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1999 Parks And Recreation Functional Plan - superceded by 2014 plan
City of Port Townsend Parks, Recreation Open Space Functional Plan Adopted, January, 1999 This plan has been prepared by PAULA MACKROW. The survey ivas directed by COLIN FODEN. a Julie McCulloch, MAYOR CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION 1996-1999 1996-1999 Mark Welch, Chair Jim Farmer, Chair Lyn Hersey Ted Shoulberg Steve Hayden John Baker Ian Keith Mike Marston Barbara Nightingale Kate Jenks Tim Caldwell Andrew Gale Joe Finnic Debbie Barreth Forest Rambo Peter Badame PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Diane Pern-- Thompson Bob Wheeler, Director Bill Davidson Charlie Simpson, Operation & Maintenance Manager Jean Cain field Bill Kush, Recreation Director Dan Harpole Frank Casella, Pool Director Steve Coma, Parks Crew Chief This plan has been prepared by PAULA MACKROW. The survey ivas directed by COLIN FODEN. a CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS I. INTRODUCTION ......................................................................... ............................... I -1 TheFunctional Plan ......................................................................... ............................I -5 Description of the Planning Area ................................................ ............................... I -8 Relation to Other Plans .................................................................. ...........................I -11 1996 Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan .............................. ...........................I -11 Overall Goals and Policies .............................................. ...........................I -12 1991 City of Port Townsend Parks and Recreation Plan ......... ...........................I -18 Action Plan Progress ............................... III -4 Unfinished Agenda ............................... III -6 OtherPlans ........................................................................... ............................... I -21 Urban Waterfront Plan ............................... III -14 Gateway Development Plan Shoreline Management Master Program Comprehensive Public Access Plan ............................... IV -3 Port Townsend 2020: Getting Together (P. T. 2020) ............................... IV -4 Non - Motorized Transportation Plan Progress ............................... IV -11 Relation to City Management Structure ....................................... ...........................I -24 IL PARKS Statement of Purpose for Parks ..................................................... ............................II -3 Introduction........................................................................... ............................... H -4 History and Existing Resources ............................................... ............................II -5 Operations and Maintenance ................................................... ...........................II -22 Financing............................................................................. ............................... II -29 III. RECREATION & POOL Statement of Purpose for Recreation ....................................... ............................... III -3 Introduction......................................................................... ............................... III -4 History and Existing Programs ........................................... ............................... III -6 Operations and Maintenance ............................................. ............................... III -12 Financing........................................................................... ............................... III -14 IV. OPEN SPACE Statement of Purpose for Open Space ..................................... ............................... IV -3 Introduction......................................................................... ............................... IV -4 History and Existing Resources ........................................ ............................... IV -11 Operation and Maintenance .............................................. ............................... IV -18 Table of contents January, 1999 c CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Financing.............................................................................. ..........................IV -18 V. DESCRIPTION OF PROCESS ProcessSummary .......................................................................... ............................... V -3 SurveySummary ........................................................................... ............................... V -5 CommunityInput ........................................................................ ............................... V -25 Published Articles Park & Recreation Commission, Parks, Recreation & Property Committee Oversight Committee VI. RECOMMENDATIONS / ACTION PLAN Introduction............................................................................... ............................... VI -3 Planning for Future Parks ........................................................ ............................... VI -4 Operations & Maintenance Recommendations ................. ............................... VI -25 Capital Facilities Recommendations ................................. ............................... VI -26 Recreation................................................................................. ............................... VI -29 Priority Program Recommendations ................................. ............................... VI -31 Operations & Maintenance Recommendations ................. ............................... VI -32 Recreation Capital Facilities ............................................. ............................... VI -33 OpenSpace ............................................................................... ............................... VI -33 Operations & Maintenance Recommendations ................. ............................... VI -35 Other Property Recommendations ......................................... ............................... VI -36 Street Tree Program Golf Course Financing Options for Parks, Recreation and Open Space . ............................... VI -38 Capital Facilities Expense Projections .............................. ............................... VI -38 Capital Facilities Financing Options ................................ ............................... VI -43 Recommendations for Financing Capital Projects ............ ............................... VI -44 Definitions.......................................................................................... ..............................1 Table of contents January, 1999 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLES Participation Rates for Various Programs ............ ............................... III -9 Table H -1 Parks Facility Inventory ........................................... ...........................H -17 Table H -2 Other Parks Facilities ............................................... ...........................H -18 Table H -3 City of Port Townsend Parks by Park Type ......... ............................... H -22 Table H -4 Parks Department Expenditures ............................... ...........................H -25 Table H -5 Maintenance Activities Schedule ............................. ...........................H -26 Table H -6 Current Operations and Maintenance Needs ....... ............................... H -29 Table H -7 1997 REET Transfer to Park Fund ..................................................... II -31 Table H -8 Park & Recreation Revenue 1997 ............................ ...........................H -32 Table H -9 Current Expense Budget 1997 ............................. ............................... H -34 Table III -1 Participation Rates for Various Programs ............ ............................... III -9 Table III -2 Public Recreation Facilities Summary ............... ............................... III -11 Table III -3 Recreation & Pool Budgets 1995, 1996, 1997 ... ............................... III -15 Table III -4 Recreation & Pool Budget Revenues 1995, 1996, 1997 ................... III -16 Table III -5 User Fee Schedule - 1997 .................................. ............................... III -17 Table III -6 Recreation Budget and Staff Growth ................. ............................... III -18 Table III -7 Recreation Participation vs. Annual Budget ...... ............................... III -18 Table V -1 Percent return by area in the City .......................... ............................... V -4 Table V -2 Population by Area .............................................. ............................... V -12 Table V -3 Population Statistics ............................................ ............................... V -13 Table V -4 Population by Age ............................................... ............................... V -13 Table V -5 Population by Age - Graph ................................. ............................... V -14 Table V -6 Q5 Frequency of Park Use Statistics ................... ............................... V -15 Table V -7 Frequency of Park & Open Space Use by Area .. ............................... V -16 Table V -8 Q6 Respondents' Park Values ............................ ............................... V -17 Table V -9 Q7 Importance of Open Space Uses ................... ............................... V -17 Table V -10 Q9 Walking/Bicycling Improvement Preferences ............................. V -18 Table V -11 Q11 Important Activities Preferences ................. ............................... V -19 Table V -12 Q13 Recreational Services Preferences .............. ............................... V -19 Table V -13 Q15 Top Priorities for Development .................. ............................... V -20 Table V -14 Q18 City Comp Plan Goals ................................. ............................... V -20 Table V -15 Q20 Willingness to Volunteer ............................ ............................... V -21 Table V -16 Q19 Recreation Mission Statement .................... ............................... V -21 Table V -17 Q28 Special Needs Served .................................. ............................... V -21 Table V -18 Q21/Q22 Financial Contribution / Financing ..... ............................... V -22 Table V -19 Q29/Q30 Income Versus Employment Status .... ............................... V -23 Table V -20 Q23/Q16 Household Financing .......................... ............................... V -24 Table VI -1 Level of Service Needs by Total Park Acreage Through 2016........... VI -8 Table VI -2 Potential Population in Existing Neighborhood Park Service Areas VI -11 Table VI -3 Relation of Commercial/ Manufacturing Zones to Pocket Parks ..... VI -13 Table VI -4 Public Recreation Facilities Std. Guidance Recommendations ........ VI -30 Table VI -5 Capital Facilities Plan Current Capacity Projects ............................. VI -40 Table VI -6 Capital Facilities Plan Proposed Capacity Projects .......................... VI -41 Table VI -7 Capital Facilities Funding Program ................... ............................... VI -42 Table of contents January, 1999 e CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN FIGURES FigureI -1 Vicinity Map ................................................................... ............................I -3 Figure I -2 Public Works Administration Flow Chart ................. ............................... I -24 Figure H -1Park Inventory ................................................................. ...........................H -20 Figure IV -1 Open Space Values & Functions ............................. ............................... IV -7 Figure IV -2 Open Space Inventory Map ..................................... ............................... IV -9 Figure V -1 Survey Response Area Map ..................................... ............................... V -4 Figure VI -1 Neighborhood Park Service Areas ........................ ............................... VI -17 Figure VI -2 Public Pocket Parks - Existing and Potential ........ ............................... VI -19 Figure VI -3 Proposed Capital Facilities Plan ............................ ............................... VI -21 Figure VI -4 Walkway System Plan ........................................... ............................... VI -22 Table of contents January, 1999 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN APPENDICES A. Survey results (data) School District Sports preference survey B. Census Data C. Parks Policies and procedures Related Ordinances Acquisition Documentation: Leases, grants, donations, conditions, Master Plans Golf Course Use D. Recreation Policies and Procedures Related Ordinances Cooperative Agreements, Partnership Agreements E. Open Space and Trails Policies and Procedures Related Ordinances Cooperative Agreements, Partnership Agreements Northern Corridor Project - Jefferson Land Trust F. CIP G. 1997 Budget H. SEPA Documentation Checklist, Non - project Checklist Threshold Determination Response to Comments Table of contents January, 1999 h CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY THE VISION Parks, open space and recreational opportunities are fundamental to the quality of life for people, communities and society as a whole. Few things measure and define the quality of life of a community as directly as access for all ages of citizens to a variety of leisure opportunities and natural spaces. Parks, playgrounds, nature trails, open space, and community centers make a community an attractive and desirable place to live, work, play and visit. Port Townsend s park system is integral to the City s magnetic beauty. In Port Townsend, city and county residents enjoy parks as part of their daily schedules. Visitors from all over the world, while adding to the local economy, take advantage of renowned waterfront parks and beach access. Whether used actively or passively, the park system of the City of Port Townsend enriches the life of the community. City Recreation programs encourage life -long development of skills and interests. These programs compliment the unique opportunities of the local setting and reflect the recreational preferences of a diverse community. These programs are geared toward all age groups. Identification of potential open space provides a framework for urban development on the landscape. Open spaces in Port Townsend augment the park system, encourage passive recreational experiences and protect a variety of wildlife habitat. THE PLAN The City of Port Townsend Parks & Recreation Functional Plan documents our park, recreation, and open space needs. Through this comprehensive report of history and existing conditions, the plan creates a snapshot of the community of today and a blueprint for the community of tomorrow. With this vision in mind, the plan provides focus and direction for future development of programs, facilities and funding sources. The Plan contains the details necessary for implementation of the Comprehensive Plan goals and policies. With input from the community as a whole, the Functional Plan recommends general and specific actions to realize the community vision. This plan has been prepared in cooperation with the Public Works Department, the Parks and Recreation Commission, and Port Townsend School District. The overall context of the 1999 Functional Plan is directed by the Comprehensive Plan adopted in July 1996. The Comprehensive Plan developed overall goals and policies for Parks, Recreation, and Open Space and Trails. These goals and policies reflect numerous community values including: X education, X stewardship, X law enforcement, X community building, Executive Summary 1 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN X sense of place and X economic benefits. The community defines the direction taken to meet the park, recreation and open space challenges of the future. Over the past fifteen years, the Parks Plan has reflected common desires and priorities even though the makeup of the community has seen a subtle change in the age and income of the average resident. A City -wide citizen survey taken in the fall of 1996 identified the following priorities for parks and recreational needs: X Activities for youth X Trails for walking and exercise X Wildlife corridors X Bike lanes and trails X Developed beach access X Further development of neighborhood parks X Further development of Mountain View Swimming Pool While the City will continue to develop parks and recreation programs, there is much yet to be done to meet current and anticipated demands. It is the City's strategy to work cooperatively and develop partnerships with others for facility use and program development. Public input, solicited in several ways, is encouraged in developing and implementing this plan. PAST PLANNING AND IMPLEMENATION The City completed its last Parks Functional Plan in 1991. Since that time, much progress has been made, including: X Completion of City Dock replacement, Pope Marine Building rehabilitation, and Union Wharf reconstruction, funded substantially by grants, X Preservation of several open space areas, such as Winona Wetland and the Levinski property, X Construction of several trails for new developments and paths along San Juan Avenue, X Beginning development of recreational facilities and fields at 35th Street Park X Design and construction of several stormwater treatment/detention facilities that will enhance passive recreation, provide urban open space and restore wildlife habitat. X Construction of recreational facilities for youth, such as the Skateboard Facility and X Creation of the City of Port Townsend's Recreation and Pool Programs. PARKS The 1996 Parks and Recreation survey affirmed several impressions citizens have of their community parks. The public is generally satisfied with current park facilities and their operation. Cleanliness is the number one priority. Appearance and landscaping are important to the residents of Port Townsend. The City knows how to do this well and efficiently. Though landscaping is low on the priority list of new amenities, people love the flower displays that are offered. Executive Summary 2 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN LOCAL PRIORITIES People want nice places to walk around in. Neighborhood parks are important to the residents. Views and location are important when considering new property acquisitions. Natural areas and wildlife habitat are high priorities as are sport courts and play fields in neighborhood parks. Recently constructed facility improvements at the school grounds will meet the needs of many, but not all, user groups. VOLUNTEERISM The community willingness to volunteer time and effort to enhance local parks is evident throughout the City. The picnic shelter and years of tree planting in Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park, the Tidal Clock beach planting, volunteer clean ups in Sather Park, the flower display in the Master Gardener's Dahlia Demonstration Garden are examples of how citizen volunteers augment the increasing workload of the park department staff. This volunteer spirit is also bringing about wildlife enhancement in neighborhood stormwater facilities in several parts of town. Neighborhood groups are encouraged to seek City assistance to acquire or develop property for neighborhood parks and are encouraged to help identify and develop of new park facilities. RELATION TO VISITOR USE This spirit of community and sense of place makes City parks inviting to visitors as well as residents. City park facilities must satisfy the growing needs of both visitor /tourist and the local community. As population increases, the city will experience crowding in our parks; development and infill will threaten historically open spaces. Our parks and open spaces are the assets used to promote visitor and tourism development. Indicators of tourist visits such as Fort Worden State Park registrations, Port Townsend Visitor Information Center registrants, and City hotel /motel tax revenues have steadily increased over the last five years. The rapid influx of new residents and the increase of tourism push us to preserve the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that drew us here. DEMAND Demand for park services will likely increase. City park facilities must satisfy the growing needs of both visitor and the local community. These demands are likely to center along the Waterwalk, along the Gateway Corridor and in relation to the Golf Course and Fort Worden State Park and Conference Center indicating a new demand for cross town access for pedestrians and other non - motorized travel. The City experiences critical increases in demand for adequate tourist facilities such as restrooms, transient parking, interpretive services, and shoreline access. Repair and replacement is needed as these facilities age. This aging affects the ambience of the City parks and the neighborhoods that surround them. The increase in use in the existing neighborhood parks is likely to diminish opportunities for quiet solitude as well as the level of service the department can provide for maintenance. Executive Summary 3 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN PARK TYPES Three types of developed park facilities currently exist in the City of Port Townsend, pocket parks or urban open space, neighborhood parks and community parks. The definitions are based broadly on the type of amenity, size and function in the landscape that is provided and have been tailored to meet the needs of this community. These park types and their availability geographically around the City are the focus of park development recommendations. The definitions are applied to currently existing facilities in the City of Port Townsend in order to provide detailed analysis of the existing local level of service for city parks. Pocket parks or urban open spaces provide visual and physical respite from the indoor urban environment. Pocket parks are defined as facilities that provide an open area where people can rest, watch and eat in pleasant surroundings with a few simple amenities. These areas offer some landscaping or vegetated natural areas, trash cans, benches with access to beaches, views or vistas where possible. The plan differentiates between residential and commercial pocket park needs. Neighborhood parks are defined as having over 1 acre of land, restrooms, picnic shelter, children, s play area, parking, and a sport court or play field. This is considerably smaller than the size range used in other cities in the region and the NRPA recommends five acres or more per park. This smaller local definition reflects an adequate standard for Port Townsend Using the amenity definition and the radius map of existing facilities, the areas that are not within one half mile of a neighborhood type park are identified as being below the existing service expectation for the community Community parks are defined as having a city -wide service area with focus on natural features such as Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park or sports facilities of fifteen acres or more. Port Townsend has no community type parks that provide large areas of multiple playfields, picnic areas, playgrounds and other recreational opportunities in a single facility. These needs are currently met through small, dispersed park and school facilities. The 1996 Survey did not indicate need for additional purchases of land needed to provide playing fields. However, participation in some activities among the youth and adults of the City such as soccer and co -ed softball indicate such facility development will be needed in the near future. PRIORITY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PARKS: The Plan includes a recommended Capital Facilities Plan that addresses this variety of current and future demands. In order to meet as many of these needs as possible, the City should maintain flexibility in the capital facilities plan in consideration of a variety of new funding opportunities. PRIORITIES FOR PARK ACQUSITION • Secure the integrity of existing parks with adjacent parcel acquisition for Kah Tai and Bobby McGarraugh Parks. Executive Summary 4 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Purchase new park land in order to anticipate and meet deficiencies in neighborhood park service. Acquire park and open space land through 1. Direct acquisition 2. Joint funding with stormwater or other utilities and 3. Where legally permissible, require dedication of park land or fees in lieu of dedication to mitigate direct impacts of development PRIORITIES FOR PARK DEVELOPMENT The following priorities should guide future development of Port Townsend's parks, recreation and open space: • The City should take a phased approach to implementation based on the projected growth and specific types of funding available over the next five to ten years. • Develop recreational facilities in partnership with other entities. • Develop additional neighborhood parks in a phased manner as growth increases demands in areas not currently served by park facility. • Develop properties and areas identified in the CFP. URBAN OPEN SPACE IN NEW DEVELOPMENT Areas along Sims way and the new neighborhood commercial and multi - family zones should be required to provide the urban open space amenities consistent with pocket park definitions. The City should adopt ordinance language that provides a standard that reflects this need for urban open space in new development. RECREATION The focus of this plan regarding recreation is to develop proactive strategies to provide adequate recreation programs and facilities in Port Townsend to meet the needs of current residents and future growth. The City currently develops programs in cooperation with the Port Townsend School District, Jefferson General Hospital and other community organizations and agencies to serve a broad range of recreational needs. The key strategy is to continue to develop partnerships with other recreation resource providers, community groups and agencies. These opportunities will enhance existing programs and help in developing new programs through shared facility and management agreements. PRIORITY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR RECREATION: Future focus of the City Recreation Department is toward strategic leadership in community recreation through the Public Works Department. The City should create facility development strategies by X documenting current sports league participation, • looking at long term needs, • participating in ongoing needs assessments with other organizations Executive Summary 5 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN X defining facility and program needs with future growth in mind The City should take the lead in coordinating activities by X increasing youth activity opportunities in alternative, diverse areas X developing additional recreation and swimming programs • developing longer term vision and strategies • being supportive in developing new field areas • acquiring land for future needs The City should explore partnerships with private groups that encourage cost sharing among sponsoring parties by • reviewing opportunities to develop facilities in cooperation with other agencies • continuing to develop partnerships for facility development and use X encouraging users commitment to provide facility development funding. FACILITY STANDARD GUIDANCE Rather than recommending adoption of the level of service standards for facilities at this time, further capacity analysis should be developed to be used as the basis of future capital facility expansion analysis and to assess the impacts of development on the existing facilities consistent with Chapter 82.02 RCW. Review of IAC and NRPA guidance show both organizations strongly recommend that the individual jurisdiction determine appropriate level for the specific community they serve. However these guidelines are consistent with national and regional standards. Indoor Swimming Pool Multiple Use Fields Gymnasiums Boat Launches Tennis Courts Existing facilities 1/ 12,000 Residents 1/ 2,800 Residents 1/ 2,800 Residents 1/ 2,000 Residents 1/1,200 Residents Recommended Standards 1/15,000 1/2,800 1/2,800 1/2,000 1/1,400 FUNDING The City should continue its current ratio of funding and explore new funding sources for recreation. The percentage of general fund support is currently about 48% of the total recreation and pool budgets. As the program continues to expand these programs should continue to receive about 50% program budget support in order to meet new demands. In the long term, the current funding of 50% per capita through user fees is expected to reflect the costs of inflation. OPEN SPACE Executive Summary 6 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN DEFINITION The 1996 survey indicated that protection of open space for walking, passive recreation and habitat is a high priority for the residents Port Townsend. Open Space includes places that are both accessible to the public, and some that is dedicated through conservation easements but not open or accessible to the public. Open space includes parks, cemeteries, sports fields, farms, forests, street ends, and all the undeveloped acreage around town including platted land Agricultural land is also a valuable component of the small town atmosphere in Port Townsend. Without careful planning and protection, this atmosphere will be lost as growth occurs. Undeveloped land presents an opportunity to integrate different values of open space in future community design. Open space is the park that the town is nestled into, a planning concept of the National Recreation and Parks Association. In several areas, the turn of the century planning did not take into account the effects of human population density on stormwater runoff, water quality and wildlife. The effects of 19th century land speculation still linger in the property plat maps used today with much of the land already divided into 50 by 100 feet lots. The build -out scenario could cause significant environmental impacts, exacerbate current flooding problems as well as diminish the small town character of Port Townsend. FUNCTIONS AND VALUES As Environmentally Sensitive Areas are identified during stormwater basin analysis and development review, they should be evaluated and protected for other open space functions such as passive recreation opportunities, buffers, habitat and cultural resources. Through on going evaluation, species and areas of local importance can be designated for additional protection. The City also should continue to seek opportunities to protect certain open space values and functions on private parcels through development review and partnerships with private landowners. When prioritizing functions for land use planning, the City should continue to assess compatibility of functions in order to avoid conflicts of use. Through the direction of the goals and policies of the 1996 Comprehensive Plan, the City intends to develop site specific management plans of City owned properties and continue to acquire additional parcels for protection. Port Townsend is rich with unique landscapes and natural features in public ownership. Several areas of frequent flooding and wetlands in the western part of the city have been purchased for stormwater and flood control. These heavily forested areas are likely to become part of the open space / trails system serving multiple functions and values in the community. URBAN OPEN SPACE Open space has an urban component largely identified with our pocket parks. In Port Townsend, this component is also recognized through the adoption and implementation of the Urban Waterfront Plan and through development of the Stormwater Master Plan. In the downtown Executive Summary 7 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Historic District, open space has been preserved through a series of pocket parks and a private conservation easement. The Port Townsend Industrial Park and the Port of Port Townsend have dedicated important public open space in these busy areas. It is important to recognize that open space functions and values cross political boundaries such as property lines, city limits and zoning designations. The goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan form the basis of an aggressive approach to protecting open space in the City. PRIORITY RECOMMENDATIONS: PRIORITIES FOR ACQUISITION The City should consider acquiring and or otherwise protecting open space in areas identified on the CFP and lands identified as Potential Open Space in the Land Use Map. The Potential Open Space overlay appears in areas that are valuable maintained as open space, such as wooded areas, drainage corridors, and scenic vistas. An array of functions and values discussed in the plan should be identified for inclusion in future open space planning. Each of these functions has an overlapping array of values provided within those functions. When prioritizing functions for land use planning, the City should demonstrate compatibility of functions in order to avoid conflicts of use. Environmentally sensitive area protection is an overriding factor when evaluating a project's design. As environmentally sensitive areas are identified during stormwater basin analysis and development review, the City should require evaluation of other open space functions such as park and recreation opportunities, buffers, habitat, and cultural resources. The City should assure coordination and compatibility with the full range of functions and values, based on the open space goals, at all levels of long range planning and development review. COORDINATION WITH TRAIL PLANNING The Comprehensive Plan goals suggest a tie between open space and trail placement. Open space management plans should identify areas where trails would be compatible with other open space functions and values and not incompatible with protection of environmentally sensitive areas. Where feasible, the City should accommodate trails in unopened rights -of -way, future park development and through City owned parcels. Provision of non - motorized access should be considered during development review and through coordination with private landowners. Coordination should continue during the implementation of the Non - Motorized Transportation Plan. The Non - Motorized Transportation Plan also continues the implementation of the Executive Summary 8 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Comprehensive Public Access Plan and Urban Waterfront Plan, both adopted as components of the Shoreline management Master Plan, connecting the waterfront with a larger network of trails that lead to surrounding districts and residential neighborhoods. Development of specific trail improvements should include conflict avoidance priorities among the various potential functions and values of the open space. Greenways and trails identified in the Non - Motorized Plan should tie park system components together to form a continuous park environment. Trail planning should recognize the different functions of transportation oriented non - motorized facilities and recreational facilities such as low impact trails in wildlife habitat areas. ELEMENTS OF OPEN SPACE PLANNING Open space planning should incorporate the following elements: • Recognize urban landscape component. • Meet goals of the stormwater management plans and the North Quimper Peninsula Wildlife Corridor acquisition program. • Relate to environmentally sensitive areas and buffer management requirements • Consider all component functions and values of open space • Establishes priorities of function to avoid conflicts of use. The City should provide site specific plans for multiple- function management of City acquisitions. Plans should include discussion of stormwater problem areas, multiple -use priorities and protection requirements of environmentally sensitive areas as well as coordination efforts with areas of private conservation easements and trail access. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS OF THE PLAN Additional planning is the recommended action prior to significant capital acquisition or development in the following areas: GOLF COURSE - The City should develop a master plan and a business management plan with professional assistance in golf course design and business planning. This process is expected to take four years and include the involvement of a community advisory committee. Acknowledging that the City intends to explore all options for management and capital facility improvements for this facility, the Public Works Department should take a proactive approach to defining these options through the following actions: X Establishment of an advisory committee to study the short term and long term management options and develop a capital improvement plan that addresses in a comprehensive manner the environmental concerns associated with golf course best management practices in general and provides increased awareness and protection of environmentally sensitive areas on and near the course. Executive Summary 9 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN • Development of a capital improvement plan to include environmental, stormwater, recreation trails, golf course enhancement and property acquisition recommendations. • Further discussion of long term management options that gather comparison data with other public courses to develop a management plan that increases the revenues to the City and earmarks revenues to cover City operations and maintenance expenses at the Golf Course as well as for capital improvements. • Further discussion of short term management options that assesses current operations, the duties and responsibilities of each party and increases the financial accountability of the operator for all the revenue sources of the course operation. STREET TREE PLAN -The City should develop a master plan that includes a city -wide tree inventory, a public education component and includes the involvement of a community advisory committee. The Parking Section of the Port Townsend Municipal Code and the Engineering Design Standards provide a basis for new development requirements. These references should be revised to reflect additional recommendations as they are developed. PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE FUNDING OPTIONS The current budget has a stand alone fund balance for Parks and Recreation separated from the general fund current expense account. One of these current funding sources for capital projects derives from the two 1/4% Real Estate Excise Taxes adopted by Council. This funding provides 90% of the current capital funding for the Park Department. Sales tax and property tax also contribute to the Park Department fund. The percentage dedicated annually to the Parks Department Fund should be increased. The percentage dedicated to the park fund should be about 35 %. Transient Accommodation Tax funding has been limited to visual arts, conference or sports facilities, stadiums and coliseums. It has been used in Port Townsend to renovate the Pope Marine Building and partially funded the Golf Course Clubhouse. The use of these funds has recently been designated by the legislature to be more at the discretion of the local jurisdiction. Several facilities in the action plan could be considered to provide services directly related to accommodating tourist needs such as restroom facilities in high volume, prominent parks along the Waterwalk and at major trailheads. Based on the Capital Facilities Plan, budget revenue and expense projections indicate a need for the City to develop new funding sources for parks and recreation. Several currently unused options are recommended for further study or implementation. Revenue sources applicable to parks and recreation funding and other potential sources of funding are varied. The following funding options are recommended for further exploration and implementation: Executive Summary 10 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN * Transient Accommodation Tax with potentially more local control on rates and usages, * Impact fees to be established through an advisory panel and in accordance with state law * Other development fees from SEPA mitigation, subdivision or Planned Unit Development requirements as allowed by law, * Voluntary contributions through utility billing check off box, * Interagency Committee (IAC) grant funding to be used for specific projects related to water access development and urban wildlife property acquisition, * Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account (ALEA) from the Department of Natural Resources for facilities related to projects in state waters, * Real Estate Excise Tax dedicated to park fund at 35% total annual revenue, * 1% Real Estate Transfer Tax (county- wide), * Partnerships with private donors, Land Trust or other agencies, * Property acquisitions from other funds with coordinated uses, * Local Improvement District (LID)or Limited Utility District (LUD) to implement the Comprehensive Plan goal to provide assistance and encouragement for neighborhood groups for park development * General Bonds- voter approved or councilmanic, Admissions taxes to City facilities, local bond measure for specific facility proposals, service areas taxing districts or development of a local park district are not proposed as funding options at this time. Executive Summary 11 Ordinance No. C�) 6 9 1 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND ADOPTING THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND 1999 PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE PLAN AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE SECTION 1. FINDINGS AND RECITALS. Based upon the public record before the Port Townsend Planning Commission and the Port Townsend City Council, the City Council of the City of Port Townsend finds as follows: 1. The Washington State Legislature adopted the Washington State Growth Management Act of 1990 and amendments thereto, Chapter 36.70A RCW, (the "Act "), requiring selected counties and cities to prepare comprehensive plans consistent with the provisions of the Act. 2. After review and recommendation from the Port Townsend Planning Commission, the City's current comprehensive plan was adopted by the City Council in 1996 (Ordinance No. 2539) as the official public document intended to facilitate the orderly and coordinated growth and development of the City, and to guide the preparation of "implementing" or "functional" plans. 3. The Comprehensive Plan states the following: A. Develop a comprehensive open space and trails plan and implementation program which protects the natural environment and significant cultural resources, provides passive recreational opportunities, is integrated with the non - motorized component of the Transportation Element, and is designed to link neighborhoods with parks, significant open spaces, schools, shoreline access areas, mixed use centers and employment centers (Land Use Element, Goal 3). B. Develop a park and recreation [functional] plan and implementation strategy which addresses the community's needs for active and passive recreation opportunities (Land Use Element, Policy 4.1) 4. The City's 1991 Parks Plan had largely been implemented and did not address the new City recreation program and was therefore in need of an update. 5. In order to be eligible for potential State funding, it is necessary to update the 1991 Parks Plan. Updates should occur on a five -year cycle. The City determined that the 1996 Comprehensive Plan would fulfill this role until the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Functional Plan was developed to specifically implement the Comprehensive Plan Goals, Policies and levels of service. 6. The City Council requested the City's Parks and Recreation Commission to develop the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan. 7. As set forth in the findings below, the citizen involvement process employed in the planning process exceeds the public participation requirements set forth in the Act (RCW 36.70A.140). 8. Between July 1996 and December 1998, the Commission held over 8 public workshops and meetings as Commission members gathered information, identified key issues, and prepared the Draft Plan for community review. Additionally, a survey instrument was used and was sent out to 840 households, with 451 usable surveys being returned, for a 54% return. Additionally, numerous meetings of the Parks and Recreation Commission were held in formulating and developing this Plan, including joint meetings with the City Council's Parks, Recreation and Properties Committee. 9. On September 5, 1997 a complete Draft Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan was presented to the Port Townsend Department of Building and Community Development (BCD) for environmental review under the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA). 10. On October 8, 1997, and after timely public notice, the SEPA Responsible Official (Building and Community Development Director Bruce Freeland) made a determination of nonsignificance (DNS) concerning the Plan. The DNS was not appealed, and represents the final environmental determination concerning the Plan. 11. On October 1, 1997 and on October 29, 1998, during duly- noticed public workshops, the Planning Commission received overview presentations of the Draft Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan. 12. On October 1, 1998, and after timely public notice, the Port Townsend Planning Commission held a public hearing to accept public testimony concerning the specific recommendations contained in the Draft Plan. At the October 29, 1998 Planning Commission meeting, the Commission reviewed the Plan, considered public testimony an comments, engaged in deliberation, and formulated its recommendation to the City Council for approval of the Plan. 13. The Planning Commission transmitted the Draft Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan and a list of final recommended amendments to the City Council, together with a recommendation for adoption. The transmittal stated the Planning Commission's guiding principles in reviewing the plan and provided a summary of key recommended revisions and areas of concern. 14. On January 4, 1999, after timely public notice, the City Council held a public hearing to accept testimony, to review and approve the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan. 15. Over the course of the planning process, articles published in the Port Townsend - Jefferson County Leader, and Peninsula Daily News included: Biologist Tees Off on Golfs Hazards to Frogs, Peninsula Daily News, 11/10/97 Where Are Your Children ?, Peninsula Daily News, 4/11/97 P.T. Park Plan Directs Future, The Leader (date unknown) Input Sought on City Park Plan, The Leader, 12/10/96 1P anning, Peninsula Daily News, 12/10/96 Page 2 Ord No. d&81 Parks, Wildlife Top P.T. Survey, Peninsula Daily News, 2/11/97 Parks Survey Results Released, The Leader, 2/5/97 16. Throughout the planning process, the City Council, Planning Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission and City staff have referred to, and based the Plan upon the Community Direction Statement, the Goals and the extensive list of Parks, Recreation and Open Space related Policies found in the 1996 Comprehensive Plan. 17. The Community Direction Statement was adopted by the City Council on May 2, 1994, as a vision statement for the comprehensive planning process (Resolution No. 94 -65). 18. The Port Townsend Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan is fully consistent with, and does not substantially amend the 1996 Plan, and contains goals, policies, and recommended levels of service system maps, all intended to guide parks, recreation and open space planning and capital investment. Important components of the Plan include: (a) Confirmation and non - substantial, consistent additions to goals and policies from the 1996 Comprehensive Plan; (b) Statements of purpose for Parks, Recreation and Open Space functions; (c) A short history of Parks, Recreation and Open Space functions; (d) An inventory of existing facilities; (e) A summary of and indication of specific standards for the planning and development of Parks and Recreation programs and amenities; (f) A description of the public process and survey and the findings from the survey; (g) A recommendation concerning the levels of service for Parks; (h) A recommendation concerning parks, recreation and open/green space programs; (i) A recommended Capital Improvement Program; 0) A recommended financing program; and (k) Recommendations concerning the planning and development the Port Townsend Municipal Golf Course and implementation of street tree programs. 19. The Port Townsend Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan has been prepared in conformance with the goals and requirements of the Act, and is externally consistent with and compatible with the 13 state -wide planning goals contained in the Act (Chapter 36.70A.020 RCW). 20. Based upon the foregoing Findings and Recitals, and based upon the public testimony and comments made before the Planning Commission and the City Council, the City Council finds that adoption of the 1999 Port Townsend Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan is consistent with and implements portions of the 1996 Comprehensive Plan and serves and advances the public health, safety and welfare of Port Townsend citizens. Page 3 Ord No. 2 & �' / NOW, THEREFORE, based upon the record and the foregoing Findings and Recitals, the City Council of the City of Port Townsend does ordain as follows: SECTION 2. ADOPTION. The 1999 Port Townsend Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan (EXHIBIT A, attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference), as recommended by the Planning Commission, is approved in its entirety as a "functional" and "implementing" land use and development planning document for the City of Port Townsend, supplementing and implementing the 1996 Comprehensive Plan, adopted by Ordinance 2539. The 1991 Parks Plan is hereby REPEALED AND SUPERSEDED by the 1999 Parks, Recreation and Open Place Plan. The 1996 Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan, Ordinance 2539, and the public record in support thereof are incorporated herein by this reference. SECTION 3. FILING. The Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan as approved shall be filed with the City Clerk and shall be available for public inspection upon the effective date of this Ordinance. SECTION 4. TRANSMITTAL TO DOTED. The City Clerk shall transmit a copy of this Ordinance and the 1999 Port Townsend Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan as approved by the City Council on this date, to the Washington State Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development ( DCTED) within 10 days of final adoption of this Ordinance, and to other offices and agencies as may be required by law. SECTION 5. PREPARATION OF FINAL REVISED PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE PLAN COPIES. Copies of a Final 1999 Port Townsend Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan, incorporating all amendments to the goals, policies, implementing strategies and maps as recommended by the Planning Commission and approved by the City Council (i.e., integrating all revisions and any addendum into one coherent document for public use), shall be prepared by Port Townsend Department of Public Works staff and shall be made available for public inspection within 30 days of final adoption of this Ordinance. SECTION 6. SEVERABILITY. If any clause, sentence, paragraph, section or part of this Ordinance or its application to any person or circumstance is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by an agency, hearings body or court of competent jurisdiction, such order or judgment shall not affect the validity or constitutionality of the remainder of any part of this ordinance. To this end, the provisions of each clause, sentence, paragraph, section or part of this law are declared severable. Page 4 Ord No. a %( SECTION 7. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect five days following publication of this Ordinance or the summary thereof. Read for the first, second, and third times and adopted by the City Council of the City of Port Townsend, Washington, at a regular meeting thereof, held this 19 day of January, 1999. Attest: GI&M S '&� ---" Pam Kolacy, City Clerk 6 First, second, third readings and passage: January , 1999 ��N l 9, i 9 1 cj Publication: January a 7 , 1999 Effective: Jay , 1999 Fels Ordinance No. Z co 14 Transmittal to State , 1999 �b [Note: Originals ofEXFIIBITA and the Addendum (if any) thereto are on fide with a copy of this ordinance in the City Clerk's Office.] 1/07/99 CA \t1m \ord \9907parkAxt [98 -72] Juli cCulloch, Mayor Approved as to Form: Page 5 Ord No. --2 (0 9 Lam.' iljl� 1 City of Port Townsend CITY CLERK CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND 540 Water Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368 360/385 -3000, ext. 3132 FAX 360/385 -4290 February 18, 1999 Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development P.O. Box 48300 Olympia WA 98504 -8300 Dear DCTED: Please find enclosed a copy of the City of Port Townsend 1999 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan and a copy of the ordinance adopting the plan. Yours truly, Pamela Kolacy City Clerk CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN I. INTRODUCTION Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and cheer and give strength to body and soul alike. - John Muir I -Intro January , 1999 I -I FIGURE I- I VICINITY MAP a 1: _ eon �,gyp � • 6' a r� s ° ,- frA.: *` � R • vs, ° � ., 7 a „4- �x Olympia •. Port Townsend & Vicinity 1_3 Parks and Recreation Functional Plan 1998 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN THE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Parks, open space, and recreational opportunities are fundamental to the quality of life for people, communities, and society as a whole. Few things measure and define the quality of life of a community as directly as access for all ages of citizens to a variety of leisure opportunities and natural spaces. Parks, playgrounds, nature trails, open space, and community centers make a community an attractive and desirable place to live, work, play and visit. The Parks, Recreation & Open Space Functional Plan is intended to provide a snapshot of the City parks and recreation system as well as reflect the needs and desires of the community. The 1996 Parks and Recreation survey quantified impressions citizens have of their community and identifies areas for improvement. The Functional Plan uses these results and other available information to direct future facility and program planning in accordance with the overall goals and policies for Parks Recreation and Open Space, as identified in the City of Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan. The City completed its last Parks Functional Plan in 1991. Since that time, much progress has been made, including: • Completion of City Dock replacement, Pope Marine Building rehabilitation, and Union Wharf reconstruction, all with substantial grant funding • Preservation of several greenways, such as Winona Wetland and the Levinski property • Construction of several trails for new developments and paths along San Juan Avenue • Initial development of recreational facilities and fields at 35th Street Park • Design and construction of several stormwater treatment/detention facilities that will enhance passive recreation • Construction of recreational facilities for youth, such as the Skateboard Facility • Creation of the City of Port Townsend's Recreation Program, including recreation and pool activities, substantially expanded since the city began its program in 1995 to meet the recreational needs of City youths, adults and seniors The overall context of this functional plan is directed by the Comprehensive Plan. The City's Comprehensive Plan developed overall goals and policies for Parks, Recreation, and Open Space and Trails. These goals and policies reflect numerous values to the community including: C Education C Stewardship C Law Enforcement C Community Building C Sense Of Place C Economic Benefits Guided by the Comprehensive Plan, this functional plan refines these goals and policies. This plan recommends programs to produce a more detailed park, recreation and open space plan. Through implementation of the Functional Plan, the parks and recreation programs will be better 1 -intro January , 1999 I -5 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN able to provide a full range of recreational activities, park facilities and strategies to implement the open space component of the Comprehensive Plan. While the City will continue to develop parks and recreation programs, there is much yet to be done to meet current and anticipated demands. It is the City's strategy to work cooperatively and develop partnerships with others for facility use and program development. City parks and open spaces are the assets used to promote visitor and tourism development. Indicators of tourist visits such as Fort Worden State Park registrations, Port Townsend Visitor Information Center registrants, and City hotel /motel tax revenues have steadily increased over the last five years. The rapid influx of visitors and the 3% annual population growth rate push Port Townsend residents to preserve the natural beauty that drew us here. As population increases, the city will experience crowding in our parks; development and infill will threaten historically open spaces. City park facilities must satisfy the growing needs of both visitor /tourist and the local community. Recently constructed play field and facility improvements will meet the needs of many, but not all, user groups. The community plays an important role in the direction these programs take to meet the challenges of the future. Over the past fifteen years, the Parks & Recreation Comprehensive Plans have reflected common desires and priorities even though the makeup of the community has seen a subtle change in the age and income of the average resident. Public input was solicited in several ways and is encouraged in developing and implementing this plan. A Citywide citizen survey taken in the fall of 1996 identified the following priorities for parks and recreational needs: • Activities for youth • Trails for walking and exercise • Wildlife corridors • Bike lanes and trails • Developed beach access • Further development of neighborhood parks • Further development of Mountain View Swimming Pool The City of Port Townsend Comprehensive Parks, Recreation & Open Space Functional Plan documents our park, recreation, and open space needs in relation to the community as it exists today. With a future vision in mind, the planning process has ability to focus direction for future development of programs, facilities and funding sources. Through this process, details for implementation of the Comprehensive Plan have been defined. With input from the community as a whole, the Functional Plan recommends general and specific actions to realize the community vision. This plan has been prepared in cooperation with the City Council Parks Recreation and Property Committee, the Parks and Recreation Commission and the Public Works participating on the Oversight Committee established in 1996 and listed below. 1 -intro January , 1999 I -6 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN The Oversight Committee members are: Jim Farmer, Chair, Parks and Recreation Commission Steve Hayden, Parks and Recreation Commission Mark Welch, Chair Parks and Property Committee, City Council Bill Davidson, City Council Joey Johnson, Port Townsend School District The City of Port Townsend Parks and Recreation Commission would like to thank the City Council for its support. The Parks & Recreation Commission is a seven member volunteer citizens' advisory board appointed by the Mayor with the approval of the City Council. 1 -intro January , 1999 I -7 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANNING AREA The City of Port Townsend is located on the northeast tip of the Quimper Peninsula (the northeastern portion of the Olympic Peninsula) in eastern Jefferson County. The Strait of Juan de Fuca forms the north boundary of the City, with Admiralty Inlet adjacent to the east and Port Townsend Bay on the southeast. Unincorporated portions of Jefferson County border the City on the southwest and west. The City is in the Olympic rain shadow, a unique climatological phenomenon characterized by relatively low levels of precipitation. The City experiences only about 18 inches of rain annually. With water on three sides, winters are mild and summers cool. Together, these result in one of the most comfortable climates in the Pacific Northwest. The natural setting of this "Key City" of the Peninsula is accentuated with buildings and green spaces that combine with the Olympic Mountains, the Cascade Mountains and marine vistas to create a dramatic backdrop for an attractive and memorable place. By ferry, the City is the gateway to the Olympic Peninsula's natural wonders. The air is fresh and the adjacent waters of Port Townsend Bay, Admiralty Inlet and the Strait of Juan de Fuca are clean, full of marine life and easily accessible. With the exception of several shoreline cliffs, the topography is not severe. Elevation ranges from sea level to 300 feet. The City contains approximately 7.3 square miles or about 4,652 acres. Historic Character Port Townsend has a semi - rural, small town character and a very impressive Victorian architectural heritage. Founded in 1851, the City harbors a wealth of superb Victorian era homes recognized on the National Historic Register. These historic buildings provide a magnificent backdrop and preserve a tangible link to Port Townsend's vanished dreams of being the preeminent city of the Puget Sound region. In 1980, the Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service granted Port Townsend National Historic Landmark status, the highest possible level of distinction and protection. The greatest concentration of historically significant commercial buildings is in the Central Business District on Port Townsend Bay, although most of the architecturally interesting residential structures are located on the hill above the downtown area. A wide choice of housing types and prices is available for a diversity of lifestyles and incomes. Residential development is centered in distinct neighborhoods that are safe, secure, and have identities and characters of their own. Opportunities for socializing, recreation, quiet and solitude are all close at hand, as are facilities and events that enrich the body, mind, and spirit. Fort Worden State Park and Conference Center is within Port Townsend occupying the northeast tip of the Peninsula. The 433 acre fort was built in the late 1890's and contains a fascinating collection of Victorian houses, barracks, theater, parade grounds and labyrinthine cement batteries. The fort was converted to a State Park in 1971 and has been developed into a conference and recreation center. The State Park is also designated as a Historic District and National Historic Landmark. The Centrum Foundation, located in the park and established in 1974, provides creative workshops and hosts a wide variety of programs in the arts which attract visitors from around the country on a year -round basis. 1 -intro January , 1999 I -8 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Historic commercial buildings, long established residential areas, parks, town squares, and tree - lined streets give the City an atmosphere of relaxed permanence. Parks, gateways, and walkways focus on special places including historic structures and natural features of the area. Buses provide useful transportation options for workers, shoppers, and visitors. The City is oriented toward developing a system of trails and bikeways. The City's tree -lined walks, trails, and streets provide shade and habitat and reinforce Port Townsend's existing but limited network of green spaces. Open Spaces Open spaces offering an opportunity for rest, views, contemplation, and enjoyment of the natural environment are found throughout the City. These public spaces are free of litter, well maintained, and richly planted with flora that blends with the native vegetation. The downtown waterfront is an attraction that offers cultural, educational, and social opportunities that reinforce the City's natural setting. The Waterwalk has begun to provide people with a pedestrian path along the shore of Port Townsend Bay, eventually linking the City's shoreline with the Larry Scott Memorial Trail, Fort Worden State Park and North Beach County Park. As in many small towns, the intensity of land development decreases with the distance from the city center. Small farms are still maintained along San Juan Avenue, Hastings Avenue, and portions of Discovery Road (outlying points west of the commercial district). The City's rural lands act as wildlife corridors providing vital links between critical wetland habitats, drainage corridors, and other areas needing protection. These corridors connect with a larger network of wildlife movement routes that extend beyond the City and into the County, ultimately leading to the Olympic National Forest and National Park. Land Use General patterns of land use in Port Townsend during the next 20 years will be influenced significantly by the City's development history. Recent population trends indicate that considerable growth and development is likely to occur during the next twenty years. Thus, the preservation of open spaces presents one of the greatest land use planning challenges as development rapidly converts open spaces to other uses and significantly alters the small town atmosphere of the City. The community has demonstrated throughout this and previous planning processes that it advocates and is willing to support protection of these resources from incompatible development. By 1994, only about 26% (3,885) of the city's 14,470 platted lots had been developed, primarily for single- family housing. Because easily developed lands are usually built upon before land with greater natural constraints, such as wetlands and steep slopes, some of the remaining 10,585 vacant lots may never be fully developed. However, it is clear that Port Townsend has an abundant supply of land suitable for residential uses, and the City is not likely to approach build - out within the next 20 years. Population The City Comprehensive Plan was completed in July 1996. It estimates a City population of 8,275 in July of 1996 compared to a population of 7,085 in 1990 and approximately 6,068 in 1 -intro January , 1999 I -9 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 1980, or a 21% increase from 1990 to 1997 and 41% since 1980. Between 1990 and 1997, this is approximately 3% growth per year. The most heavily populated areas of the City are in the Uptown District and in some areas in the southwestern portion of the City, near Kah Tai Lagoon, with densities approaching 25 people per acre. The Washington State Office of Financial Management (OFM) estimated Port Townsend's population to be 8,580 in 1997. Education A regional center of culture and learning, Port Townsend provides its citizens with quality elementary and secondary instruction. Opportunities exist through a variety of institutions for career training and college classes needed for success and personal enrichment. The City offers world class arts and entertainment and celebrating its cultural and historical assets by hosting many exciting festivals and events. From the city center, we are only a convenient bike ride or walk from work, classes, dining, entertainment, and home. This closeness reinforces the tie between Port Townsend's economy, culture, and a large residential community. Out of 4,967 persons aged 25 years or older, 87.6% have high school diplomas, and 27.7% have bachelor degrees or higher. These figures are high in comparison with Jefferson County and the State of Washington as a whole. Current figures show that since 1990, on average, over 50% of Port Townsend High School graduates have enrolled in a two or four year college each year. Age Distribution The median age in Port Townsend is 40.2 years, seven years higher than the median age for the entire State (33.1) and one year lower than the median age for Jefferson County as a whole (41.1). In the City, 24% of the population is under the age of 18, while 19.5% is 65 or older. Table I -1 compares the age distribution of the State, County, and City in 1996. The youth of Port Townsend are recognized as an important part of the community. The City cultivates opportunities for the youth of our town to play, socialize, find entertainment and work, and be involved in extra - curricular experiences. Port Townsend's elderly and special needs populations are appreciated for making valuable contributions to the life of the community and are afforded convenient access to transportation and other human services. Volunteerism remains essential to the fabric of the community. Citizen volunteers enrich the community by donating their time and services to a wide variety of community organizations, artistic and cultural endeavors, environmental protection and enhancement efforts, and efforts that aid disadvantaged segments of the population. Social and health services are available and provide dignified care to dependent residents. The community offers training and support for those able to become more independent. Income The median household income for Port Townsend in 1990 was $25,518. Port Townsend's residents have slightly higher income levels than those of Jefferson County as a whole. In comparison with the State, however, the City's income level is considerably lower for family and household income levels fall 13.9% and 18.2% below the state average. The most drastic 1 -intro January , 1999 I -10 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN difference between City and State figures occurs in "non- traditional" households, with Port Townsend's non - traditional household income approximately 28.8% lower than the State average. Approximately 8.2% of Port Townsend's population have incomes below the poverty level as established by the federal government (i.e. a family of four at or below $13,950 /year), slightly higher than the percentage statewide. While an important measure of local economic strength, traditional income measures provide only part of the local picture. Retirement - related transfer payments and investment income are two important sources of income for many residents, especially those over age 65. Statistics indicate that nearly 50% of all personal income in Jefferson County are derived from investments and transfer payments. Economics Port Townsend is a vital and active place that retains a small town atmosphere and a strong sense of community. In its retail districts, sidewalks are lined with busy shops that cater to residents as well as visitors. Cottage based industries, low impact light manufacturing, and some incubator industries are found in the area. The urban waterfront along Port Townsend Bay is anchored at either end by marinas and port areas devoted to the City's marine - related commerce and industry. These areas are essential to the character of Port Townsend as a working waterfront town. Port Townsend Paper Company continues to be a major source of non - governmental employment for the Jefferson County area. Seasonally, the marine trades provide approximately 400 jobs within the City. Among the major governmental employers in the City are Jefferson General Hospital, Jefferson County, and the Port Townsend School District #50. The City of Port Townsend employs 94 people. Assisted living and full time care centers employ an additional number of service workers. Two new care centers will have opened by the end of 1998. Tourism is an increasingly important industry and continues to grow with the City's recognition as a historic and cultural center. Expansion of the marine trades industry and significant promotional activities by the City's Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) serve to entice more and more visitors to the community each year. All indicating factors of tourism, Fort Worden State park registrations, Port Townsend Visitor Information Center registrants, and City transient accommodation tax revenues have steadily increased over the last five years. Service and retail jobs are the fastest growing sector of the City's economy. These jobs are often seasonal and pay minimal wages. RELATION TO OTHER PLANS 1996 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Basic assumptions about Port Townsend's future expressed above are found in the 1996 Comprehensive Plan. Concerns about environmental issues like water quality and wildlife preservation will impact local land use planning. The economy will expand. Tourism will remain important to the local economy as the marine trades increase in economic importance. Port 1 -intro January , 1999 I -11 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Townsend will experience additional interest in arts and cultural activities, creating a demand for new and improved facilities. These assumptions, among others, influenced the development of each of the Comprehensive Plan elements and the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Functional Plan. A balance of land uses is sought in the Comprehensive Plan to provide more opportunities for residents of Port Townsend to find meaningful employment and affordable housing, while retaining and protecting the environment and the unique character of the community. Future land use planning in Port Townsend is guided by the goal that all uses - residential, commercial, manufacturing, open space, and public facilities - be carefully planned to maintain or enhance the City's small town atmosphere. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN OVERALL GOALS AND POLICIES The overall goals and policies for Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails were adopted in the 1996 Comprehensive Plan Land Use Element. Additional goals and policies adopted in the 1991 Parks Plan are included here as 4A and 4B and are recommended for adoption in the Comprehensive Plan. The following goals and policies in bold are addressed through assessment and recommendations of this functional plan in order to implement the City of Port Townsend 1996 Comprehensive Plan. Those items that are not in bold are not addressed in this plan. Documents in parentheses denote other plans that have addressed these specific objectives. PARKS AND RECREATION Comprehensive Plan Goal 4: To develop park and recreation facilities, programs, and opportunities which are responsive to the needs and interests of Port Townsend residents. Policies: 1. Develop a parks and recreation plan and implementation strategy which addresses the community's needs for active and passive recreation opportunities. a) Provide recreation programs that are comprehensive, enriching, and affordable for all citizens. b) Provide a wide range of athletic facilities such as: tennis courts; baseball and softball fields; gymnasiums; swimming pools; multi - purpose fields for soccer and general outdoor play; volleyball courts; and a golf course. C) Provide a wide range of passive recreation opportunities within the parks system (e.g., nature walks, picnic areas, bird watching, and observation areas). I -Intro January , 1999 I -12 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 2. Acquire and develop public park and recreational lands to serve the future population of the City. 3. Pursue a variety of options for park and recreation facility acquisition and development. a) During development review, encourage developers to dedicate land for future park and recreation facilities. b) Apply for Grants from public agencies and private foundations to acquire land and develop the City's park and recreation facilities. c) When revising the Port Townsend Municipal Code (PTMC) to implement this Plan, provide incentives that encourage developers to provide neighborhood parks which serve the residents of new developments (e.g., density bonuses, mitigation land banking creative right -of -way use). d) When revising the PTMC to implement this Plan, provide incentives that encourage developers in commercial districts to provide parks, plazas, courtyards, arcades, atriums, pedestrian corridors, and through block corridors. 4. Locate, design, construct, and manage park and recreation facilities to be compatible with natural features (e.g., soils, geology, topography, and shoreline resources) and cultural resources. a) Preserve natural features that are conducive to park and recreation functions. b) Incorporate habitat considerations in the design and development of new park and recreation facilities. C) Encourage the use of native plants which attract wildlife. d) Incorporate significant cultural resources in the design and development of new park and recreation facilities, and provide interpretive opportunities where appropriate. 5. Design and manage park and recreation facilities to maximize environmental protection and provide interpretive opportunities for ecological systems and features, and cultural resources. 6. Design park and recreation facilities to accommodate a citizenry diverse in age, interests, income levels, and abilities. 1 -Intro January , 1999 I -13 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 7. Where adverse impacts could occur, screen and buffer park and recreation facilities to protect adjacent or nearby private properties. 8. Consider acquiring in- holdings and adjacent parcels that would increase the long- term integrity and viability of the City's park and recreational lands. 9. Broaden the use of school buildings and grounds as places for public use after school and on evenings. a) Increase cooperative management with the Port Townsend School District through joint use agreements. b) Joint use agreements should seek to renovate, schedule, and manage facilities for greater public use and enjoyment. 10. Support, encourage, and provide technical assistance to neighborhood associations seeking to acquire or develop property for neighborhood parks, recreation, and open space. 11. Work with Jefferson County to identify future park and recreational facility needs within the unincorporated portion of the Port Townsend Final Urban Growth Area (FUGA). 12. Assure that maintenance and operation costs are considered in the development of City park and recreation facilities. Ensure that City park and recreation facilities incorporate design and construction features that minimize long -term operation and maintenance costs (e.g., design park restrooms to include energy efficient light fixtures and skylights). 13. Set citywide standards for park and recreational facility maintenance, and the unit costs to achieve those standards. OPEN SPACES & TRAILS Comprehensive Plan Goal 3: To develop a comprehensive open space and trails plan and implementation program which protects the natural environment and cultural resources, provides passive recreation opportunities, is integrated with the non - motorized component of the Transportation Element, and is designed to link neighborhoods with parks, significant open spaces, schools, shoreline access areas, mixed use centers, and employment centers. Policies: I -Intro January , 1999 I -14 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 1. Acquire and develop public open space and trails within the priorities, financial capabilities, and level of service standards of the Capital Facilities Element. 2. Develop and implement non - regulatory and regulatory means for acquiring and developing the open space and trails network. a) During development review, encourage applicants to dedicate land for future open space and trails. b) Amend the zoning and subdivision codes to provide incentives for open space including, but not limited to clustered developments and planned unit developments (PUDs). C) Acquire land for open spaces and trails through municipal or state programs, such as storm water management and wildlife /wetland protection. d) Apply for grants from public agencies and private foundations to acquire land for open spaces and trails. e) Work with nonprofit groups, such as the Jefferson Land Trust, to obtain conservation easements and create incentives for open space and trails system development. f) Use property tax deferral programs to promote the retention of valuable open space land in an undeveloped state (i.e., the Open Space Taxation Act, Chapter 84.34 RCW). g) Explore other techniques for acquisition and development of the open space and trails network (e.g., Inter - Agency Commission on Outdoor Recreation (IAC) funding; utility bill donations, a community or regional bond issue, etc.). 3. Locate trails in areas that are important to preserve as open spaces, such as wooded areas, drainage corridors, shorelines, scenic vistas, and others. Locate trails along drainage corridors when possible to do so without degrading the environmental functions and values of the area. 4. Designate and retain wetlands, drainage corridors, and other areas that provide essential habitat for priority plant or wildlife species as passive open space. Sites which the City should consider acquiring include, but are not limited to: a. Winona Wetlands b. Howard Street Wetlands and Drainage Corridor 1 -Intro January , 1999 I -15 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN C. 50th Street Wetlands and Drainage Corridor d. Hastings /25th Street Wetlands and Drainage Corridor 5. Where possible, accommodate multiple functions within the open space and trails system, including: storm water management, viewpoints, protection of cultural resources, wildlife habitat, and passive recreation. 6. Coordinate with Jefferson County to identify and designate open space corridors and trails within and between urban growth areas, as required under the GMA. a) Integrate the open space and trails network with the proposed Olympic Discovery Trail, now named Larry Scott Memorial Trail. b) Support the establishment of a Quimper Peninsula wildlife and open space corridor. (Jefferson Land Trust North Quimper Peninsula Wildlife Corridor Project) 7. Identify existing unopened rights of way, utility corridors, and drainage corridors for use in developing the trails system. Design trails in a manner which allows the corridors to function as urban wildlife corridors. (Non- Motorized Plan) Preserve and enhance shoreline access areas. (Comprehensive Public Access Plan) a) Where feasible, additional shoreline access areas should be acquired. b) Street rights of way which extend to shorelines should provide public access. C) Signage should be provided to identify public access to shoreline areas. d) Designate and design specific shoreline access areas to provide for small vessels such as kayaks. 9. Design the trails system to link neighborhoods with parks, significant open spaces, schools, cultural resources, shoreline access areas, mixed use centers, and employment centers. Abutting or nearby larger scale developments should be encouraged to provide trail connectors to the larger trails and open space network. (Non- Motorized Plan) 10. Design trails to be accessible to people with disabilities as much as the natural characteristics (e.g., topography) of the region will allow. (Non- Motorized Plan) I -Intro January , 1999 I -16 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 11. Develop a coordinated sign program which provides a user friendly guide to the location of trails. (Non- Motorized Plan) 12. Consider trail linkages in the development of new government facilities, including new parks and open spaces. (Non- Motorized Plan) 13. Develop and adopt standards regarding trail uses that minimize conflicts between different types of trail users (e.g., pedestrians, bicyclists, and equestrians). (Non - Motorized Plan) 14. Provide adequate funding for open space and trails network operation and maintenance. I -Intro January , 1999 I -17 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 1991 PARKS AND RECREATION PLAN WILL BE SUPERSEDED BY THE 1999 PLAN The City completed its last Parks Functional Plan in 1991. That plan is superseded by the 1996 Comprehensive Plan and this Parks, Recreation & Open Space Functional Plan. The 1991 planning recommendations included: • Inventory, assess, and develop a trail system • Restore City Dock and Pope Marine Park Building for public use • Identify and pursue the acquisition of community park sites • Identify short range goals to meet youth recreation needs Since the 1991 Plan, much progress has been made in fulfilling those recommendations, including: ■ Completion of City Dock replacement, Pope Marine Building rehabilitation, and Union Wharf reconstruction, all with substantial grant funding; ■ The Comprehensive Public Access Plan along the Urban Waterfront was adopted in the Shoreline Master Program; ■ Construction of several trails and preservation of several greenways, such as Winona Wetland, and the Levinski property; ■ Construction of several trails for new developments, sidewalks and paths along San Juan Avenue, and bicycle lanes along 19th Street; ■ Completion of the inventory of existing and traditional bicycle trails through the Non - Motorized Transportation Plan addressing the systematic improvement of pedestrian and bicycle access, safety and recreation and establishment of a continuous trail loop around the City; ■ Beginning development of recreational facilities and practice fields at 35th Street Park; ■ Design and preparation for several stormwater treatment/detention facilities that will enhance passive recreation and maintain open space; ■ Construction of recreational facilities for youth, such as the Skateboard Facility; ■ Creation of the City of Port Townsend's Recreation Program, including recreation and pool activities, which have been substantially expanded since City management began in 1995 to meet the needs of City residents for youth, adults and seniors; ■ City membership in the Tree City USA organization; ■ City adoption of the ESA ordinance that acknowledges significant habitat and unique trees and vegetative species within City property and rights -of -way and protects wetlands, drainage corridors and other areas valuable for wildlife habitat. 1 -intro January , 1999 I -18 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN UNFINISHED AGENDA FROM THE 1991 PARK PLAN: ■ Additional land should be acquired for community parks. While some utility land purchases may allow for undeveloped recreational use to meet neighborhood needs, no land has been identified or acquired for full -sized community baseball fields or multifaceted sport facilities. A new neighborhood park is planned at the 35th Street site. ■ Develop a trails system. The 1998 Non - Motorized Transportation Plan includes a trail inventory. Development of priorities for construction and maintenance are addressed in that plan. ■ Park Property Acquisition: Implementation potential of the Kah Tai Lagoon Park recommendations from 1991 are at risk. Several lots adjoining the park on 19th Street remain in private ownership. Cherry Street property acquisition for Bobby McGarraugh Park is still an option. As population increases in that service area through infill, additional land may be necessary to accommodate increased use especially for parking and picnic facilities. Access from east has been blocked. There is limited pedestrian access on Cherry Street. ■ Street Tree Program Development: The Public Works Department is responsible for City trees. The needs identified in 1991 include working with an arborist on street tree issues, city -wide tree inventory, further training of park staff and development of public education and awareness programs. Funding has not allowed for an active program in this area, even though public concerns and demands in this area have increased substantially. A tree inventory limited to the Historic Districts of Port Townsend was conducted by the Mens' Garden Club in 1987. The City is part of the Tree City USA organization providing informational bulletins regarding urban forestry. 1 -Intro January , 1999 I -19 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN ADDITIONAL GOALS AND POLICIES FOR INCLUSION IN THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN The following goals and policies were adopted in the 1991 Parks Functional Plan. These goals and policies are recommended for adoption into the Comprehensive Plan through adoption of this functional plan and have been addressed for action by this plan. Goal 4A: To have recreation facilities provide for infrastructure improvements and adequate public services. Policies: 1. To accommodate vehicular and non - motorized traffic, both inside and outside the facility. 2. To develop and maintain proper water service and sewage and garbage disposal methods. 3. To assure adequate law enforcement services are available. 4. To provide on -site vehicular parking. 5. To prevent "activity overflow" onto adjacent properties. Goal 4B: To provide education and information services necessary to ensure the protection of aesthetic values and safety of public facilities. Policies: 1. To have recreation facilities provide screening, buffer strips, fences, and signs to prevent park overflow and to protect the value and enjoyment of adjacent or nearby private or public properties. 2. To emphasize preservation and conservation, and create an awareness that abuses such as tree cutting, flower picking, unauthorized taking of wildlife, marine life, driftwood and similar souvenirs, and destruction of public property diminishes the beauty and the future use of the parks, recreation, and open spaces. 3. To erect signs that are informational or directional aids only. These should be kept to a minimum in number and size. 4. To provide for the control of fires within recreation facilities. The provisions should conform with local fire district requirements. 5. To prohibit the use of off -road motorized vehicles unless specifically designed for that purpose. 6. To develop a user fee scale for use of certain facilities to offset costs of operations and maintenance. 1 -Intro January , 1999 I -20 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN OTHER PLANS Each of the following documents has provided direction for the development of the 1996 Comprehensive Plan goals and policies. Common concepts found within these documents include: • Maintaining a sense of community and small town atmosphere • Preserving and maintaining Port Townsend's special places • Encouraging economic diversity • Providing affordable housing for all citizens • Protecting the environment • Greater citizen involvement in the development of planning policies and regulations URBAN WATERFRONT PLAN The intent of the Urban Waterfront Plan is to foster public - private cooperation, promote good design and development of projects, protect water oriented uses, preserve the natural environment, maintain or enhance views, reduce transportation and parking problems, ensure the economic vitality of the downtown, provide a diversity of housing and visitor accommodations in the area, increase opportunities for pedestrian access to and along the shoreline, and promote a range of experiences that make Port Townsend a special place. The Urban Waterfront Plan, adopted by Council in December, 1990, is a detailed plan for the Urban Waterfront area that addresses uses of public and private properties, height and bulk of structures, housing, open space, pedestrian and vehicular circulation throughout the planning area, physical and visual connections to the rest of the waterfront and from the bluff above, and new urban design guidelines and regulations. While the 1998 Parks, Recreation & Open Space Functional Plan inventory includes several City facilities along the "Waterwalk," the Urban Waterfront Plan should be referenced for project review. GATEWAY DEVELOPMENT PLAN The Port Townsend Gateway Development Plan, adopted by Council in August 1993, provides a comprehensive blueprint for actions to improve traffic safety along the Sims Way /State Route Corridor, make the City's entrance more visually inviting, and promote the economic vitality of district businesses. The Parks, Recreation & Open Space Functional Plan identifies the importance of additional open space designation and park development in commercial zones, especially along this corridor. 1 -intro January , 1999 I -21 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN SHORELINE MANAGEMENT MASTER PROGRAM COMPREHENSIVE PUBLIC ACCESS PLAN The Comprehensive Public Access Plan, adopted by reference in the Shoreline Management Master Program in 1992, provides for continued and improved community access improvements to the shoreline through three distinct components: 1. Public Access Design Guidelines for guiding the development of public access improvements along the shoreline 2. Street End Access Improvement Program, providing policies, performance standards, detailed design recommendations and an implementation schedule for the development of street ends within the Urban Waterfront Special District 3. Implementation Incentives identifying key parcels of land which would improve the public's access to the shoreline and describing methods and incentives to encourage property owners in providing public access improvements. 01181 1MU►I. %V00 tad M- 41001 :i94:1►1 The Stormwater Master Plan provides policy statements regarding protection of natural drainage systems, recommendations for property acquisition and guidelines for development adjacent to sensitive areas and open spaces. ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREA ORDINANCE Environmentally Sensitive Area Ordinance goals and policies provide a comprehensive program to protect wetlands and wildlife areas from incompatible development. In many cases the reasonable use exemption for platted parcels does not allow for adequate preservation of ESA's and their buffers in a manner adequate to protect a system's functions and values, for example, around Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park. NON - MOTORIZED TRANSPORTATION PLAN The purpose of the 1998 Non - Motorized Transportation Plan is to specifically address the needs of non - motorists, primarily for development of facilities for pedestrians and bicyclists. The main goal of the planning process is to integrate bicycle and pedestrian facilities into the City's landscape. The Plan includes guidelines such as illustrated design standards and development policies and implementing strategies for non - motorized transportation projects. The Plan includes an inventory map of existing and traditional trails and proposed routes for improvements. The Parks, Recreation & Open Space Functional Plan will help focus non - motorized trail plans in order to connect existing and future recreation and park facilities and other community centers. The implementation of the Comprehensive Public Assess Plan for trail connections along Port Townsend Bay including street end trail and beach access is only partially complete. The Comprehensive Plan goals suggest a tie between open space and trail placement. Areas where the trail system would be compatible with and enhance access to a variety of open space values have not been specifically identified or reviewed for environmental impacts. 1 -intro January , 1999 I -22 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN PORT TOWNSEND 2020: GETTING TOGETHER (P.T. 2020) Published in May 1993 by the City of Port Townsend, this report compiles comments and concerns generated through a series of coffee gatherings in response to specific questions regarding the future vision of Port Townsend. The project was meant to provide a forum for discussion about Port Townsend's special character and future development. The aim was to get the broadest possible community expression about how citizens want Port Townsend to be in the 21st century. The results were crafted into the Community Vision statement adopted in the 1996 Comprehensive Plan. RELATION TO CITY MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE Figure I -2 describes the City's administrative organization for decisions and responsibilities related to parks, recreation, open space, and trails. Coordination and planning for parks, trails, and open space is provided between the Building and Community Development Department and the Public Works Department through the development review process and through implementation of this and other functional plans. The Parks and Recreation Commission, a seven member commission appointed by the Mayor meets monthly. It operates under rules of order. The Commission guides policy of the City and makes management and development recommendations to the Parks and Recreation Departments. The Parks, Recreation and Property committee of the City Council considers the recommendations of the Parks and Recreation Commission regarding policy, facility, program development, funding, and management for approval by the City Council. FIGURE I -2. Existing Organizational Structure PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION 11 CITY COiTNCIL CITIZENS CITY nLANAGER Bldg. &Community' Development Director Shorelines / ESA Permittin Development Review PiTBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR Administration Financial Engineering Group OPERATIONS & RECREATION / MAINTENANCE POOL Street, Sewer, Storm Equipment PARKS water Rental I -Intro January , 1999 I -23 Treatment & Water Quality J Water Distribution CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN II. PARKS *INTRODUCTION * HISTORY & EXISTING CONDITIONS * * SERVICE AREA ANALYSIS * * OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE * * FINANCING * "Everywhere is walking distance if you have enough time" - anonymous "A thank you to the parks staff for keeping our parks looking beautiful. I go to our parks quite often and am grateful to have them here." "I think the Parks Department does a great job." 1996 Survey Respondents II -Parks January, 1999 II -1 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN STATEMENT OF PURPOSE FOR CITY PARKS DIVISION The purpose of the Parks Division of the Department of Public Works is: • To develop and maintain park facilities that are responsive to the needs and interests of the City of Port Townsend residents; • To follow the directions given in the City GMA Comprehensive Plan through the adopted goals and policies; • To develop a budget and revenues for park facilities that provide adequate and realistic funding for operation and maintenance of existing parks and for acquisition and operation and maintenance of future facilities; • To develop a financed capital improvement program that assures that repairs, rehabilitation, new facilities and park safety are addressed; • To regularly seek public input and involvement related to parks facilities; • To continually pursue cooperative efforts, joint project development, and long range planning with other governmental agencies. • To work with the Parks & Recreation Commission on policies related to parks facilities. • To design future parks to be environmentally sensitive and low maintenance. II -Parks January, 1999 II -3 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN INTRODUCTION Port Townsend's park system is integral to the City's magnetic beauty. In Port Townsend, city and county residents enjoy our parks as part of their daily schedules, and visitors from all over the world, while adding to the local economy, take advantage of our renowned waterfront parks and beach access. Whether used actively or passively, the Port Townsend park system enriches our lives. The public is generally satisfied with current park facilities and their operation. Cleanliness is the number one priority. Appearance and landscaping are important to the residents of Port Townsend. The City knows how to do this well and efficiently. Though landscaping is low on the priority list of new amenities, people love the flower displays that are currently offered. People want nice places in which to walk. Neighborhood parks are important to residents. Views and location are important when considering new property acquisitions. Natural areas and wildlife habitat are high priorities as are sport courts and fields in neighborhood parks. COMMUNITY SPIRIT The community willingness to volunteer time and effort to enhance local parks is evident throughout the City. The picnic shelter and years of tree plantings in Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park, the Tidal Clock beach plantings, volunteer clean ups in Sather Park, the flower display in the Master Gardeners' Dahlia Demonstration Garden are examples of how citizen volunteers augment the increasing workload of the park department staff. This volunteer spirit is also bringing about wildlife enhancement in neighborhood stormwater facilities in several parts of town. Neighborhood groups are encouraged to seek City assistance to acquire or develop property for neighborhood parks and should be encouraged in the identification and development of new park facilities in the western sections of town. This spirit of community and sense of place makes City parks inviting to visitors as well as residents. The rapid influx of new residents and the increase of tourism push us to preserve the natural beauty that drew us here. All indicators of visitor use have steadily increased over the last five years. Our parks and open spaces are the assets used to promote visitor and tourism development. City park facilities must satisfy the growing needs of both visitors and the local community. The increase in use from tourists and the expected population increase from in -fill around the existing neighborhood parks is likely to diminish opportunities for quiet solitude as well as the level of service the department can provide for maintenance. Repair and replacement is needed as facilities age. This aging affects the ambiance of the City parks and the neighborhoods that surround them. PARK TYPES This plan establishes an inventory and analysis of parks based on three types of developed park facilities currently existing in the City of Port Townsend, pocket parks, neighborhood parks and community parks. The distinctions are based broadly on the type of amenity, size and function in the landscape that is provided. The standards for level of service based on existing conditions within the City of Port Townsend are discussed in Section VI, Recommendations /Action Plan. II -Parks January, 1999 II -4 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN HISTORY AND EXISTING RESOURCES 1. CHETZEMOKA PARK: This 10+ acre park, located on the hillside overlooking Admiralty Inlet, has a commanding view of the Cascade Mountains and includes extensive tidelands. The keystone of Port Townsend's parks, this Victorian park was established in 1904. The name honors the local Indian leader who befriended Port Townsend's early settlers. It is highly developed with flower gardens and plantings, bandstand, picnic areas, picnic shelter, play equipment, and ADA accessible restrooms. There is also access to the park's beach and tidelands. County and city respondents to the 1989 survey designated Chetzemoka Park as the most used park in the county as well as the city. In 1991 and 1996 city residents ranked it the most used city park. The caretaker's house is used as a park shop facility, office, and meeting space. In 1987 the park beach access was severely damaged by storms and high tides. An IAC grant funded repairs to the beach access. In the spring of 1990 a sprinkler irrigation system was installed and the restrooms were renovated. In the summer of 1991 the bandstand was completely reconstructed; modeled after the original, it continues to be a favorite place for gatherings and weddings. Early in 1993 all of the play equipment in the park went through a complete renovation. Old equipment was demolished and new equipment was installed using the Consumer Product Safety Commission's standards. Proper surfacing and borders were constructed to provide a safer place for children to play. Renovation of the restrooms per specifications of the "Americans with Disabilities Act" was completed in the summer of 1995 to accommodate persons in wheelchairs. In 1997 a water garden with tropical plantings was established. The kitchen shelter was renovated in 1998. 2. GOLDEN AGE CLUB: This piece of city property adjoins Chetzemoka Park and is mowed by the parks department through the mowing season. Formerly part of the coastal defense system, the facility provided recreation services for seniors over several decades. The building has deteriorated over the years and is not safe for public use. The site is presently used as a wetland plant nursery. 3. SKATEBOARD AREA: The City provided a section of a parking lot adjacent to Monroe Street at the east side of town for skateboarding. Ramps were built by volunteers of all ages with City assistance and the existing asphalt was resurfaced. The users are responsible for cleaning up after themselves and monitoring any activities that may be inappropriate at this site. While the city does not actively maintain the facility at this time, it does provide assistance to the volunteers. Future construction plans will include new ramps that will be made of more durable materials. Currently there is a "sani- can ", garbage can, and a drinking fountain available for the users. A Conditional Use Permit would be necessary to make this facility permanent at the present location. 4 &5. POPE MARINE PARK/CITY DOCK: This 1.2 acre park, purchased in 1997, is a popular public waterfront facility. Fronting Port Townsend's main street and located across from City Hall, this park is comprised of City Dock, Pope Marine Visual Arts Center, lawn, picnic areas, II -Parks January, 1999 II -5 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN and playground. It is adjacent to the Jackson Bequest (a tidal clock and wave - viewing gallery). This park is dedicated to John B. Pope, retired City Parks Department supervisor. In 1993 the original dock was torn down and replaced. IAC grant funding provided 50% of the replacement costs. The new dock features a floating dock for temporary moorage. The historic building that once stood over the water, was moved upland. Now known as the Pope Marine Visual Arts Center, it was refurbished inside and out with hotel /motel tax revenue and continues serving as a public meeting space and conference center. Fees are charged for use of the Pope Marine Building and for commercial use of City Dock. Pope Marine Park was extended west into the Madison Street right -of -way and landscaped using compost from the City's Biosolids Compost Facility in 1995 in accordance with the Comprehensive Public Access Plan. 6. TIDAL PARK/WAVE VIEWING GALLERY: Built in 1987 with a bequest from Mrs. Ruth Jackson, this park features a concrete sculpture referred to as the "Tidal Clock". As part of the sculpture a structure was built along the water's edge named the "Wave Viewing Gallery ". In 1995 some landscaping alterations were done in order to soften the area and make it more park- like. Sand beds were established with native beach grasses and beach peas planted by volunteers. The landscaping was augmented with large pieces of driftwood to enhance the beachscape. 7. ADAMS STREET PARK: This is a small 0.25 -acre downtown waterfront parcel It was purchased in May 1993, and augments the street end beach access. Future plans are for a simple low- maintenance landscape design that will provide a comfortable and safe place to gather and enjoy the view of Port Townsend Bay. Temporary beds of flowers and ornamental grasses were planted in 1997. 8. UNION WHARF: The last of the historic waterfront docks still standing in Puget Sound in the 1990's, the facility had collapsed and remained unused since 1981. Union Wharf was removed and reconstructed in 1996 and 1997. The facility sits in the central downtown business district. Decreased in width and in length due to eelgrass bed concerns, the new dock features a timber - framed, open -air structure that echoes the old warehouse facade. A floating dock will make the wharf accessible to transient boaters. This dock is built to accommodate larger vessels and will be an excellent facility for commercial boats as well as for tourists. There are displays and interpretive panels discussing history and environmental issues. Future improvements include street and sidewalk upgrades making the intersection of Water and Taylor Streets a focal point downtown. The new facility opened in May 1997. 9. TERRACE STEPS AND HALLER FOUNTAIN: This is a 0.1 acre landscaped staircase for foot traffic only. It connects the upper and lower sections of the central part of the City. Haller Fountain statue stands at the foot of the steps with benches for viewing and resting. A new bronze replica of the statue was created in 1993 to replace the badly damaged and deteriorated original that was made of pot metal. With it came the reconstruction of the concrete pool including a recirculating pump to conserve water, benches, and a drinking fountain. Future plans include installation of the Rhododendron Royalty Hand Prints in this park. II -Parks January, 1999 II -6 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN A storm drainage infiltration facility was installed under the fountain area for future anticipated storm water conveyance systems on Washington Street. Sidewalks and curbs will be built when the storm water drainage plan for Washington Street is implemented. 10. BELL TOWER: Built in 1890, the tower was historically used for fire calls. Its 0.1 acre site has benches for viewing the spectacular vistas of Port Townsend Bay and the downtown district. The Bell Tower was painted in 1994 by the Jefferson County Historical Society. 11. TYLER STREET STAIRS: This is a stairway connecting Washington Street to Downtown Tyler Street. The 0.1 -acre steeply sloping site features benches for casual socializing and low maintenance landscaping. 12. ROTARY PARK: This 0.1 acre "pocket park" next to the state ferry terminal, was built by the Rotary Club and is used principally by the ferry patrons. The park has picnic tables, benches, and a drinking fountain. The landscaping was designed and installed by the park staff in 1984. 13. GATEWAY (Triangle Mini -park I1): Purchased in 1990 with private funding this site was deeded to the City. In 1992 this park was landscaped around the existing willow tree using drought tolerant plantings. Low maintenance plant species that require no irrigation were the concept behind this passive -use park. It is intended to be a demonstration garden for the community, illustrating the idea of an aesthetically pleasing design that doesn't require much maintenance or dollars to make an appealing place to visit. Parking for the adjacent commercial area was included in the design. 14. TRIANGLE MINI -PARK III: This 0.1 -acre triangular park was purchased in 1985 and is maintained by Washington Mutual Bank. Lacking any amenities this space serves as a pedestrian island at the signaled intersection. 15. MASTER GARDENERS' DAHLIA DEMONSTRATION GARDEN (Triangle Mini -park 1): Originally planted in 1989 by a few individuals, this 0.1 -acre triangular park enhances the Sims Way entrance to the City. Volunteers from Master Gardeners plant flowers and maintain this site through the growing season. 16. KAH TAI LAGOON NATURE PARK: This park is an 80 acre natural area located in the center of Port Townsend. It encompasses 25 acres of open water, 15 acres of wetlands, and 40 acres of uplands. It is a brackish wetland on the Pacific Flyway and is used for waterfowl nesting, resting, and feeding. It is a unique natural facility creating a dramatic and arresting entry to Port Townsend. Long standing community interest in maintaining the Lagoon as a natural area and wildlife habitat culminated in the creation of the park in 1985 with matching grant assistance from Washington State Interagency Commission for Outdoor Recreation (IAC). Prior to that, in 1981, acquisition grants from IAC and the United States Department of the Interior combined with local land donations, 30 year leases from the Port of Port Townsend, Jefferson County, and the Jefferson County Public Utility District enabled the purchase of private lands and the consolidation of publicly owned land around the lagoon. II -Parks January, 1999 II -7 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Based on public surveys in 1975 and 1979 and on an intensive public planning process conducted by the Parks Commission in 1982, a Master Plan for Kah Tai was developed with-State grant funds. The Master Plan contains the following criteria: • Preserve the lagoon and surrounding lands as a natural area. • Protect and encourage waterfowl nesting and use. • Enhance wildlife habitat using native species. • Provide walking and jogging trails compatible with the wildlife habitat. • Provide handicap access to some of the eastern perimeter of the lagoon. • Develop an interpretive center and limited observation stations on the northern side of the lagoon. In 1983 an IAC development grant was received to assist with the development of Phase I. This included creation of an inlet and island; creation of berms; planting of trees and shrubs; construction of walking and jogging paths, picnic shelter, exercise course, restrooms, and a parking lot. Construction was done primarily by volunteers (75% of the City's share of development was met by donations of money, materials, and labor). This phase was completed in 1986. Since then, activity has consisted of further berm construction along Sims Way; planting and maintenance of vegetative buffers along the south, west, and east park boundaries; planting of native species within the park to enhance and protect wildlife values; and monitoring salinity and water quality of the lagoon. These projects are ongoing and are being carried out by a group of volunteers in consultation with the City Parks Department. Current CIP projects include replacement of playground equipment in Kah Tai Lagoon Park. Elements of the master plan yet to be implemented include preservation of inholdings and adjoining properties. At risk is the land on the southeastern corner of the park and along the north side of the park off of 19th street. Developed access to the eastern perimeter consistent with the "Americans with Disabilities Act' (ADA), limited observation areas on the northern side of the lagoon and development of an interpretive center remain at the concept stage. The Kearney Street improvements of 1995 provide water quality treatment in biofiltration swales. The master plan recommends the southeastern portion in private ownership to be purchased in order to provide additional fresh water wetland habitat. Because the lagoon sits at the bottom of a large drainage area it is subject to an unusual amount of water in the rainy season. There is an ongoing effort by the City to maintain the water quality by designing storm drainage systems that pre -treat the runoff before it enters the lagoon. The Jefferson Transit Authority constructed a "Park and Ride" facility in 1995 -6, that shares the western border of the park. There was considerable effort spent on assuring that the parking lot and associated activities would not adversely impact the park in terms of water runoff, increased traffic, and impacts to the wetland buffers. 17. PORT TOWNSEND MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE: This 55.7 acre, 9 hole golf course is leased by the City to a private operator. It includes a driving range and a clubhouse. This building houses the pro shop, restaurant facilities, and a public conference room. Two important sensitive II -Parks January, 1999 II -8 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN areas are located on the grounds: a 3 acre native prairie preserve (managed since 1988 by the Native Plant Society) and a 4 acre, spring fed, freshwater pond, associated wetland and buffers. Various arrangements have been reviewed on future management of the Golf Course. The 1987 lease signed in 1987 with Mike Early Golf Shops, Inc., anticipates that the tenant will operate the course until 2002. The Native Plant Preserve encompasses designated areas of native prairie plants and foliage. The public has access to these areas so long as they do not interfere with or obstruct the operation of the Golf Course. Access to and from these areas is limited to the City maintained street and parking lot. The Golf Course operator is expected to not disturb these areas in any way. No maintenance is to be performed in these areas without the written consent or direction of the Public Works Director except that the operator is responsible for clearing trash from these areas. Trees or tall shrubs or other obstructions that might shade the areas from the south have not been planted. No herbicides, pesticides, or fertilizers or irrigation are used on these areas. It is understood that the reserve areas are maintained and remain under the exclusive control of the City, or its employees, contractors, or other parties under the direction of the City and shall be available for viewing by members of the public. The City maintains the Golf Course Pond with the right to design and construct mitigation and storm drainage facilities in the general area of the pond as needed. Encroachment on the pond or its buffers is not allowed in any manner unless authorized by the City and Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) except for trash removal. The Golf Course Conference Center, built in 1988, was partially financed with Transient Accommodations Tax receipts. This conference center is operated by the tenant and is available to the public by booking and scheduling with the golf course operator. Use by City departments, officials, committees, etc., for City business is free of charge. The City paved the apron to the parking lot and the gravel areas around the clubhouse in 1995 as part of the lease agreement. During 1997 additional capital improvements were provided by the City including a new heat pump, and financial contribution to the clubhouse interior remodel. 18. SATHER PARK: This 4.9 acre park is located in the middle of a residential section of town. It is undeveloped with the exception of a series of trails. Covered with large firs, other native trees, and shrubs, it is also home to much of the wildlife found in the developed areas of the City. It serves as a green space buffer in a densely populated neighborhood. In August 1994, Jefferson County deeded to the City, a piece of property the size of one city block to the east of Sather Park. The County gave it to the City on condition that the City uses the area as an informal play field for the immediate neighborhood. This field receives frequent use by the neighborhood. The City regularly mows this parcel and clears brush from trails on the original parcel. 19. BOBBY McGARRAUGH PARK (formerly Cherry Street Park): This 2 acre park site, formerly a City owned gravel pit, sits in a south facing depression sheltering users from the wind. The park contains a grass area, picnic shelter and children's play equipment. In 1989 and 1990 an irrigation system and restroom were installed. Play equipment was replaced and a lawn play area II -Parks January, 1999 II -9 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN was established. Additional play equipment was installed in 1997. The park name was changed in 1996 to honor a City Parks Department employee, the late Bobby McGarraugh. 20. 35TH STREET PARK: Deeded to the City in 1995 by Jefferson County, this six acre parcel is in the planning stage. Designated as a play field, its design also includes parking, restrooms, a basketball court, and a children's play area. Some road improvements have been made to the site. Existing wetlands on site have complicated site design and stormwater management, delaying implementation of construction of improvements. Existing forested buffers will be protected around the perimeter of the site. 21. BISHOP PARK: This park, approximately 2.5 acres, consists mostly of a wooded ravine. Primitive trails wind along the ravine through the foliage and under the native trees. In 1990, two adjoining 40 x 100 foot lots were added to the park. Adjacent to Sims Way, this is the only City parkland in the rapidly developing southwest portion of town. This park will remain primarily "open space" with trails; no additional facilities are planned. 22. CITY ENTRANCE PARK: This landscaped site welcomes residents and visitors to Port Townsend. In 1988 additional land was added to the existing parcel for a total of 0.5 acre. This site is adjacent to the proposed forest corridor along the north side of Sims Way (SR20). 23. ELMIRA STREET PARK: This property was acquired in 1994 as a trade with the adjoining property owners who proposed a land swap. An unused city right -of -way was traded for a piece of property privately owned on the other side of the right -of -way, giving the neighborhood a 1 acre park at the end of the road and creating one contiguous piece of property for the property owners. Access is for foot traffic only to the bluff overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca. No improvements are planned for this park. 24. LARRY SCOTT MEMORIAL TRAIL: A section of abandoned railway grade was converted to a trail with terminus at the Port of Port Townsend Boat Haven and dedicated in September 1998. It could eventually extend all the way to Port Angeles providing one of the most scenic routes for alternative travel on the Olympic Peninsula. The entire system inside the city limits is 9.2 acres of designated open space along wetlands and shoreline of Port Townsend Bay. The City will initially be responsible for maintenance of only the trail terminus. The terminus will include a restroom with showers, benches, bike racks, interpretive signs and kiosk, lighting, and garbage cans. 24. RAILROAD TRANSFER SPAN: This is an abandoned facility stretching into Port Townsend Bay that was deeded to the City by the Port Townsend Paper Company in July, 1997. The Urban Waterfront Plan identifies this facility as a desirable feature for public access. The property transfer includes the 9.2 acre strip of waterfront along the railroad grade that will accommodate the Larry Scott Memorial Trail. The pier will be accessed from the Larry Scott Memorial Trail. Grant monies will be pursued to fund repairs needed to make it a safe and usable facility for the public. 25. THE PINK HOUSE: One of the oldest houses in the state of Washington, the Pink House was restored in 1996 and is leased out to private businesses. The yard is adjacent to the City Library. The parks department is responsible for lawn maintenance at this time. II -Parks January, 1999 II -10 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Park Property in City ownership in 1998 = 74.6 acres Park Property maintained in 1998 = 59.3 acres Developed Acres per Capita = 6.9/1000 Total Acres per Capita = 8.7/ 1000 1996 Comprehensive Plan Adopted Acres per Capita Level of Service = 7.6 / 1000 ADDITIONAL FACILITIES In addition to the properties operated and maintained by the City of Port Townsend, there are several other facilities that provide important and diverse recreational services to the community. They are described in this special section because of the unique management and ownership considerations they entail. These additional public facilities are a crucial consideration in establishing level of service standards for parks and recreation availability to residents of the City at the present time. The City parks do not provide facilities for formal athletic or recreation programs. Currently the City uses Port Townsend School District facilities through cooperative agreements to house the City Recreation Program. The four school properties and three county park facilities are not been included in the establishment of service areas while recognizing the services these facilities offer within some neighborhoods. 26. JEFFERSON COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS: The Fairgrounds offer a number of public use buildings, as administered by the Fair Board. 27. NORTH BEACH PARK: The 1 acre of waterfront is one of the few public access beaches on the north end of the Quimper Peninsula. It is an excellent beachcombers' starting point for walks in either direction. The park adjoins Fort Worden State Park making this park a popular destination for hikers. The site includes mowed grass, restrooms, picnic shelter, water, and parking. Jefferson County maintains this facility. 28. FORT WORDEN STATE PARK CONFERENCE CENTER: Fort Worden was built at the turn of the last century as a military complex. The park grounds include the fort complex and parade grounds, over two miles of beautiful beach on the Strait of Juan de Fuca, trails through forests to labyrinthine gun batteries, a boat launch, moorage facilities, and many scenic picnic sites. Eighty full - service campsites complete the overnight accommodations. The park has been designated a National Historic District and a National Historic Landmark. The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission restored the facilities as a conference center for use by educational, arts, business and family groups. Thirty -three units of recreational housing, most in renovated officers quarters are available for conferences or individually as vacation rentals. Three dormitories can accommodate up to II -Parks January, 1999 II -11 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 365 in barracks and dormitory style rooms. Twenty -nine meeting rooms with capacities from 10 to 300 people, a 280 seat theater and 1,400 seat performing arts pavilion are also available. Food service and catering are provided on -site and the dining hall seats 410. Fort Worden State Park and Conference Center Facts: Area - 433.56 acres 11, 020 feet of saltwater shoreline on Admiralty Inlet and the Strait of Juan de Fuca 92 Buildings with 570, 000 sq. ft. floor space 1996 Visitations: 1, 220, 000 day visits 60, 000 overnight visitors to camp area. The Olympic Rhododendron Society demonstration garden, planted in 1989 for the State Centennial celebration, displays over 700 specimens of Rhododendron and related species. The Commanding Officer's House Museum has exhibits that show a Victorian military officer's lifestyle. The Coast Artillery Museum interprets the history of Washington's Coastal Defense sites, and the Port Townsend Marine Science Center has marine life touch tanks and exhibits. The Marine Science Center offers summer camp sessions, conducts informative programs, and educational beach walks. Fort Worden State Park is also home to Centrum, a nationally recognized non - profit arts and education foundation which sponsors and conducts workshops, festivals, residential arts programs and performances at the conference center. 29. MEMORIAL FIELD: Jefferson County owns and maintains this playfield facility. This 4.9 acre facility has bleachers, restrooms, and lighted multiple -use playfields for soccer, football, and baseball. Several other events throughout the year are staged there such as the Classic Car Show and the Rhododendron Festival Carnival. 30. THE PORT TOWNSEND COMMUNITY CENTER: Situated on one city block of land, this 17,708 square foot Jefferson County facility offers space for uses such as dance lessons and performances and meeting spaces for all ages. Formerly the site of Port Townsend High School, the gymnasium is used for sports events as well as regular open gym hours. The building houses the Senior Center and Senior Nutrition Program serving meals daily. It also houses the recreation room for youth. The landscaped grounds provide several picnic tables and a recently remodeled playground. 31. ROTHSCHILD HOUSE: Built in 1868, this house was deeded to Washington State in 1959. The House is furnished in period style and is open seasonally for tours. 32. COURTHOUSE PARK: Adjacent to the Jefferson County Court House and maintained by Jefferson County on one city block, this park offers stunning views of Port Townsend Bay and the Olympic Mountains, an informal grass playfield, one tennis court, and one basketball court. II -Parks January, 1999 II -12 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN This park provides important open space and recreation facilities to the densely populated neighborhood. PORT TOWNSEND SCHOOL DISTRICT FACILITIES: All of Port Townsend School District's building and playgrounds are located within the City limits. The facilities available at the schools are listed below. 33. Port Townsend High School 34. Blue Heron Middle School 35. Mountain View Intermediate School and Swimming Pool 36. Grant Street Elementary School Gymnasiums: Port Townsend High School has a gymnasium of regulation size. Extensive improvements were made in 1983 -84, adding a warm -up gym and replacing the gym floor. In 1994 more work was done to the gymnasium adding another set of bleachers and replacing the floor. Blue Heron School has a full size gymnasium with bleachers and locker and shower rooms. Mountain View also has a gymnasium. Both are used for physical education classes and recreation league games. The Grant Street Elementary School has a small gym but no locker or shower facilities. These four gyms are heavily used for school, city and private recreational programs. Pool: The school district has an indoor swimming pool that is used by City and County residents, the school, and the Port Townsend Swim Team, all under the management of the City's Recreation / Pool Department. The pool is available for private parties on an hourly reservation basis. Improvements to the pool's heating system and shower rooms were made in 1984. In early 1995, the tile in the pool and the gutters around the pool were replaced. The area around the pool was repainted and the decking outside was painted. A filtration system was added and the chlorination system was upgraded. A pH balance system was installed. These improvements were made by the school district using the district building bond for funding. The City made various additional improvements to the pool including construction of a small sauna. Track / Field: Blue Heron School's new regulation size all weather track with football field has an irrigation system and electronic scoreboard. Built in 1995, the long -range plans for the track and field are to add lighting and bleachers so the high school can use the field for games. There is a rough graded undeveloped field behind the school that is large enough to accommodate two baseball fields and /or one soccer field. In 1994 the high school added dugouts and reconditioned a regulation size baseball field and a minor league practice field. The Port Townsend Little League constructed three softball fields at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds. Playgrounds: New play equipment and surfacing were installed at Mountain View and Grant Street schools in 1994. Tennis: In 1971 the district built two regulation tennis courts at the Mountain View Elementary School which are open to the public though somewhat deteriorated. In 1994, four courts were II -Parks January, 1999 11 -13 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN constructed at Port Townsend High School. In addition to the school facilities there are two well- maintained courts at Fort Worden State Park, as well as one court at Courthouse Park. 37. MONROE STREET BOAT RAMP; launching access for small craft at the foot of Monroe Street. 38. POINT HUDSON: Originally a Coast Guard Training Center, Point Hudson is now owned by the Port of Port Townsend. This facility has a number of amenities in a unique historic setting. There are 59 RV sites, and a 25 -room motel. There are 62 boat slips, with more available along the West Dock. Point Hudson also provides a boat launch facility for small craft. The Point Hudson Master Plan was completed in the mid 1990's. The City supports development of Point Hudson, in conjunction with the proposed Maritime Heritage Center. 39, 40. PORT OF PORT TOWNSEND: Providing substantial recreational facilities throughout the City of Port Townsend, the Port of Port Townsend operates marinas for commercial and recreational boaters in the Boat Haven at the Port Townsend Shipyard and at Point Hudson. These facilities together offer over a mile of beach and waterfront access, jetties, walkways, boat launch ramps and boatyard parks. The Port also supports recreational facilities through land leases at Kah Tai Lagoon Park, beach access and boat launch ramps at Fort Worden, the Larry Scott Memorial Trail easement, and future development of the Waterwalk along vacated Washington Street. The Port estimates it has nine other recreational projects with total value of $1.9 million planned for the next six years. OTHER FACILITIES Golf: The City -owned 9 hole course is open to the public on a daily, year round basis. It is the only facility within the City limits. Chevy Chase, four miles west of Port Townsend, recently expanded to 18 holes. Port Ludlow Golf Course, 20 miles south of Port Townsend, also offers 18 holes. Both are open to the public. Health Facilities: Racquetball courts, exercise rooms, saunas, j acuzzi, free weights, weight machines, and aerobic classes are offered at several privately owned health clubs. Cultural Facilities: The City of Port Townsend has used Hotel/Motel tax revenue from the State of Washington to refurbish Pope Marine Park Building as a center for visual arts. The City also offers the conference facility at the Port Townsend Golf Course Clubhouse for public use. The citizens of Port Townsend and Jefferson County make use of the Port Townsend High School auditorium for social, dramatic, and musical events several times a year. Blue Heron Middle School has a public meeting space that is available for community use. It offers a public address system, theater -style lighting, and a room for food service. The gymnasium at Mountain View Elementary is used for orchestra /band concerts. Fort Worden State Park offers a theater and concert hall for public use in addition to the full service conference facility described above. The Jefferson County Fairgrounds has several buildings used regularly for theater and music productions. II -Parks January, 1999 II -14 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Boat Launches: The Port of Port Townsend maintains boat launches at Point Hudson and the Boat Haven. There is a boat launch with trailer parking at Fort Worden State Park. The City provides boat launch access at the foot of Monroe Street. Campgrounds (overnight parking): Fort Worden State Park, adjacent to the City, has 80 campsites open year round. Jefferson County Fairgrounds offers 70 improved campsites and 200 primitive sites available year -round except during fair week in mid - August. Bowling: Key City Lanes, a privately owned bowling alley. Roller Skating: Hot Wheels Roller Rink, a privately owned roller skating facility. PUBLIC ART Haller Fountain: Historic statue of Venus Rising from the Sea or Galetea was dedicated in 1906. The badly damaged pot metal sculpture was recast in bronze in 1993 through volunteer contributions. Chetzemoka Statue: In the summer of 1996 a bronze statue of Chief Chetzemoka was set on top of sentinel rock which overlooks the Port Townsend Golf Course. The statue honors Chetzemoka who, legend has it, helped the white settlers avert an attack from the local Indians by giving signals from the top of the rock. Ruth M. Jackson Bequest: Designed through a competitive process under the direction of the Washington State Arts Commission, the bequest required a sculpture be erected that could be viewed from the water. Also known as the Tidal Clock and Wave Viewing Gallery the sculpture was completed in 1987. The City constructed the sculpture in the street right of way along the waterfront overlooking Port Townsend Bay. The sculpture is an important place along the waterwalk adjacent to City Dock. Kah Tai Community Tiles: Designed by individual members of the community and led by artist Yvonne Pepin in 1985, the tiles represent the creatures and natural features that surround the Nature Lagoon Park. They are installed on the restroom wall near the park entrance. Seal Bench at Pope Marine Park: Created by artist Mike Ryan of Port Hadlock, the sculpture, carved from a driftwood log, rests at the edge of Port Townsend Bay in Pope Marine Park. Rhody Royalty Sidewalk: Continuing a tradition that began in 1960, each spring the designated royalty for the Rhododendron Festival place their hand prints and names in fresh cement in the sidewalk on Water Street. In recent years, due to safety concerns and wheelchair needs, the hand prints have been imprinted in moveable concrete blocks. The ultimate location for this display has yet to be determined. Memory, s Vault: Dedicated in 1988 at Fort Worden State Park near Randol Battery is a memorial walkway installation featuring the poetry of Sam Hamill. The installation honors veterans. II -Parks January, 1999 II -15 ON 0 �i �i v C� i.w C� �I H W F� ES a) N O C2 O d N C O U U U c co C Co U Co a) E O U a� co > N o co C N co 0 O U E 's= N a, E L Q II .. E N a) L y E O O O � L U N II II o" E U Co O a) O D �O O Y Co Co a) co d Y a) O L CO N E U •� co N Co c co N 'co N� E -- Co >, E L L 7 O 7 = N U o" a) U � co LO L M am Co LO C Co O N L R. co co a Co co co N C Q O O O N c O J 4 0 O (n o L cu °goo 0)N L a U U O CO CO > O CO `� N C O N •- U N c O r- iZ L6 a] Q L L a) a) 0) L CO y a) LL U cu (T =t� � c cz LO N N O N � N N .� — — — — � .� .� CN a) .� � .� N .� Y c c c c c c c c c c O O O O O O O O O O a a E a) L co L U L L 0) =' 'L 'L 'L 0 Og O N N O N L O O J m +� Y N L 06 N L U N L N L U LL 2 CO U N LU LU V ma U U U U U z C9 E E O E E Q O O Q E co O E co � O O O O co O Q co E Q Q N O a) OZ O Z Z Z Z O c Co Z O c Co Z Z Z Z c co Z Z O Z Z i = E = E E Y Co Co Co Co Co LL N a) co LO N LO O O N a) O 00 O O O O O O U Cf) M co U � O CA H Co co r— co Co — CO M M N LL co co LU co co co co co co co as .� m m m m 0 Cl. O 0 Q Co U 0� O co E . LU i .�, Cn O N N Cn N N 0 O N O Cn Un O N Cn y Lo O O CD N 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Cfl N O CA O co O O U a it _ E E E E co E_ E - -- > N c N V m Q "J � � N fC C E O n CO d O ~ +�+ CO N L O O O U a) . L M co O CO a) a) co a) ~ a) � _ a) J L = � p 0 Q '� CO U) "- CO Y :3 CU � �'^= O Y aai 0200 V) .� 2 CO 0- CO C) O L a) L cu +� U) ow "U= a Co >, Co a� �, o Co Co Co O co U N= co d O Y O "= C3 C CO m Q' ( D Y 0 (n 2 M m U W J d � UC7cn�U�QD2 . O O — N M I LO co 1,- C 0 (A O N M q 'o N M Cn Cfl � c6 CA -- — N N N N N N H a) N O C2 O d N C O U U U c co C Co U Co a) E O U a� co > N o co C N co 0 O U E 's= N a, E L Q II .. E N a) L y E O O O � L U N II II o" E U Co O a) O D �O O Y Co Co a) co d Y a) O L CO N E U •� co N Co c co N 'co N� E -- Co >, E L L 7 O 7 = N U o" a) U � co LO L M am Co LO C Co O N L R. co co a Co co co N C Q O O O N c O J 4 0 O (n o L cu °goo 0)N L a U U O CO CO > O CO `� N C O N •- U N c O r- iZ L6 a] Q L L a) a) 0) L CO y a) LL U cu (T =t� � c cz CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE II -2 MAP OTHER PARKS AND FACILITIES ACRES 26 Jefferson County Fairgrounds (Jefferson County) 27 North Beach County Park (Jefferson County) 1.0 28 Fort Worden State Park 433.56 29 Memorial Field (Jefferson County) 4.90 30 Port Townsend Community Center (Jefferson County) 1.00 31 Rothchild House (State Park) 32 Courthouse Park (Jefferson County) 1.00 33 Port Townsend High School 34 Blue Heron Middle School 35 Mountain View Intermediate School and Swimming Pool 36 Grant Street Elementary School Boat Launches: 37 Monroe Street 38 Point Hudson (Port of Port Towsend) 39 Boat Haven (Port of Port Townsend) 40 Fort Worden State Park II- parks.doc January, 1999 11 -17 Figure II -1 Comprehensive Plan Open Space and Parks with Existing Park Inventory School © Hospital 3 38 SO: LEGEND ----- Trail — Arterial Street City Limits Wetlands and Wet Areas 100 Year Flood Plain Potential Open Space 0 Commercial and Manufacturing 0 High Density Residential 0 Public and Parks rrry n17 PnT? T 1PnAXTKTC17 -KM TT -19 n n n Tre n ATTI D ran 1✓ n TTnAT M TATrlTTnAT n T DT n AT 1998 i. CC S■ CC y O H i. O O V M H W d H Cl) O o O E O m m O O m U O N m OU m O Q O Z m (� N N m s W > a Y O i � N (6 � 0 W i N 0 m 0 N rn O" O -o U E U c rn c Q L '±� N m ( >�06 (6 O E >> U !, U O O N U m O Z 7 i U) O U m C C- 7 O Q O O O N U) E L o _ U O N (6� O fns L m TO N O U + i U O Q Q T O O O O N O O -O C O O) O '— Q N N m � ;� C O O O Cl) W U_ ? U_ N (6 O Z L 7 m� O � U m L N O z O N s�� O N (�6 O O �� c- �_ O O Q m E W C m O 3 ��m U U m E O N U N N m O O N �� U in Q N-1 O N � +-� N (6 m U 0-0- m +` Q O O c- U CO O fn C .� m i W O O O O O O N O U O O O N Q + (n ry O N O m W of LU (n Q U _ N 'O TY+ _ U) co O U Cl) N O O _ N C — Cl) � 'E m I � i Z H H cu omC�UWH�CoLL O c c m J Y OU O Y O O -0-0 E U U) �a m m O U' R o Z 00 0� mLL m ��� ~ cn m �+ U E ~W Y >+ CO N L l4 C fn >1 O C Cl) m O mom —> U N L+N N o 0 W QT- m D cl) Umm co J >J O N � O c C. V L L � O ccaL +� t3 E E > U) oa� c `off QO za U �O `O c m c m m 0 U O) m N Q U) N 0 N E O m L U 7 O O m L U 7 O O N 7 m m U N Q O N L 0 C m N C m U) C m N O 0 m C O O m N O i O O U N 0) m c m m � m C � m N U U p� v U � O � a. ti CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE An estimation of the community's expectations for park appearance and cleanliness as well as staff knowledge of incomplete maintenance tasks can define level of expectations for operations and maintenance in the Parks Department. The estimated time park crews need to spend at each task in order to meet standardized park operations goals that meet the community's expectations for park appearance, cleanliness and response to complaints is used in the analysis of staffing needs and priorities. The increased park use by local residents and tourists, combined with the development of new high maintenance facilities has increased the operations and maintenance demands. In addition, the general maintenance demand of City -owned buildings has recently become the responsibility of the Parks Department placing increased pressure on the operation and maintenance resources of the Parks Department. OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE COSTS The present park budget is intended to provide basic O &M services for City Parks. Ongoing costs associated with operations and maintenance (O &M) of existing facilities described in the following section, are largely labor for the extensive grounds- keeping, facilities maintenance and equipment management. Combined with the development of new high maintenance facilities such as Union Wharf, and the general maintenance demands of older buildings such as City Hall, Pope Marine Building, the Library and the Police Station, demands on the existing parks crew are also increasing. This section provides analysis of the costs associated with operations and maintenance of existing parks and areas of concern that are not presently being addressed. Through this analysis, expected costs and issues associated with increased use and new park development can be estimated. Further, the budget process has not fully addressed all administrative needs, substantial repairs to or replacement of equipment or an annual set -aside for deferred facility maintenance. In addition, it does not allow for thorough evaluation of City trees and vegetation, making it difficult to develop an overall City tree program. The Parks Department also has responsibility for City street trees, even though most street tree work is performed by the Street Department and by donation from the Main Street Program. The existing parks that are maintained by City staff are shown in Table 11-1, Parks Inventory. The Park Crew Chief, under the Operations and Maintenance Manager, handles administration of the Parks Department. At this time a Public Works Assistant is shared by the Parks Department and other Public Works divisions. While the budgeted staffing level has remained constant for nine years, use and number of facilities has increased. 1997 FUNDING SUMMARY Total parks budget for 1997 $276,972 Subtract Construction of Projects for 1997 $ - 78,000 Operations and maintenance budget for 1997 $198,972 Total 1997 Population Estimate 8,580 II- parks.doc Janaury, 1998 11 -22 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Acres of City Park Included for Consideration 59.3 Dollars per population: $198,972 divided by 8,580 population = $23.10 /person /year or $23,190 per 1000 population Dollars per acre: $198,972 divided by 59.3 maintained acres = $3,355 /acre The cost per acre reflects the employee time needed to meet maintenance demands of the high intensity acreage shown in Table 11-1, Park Inventory. This is reflected in the average cost per acre estimates for maintenance (see box). For example Chetzemoka Park is a very high maintenance park requiring horticultural skills, tools, and equipment that are not needed for maintaining Bishop Park or Sather Park. High level intensity park $6,710 Example: Chetzemoka Park - Assume 200% of average for high intensity parks Medium level intensity park $3,355 Example: Kah Tai Lagoon Park - Assume $3,355 /acre is average Low level intensity park $1,174 Example: Sather Park - Assume 35% average costs for low intensity parks Average Costs per Acre: High Level $7,000 /acre Medium Level $3,500 /acre Low Level $1,200 /acre OERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE ANALYSIS The following assumptions are used by the Public Works Department to estimate needed staffing levels for operations and maintenance. The estimates include operations and maintenance needs for projected costs as the capital facilities plan is implemented. The projected costs are derived from the current maintenance activity analysis in Table 11-8. These estimations are reflected in annual budget requests. The Parks Department has three full time employees (FTEs) working twelve months per year. Two seasonal employees are hired for six months a year to make a total of four FTEs per year. Below are some examples of maintenance levels, using number of acres per employee. While the park inventory had not changed significantly over the past nine years, there has been an increase of 15.5 acres of park property in City ownership between 1994 and 1997. Specifically, the increase in high and medium maintenance facilities including City Dock, Pope Marine Building, Union Wharf, expanded Pope Marine Park, Adams Street Park, and the II- parks.doc Janawy, 1998 11 -23 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Skateboard Park requires additional time from the current staff. In addition, Larry Scott Memorial Trailhead Park (0.5 acres developed out of 9.2 acres) total and 35th Street Park (6 acres) will be brought into the maintenance schedule in 1999 or 2000. 1999: 74.4 acres divided by 4 FTE = 18.6 acres per FTE 1994: 59 acres divided by 4 FTE = 14.7 acres per FTE The comparison of acreage over time shows a 20% increase in acreage per FTE. There has been no corresponding increase in the park crew staff level. The calculation indicates that based on acre per employee, 3.85 FTE more are necessary to maintain 1994 acres / FTE level with the potential increase in developed park inventory. Assuming that the FTE staff was maximized in 1994 and the level of daily service given to the parks has not diminished it must be noted that other discretionary maintenance has been deferred at this time. The figure of 15 acres per employee reflects the approximate 1997 condition in developed acres. Maintenance needs for new facilities based on intensity of activities with the addition of another 6.5 acres of maintained facilities indicate the parks crew will be understaffed by 1 FTE. Additional seasonal help is still needed to offset increased visitation especially in the waterfront areas. An informal telephone survey of staffing levels in other cities was conducted in 1995. The results show that parks departments in similarly sized cities have staffing levels that would suggest Port Townsend could justify another seasonal employee since 1995 though no increases have been made. This staffing level has remained constant since 1990. The costs associated with this staffing level are shown in Table H -7, Park Expenditures. TABLE II -4 PARK EXPENDITURES II- parks.doc Janawy, 1998 11 -24 $-1991 %-1991 $- 1997 ' %,- 1997 Wages /Benefits $103,060 59% 142,748 51.5% Supplies 15,500 9% 16,300 5.9% Other Services 18,255 11% 5,084 1.8% Communication - Phone, etc. 1,725 1% 1,040 0.4% Travel 300 <1% 300 0.1% Public Utilities 5,000 3% 19,000 6.9% Repairs & Maintenance 2,200 1% 10,000 3.6% Equipment Rental /Depreciation 4,000 2% 4,000 1.4% Parks Advisory Board 3,150 2% 500 0.2% II- parks.doc Janawy, 1998 11 -24 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TOTAL 153,190 89% 198,972 72% Capital & Construction 18,000 11% 78.000 28% TABLE II -5. MAINTENANCE ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE Scheduled Maintenance Activities Frequency (&, Level of Service Total Time Required Current level of activity (additional time to meet level of service) (see definitions) FTE FTE FTE Administration daily 0.77 0.73 0.04 Building Maintenance weekly 0.56 0.06 0.50 Equpment Maintenace weekly 0.07 0.05 0.02 Facilities Maintenance weekly 0.60 0.58 0.02 General Parks Check daily 1.01 1.01 0.00 Golf Course weekly 0.06 0.01 0.05 Horticulture/Landscaping daily 1.45 1.17 0.28 Mowing seasonal 0.48 0.46 0.02 Parks - General Operation monthly 0.20 0.16 0.04 Parks - Vandalism monthly 0.12 0.10 0.02 Play Equipment weekly 0.09 0.05 0.04 Restroom Maintenance daily 0.18 0.14 0.04 Storm Cleanup seasonal 0.01 0.01 0.00 Trail Maintenance daily 0.13 0.05 0.08 Tree Pruning - street trees seasonal 0.15 0.02 0.13 Vegetation Removal seasonal 0.19 0.11 0.08 Weeding seasonal 0.14 0.10 0.04 subtotal 6.21 4.81 1.40 The current level of FTE activities 4.81 FTE to meet current level of service 6.21 Difference in FTE -1.40 Analysis of the Maintenance Activities is illustrated in Table 11 -8. It demonstrates the current percentage level of FTE activity and level of deferred FTE activity on common tasks. The II- parks.doc Janaury, 1998 11 -25 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN deferred level of maintenance indicated in Table H -8 is derived from analysis of current staff time spent in each activity and an assessment of the effort and activities need to complete the deferred tasks. As shown from this point of view, an increase of 1.36 FTE is needed to meet the current level of expectation for City parks operations and maintenance. This is consistent with the previous assessment of additional staff needs based on acreage and level of maintenance activity. ACTIVITY DEFINITIONS The following definitions of operations and maintenance activities have been developed to assist in categorization and assessment of the parks crew time costing as show in Table 11- 7. ADMINISTRATION - Includes duties such as customer relations, planning, supervision of the crews, crew training, purchasing, inventory control, time sheets, and oversight of park related activities, coordination with other City departments, provide staff support to the Parks and Recreation Commission. The Parks Department initiated, but has not completed, a preventative maintenance and work order system to improve efficiencies and allow better accounting of work activities. This system will help prevent park facilities from unnecessary neglect and deterioration. BUILDING MAINTENANCE - Painting, basic repairing, cleaning, and adding features or amenities such as automatic door locks, storm windows etc. EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE - Adjusting, cleaning, painting, replacing worn parts and general upgrading of hand mowers, line trimmers, air compressor, power washers etc. FACILITIES MAINTENANCE - Any repairing, painting, refurbishing or maintenance of park amenities or infrastructure such as the rose arbor, the irrigation systems, City Dock, and Union Wharf and public restrooms. GENERAL PARKS CHECK - Includes checking all parks every morning for trash, vandalism, safety, and cleanliness, and malfunctioning equipment or facilities. GOLF COURSE — Tree maintenance, general cleaning of perimeter, native prairie grass area, oversight of golf course plan and construction, and wetland issues. HORTICULTURE/LANDSCAPING — Installation of plants, beds borders, as well as fertilizing, grooming, watering, pruning, composting, all trees, shrubs, and flowers in the parks system. MOWING - Mowing and line trimming all turf areas and overgrown weeds on the edges of the parks. PARKS GENERAL OPERATION - Typically these are tasks that don't fall under any other heading. examples are safety flagging, bi- annual moving of the city dock and union wharf floating docks. II- parks.doc Janaury, 1998 11 -26 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN PLAY EQUIPMENT - Maintenance, repairs, and safety checks on all play equipment including benches and picnic tables. RESTROOM MAINTENANCE - Daily sanitizing, washing, repairing, replacing lights and broken fixtures in all restrooms in the parks system or public restrooms. SAFETY - The City Safety program is concentrating on safety needs throughout the City. Specific needs at this time within parks include 1) certification of all employees in pesticide application, hazardous materials handling, and equipment operation; 2) weekly safety meetings; and 3) general safety training. Publicly used facilities have been evaluated for safety concerns. Those items that are identified as potential safety concerns are generally dealt with through the Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The City's insurance authority makes annual visits and inspects and discusses with staff safety issues associated with parks. Improvements to meet ADA accessibility requirements are also necessary in some existing facilities. STORM CLEANUP - Clean and repair facilities, buildings, and plantings from storm damage, averaging one time per year. TRAIL MAINTENANCE - Clearing, grubbing, and top dressing any trail or path in the park system. TREE PRUNING - Thinning, and removal of dead, diseased, or damaged branches for safety, utility, and aesthetic reasons. includes planning and time spent dealing with the public and contractors regarding tree issues. VANDALISM - Repair or remove graffiti from any structure, vehicle, sign, play equipment, turf area, irrigation system, etc. VEGETATION REMOVAL - Clearing away and removal of any unwanted vegetation such as scotch broom, English ivy, and poison hemlock. WEEDING - Removal and controlling any unwanted plants in any flower bed or ornamental planting in the parks. II- parks.doc Janaury, 1998 11 -27 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE II -6 Current Operations and Maintenance Needs Adams Street OK Belltower OK Bishop Park Resolve storm drainage and sedimentation issues Chetzemoka Provide more time for horticulture tasks, retaining wall for beach access, stabilization of recent bluff slumping City Dock Provide more thorough maintenance i.e. tightening piling bolts and closer monitoring of activities Dahlia Demo Park OK Entrance OK Elmira OK Gateway Park OK Golden Age Club Provide general maintenance of grounds Golf Course Plant more trees, monitor wetland and golf activities Haller Fountain Provide aggressive vegetation removal and finish the sidewalk/curb & gutter, add benches Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park Provide park maintenance including removal of aggressive non - native species plants, scotch broom oison hemlock, thistle etc. Marine Park Provide path maintenance,and driftwood barrier under Pope Marine Building Mini Park II OK Pink House OK Rotary Park OK Skateboard Park Provide ramp maintenance, construct concrete ramps, coordinate volunteer activities Tyler Street Stairs Look at rebuilding the stairs Sather Park OK Tidal Park Coordinate citizen input, make modification to Tidal terrace and concrete wall Union Wharf Provide more thorough maintenance i.e. bolt tightening, and closer monitoring of activities II- parks.doc Janaury, 1998 II -28 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN OTHER FACILITIES Jefferson County provided the following figures regarding annual operations and maintenance costs for Memorial Field and the Port Townsend Community Center. Both of these facilities within the City limits are described above. The City and County are discussing options that may include property transfer to City ownership and operation of some of these facilities. Memorial Field Existing County FTEs = 2.0 Budget is $49,700 /year $49,700/4.9 acres = $10,143 /acre Port Townsend Community Center County FTEs to operate facility = 1.8 Budget to operate facility is $72,200 /year FINANCING Golf Course: 9 holes, 55.7 acres 1 Professional Golfer 1.5 Maintenance person - summer 0.5 Maintenance — winter 1 Green fees, shop person The Parks Department relies mostly on tax supported revenues for its funding which must be balanced with all other Departments. Funding is therefore limited and opportunities for developing a fully adequate parks program must come from other sources of revenue. There are minor revenues associated with user fees for City Dock, Pope Marine Building and Chetzemoka Park. Most of the capital monies come from both of thel /4 of 1 % Real Estate Excise Tax (BEET) revenue sources. Large projects like Union Wharf receive various grant funding from state agencies especially from the Department of Natural Resources and the Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation (IAC). Most of the smaller projects are funded by BEET. The stormwater utility fund purchases property for stormwater and water quality purposes. These properties double as open space or passive park and recreation facilities in addition to their primary purpose of drainage control. The 1996 expected capital coats of $791,084 were not spent directly, largely due to land donations and acquisitions through cooperative agreements. Revisions to the Capital Facilities Plan since 1996are recommended in Section VI, Recommendations, Action Plan, based on a change in the level of service that addresses the equitable distribution of facilities throughout the City. Additional potential funding sources are discussed in Section VI also. Replacement /Depreciation - A fund does not exist for facilities. Eventual replacement of and repairs and improvements to the many costly facilities that the City owns and manages will be necessary. Such facilities needing replacement or repair funding include Union Wharf, City Dock, Pope Marine Building, and Chetzemoka Park building. Other existing capital improvements including all existing restroom facilities and irrigation systems will also need repair and replacement. II- parks.doc Janawy, 1998 11 -29 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE II -7 REET breakout for $ 1997 expenditures Transfer to Park Fund 83,500 New City Hall Annex 15,000 (existing police) City Hall upgrade 20,000 Fire Hall remodel 34,000 Downtown Parking 10,625 Facility(1st of 4 years) Community Center 25,000 debt service Library structural 10,000 Streets 65,000 Bike /Pedestrian 35,000 TOTAL 298,125 II- parks.doc Janamy, 1998 I1 -31 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE II -8 Park & Rec Revenue 1997 $ Park Interest 200 Lease /Rent 7,500 Sports Fees 38,150 Donation Skateboard Fac. 2,500 Park Bldg Rental 3,000 Swim Fees 58,300 Reservation Donation 7,000 School District 10,150 Moorage 3,000 $ from REET for CIP 83,500 PT Swim Team 5,400 Retail Sales Tax 137,517 Property Tax 144,047 TOTAL 500,264 Reservation Donation 1% School District 2% Moorage 1% $ from REET for CIP 17% Retail Sales Tax 27% II- parks.doc Janamy, 1998 11 -32 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE II -9 Current Expenses 1997 budget Attorney BCD Finance Administration Clerk, Mayor Other Police Fire, EMS Contracts Contingency Streets Library Recreation Pool Parks TOTAL 212,464 514,304 171,395 94,602 159,117 46,717 1,040,108 753,437 307,395 244,857 396,380 387,491 84,764 131,159 198,972 4,743,162 Pool Recreation 3% 2% Streets 8% Contingency 5% Contracts 6% Fire, EMS 16% Parks 4t;b �n II- parks.doc Janawy, 1998 11 -33 Attorney 4% Administration 2% _Clerk, Mayor 3% Other 1% CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN III. RECREATION & POOL *INTRODUCTION * HISTORY & EXISTING CONDITIONS * * LEVEL OF SERVICE ANALYSIS * * OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE * * FINANCING * "If a child is to keep alive his inborn sense of wonder without any such gift from the fairies, he needs the companionship of at least one adult who can share it, rediscovering the joy, excitement, and mystery of the world we live in." - Rachel Carson III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 lll -1 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN STATEMENT OF PURPOSE FOR RECREATION The purpose of the Recreation Division of the Department of Public Works is: • To develop recreation activities, programs, and facilities that are responsive to the needs and interests of the City of Port Townsend residents. • To follow the direction given in the City Comprehensive Plan through the adopted goals and policies. • To develop a revenue and expense budget for recreation that provides adequate and realistic funding for providing recreational and pool activities for the community. • To develop revenue sources that include property and sales tax, user fees, and donations that adequately fund a recreation program. • To develop a program fee schedule that provides a significant amount of the costs of specific programs. • To regularly seek public involvement and input into recreation programs. • To continually pursue cooperative efforts, joint project development, and long range planning with other governmental agencies. To work on maintaining, enhancing, and expanding partnerships to provide recreational services. • To work with the Parks & Recreation Commission on policies related to recreation programs and facilities. III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 111-3 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN INTRODLiCTION A snapshot of the City of Port Townsend Recreation Program shows the dual role of the City, a primary provider of recreation services as well as coordinator of facility use and activity schedules in cooperation with other agencies and organizations. The City programs encourage life -long development of skills and interests within the unique opportunities of our local setting. The City programs reflect the recreation preferences of the community on all levels and for all age groups. The Recreation and Pool Programs continue to strive for a level of service that meets the needs of the community through a variety of agency and cooperative opportunities. The Recreation Program has developed the following mission statement: The Recreation Division is committed to enhancing the quality of life in the community of Port Townsend. Its facilities and programs are designed and operated to provide opportunities which enrich the physical, mental, and social life of citizens of all ages. Recreational facilities and cultural programs, managed creatively and safely, broaden individual human potential and contribute to a highly aesthetic environment which is essential to a healthy society. The key components of the City recreation program are the After School Program, Summer Enrichment Camp and Mountain View Swimming Pool offering a variety of swim programs. Here children are exposed to a broad range of experiences in a safe, well supervised, and caring environment. This community believes that learning is fun and exciting and should not stop when the school bell rings. However, it is difficult to measure the community, s effect on children. The benefits of the After School Program and Summer Enrichment Camp are both immediate and concrete as well as long term and subtle. Over time we may be able to measure improved test scores and examine youth crime statistics to reinforce the positive role these services provide. In addition to program development the City works in partnership with the School District providing a community recreation program to maximize facility use and share administrative costs. The After School Program and Summer Enrichment Camp offer children an opportunity to flex their intellectual, artistic, scientific, and cultural muscles as well as their physical ones. The Recreation Department identified the need for non - traditional youth activities and activities other than team sports as a basis for program development. The City will continue to focus on providing activities such as these programs for youth. In a community surrounded on three sides by water, water sports and activities on water are a continual focus for residents and visitors. The marine trades, sport and commercial fishing, and III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 111-4 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN tourism industries depend on this aquatic focus. There are two marinas in the City that offer opportunities for sailing, kayaking, boating and commercial employment. These considerations insure interest in a comprehensive swimming program offered to all residents. The Mountain View Pool owned by the Port Townsend School District and operated by the City of Port Townsend provides swimming and water safety classes. While youth needs are important to respondents of the 1996 Parks and Recreation Survey, respondents indicated that senior needs can be better served than at present. Demographic data indicates the population is aging. City programs need flexibility as demand changes. Walking and hiking continue to top the activity list of City residents, especially those over 40 years old. Continuing to plan for beach access along the Waterwalk; providing non - motorized trails that link parks, schools, and business districts; and establishing open space corridors throughout the City are important focus items for facility development through the Public Works Department. The City directly sponsors bicycle safety and other programs through the Recreation Program. The City continues to create and expand program opportunities that support these recreational preferences. Experience demonstrates ongoing needs for gymnasium space, soccer, and softball fields. The Port Townsend High School biennial sports preference survey (1996) shows sports preferences change over time but total participant numbers stay about the same for high school students. The current trend is toward more soccer, more individual sports, and physical activities that are less competitive. The school district covers the demand for team sports well. The District allows all students to participate in seasonal sports programs. While players are chosen for team position by skill level, a "no cut" policy gives each student that meets grade and citizenship eligibility requirements a place on the team. This translates into a large participation rate and higher demand for staff, fields, and courts. Competing for court and field facilities are increasing numbers of adult recreation leagues playing soccer, basketball, volleyball, and baseball. While the school district increased field and gymnasium space with the opening of Blue Heron Middle School, field space is still seasonally limited. The time needed for maintenance and recovery limits the use each field can withstand. Population growth will continue to increase the demand on existing facilities for youth and adult programs. The City intends to anticipate these needs and develop proactive strategies to provide park and recreation facilities in partnership with other agencies and organizations in the community. Demand for a variety of recreation programs in the community is clearly on a continuous rise. Expansion of the City program will increase staffing needs as well as require a continued search for additional facilities. Programming increases will also impact the Public Works administrative organization and its ability to maintain adequate level of service standards in existing facilities. III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 111-5 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN HISTORY AND EXISTING PROGRAMS There have been many attempts throughout Port Townsend' s history to create and maintain an active recreation department for youth, adults, and seniors. In 1973 a recreation department was established by the Port Townsend School District in cooperation with the City of Port Townsend and Jefferson County. In 1978, Jefferson County assumed leadership of the recreation program and created a recreation division. An intergovernmental agreement existed between the City and the County to operate the program to include City residents. The City paid an increasing amount of money to the County for operating the recreation program including the Mountain View Swimming Pool. This amount grew to approximately $25,000 per year in 1994 when the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners decided to discontinue operation of the swimming pool and other recreation programs which predominately involved residents of the City. In January of 1995, the City of Port Townsend opted to provide its own recreation program. Port Townsend saw this as an opportunity not only to provide the standard T -ball and swim sessions, but to create programs with a fresh approach that addressed the very diverse needs of this community. The number one priority in the 1991 Park Plan was to provide activities for youth. Offering a number of diverse activities can allow children to exercise their creative and intellectual abilities as well as their athletic skills. Within a relatively short amount of time the City set up a comprehensive approach. A large part of the focus for this approach has been the After School and Summer Enrichment Camp programs. It was determined that the recreation program and the pool operation would be together in a single division of the Public Works Department under the direction of the Public Works Director. Temporary staff were hired to operate the pool for the month of January 1995. Efforts were then made during the spring of 1995 to hire a permanent, half -time pool manager and a permanent recreation director at one quarter time. The City hired employees in the spring of 1995. The budget developed in mid -1995 allowed for the Recreation Director and Pool Manager to become full time, management employees with benefits by January 1, 1996. Staffing also increased dramatically to provide for the many programs offered. Since recreational facilities are mostly owned by the Port Townsend School District, contracts were negotiated to formalize a partnership approach to community recreation and pool operation. Contracts include: • City management of the Mountain View Swimming Pool • City management of the swimming program as an element of the elementary school curriculum • City provision of an after school program focused on grades 6 -8 and expanded to K -8, including an office at Blue Heron Middle School for the Recreation Director • City use of school facilities for recreation programs III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 111-6 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN While offering a broad base of activities, these programs focus on those sometimes forgotten years of the pre - teen/early teen -aged kids. In many ways these are the most vulnerable years as well as the years most parents begin to leave their children unsupervised. A recent study(see Appendix -) reported that most teen pregnancies and juvenile crimes occurred weekdays between the hours of 3:00 and 6:00 PM. Additional concern arises since the School District estimates that about 40% of the student population is "at risk" based on income, and family characteristics. The at -risk children are defined as those children who come from homes: 1) on Welfare Assistance; 2) with teen -aged parents; and /or 3) where there is drug or alcohol abuse. The recreation and pool programs are supported through a collaborative effort by the Port Townsend School District, community organizations, area businesses, grants, and fundraisers as well as the city budget. The school district provides office space for the Recreation Director at Blue Heron Middle School, the facilities for many of the activities, and scholarships for the Summer Enrichment Camp. Many businesses have donated goods, services, and money. The Summer Enrichment Program has been a recipient of the Seafirst Foundation Grant. The Recreation Program has received the 1997 Association of Washington Cities Municipal Achievement Award. AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM: The after school program is meeting a well - defined need for youth services in this community. Through the After School Program, the city provides a variety of activities for students in quarterly sessions. Finding hidden resources in the community is an important component of the program. For example, drama, fencing, bridge, American Sign Language, and intramural track and field have been offered during the past year, exposing children to a rich diversity of activities at low cost. The After School Program also offered activities such as habitat study, Aikido, mural painting, rhythm class, yearbook, co -ed intramural soccer and softball, running and conditioning, water games, floor hockey, French cuisine and language, and basic first aid. The mission behind these programs is to provide fun, interesting, and educational activities for children and pre -teens in a safe, well - supervised atmosphere. The After School Program started in the late fall of 1995 for grades 6 -8. Sixty -eight children participated in 1995 with a participation growth rate of 698% through 1997. The after school programs are priced to cover instructors and materials. The space for the programs and some of the program costs are subsidized by the Port Townsend School District. Representative prices for programs in 1997 were as follows: $10.00 (bicycle safety course), $15.00 (intramural softball, fencing, Aikido), $20.00 (sign language, rhythm class). SUMMER ENRICHMENT CAMP: There are three sessions of Summer Enrichment Camp each year. The camp is limited to 44 campers per session and includes children with special needs as well as children whom school counselors have identified as at -risk. Each session has Washington State certified teachers, instructors, instructional aids, and volunteers. Each session has a theme developed by the teachers. Themes allow teachers to cross III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 111-7 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN all subjects and encompass history, sociology, athletics, dance, drama, and art. Past sessions have included themes such as the Summer Olympics, Medieval Age, "historic" Port Townsend, and Africa. The tuition ranges from $130 - $140 for a two week session. One week sessions are available for $80.00 a week as space permits. There are about 40 half - tuition scholarships made available each summer. MOUNTAIN VIEW SWIMMING POOL: The Mountain View Pool is the only public swimming pool in Jefferson County. In February 1995, Port Townsend School District, owner of the pool facility, began major repairs to the pool which was out of service until May of 1995. The pool program restarted after the pool reopened in May and includes open swims, lap swims, water safety, and age and skill based lessons. In cooperation with the schools, elementary children are provided basic water skills beginning in kindergarten as part of the school curriculum. The pool program offers classes in water safety instruction and lifeguard certification and is home to the Port Townsend Swim Team. The swim program provides services such as lap swimming, swim therapy, and aerobic exercise in conjunction with the Jefferson General Hospital wellness program. The pool offers a master swimmers class and is used for kayak lessons in a safe, controlled environment. The facility is also available to reserve for private group use. The contractual relationship with the school district that was established in 1995 continues to the present. A contractual relationship also exists with the Port Townsend Swim Team (PTST) for the City to provide a program and coach(es) for this swimming program. The swim team is an important component of the city pool management program in that it often provides for a talent pool of lifeguards and water safety instructors. 1996-1997. Mountain View Swimming Pool Usage City - 75% County —25% The following figures reflect actual pool use. • Lap Swim Pool capacity = 15 people or 3 people per lane One hundred ninety -eight times during 1996, 15 or more people signed up for lap swimming. There are three sessions per day. The Lap Swim Program exceeded capacity during approximately 23% of the schedule. • Recreation Swimming Pool capacity = 100 people Two times during 1996, 100 people signed up for recreation swimming. III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 111-8 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN These figures indicate, based on actual use, the facility demand rarely reaches the available capacity. Over - demand for specifically identified programs such as lap swimming appear to be related to scheduling changes. Using the relative use figures between City and County residents as a basis, and assuming 100% of the City population, 8,500, uses the pool while constituting 75% of the users, the total current user population base is estimated to be 12,000. To reflect the excess capacity, the figure of 15,000 assumes an additional 25% capacity is available during regular scheduling. The City is using 1/ 15,000 population for the level of guidance for this facility. TABLE III -1 Participation Rates for Various Field Programs 1995 -1997 Port Townsend Little League participation: Jefferson County Soccer League: 1995 -300 1996-275 1995-380 1997-250 1996-420 1997-450 City T -Ball Coed Recreation Softball League: 1995 - 60 children 60 1995 - children 1997 - 26 teams (maximum field space) 1997 - 110 children - 390 adult participants (maximum program can handle with available facilities) VOLLEYBALL attracts 15 -20 players weekly Tuesday and Friday evenings in the Blue Heron Gym in winter and spring. CITY T -BALL offers beginning softball for 5, 6, and 7 year -old children. There were 100 participants in 1997. Grant Street playfields have capacity for 8 teams. 1997 sign -up created 10 teams leaving the facility 20% over maximum capacity. BASKETBALL programs consistently fill all other gymnasium time and space in the winter season. These programs range from September through April for school and City recreation programs. Various children' s leagues, a women' s program and open gym scheduling fill the facilities throughout the year. OTHER COMMUNITY PROGRAMS: Despite recent decreases in Little League Baseball participation, demand for field sports is increasing for both youth and adult leagues. Soccer participation seems to be increasing through a variety of programs including the City and Jefferson County coed youth recreation programs, high school men's and women' s teams, and the informal adult team. III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 111-9 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Coed Recreation Softball League for adults was limited to 26 teams in the spring of 1997. Additional teams were turned away for lack of available field time. The 26 teams had 15 players each for a total of 390 participants in 1997. The league used Memorial Field. Fees were collected to cover field rental and insurance. The informal "Soccer Club" moved indoors to the Blue Heron Middle School Gym in early 1997 with 12 -20 players turning out in the evenings for the weekly informal games. The club' s outdoor games continued on Sunday afternoons with 12- 20 players. This group continues to use whatever outdoor field is available and changes with the seasons as grass surfaces deteriorate with continuous use. RECREATIONAL FACILITIES As discussed in Section 11 Parks, the National Recreation and Parks Association developed park and recreation facilities standard recommendations in 1983 in Recreation, Park and Open Space Standards and Guidelines. The publication of those standards stressed that the recommendations were to be used as a guide representing minimum not maximum goals for most communities. Most of the parks and recreation plans developed in the 1990's in the Puget Sound region use these standards as a beginning basis to develop local standards. The NRPA revisited and revised the use of numerical standards based on the individuality of each community and recommends communities adopt a systems approach to planning as presented in Park, Recreation, Open Space, and Greenway Guidelines, NRPA 1995. These national guidelines state that the selection of a numerical guideline can be intuitively arbitrary or as mathematically precise as possible or somewhere in between. The NRPA recommends that the level of service (LOS) be practicable and achievable while providing equal opportunity for access to all citizens and reflect changes in level of demand for recreation resources. RECREATIONAL FACILITIES ANALYISIS This is the first attempt to analyze the level of service of recreation facilities available within the City. For the purposes of this functional plan the City of Port Townsend used a combination of numerical assessment and community input to develop an intuition of community demand. The availability of recreational facilities in Port Townsend is shown in Figure III -2. The approach this plan uses is to compare the National Guidelines and Washington State averages with the current availability of facilities in Port Townsend. While the 1996 Comprehensive Plan adopted a level of service for park facilities based on acres per capita, no LOS was adopted for recreational facilities. This was a realistic approach as the initial Comprehensive Plan analysis for parks focused on City -owned park land only and none of the public recreational facilities within the City are owned by the City of Port Townsend. The recreational facilities shown in Table III -2 are primarily owned by other agencies though some are operated by the City through cooperative agreements. The functional plan is addressing in greater detail, the development of planning and management standards for recreational facilities. III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 I11-10 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE III -2 Public Recreation Facilities Summary Facility (1) Existing Facilities per Level of WA NRPA Population Service Average INDOOR SWIMMING POOL (2) 1/12,000 = 0.08/ 1,000 1115,000 1/10,000 FORMAL MULTIPLE USE FIELDS (3) 1/2,830 1/3,000 1/3,000 • PT High School 3/ 8,500= 0.35/ 1,000 • Memorial Field • Blue Heron Middle School GYMNASIUMS w/ Showers GOLF COURSE 9/holes BOAT LAUNCHES TENNIS COURTS (4) • Fort Worden • PT High School • Courthouse Park 3/ 8,500 = 0.35/ 1,000 1/2,800 1/ 8,500 = 0.12/ 1,000 1/8,000 4/ 8,500 = 0.47/ 1,000 1/2,000 7/ 8,500 = 0.82/ 1,000 1/1,200 1/3,200 115,000 1/17,000 1/25,000 1/2,000 1/2,000 1. Facilities other than these are not considered for level of service analysis in the City of Port Townsend. 2. Mountain View Pool capacity estimates are explained in the Pool text. 3. Memorial Field provides field space for one adult or two junior events and is counted here as one full size field. 4. The Tennis Courts at Mountain View School are not maintained for league play at this time and are not included in the level of service calculation. If preserved for future improvements it could absorb effects of growth and continue to meet this service standard Facility satisfaction was assessed in the 1996 Parks and Recreation Survey and is described in Section IV, Process. These results indicate the public is currently satisfied with the variety of recreational facilities available while hoping for expansion of programs and recreational opportunities. It is important to note the top five priorities for facility development, Table IV -7 (Q15), relate to walking, cycling access and wildlife corridors. The distant next five priorities are primarily related to facility development that includes a full spectrum of active sport facilities. Public comment indicates that seasonal overuse of outdoor facilities is likely to worsen based on local and regional participation trends. Program participation in field sports is shown in Table III - 1. Growth from 1996 - 2001 is projected to add about 1,100 additional people to the City population. While the existing facilities are currently adequate to meet community use demands, the public will experience a decrease in level of service over time. RECREATIONAL FACILITIES STANDARDS III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 111 -11 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN The numerical values shown in Table III -2 for recreation facility service standards are based on the satisfaction level paired with community priorities demonstrated in survey response and community input, to meet future demand. These guidelines service expectations are similar to regional guidelines as adopted in other Puget Sound communities. While additional capacity analysis maybe helpful, these figures generally indicate availability of recreational facilities to accommodate additional demand from population growth without additional facility development through the planning period. OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE Operation of the recreation a nd pool pr ograms be gan i n 1995 w ith t he budg et ba sed on information available from Jefferson County. Rules of thumb for operations and maintenance have been developed based on the current direct costs of the existing programs even though the City, s general administrative costs are not allocated across parks and recreation programs. The cost of t he s chool di strict, s overhead is not c ompletely i ncluded i n s haring a rrangements. Additionally, the school district spends $180,000 per year in school sports programs not included in these costs estimates. 1997 Operations and Maintenance Recreation $ 84,764 39% Pool $131,159 61% Total $215,923 100% Recreation Pool Salaries 72% 79% Supply 18% 0.6% Other 9.5% 20% 1997 Staff Levels Pool 3.5 FTE and 1 Pool Manager =4.31 FTE Recreation 2 FTE and 1 Recreation Director =2.86 FTE TOTAL RECREATION FTE in 1997 =7.17 FTE RECREATION OPERATION COSTS The budget and revenues are shown in Tables III -3, III -4, and III -5. These tables compare the initial program set up costs with the current operations budget. Current cost per 4 hour course = $ 15.60 @ $ 3.29 / participant hour Current Charge per 4 hr. course = $15.00 Budgeted / FTE = $84,872 / 2.86 = $29,675 / FTE Recreation Budget / Population = $84,764 / 8,580 = $9.88 / person III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 I11-12 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Participant Hours / FTE = 8,997 hours / 2.86 FTE = 3,146 hours / FTE Volunteer Hours / Total Hours Volunteer Savings at $7.50 / hr Equipment / Total budget = 7% of Total FTE time = 4% of budget or $3,225 = 16% of budget POOL OPERATION COSTS The City provides for basic swimming pool maintenance including temperature and chlorine control, wash down, general clean up, etc. The City is directly responsible for the operation and maintenance of the sauna facility. The City provides teachers, coaches and lifeguards for all of the programs including the School District and Swim Team contracts. The budget and revenues are shown in Tables III -3, III -4, and III -5. Cost / hr. $131,159 / 4,839 hrs. =$27.10/hr # of Patrons / hr. 26,624 / 4,839 hrs. = 5.5 Patrons / hour 5.5 Patrons/ average hr. @ $27.10 / Pool hr. = $ 5.00 / person / hour Actual use fee 1997 $ 2.50 / adult / visit = $66,560 / year in fees Cost / Population $131,159 / 8,580 = $15.29 / person / year Cost / FTE = $131,159 / 3.31 = $39,625 / FTE # Patrons / FTE = 26,624 / 3.31 = 8,044 patrons / FTE Port Townsend Swim Team Contract: March - August $350 /mo Sept. - February $550 /mo Averaged over 1 year $450 /mo Port Townsend School District Contract III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 I11-13 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 1996 fees paid per month: Fuel Oil $ 450.45 Electricity 450.00 Maintenance 150.00 Sewer 129.13 Custodial 591.92 Total Per Month $1,771.50 FINANCING City pays PTSD Pool rental ($1771.50 x 12) PTSD pays program fee for elementary swim to City $21,258 /year $5,000 / year As shown in Table III- 4, the Recreation Program user fees and donations account for 56% of the program revenues, and the swimming pool fees account for 56% of pool revenues. The balance is paid from the City, s annual Current Expense Budget. This split was confirmed as the community, s preferred policy in the 1996 survey, Section IV. The 1997 budget for the Recreation Division is about $85,000.00. Fees are based on number of hours per session. The pricing philosophy is related to a 1996 school district cap of $30 per activity which increased considerably for the 1997 -98 school year. The school district provides substantial support for the recreation program with administrative, facility, custodial, and supplies. While the contracts specify City payments for such support, the program benefits from school overhead costs not included in these contracts. RECREATION AND POOL COMBINED 1997 Budget Total budget / population Total Funding from Current Expense Budget _ $215,923 / 8,580 _ $ 25.77 / person _ $93,923 / 8,580 _ $ 10.94 / person The first budget in 1995 was purposely general; a distinction between pool and recreation was not recognized until 1997. It is shown as Table III -3 compared to 1996 and 1997 expenditures. Table III -4 shows 1995 revenues and sources compared to 1996 and 1997. Table III -5 shows the 1997 user fee schedule for the recreation and pool programs. Table III -7 reflects an average ratio III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 I11-14 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN of one administrative FTE per 400 participants. Assuming a consistent rate of participant increase, and a consistent ratio of funding of 50% from current expense budget and 50% user fees (including grants and donations), the future funding needs from the current expense budget can be projected for annual budget development. III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 I11-15 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE III -3 1995, 1996, 1997 Recreation and Pool Budgets * Includes capital expense for purchase of sports equipment. ** Includes bag check system, lifeguard uniforms, sauna, swim crib, movable stairs /ramp, and recreational aids (basketball, volleyball, lap clock, storage unit, water polo net). During this same period the school district provided a lifeguard chair, cervical collars, and handicap lift. (1) Note that for 1997, $25,200 is reserved for contract payments to the School District for pool use. III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 I11-16 1995 1996 1997 Salaries & Benefits 45,700 133,544 164,923 Recreation 61,164 Pool 103,759 Supplies 26,840 6,200 16,400 Recreation 15,500 Pool 900 Other Services & Charges 26,000 30,000 34,600 Recreation 8,100 Pool (1) 26,500 Total O &M 98,540 169,744 215,923 Recreation 84,764 Pool 131,159 Capital Improvements 15,323 -0- -0 Recreation* 2,500 -0- -0- Pool** 12,823 -0- -0- * Includes capital expense for purchase of sports equipment. ** Includes bag check system, lifeguard uniforms, sauna, swim crib, movable stairs /ramp, and recreational aids (basketball, volleyball, lap clock, storage unit, water polo net). During this same period the school district provided a lifeguard chair, cervical collars, and handicap lift. (1) Note that for 1997, $25,200 is reserved for contract payments to the School District for pool use. III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 I11-16 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE III -4 1995, 1996, 1997 Recreation and Pool Budget Revenue III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 I11-17 1995 1996 1997 1997 %Budget Recreation 84,872 User Fees 17,000 27,000 38,150 45% Current Expense -0- -0- 36,722 43.5% Donation 6,000 7,000 8.0% School District -0- 3,000 3,000 (not including in -kind) 3.5% Total 1997 1000/4, Pool 131,159 User Fees 38,000 47,400 58,300 44% Current Expense -0- -0- 57,307 44% Donation -0- -0- -0- -0- School District 6,500 10,000 10,150 8% PTST 1,600 4,800 5,400 4% Total 1997 100 Recreation / Pool Total 113,554 62,200 215,923 User Fees 55,000 74,400 96,450 45% Current Expense 43,540 70,250 93,923 43% Donation 6,000 7,000 3% School District 6,500 13,000 13,150 6% PT Swim Team 1,600 4,800 5,400 3% Total 1997 100° o III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 I11-17 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE III -5 1997 User Fee Schedule for the Recreation and Pool Programs. Recreation User Fees Program Fee After School Program $30.00 Summer Enrichment Program $140.00 Co -Ed Volleyball $15.00 Jogging and Conditioning $30.00 Youth Tennis $25.00 T -Ball $20.00 Open Gym $10.00/hr Pool Program Fees Program Fee Single Use - Youth $2.00 Senior $2.00 Adult $2.50 Kiddie (3 & Under) $1.25 20 Admission Pass - Youth $30.00 Senior $30.00 Adult $40.00 6 -Month Pass $150.00 1 -Year Pass $250.00 Pool Rental 1 -25 Swimmers $40.00/Hr. 26 -60 Swimmers $50.00/Hr. 61 -90 Swimmers $60.00/Hr. Private Lessons 1 Participant $15.00 per 1/2 Hr. III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 I11-18 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN The Table III -6 shows the relationship between the growth of the recreation program participation, total annual budget and the increase in employees of the department. TABLE III -6 Recreation Budget and Staff Growth Year Program Participation Annual Budget FTEs 1995 298 $38,430 1.0 1996 479 $66,200 1.5 1997 775 $84,764 2.86 1998 1400 $97,500 3.5 TABLE III -7 Recreation Participation vs. Annual Budget # of participants 1995 1996 1997 1998 1400 3.53fte 1200 1000 800 2.86fte 600 1.5fte 400 1.0 fte 200 $10K $20K $30K $40K $50K $60K $70K $80K $90K $100 K III- Recreation. doc January, 1999 I11-19 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN IV. OPEN SPACE *INTRODUCTION * HISTORY & EXISTING CONDITIONS * * OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE * * FINANCING * "Nations are preceded by forests and followed by deserts." - Chateaubriand 1V- OpenSpace.doc January, 1999 IV -I CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN STATEMENT OF PURPOSE FOR OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS The purpose of the Open Space Program in the Department of Public Works is: C To support the goals and policies outlined in the City GMA Comprehensive Plan. C To coordinate with other City functions, such as the Stormwater Fund, in providing open space preservation opportunities. C To work creatively in financing and providing for open space through grant opportunities, coordination with development proposals, and cooperation with other agencies including the Port Townsend School District, Jefferson Land Trust, and Jefferson County. C To regularly seek public input and involvement related to open space preservation. C To provide a framework of opportunities for implementation of the City Non - Motorized Transportation Plan. C To provide for adequate operation and maintenance funding for open space. C To develop management plans for city owned open space that maximizes multiple functions and values. 1V- OpenSpace.doc January, 1999 IV -3 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN INTRODUCTION Open space in Port Townsend embraces parks, cemeteries, sports fields, farms, forests, street ends. Undeveloped acreage around town including platted land, add to the sense of open space.. Open space includes areas that are both accessible to the public, and dedicated conservation easements that may not be. However anyone can walk through easements and rights -of -way that are preserved through City purchase, or dedication required through the subdivision or PUD permitting process. Passive recreation functions and values are important considerations in open space planning. These functions provide quiet spaces, natural vegetation, mountain, water, and pastoral views where people can wander, linger, and explore. This experience of the natural element of the local environment in a minimally intrusive way is regarded as "passive recreation ". Open space is an important element in the community planning for passive recreation. "Open space" is the park that the town is nestled into, a planning concept of the National Recreation and Parks Association. The Comprehensive Plan defines open space as land or water area with its surface open to the sky or predominantly undeveloped, which is set aside to serve the purposes of providing park and recreation opportunities, conserving valuable resources, and structuring urban development and form. The term "open space" is often further divided into the following categories: • Common Open Space: Space that may be used by all occupants of a residential complex (note: parking areas and driveways do not qualify as open space); • Landscaped Open Space: An outdoor area including natural or planted vegetation in the form of hardy trees, shrubs, grass, evergreen ground cover and /or flowers; • Private Open Space: Usable outdoor space directly accessible to a unit, with use restricted to the occupants of that unit; and • Usable Open Space: Usable open space is an outdoor area which is of appropriate size, shape and siting to provide for recreational activity. Usable open space may be occupied by sculpture, fountains or pools, benches or other outdoor furnishings, or by recreational facilities such as playground equipment, swimming pools, and game courts. Through these definitions, open space in Port Townsend has an urban component largely identified with commercial areas as well as our parks and schools. In Port Townsend, this component is also recognized through the adoption and implementation of the Urban Waterfront Plan and the Stormwater Master Plan. In the downtown Historic District, open space has been preserved through a series of City owned pocket parks and a private conservation easement. The City Comprehensive Plan overall goals and policies related to open space, are in Section I. An important component of the Comprehensive Plan is the role that open space plays in providing buffers, preserving view corridors, providing links between neighborhoods, providing 1V- OpenSpace.doc January, 1999 IV -4 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN wildlife corridors, and generally serving multi - purpose functions such as stormwater treatment and conveyance. All these factors contribute to the health, safety and welfare as well as quality of life that Port Townsend residents presently enjoy. Much of Port Townsend's undeveloped acreage is actually platted into 50' by 100' lots. In several areas, the turn of the century planning did not take into account the effects of human population density on stormwater runoff, water quality, and wildlife. The effects of the 19th century land speculation linger in the property plat maps used today. With the Jefferson County population expected to double by the year 2014, the buildout of platted lots could cause significant environmental impacts, exacerbate current flooding problems, as well as diminish the small town character of Port Townsend. Of particular interest to the community is protection of agricultural land as a valuable component of the pastoral atmosphere in Port Townsend. Undeveloped land may presents an opportunity to integrate different values of open space in future community design including conservation of forest cover and farming operations. In addition to the adoption of the open space planning goals, the community demonstrated broad support in the 1996 survey for protecting wildlife habitat and open spaces from incompatible development. The Land Use Map designation of "Potential Open Space ", Figure VI -1 includes much land that is identified as environmentally sensitive such as frequently flooded areas, wetlands, or drainage corridors. Areas of "potential open space" as designated in the Comprehensive Plan, reflect an initial evaluation done through the comprehensive planning process to identify areas that may be valuble for a variety of functions in their current state. "Essential habitat ", "significant open spaces" and "significant cultural resources" are referred to in the Comprehensive Plan goals but have yet to be applied to specific areas. Locations of many unique wetlands have only recently been identified during stormwater basin analysis As environmentally sensitive areas are identified during stormwater basin analysis and development review, the opportunity exists for evaluation of other open space functions. Other values and functions include park and recreation opportunities, buffers, habitat, and cultural resources. Coordination and compatibility with the full range of functions and values, based on the open space goals, is essential at all levels of long range planning and development review. The goals and policies also direct the City to seek opportunities to protect certain open space values and functions on private parcels through development review and partnerships with private landowners. When reviewing proposals that change existing land use, the City has the opportunity to consider open space functions in order to avoid conflicts of use as well as incompatible uses. Passive recreation functions and values are one of the many components for considerations in open space planning. The challenge to the community is to define a quantifiable open space expectation to mitigate the impacts of new development. This is addressed in the Recommendations /Action Plan, Section VI, Planning for Future Parks. In general, open space planning has the following qualities: 1V- OpenSpace.doc January, 1999 IV -5 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN C Recognizes urban landscape component in which open space reserves in commercial and industrial development enhance aesthetic and recreation opportunities in the urban environment and includes construction and maintenance of pocket parks, C Relates to environmentally sensitive area and buffer management requirements, C Considers street ends in the shorelines management zone as potential open space, C Considers all component functions and values of open space as illustrated in Figure IV -1 , C Establishes priorities of function to avoid conflicts of use, C Meets goals of stormwater plans and the North Quimper Peninsula Wildlife Corridor acquisition program to protect natural systems, and C Establishes connections to other destinations through the non - motorized trail system. MANAGEMENT OF CITY OWNED OPEN SPACES Through the direction of the goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan, the City intends to develop site specific management plans for City owned properties in conjunction with stormwater, trail planning and facility maintenance. Several sites such as Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park, Hendricks Pond, Larry Scott Memorial Trial, Murray Wetland and Froggy Bottoms have approved master plans or site designs. Other properties may in the future be developed for recreational opportunities that are compatible with their stormwater and sensitive area protections COORDINATION WITH TRAIL PLANNING The Comprehensive Plan goals suggest a tie between open space and trail placement. Defacto open space areas and trails for walking currently occur on private property that will develop into single family neighborhoods. Open space management plans and development proposals need to identify areas where trails would be compatible with development and open space functions. The City intends to accommodate trails in unopened rights -of -way, future park development, and through City owned parcels. Provision of non - motorized access is an important consideration during development review and through coordination with private landowners. It is anticipated that coordination with open space management will continue during the development and implementation of the Non - Motorized Functional Plan. The Non - Motorized Plan creates the implementation strategies to develop the Waterwalk, connecting the waterfront with a larger network of trails that lead to surrounding districts and residential neighborhoods. The plan recommends development of a multi -model trail loop around the City. This loop also unites an extensive system of parks and open spaces, including many environmentally sensitive areas that provide significant wildlife habitat. As trails are planned and designed, the level of use for pedestrians, horses, and wheeled vehicles of all sorts is an important consideration. Measures to avoid conflicts of use and to minimize impacts to the functions and values of the adjacent open space during trail planning are included in standards for development review. These standards are discussed in the Non - Motorized Plan. IV- OpenSpace.doc January, 1999 IV -6 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN FIGURE IV -1 OPEN SPACE VALUES AND FUNCTIONS emnamic trail corridors PASSIVE fiaura; RECREATION far�rra . aesthetic views wildlife flora, Fauna M-PTIMMIM economic protecion of property, natural drainage systems VALUES economic ed=atianai ! CT C3�IS wf[diffe f3ara ; HABITAT Pauna OPEN SPACE scientific 1UIT rcnrridars =IS wiidrife STORMWATER BUFFERS 1 econcmic prod air 4uafity water quality CULTURAL minimizes noise, RESOURCE visual imgaca economic social aesrhetic agrfcalmral sacred . water oriented . arcbite[zurai IV- OpenS pace. doe January, 1999 IV-7 15. North Beach 16. Street End Drainage Corridor 17. Levinski Wetland 18. Winona Wetland Ol 19. Elmira S JL-±N-1 I 30. St. s Ceme 27. orthQuirnper,-Peni sula Wildlife CprrgY ; ' 22. Lvm i e `' 3 Hen 24.�13ami H �l 0 � Q.q 1: o st i,"brudor 7�- 2. Howard' Ex�l Jh 21. MMM Figure IV -2 Open Space Inventory r ort. Orden esta; ' tAt Par r `ti t L �V 20. Street End 14. Froggy Bottoms �on 13. Street End o 12. Whitaker Wetland 28. Street End 29. Street End 11. Street End 0 0. Point Hudson 9. Downtown U Commercial Kah Tai Lagoon 8. Laurel Park and Redman's Cemetary CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND N -9 PARKS AND RECREATION FUNCTIONAL PLAN 1998 ` 7. Port Wetlands 6. Larry Scott Park 5. 14th Street to 4. Bishop Park 3. Business Park LEGEND ------ Trail — Arterial Street City Limits F— Wetlands and Wet Areas 100 Year Flood Plain Potential Open Space School 0 Commercial and Manufacturing 0 High Density Residential © Hospital 0 Public and Parks CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND N -9 PARKS AND RECREATION FUNCTIONAL PLAN 1998 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN HISTORY AND EXISTING RESOURCES Port Townsend has addressed future open space needs through the Comprehensive Plan. Potential Open Space Designation on Figure IV -2 identifies broad areas of forested drainage corridors, wetlands and unplatted lands. The Comprehensive Plan goals and policies guide the preservation of such open space features through review of new development proposals and environmentally sensitive area restrictions. These goals and policies encourage open space protection on private properties through voluntary tools such as conservation easements. The City stormwater utility has purchased properties for flood control and stormwater treatment, creating a defacto open space program with a variety of ancillary values. This is a key component of City stormwater planning to protect numerous drainage corridors, wetlands and other opportunities for natural stormwater treatment options. Preservation of natural systems is a high priority for the City that reduces the need for expensive facility construction while providing many other benefits to the community. Much of the designated open space has been preserved through utility purchases especially to protect drainage corridors and provide natural stormwater detention. Several properties have been purchased including: Froggy Bottoms (Cline- Graham property), Levinski property, Winona Wetlands, portions of the North Beach drainage corridor, Bishop Park, and 12th Street properties. Through ongoing evaluation of City owned parcels, areas of locally important habitat can be designated. In addition, property purchased near 20th and Howard Streets has been set aside for future water treatment and shop facility development. This area contains wetland and associated buffers. These portions may be designated as additional permanent open space in conjunction with site development. The goals of the Comprehensive Plan encourage planning of new development in such a way as to minimize the impact to wildlife habitat and water quality. Strategies include areas of lowered density, clustered housing with open space set - asides, redesigning access to avoid unnecessary street openings, protection of environmentally sensitive areas and stormwater planning that emphasizes natural drainage and retention patterns. The intent of the City in developing open space partnerships with property owners during development review is to create advantages to both the public and private owners. Requiring dedicated open space is authorized by the Growth Management Act where necessary to offset the direct impacts of development and includes mitigation through SEPA, subdivision requirements and environmentally sensitive area designation and regulation. Trail development for a variety of recreational and transportation needs is often associated with open space corridors. Trail development provides many advantages including reducing traffic congestion on city streets, reducing pollution, and providing opportunities for recreation Existing commonly used trails provide the framework for a city -wide trail system especially in the undeveloped areas of the City. Recently, several trail sections have been constructed or are under 1V- OpenSpace.doc January, 1999 IV -12 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN construction, including bike lanes on Kearney Street, 19th & Blaine Streets, new sections of Howard Street, and the Larry Scott Memorial Trail. The Non - Motorized Plan provides more specific details on future trail corridors, including conceptual designs and trail cross sections. Wherever possible, the City will provide reasonable accommodation for trail access in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. OPEN SPACE PROPERTIES as illustrated on Figure IV -2. 1. HIGHWAY 20 FOREST CORRIDOR - A forested buffer 100 feet wide along the south side of Highway 20 from Howard Street almost to the City edge was deeded to the City to preserve the parkway entrance to the City in 1994. Property along the north side of the highway is recommended for similar protection in the Gateway plan. 2. HOWARD'S END WETLAND — Acquired by the City to mitigate impacts of the CT- Pipeline the area includes restored buffers and wildlife habitat in a urbanizing area. 3. BUSINESS PARK — This area was set aside as part of the stormwater plan and provides a maintained trail and picnic tables. 4, 5. BISHOP PARK TO 14TH STREET - 2.5 acres of wooded ravine with trails is included in the park land analysis however this park is likely to remain primarily open space. Several parcels have been purchased in this location to allow for drainage to flow from the 14th and McPherson area to Bishop Park. These parcels will allow for natural constructed wetland treatment, detention, and conveyance while maintaining open space in this neighborhood. 6. LARRY SCOTT PARK — The City has acquired 9.2 acres of wetland, shoreline and railroad grade that will be the trailhead for a regional multi -modal trail. 7. PORT WETLANDS — This area of freshwater wetlands at the base of a marine bluff have been protected from further industrial development with biofiltration swales and dedicated buffer areas. 8, 27. LAUREL PARK AND REDMAN'S CEMETARIES — These areas provide open space in a developing residential area. These privately owned cemeteries in Port Townsend with limited public access, provide a variety of landscaped and naturalized open space. Redmen's, Laurel Grove, and (27) Saint Mary's Catholic Cemeteries provide buffers between differing land uses and a variety of habitat. These sacred places function as significant cultural resources for the community. 9. DOWNTOWN COMMERCIAL — The Urban Waterfront District contains several pocket parks and street ends that provide access to the water and function as urban open space. These areas are detailed in Section 11- Parks. 1V- OpenSpace.doc January, 1999 IV -13 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 10. POINT HUDSON — The former Coast Guard Station now owned by the Port of Port Townsend provides significant shoreline access in the Urban Waterfront District. This facility is more thoroughly described in Section II- Parks. 11, 13, 16, 19, 20,28, 29. STREET ENDS — Surrounded on three sides by high bluffs and shoreline, several street ends remain undeveloped providing significant views and beach access. Of particular note are Taft, Hudson, Walnut, W and Reed Streets. These rights -of -way are not yet clearly marked for public access. In some neighborhoods, landscaping from adjacent properties obscures access. In addition to street ends specified on the Figure VI -2, all street ends in the shoreline management zone are considered potential open space. 12. WHITAKER WETLAND — Vacated in the late 80's, the intersection of C and Beech Streets was excavated to provide open space, stormwater retention and open water habitat. 14. FROGGY BOTTOMS - This three acre piece of property was purchased by the City in 1992 with additions in 1997. It historically existed as a wetland, but had been filled over the course of several years, prior to 1990. The City purchased the area in a contained drainage basin, with this property as the low point. It is presently being incorporated into stormwater planning for San Juan Avenue. The improvements to the parcel will restore the wetland and provide stormwater treatment and detention. The restoration will provide habitat appropriate for birds and wildlife. 15. NORTH BEACH DRAINAGE CORRIDOR - Drainage from Basin #4 flows between Hendricks and Jackman Streets along the north side of 49th Street, which is largely undeveloped. Numerous lots have been purchased which will support keeping this area natural for storm drainage and as a wildlife corridor. A Department of Ecology loan has been used to purchase much of this section of the northern corridor drainage. 17. LEVINSKI PROPERTY - This 50 acre piece of property, located in Fowler's Park off the corner of 49th Street, Cook Avenue, and Hendricks Street serves multiple purposes. The Seaview Sewer crosses the site, providing an access trail across the property. Several wetlands and a drainage corridor are on site, including an Aspen wetland complex. The site was purchased with wastewater funds as a possible site for future Wastewater Treatment needs. Vegetation is varied throughout, though the property was logged years ago. This project began a partnership between the Jefferson Land Trust to provide an open space corridor from Middle Point to Fort Worden. This and other City property purchases are important elements of the North Quimper Peninsula Wildlife Corridor Protection Project described below. 18. WINONA WETLANDS - This is a large wetland (approximately 6.5 acres) located in the northwest area of town in the middle of Fowler's Park. The entire area was platted back in 1890 and consists of dozens of 50 x 100 foot lots. The City has purchased most of the area, including the buffer and major portions of the drainage corridor to the east of the Levinski property. The Seaview Sewer encroaches into the wetland, but there are plans for rerouting it out of the wetland. The overall area is important for wildlife and as a natural stormwater detention area. A 1V- OpenSpace.doc January, 1999 IV -14 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Department of Ecology loan has been used in purchasing much of this section of the North Quimper Peninsula Wildlife Corridor. 21. ROSEWIND PUD — This planned unit development includes street vacations and wetland set asides of permanent open space and common ground for residents. 22. LYNNESFIELD PUD — Community commons and stormwater detention areas provide significant dedicated open space. 23. HENDRICKS STREET - This project is a neighborhood -City partnership project allowing for the use of a street right -of -way between 30th and 31st Streets to be used as a stormwater retention /treatment system and will incorporate a trail connection between 31st and 30th Streets. 24. HAMILTON HEIGHTS - Community commons and stormwater detention areas provide significant dedicated open space. 25. GOLF COURSE - Described in detail in Section 11 under Parks: History and Existing Resources, the Golf Course is a full service recreational facility. Special consideration is given to the two natural features on the property, the pond /wetland complex and the native prairie preserve. These two areas provide multiple open space functions and values including habitat, buffers, stormwater and passive recreation opportunities. 26. BLUE HERON MIDDLE SCHOOL — Preserved and protected by the Port Townsend School District in conjunction with the construction of new school facilities approximately 11 acres of pasture has been restored to a natural wetland condition used for multi - disciplinary studies by a variety of grades and classes of students. Ongoing monitoring as required in the ESA permit include water fluctuations and viability of plant restoration. 27. NORTH QUIMPER PENINSULA WILDLIFE CORRIDOR - The goal of the Jefferson Land Trust North Quimper Peninsula Wildlife Corridor (NQPWC) project is preservation of a green space wildlife corridor across the northern portion of the Quimper Peninsula. This corridor connects important wildlife habitat areas between Fort Worden State Park and the Middlepoint Land Conservancy on the west side of McCurdy Point. Completion of the project will provide a protected pathway along which native wildlife species can move in relative security between the high quality habitats of the area. Whenever possible, the corridor will follow natural drainage corridors that have higher habitat value and are important for stormwater management. Habitat works best when it is connected to other high quality habitat. Much of the proposed corridor is relatively wild and sparsely developed, though a number of development proposals are under review. Wildlife species such as bobcat, fox, small mammals, tree frogs, rough - skinned newts, and others need continuous habitat in order to prevent isolation and species decline. With the NQPWC, the chance exists to shape development appropriately so as to preserve the habitat values and wildlife 1V- OpenSpace.doc January, 1999 IV-15 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN of the area while protecting wetlands, forests, and meadows for future generations of wildlife and humans alike. The Land Trust efforts are creating opportunities to preserve these biologically rich, varied habitats from fragmentation. This preservation and connection of habitat is the goal of the NQPWC. Portions of the proposed corridor are already protected by conservation easements or held in public ownership. The City of Port Townsend has purchased the 50 acre Levinski Wetland property and portions of Winona Wetland as part of its stormwater management plan. Chinese Gardens and Fort Worden State Park are also in state ownership. Beyond the City limits, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources holds 80 acres of forested school trust land located in the corridor. The Middlepoint Land Conservancy is protected by a conservation easement with the Jefferson Land Trust. Protection of the proposed connector lands will be through cooperative agreements with city, county, and state agencies overseeing the public portions and through voluntary conservation easements or donations from private landowners. The ultimate path of the corridor connecting portions will be determined by those corridor neighbors that choose to participate through conservation easements or land donations and through landscaping for wildlife, habitat creation, and wetland restoration efforts. Protection of the corridor in cooperation with the City and the Jefferson Land Trust has significant benefits to adjacent landowners as well as to the community as a whole. Participation in the project can: • Enhance property values by providing adjacent open space • Reduce the risk of flooding by maintaining the integrity of the drainage corridor • Assist landowners in native planting and habitat restoration efforts • Provide potential tax savings through donation of conservation easements or land • Preserve a contiguous greenbelt of native vegetation for safe passage of wildlife species • Preserve green space and habitat permanently for the benefit of future generations • Protect existing habitat and water quality • Provide interpretive signs, observation areas, and pathways in public portions of the corridor • Maintain natural stormwater management, reducing the need for costly stormwater facilities OTHER Conservation Easements - The most common way for a landowner to protect cherished lands is through granting of conservation easements or land to the City or to a private non - profit land trust. Public access to lands in private ownership must be authorized by the owner. Conservation easements are forever, even when the ownership of the land changes. 1V- OpenSpace.doc January, 1999 IV-16 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Jefferson Land Trust is a non - profit organization providing options for landowners wishing to permanently protect the ecological, agricultural, scenic, historic, or recreational qualities of their land. The Jefferson Land Trust is contacting property owners in hopes of encouraging participation in corridor protection. This has resulted in conservation easements or title to nearly 700 acres throughout eastern Jefferson County, two of which are within the City of Port Townsend. The Land Trust will continue to offer these services to residents in the City. At this time, tax benefits related to dedication of land in "open open space" under 84.34 RCW is limited to property within the unincorporated portions of Jefferson County. The City must be included in the Jefferson County Open Space Program by County resolution before this benefit is available to City property owners. The City must adopt an open space public benefit rating system to evaluate the tax reduction factor on each individual parcel included in the program. Private Open Spaces - Numerous development projects have included the construction of detention /treatment systems thus keeping several lots undeveloped and providing habitat, buffer, and stormwater, important functions of open space. Included are projects by Enarson, Stuben, and Wilburn. Two conservation easements have been dedicated to the Jefferson Land Trust as private spaces. Killam's Farm easement, north of the Port Townsend Industrial Park, provides long term protection to agricultural land now zoned multi - family. The Westerman Plaza Park easement downtown provides private green space adjacent to the Haller Fountain Park. Where open space is a condition of development and provides or protects a variety of values and functions described in Figure IV -1, it is considered an open space facility and is designated on Figure IV -2. Currently, open space is required or provided in the following locations: C Port Townsend Business Park C Port of Port Townsend Larry Scott Memorial Park Trailhead and wetland area C Lynnesfield stormwater detention facility, wetland area, and playfield C Blue Heron Middle School wetland area C Hamilton Heights PUD C Rosewind PUD A review of the record for five of these developments provides the following analysis: Rose Wind Co- Housing Overall Site: 19 -21 single family units 1 multi unit dwelling (6 families) Density of units: 3.3 dwelling units per acre OPEN SPACE: 4 Acres, 1 pond 1 playfield TOTAL IMPERVIOUS SURFACE: 82,150 sq. ft. (1.9 Acres) 1V- OpenSpace.doc January, 1999 IV -17 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Total Site: 16 % Coverage by buildings 7 % Paved Areas 76.5 % Open Space Hamilton Heights Planned Unit Development Overall Site: 25.13 Acres 101 single family units (residential lots account for 48% of the site (12 Acres)) 0 multi unit dwellings Density of units: 4.2 dwelling units per acre OPEN SPACE: 8.5 Acres (34% of site) TOTAL IMPERVIOUS SURFACE: 11 Acres (43.6% of site) 3 stormwater ponds, 1 tot lot (5,000 sq. ft), a "network" of sidewalks and trails and a recreational vehicle storage unit. Lynnesfield Planned Unit Development Overall Site: 23 Acres 66 single family units 34 multi family Density of units: 6.7 dwelling units per acre OPEN SPACE: 6 Acres (25% of site) Passive Open Space: 3.5 Acres Active Recreational Space: 2.5 Acres TOTAL IMPERVIOUS SURFACE: 10.5 Acres (45% of site) Playfields and a pond (included in open space), 1 tot lot, trails and recreational vehicle storage. Port Townsend Business Park (Information taken from May 17, 1993 SEPA, proposal description) Overall Site: 35 Acres 73 buildings maximum Density of units: not given COMMON OPEN SPACE: 5 Acres (14% of site:this includes streets TOTAL IMPERVIOUS SURFACE: 18.5 Acres (53% of site) Buffers: 50 ft. Northern and Eastern Property Lines 20 ft Western and Southern Property Lines. Total buffer Area: 5.6 Acres 1 Stormwater Pond SUMMARY The average open space related to impervious surface is 36 %. Only a portion of this undeveloped area in each development meets the definition of useable open space available for recreation use while the total serves several other functions for open space. Planning for useable open space is 1V- OpenSpace.doc January, 1999 IV -18 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN addressed in Recommendations /Action Plan, Section VI, Planning for Future Parks. The 1996 survey indicated that protection of additional open space for walking, passive recreation, and habitat is a high priority for the residents of Port Townsend. Designated open space has been preserved through utility purchases especially to protect drainage corridors and provide natural stormwater detention. While passive recreation is an ancillary benefit of these purchases, the City does not have acquisition plans specific to recreation or aesthetic values. OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE There is no formal open space department within the City of Port Townsend. Maintenance of most of these properties is coordinated through the Public Works Operations and Maintenance Division specifically with the Street and Parks crews. Most of the trails are unimproved and are not maintained. The Parks Department provides seasonal trail brushing in some places. Currently none of these areas are marked for public access and do not provide interpretive signage. Maintenance agreements for stormwater facilities in new development can be established through the development review process. FINANCING Open Space as shown in Figure IV -1 has a variety of values and functions. This inherent variety allows for flexible approach to funding open space protection. Protecting drainage corridors from incompatible development is a major component of the City's approach to stormwater management. The City Stormwater Utility has imposed a monthly stormwater fee to the City utility customers for 10 years. This fund has been used to purchase significant parcels of land. These parcels, designated components of the City's stormwater program, have all the variety of values and functions of open space. Some are forested, some have wetland characteristics, many have significant wildlife habitat values. Most provide esthetic values to adjoining properties. State Revolving Fund Loans through the Department of Ecology may be available to the City to continue stormwater and flood control purchases. The City has applied for funds from IAC and other state funding sources to acquire portions of the North Quimper Peninsula Wildlife Corridor including the Winona Wetlands area to protect urban wildlife habitat. While ranking well in the program, the project was not funded and is no longer eligible for this funding. The IAC Local Parks Fund will be a potential source for property acquisition where tracts of open space are included in a community or neighborhood park project. 1V- OpenSpace.doc January, 1999 IV -19 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN The City received a 1998 Public Involvement in Education Grant from the Puget Sound Action Team to be used to train volunteers to restore and maintain wetland /drainage systems through public and private partnerships. This education project includes citizen dedication of volunteer work on a variety of public properties. 1V- OpenSpace.doc January, 1999 IV -20 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN V. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROCESS PROCESS SUMMARY * SURVEY SUMMARY * COMMUNITY INPUT "Thanks for sending the survey. Great way to hear what people think from a variety of backgrounds. I for one find myself too busy to voice my opinion on important issue and often think of writing a letter but don't get around to it. Glad to be a part! My whole family participated in this." "I'm glad to finally be addressed as a citizen and have a chance to express my opinion. I think public surveys should issued more often." "This survey looks like you are spending a lot of money which should have been used for improvements." "Don't need these surveys." 1996 Survey Respondents v- Proeess.doe January. 1999 V-1 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Process Summary Open and ongoing communication with the is crucial to the development of this Parks, Recreation & Open Space Functional Plan. Measuring and monitoring of public needs, perceptions and satisfaction levels was done in several was described below. There has been a variety of measurable, intuitive and direct individual input from the community throughout the planning process. This input provides the basis of an informal trends analysis incorporated in the survey conclusions. These conclusions assisted the Oversite Committee to identify early in the process strengths and weaknesses of the current programs and facilities and identify strategic issues. These factors provide insight and direction to form a detailed action plan designed to meet the needs and desires of the community. PORT TOWNSEND RANDOM HOUSEHOLD SURVEY Sample Design and Selection A survey of households within the City of Port Townsend was conducted between November 19, 1996, and January 31, 1997. Survey questionnaires were mailed to 840 households, randomly selected from the City of Port Townsend Utility billing database of 3,500 accounts. There was one questionnaire per selected household. The questionnaires were targeted at the entire households? preferences. The survey demographic questions were used to sort information from the respondent and the other household members somewhat independently. The survey questions were developed based on goals articulated by the oversight committee. The format and final version was approved by the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Functional Plan Oversight Committee and the Parks and Recreation Commission. Prior to the final version a sample survey was sent to 20 individuals and their comments were incorporated in the final version. 840 surveys were mailed to the random sample of households. 451 usable surveys were returned from the main random survey. The return ratio was 54 %. The survey process was initiated with a postcard sent to each household announcing that they were selected to participate in the survey (November 6, 1996), an article in The Leader (November 6, 1996), the mailing of the entire survey packet including a stamped return envelope (November 19, 1996), and a follow up postcard sent to those who had not returned surveys (December 20, 1996). Responses were accepted through December 31, 1996. Based on the variety of characteristics being measured, it was decided that the goal was to maximize the return rather than attempt to obtain a 95% confidence level. The results were then compared to known demographics from census data to validate the results based on the personal data. Confidentiality V- Process.doc January, 1999 V -3 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN was assured as survey identification numbers were checked for response verification and removed prior to data entry. The return ratio of 54% is slightly less than the 61% average for most communities. This is explained in part by the budget decision to send reminder postcards rather than a second survey to households that had not returned the first one. The reminders increased the initial response by about 10 %. The random sample returns represented a population sample size of 1057 people, approximately 13% of the population of the City. In addition 70 surveys were sent to the high school, 30 to the middle school, and 50 each to City Hall and the City Library. These additional surveys were used to provide an additional public perspective to the planning process especially from school aged children. The survey data is analyzed in three geographic areas of the City as shown below. These areas correspond to the area breakout in the 1990 Park and Recreation Survey. TABLE V -1 Percent return by area of the City of Port Townsend Area A 41.5% Area B 18.0% Area C 30.4%) No Response 10.2 %, FIGURE V -1 Port Townsend Response Areas Map V- Process.doc January, 1999 V -4 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Survey Summary METHODOLOGY Several of the questions in the survey required the respondents to prioritize their answers. The questions that had a first, second, and third most important response have been weighted to allow for the difference in importance. The approach adopted in this analysis was to weight the answers by giving a 60% weighting factor to the first priority, a 30% weighting to the second priority and a 10% weighting to the third priority. The resulting scores were added to provide a single score providing a better indication of public opinion than if the first responses had simply been counted. The top responses may not be everyone's first choice, but the method used reflects the desires of all respondents on a cumulative basis. The weighted score is used to arrive at conclusions. The responses to ranked questions have been analyzed by combining "high" and ,'most high" values together and "low" and "lowest" values ( or 1 through 5) together to assume an overall positive or negative public response. RESULTS AND ANALYSIS Q5 - Frequency of use The significant variances between areas show Area C respondents use Pope Marine Park, the community center, and Bobby McGarraugh park less than the other area residents. Area B respondents use City Dock, paths and trails in City limits, beach access, the golf course, and the Levinski and Winona wetlands more than the other areas. Conclusion - The wetlands and city trails are more important to people in area B, otherwise there is a common agreement about the frequency of the use of Chetzemoka, Kah Tai, Pope Marine, and Terrace Steps as the most frequently used City Parks. Note that Bishop Park and the skateboard facility are rarely used by households in the survey. The swimming pool is used sometimes or often by nearly 40 %, the Golf course is used sometimes or often by 30 %. Frequency of use could be used as an indicator for budget dollar allocations and could be an indicator that future development or additional facilities should follow the qualities of the most popular facilities. Q6 - What do you value in our parks? Over 60% of responses concluded that cleanliness, appearance, natural areas, views, location, wildlife habitat, and safety are the top values in the parks. Conclusion - Cleanliness, appearance, and safety are the major maintenance priorities; natural areas, views, and location are the keys for site selection; and wildlife habitat and naturalness are the keys for parks philosophy. V- Process.doc January, 1999 V -5 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Q7 - Open Space uses With the exception of stormwater containment, 55% or above thought all the criteria were important. Wildlife habitat, buffer between uses, shoreline access and wildlife corridors were 70% and above. Area B respondents were particularly interested in the buffers between neighborhoods and other land uses and trails. Area A showed a higher interest in shorelines access. Conclusion - Education is probably needed on stormwater containment; wildlife remains a priority for parks and open spaces. Passive recreation is not considered a high priority for open space. Q8 - Improvements for Walking and Bicycling The respondents rated continuous trails for non - motorists as important in 76% of the cases; 70% rated off - street bicycle trails and 64% on street bike lanes as important. Conclusion - The major area for improvement, confirmed by Q9 is continuous trails and greater safety for bicycles and pedestrians. Q9 - What are the important improvements? Without question the highest rated improvement is continuous trails for non - motorists. Next came sidewalk additions and improvements followed by on- street painted bicycle lanes. Conclusion - There is a keen interest in providing trails for non - motorists. This matches the general profile of activity interests and facility requirements. Note that horse trails, signs, and water fountains were of little interest; however, restrooms were mentioned in several comments. Q10 - Non Motorized usage Over 78% walk/jog or hike for recreation daily or weekly. Under 30% bicycle for recreation daily or weekly. Area A has the largest percentage of walking commuters, Area B has the largest percentage of Bike recreation. Conclusion — It's not clear if the lower bike usage is a result of poor conditions or lack of interest. However Q8 /Q9 suggests that improving the bike trails would meet a need. This is verified when cross referenced with Q11, Q14, and Q15. Q11 - Most important activities Beach combing, walking, hiking, and bicycling scored high as important activities. Camping, gardening, picnicking were also in the top 10 rated. Golf was omitted from the original lists. Less than 10 people added golf as "Other." Conclusion - Add music and movies and the top ten activities profile a person who enjoys nature, enjoys activities in a natural environment, has quiet somewhat passive tastes, is not particularly interested in competitive sports, and organized activities are lower in importance. V- Process.doc January, 1999 V -6 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Q12 and Q13 asked what recreation services the City should provide. By far the most highly ranked service is youth programs, followed by seniors program and then swimming. Conclusion The responses continue the priority set in the previous plan: that Youth and Seniors programs should be the target for recreation services. Q14 - General satisfaction levels regarding existing recreational facilities High satisfaction levels with developed beach access, neighborhood parks, and trails for walking. Indoor sports facilities, equipment, and indoor weight rooms scored low. The highest dissatisfaction score was 34% - Bike lanes. Q15 - Top priorities for future development The weighted scores show trails for walking and exercise as the clear leader (in spite of a high satisfaction level), wildlife corridors, bike lanes (corresponding to a high dissatisfaction level), and bicycling trails all follow closely. Golf scored low, as did overnight camping, mooring, equipment, and in spite of the poor satisfaction score, sports courts and indoor weight rooms. Conclusion - The results support the conclusion that the respondents are asking for greater attention to be spent on trails and wildlife. The results suggest improving or continuing work on trails, fixing the bike lanes and protection of wildlife habitat. Beach access, neighborhood parks, and Mountain View Swimming Pool rank in the mid -range for future improvements, a ranking worth noting in long range plans as existing facilities reach capacity. Q16 - Thoughts on City Recreation Programs There was generally a high response rate to this series of statements. The majority of responses indicate that the City programs have a high use rate; even more are interested in public programs, find City offerings that interest them, and generally don't find better offerings from private programs. Households with children (33 %) responded somewhat differently than households without children. Respondents with children were equally spilt in response to private programs. 62% responded that they use City recreation programs compared to 39% of households without children. City recreation programs are geared toward school age youth, yet respondents with children indicated more often a lack of adequate information. Respondents with children generally did not find the programs too expensive. It is odd to find that while 67% of these households use the programs, only 61% find programs that interest them. V- Process.doc January, 1999 V -7 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Conclusion - The City Recreation Program has reached a target market for youth programs, at an affordable rate. More information may need to be provided outside of the schools. An increase in dollars per class may lower the satisfaction and participation level (affordability). The indicated desire for senior programs is not being met through City recreation yet, providing another target direction for program development. Q17 - Contrasting activities preference The overall response indicates that 64% had no preference for outdoor to indoor activities, with a slight overall preference for physically active pastimes. There was a low response to team activities and an equal split between competitive and noncompetitive activities. The range of response showed a preference for outdoor, active, and solo activities overall. There were no responses to this question in the random sample from under 24 age groups. The responses, concentrated in the 24 -54 age groups, reflected the preference for outdoor, active, solo noncompetitive activities as did the responses from those over age 55. The high school responses echoed the random sampled responses but had a much higher priority for the City to provide sports leagues. (Q12) Conclusion - Survey responses reflect, as noted above (Q11), an interest in outdoor, unorganized activities. Most are interested in physical activities other than team sports; however the interest in organized youth programs and the current high level of participation in recreation leagues indicates a need that should be continued to be filled with public and private offerings. Q18 - Comprehensive Plan Open Space Goals Responses showed overwhelming agreement with the open space goals adopted in the 1997 Comprehensive Plan. More respondents had no opinion than actually disagreed with the goal statements. Linkages between neighborhoods had the highest level of agreement. Conclusion - The Parks, Recreation & Open Space Functional Plan should develop strategies to implement the open space goals of the City comprehensive plan. Q19 - Recreation Statement The statement regarding the Recreation Division also received an overwhelmingly high approval rate at 89 %. Conclusion - The considerable support for this statement qualifies it as an acceptable mission statement for the recreation division. The high level of agreement can also guide budget and program prioritizing as the City recognizes the values of recreation. Q21 - Opportunities for voluntary financial support This question follows with specific opportunities for voluntary financial support. Less than 41% answered consistently negatively. V- Process.doc January, 1999 V -8 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Positive responses were highest for financial support to open space and trails. By combining responses to the less specific options (need more info and not on a regular basis), a considerable pool of potential voluntary contributors are indicated. Conclusion These responses are very positive indicators of the communities willingness to volunteer. Opportunities for volunteer participation should be encouraged by City policies and program development. Q22 - How to finance City programs The respondents overwhelmingly agreed that a split between tax dollars and user fees are appropriate to finance City recreation programs. When compared by income levels the preference is the same, though those in the less than $10,000 per year had the highest response for tax dollars only, and those at $50,000 per year or more had the least preferences for tax dollars only. Those that gave no income figures showed lower overall support for tax dollar support for parks and recreation. Conclusion - The City should continue to dedicate tax revenue to the Parks and Recreation Divisions while pursuing alternate sources for funding including user fees. Q23 - Your maximum annual household budget for recreation programs The highest response was in the $51 to $100 range. When correlated with income, it is clear that households with higher income would budget at proportionately higher spending levels. Households in low to median income ranges for Port Townsend are in the $100 or less per year range. Conclusion - The current costs of recreation programs the City offers allows most low to median income households to participate in several programs annually. Additional cost would eliminate some of the user groups or the number of programs a family could participate in. Q25 - How do you find out about program offerings? The newspaper is by far the most common way for the respondents to find out about programs and facility improvements. "Word of mouth" is an interesting secondary way information is passed in Port Townsend. There is some variation by area for Channel 8 and school information sources. Conclusion - The response validates the usefulness of City efforts to inform citizens through the local newspaper. The use of school and Channel 8 as sources could be better developed to increase accuracy of "word of mouth" information. Q26 - How do you communicate your needs to the City? The top three responses were surveys, telephone, and in person. Internet, letters to the editor, and representative committees received overwhelmingly negative responses. V- Process.doc January, 1999 V -9 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Q27 - Most preferred method of communication Weighted preferences for communication indicated the favorite method is in person followed by telephone and surveys. Conclusion - Letters to the editor and participation in representative committees may receive a significant amount of attention from the City government, but most people won ?t participate that way. Surveys are expensive but can provide in -depth information regarding attitudes and priorities for the community. The City should continue to provide opportunities for the public to communicate needs in person. Q28 - Serve special needs 50% said they didn't know. Of those that answered, there was a wide split over the adequacy of service. Conclusion - The question was geared toward assessing awareness which is clearly reported as lacking. Inventory of existing facilities should include assessment of ADA facilities. Q29 - Employment status Only 45% of respondents are employed full time. 32% are retired. Q30 - Income In the 1990 census figures for Port Townsend the median income was $25,353. The median income of respondents is in the range of $20,000 to $34,999. A higher proportion of households in the $35,000 to over $50,000 range responded to the survey questions than are indicated from the 1990 census figures. During the 19 year period previous to 1990, the median income increased by 66 %. The higher income level of survey respondents may reflect a similar rate of increases over the past 6 years. Of the retired population, 36% report an annual income between $20,000 and $34,999. Another 33% makes over $35,000 per year. 55% of those employed full - time have incomes over $35,000 per year per household. Conclusion - The retired population in general is in the median income range for Port Townsend. The full -time employed population represents a large percentage that makes less than most of the retired people. The Comprehensive Plan correlates these figures with the ability to purchase a traditional home and has provided areas of the City for additional multi - family housing especially in areas B and C. These are the areas with the least access to Parks and Recreation facilities currently. This trend should be a major focus of the future action plan for Parks and Recreation. Q31 - Age and Gender The mean age of the population represented by the survey is 41 years compared to 40 years projected in the Comprehensive Plan. The current number of people per household in the survey is 2.34 as compared to a projected number of 2.3 in the Comprehensive Plan. The break out of population by age is comparable to the 1990 census data except for a shift of 8% of respondents V- Process.doc January, 1999 V -10 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN from the 25 -44 year group to the 45 -54 year group. Area A has a higher total population of respondents, but households are slightly larger in areas B and C. Area A has the least number of children per household. The responding households reflect a greater total population of females than males. Conclusion - The demographic picture of the City corresponds adequately with the projected population based on the 1990 census as defined in the 1996 Comprehensive Plan. Demographics indicate that the less developed areas B and C have larger households, more children, and are farther from City parks and recreation facilities than they should be. Q32 - Education Over 80% of respondents had some college education, 45% were graduates. Conclusion - This is a number significantly higher than the City's adult population percentages. The survey apparently attracted responses from a segment of the population that enjoys surveys and is college educated. In other ways, the demographics of the random sample are more similar to the 1990 census data. REPRESENTATIVE COMMENTS Opportunity for comment was provided in several open ended questions and on a final comment page. These comments were very informative in reminding the Committee of the importance of additional facilities such as the golf course, restrooms and off -leash areas for dogs. Several children provided insights into their feelings about safety, favorite activities and echoed their parents in the parks used most. Newcomers asked for more information and many long time residents asked for tax relief rather than increase facilities or programs. Concern for the urban deer herd varied from that of a persistent pest to a welcome friend endangered by urban thoughtlessness. Often housebound or inactive seniors had an anecdote or memory of times with younger children shared in the City parks. These comments are available in the Appendices. IMPRESSIONS FROM SURVEY Defining needs by characteristics, values, and facilities, the survey revealed the following conclusions regarding parks and recreation: C Cleanliness is Number 1 C Maintenance is important - appearance is important to 80% - landscaping is important to 76% C People want to walk around nice places C Open space is a priority C More emphasis on access to walking and trails - current high usage C Activities for are youth important C Equipment for youth is less important C Wildlife, natural areas are high priorities C Views, location are valued C Safety is important - seems to relate to drug use and vandalism in parks C Form partnership with law enforcement V- Process.doc January, 1999 V -11 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN -that has consistency -that uses concept of community policing C Neighborhood parks are important C Landscaping is down on the list of priorities for new facilities C General satisfaction - city seems to know what to do well C Survey shows willingness to volunteer with time or money C The Recreation Program is very successful C Recreation Programs are reasonably priced C Senior activities are desired C More publicity is needed for City programs Despite low survey response or priority rating, the following conclusions were prevalent in the community process input: C Experience indicates need for more playfields. C Golf Course patrons are interested in course improvements, volunteerism, and participation in a management advisory committee. C Experience indicates people love the flower displays provided in City parks. C Cost of park facilities should be balanced with other City expenses. TABLE V -2 Population by Area v- Proeess.doe January. 1999 V-12 Percent of # Household Avg per Total Total Total Responses Responses Members Household Under Males Females 21 N/A 46 10.2% 97 2.11 23 43 51 Area A 187 41.5% 416 2.22 109 180 223 Area B 81 18.0% 204 2.52 62 97 105 Area C 137 30.4% 340 2.48 93 160 178 Totals 451 100% 1057 2.34 287 480 557 v- Proeess.doe January. 1999 V-12 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE V -3 Population Statistics Forecast of Current Population of Port 8366 Townsend Survey Sample 1057 13% Mean Age of the Population at the time of the Comprehensive Plan 40.2 Mean Age of the Survey Respondents 41.1 Current Number of people per household 2.3 Survey Number of people per Household 2.34 TABLE V -4 Population by Age Survey City Age Group Total Percent Comp Plan Variance Under 5 49 4.6% 5.4% -0.76% 5-15 158 14.9% 15.9% -0.95% 16 -17 43 4.1% 2.7% 1.37% 18 -20 35 3.3% 2.6% 0.71% 21 -24 20 1.9% 2.5% -0.61% 25 -44 230 21.8% 30.6% -8.84% 45 -54 205 19.4% 11.3% 8.09% 55 -59 71 6.7% 4.7% 2.02% 60 -64 63 6.0% 4.9% 1.06% 65 -74 99 9.4% 11.5% -2.13% 75 -84 62 5.9% 6.0% -0.13% 85 & Over 20 1.9% 2.0% -0.11% V- Process.doc January, 1999 V-13 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE V -5 Population by Age - Comparison with Comprehensive Plan Statistics V- Process.doc January, 1999 V-14 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE V -6 Q5 - Frequency of Park Use Statistics City Owned Parks Sometimes/ Rarely/ 1991 39.73% Often Never Ranking 75.67% Levinski Wetlands 17.15% 1 Chetzemoka 88.22% 11.78% 3 Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park 68.08% 31.92% 6 Pope Marine Park 67.48% 32.52% 19.42% Terrace Steps /Haller Fountain 63.62% 36.38% 8 City Dock 60.80% 39.20% 47.66% Pope Marine Park Building 44.32% 55.68% 61.61% Bell Tower 43.97% 56.03% Rothschild House Union Wharf 42.73% 57.27% Jackson Bequest Tidal Clock and Wave 37.19% 62.81% Viewing Gallery Undeveloped Open Space 2 Paths and Trails in City limits 45.98% 54.02% Undeveloped Beach access 39.73% 60.27% Undeveloped Street ends 24.33% 75.67% Levinski Wetlands 17.15% 82.85% Winona Wetlands 16.48% 83.52% County or State Park Fort Worden State Park 94.20% 5.80% 4 North Beach County Park 80.58% 19.42% Jefferson County Fairgrounds 77.33% 22.67% PT Comm Center (building) 62.95% 37.05% Memorial Athletic Field 47.66% 52.34% PT Comm Center (grounds) 38.39% 61.61% Courthouse park 22.54% 77.46% Rothschild House 16.74% 83.26% * 5 = City paths and trails *5 (1991) City Open Space V- Process.doc January, 1999 V-15 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE V- 7 Frequency of Park and Open Space Use by Area Sometimes or Often Households 187 81 137 46 451 Park A B C X Total Area Fort Worden State Park 93% 96% 96% 83% 94% A Point Hudson 93% 96% 96% 83% 94% A Chetzemoka 93% 90% 82% 83% 88% A Terrace Steps /Haller Fountain 93% 90% 82% 83% 88% A Fort Worden (boat launch) 83% 89% 71% 78% 80% A PT Comm Center (building) 76% 88% 73% 74% 77% A Pope Marine Park 72% 73% 60% 61% 67% A City Dock 67% 69% 69% 63% 68% A Memorial Athletic Field 72% 73% 60% 61% 67% A Pope Marine Park Building 63% 64% 69% 65% 65% A Bell Tower 71% 67% 58% 39% 63% A Union Wharf 59% 69% 67% 52% 63% A PT Comm Center (grounds) 68% 67% 53% 61% 63% A Swimming Pool 61% 73% 57% 48% 61% A Jackson Bequest Tidal Clock and Wave Viewing Gallery 57% 59% 60% 57% 58% A Monroe Street 47% 49% 48% 43% 47% A PT High School 43% 59% 45% 37% 46% A Bobby McGarraugh Park 51% 51% 32% 41% 44% A Golf Course 49% 44% 37% 41% 44% A Sather Park 45% 48% 39% 28% 42% A Courthouse park 40% 53% 35% 26% 39% A Mountain View Intermediate 40% 48% 31% 37% 38% A Adams Street Park 39% 38% 39% 33% 38% A Rotary Park 41%1 36% 34% 33% 37% A Rothschild House 36% 37% 34% 37% 36% A Gateway Triangle Mini -Park II 39% 30% 29% 33% 34% A Skateboard Facility 37% 35% 26% 22% 31% A North Beach County Park 27% 33% 28% 33% 29% B Jefferson County Fairgrounds 33% 22% 20% 22% 26% B Blue Heron Middle School 26% 32% 23% 9% 24% B Levinski Wetlands 25% 25% 19% 20% 22% B Winona Wetlands 24% 23% 20% 22% 22% B 35th. Street Park 17% 22% 28% 13% 21% B Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park 22% 27% 18% 11% 21% C Boat Haven 21% 25% 18% 11%1 20%1 C Grant Street Elementary 13% 37% 14% 9%1 17%1 C Bishop Park 20% 10% 18% 11%1 17%1 C V- Process.doc January, 1999 V- 16 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE V- 8 Q6. Respondents' Park Values Park Feature Very Important - Not important No response Important Important Cleanliness 87% 7% 1 % 6% Appearance 82% 8% 2% 9% Natural Areas 71% 9% 6% 14% Views 69% 15% 6% 10% Location 69% 12% 9% 10% Wildlife Habitat 66% 12% 6% 16% Safety 65% 12% 9% 13% Solitude 57% 19% 9% 15% Landscaping 54% 22% 10% 13% Great for Kids 48% 14% 20% 18% Parking 46% 21% 22% 11% Picnic Shelters 43% 24% 18% 15% Lighting 41% 18% 24% 17% Playgrounds 39% 18% 23% 19% Pet Free areas 34% 13% 32% 21% Community Events 32% 24% 26% 18% Off Leash Areas 31% 10% 39% 20% Playing Fields 31% 16% 30% 23% TABLE V -9 Q7. How important are the uses for Open Space? V- Process.doc January, 1999 V-17 Very - Not No response Important Important Wildlife Habitat 72% 8% 6% 14% Buffer between Uses 70% 11% 5% 14% Shoreline Access 70% 11% 5% 13% Wildlife Corridors 70% 9% 7% 15% Trails 68% 11% 6% 14% View 65% 15% 8% 13% Buffer between Neighborhoods 57% 14% 10% 19% Passive Recreation 55% 13% 7% 26% Stormwater 49% 18% 10% 23% containment /control V- Process.doc January, 1999 V-17 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE V -lo Q9. Walking & Bicycling Improvement Preferences IMPROVEMENTS Weighted score Continuous trails for non 115.20 motorists Sidewalk additions and 64.80 improvements On street bicycle lanes 56.40 painted Off - street bicycle trails 51.00 Pedestrian only trails 50.10 Good lighting 40.80 Information maps /routes 21.60 Education 19.50 Benches and Bike racks 13.80 On street bicycling without 9.30 painted lanes Other 7.20 Water Fountains 6.00 Signs 5.70 Horse trails 5.40 V- Process.doc January, 1999 V-19 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLES V -11 Q11. What activities are important to you? 1991 1996 1996 1991 1 1 Walking 81% 89% 2 2 Beach Combing 80% 75% leagues 3 Gardening 75% classes 5 4 Movies 70% 63% 6 5 Music concerts 70% 59% 6 Music 67% 7 7 Hiking 60% 56% 4 8 Picnicking 57% 65% 11 9 Bicycling 55% 44% 10 Camping 54% 12 11 Bird Watching 51% 43% 13 112 Theater 50% 42% 13 Cooking 49% 9 14 Swimming 49% 46% 15 Computers 45% 16 Art 45% 10 17 Boating 43% 45% 15 118 Crafts 42% 35% 19 Backpacking 41% 20 Classes 41% 3 N/A Television 74% 8 23 Saltwater Fishing 32% 49% 14 28 Spectator 29% 39% 16 127 Church Activities 29% 34% TABLE V -12 Q13. Most Important Recreation Services Weighted scores 1991 Recreation Service Ranking Youth programs 148.1 3 Seniors programs 72.9 Swimming 44.8 1 programs Youth /adult sports 40.9 2 leagues Information 27.8 classes Recreational 24.2 classes Arts and crafts 22 V- Process.doc January, 1999 V-19 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE V -13 Q15. Top Priorities for Further Development 1991 1996 47 Weighted scores Ranking Ranking 355 25 2 1 Trails for walking and exercise 73.2 19 2 Wildlife corridors 51.9 74% 3 Bike Lanes 49.5 3 4 Bicycling trails 45.9 To link neighborhoods etc. 5 Beach access developed 38.4 9% 6 Neighborhood parks 35.4 7 Mountain View Swimming Pool 35.4 8 Full size sports fields 15.9 9 Indoor Sporting facilities 14.1 10 Golf 13.8 11 Overnight camping facilities 11.7 12 Boat Launch facilities 11.4 13 Indoor weight room & exercise 10.8 equip. 14 Sport courts 8.1 15 Waterfront mooring buoys 7.8 16 Equip for rec activities 5.7 4. Indoor Swimming 1. Recreation facilities For Youth TABLE V -14 Q18 City Comp Plan Goals Total Agree Disagree No Opinion To protect the natural Environment etc. 430 320 47 63 To provide passive rec opportunities 431 355 25 51 To link neighborhoods etc. 436 379 19 38 Percentages To protect the natural Environment etc. 100% 74% 11% 15% To provide passive rec opportunities 100% 82% 6% 12% To link neighborhoods etc. 100% 87% 4% 9% Final "V- Process.doc December 20, 1998 V -20 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE V -15 Q20. Willingness to Volunteer Percentage of Responses 1996 16% 1991 Type of Volunteer Support Yes No Yes No Donate land for public use 5% 95% 93% Provide equipment 9% 91% 80% Provide financial support 36% 64% 64% Provide space for activities 5% 95% 91% Volunteer for parks support 53% 47% 60% Volunteer for recreational support 42% 58% TABLE V -16 Q19. Recreation Mission Statement Total Agree Responses Percentages Disagree No Opinion 439 389 15 35 100% 89% 3% 8% TABLE V -17 Q28. How well are special needs served? Very Well 68 16% Somewhat 104 24% Inadequately 48 11% Don't Know Total 218 50% 438 100% Final "V- Process.doc December 20, 1998 V -21 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE V -18 Financing Q21. Voluntary Financial Contribution on a Regular Basis Q22 - How do you think City recreation programs should be financed? Income Yes No Need Info Not regularly Open space acquisition 15% 40% 21% 24% Parks 10% 38% 24% 27% Recreation 9% 41% 24% 26% Trails 16% 37% 22% 25% Q22 - How do you think City recreation programs should be financed? Income Part Tax / part user Tax Dollars User fee only fee only Total 47% 18% 36% Less Than 59% 32% 9% $10,000 $10,000 to 66% 20% 14% $19,999 $20,000 to 78% 10% 11% $34,999 $35,000 to 64% 17% 19% $49,999 $50,000 or more 1 81% 1 7% 11% Final "V - Process.doc December 20, 1998 V -22 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE V -19 Income verses Employment Status Q29 / Q30 Percentages of all responses 10,000 20,000 35,000 Total <$10,000 19,999 34,999 49,999 >50,000 Full Time 45% 1% 6% 14% 11% 14% Part -Time 17% 2% 4% 7% 3% 2% Seasonally 3% 0% 1% 1% 1% 1% Not Currently Employed 4% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% Student 1% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% Retired 32% 3% 7% 11% 7% 4% Total 100% 6% 18% 34% 23% 21% Q29 /Q30 Percentages by category Full Time Total 100% <$10,000 2% 10,000 19,999 12% 20,000 34,999 31% 35,000 49,999 25% >50,000 30% Part -Time 100% 9% 21% 39% 17% 14% Seasonally 100% 0% 18% 27% 36% 18% Not Currently Employed 100% 13% 20% 33% 20% 13% Student 100% 0% 0% 50% 50% 0% Retired 100% 9% 23% 36% 21% 12% Total 100% 6% 18% 34% 23% 21% Final "V- Process.doc December 20, 1998 V -23 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE V -20 Household Financing versus Annual Income Q23 - Your maximum household budget for recreation programs? Q16 - Are rec programs too expensive? $0 Less than $50 $51 to $100 $101 to $201 or Less Than $10,000 42% 58% $10,000 to $19,999 $200 more $20,000 to $34,999 32% 29% 24% 8% 8% Less Than $10,000 37% 32% 26% 5% 0% $10,000 to $19,999 20% 33% 34% 9% 3% $20,000 to $34,999 9% 41% 31% 13% 5% $35,000 to $49,999 8% 29% 37% 17% 8% $50,000 or more 4% 18% 36% 22% 20% Q16 - Are rec programs too expensive? Final "V - Process.doc December 20, 1998 V -24 Yes No TOTAL 25% 75% Less Than $10,000 42% 58% $10,000 to $19,999 26% 74% $20,000 to $34,999 16% 84% $35,000 to $49,999 13% 88% $50,000 or more 16% 84% Final "V - Process.doc December 20, 1998 V -24 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Community Input PUBLIC MEETINGS The first major public meeting was February 10, 1997, where the preliminary survey results were presented and public input was solicited. The second public meeting was scheduled as a joint meeting of the Parks, Recreation, and Property Committee of City Council and the Parks and Recreation Commission on September 17, 1997. The City of Port Townsend Planning Commission held a workshop on the draft in October, 1997. In 1998, a revised draft was submitted to the Park, Recreation and Property Committee of the City Council and the Park and Recreation Commission with a public workshop on August 21, 1998. The Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed the draft at a regular Commission meeting on September 2, 1998. Other public meetings were held in September, October and November 1998 to review the revised draft with the Planning Commission and the Parks and Recreation Commission recommending adoption of the Plan. The City Council held a public hearing and adopted the Plan in January, 1999. PT2020 This community visioning process resulted in a report collating the results into a community vision statement that has been adopted in the 1996 Comprehensive Plan. 1996 COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING PROCESS Through development of goals and policies for parks, recreation, open space, trails and environmentally sensitive areas, the Land Use Committee formed in the Comprehensive Planning process, publicly addressed parks and recreation level of service, existing facility and CFP issues. This committee took public comment at each stage of development of the Comprehensive plan. These goals and policies provide the direction of this functional plan. The additional recommendation from the Planning Commission was for the Public Works Department to provide the specifics of park and recreation planning, including detailed park -type definition and level of service recommendations in this functional plan. PUBLISHED ARTICLES The following articles were published in local newspapers during the planning process often in conjunction with public meetings regarding the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Functional Plan: Biolo,ist Tees Off on Golfs Hazards to Frogs, Peninsula Daily News, 11/10/97 2. Transfer of Parks from County to City Letter: Jefferson County Board of Commissioners, 12/1/97 Instructions for Open Space Agricultural Applications Open Space Taxation Act: Enacted 1970 Final /V- Process.doc December 20, 1998 V -25 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 4. Where Are Your Children? Peninsula Daily News; Opinion, 4/11/97 5. P.T. Park Plan Directs Future. The Leader 6. 86 da Rec Rats, The Noise, Editorial 7. Letter to citizens selected for survey to help plan parks & recreation facilities. Office of the Mayor, 11/4/96 8. Letter accompanying Parks & Recreation Survey. Office of the Mayor, 11/12/96 9. Reminder letter to survey participants Office of the Mayor, 12/17/96 10. Input Sought on City Park Plan, The Leader, 12/10/96 11. Planning, Peninsula Daily News, 12/10/96 12. Parks, Wildlife top P. T . Survey, Peninsula Daily News, 2/11/97 13. Parks Survey Results Released, The Leader, 2/5/97 OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE PARTICIPATION This committee, made up of staff, City Council Members, and Parks and Recreation Commission representatives, met almost every two weeks beginning in August, 1996. The group was responsible for the goals and direction of the survey development, met to review the survey response data, and developed a park and recreation strategy. This strategy provided direction for the action recommendations, capital improvements, long term capital facilities acquisition and development plan and operations and maintenance standards through continued work with the Oversight Committee. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION Members of the Parks and Recreation Commission were invited to participate with the Oversight Committee and the City Council in an all day visioning workshop in late March, 1997. The workshop format continued in 3 -4 hour blocks throughout the year until the second open public workshop in September. Throughout the planning process, Commission participation was encouraged as each members' time permitted. The Parks and Recreation Commission as a whole was kept informed at regular monthly Commission meetings. Final /V- Process.doc December 20, 1998 V -26 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN VI. RECOMMENDATIONS/ ACTION PLAN PARKS * RECREATION * OPEN SPACE with * CAPITAL FACILITIES PLAN and * FINANCING OPTIONS "You can find the index of civilized thinking in what we are willing to do for tomorrow." - Bertrand Russell VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -I CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN INTRODLiCTION The following conclusions, recommendations and capital facilities plan were developed from the 1996 survey response, committee participation and public comments. This section is intended to provide more specific policy direction for park, recreation and open space planning and to establish a list of specific priority actions to implement the goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan. DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL STANDARDS The National Recreation and Parks Association developed park and recreation facilities standard recommendations in 1983 in Recreation, Park and Open Space Standards and Guidelines. The publication of those standards stressed that the recommendations were to be used as a guide representing minimum not maximum goals for most communities. Most of the parks and recreation plans developed in the 1990's in the Puget Sound region use these standards as a beginning basis to develop local standards. Since that time, the Association has revisited and revised the use of standards based on the individuality of each community through a systems approach to planning as presented in Park, Recreation, Open Space, and Greenway Guidelines, NRPA 1995. Therefore, in deference to this uniqueness, due to differing geographical, cultural, social, economic, and environmental characteristics, each community must select a level of service guideline which they can live with in terms of their community setting ... the selection of a numerical guideline can be intuitively arbitrary or as mathematically precise as possible or somewhere in between. In addition to updating the acreage calculations in the Comprehensive Plan, the functional plan is intended to specifically define park facilities by and park -type and refine the level of service (LOS) by park -type. The NRPA recommends that the LOS be practicable and achievable while providing equal opportunity for access to all citizens. Resources must be allocated equitably throughout the community while reflecting changes in level of demand for park and recreation resources. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -3 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN PLANNING FOR FUTURE PARKS PARK TYPE DEFINITIONS The existing conditions analysis establishes an inventory and analysis of parks based on three definitions of type park facilities currently in use by the NRPA and other cities in the region. The definitions are based broadly on the type of amenity, size and function in the landscape that is provided and have been tailored to meet the needs of this community. The definitions of pocket parks, urban open space, neighborhood parks and community parks are applied to currently existing facilities in the City of Port Townsend in order to provide detailed analysis of the existing local level of service for city parks. RESIDENTIAL AREAS. COMMUNrrY PARKS are defined as having a citywide service area with focus on natural features such as Kah Tai Lagoon Park or sports facilities of fifteen acres or more. NRPA standards indicate one community park should be available within 3 miles of each neighborhood. Port Townsend is rich with unique landscapes and natural features in public ownership that may provide additional opportunities for community park development. These heavily forested areas are unlikely to be compatible for development of play fields or sport courts, but other park amenities associated with community parks could be provided within an acre or two of available land adjoining the special feature area. As the more rural areas of the City experience new development, consideration must be given to preserving these special natural features. Port Townsend has no community type parks that provide large areas of multiple play fields, picnic areas, playgrounds and other recreational opportunities in a single facility. These needs are currently met through small, dispersed city and county parks and school facilities. The City should remain flexible and develop partnerships with respect to this type of future park development NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS are defined as having over 1 acre of land, restrooms, picnic shelter, children, s play area, parking, and a sport court or play field . This is considerably smaller than the size range used in other cities in the region and the NRPA recommends five acres or more per park. This smaller local definition reflects an adequate standard for Port Townsend that is consistent with the high satisfaction level regarding neighborhood parks in the 1996 survey. Bobby McGarraugh Park is one example of a typical neighborhood park for the City of Port Townsend. Other City parks that provide these amenities are Chetzemoka and Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park, though they are distinct in their settings and have a higher community draw. 35th Street Park is currently undeveloped but is scheduled for phased improvements by the year 2000, which will include these type of amenities. Pope Marine, Sather, Courthouse and North Beach parks also meet most of the criteria, filling the town with neighborhood recreational VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -4 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN opportunities. Table 11-6, with recommended service levels, was developed to assess which facilities met the neighborhood park criteria described above. The service area of each existing neighborhood park is defined as the area within a 1-� mile radius of the park without a principal arterial street crossing. The '/z mile access requirements are consistent with other regional cities and the NRPA guidelines. This distance represents the distance an average person covers in a 15 minute walk. Though streets designated as "minor arterial" in the City of Port Townsend are not considered boundaries to access, Sims Way (State Route 20) is recognized as a principal arterial and by configuration and traffic load creates a pedestrian boundary to park access. The four schools are shown in blue on the Neighborhood Park Service Areas Map Figure VI -1 with 1/2 -mile radii because they each meet a substantial portion of the criteria. These facilities provide specific opportunities for recreation to some neighborhoods not served by city parks though public access to school facilities is limited to non - school hours. RESIDENTIAL OPEN SPACE is represented by traditional open spaces such as Redmen's Cemetery and provides aesthetic values to existing neighborhoods that currently lack park facilities but are not intended as recreational facilities. These areas are not counted in any LOS consideration but are listed in the Open Space Inventory, Section VI. Useable open space in residential development is defined in the Comprehensive Plan as an outdoor area which is of appropriate size, shape and siting to provide for recreational activity. Usable open space may be occupied by sculpture, fountains or pools, benches or other outdoor furnishings, or by recreational facilities such as playground equipment, swimming pools, and game courts. This definition has been implemented at Hamilton Heights and Lynnesfield PUDs (see Open Space, Section VI for facility analysis) The Comprehensive Plan definition also addresses private open space as usable outdoor space directly accessible to a unit, with use restricted to the occupants of that unit. Private open spaces can include but should not be limited to children's play areas. Where children's play areas are included in development proposals, these areas should meet safety standards in design and construction. COMMERCIAL AND MANUFACTURING AREAS POCKET PARKS or mini -parks provide visual and physical respite from the indoor urban environment. Pocket parks are defined as facilities that provide an open area where people can rest, watch and eat in pleasant surroundings with a few simple amenities. These areas offer some landscaping or vegetated natural areas, trash cans, benches with access to beaches, views or vistas where possible. Port Townsend' s pocket parks provide urban open space along the Waterwalk, in the downtown Historic District and in outlying commercial and industrial areas. The target users are a wide VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -5 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN variety of employees, customers, visitors, and youth. Other facilities such as trailheads, waypoints, and stormwater facilities also add to the small town atmosphere, provide habitat links, and serve as mini -parks in some neighborhoods. USEABLE OPEN SPACE for commercial development is defined by Comprehensive Plan as an outdoor area which is of appropriate size, shape and siting to provide for recreational activity. Usable open space may be occupied by sculpture, fountains or pools, benches or other outdoor furnishings, or by recreational facilities such as playground equipment, swimming pools, and game courts. Private open spaces can include but should not be limited to children's play areas. Where children's play areas are included in development proposals, these areas should meet safety standards in design and construction. Useable open space has been provided at the Port Townsend Business Park and Jefferson General Hospital. REGIONAL FACILITIES STATE PARKS provide a variety of facilities and features to the public of a large region. They do not take the place of neighborhood or community parks. NRPA recommends a minimum size of 250 acres and access to a state park within a one hour drive of the community. Port Townsend's spectacular setting has been well recognized by the State protection, preservation, and recreational development of the three forts that formerly guarded the entrance to Puget Sound. These military waterfront complexes date from the early twentieth century and feature vintage Victorian buildings, large fields, wooded trails, and water access, drawing a large regional population to the Port Townsend area. NATIONAL PARKS including mountains and seashores are usually sighted for their special natural features rather than to meet any planning goal. Port Townsend is again set in spectacular surroundings that include several access points to the Olympic National Park and Dungeness National Recreation Area within an hour's drive SPECIFIC STANDARDS FOR CITY PARKS The City of Port Townsend's level of service standards for parks is multi - layered. The gross amount of City park acreage per person adopted in 1996 is described below. In addition to this standard, park type and service area definitions are combined to form a secondary and more specific level of service standard for neighborhood parks. Existing condition analysis and implementation strategies to reach the secondary level of service are discussed in the recommendations. 10 ITV-110A 19 1] 04 so I 04M1 MA a 9 KIM 0 *TA of WO OM *TA Eel M FRO 17.11 1] M The 1996 Comprehensive Plan adopted a level of service (LOS) for park facilities as 7.6 of acres per 1000 capita. This figure reflects the current level of service based on the 1993 population of 7,755 and ownership of 59 acres of park land. Population increases projected through the years VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - Vt -6 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 2001 and 2016 were used to assess the surplus and deficiencies of park land based on the adopted LOS. The LOS for park land focused on City -owned park land only. This was done to distinguish specifically between current and future LOS requirements for City park land. The LOS represents park land available to residents owned and controlled by the City versus park land owned and controlled by other entities such as the Port Townsend School District, Jefferson County or the State of Washington. Park Property in City ownership in 1998 = 74.6 acres Park Property maintained in 1998 = 59.3 acres Developed Acres per Capita = 6.9/1000 Total Acres per Capita = 8.7/ 1000 1996 Comprehensive Plan Adopted Acres per Capita Level of Service = 7.6 / 1000 EXISTING CONDITIONS For the purposes of developing the Comprehensive Plan levels of service standard, only the net useable park land was considered. The Port Townsend Golf Course (55.7 acres) and 40 acres of Kah Tai Lagoon water area were not included in the acreage though the extensive tidelands at Chetzemoka are included. The result is a total of 74.4 acres of City park ownership and approximately 59.3 acres developed currently maintained by the Public Works Department. Two facilities totaling 0.3 acres have been added to the capital facilities inventory since the 1994 inventory prepared for the Comprehensive Plan. These facilities are the Skateboard Park and Union Wharf. Six acres at 35th Street Park and 9.2 acres of the Larry Scott Memorial Trail have been acquired through cooperative agreements with Jefferson County and the Port of Port Townsend. At this time 35th Street Park has not been developed and the Larry Scott Trailhead Park is not maintained by the City. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - V1 -7 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE VI - 1 Level of Service Needs by Total Park Acreage Through 2016 Year City of Port Townsend Acres needed LOS Acres Available Net Reserve Population (est.) @ 7.6 per 1000 (deficiency) in people Acres 1993 7,755 59 7.6/1000 59 0 1997 8,580 65 6.9/1000 Developed 59.3 (5.7) 8.7/1000 Total 74.6 9.6 2001 9,494 72 7.7/1000 Developed *73.5 1.5 7.8/1000 Total 74.6 2.6 2016 10,460 79.4 6.9/1000 Developed *73.5 (6.1) 7.1/1000 Total 74.6 (4.8) *Assumes development of 35th Street Park and maintenance at Larry Scott Trailhead Park. 1. RECOMMENDATION FOR FUTURE LEVEL OF SERVICE Based on projected future population estimates and using the 7.6 acres /1000 people level of service standard, Table VI -1 shows historical figures for 1993 and 1997 as well as projected reserves or deficiencies in meeting this standard for the years 2001 and 2016. The City should continue to use this LOS standard as an overall goal for the City of Port Townsend. Table VI -1 indicates a deficit appearing between 2001 and 2016. The park type LOS analysis should be used to identify specific goals that are unmet and develop capital facilities recommendations to meet the future demand. ROLE OF PARK TYPE IN FACILITY PLANNING The goals and policies of the 1996 Comprehensive Plan suggest that equitable access to park and recreation facilities throughout the City are important aspects of the local quality of life. Three types of developed City park facilities currently exist in the City of Port Townsend, community parks, neighborhood parks, and pocket parks. The definitions are based broadly on type of amenity, size, and function in the landscape that existing facilities provide in Port Townsend and on the National Recreation and Parks Association Guidelines, 1995 (NR-PA). These definitions and accessibility standards represent the recommended level of service standard for parks for the City of Port Townsend. Local use patterns and the community's service expectations (1996 Parks and Recreation Survey responses, Section V, Process) were used to create a park type level of service expectation for the City of Port Townsend. These parameters were combined with a standard for accessibility that reflects a reasonable walking distance for commercial and residential types of uses. This concept VI- Recommendations.doc January. 1999 - VI -8 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN refines the basic service standard set in acres per capita in the 1996 Comprehensive Plan while using the gross LOS as a continuing guideline through the GMA 20 -year planning period as shown in Table VI -2. This analysis indicates development of new park facilities to meet a park type LOS is compatible with the gross acreage LOS. 2. DEVELOPMENT OF MORE SPECIFIC STANDARD While the gross acreage level of service is a reasonable overall standard, it does not address the need for specific park and open space facility types or the needs for equitable access to park and recreation facilities for all residents throughout the City. Existing city, county and school facilities, are identified on FigureVI -1. The areas of Port Townsend that are not within one half mile of an existing neighborhood facility are indicated by cross hatching. Figure VI -1 shows that several residential areas of the City have ready access to many park facilities, while some areas have no easy access. In order to provide equitable access to neighborhood parks, pocket parks and useable open space the City should implement more specific levels of service when planning for future parks. 3. RESIDENTIAL LEVEL OF SERVICE The service area of each existing neighborhood park is '/z mile from the center of the existing facility that is considered an average walking distance for neighborhood park users. Though streets designated as "minor arterial" in the City of Port Townsend are not considered boundaries to access, Sims Way, State Route 20, is recognized here by configuration and traffic load as a boundary for pedestrian park access. Neighborhood park service areas are shown on Figure VI -1. Figure VI -3, Capital Facilities Plan shows city owned land proposed for future neighborhood park development. The City should implement this plan to help meet this level of service for neighborhood parks. 4. GENERAL STANDARD FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT Also shown in Figure VI -1 is the 1996 zoning designation. The zoning adopted in the Comprehensive Plan dedicates large areas of the western portion of the City for multi - family residential clusters and neighborhood commercial use. These areas zoned for multi - family development are only partially served by existing or proposed neighborhood facilities. The gross LOS was intended to be a general guideline and did not address the need for specific park facility types or the need for equitable access to park and recreation facilities for all residents throughout the City. While maintaining a gross acreage target of 7.6 acres per 1000 capita, this plan recommends provision of additional facilities for new development in the multi- family residential zones. The City should recognize the importance of on -site private open space in new residential complexes as a separate and additional requirement from the neighborhood park level of service as recommended by the NRPA Guidelines. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -9 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN For any residential development within the City where a PUD, multi - family or subdivision is proposed, or where the development is subject to SEPA , the City should develop criteria by City ordinance that will require some amount of usable open space. As an alternative, the recommended action is to provide an allowance for development to pay fees in lieu of dedication to the City to either purchase land or to provide recreational amenities that service the particular development. This fee or dedication would be in addition to the existing neighborhood park service area that the new development is within. 5. STANDARD FOR AREAS WITHIN' /2 MILE OF A SCHOOL ONLY AND AREAS NOT SERVED BY 1 W41 l 0 10100N 9:-03 01-13IXG N 11•/ 7I'MM! As shown on Figure VI -1, two types of deficiencies have been defined in Port Townsend. Each of the four schools are shown in blue on the Neighborhood Park Service Areas Map with a 1/2- mile radius because these facilities provide specific opportunities for recreation to some neighborhoods not served by city parks. However the public access to school facilities is limited to non - school hours. Figure VI -2 shows that some areas will not meet the level of service standard for access to neighborhood parks within the proposed capital facilities plan. For both of these types of service deficiency, the City should develop criteria by ordinance that could require dedication of some amount of usable open space. An alternative to dedication should be an allowance for new development to pay fees in lieu of dedication to the City. The City would then either purchase land or to provide recreational amenities that service the particular development to the level of service standard listed above, i.e. '/z mile radius of all residences. G�N9[K1L/Q1101017. 119 11AnOC11ta0 1111 1111 1]W01133 /[y9 .1I] .Wer:11 R161.1K The existing residential structures were counted and multiplied by the current average population per household. Table VI -2 shows existing facility distribution in relation to existing neighborhood populations. This exercise is used to estimate current level of service in "residents per park area" for each facility. Where park service areas coincided, the existing population numbers were split between each facility within the area of overlap. The same analysis was done using the 1996 zoning changes to define a potential future (20 year) build -out scenario for each service area. This number is compared to the existing population in that service area to estimate comparative impacts of future development on each park. While this plan does not attempt to establish a future level of service standard based on potential population served per park area, this information is provided for informational purposes and should be further analyzed and refined in future plan updates. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -10 N W �Q H a) c `o s O a) T a) s a) O O a) O) a3 a) U a) U Y U a3 a) O 6 a LO O LO (O O O 00 U N O CO 00 _IL U C Cl) O O O O LO N 00 O LO cc O N N V CO a) � O 0 � O LO (O LO LO C. 0 0 o ° a) 0 O CL O - co 00 LO co (O 00 I— O O O 00 LO C4 C4 C4 CO C4 N V C YC U) O L .N a c. a) LO N CO LO (O LO LO (3) (3) 00 00 (3) C (O O N O O O O LO LO V N 00 O O O 00 O O N CO 00 V V O 00 O N R '+� V N co 00 a) + La O- !_ 7 (1) C. cc ° a) O CL c. LLa (1) Q- 1— 1— V O CO I— O 00 O 00 V LO 00 O co O LO CO = N V O O O 1— LO co (O O C O V V LO LO LO N V (O N V CO LO N (C) Z a> U cc a3 co Q La 0) C. Q cB La O 00 (O U) LO 00 V LO N 00 00 (O 00 (O 00 y cc V V co V V co co V N V N V L acc Lri Lri Lri Lri LO N O O O O LO v T a� LO N CO O) (O N LO (O CO CO N N _ L LO N O ('7 (h Li 1 a� O) O) LO co co co N I— LO co (O 00 V 00 ++ 00 V V ('7 (O co 00 I— co O) V 00 O CO U) 7 N co V V LO CO O) CO LO CO O a) O) O I— CO � •c 'a La N N O O Sao La O) co V O (O O 00 00 O LO N LO O N U) O) ('7 O O V CO = O) co (O co co I— 1— LO � N N co N O) N N O) V + C (D a = V C = 0) C a) y 0) O C d R N O (O N I— V V O) (O CO V co (O O) N O) = V CO N O) (O 1— O) N O LO CO N (O N N N N 0 N N N N C ._ N_ a) K W a O) N N (D Lo. (O N a) Ln N Q L v O a Q 0 0 o � I > a) Y _l Y co O 0 0 7 m� O O M N m O D U E a) a) H = .0 ,Us E _ SU c�YU�YYC�UYCO�Zm co m a) azLL Q QQC)< <0— 0- mmm0-b�C)C) a) c `o s O a) T a) s a) O O a) O) a3 a) U a) U Y U a3 a) O 6 a E U - zz; (3) o ai Q U rx O a) U C Cl) O N � I I i O C O) O O) O -0 a3 — O a) � i a) a) � O 0 � O O � � U O 0 o ° `m a) 6 a i U - zz; (3) o ai Q U rx CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 7. RECOMMENDATION FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT Pocket parks are often associated with commercial zones in the City of Port Townsend. These facilities generally meet the Comprehensive Plan definition of "usable open space" as "an outdoor area which is of appropriate size shape and siting to provide for recreational activity. Port Townsend' s pocket parks provide urban open space along the Waterwalk, in the downtown Historic District and in outlying commercial and industrial areas. The target users are a wide variety of employees, customers, visitors, and youth. Other facilities such as trailheads, waypoints, and stormwater facilities also add to the small town atmosphere, provide habitat links, and serve as mini -parks in some neighborhoods without access to larger neighborhood parks. Urban open space similar to the city owned pocket parks and small undeveloped open space areas shown on Figure VI -3 provide visual and physical respite from the indoor urban environment in commercial corridors of Port Townsend. Pocket parks are valued as facilities that provide an open area where people can rest, watch and eat in pleasant surroundings with a few simple amenities. These areas often simply offer some landscaping or vegetated natural areas, trash cans, benches with access to beaches, views or vistas where possible. Private open spaces can include but should not be limited to children's play areas. Where children's play areas are included in development proposals, these areas should meet safety standards in design and construction. In addition to the existing and potential public pocket parks, new neighborhood commercial and manufacturing developments are encouraged through Comprehensive Plan Goals to provide on- site parks and open space for recreational use. The City should recognize the importance of on- site private open space in commercial / manufacturing complexes as a separate and additional requirement from the neighborhood park level of service as recommended by the NRPA Guidelines. 8. GENERAL STANDARD FOR COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT Figure VI -1 shows multi - family and neighborhood commercial zoning. Many of these as yet undeveloped areas are not served by public pocket parks. The NRPA recommends a set -aside of 25% of the development area of multi - family and commercial development for recreational use as a minimum standard. Analysis of existing commercial planned unit developments (PUD) and residential PUD developments' open space dedication shows an existing variation between 14% and 76% of the project acreage. The average of the set -aside percentage was calculated at approximately 37% of the site acreage. These numbers reflect a local historic basis on which to recommend adoption of a local standard for site development in future implementing ordinances. The City should adopt a standard percentage set aside for new development. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -12 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE VI -3 Relation of Commercial/ Manufacturing Zones to Pocket Parks 9. PUBLIC DEVELOPMENT OF POCKET PARKS Figure VI -2 shows the major employment centers, areas of commercial multi- family zoning and existing facilities that serve these urban centers. These values are shown in TableVI -3. Analysis of Figure VI -2 also shows that the Sims Way commercial district and the Sheridan Street - Hospital Zone area do not have the same density of public open space as does the Downtown or Uptown Historic Districts. The City has identified or purchased properties along the Sims Way Corridor that may be developed in the future as City pocket pocks. 10. PROVISION OF PEDESTRIAN ACCESS TO URBAN OPEN SPACES The Historic Districts are served by several special areas set -aside as pocket parks owned by public agencies. While this represents the desired conditions for the entire city, the local VI- Recommendations.doc January. 1999 - V1_13 Acres # of Parks Area Commercial Pocket per Considerations Zone Parks Acre 1. Downtown District 34.4 10 1/3.4 This district has considerable overlap Historic Commercial along the scenic Waterwalk Zone 2. Uptown Historic 9.1 2 1/4.5 Commercial Zone 3. Sims Way (Sheridan 92.3 4 1/23 to City Limits not including Business Park) 4. Hospital Commercial 12.1 2 1/7 District 5. San Juan and F 6.4 0 Golf Course is not accessible to public Neighborhood Mixed at this area Use 6. Hastings and 9.9 0 City owns property at this intersection Howard Neighborhood Mixed Use 7. 49th and Jackman 3 2 1 / 1.5 Proximity to State Park and Neighborhood Mixed Fairgrounds skews comparison Use Transient moorage, restrooms 8. Port of Port 93.6 3 w /showers, Waterwalk, and Townsend Boat Haven recreational boat ramp make this a major recreational facility. 9. PUBLIC DEVELOPMENT OF POCKET PARKS Figure VI -2 shows the major employment centers, areas of commercial multi- family zoning and existing facilities that serve these urban centers. These values are shown in TableVI -3. Analysis of Figure VI -2 also shows that the Sims Way commercial district and the Sheridan Street - Hospital Zone area do not have the same density of public open space as does the Downtown or Uptown Historic Districts. The City has identified or purchased properties along the Sims Way Corridor that may be developed in the future as City pocket pocks. 10. PROVISION OF PEDESTRIAN ACCESS TO URBAN OPEN SPACES The Historic Districts are served by several special areas set -aside as pocket parks owned by public agencies. While this represents the desired conditions for the entire city, the local VI- Recommendations.doc January. 1999 - V1_13 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN standard for commercial and multi - family pocket park set - asides isn't expected to meet this special condition. However, recommendations from adopted plans, summarized in Section 1, Introduction, are based on the expectation that all commercial development and redevelopment can be focused to encourage pedestrian access through design standards. Trail connections that provide links with other neighborhoods, parks, and activity centers should be included in new development through engineering standards, development, and municipal codes. These planning recommendations should be implemented for new development through City ordinances. 11. PROVISION OF TOURIST FACILITIES Residential growth is not the only foreseeable impact to park services. The City's ability to provide adequate tourist facilities such as restrooms, transient parking, interpretive services, and shoreline access for pedestrians and boaters is experiencing increasing seasonal demand. Extensive promotion through the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (formerly the Tourism Advisory Group) has been effective in increasing the length of the visitor season beyond the traditional summer months. Increases in tourist visits to Port Townsend will continue to increase demand on City park facilities and services. These demands are likely to center along the Waterwalk, along the Gateway Corridor, and in relation to the Golf Course and Fort Worden State Park and Conference Center. This increase in demand for service should be analyzed and included in future park planning. Use by visitors of City facilities is not well documented through the impacts are documented in the increased maintenance hours need by park crews for clean -up. Future analysis of impacts on the Parks Department operations and maintenance should account for increase in use by non- residents. 12. PRIORITIES FOR PARK ACQUISITION The following priorities should guide future acquisition for Port Townsend's parks, recreation and open space: • Secure the integrity of existing parks with adjacent parcel acquisition for Kah Tai and Bobby McGarraugh Parks. • Purchase new park land in order to anticipate and meet deficiencies in neighborhood park service. Acquire park and open space land through 1. Direct acquisition 2. Joint funding with stormwater or other utilities and 3. Where legally permissible, require dedication of park land or fees in lieu of dedication to mitigate direct impacts of development 13. PRIORITIES FOR PARK DEVELOPMENT The following priorities should guide future development of Port Townsend's parks, recreation and open space: VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -14 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN • The City should take a phased approach to implementation based on the projected growth and specific types of funding available over the next five to ten years. • Develop recreational facilities in partnership with other entities. • Develop additional neighborhood parks in a phased manner as growth increases demands in areas not currently served by park facility. • Develop properties and areas identified in the CFP. 14. REGARDING COUNTY PARKS WITHIN CITY LIMITS Properties owned by Jefferson County are included in the Service Area Analysis above. The City should continue dialog with Jefferson County regarding change of ownership and management responsibilities on these properties within the City limits should Jefferson County wish to divest interest in the following properties to maintain the current level of access to neighborhood park facilities in the City: • North Beach • Community Center • Memorial Field • Courthouse park/ sport courts [Mite] 111010 lei VXG 'Well Y11• /711N:M1]1►I /11RI]W0I Diem l The City should use the following policies to develop neighborhood parks • The park has characteristic amenities more substantial than pocket parks and over one acre in size. • The park includes recreational facilities focused on informal and passive activities. • The park develops in accordance with a master site plan in consideration of the specific site conditions, neighborhood characteristics, and recreational goals. • Park amenities should be provided in a phased manner with neighborhood build -out and as the facility use increases. 1. Initially amenities may be limited to trash cans, tables, and benches. Areas for solitude, informal play fields, or natural areas are the main draw for park users. 2. As use increases the next phase of improvements includes water faucets, picnic shelters, play area for children, parking, and restroom. • Play areas should meet safety standards in design and construction. Rock and log assemblages are preferred over conventional play equipment to lower costs and enhance natural characteristics of the site. • Play facilities should include informal play fields and sport courts as the site characteristics allow and when funding becomes available. • Amenities should provide a feeling of security and safety while providing areas of solitude as additional amenities are provided. • To accommodate a broad use of the facility while preserving and protecting neighborhood characteristics the City should adopt an off street parking standard by ordinance for neighborhood park facilities based on a guidelines from around the nation as compiled in NRPA, 1983. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -15 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 16. POCKET PARKS The City should work with neighborhood groups to create and maintain small park facilities. The City should identify areas of opportunity for acquisition and development of pocket parks in existing commercial areas in the near future. fU�K1Z111 ]111►/:11YWeEl1W01;il1111►1YYIV Multi- agency coordination with school district long range planning is essential to maximize land acquisition opportunities. Combined usage of recreational facilities should be recognized as good public stewardship and these partnerships continued. The City should seek partnerships and acquisition opportunities outside current city limits through multi - agency cooperative agreements to maximize facility development opportunities on a regional basis. Partnership potential between the city and other agencies is important for: • joint land acquisition, • joint use or operation of facilities to meet community need, • identification of under used facilities, • joint sponsorship of facility development. Close proximity of Mountain View Elementary School and Blue Heron Middle School to extensive wetland areas provides mutual benefits of open space protection and educational opportunities in these natural classrooms; however school safety and controlled access considerations should preclude development of new parks adjacent to school facilities. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -16 Strait of Juan de Fuca Marine - Related Designations M-11(A) (Boat Haven) Marine Related Uses M-11(B) (Point Hudson) Marine Related Uses Park and Open Space Designations P /OS Existing Park or Open Space P /OS (A) Potential Park or Open Space P /OS(B) Public / Mixed Use Other Designations P -I Public / Infrastructure Potential Open Space Connections (to be coordinated with Jefferson County) Figure VI -I Neighborhood Park Service Areas Outside Neighborhood Park Service Area Outside Neighborhood Park Service Area but Within a 1/2 Mile of School Residential Designations R -I(SF) up to 4 d.u. per acre (Min. 10,000 sq. ft. lot) R -II(SF) up to 8 d.u. per acre (Min. 5,000 sq. ft. lot) R -IIIW up to 16 d.u. per acre R -IVW 17 -24 d.u. per acre Commercial Designations C -I Neighborhood Commercial - C -II General Commercial - C -H(H) Hospital Commercial C -III Historic Commercial Mixed Use Designations = M -C Mixed Commercial / Light Manufacturing C -I/MU Neighborhood Serving Mixed Use Center = C -I[/MU Community Serving Mixed Use Center G[TY OF PORT TOWNSEND VI -17 PARKS AND RECREATION FUNCTIONAL PLAN 1998 ♦'s . -* s.aj'. ''.�a'i '•r tea• -`a`,. gyp; \j aa`' a' \� ' '.' Loin ~> ' • ar'• ` La. � �\ t ". \`. • ' �♦ �`aL� "�•' ,•ar• •'` � ' •� ', '. ���, e•�i i a ... : is a i � 'l ■' _ ,+ - oa \ .t. ` : \tor i F_d�� -r•�� 1- : °'. �,• •'s it • � . n ,rte „,.� _ ' � � w • � +• \t • ■' � z� a e a 1 i .• _- - I_ � r r r L I 7.• -BI• ••• .I.L a• 1 „ w■ !■r 4 yy1 • � is ernan� � r r . ■ � � r ,, 1 .$u ♦ . 11.71 �� -� ! _rti� •.. 1' ■ • _ • • '--- + • � 1r a - r+� �• r r .. 1 •�~ tip • . _ L ��� 11 : ue !1 ♦ ,r .• 7 r - ■ + r L ' ... -`L,',11 ,,11- R' v - L ! - ± • ■ ` ,/ . ♦ 0 eY i''■. • 1 Q - X11. Iii n. _ 7 ' �a w1 +" J. millf ` • L 1 1� : / i r11 _ �! � r~ 1, . r f • _ nr ♦U.�,U ~ ■ ■ � +a\ \ a 7 �'. ■ ■ �� r'1 �' 1•.1.� � � 1 � ,qua x�ox�m ;pus; ,� v + ,�� .' � _/ ; _Z � - - Lv•.. r - "� � ��' . i _�� ,� -.aH rR IF -s � �. €1 €_r• -r -1 :a. - ■-. B. r .. „�.. -■ L 7 B �' _'�a � • r i� 1r .ice.: r..LY 1 iIF. �4 6� 1 � a a 7 7La ,■ ■ ■, � 'a�e1s sera � ' �' -'` .rL1f� °��+ S w lJ• $ • _ a �� ♦ FE ■■- 1 j E � 4 a �'r � •• � � E E� r General area of dry land for Small neighborhood park at neighborhood park Levinski (2 to 10 acres) North Beach (Jefferson County) Develop purer a of City'. a neighborho perk - e (Rainier 0 h) di —1 c. _ � i Cpl City En ano develop s mi o adj acen or serve large neighborhood 91 Figure VI -3 Proposed Capital Facilities Plan for Neighborhood Parks N II Id lots on Cherry St. to bby McGarraugh Park store and construct ;mpll neighborhood park PT Community Center (Jefferson County) Courthouse Park (Jefferson County) Kah Tai Lagoon in holdings Larry Scott emorial Park y' Tra Head Access ails to Larry colt Memorial Park P /OS (A) Potential Park or Open Space Potential Open Space Connections (to be coordinated with Jefferson County) 0 P -I Public / Infrastructure 0 P /OS Existing Park or Open Space 0 P /OS(B) Public / Mixed Use Potential Mini Park or Neighborhood Facility Service Area Service Area - Existing Facilities CTI'Y OF PORT TOWNSEND VI -21 PARKS AND RECREATION FUNCTIONAL PLAN 1998 ... ... �. .... • .... . a �♦• • �' - - -- - - •emu ` =�' ��� , Figure VI -4 Walkway System Plan Multi -Use Trail .... Primary Neighborhood Connector Secondary Neighborhood Connector Shortcut a Waterwalk CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND VI -23 PARKS AND RECREATION FUNCTIONAL PLAN 1998 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS 18. The City should provide additional funding for: • Normal park maintenance @ 20 acres/FTE, • Development of a repair and replacement program, • Street Tree program development, • Trail maintenance 19. The City should seek additional funding and management partnerships to maintain the current level of operation and maintenance standards at these facilities should any of the parcels currently owned and operated by Jefferson County within the City of Port Townsend become the responsibility of the City. 20. User fees to City facilities are currently used to offset operations and maintenance costs at Chetzemoka and other facilities. This practice should be continued and expanded as deemed appropriate. 21. Volunteer efforts to enhance vegetation for aesthetic and habitat values are encouraged. CAPITAL FACILITIES PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS The projects proposed in Tables VI -2 and VI -3 Capital Facilities Plan (CFP), are described below along with potential funding sources for each project Flexibility is an important element in the capital facilities plan in consideration of the City property acquisition strategy. The following capital projects are intended to meet capacity needs of the community based on the Level of Service Recommendations for Parks. CURRENT (1998) CAPACITY PROJECTS The following projects are funded in the 1998 budget to meet current capital facility needs. CFP 1. 35th Street Park site planning and stormwater design has been on a slow -hold status relating to on -going basin analysis. CFP 2. Playground equipment has been removed from Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park on the recommendation of the City's risk management inspector. Staff is working with the Parks and Recreation Commission to design a naturalized rock assembly that compliments the park's nature area. Additional funding is proposed for the periodic upgrade of all play structures in City parks. CFP 3. Golf Course improvements are proposed for funding at the level of revenue generated to the City through the year 2002. These improvements should be developed in conjunction with a long term master site plan and business management plan and through the recommendations of a community advisory committee. Delineation of the wetland area is proposed in the 1998 budget. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -25 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN CFP 4. Larry Scott Trailhead Park restrooms will be constructed by the Port of Port Townsend through shared funding between the City, Jefferson County and the Port of Port Townsend as further specified in the 1997 Interlocal Agreement between these parties. CFP 5. Chetzemoka Park kitchen shelter building repairs are expected to require extensive reconstruction planned for 1998. PROPOSED CAPACITY PROJECTS The following projects have been identified in the planning process to meet the parks and recreation needs of the community through the 20 year Comprehensive Planning period to 2013. The list of property proposed for acquisition is contingent on available funding. If funding is not available the City has no intention in adopting this plan to limit development other than is allowed by law. The projects on the CFP are prioritized only to the extent listed in the Priority Recommendations for Parks Acquisition and Development. CFP 6. Development of 35th Street Park as per the agreement with Jefferson County. CFP 7. Joint development of baseball field at Blue Heron Middle School with Port Townsend School District CFP 8. Acquire parcels of land to secure and expand Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park boundaries and wetland buffers, contingent upon the City `s future decision to implement the Nature Park Master Plan adopted by reference in the 1991 Parks and Recreation Plan, including water quality improvements related to stormwater runoff along Kearney Street, expansion of the freshwater wetland component of the park and wetland buffer areas along 19th Street. CFP 9. Acquire lots on Cherry Street such as the forested parcels to the south of the park which could be developed for additional facilities in Bobby McGarraugh Park such as additional parking, picnic sites, or left as a natural buffer to the neighboring residences. Bobby McGarraugh Park expansion is recommended based on the following considerations: C As population increases in that service area through infill, additional land may be necessary to mitigate increased impacts on the park. While fees in lieu of dedication may be available from new development, such fees are unlikely to be sufficient to solve the problem and the City should find other sources of funding for acquisition. C Access from the east has been blocked and there is limited pedestrian access on Cherry Street. C As recommended in the 1991 Park Plan, property on Cherry Street and undeveloped lots adjoining the park should be appraised, acquired and VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -26 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN rezoned to Park and Open Space designation for inclusion in McGarraugh Park. CFP 10. Acquire dry land in the NW area suitable for development of neighborhood park facilities to serve the 20 year build out potential. These future park sites could adjoin the Winona wetland corridor but should provide some land that could be developed with the recommended level of neighborhood park facilities. CFP 11. Acquire dry land near the water at 20th Street that could be developed with the recommended level of neighborhood park facilities adjacent to the wetland /drainage corridor between Howard and Rainier Streets. CFP 12. Acquire field space in western area in association with other agencies to provide reserve land for development of formal play fields to meet expected future demand. CFP 13. Thomas Oil property acquisition remains a fixture city project should outside funding become available. CFP 14. Transfer Span redevelopment is a long range goal since City acquisition of the structure in conjunction with the Larry Scott Memorial Trail in July 1997. In the short term continued structural assessment and safety fencing will be necessary. CFP 15. City trails are also referenced in the transportation CIP for dedicated funding to specific priority projects identified in the Non - Motorized Transportation Plan. CFP 16. Haller Fountain has been identified as the preferred permanent site of the Rhododendron Festival Royalty hand prints. The most immediate need is to make casts of the existing sidewalk prints prior to expected sidewalk repairs in the vicinity. Future funding of the hand print placement is likely to be through community donation. Other renovations to the fountain park area are expected to include sidewalk improvements and continued fountain repair. CFP 17. Adams Street Park temporary flower display continuation will need dedicated budget for future plantings. CFP 18. Street end beach access improvements have been identified in the Comprehensive Public Access Plan (1992) adopted in section 2 of the City of Port Townsend Shoreline Management Plan as implementation of the Urban Waterfront Plan. Funding should be pursued through grants on a project specific basis. Additional private development in the waterfront area should include implementation of this plan where appropriate. CFP 19. Improvements to parcels adjacent to Bobby McGarraugh Park should be funded through existing capital facilities sources. Depending on development VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -27 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN patterns, limited dedications of additional park lands or fees in lieu of dedication may be possible to mitigate direct impacts of additional development; however, such funding is not guaranteed. CFP 20. Improvements to existing public access easement to Larry Scott Trail is proposed to provide the neighborhood south of Sims Way with access to the trail in lieu of providing a new neighborhood park in that area. The nine acre trail corridor provides beach access and access to recreational trails with restrooms and picnic facilities at the trailhead within the 1/2 mile radius recommended level of service. CFP 21. City Entrance Park consists of a 1/2 acre of land that should be developed as a pocket park and trail way point at the junction of the Larry Scott Trail, State Route 20, and Discovery Bay Road. Commercially zoned land adjacent to the site should be encouraged to provide landscaping and buffers adjacent to this parcel as mitigation for impacts of development. CFP 22. Development of a neighborhood park on City property on Umatilla Street would provide access to an area of residential development not currently served at the recommended level of service. Funding options could potentially include use of land dedication or fees in lieu of dedication to mitigate direct impacts of a proposed development, consistent with state law. CFP 23. Development of a neighborhood park near 20th Street and Rainier Street adjacent to the City owned wetland parcels would provide access at the recommended level of service to that portion of the City including the existing Towne Point and Hamilton Heights subdivisions and the areas rezoned in 1996 for new multi - family development. CFP 24. Development of a neighborhood park on the City owned Levinski parcel adjacent to the wetland area is proposed to provide access at the recommended level of service the northern area of the City. CFP 25. Development of a nature interpretive center at Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park as described in the 1991 Parks Plan and the Park Master Plan could be funded through grants and cooperative efforts with other agencies. CFP 26. A new park shop and office facility is planned as a long term replacement of the current shop facility and office adjacent to Chetzemoka Park. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -28 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN RLECREATION The focus of this plan for recreation is to develop proactive strategies to provide adequate recreation and facilities in Port Townsend to meet needs of current residents and future growth. The key strategy is to continue to develop partnerships with other recreation resource providers, community groups, and agencies. These opportunities will enhance existing programs and help in developing new programs through shared facility and management agreements. Keeping the perspective that the City and school district share a large proportion of the same tax base, the city intends to continue to take the lead in providing youth activities through program and facility partnerships. The City program intends to seek opportunities to expand activities, providing adequate staff to meet new opportunities and stay proactive regarding activity development for the community. The City encourages community participation in program development and will provide continued opportunities for input. RECREATION FACILITY PLANNING The City should create a long term strategic process for recreation facility development that includes the school district and other interested groups on a single cooperative planning team. Creation of a community planning team allows broad participation in policy development and the search for i oint funding opportunities. The future needs of the community will be addressed without the City or any single agency bearing the full cost through multi- agency cooperation. Numerical values for recreation facility level of service are based on the assumption that the existing facilities are currently adequate to meet community use demands. Additional population growth or participation rates will cause noticeable decrease in the level of service through overcrowding. The 1996 Survey respondents did not indicate a deep need for additional purchases of land to provide playing fields. However, increasing trends in participation in some activities among the youth and adults of the City such as soccer and co -ed softball indicate such facility development will be needed in the near future. Acquisition and development of land for playing fields is addressed in the capital facilities plan recommendations. RECREATION FACILITIES STANDARDS GUIDELINE RECOMMENDATIONS This plan provides guiding numbers shown in Table VI -1 regarding current service levels at a variety of public recreational facilities in the City of Port Townsend. Rather than recommending adoption of the level of service standards at this time, further capacity analysis should be developed to be used as the basis of future capital facility expansion analysis and to assess the impacts of development on the existing facilities consistent with Chapter 82.02 RCW. Review of IAC and NRPA guidance show both organizations strongly recommend that the individual jurisdiction determine appropriate level for the specific community they serve. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 - VI -29 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE VI -4 Public Recreation Facilities Standard Guidance Recommendations Facility (1) Existing Facilities per Recommended Population Standard INDOOR SWIMMING POOL (2) 1/12,000 = 0.08/1,000 1/15,000 FORMAL MULTIPLE USE FIELDS (3) 3/ 8,500 = 0.35/ 1,000 1/2,830 C PT High School C Memorial Field C Blue Heron Middle School GYMNASIUMS w/ Showers 3/8,500 = 0.35/ 1,000 1/2,800 BOAT LAUNCHES 4/ 8,500 = 0.47/ 1,000 1/2,000 TENNIS COURTS (4) 7/ 8,500 = 0.82/ 1,000 1/1,200 C Fort Worden C PT High School C Courthouse Park 1. Facilities other than these are not recommended for level of service analysis in the City of Port Townsend. 2. Mountain View Pool capacity estimates are explained in the Pool Standards Guidance, Section III Recreation. 3. Memorial Field provides field space for one adult or two junior events and is counted here as one full size field for baseball, softball, and soccer. 4. The tennis courts at Mountain View School are not maintained for school league play at this time and are not included in the existing level of service calculation but could be upgraded to meet future needs. PRIORITY PROGRAM RECOMMENDATIONS This planning document provides direction for future focus items so that the City can move toward strategic leadership in recreation. The City Recreation Department should function in a way conducive to leadership for community recreation programming. Acknowledging that the community is looking for leadership in recreation programming, the city should provide leadership through the Public Works Department during the five year planning period. R -I. The City should take the lead in coordinating activities by developing longer term recreational vision and strategies for the community. R -2. The City should create a Community Recreation Focus Group with a variety of diverse interests and partners. R -3. The City should increase youth activity opportunities. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -30 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN • Provide alternative and diverse activities. • Provide Summer Enrichment Camp Program for grades 6 through 8, dovetailing with summer school programming. • Expand the After- School Program to include Kindergarten to 5th grades. • Develop weekend activity programs • Expand identification and funding program for participants to increase participation opportunities for "at risk" and other children recommended by partnering agencies. R -4. The City should expand partnerships with other private and public recreation providers, such as the Library, Port Townsend School District, Jefferson County, Jefferson General Hospital, YMCA, Law and Justice Council, local churches, and others. R -5. The City should develop additional swimming programs with a variety of target audiences and partnerships. R -6. The City should work to meet transportation needs of participants by working with Jefferson Transit and the School District. OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS R -7. Provide adequate staff for program development, administrative support, and fund raising. R -8. Provide crucial staff coordination time for recreation programming, strategic planning and partnership development. R -9. Use current level of funding per capita to budget funds adequate to meet future expected programming levels. R -10. Continue current ratio of funding and explore new funding sources for recreation. The percentage of general fund support is currently less than 50% of the total recreation and pool budgets. This ratio is appropriate even as the program continues to expand. R -11. Address the need for additional administrative support as the program participation increases.: RECREATION CAPITAL FACILITIES RECOMMENDATIONS R -12. Continue to create facility development strategies by: looking at long term needs participating in ongoing needs assessments with other organizations review opportunities to develop facilities in cooperation with other agencies R -13. Use the following priorities to direct the capital facilities plan: VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -31 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN be supportive in developing new field area acquire land for future needs develop partnerships for facility development and use R -14. Set specific priority goals, recognizing that the cost of program and facility expansion may come at the expense of other programs, by: R -15. Explore partnerships with private groups that encourage facility cost sharing among sponsoring parties R -16. Encourage users' commitment to provide facility development funding help R -17. Specific capital facility improvements that are recommended for short term implementation areas follows: • Develop additional ball field at Blue Heron Middle School in partnership with the School District. • Recreation program enhancements that include non - disposable recreation materials and athletic equipment needed to continue and expand the After School and Summer Recreation programs should be acquired. • Additional improvements at the Mountain View Swimming Pool should be specified in the strategic planning process. • Land should be reserved for development of field space in the very near term to make partnerships with other agencies in the future possible. R -18. Adopt recreation guideline standards as shown in Table VI4. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -32 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN OPEN SPACE The 1996 survey indicated that protection of open space for walking, passive recreation, and habitat is a high priority for the residents Port Townsend. Much of the designated open space has been preserved through utility purchases especially to protect drainage corridors and provide natural stormwater detention. The Stormwater Master Plan includes recommendations for further City acquisition of parcels specific to those functions. Through the direction of the goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan, the City will seek opportunities to protect certain open space values and functions on private parcels through development review and partnerships with private landowners. Passive recreation functions and values are important considerations in open space planning. These functions provide quiet spaces, natural vegetation, mountain, water, and pastoral views where people can wander, linger, and explore. This experience of the natural element of the local environment in a minimally intrusive way is regarded as "passive recreation ". Trails and open areas for passive recreation and habitat exist in defacto open space. Much of the defacto open space is actually on private property that may develop into multi - family complexes, single family neighborhoods, and commercial areas in the future. The goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan form the basis of an aggressive approach to protecting open space in the City. The summary of existing conditions, however, illustrates that the current amount of dedicated open space is limited in comparison to "potential open space" designated on the City's 1997 Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map. 0-1 The City should consider acquiring and or otherwise protecting open space in areas identified on the CFP and lands identified as Potential Open Space in the Land Use Map. The Potential Open Space overlay appears in areas that could be valuable if maintained as open space, such as wooded areas, drainage corridors, and scenic vistas. (Comp Plan, pg. VI -11) Other areas that provide the functions and values discussed in Section IV, Open Space should be identified for inclusion in future open space planning. Each of these functions has an overlapping array of values provided within those functions. 0-2 When prioritizing functions for land use planning, the City should demonstrate compatibility of functions in order to avoid conflicts of use. Environmentally sensitive area protection is an overriding factor when evaluating a project's design. • As environmentally sensitive areas are identified during stormwater basin analysis and development review, the City should require evaluation of other open space functions such as park and recreation opportunities, buffers, habitat, and cultural resources. The City should assure coordination and compatibility with the full range of functions and values, based on the open space goals, at all levels of long range planning and development review. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -33 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 0-3 The Comprehensive Plan goals suggest a tie between open space and trail placement. • Open space management plans should identify areas where trails would be compatible with other open space functions and values and not incompatible with protection of environmentally sensitive areas. • Where feasible, the City should accommodate trails in unopened rights -of -way, future park development and through City owned parcels. • The City should develop an inventory of street ends abutting water for inclusion as potential open space. • Provision of non - motorized access should be considered during development review and through coordination with private landowners. 0-4 Coordination should continue during the implementation of the Non - Motorized Transportation Plan. The Non - Motorized Transportation Plan also continues the implementation of the Comprehensive Public Access Plan and Urban Waterfront Plan, both adopted as components of the Shoreline management Master Plan, connecting the waterfront with a larger network of trails that lead to surrounding districts and residential neighborhoods. The Non - Motorized transportation Plan recommends development of a multi -modal trail loop around the City. This loop also unites an extensive system of existing and proposed parks and open spaces, including many environmentally sensitive areas that provide significant wildlife habitat. This habitat should be assessed for a variety of open space values and functions prior to trail development including recognition of the difference in function of transportation oriented non - motorized facilities and recreational facilities such as low impact trails that avoid degradation of in wildlife habitat and buffer areas. 0-5 Open space planning should incorporate the following elements: • Recognize urban landscape component. • Meet goals of the stormwater management plans and the North Quimper Peninsula Wildlife Corridor acquisition program. • Relate to environmentally sensitive areas and buffer management requirements • Consider street ends in the shoreline management zone as potential open space. • Consider all component functions and values of open space as illustrated in Figure IV- I • Establishes priorities of function to avoid conflicts of use. 0-6 Areas along Sims Way and the new neighborhood commercial and multi - family zones should be required to provide: • Development Ordinances should include a standard that reflects this need for urban open space in new development. • These standards should be based on the number of employees, square footage or proportion of parcel size. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -34 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN 0-7 Where open space is a condition of development and meets the criteria in 0-5, it should be considered as an open space facility available in that area. Currently public open space for walking or sitting is required or provided in the following locations: • Port Townsend Industrial Park stormwater detention facility • Port of Port Townsend Larry Scott Memorial Trail Terminus and wetland area • Lynnesfield stormwater detention facility, wetland area, and play field • Blue Heron Middle School wetland area (Townsend Meadows) • Hamilton Heights, • Port Townsend Business park 0-8 The City should assure residents access to tax benefits for dedication of "open open Space ", 84.34 RCW. OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS 0-9 The Public Works Department should adopt coordinated direction for the multiple - function management of City acquisitions that addresses management options of specific properties. includes discussion of stormwater problem areas, multiple -use priorities and long - range protection requirements of environmentally sensitive areas as well as coordination efforts with areas of private conservation easements and trail access. provides review and update of beach access plans for priority implementation. 0 -10 Development of management plans for city properties in conjunction with other owners, conservation easements, utility needs, and Environmentally Sensitive Area Ordinance requirements should include assessment of operations and maintenance needs for trails and stormwater facilities. 0 -11 Off - street trail development and maintenance should be the responsibility of the Public Works Department through the combined and coordinated efforts of the Parks and Street Departments except where trails are included in a maintenance agreement. 0 -12 Responsibility for trial development and maintenance should be reflected in the staffing, operations, and capital facilities budgets of each department based on standard cost estimates and facility type. CAPITAL FACILITIES RECOMMENDATION 0 -13 The following projects are proposed for priority acquisition in conjunction with the stormwater utility serving to control and manage stormwater impacts and also serving as VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -35 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN components of an open space program and have been previously identified in the Comprehensive Plan and Land Use Map, 1996. • Howard/Rainier Street Drainage Corridor • Winona wetland parcels • 50th & Jackman Drainage Corridor • Wetland and drainage corridor between San Juan Avenue and Cherry Street blown as "the pasture" • Wetland /Drainage Corridor near Hastings and Thomas Streets OTHER PROPERTY RECOMMENDATIONS STREET TREE PROGRAM: Tree lined streets are mentioned repeatedly in the community direction statement adopted in the Comprehensive Plan. The volunteer effort that funded the extensive street tree plantings lasted almost twenty years. As the trees reach maturity, it has become the responsibility of the Parks and Street Departments to manage the care and maintenance of these assets to our community. Funding has not allowed for an active program in this area, even though public concerns and demands in this area have increased substantially. Street tree program development as per 1991 recommendations are still relevant. These needs are being met minimally through the Main Street Program and the Public Works Department crew time. Street Tree -I 1991 Parks and Recreation Plan recommended actions for program development that should be implemented as follows: • hire contract arborist • create and staff an advisory committee to organize a City -wide tree inventory • provide further training of parks staff • provide public education and awareness Street Tree -2. The Public Works Department should develop a work plan and budget adopted to address removal, replanting, and other regular concerns regarding the street trees. Street Tree -3. The work plan and budget should include management of a street tree advisory committee and direction of a volunteer inventory program including database development and periodic tree count updates. GOLF COURSE: Acknowledging that the City intends to explore all options for management and capital facility improvements for this facility, the Public Works Department should take a proactive approach to defining these options through the following actions: VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -36 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Golf Course -1. Development of a capital improvement plan to include: • trail loop coordination • course enhancement • wetland delineation • stormwater issues • water quality • wildlife habitat and buffer management • landscaping plan • property acquisition Golf Course -2. Further discussion of long term management options: • gather comparison data with other public courses • compare lease or government operated course financial plans • provide report to council • develop management plan that increases revenues to the City • earmark revenues to cover operations and maintenance expense at the Golf Course to the City as well as for capital improvements Golf Course -3. Short term management options: • work towards increasing the financial accountability of the operator for all the revenue sources of the course operation and outline the duties and responsibilities of each party • address in a comprehensive manner the environmental concerns associated with golf course best management practices in general • provide increased awareness and protection of environmentally sensitive areas on and near the course Golf Course -4. Establish an advisory committee to study the short and long term management options and develop a capital improvement plan. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -37 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN FINANCING OPTIONS - PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE CAPITAL FACILITIES EXPENSE PROJECTIONS The 1996 Comprehensive Plan has capacity and non - capacity projects for the Parks Department. Park and Recreation Plan recommendations have been developed into a set of prioritized actions. These actions reflect the level of financial and community effort necessary to maintain the desired level of service for parks and recreation. The action recommendations will be used to update the City's Capital Facility Plan for the next 5 year planning period through 2002. These projects are shown in Table VI -2 New Facilities: Cost projections for new facilities proposed in the implementation plan reflect a level of expense considerably higher than the City has experienced for parks and recreation development in the past. Operating on only 4% of the total 1997 City budget, facility acquisition and development has depended on grant funding, community volunteers, donations, and staff creativity to keep up with increasing demand for park and beach access. For example, Bobby McGarraugh Park developed slowly over the past 20 years from an abandoned gravel pit. Similar ingenuity resulted in the development of Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park. The land was purchased in the early 1980's with an Interagency Commission for Outdoor Recreation (IAC) Grant to match City efforts and includes land leased from the Port of Port Townsend and Jefferson County Public Utility District. The facility development involved community efforts of labor, materials, and art. After developing a master plan for the facility, the existing landscaping evolved over the last decade through continuing community planting projects. There are several aspects of the master plan yet to be realized. At the present time, land acquired through other City funds may be further developed or portions purchased by the Parks Department from the utility some time in the future. Specific sites have been identified that are appropriate for limited development of park amenities. These amenities are recommended to be consistent with neighborhood park criteria. They are likely to cover less than two acres of the parcel. Although these properties are currently zoned P/O which includes utilities and other office facilities as preferred uses, development of park facilities is intended to mitigate impacts to the character of the neighborhood as the utility facilities are developed. Most of these properties are situated in areas of the City not within the service area of an existing park facility. Development of these facilities will be necessary to meet the recommended level of service for universal access to neighborhood parks within 1/2 mile of every home in Port Townsend. These properties are shown on Proposed Capital Facilities Map VI -1. Most of these properties are in the Tier II or III utility development designation requiring full size utility and street infrastructure installation at the developer's expense. New costs associated with development of City property are reflected in the estimates for 35th Street Park which is outside of the utility designation of Tier I. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -38 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Development, operations, and maintenance costs of new facilities have been estimated based on the minimum costs estimated for 35th Street Park shown below. Estimated Costs for 35th Street park Water $10,000 Sewer $13,000 Stormwater $20,000 Street development $21,000 Restrooms $25,000 Parking $15,000 Basketball Court $15,000 Play field grading and seeding $ 5,000 Miscellaneous rec equipment $ 2,500 Bike racks $ 2,000 Alternative access $ 2,500 Further planning $ 2,500 Children's play and picnic area $10,000 Contingency $10,000 Total Estimate $168,500 Proposed New Revenue Sources Existing Revenue Sources 1 - Park Impact Fees 5 - Transient Accommodations Tax through the Tourism Advisory Group 2 - Voluntary open space contributions 6.- Street Fund 3 - 1 % Real Estate Transfer Tax 7.- Wastewater Utility 4 - Stormwater funds 8.- General Fund: Property tax and retail sales tax portion transferred to Park Fund used for O &M 9. - donations, non - profits, other REET - Real Estate Excise Tax at .25 %, two taxes Grants = IAC ,CZM, ALEA, Other- VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -39 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE VI -5 Capital Facilities Plan Current Capacity Projects Project Recommendations 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 -18 Potential Funding Sources Current Capacity Projects 1,2,3, 35 Street Park Phase I infrastructure, field 11,000 16,000 17,000 30,000 36,000 Buy lots on Cherry street REST, grants,5,4,6, 7 Phase 11 , III 20,000 20,000 1,2,3, 69,500 Golf course improvements 6,200 5,000 4,500 4,500 4,500 100,000 500,000 8,Golf course revenue Chetzemoka kitchen shelter 5,000 rants Buy dry land near water tower REET City trails (transportation Cl P) 35,000 1 35,000 35,000 35,000 35,000 35,000 285,000 REET Playground equipment 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 55,000 REET Skateboard 5,000 0 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 50,000 REET Union Wharf 530,000 grants,Bond Wetlands @ San Juan & grants Subtotal 623,200 46,000 66,500 67,5001 80,5001 182,000 959,000 Park & Open Space 25,000 REET Acquisition Program Buy Kah Tai inholdings 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 1,2,3, REET, grants Buy lots on Cherry street 20,000 20,000 1,2,3, REET, rants Buy dry land near water tower 50,000 50,000 1,REET, 20th grants Thomas Oil Property 0 0 0 0 0 0 1,400,000 3,REET, /Maritime Heritage Center grants,Bond Wetlands @ San Juan & 50,000 50,000 60,000 60,000 60,000 180,000 2,3,4,7 Cherry "the Pasture" REET Howard / Rainier Street 25,000 25,000 25,000 25,000 200,000 2,3,4,6, Corridor REET Winona Wetlands 150,000 4, 50th & Jackman Corridor 100,000 4, Hastings &Thomas Corridor 20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000 100,000 2,4, (basin 5 & 9) Subtotal 01 70,000 270,000 175,000 175,0001 205,000 2,080,000 VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -40 * 1999 funding sources in bold CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN TABLE VI -6 Capital Facilities Plan Proposed Capacity Projects Proposed Capacity Projects 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 -18 Potential Funding Souces Larry Scott trailhead restrooms 0 0 20,000 grant or 5 Adams St. 0 30,000 REET, grant Transfer span 5,000 20,000 20,000 2,000,000 grant Haller Fountain and Royalty 15,000 15,000 private donations Handprint relocation Implement comprehensive public 5,000 50,000 grants access plan through street end beach access improvements Improve lots on Cherry St. 20,000 1, 2, REET Improve easement access to 5000 10,000 20,000 1, 2, grant Larry Scott trail Recreation enhancements 50,000 REET Improve BHMS field 35,000 REET City Entrance: develop as pocket 20,000 15REET park Develop neighbor park @ 100,000 1,REET Umatilla Develop neighbor park @ or 100,000 1,REET near 20th Street Develop neighbor park @ 100,000 1,2,3,REET Levinski Develop nature interp center 75,000 grants, donations Park shop 200,000 1,REET Golf course master 5,000 10,000 20,000 25,000 1,2,3,4,8,REET plan /management plan Subtotal 1 5,000 5,000 35,0001 30,0001 45,0001 75,0001 2,880,000 VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -41 5 CC i.w b� C C v CC U W d H O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O M O O O O O O O O O O O O Ff? O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O N O O O O O O O O O O O O '!t 7t -- M U O O O O O O O O O O O 7t -- M N U bA U Ff? O O O •}, O O U cn n cn cd N v cn cn cn W W °o �'•� � vU o � w � F4 i cn � r r cn cn ° �cn 0 0 cn un w � W O cn un u 0 CD- C7 'i. v s• 0 Q W � v ��� U '0 U ° Q cl D cn ' cn W � w o un spa a�� �. 5 a CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN CAPITAL FACILITIES FINANCING OPTIONS IAC -Inter - Agency Committee for Outdoor Recreation Grant Program The IAC, provides funding for acquisition of land and development of facilities for outdoor recreation through a variety of programs that address local park, shoreline access, urban wildlife habitat, riparian conservation easements and a new program funded from the stadium fund earmarked for youth athletic facilities. Projects are eligible if adequate maintenance is guaranteed and they meet the priorities identified in the local parks plan. Real Estate Excise Tax (BEET) The City currently dedicates approximately thirty -five percent (35 %) of the revenues generated from the (two) one - quarter percent real estate excise tax funds to the Parks Department capital projects. This currently provides 27% of the Park and Recreation revenue. Voluntary Utility Billing Check Off The City has considered a utility bill check off as a method to raise funds for parks and open space, but has yet to move forward with it. An additional check off could be added for utility customers to elect to contribute to non - motorized improvements. As an example, if 100 people a month contributed 5 dollars, the yearly total would be $6,000. A check off for parks and open space projects, however, would compete with other programs such as non - motorized projects seeking to raise funds in this manner. User Fees A fee charged to users of the park and recreation facilities, currently addresses the operations and maintenance costs of group use of existing facilities. Additional fees are not recommended for general park use. Local Option Fuel Tax and Vehicle License Fee Jefferson County can elect to instigate a local option fuel tax or vehicle license fee. These funds could be used to fund general transportation improvements including non - motorized facilities. Washington State Law (RCW 47.30) requires cities and counties to set aside a minimum of 0.5 percent of their motor vehicle fuel taxes (half cent gas tax) for trails and paths. This would benefit the development of non - motorized access to City parks. Transient Accommodation Tax In the past the use of these funds was limited to the visual arts, conference or sports facilities, stadium and coliseums. The legislature recently allowed for the use of these funds to be more at the discretion of the local jurisdiction. In addition, to promoting tourism, the proceeds of this tax have been used for a number of projects including the renovation of the Pope Marine Building, and to support the Golf Course Clubhouse. Several facilities listed in this plan provide services directly related to accommodating visitor needs such as parks along the Waterwalk. Additional projects could be funded under this program if sufficient funds are available. Use of this funding source will have to be developed through discussion of the LTAC budget process to distribute funds to benefit tourism. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -43 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Local Improvement Districts (LID) Local Improvement Districts (LID) are quasi - governmental organizations formed by land owners to finance and construct a variety of physical infrastructure improvements beneficial to its members. This process should be considered as a method to finance facilities to accommodate growth or help remedy deficiencies in existing residential and commercial areas. Coastal Zone Management Program This is a Washington State Department of Ecology (WSDOE) program that provides grants for shoreline access projects including trails, docks and user facilities. Funding for recommended improvements in the Urban Waterfront Plan and Comprehensive Public Access Plan should be sought. Aquatic Land Enhancement (ALEA) This is a Washington Department of Natural Resources program to fund land acquisition and development for water - related activities including water access trails. ALEA funding may be suitable for Waterwalk projects and redevelopment of the Transfer Span. The program requires a 25% local match, with a maximum grant of $75,000 per project. The City successfully completed the reconstruction of Union Wharf in 1996 with a special $2 million grant from this fund. The Community Economic Revitalization Board This agency provides grants and low- interest loans to "timber communities" for "projects that result in new or expanded manufacturing or tourism jobs." This should be applicable for projects to pedestrianize downtown or improve access to the ferry terminal (e.g. sections of the Waterwalk from Kearney to the ferry dock.). RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FINANCING CAPITAL PROJECTS F -I. Phased development of new park facilities should be timed with neighborhood growth and development so that the City will not be obligated through park development to provide neighborhood infrastructure prior to residential development. F -2. In addition to meeting growth needs through park development on City property, purchases at Kah Tai Lagoon and parcels adjacent to Bobby McGarraugh Park may be necessary to assure that growth from infill in the eastern section of the City does not tax the existing facilities. F -3. To the extent that new development creates the need for parks, recreation and open space facilities to serve the expanding population, especially in less populated or undeveloped areas of the City, where legally permissible, new development should be required to dedicate land or pay fees in lieu of dedication to mitigate any adverse impacts on neighborhoods without adequate parks, recreation or open space facilities under the City's authority pursuant to the subdivision statutes and SEPA. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -44 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN F -4. The City should develop an impact fee ordinance in order to assure that park and recreation services and facilities necessary to support development shall be adequate to serve the development without decreasing current service standards below locally established minimum standards. The City should: Establish impact fees only on improvements that are reasonably related to, and will reasonably benefit, the new development. Establish impact fees that will not exceed a proportionate share of the cost of system improvements that are reasonably related to the new development, and will not be the sole source of funding for the public facility. Collect and spend impact fees only for public facilities that are addressed by the capital facilities plan as an element of the Comprehensive Plan. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CURRENT REVENUE SOURCES The current budget for 1997 has a stand alone fund balance for Parks and Recreation separated from the general fund current expense account. One of these current funding sources derives from the two 1/4% Real Estate Excise Taxes (BEET) adopted by City Council. This funding provides 90% of the current capital funding for the Parks Department. Sales tax and property tax also contribute to the Parks Department fund. F -5. The percentage dedicated annually to the Parks Department Fund should be increased as Operations and Maintenance needs continue to increase. The percentage dedicated to the park fund should be 35% of these revenues. F -6. The City, in cooperation with LTAC, should consider using Transient Accommodation Tax funds to develop other amenities to commercial and transient accommodation complexes along the Sims Way/Highway 20 Corridor, along the entire waterfront, and in the most heavily used parks. Based on existing information from the 1997 Capital Facilities Plan, current budget revenues and expenses indicate a need for the City to develop new funding sources for parks and recreation. Several currently unused options are recommended for further study or implementation. Revenue sources applicable to parks and recreation funding and other potential sources are varied. F -7 The City, Port Townsend School District, Port of Port Townsend, and Jefferson County should pursue the feasibility of capital projects that could benefit multiple jurisdictions. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -45 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN F -8. The following funding options are recommended for further exploration and implementation. These are summarized above and listed here. • Transient Accommodation Tax with potentially more local control on rates and usages • Impact fees as recommended in the draft Comprehensive Plan and based on need for land acquisition and capital facilities development • Mitigation fees under SEPA, the subdivision statutes and other adopted development regulation • Interagency Committee (IAC) grant funding to be used for specific projects related to park and youth athletic field development, water access and urban wildlife property acquisition • Coastal Zone Management grants for projects related to public access to coastlines • Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account (ALEA) from the Department of Natural Resources for facilities related to projects in state waters • 1% Real Estate Transfer Tax (county -wide) • Existing Real Estate Excise Tax dedicated to park fund at 35% total annual revenue • Voluntary contributions through utility billing check -off box • Partnerships with private donors, Jefferson Land Trust or other public and non - profit agencies • General Bonds- voter approved or councilmanic • Property acquisitions through other funds with coordinated uses • Local Improvement District (LID) or Local Utility District (LUD) to implement the Comprehensive Plan goal to provide assistance and encouragement for neighborhood groups for park development F -9 Admission taxes, local bond measure for specific facility proposals, service areas taxing districts or development of a local park district are not recommended as capital projects funding options at this time. Formation of a Park and Recreation District was eliminated as an option for Port Townsend in this plan for several reasons. Park district formation creates a junior taxing district with an independently elected board of commissioners. The City gives up direct control of programs and planning. Funding is tied to levy elections that must be renewed with a super majority voter approval of 60 %. Success of these regular levy elections is uncertain each time. This uncertainty applies to operation and maintenance funding and in some areas has led to diminished service over time as well as lack of facility development when levies fail. Creating a district requires a large amount of popular support while leaving many unknowns beyond the scope of a City functional plan. F -10 Implementation of a 1% Real Estate Transfer Tax for Open Space is a recommended option that requires voter approval in Jefferson County. A funding mechanism to provide a share of these revenues to the City of Port Townsend would need to be defined. Based VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -46 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN on current trends of real estate transfers, the City's proportionate share would provide a significant fund dedicated to preserving open space. F -11 County approval is required for other local funding options that are tied to vehicle use. The City should work with Jefferson County to evaluate the adoption of local option revenue sources for the benefit of both jurisdictions including preservation of open space and non - motorized trial development adjacent to the City Urban Growth Area. These options include: local option vehicle tax • for trails and transportation local option fuel tax FINANCING OPTIONS FOR OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE The ongoing costs associated with operating and maintaining existing facilities are evaluated in Section H. These yearly costs are important in terms of fully accounting for the overall costs of any proposed new project. Based on the current costs associated with operations and maintenance, expected costs and issues associated with the proposed action program are evaluated below. Areas of concern that are not presently being addressed are included in the action plan below but are not prioritized. F -12. ACQUISITION OF EXISTING COUNTY FACILITIES The City should consider the impacts to the Operations and Maintenance budget based on existing intensity of maintenance for each facility using the City average cost per acre at the existing level of maintenance. F -13. REPLACEMENT /DEPRECIATION A fund does not exist at this time. Eventual costly replacement of and repairs and improvements to the many facilities that the City owns and manages will be necessary. Such facilities include Union Wharf, City Dock, Pope Marine Building, Chetzemoka Park building, other capital improvements including all existing restroom facilities and irrigation systems will also need repair and replacement. Improvements to meet ADA accessibility requirements are also necessary in some existing facilities. At this time a long -term maintenance schedule is being developed. The City should budget funding for this schedule. F -14. ADMINISTRATIVE NEEDS The Parks Department, in conjunction with the Parks and Recreation Commission and City Council, should prioritize its administrative needs, especially with new facilities coming on line, and work toward defining funding options. Administrative needs should be reviewed from an overall Public Works standpoint. VI- Recommendations.doc January, 1999 VI -47 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN DEFINITION OF TERMS Action Strategy: The actions necessary to implement the community vision. These include new public facilities and services recommended under this Plan as well as funding sources. Affordable Housing: Affordable housing is generally defined as housing where the occupant is paying no more than 30% of gross income for housing costs, including utilities, and meets the needs of moderate or low- income households. While affordable housing is often thought of as subsidized housing, this is not necessarily so. Market housing, meeting low and moderate income targets, with affordability controls in place, may also qualify. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): A 1990 federal law designed to bring disabled Americans into the economic mainstream by providing them equal access to jobs, transportation, public facilities, and services. Applicant: A person submitting an application for development. Assisted Living Facility: Residences for the elderly that provide rooms, meals, personal care, and supervision of self - administered medication. They may provide other services, such as recreational activities, financial services, and transportation. Aquifers: Water - bearing strata of rock, gravel, or sand. These may vary in size from ground water resources of small quantity to enormous underground resources. The quantity of an aquifer is normally measured by well yields or by the water table height. Aquifer Recharge Area: Point of interchange between ground water and the surface. Recharge refers to the addition of water to the zone of saturation (note: Aquifer recharge areas are also known as ground water recharge areas.) Arterial, minor: A street with signals at important intersections and stop signs on the side streets and that collects and distributes traffic to and from collector streets. Arterial, major: A street with access control, channelized intersections, restricted parking, and that collects and distributes traffic to and from minor arterials. Best Management Practice (BMP): State -of- the -art technology as applied to a specific problem. BMPs are often required as part of major land development projects. The BMP represents physical, institutional, or strategic approaches to environmental problems, particularly with respect to nonpoint source pollution control. Bicycle Lane: A clearly marked lane of travel for bicycles on the side of a street or roadway, separated from the automobile lanes by painted strips, curbs, or buttons. Bicycle Path: A bicycle facility that is physically separated from the roadway and its associated vehicular traffic. No motorized vehicles are permitted. Bond & Levy Financing: Local governments can raise revenues by selling tax - exempt municipal bonds or by increasing property taxes through property tax levies. Bonds require a 60% voter approval; levies Definitions January, 1999 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN require a simple majority. The City can issue a limited amount of debt without voter approval. This is called limited general obligation or councilmanic debt. Voter approved bonds are retired with property tax revenues. Capacity: The ability to contain, absorb, or receive and hold employment, residential development, vehicles, sewage, etc. Capital Facilities: Public structures, improvements, pieces of equipment or other major assets, including land, that have a useful life of at least 10 years. Capital facilities are provided by and for public purposes and services. For the purposes of the Capital Facilities and Utilities Element of this Plan, capital facilities are fire and rescue facilities, government offices, law enforcement facilities, sewer and water systems, parks, open space, and recreational facilities, public health facilities, and public schools. Capital Improvement Program (CIP): A plan for future capital expenditures which identifies each capital project, its anticipated start and completion, and allocates existing funds and known revenue sources over a six -year period. Capital Improvements: Projects to create, expand, or modify a capital facility. The project may include design permitting, environmental analysis, land acquisition, construction, landscaping, site improvements, initial furnishings, and equipment. The project cost must exceed $15,000 and have a useful life of at least five years. Census Tracts: A spatial unit of measurement used by the Federal Bureau of Census to collect demographic data. Cluster Development: A development design technique that concentrates buildings in specific areas on a site to allow the remaining land to be used for recreation, common open space, and preservation of environmentally sensitive areas. Comprehensive Plan: A generalized coordinated policy statement of the governing body of a city that is adopted pursuant to the Washington State Growth Management Act (Chapter 36.70A RCW). A document or series of documents prepared by a professional planning staff and planning commission that sets forth guidelines and policies for the future development of a community. Such a plan should be the result of considerable public input, study, and analysis of existing physical, economic, environmental and social conditions, and a projection of likely future conditions. Concurrency: A Washington State Growth Management Act (GMA) requirement which mandates that public transportation infrastructure (e.g., arterials and transit routes) needed to maintain adopted level of service standards is available within six years of development. The GMA mandates concurrency for transportation facilities, and allows local jurisdictions to establish their own concurrency requirements for other necessary public infrastructure (e.g., water, wastewater, stormwater). Concurrency is also a mechanism for assuring that improvements or strategies to accommodate the impacts of development are in place at the time of development approval, or that a financial commitment is in place to complete the improvements or strategies within a specified period of time (e.g., six years). A process of reassessment, concurrency is a key link between land use, transportation, water and sewer, and development approval. Consistency: The requirement that subdivision regulations, zoning regulations and capital improvements programs be consistent with the comprehensive plan and each of its elements, and that individual land use decisions also be consistent with the plan. The GMA requires that the Plan be both internally consistent and consistent with neighboring jurisdictions. Definitions January, 1999 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Critical Areas: Wetlands, aquifer recharge areas, fish and wildlife habitat areas, frequently flooded areas, geologically hazardous areas, and rare /endangered plant habitat areas that every county and city in the state are required to classify, designate, and regulate to protect, under the GMA. Density: The number of families, persons or housing units per unit of land usually expressed as "per acre." There are several different ways of measuring density, including: a. Net Site Density: Units per net residential, commercial or industrial development site area; and b. Gross Density: Units per gross site area before dedication, covenants or designation of a portion of the site as unbuildable or open space. Detention: The process of collecting and holding back stormwater for delayed release to receiving waters. Developer: The legal or beneficial owner or owners of a lot or of any land included in a proposed development, including the holder of an option or contract to purchase, or other persons having enforceable proprietary interests in such land (see also applicant). Easement: A right or privilege that a person may have on another's land, such as a right -of -way. Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA): Those areas, designated, mapped and regulated by environmentally sensitive area regulations. These areas have existing site conditions which require development standards to minimize specific on -site and off -site adverse environmental impacts including stream siltation, hill- slides, and reduction of wildlife habitat. ESAs include wetlands, riparian corridors, steep slopes, slide -prone areas, areas subject to liquefaction, known -slide hazard areas, hazardous waste sites, floodplains, and wildlife habitat areas. Functional Plans: Planning documents which establish long -range goals and objectives to guide city operations and capital development requests. These plans typically represent ideal goals for specific city departments in providing urban services and facilities. Growth Management Act (GMA): Washington State House Bill 2929 adopted in 1990, amended by House Bill 1025 in 1991, and codified largely within Chapter 36.70A RCW. Household: A household includes all the persons who occupy a housing unit. The occupants may be a single family, one person living alone, two or more families living together, or any other group of related or unrelated persons who share living arrangements. Impact Fee: Charges levied by a city or county against new development for a pro -rata share of the capital costs of facilities necessitated by the development. The Growth Management Act authorizes imposition of impact fees on new development, and sets the conditions under which they may be imposed. Impervious Surfaces: Surfaces that cannot be easily penetrated. For instance, rain does not readily penetrate asphalt or concrete pavement. Incentive (Bonus) Zoning: Incentive or Bonus zoning is a tool which encourages higher quality development and permits greater flexibility in the zoning process. For example if a developer is willing to provide additional open space, sidewalk widening, public plaza, or other public purpose amenities, s/he would be awarded some bonus (e.g., increased density in the form of increased floor area ratio, or more units per acre). This technique allows local government to "bargain" for development which makes better Definitions January, 1999 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN overall use of the land, creating pleasant, aesthetically pleasing, environmentally sound, and pedestrian - friendly urban environments. Income: Money earned from employment or investment. There are several ways to measure income, among them: a. Low Income: Households whose incomes do not exceed 80% of the median income for the area; b. Median Household Income: Average amount of income per household in a given geographical area; and C. Moderate Income: Households whose incomes are between 81% and 95% of the median income for the area. Infill Development: Development consisting of either construction on one or more lots in an area which is mostly developed, or new construction between two existing structures. Inter - Agency Committee (IAC): A committee created by the Washington State Legislature under Chapter 43.99 RCW to assist in the preservation, conservation, and enhancement of the state's recreational resources. The mission of the interagency committee for outdoor recreation and its staff is to: a. Create and work actively for the implementation of a unified state -wide strategy for meeting the recreational needs of Washington citizens; b. Represent and promote the interests of the state on recreational issues in concert with other state and local agencies and the governor; C. Encourage and provide interagency and regional coordination, and interaction between public and private organizations; d. Administer recreational grant -in -aid programs and provide technical assistance; and e. Serve as a repository for information, studies, research, and other data relating to recreation. Land Banks: Acquisition of land for the purpose of reserving it for specified future development types. The land bank concept can include management of existing publicly owned lands, with designated reservations or restrictions for future uses. Land Trusts: A land trust is an organization created to own and steward land for the purpose of sustaining long term affordability and other preservation goals (e.g., historical significance, agricultural value). The land trust organization leases development rights to individuals or nonprofit organizations that agree to reasonable limitations on resale of real property, while maintaining basic owner equity and tenure rights. Land Use Assumptions: The proposed and existing land use intensities and densities (i.e., retail, various residential densities, office, manufacturing) used in developing land use planning documents. These land uses are often represented in terms of population and employment numbers. Land Use: A term used to indicate the use of any parcel of land. The way in which land is being used is the land use. Level -of- Service (LOS): A qualitative rating of how well some unit of transportation supply or other public facility or service (e.g., street, intersection, sidewalk, bikeway, transit route, water, and sewer) meets current or projected demand. Local Improvement District (LID): A quasi - governmental organization formed by landowners to finance and construct a variety of physical infrastructure improvements beneficial to its members. Definitions January, 1999 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN LOS: See Level of Service. Mixed Use: The presence of more than one category of use in a structure, for example, a mixture of residential units and offices in the same building. Mode: Types of transportation available for use, such as a bicycle, an automobile, or a bus. Multi - Modal: Referring to accessibility by a variety of travel modes, typically pedestrian, bicycle, transit, and automobile modes, but may also include water and air transport modes. Multi- Family Dwelling: A structure or portion of a structure containing five or more dwelling units, including units that are located one over the other . NonmotorizedTransportation: Any mode of transport that utilizes a power source other than a motor. Primary non - motorized modes include walking (i.e., pedestrian), horseback riding (i.e., equestrian), and bicycling. Nonpoint Source Pollution: Pollution that enters water from dispersed and uncontrolled sources (i.e., such as surface runoff) rather than through pipes. On -site Retention: Permanent impounding of stormwater, or a substantial portion of stormwater, in manmade or man - modified lakes and ponds. On -site retention is often required for developments. On- Street Parking: Parking spaces in the right -of -way. Open Space: Land or water area with its surface open to the sky or predominantly undeveloped, which is set aside to serve the purposes of providing park and recreation opportunities, conserving valuable resources, and structuring urban development and form. The term "open space" is often further divided into the following categories: a. Common Open Space: Space that my be used by all occupants of a residential complex (note: parking areas and driveways do not qualify as open space); b. Landscaped Open Space: An outdoor area including natural or planted vegetation in the form of hardy trees, shrubs, grass, evergreen ground cover and /or flowers; C. Private Open Space: Usable outdoor space directly accessible to a unit, with use restricted to the occupants of that unit, and d. Usable Open Space: Usable open space is an outdoor area which is of appropriate size, shape and siting to provide for recreational activity. Usable open space may be occupied by sculpture, fountains or pools, benches or other outdoor furnishings, or by recreational facilities such as playground equipment, swimming pools, and game courts. Operating Costs: An estimate of the funds needed to continue operation of capital facilities on a yearly basis. Overlay Zone: A zoning district that encompasses one or more underlying zones and that imposes additional requirements above that required by the underlying zone. In Port Townsend, examples include, the National Register Historic District, the Gateway Corridor, and the Urban Waterfront District. (Comment: Overlay zones deal with special situations in a municipality that are not appropriate to a specific zoning district or apply to several districts. For example, in all business zones, an overlay Definitions January, 1999 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN provision might require impact fees to provide for traffic improvements or an historic district overlay may cover parts of several zones). Park - and -Ride Lot: A parking lot where transit riders can leave their cars and ride a bus or train to another location. Permeability: The rate at which water moves through undisturbed soil. It depends largely on the texture, structure, porosity, and density of the soil. Ratings range from very slow (less than .06 inches per hour) to very rapid (more than 20 inches per hour). Plat: A map of the design of a land subdivision. Policy: An agreed course of action adopted and pursued by decision - makers to achieve one or several goals and objectives and which is used as a guide for formulating programs. Port Townsend Municipal Code (PTMC): All the regulatory and penal ordinances and certain of the administrative ordinances adopted by the City of Port Townsend, Washington, and codified pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 35.21.500 through 35.21.570 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). Prime Agricultural Land: Soils with little or no limitations or hazards for crop production. Proportionate Share: Adjusted to something else according to a certain rate of comparative relation. The act of adjusting, dividing or prorating the cost of providing public infrastructure between the general taxpaying public and the builder or developer of a new structure or development. Public Access: A means of physical approach to and along the shoreline available to the general public. Public access may also include visual approach (see The Port Townsend Shoreline Master Program). Public Facility: Any use of land, whether publicly or privately owned, for transportation, utilities, or communication, or for the benefit of the general public, including streets, schools, libraries, fire and police stations, municipal and county buildings, powerhouses, recreational centers, parks and cemeteries. Recreation, Active: Leisure -time activities, usually of a formal nature and often performed with others, requiring formal equipment and taking place at prescribed places, sites, or fields. (Comment: The term active recreation is more a word of art than one with a precise definition. It obviously includes swimming, tennis and other court games, baseball and other field sports, track, and playground activities. There is a legitimate difference of opinion as to whether park use, per se, may be considered active recreation, although obviously some parks contain activity areas that would qualify.) Recreation, Passive: Activities that involve relatively inactive or less energetic activities, such as walking, sitting, picnicking, card games, chess, checkers, and similar table games. (Comment: The reason for the differentiation between active and passive recreation is their potential impacts on surrounding land uses. Passive recreation can also mean space for nature walks and observation.) Residential Use: Any land use that provides for living space. Examples include artist studio /dwellings; boarding houses, caretaker's quarters, single and multi- family homes, special residences, floating homes, and mobile homes. Rezone: Reclassification of a currenth- zoned area for a different use. Definitions January, 1999 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Rezoning: Rezoning is a legislative act and can be legal only if enacted by the governing body. Rezoning can take two forms: a. A comprehensive revision or modification of the zoning text and map; and b. A change in the map, such as the zoning designation of a particular parcel or parcels. Right -of -Way: Land in which the state, county, or city owns the fee simple title or has an easement dedicated or required for a transportation or utility use. The right -of -way is the right to pass over the property of another. It refers to a strip of land legally established for the use of pedestrians, vehicles or utilities. Runoff: That portion of precipitation which flows over the land surface and enters the storm drainage system during and immediately following a storm event. The rapidity of runoff and the amount of water removed are affected by slope, texture (e.g., the structure and porosity of the soil surface), vegetation, and prevailing climate. Sanitary Sewers or Wastewater Collection & Treatment Systems: Those sewers which carry waterborne wastes from household industrial and commercial users from the point of origin to the treatment plants for treatment and disposal. SEPA: See State Environmental Policy Act. Single Family Unit: Any one - family dwelling having a permanent foundation. The term includes single - family detached and attached structures which can be defined as follows: a. Single Family Detached Unit: A building containing one dwelling unit and that is not attached to any other dwelling by any means and is surrounded by yards or open space; and b. Single Family Attached Unit: A one - family dwelling attached to up to three other one - family dwellings by a common vertical wall (see also duplex, triplex and fourplex). State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA): The state law passed in 1971 requiring state and local agencies to consider environmental impacts in the decision - making process (codified at Chapter 43.2 21 RCW). A Determination of Environmental Significance (DS) must be made for all nonexempt projects or actions which require a permit, license or decision from a government agency. If the action does not have significant adverse environmental impacts, a Declaration of Non Significance (DNS) is issued. If the action or project could have major impacts, an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is required. SEPA requires consideration of alternatives and mitigation of environmental impacts for major public and private projects and programs. Streetscape: The visual character of a street as determined by elements such as structures, access, greenery, open space, and view. Upzoning: A change in the zoning classification of land to classification allowing more intensive development, such as a change from single family to multi- family. Urban Growth Areas (UGAs): Areas where urban growth will be encouraged. Counties and cities cooperatively establish the urban growth areas, and cities must be located inside urban growth areas. Once the UGAs are established, cities cannot annex land outside the urban growth area. Growth outside of urban growth areas must be rural in nature. Watershed: The geographic region within which water drains into a particular river, stream, or body of water. A watershed includes hills, lowlands, and the body of water into which the land drains. Definitions January, 1999 CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE FUNCTIONAL PLAN Zoning Map: The official Land Use Map which classifies all land within the city with one of the land uses. Definitions January, 1999