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RPVCCA_CC_SS_2014_05_20_02c_Parks_Master_Plan_Update_And_EnhancementCITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS FROM: COUNCILWOMAN SUSAN BROOKS DATE: MAY 20, 2014 SUBJECT: PARKS MASTER PLAN UPDATE AND ENHANCEMENT -STAFF IMPLEMENTATION AND FOLLOW UP REPORT RECOMMENDATION Direct staff to provide an update to the 1989 Parks Master Plan. BACKGROUND It has been 25 years since the City Council has addressed our Parks Master Plan. After numerous 'pocket park' requests and staff involvement with different communities regarding a potential future for use of our Parks, it is apparent that time and money have been spent on plans which may or may not be part of what the residents of Rancho Palos Verdes want to see and are willing to pay for in the way of taxes. I am requesting that staff proceed with a revisit and suggested update of the existing Parks Master Plan. 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. Regardless, I believe it is imperative we have an established Plan, as does our sister city, Palos Verdes Estates, so that we are proactive with the wishes of the Rancho Palos Verdes community, as a whole. Attached is a copy of the 1989 Parks Master Plan. SS2c-1 j The City of Rancho Palos CREATION &PARKSDEPARTMENT PARKS MASTER PLAN REVISED 1989 I SS2c-2 CITY COUNCIL Mayor Jacki Bacharach Mayor Pro Tern John C. McTaggart Councilmember Douglas M. Hinchliffe Councilmember Melvin W. Hughes Councilmember Robert E. Ryan PARKS MASTER PLAN REVIEW COMMITIEE Eric Randall, Chairman Karla M. Boyle Melinda H. Downing Janette Engelman Lee S. Gintz Elliot J. Hahn Caren R. Libit John F. Loggins Florence R. Marshall Walter W. Marshall Donna S. Perrin David Farrell Roche James C. Sarner Shan K. Thever Thomas A. Weber PROJECT STAFF Mary A. Thomas, Director of Recreation and Parks Elizabeth Putrino, Recreation Supervisor Karen Sharafi, Secretary Dana Brown, Lindy Rocker, Barbara Dye, Photography Ronnie Zaremba, Survey Consultant Special thanks to Dr. Marilyn Jensen, Chairman, Recreation and Leisure Studies Department, California State University Long Beach, for her guidance and the participation of her masters class in the Citizen Survey preparation and analysis. SS2c-3 PARKS MASTER PLAN REVISION October 17, 1989 • SS2c-4 PARKS MASTER PLAN REVISION INTRODUCTION: The City Council approved the creation of an ad-hoc citizens committee at its November 15, 1988 meeting, and directed that the Parks Master Plan be updated. The Committee was appointed and was directed to consider community needs for recreation sites and facilities without considering how the projects might be funded. Staff was directed to develop a prioritized three year capital improvement program, considering in the financial implications existing fund balances dedicated to park improvements and future revenue resources. The Parks Master Plan Review Committee and staff completed their work and and the City Council adopted the revisions to the Parks Master Plan by Resolution #89-99 on October 17, 1989. PROCESS: The fifteen member Committee convened for the first time in late February, 1989. The Committee was divided into three sub-committees offive members each, and each was assigned a region of the City to study with regard to park and recreation needs. The regions were: Westside, Coastal and Eastside. Overthe next six months, the Committee held thirteen regular meetings and several meetings each of the three sub-committees. Staff provided the Committee with documents and excerpts from documents which would provide a history and overview of parks and parks related development, policies and issues. Additionally, staff took the Committee members on a van tour of all of the City's developed and undeveloped parklands as well as those developed parks and parklands in adjacent cities. The recommendations formulated by the Committee were an amalgamation of input from the community gathered in the following manner, and also included the recommendations of the sub-committees. -1- SS2c-5 Citizen Survey: A recreation intern from California State University Long Beach Leisure Studies Department Masters Degree Program worked with staff and the Committee to develop a Needs Assessment Survey, which was then printed and distributed by mail to each home in Rancho Palos Verdes. Eleven hundred eighty seven surveys were completed and returned, providing a 6% representation response. An analysis and conclusions drawn by the intern and the master's program class from the survey were provided for the Committee. (See Appendix 1) Public Workshops: A public workshop was convened in each of the three regions.of the City. Staff prepared and presented a slide show to familiarize those in attendance with City parks and parklands. Public testimony was taken in each instance and those who testified provided sound input. Special Interest Groups: Invitations were issued to appear before the Committee to voice their needs and concerns to thirty-six special interest groups . Testimony was taken from representatives of Friends of Point Vicente Interpretive Center, A YSO Regions X, XI, and XII, the Chinese Community, and the Wallace Radio Ranch Foundation. Testimony was also taken from the Assistant Director at Ladera Linda Community Center regarding staff suggestions for Portuguese Bend Fields improvements. Written Correspondence: Community groups and individual citizens provided written input for the Committee. Homeowner's Associations: Homeowner's Associations were contacted by mail, asking that park and recreation needs in the City be discussed at their meetings and the information be forwarded to the City in writing or through attendance.at the public workshops. Individual Contacts: Committee members solicited information from the public on an individual basis. Additionally considered in the Committee's deliberations were standards established by the National Recreation and Park Association and those adopted in Park Study II as they related to the inventory of facilities and amenities present in City and other agency owned parks and parklands. -2- .. , -~, ...... -----~, ·~· .,.,,__....,.__~-,~'-'~····· ~ .. ··~ _.,_"_' ------··' " -·- ", SS2c-6 RECOMMENDATIONS: The Committee prepared the following recommendations for park develop- ment in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. The recommendations are prioritized as follows: Immediate: Those acquisitions and developments which should take place as soon as financing is available. Class A: Acquisitions or development projects which are recommended . to be accomplished within the next two years. Class B: Acquisitions or development projects which are recommended to be accomplished within the next five years. Class C: Acquisitions and development which should be accomplished as funding becomes available. The Committee's recommendations were not classified within the priority categories as they felt that Council should have the prerogative to select projects from any of the classifications which would fit available funding or needs perceived at the time funding became available. -3- -. <-~-· ... --,--,-~-,··--··~ ~~' , < -··· •• ,~,_~. -••<•k-~""" _,, ·-·-•K-···--~ SS2c-7 --- "" .v ...... ,.- PARKS MASTER PLAN REVISION CLASSIFICATION: IMMEDIATE * * * * * * * * * Acquire the Miraleste Elementary School Site from the Palos Verdes Pen- insula Unified School District and develop it as a community park. Site amenities should include: a tot lot/play area picnic tables a recreation center (existing buildings if feasible) a fenced turf area located away from P.V. Drive East resurfacing the existing tennis courts Narbonne Avenue Right-of-Way: (Southern Lot) Delete from the Parks Master Plan. Designate revenue from the sale of the lot for park development. Develop a Senior Citizens Center at Pt. Vicente Park/Civic Center. Purchase the Portuguese Bend Fields site from the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District. Develop an Educational Center at Point Vicente Interpretive Center. Install safety railing at the bluff edge along the trail easement across tract 39672 and provide for access to the trail from Vanderlip Park. Install safety fencing just below the bluff at Del Cerro Park to restrict access to the canyon below without blocking the view. Acquire the Shoreline County Park site from the County of Los Angeles if it is declared surplus. Develop the Westmont Avenue Park site as a passive park, to open July, 1990. -4- . --- -" ___ ,_...._,........ ·-~·-----·-··---------~ ......... --------·· -... ...._. __ _ SS2c-8 CLASSIFICATION: A PORTUGUESE BEND FIELDS: * Add a permanent group picnic pavilion, shuffleboard courts and horseshoe pits. * Add barbecue pits near the picnic structure. *· Add water fountains and a water outlet only if a group picnic shelter is constructed. * Add a small building with public restrooms, office and storage ·similar to that being constructed at Abalone Cove Shoreline Park. DEL CERRO PARK: * Add a permanent restroom facility. * Add a tot lot and play equipment. * Add a pedestrian trail connecting the bluff top area with the parking lot. GRANDVIEW PARKSITE: * Install a parking lot and provide for vehicular and pedestrian access. ABALONE COVE SHORELINE PARK * Pave paths from the parking lot accessing the picnic tables afong the bluff above Abalone Cove. PT. VICENTE PARK/CIVIC CENTER AND INTERPRETIVE CENTER * Build a municipal golf course at Point Vicente Park which will wrap around existing and proposed park facilities and utilize neighboring privately held property to give it the proper size to be a championship course. Residents of Rancho Palos should be given priority as to starting times and fees .. -5- SS2c-9 * * . * Add interpretive signage on the grounds at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center. · Obtain an agreement with the U.S. Coast Guard for access to the lighthouse to conduct docent-led tours. Add irrigation, turf and fencing to the athletic field par~ tially completed at Pt. Vicente Park/Civic Center. CLASSIFICATION: B POINT VICENTE PARK/CIVIC CENTER: * * * * Add a public restroom facility. Construct two paddle tennis courts. Add pedestrian paths throughout the property. Construct a permanent amphitheater with tiered semi- circular bench seating with backs. LOWER HESSE PARK: * Construct four to eight regulation tennis courts, perma- nent restrooms and parking. The remainder of the area to be landscaped as an open, passive greenbelt. GRANDVIEW PARK: * Improve into a cultivated, passive open space with a small tot lot and restrooms and five to ten picnic sites in the bowl below the bluff -top plateau. -6- _, -~· -· --~ .. --------SS2c-10 '. CLASSIFICATION: C LADERA LINDA/PORTUGUESE BEND FIELDS: * .. * * Improve the middle and upper parking lots as needed. Regrade and pave the access road between the lower and middle parking lots. Add benches for casual seating facing the ocean. Provide for landscaping as necessary DEL CERRO PARK: * SWITCHBACKS: * Add five to ten picnic tables near the grove of trees below the bluff top area. Leave as natural open space. ABALONE COVE SHORELINE PARK: * Defer all future development of Abalone Cove Shoreline Park pending completion of the RDA project. VANDERLIP PARK: * Leave as is. -7- SS2c-11 ' MISCELLANEOUS: The Committee feels strongly that additional soccer facilities are needed in the community and recommends that staff continue to explore the option of City renovation of soccer fields on school grounds and providing maintenance of selected existing fields in lieu of constructing new fields at much greater expense. Miraleste High School is currently the only facility on the eastside with a large public meeting room, a public pool, a football field, ·track, gymnsium, etc. Therefore, much recreation is provided to the community by Miraleste High School which cannot be replaced. The future status of the school is uncertain at this point, but in the event it is closed and offered for sale by the School District, the City should consider purchase of at least some of the recreational facilities located there. In the event the site is offered for lease, the City should use its influ· ence to ensure that the lessee continues to make the site's recreational facilities available to the public. -8- ~J~ n .. ; -.: .. ·,: \ ,.. . };· .. ·-~'." &: · ... t ~_.it I .. , . • .......\J.i.f\: . .:.. "'~---. . . . ~,~ . I:· ,L-~ ... ' 1 ~-' ....... f • ~ - ' i ~ t:.\ """'""' ~ 'loo., ~ t I ::_ · "' .~ ~- "&., v; .. SS2c-12 POt:ICIES, GOALS, and RECOMMENDATIONS SS2c-13 I. Parks Master Plan Policies, Goals and Recommendations POLICY: The City should attempt to preserve or acquire as much open space as is practical. A. GOAL: To continue to acquire available surplus public lands. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1 . Actively monitor the availability of surplus public lands; 2. Prioritize available public lands as to those beneficial to the Rancho Palos Verdes Park System; 3. Relate these lands to the financial means available for acquisition; 4. Pursue acquisition of surplus lands through the appropriate government agencies; 5. Continue negotiations with the Palos Verdes Penin- sula Unified School District to acquire surplus school sites in areas with parkland deficiencies. If sites are purchased, provide the District a repurchase option; -6. Acquire Point Vicente Coast Guard site should it become available. B. GOAL: To preserve open space in the slide area through regulatory measures. RECOMMENDATIONS: 7. Continue zoning which provides for open space; -9- SS2c-14 8. Continue to seek arrangements with owners for access and passive use of the area; 9 Determine the type and suitability of a park in the coastal zone east of Inspiration Point. C. GOAL: To acquire additional undeveloped parcels within tracts and developed neighborhoods to be used for local play areas and vest pocket parks which may be developed at the option of the neighborhoods. RECOMMENDATIONS: 10. Survey each neighborhood in the City and prepare an inventory of suitable undeveloped lots within tracts; 11. Acquire desired parcels by means of donations; 12. Encourage local neighborhoods to develop this type of park; 13. Encourage scout groups, garden clubs, neighbor- hoods, or other community groups to 'adopt' these types of parks as on-going service projects; 14. Retain overall City responsibility for coordination of volunteer and/or City maintenance; 15. Reserve the right to sell each parcel at a later date should it become advisable. II. POLICY: The City should actively seek to influence the development of recreation lands and facilities. A. GOAL: To influence the development of public lands on the Peninsula that are controlled by other public agencies. RECOMMENDATIONS: -10- SS2c-15 ·• 16. Identify and inventory these sites; 17. Maintain open channels of communication with those jurisdictions having control of public lands within the Peninsula; 18. Establish early involvement in any plans for develop- ment; 19. Encourage the formation of a four-city recreation coordinating committee, including representatives from the various Parks and Recreation Commissions or Committees and the Director of Recreation or a representative from each agency. 20. Seek an arrangement with the County of Los Angeles granting review rights over all County development of lands within the City and the Peninsula, with partic- ular emphasis on Palos Verdes Shoreline Park, Friendship Park and South Coast Regional Park to be located on the Peninsula landfill. B. GOAL: To develop one active recreation site in the Miraleste area of the City. c. RECOMMENDATIONS: 21 . Proceed with negotiations and feasibility study of acquisition of the Miraleste Elementary School site from the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District; 22. If acquisition is successful, proceed with design of an active recreation site in fiscal year 1989-90; 23. If feasible, continue the leases of the current tenants on the site on a month-to-month basis to off-set the cost of maintenance during the design process. GOAL: To develop a passive recreation site on the -11- ~. \ .-, ', SS2c-16 Sanitation Districts' Westmont Avenue site. RECOMMENDATIONS: 24. Finalize the contract with the Sanitation Districts by . September 5, 1989; 25. Begin construction by March 1, 1990; 26. Conduct dedication ceremony by July 1, 1990. D. GOAL: To continue to ensure provision of adequate park marntenance. RECOMMENDATIONS: 27. Continue to follow established standards for provision of adequate park maintenance; 28. Continue to implement established controls on user agreements to assure that areas are kept clean; 29. Continue to provide for user-fees in conformance with established policies to offset the annual cost of maintenance; 30. Continue to provide for park maintenance in the City's annual budget. E. GOAL: To provide appropriate access routes, park- --· ·----- ing, landscaping, sanitation and utilities on park sites. -12- _...._ ______ ·-~-~ ~·-y~ ~..... .... .................. -·~ "'·'"'~~·-···---- SS2c-17 F. GOAL: To provide tennis courts in diverse locatiof\5 which meet the standards for courts per citizens as provided by the National Recreation and Park Association: RECOMMENDATIONS: 31. Continue to utilize all existing courts available in Rancho Palos Verdes and on the Peninsula; assist with upgrade where needed; and coordinate and plan the maintenance of courts with the school district; 32. Consider courts for Hesse Park as the first new court project; 33. Work with developers in the Coastal Zone to provide for public access to courts; 34. Prohibit lighted courts in areas where the lights would cause adverse visual impact; 35. Consider all private and public alternatives for financing; 36. Implement 'private development on public land' policy Where feasible; 37. Establish user-fee criteria where appropriate. G. GOAL: To provide space for outdoor concerts, stage performances, exhibits, carnivals, fairs, festi- vals and other assemblages of people. RECOMMENDATIONS: -13- SS2c-18 38. Provide space for and construct an amphitheatre on the Pt. Vicente/Civic Center Park site; 39. Continue to implement established criteria for identi tied uses to provide for limited impact upon surround- ing neighborhoods; 40. Continue to impose established user-fees to offset the costs of maintenance of these areas. H. GOAL: To provide picnic areas at various loca- tions throughout the City. RECOMMENDATIONS: 41. Continue to add picnic facilities at selected parks; 42. Develop an outdoor group barbeque facility, including shelter and tables. Consider Portuguese Bend fields as an appropriate site. I. GOAL: To require green belts or other separations between parks and residential areas to minimize nuisance effect and enhance aesthetic appeal. Ill. POLICY: The City should play a leading role in the develop- ment of centers for cultural and community activities. A. GOAL: To continue to support increasing use of scho·o1 facilities under the Civic Center Act. RECOMMENDATIONS: 43. Continue to utilize all available public schools on the Peninsula for recreational programs; 44. Continue to implement user-fee programs on these sites to offset the costs of such use; -14- SS2c-19 44. Continue to implement user-fee programs on these sites to offset the costs of such use; 45. Seek an arrangement with the School District to provide for maintenance of selected District soccer fields in lieu of constructing additional City fields. The District to be responsible for providing adequate watering of such fields. B. GOAL: To support and give priority to the estab- lishment of one or more community centers. · RECOMMENDATIONS: 46. Seek to develop a senior citizen center -on the Pt. Vicente Park/Civic Center Site. Give high priority to acquisition of funding for the center from the Joslyn Foundation; 47. Provide for community meeting places in the design of a new city hall complex; 48. Continue to provide for community meeting places on all park sites where appropriate in accordance with the established policy; 49. Initiate immediate planning for an educational center at Pt. Vicente Interpretive Center: a. provide for display space for the existing and expanded exhibits; b. . provide for a library/meeting room/ lounge for the docent organization; c. provide adequate office space; d. provide one or more classrooms for educational programs; -15-SS2c-20 e. provide for a large multi-purpose room for community functions, banquets_and weddings; f. provide for kitchen facilities; g. provide adequate storage; h. site the building to take the best advantage of view and coastline access; i. provide for a schedule of facility-use fees which would offset the costs of operation and maintenance of the facility; j. convert the existing facility into a gift shop; k. seek outside funding for design, construction and equipment,from coastal developers, Friends of Pt.Vicente Interpretive Center, and State, Federal or private foundation grants. IV. POLICY: The City should continue to encourage and support privately operated recreation facilities. A. GOAL: To support the development and expansion of private and commercial recreation facilities in areas that do not significantly interfere with residential com- munities. - RECOMMENDATIONS: 50. Declare an open invitation to receive proposals from private and commercial developers for development of needed recreational amenities on public lands in accordance with the adopted 'Private Development on Public Lands' policy; -16- ... , ...... ~··•'' , ................... ,., ..... .___ ........ _ ... _ ... SS2c-21 51. Establish criteria for such facilities which will .assure their aesthetic and functional value to the community; 52. Provide for priority or reduced fee usage for residents of Rancho Palos Verdes. V. POLICY: The City should develop plans to preserve natural, geographical, archaeological, historical, and other unique sites. A. GOAL: To inventory these sites. RECOMMENDATIONS: 53. Undertake identification of these sites and write a synopsis of the significance of each along with rec- ommendations for its preservation; 54. Initiate a City ordinance to protect unique geological and archaeological sites from desecration and · vandalism. B. GOAL: Designate unique sites. RECOMMENDATIONS: 55. Except archaeological sites, provide markers, walk- ways, signs, etc., which would enable the public to view, yet realize and appreciate the significance of what the site represents; 56. Encourage civic groups to undertake site designation as a service project. C. GOAL: To institute special ordinances to prevent construction on or destruction of these sites. -17-SS2c-22 D. GOAL: To acquire first right of purchase of these sites. RECOMMENDATIONS: 59. Determine ownership and open negotiations for donation or purchase of selected sites; 60. Continue work with the Wallace Radio Ranch Foun-- dation to complete the development of a commemo- rative park and museum on the Wallace Antenna Farm property. E. GOAL: To develop roadside stops at scenfo sites. 61. Work with developers in the coastal zone to provide for vista points with safe access; 62. Review each proposed tract map to determine feasi- bility of vista points and provide for them; 63. · Include in the development of all City parklands provi- sions for vista points. VI. POLICY: The City should improve transportation options by developing a system of trails and paths. A. GOAL: To develop foot and bicycle pathways linking neighborhoods with shopping areas, schools and rec- reational sites. B. GOAL: To develop bicycle, jogging and footpaths along the coastline. C. GOAL: To develop hiking trails or paths in the City to provide for access where the terrain is rugged. D. GOAL: To develop equestrian trails that link with those in other Peninsula cities. -18- SS2c-23 RECOMMENDATIONS: 62. Coordinate the Parks and Recreation Goals with the General Plan and the Coastal Specific Plan; 63. Continue work by the Trails Committee to develop the City's Trails Network Plan including: a. siting of trails segments for pedestrian, equestrian, bicyclist and mountain bicyclist; b. recommend trail development standards; c. a priority listing of trails segments; d. development of an implementation process; e. development of a safety and signage program; f. development of maintenance standards; g. proposals for funding options and resources for construction and maintenance of trails. 64. Provide for tract map review on each development project by the Trails Committee to site appropriate trail amenities and easements; 65. Provide for development of trails across new tracts as conditions of approval; 66. Integrate recommended bicycle path construction with new road construction; 67. Coordinate linkage of bicycle paths and trails with other Peninsula cities; -19-SS2c-24 68. Establish protective measures at all points of trail or pathway access which will protect the marine, geologic and historic environments; 69. Retain equestrian trails in areas that are appropriately zoned, and on trails which connect equestrian zones; 70. Seek funding for trails development from all available appropriate resources. VII. POLICY: The City should use various sources for funding the acquisition and operation of parks and recreation lands and facilities. A. GOAL: To establish and use specific revenue resources for development of parks and recreation facilities. RECOMMENDATIONS: 71. Continue to designate revenue from the Environ- mental Excise Tax Fund for the exclusive purpose of parks development; 72. Utilize coastal in lieu fees where appropriate for the development of parks in the coastal zone; 73. Continue to designate surplus revenue from Abalone Cove Shoreline Park fees to provide for development of that site; 7 4. Continue to designate Pt. Vicente Interpretive Center gift shop net profit for development, enhancement and repairs to the exhibits. B. GOAL: To require builders and developers to provide lands or funds for the acquisition of lands. -20-SS2c-25 :• RECOMMENDATIONS: 75. Obtain suitable land in preference to funds in the application of the Quimby Act. C. GOAL: To be consistent in seeking outside funding for the development of parks and recreation lands and facilities. RECOMMENDATIONS: 76. Monitor actively the availab.ility of suitable grant funding from Federal, State, County, Local and private foundation resources; 77. Assign a member of the Recreation and Parks staff to research and prepare applications for grants. D. GOAL: To encourage gifts of land, money and equipment for parks and recreation use. RECOMMENDATIONS: 78. Continue to seek financial assistance from local chari- table, civic and special interest organizations for the development and maintenance of parks and recrea- tion facilities and programs; 79. Update the 'gifts 'tor parks' program and re-issue the brochure during fiscal year 1989-90. E. GOAL: To charge user-fees for the use of recreation facilities and programs where practical, appropriate and fair. RECOMMENDATIONS: 80. Revise the 'Facility Use Policy and Fee Schedule' during fiscal year 1989-90 and bi-annually thereafter. -21- SS2c-26 81. Complete a fiscal analysis of Recreation Program fees and expenditures and revise formulas, class offerings, and pay rates as appropriate to increase reve- nue during fiscal year 1989-90. VIII. POLICY: The City should continue to a) encourage developers and landholders to preserve land as open space; and b) encour- age developers and landholders to include land for recreational use in their development plans. IX. POLICY: The City should encourage local citizens_to participate to the maximum extent possible in the planning, development, maintenance and operation of recreation lands and facilities and programs. A. GOAL: To utilize the resources and talents of commu- nity organizations and local citizens in the planning, development, maintenance and operation of recreation lands, facilities and programs. RECOMMENDATIONS: 82. Re-establish a Recreation and Parks Committee to: a. serve as an advisory body to the City Council on matters of Park Planning; b. consider those items referred to the Committee by the City Council or staff; c. provide for a public forum for the City Council in matters involving park development and related issues; d. review, comment and recommend on Capital Improvement Programs pertaining to parks and recreation facilities; e. provide for review of proposed developments for the determination of parkland dedication. -22- SS2c-27 83. Continue to develop appropriate organizations affili- ated with the Department of Recreation and Parks to provide volunteer opportunities which will enhance programs, facilities and the ability to acquire lands, develop and maintain facilities and maintain and expand programs; 84. Establish parks and recreation ad hoc committees throughout the community to assist with park and recreation planning as appropriate. X. POLICY: The City should support all methods at its disposal to provide for the beautification of public places. A. GOAL: To establish and implement an "Art in Public Places Program" by February 1, 1990. B: GOAL: To seek revenue resources outside the City budget to provide for art in public places. C. GOAL: To set as conditions for major developments, the installation of art in public places. XI. POLICY: The city shall have a separate and distinct Recreation and Parks Department. MISSION: It sh al I be the purpose of the Department of Recreation and Parks to develop and implement recreation programs, facili- ties, and activities focusing on the pursuit of a meaningful use of leisure time and the improvement of the quality of life for all resi- dents of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. A. GOAL: To practice and communicate the philosophy that recreation means any activity, voluntarily engaged in, which allows for the education, entertainment, and physical, mental, cultural or moral development of any participant or observer which leads to an advanced feeling of self-worth. -23-SS2c-28 B. GOAL: To develop continuous and expanding programs which are responsive to the needs and desires of the commu- nity, and provide both structured and drop-in programs for all ages in as many areas of interest as possible; at the same time providing for those who wish to avail themselves of City facilities on a self-directed basis. C. GOAL: To develop, expand, change, curtail or eliminate operations to provide equal recreation opportunities for all citizens of Rancho Palos Verdes. D. GOAL: To participate in the process of facility development to provide those which are properly designed for the proposed use; aesthetically pleasing; cost efficient; and provide for effective and responsible stewardship of public funds. E. GOAL: To keep abreast of trends and changes that affect the level of service and type of programming and facility needs. F. GOAL: To be sensitive to and cooperative with other service providing agencies to avoid duplication of effort and ensure maximum public benefit. G. GOAL: To establish and maintain 'user-friendly'policies, practices and procedures that afford the public a maximum opportunity for enjoyment of City facilities and programs while providi'ng for the most effective management of facilities and personnel. H. -GOAL: To be constantly aware of pending legislation and make recommendations to the City Council to support or oppose those which would impact Park and Recreation opportunities in the City. I. GOAL: To conduct the Department's business in a manner which will provide recognition as a highly ethical and respon- sible organization among employees, taxpayers, suppliers, governmental and private agencies, the press and the public. -24- SS2c-29 ; . J. GOAL: To actively seek new ways to reduce operating expenses, and to monitor constantly and consistently revenues and expenditures to prevent deficit spending. K. GOAL: To provide a consistent vehicle for expanded services by seeking opportunities for joint ventures with other agencies. L. GOAL: To maintain an operating climate that will attract and retain the most qualified and competent of employees and contribute to their continuing growth and commitment to the citizens of Rancho Palos Verdes and to the Recreatfon Profession. M. GOAL: To develop and provide continuing training and evaluation to provide for the optimum development of department personnel. N. GOAL: To foster a climate wherein innovation is an accept- able and encouraged practice, and staff is recognized and rewarded for their contributions to the quality of life of the residents of Rancho Palos Verdes. 0. GOAL: To provide a consistent and effective risk manage- ment system for participants and employees alike. P. GOAL: To provide a cooperative environment with other City Departments to positively affect park development, main- tenance and operations. Q. GOAL: To provide a ready resource for assistance in all aspects of the delivery of City services and programs. -25- SS2c-30 CITY PARKS, and PARKLANDS DESCRIPTIONS SS2c-31 ABALONE COVE SHORELINE PARK Abalone Cove Shoreline Park is located at 5970 Palos Verdes Drive South and features two beaches (Abalone and Sacred Coves), tidepools, bluff top viewing areas and trails crisscrossing the area. The park contains a State Ecological Preserve and taking of protected animals and marinelife is prohibited. Abalone Cove Beach is staffed by a lifeguard year-around. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Size: 80 acres (1 O developed) 100,000 square feet of tidepools, 6681 linear feet of beach front. Abalone Cove Beach: 36.84 acres, Sacred Cove: 39.55 acres. Orientation: South facing Slopes: Steep bluffs in some areas Access: Direct access to parking lot off of Palos Verdes Dr. South. Access to Abalone Cove Beach is by a long trail from the parking lot. To access Sacred Cove, users must walk along Palos Verdes Drive South to one of two trails be- tween Portuguese and Inspiration Points. -26-SS2c-32 Vegetation: Native with limited introduced vegetation. Views: Spectacular ocean and island views. Utilities: Available EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS (1989): Lifeguard station, parking lot, chemical · toilets, ticket booth, pre-school building, play· equipment and covered patio. OWNER: City of Rancho Palos Verdes Redevelopment Agency. Transferred to the RDA as a part of the 1988 Horan Lawsuit settlement. ACQUISITION COST: $0 FY 1989-90 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS: Installation of safety railing on the bluff tops above Abalone Cove and around Portuguese Point; construction of twenty picnic pads, five to be handi- capped accessible; entry sign and landscaping; entry building with office, restrooms, and storage facilities; and enlargement of the parking lot by seventy spaces. $137,000 Abalone Cove Revenues 100,000 E.E.T. Fund COST: $237-,000 Approved April 18, 1989 FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES: Classification A: Pave paths from the parking lot accessing the picnic tables along the bluf. Defer all other future development pending completion of the RDA project. -27-SS2c-33 CLOVERCLIFF PARK Clovercliff Park, located at 28801 Golden Meadow Drive, is a .17 acre vest pocket, passive park. The land was donated to the City by Mr. and Mrs. Chet Mackiewicz and Mr. and Mrs. Jim Gehris in Jurie, 1978. The Mackeiwicz's and Gehris' envisioned a landscaped park where residents could enjoy the neighbor- hood in a peaceful setting. Clovercliff was developed by the City in 1983 and dedication ceremonies were held on March 24, 1984. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION Orientation: East-west axis Slopes: To the west Access: Public streets on east side. Vegetation: Landscaped in low maintenance plantings with seating available on large rocks. Views: Distant ocean view Utilities: Available EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS (1989) Path, landscaping, irrigation COST: Acquisition: $0 Construction: $19,500 (1983) OWNER: City of Rancho Palos Verdes CONSTRAINTS: Deeds limit amenities to walkways and benches. FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES: No changes or additions. -28-SS2c-34 DEL CERRO PARK Del Cerro Park, located at #2 Park Place at the terminus of Crenshaw Boulevard, is a 4.5 acre passive park with outstanding vistas and limited activities. · The site was acquired at no cost from the Federal Government when the radar installation, previously located there, was declared surplus. The land at Del Cerro Park was originally inhabited by Gabrielino Indians, who had temporary encampments there during part of the year. The Indians left behind stone tools, abalone and other shells, beads and the skeletal remains of one of their members. Artifacts from this site are in possession of the City and some may be seen at Pt. Vicente Interpretive Center. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Orientation: Slopes: Access: Vegetation: Views: Utilities: North-south axis Flat play area, sloping to a sweeping bluff top Access road onto the site from a major boulevard which now dead-ends near the site. Landscaped, turf and trees Panoramic views of canyons, agriculture, coastal headlands, ocean, and offshore islands. . Available -29-SS2c-35 EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS: Parking lot, landscaping, and irrigation system. COST: Acquisition: $0 Improvements: $39,400 (1983 cost) OWNER: City of Rancho Palos Verdes CONSTRAINTS: Park only (terms of title); limited parking. FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES: Classification: Immediate Classification: A Classification: C Safety fencing just below the bluff to restrict access to the canyon below without blocking the view. Permanent restroom facility Tot lot and play equipment Pedestrian trail connecting the bluff with the parking lot Five to ten picnic tables near the grove of trees below the blufftop area. -30-SS2c-36 EASTVIEW PARK Eastview Park, at 1700 Westmont Avenue, is a 9.9 acre undeveloped parcel of land owned by the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts. The parcel is zoned for recreation use. The City has signed a long-term lease with the Sanitation Districts. Plans for the park have been drawn after much community discussion and input. Construction on the park is scheduled to begin in March, 1990, with a projected dedication date of July 1 , 1990. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Orientation: Slopes: Access: Vegetation: Views: Utilities: North frontage on Westmont Drive just east of Western Avenue. The site is fairly level with Westmont for first 150'- 250' then site steps up and has a gentle slope upward along the west and south sides. At south and west property lines is a fairly steep slope back up to adjoining properties. From Westmont, existing gated access Imported plantings along fence line surrounding the property, some trees. None Available EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS: None OWNER: Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts CONSTRAINTS: Area set aside for access to the outfall tunnels beneath the site. The terms of the lease agreement provide for cancellation of the lease in the event the Sanitation Districts must have access to the tunnels for repairs. FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES: Children's playground, permanent rest- room, jogging path,picnic facilities, landscaping and irrigation, and an off- street parking lot. -31-SS2c-37 FRED HESSE JR. COMMUNITY PARK Fred Hesse, Jr. Community Park is located at 29301 Hawthorne Boulevard, and is designated an actiye park. This former High School Site was purchased from the Palos Verdes Penin- sula Unified School District in 1977. The facility is named to honor Fred Hesse, Jr. who, even though a resident of Rolling Hills, was active in the incorporation efforts of Rancho Palos Verdes. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Size: Orientation: Slopes: Access: Vegetation: Views: Utilities: 29.4 acres total, 10.4 acres developed. East-west axis Gentle with major grade change between the upper and lower areas. 800' frontage along Hawthorne Blvd. There is an additional point of entry on Locklenna Lane. Ten fully landscaped acres. Plantings are of drought tolerant, low maintenance performance species. Four acres of manicured turf. Distant sweeping ocean view Power lines along Hawthorne Blvd. EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS (1989): 10 acres developed with par course, Community Building, playing fields, play equipment, restrooms and parking lot. -32-SS2c-38 COST: OWNER: CONSfRAINTS : Acquisition $ 1,500,000 Development 3,890,773 Total $ 5,390,773 City of Rancho Palos Verdes Parcel "4" (c) was purchased with Federal Land and Water grant monies.Development is limited to park use. Development will impact housing along the northern property line. An embankment protects some lots slightly. A steep slope divides the site into two parts. The site has been a designated Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly habitat. FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES: Classification: B On Lower Hesse, construct four to eight regula- tion tennis courts, permanent restrooms and parking. The remainder of the area is to be landscaped as a passive, open greenbelt. -33-SS2c-39 GRANDVIEW PARK Grandview Park is located at 6000 Ironwood Street and has been designated a passive site. The· seventeen acre, former intermediate school site, was pur- chased from the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Size: 17 acres Orientation: Hilltop and south-facing bowl Slopes: 5-6 acres of flat area; falls off steeply on three sides. Access: 80' frontage on arterial between two lots. Dirt road onto the site from western parking lot. Vegetation: Natural Views: Excellent views of golf course and greenbelt, inland toward Los Angeles, coastline and ocean. Utilities: Power lines along swale parallel to western parking lot. EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS: (1989) None OWNER: CONSTRAINTS: City of Rancho Palos Verdes -fee title/from Palos Verdes Unified School District. Parking lot ends at base of swales, so that swales cannot be filled to create more usable flat areas on the east. Only one very narrow point of entry from Montemalaga Drive. Development of the site may impact adjacent housing, particularly those fronting on Montemalaga Drive. However, grading the hilltop will possibly improve their views. -34-SS2c-40 ACQUISITION COST: $175,000 FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES: Classification: A Classificaton: B Install a parking lot and provide for vehicular and pedestrian access. Improve into a cultivated, passive open space with a small tot lot, restrooms and five to ten picnic sites. (tables and pads) in the bowl below the plateau. -35-SS2c-41 LADERA LINDA COMMUNITY CENTER Ladera Linda Community Center is located at 32201 Forrestal Drive. This former elementary school is designated an Active/Community Park. The property was purchased from the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District after much community involvement and input. Payment for the site included a trade of the Loma Del Mar School Site previously purchased by the City and cash paid over a three year period. Purchase was com- pleted in fiscal year 1985-86. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Size: 11 acres Orientation: Slopes: Northwest-southeast Stepped areas Access: Vegetation: Views: Utilities: Frontage and access on Forrestal Drive Landscaped Excellent views of the cliff face, hillsides, coastline, and ocean. Available EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS (1989): Classrooms, playground, restrooms, parking lot, paddle tennis courts, par course, bas- ketball courts, soccer and softball fields. Some of the property is leased for commercial satellite dish antennae and telephone -36-SS2c-42 OWNER: CONSTRAINTS: ACQUISITION COST: Ladera Linda Community Center is the home of the "Discovery Room". This unique area features live and static exhibits of local flora, fauna and historic information. A cooperative program with the Los Angeles County Museum of history provides for special, 'on-loan' exhbits from their extensive collection. Staff and volunteers provide educational pro- grams on-site and in local hills and canyons for· a large variety of school and youth groups. City of Rancho Palos Verdes Existing development $-730,000 FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES: Classification: C Improve the middle and upper parking lots as needed. Regrade and pave the access road between the lower and middle parking lots. -37-SS2c-43 MARTINGALE TRAILHEAD PARK Martingale Trailhead Park, located at 22 Martingale Drive, is a 1.2 acre site. The park was constructed in 1989. It provides for 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. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Orientation: Slopes: Vegetation: View: Utilities: Northwest Flat area fronting the drive, sloping steeply into the canyon at the rear of the property. Oleanders, California Pepper Tree and native plants. Canyons and hillsides None EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS: Landscapin'g; a tri-level drinking fountain which OWNER: CONSTRAINTS: COSTS: serves horses, humans and small animals; a mounting block, seating rock and California Pepper Tree. City of Rancho Palos Verdes None Acquisition: Development $46,700 in 1978 $ 5,000 FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES: None -38-SS2c-44 POINT VICENTE PARK Point Vicente Park is a regional recreation facility located on a former Nike Missie Base and rifle range. Point Vicente Park/Civic Center is located at 30940 Hawthorne Boulevard. Point Vicente Interpretive Center is located at 31501 Palos Verde Drive West. Although originally designated Pt. Vicente Park, the two areas are now treated independently. The Interpretive Center site totals twenty eight acres, ten of which have been devel- oped. The property is leased from the County of Los Angeles Department of Beaches and Harbors for a fifty-five year period. Pt. Vicente Park/Civic Center occupies seventy one acres. Eight and one quarter acres were purchased outright for a Civic Center. The remaining acreage was deeded to the City at no charge in 1977 by the Federal Government after the Nike Site had been declared surplus property. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Size: Orientation: Slopes: Vegetation: Interpretive Center Pt. Vicente Park Civic Center Tot~I 28 acres 62.75 acres 8.25 acres 99 acres Primarily south-west to south-east facing slopes. The northernmost area of the site east of Palos Verdes Drive West faces northwest. · Extremely steep slopes and seacliffs account for 50% of the total area of both sites. A relatively flat hilltop at Pt. Vicente/Civic Center is accessible from Hawthorne Blvd. Pt. Vicente Interpretive Center is landscaped in low maintenance, drought tolerant plantings; intro- duced trees and limited turf areas. A California Native Plant exhibit is also present. - ·~ ...... -~ .. -. -·..--~ -39- SS2c-45 .. (· Views: Utilities: Pt. Vicente Park/Civic Center has limited plantings consisting of introduced trees and shrubs and a small turf area. Native cacti and other natural plants are present throughout the undeveloped portions of the site. Panoramic ocean/island views are visible from all parts of the site. Pt. Vicente Interpretive Center has dramatic cliff, cove, shoreline, headland and island views. The Interpretive Center is an ideal location for viewing the migration of the Pacific Gray whale, October thru April each year. Available EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS (1989)--Pt. Vicente Park/Civic Centex: OWNER: Tennis courts,· grassy quad area, helicj:>ter pad used for model helicopter port. A multi-purpose athletic field is partially completed. Pt. Vicente Interpretive Center: Museum, trails, picnic and vista areas, land- scaping, turf areas, restrooms and parking lots. Interpretive Center: The land is owned by the County of Los Angeles Department of Beaches and Harbors. Improvements are City owned. Pt. Vicente Park/Civic Center: City of RPV -40-SS2c-46 CONSTRAINTS: Park use only, program of utilization must be approved by the National Park Service, (except civic center land) under the terms of the deed and lease. Steep slopes are present on the Pt. Vicente Park/Civic Center site. The climate is damper and foggier than elsewhere on the Peninsula. ACQUISITION COSTS: $0 (formerly Federally owned) FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES: Pt. Vicente Park/Civic Center . Classification: Immediate Classification: A Classification: B Develop a senior citizens center. Add irrigation, turf, and fencing to the par- tially completed athletic field. Add a public restroom facility; Construct two paddle tennis courts; Add pedestrian paths throughout the property. Construct a permanent amphi- theatre with tiered, semi-circular bench seating with backs. Pt. Vicente Interpretive Center Classification A: On Both Sites: Develop an educational center; add interp- retive signage; and obtain an agreement with the U.S. Coast Guard for access to the lighthouse to conduct docent led tours. Build a municipal golf course which will wrap around existing and proposed park facilities and utilize neighboring privately held property to give it the proper size to be a championship course. Rancho Palos Verdes residents should be given priority as to starting times and fees. -41- SS2c-47 .. PORTUGUESE BEND FIELDS The Portuguese Bend Fields are located at 32201 Forrestal Drive and are functionally at- tached to Ladera Linda Com- munity Center. The 21.9 acre facility is designated an active site and features softball and soccer as well as major spe- cial events and corporate pic- nics. The acreage is the property of the Palos Verdes Penin- sula Unified School District and has been held by the City under a lease whose terms ran through 1991. The City was notified in 1988 that the District had de- clared the property surplus and was exercising the cancellation clause present in the lease. The City currently continues to utilize the property, and is in discus- sions with the District to purchase the property. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Size: Orientation: Slopes: Access: Vegetation: Views: Utilities: 21.9 acres Facing south-west Flat, graded terraces bounded by steep sides. Marginally surfaced road leading to the playing fields from Intrepid Drive. The main access point is at the upper terrace to the north end of Forres- tal Drive thro4gh a security gate. Pedestrian access is available from Ladera Linda Community· Center. Turf and some native plantings Excellent 360 degree views of cliff face, flanking hillsides, coastline, Long Point, ocean, and off- shore islands. Available EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS (1989): Softball diamond, backstop and dugouts; soccer fields with permanent and practice goals, irrigation system, portable restroom facilities and parking lot. OWNER: Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District -42-SS2c-48 CONSTRAINTS: ACQUISITION COST: Lease through 1991 with 30 day cancellation clause. Cancellation clause has been exercised. Wind -which is mitigated to some extent by uphill cliffs. To be determined. FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES: . Classification: Immediate Classification: A Classification: C Purchase this site from the Palos Verdes Penin- sula Unified School District. Add a permanent group picnic pavilion, shuf- fleboard courts and horseshoe pits; add barbecue pits near picnic structure; add water fountains and water outlet only if group picnic shelter is constructed; add a small building with public restrooms, office and storage similar to that being constructed at Abalone Cove Shoreline Park. Add benches for casual seating facing the ocean; provide for landscaping as necessary. -43- . . ' SS2c-49 RANCHO PALOS VERDES PARK Rancho Palos Verdes Park is an eleven acre neighborhood park located at 30359 Hawthorne Boulevard. The park was constructed during 1968 and 1969 by the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation. Upon the in- corporation of the City, title to the park was transferred to the City. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: ?f.~·-ll ~ Orientation: East-west Slopes: Graded terraces Access: Driveway access and frontage on Hawthorne Boulevard. Vegetation: Landscaped: im- ported trees, low maintenance plantings, turf. Views: Excellent ocean views. Utilities: Available EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS (1989):Community building, play equipment, picnic and grassy areas, restrooms, parking lot, and baseball diamond. OWNER: City of Rancho Palos Verdes . CONSTRAINTS: Park only (deed restriction) and limited parking. ACQUISITION COST: $0 FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES: None -44- SS2c-50 "SWITCHBACKS" The Switchbacks are located on the inland side of Palos Verdes Drive South, flanking Palos Verdes Drive East. This 94.15 acres of land was acquired in satisfaction of the Quimby Act. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Orientation: Slopes: Access: Vegetation: Views: South facing Steep Informal pullouts off Palos Verdes Drive East which bisects property Native Spectacular ocean and island views EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS (1989): None CONSTRAINTS: Unstable land, open space hazard zoning, limited access. ACQUISITION COST: $0 FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES: Leave as natural open space. -45- • lj ~ SS2c-51 FRANK A. VANDERLIP, SR. PARK Frank A. Vanderlip, Sr. Park is a .48 acre passive/view park lo- cated at 6500 Seacove. The park was constructed in satis- faction o'fthe Quimby Act in con- junction with a development located across Seacove. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Size: Orientation: Slopes: Access: Landscaped: Views: Utilities: .48 Acres north south axis Flat with steep bluff Between two lots, adjacent to wide residential street Low maintenance vegetation, no turf Ocean, headlands and island views Available EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS: Bike path, benches, railing, landscape improve- ments and irrigation system COST: OWNER: CONSTRAINTS: ACQUISITION COST: $100,000+ (by developer) City of Rancho Palos Verdes Park only (Quimby); no on-site parking $0 FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES: Install safety railing at the bluff edge along the trail easement across Tract 39672 and provide for access from Vanderlip Park. -46- SS2c-52 DON C. WALLACE RADIO RANCH MUSEUM The Don C. Wallace Radio Ranch Museum will be located on the site of Mr. Wallace's former radio antenna farm, near the corner of Armaga Springs Road and High ridge. The ~ite was the location of the most famous amateur radio station in the world; the World War II Pacific Theatre news was received there. This area.of the Palos Verdes hills is coveted by many radio services as a base to reach California, the USA, and the world. PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Size: Orientaiton: Access: Vegetation: Views: Utilities: 32,000 square feet East west axis Access road from Armaga Springs Road None Coastal views will be partially blocked by adjacent development. Available EXISTING IMPROVEMENTS: None COST: OWNER: CONSTRAINTS: Acquisition: $0 (Quimby funds) City of Rancho Palos Verdes Development of museum hinges upon Wallace Museum Foundation success at fund raising for development, operation, and maintenance costs FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES: Unspecified -47- - ., -· ~ .. ,. ·-~···--··· ···~ ~~-+ ·-• -• • r; ., .• SS2c-53