28 Park Service Area and Accessibility A park's service area is determined by its 'walkshed,' or the average distance users must walk to access it. For neighborhood and pocket parks, which are primarily located in residential areas and utilized by families and children who typically walk to the park facilities, the recommended walkshed is one-half mile, or an eight- to 10-minute walking distance. For a community park, the service area is three to five miles. Other than those who live within a one-half mile of the park, a community park is typically accessed by driving to the park. Analyzing service areas for parks helps to characterize the distribution of parks in a community. Specifically, it identifies the under - served areas in the city where residents may have to walk or drive longer distances to access parks and recreational facilities. As illustrated in Map 2.2, Parks Service Area, over 80 percent of all residential buildings within the city limits of Lubbock are within a one-half mile walkshed of a park, including community, neighborhood, regional, civic, special use, and linear parks. Residents with the greatest access to parks live in central Lubbock, near the Canyon Lakes system, Clapp Park, Maxey Park, and M.C. Overton Park. Many residents living in newer residential developments west and south of TX-289 Loop do not have access to a City -owned park located within a 10-minute walkshed. While Homeowners Association (HOA) parkland and Public Improvement District (PID) parkland may supplement this deficit in many residential subdivisions, there is a need for additional parks in the west and south of Lubbock. This will ensure that current and future residents have access to parks, recreational facilities, and open spaces. McAlister Park and Mahon Park Pedestrian access to parks such as McAlister Park and Mahon Park is limited to residents that otherwise would be within a 10-minute walkshed (areas in red). Access to Mahon Park is limited to nearby residents south of US-82, and access is limited to residents surrounding McAlister Park (for more information about the McAlister Park Master Plan, refer to page 2.76) *Areas in red are approximated walk -shed areas and do not reflect the exact locations efffected by connectivity limitations Lubbock's throughfare network is comprised of several highways which limit pedestrian connectivity and only offer safe crossing at limited locations. In some cases, parks located near or along throughfares are not accessible to residents living on the other side of the highway. In other words, although residents may live in proximity to a park, there exist barriers to accessibility, including highways, railroads, drainage canals, and state roads, which limit safe or convenient park access. Parks such as Hodges Park, Comancheria Lake Park, Llano Estacado Lake Park, and Aztlan Park have diminished accessibility due to rail lines and highways to the north, east, and south. Of these parks, McAlister Park and Berl Huffman Sports Complex are located next to highways, which almost completely limit all access to the parks by residents choosing to walk or use a bicycle. Clapp Dog Park Source: Halff Associates 2.29 Park Key 01 : Andrews, Clifford Park 02 : Aztlan Park 03 : Aztlan Park Link 04: Berry Park 05 : Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center 06 : Burns Park 07: Bulter Park 08: Carlisle Park 09 : Carter Park 10: Casey, David Park 11 : Chatman, J.A. Park 12: Clapp, K.N. Park 13 : Cooke, Alex & Verna Park 14: Crow, Earl Park 15 : Davies, Judge Walter Park 16 : Davis, A.B. Park 17: Davis, LT. Col. George A. Jr. Park 18 : Dupree, George W. Park / 19 : Duran, Dr. Armando Park / 20 : Elmore, Leroy Park / 21 : Furr, Ray -Pioneer Park 22 : Gateway Plaza 23: Guadalupe Park 24: Guy, Charles Park 25: Hamilton, Stumpy Park 26: Higinbotham Park 27: Hinojosa Fields 28: Hodges, Helen Park 29: Hoel, Phil Park 30: Hollins Park 31 : Holly, Buddy & Maria Elena Park 32 : Holly, Buddy Recreation Center 33 : Hood, Mose Park 34: Huffman, Berl Athletic Center 35 : Huneke, Henry War Memorial Park 36 : Jennings. Jan Park 37: Kastman Park 38 : Lakewood Development Area 39: Leftwich, M. Park 40 : Lewis, Jack Park 41 : Long, Buster Park 42: Lopez, Richard Park 43 : Lubbock Youth Sports Complex 44: Lusk, Willie Park 45: Mackenzie Park 46: Maedgen, E. Park 47: Mahon, George Park 48 : Maxey Park 49: McAlister, Bill Park 50: McCrummen Park 51 : McCullough, B. Park 52 : Meadowbrook Golf Course 53 : Miller, Bill & Ann Park 54: MLKComplex 55 : Neugebauer, Randy Park 56: Overton, M.C. Park 57: Pallotine Park 58: Ratliff, W. Park r. 7 59 : Rawlings, Copper Park — — — — — — — — I — _t — — — I— �_1 60: Reagan, Naomi Park 61 : Remington Park 62: Ribble, O.W. Park 63: Rodgers Park 64: Sedberry, Will Park 65 : Simmons, Mae Park 66 : Sims, Gladys Park 67: Smith, Preston Park 68 : Stevens, Jack Park 69 : Strong, Jack & Mary Nell Park 70: Stubbs Park 71 : Tech Terrace Park 72 : Tim Cole Memorial Park 73: Underwood Park 74: Wagner Park 75: Washington Park 76 : Wheelock Park 77: Whisperwood Median 78 : Woods, George Park 79 : Consquistador Lake r 80 : Llano Estacado Lake i 81 : Comancheria Lake/ Canyon Rim 1 82 : Dunbar Historical Lake — — — — — — — — — J I� 27 \ �� i■ I, lelE�G3-- i hu�flll■� ��� :1 n ■ ri �� tt � II BEM WHININ ...� 3 4. 'MANI. In OEM AM WE AM 1M1M— s LZM�=- W T'T i■iii� ..IM _,�- LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN Client: City of Lubbock ConsuLtants: HaLff Associates, Inc. Data Sources: City of Lubbock, Texas LEGEND Park 10-Minute Walk Service Area 0 Lubbock City Limits _ Lubbock ETJ Interstate State Road Principal Arterial Road Major Collector Street Minor Arterial Street Minor Collector Street Local Road Rail line Water Body Public / Institutional I Ll. L 1 mile 2 3 1 inch = 8,333 feet KIM True North 148th Li U c / D p - D v Woodrow Rd. 1[7— MAP 2.2; PARK SERVICE AREA September 2022 irks. Recreation. and Open Space Master Plan PARD Strategies and Recommendations Objective U: Ensure an equitable distribution of connected and accessible parks, facilities, and open spaces throughout the community. Strategy 1.1.1: Prioritize parkland acquisition that increases the percentage of residents that are within a 10-minute walk to a park. Approximately 80 percent of Lubbock's residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park, which is significantly higherthan the national average of 55 percent. Despite this relatively high percentage, the City should continually strive to maintain or increase residents' access to park space. To achieve greater accessibility the City should prioritize acquiring land that would be suitable to support park spaces and associated amenities. Referring to Map 2.2, Park Service Area, on page 2.30, prioritizing parkland acquisition in areas that are currently outside of an existing park 10-minute walkshed from residential areas is recommended, as these are locations that would most significantly contribute to the increase in the percentage of residents within 10 minutes of a park. Additionally, Lubbock has an extensive ETJ that could be incorporated into the citythrough voluntary annexations; therefore, any long-range planning efforts should considerthe future parkland development in the ETJ. Actions and Initiatives 1. As summarized in Strategy 1.1.3, continue to work with the development community in developing an equitable arrangement whereby parkland is allocated within new residential subdivisions. 2. As described in Strategy 1.5.1, continue to work with the Water Department to identify specific overflow and nonoverflow playas within and outside of developing areas that could support the dual function of providing urban drainage infrastructure and needed open space for recreational facilities. 3. As summarized in Strategy 1.5.2, identify publicly -owned land (e.g., utilities and drainage infrastructure rights -of -way and easements) that may support recreational trails which could provide enhanced access and connectivity from points of origin (e.g., residential areas) to key destinations (e.g., parks and schools). 4. As summarized in Strategy 1.5.4 and Strategy 1.5.5, focus on partnerships with the three independent school districts (ISDs) in the Lubbock area whereby school facilities and/or property is made available to accommodate local residents' desire for local recreational activity. S. As summarized in Strategy 6.1.4, develop a "Friends of Lubbock's Parks" foundation, the powers and authorities of which would include the abilityto be bequeathed land for future parks, and the abilityto purchase land on behalf of the City. Strategy 1.1.2: Provide equitable distribution of recreational facilities and amenities throughout the City. Park systems best serve a community when the recreational facilities and amenities offered are equitably distributed throughout the city. As previously established, the type of amenities that are offered at parks depend on park typology. One of the primary goals of the park system should be to provide consistent amenities at all parks within the same classification through the standards developed as an outcome of Action 3. For example, users should be able to expect that the amenities available at one neighborhood park location are likely to be found in another neighborhood park. Equitable distribution of amenities contributes to park level of service and increases accessibility to amenities for all residents. Actions and Initiatives 1. Utilize NRPA facilities and equipment standards as a 'back -of -the -napkin' point of departure for evaluating the geographic distribution of recreational facilities. 2. Continue to utilize regional comparison community information to inform the provision of facilities. 3. During the next Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan Update, conduct an Equity -based Assessment of parks and recreational facilities to determine equitable distribution of facilities and the consistent application of operations and maintenance practices in the management of the City's parks. Strategy 1.1.3: Partner with the private sector to provide adequate parkland in developing areas. Partner with local developers to ensure that adequate open space is provided for the integration of parks and recreational facilities into new residential developments in and around the City of Lubbock. The LPARD understands that developers want to utilize playas and adjacent lands within the 100-year floodplain to serve the dual function of stormwater detention and providing a location for parks and other amenities. Locating parks in floodplains and designing associated facilities so they are subject to periodic flooding is a common practice for municipalities throughout Texas. Providing parkland around playas is an important way to enhance and maintain the visual character of the playa and associated floodplain. For these reasons creating parks around playas is a practice that should continue. Developers need assurance that if parkland is dedicated within their residential subdivisions and is made available for use by the general public that it will be adequately maintained and not decrease the value of adjacent residential properties. 2.31 The following issues and questions should provide a framework to guide the conversation: 1. Who provides the requisite land for the park? 2. How much land should be allocated for parks and recreational facilities? 3. Who develops the park and provides the recreational facilities? 4. To what standards are the parks constructed? 5. Who maintains the parks and associated facilities in perpetuity? 6. Who can use the parks? Are they privately owned, operated, and maintained; or are they open to the public? These and other questions must be answered in the pursuit of an effective and equitable relationship between the City and the private development community. Several options are being evaluated. As part of the solution the LPARD must be involved with predetermining, at the time of platting, the types of recreational facilities required in the area, and the amount of land required to support those facilities. The LPARD must also provide the standards (refer to Strategy 1.3.8, page 2.70) and facility/equipment specifications to which the recreational area will be constructed. Actions and Initiatives 1. Continue to work with the West Texas Builders Association to determine an equitable arrangement for the dedication of open space and provision of recreational facilities in developing residential areas Strategy 1.1.4: Evaluate walking access to parks in each neighborhood and subdivision in the city. Barriers to park access include heavily -trafficked thoroughfares that lack sidewalks or safe pedestrian crossing. Results from the Demand -Based Assessment indicate the need for safe and accessible sidewalks and crosswalks along busy streets for safe and convenient pedestrian access to parks, trails, and recreational facilities. A lack of universal design features also impedes access to parks and trails for persons with disabilities. Examining walking access to City -owned parks from surrounding neighborhoods will help establish the need for constructing appropriately designed or universally accessible sidewalks, trails, and park features that ensure equitable access for all residents in Lubbock, including those with a wide range of needs or disabilities. Walking access to a park from surrounding neighborhoods is also important to ensure equitable access to park facilities for low-income families who may not be able to conveniently access transit or personal vehicles for regular visits to parks and recreational facilities. By examining walking access to parks from each neighborhood and subdivision within Lubbock, the LPARD can undertake remedial renovation and construction of sidewalks to ensure that all parks are accessible and connected to their adjacent neighborhoods and other areas of the city. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Coordinate with the Lubbock Street Department to ensure crosswalk striping and pedestrian signals at all street intersections adjacent to neighborhood and community parks. 2. Coordinate with the Lubbock Street Department to ensure that sidewalks and street crossings adjacent to all parks are ADA-compliant. Standards -based Assessment Summary As the City of Lubbock continues to grow it will be important that the City develops and implements a parkland allocation and acquisition program; and utilizes appropriate criteria and standards through which to identify, allocate, and develop sufficient parkland and recreational facilities to ensure an equitable and geographic distribution of open space resources. The City will need to develop partnerships with quasi -public and private entities to ensure this is accomplished efficiently and proactively, ahead of development. Implementing the strategies and actions associated with the Resource -based Assessment will help to bridge future parkland acreage deficit gaps. Additionally, it is imperative that the City ensures safe walking and cycling access to parks and recreational facilities. 2.32 Operations -Based Assessment Introduction The operations -based assessment examines the Lubbock Parks and Recreation Department's (LPARD) operations to determine the adequacy of available funding, staffing and capacity to effectively engage in operations and maintenance activities, and reviews overall fiscal performance, including revenue generation and operating expenditures. This assessment helps determine the LPARD's effectiveness in maintaining and operating a high -quality parks system that meets the community's goals and expectations. Key Metrics This Operations -Based Assessment utilizes the LPARD's operating expenditure and revenue information for the previous five years to assess whether the Department is adequately funded to manage, operate, and maintain its parks and recreation system; and to understand if the LPARD is addressing competing community needs with existing financial and other resources. Specifically, metrics used in this Operations -Based Assessment can be grouped into the three following categories: Expen The LPARD must ensure that the provision of resources to administer, operate, and maintain Lubbock's parks system is commensurate with the size Staffing and requirements of the system. w The LPARD's operating expenditures include all costs for providing parks and recreation services for Lubbock's residents, including equipment, materials, agency employee salaries and benefits, and utilities expenses. The LPARD's revenue includes all the monies or earnings generated directly from parks and recreation programs. Examples of revenue generating activities include concessions, permits, fees, rentals, memberships, and other non -tax sources. The staffing category examines the number of FTE positions reported by the LPARD. An important component of this Operations -Based Assessment are regional comparison community metrics. Regional comparison communities are located in Texas, and have similar Cost of Living Indexes and populations when compared to Lubbock (refer to Table 2.11, Regional Comparison Community Summary, next page). These 14 communities were chosen to provide similar contextual comparison to Lubbock. There are 14 regional comparison communities that fulfill these criteria and serve as comparable communities for this assessment. Table 2.11, Regional Comparison Community Summary Lubbock, TX 262,261 89* Abilene, TX 125,182 89* 1,287 Amarillo, TX 200,393 88* 2,400 Brownsville, TX 186,738 88* 1,000 Corpus Christi, TX 317,863 93* 2,022 Denton, TX 139,898 101 5,702 Frisco, TX 200,509 120 1,787 Garland, TX 246,018 96 2,438 Grand Prairie, TX 196,100 97 5,010 Irving, TX 256,684 99 1,932 Laredo, TX 255,141 90* 1,376 McKinney, TX 195,308 111 2,756 Midland, TX 132,524 98* 1,364 Plano, TX 286,980 112 4,375 San Angelo, TX 99,893 91* 718 *Source: AdvisorSmith Cost of Living Index The Cost of Living Index used in this analysis to compare communities to the City of Lubbock was created using data from over 500 cities in the United States. The index is constructed so that the average cost of living is normalized to 100, which is considered the national average. For example, a city with an index score of 130 has a cost of living that is 30 percent higher than the national average. The cost of living was determined based on six major expense categories: food, housing, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and consumer discretionary spending. Each expense category is assigned a weighted value and aggregated to determine the cities' overall cost of living index. The percentage weight allocated for each category was determined based upon the average U.S. household budget. Data was sourced from various state and federal entities such as the U.S. Census, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Energy, and many more. Cost of Living Index values were sourced from either AdvisorSmith (https:Hadvisorsmith.com/data/coli/) orAreaVibes (https://www.areavibes.com/) online databases. These indexes use the same categories but with slightly different weighted values. This analysis recognizes that total expenditures and revenue generated vary between communities due to a variety of factors, including parkland geography, complexity of maintenance required, and user fees for recreation programs and facilities. However, comparing key metrics across similar communities provides a typical value and range of variation for each operating cost and revenue metric, and helps determine the general standard of performance for a typical municipal parks and recreation agency. The resulting comparative analysis facilitates planning and decision making that is informed, robust, and responsive to best practices. This analysis helps to provide greater context for Lubbock's PARD to further evaluate how the Department performs against regional and national standards. Operating Expenditure Metrics Operating Budget The annual operating expenditures for the LPARD includes expenditures on personnel services; materials and supplies for parks and recreational facilities; and maintenance of parks and recreational facilities. The annual budget also includes capital outlay expenditures for the ongoing or upcoming parks capital projects. The total operating budget for the LPARD in fiscal year (FY) 2021 (October 1, 2021 - September 30, 2022) is $12.1 million. Over the past five years, the operating budget has increased by 19 percent from $10.1 million to $11.8 million (refer to Table 2.12, Operating Budget Changes, 2017-2021). As the City's vast parks system has aged and requires additional maintenance and upkeep, the LPARD's operating budget has increased to cover the maintenance and development costs for the existing 83 parks, four aquatic facilities, and six indoor community and senior centers, as well as maintenance of rights -of - way, road medians, and non -park municipal facilities. The operating budget for park development, which includes expenditures for planning and installing new park facilities and amenities, had the largest budget increase, at 57 percent, between FY 2017 and FY 2021. Table 2.12, Operating Budget Changes, 2017-2021 Park Maintenance Indoor Recreation Outdoor Recreation Park Development Total During the same period, the operating budgets for indoor recreation and park maintenance increased by 24 percent and 21 percent, respectively, while the operating budget for outdoor recreation decreased by four percent. Operating budget increases for indoor recreation are attributed primarily to the addition of FTE and part-time positions for indoor recreation program instructors and ancillary staff in Lubbock's nine community and seniorcenters. The five-year increase in operating budgets for park maintenance and park development are due to the increased planting and maintenance of trees (including at the 328-acre Meadowbrook Golf Course); planning for in-house construction projects; and managing parks capital improvement projects from pre -bidding to completion within the required project completion time frame. The outdoor recreation operating budget has decreased between FY 2017 and FY 2021 due to a reduction in the number of sports seasons sponsored by the LPARD. Sponsorship decreasing from three to one between 2017 and 2018, with no increases since then. 1% 3% 0% 0% 18% 21% 2% 6% (-16%) 3% 34% 24% 6% (-3%) (-26%) 5% 26% (-4%) 4% 15% (-42%) 43% 81% 57% 1% 3% (AOE 19% 22% 19% Operating Budget and Park Acreage While there has not been a significant increase in the City of Lubbock's parkland acreage in the past five years, additional acreage within the Canyon Lakes system is anticipated to be developed in the future. Analyzing Lubbock's expenditures on parkland acreage sheds light on how adequately funding is being allocated for the maintenance of the City's vast 3,472-acre parks system. Furthermore, the LPARD's maintenance budget includes non -parkland expenses, such as the 22 miles of right-of- way and median maintenance and 10 acres of mowing, edging, and litter control for City of Lubbock facilities. As Lubbock's population continues to grow and the City's park system ages, the costs of parkland and non -parkland maintenance carried out by the LPARD is expected to increase. This signifies a need to increase the LPARD's maintenance budget in the coming years. Operating budget metrics for the regional comparison communities were calculated based on fiscal year 2021- 2022. By examining the LPARD's budget on a per acre basis the quality of maintenance currently provided by the LPARD can be compared to national and regional comparison cities. In FY 2019 Lubbock's operating budget per acre of parkland managed was $3,495. However, when comparing Lubbock's operating expenditure per acre to the regional comparison communities in FY 2021, $3,495 per acre is lower than all 14 regional comparison communities and far below the median of $7,098 per acre managed (refer to Figure 2.3, Operating Budget Per Acre Managed for Regional Comparison Communities). In other words, Lubbock is spending significantly less on its parkland when compared to other Texas communities with similar cost of living indexes and populations. Indicating that the LPARD's budget is inadequately funded according to this metric. Stubbs Park play equipment Source: City of Lubbock Figure 2.3, Operating Budget PerAcre Managed for Regional Comparison Communities y Lubbock, TX Abilene, jX ' Amarillo, TX Brownsville, TX Corpus Christi, fX Denton, TX Frisco, TX Garland, TX Grand Prairie, TX Irving, TX 4V Laredo, TX McKinney, TX Midland, TX Plano, TX San Angelo, TX d Median: $7,098 $12,000 2.36 Operating Budget Per Capita Lubbock's per capita expenditures in FY 2019 was $46. Similarly, findings for the regional comparison communities in FY 2021 indicate Lubbock's per capita expenditure ranked as the second lowest in the group (Figure 2.4, Operating Budget Per Capita for Regional Comparison Communities). Half of the comparison communities spend at least $63 per capita. In summary, according to this metric the City of Lubbock allocates significantly less funds to its Parks and Recreation Department for a city of its size, and as a result, spends less on a per capita basis when evaluated against regional comparison communities. Art in the Parks Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Figure 2.4, Operating Budget Per Capita for Regional Comparison Communities Lubbock, TX Abilene, TX Amarillo, TX Brownsville, TX Corpus Christi, TX Denton, TX Frisco, TX Garland, TX Grand Prairie, TX Irving, TX Laredo, TX McKinney, TX Midland, TX Plano, TX San Angelo, TX Median: $63 300 Revenue Metrics The LPARD generates revenue through events, concessions, permits, rentals, and memberships. This is funneled back to the operational budget for the Department and helps recover the costs of operation. In FY 2019, the Department generated $341,791 in revenues from indoor recreation programs and building rentals, and outdoor recreation programs. Table 2.13, Parks and Recreation Department Revenue Summary, provides a breakdown of revenues generated by the LPARD from FY 2017 through FY 2019. The decrease in revenue in FY 2019 is attributed to the closure of City facilities and suspension of recreation programs at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring and summer of 2020 (FY 2019). Revenue Per Capita Revenue per capita for the regional comparison communities was calculated based on fiscal year 2021- 2022. In FY 2021, the per capita revenue generated by the LPARD was $3.5. Revenue per capita for the comparison communities has an even wider range than the benchmark communities, ranging from $2 to $299 in per capita revenue (Figure 2.5, Revenue Per Capita for Regional Comparison Communities). The LPARD's revenue per capita is the third lowest out of all the comparison cities and far below the median per capita revenue of $19. This indicates that the revenue generated per capita by indoor and outdoor recreation rental fees and programs in Lubbock is far below revenue generation figures in other similar communities across the country. Table 2.13, Parks and Recreation Department Revenue Summary Indoor Recreation 1 $ 274,450 $279,153 $81,335 Outdoor Recreation $604,592 $572,146 I $260,456 Total $879,042 $851,299 $341,791 2.37 Figure 2.5, Revenue Per Capita for Regional Comparsion Communities Median: $19 Lubbock, TX Abilene, TX Amarillo, TX Brownsville, TX Corpus Christi, TX Denton, TX Frisco, TX Garland, TX Grand Prairie, TX Irving, TX Laredo, TX McKinney, TX • Midland, TX Plano, TX San Angelo, TX � • m Maxey Community Center event Source: City of Lubbock Cost Recovery Cost recovery helps to assess the LPARD's effectiveness in reducing dependence on tax monies by analyzing revenue as a percentage of operating expenditures. A higher percentage signifies an agency's effectiveness in recovering some costs of delivering parks and recreation services to the community. Cost recovery for the regional comparison communities was calculated based off fiscal year 2021-2022. Lubbock's cost recovery ratio, seven percent in FY 2021, is substantially lower than the median value for regional comparison communities (refer to Figure 2.6, Cost Recovery for Regional Comparison Communities). In other words, the LPARD recovers only a small percent of its operating costs through revenue generation, which barely helps to reduce the Department's dependence on the General Fund (see previous section for further details regarding reliance on the General Fund). Though $aoo some regional communities have similar cost recovery percentages to Lubbock, many recover more than a third of their expenses. Figure 2.6, Cost Recovery for Regional Comparison Communities Median: 32% Lubbock, TX Abilene, TX Amarillo, TX Brownsville, TX Corpus Christi, TX Denton, TX Frisco, TX Garland, TX Grand Prairie, TX Irving, TX Laredo, TX McKinney, TX Midland, TX Plano, TX San Angelo, TX • 10% 6W 80% 100 4 AF CWZi] Staffing LPARD has 87 FTE positions, which include 62 park maintenance positions,10 community recreation positions, four park development positions, three outdoor recreation positions, two at Lake Alan Henry, and six cemetery -related positions. The number of FTE positions for regional comparison communities ranges from 48 to 391 positions. The median number of FTE positions for regional comparison communities is 168 (refer to Figure 2.7, Full-time Equivalent Positions for Regional Comparison Communities). In summary, the LPARD is significantly understaffed compared to regional communities. Stubbs Park Source: Halff Associates Figure 2.7, Full-time Equivalent Positions for Regional Comparison Communities Median:168 Lubbock, TX Abilene, TX Amarillo, TX Brownsville, TX Corpus Christi, TX Denton, TX Frisco, TX Garland, TX Grand Prairie, TX Irving, TX Laredo, TX McKinney, TX Midland, TX Plano, TX San Angelo, TX 2.39 400 FTE per 10,000 Residents Analyzing parks and recreation staffing by population reveals that Lubbock has 2.2 full-time equivalent staff for every 10,000 residents, which is less than the median number of FTE positions per 10,000 residents for regional comparison communities (Figure 2.8, Full-time Equivalent Positions Per 10,000 Residents for Regional Comparison Communities). These values further confirm that the LPARD is not adequately staffed to meet its parkland maintenance and recreational programming needs, as a majority of regional communities have a higher FTE staff to residents ratio compared to Lubbock. Mae Simmons Park maintenance Source: Halff Associates Figure 2.8, Full-time Equivalent Positions per 10,000 Residents for Regional Comparison Communities Lubbock, TX Abilene, TX Amarillo, TX Brownsville, TX Corpus Christi, TX Denton, TX Frisco, TX Garland, TX Grand Prairie, TX Irving, TX Laredo, TX McKinney, TX Midland, TX Plano, TX San Angelo, TX Median: 8.1 20 Maintenance Staff A greater depth of data was collected from the regional comparison communities. This assessment broke down the number of full-time equivalent positions to determine how many were dedicated to park maintenance. Based on this, an analysis could be made determining whether the LPARD has enough maintenance staff to adequately maintain it's 3,472 acres of parkland compared to similar cities in Texas. The LPARD's lack of staffing resources is critical because the Department maintains a higher number of parkland acres than almost all regional communities (refer to Table 2.11, Regional Comparison Community Summary, on page 2.34). With 3,472 acres, Lubbock has more parkland than 11 of the 14 communities. But, LPARD also has fewer FTE positions than eight of the 14 regional communities. This combination of above average amount of parkland acres and below average number of maintenance FTE positions leads the LPARD to have the third highest parkland acre per maintenance FTE compared to the regional comparison communities. Compared to the median value of 26 acres per maintenance FTE, the LPARD's maintenance division staff are responsible for maintaining more than twice as much land on a per person basis, equating to approximately 62 acres maintained per FTE. LPARD maintains a higher amount of parkland than most regional comparison communities while also having significantly less maintenance staff Figure 2.9, Parkland Acres Per Maintenance Full-time Equivalent for Regional Comparison Communities Median: 26 Lubbock, TX 58 Abilene, TX Amarillo, TX - Brownsville, TX Corpus Christi, TX _ Denton, TX Frisco, TX - Garland, TX Grand Prairie, TX Irving, TX Laredo, TX McKinney, TX Midland, TX Plano, TX San Angelo, TX 0 120 140 160 80 Operations -Based Assessment Summary The operations -based assessment examines the LPARD's management operations to determine the adequacy of available funding for operating expenditures and reviews overall fiscal performance of revenue generation. The operations -based assessment compared the LPARD to other Parks and Recreation Departments in regional comparison communities across the state of Texas. Comparison communities are 14 selected communities located within Texas that have similar local context and cost of living indexes to Lubbock. The cost of living index is a standardization of the average cost of living in a city across the United States so that affordability can be compared regardless of context or region. It is worth noting that most of the comparison communities are smaller than Lubbock but have more relevant, local context. Findings from the above operations -based assessment was summarized in three categories: Operating Budget, Staffing, and Revenue. The metrics indicate that LPARD is underfunded, understaffed, and is not generating as much revenue compared to other communities. MIX Objective 1.2: Improve the ecological function and environmental character of Lubbock's parks. Lubbock's parks serve the valuable function of providing needed open space for the City's residents to partake in recreational opportunities. As importantly, the City's parks also provide needed space for stormwater collection, detention, and infiltration, by way of playa lakes, which are present in 25 of the City's 83 parks. As characterized in the City's Drainage Criteria Manual (2019), the lands composed of urban playas and the associated parks they are within are typically within the 100-year floodplain, the delineation of which often provides the basis for the area of the park (refer to Figure 2.10, Typical Playa Anatomy); and precludes any significant development within the park that cannot be periodically flooded. For these reasons it makes sense to continue to utilize playas and their floodplains as parks and open space. Of the 83 parks in Lubbock's system, 46 parks are classified as neighborhood parks. The total area of these parks amounts to 307.9 acres, which is approximately 6.7 acres per park. In comparison, Lubbock's 19 community parks average around 33 acres per park. While these acreages are generally consistent with NRPA classification standards, Lubbock's parks are still quite large. As a result, most parks consist of several acres of unprogrammed, largely unforested, yet mowed and irrigated, open space. Beyond serving the dual function of drainage and recreation, Lubbock's parks also provide some degree of urban cooling amidst the expanses of asphalt and concrete which compose the City's built environment. With the onset and acceleration of climate change there is increased likelihood that the Texas panhandle will experience longer periods of drought and more days with extremely high temperatures. From this perspective, Lubbock's parks will be increasingly important in providing densely shaded areas, in order to help cool the City. This environmental function can be significantly enhanced through the provision of improvements to parks' playas and urban forest canopy. These cooling improvements will make Lubbock's parks more comfortable, and as a result, more pleasurable places to be. Strategy 1.2.1: Enhance urban playa ecological function and visual character. Develop a program to restore and enhance the ecological functions of urban playas within the City's parks system. Of the more than 80,000 playa wetlands found in North America, roughly 23,000 are found in northwest Texas. Playa wetlands are ephemeral, clay -lined depressions ranging from a few acres to a couple of hundred acres in size and their inundation is solely dependent upon runoff from heavy rain events. When it rains, water filters through the cracks in the playa floor and enters the aquifer. As the playa's clay lining gets wet, these cracks swell and seal, cutting off access to the aquifer and allowing the shallow playas to remain temporarily full. Randall clay has an extremely high shrink -swell capacity When the water evaporates and drains, the cracks in the clay re -open and the cycle will repeat with the next rainfall' Healthy playas are important for recharging the Ogallala Aquifer. Playas filter and recharge as much as 95 percent of the water collected in the southern portion of the aquifer. Recharge occurs both through playa basins and along the perimeter (or annulus rings) of playas. The annulus zone is the area between the initial water surface and the 100-year flood plain. They also provide vital habitat to an array of resident and migrating wildlife. The Playa Lakes Region is second only to the Gulf Coast in providing habitat for wintering waterfowl in the Central Flyway. The most conspicuous species during winter are Canada Geese and Snow Geese. Recent estimates suggest that 300,000 geese are found in the Playa Lakes Region. Because of their role in recharging the Ogallala, the conservation of playas is as important to humans as it is to wildlife. Land use practices have greatly altered most of the playas in Texas, leading to permanent loss of functionality for many of these important wetlands.2 The greatest threat to playas is the indirect effect of poor farming and grazing 1 Richardson, Sarah, 2019. Playas: Refilling the Ogallala Aquifer? Texas Water Resources Institute. https://twri.tamu.edu/news/2019/february/playas-refill- ing-the-ogallala-aquifer/ 2 Texas Playa Conservation Initiative. Texan by Nature. https://texanbynature. org/projects/texas-playa-conservation-initiative/ 2.41 practices. Playas in croplands have suffered severe sedimentation as a result of soil erosion in adjacent croplands. Playas affected by sedimentation tend to be shallower and lose their capacity to hold water. In rangelands, the problem facing playas is over -grazing. Livestock allowed access to playa basins during the growing season often remove many of the seed producing plants that are preferred by waterfowl and other birds. In urban areas the playa basin can become clogged with fine sediment and other particulate matter that drains off of impervious surfaces such as building roofs, streets and parking lots. As the playa basin becomes less pervious water is retained for much longer periods of time. Playas which are inundated for long periods of time suffer from severe embankment erosion due to wind -driven wave action. Playa annulus zones are also eroded due to concentrated points of stormwater discharge in to the playa. In Lubbock's urban areas, stormwater runoff is collected and transmitted to the playa by way of long concrete culverts. The velocity of the stormwater drainage scours the annulus zone and results in deep trenches, often undermining the culverts due to the creation of subsurface cavities, which can be very dangerous for people, especially children, who can fall into the cavities and become trapped. There are several conservation practices which can benefit playa lakes. The most common is establishing native prairie buffers around the perimeter of playa basins. Buffers also provide nesting habitat for grassland birds and forage and cover for other prairie wildlife.3 The prairie vegetation used must be highly adaptable to periods of drought as well as periods of extreme moisture. Because Lubbock's climate can result in months when there is little to no rain, to support plant life the playa annulus zone would likely need to be irrigated. During storm events, when the playa is full, the vegetation must be able to withstand periodic inundation. Additionally, playa buffer treatment solutions must be able to survive periods of very strong winds and subsequent wave action. The following principles should guide restoration and management of Lubbock's urban playas: 1. Celebrate water as a precious resource. Protect both the quality and quantity of Lubbock's water resources. 2. Preserve natural drainage features and systems. Emulate hydrological systems and processes found in nature. Utilize low impact development (LID) strategies, tools, and techniques. 3. Restore groundwater dominated hydrology - base flow. The Ogallala is a precious resource of national significance. It must be protected, and its volume replenished. 3. Panhandle Playa Lakes. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. https://tpwd. Figure 2.10, Typical Playa Anatomy texas.gov/landwater/land/habitats/high plains/wetlands/playa.html 4.Avoid soil disruption and restore soil health. Vegetative buffers within a playa's annulus zone rely on organic matter in the soil, which provides nutrients and reduces soil compaction. Every attempt should be made to disrupt the playa basin as little as possible. 5. Avoid concentrated points of discharge. The concrete culverts used to collect and direct stormwater to the playa increases the velocity of stormwater which causes severe erosion within the playa; resulting in loss of organic material in the playa substrate. The culverts also create barriers to pedestrian circulation within the City's parks. 6. Capture and infiltrate stormwater runoff. Create drainage systems that capture stormwater runoff before it enters the playa, allows the energy within the water to dissipate, which, in turn, allows suspended sediment and particulate matter to settle out of the water. 7. Minimize impervious surfaces. Impervious surfaces increase stormwater velocity and decreases natural infiltration into the soil 8. Avoid soil compaction. Compaction promotes stormwater runoff and impedes infiltration and vegetation growth. 9. Restore playa ecosystems and biodiversity. Playas are extremely important geomorphological features within the landscape of the Llano Estacado and provide intermittent water resources which enables biodiversity. They must be protected. 10. Create opportunities for human interaction with playas. Beyond serving very a important drainage function, playas can also provide passive recreational value and enjoyment. The approach illustrated in Figure 2.11, Playa Restoration Program, depicts replacing concrete culverts with a system of forebays, which are vegetated detention basins that capture stormwater runoff before it enters the playa, allowing the energy in the stormwater to dissipate and the suspended sediment to settle out of the water. The stormwater is then directed laterally, out of the forebay, along channels which have been graded to run parallel with slope of the terrain, so the water can percolate into the soils outside of the playa, thus irrigating the prairie vegetation that has been planted in the playa's annulus zone. The design of the forebay will include a retention structural element for temporarily retaining and diverting the stormwater. The forebay can be designed to function as a vegetated rain garden. The top of the retention element should be at the same elevation as the crest of the berm which creates the lateral channels. Prepare the annulus zone soils and plant the annulus zone of the demonstration playa utilizing moisture tolerant native vegetation recommended by the partnering agencies and organizations identified in Strategy 1.2.2. To obtain native Texas shortgrass prairie seed stock, contact Native American Seed, Junction, Texas. Tel. No.: 1-800 728-4043; Email: info@seedsource.com. For more information about Texas shortgrass prairie restoration, refer to Strategy 5.1.1 (page 5.19). Set up a temporary irrigation system in order to propagate and establish the vegetation within the annulus zone. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Identify a park with a playa that can be used to demonstrate the playa restoration techniques illustrated in Figure 2.11. Utilize one concrete drainage culvert to demonstrate the technique. The demonstration site should have sufficient slope to grade -in the lateral channels. The concrete culvert does not necessarily have to be removed to demonstrate the proposed technique. The demonstration should be fairly free of vegetation and large trees in order to grade the lateral channels emanating from the forebay. Riparian Hydrology The figure below depicts the use of berms to funnel water into a riparian zone. This helps to improve water runoff, prevent erosion, naturally irrigate vegetation, and provide plantings with low to no required maintenance. 2.43 Ell, 211. LEGEND Q Park Boundary Park Trail ioo Year Flood Plain Soo Year Flood Plain Contour Line (2-feet) • Tree and Tree Canopy Park Lighting DI LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN r,e No,�n Clay Layer Client: City of Lubbock Annulus Zone Consultants: HalffAssociates, Inc. Data Sources: City of Lubbock, Texas: Texas Tech University: Vegetation Zone September2022 Berm Crest — — — Bottom of Swale / Flow Direction Soft 100ft 200ft. FIGURE 2.11, PLAYA RESTORATION PROGRAM 1 inch = 1oo feet (ft) 4 V Chanter 2 . Lubbock's Parks Strategy 1.2.2: Develop partnerships with third -party organizations to restore urban playas in Lubbock. Develop partnerships with allied organizations and agencies to develop the playa restoration program described in Strategy 1.2.1. Actions and Initiatives: For playa conservation technical assistance, contact: 1. Rachel Fern, PhD., Statewide Wetland Program Leader, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) T# 737 218-3955 2. Don Kahl with the TPWD,1702 Landmark Lane, Lubbock TX 79415; T# 806 475-1308 3. Texas Playa Conservation Initiative - Heather Johnson with the TPWD; T# 806 475-1308 4. Playa Lakes Joint Venture - Mike Carter, Joint Venture Coordinator; T# 303 926-0777 Playa restoration efforts in Borger, Texas Source: Texas Playa Conservation Initiative Strategy 1.2.3: Develop a vegetation enhancement and management program for Lubbock's parks. To promote the increased use of Lubbock's parks, develop a vegetation management program whereby more trees are planted in order to create more shaded areas within the City's parks, particularly on the east side of Lubbock. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Develop tree planting plans for each of Lubbock's parks. 2. Improve user comfort through planting groves of trees in parks to serve as windbreaks. 3. Re-evaluate the current locations of park pavilions, picnic tables and park benches and relocate as necessary so the facilities are within shaded areas of the park. 4. Partner with Texas Tech University's (TTU) School of Engineering to engage students to plant trees in Lubbock's parks. The principal point of contact at the TTU School of Engineering is George Spoth, Executive Associate Dean - International programs — T# 806 834-0403 1 Email: george.spoth@ttu.edu 5. Work with the Lubbock Memorial Arboretum Foundation to promote the City's 'Tree City USA' designation and ensure that park enhancements contribute to fulfilling the requirements of designation. 6. Align the City's Tree City USA Community Forestry Program and associated capital resources with planting additional trees in the City's parks. 7. Promote the planting of trees in City parks on Arbor Day. Ensure that the species of trees planted is consistent with tree species identified within the City's Code of Ordinances, Sec.16.02.002 Recommended and prohibited street tree species. 8. Pursue technical and capital resources through the USDA Forest Service' Urban and Community Forestry Program, as administered by the Texas A&M Forest Service (https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/). 9. Contact the Texas A&M Forest Service's West Texas Nursery in Idalou, Texas to determine the availability of trees for planting in the City's parks (call #806 892- 3572). 10. Establish an, "Adopt -a -Tree;' public -private partnership program, where by private and other third -party entities maintain specific trees and/or groves of trees in the City's parks. 11. Pursue corporate sponsorships for the purchase and planting of trees in the City's parks. 12. Continue to convene meetings of the LPARD's Community Forestry Task Force. Strategy 1.2.4: Utilize micro -detention techniques when planting vegetation in parks. As depicted in Figure 2.12, Micro -detention Technique, when planting groves of trees and massings of shrubs, excavate and grade a modest depression in the general area where the trees and shrubs will be planted. This will enable rainwater to be captured and collected in the newly planted areas. Actions and Initiatives: 1. When working with community groups in planting groves of trees and shrub massings, prepare the depressed planting areas prior to planting. Do not create bowls around the base of the newly planted trees. After planting, stabilize the area with grass seed or mulch, as appropriate. 2. Revise the City of Lubbock's Minimum Design Standards and Specifications (May 01, 2020) to include micro -detention techniques for landscape enhancements in parks and around public facilities. Landscaped detention ponds add visual appeal without the need for irrigation. Source: susdrain.org Micro -detention area with trees and other plantings Source: Construction EcoServices Trees surrounding stormwater detention pond. Source: Laramie County, Wyoming Filtration rate.- _ .y W� _ V Exceedence level 0 N Graphic depicting a micro -detention pond Source: Innovyze Resource Center Figure 2.12, Micro -detention Technique Incremental depressions surrounding vegetation draws water towards �'�-•'-^^, reducing the or irrigation *Contour lines depict a 2 inch change in elevation. M K O Strategy 1.2.5: Incorporate low impact development techniques into all parks and City -owned and maintained facilities. The term low impact development (LID) refers to green infrastructure systems and practices that use or mimic natural hydrological processes that enable stormwater to infiltrate permeable soils in order to clean and protect water quality and replenish groundwater tables. LID principles complement, and sometimes replace, traditional stormwater management systems, which typically emphasize the transmission of stormwater off - site with grey infrastructure (curbs, pipes, ditches). By allowing rain to soak into the ground where it falls, there are fewer opportunities for water to collect pollutants and reach nearby bodies of water. Basic principles of LID include reducing impervious surfaces to allow water to soak into the ground where it lands, using natural systems to promote the infiltration of water, and protecting ecologically important areas within proposed developments. Examples of LID or green infrastructure include vegetated swales, permeable pavement applications, rain gardens, and other micro -detention techniques (as described in Strategy 1.2.4). LID practices have been proven to be attractive amenities to neighborhoods and communities and may reduce overall costs for stormwater management. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Revise the City of Lubbock's Minimum Design Standards and Specifications (May 01, 2020) to include low impact development techniques for parking lots, drainage corridors, and other areas where applicable. Vegetated swale along a residential street in Houston, Texas. Source: Houston Builders' Association Parking lot bioretention area featuring trees and other small plants to collect rain water. Source: California Stormwater Quality Association Memorial Park bioswale, Houston, Texas 2.47 Source: HalffAssociates Parking lot bioretention area, Dallas, Texas Source: Texas A&M Agri Life Extension Roadway bioretention area Source: Clean Water Nashville Strategy 1.2.6: Incorporate educational displays and signage to explain the ecological functions of park elements. Several of the strategies and recommended actions within the Master Plan have to do with enhancing the visual character and improving the ecological function of elements within Lubbock's parks (e.g., playas) and semi -natural open space areas, such as the Canyon Lakes. The implementation of these recommendations presents an opportunity to educate the public about the ecological value of the improvement, from an ecosystem services standpoint; through developing interpretive signage which can explain the natural hydrological function of playa lakes, for example, or how the implementation of low impact development strategies, tools, and techniques helps to restore the predevelopment hydrological function and capacity of a site. Explaining the "why" behind these kinds of landscape sitework improvements will elicit people's support for a project; making it easier to explain and defend similar projects in the future. Interpreting - telling the story - about the importance of these ecological resources helps people to better understand the world around them. Actions and Initiatives: 1. As projects near completion, hire an interpretive planner to prepare infographics through which to interpret how improvements relate to overall ecological systems. Martial Cottle Park informational signage Source: City of San Jose, California 2. Prepare infographics and interpretive signage for the following landscape enhancements: - Playa restoration (Strategy 1.2.1) - Low impact development techniques (Strategy 1.2.5) - Micro -detention techniques (Strategy 1.2.4) - Texas Shortgrass Prairie restoration, in the Canyon Lakes (Strategy 5.1.1) as well as in municipal parks) - Canyon Lakes structural improvements (Strategy 5.1.4) - Embankment stabilization utilizing bioengineering techniques (Strategy 5.1.5) - Improving the ecological function of stormwater outfalls (Strategy 5.1.6) - Promoting the TPWD's Panhandle Plains Wildlife Trail (Strategy 5.4.3) - Benefits of adventure playgrounds (Strategy 5.4.5) C7 QM Strategy 1.2.7: Implement prairie enhancements to some of Lubbock's parks. As with proposed landscape sitework improvements within the Canyon Lakes (refer to Strategy 5.1.1, page 5.19), there is an opportunity to enhance many of Lubbock's parks, so they emulate the natural prairie landscape character of the Llano Estacado. It is recommended that expanses of mowed lawn in some parks are allowed to revert back to a more "natural" character, to emulate the character of a Texas shortgrass prairie (refer to Figure 2.13, Higginbotham Park Proposed Landscape Enhancement Program. These areas should be seeded with prairie grass seed types recommended by Native American Seed (Tel. No.: 1-800-728-4043). Actions and Initiatives: 1. Identify a park that could be used to demonstrate a new prairie aesthetic, utilizing perennials, forbs, and grasses native to the Llano Estacado. 2. Grade the new prairie areas to capture and collect stormwater runoff. As summarized in Strategy 1.2.4, utilize micro -detention techniques to naturally irrigate native and indigenous plantings. Hillside Arboretum trail, Mesquite, Nevada Source: VisitMesquite.com Canopy trail of mesquite trees Source: gardeningthespanishway.com 2.49 Riparian vegetation Source: HalffAssociates Memorial Park prairie trail, Houston, Texas Source: Halff Associates Memorial Park Eastern Glades, Houston, Texas Source: Halff Associates Eastern Glades boardwalk, Houston, Texas Source: Halff Associates Memorial Park prairie trail, Houston, Texas Source: HalffAssociates Park visitors enjoying open green space in Memorial Park, Houston, Texas Source: Halff Associates Ift ANZ! a L Allo tiSt ci I'O r,- r— f unu� ,\ t O o r sc' � Ff 0 �..� o0 Oo ram IlGWII� � � LEGEND Existing Utility Lines LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN Client: City Lubbock Consultants:: Halff Associates, Inc. 0 Park Boundary ExistingPark k Til ��Contour Lines i ft.) Existing Playa Lake Proposed Prairie Trails Proposed BoardWaLk Data Sources: City of Lubbock, Texas September2022 (Estimated Average Water Line) Proposed Shortgrass Prairie FIGURE 2.13, HIGGINBOTHAM PARK PLayground FaLL Surface Existing Maintenance and Utility Building Proposed High Water Existing Tree and Tree Canopy PROPOSED LANDSCAPE Riparian Vegetation 0 Open Space E]0 Existing RecreationaL FaciLity ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM 50 ft 150 ft 250 ft rwe rvonn z Inch -z5o ft. Proposed Tree Canopy QD Existing Restroom Facility p py Q Existing Parking Conditions -based Assessment What is a Conditions Assessment? The condition of existing parks, recreation facilities, buildings, equipment, and other parkland improvements is an integral component to analyzing a park system's performance. The quality, appearance, and maintenance of the park system contributes to the image of the community and the perception of its livability. It is, therefore, important forthe City of Lubbock to maintain the community's parkland and facilities. The Park Conditions Assessment helps determine the current condition of parks and facilities; provides an assessment for the need for repairs, upgrades, and improvements; and helps determine whether the parkland and facilities in the community's park system are maintained in a condition that is suitable forfrequent and safe use. Figure 2.14, Scoring Methodology 0 Hazard Risk • Unsafe, Unfit for use Not Functioning • Non -Compliant Accessibility • Major Plant Health Issue • Not -Performing or Failed Design or System • Unacceptable Aesthetic • Restoration, Removal, Replacement Required Restoration, Removal, Replacement Required 1 2 Methodology The Park Conditions Assessment measures and ranks the condition of parkland grounds and facilities based on a visual assessment of park properties. The assessment methodology ranks results based on composite scores of assessment categories for each park. Assessment categories include turf; plantings and trees; irrigation; parking; sidewalks and trails; basketball nets and playing surfaces; tennis courts, fencing, and nets; park accessibility; park amenities; play equipment; buildings, shelters, and pavilions; playing fields and equipment; signage; fencing; and lighting. The scores for each facility or improvement range is from zero (0) to four (4), with zero representing the improvements that are in bad condition and therefore warrant replacement, rehabilitation, or reconstruction. A ranking of four is for those buildings, facilities, and/or improvements that are in excellent or new condition (refer to Figure 2.14, Scoring Methodology). Condition Assessment Scoring The Lubbock Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan Park Conditions Assessment was carried out by Texas Tech University Department of Landscape Architecture students. The two -semester assessment had students perform on -site visits to each park and complete a scoring assessment for each park element and material condition. The on -site findings were compiled into a series of dashboards created by Department of Landscape Architecture, detailed on the facing page. 3 n Concern High for... Concern Moderate for... Concern Low for... No Low for... • Safety, Use, • Safety, Use, • Safety, Use, • Safety, Use, Function Function Function Function • Accessibility • Accessibility • Accessibility • Accessibility • Plant Health Plant Health • Plant Health Plant Health • Performance • Performance • Performance • Performance of Design or of Design or of Design or of Design or System System System System • Aesthetics • Aesthetics • Aesthetics • Aesthetics • Major Repair Moderate Repair • Minor Repair No repair Required to Required to Required required return to return to • Typical and • Prescribed • Typical and • Typical and Prescribed Maintenance Prescribed Prescribed Maintenance Maintenance Maintenance Major Repair Required Moderate Repair Minor Repair Required No repair required to return to Typical Required to return to to return to Prescribed and Prescribed Typical and Prescribed Typical and Prescribed Maintenance Maintenance Maintenance Maintenance 2.51 Park Elements Scored in the Parks Conditions Assessment Walk Path Concrete or gravel paved / Trail pedestrian or cyclist Route paths Toilets and private Restroom maternity facility buildings Paved and unpaved Parking dedicated parking Lot locations internal to Darks Park name signage, Signage safety signage, and wayfinding signage = A concrete channel Drain Inlet connecting a drain and water run-off source Water A stand-alone or restroom located Fountain drinking fountain Waste / Covered or uncovered Trash trash cans including Recycl/ e dumpster locations Bench Wood or metal stand alone seating locations �"MgiWA7tii'�' Picnic table style seating Table often under shade -.r structures A perminent charcol grill, _ Grill barbeque,orsmoker facility Assessment Dashboards Of the 74 parks assessed, the following 6 parks (one per City Council district) have been used to illustrate the various dashboards available. The analysis dashboards help analyze and illustrate a parkland materials, conditions, and quantities of the park elements therein. The six park examples, on the following pages, include one regional park (Clapp) and five community parks (Carlisle, Maxey, Miller, Hoel, and Higginbotham). The dashboards depict the qualities, areas, and conditions of park elements and materials. A set of rectangle diagrams depicts the percentage of area each element or materials covers in a park. A series of maps demonstrates the location and distribution of park conditions. Finally, a set of GIS dashboards was created to help assess park water levels and flooding conditions, along with the conditions of drainage inlets / culverts. 1 A. M. Leftwich Park 2 A.B. Davis Park 3 Alex & Verna Cooke Park 4 Andrews, Clifford Park 5 Aztlan Park 6 Barbara Hinojosa Park 7 Berl Huffman Athletic Complex 2.8 3 2 2 2 3 3 3 2 2 1 1 2 2 3 3 1.5 2 3 2 3 3 2 3 3 2 2 3 3 2.2 2 2.3 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 2 2 2 3 2 3 2.3 2 3 3 1.9 1.7 2 2 2 2 3 2 3 2 3.1 3 2.5 2.4 2 3 1.8 2 3 1.8 2 8 Berry Park 3 3 2 2 3 2 3 2.5 2 2 2 2 9 Bill And Ann Miller Park 3 2 2 2 3 2 2 1.9 2 2 3 10 Bill Mcalister Park 2.7 3 3 2.1 2.11 2 3 2.31 3 1 1.9 1.3 1 21 2.5 11 Bill Rodgers Park 12 Booker T. Washington Park 13 Bryan Kastman Park 14 Buddy And Maria Elena Holly Plaza 15 Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center 16 Buster Long Park 17 C. W. Ratliff Park 3 3 2 2 3 2 3 3 2 21 1 1.3 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 3 2 2.2 3 2 3 3 2 3 2 2 2 3 2 3 2 2 2 3 3 2 2 2 3 2 2 2 2 2.5 3 2 2 3 2 3 2 3 3 2 2 18 Charles E. Maedgen Park 19 Charles Guy Park 3 3 2 3 2 3 2 3 3 2 2 3 3 3 2 2 3 3 2 3 2.5 2 2 20 Clayton Carter Park 21 Copper Rawlings Park 31 1 1 2 3 3 2 2 3 2 3 2 3 3 2 1 1 2 1 1 22 David Casey Park 23 Dr. Armando Duran Park 24 Dr. Charles F. Wagner Park 25 Earl Crow Park 26 Ernest Butler Park 27 Frank Higginbotham Park 28 Frank Wheelock Park 29 Gateway Plaza 30 George Mahon Park 3 2 1 2 3 3 1 2.5 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 2 3 2 3 2.2 2 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 2 3 2.5 2 2 3 3 2 3 2 2 1 3 2 2 2 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2.8 3 1.5 3 2.2 2 3 2 2 2 3 2 2 31 3 2 2 3 3 2 3 3 2 2.5 3 3 2 3 3 3 2.5 2 1 31 George W.Dupree Park 32 George Woods Park 3 3 2 2 3 3 2. 2 2 1.7 2 2 3 1.8 3 2 2 1 1.5 2 33 Gladys Sims Park _ 34 Guadalupe Park 3 2 2 2 3 3 3 2.3 2 3 2 3 2 2 3 2 3 3 1.9 35 Henry Huneke Park 36 J. B. Maxey Park 3 3 2.5 2 2 3 2 2.2 2 2.5 2 1.5 2 3 2 1 3 3 2.6 2 2.3 2 37 J.A. Chatman Park 38 Jack & Mary Nell Strong Park 39 Jack Lewis Park 40 Jan Jennings Park 41 Judge Walter Davies Park 42 K.N. Clapp Park 43 Lakewood Park 44 Larry Jack Stevens Park _ 45 Leroy Elmore Park 3 3 2 2 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 2. 2 3 3 2.2 2 3 2 3 2.5 2 2 3 2 2 1 2 3 3 2 2 3 3 2 2 1 1 2 3 2 2 2 3 2 3 2 2.2 2.6 2.5 2 2 2 3 2.6 2 3 3 2.2 2 1.2 3 2 2 3 2 1 3 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 21 2 2 2. 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 2 3 31 2 46 Lou Stubbs Park 47 Lt. Col. George Andrews Davis Jr. Remote Control Airport 48 Lubbock Tornado Memorial 49 M.C. Overton Park 50 Mccrummen Park 51 Mose Hood Park 52 N. B. Mccullough Park 53 Naomi Reagan Park 3 3 2 3 2 3 2 2.5 3 2 1 2 2 2.3 2 2.5 2 2 3.5 4 3 3 2.3 3 2 2 3 3 2.5 2 2 2.9 3 2.5 3 2 3 2 2 2.6 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1.9 2 2 2 2.8 3 3 2.3 2.8 3 2 3 2 3 2.5 2 2 3 2 2 1 2 3 3 2 2 2 3 54 O.D. Hollins Park 55 O.W. Ribble Park 3 3 2 2 3 3 3 2 1 1 2 3 3 2 1.9 2 3 3 2 3 2 2 1 1 2 56 PaRotine Park 57 Phil Hoel Park 3 2 3 2 3 2 3 2.5 1 2 3 2 3 3 2 1 58 Preston Smith Park 59 Randy Neu ebauerPark 3 2 2 3 2 3 2 2 1 2 2 3 2 3 3 60 Remington Park 61 Richard Lopez Park 3 62 Rollie Burns Park 3 63 Roy Furr - Pioneer Park 3 64 Stumpy Hamilton Park 3 65 Tech Terrace Park 2.8 66 Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex 3 67 Tim Cole Memorial 2.7 68 Underwood Park 3 69 W.A. Carlisle Park 3 70 Whisperwood Median 3 71 Will Sedberry Park 3 72 Willie Lusk Park 2.5 Per Element Averages 2.9 2 3 2 3 2 2 3 2 3 2.2 2 2 3 3 2 3 2 3 2.7 2 2 2 2.6 2 3 3 2 3 2 2 2 2 3 2.5 2 2 3 3 2.5 1.9 2 3 2.2 2 3 1 2 3 2 1 2 3 2 2 1 2 2 3 2.2 3 2 3 2 3 2.3 2 2 3 2 2 3 2 3 2.3 3 2 1 2 2 2.3 3 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 2 3 2 2.2 2.0 2.9 2 3 3 3 1.9 2 1.9 1.7 1.7 1.91 2.5 2.7 2.0 3.0 .7 4.1 3.0 2.9 2.5 2.0 1.5 2.3 1.8 TBD* * * ' Gazebo / A large structure for * Pavilion gatherings of10+people * * Shade A small structure for * StYUCtUYe gatherings of 1 to 10 * people Play Playgrounds and Equipment excersise equiptment, Area including fall surfaces * Programmed or * Lawn unprogrammed open space, often cut -grass covered * Riparian vegetation along * Z_'_ . Natural water edges or low lying * Area areas, and tree canopy * cover * Maintained landscaped * Planting planting areas, often * Bed includes flowers and * manicured grasses * Dedicated soccer * Soccer field space, includes * Field turf, striping, and goal * conditions * Full or half-size paved * Basketball court, includes paving, * - - Court striping, post, and net conditions * Full or half-size paved * Tennis court, includes paving, * - Court striping, post, and net * conditions * Baseball Dedicated diamond / Softball field space includes turf, * Diamond dugout, and striping * conditions * Sand or concerete court, * Volleyball includes paving, sand, * - Court edging, post, and net * conditions * For more information about the various dashboards * depicted, refer to Appendix L (Appendix L, Figures L.32 * * through L.37). * * * * 'T78 TEXAS TECH * UNIVERSITY® * Department of * * Landscape Architecture- * * * To be revised by Texas Tech in the spring semester of 2023 TBD* Carlisle Park By Element Benches 4 Restrooms a Tables 7�C 7 ® Gazebo / Pavilions Play Equipment Areas 3 Basketball Courts 1 Volleyball Courts 1 Tennis Courts 1 Baseball Diamonds ° Softball ° ° Diamonds Soccer Fields IMF q Multi -Sports sit �� Courts Carlisle Park Area 197.13K Area SQFT 4.5 h e�,, %Lies Carlisle Park By Materials (1) Concrete Metal Plant - Bed Plant - Turf Grass Mixed Rubber Surface Sand Wood Carlisle Park By Element Material / Element Condition by Area 6.74K (3.42%) 2 •3 •1 Carlisle Park By Materials (2) 184.26 K Carlisle Park (City Council District 1) Conditions Assessment Carlisle Park By Element 4.5 acres, or 85 percent, of Carlisle Park is lawn, while trails consist of 14,940 square feet (sq.ft.), or 7.0 percent, of Carlisle Park. Sports courts at Carlisle Park include a 6,400 sq.ft. tennis court, 2,400 sq.ft. volleyball court, and a 2,000 sq.ft basketball court, together accounting for 5.5 percent of the total parkland area. Carlisle park has three play equipment areas totaling 2,800 sq.ft. and a 2,200 sq.ft. picnic area with picnic tables. Carlisle Park by Materials As depicted in Carlisle Park By Materials (1) and Carlisle Park By Materials (2), 94 percent of Carlisle Park consist of planting materials such as turf grass and plant beds. Other common materials include concrete, mainly due to walking trails and ball courts. and rubber surfaces, due to the three play equipment areas. Material / Element Condition by Area Over 95 percent of the materials / elements in Carlisle Park are ranked as 'good', in need of moderate repairs. A notable 6.7 percent of park materials / elements are ranked as 'poor' condition and in need or replacement and major repairs. No facilities in Carlisle Park scored a 0 or 4. Carlisle Park Conditions Score by Element A majority of elements in Carlisle Park scored a 2, ranked as 'fair; or a 3, ranked as 'good: Passive facilities such as benches, tables, grills, and walking trails scored the best, as either'fair or'good: The lowest scoring elements, rated a 1, 'poor.' or 2, 'fair; are sports courts and fields, such as the basketball court and volleyball court, with the tennis court scoring the lowest due to net conditions and cracked pavement. Carlisle Park Conditions Score By Element 2.53 Carlisle Park Aerial Imagery Carlisle Park Elements Carlisle Park Element and Material Conditions Carlisle Park Play Equipment Areas The play equipment areas at Carlisle Park scored a 2.3, 'fair; overall. A majority of the play equipment is in fair condition, and the shade structures over the playgrounds are in good condition. The rubberfall surface surrounding play facilities are in poor conditions and may be unsafe due to age, erosion, and uneven surfacing. X.: Carlisle Park Picnic Areas Carlisle Park has one pavilion and three picnic areas. The pavilion is in fair condition, although vandalism has been observed. The seven picnic tables are scored a 2, 'fair; due to rusting and age. Cement bases at the picnic areas are in good condition. FE-1 7 2.54 Clapp Park By Element Benches 51 ® Restrooms 6 Tables 2 Gazebo / ® Pavilions Play Equipment Areas 1 Basketball Courts 1 Volleyball Courts 1 Tennis Courts 2 Baseball Diamonds 1 Softball ° Diamonds ❑ ❑ :==, Soccer Fields �..,� Multi -Sports �,� Courts oil �C►R Clapp Park Area 4.51 M Area SQFT 103.5 Area Acres Clapp Park By Materials (1) Asphalt Brick Concrete Gravel Gravel Crushed Concrete Crushed Plant - Adapted 64 Plant - Bed Plant - Turf Grass Mixed Plant - Turf Grass Sports Field Plastic Rubber Surface Soil Water - Non Potable Water - Potable Clapp Park By Element Material / Element Condition by Area 0.11 M (2.39%) 0.93 M (20.8%) — 2 03 •1 3.45M (76.81 %) --J Clapp Park By Materials (2) Clapp Park (City Council District 2) Conditions Assessment Clapp Park By Element 69.2 Acres, or 66 percent, of Clapp Park is lawn, while natural areas consist of 15.7 acres, or 15 percent, of Clapp Park. The largest non -landscape elements in Clapp Park include 4.1 acres of parking, 2.6 acres of baseball fields,1.8 acres of walking paths, and 1.4 acres of dog park. Clapp park has over 51 benches, 6 restrooms, and five gazebo/pavilion gathering spaces. Clapp Park by Materials As depicted in Clapp Park By Materials (1) and Clapp Park By Materials (2), 85 percent of Clapp Park consist of planting materials such as turf grass and plant beds. Other common matereals include asphalt, mainly due to the parking lots, non potable water, mainly due to the playa lake, and concrete, due to the walking paths through the park. Material / Element Condition by Area Over 75 percent of the materials / elements in Clapp Park are ranked as 'fair; in need of moderate repair. A notable 20 percent of park materials / elements are ranked as 'good' condition. No facilities in Clapp Park scored a zero. Clapp Park Conditions Score by Element A majority of elements in Clapp Park scored a two, ranked as'fair.' Benches, tables, pavilions, and restrooms scored the best, as either 'fair' or'good: Clapp Park Conditions Score By Element 1i I 2.55 Clapp Park Water Levels JI 14ti''i: l��4—'AYi, Yi i1i—T.rirtlt^', Y r>•t �1^—I A1-i•!Yt'i �. LW�:'-r—i�'� P Clapp Water Levels The playa at Clapp Park has varying water elevation of up to 665 feet from the low water line to high water line. The low water line depicts the lowest historical level the playa has reached, while the high water line is the highest level the water has reached. Park facilities are not placed in any historic flood zone, although the historic high water line does get within ten feet of the Safety City fence line and the utility zone on the northeast corner of the site. Clapp Park Elements `� ��=e�'iR�i�. • �i�IT�ir ip l �` !''il � �--71 t R" 2 Clapp Park Elements A majority of park elements are placed in the northwest and southeast corners of the park. Both corners of the park have asphalt paved parking facilities and signage. Clapp Park Element and Material OAS Aft o. .I JA"14 . Clapp Park Conditions A majority of elements and matereals at Clapp Park are ranked as 1, 'poor' conditon, or as 2, 'fair' condition. A majority of turf grass at Clapp Park is ranked a 'fair' and in need or moderate improvements. Plant beds and landscaping around Hodges Community Center and the Lubbock Memorial Arboretum scored a 1, 'poor' condition, noting poor quality of plant health, poor grass conditions, poor and planter material conditions. n J 0 2.56 Maxey Park By Element 13 Benches ® 2 Restrooms 5 Tables Gazebo / Pavilions la Play Equipment Areas 1 Basketball Courts 1 Volleyball Courts Tennis Courts ° Baseball Diamonds ° ° Softball ❑ Diamonds 13 Soccer Fields `SI' Multi -Sports Ijl �`►� Courts Maxey Park Area 3.04M Area SQFT 69.7 Area Acres Maxey Park By Materials (1) Asphalt Brick I Concrete Gravel Gravel Crushed Concrete Crushed Plant - Adapted Plant - Bed Plant - Turf Grass Mixed Plant - Turf Grass Sports Field Plastic Rubber Surface Soil Water - Non Potable Water - Potable n.•• Maxey Park By Element Material / Element Condition by Area 1.29M (42.48%) 2 •3 •1 1.74M (57.24%) Maxey Park By Materials (2) Maxey Park (City Council District 3) Conditions Assessment Maxey Park By Element 38.8 acres, or 55 percent, of Maxey Park is lawn, while water consist of 20 acres, or 28 percent, of Maxey Park. The largest non -landscape elements in Clapp Park include 2.1 acres of parking, 2.4 acres of walking paths,1 acre of drain inlets / culverts, and 0.5 acres each of pool and play equipment areas. Clapp Park has over 13 benches, 5 play equipment areas, 2 restrooms, and four baseball diamonds. Maxey Park by Materials As depicted in Maxey Park By Materials (1) and Maxey Park By Materials (2), 60 percent of Maxey Park consist of permeable surfaces such as turf grass and plant beds. 8 percent of Maxey Park consists of impermeable surfaces such as concrete and asphalt. Material / Element Condition by Area Over 57 percent of the materials / elements in Maxey Park are ranked as 'good, in need of minor repair and typical maintenance. 42 percent of park materials / elements are ranked as 'fair' condition. No facilities in Clapp Park scored a 0 or 4. Maxey Park Conditions Score by Element A majority of elements in Maxey Park scored between a two, ranked as 'fair; and three, ranked as 'good'. Benches, shade structures and play equipment areas scored the best, while lowest scoring elements include drain inlets / culverts, restrooms, and waste receptacles. Sports facilities scored between a 2.3 and 2, in need of moderate repairs. Walking trails scored a 2.2, mainly due to uneven transitions of paving and edge damage due water run off and playa erosion. Maxey Park Conditions Score By Element 36 J.B. Maxey Park 2.2 2 2.5 2 1.5 — 2 3 2 — — 3 3 2.6 — — — 2 — 2.3 2 2.3 2.57 Maxey Park Water Levels �.I Low-water Line ,� �4 iNt a** Average Water Line High-water Line �- Maxey Park Water Levels and Drainage The playa at Maxey Park has varying water elevation of up to 90 feet from the low water line to high water line. Based on the high water line, a large portion of the park has been underwater during heavy rain events.13 drain inlets / culverts cross through Maxey park, a large number compared to other parks. A majority of drains are in fair condition. Although, erosion around and under cement culverts at lower elevations towards the playa pose a major safety concern (fall, trip, or drowning) for park goers. Maxey Park Elements ., 011, INT-7, VIR � n NW-Vala'Al: .1441 *!.Wit2u - Nw�*Lai, Maxey Park Element and Material Conditions Maxey Park Sports Facility Conditions Sports facilities at Maxey PArk scored a 2, 'fair' condition. Fences and netting needs minor repairs, but does not pose any safety concerns. Paving, turf, and diamond field dirt may need minor improvements. Grass strips separating parking lots and sports fields has seen damage due to pedestrian activity. Maxey Park Equipment, Picnic Areas, and Access A majority of park elements are placed in the east and south side of Maxey Park. Play equipment scored a 2, 'fair' condition, noting minor needed repairs and missing fall surfacing. Picnic areas and pavilions scored a 2, 'fair' condition. Maxey park also has many corner intersection locations with no pedestrian sidewalk connectivity. r I 2.58 Miller Park By Element 4 Benches ® Restrooms Tables ® Gazebo / Pavilions Pay Equipment Areas 1 Basketball Courts 0 1 Volleyball Courts Tennis Courts Baseball ❑ Diamonds ❑ ❑ ❑ Softball ❑ Diamonds �•�� Soccer Fields i/J-)- 0"0 Multi -Sports Ij/ BOO Courts Miller Park Area 1.65M Area SQFT 38.0 Area Acres Miller Park By Materials (1) Brick Concrete Metal Plant - Turf Grass Mixed Plastic Rubber - Surface Sand Water - Non Potable Miller Park By Element Material / Element Condition by Area 0.06M (3.57%) — 2 �3 •1 Miller Park By Materials (2) 1.59M (96.31 %) Miller Park (City Council District 4) Conditions Assessment Miller Park By Element 31.0 Acres, or 81 percent, of Miller Park is lawn, while natural areas consist of 15.7 acres. The largest non - elements in Clapp Park include 1.2 acres walking paths, and 0.2 acres of play equipment area. Miller park also has 1 basketball court and 1 volleyball court. Miller Park by Materials As depicted in Miller Park By Materials (1) and Miller Park By Materials (2), a majority of Miller park is turf grass. Compared to other six parks, that include a playa lake, demonstrated in this Parks Conditions Assessment, Miller Park has the largest ratio of lawn to water, with a majority of the park comprising unprogrammed open space. Material / Element Condition by Area A majority of elements at Miller park rank as 2, 'fair' condition, or 3, 'good' condition. Pavilions, benches, and trails scored a 3, noting minimal cement staining and regular maintenance needed. Utilities were observed to have ageing issues with unmarked sunken -in water pump lids and eroded metal/wood along the edge of maintenance sheds. Tables, grills, and waste receptacles were scored a 2, 'fair; noting rusting at the bases of the elements. Miller Park Conditions Score By Element 9 Bill And Ann Miller Park 3 — — 2 2 — 2 3 2 2 3 — 1.9 2 — — — 2 — — 3 2.3 2.59 I; r•,,— 4 ,WTI VAI ` •a Low-water Line Average Water Line .rIALAKa.' . ✓wry 7rr i. y re Miller Park Water Levels and Drainage As previously stated, Miller park has the largest amount of lawn open space relative to the size of the parks playa lake. At high water events the park is minimaly effected. Only the east side and small portions of the south side of the playa flood. The plays edge is mostly unvegetated and lined with a dirt perimeter. As low water events a hard drop off occurs near the average water line of the playa. .Miller Park Elements -t Miller Park Connectivity Miller Park has good internal circulation with walking trails, but limited external connectivity. Visitors can access the park from two locations, first along 74th Street and secondly along Memphis Avenue. Construction and connectivity limitations are mainly due to large fan drains at each street intersection along the parks perimeter. Miller Park Element and Material Conditions J€ 1 1ak'+ Clapp Park Sports Facilities Miller park has one basketball court and one cement volleyball court. The volleyball court, pictured above, scored a 3, noting good net conditions, even and uncracked pavement, and good lighting conditions. The basketball court had similar conditions with good paving and netting, but scored a two due to uneven edge treatments. FE-1 9 d similar condito L] 2.60 Hoel Park By Element 9 Benches 2 Restrooms 9 Tables e6 Gazebo / Pavilions Play Equipment Areas Basketball Courts Volleyball Courts 2 Tennis Courts Baseball ❑ Diamonds ❑ Softball ❑ Diamonds Soccer Fields 4m- Multi -Sports `�1 Courts Hoel Park Area 488.24K Area SQFT 11.2 Area Acres Hoel Park By Materials (1) Concrete Metal Plant - Material / Element Condition by Area Turf Grass Mixed 26.46K (5.42%) 2 Plastic 3 •1 Rubber- 440.26K (90.22%) Surface Water - Non Potable Wood Hoel Park By Materials (2) Hoel Park (City Council District 5) Conditions Assessment Hoel Park By Element 7.9 Acres, or 77 percent, of Hoel Park is lawn, while walking trails comprise 0.5 acres, or 5 percent of Hoe[ Park. Hoe[ Park is a neighborhood sized park with 2.4 acres of the total 11.2 acres comprising a playa lake and drain infrastructure. A majority of park elements in Hoel Park are passive, including 9 tables, 6 pavilions, and walking trails. Material / Element Condition by Area Over 90 percent of the materials / elements in Hoe[ Park are ranked as 'fair; in need of moderate repair. A notable 1 percent of park materials / elements are ranked as 1, 'poor' condition, or 0, 'Not Safe' condition: Of the six parks demonstrated in this Parks Conditions Assessment, Hoel Park has one of the only facilities scored as zero; the drainage inlets / culverts. Found on the west side of the site each inlet has seen substantial drainage damaged and weathering (further detailed in Hoel Park Water Levels, Drainage, and Playa. Although, not assessed in the Conditions Score table below, utility infrastructure was noted to have issues with weathering and water damage causing rust at electoral box bases and the soil surrounding exposed ground pipes/pumps to be unstable. Hoel Park Conditions Score By Element 57 Phil Hoel Park 3 2 3 2.5 1 — 2 3 — 2 3 — 3 2 — — — — 1 — — 2.3 2.61 Hoel Park Water Levels Hoel Park Elements Hoel Park Element and Material Conditions iLow-water Line Average Water Line High-water Line r&:_ = r S ,F W . w it ; ILW • W o ar- a-• , r� _r s n --A&. Hoel Park Water Levels, Drainage, and Playa Hoe[ Park is relativly flat compaired to other parks. At high water events discontiguous pockets of Hoel Park are flooded. A majoirty of the shoreline is eroded or damaged posing tripping and drowning hazards. Drainage inlets / culverts are severly eroded at the base of the cement; this should be remediated immedietly. Hoel park does have a ring trail and at -grade sidewalk drainage crossings, which helps to connect the north and south sides of the park. Hoel Park Water Damages A majority of park elements have seen damage from standing water, or insufficient drainage . Edges of trails are often lower than the surrounding lawn, creating erosive slopes and channels along park trails. In many cases standing water pools on top of sports courts and picnic pavilion cement bases. This has caused substantial damage to the tennis court in specific, scoring a 2, 'fair' condition. This has also caused damage to play equipment fall surfaces, although the equipment is in good condition. o � a . imwt_ i \x iA IL 2.62 Higginbotham Park By Element 4 Benches ® 6 Restrooms y� 1 Tables ® Gazebo / Pavilions Play Equipment Areas Bas/k'etball Courts 1 Volleyball Courts Tennis Courts Baseball ❑ Diamonds ° ° Softball ❑ Diamonds =�% Soccer Fields Ww `-R, � Multi -Sports 40 ���� Courts Higginbotham Park Area 1.03M Area SQFT 23.6 Area Acres Higginbotham Park By Materials (1) Asphalt Brick I Concrete Gravel Higginbotham Park By Element A Material / Element Condition by Area Crushed 0.01 M (0.67%) Metal 2 Plant - Turf Grass Mixed Plastic Sand Soil Water - Non Potable Wood •3 •1 L_ 1.02M (99.29%) Higginbotham Park By Materials (2) Higginbotham Park (City Council District 6) Conditions Assessment Higginbotham Park By Element 16.8 Acres, or 71 percent, of Higginbotham Park is lawn, while water comprises 23 percent of the Park. Similar to other parks in Lubbock a majority of Higginbotham Park is comprised of lawn, water, walking paths, and parking. Higginbotham Park aslo has two sports courts and a play equipment area. Higginbotham Park by Materials As depicted in Higginbotham Park By Materials (1) and Higginbotham Park By Materials (2), a majority of the Park is open space. A concrete and crushed gravel loop trail surrounds the park. This includes cement bridges to cross over drainage inlets. The surrounding loop trail is in overall good conditions with minor cracks and paving stone alignment issues. Material / Element Condition by Area Over 99 percent of the materials / elements in Higginbotham Park scored a 2, 'fair' condition. The restroom facility on the northwest corner of the Park scored a 3, 'good' condition. Notable utility infrastructure on average scored a 1 or 2. Unstable metal protective posts, exposed water box lids, and uneven grasses surfacing around utilities was observed. Play equipment areas were scored as a 2, 'fair' condition, noting potential issues with the transition between play area surfaces and surrounding concrete trails. Higginbotham Park Conditions Score By 1 2.63 Higginbotham Park Water Levels Higginbotham Park Elements Higginbotham Park Element and Material Low-water Line ,r. OPON C O Y K� a� { L, Average Water Line High-water Line a \ 1 a- �- y.. � a Higginbotham Water Levels and Drainage The playa at Higginbotham Park has varying water elevation of up to 95 feet from the low water line to high water line. High water events mostly effect the south side of the site where unprogrammed open space is most prominent. Notable highwater does get within five feet of the volleyball court and half basketball court which may cause future water damage. A large unvegetated buffer exists around the playa lake due to large variations in water level. 9 6 4 4 14p 4J( i 0 + `• Higginbotham Trail Conditions Connectivity Differences in elevations and slopes were observed at transition zones between the Parks perimeter crushed gravel trail and internal concrete paved trails, specifically leading to the play equipment area. Higginbotham Park, currently, is not connected to external sidewalk facilities. The only connection is an direct to street ramp next to the play area at 17th Street. There are so sidewalk connections or ramps leading from the Park to Utica Street,19th Street, or Vicksburg Avenue. In addition there are no sidewalk orADA accessible connections from the parking lot. A l 2.64 Objective 1.3: Enhance maintenance practices to ensure a network of high - quality parks and recreational facilities It is evident that the operation and maintenance of Lubbock's parks, recreation, and open spaces is in immediate need for a larger workforce and better geographic distribution of citywide maintenance facilities. In addition to maintaining the City's parks system, the LPARD is responsible for maintaining the grounds and facilities of other departments and agencies, as well as assisting with special events and setting up seasonal events and celebrations, such as Santa Land's holiday decorations and the 4th on Broadway celebration. The LPARD's Park Maintenance Division consists of 62 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions, of which four positions are administrative. The LPARD has subdivided parks and recreation maintenance responsibilities into four geographic areas, which are color -coded (black, green, blue, and red) as depicted in Figure 2.15, Operations and Maintenance Facilities. Each district is composed of personnel who can address the full range of maintenance -related issues. The Black District has seven FTEs; the Green District has eight FTEs; the Blue District has 11 FTEs; and the Red District has 11 FTEs. In summary, within the LPARD there are 27 FTEs devoted to maintaining Lubbock's parks. Supporting the four maintenance districts, there is a separate electrical crew, composed of three FTEs, which handles electrical issues in all parks and special use facilities; and an irrigation crew, composed of eight FTEs, which addresses irrigation operations and maintenance in all parks and facilities. There is also an Athletic Fields crew, composed of 13 FTEs, which maintain the City's sports and athletic fields. Maintenance responsibilities far exceed the capacity for the existing number of full-time employees to manage. The primary concern regarding the LPARD's current maintenance staff is the shortage of employees. The existing staff members charged with maintaining current parks and open spaces are overwhelmed, making it difficult to address all the parks maintenance needs throughout the city. Additionally, due to the location of maintenance facilities, staff are required to travel across the city to reach the parks and open spaces for which they are responsible. The amount of time spent traveling 2.65 throughout the day significantly affects staff's ability to efficiently address all maintenance needs. Overall, the LPARD's maintenance staff have been mainly focused on being reactive to operational issues, and due to inadequate staffing, the team is unable to be more proactive. Skilled workers are not being tasked with jobs that are best suited to their abilities; rather, these individuals are needed to help with more unskilled work to keep up with citywide demand. Their principal focus has been to keep parks and recreation facilities clean of trash and to manage vegetation. There hasn't been the growth in maintenance staff needed to take care of preventative maintenance -related issues. As described on the Operations -based Assessment (refer to page 2.33) the combination of 1) an above average amount of parkland acres and 2) a below average number of maintenance FTE positions leads the LPARD to have the third highest parkland acre per maintenance FTE compared to the regional comparison communities. Compared to the median value of 26 acres per maintenance FTE, the LPARD's maintenance department staff are responsible for maintaining almost twice as much land on a per person basis. As future plans to develop more park and trail space and expand facilities are realized, the strain on maintenance staff will only be compounded. Citizens must see the value the LPARD provides. Strategy 1.3.1: Refine operations -based metrics to establish optimal operations and maintenance thresholds. Continue to utilize NRPA Park Metrics and refine Regional Comparison Communities operating expenditures, revenue generation, and staffing metrics to compare with LPARD operations, in order to establish benchmarks for evaluating optimal service thresholds. Actions and Initiatives: Establish relationships with Regional Comparison Communities' parks and recreation departments to learn more about and corroborate departmental administration, operations and maintenance best practices which may be applicable to parks management in Lubbock. Accompanied by LPARD administrative and maintenance staff, tour Regional Comparison Communities' parks and recreational facilities to further establish uniform and quantifiable standards of quality in parks operations and maintenance. 3. Continue to expand Regional Comparison Communities database through the inclusion of additional communities with Quality of Life indices similar to Lubbuck. Strategy 1.3.2: Adopt and phase -in an annual hiring program based on the planned projects and activities to be performed by the LPARD over the next five to 10 years, and beyond. Over the next five years, the LPARD's maintenance program should be incrementally expanded to include additional areas of specialization. The LPARD's maintenance staff currently consists of 58 FTEs in the field focusing on actual maintenance of 3,472 acres of parks and facilities, as well as other municipal facilities and grounds (approx. 3,588 acres total). This includes park inspectors, a pesticide applicator, electricians, irrigation crew, and athletic field crew. As described in the Operations -based Assessment, this translates to approximately two maintenance FTEs per 10,000 residents; and 62 acres maintained per FTE. The amount of acreage maintained per employee is extremely high compared the Regional Comparison Communities, the median of which is 26 acres maintained per FTE (refer to Figure 2.9). In order to ensure efficient and equitable maintenance of parks moving forward, the City should adopt and phase - in an annual hiring program based on the anticipated staffing required to implement the planned projects and activities recommended within the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan to be performed by the LPARD over the next five to 10 year period; in particular the projects summarized in Figure 6.1, Master Plan Priorities (page 6.10): Actions and Initiatives: 1. Establish a policy whereby with all parks and facility improvements and additions ensure that there is a corresponding increase in full-time maintenance staff. 2. With the development of the LPARD's asset management program, hire a Cartegraph technical operator (Strategy 1.3.7). 3. Consider establishing an LPARD Horticulture Team. Responsibilities would include: — Tree maintenance within Lubbock's parks and other non -park grounds maintained by the LPARD — Native Texas shortgrass prairie plant propagation for parks and open spaces within the Canyon Lakes (Strategy 5.1.1) — Riparian vegetation propagation for streambank stabilization and playa restoration (Strategy 5.1.5) — Vegetation management (incl. playa restoration) in parks (Strategy 1.2.1) 4. Consider additional staff required to administer, implement, and manage the following proposed improvements: — Lake Alan Henry's Sam Wahl Recreation Area (refer to Chapter 5, Lubbock's Lakes, Objective 5.9, page 5.79) — LPARD Aquatics program (Strategy 4.1.2) — Prairie Dog eradication (Strategy 5.1.2) Strategy 1.3.3: Develop a series of demonstration parks to showcase best facilities operations and maintenance practices. Identify six existing parks (one park per Council District), to use to demonstrate the LPARD capabilities and best practices regarding park operations and maintenance. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Use Aztlan Park as Council District 2 demonstration park. Assess the park's irrigation system to determine needed improvements. 2. Develop defensible demonstration park selection criteria. Consider utilizing parks that have recently received facility upgrades, including new playgrounds and/or trails. Strategy 1.3.4: Encourage the formation of volunteer organizations to help with beautification efforts at parks. "Friends of the park" groups can help provide park beautification or clean-up efforts for communities. These volunteer -driven groups can help engender and enhance a sense of shared pride for Lubbock's parks, particularly for neighborhood parks. These groups can also help support existing maintenance efforts conducted by the City. It is prudent for the City to keep track of these groups and to help identify projects that are not too complex for the volunteer groups to complete. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Contact the Friends of McAlister Park to more fully understand the purpose and conditions under which the organization was formed. 2. Consider alternative organizational structures for a "Friends of" organization, which could augment the responsibilities of the LPARD, and may include landscape sitework enhancements such as tree planting, litter control, park events programming, etc. Friends of Parks volunteers constructing a new fence in Salt Lake City, Utah 2.67 Source: City of Salt Lake City It's My Park Beautification Program Volunteers Source: City Parks Foundation Madison, Wisconsin's Adopt -a -Median Program Source: City of Madison, Wisconsin Volunteers help at Lubbock Memorial Arboretum Source: Lubbock Arboretum Strategy 1.3.5: Continue to promote the LPARD's Adopt -a -Park program. Continue to promote opportunities whereby private individuals, companies, and other community organizations can adopt and routinely maintain a park, or other asset currently managed by the LPARD. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Contact TxDOT to learn about their administration of its Adopt -a -Highway program. The TxDOT Coordinator in Lubbock is Carolyn Craddick (T#806- 748-4443). arks. Recreation. and Open Soace Master Plan PARD Strategy 1.3.6: Establish a City-wide maintenance policy for municipal grounds and facilities outside of the jurisdiction of the LPARD. As discussed within the Operations -based Assessment (refer to page 2.33) , compared to the regional comparison communities, the LPARD currently does not have enough staff to maintain the 3,472 acres and associated facilities within its jurisdiction. The LPARD is also required to maintain non -park -related municipal facilities / grounds amounting to well -over 10 acres; which only compounds the problem.Until staffing levels are increased to established target levels maintenance responsibilities should be limited to the parks and facilities operated by the LPARD. Actions and Initiatives: Work with the Office of the City Manager, Legal Department, and Finance Department to formulate a policy whereby municipal departments and agencies utilize third -party maintenance companies for maintenance of facilities and grounds. Strategy 1.3.7: Develop an asset management program to address the full spectrum of parks and facilities operations and maintenance requirements. Developing an Asset Management Program for LPARD parks facilities and equipment should include the following: • scoring park amenities, elements, and equipment based on condition • establishing the typical lifespan of park facilities and elements and equating to park conditions assessment score, factoring -in annual depreciation rate, to determine replacement schedule • geolocating all park amenities and equipment Actions and Initiatives: 1. As park facilities and equipment are replaced, evaluate the current location and determine appropriateness. Consider relocating facilities and equipment to improve user comfort and accessibility. 2. Migrate GIS-based park conditions assessment into City's Cartegraph program. 3. Link photographs of park elements to geolocated points. Strategy 1.3.8: Standardize park facilities and equipment. A well-defined set of equipment and amenity design standards should be implemented for Lubbock's parks system to create consistency in park character and enhance park spaces through equitable provision of quality amenities. The four park classification typologies outlined in this plan are classified to serve different though complementary recreational purposes based on the amenities and facilities that are suitable for the individual park space. Design standards that the City develops should consider the type of active and passive recreational amenities suitable for each typology informed by park size and target level of service. Actions and Initiatives: Develop a Park Standards Manual. A park standards manual establishes minimum design, construction, and performance expectations for the City's park furnishings, equipment, and amenities. The intent of the Standards Manual is to inform and guide park and open space planning, standardization, capital improvements and maintenance, in order to sustain life -cycle resource investments within the public realm. 2. Incorporate Park Standards Manual into City of Lubbock Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications manual (May 01, 2020). Input Park Standards Manual specifications into the LPARD's Asset Management Program. Strategy 1.3.9 Develop a Maintenance Manual for all parks, open space areas, facilities and equipment administered and maintained by the LPARD. Develop a seasonal, systems -specific Maintenance Manual for each park. Include preventative maintenance measures as well as routine annual/semi-annual upkeep of facilities and equipment in order to increase the lifespan. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Include a general weatherization schedule applicable to all parks, facilities and equipment. 2. Include seasonal planting and rotation of annual plantings. 3. Include LPARD equipment maintenance activities and schedule, including Fleet vehicles and equipment with small engines. 4. Input Maintenance Manual activities and schedule into the LPARD's Asset Management Program. 5. Refer to the "Developing a Maintenance Program and Plan" section (page 287), within the NRPA publication, "Management of Park and Recreation Agencies;' 4th edition, M. Moiseichik (ed.), 2016. 2.68 Chanter2. Lubbock's Parks Strategy 1.3.10: Provide LPARD Maintenance staff opportunities to advance their training and improve important skill sets. For the last several years, under the previous Parks Department administration, training of staff had been severely neglected. Under the current administration parks maintenance staff are being given opportunities to attend training sessions and conferences (NRPA and TRAPS). As depicted in Table 2.14, Parks Maintenance Training Schedule, FY2023, maintenance staff are trained to obtain specific skill sets and certifications, which will benefit the LPARD and ikncrease the value of LPARD staff. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Review the educational programs offered by the NRPA, the Southwest Park and Recreation Training Institute, including the 2023 Park Planning and Maintenance Academy (PPMA) to improve staff training and certification in key areas of park operations and maintenance. Strategy 1.3.11: Consider additional recruitment / retention incentives for Parks Division maintenance staff. It is very important that the LPARD develop dependable and reliable staff who want to devote their careers to the LPARD and are committed to advancing the LPARD's mission and goals. To recruit and retain staff it is critical that the LPARD has the requisite tools and resources to invest in their staff and ensure they are challenged and they feel valued. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Work with City of Lubbock's Human Resources Department to consider elevating staff compensation levels and other potential incentives, such as signing bonuses, to attract and retain potential candidates. 2. Provide clear pathways for advancement within the LPARD. .s Strategy 1.3.12: Utilize the Master Plan's Park Condition Assessment to prioritize parks improvements. Continue to double-check the accuracy the park conditions assessment according to LPARD criteria. Update accordingly. Actions and Initiatives: 1. As LPARD staff make routine visits to parks ground truth the Park Conditions Assessment scoring to make sure staff is in agreement with scores and they adequately reflect actual conditions. 2. Utilize the Park Conditions Assessment to prioritize improvements to park fascilities. Park facilities that have received a score of 1.0 should be addressed immediately. 3. Work with the City's Engineering and Water Department to prioritize improvements to park drainage infrastructure, including concrete culverts. 4. Include the LPARD's Park Playground Inspection. Report and playground condition scoring into the park Conditions Assessment. 5. With improvements to park facilities and equipment revise the numerical score in the park conditions assessment. Strategy 1.3.13: Continue to implement the LPARD's playground replacement program. Of the 56 playgrounds managed by the LPARD, several are in very poor shape and should be replaced. During Fiscal Year (FY) 2021-22, at a cost of $746,385, the LPARD replaced four playgrounds at the following parks: • Aztlan Park • Strong Park • Stumpy Hamilton Park • Washington Park Utilizing $1.1 million in ARPA funding, the LPARD plans to replace five additional playgrounds, and associated amenities (e.g., benches, picnic tables and barbeque pits) at the following parks: • Cooke Park • Crow Park • Davis Park • Higginbotham Park • Mahon Park Strong Park play equipment 2.69 SourceHalff Associates A playground has a lifespan of approximately 20 years. The most degraded playgrounds in the LPARD's portfolio are between 23-27 years old. The replacement cost of a typical playground is approximately $225,000. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Develop a playground replacement program and budget whereby at least two "F" rated playgrounds are replaced each year, and remedial treatments are provided for playgrounds with a "C" rating in order to extent their lifespan while the playgrounds with a low "Y rating are replaced. 2. Update the LPARD Park Playground Inspection Report on an annual basis in order to track the rate of playground degradation, and subsequent ratings. Provide prioritization rationale for either remedial treatment or replacement of as many of the worst playgrounds as the LPARD budget will allow. Utilize a rating system through which playgrounds can be ranked based on condition and prioritized for replacement; whereby a rating of: — "F" (based on a grade between 51-59 points) represents a playground that is in extremely poor condition and should be replaced within a 12 to 18-month timeframe; — "D" (based on a grade between (60-69 points) represents a playground that is in poor condition and should be replaced within a two- to three-year timeframe; — "C" (based on a grade between 70-79 points) represents a playground that is in average condition where remedial treatment may be warranted and the playground should be monitored; but the playground should remain useable for eight to 10 more years; — "B" (based on a grade between 80-89 points) represents a playground that is in good condition, where no treatment is warranted; — "A" (based on a grade between 90-100 points) represents a playground that is in very good condition and should not require replacement for 20 years. 3. Log playground replacements into the City's Cartegraph asset management program. 4. Provide a LPARD maintenance staff member with the requisite training from the NRPA or equivalent program, to become a Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI). Earl Crow Park play equipment Source: Halff Associates Higginbotham Park play equipment Source: Halff Associates Strategy 1.3.14: Improve LPARD maintenance facilities. Identify additional facilities within which the LPARD maintenance staff can reside; that are more evenly distributed throughout the City; that would enable specialized crews to have their own place to reside and store equipment. Actions and Initiatives: 1. The Public Works Department is constructing a new facility on the south side of the City. There may be an opportunity to allocate some space for the LPARD. 2. The LPARD's electrical crew is currently based out of the Clapp Park maintenance facility. Consider areas and facilities where they may be able to locate so they can have their own facility. Maintenance Facilities 1. Central facility needs larger shop. 2. Develop a network of maintenance facilities located within some of the larger parks, equally distributed throughout the City. 2.70 Maintenance Facilities For effective delivery of a high -quality parks system, it is necessary to have sufficient building space for equipment storage and maintenance as well as operational space for maintenance staff. As described in Table 2.14, FloorArea for Maintenance and Storage Facilities, the LPARD has a total of 55,272 square feet of floor space for housing equipment and maintenance staff. These facilities are at six locations throughout the City, as illustrated on Figure 2.15, Operations and Maintenance Facilities. There are three facilities inside and adjacent to Mackenzie Park, one facility adjacent to N. L. Clapp Aquatic Facility, one facility inside Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex and Berl Huffman Sports Complex each, and one storage and maintenance building near Comancheria Lake. As Figure 2.15 illustrates, the LPARD's storage and maintenance facilities are few in number and all but one is located on the northeast side of Lubbock, which increases staff travel time and reduces efficiency in operations. Furthermore, the limited floor space for maintenance staff in these facilities leads to overcrowding. A lack of floor area for maintenance, storage, and staff workspaces in Lubbock impedes the efficient and effective maintenance of parkland. With a total floor space of just 55,272 square feet, LPARD has 666 square feet of floor area for every park in Lubbock and just 16 square feet of floor space per parkland acre. While the range of values for facility floor area are not available for benchmark communities, metrics like Lubbock's floor area per park and floor area per parkland acre signify the inadequacy of storage and maintenance facility space available for efficient and cost-effective parkland maintenance. Lubbock Storage and Maintenance Facilities Facility Floor Area Per Park Facility Floor Area Per Parkland Acre Table 2.14, FloorArea for Maintenance and Storage Facilities 0 Parks and Recreation Maintenance Shop 1 4,030 308 Municipal Drive, Mackenzie Park © Parks and Recreation Maintenance Shop II 4,210 308 Municipal Drive, Mackenzie Park © Parks and Recreation Maintenance Shop III 3,406 308 Municipal Drive, Mackenzie Park 0 Maintenance Building 3,815 1906 Erskine Street © Maintenance Building 18,530 1912 Erskine Street 0 Storage Building 5,120 720 East Broadway Maintenance Building 664 O 2102 46th Street ©Storage Building 3,498 12401 Milwaukee Avenue Maintenance and Storage Building 12,000 O 2506 Landmark Drive 2.71 TOTAL 55,272 x' i Source: NearMap Imagery No Text Objective 1A Enhance visitor experience through expanded parks programming. There are many additional amenities that could be added to Lubbock's parks which could significantly enhance park visitors' experience. The following strategies are meant to provide examples of the range of improvements the LPARD should consider when enhancing specific parks. Strategy 1.4.1: Analyse how parks and facilities are used. Just because a park provides access to a particular facility does not necessarily mean that it will be used by visitors to the park. Observing and recording park use through behavior mapping would provide the LPARD with incredibly valuable information that could be used across the City's parks system to inform subsequent improvements and enrich user experience. Actions and Initiatives: Work with Texas Tech University Department of Landscape Architecture faculty and students to develop a replicable behavior mapping program to record the number of park users and their tendencies, with respect to park area preferences (where people went) and the facilities used (and not used) during different times of the day, and on different days. 2. Approach park users with a set of express survey questions to better understand user preferences and what additional programmatic features may be included in parks. 3. Re -program and maintain recreational facilities and park spaces based on feedback from periodic surveys disseminated through social media and at park facilities. Strategy 1.4.2: Ensure that Lubbock's parks and open space areas are designed and maintained to accommodate the recreational interests of all ages and demographics. Beyond ADA compliance, the LPARD should ensure that the City's parks and open spaces are designed and maintained to be safe and inclusive spaces which can be re -programmed, as necessary, to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse population. Actions and Initiatives: Ensure that recreational facilities are catering to the passive and active needs of all demographic sectors of the community, including young people not involved in team sports, and senior citizens. Strategy 1.4.3: Consider developing programs and facilities for adaptive recreation. Providing outdoor recreation opportunities that meet the needs and interests of users of all abilities is an essential responsibility of a city's park and recreation department. Incorporating inclusive play equipment and programming into parks allows children, parents, and caregivers to enjoy a park space regardless of physical, mental, or sensory abilities. Nationwide, communities have increasingly explored incorporating inclusive play into new or existing parks to better serve outdoor recreation needs of the community. The City should determine where it would be feasible to implement inclusive play equipment in existing parks and work with community partners to advance future efforts to enhance accessibility of inclusive play amenities. The LPARD should endeavor to create both accessible and inclusive recreational spaces within the City's parks and trail facilities. Creating accessible infrastructure and facilities allows people of various ages and abilities to access recreational opportunities. Simultaneously, creating inclusive parks and facilities will encourage community members to want to utilize the recreational opportunities offered by Lubbock's parks and trails system. As described in Chapter 1, Introduction, various demographics access and utilize parks in different ways and the LPARD should ensure that people of all abilities, ages, races / ethnicities, and genders have the opportunity to not only access park and trail facilities but are included and encouraged to access facilities as well as recreational programming. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Survey all park and trail facilities to check for compliance with ADA standards, especially those with uneven surfaces, spaces between paved and unpaved areas, and convenient access to seating. 2. All efforts should be made to bring all facilities, including active amenities (sports courts and fields), passive recreational amenities (concession stands, benches, seating areas, picnic areas, playgrounds, bathrooms) up to ADA standards of accessibility. 3. To ensure that there is an equitable distribution of facilities, the LPARD should construct at least one fully inclusive playground in a neighborhood or community park in each City Council District. This inclusive playground should have: — Wheelchair accessible routes, ramps, and equipment access points — Customized play equipment, such as swings and slides to accommodate children of all abilities. 2.73 — A cohesive design where play opportunities for persons in wheelchairs are integrated throughout. For example, wheelchair ramps should reach play structures, and all playground surfaces should be tiled, turfed, or smooth. 4. Include adaptive recreational programming and facilities in all programs and events offered by the LPARD. Consider hiring appropriately trained staff to design and deliver recreational program offerings for children with special needs. Strategy 1.4.4: Make Lubbock's parks a network of Wi-Fi hotspots. To increase the public's use of Lubbock's parks, investigate the feasibility of providing Internet access at community parks. Actions and Initiatives: 1. To determine feasibility, identify and research case studies of cities that have Wi-Fi hotspots in parks. 2. Identify a viable demonstration park, such as Clapp Park or Higginbotham Park, within which to test the Wi-Fi concept. Monitor demonstration park to determine degree of additional use it receives. Strategy 1.4.5: Consider developing a series of Story Book Trails in some of Lubbock parks. Story Book Trails have interpretive stands within parks and along trails showcasing enlarged pages from children's books, with each stand presenting up to two pages of a book. Every week the pages of the story book are "turned" to encourage children to want to return to the park to read the rest of the story. Story Book Trails provide children and families the opportunity to read and learn while participating in active recreation in a park setting. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Research story book pedestal -mounted exhibit frames for a story book trail. The company, Pannier, has created a low -profile, StoryWalk®exhibit system for story book trails. For more information, refer to Pannier's website: https:Hpanniergraphics. com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Pannier- StoryWalk%C2%AE-Exhibits-2.pdf Montgomery County, Ohio storybook trails Source: Montgomery County, Ohio Storybook trail in Island Cottage Woods Preserve Source: Genesee Land Trust k. r- Columbus Metropolitan Library Story Trail Source: Columbus Metropolitan Library 2.74 Strategy 1.4.6: Continue to support the development of non-traditional sports programming. The LPARD should continue to support, through facility development and open space allocation for non-traditional, active recreational and sports -related activities such as disc golf, obstacle course racing, cornhole, pickleball, and paddle boarding. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Continue to follow sports and recreational trends to determine people's recreational interests and plan accordingly. 2. As sporting activities become more popular and organized, meet with local sports club leadership and determine what kinds of facilites are needed to actively facilitate and promote participation in the recreational activity. Stubbs Park skate park Source: Halff Associates Pickleball at The Falls Tennis and Athletic Club Source: The Falls Tennis and Athletic Club V Mackoniic Park disc golf cou,sc Source: I laltf Associates r� 2.75 Sidebar McAlister Park Summary McAlister Park is approximately 280-acres of City - owned parkland located at the confluence of Marsha Sharp Freeway, Loop-289 and Spur 327. A large playa comprises almost 60-acres of the park site and visually dominates the park. Several existing recreational amenities reside on the site. A four -field, lighted baseball complex occupies the west side of the park. One of these baseball fields is a Miracle Field (which has a synthetic turf infield), while the other three fields are surfaced with natural grass. A concession/ restroom building and parking compliment the facility. Other amenities include a dog park, a Milestone indoor playground and skatepark. fob. " e� } r s s � Currently, master planning is underway to enhance McAlister Park with a variety of amenities. A proposed 100,000 square foot recreation center anchors the proposed plan and serves as the back bone from which a future community splash pad, covered sports court area (for basketball courts and futsal) and a plaza -style skate park radiates. A six -acre great lawn for city events is programmed into the heart of the park and a twelve - court pickleball center provides the park with another recreational activity for City residents. An emerald chain of wet meadows and trails link all of the amenities in the park while a prairie grass restoration initiative endeavors to completely transform the look and ecology of the park in the future. The master plan is slated for completion in the Fall of 2022. A t Ile, .. a. Strategy 1.4.7: Evaluate approaches to administering and managing the Meadowbrook Golf Course. Located on approximately 330 acres in Mackenzie Park, Meadowbrook Golf Course is a public 36-hole facility comprised of two 18-hole courses and was built in the early 1930s. While the course has been leased to a private company for the last 30 years, the lease is expected to be reevaluated around January 2025. In its current state, the golf course is dated and in need of significant repairs and maintenance to the clubhouse and maintenance structures, as well as an improved irrigation system. The property currently lacks adequate wayfinding signage or landscaping to create a welcoming environment, and upon entering the property, guests are greeted with a run-down maintenance facility with old equipment and trash littered in the yard. The cart storage facility shows a lot of wear and tear, as the main wall on the north side of the building is leaning severely and separated from the original support beams, creating concern that the roof will soon collapse if the structure shifts any further. The interior of the clubhouse is dated and worn, making it difficult to determine whether it is cleaned regularly. The existing food and beverage area is quite large, but like most of the clubhouse, it is in bad condition and mostly unusable. The kitchen appliances are noted to be in disrepair, and at this time, the clubhouse only offers prepackaged foods and hotdogs. Like many older golf facilities, Meadowbrook's cart paths are narrow and lack curbs to contain carts to the path. Overtime, erosion, hard pan soils, and turf loss result from carts driving over sensitive areas. Other factors that have negatively impacted turf quality include: • Poor water quality • Antiquated irrigation and poor coverage • Underfunded maintenance budget • Loss of topsoil in thin areas • Lack of cart traffic control or lack of curbs at sensitive play areas Meadowbrook Golf Course Source: GolfPass.com When Meadowbrook is stacked up against local competitors such as Reese Golf Center, the Rawls Course, and Shadow Hills, it is clear the facility is falling behind. By improving the overall condition and operation of the facilities there is an opportunity for Meadowbrook to become one of the best golf facilities in the region. For a municipally owned facility, there are three choices for operations: • Lease to a private company • Bring the operation in-house to LPARD • Hire a management company to provide daily operations Leasing to a private company must be clearly thought out, ensuring the goals of the company are the same as the city. The goal for the city is to make sure they have the resources to run a successful operation; the city will monitor facility conditions, equipment, and survey results. Given the history of leasing the facility in the past, this may not be the best option for Lubbock. Landscaped clubhouse exterior, Colonial Park Golf Course, Clovis, NM 2.77 Source: City of Clovis, New Mexico Since the golf course property is owned by the city, there is an opportunity for the entire operation to be under LPARD control. All golf course employees would be city employees, causing the city to pay closer attention to facility operations. Hiring a management company provides a middle ground between leasing the course and the city taking all responsibility. Advantages to hiring a management company include expedited hiring/on-boarding processes, as well as provide more specialized resources to handle more technical issues such as agronomy, retail purchasing, and food and beverage purchases. If a management company is hired, they run self -sufficiently and can handle accounting, payroll, accounts payable and receivable without putting the extra burden on the city staff. There are several capital improvement projects that can be done at Meadowbrook, and a long-term plan should be formulated to lay out the vision for the future of the facility. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Develop a master plan for the facility. Partner with a golf course architect to determine the feasibility of landscape and structure enhancements to the course as well as identify associated costs for improvements. 2. Determine the future operations following the end of the current lease in 2025. LPARD should consider the option to operate the facility in-house or hire a management company. A significant amount of money and repairs will need to be invested into the facility priorto partnership to entice a company to operate the facility. 3. Install a new irrigation system and pump house. A good irrigation system pumps life into the course and provides the best chance for quality playing for residents and visitors alike. The new irrigation system should provide filtration to ensure harmful minerals are reduced, improving the quality of water. 4. Improve the overall look of the facility by installing basic landscaping around the building that is easy to maintain, doesn't require irrigation, and is colorful. 5. Repair and update all structures on the property including the clubhouse, maintenance facility, and golf car storage building to ensure they meet current quality and safety standards. Amarillo Country Club Golf Course Source: Amarillo Country Club Bowed maintenance building wall Source: Orion Management Solutions Poor turf conditions along paths Source: Orion Management Solutions LakeRidge Country Club dining area Source: LakeRidge Country Club Canyon at Meadowbrook Golf Course Source: GolfPass.com 2.78 LB K Chapter 2 . Lubbock's Parks ITA �' � �rt^t ..yam ��a� :� 1 �0 e�pp�� q 'y$ `i _ yx s{.•" 'e , rn r '�� �-a•'�� 1� *� �1b i �' i1 � ra�.r v 4 h + a y�e � � fit„ `. � ��• ��� ;y. y r ,� � iy >� 4 ;y r,;F �!• yyOr :-41_0�o -W � r _- Trail in. L&Wt-ah Park , 5bum As C 73 - ,i EA VIETNAII Natural Features Introduction Lubbock's natural features are ideal for continued investment and with minimal redevelopment and can be transformed into usable outdoor recreational opportunities. Natural features such as prairie land anc playas are scattered throughout the City, while natural draws and archeological sites are considerably more contained. This section explains how Lubbock's natural features can be used to augment existing parkland and programmed outdoor spaces. Playas Playa lakes are recurring, temporary bodies of water of varying size and depth. These lakes are unique to the U.S. Southern High Plains, collecting rainwater in a region of otherwise relatively flat terrain. These natural water catchments are also known as buffalo wallows. Playa lakes set a natural backdrop for trail and parkland development in a unique natural environment where visitors can experience a variety of native plant species, birds, and wildlife. There are more than 1,000 playa lakes of various sizes and depths in Lubbock and its ETJ, although playa lakes water levels fluctuate dynamically due to the region's arid climate and seasonal rainfall. Building parks around playas is an effective way of preserving and managing the ecosystem services they provide. Natural Draws A draw is a terrain feature formed by two parallel ridges with low ground in between them. Regional draws near Lubbock are the Yellow House Draw and Blackwater Draw. The Yellow House is a major landmark on the Texas South Plains and cuts a gap of more than 35 miles into the eastern edge of Lubbock and Crosby counties. Both watercourses converge at Vaquero Lake in Lubbock's Canyon Lake System. These pathways can serve as natural hiking trails and walkways for residents and visitors. As the Canyon Lakes System continues to develop according to the strategies and recommendations outlined within Chapter 5, Lubbock's Lakes, the draws can serve as additional semi -natural, linear parks and open space corridors for the neighborhoods to the west of the City within its Extraterritorial Jurisdiction. Canyon Lakes System The Jim Bertram Canyon Lakes System is within the city limits of Lubbock and consists of six lakes: • Conquistador Lake • Llano Estacado Lake • Comancheria Lake • Vaquero Lake • Canyon Lake • Dunbar Historical Lake These lakes are located within Yellow House Draw and Yellow House Canyon. This system was constructed by the City of Lubbock and is maintained by the LPARD. As discussed in Chapter 5, Canyon Lakes Master Plan, activation of the resources within the Canyon Lakes will be a major contribution to recreation within the City and region. Lubbock Lake Landmark The Lubbock Lake Landmark is an archaeological preserve containing evidence of peoples on the Southern High Plains for almost 12,000 years. Due to its nearly complete record of human activity within well -stratified and well -dated geological deposits, the Lubbock Lake Landmark is one of the most important archaeological sites in North America. A unit of the Museum of Texas Tech University, the Lubbock Lake Landmark is located at Lubbock's northern edge, adjacent to the Berl Huffman Athletic Complex. The Landmark has almost five miles of hiking trails and is a key destination in the Canyon Lakes System. Built Features Introduction Open spaces resources which serve other functions such as drainage channels, utility rights -of -way and easements, school district properties and athletic fields, and county parks can be utilized to augment Lubbock's park system. In Lubbock, these built features are spatially distributed throughout the City and trails can be used to incrementally link each built feature within the broader park system. Drainage Channels Combining flood control infrastructure such as drainage corridors and channels can serve recreational functions. Watercourses make excellent natural open spaces of high scenic quality due to the abundance of associated vegetation, wildlife, and landforms. Multi- use trails can be constructed within the rights -of -way of linear drainage channels and corridors to provide water management and recreational co -benefits. Where feasible, drainage channels and drainageways can also enhance connectivity between existing trails, parks, and neighborhood destinations by allowing passage through otherwise inaccessible areas. To minimize maintenance requirements, multi -use trails should be located above channel banks to prevent stormwater runoff erosion and nuisance flows crossing the path. Drainage Example 1 An interior drainage channel runs from the South Loop 289 East frontage road between Quaker and Memphis Avenues to Clifford Andrews Park, which is also immediately adjacent to Bill & Ann Miller Park to the northeast. The area around the drainage channel can be adapted and activated into a multi -use path that safely connects commercial properties and residential homes to Clifford Andrews Park, providing valuable interior circulation for the neighborhood. This drainageway trails will not only enhance multi -modal connectivity between roadways but will also intentionally and consciously reactivate unused and underused infrastructure to make it available for the pedestrian realm. Drainage channel in Maxey Park Source: Halff Associates 2.81 Drainage Example 1 Source: ESRI, Halff Associates Drainage Example 2 This drainage area is between Milwaukee and Upland Avenues and below 66th Street in the southeastern side of Lubbock. The open, unprogrammed space is enveloped by the Primrose Point subdivision to the north and the Bacon Crest subdivision to the east, and several commercial and light industrial sites to the south. The site is ideally located to many residential and commercial uses that make the drainage area a potential candidate for additional investment. Within a one - quarter mile of the site is Frenship Oak Ridge Elementary School and Heritage Middle School in the Frenship ISD. Additional walking paths throughout the site would connect residential homes to the north with retail and commercial businesses on Milwaukee Avenue, and allow for a conveniently placed walking path for local residents. Additionally, the drainage parcels are already owned by the City of Lubbock, further reducing incremental improvement barriers. Drainage Example 3 Several concrete drainage channels and natural swales lead up to a large unprogrammed retention pond on the northwestern side of Lubbock. Located between North Quaker and North Nashville Avenues immediately above Texas 289 Loop Frontage Road, this retention area is adjacent to Wayland Baptist University, and Centennial Elementary School, which is within the Lubbock Independent School District: as well as four multi- family residential complexes, including one complex supporting senior living. Multi -use paths around the perimeter of this retention pond would provide valuable recreational opportunities for the varying residential densities nearby. Drainage Example 4 This drainage area is divided by Milwaukee Ave, just north of 19th Street in northwest Lubbock. A commercial strip center is located to the south; and single-family residential surrounds the remaining three sides. The space is currently underutilized and contains drainage easements. All of these examples illustrate how drainage infrastructure can be utilized to expand and enhance Lubbock's park system to support the recreational needs of often underserved populations. Drainage Example 2 Source: ESRI, HalffAssociates Drainage Example 3 Source: ESRI, HalffAssociates 40 • r Drainage Example 4 Source: ESRI, HalffAssociates WiM Sidebar Houston's Bayou Greenways Initiative The Houston Bayou Greenways 2020 Initiative is a $220 million public -private partnership between the City of Houston, Texas, the Houston Parks Board, TxDOT, and other entities. This initiative aims to create a continuous park system along Houston's major waterways, transforming more than 3,000 acres along the bayous into linear parks and building 150-mile network of trails that connect residents to area destinations. The Bayou Greenways Initiative has created off-street trails along six bayous around the Houston area, as well as the west fork of the San Jacinto River. Upon completion, the trail network will put nearly 1.5 million Houstonians within 1.5 miles of a Bayou Greenway. The project aims to redefine Houston as a beautiful, healthy, and active city of the future. The project is built on a century -old vision by urban planner Arthur Comey to create a connected, equitably distributed trails and greenspace network accessible to all residents that showcases the ecological and historical significance of the bayous. Specific objectives of the Bayou Greenways Initiative plan include the following: • Transform underutilized land along the bayous to create an equitable distribution of accessible public greenspace. • Create new places for Houstonians to connect, meet, recreate, and celebrate • Maximize the physical and visual access to the greenways • Inspire respect for the natural setting and ecological significance of the bayou corridors Neighborhood connections to Sims Bayou Greenway Trail 2.83 Source: White Oak Studio cl—tom Bayou Greenways 2020 Network Map Source: Houston Parks Board Sims Bayou Trail Source: Houston Parks Board Bayou Greenways Celebration Day Source: Houston Parks Board White Oak Bayou Trail Source: Houston Public Media Buffalo Bayou Trail Source: Buffalo Bayou Partnership Utility Rights -of -Way Neglected, unused space along a utility corridor can be converted into an effective multi -use trail or functional cut -through for neighborhood residents. Development of a trail along a linear utility corridor activates an otherwise barren space and makes it visually attractive and functional. Depending on the utility ownership scheme, the shared use of unused ground space can significantly reduce or offset the normal costs associated with trail acquisition and development. Electric utility companies may require additional precautions to preserve public safety when faced with the request for construction of a trail on their land. Dangerous electrical equipment can be protected from trail users with anti -climbing poles, and a designated buffer space between the trail and transmission towers. (Source: Rails -to -Trails Conservancy) Utility Example 1 An existing seven -mile electrical transmission utility corridor between Milwaukee and University Avenues and 98th and 114th Streets could potentially serve as a catalyst site for a residential linear park. This corridor passes near at least 600 residential homes, alleyways, and driveways, and is in the vicinity of thousands more residences, retail shops and commercial businesses. This corridor could be enhanced with meandering walking paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, and other trail elements. Utility Example 2 In the northern half of Lubbock, a two -and -a -half -mile electrical transmission utility corridor travels from North Frankford Avenue to North Quaker Avenue and crosses in front of several residential subdivisions. Using a walking trail, a one -quarter mile segment of the utility corridor has been transformed from unprogrammed, unusable space to a recreational asset forthe nearby community (see below). Perimeter trees enclose the walking trail and contribute to the sense of an "outdoor room" If extended the entire length of the corridor, a potential walking trail would connect the neighborhood to Centennial Elementary School and nearby multi -family homes. ilu_ AA jl_ Walking trail along existing utility corridor between Slide Road and Vale Avenue near Centennial Elementary Source: NearMap 0.1311 Active Transportation Corridors Active transportation is any self-propelled, human - powered mode of transportation, such as walking or bicycling. Physical inactivity is a major contributor to the stead rise in rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic health conditions in the United States. Many Americans view walking and bicycling within their communities as unsafe due to heavy traffic and a scarcity of comfortable facilities such as protected bicycle lanes, bicycle boulevards, and shared use paths. The following corridors were identified in the 2019 Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan for active transportation improvements. • Corridor 1 is a proposed shared use path from Erskine Street to 8th Street and 87th Street to 93'd Street, a Bicycle Lane from 19' Street to 114th Street. The corridor connects 7 parks, 4 schools, and 4 recreation facilities. • Corridor 2 is a proposed Bicycle Lane between Erskine Street and 4th Street, 38th Street and 106th Street, and a proposed Bicycle Boulevard between 34th Street and 38' Street. The corridor connects 7 parks and 5 schools. • Corridor 3 is a proposed Bicycle Lane connecting Downtown Lubbock at 15th Street to 52"d Street. The corridor connects 2 schools and 3 parks. • Corridor 4 is a proposed Bicycle Lane connecting Kent Street and residents in the northeast side of Lubbock to Downtown and connects to numerous cultural destinations. • Corridor 5 is a proposed Bicycle Lane between Broadway Street and 19' Street and a Side Path between 18' Street and 58th Street. The corridor 2 destinations and 2 Parks. • Corridor 6 is a proposed Bicycle Lane between Municipal Drive and Parkway drive, a Shared Use Path from Parkway Drive to 114th Street. The corridor connects 6 schools and 3 parks. • Corridor 7 is a proposed Bicycle Boulevard between Avenue P and Frankford Avenue, and proposed Bicycle Lane between Frankford Avenue and Milwaukee Avenue. The corridor connects 4 parks. • Corrior 8 is a proposed Bicycle Boulevard between Avenue P and Utica Avenue, and proposed Bicycle Lane between Utica Avenue and Chicago Avenue. The corridor connects 3 schools and 6 parks. Corridor 9 is a proposed Bicycle Boulevard between Avenue P and Slide Road, and Bicycle lane between Slide Road and TX 289 Loop Frontage Road. The corridor connects 4 Parks, 6 schools, 2 institutions, and 6 churches. • Corridor 10 is a proposed Bicycle Lane between M.L.K. Jr. Boulevard and Avenue L, a Bicycle Boulevard between Avenue L and Flint Avenue, and a Bicycle Lane between Flint Avenue and Chicago Avenue. The corridor is buffered by residential and industrial land uses, and connects 5 parks, 2 Community Centers, and 3 schools. • Corridor 11 is a proposed Bicycle Lane between Magnolia Avenue and Slide Road, a Side Path between Slide Road and Bangor Avenue, and a Bicycle Lane between and Alcove Avenue. The corridor connects 4 Parks, and 6 schools • Corridor 12 is a proposed Bicycle Boulevard between M.L.K. Jr. Boulevard and Avenue E, and between Bully Holly Avenue and Nashville Avenue, and a proposed Side Path between Buddy Holly Avenue and Avenue E. The corridor connects 10 parks, 2 schools, and 2 destinations. • Corridor 13 is a proposed Bicycle Boulevard between University Avenue and Avenue S, and a Bicycle Lane between Avenue S and Buddy Holly Avenue. The corridor connects Downtown to residential land uses,1 park, and Texas Tech University. 2.85 r— I I \ — — — — — - \ \ I I i z Drew St. Keuka St. • st. � Kent St. 4 \ LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, AND \ OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN \ Client: City of Lubbock \ Consultants: Halff Associates, Inc. \ \ Data Sources: City of Lubbock, Texas LEGEND Natural Resource Canyon Lakes System Lake Lubbock Landmark Site I \ , Park \ Playa Lake \ Yellow House Draw / Lake \ Built Resource Utility Corridor Drainage Channel Education Institution Active Transportation Corridors On -Street Protected Bicycle Lane Proposed Shared Use Path 74 - Proposed Bicycle Lane Conversion Proposed Bicycle Boulevard It. ...... Existing Bicycle Lane ...... Existing Shared Use Path L bb k C't L' 't St u oc l y m s ® _ -1Lubbock ET1 Interstate State Road 1 stn Principal Arterial Road • • Major Collector Street / Minor Arterial Street / Minor Collector Street / Local Road / /r Rail line Water Body \ Public / Institutional I Parks I 289 Proposed Lake 7 r�J I 84 / 1 mile 2 miles 3 miles n / / 1 inch = 8,333 feet fD Fff J 130th MAP 2.3: / / BUILT AND NATURAL F, A - 146th RESOURCES 41 • a ° � / August 2022 r x m a a m ¢ 5 i D n D D D v Woodrow Rd. — — — — — — — — — — — Kent St. Ursul a St. L Erskine St. LL e t 04 it I 4k • • School District Properties Athletic fields, playgrounds, gymnasia, and parkland on school property are valuable public assets that can be harnessed to serve the recreational needs of the community during after school hours. There are three independent school districts (Lubbock ISD, Lubbock - Cooper ISD, Frenship ISD), which operate over 60 schools with recreational and sports facilities within the Lubbock's corporate limits, while there are 11 independent school districts and more than 100 schools in the surrounding region. The largest school district, Lubbock Independent School District (LISD), operates approximately 50 locations within the city limits of Lubbock. Many schools are near community centers and parks or are in areas devoid of other outdoor recreational opportunities for surrounding neighborhood residents. School properties can be leveraged to synergize the community's access to recreational and sports facilities in their neighborhoods through an arrangement called an interlocal agreement. These types of mutually beneficial public partnerships function as joint ventures that would enable the school district and municipal government to jointly promote a culture of physical activity for youth and adults through negotiating the use of athletic facilities for sports leagues, sharing maintenance costs, and co -sponsoring the development of additional recreational facilities. Furthermore, visitors to Lubbock would benefit from the extended operating hours and enhanced functionality of school grounds under an interlocal agreement. Because schools already function as community anchors, interlocal agreements strengthen the social fabric of surrounding neighborhoods by encouraging residents to visit familiar locations. Combining resources through an interlocal agreement revitalizes existing parks, preserves environmentally sensitive areas from new development and encourages collaboration in the design and implementation of active and passive recreational facilities. 2.87 School Example 1: The Copper Rawlings Community and Adult Activity Center is immediately adjacent to Harwell Elementary School in the Harwell neighborhood. An informal agreement exists between the institutions that enables reciprocal access to playground equipment and athletic fields outside of school hours through a gap in the perimeter fence. + r r 1 r� f - School Example 2: Located between Avenue U and Temple Avenue in the southeastern side of Lubbock, Atkins Junior High School and Bayless Elementary School are both immediately adjacent to O.W. Ribble Park and O.W. Ribble Annex. Leveraging an interlocal agreement would allow local community residents to access Atkins' running track and tennis courts and provide additional recreational space to school -aged students during operating hours. r�,ry DPW= .� ' T�Oil - �y :., di 3 _ a 114 School Example 3: Located in southcentral Lubbock, Miller Elementary School shares a boundary with Kastman Park. A reciprocal interlocal agreement would make the school's playground equipment available to residents outside of operating hours. Other opportunities for interlocal agreements where school properties are adjacent to parks include Ramirez Elementary School and Roy Furr Pioneer Park, McWhorter Elementary School and Ease Maedgen Park, Guadalupe Elementary School and Guadalupe Park, and Honey Elementary School and Charles A. Guy Park. More information about interlocal agreements and the School -Park (SPARK) program is discussed further on page 2.93, sidebar. School Example 4: Lubbock ISD football stadium and track are situated within a residential neighborhood between University Avenue and Avenue Q in central Lubbock. Stumpy Hamilton Park is on the north side of the school and Carlisle Park is located to the south. School Example 5: Lubbock high school is located on the north side of 19th Street in central Lubbock. To the south is McCrummen Park and even further south is Dupre Elementary School. These sites are surrounded by residential areas. School Example 6: In northeast Lubbock are a group of four schools including the following: • Estacado High School • Alderson Elementary School • Bozeman Elementary School • Talkington School for Young Women Leaders To the west of this area is Mackenzie Park and George Woods Park to located to the northeast. These parks and school are situated within a large residential area. County Parks County parks offer parkland and recreational facilities that augment a community's park system and increase the overall park service area. Lubbock County operates four parks that can be used to offer more recreational opportunities to regional residents: Idalou/New Deal Park and Skatepark, Shallowater Park, Slaton/Roosevelt Park, and Precinct 1 Park. Cultural Resources Prehistoric and historic resources include the extant and tangible remains of past human activity and contribute to a community's unique sense of place through a contextually shared local narrative. Cultural resources such as district neighborhoods, historic properties, music venues and public art celebrate architectural and social legacies and can be integrated into a park system as heritage trails or corridors which can deepen linkages to a neighborhood, city, and region. They may also be used to enhance existing tourism and park -related initiatives. This section describes existing cultural resources in Lubbock. Public Art at Texas Tech University Source: Lubbock Cultural District A.._' `i Lubbock Cultural Districts Lubbock's Cultural District gives West Texans the opportunity to experience culture and art. The Lubbock Cultural District spans over 1.42 square miles and contains facilities catering to a variety of artistic interests including art, music, dance, and local history. Fourthemed neighborhoods in Lubbock are the Arts District between Broadway and 4th Street, Depot District between Broadway Street and 18th Street, Texas Tech University District located on the university's campus, and Canyon Lakes District located east of Downtown Lubbock. Venues include the Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences, Cactus Theater, Hemmle Recital Hall, and Caviel Museum of African American History. Historic Districts and Properties The Texas Historical Commission, Texas' state agency on historic preservation, has identified various historical and cultural resources in Lubbock. Lubbock boasts a robust architectural, cultural, and social history dating back to 1909: almost 1,300 important structures are designated in Texas Historical Commission's Cactus Theatre near Broadway Ave near Mae Simmons Park Source: Lubbock Cultural Arts i Live -work studios near Aztlan and Mackenzie Park Source: Lubbock Cultural District Lubbock Lake Landmark historic site Source: Marfa Public Radio, KTLA neighborhood survey, as well as over 30 historical markers, nine surviving residential properties, seven museums, four historic districts, three cemeteries, and one county courthouse. These resources contribute to Lubbock's unique built and cultural environment and promote destinations and tourism within Lubbock and the surrounding region. Historic buildings and structures, artwork and monuments are irreplaceable, and they reinforce social and cultural connections within the larger community. These resources potentially serve to bolster Lubbock's park system as historic destinations and community anchors. Prehistoric Resources Prehistoric and historic resources include the extant and tangible remains of past human activity and contribute to a community's unique sense of place through a contextually shared local narrative. Cultural resources such as district neighborhoods, historic properties, music venues and public art celebrate architectural and social legacies and can be integrated into a park system as heritage trails or corridors which can deepen linkages to a neighborhood, city, and region. They may also be used to enhance existing tourism and park -related initiatives. This section describes existing cultural resources in Lubbock. A a ,y National Ranching Heritage Center near Mackenzie Park and Mae Simmons Park Source: Visit Lubbock, Texas State Historical Society, KCBD Music and Performance Venues The City of Lubbock is home to several music and film venues that attract thousands of events and visitors annually such as Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences, Lubbock Memorial Civic Center, Cactus Theater, Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts (LHUCA) and The Bluelight Live. In 2020, Lubbock was designated as a Music Friendly Community by the Texas Music Office. The designation establishes Lubbock's reputation as a community with a vibrant music scene and rich pool of local talent. Enhancing access to these venues through Lubbock's park system leverages the City's statewide recognition as a music friendly city and supplements it with outdoor recreational destinations. Public Art An essential element of a community's visual appeal, attractiveness and contextual sense of place is public art. Fostering and promoting artistry, exhibitions, and public art initiatives enriches residents and visitors through intellectually stimulating and engaging infrastructure. Lubbock's site -specific art installations shape its urban identity by beautifying the landscape and tying the modern experience back to natural environment where artwork is installed. Lubbock's public art scene includes over 400 sculptures, paintings, murals, images, prints, and decorative storm drains and benches placed throughout the City. � ''f �f, "1F` F West Texas Walk of Fame, Buddy Holly statue Source: LubbockOnline.com coo 0®®� The West Texas Walk of Fame, located on the corner of 19th Street and Crickets Avenue, honors and recognizes local musicians who have developed and produced performing and visual arts. Additionally, Civic Lubbock, Inc. provides funding for several public art projects for placement in City of Lubbock facilities or on City property. Lubbock's landscape can be improved with additional investments in aesthetic treatments such as decorative walkways, entrances, and gateways to create a sense of place and additional public art. NW Strategy 1.5.1: Continue to utilize playas for recreational space. Playas should continue to serve the dual role of providing important drainage functions while also serving as places for recreational activities. Actions and Initiatives: Partner with the City's Water Department to identify overflow and non -overflow playas that could serve the dual function of providing drainage infrastructure and open space for recreational amenities. Strategy 1.5.2: Utilize drainage and utilities transmission corridors to support enhanced access and connectivity to recreational areas. Utility transmission corridors can provide important open space linkages and connections to parks and recreational resources. Actions and Initiatives: Partner with the City's Water Department and other public and quasi -public utility providers to utilize drainage and utilities transmission rights -of -way and easements which may serve the dual function of providing enhanced access and connectivity to recreational areas. Strategy 1.5.3: Develop a network of off- street, multi -use, active transportation corridors throughout the City of Lubbock. Utilize the City's drainage and electrical transmission corridors to serve the dual function of serving as multi -use pedestrian corridors, linking points of origin (residential subdivisions) with key commercial, recreational, and institutional (e.g., schools and libraries) destinations. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Partner with the City of Lubbock's Engineering Services, Utilities, and Water Departments to determine under what conditions utilities easements and rights -of -way can be utilized for active transportation corridors. 2. Approach Lubbock Power and Light, South Plains Electric Cooperative, inc., and other utility providers to determine the conditions upon which the LPARD can utilize their transmission rights -of -way for active transportation corridors. Strategy 1.5.4: Execute an interlocal agreement with Lubbock's ISDs for the use of recreational facilities after school hours. Partnerwith Lubbock's ISDs to determine how facilities may be equitably shared to advance recreational programming and stretch resources, for the benefit of Lubbock residents. Actions and Initiatives: Develop an interlocal agreement with with Frenship ISD (FISD) for the public's use of FISD's indoor gymnasium. 2. Develop an interlocal agreement with with Lubbock ISD (LISD) for the public's use of LISD's aquatics facilities. CenterPoint Utility Corridor Trail Source: Spring Branch Management District Interurban Utility Corridor Trail Source: Rails -to -Trails Conservancy 2.92 Strategy 1.5.5: Partner with Lubbock's Independent School Districts (ISDs) to develop a city-wide SPARK program. As discussed in the associated sidebar, SPARK parks has proven to be hugely successful program in Houston SPARK parks are an excellent way to create parks in developed areas that need additional park space for local residents. Actions and Initiatives 1. Partner with Lubbock ISD, Frenship ISD, and Lubbock -Cooper ISD to develop parks on ISD property which the LPARD will maintain. Strategy 1.5.6: Utilize Lubbock's parks to showcase and exhibit public art. The community of Lubbock has strong ties to arts and culture, showcased through community events, the Lubbock Cultural District, Texas Tech University, and numerous public gathering spaces. Parks are a major type of community gathering space and in turn serve to grow cultural and community identity. City owned land such as parks, public rights -of -way, and City property are spaces often dedicated for public art and community recognition. The abundance of parkland throughout Lubbock provides opportunities to strengthen community ties. LPARD should utilize parkland to showcase community artistic expression in the form of murals, sculptures, arts events, and amenity infrastructure. Actions and Initiatives: 1. The LPARD should partner with the Lubbock Arts Alliance to identify and implement ways that parkland can be utilized to showcase permanent art, semi -permanent art, art events / markets, artist commissions, and community center collaborations. 2. Consider dedicating sculptures in Lubbock parks. Cement sculpture platforms could be constructed to feature semi -permanent sculptures in prominent area of parks. Trailheads, performances pavilions, and community centers can also be utilized as prominent locations for sculpture. 3. Consider commissioning painted murals on blank walls in City parks such as at restroom facilities, maintenance sheds, and community centers. 4. Continue to expand community center youth programming based around arts and culture. 5. Consider additional ways that the parks budget can be increased for specific initiatives through arts and culture fundraisers/events such as tile painting commemorations, brick dedications, a sidewalk chalk festival, music events, or participatory live performance. Sidebar SPARK School Park Program, Houston, Texas Houston's SPARK School Park Program works with schools and neighborhoods to develop community parks on public school grounds. Since 1983, SPARK has built over 200 community parks throughout the Houston / Harris County area. Each park is unique, with its design based on ideas and needs of the school and surrounding neighborhoods. Using available public land is a fast and cost-effective way to increase park acreage in communities. While all the parks are different, a typical SPARK park includes modular playground equipment, a walking trail, seating, picnic tables, an outdoor classroom, and a component of public art. SPARK Parks are available for public use after the school day has ended, including after -school programs, as well as on weekends and holidays. Since 2016, the intitiative has focused on eliminating "park deserts" that exist in areas where residents are more than a half -mile or a 10-minute walk away from a public park. 2.93 Roberts Elementary SPARK Park Celebration Source: Rice Design Alliance Katy ISD SPARK Park Source: SPARKpark.org Travis Elementary Dinosaur SPARK Park Source: Project for Public Spaces Resource -based Assessment Summary • Lubbock's parks system can be supplemented by features in the City's landscape that have recreational and parkland value. These features may be natural such as playas and prairie land, built such as drainage channels and utility easements, or cultural such as historic properties, museums and music venues. By redeveloping a waterway, drainage channel, or utility easement into a cohesive park system, families and visitors could safely bike or walk from trail or = park segment in their immediate neighborhood to a , destination across town while eating, shopping and recreating locally. Implementing heritage corridors through Downtown Lubbock and nearby neighborhoods connects a concentration of parkland, cultural districts, arts organizations, and historic destinations with residential and commercial density. As a result, Lubbock can be a regional attraction of a significant creative placemaking caliber that provides plentiful opportunities for residents and visitors to seamlessly transition between multiple activities at varying scales and budgets. Summary of Findings Objective 1.1: Ensure an equitable distribution of connected and accessible parks, facilities, and open spaces throughout the community. • Approximately 80 percent of Lubbock's residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park. To achieve greater accessibility, the City should prioritize acquiring land that would be suitable to support park spaces and associated amenities. • While many residents are within a 10-minute walk of a park, barriers such as heavily -trafficked roads and major thoroughfares lack safe pedestrian facilities such as sidewalks or crosswalks. To address these barriers to connectivity, the city should examine pedestrian access to each park to ensure there is safe, equitable access to City of Lubbock parks. Objective 1.2: Improve the ecological function and environmental character of Lubbock's parks. • Lubbock's parks serve the valuable function of providing needed open space for the City's residents as well as provide needed space for stormwater collection, detention, and infiltration through the playa lakes. • LPARD should develop a program to restore and enhance the ecological functions of urban playas within the City's parks system. Healthy playas are important for recharging the Ogallala Aquifer. • LPARD should utilize micro -detention and low impact development practices when planting vegetation in and around parks to enable stormwater infiltration to clean and protect water quality. Additionally, LPARD should incorporate educational signage and displays to explain the ecological functions of these park elements. Objective 1.3: Enhance maintenance practices to ensure a network of high -quality parks and recreational facilities. • LPARD is in immediate need for a larger work force and better geographic distribution of citywide maintenance facilities. • LPARD should continue to utilize NRPA Park Metrics and refine operations -based metrics to establish optimal operations and maintenance thresholds. • LPARD should encourage the formation of volunteer organizations to help with beautification efforts at parks. "Friends of Lubbock's Parks" could help provide park clean-up efforts or beautification activities for communities. • To address low numbers in maintenance staff, LPARD should consider additional recruitment and retention incentives for maintenance staff and provide training opportunities to improve important skill sets. Objective 1A Enhance visitor experience through expanded parks programming. • There are many additonal amenities that could be added to Lubbock's parks which could significantly enhance the visitor experience. • LPARD should ensure that parks and open space areas are designed and maintained to accommodate the recreational interests and needs of all ages and demographics. • LPARD should consider providing outdoor recreation opportunities that meet the needs and interests of users of all abilities. Creating accessible infrastructure and facilities allows people of various ages and abilities to access recreational opportunities, as well as encourage community members to want to utilize the recreational facilites offered by the city. • LPARD should continue to support the development of non-traditional sports programming such as pickleball, disc golf, and skateboarding through facility development and open space allocation for activities. Objective 1.5: Utilize third -party resources to optimize Lubbock's system of parks and recreational facilities. • Lubbock's natural features are ideal for continued investment and, with minimal redevelopment, can be transformed into usable outdoor recreational opportunities. • LPARD should utilize drainage and utility transmission corridors to support enhanced access and connectivity to recreational areas. • The City of Lubbock should consider developing a network of off-street, multi -use active transportation corridors connecting to key commercial, recreational, and institutional destinations across Lubbock. • The City of Lubbock should utilize Lubbock's parks to showcase and exhibit public art to display community artistic expression in the form of murals, sculptures, and amenity infrastructure. LPARD should consider commissioning artists to paint murals on blank walls in city parks such asat restroom facilities, maintenance sheds, and community centers to improve visual appeal. 2.95 No Text Chapter 3 Sports And Athletic Facilities Table of Contents Introduction...............................................................................................................................................................3.1 Purpose......................................................................................................................................................................3.1 Sports and Athletics Facilities................................................................................................................................3.2 Table 3.1 Sports and Athletics Facilities Inventory....................................................................................................3.3 Map 3.1 Sports and Athletics Facilities in Lubbock..................................................................................................3.6 Table 3.2 City of Lubbock Outdoor Sports Fields and Courts Inventory............................................................3.9 Table 3.3 City of Lubbock Indoor Sports Fields and Courts Inventory...............................................................3.9 Sportsand Athletic Programming.........................................................................................................................3.10 Table 3.4 City of Lubbock Athletics Programs............................................................................................................3.10 Table 3.5 City of Lubbock Competitive Athletics Program Team Participation................................................3.10 Table 3.6 Third Party Athletic Programming................................................................................................................3.11 Table 3.7 Third Party Athletic Programming Participation......................................................................................3.12 Levelof Service Standards.....................................................................................................................................3.13 Table 3.8 Competitive Analysis Benchmark..............................................................................................................3.13 Table 3.9 Existing and Proposed Level of Service with NRPA Competitive Analysis Benchmark..............3.14 Table 3.10 Facilities Needs Analysis..............................................................................................................................3.14 Facility and Demand Needs Based Standards and Deficit Identification.......................................................3.15 Strategies and Recommendations........................................................................................................................3.17 Existing Sports and Athletic Facilities Improvements Recommendations....................................................3.23 Table 3.11 Existing Facility Improvement Recommendations................................................................................3.23 Future Sports and Athletic Facilities Improvements Recommendations.......................................................3.25 Table 3.12 Future Facility Improvement Recommendations..................................................................................3.25 Summaryof Findings...............................................................................................................................................3.26 Introduction Chapter 3, Sports andAthletles Facilities, of The City of Lubbock Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan, provides an overview of the existing conditions of Lubbock's sports and athletics fields and includes a detailed inventory of each of the City -owned facilities that serve the local outdoor athletic needs of the City. Additionally, the chapter reviews existing and proposed facility Level of Service standards, needs demands, and strategies and recommendations for the City's sports field infrastructure to grow at a pace that matches the athletic needs of a growing City. Purpose The main goal of this chapter is to provide the City of Lubbock with a systematic plan for investing and growing its athletics facility infrastructure to meet the needs of the City as derived from City leadership, City staff, and resident input. Specifically, this chapter focuses on the City's inventory and condition of game, special -use and tournament quality fields and courts in its park system. These facilities are defined as those that host league or tournament games and also have the support amenity infrastructure (lights, scoreboards, bleachers, restrooms, off- street parking, etc.) to support those games. Practice facilities are categorized as fields and courts that are considered amenities at the park for everyday use but not specifically for league and tournament play. Practice facilities are not considered part of the inventory of this chapter and are included as part of the Chapter 2 park amenities. In order to achieve this goal of growing the City's athletic facilities as the City grows, an understanding of the demand needs for athletic facilities in the City must be placed in context. The first step of this process is understanding the existing inventory of Lubbock's City -owned sports and athletic facilities, both in quantity and quality. This chapter documents the major park facilities that house those athletic amenities with a numeric inventory and a condition assessment. This inventory is benchmarked against comparison cities in the region utilizing National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) standards regarding the level of service and other metrics. From these comparisons, Level of Service standards specific to the City of Lubbock were normalized to ensure growth in the quality and inventory of game day athletic facilities as the population of the City and the demands of that population grows. The identification of where the City of Lubbock is in relationship to those standards provides the framework for strategies and recommendations to grow both the number and quality of the athletic facilities in the City. In addition, highlighted improvements at existing and proposed facilities provide the prioritization and investment dollars needed for City Leadership to continue to grow its sports and athletic facilities as part of an ordered, systematic plan. Al Outdoor Sports and Athletics Facilities Three regional parks, one community park, and six neighborhood parks provide sports and athletic facilities for Lubbock residents. Additionally, there are four sports complexes in Lubbock's park system offering a range of facilities for sports and athletic game and tournaments. They include the Berl Huffman Athletic Complex, the Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center, the Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex, and the M LK Sports Complex. Table 3.1, Sports andAth/etics Facilities Inventory, on pages 3.3 - 3.5, details the number and types of games and tournament sports amenities available in sports complexes and other parks by the City of Lubbock. Map 3.1, SportsandAth/etics Facilities, on page 3.6, illustrates the location of the sports complexes and the other City -owned parks in Lubbock with game quality sports fields. Regional Parks McAlister Park The athletic facilities offered at McAlister Park include four lighted baseball fields. Each field is of tournament quality with lighting and natural grass outfields. Only one field, the Challenger Field, has a synthetic turf infield. All fields have shaded spectator areas and elevated scorekeeper observation buildings. There is convenient access to a central restroom/ concession building, and off-street parking to the north and south of the complex provides easy vehicular access to the complex. K.N. Clapp Park A 325 ft. baseball field resides at Clapp Park. Known as Hodges Field, this baseball diamond is utilized by Trinity Christian School for games. A competition, lighted flag football field is also situated northeast of the Hodges Community Center. Off-street parking is available for these two sports amenities. K.N. Clapp Park Source: LUCK Design Team Mackenzie Park (Dirk West Athletic Complex) As part of 387-acres located in northeast Lubbock, Mackenzie Park consists of one youth softball field, three adult softball fields, and one full-size baseball field. A centrally located restroom and playground area services all five fields, and all parking is located on - street. Each field is lighted. The facilities are not fully compliant with ADA accessibility standards, and shade is limited. A City of Lubbock Parks Maintenance Facility is located adjacent to and west of the complex. Mackenzie Park ' Source: LUCK Design Team u, ,....... us u u. Source: LUCK Design Team 3.2 3.3 Community Parks J.B. Maxey Park Maxey Park has three baseball fields and one t-ball field Two of the baseball fields are managed by Southwest Little League, as is the t-ball field. These two baseball fields are tournament quality, complete with field lighting, covered spectator areas, and a restroom/ concessions building. In addition, there is off-street parking servicing these two fields. The t-ball field is south of the two Southwest Little League fields and is a game quality field as well. However, it is not gated, nor does it have shade -covering at its spectator areas. Jack Lewis Park Source: LUCK Design Team Table 3.1, Sports and Athletics Facilities Inventory Bill McAlister Park K. N. Clapp Park Mackenzie Park J. B. Maxey Park Helen M. Hodges Park Jack Lewis Park Mahon Park Northwest Little League Fields Lou Stubbs Park Mose Hood Park Berl Huffman Athletic Complex Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex M LK Complex On the park's west side, there is a youth baseball field which is managed by Hub City Little League. This field is lighted and includes a restroom/ elevated scorekeeper building, shaded dugouts, and spectator areas. Unfortunately, no off-street parking exists for this field. Neighborhood Parks Helen M. Hodges Park The two baseball fields that constitute Hodges Park are unique in that they are located in a primarily industrial area of the City. Northwest Little League utilizes them. They are considered game fields, although they are currently not being utilized for league game play. Each field has lighting, but there is no shade over the player dugouts or spectator seating areas. A half -court basketball court and volleyball court are ancillary park Helen M. Hodges Park Source: LUCK Design Team 1 4 MBfflfflfflMMMMN 3 16 16 13 11 1 1 13 6 3 4 I I 8 3 1 1 1 I4 I8 I4 1 3 6 2 3 6 3 amenities at the site but do not host league games. Off- street parking and a restroom building are incorporated centrally into the athletic amenities. Jack Lewis Park This baseball complex provides four tournament - quality youth baseball fields for Lubbock residents. The complex is currently used and maintained by Frenship Little League. Centered around a restroom/ concessions building, each field is lighted and has covered spectator seating. Mahon Park LPARD utilizes two lighted sand volleyball courts for adult league play. Bleachers and off-street parking encompass the facility. J.B. Maxey Park Source: LUCK Design Team Northwest Little League Fields Located at the northwest intersection of N. University Avenue and Clovis Road, these three youth baseball fields are the primary game fields for Northwest Little League and are tournament quality. Each field is 200 ft. to the outfield fence and is complete with covered bleacher areas and field lighting. In addition, a restroom/concessions building and off-street parking are located at the complex as support amenities to the ball fields. Lou Stubbs Park The main sports facilities at Lou Stubbs Park are two game softball fields. Each field shares an adjacent restroom building and has field area lighting. On -site parking bay services both the ball field areas as well as a skatepark, playground, and concrete volleyball court amenity. Northwest Little League Fields Source: LUCK Design Team Table 3.1, Sports and Athletics Facilities Inventory (continued) Bill McAlister Park K. N. Clapp Park Mackenzie Park J. B. Maxey Park Helen M. Hodges Park Jack Lewis Park Mahon Park Northwest Little League Fields Lou Stubbs Park Mose Hood Park Berl Huffman Athletic Complex Burgess -Rushing 4 16 1 1 16 Tennis Center Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex MLKComplex I I f Neighborhood Parks (Continued) Mose Hood Park This centrally located park has two softball fields. They are considered game fields, although they are currently not being utilized for league game play. Field lights are provided for both ball fields, although neither field has a scoreboard. Off-street parking is provided, and one restroom building is located on -site. Four tennis courts and two volleyball courts reside on site but do not host competitive or organized recreational matches. These courts are inventoried in detail as part of the park amenities in Chapter 2. Mose Hood Park Source: LUCK Design Team Berl Huffman Athletic Complex net covered benches and seating Source: LUCK Design Team Mose Hood Park diamond field bench conditions Source: LUCK Design Team 3.5 Park Key 01 : Andrews, Clifford Park _ — — — — - 02 : Aztlan Park 03 : Aztlan Park Link / 04 : Berry Park 05: Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center 06: Burns Park z 07 : Bulter Park / 08 : Carlisle Park / 09 : Carter Park / a 10 : Casey, David Park 11 : Chatman, J.A. Park 12 : Clapp, K.N. Park 13 : Cooke, Alex & Verna Park / 14: Crow, Earl Park / 15 : Davies, Judge Walter Park 16 : Davis, A.B. Park 17 : Davis, LT. Col. George A. Jr. Park 18 : Dupree, George W. Park 19 : Duran, Dr. Armando Park / 20 : Elmore, Leroy Park / 21 : Furr, Ray -Pioneer Park 22 : Gateway Plaza 23 : Guadalupe Park 24 : Guy, Charles Park 25: Hamilton, Stumpy Park Kent St. 26: Higinbotham Park 27: Hinojosa Fields 28 : Hodges, Helen Park 29 : Hoel, Phil Park 30 : Hollins Park U_ neSt. 31 : Holly, Buddy & Maria Elena Park 32 : Holly, Buddy Recreation Center • 33 : Hood, Mose Park 34 : Huffman, Berl Athletic Center 35: Huneke, Henry War Memorial Park Erskine St. 36 : Jennings. Jan Park 37: Kastman Park 38 : Lakewood Development Area 39 : Leftwich, M. Park 40 : Lewis, Jack Park 41 : Long, Buster Park 0010 42 : Lopez, Richard Park 17 43 : Lubbock Youth Sports Complex 44: Lusk, Willie Park 45: Mackenzie Park 114 46: Maedgen, E. Park 47 : Mahon, George Park 48 : Maxey Park 41 49 : McAlister, Bill Park 50: McCrummen Park 51 : McCullough, B. Park 52 : Meadowbrook Golf Course _ 53 : Miller, Bill &Ann Park m 54: MLK Complex n n n 55 : Neugebauer, Randy Park 56: Overton, M.C. Park 57 : Pallotine Park tt 58 : Ratliff, W. Park 59 : Rawlings, Copper Park — — — — — — — — — — — — — 60 : Reagan, Naomi Park 61 : Remington Park J 62 : Ribble, O.W. Park • 63 : Rodgers Park 64: Sedberry, Will Park 65: Simmons, Mae Park 66: Sims, Gladys Park - 67: Smith, Preston Park T 68 : Stevens, Jack Park 69 : Strong, Jack & Mary Nell Park 70 : Stubbs Park 71 : Tech Terrace Park 72 : Tim Cole Memorial Park 73 : Underwood Park ® • 74 : Wagner Park 75: Washington Park 76 : Wheelock Park 77: Whisperwood Median 78 : Woods, George Park r — — — — — — — — — — — — J 79 : Consquistador Lake 80 : Llano Estacado Lake 81 : Comancheria Lake/ Canyon Rim 82 : Dunbar Historical Lake LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN ` Client: City of Lubbock \ Consultants: HalffAssociates, Inc, \ Data Sources: City of Lubbock, Texas 1294 Drew St. LEGEND Keuka St. Sports Complex r Aquatic Facility Football Field Baseball Field Softball Field (Adult Slow Pitch and Girls Fastpitch) Soccer Field n � Tennis Court zsal • , Pickleball Court L Regis St. ' M � Basketball Court 6 Kent St. Volleyball Court 1 VuccaLn. T Lubbock City Limits w _ Lubbock ETJ • 34 289 - — Interstate • a State Road e 79 0 ` a- e�ot. Principal Arterial Road V m C / Erskine St. Major Collector Street 52 Minor Arterial Street Minor Collector Street Local Road 4ih St. e �� Rail line 64 Water Body Public / Institutional 1 th - 191h _ Parks i - ui.��r r uu�. �1uu�Tuu� �'u WEE 1r W0■ 0M1 � ��� ImJ'n ■` 1 mile 2 3 1 inch = 8,333 feet i MAP 3.1: / SPORTS AND ATHLETIC FACILITIES / IN LUBBOCK / July 2022 J-J-_�=_L--�---=-----IL v Woodrow Rd. ?_�i in. LL i ----- r do AA i • o • 1 1 . � 1 I • dl, , O • O . • . At • 4 — . • ' o 46 fir �i iI Sports FacilitileS Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex Berl Huffman Athletic Complex Located at the southwestern edge of Lubbock, the Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex is comprised Located on 114-acres north of Loop 289, the Berl of 12 girls' fastpitch softball fields and four youth Huffman Athletic Complex is comprised of four adult baseball fields. The layout of the fields is oriented into softball fields and 49 soccer fields. The softball complex four -field wagon wheel clusters. These quads are color is arranged in a wagon -wheel configuration around an coordinated: green, red, silver, and blue, with the blue elevated restroom/ concessions building. The soccer quad corresponding to baseball. Each wagon wheel is fields are located around the perimeter of the softball positioned around a restroom/ concessions building, fields. Four of the soccerfields are synthetic turf and an elevated, accessible scorekeeper building is surfaced fields and have lighting. These four fields can located behind the home plate at each field. Two batting be segmented into eight smallerfields. The remaining cages service the softball fields. A central parking fields are natural grass, non -lighted fields, with many of corridor defines the interior spine for the complex, while the fields configured into smaller fields to accommodate a parks maintenance facility marks the east end of the play for children and youth. complex. The complex's primary attraction includes stadium Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center seating at the softball fields. Three restrooms are located inclose proximity to the soccer fields. A central component of the City of Lubbock's park system is the Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center. It has 16 fully lighted tennis courts surrounding a pro shop. Four of the courts have championship -level spectator seating. The Center additionally subdivides two tennis courts with temporary lines and netting to create six courts for pickleball play. Because these pickleball courts are not permanent, they are not included in the inventory for this chapter. it s Berl Huffman Athletic Complex Source: LUCK Design Team Thomas A. Wrtin Youth Sports Complex Source: LUCK Design Team do • i - AP MLK Sports Complex Three fields comprise the MLK Sports Complex. The Dr. F. L. Lovings youth baseball field is located at 24th Street and MLK Boulevard in Mae Simmons Park. Support amenities at the lighted field include a restroom/ concessions building with an elevated scorekeeper perch, shaded dugouts, non -shaded spectator areas, and off-street parking. Two more youth baseball fields that are part of the MLK Sports Complex are located east of Dunbar Historical Lake. These sports diamonds are the easternmost athletic facility in Lubbock. A restroom/ concessions building, shaded dugouts/ spectator areas, elevated scorekeeper buildings, and off-street parking are located at these two fields. Naariiaplii2022 Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex Source: Nearmap Imagery 2022 MLK Sports Complex (E. 24th Street and MLK Boulevard) Source: LUCK Design Team Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center Source: Nearmap Imagery 2022 MLK Sports Complex Source: Nearmap Imagery 2022 da Indoor Sports and Athletics Facilities The City of Lubbock currently has one indoor facility that is utilized for recreational sports league play. Rodgers Gym, located at 3200 Bates Street, has one indoor volleyball court. Basketball goals are located at this same court, but the court itself is not full-size for basketball. An adult volleyball league plays its matches at Rodgers Gym. Although 3v3 basketball leagues have been organized at the court in the past, the City of Lubbock no longer offers this league due to the limited court size. Table 3.2, City of Lubbock OUTDOOR Sports Fields and Courts Inventory Basketball Courts p Diamond Baseball, Youth, Game 23 Diamond Baseball, Teen/ Adult 3 Diamond Softball, Girls Fast Pitch, 17 Game Diamond Softball, Adult 7 Rectangle Fields, Soccer 49 Rectangle Fields, Football/ Lacrosse 1 Pickleball Courts p Tennis Courts 16 Sand Volleyball Courts 2 Sports and Athletics Facilities Inventory Table 3.2 and Table 3.3 provide an inventory synopsis of the number of sports facilities offered for each particular sport that currently exists in the City of Lubbock park system. Table 3.3, City of Lubbock INDOOR Sports Fields and Courts Inventory Basketball Courts p Swimming Facility p Volleyball Courts 1 A team plays a game of softball Source: City of Lubbock 0 0 45 0 0 8 0 53 Table 3.5, City of Lubbock Competitive Athletics Sports and Athletics Program Team Participation Programming The LPARD provides several athletic program Baseball 6 0 0 0 opportunities for adults. As illustrated in Table 3.4 City Basketball 8 0 0 7 ofLub.bockAth/et/c Programs, the athletic programs Softball 314 254 254 154 offered by the LPARD currently include softball, kickball, Kickball 37 28 19 10 indoor volleyball, and sand volleyball leagues for adults. Volleyball 50 38 35 37 Additionally, the City offers learning classes geared Sand Volleyball 0 0 13 7 towards youth participation in basketball, soccer, and Flag Football 14 18 0 0 baseball. Total 429 338 321 215 Table 3.4, City of Lubbock Athletics Programs Softball Adult Spring, Summer, Fall Berl Huffman Complex Kickball Adult Spring, Summer, Fall Mackenzie Park Volleyball Adult Fall, Winter Rodgers Gym Sand Volleyball Adult Summer Mahon Park Table 3.5, CityofLubbock CompetitiveAdu/tSports Program Team Participation, details the number of teams participating in the City -sponsored competitive adult sports program for the years 2016 through 2020. As discussed earlier in this chapter, the LPARD partners with athletic organizations that offer competitive baseball, softball, football, and soccer league experience for the City's youth. Pickball game at the Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center Source: LubbocksHomeAndFamily.com Maxey Park consessions Source: LUCK Design Team 3.10 Table 3.6, ThirdPartyAth/eticProgramming, details the athletic programs offered by entities other than the City of Lubbock. These entities are primarily sports associations and leagues for youth and adults. They offer baseball, softball, girls' fastpitch, basketball, cricket, and soccer programs for a variety of ages throughout the year. Participation in these third -party associations and leagues for the years 2015 to 2019 is described in Table 3.7, Third PartyAth/etic Programming Participation. Table 3.6, Third Party Athletic Programming Adult Softball League in the City of Lubbock Source: City of Lubbock Western Little League Ages 4-16 Spring McAlister Park Southwest Little League Ages 4-16 Spring, Fall Maxey Park MLK Little League Northwest Little League Lubbock Cooper Little League Lubbock Junior/ Intermediate Baseball Challenger Little League Ages 4-16 Spring Dunbar Historical Lake Ages 4-16 Ages 4-16 - Spring, Fall Spring, Fall - Buddy Holly Recreation Area Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex Dixie Junior Field Ages 4-16 Spring McAlister Park Hub City Baseball - Spring Maxey Junior Field Lubbock Youth Softball Ages 6-12 Spring, Fall Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex South Plains Girls Fastpitch Ages 6-18 Spring, Fall Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex Lubbock Soccer Association West Texas Men's Soccer Association Texas Tech Club Baseball Lubbock Senior Softball Lubbock Cricket Club Ages 4-17 Spring, Fall Berl Huffman Athletic Complex Adult Throughout the year Berl Huffman Athletic Complex Adult Spring Mackenzie Park Connie Mack Field Adult / Seniors Spring Mackenzie Park Field Adult Throughout the year Mackenzie Park Imi 3.11 Soccer Field at Berl Huffman Sports Complex Source: Halff Associates Challenger Field at McAlister Park Source: City of Lubbock Table 3.7, Third Party Athletic Programming Participation Frenship Youth Baseball Frenship Youth Baseball (Fall) MLK Little League Northwest Little League Northwest Little League (Fall) J Southwest Little League J m Southwest Little League (Fall) N Western Little League CO Western Little League (Fall) Challenger Little League Hub City Baseball - - - - - 1127 540 - - - - - - - 222 233 216 230 159 10 - 204 222 200 222 174 - 106 - 112 170 - - - - 420 363 326 388 380 304 343 - - 300 377 - 703 565 471 783 162 466 515 _ 562 511 452 393 _ _ _ _ _ 161 163 - 160 - - 175 193 200 164 118 57 198 Hub City Baseball (Fall) Lubbock Cooper Little League Lubbock Cooper Little League (Fall) - - - - - 31 - 457 456 562 470 709 550 753 570 545 637 - 787 - 682 Lubbock Youth Softball J 477 - 260 240 283 - - J Lubbock Youth Softball (Fall) a mSouth Plains Girls Fastpitch N South Plains Girls Fastpitch (Fall) Lubbock Senior Softball 175 - 99 135 257 312 262 479 515 568 546 481 - 404 485 490 132 480 465 351 132 148 137 129 120 119 100 104 Lubbock Soccer Association (Spring Session) 2,411 2,705 2,529 2,016 2,162 - 2,622 Uj W Lubbock Soccer Association (Fall Session) 2,356 2,305 2,255 2,368 2,421 2,203 3,209 OWest Texas Men's Soccer Association (Spring) V1 West Texas Men's Soccer Association (Summer) West Texas Men's Soccer Association (Fall) T T 406 - 164 164 - - - 82 165 - 164 82 - - - - 178 142 - - - 9,524 8,933 5,976 10,213 10,067 8,915 10,095 ±F; K11Y Level of Service Standards A standard park planning tool established by NRPA and utilized by parks departments across the United States is the use of Level of Service standards. This instrument employs a combination of the inventory of park amenities and a City's population to establish a ratio of park amenities = per 1,000 population base. For example, if a city has four soccer fields in its park inventory and a population of 20,000 people, it has a Level of Service specific to soccer of one soccer field/ 5,000 people. Because all community needs are different, there is not a one -size -fits -all ratio for Level of Service amenities from city to city; however, a comparison of Level of Service Standards between cities does provide a benchmark and context with which to view a city's park amenities compared to its own population. Table 3.8, Competitive Ana/ysis Benchmark, below provides a Level of Service analysis with cities in the West Texas region and cities that the City of Lubbock could be potentially competing with in the future to host sports tournaments in the area. The benchmark level of service indicated is for game tournament fields only; practice ares or fields that are not up to game standards are not included in this analysis. Table 3.8, Competitive Analysis Benchmark Game Ready Field at J.B. Maxey Park Located in Central Lubbock Source: LUCK Design Team Diamond Baseball, 1:11,402 1:41,277 1:9,165 1:8,343 1:3,024 1:8,781 1:20,254 Youth. Game Diamond Baseball, Teen/ 1:87,420 1:206,385 1 1:23,830 1:33,373 1:34,022 1:83,422 1:20,508 Adult Diamond Softball, Girls 1:15,427 1:41,277 1:9,165 1:20,023 1:15,021 1:27,807 1:5,786 Fast Pitch, Game 1:14,302 1:17,011 Diamond Softball, Adult 1:37,465 1:13,759 1:14,893 1: 20,855 1:6,751 Rectangle Fields, Soccer 1:5,352 1:18,762 1:23,830 1:16,686 1:2,474 1:8,342 1:3,375 Rectangle Fields, 1:262,261 1:103,192 1:119,150 0 1:22,681 1:166,843 1:40,508 Football/ Lacrosse Pickleball Courts 0 1:18,762 1:39,716 0 0 0 1:6.751 Tennis Courts 1:16,391 1:10,319 1:7,943 0 0 1:41,710 0 Sand Volleyball Courts 1:131,130 1:25,798 1:59,575 1:20,023 1:17,011 1:23,834 1:5,786 Sources: City of Amarillo Level of Service Standards: "City of Amarillo Parks and Recreation Master Plan". Dated: 2021. City of Abilene Level of Service Standards: "Abilene Parks, Recreation and Senior Facilities Master Plan". Dated: 2014 City of San Angelo Level of Service Standards: "The City of San Angelo Parks and Recreation Master Plan".Dated: 2020. City of Midland Level of Service Standards: "Midland Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan". Dated: 2020. City of Odessa Level of Service Standards: "Odessa Sports Field Study'. Dated 2020. City of Hobbs, New Mexico Level of Service Standards: "City of Hobbs New Mexico Comprehensive Community Development Plan". Dated: 2004 (Development LOS Standards Only; Existing LOS Information compiled by LUCK Design Team) https://data.census.gov/cedsci/profile?g=1600000US3532520 for Hobbs, New Mexico 3.13 Table 3.9, Existing and Proposed Level of Service with NRPA Competitive Analysis Benchmark Diamond Baseball, Youth, Game Diamond Baseball, Teen/ Adult 1:11,402 1:6,763 1:20,159 1:23,619 1:10,000 1:48,657 1:88,000 1:87,420 Diamond Softball, Girls Fast Pitch 1:15,427 1:11,287 1:43,670 1:12,000 Diamond Softball, Adult Rectangle Fields, Soccer Rectangle Fields, Football/ Lacrosse Pickleball Courts Tennis Courts 1:37,465 1:13,510 1:35,875 1:20,000 1:32,649 1:5,000 1:78,656 1:100,000 No Recommendation 1:16,500 1:9,997 1:16,500 1:5,352 1:262,261 1:7,192 1:25,977 0 No Recommendation 1:16,391 1:5,089 Sand Volleyball Courts 1:131,130 1:20,000 1:70,287 1:25,000 Source: * - 2021 NRPAAgency Performance Standards review, page 9. http://www.nrpa.org/siteassets/2021-agency-performance- review_final.pdf Table 3.10, Facilities Needs Analysis 2021 - Pop. 260,993 2032 - Pop. 345,000 Diamond Baseball, Youth, Game 23 1:10,000 1:88,000 27 3 4 0 35 4 12 1 Diamond Baseball, Teen/Adult 3 Diamond Softball, Girls Fast Pitch 17 1:12,000 22 5 29 12 Diamond Softball, Adult 7 1:20,000 14 7 18 11 Rectangle Fields, Soccer 49 1:5,000 53 4 69 20 Rectangle Fields, Football/ Lacrosse 1:100,000 1:16,500 3 16 2 16 4 21 3 21 1 Pickleball Courts 0 Tennis Courts 1:16,500 16 0 21 5 16 Sand Volleyball Courts 2 1:25,000 11 9 14 12 3.14 Facility and Demand Needs - Based Standards and Deficit Identification Covered bleacher seating at Northwest Little League Park Source: LUCK Design Team Need Based On Practice, Game, and Tournament Quality Facilities As the Level of Service Table 3.10, Facilities Needs Analysis indicates, the existing level of service for sports facilities is at a deficit compared to existing demand needs. Pickleball and Rectangle Fields for Football / Soccer comprise the largest deficit variance. This echoes the demands -based input received from survey responses and different sports associations throughout the City for the need for more fields to host tournaments and league game play. More fields are needed to support the growing bases of recreational and select baseball, softball, and soccer associations. These entities are reaching a cap threshold because they cannot support a large base with the limited number of facilities available for game day and practice. In turn, the size of tournaments that the City of Lubbock can host is limited due to the lack of game day fields. As a result, some Lubbock parents are attracted to other sister cities with high quality fields for leagues or Select play groups and also to those same cities for tournaments for the same reason. Covered Bleacher Seating at Berl Huffman Sports Complex Source: LUCK Design Team 3.15 Need Based on the Geographic Distribution (of Practice, Game, and Tournament Quality Facilities) Equity of distribution and mobile accessibility to the fields establishes another demand -based need for facilities. The Berl Huffman Athletic Complex, located at the north end of the City, is the only large venue for soccer. There are no other extensive soccer -based facilities located in the City. Gamedayfieldsforyouth baseball/softball are primarily located along the Loop or outside the Loop (Northwest Little League Fields, McAlister Park, and the Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex at FM 1585. Lewis Park and Maxey Park house game day fields with the Loop, albeit in fewer numbers and west of Interstate 27. Need Based on Condition (of Practice, Game, and Tournament Quality Facilities) A large percentage of the sports fields are maintained by the sports associations that use the facilities, with the City providing game day services such as striping and field preparation. The quality of the fields is thereby largely determined by the resources of time and money allocated by the sports associations that use and maintain them. If the resources are there, the fields are maintained at a high level; if they are not, the playing conditions and visual appearance of the fields is poor. However, most residents and patrons at the omas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex ource: LUCK Design Team facilities do not distinguish that the facilities are largely maintained by private entities. Instead, they are viewed as "Lubbock" fields, and therefore, any fields that are in poor condition are viewed through the lens that the City of Lubbock is not maintaining. Several facilities, such as Mose Hood Park and Hodges Park, are maintained at a level such that the fields are not genuinely providing the intended function for which they were planned. This statement is true largely for fields that were constructed for practice and games; many of the facilities that host tournaments are maintained at a high level to support those tournaments. For a perception shift to occur to increase the quality of sports facility upkeep, the City will need to allocate additional resources (staffing, equipment, and materials) beyond the current level. Need Based on City of Lubbock Strategic Initiatives for Enhanced Quality of Life and Sports Tourism. City leadership has the vision that improving its sports facilities will enhance the Quality of Life of its residents and to draw more visitors to the City for sports tourism. Providing quality places for sports recreation is embraced by current residents. Parks can attract visitors to the City and is also part of promoting and encouraging students and graduates of Texas Tech University to want to stay in Lubbock post -graduation. Strategies and Recommendations Goal 2.0 Sports and Athletic Facilities and programs that meet the recreational, practice, game, and tournament objectives of a growing community. The City of Lubbock sports and athletic facilities provide athletic opportunities to two distinct types of user groups. The first is for the citizens of Lubbock who utilize the fields for organized and unorganized recreational play. This use may be sponsored by the City or association -based leagues; or by individual residents who utilize the facilities of their own accord. Secondly, the facilities are also used as host fields for tournament venues, and as a direct and indirect economic driver for the City. These two types of user groups have very different end goals in mind regarding the use and condition of sports field facilities. Local users tend to favor the sports and athletic facilities being near their homes and neighborhoods, enveloped with a sense of safety and security, clean and well -maintained to serve the primary function for which the facility was intended. On the other hand, patrons using the fields for tournament play expect a higher standard of field maintenance and spectator comforts (e.g.,shade, Wi-Fi capabilities, higher -end materials used for construction, etc.). Strategies and recommendations for the City of Lubbock are organized in this chapter with these two different user group expectations in mind. Sports fields and courts located in community parks and neighborhood parks have a particular objective and associated strategies geared toward local use. In contrast, regional parks and special use parks consisting of sports and athletic facilities (those which would typically host a tournament and competitive play sporting events) have another objective and set of strategies as set forth below. Objective 2.1 Enhance the quality of the sports game and practice fields for local residents and the opportunity of residents to use them. Strategy 2.1.1: Provide Equitable and Accessible distribution of sports facilities. Currently, sports facilities within the City utilized for practice or recreational play tend to be located inside Loop 289 and predominantly clustered along either side of the Interstate 27 Corridor. While the larger sports facilities of the Berl Huffman Athletic Complex and the Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex are used by local residents for practice and local league play, the need exists for a better geographical distribution of practice fields throughout the interior of the City. This can be accomplished by using existing unprogrammed open space for infield practice and small -sided play. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Increase the number of practice fields throughout the City, particularly within the interior of Loop 289. • Add backstops and play areas within the existing parks throughout the City. • Develop a park selection criteria for parks that could best accommodate these amenities. • Program practice fields in all new community parks greater than six acres in size. • Require developers to construct a backstop, and a minimum 1/4 acre play open plan area within all -new neighborhood parks, whether City -owned or HOA administered. • Explore potential partnerships through the use of inter -local agreements with ISDs and third -party parks/open space operators to provide access to athletic fields and support facilities. Reference "Chapter 2 Lubbock's Parks", Strategy 1.5.4 on page 2.94. This Backstop at K.N. Clapp Park Provides Space for Infield Practice Source: LUCK Design Team 3.17 Diamond Playing Field at Hood Park Source: LUCK Design Team 2. Explore the location of practice and game fields along alternative transportation routes. • As summarized in the Resource -based Assessment section of this chapter, prioritize the location of practice and game athletic facilities with existing and proposed on -street bike lanes, off-street multi -use, shared -use paths and recreational trails, and public transit routes. Strategy 2.1.2: Provide high -quality recreation athletic fields and courts designated for general public use. Although local sports practice fields are not envisioned for high- end competitive play, there should be an established quality -of -facility expectation that the sports facilities be manicured and ready for their intended play. Therefore, these fields should be designed, established, and functional. Actions and Initiatives: Formulate and initiate a quality control/ maintenance work plan outlining service standards for facility maintenance levels. This should include the level of upkeep expected for full practice fields and practice backstop areas: • Level fields free of undulations. • Unencumbered with prairie dog holes • Free of weeds on the perimeter (i.e., edged) • Clean and free of trash and debris 2. Replace chain link netting at tennis and volleyball courts existing nets are damaged or rusted. 3. All game areas for general recreational use should be accompanied by field area lights. Where appropriate, these fixtures should be LED lighting. 4. Parking areas that support these game field areas should also have light standards to allow for ambient lighting as people move from playing on the fields/ courts to getting to their vehicles. Soccer Facility located at Berl Huffman Athletic Complex Source: LUCK Design Team 5. Resurface/ replace cracked sports courts. Sports court amenities (including tennis courts, basketball courts, and hard -surfaced volleyball courts) shall be prioritized for replacement or resurfacing so that their intended recreational use can be used in a safe and intended recreational manner. 6. Foster a working relationship with the Lubbock Police Department and ensure regular patrol patterns to discourage unwanted activity in the park. Strategy 2.1.3: Ensure a standard/eve/of quality in the operations and maintenance of the coca/game and practice fieio's. Currently, many of the sports fields in the City are maintained on a daily and seasonal basis by the individual sports associations who use them for practice or league game play. Because there are different levels of maintenance standards between groups and different levels of allocated funding forfield upkeep, field conditions vary widely from one field to another across the City. The City of Lubbock needs to develop a standard level of sports facility management, including operations and maintenance, that ensures a consistent level of care throughout the City, regardless of geographical or political jurisdictions in which they reside. This management program will ensure that the Actions and Initiatives outlined in Strategy 2.1.3 are upheld. This standard will likely require additional resources (staffing, equipment, and materials) in orderto be obtained. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Formulate and Initiate a quality control/ maintenance work plan in conjunction with Strategy 2.1.2, Action 1. 1919-11 Objective 2.2: Position the City of LubbocWs sports complexes to draw more regional and state tournaments As the City's sports participation numbers continue to grow in a post-Covid-19 era, Lubbock's sports associations and Lubbock Sports have stated the need to increase the inventory of high -quality sports facilities to attract tournaments to Lubbock. Unfortunately, there is currently a dearth in the existing number and type of facilities needed to be competitive for hosting regional and state tournaments. Strategy 2.2.1: Increase the number of playing fields to host larger tournaments. In referencing the Berl Huffman Athletic Complex (soccer/adult softball) and the Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex (Girls Fast Pitch and Youth Baseball), the City of Lubbock has historically had a planning model for locating large numbers of sports specific, tournament quality fields in areas outside Loop 289. As Table 3.8, 'Facilities NeeafsAna/ys/s"indicates, the City has a projected deficit of fields for all diamond sports and soccer. This strategy encompasses the continuation of adding large sports -specific facilities in each sport type to reach the recommended level of service. Infield Ready for Play at Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex Source: LUCK Design Team Actions and Initiatives. 1. Identify where other sports complexes can be located and where existing facilities can be upgraded to meet tournament standards. • Add a complex of four to eight fields for Diamond Baseball, Youth • Provide sports field lighting at the teen/adult field at the Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex for Diamond Baseball, Teen • Upgrade the four fields at the Blue Quad of the Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex to turf for Diamond Softball, Girls Fast Pitch • Upgrade the four softball fields at the Berl Huffman Athletic Sports Complex to turf for Diamond Softball, Adult and Diamond Softball, Girls Fast Pitch; the outfields may be configured at this facility too to accommodate Rectangle Fields, Flag Football • Provide sports field lighting for the seven fields at the Berl Huffman Athletic Sports Complex for Rectangle Fields, Soccer •Add a 16 court facility for pickleball. Currently, LPARD is leading the master planning and construction document preparation efforts for the design of a new pickleball court facility at McAlister Park. • Re -stripe tennis courts at the Burgess -Rushing Tennis Complex. Diamond Field Turf Conditions at Hodges Park Source: LUCK Design Team 3.19 Strategy 2.2.2: Provide top-qualltyplaying surfaces The condition and quality of the field playing surface is a crucial differentiator when teams plan which tournament they will play in or when sports sanctioning bodies are considering locations to be their tournament hosts. Therefore, top-quality playing surfaces are essential for tournament viability, and there are several initiatives that the City can undertake to ensure high -end field sustainability. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Develop and implement the incremental upgrade of playing surfaces to synthetic turf. This investment ensures eight to ten years of tournament inclusion and competitiveness while simplifying the field demands. There is still maintenance and upkeep but less worry about the weather, prairie dogs, striping, and grass condition. 2. Switch responsibility of daily field maintenance to the City (from sports association -based responsibilities). • Complete an Operations and Maintenance Plan for all tournament fields (whether turf fields or grass fields). • Build appropriate maintenance dollars into the LPARD Budget for the City to maintain the fields to tournament level quality. Re -stripe all tennis courts and sports courts. This should be true for all categories of parks, but the courts at the Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center should be given the highest priority. Strategy 2.2.3: Upgrade support amenities at sports complex facilities. The City competes against other private and public facilities for hosting tournaments. The number and quality of fields certainly matter, and so do the support amenities that comprise the complex. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Provide improved (paved) parking at each sports facility. Ease of accessibility and parking is sometimes taken for granted but definitely remembered if it is sub -standard. For example, dusty, rutted, or parking surfaces that are tough to walk on are not conducive to a top tier tournament facility. 2. Upgrade sports field lighting to LED lighting. Light cut-off, energy efficiency, and ease of startup are all reasons for the upgrade to LED lighting. In many cases, the existing light standards at the sports complexes can be utilized. Returns on this investment are optimized as the facility is used for tournament play. Provide shade pavilions and trees at each sports facility. Shade is a premium, especially in West Texas. 4. Provide concessions, restrooms, and spaces for food truck staging. 5. Provide Wi-Fi infrastructure at each of the sports complexes. Families need to be connected, whether it is families in attendance checkingthe latest updated tournament tables or an interested person logging - in to remotelywatch live streams of the games, adequate and dependable Wi-Fi is a must -have for all tournament venues. 6. Include art components and aesthetic enhancements at each facility. Aesthetics and landscaping assist in creating a sense of place, and that sense of place can separate the City of Lubbock's sports complexes from those in other cities. This does not have to be a break the bank proposition. Well -placed attention to upgrading the visual aesthetics at the tournament facilities can be a point of remembrance for visitors. 7. Include playgrounds within the interior of all sports complexes. 8. Upgrade support amenities specifically at the Berl Huffman soccer fields, to include centralized restroom/ concession buildings, sidewalks for accessibility, paved parking areas, and field lighting. Strategy 2.2.4: Optimize the efforts of 1 ubbock Sports" as part of Market Lubbock, Inc. to market and fund City ofLubbock sports tournament opportunities. Market Lubbock, Inc. provides the City with essential funding and outreach towards attracting sporting events to Lubbock though "Lubbock Sports", a marketing entity of Market Lubbock. It is partially funded to allocate marketing and investment dollars to City sports facilities in support of this goal. However, LPARD participation has been minimal in an official capacity with Lubbock Sports. LPARD inclusion in these efforts will potentially steer monies towards infrastructure improvements that will directly enhance the suitability of Lubbock's sports venues to attract tournaments to the City. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Advocate for including a member of the City's Parks Department to be on the Lubbock Sports Board of Directors. 2. Allocate an increment of the City's Hotel Occupancy Tax funding towards the recommended upgrades in the City of Lubbock sports facilities. 3. Measure the impact. The more economic dollars that can be tied to sports tournaments, the more continual investment the City has in the future. 4. Tell the story and market the excellent tournament facilities the City of Lubbock has to offer through social media campaigns and outreach. Strategy 2.2.5: Develop andrenovate sports facilities to be multi purpose facilities that will accommodate currentandupcomingsports trends The City has a tremendous opportunity to leverage current and future sports facilities as multi -purpose complexes that can host a variety of sports venues. As the sports world continuously evolves, the City can capitalize on these opportunities to host expanded activities by planning for multi -use activities at their sports fields. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Provide expanded sports field areas with park space planning that maximizes field dimension playing areas and lighting. 2. Program multiple sports activities at sports facilities, particularly on rectangular sports fields and areas between diamond fields. Objective 2.3: Expand the quantity and quality of recreational sports programs available to Lubbock Residents. As Table 3.4, Lubbock Athletic Programs, illustrates, a limited number of City -sponsored sports programs are currently offered by the City of Lubbock. Several strategies have been identified to fulfill the City's expressed desire to grow the number of athletic programs available to City residents. Strategy 2.3.1: Offeran increased varietyand availability ofrecreational sports programs throughout the City. The City's Parks and Recreation Department currently offers recreational sports programming for only adults. A need has been recognized to offer similar recreational Non -Traditional Sports Can Also Be Hosted at the City's Athletic Facilities Source: City of Lubbock 3.21 sports programs for the youth in the community. In order to host such activities, there is a need to add dedicated staff whose specific charge is to offer, plan and run recreational sports programming for residents. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Establish a Youth Athletics Coordinator Position on the LPARD staff to organize and administer youth athletics programs within the Parks Department. Strategy 2.3.2: Expand the City'; inventory of indoorrecreation facilities to accommodate numerous athletic programs. Another vital component to expanding recreational opportunities for Lubbock residents is the provision of indoor recreational activities. Chapter 4 "Indoor Recreation and Aquatics" of the City of Lubbock Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan further details recommendations for expanding the indoor recreation space availability for athletic programs. Reference strategy 3.31 on page 4.36. ter P.PWMn-cessions stand LUCK Design T Actions and Initiatives. 1. Provide multi -use, full -court gym space to host basketball and volleyball activities. 2. Provide an indoor swimming venue. 3. Furnish and design future recreation centers with small and large flexible indoor spaces for group sports recreation activities and training classes (aerobics, spin classes, weight training, etc.) Diamond Field Turf Conditions at Hodges Park Source: LUCK Design Team Existing Sports and Athletic Facilities Improvement Recommendations Table 3.11, Facility Improvement Recommendations Bill McAlister Park Baseball: Accessible signage needed in the parking area High • Resurface interior concrete slab Low Resurface and seal restroom floors Low K. N. Clapp Park Baseball: Replace backstop fencing Trinity Christian • School Field Rectangular Fields, Football Provide Shade over spectator viewing areas Replace area lighting with LED lights Tennis: Resurface two tennis courts Replace tennis surface lighting with LED lights • Replace fence and netting at tennis courts Mackenzie Park Baseball/ Softball: Accessible signage needed at parking area Provide an accessible route to all five fields, including buildings, fields, and spectator areas Replace backstop netting Replace chain link fencing Provide spectator areas with shade and bleachers • Replace scoreboards Provide drinking fountain and ensure operability Replace field lighting with LED lights at all fields J. B. Maxey Park Mae Simmons Park 3.23 Southwest Little League Fields: Replace field lighting with LED lights fields T-ball Fields: Provide an accessible route to the building (there is an existing lip at the building thresh hold) Provide shade for spectator areas • Replace field lighting with LED lights at the field Hub City Field: Replace concrete on an accessible route from parking to field Replace backstop and backstop netting Provide shade for spectator areas • Renovate facade of the building Replace field lighting with LED lights at both fields Baseball/ Softball: Provide an accessible route to the building (there is an existing lip at the building threshold) Provide shade for spectator areas Replace field lighting with LED lights at the field Replace backstop netting Replace chain link fencing Low Low Low Low Low Low High High High High Medium Medium Medium Low Low High Medium Low High Medium Medium Low Low High Medium Low Low Low IF Helen M. Hodges Park Baseball/ Softball: Provide an accessible route to both fields High • Accessible signage needed at parking area High Eradicate prairie dog holes in the outfield High Replace backstop netting High Replace chain link fencing High Provide spectator areas with shade and bleachers Medium Provide drinking fountain and ensure operability Medium • Replace scoreboards Medium Replace field lighting with LED lights at both fields Low Jack Lewis Park Baseball: Replace field lighting with LED lights at both fields Low Renovate restroom facilities Low Lou Stubbs Park Baseball/Softball: Provide an accessible route to both fields High Replace backstop netting High Replace chain link fencing Medium Provide shade for spectator areas Medium • Provide shade for dugout seating Medium Replace drinking fountain and ensure operability Medium • Replace scoreboards Medium Replace field lighting with LED lights at both fields Low Renovate restroom facilities Low Mose Hood Park Basebal/Softball: Provide an accessible route to both fields High • Replace backstop netting High Provide shade for spectator areas Medium Provide shade for dugout seating Medium • Provide scoreboards Medium Underground all overhead lighting Low Replace drinking fountain and ensure operability Low Replace field lighting with LED lights at both fields Low Tennis: Resurface 2 tennis courts High Replace fence and netting at tennis courts High Provide LED lighting for all four courts (there are no existing field Medium Lights) Existing Parki at Mae Simmons Park Source: LUCK sign Team J Berl Huffman Athletic Complex Upgrade the four natural surface baseball fields to turf High Replace/renovate restroom/ concessions building High Replace field lighting with LED lights at all fields High Provide accessible routes to all four fields High • Replace safety railing Medium Replace entry shade at the complex Medium • Resurface parking area Medium Replace cracked concrete along entry walk Medium Replace spectator seating shade and protective foul ball netting Low Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex MLK Complex Northwest Little League Complex Soccer. Upgrade the turf, irrigation and grading of the seven soccer fields at the High north end of the soccer facility to tournament quality High • Provide LED lighting for these same seven fields High Provide accessible parking, signage, and access to fields High • Provide central restrooms Medium Finish paving the entire roadway system and parking Medium • Provide covered spectator viewing areas Medium Tennis: Re -stripe the 16 Tennis Courts High Upgrade the Clubhouse/Administration Building High Replace Tennis Court Lighting with LED lights Low • Resurface Parking Area Low Provide Spectator Seating at Championship Courts Low Baseball: Upgrade the 4 natural surface baseball fields at the Blue Quad to turf High • Provide field lighting for the Teen/Adult field at the Blue Quad High (currently under construction with an anticipated completion date of Medium October 2022.) Replace netting at all batting cages Low Establish grass and working irrigation system in between playing fields Low • Replace field lighting with LED lights at all fields Low Baseball Eradicate prairie dog holes in the outfield High Replace field lighting with LED lights at both fields Low Baseball: Replace field lighting with LED lights at all three fields Low Future Sports and Athletic Facilities Improvement Recommendations Table 3.12, Future Facility Improvement Recommendations Diamond Baseball, Youth Construct 4-8 youth baseball fields; provide restroom/ High TBD Complex concession building, court lighting, parking, and outdoor pavilion/ gathering spaces Pickleball Court Construct 16 new pickleball courts with half of those being High TBD indoors; provide restroom concession building, court lighting, parking, and outdoor pavilion/gathering spaces. Currently, LPARD is leading the master planning and construction document preparation efforts for the design of a new pickleball court facility at McAlister Park. 3.25 Summary of Findings Objective 2.1: Enhance the quality of the sports game and practice fields for local residents and the opportunity of residents to use them. • The City of Lubbock sports and athletics facilities provide athletic opportunities to two distinct types of user groups: citizens of Lubbock who utilize the fields for organized and unorganized recreational play, and association -based leagues or individual residents who utilize the facilities of their own accord. • Currently, sports facilities within Lubbock utilized for practice or recreational play tend to be located inside Loop 289 and predominantly clustered along either side of the 1-27 corridor. • While larger sports complexes such as the Berl Huffman Athletic Complex and the Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex are used by local residents, there is a need for a better geographical distribution of practice fields throughout the City. Objective 2.2: Position City of Lubbock's sports complexes to draw more regional and state tournaments. • Lubbock should increase the number of playing fields to host larger tournaments or upgrade existing facilities to meet tournament standards. • LPARD should develop an incremental upgrade program to provide top-quality playing surfaces at all sports and athletics facilities. • LPARD should consider upgrading support amenities at sports complex facilities, such as providing improved paved parking and upgraded sports field LED lighting. • City of Lubbock should develop and renovate sports facilities to be multi -purpose facilities that will accommodate current and upcoming sports trends. Objective 2.3: Expand the quantity and quality of recreational sports programs available to Lubbock residents. • LPARD should offer an increased variety and availability of recreational sports programs throughout the City. • LPARD should expand the City's inventory of indoor recreation facilities to accommodate numerous athletic programs. LBChapter 4, Indoor Recreation and Aquatics k'NV- -WOPIV-. 0 Table of Contents Introduction...............................................................................................................................................................4.1 Purpose......................................................................................................................................................................4.1 IndoorRecreation.....................................................................................................................................................4.3 Overview..................................................................................................................................................................... 4.3 Challenges.................................................................................................................................................................4.3 Programming.............................................................................................................................................................4.3 Table 4.1, Lubbock Indoor Community and Adult Activity Centers.....................................................................4.3 Table 4.2, Community and Adult Activity Center Attendance, 2017 2020..........................................................4.4 Table 4.3, Community Center Sponsored Classes and Special Events.............................................................4.4 Location...................................................................................................................................................................... 4.5 Current Level of Service Standards(2022)..........................................................................................................4.5 Future Level of Service Standards(2035)............................................................................................................4.5 Ageand Condition....................................................................................................................................................4.5 Map 4.1 , Community Centers and Aquatics Facilities..................................................................................................4.6 CommunityCenter Profiles....................................................................................................................................4.7-4.24 Copper Rawlings Community Center....................................................................................................................4.7-8 Table 4.4, Annual Programming Attendance at Copper Rawlings Community Center..................................4.8 Figure 4.1, Copper Rawlings Community Center Attendance (2017 - 2020)......................................................4.8 Copper Rawlings Adult Activity Center.................................................................................................................4.9-4.10 Table 4.5, Annual Programming Attendance at Copper Rawlings Adult Activity Center................................4.10 Figure 4.2, Copper Rawlings Community Center Attendance (2017 - 2020).....................................................4.10 HodgesCommunity Center....................................................................................................................................4.11-4.12 Table 4.6, Annual Programming Attendance at Hodges Community Center....................................................4.12 Figure 4.3, Hodges Community Center Attendance (2017 - 2020).......................................................................4.12 Lubbock Adult Activity Center................................................................................................................................4.13-4.14 Table 4.7, Annual Programming Attendance at Lubbock Adult Activity Center................................................4.14 Figure 4.4, Lubbock Adult Activity Center Attendance (2017 - 2020)..................................................................4.14 Mae Simmons Community Center........................................................................................................................4.15-4.16 Table 4.8, Annual Programming Attendance at Mae Simmons Community Center.......................................4.16 Figure 4.5, Mae Simmons Community Center Attendance (2017 - 2020)..........................................................4.16 Mae Simmons Adult Activity Center......................................................................................................................4.17-18 Table 4.9, Annual Programming Attendance at Mae Simmons Adult Activity Center.....................................4.18 Figure 4.6, Mae Simmons Adult Activity Center Attendance (2017 - 2020).......................................................4.18 MaggieTrejo Supercenter.......................................................................................................................................4.19-4.20 Table 4.10, Annual Programming Attendance at Maggie Trejo Supercenter......................................................4.20 Figure 4.7, Maggie Trejo Supercenter Attendance (2017 - 2020)...........................................................................4.20 Maggie Trejo Supercenter (Senior Center)..........................................................................................................4.21-4.22 Table 4.11, Annual Programming Attendance at Maggie Trejo Supercenter (Senior Center)........................4.22 Figure 4.8, Maggie Trejo Supercenter (Senior Center) Attendance (2017 - 2020)...........................................4.22 MaxeyCommunity Center.......................................................................................................................................4.23-24 Table 4.12, Annual Programming Attendance at Maggie Trejo Supercenter (Senior Center).......................4.24 Figure 4.9, Maggie Trejo Supercenter (Senior Center) Attendance (2017 - 2020)...........................................4.24 Indoor Recreation Express Survey........................................................................................................................4.25-4.26 System -wide Approaches........................................................................................................................................4.29 Table 4.13, Revenue Generated from Indoor Recreation, FY 2015 - 2020...........................................................4.30 AquaticsFacilities.....................................................................................................................................................4.37 Table4.14, Aquatics Facilities Overview........................................................................................................................4.37 No Table of Contents Table 4.15, Average Number of Residents per Facility...............................................................................................4.38 Table 4.16, Estimation of Current and Future Facility Needs..................................................................................4.38 Aquatics Facilities Profiles......................................................................................................................................4.39-4.42 ClappPool..................................................................................................................................................................4.39 MaxeyPool.................................................................................................................................................................4.40 MaeSimmons Pool...................................................................................................................................................4.41 MontelongoPool.......................................................................................................................................................4.42 Aquatics Facilities Express Survey........................................................................................................................4.43-4.44 AquaticsFacilities Operations................................................................................................................................4.47 Table 4.17, Aquatics Revenue Versus Expenses FY 2015 - 2020............................................................................4.47 Table 4.18, Annual Pool Attendance................................................................................................................................4.48 System -wide Approaches........................................................................................................................................4.49 Sidebar: Texas Tech UREC Facilities.....................................................................................................................4.53 Sidebar: City of Pearland, Texas Recreation Center and Natatorium..............................................................4.54 Summaryof findings...............................................................................................................................................4.57 4.iv �i, r:. � y Y .r 4 i,C i+y.iF4 n a iidt. W 'i'-"5 Yd�d M1 , i 4.v Introduction Chapter 4, Indoor Recreation and Aquatics, of the City of Lubbock Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan, provides an overview of the existing conditions of Lubbock's community centers and aquatic facilities and includes a detailed inventory of each of the City -owned facilities and associated programming. Additionally, the chapter reviews existing and proposed facility Level of Service standards, facility needs based on Indoor Recreation and Aquatics Express Surveys; and provides strategies and recommendations for the City's indoor recreation and aquatics facilities and programming to grow at a pace that matches the needs of a growing City. Purpose The main goal of this chapter is to provide the City of Lubbock's Parks and Recreation Department (LPARD) with a thorough understanding of the existing conditions and demand for existing indoor recreation and aquatics facilities and programming as well as a provisional program for investing and growing the requisite —� infrastructure in a manner that meets the needs of the City as derived from City leadership, City staff, and resident input. Indoor recreation and aquatics are critical components of a city's I� parks and recreation system. The LPARD currently operates and maintains five community centers, four adult activity centers, and four aquatics facilities. Lubbock's first community center was built in 1951 and the most recent center was built in 1973. The centers were programmed and constructed to be neighborhood -focused. - — _ The structures remain in good operating condition based on their - . -'+ --- age, and continue to provide quality programming and activities i -T---- --- �-� - despite interior space constraints. The LPARD currently does ^'r -- -- - not operate a recreation center or natatorium (indoor aquatics T facility); and as recreation trends evolve, investments must be I made to expand indoor recreation facilities and programmatic offerings to be competitive with other cities. This chapter assesses each of the existing community centers and aquatics facilities, to determine facility needs, and presents overall recommendations for enhancing indoor recreation and aquatics in Lubbock. The Level of Service of Lubbock's indoor recreation and aquatics facilities is benchmarked utilizing National Recreation and Park Society (NRPA) standards along with standards derived from the -� �c'r+ ` Regional Comparison Communities identified in Chapter 2, Parks, Operations -Based Assessment. From these comparisons, Level of Service standards specific to the City of Lubbock were normalized c ,.A•"` ` ''"'r�`` fi?"� to ensure growth in the inventory and quality of recreational facilities and programmatic offerings as the population of the City and the demands of that population grow. Identifying where the City of Lubbock is in relationship to those standards provides the framework for strategies and recommendations to grow both the number and quality of recreational facilities in the City. •. �;�`'''� " ` �� Highlighted improvements at existing and proposed facilities � provide the prioritization and investment dollars needed for City �� s' "�'-t ►yf,`,t , ;, ;, Leadership to make better -informed decisions regarding how to expand its indoor and aquatic facilities as part of an ordered, r < • >-�w,"fi` ^ Y , systematic program of improvements. , Y I?v �r�ir ��"�'�'",k1 �r �� 4� iJ� 11� % v0P Yb�•. 9 �! ���C � ��e:z � �. �• � tj�� �� � �� � �' � )Sit �"� �i'°;t il,i n� .f f� v il?ia : vs� :lea/ 4 • ". A 9 �'' 1it V Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan PAR to, ; Community Center Halff Associates 0111110— tIL f� Indoor Recreation Overview As referenced in Table 4.1, Lubbock Indoor Community and Adult Activity Centers, there are five community centers and four adult activity centers (nine facilities total) within the Lubbock Parks and Recreation Department's (LPARD's) jurisdiction. These community centers provide social programs and indoor recreational facilities for people of various ages, and include: • Copper Rawlings Community Center (all ages) and Adult Activity Center (Ages 50+) • Hodges Community Center (all ages) • Lubbock Adult Activity Center (ages 50+) • Mae Simmons Community Center (all ages) and Adult Activity Center [ages 50+1 • Maggie Trejo Supercenter (Community Center [all ages] and Senior Activity Center [ages 50+]) • Maxey Community Center (all ages) Challenges With all the community centers and adult activity centers, the lack of interior space constrains the LPARD's ability to expand social and recreational program offerings to meet the needs of their constituency. All centers need to be expanded. Regarding location, the existing community centers and adult activity centers are generally congregated within central and north -central Lubbock. There are no community centers in south and south-central Lubbock. In Lubbock, sports and recreation is generally a three season activity. There are no recreation centers with gymnasiums or natatoriums to provide individual indoor recreation and physical fitness opportunities, nor support the establishment of a full range of year-round, indoor recreation league sports, such as competetive basketball, pickleball, volleyball, and competetive swimming and diving. While the community centers and adult activity centers do have a smattering of indoor recreation / physical fitness -related equipment, it is not scalable to expand and serve the needs of an over- growing indoor recreation / physical fitness community. Programming While the five community centers listed offer facilities and recreational programs for people of all ages; the Copper Rawlings Community Center, Mae Simmons Community Center, and Maggie Trejo Supercenter have additional facilities and recreational spaces specifically dedicated to senior citizens. In total, three community centers plus the Lubbock Adult Activity Center have dedicated facilities and programs for Lubbock's seniors. There are no senior -oriented facilities in south or southwest Lubbock. Lubbock's community centers and senior centers serve as community gathering spaces for indoor recreation, special events, education, and athletics; and help to Table 4.1, Lubbock Indoor Community And Adult Activity Centers Copper Rawlings Community Center 213 40th Street Copper Rawlings Adult Activity Center 213 40th Street Hodges Community Center 4011 University Avenue Lubbock Adult Activity Center 2001 19th Street Mae Simmons Community Center 2004 Oak Avenue Mae Simmons Adult Activity Center 2004 Oak Avenue Maggie Trejo Community Center 3200 Amherst Street Maggie Trejo Adult Activity Center 3200 Amherst Street Maxey Community Center 4020 30th Street 11,728 5,241* 1973 16,083 5,241* 1973 55,612 8,500 1957 57,307 16,186 1951 11,992 8,454 1960 17,988 3,951 1960 15,404 12,850* 1965 11,274 12,850* 1965 35,282 5,802 1959 *Indicates Community Center and Adult Activity Center combined 4.3 promote and provide important resources to Lubbock's residents regarding communications (e.g., computer), health, and legal services from other governmental and private entities. As indicated in Table 4.3, Community Center Sponsored Classes and Special Events, while there is some degree of duplication in the provision of center sponsored programs, each center offers some unique programs specific to that center. All community and adult activity centers currently function as de facto recreation centers and include fitness centers or gyms; in addition to providing conventional dining rooms, and social / community halls. Third -party Sponsored Venues Besides these community centers, the LPARD utilizes the Buddy Holly Center, Garden and Arts Center, Silent Wings Museum, and the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center for third -party sponsored art festivals, community luncheons, concerts, dog shows, and dance recitals. The LPARD partners with non -City entities, such as the Texas Tech University, Lubbock Lions Club, and Ballet Lubbock to provide educational, dance, and personal enrichment classes at the community centers. The social / community halls and other rooms in the community centers and adult activity centers are available for rent to Lubbock residents and visitors for private parties. Table 4.2, Community and Adult Activity Center Attendance, 2017 - 2020 Hodges Community Center 55,612 Maxey Community Center 35,282 Mae Simmons Community Center 11,992 Mae Simmons Adult Activity Center 17,988 Copper Rawlings Community Center 11,728 Copper Rawlings Adult Activity Center 16,083 Maggie Trejo Community Center 15,404 Maggie Trejo Adult Activity Center 11,274 Lubbock Adult Activity Center 57,307 Table 4.3, Community Center Sponsored Classes and Special Events Music Classes X X X Dance Classes X X X X Sports Classes Crafting Classes Babysitter Classes Science Classes X X X X X X X X X X X X X Cooking/Nutrition Classes X X X X Martial Arts Classes X X Language Classes Pet Classes Virtual Classes Open Recreation X X X X X X X X Afterschool Program X Kids Cafe X Pool/Billiards X Falun Dafa (Meditation Class) Computer Classes Fitness Classes X X X X X X X X X X X X X Pottery/Art Classes X CPR/First Aid Class Chess Club Special Events Arboretum/Gardeners/Park Events City/Community Mtgs. Santa Paws X X X X X Dance X Elections Mom & Son Valentine Dance Daddy & Daughter Valentine Dance Annual Easter Egg Hunt Mom & Me Princess Tea Party/ X Princess Party Community Clean Up X Furry Valentine X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Dog Day Howl-O-Ween X Breakfast with Santa Kidsfish Pancho Clos Halloween Events X X X X X X Health Fair X SPFB Fun Run Practice X MLK Day Celebration X Movies in the Park X X LMI Location When the recreation centers and pool facilities were constructed in the late 1950s through the early'70s they were evenly distributed across Lubbock. But in recent years, as Lubbock has grown and spread to the south and west; and these centers are now concentrated in the north -central areas of Lubbock. Map 4.1, Community Centers and Aquatics Facilities, illustrates the location of each LPARD community center and adult activity center in the city as well as facilities operated by third -party providers. The community centers' and senior centers' profiles on pages 4.9 through 4.26 provide details regarding the location and size of the facilities, and the recreation programs and special events offered at each facility. A detailed breakdown of the programs and events held at each community center, and particpation levels for the years 2016 to 2020 is provided in Appendix F. As depicted on Map 4.1, Community Centers and Aquatics Facilities, greater concentrations of people are located south and west of Lubbock where there has been new development. Though the centers were once centrally located, with new growth they are now concentrated north of where most people are living. Current Level of Service Standards (2022) The NRPA defines community centers as facilities with a focus on indoor social, wellness, or communal programming. Level of services (LOS) metrics from the National Recreation and Park Association's (NRPA) 2022Agency Performance Review report, indicates that cities with populations from 100,000 to 250,000 should have one recreation center (including gyms) for every 51,265 residents; one community center for every 55,136 residents; and one senior center for every 120,062 residents. Regional Comparison Communities data was also used to assess recreation level of service. These Texas cities were selected based on demographics and cost of living indices similar to Lubbock. Analyzing existing conditions within the comparison communities and through an evaluation of their recreational operations, comparisons can be drawn regarding the state of indoor recreation in Lubbock. Regional Comparison Communities data indicates that there should be one recreation center for every 60,000 residents; one community center for every 50,000 residents; and one senior center for every 96,000 residents (refer to Table 4.24, Average Number of Residents per Facility, page 4.38). Counting facilities that serve all ages, Lubbock currently has five community centers, which equates to one community center for every 52,400 residents. The City of Lubbock currently has no recreation centers. The City currently has four senior centers; which equates to one senior center for every 65,500 residents. As indicated in Table 4.25, Estimation of Current and Future Facility Needs, page 4.38, based on N RPA estimates, a city the size of Lubbock, with a current population of approximately 262,000 persons, should have at least five community centers, five recreation centers, and two senior centers. The regional Comparison Communities data is similar. Notably, the City currently has a significant deficit in its provision of recreation centers. Future Level of Service Standards (2032) According to NRPA and Regional Comparison Community estimates, based on a 2032 estimated population of 345,000, the City of Lubbock will require two additional community center by the year 2032. N RPA standards suggest that the City will require at least six recreation centers. No additional senior centers will be required before the year 2032. Age and Condition Although these LOS standards indicate in some instances that Lubbock does not need any additional facilities at the moment or within the next 10 years; this analysis does not account for the age and condition of Lubbock's existing indoor centers. Additional facilities should be constructed where greater densities of people are concentrated. 4.5 Park Key LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, ♦ AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN ♦ 01 : Andrews, Clifford Park 02 : Aztlan Park - - client city of Lubbock 03 : Aztlan Park Link ® Consultants: HallfAssociates, Inc. 04 : Berry Park 05 : Burgess -Rushing Tennis Center Drew St. data sources, City or Lubbock. Texas 06 : Burns Park 294 ` 07 : Bulter Park LEGEND 08: Carlisle Park 09 : Carter Park 10: Casey, David Park Keuka St. Population 11 : Chatman, J.A. Park 0 Less than 1,500 12 : Clapp, K.N. Park 1 13 : Cooke, Alex & Verna Park 1,501 - 2,500 14: Crow, Earl Park 15 : Davies, Judge Walter Park 12,501 - 3,500 16 : Davis, A.B. Park 17 : Davis, LT. Col. George A. Jr. Park _` 3,501 - 5,500 18 : Dupree, George W. Park 19 : Duran, Dr. Armando Park 8a} > More than 5,500 20 : Elmore, Leroy Park 21 : Furr, Ray -Pioneer Park Community and Adult 22 : Gateway Plaza Regls St. Activity Center (City -Owned) 23 : Guadalupe Park 24: Guy, Charles Park Community Aquatic 25 : Hamilton, Stumpy Park I K,en a Kent St. .- Facility (City -Owned) 26 : Higinbotham Park 27: Hinojosa Fields 28 : Hodges, Helen Park PID / HOA Aquatics Facilities 29 : Hoel, Phil Park Third party Facilities 30 : Hollins Park 31 Holly, Buddy & Maria Elena Park _ $ W FL : - 79 • 1-mile Buffer 32 : Holly, Buddy Recreation Center 28 ;,�' 33 : Hood, Mose Park - Q 8Q Q \ 34 : Huffman, Berl Athletic Center 8� +++ Erskine 6t. 35 : Huneke, Henry War Memorial Park 36 Jennings. Jan Park _ � 3 2 0 0 Lubbock City Limits : 37: Kastman Park 38 Lakewood Development Area Montelongo Pool ming �45 A 57 / 82 L _ -1 Lubbock ETJ : 46 7i 30 ' Interstate 39: Leftwich, M. Park � 23�,,2 E.ami. 40 : Lewis, Jack Park 41 : Long, Buster Park �r - 21 • Pa xwav °` 7 State Road Principal Arterial Road p 42 : Lopez, Richard Park �� 2P - 64 43 : Lubbock Youth Sports Complex 17 _ - 1 Major Collector Street 44: Lusk, Willie Park sth 1 1 th 56 1 � 65 Minor Arterial Street 45: Mackenzie Park 46 : Maedgen, E. Park - �1a - 72 5 50 6 7541 Mae Sim goes Swimmin Pool Minor Collector Street 47: Mahon, George Park Maxe 48 r 71 zsm swimming �� 8 33 11 44 54 Local Road 48 : Maxey Park Pool 74 82 Rail line 49 : McAlister, Bill Park 47� 50 : McCrummen Park aam D 70 Water Body 51 : McCullough, B. Park 52 : Meadowbrook Golf Course D 16 nznd 76 • Clapp 4 Public / Institutional 53 : Miller, Bill &Ann Park a n 3 < 58. •O Swimming 59 12 Pool Parks 54 : M LK Complex - a Both — 55 : Neugebauer, Randy Park 56 : Overton, M.C. Park ' < 41 40 -+ 57 : Pallotine Park 49 58th - 58 : Ratliff, W. Park 18 39 62 Siatpa 59 : Rawlings, Copper Park - - - - - - - - esm 5 Rd 60 : Reagan, Naomi Park 20 37 10 - - 2ss 61 : Remington Park D 61 62 : Ribble, O.W. Park 53 63 : Rodgers Park 68 1 36 64: Sedberry, Will Park 6g 65 : Simmons, Mae Park 35 66 : Sims, Gladys Park 55 14 67: Smith, Preston Park 29 51 68 : Stevens, Jack Park 24 69 : Strong, Jack & Mary Nell Park sate 70 : Stubbs Park 38 84 71 : Tech Terrace Park 72 : Tim Cole Memorial Park 73 : Underwood Park 74 : Wagner Park oath 1 mile 2 miles 3 miles 75 : Washington Park 76 : Wheelock Park I d n 1 inch - 8,333 feet 77: Whisperwood Median 78 : Woods, George Park I = 43 a - _ _ - _ _ _ - - - - - 79 : Consquistador Lake 130th 80 : Llano Estacado Lake 81 Comancheria Lake/ Canyon Rim MAP 4-1 : 0 82 : Dunbar Historical Lake COMMUNITY CENTERS asth AND AQUATICS i D - FACILITIES July 2022 I Woodrow Rd. Community Center Profiles CoppCenter er Rawlings Community East -central Lubbock, adjacent to Rawlings Park Size: 5,241 sq. ft. (includes the Copper Rawlings Adult Activity Center) Primary Users: Families with young children, youth, adults Facilities and Amenities: One crafting, sewing, and storage room; one multi -purpose social / community hall with pool tables, fitness area, and dining tables with chairs; and kitchen Programs: Summer and holiday camp for youth; afterschool program for youth; leisure education classes for adults, such as cooking and dance; fitness Events: Car / Trunk exhibition; Trunk or Treat; Halloween night / haunted house; art and craft exhibition / Holiday Craft Bazaar; Saturday in the Park, Community Garage Sales, Valentine Dinner and Dance, neighborhood clean-ups Assessment: This center houses both the Adult Activity Center and the Community Center and is the newest of the centers, though still nearly 50 years old. Due to the age of this facility, both interior and exterior spaces require maintenance and improvements to increase the level of service. According to attendance data, of which some from 2019-2020 is missing, this center is primarily used by seniors. Desired improvements: • Better / expanded kitchen for cooking classes • Interior building remodel • Storage • Reconstructed tennis courts • ADA accessible doors throughout the center • Outdoor pavilion with trees Figure 4.1, Copper Rawlings Adult Activity Center Attendance (2017-2020) 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 i 500 • 0 ,ova ��i ��i a mcl i� a� � �� �� • ,o� rya Sao eF P Qw 2017-18 2018.19 2019-20 -I--- ------ --- Table 4.4, Annual Programming Attendance at Copper Rawlings Community Center 1 1 ffilm Classes 10,339 9,098 11,065 9,224 8,243 Special Events 989 1,087 2,316 1,804 1,266 Holiday/Summer Camps 1,090 1,368 1,320 1,180 1,048 Subotal 12,418 11,553 14,701 12,208 10,557 TOTALAttendance 15,713 14,879 4,593 Observations: • FY 2019-2020 decrease in attendance, beginning in March, 2020 is attributable to Covid-19 pandemic. • Summer Camp and Kids Cafe attendance has decreased overtime, with the exception of LBKids Cooking and Tamale Workshop. • Fitness classes and Open recreation has consistently strong • Cooking Classes attendance has decreased overtime. • Pool/Billiards has increased in popularity. • Special events attendance for the Garage Sale, Holiday Bazaar, and Trunk or Treat has declined overtime. 1 i F All Community Center Profiles Copper Adult Activity Center Location: East central Lubbock, adjacent to Rawlings Park Size: 5,241 sq. ft. (includes the Copper Rawlings Community Center) Primary Users: Seniors Facilities and Amenities: One crafting, sewing, and storage room; one multi -purpose social / community hall with pool tables, fitness area, and dining tables with chairs; and kitchen Programs: Leisure programs such as art, craft, and sewing; fitness activities; games, such as bingo and pool; breakfast; Senior Meal Program Events: Car / Trunk exhibition; Halloween night; art and craft exhibition; movie night Assessment: This center houses both the Adult Activity Center and the Community Center and is the newest of the centers, though still nearly 50 years old. Due to the age of this indoor center, both interior and exterior spaces require maintenance and improvements to increase the level of service. According to Table 4.5, Annual Programming Attendance at Copper Rawlings Adult Activity Center, half of all visitors participate in activities such as billiards, coffee socials, and fitness classes. Desired improvements: • Secluded / Separated fitness area • Additional Storage • Crafting / Sewing Room • Outdoor seating area with benches, trees, and shade structure • ADA accessible doors throughout the center • Public Wi-Fi access Jiro a tt 10, jVlondat� Si4-n Fr+- law M a � Thuws Lunch - ik Bible Sud ia�4� y P109n2iIs Ifa Yro +am. Rc l�il �a��Tuesday - y Se wire �.tPe� Mq� Scw��� ir�Q i3:ceVY %y4- 9euat 31+ rif [ Wtria 14Wpm, la&W more 11.00am Q *01512' WCdnesda _ � S�` 0 Q v Doi\ I • Figure 4.2, Copper Rawlings Adult Activity Center Attendance (2017-2020) 3,000 2, 500 6 • 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 • o 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 • � p Table 4.5, Annual Programming Attendance at Copper Rawlings Adult Activity Center 1 1 1 1 1' 016 2017 20181 1 1 Classes 744 519 490 394 392 Special Events 237 276 261 237 276 Activities (Bingo, 9,966 8,385 9,008 9,393 4,432 billiards, etc.) 10,947 9,180 9,759 10,024 5,100 17,615 17,249 13,384 Observations: • FY 2019-2020 decrease in attendance, beginning in March, 2020 is attributable to Covid-19 pandemic. • Other than Wellness Checks, most activities have declined overtime. • Special Events participation has generally increased over time, though attendance remains low. AN ,ctivity Center 4ssociates 4.11 Community Center Profiles Hodges Community Center Central Lubbock, adjacent to Clapp Park Size: 8,500 sq. ft. Primary Users: Families with young children, youth Facilities and Amenities: • Dance room for dance classes and yoga; • art room / classroom for art classes and virtual schooling space for children; • large social / community hall for community events, such as Daddy -Daughter Dances and private parties; and kitchen Programs and Events: • Summer and holiday camp for youth; art and craft classes for preschoolers and youth; • learning classes for preschoolers, such as story time, reading, music, and art; • school day off programs for youth; photography classes for youth; • performing arts programs for youth, such as dance, tumbling, and theater; • performing arts for preschoolers, such as ballet and dance; • sports and fitness classes for youth, such as karate, yoga, soccer, and basketball; • leisure education classes for adults, such as material (wood, vinyl) cutting for design projects Assessment: This is the second oldest and second most popular community center in Lubbock with an estimated 55,612 annual visitors between 2017 and 2020. According to Table 4.2, Programming Attendance Compared to Total Attendance, the majority of people who visit Hodges Community Center are not participating in programmed indoor recreational activities. As the second oldest community center in Lubbock, both interior and exterior spaces require maintenance and improvements to increase the level of service. Desired improvements: • Additional multi -purpose room • Computer room • Dedicated art room with sink • Preschool playground • Basketball court • Expanded kitchen • Community garden • Outdoor seating areas with trees • ADA accessible doors throughout the center • Public Wi-Fi access Figure 4.3, Hodges Community Center Attendance (2017-2020) 9,000 8,000 7,000 6,000 5,000 . ♦ 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0 • �� w > O F� �� cam 1Ja �a ,�� ,� JS0 ,4,o 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 • • • - �I 'J"197, Table 4.6, Annual Programming Attendance at Hodges Community Center r/ Classes 7,591 7,828 9,236 9,374 5,061 Special Events 3,207 4,345 5,458 4,928 5,644 Holiday/Summer Camps 2,338 2,218 2,382 2,402 254 MINNEWSubtotal 13,136 14,391 17,076 16,704 10,959 MW' TOTALAttendance 60,595 66,147 40,094 Observations: • FY 2019-2020 decrease in attendance, beginning in March, 2020 is attributable to Covid-19 pandemic. • Music, Dance, and Sports Classes remain very popular. • Special Events such as the Arboretum/Gardeners, Santa Paws, Pumpkin Trail, and Easter Egg Hunt remain popular. • There are several Special Events that have significantly decreased in attendance. Suspending the event may be warranted. • Summer camp programs remained strong until 2020 and Covid-19. W ma i Awl r= ., Y r l SAN } i,�c Community Center Profiles LubbockAdult Activity Center Location: Central Lubbock Size:16,186 sq. ft. Primary Users: Adults and Senior Citizens Facilities and Amenities: A large social / community hall for dinning with an area for pool tables and ping pong tables; computer lab; seating area with television; library area with seating; fitness area; crafting or meeting rooms; and kitchen Programs and Events: Leisure education classes for seniors, such as art, craft; computer and wireless classes for adults, such as beginning computer functions, learning social media, AARP assistance for taxes; fitness classes for adults and seniors, such as Zumba, balloon volleyball; personal enrichment classes for seniors and adults, such as cooking and dancing; games for seniors, such as snooker, bingo and table tennis; pool tournaments; Thursday Dances Assessment: The Lubbock Adult Activity Center is the oldest, largest, and most popular community center in Lubbock. Though attendance has been declining since 2017. It is also the only center that is exclusivley for seniors and does not have an all ages compenent nearby. Of the people who visit the center, typically less than half are participating in programming. This could be due to the lack of classes offered or due to visitors using the center for lunch or socializing. Of the programming offered, billiards and the weekly dances are the most popular. Due to the age of this indoor center, both interior and exterior spaces require maintenance and improvements to increase the level of service. This is the only center that does not have room to expand. However, there is a potential opportunity for an interlocal agreement with the ISD and the building next door. Desired improvements: • Computer room (focus on tablets) • Crafting rooms • More storage • Security for vehicles (gated area) • Secluded fitness area • Repair vans (2) and schedule additional field trips • Start opening on Saturdays • ADA accessible doors throughout the center • Outdoor community garden with raised beds • Additional van accessible parking 4.13 Figure 4.4, Lubbock Adult Activity Center Attendance (2017-2020) 10,000 9,000 8,000 7,000 6,000 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0 J��y F F i F 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 Table 4.7, Annual Programming Attendance at Lubbock Adult Activity Center Classes Special Events Activities (Bingo, billiards, etc.) total IVI/ALRWdance N/A N/A N/A 1,526 N/A 5,853 5,743 5,744 5,962 4,066 21,274 20,993 21,782 22,137 13,780 27,127 26,736 27,526 29,625 17,846 71,029 67,455 33,436 Observations: • FY 2019-2020 decrease in attendance, beginning in March, 2020 is attributable to Covid-19 pandemic. • Except for Scrapbooking and Sewing/Quilting, most Activities have decreased in participation. Until 2020 and Covid, Dominoes, Coffee/Tea Social and Fitness remain the most popular Activities. • Otherthan Movies, participation in Special Events has remained fairly high. Community Center Profiles Mae Simmons Community Center Location: Eastern Lubbock, adjacent to Mae Simmons Park and Dunbar Lake Size: 8,454 sq. ft. Primary Users: Adults Facilities and Amenities: Large social / community hall for community events and private parties; gym with exercise equipment and lockers; computer lab; and kitchen Programs and Events: Computer and wireless classes for adults, such as basic computer functions, learning the internet, using Microsoft Office; personal enrichment classes for adults, such as family dog microchipping, assistance on legal matters, book club, summer and holiday camps for youth; sports classes for teens Assessment: Data regarding programming attendance does not exist prior to 2018 and indicates a lack of programming at this center. Due to the age of this indoor center, both interior and exterior spaces require maintenance and improvements to increase the level of service. Desired improvements: • Computer room for youth, adults, and seniors • Improved, more reliable Internet • Additional mulitpurpose room forteens • Additional storage • Basketball court with covered pavilion • Repair surface of tennis courts • ADA accessible doors throughout the center • Consider additional table top games (pool, ping- pong, skee ball, air hockey) • Provide sidewalk and senior accessible connections to Dunbar Lake • Additional fitness and wellness classes 4.15 Figure 4.5, Mae Simmons Community Center Table 4.8, Annual Programming Attendance at Mae Attendance (2017-2020) Simmons Community Center 3,000 I I I I• I I I I• 2,500 Classes N/A N/A N/A 6,221 4,107 Special Events N/A N/A N/A 1,527 638 2,000 Holiday/Summer Camps N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A ■ ' Subtotal N/A N/A N/A 7,748 4,745 1,500 01 TOTALAttendance 12,631 17,698 5,647 1,000 Observations: 500 • FY 2019-2020 decrease in attendance, beginning in March, 2020 is attributable to Covid-19 pandemic. 0 � y • While most Classes have decreased in attendance, there has �� �� c� cm1� aye e �aa �� �� °� � c been a significant increase in Open Recreation. o° 2° o° `` �,°� • While most Special Events have decreased in participation, 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 the Polar Express Carnival appears to have increased in popularity. Community Center Profiles Mae Simmons Adult Activity Center Location: Eastern Lubbock, adjacent to Mae Simmons Park and Dunbar Lake Size: 3,951 sq. ft. Primary Users: Seniors Facilities and Amenities: Sewing room; multi- purpose social / community hall for dinning and fitness activities, includes pool tables, a treadmill, and sitting area with a TV; and kitchen Programs and Events: Fitness classes for seniors, such as balloon volleyball; personal enrichment classes for seniors, such as crafting, sewing, or cooking; games for seniors, such as snooker and bingo; breakfast for seniors. Assessment: The Mae Simmons Adult Activity Center is the smallest of the centers in Lubbock. Data regarding programming attendance does not exist priorto 2018 and indicates a lack of programming at this center. Due to the age of this indoor center, both interior and exterior spaces require maintenance and improvements to increase the level of service. Desired improvements: • Construct an exterior patio with pergola covering, benches (4), and picnic tables • Plant additional trees and landscaping • ADA accessible doors throughout the center • Additional health and wellness classes • Field -trip opportunities to parks and neighboring towns • Outdoor community garden with raised beds 4.17 e Figure 4.6, Mae Simmons Adult Activity Center Table 4.9, Annual Programming Attendance at Mae Attendance (2017-2020) Simmons Adult Activity Center 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 i i i 6 10 10 10 Ja J`0 a 2 O 2017-18 �� -Q lip �Q 2018.19 2019-20 Air - Classes N/A N/A N/A 588 304 Special Events N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Activities (Bingo, N/A N/A N/A 628 1,036 billiards, etc.) ubtotal N/A N/A N/A 1,216 1,340 TOTAL Attendance 19,595 19,051 15,318 Observations: • FY 2019-2020 decrease in attendance, beginning in March, 2020 is attributable to Covid-19 pandemic. • While Fitness and Open Recreation Activities have increased in attendance, participation in Classes offerred has decreased. Community Center Profiles Maggie (Community Center) Location: Northwestern Lubbock, adjacent to Rogers Park Size:12,850 sq. ft. (includes the adult activity center section of Maggie Trejo Supercenter) Primary Users: Families with young children, youth, adults Facilities and Amenities: Art room / classroom for preschool children; large social / community hall for community events and private parties; gym for adults with updated fitness and exercise equipment Programs and Events: Summer and holiday camp for youth; afterschool care program for youth; computer and technology classes; financial literacy workshops; leisure education classes, such as sewing, art, craft; fitness classes for adults including dance and meditation; personal enrichment classes, such as fitness and wellness classes, and writing skills; National Night Out / Movie in the Park Assessment: Attendance has been somewhat stable at the Maggie Trejo Community Center since 2017. Of the people who come to the center, typically more than half are participating in programming with a majority of attendance coming from after school programs. Due to the age of this indoor center, both interior and exterior spaces require maintenance and improvements to increase the level of service. Desired improvements: • Expanded or new game room • Updated fitness equipment • Outdoor community garden with raised beds • Renovate existing fenced -in outdoor space with toddler play equipment, benches, and plantings • Renovate or replace existing ball courts • Additional pavilion / shade structure 4.19 A SIX Wk All Itipurpose community hall t_.>_ Source: Halff Associates • Figure 4.7, Maggie Trejo Community Center Table 4.10, Annual Programming Attendance at Maggie Trejo � ..Attendance (2017-2020) Supercenter (Community Center) 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 , �o Fo F�JS0 4-o o°°� o�� ,a ``� P Qom• 2017.18 2018.19 2019-20 • i 4 e Classes 8,276 6,244 6,497 7,271 4,152 Special Events 2,049 2,256 3,129 2,871 1,682 Holiday/Summer Camps 1,525 1,600 1,762 1,336 0 ENEWSubtotal 11,850 10,100 11,388 11,478 5,834 NEW- TOTALAttendance 14,620 21,391 10,200 Observations: • FY 2019-2020 decrease in attendance, beginning in March, 2020 is attributable to Covid-19 pandemic. • After School Care, Fitness and Sports Classes remain very popular. • While Pancho Clos and the Halloween Carnival remain the most popular Special Events, most of the other events have decreased in attendance. • Until 2020, participation in Summer Camps has remained popular. Community Center Profiles Maggie (Adult Location: Northwestern Lubbock, adjacent to Rogers Park Size:12,850 sq. ft. (includes the community center section of Maggie Trejo Supercenter) Primary Users: Seniors Facilities and Amenities: Dance room for dance classes; art room / classroom with seating space, piano, and a small library; social / community hall for yoga, pool tables, fitness classes, and private parties; and kitchen Programs and Events: Leisure education classes for seniors, such as sewing, art, nutrition; basic computer and wireless classes for seniors; fitness classes for seniors, such as meditation, balance exercising, balloon volleyball; personal enrichment classes for seniors and adults, such as family dog training, writing skills; games for seniors, such as bingo, loteria, and table tennis; breakfast for seniors Assessment: Based on average annual attendance between 2017 and 2020, the Maggie Trejo Senior Activity Center had the fewest visitors compared to all other centers (refer to Table 4.1, Lubbock Indoor Community and SeniorActivity Centers on page 4.3). Of the people who come to the center, typically more than half are participating in programming with most attending activities like bingo, billiards, coffee socials, ect. Due to the age of this indoor center, both interior and exterior spaces require maintenance and improvements to increase the level of service. Desired improvements: • Construct a new computer room • Shaded outdoor seating area • Community Garden 4.21 Figure 4.8, Maggie Trejo Senior Activity Center Attendance (2017-2020) 2,000 1,800 1,600 1,400 1,200 1,000 800 600 400 200 0 aid 1b, �F o �o Oq, 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 Table 4.11, Annual Programming Attendance at Maggie Trejo Supercenter (Senior Activity Center) Classes 928 964 842 678 475 Special Events 317 449 333 332 246 Activities (Bingo, billiards, 10,765 9,662 7,056 6,876 3,947 etc.) a— Su o 12,010 11,075 8,231 7,886 4,668 TOTAL Attendance 12,444 12,882 8,469 Observations: • FY 2019-2020 decrease in attendance, beginning in March, 2020 is attributable to Covid-19 pandemic. • While Pool, Coffee Social, and Fitness remain the most popular Activities, most activities have declined in participation. • Crafting/Peaceful Paint, Quilting/Sewing, and Texas Agri Life Nutrition remainthe most popular Classes though attendance decreased in 2019-2020. • Dances remain fairly well -attended. Community Center Profiles Maxey Community Center Location: West Central Lubbock, adjacent to Maxey Park Size: 5,802 sq. ft. Primary Users: Families with young children, youth, adults Facilities and Amenities: Dance room for dance classes; art room / classroom with seating space, piano, and a small library; social / community hall for yoga, gymnastics, fitness classes, and private parties; and kitchen Programs and Events: Summer and holiday camp for youth; art and craft classes for preschoolers and youth; learning classes for preschoolers, such as music and art; sports classes for preschoolers, such as tumbling, karate, and t-ball; school day off programs for youth; performing arts programs for youth, such as dance, tumbling, and theater; performing arts for preschoolers, such as ballet and dance; sports and fitness classes for youth, such as gymnastics, karate, soccer, and basketball; STEM education classes for youth, such as LEGO robotics; leisure education classes for adults, such as painting; fitness classes for adults, such as yoga, self-defense, and aerobics; personal enrichment classes for adults, such as family dog training, writing skills Assessment: This is the third most popular and third oldest of the centers in Lubbock. It is worth noting that both annual attendance and particiaption in programming have been declining in the past several years (prior to the COVID-19 pandemic). As the third oldest indoor center in Lubbock, both interior and exterior spaces require maintenance and improvements to increase the level of service. Desired improvements: • Remodel rooms and expand the facility footprint to include additional rooms • Additional multi -purpose room • More storage 4.23 Figure 4.9, Maxey Community Center Attendance (2017-2020) 10,000 Table 4.12, Annual Programming Attendance at Maxey Communitv Center 9,000 I I I I 8,000 Classes 13,376 14,074 10,779 9,799 5,802 7,000 Special Events 1,501 1,572 3,009 3,363 794 6,000 Holiday/Summer Camps 3,756 2,751 2,333 2,335 169 5,000 Subtotal 18,633 18,397 16,121 15,497 6,765 4,000 w TOTALAttendance 49,967 36,903 18,976 31J00 2,000 Observations: • FY 2019-2020 decrease in attendance, beginning in March, 1,000 2020 is attributable to Covid-19 pandemic. 0 �� �� �� m� c� �� Jy� •��y • Attendance in all Classes has decreased, though Fitness and Martial Arts remain popular. 2° o�G �` ��g' • Kidsfish remains a very popular Special Event, though most 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 events have decreased in participation. F aez� - Playground Indoor Recreation Express Survey The Indoor Recreation Express Survey is a targeted survey aimed at receiving feedback from users of community centers and adult activity centers in Lubbock. The survey was open from August 2021 to December 2021 and received 372 responses. Zip -Code location of Community -Wide Survey respondents Responses < 50 50-99 100-199 = 200-299 = 300-399 Survey Findings • The most visited indoor facilities are Maxey Community Center and Hodges Community Center. • The least visited facilities are Lubbock Adult Activity Center and Copper Rawlings Community and Senior Center. • Greatest interest in fitness and wellness classes, leisure and enrichment programs, and cultural programs and celebrations provided at a City community center • Least interest in computer lab courses, senior programs and activities, and social services. • A lack of desired programs and facilities at indoor recreation centers • Respondents noted a budget between $5 and $20 dollars as a weekly cost for indoor recreation • Desire for higher quality facilities, noting outdated equipment and buildings • A majority of respondents noted a lack of programming guides for the facilities as a major reason for not utilizing the community centers 4.25 Question 1: Within the past 12 months, how often have you or your family visited indoor recreation facilities in Lubbock? Once or Twice 3-6 Times More than 6 Times Haven't Visited in the Past Year Never Have Been Other (please specify) Similar to Question 11 in the Chapter 2 Community -wide Survey, within the past 12 months,17 percent of respondents recorded that they visited an indoor recreation facility more than six times. 24 percent of respondents had not visited an indoor recreation facility in the past year, and over a quarter of the respondents recorded stated that they have never visited an indoor recreation facility. Question 2: Within the past 12 months, which of the following indoor facilities have you visited or attended classes? Maxey Community Center Hodges Community Center Mae Simmons Community and Senior Centers Maggie Trejo Supercenter Lubbock Adult Activity Center Copper Rawlings Community and Senior Center I have not visited or attended classes at an indoor facility in the past 12 months Over 67 percent of respondents recorded that they have not visited or attended classes at an indoorfacility in the past 12 months. Maxey Community Center and Hodges Community Center were the most visited. Although, Lubbock Adult Activity Center recieved low attendance amongst survey respondents, Lubbock has recorded high attendance for the LAAC; This low number may be due to seniors not taking the online survey. Question 3: Of the indoor programs and activities offered at the City of Lubbock community centers, which would you like to participate in? Select all that apply. Fitness and Wellness Classes Leisure and Enrichment Programs Cultural Programs and Celebrations Children's Arts and Crafts Attending Social Events Afterschool and Holiday Camps Computer Labs and Courses Senior Programs and Activities Social Services (Tax Preparation, etc.) Other (please specify) Similar to Question 12 of the Community -wide survey, almost 60 percent of respondents would like to participate in fitness and wellness classes, with Leasure enrichment and Cultural programs revieving about 40 percent support. Respondents are least likely to participate in senior programs and social services. Question 4: Do you currently pay to participate in City of Lubbock indoor recreational services? The majoirty of respondents, Yes at 83 percent, do not currently 0 pay for indoor recreational services, while only 17 percent currently pay. Question 4b: If yes, what price point is within your weekly budget? 1% 28IFt 37*4llllll' 601a 26% $0 only $5-10 $10-20 $20-30 $30+ Of the respondents that are paying to participate in indoor recreational services, 37 percent spend $10-$20 of their weekly budget for these services. 28 percent of respondents spend $5-$10 of their weekly budget to participate in indoor recreational services, while a quarter of the respondents spend $30 or more of their weekly budget to participate in indoor recreational services provided by the City of Lubbock. Question 5: What are the barriers to participating in indoor recreational activities that you have experienced recently? Lack of desired programs Lack of desired facilities Lack of personal time / too busy Covid-19 / social distancing concerns Programs not offered at a convenient time I have not experienced any barriers to participating in indoor recreational activities Lack of money / Programs and facilities are too expensive Lack of child care Personal health problems/disability/age Lack of transportation Other (please specify) Approximately 18 percent of respondents have experienced a lack of personal time as a barrier to participating in indoor recreational activities.17 percent of respondents recorded the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing concerns as reasons for not participating in any indoor recreational activities.15 percent of the respondents said that there is a lack of desired facilities keeping them from participating, and another 14 percent have experienced a lack of desired programs to participate in. Other responses include lack of information on programming as a barrier to participation as well as limited accessibility to recreation facilities. LBK Chapter4, Indoor Recreation and Aquatics { one& , AMA • Goal 3.0: Facilities which provide a range of diverse indoor recreational programs and activities for residents of all ages. As depicted in the facing page, Lubbock's Parks and Recreation Department (LPARD) provides a vital function in serving the social and indoor recreational needs and interests of a wide variety of constituents. In an age when people find themselves physically isolated, and there is an increasing reliance on social media platforms (e.g., Facebook and Instagram) for companionship; community centers play an important role in providing spaces and activities geared toward bringing people together; so people can get to know each other and engender a shared sense of community Over the next five to 10 years the LPARD will be faced with multiple challenges, most of which will require significant capital resources to address. Expansion and renovations to City's existing community centers and adult activity centers, the construction of new community centers, and new facilities such as a recreation center, will all be required to increase much needed social and indoor recreational programming. The following strategies and recommendations are intended to chart a balanced path forward, considering how the LPARD can continue to utilize existing facilities, while making modest improvements, and optimize current and future capital resources for maximum benefit to their constituency. Compounding the issues is the dual role Lubbock's community centers and adult activity centers continue to play to providing conventional social and civic programming while also providing the requisite space and equipment to function as ad hoc recreation centers. Considering creative, cost-effective ways of separating these functions may provide an opportunity to more fully utilize existing interior space for conventional community programming; though opportunities for enhanced indoor recreation cannot be ignored. While the development of a City -owned and operated recreation center and accompanying natatorium will likely be a priority of this Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan; it will be a huge municipal undertaking, requiring coordinated programming, scheduling, and budgeting. The opportunities that would accrue from this enterprise are vast and would enable LPARD to house multiple recreational programs and initiatives that would benefit all of Lubbock's citizens. Singing Hills Recreation Center, Dallas, Texas Source: Dallas Parks and Recreation System -wide Approaches 0 Approach 1 Continue to expand the interior space of existing community centers to accommodate the expansion of needed programmatic activities. EM Approach 2 As an interim bridging strategy, to enable community centers and adult activity centers to more fully utilize existing interior space for existing and future programmatic activities, consider consolidating the physical fitness program and associated equipment to a in one community center and one adult activity center. E]Approach 3 Develop a centralized recreation center with associated indoor natatorium in order to provide a variety of facilities for additional indoor recreational programming. As discussed, the LPARD currently does not operate a recreation center and gymnasium and therefore cannot provide a variety of indoor recreational activities. Objective 3.1: Ensure that existing community centers and senior centers serve the social and civic needs of the communities they serve. Lubbock's community centers and adult activity centers have the opportunity to be more influential in the lives of its citizens, through the provision of relevant programming. This, in turn, will generate more revenue forthe LPARD. As depicted in Table 4.13, Revenue Generated from Indoor Recreation, FY2015 - 2020, while not insignificant, the LPARD's community centers need to increase revenue generation. As social hubs, not dissimilar to modern town center developments, community centers should be catalytic in stimulating adjacent neighborhood -scale commercial and other development and redevelopment; which will draw more people to the area. Strategies associated with this objective focus on improving facilities and enhancing program offerings, utilizing existing human, animal, and plant resources, to enhance life experiences for the young and old alike. 4.29 Strategy 3.1.1: Prepare renovation /expansion plans for community centers and adult activity centers. All of the centers require additional indoor space in order to expand their program offerings to meet the needs of their constituents. Most centers require additional storage and closet space to accommodate the existing programs offered. Initiatives and Actions: Conduct feasibility analyses for expanding each community center and adult activity center; in order to determine whether the existing facility is structurally sound and accommodate expansion; which walls are load bearing to determine the best direction to expand; and other structural requirements. 2. Develop a provisional program for facility expansion to determine specific equipment / space required to accommodate new offerings. 3. Develop a space plan for each facility depicting how interior spaces will function and where storage space will be located. 4. Prepare expansion/renovation budgets and schedules based on funding availability. 5. When considering expansion options for the Lubbock Adult Activity Center, contact the Lubbock ISD to determine whether there may be opportunities to expand into the adjacent Dupree Elementary School parking lot and/or open space area, as the school is being repurposed to serve as a resource center for the ISD. 6. Evaluate the feasibility and value of renovating the Dunbar Manhattan Heights Neighborhood Association Meeting House to function as a meeting facility that local groups could rent. Meet with northeast Lubbock neighborhood associations to determine whether there is a need for a community meeting facility. Strategy 3.1.2: Prioritize the following building renovations to the City's community centers and adult activity centers. Beyond the major renovations needed for each community center and adult activity center, there are several small-scale improvements that can be scheduled for each center over the next six to nine months, that would significantly improve operations and the potential for expanded programming in the future, including the following: Initiatives and Actions: 1. Copper Rawlings Community Center — Expand the kitchen facility to include more counterspace — Install a step at entrance where food is delivered 2. Hodges Community Center — Install ADA-compliant doors throughout the facility — Provide additional tables in Chapel — Install MS Windows -based operating systems on all computers 3. Lubbock Adult Activity Center — Repair vans (2) and schedule additional field trips — Determine under what conditions the facility to open on Saturdays 4. Mae Simmons Community Center — Improved, more reliable Internet connection 5. Maggie Trejo Supercenter — Install ADA-compliant doors throughout the facility Table 4.13, Revenue Generated from Indoor Recreation, FY 2015 - 2020 Indoor Recreation Building Rent $45,319.65 $44,665.00 $45,353.50 $47,523.00 $14,701.00 Instruction / Classes $288,987.16 $230,528.70 $228,526.87 $231,169.69 $66,633.81 Senior Computer Education Program $240.00 $570.00 $570.00 $460.00 - Total Revenue $334,546.81 $275,763.70 $274,450.37 $279,152.69 $81,334.81 MIX Strategy 3.1.3: Schedule and budget the following building renovations to the City's community centers and adult activity centers. As outlined within the center profiles (pages 4.7 to 4.24), the following major renovations will be required to facilitate programmatic expansion within the community centers and adult activity centers. Initiatives and Actions: • 4 1. Copper Rawlings Community Center — Remodel and renovate all of the interior rooms within the facility — Develop more storage space 2. Hodges Community Center — Expand building to include a larger kitchen — Construct a new computer room — Construct a pottery room for the two existing kilns — Public access Wi-Fi 3. Lubbock Adult Activity Center — Construct a new computer room — Construct a new crafting room — Construct more storage space 4. Mae Simmons Community Center — Construct an additional multi -purpose room for teens — Construct a computer Lab for youth, adults, and seniors — Construct an outdor pavilion with benches and landscape enhancements 5. Maggie Trejo Supercenter (Senior Center) — Build a computer lab for senior citizens — Public access Wi-Fi 6. Maxey Community Center — Remodel rooms and expand the facility footprint to include additional rooms — Expand building to include additional storage space Lubbock Memorial Arboretum pavilion with shade vines 1 Source: Visit -Lubbock • • Strategy 3.1.4: Provide landscape enhancements, facilities, and furnishings improvements to expand exterior recreational programming at community centers and adult activity centers. Several community and adult activity centers lack the exterior amenities required to support community passive and active recreational needs. Additionally, based on resident input, Lubbock's community and adult activity centers, look old and are not visually appealing. To increase the visitation and use of the centers by Lubbock's residents, develop a phased plan to implement the following landscape and facilities improvements at each center: Initiatives and Actions: 1. Copper Rawlings Community Center — Plant additional trees around both centers to provide additional shade. — Provide benches (4) outside the Adult Activity Center so senior citizens don't have to sit in folding chairs. — Repair surface of tennis courts so they do not hold water and drain. Restripe the courts so they can function as pickleball courts. — Consider providing exterior exercise equipment, as at Maxey Community Center. 2. Hodges Community Center — Install a full-sized basketball court. — Install a preschool playground — Provide more outdoor seating areas — Identify a good location for covered and screened dumpsters. 3. Mae Simmons Community Center — Install a full-sized basketball court with covered pavilion — Repair surface of tennis courts. Restripe the courts so they can function as pickleball courts. — Construct an exterior patio with pergola, benches (4) and picnic tables (4) outside of the Adult Activity Center. — Provide picnic tables (4) outside of the Community Center. — Plant additional trees around both centers to provide additional shade. — Consider providing exterior exercise equipment, as at Maxey Community Center. 4. Maxey Community Center — Demolish concrete volleyball and half basketball courts. 5. Maxey Community Center — Add a new pavilion / shade structure — Add a community garden with raised beds — Renovate existing fenced -in area 0 s Strategy 3.1.5: Construct at least two additional community centers with combined adult activity centers to accommodate growth and demand for the centers in south and west -central Lubbock. As described in the Future Level of Service Standards section of this chapter, by 2032, the City of Lubbock will require at least two additional community centers. Because the existing five community centers are predominantly located in central Lubbock, these centers will need to be located in the City's principal growth areas, which is to the south and southwest. Initiatives and Actions: When considering the location for the proposed community and adult activity centers, refer to Map 4.1, Community Centers and Aquatic Facilities, to determine the areas of greatest population density and growth. Partner with the development community to locate and develop community centers that can serve multiple neighborhoods. Program the facilities with large community gathering rooms that can be rented by civic organizations. Strategy 3.1.6: Ensure that community centers and adult activity centers prioritize disability inclusion. Inclusion can be defined as removing barriers, both physical and theoretical, so that all people, including those with physical and cognitive disabilities, have an equal opportunity to enjoy the benefits of parks, recreation facilities, and community centers. According to the NRPA, creating a welcoming and accessible environment for those with physical and cognitive disabilities is a great first step to promoting inclusion. Prioritize inclusive social and recreational programming for Lubbock's physically challenged citizens. Initiatives and Actions 1. To increase the use of the City's community centers, consider adding an inclusive children's playgrounds and outdoor fitness equipment at each center, including the Lubbock Adult Activity Center. 2. Consider providing additional physical activity programs, exercise classes, and/or fitness training (e.g., walking programs, yoga classes, personal training, sports leagues). 3. Consider providing opportunities to volunteer in community centers. 4. Ensure the messaging and promotional materials on display in community center facilities assures all community members that they are welcome. Aim to use people first language; for example, "a person with a disability" versus "a disabled person." Strategy 3.1.7: Combine children's recreational programming with programming for senior citizens. Make every attempt to bring children together with adults. Research continually points to the fact that aging adults are one of the best groups to spend time with young children, not only because they can pass on decades of wisdom, but also because they are at a point in life where they have the availability and patience to do so and can provide the kind of stimulation that young children need to thrive. According to researchers, "older adults are exceptionally suited to meet these needs in part because they welcome meaningful, productive activity, and engagement. They seek - and need - purpose in their lives"' According to Generations United, an organization that promotes intergenerational programs, there are 105 intergenerational "shared space" centers in the country. Initiatives and Actions 1. Work with Lubbock's ISDs to develop intergenerational learning programs involving interested members of the City's adult activity centers. 2. Have adult activity center seniors host a special event involving children at an adult activity center. 3. Arrange for an ISD student club to perform or sing at an adult activity center. 4. Invite members of adult activity centers who are veterans to speak at a school or community Remembrance Day ceremony. 5. Invite seniors and youth to play board games at adult activity centers on a regular basis. Mount's Intergenerational Learning Center houses a preshool and nursing home Source: The Atlantic, Evan Briggs 4.32 Dance for Parkinsons activity as part of the Creative Aging Program at the Mesa Arts Center, Mesa, Arizona Source: Mesa Arts Center N Seniors work with clay at the Brooklyn Public Library as part oft he Creative Aging Program organized by Creative York Source: Creative York Strategy 3.1.8: Expand educational programs for senior citizens focused on computer -based teleconferencing and electronic communications. The COVID-19 pandemic both underscored the importance of video -teleconferencing and accelerated the need to learn how to use teleconferencing software such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams. This has been difficult for many sectors of the population, particularly senior citizens. Initiatives and Actions 1. Plan and host routine sessions on how to use platforms such as Zoom, Cisco Webex, MS Teams, and other popular teleconferencing software programs. 2. Ensure that teleconferencing platforms are readily available on community center and adult activity center computers. 3. Train participants on how to setup a video teleconference with extended members of their family and/or relatives. Strategy 3.1.9: Expand community center and adult activity center programs related to the arts. Many senior citizens, including those who reside in retirement living communities, can feel excluded from the activities of a community due to limited transportation and technological ability. The exclusion of such a large portion of the population should be combatted in Lubbock through the provision of adult activity center -related initiatives that help bridge the gap between Lubbock's art and culture scene and its retired population. Initiatives and Actions Partner with the Lubbock Arts Alliance to host programs at community centers and adult activity centers. 2. Partner with the City of Lubbock Garden & Arts Center to host classes and workshops at community centers and adult activity centers. Strategy 3.1.10: Expand adult activity centers' senior field trips. Traveling to places outside of Lubbock, with friends and family, to visit unique places and meet interesting people, is a pastime enjoyed by many people. Many seniors who attend adult activity center functions however, may not have the resources to afford to travel; they may not have the faculties or the means by which to travel; and/or they may not have the requisite companions with whom to travel. It is important that the City's adult activity centers provide senior citizens with an outlet, where they can take field trips and experience new places and gain a better understanding of the landscapes and communities around them. Initiatives and Actions 1. Make sure there are enough vans to accommodate an increased demand to participate in senior tours. Repair the two vans that are currently inoperable. 2. In conjunction with Strategy 3.1.9, host escorted trips to various events happening around Lubbock throughout the year, including farmers markets (e.g., Lubbock Farmers Market and Wolff orth Farmers Market), festivals (e.g., Caprock Jazz Festival, Lubbock Arts Festival), and local art galleries, and art schools (e.g., Texas Tech School of Art). 4.33 Strategy 3.1.11: Develop programs to pair animals with seniors. The physical health and psychological benefits associated with animals has been thoroughly documented and should not be undervalued. For the elderly, who often live alone or in group facilities, pets can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, increase social interaction and physical activity and help them learn. Initiatives and Actions: Partner with the Haven Animal Care Shelter, and South Plains SPCA (Adoption Day) to bring abandoned and retired pets to Lubbock's community centers and adult activity centers. Work together to develop a fundraising campaign to promote the pairing of animals with senior citizens and 2. Partner with the City of Lubbock's Lubbock Animal Services, to host rotating Volunteer Orientation classes at community centers and adult activity centers. 3. Consider developing small dog parks at adult activity centers where seniors can play outside with dogs from the above -mentioned animal shelters. Promote a, "Get Healthy, Walk a Dog" program. Rancho Cordova Active Seniors Program gardening Source: Cordova Recreation and Park Department Residents at Hernando Nursing Homes get a visit from therapy dogs Source: Tampa Bay Times -M, `410 --JON, -I" If i N L The Paducah McCracken Senior Community Center's elevated planters Source: The Paducah Sun Strategy 3.1.12: Establish community gardens at community centers and adult activity centers. Evidence has illustrated that for community gardens to be successful there must be at least five people who are genuinely interested in gardening and can commit to tending and watering the community garden throughout the year. Community gardens could be a very successful enterprise at Lubbock's community centers. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Conduct an express survey of participants who regularly visit Lubbock's community centers adult activity centers to determine whether there is interest in establishing a community garden program. 2. Establish locations at adult activity centers where community gardens could be constructed. MIS Objective 3.2: Focus the functions of the community centers and adult activity centers on social / civic, and indoor recreational programming activities This objective is intended to provide interim bridging strategies to,1) enable the existing community centers to grow social and indoor recreation programs within their existing footprint while they are waiting for facility expansion improvements; and 2) provide Lubbock residents access to indoor recreation center facilities and exercise equipment, with minimal municipal capital outlay, while a City -owned and administered recreation center is being constructed. Strategy 3.2.1: Consolidate physical fitness equipment in one community center and one adult activity center. The LPARD's community centers and adult activity centers are suffering from a significant deficit in available useable interior space with which to facilitate / conduct existing social and recreational programming activities as well as provide additional programs to fulfill resident needs. While the physical fitness program, and associated equipment provided by the centers fills a significant need of the community, especially since the City does not have a recreation center, the centers were not designed to be gymnasiums, and do not have the requisite support facilities, such as Men's and Women's locker rooms and showers; and while some of the centers do have an assortment of treadmills, stationary bicycles, and functional trainer -type, "home gym" equipment, none of the centers provide the full range of modern nautilus - style equipment required to satisfy those interested in an arobic, full -body workout. The rooms that have been designated for physical fitness were not designed for this function, do not provide adequate space between equipment, and often share the same space with pool tables and furniture for social gatherings and dining; and some rooms are extremely constrained, such as the fitness room at the Copper Rawlings Community Center. While this objective will benefit the majority of community and adult activity centers, there are a few centers, such as Copper Rawlings and Mae Simmons, where the fitness rooms are so small that making the space available will not provide as significant a benefit, other than providing needed storage space. Fitness equipment should not be abandoned entirely from LPARD's community centers. One community center and one adult activity center should be identified as the hub for indoor physical exercise equipment. As previously noted, Copper Rawlings and Mae Simmons 4.35 existing facilities do not have capacity or space for additional equipment. The Lubbock Adult Activity Center, while it is the largest community center, does not have room for additional expansions or the equipment capacity. The second largest community center, Maggie Trejo Supercenter, and the third largest community center, or Hodges Community Center, may be the best location for consolidating exercise equipment. Trejo has additional room for expansion and development, is located at Rodgers Park, is next to existing Montelongo Pool facilities, and is nearby to existing Texas Tech University sports / exercise facilities. Maggie Trejo Supercenter is also well connected to TX - Loop 289 for shuttle services. Hodges Community Center is more is more centrally located in Lubbock at Clapp Park. Opportunities for building expansion exist at and around Hodges Community Center. Consolidating equipment at Hodges may also expand visitors indoor and outdoor exercise recreation opportunities with proximity to Lubbock Memorial Arboretum, Clapp Swimming Pool, Clapp Park trails, and existing tennis / court sports facilities. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Develop criteria through which to evaluate the centers where physical fitness equipment should be consolidated. 2. Move all physical fitness equipment into one community center and one adult activity center. 3. Remodel former fitness rooms to function in whatever capacity best serves the programmatic intentions of that center. 4. Evaluate the LPARD's existing physical fitness equipment and replace equipment as necessary. 5. Consider establishing a shuttle service that would run between centers to provide residents with access to the center with the consolidated fitness equipment. Women's World Wheelchair Rugby Invitational hosted by Texas Medical Center Source: Texas Medical Center University of Houston - Clear Lake Community Fitness and Recreation Center Source: University of Houston - Clear Lake Objective 3.3: Provide facilities to meet the indoor recreational and physical fitness interests of the community. As discussed, based on the NRPA's 2022 Agency Performance Review report and metrics, for cities with populations of 100,000 to 250,000, there is typically one City -owned and Parks and Recreation Department - administered and operated recreation center (including gyms) for every 51,265 persons. For a city the size of Lubbock, that would equate to five recreation centers. The City of Lubbock needs to seriously consider building a recreation center and natatorium to support and advance indoor recreation and aquatics programming, for the benefit of the City's residents as well as to support regional sports tourism and recreation objectives more fully, and revenue -generating opportunities therein. Strategy 3.3.1: Conduct a comprehensive feasibility analysis for developing a Recreation Center and associated Natatorium. The development program and space plan for the Recreation Center and Natatorium would include the following facilities: • Men's and Women's locker rooms • Staff offices • Restrooms • Multi -purpose rooms for dance, spinning, aerobics, and other programs • Six full-size high school hardwood basketball courts, at 84 ft. x 50 ft. each, which can also be used for pickleball courts • Volleyball courts at 60 ft. x 30 ft. • Climbing wall • Racquetball courts • Cardio and weights room • 50-meter competition pool • Activity pools • Steam room and sauna Initiatives and Actions 1. Hire a consultant to develop a facility program and space plan, development / construction schedule, and budget for the recreation center / natatorium. 2. Estimate the acreage required to support a recreation center / natatorium development program. 3. Identify potential parks that could accommodate the area requirements for the center, including parking and any associated outdoor recreational programming required. Strategy 3.3.2: Evaluate how the proposed recreation center/ natatorium could fulfill regional sports tourism objectives. Developing a recreation center / natatorium will enable the City to develop a range of additional indoor athletics and recreational programs for indivduals, teams, and leagues. The facility will enable the City's new leagues to compete regionally with other communities in West texas and elsewhere. Initiatives and Actions Work with Lubbock Sports to determine opportunities for hosting regional indoor basketball, pickleball, volleyball, swimming, diving, and other tournaments at the proposed recreation center / natatorium, and the revenue generating opportunities therein. f I *\\ \\ 46 V �i �1 Aquatics Facilities The City of Lubbock operates and maintains four aquatic facilities adjacent to existing parks, as illustrated in Map 4.1, Community Centers and Aquatics Facilities in Lubbock on the next page. These are: • Clapp Swimming Pool • Maxey Swimming Pool • Mae Simmons Swimming Pool • Montelongo Swimming Pool These four pools represent the only city -owned, operated, and maintained aquatic infrastructure within the City of Lubbock as there are no splash pads in the parks system. Built between 1953 and 1958, all four of the aquatic facilities are in a significant state of disrepair and will require rehabilitation and upgrades to remain operational. Despite their age and disrepair, the pools remain popular within the local communities. Between 2016 to 2019, the four swimming pools averaged around 48,000 visitors every year, with Clapp Pool being the most visited pool annually (refer to Table 4.23, Aquatic Facility Overview). Clapp is likely the most popular pool due to its central location and larger size compared to the other three pools. Table 4.14, Aquatic Facility Overview Pools in Lubbock are closed for most of the year and are only open for 10 and one-half weeks between May and August. Each aquatic facility includes outdoor pools with seating, lighting, and bathrooms. Some facilities have additional amenities, such as pool -side shade structures, slides, diving boards, and shallow pools for children. Bathrooms at each pool are open air and therefore exposed to the elements throughout the year, this increases maintenance costs as well as the potential for winter damage. Each pool operates with mini warden chemical controller and sand and gravel filter types. These systems are outdated, and some components are over 60 years old. The pools range in size between 225,000 to 351,000 gallons, with Clapp being the largest. Clapp Pool 351,000 1953 Central 19,947 Maxey Pool 230,000 1958 West 9,408 Mae Simmons Pool 225,000 1953 East 5,648 Montelongo Pool 230,000 1957 North 13,373 I Level of Service Standards The NRPA's 2022Agency Performance Review indicates that cities with populations up to 250,000 should have one swimming pool for every 69,051 residents. Analysis of Regional Comparison Communities data indicates that there should be one aquatics center for every 57,000 residents. The NRPA does not currently provide metrics for splash pads, but an analysis of Regional Comparison Communities indicates that on average, the Texas cities are providing one splash pad for every 74,000 residents. (refer to Table 4.24, Average Number of Residents per Facility, below. The City of Lubbock currently has one swimming pool for every 65,500 residents. Based on the NRPA metric, for a 2032 projected population of 345,000, the City will require up to two swimming pools by the year 2032. Lubbock currently does not have any splash pads. In addition to replacing the City's swimming pools with splash pads, based on a 2032 estimated population of 345,000 for Lubbock, the City will require at least five new splash pads by the year 2032 (refer to Table 4.25, Estimation of Current and Future Facility Needs). Table 4.15, Average Number of Residents per Facility Geographic Distribution There is no standard square footage level of service (LOS) for aquatic facilities. However, according to the NRPA's 2022 Agency Performance Review, communities with populations between 100,000-250,000, and as depicted in Table 4.24, Average Number of Residents per Facility, there is typically have one swimming pool per 69,051 persons. Using this metric, the City of Lubbock fulfills the requirement for swimming pools. However, when considering the Regional Comparison Communities, there is one swimming pool for every 57,000 residents, which would infer that the City of Lubbock has a deficit of one swimming pool. As indicated on Map 4.1, Community Centers and Aquatics Facilities, page 4.6, the City's aquatics facilities are primarily located in central Lubbock, north of 50th Street, and east of Quaker Avenue, and south of Erskine Street. There are some private Homeowners Association (HOA) administered aquatics facilities in Lubbock, primarily south of TX-289. Lubbock 1 per 262,000 1 per 52,000 1 per 65,000 1 per 65,000 0 NRPA Metric 1 per 51,265 1 per 55,136 1 per 1 per 85,500 N/A 120,062 Regional 1 per 60,000 1 per 50,000 1 per 96,000 1 per 57,000 1 per Comparison 74,000 Communities Table 4.16, Estimation of Current and Future Facility Needs NRPA Metrics (5) 0 0 H) N/A Regional Comparison (4) 0 0 1 4 Communities Metrics ERM Aquatics Facilities Profiles Nearly 70 years old, Clapp is both one of the oldest pools in Lubbock and one of the most visited. Of the four pools, Clapp is also the most centrally located since Lubbock is generally growing towards the south. Ammenities found at Clapp Pool include a children's pool, a pool with a depth ranging from 3 to 10 feet, shade structures, a slide, bleachers, diving boards, indoor party room, men and women's bathrooms with changing rooms and showers, lighting, fencing, and lifeguards. Location: Central Lubbock Address: 46th Street, and Avenue U, Lubbock, TX, 79412 (Located in C.L. Clapp Park) Size: 164 ft (L) x 75 ft M Depth: 1.5 ft -10.0 ft Square Ft: 12,300 Occupancy: 765 participants Gallons: 351,000 Shape: 'T' Year Built: 1953 Filter Type: Sand and Gravel Turnover: 6 hours Assessment: • Diving Board Structure needs to be replaced. • Concrete has sunken in several places causing algal growth • General structure of buildings are in need of overall repair • Doors need to be replaced • Locks need to be replaced • Pool structures have chipped and bubbling paint and need to be scraped and repainted • Unreliable drainage system • Cleaning motors are not sufficient to keep facilities completely clean e The newest of the pools, though still over 60 years old, Maxey pool is located in West Lubbock and is attached to Maxey Community Center. Ammenities found at Maxey Pool include a pool with a depth ranging from 3 to 10 feet, some shade structures, bleachers, diving boards, men and women's bathrooms with changing rooms and showers, lighting, fencing, and lifeguards. Restroom facilities Source: Halff Associates Location: Central Lubbock Address: 4007 30th Street, Lubbock, TX, 79410 (Located in Maxey Park) Size: 105 ft (L) X 65 ft (W) Depth: 2.5 ft -10.0 ft Square Ft: 6,825 Occupancy: 407 participants Gallons: 230,000 Shape: Fan Year Built: 1958 Filter Type: Sand and Gravel Turnover: 6 hours Assessment: • Diving Board Structure needs to be replaced. • General structure of buildings are in need of overall repair • Doors need to be replaced • Locks need to be replaced • Pool structures have chipped and bubbling paint and need to be scraped and repainted • Unreliable drainage system • Cleaning motors are not sufficient to keep facilities completely clean • Surveillance System is unreliable or non-existent Bull l7 The smallest pool and one of the oldest, Mae Simmons Pool is located in East Lubbock across the lake from Mae Simmons Adult Activity and Community Centers. According to attenance records from 2016 to 2019 this is the cities leat popular pool with an average annual attendance of 5,648. Amenities found at Mae Simmons Pool include a pool with a depth ranging from 3 to 11 feet, a few shade structures, a slide, bleachers, a diving board that is broken, men and women's bathrooms with changing rooms and showers, lighting, fencing, and lifeguards. Location: Central Lubbock Address: E. 24th Street off of MILK Blvd, Lubbock, TX, 79404 (Located in Mae Simmons Park) Size: 120 ft (L) x 50 ft (W) Depth: 3.0 ft -10.0 ft Square Ft: 6,000 Occupancy: 353 participants Gallons: 225,000 Shape: Rectangle Year Built: 1953 Filter Type: Sand and Gravel Turnover: 6 hours Assessment: • Diving board structure needs to be replaced. • After bubbling underneath the pavement causing structural damage • Concrete has sunken in several places causing algal growth • General structure of buildings are in need of overall repair • Doors need to be replaced • Locks need to be replaced • Pool structures have chipped and bubbling paint and need to be scraped and repainted • Unreliable drainage system • Cleaning motors are not sufficient to keep facilities completely clean • Surveillance System is unreliable or non-existent Montelongo is located adjacent to the Maggie Trejo Supercenter. Based on average annual visitors between 2016 to 2019, Montelongo is Lubbock's second most popular pool. Ammenities found at Montelongo Pool include a zero entry children's pool, a pool with a depth ranging from 3 to 10 feet, shade structures, a slide, bleachers, diving boards, men and women's bathrooms with changing rooms and showers, lighting, fencing, and lifeguards. Location: Central Lubbock Address: 3200 Bates, Lubbock, TX, 79415 - (Located in Rogers Park) Size: 105 ft (L) x 65 ft (W) Depth: 2.5 ft -10.0 ft Square Ft: 6,825 Occupancy: 407 participants Gallons: 230,000 Shape: Rectangle Year Built: 1957 Filter Type: Sand and Gravel Turnover: 6 hours Assessment: • Diving Board Structure needs to be replaced • Several cracks in the pool lining and/or structure causing pool to have unpredictable drainage that need to be identified and repaired • General structure of buildings are in need of overall repair • Doors need to be replaced • Locks need to be replaced • Pool structures have chipped and bubbling paint and need to be scraped and repainted • Unreliable drainage system • Cleaning motors are not sufficient to keep facilities completely clean • Surveillance System is unreliable or non-existent • Fencing is routinely broken, pickets are kicked -out and continually need to be replaced 4.42 Aquatics Facilities Express Survey The Aquatics Facilities Express Survey is one of the short targeted survey aimed at recieving feedback from users of Lubbock's community pool facilities and programming. The survey was open from August 2021 to December 2021 and recieved 566 responces. Zip -Code location of Community -Wide Survey respondents Responses < 50 50-99 100-199 _ 200-299 = 300-399 0 Survey Findings • Daytime public swimming and swimming classes as the most popular activities when visiting a swimming pool. • Despite the fact that 66 percent of survey respondents have not visited a municipal swimming pool, there is the perception (within almost half of respondents) that the swimming pools are too crowded and do not offer the desired amenities. • A majority of respondents would like to see new splash pads located in existing parks rather than in existing aquatics facilities • A majoirty of respondents view communtiy pools as a family space meant for water -based play / excercise and swim lessons • Respondents feel that the pools are in poor quality and lack additional play and water amenities Question 1: Which activities does your family participate in when they visit a swimming pool? C)% Daytime Public Swimming Swimming Lessons Sunbathing Exercising Pool rental for private event Swim and a Movie Lap Swim K9 Splash Fest Training Swim Team Other (please specify) The top three responses were daytime public swimming (74 percent), swimming lessons (43 percent), and sunbathing (36 percent). Other responses include the use of splash pads located at aquatics facilities. This information indicates that most respondents utilize swimming pools for leisure activities. Question 2: Do you or any members of your household currently utilize the City of Lubbock swimming pools? �1111111lb- One-third of respondents are currently utilizing the City of Lubbock swimming pools. Of city pool users, nearly 36 percent visit City of Lubbock pools once or several times per month and 26 percent visit the pools several times within the season. Four percent of respondents recorded they visit City of Lubbock pools daily. Question 3a: If yes, as a whole, how often during the swimming season would you say you or members of your household visit the City of Lubbock swimming pools? 10% 20% 30% 40% Daily Once or several times per week Once or several times per month Once a season Several times a season 4.43 Question 3b: If not, what answers best describes why you or members of your family have NOT USED the City of Lubbock swimming pools? 20 % 50% Swimming pool area is too crowded Aquatic facilities do not offer amenities / play Inconvenient location Poor quality of the swimming pool Aquatic facilities are not open year round Swimming pool is not heated Didn't know City of Lubbock swimming pools existed Aquatic / swimming programs are not offered Aquatic facilities are not safe Entrance fee is too expensive Do not have swimming gear or do not know how to swim Other (please specify) Of those who do not currently utilize the City of Lubbock pools, 45 percent believe the pool areas are too crowded, 40 percent reported the pools are not conveniently located. 45 percent reported the pools do not offer amenities or play features that interest them. Poor quality of swimming pools has kept 33 percent of respondents from using the City of Lubbock pools. Question 4: What do you feel are the main benefits public pools and aquatic facilities should provide to residents? Select all that apply. A Place for Families to Participate in Water -based Play Teach People to Swim Aquatic Exercise A Place for Adults to Socialize with Other Residents Other (please specify) Similar to Question 8 in the Community -wide Survey, a majority of respondents, at 88 percent, feel public pools and aquatic facilities should mainly be a place for families to participate in water -based play. A slight majoirty of respondents also felt that benefits such as aquatic exercise and learning how to swim are main benefits. Other responses noted that public pools and aquatic facilities provide a place for people to participate in water -based sports, complete water -safety training, and a place for children to join swim teams and leagues. k- Question 5: How important do you feel it is for the City of Lubbock to provide splash pads for residents? Important I Don't Know / No Opinion Not Important Somewhat Important Similar to Question 9 in the Community -wide Survey, Approximately 60 percent of respondents feel splash pads are very important for the City of Lubbock to provide for its residents. 22 percent of respondents feel splash pads are somewhat important, and 10 percent do not feel as though it is important for the City of Lubbock to provide splash pads for residents. This indicates a high interest in the addition of splash pads to be provided by the City of Lubbock. Question 6: Where do you want new splash pads to be located in Lubbock? Similar to Question 10 77°� 8% 15% in the Community -wide IfSurvey, a large majority of respondents want to see new splash pads located In In Other in existing parks. Only 8 existing existing (please percent of respondents parks aquatic specify) want to see new splash pads facilities in existing aquatic facilities. Respondents in the `Other' category detailed regional locations in Lubbock such as the western and southwestern Lubbock, as well as including splash pads in new parks. HIM No Text Goal 4.0: A variety of aquatic facilities address the demand for water -based recreational programs and activities. There are many opportunities associated with establishing an aquatics program in Lubbock. From a leisure aquatics standpoint, providing access to water in a hot and arid region such as West Texas, can be extremely refreshing and a needed bit of respite in the summer. Providing equitable access to splash pads in several of Lubbock's parks may significantly increase park popularity and use. Providing indoor aquatics facilities provides opportunities for establishing league - based competition swimming and diving, which can also include water polo, synchronized swimming.. From a health perspective, water -based aerobics benefit most people and because water -based physical activity reduces the load on one's skeletal system, which may be especially beneficial forthe elderly, people with skeletal and muscle injuries, and people who find it difficult to perform land -based exercise for extended periods of time. The following health benefits are associated with water -based physical activities: • Improved cardiovascular fitness when performed at a moderate to vigorous pace continuously • Improved muscular strength and endurance due to water resistance • Improved flexibility Sherwood Park Aquatic Center, Odessa, Texas Source: Halff Associates • Improved quality of life • Reduced risk of chronic disease and death • Improved joint mobility and reduction in pain for people with osteoarthritis • Mediates symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis • Improves mental health in men and women • Decreases anxiety and depression in people with fibromyalgia • Improves the health of mothers and their unborn children • Improves and maintains bone health of post- menopausal women • Improves quality of life, decreases disability, improves balance, decreases risk of falling, particularly for older adults • May reduce fatigue and improve mobility in people with multiple sclerosis • May provide a safe form of exercise for people suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)' 1. 2018. Swimming and Water -based Activity. A Healthy Philosophy: Healthy Living through Understanding. Healthy Philosophy Wellness Services Inc. (https://ahealthy- philosophy.com/article/swimming-and-water-based-exercise) Aquatics Facilities Operations As discussed, the PARD's four swimming pools were constructed in the 1950s. All of these facilities have reached or exceeded their useable lifespan and require demolition and replacement. As a result, there has been a significant increase in the general costs to operate and maintain the aquatic facilities. The swimming pools utilize archaic pumping / filtration systems that are in very poor condition, and consistently require repair. For example, in 2022 a balance tank at the Montelongo pool failed. The LPARD spent $14,000 on an attempt to repair the tank, which was unsuccessful. The LPARD is now trying to identify a more permanent solution to fix the tank, though this will be costly. The LPARD anticipates that a similar problem will occur at Maxey Pool in the near future. The LPARD has had multiple plumbing failures on the current pool plumbing systems primarily due to age of the systems. Filtration systems have been malfunctioning. Five sand filters have had to be repaired in 2022 and the LPARD anticipates needing to fully replace all sand filters in the near future. Pool amenities, such as the slide at Mae Simmons Pool; and most of the diving board stands have failed and have required significant repairs. With the continued operation, the diving board stand will be requiring replacement. These examples illustrate the kinds of maintenance -related issues the LPARD has been addressing regarding operations and maintenance of the City's pools at this time. More significant problems are anticipated in the near future as aging pool systems and equipment continue to fail. There are no standards or metrics that can be used to determine when a facility needs to be updated or replaced. These decisions will have to be made by the LPARD administration, and operations and maintenance staff. However, given the age and condition of the community's aquatics facilities, it is safe to say that all facilities need significant renovations and that in most cases it will likely be more cost effective to replace the , facility entirely rather than continue to make remedial improvements. f Beyond the costs of operating malfunctioning systems and substandard equipment, it has been difficult (and expensive) to hire lifeguards ($16.00/hour min.) and . maintenance staff to keep the facilities operating safely; including the need to have a security personnel present on -site at each facility to ensure that patrons are adhering to aquatic facility rules and regulations. As depicted in Table 4.17, Aquatics Revenue versus Expenses (2015 - 2020), Table 4.17, Aquatics Revenue versus Expenses, FY 2015 - 2020 -)wimming roofs Swimming Instruction Pool Concessions Pool Rental Aquatics Recreation Annual Subtotals Aquatics Budget Expenses 2017-2020 Subtotals TOTAL 4.47_ • i it Aquatic Facilities $82,475.25 78,410.57 8,258.75 7,270.00 35,770.52 36,080.22 147,293.27 145,800.79 147, 293.27 I 145,800.79 72,593.58 7,354.00 36,936.34 21,192.50 138,076.42 286,987.20 -148,910.78 h 88,861.68 12,275.13 12,312.40 38,065.99 450.00 756.30 24,957.00 5.00 164,197.07 13,486.43 356,413.94 120,959.75 -192,216.87 -107,473.32 i • ! tj Aquatics Programs Lubbock's aquatic facilities are open to the public during the summer season, which lasts from May through August for 10 and one-half weeks, for an admission fee of $3 for adults and $2 for children and youth. Pools are open Tuesday through Sundays from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm. The aquatic programs offered include: • Swimming lessons for children (Ages 4-12) • Swim groups for adults and children • K-9 Splashfest for pet dogs • Pool rentals for private events Table 4.27, Annual Pool Attendance, details the total annual participation in aquatic programs for the previous five years (2016 - 2020). Table 4.18, Annual Pool Attendance Clapp Pool 19,989 18,905 18,516 22,378 - Maxey Pool 10,911 8,283 8,805 9,632 - Mae Simmons 6,153 4,934 5,335 6,169 2,344 Pool Montelongo Pool 13,692 13,234 12,659 13,907 3,105 Total 1 50,745I 45,356I 45,315I 52,086 5,449 *Pools closed due to COVID-19 pandemic are denoted by a hyphen Pool Amenities None of the pools have updated recreational facilities, such as a lazy river, dump buckets, useable diving boards and slides. The restrooms and changing areas associated with three of the pools are decaying and outdated. In response to the Community Survey question regarding whether people used the City's swimming pools, 66 percent reported that they did not. When asked why they do not use the City's swimming pools, 45 percent reported that the pools do not offer amenities or play features that interest them; and 33 percent of respondents identified the poor quality of swimming pools and related facilities to be the main reason they did not use the aquatics facilities. As the aquatics season is on 10 and one-half weeks in duration it is very difficult to generate sufficient revenue to support aquatics facilities operations and maintenance without significant subsidization by the City, through its Parks and Recreation Department. Aquatic Facilities Maintenance One of the biggest challenges facing the City's outdoor pools is the excessive maintenance required due to the age of the facilities. Recent recreation pool trends both nationally and regionally, indicate that there has been an increase in the popularity both indoor and outdoor leisure aquatics, as compared to conventional lap swimming. Currently, indoor aquatic recreation is not available to the public in Lubbock. Making indoor pool options available could provide for year-round swimming opportunities, which is a draw for young families. Splash pads are another popular choice for cities who desire to provide aquatic recreation. Splash pads cost less to install, generally have less maintenance costs, and are more accessible for people of all abilities and ages. Additionally, the ability to turn off the water, thus transforming the space into a plaza, allows for year- round use. The factors discussed below suggest that a strategic approach to aquatics is required to both reduce the cost of operations and maintenance of aquatics facilities and provide a variety of facilities to accommodate the aquatics interests of Lubbock's residents. Three approaches are recommended for advancing and achieving the full potential of a robust municipal aquatics program, each of which will require in-depth feasibility analysis to determine the most efficient and cost-effective path forward. azey Pool hower Room Source: Halff Associates MOV System -wide Approaches 0 Approach 1 As will be discussed, one near -term recommendation is to phase out the under- performing pools that have significant issues and replace them with more modern aquatic amenities, such as splash pads. Beyond the locations of the existing swimming pools, overtime splash pads should be equitably distributed throughout Lubbock and installed in parks throughout the community. 0 Approach 2 Renovate the Clapp outdoor swimming pool to accommodate leisure aquatics and conventional recreational swimming recreational activities. Of the City's four swimming pools, the Clapp Pool is the largest pool as well as the most popular pool, in terms of visitation. The pool's supporting restrooms and changing areas would need to be totally reconstructed. Aquatics amenities would need to be updated; and a splash pad would also need to be constructed. Q Approach 3 Develop a centralized indoor natatorium and recreation center that can provide a variety of facilities for leisure aquatics recreational activities as well as conventional swimming. An indoor aquatics facility will provide opportunities for swimming throughout the year, irrespective of the weather. This will enable the LPARD to provide additional swimming -related offerings, including swimming lessons and team competitive swimming. As discussed in the Indoor Recreation section of this chapter, there are multiple benefits associated with developing an indoor recreation center in Lubbock and would enable the LPARD the opportunity to provide multiple indoor recreational offerings. In advancing all three approaches, the LPARD will need to; and that there is an equitable distribution of aquatic facilities throughout the community. i i• Objective 4.1: Ensure the balanced provision of aquatics programs and variety of aquatic facilities to meet the diverse recreational needs of Lubbock's residents - including all ages, ranges of health, levels of experience, and recreational and athletic interests. Strategy 4.1.1: Develop a comprehensive feasibility analysis for determining the direction of the Parks Department's aquatics program. As discussed in this chapter, attendance at the traditional outdoor pools has been declining, maintenance costs are increasing for these aging pools, and there is demand for additional indoor aquatic options. As with the proposed recreation center in Strategy 4.1.4 (page 4.52) it is recommended that a comprehensive feasibility study be performed for aquatics, which will assist Lubbock in developing a strategic, phased implementation program for addressing the above -mentioned challenges. As discussed in the strategies and actions below, major priorities for aquatic facilities in Lubbock include: • Replacing the swimming pools with splash pads • Renovating the C.L. Clapp Park swimming pool and associated support facilities • Constructing a recreation center / natatorium to support indoor recreation programming and aquatics • Providing additional staffing to support on -site operations • Assessing and updating user fee costs to recover more costs • Renovating pool support facilities, including family bathrooms and changing room facilities • ,- Source, Hlghlanbd Ranch x_ Strategy 4.1.2: Develop a phased program to replace the City's swimming pools with splash pads. Develop a phased capital improvement program, schedule, and budget for demolishing the City's underperforming swimming pools and supporting facilities (e.g., restrooms, changing rooms, concessions, storage buildings) and replacing the pools with splash pads and new support facilities, in the same geographic location as the former swimming pools. The City currently does not operate splash pads in any of its parks. Splash pads offer opportunities for families of all types to engage with aquatic play while also lowering costs for municipalities. These facilities can also function year-round as multi -purpose parks which changes in function depending on the season. According to the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA), one in five children have some type of disability, yet their needs are often excluded in traditional recreation spaces. Splash pads foster physical development for people of all abilities, providing sensory stimulation through tactile interactions with water sprays, streams and jets. Compared to conventional swimming pools, there are many construction, operations, and maintenance -related benefits associated with splash pads:z 2. Crafton Tull, 2022. Splash Pads benefit Cities and Residents (https://www.craftontull. corn/insights/ins ight_posts/view/62/splash - pads- benefit -cities -and -residents) Morgan's Inspiration Island Splash Pad at Morgan's Wonderland, San Antonio, Texas. Source: Morgan's Wonderland Construction: Costs for constructing splash pads are typically much less than swimming pools. In addition, stand-alone splash pads do not require many of the security features found at municipal pools, such as fencing, gates, and administration facilities. Operations: The cost of operating a splash pad are much less than that of a swimming pool. There are two main types of splash pad systems: recirculating and pass - through. The cost varies based on the type of system used. Recirculating systems collect the water within a holding tank where it is treated and filtered and pumps it back out again to the spray nozzles. This system requires scheduled water monitoring and adjusting of chemicals. While it uses much less water, it is more expensive to monitor. A pass -through system uses potable water and drains directly to the sanitary system and therefore no monitoring is required. The main cost is the potable water. Some systems collect the water and utilize it as a gray water application such as drip irrigation. Splash pads generally require minimal oversight compared to swimming pools. If there is no charge to the residents to use the splash pad, access control personnel are not always required. Safety concerns, in general, are lower and do not require the hiring of lifeguard personnel. From a safety standpoint, splash pads have very little standing water, offering a safe environment in which children can play without the risk of drowning. LBK Chapter4, Indoor Recreation and Aquatics IrWaia �^ -- Jurassic Jungle Splash ��x SourcHalff Associates Splash Pad Operations and Maintenence According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), splash pad operators should follow all applicable local, state, tribal, or territorial pool codes and can consult the CDC's Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC - https://www.cdc. gov/mahc/index.htni The CDC's MAHC has the following guidance for splash pad operation and management to help prevent the spread of germs, including Naegleria fowleri, in water:3 Maintain adequate disinfectant level in the water: — Minimum free available chlorine of 1.0 ppm (mg/L), if not using cyanuric acid (such as stand-alone cyanuric acid or stabilized chlorine, commonly known as "dichlor" or "trichlor") — Minimum free available chlorine of 2.0 ppm, if using cyanuric acid — Minimum total bromine of 3.0 ppm • Maintain pH at 7.2-7.8 • Conduct daily inspection before opening to the public: — Ensure disinfection, secondary disinfection (such as W and ozone), and recirculation systems and filters are operating — Inspect for and remove biofilm on splash pad surfaces (such as the tank, spray nozzles, and drains) as required • Test free available chlorine or total bromine and pH before opening to the public each day and maintain adequate disinfectant level. • Test free available chlorine or total bromine and pH every 2-4 hours while open to the public and maintain adequate disinfectant level. • Maintain water turnover times at 30 minutes or less. • Ensure drains prevent standing water from collecting in the water play area. Inspect tank regularly — Clean tank, as needed • Document operation and management activities such as water testing results, response to testing results, and equipment maintenance (such as tank cleaning) and repairs. • Ensure all staff who handle pool chemicals (such as chlorine, bromine, and acid) are trained in pool chemical safety. • Test the backflow preventers regularly to ensure they prevent backf low, or back siphonage, into the water distribution system serving the splash pad. 3. CDC, 2021. Operation and Management of Splash Pads. Strategy 4.1.3: Consider replacing the C. L. Clapp Swimming Pool. Pursue the demolition / replacement program summarized in Strategy 4.1.1; with the exception of the Clapp Swimming Pool, which is the most popular pool and hosted almost 20,000 visitors from 2016-2019. The pool along with its associated support facilities is centrally located within the City and could be renovated, to ensure there is an option for conventional outdoor lap swimming and leisure aquatic recreation. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Demolish and replace the pool shell and circulation, filtration, and chemical supply equipment. 2. Update the Clapp Swimming Pool with new diving boards, slide, dumping buckets, and other leisure aquatic recreational amenities. 3. Ensure ADA compliance by installing new pool lifts. 4. Consider the provision of stationary aquatic therapy equipment such as pool bikes, and underwater treadmills. 5. Consider extending the 10 and one-half week operating period to 16 weeks to allow for early morning lap swimming. Strategy 4.1.4: Consider constructing a centralized, full -service recreation center/ natatorium. As discussed, the City of Lubbock does not have a full -service indoor recreation center or natatorium. Lubbock's swimming season is only 10 and one-half weeks long. A recreation center / natatorium would enable the provision of a variety of indoor recreation and aquatics programs all year. As summarized in the Pearland Natatorium case study, the facility could house... Initiatives and Actions: 1. Visit well -established natatoriums in the general vicinity of Lubbock (e.g., the City of Hobbs' Center of recreational Excellence (CORE), the City of Pearland's Natatorium (refer to sidebar on page 4.54), and elsewhere around Texas to evaluate visitation costs, staffing requirements, annual operations and maintenance costs, and recreational program offerings. 2. Until the LPARD establishes a City -owned, administered, and operated aquatics center / natatorium, promote resident membership at Texas Tech University's aquatics facilities, including the leisure pool and the aquatic center (refer to sidebar on page 4.53). 3. Partner with Lubbock Sports and West Texas Swimming (WTSI), Inc., and other local swimming committees within USA Swimming to evaluate under what conditions could LPARD-administered, and other, competitive swimming programs be part of Lubbock's sports tourism program. 4. Approach Frenship ISD and Lubbock -Cooper ISD about the prospect and advantages of utilizing a City -owned aquatics facility to facilitate expanded aquatics programs. Lubbock -Cooper ISD currently relies on utilizing TTU's Aquatic Center. 4.52 Sidebar Texas Tech UREC Facilities The University Recreation Center (UREC) at Texas Tech University offers a variety of indoor and outdoor recreational facilities and events for Texas Tech students and Lubbock residents. The indoor UREC Aquatic Center allows the campus to maintain an open pool facility year-round and features a 50-meter pool, as well as standard 25-yard lap lanes at varying depths. The Aquatic Center pool also contains a water basketball hoop, climbing wall, and space for group fitness classes. During the summer months, however, the Aquatic Center is not available for open swim as the space is used exclusively for instruction -based classes such as the American Red Cross Learn -to -Swim program and CPR/AED certification courses. While the Aquatic Center pool is closed for the summer, members can visit the outdoor leisure pool, featuring a lazy river, splash pad, three-tier wet deck, spa, and eight lane lap pool In addition to aquatics, UREC offers indoor health and wellness programs at the Robert H. Ewalt Student Recreation Center. Amenities at this facility include free weights and circuit training rooms, seven sports courts, aerobics studios, 1/8-mile jogging track, and a squash court. The UREC Outdoor Pursuits Center (OPC) coordinates student travel to outdoor destinations such as Palo Duro Canyon or skiing trips in Colorado. The OPC also offers low-cost outdoor equipment rentals for Texas Tech students, as well as all current UREC members. Membership to the UREC facilities is open to all Texas Tech students and faculty, as well as residents of the City of Lubbock through the off -campus affiliate membership. The off -campus affiliate includes all Texas Tech Alumni, government employees, school district employees, and members of the Texas Tech Alumni Association. Membership to the Alumni Association is open to all, regardless of graduation status, meaning anyone in the community can join even if they never attended Texas Tech in the past. Off -campus affiliate memberships to UREC facilities has an annual rate of $380 or a monthly rate of $40. Off -campus affiliates can add a spouse or dependent to their membership for an additional fee. UREC Leisure Pool Facility Source: Texas Tech University 7 - -/ r_ 5 -77 Sidebar City of Pearland, Texas Recreation Center and Natatorium The City of Pearland, Texas, Parks and Recreation Department Recreation Center and Natatorium is a one - stop shop for health and wellness -related recreation. The Recreation Center and Natatorium boasts a 107,000-square-foot facility featuring sports -related amenities such as a two -basketball court gymnasium, racquetball courts, zero depth entry pool, 50-meter competition pool, and an elevated track. Additionally, the Recreation Center hosts a "Kidz Korner" childcare program for members to utilize during their workout at the facility. There are two multi -purpose rooms available to the public for a fee, as well as aerobics and dance rooms for group instruction. The Recreation Center and Natatorium generates approximately $1,026,000 in revenue annually and does not operate as an enterprise fund. At the time of construction in 2010, the Recreation Center and Natatorium cost approximately $17 million. The facility has 10 full time equivalent (FTE) employees to operate and manage the facility aside from programming and event staff. Annual maintenance costs for the facility are approximately $710,000, including budget items that require annual maintenance. Memberships to the Recreation Center and Natatorium are offered at monthly and annual rates for individuals and households as well as individual day passes and group exercise passes. Household memberships can have a maximum of five adults and four children for $660 - $990/year or $69.30 - $104.50/month depending on residency status. Individual memberships offer admittance for one person and cost $231 - $490/year or $24.20 - $52.80/month depending on residency status. Single day use passes are available and cost between three and eight dollars. Nonmembers may also pre- pay for 20 group instruction classes at the Recreation Center and Natatorium for $50. 'first Floor a unuo M10N"""0AL � IIIIIIII pa��w.E �oMeI,mRR�eM �RR,ee,�aRR,R, Natatorium RR�a,I aFeices Mee, Roorn FRNILY � � RCOAI --iiiiiisi I / '_ #V49OO�ll1llIlllllIlIllll 4.54 Strategy 4.1.5: Develop and implement a range of aquatics program offerings. With new aquatics facilities, develop program offerings to accommodate the full range of additional aquatics recreational interests, including LPARD-administered competitive swimming and diving, water polo, swimming classes, senior aquatic aerobics, and events -based facilities rentals. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Whether aquatics program registrants are interested in a low -impact aquatics workout in, or would like to learn to swim, it is important to adhere to the following principles:4 — Keep it convenient. Before scheduling new programs, identify the target audiences and determine what times and days might be most convenient for the intended audience, in light of school schedules, local holidays, and other factors that may prevent them from attending. — Develop offerings for new audiences. Inventory current aquatics programming and identify gaps. Consider whether there is a way to add -on to current offerings. One example would be offering special memberships for high school and college students during their summer break. By making it more cost-effective for this demographic to use the pool during the break, there may be a higher ,*chance of boosting participation. 4. Rana, Tarana 2022. 4 Aquatic Program Ideas that will Boost Registrations. Xplore Recreation (https://blog.perfectmind.com/4-ways-to-incrEWse-registrations-for-your- aquatic-programs 9 4.55 — Look for ways to re-engage and retain regular and/ or repeat members, to ensure they continue to register for new aquatics programs. — Having a marketing and communication plan in place to promote LPARD aquatics facilities and program offerings. Educate people on the benefits of aquatic exercise and promote municipal facilities —to both members and the public. Develop a marketing plan to target specific audiences, both through print and online marketing. 2. Consider new trends that could be adapted to the LPARD's new aquatics facilities. Partner with third - party private instructors to provide specialized aquatics classes, such as lifeguard and CPR training, personal training, triathlete training, and scuba diving certification. `'4767s Memorial Pool Water Aerobics, Elgin, Texas Y'< •'Y+'- Elg in, in, Texas Parks and Recreation g Objective 4.2: Ensure that the administration, operations, and maintenance of LPARD aquatics facilities is fiscally sustainable. Establishing a new municipal aquatics program and implementing a range of new aquatics facilities will require a significant capital outlay. To ensure the LPARD aquatics program and associated programming is administration, operations, and maintenance is fiscally sustainable, will require dedicated funding and additional staffing. Strategy 4.2.1: Expand the LPARD's administration of aquatics. The expansion of LPARD programming and facilities operations and maintenance will require additional staffing. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Develop a staffing plan consisting of full-time equivalent (FTE) positions as well as part-time summer employees to meet the administrative requirements of operating and maintaining aquatics facilities as well as conducting new aquatics programs. Source: Longview News -Journal Strategy 4.2.2: Evaluate options for cost recovery. Consider the full range through which the LPARD's aquatics program facilities, services, and program offerings can be financially supported by user fees and/or other funding mechanisms such as grants, partnerships, donations, and sponsorships. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Develop a resource allocation guide and foundation for cost recovery and subsidy levels based on "Who benefits" from the LPARD's aquatics program. 2. Establish philosophical priorities based on a traditional service model (e.g., community wellbeing, social equity, health and wellness, community outreach, etc.) as well as a market -driven model (e.g., revenue generating amenities and revenue - producing programs). 3. Conduct an aquatics facility specific operational study that would analyze :5 — operational data for the proposed indoor aquatic center including attendance projections and trends — admission and pricing structure, aquatic program offerings, projected number of hosted competitive events, projected revenue, operating expenses, net operating income and net income after capital costs — proposed marketing strategies, pricing policies and sponsorship efforts — analysis of market demographics including population levels and trends, incomes, and age distribution — a review of local ISD, college, and university school year schedules — a review of competing indoor aquatic facilities in the West and Central Texas area — projections of design level attendance figures and required capacity requirements — projections of facility operational expenses including, personnel, chemical demand, operating supplies, maintenance and repair, utility demand, marketing, food and beverage and retail — projections of overall financial performance of the proposed recreation center / natatorium 5. Counsilman-Hunsaker, 2020. Eanes Independent School District Westlak High School Aquatic Center Study (https:Hresources.finalsite.net/images/vl580333770/ eanesisdnet/cthOgb8mligl pelyarst/ProposedAquaticsFacility0perationalCostsAnal- ysis.pdf) M: Summary of Findings Objective 3.1: Ensure that existing community centers and senior centers serve the social and civic needs of the communities they serve. • Lubbock's community centers were built between 1951 and 1973 and do not provide modern community center amenities. LPARD should look to renovate / expand community centers with additional interior and exterior enhancements to properly serve the current social and civic needs of the community. • Construct at least two additional community centers. • Expand programming in the arts, field trips, and gardening. Objective 3.2: Focus the functions of the community centers and adult activity centers on programmatic activities other than the use of fitness equipment. Objective 3.3: Provide facilities to meet the indoor recreational and physical fitness interests of the community. • LPARD should conduct a comprehensive feasibility analysis for developing a Recreation Center and associated Natatorium. • Developing a recreation center and natatorium will enable the City to develop a range of additional indoor athletics and recreational programs for individuals, teams, and leagues. A new facility will enable the City's new leagues to compete regionally with other communities in West Texas and elsewhere. Objective 4.1: Ensure the balanced provisions of aquatic programs and variety of aquatics facilities to meet the diverse recreational needs in Lubbock. • LPARD should develop a phased program to replace the City's swimming pools with splash pads. • LPARD should consider renovating Clapp Pool. Clapp Pool is the most popular pool and hosted nearly 20,000 visitors from 2016 to 2019. The pool along with its associated support facilities is centrally located within the City and could be renovated to ensure there is an option for conventional outdoor lap swimming and leisure aquatic recreation. • LPARD should consider constructing a centralized, full -service recreation center / natatorium to provide year-round aquatics recreational activities. Lubbock's current swimming season is only 10 and one-half weeks long. • LPARD should develop a range of new aquatics programming. With new aquatics facilites, LPARD could develop program offerings to accommodate the full range of additional recreational interests, including LPARD-administered competitive swimming and diving, water polo, swimming classes, and events - based facilities rentals. 4.57 Objective 4.2: Ensure that the administration, operations, and maintenance of LPARD aquatics facilities is fiscally sustainable. • The expansion of LPARD aquatics will require additional staffing at all aquatics and recreational facilities. LPARD should develop a staffing plan consisting of FTE positions as well as part-time and summer employees to meet the administrative requirements of operating and maintaining aquatics facilities. • LPARD should consider the full range through which the LPARD's aquatics program facilities, services, and program offerings can be financially supported by user fees and/or other funding mechanisms such as grants, partnerships, donations, and sponsorships. 3p I Chapter 5 Lubbock Lakes A - n Table of Contents Introduction...............................................................................................................................................................5.1 Map 5.1, Canyon Lakes Regional Context........................................................................................................................5.2 Background...............................................................................................................................................................5.3 Function and System Overview..............................................................................................................................5.4 Figure5.1, Canyon Lakes Context..................................................................................................................................5.4 LandscapeCharacter...............................................................................................................................................5.5 Figure5.2, Canyon Lakes Watershed...........................................................................................................................5.7 Heritage...................................................................................................................................................................... 5.8 CanyonLakes Hydrology.........................................................................................................................................5.9 Figure5.3, Canyon Lakes Dams.....................................................................................................................................5.9 AdjacentLand Uses..................................................................................................................................................5.11 Figure 5.4, Canyon Lakes Adjacent Land Uses..........................................................................................................5.14 Canyon Lakes Strategic Perspectives..................................................................................................................5.15 Visionfor the Canyon Lakes...................................................................................................................................5.16 Goal 5: The Canyon Lakes is a regional destination for adventure in the heart of the Llano Estacado ..... 5.18 Objective 5.1: Manage the Canyon Lakes as a unique environmental system...............................................5.18 Sidebar, Five Steps to Successful Prairie Restoration............................................................................................5.21 Figure5.5, Prairie Hiking Trails........................................................................................................................................5.21 Objective 5.2: Improve pedestrian access to and circulation within the Canyon Lakes..............................5.28 Map 5.2, Existing Conditions and Constriants................................................................................................................5.33-5.34 Map 5.3, Landscape, Circulation, and Recreational Improvements.........................................................................5.36-5.44 Objective 5.3: Improve water -based recreational opportunities......................................................................5.49 Figure 5.6, Blueway Improvement Program................................................................................................................5.50 Figure5.7, Avenue Q Portage..........................................................................................................................................5.51 Objective 5.4: Develop a robust nature -based recreation and adventure tourism program ......................5.54 Sidebar, Natural Playgrounds.........................................................................................................................................5.59 Sidebar, Adventure Playgrounds....................................................................................................................................5.60 Sidebar, Adventure Parks.................................................................................................................................................5.61 Figure 5.7, Adventure Racing Opportunities...............................................................................................................5.62 Sidebar, Adventure Racing..............................................................................................................................................5.63 Objective 5.5: Provide programmed and unprogrammed open spaces.........................................................5.64 Objective 5.6: Improve public safety within the Canyon Lakes system...........................................................5.67 Sidebar, Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design...................................................................................5.70 Objective 5.7: Develop a unique and identifiable brand and associated communication............................5.71 Sidebar, Parks Branding and Marketing.......................................................................................................................5.73 Objective 5.8: Plan for parks and recreational facility improvements - Proposed Lake 7............................5.75 Map 5.4, Lake No. 7 Restrictive Easement and Proposed Trail Alignment.............................................................5.76 Objective 5.9: Lake Alan Henry is a financially sustainable enterprise and regional destination...............5.79 Table 5.1, Revenue Generated from Lake Alan Henry's Sam Wahl Recreation..................................................5.81 Map 5.5, Proposed Improvements to the Sam Wahl Recreation Area....................................................................5.88 Summaryof Findings...............................................................................................................................................5.90 Introduction Purpose The purpose of Chapter 5, Lubbock Lakes, is to lay out a community -driven plan for preserving, managing, and developing the Canyon Lakes into a place that reflects the heart of the landscape of West Texas, the Llano Estacado; and the pioneering spirit of the people who settled here and decided to call Lubbock home. This chapter proposes a nature -based, and adventure -based recreation program; within a landscape where individuals and groups can go to escape the confines of the city. In conjunction with land - based and water -based recreational activities and a sustainable land management program, this chapter proposes a branding program that further recognizes Lubbock as a unique hub of activity and regional destination. I Kent St. cAlister CID Yellow Ho usk Dra akaLubboc N z t iDH-e&Histe++ Lan-dmark Ursuline St.. Huffm n file om ex Erskin St. f m x 4th m �- s istador !(#1) lapp 'Vagl Lake Lubbock Is St Lubbo k siness r 19th (# Dunbar Lake Park ubbock Ci etery r 82nd 98th 114th Q 130th I n IN Kent St. 0a N 2800 �rth Fork D ubl Mountain Fork Brazos Rit er iOth oy _ East FM 3020 01 3523 Buffalo Springs Lake Idalou, Tex LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN Client: City of Lubbock Consultants: Half Associates, Inc. Data Sources: City of Lubbock, Texas; Texas Tech Univeristy; LEGEND 0 Lubbock City Limits Interstates, State Roads, and Principal Arterial Roads Collector, Arterial, and Local Roads Rail lines IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII� Streams and Rivers Playa Lakes - Lakes Parks Canyon Lakes Parks 1/2mile 1 mile 2 mile r,�e Honn 1/q (Quarter) square mile MAP 5.1; CANYON LAKES REGIONAL CONTEXT June 2022 5 • 6 0 4 • t 9 0 s 5.3 Context Background The Jim Bertram Canyon Lakes System is a series of narrow, man-made lakes, which were created by the City of Lubbock in the early 1970s, within the watershed which comprises the North Fork of the Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos River. The system currently consists of six lakes that stretch across Lubbock, from northwest to southeast, including the lakes are Conquistador Lake (Lake 1), Llano Estacado Lake (Lake 2), Comancheria Lake (Lake 3), Vaquero Lake (Lake 4), Canyon Lake (Lake 5), and Dunbar Historical Lake (Lake 6). The lakes compose one of two major tributaries of the Brazos River heading southeast. Once a much wetter region, the northern tributaries that feed into the Canyon Lakes, which include the Yellow House Draw, and Blackwater Draw, were once continually flowing bodies of water. As Lubbock's agricultural sector grew, water was diverted, and water use increased. This caused the two northern tributaries to run dry for most of the year. This was a major concern as the Canyon Lakes region was and still is a major recharge location for the Ogallala Aquifer. Lubbock's' main source of usable water is from ground water sources. To ensure the continuation of fresh drinking and agricultural water, Lubbock's hydrological system needed to be redesigned. In the 1930s plans were developed to dredge the tributaries, in an attempt to reduce air -born contamination from sediments carried to the tributaries from agricultural fields, but this effort was unsuccessful. A new approach was adopted to preserve water by constructing river dams creating lakes and utilizing reusable water sources. Yellow House Draw at Lubbock Lake National Historic Landmark Source: Texas State Historical Association Effluent, which is wastewater that has been cleaned and processed by a wastewater treatment plant, is now used to irrigate crops at Lubbock's Land Application Site, located east of Dunbar Lake (No. 6). A system of 31 sprinklers are used to irrigate 8,000 acres of crops with 13-million gallons of treated effluent each day. The Lubbock Land Application Site is one of the oldest continuously operating, slow -rate land application systems in the United States. Since the addition of the Canyon Lakes System, there has been a considerable reduction in the groundwater nitrate levels' The City of Lubbock's Water Resources Department manages the City's water supply, raw water transmission system, two surface water treatment plants, the water distribution system, two wastewater treatment plants, as well as water reuse and disposal facilities. Pavilions at Lubbock Lake Landmark Source: Halff Associates Lubbock water treatment plant Source: City of Lubbock Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan PAR D Landscape Character Llano Estacado The Llano Estacado is one of the largest mesas, or tablelands, in the North American continent. It encompasses parts of eastern New Mexico and northwest Texas and includes the cities of Odessa, Carlsbad, and Lubbock. The area is subject to frequent dust storms because of its low relief, turbulent winds, lack of vegetation, and loose topsoil. The Llano Estacado consists of a semiarid climate characterized by long, hot summers and cold winters. Rainfall is relatively low with Lubbock only receiving approximately 20 inches per year compared to a national average of 38 inches annually. As discussed in Chapter 2, Lubbock's Parks, the Llano Estacado landscape is dotted with small playa lakes, which are a type of shallow wetland that only fills with water seasonally after heavy rainfall events. Compared to other wetlands, playas experience frequent, unpredictable cycles of wet and dry seasons. Playa lakes can be found throughout the states of Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Colorado but the highest density of playas is in Texas. It is estimated there are as many as 30,000 playa lakes in Texas, most are smaller than 30 acres, but some can be as large as 800 acres. Thousands of species have adapted to the extreme conditions of irregular rain, wind, heat and cold in the Llano Estacado. The Llano Estacado provides a wide diversity of habitats for wildlife including the playa lakes, various prairies, and canyons. Playas are important landscape features for areas where there is low annual rainfall and no permanent rivers or streams. Though they can be aesthetically unremarkable during dry seasons, they support a surprising diversity of wildlife, and provide critical habitat for important species of migratory birds, waterfowl, and amphibians. Even though playa lakes are only active a few times a year, they are an important part of the semiarid, plains ecosystem. Playa lakes also serve to seasonally recharge the Ogallala Aquifer, one of the world's largest aquifers which stretches beneath eight states including South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Texas. Today the aquifer supplies approximately 30 percent of the ground water used for irrigation in the United States, supporting an estimated two million people, and is at risk of over - extraction and pollution. If depleted, this aquifer it will take over 6,000 years to replenish naturally through rainfall. Water collects in the playa lakes before slowly trickling down to replenish the Ogallala Aquifer. It is estimated that playa lakes filter and recharge as much as 95 percent of the water collected in the southern portion of the aquifer. • Llano Estacado Topography Source: USDA, Agriculture Research Service Playa lakes in the Llano Estacado Source: Kevin Kraai. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department - i 1 s 5.5 Prairie Landscapes Native grasslands or prairies are diverse plant communities where 50 to 90 percent of the vegetation is composed of grasses. Grasslands and Prairies cover between 30 to 40 percent of Earth's total land area, and is comprised of grasses, forbs, scattered trees. Grasses were important ecological features found across much of early Texas and America. Now, due to human driven changes in the environment, only isolated relic native prairies sites remain. Soil that once supported these vast plant communities of native perennial grasses and herbaceous plants now maintain a thriving farming economy. The decrease in aquifer levels, large scale stock farming, crop farming, and drier conditions have made it difficult for a diverse shortgrass prairie ecosystem to thrive. Lubbock is located within the High Plains ecoregion of Texas consisting of shortgrass prairies. The historic vegetation of the High Plains was variously classified as mixed prairie, shortgrass prairie, and in some locations on deep, sandy soils as tallgrass prairie. Shortgrass prairies have become the most dominant grass ecosystem types stretching from central Alberta to central Texas, passing through southeast Wyoming and eastern Colorado to the panhandle of Nebraska and west Kansas through the high plains in Oklahoma, Texas, and northern New Mexico. A shortgrass prairie in the West Texas area is dominated by shortgrasses such as buffalograss and blue grama. These two grasses comprise 70-90 percent of the shortgrass prairie composition by weight. However, prairies' soil structure and composition have been irreversibly changed by development, preventing the creation of a totally restored prairie community. Because it is unrealistic to expect that such a complex ecosystem can be totally reinstated on dramatically altered sites, prairie restorations will almost always have fewer species present than natural prairies would have. This exemplifies why restoration is never a substitute for conservation, but rather a process that complements it. Topography Due to its central location in the Llano Estacado, the western portions of Lubbock have large expanses of relatively flat land. There is notable elevation change, however, in the eastern portion of the city near the Canyon Lakes system. The Canyon Lakes are characterized by steep hills that lead to the lake system, creating beautiful vistas for nearby residential neighborhoods. Lake 1, Conquistador Lake, has an elevation of approximately 980 meters, as the Canyon Lakes continue southeast, the elevation change becomes much more drastic and lakes such as Dunbar Historical Lake are deeper, with elevations around 960 meters. The above two -foot contour map of Hodges Park demostrates the elevation changes surrounding the Canyon Lakes in the Yellow House Canyon compared to the relatively flat topography outside of the Canyon. Shortg ass Pr irie 1 Mixedgi Prairi �I Lubbock Coun�v �- QASPFRMONT, TX �FIR FFPORT, TX, `V Brazos River at Ned Houk Memorial Park Brazos River near Aspermont, Texas Brazos River near Waco, Texas Brazos River in Freeport, Texas, near the near Clovis, New Mexico Source: USDA, Agriculture Research Service Source: TourTexas Gulf of Mexico Source: All Trails, Ronald Freitag Source: Marinas.com Figure 5.2, Canyon Lakes Watershed The Brazos River Watershed Colfax As previously stated, Lubbock was established along the North Fork of the Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos Dalian, Sherman H.-Mrall ochRttee Upccam River. The headwaters, consisting of the Yellow House wmtna Estaca o Draw and Blackwater Draw, begin north of Lubbock Hartley .took. 11 Iraharlx ye near Fieldton and Whitharral, Texas. Double Mountain Fork is one of two major tributaries of the Brazos River a...rrawr Oldham P. wn Grey h—lim connecting Lubbock to Waco and College Station. The headwaters of the Red River, Trinity River, Brazos River, 115rnith R. al r sir a It ling. and Colorado Rivers are dry creek beds that eventually `1 attain enough waterto supply year-round water flow downstream. • dy • . F�drar Cash 'sh•r 6tlstar Hall o•arce • P_la.l.r_ Hardaman CLO IS 6ailry •Lamb• hide Pi M y Cattle Willf—g.r a. •t Fcard Wisl/it4 om • • �l • • 4.1 c—ar loch,.. Ha lrlry Lu• C R y nha Cana• 3 n I Fannln Lamar Red Ri,ggr Tri i Riv r I r `L • • Jisk Denton Cdin -, •'Iriairrq Tcrty Lynn en a rl asks rockmor ahurg Hum nkl�ii M. Cass 17-0-71 �.. 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BaJ�Mash'�ngtan Prsaldl4 FdrraTOc st r t' kin Kenddl r � @trxntrr Yal Yard■ Real Bandon Contal d— stl I�Is errs 4 Hous wdelu SN Eaaar 6onni ortBend Qllne)r llralde hlldin■ La'rata hi Iv n wllsvn Bra oewlH Jllaseosa Yarn FREEPORT d Iivaha Frio Ictorla Maiepot 6aliid 5.7 Dlmmil rMaaa a Ihou La Salle iYr Oa R� an Patric Heritage The Yellow House Draw or Canyon is a major landmark in the Llano Estacado. It cuts a gap of more than 35 miles into the eastern edge of the Caprock escarpment in Lubbock and Crosby counties. The canyon is hardly noticeable until central Lubbock County, just north of the City of Lubbock. From there it crosses the northern and eastern sections of the city. The canyon becomes more pronounced south of Buffalo Springs Lake, near the future site of Jim Bertram Lake (Lake 7). Prehistoric Significance The canyon was carved by gradual erosion beginning approximately two million years ago, artifacts found at the Lubbock Lake National Historic and State Archeological Landmark indicate the area has been inhabited by people for more than 11,000 years. Prehistoric animals occupying the region included bison, mammoths, camels, early horses, and giant armadillos. Coyotes, wolves, antelope, prairie dogs, and black bears were among later arrivals.' Over the years, as more humans settled in the Texas South Plains region, the ecosystem has changed. It has been estimated that 130 years ago the landscape between San Angelo and Amarillo was likely composed of five million buffalo, a million pronghorn antelope, and half a billion prairie dogs. The land was carpeted with prairie grasses, interspersed with isolated mesquite patches near watering holes. Today very little of this exists. The landscape has changed.4 Archaeological dig at Lubbock Lake National Historic Landmark Source: Archaeological Institute of America 3. TSHA I Yellow House Draw (tshaonline.org) 4.https:gsibleynaturecenter.org/explore/read/Ilano-estacado-landscape Cultural / Historic Significance The Llano Estacado was first described by Francisco V6zquez de Coronado in a letter to the king of Spain in 1541. He described the area to the king as follows, "I reached some plains so vast, that I did not find their limit anywhere I went, although I travelled over them for more than 300 leagues ... with no more landmarks than if we had been swallowed up by the sea... there was not a stone, nor bit of rising ground, nor a tree, nor a shrub, nor anything to go by." The Llano Estacado is cut off from the rest of the High Plains by the Canadian River and from the lower plains by the Caprock escarpment, it merges directly only with the Edwards Plateau to the south. All streams flowing east from the Llano Estacado originate on the caprock and flow out ono the lower plains through the Caprock escarpment. Among the most significant cultural events in Lubbock's recent history is Joe Ely's Tornado Jam, a series of three annual rock concerts that were held in the Buddy Holly Recreation Area between 1980 and 1982. The first concert was held on May 11th,1980, the ten-year anniversary of the deadly tornado which took the lives of 26 people. Proclaimed as a celebration of the tornado's departure and a fundraiser for the victims, the concert was permitted and became an annual event until it grew too large and began to damage the grounds of the Buddy Holly Recreation Area. V XIrS)CQNLILL.L WELCOME • r TO o Q OOBY HOLLY F N =� " M 1 B T X S e Z A 9 £p7UN,yQh�,Y uJ S 12 NO©N PAIN OR SHINE Q NO GLASS CONTAINERS. PROOOCEO BY REYLINE. s. Sources: 1-LoneStar Music Magazine 2-Linda Ronstadt- Fans Discussion, ProBoards 3-John Cline Youtube 4-SWCO DSPace Home 5-LoneStar Music Magazine 6-Worth Point <He Y""Ejyeaid J6ysoyaa"� g 7-John Cline Youtube the%_, J,AyA%" 8-John Cline Youtube limm'QIb!M+ �ya;wHge.n+ 1980 and 1982 Joe Ely's Tornado Jam at Buddy Holly Recreational Area M] Canyon Lakes Hydrology Dam 1 at Hodges Park Dam 2 at Llano Estacado Lake Dam 3 at Canyon Rim Park Figure 5.3, Canyon Lakes Dams Draw e ti ft ,.00-� to Dam 4 at MacKenzie Park Lake North Dam 5 at MacKenzie Park Lake South Dam 6 at Dunbar Lake NW �Mackenzie Park /''� Ba ^9sy omancher Ador nano EsYac L= �` $ IPorth Fork 1\� n Double i Fork Brazoszos Ri Riv r _ Yellow He Draw 9e \ / / \ 1 ' 5.9 Lake Dam Canyon Lakes Dams The Canyon Lakes System is a six and one-half mile chain of lakes and tributaries derived from the construction of a series of dams in northeast Lubbock. Over 55 percent of the city's public parkland is within the Canyon Lakes System. Conquistador Lake is the northernmost lake in the Canyon Lakes System and begins south of Loop 289. A concrete overflow structure (Dam 1) at the south end of the lake impounds water upstream. This structure is classified as a "low -risk dam." The top of the structure is approximately six feet wide and may be crossed by pedestrians. However, it is not considered ADA-accessible and has no safety edge or guardrail treatments. Dam 2 is a concrete structure similar to Dam 1 and is located northwest of the intersection of N. Avenue U and Erskine Street. It forms the water body known as Llano Estacado Lake, located near the Buddy Holly Recreational Area and Helen Hodges McLean Park. Comancheria Lake is the third lake in the Canyon Lakes System. The Lake extends southwest from Dam 2 to Dam 3, which is located east of N. Avenue Q, before the waterway crosses under US Interstate 27. Potable water system extending to Lake Alan Henry Lake Alan Henry is a reservoir created by the construction of the John T. Montford Dam in 1993, it is operated by the City of Lubbock and serves as a tertiary water supply source, providing 25-30 percent of the City's potable water. Currently Lubbock obtains most of its drinking water from ground water well fields in nearby counites, however these wells draw water from the Ogallala Aquifer which is a non-renewable water source and has limits on the amount of water that can be taken. The City uses Lake Meredith (north of Amarillo) and Lake Alan Henry (southeast of Post) as renewable surface water sources and plans to construct additional infrastructure so that more potable water can be drawn from Lake Alan Henry. The end goal for the city is to use more water from renewable sources, like Lake Alan Henry, and less from non-renewable sources like the Ogallala Aquifer. A tributary flows from the base of Comancheria Lake to another flood control structure at Cesar E. Chavez Drive and E. Broadway. This structure is technically not a dam but acts as a vehicular low water crossing. However, it impounds water to form Vaquero Lake. This lake is located east of the South Plains Fairgrounds and south of Texas State Highway 82. Dunbar Historical Lake is the last largest lake in the Canyon Lakes System. It stretches from a western terminus at MLK Jr. Boulevard to a concrete dam structure located west of the railroad line before passing under Loop 289. A water level gauge station here at Dam 6 assists in monitoring the dynamic water level of the Canyon Lakes. Although it is not considered to be part of the Canyon Lakes System, a future dam is proposed for creation of the proposed Jim Bertram Lake (Lake 7) that is to be located east of US Interstate 27. This lake will be the largest of the lakes at 774 surface acres. nyon Lakes North Fork Douh Mountain Fork Brazos River Double Mountain Fork Brazos River Lake Alan Henry Base Map Source: United States Geological Survey, Esrl Hen Ian White River Brazos River 5.10 Location Adjacent Land Uses The Canyon Lakes system begins near the Buddy Holly Recreation Area in northwest Lubbock and meanders through most of northern Lubbock before ending in southeast Lubbock. Because this system is so large and passes through many parts of Lubbock there are a range of adjacent land uses including residential neighborhoods, schools, parks, and a variety of light industrial manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution sites. Residential There are seven residential neighborhoods surrounding the Canyon Lakes. A majority of units are single- family homes built before 1990. There is currently no residential land uses along Lake 1 (Conquistador Lake). There are four residential clusters south of Lake 2 (Llano Estacado) and Lake 3 (Comancheria Lake). The residential areas along Lake 2 and Lake 3 are buffered by mainly undeveloped land and industry / warehousing. Residents in these neighborhoods are faced with many constraints related to connectivity with the Canyon Lakes, such as the railroad to the south, Clovis Road (a major throughfare), two major railroad spurs bisecting the neighborhoods, the Martha Sharp Freeway, Interstate 27, and the divided throughfare Avenue Q (as shown on Map 5.2, Existing Conditions and Constraints). There is scattered residential development to the north and east of MacKenzie Park. Residents in these neighborhoods do not have pedestrian or bicycle infrastructure to connect to the Canyon Lakes in an east west direction, but are connected to the north and south by M.L.K. Jr. Boulevard. Connectivity constraints include railroad crossings, major throughfares such as Military Road, TX-289 Loop, East Broadway, Idalou Road / East 19th Street (as shown on Map 5.2, Existing Conditions and Constraints). These neighborhoods are interspersed with limited industrial and warehousing uses and have lower residential densities when compared to other parts of the City which may lower the neighborhoods property values. Parks and Gatherings Due to the large size of the Canyon Lakes System several other parks and trails facilities are nearby or connected to the existing System. Lake 1 (Conquistador Lake) is located south of Berl Huffman Athletic Complex across TX-289 Loop. Identifying potential safe pedestrian and cyclist connections to Berl Huffman may increase the benefits each recreation facility can have for the City. South of Lake 1 is the Northwest Little League Lubbock fields, Cavazos Middle School, Texas Tech University, Jones AT&T Stadium, and the Overton District. These facilities are found along University Avenue which connects directly with the Canyon Lakes. The City recently completed a major sidewalk reconstruction on both sides of University Avenue from 16th Street to Baylor Street. Currently there are limited pedestrian facilities connecting to the Canyon Lakes north of Baylor Street and crossing the railroad along Clovis Road. Aztlan Park, east of Interstate 27, is connected to Pallottine Park and Guadalupe Park through the Guadalupe Strip (which is a proposed portal trail - refer to Strategy 5.2.1, page 5.35). This trail encourages the integration of multiple park spaces and increases pedestrian connectivity opportunities in this part of the city. To the east of Interstate 27, Mackenzie Park, Mae Simmons Park, and Dunbar Lake (No. 6) are not connected or directly adjacent to other City parks and are the main recreational spaces for East Lubbock residents. A notable connection to Mackenzie Park is the South Plains Fair Coliseum, Panhandle South Plains Fairgrounds, and the Moonlight Musicals Amphitheatre. The Fairgrounds is a major regional attraction and event space, hosting traveling expositions, movies, and shows. Currently there is a single sidewalk connection along East Broadway which may limit the potential utilization of shared park and event spaces during large gatherings (as depicted on Map 5.2, Existing Conditions and Constraints). 5.11 Schools There are four LISD schools within a quarter mile of the Canyon Lakes. Carmona-Harrison Elementary is a newly constructed school (2021) on the former LISD School Plant site at Cesar C. Chaves Drive and Avenue U. Carmona-Harrison is the only LISD school to directly border the Canyon Lakes, which can provide future opportunities for outdoor classroom learning. The remaining LISD schools are found along M.L.K. Jr. Boulevard near MacKenzie Park and Dunbar Lake Park; Estacado High School, Alderson Elementary School, and Ervin Elementary School. These schools are connected to nearby residential housing by way of pedestrian and cyclist facilities, but are not connected to the Canyon Lakes parks and sports facilities. Sidewalks and bicycle lanes would need to be constructed along major boulevards to connect the schools to the Canyon Lakes. There are also five private schools and academies near the Canyon Lakes. These include Tarkington School for Young Women Leaders, and Rise Academy Charter School, near MacKenzie Park; and Dunbar College Preparatory School and Priority Intervention Academy near Dunbar Lake. There are opportunities to increase connectivity for students by constructing facilities along M.L.K. Jr. Boulevard and East 26th Street directly adjacent to Dunbar Lake Park. LIM - Or..:.^ , 7'rw- N..: .: - - •z- Al: Industry The majority of land uses surrounding the Canyon Lakes is industrial and light warehousing in nature. This may be in part to Lubbock's major rail lines running northwest to southeast parallel to the Canyon Lakes, connecting Killeen, Texas to the southeast, and Albuquerque, New Mexico to the west. The lakes in the northern and central section of the Canyon Lakes are predominantly surrounded by large manufacturing and distribution companies such as Lov-Cot Warehousing, United Oil and Grease, Gaydon Wholesale Lumber, Diamond Plastics Corporation, Bowers Plastics, Standard Energy Services, and I Roberts Massengale Power Station. The southern lakes are surrounded by predominantly transportation and distribution warehousing, and agricultural land. South of Dunbar Lake is a large warehousing and agricultural hub including Farmers Cooperative Compress, (Plants One through Five), Lubbock Feeders Livestock Producer, and southern Cotton Oil Company. As described in Lubbock's Demographic Profile, on page 1.18, over 21 percent of Lubbock is employed in the natural resources, construction, maintenance, and production, transportation and materials moving industries. A notable new industrial use coming to the Canyon Lakes region in 2026 is the Leprino Foods Company. The facility will be an 850,000 square feet $870 million dollar investment for the manufacturing of mozzarella cheese and dairy products. The facility will hire over 600 employees and will have state of the art features to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower water use. The industrial, warehousing, and distribution companies surrounding the Canyon Lakes is the largest aggregate of such industries in Lubbock. While this may be '111111►. Adjacent light industrial, warehousing, manufacturing land uses visible from Boddu Holly Lake Recreation Area Source: Halff Associates desirable for the City's economy, it can cause adjacent land uses to be less desirable to live within or to visit for recreational purposes. When arriving to the Canyon Lakes, visitors must pass these types of uses to access the parks. Once inside the parks, due to elevation changes, industrial and warehouse land uses are oftentimes highly visible from recreational facilities. Figure 5.4, Canyon Lakes Adjacent Land Uses Lubbock Berl. Huffman Lake National Athletic Complex � `84 -Historic andmark a� �a Z CD Erskine St. Unive Medical i*xas i n ers' C mpu � VIIII ® ' LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, AND l OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN CD Lubbock In Business Park Client: City of Lubbock DConsultants: HaLff Associates, Inc. m 289 E Ursuline St. Data Sources, City of Lubbock. Texas: Texas Tech Univeristy: TIE] LEGEND Z 0 Lubbock City Limits Interstates, State Roads, and PrincipaLArterial Roads Collector, Arterial, and Marshall St. Local Roads D Rail lines Hodges P 5D Q Parks <<q C CID Q Water Bodies �oFsfgc Z Canyon Lakes Parks °go�q�P Residential Land Uses Ces r E. Ch ez I in C o�'O�� `q� hPr�q Canyon Rim Pak Meadowbrook Golf Course Z —• =r < G) a<i D m Commercial, Retail Land Uses Light Industrial, Warehousing, Manufacturing Land Uses Special District Land Uses Undeveloped, Argicultural Auburn St. ztl Land Uses Park D Mackenzie Park 5D r Glenna Gooda re BI d. k - Ci is Ce ter unty4"P < a r roun F froadwL St. 18th St. Ilu'L�3Tu �IIIIIIIlI.�'Y (Land uses depicted in Figure 5.4 do not represent the exact land use dedication of each parcel, but represents the general Land use type of each region surrounding the Canyon Lakes) 1/4mile 1/2 mile 3/4 mile i ve uonn 1/q (Quarter) square mile FIGURE 5.4; CANYON LAKES ADJACENT LANDUSES 5.14 June 2022 Canyon Lakes Strategic Perspectives A Community -Driven Plan for the Canyon Lakes The Plan Lubbock 2040 Comprehensive Plan was adopted by City Council on December 17, 2018. A key recommendation within the Plan's Chapter 8, Parks, Trails, and Open Space, was to create a Vision and Master Plan for the Canyon Lakes; with the purpose of consolidating planning and oversight of the system, including its parks, amenities, and other important features. On multiple occasions, the preferred landscape character and type of recreational activities were discussed during meetings of the Master Plan Advisory Committee (MPAC). There was consensus among MPAC members that the Canyon Lakes' general character should remain consistent with the landscape of the Llano Estacado; and there should be opportunities to showcase the intrinsic beauty of the subtle land forms which enframe views and vistas; as well as the landscape ecology, and the native and indigenous plants and animal life therein. Programmatic recreational improvements should not require manicured landscape enhancements (e.g., large expanses of irrigated and mowed lawn areas for organized sports -related, competitive events or pastoral passive recreational activities. Rather, the landscape should reflect and celebrate the essence and grit of the region which is West Texas. During the fall of 2021 students enrolled in Texas Tech University's Department of Landscape Architecture (TTU DOLA) participated in a semester -long regional design studio that focused on both system -wide and project area -specific recreational improvements within the Canyon Lakes, including formulating pedestrian circulation networks which connected key activity nodes throughout the system. Many of the subsequent strategies and recommendations support and build - off of the analytical and programmatic work of the TTU DOLA students. Discussions with area residents who attended the first open house, as well as with elected and appointed officials indicated that there is widespread interest in making the Canyon Lakes system a regional destination for nature -based and adventure -based recreation. The following objectives, strategies, and actions lay out a course of action to transform and restore the Canyon Lakes area back to a native Texas shortgrass prairie landscape - resembling what the Llano Estacado region looked like before Lubbock was settled - and to implement riparian enhancements to improve the ecological function of the Canyon Lakes' riverine system; and develop a program of active and passive recreational activities that will be unique to this landscape while complementing the programmatic activities that can be found within the City's constellation of parks. 5.15 Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan PAR D Vision for the Canyon Lakes The Canyon Lakes remains a place of contrasts. Within a featureless plain the Canyon Lakes provides rolling, topographic relief. In an otherwise dry and arid landscape the Canyon Lakes provides an abundance of refreshing water -based activities. In the midst of a bustling urban environment the Canyon Lakes provides a quiet place for reflection. Amidst the flat and and expanse of the Caprock, the Canyon Lakes is an oasis and wellspring for individual and community rejuvenation and fulfillment. LBK Chapter5.LubbockLakes _ 41 0 V Goal 5.0: The Canyon Lakes are a regional destination for adventure in the heart of the Llano Estacado 04 From Conquistador Lake (No.1) down to Dunbar Lake (No. 6) the Canyon Lakes system and the parks and open spaces contained therein offer Lubbock's residents and regional visitors alike, an over 13 mile long, unique and contiguous, semi -natural landscape within which to spend time enjoying a wide variety of recreational activities; from high-octane mountain biking, to canoeing and paddle boarding, to just simply and relaxing outside and having a picnic while listening to the birds. The Canyon Lakes open space system represents a significant regional amenity that can be programmed to appeal to the recreational interests of multiple audiences. As indicated from responses to the Community Needs Survey, there is a great deal of interest in adventure sports and programming, as well as family- oriented activities in natural areas. This renewed interest in adventure sports and nature -based recreation and tourism is indicative of larger, post - pandemic, outdoor recreation trends, which, according to a recent report by Research and Markets, enjoyed a value in 2019 of $658 million (USD) in 2019, and is projected to increase in value to $2.02 billion in the next decade.' 5. Nigam, R. 2019. Future of Adventure Sports Post -Pandemic. Travel Trends Today, T3 News Network. https://www.traveltrendstoday.in/news/tato/item/10287-future- of-adventure-sports-post-pandemic Belle Fourche River native grassess and stream banks at Devils Tower National Monument Source: National Parks Service Objective 5.1: Manage the Canyon Lakes as a unique environmental system which serves the passive and active recreational needs of a diverse regional constituency. Strategy 5.1.1: Restore the unprogrammed open spaces within the Canyon Lakes system using native plant species associated with a Texas shortgrass prairie ecosystem. Currently the low hills and embankments which compose the denuded landscape within the Canyon Lakes system are virtually devoid of vegetative groundcover and subsequently, have become deeply eroded due to the overwhelming presence of prairie dogs. As discussed within Strategy 5.1.2, revegetation of the Canyon Lakes landscape utilizing the vegetation that is common to the Texas shortgrass prairie is an effective way of reducing and potentially eliminating prairie dogs from the area. Initiation of a restoration project can include the initial planting of as few as four species for the site. A plan should provide for the planting of at least four perennial species from the ecological region and adapted to the site. The planting of additional species of annual and perennial species is encouraged as the site develops over time. Plant diversity in a restoration project initially will be less than in a natural prairie but should increase during the first five to 10 years. Site preparation is perhaps the most important element to be addressed in planning a native grassland or prairie restoration project. The initial success of plantings will often be dependent on steps taken to reduce weed competition, provide a suitable seedbed, and promote growth of seedlings. Competition by cool -season grasses and weeds will make initial establishment of native grasses difficult and will require more site management during the beginning years of the project. Seed sources should be from within 300 miles of the site or nearer to assure adaptability and improve success of initial establishment. Native grass seed should be planted in Texas between January and April. Dry conditions during this period may substantially influence germination and growth of grass seedlings. Annual forb species should not be introduced on the site until planted grass species become established. Establishment of grasses may require periodic mowing, at least initially, and will make establishment of annual forbs difficult. Annual forb diversity will increase over time. Annual forbs should not be planted during the first two years of the project. A listing of seed sources for native grasses and forbs is also available from the National Wildflower Research Center in Austin or from Native American Seed (https://www.seedsource. com/). Preferred planting dates for perennial forb seed is during the fall, particularly the October -November period. Although most perennial forb species will not germinate until the spring, it is necessary that they undergo the chilling and softening process in the soil. Fertilization is optional during the initial planting as it may serve to promote the growth of undesirable forbs and annual grasses and slow establishment of the desired species planted. Fertilization rates can be determined by soil analysis tests or based on recommendations from the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) or Texas Agricultural Extension Service. Mowing will be necessary during the first two years. Restoration sites should be mowed to a height of no less than four inches to reduce competition from annual weeds and undesirable grasses. It will also serve to reduce moisture loss from the soil. It may take two to three years growing time for native grasses to dominate the site vegetatively. Controlled burning is also a tool that can be used for site management. No burning should be conducted during the first three years after grasses have been planted. After that time, if the site has developed sufficiently and thatch, or a layer of dead organic matter on soil, has become excessive then burning on a three- to four-year rotation can be initiated. Fire is a natural event for grasslands and prairies, which benefit from its occurrence. Burning will stimulate growth of dormant forb seed, promote growth of above ground vegetation, improve soil fertility, and help control the invasion of undesirable woody plant species found in the area. Fire releases nutrients back into the soil and reduces shading of new grass and forb seedlings. Existing grasses and riparian vegetation at Clapp Park Source: TravelAroundPlaces 5.19 Lark Bunting �e. Tree Cholla Largemouth Bass Western Wheatgrass Ogg Black -Tailed Prairie Dog Pricklypear Cactus r-rongnc, li �aY Scarlet Globemallow N R.. •i n ►vim r-� Burrowing Owl yy WX AL �S Eastern Gamagrass Plains Hog -Nose Snake Prairie Zinnia Sharp -Tailed Grouse Sumac Swift Fox Black -Footed Ferret Yucca Native Fauna Wildlife associated with shortgrass prairie include the American kestrel, blue -winged teal, lark bunting, mallard, mourning dove, northern harrier, scaled quail, sharp -tailed grouse, black -tailed prairie dog, coyote, fox, pronghorn, Rocky Mountain mule deer, blackfooted ferret, plains hog - nosed snake, bluegill, and the largemouth bass. Though this is representative of the entire range of the shortgrass prairie only a few of these animals will be found in Lubbock. Native Flora Plant species associated with shortgrass prairie include grasses, herbaceous plants, and trees. Grasses include the Big Bluestem, Eastern Gamagrass, Sand Lovegrass, Prairie Wildrye, Buff alograss, Prairie Threeawn, Indiangrass, Green Spangletop, Western Wheatgrass, and Sand Dropseed. Common tree's and shrubs found in short grass prairies include, the Yucca, Scarlet Globemallow, Plains Blackfoot, Skunkbrush, Sagebush, Sumacs, Pricklypear Cactus, Prairie Zinnia, Slimflower Scurfpea, and Tree Cholla. Invasive Species According to the Texas Invasive Species Institute there are 12 major invasive terrestrial species in the High Plains ecoregion (Lubbock and the western ). These include Siberian Elm, Salt Cedar, King Ranch Bluestem, Puncturevine, Yellow Sweet Clover, Purple Loosestrife, Russian Olive, Field Bindweed, Cheat Grass, Russian Thistle, Spotted Knapweed, and Giant Reed. Many of these species are grasses and small shrubs which choke and overgrow native plants, interrupt natural flood patterns of streams, outcompete native plants for water, and create dryer conditions which increases extreme wildfire risks. Grasses such as Cheat Grass and King Ranch Bluestem are large, fast-growing grasses that overwhelm native grasses; and if eaten, can damage the mouths and stomachs of animals and livestock. Salt Cedar is a shrub that outcompetes native plants by absorbing more water than surrounding grasses. Salt Cedar is one of many species that has become invasive throughout the south and southwest due to a lowering water table and the plant's ability to draw water from deeper underground. Vining herbs such as Field Bindweed and Puncture Vine are fast reproducing and seeding ground cover plants, the roots systems of which are horizontal to the ground and close to the surface. Plants with these types of root systems starve out other nearby plants of water which may have deeper root systems. They also do not allow for the natural propagation of new plants in areas with already established dense vines and can cause damage to animals due to their toxicity and spikes. Cattails have become particularly problematic within the Canyon Lakes system and impede water flow within the streams between the lakes and reduce lake volume and capacity to store additional water. 5.20 Yucca Native Fauna Wildlife associated with shortgrass prairie include the American kestrel, blue -winged teal, lark bunting, mallard, mourning dove, northern harrier, scaled quail, sharp -tailed grouse, black -tailed prairie dog, coyote, fox, pronghorn, Rocky Mountain mule deer, blackfooted ferret, plains hog - nosed snake, bluegill, and the largemouth bass. Though this is representative of the entire range of the shortgrass prairie only a few of these animals will be found in Lubbock. Native Flora Plant species associated with shortgrass prairie include grasses, herbaceous plants, and trees. Grasses include the Big Bluestem, Eastern Gamagrass, Sand Lovegrass, Prairie Wildrye, Buff alograss, Prairie Threeawn, Indiangrass, Green Spangletop, Western Wheatgrass, and Sand Dropseed. Common tree's and shrubs found in short grass prairies include, the Yucca, Scarlet Globemallow, Plains Blackfoot, Skunkbrush, Sagebush, Sumacs, Pricklypear Cactus, Prairie Zinnia, Slimflower Scurfpea, and Tree Cholla. Invasive Species According to the Texas Invasive Species Institute there are 12 major invasive terrestrial species in the High Plains ecoregion (Lubbock and the western ). These include Siberian Elm, Salt Cedar, King Ranch Bluestem, Puncturevine, Yellow Sweet Clover, Purple Loosestrife, Russian Olive, Field Bindweed, Cheat Grass, Russian Thistle, Spotted Knapweed, and Giant Reed. Many of these species are grasses and small shrubs which choke and overgrow native plants, interrupt natural flood patterns of streams, outcompete native plants for water, and create dryer conditions which increases extreme wildfire risks. Grasses such as Cheat Grass and King Ranch Bluestem are large, fast-growing grasses that overwhelm native grasses; and if eaten, can damage the mouths and stomachs of animals and livestock. Salt Cedar is a shrub that outcompetes native plants by absorbing more water than surrounding grasses. Salt Cedar is one of many species that has become invasive throughout the south and southwest due to a lowering water table and the plant's ability to draw water from deeper underground. Vining herbs such as Field Bindweed and Puncture Vine are fast reproducing and seeding ground cover plants, the roots systems of which are horizontal to the ground and close to the surface. Plants with these types of root systems starve out other nearby plants of water which may have deeper root systems. They also do not allow for the natural propagation of new plants in areas with already established dense vines and can cause damage to animals due to their toxicity and spikes. Cattails have become particularly problematic within the Canyon Lakes system and impede water flow within the streams between the lakes and reduce lake volume and capacity to store additional water. 5.20 As depicted in Map, 5.3, Landscape, Circulation, and Recreational Improvements in the Canyon Lakes, approximately 212 acres within the Canyon Lakes system is recommended to be restored to approximate a Texas shortgrass prairie ecosystem. Initiatives and Actions: 1. For more information on obtaining native Texas shortgrass prairie seed stock, contact Native American Seed, Junction, Texas. Tel. No.:1-800 728- 4043; Email: info@seedsource.com 2. As described in Strategy 5.4.1, and depicted in Figure 5.5, Prairie Hiking Trails, develop a series of unimproved hiking trails through the larger expanses of Texas shortgrass prairie 3. Establish a nursery on City -owned land to propagate needed Texas shortgrass prairie plant material. Figure 5.5, Prairie Hiking Trails Sidebar Five Steps to Successful Prairie Establishment Native prairie grasses and flowers create habitats for birds, butterflies, and other beneficial native wildlife. Deep-rooted prairie plants encourage infiltration of rainwater into the soil, helping reduce stormwater runoff and flooding. Because native prairie flowers and grasses are almost exclusively perennials, they return to bloom year after year, creating a self-sustaining and beautiful landscape for years to come. There are five critical steps that must be followed to ensure success with native prairie landscaping: Rita Blanca National Grasslands, Dalhart, TX Source: Tri-State Wildlife 1. Site Selection Sunny, open, and well -ventilated areas are best for prairie plants as they require at least a half day of full sun. Areas with heavy weed growth should be avoided, if possible. This is especially true if a site has well -established perennial noxious weeds. 2. Plant Selection A prairie meadow is very different from a garden. In a meadow the plants are essentially on their own. It is important to plant grasses and flowers that match the soil and growing conditions. 3. Site Preparation All weeds and existing vegetation must be killed prior to seeding to ensure invasive plant species do not re -colonize the planting area. 4. Planting Time and Method Prairie seeds can be successfully planted during the following times: Spring thaw through June 30th; September 1st through soil freeze-up ("Dormant Seeding"). Planting during July and August is generally not recommended, as drought is common during these months. Providing irrigation or supplemental water can greatly increase the odds of success in a restoration project and aid the survivability of seedlings. 5. Post -Planting Management Prairies are low maintenance, not "No Maintenance". In the first two years, annual and biennial weeds will grow much faster than the slow -growing native plants. By the third year, the wildflowers and grasses should begin to win out over the weeds. 5.21 Ozona Visitor Center Nature Area,100 miles south of San Angelo, enjoys over 12,000 annual visitors to see the areas native grasses, wildlife, gardens, water conservation efforts, and pervious interpretive trails. Source: Texan By Nature Auburn Hills Trail in Columbia, Missouri, features'no-mow zones'that decrease maintenance costs and provide habitat for native species. Source: City of Columbia Missouri The Daphne Prairie is 922 acres of convervation land located in Franklin County, Texas, at the Sulpher River Basin. The prairie restoration and conservation effort began in 2013 with the Lone Star Land Steward Award. Source: Native Parairie Association of Texas The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, owned by the City of Dallas, has over five greenhouses to grow plants for City parks. Other examples of City or government entity owned greenhouses include the Mercer Botanic Gardens Greenhouse owned by Harris County Presinct 4 and Garland, Texas. Source: Dallas Morning News Chanter 5. Lubbock Lak Strategy 5.1.2: Develop an effective program through which to manage invasive species, including the Black -Tailed Prairie Dog. Prairie dogs are native to short -grass prairies in western North America. In Texas, they may be found in western portions of the state and in the Panhandle. The colonies they form, called prairie dog towns, are comprised of multiple small groups of animals that live inside burrows which can range between three to 14 feet deep and can extend for more than 100 feet. Huge prairie dog towns, some that covered 25,000 square miles and supported a population of approximately 400 million prairie dogs, were once reported in Texas. Although prairie dogs are still common locally, today less than one percent of the prairie dog population and habitat remain. Prairie dogs are relatively safe and fear humans, but flea and plague outbreaks among colonies of prairie dogs is common and may raise concern if a person or pet comes in contact. The City of Lubbock's Parks and Recreation Department (LPARD) has a long and storied history with prairie dogs. The prairie dogs have caused untold damage to parks by prairie dogs digging burrows, resulting in park maintenance teams to spend hours managing prairie dog populations and filling -in burrows. These holes are typically six inches to a foot in diameter and are topped by a circular mound of dirt intended to reduce borrow flooding, increase airflow, and create a safe elevation for spotting predators. This means that for each prairie dog hole there is typically at least four square -feet of land unavailable for recreation. This is the largest problem that prairie dogs have caused in Lubbock parks. A single colony will typically have 30-50 burrow entrances per acre. If a soccer field, at an average 1.5 to 1.9 acres in area, becomes the home of a colony, this means there will be 50 to 100 holes and mounds on just one field. Spread across multiple acres of sports fields or open space, entire parks and facilities may become unusable. (Pictured Below) Prairie dog burrows at Mae Simmons Community Center Source: Halff Associates Despite the damage they cause to parkland, prairie dogs do play an important role in the prairie ecosystem. They serve as a food source for many predators and leave vacant burrows which are inhabited by the Burrowing Owl, the Black -Footed Ferret, the Texas horned lizard, rabbits, and hares. The burrowing activity of prairie dogs also provides a great ecological benefit by decreasing soil compaction, aerating the soil, increasing water absorption, and promoting soil formation. Prairie dogs avoid areas with heavy brush or tall grass due to the reduced visibility these habitats impose. These visual barriers reduce their ability to see predators and create undesirable burrowing conditions. The LPARD could discourage prairie dogs from the park system by restoring some parkland back to natural prairie and adding other plantings to reduce distances between prairie dogs' visible sightlines (see reference to shortgrass prairie restoration on page 5.19). Practices to manage prairie dog populations, limit their distribution, or mitigate the damage they cause have not been extensively studied in the literature. Source: National Parks Service, Kim Acker 5.23 r �- Since their geographic range is so vast, from Colorado down through Texas, there is not a one -size -fits -all approach to managing populations. For this reason, this study suggests the LPARD partner with Texas Tech University's Department of Natural Resources Management to do a comprehensive study on best practices regarding prairie dog population management in Lubbock. The results of this study should provide guidance on how the LPARD can limit or mitigate the damage done by the prairie dogs while preserving and enhancing the natural ecosystem of the shortgrass prairie. Initiatives and Actions: Implement the prairie restoration program, described in Strategy 5.1.1. Consider partnering with Texas Tech University's Department of Natural Resources Management to conduct a comprehensive study on best practices regarding prairie dog population management in the Lubbock metropolitan area. The results of this study should provide guidance on how the LPARD can limit or mitigate the damage done by the prairie dogs while preserving the natural ecosystem of the shortgrass prairie. The recommended Research team should include: Rusty Fuller (LPARD, Park Maintenance Supervisor) Conway Warren (TTU, Chair of Department of Natural Resources Management & Bricker Endowed Chair in Wildlife Management) Robert Bradley (TTU, Director of the Natural Sciences Research Laboratory) Duane Lucia (US Fish and Wildlife Service) 3. Reintroduce the Black -footed Ferret into the Canyon Lakes landscape. 4. Develop a public information campaign geared toward characterizing the damage and destruction ...... ....tea.= �r� attributable to prairie dogs, particularly to parks, athletic fields, and public facilities. 5. After the removal of the large beds of cattails, which clog much of the central portion of the Canyon Lakes system, as proposed within Strategy 5.1.4, develop and implement a program for managing the growth and spread of cattails and other invasive species of vegetation within the system. Strategy 5.1.3: Screen views of adjacent industrial land uses using indigenous evergreen vegetation. Part of the rationale behind restoring the Texas shortgrass prairie ecosystem within the Canyon Lakes is to create a unique and authentic environment that depicts a historic landscape character; and upon entering into this landscape, the participant is immediately removed from the surrounding urban/ industrial environment. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Conduct a visual resource inventory and assessment of the views from within the Canyon Lakes system looking outward from Cesar E. Chavez Drive, key activity nodes, and other gathering places; and develop a scoring system through which to evaluate which views detract from the landscape scenery, and warrant screening; and which views might be enhanced through further enframement, utilizing plant material. 2. To enhance the feeling of being within this unique landscape, utilize evergreen plant communities that are native, indigenous, and/or compatible with living in the Llano Estacado, and strategically locate groves of plantings to screen industrial structures and other infrastructure which detracts from the intended natural character of Canyon Lakes system. After Mw Source: HalffAssociates 5.24 Strategy 5.1.4: Implement Canyon Lakes structural (volume and conveyance) improvements. Over the next several years, through the expenditure of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and other sources of funding, the Canyon Lakes system will be undergoing significant drainage and detention improvements, including lake dredging and deepening, clearing and removal of large stands of cattails, and widening of the streams (drainageways) that connect the various lakes. These improvements will increase recreational access to and connectivity between the various lakes which compose the system. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Develop a phased approach to recreational improvements within the Canyon Lakes system that build -off of the structural improvements to the lakes and drainageways, as well as the riparian enhancements proposed within Strategy 5.1.5, and the green finger improvements proposed in Strategy 5.1.6. 2. In their current state, most of the streams and drainageways that link the various lakes are choked with cattails and fallen vegetative debris. Clear, widen, and deepen the drainageways between lakes in order to improve habitat value and navigability. The optimum width of an interconnecting stream should be approximately 20 ft wide. This will enable a canoe to turn around midstream. A6 Strategy 5.1.5: Improve the riparian vegetation that stabilize portions of the lakes' shorelines and the streams between the lakes. As the lakes are dredged and the drainageways are cleared of cattails and widened, stabilize the embankments utilizing bioengineering techniques and best practices. Stream and river embankment stabilization reduces harmful effects of erosion and sedimentation and preserves water quality. Employing bio-engineering techniques enhances riparian habitat and avoids costly bulkheading and embankment cladding while preserving natural riparian character and function. Bioengineering techniques help to reduce scour caused by wind - driven wave activity by stabilizing sediment deposition along the shoreline. Bio-engineering includes planting vegetation that forms dense mats of flexible stems, such as willow (Salix nigra) to protect or rehabilitate eroded stream banks. Stream bank protection using vegetation is probably the most commonly used practice, particularly in small tributaries. Structural practices, both direct and indirect, protect or rehabilitate eroded stream banks and are usually implemented in combination to provide stability to the stream system. Vegetative methods for embankment stabilization should be used in lieu of structural methods because vegetation is relatively easy to establish and maintain, is visually attractive, and is the only streambank stabilization method that can repair itself when damaged. Other advantages to using vegetative erosion control over structural control include increased pollutant attenuation and nutrient uptake capacity, and increased habitat for fish and wildlife. The following bio-engineering techniques should be employed along lake shorelines and drainageways to restore damaged habitat and protect shoreline and streambank erosion: • Live Staking involves the insertion and tamping of live, rootable vegetative cuttings into the ground. • Live Fascines are long bundles of branch cuttings bound together into sausage -like structures. When cut from appropriate species and properly installed, they will root and immediately begin to stabilize slopes. • Brush Layering consists of placing live branch cuttings in small benches excavated into the slope. The portions of the brush that protrude from the slope face assist in retarding runoff and reducing surface erosion. • Brush Mattressing involves digging a slight depression on the bank and creating a mat or mattress from woven wire or single strands of wire and live, freshly cut branches from sprouting trees or shrubs. • Branch Packing consists of alternating layers of live branch cuttings and compacted backf ill to repair small localized slumps and holes in slopes. • Joint Planting involves planting live cuttings of rootable plant material into soil between the joints or open spaces in rocks that have previously been placed on a slope. • Live Cribwalls consist of a hollow, box -like interlocking arrangement of untreated log or timber members. The structure is filled with suitable backfill material and layers of live branch cuttings, which root inside the crib structure and extend into the slope. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Ensure that enough medium (i.e., river birch) to large (cottonwood) trees are planted within the riparian zone of drainageways to keep at least 60 percent of the water surface shaded. This will reduce the ambient water temperature and enable more wildlife species to live there. The Watonga Prairie along the Bayou Greenway in Houston, Texas, replaces a previously created meadow with more natural prairies to provide habitat for pollinators, butterflies, and bees. Source: Texan By Nature Slab Cabin Run is a stream used by migrating trout that was dredged due to narrow and shallow conditions due to erosion caused by a lack of vegetative buffers. Source: Golf Course Superintendents Association of America _ 7 Mobsf E=''it }IB Strategy 5.1.6: Improve the ecological function of stormwater outfalls into the Canyon Lakes system. By regrading drainage ditches and stormwater outfalls to emulate "pool -riffle -run" fluvial geomorphological patterns found in ecologically functioning streams, stormwater drainage infrastructure can be modified into "green fingers" and provide an important ecological function as "nurseries" for riparian and aquatic insect, fish, and wildlife species within the Canyon Lakes. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Utilizing Map 5.2, Existing Conditions and Constriants, evaluate which outfalls and drainage ditches might be regraded to enhance ecological function, as described above. 2. Work with the Leprino Foods Company to ensure that wastewater effluent discharged into Dunbar Lake (No. 6) is done so by way of a system that is conducive to enhancing the ecological functions of the Lakes system. A segment of the Medina River, near Southwest Elementary School in San Antonio, Texas, is restored to mimic natural hydrological functions that once existed along this stretch of the river. Source: San Antonio River Authority • 5.27 A drainage outfaII at the Upper Watts Branch Forest Preserve has been redesigned from a straight continuous sloped channel, which caused erosion and flooding issues, to a'pool, riffle, run' system where water can be slowed, filtered, and more easily absorbed as ground water. Source: Hazen and Sawyer A church along the Whitehall creek in the Chesapeake Bay area created a series of step pools to reduce flood damage and stream bank erosion. Source!Chesapeake Bay Program Objective 5.2: Improve pedestrian access to and circulation within the Canyon Lakes. Existing Conditions: Access Access refers to the ability and ease for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists to reach the Canyon Lakes system. There are several constraints which limit pedestrian access to the Canyon Lakes system and connectivity to internal places and facilities. The Canyon Lakes system is crossed by several highways and arterial throughfares in Lubbock which provide connections to activity hubs such as Downtown, Texas Tech University, and various entertainment nodes. Vehicular access, due to Lubbock's gridded street pattern and ring road, creates favorable conditions for driving to the Canyon Lakes. Every park in the Canyon Lakes system has at least one parking lot, except for Llano Estacado Lake and Mackenzie Park South along the Windmill Museum, which do have existing recreational facilities. The largest amount of parking is at Mackenzie Park which hosts the most sports and recreational facilities and community events. The least amount of parking is at Aztlan Park, although visitors to the park often park along the perimeter residential streets. Refer to Table G.1, Parking Facilities, in Appendix G, and Map 5.2, Existing Conditions and Constraints, for a detailed overview of parking conditions at the Canyon Lakes. Large expanses of industrial land uses separate residential areas from the Canyon Lakes, the negotiation of which discourages pedestrian access to nearby parks and open spaces. The thoroughfares leading to the Canyon Lakes through the industrial areas lack adequate pedestrian infrastructure and limit the number of safe pedestrian crossings and access points. Adjacent sidewalks and bicycle lanes are usually found south of Clovis Road and west of Avenue A, leaving a one -quarter to one-half mile gap in infrastructure leading to the Canyon Lakes. Railroad crossings are a major limitation to safe access to the Canyon Lakes and the parks therein. Railroad crossing constraints, due to no existing at -grade crossings and major throughfares, exist at the following locations (refer to Map 5.2, Existing Conditions and Constraints): • Landmark Lane, North Gary Avenue, University Avenue, and Avenue U at Clovis Street • Cesar E. Chavez Drive east of Avenue R • North spur crossings at Avenue U, Avenue T, Avenue S, and Erskine Road • Crossings of Avenue P and 3rd Street near Pallottine Park • Crossings of Cesar E. Chavez Drive / Avenue K and 1st Street • Crossings at North Interstate 27 Frontage Road and South Interstate 27 Frontage Road • Residential crossing at North Ash Avenue Pedestrian concrete platform crossing a rail line Source: Halff Associates Existing Conditions: Circulation Berl Huffman Sports Complex Lake 1 (Conquistador Lake) is located between Clovis Road, North University Avenue, and TX-289 Loop. On the north side of TX-289 is the headwaters of Lake 1 and the Berl Huffman Athletic Complex. Currently any pedestrian or cyclist looking to access Berl Huffman from Lake 1 has to use frontage roads and interstate underpasses with no existing sidewalks to access the Athletic Complex. The Berl Huffman area is a sports tournament area which draws in many outside visitors. Creating safe connections to nearby facilities such as the Buddy Holly Recreation Area and the Lubbock Lake National Historic Area can bolster Lubbock's tourism and City image. To increase connectivity the frontage roads on both sides of TX-289 Loop should have safe pedestrian and cyclist facilities, including along Landmark Drive / Lane. Conquistador Lake (No. 1) and Llano Estacado Lake (No. 2) Circulation refers to the ability and ease for park visitors to access internal parks and facilities from within the Canyon Lakes system. The Canyon Lakes currently has 7.27 miles (38,376 feet) of internal park trails and 18.22 miles (96,236 feet) of mountain bike trails. The majority (58 percent) of park trails surround and provide access to Lakes 1 and 2 (Buddy Holly Recreation Area, and Hodges Park). Trails along Lakes 1 and 2 trails are well connected to parking lots and recreational facilities (with the exception of the Harvard Street parking lot north of the diamond fields, which is not connected to recreational facilities by way of trails or sidewalks); although they are bisected by North University Avenue, which requires trail users to cross the at grade throughfare either north or south of the lakes. Currently, North University Avenue has six travel lanes and one left turn lane. The north crossing at Cesar E. Chavez Drive lacks pedestrian crossing infrastructure (i.e., crossing signage, signalization, crosswalk markings, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible ramps, or a pedestrian safety island / median). The south crossing of North University Avenue does not have pedestrian crossing signage, signal lighting, or crosswalk markings, but does have ADA accessible ramps and a small pedestrian island which may not be a suitable width for pedestrian comfort and safety. As a vehicle travels either north or south towards the pedestrian crossings, elevation begins to slope downward by at least 30 feet, limiting vehicle sight lines to potential pedestrians. Travel speeds along North University Avenue are currently 50 miles per hour (mph). This also means that if a pedestrian is crossing, they may not have enough time to see oncoming vehicles due to fast travel speeds and limited sightline distance due to the elevation change. Although there is existing bicycle yield signage 400 feet from the crossings, warning vehicles of potential cyclists, there is not signage or road markings warning vehicles of pedestrian crossings or intersections. Trails at Lakes 1 and 2 dead-end, heading east, at Avenue U. There are no existing pedestrian facilities on Avenue U, which limits potential nearby residents from accessing the trails and trail users from continuing southeast towards Comancheria Lake (No. 3) and Canyon Rim Park. Comancheria Lake (No. 3) The Cesar E. Chavez Bridge which crosses Avenue Q has sidewalks on both sides of the bridge; the northern sidewalk connects to an existing trail at Canyon Rim Park. The southern end of the trail at Canyon Rim Park then crosses Avenue K to access the Guadalupe Strip trail. There is a small section of roadway that lacks pedestrian facilities south of the railroad. As identified in Tables H.1 and H.2, Portal Trails Types A and B, Appendix H, a safe at grade pedestrian crossing should be constructed and missing gaps in pedestrian facilities should be constructed along Avenue K and 1st Street to provide a connection to the Aztlan Park Trail. Existing trails, pavilions, and fishing docks at Conquistador Lake and Comancheria Lake. Source: Halff Associates 5.29 Aztlan Park The Aztlan Park trail runs through the center of the park. The internal park road (Cesar E. Chavez Drive) does not have parallel pedestrian facilities and there is no existing pedestrian connection to the Park's tennis and volleyball courts, the Early Learning Center of Lubbock, and residential areas. Pedestrian connectivity to Aztlan Park is extremely constrained due to Interstate 27, railroad lines, and Buddy Holly Avenue. The existing trail crossing under Interstate 27, which connects Aztlan Park with Mackenzie Park is the only pedestrian crossing north of East Broadway and is the closest connection to Downtown and Mackenzie Park. An additional pedestrian facility should be constructed along the Buddy Holly Avenue/ Municipal Drive to provide a direct link from Downtown Lubbock to Mackenzie Park North (north of Parkway Drive) (refer to Table H.4 Secondary Trails, Appendix H). The Aztlan Park trail ends along Cesar E. Chavez Drive just before Mackenzie Park. i Mackenzie Park There are currently no existing pedestrian facilities at Mackenzie Park North. Existing facilities in Mackenzie Park (i.e., diamond fields, playgrounds, parking lots, and dog park) are not connected to any trails or sidewalks; which means that pedestrians will either have to walk on the street or in the grass. There are five -foot -wide sidewalks on both sides of the roadway at the Cesar E. Chavez Drive underpass at US 82 / Parkway Drive, which connects Mackenzie Park North and Mackenzie Park South. Mackenzie Park South (south of Parkway Drive) does not have pedestrian or cyclist facilities along Cesar E. Chavez Drive/ Mackenzie Park Road. Pedestrian facilities connect parking lots to existing playgrounds, restroom facilities, and disc gold courses. A sidewalk exists along the south side of Mackenzie Park along East Broadway which connects Moonlight Musicals Amphitheatre and the Panhandle South Plains Fairgrounds. Providing additional connections or improved pedestrian facilities to these attractions can expand event capacity and opportunities (referto Table H.4, Secondary Trails, Appendix H). There are currently no pedestrian facilities along Canyon Lakes Drive, between East Broadway and East 19th Street / Idalou Road to connect to the American Windmill Museum or park. Safe at -grade crossings may need to be constructed to allow for safe pedestrian and cyclist crossing of these major divided -lane throughfares. Mae Simmons Park Internal park trails connect the parking lots of existing park pavilions, restrooms, playgrounds, and the Community Center. There are currently no sidewalks along Canyon Lakes Drive, on the west side of M.L.K. Jr. Boulevard to connect to Mae Simmons Pool. Nor is there a trail which connects to the existing pedestrian bridge. Mae Simmons Pool is also not properly connected to sidewalks along East 24th Street. 5.30 Dunbar Lake Dunbar Lake Park does not have any pedestrian and cyclist facilities along Canyon Lakes Drive. A few trails connect the street to pavilions off of Canyon Lakes Drive, but these do not contribute to travel or connectivity. The east side of M.L.K. Jr. Boulevard has disconnected segment of sidewalks that connect to the Dunbar -Manhattan Heights Neighborhood and Ervin Elementary School. The two crossings of M.L.K. Jr. Boulevard, at Canyon Lakes Drive, do not have any pedestrian facilities or safety -related infrastructure. The wide throughfare and travel speed of 40 miles per hour may cause unsafe conditions for pedestrians and cyclists similar to the crossings at North University Avenue and Hodges Park. Connections should also be considered on the south end of the Canyon Lakes at Dunbar Lake. As previously mentioned, there are over 18 miles of mountain bike trails in the Canyon Lakes on the north side of Dunbar Lake and to southeast past the Lake 5 Dam and under the Santa Fe Railroad Bridge. There are no existing pedestrian trails or roadways which go past the Dunbar Lake Dam. Current plans exist to create a seventh lake between TX-289 Loop and Buffalo Springs Lake along the North Fork of the Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos River. During the development and construction of proposed Lake 7 opportunities exist to connect Dunbar Lake (No. 6) to Buffalo Springs. Utilizing the alignments of existing mountain bike trails and service roads, trails should be constructed to connect to Lake 6 to proposed Lake 7 by crossing under Tx-289 Loop. There should be clear and safe connections from Lake 6 to Buffalo Springs Lake. Buffalo Springs Lake is a very popular nature -based tourism and sporting area; and has the potential to catalyze similar programming at Dunbar Lake (No. 6) and beyond. Conclusion The existing internal network of trails in the Canyon Lakes system do not adequately connect residents to the parks or park facilities to each other. Internal connectivity is greatest along Conquistador Lake (No. 1) and Llano Estacado Lake (No. 2); but limited from Comancheria Lake (No. 3) to Dunbar Lake (No. 6), to short stretches of sidewalk that connect parking lots to playgrounds or other facilities; which ultimately do not improve overall internal connectivity for cyclists, joggers, or hikers. Trails and sidewalks should be constructed to connect existing internal park trails, recreational facilities, and existing access drives. Atypical view of the landscape between Canyon Lakes Drive and Dunbar Lake. Source: Halff Associates Atypical view of Canyon Lakes Drive and Cesar E. Chavez Dr. at Mae Simmons Park depicting a lack of sidewalks, bicycle lane markings, signage, and pedestrian facilities. Source: Halff Associates The intersection of Canyon Lakes Dr. and M.L.K. Jr. Blvd. at Dunbar Lake depicts the typical crossing conditions at Canyon Lakes parks. Existing crossings do not have signage, crosswalk markings, signals, or pedestrian medians, all while vehicles traverse a five lane roadway at 40 miles per hour. Source: Halff Associates 5.31 Existing Conditions and Constraints Map Legend Descriptions Existing Park Trails Park trails in the Canyon Lakes are currently 5-6 feet wide facilities connecting parking locations to park facilities, primarily along Lakes 1 through 3. Narrow Waterway - Clearing and Widening Required Portions of existing streams between lakes that are choked with vegetation and/or may currently be too narrow to navigate. Existing Boat Launch ADA compliant watercraft put -in and take-out facilities for launching and portaging. Existing Parking Lot Existing paved and striped parking lots of varying sizes in proximity to parks and facilities. Existing Rail Crossing Rail line crossings are found throughout the Canyon Lakes, and poses issues with ADA compliance and safe pedestrian crossings Existing Choke -Points eo e7 287 Existing choke -points are caused by large thoroughfares, such as interstates, with minimal crossing points, mainly at major intersections. Source: Int state -Guide �"111. &W11 Existing Riparian Vegetation Existing vegetation growing along streambanks and lake shorelines prefers moist conditions. Source: Halff Associates Existing Recreational Field / Equipment Locations of diamond ball fields, playgrounds, disc golf facilities, and ball courts. Existing Boat Ramp Locations where visitors and maintenance staff can reverse a vehicle with a trailered boat directly into the water. Existing Dam Existing dams are a major barrier to waterway navigation as boats cannot cross over the dams, but must go around them to continue along the Canyon Lakes. Existing Low Water Culverts Existing impassible culverts such as low water bridges and golf cart bridges pose challenges to watercraft navigation as they cannot be negotiated. Major Intersection Major intersections without push-button signals, crosswalks, and protected medians pose connectivity and safety issues when accessing the Canyon Lakes. 5.32 \�40,' MA , , , ` ` , ' ■ / L ` ` / ® , ' �Cp % , /' C P , , 1 X- G , P Conquistador T �aCsra�\CJ ` `` '' • ake L ` % CO / S� ■ Buddy Holly Recreation ■ p Area p • ` ` ` ' Op d / p • p • v P % C5 / OP Q 1 n i 2 Llano Estacado O \J �. j Canyon Rim a P ake Comancheria �:} • Park ■ P Lake �� • O I P C Hodges ® 1 p �L Park p aleti 1 Aztlan Park P c< — _ Northwest — � ClovisRd.League Little Lea 1` 1 _ — _ / 1 ♦ L � �t NY, e 5.33 �\ GoodaG�e / a LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN CANYON LAKES MASTER PLAN Client: City of Lubbock Consultants, HalffAssociates, Inc. /\\ Data Sources. City of Lubbock, Texas, Texas Tech Univeristy, F AacKenzie Park P MacKenzie DogP Run P Dog Park w ® i-W MacKenzie Disc Golf �•� Course P Mac�Klenzie P ParLake `` P L 00 4 I Mae P Simmons Park C Dunbar Historical\ Lake • P 45 Dun Historical Lake Park \ LEGEND Lubbock City Limits / Interstates and State Roads Major and Minor Arterial Roads Local Roads — Rail Line Corridors Parks Canyon Lakes Parks Water Bodies Canyon Lakes Flow Line Existing Lake Trails Existing Mountain Bike Trails Connectivity Contraints Existing Sidewalks No Existing Sidewalk H Major Highway Under/Overpass Railroad Crossing Major Intersection or Crossing Blueway Contraints Impassable Golf Cart Bridge eImpassable Culvert ODam Aquatic Vegetation ©Narrow Waterway Stormwater Outfalls Existing Facilities ® Restroom Major Pedestrian Bridge Recreational Feild / equipment Pavillion / Gathering Space P Parking Location Fishing Pier Canoe Launch Boat Ramp 1/4mlle 1/2 mile 3/4 mile i/q (ouarterl square mile MAP 5.2: EXISTING CONDITONS AND CONSTRAINTS Septmeber 2022 ",LhaDter5. Lubbock Lakes Strategy 5.2.1: Improve pedestrian access and connectivity to the Canyon Lakes by way of enhanced active transportation facilities (Portal Trails). Active transportation facilities, termed, "portal trails," are proposed for improving access and connectivity between the Canyon Lakes and external points of origin, including Downtown Lubbock, Texas Tech University, the Panhandle South Plains Fairgrounds, and adjacent neighborhoods. Two types of portal trails are recommended, based on existing conditions. The first type (Type A) would be a shared -use path, which is an eight- to 10-foot wide concrete facility adjacent to a thoroughfare, but separated by a change in elevation (typically curb height). An example of this type would be the proposed facility running along the west side of N. University Avenue, connecting Texas Tech University to Hodges Park and the Canyon Lakes. The second type of portal trail (Type B) would be a five- to six-foot wide concrete sidewalk that would connect neighborhoods to secondary trails, such as the sidewalk running along the Aztlan Park Link to Guadalupe Park. Portal Trail Type A: Connections on Major Thoroughfares Downtown Lubbock, Texas Tech Campus, and the North and South Overton Neighborhoods are the heart of historic Lubbock. These neighborhoods in recent years have seen a resurgence in housing development, retail and businesses, and entertainment opportunities. Many City events and gatherings occur at locations such as Jones AT&T Stadium, The Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts, Memorial Civic Center, The Depot District, Panhandle South Plains Fairgrounds, American Windmill Museum, and FiberMax Centerfor Discovery. These tourist and community nodes are all within a one-half mile distance to the Canyon Lakes. The major throughfares that bisect the Canyon Lakes' parks are the same throughfares that bisect these central neighborhoods, allowing for direct and quick connections. Example of a heierarchy of pirmary and secondary trails at Memorial Park in Houston, Texas. Source: Halff Associates Currently, many streets north of U.S. 82 / Marsha Sharp Freeway have missing gaps of sidewalks, making it more difficult to walk to parks such as Aztlan and Canyon Rim Park. The character of the area, which is mostly light industrial, warehousing, and distribution, with many parking lots and vacant parcels, may not provide a comfortable walk for residents or visitors. The addition of wayfinding signage, district maps, and sidewalk improvements can help create a more comfortable visual consistency on corridors between Downtown and the Canyon Lakes. Streets west of Interstate 27 also have missing gaps in sidewalks, or possess areas where no sidewalk access is provided, such as along U.S. Highway 82. U.S. 82, Broadway, and East 19th Street, which are the major east -west connections to Downtown. Interstate and railroad overpasses and underpasses should be well lighted and major intersections should have wayfinding signage and safe crossing infrastructure. Pedestrian and cyclist facilities along Broadway specifically, should definitely reflect these types of improvements as this is the main street of Downtown Lubbock, which connects the University, downtown entertainment nodes, and the Canyon Lakes. Parks within the Canyon Lakes system should also be well connected to other city facilities, residents, and other recreational spaces. Due to the existing constraints to connectivity previously mentioned in this Chapter, ensuring safe connections to adjacent neighborhoods is a critical step to increase park attendance and an active presence. Sidewalks and shared use paths should be constructed on both sides of major throughfares leading to and crossing the Canyon Lakes. Opportunities exist to connect the Texas Tech University Campus, the Lubbock Cultural District, Downtown Lubbock, and the Panhandle South Plains Fairgrounds to the Canyon Lakes. Constructing sidewalks and wayfinding/directional signage can help increase cultural, recreational, and adventure sports tourism opportunities in Central Lubbock. The Katy Trail in Dallas, Texas Source: Dallas Parks 5.35 A- L � r- r r r•" Berl Huffman Athletic Complex LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN CANYON LAKES MASTER PLAN Client: City of Lubbock Consultants: HattfAssociates, Inc. Data Sources: City of Lubbock. Texas: Texas Tech Univeristy: LEGEND i Thoroughfares and Roads Parcel Boundary Rail lines Contour Lines (2 ft.) _ Water Bodies _ Proposed Primary Trail - Proposed Secondary Trail • • • • • Proposed Secondary Trail 000 -rti _ (including existing park trail) Existing Park Trail € Proposed Portal Trail _ F rfj Existing Mountain Bike Trail IIIQP� Proposed Bicycle Route Proposed BuewayTrail P r+. IfFf - �l� �J Illi��••- •, . • - r �Proposed Canoe Launch (Put -in & Take-out Location) ion) ProposedBuewayTrail I _ lilillllllll Portage Route Buddy Hol'JI+� ° 5 P Narrow Waterway - Clearing I1 and Widening Required Recreation (+ Area I - © Proposed Pedestrian Crosswalk I _ 1a 4' P Proposed Ped/Bike yam} �a Crossing Signage Proposed Pedestrian Push -Button Signal Proposed Wayfinding and ' ; •�� -• . D InformationaLSignage Proposed Pedestrian Bridge m Marshall St Existing Parking Lot Proposed TraiLhead P • 1 - •• . • P i Understory -•- • 11,0,11 1 I! Proposed -- Canopy and Understory Vegetation Existing Riparian Vegetation Illlllllllllllllllllllllli� HIM A_ - It Programmed Open Space Rai 2132292 213 92=2 Proposed Prairie Restoration UNION W 11 IN rX is err -- •\ 1j\ O*(. 111j11j1IIIIIIIIIIIIIh _.,+ I GAO 300ft 600ft. 1200ft. a FS „ . I, nlq�pU4 i��llllll �o•n ' - '-; �I�I51111�511111115I1 . •Cq�e Cp�a o ' JPt I MAP 5.3; LANDSCAPE, '!I!I Ili 1 I'll CIRCULATION, AND RECREATIONAL ` IMPROVEMENTS Septmeber 2022 q Portal Trail Type B: Connections to Neighborhoods Several residential neighborhoods are adjacent to the Canyon Lakes. Residents in the Arnett Benson neighborhood are within a one mile / ten-minute walkshed of the Canyon Lakes (as depicted in Map 2.1, All Parks Service Area, in Chapter 2). However, residents of this neighborhood and the southern half of the Jackson -Mahon Neighborhood have to cross Clovis Road and railroad lines to access the Canyon Lakes. The only crossing opportunities with existing lighted signals are on North Indiana Avenue, North University Avenue, and North Avenue U, making these intersections with Clovis Road critical junctions for access and increased pedestrian safety. Residents on the north side of the Jackson -Mahon Neighborhood and Guadalupe Neighborhood do not have to cross significant barriers to access the Canyon Lakes, but critical stretches of sidewalk along major corridors are missing. Type B Portal Trails, are shorter secondary or tertiary trails that connect residential or commercial areas to major nodes or a larger trail system. The Guadalupe Strip is an existing example of a portal trail in Lubbock as it is a smaller park trail connecting residents to the main trail at Canyon Rim Park. Significant areas where portal trails can be implemented are around Mackenzie Park Lake (No. 4) and Dunbar Lake (No. 6), to connect residents, schools, and the Boys and Girls Club. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Develop the recommended Type A Portal Trails (PA#) and associated pedestrian safety improvements, as depicted in Map 5.3, Landscape, Circulation and Recreational Improvements, and identified in Table H.1, Type A Portal Trails (refer to Appendix H). 2. Develop the recommended Type 2 Portal Trails (PB#) and associated pedestrian safety improvements, as depicted in Map 5.3, Landscape, Circulation, and Recreational Improvements, and identified in Table H.2, Type B Portal Trails (refer to Appendix H). Example of a a heirarchy of primary. secondary, and portal trails at Buffalo Bayou Park in Houston, Texas. Source: Halff Associates Example of a trail running under a trestle rail bridge along a rivers edge at the Piedmont Medical Center Trail in Rock Hill, South Carolina. Source: (Left) SCPictureProject, Phil Smith; (Right) Carolina Thread Trail In New Braunfels, Texas, off-street trails directly connect to adjacent residential The San Antonio Riverwalk, near Breckenridge Park, utilizes a series of portal neighborhoods by way of portal trails. trails to connect adjacent neighborhoods, parking facilities, and the primary trail. Source: City of New Braunfels Source: Workshop 5.37 �IpIIIIIIIIIOUIIIIIIi? " % c • 111it�f" LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN CANYON LAKES MASTER PLAN Client: City of Lubbock Consultants: Halff Associates. Inc. Data Sources: City of Lubbock, Texas; Texas Tech Univeristy; LEGEND ` Thoroughfares and Roads o 0 Parcel Boundary Raillines T � Contour Lines (2 ft.) }- � Water Bodies O Proposed Primary Trail MacKenzie Proposed Secondary Trail j p Park _ • • • • Proposed Secondary Trail O (including existing park trail) Existing Park Trail Proposed Portal Trail U p _ Existing Mountain Bike Trail I Proposed Bicycle Route Proposed BuewayTrail Proposed Canoe Launch (Put -in & Take-out Location) n I I I I I . . . . . . . . . Proposed Bueway Trail O 'l1 0 0 IIIII Portage Route Narrow Waterway - Clearing IIIIIIUIIII and Widening Required 111111111411. ©Proposed Pedestrian Crosswalk Proposed Ped/Bike Crossing Signage Proposed Pedestrian Push -Button Signal # UProposed Wayfinding and InformationalSignage o° y Proposed Pedestrian Bridge '• O Existing Parking Lot �a/ * Proposed Trailhead �C� ■ Existing Tree Canopy and " Understory Vegetation IIIProposed Tree Canopy and Understory Vegetation Existing Riparian Vegetation 'r Proposed Riparian Vegetation ' F Existing / Proposed w _ + Programmed Open Space = i �Guadalupe r t Proposed Prairie Restoration Park ONA o � 300 ft. 60o ft. 1200 ft. \' T. MAP 5.3: LANDSCAPE, CIRCULATION, AND _. ,. RECREATIONAL Rd IMPROVEMENTS - September 2022 De ry f •` G i r « Strategy 5.2.2: Improve internal pedestrian circulation within the Canyon Lakes through the development of a hierarchy of active transportation facilities. Initiatives and Actions: Develop an off-street pedestrian primary spine trail that runs from the Berl Huffman Sports Complex to the eastern end of proposed Lake 7. As depicted in Map 5.3, Landscape, Circulation, and Recreational Improvements, the primary spine trail is a 10-12 foot wide, ADA-compliant, concrete, off-street facility, constructed according to TxDOT standards. The primary spine trail is envisioned to connect significant uses, features and elements within the Canyon Lakes system, including parks and gatherings spaces, trailheads, and parking lots. The primary spine trail would be connected to the hierarchy of other pedestrian facilities, including the secondary trails, internal park trails, portal trails, and on -street bicycle lanes. While the primary spine trail is subject to the use and enjoyment of a variety of user groups, it is designed for "power users," those cyclists who may be traveling at speeds of up to 20 miles per hour. Note that all vehicular thoroughfare crossings the primary spine trail will have signage, crossing striping and pedestrian hybrid beacons (PHB) or rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFB) as necessary (as depicted in Tables H.1-H.4, Proposed Improvements, and quantified in Appendix H). Complementary to the primary spine trail, construct a series of secondary trails which are intended to provide facilities for more relaxed walking along the shores of the lakes, through parks, and from parking areas to specific facilities such as boat launches, fishing piers, pavilions, courts, and playgrounds. The secondary trails would be similar in size to the existing sidewalks and trails within the Canyon Lakes' parks, would be five to six feet wide, and constructed of either concrete or decomposed granite, the latter of which would be held in place using concrete curbs on both sides of the trail. For a listing of proposed secondary trail improvements, referto Table H.4, Secondary Trails, in Appendix H. Trailhead entrance art piece mimicking a canoe and signage along a portal trail leading down to the Buffalo Bayou Trail in Houston, Texas. Source: Halff Associates Trailhead on the Bosque Trail in Irvine, California, features connections to nearby residential areas and destinations with multiple trail types and widths. Source: Fun Oraneg County Parks -_ ,— NW Ar ZZ 00 o Yellow House ,0'3 Draw MacKenzie O o�� Park �`r MacKenzie111111llll ` 'I Dist Golf ' -: Joyland Course Amusement IIII��IIII'- 'kU,iPark?' o Big Mack O Memorial CT- f ., O I * ,a_. Disc Park O O •II O - O p . MacKenzie 41111111111111111_, Canyon Run x.F st* ,,IIII'lll Dog-Park �Mac Kenzie� #} { Park Lake ' �F oe el dk o ° t LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN CANYON LAKES y� �* MASTER PLAN . Client: City of Lubbock Consultants: HattfAssociates, Inc. Data Sources: City of Lubbock. Texas: Texas Tech Univeristy: LEGEND Thoroughfares and Roads { - 0 Parcel Boundary Rail lines ' Contour Lines (2 ft.) } Water Bodies Proposed PrimaryTraiL r Proposed Secondary Trail ' • • • • • Proposed Secondary Trail (including existing park trail) ��. Existing Park Trail. Proposed PortaLTrail Existing Mountain Bike Trail �� 4k Proposed Bicycle Route Proposed BuewayTraiL w. Proposed Canoe Launch (Put -in & Take-out Location) "M1 • • • • • • • • • • Proposed Bueway TraiL Q� Portage Route VVdao Narrow Waterway - Clearing • and Widening Required o © Proposed Pedestrian Crosswalk ♦Proposed Ped/Bike Crossing Signage e Proposed Pedestrian ? Push -Button Signal Proposed Wayfinding and f :* U InformationalSignage r' _ .III ,--� Proposed Pedestrian Bridge American 0 (III O Existing Parking Lot Windmill O III`I' O * ProposedTrailhead Museum II�� O Existing Tree Canopy and Understory Vegetation Proposed Tree Canopy and Understory Vegetation Existing Riparian Vegetation O J1111-1�� 0 Proposed Riparian Vegetation Existing / Proposed Programmed Open Space Proposed Prairie Restoration 300 ft. 600 ft. 1200 ft. MAP 5.3; LANDSCAPE, CIRCULATION, AND RECREATIONAL IMPROVEMENTS 5.40 September 2022 Parking There are currently 30 parking lots within the Canyon Lakes system, which provide approximately 1,250 parking spaces for visitors to the Lakes. 25 lots are paved; nine of which have parking space striping. The largest concentration of parking currently exists at Mae Simmons Park, Mackenzie Park, and Hodges Park. The amount of parking seems adequate to serve the number of events and facilities held at each park. Two parking lots at Mackenzie Park, located north of the Canyon Run Dog Park and Cesar E. Chavez Drive, are gravel paved and in poor condition. There are currently no parking lots at Comancheria Lake, Canyon Rim Park, or the parkland between East Broadway and East 19th Street; though none of these parks feature substantial recreational facilities. Aztlan Park has only three parking spaces along Cesar E. Chavez Drive. To the south of Aztlan Park along 1st Street / 1st Place, and south of Canyon Rim Park along Cesar E. Chaves Drive, visitors often parallel park to access these parks. Dunbar Historic Lake and Dunbar Lake Park has two parking lots with approximately 120 parking spaces. Due to the large size of the lake, number of recreational facilities, and capacity for events, parking may be limited at peak periods, although visitors often parallel park along Canyon Lake Drive. Table G.1, Parking Facilities (Appendix G), provides an overview of the parking lots and number of parking spaces in the Canyon Lakes system. Cycling trail at Fish Creek Provincial Parkin Calgary, Canada, located in the northern plains short grass prairie. Source: Experience Calgary Greenway Strategy 5.2.3: Improve parking areas and trailheads throughout the Canyon Lakes system. As the planned landscape enhancements and trail improvements are implemented within the Canyon Lakes system there will be the need for improved parking amenities for increased visitors. Trailheads serve as primary entrances to the trail system with amenities such as parking, seating, informational signage, bicycle repair stations, and drinking fountains. Safety will likely be of increased interest as more cyclists and other trails enthusiasts will likely be utilizing the trails later in the evening, and will require safe, lighted parking facilities. Refer to Table G.1, Parking Facilities (Appendix G), for a list of existing parking lots and their location. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Evaluate the condition of each parking lot, including the pavement, striping, presence of and need for additional lighting, drainage improvements, etc. Include incremental improvements to the parking lots within the LPARD's annual budget. 2. For parking lots that are immediately adjacent to the proposed primary trail spine; consider adding bicycle -related trailhead improvements, including directional / wayfinding signage, pavilion, benches and/or picnic table, drinking fountain, and bicycle repair station. 3. For parking lots that will also function as trailheads, consider landscape enhancements that will clearly denote that they are trailheads and improve legibility. 4. As depicted on Map 5.3, Landscape, Circulation, and Recreational Improvements, in addition to the existing parking lots, x additional trailheads have been proposed which will improve access and connectivity to the trails within the Canyon Lakes system. Additional trailheads are proposed at the following locations: Order -of -magnitude costs for trailhead improvements are included within Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan. Prepare a phased program of incremental trailhead improvements within the LPARD's annual budget. Parking at Llano Estacado Lake Parking at Mackenzie Park 5.41 t✓ J�} . r.X American's \Windmill Museum (-V- Dui Historic P • • r IF P • 5� • �L► ' � ��.� .ice � -� Southeast Dr `DF LUBBOCK PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN CANYON LAKES MASTER PLAN Client: City of Lubbock Consultants: HatffAssociates, Inc. Data Sources: City of Lubbock, Texas: Texas Tech Univeristy; LEGEND Thoroughfares and Roads 0 Parcel Boundary Rail Lines � Contour Lines (2 ft.) Water Bodies Proposed Primary TraiL Proposed Secondary Trail • • • • • Proposed Secondary Trail (including existing park trail) Existing Park TraiL Proposed PortaLTraiL Existing Mountain Bike Trail Proposed Bicycle Route Proposed BuewayTraiL Proposed Canoe Launch (Put -in & Take-out Location) • • • • • • • • • Proposed Bueway Trail Portage Route Narrow Waterway - Clearing and Widening Required © Proposed Pedestrian CrossWaLk Proposed Ped/Bike Crossing Signage eProposed Pedestrian Push -Button Signal UProposed Wayfinding and InformationaLSig nage Proposed Pedestrian Bridge O Existing Parking Lot * Proposed Trailhead ■ Existing Tree Canopy and Understory Vegetation ■Proposed Tree Canopy and Understory Vegetation Existing Riparian Vegetation Proposed Riparian Vegetation Existing / Proposed Programmed Open Space Proposed Prairie Restoration 300 ft. 600 ft. 1200 ft. x MAP 5.3; LANDSCAPE, CIRCULATION, AND RECREATIONAL IMPROVEMENTS 4X: September 2022 Tweetsie Trail bridge in Elizabethtown, Tennessee Source: Northeast Tennesee Existing bridges at the Canyon Lakes such as golf cart bridges (left) and low water / low bridge vehicular crossings (right) will need to be removed or designed to accommodate blueway users. Source: Halff Associates Strategy 5.2.4: Improve the pedestrian bridges within the Canyon Lakes system. There are multiple pedestrian bridges located within the Canyon Lakes system. The bridges span narrow portions of lakes, and the streams which connect the lakes. The bridges are varying in length, material, and condition. Several bridges are in need of repair and/or replacement. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Conduct an inventory of pedestrian bridges and evaluate the condition of each. 2. Develop replacement criteria and schedule and build -in to the City's Cartegraph asset management program. 3. Identify a suitable prefabricated bridge manufacturer and bridge model for future bridge replacement. Ensure that the bridge type will function in all current conditions. Palatine Park bridge, in Palatine, Illinois Source: Palatine Parks Example of a how primary trails, secondary trails, portal trains, and pedestrian bridge can connect pedestrians and cyclist along the Buffalo Bayou at Buffalo Bayou Parkin Houston, Texas. Source: Halff Associates 5.43 Strategy 5.2.5: Implement enhanced safety countermeasures at key trail and bikeway road crossings. The greatest potential for conflicts between trail users and motor vehicles is where off-street active transportation facilities intersect with thoroughfares. Without proper intersection treatments, signalization, and signage, there is greater potential for accidents. As summarized in the Walk & Bike Lubbock Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan (2018) countermeasures to improve pedestrian safety include installing cautionary signage, rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFB), pedestrian signal timing and countdown indicators, pedestrian hybrid beacons, marked crosswalks, curb ramps, detectable warning surfaces, and pedestrian lighting leading up to the crossing. Refer to Appendix H to review plans for safety improvements for the primary spine trail (described in Strategy 5.2.2). Dedicated pedestrian and cyclist crossing with flashing beacons requiring drivers to stop in either direction when a non-motist is present Source: The Colony Texas Initiatives and Actions. 1. Identify areas where there are existing safety concerns or barriers along trail routes. Several potential safety concerns were analyzed during the needs assessment process of this Master Plan. Locations of recent bicycle and pedestrian crashes were reviewed and barriers such as unsafe intersections, major infrastructure, and waterways were assessed. As implementation of the recommended trails network moves forward, identification of barriers should occur again to determine if any new barriers are present that need to be addressed in the design of the facility. 2. Work with the City's Engineering Department and the Lubbock Metropolitan Planning Organization (LMPO) to identify sources of funding for improving proposed primary, secondary, and portal trail (Types A and B) safety at thoroughfare and railroad crossings. 3. Initiate a bicycle safety awareness program to educate cyclists and motorists on sharing the roadway. Oftentimes there are conflicts between cyclists and motor vehicles because one or both users are not aware of proper etiquette in using shared facilities. The initiation of a safety awareness program can help better inform the various users about sharing the road in a safer manner. Many communities nationwide have implemented some type of program and there are multiple resources for bicycle advocacy groups that can be referenced such as the League of American Cyclists. Typical topics addressed in a safety awareness program include etiquette for roadway crossings, trail crossings, and interpreting signage and markings. Some programs are developed in partnership with school districts so children can be involved as well. Strategy 5.2.6: Explore partnering with TxDOT to include the proposed Canyon Lakes Primary Spine Trail within the Texas Bicycle Tourism Study routes. The Texas Bicycle Tourism Study is a statewide initiative spearheaded byTxDOTto highlight potential bikeway corridors that highlight the natural, historic, and exceptional landscapes across the many unique regions of the state. The intention of the Texas Bicycle Tourism Study is to attract cyclists from around the nation and the world, showcase communities across the state, and boost economic development. Included in TxDOT's Bicycle Tourism Trails Study are two proposed trail alignments that illustrate the Bicycle Tourism Trails Example Network (https://www.txdot.gov/apps/ statewide_mapping/Statewide Plan ningMap.html); and includes one Regional Route, which is aligned along U.S. Highway 62 and terminates on Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard at Mae Simmons Park. The second trail is a Connecting Spur which follows Interstate 27 frontage roads to U.S. Highway 82 to Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. to its connection with 24th Street, where the trail heads west to Memphis Avenue where it heads south, departing the City and heading west on Route 1585. Both routes intersect the proposed primary spine trail at Mae Simmons Park. Cherry Creek Trails in Parker, Colorado, feature natural prairie grasses, educational signage, and minor trailheads connecting a majority of City parks and residential neighborhoods. Source: Town of Parker Colorado - T' The Southern Walnut Creek Bike Trail, vegetation, and bridge at Veloway Park in Austin, Texas Source: Austin Parks Initiatives and Actions: 1. Submit plans and details depicting the alignment and construction of the proposed primary spine trail within TxDOT's Plan Submission Portal (https:// apps.highstreet.work/PlanSubmission Portal/). Referto the Plan Submission Portal User Guide (https://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot/ptn/bicycle/ active -transportation -plan -inventory -user -guide. pdf) for instructions on uploading plans Active Transportation Plan Inventory. A secondary trail within The Eastern glades portion of Memorial Park in Houston, Texas Source: HalffAssociates Atrail crossing including a road diet, on street bicycle lanes, curb bump -outs, an elevated crosswalk table, signage, and striping. Source: Institute of Transportation Engineers A minor trailhead along Mary's Creek Trail in Pearland, Texas, features two benches, a water fountain, waste receptacles, and a small vinyl shade structure Source: Halff Associatoo Multi -use path along riparian vegetation in Austin, Texas Source: Georgetown CVB Atrailhead at Eisenhower Park in SaIRAntonio features a trail map, trail informative signage, public art, stone seating, and an emergency blue button box. • Source:kxas Public Radio, Daniel Ramirez i mli Proposed Canyon Lakes Enhancements Iour e: Harris County, Texas ' IIYIII � Source: HaT[Associates Primary Spine Trail 10-12 ft wide concrete multi -use path that extends from the Berl Huffman Sports Complex eastward to the east end of proposed Jim Bertram Lake 7. Secondary Trail 5-6 ft wide walking trail that provides access to and lakes and other recreational facilities. Secondary trails will be constructed of either concrete or decomposed granite with six inch wide concrete curbs. On -street Bicycle Route Shared, on -street bike lanes, with sharrow lane markings and striping in places (5-6 ft wide minimum), and signage. On -street bike lane protective devices (e.g., armadillos) may or may not be used. Portal Trail Shared -use 5-10 foot wide facilities that provide direct access between major park facilities and destinations outside of parks such as residential zones, schools, entertainment nodes, and universities. Blueway Trail Designated paddling routes for canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards from points of origin to key destinations within and between lakes, utilizing boat launches for portaging as necessary. Blueway Trail Portage Route Land -based portage routes (from take-out to put -in) paddlers must use when negotiating impassible barriers in the blueway paddle trail (e.g., dams, low water crossings, etc.). Canoe Launch ADA compliant watercraft put -in and take-out facilities for launching and portaging. Trailhead Designated parking areas where cyclists and others can access the proposed Primary Spine Trail, stop and repair their bicycle, review signage, and rest in shaded areas. 5.47 [Source:HalffAssociates Programmed Open Space Open space that is routinely mowed and maintained containing park facilities and social gathering spaces. Prairie Restoration Areas designated for Texas shortgrass prairie landscape enhancements. Riparian Vegetation Proposed vegetation for streambank stabilization and increasing shade over surface water. Tree Canopy and Understory Vegetation Proposedlandscape enhancements to provide screening of adjacent land uses, increased sense of spatial enclosure, shade and species diversity. 0 Crosswalk and Trail Crossing Signage Pedestrian crossings of vehicular thoroughfares. Safety upgrades, including striping (solid, standard, Continental), "Pedestrian Crossing" signage will likely be required. Ped/Bike Push -Button Lighted Signal Signage that notifies drivers of oncoming vehicles that there is an upcoming pedestrian/ bicycle crossing. Wayfinding and Informational Signage Signage that provides directions to reach key destinations and points of interest. Signage may include interpretive information on regional history, heritage, ecology, etc. Pedestrian Bridges Bridges spanning portions of lakes and streams between lakes that are dedicated for pedestrian use only. =] Objective 5.3: Improve water -based recreational opportunities. Strategy 5.3.1: Develop a Canyon Lakes Blueways program. Cities throughout Texas have developed their unique river corridors into significant recreational amenities, resulting in enhanced quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Cities such as New Braunfels and Georgetown have established a robust eco-tourism sector based on the natural resource of the San Gabriel River and Comal River. Regional authorities have begun to create blueways in Texas such as the Guadalupe River State Park Blueway, and the South Llano Paddling Trail near Junction, Texas. A blueway or paddle trail is a designated route along a body of water for canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding, intended for recreational purposes. Blueways are typically outfitted with additional amenities, including kayak rentals, docks, boat ramps, swimming zones, and other park facilities to create a robust outdoor aquatics program. Lubbock's Canyon Lakes system is an excellent candidate for additional recreational aquatics and adventure sports programming, beginning with the designation of a blueway. The Canyon Lakes Blueways program is a water -based trail system for human -propelled watercraft (canoes, kayaks, paddle boards) whereby paddlers can put -in and take-out at key trailheads which are strategically located along the length of the entire system. The objective is to create a pleasurable paddling experience through a variety of spatial environments while minimizing the need for portaging around significant barriers which impede navigation of the system (i.e., dams, impassible culverts, low-water bridges). As discussed, the Canyon Lakes is not a continuous, free -flowing body of water and has its share of existing infrastructure (i.e., dams, bridges, and low water crossings) which span the waterway and prevent a continuous, portage -free paddle from Conquistador Lake (No.1) to Dunbar Lake (No. 6) and beyond; and result in 19 distinct reaches within the system. The longest reach without any barriers is along Dunbar Lake (between M.L.K. Jr. Boulevard and the Lake Dunbar dam); at Mae Simmons Park (between M.L.K. Jr. Boulevard and East Broadway), and at Hodges Park (between Conquistador mid -lake dam and Llano Estacado Lake Dam before Avenue U). As depicted in Figure 5.6, Blueway Implementation Program, these three sections of the Canyon Lakes system can become the first freely navigable reaches of the proposed blueway trail. Dams and other impediments to navigation can be outfitted with ADA-compliant docks to facilitate portaging; where blueway trail users will be required to take their boat out of the water (take-out), carry it around the structure, and put it back in the water (put -in) in order to extend the navigable length and duration of the trip along the blueway. Impediments within the reach of the North Fork of the Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos River that runs through Mackenzie Park and Meadowbrook Golf Course include six golf cart bridges that do not have adequate clearance to enable paddlers to pass under the bridges. These bridges will need to be removed and/ or reconstructed to facilitate navigability of this reach of the waterway. Additional constraints along the corridor which limit navigability and impedes flow include reaches that are clogged with cattails and other vegetation. In other places, the waterway is too narrow to enable navigability. Notable areas where large amounts of vegetation exist are at the Meadowbrook Golf Course, near Erskine Road and Avenue U, near the 1-27, and the Buddy Holly Avenue bridge, and around south MacKenzie Park between East Broadway and East 19th Street. As summarized in Strategy 5.1.4, dredging, waterway widening, and vegetation removal / thinning will be required in these locations to create a wide enough and deep enough corridor for watercraft to pass. -C -40, Initiatives and Actions: 1. Develop a phased approach to implementing the Blueways program. Figure 5.6, Blueway Implementation Program, depicts a phasing strategy; the beginning (put -ins) and ending points (take-outs) of each phase is based on readily identifiable barriers which will require portaging; and the numerical order of the phasing is based on which reaches of the Canyon Lakes system can be implemented based on chronological order; on planned dredging, clearing and widening operations (Strategy 5.1.2); and subsequent riparian improvements (Strategy 5.1.3). 2. In conjunction with Strategy 5.1.2, remove the previously referenced golf cart bridges and realign golf course trail to avoid crossing the stream, or reconstruct the bridges to enable safe passage under the bridges for watercraft. A bluewaytrail in Naples, Florida, pictured above, is one of most popular regions in the U.S. for canoe and kayak trails. Figure 5.6, Blueway Implementation Program source: Naples Illustrated rtc i r� _ ,r r Phase 2 � 2.85 mi f / A rrr • f'A� t�� �; I _ �'i- i -c F ITS rr- I r1 ,.rF1rr� Phase 3� VIQG'I- 3.43 mi �3 '' rm.,..2.43 mi • w' ^' F 13 '— `� m -• Phase 1 1.27 mi f i. Phase 4 _ 1.89 mi .rrr ri r F r - t f:. r, 5.50 Strategy 5.3.2: Improve access to water - based recreational activities, including fishing and boating. As indicated in Map 5.2, Existing Conditions and Constraints, several fishing piers, both floating and stationary, are located along the shorelines of Conquistador Lake (No.1), Llano Estacado Lake (No. 2), and Dunbar Lake (No. 6). There are also boat ramps at each of these lakes. There are currently no facilities for launching / portaging human -powered watercraft, such as canoes, kayaks, or paddle boards. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Identify a variety of standardized ADA-compliant put -in and take-out boat launch structures (including parking, signage and walkway access) which can be easily retrofit onto an existing boat ramp, secured to an existing fixed pier, orto the shoreline of a lake; as depicted in the images below. 2. Study and prepare plans for each of the portage routes around impassible obstacles to navigate the proposed Canyon Lakes Blueways route. While most portage routes are fairly obvious, where both the take-outs and put -ins are readily visible. As depicted in Figure 5.7, Avenue Q Portage, there are a few portages that are more complex and will require additional improvements to ensure safe crossing. Canoe launch floating dock Source:Kay-aKcess Figure 5.7, Avenue Q Portage Rolling put -in and take-out dock Source: The Dock Doctors Put -in and take-out dock attachment Source: EZ Dock Tampa 5.51 Strategy 5.3.3: Identify areas where additional boardwalks and fishing piers are warranted to enable access to newly opened portions of lake shoreline and streambank. With the clearing of cattails and other vegetation, as well as the widening and deepening of reaches of the stream additional boardwalks and piers should be considered to provide access to previously unreachable areas; for the purposes of birdwatching, fishing, boating, and general appreciation of nature. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Develop standard boardwalk construction details and specifications to be incorporated into the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications manual (May 01, 2020) and utilized throughout the Canyon Lakes and in parks with playas. 2. To enrich the visitors' experience develop interpretive signage that identifies the diversity of native bird and aquatic life, as well as the role and function of aquatic plant species in removing toxins and particulate matter, and improving water quality. 3. In areas where there is an abundance of seasonal bird and animal life, construct camouflaged blinds at key points along boardwalks and piers, where visitors can sit and observe wildlife. A large fishing pier along a trail, shoreline benches, swimming zone, and boat rental dock in Huntsville State Park on Lake Raven. Source: Texas Bob Memorial Parkin Houston, Texas, provides park visitors with elevated boardwalks, native grass -lined trails, and riparian vegetation to better faci I itate waterfront interaction and protect critical habitat. Source: HalffAssociates 5.52 Strategy 5.3.4: Provide a variety of land - (bicycles) and water -based (kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, fishing gear) sport rentals at trailheads and lake access points. Paddle sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and stand- up paddle boarding are increasing in popularity due to the health benefits and relative ease in which to learn. Additionally, wildlife and bird watchers, ecotourists, and fishing enthusiasts generate a demand for equipment to carry out their recreational activities. An equipment rental program could be administered two ways: • The LPARD can leverage this demand to generate direct revenues for Department through equipment rentals such as boats, bicycles, and fishing rods and reels. The Department should explore options to purchase this equipment from wholesalers at discounted prices and create a rental pricing strategy for renting equipment to park visitors. The rental pricing strategy should cover the cost of equipment maintenance while generating direct revenue for the City of Lubbock. Rental prices should be evaluated on an annual basis to ensure the City is achieving the best possible return on its investment. • The LPARD could negotiate an agreement with a third - party, private sector business to rent boats, bicycles, and fishing equipment. Initiatives and Actions: Partner with the Lubbock Economic Development Alliance (LEDA) to promote the rental of sports equipment. AM The Krispin Blueway on the Saint Clair River near Harsen Island takes advantage of the low lying riparian zones and delta stream formations to bolster the areas State Parks and Reserve zones. Source: The Times Herald, Saint Clair Michigan 5.53 Canoe and paddle boat rentals at Riva Row Boat House at Town Green Park in The Woodland, Texas, is owned and opperated by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department. Source: The Woodlands Journal The Georgetown, Texas, Parks and Recreationa Department offers seasonal youth and senior adult kayak and canoe journeys down the as part of the Senior and Youth Adventure Programs. Source: The Woodlands Journal Objective 5.4: Develop a robust nature - based recreation and adventure tourism program for the Canyon Lakes. Strategy 5.4.1: Develop prairie trails. As depicted in the image below, in conjunction with the Texas shortgrass prairie restoration program (Strategy 5.1.1) develop a series of trails through the newly restored prairies, for hiking and trail running. Trails should be constructed to be a maximum of two feet in width; the surface of which should be natural earth. Adjacent prairie vegetation should be periodically cut extending two feet off of each side of the trail edge. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Develop a series of informative (plant identification and interpretive) signage to further describe significant characteristics of the resident flora and fauna that compose a Texas shortgrass prairie ecosystem. Government Canyon State Natural Area unpaved hiking trails near San Antonio Source: Hiking Project The Llano Estacado Audubon Society, in Lubbock, bird watching at Clapp Park. Source: Llano Estacado Audubon Society Lubbock Facebook Page Informative nature signage and solitary bee wall at Rockefeller Native Prairie Trail at the University of Kansas. Source: Kansas Biological Survey & Centerfor Ecological Research, University of Kansas Highland Farm Preserve in York, Maine, features a number of unpaved walking trails through grasses. Source: My Hikes Strategy 5.4.2: Pursue Bird City Texas certification through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). To stimulate interest in bird watching and nature - based recreation and tourism, consider pursuing Bird City Texas certification, a program that was born out of a partnership between the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and Audubon Texas; and is a community -focused certification program to help people protect birds and their habitats where they live, work, and recreate. According to the TPWD website, Bird City Texas recognizes two levels of commitment to improving native bird populations and their habitats: Basic certification and High Flyer status. High Flyer certification is a second tier recognition, and includes all the requirements of Basic Certification "plus" fulfilling the requirements of High Flyer. Required actions for all communities include: R1. Community forms/maintains a collaborative body that supports the application development and management of their Bird City enrollment; R2. Community creates one resolution (proclamations are not accepted) that recognizes World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) on a reoccurring basis. Community holds an event each year to celebrate WMBD; R3. Create and maintain a demonstration bird - friendly native landscape on at least one highly visible community property; R4. Include noticeable information on municipal tourism and/or Chamber of Commerce website about local birding sites, lists of native birds, tips for landscaping for birds, local educational resources, birding events, bird - related citizen science projects, and bird clubs; R5. Promote the American Bird Conservancy's Cats Indoors program through education/ outreach to residents; R6. Provide businesses and residents with education/ outreach and/or a communications campaign about dark sky lighting solutions; R7. Provide businesses and residents with education/ outreach and/or a communications campaign about reducing bird collisions with buildings; R8. Promote the use of native plants in landscaping through community website, newsletters, public events, and through use of the National Audubon Society's Plants for Birds program; R9. Provide and promote information on the importance of controlling invasive species (both plant and animal). By becoming a Certified Bird City, the City of Lubbock can achieve important nature -tourism objectives such FNN • Promotion and recognition: Nature events and programs at the Parks and Recreation Department will be promoted through TPWD and Audubon Texas • Inclusion in state-wide Bird City Texas Workshop: The Parks and Recreation Department staff will participate in periodic workshops (held at least once every three years) that will feature panel discussions with other Bird City Certified communities and learn about urban bird conservation. • Use of Program Logos: The City of Lubbock will receive a digital copy of the Bird City Texas logo for use on its websites, publications, and social media. • Bird City Texas certification materials: The Parks and Recreation Department can display certification materials at the future Lubbock Nature Center's Wetland Education Center and on printed materials (including brochures, education material, nature - tourism apparel for sale) to promote Lubbock's significance as a premier bird -watching destination in Texas. TPWD provides application support through webinars and written documentation that can provide guidance to Parks and Recreation Department staff during the application completion process (for more information, visit: https://tpwd.texas.gov/wildlife/birding/bird-city- texas/how). Initiatives and Actions: 1. Partner with Lubbock -based environmental organizations such as the Llano Estacado Audubon Society, the Texas Bighorn Society, the South Plains Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to adopt a resolution stating that the City and allied organizations will strive to uphold and implement the principles and best practices associated with the Bird City Texas certification program; including the preservation and management of wildlife habitat areas conducive to birds during migration; in particular urban and non -urban playas. 2. Develop metrics and indicators to track and quantify enhancements to Lubbock's bird population. The Mitchell Lake Audubon Center, in San Antonio, provides binoculars and birdwatcing equiptment for youth and educational programs. Source: Mitchell Lake Audubon Center 5.55 Strategy 5.4.3: Promote the Llano Estacado loop of the TPWD's Panhandle Plains Wildlife Trail. The Panhandle Plains Wildlife Trail is a state -designated system of driving routes and wildlife sanctuaries in the Texas Panhandle, and is one of the four major wildlife trail systems designated by the State of Texas. The State provides economic incentives for landowners and communities to conserve wildlife habitat while providing recreational opportunities forthe traveling public. The trail system forms a loop that runs from Abilene to Lubbock and Amarillo, around to Canadian and Shamrock, and back to Abilene. The Llano Estacado Loop is a smaller driving loop within the Panhandle Plains Wildlife Trail and is focused on wildlife areas around Lubbock. There are five wildlife viewing stations within the general Canyon Lakes area, and includes (from northwest to southeast): • Lubbock Lake National Historic Landmark (PHP 032): This 336-acre preserve constitutes an impressive site for both archaeology and nature viewing. It is one of the few sites in North America known to contain evidence of a complete sequence of human existence during the past 11,500 years. The station's location along the Central Flyway makes it a good place to view several raptors during migrations, including the Ferruginous, Sharp -shinned and Red-tailed Hawks, and the American Kestrel. Birds uncommon for the region have turned up here, including Mountain Plover, Common Gallinule and Rufous Hummingbird. This station is one of the best places to look for desert birds such as Say's Phoebe and Sage Thrasher in Lubbock proper. • Mackenzie Park (PHP 024): This is a large urban park within the Canyon Lakes and contains open wooded savanna and thickets for over -wintering residents, including the White -breasted Nuthatch and Swamp and Fox Sparrows; and several species of resident waterfowl. The stands of old deciduous trees and the stream that flows through them provide extensive habitat for migrating warblers and resident songbirds. • Lakes 5 and 6 (Dunbar Lake) (PHP 025): Small populations of breeding Least Bitterns are present during most summers. This is the best station to see wintering loons, grebes and deepwater waterfowl. Mesquite, oak, elm and grassland surround the lakes, making it them good sites to spot migrant songbirds during spring and fall; as well as sparrows in winter. Migrating warblers can be seen below the Lake 6 dam and there are several roads and bike paths which run downstream to East Loop 289, allowing visitors to explore native Texas shortgrass prairie. • Lubbock Cemetery (PHP 026): Located just south of Lake 6 (Dunbar Lake) the cemetery contains stands of trees that attract a variety of bird species, particularly during migration. Owls are regularly seen in the cemetery, and migrating warblers and vireos are attracted to the locust trees. It is probably the best site in Lubbock to see woodpeckers, including the Yellow -bellied Sapsucker, Red-naped Sapsucker, and to a lesser degree, the Williamson's Sapsucker. The Lubbock Cemetery is an excellent site for spotting wintering finches with recent records of Evening Grosbeak and Purple and Cassin's Finches. • Buffalo Springs Lake (PHP 028): Located approximately six miles south of Lake 6, though still within the North Fork of the Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos River watershed, the Buffalo Springs Lake provides winter habitat for geese, Ring -billed Gull, and ducks such as the Common Goldeneye and Northern Shoveler. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Work with TPWD to identify additional stations along the Llano Estacado Loop which can be promoted for enhanced bird watching. Bird blinds are punctured or slatted wooden wall structures that allow people to watch birds, small mammals, reptiles and amphibians up close without disturbing or scaring wildlife. Source: ArchieProject Walnut Creek Lake and Recreation Area bird watching and rest pavilion in Papillion, Nebraska. Source: Visit Omaha 5.56 Strategy 5.4.4: Improve the mountain biking trails system. In 2021, the Parks and Recreation Department applied for, and received funding, through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Recreational Grail Grant Program, for significant trail improvements, including construction of a new trailhead kiosk and sidewalk, trail markers, water station, and bike racks for the 7.3 mile long bike trail located at Dunbar Lake. To summarize the grant application, the trailhead kiosk and associated sidewalks and kiosk pad will provide a point of arrival, welcome visitors, and provide information to ensure safety and enjoyment of the trail system, while also educating visitors and the community on the history of the trail and lake system. Bike racks will enable cyclists to park their bikes at the trailhead while they are preparing for a ride. A new water station will provide visitors with clean drinking water and ability to fill and refill their bottles before and after each ride. With over 35 intersecting points and multiple levels in trail difficulty new trail markers will be erected to provide additional wayfinding for visitors, and will be used to indicate the beginning and end of a trail, a change in direction or an intersection, and signifytrail difficulty. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Work with the LBK MTB mountain biking club to maintain the single-track trail system. 2. Partner with the LBK MTB to define standards of construction quality and safety for all mountain biking structures, including ramps, jumps, ladder bridges, and teeter-totters. Mountain bike ramp berm at Barber Hills Mountain Bike Trails at Pay Mayse Lake near Paris, Texas Source: MBTproject.com Mountain biking at the Spring Creek trails in Steamboat Springs, Colorado Source: Steamboat Chamber of Commerce Mountain biking at the Lake Meredith National Recreationa Area Source: U.S. National Parks Service Internationally regcognized mountain bike trails at D'Aguilar National Park in Queensland, Australia, along Lake Wivenhoe Source: Queensland Government Parks and Forests 5.57 Strategy 5.4.5: Develop a series of adventure playgrounds and natural playgrounds. As described in the sidebars on pp. 5.61-5.62, because adventure playgrounds enable children to use tools and building materials to constrict play structures, they require continuous adult supervision. Natural playgrounds also require adult supervision but not to the same degree. Initiatives and Actions: Contact Lubbock ISD to determine whether they would be interested in developing, operating and maintaining either an adventure playground or natural playground at the Anita Carmona-Harrison Elementary School and other schools around the Canyon Lakes. Strategy 5.4.6: Construct an adventure park orienteering facility Adventure parks are an experience unlike any other. They offer families, outdoor and recreational enthusiasts and those eager for a different experience the fun of enjoying an ultimate playground in the trees. It's all about active participation with and in nature. As recently as a decade ago, there were no adventure parks in the United States. Outdoor challenge courses were typically limited to team -building sites for youth groups and corporations. That all changed in the early 2000s when the first pay to play adventure park opened to the public (https://boundlessadventures. net/adventure-parks-vs-amusement-parks/). Adventure Parks are different from traditional ropes courses; and typically consist of a selection of different "aerial trails" in the trees of a forest. Climbers navigate from one tree platform to another, crossing challenging bridges constructed of cable, wood, and rope, as well as zip lines. The trails are color -coded according to difficulty, ranging from introductory through advanced, so there is suitable challenge depending on a climber's experience and abilities. Participants wear harnesses, which are secured to safety cables using the Park's "always locked on" interlocking safety clip system (https://texastreeventures.com/). Initiatives and Actions: 1. Tour some of the prominent adventure parks in Texas; in particular, the Trinity Forest Adventure Park, in Dallas; and the Texas Treeventures park in The Woodlands. 2. Contact the Lubbock Adventure Park to determine whether they would be interested in entering -in to a public -private partnership for the development of an adventure park in the Canyon Lakes. 3. Conduct a feasibility study to determine the ideal location for adventure amenities such as zip lines, obstacle courses, and other amenities within the Canyon Lakes system. 4. Ensure that the course is built to the standards of the ACCT (Association of Challenge Course Technology) specifications, which is among the most stringent ropes course safety standards in the world. Every element of the adventure park should be inspected daily and every year, re -certified to ACCT specifications. Natural playground at Royal Parkin Melbourne, Australia. Australia is known internationally to have some of the best natural playgrounds in the world. Source: Childhood By Nature, ArchitectureAU, Tothotornot 5.58 Sidebar Natural Playgrounds A natural playground is a play environment that consists of elements and textures from the earth such as tree logs and stumps, boulders, plants, drainage paths, among others instead of a traditional steel and plastic playground structure with slides and climbing equipment. Unlike traditional playgrounds with concrete surfaces and materials that trap heat and release toxins into the soil, natural playgrounds complement the existing landscape. These natural landscapes lend themselves to providing opportunities for children to play, explore, imagine, and be challenged by the natural elements. Playgrounds made from natural elements have significant benefits for children - in addition to encouraging children to spend more time outside, they increase health, socialization, motor skill development, and are in many cases, all- inclusive. Natural playgrounds enable children to move freely around the space allowing them to run, jump, crawl, smell, and more. Natural playgrounds have similar initial investments as a traditional playground but lower maintenance costs and a much longer lifespan than traditional plastic or steel play equipment. Walking logs at Barbara Fish Daniel Nat- c Houston, Texas Source: Halff Associates Slide and climbing wall at Glen Falls Elementary School in Glen Falls, New York Source: Naturalplaygrounds.com Slide and tunnel at Glen Falls Elementary School in Glen Falls, New York Source: Naturalplaygrounds.com Kew Gardens log trail in London, England Source: Key Gardens 5.59 Sidebar Adventure Playgrounds Adventure playgrounds, similar to natural and typical playground facilities, are groups of equipment intended to facilitate youth activity, adventure, exercises, and creativity. Conceptualized in Europe after the destruction of World War One, landscape architects observed children playing with timber, old cars, bricks, boxes, and dirt, as dedicated children's play spaces were limited. Theodor Sorensen, creator of the first natural / adventure playground in Denmark, conceived of adventure playgrounds as spaces where children can make their own play structures through offering adaptable and movable elements. Adventure playgrounds intentionally lack the typical bright colors, organized symmetry, large metal and plastic structures, and permanence associated with traditional playgrounds. The idea is to create a play space made of multiple facilities that children can manipulate and interact with, beyond just a tic-tac-toe board on a playset. Most adventure playgrounds in the U.S. today are in California, New York, and Texas. Berkeley Adventure Park (California) is one of the largest adventure playgrounds in the country and includes rope climbing walls, wood play structures, three decommissioned motorboats, and two wooden pianos. An adventure playground in Huntington Beach (California) includes a tarped ground water slide, a rafting and ore paddle pond, tire tunnels, and wooden platforms. An adventure park at the Parish School of Houston includes a play shed and garden, wagons, wood boards and blocks, a sand pit, wooden fort, and rope climb. Many adventure playgrounds also include sand sifters, water wheels, buckets, hammers and nails, tube rolls, shovels, paints, and swings. Today it is believed that children benefit from interacting and playing with everyday materials providing opportunities to create and adapt the world around them to drive imagination, creativity, motor skills, and teamwork. Adventure playgrounds are typically cheaper to construct than traditional playgrounds as many of the materials are donated, found, or bought locally, as opposed to large playground manufacturers. Adventure playgrounds can benefit a parks and recreation department through providing increased facility options that can better fit the specific needs or context of an area. Elements at adventure parks are relativity easily interchangeable and adaptable to meet changing needs of youth and their parents without having to pay for large expensive manufactured facilities. Sources: Hayward, Geoffrey D.; Rothenberg, Marilyn; Beasley, Robert (1974). "Children's Play and Urban Playground Environments: A Comparison of Traditional, Contemporary, and Adventure Playground Types" Adventure Park in Berkley, California Source: CBC Radio Adventure Park in Huntington Beach, California Source: Orange County Register Pop -Up adventure park Source: Suzanna Law, Pop -Up Adventure Play MIN Sidebar Adventure Parks Offering a variety of outdoor adventure activities, adventure parks are increasingly gaining popularity across the country. Adventure parks are recreational spaces offering hiking, rope climbing, bouldering, rock climbing, zip -lining, and obstacle courses. Adventure parks are premised on the idea that outdoor activities provide recreation through mental and physical challenges as well as the social interaction of teamwork. Adventure parks can be of varying sizes and can be designed to cater to a high volume of visitors. Almost all adventure parks include climbs and aerial traversing through zip lines or rope courses. Some parks also offer bungee jumping, wall climbing, and even sightseeing trams. Increasingly, adventure parks are catering to families and young children by incorporating traditional recreation into adventure activities. The Jackson Hole Grand Adventure Park in Teton Village West Virginia offers bike parks, disc golf, and spray grounds alongside adventure activities. The Adventure Park at Nashville offers nighttime rope climbing in tree canopies with light shows and music. The Texas TreeVentures park in The Woodlands Texas is owned and operated by the Woodlands Township and includes a recreation center, amphitheater, dog park, and aquatics center. Texas TreeVentures also offers tree house rentals, private course reservations, birthday party space, and general group admissions. An optimum location for developing an adventure park would be close to a high -density urban area or tourist destination, such as a resort or amusement park. In Europe and the U.S., many ski -resorts also serve as Existing Adventure Park in Lubbock, Texas, near 29th Drive and Slide Road Source: AdventureParkFun.com adventure parks in the summer. There are over 200 aerial adventure parks in the United States. Some have utilized revenue -sharing agreements with schools and nonprofits to lease vacant land and create longer zip line circuits. Lubbock recently opened its first adventure park called Adventure Park at the old Fast Traxx putt -putt, golf, and games, near 29th Drive and Slide Road. The facility features an outdoor three-story climb course, go -carting, putt -putt, lazy river rafting, and zip -lining over a playa lake. Additional facilities may be supported in Lubbock near areas with substantial tree canopy and elevation changes such as at Dunbar Lake or McKenzie Park. TreeVenture adventure park in The Woodlands, Texas Sources: O'Neil, D. (August 17, 2016). Adventure Parks Are the New Amusement Parks, Retrieved from https:// Source: VisitTheWoodlands.com www.outsideonline.com/2106431/; https://texastreeventures.com/; The Woodlands Township 5.61 Strategy 5.4.7: Develop an adventure racing program To complement the Ironman Lubbock 70.3 race, which consists of 1.2 miles of swimming (on Dunbar Lake), 56 miles of biking, and 13.1 miles of running; the Lubbock Parks and Recreation Department (LPARD) can participate in the growing arena of adventure sports by capitalizing on the variety of parks, open spaces, lakes and streams, and trail facilities (existing and proposed) in the Canyon Lakes; which presents a unique opportunity to create a robust adventure racing program with competitions that would draw both local and regional adventure racers. As a multi -discipline sport, adventure racing primarily includes running, trekking, cycling, paddling and kayaking. Adventure races typically have participants organized in co-ed teams navigating unmarked wilderness routes while often searching for checkpoints. The course is open for a specified amount of time and teams must cross the finish line with the required number of checkpoints in order to finish the race. These races can range in length from a couple hours to multi -day "expedition races" Initiatives and Actions: 1. Create an adventure racing program. 2. Organize competitions which include adventure activities appropriate for the Canyon Lakes' terrain and climate, such as running, trekking, cycling, kayaking, and paddling. 3. Utilize the City's social media platforms, the Visit Lubbock webpage, and partnerships with private sports businesses to advertise its adventure racing programs and competitions. 2019 Lubbock Ironman Triathalon, cycling on County Road 3000 near Buffalo Springs Source: Brad Tollefson/A-J Media 2019 Lubbock Ironman Triathalon, cycling at Dunbar Lake Source: Brad Tollefson/A-J Media 2019 Lubbock Ironman Triathalon, volunteers help remove wetsuits at Dunbar Lake Figure 5.8, Adventure Racing Opportunities Source: Brad Tollefson/A-J Media Figure 5.8 includes past Ironman racing routes and potential future route allignments for adventure programming �. 'ING & Park `fl2l INING 1 �1 E. 4th St. E. CR 6600 ::YCLINCp ROUTES] E. CR 6700 �� ��l�►RTC! � � North Fork L Double Mountain Fork Brazos River 5.62 ..JJ Sidebar Adventure Racing Adventure racing is a team sport that involves navigating an unmarked wilderness course ten to 100-miles long over several hours or several days. Like an obstacle course, adventure racing is broken into stages, where each stage involves a different discipline. The four core disciplines of an adventure race are: • Foot travel: running, trekking, and hiking • Biking: up to 25-miles of mountain biking as well as biking on pavements and dirt trails • Paddling: flat -water canoeing, ocean kayaking, downriver rafting and tubing • Navigating: reading terrain features, using a compass, plotting Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) points on a map Adventure races can be one -day or multi -day depending on the training and experience of the teams. Two-day races are the most common, though the pinnacle of adventure racing is expedition racing that is fourto ten days long involving additional disciplines, such as zip - lining, rollerblading, caving, and traversing rope courses. Perhaps the most important aspect or benefit of participating in adventure racing is teamwork. Adventure race teams vary from two to five persons, although, rarely, people can participate solo. To compete in and finish a race, team members overcome challenges, share experiences and create bonds over their passion for the outdoors, adventure sports, and having fun. Today, adventure racing is becoming more accessible with two national race organizations, United States Adventure Racing Association and United States Adventure Racing Cooperative, both of which offer organized race series and national championship events. Other organizations like Sleepmonsters Adventure Sports Network also organize regional and international adventure races. Rib Mountain Adventure Challenge Source: Rib Mountain Adventure Challenge Mountain biking at Caprock Canyons State Park near Silverton, Texas Source: Rib Mountain Adventure Challenge Navigation on the Genesis Adventure Race near Bailey, Colorado Source: Rocky Mountain Adventure Series 4 3 Wev Objective 5.5: Provide programmed and unprogrammed open spaces to serve a variety of social gatherings. Strategy 5.5.1: Support events and programs in the Canyon Lakes' parks that highlight the City's musical heritage. Promoting the Canyon Lakes' parks as locations to host community events not only increases awareness of these spaces but can be used to highlight the city's history. Institutionalizing events that reflect Lubbock's history and occur throughout the year will bolster city identity as well as the identity of the parks and trails system, especially if events are diverse and attract a variety of interests. The LPARD should partner with community organizations to plan and promote future events in parks and along trails. Strategy 5.5.2: Develop an area within which to hold small concerts and outdoor performances for audiences of up to 5,000 people. As previously discussed, over a three-year period, from 1980 to 1982, Lubbock radio stations KFMX and KLLL hosted the Joe Ely's Tornado Jam, a very popular outdoor concert which was held at Buddy Holly Receration Area and featured several nationally recognized performers, including Stevie Ray Vaughan, Joan Jett, Linda Ronstadt, Leon Russell, Terry Allen, and others. It was estimated that 25,000 people attended the 1982 concert (though others have suggested this number may have been exaggerated). In 1985 the venue was moved to the Municipal Coliseum. Over the years Lubbock has become known as the birthplace of several noteworthy musicians and performers; including Buddy Holly, Mac Davis, Terry reek Ure ngelt Irail.' en csr , 2 ei, , Allen, Natalie Maines (Dixie Chicks), Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Butch Hancock, and Joe Ely (the latter three continue to play music as The Flatlanders). Otherthan Moonlight Musicals Amphitheater, which is located on the banks of Mackenzie Park Lake, and has a capacity of 930 people, there are no other outdoor performance venues in Lubbock. In celebration of Lubbock's rich musical heritage consider developing an outdoor venue within the Canyon Lakes system that could accommodate audiences of up to 5,000 people. Initiatives and Actions: Identify similar outdoor music venues in cities around Texas in order to develop a provisional program of the space and facilities required to host concerts of up to 5,000 people. Strategy 5.5.3: Develop areas that can accommodate social gatherings of up to 100 people. Develop a program of facilities required to accommodate large gatherings of up to 100 people, such as company picnics, family reunions, and wedding receptions. Facilities should include off-street parking, a covered pavilion (with lighting, and access to electricity and water), restrooms in close proximity, barbeque grills, waste receptacles, connections to the proposed secondary trail system, and preferably access to a lakeshore. Refer to Map 5.3, Landscape, Circulation, and Recreational Improvements, for the proposed locations of five "gathering facilities" Initiatives and Actions: 1. Develop one prototypical gathering facility, based on the above -mentioned program, in order to determine the level of interest. 2. Research comparable facilities in neighboring communities to determine rental fees and schedule. ■ �� •tee ;- - sy — I u.— �-- OW 5.64 A pavilion at Memorial Park in Houston, Texas, provides shaded views of the surrounding flora and habitat. Source: HalffAssociates Hanahan Amphitheater near North Charleston, South Carolina, on Goose Creek Reservoir, has a capacity of over 2,250 attendees, and serves as a major gathering space connected to trail, boardwalks, and recreational facilities. Source: Seamen Whiteside The Miller Outdoor Theatre in Houston, Texas, can accommodate 6,000 attendees, for weekend concerts and events. Source: Houston Press Strategy 5.5.4: Continue to add covered space for small gatherings of up to 12 - 20 people. As the Canyon Lakes system increases in popularity as a destination identify and map the places where people like to gather and hang out; where families will have picnics; where young women have their quinceanera photos taken; where people go to fish; etc. At the places that are least developed consider locating a small pavilion, suitable for accommodate 12 - 20 people; with a barbeque grill and waste receptacle. Parking would remain on -street. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Beyond identifying the places and spaces where people currently go, identify spaces that are particularly scenic; which offer commanding views of the Lakes and other amenities; that might be nestled in a grove of trees, adjacent to a lake or the stream. Consider making several pavilions Wi-Fi hot spots, so people could go to a pavilion and access the Internet with their laptop; in order to do their homework, or order something from Amazon. Strategy 5.5.5: Identify public gathering spaces along the north shoreline of proposed Jim Bertram Lake (No. 7) that may be linked to the primary trail spine. As will be discussed within Objective 5.8, and depicted on Map 5.4, Lake No. 7 Restrictive Easement and Proposed Trail Alignment, on page 5.76, it is envisioned that parks and open space amenities will be important organizing features and elements in the ongoing development around proposed Jim Bertram Lake (No. 7). Due to the steep slopes along much of the northern shore of the lake, it is recommended that the immediate shoreline remain within the public realm as a restrictive easement. In many areas the proposed primary spine trail (refer to Strategy 5.2.2, Action 1) will be able to be aligned within this public zone; but there are areas where the trail will need to be aligned further to the north due to the steep slopes. Additionally, several public open space nodes are recommended where additional park facilities and programming can be developed. Initiatives and Actions: 1. As soon as a provisional development program has been established for the area between the northern shoreline of proposed Lake 7 and CR 6900, review the proposed locations of the areas identified to make sure proposed land uses are compatible with the recreation areas. 5.65 Pavilion in Roundrock, Texas Source: City of Round Rock Pavilion in Copwell, Texas Source: City of Copwell Pavilion in BridgeLand, Cypress, Texas Source: Bridgeland Development Pavilion in Sugar Land, Texas Source: Sugar Land Parks and Recreation Department In Fort Worth, Texas, live concerts are held on the Trinity River near Downtown and Ripley Arnold Plaza at the water facing Panther Island Pavilion Source: Autumn Crawford, Travel and Leisure The Government Canyon State Nature Area includes a large pavilion featuring a visitors center, restrooms, seating, and a kitchen. Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife q1 Objective 5.6: Improve public safety within the Canyon Lakes system. Public Perception Based on anecdotal feedback from City staff and stakeholders during listening sessions, concerns have been raised regarding the general public's perception of the Canyon Lakes system, and concern about higher than normal levels of criminal activity occurring within the system than elsewhere. This may detract from the park as a significant recreational amenity in the future. As previously stated, the parks that comprise the Canyon Lakes are largely surrounded by light -industrial, warehousing, and distribution land uses. The proximity of the Canyon Lakes to these industrial areas may give the impression that the Canyon Lakes may not be a comfortable, or safe recreational environment. The Canyon Lakes is also disconnected from City sidewalks, the main thoroughfare network, and nodes of activity which can impede park access and visitation. Many sections of the Canyon Lakes do not have proper pedestrian facilities, lighting, programmed open space, or recreational facilities, which can result in limited park visitation and further decrease the personal comfort gained from being surrounded by others in a public location. This along with the perceived increase in crime around the Canyon Lakes when compared to other parts of Lubbock can play a role in potentially negative perceptions of the park system. dim BKemper St IQ 8 p nT m e S tia v i v a a +1m sr �t 16th S 1 Hgin.th.,m 4 { b , r i sr s S ` I � i 5 { J� iti Tq R F '�➢5.1'�h Fark - 1st PI 2nd St 225 a .. .. � irec�h�' Y t W 2 a,O,h51 `820WTexa_ Tech 15th St!-IxJ a Sprit 4 �x :s Throughout the public outreach and engagement program, specific instances were mentioned of park visitors seeing anonymous vehicles parked in areas off of Cesar E. Chavez Drive and away from park facilities. These occurances may lead to speculation that illegal or illicit activities may be taking place; which further contributes to a general feeling of unease in the area. During the public Community Survey, `Safety Concerns' was one of the least answered reasons for not visiting a Lubbock park; although, a small number of respondents did note safety concerns in parks throughout Lubbock and parks in north and east Lubbock (including the location of the Canyon Lakes). Common instances of unsafe or uncomfortable conditions noted by respondents were homeless citizens in the parks, unverified shootings, and drug use. Constructed in 2021, the Lubbock Police Departments East Patrol Division will be joined bytwo additional newly established Patrol Divisions. Source: Lubbock Avalanche -Journal Canyon Lakes *** Area rc S lin S` h+a© St ` Err I.I. I -loll. ` Z Z Area eA.. _i Er_:hlne St vu s'Py . In i a a G 71 Ei -� Ist F o K, F.�O EC FJ Y C 4� . `�:4 0O _ R. �.ii®rin_� M ' EUrsnlirre 5,' z n,ulane an} $�• •, E St , z ' errrssl t E Lehigh St z Y EErshlne51 ., �c Ri ` Y -1 E Gornell 51r}� Yv S[ yi `C` 19ate Bayl •91iE Fae '. 'A", b ® 1 S _. �- i E2 dSt J�j� i 1 ril 1' _ Pa A L Bf.J Bth 51 -�. , iff; i o i e Headquarters i 1b bk i ♦ Qaal�av E1 t 5 i G i .,�n,,9111►� za>,a� = QEast Patrol Wion�19th5+ to �, Si. o [NOR 4 St hleimrial :�emeteiY a.,me�s q .. —. u E 351h 5t .: E Ym St Itir Parks. and Open Space Master Plan LPD Crime Summary The City of Lubbock Police Department (LPD) publishes an up-to-date Crime Map of the city, publicly available through ArcGIS Online (https://cityofIubbock. maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index. html?id=d72017d8d36143949cc921a02bd24755). The map depicts specific locations where multiple types of crimes have occurred in 2022. Assessing the location, prevalence, and concentration of crimes in Lubbock and surrounding the Canyon Lakes can help City leaders and LPARD officials to better design, implement, and plan to improve safety in the Canyon Lakes system and its associated parks. According to the LPD's Crime Map, crime in and around the Canyon Lakes has included: aTheft: Taking property without the use of force and without breaking property to do so. Robbery: Taking property from a person through force or * a threat of force. Burglary-Commercial/Residential: Taking property through means of breaking into a structure. Burglary -Vehicle and Motor Vehicle Theft: Taking property through means of breaking into a vehicle, may include unauthorized operation of the vehicle. Assaultive Offence: Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily harm to another. WSex Offense: Sexual act directed towards another person without the consent of that person and including if the person is unable to give consent. Arson: Deliberately setting fire to property. Vandalism/Destruction/Damage: The willful destruction or damaging of property in a mannerthat defaces, blemishes the property, or diminished the property's value. Overall, crime in Lubbock in 2022 has mostly occurred in Downtown and south-central Lubbock. The areas of Lubbock with the least crime are in the far south, far west, and neighborhoods directly surrounding Canyon Lakes (which includes most of north and east Lubbock). The majority of crimes reported within a two-mile radius the Canyon Lakes are theft offences and assault offences, mainly located east and south of Mackenzie Park. Within 2022 only four crimes have been reported within the Canyon Lakes system. This includes a theft offence at Conquistador Lake (No.1) near Oberlin Street; an assaultive offence along Cesar E. Chavez Drive under Interstate 27 near Aztlan Park; an assaultive offence near Priority Intervention Academy and Mae Simmons Community Pool; and an assaultive offence near Dunbar Lake Park. Compared to other City parks and regions of Lubbock in 2022, the Canyon Lakes has witnessed a lower rate of crime reports. Regions of Lubbock that have the same or lower rates of crime reports are the Texas Tech University Campus, Vintage Township, Quincy Park, Rush Elementary School area, and Melonie Park neighborhood. Strategy 5.6.1: Partner with the Lubbock Police Department (LPD) to conduct more routine patrols of the Canyon Lakes system. With the construction of the Portal Trails (Strategy 5.2.1), Primary Spine Trail (Strategy 5.2.2, Action 1) and Secondary Trail (Strategy 5.2.2, Action 2) active transportation system, as well as the complete street improvements along Broadway Street, E. 26th Street; Buddy Holly Avenue and Texas Avenue; and Cesar E. Chavez Drive to N. University Ave.; currently under development by the City's Engineering Dept., there is an opportunity for the LPD to commence with standing - up a bicycle patrol unit. According to the International Police Mountain Bike Association (IPMBA), bike patrols excel at street crimes and drug interdiction, stealth patrol against property crimes, and as high visibility and public access patrol to augment community -policing initiatives.' According to the Gloucester Township Police Department, having a police officer on a bicycle has many advantages. They allow easier access and increased visibility to areas a patrol car cannot, such as parks, trails, bike paths, off road areas, neighborhood alleys and apartment pathways. Having a patrol officer on a bicycle makes it easier for public interaction and makes officers more approachable without the barrier of car doors and windows.' Initiatives and Actions: Work with the IPMBA and LPD in standing -up (e.g., programming, scheduling, and budgeting) a bicycle police patrol unit, including providing the justification, deployment strategies, training, standard operating procedure (SOP) and officer selection. 2. Contact the Police Departments in the comparison communities used in Chapter 2 of this Master Plan to determine whether they have an active bicycle patrol unit and if so, how the unit functions. Small and large cities throughout Texas have established bicycle and ATV police forces to regularly patrol parks, trails, and recreational areas, such as the Brownsville Bike Patrol pictured above. Source: Brownsville Police Department 5. Woods, T. Lt. (Denton PD, TX) 2013. Starting a Bike Patrol. IPMBA News. https:// ipmba.org/blog/comments/starting-a-bike-patrol 6. Gloucester Township Police Department 2022. Police Bicycle Patrol. https://gtpo- Iice.com/operations-divsion/specialty-units/police-bicycle-patrol/ C•' IN-11 Strategy 5.6.2: Promote park, neighborhood, and open space safety. Apply crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) principles to both development projects and park maintenance operations. How a community is built, rebuilt, maintained, and managed contributes to its safety and vitality by directly influencing personal behavior. Community Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design or CPTED (pronounced "sep-ted") is a multidisciplinary and collaborative design approach (between planners, law enforcement, engineers, designers, code enforcement, and community stakeholders) intended to foster positive social interactions and deter criminal behavior within communities. Proponents of CPTED argue that proper design, use, and management of the built environment leads to a reduction in the incidence and fear of crime, while improving community vitality and overall quality of life! Three important concepts support the implementation of CPTED principles. The first concept is that crime against people and property is less likely to occur if other people are around (direct presence). The direct presence of people provides an opportunity to: • deter or prevent a crime • intervene in a crime that is occurring and limit its extent summon help assist police in the apprehension of the offender report the crime and act as a witness. The second concept is the importance that people in adjoining buildings and spaces can play in seeing what is happening (indirect presence). Even if they are too far away to intervene directly, they can respond with other help. The third concept, relating specifically to personal safety is, the importance of providing safe choices about where to be and how to anticipate and respond to problems. This allows a person to perceive a potential problem and appropriately respond such as changing route if needed.' Initiatives and Actions: Evaluate all park improvements utilizing CPTED design strategies including natural surveillance, natural access control, territorial reinforcement, and mechanical forms of surveillance and access control. 7. Carter, S. and A. Zelinka 2013. Community CPTED. PAS QuickNotes (ISSN 2169- 1940). https://planning-org-uploaded-media.s3.amazonaws.com/document/PAS-Quic- kNotes-42.pdf 8. State of Queensland (Queensland Police Service) 2021. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design: Guidelines for Queensland. https://www.police.gld.gov.au/ sites/default/files/2021-07/Crime % 20Prevention % 20Through % 20Environmental % 20 5.69 Design % 20- % 20Guidelines % 20for % 20Queensland % 202021 % 20v1.pdf J °� . M. - _ 6wN _ i �MmWM ,a IN Sidebar Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is defined as a multi- disciplinary approach intended to deter criminal behavior through environmental design and urban design methods and foster positive social interactions. In the 1970s C. Jeffery Ray, a criminologist formally introduced the concept of CPTED and his work was the foundation of the CPTED guidelines. Later, in 1996, Oscar Newman conducted studies that established a definitive connection between crime and the built environment. Through his work he came up with the term, 'defensible space,' and wrote the book, Design Guidelines for Creating Defensible Space. He defines 'defensible space' as, "a residential environment whose physical characteristics —building layout and site plan— function to allow inhabitants themselves to become key agents in ensuring their security" The 10 key principles of CPTED cover natural and passive strategies like streetscape features, landscape design, maintenance, and community involvement; when combined, creates a more desirable place to live and a better quality of life, increases pedestrian activity and the number of people utilizing the public realm, all while improving safety, reducing the fear of crime and the need for constant and strong police presence. A. Large windows, especially at upper levels, increases visiblity and casual supervision of the street and sidewalk. B. Porches and sidewalks encourage interactions between neighbors and pedestrian connections through space. C. Pavement and architecture features help to define private and public zones. D. Clear signage, street signs, address numbers, and other spacial identifications help identify exact locations in cases of an emergency. E. Pedestrian scale lighting helps increase visibility ahead and behind you at night. F. Low cut vegetation and low fence lines helps define 5.70 propoerty lines without creating hiding places. Objective 5.7: Develop a unique and identifiable brand and associated communications program for the Canyon Lakes system. Strategy 5.7.1: Develop a brand for the Canyon Lakes. Many of the most successful parks and recreational spaces in the Unites States throughout history not only had/have attractive landscapes and facilities, but also successful branding. As detailed in the sidebar, Parks Branding and Marketing, on page 5.73, branding a park space is essential for the long-term success of the recreational amenity. Potentially the most long-lasting and successful parks branding case study in the United States is from the National Parks Service. In the 1930s and 1940s the U.S. National Parks System went through a large construction, branding, and advertising campaign aimed at increasing awareness of the National Parks Service, increasing park visitation, and to provide jobs. In 1935 6.7 percent of the national gross domestic product (GPD), $4.9 billion, was dedicated towards National Parks public works projects, public art, parks advertisements, public health awareness, and environmental research, under the Works Progress Administration (WPA).9 The lasting legacy of this campaign has been a series of silkscreen posters commissioned by the U.S. Department of the Interior. The posters are characterized by arc -deco style letter typologies and mono -tone or dual -tone color blocking. Today, this style, created by artists such as Chester Don Powell, Dale Miller, and other unknown artists, is perceived as vintage and has become an increasingly popular design style due to its simplicity, authenticity, and focus on nature 10 Developing a park brand starts with assessing the future character and programming of the park. For example, a park based mostly around undisturbed nature will be advertised differently than a smaller urban civic park. Questions to ask in the initial phases of developing a parks brand may include: 11,12 • What are the specific goals and desired outcomes of branding the park? • How do you want the community to perceive the park and how do they currently perceive existing parks? • How do you want neighboring communities and the region to perceive the park? • Will the branding be focused on attracting eco-tourists or mainly locals? Who are the target markets? • What types of words and feelings do we want to be associated with the park? • What type of brand can the community relate too? • How can we involve the community and schools in the design process? • What existing operational, monetary, or community perception issues can be addressed through the branding? The later steps of developing a parks brand involve designing parks amenities, placemaking, and forms of advertising. This can include a park website, park signage, a slogan, a campaign strategy, and merchandise. Question to ask in the later phases of developing a parks brand may include: 11,12 • What colors, fonts, and design styles reflect the desired park character and feelings discovered in earlier phases? • What physical, monetary, and social resources does the city have or need to achieve the set goals? • What is a short simple slogan or iconography can we use on promotional material? • Where, when, and how, should we advertise or launch the park branding? • How will existing and future park amenities/facilities reflect this brand and style? • What potential future issues may arise that could damage the park or city's reputation, and how can these be mitigated? • How will the branding be managed and remain consistent? 9. Jay Bennett, August 25 2016. The Forgotten History of Thise Iconic Parks Posters. Popula- tion Mechanics, Hearst Digital Media. Retrieved from, https://www.popularmechanics.com/ adventu re/outdoors/a22536/national-parks-posters/ 10. Christie's International Real Estate, November 21 2016. America's Lost National Parks Posters. Retrieved from, https://www.christiesrealestate.com/blog/americas-lost-nation- a I- parks- posters/ 11. ACTIVE Network, March 9 2022. Five Tips for Building a Recreation Brand. Retrieved from, https://blog.activenetwork.com/post/5-ti ps-for-bu i Iding-a-recreation-brand 12. Harold J. Nolan. Jr., Ph.D, February 28 2014. Branding the Recreation, Park and Tourism Product. National Recreation and Park Association. Retrieved from, https://www.nrpa.org/ pa rks- recreation -magazine/2014/march/branding-the-recreation-park-and-tou rism-product/ 5.71 Branding Inspiration and Case Studies Vintage Style U.S. National Parks Posters J Herman Russel Time Magazine Thomas Danthony IN Anderson Design Group Anderson Design Group Michael Schwab Outdoor and Recreational Facility Logos Outdoor and Recreational Signage 1 Source: Traverse City image360, Northeast Michigan Council of Governments, Top of Michigan Trails Council rinllilu RRECREATION I� HELIX PARK — I � m Source: Falkirk Council GO OUTSIDE AND STAND IN NATURE oAMAPOKE Mark Englert Tyler Nordgren t , y Source: Pic -Bois Source: Moreton Bay Regional Council 2018 toLl NIAGARA FALLS STATE PARK Source: Interpretive Design Company 5.72 Sidebar Parks Branding and Marketing Similar to products on store shelves, ideas, movies, zoos, amusement parks, or events, branding and marketing is essential to create successful parks and recreational spaces. Branding and marketing, in relation to parks and recreation, refers to the direct actions taken and outcomes achieved through engaging with and advertising a recreational location to the public. The goals of branding and marketing a park can include increasing awareness of the park, increasing park visitation, providing visitors and the community with a sense of the location's identity and values, and supporting the city and local businesses. A strong and positive public perception of a park or park system is created through defining three crucial elements: 1, Park Design; 2, Park Programming; 3, Park Promotion. Park Design Many of the most popular and well-known park spaces in the United States have a diversity of park elements. A park that offers varied elements can encourage repeat visitation, add to the value of the land as a public amenity, and cater to a wider population. Notable examples include Golden Gate Park (San Francisco, California), Herman Park (Houston, Texas), Prospect Park (Brooklyn, New York), Grant Park (Chicago, Illinois), and Fairmount Park (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania). Common amenities and park elements found in the park noted above include playgrounds, trails, sports fields, museums, zoos, amphitheaters, cultural centers, recreation centers, public art, water features, innovative experimental facilitates, and consistent programming of events. Signage used throughout the park or park system should be easily identifiable as belonging to the park, in other words, the signage design should represent the identity and character of the park. Good signage can act as public art or blend into the natural landscape while also informing visitors of the parks offerings. This can include welcome signage, wayfinding signage, park maps, informational boards, restroom and concession stand signs, and park advisories. Factors to consider when developing park signage should include the materials used, fonts, the signage size, colors, and types. The landscaping and trails within a park can become the defining factor of the park itself. The Highline Park in New York City is known for its clash of industrial city views with the natural landscaping styles of the park. The Place des Vosges in Paris, France, is known for its rectangular trimmed perimeter trees. Balboa Park in San Diego is known for its Spanish architectural features (including buildings, lighting, benches, fountains, and paving types). These often iconic defining features are found throughout the parks which helps to create a consistent character and 5.73 identity of place. Park Programming Parks programming is usually thought of as municipal programs such as summer camps, sports tournaments, and annual holiday events. While these are important in integrating the towns identify with the park's identity, many other forms of programming should occur to fully promote and brand a park. Branding of a park space can be bolstered by local non-profit entities and other residents participating in events and gatherings. A local park or location in a park can become known for hosting arts and farmers markets, weekend yoga, non -city events. Sports Tourism is a popular tool that parks and recreation departments use to advertise their parks systems and their local economy through hotel and commercial sales. A successful sports park or recreation complex is a regional draw that most small -medium sized cities do not have and can help promote a park system to a wider regional demographic. Eco-tourism is another popular form of parks promotion. This is where visitors or tourists come to see a particular natural landscape or recreational experience. Examples of such tourism include visitation to National and State Parks, reservoirs, adventure races, hot air balloons/ parasailing, and attending tours. Park Promotion Similar to business and manufactured products, parks and parks systems often advertise to the public. This can take the form of City posted newsletters of annual events, advertisements in airports, billboards, and travel blogs, and other official online promotion. The key goal is awareness and clearly demonstrating key reasons why people would want to come to visit the park. Promotional materials often include the same fonts, colors, and theming elements found on park signage and buildings, which helps in continuing to grow the parks' identity. Slogans, logos, and emblems are also very popular methods of advertising a parks and recreational space. Slogans such as "Don't Mess With Texas;' "Say O.K. to Oklahoma;' and "Your Story Starts Here; Let Yourself Go" (Arizona), are short, simple, and convey the desired feelings associated with the place. Logos and slogans are often placed on merchandise such as t-shirts, hats, notebooks, sticker, key chains, and posters. Merchandise is a relatively affordable way to advertise the park or park system, as it provides residents locally with something to demonstrate pride in their community, provides the visitor with a memory, helps diversify parks and recreation department income, and helps build name recognition. Sources: California Parka nd Recreation Society. Parks Made Life Better Branding Tool Kit, Retrieved from https://www.cprs.org/HigherLogic/System/DownloadDocumentFile. ashx?Document FileKey=6d5dble6-9048-4f20-b7ed-df942247aff2&forceDialog=0; Nolan, Harold J. National Recreation and Park Association. (February 28, 2014). Branding the Recreation, Park and T?ourism Product, Retrieved from https://www.nrpa.org/parks-recre- ation-magazine/2014/march/branding-the-recreation-park-and-tourism-product/ Strategy 5.7.2: Develop a park branding and promotion program for the Canyon Lakes. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Create a local commission or board dedicated to developing, creating, and overseeing the marketing and branding of the Canyon Lakes. Work with Visit Lubbock, Texas Tech University, Lubbock Health Department, Lubbock Arts District, independent school districts, and other community organizations to develop and identify short-term and long-term strategies for branding the Canyon Lakes. 3. Create a community branding campaign that engages residents and organizations to understand and identify the direction the Canyon Lakes branding and marketing should take. Strategy 5.7.3: Implement digital and physical branding/marketing techniques for the Canyon Lakes. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Develop a series of signage types and designs specific to the Canyon Lakes, while ensuring that the branding is recognizably within a similar family to other parks signage. 2. Develop a specific logo and slogan for the Canyon Lakes. 3. Develop a series of physical and online posters to be utilized as both advertisements and public art. 4. Identify and develop strategies for eco-tourism to the Canyon Lakes such as adventure racing, tournaments, fundraisers, packaged deals with other community organizations, promotion through online tourism platforms, and educational walking tours. Canyon Lakes Poster Mock -Up, based on National Parks Posters 4:1AL19119O LAKES Objective 5.8: Plan for parks and recreational facility improvements on the northern shore of proposed Jim Bertram Lake (No. 7). As previously summarized, the construction and filling of the proposed Jim Bertram Lake (Lake 7) is scheduled to occur sometime within the next 15 to 25 years or so. Beyond the value of having an additional source of potable water, the City of Lubbock will also benefit from the development value of the Lake's northern shore; which is a 1,400 acre parcel of land owned by the City; the western boundary of which is Olive Avenue; extending eastward to FM 835, just upstream from the Buffalo Springs Lake; and northward to E. 50th Street (E. CR 6900); extending southward, as mentioned, to the northern shore of the Lake. The proposed surface elevation of Lake No. 7 is estimated to be 3,100 feet above sea level (asl); and would be formed by an approximately 80- to 100-feet high composite dam, with a concrete center spillway section and earthen dams on each side 13 As depicted in Map 5.4, Lake No. 7 Restrictive Easement and Proposed Trail Alignment, on page 5.76, the majority of the land between the north shoreline of proposed Lake No. 7 extending northward to E. CR 6900 (hereafter, Lake 7 Development Site) is composed of a gently sloping plain which currently contains a series of central -pivot irrigation agricultural crop circles of different sizes and currently functions as part of the City's Land Application Site (LAS). The City holds a permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) authorizing the City to pump treated effluent by pipeline from its wastewater treatment system to its LAS reservoir, where it is used for crop irrigation. By the terms of the TCEQ permit, the City must conduct grazing and harvesting activities on the irrigated land at the LLAS according to an approved crop management plan.2 A primary issue addressed by the crop management plan involves the high level of nitrogen contained in the effluent. As stated in the plan, "the continued primary objective of the land application system is to minimize movement of nitrogen out of the crop root zone (and, thus, possibly into the groundwater) by meeting weekly crop water and nitrogen needs and optimizing crop water and nitrogen uptake" 14 The plain ends abruptly at the edge of the Yellow House Canyon, which was carved by the North Fork of the Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos River. Prior to agricultural production the land was used for raising cattle, as evidenced by the presence of several stock tanks (cattle ponds) that have been constructed along the edge of the Yellow House Canyon escarpment. At some point in the future the City will likely formulate a provisional mixed use development program consisting of various densities of residential development combined with commercial/retail/office land uses; and then commission the development of a schematic master plan for the property to further evaluate the likely costs of transportation and utilities infrastructure against the anticipated revenue generated from future development. The City is currently undergoing a Land Application Closure Evaluation, through which it will determine what land uses can be located within the Lake 7 Development Site. As depicted on Map 5.4, Lake No. 7 Restrictive Easement and Proposed Trail Alignment, on page 5.76, for the purposes of this Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan, a restrictive easement was delineated along the northern escarpment, descending to shoreline, in orderto further analyze the proposed alignment of the primary spine trail (refer to Strategy 5.2.2), which is also delineated on Map 5.4, on page 5.76, and generally follows the rim of the escarpment. A series of potential open space areas have also been delineated to depict where and how parks and open space infrastructure might drive and give form to future development in this area (refer to, Proposed Lake 7 Sections 1, 2, and 3). Similar to Lake Alan Henry, a restrictive easement will be required around proposed Lake 7 to ensure that water quality is not compromised due to erosion, sedimentation, chemicals, and other toxins entering the lake from adjacent development. The easement is currently primarily defined by areas of excessively steep slope which would otherwise restrict development. Other factors which may influence the extent of the easement may include a specified horizontal distance away from the water's edge, within which development could not occur, as well as a specified limit of likely flooding. Aesthetics may also factor -in to the delineation of the easement. 13. HDR 2011. Feasibility of Constructing the Proposed Lake 7 14. Crop Management Plan for the City of Lubbock's Land Application Site (LLAS), dated June 9, 2006. 5.75 WWI, Strategy 5.8.1: Prepare a provisional land development plan for the Lake 7 Development Site. Throughout history, the plans for many of America's great cities utilized parkland and open space as the organizing framework for development. Pierre L'Enfant's plan for Washington, D.C., Daniel Burnham's plan for Chicago, and Fredrick Law Olmsted's plans for New York City and Boston and many others have integrated parkland as integral infrastructure and the basis for how the city was planned and constructed. The City has expressed its interest in parkland and open space driving development within this area. Based on the results of the Land Application Closure Evaluation, develop a provisional land development plan and schematic master plan for the Lake 7 Development Site, through which to evaluate where parkland and related improvements should occur. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Adjust the proposed primary trail spine alignment as necessary to adhere to the provisional land development plan and proposed restrictive easement. Work with the City's Water Resources Department to define the rationale and extent of the required restrictive easement and associated covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CCRs). Strategy 5.8.2: Evaluate the potential for establishing "Community Recreation Areas" within the proposed restrictive easement. Work with the City's Water Resources Department to evaluate the potential for places where people can access the shoreline of proposed Lake 7. Community Recreation Areas would be places along the northern shore where day use areas could be established and programmed to include small beaches, picnic areas, swimming areas, canoe, kayak, and paddle board rentals, and other programmatic elements and activities. Initiatives and Actions: As depicted on Map 5.4, Lake No. 7 Restrictive Easement and Proposed Trail Alignment, test the feasibility of the proposed locations for Community Recreation Areas within the restrictive easement, based on topography and steep slopes, vehicular and pedestrian access (including ADA compliance), connections to the proposed primary spine trail, etc. Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan PAR D 3_.,,A Irk 1 i^ �f i� I Lake Wildwood Source: Lake Wiildwood Association, Inc. Colorado Rid` r Source: Colorado Rive a _ Walter E. Long Park -'�` --- - Source. Jay Janner,Au`erican-States man t - i f n ry s'`" 1 GiF g a Copper Breaks State Park, Texas _�._.✓ Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Objective 5.9: Lake Alan Henry is a financially sustainable enterprise and regional recreation destination. Lake Alan Henry is a reservoir that is located within the South Fork of the Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos River. The reservoir is approximately 66 miles south of Lubbock and four miles east of Justiceburg in the upper Brazos River Basin. Lake Alan Henry is managed and operated by the City of Lubbock. When operating at full operational capacity, the lake has a surface area of 2,880 acres and is composed of 95 linear miles of shoreline. The lake has an average depth of 40 feet though it increases to over 90 feet depth at the dam. The reservoir was created in cooperation with the Brazos River Authority of Texas (BRA) with the construction of the John T. Montford Dam in 1993 to provide future drinking water for the City of Lubbock. The City's Water Resources Department is responsible for managing Lake Alan Henry's water supply and transmission operations. Though Lubbock's water supply sources have changed overtime depending on demand, water quality, and availability, Lake Alan Henry continues to provides approximately 25 to 30 percent of the drinking water consumed by the City of Lubbock. On average, the lake remains at approximately 80 percent capacity. Water transmitted from the lake connects to only a portion of the city in South Lubbock. The city plans to build a water line up Upland Avenue to connect the water from Lake Alan Henry to an existing water line along 26th Street. This new line would allow water from Lake Alan Henry to be distributed to Central and West Lubbock. Most of Lake Alan Henry's shoreline is private property. For the purposes of maintaining water quality and preserving the aesthetic character of the lake's shoreline, the City of Lubbock, through municipal ordinance, maintains and enforces a 300-foot- wide restrictive easement, which limits access and development along the shoreline above elevation 2,245 mean sea level (msl). F•r. Sam Wahl Recreation Area including species, total number of fish, total weight of In addition to supplying Lubbock with clean, drinking fish caught per tournament, and individual fish lengths water, Lake Alan Henry offers recreational opportunities and weights of the top five places. to City residents and regional visitors alike through the Sam Wahl Recreation Area, which is located just east of Justiceburg. The Recreation Area consists of 580 acres along the northern shoreline of Lake Alan Henry and was developed to provide water -based recreational opportunities for the regional community of West Texas. The area offers boating, fishing, camping, and hiking and it is open to the public twenty-four hours per day, seven days per week. The fisheries are rated among the top five in the State of Texas. As soon as the Dam was completed in 1993 and the lake began to fill, Lake Alan Henry was stocked with fish. Initially, the lake was stocked with close to a million fingerlings of smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, white crappie, channel catfish, blue catfish, bluegill, and gizzard shad. Several hundred adult specimens of largemouth bass and channel catfish were stocked as well. In 1996, the lake was also stocked with Alabama spotted bass. Fishing Tournaments take place regularly throughout the year at the lake and participants must be registered with the Lubbock Parks and Recreation Department (LPARD). During the months of July and August, only paper tournaments are allowed due to fish mortality increasing during this time period. For paper tournaments, anglers catch, and after measuring and notating the details of the catch, release the fish right away instead of holding the fish in holding tanks to measure and weigh at a later time. After all tournaments, catch results must be shared with the Fisheries Division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), The LPARD operates and maintains the Sam Wahl Recreation Area facilities. Currently, one full-time employee manages and maintains campsites. A third - party staffing agency staffs the on -site Permit Office with up to nine employees on a rotational basis. The Fisheries Division of TPWD is responsible for stocking operations as well as for monitoring reproduction of various species of fish populations annually. Lake Alan Henry Wildlife Management Area OR M 0.111K • Operational Overview The Sam Wahl Recreation Area is self -financed through an enterprise fund —a separate accounting and financial reporting mechanism through which revenues and expenditures are segregated into a fund with financial statements separate from all other governmental activities. Table 2.1, Revenue Generated from Lake=n Henry's Sam Wahl Recreation Area and Wildlife Mitiggation Area, illustrates the Recreation Area's actual revenues for Fiscal Years (FY) 2016 - 2020. As evidenced by historical revenue data, the Sam Wahl Recreation Area witnessed a sharp increase in visitors in fiscal year 2020, after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly during the months of April and May. Map 5.5, Sam Wahl Recreation Area's Facilities and Amenities, on page 5.88, illustrates the Recreation Area's amenities and facilities. Visitors to the Recreation Area are allowed to purchase a single - use or annual vehicle permit, a boat permit, or combination of permits to enterthe Recreation Area. Visitors that are not annual vehicle permit holders, must stop at the Permit Office to obtain a user permit from the self -serve kiosk or from Recreation Area staff when the Permit Office is open. Annual permits are valid through December 31 of the year they are issued. Table 5.1, Revenue Generated from Lake Alan Henry's Sam Wahl Recreation lb Hunting Fees 753.08 13,023.00 12,099.70 11,640.00 12,905.00 Entrance Fees 13,700.00 200,968.00 215,044.99 221,044.99 416,755.50 Boat Launching Fees 213,685.00 46,859.00 48,269.98 48,930.00 81,087.00 Camping Fees 52,543.00 23,372.25 20,226.87 19,488.00 54,347.00 Individual Annual Permit 25,765.50 12,815.00 18,339.18 13,385.00 14,545.00 Family Annual Permit 14,548.00 , 149,760.00 166,709.93 157,940.00 216,205.00 Annual Boat Permit 149,610.00 53,882.00 60,769.72 61,492.00 79,762.00 Senior Annual Permit 56,660.00 8,005.00 6,104.40 7,375.00 0 w 7,880.00 Boat Slip Rentals 8,725.00 1,022.00 1,163.72 2,291.00 2,910.00 Livestock Grazing 836.00 5,343.73 2,880.00 _ 2,340.00 Pay Showers 2,916.14 - 975.17 853.75 3,334.50 Restrictive Easement Permit Fee - 56,464.00 63,395.00 64,177.99 82,939.50 Interest 61,780.75 1,522.07 3,725.69 7,625.25 1,739.72 Total Revenue 601,072.47 573,036.05 619,704.35 616,788.99 976,750.22 ® � i �� 5.84 ' �► • M Permit Office and Recreation Entrance The Permit Office at the entrance to the Recreation Area is very small and can be quickly overwhelmed during high -season months by those wanting to pay the entrance fee, obtain a vehicle or boat permit, or who are interested in registering for a campsite. For those who are camping, there is not a lockable entrance gate with a code that is provided to campers; meaning that people can enter and leave the Recreation Area as they please; which has safety implications for those spending the night. Campground There are currently 23 campsites that provide access to water and electricity, but many are not pull through sites. There are 10 sites for primitive camping. All campsites have a concrete slab with a picnic table and metal awning. A primitive campsite can hold up to eight persons and two tents, and checkout time is 1:00 p.m. Camping is allowed for no more than six consecutive nights within a 30-day consecutive period. Overnight permits for RV and primitive campsites must be acquired separately from the single -use or annual (entrance) permits. Campsites are available on a first -come, first -served basis. Currently, no sites may be reserved ahead of time. The Recreation Area is in a remote location and campsites are limited, which makes it problematic for camping enthusiasts who may live in Lubbock, for example, and must drive an hour to the Recreation Area, only to find that it is fully occupied. Additional campsites are needed to accommodate campers as well as additional restroom facilities. There are other campgrounds in the area. Bubba's Bait and Beer is a campground located just outside of the Recreation Area entrance and offers long-term lease sites with full hookups. Restroom Facilities There is currently one restroom facility serving the Recreation Area's campground and marina. The Men's Room has two stalls and four urinals; and the Women's Room has six stalls. Over the weekends it is not uncommon to see long lines outside of the Men's room. Sam Wahl Recreation Area Permit Office Source: Halff Associates Existing crappie house Source: Halff Associates W6031 Boating Facilities The increase in boating and fishing enthusiasts coming to the Sam Wahl Recreation Area warrants expansion of several marina -related facilities. Although current parking facility at the boat launch will park 154 trucks with boat trailers (and includes seven handicapped spaces) parking remains at a premium and needs to be expanded. While the boat launch is wide enough and striped to enable four boats to be launched simultaneously, the area is routinely congested with people waiting to launch their boats. The congestion is compounded by boats needing to be trailered and hauled to facilities outside of the Recreation Area to be refueled. Additionally, watercraft are allowed to remain docked in the lake overnight with an overnight pass. However, this is not monitored by the constable or LPD. While the current marina has slips to accommodate approximately 50 watercraft, these are quickly taken -up by boaters preparing to depart the marina or by those returning from a day at the lake. The Marina's Crappie House is also an extremely popular fishing spot. Convenience Store The closest convenience store, where campers, fishermen, and boaters can purchase supplies such as fuel, bait and tackle, beer, ice, snacks, etc. is Bubba's Beer & Bait, a convenience store / gas station which is located just outside of the Recreation Area's entrance, approximately 1.65 miles from the boat launch. Lighting _.-V Signage Parking Lot Recreation Trail As summarized on the City's website' the Sam Wahl Recreation Area's Recreation Trail is the first phase of a multi -phased Trails Master Plan for Lake Alan Henry. The trail is six -feet wide and is 2.5 miles in length. The trail consists of a fully accessible loop of approximately 3/4 -mile with a crushed granite base and an approximate 13/4-mile moderate natural surface trail. The trailhead and pavilion with interpretive nature signs are located near the parking lot, and there are three benches located along the accessible trail. The connecting loops allow hikers to vary their routes, and they connect three scenic overlooks. The overlook closest to the main park road is the highest point in the park and affords outstanding views of the lake and surrounding land. The other two overlooks are located on bluffs above the lake. Shoreline Access Beyond pathways from campsites down to the lakeshore, and the marina's boat launch facility, there are no public access points to the lakeshore for day use, including picnicking and swimming. Due to the increasing popularity of the Sam Wahl Recreation Area, several operational and facility - related (campground and marina) improvements are recommended. i tRIIIIIIN IF 1 Strategy 5.9.1: Implement an on-line campsite registration system. Similar to the TPWD Reservation Online Portal for campsite reservations at Texas State Parks, or the Lower Colorado River Authority's (LCRA) online reservation system, provide an online registration / reservation option for camping at the Sam Wahl Recreation Area, as well as for purchasing day/annual passes, day/annual boat passes, through the existing LPARD Portal (Online Services (activecommunities. com). Initiatives and Actions: Strategy 5.9.2: Improve the Recreation Area's Entrance, including the Permit Office and Gate. Improve the security of the Recreation Area by further regulating how and when visitors are allowed to enter and exit the premises. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Examine the TPWD's Reservation Online Portal and the LCRA's online reservation system and determine the features and functionality within each program the LPARD would like to emulate. 2 2. Work with the City's IT Department to determine how the LPARD's Portal will need to be modified to host an online registration / reservation option. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area Welcome Center, near Crabapple, Texas Source: Houston Cronlcle Expand the existing Recreation Area Permit Office to function as a welcome center. Additional programmatic functions and features could include restrooms; a small store where visitors can purchase books on the history of the area, wildlife and bird identification guides, hats, t-shirts, patches, fishing maps, sunscreen, snacks; and interpretive exhibits on the region's natural and cultural heritage. Implement a lockable entrance gate and develop policies regarding when the gate is opened in the morning and locked at night; how often the code is changed; how visitors are provided with the code, etc. 3. Install security lights and a 24-7 camera surveillance system to record people entering and exiting the Recreation Area. 4. Provide Wi-Fi access immediately around the Recreation Area Permit Office. 5. In addition to handouts provided in the Permit Office, ensure that campground, marina, boating, and fishing regulations, as well as emergency contact information is prominently displayed for everyone to read upon entrance into the Recreation Area. Crappie House Mal Strategy 5.9.3: Improve the existing parking facility, boat launch, and marina. During the summer months, from before dawn to late at night, the vehicular parking facility and boat launch is bustling with activity. During the day the parking lot quickly fills -up with fishermen and boating enthusiasts. An additional, spill -over parking lot is required to meet the demand. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Construct an additional parking lot for trucks and trailers. 2. Install security lights and a 24-7 camera surveillance system to monitor and record truck and trailer traffic in the parking area. 3. Provide security lighting at the boat launch to assist with boat loading before dawn and after dark. 4. Consider constructing an additional boat dock and Crappie House facility. 5. Establish a station where rentable canoes and kayaks, life preservers and paddles can be stored. Strategy 5.9.4: Construct additional restroom facilities. Construct an additional restroom facility to meet the needs of campers, boaters and fishermen. The restroom facility should be composed of six stalls in the Women's side; and four stalls and two urinals in the Men's side of the restroom. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Install a shielded security lighting system that illuminates restroom doors without causing light trespass. 2. 3333 • 6T66 Strategy 5.9.5: Construct a small convenience store facility in proximity to the Marina. Construct a small store adjacent to the existing restroom facility. The convenience store would sell fishing supplies, beer and other beverages, ice, sunscreen, baseball caps, snacks, and other convenience items. Store personnel would also manage canoe and kayak rentals. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Evaluate administrative options and preferences, regarding whether the LPARD should operate, or whether a convenience store should be operated by a third party entity. 2. Consider allocating a space for a food truck or similar facility where hamburgers, hot dogs, tacos, and other food items could be sold. Lake Athens Marina General Store, Athens, Texas Source: la keathensma rinatx.com Millstone Marina Sea S`tor� Source: Lake,Ezpo.c&n 1 f Y Eisenhower State Park beach front at Lake Texoma near Denison, Texas Source: Lake Texoma f ' - Strategy 5.9.6: Develop a day use area adjacent to the lakeshore. Develop a walk-in day use area in proximity to the Recreation Area's parking facility and marina, with a small beach where people can go to swim, have picnics, and enjoy the lake. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Work with the City's Legal Department to establish policies and regulations for swimming at the day use area; and whether a lifeguard will be required or whether swimming can be "at your own risk." 2. Work with a landscape architect to prepare a program, design, and subsequent construction documents and specifications for a day use area, including access, parking area, picnic pavilions, beach, etc. 1111111IL-2- Strategy 5.9.7. Develop a system of blueway paddling trails along the shoreline of the Sam Wahl Recreation Area. Identify paddling trails (blueways) for canoeists, kayakers, and paddle boarders to follow the shoreline of the Sam Wahl Recreation Area. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Develop a map of potential blueways. Laminate the map so it is waterproof so paddlers to take the map with them during canoeing and kayaking trips. Identify and describe unique natural and cultural resources along the blueway. Identify places where paddlers may want to stop and have lunch. J, c , .y ik Strategy 5.9.8: Allocate a portion of Recreation Area revenues to a capital improvement fund to pay for facility improvements and routine upgrades. The capital improvements outlined in the previous strategies and actions will require a substantial capital outlay by the City over the next several years. The LPARD will need to review these improvements, evaluate and prioritize the improvements against the other capital projects outlined within this Master Plan and determine a phased implementation program for the Sam Wahl Recreation Area over the next 10 years or so. As an enterprise fund, a portion of the revenues generated by the Recreation Area can remain dedicated for improvements within the Area. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Evaluate Recreation Area revenues versus expenditures to determine how much funding may be allocated to start a small capital improvement program through which modest improvements can be funded through the Recreation Area's enterprise fund. 2. Consider prioritizing the implementation of capital projects that will increase revenues for the Recreation Area. Stephen F. Austin Paddling Trail, Brazos River Source:Texas Outdoor Digest 5.86 LEW Qhgnt&6,Vulcbock Lakes 0 Strategy 5.9.9: Develop and implement a park host program at the Recreation Area Implement a park host program whereby a campsite is provided free of charge for a couple who will agree to provide general administration of the campground facilities. Activities may include welcoming campers to the facility, providing information on park facilities, resources, park rules and attractions; assigning campsites; answering questions; light maintenance, assistance to park staff in the areas of interpretive programs, grounds keeping, litter pickup and dumping trash cans, cleaning facilities including restrooms, trail maintenance; office duties, including general reporting to the LPARD; and a variety of special park projects. A campground host assignment typically involves working 25 hours per week, and ranges from 30 days to up to six months in duration. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Model the park host program after the TPWD's successful campground host program. For more information about TPWD's Park Host program, including position descriptions and applications, refer to the following link: https:#tpwd.texas.gov/ state-parks/help-parks/park-host. 2. Use the following link to download TPWD's State Parks Host Manual: https://tpwd.texas.gov/ p u b l i cat i o n s/ pwd p u bs/media / pwd_b k_p4000_l 941. pdf 3. Identify a prominent, visible campsite for the park host to reside. Ensure that the campsite has access to cellular reception and Wi-Fi access. 4. Partner with the Garza County Sheriff's Office to make sure the park host is provided with immediate support from law enforcement if unlawful activities are reported. Texas Parks and Wildlife Park Host Volunteer Program Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Strategy 5.9.10: Construct additional RV campsites. As mentioned, the Recreation Area is routinely overbooked as the supply of campsites does not meet the increasing demand for facilities. As depicted on Map 5.5, Proposed Improvements to the Sam Wahl Recreation Area, construct at least 12 additional pull - through RV sites to the north and west of the boat launch and truck / trailer parking lot. Based on seasonal campsite rentals over the last two years, if the LPARD constructs 12 additional pull -through RV campsites, with access to potable water and electricity (30 and 50 amp) it can anticipate generating approximately $16,300 in additional revenue annually from campsite fees alone, not including entry fees. Initiatives and Actions: New RV campsites should include the following amenities: access to water and 30 / 50 amp electrical hookups, picnic pavilion, waste receptacle, designated fire ring, post with campsite designation number. 2. As with other campsites, provide a safe, though relatively unimproved trail from the campsite to the Lake's shoreline. Sandy Lake RV Resort Carrollton, Texas Source: Sun Outdoors Black Canyon Wimberley Cottages and RV Park Source: Black Canyon Wimberley =119 H@M Mo o e o FWW�Ifl _►�� O _ n i LUBBOCK PARKS, F ` RECREATION, AND s OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN ur n R�c«►�_ca►n�n ,y�rea_ O ... O O 'C O O O �� ��� z4- �0 o I z-C O �4 I OE�O�'C O O,, 0T4 O • I Llake Alan Henry _ O O o V� 4: � f O O T O �I O - O O ' O i Client: City of Lubbock Consultants: HaiifAssociates, Inc. Data Sources: City of Lubbock, Texas; LEGEND Thoroughfares and Roads � Contour Lines (i ft.) 0 Lake Alan Henry 0 Sam Wahl Recreation Area _ _ — Unpaved Paths 0 Existing Parking Lot Existing Boat Ramp :s Existing Boat Docks Existing Restrooms ❑ Existing Crappie House %.o Existing Swim Area Proposed Parking Lot OProposed Boat Docks ❑❑ Proposed Crappie House Proposed Blueway Proposed Convenience Store Proposed Day Use Area Exsting Campsites with Hookups Proposed Campsites with Hookups Proposed Hookup Connections at Existing Primitive Campsites Proposed Primitive Campsites Proposed Pull -through RV Campsites Potential Mountain Bike Trails and Hiking Trails Potential RV Dump Station Potential Secondary Restroom, Showers, Parking Lot Facilities — — Potential Gated Emergency Drive FU Not To Scale MAP 5.5: PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO THE SAM WAHL RECREATION AREA September 2022 LBK Chapter5.LubbockLakes L '*I F r� ILIlxllo4:41C *A` exas a Summary of Findings Objective 5.1: Manage the Canyon Lakes as a unique environmental system which serves the passive and active recreational needs of a diverse regional constituency. • The Canyon Lakes consists of over eight parks, six lakes, and six dams, constituting over 1,400 acres of parkland in North and East Lubbock. • Vegetative improvements should be made to the Canyon Lakes to mitigate the prairie dog holes, reduce maintenance costs/time, and approximate a semi -natural landscape. • Currently most of the Canyon Lakes parkland is undeveloped with a landscape consisting of short -cut -maintained grass. These vegetative conditions have created ideal conditions for prairie dogs. Texas shortgrass prairie grasses and perennials should be planted in the Canyon Lakes to reduce sightlines for the prairie dogs, the amount of acreage needed to be maintained, and views of adjacent light -industrial land uses. • Riparian vegetation along lake and stream edges should be maintained where it is overgrown and blocks a clear water route, or added to shoreline where erosion has taken place. Objective 5.2: Improve pedestrian access to and circulation within the Canyon Lakes. • Vehicular access to the Canyon Lakes is plentiful with many large throughfares bisecting the parks. Several parking lot facilities are unpaved and do not have sidewalk connections to park facilities. • Pedestrian and bicycle access to the Canyon Lakes is limited largely due to major rail lines running northwest to southeast, major interstates/state roads, and surrounding light industrial land uses. A majority of roads leading to the Canyon Lakes do not have sidewalk or bicycle facilities. • Major crossings at the Canyon Lakes from one park to another park can be dangerous. Pedestrians and cyclists, in a majority of cases, have to cross multi -lane, high-speed roadways with no existing crossing beacons or road markings. • Internal connectivity between parks is limited. A majority of parks do not have park facilities, sidewalks, or trails. A series of primary, secondary, portal, and prairie trails should be constructed. Objective 5.3: Improve water -based recreational opportunities. • The existing six dams pose navigation constraints to anyone using the Canyon Lakes for canoeing or kayaking. Special put -in and take-out locations should be established to enable access around the dams. • Access to the lake's shores should be increased by improving existing docks/fishing piers and adding new boardwalks/ docks in specific areas. Objective 5A Develop a robust nature -based recreation and adventure tourism program for the Canyon Lakes. • Existing mountain bike trails are largely unshaded and lack vegetation. Entrance points and signage along mountain bike trails should be improved. • Informative signage should be added to natural areas describing the landscape. • Canoe and kayak rentals should be added along the various lakes within the Canyon Lakes system. • Adventure racing, and potentially an adventure park, should be added to the Canyon Lakes. Existing adventure racing can be expanded within the Canyon Lakes to include boating, climbing, mountain biking, and navigation. • Natural playgrounds and adventure playgrounds should be added in the Canyon Lakes near schools to offer alternative play and nature opportunities for youth. Objective 5.5: Provide programmed and unprogrammed open spaces to serve a variety of social"gatherings. • The Canyon Lakes should feature public gathering spaces for casual purposes, rental opportunities, and live performances. A performance space for up to 5,000 people should be created, along with other small pavilions for family and social gatherings. Objective 5.6: Improve public safety within the Canyon Lakes system. • LPARD should partner with the Lubbock Police Department to conduct more routine patrols of the parks. This could include additional operations out of the East Patrol Station, horse mounted police, and/or cycling police. • The Canyon Lakes should be designed to reduce the opportunities for crime related activities, such as preventing opportunities to hide, access to unpatrolled or unvisible zones, and ensuring proper lighting along trails and parking lots. Objective 5.7: Develop a unique and identifiable brand and associated communications program for the Canyon Lakes system. • LPARD should create a specific brand, marketing strategies, logo, and programming for the Canyon Lakes. This will help to market the Canyon Lakes to nature tourists, city residents, towns in the neighboring region, and help to support other efforts such as sports tournaments, nature -tourism, business and community involvement, and community programming. Objective 5.8: Plan for parks and recreational facility improvements on the northern shore of proposed Jim Bertram Lake (No. 7) • Implement a 300 ft. buffer around Proposed Lake 7, where development may be difficult, for dedicated parks and recreational space. • Consider recreational facilities along the lake shore including a primary trail and nodes of activity, which can include a marina, boat house, beach front, hiking trails, etc. Objective 5.9: Lake Alan Henry is a financially sustainable enterprise and regional recreation destination. • Construct new primitive campsites and adapt 12 existing camp sites with an eletrical hook up • Construct a beach front day use zone along the shore, anew convenience store, and entrance gate improvements. • Develop a blueways program and a series of put -in and take-out locations MIX • el [Zi @ 0 lzimrrerLO)r• 7 dill gyp' p All `/ ' 3 •� '� r F ' I .. s a► source: �Jaf oc' �~ �' �. arm na •�M r�� a► ..���� •r �� � ,gip. � �+► �.... •• � Ts'r. i►: . _ .. _. r'� r• � 4 ,� +�_ w� ''• i ra ��� y + ww♦ a.. a 'r'w� �. . +w�w��� �i'�w Table of Contents ImplementationProgram........................................................................................................................................6.1 PlanAdministration..................................................................................................................................................6.3 Priority Implementation Projects...........................................................................................................................6.11 Figure6.1, Master Plan Priorities....................................................................................................................................6.12 ImplementationAction Table..................................................................................................................................6.13 Figure 6.2, Implementation Timeframe........................................................................................................................6.13 Figure 6.3, Implementation Actions By Type..............................................................................................................6.14 Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan..........................................................................................................................6.15-6.52 Implementation Program Purpose This chapter summarizes next steps in the implementation of the strategies and recommendations proposed for the City's parks system, active transportation network, recreation programs, and future adventure- and nature - based recreation program, as outlined in Chapter 2, Lubbock's Parks; Chapter 3, Sports and Athletic Facilities; Chapter 4, Indoor Recreation and Aquatics; and Chapter 5, Lubbock's Lakes. A key principle of this plan was to involve the public in planning for its parks, trails, and recreation needs and preferences. This was accomplished through multiple discussions with stakeholders, Lubbock Parks and Recreation Department (LPARD) leadership and staff, and through the community needs survey to which over41500 of Lubbock's residents responded. The assessment sections of each chapter incorporate the needs and preferences resulting from the community surveys and quantifies the additional parkland, facilities, and improvements needed to keep pace with community growth and increasing demands. As recommended, providing ongoing outreach efforts and opportunities for community engagement will keep the plan focused on this objective. o. 4 Implementation Success Factors Several key factors will be integral to the success of the implementation program, including the dedication of the City's leadership; continued public involvement; acceptance and commitment by all municipal departments; plan reference and integration into other development and capital projects; and ongoing monitoring and evaluation, as described below. Dedication of the City's Leadership Members of City Council, City staff, the LPARD, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, other municipal departments, and the community all have a role, and must assume ownership of the Master Plan in order for it to be successfully implemented over the next 10 years and beyond. Public Engagement The City solicited the input and guidance of the community and stakeholders during the preparation of this Master Plan to guide the prioritization of departmental projects and program initiatives. This input should continue by way of regular focus groups; stakeholder listening sessions; an annual summit of commercial, educational, and non-profit organizations; and periodic community surveys focused solely on parks and recreation topics. Furthermore, residents should be engaged in conversations through public meetings to aid in the process of park design, and to weigh-in on the development of new trails, nature -based programs, park themes, and proposed changes to existing programs. Dedication, Acceptance, and Commitment Beyond the leadership of the LPARD, several of the City's departments have roles in implementing this Master Plan. This may include, among others, the consideration of land proposed for parkland dedication as part of subdivision platting review by the City's Planning Department; the review, administration, and implementation of capital projects by the Engineering, Street, and Water Departments, regarding playa enhancements and drainage improvements serving parks, not to mention assistance with the construction of the hierarchy of proposed trails and on -street active transportation facilities, and ensuring accessibility of specific park facilities. For these reasons, each of these and other departments may support, through various avenues, the realization of this Master Plan. It will be important to maintain communication and coordination between these departments and agencies, and the LPARD to ensure efficiency and ongoing success. Coordination and Collaboration Collaboration with local and regional partners will become increasingly important given fiscal constraints and considering the oftentimes common missions and objectives of each. This Master Plan advises the City to actively promote strong partnerships through intergovernmental and/or cooperative agreements for the provision of open space for parkland, trails and trailheads, recreation facilities and programs; particularly for the larger, more capital -intensive projects, such as the proposed recreation center and natatorium, summarized in Chapter4, Indoor Recreation and Aquatics, for which there may be opportunities to partner with the Lubbock -Cooper Independent School District (LCISD) and others; or the primary spine trail through the Canyon Lakes, as described in Chapter 5, Lubbock's Lakes, which will likely require capital partnerships with state agencies such as the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). Evaluation As with any plan, the City of Lubbock's Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan must be kept up to date on a regular basis. This is essential because, although this plan considers community needs over the next 10 to 20 years, the TPWD requires a five-year plan update, meaning this plan will need to be updated in 2028. During the interim, the Master Plan will need to be reviewed annually and amended as needed to reflect changes in the mission and goals of the LPARD, the changing needs and attitudes of the community, unforeseen capital resource opportunities, and fluctuations in the City's adopted annual budget and Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Annual reviews will ensure that the recommended actions are viable and realistic, and reconciled with the CIP and operating budgets. These reviews will also help the City to gauge its progress in meeting the vision, goals, and objectives of the Master Plan. LUBBOCK, TEXAS 4Lubb""`c"k M* Plan Administration Partnerships and participation by various groups was critical in developing the Master Plan. Continued cooperation from the public sector, businesses, neighborhoods, civic groups, and the public will be important in implementing the recommendations from this planning program. Study Implementation Activities Primary Action Leaders City of Lubbock The LPARD staff will manage the day-to-day implementation of the Master Plan's recommendations and will bne responsible for generally shepherding the implementation process. Specific staff activities include: • Acting as "champion" to promote implementation of plan recommendations • Supporting and carrying out capital improvements and other planning efforts • Reviewing newly drafted or amended land development regulations, and working with the appropriate Boards and Commissions • Conducting studies and developing additional plans (including managing consultant efforts, as necessary) • In coordination with the City Manager's Office and City Council, negotiating the specifics of interlocal agreements • Administering collaborative programs and ensuring open channels of communication with various public, private, and non-profit implementation partners • Providing briefings on plan implementation progress and activities to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and City Council on a quarterly basis, and no less than annually • Maintaining an inventory of potential plan amendments, as suggested by City staff and others, for consideration during annual and periodic plan review and update processes. As indicated in the Implementation Action Plan, other Primary Action Leaders whose roles are essential to ensuring effective Master Plan implementation include: • Frenship Independent School District (FISD) • Lubbock Engineering Dept. (LED) • Lubbock Independent School District (LISD) • Lubbock -Cooper Independent School District (LCISD) • Lubbock Sports • Lubbock Water Department (LWD) • Texas Dept. of Transportation (TxDOT) • Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) M City Council The Lubbock City Council will assume the significant role in implementation of this study. The key responsibilities of the City Council are to decide and confirm priorities, confirm timeframes by which each action will be initiated and completed, and determine what capital resources can be made available for implementation efforts. The City Council Master Plan - related roles may include the following: • Adopting and amending the Master Plan by City Resolution • Adopting new or amended land development regulations • Approving interlocal agreements • Affirming the overall action priorities and timeframes • Approving funding commitments • Approving projects and activities and the associated costs during the budget process It will be important that City Council remains informed about the Master Plan's important contributions to improving the quality of life and economic well-being of Lubbock's citizens and the incremental progress being made in implementing the Master Plan, so they can answer questions from the constituency and rally support for the Plan's recommended projects. Partnerships Public -Private Partnerships Public -private partnerships are a potential and extremely valuable solution for implementing many of the initiatives in the Master Plan, particularly those relating to parkland acquisition. Partnerships between public sector and private developers, for example, can create opportunities for new and innovative approaches for dedicating, financing, developing, and maintaining parks and recreation facility projects. Innovative approaches to procuring and funding civic and social infrastructure allows policy makers and industry leaders to engage in mutually beneficial relationships which serve the public good, creating much needed jobs in the process. The partnerships would allow for the sharing of risks and responsibilities while achieving the vision and goals established by all parties involved. It will be essential to engage the real estate community (investors, developers, brokers, etc.) early and often, working collaboratively with the City of Lubbock to create solutions where there is ownership across the board. These long-term relationships and comprehensive solutions will help to foster potential public private partnerships to move projects forward. Non -governmental organizations (NGOs) and private entity partners, such as the Texas Playa Conservation Initiative, the Playa Lakes Joint Venture, and American Rivers, can and will play an important role in advancing the community's initiatives related to enhancing the ecological function of the City's system of playas, as well as ecosystem restoration activities within the Canyon Lakes. It will be critical to identify potential partners early so they can be invited to participate in developing an implementation plan for specific ecological projects, so they can take ownership in the process, and help bring projects to reality through administrative, technical, and/or financial support. Academic institutions in and around Lubbock should not be overlooked for their potential to support the efforts of the Master Plan and the development of ISD "SPARK" parks (public parks and ISD-owned land). Education partners, such as Texas Tech University's Department of Landscape Architecture, will have the potential to bring landscape architectural support and industry -specific knowledge to this initiative. Lubbock Sports Lubbock Sports has several roles to play in advancing the successful implementation of the Master Plan. Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: • Promoting Plan recommendations found within Chapter 3, Sports and Athletic Facilities • Promoting the use of LPARD facilities for local and regional tournaments • Remaining current and knowledgeable about in trends in sports and recreational programming and informing the LPARD about needed facility improvments • Promoting national and regional sports tourism in Lubbock • Formulating metrics and quantifying the economic impact resulting from implementing Plan recommendations Education Although spatial plans such as this Master Plan remain largely at a "30,000-foot" level, they are still complex policy documents that account for interrelationships among various policymakers. As such, educating decision -makers and administrators about plan implementation is an important first step after adoption. As the principal groups that will ultimately be responsible for implementing the Master Plan, the Lubbock City Council, Planning and Zoning Commission, City department heads and staff, and external quasi- :1 governmental organizations should all be on the same page with regard to priorities, responsibilities, and interpretations related to implementation of the Lubbock Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan. Consequently, an education initiative should be undertaken immediately after the Master Plan's adoption to include: • A discussion of the individual roles and responsibilities of the City Council, City departments, other advisory bodies, and individual staff members • A thorough overview of the entire Master Plan, with emphasis on the parts of the Master Plan that relate to each individual group • Implementation tasking and priority setting, which should lead to the LPARD to establishing a one- to three-year implementation agenda • An in-depth question and answer session, with support from the City Engineer, the Director of the Water Department, Planning Department personnel, members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, and other key staff. Study Monitoring and Amendment Process Shifts in political, economic, physical, technological, and social conditions, as well as other unforeseen circumstances, may influence and change the priorities and fiscal outlook of the community. To ensure that the Master Plan continues to reflect the overall goals of the community and remains relevant and resourceful over time, the Master Plan must be revisited on a regular basis to confirm that the plan elements are still on point and the associated goals, policies, and action statements are still appropriate. Revisions to the Master Plan are two -fold, with minor study amendments occurring as needed and more significant modifications and updates occurring every five to 10 years. Minor amendments may include revisions to certain study elements as a result of the adoption of another specialized plan or the refinement of key concepts through engineering design development. Major updates will involve reviewing the base conditions and assumptions related to anticipated growth trends, re-evaluating the goals, policies, and recommendations, and formulating new ones as necessary based on implementation progress. Annual Progress Report The LPARD and City staff, should prepare an annual progress report for presentation to the Mayor and City Council. The Annual Progress Report should include and highlight: • Significant actions and accomplishments during the past year; • Obstacles or problems in the implementation of the study; • Proposed amendments to the Lubbock Unified Development Code and the Lubbock Design Standards and Specifications Manual; and • Recommendations for needed actions, programs, and procedures to be developed and implemented in the coming year, including recommendation of projects to be included in the City's Capital Improvement Program (CI P). Bi-annual Amendment Process Based on the Annual Progress Report, City staff, the LPARD, and others may determine if amendments to the Master Plan are warranted. Factors that should be considered in deciding on a proposed plan amendment include: • Consistency with the goals and policies set forth in the Master Plan; • Impacts on the City's abilityto provide, fund, and maintain parks and facilities improvements; and • Impacts on environmentally sensitive and natural areas (e.g., playas); and whether the proposed amendment contributes to the overall direction and character of the community as captured in the Master Plan vision and goals (and ongoing public input). Monitoring Master Plan Success All review and updating processes related to the Lubbock Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan should incorporate specific performance measures and quantitative indicators that can be compiled and communicated both internally and to elected officials and citizens in a "report card" fashion. Performance indicators which the City of Lubbock may wish to track include: • Acres of Texas shortgrass prairie restored in the Canyon Lakes • Linear miles of primary spine trail constructed • Number of playa lakes restored • Number of playgrounds replaced • Number of parking lots repaved in the Canyon Lakes • Number of Pickleball courts constructed • Number of LPARD Maintenance FTEs added to staff • Number of trees planted • Number of park irrigation systems audited • Increase in park attendance Master Plan Administration - related Strategies and Recommendations Strategy 6.1.1: Continually provide opportunities for residents to provide feedback on overall park, recreation, and trail system satisfaction and unmet service needs and interests. This planning process resulted in a greater understanding of community needs and desires as they relate to parks and recreation, through the input gathered via public meetings and the survey. However, as made evident with the recent Covid-19 public health pandemic, trends and desires can quickly change, especially as demographics shift. Continue to provide avenues through which to facilitate public engagement and garner the public's interests and desires related to parks and recreation. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Periodic resident satisfaction surveys can help provide an updated snapshot of current needs and desires. 2. The LPARD should reach a better understanding of overall satisfaction ratings overtime and adjust programs or services where warranted. a Strategy 6.1.2: Maintain strong internal communications with other municipal departments, and appointed and elected officials. Submit quarterly briefings and annual progress reports to the City Council to inform them of the implementation status of Master Plan strategies and recommendations. Initiatives and Actions: 1. Assess and internally update this master plan on an annual basis to determine revised areas of need based on recent developments. 2. An annual progress report detailing LPARD progress in fulfilling Master Plan objectives through implementing strategies should be presented to the City Manager's Office, City Council, Parks Advisory Board, and Planning Department. Modify the LPARD's CIP according to changing circumstances and priorities. 4D Glenna Goodacre Median Greenway Source: American Campus t V Strategy 6.1.3: Prepare an annual progress report regarding park improvements to be presented to the Parks Board, Planning Dept. and City Council. Actions and Initiatives: Include park conditions assessment scoring updates, past -current -future projects, park damage, and other improvements, in an annual progress report. Strategy 6.1.4: Establish a "Friends of Lubbock's Parks Foundation." Inadequate funding is a common and longstanding concern for local public park and recreation departments. Traditionally, these services are funded predominantly through tax -based allocations, supplemented by other streams such as earned revenue, dedicated levies, and sponsorship agreements. Cost-cutting measures such as outsourcing, overall staffing reductions, and an increasing reliance on a part- time workforce have also become increasingly common in the context of local park and recreation service delivery. Partnerships with nonprofit organizations represents another potential strategy to adequately fund local park and recreation services. Partnerships between local park and recreation agencies and nonprofit park and recreation foundations have a long history and help support local park and recreation agencies in a variety of capacities. Their importance may also be growing as a function of the decline in tax -based support and earned revenue due to both the Great Recession and the global + COVID-19 pandemic. the responsibilities of which would include fundraising for specific parks amenities and enhancements; the acceptance of land and other assets for the benefit of the LPARD. According to research conducted by the NRPA,' in addition to the traditional fundraising role for their park and recreation districts, productive park foundations also conducted some of the following activities: • Provide financial assistance to parks departments through facilitating capital campaigns for the purchase of park facilities and equipment • Promote the social, educational, environmental and cultural life of communities • Receive and accept charitable gifts on behalf of a parks department • Promote park programs and facilities M • Conduct organized opinion campaigns advocating for additional park financing from annual local taxes and park maintenance and development bond funds • Own, maintain, manage and operate facilities and programs on public spaces • Coordinate and leverage the efforts of friends groups volunteers • Serve as a fiscal agent for groups working to improve parks • Restore public space, maintain public trees and beautify schools and open space The NRPA found that the level of contributions and grants for parks improvements were larger when park foundations provide fiduciary services for support and friends groups, mobilize volunteers, offer grants, promote or operate events, publish a list of needs, or provide advocacy and coalition services. The expanded roles create synergy resulting in improved park maintenance, greater taxpayer support per resident and an enhanced reputation regarding the quality of community parks. Actions and Initiatives: For more information, contact the following organizations: • National Association of Park District Foundations (NAPDF): https://www.the-napf. org/American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA): https://aapra.org/ Strategy 6.1.5: Consider pursuing Parks and Recreation Department accreditation through the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). Standards for national accreditation provide an authoritative assessment tool for park and recreation agencies. Through compliance with these national standards of excellence, CAPRA accreditation assures policy makers, department staff, the general public and taxpayers that an accredited park and recreation agency has been independently evaluated against established benchmarks as delivering a high level of quality with respect to park facilities. Accreditation Process Accreditation is based on an agency's compliance with the 151 standards for national accreditation. To achieve accreditation, an agency must comply with all 37 fundamental standards, and at least 85 percent, or 97, of the remaining 114 standards (refer to Appendix J, CAPRA Standards) . CAPRA accreditation is a five-year cycle that includes three phases, including: • Development of the agency self -assessment report; • On -site evaluation; and, • The Commission's review and decision. If accreditation is granted by the Commission, the agency will develop a new self -assessment report which will be revisited every five years. Within each of the four years between on -site visits, the agency will submit an annual report that addresses its continued compliance with the accreditation standards. Understanding Standards A standard is a statement of desirable practice as set forth by experienced professionals. In evaluating an agency for accreditation, the standards are a measure of effectiveness using the cause and effect ("if ... then") approach. In practice, if an agency complies with a given standard, then it is expected that the agency's operations related to that standard will be positively affected. Viewed holistically, if an agency complies with the vast majority of the standards, then it is understood that the agency is performing a quality operation. There are several benefits for pursuing CAPRAAgency accreditation. Benefits for the public include: • Assurance and validation of well -administered services in accord with approved professional practices • Potential for external financial support and savings to the public • External recognition of a quality governmental service • Holds and agency accountable to the public and ensures responsiveness to meet their needs • Improves customer and quality services Benefits for the Parks Department include: • Public and political recognition • Increased efficiency and evidence of accountability • Answers the question, "How are we doing?" through extensive self evaluation • Identifies areas for improvement by comparing an agency against national standards of best practice • Enhances staff teamwork and pride by engaging all staff in the process • Creates an environment for regular review of operations, policies and procedures, and promotes continual improvement • Forces written documentation of policies and procedures. Forthe Parks and Recreation Department, earning the national CAPRA accreditation is a progression in excellence. Actions and Initiatives: 1. Based on review of CAPRA accreditation standards, develop a realistic schedule and plan of priority action items based on a determination of which Fundamental Standards remain to be completed and which remaining Standards the Parks and Recreation Department plans to fulfill. 2. Contribute LPARD administrative information to NRPA Park Metrics. In partial fulfillment of CAPRA standards, begin uploading LPARD administration, operations, and maintenance data to the NRPA's park metrics (refer to CAPRA Standard 10.5.3). 3. Review the "Suggested Evidence of Compliance" section in order to identify an acceptable means of demonstrating compliance with a standard. 4. Based on CAPRA guidelines, prepare an "Agency Self -Assessment" and "Evidence of Compliance" and submit to the CAPRA. 5. Upon acceptance of the above -mentioned documentation, schedule a tour for CAPRA representatives to visit Lubbock's Parks and Recreation Department and its facilities. Table 6.1, Park Naming Conventions ANDREWS, CLIFFORD PARK Andrews, H. Clifford Park Andrews Andrews Andrews Clifford Andrews Park Source: Broadway Festivals Santa Land tree and light display at Mackenzie Park Source: KCBD Lubbock Wine and Clay Festival at the American Windmill Museum, near Mackenzie Park and Mae Simmons Park 6.9 Source: Lubbock Avalanche -Journal Strategy 6.1.6: Consider purchasing a software platform for automating the PARD's CAPRA annual reporting requirements. Several CAPRA-accredited parks departments utilize the PowerDMS software platform to assist with annual CAPRA reporting requirements. Ensure that departmental and divisional administrators receive adequate training regarding the use of this program. 2. Schedule times when CAPRA reporting information should be submitted well in advance of when it is due. Strategy 6.1.7: Revise park naming conventions Currently the City of Lubbock does not have standardized park naming conventions, leading to conflicting navigational and data comparision issues between datasets. Table 6.1, Park Naming Conventions, illustrates the multiple naming conventions used for Cifford H. Andrews Park. It is recommended that City GIS, park datasets, City and LPARD websites, and every -day public communications should utilize the same naming convention; and that convention should most likely be common park name as the primary name when refering to a specific park. Actions and Initiatives: Rename the data and update all references to each park. Strategy 6.1.8: Recalibrate park acreages. As described in Appendix L, the TTU DoLA datasets indicate a 7.2 percent variance in the total area of Lubbock's parks (outside of the Canyon Lakes system), which amounts to 106.35 acres of additional park property. Actions and Initiatives: Rerecord the data and update all references to each park. Submit new acreage data to TPL for inclusion within Park Score. l0 •.:.*w I- IL Aw a •r•�,.:firlRia � �.•a.. .��.. \.._ - � T ..- t • ,♦• ^�...�,: � .7� i`+�1, �MV!.- V r• ��,'"TT• 1✓ ..fit t�M,�'a�.�: 'ay��{�;c�. � .Jr � 1 '.• .. _, •_ !' jai �• )•. ,•�•�[ ;�, ;Zi��y,�, ,•/y;- �' ., ,:,..� _ ,,• •may r 02-1 t�f,'���';`d !kA �!�"••'ram•- • t�•�?• s- ... N �.� �2 �i► 1 . �. w �4 +' i r - • r ' • - ! .jyyj.1 '`�~ r f �•": y t?*Rti•�F`il� •.. .1�'?�f►.�li ` .' �"'pT� '1•,:.�, ;�•, `.. �r/..,-,/-1�;i ♦�F •'�10 •�• �;� ,' rsj•ZS•Kr•► . � .. 11 .:�����.. r^•i; . - : :�,•��+_Z�.� N.:4.fiyf i _v,�d!+.� 2�.'S1`,r .J r��.. ,_ - - �,: 777"�'+ ', y�.{'•h / '1 y..l'1�.'wc.._ �l:l}'���'. _ f% .•rit�vr7i'^"��.it1•�S:![t�r�llClLl�1»C�:•�'���!"i�i•,fl`k7► ��1. Funding for Implementation Implementation of this Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan is, and will remain an ambitious endeavor. It will not happen overnight. Indeed, the Master Plan's big ticket projects, such as replacing Clapp Pool with the up to date aquatic amenities will alone be a $10 million dollar enterprise. Projects such as constructing a new recreation center and natatorium will likely require in excess of $70 million, will far exceed the framework of a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) appropriation and will likely require a major general obligation bond initiative to implement. Other projects of equal significance, however, may be afforded by way of the Parks Department's annual budget. Some projects, such as restoring the Canyon Lakes' back to a Texas shortgrass prairie ecosystem, may not be as capital -intensive as others, though the implementation of which will first require other recommendations be fulfilled in order for the project to be implemented; such as hiring the requisite horticulture staff to propagate native prairie grasses and forbs from seed on prepared lands apportioned from the City's Land Application Site so the plants can be irrigated. For some projects, such as constructing the proposed primary spine trail, from the Berl Huffman Sports Complex to east of proposed Lake No. 7, the appropriate funding entities and program opportunities have already been identified. Other projects may be funded through the public, quasi -public, and private funding opportunities listed in Appendix I, Funding for Implementation. Many recommended projects will not have a readily apparent funding entity. All projects will require building relationships. What's important is to develop the critical path framework through which incremental progress can be made on multiple fronts while preparing fertile fields for the next round of increasingly ambitious projects. The Lubbock Parks and Recreation Department's List of Accomplishments (Appendix A) was included in this Master Plan to remind the citizens of Lubbock of what is possible, and what they are capable of achieving when they put their mind to something and speak with one . voice. Priority Implementation Projects The following list of improvements (Figure 6.1, Master Plan Priorities) reflect the City's highest priority projects, meaning they should be planned for incorporation into the annual capital budgeting process. As this plan matures, each of these projects will be further divided into individual projects with their requisite priorities. The Top 21 priority improvements to Lubbock's system of parks and recreation facilities include the following: -.. i, Hub City Dog Park Source: City of Lubbock f 6.11 f Lubbock Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan (2022) Figure 6.1: Master Plan Priorities Chapter 2, Lubbock's Parks • Partner with the private sector to provide adequate parkland in developing areas. (Strategy 1.1.3) • Enhance urban playa ecological function and visual character. (Strategy 1.2.1) • Adopt and phase -in an annual hiring program based on the planned projects and activities to be performed by the LPARD over the next five to 10 years, and beyond. (Strategy 1.3.2) • Develop an asset management program to address the full spectrum of parks and facilities operations and maintenance requirements. (Strategy 1.3.7) • Evaluate approaches to administering and managing the Meadowbrook Golf Course. (Strategy 1.4.7) Chapter 3, Sports and Athletic Facilities • Increase the number of playing fields to host larger tournaments. (Strategy 2.2.1) • Upgrade support amenities at sports complex facilities. (Strategy 2.2.3) Chapter 4, Indoor Recreation and Aquatics • Conduct a comprehensive feasibility analysis for developing a Recreation Center and associated Natatorium. (Strategy 3.3.1) • Develop a phased program to replace the City's swimming pools with splash pads. (Strategy 4.1.2) Chapter 5, Lubbock Lakes • Restore the unprogrammed open spaces within the Canyon Lakes system using native plant species associated with a Texas shortgrass prairie ecosystem. (Strategy 5.1.1) • Develop an effective program through which to manage invasive species, including the Black - Tailed Prairie Dog. (Strategy 5.1.2) • Implement Canyon Lakes structural (volume and conveyance) improvements. (Strategy 5.1.4) • Improve internal pedestrian circulation within the Canyon Lakes through the development of a hierarchy of active transportation facilities. (Strategy 5.2.2) • Develop a Canyon Lakes Blueways program. (Strategy 5.3.1) • Prepare a provisional land development plan for the Lake 7 Development Site. (Strategy 5.8.1) • Implement the following imrpovements at the Sam Wahl Recreation Area. • Implement an on-line campsite registration system at the Sam Wahl Recreation Area. (Strategy 5.9.1) • Improve the Sam Wahl Recreation Area's Entrance, including the Permit Office and Gate. (Strategy 5.9.2) • Improve the existing parking facility, boat launch, and marina at the Sam Wahl Recreation Area. (Strategy 5.9.3) • Develop and implement a park host program. (Strategy 5.9.9) • Construct additional RV campsites (Strategy 5.9.10) Chapter 6, Implementation • Establish a "Friends of Lubbock's Parks❑ Foundation. (Strategy 6.1.4) • Consider pursuing Parks and Recreation Department accreditation through the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). (Strategy 6.1.5) 6.12 Implementation Action Table The Lubbock Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan presents a series of actions that are essential to promoting the LPARD's parks and facilities enhancements, operations and maintenance strategies. The Implementation Action Table located on the following pages lists implementation activities according to goals and objectives, as laid -out in the Master Plan's chapters. Each action is prioritized to reflect when it should be initiated and the relationship between various actions is acknowledged where applicable. Project Initiation As illustrated in Figure 6.2, Implementation Timeframe, the level of prioritization (e.g., short-term, mid-term, and long-range) identified in the Implementation Action Table is intended as a decision -making guide, and generally reflects the order of priority in which projects should be implemented. Any Plan action may be initiated sooner than recommended if unique circumstances or opportunities arise. Implementation Actions Actions may be incorporated into one or more categories, as illustrated in Figure 6.3, Implementation Actions By Type. Displayed in the Implementation Action Table, for each goal, is the scheduled improvements for each of the existing parks. This same process should be completed for every new park that is created. The Implementation Action Plan has been divided into line -item improvements and organizes park development into the following types of actions needed to implement the project: • Capital Project, refers to whether the project will require capital resources to be implemented. If this column is checked then there should typically be an indiction of the order -of -magnitude cost, or whether more targeted planning will be required to determine the amount of capital required. • Partnerships and Coordination, refers to the need to establish partnerships and/or coordination with additional public or third -party (private, quasi -public, non-profit) entities in order to fully implement; • Policies and Programs, refers to the need to modify existing policies or draft new policies in support of the project; or whether a new programmatic framework needs tro be established, within which to establish the project. • Regulations and Standards, refers to the need for modifying existing regulations and/or standards in order to implmeent the project. • For those improvements that fall within the category, More Targeted Planning, there will be warrant for more detailed design and planning, resulting in the development of more definitive programming, scheduling, and budgeting; construction documentation and specifications, and detailed cost estimates; the professional (and City in -kind) services of which will then need to be folded -in to the Parks Department's, and ultimately the City's CIP. Figure 6.2, Implementation Timeframe ONGOING Actions which may apply to the entire planning period, or which may occur incrementally or on a recurring basis. 1 1 SHORT-TERM Actions to be initiated within the next 1 to 3 years (2022 - 2026) although completion may extend across a larger timeframe. 1 MID-TERM Actions which may be initiated within the next 3 to 10 years (2027 - 2032). Initiation may depend in part on the completion of short-term priorities. 1 LONG-TERM Actions that are projected to be implemented beyond 10 years and require the completion of multiple preceding activities. 6.13 k Action Leaders The Implementation Action Table also suggests responsible agencies who should lead each initiative and identifies partnering agencies who can assist in implementation. The LPARD will be the primary administrator of this Master Plan. Methods of Plan implementation, administration, monitoring, amendment, and associated partnerships are discussed beginning on page 6.3. Figure 6.3, Implementation Actions By Type Image resembling the landscape of the Lubbock Lake Landmark area and the Llano Estacado around 1540, when Captain Francisco Vasquez de Coronado first explored West Texas Source: Lubbock Economic Development Alliance �.� 5 � �J. Project Costs Project costs, if applicable, are preliminary, and reflect order of magnitude estimates for park and recreational facility -related improvement projects. For those improvements that fall within the category, "More Targeted Planning;" there will be warrant for more detailed design and planning, resulting in the development of more definitive programming, scheduling, and budgeting; construction documentation and specifications, and detailed cost estimates; the professional (and City in -kind) services of which will then need to be folded -in to the LPARD's, and ultimately the City's Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). J; Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University c � m� Q p Y C N N N i0 O -O i 2: (Mn E a 6 bA } O } Q O " 0 bW 0 O m m U d U a s AiiiiiiLon Type &&66 OM Objective equitable distribution of • -• and accessible parks,• open spaces • • •community. rategy 1.1.1: Prioritize parklan acquisition that increases the percentage of residents 1. Continue to work with the development community in developing an equitable arrangement whereby parkland is X X X LPARD allocated within new residential subdivisions. 2. Continue to work with the Water Department to identify specific overflow and nonoverflow playas within and outside of developing areas that could support the dual function of X X X LPARD, LWD providing urban drainage infrastructure and needed open space for recreational facilities. 3. Identify publicly -owned land (e.g., utilities and drainage infrastructure rights -of -way and easements) that may support recreational trails which could provide enhanced X X X LPARD, LED access and connectivity from points of origin to key destinations. 4. Focus on partnerships with the three ISDs in the Lubbock area whereby school facilities and/or property is made LPARD, available to accommodate local residents' desire for local X X X FISD, LISD, --- recreational activity. LCISD 5. Develop a "Friends of Lubbock's Parks" foundation, the powers and authorities of which would include the ability to be bequeathed land for future parks, and the ability to X X X X LPARD, LLD purchase land on behalf of the City. of recreational rategy 1.1.2: Provide equitable distribution facilities and amenities VIMI throuf4hout the City. 1. Utilize NRPA facilities and equipment standards as a 'back -of -the -napkin' point of departure for evaluating the X X X LPARD geographic distribution of recreational facilities. 2. Continue to utilize regional comparison community information to inform the provision of facilities. X X LPARD 3. During the next Master Plan Update, conduct an Equity - based Assessment of parks and recreational facilities to determine squitable distribution of facilities and the X LPARD consistent application of operations and maintenance practices in the management of the City's parks. 6.15 Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University 0 m � U � (6 a i i U N C .0 LN : (n C N a� 1� y f6 a n c N E ° i on bA i O + o U by C CM C M O � m O m U aU O IL MU) o m 20- - N Order of Project Action Magnitud Initiation Action Type jilk Leaders Costs .3: Pa h the private sector to pr reas. 1. Continue to work with the West Texas Builders Association to determine an equitable arrangement for the dedication LPARD, X X X of open space and provision of recreational facilities in WTBA developing residential areas. . a walking access to p eighborhood and subdivision in the city. ith Lubbock Street Department toensureng 7ntersen and pedestrian signals at all street X X X X X LPARD, djacent to neighborhood and community parks. LSD 2. Coordinate with Lubbock Street Department to ensure that sidewalks and street crossings adjacent to all parks are ADA- X X X X X LPARD, compliant. LSD Objective Improve . ..ical function and environmental of Lubbock'sparks. trategy 1.2.1: Enhance urban playa ecological function and visuALiparacier. pwr 1. Identify a park with a playa that can be used to demonstrate the playa restoration techniques. Utilize one TX X X X LPARD, TBD LED, LWD concrete drainage culvert to demonstrate the technique 2.2: Refer to Master Plan, page 2.45 for contact information X X LPARD TBD 1. Develop tree planting plans for each of Lubbock's parks. X X LPARD --- 2. Improve user comfort through planting groves of trees in X X parks to serve as windbreaks. LPARD --- 3. Re-evaluate the current locations of park pavilions, picnic tables and park benches and relocate as necessary so they X X X X LPARD TBD are within shaded areas of the park. 4. Partner with Texas Tech University's School of Engineering X X X X to engage students to plant trees in Lubbock's parks. LPARD --- 5. Work with the Lubbock Memorial Arboretum Foundation to promote the City's'Tree City USA' designation and X X X ensure that park enhancements contribute to fulfilling the LPARD --- requirements of designation. 6. Align the City's Tree City USA Community Forestry Program and associated capital resources with planting X X X X LPARD TBD additional trees in the City's parks. 7. Promote the planting of trees in City parks on Arbor Day. X X X X LPARD --- 8. Pursue technical and capital resources through the USDA Forest Service' Urban and Community Forestry Program, X X X X as administered by the Texas A&M Forest Service (https:// LPARD --- tfsweb.tamu.edu/). IM1130 Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts m LCMO LBK City Manager's Office 2 2- 2 _0 N LED LBK Engineering Dept. (n ° t '� N o b.0 LFD LBK Finance Dept. c a `n c m E -2bn .E LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. �D m + o 0 0 : 'o m LSD LBK Street Dept. DAm 1PKWaterDe r Q IL M U d U o- a 01- U) a TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University "ject Order of Magnitude Costs g. Contact the Texas A&M Forest Service's West Texas Nursery in Idalou, Texas to determine the availability of X X X LPARD --- trees for planting in the City's parks. 10. Establish an, "Adopt -a -Tree;' public -private partnership program, where by private and other third- X X X X LPARD party entities maintain specific trees and/or groves of trees in the City's parks. 11. Pursue corporate sponsorships for the purchase X X X X LPARD --- and planting of trees in the City's parks. 12. Continue to convene meetings of the LPARD's X X LPARD --- Community Forestry Task Force. 1. When working with community groups in planting groves of trees and shrub massings, prepare the depressed planting areas prior to planting. Do not X X X X LPARD --- create bowls around the base of the newly planted trees. After planting, stabilize the area with grass seed or mulch, as appropriate. 2. Revise the City of Lubbock's Minimum Design Standards and Specifications (May 01, 2020) to X X X LPARD, include micro -detention techniques for landscape LED enhancements in parks and around public facilities. Strategy 1.2.5: Incorporate low impact development techniques into all parks and City -owned and maintained fa!�Lities. 1. Revise the City of Lubbock's Minimum Design Standards and Specifications (May 01, 2020) to X X X LPARD, include low impact development techniques for LED parking lots, drainage corridors, and other areas. Strategy 1.2.6: Incorporate educational displays and signage to explain the ecological functions of park elements. 1. As projects near completion, hire an interpretive planner to prepare infographics through which X X X LPARD TBD to interpret how improvements relate to overall ecological systems. 2. Prepare infographics and interpretive signage for X X X LPARD TBD dscape enhancements (refer page 2.48). i 1. Identify a park that could be used to demonstrate a new prairie aesthetic, utilizing perennials, forbs, and X X LPARD TBD grasses native to the Llano Estacado. 2. Grade the new prairie areas to capture and collect stormwater runoff. As summarized in the low impact X X LPARD TBD development sidebar, utilize micro -detention techniques to naturally irrigate plantings. 6.17 Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University m U (6 i i U N C .0 LN : C N a� 1� y f6 a Ln c (n N E i on bA C i M O + O m O U by O C CM o m 0 � m U aU IL MU) 20- Project Action Order of Magnitude Costs -Strategy 1.3.1: Refine operations -based metrics to establish optimal operations and maintenance thresholds. Refine operations -based metrics to establish optimal operations hmomi maint ance thresholds. 1. Establish relationships with Regional Comparison Communities' parks and recreation departments to learn more about and corroborate departmental administration, X X X LPARD TBD operations and maintenance best practices which may be applicable to parks management in Lubbock. 2. Accompanied by LPARD administrative and maintenance staff, tour Regional Comparison Communities' parks and recreational facilities to further establish uniform and X X X X LPARD TBD quantifiable standards of quality in parks operations and maintenance. 3. Continue to expand Regional Comparison Communities database through the inclusion of additional communities with X X X X LPARD --- Quality of Life indices similar to Lubbuck. gram based on the planned projects trategy 1.3.2: Adopt and phase -in an annual hiring nd activities to be performed by the LPARD over the next five to 10 years, and beyond. 1. Establish a policy whereby with all parks and facility improvements and additions ensure that there is a TX X X X 11 LPARD TBD corresponding increase in full-time maintenance staff. X X X X X X X 2. With the development of the LPARD's asset management program, hire a Cartegraph technical operator. LPARD TBD 3. Consider establishing an LPARD Horticulture Team. X LPARD TBD 4. Consider additional staff required to administer, implement, and manage Lake Alan Henry's Sam Wahl Recreation Area, X X X X X LPARD TBD LPARD Aquatics Program, and Prairie Dog eradication. 14M Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts m LCMO LBK City Manager's Office 2 2- 2 -0 N LED LBK Engineering Dept. (n ° t '� o b.0 LFD LBK Finance Dept. c a `n c m E -2bn .E LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. �D m + o 0 0 : 'o m LSD LBK Street Dept. Q IL M U d U a s Of U) a LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation Order of TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. Project Action Magnitude TTU Texas Tech University Initiation Action Type Costs J 5. Increase Maintenance staff by two (2) FTEs per X X LPARD TBD district. 6. With improvements to Lake Alan Henry's Sam Wahl Recreation Area, increase staff by at least one (1) FTE X X LPARD TBD (refer to Chapter 5, Lubbock's Lakes, Objective 5.9, page 5.79). 7. Improvements associated with McAlister Park will X X LPARD TBD include additional dedicated maintenance FTEs. 8. With improvements to sports and athletic fields, increase the Athletic Field Services crew by two (2) X X LPARD TBD FTEs (refer to Chapter 3, Sports and Athletic Fields). 9. With improvements to the LPARD's Aquatics program will require additional DTEs, the number X X LPARD TBD remains to be determined. X X LPARD TBD X X LPARD TBD X X LPARD TBD t 10. Consider establishing a Horticulture Team. 11. Consider establishing a Litter Control Team. 12. Consider establishing a Prairie Dog Eradication Team (7 FTEs). I trategy 1.3.Develop a series of demonstration parks to showcase best ramcilities operations and maintananra practices IL 1. Use Aztlan Park as Council District 1 as a demonstration park. Assess the park's irrigation X X LPARD TBD � 7 system to determine needed improvements. 2. Develop defensible demonstration park selection criteria. Consider utilizing parks that have recently X received facility upgrades, including new playgrounds and/ortrails. _ Strategy 1.3.4: Encourage the formation of volu efforts at parks. 1. Contact the Friends of McAlister Park to more fully understand the purpose and conditions under which X the organization was formed. 2. Consider alternative organizational structures for a "Friends of organization, which could augment the responsibilities of the LPARD, and may include X landscape sitework enhancements such as tree planting, litter control, park events programming, etc. 1. Contact TxDOT to learn about their administration of its Adopt -a -Highway program. X I X I LPARD --- r organizations to help with beautification X X X D's Adopt -a -Park prog X X X LPARD X LPARD, LLD X LPARD, TxDOT Mel Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University 0 m � U � (6 a i i U N C .0 LN : (n C N a� 1� y f6 o n c N E ° i on bA i O + O U by C CM C M O � m O m U aU O IL MU) o m 20- - N Order of Project Action Magnitude Initiation Action Type Leaders Costs %trate y s ablish a City-wide maintenance policy for municipal grounds and facilities outside of the jurisdiction of the LPARD. 1. Work with the Office of the City Manager, Legal Department, and Finance Department to formulate a policy whereby municipal departments and agencies utilize third- X X X LPARD, LCMO, LLD party maintenance companies for maintenance of facilities and grounds. Strategy 1.3.7: Develop an asset management program to address the full spectrum of parks and fnrilitiac nnavatinnc and maintananra rani dramantc 1. As park facilities and equipment are replaced, evaluate the current location and determine appropriateness. Consider X X X relocating facilities and equipment to improve user comfort LPARD --- and accessibility. X X X 2. Migrate GIS-based park conditions assessment into City's X Cartegraph program. LPARD 3. Link photographs of park elements to geolocated points. X X X LPARD --- 'es an,'--- - Develop a Park Standards Manual. A park standards 7 manual establishes minimum design, construction, and X X X X LPARD, LED performance expectations for the City's park furnishings, equipment, and amenities. 2. Incorporate Park Standards Manual into City of Lubbock Engineering Minimum Design Standards and Specifications X X X X LPARD, LED --- manual (May 01, 2020). X 3. Input Park Standards Manual specifications into the X X LPARD --- LPARD's Asset Management Program. ra egy .9: Develop a Maintenance Manual Tor all parks, open space and equipment areas, acuities dminister ained by the DADrl 1. Include a general weatherization schedule applicable to all X X X X parks, facilities and equipment. LPARD --- 2. Include seasonal planting and rotation of annual plantings. X X X X LPARD --- 3. Include LPARD equipment maintenance activities and X X X X schedule, Fleet vehicles, and equipment with small engines. LPARD --- 4. Input Maintenance Manual activities and schedule into the X X LPARD's Asset Management Program. LPARD --- 5. Refer to the "Developing a Maintenance Program and Plan" section (page 287), within the NRPA publication, X X X X LPARD --- "Management of Park and Recreation Agencies;" 4th edition, M. Moiseichik (ed.), 2016. WK Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts m LCMO LBK City Manager's Office 2 2- p -0 N LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. (n c ° t '� o bb.0 a `n c m Ebn LLD LBK Legal Dept. o .E 'o LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. m + o 0 o aWi m LSD LBK Street Dept. Q M U d U a s Of U) a LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation Order of TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. Project Action Magnitude TTU Texas Tech University Initiation Action Type Leaders Costs . vide LPARD Maintenance staff opportunities to advance their training and improve important skill sets. 11L- 1. Review the educational programs offered by the NRPA, the Southwest Park and Recreation Training Institute, including the 2023 Park Planning and X X X X X LPARD, Maintenance Academy (PPMA) to improve staff training LCMO, LFD and certification in key areas of park operations and maintenance. Strategy 1.3.11: Consider add, re c entives for maintenance staff. 1. Work with City of Lubbock's Human Resources Department to consider elevating staff compensation X X X X X LPARD, levels and other potential incentives, such as signing TBD LCMO, LFD bonuses, to attract and retain potential candidates. 2. Provide clear pathways for advancement within the X X LPARD, LPARD. I LCMO, LFD Strategy 1.3.12: Utilize th n's Park Con ' ' n Assessment to prioritize pa improvements. 1. As LPARD staff make routine visits to parks ground truth the Park Conditions Assessment scoring to X X X LPARD --- make sure staff is in agreement with scores and they adequately reflect actual conditions. 2. Utilize the Park Conditions Assessment to prioritize improvements to park facilities. Park facilities that X X X LPARD --- have received a score of 1.0 should be addressed immediately. 3. Work with the City's Engineering and Water Department to prioritize improvements to park X X X X LPARD, X TBD LED, LWD drainage infrastructure, including concrete culverts. 4. Include the LPARD's Park Playground Inspection Report and playground condition scoring into the Park X X X LPARD --- Conditions Assessment. 5. With improvements to park facilities and equipment revise the numerical score in the Park Conditions X X LPARD --- Assessment. Strategy 1.3.13: Continue to implement the LPARD's playground replacement program. 1. Develop a playground replacement program and budget whereby at least two "F" rated playgrounds are replaced each year, and remedial treatments are provided for playgrounds with a "C" rating in order to extent their lifespan while the playgrounds with a low "D" rating are replaced. X I I I X I I X X LPARD 6.21 Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. 0 m � U � (6 a i i U N C .0 LN : C N a� y f6 a In c (n N E ° i on bA C i M O + O m O U by O C CM o m O � m U aU IL MU) 20- -! Order of Project Action Magnitude TTU Texas Tech University lijiMI&pe Leaders Costs 2. Update the LPARD Park Playground Inspection Report on an annual basis in order to track the rate of playground degradation, and subsequent ratings. Provide prioritization X 7 X X X rationale for either remedial treatment or replacement of LPARD --- as many of the worst playgrounds as the LPARD budget will allow. 3. Log playground replacements into the City's Cartegraph X X X --- asset management program. LPARD 4. Provide a LPARD maintenance staff member with the requisite training from the NRPA or equivalent program, to X X X X LPARD TBD become a Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI). 1. The Public Works Department is constructing a new facility on the south side of the City. There may be an opportunity to X X X LPARD, LED --- allocate some space for the LPARD. 2. The LPARD's electrical crew is currently based out of the Clapp Park maintenance facility. Consider areas and facilities X X X where they may be able to locate so they can have their own LPARD --- facility. 6.22 Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TD\AIM TV Dn.l.n ....A \A1;1A1;f.. fl....t m U N (D O U) C Q O _0 fN N bbA i f6 d N N � .2 -6 bn 3 )} m a� a a� m M bA } O + O b " 8Q.n O U dU° aa �n 2a r— ml Order of rroject TTU Texas Tech University Initiation r+cuon iwagniivae Leaders Costs Objective 11A Enhance visitor experience through expanded parks programming. rategy 1.4.1: Analyse how parks and facilities are used. 1. Work with Texas Tech University Department of Landscape Architecture faculty and students to develop a replicable behavior mapping program to record the number of park users and their tendencies, X X X X LPARD, TTU --- with respect to park area preferences (where people went) and the facilities used (and not used) during different times of the day, and one different days. 2. Approach park users with a set of express survey questions to better understand user preferences X X X LPARD ... and what additional programmatic features may be included in parks. 3. Re -program and maintain recreational facilities and park spaces based on feedback from periodic X X X X X LPARD TBD surveys disseminated through social media and at park facilities. Strateg .4.2: Ensure that Lubbock's parks and open space areas are designed and maintained to accommodate the recreational interests of all ages and demographics. —L—V 1. Ensure that recreational facilities cater to the passive and active needs of all demographic sectors of the X X X X LPARD TBD community, including young people not involved in team sports, and senior citizens. Stodegy 1 : Co rams and facilities 1. Survey all park and trail facilities to check for compliance with ADA standards, especially those with X X X X LPARD --- uneven surfaces, spaces between paved and unpaved areas, and convenient access to seating. 2. All efforts should be made to bring all facilities, including active amenities (sports courts and fields), passive recreational amenities (concession stands, X X X X LPARD TBD benches, seating areas, picnic areas, playgrounds, bathrooms) up to ADA standards of accessibility. 3. To ensure that there is an equitable distribution of facilities, the LPARD should construct at least one fully X X X X X LPARD TBD inclusive playground in a neighborhood or community park in each City Council District. 4. Include adaptive recreational programming and facilities in all programs and events offered by the X X X X X LPARD TBD LPARD. 5. Consider hiring appropriately trained staff to design and deliver recreational program offerings for children X X X X LPARD TBD with special needs. 6.23 Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTI 1 T... __ T.... I.. I I..:..___:- 0 m � U � (6 a N i i U N C L .0 : (n C N a� >� y f6 a n c N E ° i on bA i O + O U bA C CM C M O � m O m U aU O IL MU) o m 20- - N Order of Project Action Magnitude " Y Initiation Action Type JbIgers Costs mq L.a network of Wi-Fi hotsp 1. To determine feasibility, identify and research case studies X X X X X LPARD TBD of cities that have Wi-Fi hotspots in parks. 2. Identify a viable demonstration park, such as Clapp Park or X X X X TBD Higinbotham Park, within which to test the Wi-Fi concept. LPARD 3. Monitor demonstration park to determine degree of X X X X LPARD TBD additional use it receives. fL Research story book pedestal -mounted exhibit frames for a story book trail. The company, Pannier, has created a low- X X X X LPARD TBD profile, StoryWalk® exhibit system for story book trails. .4. Continue r the dev - radI Zonal sports 1. Continue to follow sports and recreational trends to determine people's recreational interests and plan X X X X LPARD--- accordingly. 2. As sports activities become more popular and organized, meet with local sports club leadership and determine what X X X X X LPARD TBD kinds of facilites are needed to actively facilitate and promote participation in the recreational activity the Meadowbrook Golf trategy 1.4.7: Evaluate approaches to administering and managing ourse. I Develop a master plan for the facility. Partner with a golf urse architect to determine the feasibility of landscape X X X X X X LPARD TBD and structure enhancements to the course as well as identify associated costs for improvements. 2. Determine the future operations following the end of the current lease in 2025. LPARD should consider the option to X X X X X X LPARD --- operate the facility in-house or hire a management company. 3. Install a new irrigation system and pump house. X X X X LPARD TBD 4. Improve the overall look of the facility by installing landscape enhancements around the building that is easy to X X X X X LPARD TBD maintain, doesn't require irrigation, and is colorful. 5. Repair and update all structures on the property including the clubhouse, maintenance facility, and golf car storage X X X X LPARD TBD building to ensure they meet current quality and safety standards. [elm Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University m U N (D O U) C Q O _0 fN N bbA i f6 d N N � .2 -6 bn 3 )} m a� a a� m M bA } O cn c + O Q. i O U W o bA m O I m U dU a°a �c"n 2a Project {A4V,Y I-.. -lullIM�.r I.V ML111 1. Partner with the City's Water Department to identify overflow and non -overflow playas that could serve the X X X X LPARD, dual function of providing drainage infrastructure and LWD open space for recreational amenities. :rategy 1.5.2: Utilize drainage and utilities transmission corridors to support enhanced :cess and connectivity to recreational �s. 1. Partner with the City's Water Department and other public and quasi -public utility providers to utilize drainage and utilities transmission rights -of -way X and easements which may serve the dual function of providing enhanced access and connectivity to recreational areas. X X X LPARD, LWID Strategy 1.5.3: Develop a network of off-street, multi -use, active transportation l,Vrridor!kthroug1',.,-1++ho Q+., „f I � �bbock. Order of Magnitude Costs 1. Partner with the City of Lubbock's Engineering Services, Utilities, and Water Departments to determine under what conditions utilities easements X X X X LPARD, LED, LWD and rights -of -way can be utilized for active transportation corridors. 2. Approach Lubbock Power and Light, South Plains Electric Cooperative, inc., and other utility providers to determine the conditions upon which the LPARD X X X X LPARD --- can utilize their transmission rights -of -way for active transportation corridors. Strategy 1.5.4: Execute an interlocal agreement with Lubbock's ISDs for the use of creational facilities afterkchool hou 1. Develop an interlocal agreement with with Frenship i ISD (FISD) for the public's use of FISD's indoor X X X X X LPARD, ISD --- gymnasium. 2. Develop an interlocal agreement with with Lubbock ISD (LISD) for the public's use of LISD's aquatics X X X X X facilities. Additional agreements with other ISDs, such as Lubbock Cooper ISD, should be considered. Strategy 1.5.5: Partner with Lubbock's Independent School Districts (I develop a city-wide SPARK program. 1. Partner with Lubbock ISD, Frenship ISD, and Lubbock -Cooper ISD to develop parks on ISD property X X X X X X LPARD, ISD which the LPARD will maintain. LPARD, ISD --- TBD Me"I Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University 0 m � U � (6 a i i U N C .0 LN : C N a� y f6 a n c (n N E ° i on bA i C M O + O m o U by O C CM o m O � m U aU IL MU) 20- Project Action Initiation Action Type Leaders to lize Lubbock's parks to showcase and exhibit public art. 1. LPARD should partner with the Lubbock Arts Alliance to identify and implement ways that parkland can be utilized to showcase permanent art, semi -permanent X X X X X X LPARD art, art events / markets, artist commissions, and community center collaborations. 2. Consider dedicating sculptures in Lubbock parks. Cement sculpture platforms could be constructed to feature semi -permanent sculptures in prominent X X X X X X LPARD area of parks. Trailheads, performances pavilions, and community centers can also be utilized as prominent locations for sculpture. Order of Magnitude Costs TBD = Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts m U m C LCMO LBK City Manager's Office °� a o m LED LBK Engineering Dept. (n ° t ' � C N o � ono d LFD LBK Finance Dept. c c N E + m S0 % °� m -a 'E LLD LBK Legal Dept. O ;° u � b.0�_ bb LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. + m o 0 0 o m O LSD LBK Street Dept. O � m U 0- U 0- a- of U) 2 a LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation Order of TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. Magnitude TTU Texas Tech University 1• quality of •• game and practice fieldsfor •cal residents to use them. rate 2.1.1: Provide equitable and accessible distribution of s orts facilities. 1. Increase the number of practice fields throughout the X �� X X X LPARD TBD City, particularly within the interior of Loop 289. » Add backstops and play areas within the existing parks X X X X LPARD TBD throughout the City » Require developers to construct a backstop, and a minimum 1/4 acre play open plan area within all -new neighborhood X X X LPARD --- parks, whether City -owned or HOA administered » Explore the potential partnerships of inter -local agreements with ISDs and third -party parks/open space operators to X X X X LPARD --- provide access to athletic fields and support facilities 2. Explore the location of practice and game fields along LPARD TBD alternative transportation routes. fields and courts designat trategy 2.1.2: Provide high -quality recreat'N athletic Tor 7:2 general public use. 1. Formulate and initiate a quality control/maintenance work plan outlining service standards for facility maintenance X X X X LPARD --- levels. 2. Replace chain link netting at tennis and volleyball courts X X LPARD $100,000 where existing nets are damaged or rusted. 3. All game and practice areas for general recreational use should be accompanied by field area lights X X X X X LPARD TBD » Where appropriate, these fixtures will be LED lighting. 4. Parking areas that support these practice field areas should also have light standards to allow for ambient X X X X LPARD TBD lighting as people move from playing on the fields/courts to getting to their vehicles. 5. Resurface/replace cracked sports courts » Sports court amenities (including tennis courts, basketball courts, and hard -surfaced volleyball courts) shall be X X X X X LPARD $200,000 prioritized for replacement or resurfacing so that their intended use can be used for recreational in a safe and intended manner. 6. Foster a working relationship with the Lubbock Police LPARD, Department and regular patrol patterns to discourage X X X X LPD unwanted activity in the park. Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University 0 m � U � (6 a i i U N C .0 LN : (n C N a� y f6 a n c N E ° i on bA i O + U bA C CM C M O � m O m U 0 aU O IL MU) o m 20- - N Order of Project Action Magnitude Initiation Action Type Leaders Costs Stra.1.3: Ensure a standard level of quality in the operations and maintenance of the local game and practice fields. 1. Formulate and Initiate a quality control/maintenance work X X LPARD --- plan in conjunction with Strategy 2.1.2, Action 1. Objective Position the City of •••ck's sports comptexesto draw more-• • • state tournaments. Strate .:Increase the num of playing fields to host la tourna im 1. Identify where other sports complexes can be located and where existing facilities can be upgraded to meet tournament X X X X LPARD --- standards. Add a complex of 4-8 fields for Diamond Baseball, Youth X X X X X $9,150,000- LPARD $18,300,000 Provide sports field lighting at the teen/adult field at the Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex for Diamond X X X X LPARD $350,000 Baseball, Teen Upgrade the four fields at the Blue Quad of the Thomas A. Martin Youth Sports Complex to turf for Diamond Softball, X X X X LPARD $3,050,000 Girls Fast Pitch Upgrade the four softball fields at the Berl Huffman Athletic Sports Complex to turf for Diamond Softball, Adult and Diamond Softball, Girls Fast Pitch; the outfields may be X X X X LPARD $5,400,000 configured at this facility too to accommodate Rectangle Fields, Flag Football Provide sports field lighting for the seven fields at the Berl X X X X LPARD $1,400,000 Huffman Athletic Sports Complex for Rectangle Fields, Soccer Add a 16 court facilityfor Pickleball; X X X X X LPARD $20,000,000- $25,000,000 Re -stripe tennis courts at the Burgess: Rushing Tennis X X X X LPARD $100,000 Complex Strate 1. Develop and implement the incremental upgrade of playing X surfaces to synthetic turf. LPARD TBD 2. Switch responsibility of daily field maintenance to the City (from sports association -based responsibilities). Complete an Operations and Maintenance Plan for all tournament fields (whether turf fields or grass fields). X X X X X LPARD --- Build appropriate maintenance dollars into the Parks and Recreation Budget for the City to maintain the fields to tournament level quality. INMV Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University 1. Provide improved (paved) parking at each sports facility. 2. Upgrade sports field lighting to LED lighting. Light cut-off, energy efficiency, and ease of startup are all reasons for the upgrade to LED lighting. 3. Provide shade pavilions and trees at each sports facility. Shade is a premium, especially in West Texas. 4. Provide concessions, restrooms, and spaces for food truck staging. 5. Provide Wi-Fi infrastructure at each of the sports complexes. 6. Include art components and aesthetic enhancements at each facility. 7. Include playgrounds interior to all sports complexes. m H y U a) (n C O Q O 70 N \ L bbb `n to N a- a C m E C y -2M } + m aa) o a) as -2 u un m o 0 �o :Lo d O m U dU a°a 0-1 U) Project Initiation Action Type ies at sports complex facilities. X x x x x x x x a) W on o ns � a Order of Action Magnitude Leaders Costs TBD TBD $820,000 $5,000,000 TBD TBD Strategy 2.2.4: Optimize the efforts of "Lubbock Sports" as part of the Lubbock Economic Development Alliance to market and fund City of Lubbock sports tournament opportunities. 1. Advocate for the including a City Parks Department x representative on the Lubbock Sports. 2. Allocate partial hotel/motel tax monies towards the x upgrades in the City of Lubbock sports facilities. 3. Measure the impact. The more economic dollars that can be tied to sports tournaments, the more continual x investment the City has in the future. 4. Tell the story and market the excellent tournament facilities the City of Lubbock has to offer through social x media campaigns and outreach. $1,300,000 1=011 Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University 0 m � U � (6 a i i U N C .0 LN : C N a� y f6 a In c (n N E i on bA i C M O + O m O U by O C CM o m O � m U aU IL MU) 20- Order of Project Magnitude Initiation Action Tv Costs Strategy 2.3.1: Offer an increased variety and availability of recreational sports programs throughout the City. 1.Establish a Youth Athletics Coordinator Position on the LPARD staff to organize and administer youth athletics X X X LPARD programs within the Parks Department. Strategy 2.3.2: Expand the City's inventory of indoor recreation facilities date numerous athletic programs. 1. Provide multi -use, full -court gym space to host basketball X X and volleyball activities. 2. Provide an indoor swimming venue. X X 3. Furnish and design future recreation centers with small and large flexible indoor spaces for group sports recreation X X activities and training classes (aerobics, spin classes, weight training, etc.) TBD 11111,211111 TBD Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts o m LCMO LBK City Manager's Office °) a o N LED LBK Engineering Dept. N i i t m o LFD LBK Finance Dept. c M c (n E h0 LLD LBK Legal Dept. 0 LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. 17+ a o p tw m LSD LBK Street Dept. O m ci a U a° a of in LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation Order of TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. tion Magnitude M M TTU Texas Tech University r—+� • Strategy 3.1.1: Prepare renovation/expansion plans for community centers and adult tivity centers. 1. Conduct feasibility analyses for expanding each community center and adult activity center; in order to X X X LPARD $15-30,000 per determine whether the existing facility is structurally sound center and accommodate expansion. 2. Develop a provisional program for facility expansion to determine specific equipment/space required to X X X X X LPARD ... accommodate new offerings. 3. Develop a space plan for each facility depicting how interior spaces will function and where storage space will be X X X X X LPARD $5.10,000 per center located. 4. Prepare expansion/renovation budgets and schedules X X X X LPARD, $5-10,000 per based on funding availability. LED center 5. When considering expansion options for the Lubbock Adult Activity Center, contact the Lubbock ISD to determine whether there may be opportunities to expand into the X X X X LPARD, adjacent Dupree Elementary School parking lot and/or open LISD space area, as the school is being repurposed to serve as a resource center for the ISD. 6. Evaluate the feasibility and value of renovating the Dunbar Manhattan Heights Neighborhood Association Meeting House to function as a meeting facility that local groups X X X X X LPARD, could rent. Meet with northeast Lubbock neighborhood LED associations to determine whetherthere is a need for a community meeting facility. 1=1 Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University 0 m � U � (6 a i i U N C .0 LN : (n C N a� y f6 a n c N E i on bA i O + U by C CM C M O � m O m U 0 aU O IL MU) o m 20- - N Order of Project Action Magnitude Initiation Action Type Leaders Costs rategy 3.1.�ioritize the following building renovations to the City's community eA"nters and adult activity c rs. 1. Copper Rawlings Community Center --- Expand the kitchen facility to include more counter space X X X X LPARD, LED 7 --- TBD Install a step at entrance where food is delivered X X X X LPARD, LED TBD 2. Hodges Community Center --- --- Install ADA-compliant doors throughout the facility X X X X LPARD, LED TBD Provide additional tables in Chapel X X LPARD $100/table 3. Lubbock Adult Activity Center --- --- Repair vans (2) and schedule additional field trips X X X X X LPARD TBD Determine under what conditions the facility to open on Saturdays X X X X LPARD TBD 4. Mae Simmons Community Center Improved, more reliable Internet connection Strategy 3.1.3: Schedule and budget the following community centers and adult activity centers. 1. Copper Rawlings Community Center » Remodel and renovate all of the interior rooms within the facility X X X X LPARD to the City's --- X X LPARD --- $1,000/yr --- building renovations X X X TBD Develop more storage space X X X X X LPARD TBD 2. Hodges Community Center --- --- Expand building to include a larger kitchen X X X X X LPARD, LED TBD Construct a pottery room for the two existing kilns X X X X X X LPARD, LED TBD 3. Lubbock Adult Activity Center --- --- Construct anew crafting room X X X X X X LPARD TBD Construct more storage space X X X X X LPARD TBD 4. Mae Simmons Community Center --- --- Construct an additional multi -purpose room for teens X X X X X LPARD TBD 6. Maxey Community Center --- --- Remodel rooms and expand the facility footprint to include additional rooms X X X X X X LPARD, LED TBD Expand building to include additional storage space. X X X X X LPARD, LED TBD MN Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University m U N (D O U) C Q O _0 fN N bbA i f6 d N N � .2 -6 bn 3 )} m a� a a� m M bA } O cn c + O Q- O ;= u W o bA m O I m U 0-U a°0- �c"n 2a Project Initiation Action Type Order of Action Magnitude Leaders Costs Sty 3.1.de landscape enhancements, facilities, and furnishings improvements to expand exterior recreational p ming at community centers and adult activity centers. 1. Copper Rawlings Community Center X X $750 per tree » Plant additional trees around both centers to provide X X additional shade. X X $1,000 per » Provide benches (4) outside the Adult Activity Center so X X senior citizens don't have to sit in folding chairs. bench » Repair surface of tennis courts so they do not hold water and drain. Restripe the courts so they can X X X X X LPARD TBD function as pickleball courts. » Consider providing exterior exercise equipment, as at X X X X TBD Maxey Community Center. 2. Hodges Community Center --- Install a full-sized basketball court. X X X X X LPARD $50,000 » Install a preschool playground. X X X X X LPARD $25,000 » Provide more outdoor seating areas. X X X X LPARD TBD » Identify a good location for covered and screened X X X X LPARD TBD dumpsters. 3. Mae Simmons Community Center - » Install a full-sized basketball court with covered pavilion X X X X X LPARD $75,000 » Repair surface of tennis courts. Restripe the courts so X X X X LPARD TBD they can function as pickleball courts. » Construct an exterior patio with pergola, benches (4) X X X X LPARD TBD and picnic tables (4) outside of the Adult Activity Center. » Provide picnic tables (4) outside of the Community X X X X $2,000 ($500 Center. LPARD each) » Plant additional trees around both centers to provide X X X X LPARD $750 per tree additional shade. » Consider providing exterior exercise equipment, as at X X X X LPARD TBD Maxey Community Center. 4. Maxey Community Center - » Demolish concrete volleyball and half basketball courts. X X X LPARD TBD ra egy .. onstruct at least two additional community centers wi combined adult activity centers to accommodate growth and demand for the centers in south and west -central Lubbock. 1. When considering the location for the proposed community and adult activity centers, refer to Map 4.1, Community Centers and Aquatic Facilities, to X X X X LPARD TBD determine the areas of greatest population density and growth. 1=4 193 Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU T T h U 0 m � U � (6 a i i U N C .0 : C N a� N y f6 a L Ln c (n N E ° i on bA C i M O + O m O U bA O C CM o m O � m U aU IL MU) 20- -! Order of Project Action Magnitude exas ec niversity ALtiation Action Type Leaders Costs mAmk activity centers sion. 1. To increase the use of the City's community centers, consider adding an inclusive children's playgrounds and X X X X X LPARD TBD outdoor fitness equipment at each center, including the Lubbock Adult Activity Center. 2. Consider providing additional physical activity programs, exercise classes, and/or fitness training (e.g., walking X X X X LPARD TBD programs, yoga classes, personal training, sports leagues). 3. Consider providing opportunities to volunteer in community X X X LPARD --- centers. 4. Ensure the messaging and promotional materials on display in community center facilities assures all community members that they are welcome. Aim to use people first X X X LPARD --- language; for example, "a person with a disability" versus "a disabled person:' Strategy 3.1 1Illllllllllllllp1 programming With p nior citi 1. Work with Lubbock's ISDs to develop intergenerational learning programs involving interested members of the City's X X X X LPARD, ISD --- adult activity centers. 2. Have adult activity center seniors host a special event X X X X LPARD --- involving children at an adult activity center. X X X X --- 3. Arrange for an ISD student club to perform or sing at an LPARD, ISD adult activity center. 4. Invite members of adult activity centers who are veterans to speak at a school or community Remembrance Day X X X X LPARD, ISD --- ceremony. X --- 5. Invite seniors and youth to play board games at adult X X X LPARD, ISD activity centers on a regular basis. Strategy 3.1.8: Expand educational programs for senio r-b teleconferencing and electronic communications. 1. Plan and host routine sessions on how to use platforms such as Zoom, Cisco Webex, MS Teams, and other popular X X X X LPARD --- teleconferencing software programs. 2. Ensure that teleconferencing platforms are readily available X X X X on community center and adult activity center computers. LPARD --- 3. Train participants on how to set up a video teleconference X X X X LPARD --- with extended members of their family and/or relatives. me is Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts m LCMO LBK City Manager's Office 2 2- 2 -0 N LED LBK Engineering Dept. (n ° t '� o b.0 LFD LBK Finance Dept. c a `` c m Ebn LLD LBK Legal Dept. o .E LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. m + o 0 o aWi 'o m LSD LBK Street Dept. Q IL M U d U a s Of U) a LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation Order of TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. Project Action Magnitude TTU Texas Tech University Action Type smow�liosts e art 1. Partner with the Lubbock Arts Alliance to host LP RD 7 programs at community centers and adult activity X X X X LPARD TBD centers. 2. Partner with the City of Lubbock Garden & Arts Center to host classes and workshops at community X X X X LPARD TBD centers and adult activity centers. ategy 3.1.10: Expand adult activity centers'! 1. Make sure there are enough vans to accommodate an increased demand to participate in senior tours. X X X X LPARD TBD Repair the two vans that are currently inoperable. 2. In conjunction with Strategy 3.1.9, host escorted trips to various events happening around Lubbock throughout the year, including farmers markets (e.g., Lubbock Farmers Market and Wolfforth Farmers X X X X X LPARD TBD Market), festivals (e.g., Caprock Jazz Festival, Lubbock Arts Festival), and local art galleries, and art schools (e.g., Texas Tech School of Art). Strategy 3.1.11: Develop programs to pair animals with seniors. 1. Partner with the Haven Animal Care Shelter, and South Plains SPCA (Adoption Day) to bring abandoned and retired pets to Lubbock's community centers X X X X LPARD --- and adult activity centers. Work together to develop a fundraising campaign to promote the pairing of animals with senior citizens. 2. Partner with the City of Lubbock's Lubbock Animal Services, to host rotating Volunteer Orientation X X X X LPARD --- classes at community centers and adult activity centers. 3. Consider developing small dog parks at adult activity centers where seniors can play outside with dogs from X X X X LPARD TBD the abovementioned animal shelters. Promote a, "Get Healthy, Walk a Dog" program. at community centers an activity rategy 3.1.12: Establish community gardens a ult ers. 1. Conduct an express survey of participants who regularly visit Lubbock's community centers adult X X X X LPARD --- activity centers to determine whetherthere is interest in establishing a community garden program. 2. Establish locations at adult activity centers where X X X X X community gardens could be constructed. LPARD TBD Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University 0 Y m W N U a)i 0 ho O M � m + O a o a L O N N hq N `n c N E ° bn Y f6 C 'V W 3 C O 00 W N o C a<U Ioa MU) 20- Project Action Order of Magnitude Costs by community centers nd addactivity centers. 1. Develop criteria through which to evaluate the centers X X X X LPARD --- where physical fitness equipment should be consolidated. 2. Move all physical fitness equipment into one community X X X X center and one adult activity center. LPARD TBD 3. Remodel former fitness rooms to function in whatever capacity best serves the programmatic intentions of that X X X X LPARD TBD center. 4. Evaluate the existing physical fitness equipment and X X X X X LPARD TBD replace equipment as necessary. 5. Consider establishing a shuttle service that would run between centers to provide residents with access to the X X X X X X LPARD TBD center with the consolidated fitness equipment. Objective • • to meet the indoor• • physical fitness interests of community. rategy 3.3.1: Conduct a comprehensive fe analysis for developing a Recreation Center and Ak associated Natatorium. 1. Hire a consultant to develop a facility program and space plan, development / construction schedule, and budget for X X X LPARD TBD the recreation center / natatorium. 2. Estimate the acreage required to support a recreation X X X X X LPARD center / natatorium development program. 3. Identify potential parks that could accommodate the area requirements for the center, including parking and any X X X LPARD --- associated outdoor recreational programming required. Strategy 3.3.2: Evaluate how the proposed recreation center / natatorium could fulfill regional sports tourism objectives. 1. Work with Lubbock Sports to determine opportunities for hosting regional indoor basketball, pickleball, volleyball, swimming, diving, and other tournaments at the proposed X X X LPARD --- recreation center / natatorium, and the revenue generating opportunities therein. M610 Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University m c � .o a o � m � tIQ N y i L t (6 N E -o ++ C 3 C tIQ fn + c i 0 U W ._ o C O m U dU ad min 20- Order of Action Magnitude Aclia►zlvoe M dft Leaders Costs 1• - - •. -• • • • •FUMM • •• • • .• • trategy 4.1.1: Develop a comprehensive feasibilityanalysis for determinin the directio he Parks Department's aquatics ro ram. 1, Develop a comprehensive feasibility analysis for determining X the direction of the Parks Department's aquatics program. X X X X LPARD $So,000 Strategy 4.1.2: Develop a phased program to replace the City's swimming pools with splash pads. 1. Beyond the four locations of the existing swimming Budget pools, consider other parks where splash pads could be X X X X $500,000 per installed, to ensure an equitable distribution of splash pads LPARD splash pad throughout the City. I J 2. Conduct a survey of all third -party administered aquatics facilities in Lubbock including Homeowners Association X X X X LPARD - (HOA) and Public Improvement District (PID) administered (operated and maintained) aquatics facilities. 3. Incorporate educational elements into splash pads. Signage about the water cycle, the importance of water conservation, and how water functions in the natural X X X LPARD --- environment can be used to educate children while they play. egy 4 1. Demolish and replace the pool shell and circulation, filtration, and chemical supply equipment. pp Y X X X X LPARD S1omillionfor Actions 1-3 2. Update the Clapp Swimming Pool with new diving referto boards, slide, dumping buckets, and other leisure aquatic X X X X LPARD Action 1, recreational amenities. above 3. Ensure ADA compliance by installing new pool lifts. referto X X X X LPARD Action 1, above 4. Consider the provision of stationary aquatic therapy X X X X LPARD --- equipment such as pool bikes, and under water treadmills. 5. Consider extending the 10 and one-half week operating X X X period to 16 weeks to allow for early morning lap swimming. LPARD --- 1=4 39 Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. 0 m � U � (6 a i i U N C .0 LN : C N a� y f6 a n c (n N E ° i on bA i C M O + O m O U by O C CM o m O � m U aU IL MU) 20- - N Order of Project Action Magnitude TTU Texas Tech University don Action Type Leaders Costs ids ervice r ' 1. Visit well -established natatoriums in the general vicinity of Lubbock and elsewhere around Texas to evaluate visitation X X X LPARD --- costs, staffing requirements, annual operations and maintenance costs, and recreational program offerings. 2. Until the LPARD establishes a City -owned, administered, and operated aquatics center/natatorium, promote resident X X X X LPARD, TTU --- membership at Texas Tech University's aquatics facilities, including the leisure pool and the aquatic center. 3. Partner with Lubbock Sports and West Texas Swimming (WTSI), Inc., and other local swimming committees within USA Swimming to evaluate under what conditions could X X X X LPARD --- LPARD-administered, and other, competitive swimming programs be part of Lubbock's sports tourism program. 4. Approach Frenship ISD and Lubbock -Cooper ISD about the prospect and advantages of utilizing a City -owned aquatics X X X X LPARD, ISD --- facility to facilitate expanded aquatics programs. Lubbock - Cooper ISD currently relies on utilizing TTU's Aquatic Center. 1. Consider new trends that could be adapted to the LPARD's X X new aquatics facilities. LPARD Objective 4.2: Ensure that the administration, operations, and maintenance of LPARD aquatics facilities is fiscally sustainable. ation o ati 1. Develop a staffing plan consisting of full-time equivalent (FTE) positions as well as part-time summer employees to meet the administrative requirements of operating and X X X LPARD --- maintaining aquatics facilities as well as conducting new aquatics programs. 1. Develop a resource allocation guide and foundation for cost recovery and subsidy levels based on "Who benefits" from X X X LPARD --- the LPARD's aquatics program. 2. Conduct an aquatics facility specific operational study. X X X X LPARD TBD IMN Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School District LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University 0 m Y N i N '2 N C O_ O _ t +O � N N N -0 b0 E L hA bA Q + Y v U0 C i C C M 7 0 t6 N o o 2 W a6 O N O m U dU as ofcn .2:0- Order of MLctionTypeAMAK Magnitude Costs =rategy 5.1.1: Restore the unprogrammed open spaces within the Canyon Lakes system jjQg native plant species associated with a Texas shortgrass prairie ecosystem. 70 1. As described in Strategy 5.4.1, develop a series of unimproved hiking trails through the larger expanses of X X X --- Texas shortgrass prairie. 2. Establish a nursery on City -owned land to propagate X X X X X TBD needed Texas shortgrass prairie plant material. Strategy 5.1.2: Develop an effective program through which to manage invasive species, including the Black -Tailed Prairie Dog. 1. Consider partnering with Texas Tech University's Department of Natural Resources Management to conduct a comprehensive study on best practices regarding prairie dog population management in the Lubbock metropolitan X X X X LPARD, TTU, --- area. The results of this study should provide guidance on LLD how the LPARD can limit or mitigate the damage done by the prairie dogs while preserving the natural ecosystem of the shortarass prairie. 0 2. Reintroduce the Black -footed Ferret into the Canyon X X X X LPARD TBD Lakeslandscape. 3. Develop a public information campaign geared toward characterizing the damage and destruction attributable to X X X LPARD --- prairie dogs, particularly to parks, athletic fields, and public facilities. 4. After the removal of the large beds of cattails, which clog much of the central portion of the Canyon Lakes system, as proposed within Strategy 5.1.4, develop and implement a X X X LPARD --- program for managing the growth and spread of cattails and other invasive species of vegetation within the system. emu] Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University 1. Conduct a visual resource inventory and assessment of the views from within the Canyon Lakes system looking outward from Cesar E. Chavez Drive, key activity nodes, and other gathering places; and develop a scoring system through which to evaluate which views detract from the landscape scenery, and warrant screening; and which views might be enhanced through further enframement, utilizing plant material. 2. To enhance the feeling of being within this unique landscape, utilize evergreen plant communities that are native, indigenous, and/or compatible with living in the Llano Estacado, and strategically locate groves of plantings to screen industrial structures and other infrastructure which detracts from the intended natural character of Canyon Lakes 0 m � U � (6 a M i i U N C .0 LN : C N aQ) y f6 o In c (n N E ° i on bA C i O MCL + O U bo C o m O � m U aU 0oa M(nn 20- Project Initiation X X Order of Action Magnitude Action Type Leaders Costs es using indigenous evergreen vegetations X X Strategy 5.1.4: Implement Canyon Lakes structural (volume and conveyance) jrnprovements. X I LPARD X I LPARD 1. Develop a phased approach to recreational improvements within the Canyon Lakes system that build -off of the structural improvements to the lakes and drainageways, as LCMO, X X X X X X LED, LWD, well as the riparian enhancements proposed within Strategy LPARD 5.1.5, and the green finger improvements proposed in Strateav 5.1.6. 2. In their current state, most of the streams and drainageways that link the various lakes are choked with cattails and fallen vegetative debris. Clear, widen, and deepen the drainageways between lakes in order to improve X habitat value and navigability. The optimum width of an interconnecting stream should be approximately 20 ft wide. This will enable a canoe to turn around midstream. TBD, budget an annual allowance for screening 11r 191 $250,000 LCMO, allowancefor X X X X X LED, LWD, onemileof LPARD clearingand widening trategy 5.1.5: Improve the riparian vegetation that stabilize portions of the lakes' shorelines and the treams between the lakes. AIL 1. Ensure that enough medium (i.e., river birch) to large (cottonwood) trees are planted within the riparian zone of LCMO, $150,000 drainageways to keep at least 60 percent of the water surface X X X X X X LED, LWD, allowancefor shaded. This will reduce the ambient water temperature and LPARD 200trees enable more wildlife species to live there. lei F—AS1F7 Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts m LCMO LBK City Manager's Office 2 2- p _0 N LED LBK Engineering Dept. (n ° t '� N o b.0 LFD LBK Finance Dept. c D `n c m E -2bn .E LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. �D m + o 0 0 : 'o m LSD LBK Street Dept. Q IL M U 0- U a 0- 01- U) 0- LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation Order of TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. Project Action Magnitude TTU Texas Tech University Initiation Action Type Leaders Costs .. :mprove the ecological function of stormwater outfalls into the Canyon Lakes 1. Utilizing Map 5.2, Existing Conditions and Constriants, evaluate which outfalls and drainage ditches might be regraded to enhance ecological function, as described above. 2. Work with the Leprino Foods Company to ensure that wastewater effluent discharged into Dunbar Lake (No. 6) is done so by way of a system that is conducive X to enhancing the ecological functions of the Lakes system. X X X X LWD LPARD, LED, TBD X X X LPARLW D D, LED, Strategy 5. .1: Improve pedestrian access and connectivity to the Canyon enhanced active transportation facilitiel al Trails). 1. Develop the recommended Type A Portal Trails (PA#) and associated pedestrian safety improvements. kes by way of X I X I X I X I X I LPARD, LED 2. Develop the recommended Type 2 Portal Trails (PB#) and associated pedestrian safety improvements. X X X X X LPARD, LED 3. Develop the recommended Internal Portal Trails and associated pedestrian safety improvements. X X X X X LPARD, LED ategy 5.2.2: Improve internal pedestrian circulation within the Ca n Lakes through development of a hierarchy of active transportation facilities. 1. Develop an off-street pedestrian 10-12 foot wide, ADA-compliant, concrete, primary spine trail that runs from the Berl Huffman Sports Complex to the eastern X X X X X LPARD, end of proposed Lake 7. 1 1 TxDOT 2. Complementary to the primary spine trail, construct a series of secondary trails which are intended to provide facilities for more relaxed walking along the X X X X X LPARD, LED shores of the lakes, through parks, and from parking areas to specific facilities such as boat launches, fishing piers, pavilions, courts, and playgrounds. $2,200,000 for concrete only; $2,401,000 fortrail and amentities $1,025,000 for concrete only; $1,048,000 fortrail and amentities $3,293,000 for concrete only $8,807,000 for concrete only; $18,200,000 fortrail and amentities $2,365,000 for concrete only; $6,910,000 fortrail and amentities Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts m LCMO LBK City Manager's Office a) a p p ,n +) LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. w ° � ,n C m a c N E o LLD LBK Legal Dept. O } } ;a a 2 2 2 -`a �a LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. M + o 0 o b- o O LSD LBK Street Dept. O � M U IL U IL 0- M U> 2 0- LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. Project Action TTU Texas Tech University Initiation Action Type Leaders S .3: Improve parking areas and trailheads throughout the Canyon Lakes system. 1. Evaluate the condition of each parking lot, including the pavement, striping, presence of and need for additional lighting, drainage improvements, etc. Include incremental X X X X LPARD improvements to the parking lots within the LPARD's annual budget. 2. For parking lots that are immediately adjacent to the proposed primary trail spine; consider adding bicycle -related trailhead improvements, including directional / wayfinding X X X X LPARD signage, pavilion, benches and/or picnic table, drinking fountain, and bicycle repair station (minor trailhead elements). 3. For parking lots that will also function as trailheads, consider landscape enhancements that will clearly denote X X X X LPARD that they are trailheads and improve legibility. 4. In addition to the existing parking lots,12 additional trailheads have been proposed which will improve access and connectivity to the trails within the Canyon Lakes system. X X X X LPARD, LED Strategy 5.2.4: Improve the pedestrian bridges within the Canyon Lakes system. 1. Conduct an inventory of pedestrian bridges and evaluate X X X X LPARD, LED the condition of each. 2. Develop replacement criteria and schedule and build -in to the City's Cartegraph asset management program. 3. Identify a suitable prefabricated bridge manufacturer and bridge model for future bridge replacement. Ensure that the bridge type will function in all current conditions. trategy 5.2.5: Implement enhanced safety cou crossings. 1. Identify areas where there are existing safety concerns or barriers along trail routes. 2. Work with the City's Engineering Department and the Lubbock Metropolitan Planning Organization (LMPO) to identify sources of funding for improving proposed primary, secondary, and portal trail (Types A and B) safety at thoroughfare and railroad crossings. X I I X X X X LPARD X I X I X LPARD, LED rmeasures at key trail and bikeway X X LPARD X X X LPARD, LED Order of Magnitude Costs TBD $20,000 allowance each TBD $138,000 allowance each, $1,656,000 for all 12 trailheads TBD 3. Initiate a bicycle safety awareness program to educate X X X X LPARD --- cyclists and motorists on sharing the roadway. Er trategy 5.2.6: Explore partnering with TxDOT to include the proposed Canyon Lakes imary Spine Trail within the Texas Bicycle Tourism Study routes. 1. Submit plans and details depicting the alignment and construction of the proposed primary spine trail within X X X LPARD, --- TxDOT's Plan Submission Portal (https://apps.highstreet. TxDOT work/PlanSubmissionPortal/). MOM Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University m U U) (D O U) C Q O _0 fN N bbA i f6 d N N � .2 -6 bn 3 )} m a� a a� m M bA } O cn c + O Q- O u W o bA m O I m U 0-U a°0- �c"n 2a Project kkitiation � Iigjikn Type Order of Action Magnitude Leaders Costs Objective • • water -based recreational opportunities. 1. Develop a phased approach to implementing the LPARD, Blueways program. X X X X X LCMO, --- LWD, LED 2. In conjunction with Strategy 5.1.2, remove the $88,000 previously referenced golf cart bridges and realign for new golf course trail to avoid crossing the stream, or X X X LPARD, pedestrian reconstruct the bridges to enable safe passage under LED, LWD bridge; bridges for watercraft. $264,the three l o cation l three locations including fishing an Strategy 5.3.2: Improve access to water -based recreational activities, oating. 1. Identify a variety of standardized ADA compliant $10,000/ea put -in and take-out boat launch structures (including X X X LPARD (incl. put -in and parking, signage and walkway access). take-out) 2. Study and prepare plans for each of the portage routes around impassible obstacles to navigate the X X X LPARD --- proposed Canyon Lakes Blueways route. trategy 5.3.3: Identify -areas where additional boardwalks and fishing piers are warranted to enable access to newly opened portions of lake shoreline and streambank. 1. Develop standard boardwalk construction details and specifications to be incorporated into the City's Engineering Minimum Design Standards and X X X LEDRD TBD Specifications manual (May 01, 2020) and utilized throughout the Canyon Lakes and in parks with playas. 2. To enrich the visitors' experience develop interpretive signage that identifies the diversity of native bird and aquatic life, as well as the role and X X X X LPARD, LED $450-$2,000 each function of aquatic plant species in removing toxins and particulate matter, and improving water quality. 3. In areas where there is an abundance of seasonal bird and animal life, construct camouflaged blinds at X X X X LPARD, $20,000 key points along boardwalks and piers, where visitors LED, LWD each can sit and observe wildlife. Strategy 5.3.4: Provide a variety of land- (bicycles) and water -based s, canoes, paddl boards, fishing gear) sport rentals at lake access points. 1. Partner with the Lubbock Economic Development Alliance (LEDA) to promote the rental of sports X X X X X LPARD, --- equipment. LED NORM] Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University 0 m � U � (6 a i i U N C .0 LN : C N a� y f6 a n c (n N E ° i on bA C i M O + O m 0 U by O C CM o m O � m U aU IL MU) 20- N Order of Project Action Magnitude Action &&1"NNM 1kosts 1. Develop a series of informative (plant identification and interpretive) signage to further describe significant X X X X LPARD characteristics of the resident flora and fauna that compose a Texas shortgrass prairie ecosystem. Strategy 5.4.2: Pursue Bird City Texas certification through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). 1. Partner with Lubbock -based environmental organizations to adopt a resolution stating that the City and allied organizations will strive to uphold and implement the principles and best practices associated x with the Bird City Texas certification program; including the preservation and management of wildlife habitat areas conducive to birds during migration; in particular urban and non -urban playas. X X I I X I LPARD 2. Develop metrics and indicators to track and quantify X X X X I LPARD enhancements to Lubbock's bird population. Strategy 5.4.3: Promote the Llano Estacado loop of the TPWD's Panhandle Plains Wildlife Trail. i 1. Work with TPWD to identify additional stations along the Llano Estacado Loop which can be promoted for X X X X LPARD enhanced bird watching. Strategy 5.4.4: Improve the mountain biking trails system. $450 - $2,000 each TBD 1. Work with the LBK MTB mountain biking club to maintain the single-track trail system. X X X X LPARD --- 2. Partner with the LBK MTB to define standards of construction quality and safety for all mountain biking X X X LPARD --- structures, including ramps, jumps, ladder bridges, and teeter-totters. trategy 5.4.5: Develop a series of adventure p aygroun s an natural p aygrour 1. Contact Lubbock ISD to determine whether they would be interested in developing, operating and maintaining either an adventure playground or natural X X X X LPARD, ISD TBD playground at the Anita Carmona-Harrison Elementary School and other schools around the Canyon Lakes. Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation m U N (D O U) C Q O _0 fN N bbA i f6 d N N � .2 -6 bn 3 )} m a� a a� m M bA } O cn c + O Q_ O u W o bA m O I m U dU a°a �U) 2a TPWD TX Parks and Wildlrfe Dept. Project TTU Texas Tech University Initiation Action Type uct an adventure padLorienteering faci 1. Tour some of the prominent adventure parks in Texas; in particular, the Trinity Forest Adventure Park, X in Dallas; and the Texas Treeventures park in The Woodlands. 2. Contact the Lubbock Adventure Park to determine whether they would be interested in entering -in to a X public -private partnership for the development of an adventure park in the Canyon Lakes. 3. Conduct a feasibility study to determine the ideal location for adventure amenities such as zip lines, X obstacle courses, and other amenities within the Canyon Lakes system. 4. Ensure that the course is built to the standards of the ACCT (Association of Challenge Course Technology) specifications, which is among the most stringent ropes course safety standards in the X world. Every element of the adventure park should be inspected daily and every year, re -certified to ACCT specifications. rategy 5.4.7: Develop an adventure racing program X 1. Create an adventure racing program. 2. Organize competitions which include adventure activities appropriate for the Canyon Lakes'terrain and X climate, such as running, trekking, cycling, kayaking, and paddling. 3. Utilize the City's social media platforms, the Visit Lubbock webpage, and partnerships with private X sports businesses to advertise its adventure racing Droerams and competitions. Order of Action Magnitude Naders Costs X X X LPARD --- X X LPARD --- X I I X I X I X I LPARD $30,000 X I X I LPARD X I X I X I X I LPARD X I X I I X I LPARD X I X I X I LPARD trategy 5.5.1: Support events and programs in the Canyon Lakes' parks that highlight the City's ical heritage. 1. Support events and programs in the Canyon Lakes' X X X X LPARD TBD parks that highlight the City's musical heritage. Vrategy 5.5.2: Develop an area within hold small concerts and outdoor performances or audiences of up to 5,000 people. 1. Identify similar outdoor music venues in cities around Texas in order to develop a provisional program X X X LPARD TBD of the space and facilities required to host concerts of up to 5,000 people. Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University 0 m � U � (6 a i i U N C .0 LN : (n C N a� y f6 a n c N E i on bA i O + U by C CM C M O � m O m U 0 aU O IL MU) o m 20- - N Order of Project Action Magnitude Initiation Action Type Leaders Costs odate social ath ring to 100 people. 1. Identify spaces that are particularly scenic; which offer commanding views of the lakes and other amenities; that X X X LPARD --- might be nestled in a grove of trees, adjacent to a lake or the stream. 2. Consider making several pavilions Wi-Fi hot spots. referto X X X X X LPARD Strategy 5.5.4, Action 2, below Strategy 5.5.4: Continue to ad vered ace for 1. Identify spaces that are particularly scenic; which offer commanding views of the Lakes and other amenities; that X X X LPARD might be nestled in a grove of trees, adjacent to a lake or the stream. 2. Consider making several pavilions Wi-Fi hot spots, S10,000ateach so people could go to a pavilion and access the Internet location with with their laptop; in order to do their homework, or order (2)Wi-Fiaccess points; (4) something from Amazon. X X X X X LPARD pavilionstotal= $40,000 (Does not include conduit to location) Strategy 5.5.5: Identify public gathering spaces along the north shoreline of proposed Jim Bertram Lake (No. 7) that maybe linked to the primary trail spine. 1. As soon as a provisional development program has been established for the area between the northern shoreline LPARD, of proposed Lake 7 and CR 6900, review the proposed X X X LCMO, --- locations of the areas identified to make sure proposed LWD, LED land uses are compatible with the recreation areas. O•jective 5.6: Improve • • tic safety within the Canyon Lakes system. Strategy 5.6.1: Partner with the Lubbock Police Department (LPD) to conduct more routine patrols f the Canyon Lakes s ste now 1. Work with the IPMBA and LPD in standing -up (e.g., programming, scheduling, and budgeting) a bicycle police LPARD, patrol unit, including providing the justification, deployment X X X X X LCMO, --- strategies, training, standard operating procedure (SOP) LFD, LLD and officer selection. Strategy 5.6.2: Promote park, neighborhood, and open space safety. Apply crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) principles to both development projects and park maintenance operations. 1. Evaluate all park improvements utilizing CPTED design strategies including natural surveillance, natural access X X X LPARD ... control, territorial reinforcement, and mechanical forms of surveillance and access control. M Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts m LCMO LBK City Manager's Office 2 2- p _0 N LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. (n ° a t '� `n E o -2bn b.0 LLD LBK Legal Dept. c c m .E LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. �D m + o 0 0 : 'o m LSD LBK Street Dept. Q IL M U o- U a o- 01- U) a LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation Order of TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. Project Magnitude TTU Texas Tech University kkitiation � Type Costs Objective Develop a uniqueand identifiable brand and associated communications program for Canyonte 1. Develop a brand for Canyon Lakes X X X X LPARD .. on pro ram e 1. Create a local commission or board dedicated to developing, creating, and overseeing the marketing and X X X X LPARD branding of the Canyon Lakes. 2. Work with Visit Lubbock, Texas Tech University, Lubbock Health Department, Lubbock Arts District, independent school districts, and other community X X X X LPARD, TTU, ___ organizations to develop and identify short-term and long-term strategies for branding the Canyon Lakes. 3. Create a community branding campaign that engages residents and organizations to understand X X X X LPARD --- and identify the direction the Canyon Lakes branding and marketing should take. a egy 5.7.3: Implement digital and p ec niques for the Canyon ran ing mar a Mg kes. 1. Develop a series of signage types and designs specific to the Canyon Lakes, while ensuring that the X X X LPARD TBD branding is recognizably within a similar family to other parks signage. 2. Develop a specific logo and slogan for the Canyon X X X X LPARD TBD Lakes. X X X X LPARD 3. Develop a series of physical and online posters to be TBD utilized as both advertisements and public art. 4. Identify and develop strategies for eco-tourism to the Canyon Lakes such as adventure racing, tournaments, fundraisers, packaged deals with other community X X X X X LPARD --- organizations, promotion through online tourism platforms, and educational walking tours. Objective for parks and recreational facility improvementson • • - of proposed Jim Bertram Lake • .1: Prepare a provisional land development plan for the Lake 7 Developm oposed primary trail spine alignment 7necessary adhere to the provisional land X X X X LPARD, LCMO lan and proposed restrictive easement. 2. Work with the City's Water Department to define the rationale and extent of the required restrictive LPARD, X X X X X LCMO, LWD, ... easement and associated covenants, conditions, and LLD restrictions (CCRs). .,A Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University 0 m � U � (6 a i i U N C .0 LN : (n C N a� y f6 a In c N E i on bA i O + O U by C CM C M O � m O m U aU O IL MU) o m 20- - N Order of Project Action Magnitude Initiation Action Type Leaders Costs Strategy ua e Me potential for establishing "Community Recreation Areas" within the roposed restrictive easement. 1. As depicted on Map 5.4, Lake No. 7 Restrictive Easement and Proposed Trail Alignment, test the feasibility of the proposed locations for Community Recreation Areas within the restrictive easement, based on topography and steep X X X X LPARD, TBD LWD, LLD slopes, vehicular and pedestrian access (including ADA compliance), connections to the proposed primary spine trail, etc. Objective .• -g destination. Strategy 5.9.1: Implement an on-line cam registration syste 1. Examine the TPWD's Reservation Online Portal and the 7and LCRA's online reservation system and determine the features X X X X functionality within each program the LPARD would like LPARD to emulate. 2. Work with the City's IT Department to determine how the LPARD's Portal will need to be modified to host an online X X X LPARD --- registration / reservation option. Area's Entrn he Pazj=lt Office and Gati 1. Expand the existing Recreation Area Permit Office to function as a welcome center. Additional programmatic functions and features could include restrooms; a small store where visitors can purchase books on the history of the area, X X X X X X LPARD, $420,000 LLD, LFD, ($300/sf) wildlife and bird identification guides, hats, t-shirts, patches, fishing maps, sunscreen, snacks; and interpretive exhibits on the region's natural and cultural heritage. 2. Implement a lockable entrance gate and develop policies regarding when the gate is opened in the morning and locked X X X X $40,000 at night; how often the code is changed; how visitors are LPARD each provided with the code, etc. 3. Install security lights and a 24-7 camera surveillance system X X X X $11,000 to record people entering and exiting the Recreation Area. LPARD each 4. Provide Wi-Fi access immediately around the Recreation $10,000with Area Permit Office. (2)Wi-Fiaccess X X X X LPARD points(Does not include conduitto location) 5. In addition to handouts provided in the Permit Office, ensure that campground, marina, boating, and fishing regulations, as will as emergency contact information is X X X X X 2,000 LPARD, LLD $ each each prominently displayed for everyone to read upon entrance into the Recreation Area. I Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts m LCMO LBK City Manager's Office 2 2- 2 -0 N LED LBK Engineering Dept. (n ° t '� N o bb.0 LFD LBK Finance Dept. c a `n c m E -2bn .E LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. �D m + o 0 0 : 'o m LSD LBK Street Dept. i XAm i Ru %A/mot— no r Q M Q U d U a s cn a TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation Order of TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. Project Action Magnitude TTU Texas Tech University Initiation Action Type AM eaders Costs kilo' g facility, boat launch, and man 1. Construct an additional parking lot for trucks and X X X X X LPARD $115,000 trailers. 2. Install security lights and a 24-7 camera surveillance system to monitor and record truck and trailer traffic in X X X LPARD $11,000 the parking area. 3. Provide security lighting at the boat launch to assist x X LPARD $14,000 with boat loading before dawn and after dark. 4. Consider constructing an additional boat dock and X X X Crappie House facility. 44 LPARD $180,000 5. Establish a station where rentable canoes and X X X X LPARD S4s0,000 kayaks, life preservers and paddles can be stored. Strategy 5.9.4: Construct additional restroom facilities. 1. Install a shielded security lighting system that illuminates restroom doors without causing light X X LPARD $11,000 trespass. �—L facility in proximity to th conveniences 1. Evaluate administrative options and preferences, regarding whether the LPARD should operate, or 7 X X X X LPARD, --- whether a convenience store should be operated by a LLD, LBK third party entity. 2. Consider allocating a space for a food truck or similar facility where hamburgers, hot dogs, tacos, and X X X LPARD --- other food items could be sold. y 5.9.6: Develop a day use area adjacent to the lakeshore. 1. Work with the City's Legal Department to establish policies and regulations for swimming at the day X X X X LPARD, LLD ... use area, and whether a lifeguard will be required or whether swimming can be "at your own risk:' 2. Work with a landscape architect to prepare a program, design, and subsequent construction documents and specifications for a day use area, X X X LPARD $150K including access, parking area, picnic pavilions, beach, etc. Strategy 5.9.7: Develop a system ay p Sam Wahl Recreation Area. 1. Develop a map of potential blueways. Laminate the map so it is waterproof so paddlers to take the map with them during canoeing and kayaking trips. Identify X X X LLD --- and describe unique natural and cultural resources along the blueway. Identify places where paddlers may want to stop and have lunch. ie AM Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University 0 m � U � (6 a i i U N C .0 LN : (n C N a� y f6 a In c N E i on bA i O + O U bA C CM C M O � m O m U aU O IL MU) o m 20- - N Order of Project Action Magnitude Initiation Action Type Leaders Costs ra egy 5. .8: Alla portion of Recreation Area revenues to a capital improvement fund to pay for facility improvements and routine upgrades. �4L 1. Evaluate Recreation Area revenues versus expenditures to determine how much funding may be allocated to start a small capital improvement program through which modest X X X LPARD, LFD --_ improvements can be funded through the Recreation Area's enterprise fund. 2. Consider prioritizing the implementation of capital projects X X X LPARD, --- that will increase revenues for the Recreation Area. LFD t the Recreation 1. Model the park host program after the TPWD's successful campground host program. For more information about TPWD's Park Host program, including position descriptions X X X LPARD, LLD --- and applications, refer to the following link: https://tpwd. texas.gov/state-parks/help-parks/park-host. 2. Use the following link to download TPWD's State Parks Host Manual: https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/ X X X LPARD med is/pwd_bk_p4000_1941. pdf 3. Identify a prominent, visible campsite for the park host to reside. Ensure that the campsite has access to cellular X X X LPARD ... reception and Wi-Fi access. 4. Partner with the Garza County Sheriff's Office to make sure the park host is provided with immediate support from X X X LPARD --- law enforcement if unlawful activities are reported. 1. New RV campsites should include the following amenities: $36,000each; access to water and 30 / 50 amp electrical hookups, picnic X X X X $432,000for pavilion, waste receptacle, designated fire ring, post with LPARD proposed12 campsite designation number. new sites 2. As with other campsites, provide a safe, though relatively $185,000; unimproved trail from the campsite to the Lake's shoreline. X X X X LPARD $35/LF Me W Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts LCMO LBK City Manager's Office LED LBK Engineering Dept. LFD LBK Finance Dept. LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. LSD LBK Street Dept. LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. TTU Texas Tech University m U N (D O U) C Q O -0 fN N bbA i f6 d N N � .2 -6 bn 3 )} m a� a a� m M bA } O cn c + O Q_ O u W o bA m O I m U dU a°a �c"n 2a Project Initiation Action Type Action Leaders y 6.1.1:ually provide opportunities for residents to provide feedback on overall park, recreation, and trail system satisfaction and unmet service needs and ,interests. 1. Periodic resident satisfaction surveys can help provide an updated snapshot of current needs and desires. 2. The LPARD should reach a better understanding of overall satisfaction ratings overtime and adjust X programs or services where warranted. Strategy 6.1.2: Maintain strong internal communications w departments, and appointed and elected officials. 1. Assess and internally update this master plan on an annual basis to determine revised areas of need based X on recent developments. 2. An annual progress report detailing LPARD progress in fulfilling Master Plan objectives through implementing strategies should be presented to the City Manager's Office, City Council, Parks Advisory X Board, and Planning Department. Modify the LPARD's CIP according to changing circumstances and priorities. progress report regarding 1. Include the park conditions assessment scoring X updates in the progress report. Strategy 6.1.4: Establish a "Friends 1. Establish a Friends of Lubbock's Parks Foundation X X I X X LPARD X LPARD X LPARD X LPARD X Strategy 6.1.5: Consider pursuing Parks and Recreatio ion through the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). 1. Based on review of CAPRA accreditation standards, develop a realistic schedule and plan of priority action items based on a determination of which X X X LPARD Fundamental Standards remain to be completed and which remaining Standards the Parks and Recreation Department plans to fulfill. 2. Contribute LPARD administrative information to NRPA Park Metrics. In partial fulfillment of CAPRA standards, begin uploading LPARD administration, X X X LPARD operations, and maintenance data to the NRPA's park metrics (refer to CAPRA Standard 10.5.3). Order of Magnitude Costs 6.51 Table 6.1, Implementation Action Plan Action Leaders Key ISD Independent School Districts m LCMO LBK City Manager's Office a) a p p +) LED LBK Engineering Dept. o ° a � N C m 2 LFD LBK Finance Dept. } } `n c a N E -`a bJ0 LLD LBK Legal Dept. LPARD LBK Parks and Recreation Dept. O M + ;a C 0 o 2 Z3 C o Ca LSD LBK Street Dept. O � M O o o IL U IL IZ M U> 2 a LWD LBK Water Dept. TxDOT TX Dept. of Transportation TPWD TX Parks and Wildlife Dept. Project Action TTU Texas Tech University ALtiation Action Type Leaders 3. Review the "Suggested Evidence of Compliance" section in order to identify an acceptable means of demonstrating X X X LPARD compliance with a standard. 4. Based on CAPRA guidelines, prepare an "Agency Self - Assessment" and "Evidence of Compliance" and submit to X X LPARD the CAPRA. 5. Upon acceptance of the above -mentioned documentation, schedule a tourfor CAPRA representatives to visit Lubbock's X X LPARD Parks and Recreation Department and its facilities. rategy 6.1.6: Consider purchasing a software platform for automating the PARD's VA PRA annual reporting requirements. 1. Several CAPRA-accredited parks departments utilize the PowerDMS software platform to assist with annual CAPRA reporting requirements. Ensure that departmental and X X LPARD divisional administrators receive adequate training regarding the use of this program. 2. Schedule times when CAPRA reporting information should X X be submitted well in advance of when it is due. LPARD 1. Rename the data and update all references to each X X LPARD park. rategy 6.1.8: Recalibrate park acreages. 1. Rerecord the data and update all references to each park. X X LPARD 2. Submit new acreage data to TPL for inclusion within Park X X LPARD Score. Order of Magnitude Costs M