CITY OF VICTORIA PARK MASTER PLAN A Comprehensive Park, Trail and Open Space Plan 2005-2020 December 2005 Prepared by the City of Victoria and MK Land Corporation Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Acknowledgements This group comprised the Master Plan’s project team that consisted of the following individuals: City of Victoria Kristine Mock – Supervisor of Parks and Recreation Stephen T. Sarvi – City Administrator David Urbia – Interim City Administrator Park Committee Dan Barsness Mary Erickson Ann Hoelscher Jeff Hohertz Jerald P. Moja Terrence E. Bishop - Council Liaison MK Land Corporation Mark Kaltsas – Project Coordinator City of Victoria staff and the consultant worked together to provide the background information. The Park Committee provided feedback and input regarding the “big picture” ideas that they wanted to see incorporated into the plan. Together the project team addressed the many issues facing the city and developed a plan that addressed those issues. 2 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Table of Contents I. Executive Summary A. Park System Vision B. Big Ideas Page 5 Page 5 Page 6 II. Master Plan Purpose Page 9 III. Understanding Victoria A. Background B. Related Planning Efforts Summary C. Demographic Trends Summary D. Acquisition of Park Land E. 2004 Park and Recreation Community Survey Summary Page 10 Page 10 Page 10 Page 11 Page 14 Page 14 IV. Park System Organization A. Organizational Format B. Level of Service Summary C. Current Park Inventory - General Observations and Reactions Page 17 Page 17 Page 17 Page 20 V. Existing Park System A. Analysis of Conditions B. Existing Facilities C. Existing Trails Page 22 Page 22 Page 29 Page 30 VI. Future Park System A. Future Park Development B. Future Facility Development C. Future Trail Development Page 33 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 VII. Regional Opportunities Page 37 VIII. General Guidelines and Standards A. Programming Balance B. Architectural Standards C. Park Design Maintenance Standards D. Field Design, Maintenance, and Replacement Standards E. Equipment Design, Maintenance, and Replacement Standards F. Trail Design, Maintenance, and Replacement Standards G. Landscape Design, Maintenance, and Replacement Standards Page 39 Page 39 Page 39 Page 42 Page 42 Page 44 Page 46 Page 47 IX. Page 49 Page 49 Page 50 Implementation and Prioritization A. Priority/Phasing of Park Development B. Priority of Big Ideas 3 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Table of Contents (Continued) C. General Timeline of Trigger Points for Big Ideas Page 51 X. Appendices A. Background B. Related Studies C. 2004 Community Survey Raw Data Page 55 Page 55 Page 56 Page 60 XI. Figures 1. Population 2. Park Inventory 3. Facilities Inventory 4. Field/Court Design Standards 5. Baseball Field 6. Basketball Court 7. Football/Lacrosse Field 8. Tennis Court 9. Typical Green Ribbon Plan 10. Typical Green Ribbon Section 11. Typical Neighborhood Park 12. Typical Playground Plan Page 65 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68 Page 79 Page 70 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 XII. Maps 1. Big Ideas 2. Regional Opportunities 3. Trails Map 4. Parks Map 5. Composite Park/Trail Map 4 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan I. December 22, 2005 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Victoria has a rich history of planning. Aspects of community planning date back to the 1850s when Michael Diethelm and his brother Carl decided where to construct their homes and eventually the community church. Modern planning commenced in 1966 when the city drafted a zoning ordinance and continued in the early 1970s when the first Comprehensive Land Use Plan was prepared. Many past and current planning efforts focus on parks and open space as an integral component in Victoria’s development and growth. Victoria has long referred to itself as the City of Lakes and Parks. The city initially developed a large community park in what was originally the center of the city. Victoria has long been associated with Carver Park Preserve. Parks, open space and trails contribute significantly to the city’s image of a small town intent on preserving the rural heritage of the community. The 1998 and 2004 Comprehensive Plans, along with the 2002 South Sub Area Study, have helped to set the stage for a park master plan document which will focus on physical and programmatic needs and standards rather than statistical and monetary analysis and administrative planning. Many of the concepts developed in this plan have been discussed throughout the last fifteen years or longer. Victoria has long recognized that its need for parks and open space must be integrated into partnerships with neighboring municipalities, regional park districts, the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and local school districts. Within the past ten years development and growth have threatened to change the face of Victoria’s rural character. In spite of this steady increase of new development, Victoria has been able to use this growth and development as a valuable asset that has aided in the development of parks, open spaces and trails. Within the past several years the city has begun to expand into adjacent Laketown Township. With this ongoing expansion, the city has determined it necessary to step back and develop a comprehensive park, trails and open space master plan that will guide the development of the city for the next fifteen years. Given this opportunity, the City of Victoria has commissioned this Park Master Plan. A. Park System Vision We envision the City of Victoria, the City of Lakes and Parks, as a place where parks, recreation and environmental conservation efforts enhance the quality of life. This Master Plan should offer an opportunity to improve, develop and create a system of places safely and innovatively linked through a network of planned open spaces and sensitively managed green space corridors. This system should provide for both recreational opportunities and the protection and enhancement of environmental resources. It is the goal of this Master Plan to project a Vision of the city park system through the year 2020. 5 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 “System” becomes a key to this plan. This plan sets forth the development of the park system which when completed will form a relationship between the living and crafted environments. This system will not be a random collection of parks and facilities but rather a fluid series of spaces and amenities. The users of this system will be able to flow between active and passive recreational opportunities by way of a Green Ribbon system (See Figures 9 and 10). Development of this system will be in concert with the continuing development of residential, commercial and industrial areas. B. Big Ideas Beyond planning future park development and maintenance of the current park system, this plan also includes “Big Ideas.” Based on geographical opportunities and citizen priorities, each of the Big Ideas is presented as a planning challenge for the community. The Big Ideas described below in priority order are those pieces that when thoroughly integrated will form a holistic plan and a distinguished park system. Trail Connectivity The connectivity of the trail and park system is crucial to the vision of an interconnected community. As the park system develops, it should have as a central feature “connectedness”. This “connectedness” should be achieved through a series of parks and trails woven together with the concept of a Green Ribbon. The ultimate goal should be seamless access within the park and trail system. Large Urban Park Waterfront Park It is the belief of the Park and Recreation Committee that Victoria will need a large urban park to serve the southern portions of the community as it expands southward. A large urban park would range from 75 to 100 acres in size. It would consist of open spaces, environmentally significant spaces and areas designed specifically to meet the resident’s recreational needs. The Park and Recreation Committee believe that Victoria, “The City of Lakes and Parks”, should have a park that contains a waterfront park with swimming and other water activities available for public use. Finding a suitable location of this park may be a challenge, but should be a high priority of the city. Green Ribbon System The Park and Recreation Committee believe that a greenway consisting of landscaped areas and adjoining trails should be integral to the park and trail system. A Green Ribbon is proposed to be a unique greenway which would provide 6 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 a seamless connection between parks, open spaces and residential neighborhoods and would consist of a trail in concert with open spaces and natural corridors. This feature should utilize existing natural amenities such as woodlands, wetlands, lakes, ponds and streams. The width of the corridor will vary based on actual field conditions and development layout. The minimum width of the corridor should be no less than 30 feet and will often be greater. A Green Ribbon should include a minimum corridor width of 30 feet, a bituminous trail or regional trail and any of the following amenities: open play areas woodland areas wetland areas lakes and ponds connection to public roads connection to other local or regional trails waterfront access schools Urban Town Square Lake Tamarack Park Preserve The town square should be located within the Central Business District and will become the central gathering place for the community. This identifiable landmark should serve as the hub for business, civic events, cultural festivals, exhibits and other entertainment within the city. It will provide a place for relaxation, a retreat for downtown workers and shoppers and will function as a unifying visual element. Lake Tamarack is a highly pristine environmental lake that should be preserved. Majestic stands of oak, maple, basswood and pine as well as an upland meadow and wetlands provide habitat for a diverse population of birds, mammals, amphibians, and native plants. The deepest lake in Carver County supports a healthy lake ecosystem and fishery. Low impact recreational opportunities are compatible with the long term goals of the preserve. Protect the water quality of the lake. Vigorously prevent water pollution. Encourage a healthy fishery, waterfowl habitat, and native flora and fauna. Value the scenic beauty of the preserve, trail corridors, and buffers. Victoria’s Gateways Victoria’s Gateways will provide to all traveling on key roads into the city, a welcoming sense of entry, a warm thank you and an invitation to return to our community. The gateways will ensure that the distinction is made when entering and leaving Victoria. The gateways will be strategically located, highly visible, impeccably landscaped and should include signage which 7 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 distinguishes Victoria from the surrounding communities. The Gateways will also provide key linkages between Victoria’s Green Ribbon and regional park systems. Sports Complex As the city grows, the need for a centralized sports outdoor complex meeting the sporting needs of the community will also grow. This facility will be in addition to the already developed and future community parks in Victoria. This complex should include lighting and fields for various outdoor sporting activities such as soccer, baseball, softball and tennis. The complex shall be located in an area that will include a buffer from the lighting, traffic, noise and activity into the later evening hours. 8 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan II. December 22, 2005 MASTER PLAN PURPOSE The Park Master Plan is intended to provide a guide to maintaining and enhancing existing parks and facilities while laying down the blue print for the development of future parks within the city. The plan acknowledges that there are unique circumstances within the city which create limitations or provide opportunities. The plan provides a clear direction for the development of the Victoria park system for the next fifteen years. As designs are developed from the master plan for the various parks and facilities, it is essential to consider the following: Establish a visual project identity in harmony with the physical context that reflects and respects the City of Victoria’s rural characteristics, historical past, and future with design solutions that are innovative, efficient, durable, beautiful and economically viable. Maintain a level of service that is consistent with that which is provided today by the existing parks and facilities. Determine the needs and uses of each park and facility in accordance with community’s standards. Provide a framework to guide planning, development and park administration decisions Set the vision for the Victoria park system as well as the cornerstone “Big Idea” features. 9 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 III. UNDERSTANDING VICTORIA A. Background Victoria is a community that has a rich heritage as a place that encompassed unparalleled natural resources and open spaces. This can be seen by looking out at any point within the community at the numerous wetlands, big woods and nine lakes spread throughout the city. In doing this, one quickly recognizes the symbiotic relationship between the residents and their natural resources and open spaces and realizes that the enhancement, preservation and addition to all of these amenities results in a higher quality of life for all. Through past planning efforts Victoria has been able to maintain and preserve many of the components that make the community what it is today (See Appendix A). In this light it is clear that in order to understand the park and open space needs of the Victoria, one must understand the history of the city’s planning efforts and the natural evolution of the place. Victoria was once covered by continental glaciers the last of which is referred to as the Wisconsin. The numerous depressions left behind make up the extensive lakes and creek system that is found today. Historically there were large areas covered by hardwood forests that contain oak, elm, maple, basswood and ash trees. The topography consists of nearly level plains, moraines and depressions. Most of Victoria and the eventual annexation area drains towards Lake Minnetonka. Victoria is a part of the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District. Victoria and the surrounding area was settled in the 1800’s and incorporated in the 1915. Victoria is primarily a low density community with little commercial or industrial development. As Victoria continues to grow there will be a need for services and additional commercial development within the community. New higher density development will begin to be developed as the number of people that move to this area continues to increase. B. Related Planning Efforts The City of Victoria has a current Comprehensive Plan which was adopted in 1998 and amended in 2004. This document is the third generation of comprehensive plan documents established by the City and is the primary resource used for planning and guiding the development and redevelopment of the City of Victoria. The 2004 Comprehensive Plan Amendment set the development timelines and staging through the year 2020. In addition to establishing land use designations and the staging of new development, the Comprehensive plan sets forth the primary goals of the city as it continues to develop. These goals have been in some part incorporated into this Park Master Plan. 10 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 The goals established by the Comprehensive Plan are as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. Identity – Preserve small town rural qualities while allowing development. Environment – Protect lakes, wetlands, woods, parks and wildlife, and use these amenities to attract development. Downtown – Redevelop for prime retail, service, office, medical and entertainment. Industrial Park – Facilitate redevelopment by establishing an Industrial Park and attract favorable (tax) development. Transportation – Promote functional and aesthetic improvements including landscaping, pedestrian and bike facilities. Recreation – Take advantage of the parks and natural qualities and provide recreation serving the varying needs of the Community. Services – Establish/maintain a balance between extending services and ability to pay. Fiscal – Maintain or improve fiscal condition; have a stable tax level relying on new growth to fund public costs. Community Cohesion – Achieve cohesiveness by linking the Community and improving communications. Quality Development – Require development to be of high quality (design and material) and achieved on a planned basis. Annexation – Shall be orderly, fiscally sound and property annexed to be fairly treated relative to taxes and services. The city has recently completed several other planning studies which have set forth the basis for the Park Master Plan. The South Sub-Area Study completed in 2002 and the Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR) completed in 2003 focused on various components included within this document. C. Demographic Trends The City of Victoria has several demographic trends that are or will affect the park system. In order to assess and anticipate the City’s current and future recreational needs, one must understand its current and future population. The composition and population, the number and type of housing, the extent of housing turnover and the number of school aged children per house are all factors that need to be understood. Population and Household Growth Victoria’s population has more than quadrupled since 1990, increasing from nearly 1,200 to an estimated 5,800 in 2005. The city’s population has nearly exceeded that which was projected (6,372) by the Metropolitan Council in 1998 (previous 2020 blue print projection). The city projects that the population will more than triple in the next fifteen 11 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 (15) years so that by 2020 the City of Victoria will have a population of approximately 20,000 (See Figure 1). Population / Household Growth 25,000 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 0 Total Households 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2,169 2,375 2,581 2,787 2,993 3,200 3,565 4,015 4,465 4,915 5,365 5,815 6,215 6,615 7,015 7,415 Cummulative Population 6,073 6,650 7,226 7,803 8,380 8,960 9,982 11,242 12,502 13,762 15,022 16,282 17,402 18,522 19,642 20,762 Housing The city’s housing stock consists primarily of single family residential units. As of January 1, 2005 the city has approximately 2,200 housing units. Approximately 15% of the current housing is multi-family. It is anticipated that housing will continue in a similar fashion and with a similar ratio of single-family to multi-family. The projected number of households in 2020 is 7500 units. Housing needs for the over 55 population (often referred to as empty nesters) is changing. There has been an increase in the development of condominium and multi-family construction to accommodate the need to down-size. The higher cost of raw land has also lead to the development of higher density multi-family developments. These developments are attracting first and second time home buyers. Household Composition In general, the population of the region is aging. This is not unique to this region as the country as a whole is seeing the largest percentage of the population over 55. At a local level, there continues to be a steady flow of younger families to this area due to the new development and growth occurring within Victoria. With the construction of the new Highway 212 and the availability of developable land this trend is projected to continue 12 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 for the foreseeable future. One often overlooked national trend which has recently been seen in Minnesota is the increase in immigration from outside the U.S. The twin cities region has documented a steady increase in the number of immigrants to this area over the last decade. These families have different demographic characteristics including younger mean age and more children per household. School-Age Children The number of children per household has seen a decrease in this area despite the growth due to new home starts. In the past, a multiplier of 0.7 children per single-family household was used to determine the size. A recent study conducted by the Chaska Area School District found that number to be more in the range of 0.55 children per singlefamily household. Similarly, the number of children per multi-family household has seen a change from 0.2 to 0.11. According to the state demographer, Carver County is not expected to see an increase in the number of school age children due to new births. The largest factor that could contribute to the growth of children in this area will continue to be immigration. Victoria will likely continue to develop in a manner similar to its past with approximately 85% of the new construction to be single-family residential and 15% to be multi-family residential. This will lead to a steady percentage of school age children per household despite the high rate of growth. Housing Turnover There is no formula for projecting housing turnover in a particular area. Victoria has a relatively new housing stock. The average home cost in Victoria is near the highest average in the state. Typically, homes with higher values turnover more often than those with lower home values. In Victoria, home values have increased significantly over the past decade and may contribute to the number of turnovers that occur in the community. It is anticipated that housing turnover will increase as the over 55 group continues to replace their large single-family home with new multi-family homes in an effort to down size. This may result in an increase of younger families with school age children. Summary The following trends and projections are based on the demographic data discussed above: The city’s population will significantly grow over the next 15 years. The number of households will increase with the population growth, while the average number of persons per household will stay constant or slightly decline. The number of school aged children in the community will grow; however, the number per household will remain constant. 13 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan D. December 22, 2005 Increased immigration may balance the general aging of the population. Acquisition of Park Land The city primarily uses two mechanisms to acquire park land: 1. Park Land Dedication Ordinance for New Developments 2. General Tax Dollars Dedication of park land is required by the City of Victoria Subdivision Ordinance, Section 22-32, for any new development or subdivision occurring within the city. Based on the need established by the city for new park land, a three-part formula was developed. The formula sets forth the amount of land required within each new development. Generally, the three parts of the formula relate to the various types of park land needed by the city to accommodate new growth and development. Land dedication is required for community parks, neighborhood parks and for recreational facilities needed to equip each park. The city has the option of requiring land within the subdivision to be dedicated or can require the development to pay a fee in lieu of park land. In some instances the city may determine that there is not suitable land for a park or a park may be planned near to the proposed development. In this case, a fee would be collected by the city to purchase park land in accordance with the locations and standards prescribed in this plan. The city regularly updates the per acre value for land in the area. The formula used by the city to determine the amount of land required to be dedicated is continually updated based on the needs of the city. The city establishes the nexus between the parks and facilities needs of the community and the amount of land required. This number is used to calculate fees paid to the city in lieu of land. In addition, the city must update the per acre value required to acquire new park land. The development of the proposed parks in this plan will primarily be funded using the park dedication requirements. Community, Neighborhood and Mini Parks should be fully funded using park dedication requirements. The Big Ideas presented in this plan, such as a Large Urban Park, will likely require additional funding sources. The city also uses general tax dollars to purchase or acquire land in the existing portions of the city if necessary. E. 2004 Community Park and Recreation Survey Summary This section provides a summary of the 2004 Park and Recreation Survey and offers Park and Recreation Committee assessments that link survey responses to critical features of the Park Master Plan. 14 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 The survey instrument was designed by the Parks and Recreation committee and authorized by the City Council in March of 2004. The goals of the survey were to: 1. Understand the citizens’ priorities and satisfaction related to city parks and recreation facilities and activities. 2. Create a “voice of the community” for the purpose of the Park Master Plan process. The survey was sent to 1900 homes, with 426 (22%) responses. Not all questions were answered by all participants. The following summary presents only the major themes identified by the responses. For a complete review of the survey please see the Appendix. Relevant Highlights for the 2005 Park Master Plan (See Appendix B) 1. Current Satisfaction - Level of Service When asked how well the city was performing, the majority of responses fell in “good” or across “good” and “fair” performance. Topics included – places for activities and sports, safety, and natural areas As a percentage the “don’t know” choice accounted for a higher than expected proportion Active recreation availability scored well Master Plan Assessment: the current level of service is perceived to be good - not exceptional, not weak. 2. Parks Neighborhood Parks* Want park/playground in the local neighborhood Want age-appropriate play equipment, especially for older children (pre-teen) Concerns about crossing roads Perceived inequities *In the survey context, “Neighborhood Park” was not defined as currently presented in the Master Plan Master Plan Assessment: While existing parks score well, comments regarding placement, access, and facilities indicate an opportunity for improvement in service area and facility standards 3. Trails The most important facility to households is walking and biking trails Like the existing trail system, better connections are desired Lack of trails in some neighborhoods 15 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Comments included specific requests for various locations Master Plan Assessment: The Master Plan must make trails a priority – high level of participation, high priority for investment, requests for improvements. 4. Alternative Sources of Recreation Parks do not contain the facilities people need Members of households use facilities in other communities Fees are too expensive Master Plan Assessment: The Master Plan recommendations must consider competitive alternatives available in adjacent cities. 5. Funding Priorities Citizens were asked to rank the priority of spending across the following options if additional funds were available. Improvements/maintenance of existing trails Acquisition/development of walking and biking trails Development of special facilities (dog parks, water playgrounds, campgrounds, skate parks, etc) Construction of environmental facilities Acquisition of open space areas and areas for preservation Additional neighborhood parks Development of and indoor nature/environmental center Swimming pool (outdoor) Swimming pool (indoor) Master Plan Assessment: trails are an important based on use and funding priority. The pool generated many comments, but is a lower funding priority 16 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 IV. PARK SYSTEM ORGANIZATION A. Organizational Format Parks have been classified or reclassified into six new categories using park types previously established by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and additional definitions established through this plan. The six types are as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Large Urban Park Community Park Neighborhood Park Mini Park Sports Complex Open Space The Park and Recreation Committee, city staff and consultant (referred to as the “planning team” or “team”) assessed the existing parks to determine their type based on the criteria established by the NRPA and by the planning team. The existing park system was somewhat difficult to categorize due to the size of certain parks. Within the existing system some parks may function as a certain type of park even though their overall size is less than that typically recommended by the national standard. It was recognized by the planning team that existing parks had limited expansion possibility and therefore, when categorizing, emphasis was placed on their function as well as size. Definitions for new park facilities are generally based on the national standard for both size and function. Park definitions or names used prior to this plan document should not be considered to match the new definitions. B. Level of Service Summary The planning team assessed the service area coverage using industry standards such as those developed by the National Recreation and Parks Association. It was determined through this process that Victoria needed to add two additional classifications to the park system in order to accommodate parks that will be needed in the future. Both Large Urban Park and Sports Complex were not previously identified as possible existing or future parks. It was also identified that an expanded definition of certain park types needed to be established that was pertinent to the growth and development specific to Victoria. In order to establish the level of service standards for each of the facilities and park types identified, the team first compiled an inventory of the existing parks and their facilities (See Figure 2 and 3). With this inventory, the team established a per population ratio of park types and facilities. The team then used this information to evaluate the existing level of service provided and the adequacy of each. 17 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 In general, Victoria meets or exceeds the level of service requirements established by the NRPA with only a few exceptions. In many areas, the city exceeds the criteria developed by the NPRA. In most cases where the city exceeded levels of service provided, the excess can be justified based on the current demand for those parks and facilities. The existing Victoria standards were evaluated in conjunction with the national standards to establish the new standards that Victoria will use moving forward. Victoria’s parks were classified as follows based on “Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Guidelines” developed in 1996 by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) (See Figure 2): Large Urban Park – Serves a broader purpose than community parks and is used when community and neighborhood parks are not adequate to serve the needs of the community. Focus is on meeting community-based recreational needs, as well as preserving unique landscapes and open spaces. A minimum of 75 acres with 100 acres or more being optimal. Key Attributes Service Area: Citywide Size: 75-100 acres Standard: 100 acres per 15,000, 70% passive recreation and 30 % active recreation area. Community Park – Serves a broader purpose than a neighborhood park, although community parks may contain certain park components benefiting adjacent neighborhoods. Focus is on meeting community-based recreational needs, as well as preserving unique landscapes and open spaces. Key Attributes Service Area: Citywide – geographically distributed. 1 to 3 mile service area depending on geographic boundaries or limitation in access such as State Highways (Highways 7 and 5) Size: 30 – 50 acres Standard: 13 acres/1,000 population, with 60% passive recreation and 40 % active recreation area. Must have three (3) points of public access. Two (2) must allow vehicular access directly from a public right of way. Neighborhood Park – The basic unit of the park system and serves as the recreational and social focus of the neighborhood. Intended to serve residents primarily within safe walking distance. Neighborhood parks cannot serve areas that access the park via a road crossing over the following roads: CSAH 11, 13, 18, 43 and State Highways 5 and 7 unless a grade separated crossing is provided. Must include a regulation size soccer/football/lacrosse field or a baseball/softball field and any combination of three (3) of the following activities: 18 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 children’s play equipment basketball and/or tennis courts outdoor hockey rink with boards or recreational rink with site for warming house off-street parking trails into and around the park from adjoining residential neighborhoods picnic shelter/bathrooms waterfront access. neighborhood parks may be developed in conjunction with elementary schools. Key Attributes Service Area: ½ - 1 mile service distance and uninterrupted by non-residential roads Size: 5-15 acres Standard: 8 acres/1,000 population Must have two (2) points of public access. One (1) must allow vehicular access directly from a public right of way. Mini-Park – Used to address limited, isolated or unique recreational needs. Mini parks will be developed only in areas where a neighborhood park cannot be developed now or in the future due to land acquisition restrictions. Typically provides a limited function with features that may include basketball, tennis court, or children’s play equipment. Mini-parks do not meet the definition of a neighborhood park, but typically provides a limited function with features that may include basketball, tennis court, or children’s play equipment. Key Attributes Service Area: ¼ mile Size: 5,000 sq. ft to 2 acres Standard: 0.5 acres/1,000 population Must have one (1) points of public access directly from a public right of way. Multiple points of access are encouraged. *Above and beyond the contribution to their designated neighborhood or community park, a developer may also develop a mini-park. Such discretional parks shall adhere to the guidelines presented in City Ordinances and the Park Master Plan. Sports Complex – A sports complex is a multi-purpose active recreation facility designed to meet the specific needs of organized and recreational athletics. The location of a sports complex must accommodate the practical requirements of such a facility including suitable access roads, parking, restrooms, and field lighting. Commercial developments offer a suitable location. Sports Complexes shall include the services 19 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 previously listed, plus concessions stands, athletic equipment storage, management office, maintenance equipment storage, and at least three (3) of the following elements: 2-4 Lit Softball Fields 2-4 Lit Baseball Fields 2-6 Lit Soccer Fields 2-4 Lit Hockey Rinks 1 Recreational Rink 1 High-level Community Baseball Field (with grandstand and suitable parking) Pavilion w/restrooms, concessions Sports complexes may be built and/or operated with private or public partners. Key Attributes Service Area: Citywide 50 to 75 acres Standard: One per 15,000 population Open Space – Lands set aside for preservation of significant natural resources, remnant landscapes and open space. Open space shall be comprised of significant natural resources such as a hardwood stand of trees, wetlands, key drainage ways, steep slopes with significant vegetation and lakes and ponds. Key Attributes Service Area: City –wide Size: Any Standard: 50 acres/1,000 population Trail Systems – Systems developed to accommodate walking, hiking, jogging, and bicycling. New trails must connect to existing trails and connect open space and recreation or civic facilities to exiting or new residential, commercial and retail areas in the city and beyond. Trails may be developed as multi-purpose trails which can accommodate multiple activities. Key Attributes Standard: Walking/hiking/jogging: 1.1 miles/1,000 population Bicycling: .7 miles/1,000 population C. Current Park Inventory - General Observations and Reactions Observations made during the development of this plan indicate both current problems and potential opportunities for parks and recreational facilities. In general: 20 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 The following summarizes the team’s conclusions: Victoria has a significant park system advantage due to the location of the Carver Park Preserve which is owned and maintained by Three Rivers Park District. Victoria is generally well served by the community parks (Lion’s, Deithelm, and Laketown Parks). As the community continues to grow the location of new community park facilities will be necessary. Generally, the number of parks and types of facilities will be consistent with those already developed so that the level of service that is seen today will not adversely change with the additional growth set to occur in the community. The city will increase the level of service provided by incorporating several new types of facilities (i.e. Sports Complex and Large Urban Park). Victoria lacks an adequate number of neighborhood parks that are located in the community. Because of this, many Victoria residents have to drive and or cross major roadways to enjoy many of the recreational opportunities provided for in the community. Neighborhood parks should make up the majority of the park facilities in the community and provide the primary recreation opportunity for residents. When compared with national standards and Victoria standards, many of the existing neighborhood parks lack in facilities and do not have adequate active recreation opportunities. Some of this can be remedied by the development of park land currently owned by the city; however, in some areas there is no longer an opportunity to obtain additional land. Opportunities could include a regulation athletic field that would allow for the programming of recreational opportunities and the neighborhood levels. Currently, residents have to travel to Community Parks to use these facilities. Victoria has 14 mini-parks that serve the community. These parks provide limited recreation opportunities and should not be constructed in areas where a neighborhood park should be the primary park. The city has several areas that will continue to be serviced by mini-parks due to restrictions in the acquisition of land. Victoria has a need for an additional large urban park that will service future and present residents of the city. This park will likely be within the future annexation area and located between CSAH 10 and Marsh Lake Road and between CSAH 43 and CSAH 11. This park will serve as the “star park” in the system and will be one of high amenity and recreational opportunity. 21 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan V. EXISTING PARK SYSTEM A. Analysis of Conditions December 22, 2005 Victoria has approximately 250 acres of existing parkland spread throughout 27 parks within the current city limits. Victoria has three (3) Community Parks, six (6) Neighborhood Parks, nine (9) Mini-Parks and approximately five (5) specifically designated open space areas within the community. Carver Park Preserve, while significant, is not owned or operated by the city and therefore not included in the acreage or park totals (approximately 500 acres currently within Victoria). Conditions of the existing facilities were analyzed by the planning team during the development of this plan. Each park was evaluated to determine its current condition and to realize opportunities for development of additional facilities or redevelopment of existing facilities. Development recommendations are based on physical opportunities and constraints, the new level of service standards, the desire to balance facilities across the park system, and input to date from neighborhood groups. Following the evaluation of each park many ideas and or opportunities were discussed by the planning team. The analysis of the existing facilities helped the team establish the level of service and park standards incorporated into this plan. Recommendations made for each of the existing parks are only conceptual and do not represent a formal recommendation by the planning team. The recommendations will need to be further evaluated by the Park and Recreation Committee and City Council to determine what improvements can and should be made. The following inventory and recommendations are organized by park type. Community Parks Diethelm Park Location: Diethelm Park is located at the corner of Kochia Lane and 86th St. W. Existing: This park contains the field house and the Acorn House, and unlit fields, consisting of one baseball field, two softball fields, and three soccer fields. It has a miniature basketball court and a skate park in the same area. There are toddler and youth play structures with several (6) benches in the same area. There are trails and sidewalks leading to the play structures and connecting much of the property. There is a permanent bathroom in the field house which is available when the field house is open. Portable latrines are primarily used. While there is quite a lot of parking, it appears that it could be insufficient for some events or multiple events. All items appear to be in good condition. The fields look to be particularly well kept. 22 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Recommendations: The park presents opportunities to add drinking fountains and toilet facilities that are more proximate to the fields. A sheltered picnic area would also be a nice feature. There is no meaningful shelter available in case of inclement weather or strong sunshine with the possible exception of the field house and baseball dugouts. The park is also suitable for an outdoor skating and hockey rink, including outdoor rental ice for added revenue. The kids would like new and better ramps in the skate park. The existing ball fields are planned to be lighted in the future. Lions Park: Location: Lions Park is located a few block south of downtown Victoria on the corner of County Roads 11 and 18. Existing: This community park is widely considered to be the centerpiece of the Victoria parks system, and the community itself. Developed in cooperation between the Victoria Lions and the City, the park provides mostly active recreation opportunities with several fields, an outside hockey rink, two (2) tennis courts, a play structure and two shelters. The park is served by trails, but has no trails on the property. The park has two gravel parking lots. Several facilities show significant signs of aging. Recommendations: This park is suitable for a rehabilitation plan as well as a plan to add features such as paved parking, paved trails leading through the park, irrigation, trash receptacles, and other amenities to support its heavy use. A rehabilitation plan should address repair due to vandalism, normal use, neglect, and age. The existing tennis courts will need to be resurfaced in order to remain useable. These courts have been included in the existing count and allow the city to meet the established standards. There is limited undeveloped space, but the park could accommodate horseshoes, Frisbee golf or other low foot-print facilities within the community park service list. A volleyball court could be placed in the location of the previous playground equipment on 82nd Street. Laketown Park/Victoria Elementary: Location: Laketown Park is part of the new elementary school development off of Laketown Road and County Road 11. Existing: The school and park are new (2005) and has 1 unlit baseball field, 1 unlit softball field, 2 soccer/football fields, basketball courts (2 half court and 1 full court), youth play structure, trail, ample parking, drinking fountain, and trash receptacles. Recommendations: Place sign off of County Road 11 to identify location of the park/school, paint the basketball courts, add benches or picnic tables, and connect the trail to the other neighborhoods around as the park develops. 23 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Neighborhood Parks Noterman Park: (Allegheny Grove 4th Addition) Location: Kochia Lane is on the eastern border, Linden Lane is on the south with Savanna Way/Trail on the north Existing: Noterman is an undeveloped park consisting primarily of mature woods and grassy openings. The park does not have a trail that is in good condition. Recommendations: The trail could be incorporated into the rest of the trail system. Picnic tables could be added to the open areas. The trail could have several workout stations (chin-up bars, sit-up area, etc.) installed along its length and include interpretive signage. Goodman Park: Location: Off of Park Drive, between Parkview Lane and 74th St. W, near Carver Park Reserve. Existing: Unimproved land with a low area near road and a north flowing creek on the east side. Approximately 50/50 woods and meadow. Recommendations: An open soccer style field could be built near the road in the low area filled in with soil, a nature trail can be installed with an overlook are by the creek, a rest area or way station could be added at the borders of the LRT trail system, or a youth play structure, and possible parking. Neighbors of Goodman park have expressed a variety of views surrounding development of this park. South Virginia Shores: Location: Located off of Smithtown Road and Virginia Shores Circle, this is the only park north of Highway 7. Existing: This park encompasses a fairly large tract of land, most of which is currently in a natural wooded state. The facilities at this park consist of one tennis court and a ½ basketball court. There is also a small play structure at this location. There are no trails leading directly to the park or along Smithtown Road. There is limited unpaved parking at this location. Recommendations: A trail should be developed to connect this park to the surrounding neighborhoods and to the LRT to increase access, as well as, paving the parking area. All of the current facilities at this park require upgrading or replacement including the existing tennis and basketball courts. The tennis court should remain, and the remainder of the site should be developed in a manner 24 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 consistent with the needs of the community and in accordance with the Park Master Plan. Watermark Park: Location: Located in the Watermark development off Church Lake Blvd. The park is behind residential housing and borders the west side of Kelzer Pond. Existing: The neighborhood park is long and narrow with a trail running through its length. It contains a toddler play structure and has several street side parking spots. The open area has a trail system. Recommendations: This park is relatively new and the equipment is in good condition. Because of its long narrow layout, it is amenable to new installations. The open areas could have a more developed trail system. A nature or wetlands interpretation station could be added, including a fishing dock. Mini-Parks Church Lake Park: Location: Church Lake Park is considered open space and is located on the Western edge of Victoria Circle, along the Eastern edge of Church Lake. Existing: The narrow park is completely unimproved with the exception of a City pump house and a park sign. The park runs parallel to a neighborhood road and has poorly defined road for the pump house that can serve as a parking area. The lake side is bordered by a stand of cat tails and a small pond. The park has been used as a dumping location for yard clippings. Despite its beautiful physical surroundings, the park appears to be largely neglected. Recommendations: The physical appearance of the park would be improved by enhancing the landscaping and by shielding or placing an updated façade on the pump house. Deer Run Park I Location: This property is located in the Deer Run Development at the intersection of Ridge Pond Court and Ridge Pond Drive. Existing: The park is rather well equipped for its size. However, it is in need of maintenance. It contains a tennis court, a ½ basketball court that is also equipped for volleyball. It has a sizeable play structure, one picnic table, and one bench. There are perhaps six off street parking spaces as well as on street parking. 25 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Recommendations: There is limited development potential at this site due to its size. The courts are in great need of resurfacing. They are cracked and worn. One could convert the basketball court to a skate park very easily. A picnic area could also easily be added. Deer Run Park II Location: This Property is located in the Deer Run Development near the intersection of Edgewater Place and Wedgemere Point. Existing: The Property has very a limited amount of space. It contains a small play structure, a bench, and a picnic table. All are in reasonable condition. Street parking is available. Recommendations: There is very little new that can be achieved with this property. It is limited in size with a large portion being hilly or low lying, but would be a possible option for a sliding hill. Holy Family Tennis Courts: Location: Located on the grounds of Holy Family High School at the intersection off of Kochia Lane. Existing: The park contains eight (8) unlit tennis courts that are relatively new and in good condition. A large parking lot is adjacent to the tennis courts. There are several chairs between the courts and a portable bathroom on site. Recommendations: This park should be maintained in its current state, in partnership with Holy Family Catholic High School. There is potential for a permanent bathroom and drinking fountain. Katy Hills Park: Location: Katy Hills is located on 81st Street to the East of Victoria Drive, County Road 11. Existing: Built on roughly one acre of land, Katy Hills Park is surrounded on three sides by residential streets and houses on one side. The park is well landscaped and has a small trail that transverses the property. The central feature is a two component play structure that appears to date to the 1980s. The park is in generally good condition. Recommendations: Katy Hills presents few opportunities for improvement other than benches, tables, and eventual play equipment upgrades. 26 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Kelzer Pond Park: Location: Off of Kelzer Pond Drive near Thrushwood Circle. Located behind the homes on the east side of Kelzer Pond. Existing: The park sits on a hill on the northwest side of Kelzer Pond with approximately 200 feet of pond shoreline. A trail runs through the park and it has a youth play structure. A trash container is on site. The south side of the hill has a wonderful view of the pond and is currently overgrown with grass. Recommendations: The south side of the hill could be leveled out and a picnic area could be installed with tables and possibly a small covered pavilion. The pond shoreline could be the site of a fishing dock as several spots work well. Kirkelachen Park: Location: Kirkelachen Park is located at the primary entry to the Kirkelachen neighborhood on 81st Avenue, bound to the north by the LRT trail. Existing: This mini park contains a tennis court and a small area with recently planted trees. The Northern edge of the park is bound by a run-off pond. The park also serves as the western trail head of the LRT trail; however there are no signs or facilities to accommodate that function. There are approximately three parking spots parallel to the street. Recommendations: The Kirkelachen residents have express interest in improving their park. A Learning Service project was conducted in early 2005 for the park, which, in combination with resident input, should serve as the basis for park improvement ideas. This park is suitable for a rehabilitation plan as well as a plan to add features such as benches, picnic tables, a gazebo, a scenic overlook, and other amenities to support uses of the trail. The existing tennis court is not functional. Facilities to support trail users should be balanced with development of the trail head in downtown Victoria and the interests of the neighborhood residents. There are opportunities for passive recreation in conjunction with Salter’s Park. Overlook at Tamarack Lake: Location: Located on the West shore of Tamarack Lake, directly south of the LRT line. Existing: The park is currently undeveloped wooded space with a bench and views of Lake Tamarack. The park is accessed by a paved trail from the Overlook at Tamarack Lake Subdivisions and the LRT. There is no equipment or maintained facilities in this park 27 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Recommendations: There is a potential for this lake to accommodate a swimming beach, however, this may not be conducive to the overall vision for the park preserve. This park may serve the city better as a passive recreation area to be included in the overall development of the Lake Tamarack Park Preserve. Salter’s Park: Location: Located just south of Highway 5 in downtown Victoria. Existing: There are currently no facilities located at this park. The majority of the land is wooded although there is a large open space at the top of the park. There are good views to Carver Park Preserve due to the change in elevation. Recommendations: There is a potential to develop a trail-head to the regional trail due to the close proximity that this park has to downtown and acts as the “trail gateway” to the west. Swiss Mountain: Location: Located in the Swiss Mountain Subdivision at the intersection of Interlaken and Saint Moritz. Existing: The park is surrounded by existing single-family homes and contains a play structure, separate swing set and one picnic table. A paved trail connects this park to the LRT. Recommendations: This park should be maintained in its current condition as a Mini-Park. Swiss Mountain Open Spaces Location: These properties are somewhat disjointed. They surround the northern portion of Tamarack Lake and are adjacent to the Swiss Mountain Development. The LRT trail runs through most of the properties. Existing: The properties are now lying in a natural state with no meaningful access by car. However, the LRT trail runs through the area and makes it accessible by bicycle or on foot. Recommendations: These properties could easily be developed into a nature preserve with walking trails, including a trail around the lake that ties into the Lake Tamarack Preserve. (along the lines of Woodlake preserve in Richfield). The lake water quality appears to be quite good and would be fine for swimming. However, creating a beach would be problematic due to the marshy character of the property. Perhaps a development in conjunction with The Arboretum would be possible. 28 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Wintergreen Park Location: Wintergreen Park is located in the Wintergreen Development at the corner of Rhoy Street and Wintergreen Lane. Existing: The park consists of a sizeable play structure on one end of the park and open mowed grass on the remainder. There are trails to the play structure and continuing on through the park. Street parking is available. There are two benches and one picnic table near the play structure. All are in good repair. The trash receptacles are in poor condition. Recommendations: The property could easily contain another amenity on the grass portion. However, little more than a tennis court would fit. There appear to be a large number of kids living in the area. A skate park would fit easily and would probably be well used. Size would limit other options for development. Woodlands Park Location: Woodlands park is in the Woodlands Addition between Oak Drive and Tilia Lane. Existing: The park currently contains a toddler play structure with four adjacent benches and a cobblestone path to the play area. It has a gravel trail running the length of the park. The trail is surrounded by land in its natural state. It connects as a continuation of the Victoria trail system. There is only street parking available. The structures are in good repair. Recommendations: Size is a limiting factor. Trail should be upgraded to a bituminous trail. Any further addition of amenities would be at the expense of the natural setting. The neighbors should be consulted first. Zumbra Ridge: Location: Located off of Zumbra Drive, South of Highway 7. Existing: This private park consists of a relatively large mowed area containing a softball backstop and field in addition to two play structures. There is also one picnic table and one bench at this site. Recommendations: This park should be maintained and upgraded in a manner consistent with the needs of the neighborhood and in accordance with the Park Master Plan. 29 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan B. December 22, 2005 Existing Facilities Victoria has inventoried its existing facilities and fields and evaluated the adequacy against the national standards derived by the NPRA. The NPRA has established a benchmark with standards for the city to compare itself against. The standards set forth the ratio of facilities (such as the number of soccer fields per 1,000 residents) to population that, if followed, provide appropriate levels for the residents. Victoria generally exceeds the standards in all areas with several exceptions. Many communities adopt the national standards as their own for simplicity. The national standards, the community survey, and the existing facilities inventory were all tools used to establish Victoria’s own standard. (See Figure 3) The standards established by this document took into account many different variables and criteria. It is believed that the standards developed through this plan will better and more fully accommodate the needs of this community for the future generations of parks and recreation users. Victoria falls short of meeting the national standards in two areas; hockey and recreational skating rinks and lighted fields. These deficiencies were considered when establishing the new standards. The popularity of hockey and skating in this area further highlight the need for additional facilities. Lighted fields in the city are just short of meeting the national standards. The city has recently reviewed this issue and found that the demand for lighted fields did not justify the cost given various constraints. It is anticipated that this issue will reviewed again in the near future by the city. These facilities will become priorities for future development within both the existing and future system. C. Existing Trails The Community Survey completed in 2004 identified one primary theme that stood out from all others; the importance of trails and trail connectivity. Residents of Victoria stated that the trails were the most used and most needed recreational facility provided by the city. Trails provide a major opportunity for recreation within the community as well as providing an important transportation link between houses and facilities. The trail system in Victoria is relatively new with the exception of the Regional LRT line that runs through Victoria from the northeast. Victoria began requiring new trails in conjunction with new development during the early 1990s following the adoption of the park dedication requirements in the Subdivision Ordinance. The initial trails often consisted of gravel and or narrow sidewalks. Victoria now requires that new development provide new trails in accordance with the adopted trail plan (See Plan). All trails are required to meet the cities adopted construction specifications. In general, all trails are required to be bituminous with a width of eight and one-half feet. Many of the new developments are now linked by bituminous trails. 30 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Trails are typically broken into two categories; on-street trails and off-street trails. Onstreet trails provide a safe (visible), open and direct opportunity for both connectivity and recreation. These are the primary trails in the trail system and typically the most widely used. Off-street trails typically take advantage of a natural amenity and provide users with a more sensory experience. While these trails may connect different facilities and places, they are typically focused on the actual trip and not necessarily the destination. Victoria has both types of trails within the park system. Both types of trails will remain important during future development of this system. Trails should generally accommodate or provide for the following: Provide safe pedestrian access to all parks. Connect all parks, natural amenities, civic buildings, schools. Connect Victoria to regional parks and facilities and adjoining community external trails where possible. In reviewing the existing trail system for completeness, it was determined that there are several gaps in the system that need to be filled. The Existing Trail Map indicates the existing trail system and the proposed infill pieces that will need to be constructed in order to complete the system. The majority of the infill pieces are located adjacent to property that has yet to develop. Upon the development of the property, the trails will need to be constructed. The city does not control the timeframe for the development of private property and therefore it is possible that the city may want to develop certain portions of trail prior to the development of the property occurring. The planning team has reviewed the portions of infill trail that need to be constructed and have prioritized construction as delineated below. A trail link from Smithtown Road to the LRT trail at the grade separated crossing beneath State Highway 7 should be constructed to provide a safe link to the residents located north of the highway. This connection was reviewed in the field and it appears to be feasible by obtaining a use permit for the right of way along State Highway 7 and be utilizing the city owned park land. Approximate length of trail to complete connection: 3,000 linear feet. A trail link between the existing trail at the intersection of CSAH 11 and CSAH 18 should be constructed to the west along CSAH 43 and connect into the trail at the Watermark Development. There is currently a gap in the trail system that will connect all development along CSAH 43 to the city trail system. This link will be difficult to build due to the steep slopes and limited right of way. Acquisition of an easement on private property may be necessary to complete this trail. Approximate length of trail to complete connection: 1,800 linear feet. A trail link between the Woodland’s Development/Greenway on the Park and the trails along Kochia Lane and 86th Street should be constructed through Diethelm 31 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Park. There is currently no way to access the interior of Diethelm Park from any of the surrounding developments. Approximate length of trail to complete connection: 2,000 linear feet. A trail link between Lion’s Park and the existing residential development to the east of the park should be constructed through the park. This would provide access into the interior of the park via a paved trail. Approximate length of trail to complete connection: 750 linear feet. A trail link between Holy Family High School and State Highway 5 along the projected path of Kochia Lane. There is an existing trail along the northwest side of Kochia lane that ends along with the road. It is anticipated that this trail will be extended to the north in conjunction with the construction of the new road. Approximate length of trail to complete connection: 2,700 linear feet. A trail link between the Laketown development on CSAH 11 and the existing trail at the intersection of 86th Street and CSAH 11. There is a portion of trail that is currently missing along CSAH 11 that will connect the Laketown Development (Victoria Elementary School) and the existing trail along CSAH 11. Approximate length of trail to complete connection: 2,700 linear feet. There are other trail connections shown on the trail map that will need to be constructed and have not been prioritized as a part of this plan. The remaining pieces of trail infill are as follows: Connection of the trails along the east side of Rolling Acres Road. Establish a trail along Smithtown Road. New trail from downtown Victoria to the entrance of Auburn Lake Campground in Carver Park Preserve. This trail will likely be located along the east side of CSAH 11. Establish a trail along the north side of State Highway 7 from Smithtown Road west to Minnetrista. This trail could ultimately connect to the Lake Minnetonka Regional Park. Establish a trail along the north side of State Highway 5 connecting the existing trail at Park Drive east to the trail at Minnewashta Parkway. Establish a trail along the west side of Bavaria Road from the Applewood subdivision, across State Highway 5, and then along the east side of Rolling Acres Road to the existing trail in the Overlook at Tamarack Lake subdivision. 32 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 VI. FUTURE PARK SYSTEM A. Future Park Development Analysis of the existing park system, trails and facilities has enabled the city to better understand the needs of the community and its residents. A firm understanding and assessment of the community needs led to the establishment of the level of service standards for new park types and facilities as defined in a previous section. Using these standards, the city has projected the needs of the community based on future growth and in turn provides a plan to accommodate those needs through the year 2020. Victoria will develop two (2) new community parks, twenty (20) new neighborhood parks, one (1) sports complex and one (1) large urban park over the next 15 years. In reviewing the existing park system, assessing the feedback provided by the residents in the community survey, and comparing Victoria against the national standards, it became evident that the focus of the future park system should be neighborhood parks. Neighborhood parks should provide the primary opportunity for recreation in the system. These parks should provide for this within a safe walking distance from every residence. Victoria has generally set aside an adequate amount of land for neighborhood parks but has not developed the parks to fully meet the needs of the community Victoria’s future park system will be developed in accordance with the standards and guidelines established in this document. The plan indicates the proposed types and number of parks and facilities. This information is shown on the Future Park map. Land Acquisition Victoria will acquire new park land primarily through the dedication of land as required by the city Subdivision Ordinance. This plan identifies the approximate location of future parks by taking the level of service area for each park type and projecting it onto the future growth area of the city. The parks are spaced according to the standards established by the city. It was the intent of this plan to locate parks on property boundaries. In most instances this will allow the city to require the dedication from several property owners which when combined will provide the acreage needed to meet the acreage standards. Actual locations of future parks will be determined by studying field conditions at the time the land is developed. Preservation of Existing Natural Resources / Open Space The natural environment of Victoria was last inventoried and analyzed by the city in 1997 as a part of the Comprehensive Plan. It was found that the quality of the natural environment was outstanding. The city’s waterways, lakes, woodlands, wetlands, hills and parks all contribute to a highly favorable environment. The community through its strategic comprehensive plan has made the preservation of these resources part of the community-wide goals. Development of the city due to growth will cause some loss or 33 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 alteration of the natural environment. It is for this reason that the city will need to focus on the protection and preservation of the most unique and desirable features. Victoria has established policies and procedures in both the Subdivision and Zoning Ordinance that will help to protect the existing lakes, woodlands, wetlands and hills. The Zoning Ordinance includes Tree Preservation Requirements which provide for the preservation of existing woodland stands. The Shoreland Zoning District has established setback criteria from lakes and streams to ensure the preservation of these amenities. The city encourages the private development of lake shore property for public open space similar in concept to that developed by the City of Minneapolis around the chain of lakes. The city requires that wetlands and their respective buffers are left as public open space. Steep slopes are also protected through the Zoning Ordinance. The city has worked to innovatively incorporate significant natural resources into the design of new developments and parks. In doing this, Victoria has acquired a diverse portfolio of open and natural spaces which makes up a significant part of the park system. Moving forward, the park system will be used as a tool to protect and preserve significant natural resources in the community. Victoria will look to preserve additional open space using existing requirements set forth in the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances and by developing new strategies. The city will look at opportunities to obtain grants and public funding for the preservation of open space and important environmental amenities. Private/public partnerships will also be encouraged as opportunities arise for the additional preservation of open space. B. Future Facility Development New facilities will be developed within each park type according to the menu prescribed in the level of service standards. As previously stated the majority of future parks will be dedicated to the city and developed at the time the land is subdivided. Development of the future facilities should be done simultaneously to the development of the parks. This will ensure adherence to the master plan and the standards established. The city will need to manage the development of the new parks and facilities so that the number and type of facilities continues to follow the standards established. In order to do this, a current inventory will need to be maintained by the city. When a new park is developed the city will provide input and direction into the types and kinds of facilities required for each park. When Victoria reaches the projected 2020 population, it would need to develop the following types and number of facilities in order to meet the goals established by this plan. 7 - Baseball Fields (light 50%) 34 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan 17 - Basketball Goals 4 - Hockey Rinks (light 25%) 9 - Multi – Use (Soccer/Football) (light 25%) 10 – Playgrounds 4 - Recreational Skating Areas (light 25%) 2 - Skate Parks 14 - Softball Fields (light 50%) 13 - Tennis Courts (light 50%) 1 – Vita Course (programmed exercise course) 5 – Volleyball Courts December 22, 2005 * Facilities in bold currently do not meet the standards established by this Master Plan. C. Future Trail Development Trails will continue to provide a major opportunity for recreation within the community as well as providing an important transportation link between houses and facilities. Trails in combination with the Green Ribbon system will work to seamlessly link parks and natural amenities with residences, businesses and civic places throughout the community. This trail system will provide for both passive and active recreation opportunities and will make important connections to regional trails were possible. Future Trails will be developed in accordance with the trail plan developed in this plan. New trails will primarily be developed in conjunction with the subdivision and development of land. Alignment of trails is conceptual to reflect connection goals not exact locations. Exact locations will be determined by studying field conditions at the time of development. There are several trail corridors that when fully developed will form the backbone of the future trail system. The extension of the LRT line from downtown Victoria to the western edge of the future city will create a major corridor through Victoria linking many important features and amenities. 35 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 The development of the regional trail corridor connecting the LRT south to the existing trail in Chaska in accordance with the plans established by Carver County. This trail will ultimately link the Minnesota River Trail to the LRT providing a major regional connection extending far beyond Carver County. The development of a trail connecting Victoria’s existing downtown to the proposed urban node planned near the intersection of CSAH 11 and CSAH 10. 36 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 VII. REGIONAL OPPORTUNITIES The master plan team has examined the regional systems that are within or adjacent to the City of Victoria. Through this process there were several opportunities that were identified. These include city-wide trail links, greenways to and connecting major lakes and parks within the area, a partnership with Three Rivers Park District, a Partnership with the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and the development of a regional trail corridor that would connect Victoria to a the regional system being developed by Carver County. The illustrations on the following pages illustrate the sum of potential regional opportunities. Neighboring Communities Chanhassen Victoria has an existing trail connection which currently links the cities at the intersection of Minnewashta Pkwy. And State Highway 5. This link is important because it will ultimately tie into the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum at this point. The City of Chanhassen is planning to extend a trail along the north side of CSAH 5 to Minnewashta Parkway. This will complete a link that will take you from downtown Chanhassen to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Chaska Victoria has worked with Chaska in the past to develop connections between the existing trail systems in each city. In 2004 an important connection was made along Bavaria Road at 86th Street. Both cities are working with Carver County to develop a Regional Trail link near the intersection of CSAH 11 and Shady Oak Drive near Lake Bavaria. A trail connection is also being reviewed at the intersection of Marsh Lake Road and CSAH 11. Waconia Victoria and Waconia each will annex portions of Laketown Township in the future. Within this annexation area there is an abandoned railway bed which if protected and developed will create an extension of the LRT trail which currently ends in downtown Victoria. Victoria and Waconia have agreed to work at making this connection so that there is a link between the two cities. This link is also important because it will link Carver Park Preserve and the Lake Waconia Regional Park via a trail connection. Minnetrista In 2005 Minnetrista completed a conceptual Park and Trail Master Plan. In reviewing this plan with the city, there are two possible trail connections that need to be further researched to determine their feasibility. Minnetrista is planning a trail corridor along the north side of State Highway 7 that would extend to the western boundary of Victoria. If 37 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 it is possible to connect to this trail it would provide for a link to the Lake Minnetonka Regional Park located at the intersection of Kings Road and State Highway 7. Minnetrista is also proposing a second connection to Victoria near the intersection of CSAH 11 and State Highway 7 in Carver Park Preserve. This connection could potentially link Victoria to the proposed Dakota Regional Trail in Hennepin County. Metropolitan Council/Three Rivers Park District Victoria has been working with Three Rivers Park District to better integrate the city with Carver Park Preserve. Two opportunities were identified that would create a better connection between Carver Park Preserve and Victoria. A trail connection from downtown into the western side of the park has been reviewed with the Park District. This connection would provide a more direct link into the park and to such facilities as the Lowry Nature Center and the Auburn Lake Campground. This connection would originate in downtown and run through the park along the eastern side of CSAH 11. The second opportunity is to develop a gathering area/trail head in downtown near the intersection of the LRT and Stieger Lake Lane. This space could become a focal point in downtown and would create a vital connection between the park preserve and downtown businesses. Carver County As previously mentioned Victoria and Chaska have been working with Carver County to develop a Regional Trail corridor between the two cities. This corridor has been incorporated into the proposed future trail system for both cities. DNR The DNR has two public boat launch facilities within Victoria. One, located on the western shore of Lake Virginia was recently reconstructed by the DNR. The city worked with the DNR on the reconstruction. The second is located on the northern shore of Lake Wasserman. This boat launch will ultimately need to be reconstructed in the future. Victoria will work with the DNR to ensure that this will occur. 38 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 VIII. GENERAL GUIDELINES AND STANDARDS A. Programming Balance This plan provides level of service standards for facilities and park types to guide new park development within the city. It will be necessary for the city to manage the development of new parks and the redevelopment of existing parks in the city. The development of new parks and facilities will require the careful consideration and review of the city so that park assets are balanced across all parks. Balancing the programming and development of new park facilities will prevent several parks in one area from unconsciously making the same “menu” decisions. The Park and Recreation Committee will need to work closely with the Planning Commission to ensure a logical outcome is achieved. B. Architectural Standards The city will use architectural design standards in the parks to influence and encourage the development of parks consistent with the Park Master Plan. As applied to the park system, a design standard specifies the physical and spatial attributes of park buildings, structures and similar features. The standards defined through this plan are intended to be general in nature and focus on themes and overarching principles. Design and architectural consideration will need to be given to each individual structure as the park system develops. Design standards are defined descriptively and illustratively. For efficiency, the illustrations are clustered together. Not everything in each illustration is applicable to any one standard or any combination of the standards. Some illustrations will cover more than one standard. Buildings Buildings should be compatible and complimentary to the buildings already constructed in an existing park and should incorporate materials, form, color and character of the buildings shown in the images to follow. Exterior materials shall consist of natural brick, stone glass and metal. Roofs shall be pitched and be constructed of standing seam metal. Colors shall be earth tones and blend into the natural surroundings. Roof colors shall be black, brown or dark green. 39 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan Materials and Colors Roof and Style December 22, 2005 Roof and Style Materials and Style Lighting Lights provided in parks shall be consistent with the lights depicted in the following pictures. The city standard will be black in color and shall include a non-glare type fixture. Poles shall be painted black and include banner arms where recommended by the city. Lighting shall be provided for all parking areas where facilities can be used past daylight hours. The city may require interior safety lighting within Neighborhood and Community Parks. This will need to be reviewed on a case by case basis by the Park and Recreation Committee. 40 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Park Benches Park benches shall be consistent with the benches shown in the following images. The benches are constructed of Teak wood. Benches should be secured to a hard surface using a molly type fastener on all legs. Benches should be located throughout all parks. Benches should be installed near play ground areas, sports courts (tennis, volleyball and basketball), as part of a scenic overlook or natural amenity and along trails within the park system. Wood Bench Metal Bench Signage All new parks shall include a sign indicating the name of the park. Signs shall be constructed to match the existing park signs designed and installed by the city in existing parks. Signs shall be located along the public streets where possible and at all major entrances into a park from a public street. Signs should be lighted for all parks that have facilities that stay open beyond regular daylight hours. Lighting shall be screened so that there is no glare spilled onto adjacent roadways or residential areas. An example of an existing park sign is shown below. 41 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan C. December 22, 2005 Park Design and Maintenance Standards Design Parks design will vary considerably from site to site due to existing features, road layout and the overall design of new developments. Parks shall be laid out in an orderly and well thought out manner so that all features have accessibility from a public street and or public trail/sidewalk. All parks should be designed so that they become a prominent feature within a development and are positioned to have at least one side on a public street. Community Parks should have three (3) points of public access/frontage with at least two (2) allowing vehicular access. Neighborhood Parks should have two (2) points of public access with at least one (1) allowing vehicular access. Mini Parks should have one (1) point of public access. The aforementioned minimums may not be necessary or possible if the parks are located directly adjacent to a major amenity such as a lake, pond, wetland or similar natural feature. Off-street parking shall be incorporated into Neighborhood Parks, Community Parks, Large Urban Parks and Sports Complexes. The number of parking spaces shall be determined by the type of equipment and facilities incorporated into the park (see parking standards). Trails shall connect all features within a park to each other including parking and to the surrounding trails and or sidewalks that lead into the park. Trails shall conform to the design standards established within this plan. Where practical and justified by level of use, all active use parks should include the following elements: Security lighting in parking areas and, where needed, on trails Drinking fountains Portable toilets Benches, bicycle racks, picnic tables Visible and safe pedestrian access via public streets, trails and sidewalks Internal trails between activity areas Landscaping, including shade, evergreen and ornamental trees Maintenance and Replacement See Field Design and Maintenance and Replacement Standards. D. Field / Court Design, Maintenance and Replacement Standards Design The standards for recreational and athletic facilities are expressed in many ways. These standards are compiled from numerous sources and range from rigid dimensions to 42 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 suggestions derived from experience. Adherence to standards assures the user of continuity in their experience, regardless of the location. Conversely, the design needs to be sensitive to necessary adjustments in the standards as demanded by site specific conditions and budget. Development of fields and courts should consider spectator seating, orientation and distance from parking and safety fencing. Consideration of these items will be based on the site specific design and will need to be reviewed independently for each faculty developed or redeveloped. Fields design should meet the standards established in Figures 4-8. Maintenance and Replacement Fields shall be maintained in a neat and orderly fashion and in accordance with the following guidelines: Description: A facility that is mostly active. These facilities consist primarily of athletic playing fields. Monitored: Regularly for litter and debris, when in season. Cutting Height: 2 ½” to 3 ½” will be maintained. Fertilization/ Herbicide: Spring and fall, the City will fertilize in the spring and will not spray herbicide during the school year and will always notify the school in writing (2) two weeks prior to any application. Irrigation: With automatic system as needed. All systems will be maintained by the City including the system in the school parking lot and around the school building. Ag lime: Maintained within 1” of grass. Infields: Playing fields are dragged and groomed as needed. Fencing: Backstops and fencing will be maintained in a safe and useable manner. Resting of Fields: Periodically fields will be taken out of service in order to undertake necessary turf reestablishment. 43 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Tennis / Basketball courts should be maintained in a safe and “useable condition”. General maintenance such as crack sealing and net replacement should be performed regularly throughout the life of the court. The city should visually inspect the court every year and document the findings. Courts with large cracks or uneven surfaces that could cause an unsafe playing condition should be improved at by performing the required maintenance or replacement. E. Equipment Design, Maintenance and Replacement Standards Design Optimal playground designs will provide a play environment that offers opportunities for development of motor skills, make believe, building, competitions and solitary activities. Activities that are linked together so that many children can use them simultaneously are generally preferred to isolated apparatus. Play structures and activities are typically divided into two primary age categories. Equipment should offer separate opportunities for 2-5 year olds and 6-12 year olds. Playgrounds should meet ADA accessibility requirements. Playgrounds should be designed in a manner which allows supervisors/parents to watch multiple children playing on multiple structures. Swings should be separated from the other spaces via a walk or other natural or constructed barrier delineating the space. Benches and or other seating areas should be liberally provided throughout the playground area. Trash receptacles should be located at every playground. Shade trees shall be installed to provide shade for sitting and should screen hot southern sunlight from equipment. The city’s standard surfacing is 12” of an ADA approved hardwood mulch (various vendors). Safety measures shall be the most important consideration when designing playgrounds. All equipment manufactures provide safety (clear) zone dimensions for each piece of equipment. These standards should be considered minimums when designing the playground. After determining the use zone of each piece of equipment, at least eight (8) feet between clear zones and hard surfaces should be allowed. Equipment should vary from playground to playground so that different play opportunities are offered throughout the city. Swings should be provided at every playground developed in the system and include toddler as well as ADA approved swings. The city has historically used equipment consistent with that already existing in the city playgrounds. This consistency aids the city when it comes to inspecting equipment, general maintenance and replacement of parts. The following images are examples of equipment used in existing playgrounds: 44 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Typical Playground Toddler Play Area (2-5 yrs.) 45 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Typical Swing Area Maintenance and Replacement The Park Department will chart the maintenance by annually completing a safety inspection of each playground. The safety inspection will identify general maintenance and replacement needs for each piece of equipment. The following standards are general and provide a reference guideline. F. Every year – Visually inspect equipment and fill out safety audit form Twenty (20) years – Replacement is typically required at this point; however it will vary from site to site. Trail Design, Maintenance and Replacement Standards Design All new trails constructed in the city will be paved bituminous with a minimum width of 8 ½ feet. Regional trails shall be a minimum of 12 feet in width with surfacing to be determined by the city at the time of development. When laying out a new trail in the system the first step will be to identify the origin and destination points. The trail route shall then be designed based on the type of trail needed, existing topography, subdivision design, natural amenities and location of existing and proposed roadways. The city will develop both on street and off street trails within its system. On street trails shall provide for a direct route between the origin and destination points. Off street trails should be designed to carefully integrate aesthetic and natural features into the route. Special consideration should be given to key views, high quality woodland areas, lake and water frontage and wetland complexes. 46 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Trails shall be designed to meet the established engineering specifications adopted in the City of Victoria Standard Details and Specifications. These standards are updated on a frequent basis and should be referenced to ensure that the current specification is being followed. The specifications outline the trail construction section, trail location and setbacks from streets and wetlands, required drainage measures and trail slope parameters for both horizontal and vertical curves. The city will work with new developments to ensure that the trails proposed meet the established design criteria and are routed so that all necessary connections are made and future connections can be made with ease. Maintenance and Replacement Trails will need to be regularly maintained by the city to ensure enjoyment and use for future generations of residents. Trails that are constructed based on the city standards should have an approximate live span of twenty (20) years. The actual number of years that a trail will last varies from trail to trail. The city should establish a trail maintenance and replacement plan so that adequate funding is allocated for the required maintenance and replacement of existing trails. In general, when trails are in maintained and kept in a safe and “useable” condition, they offer a variety of recreational opportunities to the residences. Trails that are not maintained and fall into an unsafe condition (i.e. cracks, uneven surfaces, the appearance of loose gravel or sub base), should be brought up to a “useable” standard. The following standards are general and provide a reference guideline. G. Every year – Inspect Trails Seven (7) years – Seal Coat and/or Crack Seal Twenty (20) years – Reconstruction Landscape Design, Maintenance and Replacement Standards Design Detailed landscape design will vary from park to park and should be determined on a park by park basis. There are, however, some elements that can be carried throughout all of the parks in the park system. These elements should be incorporated into the park plans where appropriate. Shade trees should be the primary form of landscaping within all parks in the city’s system. Shade trees shall be of a variety that is consistent with those identified in the city’s zoning ordinance. Flowering ornamental trees and evergreen trees should be integrated into the landscape to add seasonal interest. Evergreen trees and shrubs can be used for screening and buffering between non compatible uses. 47 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Maintenance and Replacement Trees, shrubs and ornamental landscape areas within the parks will need to be routinely maintained by the city. This will include regular annual pruning and fertilizing. Maintenance and replacement will be done as needed. Natural woodland areas will require regular maintenance in an effort to reduce and prevent non-native invasive species from taking hold. The city should visually inspect all woodland areas within the park system to determine the quality and possible degradation of a particular area. Following inspection a maintenance plan should be put together that will address each area in need on an on-going basis. Below is a list of landscape improvements and maintenance objectives which should be considered by the city in all new and existing parks. Managing pond and wetland edges with native buffer vegetation. Managing exotic and invasive plant species. Providing weed control (this may include periodic mowing and or burning). Replacement of existing turf areas with native plantings to establish meadows, prairies, and wetlands. Maintaining and improving views to ponds and vistas. 48 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 IX. Implementation and Prioritization A. Priority / Phasing of Park Development The Master Plan provides a general framework of ideas, standards, concepts and recommendations to guide the future development of Victoria’s park system. The next step will be to translate the Park Master Plan into: Cost Estimates Priorities Capital Improvement Program Implementation Strategy The Master Plan begins to assign a conceptual order of importance and identifies the first priorities for improving the system. It provides a framework for short-term decision making and long-term planning and should be revisited during planning and capital budgeting discussions. Elements of the Master Plan will need to be implemented on a coordinated basis. Development or redevelopment of all parks will require careful consideration by the city. It will become paramount for the city to balance the programming and development of all new and existing facilities so that the desired level of service standards are consistently achieved throughout the life of this plan. A fixed mechanism to ensure this balance is not provided by this plan. The Park and Recreation Committee will need to review all plans for new development and redevelopment to ensure proper programming and level of service standards are realized. The Master Plan is based on projected growth of the city which is estimated by several sources. The city does not control the rate or timing of the development of private property. Development of new parks and facilities is based on unknown variables which makes implementation and prioritization of this plan more complex. Standards, ideas and recommendations in this plan provide tools for the city to use while establishing priorities and implementation strategies. Within the next three (3) years the city should focus on updating and developing existing parks within the system to bring them up to standard and cure any deficiencies identified through this Plan. Update and development of the existing system cannot come at the expense of developing the new system concurrent with new development. The city will need to balance the development of the total system so that the Park Master Plan can be completed. Prioritization of new park development or redevelopment of existing parks should be based on the following criteria which are listed in order of importance: Construction of infill trails based on the priorities established in this plan. 49 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Construction of new trails which will connect to existing trails to create loops or links in the trail system. Improvements to existing parks and facilities that will bring the city into closer to compliance with the adopted level of service standards. Development of existing Neighborhood Parks with facilities to meet the adopted level of service standards. Development of new Neighborhood Parks simultaneously with new residential development. This will include development of new facilities within the parks to meet the adopted level of service standards. Development/acquisition of land for Community Parks. Project opportunities come from many sources, including many that are unforeseeable. While the Master Plan identifies a prioritization of projects from park updates to Big Ideas, developers, residents, government agencies and other groups may present opportunities. Projects and development opportunities for the park system that are not included in the Master Plan can generally be prioritized using the following criteria: B. Is the improvement/concept aligned with the priorities of the community? Is the improvement/concept already on the project list? Does the improvement/concept have documented support of the community, business leaders and city government? Does the improvement/concept serve a broad cross-section of the community? Is the improvement/concept consistent with the nature and goals or the Park Master Plan? Are there adequate funds available to develop and implement the idea? Will there be adequate funds to maintain the facility once developed? Priority of Big Ideas As previously stated in the Plan, the Big Ideas are those pieces that when thoroughly integrated will form a holistic plan. Big Ideas as expressed by their name are “big” and will require further study by the City. This may be done on an idea by idea basis tackling one at a time. The Park and Recreation Committee will be charged with the spearheading the task of forming implementation strategies for each idea. Implementation of the Big Ideas will require both public and private commitment. In many cases, a cooperative 50 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 effort will be necessary. Thus, implementation is not automatic and will require the conscious effort and proper timing consistent with physical conditions, economic opportunities and financial capability of the City and private sector. Synthesizing the information gathered through the planning process, the input of the City Council, Planning Commission, Park and Recreation Committee and input provided by residents and stake holders, has lead to the prioritization of the Big Ideas. Big Ideas are listed in order of priority by the city. Big Ideas 1. Trail Connectivity 2. Large Urban Park 3. Waterfront Park 4. Green Ribbon System 5. Urban Town Square 6. Lake Tamarack Park Preserve 7. Victoria’s Gateways 8. Sports Complex C. General Timeline of Trigger Points for Big Ideas Actual timeframes for the initiation and development of the big ideas is difficult to formulate due to the many variables that affect development. In order to organize the ideas into a more tangible information, the city has established trigger points that when reached signify the necessity to begin the development of these ideas. The population indicated in the following summaries refers to the actual population when the idea is completed. Trail Connectivity Timeframe: 0-15 years Trigger Point: Without delay Population: N/A Funding: New development, general funds and grants Comments: Trails can be constructed at the time that conditions allow. Infilling the existing trail system should be completed as soon as possible so that the growth of the overall system can move forward 51 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 without major gaps. There will always be pieces within the trail system that cannot be developed in sync due to the unknown timeframe and lack of timing control of new development and subdivisions. Large Urban Park Timeframe: 2-7 years Trigger Point: 50% of population when completed (7,500) Population: 15,000 Funding: Funding source will need to be identified Comments: Large Urban Parks will require the acquisition of a large tract of land and therefore the process to develop these parks should be commenced well ahead of the intended completion time. For this reason it is recommended that the city begin the process of devising an implementation strategy within the next two (2) years Waterfront Park Timeframe: 0-5 years Trigger Point: Without delay Population: 10,000 Funding: Park dedication requirements Comments: Opportunities for Waterfront Parks will vary based on the development or subdivision of land adjacent to water bodies. This plan identifies two (2) opportunities for the development of Waterfront Parks. Additional opportunities may present themselves as development continues. The city should look to develop a Waterfront Park concurrent with the development of property around the body of water. Green Ribbon System Timeframe: 0-15 years Trigger Point: Without delay Population: N/A Funding: New development, park dedication requirements Comments: The Green Ribbon System is that component of the Park Master Plan which ties all other components together. Pieces of this system have already been developed. The Green Ribbon System will require the preservation and acquisition of the corridor as new property is subdivided for development. Through the city’s planning process this system can be acquired and developed in accordance with this plan. 52 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Urban Town Square Timeframe: Trigger Point: 0-5 years Phase II of the Downtown Redevelopment, Development of the Urban Node located at CSAH 11 and CSAH 10 Population: N/A Funding: Park dedication requirements Comments: There are two proposed Urban Parks identified within this plan. The first is located in the existing urban node in downtown Victoria. This area is currently being studied for redevelopment. It is imperative that an Urban Town Square be incorporated into the Phase II development plan so as not to miss this opportunity. The second is proposed to be located at the intersection of CSAH 11 and CSAH 10 in the future annexation area of Laketown Township. The acquisition and development of this square will need to occur simultaneously with the development. Lake Tamarack Park Preserve Timeframe: 0-10 years Trigger Point: Development/Subdivision of Land Surrounding Lake Population: N/A Funding: New development, park dedication requirements Comments: Development of this Park Preserve will require the cooperation of private and public land owners. The city will need to acquire and preserve the land necessary for creating this preserve at the time of development. The city has acquired some land through park dedication for this preserve. Victoria’s Gateways Timeframe: 0-15 years Trigger Point: Funding Population: N/A Funding: Funding source not identified Comments: Development of Victoria’s Gateways will need to be done when funding for this improvement becomes available. There are gateways identified within the existing city limits that should become the priority. The city will need to study the location, land acquisition and development costs in order to better understand the scope of this idea. Development of future Gateways should be done simultaneously with the development of the land. 53 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Sports Complex Timeframe: 0-15 years Trigger Point: 15,000 Population: 20,000 Funding: Park dedication, additional sources (i.e. user fees) Comments: The city surveyed established communities in the metropolitan area to understand the timeframe for the development of this type of facility. This type of facility was generally constructed in established communities when the cost could be absorbed by the city. It is recommended that the city prepare a strategy to acquire land early on in the process and prior to the need to construct the facility. This will reduce the cost to construct the facility in the future. 54 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan X. APPENDIX A. Background December 22, 2005 a. The City of Victoria and Laketown Township adopted an Orderly Annexation agreement in December, 1976. b. The first Comprehensive Plan was adopted by the Victoria City Council on June 2, 1983. This plan was primarily a land use plan. c. The second Comprehensive Plan was adopted on April 5, 1993 and was titled the 1992-2010 Comprehensive Plan. i. The 1992 Plan established 11 goals that have essentially stayed the same throughout the last 12 years. ii. The 11 goals are as follows: 1. Identity – Preserve small town rural qualities while allowing development. 2. Environment – Protect lakes, wetlands, woods, parks and wildlife, and use these amenities to attract development. 3. Downtown – Redevelop for prime retail, service, office, medical and entertainment. 4. Industrial Park – Facilitate redevelopment by establishing an Industrial Park and attract favorable (tax) development. 5. Transportation – Promote functional and aesthetic improvements including landscaping, pedestrian and bike facilities. 6. Recreation – Take advantage of the parks and natural qualities and provide recreation serving the varying needs of the Community. 7. Services – Establish/maintain a balance between extending services and ability to pay. 8. Fiscal – Maintain or improve fiscal condition; have a stable tax level relying on new growth to fund public costs. 9. Community Cohesion – Achieve cohesiveness by linking the Community and improving communications. 10. Quality Development – Require development to be of high quality (design and material) and achieved on a planned basis. 11. Annexation – Shall be orderly, fiscally sound and property annexed to be fairly treated relative to taxes and services. d. The third Comprehensive Plan was adopted on November 12, 1998. This plan was titled the 1998-2020 Comprehensive Plan. 55 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 i. The 1998 Plan was truly an update to the previously adopted 1992 Plan. The 12 goals identified through the 1992 Plan remained unchanged. The 1998 Plan was developed following a series of long range planning meetings held by the Planning Commission and City Council in 1996 and 1997. ii. The proposed land uses in the 1998 Plan remained mostly unchanged from the 1992 Plan. e. Development Moratorium i. The city of Victoria placed two development moratoriums in place during the last 10 years. The first was enacted in 1997 and the second in 2000. The total length of the moratoriums was approximately two years. The moratoriums allowed the city to complete vital land use plans, utility plans and update the City Ordinances. B. Related Studies The City of Victoria has undertaken many planning studies during the last 15 years that have become the foundation for the Comprehensive Plan. The studies that have been completed by the city are as follows: a. East Side Focus Study 1. Adopted December 19, 1996 by the Victoria City Council. 2. Prepared by SRF Consulting and involved property owner interviews, outside agency input and a public information meeting. b. Downtown Redevelopment Plan 1. Adopted November, 1996 by the Victoria City Council. 2. Involved many Downtown Committee Meetings, presentations by Ernst Associates, Thibault Associates, interviews of the downtown property owners and several public information meetings. 56 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 c. Conservation Subdivision Design 1. Adopted in January, 1997 by the Victoria City Council. 2. Prepared by Thibault Associates in conjunction with the Planning Commission and City Council. Several property owners were involved with the study. d. West Side Focus Study 1. Reviewed and approved by the City Council on November 17, 1998. 2. Prepared by Thibault Associates and involved field visits, discussions and meetings with property owners, analysis and preparation of concept plans and presentation of the concept plan to the Council and Planning Commission. e. Comprehensive Sewer System Plan 1. Reviewed and approved by the City Council on July 1, 2002. 2. Prepared by TKDA and involved the input of the Victoria City Council, Planning Commission and outside agencies such as the Metropolitan Council. f. Comprehensive Water System Plan 1. Reviewed and approved by the City Council on August 30, 2002. 2. Prepared by TKDA and involved the input of the Victoria City Council, Planning Commission and outside agencies such as the Metropolitan Council. g. South Sub Area Plan 1. Reviewed and approved by the City Council in December, 2002. 2. Prepared by SRF Consulting and involved interviews of the 48 property owners, meetings with Laketown Township Officials, input of the Victoria City Council, Planning Commission and outside agencies, several public information meetings and a public hearing in front of the Planning Commission. 57 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 h. Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR) 1. Reviewed and approved by the City Council on March 4, 2004. 2. Prepared by DSU, Inc., Westwood Professionals, Applied Ecological, The 106 Group and Braslou Associates, and involved the input of the Victoria City Council, Planning Commission through several meetings, many outside agencies and two public information meetings with the Planning Commission and City Council. i. Master Plan 2003 1. Reviewed and approved by the City Council on December 18, 2003. 2. Prepared by DSU, Inc. and involved the input of the Victoria City Council, Planning Commission, property owners and or parties with land interests in the study area, outside agencies such as School District 112, and several public information meetings. j. Water Resource Management Plan 1. Reviewed and approved by the City Council in May, 2004. 2. Prepared by TKDA and involved the input of the Victoria City Council and outside agencies such as the Minnesota PCA and the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District. k. Carver County/Victoria/Laketown Township/Waconia Transportation Study 1. Reviewed by the Planning Commission and City Council on October 19, 2004. 2. Prepared by SRF Consulting and involved the input of the Victoria Planning Commission, City Staff, Carver County Staff, Waconia Staff and the Laketown Township Board Members. l. 2004 Comprehensive Plan Addendum 58 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 1. The 2004 Comprehensive Plan is again an Addendum to the previously adopted 1998 Comprehensive Plan. The primary purpose of the addendum is to create a more accurate projection of the future population of Victoria. The need for this update has been created primarily by the pace of growth within this region. The city and the Metropolitan Council have realized that the population projected through the 1998 Comprehensive Plan was going to fall short. It was identified that a new projection was necessary. The new projection caused the overall population in the city to nearly triple by the year 2020. 2. The previously mentioned Goals defined in the 1992 and 1998 Comprehensive Plan are still valid and were incorporated into the current plan amendment where applicable. 59 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan C. December 22, 2005 Community Survey Survey Instrument Parks and Recreation Park User Survey Conducted by City of Victoria, Minnesota Parks and Recreation Department 8475 Kochia Lane Victoria, MN 55386 (952) 443-3140 March 2004 60 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 2003 PARKS & RECREATION USER SURVEY 1. In which of the following leisure activities do you or others in your household participate regularly? Check all that apply. Art/Crafts 141 Festivals 10 Hobbies 84 Baseball 95 Fishing 144 Ice Skating/Hockey 110 Basketball 120 Fitness/Aerobics 178 In-Line Skating 71 Biking 228 Football 40 Picnics 116 BMX Racing 3 Golf 203 Play Parks 133 Camping 85 Gymnastics 33 Racquetball 33 Dance 59 Hiking 121 Skateboarding 35 Do not participate in any activities 2 Softball 58 Swimming 182 Tennis 75 Walking/Jogging 309 Weight Training 158 Visit Nature Reserves156 2. For each of the following functions performed by the City of Victoria, please indicate if you feel the City is doing an excellent, good, fair, or poor job. a. Providing places for quiet enjoyment of the outdoors ٱExcellent 44 ٱGood 147 ٱFair 79 ٱPoor 27 ٱDon’t Know 46 ٱPoor 3 ٱDon’t Know 19 b. Providing places for enjoyment of active sports ٱExcellent 56 ٱGood 183 ٱFair 79 c. Providing places for indoor recreation and fitness activities ٱExcellent 57 ٱGood 185 ٱFair 67 ٱPoor 6 ٱDon’t Know 23 ٱPoor 4 ٱDon’t Know 33 d. Operating parks and facilities that are safe ٱExcellent 45 ٱGood 189 ٱFair 44 e. Operating parks and facilities that are clean/well-maintained ٱExcellent 42 ٱGood 193 ٱFair 59 ٱPoor 9 ٱDon’t Know 27 95 ٱPoor 18 ٱDon’t Know 81 ٱPoor 36 ٱDon’t Know 96 ٱPoor 28 ٱDon’t Know 57 4 ٱDon’t Know 47 f. Managing tax dollars efficiently ٱExcellent 23 ٱGood 102 ٱFair g. Allocating resources fairly to different areas of the City ٱExcellent 15 ٱGood 119 ٱFair 85 h. Providing natural area for wildlife (habitat) ٱExcellent 35 ٱGood 157 ٱFair 74 i. Maintaining the urban forest (along trail system) ٱExcellent 31 ٱGood 162 ٱFair 72 ٱPoor j. Managing natural resources wisely (e.g. water conservation) ٱExcellent 12 ٱGood 83 ٱFair 101 ٱPoor 5 ٱDon’t know 77 61 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 3. Using a five-point scale where “1” means “Very Satisfied” and “5” mean “Very Dissatisfied”, please indicate your overall satisfaction with the availability of the following types of recreational PROGRAMS in the City of Victoria by circling the corresponding number Satisfaction Level A. B. C. D. E. F. G. H. I. J. K. L. M. N. O. P. Q. R. S. T. U. V. W. X. Adaptive/special Olympics Adult Aquatic Fitness Programs Adult Exercise/Fitness Classes Adult Open Hockey Adult Swim Lessons Adult Sport Leagues After School Programs City Wide Special Events Family Open Hockey Golf Programs Open Gym Open Ice Skating Other senior Programs (trips, Arts/crafts, music classes, etc.) Preschool Programs Recreation Classes Senior Exercise Programs Senior Sports Leagues Soccer Programs Summer Recreation Programs Summer Sports Camps Teen Programs Youth At Risk Programs Youth Sports Programs Youth Swim Programs 18 16 1 25 1 23 17 1 10 18 1 16 1 16 19 1 29 1 22 15 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 5 10 62 47 25 6 25 65 48 33 61 45 18 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 15 26 86 50 32 55 49 85 53 51 59 55 47 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 7 32 31 16 23 21 24 28 14 19 20 20 10 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 11 74 14 14 53 15 16 10 11 19 8 10 20 Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know 242 217 108 137 173 163 159 124 148 134 113 132 188 19 1 10 15 13 19 19 16 16 14 17 15 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 32 33 14 12 26 30 25 10 4 31 6 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 30 53 21 20 36 36 39 26 21 29 14 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 17 14 9 5 25 18 19 19 13 20 38 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 6 1 8 15 14 13 11 18 16 36 42 Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know 168 164 195 207 172 136 176 187 188 160 217 4. Which FOUR of the four programs listed above are most important to the members of your household? (Please write in the letters below for your 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th choices using the letters from the list in question #3 above.) ___C_ 1st __C-K_ 2nd __S__ 3rd ___0__ 4th 5. Please CHECK ALL the reasons that keep you or other members of your household from using Victoria Parks and Recreation facilities more often. (1) Parks do not contain the facilities we need. 112 (6) Fees are too expensive. 82 (11) The City does not have quality recreational programs. 32 (2) Facilities do not have the equipment. 68 (7) Facilities are not wellmaintained. 14 (12) We are too busy or not interested. 68 (3) Security is insufficient. 2 (8) Members of my household use (13) Rules are to restrictive. facilities in other communities. 100 10 (4) Hours of operation are not convenient. 31 (9) Poor customer service by staff. 4(14) Not enough trees/shade. 18 62 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 (5) The location of the City (10) I do not know where the City. (15) None of the above. 49 facilities is not close to my home. facilities are located. 58 34 6. Using a five-point scale where “1” means “Very Satisfied” and “5” means “Very Dissatisfied”, please indicate your overall satisfaction with the availability of the following types of recreational FACILITIES in the City of Victoria by circling the corresponding number. Also, please indicate if you or other members of your household have participated in City programs during the past two years by circling “yes” or “no”. Satisfaction Level A. B. C. E. F G. H. I. J. K. L. N. O. Q. R. S. T. U. V. Basketball/Softball Fields 1 40 Soccer Fields 1 39 Skate Parks 1 23 Municipal golf Courses 1 23 Indoor Skating Rink 1 83 Skate Park 1 26 Indoor Gym and Fitness Space 1 46 Play Equipment 1 16 Playgrounds for Children 1 15 Picnic Facilities/Shelters 1 21 Walking and Biking Trails 1 37 Neighborhood Parks 1 27 Large Multi-use Parks for Both Active and Passive Recreation 1 19 P. Urban Fishing Lakes (Tamarack) No 177 Community Gardens 1 11 Community Recreational Centers 1 24 Senior Recreational Centers 1 4 Basketball 1 15 Fitness Center 1 28 Drop In Daycare 1 8 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 59 26 22 62 40 26 47 34 38 46 48 45 Yes 152 Yes 73 Yes 80 Yes 121 Yes 103 Yes 91 Yes 177 Yes 141 Yes 167 Yes 136 Yes 240 Yes 197 No 191 No 219 No 196 No 151 No 157 No 150 No 67 No 121 No 129 No 110 No 69 No 93 2 32 3 30 4 20 5 5 Don’t Know 58 Yes 128 1 11 2 23 3 23 4 6 5 3 Don’t Know 87 No 130 Yes 86 2 2 2 2 2 2 No 185 No 177 No 197 No 150 No 133 No 181 3 33 7 23 39 8 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 27 20 19 23 22 16 20 32 30 23 27 31 12 22 11 25 22 7 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 18 20 27 18 15 14 13 23 28 18 14 24 14 13 3 10 7 6 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 3 5 19 17 4 4 3 15 15 14 7 8 Have you participated in this type of program within the last 2 years? 4 5 1 2 4 5 Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know Don’t Know 80 77 59 68 61 70 53 50 48 45 30 41 95 69 98 73 59 104 Yes 61 Yes 142 Yes 45 Yes 108 Yes 137 Yes 38 7. Which FOUR of the facilities listed above are most important to members of your household? (Please write in the letters below for your 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th choices using the letters from the list in question #6 above) __L__ 1st __L_ 2nd __L__ 3rd __L__ 4th 8. If additional funds were available for the Victoria Parks and Recreation Department’s facilities, how would you allocate the funds among the categories of funding listed below? Please rank the following categories 1-7, 1 = 1st choice, 2 = 2nd choice, 3 = 3rd choice, 4 = 4th choice, 5 = 5th choice, 6 = 6th choice, 7 = 7th choice, 8 = 8th choice and 9 = 9th choice. _274__ Improvements/maintenance of existing parks. _250__ Construction of environmental facilities (wildlife areas, nature trails). _263__ Acquisition/development of walking and biking trails. _253__ Development of special facilities (dog parks, water playgrounds, campgrounds, skate parks, etc). _244__ Acquisition of open space areas and areas for preservation. 63 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 _196__ Development of an indoor nature/environmental center. _201__ Additional Neighborhood parks. _183__ Swimming pool (indoor). _191__ Swimming pool (outdoor). _35___ Other, please list.__________________________ 9. Should the Victoria Field House expand the current food menu? Yes_82___ No_214___? 1 64 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan X. December 22, 2005 FIGURES Figure 1 65 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Figure 2 66 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Figure 3 67 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Figure 4 68 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Figure 5 Baseball 69 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Figure 6 Basketball Figure 7 Football 70 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Figure 8 Tennis 71 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Figure 9 72 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Figure 10 73 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Figure 11 74 Victoria – Park, Trails and Open Space Comprehensive Plan December 22, 2005 Figure 12 75
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