July 29, 2014 Pt Vicente Park Skate Park Feasibility Staff ReportA
MEMORANDUM RANCHO PALOS VERDES
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
FROM: CORY LINDER, DIRECTOR, RECREATION AND PARKS9P
DATE: JULY 29, 2014
SUBJECT: POINT VICENTE PARK SKATE PARK FEASIBILITY
REVIEWED: CAROLYNN PETRU, ACTING CITY MANAGER
Staff Coordinator: Matt Waters, Senior Administrative Analyst, Recreation and Parkq�p
RECOMMENDATION
Direct staff to: 1) Complete the Parks Master Plan Update; 2) Initiate an update of the Coast
Vision Plan; and 3) Include Skatepark PV's proposal for a skate park at Point Vicente Park as
part of these efforts.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On April 15th, 2014, the Council tasked the Director of Recreation and Parks to work with the
Skatepark PV Inc. (SPV) Board of Directors to review, evaluate and modify as necessary, the
skate park proposal by SPV and report back to the City Council with a recommendation
specifically addressing the feasibility of allowing a privately funded skate park to be
constructed at Point Vicente Park/Civic Center. Staff analyzed the feasibility of the project by
looking at a number of factors including a) needs assessment; b) consistency with the 1989
Parks Master Plan; c) consistency with the 2008 Coast Vision Plan; d) Program of
Utilization/Zoning; e) financial/liability analysis; and f) visual/aesthetic concerns. Upon
completion of the analysis, staff believes that, if it is the desire of the Council and the
community to have such a facility at Point Vicente Park, it would be feasible to construct a
skate park on the property that conforms with the site's current zoning/land use deed
restrictions, and that issues concerning financing, insurance and visual/aesthetic concerns
could be addressed through the proper agreements, operating procedures, and project
design/site placement. However, staff has serious reservations about proceeding with such a
significant capital project on a piecemeal basis, without the benefit of an updated Parks
Master Plan and the Coast Vision Plan. Therefore, staff recommends completing the update
to these plans prior to making a decision regarding the SPV skate park proposal.
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Point Vicente Skate Park Feasibility
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BACKGROUND
SPV, a 501-c-3 non-profit organization, has actively advocated for a skate park to be located
on the Palos Verdes Peninsula for a number of years. In 2010, SPV approached the City
about a skate park at Lower Hesse Park during the City's Lower Hesse Park and Grandview
Improvement Project. Council authorized a contract with the consulting firm, Mia Lehrer and
Associates (ML+A), to assist the City in identifying suitable sites for a skate park facility. On
September 6, 2011, ML+A's scope of work was expanded to include a dog park site analysis
in addition to the skate park site analysis.
In 2012, two skate park projects located in adjacent cities moved forward. On June 12, 2012
the Rolling Hills Estates City Council approved a 9,000 square foot skate park as part of the
Ernie Howlett Master Plan with the understanding the SPV would fundraise for the park's
design and construction. The City of Los Angeles announced that it would begin construction
of an 8,000 square foot skate park at Peck Park in San Pedro, located directly across Western
Avenue from the City of RPV's border. The Peck Park skate park is scheduled to open on
August 15th. SPV's Past -President shared with staff in 2012 that the Ernie Howlett Park skate
park best fit SPV's goals and they were going to focus on fundraising at that location.
Following these developments, the Council suspended work on a skate park in Rancho Palos
Verdes on June 19, 2012 and discontinued its contract with ML+A. However, 2013 soil test
results for the proposed Ernie Howlett site determined that the designated area would not
support the weight of a concrete skate plaza. The Ernie Howlett Master Plan no longer
includes a Skate Park project.
Members of the SPV Board of Directors approached several members of the City Council
earlier this year to discuss a privately funded and maintained skate park to be located at Point
Vicente Park/Civic Center. SPV supporters also raised this possibility during public comments
at the March 4, 2014 City Council meeting. Subsequently, at its April 15, 2014 meeting, the
City Council approved a recommendation from Mayor Duhovic directing Recreation staff to
work with (SPV) to "...review, evaluate and modify as necessary, the skate park proposal by
SPV and report back to the City Council with a recommendation specifically addressing the
feasibility of allowing a privately funded skate park to be constructed on City Hall property."
DISCUSSION
The Proposal
Recreation staff met recently with SPV Vice -President Jim Parker to clarify and confirm the
significant components of SPV's proposal. The proposal is essentially the same as the
proposal contained in Mayor Duhovic's April 15, 2014 report.
SPV proposes a privately -funded and maintained multi -use 15,000 square foot skate park at
Point Vicente Park/Civic Center. The proposed location (fig. A) is the existing lawn area
between the existing tennis court and the main City Hall parking lot. Mr. Parker emphasized
that the site would not need to be supervised, and would be designed to accommodate City
events, as well as function as a skate park.
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Point Vicente Skate Park Feasibility
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The proposal includes:
*Construction of up to 19 asphalt -lined parking spaces
*A solid, grouted concrete block, steel door, restroom facility -approximately 10'by12'
*At least two concrete picnic style tables
*At least one large plaza interior planter
*A raised seating/platform area that could also be used as an amphitheater or stage
*Installation of a permanent drinking fountain
*Electrical/water conduit should the City wish to utilize it a later date
*Rehabilitation of the Tennis Court surface and fencing
*Relocation of the Volleyball Court (if necessary)
*Maintenance expenses for a 10 -year agreement
MVP MULTI -USE PLAZA
• Derl � fkudl�i MULTI -USE AREA PLAN
RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CA
Fig. A (overview of proposed skate plaza location)
The following is an analysis of the project's feasibility based on a) needs assessment; b)
consistency with the 1989 Parks Master Plan; c) consistency with the 2008 Coast Vision Plan;
d) Program of Utilization/Zoning; e) liability/usage concerns; f) financial/construction analysis;
and g) visual/aesthetic concerns.
A) Needs Assessment
Number of Skaters: The Public Skate Park Development Guide, composed of
recommendations from skate park advocates including the Tony Hawk Foundation, contains
a formula for estimating the number of skateboarders in a community and the corresponding
skate park needs. The Guide estimates that 16% of youth between the ages of 5 and 24 are
skateboarders. 15,769 total youth within the four Peninsula cities equals approximately 2,500
skateboarders, of whom approximately 1,600 are in Rancho Palos Verdes. Based on those
figures, the guide recommends 32,000 square feet of skate park facilities for the Peninsula,
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although Peck Park's proximity might lower that estimation. SPV personnel report anecdotal
complaints from parents about having to repeatedly drive their children off the Peninsula to
access a skate park.
Existing Skate Parks: Skate parks in proximity to the Peninsula are the Hermosa Beach
Stake Park, Carson Skate Park, Wilmington Skate Park, and Peck Park in the City of Los
Angeles.
B) Master Plan
The City last updated its Parks Master Plan in 1989. Recommended priorities for the Point
Vicente Park/Civic Center site included a senior citizens center, two paddle tennis courts,
pedestrian paths, a permanent amphitheater, turf and irrigation improvements, and a
municipal golf course (including the grounds of Lower Point Vicente). There is no mention in
the document of a skate park or skate plaza. The Open Space Planning and Recreation and
Parks Task Force was tasked by City Council in 2003 with updating the Parks Master Plan.
The Task Force's 2005 recommendations for the Point Vicente Park included many
recreation elements, one of which was a skate park. No design details, dimensions or cost
estimates were provided for the skate park. However, the Task Force's recommendations,
which were included in a Draft Strategic Parks Master Plan, were not adopted by Council. In
2009, the City Council initiated the creation of a Civic Center Master Plan, however this
planning effort was placed on hold in 2012. While there is nothing in the 1989 Master Plan
that specifically recommends or discourages a skate park, it is worth noting that the City
Council recently directed Recreation staff to conduct a Parks Master Plan update. This
update will include Point Vicente Park. Staff recommends including SPV's proposal as part of
the master plan process prior to the City making a commitment to a significant and
permanent capital improvement on the property that could limit or conflict with the City's long
term needs and/or other desired improvements for the property.
C) 2008 Coast Vision Plan
On September 2, 2008 the City Council adopted the Rancho Palos Verdes Coast Vision Plan.
The Vision Plan represented over two years of planning and an extensive public outreach
effort to create an informational planning document of the City's coast areas. The Vision Plan
included five key locations, including Point Vicente Park. The plan focused on public access,
recreational amenities, and education materials to enhance the coastal experience for
residents and visitors. The Vision Plan lays out a phased approach to improve Point Vicente
Park. Recommended elements include an Arts Cultural Center, a new City Council Chamber
and City Hall, a pool/gymnasium complex, a village green, centralized parking, an
amphitheater, expanded/linked trail system, and high quality landscaping.
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Point Vicente Skate Park Feasibility
Date: July 29, 2014
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The proposed location of the skate plaza overlays the village green section of both the mid-
term and long-term plan (fig b). The Vision Plan notes that the village green could
accommodate multiple elements including a sunken grass amphitheater, a Veteran's
memorial or public art, and would still function as a community gathering area on a daily basis
and for events such as the Fourth of July celebration. Additions/improvements to Point
Vicente Park have typically been minor in scope or temporary, such as the temporary Senior
Center or Rancho Caninos Dog Park. The installation of a permanent, concrete skate plaza
facility is inconsistent with the adopted Vision Plan, although SPV's proposal does include a
public gathering area component. SPV has indicated that they are willing to discuss alternate
locations both at Point Vicente Park and at other locations in the City.
D) Program of Utilization/Deed Restrictions
The 73.3 Point Vicente Park site is comprised of 8.23 acres dedicated to institutional use
(most of the flat portion of the site -owned in fee title by the City), 51.3 acres of Open Space
Preserve Lands, and 13.82 acres of Recreational Passive park land. 65.12 acres of the site
were given to the City by the Federal Government and are subject to various deed restrictions
and a Program of Utilization overseen by the National Park Service. There is a potential
exception for 6.6 acres of the 65.12 acres to be used for active recreational use. SPV's
proposal would occupy a portion of Point Vicente Park that is currently restricted by the
Federal Program of Utilization. According to the Conservation & Open Space Elements
section of the City's General Plan, "Any changes in land use to the property through future
Master Planning efforts would require approval by the Planning Commission and City Council
through public hearings along with review and approval of a change, if necessary, to the
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The proposed location of the skate plaza overlays the village green section of both the mid-
term and long-term plan (fig b). The Vision Plan notes that the village green could
accommodate multiple elements including a sunken grass amphitheater, a Veteran's
memorial or public art, and would still function as a community gathering area on a daily basis
and for events such as the Fourth of July celebration. Additions/improvements to Point
Vicente Park have typically been minor in scope or temporary, such as the temporary Senior
Center or Rancho Caninos Dog Park. The installation of a permanent, concrete skate plaza
facility is inconsistent with the adopted Vision Plan, although SPV's proposal does include a
public gathering area component. SPV has indicated that they are willing to discuss alternate
locations both at Point Vicente Park and at other locations in the City.
D) Program of Utilization/Deed Restrictions
The 73.3 Point Vicente Park site is comprised of 8.23 acres dedicated to institutional use
(most of the flat portion of the site -owned in fee title by the City), 51.3 acres of Open Space
Preserve Lands, and 13.82 acres of Recreational Passive park land. 65.12 acres of the site
were given to the City by the Federal Government and are subject to various deed restrictions
and a Program of Utilization overseen by the National Park Service. There is a potential
exception for 6.6 acres of the 65.12 acres to be used for active recreational use. SPV's
proposal would occupy a portion of Point Vicente Park that is currently restricted by the
Federal Program of Utilization. According to the Conservation & Open Space Elements
section of the City's General Plan, "Any changes in land use to the property through future
Master Planning efforts would require approval by the Planning Commission and City Council
through public hearings along with review and approval of a change, if necessary, to the
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Point Vicente Skate Park Feasibility
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Program of Utilization by the National Park Service." Staff recently had a conversation with
David Siegenthaler of the National Park Service to discuss the possibility of swapping the 6.6
acre parcel from its current location along the northerly boundary of the lower portion of Point
Vicente to the upper portion of the park adjacent to the existing City Hall facilities (Figs. C &
D). This exchange would potentially allow for the installation of a skate park or other active
use(s) at that location. The initial verbal response to staff's inquiry was positive. Staff has
followed up with a letter (attached) seeking to confirm and memorialize the conversation.
(Fig C)
(fig D)
An alternative possibility would be to consider relocating the proposal to the Institutionally -
zoned portion of the property that is not subject to the POU. As mentioned previously, SPV is
amenable to discussing different locations, which could be facilitated by the Parks Master
Plan and Coast Vision Plan update process.
E) Liability/Insurance Concerns
The California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (CJPIA) provides a template for
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Point Vicente Skate Park Feasibility
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recommended guidelines for the design, construction and operation of skate parks / plazas.
The template generally speaks to the design and construction process and goes into more
detail with its proposed operation. The operation recommendations describe both supervised
and unsupervised facilities.
Design and construction code/licensing all are required. Since this facility is proposed to be
unsupervised; mixed use (skateboards, in-line skates, bicycles, and scooters) is strongly not
recommended by CJPIA. Differing design elements and functional, performance differences
between the various uses make them incompatible and a liability risk. The basic
recommendation is for an unsupervised site with clearly posted signage indicating the skate
plaza's allowed and disallowed uses, along with rules for proper operation. Staff discussed
this issue with SPV, who were agreeable to prohibiting mixed use.
F) Financial/Construction Analysis
SPV confirmed to staff its estimated construction costs for the skate plaza and the afore-
mentioned amenities to be between $650,000 and $/50,000. SPV stated that they had not
done an in-depth cost analysis, but had based their totals on an industry standard of $40 to
$45 per square foot for construction. Pillar Design Studios who created their proposed
design, assisted with the calculations. For comparison's sake, the recently -completed 8,000
square foot skate park at Peck Park cost $800,000, or $100 per square foot.
Staff informed SPV that any potential construction on City land would be overseen by City
personnel and would be subject to prevailing wage requirements. Annual maintenance costs
are estimated at $13,000 annually. City permit fees for the project were roughly estimated at
$12,000 to $15,000, which potentially could be waived if the skate plaza proceeds as a
City/SPV partnership. SPV affirmed that their plan would be to actively fundraise to cover the
project's costs after a formal use agreement was established.
Staff recommends a thorough financial analysis of the project, including construction,
maintenance and operation costs, if Council directs staff to continue working with SPV. Any
potential partnership with SPV would require formal agreements detailing the financial,
insurance, maintenance and dual -use obligations.
G) Visual/Aesthetic/Logistical Concerns
The location selected by SPV is situated very prominently on the property. The design
includes an approximately 4 -foot high wall on the north side of the proposed plaza that could
obscure the view of the skate park and grassy areas for motorists entering and departing the
area. The skate plaza would be the first significant element most visitors would see upon
their arrival at City Hall. Staff also opined to SPV that the location of the plaza's main stage
would not be conducive to events such as the Fourth of July because it is oriented towards
the skate park and not to the main section of the site's grass area. The skate plaza is also
situated in very close proximity to other existing recreational amenities at the park, including
the tennis court, volleyball court and dog park. Use of the skate park may conflict with or
change the user experience at these other facilities, while other features of the project, such
as the permanent restrooms, drinking fountain, picnic tables and additional parking, would
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Point Vicente Skate Park Feasibility
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benefit all park users. SPV was very willing to discuss changing the orientation of the main
stage, re -aligning the existing location, or even relocating the entire venue if necessary.
CONCLUSION
SPV's proposal has significant, but not insurmountable hurdles to overcome if the Council
wishes to move forward with the project. A more in depth financial analysis of the proposal
needs to be conducted to take into account such costs as environmental review, grading, site
preparation or other currently unknown factors; the proposed use was not contemplated as
part of the Council -adopted Coast Vision Plan; visual/logistical concerns would need to be
modified and addressed; and there is a current Parks Master Plan revision in progress that
could alter the overall plan for the property. SPV has reiterated,its willingness to modify and
even relocate its proposal, and they have confirmed their intent to fundraise to cover the costs
of construction and maintenance when and if they enter into a formal agreement with the City.
However, staff has serious reservations about proceeding with such a significant capital
project on a piecemeal basis, without the benefit of an updated Parks Master Plan and the
Coast Vision Plan. Therefore, staff recommends completing the update to these plans prior to
making a decision regarding the SPV skate park proposal.
ALTERNATIVES
1. Direct staff to proceed with the project as currently proposed and to update the Parks
Master Plan and Coast Vision Plan based on this direction.
2.Deny the request to locate a skate park at the Point Vicente Park/Civic Center property.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
SPV's initial proposal indicates that it would bear financial responsibility for the construction of
the skate plaza and maintenance expenses for a ten-year period.
Attachments:
April 15, 2014 Report From Mayor Duhovic
SPV Site Graphics
Excerpt of Coastal Vision Plan
July 8, 2014 NPS/POU Letter
Daily Breeze article regarding Peck Park Skate Park
Skate Park Site Analysis Criteria
122
7-29-14 CC Agenda
Attachment: Skate Park Proposal
April 15, 2105 Report From Mayor Jerry
Du hovic
123
CITY OF
MEMORANDUM
TO: CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
PALOS VERDES
FROM: MAYOR JERRY V. DUHOVIC
DATE: APRIL 15, 2014
SUBJECT: SKATE PARK AT POINT VICENTE PARK/CIVIC
CENTER
REVIEWED: CAROLYNN PETRO, ACTING CITY MANAGED
RECOMMENDATION
Request that Staff, specifically the Director of Recreation and Parks, work with
the SkateparkPV ("SPV") Board of Directors to review, evaluate and modify as
necessary, the skate park proposal by SPV and report back to the City Council
with a recommendation specifically addressing the feasibility of allowing a
privately funded skate park to be constructed on City Hall property.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The SkateparkPV ("SPV") Board of Directors has approached several members of the
current City Council with a proposal to build a privately funded and maintained skate
park on City Hall property. Proponents of the project also attended the March 4th City
Council meeting and addressed the concept during Public Comments. As an advocate
for both passive and active recreation, I am requesting that Staff be directed to work
with the SPV Board of Directors to review, evaluate, and modify as necessary, the
proposal presented by SPV and report back to the City Council with a recommendation
specifically addressing the feasibility of allowing a privately funded skate park to be
constructed on City Hall property.
BACKGROUND
Over the years, there have been many discussions, requests and studies with respect
to constructing a skate park facility within the city of Rancho Palos Verdes. Much of the
previous work entailed the City funding a portion, if not all of the cost associated with
the construction and/or maintenance of such a facility. The current proposal by SPV
envisions the City contributing only the location and Staff time to this endeavor.
124
In 2010, the City engaged an outside third -parry consultant, Mia Leher, to address the
feasibility of and recommend locations for both a skate park and a dog park facility.
That engagement was ultimately terminated when the City initiated the Rancho Caninos
"temporary" dog park at City Hall. The City Council discontinued the contract with Mia
Lehrer on June 19, 2012, directing Staff to suspend work on the skate park project
pending the outcome of efforts to construct similar facilities at Ernie Howlett Park in
Rolling Hills Estates and at Peck Park in San Pedro.
I will not address all of the prior efforts with respect to a skate park facility in Rancho
Palos Verdes at this time. The record speaks for itself and the facts and circumstances
at this point in time are different.
DISCUSSION
I believe the idea of constructing a privately funded and maintained skate park on City
Hall property, as long as the project does not conflict with the Civic Center Master Plan,
has merit and should be brought forward for further discussion/debate. This is the first
step in that process.
As a brief summary, the SPV Board of Directors proposes to construct a privately
funded and maintained skate park on City Hall property. A conceptual rendering is
attached depicting the facility being constructed in the lawn area between the existing
tennis court and main parking lot serving City Hall, although other areas on the property
may also be considered.
SPV proposes the construction of a skate -able multi -use plaza of approximately 15,000
sq. ft. with the following specifics/parameters:
• Construction of up to 19 asphalt lined parking spaces;
• Construction of a solid, grouted concrete block, steel door, restroom facility -
approximately 10' x12;
• Construction of at least two concrete picnic style bench tables (as shown on
www.skateparkov.oral;
• Construction of at least one large plaza interior planter;
• Construction of a raised seating/platform area that could easily be used as an
amphitheater or stage;
• Installation of a permanent drinking fountain;
• Running empty electrical/water conduit should the city wish to utilize it at a later
date;
• Rehabilitation of the City Hall Tennis Court surface and fencing;
• Relocation of the City Hall Volleyball Court, if necessary; and
• Deposit of funds into an escrow account to cover maintenance costs for 10 years
(amount to be determined by Staff). Said amount to be replenished annually to
maintain the required reserve level.
Again please note that all of the aforementioned improvements will be paid for by SPV.
V:\CAROLYNN\REPORTS\2014\20140415_DuhovicSkate Park Study Session Report ver4.doc
125
ALTERNATIVES
Take no action.
FISCAL IMPACT
The fiscal impact of approving the above recommendation is minimal. The only cost
should be the contribution of Staff time as described above.
Attachment:
Skate Park PV proposed site plan
V.\CAROLYNN\REPORTS12014120140415 Duhovic Skate Park Study Session Report ver4.doc
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UPPER POINT VICENTE
This site is zoned Open Space Recreation. Designated
as Point Vicente Park/Civic Center, the site was
formerly a Nike Missile Base, and presently includes
and surrounds the City's civic center complex. Existing
facilities are housed in former school buildings and
temporary buildings. The surrounding grounds are
improved with a sand volleyball court, tennis court,
open grass areas, a picnic table and barbecue. With
spectacular views of the ocean and Catalina Island,
this site is the location of community gatherings such
as the City's annual July 4th Independence Day
Celebration. The site encompasses 22 acres and abuts
a 4 acre Coast Guard parcel to the west. It is otherwise
surrounded by Preserve lands that wrap around the site
to Palos Verdes Drive, A farming operation exists on the
southern facing slope below the site, which is operated
in a lease agreement.
Nearly 27,500 square feet of building area is currently
developed on the site, including the City of Rancho
Palos Verdes City Hall offices, studio facilities for PV
On the Net, and temporary modular buildings for the PV
Seniors, The City Maintenance Yard is also located on
the site. There are 88 existing paved parking spaces
provided on-site. The site also incorporates a helipad
used by emergency services providers.
SITE GOALS
As a result of the public Vision Plan process, and
discussion with City staff and elected leadership, the
following goals have been established for the concept
design for this site;
Advance the conceptual design or the Upper Point
Vicente site based on the modified'Civic Center
Conceptual Site Plan' (as presented to the City
Council April 18, 2006, and included in the Appendix
to this document)
The site shall be able to accommodate an Arts/
Cultural Center, City Council Chamber and City
Hall, a pool/gymnasium complex, a village green,
centralized parking and an amphitheater.
Ensure that the Civic Center is connected by a
network of high quality, vibrant public landscapes
and is visually integrated into the surrounding
Preserve hand
Link Upper Point Vicente into the City's trail system
and to other major destinations in the City
Implement an integrated, context sensitive approach
to access and parking for all users
SITE CONCEPT PLAN
Fl s-,ory
The concept plan for this site has evolved throughout
this Vision Plan process. The site was originally
the study of the City's Open Space Task Force,
which produced a plan incorporating a wide range
of community and recreational uses. This plan was
considered in this Vision Plan process, however,
direction was provided by the Rancho Palos Verdes
City Manager to include a narrow range of uses in this
concept plan. This approach was endorsed by the City
Council during the public Vision Plan process. Iterations
were considered, and interested site user groups were
interviewed. Finally, a phased approach to implement
the concept design was proposed, and is described
below and illustrated to the right.
Phased Approach
The concept design depicts a phased, short-, medium-,
APPROVED - 2. 2008
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and long-term approach to the site development. In the
short-term, positive impact would result from simply
moving the Maintenance Yard (shown at 80,000 sf) to
the east, and creating a consolidated open space area
in the center of the site. At this early stage, a trailhead
serving the adjacent Preserve trails could also be
added, together with trail connections and associated
picnic areas around the bluff edge of the site.
In the medium-term, a Village Green (depicted at 1.7
acres in size), which could also accommodate an
amphitheater [3], Veteran's Memorial and/or public
art, as well as the City's 4th of July celebration, might
be created, together with a cultural center (shown at
30,000 sf on two levels) which could host activities
relating to the arts including studio and gallery space,
class and performance space, both indoors and
outdoors; a community center complex (shown at
20,000 sf on two levels), which might accommodate
meeting space for community groups, recreational
facilities, classroom space and a full sized recreational
pool (50m x 25m),
In the long-term, a City Hall complex (shown at 36,000
sf on two levels) could be developed, incorporating
administrative facilities and a Council Chamber. Further.
the City's Maintenance Yard could be relocated off site,
freeing space for other open space or developed uses.
At this stage consolidated parking could be developed,
in a structure partially below grade, which might enable
additional open space or other site uses, including
areas for active recreation, to be created.
Maintaining the Site Character
Though this site is one of three within the Vision Plan
identified to accommodate new public uses within the
Rancho Palos Verdes Coast, the vision statement
and goals developed for this Plan, as well as the
design guidance material included in Chapter 5 of
this document, clearly recommend open space and
view preservation within the Rancho Palos Verdes
Coast, as well as context sensitive building and site
design. Ultimately, at each phase of concept design
implementation, the site should retain its park like
setting and precious ocean views, and provide access
into the adjoining Preserve trail system.
Recommendations for Irnpierrler,tatic�r;
Initiate a formal master plan of the site, including
market analysis relating to potential arts and
recreation facilities, a space program to serve a
range of possible uses and user groups, a parking
needs analysis related to the potential users,
and incorporate the utility study presently being
undertaken for the site.
Immediately pursue funding sources (grants, etc.) to
implement the on-site trailhead and trail connections
on site, as well as to relocate and reconfigure the
City's Maintenance Yard.
Research potential off-site locations suitable for the
Cays maintenance yard
APPROVED - Seprerrlt)& 2 200-
139
7-29-14 CC Agenda
Attachment: Skate Park Proposal
July 8, 2014 NPS/POU Letter
CITY OFRAf ICHO PALOSVERDES
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
8 July 2014
David Siegenthaler
Federal Lands to Parks Program
National Park Service, Pacific West Region
333 Bush St., Ste. 500
San Francisco, CA 94104-2828
SUBJECT: Proposal for Revised Location of 6.6 -Acre Active Recreation Area
under the Program of Utilization for LADA Nike Site 55, Point Vicente,
Rancho Palos Verdes (GSA No. 9 -Calif -D-1088)
Dear Mr. Siegenthaler:
As you may recall, last December I discussed with you a proposal to relocate the 6.6 -acre
active recreational use area identified in the Program of Utilization (POU) from its current
location along the northerly boundary of the lower portion of Point Vicente Park/Civic
Center to the upper portion of the park adjacent to the existing City Hall facilities. To
maximize the City's opportunities at the site, the City is interested in exploring the
possibility of rearranging area designations on the site (i.e., "active recreation" vs.
"passive recreation" designations), provided that the general conditions of the POU are
maintained. Enclosed is a copy of Figure 6 from the POU, depicting the approximate
location and extent of the designated active recreation area in red.
During our telephone conversation in December 2013, you indicated that you believed
that the relocation of the active recreation area would not require a "formal" amendment
to the POU. Therefore, the City of Rancho Palos Verdes now presents our proposal for
the relocated active recreation area for your review and concurrence.
The areas outlined in yellow in the enclosed diagram encompass just under 6.6 acres of
the upper portion of the park site, while the areas that are shaded in blue are those that
are not subject to the use restrictions imposed under the POU. The areas to be included
within the active recreation area include the existing tennis and sand volleyball courts, as
well as undeveloped portions of the park that are often used for community events and
overflow parking. The proposed active recreation area boundaries would mesh with those
of the existing unrestricted area of the property, and would also avoid encroachment into
the City's nature preserve (shaded in green in the enclosed exhibits). Currently, the
30940 HAWTHORNF RIMA / RANCHO Himns VERUFs, CA 90275-5391 / (310) 544-5205 / FAX (310) 544-5291
1 --MAIL. CLCIIRORPVCOM / WWW.PAI-0SVI;R0E5C0M/RPV
PRINTED ON RKAGLED PAPER
141
David Siegenthaler
8 July 2014
Page 2
designated 6.6 -acre active recreational use area is located almost wholly within the nature
reserve. Allowing the relocation of the designated 6.6 -acre active recreation area to the
upper portion of the site would:
Place the upper portions of the park that are already used for active recreation and
community purposes within the active recreation area;
Protect the integrity of the City's nature preserve by removing the active recreation
designation within the lower portion of the park; and,
Provide the City with greater flexibility for the future use and development of the
unrestricted portions of the park site.
The City of Rancho Palos Verdes respectfully seeks your written concurrence (on behalf
of the National Park Service) with the relocation of the 6.6 -acre active recreational area
at LADA Nike Site 55, as described herein and depicted in the enclosed exhibits. If you
have any questions or need additional information, please contact Senior Administrative
Analyst Kit Fox at (310) 544-5226 or kltf@rpv.com.
Sincerely,
Carolynn etru
Acting City Manager
enclosures
cc: Cory Linder, Director of Recreation & Parks
Kit Fox, Senior Administrative Analyst
MAMunicipal FacilitloslCivic Center Master PI2nQO140708 sieagenthaler_ActiveReereation.doex
.M
l
Provide 100' Buffer from
Emergency Helipad -
Existing ±6.6 -Acre Active Recreation Area (Approximate)
LADA NIKE Site 55, Point Vicente, Rancho Palos Verdes (GSA No. 9 -D -Calif -1088)
144
7-29-14 CC Agenda
Attachment: Skate Park Proposal
July 18, 2014 Peck Park Skate Park
Daily Breeze Article
145
Long-awaited Peck Park skate park almost ready to open in San Pedro
Skater Riley Stevens hits one of the jumps at the barely completed Peck Park Skate Park in San Pedro on Thursday, July 17, 2014 during a
video shoot for Councilman Buscaino's invite for the Grand Opening which will be held on Friday, August 15, at 5:30pm.
By Donna l.ittleiohn. The Daily Breeze
Posted: 07/18/14, 7:56 PM PD'f I Updated: 3 days ago
Construction of a new skatepark at Peck Park in San Pedro is complete but still needs perimeter landscaping before it officially opens in early August.
Thursday, July 17, 2014, San Pedro, CA. (Steve McCrank / Staff Photographer)
San Pedro's new skate plaza at Peck Park won't open for another couple of weeks.
But that hasn't stopped skaters from getting beyond the fencing to give the new attraction along Western Avenue a preliminary spin.
While the grand opening is set for 5:30 p.m. Aug. 15, skaters can't seem to resist the temptation now that the plaza is finished, awaiting only some
perimeter landscaping.
"They're trying it out," said Mark Mariscal, region superintendent with the Los Angeles' Department of Recreation and Parks, who said park officials
chased out about 20 skaters earlier this week.
But they were back within hours.
Because the plaza isn't open yet, however, liability issues loom, leading park and police officials to adopt a more hard-line approach in the days to
come. From now on, police will be citing skaters with fines.
City officials hope to resolve the matter by establishing an unofficial "soft" opening sometime before the Aug. 15 ceremony.
Andy Harris of the San Pedro Skatepark Association, said the eagerness is to be expected considering how long local skaters have lobbied for a facility
at Peck Park. The idea was first floated some 15 years ago.
http://www.dailybreeze.com/lifestyle/20l407l 8/long-awaited-peck-park-skate-park-almost... 7/22/2014146
Long-awaited Peck Park skate park almost ready to open in San Pedro
"That's what they get for taking as long as they did," said Harris, who served as an adviser on the design. "I don't know what they would expect."
The city finally began soliciting feedback on a skate park design in 2010.
With the strong backing of the Northwest San Pedro Neighborhood Council and Los Angeles Councilman Joe Buscaino, a groundbreaking for the
$800,000 skate plaza was held in Fehruaty 2013 with the anticipation that it could be completed by fall the same year.
Judging by the growing popularity of the Instagram hashtag #peckparkskatepark, Harris said, the plaza is destined to be a much -used attraction.
With several contiguous bowls, the design has something for everyone, from beginners to experts, Harris said.
It will become the 22nd skate nark built in the city of Los Angeles.
"It's a lot more dynamic" than skate parks constructed in earlier eras, Harris said. "It's much more in line with the real top-notch skate parks in the
Pacific Northwest."
The original square footage, however, was pared down a bit from original plans, Harris said.
Originally, he said, the idea was to make it a hybrid design with both bowl and sirectscape elements, such as rails and other structures characteristic of
an urban street that draws skaters.
"We lost some square footage, which was kind of a bummer," Harris said. "That made us change the design a little bit from a hybrid street -and -bowl
design to pretty much just bowl skating."
I Iarris thought that among the challenges in building the skate plaza at the site chosen by the city was the slight grade in the topography. The area
where the plaza was built is on the far western perimeter of the rambling city park that features picnic areas, basketball courts, hiking trails, baseball
diamonds, a gymnasium and an outdoor swimming pool.
Craig Raines, the city landscape architect who oversaw much of the project, said the size wasn't changed by a significant amount, although the design
was "tweaked."
The plaza is about 8,000 square feet.
Anticipating problems with tagging, city officials already have worked out a plan with Harris' group to provide needed supplies so users of the plaza
will be responsible for painting out any graffiti that appears.
San Pedro's only other skate park — under a freeway overpass at Channel Street — was constructed by skaters years ago with no formal approvals
from either the city or the California Department of Transportation, which owns the property.
That park is scheduled to close down temporarily this fall for a year -and -a -half so improvements can be made to the overpass. But Harris said it will
reopen after that, with plans to apply for grant money to beautify the landscaping around the area.
Financing for the new plaza at Peck Park came from city Quimby funds, fees collected from developers to provide more parks and open space.
The'ronv Hawk Foundation also donated $27.000 toward the project, bringing with it recognition from the popular skateboarding legend. Tbc
foundation will be on hand for the ribbon -cutting, Harris said, but it is not known whether Hawk will attend.
I larris said skaters would love to see another plaza at perhaps Angels Gate Park or maybe along San Pedro's redeveloped waterfront, where some of
the hoped-for urban streetscape elements could be incorporated.
Despite the paring down of size in the original plans, region superintendent Mariscal said the plaza will be "one of our bigger" skate parks.
About the Author
http://www.dailybreeze.com/lifestyle/20140718/long-awaited-peck-park-skate-park-almost... 7/22/2014 147
7-29-14 CC Agenda
Attachment: Skate Park Proposal
Skate Park Site Analysis Criteria
Skate Park Site Analysis Critieria
As part of their preliminary research on potential skate park sites, ML+A consulting firm
prepared a draft list of Skate Park Selection Critieria. ML+A noted that it was unlikely
that any one site would match all of the criteria listed above. The following is a brief
review of how SPV's proposal matches the criteria.
Land Use
1) Compatible zoning and general plan designation: Discussed above.
Site Conditions/Existing Use Compatibility
1) Adequate Space for 14,000-15, 000 sf minimum skate park and dimensions:
SPV's design is preliminary and its precise dimensions have not been analyzed
by staff.
2) Suitable soil and geology: Has not been studied for this particular proposal.
3) Does not damage natural or cultural resources: The proposed design would
reduce the size of the existing grass area.
4) Does not displace an existing recreation element or program: The proposal
could displace the sand volleyball court. SPV's proposal calls for them to
relocate the court if necessary.
5) Minimal conflict with other users/activities: There is minimal activity in that area,
except for cultural events such as the 4t" of July. SPV has stated that the skate
plaza could be used for such events.
6) Flat to gentle, rolling topography: Yes, although significant grading would be
required.
7) Positive drainage into natural or existing drainage system: Site currently drains
properly. Drainage has not been studied for this particular proposal.
8) Appropriate surfaces (minimal demolition required): Yes.
Location
1) Site centralized to where users congregate: Site is located at a public park,
although site is not currently frequented by skateboarders.
2) Close to commercial and/or institutional activity: Located near to City Hall,
Salvation Army, and the Golden Cove Shopping Mall.
Accessibility
1) Existing bus access (near bus route or existing stop): yes
2) Skateboarding proximity to skate park: Steepness of Hawthorne Boulevard
makes skateboard access difficult and raises concerns about the dangerous
practice of high-speed "skate bombing"
3) Biking proximity: Hawthorne Boulevard is a popular, although strenuous bike
route due to its steep incline.
Me
4) Driving proximity to skate park: While not centrally located in the City, the site is
easily accessible by car.
5) Proximity to a major arterial road: yes
6) Potential for auto drop-off yes
7) Site ADA compliant: ADA compliance would be a necessary factor in the design
and construction of the skate plaza, parking space, restroom and other amenities
Neighborhood Compatibility
1) Minimal conflict with neighborhood uses (e.g. avoiding noise and physical
conflicts): The proposed site is not adjacent to any residences. Potential noise
impacts have not been assessed. Night-time skating would not be permitted.
2) No obstruction of protected views. To be determined. The sunken design of the
proposal would minimize view impact. SPV's proposal includes an approximately
four -foot high wall above current grade. Impact on residents would likely be
minimal, although view of arriving and departing motorist could be impacted.
Health and Safety
1) Protected from major arterial roads: Yes
2) Emergency vehicle access: Yes
3) Maintenance crew accessibility: Yes
4) Good visibility for public surveillance and safety: Site is in open area of Point
Vicente Park -visibility and lighting needs further review.
5) Restricted night access to vehicles to prevent skateboarding by car lights:
Potential design concern, Point Vicente Park is currently accessible at night.
150