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RES NO 06-06-2025
CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS RESOLUTION NO& - O�- 2025 BE IT ENACTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL,FOR THE CITY OF VAN BUREN, ARKANSAS,A RESOLUTION TO BE ENTITLED: A RESOLUTION ADOPTING AN UPDATED PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN FOR THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS,AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. WHEREAS, the City of Van Buren, Arkansas, desires to make parks and recreation improvements within the City, and to commence the projects. The City Council approves the development of an updated Parks and Recreation Master Plan; and WHEREAS, the citizens of Van Buren, Arkansas, participated in the development of the updated Master Plan through meetings of the Van Buren Parks and Recreation Commission, by responding to online survey questions, and through other public meetings and community events held at various stages of the plan development; and WHEREAS, the completed updated Master Plan will serve as a framework for guiding improvements and developments of the parks and recreation facilities in the City of Van Buren, Arkansas, and as a guide for budgeting for improvements on an annual basis, and for the application of grants through various sources; and WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Commission has recommended that the City Council adopt the updated Parks and Recreation Master Plan dated 2025. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VAN BUREN,ARKANSAS, THAT: SECTION 1: The updated Parks and Recreation Master Plan, dated 2025, is hereby adopted by the City of Van Buren to be used as a framework for guiding the improvements and development of the parks and recreation facilities in the City of Van Buren, Arkansas. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the City pf Van Buren, Arkansas, by its City Council, did pass, approve, and adopt, by a vote of V for and against, the foregoing Resolution at its regular meeting held on the 231 of June 2025. 3C,\e4s h P. Hurst ATTEST APPRO TOFORM: _ v Shawnna Reynolds Jaco Howell City Clerk/Treasurer City Attorney C C �D rn f �20 CD %, t _;�..'•c 1 ........ s e*R � o EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 4 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS PURPOSE OF THE PLAN In the fall of 2024, the City of Van Buren retained MAHG Architecture to PLANNING PROCESS assist the Van Buren Parks and Recreation Commission in updating its 10- HOW TO USE THE PLAN year old Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Participants in the planning process included the following persons: PLANNING CONTEXT 6 HISTORY/ OVERVIEW CITY OF VAN BUREN MISSION -VISION Joseph Hurst, Mayor PREVIOUS PLANNING HISTORY VAN BUREN PARKS & RECREATION COMMUNITY PRIORITIES AND NEEDS 14 COMMISSION MEMBERS IN-PERSON COMMUNITY WORKSHOP FEEDBACK Michael Brammer, Chairman ONLINE SURVEY FEEDBACK Debbie Thomas, Secretary COMMISSION MEETING FEEDBACK Brandy Mosby Tyler Wood THE MASTER PLAN 28 Doug Young GUIDING PRINCIPLES Julie Jett, Staff Coordinator OVERVIEW PRIORITIES MAHG ARCHITECTURE Galen Hunter,AIA Timothy Varner,AIA An I so INTRODUCTION PLANNING PROCESS The City of Van Buren,through the oversight of the Parks and Recreation The Master Plan planning process highlighted a series of tasks that,when Commission, engaged MAHG Architecture, Inc. to provide guidance completed, can serve as documentation and information to inform the in updating the vision and goals for the City's parks and recreational parks development in the future.These tasks established at the beginning programs. In 2015,the City adopted the Parks and Recreation Master Plan of the planning process included: developed by CEI. The 2015 Master Plan highlighted various immediate needs (0-2 years), near-term needs (3-5 years), and long-term needs (6-10 o Task 1: Kick-off Meeting - Review the 2015 Master Plan with the years). Many of those immediate and near-term needs outlined have been Parks and Recreation Commission, discuss what has been completed accomplished necessitating additional guidance for shaping the City of from 2015 to 2024, discuss the desired outcome of the updated Van Buren's parks currently as well as in the future. Master Plan, review the proposed process, and assess needed inventory updates. o Task 2: Existing Inventory Analysis - Compile an updated inventory and matrix of the existing parks including individual park analysis and analysis of non-city-owned recreation facilities. o Task 3: Inventory Analysis Meeting - In-person review of city-owned and non-city-owned facilities. o Task 4: Desired Recreation Programs and Activities - Develop, PURPOSE OF THE PLAN review, and distribute a public input survey, and conduct an in-person review of desired programs and activities. The Van Buren Parks and Recreation Master Plan is intended to guide o Task 5: Program Ranking and Facility Requirements - Rank the the City of Van Buren Parks and Recreation Commission in achieving requested programs and activities, determine locations for new the community's vision for the future development of the City's parks facilities, and discuss the scope of new facilities. and recreational programs. The framework outlined in the Master Plan o Task 6: Concept Development for Preferred Projects - Develop utilized the current City of Van Buren parks properties as a takeoff point conceptual plans for preferred projects and review with the Parks for the analysis, parks commission feedback, and community input. This Commission. plan is intended to review progress completed from the previous plan o Task 7: Final Document Preparation and Presentation - Provide and recommend ways to improve upon an already successfully operating final concept drawings,text, and graphics required to complete the parks system. review and submission of the Master Plan document. 4 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 Executive Summary COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT HOW TO USE THE PLAN During the planning process, community engagement was key to ensure Through the guidance of the City of Van Buren Parks and Recreation that the future Master Plan aligns with the wants and needs of the Van Commission and the Van Buren community, this plan identifies the Buren community. This was achieved through access and distribution of City's current parks and their individual amenities, relevant planning an online survey, in-person comprehensive community input session, and context, and the wants and needs of the community. City of Van Buren monthly Parks and Recreation Commission meetings conducted in-person representatives should utilize this document as a guide to understanding where community members attended and engaged in conversation the wants and needs of their community, and should continually assess providing feedback throughout the process. the current pulse of the community to prioritize improvement projects. It was also discussed throughoutthe planning process, many of the current ,. parks have achieved, or are nearing max programming for various sites. rF The City of Van Buren should stay active in looking for opportunities to �y acquire additional assets or properties that may enhance their parks .E; system and will help in achieving the needs of the Van Buren community. Efforts should be made to continue to find ways to promote and improve _ park offerings, as well as maintain and improve their quality. Due to sequencing and projectfunding,it may prove necessary to improve d certain aspects or portions of a park or parks on varying timelines. During these developments, a more focused and detail-oriented approach will take place. It is importantto remember that this plan is designed to create a framework for design opportunities and should not act as an inhibitor to � future ideas and developments as they arise.Adjustments to the plan can, and will, be necessary to achieve future parks improvements. Residents attending public community workshop. i r f f 5 HISTORY / OVERVIEW MISSION - VIS ON The town of Van Buren,Arkansas was settled into the southwest foothills The following mission and vision statements were created by the Van of the Ozark Mountains, along the Arkansas River. Establishment of a river Buren Parks & Recreation Commission and reaffirmed by Commission port would set the economic precedent for the future development of the members during the planning process of this Master Plan document. Town. Van Buren's early trade served Native American tribes, such as the Cherokee and Osage, pushed west into territory bordering the Town MISSION and towns in Northwest Arkansas. Steamboats expanded trade to other Provide Safe Environments and Affordable Programs to Enhance Fun, river port cities along connected waterways. Railroads, including the Fitness, and Education for residents of all ages in our community. Texas and Pacific Railway, the Little Rock and Fort Smith Railroad, and the St. Louis - San Francisco Railway arrived in Van Buren in the 1870s. VISION After establishing trade on waterways and railways,Van Buren became a Van Buren will be known as a city that Celebrates and Preserves Green prosperous shipping center for agricultural products. Space, its Historic Context, and beautiful environments Supporting the With this rise in the Town's economic prosperity, Victorian architecture Health and Well-being of all ages and physical abilities. dominated Van Buren. In the years following World War II, Van Buren's economy began shifting towards manufacturing similarto many other cities during this time.The completion of Interstate-540 and Interstate-40 added another piece solidifying the City as a transportation hub. Businesses began to move to other parts of the City, away from main street, and the downtown suffered from neglect. : Van Buren's rich heritage is vital to the residents and the City has taken t h many steps to preserve its history. The introduction of a rehabilitation a and restoration program in 1972 has seen business move back into the F � � Historic Downtown, and railroad heritage preserved in the Frisco Depot x- and The Historic Arkansas River Bridge. The economy remains strong in ' manufacturing and food processing and has seen an increase in tourism. The City's parks and recreation programs have been pivotal for residents ' to have access to active and passive recreation activities and facilities. 6 The Old Frisco Depot is Van Buren's Visitor Center,located at Freedom Park. P RECREATION N MASTER PLAN 12025 Planning Context PREVIOUS PLANNING HISTORY 2015 VAN BUREN PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN The 2015 Van Buren Parks and Recreation Master Plan was developed to guide the maintenance and development of the City's parks system. Outlined in the methodology of The City of the 2015 Master Plan,the process involved taking inventory of Van Buren's parks and their VAN BUREN amenities. It also highlighted the different techniques used for community outreach being Progress Is Ow Project represented in the document.That feedback was then analyzed and returned to Parks and Recreation Committee and City staff to determine the action plan moving forward. The Master Plan then provided recommendations based on the information gathered during the Parks and Recreation ' planning process. These recommendations were broken into immediate term (0-2 years), Master Plan I January 2015 near term (3-5 years), and long term (6-10 years), and concepts were provided from seven of the City's parks. 2015 Van Buren Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Many of the recommendations provided in the 2015 Master Plan have been successfully implemented.This has resulted in a few of the parks having little room to expand on as the u s amenities appear to have reached the maximum amount of space available. 2019 VAN BUREN BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN PLAN The 2019 Van Buren Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan provides a guide with projects and policies necessary to improve the conditions for bicycling and walking through well-designed, i • unified, safe, and efficient multi-modal transportation system in the City of Van Buren.This BICYCLE AND plan acknowledges the development of Van Buren's parks and facilities and encourages enhancement of the connectivity of these spaces and others in the City through improved PEDESTRIAN pedestrian travel for local citizens as well as adjacent communities. PLAN COMMUNITY PARTNER - The City of Van Buren relies on its community partners to deliver and facilitate the current programs and events through the Parks and Recreation Commission. As plans continue to be made for the future development of the parks system, it is important for the Commission to maintain a relationship with these community partners, such as the Boys and Girls Club, local churches, local business owners, and the Van Buren School District. 20�5 Van"wren"gicyc a an ' e 7 MONTGOMERY LAKE i LEE CREEK N04T10460 sPRiNss MR.CHAD&BETTY � , ANN COLLEY LEIiACY VA EY WILDERNESS PARK ' PARK g � 1-40 1-40 "�- FIELD of DF EAMSi U SPORTS C MPLEX S-71 B.LOUIS EER VAN ZAND OR AL�RK PARK RK ARKANSAS RIVER,., CENTBAt LEEUT �G�iEEK AWNG FREED4 ; PAR x= ME YE MAYOR GENE BELL PAR PAR _ PARKS ` TAT£ SCHOOLS a.� .-US-64 RIVERSICREEKS X5, 114 ML/5 MIN.VGA . . CITY LIMITS 1540 INTERS HIGHWn * -n II�} ("� CD (D T Q 'T'I M �p Y CL -� 0 n a o CD =r O .d A c� coo 3 XCD Q o c� cp coo — co S2o co w o n) � —w CD CD W ► C7 oCD CD � N '� D -v • r M co � = o 0 = 7 _ o0 N C CD _v ti � M CDi Z -p 77 r� c 77 Playground Equipment rn ° CD :3" Picnic Area CD Mountain Biking Trail 2 CD I— o Community Center CO -, Softball Field v Baseball Field `Q Boat Ramp N N ' Pavilion Volleyball Event Stage Splash Pad War Memorial Tennis Court Walking Path Historical Wall Mural Youth Recreation Center 18-Hole Disc Golf Course Swimming Pool N Pickleball Court Ln L, Basketball Court Amphitheater Skate Park -� Multi-purpose Open Field Dog Park o Restroom Building CD X , X PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 Planning Context MAYOR GENE BELL PARK A forested environment and hilly conditions FIELD OF DREAMS SPORTS COMPLEX Mayor Gene Bell Park is a 0.322 acre provides an ideal site for the current mountain The Field of Dreams Sports Complex is a neighborhood park, situated on the edge bike trail system.While the park is surrounded baseball and softball complex within a 60 of a residential neighborhood off of South by residential neighborhoods, its location on acre lot directly adjacent to Interstate-40 11th Street just southeast of Downtown Van the western out-skirts of Van Buren means and Lee Creek.There are 9 baseball fields, 3 Buren. The park amenities include a small, the appeal of the amenities provided will softball fields, restroom facilities, playground fenced playground, picnic tables and on-site drive the use of this park. equipment and parking within the sports parking. It is a relatively new development y -3 complex. Additional parking and a boat ramp which built-out the whole lot leaving little " } are located off Toothaker Drive, adjacent to room to add to the park. the complex,and allow for boat access to Lee Creek and the Arkansas River. § q i Despite immediate access from the interstate x and high-quality facilities, a fully developed 4 site leaves little room for expansion or . �` addition of amenities. The location of the complex poses other challenges as it is Mountain bikes on trails at Wilderness Park. isolated from most of the community and there is occasional flooding of the site due to the adjacency to Lee Creek. � 9; � Playground equipment at Mayor Gene Bell Park. " max, MR. CHAD AND BETTY ANN COLLEY zm WILDERNESS PARK Mr. Chad and Betty Ann Colley Wilderness Park sits on a 55 acre lot originally planned` to be developed into more residences in the Forest Oaks subdivision. The City acquired a " - the property and created multiple mountain Mountain bike trails at Wilderness Park. biking trails on the site with parking and a trail Playground at Field of Dreams Sports Complex. head for access to the trail system. 1 PARKS & RECREATION ASTER PLAN 12025 Planning Context FREEDOM PARK Lee Creek Park can be accessed by just one Freedom Park is a community park nestled ' ' drive that first goes through Mike Meyer into the fabric of Downtown Van Buren. Park making access a concern. The park is Main Street divides the 2.5 acre park into � h� ` currently within the floodplain, but the flat, two separate areas with their own distinct Mw m wooded nature of the site is suitable for trail spaces.The section located on the south side and greenway development. of Main Street is the home of the Van Buren jhi�: Veteran Memorial offering the community an opportunity to reflect on community members who have served.To the north of Main Street, ' s� h the park's pavilions, splash pad, restroom Amenities at north side of Freedom Park. r„ facilities, event stage and green space allow the community to gather in different ways. Along with multiple parking areas as well as the Van Buren Visitor Center,these amenities and the location solidify this park as central node for the community. In a fully developed site, there is less opportunity to build upon ' Boat ramp at Lee Creek Park. the park. � 2 Splash Pad at Freedom Park. LEE CREEK PARK Lee Creek Park is 104 acres of mostly , � ••eR undeveloped land along the edge of the Arkansas River, and is the largest park in the City of Van Buren. A boat ramp and parking Van Buren Veteran's Memorial at Freedom Park. make the parka great spot for the community Camping grounds at Lee Creek Park. to access the Arkansas River. 11 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 Planning Context LEGACY VALLEY PARK _ Legacy Valley Park is on the northern edgeof the city, tucked between the Legacy Park and Legacy Valley subdivisions near Oliver Springs Elementary School. Much of the 26 acre site remains currently undeveloped aside from the Van Buren Fire Station #4 on the southeast corner of the property. Due to the high-voltage power lines and steep topography, future development of the site is limited. The Historic Wall Mural at Mike Meyer Park. Existing bridge at Mike Meyer Park. An industrial food plant, along with the VAN ZANQT PARK railroad system, separates Mike Meyer Park `t from Historic Downtown Van Buren creating Van Zandt Park is a 1 acre neighborhood park uncertainty and safety issues in howto access located within the Rolling Hills residential a the park.This industrial area produces smells, neighborhood off North 28th Street,just west noises, and unappealing views which disrupt of I-540. It has a basketball court, 2 pickleball the visitor's experience of the park's natural courts,open green space and on-site parking. landscape. Geographically located within the Adjacent to multiple neighborhoods,the park flood plain of the Arkansas River,there will be functions more as a common space rather limited opportunities for what can be built. than a facility driven park. Satellite image of Legacy Valley Park. 4_ MIKE MEYER PARK . F� y' Adjacentto Lee Creek Park, Mike Meyer Park adds another 16 acres of park land along the Arkansas River. The connection between these two parks via 1st Street allows 5k running events to be hosted here.A naturally shaded path,Wildcat Marina and the Historic Wall Mural are other reasons users visit the park. 4{. Paved trail at Mike Meyer Park. Pick(eball courts at Van Zandt Park. 12 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 Planning Context DR. LOUIS PEER MEMORIAL PARK (CITY PARK) sus f Dr. Louis Peer Memorial Park is a regional park centrally located in Van Buren. While the park is not the largest,it packs in the most amenities of any park in the Van Buren park a ° ..... . . ._.. system. Boys&Girls Club at Dr.Louis Peer Memorial Park. Disc Golf course at Dr.Louis Peer Memorial Park. Despite closing, the Cedars Country Club , buildings remain standing and offers an opportunity for the club house and golf cart PP tY building to be re-purposed. Subsequently, the golf cart trails currently serve as walking paths. The existing clubhouse was recently Lake Cap Bedell at Dr.Louis Peer Memorial Park. leased,for one-year,to Disc Golf Dojo, a disc Situated within the 45 acre park is the Boys & golf pro shop. Girls Club, Lake Cap Bedell, the Eagle's Nest 18-hole disc golf course, 4 pickleball courts, a half-court basketball court, a new Skate Shaded playground at Dr.Louis Peer Memorial Park. park, Huckelbury Field baseball field,2 picnic pavilions, a 3/4 mile walking trail around the lake, an open green space, and multiple restroom facilities and playground equipment throughout the park. A dog park is currently under construction at the south edge of the park. Open green space at Dr.Louis Peer Memorial Park. 13 M � NTYPRIORITIES GQ U I AND NEEDS .- 1 COMMUNITY OUTREACH OVERVIEW AND STRATEGY A necessary step in any sure ful master plan is listening to and understanding the wants and needs of the community. An outreach strategy was developed to ensure multi p collaborative opportunities for Van Buren community members to provide personal thoughts and concerns for the future development oE' e City`s parks and programs. The strategy to engage the Community included an in-person community workshop, an online survey, and using the Parks and Recreation Commission meetings as an opportunity for the public to engage in the process. All of the community engagement activities used throughout the planning process were open to the public allowing the community, stakeholders, and City,representatives to collaborate together. Feedback from these activities were used to understand the community's desired facilities, programs, and amenities. Community Online survey Public Parks W orkshop Responses Commission eefings PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 Community Priorities and Needs IN-PERSON COMMUNITY WORKSHOP FEEDBACK WORKSHOP METHODOLOGY PARKS & RECREATION PARKS & RECREATION Early on in the planning process, it was FACILITY NEEDS IMPROVEMENTS determined by the City of Van Buren Parks The following list contains the community's Attendees also highlighted several general and Recreation Planning Commission that feedback regarding the overall needs of the improvements for the parks system: community feedback would be the driving parks and recreation facilities system: o Native Plants [x2] force in the development of the Master Plan. o Soccer Fields [x14] o Improved water stations As a kick-off to the planning process, an o Dog Park[x7] o Equipment rentals open-invite community workshop was hosted o Pickleball [x6] (covered [x2]) o Sidewalks to City Park at the Van Buren Public Library. Planning o Indoor/community Pool [x5] o Phone app showing locations of parks, Commission members, members from MAHG o Indoor Basketball courts [A food trucks, garage sales, city activities Architecture, and community members o Multi-use trails [x3] (w/connections for o On-going dedicated funding system gathered to discuss the various parks and biking and other places, at Lee Creek provide feedback on what they thought Park) should be done to improve them. o Indoor soccer[x2] o Community center[x2] 6 Boards were placed throughout the room o Disc golf course [x2] depicting each Van Buren park and its o Outdoor amphitheater[x2] current existing amenities. Attendees o Disc golf/Restrooms at Colley Park[x1] were encouraged to leave feedback aboutg, concerns or future improvements of the o Futsal courts o Meeting Rooms parks system. They also had the opportunity o Labyrinth garden to write, next to each park board, their o Outdoor games (horseshoes, bocce, h specific recommendations or requests for an individual park.The lists found in this section cornhole) W summarize the feedback attendees wrote on o Indoor tennis courts o Covered picnic pavilions � . pa each sheet. o Splash pad o Parks and recreation programming office Residents attending the Community Workshop.M 15 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 Community Priorities and Needs COMMUNITY REQUESTS BY PARK FIELD OF DREAMS SPORTS COMPLEX LEGACY VALLEY PARK Out of the 41 attendees at the In-Person o Soccer fields [x3] o Bicycle/walking trails [x7] Community Workshop, 36 confirmed they o Pickleball courts [x3] o Trails connectto neighborhoods [x3] were residents of Van Buren. In addition to o Kayak/Canoe rental [x2] o Soccer fields [x2] the overview of feedback listed previously, o Native plants [x2] o Native plants [x2] these attendees also had the opportunity to o Futsal courts o Dog park write specific recommendations or requests o Trails along Lee Creek o Indoor soccer for each park. The following lists provide o Online request for rental/use o Disc Golf course a more complete list of the communities o Tarps for fields o Picnic pavilions requested amenities and programs: o Seating along trail FREEDOM PARK MAYOR GENE BELL PARK o Food truck area MIKE MEYER PARK o Covered seating [x21 o Clean-up/Beautification [x3] o Landscaping/Beautification [x2] LEE CREEK PART{ o Bicycle/walking trails [x31 o Soccer field with lighting o Bicycle trails [x51 o Trails connect to Lee Creek Park[x2] o Indoor Soccer o Soccer fields [A] o Native plants [x2] o Provide lighting o Hiking trails [x4] o Paddle boat/canoe rental [x2] o Shade structures o Picnic tables [x3] o Baggo and horseshoes o Pavilion o Take advantage of riverfront setting [x3] o Picnic tables o Disc Golf course [x2] o BBQ pits MR. CHAD AND BETTY ANN COLLEY o Native plants [x2] o Fix rail/fence and picnic tables WILDERNESS PARK o BBQ pits [x2] o Soccer fields [x7] o Fishing (educational) -� o Disc Golf course [x3] o Futsal courts o Bike repair outpost(tools and air) [x3] o Dog park o Dog park[x2] o Baggo and horseshoes o Futsal courts [x2] o Fishing dock o Lighting at boat ram and parking lot o Native plants [x2] 9 9 P P 9 . o Trail signage/map [x2] o Bicycle and kayak/canoe rentals o Restrooms [x2] o Pavilion o Seating and/or picnic tables [x2] o RV hookup o Indoor soccer o Improve safety and security o Parking &Trail improvement o Improve vehicle and bicycle access Residents at the Community Workshop. 16 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN ) 2025 Community Priorities and Needs DR. LOUIS PEER MEMORIAL PARK VAN ZANDT PARK m (CITY PARK) o Soccer field [x4] o Soccer field [x11] o Shade structures [x4]o Golf course [x10] o Seating for spectators [x3] � ' 'fA`` o Bicycle/walking trails [x81 o Futsal court[x3] o Additional Disc Golf course [x41 o Additional pickleball courts [x2] o Trails connect to neighborhoods/pointer o Benches [x2] - - trail [x31 o Lights for courts [x2] o Amphitheater[x31 o Indoor soccer o Pool [x2] o Hopscotch and four-square pads o Driving range [x21 o Dog park Attendee writing feedback at Community Workshop. o Futsal courts [x2] o Pavilion ` o Indoor sports complex/Community o Picnic tables a " Center [x2] o Basketball courts [x21 ' COMMUNITY CENTER o Lights for pickleball courts [x2] o Indoor soccer courts [x8] "T o Additional pickleball courts o Indoor pickleball courts [x5] o Indoor soccer o Indoor basketball courts [x41 t o Running trail o Pool (minimum of 8 lanes) [x41 with .; o Obstacle course Diving boards (1 meter) o Tennis courts o Multi-purpose room [x3] o Dog park o Fitness equipment/center[x31 Residents at the Community Workshop. o BMX park o Retractable bleachers ' o Shopwith rentalsOf il o o Small pool for toddlers �k_ Playground o Changing rooms/locker rooms with ::- o Kayaking showers o Baseball fields o Affordable rooms to rent m I o Picnic area o Futsal courts o Native plants o Outdoor pickleball courts o Disc Golf Shop o Ice skating/hockey o Timer on lights at the skate park o Outdoor trails o Picnic area outside Attendee writing feedback at Community Workshop. 17 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 Community Priorities and Needs ONLINE SURVEY FEEDBACK OVERVIEW CM, Following the in-person community workshop on, an online survey was t. 4 opened for additional public feedback. The survey was shared at various ' K A �;. schools, on the City of Van Buren Website, through various emails by PARKS ��© RECREATION the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce, and was made available at the in-person community workshop. The results of the community workshop MASTER PLAN SURVEY and the online survey were presented and discussed during the following Parks and Recreation Commission meetings when community members We would love to hear from you! were able to further engage in the planning process. L!Jj (�:'• •*`e :.Scan the QR code and answer this The online survey proved to be an excellent method for the community quick survey to let us know what to provide data regarding their own perception of the current parks and matters to you and how we can recreation system.Questions were strategic in targeting different areas of serve you better. .� information. Questions about residency and demographics establish who . ... ...... the respondents are and where they live. Other questions were aimed at determining how often parks are visited, which parks have the highest ' utilization, and what draws people to a particular park. Respondents were also asked what programs and amenities they would prefer to utilize in the www.vanburencity.org future and their prioritization of these improvements. 29-474 151 ' 1003 Broadway.Van Buren, , As a digital means, easily accessible to the community at any time, AR72956 the survey had the largest amount of community engagement of the three community outreach strategies. The online survey had more than 1,300 unique responses by the time it was closed, three months afters s� the community workshop. The following series of graphs represent the Flyer with information regarding online survey and QR code to access survey. responses provided through the online survey. 18 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 Community Priorities and Needs RESIDENCY Yes To properly understand the results of the online survey, it is important to 82.$1%] determine who is utilizing the City's park system and facilities.The following 1303 Responses questions were included in the survey aimed at gauging a respondent's relationship to Van Buren: LIVE IN CITY o Do you live within the city limits of Van Buren? LIMITS o How long have you lived in the City of Van Buren? The majority of survey-takers live within Van Buren's City Limits (Figure No 2-1). Of those respondents, more than half have lived in Van Buren for 17.19% more than 20 years (Figure 2-2).These results show those participating in the survey to be established community members with an understanding of what is important in their community. Figure 2-1. Do you live within the city limits of Van Buren? 6-cc10 Years 11.V 11 -20 Years 18.31%� F-1 . 5 Years 13.t16°la 1240 OR • LENGTH OF c• —Less than a RESIDENCY Year 3,15% f!� Over 20 Years 53.87% Figure 2-2. How long have you lived in the City of Van Buren? 19 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 Community Priorities and Needs 30 -39 DEMOGRAPHICS 21 -29 The next series of questions ask about general demographic information: �10,57% o Do you own a dog? 1306 Responses 40-49— —Under 20 o What is your age? 21.36% s 27% o What is your gender? AGE More respondents owned a dog than those who did not (Figure 2-3). —70 or Older Despite the age of respondents appearing to be spread closely, 72% fell 8.73°-"O between the ages of 30 to 69 (Figure 2-4). And, female respondents were , more likely to participate in the survey(Figure 2-5). 50- 59—� �60-69 Figure 2-4.What is your age? Yes 69 3•,% Female M45%] 1301 Responses 1302 Responses OWNS A DOG GENDER —Prefer not to Answer(10) 0.77% �No 3 01,989,E Male 38.79% 20 Figure 2-3. Do you own a dog? Figure 2-5.What is your gender? PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 Community Priorities and Needs None SAFETY �32.53% As a means of determining a users'feeling of safety atthe parks the survey Lighting Issues introduced the question:' 1697 Responses c Have you encountered any maintenance issues or safety concerns with the park equipment? (Pick all that apply) SAFETY CONCERNS Respondents that expressed a concern with park amenities most often Accessibility listed lighting issues, cleanliness issues, and landscape issues (Figure Issues 2-6). It is important to be aware of the community's concerns for park Cleanliness) 7.75° safety as future development of the parks takes place.These issues could Issues ,y , be easily addressed improvements to existing parks. IS {`' Equipment Safety Issues Landscape Issues ::; C% G.=ce.i ., Figure 2-6. Have you encountered any maintenance or safety... Social Media COMMUNICATION Public outreach often improves park utilization as users are more aware of park information and events or programs they have an interest in. The 1209 Responses following question determines how this information would best be spread: PREFERRED o Do you prefer to receive information about park events, programs, MEANS OF and updates via: Social Media, Email,Text Message, or U.S. Mail Email— RECEIVING A mix of communication methods would be most effective to keep Van 24.32;f INFO U.S. Mail y- Buren residents up-to-date on the City's park and recreational programs. 15-47`',`U Social media should be utilizedthe majority of the time as most respondentsx: prefer this method,followed by email, and then text message (Figure 2-7). ' Message U.S. Mail may also still be utilized, though less frequently and most likely Text xt for larger events which have longer prep time and funding. Figure 2-7. Do you prefer to receive information about parks... 21 F PARKS& RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 Community Priorities and Needs PARK UTILIZATION 0 -6Months This series of questions records which parks respondents visit and the 73.to5 ', frequency of their visits: 1300 Responses o Which local parks do you visit the most? (Pick no more than three) LAST VISIT o When was the last time you visited a Van Buren Park? o How often do you visit a Van Buren Park? TO A PARK —Over 2 Years Dr.Louis Peer Memorial Park(City Park)hasthe highest park utilization rate 9.4hr of respondents while Freedom Park, Lee Creek Park, and Field of Dreams being the next closest three (Figure 2-8). The majority of respondents 1 -2 Years have visited a park within the last 6 months (Figure 2-9). Despite this high 4,69 number, most expressed they only visit the City's parks 1 to 4 times per �6- 12 Months year (Figure 2-10). This indicates future development of the parks should 12,00% diversify their amenities and programs to reach more interests. Figure 2-9.When was the last time you visited a Van Buren park? City Park 29.42% F-1 -4rTimes per Year 41,27,c Freedom Park 18.26% F Lee Creek Park 16.91% _-i�. 12,�3`,'��,' 1277 Responses Field of Dreams FREQUENC Mike Meyer Park 5.87% OF VISITS TO Gene Bell Park 5.87% ANY PARK 5 - 12 Times Skate Park 5.07°�� per Year More Than 24 24.04,F; Times per Year Colley Park 3.89"lfl 20. 6% Van Zandt Park 1.78°l0 12-24 Times per Year 00 400 boo 14.33% 22 Figure 2-8.Which local parks do you visit most? Figure 2-10. How often do you visit a Van Buren Park? t PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 Community Priorities and Needs r—Exercise/Sports IE PARK E T I O N 33.33 r° People are more likely to visit a park which offers amenities and programs that align with their interests.The following three questions were asked to 1284 Responses determine the reasons someone would want to visit a park: PRIMARY o Do you or someone in your family participate in the following sports/ Outdoor Time— REASON TO activities? (Pick all that apply) 32.01% VISIT A Socialization o What is the main reason you visit any park? 4,13% o What influences you the most when deciding which park to visit? PARK Relaxation Responses show that families participate in a variety of sports and activities with the most picked option being hiking (Figure 2-11). This information translates to the large amount of respondents expressing exercise/sports Playtime for Children and outdoor time as their primary reason to visit a park(Figure 2-12). Most 21.65 , park-users are influenced by walking paths when deciding which park Figure 2-12.What is the main reason you visit any park? they will visit(Figure 2-13). Hiking • 12.65% Playground Fitness Activities 10.70% Equipment Golf s.75% 15,91° Walking Paths Basketball 8,71°t° �2218"I° Swimming/Diving 8.26% Running .s 7.88% 1276 Responses Pickleball 7.62% Amenities— Bicycling 7,10% 15.13% DECIDING Football '` < 5.44% WHICH PARK —Parking (9) Disc Golf 4.81°I° j° Soccer . 4,75°r° TO VISIT 111— IS Yoga W.,- � E 3.49% Cycling Trails Volleyball 101111JAM 3.40% J 2.741° Tennis 3.10% Safety Proximity Skateboarding ® 2.40% 11.99% to Home RacRacquetball 0.94°I° L— 140 z q Sports Fields Scenery 200 400 600 9.56% 10.89% Figure 2-11. Do you or someone in your family participate in the following? Figure 2-13. What influences you the most when deciding... 23 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 Community Priorities and Needs DESIRED PARK AMENITIES AND FACILITIES Youth Sports Programs --Adult Fitness As an effort to understand what the Van Buren community would want to 19,66%0 rograms be developed in the future,the following questions were introduced: 4.65%'' 3026 Respo'4k Which of the following amenities are you most likely to utilize if DESIRED included in a local park? FUTURE Which types of recreational program would you like to see more of? Senior Wellness— PROGRAMS (Pick all that apply) Programs 18.87% By a large amount, walking, hiking, or biking trails was chosen as theYouth After School amenity most likely to be utilized by respondents. Second on this list is a Programs swimming pool expressing the desire for Van Buren to once again have a 17.98% swimming facility(Figure 2-15). Despite the majority of respondents being Adult Sports Programs ' between 30 and 69 years old (Figure 2-4), the desired future programs 18, 4% remain equally split between all age groups (Figure 2-14). Figure 2-14. Types of recreational programs you would like to ... Walking, Hiking, or Biking Trails 1713-:3 Swimming Pool 11.05 Playgrounds 9.49% Shelters or Picnic Facilities 8.14% Community Center 8.02% Splash Pad or Water Playground f 8.00% Dog Park 6.$2% Golf Courses 6.47% Pickleball Courts HTY Basketball Courts A : 4.87% Disc Golf Courses = j,'em: 'j 3.34% Soccer or Football Fields fl 3.1j2% Sand Volleyball Courts 2.495% Tennis Courts 2.11°f° Skate Park 1.65% Other Entries 1.24% __. . 200 400 600 800 1000 24 Figure 2-1 .Which of the following amenities are you most likely to utilize if included in a local park? (Pick all that apply) PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 Community Priorities and Needs PARKS AND RECREATION FACILITY PRIORITIZATION While gathering information about what the Van Buren community desired Although a majority of respondents said trails were desired and most in their parks is vital,it is also importantto understand what the priorities of likely to be utilized in the previous questions (Figure 2-11 and Figure 2-15), the community are to help determine what projects should be addressed their responses to the question addressing the issue of priority made it first. So, respondents were asked: apparent the community views developing a community center/aquatics facility as the most important improvement for the community to achieve o Over the next 5 to 10 years,what are the most important needs for in the next 5 to 10 years.Trails came in third and improving existing parks parks and recreation facilities?(Pick no more than three) was forth (Figure 2-16). Developing a Community Center with gym, 17 70% fitness equipment, and indoor courts Developing a new swimming pool, diving and aquatics facility 17.49°l° Adding trails in parks or connecting parks 1372% to neighborhoods More/new recreation amenities in existin 12.13% parks (playgrounds,sports courts, etcl Developing outdoor event space for 9s2°h concerts,festivals Developing a public golf course 9.25`r'° Better maintenance of existing parks and recreation facilities Acquiring land for new parks 4.56% Developing outdoor fields for soccer, s 3.55% football, etc. More/new disc golf courses 2.82% 100 200 303 doo 00 600 Figure 2-16. Over the next 5 to 10 years,what are the most important needs for parks and recreation facilities? 25 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12,025 Community Priorities and Needs PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MEETING FEEDBACK To facilitate conversation and get an understanding of the opinions of the Parks and Recreation Commission,a few interactive activitiestook place during Commission meetings. Members of the Commission were asked to prioritize three different types of recreation. Each member was given one blue dot (first choice),one green dot(second choice), and one red dot(third choice). Commission members then used these dots to indicate their recreation type priorities.The Parks and Recreation Commission almost achieved a full consensus vote with Indoor Active Recreation first, Outdoor Active Recreation second, and Outdoor Passive Recreation third (Figure 2-17). j v^ T �5. 3 Indoor Active Outdoor Active Outdoor Passive Recreation Recreation Recreation 26 Figure 2-17. Parks and Recreation Commission Members' prioritization of recreation types. PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 05 Community Priorities and Needs In the next activity,the Van Buren Parks and Recreation Commission members were asked to prioritize which park should receive the greatest investment of money. Members were once again given the three dots,and the results are shown on the park maps below: Dr. Louis Peer Memorial Park first,Legacy Valley Park second,Van Zandt Park third, and Field of Dreams Sports Complex and Freedom Park tied for fourth (Figure 2-18). r- .2-- MR.CHAD&BETTY ANN COLLEY WILDERNESS PARK l; LEGACY VALLEY PARK DR.LOUIS PEER MEMORIAL PARK FIELD of DREAMS SPORTS COMPLEX LEE CREEK PARK MEYER PARK '° v VAN ZANDT PARK MAYOR GENE BELL PARK FREEDOM PARK Figure 2-18. Parks and Recreation Commission Members' prioritization of which parks need the most funding. 27 THE MASTER PLAN MISSION GUIDING PRINCIPLES Provide Safe Environments and Affordable The following list of principles were developed by Programs to Enhance Fun, Fitness, and Education the Van Buren Parks and Recreation Commission for residents of all ages in our community. to guide the future development ofthe City"s parks system: VISION o A destination for recreation Van Buren will be known as city that Celebrates o Parks and facilities that are unique to Van and Preserves Green Space, its Historic Context, Buren d4d, beautiful environments Supporting the Health o Full-time Activities Director acnd Well-being of all ages and physical abilities. a Parks and amenities that enhance the quality of life in Van Buren e o Parks and facilities to serve all ages o Well thought out locationN ., o Golf course should stay green ., � . o A destination multi-use city park � : t PARKS& RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 The Master Plan OVERVIEW PRIORITIES The Master Plan concepts and design recommendations consist of The community survey results listed,"Developing a Community Center with improvements to 9 existing parks and the addition of a new Community gym,fitness equipment,and indoor courts,"along with,"Developing a new Center/Aquatics Facility. swimming pool, diving, and aquatics facility," as the two most important o Mayor Gene Bell Park facility priorities (Figure 2-16). "Adding trails in parks or connecting parks o Mr. Chad and Betty Ann Colley Wilderness Park to neighborhoods," came in as the third highest priority. Hiking was the o Field of Dreams Sports Complex number one reason noted as why community members visit a park(Figure o Lee Creek Park 2-11). "Walking, Hiking, or Biking Trails," was highlighted in the survey I o Legacy Valley Park results as the number one desired park amenities or facilities (Figure i e Mike Meyer Park 2-15). The community identified City Park as the most visited park, and o Freedom Park that in conjunction with the Parks and Recreation prioritization of this park c Van Zandt Park from an investment opportunity makes itthe top priority moving forward.A Dr. Louis Peer Memorial Park(City Park) majority of surveytakers also identified themselves as dog owners,making the incorporation of dog friendly elements and dog parks an important <„ aspect of an active life in Van Buren. r fiY � � y 114 Community Outreach: o Improve information available on Website including: o List park amenities e o List trail lengths and locations o Park access information f o Event bulletin i o How to reserve the park or park spaces for an event o How to reserve kayaks/canoes I o How to reserve bicycles/games o How to reserve disc golf course for a tournament o Include more photographs The Historic Arkansas River Railroad Bridge at Mike Meyer Park. f 29 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 The Master Plan Figure 3-1. Existing Bell Park Site Plan. MAYOR GENE BELL PARK Design Recommendations ODesignated food truck spot © Tap into existing electrical pole to ' ! provide power to food truck © Future Pavilion 0 Bicycle racks for up to 10 bicycles © Shade structures over existing picnic :. tables O Pole lights around existing playground to improve safety and usage ONative and resilient landscaping Concept Summary Mayor Gene Bell Park was recently completed and has many features already, including a playground, picnic tables, and on- site parking.Ways of enhancing comfort and utilization at the park should be a priority. q Additional design Recommendations "v o Engage local community groups to help ' site beautification and landscaping. o Shade, lighting, power, and water are all items that will boost utilization of the =M" park. o Directional signage to the park from Broadway can help with community awareness and use. Existing playground at Mayor Gene Bell Park. Existing picnic tables at Mayor Gene Bell Park. 30 z l a„ < 5 m. X� �yy�tt K n� i bPi ; FL h ro . t� k s; a �N s PARKS& RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 The Master Plan Figure 3-3. Existing Wilderness Park Site Plan. MR, CHAD & PETTYANN COLLEY WILDERNESS PARK Design Recommendations " 0 Trail head and bench seating © Picnic Tables © Trail map and bike repair outpost #, O Tamper proof trash cans N © Bicycle racks for up to 20 bicycles ` Q Playground and family games 0 Pavilion Restrooms i O Dog park 9-Hole disc golf course Concept Summar r Colley Park currently serves the community well with natural bike and pedestrian trails. Opportunities exist to build on the Southwest portion of the site, avoiding the more extreme - grades and water run-off observed on the 4 W remainder of the property. �a Additional Design Recommendations o Supplement the current trails by adding varying amenities to attract more users. o Provide lighting around trail head, parking, and future build-out. CHINA o Directional signage to the park from Existing parking at Colley Wilderness Park. Existing trails at Colley Wilderness Park. primary access roads. 32 r� a • 6 9: �iom' a ! R 34,E r , , JLJj PF yk n tF l � • l � i ai ry 6 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 2025 The Master Plan Figure 3-5. Existing Field of Dreams Site Plan. FIELD OF DREAMS SPORTS COMPLEX Design Recommendations: ORe-stripe existing parking lot © Kayak/canoe rental © Trail head and sign ° QPlayground © Pave and stripe existing parking area Q (3) Pickleball courts Multi-use path along waterfront QShade structures over new picnic tables and family games OVisual screen blocks maintenance area Concept Summary The Field of Dreams is a highly utilized sports complex for baseball and softball. The addition of programming that supports all ages and abilities on site should be accommodated. This park boasts scenic views of Lee Creek that can be capitalized on, 4 � including enhancing programs that support leisure and active waterfront activity. Additional Resign Recommendations c> Additional shade and family activities. 3 Utilization and build-out of the Southeast X£. and North portions of the property. Any landscaping added should be low Existing conditions at Field of Dreams Sports Complex. Existing conditions at Field of Dreams Sports Complex. maintenance,flood tolerant vegetation. 34 w Lot- "'e 1000, Ah ax N)" 3 $ MM low m �s mom MMMMMwMMMMMMMMM� mom <a 6 51 7 >>:j, e -r: Field of Dreams Concept Site Plan. PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 The Master Plan Figure 3-7. Existing Lee Creek Park Site Plan. LEE CREEK PARK :• Design Recommendations: 0 Lighting at boat ramp © Fish cleaning and education pavilion © 18-Hole disc golf course Q Extend path to the existing parking lot © Fishing pier along river with picnic tables and BBQ pits (flood resistant) OTrail connecting to Mike Meyer Park Concept Summary Improvements to Lee Creek Park should capitalize on the views and adjacency to the Arkansas River along its South property line. A paved road, parking, and boat ramp already existing on site and provides access throughout. This property is highly prone to flooding, so any improvements should be flood tolerant and low maintenance in nature. �, x O Additional Design Recommendations a Reinstate the site as a camping and � r v fishing area or re-purpose the existing 9 trails and develop the site as a disc golf course. o Pursue grants to help cover cost of a developing path along river and road. r a Access and park information should be made easily available and obvious at Meyer Park before users go through. Existing camp area at Lee Creek Park. Existing boat ramp and pier at Lee Creek Park. 36 771 C;-7) Al tin .. N . CD CD co O n CD40 CD f a rn ' ter. PARKS& RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 The Master Plan Figure 3-9. Existing Legacy Valley Park Site Plan. LEGACY VALLEY PARK Design Recommendations: 0 Walking/biking trails © Dry creek © Parking and access to park Concept Summary Legacy Valley Park sits on the hillside between two major housing communities in Fes- East Van Buren. Its extreme grade changes coupled with overhead power lines and site drainage issues limit its opportunities for programming. Improvements to the park that support the immediate surrounding neighborhoods should be prioritized. Walking or mountain bike trails are the best - and most economical use for the site. Landscaping enhancements to beautify the park could include added creek bed rocks/ boulders, and native trees/plants along the trails. Landscape improvements should help provide shade for the trails and enhance the ry b & natural look of the park. § ' The Southwest and Northeast corners could serve as primary access points to the park. Any additional programming, such as a dog its park or trail head, is best served on the Northeast corner adjacent to Van Buren Fire Satellite image of Legacy Valley Park. Northridge Drive street-view of Legacy Valley Park. Station No.4. 38 ! i a f, � s 'r 1 z f r. 19�1 it � i Y' u PARKS& RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 The Master Plan Figure 3-11. Existing Mike Meyer Park Site Plan. MIKE MEYER PARK Design Recommendations: 0 Trail connecting to Lee Creek Park © Walking paths along riverfront © Wall screen to block view of plant ` O Extend road to be primary access z v © Re-stripe existing parking lot -up marina and river inlet O Clean .: 0 Fish cleaning and education pavilion rye_ k 0 Improve existing restrooms a O Bicycle and lawn game rentals Improve road entry and provide signage Signage indicating entrance to Lee Creek Park and Mike Meyer Park Concept Summary Improvements to Meyer Park should capitalize on the views and adjacency to the m� Arkansas River.This property is highly prone ^, A to flooding, so any improvements should be flood tolerant and low maintenance in nature. Provide screening at the Historic Mural Wall y to improve visual appearance and comfort. Parking clearly marked and hours of use allowed by the adjacent factory should be limited/negotiated. Extend Riverfront Drive to create a clear access through park to Lee Existing historic wall mural at Mike Meyer Park. Existing bridge at Mike Meyer Park. Creek Park without going through factory. 40 r ..3 * Oe4eN \R� s� t•y �S`. dd d i , ai 6�"T �e, ARKS & RECREATION .ASTER PLAN ) 2025 The Master Plan Figure 3-13. Existing Freedom Park Site Plan. FREEDOM PARK 4 fi Concept Summary The primary focus for Freedom Park should be to build upon the recently completed and highly utilized park facilities. Limited parking presents some restrictions, however, the use of the adjacent property owners' parking lot may be able to be negotiated to resolve this issue. Ease of use and access to infrastructure for events, food trucks, and visitors should be evaluated in the future as programs continue to develop. Walk-ability and bike-ability to the park from all directions is important including safety at �y , 4 intersections crossing to go downtown and ' the railroad tracks to the North. i .v i - z Dedication ceremony held at Freedom Park. Veteran's Memorial Plaza at Freedom Park. Splash pad at Freedom Park. 42 PARKS__ RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 The Master Plan Figure 3-14.Van Zandt Park Concept Site Plan. mm VAN Z NDT PARK Design Recommendations: " O Retaining wall y © Pavilion w © Tiered spectator seating O Pole lighting at existing courts yz Concept Summary Van Zandt Park serves the residential community in close proximity to the park. The green space on the West portion of the site serves as an open play and recreation area for families and should remain as such. If site improvements are pursued such as paving or the construction of the pavilion, care should be given to west to east drainage on the site and the grading required to completed such improvements. Additional Design Recommendations N o Hopscotch or 4-square lines on court for shared use. o Divert water around courts. n Pave and stripe existing parking lot. C-� Parking lot and courts at Van Zandt Park. Open space at Van Zandt Park. 43 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 The Master Plan Figure 3-15. Existing City Park Site Plan. -� DR. LOUIS PEER MEMORIAL r i PARK (CITY PARK) Concept Summary City Park is the most utilized park in the Van Buren parks system and investments into the park should echo the needs of the community to provide activities for all ages and abilities. Efforts to provide a variety of options at the PARK park should be pursued. Some key items that RESTROOMS _ _; were discussed with the community during J11 . the design process include: v � F y � 'y Additional Design Recommendations • I�ti}� y �_ o Retain a golfing component such as a community driving and practice range L t along North 11st Street.This should `'. include a chipping and putting area. o Develop and utilize the full extent of the site by providingample trails. o Create a parks office, equipment rental, and pro shop area by re-purposing the previously used Cedars Club House. ME Locate soccer fields adjacent to existing " parking and street access. Handicap accessible paths should be developed to and from the fields. o A dog park on the South side of the site was approved by the Parks Commission during a planning meeting, and will be developed and built by the Rotary Club. o The park in large part should remain a =. natural looking and open green space for Lake Cap Bedell at City Park. Playground at City Park. community use. 44 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN ) 2025 The Master Plan PAT ate`' DR.LOUIS PEER MEMORIAL PARK L NORTHVIEW DR — (CITY PARK) x MASTER PLAN LEGEND 1 LAKE CAP BEDELL 640 — --I - � 610 1 640 2 RESTROOMS 3 PLAYGROUNDS 580 4 PICNIC PAVILIONS m y N 5 PARKING LOTS `. 6 EXISTING TRAILS 610 7 EXISTING SKATE PARK 100 ! - 8 EXISTING PICKLEBALL/BASKETBALL COURT 9 EXISTING BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB 10 PARK OFFICE/PRO SHOP 11 EXISTING DISK GOLF COURSE -' 12 IXISTING BASEBALL FEILD 13 TURF FIELD 560 14 YOUTH TURF FIELDS 15 GOLF PRACTICE RANGE �o - 16 BLEACHERS ® --�� 17 PAVED WALKING TRAILS 18 DIRT MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS ID S60 19 OUTLOOK VIEWS/SEATING 20 SPLASH PAD 21 SIDEWALK ALONG N I1TH ST O o � 22 AMPHITHEATRE �(ye +� 23 ROTARY CLUB DOG PARK L �~ v✓ A90 24 PUMP TRACK 1, NEW EXISTING BUILDING "T Figure 3-16. City Park Concept Site Plan. 45 PARKS& RECREATION MASTER PLAN )2025 The Master Plan COMMUNITY CENTER 160 The Van Buren community appears to have outlined,through discussions I ' lo'-a• - T at in-person meetings/workshops and responses to the online survey, a community center as their primary priority and an aquatic facility as an almost equal priority. Programs of both facilities could be implemented in _ �•_o•• 44'•0" one building to broaden the scope of activities and increase community ti 4 - --- utilization. The amenities of the community center should include a gym, T20O" ; 20 0 20 20 Zoo' indoor pickleball courts, and a swimming/diving aquatics facility.A series f of diagrams were developed to provide the basis for the each amenity's II ".x. " required space and programs. Figure 3-17. 5 Pickleball Court Layout Diagram. W-0" --- -- � -SPECTATOR SEATING - - 20'-0" 18.-Oa --- - -- - RUN-OFF AREA zI'o" I -13'-0"DEPTH i k •-0"' 10'-0,•.. FOR DIVING 4'WALKWAY FOR OFFICIALS I I 1 I I 2 1 METER -' 70'-0" I-- -.DIVING BOA D__ �g 1 METER] DIVING BOARD E " 7811 4 8'-0" 64'-0" STARTING �_.-. _ -- 94'-0" END 5 P� w. E I I g _0" 36'_0„ 8 E ` 4'WALKWAY FOR OFFICIALS - -, L'r x SWIMMING STAGING 10-_011 20 20 _ :T, 46 Figure 3-18. Indoor Aquatic Program Diagram. Figure 3-19. Pickleball Court Diagram. Figure 3-20.Tennis Court Diagram. PARKS& RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 The Master Plan 110'-0" W-W I � aa � , o - CATERING 0 a 0 O 0 O KITCHEN 30'-0„ 801-0. 0 ° ° Q c4° 0 ° 0 c O 0 TABLE&CNAIR 5 " STORAGE 0'-0 o ° 00 0 00 '-72"DIA,TABLES COMMUNITY ROOM 8 CHAIRS EACH Figure 3-21. Community Room Program Diagram. 801-01, I I 30'-0" I $0'-0' a �' 1001-01, F i I 30`-0" I s` Nw Figure 3-22. Basketball Court Program Diagram. Figure 3-23.Volleyball Court Program Diagram. 47 PARKS & RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 The Master Plan COMMUNITY CENTER CONCEPTUAL COST ESTIMATE The development of conceptual plans for the community center has been BUILDING CONSTRUCTION pushed forward through engagement with the Van Buren community, the Parks and Recreation Commission, and City staff. A list of programs Courts, Community Room, Lockers $24,702,000 requested for the community center includes: 61,755 SF @$400/SF o Indoor swimming pool with spectator seating and diving boards Natatorium $9,501,000 o Splash pad area for children 19,002 SF @$500/SF ,) Basketball courts and volleyball courts o Indoor running track Estimated Construction Cost $34,203,000 o Classroom Total Building Square Footage 80,757 SF o Locker rooms, showers, and restrooms Cost Per Square Foot $424/SF o Indoor pickleball courts o Community room for 450 people ARCHITECTURAL& ENGINEERING FEES $2,394,210 o Childrens' room t, Concessions FURNITURE, FIXTURES & EQUIPMENT TBD c Covered drop-off Note: These numbers are conceptual and do not reflect final cost of This list has evolved throughout the duration of the Van Buren Parks and project. Recreation Commission meetings,and will most likely continue to evolve as the project develops and unknowns become answered.While the location of the community center remains unknown, it is recommended that the facility be builtin close proximityto majorthoroughfaresto enhance access and be highly visible as a landmark for the City. It is the community's desire for the community center to promote multi-generational use, improve sports tourism in Van Buren,and provide flexibility of spaces and programs. Multi-generational use can be achieved by providing a diverse selections of amenities to cater to all ages and support community wellness and the wellbeing of all users. With the focus on regional youth sport events,the hope is a community center will benefittourism in the City as sports events benefit dining and lodging businesses.The community center should allow for the adaptation of spaces for multiple uses to increase the number of users and improve potential revenue. 48 PARKS& RECREATION MASTER PLAN 12025 The Master Plan MECHANICAL ROOM 1—,SF VESTIBULE VESTIBULE BDSF ELECTRICAL ROOM u cn� nrv¢ I"l 1E "I CHEMICAL POOL EOUIPMENi ROOM f f POOL STORAGE f I / HENS IOCRER ROOM ROOM,TOItFT,& SPLASH PAD SHOWER >It565F .i.,o._. POOL JANITOR t ( :nt6sE OFFICE ROOM / 180J SF IP�J9 SF L BASKET,BAtLLVO[CEr-� L '.I ` `I PICKI JI -- '- BALL COURTS& TRACK �. t a QF . woMEwuocKER 1 t _I $OQM TOILET&r f NB+- Poo SHOWER L ` Roo ROOM FAM SHW.. 1 T I f l CHANGINBOOM L._...__:f FAM.SH W. CHANGING F n. I _ ROOM t I I;SG BLEACHERS HENS WOMENS RESTROOM RES1100 — i .MJ.a35f rot F 1 1 VESTIBULE CONCESSION IANDOR ELEC. 109.4P SF F co,n.,. .9 LOU12NvGi rE AREA ftV.N.LE. CHILDREN' fi TERNG INDOOR PLAY KITCHEN AREA MEETINO ROOM B 954.835t _—---- — 1152.135E 216162 SF 4�BBT Bb sE MEETING ROOM C CHILDREN OUTDOOR � CHECKOUT ——————— T a323155F PUY AREA SERYER CONTROL DESK -R—A--L_--� ` tiN I�a35F 3�SS1 Sf —DEP CHA IR&TABLE STORAGE ROOM OfFICE OFFICE MEETING ROOM 13ya.ag SE 2P2lI SF I¢8_,SE 2161 622E VESTIBULE • TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE:80,757 SQFT. -ov L---- J Figure 3-22. Community Center Concept Floor Plan. 49