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Staff Report
CFFY OF MEMORANDUM I -A RANCHO PALOS VERDES TO: HONORABLE MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: CORY LINDER, DIRECTOR, RECREATION AND PARKS DATE: JUNE 30, 2015 SUBJECT: PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE REVIEWED: DOUG WILLMORE, CITY MANAGE VW Staff Coordinator: Matt Waters, Senior Administrative Analyst, Recreation and Park %�, RECOMMENDATION 1) Review the draft Parks Master Plan Update; 2) Accept public input on the draft Plan; 3) Provide staff with direction; and, 4) Continue the matter to a future date for formal adoption. INTRODUCTION The purpose of the 2015 Parks Master Plan Update (PMPU) is to update the 1989 Parks Master Plan and to set forth a comprehensive strategy for addressing the future planning of the City's parks, recreation, and open space resources. The PMPU will function as a living document to help guide and respond to changes in the City's future park, open space and recreational needs. The PMPU presents updated information on each of the City's Park sites and identifies specific and general recommendations, but at its core it is a strategic document, not a series of construction blueprints. Significant park projects will still need to go through separate design and planning processes, public outreach efforts and City Council review and approval. BACKGROUND The City's existing Parks Master Plan was adopted on October 17, 1989 and has not been updated since that time. The 1989 Plan included a citizen survey, public workshops, meetings with special interest groups, written correspondence, and contact with homeowners associations and individual residents. The resulting Plan contains an extensive list of policies, goals and recommendations regarding the park and recreational needs of the community, as well as factual 1 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 2 information and recommended improvements for each park site in the City. (Appendix A: 1989 Parks Master Plan Update) There have been many parks and open space changes and additions since the adoption of the 1989 Master Plan Update. The City has acquired several new park sites and significant open space areas, including the now 1,450 acre Palos Verdes Nature Preserve. There have been attempts since 1989 to update the Parks Master Plan. The most comprehensive attempt occurred in 2002 when the City Council expanded the seven -member Recreation and Parks Committee into an eighteen -member Open Space Planning, and Recreation & Parks Task Force (Task Force). The Task Force, whose membership included a broad spectrum of interests concerning the recreation, parks and open space issues affecting the community, was charged with investigating all of the City's existing resources and unmet needs, and advising the City Council on updating the 1989 Parks Master Plan, including making recommendations for utilization of City parks and open space properties. The Task Force, which organized itself into eight subcommittees, presented a strategic plan to the City Council in 2004. The plan, which included dozens of recommendations for park sites and an extensive set of recreation options for the Upper Point Vicente/Civic Center property in particular, was not adopted by City Council and the Task Force was officially dissolved in 2005. (Appendix B Open Space Planning and Recreation & Parks Task Force Report). More recently, the Coast Vision Plan was adopted by the City Council on September 2, 2008. The Coast Vision Plan represented over two years of planning and an extensive public outreach effort to create an informational planning document for the City's coastal areas. The Coast Vision Plan includes the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve and five additional sites: Upper Point Vicente, Lower Point Vicente, Abalone Cove, Gateway, and Del Cerro. The Plan also addressed improvements and recommendations related to public access, interpretive materials, and recreational amenities and facilities to improve the experience of the coast and open space areas for residents and visitors. While many of the Coast Vision Plan recommendations have not been significantly affected by developments since its adoption, several sites have been impacted by subsequent actions including the Annenberg Foundation's withdrawal of its proposed development project in 2011 and the Council's conceptual approval of including a skate park at Upper Point Vicente in 2014. (Appendix C: Coast Vision Plan w/ Amendments) The Coast Vision Plan was updated in 2012 to remove the Annenberg Proposal at Lower Point Vicente. A public outreach process is currently underway to develop an updated plan for Lower Point Vicente that would be incorporated into the Council -adopted Coast Vision Plan. Once the 2015 Parks Master Plan Update (PMPU) is adopted, the impacted elements of the Coastal Vision Plan will also need to be updated. Then -Councilwoman Susan Brooks submitted a City Council Study Session report on May 20, 2014 recommending that staff provide an update to the 1989 Parks Master Plan. Her report stated that "This Plan would be presented to Council and the public for input and feedback regarding the future of our parks and their corresponding programs. This undertaking might require a large amount of staff time and resources, as various communities would be contacted for input and potential Town Hall meetings will likely occur." 05 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 3 Subsequently at the July 29, 2014 City Council Meeting, the Council discussed a proposal for a skate plaza to potentially be located on the grounds of Point Vicente Park/Civic Center. The staff report noted that "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 Master Plan update. This update will include Point Vicente Park. Council may wish to consider including SPV's (Skatepark Palos Verdes) proposal as part of the master plan process." City Council provided updated direction to staff to complete an update of the City's 1989 Park Master Plan that would provide a comprehensive strategy for addressing the future use of the City's parks, recreation and open space resources. The update would consolidate plans that currently exist for a number of major park sites, while being consistent with the City's General Plan and other guiding documents. Skatepark PV's proposal for a skate plaza at Point Vicente Park/Civic Center would also be considered as part of the update effort. DISCUSSION Public Outreach Process A robust public outreach process was undertaken which included the following components: • Mass mailing to all City residences in October 2014 • Updates on the City's Website • Creation of a Parks Master Plan Update City Webpage • Multiple Listsery messages • Multiple Notifications on Facebook and Nextdoor • Online Recreation Activity Guides • Public Banners • Press Releases • Notifications to Homeowner Associations • Mailings to residences adjacent to parks discussed at public workshops • Contacting stakeholders and interested parties The two major components of the public outreach process were a series of twelve public workshops held from November 2014 through February 2015 and an informal online survey, conducted using the online survey website, Survey Monkey. The facilitated public workshops focused on particular park sites and were designed to obtain detailed feedback on current and possible uses at each location. Two workshops each were held for five park sites: Eastview Park, Ladera Linda Park, Point Vicente Park/Civic Center, Upper Hesse Park, and Gateway Park. The public workshop process concluded with two general workshops which covered the five focus parks sites, as well as all other park sites and open space areas. While public workshops tend to attract people who live near to a particular site or have an interest 3 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 4 in a particular recreation topic, a survey generates more general, community -wide responses to a series of recreation topics. The online survey was approved by the City Council and was subsequently completed by 743 respondents from November 21, 2015 to its closing on March 15, 2015. Questions ranged from general attitudes about parks and open space topics to very specific questions about support for components at Ladera Linda Park and Point Vicente Park/Civic Center. This was not a professional survey or statistically valid, but its results did provide many useful insights. The following is an overview of the findings and conclusions of the 2014-15 Parks Master Plan Update public outreach process. A more thorough analysis of the public outreach effort can be found in the attached Parks Master Plan Update. Appendix D has the complete public outreach documents including online survey results, all emails received, public workshop "tape dot" exercises, meeting summaries and comment card results. Online Survey Analysis 743 total responses were received from November 2014 through March 2015. 87% of respondents indicated that they lived in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. Responses were received from all sections of the City. 75% of respondents rated the City's Recreation and Parks Department as either "great" or "good" on its ability to provide physical parks and facilities to the public. Sixty-two percent rated the Department as "great" or "good" on its ability to provide recreation programs, activities and events. Overall, how would you rate the City of Overall, how would you rate the City of Rancho Palos Verdes Recreation and Parks Rancho Palos Verdes Recreation and Parks Department in its ability to provide physical Department in its ability to provide physical parks and facilities to the public? Check parks and facilities to the public? Check the appropriate circle. the appropriate circle. Answered: 736 Skippea:7 Arrewerztl: 736 3kipp l:7 Great Great coda caea Aaequs[e M Aaequa4e Fair , Fair Not meellrq, Not meeting, expectations enpectationa 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% M% l0% 60% W% IW% 0% 10% 2D% 3D% 40% 50% 60% 7U% W% 90% 1W% Respondents were asked to indicate their general address by filling in their cross streets. Below is a graphic represenation of RPV resident respondent locations. Larger circles indicate a higher number of respondents from particular cross streets. The lowest level of responses came from the eastern section of the City while the most responses came from the southern area near Ladera Linda and the northwest section of the City. al Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 5 CROSS STRE T5 - TORRANCE LOMITA f— PALO VERDES ESTATES oL u ROLLING HILLS ESTATES V o� ROLLIhJO HILLS ii O No. of People ;, LAS AN = E: 32 t — --J i i 16-17 13-15 11-12 9-10 N 7-8 5-6 C 3-4 1-2 Miles 0 0.35 0.7 1.4 In order to get a sense of how survey respondents spend their leisure time, a number of recreation activities and options were presented. Respondents were asked to check all activities that they participated in on a monthly basis. Not surprisingly, given the City's emphasis on open space and trails, 87% of respondents selected "hiking, walking and jogging" which was by far the most popular choice. Other notable results include "Swimming" (29%), "Going to the beach" (56%), "Skateboarding" (22%), "Using a dog park " (29%), "Working Out at a Gym" (36%), "road biking" (19%), "picnicking or relaxing at a local park" (40%), "Tennis" (15%), "Participating in senior programs" (14%), and `Mountain biking" (11 %). 5 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 6 I_avrc3ee Surnng F rseta riding ■ G:Igg Cr±1>1a teach Ska en-oarding UBIng.9rk VFbrkbV Gut at a Byrn F&-rbclpabng In senlcar_.. Gcfnng Rcad biking it Picnicking or raxing at ... Tennis Pw Parbopabng In an RPV_.. Adeno I r a _ RPV aRBI c=... Nlrwntaln Mirrg Playlrig baseball P13ying :?ac--,er PIs�'Ing ElOriaall playing res ll Playing 41% 141% 20% 3056 40°1 SCS E+0% w 80% . 1aC°4 m Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 7 The survey revealed moderate support for developing additional recreation elements such as playing fields and basketball or tennis courts (44% support/33% don't support) and greater support for building physical facilities such as a community center, gym, pool, or children's playground (52% support/30% don't support). Development of additional playing fields and outdoor recreation elements such as basketball or tennis courts i4na'Avfad: 717 Wpped:2G oon4 ayipat — H— xo oppmun 1-0% 20% 30% 401% 51% FA`.< _e 61% ;Ch 11_': Building of physical recreation facilities such as a community center, gymnasium, pool or children's playground 6neNY:rM 7V-ipd&7: i. Support Ca:n'[ support — Hagew"pCo n _ . 1.'i 29% 3G% 40% 51 W% 7v% a3% 9M 10G% Public support for preserving undeveloped land for wildlife and natural habitat remains strong at 82% with only 7% not supporting the idea. This high level of support for open space dovetails with the 87% of respondents who say they hike or walk on a monthly basis, as well as respondents who ride horses (8%) or go mountain biking (11 %). A significant portion of the survey focused on two sites: Point Vicente Park/Civic Center (City Hall) and Ladera Linda Community Center. Point Vicente Park/Civic Center was selected because a large percentage of its flat, developable area is currently undeveloped and it has been the focus of previous planning processes including the Coast Vision Plan and Open Space Task Force efforts. Ladera Linda Community Center was selected because it has been identified in the City's Capital Improvement Plan as being a candidate for renovation or demolition/rebuilding because of the poor condition of its buildings and infrastructure. Point Vicente Park/Civic Center: Online Survey Results Survey respondents were asked to indicate whether they supported, didn't support or had no opinion about various possible components at Point Vicente Park/Civic Center. The components that received the highest level of support were a band shell or amphitheater, skate park, village green, permanent dog park, and a children's playground. A chart of survey response is shown below. 7 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 8 Point Vicente Park/Civic Center Survey Responses Below is a summary of survey open-ended questions regarding Point Vicente ParkCivic Center. The topics that received the most positive responses were skate park, pool, dog park, various sports related suggestions, and open space/trails issues. Online Survey: Point Vicente Survey Open Ended SUMMARY SupparR Don't Sup part No Opinion Building a nILIltiple-spoit gymna5Wrn 33.24% 42.42% 74.U% Building an outdoor swimming pool 37.41% 43.53% 19.0s% Adding more outdoor tennis or paddle tennis courts 29.07% 41.31% 29.62% Building a bared shell or amphitheater SS.os% 23.64% 21 Building a skate park 42.569M6 41,86% 15. Adding: playing fields for soccer, baseball and other field sports 37.97% 35,53% 26.15% Creating a village green with gardens and walkways 62.03% 16.97% 11% Providing a permanent dog park 51.60% 30.74% 17.&6%— 7.Building Bu i I di ngwalking paths with f itness stations 67.45% 17.25% 15 Building outdoor basketball courts 34.7796 35.47% 29.76- Building bocce ball courts 27.82% 35.61% 36.59% Building a children's playground 51.74% 23.64% 24.61% Building a tricycle park for tots 28.7996 40.79% 34 Building an arts/cultural center 34.77% 39.39% 26. Below is a summary of survey open-ended questions regarding Point Vicente ParkCivic Center. The topics that received the most positive responses were skate park, pool, dog park, various sports related suggestions, and open space/trails issues. Online Survey: Point Vicente Survey Open Ended SUMMARY # of comments 1. Pro -Skateboard park 24 2. No skateboard park 4 3. Pro -Pool 9 4. Pro -Dog park 7 5. Sports Related 25 6. Open Spaces/Trails Hiking/Nature/Gardens 29 7. Equestrian 2 8. Community Center/Youth Activities/Facility Rentals 15 9. Seniors 4 10. Youth 4 11. General Facility/Maintenance 11 12. Miscellaneous 11 Ladera Linda Park: Online Survey Results Ladera Linda Combined Survey Responses Survey respondents were asked to indicate whether they supported, didn't support or had no opinion about various possible components at Ladera Linda Park. The components that received Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 9 the highest level of support were walking paths, an expanded nature center, athletic fields and a new community center. A chart of survey response is shown below. Below is a summary of open-ended survey questions regarding Ladera Linda Park. Clearly showing some direct correlation with responses to the Point Vicente Park/Civic Center responses, the most popular answers were skate park, pool, dog park, various sports related suggestions, and open space/trails issues. Many respondents advocated for new and enhanced community center, and improved park amenities, security and increased maintenance. Online Survey: Ladera Linda Survey Open Ended SUMMARY Supp art Don't Support No Opinion New community Center atWJg_U Linda 37.96% 27.31% 34.7336 Walking paths with fitness stations 65.4196 13.45% 21.15% Gymnasium 29.2746 38.24% 32.49% Additional Paddle tennis Courts (currently hvo) 17.65% 40,06% 42.3036 Tennis Courts [currently none] 35.01% 30.81% 34.17% Bocce Ball Court(s) 27.7396 29.69% 42.5536 Expanded Nature Center 51.5496 20,17% 28.29% Athletic Fields 47.2046 22.41% 30.39'96 Indoor Pool 32.9146 41.60% 25.4936 Outdoor Pool 33.75% 40.34% 25.91% Tricycle Park. for Tots 31.51% 30,81% 37.6896 Below is a summary of open-ended survey questions regarding Ladera Linda Park. Clearly showing some direct correlation with responses to the Point Vicente Park/Civic Center responses, the most popular answers were skate park, pool, dog park, various sports related suggestions, and open space/trails issues. Many respondents advocated for new and enhanced community center, and improved park amenities, security and increased maintenance. Online Survey: Ladera Linda Survey Open Ended SUMMARY # of comments 1. Pro -Skateboard park 38 2. No skateboard park 2 3. Pro -Pool 16 4. No pool 4 5. Pro -Dog park 14 6. Sports Related 27 7. Open Spaces/Trails/Hiking/Nature/Gardens 22 8. Equestrian 7 9. Community Center 5 10. Youth 11 11. Security Concerns 6 12. General Facility/Maintenance 15 13. Miscellaneous 6 Online Survey Open -Ended Questions The survey concluded with two open-ended questions. The first was "In your opinion what is the single most important thing the City of Rancho Palos Verdes Recreation and Parks Department can do to improve the quality of life for its residents?" 474 people responded. The open-ended nature of the question generated a wide range of responses. Sixty people mentioned skate parks, the great majority in favor. Approximately fifteen responses were pro dog -park. The most 0 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 10 common response category with over 140 entries was open space/nature/trails responses with the majority expressing variants of maintaining and preserving open space and trails. There were also many requests for additional recreational amenities and programs for youth and seniors. Online Survey: Single Most Important Issue SUMMARY # of comments 1. Pro -Skateboard park 60 2. No skateboard park 1 3. Pro -Pool 42 4. No pool 2 5. Pro -Dog park 16 6.Sports Related 32 7. Open Spaces/Trails/Hiking/Nature/Gardens 149 8. Equestrian 5 9. Community Center/Facility Rentals 35 9. Seniors 15 10. Youth 14 11. General Facility/Maintenance 25 12. Parking Issues 26 13. Security Concerns 20 14. Miscellaneous 55 The last question of the survey allowed respondents to offer anything else they wished to share. Responses were similar to the previous question, but with a marked increase in responses opposed to Gateway Park and requesting that something be done to mitigate parking impacts in the Del Cerro neighborhood. Online Survey: Any Additional Response SUMMARY # of comments 1. Pro -Skateboard park 28 2. No skateboard park 6 3. Pro -Pool 18 4. No pool 1 5. Pro -Dog Park 18 6. Sports Related 11 7. Open Spaces/Trails/Hiking/Nature/Gardens 27 8. Equestrian 4 9. Community Center/Facility Rentals 21 10. Youth 4 11. Seniors 2 12. General Facility/Maintenance 21 13. Parking Issues 22 14. Security Concerns 6 15. Miscellaneous 32 10 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 11 Public Workshop Analysis Workshops were held about five parks sites (Eastview, Ladera Linda, Gateway, Upper Hesse Park, Point Vicente Park/Civic Center) two meetings were held per site, in addition to two general workshops. The results from these workshops are summarized below. Eastview Park Two public workshops were held regarding Eastview Park at Peck Park in San Pedro on November 5, 2014 and January 14, 2015. The most -discussed topic by far was a proposed fenced dog park. Attendees at the first workshop were fairly receptive to the idea and favored a plan that located it near the commercial shopping center on the western part of the park, away from the homes on the eastside of the park. Attendees at the second workshop were strongly opposed to the dog park. Elements that received support were shade structures, improved picnic area, and wide walking paths. Fitness stations received mixed reviews, while a dog park, allowing moon bounces and BBQs received the lowest level support. Many attendees reported incidents of dogs off leash. Concerns were raised about maintenance, feral cats, graffiti, and occasional vandalism. A consistent desire was expressed to maintain the park's low-key neighborhood feel. Below is a chart showing Eastview Workshop attendee responses. Eastview Park Public Workshop Exercise Results Shy Sttudures Fitness Statloru Picnk Areas Ch U P.er k e8as Vu" der Wakir. - Pa r F.;,. ■ Great Ilea It's OK ■ So So r No Gateway Park The two Gateway Park workshops which were held at Ladera Linda Park on December 3, 2014 and February 4, 2015 were the most well -attended and liveliest of all the public workshops. Approximately 80 people attended each workshop. A majority of speakers and attendees spoke out against the Gateway Park project. A number of attendees from the Del Cerro neighborhood spoke in favor of the project and expressed frustration at the traffic and congestion issues they were experiencing near the Portuguese Bend Nature Reserve trailhead. While many Gateway 11 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 12 opponents were sympathetic to the Del Cerro issue, they raised a number of concerns about Gateway Park: Safety, particularly considering a drowning death and numerous rescues in July 2014 ➢ Access and traffic safety ➢ Neighborhood impact ➢ Social media and rising attendance at the Preserve and beaches ➢ Doubts regarding effectiveness in relieving Del Cerro congestion ➢ Questions about the availability of other parking lots ➢ Enforcement concerns ➢ Concerns that people would not utilize Gateway Park to access the Preserve, but would cross Palos Verdes Drive South to access nearby beaches Staff received a substantial number of emails regarding Gateway Park and Del Cerro Park. A spreadsheet of the emails is in the Public Outreach Appendix D. Below is a chart showing combined Gateway Workshop attendee responses. Gateways Park Public Workshop .Exercise Results 40 is 30 25 LE M Picnic/ Sitting Areas Edurational Kiosks Staff/ Ranger Portable Emergency Response Parking Lot Tr@11er AcLe5s ■ Creat Idea It's OK ■ So So ■ No Upper Hesse Park Two Upper Hesse Park workshops were held on December 10, 2014 and February 11, 2014. Both workshops featured an update on the Lower Hesse Park planning process, but the focus was on Upper Hesse Park. Attendees were most positive about adding shade structures, fitness stations, improved viewpoints, drought -resistant landscaping, and tricycle park for tots, 12 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 13 and replacing storage containers with a permanent solution. Attendees were mixed or negative about expanding the John C McTaggart Hall patio, and bocce ball courts. Concerns were raised about financing, management, traffic, views and adding recreation activities for youth teens and adults. There was a strong general consensus that no significant changes were needed. Below are charts showing combined Upper Hesse Park Workshop responses. Hesse Park Public Workshop Tape Dot Exercise Results W Rol 15 1c a Shade Structure Fitness Stations Improved Expand McTaggart Drought Resistant Viewpoints Hall Patio Landscaping ■ Great Idea It's OK ■ So So ■ No Hesse Park Public Workshop Tape Dot Exercise Results 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 • - Tricycle Park For Bocce Ball Courts Enhanced Picnic Replace Storage Tots Tables & Benches Containers w/perm ■ Great Idea It's OK ■ So So ■ No 13 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 14 Attendees could also offer additional open-ended written comments. Below is a summary, comment details are in Appendix D. Hesse Park Comment Card SUMMARY # of comments 1. Add amenities and/or activities 28 2. Keep as Is 18 3. Maintenance Requested 7 4. Misc. 1 Ladera Linda Park Two Ladera Linda Park public workshops were held on November 12, 2014 and January 21, 2015. Approximately 20-25 people attended each workshop. Attendees had a strong positive response to a new community center with Sheriff/Park Ranger drop-in office and an expanded nature center. They expressed varying levels of support for maintaining the current multi -use lower field, improved amenities, paddle/tennis courts and adding fitness stations. Improvements to the existing paddle tennis courts were requested. There was strong opposition to a pool, gymnasium, dog park and BBQs at this park. Moderate opposition was also expressed regarding an ambulance station; although additional information is needed if this concept is to be explored further. Attendees expressed a desire to maintain a low-key neighborhood feel. Most attendees said their favorite activity was hiking or walking. Below are charts showing combined Ladera Linda Park Workshop responses. Ladera Linda Community Center Public Workshop Tape Dot Exerclse Results 26 20 is 1 ■ ■■ ■ ■� ■ ■ ■ e E Greatidea It's OK ■ So So ■ No IL z CZ 14 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 15 Ladera Linda Community Center Public Workshop Tape Dot Exercise Results 40 35 30 2s 15 76 a Park Amenities New Community Dog Park Center NO Nature Center Gym ■ Great Edea It's OK ■ So So ■ No I L Tricycle Course Local Ladera Linda Residents conducted their own survey on opinions about the size of a potential new community center, desired components, recreation facilities and other community issues. The results can be found in Appendix G. Point Vicente Park/Civic Center Two Point Vicente Park/Civic Center public workshops were held on November 19, 2014 and January 28, 2015. Approximately 15-20 people attended each workshop. Many possible futures uses were discussed, along with the history of the site and the Open Space Task Force and Coast Vision plans. The components that received the strongest response were the skate park/skate plaza, improved park amenities, a pool, walking paths, and a village green. Ideas that received the least support were bocce ball courts, tennis/paddle tennis courts, a gym, arts cultural center and tricycle course. There was mixed support for playing fields. Concerns were raised about lighting and security, financing of projects, potential crowding of the site, long term maintenance and liability. Point Vicente Park/Civic Center Community Center Public workshop Tape Dot Exercise Results 25 20 15 NEI 10 0 Dog Park ChHdren's Skate Shade /BBOs Arts/Cultural Park/Skate / Picnic Center Plaza Tables ■ Great Idea E L 111 N NEI NEI Dog Park ChHdren's Gym Tricycle Playground Course for Tots It's OK ■ So So ■ No 15 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 16 Point Vicente Park/Civic Center Public Workshop Tape Dot Exercise Results 14 iT io 8 5 4 .1� Walking Paths with Bocce Ba l l Courts Fitness Sations 11 11111 Village Green wJ Tennis{Paddle Tennis Pool Multi -p ur pose playing Amphitheatre Courts fields ■ Great Idea Ft's OK ■ So So ■ No General Workshops Two General PMPU workshops were held on February 18, 2015 at Ladera Linda Park and February 25, 2015 at Hesse Park. Staff presented an overview of the PMPU process and a review of all the prior workshops. Staff also presented information about all of the City's additional park sites and updates on current park design/planning efforts such as Lower Hesse Park and Lower Point Vicente. Input was very wide ranging at both workshops. Comments and concerns were expressed regarding a senior center, safety, security, Gateway Park, Del Cerro, the landslide area, passive vs. active uses, emergency supplies, an equestrian center, a new community center at Ladera Linda, and additional activities for youth and teenagers. There was a general sense that when it came to development, less was more. Below is a chart showing combined General Parks PMPU Workshop responses. 16 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 17 General Master Plan Public Workshop Tape Drat Exercise Results W as 15 10 s a ■ ■ �■ Outdoor Basketball Preserve: Adjacent New Ccmnnunity Preserxving Building Athletic Additional Paddle Preserve -,access Courts Nature Center Center-Ladera Undeveloped Land Recreation Tennis/Basketball Parking at Gateway Linda Facilities Courts park ■ Gnat Idea Great Idea Outdoor Basketball CGurts Preserve: Adjacent Nature Center New Community Center: Ladera Linda Preserving Undeveloped Land Building Athletic Recreation Facilities Additional Paddle Te:nnis/Basketball Courts Preserve access Parking .at Gateway park Recreational Goals/Objectives It's OIC ■ So So ■ No It's OK So So No 12 3 2 0 13 4 1 In addition to the public input process, there are several other significant factors to consider in developing the PMPU's recommendations including City recreation standards, City Council goals, General Plan Land designations, Open Space and Recreational Resource policies, and existing partnerships are all significant determining factors in the PMPU's recommendations. Open Space and Recreational Resources Policies Although the General Plan Update is currently being reviewed by the Planning Commission, the following is excerpted from the City's 1975 General Plan Conservation and Open Space Element: • Provide appropriate access to public land. • Promote and/or sponsor recreation programs within the City • Encourage local, public, non-profit recreational and cultural activities. • Seek County, State, Federal and private funds to acquire, improve and maintain recreational lands. • Work through the State and Federal government in support of legislation resulting in City acquisition of land. 17 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 18 Encourage institutions to provide public use of their recreation facilities Encourage the building of playing fields, where appropriate, for multiple uses by various recreational groups. The draft PMPU remains aligned with these policies. City Council Goals The City Council sets annual goals. Below are Parks and Recreation -related 2014 goals. Note: the 2015 City Council goals were still being determined at the time of this report. 2014 City Council Goals: • City Trails Enhancement: Complete Trails Network Plan Update (still pending) • Implementation of on-line access to recreation programs and space rentals: Complete "go -live" for Active.net (completed) • Continue with shared use of PVPUSD and City Facilities: City recreation programs to be available at Peninsula High pool and Miraleste Intermediate gym (completed -shared use at both locations scheduled for Summer 2015) • Continue with evaluation of City recreation programs/sustainability of/demand for programs (completed although staff continues to analyze the comparison of privatized rentals, independent contractors and in- house services. Staff continues to research surrounding jurisdictions to stay current on comparative services and fees) Joint Use Agreements The Recreation and Parks Department has developed a number of partnerships, ongoing relationships, and joint -use agreements with agencies that have expanded and enhanced the recreational opportunities available to City residents and visitors. The PMPU does not alter the City's long-standing policy of pursuing mutually beneficial partnerships. Below is a partial list: • Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority: Park Ranger Services and Junior Ranger Program • Los Serenos de Point Vicente: Docent and Junior Docent Programs • Youth Sports Leagues including AYSO, Little Leagues, US Youth Volleyball League, Pony League, Lacrosse, etc. • Palos Verdes Unified School District: Use of Miraleste Gym and Peninsula High School Pool • Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy: Shared management of Palos Verdes Nature Preserve im• Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 19 City Recreational Standards The City's General Plan and the City's Municipal Code (Section 16.20.100c) require four acres of parkland per thousand residents. The General Plan states that the City will "establish ordinances to require builders and developers to provide lands and/or funds for acquisition and development of land for recreational use" and that these lands and/or funds shall "be based on a standard of providing 4 acres of local parkland per 1000 population (City of Rancho Palos Verdes General Plan, page 99)." With a population of 41,643 (2010 U.S. Census), this park acreage standard yields a goal of approximately 165 acres for the City. The City's current park acreage of 278 acres (not including 1,450 acres of open space) far exceeds this goal. The recommendations contained within this Plan will not significantly increase or decrease this number. General Plan Desianations The State of California requires a Land Use Element to be included in every local government general plan. According to the State's General Plan Guidelines, the Land Use Element shall designate the proposed general distribution and general location and extent of the uses of the land for housing, business, industry, open space, including agriculture, natural resources, recreation, enjoyment of scenic beauty, education, public buildings and grounds, solid and liquid waste disposal facilities, and other categories of public and private uses of land. The City's General Plan is currently being updated. Below is a chart of existing land use designation and proposed land use designations. Any changes to the General Plan that have a significant bearing or impact on the PMPU will be incorporated. The only land use change that is specifically being considered in the PMPU is discussed in the Point Vicente Park/Civic Center section. Below are existing land -use designations and proposed land -use designations. Definitions of land use designations are below. Park Land Use ProposedExisting Use Abalone Cove Shoreline R -P R-P/OSP Clovercl iff R2-4 R -P Deane Dana Friendship R -P no change Del Cerro R -P no change Don C Wallace Radio Ranch R2-4 no change Eastview R R -P Founders R151 R -P Frank A Vanderlip R51 R -P Fred Hesse Jr R -A no change Gateway Park A/H/R51 R -P Grandview R -P no change Ladera Linda (City -owned) I -E I -P Ladera Linda (School Dist -owned) I -E no change Los Verdes Golf Course R -A no change 19 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 20 Marilyn Ryan R<_1 R -P Martingale 131-2 R -P Pelican Cove R -P R-P/OSP PVIC R-P/OSP no change Upper Pt Vicente/Civic Center R-P/I-P R-P/I-P/OSP Lower Pt Vicente R -P R-P/OSP Shoreline Park R -P OSP Robert E Ryan R -A no change Vista Catalina R151 R -P A Agricultural H Natural Environment/Hazard I -P Institutional public Open Space Preserve (this is a new land use designation being proposed, currently OSP does not exist) R51 Residential equal to or less than 1 du/ac R1-2 Residential 1 to 2 du/ac R2-4 Residential 2 to 4 du/ac R -A Recreational active R -P Recreational passive R Recreational (no active or passive distinction) Recommendations and Priorities The Parks Master Plan Update has a long list of recommendations on a site by site basis that are phased in over 1-2 years, 3-5 years, and time periods to be determined. Some of the recommendations are already budgeted for or included in the funded or unfunded Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Some smaller projects, such as improvements to general park amenities at all park sites or a shift to drought tolerant landscaping where feasible can be accommodated with existing funds within the Public Works budget. If approved, staff will pursue alternative funding, including grants for unfunded projects. These dollar figures are estimates and may change as projects are further developed and scoped. Given today's challenging economic times, the City will need to deploy its financial resources carefully and thoughtfully to address the identified needs in a cost-effective way. Priorities The following list of priorities is based on staff's interpretation of the data gathered through the process to date: 1. Complete design process/phasing for Lower Hesse Park 2. Approve Lower Point Vicente Improvement Project, outdoor exhibits and expanded/enhanced indoor improvements. 20 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 21 3. Address Preserve parking and neighborhood impact issues at Del Cerro and Gateway Park. 4. Confirm the desired components for Point Vicente Park/Civic Center and initiate Master Plan Process. 5. Approve facilitated Master Plan and public outreach process for development of new Ladera Linda Park Community Center 6. Transition to drought -resistant landscaping where feasible. 7. Continue to fund and implement the Citywide ADA Transition Plan. Recommendations Below are the Parks Master Plan Update Recommendations: Details of each park site can be found in the attached PMPU. A spreadsheet of recommendations which includes funding and phasing is attached to this report. Some projects are included in the current FY 14-15 Budget, such as Eastview Dog Park, while others are in the 5 -Year CIP (funded and unfunded), while some projects have no identified funding source at this time. These projects reflect the estimated costs of design and construction. Ongoing maintenance and operational costs will need to be developed for approved projects. Abalone Cove Abalone Cove had two significant upgrades completed in 2014, the Abalone Cove Shoreline Park Improvement Project and the Abalone Cove Parking Lot Improvement Project. Improvements included new trails, picnic areas, viewing nodes with telescopes, interpretive panels, a shade structure, native plant landscaping, and discovery zones. The public restroom, staff building and parking lot were significantly improved and an automated pay system was installed for the parking lot. Recommendations: • Regrade and re -pave the access road from PVDS to beachfront to improve accessibility for emergency response and maintenance vehicles. • Improve site amenities, site -appropriated signage, benches, and picnic tables. Clovercliff Park Clovercliff Park, located on Golden Meadow Drive, is an approximately 7,000 square foot pocket park that has a walking path, is landscaped, and has large rocks that are available for seating with a distant ocean view. Recommendations: • Transition to drought -tolerant landscaping. • Improve walking path, site -appropriate signage, and benches. 21 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 22 Del Cerro Park There was significant discussion of Del Cerro Park and parking impact on neighbors due to its proximity to the Portuguese Bend Nature Reserve. This issue of Portuguese Bend Nature Reserve access is discussed in greater detail in the Gateway section of this report. Note: In April 2015 the City Council directed staff to study parking and access options in the Del Cerro Park area. There have been numerous reports of people parking in neighborhoods adjacent to the Portuguese Bend Nature Reserve area. This item was addressed by the City Council on June 16, 2015 and direction was given to staff to allow permit parking in the adjacent neighborhoods, modify on -street parking on Crenshaw Boulevard and establish a resident permit parking program at Del Cerro Park. Recommendations: • Implement the Del Cerro Park Capacity Update Project to address parking concerns/neighborhood congestion and improve Preserve access. • Install restroom building. • Install additional picnic tables and benches. • Shift to drought tolerant landscaping. Don C. Wallace Radio Ranch Museum Park The property was originally intended as a radio museum with funds for the improvement of the museum to be raised by the Wallace Radio Ranch Museum Foundation. When the required funds were not raised the property became a neighborhood park maintained by the Wallace Ranch Homeowners Association. There are no improvements to the property other than turf and an irrigation system. Recommendation: • Approach HOA to consider a shift to drought tolerant planting to replace or reduce the size of the existing grass field. Eastview Park The number one issues discussed at Eastview's public workshops were dogs off leash and a potential dog park. Off -leash dogs are a common occurrence at Eastview, which has a reputation as being essentially an off -leash facility, even though there is a leash law is in effect at all City parks. Staff has received numerous complaints about residents who feel uneasy or have had unpleasant encounters with off -leash dogs. A dog park would not eliminate this issue, but it would be part of the solution, providing an opportunity for dog owners to legally have their dogs off -leash. Public workshops elicited concerns about the project and significant opposition, although the online survey had strong support. The Eastview Dog Park would have both small and large dog runs. The proposed location currently has ample, existing shade trees and would have seating areas, access to water, public restrooms, and sufficient parking. The location is buffered from commercial buildings to the west, is compatible with the land use designation and has approval from the Sanitation District. The dog park will be unstaffed and have fixed hours of operation consistent with the parks current hours. Staff will utilize existing, approved rule signage from the Rancho Caninos Dog Park. W Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 23 Staff Office: There are currently no staffed parks on the eastside of the City. One of the recommendations for Eastview Park is to install a small, portable staff office that would be occupied by Recreation part-time staff. Recommendations: • Build dog park. • Install fitness stations along walking paths. • Install staff office (portable). • Install shade structures. • Improve amenities: benches, tables, trash/recycling cans. • Improve/widen walking paths. • Transition to drought -tolerant landscaping. Founders Park The site is adjacent to the Trump National Golf Course Improvements and includes picnic tables, a gazebo, nearby restrooms, coastal access, walking and biking trails and landscaping. This park, which is dedicated to the courageous visionaries who helped found the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, has tremendous views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. A portion of the site can be reserved for weddings and other ceremonial events. The park is fully maintained by Trump National Golf Course. Recommendations: • Continue ongoing relationship with Trump National staff to maintain the attractive appearance and accessibility of park. • Improve amenities: benches, tables, trash/recycling cans. • Transition to drought -tolerant landscaping, where feasible. Frank A. Vanderlip Sr. Park This approximately 5 acre park located at 6500 Seacove Drive. Unobstructed views of the ocean, headlands and islands are the main attraction at this park. 23 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 24 Recommendations: • Transition to drought -tolerant landscaping. • Improve amenities: benches, tables, trash/recycling cans Fred Hesse Jr. Community Park Hesse Park was acquired from the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District. The purchase was completed in two transactions over a five-year period beginning in 1976. Upper Hesse Park: Development of the facility was completed in September 1983 at a cost of $3,715,405. This park, with its well -manicured parkland and active community center, is one of the most popular in the City. Among the features available for public enjoyment in the upper park area are baseball and soccer fields, numerous picnic tables with barbecues, playground equipment suitable for toddlers to adolescents, and a well -used '/4 mile walking path. Most of the City's privatized recreation classes are offered at this facility and many Peninsula Senior activities are held here. Additionally three rooms in the 7,300 square foot community center are available for rental for meetings and private parties. Lower Hesse Park: A system of trails, two picnic areas, sand volleyball court, and a parking lot were completed in July 1999. Further improvements to this area have been in a planning/ design phase since 2005. Conceptual designs were prepared in 2011 which included extensive landscape and trail improvements and active elements such as a basketball court, tennis court, paved parking lot, and a small structure which would include a public restroom, staff office and storage. The City Council directed staff in 2012 to work with the Pacific View HOA to scale back the project and phase in improvements. A draft plan is being prepared for the site with phases including an initial phase funded at $500,000. Note: This item is scheduled to be presented to the City Council in August 2015. Recommendations: • Install fitness stations along walking path. • Install shade structures. • Transition to drought -tolerant landscaping. • Upgrade existing picnic tables, benches, and trash/recycling cans. • Construct tricycle path for tots. • Resurface parking lot. • Fiber optic cabling allowing for unified communication with City Hall. • Install solar power system on community building. • Replace fencing on northern border of property. • Stabilize the existing view point at the edge of western lawn in Upper Hesse and add benches. • Replace current railroad tie stairs with concrete stairs. • Incorporate results of Lower Hesse Park Improvement Project once completed. 24 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 25 Gateway Park Background Information When the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve was first created in 2004, an approximately 25 -acre portion was set aside at the southern tip of the Portuguese Bend Reserve to be used as an Active Recreation Area (ARA). Subsequently, in 2008, the City Council adopted Coast Vision Plan, which identified the area, now known as Gateway Park, to be the future home of an equestrian center with riding rings and public parking that would also serve as a trailhead to the Preserve. None of the proposed improvements would consist of permanent structures because of the active land movement in the area. The equestrian center improvements were envisioned to be sponsored by the local equestrian community. To date, no formal request to construct the improvements from the equestrian community has been received by the City. On April 1, 2014, the City Council reconfigured and reduced the size of Gateway Park from 25 - acres to 18 -acres. At this same meeting, the Council also removed the 40 -acre Archery Range property located on the opposite side of Palos Verdes Drive South from the Preserve. The Management Agreement with the Palos Verdes Land Conservancy was amended to reflect these changes. Subsequently, staff prepared a conceptual plan for Gateway Park to serve as the main parking area and southern "gateway" to the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve. The concept was developed in part to relieve some of the parking and congestion problems that have developed on Crenshaw Boulevard and the area around Del Cerro Park. The concept plan was presented to the community through the PMPU process and consists of the following elements: • Dirt access road and parking lot with approximately 30 parking spaces, including several spaces large enough for horse trailers • Picnic tables and seating areas • Hitching posts • Staff/Ranger drop-in trailer (portable) • Public restrooms (portable) • Interpretive and educational information on portable kiosks • Emergency vehicle access Gateway Park would be a staffed park site, and staff would further educate the public on the rules of the Preserve. Because Gateway Park sits within an active landslide, all improvements would be temporary and mobile. 25 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 26 ,.a._ Gateway Park n3 4. _ '. ... Proposed Gateway Layout Public Input: Numerous strong concerns were expressed during the PMPU public outreach process regarding this proposal including safety, security, and the area's fragile geology. Residents expressed concerns that visitors would park at Gateway Park and then cross Palos Verdes Drive South to access the beaches and coves. Many residents referenced a tragedy that occurred on July 4m 2014 where an individual drowned and numerous rescues were necessary due to high surf conditions. Social media and increased public awareness of sites such as Abalone Cove and the Nature Preserve were also identified as concerns. As Gateway Park was by far the most controversial topic addressed during the public outreach process, staff is seeking particular direction from the City Council on how it should be addressed in the Park Master Plan Update. To that end, staff offers the following points to consider: • The City's geologist has examined the proposed location and determined that it is appropriate for the proposed uses, none of which are permanent and can be moved as needed. • Safety is a paramount concern, so the site will be staffed when open to direct visitors towards the Preserve. • Signage would be installed to inform visitors of potentially dangerous surf conditions and that the lot is intended for Preserve visitors, not beachgoers. • The parking lot is located as far away from PV Drive South as possible to discourage beach access. • An Abalone Cove Safety Task Force has been formed to address dangerous surf conditions and has established safety protocols. • Staff acknowledges that people may ignore all the safeguards listed above and put themselves in danger. Oceans are dangerous and will continue to be so despite all best 26 14 "F •A d pie, y fit.. N ,.a._ Gateway Park n3 4. _ '. ... Proposed Gateway Layout Public Input: Numerous strong concerns were expressed during the PMPU public outreach process regarding this proposal including safety, security, and the area's fragile geology. Residents expressed concerns that visitors would park at Gateway Park and then cross Palos Verdes Drive South to access the beaches and coves. Many residents referenced a tragedy that occurred on July 4m 2014 where an individual drowned and numerous rescues were necessary due to high surf conditions. Social media and increased public awareness of sites such as Abalone Cove and the Nature Preserve were also identified as concerns. As Gateway Park was by far the most controversial topic addressed during the public outreach process, staff is seeking particular direction from the City Council on how it should be addressed in the Park Master Plan Update. To that end, staff offers the following points to consider: • The City's geologist has examined the proposed location and determined that it is appropriate for the proposed uses, none of which are permanent and can be moved as needed. • Safety is a paramount concern, so the site will be staffed when open to direct visitors towards the Preserve. • Signage would be installed to inform visitors of potentially dangerous surf conditions and that the lot is intended for Preserve visitors, not beachgoers. • The parking lot is located as far away from PV Drive South as possible to discourage beach access. • An Abalone Cove Safety Task Force has been formed to address dangerous surf conditions and has established safety protocols. • Staff acknowledges that people may ignore all the safeguards listed above and put themselves in danger. Oceans are dangerous and will continue to be so despite all best 26 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 27 efforts. There are already a number of parking lots that allow for beach access in Rancho Palos Verdes. The City currently has no designated parking spots for the Portuguese Bend Nature Preserve. Gateway Park was removed from the Preserve at the time of its acquisition in order to help address this issue. The Portuguese Bend Nature Reserve and the entire Palos Verdes Nature Preserve are a source of tremendous pride for the City. The majority of City residents cannot access this area by foot. Allowing for a modest parking lot at the southern end of the Portuguese Bend Nature Preserve will allow visitors, both resident and non-resident alike, to access this community jewel. Grandview Park Grandview Park offers a large opportunity for development and meeting community recreational needs since it is 18 acres of completely undeveloped parkland. However, because of the site's challenging topography and that it is undeveloped, substantial grading and installation of utilities will be required and will add to the cost of developing the site. In 2010, City Council approved a conceptual plan for Grandview Park, including improved access, amenities, and recreational elements. At the time of this Parks Master Plan Update, the conceptual plans were undergoing the Mitigated Negative Declaration environmental analysis. Recommendations: Dependent on the results on the environmental analysis process, proceed with the "Sycamore Option" beginning with Phase 1 which would include construction of a natural parking lot, restrooms/office, play area, picnic area, and landscaping. Initiate a facilitated design/pubic outreach/phasing process for the remaining elements of Grandview Park, including activity lawn, viewing nodes, discovery area, flexible cycling area and walking trails. Ladera Linda Park In 2013, SA Associates, an engineering firm, was hired to assess the current condition of existing public structures in the City. In the resulting Infrastructure Report Card, the Ladera Linda Community Center received an overall infrastructure score of "F" (Fail). This rating is given to those building that are in very poor condition. The Infrastructure Report Card utilizes grading criterion that the general public can relate to, similar to the grading used in education. It is the same criterion used by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) in grading the condition of public infrastructure. Based on those findings, the main recommendation is to build a new community center. Recommendations: Development of New Community Center: • Develop a facilitated Master Plan and public outreach process for a new Ladera Linda Park Community Center. • Incorporate expanded Nature Center/Preserve Annex and Sheriff/Ranger drop-in office into Master Plan Process. 27 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 28 • Upon completion of Master Plan Process, proceed with demolition of existing buildings and construction of new Community Center. Additional Site Improvements: • Install fitness stations. • Install shade structures on lower level and paddle tennis level. • Pave access road between lower and middle parking lots. • Install two bocce ball courts adjacent to paddle tennis courts. • Improve landscaping on existing multi -use playing field. • Upgrade surfacing of current asphalt play area. • Retain the two existing basketball courts. • Add one tennis court. • Add tot tricycle course. • Transition to drought -tolerant landscaping, where feasible. • Install interior paddle tennis fencing separating the two courts. Most recommendations above should be done in conjunction with Community Center development. Lower Point Vicente Park/Point Vicente Interpretive Center The Lower Point Vicente Park Improvement Project is still in progress at this time. The results of that process, which focuses on site improvements including new decomposed granite trails, reconfigured and new parking spaces, drainage facilities, landscaping , fencing, signage, and grading, as well as exterior exhibits at PVIC (Phase 3) will be incorporated into the Master Plan once finalized and approved by the City Council. The outdoor exhibit elements being considered include the following: 1. Parking Lot and Bioswale 2. Grassland/Play Area 3. Tongva Village interactive exhibit 4. Geology/Fossil Dig interactive exhibit 5. Dry Farming interactive exhibit 6. WW II History interactive exhibit 7. Overlook area 8. Wall of Honor A planning/design effort was also underway at the time of the Master Plan's submission for indoor exhibits (Completion of Phase II) which will upgrade, enhance, and unify the museum's current exhibits. Staff and members of Los Serenos de Point Vicente Docents are currently working with an exhibit designer and seeking grant funding for the projects. The results of that process are recommended to be incorporated into the Master Plan once the initial design is finalized and approved by the City Council. • Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 29 •'S � i f i7 150 it Nan,. at.n 1© } I l rr _ yk z ti f KEY: s+�e 1 g _ _ - f." 1. Pond Viccnie �icrpr�eF},�e - it r(�.( r �•;.. •'�' �C Aer 2 %rlong Lt oath B-— - ' 3. G=krLd A. Tongues Vii ge f 1 tr + L. A—hnenlagucal INg k. r T. Spnrnh Rancho r @. dry Forming r 4. WWII W6 t -y and Reximom la. 0w e_k4 ' 7 ^ -- I L 'Pial of tiaracs Picnic '`••�!�• a +- 1 J' V 12 A-- tro he placed ii;.nugt,nul; 10 FAras T—f Netw lk: 12 �' I _ ♦r•r•ira Ilk—rdand A&I—A-iahi-o' Buffer r - Y, Mnpr ne ; It Re ende ,sy In- 15D benxer taaA and property ene_15:kfl a + rr . 4- >, P A IN Recommendations: • Implement Lower Point Vicente Improvement Project (once approved) to include: new decomposed granite trails, overlooks, reconfigured and new parking spaces (including new upper terrace parking lot), drainage facilities (including a bioswale), landscaping, fencing, way -finding signs and minor site grading to accommodate the improvements, Phase 3 exhibits living history exhibit process, authorize staff to look for funding sources. Incorporate Phase II Interior Exhibit Update into Master Plan once process is complete and approved by Council. Transition to drought -tolerant landscaping, where feasible Install Solar Power System on the Point Vicente Interpretive Center building Marilyn Ryan Sunset Point Park Marilyn Ryan Park, located on Ocean Trails Drive, has tremendous views of Trump National Golf Course and the Pacific Ocean. The park features picnic tables, benches, a water 29 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 30 fountain, a dolphin statue and a bridge named in honor of LAPD Swat Officer Randall Simmons who was killed in the line of duty. The park is named for the original Mayor of Rancho Palos Verdes. The property is maintained by Trump National Golf Course. Recommendations: Transition to drought -tolerant landscaping, where feasible. Continue to maintain positive working relationship with Trump National to maintain attractive appearance and appropriate uses of the park. Martingale Trailhead Park This parcel was designated for construction as a trailhead park and to establish easements for a fifteen foot wide equestrian trail that traverses this parcel as well as Lots 20 and 21 of the same tract. Park improvements were completed and the park was dedicated in 1990. The site is located in an Equestrian Overlay District. The trailhead provides access to a trails system serving the cities of Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills and Rolling Hills Estates. Both hikers and equestrians utilize this park. Improvements include landscaping, a tri -level drinking fountain which serves horses, humans and small animals, a mounting block, and a seating rock. Recommendation: • Upgrade existing amenities including water fountain and signage. Pelican Cove Formerly known as Point Vicente Fishing Access, Pelican Cove features a paved parking lot, restroom building, improved trail to the shoreline, and incredible Catalina Island and ocean views. Native plantings surround the parking lot which links to the public parking lot at Terranea and the adjacent coastal trail system. The parking lot, restroom building, and the landscaping is maintained by the Terranea Resort pursuant to the Council -adopted Terranea Maintenance Agreement. Recommendation: • Improve amenities: benches, tables, trash/recycling cans. Point Vicente Park/Civic Center Backaround Information The size of the Point Vicente Park/Civic Center property, combined with its spectacular ocean views, few nearby neighbors and location adjacent to City Hall, has made it a focal point for potential development plans and site improvements throughout the City's history. The property, which boasts spectacular coastal and ocean views, is a tremendous resource that could potentially accommodate a number of civic, recreation, and cultural needs for the community. The property consists of three components: 30 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 31 Point Vicente Park The 65.12 acres of park land that was acquired from the Federal Government after its use as a NIKE Missile Base was closed and the property was declared surplus by the General Services Administration (GSA). The majority of the park is part of the Alta Vicente Nature Reserve, which is part of the larger 1,450 -acre Palos Verdes Nature Preserve, and has been set aside for habitat preservation under the Natural Communities Conservation Plan (NCCP). In addition to the habitat areas and existing public trail network, other land uses include a 5.5 - acre farm, an unpaved public parking lot and an emergency helipad. By permit, model helicopters are allowed to be flown in a designated area surrounding a helipad. Civic Center The 8.23 acres of designated Civic Center was purchased from GSA in two parcels. There are no use restrictions on the land acquired by the City in -fee for Civic Center use. The Civic Center includes the City Hall offices, maintenance yard, an open grassy areas, a sand volleyball court, one tennis court and the "Rancho Caninos" temporary dog park. This is the site of the City's annual July 4t" Independence Day Celebration. Palos Verdes on the Net, Peninsula Volunteer Alert Network (PVAN) and Peninsula Seniors also have facilities on the property. Coast Guard The U.S. Coast Guard also owns a 3.93 acre parcel located on the west promontory overlooking the Point Vicente Lighthouse, which is the site of several communications towers and a historic WWII -era artillery bunker. Active Recreational Opportunities Point Vicente Park is conditioned by deed to allow continuous public access for recreational use in perpetuity. The land may not be sold or transferred to any entity other than another governmental agency, and then only with the consent of the Department of the Interior. The park land has an approved Program of Utilization (POU) that describes future development. Any change to that Program must be approved by the National Park Service and the State Department of Parks and Recreation. The park land may not be leased and any concessior agreement for operation of recreational facilities must be approved by the National Park Service and the State Department of Recreation and Parks. While the majority of the park is restricted for passive recreation, the POU identifies a 6.6 - acre area in the northern portion of the property to be used for active recreational purposes. However, this area of the site is now part of the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve, where active recreation would not be permitted. 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 Program of Utilization by the National Park Service." Staff approached the National Park Service in 2014 about the possibility of moving the 6.6 -acre active recreation area from its current location adjacent to the Villa Capri Condominiums to the upper portion of the park adjacent to the existing City Hall facilities. In September 2014, the National Park Service representative concurred that this proposal would be consistent with the site's POU (see 31 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 32 attached email). A potential reconfiguration of the 6.6 -acre area to the upper portion of the site is depicted in yellow in the aerial photograph below: Proposed ±6.6 -Acre Active Recreation Area LADA NIKE Site 55, Point Vicente, Rancho Palos Verdes (GSA No. 9 -D -Calif -1088) Potential Skate Park/Plaza 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. Council directed staff to update the Parks Master Plan prior to making a decision regarding the SPV skate park proposal. It is still Staff's position that a skate park is a feasible component that would serve a wide range of people, but particularly the traditionally underserved teenager and young adult population. A skate park received a 4 out of 5 on Point Vicente Park/Civic Center Workshop comment cards, strong support from the Tape Dot Exercise, and slightly 32 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 33 more respondents choosing to support the skate park, over don't support it on the online survey. (Note: the term "skate park" was used on the online survey, rather than SPV's preferred "skate plaza" nomenclature. This was done for the sake of clarity because "skate park" is a more common name for such a facility.) RVP MULTI -USE PLAZA 0 Pillar MULTI -USE AREA PLAN DeAgn Stvaior RANCHO PALOS VERGES, Cr- Overview L Overview of proposed 15,000 square foot skate plaza location The 15,000 square foot design may be larger than needed. Several Councilmembers expressed concern about its size and prominent location. Appendix E details a number of local skate parks, most of which range from 8,000 to 10,000 square feet. The very popular Peck Park Skate Park in San Pedro, for example, is 8,000 feet. A smaller footprint would also allow for more flexibility in where the skate park is located on site and how it is configured, leaving additional room for other components, additional parking, or a larger village green. Point Vicente Park/Civic Center has ample space, is located on a major street, and can be accessed by public transportation. Skateboarders would not be able to access the location by skateboard due an existing skateboarding ban on Hawthorne Boulevard. SPV has indicated that they would be able and willing to finance the design and construction of the project. Recommendations: Authorize a facilitated Master Plan Design and Public Outreach Process for Point Vicente Park/Civic Center using the Coast Vision Plan Long Term Plan as a base document with the inclusion of a skate park in the "new uses" area. Confirm the following recommended components to be included in site's Master Plan Process: ✓ City Hall ✓ Community Center 33 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 34 ✓ Skate Park/Plaza (not to exceed 10,000 feet) ✓ Outdoor Swimming Pool ✓ Shade Structures ✓ Children's Playground ✓ Walking paths w/fitness stations ✓ Enhanced amenities: picnic tables, benches, trash/recycling cans/BBQs ✓ Improved Village Green ✓ Tennis courts ✓ Permanent dog park Direct staff to continue the process to move 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. • Incorporate results of Public Works Corporation Storage Yard Relocation process to study the possibility of spreading out the storage yard to strategic locations throughout the City with a smaller central office at City Hall, thereby increasing the efficiency of Public Works operations and allow for the potential development of all or part of the existing maintenance yard. RPV Beach: RPV Beach was acquired as part of the Trump National Golf Course Development Agreement. The public beach is accessible by steep trail via Trump National Golf Course and Founders Park. Recommendation: • Make no changes to this site. Robert E. Ryan Park Ryan Park was originally constructed and owned by the County of Los Angeles. Ryan Park is named for City Founder and former Rancho Palos Verdes Mayor Robert E. Ryan. The park's former name was Rancho Palos Verdes Park. Upon the incorporation of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, title to the park was transferred from the County to the City. This park features a community building with a small activity room and patio which are available for rent, a tot lot, playground, picnic areas with barbecues, fields, and a baseball diamond. Views from this park are superior, and the mature trees add to the atmosphere. Recommendations: • Remodel or build new community building. Original building dates back to the 1960s. Larger building could accommodate more rentals and classes. • Transition to drought -tolerant landscaping, where feasible. • Improved Amenities: Benches, picnic tables, BBQs, trash/recycling cans. • Install shade structures in the picnic areas. • Fiber optic cabling to allow for unified communication with City Hall. 34 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 35 Vista Catalina Park Vista Catalina is a small pocket park located adjacent to PV Drive South at the main entrance to Trump National across from Marilyn Ryan Sunset Point Park. The Park has magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. Recommendations: • Transition to drought -tolerant landscaping, where feasible • Continue to work with Trump National staff to maintain its attractive appearance and accessibility. RELATED PLANS Palos Verdes Nature Preserve Public Use Master Plan (PUMP) The Palos Verdes Nature Preserve (Preserve) encompasses approximately 1,450 acres comprised of ten individual Reserves, 424 acres of which consists of the Portuguese Bend Reserve. The Preserve is owned by the City of Rancho Palos Verdes and is managed by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy (PVPLC) for ecological values and habitat restoration. This preserve is home to coastal sage scrub habitat, a community of intensely fragrant and highly drought resistant native shrubs and flowering plants. Living throughout this rare habitat are many different animals, including the threatened California gnatcatcher and coastal cactus wren and two species of endangered butterflies. The individual reserves provide excellent recreational opportunities, as they are full of networks of hiking, equestrian, and bicycle trails. There are 33 miles of hiking, equestrian, and mountain bike trails available to the public. The Preserve PUMP was established in 2006 and addresses issues germane to the Preserve such as public access, trailhead locations, parking, trail use, fencing, signage and lighting. The Palos Verdes Nature Preserve already has a well-established system for receiving public input, reporting incidents, and initiating changes, and pursuing enhancements to the existing Preserve. The PUMP is subject to periodic review and updates by the City Council with input from the public. Trails Network Plan Update A significant effort to combine and unify the various City trails -related plan is currently underway. Several public workshops have already been conducted. The Trails Network Plan Update is being facilitated by the Community Development Department and seeks to consolidate and update the following plans: ✓ Conceptual Bikeways Plan -updated 1996 ✓ Conceptual Trails Plan- updated 1993 ✓ Preserve Trails Plan ✓ Ocean Front Estates Trails 35 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 36 ✓ Terranea Resort Trails ✓ Trump National Trails ✓ California Coastal Trail Proposed changes are subject to public input and City Council approval and will be reviewed for consistent with the PMPU. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION The PMPU has eight appendices. Appendix A: 1989 Parks Master Plan Update Appendix B: 2005 Open Space Planning & Recreation and Parks Task Force Final Report Appendix C: Coast Vision Plan Report and Amendments Appendix D. Comprehensive Public Outreach Results (Includes Public Workshop Summaries, Public Workshop Comment Cards, Public Workshop Tape Dot Exercise results, Summary of emails received separated by subject, Complete Online Survey Results with summary of open-ended question responses. Appendix E Sport Fields/Facilities/Skate Park/Youth League Information Appendix F: Status/Update of 1989 Parks Master Plan Recommendations Appendix G: Ladera Linda Community Center Resident -Generated Questionaire Appendix H: Park Amenities FISCAL IMPACT The precise fiscal impact is difficult to determine due to a number of factors. The scope of many of the projects, particularly significant ones such as Ladera Linda and Point Vicente Park/Civic Center will likely changes as their respective master plan processes are developed and the size, scale and quantities of amenities are determined. A number of projects are scheduled to be phased in over 3-5 years. More precise cost estimates will be developed as those projects move forward in the future. The current estimated costs for the projects (which does not include maintenance and operation expenses) ranges from $19,171,000 to $25,469,000. CONCLUSION Much has changed since the Parks Master Plan was last updated in 1989, but much remains the same. The City of Rancho Palos Verdes' beautiful parks, magnificent open space, and endless vistas continue to be both a source of tremendous community pride and also a 36 Parks Master Plan Update Date: June 30, 2015 Page 37 boundless avenue for a wide range of recreation possibilities. After a significant public outreach effort, this draft Parks Master Plan Update seeks to further that legacy by judiciously enhancing park amenities while honoring the previous and ongoing contributions of innumerable dedicated residents, elected officials and staff. Attachments Draft Parks Master Plan Update (page38) May 20, 2014 Parks Master Plan Update and Enhancement -Staff Implementation and Follow -Up Report Study Session Item from Councilwoman Susan Brooks (page 114 ) July 29, 2014 Point Vicente Park Skate Park Feasibility Staff Report (page 115 ) September 15, 2014 Letter from David Siegenthaler, National Park Service (page 151) 37