HomeMy WebLinkAbout062524 PRTTAB Meeting Packetlilyof
TownseM.
PARKS, RECREATION, TREES, & TRAILS ADVISORY BOARD
Agenda
June 25, 2024 1 4:30 p.m. I Virtual or In Person Meeting
City Council Chambers, 540 Water Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368
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7191
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Welcome, Introduction & Call to Order - Chair Debbie Jahnke
Good afternoon and welcome to this meeting of the Port Townsend Parks, Recreation, Trees & Trails
Advisory Board. The role of this Board is to assist City staff and to advise the City Council on
legislative matters concerning parks, recreation, trees and trails.
This meeting is open to the public at the City Council Chambers, virtually via this web format, and is
also being video recorded for those who could not attend the meeting today and for future
reference. Given that this meeting is in virtual format, we ask that the board members raise their
hands to be called on by the Chair. The public can do the same to comment during the public
comment periods. We take public comment at the beginning and end of the meeting.
I. Roll Call:
II. Approval of Agenda/Changes to Agenda:
III. Approval of Minutes:
IV. Public Comment (3 minutes per person/agenda items only):
V. Old Business (40 min)
A. PROS Plan update — 6 year update or Comp Plan (Carrie Hite)
B. Lawrence and Tyler Street (Steve)
C. Tree subcommittee update — final draft tree list (Debbie, Robin, Russell, Richard)
D. Landmark Tree Application Review — PW Director review criteria —Application review next
meeting.
VI. New Business (40 min)
A. 2025 Work Plan — From Letter — See attached.
i. What is the status of your work in 2024 to date (i.e., highlights, accomplishments,
future milestones)? What work from this year is likely to continue into 2025?
ii. What 2-3 priorities do you and your board believe are most important to consider as
part of the overall City workplan and related to your purpose and role as an advisory
body?
iii. What has gone well this year that we should learn from or consider more broadly?
iv. Are there things we should stop doing or do differently, both at strategic and
operational levels?
V. What else should we be considering?
B. Set date and time for next meeting since there is a meeting conflict.
VII. Staff update — (10 min)
A. Gratitude for Bre Ganne's service
B. Urban Forestry Plan Update (Robin, Michael)
C. Operations - Michael
D. Pool process update - Carrie
Vill. Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting: July 23, 2024 (conflict will need to reschedule)
IX. Public Comment:
X. Adjourn:
lilyof
TownseM.
PARKS, RECREATION, TREES, & TRAILS ADVISORY BOARD
MINUTES
May 28, 2024 1 4:30 p.m. I Virtual or In Person Meeting
City Council Chambers
• Join via computer or tablet at.http://*oinwebinar.com enter 9 digit Webinar ID 752-525-115
• Join by phone in listen -only mode: (360)390-5064 Ext. 3 access code: 699-128-175#
• Submit public comment to be included in the meeting record to:
https://Publiccomment.fillout.com/citvofpt
• If you are experiencing technical difficulties, please attempt all methods listed above before
reporting any issues to: clerksupport@cityofpt.us
Welcome, Introduction & Call to Order at 4:30pm by Chair Debbie Jahnke
Good afternoon and welcome to this meeting of the Port Townsend Parks, Recreation, Trees & Trails
Advisory Board. The role of this Board is to assist City staff and to advise the City Council on
legislative matters concerning parks, recreation, trees and trails.
This meeting is open to the public at the City Council Chambers, virtually via this web format, and is
also being video recorded for those who could not attend the meeting today and for future
reference. Given that this meeting is in virtual format, we ask that the board members raise their
hands to be called on by the Chair. The public can do the some to comment during the public
comment periods. We take public comment at the beginning and end of the meeting.
I. Roll Call: Pam Adams, Matt Miner, Jim Todd, Becci Kimball, Richard Hefley and Debbie Jahnke
present, Russell Hill absent excused. Staff present included Steve King, Robin Hill, Carrie Hite and
Michael Todd. Council liaison Monica MickHoger present.
II. Approval of Agenda/Changes to Agenda: approved by consensus
III. Approval of May 28, 2024 Minutes: approved by consensus
IV. Public Comment (3 minutes per person/agenda items only): One comment in the packet
expressed concern with development in Cappy's Trails; Steve responded - in our Comprehensive Plan
process we evaluate buildable lands so we will work through that process; the 'puzzle' of Cappy's
Trails deals with property rights for privately owned parcels. Our 'open space and buildable lands'
subcommittee has not yet been engaged but will do so in the Comp Plan process. Becci asked if the
potential Parks Foundation might be of help, Steve stated that the Jefferson Land Trust is a logical
partner. A neighbor of the 12th and Hancock property, Eric Negle, spoke about concerns with the
development plan for the park, advocating for quiet activities, no parking on the ROW, and other
concerns including a request for a fence or hedge separating the private property from the park.
Carrie confirmed that the agreement is subject to Council approval.
V. Old Business (60 min)
A. PROS Plan update (Carrie Hite and Michael Todd): Proposed update to PROS Plan to
accomodate development of the two parks. Redline version is in packet with two concept
plans; this will be going to Council on June 3. Board recommended the updated PROS Plan be
forwarded to Council with Jim Todd moving, Pam Adams seconding.
1. Port Townsend Golf Park: six committee members from golf park community
assembled for design discussion; Jump Playground style was chosen for inclusivity.
2. 12t" and Hancock: nature play area planned.
B. Discovery Road update and possible plant substitution (Laura Parsons): Plant substitutions
necessitated by lack of available stock, considerable discussion about the logistical
concerns of trying to find stock at a single vendor. Richard Hefley inquired about the issues
of availability and noted that nurseries must be certified, minimums on quantity for
wholesale were discussed, we have a requirement for low bid, Prairie Fire or Prairie Snow
cultivars were suggested if available as some issues with the proposed Red Barron were
noted, Green Pillar a good choice to substitute for Zelkovas; substitution of a seeded sweet
gum for the proposed seedless variety discussed, different Ceanothus variety than listed
was discussed, with concern about effect of abrupt cold temperatures on drought -tolerant
cultivars, Laura Parsons noted that the amount of maintenance must be considered.
C. Tyler and Lawrence Street Project — planting plan update (Robin, Richard, Steve, Laura): Staff
are in the process of laying out the design and a tree/shrub list for Tyler; planter size about
2x2x4 or 5ft with structural options for intact removal of plants for replanting; questions
about PUD plans for future undergrounding, trees/shrubs will have to stay narrow or be
pruned; six callery pears will be removed; location will gain 13 plus the ones in planters for
Tyler. Lawrence planting needs to account for soil volume, rain gardens; removing three
hornbeams and adding ten(?) new trees/shrubs. Monica MickHager spoke about the
importance of selecting narrow trees and shrubs for the planters, like Ceanothus Victoria and
rhodies. Some discussion occurred about Logerstroemia and adding wax myrtle, arborized.
D. Tree subcommittee update (Robin, Debbie, Richard): Subcommittee nearly finished with the
street tree list, in addition to a park and open space list and an understory list. We need to
talk to the PUD to groundtruth our list.
VI. New Business (20 min)
A. Park Name Recommendation (Steve) - Port Townsend Golf Park - our code allows only City
Council to name parks and other public facilities; the recommendation is that the Port
Townsend Golf Park is the official name in the lease so Golf Park staff can use Camas
Prairie Park as a dba. Board recommended with Jim Todd moving, Matt Miner seconding.
B. Landmark tree nomination - Mature madrone in Sather, SW corner, 48 inches diameter;
tree is on city -owned property, so Council will be asked to authorize or concur with
submission, electrical wires impact the tree so staff will ask the PUD that any needed
pruning will be done by City staff. Note that PW Director approves landmark submissions
on private property but Council must address any submissions on public land.
C. Dog Park update (Dena Odell) - Re-signing at the dog park of the most important rules to
replace the current sign. Dena read them aloud for discussion. Use of non -emergency
contact number to be used for most cases. Park is not for small children. No food allowed.
Jim recommended contact number be at the top of the rules. Unaltered dogs are a concern
and unaltered males are the cause of about 85% of attacks nationwide, so they must be
closely supervised. Current veterinary guidance is to not neuter large dogs until mature, so
this is a concern to address. Toys are shareable by all dogs. No digging. Rules are
enforceable and codes will be cited. This must be approved by the City Manager as
administrative. Becci recommended finding and posting a video on aggressive play. Two
other rules about dog feces cleanup will be on small signs on the fences; the ordinance
number should be quoted on the signs. Each pen will have a sign to remove any leash
before entry. Staff is creating a pamphlet to hand out. Dog handlers need to be at least 16,
children under 13 must be supervised. Dena also provided visuals of proposed new play
equipment for dogs, including structures made of large tires or wooden cable spools.
Debbie Jahnke moved, Pam Adams seconded, recommended by board. Jim suggested that
we provide the work of prior board members on dog rules to staff.
VII. Staff update — (10 min)
A. Operations -(Michael): Staff is working on trails, both seasonals and permanent staff,
volunteers are working individually on trail segments. Some discussion about reconstituting
volunteer workparties for trails.
B. Pool process update -(Carrie): Mountain View proposed location would require PFD funding
countywide and County Commission did not support a PFD with the Mountain View location.
Decision was to create another task force; two possibilities - a Sprung structure and/or a
Hadlock location. It is the County Commission's decision for location.
Vill. Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting: June 25, 2024
IX. Public Comment: none
X. Adjourn: 5:49 pm
3
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PARKS, RECREATION &
COMMUNITY SERVICES
TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROWS PARKS
1'� I ",,J A J ll,,! 1 2 02 4
City Council
David Faber
Amy Howard
Monica MickHager
Owen Rowe
Ben Thomas
Aislinn Palmer
Libby Wennstrom
Parks, Recreation and Tree Advisory Board
Deborah Jahnke
Jim Todd
Russel Hill
Pamela Adams
Matt Miner
Richard Hefley
Planning Commission
Viki Sonntag
Lois Stanford
Robert Doyle
Andreas Andreadis
Samantha Bair Jones
Neil Nelson
Rick Jahnke
Parks, Recreation & Community Services
Department
Carrie Hite, Parks Strategic Director
Michael Todd, Parks and Facilities Manager
Bre Ganne, Lead Operator — Parks
Shawn Wiles, Operator I - Parks
Lisa Titterness, Maintenance Worker - Parks
Brenda Burke, Crew Chief— Facilities
Terry Kurtzbein, Maintenance Facilities
Chan Hettle, Maintenance Worker — Facilities
Other Departments
John Mauro, City Manager
Jodi Adams, Finance and Administrative
Services Director
Rich Gould, Finance Manager
Emma Bolin, Planning and Community
Development Director
Judy Surber, Planning Manager
Consultants
BERK Consulting, Inc. (prime)
HBB Landscape Architecture
Special Thanks
A special thank you to the numerous Port Townsend community members and
stakeholder agencies who provided their time and thoughtful ideas to help the
City create this PROS Plan for 2024.
Executive Summary i
Purpose i
Why Parks and Trails? i
Community Engagement Themes ii
Inventory and Needs iii
System Plan v
Pairk,s V
I iraIIIs N
Funding and Facilities X
FiAmflng X
CapO,al FadHky P. an Ah
Management and Implementation Xv
Plan Contents Xvi
Vision & Foundation 1
Introduction and Purpose 1
Vision 2
Planning Process 3
f'ROS Plan Update 3
Relal,JoinsKp to (Xhei� Plains 3
Goals& Policies 13
Introduction 13
Comprehensive Plan - Land Use Element 13
Op(,n Spaces &. Tirafls '13
Pairks and Rec.reation — FAcflhtk"s and Pirogirairris 16
Pairks and Recreation — Adrniinistirafloin and OpeiralJoins 19
Pairks and Rf.!(,ireaton — BRI(AgEA and Funding 1,9
0�h(.�,ir Policies 20
Comprehensive Plan — Capital Facilities Element
20
Facilities & Programs Inventory
21
Introduction
21
History
21
Port I ownSE"ind liec'ir'E�,Itioin
21
Facilities
24
Pairlks
24
1'ra l I s
29
F�acHffies
31
Otheir Parks and I�eci�eatIoin 1a(J I ties
:# 1
°)2
Recreation
34
Maintenance and Operations
35
Community Profile & Engagement
37
Community Profile
37
Ag(:,,
37
Households
38
DiveirsiLy
-3 9
1ncorne
40
Health Survey
41
Community Engagement 43
V�sk)n Survey 44
{ D
'airk FeIatures aind Pirk)irY hes 443
Vision i heiryies 48
Demand & Need
Introduction
51
51
Recreation Trends 51
Wash�ingtoin State and 11eirdinsulas Reg�bin I)aiMJcJpadon Trends, 51.
Nafloinal Recr'Ema[,Join INograirnirrdrig and FacflNyTireinds 52
Poft'lbwnseind IRecr(:Mfloin lNeeds 53
Participation 54
0 ty 55
Otheir Recireaboin Ilrovideirs 'iin IPorl I MAIinseind Arears 55
Future Growth and Change 58
PopukMJoin Girowbh 58
I ouirisirn I Irene s 59
Gaps and Opportunities 59
Parks 59
Tra � I s 61
Recreation 64
Benchmarks 65
Level of Service 69
Adqpled ILevel of Servk,,e 69
� a irget I OS 70
Park & Recreation System Plan 75
Parks 75
GuRfing Prin(,Jples 75
Herarchy of llarks 75
Wrflrnurn Standairds/Allowaale Features 79
Coincept [31ans 89
Special Use Facilities 100
Mlouin[laiin View Pool 1.00
[�Iorl� lownSEnnd Goff llairk lrolr
Trails 102
Hkeirarchy 1,02
Walkway SyStENrn 1,03
Wirdirnurn Standairds/Allowable LJses 1,05
Programs 108
Funding and Facilities Plan 111
Operations and Capital Funding ill
[fistorc and Proa ected Qperal:ions and Caph:al Revenue 1,1..I
Qpeira6oins arid CapIital Revenue 1�:uindiiirig (.") ptil'o iris L3
Programs and Cost IRecnaarery 121
Capital Facility Plan 121
Implementation Strategies
127
Monitoring
127
Phasing
128
Partnership & Funding Opportunities
128
Volunteerism
128
Donations/Fund Raising
129
Asset Management
130
Roui6ine Marriteinaince
130
Deferred !\Uintleriairx;e
1]31
ACCEmSSiibiiliity
1]31
Sr,Mairdslflp and Mlauinb:ainaince Plans
1,32
Environmental Conservation
132
Community Education & Promotion
133
Plan Coordination
133
References 135
Appendix A Park System Inventory Cut Sheets
Appendix B Community Engagement Results
Appendix C Open Space and Other Regional Assets
Appendix D Park Concept Cost Detail
Exhibit 1. PROS Plan Community Outreach and Engagement Efforts
Exhibit 2. Properties in a Half Mile of City, County, or State Parklands
iv
Exhibit 3. Park Classifications Map
vi
Exhibit 4. Park Classification Summary Definitions
vii
Exhibit 5. Bobby McGarraugh Park — Neighborhood Active Park
viii
Exhibit 6. Funding and Financing Options Evaluation
A
Exhibit 7. Summary Capital Facility Plan Expenditure Type and Schedule
xiv
Exhibit 8. Capital Budget and Target Level of Service — Per Capita Investment
xiv
Exhibit 9. PROS Plan Update Schedule
3
Exhibit 10. Park Classification Summary Definitions
26
Exhibit 11. City, County, and State Parks
27
Exhibit 12. Parks Inventory with Classification and Park Size in Acres
28
Exhibit 13. Trail Inventory Feet and Miles, 2019
29
Exhibit 14. Trails by Zone
30
Exhibit 15. Port Townsend Recreation Facilities
31
Exhibit 16. Jefferson County Parks Facilities in Port Townsend
32
Exhibit 17. Schools and Recreational Facilities
33
Exhibit 18. Combined Facility Inventory: City, State, County, Schools
33
Exhibit 19. Youth Recreation Programming Landscape in Port Townsend
34
Exhibit 20. Adult Recreation Programming Landscape in Port Townsend
35
Exhibit 21. Maintenance and Operations — Full Time and Seasonal Positions and Full -Time
Equivalents
35
Exhibit 22. Age Distribution in 2010 and 2017
38
Exhibit 23. Persons Per Household
39
Exhibit 24. Household Income Shares 2010 and 2017
40
Exhibit 25. Vision & System Plan Participation Summary
43
Exhibit 26. Survey Participants: Frequency of Use
44
Exhibit 27. Top Recreation Activities
45
Exhibit 28. Survey Priorities — How would you spend $100 — All Respondents (n=589)
47
Exhibit 29. Vision Workshop: What do you want in your parks?
47
Exhibit 30. Vision Themes
Exhibit 31. Top-10 Outdoor Recreation Activities for the Peninsulas Region by Rank, 2017
Exhibit 32. Top Planned Facilities and Programs by Rank, 2019
Exhibit 33. Future Port Townsend Recreation Programming Needs, All Respondents
Exhibit 34. Future Port Townsend Recreation Programming Needs, Youth Respondents
Exhibit 35. Participation in City of Port Townsend Recreation Programs
Exhibit 36. Participation in YMCA of Jefferson County Recreation Programming
Exhibit 37. Participation in Jefferson County Parks and Recreation Programming
Exhibit 38. Population Growth and Growth Target
Exhibit 39. Population Growth Rates
Exhibit 40. Properties in a Half Mile of City, County, or State Parklands
Exhibit 41. Potential Loop Trail
Exhibit 42. Better Use of Parks and Trails
Exhibit 43. Community Engagement Trail Improvement Requests
Exhibit 44. Peer Communities Reviewed
Exhibit 45. Total Acres per 1,000 Population
Exhibit 46. Trail Miles per 1,000 Population
Exhibit 47. Facility Benchmarking
Exhibit 48. Maintenance and Operations Expenditures per Acre of Managed Sites
Exhibit 49. Operating Expenses per Capita 2019
Exhibit 50. LOS Evaluation: Comprehensive Plan 7.6 Acres per 1,000 Population
Exhibit 51. Investment Per Capita 2019
Exhibit 52. Future Investment 2019-2036
Exhibit 53. Example Agency Annual Capital Investments
Exhibit 54. Maintenance Per Capita 2019
Exhibit 55. Park Classifications Map
Exhibit 56. Park Areas of Focus/Key Features
Exhibit 57. Community Parks
Exhibit 58. Neighborhood Parks
Exhibit 59. Downtown Parks
Exhibit 60. Garden (Landscape) Parks
Exhibit 61. Special Use Parks
Exhibit 62. Key Features of Park Concept Plans
48
52
53
53
54
55
55
56
58
58
60
61
63
63
65
66
67
67
68
69
70
72
72
72
73
76
78
79
83
85
87
88
89
Exhibit 63. Chetzemoka Park Concept 91
Exhibit 64. Kah Tai Lagoon Park Concept 93
Exhibit 65. 35th Street Park Concept 95
Exhibit 66. Bobby McGarraugh Park Concept 97
Exhibit 67. Sather Park Concept 99
Exhibit 68. Port Townsend Loop Trail 104
Exhibit 69. Standard Detail — Multi Use Trail 106
Exhibit 70. Standard Detail — Neighborhood Connector and Undeveloped Shortcut 107
Exhibit 71. Recreation Program Cycle 109
Exhibit 72. Historic and Projected Parks and Recreation Revenues, 2009 to 2036 (Nominal$) 112
Exhibit 73. Historic and Projected Parks and Recreation Cost Recovery, 2009 to 2036 (Nominal$)
113
Exhibit 74. Maximum Levy Amount, 2021-2024 (Nominal $)
115
Exhibit 75. Funding and Financing Options Evaluation
119
Exhibit 76. Maintenance Objective: Deferred Maintenance and Capital Replacement
123
Exhibit 77. Investment per Capita Objective: New Investments at Existing Parks
124
Exhibit 78. Equitable Access and Distribution Objective: Fill Gaps in Parks and Trails Network 125
Exhibit 79. Summary Capital Facility Plan Expenditure Type and Schedule
125
Exhibit 80. Capital Budget and Target Level of Service — Per Capita Investment
126
Exhibit 81. Potential Monitoring Measures and Targets
127
Exhibit 82. Maintenance Appreciation —Vision Survey
130
PROS PLAN
TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
PURPOSE
The Port Townsend 2024 Parks, Recreation and Open Space Functional Plan (PROS Plan) guides
the City's parks and recreation system. It updates and replaces the 2020 PROS Plan. Several
updates have been introduced in 2024 and are within this document.
The PROS Plan update is essential to maintain eligibility for Washington State Recreation and
Conservation Office (RCO) grants. It is also designed to meet the requirements of the State of
Washington Growth Management Act (GMA):
Designate the general location and extent of land uses including recreation and open space
lands;
Estimate park and recreation demand for at least a
ten-year period; and
Identify lands useful for recreation, including wildlife
habitat, trails, and connection of critical areas;
Develop a capital facilities plan (CFP) identifying funds
necessary to implement the plan for at least a six -year
period.
I Ids IlIft )S Ilan supports 11fi
C,oi"Ir'uprdeir'nr!pilve Main VuaHkwi to cirea te:
ap coir nlrTMi nity wilq h a seIruse of rniistoiry
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The goals and objectives in this PROS Plan reflect those in the Comprehensive Plan.
WHY PARKS AND TRAILS?
Parks and trails are essential to Port Townsend's quality of life, and provide opportunities for:
Living a healthy active lifestyle,
Connecting with families and the community at park spaces and events,
Supporting the local economy and tourism,
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Connecting with nature,
Conserving fish and wildlife habitat including water quality and wildlife
corridors, and
Providing tree canopy contributing positively to air quality and
mitigating climate change.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT THEMES
The PROS Plan Update is based on public outreach and engagement to
help define a new vision, needs, and actions. The City provided extensive
public input opportunities identified in Exhibit 1.
Exhibit 1. PROS Plan Community Outreach and Engagement Efforts
`.outc(, ICI H�l<Consu 9.ii� Bi lY1
Engagement results revealed several Vision Themes for Port Townsend's
Parks and Recreation System carried forward in the PROS Plan:
Balancing aging in place and coming of age in Port Townsend
Indoor and outdoor recreation for healthy lifestyles
Access, navigability, and safety
Green spaces
Specialization, flexibility, versatility and creative partnerships
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
These PROS Plan Vision Themes are consistent with the Comprehensive Plan Vision to ensure
Port Townsend is great place to live, with a sense of place, that prizes its natural setting.
P'Ks AND ice»
INVENTORY AND NEEDS
Port Townsend manages about 189.2 acres of parkland
A 20111. >t:udy fbLflrid that Sea ttil I"'s paalrks
and 26 properties ranging from street end retreats to
extensive open spaces to active recreation areas that serve
much larger areas. Port Townsend also manages over 31
miles of trails largely on unimproved rights of way. The
City's parks contain a variety of facilities including
playgrounds, picnic shelters and benches, paths, and
special facilities such as dog parks.
Carrying forward the City's Level of Service policy to
provide 7.6 acres of parkland per 1,000 population about 7
acres of developed parks would be needed by 2036.
Consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, this measure
excludes the golf park and wetland/water areas of Kah Tai
Lagoon. If the golf park were broadly available for public
use the deficit of acres could be reversed.
While the City's overall park system largely meets the
needs of the community today, and there is ample
parkland provided at Fort Worden and recreation offerings
syaalaarrn was worth crveir 650 rnfllllo n wwlHlii
vaallll.m a:oi ntir llbu tinarns Iirncllu.uflirg
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fnrraprlirn~nuty
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Stkalr'Irlrnawaaatr°Ir" Im allnaagerlrna`Int aaaallu e
"I rust: for Pu.ulalua: II aurnd, 2011.
Vaalluue lilrnciveaase to Ihurplrrnes located araria;lhulilro
1.®II500 ft:eL of Chnra faallllrrwa rig types of parks:
\➢atu14r Areas„"a3.0,648
Goff IPaalrlksm : $8, 49
Sp eciaa lky Parks: $IIV 611 "7
u.a7lrlbaarn Parks: $1.,21
Active Il..liarulrug I11r�nrar�naalrchu, IlMay 2011.0
through County facilities, there are gaps in neighborhood parkland access in the west or
southwest of the community. See Exhibit 2. Ensuring there is parkland in proximity to a majority
of residents was highly supported in survey results.
To address system gaps and needs, the Plan establishes a target level of service or objectives to
provide for:
Equitable Access and Distribution
Function through:
a Per Capita Investment in Capital Facilities, and
a Per Capita or per Acre Investment in Maintenance.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS VV `S�f..
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Exhibit 2. Properties in a Half Mile of City, County, or State Parklands
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March 2020 PORTTOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS VV,
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
SYSTEM PLAN
Guiding principles have been established to steer the focus and the growth of the Port
Townsend parks and recreation system. These principles are to work in concert with the Vision
Themes and are incorporated throughout the PROS plan update to best meet the needs of the
community.
Address deferred maintenance and critical maintenance needs.
Develop park stewardship and master plans to guide investments.
Invest in existing parks to meet community desires (or demands, needs, etc.) and address
expected growth.
Achieve equitable access and distribution by filling in gaps in central and western Port
Townsend through improved trails, partnerships, and targeted acquisitions.
��IIIII',f IIII��^
Parks are classified based on their function and service area:
Community Park
Neighborhood Park
Downtown Park
Garden Park
Special Use Park
Park sub -classifications include "Active" or "Nature" and are combined with Community and
Neighborhood Parks.
Classified parks are mapped on Exhibit 3. Summary definitions follow in Exhibit 4.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS °,
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Exhibit 3. Park Classifications Map
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P''%I [BERK
Jvf,1,
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS '
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Exhibit 4. Park Classification Summary Definitions
Primary Classes
Community Park Community Parks are larger parks providing a variety of major recreation facilities, open space,
and/or recreation programming, serve multiple neighborhoods and are a generally treated as a
destination for visitors. Community Parks often reflect a shared community identity and offer
flexibility across recreation and programming types throughout the year. Their size and range of
offerings attract visitors and neighbors who may travel from further distances and stay longer
periods of time, requiring more allowance and provisions for parking, seating, restrooms and family
support amenities. Sub -classes identify if the park is more Active or Nature focused.
Neighborhood Park Neighborhood Parks are smaller than Community Parks and intended for frequent and convenient
access to basic recreation activities and opportunities. These parks best serve nearby residents and
visitors in less formal or organized recreation and leisure. Neighborhood Parks provide open space
values. They are less suited for longer stays, heavily programmed activities, or larger rental or
permit -required spaces. These parks prioritize open space over parking and encourage visitation
through pedestrian and bike networks. Sub -classes identify if the park is more Active or Nature
focused.
Downtown Park
Downtown Parks are located in the downtown/uptown urban core and provide plazas and urban
community gathering and special event spaces, waterfront or shoreline access, art and cultural
facilities, or picnic or other passive enjoyment facilities. In some instances, Downtown Parks serve
the needs met by neighborhood parks for residents living in the urban core. These parks may be
referenced in other Comprehensive and Subarea Plans as Urban Pocket Parks, the 2014
Classification.
Garden Park
Garden parks include medians, gateways, rights of way, and small greenspaces, with ornamental
plantings, trees and sometimes limited amenities such as a bench or interpretive signage. They are
small in size and may only provide a visual buffer or beautification enhancement to the urban or
other environment that surrounds them.
Special Use Park
Special Use Parks are designed for specialized or single -purpose recreation activities. These purposes
may include golf parks, marinas, sport complexes, community and aquatic centers, historical areas,
nature centers, conservatories, amphitheaters, or other purposes. These parks typically offer a
narrower range of recreation uses or amenities. This classification can be combined with others.
Sub -Classes
Nature
This sub -classification identifies parks where the primary purposes include nature and wildlife habitat
conservation, passive recreation such as trails and viewpoints, and educational and cultural
appreciation elements. Intensive areas of development are limited based on the environmental
characteristics of the park.
Active
This sub -classification identifies parks that are designed for frequent and convenient access to
recreation activities and opportunities such as family activities (picnic, gathering), active recreation
(play, sports, other), and passive recreation (trails, open lawn/turf, informal activity). These parks
would also contribute open space and environmental values.
Soui,ce: Oily cyl Izorl Iownr,end, i4f i41;, 2019
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS +>, ``,
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Each park should be improved over time to achieve minimum standards or offer allowed uses
to meet the needs of the community and to provide for consistent and sustainable
management and maintenance.
The PROS Plan includes example concept plans identifying how different parks could be
improved over time; these are meant to provide broad illustrations of amenities. Master plans
and stewardship plans would be prepared for parks and may differ. An example concept plan
for Bobby McGarraugh Park follows.
Exhibit 5. Bobby McGarraugh Park — Neighborhood Active Park
r r "
`,ollrce:I I141B jnd r alai ht(Jtilcc1llrc. 2011).
DRAH" lanuary 2020
- - •
Trail Entrance: Neighboiihood connection
to hillside trails
--•
Native Forest: Improve plantings on slope
to prevent sofil evosion
-- •
Fitness Area: All age fitness elernents &
obstacle course
--•
Adventure Trail: ball, throughout the
hillside with playful eleinenat inteirwoven
_ `•
Hillside Slide: Slide cminecting the
adventure halls to She play wea With
%i
rnulfilAe access routes
-
Spray Pad: Accessible water play featLites
--
Restroom: Moved to central location
on site
- •
Rock Climbing Wall: Low climbable rock
wall along hillside with connection to
adventure trails
- - •
Adventure Play Area
- - -
Improved Entrance Sidewalk & wayfinddng
signs to increase safe bike & pedestrain
access to park
----`
Picnic Area: ADA picnic shelters &tables
ra+rdport.,*t
Townsenr
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Typically existing parks are zoned Existing Park and Open Space (P/OS(A)). The "district has
been applied to existing city, county, and state-owned parks, recreation areas, and city -owned
or controlled lands which provide valuable natural and open space functions." In addition to the
PROS Plan classifications and minimum standards, the City's zoning standards would apply
including allowable uses, bulk, and dimensional standards.
i1c)irt 1rb ln.aaalr cn Ihaas as very aadlrcnrngl Iilrichi haa�d:ua.brn d:rnnnraard wefli Ihuar 1ngg and ggananaJl Ihunaaaithn. The Insaguulraai aauulrlrauu.ulruafurhggs that
e irNbra ce the d:aanabrh all )ng with the parks systrbrnn auraa as Irnuaajoir focus for everyday aar donr1d.'hr.na and r;rblrrrulrrruENrrs., C d ozrarns
haeinefit flrabrnrn gdlrnrne rallse nd. a:buuldaaHe lilru umuatu.ulraalll suulrra:bubrhaglnngfs as found in the Iluda,lraag:uulu a. Ireg;aaraf1ing„ g:hnaa hba:,rhefodna of suula':Ilmu
gnlrana_dllce s as nsMind n°°ya:bku, or frneand bathing, Sturfles, have Qga"IThh:arr"Ar'ra:aa:R that tIk ne salr7w".Irnd paaaa`r`Ilv6y Ilan rnrnd4ne
decirea aes b bod piressnabs'«, heart rate, coin Ikon and rbg':ha;,"Ir" "sdlre s`,a hoi l II"Ilaalrnes nFnJhda';,". b7S7S,"ad':Illr"Ilgl Ilirnllr"IrIUJllrle sy"sd':a"ICVII factors,
fffldl:e et A (2019) daulrnnaaruagdlrante aarudhu an subject Id poi of Inaaady 20,000 Ipaaftic;lpaints IIhnall: the increase in the
nuauulhbpu_a:d:ive feet llir°uggas of good hrnanh:hn and na efliI being a s salgflnliflia:aang:iy corr6anadanag with dime aallraaunt in uua-ud:aar'aana widno
aahln2aarein : aaaldffiloinaai nuce_aruruf t frrbrru active ra,r.raaaaflloin. Peak. d,braa:a� )fllons of good huaaaah:hu and n raii..hbeingg occurred at
111.2.0 Irnnlilnu,uga s por week, whuandh er as an sr nggllh� nruwrild: or raawnaaralraull shhualyda.Irrau.aligs,
"" (A sh:bh.4,RJiabin of Nature and 6 ore.ug II hnuwraaday Guides and IPrrbg,raurrn.u, 2019) (frhd'Ihirt , 2.03.9(
ra fl s
With a history of platting beginning in 1852, a number of blocks and rights of way were planned
in Port Townsend but were not developed. On the undeveloped rights -of -way the City planned
and coordinated trail improvements, and volunteers established and maintained public trails
that are now maintained by the City. In addition the multimodal regional Larry Scott Trail
meanders at the edge of Port Townsend Bay and extends into unincorporated Jefferson County.
The Community Engagement results show the public uses their trails a lot and desire better
connected trails. Most want to see a loop trail and would be satisfied with either a signed route
utilizing different trail types or a multi -purpose trail along with improving trail connections and
amenities that would also help encourage more use of parks in Port Townsend as desired in
PROS Plan survey and meeting results and community health surveys.
Community input received during the 2020 PROS Plan process affirms the Community Direction
Statement in the Comprehensive Plan which envisions "....a larger network of trails that lead to
surrounding districts and residential neighborhoods. This loop also unites an extensive system
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS `,`,, .
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
of parks and open spaces, including many environmentally sensitive areas that provide
significant wildlife habitat." This vision for a potential loop trail is reflected on the Land Use
Map adopted in concert with the Comprehensive Plan.
Specifically, the P/OS(A) - Potential Park and Open Space (overlay) shown on the Land Use Map
"includes areas that may have the potential to be included within a comprehensive and
interconnected system of open spaces and trails. The P/OS(A) overlay appears in areas that
could be valuable if maintained as open spaces, such as wooded areas, drainage corridors, and
scenic vistas. These areas could accommodate multiple functions, including lower density
residential development, stormwater management, wildlife habitat, and passive recreation.
Three primary approaches are being considered in the development of this network: outright
purchase of key properties; incentives for landowners to cluster new development in areas
outside, or on the margins, of open space areas; and reductions in allowable density."
Comprehensive Plan Land Use Goal 2 Policy 3.2.2 recommends zoning and subdivision code
amendments to provide open space incentives including clustered developments and planned
unit developments (PUDs). See Appendix C, Open Space Assets.
This PROS Plan supports the implementation of Comprehensive Plan Land Use Element Goal 3
to "develop a comprehensive open space and trails plan and implementation program" and the
implementation of the Non -Motorized Transportation Plan that accomplishes a loop trail and
many other priority connections.
FUNDING AND FACILITIES
F iiii iiiii iiii
As public goods, City parks and recreation services are largely supported by public monies,
similar to the vast majority of municipalities across Washington State. This PROS Plan includes a
financial situation assessment that:
Analyzes the City's historic and projected revenues and expenditures to estimate expected
available resources; and
Identifies the City's potential funding and partnership options, based on current policies and
potential new policies, to address any anticipated future funding gaps.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS _.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Currently, the City has primarily funded its parks and recreation services through the
Community Services Fund, which includes revenues from property taxes, sales taxes, utility
taxes, and transfers from the General Fund. As the Community Services Fund also funds other
City services, demand for resources is competitive and may be constrained in the future. To
mitigate the risk of constrained resources on delivering parks and recreation services, the City
should identify and pursue alternative parks and recreation funding sources.
Each of the potential funding or financing sources is screened according to these criteria:
Magnitude. Estimates the order of magnitude of these options.
Feasibility. Estimates how realistic each option is to be used for parks and recreation
revenues.
Flexibility. Estimates the extent to which each option is restricted for certain purposes, or
vice versa.
See Exhibit 6 for a funding and financing option evaluation summary.
Exhibit 6. Funding and Financing Options Evaluation
Current Available Options
capital only;
Real Estate Excise Tax
$100,000s
currentlyearmarked for
debt payment
paths and trails;
Motor Vehicle Fuel Tax
$1,000S
currently used for
transportation
projects
Utility Taxes
$1 00,000S
politically
unfeasible
PropertyTaxfrom Fire
capital onlyV
District Annexation
��
$100,000s
(2012-2023; then
unrestricted)
Possible Future Options
Grants
$100,000s
P„
ll:�i"���������"��i11
often require
matching funds
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
capital only,•
Parks Impact Fees ° $10,000s Council action
required
Metropolitan Parks District*$1,000,00 vote required
Os
Parks Levy $1,000,00 vote required
Os
Financing Options
Parks and Open Space GO $1,000,00 vote required,•
Debt I" Os capital only
Noler ,, "An I'lHID r.aaaald he foi, i,.ru lkilrle pulaose and (_fJp2iate a lu;+ral; g�ii ?n'Al p ai I<s rrirrf rvilahin
el� l ei, r.f'o;y rai sa of (Ji y'and Ccujiit,/ I linaricirig, rahrktons sfr„, nc)t 1HVV i WE'Ili e hria aai e
rruarvhi anisir s to rrafavr,r money 4:hrnuq:,h P:irne
Sc'�wi'cr , 13,Ellh1, 2019,
Most large funding sources require voter action. All funding opportunities involve tradeoffs
between priorities (for example, transportation versus parks), political will (voter and/or
Council action), and changes in flexibility as implementation of most funding mechanisms
involve a reduction in funding capacity.
Grants and repurposing property tax from the fire district annexation represent the two most
likely funding increases for parks and recreation purposes. Either option has the possibility of
significantly increasing the revenues available for parks and recreation (10% or more of parks
and recreation expenditures), are existing revenue streams that could be increased, and offer
some flexibility in spending. Both options have competitive processes; City capital priorities will
be competing for the first three years of repurposed property tax and grant -making
organizations generally solicit requests to consider multiple possible projects to be funded.
The PROS Plan revenue analysis and exploration of funding opportunities helps the City
implement Comprehensive Plan Land Use Element Goal 6 to "Strive to adequately fund ongoing
parks and recreation programming and maintenance through proactive well -planned budgeting
practices, the pursuit of partnerships and the securing of grants."
In addition to the exploration of funding sources, this PROS plan addresses the importance of
volunteerism and donations. See the Implementation chapter.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS _;
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
C I'll
'IIIII III����acflltyIIIIIIIIIIiiii
In 2024, Port Townsend will implement a park capital facility plan. Agencies of similar size or
system have capital facility plans ranging from $250,000 to $1.1 million dollars per year with
over $800,000 the median value. To implement the Comprehensive Plan including Land Use
Element Policy 6.2, a capital program is included: "Policy 6.2: Establish an ongoing six -year
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for parks and recreation facilities." Three types of capital facility
project categories are addressed in the PROS Capital Facility Plan: maintenance, investments at
existing parks, and investments for equitable access and distribution.
Maintenance includes projects to address unmet capital replacement needs at existing parks.
Projects that provide capacity at existing parks, allowing more persons to enjoy Port Townsend
Parks include:
Improvements at Kah Tai Lagoon to increase passive recreation opportunities, improve
existing facilities, and conduct habitat restoration.
Improvements to picnic shelters, restrooms, and repairs to slope erosion at Chetzemoka
Park.
Longer -term improvements across the system to improve parks consistent with concept
plans or minimum classification standards.
To address equitable access and distribution objectives, a series of capital improvements would
address acquisition or partnerships to fill gaps in the parks and trail system. In the immediate 6-
year period, the investments would be to:
Fill in missing trail links to improve access to existing parks
Beginning minimum improvements for 35t" Street Park serving the western portion of the
city where gaps are identified, or similar lot.
Post 2027 additional park acquisitions are noted for central and southwest city limits to fill
other gaps.
Excluding an aquatic center, which is under discussion regionally by the City, County, and
YMCA, the total capital program is approximately $38.2 million. The 6-year investment is
approximately $6.6 million. See Exhibit 7.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Exhibit 7. Summary Capital Facility Plan Expenditure Type and Schedule
1. Maintenance $71,000 $1,294,000
2. Invest in Existing $1,069,875 $2,618,795
Parks
3.Equitable Access $600,000 $902,113
and Distribution
Total $1,740,875 $5,165,070
1�,urr,e f'o[t lGrvIIsa,^iiid 20191!;4GasIg„et. V.II"'8 201.9:"' E Its' 2 11'1.9.
$1,365,000
$227,500
$0
$1,365,000
$3,688,670
$614,778
$25,248,572
$28,937,242
$1,502,113
$250,352
$6,456,338
$7,958,450
$6,555,783
$1,092,630
$31,704,910
$38,260,692
On an annualized basis, if the City invests in only maintenance and existing parks in the 2020-
2026 period, the annual investment will equal about $842,278 per year. See Exhibit 8. This is
similar to the median investment per capita identified in the Level of Service analysis in Chapter
5. If the City invests in equitable access and distribution as well as maintenance and existing
parks over the next six years the annual investment will equal about $1,092,630 per year, at the
upper end of peer communities. This would be feasible if additional funding sources are
identified.
Exhibit 8. Capital Budget and Target Level of Service — Per Capita Investment
Port Townsend Target LOS - Per Capita $5,058,900 $843,150 See Target LOS, page 71
Investment
Priority Focus 6-Year with Feasible
Funds
Maintenance and Existing Parks $5,053,670 $842,278 Seek feasible funds, e.g. Grants, I'D
Annexation, Private, Other
Add as Funds Allow
Equitable Access and Distribution $1,502,113
$250,352 Where funding is more successful (e.g.
Grants), or if additional funds become
available, e.g. MPD, Levy, Other
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The overall capital budget at $38.2 million is greater than investment per capita enjoyed today.
It serves as a 40-year level of investment if population grows at a rate assumed in the
Comprehensive Plan. However, the more complete capital facilities list can be a source of
proposals for grant or partnership opportunities, and the list can serve as a guide to capital
proposals for future Comprehensive Plan Updates and PROS Plan Updates.
MANAGEMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION
In addition to addressing funding and resources, this plan suggests:
Setting a rate of maintenance resources as the system expands and developing an asset
management program,
Reviewing cost -recovery policies and evaluating programs to address community
engagement results,
Monitoring a set of performance measures, and over the long-term adaptively managing
the system,
Advancing environmental conservation,
Increasing partnership and funding opportunities,
Increasing the volunteer program and donations/fundraising, and
Integrating the PROS plan with the Comprehensive Plan.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS _°,
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PLAN CONTENTS
This PROS Plan is organized as follows:
Vision & Foundation
Goals & Policies
Facilities & Programs Inventory
Community Profile & Engagement
Demand & Need
Park & Recreation System Plan
Funding and Facilities Plan
Implementation Strategies
References
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
PLAN
TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE
Port Townsend's Comprehensive Plan recommends that the City "continue to address the
community's needs for active and passive recreation opportunities through the implementation
of the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Functional Plan."(Land Use Policy 4.1). The City's
Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Functional Plan (PROS Plan) was last updated and adopted
by the City Council in 2020. It is time in 2024 to reassess and adjust the plan for the future,
adopting it into th Comprehensive Plan in 2025..
Parks and recreation needs and demands will continue to increase and evolve as the City
grows. The provision of parks, open spaces, and recreational programs must be within the
means of the residents. As in most communities in America, the ongoing challenge of funding
park and recreation services forces hard choices.
The overall objective of the PROS Plan is to guide the development of park and recreation
facilities and programs that are responsive to the needs and interests of Port Townsend
residents for the next decades. It presents a logical, consistent, and purposeful approach to
managing parks and recreation services. Implementation of this PROS Plan will help preserve
and enhance the quality of life and the natural beauty that make the area home to its citizens
and a destination for visitors.
This PROS Plan examines Port Townsend's existing park and open space system, assesses needs,
identifies short- and long-term recommendations, details funding sources, and prioritizes our
next steps. It reflects the goals and policies for parks, recreation, and open space set forth in the
Comprehensive Plan. Through implementation of the PROS Plan, Port Townsend's parks and
recreation programs will be better able to provide a full range of recreational activities, park
assets, facilities and strategies to implement the open space component of the Comprehensive
Plan. In addition, it will maintain the City's eligibility for state and federal grant funds.
CH. 1 I VISION & FOUNDATION
VISION
The community direction statement from the Comprehensive Plan forms the foundation of this
PROS Plan. Parks and open space are a constant theme throughout the community direction
statement, as illustrated in the Textbox below, reflecting an integral role in the community's
identity. Residents and visitors alike enjoy parks and trails as part of their daily schedules and
take advantage of the city's waterfront and beach access. Whether enjoyed in solitude or as
gathering spaces, the park system of the City of Port Townsend enriches the life of the
community.
community with as sense of history and IIAacaan
i-Ilistorlkd coin nlrnneird;liaall Ihaalilldiings, Ilaang a~ staalhallli.,lhd.d resideindz ll areas, aalnd iaa:alrlkns„ towvin squ wires, and stireets
limed with tIrwadb4t groivwn Line City aarn aatlnndasp anlre of Irdbllaanudndi peirlmnaalrna°Irncen.
Parks, gateways, and vwaallkwvawys as re itch wa th hnuQa'i:dalrilc4i rrnornua rnaarn'ts and puaialic aalrt.
The Gi . iay °a'�rrraaa- Illrnar':a' vraa �, Frraai �„a, �alrna' aall lra�a;.a'�a�a provide shade a!alrna, habitat and Iraunlllrn�°ora;na Port '1f�ovwlrn;adiana, °a
netwolrlk of gireein spaces,
Open spaces offering an aapp oirtUlnity for rest, views, coin teirmnkallatioirn, and a: i njaaylrunaalrn�t of the Irnaa'tualra i
ei nvlilranl nlrna int aare found throughout the City.
as Ipi®ace that Ipirize s its i settling
The Inaa�a.ualraall setting of tlhnin °"Key City" of t� hrn 11PenainSLalla is a accuan�a.uaa�Led with Ikaaaill&n"ngs and green spaces that
combine wiaan the Ilower Uylnnplics, the Cascades, and marine vistas to create as dranrnaa�dc backdrop for an
a aa.aaraanwa.ilvaa and mernorable Ifil ace.
The downtown waterfront is «alrn a a�ttraad;tioirn that a:a�i`fers a u.ullaualracell, eduar.a�a:6or4, and sociaall opportunities that
ranilrnkraard e the City"sw Inaatuaraall uaadwtuiing,, The Wateirwalk provides Iradadnplle as Ilpedaawtnanrn liaaatlh aalloirlg the shore of
Porn 'll-ow in send Bay, tying tife ity's awlhorawllilne together fllrrarrn the Gyrnrniaic Divacovery'll-raailll to Fort Worde n
State F"aarlk and INorth iihdaaad;lh. The wwraalllk coininectsr the wwwatdarflydarnt vaWh as Ilaarger Inetwvdalrlk of traaii s that Ildeaad to
salrlrwualnd4i drr¢Irdits and rdHe lal nnei htnoi innnds, n � dn�also Ar'u?s an r�drwvdwyw'aarrof pagr6ns and
open spaces, lincluadiing Irnaalny aalnviiraalnlrnnaann�talllly seinsA:Gve areas that IfalroOdnw algnnirficann�t willldlllife Ihabitat,
a great piace to ilve
01falfanrlr'tualrnli lle s foir sradallaallrJirig, Irecir aaa'tionn, quiet, and ""nawlllranadda c"arch all dose at haannd, as aalrss faadflIIrties and events
that darniNdwlh the lbody, Innlind, and nalfalilrlit.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 1 I VISION & FOUNDATION
PLANNING PROCESS
Rllf°ZOSIlllf lull iiii QIIp a°
The 2014 Plan updated a 15-year-old 1999 Plan and was, therefore, an extensive revision. The
2014 Plan endeavored to integrate information about the City's extensive trails system with
parks and other aspects of recreation. The 2014 Plan is superseded by the 2020 PROS Plan. The
2024 update only has a few updates but will be ready for the 2025 Comprehensive update for
the City.
Members of the Parks, Recreation, and Trees Advisory Board (PRTAB) reviewed the 2020 Plan
during their regular monthly meetings and recommended edits and updates to the Plan.
To further support the City's 2020 PROS Plan Update, the City engaged a consultant team.
With added consultant resources, the City Parks, Recreation, and Community Services
Department and PRTAB conducted an extensive public engagement process, evaluated
demand and needs, identified facility and program improvements, and developed the PROS
Plan Update. The overall phases included the following.
Exhibit 9. PROS Plan Update Schedule
Till! i ilia ilia �Illlh°� I IIII� o (1)1�lt°IIIII � it IIIIf Ians
This PROS Plan builds on a number of past programs, plans, ordinances, and studies, and
integrates interrelated concepts. The following provides a brief summary of each relevant
initiative or plan.
The overall context of this PROS Plan is directed by the 2016 Comprehensive Plan. The Port
Townsend Comprehensive Plan recognizes the community vision and provides goals and
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 1 I VISION & FOUNDATION
policies for parks, recreation, open space, and trails. The Land Use Map is intended to guide
both public and private actions with regard to future land use.
Planning specific to parks and open space should:
Maintain or improve the character and livability of established neighborhoods;
Protect natural resource lands and environmentally sensitive areas;
Create desirable and distinctive neighborhoods based on their cultural and natural
characteristics; and,
Provide for a comprehensive and interconnected system of parks, open spaces and trails.
The Comprehensive Plan sets a Level of Service (LOS) standard for parks as discussed further in
Chapter 5.
This subarea plan addresses the gateway to Port Townsend. Public and private parks and open
space assets in or abutting the subarea include:
Port Townsend Parkland Assets: City Entrance Park, Bishop Park, Bishop Play Park
The Business Park includes a private park with public access. The park is wooded with a
small pond.
The Forest Corridor is a natural area along Sims Way. It has large evergreen tree stands and
a thick understory.
Howard's End is a wetland preserve located at the south end of Rainier Street. It has trail
connections and natural areas for passive recreation.
Some recommendations relevant to the parks and open space system in Port Townsend
include:
Forest Buffer: Continue to preserve the Forest Buffer along a portion of Upper Sims Way to
preserve the "carved out of the wilderness" character and a conifer backdrop. This forested
buffer is an appropriate aesthetic and urban design element for the subarea and as a sense -
of -arrival into the City.
Sidewalks And Trails: Continue to expand existing sidewalk and trail connectivity as the
Upper Sims Way area develops. Continue to develop a safe and well-defined bike route
throughout the gateway corridor. The subarea includes several trails that traverse and
terminate in the subarea. There are opportunities to provide additional connections and
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS -_>
CH. 1 I VISION & FOUNDATION
linkages to ensure a connected trail network that will facilitate recreational and commuter
travel.
Recreation and Open Space: The subarea includes multiple public parks and designated
open spaces. Many of these areas can be enhanced for additional community access and
enjoyment. There is opportunity to make Howard's End a recreational focus for the district
by enhancing park access, signage, and trail connections. The plan calls for trail extensions
through the district to complete city-wide linkages. Future district development should
embrace and tie into the Forest Blocks.
A particular catalyst project involves Bishop Park and a concept to extend the park south of SR
20 with a means for crossing Sims Way: "Bishop Park abuts the subarea and serves as a
significant community park. This park should grow in size and extend into the city -owned
property south of Sims Way. The 0.94-acre property is heavily wooded and it rests within a
ravine. The City should designate this property for park use and create an improvement plan.
Park development should include a means for pedestrians and bicyclists to cross Sims Way.
Overall, the property should retain much of its natural vegetation and topographic features."
The concept of pedestrian and bicycle crossing under Sims Way is also part of the
Nonmotorized Transportation Plan, described in further detail in Chapter 6.
The Shoreline Master Program (SMP) was started in Port Townsend in 1974. An extensive
update, initiated in 2001 and completed in 2007, was prepared to carry out the responsibilities
imposed on Port Townsend by the Washington State Shoreline Management Act (RCW 90.58);
to promote uses and development of the Port Townsend shoreline consistent with the Port
Townsend Comprehensive Plan while protecting and restoring environmental resources; and to
promote public health, safety and general welfare by providing a guide and regulation for the
future development of the shoreline resources of Port Townsend. Policies contained in the
1990 Urban Waterfront Plan (a sub -area land use and urban design plan focusing on the
downtown waterfront) were incorporated into the SMP. The SMP Plan was last updated in 2018
(Ordinance 3198) and is currently undergoing a periodic review which is scheduled for adoption
in June 2021.
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The 1998 Non -Motorized Transportation Plan was updated in 2011 and 2014 and an update is
in progress at this writing. The Non -Motorized Transportation Plan addresses transportation for
pedestrians and bicyclists through development of trails and other facilities. The main goal of
the planning process is to integrate bicycle and pedestrian transportation into the City's
circulation patterns. The Active Transportation Advisory Board has overseen the development
of over 30 miles of trails in Port Townsend; many of those are through parks, adjacent to parks,
or connecting parks and neighborhoods.
The City's 1987 Comprehensive Storm Water Drainage Plan for Port Townsend established the
City's municipal stormwater utility. Plan deficiencies were noted when preparing the Growth
Management Plan in the early 1990s, which resulted in initiating a new 1996 Comprehensive
Plan and a 1999 Stormwater Management Plan draft. Notable in the draft plan was the idea of
a "natural drainage systems" approach, which included the mapping of "Critical Drainage
Corridors". The draft 1999 plan was never adopted; however, the natural drainage systems
approach was adopted through the 1996 Comprehensive Plan with policies and goals in both
the Land Use and Utility Elements. The Critical Drainage Corridors were protected through
regulatory language in the City's Critical Area Ordinance (CAO) (Port Townsend Stormwater
Management Plan, 2019).
The mission and vision of the 2019 update to the City's 1987 SMP are: "A fully functional,
achievable, and sustainable stormwater system that is integrated into the landscape, supports
envisioned growth, protects residents, and nurtures the environment." (Ordinance 3219) The
Stormwater Plan notes that increased urban development can alter existing stormwater
drainage patterns which can lead to new drainage problems in areas that previously were
unaffected and to increased water quality issues. The retention of open spaces including City
park lands has a moderating effect on the quantity and quality of stormwater run-off. Kah Tai
Lagoon Nature Park and Bishop Park are essential elements of the City's stormwater system
while the Golf Park and 351" Street Park also play a considerable role in stormwater
management. However, all designated open space tends to reduce drainage impacts.
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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 1999 Parks, Recreation & Open Space Functional Plan identified the
importance of additional open space designation and park development in commercial zones,
especially along this corridor.
The Quimper Wildlife Corridor Management (QWC) Plan identifies a series of wetlands and
forested open space along a 3.5 mile corridor in the northwest area of the city. Spearheaded by
the Jefferson Land Trust, the intent of the Plan is to preserve an undeveloped wildlife corridor
of native vegetation connecting important wildlife habitat areas between Fort Worden and the
Middlepoint Land Conservancy.
The QWC Plan includes stewardship recommendations and information on public trails, signage
and interpretive/education opportunities. City Council adopted the QWC Management Plan by
Ordinance 2976 in May 2008 and sponsored the successful applications for two Interagency
Committee for Outdoor Recreation (IAC) grants (now Washington Recreation & Conservation
Office [RCO]) for the Corridor.
A number of plans and studies have been completed relating to Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park.
The 1986, 1991 and 1999 PROS Plans contain references to a "master plan" for the park.
However, this reference appears to be to a collection of documents rather than to a singular,
stand-alone plan. Many of these past documents were developed with the assistance of grant
funding. A 1980-81 Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) acquisition grant allowed
purchase of private parcels at Kah Tai to create a nature park, and a 1983 IAC grant partially
funded park development.
The 1983 grant was to be funded in two phases focused on the southern uplands resulting from
dredge spoils emplacement. Seattle architectural firm Bassetti/Norton/Metter/Rekevics, Seattle
landscape architectural firm MacLeod Reckord, and landscape architect Jestena Boughton
developed plans for site development, landscape furniture, and park construction
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specifications. In 1985, City Council approved the Shoreline Substantial Development Permit
Application request to dig the small lagoon as a part of park development. At the request of the
Jefferson/Port Townsend Shoreline Management Advisory Commission, Ornithologist Dr.
Dennis Paulson reviewed the proposed development plan. He found the plan to be favorable
and it was approved by the Washington Department of Ecology. Permitted plans finalized by
the Army Corps of Engineers stated the designated purpose as: "Restore Wildlife Habitat."
Funding for the second phase did not materialize and completion of the recommended
landscape design was inhibited by ownership disputes resolved in 2013. A future phase of the
park includes a wetland in the southeast corner of the park. Community volunteers continue to
help care for the park and implement landscaping as envisioned by these early efforts.
The Port Townsend Arts Commission prepared a Public Art Plan adopted by the City Council in
2019. The plan serves as a guide to sites for their readiness and appropriateness to site art.
Each site evaluated was rated based on:
Readiness of location based on current zoning and development.
Viability and appropriateness for public art.
Each site was then rated either as a site ready within the short-term or long-term or as not
recommended. Sites can be re -visited regularly. Of 70 survey sites, the Public Art Plan identifies
26 that are suitable in the short term. Beyond the site suitability each piece of art will come
with its own set of requirements around infrastructure, safety, maintenance and security. The
sites in the categories were not rank ordered in the plan. Below is a list of the sites that
immediately overlap with the City's park inventory:
City Entrance
Triangle Park III at Kearney/Sims Way
itOT IIIII IIIIIII: ���
Chetzemoka Park
Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park
Larry Scott Memorial Trail and Port Wetlands
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11 Mountain View Commons
Port Townsend Golf Park
Tyler Street Plaza
ell rson County Non -Motor hred 7 rarmpor� eoation Plan Larry Scot,,t
Though the majority of the County Non -Motorized Transportation Plan addresses facilities
beyond the city limits, one key facility, the Larry Scott Memorial Trail, will ultimately connect
Port Townsend with the Olympic Discovery Trail providing non -motorized access from Port
Townsend to the Pacific Ocean through Sequim and Port Angeles.
Located on the former Seattle & North Coast Railroad grade, the Trail realizes a plan envisioned
by community member Larry Scott, who first sought funding for a community trail. Port
Townsend owns and manages 7.07 acres at the trailhead in the Boat Haven. Jefferson County
owns and manages the 7.3-mile non -motorized, multi -use Larry Scott Memorial Trail from Port
Townsend Boat Haven to Milo Curry Road in the Four Corners Area of Discovery Bay. The City's
Non -Motorized Transportation Plan and this Plan recognize the linear park as an important
transportation and recreation link to Jefferson County.
Ji,,,, CoUnl"y 17 dr?k;,,, Recreation, arW Open,,Space,?, Plan
Last updated in 2015, the Jefferson County Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan
provides goals and objectives, inventory and demand and need, recommendations, and capital
programming for the Jefferson County parks and recreation system. It applies to facilities inside
the city limits such as North Beach County Park, Port Townsend Community Center, Memorial
Field, County Courthouse Park, Fairgrounds, and the Larry Scott Trail. The Jefferson County
PROS Plan actions and capital program identify improvements at these parks that help serve
Port Townsend residents and visitors. In turn, this Port Townsend PROS Plan integrates the
County facilities as well as State and School District facilities, in the consideration of park
distribution and access and available recreation facilities.
The Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) is a collaboration of Jefferson Healthcare,
Jefferson County Public Health, Discovery Behavioral Healthcare, the City of Port Townsend and
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Jefferson County. Chronic disease accounts for the top four causes of death and the top three
causes of hospitalization in Jefferson County. Active living contributes to decreasing the risks of
chronic diseases and the related health outcomes. Many social and environmental factors
influence the exercise choices individuals make, including the built environment, knowledge,
skills, social support, policies, cost, access, and safety. One of the four CHIP goals - that
Jefferson County residents get the appropriate levels of physical activity - is especially relevant
to this PROS Plan. Barriers to access of recreational and exercise opportunities and assets
prevent citizens from benefiting from time spent outside in natural surroundings or in
organized recreational activities. The CHIP collaboration seeks to identify and mitigate those
barriers.
The Climate Change Preparedness Plan for the North Olympic Peninsula (S. Petersen et al.,
September 2015) provides a Vulnerability Assessment and Adaptation Plan to adjust to actual or
expected climate and its effects. Climate changes are anticipated to affect temperature averages
and extremes, precipitation averages and extremes, sea level rise, and coastal flood elevations. This
could affect all of Port Townsend's parklands with more impact to properties that lie along the
waterfront. Adaptation strategies relevant to parkland includes:
Enhance efforts to encourage breeding and planting of drought tolerant, resilient plant
species
Enhance efforts to incentivize use of native plants landscaping
Promote and incentivize smart irrigation technologies
Enhance water storage and groundwater recharge
Encourage soft defenses for shoreline infrastructure
Improve on -site stormwater management practices
The Chetzemoka (cicmahan) Interpretative Trail is Port Townsend's most recent trail addition.
The Trail is the result of a plan envisioned by the Port Townsend Native Connections Action
Group of the Quimper Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. The plan was endorsed and assisted by
the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe, the Jefferson County Historical Society and the City of Port
Townsend. The Trail was named for the last S'Klallam chief and dedicated on June 29, 2019. As
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a part of the dedication, a totem pole was installed at the Northwest Maritime Center as a gift
from the S'Klallam people to the City. See more information under Public Art in Appendix C.
The Trail utilizes existing facilities including City sidewalks and trails to connect many points of
tribal, geographic and historic interest in Port Townsend. The Trail comprises 18 sites that
include City parks (Chetzemoka, Kah Tai or gatay), Sentinel Rock and the Kah Tai Prairie (the last
remaining native prairie here) at the Golf Park; County parks at North Beach and at Memorial
Field (the site of the last native village in the City, burned by European settlers in 1871); and
Point Wilson in Fort Worden State Park.
The intent of the Trail is to educate the public about the S'Klallam people who were well -
established here since the 1400s, and their relationship with the European settlers who arrived
in Port Townsend in the mid-19th century.
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INTRODUCTION
This chapter includes Parks and Recreation goals and policies.
Goals are aims or objectives, the desired outcome of an effort or design.
Policies are the courser principles of action proposed to achieve goals.
The following Goals and Policies integrate Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan goals and
policies that are most relevant to this Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Functional Plan (PROS
Plan).
Overall, the goals and policies from the Comprehensive Plan are well developed and provide
adequate guidance for parks and recreation planning.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - LAND USE ELEMENT
Goal 3: Develop a comprehensive open space and trails plan and implementation program that
protects the natural environment and significant cultural resources, provides passive recreation
opportunities, is integrated with the nonmotorized 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.
Policy 3.1: Acquire and develop public open space and trails within the financial capabilities and
level of service standards of the Capital Facilities Element.
Policy 3.2: Develop and implement nonregulatory and regulatory means for acquiring and
developing the open space and trails network.
CH. 2 1 GOALS & POLICIES
3.2.1 During development review, encourage applicants to dedicate land for future open
space and trails.
3.2.2 Amend the zoning and subdivision codes to provide incentives for open space
including, but not limited to, clustered developments and planned unit developments
(PUDs).
3.2.3 Acquire land for open spaces and trails through municipal or state programs, such
as stormwater management and wildlife/wetland protection.
3.2.4 Apply for grants from public agencies and private foundations to acquire land for
open spaces and trails.
3.2.5 Work with nonprofit groups, such as the Jefferson Land Trust, to obtain
conservation easements and create incentives for open space and trails system
development.
3.2.6 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).
3.2.7 Explore other techniques for acquisition and development of the open space and
trails network (e.g., RCO funding: utility bill donations, a community or regional bond
issue, etc.).
Policy 3.3: 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.
Policy 3.4: 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;
c. 50th Street Wetlands and Drainage Corridor; and
d. Hastings/25th Street Wetlands and Drainage Corridor.
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Policy 3.5: Where possible, accommodate multiple functions within the open space and trails
system, including stormwater management, viewpoints, protection of cultural resources,
wildlife habitat, and passive recreation.
Policy 3.6: Coordinate with Jefferson County to identify and designate open space corridors and
trails within and between urban growth areas, as required under the GMA.
3.6.1 Integrate the open space and trails network with the Olympic Discovery Trail.
3.6.2 Support the expansion of a Quimper Peninsula wildlife and open space corridor
consistent with the Quimper Wildlife Corridor Management Plan.
Policy 3.7: 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.
Policy 3.8: Preserve and enhance shoreline access areas consistent with the City's Shoreline
Master Program.
Policy 3.9: 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.
Policy 3.10: Design trails to be accessible to people with disabilities as much as the natural
characteristics (e.g., topography) of the region will allow.
Policy 3.11: Develop a coordinated sign program that provides a user friendly guide to the
location of trails.
Policy 3.12: Consider trail linkages in the development of new government facilities, including
new parks and open spaces.
Policy 3.13: Prohibit the use of off -road vehicles on public trails designated in the Non -
Motorized Transportation Plan.
Policy 3.14: Develop and adopt standards regarding trail uses that minimize conflicts between
different types of trail users (e.g., pedestrians, bicyclists, and equestrians).
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Policy 3.15: Provide adequate funding for open space and trails network operation and
maintenance.
Parks arid
Recreation 1 aiiiii III hill° iiiiienc F )ogr rn
Goal 4: Develop park and recreation facilities, programs and opportunities that are responsive
to the needs and interests of Port Townsend residents.
Policy 4.1: Continue to address the community's needs for active and passive recreation
opportunities through implementation of the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Functional
Plan.
4.1.1 Provide recreation programs that are comprehensive, enriching, and affordable for
all citizens.
4.1.2 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 park.
4.1.3 Provide a wide range of passive recreation opportunities within the parks system
(e.g., nature walks, picnic areas, bird -watching, observation areas).
Policy 4.2: Acquire and develop public park and recreational lands to serve the future
population of the City.
Policy 4.3: Pursue a variety of options for park and recreation facility acquisition and
development.
4.3.1 During development review, encourage developers to dedicate land for future
park and recreation facilities.
4.3.2 Apply for grants from public agencies and private foundations to acquire land and
develop the City's park and recreation facilities.
4.3.3 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).
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4.3.4 Provide incentives that encourage developers in commercial districts to provide
pocket parks, plazas, courtyards, arcades, atriums, pedestrian corridors, and through
block corridors.
Policy 4.4: 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.
4.4.1 Preserve natural features which are conducive to park and recreation functions.
4.4.2 Incorporate habitat considerations in the design and development of new park and
recreation facilities.
4.4.3 Encourage the use of native plants which attract wildlife.
4.4.4 Incorporate significant cultural resources in the design and development of new
park and recreation facilities and provide interpretive opportunities where appropriate.
Policy 4.5: Design and manage park and recreation facilities to maximize environmental
protection and provide interpretive opportunities for ecological systems and features, and
cultural resources.
4.5.1: Extend maximum environmental protection in perpetuity for the exclusive open
space, wildlife habitat, and passive outdoor recreation functions within Kah Tai Lagoon
Nature Park. Within those areas depicted on the 6(f) Boundary Map (RCO Project # 81-
043, Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) 53-00486, executed by the City on July
3, 2013 and the State Recreation and Conservation Office on June 19, 2013), Kah Tai
Lagoon Nature Park shall be designed and managed in accordance with the legal
obligations assumed under the 1981 Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund
Acquisition Grant, and any grant amendments. As stated on the 6(f) Boundary Map: "All
land within the boundary of the park is dedicated in perpetuity to public outdoor
recreation." The contract obligations include the following (Project # 81-043A,
Amendment Number 2):
"The purpose of the grant was to expand the City's ownership and control around the
lagoon and develop a municipal passive use park.
The lagoon is a natural area associated with marsh, wetlands, and grasslands and
provides nesting, feeding, and breeding habitat for birds, ducks and other wildlife. The
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area should be set aside for preservation of natural resources and open space to serve
wildlife habitat and compatible passive recreation uses."
The 6(f) Boundary Map, depicting the property subject to the LWCF protections, the
project contract, and other key documents, are recorded at Jefferson County Auditor
File No. 585012 (July 18, 2014).
Policy 4.6: Design park and recreation facilities to accommodate a citizenry diverse in age,
interests, income levels, and abilities.
Policy 4.7: Where adverse impacts could occur, screen and buffer park and recreation facilities
to protect adjacent or nearby private properties.
Policy 4.8: Consider acquiring inholdings and adjacent parcels that would increase the long-
term integrity and viability of the City's park and recreational lands.
Policy 4.9: Broaden the use of school buildings and grounds as places for public use after school
and on evenings.
4.9.1 Increase cooperative management with the Port Townsend School District through
joint use agreements.
4.9.2 Joint use agreements should seek to renovate, schedule, and manage facilities for
greater public use and enjoyment.
Policy 4.10: Support, encourage, and provide technical assistance to neighborhood associations
seeking to acquire or develop property for neighborhood parks, recreation, and open space.
Policy 4.11: Work with Jefferson County to identify future park and recreational facility needs
within Port Townsend and facilities within Jefferson County that will serve Port Townsend
residents.
Policy 4.12: 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).
Policy 4.13: Set City-wide standards for park and recreational facility maintenance, and the unit
costs to achieve those standards.
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Parks and m"finIIIII's IIImIIIIIon aIIII If" Opemtloulis
Goal 5: Provide the support and leadership to respond effectively to the community's evolving
priorities and needs. Respond and be accessible to the community by creating new policies,
procedures and technologies to meet the diverse current and future needs.
Policy 5.1: Deliver measurable economic benefit to the community by providing or supporting
programs, special events, and facilities.
Policy 5.2: Incorporate sustainable standards and best management practices into planning and
design of new parks and rehabilitation of existing facilities.
Policy 5.3: Keep clean and well -maintained parks and facilities, retaining a high level of
appearance of landscaped sites.
Policy 5A Identify, preserve and interpret Port Townsend's heritage, traditions, historic,
environmental, and cultural features.
Policy 5.5: Master Plan major parks and facilities through a public input process to modernize
and update sites.
Policy 5.6: Develop staff growth through educational classes, certification and training.
P IIII+s &IidIIIIRecfc'f'f III on Bt,idget &Iid N finding
Goal 6: Strive to adequately fund ongoing parks and recreation programming and maintenance
through proactive well -planned budgeting practices, the pursuit of partnerships and the
securing of grants.
Policy 6.1: Prepare and anticipate for future staffing needs that may arise due to budget and
other financial circumstances.
Policy 6.2: Establish an ongoing six -year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for parks and
recreation facilities.
Policy 6.3: Pursue local, regional, state and federal grant sources for park maintenance and
development.
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CH. 2 1 GOALS & POLICIES
Policy 6.4: Develop new and additional partnership/volunteer stewardship programs utilizing
local service clubs and organizations.
Policy 6.5: Investigate establishing a set of impact and/or mitigation fees that fairly contribute
to the construction and upgrading of parks.
°GfIher IIIII' IIIII iiiiic� iiiii e s
Land Use Element: Air Quality Management, Climate Mitigation & Adaptation
Policy 8.8.1: Consider projected climate change impacts and adaptation strategies when
investing in public projects and updating disaster preparedness plans, land use plans, and
regulations.
Land Use Element: Residential Lands
Policy 9.8: As funding becomes available, develop neighborhood parks in higher density
locations where the need is greatest.
Land Use Element: Public Facilities & Utilities
Policy 14.6: Locate public facilities that are intended to serve the entire community in areas
conveniently accessible to City residents (e.g., community parks, schools, government offices).
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CAPITAL FACILITIES
ELEMENT
The Comprehensive Plan Capital Facilities Element provides a level of service for Parks in two
parts:
7.6 acres/1,000 population
Local service standards for equitable access, distribution, and function as outlined in the
City of Port Townsend Parks, Recreation and Open Space Functional Plan
Chapter 5 Demand & Need evaluates the level of service retaining the Comprehensive Plan
level of service while identifying an alternative standard that can be phased in as a target or
goa I.
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INTRODUCTION
This Chapter includes a history and overview of Port Townsend's recreation opportunities. It
provides an inventory of City parks and trails, a summary of other agencies' facilities, and a
review of recreation programs offered by the City, County, and other jurisdictions and
organizations.
HISTORY
This section provides an overview of the City's recreation programs, including relevant history,
and the City's park and open space inventory. Also included is a brief overview of public
facilities owned and operated by other jurisdictions.
F)art I o n s n
There have been many attempts in Port Townsend's recent history to create and maintain
active recreation opportunities 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 recreation program including the Mountain
View Swimming Pool until 1994, when the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners decided to
discontinue operation of the swimming pool and other recreation programs.
CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
The City of Port Townsend opted to provide its own recreation program in 1995 to address
diverse community needs. In response to the number one priority in the 1991 City Park Plan
community survey, a dedicated effort provided opportunities for youth and included after -
school and summer enrichment camp programs. Recreation and pool operations were
combined into a single division of the Public Works Department under the direction of the
Public Works Director.
Because of the previous involvement of other jurisdictions, recreational facilities in the City are
in large part owned by either Jefferson County or the Port Townsend School District.
Recreational programs were therefore offered in partnerships negotiated between the City and
the facility owners.
The recreation and pool programs were supported through a collaborative effort by the Port
Townsend School District, community organizations, area businesses, grants, and fundraisers as
well as the City budget. Many businesses contributed to the effort. The recreation program
received the 1997 Association of Washington Cities Municipal Achievement Award.
Recreatiori History,,,, 21st Century
Much has changed since the late 1990s due to fiscal realities associated with public funding and
shifting priorities. The City funded a professional evaluation of the Mountain View Pool in 2001
to consider possible pool expansion
In 2003, the City encumbered general obligation bonds (Ordinance 2844) intended in part to
upgrade and repair the pool but the inability to secure a long-term lease from the School
District made amortization of 20-year bonds untenable. The School District considered briefly
the idea of surplusing the property in 2008 and decided to consolidate elementary students
onto one campus at Grant Street (now Salish Coast Elementary) in 2009, at which time the City
began to manage the whole Mountain View campus, but without a long-term lease that would
be necessary for grant or loan acquisition for major repairs or renovations. In 2009, the City
considered what life cycle repairs were necessary and what upgrades were recommended for
continued use. The City and County collaborated to fund nearly $200,000 in critically needed
pool repairs and improvements in early 2013. In 2015, City voters overwhelmingly supported a
$3.6M bond measure to upgrade Mountain View Commons after the School District and the
City signed a long-term lease agreement. At this writing, efforts to improve access for aquatic
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CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
recreation, exercise and rehabilitation continue, with proposed partnerships under
consideration between the City, County, School District, the YMCA and Jefferson Healthcare.
file r eatwion: Cuu r eri Ope tryh,� ,)n
The City continues to serve as a provider of indoor aquatic recreation services (e.g., Mountain
View Pool). The City coordinates its parks and recreation efforts with Jefferson County and
other entities. Through these combined efforts, a range of programs are offered encouraging
life-long development of skills and interests for all age groups. The future of recreation
programs is, however, threatened by diminishing resources as discussed further in Chapter 7.
Mountain View Pool: The City continues to staff, support and maintain the only public pool in
Jefferson County. The pool continues to be used extensively by schools for swimming lessons
for all age groups; middle and high school competitive swim teams; Redfins youth swim club
(USA Swimming); aquatic fitness/wellness classes and aqua therapy. It also provides water
babies classes, lap swimming and open recreational swimming. Pool use has more than doubled
in the last six years.
Port Townsend Golf Course: After a robust community conversation in 2023, the City contracted operations of
the Golf Course to a local nonprofit with the requirement to operate the 9 hole park and also expand use for
the general community. From mini golf, disc golf, foot golf, first Sundays in the Park, this 58.9 acre piece of land
will be an asset for the whole community, this will now be called the Port Townsend Golf Park. Previously, the
City's 9-hole, 58.9-acre golf course had been leased by the City to a private operator since 1987. The previous
lease was transferred to a new vendor in 2013 by Council Resolution 13-033. The City commissioned a study in
2019 which indicated that there is a need for considerable investment in improvements and modernization of
the golf park (described in further detail under Chapter 6 Park & Recreation System Plan). The future of the
facility is under review as declining revenues render upkeep and improvements problematic to fund. The
current lease expired in 2023, and the City Council determined to lease it to the newly formed nonprofit to
operate.
The Parks, Recreation and Tree and Trails Advisory Board (PRTTAB) advises the City Council on
issues related to the City's parks, open spaces, trees, trails and recreational opportunities. The
Advisory Board provides review, advice, and recommendations on the implementation of the
PROS Plan and other topics that are important to maintaining and expanding the City's
commitment to conservation and legislation regarding the City's parks and trees.
The PRTAB has oversight to City trees and helping to maintain Port Townsend's Tree City USA
status as well as evaluating nominations for the City's most outstanding specimen trees to the
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS :%;.`_
CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
protective Landmark Tree status. Management of City trees is split between the Parks
Department (trees in parks and along trails) and Public Works Department (street trees).
FACILITIES
IPA k's
Port Townsend's first Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Plan was written in 1975 and
updates occurred in 1980, 1986, 1991, 1996 (in concert with the Comprehensive Plan), 1999
2014, 2020 and 2024. Although National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA) information
and studies are a basis to define parks and recreational assets, no community's resources fit
neatly into a single framework.
Port Townsend fits perhaps even less well than most communities into a common classification
scheme, as it is in the unique situation of having the 433.6 acres of Fort Worden State Park
within the City limits. The City also hosts Jefferson County's physical footprint of North Beach
County Park, the County Courthouse Park, the Port Townsend Community/Recreation Center
and the only lighted stadium in the County, Memorial Field. As well, Port of Port Townsend
facilities along the waterfront and the current Little League fields at the Jefferson County
Fairgrounds are within the City footprint. As mentioned above, none of these facilities are
owned by the City. Although the City contains a wealth of open space and recreational facilities,
it does not maintain or control these assets. It is not cost effective or good management of
limited resources to provide redundancy for these existing assets but it is prudent to consider
their future and plan for the possibility of loss and prioritize the necessity of replacement for
those assets deemed critical.
City parks can range from street end retreats to extensive open spaces that serve much larger
areas. Recent updates of NRPA and other established standards are less likely to base park
designation on size and more logically on park function. The Washington State Recreation and
Conservation Office (RCO) includes a level of service (LOS) exercise in its most recent iteration
of park grant planning documents (Manual 2, Planning Policies and Guidelines, April 2019) that
recommends using a community's own guidelines for LOS. Additionally, RCO evaluates
recreational assets by relative support for active recreation, by population distance from parks
and trails within neighborhoods, communities and regions, and by accessibility with various
modes of transport, most particularly nonmotorized transport and public modes of transport.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS :%'
CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
This PROS Plan establishes an inventory of parks based on a range of types of park facilities
currently existing in the City of Port Townsend: Community, Neighborhood, Downtown,
Garden, and Special Use. 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. Exhibit 10 provides summary definitions. Exhibit 11 maps inventoried parks. A list
of the parks, classifications, and acres are included in Exhibit 12.
The LOS analysis in Chapter 5 factors in these park types and identifies three key level of service
indicators: function, accessibility, and service area. The key features for each park type are
further elaborated in Chapter 6.
All City parks and other City assets are described in greater detail in Appendix A.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS : '
CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
Exhibit 10. Park Classification Summary Definitions
Primary Classes
Community Park Community Parks are larger parks providing a variety of major recreation facilities, open space,
and/or recreation programming, serve multiple neighborhoods and are a generally treated as a
destination for visitors. Community Parks often reflect a shared community identity and offer
flexibility across recreation and programming types throughout the year. Their size and range of
offerings attract visitors and neighbors who may travel from further distances and stay longer
periods of time, requiring more allowance and provisions for parking, seating, restrooms and family
support amenities. Sub -classes identify if the park is more Active or Nature focused.
Neighborhood Park Neighborhood Parks are smaller than Community Parks and intended for frequent and convenient
access to basic recreation activities and opportunities. These parks best serve nearby residents and
visitors in less formal or organized recreation and leisure. Neighborhood Parks provide open space
values. They are less suited for longer stays, heavily programmed activities, or larger rental or
permit -required spaces. These parks prioritize open space over parking and encourage visitation
through pedestrian and bike networks. Sub -classes identify if the park is more Active or Nature
focused.
Downtown Park
Downtown Parks are located in the downtown/uptown urban core and provide plazas and urban
community gathering and special event spaces, waterfront or shoreline access, art and cultural
facilities, or picnic or other passive enjoyment facilities. In some instances, Downtown Parks serve
the needs met by neighborhood parks for residents living in the urban core. These parks may be
referenced in other Comprehensive and Subarea Plans as Urban Pocket Parks, the 2014
Classification.
Garden Park
Garden parks include medians, gateways, rights of way, and small greenspaces, with ornamental
plantings, trees and sometimes limited amenities such as a bench or interpretive signage. They are
small in size and may only provide a visual buffer or beautification enhancement to the urban or
other environment that surrounds them.
Special Use Park
Special Use Parks are designed for specialized or single -purpose recreation activities. These purposes
may include golf parks, marinas, sport complexes, community and aquatic centers, historical areas,
nature centers, conservatories, amphitheaters, or other purposes. These parks typically offer a
narrower range of recreation uses or amenities. This classification can be combined with others.
Sub -Classes
Nature
This sub -classification identifies parks where the primary purposes include nature and wildlife habitat
conservation, passive recreation such as trails and viewpoints, and educational and cultural
appreciation elements. Intensive areas of development are limited based on the environmental
characteristics of the park.
Active
This sub -classification identifies parks that are designed for frequent and convenient access to
recreation activities and opportunities such as family activities (picnic, gathering), active recreation
(play, sports, other), and passive recreation (trails, open lawn/turf, informal activity). These parks
would also contribute open space and environmental values.
Soui,ce: Oily of Izorl I ow7,,end, i#f i I , 20119
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS "
CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
Exhibit 11. City, County, and State Parks
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March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS '/"',,'
CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
Exhibit 12. Parks Inventory with Classification and Park Size in Acres
Chetzemoka Park (Park, Dog Park, Golden Age
Community Park
Community Park -Active
7.3
Club)
Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park
Community Park
Community Park -Nature
75.9
35th Street Park
Neighborhood Park
Community Park-Active/Nature
14.0
12th & Hancock
Neighborhood Park
Neighborhood Park -Active
1.0
Baker View Park
Neighborhood Park
Neighborhood Park -Active
0.2
Bishop Park
Neighborhood Park
Neighborhood Park -Nature
3.6
Bishop Play Park
Neighborhood Park
Neighborhood Park -Active
0.6
Bobby McGarraugh Park
Neighborhood Park
Neighborhood Park -Active
2.0
Sather Park Field (East)
Neighborhood Park
Neighborhood Park -Active
1.4
Sather Park Forest (West)
Neighborhood Park
Neighborhood Park -Nature
5.3
Adams Street Park
Urban Pocket Park
Downtown Park
0.1
Bell Tower
Urban Pocket Park
Downtown Park
0.1
Haller Fountain /Terrace Steps
Urban Pocket Park
Downtown Park
0.4
Pope Marine Park / Jackson Tidal Park
Urban Pocket Park
Downtown Park
1.3
Rotary Park
Urban Pocket Park
Downtown Park
0.3
Tyler Street Stairs
Urban Pocket Park
Downtown Park
0.1
City Entrance
Urban Pocket Park
Garden Park
0.6
Dahlia Park (Triangle 1)
Urban Pocket Park
Garden Park
0.1
Speakers Corner at Kearney/Sims Way
Urban Pocket Park
Garden Park
0.2
Gateway Park (Triangle 11)
Urban Pocket Park
Garden Park
0.2
Elmira Street Viewpoint Park
Neighborhood Park
Special Use
0.5
Golf Park
Community Park
Special Use
58.9
Larry Scott Memorial Trail
Community Park
Special Use
7.1
Mountain View
Neighborhood Park
Special Use/ Neighborhood
7.6
Seamus Sims Skateboard Park
Community Park
Special Use
0.3
Grand Total
189.2
`,rail CC: City O„ I'r,i t I r,:axAtnsend, I4I Itl , 2011J.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS '1
CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
Tils
With a history of platting beginning in 1852, a number of blocks and rights of way were planned
in Port Townsend and not developed. On the undeveloped rights -of -way the City planned and
coordinated trail improvements, and volunteers established and maintained public trails that
are now maintained by the City. In addition to pedestrian trails, the multimodal regional Larry
Scott Trail begins in the City and extends into unincorporated Jefferson County.
The Chetzemoka Trail was dedicated in 2019, and is an interpretative trail traversing Port
Townsend that honors the life of Chief Chetzemoka, the important places in his life and the
S'Klallam people. The Trail is comprised of 18 sites throughout the city that divide into 3-mile,
6-mile, or 12-mile loops. Some of the interpretive site are in City parks. The trail has signage
and stops of historical significance at Chetzemoka Park, Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park, the Kah Tai
prairie at the golf park, Froggy Bottoms, as well as county facilities at North Beach and
Memorial Field, and at Fort Worden.
The City manages the trails by zones. Trail extent is summarized by zone in Exhibit 13.
Exhibit 13. Trail Inventory Feet and Miles, 2019
1
12,321
2.3
2
5,627
1.1
3
10,657
2.0
A. Larry Scott Trail Multimodal Paths
7,351
1.4
B. Other Paths
3,306
0.6
4
14,491
2.7
5
19,929
3.8
6
18,153
3.4
7
41,288
7.8
8
27,393
5.2
9 (including Fort Worden)
23,637
4.5
Tota 1
173,496
32.9
`outc(,��CityofIIc)t1Io"irrz,end,RII",K; `011a),
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS J'=
CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
Trails by zone are included in Exhibit 14.
Exhibit 14. Trails by Zone
SC2i.arce� (Jly of I)orl I OWiIrrOTiid, B4ERI , 21119
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
Facilities
The City's parks contain a variety of facilities including playgrounds, picnic shelters and
benches, paths, and special facilities such as dog parks. See Exhibit 15. Port Townsend
Recreation Facilities.
Exhibit 15. Port Townsend Recreation Facilities
Community Park
35th Street Park
14.0
X
Chetzemoka Park
7.3
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X X
X
X X
Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park
75.9
x
x
X
x
X
x
X
Neighborhood Park
12th & Hancock
1.0
Baker View Park
0.2
X
X
Bishop Park
3.6
X
X
Bishop Play Park
0.6
X
X
X
X
X
X
Bobby McGarraugh Park
2.0
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Sather Park Field (East)
1.4
X
X
Sather Park Forest (West)
5.3
X
Downtown Park
Adams Street Park
0.1
X
X
X
Bell Tower
0.1
X
X
X
X
Haller Fountain / Terrace Steps
0.4
X
X
X
X
Pope Marine Park / Jackson Tidal Park
1.3
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Rotary Park
0.3
X
X
X
Tyler Street Stairs
0.1
X
Garden Park
City Entrance
0.6
X
Dahlia Park (Triangle l)
0.1
X
Gateway Park (Triangle II)
0.2
X
X
X
Speakers Corner at Kearney/Sims Way
0.2
Special Use
Elmira Street Viewpoint Park
0.5
Golf Park
58.9
X
X
X
X
X
X
Larry Scott Memorial Trail
7.1
x
X
X
X
X
Mountain View
7.6
X
X
X
X
X
X X
Seamus Sims Skateboard Park
0.3
X
X
Grand Total
189.2
5
9
13
4
8
13
6
5 2
10
6 1 2 1
Sourccr C ilyM f'a�r9'I"MnriI,,��,r'd, I41EIth., 20L9
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
° m l l 1uIi a rks n IIIII iiii l Illll liiii llllRt iiii
Fort Worden State Park and Conference Center is a 434-acre park with a wide variety of
services and facilities for tourists and residents:
Conference Center and Lodge: Meeting rooms, food services, and 456
bedrooms/accommodations that include officers' housing, a castle, special one -room
houses and large dormitories
Camping: Two campgrounds with 80 campsites, and RV rally site for 10-22 RVs
Picnicking: Day -use and picnic areas
Trails: 5 miles ADA hiking trails, 12 miles hiking trails, 12 miles bike trails
Sports: 1 Baseball/Softball Field, 2 Tennis Courts
Water/Boating Access: 2 boat ramps, 235 feet of dock and moorage, kayak and bike rentals
Other: Alternative fitness classes, birding, 2 fire circles, interpretive activities mountain
biking, museums (Washington State Parks, 2019)
Jo,, pr s(,,�hn I°°11airks
Jefferson County provides recreation facilities in the city limits including a Community Center
with teen and senior activities, sports complex at Memorial Field, sports courts and picnicking
at the Courthouse Park, a County Fairgrounds, and a community -oriented North Beach Park.
See Exhibit 16.
Exhibit 16. Jefferson County Parks Facilities in Port Townsend
Community Center
1.9
Special Use
Play Areas
Court House Park
2.0
Neighborhood
Sports Courts, Picnicking, Tennis
Fairgrounds
34.0
Regional Special Use
Picnic Shelter, Picnicking, Play Areas,
Restrooms, Walking/Jogging, Stadium,
Camping, Off -Leash Area
Memorial Field
5.2
Regional Special Use
Ballfields, Restrooms, Stadium
North Beach Park
1.9
Community
BBQ, Picnic Shelter, Picnicking, Restrooms
Grand Total
45.0
.;rj arcs. Icffcrsori (:aa[ rdy, fiERI< 201.9�),
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
5,the wh;
There are three public school sites with indoor and outdoor recreation facilities. They are
meant for use by students. People have access to the sites after school hours. For example, the
play areas at Salish were placed in front deliberately for public use after hours intentionally to
provide a community asset. See Exhibit 17.
Exhibit 17. Schools and Recreational Facilities
Salish Coast Elementary 1 1 1
Blue Heron School 1 4 1 1
Port Townsend High School 2 1 4 1 1
�xr�ul°r::ra; I'�flP:��f�ffrrut�a�al':fl',r.h:��t?I Ifl��thlr;t,f,r�r�f;lr> Il:�,ili�t, I?I!:I�I°, �"Ci`L`7,
Across all agencies reviewed in this PROS Plan, the City focus of facilities is family activities and
special use activities whereas the State, County, and Schools focus on outdoor sports facilities.
See Exhibit 18.
Exhibit 18. Combined Facility Inventory: City, State, County, Schools
Diamond Fields
2
2
3
Rectangular Fields
1
6
Basketball Courts (outdoor)
4*
1*
Tennis Courts (outdoor)
2
1
4
Pickleball Courts (outdoor)
2*
1
1
Picnic Shelters
4
2
Playgrounds
S__
2
1
Special Use: Passive Dog Parks
2
1
Special Use: Active
3 Multiple: Conference
3
3
Golf, Skate Park, Center, Museums,
Fairgrounds, Comm
Gym
Pool, Gym Historic Sites
Ctr, Mem Field
`Jolo? `III f ciffitiofl H"Iere ill('.' II`1flool
faf:'llltJos I Ilt' C liy has 1. Irlf"'fool hask4':p'tball court
and 1 IIIIf,00r plcl d€ half court
at Mountain
"✓i(nu.,lf ffr.l",`af„'?n Couf`1'l:"y offf' s, Indoor
LY<]skcll2fall al the i:oll I f'b l"Y,xond
llch4P4 is have rlffiool,
coin'!„ r1l g`+; f"°ns
soljtce„ City of Port I o w`ns nd, leff!'I"
vfJn (4 471Jf7'ty,'r/f/o`4hijnf, lto Y StaLe Parks, R1 RI<, 207.9.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
RECREATION
As mentioned under History, the recreation programming offered by the City of Port Townsend
consists of aquatic -based programming at the City's Mountain View Pool such as swimming
lessons, fitness classes, and drop -in swimming or aquatic recreation.
In addition to the aquatic -based programming provided by the City, other major providers of
recreation programming in the Port Townsend area include Jefferson County Parks and
Recreation and Jefferson County YMCA.
Below in Exhibit 19 and Exhibit 20, the recreation programming landscape for the Port
Townsend area is shown for youth -focused programming and adult -focused programming.
Exhibit 19. Youth Recreation Programming Landscape in Port Townsend
Club Swimming
n
Swim Lessons
Drop -In Recreation
Arts & Craftsoi�oi�"
Child Careoi�oi�"
Drop -In Recreation
`40,
Family Activities
�N
Mentorship
Preschool'
Special Needs Programs'
Sports Camps
`40,
Sports Leagues Youth
`40,
Summer Day Camps
�N
Summer Overnight Camps
Youth Nutrition Programs
Aquatic Programming
' Ancillary programs provided either through partnership or contract
Srri.ai°ce: (,!iy of )cn i Ir,;,rnErisend, 2019;.1efferson ts>ui)ly, 201 Bl!:�Rl<, 2019
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
Exhibit 20. Adult Recreation Programming Landscape in Port Townsend
Aquatic Programming
1 Ancillary programs provided either through partnership or contract
z Senior recreation options
`ouic , ( it:yai Poll Iawiirxr,nd, )0'19; ioffoi'son (ounty, )019; I;I'Iltb', ; 0'19.
Looking at the roles each provider plays in recreation programming in the area, beyond the
aquatic programming provided by the City, the County mostly provides community center
recreation and sports leagues while the YMCA provides cultural programming, childcare,
summer camps, and family activities.
MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONS
The City maintains and operates 25 of its 26 sites excluding the golf park, which is managed
separately in an agreement with the operator. Maintenance and operations staff include 12.8
full time equivalents (FTEs), most of which serve the pool. See Exhibit 21.
Exhibit 21. Maintenance and Operations — Full Time and Seasonal Positions and Full -Time Equivalents
Facilities and Parks Manager 1 FTE
Parks(FTE 3.0)
Maintenance Worker Parks
Maintenance Worker Parks
`>r,La CC. I'Mt; IC)Wnsend I4,u tf,ct)014
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 3 1 FACILITIES & PROGRAMS INVENTORY
Port Townsend's maintenance and operations expenditure per capita is about $109 with the
pool and $50 without the pool.
The City's 2019 budget identified unmet and unfunded needs for maintenance and operations
staff including:
1 FTE for parks maintenance
An annual amount for a trail maintenance crew
The City's 2019 budget also identified unmet needs for deferred and unfunded items including
one-time costs for site maintenance. This is further discussed in Chapter 5 Demand & Need and
Chapter 7 Funding and Facilities Plan.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
PLAN
TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
This chapter describes the demographics of the Port Townsend community and results of
Community Engagement efforts to update this plan.
COMMUNITY PROFILE
Understanding resident demographics helps the City identify how to best serve current and
future resident population with parks and recreation facilities and programs.
Since 2010, Port Townsend has become increasingly older while also becoming increasingly less
impoverished. The following section reviews the share of older and younger persons,
household characteristics, persons of color, and household income citywide.
Age
As of 2017, about one-third of City residents were 65 years and older, increasing from about a
quarter of City residents in 2010. The portion of City residents who are 24 years and younger
has held relatively constant from 2010 to 2017, from 21% to 22%, respectively.
The median age for Port Townsend as of 2017 was 55 years -- similar to Jefferson County as a
whole, which had the highest median age of any county in Washington State in the same time
period.
See Exhibit 22 for a summary of how the citywide age distribution has changed from 2010 to
2017.
CH. 4 1 COMMUNITY PROFILE & ENGAGEMENT
Exhibit 22. Age Distribution in 2010 and 2017
WAM
201.2
Far>and over
5%
Srnandover
% 3%
Z' %On111`` �111` 6%
"% °?, m1111\`lk 15%
15Lo 84
FS Lo!4\11
. „ ,
�Alc 1111111
75 to 94
G ; tag14
, , , b , , ;., , , ,,�IA1111111 21%
1�j
S L. E 4
i $%a;, , , , , , , l� 14 % 21%
5 5 to 64
�p
10%
, ,
`8%
4S Lo 54
€; 4°l 7%
4,
4.5 to 54
p
�,�;:.�I�1111��\�\�\����������� 12%
3S Lo 44
j..,,������1�1���`��1�`` 10%
'5.� to 44
4�iu,, 9%
4%
25to:34
2.5to34.
p�
3% 611117%
1.5 to 24
7..5 to 2.4
4% 5% 9%
5 Lo 14
5 to 1..4
5% 3% 8%
Under 5years
Under 5years
2% 61111�����J� 5%
0% 5% :1.0% 1...5% 20%
25%
0% 5% 1.0% 15% 20% 25%
,,; Male II��I Female
"Male IN Fernale
`.,o urr„a . SourcoAnnorican °i40,101 !.> Yi �,1irr��5tr,, rf11.f11., )01 /; BI Kl< C:r:rriskialtir'i ;, 01�),
Both youth and older residents should have facilities or programming that are suited for their
needs and accessible, as barriers such as limited resources or transportation options may be
higher among this population than the rest of the community.
Nearly 40% of Port Townsend households are one -person households compared to about 30%
of households in Jefferson County overall. Exhibit 23 for a comparison on how persons per
households has changed in Port Townsend from 2010 to 2017.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 4 1 COMMUNITY PROFILE & ENGAGEMENT
Exhibit 23. Persons Per Household
100 %
90%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
2010 2017 2010 2017
Port Townsend
Jefferson County
IN 1-person household 111111 2-person household 3-person household 1100 4-or-mare-person household
`oui,a.r ,r Ain' rl Icmn Corrnrrlwlrit:y Sul wy S x01 `�x Yr �,I:irr'�ta9a r,, t(,ra.() & 20 1 /[ I,I 1"'K r-r nsullanl" 20,19
laaaa°cireaat: din needs fGalrrilingplle aadualks, p:aaartlia:uallaarlly the rallrgam a duallts Inaua cr palrruw lleint in the coin nrruualrnlity, rain support
as lrng lilnl Ipalla ce and IlilgrJapoing Ihuuaaalltlhn,
\Alh .lrna',. Ir m pairk rllrs ca
n a -a o a� , pS4sdir'lig �IIII� erSii;lnce is in �pira�k�✓Iirfilrng &JiY�CIIdle nP�4J°��D&!''4rsed chroir'Vll I a:alnGg Ira rrdJ!!'a-npll&alrll aa, "'gga
rAluseaa wEa Irmlrewalrrfl'orn and/or maalnaagernei'A Ipulrogiraalrrnas that keep 61der a. dualh:s Ih eaWhy a rnd a:ia::dve foryears to c orlrue
(Mean! n Iltrut:lhn, 2.01.7).
R rreaadon Ina.aaaa:p.aa grabyouth iiruduQde atr uctuulred a aa°Il,oarut,ies that rrneet druaaaulluuuplrrn rnt. ll Inuueds o Clh lldrein and q,a.a:^Irnr,
rgualle cei nu:aa wair0 t:u:a u:IlauwraMllaata Lh"neir cap'aaau ilde Ihauuq 0h ey ruaued opapua:aru:ualr0tieua and a atalpulropriate aadu.ulhq: ilruvaalhiernrarnt:
and g u'Haalance w do so. (\Moue:® 2010)
('flulidaanco pralr devr Ilralhaiing Iraarlla and a ,�circaafllrarn delhaaalrq:lrineint: youtahl Ihalrra lraarrur lindluudes t;lhun fo llra ung gr^aa�tuulresr: lyllrysk:all
and lyaaya:;lhnrrolluag;liuMaall saufifty, struuct:ulra:^ that Is aguaaarallu.ap irinernt,alllly aalpalpalraalhulrilaae, suaplp oirllovr^ Irr.11autilu:ar115lhnulyaa, a: aragaOlrt:uurnliuilaan'tQ
kuelluang' Ip osr i.oaau nuaur4 ll rna;,arrru^a, sualralhuralrG:'fu:alr efficacy and Irrnaut.tering, ualpalpaoirtuulrnlitlies fualraulkdlll Ilarulillre�:flrug;, and iinteguaa�tli0rn of
Nnirndy, sualrraok, and a:rarrrnrinuurnity a;ffoirLs. ( AL, 20'.10)
Diversity
Port Townsend has grown slightly more diverse since 2010; however, the population remains
largely white at 94% of the population in 2017. People of color identify as Black, Asian,
American Indian/Alaskan Native, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, two or more races or other.
Port Townsend is also slightly less diverse than Jefferson County overall, which is 91% white as
of 2017
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 4 1 COMMUNITY PROFILE & ENGAGEMENT
There are Spanish-speaking children in public schools. Other languages spoken by students
include Thai, Tagalog, Chinese and Japanese; there are fewer of these language speakers than
for Spanish. (Palmer, 2019)
fiIII""i f'� IIIrne
Around 13% of Port Townsend residents were living below the federal poverty line in 2017, a
decrease from about 17% in 2010. Jefferson County also had around 13% of residents living
below the federal poverty line in 2017. Port Townsend's median income in 2017 was slightly
below the countywide median income at $50,330 versus $51,842 and significantly below the
statewide median income of $66,174.
The share of Port Townsend's households at different income levels is illustrated in Exhibit 24.
Exhibit 24. Household Income Shares 2010 and 2017
'100'1yF,
O''flb
80111ri
70 tr11D
501X0
40 t,.;"y�
30%
20` b
110,f b
011Y r
l S"r'rs
MGM
i
P91rla
Ifflig
16'a/b
VMN
Jefferson County
22r14
Ili
■ Less ffic"i w$35,000 0 ' : 5,000 to $49,999 50,000 to $74,999 $75,000 tow 9 999 t,/" Ore ffia n $1010,000
` oijtccc s: Arrir:ur rm (otrirru,miF:y `xw vcyF S1901 �y Yt s larr ala r, )011.0 fir 201./; Ivl R11, f: r+ri;,kt11:1ni,, 10119,
The share of households earning different income levels shows an increase in higher income
households and a decrease in households at lower income levels at the city and county level in
2017. This may reflect the community attracting higher income households while still having a
significant share of households in need as living costs rise.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 4 1 COMMUNITY PROFILE & ENGAGEMENT
Households receiving food stamps have slightly risen from 2010 to 2017 from 11.2% to 11.7%
according to the ACS. The number of cost burdened households, renters and owners, earning
80% or less of the area median income and spending more than 30% of their income on
housing costs is 48% as of the 2012-2016 ACS.
As described under the Health Survey below, a lack of economic resources and ability to access
recreation are concerns.
HEALTH SURVEY
Based on the Jefferson County Community Health Assessment Report: Qualitative Findings from
Community Input, May 2019, top health and social concerns reflected the needs of both elderly
and young residents:
Access to health care
Barriers to accessing care
Affordable housing
Affordable childcare, and support for families with young children
Rural infrastructure challenges
Aging in place
Coordination across behavioral health, medical, justice and emergency response systems
One of several solutions for health and social challenges includes physical activity:
Community members and key informants felt that having access to outdoor recreation,
including hiking trails, hunting and fishing are key elements to promoting physical activity in
the community. However, respondents reported challenges in the winter when indoor
facilities are unavailable.
The study of health in Jefferson County included an online survey as well as qualitative
interview results summarized above. About two thirds of the 1,107 respondents had a Port
Townsend Zip Code. Responding to a health survey, respondents living in Port Townsend
indicated they go for physical activity primarily: on paths (23%), outside at home (19%), and at
public parks/playgrounds (16%). Other opportunities included inside at home (12%), roads (9%),
schools (7%), paid gym/class (7%), and other.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 4 1 COMMUNITY PROFILE & ENGAGEMENT
What would help Port Townsend individuals or families be more physically active included the
following top reasons:
Indoor options when weather is bad (17%)
More affordable classes/activities (17%)
More time (16%)
Information about activities or ways to be active that are free (13%)
More places where I can be active near my home (10%)
The survey asked about top challenges for senior citizens aged 65 years or greater. Port
Townsend respondents identified the following top five concerns:
Living on a fixed income
Social isolation/being lonely
Cost of needed assistance/care
Housing
Managing health problems
Providing affordable recreation programs may assist with the two top concerns.
The survey respondents also identified the biggest challenges for teens, with the top five being:
Substance use
Unhealthy or unstable home life
Maintaining emotional health
Abuse or misuse of technology (texting, internet, games, etc.)
Lack of afterschool or extracurricular activities
Having teen -oriented recreation programs could address the lack of afterschool or
extracurricular activities; the programs may also offer a sense of belonging and mastery of skills
that can help with a number of the other top concerns.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 4 1 COMMUNITY PROFILE & ENGAGEMENT
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The PROS Plan Update is based on public outreach and engagement to help define a new vision,
needs, and actions. The City has provided extensive public input opportunities identified in
Exhibit 25. Results of these events are summarized below the table and details included in
Appendix B.
Exhibit 25. Vision & System Plan Participation Summary
Survey
927
Postcards
277
Stakeholders Meeting
22
Middle School Vision Event
90
Public Open House
93
MVP Poster Comments
Undetermined
Staff & Parks Board Workshop 19
Public Workshop 70
sr,lsirc s110 ifl<consuh'lrgi 01.9.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 4 1 COMMUNITY PROFILE & ENGAGEMENT
Survey respondents from across the city and across age groups use and enjoy parks and trails,
and have ideas about how to improve upon what is important to them.
Most participants use parks in Port Townsend weekly or daily. The most visited
parks in Port Townsend are Fort Worden (a state park) and Chetzemoka (a city park), followed
by other facilities like North Beach Park (county park), Larry Scott Memorial Trail, and Mountain
View Pool.
Exhibit 26. Survey Participants: Frequency of Use
4. How o7 ten do yvn.0 A0 cap use parks in Port� Towinsen d2 (rr- 8.529. Now ohen do you vLsit or use Poaih, in Po¢t fownuend? (ro.=8 26)
Newer
lira w,n Swwey Ma+iilFey, I3f,fRK, 2019
Trail use is daily or weekly, similar to park use. People primarily use trails for active or
passive recreation purposes rather than commuting. Fort Worden trails are most used. There is
also high use of trails in the east and south parts of the city. Most want to see a loop trail, and
would be satisfied with either a signed route or a multi -purpose trail.
The top five recreation activities include hiking or walking, wildlife/nature
viewing, and biking/mountain biking, swimming, and picnicking. High School and Middle School
kids identified many of the same activities as well as basketball and skateboarding. See Exhibit
27. The PROS Plan Update survey in 2019 and a prior survey in 2010 listed the top two leisure
activities as 1) hiking/walking 2) wildlife/nature viewing. These activities have been listed
among the top five since 1975.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 4 1 COMMUNITY PROFILE & ENGAGEMENT
Exhibit 27. Top Recreation Activities
Most survey respondents depend on parks and open space to
provide opportunities for passive recreation purposes like hiking, walking, or enjoying nature,
and to provide environmental benefits for green space and wildlife. (See sidebar.) Most
participants believe it is important to have parks or open space within a 10-minute walk of their
home.
Most feel welcome and safe whether using the parks in groups or alone.
Most would use parks and trails more if they were a) better/improved, b) if they could more
safely access them by foot or bike, or 3) if they had more time to visit them.
About 30% of the survey
respondents use the City's Mountain
View pool daily or weekly, about 35%
use the pool monthly or occasionally,
and another 35% never use the pool.
Most respondents agreed very strongly
or strongly about making capital
investments in the pool and exploring
partnerships. If the pool were to be
improved, most are interested in a 25-
meter lap lane and features for kids.
Most disagree with the idea that the
City should stop operating the pool and
explore other alternative options for the
facility.
A place to hike and enjoy Erotw'e
A quiet prace to relax, l.aEcnl;c or walk
Preservation of green spaces for
future g5enri.im atioins
H aba tgsa for w dkfe
A place, fc" chddren to 1plara). ............................ 565
A physical Lmeak laowween urban
deve lop-raearN 341
A Iplace 90 nde ny biia cie rinouvat;air 339
buses
A place to pay wu+ or walk my c�oq '325
A place Bo gather for fc,inily events ///% � 324
A place to play orgaarauzed sports 553
`,dotlrmg -- I don't use ilae Ipark syrsterav _ P P
695
602
55'S
=t55
March 2020 PORTTOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 4 1 COMMUNITY PROFILE & ENGAGEMENT
Most respondents (76%) do not golf at
the Port Townsend municipal golf park, or at
other golf courses in the region (78%). Most do
not have an opinion on the operation (72%) of
the golf park. Opinions were mixed on
investment or use of the golf park with most
selecting "Don't Know" (about 33%).
The most important facility
needs identified by participants include trails,
indoor facilities (pool and centers), and open
space. (See sidebar.)
The types of programs desired
by survey and postcard participants include
outdoor activities, indoor activities, and
community events. High School survey
participants and Middle School postcard
participants identified a need for sports and
classes for youth or teens.
Park cres and Fli�riarifies
0 100 200 300 00
321
C. ndoo4 facll l'.,Yles
IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIiiI�Ilua�l, .. .t d
G. Open Space
IIIIIENfl���l�i,,, „ „ , 37S
H, \,Vatec fi onl Fadlith-u
�r%,,, ,,,,,,i. 215
�ulllhll
B. Family spacesIIIIii�(�Yflil��l�ll
p(+
.. � r��
D. C")obtdoor Active Recreation
�alll�,,, 129
A.C"cn,unanitySpe'aces
Bill�@
I. t:;WhVrr.:r
Iirll�i ��� 96
E. p cichl4yF.clMi.,
s� 94
When asked to distribute dollars towards projects, respondents put a higher average amount
on the aquatic center, followed by trails and open space/habitat. High school students provided
higher average dollars to the aquatic center, community center, and active recreation. See
Exhibit 28.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 4 1 COMMUNITY PROFILE & ENGAGEMENT
Exhibit 28. Survey Priorities — How would you spend $100 — All Respondents (n=589)
Faciilliity
Responses
Average $1.0 Normalized
Trails
$22.6 $12.2
Aquatic Center
Open Space, Habitats
$22.0 $11.9
Water Access
325
L $12.1 $6.5
Family Activities
321
$13.0 $7.0
Community Centers
296
L $16.8 $9.0
Active Recreation
264
$18.7 $10.1
Golf Park
225
L $7.3 $3.9
Other
121
30.9 16.6
Reviewing photos of different facility types, Vision Workshop participants tended to choose
passive outdoor features, though, Middle School students chose more active outdoor facilities.
See Exhibit 29.
Exhibit 29. Vision Workshop: What do you want in your parks?
I
Most participants at the System Plan
workshop would prioritize a "first" action
as investing in existing parks before
adding new parks or programs. (See
sidebar.)
At the System Plan workshop,
participants also showed enthusiasm in
poll responses and small groups for:
Pickleball, swimming, and trails
¢npmve existing parks
Expand trMs
Offer rrruevt rrmgrzrerT[Ming arid eve iQs,
Add new parks
Source!! IfoIlll I very"vvll on"< 2001:f.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS -
CH. 4 1 COMMUNITY PROFILE & ENGAGEMENT
Mixed opinions on the potential placement of active sports facilities with a preference in
more central locations, e.g. Mountain View instead of 35th Street Park
Support for active play areas in Bobby McGarraugh and less support for play areas in the
eastern part of Sather Park
Support for improved water access at Chetzemoka and improved picnic areas at
Chetzemoka and Kah Tai parks
Across Vision activities, some themes stood out as illustrated in Exhibit 30. Themes included:
Balancing aging in place and coming of age in Port Townsend
Indoor and outdoor recreation for healthy lifestyles
Access, navigability, and safety
Green spaces
Specialization, flexibility, versatility and creative partnerships
These PROS Plan Vision Themes are consistent with the Comprehensive Plan Vision to ensure
Port Townsend is great place to live, with a sense of place, that prizes its natural setting.
Exhibit 30. Vision Themes
At the System Plan Workshop attended by about 70 persons, the theme that resonated the
most included "indoor and outdoor recreation for healthy lifestyles" selected by 59% of
participants. Secondarily, "green spaces" was selected by 29% of those attending the workshop.
"Balancing aging -in -place and coming of age in Port Townsend" received 11% of votes at the
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS = `.
CH. 4 1 COMMUNITY PROFILE & ENGAGEMENT
workshop. "Access, navigability, and safety" was selected by 7% of participants. Last,
"specialization, flexibility, versatility, and creative partnerships" was selected by 2% of
respondents.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
PLAN
TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
INTRODUCTION
Building on the prior Chapter's review of community demographics, health, and engagement,
this Chapter focuses on demand and need for parks and recreation facilities and programs
considering:
Recreation trends,
Participation and use of the current park system,
Future growth and change,
Gaps and opportunities,
Comparisons to benchmark communities, and
Levels of service
RECREATION TRENDS
Recreation trends both locally and nationally were studied to better understand how existing
recreation programming in the Port Townsend area aligns with what other park providers offer
and what is desired by the public. They can also help the City anticipate new trends where
demands may not be filled by existing programming.
IIMn on ��i � ",irlbl(' an F)enfiIristo Flegi oli Ftf' IIIII IIIIIcII potion Trends
Washington State surveys residents statewide every five years about outdoor recreation
demand and identifies participation trends statewide and by region as part of its Washington
State Recreation and Conservation Plan (Hedden, 2017) (Jostad, 2017). Port Townsend falls in
the Peninsulas Region. Findings for 2017 are shown in Exhibit 31 and include:
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
The activity with the highest participation rate, is walking in a park or trail setting (84%
statewide, 85% Peninsulas region). This is true of respondents of all ages, genders, races,
and incomes. Walking as an activity has seen an increase in participation since the last
survey in 2012.
Visiting a water body of some kind directly appears in three of the 10 top activities.
Exhibit 31. Top-10 Outdoor Recreation Activities for the Peninsulas Region by Rank, 2017
1
Walking in a park or trail setting
Walking
85%
2
Visiting a beach or tide pools
Nature Activities
75%
3
Visiting rivers and streams
Nature Activities
64%
4
Gather or collect things in a nature setting (e.g., rocks, shells, plants)
Nature Activities
59%
Attending an outdoor concert or event (e.g. farmer's market, fairs,
57%
5
sporting events)
Leisure Activities
6
Scenic or wilderness area
Sightseeing
57%
7
Day -hiking
Hiking
54%
8
Wildlife or nature viewing
Nature Activities
54%
9
Swimming/wading at a beach — saltwater
Swimming
49%
10
Driving or motorcycling for pleasure
Sightseeing
48%
ourco: (R+s k; cl, �('H./).
A national survey of more than 1,400 public, non-profit, and private recreation providers
illustrates top planned facilities or programs in 2019 nationwide; see Exhibit 32.
Results show the top five facilities planned include splash play areas, playgrounds, fitness trails,
synthetic sports fields, and dog parks. The balance of facilities involve picnic shelters, trails,
restrooms, bleachers and seating, and fitness centers. The top five programs involve exercise,
fitness, education, programs for older adults, and mind -body balance. Remaining programs
include teen programs, day camps, special events, environmental education, and special needs
programs.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS '%
CH. 5 1 DEMAND& NEED
Exhibit 32. Top Planned Facilities and Programs by Rank, 2019
1
Group exercise programs (27.5%)
1
Splash play areas (21.1%)
2
Fitness programs (27%)
2
Playgrounds (17.6%)
3
Educational programs (26.6%)
3
Fitness trails and outdoor fitness equipment (17.1%)
4
Programs for active older adults (25.9%)
4
Synthetic turf sports fields (16.8%)
5
Mind -body balance programs (24.5%)
5
Dog parks (15.7%)
6
Teen programs (23.4%)
6
Park shelters (14.5%)
7
Day camps and summer camps (23%)
7
Walking and hiking trails (13.8%)
8
Holidays and other special events (21.8%)
8
Park restrooms (13.8%)
9
Environmental education (21.8%)
9
Bleachers and seating (12.9%)
10
Special needs programs (21.6%)
10
Fitness centers (12.5%)
Part I ow"�sehill d IIINdeeds
Based on the results from the Vision Survey summarized in Chapter 4, the top three most
important needs for future recreation programming identified by respondents were outdoor
activities, indoor activities, and community events. See Exhibit 33 for a summary of recreation
programming needs identified by respondents.
Exhibit 33. Future Port Townsend Recreation Programming Needs, All Respondents
Outdoor activities
Indoor activities - gVm, swirnming, other
Community events
Classes or progra ms for youth & teens
Enrichment and education
Classes or programs, senior/adult
Daycare -- Licensed childcare for working families
Classes oir programs for preschool age.
Sports — leagues or lessons
Camps --suminer and school-brealk
volunteer opportunities
0
M 5 - Very important 11111114 3 2
Soijrcc: 131: [:d I<, 201,9,
200 300 400 500 600 700
11111 1 - Very unimportant 0 Don't Know
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS ','
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
Unsurprisingly, given the differing needs of youth versus adults for recreation programming,
youth respondents to the Vision Survey identified contrasting priorities relative to the results of
all respondents. The most important needs for future recreation programming identified by
youth respondents were sports leagues, youth -focused classes or programming, daycare,
outdoor activities, and educational programming. See Exhibit 34.
Exhibit 34. Future Port Townsend Recreation Programming Needs, Youth Respondents
Sports ..... leagues or lessons
Classes or programs for youth & teens
ICkdAyCelPe— If ce nse'.d chlidcare iorworking ffamliles
Outdoor activities
Enrichment and education
Indoor' adivitlea ... gyrra, sw I mrming, either'
Community events
Camps.....surnmerand school -break
Volunteer opporiunitles
Classes or programs ffor preschool age
Ciasses or programs, senior/adult
1015 a - Very irnportant. 11014 i ;'2 IN 1 - Very uniimportarrt N Don't, Know
`,o,urcei . ItI:IRK, 201.9,
PARTICIPATION
Participation data for the City as well as for the Jefferson County YMCA and Jefferson County
Parks and Recreation were compiled to gain further context for recreation programming
demand in the Port Townsend area.
Please note that this information was compiled from multiple recreation providers using
varying tracking methods; as such, not all data are directly comparable. For example, drop -in
recreation programming such as that offered at the Mountain View Pool through the City or at
the Port Townsend Community Center through Jefferson County is best measured in visitors
received whereas other programs such as arts and crafts programming through the YMCA is
best tracked through unique registrations.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
The City currently offers recreation through aquatic programming. Participation in the City's
programming is fairly robust, especially for a city of 9,600 people, though participants are
drawn from a larger area. See Exhibit 35 for a summary of participation in the City's recreation
programming.
Exhibit 35. Participation in City of Port Townsend Recreation Programs
Club Swimming
Registrations
2018
Youth
270
Swim Lessons
Registrations
2018
Youth
1,080
Health and Fitness Classes
Attendance
2019
Adult
10,197
Total Annual Visits
Visitors
2018
Youth & Adult
34,812
f cjlee, Hr>altlii and ItriessClasses zlr,es nr+t incliucJe Ac,{I,m Boxing € 1, IIower I uncJ1 psaQiG il,mtIcm i����G�arr`il�a i,,, IOtl l Annuzil VISItS (JM S
not lnc.liaeje v1sit alion frorn swim IeSS, 111 Iai���;rG,airyas.
`.,OUiTC C1I,yO> I'01H I�OW11,01"Id, 201% BI Itlt, )tJiJ�:��.
°111 ° III Ig�!III,II ' (!!%.111�(-re ti III �Illl f�� ideIIr in IIIII")oII f II I�,�WeIIi Area
General Recreation -- WWCA
The Olympic Peninsula YMCA operates the YMCA of Jefferson County branch, which provides a
wide variety of programs. While these programs tend to have smaller registration numbers
relative to the City or the County, these programs are generally more specialized and fill
another niche. See Exhibit 36 for participation in YMCA of Jefferson County programming.
Exhibit 36. Participation in YMCA of Jefferson County Recreation Programming
Arts & Crafts
Registrations
2019
Youth
14
Child Care
Registrations
2019
Youth
48
Family Activities
Registrations
2019
Youth & Adult
50
Mentorship
Registrations
2019
Youth & Adult
70
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
Sports Leagues Adult
Registrations
Summer Day Camps
Registrations
Summer Overnight Camps
Registrations
Youth Nutrition Programs
Registrations
`,wjrc s, Olynnjpp c fIenr i,vml;7 Yi1 t
y, 20111); B1:1 R, I<, 2019.
2019
Adult
106
2019
Youth
37
2019
Youth
28
2019
Youth
150
"4 W " t 9' 4 1 ",:I� w l Parks ��� and pc " A ry
>�`�J1�.d'��f.,�`�� �i�,fro�",o�a�„n�������„��`� �f,..p��nL."��"�Gai���'i Vlo�.+fd"nt��'�n�"�� � n������W"rn,"�v 1�.hW�'f,��` �ilr�.�f.��,�n>A�'��"f,��"'�`
Jefferson County Parks and Recreation's recreation programming is mostly concentrated in
sports leagues and sports camps along with drop -in recreation, but with a healthy amount of
registrations per program type. This usage aligns with the needs of Port Townsend residents
expressed in the Vision Survey of indoor activities and sports leagues (especially for youth). See
Exhibit 37 for annual participation and seasonality of programs offered by Jefferson County.
Exhibit 37. Participation in Jefferson County Parks and Recreation Programming
Health and Fitness Classes N/A
Preschool N/A
Special Needs Programs N/A
16+ Coed Rec Soccer League Registrations
16+ Coed Rec Soccer Pick -
Up (indoor and outdoor
Registrations
depending)
Youth Volleyball Camp
Registrations
Winter Wrestling Camp
Registrations
Summer Basketball Camp
Registrations
Basketball - 16+ Coed Rec
Registrations
Evening at PT Rec
Basketball -16+ Coed Rec
Morning Basketball M-W-F
Registrations
Softball, 18+ Co -Ed Rec
Softball League (12 teams)
Registrations
Youth Basketball — Jr Hoops
Registrations
PreK - 6
Soccer, Coed PreK - 8th
Grade Fall Rec Soccer
Registrations
League
2019
Adult
N/A*
Year Round
2019
Youth
N/A*
Year Round
2019
Youth & Adult
N/A*
Year Round
2019
Adult
70
16
2019
68
36
Adult
2019
Youth
35
1
2019
Youth
30
3
2019
Youth
38
1
2019
Adult
24
40
2019
Adult
29
42
2019
Adult
220
12
2019
Youth
178
9
2019
169
9
Youth
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
Soccer, Coed PreK - 6th
Grade Spring Rec Soccer Registrations 2019 254
League Youth
Drop -In Recreation Visitors Avg. Estimate Youth & Adult 45,700
Irira1es, Particilrsiftbrn ru nnl:l,Crs,',irr• not rr c ordl"r 1.
,ourc s,Jefferson f.r,;rui3Oy, 201,1), i;i"C�211�, 011).
Year Round
,5;,entor f ocusedProgrciu'ri,P ��`m�� .i���u��ti b (�mO,LU'l?`,'y erso9' q l. he� b
Jefferson County contracts with the Port Townsend Senior Association (PTSA) to operate the
upstairs portion of the Port Townsend Community Center. The PTSA provides: senior meals,
senior exercise programs, learning opportunities, social activities, games, and meeting spaces
for local clubs, service organizations, and support groups. (Port Townsend Senior Association
(PTSA) , 2019) Usage information was not available at the time of this writing.
Jefferson Healthcare provides a Wellness Center offering senior exercise options including
fitness classes, cardio, balance, yoga, and pilates. Usage information was not known at the time
of this writing. (Jefferson Healthcare, 2019)
Other recreation providers are specialized with regard to maritime recreation, including:
Northwest Maritime Center: This center hosts the long-standing Wooden Boat Festival
started in 1978. In 1980 the center added youth and adult programs to offer on -the -water
opportunities in sailing, rowing, boatbuilding, and wooden boat regattas. Programs are
housed at the Northwest Maritime Center within a waterfront campus that opened in 2009
after much fund raising.
Marine Science Center: The Port Townsend Marine Science Center (PTMSC) is an
educational and scientific organization with its mission devoted to understanding and
conserving the marine and shoreline environment. The center has an aquarium and
museum. It offers wildlife cruises and beach low -tide walks. The center offers school -age
classes and tours and summer camps. The center provides a lecture series, and encourages
Citizen Science projects.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
Key City Public Theater offers Shakespeare in the Park at Chetzemoka Park every summer in
August. Shakespeare in the Park is "Pay -What -You -Wish" at the gate with cash or check.
Centrum is a non-profit focused on fostering creative arts experiences for adults and children.
The center is located at Fort Worden. Offerings include:
Artists residencies
Music workshops and festivals
Writers conferences for high school age and adults
Youth programs in theater, music, dance, and science (the latter in coordination with the
Marine Science Center)
FUTURE GROWTH AND CHANGE
Popt,fllatiari GrowfIh
Port Townsend's Comprehensive Plan is directed towards a 2036 population growth target of
12,165 persons, an increase of 2,555 persons beyond 2019, a 27% increase. See Exhibit 38.
Exhibit 38. Population Growth and Growth Target
Population 8,334 9,113 9,610 12,165
Soi.arce `zNAe of V,/ ashingl'oii Office of I [rirar vial IVlPaim gn rnent, 2019.
To achieve the 2036 target, the City would experience a 1.3% growth rate from 2019-2036. This
is higher than experienced from 2000-2010 at 0.9% or from 2011-2019 at 0.6%. See Exhibit 39.
Exhibit 39. Population Growth Rates
Growth Rate 0.9% 0.6% 1.3%
soutcesa BI R K, )0'19,
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
The City has capacity for added residential growth and an increase in population would mean
an increase in use and demand for parks and recreation facilities and programs. See the level of
service analysis later in this chapter.
To i uIIrIIIII IIIrv"t I rends
Port Townsend is a destination for visitors and some parks, particularly those in Downtown and
the Waterfront are visited. Tourism spending and employment have increased in Jefferson
County:
Tourism spending for accommodations, food, retail, arts and entertainment, and recreation
in Jefferson County has increased from 2010-2018 by 5.5%.
Employment in tourism businesses has increased from 2010 to 2018 by 1.7%. (Dean Runyan
Associates, 2019)
Assuming tourism remains a strong aspect of the local economy it is likely that tourism will
increase over the City's planning horizon of 2036. Usage of parks by visitors is likewise likely to
increase with implications for special event planning and maintenance.
GAPS AND OPPORTUNITIES
IP A IIIIdIIk
Port Townsend has ample parks acres
between its own inventory as well as
Fort Worden and County lands.
However, it is not distributed to all
neighborhoods. Exhibit 40 illustrates
parcels within a half mile of City,
County, or State Parklands. Generally a
quarter to a half mile is considered
walkable. Ensuring there is parkland in
proximity to a majority of residents was
V-ny h porfan t
Neutral/'Not Scum
Unimportant 20
vevy 9Jnhnipollan t 12
highly supported as described in Chapter 4 Community Profile & Engagement. (See sidebar.)
Based on access, there are gaps in central and western neighborhoods of Port Townsend.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
Exhibit 40. Properties in a Half Mile of City, County, or State Parklands
Exhibit 401. Properties in a Half Mile of City, County, or State Parldands
% F0,
f'N
41
,
wo NMI
a me
r �PY
y�yNIIN��Y� �r
gggvy
i �
Golf
J i i ly t G
gigs
oIMS
i
;'"nmmNrNl l 0,11 ur4hr m�&
f
i
n o ;.: �rrv_�r rt� vr�.r ��"ma�mtl�.rllFuavouall�
,ll1� ryY W
'', I,p�mr 3 n �s e , „ o Ja..�,a n owe„ � , , .,, a Vr„ i5c v,,,ar r x.,�✓,, ;d � ,� �. (,��;, Ynv�o
fP , ✓- pt,i �ti ,f r v.
u ^r , w � ti r m r R u r r p a �� ro✓ ��
r:,. 0„, el w
Ik✓�-�, uV, kbNul, lik' "YRelr .✓,b✓ ✓nF%n„%ll L�SIec 000
i
4 — ,a _ , e p u 0 .: r..ri
'wP wn�:,mu.u� mwll V�o�u�smw,�u¢r�.e ,� , '11l 411 BERK
"syi. i,n. 1rtPierscan C o wnly Assessor) ['o H I (mivir„ nind t IS, 4[fl:.Rl< 2019
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
It should be noted that the map in Exhibit 40 accounts for proximity as well as quality (or
breadth) of facility offerings by location. As noted on the map some facilities have narrow or
broad offerings for recreation. For example, Garden Parks (City Entrance, Dahlia Park) provide
visual open space benefits but limited or no recreation opportunities, whereas, Chetzemoka
Park offers playgrounds, open lawns, picnic areas, restrooms, etc. Thus, the access gaps for
residents to facilities offering broader recreation opportunities are greater in the western and
southwestern areas, given more comprehensive facilities are located in central and eastern
parts of town.
There are opportunities to close these service gaps in the central areas of the city by partnering
with the School District at Blue Heron Middle School. There are also opportunities to improve
access and features at existing parks such as 35t" Street Park or 12t" and Hancock to help serve
the western side of the city. Filling gaps in the trail network such as along Discovery Road
(described below) can help connect residents in the southwest to existing facilities.
Through Community Engagement results, the public conveyed high use of existing trails and a
desire for better connected trails. Most want to see a loop trail and would be satisfied with
either a signed route utilizing different trail types or a multi -purpose trail. See Exhibit 41.
Exhibit 41. Potential Loop Trail
The Port Townsend Loop Trail is a conceptualized "circle" through the City connecting neighborhoods, schools, and
parks. What kind of Loop Trail would you want? (n=807)
Entire Va, q,-> Iaa[Vt to mulltii-purposealcsu gn
standards (u aiurafdlcar c.xaYrvjo�a is Larry 267
Scott Trdl)?
_oop dos'tlgnaalod as a "route" rhaar
cor)Taut,cWst1ru4:",gdna.afkarttraxVsof 399
diffaarentt widths and cha°arcaca or? �
'rho: Ti oil sysioni is, fine as -'is, 0 don't want ca 141
LamcrptaToaII
SC2LLrc.a.. Smrvoy IVlorflkoy, f1f,Rl?'20][9,
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS ,
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
Community input received during the 2020 PROS Plan process affirms the Community Direction
Statement in the Comprehensive Plan which envisions "....a larger network of trails that lead to
surrounding districts and residential neighborhoods. This loop also unites an extensive system
of parks and open spaces, including many environmentally sensitive areas that provide
significant wildlife habitat." This vision for a potential loop trail is reflected on the Land Use
Map adopted in concert with the Comprehensive Plan.
Specifically, the P/OS(A) - Potential Park and Open Space (overlay) shown on the Land Use Map
"includes areas that may have the potential to be included within a comprehensive and
interconnected system of open spaces and trails. The P/OS(A) overlay appears in areas that
could be valuable if maintained as open spaces, such as wooded areas, drainage corridors, and
scenic vistas. These areas could accommodate multiple functions, including lower density
residential development, stormwater management, wildlife habitat, and passive recreation.
Three primary approaches are being considered in the development of this network: outright
purchase of key properties; incentives for landowners to cluster new development in areas
outside, or on the margins, of open space areas; and reductions in allowable density."
Improving trail connections and amenities would also help encourage more use of parks in Port
Townsend, important to Vision Survey and Health Survey respondents described in Chapter 4.
See Exhibit 42.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
Exhibit 42. Better Use of Parks and Trails
What would encourage you to use parks and trails in Port Townsend more often? (n=775)
Better/rnpurovecd Vpark faaafl%ea ([uglhfing„
ue,trroornn, etc,)2 t
H [ ¢:arfld safely wcsVVa..',r it rude unn°y IU lke to therm 165
More time to vVmut or u�sa parks and Poramuls �iiii� ����������������������������� 1 50
Be1der/4aap roved park grounds and tr aiVs 135
ni a'IrlenaIIni:"'"
Bette„ ir/�reampp°ove playground <stru.uctuirea, � 1 122
More urafforirm�caficrrvn on park bceafions and carmau:inifiese 117
If I hva. d r oser to ca I,raaWark or trcaiV 106
IEaatyeOnagrove d safety un the parks W1
MopeIi„acairI*urng cavrfl abh.r inea r thi- park 53
Vff I had trcacn<..podaafion access to get to as p ad< or
17
h"do coramn�em�yu, I'm uat¢nffde ud 161
`,oiaree: S, Ai wsy Monl,a y, Itf.l11< 2019
Through Community Engagement results, specific requested trail location improvements
included several along major routes to connect to destinations. See Exhibit 43.
Exhibit 43. Community Engagement Trail Improvement Requests
oi,arr;a 111.R,I , 201.1,1.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
IIII�Icrea iiiii aiii
The landscape of current recreation programming in the Port Townsend area was compared
with resident recreation programming needs as expressed through the Vision Survey to identify
recreation programming gaps. Through this analysis, the following program gaps were
identified:
There are currently no childcare,
daycare, or afterschool programs provided directly by either the City or Jefferson County. The
Jefferson County YMCA offers a childcare program while Jefferson County has a partnership
with a day care center in the Port Townsend Recreation Center. Nevertheless, among youth
respondents to the Vision Survey, daycare was among the most important future programming
need identified. Providing more of these programs could help ease the burden on the area's
working families. The 2019 Health Survey also found that affordable childcare and support for
families with young children was important.
Given that Port Townsend is becoming increasingly
older with over 30% of the population 65 and older as of 2017, there is a relative lack of
programming specifically targeting seniors. In the Port Townsend area, senior specific
programming primarily consists of the senior exercise programs offered through the Port
Townsend Senior Center and health and fitness activities through Jefferson Healthcare. While
not senior specific, the aquatic fitness classes offered through Mountain View Pool also offer a
good senior exercise option.
Still, based on community feedback, residents recognize there is a need for additional senior
programming. In the Vision Survey, respondents were given the opportunity to rank their three
most important recreation needs -- classes for seniors were among respondents' top -five most
important recreation needs after aggregation. Additionally, according to the 2019 Jefferson
County Community Health Survey, one of the top challenges for Port Townsend seniors was the
lack of recreational or social activities.
In both the City's and in Jefferson County's recreation
programming offerings there is a strong focus on sports or fitness recreation without much of a
focus on cultural or educational classes. The YMCA does offer some arts and crafts courses;
however, these are offered only for youth and have minimal participation. However, there does
appear to be a strong desire for these types of offerings in the community. Both adults and
youth respondents for the Vision Survey identified enrichment or education course or classes as
among the most important recreation needs for the future.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
Similar to
cultural or educational offerings above, there is a lack of environmental or wilderness classes or
courses among recreation programming offerings in the Port Townsend area. There is a strong
interest and desire among the community for outdoor recreation and activities. Outdoor
activities were listed as the most important recreation programming need in the future among
all respondents of the Vision Survey.
BENCHMARKS
Benchmarking compares Port Townsend's park system to peer communities or to communities
that offer aspirational park systems. While Port Townsend forms its own plans to meet its
residents' needs, comparisons to other communities can offer valuable perspectives and
insights.
Peer communities include other peninsula or tourist -oriented communities of Port Angeles,
Sequim, and Poulsbo. See Exhibit 44.
Exhibit 44. Peer Communities Reviewed
Port Angeles 23 270.0
19,370
Poulsbo 19 134.9
11,180
Port Townsend 26 189.2
9,610
Sequim 8 117.0
7,695
,tai.2i,c r £zNAe? of ' ✓,a..�1� 11i.1#"101.i Office c� I in ancial Mai irag,e men , 201. 1, Cities' s' ,)udge s 1201.17 Bl::ItI' 2019
Annually, the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) provides benchmark
information for communities across the country similar in size as Port Townsend. Additionally,
NRPA accredits highly functioning systems through the Commission for Accreditation of Park
and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). This analysis reviews CAPRA accredited communities of
Bellevue and MetroParks Tacoma. While larger, this analysis considers their systems on a per
population or per acre basis for comparison. The inclusion of the CAPRA accredited systems is
to provide a comparison to agencies that meet NRPA's highest criterion, considered to be
industry best practices and standards.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
cn k Diu A c; res
Port Townsend's own inventory provides 20 acres per 1,000 population counting its full
inventory with the golf park. Compared to the full inventories of other communities, including
NRPA's inventory of communities less than 20,000 in population, Port Townsend's inventory is
relatively higher. If adding the Fort Worden and County properties the acres per 1,000 would
be even higher at 70.9 acres per 1,000 though that would be true of other peer communities if
adding state and county facilities in their city limits.
Despite the high acreage and as described under Gaps and Opportunities, Port Townsend's park
acres are not distributed to all neighborhoods. Park improvements at undeveloped sites,
targeted partnerships with other public agencies, trail extensions, or acquisitions could help fill
the gaps.
Exhibit 45. Total Acres per 1,000 Population
r-M'ort Townsend 19.7
NRPA 1Rc: p -20K Upper Qurcrt0e %//////%0//////%//////////%%//////1111/%//%/////%/////////%0//////%//////////%%////////%//// 18.9
Bau ev ue (APRA 1 S.6
SecjuG rn 1115.2
Meta°oPaarks Tacoma CAPRA, jj � 1 4X)
Poulsdoo 12,1
51,0 I 1„ro ,?Baca 25.0
>ourc,,�, 11JI1,11A ?0 19, (Iiy and Sjp col lyi i ris i Bw fz,,,O ,, BI I kfr ("ll l.9
ail Miles
Similar to parks, Port Townsend has an abundance of trail miles per 1,000 population compared
to peer and aspirational communities. See Exhibit 46.
Though abundant, the trail system is not continuous. As described in Chapter 4, public input has
identified some trail system desires and gaps in key locations.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS ....
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
Exhibit 46. Trail Miles per 1,000 Population
Po rn 7, ms,,-wa
0.0
P,,ukr r, 0. 5
1'ue.,xwo C'APPA 0.
So arc , loRI'A 019, City ,and `fj"icr, aI 1:lisrina t I,di.arlgnt ",, I;I'1141' 20,1191
Recreation Fad1h1,'h.,may.
Based on NRPA benchmarks for communities with a population density similar to Port
Townsend, the combined sports inventories of the State, County, Schools, and City illustrate a
population ratio that is favorable. See Exhibit 47. Facility Benchmarking.
Exhibit 47. Facility Benchmarking
Playgrounds
3,163
5 2 1
1,201
Basketball Courts (outdoor)
5,971
4 1
1,922
Tennis Courts (outdoor)
4,296
1 2 4
1,373
Diamond Fields -Youth
6,597
2 2 2
1,373
Rectangular Fields -Multipurpose
7,469
2 6
1,201
Dog Park
47,000
2 1**
3,203
Seamus Sims Skate Park
44,000
1
9,610
Pdotes: '`B a c; d on r r,r"ntnunil ics with prrl"aukrtlon Iar r Sta1U Ur mile raf I'';01 to `? 'a00, l hu City h,,S �3 d nsify of "I,''94 in
y 019,
�" I I i a f,aii{','tciijnaJr<,airyr,t o11" e1,aled I:ay1 hu, r,oI.inty, ina1: by t h e, fait bciatd and r Ia: ,,isft,,
`krrurce: je fr;"tsvn (:r,,,runlo I"Id0 !, I'Is",in 201b" f111V/11, �019 N I � I I A l(; 11)j Idl I� K' 2019,
The NRPA benchmarks address typical facilities. A facility type not benchmarked is pickleball
which has seen local interest in community clubs, and Vision Survey responses.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
The City's share of expenditures per acre of managed sites, excluding the golf park, is in the
range of examined jurisdictions including the pool. See Exhibit 48. However, the neighboring
communities (Poulsbo, Sequim, Port Angeles) do not operate pools, so once excluded, the City's
expenditures per acre are less than nearly all agencies. The golf park is excluded in these
estimates since the City does not maintain it.
Most peer communities referenced do not operate pools, except MetroParks Tacoma. The level
of outdoor pool operation is about 52% in NRPA benchmark information; the percentage with
indoor pools is not known.
Exhibit 48. Maintenance and Operations Expenditures per Acre of Managed Sites
otroPaurrhrs I'aconna ew PRA
Bellevue n°:;A PRA
P4RIPA Upper Qu orlik ,, 1 Sf:d'U -2500 pprrrn IIU IIIII�1111�1111UUIIII�1111! y1111�1111�!!l1�11111 y1111 yJJJ1 yIJJJ�1al lu � ,»��
Port Angeles f 2,820
Port'Towsrersa;~nd wlitht Poolll" 0,000
h4IRIPA Mcdl in 1501 to 2500 p psirri $6, ,50
Ur ,rooaiUslkrcti 6,526
Port 'Townsend w0h oul Poolle $3,722
N" excludes PT Uolf
1 1u uunn 2,1 IU2
CC)ul'Se (kCCeS
Note: IVIr Holt ''ai ks 1 racorlI a operates irirdoor pcxa Is 0lheI'cit in s ir!.,'fr.rrsrIc d do rix+l: 11MItagE; rrr oIs I he IdIU"'A iInLes 11"rak 52%, of�
<,d,rslncl s have outrla ol, hrrarals as of 12011) Ili t i411r iiwlr°aa:ai Pools Is; n at I010VVI'l.
Acra'2 rlylw,, ("AI)RA (.:ofl"nnl1 ,sla Y or Accrt fdlt ",rl,Jori fdl Flair ono Recreation Ag,, .P1cl , thl" lirl p.,fJ YI,'y/ has liccI(' fated the Islf'1d
ar' r dlcl rai•,i lor i ,rarl" pol ,r{a.aare l the NldfF' -) as ialent if ie d 1:hrii o xll-wndlt ur od lypk al a1„cn( esk f awo d on flonsily of�
I rr,rl:5aalra1:ir,ra�7.
`7rrlmc 11,IRI''Fr, 2019, 01Y and AV �crat.y Bu dl,ut, )0191 BI'RK, 2011),
Results are similar when considering operating expenses per capita. See Exhibit 49. Port
Townsend is in the range of peers and lower when excluding the pool, a feature most
communities do not have under their management as a public facility.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
Exhibit 49.Operating Expenses per Capita 2019
sokvuc "APRI�U111111111�1111111111U�U1111111111�1111111111�1111111111�1111111111�1U111111111�1111111111� �
M lroParks l'ac,csnsa CAPP 504
�NRPA Upper Qu�arlde 1500.2500 IIIIIIIIII III
1 4
Pears Townsend wvfth Poo109
INRFIA me&ani 1501 to 2500 p psn,ro
Pould->o 6
Port'lro,wnsa'nd aadsl"Ioul Pool 0
Sc slu hin S 2
`.,ourrc; I,IluIIA, r011); City and p,,onc )019, ItI RK, XY19,
LEVEL OF SERVICE
IIIq° ' IIIII of S ii iiiii °4
The City's adopted level of service (LOS) is an acres -based formula established in the 1990s with
the City's first Comprehensive Plan under the Growth Management Act. The Comprehensive
Plan Capital Facilities Element continues to identify 7.6 acres per 1,000 population as the
standard. However, the Comprehensive Plan defers to this PROS Plan for direction on local
service standards for "equitable access, distribution, and function."
The 2014 PROS Plan indicated that the acres -based LOS is measured to exclude the golf park
acres and to exclude the water area of Kah Tai Lagoon. With that measurement standard, the
City has adequate acres to serve its population today but there would be a deficit of about 7
acres with the 2036 population projection established in County Resolution 38-15. See Exhibit
50. If the golf park with 58.9 acres and the lagoon with 44.7 acres is included, the reserves
would increase.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
Exhibit 50. LOS Evaluation: Comprehensive Plan 7.6 Acres per 1,000 Population
1993 7,755 58.9 59.0 7.6 Yes 0 130.6 71.7
2010 9,113 69.3 74.6 8.2 Exceeds 5 146.2 76.9
2019 9,610 73.0 85.6 8.9 Exceeds 13 189.2 116.1
2036 12,165 92.5 85.6 7.0 Exceeds [7] 189.2 96.7
rt: ui,c.eCity (�,)f O)w n serid 2014; I13, RII, "(ill).
This PROS Plan carries forward the Comprehensive Plan LOS policy as a base standard. Target
LOS measures are presented below to address "equitable access, distribution, and function"
referenced in the Capital Facilities Element. The base and target LOS help the City to acquire
and develop parks consistent with Comprehensive Plan Land Use Element Policy 4.3 in Chapter
2. Alternative means of measuring the acres available to the public are also provided for
consideration in future Comprehensive Plan Updates.
LOS
This PROS Plan establishes an equitable access and distribution objective:
Provide parks and recreation facilities within a 10-minute walk (approximately a half mile,
0.5) to reach over 90% of Port Townsend's population by 2036. Currently, based on the
Trust For Public Land's park score, about 68% of current Port Townsend residents are within
a 10-minute walk of a park. This objective would increase the percentage of residents with
equitable access over the Comprehensive Plan period.
Ensure parkland within a 10-minute walk meets minimum standards for the park
classification.
Prioritize neighborhoods with higher concentrations of families with children or seniors
living alone.
Target filling of gaps in central and western city limits by 2036. See Exhibit 40.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS '
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
Consider phasing improved access by filling in missing links in trails, improving existing
parkland that does not meet minimum standards, partnering with other public agencies
such as schools or Jefferson County to make available properties to the public for
recreation, and targeted acquisitions.
To maintain functionality, the PROS Plan establishes an objective that
the value of the system the City has invested in does not decrease as the community grows.
As of 2019, on a per capita basis the City has invested in the system at about $910 in
facilities and $3,250 to $6,670 in land. See Exhibit 51. This is estimated from insurance
values in structures and an average value per acre considering several park sites in the
inventory. If investing at a similar rate as the current population, the total investment need
in the future by 2036 with the planned 2036 population up to 12,165 would equal nearly
$11 to $20 million. For a typical capital facility plan 6-year period, the level of investment
would be $3.8 to $6.9 million. Annually, this is approximately $625,000 to 1,150,000 per
year. See Exhibit 49 for the current per capita investment value and Exhibit 52 for the
application of the per capita investment value to future population growth.
The median investment per year considering all NRPA agencies of all sizes is just over $800,000
per year. Agencies with a similar population density as Port Townsend manage capital programs
of about $1.1 million per year. Agencies managing 250 acres or less of parkland tend to have
capital budgets of about $280,000 per year. See Exhibit 53. Locally, the 2019 budgeted
investments for nearby communities ranged from $145,000 (Sequim) to $300,000 (Port
Angeles) to $687,000 (Poulsbo).
Future investments should add capacity to the system consistent with this plan and without
decreasing the value of the system enjoyed today. This plan proposes an annual investment
range of $300,000 to $900,000 per year, depending on available funding sources.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS '
CH. s| osMxmo&msso
Exhibit S1'Investment Per Capita 2019
popu|ationaoze
e,610
9,610
Average Assessed Value per Park Acre*
$201,087
$412,987
Inventory Acres Excluding Lagoon (Open vvater)~~
z*sz
zss.z
Land Value
$31,200700
$64079,000
Land Value per Capita (mundcd)
--------------------------------------------------------------------
g3,250
$6,670
mmranceva|ueFau|uies
$8,768380
$8,768380
Improvement Value per Capita (mvnded)
$910
$azo
Total Land and Improvement Value per Capita
$4,160
$7,580
No�s�°H�hincludesfor [ommunity(Che�zemok andKahTal) andParks(8bhopNay Park,8bhnp
Par�SatherParkFiekJEast, 8aherView, andl2thand Hancuok)'Lowbthemedianvalueperacpeofall availal"fle1andvaIueofor
Cummun�tKNmi0hborhood^5pecblUse (Goffl)'and Gardenparks,VaIuesforommntownparksnot avai1ab1eNotaU parkgtes
haveAuuessorkandvaluasduo toexemp|gatu!'
**0penVVateris34acnsperAssessor, 5inceandvaflumuforKahTaiin pau'did notdiscountvwgUands
Soui'ce:]effersonCounty Assessor, AssmciationofVVashinglonCities, 8ERK[onsulting,2D18
Exhibit 52.Future Investment 2D18-2Q36
2036 Population
12,165
12,165
Net ponu|a�onmcna,ezn1y'znss
_
�sss
2,555
Total Per Capita Investment Value
$4,160
$7,580
Future Total Value tobeInvested znzs'znas
$10,628800
$19,3e6,900
Annual Investment 2019-2036
$625,224
$1,139,229
6-Year Investment
$3,751,341
$6,835,376
Exhibit 53'Example Agency Annual Capital Investments
Acreage ofparks maintained: zsoo,fewer acres $z0000n
_
Median Capital Budget Investment All Agencies $801,450
Agencies serving Population per Square Mile: 1,501 TO 2,500 $1,074,350
xxaohZ0Z0 PORT TOvvm3smo2O2OPROS PLAN |TOmxY'SVISION, nJrwOmmOxx'SPARKS zz
CH. 5 1 DEMAND & NEED
Another functional measure is to ensure that maintenance resources
keep up with increased usage. This PROS Plan establishes an objective that the 2019
maintenance investment per capita of about $120 is carried forward as the population grows to
ensure budgeted resources increase as usage grows. The estimate includes the 2019 budgeted
expenditures plus the unmet maintenance needs divided by the 2019 population. Applying
$120 per capita to the City's 2036 population target would equal about $307,000, or 3 FTEs.
Exhibit 54. Maintenance Per Capita 2019
If measuring maintenance costs by acres the rate is $3,200 excluding the pool expenditures and
$6,100 including the pool expenditures, and both excluding the golf park acres since those are
not maintained by the City but rather the lessee. If the City added two parks of 10 acres each
(total 20 acres) to fill gaps in the system, that would equal a need for $66,000 per year
assuming the cost per acre excluding the pool. The amount of resources needed depends on
the acquisitions and there may be one or two increases rather than a gradual increase based on
population growth.
FiAiir aT ° Quantity Measures
In future Comprehensive Plan Updates, the City could consider focusing its acres -based LOS on
acres of parkland open to the public. This could include the golf park acres and exclude park
acres that are not providing a minimum level of service; the latter of which would require
defining. The City could also set goals with regard to park sites that meet the minimum park
standards in Chapter 6 Park & Recreation System Plan.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS ''
PLAN
TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
This Chapter provides minimum standards for parks, and concept plans for key parks. It
identifies the trail system classes and improvement standards. It also describes the City's
process for adding and modifying its suite of programs.
PARKS
t i iiiii iiiii iiin
Guiding principles have been established to steer the focus and the growth of the Port
Townsend parks and recreation system. These principles are to work in concert with the Vision
Themes, identified in Exhibit 30, and are incorporated throughout the PROS plan update to best
meet the needs of the community.
Address deferred maintenance and critical maintenance needs.
Develop park stewardship and master plans to guide investments.
Invest in existing parks to meet community desires (or demands, needs, etc.) and address
expected growth.
Achieve equitable access and distribution by filling in gaps in central and western Port
Townsend through improved trails, partnerships, and targeted acquisitions.
II fi � iiir i lllll of IIIII' rlllks
Parks are classified based on their function and service area. Classified parks are mapped on
Exhibit 55. Summary classifications are included in the textbox following the map. The primary
purpose and features of each classified park follow in Exhibit 56.
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Exhibit 55. Park Classifications Ma
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March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS i 11
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Cornirnuinvity Parks aire lairgeir paidks serving rniulllliple ineighborhoods diraMing resideints fiorn acirossthe
co irnimunilty as w6lHl as visftcrrs firuin iJhe county and beyond. Community ilairksoffeir ip�aces for
cornimunilty gatheirings, fairnHy activities, and active oir passive ein�oyivqrieint of faci�lhlties and airneinities.
Chietzemoka ilairk, anchors the east side of Poirli, lowinseind, Kah Taal) Lagoon liA"ve center, avid 35"" Stmet
Park thie WEwSt s�de. Sub dlasses Heiniffy If dhe pairk is iririore Active or `401 :U,vre fOCUsed.
i4eiglilmirtrood Parks pirmikle Ilocaall opportUirifties for firequenit and coinVEin6eint access to ba:ac
recireation activivies aind oppoirtuinities. Sevein pairks aire coinslldeire(-] Neighborhood Flairks aind seirve
resideinb!4l areas dhiirouglhiout thie comirrminifty. Neiglhboidhood Natuire flairks such as Sadheir IFbirest Flairk
pir(:wide Ipaaa~va~vive ein()yinrieint oppoirturdbes aind Nl6ghboirhood Acbv(�n Parks Ilillke Ih (:)Uby McGairiraiugh
Park r)irovrde inore Intense pilay, spoirts, and other active recreation opportunities, SUb- dlasses
dentiffy If the Iraaanlh is iinvoire Achive or NlabAre frKlAsed,
1)owritowiri IlParks serve the historic, downtown and uptowin areas and offeir ssateir, access, urlbain
(",orninunity gathering and sraediA eveinir space, and other recreation fealiillres at six ocations. They
rrvay Ipiroarlid e neghboidwmd Ihaaalrlk funcdons rou a esklents Ming in thic, uirbain coil :a ffielse Iraaarlkssairinay Ibe
refeirenced lirn otheir Coinnipircheinsive and Subziirea ilIlains as Urban il)(xket Parks, the 2014 CAassfficabion.
Gairden Parks piicwide [aindscape featiures thiat offer vrsuA rehef and hinrifted rsubhc access or
aiineinkies,, Fbur such pairks aire at einliries and afoing Iroaadwaays in the crty,, rhey aid." simailf 41 size and
rnay (nsnly Irnudannid e as vrsua� buffer ()ir Ikadna«mauullufliraanllud in enhainceiimsirit� U) thie urban oir otheir enviii-oirililleirit
dhat suirrounds llhicairn.
Spev:4l Use Parks aire focused typicaHly airouin(l as sirvglle Ipu.ulrlposc or uinique set of facflffies; Five such
parks aire hnd�luded in Floirt Tbwinseind ofiR�ihhng rndooir (`sr outdooir recireaboin oftrnin wWh ain acilkle
rrr(�,,atkm focus, T'lltids dlassffication can br" uwnbiimml \Adth offic!irs
I Ihe i4atuire sub classificatioin ideindfies paid<s whiere lii(:n pirihmairy Irauarradnnaes ilindlude inature aind wflldhfe
habiltat ("lonservation, passive recrealJoin such as tiraflls and viewp6nts, and educalionaand (zuhm14l
appii(xiation 61eirywinli.s. linteinskie areas of devebpiineint aire innited based on rhe onviii-onirrvent4l
chairacteirisOcs of the pairk-
I he Active sub classification ideiritifies parks that aire desllgned for freeluent aind coinveirfleint access t(°�)
re,creation ad',' rvilrie�& avid oprsorrunivies such as farnfly activities (picnic, gatheiring), actiw,, recreation
(pqay, sports, other'), and passive rc,,cireatbn (tra0s, open Uawn/turf. inforrna� aurvity), Fbescl! parks
woUd ailso contibAlte open srmice and einvrroinirnenta�l vahAes,
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Exhibit 56. Park Areas of Focus/Key Features
Community Park
35th Street Park— Nature/Active
X
X
Chetzemoka Park —Active
X
Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park — Nature
X
Neighborhood Park
12th & Hancock —Active
X
x
Baker View Park —Active (future)
X
Bishop Park — Nature
X
Bishop Play Park —Active
X
Bobby McGarraugh Park —Active
X
Sather Park (east) —Active (future)
X
Sather Park Forest (west) — Nature
X
Downtown Park
Adams Street Park
Bell Tower
Haller Fountain/Terrace Steps
Pope Marine/Jackson Park
X
Rotary Park
Tyler Street Stairs
Garden Park
City Entrance
Dahlia Park (T1)
Gateway Park (T2)
Speaker Corner
Special Use
Elmira Street Park (future)
Golf Park
X
Larry Scott Memorial Trail
X
Mountain View Park and Pool —
X X
Special Use/Neighborhood*
Seamus Sims Skateboard Park
X
*Includes a dog park.
Sources: City of Port Townsend, BERK 2019.
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X ?
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS .,,,.
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
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Each park should be improved over time to achieve minimum standards to meet the needs of
the community and to provide for consistent and sustainable management and maintenance.
Typically existing parks are zoned Existing Park and Open Space (P/OS(A)). The "district has
been applied to existing city, county, and state-owned parks, recreation areas, and city -owned
or controlled lands which provide valuable natural and open space functions." In addition to the
PROS Plan classifications and minimum standards, the City's zoning standards would apply
including allowable uses, bulk, and dimensional standards.
Community Parks are larger parks providing a variety of major recreation facilities, open space,
and/or recreation programming, serve multiple neighborhoods, and are generally treated as a
destination for visitors. These parks also tend to offer accommodations and infrastructure for
community events. Community Parks often reflect a shared community identity, and offer
flexibility across recreation and programming types throughout the year. Their size and range of
offerings attract visitors and neighbors who may travel further distances and stay longer
periods of time requiring more allowance and provisions for parking, seating, restrooms and
family support amenities. Sub -classes identify if the park is more Active or Nature focused.
Exhibit 57. Community Parks
Parks in this category also often have unique or identifying characteristics further described as:
Established in 1904 this park sits on a gently sloped hillside overlooking
Admiralty Inlet. It provides a highly manicured site with unique gardens, multiple play areas,
family picnic facilities, and community gathering spaces including a gazebo and a vast
lawn/natural amphitheater where cultural events are held.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS .,
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
The lagoon is a natural area associated with marsh, wetlands, and
grasslands and provides nesting, feeding, and breeding habitat for birds, ducks and other
wildlife. The area is set aside for preservation of natural resources and open space to serve
wildlife habitat and compatible passive recreation uses.
This park currently offers passive unimproved trails. Its future uses are
meant to be further defined through a park master plan. Early concepts in this PROS Plan
emphasize trails and passive elements. Small areas for family activities and sport courts are
suggested.
In the Port Townsend Collection:
Community Active: Chetzemoka Park
Community Nature: Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park
Community Nature/Active To Be Determined: 35th Street Park
Minimum Size: 10 acres+.
Comm Phi Vie .Acry"WE PARm
.....................................................................................................................................................
Key features might include: Family Activities (Picnic, Gathering), Passive Recreation (Trails,
Open Lawn/Turf, Informal Activity), Water Access, Active Recreation (Play, Sports, Other).
Often sought after for: Outdoor Recreation, Open Space/ Habitat Preservation.
At a minimum the parks should aim to provide everything neighborhood -active parks do plus:
Community gathering and event space
Infrastructure for gathering and events (e.g. audio, lighting etc.)
Interpretive signage
Off-street parking, adequate but conservative
Pathways between elements and to safely enter and exit the park as well as pathways to
navigate around the property (e.g. loop path)
Permanent restroom facilities (universal design, gender equity, and family
accommodations)
Play equipment, multi -age and ability levels
Shelters that can accommodate numerous and/or larger groups
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Where possible, and appropriate in their contexts, parks falling into this typology should
consider everything in neighborhood -active parks as well as:
Conservancy and nature park protections
Designated sports courts and fields (and subsequent lighting) and skate park/infrastructure
in Community -Active parks
Designated dog areas (on and off -leash) in Community -Active parks
More substantive plantings including groundcovers, understory and canopy, with a focus on
native species and no invasive species
Gardens, arboretums, food forests
Storage and maintenance buildings
Use of green stormwater infrastructure approaches
Because of the intent and goals for community parks they should limit where appropriate:
Extensive off-street parking
Threats to flexible multi -use activities and landscaped, natural or habitat areas
Sports complexes or regional -scale facilities (see Special Use)
Comilauirry NI ["LIRE PARK
..........................................................................................................................................................
Often sought after for: natural and or cultural environment, passive recreation, nature and
wildlife habitat.
At a minimum the parks should aim to provide:
Community gathering space appropriate to site conditions and to support environmental or
cultural education
Picnic shelters or picnic furnishings that can accommodate groups in appropriately focused
site locations
Interpretive signage with a preference for low -intrusion Interpretive or educational facilities
Off-street parking, adequate but conservative to reduce impervious areas and development
footprints
Pathways between elements and to safely enter and exit the park as well as pathways to
navigate around the property (e.g. loop path)
Permanent restroom facilities (universal design, gender equity, and family
accommodations) where feasible
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Limits on the amenities provided to the numbers and types of visitors the area can
accommodate while retaining its resource value, natural character, and the intended level
of solitude
Natural character and restoration and maintenance as needed to ensure health and
longevity
Supportive of solitude and passive or quiet experiences and recreation
Trails, soft -surface or permeable materials
Where possible, and appropriate in their contexts, parks falling into this sub -typology should
consider:
Trash receptacles, and leash and scoop dispensers, where applicable
Viewpoints or viewing blinds
Restoration of the natural resource values of the site
Use of green stormwater infrastructure approaches
Because of the intent and goals for conservation in community nature parks they should limit:
Turf areas
Exotic plantings
Sources of light and glare that may interfere with the natural, open space, and habitat
character of the park.
Neighborhood Parks are intended for frequent and convenient access to basic recreation
activities and opportunities. They typically serve neighborhoods within walking distance of a
to % mile. These parks best serve nearby residents and visitors in less formal or organized
recreation and leisure. Neighborhood Parks provide open space values. They are less suited for
longer stays, heavily programmed activities, or larger rental or permit -required spaces. These
parks prioritize open space over parking and encourage visitation through pedestrian and bike
networks. Sub -classes identify if the park is more Active or Nature focused.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS �' :
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Exhibit 58. Neighborhood Parks
Minimum Size: Typically 1-5 acres in size.
In the Port Townsend Collection:
Neighborhood Active: Bobby McGarraugh Park, Baker View Park, Bishop Play Park, Sather
Park (east), 13th & Hancock
Neighborhood Nature: Bishop Park, Sather Park Forest (west) Aarrive PAIRK
Key Features might include: Family Activities (Picnic, Gathering), Passive Recreation (Trails,
Open Lawn/Turf, Informal Activity), Active Recreation (Play, Sports, Other).
Often sought after for: Outdoor Recreation, Open Space/ Habitat Preservation, Ornamental/
Greenspace Buffer.
At a minimum the parks should aim to provide:
Open and accessible landscape for unstructured activity, play, and respite
Basic maintenance, care and landscape improvements
Pathways between elements and to safely enter and exit the park
Simple seating where appropriate and accommodating
Universal play equipment
Where possible, and appropriate in their contexts, parks falling into this typology should
consider:
Conservancy and nature park protections
Natural or low -intervention areas and green space
Community gardens or food forest
Irrigation
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS ;
CH. 6 l PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Seating, shelters, tables and BBQs
Sports and fitness accommodations, surfacing and equipment
Open playfields
Restrooms permanent or portable, only where/when needed (in peak times)
Use of green stormwater infrastructure approaches
Because of the intent and goals for neighborhood parks they should limit where appropriate:
Off street parking
Horticultural programs and plantings that do not have a committed maintenance program
orsponsor
Specialized maintenance heavy equipment and amenities, especially those requiring staff
supervision
Designated dog parks
IN111MG11BOR1400D hilAllll IRE PARK
Often sought after for: natural and or cultural environment, passive recreation, nature and
wildlife habitat.
At a minimum the parks should aim to provide:
Limits on the amenities provided to the numbers and types of visitors the area can
accommodate while retaining its resource value, natural character, and the intended level
of solitude
Natural character and restoration and maintenance as needed to ensure health and
longevity
Supportive of solitude and passive or quiet experiences and recreation
Trails, soft -surface or permeable materials
Low -intrusion Interpretive or educational facilities
Where possible, and appropriate in their contexts, parks falling into this sub -typology should
consider:
Trash receptacles, and leash and scoop dispensers, where applicable
Viewpoints or viewing blinds
Restoration of the natural resource values of the site
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN l TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Use of green stormwater infrastructure approaches
Because of the intent and goals for conservation in neighborhood nature parks they should
limit:
Turf areas
Exotic plantings
Sources of light and glare that may interfere with the natural, open space, and habitat
character of the park.
D o w n tomin Par'h
Downtown Parks are located in the downtown/uptown urban core and provide plazas and
urban community gathering and special event spaces, waterfront or shoreline access, art and
cultural facilities, or picnic or other passive enjoyment facilities. In some instances, Downtown
Parks serve the needs met by neighborhood parks for residents living in the urban core. These
parks may be referenced in other Comprehensive and Subarea Plans as Urban Pocket Parks, the
2014 Classification.
Exhibit 59. Downtown Parks
In the Port Townsend Collection: Adams Street Park, Bell Tower, Haller Fountain/Terrace Steps,
Pope Marine Park, Jackson Tidal Park, Rotary Park, Tyler Street Stairs.
Key features might include: Water Access, Family Activities (Picnic, Gathering), Passive
Recreation (Trails, Open Lawn, Informal Activity).
Often sought after for: Outdoor Recreation, Ornamental/ Greenspace Buffer or Heritage
Preservation.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
At a minimum the parks should aim to provide:
Spaces for events and gathering activities
Green spaces and plantings
Seating
Lighting and electricity (as appropriate and feasible)
Where possible, and appropriate in their contexts, parks falling into this typology should
consider everything in neighborhood parks as well as:
Expanded utilities, shelters and seating for programming, gathering and permitted events
A horticultural program to include healthy and maintained landscaping (understory and
canopy) and hangings/boxes with a focus on native plants and no invasive plant species
Interpretive signage
Use of green stormwater infrastructure approaches
Because of the intent and goals for landscape parks they should limit where appropriate:
Off-street parking is not recommended
Garden Parks include medians, gateways, rights of way, and small greenspaces, with
ornamental plantings, trees and sometimes limited amenities such as a bench or interpretive
signage. Garden Parks address limited, isolated, or unique recreation or open space needs. The
parks usually do not serve contexts much beyond their immediate vicinity and may or may not
include green space or plantings. Garden Parks may include park benches, or streetscape
buffers. They are small in size and may only provide a visual buffer or beautification
enhancement to the urban or other environment that surrounds them.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Exhibit 60. Garden (Landscape) Parks
In the Port Townsend Collection: City Entrance, Dahlia Park (Triangle 1), Speakers Corner at
Kearney/Sims Way, Gateway Park (Triangle II).
Key features might include: Horticultural Programming, Heritage Preservation, Passive
Recreation Often sought after for: Ornamental/ Greenspace Buffer.
Where possible, and appropriate in their contexts, parks falling into this typology should
consider:
Accessible pedestrian safety and respite amenities
Buffers from vehicular activity
Access to utilities and irrigation as appropriate, useful and safe
Community gardens or food forests
Encourage use of native plants that attract wildlife
Use of green stormwater infrastructure approaches
Because of the intent and goals for landscape parks they should limit where appropriate:
Off-street parking is not recommended
Special Use Parks are designed for specialized or single -purpose recreation activities. These
purposes may include golf parks, marinas, sport complexes, community and aquatic centers,
historical areas, nature centers, conservatories, amphitheaters, or other purposes. These parks
typically offer a narrower range of recreation uses or amenities. Special Use Parks may carry a
double classification.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Exhibit 61. Special Use Parks
In the Port Townsend Collection:
Special Use: Golf Park, Larry Scott Memorial Trail, Seamus Sims Skateboard Park,
Elmira Street Viewpoint Park
Special Use/Neighborhood: Mountain View Park and Pool
Key features might include: Passive Recreation (Trails, Open Lawn, Informal Activity), Active
Recreation (Play, Sports, Other).
Often sought after for: Outdoor Recreation, Indoor Recreation.
Consider use of green stormwater infrastructure approaches.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Parks representing different landscapes, locations, and classifications were studied conceptually
for a range of potential parks uses. Desired features and concepts were reviewed at Vision and
System Workshops in fall 2019 to gain public input. Concepts for the following parks are
described on the following pages:
Chetzemoka Park
Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park
35th Street Park
Sather Park
Bobby McGarraugh Park
Elements of the park concepts vary by park as listed in Exhibit 62. It is important to note that
these are concept ideas for potential future park improvement and that, at the time of
development, master planning to a greater detail would occur when appropriate and be the
subject of more focused public input and may be subject to review under the State
Environmental Policy Act, the City of Port Townsend Critical Areas Ordinance and/or Shoreline
Master Program. Future designs may depart from the concept plans in this document.
Exhibit 62. Key Features of Park Concept Plans
Chetzemoka Park
X
X
X
X X
X X
Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park
X
X
X
X X
351h Street Park
X
X
X
X X
Bobby McGarraugh Park
X
X
X
X
X X
Sather Park
X
X
x
x X
X x
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March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Essential features of Chetzemoka Park are retained in the Concept Plan including open lawns
offering passive enjoyment of views and space for cultural events, pathways to the water,
gardens, picnic facilities, play areas, dog park, restrooms, and parking. Recognizing the age and
condition of facilities and enhancement of site assets, improvements are proposed to stabilize
the shoreline, rebuild picnic and restroom structures, expand play offerings, add ADA access,
open views, and more. Major features of the concept include:
Shoreline: Increased vegetative buffer. Improve shoreline access (ADA).
Community Space: Explore future of existing Golden Age building including investment,
demolition, or other potential park use. Develop adjacent open plaza space. On the south,
formalize amphitheater space.
Play: Nature play area. Play trail and rain garden. Accessible play area.
Informal Space and Picnic Facilities: Open lawns. Picnic areas. Rehabilitated kitchen shelter.
Paths and Gardens: Improved ADA access throughout. Native forest and plantings.
Cascading showcase garden.
Access and Parking: Open Views at Entrances. Green infrastructure for Parking.
Restrooms: Rehabilitated restroom.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Exhibit 63. Chetzemoka Park Concept
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March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park is and will remain a park where residents and visitors can connect
with nature. Passive trails and viewing areas and picnic facilities allow for public access and use
in focused areas. The park concept plan includes:
Entries: Improved entrances and sight lines into park.
Informal Space and Picnic: Open Lawns. Bathroom Converted into Picnic Shelter.'
Additional Picnic Shelter and equipment storage and irrigation access.
Trails and Views: ADA accessible Loop Trail With Interpretive Signs. Informal Trails.
Other: Improved Hydraulic Connection Between Ponds.
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March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS �
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Exhibit 64. Kah Tai Lagoon Park Concept
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March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
35"" Street Park,
35th Street Park today has informal trails but is otherwise largely treed and in a natural state.
The park concept plan retains the wooded character, wetlands, habitat, and natural drainage of
the site and adds a network of formal and informal trails including fitness and play stations. A
small focused area of play, picnic, and sports courts for multi -uses (e.g. tennis, pickleball,
basketball) is provided on the north, served by on -street parking.
Park concept features include:
Informal Spaces and Landscaping: Native forest — retain particularly specimen trees. Some
interspersed forest play areas. Mowable prairie.
Trails: ADA loop trail and informal trail connections. Connection to surrounding trails.
Play: Loop trail with play and fitness nodes. Forest play area.
Sport Courts: Multi use sport courts.
Picnic and Seating: Picnic Shelter and Tables. Observation Seating. Benches.
Access and Parking: Improved Gateway Entrance retaining specimen trees. Parking along
the Street. ADA Parking.
Restroom: Restroom provided in the active recreation area.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Exhibit 65. 35 th Street Park Concept
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March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Bobby McGarrmigh
Bobby McGarraugh Park is a neighborhood park with traditional swings and a playground. The
park concept plan enhances its central use as an active play space adding a wider variety of
play, adventure, and fitness features and increasing picnic facilities.
Play and Fitness: Inclusive play area, splash pad, adventure play trail, hillside slide, rock
climbing wall, and fitness area.
Informal Space and Picnic: Open lawn, ADA picnic shelters, and tables.
Trails and Fitness: Adventure Play Trail.
Access and Parking: Improved entrance with signs. Improved access for pedestrians and
bicyclists.
Landscaping: Native forest improvements avoid erosion.
Restroom: Moved and improved restroom.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Exhibit 66. Bobby McGarraugh Park Concept
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March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
,Sather Park
Sather Park consists of two parts — an eastern passive manicured open lawn area with a hedge
and a western wooded area with trails. The park concept retains the passive, wooded character
of the Sather Park Forest on the west, while making selected enhancements of its entrance, and
habitat and forest ecology. Existing trails would be retained and a ADA loop trail added. An
outdoor classroom and nature play area would also be added.
Sather Park East would have a focus on family activities. A loop path, picnic area, and play area
are envisioned to be added. It would retain a buffer but with native species and ornamental
plantings. An open lawn allows for informal uses.
.................................
Open and improved entrance
Improve habitat & forest ecology
ADA Loop Trail and connection to informal trails
Nature play nodes
Forest gathering space
Wayfinding elements
E-6.S
Open and improved entrance
Native buffer
Loop Path
Ornamental Plantings
Picnic Areas
Play Area
Open Lawn
Wayfinding elements
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Exhibit 67. Sather Park Concept
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March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS "`",
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Hancock Street Park
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March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS ';'
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
SPECIAL USE FACILITIES
t uiii ° 'iiiii iiii View Fillool
Port Townsend has successfully operated Mountain View Pool since 1995, increasing its use and
serving residents of all ages as indicated in Exhibit 35. The pool was designed and constructed
in 1963 for use by middle school students and now provides for swimming lessons, swimming
practices, aquatic classes, and drop -in use. Its size and shape is not designed for competitive
use. While a maintenance bond has been implemented to make necessary repairs to allow pool
use to continue, the pool is beyond its useful life and capital improvements are needed.
Community engagement results in Chapter 4 Community Profile & Engagement and Appendix B
illustrated support for investing in the pool as an important form of indoor recreation:
Most Vision survey respondents agreed strongly or very strongly that Port Townsend
should:
Make capital investments (e.g. larger multilane lap pool; children's water slides and play
area; tot pool; sauna and hot tub) to improve Mountain View Pool and make it more
attractive for public use
Explore options to partner with other public agencies and/or private businesses to make
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
the needed capital investments and operate the pool
Among a range of possible investments, an aquatic center received the second highest
number of responses and the highest dollar share among Vision survey respondents
Community Health surveys indicated access to indoor recreation was important for year
round fitness
The City is currently engaged in a multi -agency discussion about the development of a new, full -
service YMCA that would include an updated and more modern aquatic center to replace
Mountain View Pool. Proposed funding mechanisms for the project include a Metropolitan Park
District. Given this process has been underway for a number of years, this PROS Plan was not
purposed with exploring the viability of the proposed YMCA but, rather, to focus more
exclusively on the other components of the City's parks and recreation system so decisions
regarding funding options, partnerships, facilities, and recreation programming could be made
more holistically. Additional public involvement and elected official discussions about Mountain
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
View Pool and future investments in city parks and recreation are forthcoming and should be
informed in part by this PROS Plan.
Ilf iiii Townsend GdII[ 1 ) aiiidlll
The City currently manages the golf park by contracting operations to a private business. In
advance of this contract expiring on December 31, 2023, the City hired Groundswell
Architecture to conduct a robust community process to assist City Council to decide the future
of the Golf Park. Similar to the situation with Mountain View Pool and the YMCA proposal, this
PROS Plan was not purposed with determining the future of the golf park but,
rather, providing information about the City's other parks and recreation assets and operations
so that decisions could be made that are more fully informed. The City Council decided to sign an operating
lease with the Friends of the Port Townsend Golf Park to operate the 9-hole course but also to expand use of the
58.9 acres.
PROS Plan community engagement results showed limited use of the Port Townsend Golf
Course and interest in golf in general, similar to declining national trends. Most Vision survey
respondents do not have an opinion on the operation, investment or use of the golf course. For
those who do have an opinion, most do not want to make capital investments, set a cost
recovery policy, or explore partnership options. For those with an opinion, most do not want
the City to stop operating the golf course, but others are supportive of exploring alternative
options.
While the future and alternative uses of the golf course were not directly sought, ideas and
thoughts were nonetheless shared during the Vision and System Plan outreach events;
comments included:
Continuing to operate the golf course for golf
Allowing multiple recreation uses on the property (e.g. frisbee golf, foot golf) or other active
sports uses that could be accomplished while still having golf on certain days
Repurposing to more active sports and managing as a complex with Mountain View,
especially if active sports are not feasible on other properties like 35th
Converting it to a nature park
Surplusing for nonpark uses
In December of 2023, the City Council opted to expand the use of the golf course, calling in the Port
Townsend Golf Park, and adding an inclusive playground as shown below.
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CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS '
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
TRAILS
Through the Healthy Community Design Initiative, the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention identified the ways in which park and especially trail access could impact overall
health in youth and adults alike. Trails, as they suggest, should be within walking distance of
homes with safe access and connections points to enter the system. Trails should also support a
thorough non -motorized system of sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike paths accessible to the
areas people live, work, and play. A trail network serves as a linear park system linking parks,
civic spaces, neighborhoods, and ultimately communities together. Trails should be designed
and maintained in a way that protects the resource, provides a degree of universal access and
"device" friendliness, and encourages maximum usage. Devices would include strollers,
ambulation aids like walkers or canes, or wheelchair navigability where feasible and safe.
1 I'iiiii iiir iirdlll
Trails are designed and maintained based on the role they serve in the overall connected
system and the usage they receive. Port Townsend's Non -Motorized Transportation Plan (1998,
2011, 2014) addresses pedestrian and bicycle facilities. For the purposes of this PROS Plan, a
focus is on off -roadway elements given the Parks Recreation and Community Services
Department's role in maintaining the City's network of all unpaved trails. The Non -Motorized
Transportation Plan identifies the following facility types:
Major Streets with Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities: Arterial and collector streets are main
thoroughfares that will ultimately include pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
Neighborhood Connectors: Neighborhood connectors are intended to provide routes across
town to the identified destinations and links between and within neighborhoods.
Neighborhood connectors may be sidewalks or pathways adjacent to streets or pathways
on alignments separate from streets, within unopened street rights -of -way. Pathways will
generally be shared facilities serving walkers and bicyclists.
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CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Shortcuts: Shortcuts are typically one -block pathways on unopened rights -of -way that
connect between streets. They are often unimproved, but are envisioned to be signed and
cleared.
Multi -Use Trail: The multi -use trail is a wide, arterial trail generally separated from city
streets. Its purpose is to provide non -motorists the greatest variety of experience and the
least amount of conflict with motorized traffic. It is routed, wherever possible, through
parks and potential open spaces, adjacent to drainage corridors, and along existing trails
and unopened street rights -of -way. It is located adjacent to streets in as few places as
possible, and only where it is necessary to provide continuity. The multi -use loop is routed
on slopes with moderate grades to accommodate a wide range of users. It will serve all user
groups and will accommodate bicyclists, pedestrians, and in some cases equestrians.
IA4Idkway Systeali
The Non -Motorized Transportation Plan proposes a Walkway System with the following key
elements:
A Multi -Use Trail, a unifying loop that circumnavigates the city,
A Portage Trail between Port Townsend Bay and the Strait of Juan de Fuca connecting the
County and Larry Scott Memorial Park with the Park -and -Ride, shopping areas, the Boat
Haven, the golf park, schools, Chinese Gardens and Fort Worden State Park
The Waterwalk, a coordinated set of connected pathways, sidewalks, passageways between
buildings and shoreline access points along Port Townsend's Urban Waterfront
Primary and secondary Neighborhood Connectors which function as major and minor
collectors for pedestrians
Off-street pathway system providing: more direct connections, greater separation from
traffic, and a more pleasant walking experience
Sidewalks and Pedestrian Pathways on Local Streets
Short-cuts, such as formalizing existing short cuts and paths such as through block
connections
The concept of a loop trail is highly supported in the Community Engagement results. The City's
Non -Motorized Transportation Plan conceptually identifies an interconnected "loop and spoke"
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
pattern with Larry Scott Trail on the south, and connecting trails looping to the east, north, and
west. See Exhibit 68.
Exhibit 68. Port Townsend Loop Trail
`>rai,aIT(:. Pram; IOvAIMS(� siiid "N998", updated tI a uf"ht 201ZL
Some priority projects have been identified in the current Non -Motorized Transportation Plan
within the overall plan conceptual framework. These include:
Multi -use Trail from Fort Worden to the southwest to Discovery Road
Trail from W Street (Fort Worden) south and west along Cherry Street and from W Street
south and east along Jackson Street
Trail east -west along Lawrence Street on the east side of town and a trail east -west along
Hastings Avenue on the west
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Trails along Discovery Road
Non -motorized facilities, including trail and a passage under Sims Way
Some of these connections were identified in the public input for the PROS Plan Update. Exhibit
43.
The current Non -motorized Transportation Plan identifies multi -use trails with pedestrians and
bikes, neighborhood connectors on local streets with sidewalks or on trails in unopened rights
of way, major streets with bike lanes and sidewalks, and short cuts. Standard details are shown
in Exhibit 69and Exhibit 70.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Exhibit 69. Standard Detail - Multi Use Trail
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2% Crcns sk)pe or vown reepAyed fov dr6nage
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(1) CURS WS' ARE REQUIRED WHERE TRAILS MEET STRELEIS
(2) NE9,IHOORR000 CONNEZrOk STANDARDS MAY BE USET) FOR A MULTI -USE MAR AS AN WERN MEASURE.
(a) 16RXL SUBCRADI SHOULD BE GVWX.F.) AND CLEARED OF VEGETAT(ON
(4) roxLAYOW AND DESIGN SHOULD WHWE, DAMAGE M TWES, AND R00P.,
(5) BARN NAZE DMURBANCES 10 SURROUNDING VECLTAIION AND soli, DURING c0N',rTRUC'T*N
(6) ALL WETURBED MEAS ARE 10 BE REMOOED AND REJ:LM1E1G
(7) MAWTAN NAWRA, DRAINAGE PIAMERNS WITH USE OF CULWRIS WHERE NECESSARY
(8) AVOID STEEP WOOES AND CWW SLVES
(9) "ML FIU. 40 BASE SHOULD C-ONIAN Ko mwc IoAERX
(10) 20 .FL)Cff PAVED APRON REWIRED MIEN AN UNPAVED rRm CONNECIS TO A PAWIT 's'rREF
(II) MNAGE T1,eT WDWkMS TRAFFIC CONMOL DWANCES AND DRECT04S SHOlAl) BE PLACED AT STREP INTERSECIN)NS
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March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS — :
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Exhibit 70. Standard Detail — Neighborhood Connector and Undeveloped Shortcut
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(1) CURB CU'll, ARE REQUIRED WHERE TITNUS MErSIREE-rS
(2) THE UNDEVELOPED SHOKI'CLI7 STANDARD MAY BE USE) FOR NILIGHBORHOOD CONNECIORS AS AN lNrLRUM wASURC!
(3) IRAA %HiGRADE SHOULD BE GRADED AND CUARED OF VEGEIAIION!
(4i iRNI !AYOUT AND DEMGN SHOWD MINIMIZE DAMAGE 10 rRf:[% AND ROCHS (5 ) IAINIMiZE D6TURBANCE'S TO SURROUNDiNG VETOATION AND SOIL DUFONC 4dONSIRUC110N
(6) M1, UXIURSED AREAS ARE 10 K REGRADED AND REPLANIFI)
(7) MNNIAN NArUM )PANAGE RATrERNS WnUSE OF CULVERn Y01ERE 19ECESSARY
(8) AV00 STEEP GRADES AJ40 (N'tOSS SLOPES
19) TRAIL FU AND BASE SHOULD CONTATN NO ORGANIC MAFEWN
(10) 20- FO(J PAVED APRON REQUIRED WHEN AN UNPAV0 "kMl CONNECTS TO PAVED 5TREL11
('II) StGNAGE IKMC0N0 A PUBUC PAITI SHOULD BE PIKED AT SPREEI` INTERSECTIONS
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March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
PROGRAMS
Goal 4, in 0 Goals & Policies provides guiding principles for Port Townsend's program areas of
focus and evaluation. Key concepts include:
Provide comprehensive, enriching, and affordable programs
Consider community needs, interests, and trends
Serve as many persons as possible
Accommodate a citizenry diverse in age, interests, income levels, and abilities
Gap areas where the City could provide services or partner with other entities include:
Publicly provided childcare, daycare, or afterschool programs
Senior -specific or focused programming
Cultural or educational classes or courses
Environmental/wilderness programming or other non -sporting outdoor activities
Whether the City continues to focus on aquatic programs or whether it broadens its offerings to
fill gaps, ensuring programs fit the community over time is important.
Through program evaluation, the City can determine which programs to add, increase, or
reduce. See Exhibit 71. The City can regularly review community needs, its best role, available
resources or partners, and develop programs.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 6 1 PARK & RECREATION SYSTEM PLAN
Exhibit 71. Recreation Program Cycle
>ourco,, (f arit,J�.s, 2008), 1'1 RKt 20'153
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
PLAN
TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
This Chapter provides an evaluation of current and potential funding options for operations and
capital revenue and a capital facilities plan.
OPERATIONS AND CAPITAL FUNDING
This PROS Plan includes a financial situation assessment that:
Analyzes the City's historic and projected revenues and expenditures to estimate expected
available resources; and
Identifies the City's potential funding and partnership options, based on current policies and
potential new policies, to address any anticipated future funding gaps.
arid F1111rod Illy liiiinand Capital
As public goods, both City parks and City recreation services are largely supported by public
monies, similar to the vast majority of municipalities across Washington State. Specifically, the
City has primarily funded its parks and recreation services through the Community Services
Fund, which includes revenues from property taxes, sales taxes, utility taxes, and transfers from
the General Fund.
The City also generates revenues directly from providing parks and recreation services, such as
user and rental fees, which can directly offset a portion of parks and recreation expenditures.
The portion of parks and recreation expenditures that the City has been able to recover from
direct revenues has grown from around 17% in 2009 to 27% in 2019.
Nevertheless, going forward, parks and recreation cost recovery rates are projected to decline
as expenditures are expected to grow at a faster rate than direct revenues. As a result, the
share of parks and recreation direct revenue are expected to decrease from 27% in 2019 to 20%
in 2036. The additional funding is expected to come from the Community Services Fund, which
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
is projected to increase proportionally as direct revenues decline —from 73% in 2019 to 80% in
2036. See Exhibit 72 for actual and projected parks and recreation revenues broken down by
source and Exhibit 73 for actual and projected parks and recreation expenditures compared to
parks and recreation direct revenues.
Exhibit 72. Historic and Projected Parks and Recreation Revenues, 2009 to 2036 (Nominal$)
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total C rririnluliity `,uwr cl .r 1 1,11 id rovvrll.wss
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
Exhibit 73. Historic and Projected Parks and Recreation Cost Recovery, 2009 to 2036 (Nominal$)
2.5
ActualiProjections
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As the Community Services Fund also funds other City services, demand for resources is
competitive and may be constrained in the future. To mitigate the risk of constrained resources
on delivering parks and recreation services, the City should identify and pursue alternative
parks and recreation funding sources.
This section lays out several options for the City to increase funding for parks and recreation,
both with funding sources that are already being used by the City, albeit for other purposes,
and with funding sources that could potentially be available to the City.
A list of the options appears below. Following that, evaluation criteria and a matrix provide an
assessment of magnitude, feasibility, and flexibility.
The City of Port Townsend has a variety of options already available for increasing its parks and
recreation revenues. Some notable options include:
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
Real Estate Excise Tax. A real estate excise tax (REET) is levied on all real estate sales measured
by the full selling price, including the amount of any liens, mortgages, and other debts given to
secure the purchase. All cities may levy 0.25% of the full sale price of real estate (described as
"the first quarter percent of the real estate excise tax" or "REET 1"). Cities that are planning
under Growth Management Act (GMA) have the authority to levy a second quarter percent tax
(REET 2). Because this funding may be used for different types of capital and is not restricted to
parks only, it is up to the discretion of each jurisdiction as to how they choose to spend these
funds. However, it is important to note that REET is restricted to capital uses and cannot be
used for operations.
Since REET is based on the total value of real estate transactions in a given year, the amount of
REET revenues a city or county receives can vary substantially from year to year based on the
normal fluctuations in the real estate market. During years when the real estate market is
active, revenues are higher, and during softer real estate markets, revenues are lower.
The City already collects REET 1 and REET 2 revenues, however, neither of these revenue
sources are currently used to fund parks and recreation capital projects. REET revenues in the
City are currently primarily allocated for debt service.
Motor Vehicle Fuel Tax. As of July 1, 2016, the State levies 49.4 cents per gallon on motor
vehicle fuel under RCW 82.36.025; a portion of the collected tax is distributed to cities. In 2018,
Port Townsend received $207,986 of statewide MVFT revenues.
The City is required by RCW 47.30.050 to spend a minimum of 0.42% of MVFT receipts on paths
and trails (unless that amount is $500 or less). In 2018, receipts were equal to a minimum of
$874 of MVFT funds spent on paths and trails.
Utility Business Tax. Any city may impose a business and occupation tax on the gross operating
revenues of public or private utilities providing services within city boundaries and/or upon the
City's own municipal utilities. Revenues collected from utility business taxes are unrestricted
and may be used for any lawful governmental purpose. The City uses utility business taxes to
fund parks and recreation operations through the Community Services Fund.
As of 2019, Port Townsend currently levies a rate of 22% on the City's water, stormwater, and
sewer utilities. Increasing the rate levied on these utilities would likely be politically difficult
given that the rates are already relatively high.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
Accessing Property Tax Banked Capacity. With the annexation of the City into the Jefferson
Fire Protection District No. 1, the amount of property tax levied that currently pays for fire
services — around $908,000 annually — will remain as property tax capacity that can be used for
streets, parks, contributions to the City's housing trust fund, or utility tax relief.
City Council passed Resolution 18-062 which limits its authority to levy this banked capacity
over a period of 5 years from 2019-2023. The City will not assess any of the banked capacity in
2020 and the City can restore banked capacity at a rate not to exceed 33% per each year
starting in 2021. Given $908,000 in banked capacity, this would allow an increasing maximum
levy amount as shown in Exhibit 74.
Specific to parks and recreation, the use of the banked capacity is restricted to capital needs for
parks and trails between 2021-2023 but will be unrestricted in use beginning in 2024.
Exhibit 74. Maximum Levy Amount, 2021-2024 (Nominal $)
2021 $299,640
2022 $599,280
2023 $908,000
2024 $908,000
Sources: City of Port Townsend, 2019; BERK, 2019.
While these funds are available, the City has multiple competing needs that will also be eligible
for these monies.
The City could also pursue several revenues sources that are not currently imposed or received.
Options for additional revenues include:
State and Federal Competitive Grants. State and federal grant programs can provide some
funding from outside the region. These programs are extremely competitive; however, any
grant funding that could be made available would significantly improve the funding feasibility of
the 2020 PROS Plan Update, since these funds would reduce the amount needed from local
public sources. Many of these grants often require matching funds and are restricted for
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
acquisition or capital development. However, the City has been successful at obtaining grants in
the past and a variety of needs to align with funders.
Parks Impact Fees. The City of Port Townsend currently does not collect parks impact fees,
which are fees on development intended to support the infrastructure needs generated by that
growth. Rates would be determined through a rate study and consideration of system
improvements needed to support growth at desired levels of service.
Park impact fees can only be used for capital improvements aligning with the City's level of
service standards. Given the relatively small amount of growth anticipated in the City, the
expected revenues are less than $100,000 annually assuming similar existing rates in Sequim,
Gig Harbor, and Poulsbo. Additionally, impact fees require City Council action and can face
resistance from the development community.
Metropolitan Parks District. One of three types of parks/recreation districts in Washington,
Metropolitan Parks Districts (MPD) are authorized by Chapter 35.61 RCW and are quasi -
municipal corporations and independent taxing districts. MPDs "may be created for the
management, control, improvement, maintenance, and acquisition of parks, pathways,
boulevards, and recreational facilities" or also formed for a limited purpose that identifies
specific public parks and/or recreational facilities.
An MPD can include other jurisdictions through interlocal agreements and only portions of the
establishing entity or included jurisdictions. An MPD can be initiated through resolution or
initiative. As an independent taxing district, MPDs have two regular property tax levies available
— 1) $0.50 per $1,000 assessed value and 2) $0.25 per $1,000 assessed value. These are
considered as a single levy, up to $0.75, for the purposes of the 1% annual levy limit. An
important note is that MPDs are junior taxing districts, meaning that if localities approach the
local district taxing limit of $5.90 per $1,000 of assessed value, the MPD will be lower on the list
of collections and could receive less or even no funding.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
The City has jointly considered an MPD
with Jefferson County in the past.
Resulting from the work of the
Exploratory Regional Parks and
Recreation Committee in 2011, the
Metropolitan Park District Steering
Committee worked in 2013 to evaluate
the feasibility of forming an MPD
including the City and eastern portion of
Jefferson County. The City and Jefferson
County passed resolutions in 2013 to
accept the Steering Committee's
recommendation that an MPD was not
feasible.
The YMCA of Jefferson County branch has
been exploring the option of a purpose -
specific limited MPD to construct and
operate a replacement facility to
Mountain View Pool. Examples of
purpose -specific and general MPDs are
included in the two inserts.
Given the 2018 assessed values, a City -
only MPD could have raised a maximum
of $1.1 million and a combined City and
Eastern Jefferson County MPD could have
raised a maximum of $3.5 million. Note
that these values are approximate and
meant for illustration of magnitude only;
there are two existing parks and
recreation districts within the Eastern
Jefferson County area. The assessed value
for these existing districts were removed
from the overall East Jefferson County area approximately weighted by population distribution.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
Property Tax Levy Lid Lift. A property tax levy lid lift occurs when a taxing jurisdiction with a tax
rate less than its statutory maximum rate asks voters to increase the property tax rate to an
amount equal to or less than the statutory maximum rate, effectively lifting the lid on the levy
rate. The taxing jurisdiction then collects more revenues because of the higher levy rate. These
revenues can be unrestricted or restricted depending on the stated purpose in authorizing the
ballot measure. The City could increase property taxes in the City to fund parks and recreation
services or capital projects through a voted levy lid lift.
Dedicated Parks Property Tax Levy Lid Lift. While the City does not currently have any banked
property tax capacity, the City could fund parks and recreation capital projects through a voted
parks levy lid lift. However, the City does have an unusual situational banked capacity resulting
from annexation of fire services, described beginning on page 115.
The City manages long-term debt in a way that utilizes its credit to optimize City services while
balancing overall debt levels and annual debt service obligations. Long-term debt may be used
for capital acquisitions and construction but may not be used to fund operating expenses, and it
should be structured in a way that debt payments do not exceed the expected useful life of the
financed project.
The City can levy additional debt through two main financing tools:
Limited Tax General Obligation (LTGO) Bonds. Councilmanic bonds that must be repaid from
existing resources, as there is no dedicated source of new revenue for debt service. These
bonds can be issued by the City Council without going out to residents for a public vote. Cities
are limited to an indebtedness amount of 1.5% of assessed value for LTGO bonds.
Unlimited Tax General Obligation (UTGO) Bonds. Voted bonds that must be approved by a
vote of the City's residents and are paid off by a new city property tax levy. This type of bond
issue is usually reserved for municipal improvements that are of general benefit to the public,
such as arterial streets, bridges, lighting, municipal buildings, firefighting equipment, and parks.
There is no specific indebtedness amount limit for UTGO Bonds, however, the total amount of
LTGO and UTGO indebtedness may not exceed 2.5% of assessed value.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
Parks and Open Space General Obligation Bonds. In addition to the debt outlined above,
cities may also issue debt, with voter approval, for up to 2.5% of assessed value for
acquiring or developing open space, park facilities, and capital facilities associated with
economic development.
Each of the funding or financing sources is screened according to these criteria:
Magnitude. Estimates the order of magnitude of these options.
Feasibility. Estimates how realistic each option is to be used for parks and recreation
revenues.
Flexibility. Estimates the extent to which each option is restricted for certain purposes, or
vice versa.
See Exhibit 75 for a funding and financing option evaluation summary.
Exhibit 75. Funding and Financing Options Evaluation
Current Available Options
capital only,•
Real Estate Excise Tax
AL
$100,000S
currently
earmarked for
debt payment
paths and trails;
Motor Vehicle Fuel Tax
NF
$1,000S
currently used for
transportation
projects
Taxes
Utility100,000S
�'
$
politically
unfeasible
Property Tax from Fire District
capital only
$100,000S
(2012-2023; then
Annexation
�,
unrestricted)
Possible Future Options
Grants
$100,000S
111=211
often require
matching funds
capital only,
Parks Impact Fees
$10,000S
Council action
required
March 2020 PORTTOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
Parks Levy
Financing Options
Parks and Open Space GO Debt
$1,000,000S mi f „ vote required
$1,000,000S vote required,•
capital only
1`Cr tcs, * ri lVll'la rrwdd lre iG:,xirrricd forrmillilrlc '-mvi ar�rl01rx'�i'a�ie a licml� fxf iir'r;PPAI Ir;fi'lrS h1l"ir,lirWi^„b Wid'Wi�P,a ill
elil"ie l the r 1�P:y a,i ra wrinbin alion of City al id C"rwlI ,/ I ir.ialIcii16', options, do nud1 repi,esE'[]l: I �W'l Friat <are
in ech ariisirns tra nna We rrx.aney 1'a 'n'1giI t: rye.
So , 131 1'(1 , 20a.9.
Most large funding sources require voter action. All funding opportunities involve tradeoffs
between priorities (for example, transportation versus parks), political will (voter and/or
Council action), and changes in flexibility as implementation of most funding mechanisms
involve a reduction in funding capacity. Funding sources should also be considered based on
equity. Property taxes and sales taxes are regressive, taking a larger percentage of income from
low-income earners than from high -income earners, but Washington governments rely on them
to fund basic services and capital investments.
Grants and repurposing property tax from the fire district annexation represent the two most
likely funding increases for parks and recreation purposes. Either option has the possibility of
significantly increasing the revenues available for parks and recreation (10% or more of parks
and recreation expenditures), are existing revenue streams that could be increased, and offer
some flexibility in spending. Both options have competitive processes; City capital priorities will
be competing for the first three years of repurposed property tax and grant -making
organizations generally solicit requests to consider multiple possible projects to be funded.
„nii'opi"'rati111s"m'„a" Ojipot"ttii"iV'irties
Because open spaces, trails and parks that are situated in natural low areas and shallow
depressions may also temporarily store stormwaters, there are opportunities to incorporate
park development into stormwater management facilities. Where feasible, parks should be
incorporated into the design of regional stormwater facilities thereby increasing the community
benefit from scarce public funds.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
As the City considers additional programming and changes to maintenance and operations, a
key aspect is expected impact on finances. As discussed in the Demand & Need section, the City
has opportunities to expand programming. Expansion of programming is a chance for the City
to revisit cost recovery goals.
In general, a leading practice considers the level of public or individual benefit for cost recovery
goals. The more that the benefit is individual, the higher the cost recovery goal should be.
Taking two examples, at one end are provision of public goods like large open spaces that can
be used by many people at once without detracting from others use (non -rivalrous goods), and
thus are not candidates for cost recovery. At the other end of the benefit spectrum, individual
swimming lessons are for a single person at a time. These resources are limited (one slot for
each person), require scheduling and registration, and have concentrated benefits. Parks and
recreation provide services across the range of possibilities, which creates opportunities to
tailor cost recovery goals.
The level of benefit approach is attractive because it easily accommodates customization of
fees for equity purposes. Programming with high individual benefit tends to be programs that
require registration, allowing for conversation about needs. For example, low- or fixed -income
individuals can have fees adjusted to match ability to pay, and these programs can be tied to
other income -dependent programming to reduce the burden on individuals to prove their
ability to pay.
CAPITAL FACILITY PLAID
The 2014 PROS Plan identified 17 capital projects for the period 2013 to 2020+. Projects
completed during that period included:
Bishop Play Park: Develop Parkside Drive (Bishop) Park Property
Mountain View Dog Park: Develop a dedicated sufficient sized dog park on current City
property or new purchase
The PROS Plan called for renovations to the Mountain View Pool with a potential timeframe of
2015-2018. Pool renovations did not specifically occur. General Mountain View Commons
improvements with some minor improvements for ADA access to the pool did occur as noted in
the City's 2019 Budget:
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
Mountain View Commons Improvements 2015-2018: The City completed energy efficiency
and emergency repairs, improved ADA access in the pool and gym, addressed fire and
safety systems, and others.
Bishop Play Park and Mountain View Dog Park were funded with private and volunteer
resources and City resources. Mountain View campus improvements were funded with a $3.6
million voter -approved Bond and Community Development Block Grant Funds.
The City of Port Townsend has not included a parks capital improvement program in its 2019
budget due to competing priorities and lack of resources.
As described in Level of Service evaluations, based on past investment carried forward, the
annual average investment in facilities and land would equal about $625,000 to 1,150,000 per
year. This is in the range of investments by agencies with similar assets or population densities
($280,000 to $1.1 million per year with a median investment per year by agencies of all sizes at
just over $800,000 per year).
Given scarce resources and a need to secure enhanced funding, projects are prioritized based
on their ability to advance the following objectives identified as target levels of service in
Chapter 5 Demand & Need:
Maintenance Objective
Investment per Capita Objective
Equitable Access and Distribution Objective
Projected funding assumes sources with moderate to high magnitude, moderate to high
feasibility, and moderate to high flexibility identified on Exhibit 75 above. These include capital
funds potentially available over the short term due to annexation to the fire district, general
fund, grants, and either impact or SEPA mitigation fees. Longer -term capital sources include a
potential MPD or parks levy. Should the City not pursue additional funding sources the capital
facility plan would require update.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
The table below identifies projects with a maintenance objective, based on unmet and deferred
needs in the City's 2019 budget, the 2019 NGF Consulting Golf Park Study, and Departmental
input.
Exhibit 76. Maintenance Objective: Deferred Maintenance and Capital Replacement
1. Pope Marine Park Plaza - Add
$6,000 X
electricity pedestals for special
events
2. Mountain View Pool Building:
$10,000 X
Foyer Heater Replacement
3. Improvements to Dog Park at Mtn
$20,000 X
View
4. Kubota Utility Vehicle
$10,000 X
5. Dump Truck
$65,000
6. Replace Skateboard Park Fence
$25,000 X
7. Golf Park Repair and Replacement
$1,229,000
8. Mountain View Pool: Lifecycle
Analysis and Associated Repairs
Total
Soul, Inrt, Irv,fiind?O 19 I:���rJfz�`t, 1''fl I rl<)01.9
TBD
$1,365,000 $71,000
X
X
$1,294,000
FD Annexation, General
Fund
FD Annexation, General
Fund
Private, Volunteer, FD
Annexation, General
Fund
FD Annexation, General
Fund
FD Annexation, General
Fund
FD Annexation, General
Fund
TBD: Cost Recovery,
Private, Grants, MPD,
Levy
See also Aquatic Center
(#18)
Projects that provide capacity at existing parks, allowing more persons to enjoy Port Townsend
Parks, are listed in Exhibit 76. The 6-year plan would implement improvements at Kah Tai
Lagoon to increase passive recreation opportunities, improve existing facilities, and conduct
habitat restoration. Improvements would also be made to picnic shelters, restrooms, and
repairs to slope erosion at Chetzemoka Park. Longer -term improvements across the system
would be to improve parks consistent with concept plans or minimum classification standards.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
Exhibit 77. Investment per Capita Objective: New Investments at Existing Parks
9.
Mountain View Pool:
$6,000 X
4 Drinking Fountains
with Bottle Filler
10.
Mountain View Pool:
$43,000 X
Inflatable Playground,
Slide, Climbing Wall
11.
Chetzemoka Concept
$10,652,800
X X
Plan Implementation
12.
Kah Tai Lagoon
$4,083,500 X
X X
Concept Plan
Implementation
13.
Bobby McGarraugh
$5,127,000
X
Concept Plan
Implementation
14.
Sather Park Concept
$2,524,942
X
Plan Implementation
15.
Neighborhood Parks
$2,500,000
X
Minimum Standards
Progress
16.
Downtown Park
$1,500,000
X
Minimum Standards
Progress
17.
Special Use Park
$2,500,000
X
Minimum Standards
Progress
18.
Aquatic Center:
TBD
X
Replacement/
Expansion
Total $28,937,242 $1,069,875 $2,618,795 $25,248,572
>ourtr.. IInrt, lfawl 2€ 19 li udr ,,,,.t, Gllif4 20191 BI Rl< 2[6719,
Private, FD
Annexation, General
Fund, Grants
Private, FD
Annexation, General
Fund, Grants
Private, Grants,
Impact/Mitigation
Fees, MPD, Levy
Private, Grants,
Impact/Mitigation
Fees, MPD, Levy
Private, Grants,
Impact/Mitigation
Fees, MPD, Levy
Private, Grants,
Impact/Mitigation
Fees, MPD, Levy
Private, Grants,
Impact/Mitigation
Fees, MPD, Levy
Private, Grants,
Impact/Mitigation
Fees, MPD, Levy
Private, Grants,
Impact/Mitigation
Fees, MPD, Levy
Private, Grants,
Impact/Mitigation
Fees, MPD, Levy
To address equitable access and distribution objectives, a series of capital improvements would
address acquisition or partnerships to fill gaps in the parks and trail system. In the immediate 6-
year period, the investments would be to fill in missing trail links to improve access to existing
parks and to more fully implement minimum improvements for 35t" Street Park serving the
western portion of the city where gaps are identified. Post 2027 additional park acquisitions are
noted for central and southwest city limits to fill other gaps.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
Exhibit 78. Equitable Access and Distribution Objective: Fill Gaps in Parks and Trails Network
19. 35th Street Park Concept
$3,608,450 X
X X Private, Grants,
Plan Implementation
Impact/Mitigation
Fees, MPD, Levy
20. Park Acquisitions or
$2,000,000
X Private, Grants,
Partnerships and
Impact/Mitigation
Development: Central and
Fees, MPD, Levy
Southwest
21. Missing Links: Trails, 2 miles
$600,000 X
X Public Works Capital
Funds Coordination,
Grants, Impact/
Mitigation Fees,
MPD, Levy
22. Loop Trail Connections
$1,750,000
X Public Works Capital
Funds Coordination,
Grants, Impact/
Mitigation Fees,
MPD, Levy
$7,958,450 $600,000 $902,113 $6,456,338
Source: 2019111Gar1€er.9 1-188,2f111; ir1.11,I"201.9,
Excluding an aquatic center, which is under discussion regionally by the City, County, and
YMCA, the total capital program is approximately $38.2 million. The 6-year investment is
approximately $6.6 million.
Exhibit 79. Summary Capital Facility Plan Expenditure Type and Schedule
1. Maintenance
$71,000
$1,294,000
$1,365,000
2. Invest in Existing
$1,069,875
$2,618,795
$3,688,670
Parks
3. Equitable Access
$600,000
$902,113
$1,502,113
and Distribution
Total
$1,740,875
$5,165,070
$6,555,783
`,rjui,fXr: i'orl. irrwiiscnd
0.'19 f:;aGadget, 411:58 01.1); 11t1.i,1<2019,
$227,500
$0
$1,365,000
$614,778
$25,248,572
$28,937,242
$250,352
$6,456,338
$7,958,450
$1,092,630
$31,704,910
$38,260,692
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 7 1 FUNDING AND FACILITIES PLAN
On an annualized basis, if the City invests in only maintenance and existing parks in the 2020-
2026 period, the annual investment will equal about $842,278 per year. See Exhibit 80. This is
similar to the investment per capita range identified in the Level of Service analysis in Chapter
S. If the City invests in equitable access and distribution as well as maintenance and existing
parks over the next six years the annual investment will equal about $1,092,630 per year, at the
upper end of peer communities. This would be feasible if additional funding sources are
identified.
Exhibit 80. Capital Budget and Target Level of Service — Per Capita Investment
Port Townsend Target LOS - Per Capita $5,058,900 $843,150 See Target LOS, page 71
Investment
Priority Focus 6-Year with Feasible
Funds
`,ou1,°cr I ? I fR1<; 019,
The overall capital budget at $38.2 million is greater than investment per capita enjoyed today.
It serves as a 40-year level of investment if population grows at a rate assumed in the
Comprehensive Plan. However, the more complete capital facilities list can be a source of
proposals for grant or partnership opportunities, and the list can serve as a guide to capital
proposals for future Comprehensive Plan Updates and PROS Plan Updates.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
PLAN
TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
This chapter identifies actions the City can take to optimally implement the goals, objectives,
and projects of this plan. It also identifies topics meant for further exploration.
MONITORING
The City intends to track its performance periodically to determine progress on implementation
of this plan. Monitoring is recommended in association with updates to the City budget and
capital improvement program. Performance measurement is a useful strategy in requesting
additional funding and resources.
Exhibit 81. Potential Monitoring Measures and Targets
Equitable Access and Distribution Parks and recreation facilities within a 10-minute walk to reach over 90% of
PortTownsend's population.
Parkland within a 10-minute walk increases its consistency with minimum
standards for the park classification.
Reduced park gaps in central and western city limits by 2036.
Improved access to neighborhoods with higher concentrations of families
with children or seniors living alone.
Phase improved access by filling in missing links in trails.
Function - Investment The value of the parks and recreation system is maintained as the community
grows.
Maintain an annual capital facility investment range of $300,000 to
$1,100,000 per year, depending on available funding sources.
Function - Maintenance Ensure that maintenance resources keep up with increased demand.
Maintenance investment per capita is applied to increased population growth
(approximately $120 in 2019 dollars).
Maintenance costs per acre are considered as developed parks are added.
Source: R1 Rll�, 2019,
CH. 8 1 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
PHASING
Given local conditions of each park site and trail route, Port Townsend may phase
improvements and consider alternative facility types and cross sections. At the master plan or
project design level, each project will be reassessed to determine the appropriateness of the
suggested improvements based on physical characteristics of the property and public
engagement associated with master plan development. It may be necessary to implement a
different design solution or combination of design solutions than are shown in this plan. In
addition, there may be development of other capital projects or changes in funding strategies
that dictate a different approach.
PARTNERSHIP & FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
The PROS plan has been developed with information from Jefferson County, State Parks, YMCA,
and other stakeholders in mind. Stakeholders can advance implementation of this system
through joint design, funding, and coordination, and the City intends to continue to build
relationships with these and other partners to implement the plan.
Port Townsend also partners with community groups, non-profit, and government agencies to
support stewardship and public access. Port Townsend intends to monitor contributions from
its partners to ensure that investments and resources align with expected outcomes and
benefits, advancing the goals, needs, policies, and recommendations of the PROS Plan.
VOLUNTEERISM
Volunteer programs are common to parks and recreation programs. Such programs can
enhance and beautify park properties and allow agencies to offer programs and events that
would not otherwise be available or be more costly.
Port Townsend has had a long history of park and trail volunteerism. Examples of volunteers
contributing to park and trail development include the building of 31 miles of trails and a dog
park. Volunteers supporting maintenance include those participating in the City's Adopt A Park
program in place since 2001.
Port Townsend's current park and trail volunteer program consists of:
Adopt -A -Park
Trail parties
March 2020 PORTTOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 8 1 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
Garden care
Volunteer programs require administration and training, background checks, and oversight, and
agencies often have volunteer coordinators to fill this role. In 2019, Port Townsend filled a
position addressing an events / facility / volunteer coordinator. This will allow the City to create
a more robust volunteer program addressing a range of park system aspects.
DONATIONSIFUND RAISING
The City of Port Townsend's Park Memorial and Donation program allows community members
the opportunity to remember or honor a loved one, celebrate an event or provide a legacy for
the future through a donation to the City's park system. These donations may include, but are
not limited to, park benches, bicycle racks, picnic tables, drinking fountains, flags, and other
types of park or trails accessories and (in certain limited circumstances) public art and
monuments. This policy does not apply to buildings or land.
Many park and recreation agencies across the country benefit from private donations that pay
for purchase and construction of new facilities or program costs such as scholarships for camps
or other recreation programs. The mechanism for donations is frequently through a non-profit
foundation or conservatory organization. The City could develop criteria for determining which
projects and programs to fund, based on public goals.
Fund-raising often occurs with foundations but more recently newer forms of fundraising
include crowd -sourcing. Crowd -sourcing uses donor sites where stakeholders can pledge
donations online to a specific project and will only be charged in the event that the funding
target is reached and the project moves forward. The City could determine its policies around
whether it would:
Champion projects on existing platforms
Run its own campaigns or establish its own platform
Facilitate a citizen -led and financed project without being directly responsible for a project
A near -term example of grass -roots fundraising effort relates to the Mountain View Dog Park.
The City has an active dog park/ dog owner community anticipating holding future fundraisers
related to the dog park specifically.
March 2020 PORTTOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS % ,
CH. 8 1 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
ASSET MANAGEMENT
The park system must be maintained on a regular and ongoing basis for the public to benefit
from it and to ensure facilities achieve their longest lifespan. Additionally, assets must be
tracked, scheduled, and funded for repair and replacement.
Maintenance crews provide a wide range of services to ensure parks are clean, safe, and
functional. Routine maintenance includes duties, such as garbage pick-up, lawn and landscape
care, set up for events, cleaning and general maintenance of play areas, beaches, waterfronts,
trails, pathways, parking lots, pool, dog parks, and skate park. Maintenance staff also support
special events and volunteer projects. Public input at the Vision Survey showed the public
found the overall quality and maintenance of the parks to be good or very good. See Exhibit 82.
Exhibit 82. Maintenance Appreciation — Vision Survey
How would you rate the overall quality and maintenance of parks in Port Townsend? (n=769)
Very Good 153
Good
N eLJ1t� C11 188
Poor 24
Very ➢'fit V"
c➢cart Iknow,/i ,,) opiin or.
Source: SwwcylMonlkcy,la RI<201.y�
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 8 1 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
Deferred
Port Townsend strives to preserve the quality and capacity of existing facilities, extending useful
life for as long as practicable. As described under Monitoring above, target level of service
objectives seek to ensure maintenance resources are increased as system usage or system size
increases.
Maintenance staff review the physical condition of park assets regularly. Each asset receives a
rating condition as good, fair, or poor. A condition rating is used to determine needed
maintenance, repair, or replacement. Capital replacements are scheduled in the City capital
improvement program in the budget. Smaller projects are handled by the on -site, routine
maintenance staff. Port Townsend strives to schedule planned lifecycle improvements and
known repairs within a six -year window.
Capital replacement projects are prioritized and executed based on the following criteria:
■ Addresses a public safety or environmental health issue,
■ Promotes intended usage by the public and reduces loss of function,
■ Increases park capacity or benefit to the public, and
■ Promotes cost benefit and generates return to the park system.
AccessEbflNty
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 is a civil rights law prohibiting discrimination
based on disabilities and ensuring that people with disabilities have the same rights and
opportunities as everyone else. Under Title II of the ADA, a public entity is required to perform
a self -evaluation of its current services, policies, and practices for ADA compliance. The self -
evaluation includes surveying the existing facilities and identifying barriers to access and/or
communication. Following this self -evaluation, municipalities are required to create a plan to
make "reasonable modifications" where necessary to avoid discrimination and to ensure their
facilities and activities are accessible to all.
New construction projects are being designed in compliance with the 2010 Standards for
Accessible Design. ADA improvements have been considered in park concept plans and the
capital budget allows for additional improvements at other parks.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 8 1 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
sI I p and III' iiii hint na nc Plans
Though natural areas have fewer built amenities and are maintained less frequently than active
recreation parks, stewardship of these areas increases opportunities for people to connect to
nature. This PROS Plan supports the development of Stewardship and Maintenance Plans for
parks intended for conservation such as Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park and Neighborhood Nature
Parks. Stewardship and Maintenance plans involve site assessments, tailored stewardship and
maintenance programs, coordination with partners or volunteers to ensure sites are properly
and safely managed and opened to the public for access and enjoyment consistent with the
plan.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION
The City has identified open space assets in Appendix C. It identifies assets and priority areas for
open space conservation which can guide open space conservation efforts and create
opportunities for partnerships. It can also be a platform for identifying stewardship
management needs, and grants, funding, and education opportunities.
Opportunities for environmental conservation recognition and education include:
Certifying Community Nature Parks and Neighborhood Nature Parks as Certified Wildlife
Habitats through the National Wildlife Federation. This would place certified parks on the
Federation's national register of certified spaces, and the Federation would provide
weather-proof signs to hang in the public space at each park that could support education
and understanding about the need for such spaces. This would advance the Federation's
goal to create large scale, nationwide wildlife corridors through certification, one property
and park at a time.
Consider opportunities (with a certified arborist's approval) for a dying or failing tree in an
Community or Neighborhood Park to be turned specifically into Wildlife Trees (or Snags)
and Certified as such by the State of Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (for which
they have a specific program and signage for the tree). Like the Certified Wildlife Habitat
Certification by the National Wildlife Federation, the Wildlife Tree Certification is
inexpensive, the signs are weather proof and they are educational. City park trees could
illustrate the benefit of allowing dying trees to serve a wildlife function where appropriate
to the location and condition of a City park site.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
CH. 8 1 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
COMMUNITY EDUCATION & PROMOTION
Given the number of parks and recreation sites operated and programed by the City, County,
State, and School District as well as non -profits within Port Townsend city limits, it can be
challenging for the public and each agency to understand available activities, schedules, and
resources.
Each agency provides regular fliers and news ads and web/email communication about its
recreation programming and events.
The City and other agencies could jointly coordinate and cross -promote recreation program
materials and parks and trails maps. The City and other agencies could explore establishing a
central email and phone number staffed on a rotating basis by each agency staff.
PLAN COORDINATION
This PROS Plan retains the Comprehensive Plan level of service (LOS) for consistency but
explores related target or aspirational LOS measures for distribution and function consistent
with the Comprehensive Plan policies. During future Comprehensive Plan Updates the City
could consider alternative means of measuring LOS or integrating target LOS measures in the
Comprehensive Plan.
The City could consider updating the Non -Motorized Trail Plan drawing from the information in
this plan.
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
PLAN
TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs. (2019). The Science. Retrieved
from https://www.natureandforesttherapy.org/:
https://www.natureandforesttherapy.org/
Dean Runyan Associates. (2019, May). Washington State Travel Impacts & Visitor Volume 2010
—2018p. Retrieved from www.deanrunyan.com:
http://www.deanrunyan.com/doc_library/WAStlmp.pdf.
Hedden, B. P. (2017, September). 2017 Washington State Recreation and Conservation Plan,
Provider Survey Results. Retrieved from www.rco.wa.gov:
https://www.rco.wa.gov/StateRecPlans/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Provider-Survey-
Results.pdf
Jefferson Healthcare. (2019, March). Senior Exercise Options in Port Townsends, Tri-Area,
Quilcene, Brinnon. Retrieved from https:/Aeffersonhealthcare.org/:
https://jeffersonhealthcare.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Senior-Exercise-
Options.pdf
Jostad, J. e. (2017, July). State of Washington 2017 Assessment of Outdoor Recreation Demand
Report. Retrieved from www.rco.wa.gov: https://www.rco.wa.gov/StateRecPlans/wp-
content/uploads/2017/08/Assessment-of-Demand.pdf
Kevin Roth, N. (2017, July 2). Parks and Recreation: Serving a Growing, Older Population.
Retrieved from https://www.nrpa.org/: https://www.nrpa.org/parks-recreation-
magazine/2017/july/parks-and-recreation-serving-a-growing-older-population/
Landes, S. E. (2008). Municipal Recreation Programming. Retrieved from Pennsylvania
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources:
CH.9 1 REFERENCES
http://www.docs.dcnr.pa.gov/cs/groups/public/documents/document/dcnr 002292.pd
National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO). (2014, March). nacto.org.
Retrieved from Urban Bikeway Design Guide: https:Hnacto.org/publication/urban-
bikeway-design-guide/
National Recreation and Park Association. (2019). 2019 NRPA AGENCY PERFORMANCE REVIEW.
PARK AND RECREATION AGENCY PERFORMANCE BENCHMARKS. Ashburn, VA: N RPA.
Palmer, L. (2019, September 12). Board Member, Jefferson County Immigrant Rights Advocates.
(P. R. Alex Wisniewski, Interviewer)
Port Townsend Senior Association (PTSA). (2019, 12 20). Learn About Us. Retrieved from
http://ptseniors.com/: http://ptseniors.com/about/
Tipping, E. R. (2019, June). 2019 State of the Managed Recreation Industry. Retrieved from
http://recmanagement.com: http://recmanagement.com/feature/201906FE01
US Forest Service. (2016, September). Trail Fundamentals and Trail Management Objectives.
Retrieved from https://www.fs.usda.gov/: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-
land/trails/trail-management-tools/trail-fundamentals
Washington State Parks. (2019, December 20). FORT WORDEN STATE PARK. Retrieved from
www.stateparks.com:
https://www.stateparks.com/fort_worden_state_park_in_washington.htmI
White, M. P. (2019). Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good
health and wellbeing. Nature 9:7730.
Witt, P. A. (2010). The Rationale for Recreation Services for Youth: An Evidenced Based
Approach. Retrieved from https://www.nrpa.org/:
https://www.nrpa.org/globalassets/research/witt-caldwell-full-research-paper.pdf
WSDOT. (2009, March 16). Bicycle Facilities. Retrieved from www.wsdot.wa.gov:
https://www.wsdot.wa.gov/sites/default/files/2009/03/16/BicycleFacilitiesPoster_VO4.
pdf
March 2020 PORT TOWNSEND 2020 PROS PLAN I TODAY'S VISION, TOMORROW'S PARKS
PRTTAB Draft Workplan Recommendations for City Retreat 22 July 2024
2025 Priorities for Workplan - Parks, Recreation, Trees & Trails Advisory Board
(PRTTAB - this is a draft list of suggested/possible responses to Council's five questions for the
city retreat in July - questions are in the Mayor's letter and copied in our agenda. The capitalized
words in brackets are from the Strategic Workplan's 7 Priority Areas in your packet. Please
evaluate whether the item is responsive to the suggested priority and please contribute ideas
and responses, especially to questions 4 and 5).
1. status of workplan items from PRTTAB's 2023 list for 2024 priorities - our list last year had
three priorities
tree lists - a subcommittee (Russell Hill, Richard Hefley and Debbie Jahnke) is working with
staff toward completion on three lists: street tree list, parks/open space tree list and
understory list - we expect to finish soon; we are also engaged in helping staff with tree
selections for existing road projects [DELIVER]
buildable lands - a subcommittee (Pam Adams, Becci Kimball and Jim Todd) has been
identified but has not yet begun their work effort - they will proceed whenever the
Comprehensive Plan update process is ready for their effort [SUSTAIN]
parks foundation - effort to establish a foundation is underway (led by Becci Kimball with
volunteer David Lubinski), steering committee members have been identified, mission
statement is being constructed, goals are being discussed [ENGAGE, ENVISION]
2. PRTTAB priorities for 2024/2025
• stabilize funding for parks - every budget cycle is tenuous for parks funding without a
dedicated funding source [INVEST; SUSTAIN]
• increase permanent and seasonal park staff - Trust for Public Lands says that our city of
10K should have at least 5 full time parks staff and several seasonals [INVEST, SUSTAIN]
• equitable distribution - equity is being addressed with grant proposals submitted for two
new efforts, one in midtown (Golf Park accessible playground) and one on the west side
(Hancock Park) [DELIVER, SERVE]
• reclaim street ends - street ends tend to get subsumed for use by adjacent property
owners and should be kept available for public use as they are often the best view locations
in the city and are public rights of way [EMBRACE]
• re-establish volunteer trails workparties - with 30-odd miles of trails, we could have much
more involvement of volunteers to help staff if we could re-estabish our previous
Inon motorized' work parties [ENGAGE, INVEST]
3. what has gone well?
two new parks/park features were submitted for funding to RCO by Michael Todd and Carrie
Hite (Golf Park playground and Hancock Park) [ENGAGE, EMBRACE]
two grant proposals were submitted to USDA and funded (thanks to Robin Hill, Emma Bolin
and others). One grant will fund consultants to develop an Urban Forestry Plan and update
the Tree Conservation Code; we will work with WSU as a CBO for outreach. A second grant
from the same source was funded to provide approx. 75 street trees for westside road
improvement projects to provide some canopy equity, also working with WSU as a CBO for
outreach [EMBRACE, DELIVER]
one grant proposal was submitted to DNR (thanks to Michael Todd and David Lubinski) and
funded to provide tree/understory equity to two neighborhood parks that have both active
and passive features - Bishop and Sather; currently selecting contractor for the work
[EMBRACE, ENGAGE]
PRTTAB Draft Workplan Recommendations for City Retreat 22 July 2024
• subcommittee (Matt Miner and Becci Kimball) are engaged with the update to the Active
Transportation Plan, working with Jeff Kostechka as staff lead [ENVISION, DELIVER]
• Discovery Road project planting plan reviewed and recommended by PRTTAB members
[EMBRACE]
• Dog park Adopt A Park group (Mountain View Tail Waggers) is a great model for volunteer
Adopt A Park efforts [ENGAGE, ENVISION]
• Caretaker at Kah Tai is a phenomenal success - the park is clean and quiet and beautiful
and many folks have commented about the changes [EMBRACE, SERVE]
4. what should we stop doing or do differently?
5. What else should we be considering?
• let's not wait to update the PROS Plan until 2030 - selected updates were approved by
Council to accomodate the RCO grant process, but there is much more that needs to be
updated and corrected in the Plan [SUSTAIN, ENGAGE]
FA
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PUBLIC WORKS
Memo
To: Parks Recreation Trees and Trails Advisory Board
From: Steve King
CC.:
Date: 6/25/24
Subject: Landmark Tree Evaluation Considerations
I NTRODUCTION/PU RPOSE:
The City's Landmark Tree designation process is governed by Chapter 12 PTMC. The codified process
involves evaluation of the tree and then presenting the application to the PRTTAB for recommendation
to the Public Works Director on whether or not a tree should receive landmark designation or not.
As part of the process, the code does a good job of laying out considerations related to the tree
distinctly, but is silent on other considerations that may impact the public. Staff is concerned about
landmark tree process being a tool that divides neighborhoods or as a way to stop work that is proposed
as part of the overarching city plans.
Here are the code considerations regarding the merits about the tree proposed to be designated.
12.24.050 Landmark trees - Qualification.
A. The landmark tree preservation designation recognizes the significance of certain special trees to the
citizens of Port Townsend. A tree on private or public property may be protected throughout its useful life
because of its contribution to the environment and city character.
B. Property Owner Consent. To be nominated as a landmark tree, consent of the tree's property owner, or
owners, is required. Forms for nominating a tree as a landmark tree will be maintained by public works.
C. Nominations for landmark tree designation shall be reviewed by the city's tree committee. To qualify as a
landmark tree, one or more of the following criteria must be met:
1. The tree has significance associated with a historical person, place or event;
2. The tree has attained significant size in height, caliper, or canopy spread for its age and species,
3. The tree has unique or uncommon aesthetic qualities for its species;
4. The tree is prominently visible to the public, along a major road or near a public place;
5. The tree possesses rare horticulture value.
D. In addition to the above criteria, to qualify as a landmark tree the tree must not constitute a hazard or
obstruction.
E. The tree committee shall consider all nominations for landmark tree designation at an open public
meeting.
The above code does not address other considerations when making the determination of landmark
tree designation. City staff recommend that the following criteria also be evaluated.
1. Hazards are reflective of safety concerns to traveling public or people on private property,
impacts to private property, impacts to public property public property, and/or impacts to
animals, is a significant contributor to wildfire hazard, or other trees and plants. Hazards should
be able to be mitigated if designation proceeds.
2. Tree health needs to be considered in terms of hazard evaluation as well as maintenance costs.
3. Impact to City and franchise utilities.
4. Right tree right location versus right tree wrong location, versus wrong tree right location
5. Impacts to pavement and or road surfacing
6. Whether there is an impact to a future road extension or driveway necessary to access property
or meet city street plans, fire access, or other public needs.
7. Impacts to trails.
8. Impacts to uses of right of way and/or easements. Some easements may prevent trees from
existing within an easement as an example.
9. The PW Director should seek input from utility managers as a matter of decision making
process.
10. Whether the landmark tree designation is being used as a tool to create neighborhood division
or impact others negatively
11. How the tree fits within the goals for housing, commercial development, and other land uses
designated by the comprehensive plan.
12. How the tree impacts utility plans.
Are there other criteria that should be evaluated as part of the application and designation process?
Thanks,
Steve